Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site.

0108263 License for publishing multimedia online



Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349
Gaoping in N China's Shanxi launches 10th cross-Strait exchange event on culture of Emperor Yan

People's Daily Online) 15:30, May 06, 2025

The 10th cross-Strait exchange event on the culture of Emperor Yan (Shennong), a legendary ancestor of the Chinese nation, is held in Gaoping city, north China's Shanxi Province, on May 5, 2025. (Photo/Shanxi Daily)

The 10th cross-Strait exchange event on the culture of Emperor Yan (Shennong), a legendary ancestor of the Chinese nation, was held in Gaoping city, north China's Shanxi Province, on May 5, 2025.

The event, themed "Worshiping Emperor Yan and Seeking Roots in Gaoping," brought together Chinese descendants both at home and abroad to pay homage to their common ancestor and promote the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

In the morning, local residents, Taiwan compatriots, and overseas Chinese gathered in front of the mausoleum of Emperor Yan to honor their ancestor through traditional ceremonial rites. Worship ceremonies were held simultaneously at Shennong temples across Taiwan, while an online worship platform was launched at the same time.

The event was jointly hosted by the Association for Yan Huang Culture of China and the Association for Yan Huang Culture of Shanxi, and organized by the Gaoping research association for the culture of Emperor Yan.

It included a rich variety of activities such as the Emperor Yan worship ceremony, cultural exchanges, youth programs, women's friendship events, and economic and trade discussions. These activities aimed to further strengthen the bond of kinship between both sides of the Taiwan Strait, enhance the sense of national belonging, identity, and pride, and forge a sense of community for the Chinese nation.

With its rich historical heritage of Emperor Yan, long-standing worship traditions, and a relatively complete cultural system centered on Emperor Yan, Gaoping is recognized as the hometown of Emperor Yan, who is revered by people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Du Mingming)
Hours after the Indian Armed Forces launched operation Sindoor which struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) in early Wednesday hours, the family members of Pahalgam attack have been applauding the armed forces' efforts. Nephew of Pahalgam attack victim, Yatish Parmar, on Wednesday expressed pride in Operation Sindoor. He remarked, "...After 15 days of the incident, the Indian army attacked those terrorists. I take pride in the fact that the Indian Army and PM Modi did what they said..." "I wish more such strikes are carried out and all terror sites are completely wiped out," he further added. Father-son duo, Sumit and Yatish Parmar, were residents of Bhavnagar district in Gujarat. Sumit and Yatish were killed in the Pahalgam terror attack, which occurred earlier last month on April 22 in Jammu and Kashmir. Meanwhile, wife of Shubham Dwivedi, a 31-year-old businessman killed in the Pahalgam terror attack, thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the retaliation. "I want to thank PM Modi for taking revenge for my husband's death," she said, adding, "My entire family had trust in him, and the way he replied (to Pakistan), he has kept our trust alive. This is the real tribute to my husband. Wherever my husband is, he will be at peace today." Operation Sindoor was launched in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 people, including several tourists from Maharashtra. As per sources, the situation was constantly monitored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi throughout the night. All nine targets were successfully struck, sources further added. Indian forces selected the targets with the intent of eliminating top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India. In an official statement, the Ministry of Defence stated, In the early hours of Wednesday, the Indian Army launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. (ANI)
Even as Operation Sindoor was being executed Prime Minister Modi was continuously monitoring the operation through the night. On his direction National Security Advisor Ajit Doval monitored and coordinated Op Sindoor. On Wednesday morning, the Indian Armed Forced launched strikes on nine locations inside Pakistan Occupied Kashmir and Pakistan. These included Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), sources told ANI. The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force jointly carried out the operation, mobilising assets and troops. The strikes on all nine targets were successful. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. "Operation Sindoor," which targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.India's Ministry of Defence was in direct response to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen and injured several others. According to the Defence Ministry, these strikes were carried out in response to the "barbaric" terrorist attack in Pahalgam, where 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were killed. The government said it is committed to holding those responsible accountable. Precision strike weapon systems from all three services, including loitering munitions, were used in the attacks. The coordinates were provided by intelligence agencies, and the strikes were launched entirely from Indian soil. India carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971 successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said, "The world must show zero tolerance for terrorism." In a post shared on X, Jaishankar stated, "The world must show zero tolerance for terrorism. #OperationSindoor." (ANI)
With 'Operation Sindoor' dealing a fierce blow to terror hideouts, India has once again shown its iron resolve against terrorism and separatism. The Indian Army, which has long stood as the shield protecting the wombs of mothers, the wrists of sisters, and the vermilion on their foreheads, commands the support of 140 crore Indians. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav has also thrown his weight behind the Army and the government, underscoring a rare moment of political unity in the nation's fight to safeguard sovereignty. In a post on X, Yadav said, "India, Indians, and Indian Army have never and will never tolerate any form of terrorism and separatism in our country. The Indian Army has every time protected the wombs of mothers, the wrists of sisters, and the vermilion on their foreheads." https://x.com/yadavtejashwi/status/1919929516383744331 Yadav said that people in India believe in truth, non-violence, and peace. "We are people who believe in truth, non-violence and peace. We Indians never do wrong but if someone does wrong to us then we do not tolerate it," he wrote. He further stated that when terrorism threatens the country's unity, integrity, and sovereignty, India knows how to respond together. "If people who foster terrorism attack our unity, integrity and sovereignty then we know how to unite and give a befitting reply. In this fight against terrorism, 140 crore Indians are with the Indian Army and the Government. Long live India! Long live the Indian Army! Jai Hind! #IndianArmy #india #OperationSindoor, " Yadav added on X. RJD MP Sanjay Yadav said, "...The way terrorists killed innocents in Pahalgam, it was necessary to give them a befitting reply. The entire country was demanding such action... In the all-party meeting, everyone said that whatever action our military takes, we will be with them. We are with our army and the government at this time..." Earlier today, the Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation called Operation Sindoor, destroying four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), sources told ANI. The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force jointly carried out the operation, mobilising assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi constantly monitored Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI.The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that the world must show zero tolerance for terrorism. In a post shared on X, Jaishankar stated, "The world must show zero tolerance for terrorism." "Operation Sindoor," which targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir was in direct response to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen and injured several others. (ANI)
Yog guru Baba Ramdev on Wednesday voiced strong support for India's Armed Forces after 'Operation Sindoor', urging the government to reclaim Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) and raise the national flag in Karachi and Lahore. Spiritual leader Sadhguru also extended his blessings and wishes the forces success. Speaking to ANI, Ramdev said, "They killed our innocent civilians and have wiped away the 'sindoor' of our mothers and sisters and hence our Armed forces killed those terrorists under operation Sindoor... Now, our Armed forces should take PoJK back... We should hoist our tricolour in Karachi and Lahore..." Spiritual leader Sadhguru, founder of the Isha Foundation, also voiced his support for the security forces. Taking to X, he wrote, "Wishing Our Forces Safety and Success. Blessings. -#OperationSindoor," offering his prayers for the safety of the personnel involved. Earlier, the Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation called Operation Sindoor, destroying four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was constantly monitoring Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. According to CNN, this was India's deepest strike inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that the world must show zero tolerance for terrorism. In a post shared on X, Jaishankar stated, "The world must show zero tolerance for terrorism." "Operation Sindoor," which targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir was in direct response to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen and injured several others. (ANI)
Odisha Leader of Opposition and BJD chief Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday congratulated the Indian Armed Forces for the success of "Operation Sindoor." Speaking on the operation, Patnaik said, "I have been informed that the Indian Armed Forces have been successful in the operation against terrorists. I congratulate them with all my heart." Patnaik's message adds to the growing support for the Indian Armed Forces after the success of Operation Sindoor. He praised their bravery and said the country stands with them in the fight against terrorism. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also applauded the Indian forces' efforts and said that India has an "unflinching" national policy against terrorism. Kharge took to X and wrote, "India has an unflinching National Policy against all forms of terrorism emanating from Pakistan and PoK. We are extremely proud of our Indian Armed Forces who have stuck terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. We applaud their resolute resolve and courage. Since the day of the Pahalgam Terror Attack, the Indian National Congress has categorically stood with the Armed Forces and the Government to take any decisive action against cross border terror. National Unity and solidarity is the need of the hour and the Indian National Congress stands with our Armed Forces. Our leaders have shown the path in past, and National Interest is supreme for us." Operation Sindoor, which utilised special precision munitions, led to the destruction of nine terror targets in a coordinated strike. Sources revealed that the Indian forces targeted and obliterated four sites in Pakistan, including key locations in Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, while five other targets in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) were also successfully hit. The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force jointly carried out the operation, mobilising assets and troops. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. This was India's deepest strike inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has spoken to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, following the Operation Sindoor, which has been initiated by the Indian Army in response to the ghastly Pahalgam terrorist attack. The Union Home Minister is also constantly in touch with Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha and the Director General of the Border Security Force (BSF). Shah has instructed DG BSF to ensure all safety measures for people living in border areas. Meanwhile, Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha reviewed the situation in the border districts of Jammu and Kashmir this morning. He has directed the District Collectors to shift villagers from vulnerable areas and ensure essential services remain available. "I've also directed the DCs for shifting of villagers from vulnerable areas to safer locations and ensuring boarding, lodging, food, medicare and transportation. We will ensure safety of every citizen. Jai Hind!" Office of Lieutenant Governor (J&K) posted on X. Sinha said that the government was prepared to deal with any eventuality. "Took stock of the situation in border districts of J&K UT with all the senior administrative, police and district officials including DCs of all the border districts. I'm closely monitoring the situation and government is fully prepared to deal with any eventuality," he added. Earlier in the day, Shah asserted that India remains committed to eradicating terrorism from its roots. He praised the Army for initiating 'Operation Sindoor' in response to the ghastly Pahalgam terrorist attack, which claimed the lives of 26 people and injured many. The Union Home Minister said that the Narendra Modi government was resolved to retaliate against any attack on Indian citizens. "Proud of our armed forces. Operation Sindoor is Bharat's response to the brutal killing of our innocent brothers in Pahalgam. The Modi government is resolved to give a befitting response to any attack on India and its people. Bharat remains firmly committed to eradicating terrorism from its roots," Shah posed on X. The precision strikes have been carried out against Pakistan, aimed at its terror infrastructure. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday hailed Operation Sindoor as a powerful response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, describing it as "just the trailer" with the "movie yet to come". Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the armed forces, Shinde emphasised that the operation has delivered justice for the 26 civilians killed in the brutal attack in Jammu and Kashmir. "I thank PM Modi and our armed forces, who have done a terrific job... They have given a befitting reply to terrorists and Pakistan. Yeh toh trailer hain, picture abhi baaki hain (This is just the trailer, the picture is yet to come)," he said. "I welcome the actions being taken under Operation Sindoor. I thank PM Modi for that... Innocent people were killed in Kashmir's Pahalgam in front of their families... Justice has been served to the people of the country," Shinde further said. Eknath Shinde underscored the government's unwavering resolve, adding, "And again I thank PM Modi, and he will not spare Pakistan." He highlighted the symbolic significance of the operation, noting, "Under [PM Modi's] leadership, this Operation Sindoor has taken place and has avenged those mothers and sisters whose 'sindoor' was taken away." The Maharashtra Deputy CM asserted that the strikes, which targeted nine terrorist sites, have garnered international support, with countries worldwide backing India's actions. "Countries from all over the world are supporting it... It is just the beginning," he said. Shinde also issued a stern warning to Pakistan, stating, "Pakistan stands nowhere before India, and if it does something, our armed forces will erase Pakistan from the world's map." Shinde's remarks come on the heels of the successful execution of Operation Sindoor by the Indian Armed Forces. The operation, which utilised special precision munitions, led to the destruction of nine terror targets in a coordinated strike. Sources revealed that the Indian forces targeted and obliterated four sites in Pakistan, including key locations in Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, while five other targets in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) were also successfully hit. The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force jointly carried out the operation, mobilising assets and troops. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. (ANI)
The Pakistan Army continued its series of ceasefire violations by targeting civilian areas in a border village of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday night. Officials said the shelling caused panic among villagers and damaged several houses. Visuals from the scene showed shattered window panes, cracked walls, and debris scattered across the lanes of the village. Residents could be seen trying to salvage what was left of their belongings. According to the Indian Army, three innocent civilians lost their lives after the ceasefire by resorting to unprovoked and indiscriminate firing, including artillery shelling, from across the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB) opposite Jammu and Kashmir. The incident occurred during the night of May 6-7, when Pakistani forces indiscriminately opened fire on civilian areas. The Indian Army stated that it is responding in a "proportionate manner" to the unprovoked aggression. "During the night of 06-07 May 2025, the Pakistan Army resorted to arbitrary firing, including artillery shelling from posts across the Line of Control and IB opposite Jammu and Kashmir. Three innocent civilians lost their lives in indiscriminate firing/shelling. Indian Army are responding in a proportionate manner," the Army said in an official statement. This ceasefire violation came just hours after India conducted precision strikes under Operation Sindoor, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets in total--four inside Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in PoJK--using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Sources confirmed to ANI that Prime Minister Narendra Modi monitored Operation Sindoor throughout the night. All nine targets were successfully hit, the sources added.. According to the Ministry, the strikes were carried out in response to the "barbaric" terrorist attack in Pahalgam, in which 25 Indian citizens and one Nepali national were killed. The government said it is committed to holding those responsible accountable. (ANI)
Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the launch of Operation Sindoor, Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday reviewed the situation in the border districts of Jammu and Kashmir. He has directed the District Collectors to shift villagers from vulnerable areas and ensure essential services remain available. "I've also directed the DCs for shifting of villagers from vulnerable areas to safer locations and ensuring boarding, lodging, food, medicare and transportation. We will ensure safety of every citizen. Jai Hind!" Office of Lieutenant Governor (J&K) posted on X. Sinha said that the government was prepared to deal with any eventuality. "Took stock of the situation in border districts of J&K UT with all the senior administrative, police and district officials including DCs of all the border districts. I'm closely monitoring the situation and government is fully prepared to deal with any eventuality," he added. Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah asserted that India remains committed to eradicating terrorism from its roots. He praised the Army for initiating 'Operation Sindoor' in response to the ghastly Pahalgam terrorist attack, which claimed the lives of 26 people and injured many. The Union Home Minister said that the Narendra Modi government was resolved to retaliate against any attack on Indian citizens. "Proud of our armed forces. Operation Sindoor is Bharat's response to the brutal killing of our innocent brothers in Pahalgam. The Modi government is resolved to give a befitting response to any attack on India and its people. Bharat remains firmly committed to eradicating terrorism from its roots," Shah posed on X. The precision strikes have been carried out against Pakistan, aimed at its terror infrastructure. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
In a significant step forward for education reform, the Government of Tripura, in collaboration with the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) and Labhya Foundation, organized the inaugural Saharsh Utsav at Rabindra Shatabarshiki Bhawan in Agartala. The event, which brought together over 1,400 participants including students, teachers, education officials, and policymakers, highlighted Tripura's pioneering efforts in implementing Social Emotional Learning (SEL) through the Saharsh curriculum. This initiative is a first-of-its-kind statewide SEL program in East and North East India. Inaugurating the event, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha emphasized the importance of emotional intelligence in education. He remarked, "Education must start with the heart," while announcing early findings from a Randomized Control Trial (RCT) on children's well-being, conducted by the Labhya Foundation in partnership with J-PAL. The results showed significant improvements in classroom engagement, empathy, and emotional resilience among students. During the event, the Chief Minister visited the Saharsh stalls, interacting with students and educators. Key highlights of the event included the launch of the Saharsh A3 poster to be displayed in all government schools, the release of the Saharsh Progress Report 2024, and cultural performances by students celebrating diversity and emotional expression. Certificates were also awarded to 100 Saharsh Model School Leaders and State Champions. The Saharsh initiative, impacting over 4 lakh students from grades 1 to 8, integrates mindfulness, empathy, self-awareness, and collaboration into daily classroom activities. As part of the initiative, the Chief Minister also announced the creation of Saharsh Model Schools of Change and the expansion of Bagless Days, which promote experiential learning. With this initiative, Tripura is positioning itself as a national leader in prioritizing children's well-being alongside academic success.(ANI)
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Wednesday cancelled his scheduled visit to Banjar and called an emergency meeting at the state secretariat to review the current situation amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the Indian Army's Operation Sindoor against Pakistan. According to the Himachal Pradesh CMO, in this meeting, the Chief Minister will discuss various topics with senior officials, including security arrangements in the state. Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday met with officials to assess the security measures along the Line of Control (LoC) areas. He instructed the concerned officials to focus on protecting civilians and ensuring quick response. "Held a meeting to assess the security and preparedness along the border/LoC areas. Emphasis laid on safeguarding civilian lives, strengthening infrastructure, and ensuring swift response to any emerging challenges," the Office of Chief Minister (J&K) posted on X. This comes as Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to Chief Minister Abdullah amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, following the Operation Sindoor, which has been initiated by the Indian Army in response to the ghastly Pahalgam terrorist attack. The Union Home Minister is also constantly in touch with Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha and the Director General of the Border Security Force (BSF). Shah has instructed DG BSF to ensure all safety measures for people living in border areas. Meanwhile, Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha reviewed the situation in the border districts of Jammu and Kashmir this morning. He has directed the District Collectors to shift villagers from vulnerable areas and ensure essential services remain available. "I've also directed the DCs for shifting of villagers from vulnerable areas to safer locations and ensuring boarding, lodging, food, medicare and transportation. We will ensure safety of every citizen. Jai Hind!" Office of Lieutenant Governor (J&K) posted on X. Sinha said that the government was prepared to deal with any eventuality. "Took stock of the situation in border districts of J&K UT with all the senior administrative, police and district officials including DCs of all the border districts. I'm closely monitoring the situation and government is fully prepared to deal with any eventuality," he added. The precision strikes have been carried out against Pakistan, aimed at its terror infrastructure. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Air India has announced the cancellation of flights to and from several airports in the country, following a notification from aviation authorities regarding the closure of these airports. The affected stations include Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot, with cancellations valid until 5:29 am IST on May 10. Passengers holding valid tickets for travel during this period will be offered a one-time waiver for rescheduling charges or a full refund for cancellations. Amid ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan following the Indian Army''s precision strikes on Pakistani terror camps, Air India and Air India Express airlines on Wednesday cancelled all flights to and from certain locations in the country till noon today. "In view of the prevailing situation, Air India has cancelled all its flights to and from the following stations - Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh and Rajkot - till 12 noon on 7 May, pending further updates from authorities. Two international flights en route to Amritsar are being diverted to Delhi. We regret the inconvenience caused due to this unforeseen disruption," the post read. Taking to social media X, Air India Express airlines in a post regretted the inconvenience and requested guests to confirm their flight status. "Multiple flights on our network are impacted due to prevailing restrictions. For alerts and notifications on flights, please ensure your contact details are updated on http://airindiaexpress.com/manage-booking," the post read. Meanwhile, Spicejet airlines also issued a flight advisory for the airports in the northern parts of the country. (ANI)
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday praised the Indian Army for 'Operation Sindoor', a targeted military action against nine anti-India terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation was reportedly carried out in retaliation for the terror attack in Phalgam. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Mann wrote, "This fight of militants is against the whole country. We are proud of our Indian Army and our brave army. 140 crore countrymen are associated with the Indian Army. The people of Punjab stand with the country's army for the courage and courage of the soldiers. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat." The chief minister's message came as a strong show of solidarity amid the border tensions and growing support for decisive counter-terror action. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal also expressed his support for the Indian Armed Forces following 'Operation Sindoor'. Lauding the strike, Kejriwal praised the courage of soldiers in their fight against terrorism, noting that 140 crore Indians stand firmly with the armed forces. "We are proud of the Indian Army and our brave soldiers. 140 crore Indians stand with the Indian Army in this fight against terrorism. The courage of the Indian Army is the faith of every citizen. We are all together - united against terrorism. Jai Hind," the AAP national convenor posted on X. Indian forces targeted and obliterated four sites in Pakistan, including key locations in Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, while five other targets in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) were also successfully hit. The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force jointly carried out the operation, mobilising assets and troops. The strikes on all nine targets were successful. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. Meanwhile, three innocent civilians lost their lives after the Pakistan Army violated the ceasefire by resorting to unprovoked and indiscriminate firing, including artillery shelling, from across the Line of Control (Loc) and the International Border (IB) opposite Jammu and Kashmir in the early hours of Wednesday, the Indian Army said. The incident occurred during the night of May 6-7, when Pakistani forces indiscriminately opened fire on civilian areas. The Indian Army stated that it is responding in a "proportionate manner" to the unprovoked aggression. This ceasefire violation came just hours after India's precision strikes at anti-India terror targets under Operation Sindoor. (ANI)
Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) MLC Kavitha on Wednesday congratulated the Indian Army for its achievement in the Operation Sindoor, which was aimed at Pakistan's terror infrastructure. She advocated for unity and standing together as a nation, rising above political ideology. "Today I am really proud that our Indian Army has struck the terror camps in Pakistan and in PoK...I am happy that all those who went for the strikes have returned safely. Today, as a nation, we all should stand together, united, and rise above political ideology. Today, India comes first," Kavitha told ANI. BRS Working President, KT Rama Rao also congratulated the Indian forces for the successful Operation Sindoor. "Saluting the amazing Indian Armed Forces for their precision strikes on terrorist camps in PoK and Pakistan Wishing them more power and strength in completely eliminating terrorist infrastructure," he said Meanwhile, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Qureshi said that the 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday morning. Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targetted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructures. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Meanwhile, during the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of 2008 Mumbai attacks received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. The Foreign Secretary said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of mormalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Abdullah amid escalating tensions. The Union Home Minister is also constantly in touch with Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha and the Director General of the Border Security Force (BSF). Shah has instructed DG BSF to ensure all safety measures for people living in border areas. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
In a strong show of support, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and the Indian Army's decisive action in response to terrorist activities. Speaking to ANI, Yadav said, "The Prime Minister Narendra Modi truly fulfils whatever he says. The whole country is proud of our strong army for giving a befitting reply at the nine terrorist locations in Pakistan..." BJP President Jagat Prakash Nadda shared a firm message on India's approach to terrorism, referring to "Operation Sindoor." In a tweet, Nadda wrote, "India's message on Pahalgam - If you provoke us, we won't back down," and highlighted Prime Minister Modi's words, "Those attacking India's soul will face severe punishment." He added that India is both capable and determined to root out terrorism. BJP President, in his tweet, reiterated India's firm stand against terrorism. Referring to "Operation Sindoor," he highlighted Prime Minister Modi's message that those attacking India will face severe punishment. Nadda emphasised the country's resolve to eliminate terrorism and safeguard its sovereignty. Earlier today, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri along with Col Sophia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh briefed the media about the Operation Sindoor. The Foreign Secretary said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Qureshi said that the 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Meanwhile, during the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of 2008 Mumbai attacks received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. (ANI)
Madhya Pradesh Congress Chief Jitu Patwari on Wednesday hailed the Indian Armed Forces' Operation Sindoor which struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), saying there is an atmosphere of delight across the country and the whole nation is united. The Congress leader further said that the Government of India and Indian Army should trace the hideouts of terrorists who wanted to attack India and eliminate them. "There is an atmosphere of joy across the country. Those who want to mislead the world by spreading terror, want to hit India's forehead, the Government of India and the Indian Army should trace and eliminate them. After the attack (Operation Sindoor) done by our Army in the night, there is an atmosphere of delight in the whole country and I believe that the whole nation is united. Wherever terrorists are hiding and there are seeds of hatred and terror, eradicate them," Patwari told ANI. Meanwhile, reacting to Pakistan's remark post Indian Army's operation, the Congress leader said that they should learn a lesson and their condition is not such that they could stand in front of India. "I believe that they should still learn a lesson. Their economic, social and political situation is not such that they can raise their faces in front of India. As far as the question is concerned, why did it happen; it is because they sowed seeds of hatred and I believe that if anyone would have not disturbed India, then it would not have done. Our citizens were killed by spreading hatred and that terror is being nurtured from your (Pakistan) land. Then, the Indian government and our army have fulfilled their responsibility," he added. Earlier today, the Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation called Operation Sindoor, destroying four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), sources told ANI. "Operation Sindoor," which targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir was in direct response to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen and injured several others. (ANI)
Pritam Baradha, the brother of Bharat Bhushan, who was killed in the Pahalgam terror attack, has expressed full support for the government''s action against terror groups in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor. Pritam said that targeting these terror outfits was the right decision, as they pose a threat to civilians. He added that the government must have done thorough research before taking action, and he trusts their decision. He also sent a message to people supporting terror outfits, saying that today it''s his family affected, but tomorrow it could be theirs. He urged them to stop supporting such activities. Pritam concluded by saying he believes the government made the right decision after careful study and will stand by them. Bharat Bhushan''s father also praised the government for taking timely action against terror elements operating in Pakistan. "We are thinking of this, but after bringing the body of my son, we thought that Modi will take some definite steps to control these terrorist attacks, and definitely the Government of India has done it," said Channaveerappa, father of Pahalgam terror attack victim Bharat Bhushan. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had arranged meetings with the Army, Air Force and Navy and had taken good decisions. "Yesterday night they attacked the nine terrorist camps in Pakistan, and killed many people there, and I heard that there are about 100 people died in this attack, mostly terrorists," he added. Earlier today, the Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation called Operation Sindoor, destroying four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), sources told ANI. The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force jointly carried out the operation, mobilising assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi constantly monitored Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. "Operation Sindoor," which targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir was in direct response to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir''s Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen and injured several others. (ANI)
Tilak Rupachandani, a Pahalgam attack survivor, on Wednesday thanked the Indian Armed Forces and the central government for the execution of Operation Sindoor, which struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). While speaking with ANI, Rupchandani said, " Thanks to the Indian Army. They have taken remarkable action and we are happy with this. Terrorists had killed innocent people there; we had seen it...we had hoped that government would take good action..." Rupchandani, along with his son and wife, was visiting the place when the Pahalgam terror attack occurred in Jammu and Kashmir. The family escaped the site through a narrow exit door and survived the attack. Rupchandani is a resident of Nagpur in Maharashtra. Earlier, wife of Shubham Dwivedi, a 31-year-old businessman killed in the Pahalgam terror attack, thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the retaliation. "I want to thank PM Modi for taking revenge for my husband''s death," she said, adding, "My entire family had trust in him, and the way he replied (to Pakistan), he has kept our trust alive. This is the real tribute to my husband. Wherever my husband is, he will be at peace today." Operation Sindoor was launched in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 people, including several tourists from Maharashtra. As per sources, the situation was constantly monitored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi throughout the night. All nine targets were successfully struck, sources further added. Indian forces selected the targets with the intent of eliminating top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India. In an official statement, the Ministry of Defence stated, In the early hours of Wednesday, the Indian Army launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. (ANI)
Uttar Pradesh Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar and BJP MP Jagdambika Pal have lauded the Indian Army for its successful Operation Sindoor, linking the military action to India's resolve to avenge past terror attacks, including those in Pahalgam, Uri, and Pulwama. Minister Rajbhar thanked the Army for fulfilling national promises made by PM Modi, while Pal highlighted the operation as a strategic revenge for India's fallen soldiers and terror victims. Speaking to ANI,Rajbhar thanked the Army for fulfilling national promises and criticised opposition parties, highlighting that the Army's decisive action was a strong response to their mockery. "I thank the Indian Army for fulfilling the country's wish and the promise of PM Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and HM Amit Shah... This has also given a befitting response to the Opposition parties who were making jokes," he said. Meanwhile, BJP MP Jagdambika Pal has praised the Indian Army's Operation Sindoor, calling it a powerful act of revenge for the Pahalgam terror attack. "Our army's revenge for Pahalgam was such that nine terrorist hideouts were destroyed at once. PM Narendra Modi had promised that to destroy the 'sindoor' of our sisters in Pahalgam." Pal linked the operation to India's broader fight against terrorism, citing past attacks such as 26/11, Uri, Pulwama, and the 2001 Parliament attack. "We will teach not only the terrorists but also their masters such a lesson that they will remember it forever... This is a revenge for the attacks of 26/11, Uri, Pulwama and the 2001 Parliament as well," he added. Earlier today, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri along with Col Sophia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh briefed the media about the Operation Sindoor. The Foreign Secretary said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Qureshi said that the 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Meanwhile, during the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of 2008 Mumbai attacks received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed.(ANI)
Uttar Pradesh Minister Danish Azad Ansari on Wednesday thanked the Indian Army and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for conducting Operation Sindoor that struck terror infrastructure deep inside Pakistan. "On behalf of the country, I thank the Indian Army and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving a strong response to the cowardly terrorist act that took place in Pahalgam," Ansari told ANI. "India has shown that if anyone conspires against India, it will waste no time in giving a befitting response," he added. Earlier today, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Qureshi, said that 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected to prevent damage to civilians and their infrastructure. "The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives," she said. Meanwhile, during the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke, where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. (ANI)
Amid the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the launch of Operation Sindoor in response to the ghastly Pahalgam terror attack, Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Wednesday said that everyone must stand in unison since it was a matter of national security. He said that Congress stands with the Indian government for initiating such an action against Pakistan that aims to dismantle its terror infrastructure. "As a political party, we are with the Indian government in taking this action. We welcome it. It is a question of national security. All of us should be one voice right now. We are with the government and the action taken by them. We have started initiating the civil defence advisories from the Home and Defence Ministry... We have taken special interest in protecting major stations such as power, irrigation, or dams," Parameshwara told reporters here. Meanwhile, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor lauded the government for not allowing Pakistan to expand the conflict since the precision strikes were aimed at identified terrorist bases and launchpads. He said the places mentioned in the press briefing by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had a history of hosting terrorist organisations. "The government has taken care not to give the other side an opportunity to expand the conflict in the sense that they have only attacked identified terror bases and launchpads. The places mentioned in the (defence) briefing have been known to host terrorist organisations like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and Hizbul Mujahideen. We have really got a very responsible and thought-through approach in attacking these places," Tharoor told ANI. He further added that the minimum collateral damage to civilians amid the launch of Operation Sindoor clears India's stand that it wanted to dismantle the terror infrastructure and not "kill individuals". "Attacking at night also minimises collateral damage for civilians. Even the Pakistanis have only claimed three civilians have been killed, which shows that we were dismantling the terror infrastructure and we were not interested in killing individuals," Tharoor said. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Qureshi said that the 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday morning. Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected to prevent damage to civilians and their infrastructure. "The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Nationalist Congress Party-Sharadchandra Pawar (NCP-SCP) MP Supriya Sule has lauded the Indian Army for its "extraordinarily measured" action during Operation Sindoor, describing it as a precise and focused strike against terrorism. Speaking to ANI, Sule said," I am very proud of the Indian army, they have done an extraordinary measured action. I appreciate the statement by the Government of India. They have clearly said that it is a very measured action, and I respect that because this fight is not against any country or any civilians, it is against terrorism..." Sule emphasized that the nation stands united, stating,"We all are together as a nation -- Nation First. I salute the Indian Armed Forces." She also praised the recent press briefing by the armed forces, calling it well-prepared and transparent. "We just saw a press briefing by the Armed Forces; it was drafted well, and everything stated was true. This attack was against terrorism, not civilians. We are firmly against terrorism," she added. Meanwhile, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde hailed Operation Sindoor as a powerful response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, describing it as "just the trailer" with the "movie yet to come". Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the armed forces, Shinde emphasised that the operation has delivered justice for the 26 civilians killed in the brutal attack in Jammu and Kashmir. He also underscored the government's unwavering resolve, adding, "And again I thank PM Modi, and he will not spare Pakistan." He highlighted the symbolic significance of the operation, noting, "Under [PM Modi's] leadership, this Operation Sindoor has taken place and has avenged those mothers and sisters whose 'sindoor' was taken away." Earlier today, the Indian Armed Forces shared details about Operation Sindoor, a targeted strike mission to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. Addressing a press briefing in the national capital hours after the targeted strikes, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh outlined the objectives of the operation and provided details on destroyed terrorist camps. Four of the nine targeted terrorist camps are in Pakistan and the remaining in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.The operation, executed by the Indian Armed Forces, dismantled terror infrastructure linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and Hizbul Mujahideen. Colonel Qureshi detailed the targeted camps, stating that the four terrorist camps destroyed in Pakistan are Bahawalpur, Muridke, Sarjal, and Mehmoona Joya. Operation Sindoor was launched to avenge the Pahalgam attack, attributed to Pakistan-based terrorist groups, including LeT's offshoot, The Resistance Front (TRF). Twenty-six people were killed in the Pahalgam terror attack. The government had said that the perpetrators will face severe punishment. (ANI)
Chairman of the All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council Syed Naseruddin Chishty, on Wednesday praised the Union government and armed forces for Operation Sindoor, emphasising that the strike has avenged the women who lost their "Sindoor" during the April 22 terror attack. Chishty described the operation targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as a powerful response that reflects India's resolve to uproot terrorism. "Today, India has shown its strength. I salute all the military personnel and also thank the government... I thank the PM, as he understands the feelings of the country's people, and he gave a befitting reply to Pakistan," Chishty said. "We will uproot terrorism. Sindoor has a special place in our culture, as married women apply it, but in Pahalgam, many of them have lost it, and today, we have avenged that by Operation Sindoor," emphasising the cultural significance of the operation's name. The Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 people, including tourists, was attributed to Pakistan-based terrorist groups, prompting widespread outrage. Operation Sindoor, launched early Wednesday, targeted nine terror camps, including four in Pakistan and five in PoK, using precision munitions to avoid civilian casualties and military installations, as confirmed by the Indian Armed Forces. The strikes, executed between 1:05 am and 1:30 am, have been hailed as a measured yet firm response, with leaders across the political spectrum and citizens expressing pride in the armed forces. The Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets using special precision munitions in the coordinated operation, destroying four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, Sarjal, and Mehmoona Joya, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. This was India's deepest strike inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
In view of the security preparations in the state after Operation Sindoor, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday directed the Chief Secretary and DGP to conduct mock drills in Uttarakhand. As per the Uttarakhand CMO officials, the Chief Minister further ordered the officials to ensure compliance with all instructions issued to the state governments by the Centre. Earlier, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy also called for an emergency meeting with all officials concerned, at the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) in Hyderabad (Telangana) to review all security preparations post Operation Sindoor. The meeting reviewed all security measures to safeguard major installations and key locations related to the centre, defence and state government. People have been advised to keep vigil but have also been reassured that "the centre and state are working together for their safety". This morning, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also met with officials to assess the security measures along the Line of Control (Loc) areas. He instructed the concerned officials to focus on protecting civilians and ensuring quick response. "Held a meeting to assess the security and preparedness along the border/LoC areas. Emphasis laid on safeguarding civilian lives, strengthening infrastructure, and ensuring swift response to any emerging challenges," the Office of Chief Minister (J&K) posted on X. This comes as Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to Chief Minister Abdullah amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, following the Operation Sindoor, which has been initiated by the Indian Army in response to the ghastly Pahalgam terrorist attack. The Union Home Minister is also constantly in touch with Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha and the Director General of the Border Security Force (BSF). Shah has instructed DG BSF to ensure all safety measures for people living in border areas. Meanwhile, the Indian Armed Forces shared details about Operation Sindoor, a targeted strike mission to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The information was shared in the media briefing consisting of foreign secretary Vikram Misri, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Col Sophiya Qureshi.While speaking to the media, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Qureshi said that the 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targetted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructures. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Meanwhile, during the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of 2008 Mumbai attacks received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. (ANI)
Madhya Pradesh Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President VD Sharma on Wednesday lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indian Army over the successful execution of Operation Sindoor, calling it a historic day for the country and the whole world. Speaking to ANI, Sharma said, "Today is a historic day for India and for the whole world. Bharat Mata Ki jai and Jai Hind are trending today across the nation. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, the successful execution of Operation Sindoor by our Army is appreciated across the country. It is the result of the will power of PM Modi. Those who erased the sindoor of our sisters (referring to killing of Husbands in Pahalgam terror attack) at that time, Amit Shah said that the PM promised to kill the attackers and today the day has come. Our Army destroyed the terror training centers operating in Pakistan and a large number of terrorists have been eliminated. It is a historic day for India. The whole country is standing with PM Modi." "PM Modi has done what the country wanted. Modi hain to mumkin hai (With Modi, it is possible). Our government and PM Modi have zero tolerance against terrorism. A message has been sent globally today that terrorism would not be spared at any cost and if they try to do anything else, then the army and our civil society are ready to respond to it too," he added. Meanwhile, deputy Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Rajendra Shukla extended his wishes to the Indian Army over successfully conducting the operation and said that a befitting reply was delivered. "The might of the Indian Army and the leadership of PM Modi have come to light again. The way the terrorists carried out the cowardly attack in Pahalgam and erased the sindoor (referring to husband) of our sisters, a befitting reply was delivered through Operation Sindoor. The Indian Army deserves congratulations for the successful execution of Air strikes to destroy the nine terror camps. I extend congratulations to the Indian Army and gratitude to PM Modi," Shukla said. "The residents of the country were hoping that a befitting reply would be given under the leadership of PM Modi and action would be taken to eradicate the roots of terrorism. Pakistan has been exposed before the entire world and the whole world is supporting India for this operation. It is indeed a great work done through Operation Sindoor to provide relief to the women (victims of Pahalgam terror attack)," he added. Additionally, Madhya Pradesh Cabinet Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya also commended that the operation conducted by the Indian Armed Forces and said he is proud of the Indian Army. "India has given a message that 'Dilbar Ke Liye Dildaar Hain Hum, Dushman Ke Liye Talwar Hain Hum, Maidan Me Agar Hum Dat Jaaye, Mushkil Hai Ke Peeche Hat Jaayen' (For our beloved, we are devoted lovers, For our enemies, we are a sword. If we take a stand in the battlefield, it is hard to step back. It is a very big message and we salute our Indian Army," Vijayvargiya said. "The Prime Minister of our country again showed that he has a fifty-six inch chest. I congratulate PM Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. We are proud of our Indian army," he added. "Operation Sindoor," which targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir was in direct response to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen and injured several others. (ANI)
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday held a meeting with the Chief Ministers and other concerned government officials of various states, including Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and Rajasthan. The Chief Ministers of Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim, and West Bengal attended the meeting. Lieutenant Governors of the Union Territories of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh were also present. The Chief Secretaries and Director General of Police (DGPs) of the said states were also present in the meeting with Home Minister Shah. This comes amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the launch of Operation Sindoor, under which nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). Shah earlier spoke to JK CM Abdullah amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, following the Operation Sindoor, which has been initiated by the Indian Army in response to the ghastly Pahalgam terrorist attack. The Union Home Minister is also constantly in touch with Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha and the Director General of the Border Security Force (BSF). Shah has instructed DG BSF to ensure all safety measures for people living in border areas. Meanwhile, Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha reviewed the situation in the border districts of Jammu and Kashmir this morning. He has directed the District Collectors to shift villagers from vulnerable areas and ensure essential services remain available. "I've also directed the DCs for shifting of villagers from vulnerable areas to safer locations and ensuring boarding, lodging, food, medicare and transportation. We will ensure safety of every citizen. Jai Hind!" Office of Lieutenant Governor (J&K) posted on X. Sinha said that the government was prepared to deal with any eventuality. Earlier, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Qureshi said that the 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday morning. Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targetted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructures. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Meanwhile, during the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of 2008 Mumbai attacks received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. The Foreign Secretary said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of mormalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Rajasthan Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian Army on Wednesday for Operation Sindoor, which struck nine terror infrastructure sites deep inside Pakistan. Speaking to ANI, Devnani asserted that the Operation's name was chosen as historic revenge for the sisters whose husbands were killed after being asked about their religion in the April 22 Pahalgam attack that claimed 26 lives. "I want to congratulate PM Narendra Modi and the Indian army for Operation Sindoor. The whole country is full of pride. By giving this operation the name 'sindoor', they took historic revenge for the sisters whose husbands were killed after being asked about their religion," he said. Earlier today, Congress leaders lauded the Indian Army's "Operation Sindoor," which successfully destroyed Pakistani terrorist bases and sent a strong message against terrorism. Ashok Gehlot, former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, expressed his solidarity, stating that the Congress Party and the entire nation stand firmly behind the Indian Army and the Government of India. Congress MLA and Rajasthan Opposition Leader Tikaram Jully also backed the Army's action, noting the public's anger over the civilian attack. Earlier today, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Qureshi, said that 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Wing Commander Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected to prevent damage to civilians and their infrastructure. "The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives," she said. Meanwhile, during the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke, where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. (ANI)
Former Union Cabinet Minister and senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Wednesday said that bulldozing the beasts of barbarity and brutality in Pakistan is a "Dharma Yuddha" to protect India and the entire humanit. While talking to reporters in Moradabad, Naqvi said that the strong action against Pakistan, which has become a producer, director, distributor, protector, promoter and peddler of horror show of terrorism, is a stern message and lesson for terror elements across the world. The Indian Armed Forces launched precision strikes against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The attacks were launched in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack which claimed the lives of 26 tourists including one Nepalese citizen. Naqvi said that while India's farsighted policies and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visionary leadership has instilled faith among the people of the country, it has instilled fear among our enemies. Naqvi said that Pakistan considers "sowing seeds of terrorism as its country's cultivation". "Terror trade has become their terrible territory". Naqvi said that while for Pakistan the parameter of national growth is "protecting, producing, promoting terrorism", for India elimination of terrorism is a "national duty". Safety of the country and humanity is the utmost priority of India. The strong and determined action against "creators of cruelty" by the Modi Government reflects audacious and effective measures to demolish and dismantle the "den of terrorists" and their sponsors and protectors. Naqvi said that, "production of terrorism has become a national industry in Pakistan and terrorists have become their national animals", whose protection, security, promotion has become the "national agenda" of Pakistan. Naqvi said that those misusing the Islam as a security cover for terrorism, are "international enemies" of both the Islam and humanity. (ANI)
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami lauded Indian Army's 'Operation Sindoor', which took place early on Wednesday under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. Dhami who attended a felicitation ceremony organized by the Arpit Foundation at Mukhya Sewak Sadan in Dehradun today said that the operation was a response to the Kairana attack, where the Indian Army destroyed terrorist hideouts in Pakistan. He praised PM Modi's leadership, saying India knows how to be friendly but can also defend itself strongly when needed. The Chief Minister highlighted that the fighter pilots involved in the operation were women and asked the audience to applaud their bravery. He reminded everyone that India is a peace-loving nation, guided by its values of treating the world as one family and caring for all beings. However, he made it clear that if anyone attacks India or promotes terrorism, the country will respond firmly. CM Dhami thanked the Arpit Foundation and everyone present for their support and encouragement, and ended by expressing his commitment to make Uttarakhand the best state in the country, seeking the continued blessings and support of all. Meanwhile, the Indian Armed Forces shared details about Operation Sindoor, the targeted strike mission to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The information was shared in the media briefing consisting of foreign secretary Vikram Misri, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Col Sophiya Qureshi. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. During the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of 2008 Mumbai attacks received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. (ANI)
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has convened an emergency informal meeting of senior leaders present in the national capital on Wednesday to discuss the current security situation, party general secreatary KC Venugopal said. Venugopal shared a post on his official 'X' handle and informed about the development. "Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has convened an emergency informal meeting of senior leaders present in Delhi, at 3 PM today at 24 Akbar Road, to discuss the current security situation", Venugopal's post read. Meanwhile, the Government of India has called an all-party meeting on Thursday. "Govt has called an All Party leaders meeting at 11 am on 8th May, 2025 at Committee Room: G-074, in the Parliament Library Building, Parliament Complex in New Delhi," Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said in a post on X. The government had convened an all-party meeting after the Pahalgam terror attack and the opposition parties had expressed their full support to the government for any action against perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack. Addressing a media briefing today on Operation Sindoor in which terror camps were targeted, Foreign Secretay Vikram Misri said Indian intelligence agencies have been monitoring terrorist activities and raised concerns regarding more terrorist attacks in India. "Our intelligence indicated that further attacks against India are impending. Thus, compulsion, both to deter and prevent and hence earlier this morning, India exercised its right to respond to deter such more cross-border terrorism... Our actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible. They focused on dismantling terrorists' infrastructure," he said. A total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed, an Army official said at the media briefing asserting that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructures. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives, the spokesperson said. Some videos of the strikes destroying terror camps were also shown at the briefing held in the national capital today. The Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' early today hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. Twenty-six people were killed in the April 22 terror attack at Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. The government had said that the perpetrators will face severe punishment. (ANI)
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday praised Indian Armed Forces for destroying terror hideouts in Pakistan, calling the action a "back-breaking strike against terrorism." In a post on X, CM Dhami wrote, "Jai Hind... Jai Hind's Army!" "The Indian Army has destroyed terrorist hideouts in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan late last night. Our brave soldiers have once again made the entire nation proud with this back-breaking action against terrorism," CM Dhami said. The Uttarakhand CM also credited the operation to India's strong leadership and said, "This attack on terrorism by India under the able leadership of respected Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji is not only a revenge for the killing of innocent Indians in Pahalgam, but it is also a sign that if anyone challenges the unity, integrity and safety of citizens of our country, then India is capable of giving a befitting reply to them in their home." The Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' early Wednesday, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. At a briefing on Operation Sindoor in which terror camps were targeted, Foreign Secretay Vikram Misri said the terror attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with headshots at close range and in front of their family. "The family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. Misri said that Indian intelligence agencies have been monitoring terrorist activities and raised concerns regarding more terrorist attacks in India. "Our intelligence indicated that further attacks against India are impending. Thus, compulsion, both to deter and prevent and hence earlier this morning, India exercised its right to respond to deter such more cross-border terrorism... Our actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible. They focused on dismantling terrorists' infrastructure," he said. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructures. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives, she said. Meanwhile, the government has convened an all-party meeting on Thursday to brief the political parties on the steps taken by it. The all-party meeting will be held at 11 am in the Parliament Library Building. (ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday and briefed her on Operation Sindoor, in which the Indian Armed Forces launched precision strikes against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan and briefed her about Operation Sindoor," Rashtrapati Bhavan said in a post on X. The government has also called an all-party meeting tomorrow. At a briefing on Operation Sindoor in which nine terrorist camps were targeted, Foreign Secretay Vikram Misri said the terror attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their families. "The family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. Misri said that Indian intelligence agencies had been monitoring terrorist activities and raised concerns regarding more terrorist attacks in India. "Our intelligence indicated that further attacks against India are impending. Thus, compulsion, both to deter and prevent and hence earlier this morning, India exercised its right to respond to deter such more cross-border terrorism... Our actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible. They focused on dismantling terrorists' infrastructure," he said. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructures. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives, she said. Col Sofiya Qureshi showed some videos of the strikes destroying terror camps. The Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' early Wednesday. Twenty-six people were killed in the Pahalgam terror attack. The government had said that the perpetrators will face severe punishment. (ANI)
Former Puducherry Lieutenant Governor and former IPS officer Kiran Bedi on Wednesday applauded the India Armed Forces on successful execution of the Operation Sindoor, which targeted nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Bedi said that the initiative taken was an "action" and not a reaction, and praised the government. While speaking with ANI, Bedi said, " ...9 sites were attacked and 9 of those locations were terror factories, ...Government of India did exactly what they said. This is not a reaction but an action. It was done after a planning of 15 days... This is the capability of government of India..." On Wednesday, the Indian Armed Forces shared details about Operation Sindoor, a targeted strike mission to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The information was shared in the media briefing consisting of foreign secretary Vikram Misri, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Col Sophiya Qureshi. While speaking to the media, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Qureshi said that the 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday morning. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targetted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructures. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Meanwhile, during the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of 2008 Mumbai attacks received training.Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. The Foreign Secretary said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. (ANI)
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Wednesday lauded Operation Sindoor in which Indian armed forces carried out precision strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir in response to Pahalgam terror attack. Sukhu said the operation by armed forces demonstrated the nation's resolve and preparedness to neutralise threats. "The way our forces have carried out this operation makes every citizen of Himachal proud. On this occasion, I want to say that the entire population of Himachal Pradesh stands firmly with the Indian security forces and with the nation," Sukhu told media persons here. "Our state also shares proximity to the Pakistan border through Jammu & Kashmir. We must remain vigilant, not panic, but follow all directives issued by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs," he added. Sukhu said he had issued instructions to all senior officials, police officers, and district administrations ,especially in the border areas, to remain on high alert and enhance surveillance measures. "We have directed that no untoward incident should occur in our border areas. If any hostile action is attempted by an enemy country, we are fully prepared to respond in unity," he said. "We have also discussed how to improve intelligence inputs and strengthen technology. Misinformation or propaganda circulated on social media, often pushed by hostile nations, will be dealt with strictly. We have issued directives on that as well," said Sukhu. He confirmed that mock drills are being conducted in the state to assess preparedness. In light of the current alert, he also postponed his public event scheduled for today in Kullu, where 4,000 to 5,000 people were expected. "I cancelled and postponed my Kullu program today following security advisories against public gatherings. It will be rescheduled for a later date," he added. Sukhu said people of Himachal Pradesh have appreciated the action of Indian forces. "The way the terrorists attacked tourists in Pahalgam, and the fitting reply they received, has been appreciated by the people of Himachal. We salute the action taken by our forces," Sukhu said. "Himachal Pradesh has always been at the forefront in defending the nation. Our brave soldiers have won the highest number of Param Vir Chakras in the country. We know how to stand firm in times of conflict," he added. The Chief Minister assured that district-level decisions, including those concerning schools in border regions, will be made as per evolving security assessment. "We are in constant communication with Superintendents of Police across districts. No new directives have been received yet, but we will act promptly as new guidance comes. District Magistrates in border areas will assess and decide on school operations as required," he said. Twenty-six people died in the Pahalgam terror attack. The government had said that perpetrators will face severe punishment. (ANI)
Rajouri (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], May 7: The lives of residents in border villages in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district have been severely affected following firing and shelling by Pakistan along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Union Territory after the Operation Sindoor. Abdul Husain, a resident of a border village, expressed concern over the lack of adequate bunkers for protection. "Suddenly, firing from across the border happened. It was a terrible night for the people here," he told ANI. "Thirty per cent of the bunkers promised by the government are fully constructed, the rest are not," he added. A woman currently undergoing treatment for bullet injuries said that her house was completely damaged in the firing. "In the early hours, the shelling happened. Our house was completely damaged. I don't know where we will go now," she said. Meanwhile, as a safety measure, all schools and colleges in districts located near the LoC have been closed. The shelling from Pakistan came just hours after India conducted precision strikes on terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) under 'Operation Sindoor,' launched in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. In a post on X, the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG PI) stated, "Pakistan again violates the Ceasefire Agreement by firing artillery in Bhimber Gali in the Poonch-Rajouri area. Indian Army is responding appropriately in a calibrated manner." Heavy shelling from across the border was reported in Mankote, Krishna Ghati and Shahpur sectors in Poonch, Laam, Manjakote and Gambeer Brahmana in Rajouri district in Jammu region and Karnah and Uri sectors in north Kashmir's Kupwara and Baramulla districts. Furthermore, on Wednesday, the Indian Armed Forces shared details of Operation Sindoor, a targeted strike mission aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK. The operation, executed by the Indian Armed Forces, dismantled terror infrastructure linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and Hizbul Mujahideen. (ANI)
Earlier today, Union Minister Amit Shah met with the Chief Ministers and other concerned government officials of various states, including Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan.

The meeting was attended by the Chief Ministers of Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim, and West Bengal. Lieutenant Governors of the Union Territories of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh were also present.

The Union Home Minister is also constantly in touch with Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha and the Director General of the Border Security Force (BSF).

Shah has instructed DG BSF to ensure all safety measures for people living in border areas.

Meanwhile, Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha reviewed the situation in the Jammu and Kashmir border districts this morning.

Late night, in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday morning. Nine terror targets were chosen, and all nine strikes were successful.

Echoing his support to India's Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, earlier, Jammu and Kashmir chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday asserted that India had to respond to what happened in Pahalgam, adding that it is now upto the neighbouring country how much they want to escalate this.

Speaking to ANI, CM Abdullah emphasised that he has not forgotten the Pahalgam attack on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 people. (ANI)
The Delhi High Court on Wednesday reserved the order on a petition filed by British Citizen Christian James Michel, seeking Modification to the bail conditions in the money laundering case linked to the AgustaWestland helicopter deal. Advocate Aljo K Joseph appeared for Christian James stated that Christian James cannot meet the bail surety requirement since he lacks family or friends in India. He requests modifications to secure James' release, stating it's nearly impossible to find an Indian surety. James also seeks changes to the condition requiring him to surrender his passport. Joseph explains that obtaining a UK passport from abroad takes 8 to 12 weeks, making immediate submission impossible. He urges both conditions to be modified for James' bail. The bench of Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma noted that the submission reserved the order on the modification application. Christian James Michel through plea requested for the waiver of the bail condition mandating a surety of Rs 5 lakh. As a foreign national with no familial ties or significant connections in India, he has sought either a modification or removal of the requirement to provide an Indian surety. The same bench on March 4, 2025, granted bail to Christian James Michel in the matter while granting bail to Christian James Michel in the money laundering case, the high court directed him to provide a personal bond and a surety of Rs 5 lakh each, in addition to surrendering his passport to the trial court. Through a plea, James further requested the revocation of the passport surrender condition, stating that his passport has expired and obtaining a new one would take an estimated 4 to 8 weeks. On February 18, the Supreme Court granted bail to Christian Michel James, the alleged middleman in the AgustaWestland chopper scam, stating that "the trial may not be completed in the next 25 years at this pace." Michel was arrested and extradited on December 4, 2018, while the FIR was registered in 2013. The Rs 3,600-crore scam involves the purchase of 12 VVIP helicopters from AgustaWestland. James was extradited from Dubai in December 2018 and subsequently arrested by the CBI and the ED. He is one of the three alleged middlemen under investigation in the case, alongside Guido Haschke and Carlo Gerosa. According to the CBI's chargesheet, the deal signed on February 8, 2010, for the supply of VVIP helicopters worth 556.262 million euros caused an estimated loss of 398.21 million euros (approximately Rs 2,666 crore) to the exchequer. The ED's chargesheet filed against James in June 2016 alleged that he received 30 million euros (about Rs 225 crore) from AugustaWestland. The AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal, during the Congress-led UPA Government and refers to a multimillion-dollar corruption case where money was allegedly paid to middlemen and Indian officials in 2006 and 2007 to purchase helicopters for high-level politicians. Following significant controversy and allegations of corruption, the Government of India ordered an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on February 12, 2013. Subsequently, the ED registered a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in 2014. (ANI)
Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Wednesday extended full support to the central government and the armed forces following the military action under Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack. Addressing a press interaction, Cheema said, "The Aam Aadmi Party is absolutely with the country, with the central government. Whatever action is taken against Pakistan or against terrorists, we are united with the country." "Punjab has never betrayed the nation; it has always stood with the country. Whether it was the 1965 war, the 1971 war, whether it was a war of weapons, a war of devastation, or a war of words -- in all the battles that have taken place with enemy countries, Punjab has firmly stood with the nation," he said. "Even today, we stand with the country and will stand at the forefront in its support. I assure that no harm will come to the country, I assure you of that," Cheema added. On the outcome of the operation, he said, "Operation Sindoor was a successful operation for our country -- those who attacked our young soldiers, who attacked unarmed civilians -- I believe they will have to pay for everything, and the Government of India will make them pay. So we are completely with India." He added, "Punjab has five border areas -- it is so strategically important. The Punjab border with Pakistan stretches over almost 500 kilometers. The Punjab government is fully capable and strong. Our Punjab Police and all our forces are absolutely ready. Our civil administration is ready. We are fully prepared to support the Government of India. Today there will be a mock drill, and we are fully prepared for that as well. Our civil administration and defense administration will fully cooperate." The comments come after Wing Commander Vyomika Singh announced that nine terror camps were targeted and destroyed by Indian forces in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families," Singh said. Col Sofiya Qureshi showed video footage of the destroyed sites, including camps in Muridke, where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab were trained, and others in Sialkot, Barnala, Kotli, and Mehmoona Joya. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the attack on Pahalgam aimed to derail the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. The government termed Operation Sindoor the deepest strike by Indian forces inside Pakistani territory since 1971. (ANI)
West Bengal Leader of the Opposition and BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari on Wednesday lauded the India Armed Forces on successful execution of Operation Sindoor, which targeted nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), saying that it it is a "joyous day" for the country. Speaking to ANI, Adhikari said, "It it is a very joyous day. Our 'veer jawans' have done a good job of taking revenge. The full credit for this goes to the Indian army and our PM Narendra Modi. Yesterday, the TMC raised 14 questions on PM Narendra Modi, but today, they have said nothing." The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of Wednesday, targeting terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK). This operation was a retaliatory response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including one Nepali national. Hours after India conducted a series of strikes on terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh held a media briefing in the national capital to share the details of the operation. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media alongside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, stated that 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Singh reported that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She emphasised that the locations were chosen to ensure there was no damage to civilians or their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. (ANI)
Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Wednesday expressed strong support for the Indian Air Force's precision strikes on terror camps inside Pakistan, calling the operation a "devastating blow" to the infrastructure of terrorism. In a post on X, Chowdhury wrote, "I am proud of the Indian armed forces who have delivered a devastating blow to the terror infrastructures inside Pakistan by precision strikes of our air force." The Congress MP also referred to the Pahalgaon attack, where 26 Indians were reportedly killed, calling it a "horrific and ghastly" act that had outraged the entire nation. "People of India were fuming on the horrific and ghastly killings which took a toll of 26 innocent Indians in Pahalgaon," he said in the post on X. He also extended support to the central government's decision to respond militarily, calling the move bold and politically sound. "I also congratulate the resolve and political decision of our govt," he added. In a message that struck a nationalistic tone, Chowdhury added, "Make no mistake that we all stand by the side of the government and armed forces for all strict and stringent measures against our enemy Pakistan." On Wednesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah held a meeting with the Chief Ministers and other concerned government officials of various states, including Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and Rajasthan. The Chief Ministers of Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim, and West Bengal attended the meeting. Lieutenant Governors of the Union Territories of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh were also present. The Chief Secretaries and Director General of Police (DGPs) of the said states were also present in the meeting with Home Minister Shah. This comes amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the launch of Operation Sindoor, under which nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). Shah earlier spoke to JK CM Abdullah amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, following the Operation Sindoor, which has been initiated by the Indian Army in response to the ghastly Pahalgam terrorist attack. The Union Home Minister is also constantly in touch with Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha and the Director General of the Border Security Force (BSF). Shah has instructed DG BSF to ensure all safety measures for people living in border areas. Meanwhile, Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha reviewed the situation in the border districts of Jammu and Kashmir this morning. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor'. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. (ANI)
Panic and fear gripped border villages in Rajouri district after unprovoked shelling from Pakistan late last night. Residents reported that they had to spend the night in bulletproof bunkers. "They started firing at 2:45 AM. We were asleep when we suddenly heard the noise. Our children woke up, scared and worried. None of us had breakfast or tea," said Yasir Iqbal, a resident of Niyakapani village. "People are worried. Those fortunate enough to have found a bunker are inside, lying down. But they have no means to buy food," he added. Sarpanch Abdul Hussain from Neaqa village said the residents were exhausted and helpless. "The firing last night left our people in great distress. The government provided bunkers," he said. "We've witnessed many wars - the 1965 and 1971 wars, the militancy from 1990 to 2008, and now this ongoing conflict. We are very tired and helpless," he added. "We urge that such wars be avoided. We need to sit down and talk so that our country and our people can survive." Three innocent civilians lost their lives after the Pakistan Army violated the ceasefire by resorting to unprovoked and indiscriminate firing, including artillery shelling, from across the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB) opposite Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Army said on Tuesday night. The incident occurred during the night of May 6-7, when Pakistani forces indiscriminately opened fire on civilian areas. The Indian Army stated that it is responding in a "proportionate manner" to the unprovoked aggression. Earlier today, the Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation called Operation Sindoor, destroying four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), sources told ANI. "Operation Sindoor," which targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir was in direct response to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen and injured several others. (ANI)
Congress MP Imran Masood on Wednesday lauded the Indian security forces for their decisive action of the Indian Army in "Operation Sindoor." He further urged the government to disclose details of the operation. "Salute to Indian security forces, this was the kind of reply we expected...how many (terrorists) were killed and what all damages could they inflict, this also should be announced...then we will feel at peace...we had said several times, we are with govt and that they should give befitting reply...," he said. Meanwhile, party general secretary KC Venugopal said that earlier today, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge convened an emergency informal meeting of senior leaders in the national capital to discuss the current security situation. Venugopal shared a post on his official 'X' handle and informed about the development. "Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has convened an emergency informal meeting of senior leaders present in Delhi, at 3 PM today at 24 Akbar Road, to discuss the current security situation", Venugopal's post read. Meanwhile, the Government of India has called an all-party meeting on Thursday. "Govt has called an All Party leaders meeting at 11 am on 8th May, 2025 at Committee Room: G-074, in the Parliament Library Building, Parliament Complex in New Delhi," Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said in a post on X. The government had convened an all-party meeting after the Pahalgam terror attack, and the opposition parties had expressed their full support to the government for any action against the perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack. On Wednesday, the Indian Armed Forces shared details about Operation Sindoor, a targeted strike mission to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The information was shared in the media briefing consisting of Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Col Sophiya Qureshi. While speaking to the media, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Quresh, said that 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also met President Droupadi Murmu and briefed her on Operation Sindoor, in which the Indian Armed Forces launched precision strikes against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Twenty-six people were killed in the April 22 terror attack at Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. The government had said that the perpetrators will face severe punishment. (ANI)
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Wednesday expressed gratitude to Indian defence forces for carrying out precision strikes on terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. "I thank PM Modi and the Security Forces for this operation. Operation Sindoor was a successful operation. We have retaliated against the heinous crime done in Pahalgam by terrorists," Sai told reporters. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' in the early hours of Wednesday. The Indian Armed Forces shared details about Operation Sindoor on Wednesday in the media briefing consisting of foreign secretary Vikram Misri, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Col Sophiya Qureshi. While speaking to the media, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Qureshi said that the 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructures. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Meanwhile, during the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of 2008 Mumbai attacks received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. The Foreign Secretary said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. Meanwhile, speaking on the Mission Sankalp, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Sai said, "For many days, anti-naxal operation has been going on near Karegutta Hills on Chhattisgarh-Telangana border. Till now, more than 22 bodies of naxals have been found there. Operation is underway." More than 22 Naxals were killed in an ongoing encounter near Keregutta Hills in Bijapur district in Chhattisgarh, police said on Wednesday. (ANI)
Visuals from the scene showed damaged civilian infrastructure, shattered window panes, cracked walls, and debris scattered across the lanes of the village.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also held an emergency meeting with officials over the current situation in border areas.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a Union Cabinet meeting following the Operation Sindoor conducted by the Indian Armed Forces in the early hours of the day. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh briefed the other members of the cabinet regarding Operation Sindoor during the meeting.

Earlier today, the Indian Army shared a video of a strike on the Abbas Terrorist Camp at Kotli in PoJK.

According to the Indian Army, Abbas Terrorist Camp at Kotli was the nerve centre for training suicide bombers of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and it had key training infrastructure for over 50 terrorists.

On Wednesday, the Indian Armed Forces shared details about Operation Sindoor, a targeted strike mission to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

The information was shared in the media briefing consisting of Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Col Sophiya Qureshi.

While speaking to the media, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Quresh, said that 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families.

Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also met President Droupadi Murmu and briefed her on Operation Sindoor, in which the Indian Armed Forces launched precision strikes against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir in response to the Pahalgam terror attack.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan and briefed her about Operation Sindoor," Rashtrapati Bhavan said in a post on X.

The government has also called an all-party meeting for tomorrow. (ANI)
Former Indian Ambassador to China, Gautam Bambawale, stated on Wednesday that Operation Sindoor should not be viewed as an 'escalatory move,' but rather as a deterrent aimed at preventing Pakistan from aiding, financing, and training terrorists and sending them to India. Speaking to ANI, Bambawale stated that the nine sites which were targeted by the Indian Armed Forces have been major planning, control and training areas for different terror groups, including Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). "I think what happened earlier this morning will send a very important signal. I believe that this is not an escalatory measure that we have taken. We have targeted exactly only the terrorist areas where they live, work, and train, and that is a very important signal. I think it has been a good action," the former Diplomat said. "I am very happy that the government of India has taken this step because we had indicated very clearly to Pakistan that in 2016, after Uri, and in 2019, after Pulwama, that this kind of terrorist activity in India will not be without their cost. So we have increased the cost to the terrorists and I am very happy that the 9 sites which were targeted by our strategic missiles have been sites where there have been major terrorists planning, control and training of not only LeT but also JeM and other such groups," he added. "All governments of India have done their duty to the country. But I think it was very important to send a message, a message to deter Pakistan from aiding, financing, and training terrorists and sending them to India," he further stated. Responding to the further escalation, the former diplomat Bambawale, "That (possibility of a response) is something which the Pakistan people, Govt and the Army have to decide. But I believe that the step that India has taken is non-escalatory but we will wait and see. If there is a response from the other side, I am sure that India will respond accordingly also." On Wednesday, the Indian Armed Forces shared details about Operation Sindoor, a targeted strike mission to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The information was shared in the media briefing consisting of Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Col Sophiya Qureshi. While speaking to the media, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Qureshi, said that 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday morning. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives," Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Meanwhile, during the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. (ANI)
Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) MP Mahua Maji on Wednesday welcomed 'Operation Sindoor', calling it a "step to safeguard the country's self-esteem," while also issuing a caution against the risk of nuclear conflict between India and Pakistan. Speaking with ANI, Mahua Maji said, "This attack to safeguard our country's self-esteem is a welcome step... I appeal to the people of the country to maintain communal harmony... Neither country should attack civilians because then this attack could take another direction. If a nuclear war starts, then not just India or Pakistan, but the whole world will have to suffer the consequences. Therefore, we should act with patience." She further explained the symbolic meaning behind the name 'Operation Sindoor', stating, "This name 'Operation Sindoor' was chosen for the women whose husbands were killed... The Prime Minister selected this name, so some politics is involved in this." Soon after the focused strikes on terrorists and terrorist infrastructure at nine sites in Pakistan and PoJK as part of Operation Sindoor, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval spoke with his counterparts from the United States, Japan and several other countries and briefed them about India's "measured, non-escalatory" action, sources said. The government had convened an all-party meeting after the Pahalgam terror attack and the opposition parties had expressed their full support to the government for any action against the perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack. Addressing a media briefing today on Operation Sindoor in which terror camps were targeted, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said Indian intelligence agencies have been monitoring terrorist activities and raised concerns regarding more terrorist attacks in India. Some videos of the strikes destroying terror camps were also shown at the briefing held in the national capital today. Early today, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. Twenty-six people were killed in the April 22 terror attack at Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. The government had said that the perpetrators would face severe punishment. (ANI)
Congress leader Renuka Chowdhury expressed pride in India's armed forces and their restraint, while issuing a stern warning to Pakistan following the success of 'Operation Sindoor,' a military operation conducted in response to the terrorist attacks. "I am proud to be an Indian, to be the daughter of the armed services and all three forces standing on the border... India has never attacked any country unnecessarily, we have never gone to occupy any, until they have provoked...," she said. The Congress leader further emphasised that India's response was solely targeted at terror camps and did not harm civilian installations. "Pakistan went to Pahalgam and targeted innocent Indians, made widows of my Indian sisters, this is why this is 'Operation Sindoor'... We have shown that we should not be taken lightly... We have not attacked any civilian installation... I am telling Pakistan - back off...," she added. Meanwhile, Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal said that Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge convened an emergency informal meeting of senior leaders in the national capital to discuss the current security situation. Venugopal shared a post on his official 'X' handle and informed about the development. "Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has convened an emergency informal meeting of senior leaders present in Delhi, at 3 PM today at 24 Akbar Road, to discuss the current security situation", Venugopal's post read. Meanwhile, the Government of India has called an all-party meeting on Thursday to discuss the ongoing situation. "Govt has called an All Party leaders meeting at 11 am on 8th May, 2025 at Committee Room: G-074, in the Parliament Library Building, Parliament Complex in New Delhi," Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said in a post on X. The government had convened an all-party meeting after the Pahalgam terror attack and the opposition parties had expressed their full support to the government for any action against the perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack. The Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' early today, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. Twenty-six people were killed in the April 22 terror attack at Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. The government had said that the perpetrators would face severe punishment. (ANI)
Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind President Maulana Mahmood Madani has issued a strong statement of support for the Indian armed forces and the sovereignty of the nation, in response to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam and India's subsequent military response. According to a release from theJamiat Ulama-i-Hind, emphasizing that the defense of the nation is an unwavering commitment, Maulana Madani stated, "India is our homeland, and its defense is both our national and constitutional responsibility. Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind has always upheld the values of patriotism, peace, and unity. At a time when our borders are under threat, we stand shoulder to shoulder with our brave soldiers." He further said, "Should Pakistan impose a war, we want to state in an unequivocal term that the entire country--people of all religions, especially Muslims--will stand with the Indian armed forces." Maulana Madani also called upon the Indian government to respond decisively to any act of aggression, "We urge the Government of India to deliver a strong and fitting response to every hostile action. The world must know that India, united as one nation, will defend its land at all costs." Reiterating the organization's commitment to national unity, he said that Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind would work across the country to foster a spirit of unity, patience, and sacrifice in this challenging time. The Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday morning. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives," Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Meanwhile, during a press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. (ANI)
Nationalist Congress Party (SP) chief Sharad Pawar on Wednesday congratulated the India Armed Forces for the successful execution of Operation Sindoor, which targeted nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). In a post on X, Pawar wrote, "Spoke with PMO and raksha mantri ... congratulated the efforts of the Indian armed forces and commended them for the action taken. We reiterated our support to the government during this challenging time." The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of Wednesday, targeting terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK). This operation was a retaliatory response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including one Nepali national. Hours after India conducted a series of strikes on terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh held a media briefing in the national capital to share the details of the operation. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media alongside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, stated that 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Singh reported that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She emphasised that the locations were chosen to ensure there was no damage to civilians or their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Odisha Bharatiya Janata Party President Manmohan Samal on Wednesday expressed deep appreciation for the Indian armed forces in light of their response to the Pahalagam terror attack calling Operation Sindoor a "homage to the deceased". The Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday morning. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructure. He said, "The strategy and planning of the armed forces was accurate. This is a huge homage to the deceased." "Everyone was grieving and angered in the country. No amount of gratitude would be enough," Samal said, acknowledging the national sentiment following the attack. He commended the military for their courage and professionalism. "The valour shown by the armed forces is worth the appreciation. The befitting reply by India has started and will go to a logical end." Meanwhile, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday lauded Indian armed forces for Operation Sindoor and said that this shows country's policy of "zero tolerance." "Through Operation Sindoor, India's brave jawans gave a reply for the terrorist attack on the country. Nine locations in PoK and Pakistan, which were terrorist havens, were successfully targeted and terrorists were dealt with...In the days to come too, this shows 'zero tolerance' policy and terrorists spread across the world will be wiped out under the leadership of India" Mohan Charan Majhi said. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives," Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. During a press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. (ANI)
In a state cabinet meeting chaired by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the Union Home Ministry's guidelines for the upcoming mock drill were reviewed. All ministers and in-charge secretaries were directed to support district administrations in their implementation. The Chief Minister, Bhupendra Patel, instructed cabinet ministers to assess the preparedness of district administrations and monitor progress on mock drill activities in their respective districts. The Chief Minister also mentioned that the mock drill should not cause panic among citizens, clarifying that its purpose is to raise awareness about security and safety measures. Additionally, the meeting reviewed the citizens' responsibilities for the state-wide civil defence mock drill. In preparation for the blackout, citizens are advised to cover windows with thick curtains, turn off all lights, and avoid using mobile phones or other light-emitting devices near windows during the alert. During the State Cabinet meeting, the Government of Gujarat congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the security forces for the successful completion of 'Operation Sindoor' carried out by the Army. The nationwide drill is mandated by the Ministry of Home Affairs, is part of a larger exercise to assess preparedness for potential security threats, particularly in light of rising tensions with Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack. India launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' in the early hours of Wednesday in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack. Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Singh Badal has strongly condemned the inhuman attack by Pakistani forces on the sacred Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Poonch. In a social media post on X, condemning the inhuman attack, Badal stated that three Sikhs have lost their lives. As per Badal's office, the deceased have been identified as Amrik Singh Ji (a raagi Singh), Bhai Amarjeet Singh and Ranjit Singh. The SAD leader expressed solidarity with the bereaved families and demanded adequate compensation to support them in their time of grief. The social media post reads, "Strongly condemn the inhuman attack by Pakistani forces on the sacred Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Poonch, in which three innocent Gursikhs, including Bhai Amrik Singh Ji (a raagi Singh), Bhai Amarjeet Singh and Bhai Ranjit Singh lost their lives. The Shiromani Akali Dal expresses complete solidarity with the families of the deceased Gursikhs and prays for peace for the departed and courage for their friends and loved ones. We demand that the martyrs be honored for their sacrifice and that the bereaved families receive adequate compensation to support them in their time of grief. The Sikhs have always been, and will continue to be, the sword arm of the country. We stand like a rock with our armed forces. Although the Shiromani Akali Dal and our country stand for peace, if our honor is challenged by the enemy, we need no reminder to fulfill our patriotic duties." https://x.com/officeofssbadal/status/1920036320522457275?s=46 Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also condemned the incident stating that targeting the common people is completely wrong. He also expressed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. "There has been news of a bomb attack by Pakistan on a Gurdwara Sahib located near the LOC in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir. In this attack, a Ragi Singh Bhai Amrik Singh, Amarjit Singh, Ranjit Singh and Ruby Kaur have died. Where prayers are offered for the well-being of all, such an attack is highly condemnable. Targeting the common people is completely wrong. We express our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. It is a prayer to Guru Sahib that He may place the departed souls at His feet and give strength to the families to bear this unbearable pain," Chief Minister Mann posted on X. https://x.com/BhagwantMann/status/1920063429764665768 After Operation Sindoor, the Pakistan Army continued its series of ceasefire violations by targeting civilian areas in the border areas of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. Officials said the shelling caused panic among villagers and damaged several houses. Visuals from the scene showed damaged civilian infrastructure, shattered window panes, cracked walls, and debris scattered across the lanes of the village. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also held an emergency meeting with officials over the current situation in border areas. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a Union Cabinet meeting following the Operation Sindoor conducted by the Indian Armed Forces in the early hours of the day. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh briefed the other members of the cabinet regarding Operation Sindoor during the meeting. India launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' in the early hours of Wednesday in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack. Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation. The operation was jointly carried out by the Defence Forces with the mobilisation of assets and troops. (ANI)
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed his appreciation for the Indian forces involved in Operation Sindoor, calling it a significant success. "I want to thank and congratulate our forces for entering Pakistan and hitting nine precise targets, the establishments of dreaded terrorists," Fadnavis said. He particularly acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying, "I want to especially thank PM Narendra Modi. He has stood up to his promises." CM Fadnavis highlighted, "The precision with which the targets were hit, there has been no civilian casualty, and only terrorists have been hit." The CM also referred to the broader support India has received globally, calling it the country's "biggest achievement." "The global community stands with India, and this is our biggest achievement," Fadnavis added, connecting the operation to the revenge for the targeted killings in Pahalgam. The name "Operation Sindoor," Fadnavis explained, symbolised India's avenging the grief of widowed sisters. "The name, Operation Sindoor, highlights that India has avenged the grief of our widowed sisters," he said. Fadnavis also said that security and vigilance remain high across the state. "We are very alert- including administration, police and civil defence," he stated. Fadnavis criticised opposition leaders who had mocked the Rafale fighter jet deal, calling them "fools." "They (opposition leaders who mocked the Rafale fighters) are fools, there is nothing else I can call them," he said. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday morning. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives," Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Meanwhile, during a press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. (ANI)
As the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has ordered to conduct a nationwide mock drill, authorities in Punjab's Amritsar carried out a civil defence mock drill exercise on Wednesday evening. A senior police official informed that two mock drill exercises would be conducted in the city, out of which, one was conducted at 4 pm while the second one would be conducted at 10.30 pm today, where sirens will be heard. Residents have been urged to turn off their lights at 10:30 PM as part of the drill. Power supply will resume shortly after, the official said. In a video message, Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Amritsar, Sakshi Sahni, said, "Mock drill will be carried out in two ways. A siren will be heard at 4 pm, which will be for a simulation exercise... This will broadly be a practice drill. The second drill will be carried out at 10:30 pm, wherein another siren will be heard. There will be a blackout at that time. It is requested that everyone keep their lights off at that time... Power will be normally restored shortly after." The official further requested the residents to not to believe on any fake news, adding that she has also received information about people indulging in black marketing and selling daily needs products at higher prices. "I have also received information that some people are spreading misinformation and indulging in black marketing. I would like to warn all such people of strict action... The district administration will give you all the information and important updates. I urge everyone not to believe in fake news..." the official added. This nationwide drill, mandated by the Ministry of Home Affairs, is part of a larger exercise to assess preparedness for potential security threats, particularly in light of rising tensions with Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack. Meanwhile, India launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' in the early hours of Wednesday in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack. Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha praised the Indian armed forces for their swift and precision military strikes under Operation Sindoor, conducted in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. "Within 15 days, we carried out Operation Sindoor with precision strikes. It has been a huge success. I want to congratulate the Indian Armed Forces... People of Tripura stand with the country, the armed forces, and the government," the CM said. On the comprehensive Civil Defence Mock Drill across all districts of Tripura, CM said, "We received the information last night that a mock drill will be conducted. In Tripura, this mock drill will be conducted as per the directions received. We are prepared for it..." The District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs), in collaboration with the District Civil Defence Corps, spearheaded the exercise, ensuring active involvement from various emergency and disaster response agencies. The drill aims to evaluate the readiness, efficiency, and coordination among civil defence units and allied departments in managing potential hostile attacks and emergencies. Meanwhile, the Government of India has called an all-party meeting on Thursday. "Govt has called an All Party leaders meeting at 11 am on 8th May, 2025 at Committee Room: G-074, in the Parliament Library Building, Parliament Complex in New Delhi," Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said in a post on X. The government had convened an all-party meeting after the Pahalgam terror attack, and the opposition parties had expressed their full support to the government for any action against the perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack. The Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' early today, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. Twenty-six people were killed in the April 22 terror attack at Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. The government had said that the perpetrators would face severe punishment. (ANI)
A civil defence mock drill was conducted at a school in Siliguri, West Bengal, on Wednesday, where security personnel briefed students and teachers on crisis preparedness. Meanwhile, mock drill were also held at key locations in Maharashtra's Mumbai, including Cross Maidan and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) on Wednesday evening. This comes after the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Monday instructed all states and union territories to carry out the drills to evaluate their preparedness against "new and complex threats." The drills are being carried out across major cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Gwalior, and Jaipur, focusing on evaluating local response capabilities to security challenges. The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of Wednesday, targeting terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK). This operation was a retaliatory response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including one Nepali national. Hours after India conducted a series of strikes on terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh held a media briefing in the national capital to share the details of the operation. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media alongside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, stated that 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Singh reported that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She emphasised that the locations were chosen to ensure there was no damage to civilians or their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Singh Badal has strongly condemned "the inhuman attack by Pakistani forces on the sacred Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Poonch." In a social media post on X, condemning the "inhuman attack," Badal stated that three Gursikhs have lost their lives. As per Badal's office, the deceased have been identified as Amrik Singh Ji (a raagi Singh), Bhai Amarjeet Singh and Ranjit Singh. The SAD leader expressed solidarity with the bereaved families and demanded an adequate compensation to support them in their time of grief. The social media post reads, "Strongly condemn the inhuman attack by Pakistani forces on the sacred Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Poonch, in which three innocent Gursikhs, including Bhai Amrik Singh Ji (a raagi Singh), Bhai Amarjeet Singh and Bhai Ranjit Singh lost their lives. The Shiromani Akali Dal expresses complete solidarity with the families of the deceased Gursikhs and prays for peace for the departed and courage for their friends and loved ones. We demand that the martyrs be honored for their sacrifice and that the bereaved families receive adequate compensation to support them in their time of grief. The Sikhs have always been, and will continue to be, the sword arm of the country. We stand like a rock with our armed forces. Although the Shiromani Akali Dal and our country stand for peace, if our honor is challenged by the enemy, we need no reminder to fulfill our patriotic duties." https://x.com/officeofssbadal/status/1920036320522457275?s=46 Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also condemned the incident stating that targeting the common people is completely wrong. He also expressed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. "There has been news of a bomb attack by Pakistan on a Gurdwara Sahib located near the LOC in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir. In this attack, a Ragi Singh Bhai Amrik Singh, Amarjit Singh, Ranjit Singh and Ruby Kaur have died. Where prayers are offered for the well-being of all, such an attack is highly condemnable. Targeting the common people is completely wrong. We express our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. It is a prayer to Guru Sahib that He may place the departed souls at His feet and give strength to the families to bear this unbearable pain," Chief Minister Mann posted on X. https://x.com/BhagwantMann/status/1920063429764665768 After Operation Sindoor, the Pakistan Army continued its series of ceasefire violations by targeting civilian areas in the border areas of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. Officials said the shelling caused panic among villagers and damaged several houses. Visuals from the scene showed damaged civilian infrastructure, shattered window panes, cracked walls, and debris scattered across the lanes of the village. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also held an emergency meeting with officials over the current situation in border areas. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a Union Cabinet meeting following the Operation Sindoor conducted by the Indian Armed Forces in the early hours of the day. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh briefed the other members of the cabinet regarding Operation Sindoor during the meeting. India launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' in the early hours of Wednesday in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack. Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
The operations led to the recovery of 5.465 kg of heroin (5 kg and 0.465 kg) and two Chinese-made 7.62mm pistols, along with four magazines and one pistol barrel.

Preliminary investigations indicate the consignment originated from Pakistan-based smugglers.

FIRs have been registered under the NDPS and Arms Acts, and probes are ongoing to uncover forward and backwards linkages.

Earlier on Tuesday, a joint operation between the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Punjab Police led to the arrest of three smugglers yesterday evening, in the village of Awanbasu, Amritsar, based on intelligence gathered by the Border Security Force (BSF), according to a release statement.

The operation involved an ambush, resulting in the seizure of one pistol, one magazine, four live rounds, Rs2000 in drug money, four smartphones, one motorcycle, one tractor, and 25 grams of heroin.

The apprehended smugglers are residents of the villages of Kotla and Chak Dogar in the Amritsar district. The police are further questioning them to determine their illicit links.

This significant apprehension of narco-smugglers with the recovery of arms, ammunition and narcotics demonstrates the professional competence and unflinching dedication of the BSF troops and Punjab Police who are committed to securing the nation's border and combating the cross-border smuggling activities.

Last week, in another success against cross-border drone activity, the Border Security Force (BSF) recovered two Pakistani drones in Punjab.

According to a release, the first DJI Mavic 3 Classic drone was found in a field near Shahur Kalan village, Gurdaspur district, following a joint search operation with Punjab Police. Shortly after, another similar drone was recovered near Bhaini Rajputana village in Amritsar district. (ANI)
On a day that India struck at terror targets deep inside Pakistan, one family stood proud as their duaghter Colonel Sofiya Qureshi was entrusted with the duty of briefing the nation on the crucial strike. Her father, Taj Mohammed Qureshi, said, "We are very proud. Our daughter has done a great thing for our country... Pakistan should be destroyed... My grandfather, my father, and I were all in the army. Now she is, too." Sofiya's mother, Halima Qureshi, also expressed pride over the successful execution of Operation Sindoor, which targeted nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK), saying that the Indian Army have avenged the sindoors of our sisters and mothers. She noted that Sofiya had long aspired to follow in her father's and grandfather's footsteps, who both served in the Indian Army. "As a child, she often said that she would join the army when she grew up," Halima Qureshi added. "We have avenged the sindoors of our sisters and mothers... Sofiya wanted to follow in the footsteps of her father and grandfather, who were also in the army. She used to say as a child that when she grew up, she would join the army," she told ANI. Mohammed Sanjay Qureshi, brother of Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, also expressed similar sentiments, saying the country had been waiting for a long time for revenge following the Pahalgam terror attack. But could never have expected such revenge. Qureshi also expressed his surprise that his sister was allowed to brief the media about the operation, saying that he was surprised his sister was given such a big opportunity. "She is my idol... We were waiting for a long time for revenge. But we could never have expected such revenge, or for the press conference to be conducted by a family member. We were pleasantly surprised that our family got such a big opportunity," he told ANI. Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh briefed the media on Wednesday in New Delhi about Operation Sindoor. The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of Wednesday, targeting terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK). This operation was a retaliatory response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including one Nepali national. Hours after India conducted a series of strikes on terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh held a media briefing in the national capital to share the details of the operation. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media alongside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Colonel Qureshi, stated that 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Singh reported that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She emphasised that the locations were chosen to ensure there was no damage to civilians or their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Colonel Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Colonel Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday chaired a high-level meeting at his residence, directing officials to enhance security across key sites in the state, especially in view of the international border situation. According to a release, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday directed the officials in a high-level meeting at the Chief Minister's residence that in view of the conditions of the international borders, special arrangements should be made for the security of the Chardham Yatra, important establishments located in Uttarakhand and dams and power plants. He has also instructed the government, administration and police to remain in an alert mode. The release noted that after participating in the virtual meeting of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held a meeting with senior officials at the Chief Minister's residence. In the meeting, the Chief Minister said that "strong security arrangements should be made in all areas of the state bordering the international borders, suspicious activities in the border areas should be kept under close watch." He said that at present the Chardham Yatra is going on in the state, in which lakhs of pilgrims are participating, so strong security arrangements should be made in all the four Dhams, including the Yatra route. He said that there are many establishments of national importance in Uttarakhand, and necessary steps should be taken for the security of these institutions. As per the release, the Chief Minister said that "for any kind of emergency, the supply of essential commodities including food grains should be maintained at the district and tehsil level. Hospitals should be kept on alert for emergency situations. Full arrangements of all essential medicines should be made." He said that civil defence teams and voluntary organisations should be trained for rescue and relief work. The release said that the Chief Minister said that people should also be alerted with the right information, as well as it should be ensure that only correct and certified information reaches the general public, so that they can stay away from rumours. Also, strictness should be taken against those who spread rumours. It should be constantly monitored through social media. (ANI)
Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Azmi on Wednesday praised the Indian armed forces for its precision strikes on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK under Operation Sindoor and criticised Pakistan for supporting terrorism. Speaking to the ANI, Abu Azmi said, "The people of the country demanded strict action against the terrorists. I congratulate all the soldiers posted on the border, the army, who blew up many terrorist hideouts of Pakistan. A lot of terrorists from Pakistan enter India and the government (of Pakistan) does not take any action, rather I believe that it itself sends them." Azmi also highlighted the courage and sacrifice of the local Kashmiri people. "Everyone is angry over the killing of tourists in Pahalgam, but I think Kashmiris have also made a sacrifices and laid down their lives to save the tourists," he said. The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of Wednesday, targeting terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK). This operation was a retaliatory response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including one Nepali national. Hours after India conducted a series of strikes on terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh held a media briefing in the national capital to share the details of the operation. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media alongside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Colonel Qureshi, stated that 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Singh reported that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She emphasised that the locations were chosen to ensure there was no damage to civilians or their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Colonel Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Colonel Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) faction to focus on the upcoming Maharashtra local body elections, after the party sought an urgent hearing of its plea related to the 'bow and arrow' election symbol. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Shiv Sena (UTB), mentioned the matter for early hearing of the party's plea against the poll panel's decision to recognise the Eknath Shinde group as the official Shiv Sena and grant them the 'bow and arrow' election symbol. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh told Sibal that the matter could be taken up only after the court's summer break due to the paucity of time. Sibal said the symbol, which has been with Shiv Sena (UTB), will be used by the Shinde faction in local body elections, and it will matter especially in rural areas. As Justice Kant asked, since when local body elections were fought on party symbols, Sibal said it happens in Maharashtra, and the party symbol will have a great impact on voters' minds. Sibal said the Election Commission decided to give the symbol to the Eknath Shinde faction solely on the test of legislative majority, which was contrary to the Constitution bench judgement of the apex court. "Let the elections be held smoothly. You concentrate on that. In local bodies, mostly voters don't support a symbol," Justice Kant told Sibal. The apex court said the matter can be heard by a vacation bench if Sibal makes a case and if it's very urgent. On May 6, the apex court paved way for the local body polls in the state which were stalled for over five years due to a reservation issue. It ordered the Maharashtra Election Commission to notify it in four weeks. On February 17, 2024, the Election Commission allotted the name 'Shiv Sena' and its poll symbol 'bow and arrow' to the group led by Shinde. The Uddhav Thackeray faction was allowed to use the name 'Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray)' and the symbol of 'flaming torch' for the bye-elections in the Maharashtra assembly. The Election Commission had allowed that interim arrangement in view of the bye-elections in the Maharashtra assembly, scheduled to take place on February 26 last year. The Thackeray group had challenged the Election Commission of India's order allotting the party name to the faction led by Shinde. In 2023, the top court had allowed the Election Commission to decide which faction between Thackeray and Shinde be recognised as the 'real' Shiv Sena party and allotment of the 'bow and arrow' symbol. The Thackeray faction had contended that the Election Commission had failed in its duties as a "neutral arbiter of disputes" under the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order of 1968. (ANI)
As part of the nationwide civil defence mock drill ordered by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), emergency preparedness exercises were conducted at key locations in the national capital on Wednesday evening, including Terminal 3 of Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) headquarters, ISBT area, and North Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) Office. West Delhi District Magistrate Dr. Kinny Singh told ANI that during the drill, guidelines were explained to residents, who were also informed about shelters in cases of emergency. "As per the government instructions, we carried out a mock drill at DLF Capital Greens... Guidelines were explained to residents, and they were also informed about shelters in cases of emergency," she said. A mock drill was also conducted in Patel Nagar. Patel Nagar SDM Dr Nitin Shakya told ANI that a building collapse scenario was created, and all concerned departments were involved in the drill to test emergency preparedness. "We created a scenario of a building collapse. We mobilised the casualties for the hospital. Others have been mobilised for shelter homes... All concerned departments were involved in the drill," he said. Additionally, a 15-minute blackout was observed in the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) area from 8:00 pm to 8:15 pm, as part of a nationwide mock drill to assess emergency preparedness. These drills are being carried out across major cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Gwalior, and Jaipur, to evaluate local response capabilities to security challenges. This came after the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of Wednesday, targeting terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (Pok). This operation was a retaliatory response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including one Nepali national. Hours after India conducted a series of strikes on terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh held a media briefing in the national capital to share the details of the operation. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media alongside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, stated that 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Singh reported that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She emphasised that the locations were chosen to ensure there was no damage to civilians or their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Aiming to envision India's ascent to global economic leadership by its 100th year of independence, renowned economist S P Sharma launched his latest book 'India@2047: Leading the Global Economic Order' in New Delhi on Wednesday. The launch event at Juniper Hall, India Habitat Centre, brought together several notable dignitaries, including Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National Spokesperson Gopal Krishna Agarwal; former Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Ajay Dua; Indian Institute of Foreign Trade Vice Chancellor RM Joshi; former Secretary General of PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry Saurabh Sanyal; Chairman of the Chamber's Kashmir chapter AP Vicky Shaw; and Niti Bhasin of the Delhi School of Economics. The event was moderated by Sansad TV anchor Teena Jha. S P Sharma, Chief Economist at New Economic Order Economists and former Chief Economist of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasised that India is already demonstrating strong economic momentum, resilience, and strategic policy focus despite global uncertainties. According to the book, India's average GDP growth of over 8 per cent during FY22 to FY24 positions the country as a key driver of global growth. The book identifies key enablers of this transformation, including flagship government initiatives such as Make in India, PM Gati Shakti, and record-breaking Foreign Direct Investment which has crossed the USD 1 trillion mark. It highlights India's robust macroeconomic fundamentals--rising tax revenues, strong foreign exchange reserves, and a stable debt-to-GDP ratio--as signs of a maturing and stable economy. Sharma's work spans seven detailed chapters, assessing India's economic journey through the lens of reforms, digital innovation, sustainability, and global integration. It also outlines India's evolving role in global forums like G20, BRICS, BIMSTEC, and its strategic partnerships with regions including the US, EU, GCC, and ASEAN. Key initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and Chabahar Port are presented as pivotal in strengthening India's global connectivity and logistics leadership. Gopal Krishna Agarwal called for a Saamuhik Sankalp--a collective pledge--to realize India's potential. He underscored the importance of entrepreneurship, intellectual capital, and domestic consumption, and praised India's controlled fiscal deficit and investment-friendly climate. Stressing on inclusive growth, Agarwal noted India's rise in welfare delivery and its expanding geopolitical, military, and economic footprint. Ajay Dua hailed India as the "Startup Capital of the World" but also acknowledged challenges like low agricultural productivity and unemployment, especially among women. He stressed the need to unlock domestic demand and leverage intellectual capital for growth. RM Joshi praised the book for providing a holistic vision of Viksit Bharat. He pointed to India's global food security role, its recently concluded UK trade deal, and the country's resilience during COVID-19 as evidence of its growing global stature. Niti Bhasin lauded India's inclusive and collective leadership style, citing the African Union's inclusion in the G20 as a key example. She advocated for complementing competitive federalism with cooperative efforts for holistic national progress. Saurabh Sanyal highlighted the importance of political will, military strength, and skilled manpower in national development. He also spoke about India's increasing adaptation to AI and digital technologies, as detailed in the book. AP Vicky Shaw brought regional perspectives into the discussion, emphasizing tourism's growth in Jammu & Kashmir and suggesting more focus on food processing and high-value agricultural exports. He noted India's rising defence and electronics exports, and the importance of social inclusivity in economic growth. In summation, India@2047: Leading the Global Economic Order presents a vision grounded in economic foresight, inclusive development, and global cooperation. Sharma's book is both a blueprint and a call to action, mapping India's transition into a globally integrated, innovative, and sustainable economic superpower by 2047. (ANI)
A young boy in Baramulla sustained injury after the Pakistan Army continued its series of ceasefire violations, targeting civilian areas along the border in Jammu and Kashmir following Operation Sindoor. The boy is among several locals who sustained injuries during the shelling by Pakistan's forces last night. The injured are being treated at the Government Medical College (GMC) in Baramulla. Fifteen innocent civilians have been killed and 43 injured in artillery firing by the Pakistan Army since yesterday night, which has hit civilian areas in Poonch and Tangdhar, defence sources said on Wednesday. Pakistan Army has targeted civilian areas in the border areas. The shelling caused panic among villagers and damaged several houses. Officials said the shelling caused panic among villagers and damaged several houses. Shelling by Pakistan damaged civilian infrastructure, shattered window panes and cracked walls. Visuals from the scene showed damaged civilian infrastructure, shattered window panes, cracked walls, and debris scattered across the lanes of the village. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also held an emergency meeting with officials over the current situation in border areas. The Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' in the early hours of Wednesday, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday that the Indian Armed Forces displayed their valour and bravery in Operation Sindoor, scripting a new history, and took action against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and POJK with "precision, alertness and sensitivity". Speaking at an event for the inauguration of 50 Border Roads Organisation infrastructure projects across six states and two UTs, Rajnath Singh said that the armed forces showed sensitivity in ensuring that the civilian population is not affected during their action. He also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his full support to the armed forces. India's precision strikes on terrorist infrastructure came in response to the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed. India launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' in the early hours of Wednesday in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack. Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Pakistan's artillery firing since yesterday night on civilian areas in Poonch and Tangdhar and other border areas in Jammu and Kashmir has caused immense hardship to the locals, forcing people to flee their houses and has also damaged several residences. The locals are showing resilience and have expressed support for Operation Sindoor in which terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK has been targeted through precision strikes in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The injured are getting treatment at various medical facilities. After Operation Sindoor, the Pakistan Army continued its series of ceasefire violations by targeting border civilian areas in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. The shelling has also caused some panic among villagers and damaged several houses. An injured local, Badruddin said that Pakistan started very heavy shelling around 2:30 am on Wednesday. "So, we had to flee. Four of our houses were burnt...Both my son and I are injured. My family is here at GMC. There is no place for us to be. We want peace. There should be peace," he said. A young boy is among the locals in Baramulla who were injured in the shelling by Pakistan last night. The injured are receiving medical treatment at Government Medical College in Baramulla. During the night of May 6 and 7, the Pakistan Army resorted to arbitrary firing, including Artillery shelling from posts across the Line of Control and International Border. Pakistan Army also resorted to heavy shelling in Poonch and Rajouri areas along LoC after Operation Sindoor "We will not leave the place and support the Indian Army. The ceasefire may be violated today as well... The operation is a befitting reply... We have sent the women and children from here, but the men will stay here," a resident said Fifteen innocent civilians have been killed and 43 injured in artillery firing by Pakistan Army since yesterday night which has hit civilian areas in Poonch and Tangdhar, defence sources said on Wednesday. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also held an emergency meeting with officials over the current situation in border areas. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday that the Indian Armed Forces displayed their valour and bravery in Operation Sindoor, scripting a new history, and took action against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and POJK with "precision, alertness and sensitivity". Speaking at an event for the inauguration of 50 Border Roads Organisation infrastructure projects across six states and two UTs, Rajnath Singh said that the armed forces showed sensitivity in ensuring that the civilian population is not affected during their action. He also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his full support to the armed forces. India's precision strikes on terrorist infrastructure came in response to the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed. "You know that today, under the guidance of PM Narendra Modi, our Indian armed forces have made us all proud... Last night, our Indian armed forces displayed their valour and bravery, and scripted a new history. Indian armed forces took action with precision, alertness and sensitiveness. The targets we decided where accurately demolished with precision.. Our armed forces also showed sensitivity in ensuring that the civilian population is not affected at all," Rajnath Singh said. "In a way, we can say that Indian jawans showed precision, alertness and humanity. On behalf of the entire country, I congratulate the jawans and officers," he added. Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Singh Badal has strongly condemned "the inhuman attack by Pakistani forces on the sacred Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Poonch." In a social media post on X, condemning the "inhuman attack," Badal stated that three Sikhs have lost their lives. As per Badal's office, the deceased have been identified as Amrik Singh Ji (a raagi Singh), Bhai Amarjeet Singh and Ranjit Singh. The SAD leader expressed solidarity with the bereaved families and demanded an adequate compensation to support them in their time of grief. "Strongly condemn the inhuman attack by Pakistani forces on the sacred Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Poonch, in which three innocent Gursikhs, including Bhai Amrik Singh Ji (a raagi Singh), Bhai Amarjeet Singh and Bhai Ranjit Singh lost their lives. The Shiromani Akali Dal expresses complete solidarity with the families of the deceased Gursikhs and prays for peace for the departed and courage for their friends and loved ones. We demand that the martyrs be honored for their sacrifice and that the bereaved families receive adequate compensation to support them in their time of grief. The Sikhs have always been, and will continue to be, the sword arm of the country. We stand like a rock with our armed forces. Although the Shiromani Akali Dal and our country stand for peace, if our honor is challenged by the enemy, we need no reminder to fulfill our patriotic duties," Badal said in a post on X. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also condemned the incident stating that targeting the common people is completely wrong. He also expressed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. "There has been news of a bomb attack by Pakistan on a Gurdwara Sahib located near the LOC in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir. In this attack, a Ragi Singh Bhai Amrik Singh, Amarjit Singh, Ranjit Singh and Ruby Kaur have died. Where prayers are offered for the well-being of all, such an attack is highly condemnable. Targeting the common people is completely wrong. We express our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. It is a prayer to Guru Sahib that He may place the departed souls at His feet and give strength to the families to bear this unbearable pain," Chief Minister Mann posted on X. Earlier in the day, at a joint briefing on Operation Sindoor in which nine terrorist camps were targeted with precision strikes, Foreign Secretay Vikram Misri said the terror attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family. "The family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. Misri said that Indian intelligence agencies had been monitoring terrorist activities and raised concerns regarding more terrorist attacks in India. "Our intelligence indicated that further attacks against India are impending. Thus, compulsion, both to deter and prevent and hence earlier this morning, India exercised its right to respond to deter such more cross-border terrorism... Our actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible. They focused on dismantling terrorists' infrastructure," he said. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructures. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives, she said. Col Sofiya Qureshi showed some videos of the strikes destroying terror camps. The Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' early Wednesday. Twenty-six people were killed in the Pahalgam terror attack. The government had said that the perpetrators will face severe punishment. (ANI)
Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma on Wednesday praised Indian Armed forces for carrying out precision strikes on terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJk) in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Emphasising the name of the Operation Sindoor, the Deputy CM said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given this name because the terrorists killed the husbands of our daughters and mothers in the incident. "In that incident, the terrorists killed the husbands of our daughters and mothers, that's why PM Modi has given this name (Sindoor) to this operation. The locations of terrorists are being destroyed in PoK. It is commendable..." Sharma told ANI. Speaking on the opposition's reaction on the precision strikes, Deputy Chief Minister Sharma stated that its good they have commended and not raised questions as they did during Balakot airstrikes. Sharma stated, "The opposition parties have also commended it. Opposing something for the sake of opposition is not good. Its good if the opposition is commending it. At least they are not saying things as they had said during the last air strike." In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' in the early hours of Wednesday. Meanwhile, fifteen innocent civilians were killed and 43 injured in artillery firing by the Pakistan Army since yesterday night which has hit civilian areas in Poonch and Tangdhar, defence sources said on today. After Operation Sindoor, the Pakistan Army continued its series of ceasefire violations by targeting civilian areas in the border areas of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. Officials said the shelling caused panic among villagers and damaged several houses.Shelling by Pakistan damaged civilian infrastructure, shattered window panes and cracked walls. (ANI)
Indian Army is closely monitoring the ceasefire violations by Pakistan after the Indian forces conducted precise strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir under Operation Sindoor, defence officials said on Wednesday. The Army and security forces are on high alert in view of the possible misadventure by Pakistan. According to defence officials, Chief of Army Staff Gen Upendra Dwivedi is in constant touch with local formations on Pakistan Army actions along the Line of Control (LOC). Formations have been given operational freedom to give appropriate response to the Pakistan Army's use of artillery guns to target Indian civilians in Poonch and Tangdhar. Pakistan resorted to artillery shelling on civilian areas in Poonch and Tangdhar and killed fifteen innocent civilians while injuring 43 others after Indian army conducted precise strikes on nine terror targets using precision guided special munitions. Earlier in the day, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also held an emergency meeting with officials over the current situation in border areas. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday that the Indian Armed Forces displayed their valour and bravery in Operation Sindoor, scripting a new history, and took action against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and POJK with "precision, alertness and sensitivity". Speaking at an event for the inauguration of 50 Border Roads Organisation infrastructure projects across six states and two UTs, Rajnath Singh said that the armed forces showed sensitivity in ensuring that the civilian population is not affected during their action. He also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his full support to the armed forces. India's precision strikes on terrorist infrastructure came in response to the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed. "You know that today, under the guidance of PM Narendra Modi, our Indian armed forces have made us all proud... Last night, our Indian armed forces displayed their valour and bravery, and scripted a new history. Indian armed forces took action with precision, alertness and sensitiveness. The targets we decided where accurately demolished with precision.. Our armed forces also showed sensitivity in ensuring that the civilian population is not affected at all," Rajnath Singh said. "In a way, we can say that Indian jawans showed precision, alertness and humanity. On behalf of the entire country, I congratulate the jawans and officers," he added. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday chaired a security review meeting in New Delhi with the Lieutenant Governors and Chief Ministers of border states adjoining Pakistan and Nepal. The meeting was attended via video conferencing by the Lieutenant Governors of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, the Chief Ministers of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and West Bengal, and a representative from the Sikkim government, according to the Ministry of Home Affairs. In the meeting, Shah said that after the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that the country would give a befitting reply to the perpetrators and supporters of the terror attack. The Home Minister expressed gratitude for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's firm resolve and decision regarding Operation Sindoor. He stated that Operation Sindoor is a befitting reply from Bharat to those who dare to challenge India's borders, military, and citizens. All Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors present in the meeting congratulated Prime Minister Modi and the three armed forces for the success of Operation Sindoor. Union Home Minister said that, without ignoring the Pahalgam terrorist attack, an appropriate response was given through Operation Sindoor, sending a strong message to the world. He said that Operation Sindoor, launched by the Indian armed forces against terrorist camps after specific inputs, is a testament to the Modi government's zero tolerance policy against terrorism to the entire world. Shah said that the unity shown by the country at this time has boosted the morale of the countrymen. Amit Shah said that in the intervening night of May 6 to 7, 2025, the Indian armed forces attacked nine specific locations linked to terrorists, destroying their infrastructure. The Home Minister said that in the operation carried out by Indian armed forces, terrorist training camps, weapon bases, and hideouts of organisations such as Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Hizbul Mujahideen, and other terrorist groups were completely destroyed. Union Home Minister said that all states should make their preparations as per the guidelines issued for the mock drill. He said that arrangements should be made for smooth operation of essential services like hospitals, fire brigade etc. and uninterrupted supply of essential goods should be ensured. The Home Minister asked the states to keep SDRF, Civil Defence, Home Guards, NCC etc. on alert to deal with any situation. He said that efforts should be made to ensure public participation through citizens and non-governmental organisations. Amit Shah said that strict vigil should be kept on anti-national propaganda by unwanted elements on social and other media platforms, and prompt action should be taken in coordination with state governments and central agencies. The Home Minister said that every effort should be made to maintain seamless communication, and the security of vulnerable points should also be further strengthened. He asked the states to stop spreading unnecessary fear among the public and take steps to spread awareness among the people against rumours. He said that coordination between the local administration, the army and the paramilitary forces should be further enhanced. Senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), including the Union Home Secretary, Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Director General of the Border Security Force (BSF), and Director General of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), were also present. (ANI)
The members of the Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology, Chaired by Lok Sabha MP Nishikant Dubey, met on Wednesday to examine the issue of "Review of mechanism to curb Fake News". The Committee also took evidence from representatives of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and other stakeholders related to the media industry. In a post on X, Lok Sabha said, "The Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology, Chaired by Dr @nishikant_dubey, MP, met today to examine the issue of Review of mechanism to curb Fake News". "The Committee also took evidence from representatives of @MIB_India and other stakeholders related to the Media Industry," it added. In a post on X, Dubey said that the committee requested all the editors of newspapers and the heads of media channels to show only the news given by the government. "Today, in the meeting, our committee requested all the editors of newspapers and the heads of media channels to show only the news given by the government during our war with Pakistan. Our committee emphatically told all the journalists that first of all, you are Indians and our army is fighting the war," the BJP MP said. The statement comes after the Indian Armed Forces shared details about Operation Sindoor, a precision strikes on terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The information was shared in the media briefing consisting of Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Col Sophiya Qureshi. While speaking to the media, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Qureshi, said that 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday morning. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructures. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives," Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. (ANI)
The National Cadet Corps (NCC) Directorate Andhra Pradesh and Telangana conducted a large-scale mock drill on Wednesday, in collaboration with the Civil Administration and Fire Services Department, across six different locations in Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. According to an official release, the exercise aimed to strengthen inter-agency coordination and preparedness for emergency situations such as fires, natural disasters, and rescue operations. The drill featured live demonstrations by NCC cadets alongside civil and fire service personnel, showcasing their capabilities in handling crisis scenarios effectively. Addressing the media, Colonel Prashant Kumar, Group Commander of the NCC Directorate (AP&T), highlighted the importance of such initiatives in building a responsive and resilient support system. "The National Cadet Corps is committed to contributing meaningfully during times of crisis. Our cadets, officers, and staff are well-trained and always ready to assist the Civil Administration whenever required," he stated. This joint effort reinforced the NCC's critical role in public service and disaster management, while also underscoring the strong collaborative spirit between the armed forces, civil administration, and community stakeholders. Several states observed blackouts on Wednesday as part of the nationwide civil defence mock drills ordered by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The exercise, which involved scheduled blackouts at key locations, aimed to test the country's emergency preparedness against potential threats. From Rashtrapati Bhavan and Vijay Chowk in Delhi to Raj Bhavan in Patna, lights were switched off at several key places. The exercise involved scheduled blackouts at several major locations across the country. Cities like Barmer in Rajasthan, Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh, Surat in Gujarat, Shimla in Himachal Pradesh, and Patna in Bihar also took part in the drill. Earlier today, Mock drills were carried out across major cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Gwalior, and Jaipur, to evaluate local response capabilities to security challenges. This came after the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of Wednesday, targeting terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). This operation was a retaliatory response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including one Nepali national. Hours after India conducted a series of strikes on terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh held a media briefing in the national capital to share the details of the operation. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath lauded the Indian armed forces and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for their decisive and targeted response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam through Operation Sindoor under which nine terrorist infrastructures were blown off in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). "I express my heartfelt appreciation and congratulate the Chiefs of the three forces as well as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for the precision strikes carried out in Pakistan last night. Operation Sindoor reflects the true sentiment of PM Narendra Modi and our security forces towards our sisters who lost their husbands in the Pahalgam terror attack. Those who dared to kill the husbands of our sisters and mothers have now lost their entire family in the missile strikes," said CM Yogi Adityanath. CM Yogi Adityanath also oversaw the mock drill being held amid blackout, at Reserve Police Lines in Lucknow, as part of the mock drill ordered throughout the country by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Amid escalating tensions with Pakistan, full-scale civil defence mock drills are being held across the country on Wednesday. The MHA on Monday instructed all states and union territories to carry out the drills to evaluate their preparedness against "new and complex threats." The drills are being carried out across major cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Gwalior, and Jaipur, focusing on evaluating local response capabilities to security challenges. These drills serve as a critical step in evaluating India's preparedness for handling complex security situations, providing essential insights into the nation's ability to respond swiftly and effectively. After the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 Indian tourists, the Government of India announced a nationwide civil defence mock drill on Wednesday. The MHA directed all states and union territories to carry out the drills, which included simulations of blackouts, air raid sirens, evacuation procedures, and public training sessions aimed at preparing for war-like emergencies. The civil defence on Tuesday held a meeting with all its employees on the ways to protect citizens in case of an air attack in the city. Along with this, everyone was also given guidelines on protecting the public. The civil defence individuals were also made aware of activities to be undertaken by citizens during a sudden attack, and what precautions they should take to ensure minimum damage. Information on how to manage the crowd during a disaster was also provided. The measures include the provision of crash blackout measures, provision for early camouflaging of vital installations and updation of the evacuation plan and its rehearsal. Addressing a media briefing today on Operation Sindoor in which terror camps were targeted, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said Indian intelligence agencies have been monitoring terrorist activities and raised concerns regarding more terrorist attacks in India. Some videos of the strikes destroying terror camps were also shown at the briefing held in the national capital today. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday that the Indian Armed Forces displayed their valour and bravery in Operation Sindoor, scripting a new history, and took action against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and POJK with "precision, alertness and sensitivity." Speaking at an event for the inauguration of 50 Border Roads Organisation infrastructure projects across six states and two UTs, Rajnath Singh said that the armed forces showed sensitivity in ensuring that the civilian population is not affected during their action. He also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his full support to the armed forces. India's precision strikes on terrorist infrastructure came in response to the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructures. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives, she said. Col Sofiya Qureshi showed some videos of the strikes destroying terror camps. Fifteen innocent civilians have been killed and 43 injured in artillery firing by the Pakistan Army since yesterday night, which has hit civilian areas in Poonch and Tangdhar, defence sources said on Wednesday. Pakistan Army has targeted civilian areas in the border areas. The shelling caused panic among villagers and damaged several houses. After Operation Sindoor, the Pakistan Army continued its series of ceasefire violations by targeting civilian areas in the border areas of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. Officials said the shelling caused panic among villagers and damaged several houses. (ANI)
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Wednesday hailed Operation Sindoor, calling it a "closure" for the families affected by the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in which 26 civilians, including a Nepali national, were killed. Shivakumar emphasised that the Congress party stands firmly behind the Indian Armed Forces and the Centre, and stressed the need to set aside politics during moments of national crisis. "There is closure for the families of the victims. We cancelled a protest in Raichur against the price rise in view of the retaliatory attacks. We don't want to do politics on this issue, and we strongly stand behind the defence forces and the government," he said. In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the Deputy Chief Minister said, "Operation Sindhoor was an appropriate response to the cowardly terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir." Speaking ANI, Shivakumar said, "We are proud of our Defence forces. We salute them for protecting our nation. The Congress party fully stands behind them." When asked about the Pahalgam terrorist attack victims from Karnataka, he said, "Incidents like these should not been seen from the perspective of a state. It is a national tragedy. We are all together in this moment." In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday morning. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh announced that nine terror camps were targeted and destroyed by Indian forces in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families," Singh said. Col Sofiya Qureshi showed video footage of the destroyed sites, including camps in Muridke, where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab were trained, and others in Sialkot, Barnala, Kotli, and Mehmoona Joya. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the attack on Pahalgam aimed to derail the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. The government termed Operation Sindoor the deepest strike by Indian forces inside Pakistani territory since 1971. (ANI)
In the wake of Operation Sindoor, India's judiciary has expressed strong support and admiration for the Indian Armed Forces. The strategic counter-terrorism mission, which targeted several terror bases across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, was hailed as a bold and necessary action to safeguard national security. Prominent judges from India's judiciary weighed in, acknowledging the courage and commitment of the forces involved. Justice Suryakant praised the Indian Armed Forces for their bravery and dedication, stating that every citizen should feel proud of their service. He particularly commended their fearless approach in dismantling a base linked to anti-India activities, reinforcing their crucial role in protecting the nation. Delhi High Court Judge Justice Saurabh Banerjee echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the expertise and effort demonstrated by the military. He highlighted how the Indian Army has taken its motto--"With You. For You. Always."--to an even greater level, working with the whole nation, for the whole nation, and for the everlasting welfare of the country. Former Chief Justice of India NV Ramanna voiced concern over the developments in the Indian subcontinent, describing the situation as worrisome. He asserted that the government's decision to launch Operation Sindoor. On Wednesday, the Indian Armed Forces shared details about Operation Sindoor, a targeted strike mission to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The information was shared in the media briefing consisting of foreign secretary Vikram Misri, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Col Sophiya Qureshi. While speaking to the media, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Qureshi said that the 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. During the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of 2008 Mumbai attacks received training.Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. (ANI)
A comprehensive mock drill was conducted on Wednesday in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, as part of a nationwide initiative to assess emergency preparedness and response capabilities. Speaking to ANI, Ayodhya District Magistrate Nikhil Tikaram Funde stated that mock drills were carried out at four critical locations in the district. These included Ayodhya Airport, the Ram Janmabhoomi temple, and two other important places. "We are conducting mock drills at four places in the district today- At the airport, inside Ram Janmabhoomi temple and two main neighbourhoods," he said. Mock drills are being carried out across major cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Gwalior, and Jaipur, to evaluate local response capabilities to security challenges. This comes after the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Monday instructed all states and union territories to carry out the drills to evaluate their preparedness against "new and complex threats." The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of Wednesday, targeting terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). This operation was a retaliatory response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including one Nepali national. Hours after India conducted a series of strikes on terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh held a media briefing in the national capital to share the details of the operation. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media alongside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, stated that 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Singh reported that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She emphasised that the locations were chosen to ensure there was no damage to civilians or their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Praising the Indian defence forces for carrying out precision strikes on terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, Congress leader Rajeev Shukla described the operation as "tit for tat" and stated that an essential lesson has been taught to Pakistan. The Congress MP further reiterated the opposition's full support for the government, saying, "I would like to congratulate the Indian Army for the great job. This is a tit for tat, an essential lesson taught to Pakistan. All political parties are together in this, and we will support whatever the government decides... Nobody is asking for proof..." Shukla told reporters. Congress leader Neeraj Kundan also saluted and lauded the Indian defence forces for these precision strikes. "I salute the Indian army as they have repeated the history... They destroyed the terror bases of Pakistan after the heinous act committed in Pahalgam... Every Indian is proud today, and the deaths of tourists in Pahalgam were avenged today..." Kundan told ANI. Speaking on the firing and shelling by Pakistan military across LoC, he said, "... Every resident of the border areas stands in support of the army and wants them to give a befitting reply to Pakistan... A golden opportunity lies with our armed forces to uproot militancy promoted by Pakistan." Meanwhile, several states observed blackouts as part of the nationwide civil defence mock drills ordered by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The exercise, which involved scheduled blackouts at key locations, aimed to test the country's emergency preparedness against potential threats. From Rashtrapati Bhavan and Vijay Chowk in Delhi to Raj Bhavan in Patna, lights were switched off at several key places. The exercise involved scheduled blackouts at several major locations across the country. Cities like Barmer in Rajasthan, Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh, Surat in Gujarat, Shimla in Himachal Pradesh, and Patna in Bihar also took part in the drill. Earlier today, mock drills were carried out across major cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Gwalior, and Jaipur, to evaluate local response capabilities to security challenges. This came after the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of Wednesday, targeting terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). This operation was a retaliatory response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including one Nepali national. Hours after India conducted a series of strikes on terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh held a media briefing in the national capital to share the details of the operation. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media alongside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, stated that 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Singh reported that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She emphasised that the locations were chosen to ensure there was no damage to civilians or their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
The Election Commission of India has taken an unprecedented step of training field-level election functionaries from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry in the Tamil language. Over 290 participants comprising 264 BLO Supervisors, 14 EROs, two DEOs and other officials are part of this mixed-batch training programme at IIIDEM (India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management), Delhi, according to the Election Commission. In his inaugural address, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar said that the BLOs are the first interface of the Election Commission of India with the voters and have a vital role in ensuring correct and updated electoral rolls. With this, nearly 2,300 participants have benefited from intensive training programmes being organised at IIIDEM (India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management) during the past few weeks. This two-day training programme is in line with the expansive training programme to train election functionaries at all levels, including over 1 lakh BLOs in the country in the next few years. The BLO supervisors are being trained through interactive sessions, role plays to ensure accurate filling of various forms, including Form 6, 7 and 8. The module includes practical training in the use of IT solutions. These BLO supervisors are being equipped as Assembly Level Master Trainers to train other BLOs. The participants were also familiarised with the provisions of first and second appeals against the final published electoral rolls with the District Magistrate (DM or an officer of equivalent rank) under section 24(a) of RP Act 1950 and Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the State or Union Territories under section 24(b) respectively. It may be recalled that no appeals were filed from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry after the completion of the Special Summary Revision (SSR) exercise as of January 6 to 10, 2025. (ANI)
Pakistan Army's shelling has caused huge damage in civilian areas of Poonch, leading to the death of nearly 12 people in the district and a shell hit a corner of Shri Guru Singh Sabha Gurudwara, President of District Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee Narinder Singh said on Wednesday. He said one shell hit Geeta Bhawan and one shell hit a mosque also, killing a teacher in the mosque. "Our neighbour has no sense at all, has made a huge attack on civilians. Civilians have suffered huge damage," Narinder Singh said in a self-made video. He urged the Jammu and Kashmir government and the Centre to make efforts so that situation improves. Narinder Singh said locals were in panic and many had left their residences. "Nearly 12 people have died in Poonch district due to cross-border shelling... In Poonch proper five people of the Sikh community and rest from the Muslim community have died. A shell hit one corner of our Gurudwara Shri Guru Singh Sabha, because of which one door and a few glasses were shattered... Reports are being circulated that shelling has caused heavy losses to the Gurudwara, which are not correct. Since it is a congested area, one shell has hit Geeta Bhawan and one shell hit a mosque also, killing one teacher in the mosque," Narinder Singh said. Earlier, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Singh Badal strongly condemned the inhuman attack by Pakistani forces on the sacred Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Poonch. Condemning the inhuman attack, Badal stated that three Sikhs have lost their lives. As per Badal's office, the deceased have been identified as Amrik Singh Ji (a raagi Singh), Bhai Amarjeet Singh and Ranjit Singh. The SAD leader expressed solidarity with the bereaved families and demanded adequate compensation to support them in their time of grief. "Strongly condemn the inhuman attack by Pakistani forces on the sacred Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Poonch, in which three innocent Gursikhs, including Bhai Amrik Singh Ji (a raagi Singh), Bhai Amarjeet Singh and Bhai Ranjit Singh lost their lives. The Shiromani Akali Dal expresses complete solidarity with the families of the deceased Gursikhs and prays for peace for the departed and courage for their friends and loved ones," he said in a post on X. "We demand that the martyrs be honored for their sacrifice and that the bereaved families receive adequate compensation to support them in their time of grief. The Sikhs have always been, and will continue to be, the sword arm of the country. We stand like a rock with our armed forces. Although the Shiromani Akali Dal and our country stand for peace, if our honor is challenged by the enemy, we need no reminder to fulfill our patriotic duties," Badal added. After Operation Sindoor, the Pakistan Army continued its series of ceasefire violations by targeting civilian areas in the border areas of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. Officials said the shelling caused panic among villagers and damaged several houses. Visuals showed damaged civilian infrastructure, shattered window panes, cracked walls, and debris scattered across the lanes of the village. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah held an emergency meeting with officials over the current situation in border areas. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday that the Indian Armed Forces displayed their valour and bravery in Operation Sindoor, scripting a new history, and took action against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and POJK with "precision, alertness and sensitivity". Speaking at an event for the inauguration of 50 Border Roads Organisation infrastructure projects across six states and two UTs, Rajnath Singh said that the armed forces showed sensitivity in ensuring that the civilian population is not affected during their action. He also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his full support to the armed forces. India's precision strikes on terrorist infrastructure came in response to the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed. "You know that today, under the guidance of PM Narendra Modi, our Indian armed forces have made us all proud... Last night, our Indian armed forces displayed their valour and bravery, and scripted a new history. Indian armed forces took action with precision, alertness and sensitiveness. The targets we decided where accurately demolished with precision.. Our armed forces also showed sensitivity in ensuring that the civilian population is not affected at all," Rajnath Singh said. "In a way, we can say that Indian jawans showed precision, alertness and humanity. On behalf of the entire country, I congratulate the jawans and officers," he added. At a joint briefing on Operation Sindoor in which nine terrorist camps were targeted with precision strikes, Foreign Secretay Vikram Misri said the terror attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family. "The family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. Misri said that Indian intelligence agencies had been monitoring terrorist activities and raised concerns regarding more terrorist attacks in India. "Our intelligence indicated that further attacks against India are impending. Thus, compulsion, both to deter and prevent and hence earlier this morning, India exercised its right to respond to deter such more cross-border terrorism... Our actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible. They focused on dismantling terrorists' infrastructure," he said. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructures. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives, she said. Col Sofiya Qureshi showed some videos of the strikes destroying terror camps. The Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' early Wednesday. Twenty-six people were killed in the Pahalgam terror attack. The government had said that the perpetrators will face severe punishment. (ANI)
Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy chaired a review meeting on Wednesday and issued orders for the detention of Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals who are residing illegally in the state. According to the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), CM Revanth Reddy has issued orders to police officials to detain Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals who are residing illegally. Additionally, leaves of the employees of all departments who engage in emergency services have been cancelled. Earlier in the day, in a significant civil defence preparedness move, authorities conducted a comprehensive emergency mock drill in the Golconda area of Hyderabad as part of a nationwide initiative to enhance readiness against emerging threats. The exercise, held at Evelon Apartment, saw enthusiastic participation from a large number of residents who were trained on how to respond calmly and effectively in emergency situations. The drill was conducted in collaboration with multiple agencies, including the Fire Department, National Cadet Corps (NCC), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), medical teams, police, and electricity department officials. These teams demonstrated various emergency procedures, including evacuation, first aid, and safety protocols, ensuring that residents were equipped with essential knowledge for handling potential threats. Amid escalating tensions with Pakistan, full-scale civil defence mock drills are being held across the country on Wednesday to assess India's preparedness for emergency response. This comes a day after the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) instructed all states and union territories to carry out the drills to evaluate their preparedness against "new and complex threats." The drills are being carried out across major cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Gwalior, and Jaipur, focusing on evaluating local response capabilities to security challenges. Twenty-six people were killed in the April 22 terror attack at Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. The government had said that the perpetrators would face severe punishment. Soon after the focused strikes on terrorists and terrorist infrastructures as part of Operation Sindoor, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval spoke with his counterparts from the United States, Japan and several other countries and briefed them about India's "measured, non-escalatory" action, sources said. Addressing a media briefing today on Operation Sindoor in which terror camps were targeted, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said Indian intelligence agencies have been monitoring terrorist activities and raised concerns regarding more terrorist attacks in India. Some videos of the strikes destroying terror camps were also shown at the briefing held in the national capital today. (ANI)
In the wake of Operation Sindoor launched by the Indian Armed Forces, Uttarakhand Police has placed all its units across the state on high alert to ensure public safety and vigilance. Sensitive locations, including religious sites and interstate borders, are being closely monitored, while a comprehensive verification campaign is underway statewide. Director General of Police (DGP) Deepam Seth stated that, for the ongoing Chardham Yatra, teams of ATS Guldar and Central Paramilitary Forces have been deployed at designated locations alongside the State Police, PAC, and SDRF. Instructions have been issued to maintain heightened vigilance along the Indo-Nepal border and to increase joint patrolling with the SSB. The DGP further noted that social media platforms are under continuous surveillance. Given the current security scenario, the public has been urged to share posts on social media with restraint and responsibility. Strict action will be taken against those identified for posting misleading content or spreading rumours. Meanwhile, a Civil Defence Mock Drill, organised for citizen safety in Dehradun on Wednesday under the guidelines of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, was monitored from the State and District Emergency Operations Centre at USDMA. Secretary Home Shailesh Bagauli, Director General of Police Deepam Seth, and Secretary Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Vinod Suman closely oversaw the drill from SEOC. During the drill, Secretary Shailesh Bagauli obtained detailed information from DM Savin Bansal, present at the District Emergency Centre, regarding the status of incidents, relief work processes, shelter capacity, staging area arrangements, and activation of the Incident Response System (IRS). He emphasised that the IRS is a robust system, and the role of every officer, from the state to the tehsil level, should be clearly defined. DGP Deepam Seth gathered information from field officers about the availability of reserve resources and equipment and issued instructions to maintain an orderly traffic system. Secretary Disaster Management Vinod Suman directed that observations from the mock drill be identified, and a detailed report be prepared along with a debriefing. During the relay, SEOC ensured that necessary resources and assistance reached incident sites promptly. (ANI)
Following the Operation Sindoor, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav on Wednesday expressed pride in India's security forces and stated that they have always given a befitting response to terrorism and separatism. Yadav emphasised the nation's commitment to peace while standing firm against unfair actions. He also expressed his support for the armed forces and the Indian government. Speaking to ANI, Tejashwi Yadav said, "We are proud of our security forces. People of our country and our security forces have never accepted terrorism and separatism. We have always given them a befitting reply. We believe in peace and never provoke anyone, but if someone is unfair to us and does something wrong, we know how to give a befitting reply. We stand with our armed forces and we salute them... We stand with the Indian government..." The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of Wednesday, targeting terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). This operation was a retaliatory response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including one Nepali national. Hours after India conducted a series of strikes on terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh held a media briefing in the national capital to share the details of the operation. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media alongside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Colonel Qureshi, stated that 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Singh reported that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She emphasised that the locations were chosen to ensure there was no damage to civilians or their infrastructure."Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Colonel Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Colonel Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. (ANI)
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday chaired a meeting in the national capital with the Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors of border states adjoining Pakistan and Nepal. In a post on X, the Union Home Minister said that all the Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors congratulated the armed forces for giving a "befitting reply" to the perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack. "Chaired a meeting with the Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors of border states adjoining Pakistan and Nepal. All the Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors congratulated PM Shri @narendramodi Ji and our armed forces for giving a befitting reply to the perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack through the historic success of Operation Sindoor," Shah said on X. https://x.com/AmitShah/status/1920143073138577739 The meeting was attended via video conferencing by the Lieutenant Governors of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, the Chief Ministers of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and West Bengal, and a representative from the Sikkim government, according to the Ministry of Home Affairs. In the meeting, Shah said that after the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that the country would give a befitting reply to the perpetrators and supporters of the terror attack. The Home Minister expressed gratitude for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's firm resolve and decision regarding Operation Sindoor. He stated that Operation Sindoor is a befitting reply from Bharat to those who dare to challenge India's borders, military, and citizens. He said that Operation Sindoor, launched by the Indian armed forces against terrorist camps after specific inputs, is a testament to the Modi government's zero tolerance policy against terrorism. Shah said that the unity shown by the country at this time has boosted the morale of the countrymen. Amit Shah said that in the intervening night of May 6 to 7, 2025, the Indian armed forces attacked nine specific locations linked to terrorists, destroying their infrastructure. The Home Minister said that in the operation carried out by Indian armed forces, terrorist training camps, weapon bases, and hideouts of organisations such as Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Hizbul Mujahideen, and other terrorist groups were completely destroyed. Union Home Minister said that all states should make their preparations as per the guidelines issued for the mock drill. He said that arrangements should be made for smooth operation of essential services like hospitals, fire brigade etc. and uninterrupted supply of essential goods should be ensured. The Home Minister asked the states to keep SDRF, Civil Defence, Home Guards, NCC etc., on alert to deal with any situation. He said that efforts should be made to ensure public participation through citizens and non-governmental organisations. The Home Minister said that every effort should be made to maintain seamless communication, and the security of vulnerable points should also be further strengthened. He asked the states to stop spreading unnecessary fear among the public and take steps to spread awareness among the people against rumours. On Wednesday, the Indian Armed Forces shared details about Operation Sindoor, precise strikes to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The information was shared in the media briefing consisting of foreign secretary Vikram Misri, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Col Sophiya Qureshi. While speaking to the media, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Qureshi said that the 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the 26 victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. (ANI)
Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal condemned the firing by Pakistan in Poonch, calling it an act by an "inhuman power" aimed at inflicting greater pain on India. In a post on X, Venugopal stated that India stood united against such heinous acts. "Pakistan's relentless attack on innocent Indians - this time in Poonch, killing 15 civilians and injuring many more - shows that it is an inhuman power looking to inflict greater pain on India. India is united against their heinous acts, and the world is watching as we continue to suffer at the hands of a nation that promotes terror as a tool of its strategic vision," the post read. He also praised the Indian armed forces and warned that such acts would not be tolerated. "Our armed forces are the best in the world, and such acts will not be taken lying down," the post further read. Meanwhile, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal had also condemned the shelling in Poonch and termed the incident as "highly condemnable" and "shameful for humanity." The AAP convenor further paid tribute to the victims and extended his condolences to the bereaved families. In a social media post on X, Kejriwal wrote, "The bomb attack by Pakistan on Gurdwara Sahib located near LOC in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir is highly condemnable and shameful for humanity. The death of Raggi Singh, Bhai Amrik Singh, Amarjit Singh, Ranjit Singh and Ruby Kaur Ji in this attack is extremely sad. We pay tribute to all the departed souls and express our deepest condolences to their families. We pray to Guru Sahib Ji to give place to the departed souls in his feet and give strength to the family members to bear this unbearable pain. (ANI)
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal has condemned Pakistan's shelling on Shri Guru Singh Sabha Gurudwara in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch, terming the incident as "highly condemnable" and "shameful for humanity." The AAP convenor further paid tribute to the victims and extended his condolences to the bereaved families. In a social media post on X, Kejriwal wrote, "The bomb attack by Pakistan on Gurdwara Sahib located near LOC in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir is highly condemnable and shameful for humanity. The death of Raggi Singh, Bhai Amrik Singh, Amarjit Singh, Ranjit Singh and Ruby Kaur Ji in this attack is extremely sad. We pay tribute to all the departed souls and express our deepest condolences to their families. We pray to Guru Sahib Ji to give place to the departed souls in his feet and give strength to the family members to bear this unbearable pain. https://x.com/arvindkejriwal/status/1920118006178594947 Earlier today, President of District Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee Narinder Singh said on Wednesday that Pakistan Army's shelling has caused huge damage in civilian areas of Poonch, leading to the death of nearly 12 people in the district, and a shell hit a corner of Shri Guru Singh Sabha Gurudwara. He said one shell hit Geeta Bhawan and one shell hit a mosque, also killing a teacher in the mosque. "Our neighbour has no sense at all, has made a huge attack on civilians. Civilians have suffered huge damage," Narinder Singh said in a self-made video. He urged the Jammu and Kashmir government and the Centre to make efforts to improve the situation. Narinder Singh said locals were in panic, and many had left their residences. "Nearly 12 people have died in Poonch district due to cross-border shelling... In Poonch proper, five people of the Sikh community and the rest from the Muslim community have died. A shell hit one corner of our Gurudwara Shri Guru Singh Sabha, because of which one door and a few glasses were shattered... Reports are being circulated that shelling has caused heavy losses to the Gurudwara, which are not correct. Since it is a congested area, one shell has hit Geeta Bhawan and one shell hit a mosque also, killing one teacher in the mosque," Narinder Singh said. Earlier, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Singh Badal strongly condemned the inhuman attack by Pakistani forces on the sacred Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Poonch. Condemning the inhuman attack, Badal stated that three Sikhs have lost their lives. As per Badal's office, the deceased have been identified as Amrik Singh Ji (a raagi Singh), Bhai Amarjeet Singh and Ranjit Singh. The SAD leader expressed solidarity with the bereaved families and demanded adequate compensation to support them in their time of grief. "Strongly condemn the inhuman attack by Pakistani forces on the sacred Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Poonch, in which three innocent Gursikhs, including Bhai Amrik Singh Ji (a raagi Singh), Bhai Amarjeet Singh and Bhai Ranjit Singh lost their lives. The Shiromani Akali Dal expresses complete solidarity with the families of the deceased Gursikhs and prays for peace for the departed and courage for their friends and loved ones," he said in a post on X. "We demand that the martyrs be honored for their sacrifice and that the bereaved families receive adequate compensation to support them in their time of grief. The Sikhs have always been, and will continue to be, the sword arm of the country. We stand like a rock with our armed forces. Although the Shiromani Akali Dal and our country stand for peace, if our honour is challenged by the enemy, we need no reminder to fulfil our patriotic duties," Badal added. After Operation Sindoor, the Pakistan Army continued its series of ceasefire violations by targeting civilian areas in the border areas of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. Officials said the shelling caused panic among villagers and damaged several houses. Visuals showed damaged civilian infrastructure, shattered window panes, cracked walls, and debris scattered across the lanes of the village. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah held an emergency meeting with officials over the current situation in border areas. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday that the Indian Armed Forces displayed their valour and bravery in Operation Sindoor, scripting a new history, and took action against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and POJK with "precision, alertness and sensitivity". At a joint briefing on Operation Sindoor in which nine terrorist camps were targeted with precision strikes, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the terror attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family. "The family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives, she said. Col Sofiya Qureshi showed some videos of the strikes destroying terror camps. The Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' early Wednesday. Twenty-six people were killed in the Pahalgam terror attack. The government had said that the perpetrators would face severe punishment. (ANI)
Congress leader Tikaram Jully on Wednesday, stated that the nation is adequately prepared for any eventuality, highlighting that mock drills are currently being conducted. He further said that the people of the nation are united in any case and stand as a force. "Mock drills are being carried out... Any kind of situation can develop. People are united in any case and stand with the country and the forces... The way terrorists killed our people on our land, and widowed several women, every Indian felt an indescribable pain. Our leader, Rahul Gandhi, has clearly said that we will support the government," he said. In Rajasthan, a comprehensive mock drill was conducted carried out in various places, as a part of a nationwide exercise ordered by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The MHA had instructed all states and union territories to conduct mock drills to evaluate their readiness in dealing with "new and complex threats." Several states observed blackouts as part of the nationwide civil defence mock drills ordered by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The exercise, which involved scheduled blackouts at key locations, aimed to test the country's emergency preparedness against potential threats. Mock drills are being carried out across major cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Gwalior, and Jaipur, focusing on evaluating local response capabilities to security challenges. The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of Wednesday, targeting terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). This operation was a retaliatory response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including one Nepali national. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
National Security Advisory Board (NSAB) member Tilak Devasher on Wednesday applauded the Indian Armed Forces for the successful execution of Operation Sindoor, which targeted nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). Speaking to ANI, Devasher praised the name of the operation, calling it "fantastic". "The name of the Operation Sindoor, I think, was a fantastic name, as for the Indian culture and civilisation, the meaning of sindoor and what it means to married women in our civilisation. So the government has articulated those feelings of those poor ladies whose husbands were killed in front of their eyes, what it means to them." "So I think that's an amazing title for the operation that was given. I think India has gone beyond Pakistan's doctrine that terror under the nuclear overhang or without a conventional response, we can continue to do that," he added. Devasher highlighted that the Indian armed forces did not strike any military installations or civilian targets. "We had established deterrence after Balakot, but that deterrence seems to have broken down. Pakistan decided to gamble once again to resort to terrorism, and India has demolished that belief, and not one, not two, but 9 camps have been struck in the so-called, you know, in POJK as well as in mainstream Punjab," he added. "The Indian armed forces have taken care that only the terror camps have been struck. No military installation has been struck, and no civilian targets have been struck. So I think this has demolished a lot of the doctrines that Pakistan was harbouring that they can continue to bleed India through terrorism and that India will not react," Devasher further asserted. On further escalation of the conflict, he said, "Pakistan will certainly react, and I think the reaction will be within 24 to 36 hours, but Pakistan's problem is going to be. What targets do they pick in India? There are no terror training camps in India. So what do they target? If they target the civilian population or they target military targets. Then India will go up the escalatory ladder, and we hit them back." On Wednesday, the Indian Armed Forces shared details about Operation Sindoor, a precise strike mission to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The information was shared in the media briefing consisting of Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Col Sophiya Qureshi. While speaking to the media, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Qureshi said that the 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Meanwhile, fifteen innocent civilians have been killed and 43 injured in artillery firing by the Pakistan Army since yesterday night, which has hit civilian areas in Poonch and Tangdhar, defence sources said on Wednesday. Pakistan Army has targeted civilian areas in the border areas. The shelling caused panic among villagers and damaged several houses. Officials said the shelling caused panic among villagers and damaged several houses. Shelling by Pakistan damaged civilian infrastructure, shattered window panes and cracked walls. Visuals from the scene showed damaged civilian infrastructure, shattered window panes, cracked walls, and debris scattered across the lanes of the village. (ANI)
On the occasion of Red Cross Day, the Tripura branch of the Indian Red Cross Society organized a state-level blood donation camp aimed at encouraging voluntary blood donation among citizens. The initiative saw enthusiastic participation from local residents, volunteers, and youth organisations. In light of the current national scenario and growing emphasis on disaster preparedness, the state administration also carried out a comprehensive mock drill across Tripura. The objective of the drill was to raise awareness and train people on how to respond during emergencies effectively, ensure personal safety, and assist others in times of crisis. Authorities have urged all residents to actively participate in such initiatives, which not only strengthen community resilience but also promote a spirit of solidarity and service. Indrasena Reddy Nallu, Governor of Tripura, appealed to the people in Tripura to come forward and donate blood. "Today is Red Cross Day. On this occasion, the Tripura branch has organised a blood donation camp. I would like to request everyone in Tripura to come forward and donate blood. I hope everyone will participate and contribute to making this initiative a success," the Governor said in an exclusive byte to ANI. The Governor also requested citizens to participate in the mock drills being held to understand on how to stay safe. "Considering the current situation in the country, a mock drill will also be conducted across the state today. The purpose of this drill is to prepare ourselves for any kind of emergency--how to respond effectively, ensure our own safety, and help others in need," he further stated. Speaking on the occasion, a spokesperson said, "We appeal to everyone in Tripura to come forward and donate blood. At the same time, we request citizens to participate in the mock drill to understand how to stay safe and help others during emergencies. Together, we can make a real difference." The day's events highlighted the importance of humanitarian service, disaster readiness, and collective responsibility. (ANI)
Akal Takht, the supreme temporal body of Sikhs, has strongly condemned the attack by Pakistani forces on the Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch. "Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj, officiating Jathedar of Akal Takht Sahib, has strongly condemned the attack in the Poonch region of Kashmir, where civilians, including Sikhs, were killed and a gurdwara was attacked amid rising tensions and cross-border attacks between India and Pakistan," reads an official press release. According to the press release, Jathedar Gargajj stated that during Pakistan's retaliatory shelling in Poonch, following India's Operation Sindoor, the central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha was hit. During the attacks in Poonch, three Gursikhs were killed - Bhai Amrik Singh (a raagi), Bhai Amarjeet Singh (a retired army soldier), and Bhai Ranjit Singh (a local shopkeeper). Additionally, reports have emerged of a Sikh woman named Ruby Kaur being killed in the Mankote area. Other civilian casualties in Poonch have also come to light. The Jathedar offered prayers for the spiritual peace of those who lost their lives and strength for their families to endure the loss. He emphasised that both nations' governments must immediately make sincere efforts to restore peace. "War always severely harms humanity, often resulting in the deaths of many innocent people," he said. "Therefore, every possible effort must be made to resolve the current situation peacefully." Jathedar Gargajj also noted that since 1947, both countries have suffered immense losses due to ongoing hostilities, particularly the Hindu and Sikh communities in Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir. He urged border residents to support one another during these tense times, seek solace in Gurbani, and pray to the Akal Purakh (the One Timeless being) for peace and strength. Pakistan Army's shelling has caused huge damage in civilian areas of Poonch, leading to the death of nearly 12 people in the district, and a shell hit a corner of Shri Guru Singh Sabha Gurudwara, President of District Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee Narinder Singh said on Wednesday. He said one shell hit Geeta Bhawan and one shell hit a mosque, also killing a teacher in the mosque. He said that the neighbouring country has no sense as it has made a huge attack on civilians, which has led to a lot of damage. He urged the Jammu and Kashmir government and the Centre to make efforts to improve the situation. Narinder Singh said locals were in panic, and many had left their residences. "It is a very painful tragedy...Nearly 12 people have died in Poonch district due to cross-border shelling... In proper Poonch, five from the Sikh community the rest from the Muslim community have died. A shell hit one corner of our Gurudwara Shri Guru Singh Sabha, because of which one door and a few glasses were shattered... Reports are being circulated that shelling has caused heavy losses to the Gurudwara, which are not correct. Since it is a congested area, one shell has hit Geeta Bhawan and one shell hit a mosque also, killing one teacher in the mosque," Narinder Singh said in a self-made video. Earlier, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Singh Badal strongly condemned the inhuman attack by Pakistani forces on the sacred Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Poonch. After Operation Sindoor, the Pakistan Army continued its series of ceasefire violations by targeting civilian areas in the border areas of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. Officials said the shelling caused panic among villagers and damaged several houses. Visuals showed damaged civilian infrastructure, shattered window panes, cracked walls, and debris scattered across the lanes of the village. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah held an emergency meeting with officials over the current situation in border areas. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday that the Indian Armed Forces displayed their valour and bravery in Operation Sindoor, scripting a new history, and took action against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and POJK with "precision, alertness and sensitivity". At a joint briefing on Operation Sindoor in which nine terrorist camps were targeted with precision strikes, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the terror attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family. "The family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. Misri said that Indian intelligence agencies had been monitoring terrorist activities and raised concerns regarding more terrorist attacks in India. "Our intelligence indicated that further attacks against India are impending. Thus, compulsion, both to deter and prevent and hence earlier this morning, India exercised its right to respond to deter such more cross-border terrorism... Our actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible. They focused on dismantling terrorists' infrastructure," he said. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructures. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives, she said. Col Sofiya Qureshi showed some videos of the strikes destroying terror camps. The Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' early Wednesday. Twenty-six people were killed in the Pahalgam terror attack. The government had said that the perpetrators will face severe punishment. (ANI)
The White Knight Corps on Wednesday confirmed the supreme sacrifice of an Indian soldier who lost his life during heavy shelling by the Pakistan Army along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. Lance Naik Dinesh Kumar of the 5 Field Regiment was killed in the shelling that took place in the early hours of Wednesday morning. Confirming his death, the White Knight Corps posted on social media platform X, "#GOC and all ranks of #WhiteKnightCorps salute the supreme sacrifice of Lance Naik Dinesh Kumar of 5 Fd Regt, who laid down his life on 07 May 25 during Pakistan Army shelling." They also expressed solidarity with the civilians affected by the cross-border attacks. "We also stand in solidarity with all victims of the targeted attacks on innocent civilians in #Poonch Sector," the post further said. Pakistan Army began shelling civilian areas in Poonch, Tangdhar and other border regions on the night of May 6, and continued firing through May 7. The shelling caused severe damage to homes, forced many locals to flee, and injured several people. Locals, however, remained firm and backed the Indian Army's Operation Sindoor. The operation targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The injured are being treated at multiple medical facilities. Despite Operation Sindoor, Pakistan continued its ceasefire violations on Wednesday, shelling more civilian areas and creating panic among villagers. According to defence sources, during the night of May 6 and 7, Pakistan carried out arbitrary firing, including heavy artillery shelling, from posts along the LoC and the International Border. Shelling was also reported in the Poonch and Rajouri sectors following the operation. A local resident said, "We will not leave the place and support the Indian Army. The ceasefire may be violated today as well... The operation is a befitting reply... We have sent the women and children from here, but the men will stay here." Defence sources added that 15 civilians have died and 43 have been injured in the artillery shelling by the Pakistan Army since last night. (ANI)
Pakistan claimed to have launched counter strikes following Indian missile attacks onterror targets inside Pakistan. Director-General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lt General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, said, "All of our air force jets are airborne." "Pakistan will respond to this [attack] at a time and place of its choosing," he added as quoted by Geo News. Pakistan's military formally confirmed the missile strikes by India on the three cities. During his press conference, Lt Gen Chaudhry stated, "Some time ago from now, India launched air strikes on Subhanullah mosque in Bahwalpur's Ahmed East area, Kotli and Muzaffarabad at three places from the air." Chaudhry confirmed that damage assessments were ongoing and that further details would be released in due course. News agency, Reuters reported loud explosions just after midnight near Muzaffarabad in PoJK, followed by a citywide blackout. Tensions between India and Pakistan have been intensifying since the Pahalgam terror attack which killed 26 people, including one Nepali citizen. India has blamed Pakistan for the incident. Islamabad has denied involvement and offered to participate in an independent and credible investigation. Earlier, India's Ministry of Defence announced the launch of "Operation Sindoor," a series of targeted strikes on what it described as terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. "A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'OPERATION SINDOOR', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," the ministry said. According to the ministry, nine sites were targeted with precision. "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution." The operation was described as a direct response to the "barbaric" Pahalgam attack. A detailed briefing is expected later. The Indian Army, in a post on X, declared: "Justice is served. Jai Hind!" An earlier post read: Ready to strike, trained to win. (ANI)
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday responded to reports of Indian missile strikes inside Pakistani territory, saying that the development was expected and urging a swift end to hostilities. "We just heard about it as we were walking through the doors of the Oval. Just heard about it. I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. They've been fighting for a long time. They've been fighting for many, many decades. And centuries, actually, if you think about it. I hope it ends very quickly," Trump said. The US State Department also acknowledged the situation but refrained from offering an immediate assessment. In a statement to ANI, a State Department spokesperson said, "We are aware of the reports, however we have no assessment to offer at this time. This remains an evolving situation, and we are closely monitoring developments." Meanwhile, Pakistan's military confirmed that Indian missile strikes had hit Muzaffarabad, Kotli, and the Ahmed East area of Bahawalpur. Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, stated: "Some time ago from now, the cowardly enemy India launched air strikes on Subhanullah mosque in Bahwalpur's Ahmed East area, Kotli and Muzaffarabad at three places from the air." Lt Gen Chaudhry said Pakistan Air Force jets had scrambled in response and that the strikes were launched from within Indian airspace. "All of our air force jets are airborne." India's Ministry of Defence earlier confirmed the launch of "Operation Sindoor," targeting nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted," the ministry said, adding that the strikes were in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen. (ANI)
Shortly after India launched air strikes on Pakistan Terror infrastructure, news agency, Reuters reported loud explosions just after midnight near Muzaffarabad in PoJK, followed by a citywide blackout.Pakistan Following this an under pressure Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared that Pakistan is delivering a "forceful response" to what he described was an act of war. https://x.com/CMShehbaz/status/1919868061425008992 In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Sharif said, "Pakistan has every right to respond forcefully to this act of war imposed by India, and a forceful response is being given." He affirmed national unity in the face of rising tensions and backed the country's military efforts. "The entire nation stands with the Pakistani armed forces, and the morale and spirit of the entire Pakistani nation are high," Sharif stated. The remarks followed confirmation from Pakistan's military that Indian missile strikes had hit three locations - Muzaffarabad, Kotli, and the Ahmed East area of Bahawalpur. According to Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), "Some time ago from now, India launched air strikes on Subhanullah mosque in Bahwalpur's Ahmed East area, Kotli and Muzaffarabad at three places from the air." He noted that Pakistan Air Force jets were airborne in response, "Pakistan will respond to this at a time and place of its own choosing." India's Ministry of Defence confirmed that the strikes were part of "Operation Sindoor," targeting nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The ministry stated, "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted." The operation followed the "barbaric" Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen. A detailed briefing on the operation is expected later. Meanwhile, the Indian Army posted on X: "Justice is served. Jai Hind!" (ANI)
Shortly after Indian missile strikes targets 9 key sites linked to terror groups deep inside Pakistan, the Pakistani side has described the strike as an 'act of war'. Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Wednesday also claimed that Pakistan reserves the right to respond in accordance with international law. "In an unprovoked and blatant act of war, the Indian Air Force, while remaining within Indian airspace, has violated Pakistan's sovereignty using standoff weapons, targeting civilian population across international border in Muridke and Bahawalpur, and across Line of Control in Kotli and Muzaffarabad, Jammu and Kashmir," Dar said in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter). https://x.com/MIshaqDar50/status/1919884891908391388 "This act of aggression has also caused grave threat to commercial air traffic. We strongly condemn India's action, which is a violation of the UN Charter, international law, and established norms of inter-state relations," he added. Dar's statement follows confirmation from the Pakistani military that Indian missile strikes hit Muzaffarabad, Kotli, and the Ahmed East area of Bahawalpur. Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, "All of our air force jets are airborne, Pakistan will respond to this at a time and place of its own choosing." India's Ministry of Defence confirmed that the strikes were part of "Operation Sindoor," targeting nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The ministry stated, "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted." The operation followed the "barbaric" Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen. US President Donald Trump also responded to reports of Indian missile strikes inside Pakistani territory, saying that the development was expected and urging a swift end to hostilities. "We just heard about it as we were walking through the doors of the Oval. Just heard about it. I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. They've been fighting for a long time. They've been fighting for many, many decades. And centuries, actually, if you think about it. I hope it ends very quickly," Trump said. The US State Department also acknowledged the situation but refrained from offering an immediate assessment. (ANI)
The Consulate General of India in New York issued an official statement on social media, outlining India's position following precision airstrikes on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The statement emphasised India's evidence-backed justification for the operation and reiterated the country's commitment to non-escalatory action. "Terrorists killed 26 civilians in Jammu & Kashmir on April 22 in a brutal and heinous attack," the post began. "India has credible leads, technical inputs, testimony of the survivors and other evidence pointing towards the clear involvement of Pakistan-based terrorists in this attack." The consulate noted that India had expected Pakistan to take action against those responsible. "It was expected that Pakistan would take action against terrorists and the infrastructure that supports them. Instead, during the fortnight that has gone by, Pakistan has indulged in denial and made allegations of false flag operations against India." "India's actions have been focused and precise. They were measured, responsible and designed to be non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani civilian, economic or military targets have been hit. Only known terror camps were targeted," the post added. According to the consulate, shortly after the strikes, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval briefed US NSA and Secretary of State Marco Rubio about the nature of the operations and the rationale behind them. Earlier, Pakistan's military confirmed that Indian missiles struck Muzaffarabad, Kotli, and Bahawalpur. DG ISPR Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said all Pakistani air force jets had been scrambled in response. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump on Wednesday responded to reports of Indian missile strikes inside Pakistani territory, saying that the development was expected and urging a swift end to hostilities. "We just heard about it as we were walking through the doors of the Oval. Just heard about it. I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. They've been fighting for a long time. They've been fighting for many, many decades. And centuries, actually, if you think about it. I hope it ends very quickly," Trump said. India's Ministry of Defence confirmed it had launched "Operation Sindoor," striking nine terror camps in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam attack. (ANI)
Pakistan''s military spokesperson and Director General of ISPR, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry has confirmed Indian missile stikes claiming that 24 impacts have been reported. Addressing a press conference at 4:08 AM on Wednesday, "A total of 24 impacts have been reported by India, with different weapons." The DG ISPR said that so far 8 casualties had been reported. According to the DGISPR, four strikes were carried out in Bahwalpur''s Ahmedpur East, near the Subhan mosque. The Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah is a stronghold of the Jaish-e-Mohammad and its founder Maulana Masood Azhar. The JeM have been responsible for several terror strikes in India including the Pulwama attack. DG ISPR say one mosque in the complex was destroyed. The ISPR also reported a strike in Muzaffarabad near the Bilal mosque. Strikes were also confirmed in Kotli, Muridke, Kotki Lohara in Sialkot and near Shakargarh. Earlier while speaking to Sky News, Pakistan''s information Minister Attaullah Tarar rejected the reports of a Pakistani hand in the Pahalgam attack and reiterated that Pakistan was facing terrorist attacks "every second week". Tarar however failed to deny Pakistan''s deep relationship with Terror groups. "If you''re talking about the history -- the Soviet invasion, the cold war -- then that''s a different story," he said. "We totally deny India''s allegations regarding terrorists," Tarar added. Meanwhile, the strike called by the Indian forces on all the nine targets has been successful, sources told ANI. The Indian forces had selected the location for strikes with the intent of targeting top Jaish e Muhammed and Lashkar leadership for their role in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. Precision strike weapon systems from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, including loitering munitions, were employed in Operation Sindoor, which successfully targeted nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), sources confirmed to ANI. The coordinates for the attacks were provided by intelligence agencies, and the strikes were carried out entirely from Indian soil. The Indian forces selected these locations with the intent of targeting key Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba leadership, responsible for sponsoring terrorism in India, sources added. A loitering munition is a type of precision weapon that hovers over a target area to locate and strike targets, often autonomously or under human control, before being expended. Earlier, India''s Ministry of Defence confirmed that the strikes were part of "Operation Sindoor," targeting nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The ministry stated, "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted." The operation followed the "barbaric" Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen. (ANI)
India on Wednesday carried out its deepest strike inside Pakistan''s undisputed borders since the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, CNN reported. The cross-border strikes mark New Delhi''s most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. According to CNN, Pakistan said five locations were hit by India--three in PoJK and two in Pakistan''s Punjab province. The Punjab locations included Ahmadpur East and Muridke. However, sources told ANI that Indian armed forces successfully struck nine terror targets--four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK)--using special precision munitions or Kamikaze drones in a coordinated operation. The operation, named Operation Sindoor, was jointly conducted by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. It involved the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was monitoring the operation throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. All nine targets were successfully struck, sources added. Indian forces selected the targets with the intent of eliminating top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India. CNN also reported that the last time India struck inside Pakistan''s undisputed territory was in 2019, when Indian fighter jets carried out airstrikes following a deadly suicide bombing in Pulwama that killed over 40 Indian paramilitary personnel. In an official statement, the Ministry of Defence stated, In the early hours of Wednesday, the Indian Army launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution," the statement added. The Ministry said the strikes were in response to the "barbaric" terrorist attack in Pahalgam, where 25 Indian citizens and one Nepali national were killed. The government reiterated its commitment to hold those responsible accountable. Precision strike weapon systems from all three services, including loitering munitions, were used in the operation. The coordinates were provided by Indian intelligence agencies, and all strikes were launched from Indian soil. (ANI)
Senior Indian officials have spoken to their counterparts in a number of countries, including the US, UK, Saudi Arabia, UAE and Russia, to brief them on the Operation Sindoor that targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan in retaliation against Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 killed, said sources in the government. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Wednesday that he is closely monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan, following Indian missile strikes on multiple sites in Pakistan. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Rubio said, "I am monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely. I echo President Trump''s comments earlier today that this hopefully ends quickly and will continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution." His remarks follow those of President Donald Trump, who earlier in the day acknowledged the reports of the Indian strikes and expressed hope that tensions would de-escalate swiftly. "We just heard about it as we were walking through the doors of the Oval. Just heard about it. I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. They''ve been fighting for a long time. They''ve been fighting for many, many decades. And centuries, actually, if you think about it. I hope it ends very quickly," Trump said. The US State Department also addressed the situation, though refrained from making a detailed assessment. A spokesperson told ANI, "We are aware of the reports, however we have no assessment to offer at this time. This remains an evolving situation, and we are closely monitoring developments." The comments come in the wake of Indian strikes under "Operation Sindoor," which targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. India''s Ministry of Defence said the action was in direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen. The ministry stated, "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted." Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was constantly monitoring Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. (ANI)
Israel's Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar said on Wednesday that Israel supports India's right to self-defence. His remarks came in the wake of Indian strikes under "Operation Sindoor," which targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The Israeli envoy supported the Indian strikes and reinforced that terrorists should know there's no place to hide "from their heinous crimes against the innocent". He wrote on X, "Israel supports India's right for self defense. Terrorists should know there's no place to hide from their heinous crimes against the innocent. #OperationSindoor" https://x.com/reuvenazar/status/1919936131866513678?s=46 On Wednesday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that he is closely monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan, following Indian missile strikes on multiple sites in Pakistan. His remarks follow those of President Donald Trump, who earlier in the day acknowledged the reports of the Indian strikes and expressed hope that tensions would de-escalate swiftly. "We just heard about it as we were walking through the doors of the Oval. Just heard about it. I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. They've been fighting for a long time. They've been fighting for many, many decades. And centuries, actually, if you think about it. I hope it ends very quickly," Trump said. The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of the UAE, Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has called on India and Pakistan to exercise restraint, de-escalate tensions, and avoid further escalation, UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said in a statement on Wednesday. India's Ministry of Defence said the action was in direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen. The ministry stated, "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted." Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was constantly monitoring Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. (ANI)
Xi congratulates Merz on election as German chancellor

Xinhua) 08:03, May 07, 2025

BEIJING, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday sent a congratulatory message to Friedrich Merz on his election as chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany.

Noting that China and Germany are all-round strategic partners, Xi said since establishing diplomatic relations 53 years ago, the two countries have treated each other with mutual respect, trust and equality.

The two countries have consistently followed a path of mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation, growing into good partners that advance together and help each other succeed, and promoting the steady and sound development of bilateral relations through high-level cooperation, said Xi.

Today's world is marked by intertwined transformation and upheaval, with surging headwinds of unilateralism and protectionism, Xi noted.

Yet peace, development, cooperation and win-win outcomes remain the right way forward for humanity and an unstoppable trend of the times, Xi said.

As the world's second- and third-largest economies and two major countries with global influence, China and Germany should follow the trend of history, uphold fairness and justice, deepen exchanges and mutual learning, strengthen solidarity and cooperation, work together to weather storms and tempests, enhance the well-being of their peoples, and jointly promote an equitable and orderly multipolar world and an inclusive economic globalization, said Xi.

Xi said he highly regards the development of China-Germany relations, and is ready to work with the chancellor to stick to the original aspiration in establishing diplomatic relations, consolidate political mutual trust, deepen exchanges and cooperation, and open a new chapter in the all-round strategic partnership between China and Germany, so as to guide China-EU cooperation in the right direction, and jointly promote world peace, stability, and prosperity.

On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Qiang sent a congratulatory message to Merz on his election as German chancellor.

Noting that China and Germany are all-round strategic partners, Li said the practical cooperation between the two sides in various fields has yielded remarkable results and has broad prospects.

Equality, mutual benefit, cooperation, and win-win outcomes are the historical choices made by both countries and the most distinctive features of China-Germany relations, which should be carefully nurtured, inherited and promoted by both sides, Li said.

The Chinese premier said he looks forward to establishing and maintaining a sound working relationship with Merz, deepening exchanges and jointly promoting development, enhancing understanding and building consensus, continuously enriching the connotation of the China-Germany all-round strategic partnership, and guiding China-Germany and China-EU cooperation in the right direction.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke to National Security Advisors from India and Pakistan on Tuesday (local time) and urged them to keep lines of communication open and avoid escalation. In a statement shared on X, the US Department of State stated, "Earlier this afternoon, @SecRubio spoke to the national security advisors from India and Pakistan. He urged both to keep lines of communication open and avoid escalation." https://x.com/StateDept/status/1919932306984247448 He spoke to the National Security Advisors of two nations as India conducted missile strikes on multiple sites in Pakistan in response to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22. Earlier, Rubio said he is closely monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan. In a statement posted on X, Rubio said, "I am monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely. I echo President Trump's comments earlier today that this hopefully ends quickly and will continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution." https://x.com/SecRubio/status/1919902403999965441 His remarks follow those of US President Donald Trump, who earlier in the day acknowledged the reports of the Indian strikes and expressed hope that tensions would de-escalate swiftly. "We just heard about it as we were walking through the doors of the Oval. Just heard about it. I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. They've been fighting for a long time. They've been fighting for many, many decades. And centuries, actually, if you think about it. I hope it ends very quickly," Trump said. The comments come in the wake of Indian strikes under "Operation Sindoor," which targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. India's Ministry of Defence said the action was in direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The ministry stated, "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted." Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was constantly monitoring Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. (ANI)
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of the UAE, Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has called on India and Pakistan to exercise restraint, de-escalate tensions, and avoid further escalation, UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said in a statement on Wednesday. As per UAE MOFA, the UAE Foreign Minister gave a call to India and Pakistan to "exercise restraint, de-escalate tensions, and avoid further escalation that could threaten regional and international peace". He gave a call for dialogue and mutual understanding to prevent military escalation, strengthen stability in South Asia, and avoid further regional tensions. The Foreign Ministry highlighted his remarks where he reaffirmed that diplomacy and dialogue remain the most effective means of peacefully resolving crises, and achieving the shared aspirations of nations for peace, stability, and prosperity. Foreign Minister Al Nahyan emphasized that the UAE will continue its efforts to support all initiatives aimed at achieving peaceful resolutions to regional and international conflicts and mitigating their humanitarian consequences, the Ministry said in its concluding remarks. The comments come in the wake of Indian strikes under "Operation Sindoor," which targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. India's Ministry of Defence said the action was in direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen. The ministry stated, "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted." Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was constantly monitoring Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. (ANI)
Hours after India launched Operation Sindoor targeting nine terror sites inside Pakistan, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson expressed concern over the ongoing situation and urged both nations to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, remain calm, exercise restraint and refrain from taking actions that may further complicate situation. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said that it opposes all forms of terrorism. The spokesperson further said that India and Pakistan will always remain each other's neighbours, and they are neighbours of China as well. In a statement, Chinese Foreign Ministry stated, "We are concerned about the ongoing situation. India and Pakistan are and will always be each other's neighbors. They're both China's neighbors as well. China opposes all forms of terrorism. We urge both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, remain calm, exercise restraint and refrain from taking actions that may further complicate the situation." Chinese Foreign Ministry's statement comes in the wake of Indian strikes under "Operation Sindoor," which targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. India's Ministry of Defence said the action was in direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen and injured several others. In its statement, the Ministry of Defence stated, "A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'OPERATION SINDOOR', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed." "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution," it added. Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was constantly monitoring Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. (ANI)
Russian Ambassador to India, Denis Alipov led the Victory Day celebrations at the Russia House on Tuesday where Former Chief Minister of Odisha and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) President Naveen Patnaik joined him during the inauguration of a plaque featuring Indian heroes who who were awarded by the erstwhile Soviet government for their contributions. On the occasion of the event, Russian Ambassador to India, Denis Alipov said, "It is a great privilege for all of us that you have joined us this morning at the Russia House on the eve of the day that lies at the very heart of our national memory." "This year, it is the 80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War. For the people of Russia the 9th of May is a sacred day, a day of reverence and remembrance, of mourning and of pride." He said that this marks not only the end of the most brutal war in human history but also victory over Nazi Germany. "We remember the fallen and the brave on this day". As as a part of the immortal regiment movement, a profoundly touching tradition that has grown from the Russian soil, and now lives on in many corners of the world. It is this memory that binds us, not in sorrow alone but to share the commitment to never forget", he added. He shared that during those years, "large numbers of Indian citizens stood alongside with the former Soviet Union and were awarded medals". "We are especially honoured to have with us this morning Naveen Patnaik, whose father Biju Patnaik, a towering personality, an illustrious son of India and a valiant pilot of the Indian National Airways who participated in the Stalingrad operation in 1943 supplying weapons to the besieged Red Army, maybe a lesser known but to no extend an important chapter." He shared that in 1995 Russia decorated Biju Patnaik for his bravery and courage. Ambassador Alipov highlighted that the plaque is a dignified gesture to make people passing by reflect upon and remember that in the hour of trial, our nations stood together. "Let this morning be not only a tribute to the past but also honour peace, friendship and to never let the light of memory fade," he said. The plaque, titled, "Heroes of the Second World War awarded by Soviet Government", featured names of four Indians and the honours they received. Former CM Naveen Patnaik said, "I'm greatly honoured by the great honour that the Russian Government has bestowed today on my late father Shri Biju Patnaik, for his participation in the war for Stalingrad in Russia during the second world war, which led to the final defeat of Nazi Germany. I'm sure the people of Odisha will too be very pleased by this honour". After the event, while speaking to mediapersons, Naveen Patnaik remarked on Operation Sindoor and said, " I have been informed that the Indian Armed Forces have been successful in the operation against terrorists. I congratulate them with all my heart". Operation Sindoor targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. India's Ministry of Defence said the action was in direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen. The ministry stated, "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted." The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. (ANI)
After India carried out precision strikes at terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for maximum military restraint from both countries. UN Secretary-General spokesperson said that Guterres is "very concerned" about India''s military operations across the Line of Control and the international border. In a statement, the UN Secretary-General spokesman said, "The Secretary-General is very concerned about the Indian military operations across the Line of Control and international border. He calls for maximum military restraint from both countries. The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan." Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. India''s Ministry of Defence said the action was in direct response to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir''s Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 people and injured several others. In its statement, the Ministry of Defence stated, "A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched ''OPERATION SINDOOR'', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed." "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution," it added. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was constantly monitoring Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. (ANI)
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for two separate attacks that resulted in the deaths of 14 Pakistani Army personnel in Bolan and Kech. In an incident, BLA's Special Tactical Operations Squad (STOS) carried out a remote-controlled IED attack on a military convoy vehicle in the Shorkand area of Mach, Bolan. The blast reportedly killed all 12 soldiers on board, including Special Operations Commander Tariq Imran and Subedar Umar Farooq. The vehicle was destroyed in the explosion. In another operation, BLA fighters targeted a Bomb Disposal Squad of the Pakistani Army in the Kulag Tigran area of Kech. The remote-controlled IED detonated around 2:40 PM yesterday while the unit was conducting a clearance mission. Two personnel were killed in the attack. According to Jeeyand Baloch, spokesperson for the Baloch Liberation Army, the hired killers who call the Baloch Liberation Army a foreign proxy should know that the Pakistani army itself is a mercenary armed gang that thrives on Chinese capital and Papa Jones. The meaning of the army's uniform shifts--sometimes guarding ports, guarding corridors, serving the satisfaction of lenders. An army that determines its direction according to the will of changing masters in every era is not a national army, but a commercial one. The attacks on this mercenary occupying army by the freedom fighters of Baloch land will continue with greater intensity. The recent attacks highlight the enduring unrest and conflict in Balochistan. In this region, separatist groups have long demanded independence, citing political marginalisation, human rights abuses, and exploitation of natural resources by the Pakistani state. These groups argue that the region's vast mineral wealth benefits the central government and foreign investors, while local communities remain impoverished and underdeveloped. The Pakistani military's presence and operations in the region are viewed by many as acts of occupation rather than national defence. As a result, resentment continues to grow, fueling further resistance and deepening the divide between Baloch nationalists and the federal authorities. (ANI)
Political activist from Jammu and Kashmir, Javed Beigh, expressed happiness on India hitting Muridke and Bhawalpur, headquarters of Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM). He said that these two terrorist organisations have been "bleeding India's Kashmir Valley and the rest of India for the last 30 years." He called on India to capture Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (Pojk) and Pakistan-occupied Gilgit and Baltistan (PoGB). In a post on X, Javed Beigh stated, "I am absolutely thrilled to hear about India hitting Muridke and Bhawalpur, headquarters of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) two Pakistani terrorist organizations that have been bleeding India's Kashmir Valley and rest of India for last 30 years." He said that that he has been a strong supporter of targeting not only terrorist sites in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) but also the headquarters of terrorist organizations like LeT and JeM, which are based in Pakistan's Punjab province and are responsible for ongoing terrorist activities in India's Kashmir Valley and other parts of the country. According to Beigh, all terrorist training camps targeting India's Kashmir Valley are situated across various regions of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), particularly along the borders of Jammu and the northern parts of the Kashmir Valley. In a statement shared on X, Beigh stated, "I am glad that our brave Indian armed and air forces have hit both the terror sites in PoJK as well as Lashkar and Jaish headquarters in Muridke and Bahawalpur in mainland Pakistan. Next stop, CAPTURE Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) and Pakistan Occupied Gilgit and Baltistan (PoGB)." https://x.com/JavedBeigh/status/1919999337175695672 The Indian Armed Forces on Wednesday shared details about Operation Sindoor, a targeted strike mission to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. Addressing a press briefing in the national capital hours after the targeted strikes, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh outlined the objectives of the operation and provided details on destroyed terrorist camps. Four of the nine targeted terrorist camps are in Pakistan, and the remaining are in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The operation, executed by the Indian Armed Forces, dismantled terror infrastructure linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and Hizbul Mujahideen. Colonel Qureshi detailed the targeted camps, stating that the four terrorist camps destroyed in Pakistan are Bahawalpur, Muridke, Sarjal, and Mehmoona Joya. "First is Sarjal camp, Sialkot, which lies 6 km inside Pakistan... It's the camp where those terrorists involved in the March 2025 killing of four Jammu and Kashmir police personnel received their training," she said. She also highlighted the Mehmoona Joya camp in Sialkot, located 12-18 km inside Pakistan. "Second is Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, which lies 12-18 km inside Pakistan... It's one of the biggest camps of Hizbul Mujahideen. It is one of the control centres for spreading terrorism in the Kathua, Jammu region," she said. She also confirmed the destruction of Markaz Subhanallah in Bahawalpur, located 100 km inside Pakistan, stating, "It was the headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed, targeted by Indian Armed Forces." Emphasising the operation's precision, Qureshi clarified, "No military installation was targeted, and till now there are no reports of civilian casualties in Pakistan." The strikes, conducted between 1:05 am and 1:30 am early on Wednesday, were a coordinated effort by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, targeting nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) based on credible intelligence. (ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has postponed his upcoming visit to three countries - Norway, Croatia, and the Netherlands, according to sources. He was scheduled to be there from May 13-17, sources said. PM Modi's decision comes amid the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 people while several others were injured. In response to the Pahalgam attack, Indian Armed Forces, under Operation Sindoor, launched early Wednesday, targeted nine terror camps, including four in Pakistan and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). The strikes, conducted between 1:05 am and 1:30 am early on Wednesday, were a coordinated effort by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, targeting nine terror camps across Pakistan and PoJK based on credible intelligence. Operation Sindoor was launched to avenge the Pahalgam attack, attributed to Pakistan-based terrorist groups, including Lashkar-e-Taiba's (LeT) offshoot, The Resistance Front (TRF). On Wednesday, the Indian Armed Forces shared details about Operation Sindoor. Addressing a press briefing in Delhi on Wednesday, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh outlined the objectives of the operation and provided details on destroyed terrorist camps. Colonel Qureshi detailed the targeted camps, stating that the four terrorist camps destroyed in Pakistan are Bahawalpur, Muridke, Sarjal, and Mehmoona Joya. "First is Sarjal camp, Sialkot, which lies 6 km inside Pakistan... It's the camp where those terrorists involved in the March 2025 killing of four Jammu and Kashmir police personnel received their training," she said. She also highlighted the Mehmoona Joya camp in Sialkot, located 12-18 km inside Pakistan. "Second is Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, which lies 12-18 km inside Pakistan... It's one of the biggest camps of Hizbul Mujahideen. It is one of the control centres for spreading terrorism in the Kathua, Jammu region," she said. "The camp planned and directed the attack on the Pathankot Air Force base camp," Qureshi added. Pointing to Markaz Taiba in Muridke, she said, "those involved in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks trained here, including Ajmal Kasab and David Headley". She also confirmed the destruction of Markaz Subhanallah in Bahawalpur, located 100 km inside Pakistan, stating, "It was the headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed, targeted by Indian Armed Forces." Emphasising the operation's precision, Qureshi clarified, "No military installation was targeted, and till now there are no reports of civilian casualties in Pakistan." (ANI)
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Qatar issued a statement on Wednesday where it expressed "deep concern" on the escalation between India and Pakistan and gave a call for resolving via diplomatic means. The comments come in the wake of Operation Sindoor where on Wednesday, the Indian Armed Forces shared details of the targeted strike mission to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, "The State of Qatar is following with deep concern the continued escalation between the Republic of India and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and Qatar urges both countries to exercise maximum restraint, give priority to the voice of wisdom, respect the principles of good neighborliness, and resolve the crisis through diplomatic means." It gave a call for the two countries to keep communication channels open for defusing tensions and addressing unresolved issues via "constructive dialogue, ultimately leading to comprehensive, consensual, and sustainable solutions". Qatar offered "full support" for efforts aimed at peace, security and stability in the region. Its statement said, "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes the urgent need to keep communication channels open between India and Pakistan to defuse tensions and address unresolved issues between them through constructive dialogue, ultimately leading to comprehensive, consensual, and sustainable solutions. It also reiterates the State of Qatar's full support for all regional and international efforts aimed at promoting security, peace, and stability in the region." The statement was shared in a post on X. https://x.com/MofaQatar_EN/status/1920017617886314925 On Wednesday, during a press conference in New Delhi, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said, "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives". The Foreign Secretary said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. (ANI)
Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs Kirit Vardhan Singh on Wednesday hailed the Armed Forces on Operation Sindoor and saod that this gives a strong message to not only Pakistan but also to the world at large that India will take actions to protect its citizens be it inside or outside India. Speaking to media, MoS Singh said, "There is happiness in the country that we have taken revenge. Our country has given a befitting reply to those who took the lives of so many innocent people and had left so many of our women widowed". He further added, "I want to congratulate our Armed Forces, our government, PM Modi, Defence Minister and Home Minister for not only sending out such a strong message to Pakistan but to the entire world that India is not what it used to be earlier. India is a strong, developed nation, our economy is growing and in order to protect our citizens we will take actions be it inside or outside India." Singh underscored, "The time had come to give a befitting reply to those who killed our innocent citizens". He called it cowardice on how so many innocent people were killed by the terrorists in front of their families. On Wednesday, The Indian Armed Forces shared details about Operation Sindoor, a targeted strike mission to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The information was shared in the media briefing consisting of Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Col Sophiya Qureshi. While speaking to the media, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Qureshi said that the 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructures. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Meanwhile, during the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of 2008 Mumbai attacks received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. The Foreign Secretary said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. (ANI)
Consul General of Israel at Mumbai, Kobbi Shoshani, on Wednesday hailed 'Operation Sindoor' which was undertaken by the Indian Armed Forces. Affirming that Israel stands with India in this right to self-defence, Shoshani said India and the rest of the world will not tolerate any terror activities be it in the Wet Asia or in India. Speaking to ANI about Operation Sindoor, Shoshani said, "India has the right to self-defence. I think it's a very clear message from India to the rest of the world". He said that it was "essential to send the message to the terrorists. That was an action of self-defence, and I'm very proud of this operation." Expressing his views on the nomenclature of the precision strikes carried out by India, he said that the name Operation Sindoor "touched my heart". "It's a very sophisticated name, it's symbolic and inspiring as well. It's really dramatic, the name is very right to the point." Speaking about the future of the escalation, the Israeli Envoy said, "I don't know, but I have to say that the message to the terrorists was very very, very clear. India and the rest of the world will not tolerate any terror activities in the world. It doesn't matter if it's in in the Middle East or in India. Terror organisation needs to know that action like that are going to get responded by retaliation". He added, "We will not tolerate any terror activities against our beloved homelands." On Wednesday, during a press conference in New Delhi, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said, "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives". Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. (ANI)
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday spoke with Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister and discussed India's "targeted response to deter cross-border terrorism." Sharing a post on X, Jaishankar wrote, "Good to speak to PM & FM @MBA_AlThani_ of Qatar. Discussed India's targeted and measured response to deter cross-border terrorism." https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1920057018116681787 In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday morning. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives," Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Meanwhile, during a press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. (ANI)
Following Operation Sindoor, a targeted strike mission to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pok in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, Bangladesh said it is observing the situation. Expressing concern over the situation, the nation urged both countries to show restraint and called for "diplomatic endeavours" by both sides to ease tensions. Bangladesh Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Wednesday, "The Government of Bangladesh is closely observing the evolving situation in India and Pakistan. Bangladesh expresses its deep concern over the situation and urges both countries to remain calm, show restraint, and refrain from taking any steps that could further aggravate the situation." "In the spirit of regional peace, prosperity and stability, Bangladesh remains hopeful that tensions will be defused through diplomatic endeavours, and that peace will ultimately prevail for the benefit of the peoples in the region," it added. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday morning. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives," Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Meanwhile, during the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. (ANI)
Following Operation Sindoor, a targeted strike mission to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, Japan's Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi expressed concerns and urged India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and stabilise the situation through dialogue for peace and stability in South Asia. "On May 7, the Government of India announced that it had attacked terrorist facilities in response to the terrorist attack that occurred in Kashmir on April 22. Regarding the terrorist attack that occurred in Kashmir on April 22, Japan once again strongly condemns such terrorist acts," Takeshi said in a statement. "In this regard, Japan is deeply concerned that the recent series of events could lead to further reprisals and escalate into a full-scale military conflict. Japan strongly urges both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and stabilise the situation through dialogue for the peace and stability in South Asia," the statement added. Takeshi further said that Japan would continue to monitor the situation closely while taking all possible measures to protect Japanese nationals abroad. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday morning. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives," Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Meanwhile, during the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. (ANI)
In the wake of Operation Sindoor, a targeted strike mission to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) provided a detailed briefing to both permanent and non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The briefings also included the Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday morning. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives," Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Meanwhile, during the press briefing, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. (ANI)
In a strong show of support to India, UK's former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak firmly backed New Delhi's action against cross-border terrorism following Operation Sindoor and said that "India is justified in striking terrorist infrastructure." Sharing a post on X, Sunak said, "No nation should have to accept terrorist attacks being launched against it from land controlled by another country. India is justified in striking terrorist infrastructure. There can be no impunity for terrorists." https://x.com/RishiSunak/status/1920076749825618381 Meanwhile, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy urged India and Pakistan to show restraint and indulge in "direct dialogue" following Operation Sindoor, a targeted strike mission to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The UK Foreign Secretary further said that both sides must work to restore regional stability and ensure the protection of civilians. "Current tensions between India and Pakistan are a serious concern. The UK government is urging India and Pakistan to show restraint and engage in direct dialogue to find a swift, diplomatic path forward," Lammy said. "The UK has close and unique relationships with both countries. I have made clear to my counterparts in India and Pakistan that if this escalates further, nobody wins. The UK was clear in its condemnation of the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam last month. We need all sides to work urgently to see regional stability restored and ensure protection of civilians," Lammy added. Lammy further said that the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is evaluating the situation and is ready to support any British nationals in the region. "The safety of British nationals in the region will always be our priority. The FCDO continues to monitor developments closely and stands ready to support any British nationals 24/7. Any British nationals in the region should follow the FCDO's travel advice for the country they are in, along with the advice of the local authorities," Lammy said. In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday morning. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives," Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. During the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. (ANI)
The US Mission on Wednesday issued a "reconsider travel" advisory for Pakistan in light of recent precision strikes by India and advised them to exercise caution and monitor local media for updates. On Wednesday morning, India carried out precise strikes against terrorist infrastructure in response to the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed. "We are aware of reports of military strikes by India into Pakistan. This remains an evolving situation, and we are closely monitoring developments. US citizens are reminded of the "Do Not Travel" advisory for areas in the vicinity of the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict, and the US Department of State's "Reconsider Travel" advisory for Pakistan generally," US Mission to Pakistan wrote in their advisory. "We are also aware that airspace has been closed, and many flights have been cancelled. We advise US citizens to depart areas of active conflict if they can safely do so, or to shelter in place. The US Embassy will send updates as needed through our message system," it added. Further, the US Embassy advised exercising caution and leaving the area if you unexpectedly find yourself in the vicinity of military activities. If relocation is not possible, sheltering in place is recommended. The US Embassy also advised citizens to review their personal security plan, monitor local media for updates, keep a low profile, and be aware of their surroundings. It is also recommended that US citizens carry identification and cooperate with authorities. US Congressman Shri Thanedar also issued a statement on X, emphasising that terrorism cannot be tolerated and must be addressed. "Terrorism cannot be tolerated, and it cannot go unanswered. India has the right to defend its people, and I stand firmly with our ally in its efforts to dismantle these extremist networks," he said. "The United States should always stand with our allies against terrorism. This is a time for deeper U.S.-India cooperation to confront shared threats, protect innocent lives, and defend the principles of democracy, human rights, and religious freedom," he added. The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force jointly carried out the operation, mobilising assets and troops. The strikes on all nine targets were successful. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. "Operation Sindoor," which targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Ministry of Defence was in direct response to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen and injured several others. According to the Defence Ministry, these strikes were carried out in response to the "barbaric" terrorist attack in Pahalgam, where 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were killed. (ANI)
In the wake of Operation Sindoor, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held discussions with foreign ministers from Spain, France, Germany, Japan, and Qatar. He emphasised India's approach to cross-border terrorism and expressed gratitude for their solidarity and support. Jaishankar discussed India's measured response to cross-border terrorism with Spain's Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares. In a post on X, Jaishankar wrote, "Spoke with FM @jmalbares of Spain. Discussed India's firm and measured response to cross-border terrorism." https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1920084575272804667 Jaishankar held talks with France's Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot and Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and appreciated their solidarity following the Pahalgam attack. "Had a joint telecon with FM @jnbarrot of France & FM @JoWadephul of Germany. Appreciated their solidarity and support in the wake of the Pahalgam terrorist attack. Discussed ensuring zero tolerance for terrorism," Jaishankar wrote on X. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1920084432150524179 In conversations with Japanese counterpart Takeshi Iwaya, Jaishankar discussed India's action against cross-border terrorist infrastructure. Sharing a post on X, Jaishankar wrote, "Had a telecon with FM Takeshi Iwaya of Japan. Appreciate the strong condemnation of the April 22 terrorist attack. Discussed India's action against the cross-border terrorist infrastructure this morning." https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1920083755378610495 Jaishankar spoke with Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister and discussed India's "targeted response to deter cross-border terrorism." "Good to speak to PM & FM @MBA_AlThani_ of Qatar. Discussed India's targeted and measured response to deter cross-border terrorism," Jaishankar wrote on X. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1920057018116681787 In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday morning. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives," Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Meanwhile, during the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. (ANI)
Shafi Burfat, Chairman of the Jeay Sindh Muttahida Mahaz (JSMM), has issued a forceful statement denouncing Pakistan's ongoing support for extremist terrorist groups and expressing clear support for India's counter-terrorism operations in the region. Burfat framed the conflict not as a conventional war between two nations, but as a decisive struggle between forces of justice and global terrorism. In his statement, Burfat emphasised that the core issue lies not in the territorial or military confrontation between India and Pakistan, but in the Indian military's battle against "extremist terrorists nurtured by Pakistan." According to Burfat, these terrorists, backed by the Pakistani military establishment, have been responsible for shedding the blood of countless innocent civilians, particularly in Kashmir. "India's strikes are not attacks on Pakistan or its people," Burfat asserted. "They are precision operations targeting terrorist hideouts and training camps within Pakistan, aimed at preserving peace, stability, and human dignity across the region." Burfat's statement further criticised Pakistan's longstanding practice of harbouring extremist organisations like Jaish-e-Mohammed and individuals such as Hafiz Saeed. He accused the Pakistani state and military of using these groups as proxies to destabilise South Asia and threaten global peace. "By sheltering and defending such terrorists, Pakistan is revealing itself to be a morally bankrupt state that thrives on terror," he said. Burfat called on the international community to take a firm stance and acknowledge Pakistan's role in sponsoring terrorism. He labelled Pakistan "a rogue villain" in the eyes of the world and described India as "a responsible hero" bravely fighting for the protection of innocent lives and regional stability. "This is not just a conflict between two nations--it is a battle between justice and injustice," he declared. "Every loss India suffers in this fight should be viewed as a noble sacrifice for peace and humanity. Meanwhile, any setback for Pakistan should be seen as a necessary blow to the foundations of terrorism." The Sindhi leader concluded by calling Pakistan an "unnatural state" and reaffirmed his support for India's struggle against extremism. "India stands for peace, values, and a dignified civilisation. It is only natural that the world stands with India in this just war." Shafi Burfat remains a controversial figure in Pakistani politics, leading the JSMM, a Sindhi nationalist party that advocates for Sindh's independence and has long criticised Islamabad's policies. His bold alignment with India in the ongoing conflict underscores the deep divisions within Pakistan and the rising voices in Sindh and other provinces calling for a new political future free from extremism and state-sponsored terror. (ANI)
France's Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot expressed concern over the situation between India and Pakistan, and also acknowledged India's desire to protect itself against terrorism, but emphasised the need for restraint. "We strongly condemned the terrorist attack on 22 April, which left 26 civilians brutally murdered in India," Barrot said. He mentioned his efforts to support a United Nations Security Council statement condemning the attack, saying, "I was even in New York last week to support the adoption of a statement by the United Nations Security Council condemning this terrorist attack." Further, he added, "We understand India's desire to protect itself against the scourge of terrorism, but we obviously call on both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint in order to avoid escalation and, of course, to protect civilians." The Minister expressed concern due to the military capabilities of both countries. "I am very concerned about the situation. These are two major military powers, which is why we are calling for restraint," he added. Barrot plans to engage with both Indian and Pakistani counterparts to promote de-escalation. "I spoke with my Indian counterpart last week and will speak with him again in the next few hours, either today or tomorrow. I will do the same with my Pakistani counterpart to do my part in this collective effort," he said. He concluded by emphasising the importance of avoiding a lasting confrontation between the two nations. "I believe that no one, absolutely no one, has any interest in a lasting confrontation between India and Pakistan," Barrot stated. On Wednesday morning, India carried out precise strikes against terrorist infrastructure in response to the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed. Notably, the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force jointly carried out the operation, mobilising assets and troops. The strikes on all nine targets were successful. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India."Operation Sindoor," which targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Ministry of Defence was in direct response to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen and injured several others. According to the Defence Ministry, these strikes were carried out in response to the "barbaric" terrorist attack in Pahalgam, where 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were killed. (ANI)
Dubai [UAE], May 7 (ANI/WAM): Dubai Police has finalised preparations for the World Police Summit 2025, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The summit will commence next Tuesday at the Dubai World Trade Centre and will run for three days, bringing together police leaders, law enforcement agencies, global experts, and prominent international organisations to discuss the future of policing and global security cooperation. This came during the press conference organised by Dubai Police to announce the details of the global event, with the participation of Brigadier Dr. Saleh Rashed AlHamrani, Deputy Director of the General Department of Excellence and Leadership at Dubai Police; Lt. Col. Dr. Rashid Hamdan AlGhafri, Deputy Director of the General Department of Forensic Evidence and Criminology for Administrative Affairs at Dubai Police and Secretary-General of the World Police Summit; Sami Aqeel Abdullah, Senior Vice President of Outstation Airport Services and Business Support at Emirates Airline; Major Dr. Mohammed Jamal Al Tamimi, Member of the World Police Summit Secretariat Board; Captain Marwan Abdullah Al Mulla, Head of the Awards Team at the Summit; Lieutenant Khalifa Al Fuqaei, Director of the Summit Executive Office; and Afroz Abro, Project Director, along with a number of officers, partners, sponsors, and media representatives. Brigadier Dr. Saleh Rashed AlHamrani welcomed attendees, emphasising that the World Police Summit has become one of the leading international platforms for discussing the future of policing. He noted that Dubai Police adopts a proactive approach to enhancing security and safety, and aims to open new avenues for cooperation among global law enforcement entities through the Summit. He added, "This year's summit, themed 'Beyond the Badge: Envision the Next Era of Policing', will feature over 300 speakers and global experts, alongside top decision-makers in the security field. Together, they will address emerging security challenges and explore innovative solutions, contributing to the foundations of global safety and stability." He added, "This summit is not merely an international event for law enforcement professionals; it is a strategic platform that reinforces our ongoing commitment to enhancing community safety and developing our policing capabilities in line with technological and digital advancements, while upholding the principles of justice and transparency set by our wise leadership. Our goal is to reinforce Dubai's role as a central hub for international security cooperation, encourage knowledge exchange on contemporary security issues, and build long-term strategic partnerships that address growing global challenges, particularly in areas such as cybersecurity, organised crime, and the use of artificial intelligence in policing operations." The summit has seen significant growth since inception, welcoming over 17,000 visitors across the past three editions. This year, it expects to see record-breaking attendance due to increased international interest, with a 25% year-on-year growth in participation from global leaders, exhibitors, delegates, and visitors. Brigadier AlHamrani also highlighted that the fourth edition will see a major expansion in the number of conference tracks, growing from seven to twelve in 2025. The World Police Summit Awards have also seen a notable rise in interest, with a 200% increase in nominations, reflecting the importance of recognising individuals and institutions that uphold safety and integrity. He added, "This year's summit also introduces three new zones, including an Academic Zone, featuring leading universities and police institutes, the Startup Zone, highlighting the role of innovation in supporting community security, and the Demonstration Hub that will showcase real-world policing scenarios to test technical and operational capabilities." Lt. Col. Dr. Rashid Hamdan AlGhafri presented the summit agenda, stating that the event features panel discussions and workshops covering all aspects of policing, including advanced technologies, innovation in law enforcement, and modern police leadership. He said, "The summit serves as an exceptional platform to exchange knowledge and explore best practices in the policing and security sectors, with participation from prominent international organisations such as INTERPOL, Europol, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime." He confirmed that key topics include the practical applications of artificial intelligence, information security, crisis and disaster management, as well as special sessions on security in smart cities. Lt. Col. AlGhafri further noted that this year's edition will feature the largest exhibition of its kind in the region, stating: "The International Exhibition for Policing and Law Enforcement will bring together over 170 exhibitors, including companies and institutions specialised in security solutions and cutting-edge policing technologies. The exhibition offers an interactive platform to showcase the latest innovations in data analysis, smart systems, drones, and rapid response technologies." Now in its fourth edition, the World Police Summit 2025 continues to establish itself as a premier global platform that convenes senior police and security leaders, law enforcement professionals, and experts from around the world. Together, they will discuss the latest global developments and explore strategies to advance community safety. A major international exhibition will highlight the latest technologies, artificial intelligence systems, and innovations that support modern policing, reaffirming Dubai Police's commitment to driving international cooperation and embedding innovation. The summit also serves as a unique platform to strengthen collaboration between the public and private sectors, while building law enforcement capacity to address evolving challenges. It promotes an interactive and professional environment reflecting the spirit of global partnership and aims to empower the next generation of young police professionals through dynamic training and knowledge-sharing programmes. Furthermore, it underscores the critical role of women in security, affirming the importance of gender diversity and inclusion in shaping the future of policing both locally and globally. (ANI/WAM)
Nepali lawmakers have raised caution about relations with the terror-sponsoring states, calling on the government to sever relations with such states. Addressing a session of the House of Representatives on Wednesday, Sarbendra Nath Shukla, a lawmaker from the Loktantrik Samajbadi Party, cautioned the government about terror-sponsoring states. "Especially when it comes to terrorism, the whole world is divided into two factions: One is the backbone of terrorism and its supporters, and the other is standing against terrorism. These two factions have been seen at the forefront. Terror attacks in any of the regions of South Asia, Nepal, indirectly or directly, remain affected. Now the time has arrived that we have to stand in support of the forces fighting against terrorism by making policy," Shukla said. "Nepal while standing against the terrorism, those countries who directly or indirectly support the terrorism we should maintain the distance. The government should give enough attention to it, otherwise relation with those countries might result in Nepal being a common playground to harbor terrorism," the lawmaker said, signaling the government to degrade relations with Pakistan. Former Foreign Minister and lawmaker from the Nepali Congress, NP Saud, also criticised the government for inviting a Pakistan Army delegation to Nepal at the time of the ongoing conflict. "On April 22, India's Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam saw a heinous terrorist attack. In that attack, 26 people were killed, including a Nepali citizen, Sudeep Neupane. Nepali citizens also have become the target of terrorist attacks. This attack has escalated tension between India and Pakistan," the former foreign minister said. "Despite the heinous attack on our neighbour and the situation that unfolded following it, neglecting the situation, a high-level Pakistani Army delegation is on a visit to Nepal. Although the visit was pre-planned, it was necessary to be sensitive to the current situation and diplomatically postpone the visit for the time being and wait for an appropriate time," Saud, also the lawmaker from the ruling Nepali Congress, took a jibe at the government. Following the terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces on Wednesday launched 'Operation Sindoor', carrying out precision strikes on nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), days after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people. Earlier on Wednesday morning, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'OPERATION SINDOOR', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed, said an official statement from the Minister of Defence. Altogether, nine (9) sites have been targeted. "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution, said MoD. Further, as per the Ministry, these steps come in the wake of the "barbaric" Pahalgam terrorist attack in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were murdered. We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable. (ANI)
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy urged India and Pakistan to show restraint and indulge in "direct dialogue" following Operation Sindoor, a precision strikes on terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The UK Foreign Secretary further said that both sides must work to restore regional stability and ensure the protection of civilians. "Current tensions between India and Pakistan are a serious concern. The UK government is urging India and Pakistan to show restraint and engage in direct dialogue to find a swift, diplomatic path forward," Lammy said. "The UK has close and unique relationships with both countries. I have made clear to my counterparts in India and Pakistan that if this escalates further, nobody wins. The UK was clear in its condemnation of the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam last month. We need all sides to work urgently to see regional stability restored and ensure protection of civilians," Lammy added. Lammy further said that the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is evaluating the situation and is ready to support any British nationals in the region. "The safety of British nationals in the region will always be our priority. The FCDO continues to monitor developments closely and stands ready to support any British nationals 24/7. Any British nationals in the region should follow the FCDO's travel advice for the country they are in, along with the advice of the local authorities," Lammy said. Meanwhile, Azerbaijan also expressed concerns following Operation Sindoor and urged both countries to resolve the conflict diplomatically. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan said in a statement, "The Republic of Azerbaijan expresses its concern over the further escalation of tension between the Republic of India and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan... We call on all parties to exercise restraint and to resolve the conflict through diplomatic means." In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday morning. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives," Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Meanwhile, during the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. (ANI)
The United Nations on Wednesday expressed concerns over Israel's reported plans to forcibly transfer Gaza's population to a confined area in the south of the Strip, along with threats by Israeli officials to deport Palestinians outside of Gaza. United Nations Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said that such actions risk creating conditions of life increasingly incompatible with the continued existence of Palestinians in Gaza as a group. In a statement, Turk on Wednesday said, "Israel's reported plans to forcibly transfer Gaza's population to a small area in the south of the strip and threats by Israeli officials to deport Palestinians outside of Gaza further aggravate concerns that Israel's actions are aimed at inflicting on Palestinians conditions of life increasingly incompatible with their continued existence in Gaza as a group" He added, "There is no reason to believe that doubling down on military strategies, which, for a year and eight months, have not led to a durable resolution, including the release of all hostages, will now succeed. Instead, expanding the offensive on Gaza will almost certainly cause further mass displacement, more deaths and injuries of innocent civilians, and the destruction of Gaza's little remaining infrastructure." Turk further warned that these actions, along with ongoing military operations and a near-total blockade on basic goods, could further aggravate the misery and suffering of the Gaza residents. "This would only compound the misery and suffering inflicted by the complete blockade on the entry of basic goods for almost nine weeks now. Gaza's residents have already been deprived of all lifesaving necessities, particularly food, with relentless Israeli attacks on community kitchens and those trying to maintain a minimum of law and order. Any use of starvation of the civilian population as a method of war constitutes a war crime," Turk said. He added, "The only lasting solution to this crisis lies through full compliance with international law, including as articulated by the International Court of Justice in its 2024 Advisory Opinion and its orders on provisional measures." Notably, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had said that the population of Gaza will be displaced to the south after his security cabinet approved an expanded military operation in the enclave that a minister described as a plan to "conquer" the territory. According to CNN, the vote on Sunday came hours after the military said it would mobilise tens of thousands of reservists, strengthening its capacity to operate in the besieged Palestinian territory. In a video posted on X on Monday, Netanyahu had said, "One thing will be clear: there will be no in-and-out. We'll call up reserves to come and hold territory. We are not going to enter and then exit the area, only to carry out raids afterwards. That's not the plan. The intention is the opposite." (ANI)
"This strategic collaboration marks a step forward in strengthening Greece's undersea defense capabilities. The potential integration and co-production of BlueWhale deepens the bilateral ties and represents a leap toward technological autonomy for our country," said Rear Admiral (ret.) Alexandros Diakopoulos, Chairman of the Hellenic Aerospace Industry, which will take on a pivotal role in BlueWhale's production and design.

Diakopoulos added that BlueWhale's deployment will offer Hellenic Armed Forces a vessel that "combines anti-submarine warfare, mine countermeasures and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities."

Developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), BlueWhale, is a large uncrewed underwater vehicle measuring 10.9 meters long, 1.12 meters in diameter and weighing 5.5 tons. It can perform a wide range of covert maritime missions, including intelligence-gathering above the sea surface, submarines and underwater target detection, acoustic intelligence collection and search for and detect naval mines on the seabed.

The autonomous submarine also performs a significant portion of a crewed submarine's operations for several weeks at minimal cost and maintenance, and without risking operators.

Speaking in Athens, IAI President and CEO, Boaz Levy, expressed pride in strengthening IAI's partnership with the Hellenic Aerospace Industry "through this strategic agreement, further enhancing the defense capabilities of Greece."

"BlueWhale represents a transformational leap in maritime defense", according to IAI's Executive Vice President Dror Bar. "It delivers the advanced capabilities of a crewed submarine. Today's MoU marks an exciting step forward in our commitment to advancing Greece's maritime security," he added.

Germany's Bundeswehr Navy is also integrating BlueWhale into its Baltic Sea operations. (ANI/TPS)
Near the Reichan Crossing in northern Samaria, four people were wounded by gunfire, including two women who sustained very light injuries and declined evacuation.

Two additional victims remain under treatment by military medical teams, with their condition described as moderate to serious. A military helicopter and surveillance drone were dispatched to assist in the manhunt for the shooters.

Shortly afterward, an attempted car-ramming attack occurred at the Sheep Junction (Tzomet HaKvasim) near Hebron. The terrorist was neutralized, and one person sustained minor injuries and is being treated on-site.

Both attacks are currently under investigation by security forces. (ANI/TPS)
According to Magen David Adom, the victims sustained varying degrees of injuries. The circumstances are still under investigation, but a terror-related motive is suspected.

The IDF Spokesperson confirmed that a report of gunfire was received in the Menashe Brigade area. Military medical teams are attending to the wounded. Civilian access to the scene is currently restricted. (ANI/TPS)
Abbas Araghchi, Iran's Foreign Minister, is on a two-day visit to New Delhi from Wednesday to co-chair the 20th Joint Commission Meeting with India, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. Further, the Ministry noted that it is Araghchi's first visit to India since assuming office as Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran in August 2024. The Joint Commission Meeting, being held on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the signing of the India-Iran Friendship Treaty, will review issues of mutual interest between the two countries and the way forward in strengthening bilateral relations, as per the release. During his visit, Araghchi will hold a bilateral meeting with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar at Hyderabad House on May 8. Later in the day, he will meet President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Earlier on Monday, the Embassy of Iran in India said that the Iranian Foreign Minister would visit India after a stop in Islamabad, where he would hold talks with Pakistani officials. On April 25, the Iranian Foreign Minister had given a call for peace to prevail in the neighbourhood in a post on X. His call for peace came in the wake of the dastardly Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, which targeted tourists, killing 26 people. He had shared that Tehran stands "ready" to put its good offices in Islamabad and New Delhi to use for forging a "greater understanding at this difficult time." India and Iran share a millennia-long history of interactions. The contemporary and relationship draws upon the strength of these historical and civilisational ties, and continues to grow further marked by high-level exchanges, commercial and connectivity cooperation, cultural and robust people-to-people ties.India and Iran signed a friendship treaty on 15th March 1950. The visit of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to Iran and the signing of the Tehran Declaration in April 2001, followed by the visit of President Seyyed Mohammad Khatami and the signing of the New Delhi Declaration in 2003, deepened India-Iran cooperation, according to the Embassy of India in Tehran. (ANI)
State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada

Zip Code
AICHI, May 07 (News On Japan) - A 61-year-old woman was arrested and sent to prosecutors on May 4th in Togo, Aichi Prefecture, for allegedly throwing a bird carcass into her neighbors yard, in what police say was part of a long-running neighborhood dispute. Security footage captured the entire incident.

Around 4 a.m. on May 5th, several police officers gathered outside a house in Togo, where the woman, a resident, was arrested. The arrest stemmed from repeated acts of harassment targeting a neighboring household.

Rewinding to the afternoon of May 4th, shortly after 3 p.m., the woman was seen returning home and getting out of her car. Moments later, she approached the neighboring house carrying something in her right hand and tossed it into the yard  it was the carcass of a bird, partially decomposed and showing signs of skeletal exposure.

"I was bringing in the laundry from the balcony when I saw something strange in the yard. When I looked closer, I found the remains of a bird with feathers still attached. It was so odd I initially thought the wind might have blown it in, but checking the security camera confirmed the woman had thrown it. It felt eerie and disturbing," said a neighbor.

According to police, the woman was arrested on suspicion of violating waste disposal laws by discarding a single bird carcass into the neighbors yard. The neighbor also reported that this was not an isolated incident  they had been subjected to various forms of harassment, including stones and trash being thrown onto their property.

"There were two or three confirmed cases caught on camera, but the harassment was daily. She would blast loud bass music at night, throw stones that scratched our car, and dump garbage near other homes. We even captured some of it on our security camera," said another resident.

Residents say the woman moved into the neighborhood around summer last year, and problems began soon after.

"Things escalated after the Obon holidays. My child came home by car, and she complained about the noise from the car door closing. That triggered verbal abuse from her  shouting 'shut up' and 'drop dead' from inside her house. It became a regular occurrence," one neighbor recalled.

In a video recorded in October, the woman was seen entering her neighbors yard, facing the security camera and yelling "stalker" before returning to her home.

The trouble didnt stop there. A resident recalled confronting her late one night: "I saw her reaching over the fence through a back window around 1 a.m. and asked, 'What are you doing?' She yelled, 'You're the noisy one!' and started shouting loudly."

Attempts to resolve the situation through conversation were unsuccessful. Recordings captured her shouting, "What are you doing?" and "Get a grip!" along with repeated banging sounds and shouts of "drop dead."

Police say they have received more than 50 reports related to this neighbor dispute. The woman has admitted to throwing the bird carcass, and authorities are continuing to investigate the broader circumstances surrounding the harassment.

Source: Nagoya TV News
VANCOUVER, British Columbia As global tensions rise and anti-American sentiment spreads across conflict regions, the once-untouchable status of the American passport is being reevaluated.

Geopolitical analysts, travel security firms, and international consultants are asking a growing question: Is travelling the world as an American citizen still safe?

For decades, the U.S. passport granted its holders near-universal access and protection. But in 2025, amid growing backlash against U.S. foreign policy, increased surveillance of American citizens abroad, and a rapidly shifting security landscape, that certainty is fading.

Amicus International Consulting, a leader in second citizenship and legal identity transformation services, is seeing a dramatic increase in American clients seeking dual nationality, not for convenience, but for safety.

The world has changed, said a senior advisor at Amicus. What was once seen as a badge of freedom can now attract suspicion, surveillance, or worse. Americans are no longer travelling unnoticed. A second passport provides an alternativea form of security that crosses borders.

A Travel Landscape Shaped by Politics, Not Just Visas

While American citizens still enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to more than 180 countries, political backlash and regional tensions have begun eroding U.S. travellers soft power.

According to a 2025 report by the International Travel Risk Index (ITRI), there has been a 40% increase in incidents involving American citizens abroad, including detentions, surveillance, harassment, and denial of entry.

Key trends include:

Strained diplomatic ties with Russia, Iran, and China lead to tighter visa scrutiny and surveillance.

Unrest in regions like the Middle East and parts of Africa , where American affiliations can pose security risks.

Sanctions and retaliatory policies that target U.S. passport holders, including account freezes and travel denylists.

Anti-American propaganda in digital spaces is fueling real-world violence and reputational harm.

Case Study: American Aid Worker Detained in North Africa

Lindsey J., a 29-year-old humanitarian from Oregon, was arrested in Tunisia in 2024 while assisting a womens rights NGO. Despite no formal charges, she was interrogated for 36 hours and held without legal representation. Officials cited foreign interference concerns due to her American passport.

After her release, Lindsey partnered with Amicus International Consulting and obtained Dominican citizenship, allowing her to continue her humanitarian work in neighbouring countries without drawing attention.

My work wasnt the problemit was my nationality, she said. Now I travel with less risk and greater respect.

The Rise of the Reverse Visa Check

In many countries, being American triggers deeper background checks, flagging by immigration officials, and automatic routing to secondary screening. This process, informally referred to as the Reverse Visa Check, is used by countries wary of U.S. political motives, cyber operations, or media narratives.

In response, Americans are turning to neutral jurisdictions for second passportsnot to renounce their homeland, but to retain their freedom to move.

Second Passports as a Safety Strategy

Amicus International reports a 52% increase in American applications for second citizenship since Q4 2023, with the following reasons cited:

Fear of detainment or surveillance abroad

Greater ease of banking and business in neutral jurisdictions

Desire for visa-free travel to countries close to U.S. nationals

Reduced risk of political profiling or retaliation

Popular programs include:

Grenada  Access to China and strong diplomatic neutrality

St. Kitts & Nevis  Fast-track processing and wide visa-free access

Turkey  Strategic location between East and West

Portugal  EU residency rights and future citizenship

Vanuatu  Fast issuance and no global tax reporting obligations

Case Study: Retired Diplomat Chooses Grenada

Charles M., a retired U.S. diplomat and frequent traveller, shared his concerns with Amicus after being flagged in three countries in 2024, including Turkey and the UAE.

Even in retirement, I was being watched. My American identity created suspicion, not privilege, he said. Acquiring Grenadian citizenship was about restoring balance.

Now, Charles travels under a Grenadian passport for business and research, keeping his U.S. passport only for legal residency.

Is the U.S. Passport Losing Its Power?

While still ranked among the worlds most powerful travel documents, recent trends show diminishing advantages in real-world applications. Passport privilege is increasingly influenced by political neutrality and perceived foreign policy alignment, not just visa treaties.

Countries like New Zealand, Switzerland, and Ireland are viewed as neutral. At the same time, American, British, and Israeli passport holders often receive greater scrutiny or longer visa processing times in politically sensitive regions.

What Lies Ahead?

Analysts predict several shifts in the global travel landscape over the next decade:

Increased biometric tracking and AI-driven profiling at borders

Travel-based sanctions targeting individuals tied to political regimes or ideologies

Digital passports and programmable visas controlled by centralized systems

National reputation scores , potentially affecting border decisions

In this environment, having a second citizenship offers not just options but also a firewall against unpredictable geopolitical fallout.

Case Study: Family Evades Conflict with Second Citizenship

The Herrera family, dual U.S.-Venezuelan citizens, fled political violence in Caracas in 2023. When applying for EU visas, their American passports flagged lengthy delays due to U.S.-Venezuela tensions.

Through Amicus International, the family secured St. Lucia citizenship within five months. Today, they reside in Lisbon, Portugal, with full EU rights and a neutral national identity.

St. Lucia gave our kids a future we werent sure we could offer anymore, said Maria Herrera.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it still legal to get a second passport as an American?

Yes. The United States allows dual citizenship. Amicus only works with internationally recognized, legal citizenship and residency programs.

Do I need to renounce my U.S. citizenship?

No. Most second passport programs allow you to retain U.S. citizenship.

How long does it take?

Caribbean programs last 36 months. European residencies last 624 months, depending on the country.

Can a second passport protect me if detained abroad?

In many cases, yes. A second passport provides consular access to a neutral country and may reduce your profile as a political target.

About Amicus International Consulting

Amicus International Consulting provides second citizenship, legal identity change, and international privacy consulting to individuals seeking security, mobility, and discretion in an unpredictable world. With clients in over 60 countries, Amicus empowers global citizens with legal, compliant solutions to safeguard their futures.

 Contact Information

Phone: +1 (604) 200-5402

Email: info@amicusint.ca

Website: www.amicusint.ca

Follow Us:

 LinkedIn

 Twitter/X

 Facebook

 Instagram
Country

United States of America US Virgin Islands United States Minor Outlying Islands Canada Mexico, United Mexican States Bahamas, Commonwealth of the Cuba, Republic of Dominican Republic Haiti, Republic of Jamaica Afghanistan Albania, People's Socialist Republic of Algeria, People's Democratic Republic of American Samoa Andorra, Principality of Angola, Republic of Anguilla Antarctica (the territory South of 60 deg S) Antigua and Barbuda Argentina, Argentine Republic Armenia Aruba Australia, Commonwealth of Austria, Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Bahrain, Kingdom of Bangladesh, People's Republic of Barbados Belarus Belgium, Kingdom of Belize Benin, People's Republic of Bermuda Bhutan, Kingdom of Bolivia, Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana, Republic of Bouvet Island (Bouvetoya) Brazil, Federative Republic of British Indian Ocean Territory (Chagos Archipelago) British Virgin Islands Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria, People's Republic of Burkina Faso Burundi, Republic of Cambodia, Kingdom of Cameroon, United Republic of Cape Verde, Republic of Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad, Republic of Chile, Republic of China, People's Republic of Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia, Republic of Comoros, Union of the Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, People's Republic of Cook Islands Costa Rica, Republic of Cote D'Ivoire, Ivory Coast, Republic of the Cyprus, Republic of Czech Republic Denmark, Kingdom of Djibouti, Republic of Dominica, Commonwealth of Ecuador, Republic of Egypt, Arab Republic of El Salvador, Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Republic of Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faeroe Islands Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Fiji, Republic of the Fiji Islands Finland, Republic of France, French Republic French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon, Gabonese Republic Gambia, Republic of the Georgia Germany Ghana, Republic of Gibraltar Greece, Hellenic Republic Greenland Grenada Guadaloupe Guam Guatemala, Republic of Guinea, Revolutionary People's Rep'c of Guinea-Bissau, Republic of Guyana, Republic of Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras, Republic of Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China Hrvatska (Croatia) Hungary, Hungarian People's Republic Iceland, Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Republic of Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq, Republic of Ireland Israel, State of Italy, Italian Republic Japan Jordan, Hashemite Kingdom of Kazakhstan, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Kiribati, Republic of Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait, State of Kyrgyz Republic Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon, Lebanese Republic Lesotho, Kingdom of Liberia, Republic of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Liechtenstein, Principality of Lithuania Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Macao, Special Administrative Region of China Macedonia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Madagascar, Republic of Malawi, Republic of Malaysia Maldives, Republic of Mali, Republic of Malta, Republic of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania, Islamic Republic of Mauritius Mayotte Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Principality of Mongolia, Mongolian People's Republic Montserrat Morocco, Kingdom of Mozambique, People's Republic of Myanmar Namibia Nauru, Republic of Nepal, Kingdom of Netherlands Antilles Netherlands, Kingdom of the New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua, Republic of Niger, Republic of the Nigeria, Federal Republic of Niue, Republic of Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway, Kingdom of Oman, Sultanate of Pakistan, Islamic Republic of Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama, Republic of Papua New Guinea Paraguay, Republic of Peru, Republic of Philippines, Republic of the Pitcairn Island Poland, Polish People's Republic Portugal, Portuguese Republic Puerto Rico Qatar, State of Reunion Romania, Socialist Republic of Russian Federation Rwanda, Rwandese Republic Samoa, Independent State of San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe
We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription.
A delegation of Moroccan legal experts has pleaded, before the 29th World Law Congress in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, for the Morocco-proposed autonomy plan for the Sahara, describing the plan as a credible, realistic, and lawful settlement to the long-standing territorial dispute over the Sahara. The delegation members also highlighted the Kingdoms strategic approach in implementing large-scale reforms in matters of human rights, advanced regionalization, and territorial governance.

The congress, held from May 4 to 6 under the theme New Generations and the Rule of Law: Forging the Future, brought together over 300 experts from 70 countries, who gathered around the Dominican Vice President Raquel Pena and the President of the World Jurist Association (WJA), Javier Cremades.

The Moroccan delegation included prominent jurists, namely MP and lawyer Zaina Chahim, and law university professors Zakaria Abouddahab, Abdelaziz Laaroussi, and Hamid Aboulass.

The delegation members participated in several panels, where they highlighted Moroccos progress in human rights, territorial governance, and advanced regionalization, particularly in the southern provinces of the Kingdom.

Ms. Chahim emphasized, in this connection, the link between inclusive development and territorial integrity, citing the New Development Model initiated in 2015 in the southern provinces, in line with King Mohammed VIs vision. She also praised the active participation of Sahrawi women in local, regional, and national institutions.

For his part, Zakaria Abouddahab focused on the Sahara issue, stressing that the autonomy plan for the Sahara, submitted to the UN in 2007, represents a form of internal self-determination that respects the principles of the UN Charter and the jurisprudence of the International Court of Justice.

Hamid Aboulass made a presentation on Moroccos advanced regionalization, explaining that it is a lever for local democracy and that the autonomy plan is the natural extension of local democracy in a sensitive geopolitical context.

Abdelaziz Laaroussi defended Moroccos approach to human dignity, as demonstrated by post-2011 reforms, and the social policies implemented in the Southern provinces of the Kingdom, particularly through the regional commissions of the National Human Rights Council (CNDH).

In a changing international environment, Morocco, through its participation in this major international event, is asserting its position by promoting a legal approach to development and defending, on the global stage, its autonomy initiative for the Sahara as a political solution, respecting international law and preserving peoples dignity.

The congress was marked by the awarding of the 2025 World Peace and Liberty Award to U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, during a ceremony presided over by Dominican President Luis Abinader and King Felipe VI of Spain.
In a move widely interpreted as a deepening of Tunisias authoritarian drift, the state has opened on Tuesday May 6 a second sweeping trial against 22 opposition figures, accusing them of conspiring against national security.

The new trial comes weeks after a separate mass trial jailed nearly 40 people.

The proceedings, dubbed Conspiracy Against State Security II, include high-profile defendants such as Rached Ghannouchithe octogenarian former Speaker of Parliament and leader of the Ennahdha partywho is already serving a 22-year sentence from a separate conviction. Among others named are ex-Prime minister Youssef Chahed and former presidential chief of staff Nadia Akacha, many of whom are being tried in absentia after fleeing the country.

The charges span terrorism, incitement to murder, and the alleged orchestration of a clandestine security network. Critics argue the case is emblematic of President Kais Saieds growing crackdown on dissent since his 2021 consolidation of power, which effectively dismantled Tunisias post-revolution democratic structures. While the courtroom was largely virtualwith only four defendants appearing remotelylawyers and observers described the trial as a continuation of politically motivated persecution aimed at silencing voices critical of the regime.

International condemnation has grown louder following the first trial last month, which led to nearly 40 convictions and prompted the United Nations to raise alarms over due process violations. Nonetheless, President Saied remains defiant, dismissing external criticism as unwarranted meddling in domestic affairs. Tunisia, once hailed as the lone democratic success story to emerge from the Arab Spring, now teeters on the edge of authoritarian relapse, as opposition leaders, civil society actors, and global institutions call for an end to what they describe as orchestrated show trials targeting political dissent.
Thanks to its strategic alliance sealed with Washington, Beijing, and Brussels, Morocco has become an important partner in global trade and the new geopolitical shifts taking place in the world.

In an analysis published Wednesday on Moroccos rising economic power, The New York Times recalled the brief visit paid latest November to Morocco by Xi Jinping and his meeting with Crown Prince Moulay Hassan, saying the visit was sign of the growing economic ties between China and Morocco, the largest automotive manufacturing hub in Africa.

In the last couple of years, investment in Morocco from Chinese energy and electric vehicle and battery producers has exploded, with $10 billion directed to that industry, said the U.S. newspaper, noting that dozens of Chinese companies involved in automobile manufacturing are setting up shop in Morocco, including the battery maker Gotion High-tech.

The boom is a sign of the growing importance of countries like Morocco, which has a free-trade agreement with the European Union, that serve as connective nodes in a global trading system that is remaking itself around an obstacle course of high tariffs, trade restrictions and geopolitical rivalries.

Beijing wants to leverage Moroccos key advantages, said Alexandre Kateb, an economist and founder of the Multipolarity Report, a strategic advisory platform.

At the doorstep of Europe and Africa, Morocco has been building an automotive industry ecosystem for 20 years, Mr. Kateb said. The country has a sophisticated transportation network that includes ports like Tangier-Med and large reserves of phosphates, which are used in producing car batteries. The country also has been moving swiftly to transition to clean energy.

Morocco became the leading car exporter to the European Union in 2023, surpassing China, Japan and India, according to Auto World Journal.

The French carmaker Renault, drawn by lower labor and energy costs than in Europe, has been manufacturing in the country for more than 20 years. The auto group Stellantis, which owns Chrysler and Jeep, has been expanding its footprint in Morocco since 2019.

For Chinese automakers, Morocco could now play that same role for Europe that Mexico did for manufacturers that sought to sidestep U.S. tariffs, said Ahmed Aboudouh, an associate fellow at the Middle East and North Africa program at Chatham House.

But sharpening tensions between China and the United States as well as China and Europe have created a difficult balancing act for Morocco which sees China as a major partner and is aware of the risk, said Aboudouh.

Chinese loans and investments through its Belt and Road Initiative have helped power Moroccos economic development, helping to build the kingdoms infrastructure with projects like a high-speed rail line, solar power plants and a $10 billion tech hub in Tangier. This year, a Chinese company was chosen to provide steel for a planned $26 billion gas pipeline between Nigeria and Morocco.

At the same time, the U.S. strategic partnership is also a priority for Morocco, Mr. Aboudouh said. Morocco engages in military exercises with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and collaborates with the United States on counterterrorism. Morocco would also like to procure American F-35 stealth fighter jets.

The North African Kingdom has had a free-trade agreement with the United States for two decades. Mr. Trump has, nonetheless, subjected it to a 10 percent across-the-board tariff that he imposed on virtually all imports. But Morocco has not been threatened with the additional punishing tariff levels directed at nations like Mexico, Vietnam and Thailand, said the prestigious daily, stressing that Morocco has been following a hedging strategy for a long time.
King Mohammed VI launched construction works for an emergency supply platform spanning over 20 hectares in Rabat, part of a national emergency relief plan.

Under the directive of the King, each region in the Kingdom will be equipped with a major platform for essential supplies (including tents, blankets, beds, medicines, and foodstuffs) to provide immediate relief in the event of disasters such as floods, earthquakes, chemical, industrial, or radiological risks.

Rabats platform, worth 287 million dirhams, will be ready in a year and will include four warehouses, two shelters for oversized equipment (each 2,500 m), a heliport, and parking facilities.

The investment is part of a national plan to boost Moroccos emergency response worth 7 billion dirhams, including 2 MMDH for construction and 5 MMDH for acquiring products and equipment.

In total, Morocco plans to build 36 platforms over 240 hectares, distributed across the 12 Moroccan regions.

The stored products and equipment aim to ensure a rapid response to affected populations and provide diligent and reasonable coverage of needs in terms of rescue, aid, and care, in line with His Majesty the Kings proactive vision.

The platforms will store 200,000 tents and associated equipment (camp beds, mattresses, blankets, etc.), mobile bakeries and kitchens, as well as food kits for affected families, quipment for water purification and potabilization, and electricity generation through towable generators, Stocks of equipment for flood control, earthquake rescue, landslide and mudslide response, and chemical, industrial, or radiological risk management as well as 6 field hospitals.

The storage of food and medicines will be managed by specialized teams and subject to strict regulations, adhering to relevant norms and standards.

The establishment of these platforms will contribute to the development of national emergency infrastructures, improve the overall crisis intervention system, ensure more efficient delivery of aid to affected populations, and strengthen Moroccos resilience to various types of crises.
Illustration: New York Magazine

This article was featured in One Great Story, New Yorks reading recommendation newsletter. Sign up here to get it nightly.

Chungin Roy Lee stepped onto Columbia Universitys campus this past fall and, by his own admission, proceeded to use generative artificial intelligence to cheat on nearly every assignment. As a computer-science major, he depended on AI for his introductory programming classes: Id just dump the prompt into ChatGPT and hand in whatever it spat out. By his rough math, AI wrote 80 percent of every essay he turned in. At the end, Id put on the finishing touches. Id just insert 20 percent of my humanity, my voice, into it, Lee told me recently.

Lee was born in South Korea and grew up outside Atlanta, where his parents run a college-prep consulting business. He said he was admitted to Harvard early in his senior year of high school, but the university rescinded its offer after he was suspended for sneaking out during an overnight field trip before graduation. A year later, he applied to 26 schools; he didnt get into any of them. So he spent the next year at a community college, before transferring to Columbia. (His personal essay, which turned his winding road to higher education into a parable for his ambition to build companies, was written with help from ChatGPT.) When he started at Columbia as a sophomore this past September, he didnt worry much about academics or his GPA. Most assignments in college are not relevant, he told me. Theyre hackable by AI, and I just had no interest in doing them. While other new students fretted over the universitys rigorous core curriculum, described by the school as intellectually expansive and personally transformative, Lee used AI to breeze through with minimal effort. When I asked him why he had gone through so much trouble to get to an Ivy League university only to off-load all of the learning to a robot, he said, Its the best place to meet your co-founder and your wife.

By the end of his first semester, Lee checked off one of those boxes. He met a co-founder, Neel Shanmugam, a junior in the school of engineering, and together they developed a series of potential start-ups: a dating app just for Columbia students, a sales tool for liquor distributors, and a note-taking app. None of them took off. Then Lee had an idea. As a coder, he had spent some 600 miserable hours on LeetCode, a training platform that prepares coders to answer the algorithmic riddles tech companies ask job and internship candidates during interviews. Lee, like many young developers, found the riddles tedious and mostly irrelevant to the work coders might actually do on the job. What was the point? What if they built a program that hid AI from browsers during remote job interviews so that interviewees could cheat their way through instead?

In February, Lee and Shanmugam launched a tool that did just that. Interview Coders website featured a banner that read F*CK LEETCODE. Lee posted a video of himself on YouTube using it to cheat his way through an internship interview with Amazon. (He actually got the internship, but turned it down.) A month later, Lee was called into Columbias academic-integrity office. The school put him on disciplinary probation after a committee found him guilty of advertising a link to a cheating tool and providing students with the knowledge to access this tool and use it how they see fit, according to the committees report.

Lee thought it absurd that Columbia, which had a partnership with ChatGPTs parent company, OpenAI, would punish him for innovating with AI. Although Columbias policy on AI is similar to that of many other universities  students are prohibited from using it unless their professor explicitly permits them to do so, either on a class-by-class or case-by-case basis  Lee said he doesnt know a single student at the school who isnt using AI to cheat. To be clear, Lee doesnt think this is a bad thing. I think we are years  or months, probably  away from a world where nobody thinks using AI for homework is considered cheating, he said.

In January 2023, just two months after OpenAI launched ChatGPT, a survey of 1,000 college students found that nearly 90 percent of them had used the chatbot to help with homework assignments. In its first year of existence, ChatGPTs total monthly visits steadily increased month-over-month until June, when schools let out for the summer. (That wasnt an anomaly: Traffic dipped again over the summer in 2024.) Professors and teaching assistants increasingly found themselves staring at essays filled with clunky, robotic phrasing that, though grammatically flawless, didnt sound quite like a college student  or even a human. Two and a half years later, students at large state schools, the Ivies, liberal-arts schools in New England, universities abroad, professional schools, and community colleges are relying on AI to ease their way through every facet of their education. Generative-AI chatbots  ChatGPT but also Googles Gemini, Anthropics Claude, Microsofts Copilot, and others  take their notes during class, devise their study guides and practice tests, summarize novels and textbooks, and brainstorm, outline, and draft their essays. STEM students are using AI to automate their research and data analyses and to sail through dense coding and debugging assignments. College is just how well I can use ChatGPT at this point, a student in Utah recently captioned a video of herself copy-and-pasting a chapter from her Genocide and Mass Atrocity textbook into ChatGPT.

Sarah, a freshman at Wilfrid Laurier University in Ontario, said she first used ChatGPT to cheat during the spring semester of her final year of high school. (Sarahs name, like those of other current students in this article, has been changed for privacy.) After getting acquainted with the chatbot, Sarah used it for all her classes: Indigenous studies, law, English, and a hippie farming class called Green Industries. My grades were amazing, she said. It changed my life. Sarah continued to use AI when she started college this past fall. Why wouldnt she? Rarely did she sit in class and not see other students laptops open to ChatGPT. Toward the end of the semester, she began to think she might be dependent on the website. She already considered herself addicted to TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and Reddit, where she writes under the username maybeimnotsmart. I spend so much time on TikTok, she said. Hours and hours, until my eyes start hurting, which makes it hard to plan and do my schoolwork. With ChatGPT, I can write an essay in two hours that normally takes 12.

Teachers have tried AI-proofing assignments, returning to Blue Books or switching to oral exams. Brian Patrick Green, a tech-ethics scholar at Santa Clara University, immediately stopped assigning essays after he tried ChatGPT for the first time. Less than three months later, teaching a course called Ethics and Artificial Intelligence, he figured a low-stakes reading reflection would be safe  surely no one would dare use ChatGPT to write something personal. But one of his students turned in a reflection with robotic language and awkward phrasing that Green knew was AI-generated. A philosophy professor across the country at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock caught students in her Ethics and Technology class using AI to respond to the prompt Briefly introduce yourself and say what youre hoping to get out of this class.

It isnt as if cheating is new. But now, as one student put it, the ceiling has been blown off. Who could resist a tool that makes every assignment easier with seemingly no consequences? After spending the better part of the past two years grading AI-generated papers, Troy Jollimore, a poet, philosopher, and Cal State Chico ethics professor, has concerns. Massive numbers of students are going to emerge from university with degrees, and into the workforce, who are essentially illiterate, he said. Both in the literal sense and in the sense of being historically illiterate and having no knowledge of their own culture, much less anyone elses. That future may arrive sooner than expected when you consider what a short window college really is. Already, roughly half of all undergrads have never experienced college without easy access to generative AI. Were talking about an entire generation of learning perhaps significantly undermined here, said Green, the Santa Clara tech ethicist. Its short-circuiting the learning process, and its happening fast.

Before OpenAI released ChatGPT in November 2022, cheating had already reached a sort of zenith. At the time, many college students had finished high school remotely, largely unsupervised, and with access to tools like Chegg and Course Hero. These companies advertised themselves as vast online libraries of textbooks and course materials but, in reality, were cheating multi-tools. For $15.95 a month, Chegg promised answers to homework questions in as little as 30 minutes, 24/7, from the 150,000 experts with advanced degrees it employed, mostly in India. When ChatGPT launched, students were primed for a tool that was faster, more capable.

But school administrators were stymied. There would be no way to enforce an all-out ChatGPT ban, so most adopted an ad hoc approach, leaving it up to professors to decide whether to allow students to use AI. Some universities welcomed it, partnering with developers, rolling out their own chatbots to help students register for classes, or launching new classes, certificate programs, and majors focused on generative AI. But regulation remained difficult. How much AI help was acceptable? Should students be able to have a dialogue with AI to get ideas but not ask it to write the actual sentences?

These days, professors will often state their policy on their syllabi  allowing AI, for example, as long as students cite it as if it were any other source, or permitting it for conceptual help only, or requiring students to provide receipts of their dialogue with a chatbot. Students often interpret those instructions as guidelines rather than hard rules. Sometimes they will cheat on their homework without even knowing  or knowing exactly how much  they are violating university policy when they ask a chatbot to clean up a draft or find a relevant study to cite. Wendy, a freshman finance major at one of the citys top universities, told me that she is against using AI. Or, she clarified, Im against copy-and-pasting. Im against cheating and plagiarism. All of that. Its against the student handbook. Then she described, step-by-step, how on a recent Friday at 8 a.m., she called up an AI platform to help her write a four-to-five-page essay due two hours later.

Whenever Wendy uses AI to write an essay (which is to say, whenever she writes an essay), she follows three steps. Step one: I say, Im a first-year college student. Im taking this English class. Otherwise, Wendy said, it will give you a very advanced, very complicated writing style, and you dont want that. Step two: Wendy provides some background on the class shes taking before copy-and-pasting her professors instructions into the chatbot. Step three: Then I ask, According to the prompt, can you please provide me an outline or an organization to give me a structure so that I can follow and write my essay? It then gives me an outline, introduction, topic sentences, paragraph one, paragraph two, paragraph three. Sometimes, Wendy asks for a bullet list of ideas to support or refute a given argument: I have difficulty with organization, and this makes it really easy for me to follow.

Once the chatbot had outlined Wendys essay, providing her with a list of topic sentences and bullet points of ideas, all she had to do was fill it in. Wendy delivered a tidy five-page paper at an acceptably tardy 10:17 a.m. When I asked her how she did on the assignment, she said she got a good grade. I really like writing, she said, sounding strangely nostalgic for her high-school English class  the last time she wrote an essay unassisted. Honestly, she continued, I think there is beauty in trying to plan your essay. You learn a lot. You have to think, Oh, what can I write in this paragraph? Or What should my thesis be?  But shed rather get good grades. An essay with ChatGPT, its like it just gives you straight up what you have to follow. You just dont really have to think that much.

I asked Wendy if I could read the paper she turned in, and when I opened the document, I was surprised to see the topic: critical pedagogy, the philosophy of education pioneered by Paulo Freire. The philosophy examines the influence of social and political forces on learning and classroom dynamics. Her opening line: To what extent is schooling hindering students cognitive ability to think critically? Later, I asked Wendy if she recognized the irony in using AI to write not just a paper on critical pedagogy but one that argues learning is what makes us truly human. She wasnt sure what to make of the question. I use AI a lot. Like, every day, she said. And I do believe it could take away that critical-thinking part. But its just  now that we rely on it, we cant really imagine living without it.

Most of the writing professors I spoke to told me that its abundantly clear when their students use AI. Sometimes theres a smoothness to the language, a flattened syntax; other times, its clumsy and mechanical. The arguments are too evenhanded  counterpoints tend to be presented just as rigorously as the papers central thesis. Words like multifaceted and context pop up more than they might normally. On occasion, the evidence is more obvious, as when last year a teacher reported reading a paper that opened with As an AI, I have been programmed  Usually, though, the evidence is more subtle, which makes nailing an AI plagiarist harder than identifying the deed. Some professors have resorted to deploying so-called Trojan horses, sticking strange phrases, in small white text, in between the paragraphs of an essay prompt. (The idea is that this would theoretically prompt ChatGPT to insert a non sequitur into the essay.) Students at Santa Clara recently found the word broccoli hidden in a professors assignment. Last fall, a professor at the University of Oklahoma sneaked the phrases mention Finland and mention Dua Lipa in his. A student discovered his trap and warned her classmates about it on TikTok. It does work sometimes, said Jollimore, the Cal State Chico professor. Ive used How would Aristotle answer this? when we hadnt read Aristotle. But Ive also used absurd ones and they didnt notice that there was this crazy thing in their paper, meaning these are people who not only didnt write the paper but also didnt read their own paper before submitting it.

Still, while professors may think they are good at detecting AI-generated writing, studies have found theyre actually not. One, published in June 2024, used fake student profiles to slip 100 percent AI-generated work into professors grading piles at a U.K. university. The professors failed to flag 97 percent. It doesnt help that since ChatGPTs launch, AIs capacity to write human-sounding essays has only gotten better. Which is why universities have enlisted AI detectors like Turnitin, which uses AI to recognize patterns in AI-generated text. After evaluating a block of text, detectors provide a percentage score that indicates the alleged likelihood it was AI-generated. Students talk about professors who are rumored to have certain thresholds (25 percent, say) above which an essay might be flagged as an honor-code violation. But I couldnt find a single professor  at large state schools or small private schools, elite or otherwise  who admitted to enforcing such a policy. Most seemed resigned to the belief that AI detectors dont work. Its true that different AI detectors have vastly different success rates, and there is a lot of conflicting data. While some claim to have less than a one percent false-positive rate, studies have shown they trigger more false positives for essays written by neurodivergent students and students who speak English as a second language. Turnitins chief product officer, Annie Chechitelli, told me that the product is tuned to err on the side of caution, more inclined to trigger a false negative than a false positive so that teachers dont wrongly accuse students of plagiarism. I fed Wendys essay through a free AI detector, ZeroGPT, and it came back as 11.74 AI-generated, which seemed low given that AI, at the very least, had generated her central arguments. I then fed a chunk of text from the Book of Genesis into ZeroGPT and it came back as 93.33 percent AI-generated.

There are, of course, plenty of simple ways to fool both professors and detectors. After using AI to produce an essay, students can always rewrite it in their own voice or add typos. Or they can ask AI to do that for them: One student on TikTok said her preferred prompt is Write it as a college freshman who is a lil dumb. Students can also launder AI-generated paragraphs through other AIs, some of which advertise the authenticity of their outputs or allow students to upload their past essays to train the AI in their voice. Theyre really good at manipulating the systems. You put a prompt in ChatGPT, then put the output into another AI system, then put it into another AI system. At that point, if you put it into an AI-detection system, it decreases the percentage of AI used every time, said Eric, a sophomore at Stanford.

Most professors have come to the conclusion that stopping rampant AI abuse would require more than simply policing individual cases and would likely mean overhauling the education system to consider students more holistically. Cheating correlates with mental health, well-being, sleep exhaustion, anxiety, depression, belonging, said Denise Pope, a senior lecturer at Stanford and one of the worlds leading student-engagement researchers.

Many teachers now seem to be in a state of despair. In the fall, Sam Williams was a teaching assistant for a writing-intensive class on music and social change at the University of Iowa that, officially, didnt allow students to use AI at all. Williams enjoyed reading and grading the classs first assignment: a personal essay that asked the students to write about their own music tastes. Then, on the second assignment, an essay on the New Orleans jazz era (1890 to 1920), many of his students writing styles changed drastically. Worse were the ridiculous factual errors. Multiple essays contained entire paragraphs on Elvis Presley (born in 1935). I literally told my class, Hey, dont use AI. But if youre going to cheat, you have to cheat in a way thats intelligent. You cant just copy exactly what it spits out, Williams said.

Williams knew most of the students in this general-education class were not destined to be writers, but he thought the work of getting from a blank page to a few semi-coherent pages was, above all else, a lesson in effort. In that sense, most of his students utterly failed. Theyre using AI because its a simple solution and its an easy way for them not to put in time writing essays. And I get it, because I hated writing essays when I was in school, Williams said. But now, whenever they encounter a little bit of difficulty, instead of fighting their way through that and growing from it, they retreat to something that makes it a lot easier for them.

By November, Williams estimated that at least half of his students were using AI to write their papers. Attempts at accountability were pointless. Williams had no faith in AI detectors, and the professor teaching the class instructed him not to fail individual papers, even the clearly AI-smoothed ones. Every time I brought it up with the professor, I got the sense he was underestimating the power of ChatGPT, and the departmental stance was, Well, its a slippery slope, and we cant really prove theyre using AI, Williams said. I was told to grade based on what the essay wouldve gotten if it were a true attempt at a paper. So I was grading people on their ability to use ChatGPT.

The true attempt at a paper policy ruined Williamss grading scale. If he gave a solid paper that was obviously written with AI a B, what should he give a paper written by someone who actually wrote their own paper but submitted, in his words, a barely literate essay? The confusion was enough to sour Williams on education as a whole. By the end of the semester, he was so disillusioned that he decided to drop out of graduate school altogether. Were in a new generation, a new time, and I just dont think thats what I want to do, he said.

Jollimore, who has been teaching writing for more than two decades, is now convinced that the humanities, and writing in particular, are quickly becoming an anachronistic art elective like basket-weaving. Every time I talk to a colleague about this, the same thing comes up: retirement. When can I retire? When can I get out of this? Thats what were all thinking now, he said. This is not what we signed up for. Williams, and other educators I spoke to, described AIs takeover as a full-blown existential crisis. The students kind of recognize that the system is broken and that theres not really a point in doing this. Maybe the original meaning of these assignments has been lost or is not being communicated to them well.

He worries about the long-term consequences of passively allowing 18-year-olds to decide whether to actively engage with their assignments. Would it accelerate the widening soft-skills gap in the workplace? If students rely on AI for their education, what skills would they even bring to the workplace? Lakshya Jain, a computer-science lecturer at the University of California, Berkeley, has been using those questions in an attempt to reason with his students. If youre handing in AI work, he tells them, youre not actually anything different than a human assistant to an artificial-intelligence engine, and that makes you very easily replaceable. Why would anyone keep you around? Thats not theoretical: The COO of a tech research firm recently asked Jain why he needed programmers any longer.

The ideal of college as a place of intellectual growth, where students engage with deep, profound ideas, was gone long before ChatGPT. The combination of high costs and a winner-takes-all economy had already made it feel transactional, a means to an end. (In a recent survey, Deloitte found that just over half of college graduates believe their education was worth the tens of thousands of dollars it costs a year, compared with 76 percent of trade-school graduates.) In a way, the speed and ease with which AI proved itself able to do college-level work simply exposed the rot at the core. How can we expect them to grasp what education means when we, as educators, havent begun to undo the years of cognitive and spiritual damage inflicted by a society that treats schooling as a means to a high-paying job, maybe some social status, but nothing more? Jollimore wrote in a recent essay. Or, worse, to see it as bearing no value at all, as if it were a kind of confidence trick, an elaborate sham?

Its not just the students: Multiple AI platforms now offer tools to leave AI-generated feedback on students essays. Which raises the possibility that AIs are now evaluating AI-generated papers, reducing the entire academic exercise to a conversation between two robots  or maybe even just one.

Itll be years before we can fully account for what all of this is doing to students brains. Some early research shows that when students off-load cognitive duties onto chatbots, their capacity for memory, problem-solving, and creativity could suffer. Multiple studies published within the past year have linked AI usage with a deterioration in critical-thinking skills; one found the effect to be more pronounced in younger participants. In February, Microsoft and Carnegie Mellon University published a study that found a persons confidence in generative AI correlates with reduced critical-thinking effort. The net effect seems, if not quite Wall-E, at least a dramatic reorganization of a persons efforts and abilities, away from high-effort inquiry and fact-gathering and toward integration and verification. This is all especially unnerving if you add in the reality that AI is imperfect  it might rely on something that is factually inaccurate or just make something up entirely  with the ruinous effect social media has had on Gen Zs ability to tell fact from fiction. The problem may be much larger than generative AI. The so-called Flynn effect refers to the consistent rise in IQ scores from generation to generation going back to at least the 1930s. That rise started to slow, and in some cases reverse, around 2006. The greatest worry in these times of generative AI is not that it may compromise human creativity or intelligence, Robert Sternberg, a psychology professor at Cornell University, told The Guardian, but that it already has.

Students are worrying about this, even if theyre not willing or able to give up the chatbots that are making their lives exponentially easier. Daniel, a computer-science major at the University of Florida, told me he remembers the first time he tried ChatGPT vividly. He marched down the hall to his high-school computer-science teachers classroom, he said, and whipped out his Chromebook to show him. I was like, Dude, you have to see this! My dad can look back on Steve Jobss iPhone keynote and think, Yeah, that was a big moment. Thats what it was like for me, looking at something that I would go on to use every day for the rest of my life.

AI has made Daniel more curious; he likes that whenever he has a question, he can quickly access a thorough answer. But when he uses AI for homework, he often wonders, If I took the time to learn that, instead of just finding it out, would I have learned a lot more? At school, he asks ChatGPT to make sure his essays are polished and grammatically correct, to write the first few paragraphs of his essays when hes short on time, to handle the grunt work in his coding classes, to cut basically all cuttable corners. Sometimes, he knows his use of AI is a clear violation of student conduct, but most of the time it feels like hes in a gray area. I dont think anyone calls seeing a tutor cheating, right? But what happens when a tutor starts writing lines of your paper for you? he said.

Recently, Mark, a freshman math major at the University of Chicago, admitted to a friend that he had used ChatGPT more than usual to help him code one of his assignments. His friend offered a somewhat comforting metaphor: You can be a contractor building a house and use all these power tools, but at the end of the day, the house wont be there without you. Still, Mark said, its just really hard to judge. Is this my work?  I asked Daniel a hypothetical to try to understand where he thought his work began and AIs ended: Would he be upset if he caught a romantic partner sending him an AI-generated poem? I guess the question is what is the value proposition of the thing youre given? Is it that they created it? Or is the value of the thing itself? he said. In the past, giving someone a letter usually did both things. These days, he sends handwritten notes  after he has drafted them using ChatGPT.

Language is the mother, not the handmaiden, of thought, wrote Duke professor Orin Starn in a recent column titled My Losing Battle Against AI Cheating, citing a quote often attributed to W. H. Auden. But its not just writing that develops critical thinking. Learning math is working on your ability to systematically go through a process to solve a problem. Even if youre not going to use algebra or trigonometry or calculus in your career, youre going to use those skills to keep track of whats up and whats down when things dont make sense, said Michael Johnson, an associate provost at Texas A&M University. Adolescents benefit from structured adversity, whether its algebra or chores. They build self-esteem and work ethic. Its why the social psychologist Jonathan Haidt has argued for the importance of children learning to do hard things, something that technology is making infinitely easier to avoid. Sam Altman, OpenAIs CEO, has tended to brush off concerns about AI use in academia as shortsighted, describing ChatGPT as merely a calculator for words and saying the definition of cheating needs to evolve. Writing a paper the old-fashioned way is not going to be the thing, Altman, a Stanford dropout, said last year. But speaking before the Senates oversight committee on technology in 2023, he confessed his own reservations: I worry that as the models get better and better, the users can have sort of less and less of their own discriminating process. OpenAI hasnt been shy about marketing to college students. It recently made ChatGPT Plus, normally a $20-per-month subscription, free to them during finals. (OpenAI contends that students and teachers need to be taught how to use it responsibly, pointing to the ChatGPT Edu product it sells to academic institutions.)

In late March, Columbia suspended Lee after he posted details about his disciplinary hearing on X. He has no plans to go back to school and has no desire to work for a big-tech company, either. Lee explained to me that by showing the world AI could be used to cheat during a remote job interview, he had pushed the tech industry to evolve the same way AI was forcing higher education to evolve. Every technological innovation has caused humanity to sit back and think about what work is actually useful, he said. There might have been people complaining about machinery replacing blacksmiths in, like, the 1600s or 1800s, but now its just accepted that its useless to learn how to blacksmith.

Lee has already moved on from hacking interviews. In April, he and Shanmugam launched Cluely, which scans a users computer screen and listens to its audio in order to provide AI feedback and answers to questions in real time without prompting. We built Cluely so you never have to think alone again, the companys manifesto reads. This time, Lee attempted a viral launch with a $140,000 scripted advertisement in which a young software engineer, played by Lee, uses Cluely installed on his glasses to lie his way through a first date with an older woman. When the date starts going south, Cluely suggests Lee reference her art and provides a script for him to follow. I saw your profile and the painting with the tulips. You are the most gorgeous girl ever, Lee reads off his glasses, which rescues his chances with her.

Before launching Cluely, Lee and Shanmugam raised $5.3 million from investors, which allowed them to hire two coders, friends Lee met in community college (no job interviews or LeetCode riddles were necessary), and move to San Francisco. When we spoke a few days after Cluelys launch, Lee was at his Realtors office and about to get the keys to his new workspace. He was running Cluely on his computer as we spoke. While Cluely cant yet deliver real-time answers through peoples glasses, the idea is that someday soon itll run on a wearable device, seeing, hearing, and reacting to everything in your environment. Then, eventually, its just in your brain, Lee said matter-of-factly. For now, Lee hopes people will use Cluely to continue AIs siege on education. Were going to target the digital LSATs; digital GREs; all campus assignments, quizzes, and tests, he said. It will enable you to cheat on pretty much everything.

One Great Story: A Nightly Newsletter for the Best of New York The one story you shouldnt miss today, selected by New Yorks editors. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Vox Media, LLC Terms and Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us.
Alberta could vote next year on whether to separate from Canada if a citizen-led petition gathers the requisite number of signatures requesting such a question to be put to a referendum.

Thats what Danielle Smith, the Premier of the Alberta province, which is the heart of Canadas oil industry, said this week, just after the Liberals led by Mark Carney won the federal election and ahead of Carneys meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in the White House.

Smith stressed that the provincial government itself would not be seeking a referendum on an Alberta secession.

To be clear from the outset, our government will not be putting a vote on separation from Canada on the referendum ballot; however, if there is a successful citizen-led referendum petition that is able to gather the requisite number of signatures requesting such a question to be put to a referendum, our government will respect the democratic process and include that question on the 2026 provincial referendum ballot as well, Smith said.

The government of Alberta will create an Alberta Next panel aimed at protecting the province from any current or future hostile policies of the federal government, including attempts to block Albertas resource development.

Following the federal election, Alberta will take steps to protect itself from overreaching federal policies and will pursue a new Alberta Accord within Canada, require Albertas consent on any export restrictions of Canadian resources, and demand guaranteed port access for Alberta energy and resources, Smith said.

Related: U.S. Freeport LNG Export Plant Set to Resume Service After Outage

The premier reiterated that I do not support Alberta separating from Canada. I personally still have hope that there is a path forward for a strong and sovereign Alberta within a United Canada.

So I am going to do everything within my power to negotiate a fair deal for Alberta with the new Prime Minister, Smith noted.

For years, Alberta has been opposing federal legislation regarding emissions and resource development. Alberta has been fighting the federal government on the plan to cap emissions from oil and gas production, which the province and the industry see essentially as a cap on output.

Analysts are skeptical about whether citizens in the province will gather enough signatures to include a vote on separation in a referendum.

These grievances are serious, John Soroski, a political scientist at MacEwan University in Edmonton, told Associated Press.

I think the prospects of separation are highly unlikely.

The issue of a possible referendum on Alberta's separation was raised hours before the newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney headed to the U.S. to meet with President Trump.

The meeting appeared friendlier than many expected, although Trump once again raised the proposal of a wonderful marriage of incorporating Canada into the U.S.

Carney firmly rejected the marriage proposal with a carefully worded reply, As you know from real estate, there are some places that are never for sale, and likened Canada to the Oval Office and to Britain's Buckingham Palace.

Having met with the owners of Canada over the course of the campaign in the last several months, it's not for sale. Won't be for sale, ever.

Before the meeting, President Trump took to his Truth Social platform to express his frustration with the U.S. trade deficit with Canada.

We dont need their Cars, we dont need their Energy, we dont need their Lumber, we dont need ANYTHING they have, other than their friendship, which hopefully we will always maintain, President Trump wrote on Tuesday, referring to Canada.

But the fact is that the U.S. needs Canadas energy, especially its crude oil, which is being refined in many refineries in the Midwest and on the Gulf Coast. Canada is the single biggest crude oil supplier to the United States, accounting for about 50% of U.S. gross petroleum imports with volumes of more than 4 million barrels per day (bpd).

The U.S. trade deficit with Canada jumped to $4.9 billion in March 2025, sharply higher compared to previous months, data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis showed on Tuesday.

It was higher imports of cars, crude oil, and finished wood products  goods that Trump claims the U.S. doesnt need from Canada  that pushed up the U.S. deficit with its neighbor to the north.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
The European Commission aims to end all imports of Russian oil, gas, and nuclear energy by 2027, with new gas contracts stopping by 2025.

Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico labeled the EUs energy phase-out plan as "economic suicide," warning it would damage the EU more than Russia.

Slovakia criticized on Wednesday the European Commissions roadmap to phase out imports of all kinds of Russian energy by 2027, particularly natural gas, claiming that it is economic suicide that will hurt the EU more than Russia.

The European Unions executive arm, the European Commission, on Tuesday unveiled a roadmap to fully end EU dependency on Russian energy. The roadmap will see a gradual removal of Russian oil, gas, and nuclear energy from the EU markets in a coordinated and secure manner as the EU transitions to clean energy, the Commission said.

For gas, the Commission proposes to cease all imports of Russian gas by the end of 2027 by improving the transparency, monitoring, and traceability of Russian gas across the EU markets. New contracts with suppliers of Russian gas will be prevented and spot contracts (for immediate payment) will be stopped by the end of 2025, according to the roadmap.

However, Slovakia, which is one of the few EU member states still receiving Russian gas, says that the EU plan is unacceptable in its current form, Slovakias Prime Minister Robert Fico said on Wednesday.

This is simply economic suicide to go to the point where neither gas, nor nuclear, nor oil, everything must end just because some new Iron Curtain is being built between the Western world and perhaps Russia and other countries, Fico said, as quoted by Reuters.

While Slovakia agrees with the idea to reduce EU dependence on energy from third countries, it thinks the roadmap as-is would only lead to higher energy prices that would be another major hit to the blocs competitiveness, which has already been severely eroded since 2022.

The EU has reduced the share of Russian gas imports, from 45% of all gas imports before 2022, down to 18% now, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said at the end of April.

Hungary also slammed on Wednesday the EU plan to phase out gas imports. Hungarys Prime Minister Viktor Orban continues to maintain close ties with Russia and Putin, and Hungary still receives Russian gas via the TurkStream pipeline through the Balkans.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
OPEC+ served two surprises to the oil trading world in a matter of weeks. First, it said it would bring back three times the amount of oil supply it planned to originally in May. Then, it said it would repeat the exercise in June. And then it emerged that Saudi Arabia is raising selling prices for Asia when it would have made more sense to cut them, on the face of it. OPEC+ is in the spotlight and its probably enjoying it as prices slide further down and U.S. shale drillers curb activity.

OPEC+ said in April it would add 411,000 bpd to its collective output in May, throwing the oil market in disarray after curbing supply for months in a bid to prop up oil prices. The move was such a reversal of tactics that it was quite understandable that it took everyone by surprise. Prices fell. Speculation abounded, with analysts suggesting anything from Saudi Arabia doing Trumps bidding to being so desperate theyd opted for flooding the market in the tried and tested method of dealing with competition in a rather final way.

Officially, OPEC+ members that have been cutting their output said that the market fundamentals were healthy enough to absorb not one but two monthly boosts of 411,000 bpd each. Unofficially, the story is that the Saudis got fed up with the Iraqis and the Kazakhs who have been overproducing pretty much since the production cuts began. Kazakhstan really annoyed Riyadh, per that story, by not just overproducing but reaching record-high output levels earlier this year.

Some cited data about Asian crude oil imports as evidence that OPEC+ is trying to pump up a narrative that does not reflect reality. The argument is that imports into the biggest demand region are weakening and global inventories are only slightly below the five-year average. So, we have a pretty well-supplied market, and OPEC+ is shooting itself in the leg with the output additions.

Of course, there is also the oil demand outlook. The oil demand outlook is grim if one follows the International Energy Agency. But Saudi Arabia, OPECs leader, does not follow the International Energy Agency. In fact, Saudi Arabia has a serious issue with the IEA and its forecasts, which the Saudis have slammed as blatantly biased in favor of the energy transition.

Right now, the demand outlook is widely believed to be grim because of Trumps tariff offensive against the world of trade. This outlook was a big reason why traders started the selloff in oil that brought prices down and then extended it as OPEC+ surprised said market with its two consecutive decisions to add more to that well-supplied market than initially planned.

And then the news came that Saudi Arabia is raising its official selling price for crude for Asian buyers. In other news, OPECs total for April was down by 200,000 bpd, and not just because of the sudden slump in Venezuelan production after Chevron was kicked out by Trump. The UAE and Saudi Arabia also cut and the UAE was given the green light to actually raise production.

While traders and analysts try to wrap their heads around the logic guiding OPEC+, oil prices have rebounded because lower prices always and invariably stimulate greater demand for an essential commodity such as crude oil. Brent is back above $60 per barrel, and WTI has recovered to $58.

This, of course, does not mean prices cant fall again and stay fallen for an extended period of time. Perhaps at some point, it would even become officially clear whether the Saudis are doing Trumps bidding or simply looking after their own interests as they have done repeatedly over the years. In the meantime, OPECs competitors will be suffering. This might even be one big reason why the cartel is adding supply if history is any indication.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Natural gas is gradually going to overtake coal and crude oil as the biggest source of primary energy in Southeast Asia, with a share of 30% by 2050. This is according to a new Wood Mackenzie report, which has become the latest to admit the inevitable: hydrocarbons will be around for much longer than transition advocates want.

Currently, Southeast Asia is partial to coal-powered generation thanks to abundant local resources and price considerations. Also, demand for electricity has been on a strong rise in the region, prompting more coal power plant construction alongside transition buildouts of wind and solar.

Vietnam is a case in point. In recent years, soaring industrial activity and economic growth well above the global average have made the country a power-hungry, predominantly manufacturing economy. Vietnam has become a solar power leader among the countries in Southeast Asia, but it continues to rely on thermal coal for industry and is one of the few countries worldwide building new coal-fired power capacity.

At the same time, Vietnam, like its neighbors, is building a lot of wind and solar. The problem with wind and solar, as recently so brilliantly illuminated by Spain and Portugal, is that they need baseload generation as backup and as a source of reliable electricity. According to Wood Mackenzie, this source is going to shift from coal to natural gas, demand for which the consultancy sees growing at a compound annual growth rate of 3.1% until 2035.

Related: U.S. Freeport LNG Export Plant Set to Resume Service After Outage

With demand, generation capacity will grow, too, substantially. Wood Mac sees this growth twofold over the next two decades and a half, while consumption expands by 89.5%. If anything, this is further proof that growing economies need reliable, dispatchable energy to keep remain on the growth path.

As the head of gas and LNG research at Wood Mac, Johnson Quadros, put it, the surge in gas demand is driven by the regions rapidly growing economies, data centres expansion, the intermittent nature of renewable energy, and the ongoing transition from coal to gas power. However, the region faces challenges in meeting this demand through domestic production alone.

Indeed, the surge in gas demand that Wood Mac and others predict for Southeast Asiaand Asia as a wholewill cause a deeper dependence on imports because the region cannot cover its consumption locally. Indeed, transition outlet Global Energy Monitor has forecast the need for an 80% increase in LNG import capacity in Southeast Asia if natural gas demand continues to grow as strongly as it is growing currently.

Wood Mackenzie agrees, predicting the region will be a net importer of liquefied natural gas by 2032, with demand for the superchilled fuel rising by a whopping 182% over the next ten years, featuring some of the fastest national demand growth rates in the world. This will provide a massive boost for local production of natural gas.

As domestic gas demand rises and energy security becomes an increasing concern, Southeast Asian countriesparticularly Indonesia and Malaysia shift their focus toward boosting domestic production, principal research analyst Raghav Mathur said. He added that new developments will sustain local gas production into the 2030s but by the end of that decade, demand growth will overwhelm domestic supply capabilities, prompting new frontier exploration to offset natural field decline.

The supply problem with gas, however, may turn out to be larger than just Southeast Asia. The International Gas Union last year warned that Should gas demand continue to grow as in the last 4 years, without additional production development, a 22% global supply shortfall is expected by 2030.

Taken together with Wood Macs new report, this means that expectations of a gas glut on a global scale are quite premature, and not only because building all that LNG capacity that is supposed to tip the world into an oversupply is taking longer than forecasters assumed it would. Morgan Stanley last year noted there was 150 million tons per year in new LNG capacity under construction, with its analysts saying We expect gas market oversupply to reach multi-decade highs over the coming years. It seems they did not pay attention to Asian demand trendsand not just Asian, either.

Natural gas acquired a reputation for being a so-called bridge fuel between the oil age and the transition age. Then this reputation became the target of numerous attacks from pro-transition organizations on the grounds that although cleaner-burning than coal and oil, gas was still a hydrocarbon and, as such, evil. Indeed, some went as far as to produce research, claiming it was actually dirtier than coal. Now, gas is reasserting itself as a cleaner-burning alternative to coalat a price. It is the price issue that could interfere with the bright prospects of gas demand and keep coal dominant for longer. A growing economy needs reliable energy if it wants to keep growing.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
If India and Pakistan spiral into war, there will be consequences for Central Asia.

A war between Pakistan and India would likely have significant ripple effects on Central Asia, given the region's proximity to Afghanistan and flourishing economic ties across the region. The conflict could disrupt trade and energy routes, increase militancy, and draw in major powers like China, Russia, and the U.S., potentially straining Central Asian stability.

Intervention by external powers: The Central Asian republics (Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, the Kyrgyz Republic, and Tajikistan) are already arenas for competition among outside powers. A Pakistan-India conflict could draw these powers into the region more aggressively to secure their interests, though Russia is busy in Ukraine, Turkey is busy in Syria, and U.S. forces are fighting in the Middle East, and Washington is ready to confront China.

China is an ally of Pakistan and sponsor of the $65 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). China might deepen its presence in Central Asia to secure trade routes and counterbalance Indias regional influence. This could accelerate Chinese investments in infrastructure and energy projects that will increase trade with the region that totaled $89 billion in 2023, up 27% from 2022, $60 billion of which was Chinese exports.

And China may make further inroads into the Central Asia arms market given Moscows need to dedicate all its resources to the Russia-NATO war in Ukraine. This will allow China to broaden its engagement beyond infrastructure projects into the security realm that, up to now, has been limited to anti-terrorism training and intelligence sharing in Tajikistan.

Russia is an ally of India, a buyer of Russian arms, having purchased $60 billion of Russian arms, 65 percent of its total weapons imports, over the past twenty years With its historical ties to Central Asia and shared membership in the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), Russia might leverage a conflict to reinforce the regions border security, and increase intelligence sharing and security forces training.

Related: The Market Is Well Supplied - So Why Is Saudi Arabia Raising Oil Prices?

And just in time, Russia has declared it will help the Taliban government fight the Afghan branch of the Islamic State, the Islamic State  Khorasan Province (IS-K).

The United States could focus on Central Asia to counter China and Russia, potentially increasing military or economic aid to Uzbekistan or Kazakhstan, the major economies in the region. Unlike the leaders of Russia or China, no American president has ever visited Central Asia but President Donald Trump could signal increased U.S. attention by visiting the region.

Afghanistan as a flashpoint. Afghanistan, bordering both Pakistan and Central Asia, would likely become a hotspot. The Afghan Talibans support for the Pakistani Taliban, the Tehreek-e-Taliban-e-Pakistan (TTP) could further destabilize Pakistan, presenting Islamabad with the prospect of a two-front war, though recent visits by Pakistans diplomats, and military and security officials seeking a diplomat reboot may be just in time to stanch action by the TTP.

Instability would come to Central Asia via Afghanistan in the form of refugees and energized militants, and economic stagnation in the delay of development projects like the Trans-Afghan railway, the TurkmenistanAfghanistanPakistanIndia (TAPI) natural gas pipeline, and the CASA-1000 renewable energy infrastructure construction project.

General disorder may spill insecurity into Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, where cross-border militancy (e.g., the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU), which has pledged allegiance to al-Qaeda, and IS-K could surge.

And the instability will cause a slowdown in foreign direct investment that has steadily climbed as has foreign trade in goods and accession to bilateral investment treaties. The regions economy suffered lost decades between the start of the Afghan civil war in 1992 and the end of the NATO occupation of Afghanistan in 2021 and has been making steady progress in connecting to the wider world economy; Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan are completing the World Trade Organization (WTO) accession process, and Kazakhstan and Tajikistan are WTO members.

And just in time for a war, the World Bank is predicting economic slowdown for Central Asia: Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan will suffer pronounced declines, Kazakhstans decline will be less pronounced, and Uzbekistans growth rate will remain steady at 5.9%.

The U.S. may try to leverage disorder on Afghanistans border with Pakistan to pressure the Kabul government, but that risks empowering Al-Qaeda, IS-K, the hardline Taliban faction in Kandahar, or some combination of the three. Disorder in Pakistans Balochistan province, the poorest place in Pakistan, may energize the local separatists and draw in bordering Iran which faces a Baloch insurgence on its side of the border.

Indias Central Asian Ambitions. Indias efforts to access Central Asian and Afghan resources, via Irans Chabahar port, could be disrupted, forcing India to seek alternative routes or deepen ties with Russia and Iran, affecting regional alignments, and angering the U.S. which is trying to isolate Moscow and Tehran.

India imports uranium for its nuclear power program from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan and an uninterrupted supply by the republics will be a sign to India they value their relationship with Delhi.

Trade Route Disruptions: Central Asia relies on connectivity projects like CPEC and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC). A war could disrupt CPEC which links Chinas Xinjiang province to Pakistans Gwadar port and passes through contested areas like Kashmir. Indias trade routes to Central Asia via Iran and Afghanistan could be jeopardized if conflict escalates or Afghanistan becomes unstable, though if Indian merchantmen are unmolested by Pakistan the impact may be minimized and they will be able to safely dock at Iranian ports.

Tightened border controls will hurt regional trade that was boosted by eased border controls that teased the possibility of a unified regional market, following the resolution of many territorial disputes, a process that began in earnest after the 2016 election of Uzbekistans president, Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

The Central Asia republics trade with India and Pakistan and will be reluctant to be drawn into one sides economic warfare on the other. Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, the three largest economies in the region, all import packaged medicaments and vaccines from India and mostly food products from Pakistan, and may find it easier to replace the lower-valued agriculture products than disrupting their medical supply chain.

Pakistan and Kazakhstan recently inked a transit trade agreement that would see goods shipped from Central Asia through the Pakistani ports of Karachi, Bin Qasim, and Gwadar, and the start of direct flights between the countries. An India-Pakistan war will bring in the insurance companies who may cancel coverage to aircraft, trucks, and their cargoes, delaying the benefits of the deal.

Spillover of Militancy: A Pakistan-India war, especially if centered on Kashmir, could embolden extremist groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed or Lashkar-e-Taiba, which have historical ties to Afghan and Pakistani militants. This could inspire increased terrorist activity in Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, where groups like the IMU and IS-K could exploit regional conflict for recruitment and radicalization.

Nuclear Risks: Both nations possess nuclear arsenals, less than 200 weapons each. Even a limited nuclear exchange could cause dire environmental and climatic effects, disrupting Central Asian agriculture and food security, and pretty much eliminating agriculture exports as customers fret about contamination, despite the prevailing westerly winds. In Uzbekistan, agriculture contributes about 25% to the Gross Domestic Product and employs about a quarter of the workforce, so the economic (and political) impact would be profound.

Conflict in Pakistan or Afghanistan could drive refugees into Central Asia, particularly Tajikistan, straining resources and sparking ethnic tensions, and destabilizing resource-strapped governments.

India and Pakistan are members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), as are several Central Asian states, and China and Russia. A war could paralyze SCO initiatives, hindering regional security and economic cooperation. Tensions might also exacerbate India-China rivalries within the SCO, affecting Central Asias balancing act.

Specific Impacts on Central Asian States

Tajikistan shares a porous border with Afghanistan, making it vulnerable to militancy and refugee inflows. Indias military training programs with Tajikistan could be disrupted, and its newly-refurbished (by India) Ayni Airbase base may worry Pakistan.) As a regional leader, Uzbekistan might seek to strengthen ties with Russia and China to counter instability, however, its trade with South Asia could suffer. Neutral but energy-dependent, Turkmenistan could benefit from Chinese energy demand. As the major Central Asia economy, Kazakhstan might leverage its SCO and Eurasian Economic Union ties to mitigate disruptions but could face energy market volatility. Kyrgyzstan is economically fragile and be hit hard by trade disruptions increasing reliance on China or Russia.

Long-Term Implications

Regional Polarization: Central Asia could become more divided, with some states aligning with China (e.g., Turkmenistan) and others with Russia or the West (e.g., Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan), hindering regional unity, which may be in the interests of Washington, Beijing, Brussels, or Moscow.

Securitization: Fear of spillover could lead Central Asian states to increase security spending, diverting resources from economic development. More than half of Central Asias population is under 30 years of age and they have high expectations that governments are trying to satisfy by increasing educational and economic opportunity, and diversifying the economies away from agriculture and natural resource extraction, and towards technology, services, and tourism. And more security may come at the expense of civil rights.

Environmental Fallout: A nuclear conflict, even limited, could cause global climate disruptions, devastating Central Asias agriculture-dependent economies.

Conclusion

India has been active in Central Asia with its Connect Central Asia Policy, which aims to enhance trade, connectivity, and diplomatic engagement, and hinges on Indias development of Chabahar port in Iran, though the Trump administration rescinded the sanctions waiver on Chabahar. Washingtons fixation on Iran, specifically ruining its economy to press it for a favorable nuclear deal, may see India and Central Asia as collateral damage.

The republics import higher value goods from India (Packaged Medicaments) than they do from Pakistan (food products), and sell uranium  a strategic good  to India. India has a larger market than Pakistan and is a provider of technology products that Pakistan cannot match, and the republics future is with India, though they have no reason to antagonize Islamabad.

A Pakistan-India war would destabilize Central Asia by disrupting trade, fueling militancy, and intensifying great power rivalries. The regions proximity to Afghanistan and reliance on connectivity projects make it particularly vulnerable. Central Asian states would face economic strain, security threats, and pressure to align with external powers, potentially fracturing regional cooperation. The nuclear risk underscores the catastrophic potential, with global climatic effects threatening Central Asias food security and economic stability. To mitigate these risks, Central Asian states might pursue neutrality, strengthen SCO ties, or seek mediation roles, but their limited clout may constrain effective responses.

By James Durso

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Energy Transfer is targeting a final investment decision on its Lake Charles LNG export project in Louisiana by the end of the year as it is progressing with contracting LNG offtake volumes, the U.S. pipeline giant said during the Q1 earnings call.

Energy Transfer is developing the project, which will convert its existing Lake Charles LNG import and regasification facility into an LNG export facility.

The Lake Charles LNG project is fully permitted, uses existing infrastructure, and benefits from an abundant natural gas supply through existing connections to the Henry Hub and connectivity to Energy Transfers vast network of natural gas pipelines, the company says.

Over the past weeks, Energy Transfer has signed several offtake agreements. It is currently in discussions for the remaining uncommitted LNG offtake volume and is targeting FID by year-end, co-CEO and CFO Thomas Long said on the Q1 earnings call.

Last month, Energy Transfer entered into a Heads of Agreement (HOA) with MidOcean Energy for the joint development of the Lake Charles LNG project, which MidOcean would commit to fund 30% of construction costs and be entitled to receive 30% of LNG production, or about 5 million tonnes per year. This deal is subject to Energy Transfer LNG taking a positive final investment decision as well as the satisfaction of other conditions precedent.

Also in April, Lake Charles LNG signed a binding sales and purchase agreement with a Japanese utility company for up to 1.0 MTPA, subject to the approval of the board of directors of this company, expected by the end of May 2025. Lake Charles LNG also signed an HOA with a German energy company for 1.0 MTPA last month.

We are making substantial progress towards commercialization of the project, Energy Transfers Long said on the call with analysts.

Demand for U.S. LNG is high as Europe is buying up American cargoes to fill gas storage before next winter and appease U.S. President Donald Trump amid the tariff blitz on Americas trade partners.

However, higher costs, supply chain issues, and the U.S. steel tariffs could make large energy infrastructure projects much more expensive than originally planned.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
U.S. supermajor ExxonMobil plans to invest as much as $1.5 billion in deepwater oil and gas exploration and development offshore Nigeria, the local regulator, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), has said.

Exxon sold last year its onshore assets to local firm Seplat Energy, but is committed to offshore exploration and development in the country.

At the end of 2024, Nigerias regulators finally approved  after two years  Seplat Energys proposed acquisition of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPNU) from ExxonMobil.

Now the U.S. supermajor is committing to developing its offshore position in Nigeria.

Exxon plans the $1.5 billion investment between 2025 and 2027 for revitalizing production in the Usan deepwater oilfield, Nigerias NUPRC said.

The U.S. energy giant targets a final investment decision (FID) on the project for late in the third quarter of this year, subject to approval of its final Field Development Plan, as well as internal and partner funding approvals.

Shane Harris, ExxonMobils Managing Director in Nigeria, said that the planned capital investment reflects ExxonMobils confidence in Nigerias upstream potential and its dedication to playing a pivotal role in the countrys oil and gas production growth.

During a meeting with NUPRC chief executive Gbenga Komolafe this week, Harris also confirmed Exxons support for the regulators Project 1 Million Barrels initiative, which aims to increase Nigerias crude oil production to 2.4 million barrels per day (bpd) in the medium term.

Nigerian authorities have been clamping down on oil theft and have been supportive of an increase in oil and gas output in recent months.

The Nigerian government aims to boost the countrys oil production by 1 million bpd by December 2026, from the current 1.75 million bpd.

Oil theft and pipeline vandalism have long plagued Nigerias upstream oil and gas industry, driving majors out of the biggest OPEC producer in Africa and often resulting in force majeure at the key crude oil export terminals.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Indias federal government eased on Wednesday coal supply restrictions, allowing independent power producers to bid and procure coal supply at auctions for periods of between 1 and 25 years.

Under the new measure passed by the cabinet, producers can bid for coal for periods of up to 25 years at a premium above the notified price at auctions. The power plants will also have the flexibility to sell the electricity as per their choice.

The new provision is expected to incentivize domestic power generators to better plan new coal-fired capacity, according to Indias Ministry of Coal. The policy caters to the dynamic coal requirement of the Power Sector, the ministry noted.

India, just like China, is not giving up on coal to meet its surging power demand.

Indias annual installations of new coal-fired power capacity hit 4 gigawatts (GW) in 2024, flat on the five-year high of 2023 and the highest level since 2019, according to official government figures.

India plans to add as much as 90 GW of coal capacity by 2032 as it looks to meet its surging power demand with reliable baseload electricity.

India is the second-largest coal consumer of coal in the world and a sizeable producer as it seeks to satisfy more of its demand for the energy commodity with domestic production, as demand keeps growing at a healthy pace.

Despite booming renewable capacity additions, India continues to rely on coal to meet most of its power demand as authorities also look to avoid blackouts in cases of severe heat waves.

India and China will continue to drive global coal demand, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said at the end of 2024, expecting the worlds coal consumption to level off through 2027.

But last year, global coal demand surged to another record high, the IEA said in its Coal 2024 report with analysis and forecast to 2027.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Indias overnight missile strikes on Pakistani territory have sharply escalated tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, as the conflict broadens from military confrontation to strategic resource controlspecifically, water and energy infrastructure.

Overnight, India initiated "Operation Sindoor," executing coordinated missile strikes on nine locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, Al-Jazeera reported. The Indian Air Force strike lasted less than half an hour, targeting what it described as "terrorist infrastructure" linked to groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. Pakistan reported civilian casualties, including the deaths of at least three individuals, with a dozen others injured.

In retaliation, Pakistan claimed to have shot down five Indian jets and destroyed a brigade headquarters, escalating the conflict along the Line of Control. Both nations have since engaged in heavy artillery exchanges, with reports of civilian casualties on both sides. The international community has expressed concern over the rapid escalation and the potential for further destabilization in the region.

While the military exchanges command global attention, a parallel escalation is unfolding that may have longer-term consequences. As reported by Reuters, India has begun advancing stalled hydroelectric projects in the Kashmir region and has suspended its obligations under the Indus Waters Treatya critical water-sharing agreement in place since 1960.

As the conflict rapidly becomes about strategic resources, projects such as the Kishanganga and Ratle dams are being fast-tracked, potentially allowing India to divert or store water from rivers that flow downstream into Pakistan. This is not only a diplomatic provocationit poses a material threat to Pakistans agricultural and hydropower capacity, both of which are heavily reliant on Indus basin flows.

From an energy perspective, Indias investment in Kashmir hydropower may bolster domestic electricity generation and reduce reliance on imported fuels. But for Pakistan, already grappling with energy shortages, such moves raise the stakes dramatically.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Freeport LNG in Texas is set to take more feedgas on Wednesday in a sign that the U.S. liquefied natural gas export plant is gradually resuming service after an outage on Tuesday, per LSEG gas flow data cited by Reuters.

Freeport LNG, the company owning the plant, told the Texas environmental regulators on Tuesday that the interruption of power feed led to the shutdown of the three liquefaction trains at the export facility.

Over the years, Freeport LNG has suffered more outages than other U.S. export facilities because it uses only electric motors for the liquefaction compressors, instead of gas turbines. GE, which has provided the motors, says that with 675 MW total electric power installed, Freeport LNG is the worlds largest all-electric LNG plant built to date.

While all-electric driven liquefaction lowers emissions at the project, the plant is more susceptible to storms and other causes of power outages than other U.S. LNG export facilities.

Freeport LNG has three operating liquefaction units, or trains, that have a combined baseload capacity of 1.98 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) and peak capacity of 2.14 Bcf/d. The facility shipped its first LNG cargo in September 2019, and it was the fifth U.S. LNG export terminal to come online in the Lower 48 states.

Shutdowns at Freeport LNG shut in more than 10% of U.S. LNG export capacity, which drives European benchmark gas prices higher and U.S. domestic gas prices lower. Thats because with lower volumes of gas for export, more gas is available domestically in the United States.

Early on Wednesday, benchmark U.S. natural gas prices at the Henry Hub jumped by more than 5% to $3.640 per million British thermal units (MMBtu) as reports emerge that feedgas flows to Freeport LNG are recovering and as the early season heat is set to boost demand in the coming weeks.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
LINCOLN  Nebraska lawmakers cleared a major hurdle in balancing the next two-year state budget Tuesday, but filling a projected $262 million deficit will have to wait for another day.

The Nebraska Legislature advanced Legislative Bill 261 in a 37-6 vote, pushing it through the first of three rounds of floor debate. The measure is the first of two mainline budget bills that has to do with state expenses over the next biennium, starting on July 1, 2025, until June 30, 2027. The Legislature must pass these bills by May 15.

The current budget proposes $10.8 billion in state appropriations over the next two years, equating to a 1.5% spending increase. According to Appropriations Committee Chair Rob Clements of Elmwood, some of the biggest spending increases in the budget include a $67 million increase in special education funding, and a $61 million increase in the Child Health Insurance and Medicaid programs.

But the top concern on lawmakers minds is closing a projected deficit that currently stands at around $262 million. Clements said the Appropriations Committees proposal for filling the shortfall wont be voted on until the second round of floor debate, as the committee only approved the proposal late last week.

The projected deficit has been in flux all session. It started at $432 million, then dipped as low as $124 million before it shot back up to $396 million due to new economic forecasts. After the Legislature passed two revenue-generating bills last week, the shortfall dropped to its current status.

The committees latest proposal for filling the gap includes dozens of spending cuts to various state agencies and cash funds that would equate to roughly $133 million in savings. Additionally, they proposed transferring $132 million from the states cash reserve, bringing the rainy day fund from $821 million to about $690 million by the end of the biennium.

This proposal would leave Nebraska with no deficit and an ending cash balance of about $3 million, Clements said. He acknowledged in later questioning that much of the committees solution relies on one-time funds that wont help stabilize the budget in future biennia.

Even with the committees proposal on deck, several lawmakers suggested their own ways of filling the deficit. Sen. Jane Raybould of Lincoln said the current plan was not sustainable because it doesnt incorporate new revenues to offset the states expenses.

Critics have raised concerns for years about the lack of sustainability in state officials budgeting approach. In recent sessions, the Legislature has passed multiple tax relief proposals without ensuring there were adequate revenues to balance them, and has approved multiple big-budget projects that were bolstered in part by one-time federal dollars.

Theres going to be a lot of grief and opposition on any type of sales tax increase to our fellow Nebraskans when this problem was our own doing, Raybould said.

Several Republican lawmakers took issue with the claims that the Legislature is at fault for the deficit. Sen. Mike Jacobson of North Platte argued the deficit is largely due to changes to Nebraskas allocations in the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP), a formula used to decide the federal share of state Medicaid costs. Between the current fiscal year and the next two in the upcoming biennium, legislative fiscal analyst Keisha Patent said the FMAP revisions reduced Nebraskas revenues by about $290 million.

Sen. Mike Moser of Columbus further contended that the recent economic forecast also added $280 million to the shortfall. Though the forecasting board incorporates both state and federal factors in their predictions, several members emphasized their worry about chaos at the federal level when making their latest projections.

Raybould proposed several different strategies to fill the deficit, including delaying the construction of a new state prison two years, taking $100 million out of the funding for the Perkins County Canal, and LB 171  a bill from Sen. Tom Brandt of Plymouth that would freeze the states phased reductions of individual and corporate income tax rates, keeping it at 4.99%.

Additionally, conservative think-tank the Platte Institute proposed freezing two of the states fastest-growing spending programs, the Property Tax Credit Fund and the School Property Tax Relief Fund. The Platte Institute estimates the freeze would bring in $162 million, but both programs directly contribute to property tax relief. Jacobson said it was ludicrous to even consider the idea.

Sen. Brad von Gillern of the Omaha area, chair of the Legislatures Revenue Committee, called the Platte Institutes and Rayboulds suggestions easy buttons, meaning they were short-term solutions that would come with baggage and would be difficult or impossible to pass.

Several other senators opposed cutting funds for the Perkins County Canal, arguing that Nebraska must preserve its water resources while it still can. Sen. Christy Armendariz of Omaha called water the new gold and said taking money from the project would essentially be the state robbing itself.

Without water, you dont have much, Jacobson said.

Armendariz and others also opposed delaying the prison project. She said renovating the old state penitentiary would be more expensive than building a new facility, and von Gillern argued that as construction prices continue to rise, the project will only get more expensive.

But Sen. George Dungan of Lincoln called senators out for not seriously considering LB 171. Clements previously said he didnt have much interest in the bill, though on Tuesday he acknowledged the income tax reductions contributed to the shortfall. Dungan said it was out of touch for senators to oppose freezing corporate tax cuts, while also considering sales tax hikes.

Two other Brandt bills on the table this session, LB 169 and LB 170, would raise sales taxes on various luxury items, as well as pop and candy. Though the bills would increase revenues, Sen. Paul Strommen of Sidney noted neither bill needs to pass in order to balance the budget.

Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh of Omaha, a member of the Appropriations Committee, proposed an amendment that would have essentially replaced the committees budget proposal. As a vocal critic of the states budgeting approach all session, Cavanaugh said she wanted to back up her criticism by offering an alternate route lawmakers could take.

Her amendment would have siphoned existing funds for the canal, the prison project and existing property tax relief programs and put $452 million into the states school funding formula, which she estimated would lower the local effort rate from $1.05 to 75 cents, automatically lowering property taxes statewide. It would also restore funding for various services the committee proposal would cut, including the University of Nebraska System and local health departments.

Cavanaughs amendment failed on a 4-32 vote.

Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln questioned lawmakers long-term goals with the budget, noting that in the following budget cycle Nebraska is facing an even bigger deficit currently standing at about $383 million. She accused lawmakers of simply following Gov. Jim Pillens orders, and said she wouldnt handle her own family budget this way.

This budget is cobbled together with baling wire and bubble gum, Conrad said. It limps us along through this biennium with no clear plan for the future, and no answers as to what this means for our states leading institutions like the university.
By Taxpayers Association of Oregon

OregonWatchdog.com

On May 5th, KGW 8 reported on a shocking hit-and-run where a blue Kia Carnival slammed into a motorcyclist, throwing the rider off his bike and into the side lanes. Beaverton police reported that in the early morning on Highway 26, between Highway 217 and Cedar Hills Boulevard, the cause of the incident was due to road rage between the driver of the Kai and the motorcyclist. The rider named Correy, age 21, after being side-swiped by the Kai, was thrown over 200 feet. Correy was wearing a helmet, but still suffered severe injuries and is in the hospital seeking medical attention. The Kai driver is described as a white man, about 30-40 years old, with a black beard, and police are looking for information about the Kai driver. Anyone with information about this incident or the suspects whereabouts is asked to contact Officer Nick Coplin at 971-253-9710, or through the non-emergency line at 503-629-0111.


By Taxpayers Association of Oregon

OregonWatchdog.com

Two taxes in one week!

That is right, two different taxes have been proposed this week.

#1 Uber tax: Portland Mayor Keith Wilson just announced a doubling of their City ride-share tax. It will increase from 65-cents to $1.30. For those driving their own car  you will not be spared from the pain. The Mayor has a 25% increase in parking meters in hopes of raising an extra $5 million. Make no mistake, Portland is using their Uber tax as a cash cow and it may soon be coming to your city.

#2. $122 million Google tax. The Oregon Senate Rules Panel just voted out Senate Bill 686 to the Senate Floor for a vote. SB 686 would effectively tax Google and Facebook a whopping $122 million dollars. The tax funds would go to fund private newspaper companies in Oregon which is highly unconstitutional. This will forever change the face of journalism in Oregon if most news outlets will be getting tax funds from the government. This is also a massive expansion of government power to tax private companies to transfer wealth to other private companies.

CALL YOUR STATE SENATOR TO STOP SB 686  the $122 million Google/Facebook tax

#1. Call the toll-free Capitol Switchboard at 1-800-332-2313

#2. Ask to be connected to your State Senator. If you do not know who your lawmaker is you can ask the Capitol operator to help you or you can go to the Legislature webpage and click Find your Legislature tab as seen below.

#3. Tell your Senator to reject SB 686 the $122 Million tax on Google and Facebook to fund private newspapers in Oregon.

For those who live in Portland

If you live in Portland and oppose the Uber tax, please stop this Rideshare Tax by calling your Portland City Councilors.

Go to the Portland City homepage to see your councilors or go here to find out who represents you. Tell Portland City Council to reject doubling the Rideshare tax and to reject spiking parking meter fees by 25%.
Last Tuesday, April 29, the Wall Street Journal carried a lengthy article headlined as Former Federal Employees Left Waiting. The essence of the article is that the tens of thousands of federal workers terminated in the wake of President Donald Trumps efficiency review (the Department of Government Efficiency  DOGE) are having a difficult time finding new employment:

State and local governments rolled out the red carpet to federal workers who were laid off en masse this year. But months after losing their jobs, many federal applicants are still waiting to get through the door.

The reason for the difficulty may be encapsulated by the following comment:

Ive not gotten one single call from anyone yet, said Aeron Miller, 47 years old, who has applied for county and state jobs in Maryland. Miller was in the Air Force for several years, then worked in civilian jobs for the federal government for about 20 years. She took a buyout in February rather than returning to the office, which would have meant a commute of up to two hours.

The over riding element in this article is that a significantly large number of those who have lost their jobs in the federal government are restricting their search for new employment to other levels of state and local governments. The article even supplies a reason, although it a demonstrably superficial and false reason:

State and local governments have long struggled to fill open jobs, hobbled by low pay and slow hiring processes . It tends to get easier for them when conditions elsewhere worsen. Applications with states, cities and counties have jumped since 2023, as private-sector hiring for white-collar workers cooled, according to data from Neogov, which runs the jobs site Governmentjobs.com. (Emphasis supplied)

While the wages paid to public employees may be marginally lower than their private sector equivalents, the benefit packages more than make up for the initial disparity. Healthcare is provided without employee participation. Retirement benefits are generous and guaranteed by taxpayers. And those benefits vest earlier than in the private sector allowing public employees to double and even triple tip on government pensions. A summary of a 2024 comparison by the Congressional Budget Office noted:

Compared with private-sector employees, the average compensation costs for federal employees in 2022 were greater among workers whose education culminated in a bachelors degree or less, but lower among workers with more education.

The historic excuse that public employees traded low wages for job security is no longer true  I mean the part about low wages. When looking at the accompany charts it demonstrates that for workers with less than a university bachelors degrees that the compensation package for public employees is far more generous than private sector employees. Given that only about one fourth of the workforce has a bachelors degree or more, that would suggest that the baloney about pay disparity is just that  baloney. Those with bachelors degrees in both public and private employment are about equal when you compare both compensation and benefits. So what is the real reason that terminated federal employees are limiting their search to other governmental jobs?

What the studies cannot and did not measure is the very disparate nature of the employment. In the public sector there is little or no risk of ever losing your employment. Compensation increases are based on longevity on the job without regard to performance and there is no risk that the public employer will ever go out of business  rather it will simply raise taxes. In the private sector, everything is tied to the productivity of the underlying business. In most private sector businesses there are measurable goals, documented performance standards and annual reviews. If the business fails to perform, the business fails and both the employees and the owners are financially punished.

While there is greater risk in private sector employment there is also greater opportunity for advancement although that is waning. In the private sector, there still is the opportunity to rise to the executive ranks. But now, in the public sector we are seeing more and more high political officials  including elected officials  who have spent their entire adult lives working for various levels of local, state and federal governments. If you dont believe me look at the resumes of Democrat officials in your state. It has become the public employees path to executive companesaton.

The article also fails to recognize that the primary funding sources for Democrat politicians are the various public employees unions such as the American Federation of Teachers, the National Education Association, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, the Service Employees International Union, etc. In America today there are more public employee unions members that there are union members in the public sector. The fact that they are the principle financing resources for politicians is the reason that they enjoy such ironclad job security.

As the Department of Government Efficiency proceeds with its goal of reducing the size of government, eliminating waste, fraud and corruption and establishing a merit based employment system. Its primary foes will be the public employee unions who benefit enormously from the status quo despite the damage it is causing taxpayers and private enterprise.

Maybe it is time to implement term limits for public employees  at least those in a supervisory level or above. As it stands right now we are creating a generational attitude that only government protected employment is worth pursuing.


By Lars Larson

NW and national radio host,

The Northwest Nonsense

More proof arrived this week of the unrepentant corruption in Oregon government.

Shemia Fagan just got her lawyer license back.

Let me remind you of the sleazy history of this shyster.

The democrat ran for Secretary of State and knew what the job paid.

But she wanted a more lavish lifestyle, so she started taking 10-thousand bucks a month from the marijuana merchants of La Mota.

In exchange, the weed dealers bought their own personal advocate in Fagan with state regulators.

Fagan was peddling influence and getting away with it.

Governor Tina Kotek knew about Fagans fraud but didnt say a word till it went public.

Kotek, herself, got elected with an illegal campaign donation of half a million dollars stolen from cryptocurrency investors and she escaped any punishment.

Fagan resigned in disgrace two years and four days ago.

State prosecutors did nothing about her official misconduct.

Dan Rayfield, the new AGnothing! Hes a deceitful democrat too.

The Oregon State Bar decides who can and cant be a lawyer.

It brags on its website about serving the public interest and promoting respect for the law..

Bull Feathers!

This week, the Bar restored Shemia Fagans status as a lawyer in good standing.


Rep. Dwayne Yunker: Oregon Democrats Turned State into Haven for Fentanyl Kingpin

By Oregon State Representative Dwayne Yunker,

Salem, OR  Representative Dwayne Yunker (R-Grants Pass) issued a blistering statement after news broke that Alberto Salazar Amaya, the ringleader behind the largest fentanyl seizure in U.S. history, was living in Salem, Oregon.

The fact that this cartel leader was hiding in our state capital is no accident, its the direct result of Oregon Democrats sanctuary state policies, said Representative Yunker. Theyve turned Oregon into a haven for drug traffickers, foreign terrorist organizations, and organized crime, while everyday Oregonians pay the price.

Under Governor Tina Kotek and a Democrat-controlled legislature, Oregon has decriminalized hard drugs, embraced sanctuary protections for illegal immigrants, and gutted public safety enforcement. These failed policies have made Oregon ground zero for the fentanyl epidemic, and a magnet for international criminal operations.

This isnt just a drug problem. Its a national security crisis, Representative Yunker said. Foreign-backed criminal networks are exploiting Oregons weak laws, and our communities are suffering. Its time to stop pretending this is normal.

Representative Yunker is calling for:

 A full, bipartisan investigation into how Salazar Amaya operated in Oregon

Immediate repeal of Oregons sanctuary state law

 A rollback of soft-on-crime policies that shield traffickers and criminal enterprises

 New legislation to fortify state cooperation with federal immigration and drug enforcement

Oregonians deserve a state that protects its citizens, not one that shelters the enemies of public safety, said Representative Yunker. The time to act is now.
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:

Camera trapping image during the study. Credit: Department of Wildlife Protection, UT Ladakh, CC-BY 4.0 (creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

Most of India's snow leopard population live in a remote region in the north of the country, where they co-exist alongside rural communities, according to a study published in PLOS One by Pankaj Raina at Union Territory of Ladakh's Department of Wildlife Protection, and colleagues.

To effectively conserve wild carnivores, researchers need accurate data on their population size and distribution. However, gathering this data has proved particularly challenging for snow leopards (Panthera uncia) because of their shy nature and preference for remote, rugged terrain.

Researchers assessed the population size and distribution of snow leopards across a 59,000 km2 landscape in India's Ladakh territory, in the north of the country.

First, they performed an intensive survey of the region for evidence of snow leopards, such as footprints, feces and scratch marks. They also assessed the presence of other large carnivores, such as brown bears and lynx, as well as wild herbivores and livestock. Next, they set up 956 camera traps, covering over 8,500 km2 in areas occupied by snow leopards, to allow them to generate accurate estimates of their populations across the territory.

They analyzed the photos using artificial intelligence to identify individual snow leopards based on the distinctive pattern of markings on their foreheads.

The researchers estimated that Ladakh is home to 477 snow leopards, representing 68% of India's total population. The density of snow leopards varied between one and three individuals per 100 km2, and they found that Hemis National Park has the highest density of snow leopards recorded globally.

They report that 61% of snow leopards in Ladakh co-exist alongside human populations. Resource-rich grasslands with a moderate climate and complex terrain tended to be home to a higher number of snow leopards, which is likely due to a greater availability of prey and less human disturbance.

The study is the most comprehensive population survey of snow leopards to date. The methodology could be used for regular monitoring of these elusive big cats across their global range. The study also generated a national photo library of snow leopards that could help conservationists to monitor poaching and trafficking of animal parts.

The authors say that the wide distribution and high population density of snow leopards in Ladakh is due to a combination of factors, including abundant prey, rugged and remote landscapes, low human population density, and a culture of deep respect for wildlife among local communities.

The authors add, "The deep-rooted reverence for wildlife among Ladakh's communities, combined with the economic benefits from snow leopard tourism and conflict management strategies, helps sustain some of the world's highest snow leopard densitiesa model that could be adapted and upscaled across the species' range."

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

"To photograph snow leopards' foreheads, we had to make them pose in front of our cameras. This was done by spraying a small amount of perfume just below the cameras that were deployed near their favored scent-marking rocks on the high ridge tops. The curious leopards lower their heads to smell the novel smell and we have our prized photos!"

"Fingerprinting snow leopards: A special pattern recognition software that fits a three-dimensional model on the snow leopard's forehead image extracts the spot patterns and stores them in a database for comparing it with other snow leopard photographs, and comes up with close matches.

"This reduced our work many-fold and improved the accuracy of correct individual identification, which is crucial for population estimation using statistical models."

More information: Raina P, et al. Comprehensive assessment of snow leopard distribution and population in the Indian Trans-Himalaya, Ladakh: Standardizing methods for evidence-based conservation, PLOS One (2025). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0322136 Journal information: PLoS ONE
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:

Chris Pudney operating the drug-detection device developed at the University of Bath. Credit: University of Bath

A portable device that can instantly detect dangerous street drugs at extremely low concentrations has been developed at the University of Bath in the UK.

The device, which is being trialed by drugchecking services in the UK, Norway and New Zealand, can identify substances such as benzodiazepines and synthetic opioids that are difficult to detect with existing mobile technologies and are major contributors to drug overdoses globally.

The device, which is similar to an ultraviolet spectrometer, will allow drugs to be tested cheaply and at volume. Its onthespot analysis reveals both the contents of a substance and the concentration of each ingredient. The technology is described in Analytical Chemistry.

Biochemist Professor Chris Pudneywho leads the team that developed the technology from the Department of Life Sciences at Bathsays the potential lifesaving benefits of this invention are considerable. By using the device to reveal the precise composition of an illicit substance, the risks associated with taking unknown or adulterated drugs can be reduced significantly.

Professor Pudney envisions the new machine being deployed in areas where illicit drugs are commonly used, such as at clubs and festivals, as well as in services that provide support and treatment for dependentdrug users.

Testing times

Detecting substances at low concentrations is more challenging than identifying larger quantities of highly pure substances. The equipment currently available for this task often requires extensive training and can only be operated by chemists.

By contrast, the device invented by Professor Pudney can be operated by a nonexpert, yielding results with the simple press of a button, and can detect drugs at extremely low concentrations. This allows it to determine the potency of a formulation and identify any contamination with undeclared substances.

Many 'red flag' substances, including synthetic opioids such as nitazenes and fentanyl, are toxic even in minute quantities, and being able to detect them is critical to saving lives.

Professor Pudney said, "Whatever we're doing at the moment to prevent deaths from drug misuse isn't working, so we need a new kind of service that can be where it's neededcheaply, easily and anywhere.

"Our device would support community harm reduction. Telling people not to take drugs doesn't work, so different strategies are needed. By letting people know exactly what's in a drug and how strong it is, we can empower them to make safer decisions about whether or not to take it, or to use it in a safer way."

Drug adulteration

Globally, there is a growing problem of people unknowingly taking street drugs that have been mixed with undeclared substances. For instance, illicit pills containing benzodiazepines (which can produce feelings of euphoria, relaxation and calmness in the user) can be contaminated with synthetic opioids, turning them into ultrapotent mixtures that dramatically increase the risk of adverse effects and fatal overdoses.

The rise of potent synthetic drugs has made the landscape of drug use particularly dangerous, essentially presenting people who believe they are taking a known dosage of a known drug with a 'Russian roulette' of risk.

Professor Pudney said, "Now, more than ever, there are serious health risks associated with taking all drugs. People may think they have bought something relatively unharmfulperhaps a substance they know wellbut the drug they have may in fact be contaminated with a far more dangerous and more addictive substance that could endanger their lives.

"This is why drug checking is so important and so needed. We need simple, instant detection that anyone in a drug and alcohol service can use to support their clients."

Deaths in England and Wales from drug poisoning have increased year on year, rising from 4,359 in 2018 to 4,907 in 2023 (these figures include both illicit drug use and prescription drug misuse).

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

Local and international trials

The new technologycurrently a prototypeis being trialed by drug services both in the UK and internationally.

Devon & Cornwall Police, UK

A device acquired by Devon & Cornwall Police (UK) in June 2024 has allowed the force to fasttrack suspicious substances linked to nearfatal and fatal overdoses. This lets them provide realtime drug warnings to drug treatment services in the area, rather than waiting for several months for results from forensic drugdetection service providers.

Nick Burnett, drug expert witness for Devon & Cornwall Police, said, "A prime example of this was testing of some oxycodone tablets in 2024 following a death. The tablets were found to contain a nitazene. We were able to put out a drug warning within 36 hours of that death occurring."

He added that the technology had improved the police's working relationship with its drug treatment services, especially in relation to information sharing and, where necessary, the issuing of drug warnings.

The Loop, UK

Unlike in New Zealand, drug checking services in the UK require a Home Office license for the possession of controlled drugs to operate legally. To date, The Loop Drug Checking Service is the only communitybased drugchecking service in the UK that has been granted a license. It has been operating in Bristol since 2024, and uses, alongside other analytical technologies, Professor Pudney's device.

Katy Porter, CEO of The Loop said, "We have been pleased to work alongside the team at the University of Bath to explore the use and potential of the device in drug checking services and for the purpose of reducing drugrelated harms. We share the concerns regarding the changing drug market in the UK and are working together to ensure drug checking is accessible and available to more people."

Drugchecking service, New Zealand

For two weeks last year, hundreds of drug samples were tested in New Zealand using Professor Pudney's new device as part of an initiative involving the country's three frontline drugchecking services: the Needle Exchange Program, the New Zealand Drug Foundation and KnowYourStuffNZ. New Zealand is one of few countries in the world where drugchecking services are explicitly legal.

KnowYourStuffNZ deputy manager Dr. Jez Weston said, "The spectrometers that we use are currently the best tech for mobile drug analysis, but science moves ever on. The University of Bath's new technology could help us help our clients with better and faster analysis of their samples."

Drugchecking service, Norway

The device is also being trialed by the Association for Safer Drug Policies (ASDP) in Norway. Norway is another country that operates communitybased drug checking.

Dagfinn Hessen Paust, chief scientific officer at the ASDPa leading advocate for harm prevention and evidencebased drug policies in Norway and the Nordics, said, "We use a number of different technologies to check drugs, mostly using infrared spectrometry, which is great for most use cases but not for testing benzodiazepines and very potent, very dangerous opioids.

"These substancesunlike, say, MDMAare found in very low concentrations in the tablets people consume and cannot be picked up by established devices.

"The new device from Bath is helping us fill this gapit's very exciting for us to be trialing this new technology."

Shining light

The new technology from Bath works through a combination of fluorescence and reflectance spectroscopies.

Fluorescence is a technique that involves shining light on a substance and measuring the light that the substance emits in response. Different substances emit light in unique ways, which makes it possible to identify them.

Reflectance Spectroscopy is a technique that measures the light bouncing off a substance. The way light is reflected provides information about the substance's properties.

The device is trained using a deeplearning algorithm, meaning it is exposed to a library of Nanoparticle Spectroscopy (NPS) light patterns from which it learns to make accurate identifications.

Professor Pudney said, "Our aim is for this device to support drugchecking services, as a means to decrease the harm caused by drugs across different groups. The landscape of drug use is changing rapidly and we hope this tool can fill some of the gaps that are emerging."

More information: A field-portable technology for illicit drug discrimination via deep learning of hybridized reflectance/fluorescence spectro-scopic fingerprints, Analytical Chemistry (2025). DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c05247 Journal information: Analytical Chemistry
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: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

In research published in Advanced Science, investigators describe their ability to reconstruct 3D facial images from DNA data, which could have important applications in forensic investigations of crime scenes.

Their model, called Difface, applies single DNA nucleotide differences to 3D facial point clouds, or sets of data points that represent the exterior surface of a face.

When tested on a Han Chinese database with 9,674 paired DNA differences and 3D facial images, Difface demonstrated excellent performance in DNA-to-3D image alignment and reconstruction. Also, including additional information such as age, sex, and body mass index in Difface further improved the quality of reconstructed facial 3D images.

"Amazingly, Difface could generate 3D facial images of individuals solely from their DNA data, projecting their appearance at various future ages," said cocorresponding author Luonan Chen, Ph.D., of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

More information: De novo reconstruction of 3D human facial images from DNA sequence, Advanced Science (2025). DOI: 10.1002/advs.202414507 Journal information: Advanced Science

Provided by Wiley
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: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Teenage pregnancy rates remain high across many parts of the developing world: In Africa, on average, about one in ten girls between the ages of 15 and 19 has already given birth. These early pregnancies often come with serious consequences for young mothers and their children. They are linked to lower education levels, poorer health outcomes, and reduced economic opportunities.

Scientists, development agencies and NGOs have long heralded education as a powerful tool to reduce early childbearing. Education may directly influence women's reproductive behavior, but it can also improve their employment and income-generating opportunities, leading them to postpone pregnancy.

But does access to basic education for young girls result in such successes uniformly across population groups?

We are economists who conducted a study to explore the effect of primary school education on fertility and its related outcomes in Burundi. A bold education reform took place in that country in 2005: the government abolished formal school fees for primary education. As a result, many children who had been excluded from school by cost were able to get a basic education.

The free primary education policy displays a natural experiment for researchers interested in the effects of education. Because the reform applied only to children young enough to be in school, we could compare girls who were eligible for free schooling with those who were just too old to be eligible (but similar in other ways). This allowed us to track the policy's direct and causal effects.

Indeed, we see that Burundi's free primary education policy increased educational attainment of women by 1.22 years on average. Our findings also provide new, robust evidence that education can reduce downstream effects, as we see teenage childbearing reducing by as much as 6.9 percentage points. In other words, while about 37% of teenage women who did not benefit from free primary education had given birth before the age of 20, only 30% of those eligible for free primary education had done so.

Importantly, and new in our findings, education conferred the greatest benefit to girls from the poorest segment of society. Our study thereby underscores an important lesson for policymakers: education policies can be highly effective, but not necessarily for everyone in the same way.

A natural experiment in Burundi

We used nationally representative data from Burundi's Demographic and Health Surveys to establish the effects of education. We compared women born between 1987 and 1991 to those born between 1992 and 1996aged 14-18 and 9-13 respectively when the free school policy took effect. We applied modern econometric techniques to identify the increase in years of schooling induced by the policy. We then examined the effect of this increase in schooling on girls' outcomes, including teenage pregnancy, literacy, and the likelihood of working for cash income, among other outcomes.

The results were striking. Girls who had been young enough to benefit from free schooling gained, on average, 1.22 more years of education thanks to the program. That corresponds to a 34% increase in the years of education compared to similar women who missed out on the policy. Crucially, this increase occurred across the boardboth poor and wealthier women gained more education.

But there was a twist: only young women from poor backgrounds seemed to reap broader benefits from that extra schooling.

For girls from very low-income households, one additional year of schooling reduced the likelihood of becoming a teenage mother by nearly 7 percentage points.

It also decreased their desired number of children and boosted their literacy and chances of working for a cash income outside their own home. These are all powerful indicators of women gaining autonomy and making more informed reproductive choices.

While girls from wealthier households experienced an increase in education too, this additional schooling showed no measurable effect on fertility, literacy, or employment outcomes for them. Thus, we did not find any statistically significant impact of increased schooling for these girls.

In other words, the free primary education program in Burundi increased the number of years of education for girls in general but the downstream effects of that education appear to have materialized only for the very poor.

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

Why does household wealth matter?

Why would women from the relatively wealthier families not benefit equally from more education?

One reason could be that somewhat wealthier households had already ensured higher levels of education for their daughters, even before school fees were abolished in Burundi. The education reform thus made less of a difference in their lives. Very poor families, on the other hand, were far more likely to be constrained by the costs of primary education. When that barrier was removed, their daughters could finally access schooling, and this had transformative effects also for sexual and reproductive health.

For the most disadvantaged, education is more likely to open up new economic opportunities. We found that policy-induced education increased their likelihood of working outside of their own household for a cash income, which raises the opportunity cost of early childbearing. The classic economic theory by Nobel prize laureate Gary Becker and Jacob Mincer suggests that when women have better employment prospects, they are more likely to postpone childbirth. And they invest more in their children but tend to have fewer of them. This is precisely what we observed in our data.

Education also seems to empower women by increasing their knowledge and capacity to access information. We found that literacy rates among poor women rose significantly with each added year of schooling. Another prominent theory in the literature on education is that educated women are more likely to understand and use contraception, make informed reproductive decisions, and challenge traditional gender norms.

Rethinking one-size-fits-all policies

Our study underscores an important lesson for policymakers: education policies can be highly effective, but not necessarily for everyone in the same way.

When evaluating the success of reforms like free primary education, we must go beyond average effects. Aggregated data can mask substantial differences between population groups. If we had only looked at average outcomes, we might have concluded that free schooling had little effect on teenage childbearing. But by disaggregating our data by household wealth, we see a different and far more hopeful picture. Free schooling has powerful effectsif we know where to look.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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: Journal of Environmental Psychology (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvp.2025.102609

A sweeping 26-country study reveals a consistent gap in trust toward climate scientists based on political ideology, with right-leaning individuals reporting lower trust than their left-leaning counterparts. The divide is especially stark in wealthier democracies and English-speaking nations, according to the research.

The work is published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology. The findings expand on past studies focused primarily on Western, English-speaking contexts.

"While climate scientists currently maintain fairly high levels of public trustranging from 58% in North America to 84% in South Asiathat trust is not held evenly across all groups," says senior author Kai Ruggeri, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Health Policy and Management at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health.

"The political divide in trust isn't inevitable. In fact, the popularity of most climate policies is dramatically underrated, even across that divide. To have a better balance, we must engage all political perspectives and foster trust that transcends ideology."

Trust in climate scientists is central to effective policies being implemented successfully because public support for climate policies is known to be linked to the level of trust in climate scientists. Furthermore, the links between fossil fuel emissions, warming temperatures, and how they are changing our climate, through frequent extreme weather events, as one example, often cannot be understood through direct experience.

Analyzing survey data from 10,641 participants across 26 nations, researchers found political ideology significantly influences trust in climate scientistswith a few exceptions. While right-leaning individuals showed lower trust in 22 countries, the pattern reversed in China and Indonesia, where left-leaning respondents were more skeptical. In Egypt and Georgia, political views made no difference, suggesting climate change remains less politicized in these regions. On average, participants identified as politically centrist.

Development, democracy, and emissions

The link between political views and distrust of climate scientists was strongest in wealthier, more democratic countries with high levels of greenhouse gas emissions. Researchers call this the "post-industrial paradox"as nations develop, some people may see science as less essential to progress, making them more skeptical.

In democracies, political divides can deepen this distrust. High-emitting countries also face well-funded misinformation campaigns, often from fossil fuel interests, that undermine trust in climate science.

Does education breed distrust?

The researchers report some preliminary evidence that the link between political ideology and distrust of climate scientists may be slightly stronger among more educated individuals versus those with less education.

While the difference is small, higher education may enable people to selectively interpret scientific information through an ideological lenspotentially deepening partisan divides on climate issues.

A few limitations

Participants were mostly young, and there was an overrepresentation of educated women compared to the general population, so the researchers say their findings might not apply to everyone.

They also used simple yes/no-style questions about trust and political views, which can't capture all the complexities of these topics. They note that it is important to distinguish between trusting climate science and trusting climate scientists, as people may feel differently about each. Future research could explore these nuances in more depth.

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

Implications for communications

The study highlights the need for climate communication strategies that address ideological divides. To increase trust among right-leaning audiences, researchers recommend emphasizing climate change's immediate impacts rather than distant future consequences and partnering with trusted local figuresfrom community leaders to political representativeswho can authentically convey scientific consensus. These approaches must be carefully adapted to national contexts, given how the politics of climate trust vary across borders.

"Failing to consider the perspectives of entire populations will inevitably create roadblocks for evidence-based policies. Closing this gap requires meeting people where they are, through messengers and messages that resonate across ideological lines," says Ruggeri. "What is especially unique about this study is that it was led entirely by students and early career researchers, who took the initiative to make creative use of data on an extremely important topic."

More information: Amanda Remso et al, Trust in Climate Scientists is Associated with Political Ideology: A 26-Country Analysis, Journal of Environmental Psychology (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvp.2025.102609
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:

This photo captures the installation of the test solar panels for NASA's Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, which took place in March. One panel is lifted in the center of the frame on its way to being attached to the outer barrel assembly at right. The deployable aperture cover is stowed on the front of the outer barrel assembly, and the other half of the observatorythe spacecraft and integrated payload assembly, which consists of the telescope, instrument carrier, and two instrumentsappears at the left of the photo. Credit: NASA/Jolearra Tshiteya

A major part of NASA's nearly complete Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope just passed a lengthy thermal test to ensure it will function properly in the space environment.

"This milestone tees us up to attach the flight solar array sun shield to the outer barrel assembly and deployable aperture cover, which we'll begin this month," said Jack Marshall, who leads integration and testing for these elements at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. "Then we'll complete the remaining environmental tests for the flight assembly before moving on to connect Roman's two major assemblies and run the full observatory through testing, and then we'll be ready to launch."

Prior to this thermal testing, technicians integrated Roman's deployable aperture cover, a visor-like sunshade, into the outer barrel assembly, which will house the telescope and instruments, in January, then added test solar panels in March. They moved this whole structure into the Space Environment Simulator test chamber at NASA Goddard in April.

There, it was subjected to the hot and cold temperatures it will experience in space. Next, technicians will join Roman's flight solar panels to the outer barrel assembly and sunshade. Then the structure will undergo a suite of assessments, including a shake test to ensure it can withstand the vibrations experienced during launch.

This infographic shows the two major subsystems that make up NASA's Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope. The subsystems are each undergoing testing prior to being joined together this fall. Credit: NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center

Meanwhile, Roman's other major portionthe spacecraft and integrated payload assembly, which consists of the telescope, instrument carrier, and two instrumentswill undergo its own shake test, along with additional assessments. Technicians will install the lower instrument sun shade and put this half of the observatory through a thermal vacuum test in the Space Environment Simulator.

"The test verifies the instruments will remain at stable operating temperatures even while the sun bakes one side of the observatory and the other is exposed to freezing conditionsall in a vacuum, where heat doesn't flow as readily as it does through air," said Jeremy Perkins, an astrophysicist serving as Roman's observatory integration and test scientist at NASA Goddard. Keeping the instrument temperatures stable ensures their readings will be precise and reliable.

Technicians are on track to connect Roman's two major parts in November, resulting in a complete observatory by the end of the year. Following final tests, Roman is expected to ship to the launch site at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida for launch preparations in summer 2026. Roman remains on schedule for launch by May 2027, with the team aiming for launch as early as fall 2026.
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:

Intricate architecture of a neuronal network. The image shows a 3D rendering of example cells from the mouse primary somatosensory cortexa brain region that processes touch and body position sensationsproduced with LICONN. Credit: Tavakoli, Lyudchik et al./Nature

Our brain is a complex organ. Billions of nerve cells are wired in an intricate network, constantly processing signals, enabling us to recall memories or to move our bodies.

Making sense of this complicated network requires a precise look into how these nerve cells are arranged and connected. "LICONN," a new microscopy method developed by scientists at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) and Google Research, now helps piece together this puzzle.

Light microscopes have been evolving for centuries. Scientists use light microscopy toliterally and figurativelyilluminate the most intricate biological structures. However, unraveling the complex details and architecture of the brain remains a seemingly impossible challenge, considering its billions of densely packed neurons, each linked to other cells via thousands of synapses.

A new microscopy pipeline called "LICONN" (light-microscopy-based connectomics), developed at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), now offers a breakthrough.

LICONN is the first technology beyond electron microscopy capable of reconstructing brain tissue with all the synaptic connections between neurons. It also opens up the possibility of visualizing complex molecular machinery alongside the structure of neurons, all while utilizing standard light microscopes for measurements.

This new technique was developed by Mojtaba R. Tavakoli, Julia Lyudchik, Johann Danzl, and their colleagues from the High-Resolution Optical Imaging for Biology research group at ISTA. They collaborated with the Novarino group at ISTA and Michal Januszewski and Viren Jain from Google Research.

The method is now published in Nature.

Manual reconstruction of 658 neuronal structures, revealing their complex shapes and interwoven arrangement. Credit: Tavakoli, Lyudchik et al./Nature

New possibilities with LICONN

Mojtaba R. Tavakoli opens a curtain, revealing a light microscope with endless wires connecting the optical instrument to a computer. The screen's lights shine brightglooming shades of green and pink illuminate the almost pitch-black room.

"That's the hippocampusa brain region responsible for memory formation," says Tavakoli and points to the screen. "The fluorescent dots you see are molecules involved in synaptic transmission." The ISTA graduate moves the frame and adjusts the settings.

LICONN is the Danzl group's newest microscopy technique. It acts like a meticulous puzzle solver, assembling the intricate brain networks by piecing together the finest neuronal processes and correctly linking each synaptic connection to its respective neuron.

"Up to now, no light microscopy technique could do that," says Johann Danzl, a trained medical doctor and physicist, now professor at ISTA. "It was a longstanding goal of our group to build such a pipeline for reconstructing brain tissue. And LICONN can do this while placing specific molecules into the context of the structural reconstruction."

What stands out is that the image acquisition is done on a standard off-the-shelf microscope, which is very fast and offers multicolor capability.

The technique can be reproduced anywhere in the world, as scientists do not require high-end, expensive equipment that would be needed for current approaches for brain tissue reconstruction. To obtain this level of detail, the resolution has to be extraordinarily high, around a few tens of nanometers, 10,000 times smaller than the width of a human hair. But how to accomplish that? Expertise in chemistry comes in handy.

Deep learning techniques from Google Research predicting neuronal structures and their positions within the brain tissue. Credit: Tavakoli, Lyudchik et al./Nature

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

Zooming with a gel

For LICONN, the team made use of the chemical and physical properties of hydrogel, a three-dimensional polymer network. Hydrogel has similar characteristics to baby diapers: it can take up water and swell, but does so in a highly controlled manner.

The brain tissue of interest is embedded in this hydrogel. "Cellular components are linked to the hydrogel, meaning the cells' fine ultrastructure is imprinted onto the gel and preserved for microscopy," explains Danzl. Before imaging, the structures are expanded by adding water to the material.

As a result, the gel elongates in size in every direction but maintains the relative spatial arrangements of the tissue's structures with extremely high fidelity.

For comparison, traditional light microscopes are classically limited in their resolving power to around 250300 nanometers. While this is adequate to visualize larger cellular structures, it is insufficient to reconstruct the densely packed brain tissue.

"The hydrogel expansion pulls features of the brain tissue so far apart that we can resolve them with a standard light microscope. This method enhances the effective resolution by 16 times, achieving a resolution better than 20 nm," Tavakoli explains.

Research at the intersection of disciplines

Neuroscience and chemistry were not the only fields that found their way into this project. Methods from computer science played a crucial part in the pipeline's development. This is because capturing microscopic images results in the collection of numerous data points. As such, the intricacy of the datasets reflects the brain's complexity.

Illuminating the dark. Tavakoli, Lyudchik, and Danzl discuss a close-up image of the hippocampusa brain region responsible for memory formation and spatial navigationin the microscopy room at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA). Credit: ISTA

Thus, manually interpreting and reconstructing all the neuronal structures on a sizable scale would be far too laborious. Therefore, Google Research's deep-learning techniques were trained to segment the individual cells in the tissue.

"Automating the identification of neurons and their elaborate structures on a wider scale using artificial intelligence made the daunting task of reconstructing all the cellular components practically tractable," explains Viren Jain from Google Research. "The ability to concomitantly visualize specific molecules adds a new quality of information."

Julia Lyudchik, a Ph.D. student and computer scientist in the Danzl group, played an instrumental role in interpreting the complex datasets.

"Thanks to the exceptionally high resolution of the data, it was possible to automatically detect the synaptic connections between neurons and to transform raw brain imaging data into detailed connectivity maps. This is a complex image processing challenge," Lyudchik explains.

"In addition, the methods had to be both efficient and scalable, given that even a small piece of brain tissue can contain tens of thousands of synaptic connections."

LICONN makes it possible to map the location of specific molecules onto neuronal reconstructions, such as those involved in the transmission of signals between neurons at synapses. Lyudchik's artistic vein helped her create stunning 3D renderings of the brain network, as visualizations are powerful tools to make complex scientific data more accessible and interpretable.

Unlocking new details in the brain's architecture

By following this comprehensive pipeline, scientists can meticulously reconstruct brain tissue and visualize neuronal connections and networks.

The interplay between experimentation and analysis across disciplinesfrom imaging and experimentation at ISTA to Google Research's application of advanced deep learning technologies and the computational analysis at ISTAresults in 3D visualizations of the brain's architecture at a new level of complexity.

"LICONN brings us a step closer to assembling the puzzle pieces of the mammalian brain and better understanding its functioning both in health and disease," Danzl concludes.

More information: Light-microscopy based dense connectomic reconstruction of mammalian brain tissue, Nature (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-08985-1. www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08985-1 Journal information: Nature
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: CC0 Public Domain

Around the world, artificial intelligence and Automated Decision-Making (ADM) tools are playing increasingly significant roles in handling immigration and homeland security data.

Migration experts in Australia weighing up the opportunities and risks of such technologies warn that more transparency, monitoring and regulation are required to oversee the use of these tools.

"With many governments deploying these tools, we have seen the integration of these technologies into many sectors, which has dramatically reshaped the landscape of immigration enforcement. This leads to the need for responsible use and regulation," says Flinders University Associate Professor Sanzhuan Guo, one of the legal experts in a new article published in the Griffith Law Review.

The article argues that while ADM systems can enhance the efficiency of immigration enforcement, including facilitating the deportation process, they also raise new challenges.

"A key issue is the lack of transparency, which not only presents significant legal risks but also exposes these systems to potential political manipulation," the authors warn.

The article addresses the legal and technological hurdles associated with the use of ADM systems by immigration departments, particularly in deportation processes, within the broader context of responsible ADM use and regulation.

The experts propose a coherent framework be built so these concerns can be addressed with responsible regulatory measures.

Corresponding author Associate Professor Guo, a visiting research fellow at the Harvard Law School Human Rights Program, says the integration of ADM tools into public decision-making is still in its early stages, and governments and agencies continue to wrestle with some fundamental questions about regulation and other issues.

"So now is the time to lay a strong regulatory foundation and to use foresight to understand which legal rules should persist and which must evolve with ADM advancements."

Adaptable regulatory measures, including government policy and industry self-regulation, will be necessary to evolve with changing technologies.

Professor Guo, with co-authors Dr. Tim McFarland, an international law and Australian immigration solicitor, and Dr. George Yijun Tian, a senior lecturer from University of Technology Sydney Law Faculty, say the article was not focused on country-specific issues but rather on the broader intersection of law, technology, and human impact.

The paper references case studies from Australia, the US, and the EU with analysis and recommendations relevant on a global scale.

"Therefore, creating a regulatory framework that balances adaptability with the protection of fundamental principles is essential for the responsible integration of ADM technologies worldwide," they conclude.

More information: George Yijun Tian et al, Automated decision making and deportation: legal concerns and regulation, Griffith Law Review (2025). DOI: 10.1080/10383441.2025.2477946
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:

Using a resin reproduction of a Bronze Age figurine, UC Assistant Professor Florence Gaignerot-Driessen will make clay molds to learn more about the ancient mass production process. Credit: Andrew Higley

A Classics researcher at the University of Cincinnati is using today's technology to learn more about the mass production and placement of votives in ancient Greece.

UC College of Arts and Sciences Assistant Professor Florence Gaignerot-Driessen is leading an archaeological project at the ancient Greek site of Anavlochos on the island of Crete where she and her collaborators study clay fragments.

Atop the mountain she found figurines and molded plaques embedded deep in the crevices of the bedrock. All were female figures.

"We call them 'the ladies of Anavlochos,'" she said.

Gaignerot-Driessen and her international research partners are examining whether these terracottas were broken deliberately or accidentally. They were deposited ritually high atop a mountain featuring breathtaking views of the countryside and the Mediterranean Sea. Climbing to the top of the ridge takes some effort, but it's worth it, she said.

"The view is just incredible," she said.

Now Gaignerot-Driessen is using modern engineering resins and the latest 3D scanning and printing technology to reproduce the ancient molds, figurines and plaques. By doing this she hopes to learn more about how they were produced for a mass audience in ancient Greece.

Researchers have not found the workshop where these ancient ceramics were made. But the figurines and their deposition or placement in the crevices of the bedrock have their own story to tell.

"They were produced with little care," she said. "They had little intrinsic value as they were produced from clay rather than precious materials like metal or ivory. They were modest offerings. So you didn't need to be a rich or important person to buy your little figurine to deposit."

Gaignerot-Driessen worked with Sabine Sorin from the French National Center for Scientific Research to create 3D models of the figurines. She also collaborated with UC's College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning to reproduce the figurines at the college's Rapid Prototyping Center using its 3D printers. In the college's ceramics lab, she uses clay to make new molds of the figurines to try to rediscover the steps and methods of mass production three millennia ago.

Using resin reproductions of Bronze Age figurines, UC Assistant Professor Florence Gaignerot-Driessen will make clay molds to learn more about mass production processes in ancient Greece. Credit: Andrew Higley

The 3D-printed resin figurines turn bright green in machines that help cure the material. Credit: Andrew Higley

Ritual significance

Anavlochos was settled between 1200 and 650 B.C. The figurines date between 900 B.C. and 350 B.C., which means that many of them were deposited after people left the settlement.

Sorin used tools such as photogrammetry and lasergrammetry to create 3D simulations of the terrain identifying the locations and placement of the pottery fragments in the crevices of the bedrock. Researchers could then simulate how the pottery was inserted into the crevices.

The pottery included plaques featuring the mythological sphinx, a fantastic creature with a woman's head and a lion's winged body. They also found figures of women wearing traditional clothing, including a large decorative hat called a polos and a cloak called an epiblema over a belted dress.

"It's a typical representation of a feminine figure in the seventh century B.C. They wear a long dress with a decoration imitating the weave of the fabric," she said.

The style of plaques found at Anavlochos demonstrate Near Eastern influences on Greek culture.

"We know that in the seventh century, imported objects arrived to Crete from the Near East. And immigrant craftsmen also came from the Near East," she said.

When it comes to the significance of rituals that might have taken place there, archaeologists and historians can only speculate.

"We don't have any written text about these practices. But they may have been rites of initiation or passage for women: daughters and mothers," she said.

"Perhaps, they were offering these terracotta votives to a deity to protect themselves," she said. "The devotees perhaps were mothers and young maidens in the process of reaching one of these important points in their lives."

The project is under the auspices of the French School at Athens in association with the Greek Ministry of Culture and Sports.

University of Cincinnati Assistant Professor Florence Gaignerot-Driessen, left, consults with fabrication lab technician Jeffery Welch in UC's Rapid Prototyping Center. Credit: Andrew Higley

University of Cincinnati Assistant Professor Florence Gaignerot-Driessen is using innovative methods to unlock the secrets of ancient mass production in Crete. She is working in UC's Ceramics Lab to reproduce figurines like those she and her international archaeology team have uncovered in Crete. Credit: Andrew Higley

Assistant Professor Florence Gaignerot-Driessen makes clay plaques from molds in the University of Cincinnati's Ceramics Lab. The plaque is a reproduction of a Bronze Age plaque found interred in crevices in bedrock at Anavlochos, Crete. It features an image of a sphinx. Credit: Andrew Higley

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

Learning techniques

Gaignerot-Driessen hopes to determine whether the undecorated backs of figurines depicting a mother nursing her baby were molded or modeled, which could give clues about ancient mass production techniques and technology.

This year Gaignerot-Driessen is taking students to Crete to work with specialists and technicians to study items excavated at Anavlochos. Students also will use locally sourced clays to mold and model new figurines and experiment with breaking them to find out whether they were broken deliberately before the pieces were deposited or by accident once they were interred.

"This is experimental archaeology," she said. "We try to reconstruct ancient techniques and practices."

The collaboration with UC Classics is a first for Nicholas Germann, manager of UC's Rapid Prototyping Center.

"This project brings together ancient and cutting-edge methods," Germann said.

"It's recreating lost techniques of ceramics and revolutionary processes to observe degradation," he said. "It's absolutely amazing."
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: Felicity Tai from Pexels

To be talked about or to be ignored, which is better? It's not a Shakespearean question, but one that a research team led by a University of Mississippi professor wanted to answer.

Decades of research on ostracism have shown that even subtle or brief instancessuch as being ignored by a strangercan threaten our most basic psychological needs, said Andrew Hales, an Ole Miss assistant professor of psychology.

"When someone ostracizes you, even if it's just momentarily, even if it's just a stranger, it makes you feel like an outsider," Hales said. "It makes you feel bad about yourself. It makes you feel momentarily meaningless."

Add gossip to the mix, and the situation quickly becomes an even trickier psychological riddle.

"Gossip has a bad reputation for a reason: no one wants to be talked about behind their back," he said. "But at the same time, people don't want to be ignored either. So, if your only options are being gossiped about or being seen as so insignificant that no one even mentions you, both feel negative, just in very different ways.

"This research set out to explore what happens when those two powerful social motives collide."

Hales teamed with Meltem Yucel, a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience at Duke University, and Selma Rudert, a professor of social psychology and society at the University of Kaiserlautern-Landau in Germany, to tackle this question.

Yucel has studied gossip across different age groups, from young children to college students, and how it influences friendships and social dynamics. She became interested in gossip as a child in Turkey, where she attended Day of Gold gatherings, traditional events where women eat, drink, and gossip.

"When I was a kid, if I ever wanted to comment on gossip, I'd be shushed or told not to get involved in adult conversations," Yucel said. "So, I was always curiouswhy is it OK when adults do it, but not kids?

"That question stuck with me for a long time, and it wasn't until my Ph.D. that I finally had the chance to really research it."

For this study, the researchers asked volunteers to imagine being at a party where people who leave become the subject of conversation. When they leave the party, they're asked: would you rather be talked about or not?

Openness to gossip by scenario and target in Study 4, N = 397. Bars represent mean response, and error bars represent standard errors of the mean. Credit: Self and Identity (2025). DOI: 10.1080/15298868.2025.2467737

The researchers conducted five experiments with more than 1,000 participants to explore the question through different variations.

Their results were published recently in the journal Self and Identity.

"People would rather be gossiped about positively than negatively," Hales said. "But one thing that really surprised me is that within each of those, the preferences were not universal. About a third of participants said they didn't want to be the focus of positive gossip.

"While the reasons aren't fully clear, it's possible they view positive gossip as potentially insincere or worry it could quickly turn negative."

The researchers found that gender and narcissism are key predictors of a desire to be the focus of gossip, even when it's negative. On average, 15% of individuals with this preference tend to be narcissists, and men are more likely than women to exhibit this desire.

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

"Narcissists often feel entitled and special, so they may believe gossip about them is positive, even if it's clearly negative," Hales said. "More likely, though, they prefer negative attention over being ignored altogether."

According to the research, most people dislike being the target of negative gossipabout 85% are opposed to it. However, positive gossip is generally welcomed with around 64% of people liking it. Still, nearly 1 in 3 people are uncomfortable with positive gossip.

This could be due to a lack of control, suspicion of hidden negativity, or cultural/religious beliefs against gossip.

Another key finding is that gossip isn't inherently bad, Yucel said. It can serve important social functions. When done with good intentions and without lies, even negative gossip can help groups maintain fairness and accountability, she said.

"Gossip is ubiquitous," Hales said. "It's very common for people to talk about people. We're social animals, and social animals are fascinated with other people, and they're going to talk about them when they aren't present.

"Like all things in life, it's wise to be compassionate and thoughtful and deliberate about what you choose to share about other people."

More information: Andrew H. Hales et al, Openness to being gossiped about: understanding gossip from the target's perspective, Self and Identity (2025). DOI: 10.1080/15298868.2025.2467737
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:

Graphical abstract. Credit: ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces (2025). DOI: 10.1021/acsami.5c02147

An inexpensive paper sensor along with a smartphone-based reader developed by a Washington State University-led team can rapidly provide information on a person's personal smoke exposure during wildfire season.

The sensor can provide valuable information for firefighters and others to clarify just how much harmful pollution they might inhale during smoky conditions. The researchers, including those from the University of Washington and University of Georgia, report on their work in the journal, ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces.

The paper biosensor uses tiny, flower-like particles of palladium and platinum to detect and amplify the signal from wildfire smoke biomarkers in urine. To make the system field-ready, the team also developed a custom 3D-printed smartphone reader and app, allowing users to rapidly scan and quantify their exposure on-site.

"Our goal is to quickly identify the exposure onsite in real time and report it with a smartphone reader, so agencies can quickly identify the exposure level and location and make decisions for a hazard prevention strategy," said Annie Du, a research professor in WSU's School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering who is leading the project.

L-R Professor Annie Du, postdoctoral researcher Xinyi Li, and research scientist Zhansen Yang developed a paper sensor along with a smartphone-based reader that can rapidly provide information on a persons personal smoke exposure during wildfire season. Li and Yang are co-first authors on the work. Credit: Washington State University

With the increasing number and size of wildfires in recent years, researchers would like better information on people's personal smoke exposure to understand and mitigate its health impacts more effectively. Human exposure to wood smoke is linked to numerous health issues, including respiratory disease, cardiovascular disease, and lung cancer.

Currently, estimates of a person's smoke exposure level are not exact. Agencies determine how much smoke a person may be exposed to based on computer models that use regional meteorology, satellite data, air quality sensors in the region, or even personal perceptions of smoke levels.

Those methods sometimes miss the big variations in smoke that can happen in a small area. They also don't get a person's specific exposure levels to chemicals or how a person might variably metabolize and process pollutants in his or her body.

Furthermore, exposure to pollutants from wildfires could have impacts on peopleeven if they don't have a lot of symptoms.

"You're exposed to smoke when you breathe in the polluted air, but your body changes that to a metabolite and introduces changes to your DNA," said Du, who is also in the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. "That's why we are focused on early detection. We want to catch biological changes before clinical symptoms appear."

There are blood tests to measure smoke exposure, but they're cumbersome and expensive, requiring that samples be sent to a laboratory for analysis. When fires are in remote areas, getting information on a person's exposure is even more difficult.

With the test strips, the researchers were able to measure tiny amounts of metabolites from the pollutant benzene. Their biosensor device is low-cost and very sensitive to the signal of the benzene metabolites.

Unlike a COVID test strip, which only determines whether or not a person has COVID, their sensor can quantify the amount of harmful chemicals someone has been exposed to. The 3D-printed sensor can be connected to a smartphone, so that using a phone's location data, researchers can determine exactly where smoke levels are most hazardous and identify the chemicals present in different neighborhoods.

The researchers have tested the strips in a lab setting. They will now begin testing the strips with firefighters during the wildfire season and comparing them to standard lab tests. While they will initially test with wildland firefighters, they are working with WSU's Office of Commercialization and plan to adapt and expand the technology to other vulnerable populations in the future.

More information: Zhansen Yang et al, Mesoporous Pd@Pt Nanoparticle Label/Lateral Flow Immunoassay Integrated with a 3D-Printed Smartphone Reader for Detection of Wood Smoke Biomarkers, ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces (2025). DOI: 10.1021/acsami.5c02147 Journal information: ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces
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:

Florida's Indian River Lagoon suffers from frequent harmful algae blooms (HABs) caused by excess nutrients from farms, septic systems and urban areas. Credit: Brian Lapointe, FAU Harbor Branch

While an abundance of parasites might seem like a bad thing, their absence actually signals trouble in the environment. Parasites are found throughout nature and are part of nearly every major animal group. Many ecosystems with rich wildlife also have a wide variety of parasites, since parasites depend on specific hosts to survive.

When human activities like pollution disturb ecosystems, these hostparasite relationships can break down. Because some parasites need several different hosts to complete their life cycles, their presence can tell us a lot about the health and complexity of an ecosystem.

In the 1970s, the Indian River Lagoon (IRL) was considered one of Florida's cleanest coastal lagoons. Today, the IRL, which spans 156 miles along Florida's east coast, suffers from frequent harmful algae blooms (HABs) caused by excess nutrients from farms, septic systems and urban areas. These blooms have severely reduced seagrass bedsvital habitats for fish and invertebrateswhich still haven't recovered.

As such, researchers from Florida Atlantic University's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute and Charles E. Schmidt College of Science and from Florida Oceanographic Society suspected that parasite levels in the IRL would be affected by these environmental changes. Despite a few records, no long-term parasite datasets exist for the IRL. To help fill that gap, researchers used a meta-analysis approachcomparing their findings with global data from similar species and ecosystems.

Results of the study, published in the journal Estuaries and Coasts, found that parasites were less common in the IRL compared to other coastal and estuarine ecosystems around the world. In fact, the proportion of infected hosts in the IRL was about 11% lower than what is typically observed in similar environments.

Christopher Moore, Ph.D., senior author, retrieving samples for the research. Credit: Brianna Davis

More importantly, researchers saw an even bigger dropabout 17%in the prevalence of larval-stage parasites that rely on multiple hosts to complete their life cycles. These types of parasites often depend on a stable and complex food web, moving from prey to predator as they develop.

The fact that they're much less common in the IRL suggests the local food web may be simplified or disrupted, likely due to environmental stressors like pollution, habitat loss and recurring algae blooms. This reduced complexity could mean fewer interactions between species and a less resilient ecosystem overall.

"The Indian River Lagoon is mostly surrounded by suburban development, but our parasite findings suggest its food web looks more like those found in heavily urbanized areas," said Christopher Moore, Ph.D., senior author and postdoctoral researcher at the University of Florida, who conducted the study as a postdoctoral fellow at FAU Harbor Branch.

"Water quality problems and patchy seagrass cover likely limit how freely host species can move, which in turn reduces parasite presence and signals a simpler, more fragile ecosystem. As restoration continues, our parasite data can serve as a useful baseline to track how the lagoon's food web recovers after years of nutrient pollution and habitat decline."

From October 2022 to October 2023, researchers sampled six sites in the central and southern IRL, focusing on areas where seagrass was starting to regrow after a 2019 algae bloom die-off. They collected and dissected fish and crustaceans, recording parasites with complex life cycleslike nematodes, tapeworms, flukes and parasitic isopods. They used both visual ID and DNA barcoding to identify the parasites, and compared their results with other studies to see how the IRL measures up in terms of parasite presence and abundance.

Christopher Moore, Ph.D., senior author, retrieving samples for the research. Credit: Brianna Davis

Christopher Moore, Ph.D., senior author, holding a giant oyster toadfish, a species of fish they routinely examined for parasites. Credit: Brianna Davis

Crustaceans and fish in the IRL had lower parasite infection rates than similar species in other ecosystems11% lower in crustaceans and 8% lower in fish. Fewer parasites also used these animals as final hosts5% less for crustaceans and 11% less for fish.

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

While small intertidal fish typically host more parasites than crustaceans in other systems, the IRL showed no such difference. Overall, parasite prevalence in the IRL was 34% lower, with the biggest decline in digenetic trematodes (15%), isopods (20%) and nematodes (9%).

"These results highlight a striking shift in the ecological health of the Indian River Lagoon," said Michael McCoy, Ph.D., co-author and a professor at FAU's Harbor Branch and Charles E. Schmidt College of Science.

"The significantly lower parasite prevalenceespecially among trematodes, isopods and nematodessuggests a disruption in the biodiversity needed to support the parasites' complex life cycles. Parasites are often invisible indicators of ecosystem integrity, and here, their scarcity is telling us something important."

Parasites with identifiable larval stages, like tapeworms (cestodes), thorny-headed worms (acantocephalans) and flukes (trematodes), were also much less common than expected. No larval tapeworms or acanthocephalans were found in the crabs, suggesting these complex parasites are largely absent in the lagoon. Though only crabs were studied, this points to a general lack of these parasites in the area.

"Just like Washington state's Puget Sounda complex estuarine system of interconnected marine waterways and basinsour parasite data suggest that food webs in the Indian River Lagoon are being disrupted, largely due to seagrass loss," said Moore.

"These disruptions have led to declines in meso-predators like sea trout, whose numbers dropped sharply after harmful algal blooms first appeared in 2011. These blooms, driven by excess nutrients, damage seagrass habitats and upset the balance of predators and prey in the ecosystem."

Study co-author is Krista McCoy, Ph.D., director of research and conservation at the Florida Oceanographic Society.

More information: Christopher Moore et al, Parasites of Crustaceans and Fishes in the Indian River Lagoon, Florida: A Meta-Analysis Across Intertidal Systems and Taxa, Estuaries and Coasts (2025). DOI: 10.1007/s12237-025-01531-2
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:

The top and middle panels display the NuSTAR light curves of RX J0032.9-7348 in the 310 keV and 1079 keV energy ranges, respectively. The bottom panel shows the hardness ratio, defined as the ratio of count rates in the 1079 keV to 310 keV energy bands. The light curves are binned at 200 seconds. Credit: arXiv (2025). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2504.21671

Astronomers have employed the Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR) and the Neutron Star Interior Composition Explorer (NICER) to observe the X-ray pulsar RX J0032.9-7348 in a broadband X-ray energy range. Results of the observational campaign, published April 30 on the arXiv preprint server, yield important insights into the properties of this pulsar.

Pulsars are rapidly rotating neutron stars with strong magnetic fields that emit beams of electromagnetic radiation. While they are most commonly detected as brief bursts of radio waves, some pulsars can also be observed in optical, X-ray, and gamma-ray wavelengths.

Accretion-powered X-ray pulsars (XRPs) are magnetized neutron stars found in X-ray binary (XRB) systems. They produce X-rays by accreting mass from their companion star.

RX J0032.9-7348 was first identified as an X-ray transient source in the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC) about 30 years ago. It experienced an X-ray brightening in October 2024 and recent observations have detected X-ray pulsation with a period of approximately 7.02 seconds, which allowed astronomers to classify this source as an XRP.

However, although RX J0032.9-7348 has been known for decades, very little is known regarding its properties and its optical counterpart has not been identified. Therefore, a team of astronomers led by Birendra Chhotaray of the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) in Ahmedabad, India, decided to take a closer look at this pulsar with NuSTAR and NICER.

"Following the reported X-ray brightening of the source, we proposed a Target of Opportunity (ToO) observation with NuSTAR, which was carried out on November 17, 2024 for an exposure of 25 ks. We also monitored the source with NICER to investigate the timing and spectral properties of the source," the researchers wrote.

The observations conducted by Chhotaray's team confirmed the X-ray pulsation period of RX J0032.9-7348 and found that its pulse profile across a broad energy range is double-peaked, with moderate variations observed as a function of energy.

During the observations, the spin period of RX J0032.9-7348 increased at a rate of approximately -0.00033 seconds per day. This spin-up suggests that the pulsar gained angular momentum, likely due to accretion processes during the X-ray brightening phase. While the orbital period of the binary is still unknown, the astronomers estimated that it may be within the range of 2030 days.

Furthermore, it turned out that the luminosity of the pulsar varied from 8.2 undecillion to 37 undecillion erg/s during the monitoring campaign. The researchers report that no evidence of iron emission line or cyclotron resonance scattering features was found in the energy spectrum of this source.

When it comes to the magnetic field of RX J0032.9-7348, the authors of the paper estimated that it should be between 0.14 and 3.2 trillion Gauss, assuming a limiting luminosity at a level of 0.015.0 undecillion erg/s.

More information: Birendra Chhotaray et al, Broadband study of the SMC pulsar RX J0032.9-7348 during its X-ray brightening in 2024, arXiv (2025). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2504.21671 Journal information: arXiv

 2025 Science X Network
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: RDNE Stock project from Pexels

Government coalition partners National and Act are at odds over proposed restrictions on social media use by New Zealanders aged 16 and under.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon recently announced a National Party private member's bill that would require social media companies to verify someone is aged 16 or older. Luxon said social media was not "always a safe place for young people."

But ACT Party leader David Seymour has dismissed National's proposal, saying it was "simple, neat and wrong."

Even if the member's bill is not chosen out of the parliament biscuit tin, global interest in getting young people off social media is increasing.

In late 2024, Australia passed a law banning children aged under 16 from social media platforms. Advocates, police and politicians in the United Kingdom, United States and elsewhere have all proposed similar laws.

While there is merit in young people spending more time offline, and there are real concerns about the impact of social media on wider society, it's not clear that outright prohibition will achieve what is hoped for. Here are ten reasons a blanket ban is not the answer.

1. The addiction fallacy

Lobby group Before 16 has compared social media to tobacco, saying the platforms should be treated as a public health harm. The implication is that young people could get addicted to social media.

But the standard for diagnosing addiction is high. Most young people are not addicted to social media; they have a habitual relationship with it that is hard to change.

Likewise, comparing digital experiences to food may not capture the full range of interactions and impacts. This often implies value judgments, suggesting online experiences are all about "dopamine hits" (similar to sweet treats) and inherently less valuable or "unhealthy" compared to offline experiences.

2. People are not 'exposed to' social media

The language of the ban seems to suggest the relationship between social media and users goes in one directionthat people are simply exposed to the good and bad of platforms such as Facebook, TikTok and X. But using social media is not like going outside and getting burnt by the sun.

While social media affects people, it's also a tool we use to actively shape and create meaning for ourselves. It provides social scaffolding for day-to-day lives, identity formation, communication with family overseas, community support, and even a place to complain about parents.

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

3. Murky science

One of the most influential books behind the ban is Jonathan Haidt's The Anxious Generation. Haidt claims a causal link between social media use and increased anxiety and depression in Gen Z (those born between 1995 and 2012).

But this claim is highly contentious and has been criticized for failing to consider other causes for the rise in anxiety in young people.

At best, there may be a correlation between social media and poor mental healththey are happening at the same time. Young people are also grappling with the climate crisis, increasing inequality and global instability. These variables are difficult to isolate in a study, meaning social media becomes an easy target.

4. A range of experiences

Critics of social media also assume everyone has a negative experience online. And yes, if you tend to compare yourself to others on social media then you might end up feeling bad about your life.

But not everyone thinks this way or uses social media to compare what they have (and don't have) with others.

5. The moral panic factor

Moral panics can occur when emerging technologies challenge established social norms.

Phenomena such as "phubbing" (using a phone to snub someone) challenge what is considered "socially acceptable" behavior, triggering a deluge of think pieces about how they hurt society.

While some skills may decline (such as reading and writing) with new technology, others like visual or oral storytelling practiced on social media are on the rise.

Banning social media could mean young people miss out on valuable digital skills.

6. Marginalized groups lose out

Getting young people off social media might not be a big deal for kids who fit within their community. But if you are young, gay and live in a small town, for example, social media may provide the only space where you can feel safe or celebrated for who you are.

Social media is also a key means for immigrants to stay in touch with their families and culture.

7. Enforcement challenges

There are also problems with how the ban is supposed to worksomething Australia is still grappling with despite already passing a ban into law (which comes into effect at the end of this year).

Policymakers have yet to explain how age verification technologies would work without giving away more personal data to media platforms. And everyone would have to verify their age, regardless of whether they are under 16 years old or not.

8. Losing innovation

Young people are savvier with technology than older generations. They lead with innovations such as FINSTA (fake Instagram) accountsfake profiles that allow people to post more privately on Instagram without the pressure of conforming to expectations or the judgment of people who know them.

Blanket bans could hurt this technological adeptness and creativity and stop young people from teaching us how to navigate our online and offline lives.

9. Learning how to disconnect

Media literacy is also a crucial skill in today's media-saturated age. The skill of unplugging could become part of that curriculum.

Temporarily going offline is an excellent way to make students aware of their relationship with social media. Schools could have media-free classes or courses to build awareness, encourage new habits and support students to develop new routines.

10. Better options than a ban

No one is arguing that social media hasn't had a negative effect on individuals and society as a whole. But instead of a ban, why not work to improve the platforms?

We could focus regulatory efforts on creating safer spaces, like we do with physical buildings.

Overseas advocacy work on children's digital rights shows how we can protect children from algorithms, gamification and other predatory tactics used by social media platforms, rather than introducing an outright ban.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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:

Living an unprecedented lifean illustration. The figure shows the cumulative number of heat waves faced since birth by children born in Brussels, Belgium, in 2020 under three climate change scenarios, reaching 1.5C (blue), 2.5C (orange), and 3.5C (red) global warming by 2100, respectively. The unprecedented exposure threshold (dashed gray line) is largely surpassed, implying that children in this location will face unprecedented lifetime heat wave exposure regardless of the scenario. Credit: Grant et al., 2025, Nature.

Climate extremes, including heat waves, crop failures, river floods, tropical cyclones, wildfires and droughts, will intensify with continued atmospheric warming. Today's children will endure more climate extremes than any previous generation.

"In 2021, we demonstrated how children are to face disproportionate increases in extreme event exposureespecially in low-income countries. Now, we examined where the cumulative exposure to climate extremes across one's lifetime will far exceed that which would have been experienced in a pre-industrial climate," says Wim Thiery, professor of climate science at VUB and senior author of the study appearing in Nature.

"In this new study, living an unprecedented life means that without climate change, one would have less than a 1-in-10,000 chance of experiencing that many climate extremes across one's lifetime," says Dr. Luke Grant, lead author and climate scientist at the VUB and Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC).

"This is a stringent threshold that identifies populations facing climate extremes far beyond what could be expected without man-made climate change." The threshold varies by location and type of climate extreme.

By combining demographic data and climate model projections of climate extremes for each location on Earth, the researchers calculated the percentage of each generation born between 1960 and 2020 who will face unprecedented exposure to climate extremes in their lifetime.

Generational impact of climate change

The younger a person is, the higher their likelihood of unprecedented exposure to climate extremes. Even if we successfully limit global warming to 1.5C, 52% of children born in 2020 will face unprecedented heat wave exposure, compared to only 16% of those born in 1960. For heat waves, the effect is particularly pronounced for those born after 1980, when climate change scenarios increasingly dictate exposure levels.

"By stabilizing our climate to around 1.5C above pre-industrial temperatures, about half of today's young people will be exposed to an unprecedented number of heat waves in their lifetime. Under a 3.5C scenario, over 90% will endure such exposure throughout their lives," warns Grant.

"The same picture emerges for other climate extremes examined, though with slightly lower affected fractions of the population. Yet the same unfair generational differences in unprecedented exposure is observed."

Children in tropical countries will bear the worst burden under a 1.5C scenario. However, under high-emission scenarios, nearly all children worldwide face the prospect of living an unprecedented life.

Climate vulnerability and social injustice

The study also highlights the social injustice of climate change and its impacts. Under current climate policies, the most socioeconomically vulnerable children born in 2020 will almost all (95%) endure unprecedented exposure to heat waves in their lifetime, compared to 78% for the least vulnerable group.

"Precisely, the most vulnerable children experience the worst escalation of climate extremes. With limited resources and adaptation options, they face disproportionate risks," says Thiery.

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

Urgent need for global climate action

Ahead of COP30 in Brazil, nations must submit updated climate commitments. Under current policies, global warming would reach around 2.7C this century. This study and the related Save The Children report emphasize the urgency of keeping global warming below 1.5C for the children of today and tomorrow.

Inger Ashing, CEO of Save the Children International, said, "Across the world, children are forced to bear the brunt of a crisis they are not responsible for. Dangerous heat that puts their health and learning at risk; cyclones that batter their homes and schools; creeping droughts that shrivel up crops and shrink what's on their plates.

"Amid this daily drumbeat of disasters, children plead with us not to switch off. This new research shows there is still hope, but only if we act urgently and ambitiously to rapidly limit warming temperatures to 1.5C, and truly put children front and center of our response to climate change."

"With global emissions still rising and the planet only 0.2C away from the 1.5C threshold, world leaders must step up to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lessen the climate burden on today's youth," concludes Thiery.

Children in tropical countries are relatively worse off under ambitious climate scenarios, while nearly every child around the world will face unprecedented lifetime heat wave exposure under high warming scenarios. Credit: Grant et al., 2025, Nature.

The study was performed by researchers from Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Environment and Climate Change Canada, KU Leuven, the Royal Meteorological Institute of Belgium (RMI), and ETH Zurich.

The numbers reported in the new study focus on one single birth cohort: children born in 2020, who are today's five-year-olds. Climate extremes will affect all generations, with children the most. The researchers therefore provide numbers that take into account all children who are between 5 and 18 years old today, which represents a total population of 1.69 billion children.

Heat waves Under a 1.5C pathway, 855 million children aged 518 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to heat waves. Under a 2.7C pathway, 1353 million children aged 518 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to heat waves. Under a 3.5C pathway, 1509 million children aged 518 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to heat waves.

Crop failures Under a 1.5C pathway, 316 million children aged 518 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to crop failures. Under a 2.7C pathway, 400 million children aged 518 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to crop failures. Under a 3.5C pathway, 431 million children aged 518 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to crop failures.

Wildfires Under a 1.5C pathway, 119 million children aged 518 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to wildfires. Under a 2.7C pathway, 134 million children aged 518 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to wildfires. Under a 3.5C pathway, 147 million children aged 518 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to wildfires.

Droughts Under a 1.5C pathway, 89 million children aged 518 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to droughts. Under a 2.7C pathway, 111 million children aged 518 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to droughts. Under a 3.5C pathway, 116 million children aged 518 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to droughts.

River floods Under a 1.5C pathway, 132 million children aged 518 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to river floods. Under a 2.7C pathway, 188 million children aged 518 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to river floods. Under a 3.5C pathway, 191 million children aged 518 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to river floods.

Tropical cyclones Under a 1.5C pathway, 101 million children aged 518 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to tropical cyclones. Under a 2.7C pathway, 163 million children aged 518 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to tropical cyclones. Under a 3.5C pathway, 163 million children aged 518 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to tropical cyclones.



More information: Global emergence of unprecedented lifetime exposure to climate extremes, Nature (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-08907-1. www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08907-1 Journal information: Nature
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:

Mining for iron ore has led to land subsidence, forcing the relocation of the Swedish town of Kiruna. Imgur, CC BY-SA

With large parts of New Zealand having recently been pummeled by ex-tropical Cyclone Tam and ongoing bouts of heavy rain, it is important to remember that natural hazards have long shaped our cities.

Two townships in particularWestport and Kumeuhave featured in national stories about floods since the 19th century.

They are now among a growing number of places where flooding infrastructure is losing effectiveness and drastic actions have to be considered, including managed retreat.

This raises understandable concerns about anticipated drops in land value and loss of social connection to a place. But managed or planned retreat is not a new concept nationally or globally. International examples can serve as useful references.

These stories from four communities in three countries show how connection to culture and place can be either challenged or sustained when relocation becomes necessary.

Tallangatta, Australia: Six decades later

Back in 1956, the Australian township of Tallangatta in north-eastern Victoria was forced to move eight kilometers west because of the expansion of the Hume Weir.

Originally, "old" Tallangatta was located at the meeting point of the Mitta Mitta River and the Tallangatta Creek. But this was subsumed by a significant water-storage facility, the Hume Dam (Lake Hume).

During periods of low water levels, it is still possible to view the remains of the old town from a lookout.

About a hundred houses and a few shops were relocated, including some Victorian buildings. Residents said there was no cost to the relocation, with relocated houses repainted and given modern plumbing facilities that did not previously exist.

New public and commercial buildings were designed in the modernist architectural style of the era, and in 2016 Tallangatta was acknowledged as a "notable town" by the National Trust of Victoria.

The blend of Victorian and mid-century modernist buildings characterizes the new township and represents different eras in its history, including the physical and social upheaval of relocation.

But while it can be possible to physically move timber buildings to a new site, characteristics such as original township layout and social connection to the surrounding landscape can be lost.

Kiruna, Sweden: Cultural history, industrial growth

Sweden's northernmost town of Kiruna faces a similar situation due to land subsidence caused by a huge iron ore mine. Its 18,000 inhabitants now have to move about three kilometers east.

The town's rich cultural heritage includes a long Indigenous Sami history and a long period of industrial growth driven by the mine which saw it given national heritage recognition in the 1980s.

The relocation process has not been without its challenges. One big question was how many historic buildings to move to help retain authentic connections to place.

It was proposed that new building design would use the aesthetic qualities of the historic buildings. And there was discussion about either creating an "old town" within the site, or dispersing relocated buildings around the town.

Eventually, local representatives and the mining company (which funded the relocation) decided about 50 of the oldest buildings would be relocated while the remainder would be demolished.

Demolition has now taken place, along with construction of a new town hall to replace its predecessor, a heritage-listed building dating to 1964.

Such decisions call for careful balancing of the impacts on local Indigenous cultural heritage, the economic role the mine has played in the town's expansion, and its contribution to iron production in Europe in general.

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

Parallel narratives: Westport and Kumeu

Climate change is making floods more intense and frequent. New Zealand's South Island town of Westport is a 19th-century coal mining and trading settlement that experienced severe flooding in July 2021 and again in February 2022.

Although these floods were no larger than ones recorded in the past, their impact on homes and infrastructure was significantly greater due to Westport's expansion over the years. The July 2021 flood damaged more than 500 houses, resulting in a NZ$54 million flood protection plan.

In 2023, the Buller District Council initiated a master plan to guide Westport's future growth and development. It focuses on the controlled expansion of the township to higher ground on government-owned Pamu farmland one kilometer southwest of Westport.

The council endorsed Westport's master plan in March this year, but some residents are still apprehensive about the changes.

In the North Island, the township of Kumeu is close to Auckland, the country's biggest city, but still reflects its farming history. Following recent floods, as well as several major floods since 1926, Auckland Council and local leaders joined forces to devise a plan to improve the town's resilience.

While the prospect of managed retreat has been raised, proactive river maintenance seems the preferred option, including regular debris clearance by local contractors to optimize storm water drainage.

Managed retreat presents opportunities for improvement to Kumeu's infrastructure. But the long-established cultural relationships between people and landscapes in Aotearoa New Zealand also need to inform inclusive decisions about major relocations.

Connection to heritage rests on relationships with place and setting. These can include buildings, landscapes and views, as well as the historical and cultural values associated with a given site.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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

Wealthy individuals have a higher carbon footprint. A new study published in Nature Climate Change quantifies the climate outcomes of these inequalities. It finds that the world's wealthiest 10% are responsible for two-thirds of observed global warming since 1990 and the resulting increases in climate extremes such as heat waves and droughts.

The study assesses the contribution of the highest emitting groups within societies and finds that the top 1% of the wealthiest individuals globally contributed 26 times the global average to increases in monthly 1-in-100-year heat extremes globally and 17 times more to Amazon droughts.

The research sheds new light on the links between income-based emissions inequality and climate injustice, illustrating how the consumption and investments of wealthy individuals have had disproportionate impacts on extreme weather events. These impacts are especially severe in vulnerable tropical regions like the Amazon, Southeast Asia, and southern Africaall areas that have historically contributed the least to global emissions.

"Our study shows that extreme climate impacts are not just the result of abstract global emissions, instead we can directly link them to our lifestyle and investment choices, which in turn are linked to wealth," explains lead author Sarah Schongart, an alumna of the 2024 Young Scientists Summer Program (YSSP), who is currently associated with ETH Zurich.

"We found that wealthy emitters play a major role in driving climate extremes, which provides strong support for climate policies that target the reduction of their emissions."

Using a novel modeling framework that combined economic data and climate simulations, the researchers were able to trace emissions from different global income groups and assess their contributions to specific climate extremes. They found that emissions from the wealthiest 10% of individuals in the United States and China alone, each led to a two-to-three-fold increase in heat extremes across vulnerable regions.

"If everyone had emitted like the bottom 50% of the global population, the world would have seen minimal additional warming since 1990," says co-author Carl-Friedrich Schleussner, who leads the Integrated Climate Impacts Research Group at IIASA. "Addressing this imbalance is crucial for fair and effective climate action."

The study also emphasizes the importance of emissions embedded in financial investments, rather than just personal consumption. The authors argue that targeting the financial flows and portfolios of high-income individuals could yield substantial climate benefits.

"This is not an academic discussionit's about the real impacts of the climate crisis today," adds Schleussner. "Climate action that doesn't address the outsize responsibilities of the wealthiest members of society, risks missing one of the most powerful levers we have to reduce future harm."

The authors suggest that their findings could motivate progressive policy instruments targeted at societal elites, noting that such policies can also foster social acceptance of climate action. Making rich individual polluters pay can also help to provide much needed support for adaptation and loss and damage in vulnerable countries.

They conclude that rebalancing responsibility for climate action in line with actual emissions contributions is essential, not just to slow global warming, but to achieve a more just and resilient world.

More information: Schongart, S et al. High-income groups disproportionately contribute to climate extremes worldwide, Nature Climate Change (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41558-025-02325-x Journal information: Nature Climate Change
May Day holiday travel boom highlights China's consumer vitality

Xinhua) 08:15, May 07, 2025

Tourists visit the Fuzi (Confucius) Temple scenic area in Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province, May 1, 2025. Chinese tourists made 314 million domestic trips and spent 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars) from May 1 to 5, marking 6.4 percent and 8 percent year-on-year rises respectively, according to official figures. (Photo by Su Yang/Xinhua)

BEIJING, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Millions of Chinese travelers spent billions during their May Day holiday trips, offering a snapshot of resilient consumer confidence and the vitality of the world's second-largest economy.

Chinese tourists made 314 million domestic trips and spent 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars) from May 1 to 5, marking 6.4 percent and 8 percent year-on-year rises respectively, according to official figures.

As one of the busiest travel periods on the calendar, the holiday saw millions of Chinese people hit the road to visit family, explore domestic destinations or travel abroad. The surge in travel provided a boost to the transportation, tourism and retail sectors.

Tourism insiders hailed this May Day holiday the most vibrant in the past few years by different indications, pointing to strong data and robust market response.

In the past five days, highways were jammed, train tickets sold out within minutes, and major tourist destinations overflowed with visitors.

As the night fell, the energy remained high. In Guangxi, local governments hosted nighttime carnivals, dazzling light shows, and open-air concerts to revitalize the nightlife scene and encourage people to stay out longer and spend more.

Nationally recognized nighttime cultural and tourism zones registered nearly 76 million visits during the holiday, up 5.2 percent from a year ago, according to figures released by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

This push to diversify the holiday experience wasn't limited to nighttime attractions. Across the country, local governments and tourism operators embraced technology to enhance convenience and comfort for the millions of travelers on the move.

In the city of Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, an AI-powered peak-avoidance system helped visitors plan their routes more efficiently by analyzing real-time traffic and crowd data across the city's major attractions.

In Sichuan's Qingcheng Mountain scenic area, visitors encountered robotic exoskeletons designed to make trekking easier, along with drone delivery services that transported snacks and supplies to the mountains.

The surge in travel extended beyond China's borders. According to official data, China saw nearly 10.9 million inbound and outbound trips by Chinese and foreign nationals during the five-day break, an average of 2.18 million per day, up 28.7 percent from the same period last year.

The steady rebound in inbound tourism was fueled by growing interest from countries including Myanmar, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Australia and the United Kingdom.

China's visa-free policies also played a role. A total of 380,000 foreigners entered China under such arrangements during the holiday, a year-on-year increase of 72.7 percent.

To welcome more international travelers, China has expanded visa-free policies to allow longer stays and wider travel within the country with simplified visa procedures, and introduced new conveniences such as instant tax refunds for departing visitors.

Amid mounting global uncertainty, China has prioritized boosting consumption as a cornerstone of its economic growth. Policymakers at both the national and local levels have rolled out a series of targeted measures aimed at reviving household spending, with the service sector, which includes tourism, highlighted as a promising driver for this campaign.

Those efforts began bearing fruit. In the first quarter, China's total retail sales of consumer goods rose 4.6 percent year-on-year. Services consumption picked up pace as well, with service retail sales climbing 5 percent.

China's economy expanded by 5.4 percent in the first quarter compared to a year earlier, placing it among the fastest-growing major economies in the world.

An aerial drone photo taken on May 3, 2025 shows tourists walking a pedestrian suspension bridge built in the Yimeng mountains in Linyi, east China's Shandong Province. Chinese tourists made 314 million domestic trips and spent 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars) from May 1 to 5, marking 6.4 percent and 8 percent year-on-year rises respectively, according to official figures. (Photo by Wu Jiquan/Xinhua)

An aerial drone photo taken on May 4, 2025 shows tourists watching a performance at a scenic spot in Yichang, central China's Hubei Province. Chinese tourists made 314 million domestic trips and spent 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars) from May 1 to 5, marking 6.4 percent and 8 percent year-on-year rises respectively, according to official figures. (Photo by Zheng Jiayu/Xinhua)

Tourists take boats to visit the Huangyao ancient town in Zhaoping Couty, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, May 2, 2025. Chinese tourists made 314 million domestic trips and spent 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars) from May 1 to 5, marking 6.4 percent and 8 percent year-on-year rises respectively, according to official figures. (Photo by Liao Zuping/Xinhua)

An aerial drone photo taken on May 4, 2025 shows tourists visiting the Qingming Bridge historical community in Wuxi, east China's Jiangsu Province. Chinese tourists made 314 million domestic trips and spent 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars) from May 1 to 5, marking 6.4 percent and 8 percent year-on-year rises respectively, according to official figures. (Photo by Huan Yueliang/Xinhua)

Tourists enjoy leisure time at Zuidongfeng art village in Tancheng County, east China's Shandong Province, May 4, 2025. Chinese tourists made 314 million domestic trips and spent 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars) from May 1 to 5, marking 6.4 percent and 8 percent year-on-year rises respectively, according to official figures. (Photo by Zhang Chunlei/Xinhua)

An aerial drone photo taken on May 5, 2025 shows tourists enjoying food at the Xiyanggu scenic spot in Zunhua City, north China's Hebei Province. Chinese tourists made 314 million domestic trips and spent 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars) from May 1 to 5, marking 6.4 percent and 8 percent year-on-year rises respectively, according to official figures. (Photo by Liu Mancang/Xinhua)

An aerial drone photo taken on May 4, 2025 shows tourists visiting a scenic spot in Rugao City, east China's Jiangsu Province. Chinese tourists made 314 million domestic trips and spent 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars) from May 1 to 5, marking 6.4 percent and 8 percent year-on-year rises respectively, according to official figures. (Photo by Wu Shujian/Xinhua)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
Davenport council members will consider new communications protocols and guidelines for contacting city staff.

Among the guidelines are for council members to copy the city administrator on emails requesting information from department heads and other relevant staff; to give 48 hours notice, when possible, before a meeting of questions about an agenda item; refrain from giving directives to lower-level staff; and a pledge that answers will be distributed to all city council members.

City Administrator Doug Maxeiner said the guidelines came about at the request of council member Jazmin Newton, who in December raised issues during a council meeting about being treated differently than other council members and not receiving the same information with which to make decisions.

"I think it is a good practice to make everybody aware of what we consider our best practices moving forward," Maxeiner told a reporter after the meeting. "So, how do they (council members) get information? What options are available for them? And just to make sure that they have good information to make good decisions. That's our end game."

Maxeiner requested council members provide feedback within 30 days and it would be brought back for discussion and, Maxeiner said, likely as a resolution for approval by the city council.

What are in the guidelines?

On the guideline of copying the city administrator on emails, Maxeiner told the council city that staff were not trying to run interference.

"We want to know basically to avoid duplication efforts of staff, so we don't want one staff member working on an item and having (a different) staff member over here working that same item," Maxeiner said. "We'd like to make sure we use our resources wisely."

Maxeiner said requests for information on a hot-button issue may be better handled by a senior level manager.

Maxeiner also asked that requests for additional information on agenda items from elected officials be provided 48 hours in advance of the scheduled meeting if possible and that staff would strive to respond within 24 hours in advance of the meeting.

Responses to questions about agenda items should be provided to all members of the city council, Maxeiner said, and that would be the direction given to city staff.

"So that there's not one set of individuals that may have certain information and others don't have that," Maxeiner said. "We want to be consistent across the line."

Council members may also request a more in-depth look at a particular issue or problem, such as a recent request for the impact of the city's DREAM program. Requests that would take more than an hour of research, Maxeiner said, should be made through the city administrator or city attorney for legal questions. City council members may make a motion to request research on a particular topic to be reported back to the city council.

Maxeiner said elected officials should refrain from providing directives to an employee of the city and should direct concerns about city operations or advocacy for action from city staff to the city administrator.

Elected officials with complaints about a department head or staff members should share the concerns with the city administrator, Maxeiner said. If a council member has a complaint or concern about the city administrator, the mayor should be contacted, he said.

City staff complaints about the city organization, management or employee treatment at the hands of a supervisor should go either to the next level of supervision or to Human Resources, Maxeiner said.

The guidelines also recommend elected officials refrain from congregating or socializing in designated employee work areas in City Hall, especially prior to council meetings.

Elected officials are restricted from soliciting political favors or campaign contributions with money or time from Davenport employees.

If there is a significant issue, such as a natural disaster, fire, accidents involving employees or significant criminal activity, the city administrator or a representative will contact elected officials to notify them, the guidelines state.

What did council members say about it?

Ald. Ben Jobgen, 6th Ward, recommended council members direct constituents to the Davenport See Click Fix app, where residents can enter in information about a pothole, long grass, or another problem they spot, so city council members aren't directing city staff.

Ald. Marion Meginnis, 3rd Ward, asked that the staff find an alternative to just closing the request on the See Click Fix app while it's being assigned and worked on because it causes confusion and frustration for residents to see an item closed without being completed.

Newton said, on her first read she did not see any mention regarding staff's treatment of elected officials, which she said was an issue she brought personally and then publicly in December.

"I know it covers some of the information going out, but I think it should go a little bit deeper than that," Newton said.

She said the guidelines contradicted an email that Maxeiner sent instructing elected officials not to contact staff other than him or the city attorney. Maxeiner said that the guidelines were a change.

"This is loosening it up a little bit," Maxeiner said. "We addressed what needed to be addressed and so this is how we're treating things moving forward."

Newton also asked for a definition of what Maxeiner considers directives to city staff.

Council members receive open meetings training

City Attorney Sam Huff reviewed open meetings law with the city council Tuesday.

Huff went over the laws governing open meetings in Iowa  that meetings must have 24 hours notice, be conducted in open session unless the topic falls into one of 12 exceptions, be recorded in minutes, and that ambiguity in the law should be resolved in favor of openness.

"The law really is meant for the public to have as much transparency as possible as to the goings-on, deliberations, and actions of the government," Huff said.

A majority of members must be present for a meeting, Huff said.

After COVID-19, the state updated the open meetings law to require that a member of the governing body be given an option to participate virtually.

Huff warned against walking quorums or serial meetings  members cannot use a series of smaller gatherings to circumvent open meetings requirements. Council members also must be careful not to come to a consensus in electronic communications. If the city administrator gathers feedback individually from council members, he can share that feedback at a public council meeting, but not privately.

Also, Huff said, electronic communications about public business are public records, regardless of whether the device used was a personal device or city device.

There are 12 reasons outlined in state law that allow public bodies to go into closed session. Huff said members must stick to the reason or reasons listed on the agenda, such as pending litigation. A motion to go into closed session must pass by a two-thirds majority.

Closed sessions must be audio recorded and meeting minutes taken. Those must be retained for at least one year after the closed session, Huff said. Final decisions on actions must be made in open session if discussed in closed session, Huff said.

"You're not violating anything if you have an information session where you're just gathering information and listening and you're not, discussing the topic more than just information gathering," Huff said. "Sitting in a room with two of your colleagues hearing a presentation saying oh yeah, I like this idea how about you? How about you? That's not OK, especially if shared to another small group that might be having a similar discussion."

Knowingly violating the open meetings law can result in individual fines for council members, Huff said. Lawmakers recently upped the penalties in response to concerns in Davenport over settlements that were first executed in private.
After hours of public comment from equally passionate opposition and support, the Rapid City Council voted 7-2 to continue its contract with a company to develop a parking lot on St. Joseph Street next to the Stockgrowers Association building.

Counselors Greg Strommen, Ward 3, and Rod Pettigrew, Ward 5, voted to terminate the contract. Those voting against termination  effectively continuing the agreement  were Josh Biberdorf and Jesse Ham of Ward 1, Lindsey Seachris and Bill Evans of Ward 2, John Roberts and Lance Lehmann of Ward 4 and Pat Roseland of Ward 5. Kevin Maher, Ward 3, was not present for the vote.

The lot, located at 416 St. Joseph Street between Property Meld and the South Dakota Stockgrowers building, has been a point of contention since the council originally voted in August 2023 to sell the lot to 11 Main LLC for $900,000. The parties entered into the agreement in September 2023, which included a stipulation the sale must close before Jan. 31, 2025.

This contract has expired. End of sentence, Doris Lauing, South Dakota Stockgrowers Association executive director, said at Monday night's meeting. Lauing also said the city keeping the parking lot has positives given the new Block 5 development thats almost completed. She also expressed concerns with the easement process. An easement was filed in late October.

Since the sale hasnt closed, the city can terminate the agreement. Opponents argued the property should go out to a bid, allowing multiple projects to be considered.

I feel like the city has gotten stuck on a potential project without knowing what other projects exist and that an RFP (Request for Proposal) is always the best way, one man said. If the project goes forward, it will be a great addition to downtown, but we don't know what else is out there? The process, to me, is flawed.

Owners of 11 Main LLC approached the city and asked about buying the parking lot because of a need to expand the local technology company, Property Meld, but other companies did not get the chance to bid for it. The lot was not previously for sale until 11 Main reached out. Per state law, municipalities do not have to put a property out for bid.

The company plans to build two multi-use buildings in the Innovation District. The district spans from the South Dakota School of Mines to Fifth Street, encompassing Omaha, Main and St. Joseph streets. The city aims to encourage housing and business development  particularly in tech  that will help retain School of Mines graduates.

The companys plans include a 13,000 square-foot, three-story building with a bar on the first floor, office on the second and apartments on the third floor. A second building, Phase 2 of the development, is a four- or five-floor mixed use building with office space for professional businesses. The first floor will be office space. The potential four additional floors would offer apartment living in the heart of downtown Rapid City, creating a walkable and desirable live, work, play experience for professionals in the community, according to the project plans.

The company also plans to add green space and potentially some underground parking. The green space would be open to the public during the day, but locked at night.

There were two agenda items on Monday related to the lot. The first agenda item was to terminate the agreement because the closing had not occurred by the date set forth in the agreement, which failed with the 7-2 vote.

The second agenda item was to establish a Tax Increment Finance (TIF) District to help support the project, which passed with a 7-2 vote. That vote mirrored the first with Strommen and Pettigrew voting against and the remainder of the present council members voting in favor.

Todd Gagne, of 11 Main LLC, said the project has definitely been a longer road, but its about hope.

I think what we're doing is we're building an economic engine to build the next Property Meld, the next company to build more kind of high-tech jobs and this space is just that, Gagne said.

He said there are contracts with WildFire and Property Meld for the space. Wildfire Labs, a technology incubator, is a six- to nine-month program that software entrepreneurs can participate in. Property Meld is a property maintenance software company. 11 Main LLCs attorney, Talbot Wieczorek, said the company is ready to close.

"I've confirmed we have a closing set for May 28 at one o'clock. Funds are available. We have no issue with the title. Title companies are ready to go, he said.
Faith Jordan Candino is calling this a full circle moment.

In 2020, she was hired by Virginia Repertory Theatre for a production of Chicago set to run at the November Theatre in downtown Richmond. But due to the pandemic, it never happened.

I just remember at that age being so ready and so hungry for that opportunity, and then for it not to happen, I was like, Okay, well, this will happen one day in a greater capacity than I could probably ever imagine, she said. And here we are.

Starting Friday, Candino will be onstage for the Broadway national tour of Chicago at the Altria Theater, running through Sunday.

Its very full circle to be back in a city that really was transformative to me as an artist and a human being, Candino said.

Originally from Lawrenceville, Georgia, Candino, 26, moved to Richmond in 2016, right out of high school, to be a trainee with the Richmond Ballet.

I loved it, truly. It was kind of a program that broke me to build me, she laughed. It broke me down to my core, and then built up a whole new foundation I didnt know that I was capable of having, especially at that age. It was truly incredible.

I lived in the Fan District, right around the corner from the Altria Theater.

Set against the backdrop of Chicagos Jazz Age, Chicago follows two infamous murderesses from Cook County Jail, vaudeville star Velma Kelly and chorus girl Roxie Hart, as they turn into fierce rivals, competing for their moment in the spotlight amid a media whirlwind.

This is Candinos second tour with production. On her first tour, she understudied for all six roles of the female ensemble, but this time, shes got a role of her own, Mona.

She does the Lipschitz monologue in Cell Block Tango. She talks about how she and her husband had artistic differences and that was the grounds for murder, Candino said.

I would say that the humor is dark and morbid, to say the least. It is such a light-hearted approach to the idea that were in the 1920s, in Chicago, and theres this movement and this liberation of women being sick of being used and abused by men.

Broadways longest-running musical, Chicago has been entertaining audiences for 27 years with more than 10,000 performances, six Tony Awards, 2 Olivier Awards, and a Grammy.

The original production of Chicago ran on Broadway from 1975 to 1977. The revival began in 1996.

The 2002 film adaptation starred Renee Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones.

The storys themes are corruption, media manipulation and the pursuit of fame. Candino says the satire is what keeps it so relevant.

Roxy and Velma have this line at the end of the show, Thank you for having faith in us and faith in America, and what a wonderful country it is. And we always get such a huge roar of laughter from the audience, Candino said. The music is so infectious, you leave the theater humming. And I think that when people come to see it, it will stick with them as well.

The show has a huge legacy behind it, so to be living the legacy in the current day is truly remarkable, she added.

The show came together quickly, Candino says, with the cast learning all the choreography and vocals in about two and a half weeks.

The dynamic is wonderful. We have a lot of laughter and a lot of ad-libbing going on on-stage. There are just some very funny things that are said, silly faces, you get to know these people on such a personal level, and it just makes the show all the more tight-knit and so much fun to do every night, Candino said.

Candino spoke over the phone from New York City, taking a small break before heading back on tour. Shes excited to return to Richmond and is planning to stop at Shyndigz for a slice of their fresh fruit cake.

Honestly, Im just so excited to perform for the Richmond audience. A lot of my good friends there will be coming to see the show. Im just so honored to be performing for this community in such a different capacity. It is just like a full-circle moment.

'Chicago' When: Friday-Sunday Where: Altria Theater, 6 N. Laurel St. Tickets: Start at $53. etix.com More info: altriatheater.com
Last week, the Trump Administration began revoking National Endowment for the Arts grants.

Emails were sent just hours after President Trump proposed cutting the agency entirely from the federal budget.

Studio Two Three development director Kate Fowler says they received a notification at 10 p.m. Friday night that their previously rewarded $30,000 grant was now gone.

I opened my email and we had a notification from the National Endowment for the Arts that our tentative funding has been revoked, Fowler said.

Established in 1965, the NEA supports arts education across the country by awarding grants to nonprofit arts organizations, public arts agencies, educational institutions, federally recognized tribal communities and individual writers and translators, helping to foster both public and private investment in the arts.

The NEA is the latest target of Trumps sweeping overhaul of federal cultural agencies as he seeks to eliminate what he calls woke influences, according to The Associated Press. The president has fired top officials, cut funding and demanded new guidelines at the Kennedy Center, the Smithsonian Institution and the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Fowler said the email they received from the NEA was vague.

It said that the funding priorities had changed, she said. So we immediately recognized that this likely wasnt specific to our organization, but it was happening elsewhere, too. We saw online that earlier in the day, the Trump administration had said that they were cutting the NEA as a whole. So this came immediately after that.

Studio Two Three is a nonprofit community arts space that offers studios, classes, workshops and artist residencies. The space, located at 109 W. 15th St., provides 24/7 access to printing presses, communal workspace and individual studios to help support creating art for personal and social change.

Weve been expecting the NEA to be on the chopping block and have submitted a grant application for 2026 with absolutely no expectation of funding whatsoever, but thought we should do it anyway. So we were totally shocked and horrified that they pulled the funding for 2025, Fowler said. Many organizations who received notification as far back as November, including our organization, put it into our fiscal year budget plan. Every year, we get that funding. We have (received that) for the last five years.

It comes on time, we go through the same process. Its very reliable. Were well vetted through the NEA, so we had no reason to think that we are going to lose that funding. For an organization of our size, $30,000 is pretty significant, Fowler added.

The NEA grant isnt the only funding Studio Two Three has lost. Fridays notification came just a month after losing a $200,000 federal grant through the Department of Energy.

Weve lost about $230,000 from the federal government since the Trump administration started their second term, and our annual operating budget is about $650,000. 36% of our budget is gone for 2025 in a pretty short period of time, which is shocking, Fowler said.

The nonprofit shared their frustration in an Instagram post on Saturday. Fowler and executive director Ashley Hawkins said the post was made out of anger and frustration but also for awareness.

Were a pretty small organization, and I think weve tried for the last few years to be really clear about the challenges of running a grassroots organization. So when the Trump administration took office and started talking about making changes to the NEA, we started talking about that publicly, Fowler said. And I think this is just another moment of reaching out to our network, trying to let other small arts organizations know whats going on and see how were navigating it, trying to build solidarity among pure organizations, but also let our community know whats happening, because at the end of the year, we will have to pull back programs or change things in operations.

To us, transparency is pretty important, Hawkins added. I think the other part of that, too, for us, is this (grant cutting) is intentionally designed to scare, overwhelm and make folks feel like they are completely disempowered. Sharing information, being above board, and really clear about what were going through, I think, other folks can see, who might be going through the same thing. I think its a solidarity-building moment in a really tough time.

Studio Two Three is one of hundreds of nonprofit organizations nationwide to lose their NEA funding since May 2. According to a document shared by nonprofits, more than 200 organizations have seen more than $6 million in funding revoked this month. These nonprofits include theater programs, dance- and music-centered organizations and literary arts programs such as The Paris Review, The Oxford American and McSweeneys Literary Arts Fund.

Fowler said next steps are to appeal the decision.

And then I think were sitting on it. Were going to talk as a team this week and look at the budget and figure out what we need to do, she said. After our last grant was cut, we held a huge prom, Bad Prom, and had about 350 or 400 people come to a big dance party and raised $22,000 in one night. And so I think we might be having a lot of dance parties.

Dancing our anger out, Hawkins added.
Wade Scott Walters died in a suicide watch cell in a Prince George County federal prison.

His death, in precisely the type of cell where a prisoner should be keenly observed, caused an inquest within the Bureau of Prisons.

According to a video described by prosecutors, Walters, a vulnerable adult who could not speak for himself, banged his body against the walls of his cell at least 23 times. His cause of death was ultimately ruled to be a broken skull.

Federal prosecutors pursued criminal charges against a handful of staff involved. On Wednesday, Shronda Covington, a 16-year-veteran of FCI Petersburg, was handed her punishment for her role in Walters death.

Covington, 49, was given a one-year federal prison sentence, in addition to a year of house arrest and three years supervised release. Walters family looked on via conference call from Iowa, but asked not to make any statements on the record.

The sentencing decision revived a bitter fight over culpability for the bizarre death. Covington was last at the prison 22 hours before Walters died, and at least 12 prison employees, including three medical staff members, interacted with the prisoner in the interim. When Walters died, Covington was off-duty at her house in Chesterfield.

Still, prosecutors have argued she bore responsibility.

Defendant Covington was the first person who could have put a stop to this, argued U.S. Attorney Kathryn Gilbert. The scale of Defendant Covingtons deliberate negligence is just staggering.

Her lawyers have made clear they believe the entirety of her prosecution  from her guilty verdict to her sentencing on Wednesday  represents a miscarriage of justice. Her lawyers said prosecutors immunized a number of prison staff who were actually on duty while Walters was hurting himself.

Her lawyers, both former federal prosecutors for the Eastern District of Virginia, say they remain baffled by the decision to prosecute Covington. They believe she is being made to take the fall for Walters death.

They basically made Ms. Covington the scapegoat for the entire institution, said Melissa OBoyle. The rest of the institution apparently gets a pass. Nothing. No consequences at all for any of these individuals. Three of them still work there.

Prosecutors have charged at least three other individuals involved in the case. One employee died by suicide after receiving a letter from prosecutors. Tonya Farley, the prisons nurse, will be sentenced on May 8. And a fourth, former Lt. Michael Anderson, pled guilty and received a three-year sentence in 2023.

In December, a jury found Covington wasnt guilty of Walters death. However, the jury did find that she was guilty of negligence contributing to his injury and of making a false statement to an investigator. Wednesdays sentencing proceeded on those charges.

But prosecutors with the Department of Justices Civil Rights division aimed to throw the book at Covington. A trio of prosecutors for the office argued for a 10-year maximum sentence for Covington, which they calculated by using a sentencing strategy called cross-referencing.

Covington should still be penalized as if she had committed manslaughter, they argued, because the manslaughter overlapped with her negligence.

OBoyle and Fernando Groene  Covingtons defense team  argued against the strategy all morning. OBoyle called the move a miscarriage of justice and a violation of the 5th and 6th amendments of the Constitution.

What the government is asking you to do is ignore that verdict entirely, argued OBoyle. They are asking you to basically gamble with Ms. Covingtons life.

Covington gave her own statement, saying that she never would have imagined her career would end in a mans death.

Knowing that my institution has failed Mr. Walters is something I will have to bear for the rest of my life, said Covington, who asked for mercy for her colleague, Farley.

The case was heard by U.S. District Judge Roderick Young. Young denied the request to cross-reference from prosecutors, then issued a sentence of just a year.

Still, he remonstrated Covington at the conclusion of proceedings. His criticism, he explained, was based on testimony heard at trial: that Covington had been warned several times about Walters and yet made no visit to his cell.

You had a leadership position at the Bureau of Prisons. You had an obligation to check on him, and you didnt. You had some responsibility, said Young. There was a chain of events and you were a part of that chain.

Covington was given a month to report to a U.S. Marshal to begin her sentence. Outside of the courtroom, Covingtons cousin, Crystal Fraser, said she thought the ruling was a travesty.

In a statement, Groene called the decision a travesty of justice, considering Covington had left the Petersburg facility 24 hours before Walters had any injuries.

But the same government allows the five male officers who watched the victim crash and fall 23 times while he cracked his skull  and who offered no assistance  to keep their jobs and walk free, said Groene.

Groene said they intend to appeal the sentencing decision.
You first have to know what it is to be human before you can understand the unique value of uniting for a lifelong adventure.

In 2014, Anthony Esolen published Defending Marriage, responding to the effort to redefine marriage to include same-sex couples. In it, he argues that the fight over redefining marriage was lost long before this specific policy battle, when we began to lose sight of marriage as a permanent, exclusive, fruitful bond between husband and wife. Conn Carrolls recent book Sex and the Citizen: How the Assault on Marriage Is Destroying Democracy, published 10 years after Esolens, serves as a helpful reminder of why social conservatives lost those fights and why we should continue to care about how American society understands marriage.

Carrolls book is useful as a standalone resource, especially for those in the policy or legal world who wish to understand why bolstering marriage would benefit us all. His thorough historical accounts and presentations of social science research make that argument quite compellingly. He also offers plenty of suggestions for policy specifics, including a host of ways to encourage marriage and childbearing. One particularly useful element of the book is its explanation of policies that explicitly disincentivize or penalize marriage.

Another highlight is the chapter The Assault on Marriage, in which Carroll explores the origins of what we typically call the Sexual Revolution, though he presents it as one of several sexual revolutions throughout human history. This chapter offers a succinct reminder of how, for the thinkers and activists who brought about the Sexual Revolution, the abolition of marriage and family was an explicit goal, not an unintended consequence. Also striking is his chapter Married to the State, chronicling the many ways in which government programs have attempted to fill the void left by the disintegration of marriage and family.

Carroll also addresses some themes that most social scientists dodge. He references The Two-Parent Privilege, a recent book from University of Maryland economics professor Melissa S. Kearney, in which Kearney states: I am focused on marriage as an institution that is defined by two people combining and sharing resources in a long-term contract. If you are looking for a book about marriage and love, this is not that book.

He deems Kearneys choice understandable given her liberal audience. Many of [her readers] are not ready to hear explanations for why some cultural norms are better than others, about why human desires for physical and emotional intimacy are best channeled through monogamous marriage, he writes. But this book is ready to have that discussion. And he does manage to offer a fairly compelling pro-marriage argument on those terms.

Even so, the answers to some of the questions he raises throughout the book remain outside the scope of his project. For instance, the data he cites do point in a pro-marriage direction, establishing important points such as that divorce is typically harmful to children and that fatherlessness contributes to social decline. But there are limits both to what data can demonstrate and how persuasive arguments based on social science and evolutionary biology can be.

Anyone familiar with books such as Sex and the Citizen knows that for every study pointing in one direction, there are bound to be studies substantiating precisely the opposite claim. Of course, this is not to say that we cant survey the available statistics and find them pointing in the general direction of a conclusion; often they do, and often quite convincingly. But readers set on predetermined conclusions can always find numbers to back up their preferred viewpoint, or at least reason enough to ignore numbers to the contrary.

A more comprehensive argument for marriage would present relevant social science data and human history while also delving into the first principles that undergird this debate. What exactly is marriage, and what is it for? Is it merely a socially constructed guardrail meant to mitigate the risks of unfettered sexual activity? Should we see it as something more like the soulmate model, designed to provide for the emotional, psychological, and physical satisfaction of any two (or more) partners for only as long as the parties remain fulfilled? Or is it something greater?

Its understandable that weve lost sight of the need to define marriage on a more fundamental level than its social or historical use. In large part, this is the result of no longer believing that there is such a thing as human nature or that we are creatures at all. Instead, we view ourselves as self-created, with a nature that is infinitely malleable. With this understanding, marriage is something we create for ourselves rather than an institution with a certain intrinsic form connected to the type of beings we are.

If we understand human nature as given, and especially if we recognize that we were created in the image of God, we can see how marriage is something more fundamental and not entirely man-made. Understanding marriage as a comprehensive union of one man and one woman ordered to family life a bond meant to be permanent (i.e., lifelong), exclusive, and fruitfulpresupposes a particular understanding of what human beings are by our very nature.

As Esolen argues in Defending Marriage, social conservatives lost the fight over redefining marriage a decade ago because we lost the fight over what marriage is decades before that. A shift toward acceptance of no-fault divorce and widespread use of contraception enshrined a view of marriage as a contract, terminable if either party ceases to find it satisfying and oriented toward the individual satisfaction of the spouses.

It should come as little surprise, then, that marriage as redefined over the decades no longer seems especially appealing or even noteworthy, and that marriage rates are correspondingly on the decline. As Carroll points out, The proportion of women who have ever cohabitated has nearly doubled over the past twenty-five years, rising to the point that the number of adults who have ever cohabitated is now higher than the number who have ever been married. There is little impetus to get married if marriage is just a semipermanent contract, nothing more than cohabitation with a big party and some legal window dressing.

Marriage is no longer seen as a lifelong adventure, difficult but worth the struggle; its something more like a temporary venue for extracting satisfaction from another person for as long as it can be managed. As the partners exchange wedding vows, they eyeball the exit sign on the back walland note how the impersonal workplace term, spouse, has replaced the deeply evocative husband and wife.

Watching as those around us search for meaning, it is clear that most Americans no longer believe in the possibility of lifelong love, defined by mutual self-sacrifice through the many peaks and valleys of life. Marriage involves suffering because of human frailty, to be sure, but it calls us to something more meaningful than viewing other people as a means of self-gratification. Treating marriage as the context for persistent self-gift is difficult but ultimately far more fulfilling, as it calls us to the task of growing in virtue through self-denial and real love, defined not as fleeting emotional pleasure but as a choice to act for the good of the other.

Those of us who understand this should consider how we might become more comfortable making a case for marriage in these terms. Carrolls book serves an important purpose by helping readers consider the value of marriage, in both social and individual terms. His suggestions for policy improvements may help nudge more Americans in the direction of marriage. But ultimately, we need a cultural revival based on a recovery of what marriage and sex are for based on a true understanding of who human beings are.
The excitement in Rome is palpable about whos papabile as the historic conclave that will elect the 267th successor to Peter gets underway. A first fumata nera (black smoke) has blown barely visible at twilight above the Sistine Chapel, ensuring long nights of ongoing debate at the many restaurants immediately adjacent to the Vatican.

The last two weeks of an orphaned Roman Catholic Church have been met with mixed feelings: of shock vs. I-told-you-sos; mourning vs. defaming; secret conspiring vs. public networking; timid speculations vs. bold predictions. Of course, there were the-show-must-go-on vs. quickly canceled-2025 Jubilee and other big tent events as a few hundred thousand youth descended disappointedly onto Romenot for the Carlo Acutis canonization but for an all-night papal wake and camp-out with another 150,000200,000 (no one really counted) who flocked en masse to St. Peters and the surrounding Vatican area for the funeral rite.

Papal pundits have been on overdrive, and international news networks are cashing in on 24-hour news cycles during the sede vacante period, with their ad hoc panoramic studios overlooking the Square that Bernini Built. This is much more than just an Olympic moment for the media. For some, its a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to steer the gaze of the worlds eight billion toward Rome, Caput Mundi.

If the pope were not the greatest soft power, leader of the Church Universal, and successor of the Apostle Peter whom Christ loved as his very first vicar, all would be different. But these three factors are facts, and they renew Rome as the center of global intrigue every few decades during an interregnum and pending conclave.

Hegelian Tensions

At play are several tensions, a quasi-Hegelian dialectic of thesis and antithesis. Will there be a resulting synthesis? Was the Pope of the Peripheries and Mercy a real change in paradigm and inspired by the Paraclete inside the Sistine Chapel? Will the cardinals of 2025 again be looking to a diocese in some distant galaxy, far, far away from the Curia and Central Europe? Or has the tolerance and/or fascination for the unknown and unchartered territory proved a one-time exception? Should we, therefore, expect a classic man of the Roman Curia and of Italian popularity? Or will it be a synthesis of the two?

The former might mean a Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, or Cardinal Fernando Filoni. All three are classic Italian curial heavy hitters: a Secretary of State, an exSecretary of Pope Franciss Cabinet of Cardinals/Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, and a former Prefect of Propaganda Fide, respectively.

A synthesis candidate could mean a previous Vatican outsider but current insider with an impressive resume: Cardinal Tarcisio Isao Kikuchi from Tokyo , recently appointed president of Caritas Internationalis, or Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, the Filipino doppelganger of Francis, successor of Filoni at Propaganda Fide and predecessor of Kikuchi at Caritas.

But the real synthesis just might be Cardinal Peter Turkson: a longtime insider; a man who spans three papacies that favored him as a key archbishop in Cape Coast, Ghana; 16 uninterrupted years (200925) in the Roman Curia as former president of the Pontifical Council of Justice and Peace; as former prefect of the curial merger known as the Pontifical Dicastery for Integral Human Development; and now in a blessed position as chancellor of the two Pontifical Academies of Sciences and of Social Sciences. The affable, intelligent, and loved-by-all Turkson, excellent preacher and sometimes soft-spoken/will-not-rock-the-barque prelate, seems to make the most dialectical sense. Plus, everyone is saying it is Africas moment. It could be the whispering of Holy Spirit.

Peter the Roman

I am not alone: Many knees are knocking as regards the St. Malachy Prophecy, one of the greatest X factors in the conclave. In brief, St. Malachy, a 12th-century archbishop and papal legate from Ireland, supposedly predicted 112 popes with short enigmatic phrases associated with their papacies or person. Peter the Roman, if elected, will not come from the End of the World. He will be the End of the World. If you dont believe me, read the New York Post:

Saint Malachy is credited with creating the Prophecy of the Popes, writing 112 short, mysterious phrases about the papal progression after he received a vision.  According to the final entry surrounding Peter the Roman, the last pope  In the final persecution  there will reign Peter the Roman, who will feed his flock amid many tribulations, after which the seven-hilled city will be destroyed and the dreadful Judge will judge the people. The End, the last passage reads.

Lets find out which Peters there are. The clear, first-name candidates are Pietro Parolin (Italy), Peter Erdo (Hungary), Peter Turkson (Ghana), Peter Ebere Okpaleke (Nigeria), and Pierre Nguyen Van Nhon (Vietnam).

Secondary eligibility would be given to at least a middle name or hyphenated part of the first name: Jean-Pierre Ricard (France), Jean-Pierre Kutwa (Ivory Coast), Pierbattista Pizzaballa (Jerusalem), Timothy Peter Joseph Radcliffe (England), or Odilo Pedro Scherer (Brazil). Of these, Pierbattista Pizzaballa is the clear front-runner. The crowds cheered and sung off their beloved Latin Patriarch in Jerusalem as he departed the Holy Land, sensing he may not return. He speaks all the languages and has all the diplomatic and charismatic skills. Conservatives mostly adore him, too, while liberals respect his character and handling of his office in a most tense part of the world so dear to Francis and the subject of his last Message for World Peace during his Easter Urbi et Orbi.

Third eligibility goes to last names associated with Peter: Christophe Pierre (France).

The major problema technical oneis that that 112th and last pope is counted as Francis. That means the conclave will elect  no one?

Francis certainly ruled over many worldwide tribulationsthe COVID-19 pandemic, for starters, that killed or nearly killed millions. Then there have been wars in the Holy Land and Ukraine-Russia, as well as nuclear threats from North Korea and Chinas potential axis with Russia to rule all of Eurasia and smash the American superpower.

However (a big however): The last time I counted, all seven hills are still standing and have not been set ablaze or destroyed, like the hills of Los Angeles. And Francis did manage to feed his flock, counting many gracious meals at no cost to countless homeless residents of Tentopoli in and around St. Peters Colonnades. Their tribulations, in a disastrous Italian economy, are none too few. This is shoehorning the prophecy, with some nervous levity, if only one shoe seems to fit, then lets go for it. No one wants the real Peter the Roman to stand up on the Loggia wither today, May 8, or even May 9, 2025, considering the conclave should be over in one to three days.

Any if there really has to be a Peter, then in my judgment the title goes to Peter Turkson, but owing more to a Hegelian middle position, a papal synthesis whom both conservatives and liberals can admire or tolerate, in addition to computing acceptable data-trends for shifting tendencies to Africa, where the Catholic Church is vibrant and lionhearted.

A Francis II?

Indeed, the Francis consistories have resulting in stacking the deck of Cards (forgive the pun) in favor of a Francis-like Pope 267. Dont forget that, in this 2025 conclave, the Spirit of Francis will be flapping wings alongside the Holy Spirit, having elevated during his pontificate 108 of 133 electors. This amounts to 81% of red hats voting as of today, when the Sistine Lock-In commenced.

This was obviously Franciss earthly strategy, which could well result in a continuation of his pontifical style and agenda. Francis II would surely be Louis Antonio Tagle, the Filipino Francis. There are also his right- and left-hand men in Cardinal Pietro Parolin, dutiful and trustworthy secretary of state, and Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, his former secretary of the Cabinet of Cardinals. And both seem to be ideologically aligned with Francis, including on such hot topics as China, corruption, and various homosexual issues inside the Church.

There are many others who could be a Francis II, but these two seem to be the front-runners. Yet I do not believe there will be the same chance of Francis continuity as was achieved between John Paul II and the brains behind his pontificate, Benedict XVI , in the 2005 conclave, with all but two electors being rubberstamped at JPII Consistories (113/115virtually 98%of electors were elevated by the Polish pope).

Grandpapa: The Grand Father 80+ Pope

When we hear anuncio vobis gaudium magnum; habemus papam, it is not the 200,000-plus gathered masses who will have trouble hearing. Rather, it might be the newly elected pope himself! No kidding. Rules allow for any living cardinal to be elected, even if not eligible to vote in the actual conclave. The cutoff for voting is the 80th birthday.

An elderly pope, a grandpapa (to fuse the Italian and English for grandfather pope), is indeed possible and perhaps wanted. Even Bishop Robert Barron, perhaps the brightest lamp in the American episcopate, said he wouldnt mind a quiet papacy. I think this means a much older pope with a less young-minded disrupter mentality on the throne. Even if 80 is the new 70!

I have heard many other pundits express the same concern. At least a short, unimpressive, and ultimately destressing, tranquillo, reign will enable the cardinals to regroup, gather some calm, and have a real rethink about what a pope can and cannot do, perhaps setting an age limit for the papacy, and the creation of a formal pope emeritus position, which Benedict XVI self-created and managed well in his silence and prayer.

The leading candidates for the grandpapa are definitely in this order: Cardinal Ladaria Ferrer (exPrefect of the Congregation of Doctrine of the Faith, and this despite being another Jesuit); Cardinal Sean Patrick OMalley (archbishop emeritus of Boston and former leader in the Vaticans committee to eliminate priestly sexual abuse); Cardinal Mauro Piacenza (exMajor Penitentiary of the Apostolic Penitentiary); and Cardinal Oswald Gracias (archbishop of Bombay, whom I particularly admire for his brilliance, charm, and able administration but perhaps less well-known).

This is a very unlikely scenario and might even amount to a refusal by the elected grandpapa, or an acceptanceand then immediate retirement in protest.

An American Pope?

Again, Bishop Barron in his EWTN interview makes some sense in declaring that the world is not ready for an American pope until the United States is no longer a superpower. (Side note: In any event, he definitely wouldnt be a quiet one, as Americans are, in general, loud, experimental, and opinionated.) Barron rightly assumes that too much influence would be found under the American papal cassock.

Nonetheless, anything is possible, and Barrons first prerequisite is a prelate who unabashedly loves the Church and the gospel. This is none other than Cardinal Timothy Dolan, whose many virtues include being loved by left and right, Republicans and Democrats, but without being a people-pleaser. He not only has a gift of the gab but is a courageous and audacious administrator, as former rector of the Pontifical North American College and current archbishop of New York, both of which are no easy tasks.

Other candidates are more ideological and left-aligned and will not have a good consensus: Cardinals McElroy, Tobin, Gregory, and Cupich. The same goes for Cardinal Burke, who finds himself on the other end of the spectrum in his deeply admired, courageous conservatism and authentic love of tradition. None of these five cardinals, right or left, could gather enough supporting ballots.

The other long shot (perhaps not-so-long-shot) is Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, the American Augustinian (read: super disciplined and serious). He is more than capable of cleaning up some messes Francis had encouraged inside and outside the Curia. More than anything else, he knows what makes for the right stuff of a good bishop, even the Bishop of Rome, as he is currently the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops. Lets not forget that his impressive resume includes his continuing to serve as the president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America; his trilingual capacity in English, Spanish, and Italian; he was bishop of Chiclayo (Peru) for eight years (201523), and was even prior general of the Augustinians (200113); and is as affable as Cardinal Dolan, charming the socks off his sheep and clergy under his leadership.

Postscript: There is also the beloved Cardinal James Harvey, retired senior Vatican official as former Prefect of the Papal Household, who had a special set of eyes and ears close to the Holy Father and was a genuinely helpful and generous liaison between Americans and things Vatican. He is now the archpriest of the Papal Basilica of St. Pauls Outside the Walls, a splendid retirement post and a beautiful way to sunset a storied career in Rome. It is very unlikely he will be elected, even if wildly popular with American conservative Catholics who gathered in Rome last week to celebrate his Golden Jubilee of Priesthood, being of the ordination class of 1975.

Last Word: One of the Three Peters

Let us merely pray that the next pope is filled with our Lord Jesuss infinite love for his Church on earth. But he must have more than great pietyhint, hint: a Pius XIII, but definitely not of the same impious ilk of that antipope of the same title, Lucian Pulvermacher. He will need also to be upskilled in many practical, earthly ways; he must be technically savvy; and he must possess a political sway and swagger to confront the World War-ish, Armageddon-felt tensions that threaten world peace.

This is why some point to two Peters: Parolin and Turkson. The first is an erudite, albeit controversial diplomat; the second is one of the most knowledgeable political and economic firebrands in the Curia, but with a peace-loving heart and a sharp social-justice-warrior mindset.

An antithesis, rather than a synthesis, might be a third Peter and a true conservative favorite: Cardinal Peter Erdo, archbishop of Esztergom-Budapesta man of law, order, and doctrinal orthodoxy. Miracles do happen!

If I were to place a bet, one of these three Peters will be standing atop the loggia when the Habemus papam! is proclaimed to the world.
Rundown homes dotting Roanoke and a wooded slope beside Orange Avenue Northwest are two areas where city officials aim to ease the housing shortage.

City staffers are proposing a new Blighted & Derelict Structures Program to disincentivize the presence of janky and vacant homes in Roanoke. Planning Director Jillian Papa briefed the city council during its meeting Monday.

We are a city, were landlocked, Papa said. In order for us to grow, our growth depends on efficient use of our remaining land.

Residents have been vocal about wanting to see various properties revitalized, she said. In addition, the city is searching for methods to relieve a housing shortage thats been measured in thousands of units.

Take a look through almost any neighborhood to find examples of unmaintained or otherwise abandoned houses. Councilman Phazhon Nash said he knows where to find one.

I got a derelict property on my street, Nash said. On the corner.

Changes in state law now enable the city to charge higher tax rates on properties that are considered blighted or derelict, said Deputy City Attorney David Collins.

Blighted property, under state code, is generally defined as property that poses a threat to the safety, health or welfare of the public due to the condition of the property being in a deteriorated or dilapidated state, Collins said.

Properties are considered derelict if theyve been vacant, boarded up, and disconnected from utilities for at least six months, he said. A new law enabling the city to reclaim abandoned land goes into effect July 1.

This legislation essentially allows localities the opportunity to acquire abandoned property and convey it to a third party, a developer, to restore the property, Collins said. The property has to be vacant for a five-year period, and the taxes have to be delinquent, and the property has to be declared derelict or blighted.

Blighted properties could be taxed at a 5% premium, and derelict properties could be taxed at 10% more than the current rate of $1.22 per $100 in assessed value, said Real Estate Valuation Director Kelvin Bratton.

Real estate valuation will maintain the list and we will be monitoring and reevaluating it on an ongoing basis, Bratton said. You can be removed from classification upon compliance.

The code enforcement division of city planning would work with Brattons office to declare properties as derelict or blighted, with an appeal process for landowners, he said. Its a plan in the making, but developed enough that staff approached the city council for feedback.

We want to make sure that we are addressing those that are chronically blighted or derelict, Bratton said. Well have the program more defined as we get your blessing.

City Manager Valmarie Turner said it would be a valuable tool. City Attorney Tim Spencer said it would allow creation of a database to track the status of blighted properties.

Councilman Peter Volosin, who is a Realtor, voiced support.

This is a huge tool for helping us with affordable housing, Volosin said. Its something that citizens have wanted, and we have wanted for quite some time.

Councilwoman Evelyn Powers, formerly the city treasurer, said taxpayers often sent her photos of boarded-up properties.

People would say, Im paying my taxes, why do I have to look at this time after time? Powers said.

Mayor Joe Cobb said neighborhoods will be excited about the program.

Another big part of this is the safety aspect, Cobb said. These properties, when they sit idle, theyre used for squatting and other things that endanger public safety, potentially.

Nash said the program would also apply to commercial properties.

Thats another big factor for providing neighborhoods and communities with resources, Nash said. I think its very beneficial for the village centers that wed like to see more of throughout our city.

Its not the only housing opportunity the city council heard about Monday. A stretch of 70-plus lots on Cherry Hill could be used for new housing, said Tom Carr, the vice chair of Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority board.

The housing authority owns a section of the wooded, sloped land across Orange Avenue from Washington Park, online property records show.

The housing authority would like to dispose of those properties, Carr said. That presents an opportunity to work with the private sector to sell those properties and have attractive, appropriate housing developed on those sites.

New zoning rules enacted by the city council last year could enable a variety of housing types on that property, he said. But it would need to be rezoned by the city council for residential uses.

Thats an opportunity, Carr said. Not a problem.

Members of city council said to discuss it with the Gainsboro neighborhood association first.
Worlds cargo ships to pay more for dirty fuel under new rules

Posted on 7 May 2025 by Guest Author

This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Bob Henson

Alandmark policy crafted in April by members of the U.N.s International Maritime Organization, or IMO, will tax international shippers based on the carbon content of their fuels. The draft policy is due to be finalized in late 2025.

The agreement that emerged from the 83rd meeting of the IMOs Marine Environment Protection Committee was undeniably a compromise  critiqued by activists and oil-rich nations alike. Yet its also undeniably historic. As the organization put it, The IMO Net-zero Framework is the?first in the world to combine mandatory emissions limits and [greenhouse gas] pricing across an entire industry sector.

Key measures of the approved draft include:

A fee of $100 per metric ton on emissions surpassing a threshold that will ratchet up each year for carbon intensity (based on greenhouse gas emissions per mile and per unit of cargo capacity), with the fee rising to $380 per metric ton beyond a higher threshold.

A system that allows ships to earn carbon credits and trade them with other ships. Credits can be earned by using lower-emission fuel and/or contributing to a fund that will support low-carbon research, infrastructure, tech transfer, and capacity building, as well as help reduce harm to vulnerable states.

The IMOs overall emission reduction strategy, launched in 2018 and updated in 2023, envisions reducing fuel intensity by 40% by 2030 and reaching net-zero emissions from international shipping by around 2050.

Members of the International Maritime Organization assemble for the opening of the 83rd meeting of IMOs Marine Environment Protection Group on April 7, 2025, in London, England. (Image credit: IMO/MEPG via Flickr, CC-BY-2.0)

Wrangling a first-ever agreement amid stark differences

A total of 63 IMO members voted for the new carbon-levy agreement and 16 against, with 24 abstaining. Those opposed included the United States, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Venezuela, the United Arab Emirates, and other major fossil-fuel producers, as reported by earth.org. Regardless of their votes, all 108 parties to a 1973 shipping pollution agreement known as MARPOL Annex VI  which together represent some 97% of the worlds merchant shipping fleet by tonnage  must adhere to any new agreements under it, including the carbon levy soon to be added.

The United States apparently pulled out of negotiations because of the redistributional aspects of the proposed IMO Net-Zero fund, according to the BBC. As reported by Reuters, a U.S. memo sent to ambassadors stated, The U.S. rejects any and all efforts to impose economic measures against its ships based on [greenhouse gas] emissions or fuel choice.

Although the United States had the second-largest amount of container port traffic of any nation on Earth in 2022  almost twice as much as any other country after China  nearly all of the carbon levies under the new agreement would be assessed by other nations. Thats because only about 0.5% of the worlds cargo by tonnage is delivered by U.S.-flagged ships, meaning those registered in the United States.

In the lead-up to negotiations, a group of small island states and allies pushed hard for a flat tax of $150 per ton of carbon-dioxide-equivalent emissions. Leaders from those vulnerable nations decried the eventual compromise draft as insufficient to meet the moment. They included Hilton Kendall, minister of transportation, communication, and information technology for the Marshall Islands.

We couldnt take home the outcome that was given to us as a take-or-leave option  with rich countries asking us to pay for their technological transition while leaving us behind, Kendall said in a joint statement from several island states. We were fighting not only for our countries economic interests, but also for the safety of our people and our homes.

Patching a hole left in the Paris Agreement

The voluntary nation-by-nation goals for emission reduction that are submitted every five years via the Paris Agreement dont include international shipping or international aviation. Both sectors, given their complex boundary-crossing natures, were explicitly excluded from the 2015 agreement.

International shipping and aviation each make up about 3% of the worlds annual human-produced carbon dioxide emissions. Though seemingly modest, both those percentages are rising over time. And large-scale shipping and aviation, with their reliance on hulking modes of transport that journey far from power sources, are more challenging to decarbonize than, for example, homes or vehicles, where low or net-zero carbon technologies already exist.

In 2022, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Changes Sixth Assessment Report said that some model scenarios show carbon dioxide emissions from transport, including road vehicles as well as trains, shipping, and aviation, could grow by anywhere from 16% to 50% by 2050. Already, shipping volumes have more than doubled since the 1970s.

The urgency of implementing measures for reducing emissions is considered to be high, considering the lifetime of vessels is typically 20 years, if not more, the report noted.

Peter Newman, a professor of sustainability at Australias Curtin University, was one of three coordinating lead authors for the transport chapter of the IPCC Working Group III report. In an email, Newman expressed concern about what the chapter referred to as minimal commitment to new technologies within the shipping and aviation sectors.

Most of the people I respect in the international transport space say that the IMO and ICAO [International Civil Aviation Organization] are doing as little as possible and are trying to make it look like they are doing a lot, Newman said. They have not been funding the kind of R&D that was done on land transport. I think they are not doing nearly enough to help avert a major global climate crisis.

More than 30 institutions that finance more than 80% of global shipping are signatories to the Poseidon Principles, which call for assessing and disclosing how closely the financial infrastructure of shipping is in line with adopted climate goals. The setting of a global levy on international shippings emissions is a historic event, said Poseidon Principles chair Michael Parker in a press statement. Acknowledging that the draft IMO agreement is disappointing to many, Parker added, it will set in process a framework and methodology that can be built upon.

The shipping sectors first binding emissions targets are laudable, but not enough to drive needed investments, said the nonprofit Global Maritime Forum in a statement. Uncertainties remain, as future revisions may be needed to ensure the zero-emission goals are met. National governments need to step up to bridge the cost difference between fossil and e-fuels, support the development of required infrastructure and fuel production, and ensure that more is done to promote the transition in the Global South.

How can shipping get more climate-friendly?

Traditional bunker fuel, the type used for most long-haul cargo shipping, is a dense, high-carbon form of oil. Over the last few years, the IMO has been clamping down on aerosol pollution from such fuels. In fact, tightened restrictions on sun-blocking sulfate emissions that went into effect in 2020 may have given a slight nudge to dramatic ocean warming observed in the last several years, especially in the North Atlantic.

The IMOs 2023 emission reduction strategy calls for zero- or near-zero greenhouse-gas emission technology, fuels, and/or energy sources to represent at least 5%, and ideally 10%, of the energy used by 2030 in international shipping.

Much research has gone into lower-carbon options for shipping fuel, including biofuel. But any large-scale ramp-up of biofuel could either put pressure on its existing users (such as motor vehicles that burn ethanol) or could trigger expansion of the vast monoculture farms that grow corn and other biofuel crops.

The other major research focus has been on ammonia, which can be produced from hydrogen and nitrogen and compressed into dense liquid form. Later this year, two parallel efforts in Denmark and Switzerland will launch and test the worlds first ammonia-powered oceangoing ships.

Since ammonia is a carbon-free substance that can be produced by renewable energy (making it green ammonia), ammonia-based shipping could be a close-to-net-zero process, apart from the relatively small amounts of pilot fuel required for ignition. However, liquefied ammonia is only about a third as dense as the marine gas now used for a small fraction of shipping, so storage and range would be a challenge  and complicated further by ammonias toxic and corrosive qualities. Catalytic converters would also be needed to capture the nitrogen oxides and nitrous oxides spewed out by ammonia-powered engines.

Theres still a huge cost gap between the fossil fuels and the zero-emission fuels and we need to close this gap, Refke Gunnewijk, who manages clean industry & transport at the Port of Rotterdam, told the BBC. So you need carrots and sticks and in shipping the stick is not that big yet to use sustainable fuels.

In the meantime, many ships are being retrofitted to use todays fuels more efficiently. Tweaks such as optimizing ship contours and using onboard wind and solar power to boost propulsion could decrease emissions by as much as 40%, the IPCC reported. In fact, the average carbon intensity of cargo ships has already dropped by 30% to 40% over the past 15 years, according to the IMO. Still, that hasnt been enough to outweigh the sheer increase in cargo volumes.

Theres also a major push to establish green shipping corridors, where the use of zero-emission ships could help generate attention and ambition. Along these lines, the Clydebank Declaration was launched at the 2021 U.N. climate summit in Glasgow, with Canada the most recent of the 27 signatories to date (including the United States). The declaration calls for six green shipping corridors to be established by 2025. One such proposed corridor would use green methanol fuel from renewable sources along a key route for shipping cars and trucks between South Korea and several European ports.

Jeff Masters contributed to this post.
Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily.

As Roman Catholic cardinals gather in Vatican City on Wednesday to select the next pope, on the other side of Europe another (much lengthier and, if you can believe it, even more secretive) process is underway to decide who will be the next archbishop of Canterbury, the highest-ranking bishop in the Church of England and the symbolic head of the global Anglican Communion, a worldwide family of churches that are historically connected to the Church of England. The communion is one of the largest Christian fellowships in the world, with around 85 million members across more than 165 countries.

The previous archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, announced his January 2025 resignation in November 2024, after an independent review, widely known as the Makin Report, found that he had failed to report the prolific child abuser John Smyth, who had committed some of his crimes in the course of his work for charities associated with the Anglican Church. And if this is all sounding vaguely reminiscent of similar demons haunting the Church of Rome, be assured that the similarities do not stop there.

Welbys resignation comes at a time of deep division in the Church of England and the wider Anglican Communion, division largely centered onyou guessed itissues of gender and sexuality. Because the Episcopal Church, the American province of the Anglican Communion, is widely known for its progressiveness, it is easy for Americans to forget that this is not necessarily reflected in the wider body. The Anglican Communion, and Anglicanism as a tradition, prides itself on its tolerance for disagreement and diversity, a legacy of the 16th-century Elizabethan Settlement, which transformed the divisive political (and romantic) project of Henry VIII into a unique theological tradition.

Advertisement

As a result of this legacy, Anglicanism continues to hold together, within one ecclesiastical body, High-Church Anglo-Catholics and worship-band evangelicals, left-wing progressives, and right-wing reactionaries. This cacophony of perspectives is less pronounced in certain provinces of the communion. For example, the Episcopal Church is much more theologically and politically uniform today than previously, after decades of infighting and a painful split. But in the Church of England, the Anglican Communions mother church, the full range of this diversity remains largely intact.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

This is in no small part because the Church of England is the only remaining established Anglican church. And it is the state religion. The king remains the churchs supreme governor, and the archbishops of Canterbury and York, as well as 26 diocesan bishops, hold seats in the House of Lords. This also means that every resident of England, Anglican or not, lives within the confines of a parish and should be able to worship in the parish church and present themself to that parish for life events such as baptism, marriage, a funeral. This right to worshiplike the broader allowance for diverse worship styles and theological viewsis one of the key foundations of the Elizabethan Settlement.

Advertisement

However, over the past 30 years, culture-war debates over the inclusion of women and LGBTQ+ people have tested this agreement, which quite literally brought an end to the first phase of the English Reformation. The first battle (arguably still ongoing) was over the inclusion of women in the ordained ministry. These tensions have been dealt with by deferring to local opinion (though not to everyones satisfaction). However, when the Rt. Rev. Gene Robinson was consecrated bishop of New Hampshire in 2003, the first openly gay person elevated to that ranking in the Episcopal Church and the Anglican Communion, not only did some American parishes break away from the Episcopal Church, forming the core of what is now the Anglican Church in North America, but the Episcopal Churchs membership in the Anglican Communion came under threat. And the Episcopal Church was temporarily suspended from the communion in 2016, when it began to allow same-sex couples to marry.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Although the Episcopal Church did, in the end, remain, the consecration of Robinson led directly to the creation of Global Anglican Future Conference, a gathering of conservative Anglican bishops aimed at limiting further progress on the inclusion of LGBTQ+ people within Anglican liturgical life. Even in 2022, at the most recent Lambeth Conference, the decennial gathering of Anglican bishops hosted by the archbishop of Canterbury, questions surrounding LGBTQ+ people dominated the debate. And, in what is undeniably not one of the shining moments of Christian hospitality, the then archbishop of Canterbury, Welby, invited the spouses of bishops in heterosexual marriages to attend the conference but did not invite the spouses of bishops in same-sex unions.

Advertisement

As in the case of the Catholic Church (and the United Methodist Church and beyond), the conflict has often been presented, particularly by conservatives, as a clash between the West and the global south, yet another instance of know-it-all Westerners attempting to impose their will, customs, and culture on the people of Africa, Asia, and Latin America. It is a charge that, given its implications of imperial cultural domination, has a particular sting when directed at the Englishfor obvious reasons.

Advertisement

And so, while the Church of England is technically as independent as any other province in the Anglican Communion, its internal debate over LGBTQ+ inclusion has been shaped by concerns about the long-term viability of the communion itself. Two key issues lie at the heart of the debate: whether clergy should be permitted to enter into same-sex marriages, and whether same-sex marriages or civil partnerships should receive any form of public blessingincluding marriage rites.

Advertisement

Advertisement

These questions are also complicated by the Church of Englands status as a state church. The Marriage (Same-Sex Couples) Act of 2013, which established marriage equality in the United Kingdom, specifically excluded religious institutions, including the Church of England, from having to perform same-sex marriages. It is an exception that stands in awkward tension with the centuries-old right to worship and arguably a raison detre for having a national church. The simple fact is that the Church of England is no longer a place where anyone in England can turn up to get married.

Advertisement

This is the situation the next archbishop of Canterbury will inherit. And he will be selected in a different manner from any of his predecessors. In 2023 the General Synod voted to change the composition of the Crown Nominations Commission (the body that will recommend candidates to King Charles) to include five new representatives, one from each region of the Anglican Communion. This development has raised fears among progressives that conservative forces could receive additional support and succeed in appointing an archbishop to lead the Church of England whose views are far outside the English mainstream. At the same time, conservatives have voiced concerns that a progressive archbishop, one who, say, greenlights same-sex marriage, could cause more conservative provinces to flee the communion altogether.

Advertisement

That is to say, the race for the next archbishop of Canterbury reflects the same divisions as faced by the Roman Catholic conclave, though put in much starker and more immediate terms. We will likely see the next pope step out on the balcony of St. Peters months before word comes from the king as to the final decision of who will lead the Church of England and the Anglican Communion. But the fact that these two global churches, who have not been in communion with each other since Henry VIII wanted a divorce in 1534, seem to be experiencing the same problem reveals a great deal about the state of religion and societyand has very little to do with same-sex couples or their relationships, at least not really. They are just the unlucky symbols of a much bigger, more metaphysical debate. (One might say the same for immigrants and refugees, though that is another conversation.)

Advertisement

We live in a moment of profound societal change, change that has put questions of identity, belonging, and community at the forefront of our public conversations and personal struggles. Religious institutions, once central to explaining the natural world and legitimizing political power, have long since lost that authority. For a time, they have clung to the role of moral arbitrator and communal glue, but even that, increasingly, is slipping away. We cannot agree on what our lives and relationships should look like and mean in this brave new world, and our churches dont seem to have any good answers. And so, just as we are fracturing our governments, schools, and families over questions of who we are and how we belong, we are doing the same to our churchesnot because they have the answers, but because they no longer do. This is the stark reality for the next bishops of Rome and Canterburywhoever they may be.
One-hundred-fifteen Roman Catholic cardinals locked themselves up in the Vatican today to select the churchs next pope. In pictures of the cardinals, they were shown wearing a variety of unusual hats. How do cardinals choose their hats?



To suit the occasion, to represent their homeland, or, sometimes, to make a personal statement. Cardinals primarily wear one of three different types. The most basic hat is a skullcap called the zucchetto (pl. zucchetti), which is a simple round hat that looks like a beanie or yarmulke. Next is the collapsible biretta, a taller, square-ridged cap with three peaks on top. There are certain times when its customary to put on the biretta, such as when entering and leaving church for Mass, but its often just personal preference. Cardinals wear both of these hats in red, which symbolizes how each cardinal should be willing to spill his blood for the church. (The zucchetto is actually worn beneath the biretta.) Some cardinals also wear regional variations on the hat, such as the Spanish style, which features four peaks instead of three. On special occasions, such as when preparing to elect the next leader of their church, they may also wear a mitre, which is a tall and usually white pointed hat. The mitre is the same style of cap commonly worn by the pope, and it comes in three different styles with varying degrees of ornamentation, according to the occasion.

Cardinals are also strongly associated with the wide-brimmed galero (pl. galeri), which resembles a cowboy hat but with two long sets of tassels. The galero was once the signature hat of the cardinal. The lowering of the galero was the highlight of the investiture ceremony that inducted new cardinals, according to the New York Times. But the Catholic Church, like so many people, found the 1960s to be a time of radical change in fashions. In 1967, Pope Paul VI began to crown cardinals by bestowing birettas instead of galeri, in a move toward humbler headwear, and in 1969 he abolished those hats altogether. Despite the papal decree, there are some who would like to keep the galero alive, however. American cardinal Raymond Burke was spotted apparently trying to bring back the vintage hat, and cardinals may still feature it in their coats of arms.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Pope Paul VI isnt the only one to leave his stamp on clerical fashion. Whereas other clergymen follow fairly constricting guidelines when it comes to their ceremonial garbcardinals wear red, bishops wear purple, and priests wear blackpopes are free to choose different colors and start their own trends. Few have taken advantage of this freedom like the recently retired Pope Benedict XVI, who was known for wearing a wide variety of headwear. For example, Benedict was known to sport a saturno, a wide-brimmed hat similar to the galero. He was also seen venturing out in a camauro, which looks almost exactly like a Santa hat. Even when it came to the traditional mitre, Benedict generally chose hats taller than those worn by his predecessor, who chose to keep things simple. For his sartorial efforts, the Chicago Tribune called Benedict the best dressed pontiff ever!

Advertisement

Popes also used to wear the papal tiara, or the triregnum. However, this hat was similarly outmoded by Pope Paul VI, who in November 1964 announced that he was donating his tiara to the poor. His successor, Pope John Paul I, declined to wear the tiara, and after the end of his 33-day reign, Pope John Paul II followed his predecessors lead. The tiara was considered, wrongly, to be a symbol of the temporal power of the Popes, he explained.

Men of the cloth can also change Vatican fashions from the ground up. Ahead of the changes in Vatican headwear that would come later in the 60s, some prelates petitioned to be able to wear the zucchetto instead of the stiffer biretta. After the cappa magna, a 30-foot train of silk that was carried behind the cardinal, was abolished in 1952, a group of Roman cardinals petitioned for its return. Pope John XXIII allowed it, saying, A bit of vanity is good for the Church.

Got a question about todays news? Ask the Explainer.
Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily.

On Tuesday, the Supreme Court cleared the way for President Donald Trump to purge transgender people from the military in a brief, unsigned order that did not bother to provide any reasoning. All three liberals dissented. With this decision, the Trump administration may now enforce a sweeping ban on military service, prohibiting the enlistment of transgender people and expelling those who are currently serving. The forced removal of these service memberswho joined the military on the good-faith belief that the U.S. government welcomed their servicewill mark one of the most sweeping acts of government-imposed bigotry in modern times. And the Supreme Courts shameful, unexplained approval of the policy is certain to weaken the armed forces by pushing out thousands serving their nation honorably.

Tuesdays order was not a surprise: Trump also attempted to outlaw transgender military service in his first term, and SCOTUS greenlit the prohibition by a 54 vote. The first-term ban, however, was a very different beast: It exempted current troops, allowing them to continue their service while receiving gender-affirming care. The policy as enacted therefore functioned as a ban on the enlistment of transgender people rather than an assault on those already serving. President Joe Biden promptly repealed the entire ban, but Trump reimposed and expanded it when he returned to office. This time, the prohibition covers all service members, not just potential enlistees. It cuts off their access to gender-affirming care. And it orders them to voluntarily separate from the military or face involuntary separationa stain on their record that could deny them veterans benefits.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Trumps first-term policy was cloaked in pretext, carefully crafted to avoid evincing overt contempt for trans people. His new policy, formally issued by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, does not bother with such niceties. It states that being transgender is inconsistent with an honorable, truthful, and disciplined lifestyle, even in ones personal life, and that trans identity is a falsehood that is not consistent with the humility and selflessness required of a service member. As U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes wrote when blocking the policy, this language is soaked in animus and unabashedly demeaning, an unadulterated expression of bigotry that stigmatizes transgender persons as inherently unfit. And the Supreme Court has consistently held that laws motivated by animus, or a bare desire to harm a politically unpopular group, are unconstitutional. Reyes is a Biden appointee. But U.S. District Judge Benjamin Settle, a George W. Bush appointee, also found the policy to be an unconstitutional affront to equal protection.

Advertisement

Now the high court has frozen Settles injunction, paving the way for Trump to implement the ban. (An appeals court already halted Reyes separate order.) It is especially galling that SCOTUS did not explain its rationale, given that Settles opinionnow on iceconstituted a diligent, top-to-bottom evisceration of the bans justifications; it deserved more than an unreasoned brush-off from the justices. For instance, the government asserted that transgender people drain resources through expensive health care; Settle noted that these costs are actually a negligible fraction of the military budget. Meanwhile, the cost of training replacements for discharged troops will reach an estimated $100 billion: more than 100 times greater than the cost to provide transition-related healthcare.

Related From Slate Trump Just Issued an Executive Order Aimed at Decimating the Civil Rights Act of 1964 Read More

Nor is there any proof, as the government claims, that trans service members undermine military readiness. To the contrary, Settle wrote, there is extensive evidence from a variety of service member declarants that these past four years of open transgender service helped, rather than hurt, unit cohesion, good order, and discipline. Extensive testimony by military officials themselves demonstrates that allowing transgender service fosters openness and trust among team members, thereby enhancing unit cohesion. The government also asserted that the need for gender-affirming care makes trans troops less deployable, but Settle pointed to persuasive data showing that there have not been deployability concerns for these individuals. That evidence is not speculative: Transgender people have now been serving openly in the military for a decadeat higher rates than the cisgender populationand shown great bravery in uniform. If the problems alleged by the government existed, there would be documentation to support them. Such proof is entirely absent from the record.

Advertisement

Advertisement

For that reason, Settle concluded that the administrations ban flunks any level of judicial review. The policy, he wrote, likely discriminates on the basis of sexpenalizing service members for failure to conform to their sex assigned at birthtriggering heightened scrutiny that the governments flimsy excuses cannot satisfy. But even if he applied rational basis review out of deference to military judgment, the ban would remain unconstitutionally irrational. Settle also found that the policy violates due process by punishing trans troops for conduct the government previously approved, offending basic notions of fairness. It is difficult to quibble with any of these conclusions, each of which is rooted in the basic reality that there is no evidence to support the governments claims. This policy is rooted in obvious hostility toward a vulnerable minority; its justifications are nothing more than post hoc window dressing.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

So why did the Supreme Court let it take effect anyway? The most generous answer is that the conservative justices demand sweeping deference to the commander in chief, even when he acts out of undisguised bigotry. Perhaps their vision of a unitary executive includes a president who can discharge entire classes of minorities from the militarya view that would also authorize the return of racial segregation in the armed forces. (Hegseth has gone out of his way to purge racial diversity from the militarys top ranks.) These justices may also believe that the Constitution does not protect transgender people against sex-based discrimination, a position they previewed in recent arguments over bans on gender-affirming care.

Either way, before issuing an emergency order on the shadow docket, the court is supposed to consider not just the merits but the threat of irreparable harm to the parties. Here, transgender service members face the concrete threat of immediate harm. By contrast, the government was unable to put forth any plausible evidence that it is harmed by ongoing transgender service. SCOTUS ruled against the troops anyway. Their compelling interests were erased from the case.

Advertisement

Advertisement

As a result, thousands of transgender service members will be discharged from the military while litigation proceeds in the lower courts. People who volunteered to risk their lives for their country will be cruelly punished simply for who they are. People like Emily Shilling, the named plaintiff in this casea transgender woman who has served as a naval aviator for 19 years, flown more than 60 combat missions, logged 1,750 flight hours in Navy jets, and earned three Air Medals. The Navy has spent $20 million training her. Soon, she will be forced out of service entirely. If the Supreme Court was going to condone this self-defeating act of invidious discrimination, the least it could have done was explain why.
Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily.

From the start of this second term, it has been hard to predict how far the Trump administration will go in restricting abortion. There may be a temptation to take a clue from Mondays surprise decision by the Department of Justice to maintain its Biden-era position opposing a lawsuit that seeks to ban the abortion pill. Dont be fooled, though: Nothing has fundamentally changed. The case involves an ongoing war against mifepristone, a pill used in more than half of all abortions, that started in 2022. Last year, the Supreme Court held that the plaintiffs in the original case didnt have standing to sue. That didnt stop three conservative attorneys general from filing, in November, what they called an amended complaint in the same case, before the same Texas judge, Matthew Kacsmaryk. Ever since the 2024 presidential election, there were questions about what Donald Trump would do with the case. Would his administration defend mifepristone, or would the president give abortion opponents at least part of what they want?

On Monday, after months of delay, the administration finally filed its response in the case, Missouri v. Food and Drug Administration. Surprisingly, the brief asked that the case filed by the anti-abortion plaintiffs be dismissed. But its a mistake to read this as a sign that Trump will necessarily keep his word and let the states set abortion policy. Instead, the most likely scenario is that Trump doesnt want to be bullied into taking a position when he isnt ready, and that when it comes to limiting access to mifepristone, hed be happier letting the courts take the lead.

Advertisement

The war against mifepristone began as soon as Roe v. Wade was gone. Suing on behalf of a group of doctors called the Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, the Alliance Defending Freedom, a leading group in the conservative Christian legal movement, filed a suit arguing that the FDA had lacked the authority to approve mifepristone in 2000. The group also claimed that the FDA couldnt have approved telehealth access to the drug because the Comstock Act, a 19th-century obscenity law, made it a crime to mail any abortion-related drug or paraphernalia.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

The problem was, these plaintiffs didnt have standing. How bad was their standing argument? So bad that they lost every single conservative justice on the Supreme Court, even the author of the Dobbs decision, Justice Samuel Alito. That didnt stop the attorneys general of Missouri, Idaho, and Kansas from trying to keep the case alive. The AGs, apparently worried about the plaintiffs disastrous standing argument, had already intervened in the case; later, they tried to insert themselves as plaintiffs and focused more on the Comstock Act in their own court filings.

Advertisement

Ever since Trump has come back into office, his position on the case has been a source of mystery. On the campaign trail, Trump had vowed to let the states set their own abortion policy. Limiting access to mifepristone, or transforming the Comstock Act into a de facto ban, hardly lets the states go their own way. On the other hand, Trump has forged strong alliances with anti-abortion politicians and voters, who still expect him to take action on mifepristone, especially after multiple Trump nominees, including Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA Commissioner Martin Makary, vowed to study the drugs safetycode, anti-abortion leaders thought, for being open to new restrictions.

Advertisement

The administration had already asked for more time to clarify its position on mifepristone-related cases. And that time apparently bought Trump the opportunity to decide he still isnt ready to deal with the issue. In a brief filed Monday, the administration argued that the attorneys general had filed their suit in the wrong venue: Assuming the AGs could point to some injuries in their home states, what did that have to do with Amarillo, Texas? More ambitiously, the Trump administration argued that the attorneys general dont have standing to sue, period. Their injuries were speculative, or disconnected from FDA policy, or both.

Advertisement

Advertisement

These arguments make sense. Beyond the obvious fact that Kacsmaryk has the most reliable track record of siding with anti-abortion plaintiffs, there was never a plausible argument for these plaintiffs to be in Amarillo. And the states standing arguments arent convincing eitherthe most ridiculous involved the claim that the FDA was harming the states by lowering the rate of teen pregnancy.

Related From Slate Trump Just Issued an Executive Order Aimed at Decimating the Civil Rights Act of 1964 Read More

Missouri, Kansas, and Idaho may be making ridiculous assertions. But what does it mean that the Trump administration is pointing this out? Is it a sign that Trump will defend the status quo on mifepristone and keep his promise to leave the states alone when it comes to abortion?

Advertisement

Advertisement

Probably not. One of the most striking features of the brief is that it says nothing about the merits of the states arguments about mifepristone and the Comstock Act. Compare this with similar filings from the Biden administration, which went into painstaking detail about the Comstock Act and the FDAs authority.

Advertisement

None of this is missing from the Trump administrations brief by accident. Trump wants to leave himself room to maneuver on mifepristone. His problem with the attorneys general isnt necessarily that the two groups of Republicans are on different sides when it comes to the drug. It may simply be that Trump wants to control if, or when, he does something on the issue. He doesnt want to be pushed around by the anti-abortion movement or its allies in the states.

Theres another possibility tooone that Trump could have learned from the 2024 election. During his first term, the anti-abortion movement scored its biggest win in more than half a century, when the president was able to reshape the Supreme Court with three new appointments who would eventually be critical to overturning Roe v. Wade. And yet that factand the tremendous unpopularity of the courts decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organizationdidnt stop Trump from winning a second term. It seemed hed found a perfect formula: shifting blame to the courts, then claiming he wouldnt change the status quo on his own. Cases about mifepristone are already in the pipelinethe Missouri suit is just one example. If passing the buck to SCOTUS worked once before, Trump might be hoping he can do the same with abortion pills.

We dont know what will happen in this case, or others on mifepristone. The bottom line is that Trump isnt defending abortion pills. Hes defending his own power to control what happens to them. And as far as that goes, we all still have to wait and see.
Donald Trump won the presidency in part on promises to deport undocumented immigrants with criminal records. But his earliest executive orderstrying to undo birthright citizenship, suspending critical refugee programsmade clear he wants to attack legal immigrants, too. In our new series, Who Gets to Be American This Week?, well track the Trump administrations attempts to exclude an ever-growing number of people from the American experiment.

In Donald Trumps first 100 days in office, his administration grabbed headlines for going to extremes on deportationstargeting students and permanent residents, and invoking a 200-year-old law to rush migrants out of the country without due process and send them to a Salvadoran prison.

All this might lead you to think hes following through on his campaign promise to deport millions of undocumented immigrants from the U.S.

But the administration isnt carrying out deportations on anything close to the scale it promised, according to some think tanks that analyzed available immigration data for the presidents first 100 days in office. And the scramble to boost Trumps deportation numbers seems to be pushing immigration officials to get sloppy; theyve removed multiple children who are U.S. citizens from the country in recent weeks. But true to form, the Trump administration is hoping the Supreme Court will come to its rescue. Will a monarchical court allow a monarchical executive branch to continue lawless deportations?

Heres the immigration news were keeping an eye on this week:

Advertisement

Trump Isnt Doing What He Promised on Deportations

The Trump administration is aiming to deport 1 million immigrants this year, according to the Washington Postand despite the administrations extreme, lawless methods, a look at the numbers suggests that goal is far out of reach. Looking at all of Trumps immigration actions since he took office on Jan. 20, the Brookings Institution concluded that theres been more arrests, less due process, but not yet more deportations.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

One major reason is that the volume of people attempting to cross U.S. ports of entry has drastically dropped, largely because of the presidents executive order that effectively ended all parole and humanitarian programs that previously allowed migrants to lawfully enter the U.S. This group used to be the bulk of deportations under former administrations, but now that it has sharply declined under Trump, immigration authorities are forced to find immigrants wherever they may be located within the countrya much more complicated task.

Advertisement

The Migration Policy Institute also noted there are a limited number of detention beds across the country, and once immigrants are on U.S. soil, they can assert their legal rights and fight a deportation action.

NBC News calculated that in February, Immigration and Customs Enforcement removed 11,000 migrants, and just over 12,300 in March. MPI says those figures are higher than the monthly pace of removals during Trumps first term, when he deported 6,800 noncitizens per month, but still lower than former president Barack Obamas, when ICE deported about 12,900 noncitizens per month. All in all, MPI believes the Trump administrations current pace of deportations could lead to only about 500,000 immigrants being removed from the country in 2025, far below the presidents 1 million goal and even below the Biden administration, which deported 685,000 migrants in fiscal year 2024.

Advertisement

On the other hand, immigration arrests have doubled under Trump 2.0 compared to in fiscal year 2024, according to MPI, jumping up to about 650 per day as of mid-March. ICEs detention capacity has also increased from 41,500 beds in fiscal year 2024 to 54,500 as of March, leaning on detention centers across the country, particularly in Louisiana.

Advertisement

Citizens Are Being Caught Up in a Rushed Deportation Push

Immigration officials frenzied efforts to achieve the presidents deportation goals have swept up multiple U.S. citizens in recent months, including a 4-year-old who was undergoing cancer treatment.

In March, the federal government was accused of violating immigration law in Chicago, where at least one U.S. citizen was unlawfully targeted. Julio Noriega is a 54-year-old who was born and raised in Chicago but was arrested during an ICE raid and held in detention overnight. In April, U.S. citizen Jose Hermosillo, who is from New Mexico, was arrested while visiting friends in Arizona. He was held in detention for nine days until his family provided his U.S. birth certificate and Social Security card. Juan Carlos Lopez-Gomez is a dual citizen of Mexico and the U.S. and was arrested in Florida after being wrongfully charged with being an unauthorized alien. He was detained for 48 hours until a judge verified his U.S. birth certificate.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

And last week, a family of U.S. citizens who recently moved from Maryland to Oklahoma awoke to about 20 armed federal agents knocking on their door in the middle of the night. The mother of three daughters told local news that she tried explaining to the agents that they were all citizens and that they had the wrong house, as the agents search warrant listed the names of the homes previous tenants. Yet the agents proceeded to tear through the familys home confiscating their belongings, including phones, laptops, and their cash savings, claiming it was necessary for evidence.

Related From Slate Trumps Birthright Citizenship Arguments at the Supreme Court Are Epically Bad Read More

In Louisiana, ICE agents also recently deported two noncitizen mothers with their U.S. citizen children to Honduras. One of the mothers was forced out of the country with both of her children, one of whom was 4 years old and undergoing treatment for Stage 4 cancer. Their attorney told NBC News that ICE was aware that the child was sick and a U.S. citizen, yet the child was deported without medication. Agents also did not allow the mother to speak with her attorney or family before being deported. The other mother deported with her 2-year-old U.S. citizen child was barely given time to speak with the childs father before an ICE officer hung up the phone, according to their attorney.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

In recent administrations, about 1 percent of all those detained by immigration agents have been actually U.S. citizens, Jacqueline Stevens, a political science professor at Northwestern University, explained to the Wall Street Journal. Under Trumps mass deportation agenda, she believes that number will increase.

They dont care about our Constitution and they are determined to try to detain and deport as many brown and Black people as they possibly can, Kica Matos, president of the National Immigration Law Center, told MSNBC back in February.

Temporary Protected Status Program Goes to the Supreme Court

Since 1990, temporary protected status has allowed hundreds of thousands of immigrants to live and work in the U.S. without threat of deportation, but Trump tried to end the program shortly after taking office.

Congress created TPS back in 1990, and it allows citizens of certain countries suffering from natural disasters or warincluding Venezuela, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, Afghanistan, Sudan, Ukraine, and Lebanonto enter the U.S. and work here without threat of deportation. Each country stays on the TPS list for a period of 18 to 24 months, at which point the government must determine whether it will extend TPS protections. Right before leaving office, former president Biden extended TPS for nearly 1 million immigrants from Venezuela, El Salvador, Ukraine, and Sudan that will carry them through fall 2026unless Trump gets his way.
Talk Curdy To Me needed a win in the last preliminary round of the Blue Chip Matchmaker Series to qualify for the final and the five-year-old mare delivered. Now, she will attempt to cash in on that performance in the Grade 1 final, which goes for a purse of $490,000 USD at MGM Yonkers Raceway on Friday, May 9.

The Blue Chip Matchmaker Series, for older female pacers, consists of five preliminary legs. Talk Curdy To Me, trained by Jeff Cullipher and driven throughout the event by Todd McCarthy, had a second and a third in addition to her victory during her five starts in the series. She also had a fifth in a race where the top five finishers were separated by only three-quarters of a length.

Shes just a solid, professional mare, said owner Tom Pollack. Kind of blue collar. Shes not flashy, she just kind of grinds it out. She had a real good year last year and weve certainly been happy with her in this series.

We needed to win the last leg to get in the final and Todd did a great job pulling her first up and got the job done. She drew a pretty good post, so were hoping to get a slice of it.

Talk Curdy To Me and McCarthy will leave from post three in the eight-horse field and are 12-1 on the morning line. Aardie B Miki N, who was unbeaten in her four Matchmaker prelims, drew post one and is the 6-5 morning line favourite. Rocket Deo, who brings a three-race win streak to the final, is the 5-2 second choice from post six. Walkin On Sunshine, with two wins and three seconds in the series, leaves from post two and is 4-1.

Obviously, the favourite has been exceptional, said Pollack. [Walkin On Sunshine] has also been very good and Rocket Deo has been razor-sharp. Its going to be interesting to see who tries to leave and what happens. We can get out of the gate OK and for sure hold position. I was just glad when the draw came out that we didnt have [post] seven or eight.

Talk Curdy To Me, a daughter of Betterthancheddar-Keepers Destiny, has hit the board in 43 of 59 career races, winning 16 and earning $511,681. She was purchased by Pollack Racing in October 2023 and has earned a paycheque in 33 of 37 starts since then.

Last season, Talk Curdy To Me had seven victories, including the Canadian Graduate Series final for pacing mares. She was third in the Clara Barton Pace behind Sylvia Hanover and Grace Hill.

Shes the type that shows up every week and thats evidenced by her statistics of how many times shes on the board, said Pollack. Shes just a dependable horse.

Pollack has seen his horses race in several previous Blue Chip Matchmaker finals, with his best finish of second coming in 2017 with Medusa. In 2021, Pollacks Alexa Skye was the favourite in the final after winning all four of her prelims. She finished fourth, beaten a length, from post six.

Weve never won it, but weve had some fun in this series, at least, said Pollack. Were looking forward to [the final]. We need a lot of stuff to happen to get there, but were hoping to get a piece of it anyway.

The Blue Chip Matchmaker final is race seven on Yonkers 10-race card. Race eight is the $516,000 USD MGM Borgata Pacing Series final for older male pacers, also a Grade 1 event. The Matchmaker and Borgata are the first two Grade 1 harness racing events in North America under the graded stakes system that began this year.

Mossdale Ben N, who posted three wins and two seconds in the Borgatas five preliminary rounds, will leave from post five in the final and is the 5-2 morning line favourite.

Racing begins at 6:45 p.m. at Yonkers. For free TrackMaster Platinum past performances, courtesy the Standardbred Owners Association of New York, click here.

(USTA)
Pierre Lepine of Ste-Anne Des Plaines, Que. passed away peacefully in Saint-Jerome on April 29, 2025, at the age of 66.

Husband of Therese Goulet. He is survived by his two daughters, Isabelle and Vicky.

Pierre was passionate about horses and life. He was an extraordinary worker and a kind-hearted man.

The family would like to thank all the caregivers at Saint-Jerome Hospital and the Pallia-Vie nursing home.

A funeral ceremony will take place at Saint-Charles Cemetery, located at 1460 Wilfrid-Hamel Blvd. in Quebec City, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on May 24, with burial to follow.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Pierre Lepine.
As a part of National Tourism Week, state and local officials unveiled a new historical marker that will draw tourists to the Legacy of the Plains newest addition, the Japanese Hall.

Legacy of the Plains Museum Executive Director Dave Wolf said he was definitely pleased with the turnout at an unveiling of the wayside marker, and activities held throughout the day, given it was a Tuesday and the weather was an issue.

I was a little worried about attendance during the day since the weather wasnt the best and there was a lot of stuff going on, Wolf said.

We are preserving the (Japanese-American) heritage with this project, Wolf said. but its easy when we have supporters and heavy hitters in the community.

He added that sometimes he and the volunteers dont always see the positives and that they take things for granted.

But we read the comments and we get reinvigorated, he said. We keep chugging along.

The purpose of the Japanese Hall History Project was to celebrate the relocation of the Japanese Hall that stood in Scottsbluff for decades to the museum, and recognize the oft-overlooked history of Japanese-Americans in Nebraska.

Now, the hall and its history are highlighted by the Nebraska State Historical Society. Autumn Langemeier from the Nebraska State Historical Society explained the Nebraska Historical Marker and how important it is to preserve and highlight history, like that of the Japanese Hall.

This marker really brings attention to what I would think of as a neglected thread in the rich tapestry that is Nebraska history, she said.

We want to see these neglected threads, she said. These opportunities for greater understanding of the really varied and fascinating history of Nebraska to shine for communities.

She added that these markers are not just for the people who are driving by.

They are for the community to remember how important their history is to overall Nebraska history, and to encourage people to look more deeply into these stories.

Japanese Hall History Project coordinator Vickie Sakurada Schaepler said she thinks the new marker is a testament to the Issei, the first-generation of Japanese-Americans who settled in the area, and those that continue to settle the area.

Because we took the history from the early, early immigrants to those who are now our new immigrants, Sakurada Schaepler said.

The Issei is what Japanese-Americans call the first-generation immigrants. The second generation is called the Nisei. Third-generation, like Sakurada Schaepler, are called Sansei, while her children are called Yonsei.

(The Issei) add so much and help us to continue our customs, Sakurada Schaepler said, teaching people about things that my generation, being born after World War II, had lost, and so we really appreciate having that support.

Sakurada Schaepler pointed out a special attendee at Tuesdays ceremonies, one of the last-known Nisei, 99-year-old Tatsuko Hirakata Sato, of Colorado.

This is about preserving a legacy, Sakurada Schaepler said. A legacy that involves so many people and stories from throughout the state.

History of the Halls

After World War II, two Japanese halls were built in the area: one in Mitchell and one in in Scottsbluff. The Mitchell Hall became the Episcopal Church.

After Sakurada Schaepler moved away from Scottsbluff, she returned for a funeral at the Scottsbluff Japanese Hall where she saw photos of her grandparents and other Issei.

One of our fourth generation said, Whats going to happen to all of these pictures on the wall? Sakurada Schaepler asked.

That question became the impetus for the relocation of the Scottsbluff Japanese Hall, Sakurada Schaepler said, but I wanted to tell the Nebraska story, because there are so many people that dont even know we had Japanese here.

After WWII, she said, the support of the local community resulted in other Japanese-Americans staying or coming to the area.

In 1930, there was something like 325 Japanese in Scotts Bluff County alone, Sakurada Schaepler said. That didnt count all the counties that surrounded it. Then, in Omaha, in a 1940 census, someone said there were only 40 Japanese.

Over the years, the Japanese-Americans established the Friendly Circle Bazaar, which kept the hall going over the years.

The Mitchell Hall was built professionally, she added, while the Scottsbluff one was built by members of the Japanese community.

It was actually built by my grandfather, Sakurada Schaepler said. My aunt told me afterwards, because I didnt know about the hall. But she said, Your grandpa, he was digging that hall out, by hand and many of the issei did, and so they would end up hauling it off in his horse and wagon.

She noted that the basement was not very deep.

I really had to add some inches to the basement when we brought it over here, Sakurada Schaepler said, because people like Dave Wolf couldnt clear that.

Events on Tuesday included presentations on history of the Japanese in the area, including a discussion of the incarceration camps of WWII. Approximately 160 people also attended a screening of Nebraska Public Medias Rescuing Japanese Hall and discussion at the Midwest Theater Tuesday night

Wolf said attendees had a great panel discussion.
Sitting in a sliver of shade on north side of the state Capitol on Tuesday afternoon, about a dozen Head Start students snacked on applesauce and carrot sticks and doodled flowers, suns and scribbles in chalk.

It was because of these children  and kids just like them across the state and nation  that about 100 Nebraska teachers, advocates, elected officials and community members gathered on the Capitol steps to show support for the child care program that has served an estimated 40 million children nationwide.

Head Start employees, past students, parents, local child care advocates, state senators from both sides of the political aisle and even those with no connection to the organization or education in general bore green Head Start Supporter stickers, held signs and cheered as passing cars honked in support.

Tuesdays rally in Lincoln comes after fears of funding cuts to the program that serves low-income families ramped up following the spread of a leaked Trump administration draft budget proposal late last month.

The draft would have cut funding to Head Start programs  which are primarily funded with federal dollars  entirely. However, a budgetary framework released Friday did not include any cuts to the programs funding.

But local advocates still want their message heard loud and clear: Head Start is an essential part of the community, both in Lincoln and in states across the country.

We have to raise our voices today and every day, so that lawmakers in Lincoln and lawmakers in Washington understand Head Start matters, said Liz Ring Carlson, a local advocate and volunteer for Head Start. It matters to families, it matters to children and it matters to the future of our country. So lets be clear, cutting funding for Head Start is not a budget decision. Its a moral one.

A loss in federal funding would be detrimental to the organization that serves more than 400 students each day, with waitlists ranging from 250 to more than 500 children, according to Heather Loughman, the CEO of Head Start in Lincoln.

Lincolns Head Start program, which offers quality child care for low-income families at no cost, currently is awarded more than $10.4 million from the federal government each year to serve hundreds of children every day, which makes up about 80% of the organizations budget. The additional 20% comes from local and private donations.

Really, Head Start programs, for a lot of the families we serve, are the only way that families get access to child care, which is needed for their ability to work, to go to school, to achieve those long-term goals for themselves and their families, she said in an interview with the Journal Star ahead of the event.

The Tuesday rally also celebrated the 60th anniversary of the creation of the federal Head Start program and highlighted a resolution introduced by Sen. Teresa Ibach of Sumner commending the Nebraska Head Start Association for its service to Nebraska children and families.

A bipartisan group of 45 other senators in the officially nonpartisan Legislature also signed onto the resolution, including Sen. Jason Prokop of Lincoln.

Investing in the early years in life is the most fiscally responsible thing we can do, not just as a state, but as a country, he said. Any cut to Head Start is not just a cut to a program, its a cut to our future.

Mark Haba, a parent of students who attend Head Start, said he shut down his planting tractor for the day in western Nebraska to travel to Lincoln to show his support for the program.

Without the affordable, quality child care offered by Head Start, rural towns across the state, like his community of Glenvil, would suffer and be in danger of dying out.

This is worth fighting for, he said.

Despite having no personal connection to Head Start, Thomas Bird drove from Omaha to advocate for the program. During a time when he feels many important organizations and funding sources are being taken away, Bird said Head Start is a line that should not be crossed.

This is an American institution  an important institution  and something that shouldnt be taken away, he said.

The leaked draft budget proposal was not the first time Head Start officials worried its federal funding could be on the chopping block in the months since President Donald Trump was sworn into office earlier this year.

In January, the Trump administration released a memo directing federal agencies to pause all federal grants, loans and other financial assistance, causing program leaders to fear its crucial funding would be included in the pause. Soon after, a clarification was sent, and ultimately a complete rescission, stating Head Start programs nationwide would not be affected by the funding freeze.

While federal funding for Head Start programs remains intact for now, Elizabeth Everett, deputy director of First Five Nebraska, said the communitys advocacy for the organization is far from over.

Everett asked community members to complete two simple actions in an effort to ensure every lawmaker and leader nationwide knows that Head Start matters. First, she recommended people reach out to elected officials, both locally and federally, to let them know why the program matters to them. Everett also asked people to share their stories of Head Start on social media and inspire others to do the same.

Head Start is more than just a program. Its a promise to invest in our youngest learners and support families in every corner of our community, she said. Your voices, your stories and your support are what keep that promise alive. But the work doesnt stop here. We need your voice now more than ever.
Sify Infinit Spaces Limited, the data center subsidiary of Sify Technologies Limited announced that their new AI ready facilities at Chennai and Noida are now part of the NVIDIA DGX-Ready Data Center program and certified for liquid cooling. Sifys Mumbai, Rabale facility was the first to be certified in India.

The NVIDIA certification represents Sifys data center deployment solution specifications to support up to 200 KW/rack capacity. The cooling solution also complies with ASHRAEs 30 years ambient temperature guidelines.

NVIDIA DGX systems provides a purpose-built platform for enterprise AI, powering diverse AI training and inference workloads. The DGX platform offers advanced compute density, performance and scale with a single, unified system that can power the complete enterprise AI lifecycle.

Top Breaking News Of The Day

Speaking on the significant certification, Sharad Agarwal, CEO, Sify Infinit Spaces Limited, said Sifys Chennai 02-Siruseri and Noida 02 data centers are now NVIDIA certified. These, along with our Rabale facility, which was the first to be certified, make us the first provider in India part of the NVIDIA DGX-Ready Data Center program. This certification reflects our commitment to building industry-leading, resilient infrastructure. As AI-ready workloads emerge as a business imperative, such accreditations ensure our facilities are future-ready and fully equipped to support the evolving digital ecosystem. Sify continues to invest in strengthening this foundation for the AI-driven future.

AI is becoming a fundamental pillar of business operations, demanding data centers that are purpose-built for next-generation workloads, said Tony Paikeday, Senior Director, AI systems, NVIDIA. With Sifys Chennai and Noida facilities achieving NVIDIA DGX-Ready Data Center certification for liquid cooling, Indian enterprises have access to world-class AI infrastructure designed to securely scale and drive the next wave of transformative intelligence.
Airtel Africa announced an agreement with SpaceX to bring Starlinks high-speed internet services to its customers in Africa. Currently, SpaceX has acquired requisite licenses in 9 out of 14 countries within Airtel Africas footprint. Operating licenses for the other 5 countries are under process.

With this collaboration, Airtel Africa will further enhance its next-generation satellite connectivity offerings and augment connectivity for enterprises, businesses, and socio-economic communities like schools, health centres in even the most rural parts of Africa. Airtel Africa will also explore rural coverage expansion through cellular backhauling.

Airtel Africa and SpaceX will continue to explore other areas to promote digital inclusion in the continent as well as SpaceXs ability to utilize and benefit from Airtels ground network infrastructure and other capabilities in Africa.

Top Breaking News Of The Day

Airtel Africa MD and Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar said: We remain deeply committed to our vision to enrich the lives of people of Africa. This partnership with SpaceX is a significant step to demonstrate our continued commitment to advancing Africas digital economy through strategic investments and partnerships. Next-generation satellite connectivity will ensure that every individual, business, and community have reliable and affordable voice and data connectivity even in the most remote and currently under-served parts of Africa.

SpaceX Vice President of Starlink Business Operations Chad Gibbs said: We are very excited to work with Airtel to bring the transformative benefits of Starlink to the African people in new and innovative ways. Starlink is available in more than 20 African markets and this agreement with Airtel highlights how, once licensed, Starlink welcomes the opportunity to join forces with important industry leaders to ensure as many people as possible can benefit from Starlinks presence. The team at Airtel has played a pivotal role in Africas telecom story, so working with them to complement our direct offering across Africa makes great sense for our business.
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: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Imagine applying for a job, only to find out that an algorithm powered by artificial intelligence (AI) rejected your resume before a human even saw it. Or imagine visiting a doctor where treatment options are chosen by a machine you can't question.

This isn't science fiction. It's becoming a reality for many people today. AI quietly shapes almost every part of our livesfrom the news we read chosen by AI to how our cities manage traffic. AI promises convenience, productivity, innovation and efficiency.

But as it grows more powerful, one urgent question is being overlooked: do people have the right to live free from AI's influence?

Excluded from modern life

Opting out of AI is no simple matter.

AI powers essential systems such as health care, transport and finance.

It also influences hiring decisions, rental applications, loans, credit scoring, social media feeds, government services and even what news or information we see when we search online.

Challenging decisions made by AI in your life can be enormously difficultand may only be able to be done in court. It's even harder to choose to live without AI entirely, as this requires stepping away from much of modern life. For example, Australian users of Meta's social media platforms cannot opt out of having their data used to train the company's AI models.

A growing divide

AI-driven systems are biased. Automated hiring tools favor certain demographics, and AI-powered credit scoring can unfairly deny loans.

These biases are not just theoretical but they are real and present in our daily interactions. If AI becomes the gatekeeper for essential services, those who choose to avoid it could face significant disadvantages.

In many countries where digital systems are expanding rapidly, a large portion of the population struggles to adapt to these technologies. For example in India, only 12% of people over the age of 15 are considered digitally literate highlighting the challenges of technological changes.

Many face exclusion simply because they don't fit into the AI-defined model. In these cases, opting out of AI isn't a personal choice anymore, but it's a matter of survival in a rapidly changing world. The divide between those who embrace AI and those who are left behind is widening and becoming a social barrier.

This isn't just about bias or inefficiency. It's about the fundamental transformation of our society, where the connected, the optimized, and the machine-readable dominateand the rest of us are left in the shadows.

A lesson in control

The story of The Sorcerer's Apprentice, a poem by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe written in 1797, is a powerful reminder of the dangers of unleashing forces we cannot control.

In the tale, an apprentice uses magic to perform tasks but loses control of the enchanted broomstick, leading to chaos and disaster. Today, AI is that uncontrollable force. It has the potential to make life easier but also poses serious risks when it gets out of hand.

The problem isn't just about safety but about freedom. The Sorcerer's Apprentice teaches us, as historian Yuval Noah Harari has written, to "never summon a power you cannot control"a reminder that even well-meaning advancements can spiral out of control if we fail to manage them properly.

As AI becomes more embedded in our lives, the issue isn't just about whether it works. It's about whether we have the right to decide how much of it we want in our lives. The freedom to choose, to opt out, is essential to preserving our autonomy in the digital age.

What needs to change?

To protect the right to live a life free from the constant influence of AI, we must act now.

While most AI governance frameworks emphasize responsible use, focusing on fairness, transparency and accountability, they often overlook a vital principle: the right to disengage from AI systems entirely without facing exclusion or disadvantage.

Governments, businesses and communities need to create policies that not only regulate AI but also respect individual freedoms. People should have the option to live without AI, without facing discrimination or exclusion from essential services.

AI decision making also needs to be more transparent. Whether it's automated hiring, health care or financial services, AI should be understandable, accountable and open to scrutiny. No longer can we allow these systems to operate behind closed doors, making decisions that affect people's lives with no recourse for the individuals involved.

Finally, society must invest in digital literacy. Everyone should understand the systems that impact their lives and have the tools to challenge them when necessary. Ensuring people know how to navigate and control the technologies that shape their world is essential in maintaining freedom in the digital age.

An urgent question

Some may ask, why not just add a kill switch to AI and shut it down if needed? But once AI is woven into crucial systems such as health care, transport or communication, it's no longer something we can simply turn off.

Like electricity or the internet, it becomes a core part of modern life, not easily reversible without major disruption.

So as AI spreads further into every corner of our lives, we must urgently ask: will we still have the freedom to say no?

If we don't act now to protect the right to choose, we risk a future where personal autonomy is compromised, and the influence of AI goes unchecked. The question isn't whether we can live with AI but whether we will still have the right to live without it before it's too late to break the spell.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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

In Europe, double-glazed windows are standard. But in Australia, these energy-saving windows are remarkably uncommon.

Correctly installed, the effect of double-glazing is remarkable. Instead of a house losing or gaining huge amounts of heat through its windows, double-glazed windows help keep the indoor temperature at a consistent temperaturereducing the need to crank up the air-con or heater.

In hot parts of Australia, these windows would keep out heat. In cold, they would keep heat in. They also slash outside noise. Houses with double-glazing can add resale value and even improve occupant health.

Why are they not standard? There are several reasons. But our research in Victoria found the main one is costdouble-glazing costs much more than a standard single-glazed window.

Heat loss and gain through windows is responsible for about 1.5% of Australia's total energy use. As climate change intensifies, making double-glazing standard in Australia would cut household energy bills and make life indoors more pleasant. Other countries are moving to even higher performance triple-glazed windows. But Australia is stuck.

Why does double glazing work so well?

Windows let light and often air into a home. But they can also be the main way heat enters or leaves. Double-glazing works by adding a gap between two panes, often filled with dense argon gas, which doesn't transfer heat well. The window frame material is important, too, to reduce heat transfer.

We measure the insulating quality of a window with a U-valueessentially, how much heat can be transferred through the glass. The lower this value, the more insulating the window.

A basic single-glazed window has a U-value of about 6. On a typical Australian home, these windows mean significant air conditioning is often required to maintain a comfortable temperature indoors during summer and winter.

Double-glazed windows with advanced design features common in North America and Europe typically have a U-value of 2.4 or less. When combined with wall and roof insulation, they can significantly reduce the need for heating or cooling. Triple-glazed are better still, with a U-value of 0.8 or less.

Standard overseas, rare in Australia

In the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and much of Europe, double-glazed windows have been the norm for several decades. Commonly, these windows use argon gas between the two sheets and improve insulation further with low emittance coatings, thin transparent layers of metal which block solar rays.

In many of these countries, single-glazed windows have largely disappeared and retrofitting older houses with double-glazing is routine.

Anyone embarking on a renovation in Australia will soon discover double-glazing tends to be seen as a specialist eco-retrofit measure rather than something done as standard.

In 2016, only 6% of windows installed in new houses in Australia had U-values below 4. In 2024, that figure was 19%, indicating high performance windows are slowly becoming more common. But there's still much to do to make them the norm.

Why is progress slow? We spoke to stakeholders in window manufacturing and building in Australia.

These industry experts explained why Australia is lagging:

historically low-cost energy means the typical response to heat or cold is to install air conditioning

single-glazed windows have long been the norm

Australians often haven't heard of high-performance windows or understand why they matter

only a few companies make these windows in Australia, meaning competition is limited and costs remain high

at present, there's no requirement to include double-glazed windows in new builds or renovations

housing affordability issues mean owners want to keep upfront construction costs as low as possible.

What should be done?

In our research, many windows industry insiders told us they were ready to scale up production of higher performance windows. The skills and technologies needed are here. What's missing was the demand.

When we interviewed builders, they told us the choice of windows wasn't simple. They had to weigh up material costs, existing supplier relationships and industry practices. Some told us it was cheaper at times to import from Europe or Asia than to buy Australian-made.

In part, this is a chicken and egg problem. Prices are high because there's little demand and demand is limited because prices are high.

So what should be done?

Overseas experience has shown boosting demand is the key. If double-glazed windows become more common, more manufacturers will enter the Australian market and prices will drop.

The quickest way to do this would be to require their use in new construction and renovation.

At first, the industry might struggle to meet this demand. But that would create clear incentives for new players here or overseas to meet the demand.

Government support could help window manufacturers upgrade machinery and processes to be able to meet new demand.

Subsidies could help offset the costs to households, if designed to sunset after a set period. Any subsidies should target groups such as vulnerable older Australians affected by energy poverty as well as renters on low incomes.

Making this a reality is doable. After all, New Zealand did exactly this. In 2007, policymakers introduced new minimum performance requirements for windows. It took about four years to shift the market from single-glazed to predominantly double-glazed. Australia could do the same.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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

The European Union launched the NextGenerationEU recovery plan in 2020 to address the economic crisis caused by the COVID pandemic. In Spain, this plan has taken the form of investments that aim to increase productivity and growth, transitioning towards a greener, more digital and inclusive society. These objectives are aligned with the European Green Deal presented before the pandemic, which introduced the idea of a twin transition: green and digital.

The Spanish recovery plan has 12 Strategic Projects for Economic Recovery and Transformation (PERTE) that include measures aimed at reinforcing strategic areas such as renewable energy. The funds allocated to projects in this area exceeded 8.4 billion in February 2025, the largest amount in all the projects.

A study by the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC), published as open access, has examined 263 projects funded by the PERTE for renewable energy, renewable hydrogen and storage, which included digital technologies. The aim was to determine the extent to which these initiatives achieved the objective of the twin transitionenergy and digitaltargeted by the EU.

"In our study, we found that there is no transition taking place in the sense of ending the use of fossil fuels and replacing them with renewable energy sources. Instead, the consumption of renewable energy sources is being added to the existing consumption of fossil fuels, which is continuing to grow," explained Zora Kovacic, a researcher at the UOC's Urban Transformation and Global Change Laboratory (TURBA Lab) and co-author of the study, which has been published in the journal Environmental Science & Policy.

The analysis shows that the difficulty in replacing one energy source with another is not an issue of insufficient digitalization. Kovacic, who is also a member of the Faculty of Economics and Business, offers transport as an example. "Digitalization isn't the key: both a combustion engine and an electric engine can be used in a vehicle with digital technologies. We expect digitalization to provide answers to a complex challenge like the energy transition, but digitalization is only part of the answer."

The challenges of the twin transition

The study, co-authored by Cristina Garcia Casanas, a fellow researcher at TURBA Lab, covered projects with funding decisions published between 2020 and September 2023. In these projects related to the energy transition, the researchers identified the digital technologies concerned: artificial intelligence and intelligent robotics, data-driven technologies, the Internet of Things, computing infrastructure, software and technology services, distributed ledger technology, and augmented reality and metaverses.

Based on these projects, the authors considered three questions: what does the digitalization of the Spanish energy sector entail in practice? To what extent does digital innovation contribute to the energy transition? Does digital innovation in the energy sector live up to the claim that the benefits are socialized, in terms of the idea of a fair energy transition?

The study shows that despite the enthusiasm surrounding digital innovation, and although the projects analyzed have too short a time span to determine whether or not digitalization can contribute to the energy transition, the outlook may be similar to that of smart grids, which have been in development for two decades with no clear results for sustainability.

"The challenge isn't to achieve the twin transition, but to ensure that the two transitions don't create more problems than the benefits they provide: digitalization has very high costs in terms of energy, water and rare materials if it's implemented on a large scale, which seems to be the aim of the digital transition, and it can lead to significant environmental problems," Kovacic said.

The major beneficiaries of 'green' funding

As for the possible socialization of benefits, the study shows the growing involvement of technology developers and private actors. The calls studied primarily provide funding for consortia (82% of the projects), which are often led by energy sector companies including Naturgy, Repsol, Tecnicas Reunidas, Iberdrola and Cuerva Energia. According to the study, the operators and owners of the grid will inevitably be the main beneficiaries of funding for its transformation.

"Our political discourse suggests that focusing digitalization on major social challenges is a way to socialize its benefits, but in practice, given how policies are designed and implemented, it's obvious that this is difficult to achieve," Kovacic pointed out.

Although the study focuses on the case in Spain, the authors say that their study is relevant for all EU countries that have received funding from the NextGenerationEU program, as it requires that the funds be targeted towards the green and digital transitions. It may also be useful for countries outside the EU, such as Brazil, India and South Africa, which are developing smart grid projects.

More information: Cristina Garcia Casanas et al, Implementing the twin transitions: A critical perspective from the Spanish energy sector, Environmental Science & Policy (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.envsci.2025.104012
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

The growing use of smart home devices is undermining the privacy and safety of domestic workers. New research from King's College London reveals how surveillance technologies reinforce a sense of constant monitoring and control by domestic workers' employers, increasing their vulnerability and impacting their mental well-being.

Smart home technologies are on the rise around the world, and especially in China, which has seen a rapid increase in the use of devices such as smart cameras in the home, for security reasons or to check in on elderly relatives, and baby monitors for overseeing children and childcare providers.

These devices threaten the privacy of employees such as cleaners, nannies or caregivers, argue the researchers.

Based on in-depth interviews with 26 domestic workers and five recruitment agencies for domestic workers in China, this first-of-its-kind study points out some concerning practices by employers in the use of these devices to monitor the performance of their workers within the context of multi-user smart homes. It also highlights how the constant feeling of being watched impacts the workers themselves.

Lead author Dr. Ruba Abu-Salma, Assistant Professor of Computer Science at King's College London, said, "This complete lack of freedom and right to self-determination felt by many of the participants of the study amounts in our view to mental abuse. The constant monitoring undermines trust and affects workplace interactions.

"The devices also exacerbate already dire power imbalances between workers and their employers, undermining their rights and increasing their vulnerability."

During the research interviews, workers commented on the feeling of their movements constantly being monitored as they move around the house, and the unease they feel knowing the camera is always looking at them.

Some revealed they were not made aware of cameras in the home, with one person even discovering a device hidden in a bookshelf, while another worker said they had to deal with a smart robot installed with a camera that followed them around the room.

For live-in domestic workers, smart devices could be even more invasive, with cameras installed in every room, including intimate spaces like their bedroom, making them feel uneasy about undressing and relaxing in their own space.

And while many of the participants recognized the need for safety, especially when caring for babies, the absence of clear communication from employers about the purpose of monitoring sparked distrust and discomfort.

The research was conducted by Dr. Ruba Abu-Salma, Professor Jose Such, and Ph.D. researcher Shijing He from the Department of Informatics at King's College London, alongside researchers from the University of St Andrews and the China Academy of Art, Hangzhou.

Shijing He said, "Smart home technologies are getting smarter all the timeincluding through the use of AI. Devices can rotate and track movements around the room, meaning there is nowhere to hide. AI functions can make inferences about what is going on in the room and alert the employer where perceived risks are posed."

Professor Jose Such, Professor of Computer Science at King's College London, said, "It is unclear the extent to which employers are breaching the law on privacy in China. While China has a law similar to GDPR, the data protection legislation protecting UK and EU citizens, China's Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL) prioritizes national security rather than individual rights, and legal loopholes mean it doesn't necessarily cover the practices of employers in their own homes."

While the study only focused on China, the researchers believe this issue is more widespread and could also be affecting migrant domestic workers around the world.

The researchers have provided recommendations to domestic worker agencies and policymakers in China to address the privacy and security challenges facing migrant domestic workers in 'smart homes."

Dr. Ruba Abu-Salma added, "We found that the lack of legal protections and the unclear regulatory landscape in China exacerbated the vulnerable position of domestic workers. The absence of regulations and defined laws governing the domestic service industry highlights the urgent need for updates to privacy laws and regulations to better protect workers' rights."

Other recommendations include agencies integrating privacy education into training programs for workers to understand their rights, as well as establishing transparent communication and contractual agreements regarding surveillance practices.

The findings are published as part of the Proceedings of the 2025 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems.

More information: Shijing He et al, Exploring the Privacy and Security Challenges Faced by Migrant Domestic Workers in Chinese Smart Homes, Proceedings of the 2025 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems (2025). DOI: 10.1145/3706598.3713616
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:

The invention with a sponge-like material, developed by researchers in Australia and China, absorbs water from the atmosphere and then releases it in a cup using the sun's energy. Credit: Shu Shu Zheng, RMIT University

Engineers from Australia and China have invented a sponge-like device that captures water from thin air and then releases it in a cup using the sun's energy, even in low humidity where other technologies such as fog harvesting and radiative cooling have struggled.

The water-from-air device remained effective across a broad range of humidity levels (3090%) and temperatures (555 degrees Celsius).

Senior researcher Dr. Derek Hao, from RMIT University in Melbourne, said the invention relied on refined balsa wood's naturally spongy structure, modified to absorb water from the atmosphere and release it on demand.

The wood-based composite developed by the team for their research fit snugly into a cup with a dome lid and anti-pollution tray, a cooling mechanism and an activation system powered by the sun.

"Billions of people around the world lack access to drinkable water, and millions die from water-borne diseases every year," said Hao, a materials scientist and environmental engineer in RMIT's School of Science.

Hao was corresponding author on the study, which was done in collaboration with five Chinese research institutions, led by Dr. Junfeng Hou from Zhejiang A&F University. The work is published in the Journal of Cleaner Production.

"Our team has invented a device comprising wood's spongy scaffolding, lithium chloride, iron oxide nanoparticles, a carbon nanotube layer and other specialized features," Hao said.

The team used artificial intelligence for accurate prediction and optimization of the device's water harvesting and discharging performance under varying environmental conditions.

Credit: RMIT University

Watershed moment

The spongy material, which is an early-stage lab prototype, absorbs moisture from the atmosphere when the cup's lid is open. When the lid is closed under sunlight, water is released into the cup.

Under laboratory conditions, the water-from-air device absorbed about 2 milliliters of water per gram of material at 90% relative humidity and released nearly all the water within 10 hours under sun exposurehigher than most other known methods and at less cost. With nine sponge cubes, each weighing 0.8 grams, 15 milliliters of water can be absorbed and released into the cup.

"In outdoor tests, our device captured 2.5 milliliters of water per gram overnight and released most of it during the day, achieving a daily water collection efficiency of 94%," Hou said.

"At 30% humidity, our device absorbed water at about 0.6 milliliters per gram. These results highlight its potential use in off-grid, solar-driven water harvesting systems."

Benefits of the nature-inspired design

Hao said the use of natural wood as a matrix not only reduced costs but also provided structural integrity and enhanced water transport through its porous architecture.

"These features enable the material to be manufactured in large quantities and deployed in real-world applications such as water collection in remote or arid regions," he said.

"The device retained its flexibility and water-absorbing function even after being stored at 20 degrees Celsius for 20 days, demonstrating excellent freeze resistance.

"Its moisture absorptionrelease performance was stable across 10 consecutive cycles, with less than 12% decline in efficiency."

Potential applications and scalability

Hao said the device would be suited to emergency scenarios, such as in the wake of natural disasters where water supplies have been compromised, if the team can scale-up and optimize the modular innovation.

"The current demonstration unit size is 15 cubic millimeters. It would be very easy to prepare a larger unit, or we can use the units to form an array," Hao said.

"Its ability to harvest potable water from the atmosphere using only sunlight makes it invaluable in disaster-stricken areas where traditional water sources are compromised. The system's portability and reliance on renewable energy further enhance its applicability in such contexts."

Dr. Derek Hao, from RMIT University, holds the team's spongy wood-based composite material that can absorb water from the atmosphere. Credit: Shu Shu Zheng, RMIT University

A pair of tweezers squeezes water from the spongy material developed by the team. Credit: Xingying Zhang

With nine sponge cubes, each weighing 0.8 grams, 15 milliliters of water can be absorbed from the atmosphere. Credit: Shu Shu Zheng, RMIT University

Hao said the material was designed with scalability and affordability in mind.

"The main component, balsa wood, is widely available, biodegradable and cheap, and the manufacturing process is not complex, which could enable mass production.

"The demonstrated stable performance over multiple cycles and in various environmental conditions indicates longevity and cost-effectiveness."

Hao said the team was in discussion with prospective industry partners on pilot-scale production and field deployment, integration into modular water-from-air harvesting systems.

"Solar panels combined with thermal energy storage could enable round-the-clock operation, particularly in areas with intermittent sunlight," he said.

Developing automated control systems using Internet of Things sensors to monitor relative humidity, temperature and solar intensity could further optimize water harvesting cycles, Hao said.

"Building on the artificially intelligent design used in the study, more advanced design platforms could be developed to screen new material combinations and predict long-term water absorption and release performance," he said.

More information: Xingying Zhang et al, Development and characterization of novel wood-based composite materials for solar-powered atmospheric water harvesting: A machine intelligence supported approach, Journal of Cleaner Production (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2025.145061
Meta Introduces Stand-Alone AI App

Meta Platforms has introduced a stand-alone artificial intelligence app built on its proprietary Llama 4 model, intensifying the competitive race in generative AI alongside OpenAI, Google, Anthropic, and xAI.

The new "Meta AI" app marks the company's boldest step yet in bringing personalized, conversational AI to the forefront of its ecosystem. It offers users a dedicated experience distinct from the existing AI functions embedded in Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Messenger. The app features a social-infused "Discover" feed showing how others are engaging with Meta AI, along with pre-set prompts to inspire usage. It integrates voice chat powered by Llama 4 and full-duplex speech technology, allowing more fluid, back-and-forth conversations  though the feature remains in early testing and is initially limited to users in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has described 2025 as "the year when a highly intelligent and personalized AI assistant reaches more than 1 billion people," positioning Meta AI as a leading contender. The company's internal numbers showed 700 million monthly active users for Meta AI as of January, up from 600 million in December.

The stand-alone app rollout puts Meta in direct competition with AI chatbots like OpenAI's ChatGPT, Google's Gemini, Anthropic's Claude, and xAI's Grok. It also follows recent moves by Google and xAI to debut their own dedicated mobile apps for their assistants.

The app also replaces the former Meta View app for Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, consolidating the AI experience across devices. Users can start a voice conversation on their glasses and resume it later via the app or web interface. Personalized responses draw from a user's Facebook and Instagram profiles  if linked through Meta's Account Center  and improve with continued use.

Meta says its latest language model, Llama 4, delivers more natural and context-aware responses, better handling voice input and integrating image generation and editing capabilities. While the AI cannot access real-time web data, Meta is testing new features such as document generation, file imports for analysis, and desktop-optimized web tools with expanded creative options.

Voice remains a cornerstone of Meta's AI strategy. Users can toggle the "Ready to talk" feature in the settings to enable default voice interaction, and a visible icon indicates when the microphone is active.

The app launch comes ahead of Meta's Q1 earnings report on Wednesday. Investors are watching closely for signs that Meta's aggressive AI investments  projected to hit $65 billion this year  are translating into commercial returns.

For more information, visit the Meta site.
Serbia's President Aleksandar Vucic was briefly hospitalised on Saturday in Belgrade after cutting short a visit to the United States, with a doctor saying he is in "stable" condition.

The incident came as a protest movement over a deadly accident at a train station in the northern city of Novi Sad has kept up the pressure on the ruling administration.

Serbian Finance Minister Sinisa Mali told public broadcaster RTS that Vucic had left Belgrade's military hospital, the VMA, shortly after 5:00 pm (1500 GMT) and "told me he was feeling better".

Earlier Saturday, Vucic had flown home early from the United States without having met US President Donald Trump after reporting chest pains.

On landing in Belgrade, he was immediately admitted to the VMA, his office said.

Several hours after his admission, cardiologist Dragan Dincic had told journalists that his state was "stable and satisfactory".

Dincic, who heads the Serbian army's health directorate, said Vucic had felt "intense chest pain" while in the United States. US doctors had registered a high blood pressure reading, he added.

"The American doctors carried out all the necessary tests, and the president, contrary to their recommendation, decided to return home," he said.

Dincic said it was unrealistic to expect the president to be able to fully resume his regular activities in the coming days. The president had encountered "similar problems" three times in the past 10 years, he added.

Vucic, elected in 2017 after three years as prime minister, was hospitalised in 2019 with heart issues.

- 'Fiasco' -

Vucic has been confronted with a wave of demonstrations sparked by the roof collapse at the Novi Sad train station in November 2204, which killed 16 people.

Many in the Balkan nation blame the collapse on chronic corruption and a lack of oversight over construction projects.

Ahead of his trip to the United States, Vucic had said he planned to meet Trump twice. He hinted, too, at "important meetings" with top Republican and US officials in a video published on his arrival in Florida.

Opposition figures were quick to brand Vucic's trip a failure.

"He's covering up his fiasco with a story about a sudden health problem forcing him to rush back to Belgrade. There are no medicines in pharmacies in America," quipped Zdravko Ponos, leader of the centrist Srce party and a fierce critic of Vucic. He ran against him in the 2022 presidential vote.

The announcement also casts doubt over Vucic's promised visit to Serbia's traditional ally Russia for celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe on May 9.

Vucic said on Thursday he would keep his word to Russian President Vladimir Putin and join around 20 world leaders travelling to Moscow for the occasion, commemorated with great pomp and an army parade on Red Square.

But the trip would have risked the wrath of the European Union, which Serbia wishes to join, and which has sanctioned Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his country would not take responsibility for the security of foreign leaders in Russia.

Russia denounced the Ukrainian leader's comments, branding them "a direct threat" to the celebrations.

rus-al/djt/jj
Gia xang dau trong nuoc hom nay (3/7) uoc du bao co the giam tu 6,8 - 7,5% so voi ky ieu hanh truoc o. Cu the, gia ban le xang E5 RON 92 co the giam 1.412 ong (6,9%) ve muc 19.118 ong/lit; xang RON 95-III co the giam 1.440 ong (6,8%) ve muc 19.670 ong/lit. Trong khi o, dau hoa co the giam 7,5% ve muc 17.631 ong/lit; dau mazut co the giam 7,2% ve muc 15.730 ong/kg; dau diesel co the giam 7,1% ve muc 17.977 ong/lit.
You have reached a premium content area of Transitions. To read this entire article please login if you are already a Transitions subscriber.



Not a subscriber?



Subscribe today for access to:

Full access to the website, including premium articles videos, country reports and searchable archives (containing over 25,000 articles).


Bilateral trade between Trinidad and Tobago and India reached a record TT$1.2 billion (US$368.96 million) in the last fiscal year, according to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar.

She disclosed this as she announced that her Government aims to expand exports to tap into Indias market of 1.4 billion consumers, and will pursue a Partial Scope Trade Agreementthe first from a Caricom countrywhile laying the foundation for a new Bilateral Investment Treaty.
Policies bolster inbound travel

08:19, May 07, 2025 By Wang Qingyun ( Chinadaily.com.cn

China's visa-waiver policies continued to provide impetus for inbound travel during the just concluded May Day holiday, with the number of foreigners entering China visa-free seeing a significant increase, statistics from the National Immigration Administration show.

During the five-day holiday, which concluded on Monday, China recorded more than 10.89 million cross-border passenger trips, a year-on-year increase of 28.7 percent, the administration said in a statement released on Tuesday.

Of those trips, more than 1.11 million were made by foreigners, which was 43.1 percent more than the same period last year. In addition, as many as 380,000 foreign entries were made under the visa-free policy, a year-on-year increase of 72.7 percent.

The number of cross-border trips made by residents of the Chinese mainland increased 21.2 percent year-on-year, while visits by residents of China's Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan rose 37.1 percent.

Border inspection authorities across China issued travel forecasts and advisories to help people better arrange their trips during the holiday, the administration said, adding that sufficient passages were opened to ensure smooth inspection clearance.

Ports in Beijing recorded 42,000 inbound trips made by foreigners during the holiday, a 66.4 percent year-on-year increase, according to statistics released on Tuesday by the Beijing General Station of Exit and Entry Frontier Inspection.

Visa requirements were waived for 55 percent of those trips, thanks to bilateral visa-exemption agreements, China's unilateral visa-free policies or its 240-hour visa-free transit arrangement.

Beijing Daxing International Airport recorded more than 10,000 inbound trips by foreigners, twice as many as during the same period last year.

Syed Mamduh Syed Othman, a Malaysian tourist who came to China visa-free, told China Daily at the airport on Friday that he was on a six-day trip to Beijing.

China and Malaysia, which have adopted visa-free policies for each other's citizens, signed a mutual visa-exemption agreement in April.

The 30-year-old Malaysian said his last visit to China was made when he was 15.

"I heard China has improved a lot of infrastructure," he said, adding that this time he would like to see the changes for himself, besides visiting typical destinations such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall while in Beijing.

Marie Pollet-Villard, a 27-year-old French woman, arrived at the airport visa-free on Friday. She said she and her friend were planning to take a train to the border area between China and Mongolia, where they would begin a bike trip in Mongolia.

France is among the countries covered by China's unilateral visa-free policy. It is also one of the countries that enjoy China's 240-hour visa-free transit arrangement.

Pollet-Villard said the visa-free entry made her trip to China "very easy", and she had spent only about 15 minutes clearing immigration and customs at the airport.

Inbound tourism continued to thrive during the holiday, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism said in a statement on Tuesday.

Myanmar, South Korea, Malaysia, Australia and the United Kingdom were among the major sources of inbound tourists, the ministry said.

Outbound tourism also remained popular during the holiday period, with countries including Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Vietnam and Malaysia being major destinations, according to the ministry.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
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.
Tucson police are looking for help sorting through a weekend fight in a downtown underpass that a woman alleged on social media was a hate crime.

The fight occurred early Saturday morning in the Fourth Avenue underpass and was captured on surveillance video.

Police released the video as part of the effort to determine details and motive in the fight. The video is grainy and lacks audio.

A social media post that spread quickly over the weekend drew the publics attention to the fight and the alleged aggressors. It has since been removed.

Police say they are currently focused on identifying participants, talking to witnesses and collecting video and photos of the altercation.

Anyone with information or video is asked to call 88-CRIME, the anonymous tip line.
At first glance, they resemble typical tourism ads, but the four new billboards that popped up around Tucson on Monday are actually part of a nationwide protest against the Trump administration.

The campaign takes aim at Trumps Department of Government Efficiency for its recent budget cuts and staff reductions at the National Park Service.

The progressive, pro-labor advocacy group More Perfect Union has put up 300 billboards in all in 40 cities across the country, with messages tailored to the specific parks in those areas. The signs are slated to stay up for the next four weeks.

The ones in Tucson feature a scenic view of cactus-studded desert beneath the words Greetings from Saguaro National Park, where you will find reduced visiting hours made possible by D.O.G.E.

The slogan is a reference to staff cuts at Saguaro in February that prompted the park to close its two visitor centers on Mondays.

The park has since rehired the handful of probationary employees who were fired and the visitor centers went back to normal daily operations on March 31.

But park advocates warn that deeper, more damaging cuts are looming as part of the administrations stated goal to slash spending and significantly reduce the size of the federal workforce.

National Parks are some of our nation's most cherished resources, said Faiz Shakir, More Perfect Unions executive director, in a written statement. But thats not something oligarchs care much about. Some elected officials and unelected billionaires would rather privatize or eliminate our public services.

According to the group, the cuts pushed by Elon Musks DOGE team are already resulting in reduced staff, longer wait times and dirty or unsafe facilities at a time when parks have never been more popular.

Last year, the National Park system set a record for attendance, with roughly 332 million visitors to the almost 400 different sites managed by the agency. Saguaro logged more than 946,000 visits in 2024, its sixth busiest year since record keeping began in 1920.

The four billboards in Tucson are located on Speedway just east of Craycroft Road, along Interstate 10 just east of the Interstate 19 interchange, and two on Oracle Road, one north of Grant Road and the other north of Prince Road.

Officials at Saguaro National Park declined to comment on the campaign.

Other parks highlighted by More Perfect Union include Biscayne in Florida, Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Voyageurs in Minnesota, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin and Valley Forge National Historical Park in Pennsylvania.

The billboard for Rocky Mountain National Park says now with reduced staff. The one for Death Valley National Park says heat deaths rise, safety staff cut.

Though the message on the signs about Saguaro isnt accurate anymore, one local park booster said he supports anything that calls attention to what could be lost as a result of the DOGE cuts and the White Houses proposed budget for the coming year.

Everybody goes about advocacy in different ways, said Fred Stula, executive director of the nonprofit Friends of Saguaro National Park. Whatever gets the job done.

Stula said the national parks were already understaffed and underfunded. Now the Trump administration is proposing devastating cuts totaling roughly $1 billion, nearly one-third of the agencys total budget.

The administrations spending plan for the coming fiscal year, released on Friday, also recommends turning some sites over to states and removing them from the national park system altogether.

Theresa Pierno, president and CEO of the nonprofit National Parks Conservation Association, called it nothing less than an all-out assault on Americas national parks.

This is the most extreme, unrealistic and destructive National Park Service budget a president has ever proposed in the agencys 109-year history, Pierno said in a written statement from the independent, nonpartisan group that supports the park system.

If it takes a few billboards to keep people engaged with whats happening, Stula is all for it.

The fight isnt over I dont think, the Friends of Saguaro executive director said. People need to speak out and be advocates for the places that they love.
The forecast for spring-summer runoff in the Colorado River has taken a nosedive due to sharply decreased snowpack and total precipitation in April compared to earlier months.

The federal forecast for 55% of normal April to July runoff into Lake Powell means this years runoff could be the second lowest in the past six years. The prediction was made Wednesday by the federal Colorado Basin River Forecast Center, a branch of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

It comes as various river experts were already warning that another crisis is looming for the rivers supply as water levels in its reservoirs trend lower, following a rebound from record low levels in 2023 and 2024 due to good precipitation and snowpack.

It also comes at a crucial time in the seven-state negotiations over future Colorado River operations, as the Lower Basin states including Arizona are deadlocked with the Upper Basin states over how to cut water use to bring the overused rivers supply and demand into balance.

The forecasted runoff into Lake Powell and the actual rainfall and snowpack totals for the lands upstream of the lake are important for residents of the Lower Basin states of Arizona, Nevada and California, because Powell supplies water directly to Lake Mead downstream.

Mead is the direct source of drinking water for Tucson and Phoenix through the Central Arizona Project, as well as for city residents in the Los Angeles and Las Vegas areas and farmers and tribes along the Lower Colorado River.

Specifically, the river forecast center said in a webinar on Wednesday:

 Snowpack in the mountains above Lake Powell was 71% of normal in early May, compared to 125% of normal in December.

 Precipitation in the area above Powell was 60% of normal in April, compared to 88% of normal for the entire period of October 2024 through April 2025.

 As a result, the May forecast runoff of 55% of normal was 19% lower than the April forecast of 67% of normal. The May forecast is the last major forecast for the river for the spring.

Asked to comment, longtime river expert and scientist Jack Schmidt focused on the water elevations in various river reservoirs including Powell and Mead.

Using the metaphor of a checking account, Schmidt said the runoff is income for the account. Water that is used or lost from the river due to evaporation and other forces represents expenses from the account. The amount of water stored in the reservoirs represents the checking account balance, said Schmidt, director of Utah State Universitys Center for Colorado River Studies.

The total storage today in all 46 river reservoirs is the same as in August 2021 and total storage in Powell and Mead today is the same as in October 2021, he noted. Around that time, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation was declaring the first shortage on the river  a shortage curtailing supplies to Central Arizona farmers  and news stories were proclaiming a crisis on the river, Schmidt said.

Thus, the prediction of a low inflow year in 2025 comes at the same time that we already have a low balance in the checking account. Were in the crisis right now; it never ended, Schmidt said in an email to the Star on Wednesday.

The negotiations between the Upper and Lower Basin states have been stalled for months mainly because the Upper Basin states refuse to take any more cuts in their river water supplies and say the Lower Basin states should take all the cuts, which the Lower Basin states refuse to do. The Upper Basin states are New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming and Utah.

Sarah Porter, director of an Arizona State University water research center, said this years low flows on the Colorado may create stronger incentives for the states to come to an agreement.

It forces people to get serious. In a really good year on the river, that takes the pressure off and buys time, allowing negotiators to delay dealing with the issue, said Porter, director of the Kyl Center for Water Policy.
Tucson and Southern Arizona arts organizations could lose hundreds of thousands of dollars in government funding after the National Endowment for the Arts withdrew grant offers and terminated existing grants that didnt align with President Donald Trumps agenda.

The NEA sent out letters Friday night to arts organizations nationwide informing them that their grants were being reconsidered if they did not align with Trumps priorities to support "projects that elevate the nations HBCUs (historically Black colleges and universities) and Hispanic serving institutions, celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence, foster AI competency, empower houses of worship to serve communities, assist with disaster recovery, foster skilled trade jobs, make America healthy again, support the military and veterans, support Tribal communities, make the District of Columbia safe and beautiful and support the economic development of Asian American communities."

Dozens of Tucson arts organizations were among those notified, including the Arts Foundation of Tucson and Southern Arizona, which was told the $500,000 American Rescue Plan grant it was awarded in 2021 was being rescinded.

But Arts Foundation CEO Adriana Gallego said the NEA notice came after she already distributed the last of those funds.

The foundation has two other NEA grants, both for $75,000, that were not highlighted in the letter Gallego received.

Hopefully we will be able to use the funds if they dont send out a termination letter, she said.

The NEA letters targeted specific grants that wont be funded after May 31, but the full scope of the grant terminations is unclear, said Christina You-sun Pak, executive director of the Arizona Commission on the Arts, the state agency responsible for dispersing arts funding.

I think that's something that we're trying to find out, she said.

The NEA is required to distribute 40% of its annual budget to states, which use the money to support local artists and arts organizations. Arizona last year received just shy of $1.2 million from the agency's $207 million budget; Trump's so-called "skinny budget" calls for eliminating funding altogether for NEA and 17 other federal agencies including the National Endowment for the Humanities, the U.S. Agency for Global Media and the Southwest Border Regional Commission.

NEA also awards individual grants. Recent local recipients have included $35,000 to Lead Guitar, $25,000 to True Concord Voices & Orchestra and Tucson Symphony Orchestra, $30,000 to Loft Cinema and $45,000 to Southwest Folklife Alliance to put on the 2025 Tucson Meet Yourself folklife festival downtown.

The alliance was notified that its grant was being rescinded, said Executive Director Maribel Alvarez.

The alliance immediately appealed the NEA decision, citing the festivals role in promoting a number of areas that align with Trumps agenda, including supporting tribal and Asian American communities.

As of Monday, she had not had a response, she said.

The NEA contributes 10% of the festivals $480,000 annual budget. The loss is not crucial, Alvarez said, but it does create a gap.

Southwest Folklife Alliance also learned that its $70,000 NEA grant for its ongoing Center for Cultural Organizing in Tucsons south-side La Doce neighborhood was being canceled. The community land trust project is a collaboration between the alliance, the city of Tucson and grassroots organizers from Regeneracion.

Fox Tucson Theatre was notified that its $20,000 NEA grant for two presentations was being rescinded, but the theater has already spent the funds. Fox held one of the presentations last fall and the other in February and has been reimbursed for both, said Executive Director Bonnie Schock.

All NEA awards are reimbursement grants, so you have to have spent the money and then you submit for reimbursement, she said. "It was the fastest payment I've ever seen from the National Endowment in my career. It hit our account within three days."

Eddie Torres, president and CEO of the New York-based arts funders association Grantmakers in the Arts, said legal challenges to the NEAs actions are already in the works.

It is our sincere hope that all of these efforts simply could be restored by the courts, or it could be restored by the legislature, he said, referring to Congress, which has the final say on how the federal government spends its money.

Torres said his organization is meeting with members of the Senate Appropriations Committee this week to lobby against the cuts, which he said could devastate rural communities.

The places where NEA and NEH funding most matter are places that don't have a lot of foundations, they don't have a lot of individual wealth, Torres said.  Increasingly, in those areas without NEA and NEH funding, those are the places that are going to get hit the hardest.

The NEA cuts come a month after the National Endowment for the Humanities sent similar letters to grantees including Arizona Humanities notifying them that the agency was no longer honoring its commitments. The NEH funds such things as libraries, museums, public TV and radio, humanities research and historic sites.

Brenda Thomson, executive director of the nonprofit Arizona Humanities council, pegged her organizations loss at nearly $1.16 million, minus $74,300 that it was able to disperse before the NEH grants were rescinded.

I would call it a hail Mary pass of the best kind, said Thomson, who said each state humanities council will get $200,000 and another $50,000 in matching funds.

We can't do it without federal funding. We can go for several months, maybe through year end because we have a small endowment fund, she said. "We're doing everything we can to meet the challenge grant.  We want to be here.
PHOENIX  Arizonans who are laid off wont have to worry about their unemployment benefits being cut off sooner.

And the state wont add additional requirements to those who get food stamps.

Republican-sponsored bills with those mandates were among 12 vetoed late Tuesday by Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs. That means she has now rejected 87 measures sent to her by state lawmakers.

The common thread of the bills on benefits is access to help when needed.

Under Arizona law, those who lose a job through no fault of their own are entitled to payments from a special account financed by a tax on employers.

The benefit is supposed to equal one-half of what the person was making. But Arizona law limits the payments to $320 a week, one of the lowest caps in the nation, regardless of the persons prior salary.

Those payments now can last for up to 24 weeks, or 26 weeks if the state jobless rate exceeds 5%. During that time, recipients have to be available for work and seek employment.

A proposal by House Majority Leader Michael Carbone, R-Buckeye, sought to cut off benefits in as little as 12 weeks any time the unemployment rate was below 5%. That includes now, when the statewide rate is 4.1%. For people to get the full 26 weeks of benefits, the jobless rate would have had to hit 8%.

The measure drew concerns that t can take more than 12 weeks to find suitable employment.

It also was noted that the jobless rate the legislation would use to compute maximum weeks is an average and does not reflect what is available throughout the state. For example, the current unemployment rate for Yuma County is 11.2%.

Cutting unemployment insurance will not connect Arizona workers to jobs that match their skills more quickly, Hobbs wrote in her veto message. If anything, it will send them and their families into needless financial hardship.

The governor had similar thoughts in rejecting another measure dealing with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as food stamps.

There already are requirements for recipients to work at least 30 hours a week unless someone fits an exception. Exceptions include being a caregiver to a young child or incapacitated person, a student in a recognized school or training program, or a participant in drug or alcohol treatment and rehabilitation programs.

Rep. Julie Willoughby, R-Chandler, sought to add a mandate that those who do not meet any of the exceptions must participate in an employment and training program.

Putting up additional barriers for families already struggling to put food on the table is not the way to expand opportunity, security and freedom for Arizonans, Hobbs wrote in her veto.

The governor also questioned the effectiveness of what Willoughby proposed. Hobbs said a better idea would be for lawmakers to expand the existing SNAP Career Advancement Network, which already provides, on a voluntary basis, the ability for food stamp recipients to get employment and training opportunities.

Among the other bills Hobbs rejected Tuesday was a proposal by Tucson Republican Rep. Rachel Keshel to require the states Medicaid program to provide a conspicuous link on its website to direct individuals where they can find more information an adoption and support for pregnant women.

Hobbs said she saw the proposal as one-sided, particularly in the wake of the repeal last year of the states territorial-era law outlawing most abortions  a vote that she noted occurred over the objection of most Republicans.

Unfortunately, that same legislative majority continues to send me bills that limit access to abortion and information on the full spectrum of reproductive health choices available to Arizona women, the governor wrote.

Another Keshel bill rejected Tuesday by Hobbs would have barred the states attorney general from bringing criminal charges or filing a civil lawsuit against any county supervisor who refused to certify election results.

That measure followed the indictment of two Republican members of the Cochise County Board of Supervisors on charges of interfering with an election after they initially refused to perform the formal canvass following the 2022 general election, claiming they had questions about the equipment.

Peggy Judd eventually pleaded guilty to a single count of failing to perform her duties and was placed on probation for 90 days. Tom Crosby continues to battle the charges.

My priority lies with protecting the voice of every eligible Arizona voters, not protecting politicians, wrote Hobbs, who was secretary of state at the time of that election.

Other measures nixed by the governor Tuesday included:

 Requiring all election equipment used by 2029 to be built in this country using only domestic parts. Hobbs said the legislation is predicated on conspiracy theories rather than fact.

 Outlawing vote centers where anyone in the county can cast a ballot and instead requiring voters to show up at their local precincts. The governor said she will not sign anything that makes it harder for eligible Arizonans to exercise their constitutional right to vote.
Tim Stanley Tulsa World Reporter Follow Tim Stanley 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

A man convicted of the 1999 murder of a Tulsa woman has been denied a recommendation of clemency, further clearing the way for his upcoming execution.

The Oklahoma Board of Pardon and Parole voted 3-2 on Wednesday against recommending that Gov. Kevin Stitt commute George John Hanson's death sentence to life without the possibility of parole.

Hanson, 61, is set to die by lethal injection June 12 in connection with the 1999 fatal shooting of Tulsan Mary Bowles.

"I am here one more time to advocate for my aunt," Sarah Parker Mooney, Bowles' niece and family spokesperson, told the board during her allotted time to speak.

"I've reviewed all the documents again, all the trial testimony. I've looked at all the exhibits. I've reflected on everything, and I've prayed about it," she said of her decision to oppose clemency.

"My aunt was truly a really great woman," Mooney added. "She lived a very careful, deliberate and purposeful life. It was a blessing."

A retired banker and community volunteer, Bowles, 77, was shot to death at an isolated dirt pit near Owasso after she was carjacked and kidnapped from a parking lot at the Tulsa Promenade mall.

Hanson and an accomplice, Victor Cornell Miller, were found guilty by a Tulsa County jury of first-degree murder in the killings of both Bowles and Jerald Max Thurman, who was killed while trying to intervene before Bowles was shot.

Authorities believe that Hanson shot Bowles and that Miller shot Thurman.

Miller is serving two life-without-parole sentences for the two murders.

Thurman's son, Jake Thurman, spoke on behalf of his family.

"Hopefully the next step is closure for us  and we can move forward with our lives and pick up the pieces that have been shattered," he said. "It's like a nightmare I've lived for the last almost three decades of my life."

Hanson, who spoke from prison via video conferencing, offered brief comments addressed to both the board and the families.

"I know there are really no words that can express the guilt and remorse I feel, but it's all I have," he said. "I believe these people would still be alive if not for my involvement. I would bring them back if I could. I'm not an evil person.  I was caught in a situation I could not control. Things were happening so fast, and at the spur of the moment, I responded incorrectly, and two people lost their lives."

Hanson, who also goes by the name John Fitzgerald Hanson, had been serving a life prison sentence in a Louisiana federal prison for an unrelated bank robbery.

He was transferred March 1 from the federal prison to the Oklahoma State Penitentiary in McAlester at the request of Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummonds office.

In 2022, the U.S. Bureau of Prisons, which had primary custody of Hanson, denied the state's request to transfer him from Louisiana to Oklahoma in time for his planned execution date later that year, finding that the move was "not in the public interest."

The federal policy regarding the death penalty changed when President Donald Trump took office in January and issued an executive order in support of the death penalty.

During his comments to the board Wednesday, Drummond said: Hanson "chose to brutally murder a 77-year-old woman, leaving behind a family that has carried the weight of this grief and this loss for 25 years. The Biden administration protected this monster from justice for too long. Now is the time for him to atone for the pain and suffering he has wrought."

Making the case for clemency, Hanson's public defense team noted that he had autism that was undiagnosed at the time of the crimes and that, among many problems, it caused him to follow others' leads, most principally Miller's.

Attorney Tom Hird said Miller was a "master manipulator" and that it was his dominance over Hanson, exacerbated by the undiagnosed autism, that "led to why we're here today."

Hanson was 52 when he was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, officials said.

Attorney Emma Rolls added that Hanson is now a changed man.

"John has proved to be a reliable, productive and stabilizing force while in federal custody," Rolls said. "He has become a peaceful man who has enhanced the lives of those around him  and has had a positive influence on young and new prisoners."

The state refuted the contentions, however, questioning the validity of Hanson's autism diagnosis and pointing out that his criminal history shows that he "is fully capable of terrorizing innocent citizens without Victor Miller."

"Moreover, the claims that Miller is more culpable or that Hanson was somehow dominated by Miller are refuted by the record," Assistant Attorney General Michel Trapasso said. "Even with Miller around, Hanson often took the lead."

The state noted further that Hanson has been far from an exemplary inmate, having been previously caught with 68 bags of heroin worth $86,000 and two homemade shank weapons.

Trapasso showed the board a series of slides, including one image of Bowles' decomposing body after it was found.

"Her family agreed that this photo was necessary  to show this board what John Hanson did," he said.

Former Tulsa County District Attorney Tim Harris, who was lead prosecutor at the 2001 trial, joined the state's team to speak against clemency.

"This prosecution remains with me as one of the most egregious examples of criminal evil in all my prosecution career spanning 28 years," Harris said.

"There is good and evil in the world. Defendant Hanson exemplifies that which is evil.  The decision (Hanson) made that fateful day was calculated on his part  selfish, deliberate and evil."

Thurman said the delay has been an ordeal for his family.

"It really tore me up to watch, hope and pray that we were going to see this through a few years back and then to watch it destroyed," he said. "My mother never remarried, never dated again. My dad was her all."

"We do pray for both men's souls," Thurman added. "I have had to forgive so that I can heal myself and hopefully move forward."

Along with the photos, prosecutors showed the board the Saint Francis Hospital volunteer badge Bowles wore the day she was murdered. A dedicated volunteer at the hospital, Bowles had been there earlier, helping care for infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Mooney said of her aunt, "My only consolation is on the day she died, she was doing what she loved, working at Saint Francis Hospital and caring for those babies in the NICU.

"She loved Tulsa. She gave her life to Tulsa, and she lost her life in the process of doing so."

Mooney added that she can't bring herself to believe that Hanson is truly remorseful.

"I have looked for remorse," she said. "John Hanson has had 26 years to make contact with us. He has not done so. As a matter of fact, he's never said anything."

Where your story lives: Tulsa Spotlight
SBS has launched a Request for Expressions of Interest process for the future location of its planned new SBS production hub and talent incubator in Western Sydney.

SBS is seeking proposals for a premises in Western Sydney that can support a best-in-class television, digital, and audio production facility with the space, infrastructure, environment, accessibility, and amenity needed to foster the next era of SBSs news and media excellence and contribute to the growth of the regions creative economy.

SBS Managing Director James Taylor said: For 50 years SBS has told stories that inform, inspire, entertain, and authentically reflect people and communities across Australia. As we look to our networks future, we are excited to be expanding our production facilities to one of the countrys fastest growing and most diverse regions.

This is a rare and valuable opportunity to establish a lasting physical presence for SBS in Western Sydney. It will strengthen our long-standing and already deep connections with local communities, support the development of new First Nations, multilingual, and community-led content and partnerships, and enable us to share even more compelling stories with our diverse audiences across Australia.

He added, SBS will also consider other factors including visibility of the premises to the broader community, access to public transport and surrounding amenity, capacity to contribute to SBSs sustainability goals, and to ensure a fully accessible facility.

The Australian Government announced the expansion of SBS to Western Sydney at the end of last year and has provided SBS with funding to prepare a detailed business case to develop a Western Sydney production hub and talent incubator.

The EOI is the first step in identifying a suitable location for the production hub, which is envisaged to become a home for more distinctive SBS programs, including news and current affairs, First Nations stories, multilingual audio services, and screen content. It will provide local communities with improved access to SBS jobs and education pathways and greater opportunities to connect with Australias most trusted news media organisation.

The EOI opens today on AusTender for three weeks and will close at 2:00pm AEST on Wednesday 28 May 2025. All interested parties with proposals for premises in Western Sydney[3] are invited to submit their proposals for SBSs consideration, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the EOI.

SBS Western Sydney Project Director Simon Hayes said: SBSs evaluation of proposals will be informed by several functional requirements to ensure the premises can support a modern, 24/7/365 media organisation delivering live studio-based production output, which is a technically complex and specialised operating environment.

After the conclusion of the EOI and evaluation process, short-listed respondents will be invited to participate in a Request for Proposal process. SBS anticipates determining a preferred location for the new production hub in late 2025.

SBS is required to submit a detailed business case to the Australian Government at the end of this year for funding assessment for the SBS Western Sydney Production Hub. Subject to budgetary and other approvals, SBS is planning for the new hub to be operating from late 2028.

The full terms and conditions, requirements, and evaluation criteria are outlined in the EOI documentation published on AusTender at: https://www.tenders.gov.au/. The Approach to Market ID (ATM) for this EOI is: SBSWesternSydney25.

More information about the SBS Production Hub in Western Sydney project and other news and updates are available at sbs.com.au/sbswesternsydney.

Any questions or enquiries can be emailed to [email protected]
Yesterday at Screen Forever, Screen Australia Chair Michael Ebeid shared how the funding body is working to future-proof screen practitioners.

To build a vibrant, viable industry that reflects the depth and diversity of Australian stories he identified five strategic pillars:

-Empower: Equip the industry with insights and resources to stay ahead in a dynamic market.

-Enrich: Build a strong, inclusive industry by fostering screen businesses and developing talent.

-Enable: Bring more Australian stories to screen through innovation in production, distribution and financing.

-Engage: Connect all Australians with resonant stories across the platforms they use.

-Elevate: Position Australia as a global leader in screen production and storytelling.

Transcript:

Im delighted to be here with you all today. Looking around the room at so many familiar faces  here at Australias premiere gathering of storytellers  feels like a homecoming for me.

Id like to also add my respects to the traditional owners of the Yugambeh and Kombumerri peoples and to our First Nations colleagues here today.

This first year as Chair has given me plenty to digest, and, with Deirdre also in her first year, weve had the opportunity to question everything we do with fresh eyes.

I believe our industry has seen more change in the last five years than possibly in the last 50. From how content is made to how its funded, discovered, watched and played  the transformation has been profound.

If were not all thinking about how to work differently  how we produce, create, distribute our content and develop new financing models  many of us wont be here in five years time if we continue to cling onto old or broken models of doing things that are no longer fit for todays world.

Thats why in developing Screen Australias strategic direction, weve become relentlessly future-focused about how best to support the industry to deliver on our Purpose during these changing and disruptive times.

The screen landscape is evolving

Globally, we are seeing industry contraction and consolidation. While in Australia, were experiencing more growing pains, with the changes in audience behaviour continuing to impact how content is created and consumed  affecting commissioning trends, business strategies and production costs. These changes, set against a backdrop of declining ad revenue for traditional broadcasters and an overall volatile financing market, make for some genuine challenges for all of us.

Despite this, I believe there is good reason to be optimistic given we see many data points that demonstrate our industry has been growing.

Firstly, the consistent year-on-year increases in the number and value of applications received for Screen Australia funding has meant our ability to support projects hasnt kept pace with demand, limiting our ability to invest in projects. Five years ago we could support half of the applications we received, but in 2023/24 we were only able to fund 30% of applications, and for this year it is tracking at 27%.

Naturally, we will work with the new Government to help us invest more in the industry and I thank SPA for their support in that endeavour.

The second data point that gives me optimism is the total Government contributions supporting the screen industry has grown considerably in the last few years.

The value of Producer Offset funding has almost doubled since 2019. Meanwhile, the value of the PDV and Location Offsets funding have also increased significantly  approximately 68% over the same period  bringing the total value of Government rebates close to $1billion this year. And then when you add in the State Screen funding, which has also almost doubled in the last 5 years, it brings the total up to $1.2 billion of support.

These are concrete numbers that show the underlying strength of our industry, albeit experiencing some growing pains from the shifts I outlined earlier that require transformation.

Savvy producers are already evolving to meet the challenges  diversifying outputs, understanding and addressing audience trends, developing more creative business models, and seizing the potential in collaborating between production companies. These successful producers are the ones that remain positive and understand that doing things the way they always have is a fools strategy.

Equally, Screen Australia cant continue to do things as we always have. Today, Im excited to share our new Strategic Framework that will underpin how Screen Australia will work with industry, to ensure we remain effective and efficient in supporting the industry through a time of rapid change. But first, Ill share how we arrived at our new framework.

What weve learned and what youve told us

When I commenced last year as the Chair of Screen Australia, I found a passionate, dedicated workforce hungry for a strategic focus that understood well the changing landscape. I also observed many areas where we could improve for early wins.

Following months of reflection and a targeted consultation, in January we launched our Industry Survey to strengthen and help inform our new strategic direction. We received over 900 responses in just two weeks from a good cross section of the sector. A big thank you to everyone who took the time to share your feedback with us.

Your feedback was clear: our application process was overly complex, our resources too thinly spread, and we needed to become more future-focused and transparent  in short, be more relevant, sustainable, and impactful.

The key takeaways were clear: the industry is feeling strain, needs support with rising production costs, requires better understanding of audience trends and digital platforms, has a greater focus on global distribution and new ways to reach wider audiences, and sees room for increased collaboration.

Our survey showed that fewer than a third of creatives feel confident in understanding key industry trends. And while many feel prepared for AI, 56% expressed concerns about its increasing impact. But there was a clear correlation between those already using AI and those who said they are excited by its future potential.

In addition to the survey, we conducted interviews with key industry stakeholders and spoke with screen agencies worldwide. It is clear: none of us can do this alone. Our industry is known for its tenacity and innovation. But to thrive in the local and international screen ecosystem, it is vital we work together  with SPA, its members, the guilds, with State and other screen agencies, and with our Federal Government.

Our Strategic Framework

All these inputs informed our new Screen Australia future-focused Strategic Framework and priorities, which I am excited to share with you today. I believe this will focus us on what matters the most and has the biggest impact  helping the sector navigate the future to ensure we have a thriving industry.

At the core of our new Strategic Framework is a shift from measuring our activity to measuring effectiveness. Its not about how many initiatives or projects we support, but about whether were achieving our purpose and have impact.

Our new Purpose, to help build a vibrant and viable screen industry that reflects the depth and diversity of Australias stories, will be delivered through five key pillars: to Empower, Enrich, Enable, Engage and Elevate the sector.

Ill summarise each pillar and dive deeper into the Engage pillar to give you a deeper understanding of our approach.Empower

In the first pillar, well focus on equipping the industry with quality insights and resources through a range of initiatives like:

a new version of the Screen Currency report, which will investigate the economic and cultural value of screen and games production in Australia; an enhanced Viewfinder series will provide insights into audience behaviours and trends in what they like watching, guiding all of us on how to better connect with audiences where they are; and a refreshed PICA report (Production Infrastructure & Capacity Audit) offering deeper insights into the various challenges impacting the growth of our workforce and demand for facilities.



In short, we want to be the source of truth for insights, market intelligence and relevant reporting. Our soon-to-be launched new website will also empower you, making it easier to find the intel you need.

Enrich

In recognising the economic challenges that production businesses face, we will look to extend support beyond individual projects  supporting companies, developing creative entrepreneurship, supporting screen professionals and strengthening pathways for long-term economic sustainability.

For example, to help maintain a strong and inclusive industry, we will foster screen businesses with financial sustainability programs for producers, talent development initiatives and a Private Investment toolkit to help access alternative financing.

Enable

The Enable pillar is all about bringing more Australian stories to screen through innovation in production, distribution, financing models and more streamlined funding programs. This pillar is where the bulk our funding will be deployed.

For example, we will:

further simplify our Narrative Content and Documentary Funding guidelines and application processes; prioritise funding programs that deliver meaningful, systemic change, especially around First Nations, Documentary and Childrens; we will open our support to include Short Films; and maintain the momentum around Australian games development.



We believe there is great value in the industry working together towards a common goal. Screen Australia will soon kick off a new project to collaborate with the sector to establish a North Star  a shared strategic vision that unites all our efforts and ambitions. You only have to look at the music and tourism industries to see how working together towards a uniting industry goal can have great outcomes.

Engage

The audience is at the heart of what we do, and one of the biggest shifts weve seen in the industry is audience behaviour. What and how people watch has changed dramatically over the past five years  and will change again in the next five. Thats why one of our strategy pillars is Engage  connecting Australians with stories that resonate, across the platforms they use.

To track our progress in this pillar, were introducing two clear measures of success which will be measured annually:

The proportion of Australians who value Australian screen content. The proportion who are aware of Australian productions.

To help move the needle on those metrics, were also changing how we work and provide support. For example:

Were moving to a platform-agnostic approach to Development and Production funding  backing the best ideas regardless of format or platform, which will see more digital-first productions in line with where audiences are. Were introducing audience testing into film development, aiming to lift the conversion rate from development to production. We will need audience reach and engagement data from funded projects, so we can better understand and evaluate impact to aid our decision making.



So, as you can see, we are becoming more insight-driven and impact-focused  again, shifting from measuring activity to measuring our effectiveness.

Elevate

Elevate is all about the increasingly important role Screen Australia plays in supporting local practitioners and their content with unique global opportunities. Well build on this work to position Australia as a global leader in screen production by:

facilitating more international collaborations through Co-Production opportunities aligned to strategic markets and goals; prioritising our presence at key global events and markets; developing a more consolidated and targeted international strategy; and we will continue to elevate our independent games industry on the global stage, to help them earn the international recognition they deserve.



All of this is just a snapshot at how Screen Australias new strategic framework will shape how we work and support the local industry  with clarity, focus and a stronger connection to outcomes that matter and have impact.

Weve hit the ground running

Over the past six months we have made significant strides in not just laying the groundwork for our strategic direction, but we have commenced implementation on several initiatives. We have already:

reduced our programs and initiatives by 50% to better focus our investments; implemented some streamlining in our application forms, with more simplicity to come; created an industry-facing advisory role on Producer Offset and Co-productions, allowing producers to get detailed and early advice on their applications. We have appointed Michele McDonald into that role; reduced the number of Offset appeals cases in the Tribunal by 90%; appointed a dedicated Head of Games, Joey Egger, to recognise its growing importance; and

become more transparent around our processes and funding decisions, which will be further aided with our updated website launching in the coming months.



Closing remarks

Today Ive shared a vision of what Screen Australia is becoming  an organisation focused on what matters most to better support your work and our industrys future.

I hope you can see elements of your feedback reflected in our new Strategic Pillars that will help empower and enrich the industry, drive deeper engagement, and enable and elevate our sector. Weve come to affectionately call them our five Es internally  a simple reminder of our commitment to you.

Weve hit the ground running, but this is just the beginning of what we aim to achieve together.

I can think of two clear constants that fill me with optimism: the first is that this sector is brimming with resilience, creativity, passion and innovation. The second is that telling Australian stories is vital to who we are as a society and represents the depth and diversity of who we are.

As we navigate these changing times, Im reminded of a quote from educator and author Peter Drucker when he said: The greatest danger in times of turbulence is not the turbulence itself, but to act with yesterdays logic.

At Screen Australia, were committed to new thinking and new approaches, and dedicated to meeting the changing demands of modern audiences as we change with you to be a more relevant and value-adding partner.

Together, I believe we can create the future of Australias screen industry  not just adapt to it. I believe we can build an ecosystem that thrives amid rising production costs, funding challenges, evolving audience trends and new distribution platforms. And not just for ourselves, but for our ultimate customer  our audiences. We just have to be brave enough to let go of the old models that we know are broken or challenged.

Thank you.
Werner Film Productions has announced a change in its senior leadership team with the departure of Managing Director Stuart Menzies and the appointment of Tim Phillips to the role.

After six successful years with the company, Stuart Menzies has decided to step down and take a well-earned break. During his tenure, Menzies oversaw a slate of critically acclaimed and commercially successful productions including The Newsreader, Surviving Summer, and Crazy Fun Park. Despite his departure, Menzies will continue overseeing the production of The Dispatcher which is currently in production in Victoria

Werner Film Productions Company Director Joanna Werner (pictured right) said: Stuart has been a truly exceptional leader and creative partner during a transformational period for the company. His passion, deep industry knowledge, and commitment to excellence have helped shape Werner Film Productions into the company it is today. While we will miss him and his wit and humour, we are incredibly grateful for his contributions and support his decision to take some well-deserved time out.

Stuart Menzies (pictured left) said: Its been a privilege to work alongside Joanna and the remarkable team at Werner Film Productions over the past six years. Im enormously proud of everything weve achieved together. Its never an easy decision to leave a place and people you love working with, but the team is in great hands, and for me, its time. Im looking forward to setting the out-of-office to I am in Mexico for a while.

Incoming Managing Director Tim Phillips most recently served as CEO of Fulcrum Media, and has twelve years at Screen Australia.

Joanna Werner added: We are thrilled to welcome Tim Phillips to Werner Film Productions. Tim is a respected and forward-thinking leader with a strong track record in both the creative and business sides of the industry. I look forward to partnering with him as we continue to expand our local and international footprint.

Werner Film Productions, which was acquired by BBC Studios Productions Australia in 2024, is currently in development and production on several major projects including the live action puppet pre-school series Knee High Spies for the ABC, providing production services on 60Forty Films upcoming drama project for Apple TV+, The Dispatcher, as well as commencing pre-production on a yet to be announced three-part series.
HA NOI  Since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1992, Viet Nam and Azerbaijan have witnessed increasingly positive developments in their bilateral relations, with economic and trade cooperation emerging as a highlight.

Beyond traditional areas of cooperation, the two countries are now exploring opportunities in new sectors to enhance exports. Acknowledging that bilateral collaboration has yet to reflect both nations' full potential, the governments of Viet Nam and Azerbaijan are working to advance their partnership to a new level.

The upcoming state visit to Azerbaijan by Party General Secretary To Lam is expected to pave the way for significant breakthroughs, helping to foster more substantive and effective cooperation.

Traditional partners

Viet Nam and Azerbaijan share a long-standing friendship spanning decades. Despite geographical distance, the two countries have maintained close ties, with a mutual desire to deepen and expand cooperation for mutual benefit.

Bilateral mechanisms have been gradually strengthened, particularly through the Intergovernmental Committee on Economic, Trade, Scientific and Technical Cooperation, which held two successful sessionsone in Ha Noi (2016) and the other in Baku (2018).

Most recently, on March 24, Azerbaijan sent a draft record of the committees third session to Viet Nam for review. The Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade is currently collecting from relevant ministries and agencies in the document.

Data from Viet Nam Customs show that bilateral trade in 2023 reached US$687.7 million, a surge of 712.5 per cent year-on-year.

However, in 2024, trade turnover dropped to $52.6 million, down 78.4 per cent from the previous year. Viet Nams exports to Azerbaijan rose 23.9 per cent to $49.2 million, while imports fell sharply by 98.3 per cent to just $3.4 million.

Key Vietnamese exports included mobile phones and components, machinery, electronic products, and spare parts, while crude oil remained the primary import from Azerbaijan.

In terms of investment, Azerbaijan has one registered project in Viet Nam worth approximately $2.5 million, focused on technical services and energy. Meanwhile, Vietnamese businesses are exploring investment opportunities in Azerbaijan, particularly in logistics, processed agricultural products, and renewable energy, the areas where Azerbaijan has expressed strong interest in expanding cooperation.

However, experts note that trade and investment flows remain modest and have yet to match the potential of the two countries. Bilateral trade accounts for a small share of each countrys total foreign trade, and the structure of traded goods is still limited.

To address this, experts said stronger efforts are needed in market information exchange, and in facilitating participation in trade fairs and exhibitions to boost connectivity and trade promotion.

Ample room for growth

At a recent B2B networking event between Vietnamese and Azerbaijani enterprises, business leaders highlighted the untapped potential for expanded cooperation, particularly in key sectors such as agriculture and food processing, construction, petrochemicals, renewable energy, transportation, trade and logistics, mining, digital economy, tourism, and light industry.

Mai Thi Dieu Huyen, Vice Chairwoman in charge of the Women Entrepreneurs Council under the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, noted that despite multiple cooperation agreements, bilateral trade remains below expectations.

Sakina Babayeva, President of the Azerbaijan Women's Entrepreneurship Development Association, suggested that the establishment of a mechanism for sharing information on successful women-led projects would support and encourage cooperation, contributing to the promotion of bilateral relations.

Experts highlighted Azerbaijans past support for Viet Nams oil and gas sector and urged stronger business exchanges and greater market access.

The Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade has affirmed its full support for bilateral initiatives and pledged close coordination with Azerbaijani ministries and agencies to foster more practical and productive partnerships.  VNS
GENEVA  The World Trade Organisation (WTO) committees on trade defence held a series of meetings from April 28 to May 1, the Permanent Mission of Viet Nam to the United Nations, the WTO, and other international organisations in Geneva, Switzerland, announced on Tuesday.

Specifically, the WTO Committee on Safeguards reviewed notifications on safeguard actions concerning 22 products submitted by 13 member countries, with seven cases involving steel or metal products.

The European Union drew attention with amendments to its 2019 safeguard measures on certain UK steel products and its 2020 restrictions on other steel imports, while Chinas initiation of a safeguard investigation into beef imports in December 2024 also sparked debate.

The committee further discussed a request from the EU and India for consultations under the Safeguards Agreement on US measures imposed under Section 232 of the 1962 Trade Expansion Act.

On April 29, the Chair of the Committee on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures pressed members to submit timely notifications of subsidy programmes to uphold transparency and facilitate effective oversight. The committee examined notifications of subsidy programmes and preliminary and final countervailing duties from several members, including Viet Nam. It also reviewed semi-annual reports covering the period from July to December 2024.

The Anti-Dumping Committee similarly reviewed semi-annual reports and preliminary and final anti-dumping measures submitted by member states, including Viet Nam. The committee debated several issues, including Chinas concerns over US discriminatory subsidy policies and practices, the Republic of Koreas inquiry into Frances EV subsidy programme, and a joint proposal by the EU, Japan, the UK and the US addressing subsidies and overcapacity.

The committees working group on implementation also looked into technical aspects of anti-dumping investigation procedures.

The next round of meetings for all the three WTO trade defence committees is scheduled for October.  VNS
HA NOI  The ongoing conflict between Pakistan and India is affecting international air routes, with several Asian airlines rerouting or cancelling flights to Europe and South Asia.

Director of the Civil Aviation Authority of Viet Nam, Uong Viet Dung, on May 7 told Vietnam News Agency that coordination of flight routes now concerns aviation security. The Immigration Department under the Ministry of Public Security will issue guidance soon.

Vietnam Airlines on May 7 announced its flight adjustments for the routes between Viet Nam and Europe after Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority temporarily closed its airspace from 2:55 AM (Vietnam time) on May 7.

On the same day, several flights were rerouted to avoid Pakistani airspace, including VN36 and VN37 between Ha Noi and Frankfurt; VN30 and VN31 between HCM City and Frankfurt; VN10 and VN11 between HCM City and Paris; VN18 and VN19 between Ha Noi and Paris; and VN50 from London to HCM City.

The airline noted that further adjustments may be necessary depending on regional developments. Vietnam Airlines is closely monitoring updates from authorities and will inform passengers of any changes promptly.

Although the rerouting may increase flight times and operational costs, the airline emphasised that ensuring the safety of passengers and crew is its top priority.

That evening, Vietjet, which operates the most flights between Viet Nam and India, announced it would continue operating its Indian routes as planned. The airline said it would monitor situation closely and make adjustments if the conflict between India and Pakistan affect operations.

Vietjet currently connects Viet Nam to major Indian cities such as Mumbai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Cochin and Tiruchirappalli. Vietnam Airlines also flies to Bengaluru, New Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Dubai (UAE).

Regional airlines have begun taking action.

Thai Airways has rerouted its Europe and South Asia flights since early May 7. Korean Air changed its SeoulDubai route to avoid Pakistani airspace. Taiwan (China)s EVA Air and China Airlines are also adjusting routes, with some flights diverted, delayed or cancelled.  BIZHUB/VNS
HCM CITY  Amid rising global tax volatility and trade protectionism, Vietnamese enterprises must urgently enhance their ability to respond to trade remedy measures to sustain exports and protect the countrys position in global supply chains, a training conference in HCM City heard on May 7.

The event, organised by the HCM City Centre for International Integration Support and the Trade Remedies Authority of Vietnam, drew representatives from government agencies, industry associations, and export enterprises.

Speakers said in 2025 global tax policies continue to experience fluctuations, and many countries are increasingly employing trade defence mechanisms to protect their domestic industries.

This presents challenges to Vietnamese exporters, who are now facing a higher number of trade remedy investigations that are becoming more complex in nature and requiring more stringent disclosures to importing countries.

According to Chu Thang Trung, deputy director general of the Trade Remedies Authority of Vietnam, the global trade landscape has changed a great deal over the past decade with increasing trade protectionism.

Viet Nam has been subject to 286 trade remedy investigations, he said.

Nguyen Anh Tho, a specialist at the Trade Remedies Authority of Vietnam, said the US, India, Canada, and Indonesia are among countries that regularly demand trade remedy, with the US accounting for nearly 50 per cent of all cases.

The scope of products under investigation is also expanding from high-value exports such as solar panels (US$4.2 billion) and shrimp ($800 million) to items of smaller volumes like paper plates ($9 million), molded fiber trays ($50 million), honey, staples, and lawn mowers, she said.

Circumvention investigations are also on the rise, especially in the US, which has already initiated 22 such cases, she said.

In reality, many Vietnamese enterprises still lack the information, experience, and technical capacity needed to effectively respond to trade remedy cases, Trung said.

Many businesses are unable to anticipate risks or stay abreast of shifting policies and investigation patterns in key export markets, he added.

At the conference, experts provided an overview of trade defence instruments, offering practical examples related to anti-dumping investigation processes from initial notification to the submission of responses to investigation questionnaires.

The conference also updated participants on global and regional trends in trade remedies, recent cases involving Vietnamese exporters and practical advice to help businesses mitigate trade risks, especially in major markets like the US, EU and India.

Tho said both the number and complexity of trade remedy investigations are on the rise.

Many countries are expanding their investigation scope to include unprecedented aspects requiring highly detailed disclosures, imposing tight deadlines and examining multiple actors across the supply chain, she said.

Another key challenge is that Viet Nam has not yet been recognised as a market economy, and, as a result, countries like the US often use third-country surrogate costs when calculating the normal value in anti-dumping cases.

This practice increases the risk of higher duties being imposed, with a recent example being the anti-dumping investigation into Vietnamese honey exports to the US, Tho added.

Nguyen Hang Nga, deputy head of the Trade Remedies Compliance Division, and other experts offered several recommendations to businesses.

Before an investigation, enterprises should understand the legal frameworks and procedures for trade remedy investigations in their export markets, monitor early warning systems from the Ministry of Industry and Trade, establish communication channels with partners, business associations, and authorities, develop traceability systems, follow international accounting standards, increase domestic value-added content, and source inputs from countries not facing trade remedy measures.

If an investigation occurs, businesses must fully cooperate with foreign authorities, provide complete information on time, work with industry associations and the trade ministry to build a strong defense, monitor reviews to protect their interests, and prepare for on-site verifications and respond quickly to preliminary findings.

Experts said the growing scope of trade remedy investigations across markets, products, and investigative techniques require exporters to take a more proactive, strategic approach.

Enhancing trade remedy capabilities is not only a short-term protective measure but also a long-term measure for maintaining and expanding Viet Nams exports in an increasingly competitive global market, they said.  VNS
The Ho Chi Minh City Theatre Association attended in the 43rd Busan Theatre Festival last month in South Korea. Vietnamese artists presented the ong Chi (Comrade) play, April 5 and 6, at the Haneul Theatre in the city.

The Vietnamese play was the first overseas production to be performed in the festivals history, with actor Nguyen Thanh Chanh Truc in the leading role.

He spoke about his experiences at the Korean festival and his thoughts about Vietnamese theatre.

What impressed you at the festival?

First of all, I was strongly impressed by the way the festival organisers created something for young people. This festival was aimed at young professionals, encouraging them to demonstrate their abilities and stage-making mindset.

Young people were key at all the festival's events. The range was impressive, with some plays having very few actors, even just two, but every performance involved very young people, some even without microphones but all were performed well.

Plus, mostly the plays I saw were only about 60-75 minutes long, in a small auditorium, with just over 100 seats. They were not grandiose shows, but they showed off the refined performance of the artists, which is important.

I saw many similarities between Korean and Vietnamese theatre. What was different was their discipline in terms of work and good organisation.

Once entering the auditorium, it was completely silent, no whispers, no light from phone screens. The audience was completely focused on laughing and crying with the work. It felt like when sitting in the auditorium, I was also a character, completely 'immersed' in that space. There, I felt that the theatre is really a sanctuary.

What is this 'theatre sanctuary' in your opinion?

For a long time, we have been thinking that theatre is grandiose place with sparkling and splendid things. We forget that theatre is a place where artists and the audience meet and share their feelings and emotions through a play.

It is simple, but to create a play which captivates an audience is not easy. First of all, the artists must be talented to convince the audience that the play is good. No matter how big or small the stage is, when the curtain rises, the actors and the audience become one, which shows harmony and respect for each other.

The scientific and disciplined nature of artists work is something we can do right away. We cannot influence the policies, nor can we innovate the facilities or stage technology, but we can absolutely change our own habits.

For example, the artist needs to be more strict with himself or herself. I think that a theatre production must be made in a scientific way.

In Vietnamese theatres, sometimes the production team still have to wait for the artists. As a director, I see that sometimes directors want their actors to practise more, but they don't because they are too tired or they are no longer interested. Therefore, some directors just finish their work without creativity.

If this situation continues, I think it is not good.

Could you tell more about the play?

ong Chi was performed by People's Artist My Uyen, Quoc Thinh, Minh Quoc, me and several others. It revolves around the soldiers of Viet Nam, spanning from wartime to peacetime.

In the past, during the struggle for national independence and freedom, young men joining the army fought together in the same unit, sharing a common goal and an unwavering desire for peace and prosperity for their people.

Even after the war ended, these comrades remained closely bonded. Whenever possible, they would reunite to reminisce about their experiences and memories of a devastating, but heroic, time.

The play, written by Le Thu Hanh and directed by Peoples Artist Tran Ngoc Giau and director Quoc Thinh at the first HCM City Theatre Festival 2024, honours the spirit of solidarity and military brotherhood and portrays an image of Ho Chi Minh's soldiers with virtuous qualities including integrity, uprightness and steadfastness.

The play, which won the Ho Chi Minh City Theatre Association Play Contest, explores the camaraderie among fallen soldiers on the battlefield.

How was the play received at the festival?

With the theme of 'Busan, a city where young people can create theatre and a city where citizens can enjoy theatre', the festival featured a total of 24 performances and 14 sideline events at several venues throughout the city.

The festival is one of the largest theatre festivals in Korea and the Vietnamese play had Korean extras in soldier roles.

I was joyful because the play was well received by the audience, including the professionals, so it was good to get attention from Korean colleagues.

Our theatres have been struggling to attract audiences. How about Korean theatre?

The festival is one of the events held to stir up the theatre scene, because they are also facing the same situation with declining audience numbers.

But they have strong support from the government and social resources through the cultural investment fund.

Additionally, the Korean theatres all make their own efforts finding a suitable operating model with their own criteria and performance style. Their stages are unique, focusing on keeping their audience.

Along with that, they do what movies cannot do, the actors and the audience have interaction. There the distance between the two sides is close, with the audience truly immersed in the play, experiencing and handling situations with the actors.

What is your plan for the future?

I nurture my dream to have my own stage, with only about 100-120 seats, maybe even fewer than 100. There, I can be creative, experimental and do everything to pursue the genre and theme I love.

When I see different models of Korean stages, I think that my dream is not far away.

However, currently I can only pursue what I want through each project. I want to make a psychological play with a few artists focusing on acting only.  VNS
HA NOI  The European Days of Literature 2025 festival continues to be packed with interesting activities and workshops in the three big cities of HCM City, Hue and Ha Noi.

Themed 'Roots and Routes: Vietnamese-European Diasporic Stories' it began on May 5 in HCM City and will end on May 12 in Ha Noi.

Diaspora literature, particularly the works of European writers of Vietnamese origin, is gaining growing recognition in both Viet Nam and Europe.

Their stories, which often explore themes of identity, intergenerational conflict, and the search for belonging, bring fresh and diverse voices to European literature. Beyond offering personal narratives, these writers challenge conventional literary boundaries, expanding the form through fiction, poetry, theater, film, journalism and multimedia storytelling.

The European Literature Days 2025 showcases the significant contributions of Vietnamese-born writers to contemporary European literature.

Over the course of a week, acclaimed authors, invited by cultural institutions and embassies from Germany, France, the UK, Spain, the Czech Republic and Viet Nam, have gathered together for a series of discussions.

These conversations explore diverse themes, from the introspective nature of diasporic writing to gender perspectives in womens literature.

The event fosters meaningful exchange: Vietnamese audiences and writers engage directly with their diasporic counterparts in panel discussion and intimate workshops, creating space for interdisciplinary dialogue on craft, identity, and the evolving landscape of literary creation.

On May 5, a roundtable of Literary Influences and the Voices behind Them was held at the HCM City's University of Social Sciences and Humanities.

Writers, commentators and literary critics sat down with renowned authors to explore the books, writers and oral traditions that shaped their writing. They discussed about particular story structures, character voices, or tropes that stuck with them and how these influences, whether childhood myths, classic novels, or unexpected gems which shaped their work, consciously or unconsciously.

A workshop of crafting compelling podcasts led by acclaimed journalist and podcaster Vanessa Vu helped participants explore the intersection of journalism and podcasting.

Participants learnt how to use journalistic techniques to create podcast narratives that resonate with listeners.

This session was ideal for individuals who want to produce professional podcasts that combine journalistic integrity with compelling storytelling, focusing on content creation rather than technical aspects.

This activity will be held again at the Ha Noi's Goethe-Institut on May 12.

On May 6, a discussion entitled Unveiling Hidden Histories through Diasporic Literature was held at the Deutsches Haus.

History was not only written in grand events, it breathed in the quiet, often unseen stories of ordinary lives. Drawing from their experiences, panelists, acclaimed Vietnamese-European writers, explored how these realities have informed their literary works.

On May 7, delegates and participants discusses about Roots and Routes: Diasporic Vietnamese Narratives at the French Institute of Hue.

In this panel, writers, who navigate multiple cultural worlds, talked about how their diasporic journeys have quietly molded their literary voices. When identity is woven from movement and exchange and what unique patterns emerge in their writing and what threads connect their works and where those threads lead.

There are many activities in Ha Noi, starting with a discussion Voices of Resiliences: Female Vietnamese Writers in the Diaspora at the Goethe-Institut on May 8.

In their works, there are struggles of identity, efforts to transcend the binaries of tradition and modernity, of expectations and aspirations, and of rigid definitions of womanhood.

A workshop The Novel-Writing Journey: From Idea to Completion will be hosted at the British Council on May 9.

Cecile Pin will share her journey to becoming a novelist - from finding inspiration for her debut novel to the publication process. Through writing exercises and lively discussions, she will introduce participants to key elements of fiction writing, including plot structure, character development and voice.

Screenwriter and director Nghiem Quynh Trang will guide participants in developing a film idea into a screenplay at the workshop entitled Screenwriting: A Creative Journey at the Embassy of Czech Republic on May 10. Through a series of writing exercises and group discussions, participants will learn how to critically reflect on their own work and improve their scripts through successive drafts.

The Enjoying Film: Lets Watch and Create Animation Together! workshop will also take place at the embassy.

Participants will enjoy a selection of Czech animated films, explore the history of cinema in conversation with directors o Van Hoang and Trang, and discover how a literary work can be adapted into film. They will also get the chance to experiment and create their own short animated film.

Other events include a workshop: Integrating Journalism Technique into Fiction Writing with award-winning author Khue Pham and a discussion Literary Conversations: Voices Behind the Pages on May 10 at the Goethe-Institut.

There will also be a panel discussion: 'Graphic Novel: When Literature and History Intertwined with Illustration' at the Kim ong Publishing House on May 11 and a discussion 'Diasporic Identities and Intergenerational Trauma: Stories of Vietnamese - European diasporic Literature' at the Goethe-Institut on the same day. VNS
HCM CITY  Viet Nam and Azerbaijan have committed to strengthening their cooperation on ethnic and religious affairs following a high-level meeting between Vietnamese Minister of Ethnic and Religious Affairs ao Ngoc Dung and Azerbaijani Chairman of the State Committee for Religious Associations Ramin Mammadov.

The meeting took place on May 6 during the United Nations Day of Vesak 2025, hosted at the Viet Nam Buddhist Academy in HCM City.

Minister ao Ngoc Dung expressed his pleasure at welcoming Chairman Ramin Mammadov and highlighted the significance of his visit.

Dung emphasised Viet Nams commitment to addressing ethnic and religious issues more effectively, noting the establishment of the new Ministry of Ethnic and Religious Affairs.

He expressed hope for increased bilateral exchanges and cooperation in these areas.

Chairman Ramin Mammadov conveyed his gratitude for the warm reception and praised the longstanding friendship between Azerbaijan and Viet Nam.

He proposed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to formalise cooperation in ethnic and religious affairs, facilitating cultural exchanges and mutual learning.

"Our country has a long-standing cultural tradition, and we aim to promote it worldwide. We hope for Viet Nams support in introducing Azerbaijans cultural heritage to international audiences," Ramin Mammadov stated.

The minister welcomed the proposal, reiterating Viet Nams respect for religious freedom and its commitment to enhancing bilateral ties.

He highlighted Viet Nams history of suffering due to war and the enduring value of independence, freedom, and religious tolerance.

The UN Day of Vesak 2025, held from May 6 to 8, has brought together over 1,500 international delegates from nearly 90 countries and territories under the theme "Solidarity and Tolerance for Human Dignity: Buddhist Wisdom for World Peace and Sustainable Development."

This years event is not only a religious celebration but also a multicultural forum addressing global issues such as peace, sustainable development, and human solidarity.

It features an international academic conference on May 7, with over 650 presentations in English and 330 in Vietnamese, focusing on global peace, sustainable development, and the application of Buddhist teachings in modern society.

Viet Nams consistent policy of respecting religious freedom, alongside its active participation in Vesak, demonstrates its commitment to human rights and cultural diplomacy.

As Viet Nam campaigns for a seat on the UN Human Rights Council for the 2026-2028 term, Vesak 2025 serves as a testament to the countrys dedication to promoting human rights and religious freedom on the global stage.  VNS
The application of artificial intelligence (AI) is showing promising results in medical diagnostics and treatment, signalling a bright future for high-quality healthcare in Viet Nam. Deputy Minister of Health Nguyen Tri Thuc shared his insights with Lao ong (Labour) newspaper about the topic.

How is AI currently being applied in diagnosis, treatment and patient management at hospitals in Viet Nam?

The Ministry of Health has identified AI as a key solution in enhancing the healthcare systems capabilities during the ongoing digital transformation.

In practice, AI has been increasingly integrated into various medical fields, particularly in diagnostic imaging, treatment optimisation and hospital management. Several major hospitals have piloted AI in clinical settings, yielding encouraging results.

For instance, in diagnostic imaging, central-level hospitals are using AI-powered systems to interpret X-rays, CT scans and MRIs, enabling early detection of abnormalities and faster clinical decision-making. AI-driven software for cancer treatment has also been deployed, helping to personalise treatment plans based on individual clinical data.

Beyond diagnostics, AI is being used in managing electronic medical records, streamlining administrative processes, improving hospital operations and enhancing patient experience. Some hospitals have incorporated AI into telemedicine systems, thereby improving healthcare access for people in remote and underserved areas.

Currently, 130 healthcare facilities have adopted fully electronic medical records, eliminating paper-based documentation. Most have implemented cashless payment options through bank transfers, QR codes, e-wallets and hospital cards linked to banking systems.

The adoption of advanced technologies has significantly propelled organ transplantation in 2024, particularly lung and multi-organ transplants. Since the countrys first organ transplant in 1992, Viet Nam has now performed over 9,200 such procedures.

The number of hospitals licensed for organ transplants has expanded from just four initially to 28 today. Meanwhile, the network of hospitals trained in organ donation advocacy and brain death evaluation has grown to 85.

For AI to truly become an effective tool in healthcare, a robust legal framework is essential. This includes ensuring data security and accuracy in clinical applications.

The Ministry of Health plans to focus on completing legal regulations related to AI in healthcare. This involves setting up standards for quality assessment and certification before AI tools are used in clinical environments. Equally important is the training of medical personnel to use AI effectively and responsibly.

AI in healthcare is an inevitable trend, but it must be approached with caution. Ensuring safety, effectiveness and alignment with the realities of Viet Nams healthcare infrastructure is critical. With the right foundation, AI has the potential to elevate the quality and accessibility of healthcare nationwide.

What challenges is the implementation of AI in healthcare in Viet Nam currently facing?

The integration of AI into Viet Nams healthcare system faces several significant challenges.

First and foremost is the issue of data limitations. AI systems require large, high-quality datasets to function effectively  something that is not yet consistently available.

Second is the shortage of highly qualified personnel. There is a lack of professionals with expertise in both healthcare and AI, particularly those who can bridge the two fields and apply interdisciplinary knowledge effectively.

Infrastructure is another barrier. Many healthcare facilities, especially in remote and rural areas, still lack the necessary medical equipment and IT infrastructure to support AI deployment.

Legal and ethical concerns also arise, as Viet Nams regulatory framework for AI in healthcare is still under development. Issues such as data privacy, legal accountability and ethical standards remain unresolved.

Finally, the high cost of investment poses a major challenge. Developing, testing and deploying AI solutions require substantial financial resources  an obstacle for many healthcare institutions.

How can we ensure that AI in healthcare is used safely, accurately and ethically, particularly in diagnosis and treatment decision-making?

While AI offers many advantages in healthcare, it also demands strict attention to accuracy, safety and ethical considerations. The Ministry of Health recognises that AI is not a replacement for physicians. It is a support tool. To ensure proper implementation, several key areas must be prioritised.

First, a comprehensive legal framework must be developed to regulate AI applications in healthcare. The ministry will establish guidelines for assessment, licensing and quality control, ensuring that only verified and approved AI systems are used in clinical practice.

Second, patient data protection must be reinforced. Since AI requires processing vast amounts of personal health data, the ministry will collaborate with relevant agencies to ensure strict compliance with data privacy laws and prevent breaches of sensitive information.

Third, ethical guidelines must be established for AI use. Healthcare institutions must adhere to the principle that AI only assists clinicians and does not replace human judgment. All final clinical decisions must be supervised and confirmed by a licensed physician, maintaining professional responsibility and safeguarding patients' rights.

The ministry will continue to study, assess and refine policies related to AI in healthcare. This ensures that new technologies are applied safely, effectively and in alignment with Viet Nams healthcare system, while upholding ethical standards in medical practice.

It is clear that AI represents a bright future for high-quality healthcare in Viet Nam. However, it will not and should not replace the role of doctors and medical professionals. Rather, AI will serve as a powerful tool that enhances diagnostic and treatment capabilities, ultimately improving the standard of care for patients across the country.  VNS
HA NOI  Legislators on Tuesday reviewed a draft Law on Science, Technology and Innovation, with proposals aimed at cutting red tape, promoting private sector engagement and creating a legal framework to drive national development through research and innovation.

As part of the ongoing 9th session of the 15th National Assembly (NA), and chaired by Deputy Chairman of the NA Le Minh Hoan, lawmakers heard a Government proposal and a verification report on the draft legislation, which introduces sweeping updates to the existing 2013 Law on Science and Technology.

On behalf of the Government, Deputy Prime Minister Le Thanh Long said the proposed law responded to more than a decade of evolving needs. While the 2013 legislation laid a solid legal foundation, many of its provisions had become outdated in light of current demands for scientific advancement and socio-economic growth.

The draft law consists of eight chapters and 83 articles - two more than the current version - and incorporates the concept of innovation throughout its structure. It sets out mechanisms to support scientific research, encourage technology development, and promote innovation as key pillars of national competitiveness, sustainable development, and improved living standards.

It applies to both domestic and foreign organisations and individuals engaged in science, technology and innovation activities in Viet Nam, or abroad, where governed by Vietnamese law or international treaties to which Viet Nam is a party.

Deputy PM Long noted that the draft was aligned with key policies outlined in the Government resolution, including reforms in research management, development of scientific capacity, investment mobilisation, business incentives, public knowledge dissemination, and support for start-ups.

A key principle underpinning the draft is administrative simplification, according to Long. It proposes a shift from procedural control to outcome-based management, backed by comprehensive digital transformation in both governance and scientific activities. The law also seeks to attract private funding through new incentives for enterprise investment in research and innovation.

Presenting the verification report, chairman of the NAs Committee on Science, Technology and Environment, Le Quang Huy, voiced strong support for the draft. He urged greater emphasis on the role of businesses, particularly private enterprises, as drivers of innovation.

He called for more decentralisation, simplified procedures, and breakthrough policies that not only support scientific advancement but also enable agile and appropriate State management.

The committee endorsed the provision to accept a certain level of risk in scientific and innovation activities, but recommended safeguards to distinguish between acceptable risks and ethical or procedural violations. It supported the introduction of controlled testing mechanisms and revenue-sharing models for commercialised research funded by the State.

However, it suggested clearer guidelines for profit-sharing ratios and encouraged flexibility through negotiated contracts.

Regarding enterprise participation, the committee reaffirmed that businesses serve as a crucial force in Viet Nams innovation ecosystem, providing both financial and human resources for research and development (R&D) and introducing new products and technologies to the market. It recommended to ensure consistency between this law and other regulations governing investment, finance, infrastructure, and human capital.

Some members suggested reviewing the classification of 'academies' under the law and called for new provisions to support interdisciplinary research centres that integrate social sciences with natural sciences and engineering. The committee also asked for legal clarity on the role of higher education institutions as scientific entities, to avoid overlaps with other affiliated organisations.

On human resources, the committee proposed policies to support advanced training, international collaboration, and mobility for scientists across universities, research institutes, and businesses. It also suggested criteria for recognising experts and talented individuals, along with regulations to ensure autonomy in recruitment, research and finance.

Additional recommendations included support for STEM and STEAM education programmes, and policies to foster a national culture of innovation.

Regarding funding, the committee advised the Government to streamline regulations to attract private and community investment, consolidate scientific funding mechanisms, and enhance cooperation between central and local-level science and technology funds. It also called for simplified procedures for funding strategic infrastructure projects in science, technology and innovation.  VNS
ASTANA  General Secretary of the Communist Party of Viet Nam Central Committee To Lam met with Yerlan Koshanov, Speaker of the Mazhilis - the lower house of Kazakhstans parliament, who is also Chairman of the ruling Amanat Party, in Astana on Tuesday afternoon (local time).

At the meeting, which took place within the framework of the Party chiefs ongoing state visit to Kazakhstan, Koshanov expressed his deep affection for Viet Nam and its people, and his admiration for the remarkable socio-economic achievements Viet Nam has made over nearly 40 years of oi moi (Renewal) under the sound leadership of the Communist Party of Viet Nam.

Koshanov affirmed Viet Nam is an important partner of Kazakhstan in Southeast Asia, noting that all six political parties in Kazakhstan's lower house unanimously support the relations with Viet Nam.

He affirmed that Party chief's state visit, with the elevation of the bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership, marks a historic turning point for the Viet Nam  Kazakhstan ties. He also congratulated the Vietnamese leader on receiving the noble Order of Dostyk (Friendship) of the First Class.

The Speaker took this occasion to congratulate Viet Nam on successfully organising celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South and national reunification, stressing both countries and their parties share common goals and aspirations, which are to ensure the prosperity and happiness of their people.

He stressed that these shared values have deepened the bilateral relations.

Lam, for his part, congratulated Kazakhstan on its significant achievements under the leadership of President Tokayev and the Amanat Party.

He thanked the Kazakh people for their valuable support during Viet Namss past struggle for national liberation and reunification, as well as in its present development process, expressing his hope for deeper bilateral cooperation across all sectors.

Both leaders agreed that parliamentary cooperation has developed positively, contributing significantly to the overall bilateral relations.

The two sides have maintained high-level visits and contacts at multilateral parliamentary forums, while friendship parliamentary groups from both countries have arranged various activities connecting parliamentarians.

Lauding the role and reputation of the Amanat Party in Kazakhstans political and social life, Lam highlighted Viet Nams foreign policy of independence, self-reliance and diversification of international relations, being a friend and trustworthy partner of other countries.

He affirmed that the CPV wishes to maintain and promote sound relations with political parties in Kazakhstan, including the Amanat Party, in order to consolidate the political foundation for bilateral traditional friendship and multifaceted cooperation.

The Vietnamese leader stressed that Kazakhstan is the first country in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) to establish a strategic partnership with Viet Nam.

Both sides agreed to further enhance cooperation between the CPV and the Amanat Party, as well as between the National Assembly of Viet Nam and the Mazhilis (lower house) of the Parliament of Kazakhstan in particular, and between the two countries in general.

This will be done through strengthened political dialogue and increased delegation exchanges at all levels, especially high-level ones, in line with the new level of the relations. It is also necessary to promote cooperation between the two sides Party institutions and to forge stronger locality-to-locality connections.

Regarding parliamentary cooperation, the host and guest agreed to organise exchanges between specialised committees and friendship parliamentary groups, and to share experiences in legal supervision.

Their legislative bodies will support and monitor the implementation of bilateral governmental agreements and continue close coordination at multilateral parliamentary forums.

The Speaker shared the Vietnamese Party chief's view that there remains huge potential for cooperation between the two countries and the need to actively develop bilateral relations across all fields, particularly in economy, trade, investment, transport, logistics, digital transformation, finance, science-technology and education-training, for the benefit of their people.

Lam also suggested the Kazakh lower house continue to affirm the importance of maintaining peace, security, and freedom of navigation and overflight in the East Sea (internationally known as the South China Sea), based on respect for international law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), as well as of peaceful settlement of disputes.

On this occasion, the Party chief invited his host to lead a high-level delegation of the Amanat Party to visit Viet Nam soon.

He also conveyed greetings and an invitation from Vietnamese National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man to Koshanov to visit Viet Nam at an early date, which he gladly accepted. VNS
HA NOI  Party General Secretary To Lams upcoming state visit to Azerbaijan is expected to further enhance political trust between the two countries and send a clear message that Viet Nam remains committed to continuously strengthening its traditional friendship with countries of the former Soviet Union, including Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan is the second stop on Party General Secretary To Lams official tour, accompanied by his spouse and a high-ranking Vietnamese delegation, to Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Russia and Belarus from May 5 to 12.

His state visit to Azerbaijan on May 7-8 is made at the invitation of President Ilham Aliyev.

This marks the first visit by a Vietnamese Party General Secretary to Azerbaijan since bilateral diplomatic relations were formally established in 1992, and the highest-level delegation exchange between the two countries over the past decade. The visit underscores Viet Nams enduring commitment to traditional friends, including Azerbaijan, and is expected to elevate bilateral ties to a new height.

Decades-long friendship

Viet Nam and Azerbaijan share a long-standing bond, cultivated by President Ho Chi Minh and Azerbaijani President Heydar Aliyev, and strengthened over the decades by successive leaders and their people.

Despite the geographic distance, the two nations have maintained deep mutual respect and solidarity, forged through shared historical challenges.

The two countries established their diplomatic relations on September 23, 1992. The Vietnamese Embassy in Russia is concurrently accredited to Azerbaijan, while Azerbaijan opened its embassy in Ha Noi in August 2013.

Bilateral ties have been reinforced through consistent high-level exchanges. Key Vietnamese visits to Azerbaijan included those by President Truong Tan Sang (May 2015) and Vice President ang Thi Ngoc Thinh (2019). Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh also met President Ilham Aliyev on the sidelines of the expanded BRICS Leaders Summit in Kazan, Russia (October 24, 2024). Most recently, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Thi Thu Hang visited Azerbaijan for a political consultation in April 2025.

From Azerbaijan, visits to Viet Nam included those by President Ilham Aliyev (May 2014), Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov (September 2017), Deputy Foreign Minister Elnur Mammadov (July 2022), and Special Envoy of the President of Azerbaijan Elchin Amirbayov (August 2024). In November 2023, Tahir Budagov, Deputy Chairman of the ruling New Azerbaijan Party, visited Viet Nam and signed a cooperation agreement with the Communist Party of Viet Nam.

The two countries have also established the Viet NamAzerbaijan Intergovernmental Committee on Economic, Trade, Scientific and Technical Cooperation.

Two meetings have been held so far, most recently in Baku in July 2018.

During the October 2024 meeting in Kazan, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and President Ilham Aliyev reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the traditional friendship and enhancing cooperation in energy, agriculture, tourism and local-level partnerships.

Growing trade-economic cooperation

Economic relations between Viet Nam and Azerbaijan have grown notably in recent years. Bilateral trade reached US$702.5 million in 2022, nearly $250 million in 2023, and $52 million in 2024.

In the first quarter of 2025 alone, trade surpassed $100 million, signalling a strong rebound.

Viet Nams primary exports to Azerbaijan include electronics, mobile phones and components, and seafood. Imports mainly consist of crude oil and petroleum products.

Other areas of cooperation, including defence, science and technology, education, and tourism, are being gradually expanded.

Education, once a highlight of bilateral ties during the Soviet era, is regaining momentum, with Vietnamese students currently studying oil and gas, and international relations in Azerbaijan. Negotiations for a bilateral education-training cooperation agreement have recently been concluded.

Energy remains a cornerstone of cooperation. The Viet Nam National Industry-Energy Group and Azerbaijans state oil company signed a strategic cooperation agreement in 2010. Azerbaijan has been a regular supplier of crude oil to Viet Nams Dung Quat Refinery. Both sides see substantial potential for developing human resources in the energy sector.

Plans are underway to establish direct commercial and cargo flights to boost tourism and trade. Local-level partnerships, such as that between Ha Giang Province (Viet Nam) and Kalbajar region (Azerbaijan), are also being encouraged.

The Vietnamese community in Azerbaijan remains small, mainly students in technical and international studies.

Promoting Vietnam-Azerbaijan traditional friendship, all-round ties

Party General Secretary Lams state visit to Azerbaijan is not only his first to the country but also a major diplomatic milestone, aligned with Viet Nams foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, multilateralism, diversification, and proactive and active global integration as defined by the 13th National Party Congress.

Deputy Minister Le Thi Thu Hang described the visit as a powerful testament to Viet Nams sincere and loyal relations with traditional friends, aiming for more sustainable, more effective, more substantive, and more mutually beneficial cooperation, matching the potential of the two sides and aspiration of people in both countries. It is expected to promote and further deepen traditional friendship and all-round cooperation with Azerbaijan, she said.

Viet Nams Ambassador to Russia ang Minh Khoi and concurrently accredited to Azerbaijan, noted the special significance of the Party chief's trip to four former Soviet countries - Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Russia, and Belarus. Among them, he highlighted Azerbaijan as a particularly warm and trusted friend of Viet Nam, both historically and in the present day.

He added that this is the highest-level Vietnamese visit to Azerbaijan since diplomatic relations began, and that it is expected to strengthen ties, particularly in Azerbaijans areas of strength - most notably oil and gas. With Azerbaijan now opening more assertively to international partners, the country could become a strategic gateway for Viet Nams engagement with Central Asia and Europe. In turn, Viet Nam is ready to serve as a bridge for Azerbaijan to enhance its connections with East Asia.

With a strong foundation of friendship and growing mutual interests, the state visit by General Secretary Lam is poised to elevate Viet NamAzerbaijan relations to new heights - in line with the aspirations and benefit of both nations, for global peace and stability, the diplomat stated. VNS
HA NOI  On behalf of the leaders of the Party, State and people of Viet Nam, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha on May 6 extended congratulations to Russia on the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War.

Speaking at a banquet held Ha Noi to celebrate the anniversary (May 9, 1945 - 2025), Ha and other participants commemorated millions of soldiers and Soviet people who sacrificed their lives to create the immortal heroic epic, defeat fascism, and open an era of peaceful development and prosperity for mankind.

Ha described May 9, 1945 as the great victory of the Soviet people and peace-loving forces around the world, and the one of conscience and dignity.

The power of the times originating from the victory strongly encouraged the Vietnamese people, under the leadership of the Communist Party of Viet Nam and President Ho Chi Minh, to win the August Revolution in 1945 and give birth to the Democratic Republic of Viet Nam on September 2, 1945.

The Deputy PM said that Viet Nam always remembers the great support of the State and people of the Soviet Union and Russia during the resistance wars as well as the cause of national construction and defence.

He called the noble international spirit a bright, eternal symbol of the loyal and steadfast friendship between the two peoples of Viet Nam and Russia, a relationship that has been forged through the challenges of history and continues to be nurtured in peace today.

He added that as a nation that has gone through many struggles against invaders, with countless sacrifices, losses and pains, Viet Nam, more than anyone else, deeply understands the value of peace, independence and freedom. Viet Nam always cherishes the spirit of international solidarity, firmly follows the path of peaceful and neutral diplomacy, and remains a friend and trusted partner of all countries in the world, including traditional friends such as the former Soviet Union and Russia today.

Viet Nam always attaches special importance to the cooperative relationship with Russia, considering it a shared and invaluable asset of the two countries and peoples, the official continued.

On that basis, the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Russia will be increasingly consolidated and developed across key areas of economy- trade, defence - security, energy, education - training, science - technology, tourism and people-to-people exchange, Ha said.

Notably, Party General Secretary To Lam's upcoming official visit to Russia and attendance at the 80th anniversary of the Great Patriotic War triumph will strengthen political trust and identify new directions to bring the traditional friendship and the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to new heights, the Deputy PM noted.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nam has reaffirmed its commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, as well as handling maritime disputes in a peaceful manner.

Member of the Party Central Committee and Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Manh Cuong made the statement on Wednesday at the 14th Ocean Dialogue themed 'Dispute Settlement Mechanisms: UNCLOS' Indispensable Guardians' held in Ha Noi.

Viet Nam's successful, peaceful and legal negotiations on maritime boundaries with neighbouring countries, including China, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand, proves that adhering to international legal principles "is not just the right path, it is the smartest strategic choice for our national and regional interests," the diplomat stressed.

"In a world increasingly shaped by climate change, environmental challenges and resource scarcity, UNCLOS Dispute Settlement mechanisms provide nations with practical tools to collaborate on long term ocean governance," Cuong noted. He added that these tools provided help us navigate critical issues such as rises in sea levels, sustainable management of maritime biodiversity, and responsible use of seabed resources  issues central to the survival and prosperity of future generations.

He called UNCLOS and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) a visionary step towards greater international harmony and order at sea, and ITLOS exemplifies a "progressive and civilised approach to dispute resolution, providing a peaceful and rational alternative to conflict and force."

Cuong said: "UNCLOS offers not merely a legal framework but also a powerful vehicle for peace. It encourages nations to resolve differences, to dialogue, respect and adherence to international law for nations essential for global maritime security, peace, and sustainable economic development

UNCLOS is indeed the constitution of the oceans, and its dispute settlement mechanismsparticularly ITLOSare the indispensable guardians of international maritime order," he said, calling on every relevant party to "support, use and strengthen these institutions" to build a future where our oceans remain a space of peace, stability and prosperity grounded firmly in the rule of law.

At the meeting, Australian Ambassador to Viet Nam Gillian Bird reiterated her country's firm belief in peaceful resolution through law.

Australia has always pursued a world where differences and disputes are settled peacefully in accordance with rules and norms, and not by force, power or size, she said.

Noting the global stakes in maritime stability, especially in the South China Sea (known in Viet Nam as the East Sea), Ambassador Bird stated that Australia and Southeast Asian economies are deeply connected with each other and rest of the world.

A large proportion of global trade transits the South China Sea. We all rely on sea routes for our trade. For these reasons, peace and stability in the maritime domain and freedom of navigation are critical to us all, and adherence to UNCLOS as the legal framework protecting these activities in the oceans and seas is vital.

However, she expressed concern over aggressive and coercive conduct" in the South China Sea and the threats posed to undersea cables, coastal communities, and the marine environment through illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing," which highlighted the need for lawful and peaceful resolution of disputes.

Highlighting Australias direct experience with UNCLOS dispute mechanisms, Bird shared the countrys journey through the first-ever conciliation process under UNCLOS with Timor-Leste: Australia argued that the Conciliation Commission did not have jurisdiction... however, we made it clear from the outset that we would abide by the Commissions decision no matter what it was.

This, she said, exemplifies what it means to uphold international lawaccepting rulings even when they dont go our way.

She also called attention to the 2016 South China Sea arbitration ruling between the Philippines and China, stating firmly that the findings are final and binding on the parties and reaffirmed Australias support for compliance with international rulings.

"We cannot simply ignore rulings we don't like. We must speak up when they are ignored to ensure UNCLOS and the international rules on which we all rely are not weakened," the Australian said.

The 14th edition of the Ocean Dialogue, held in Ha Noi by the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam, in partnership with the German NGO Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS), brought together diplomats, legal scholars and maritime experts from around the world for a critical discussion on dispute settlement mechanisms under the UNCLOS. With UNCLOS marking the 30th anniversary of its entry into force and the ITLOS approaching its own 30th anniversary in 2026, the conference served as a timely reflection on the past, present and future of international maritime dispute resolution.

The Vice President of the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam (DAV), Dr Nguyen Thi Lan Anh, underscored the enduring value of UNCLOS, calling it a defining moment in the international communitys effort to establish a coherent legal framework for the sustainable and peaceful use of the seas.

Olivia Schlouch, Programme Manager of the KAS Rule of Law Programme Asia, expressed strong support for Viet Nams growing role in international maritime law.

We proudly support Associate Professor Dr Nguyen Thi Lan Anh in her candidacy as Viet Nams first ever nominee for Judge at ITLOS. Her candidacy is not only a recognition of her personal expertise but a testament to Viet Nams growing leadership in maritime legal affairs," the Programme Manager said.

The discussions at the 14th Ocean Dialogue were divided into four sessions: an overview of the historical foundations and legal development of UNCLOS Dispute Settlement mechanisms, their contributions to peaceful resolution of maritime disputes, how judicial interpretation have helped develop the International Law of the Sea, and the final session looked to the future, considering it might adapt to emerging challenges like climate change, deep sea mining and rising sea levels.  VNS
ASTANA  Party General Secretary To Lam, his spouse and a high-ranking Vietnamese delegation attended a military parade marking the 80th anniversary of Victory over Fascism in Astana on May 7 (local time), as part of their ongoing state visit to Kazakhstan.

The event, broadcast live across the capital and major cities via public LED screen, also saw the presence of President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

From dawn, volunteers distributed the Victory Ribbon, a sky-blue silk strip symbolising courage and remembrance. Measuring 30cm in length and 3cm in width, the ribbon is adorned with Kazakhstans golden national emblem at the centre, serving as a tribute to the bravery of those who fought in the Great Patriotic War and a legacy of memory for future generations.

More than 4,000 personnel from the Kazakh Ministry of Defence, National Guard, the Ministry of Emergency Situations, and Border Service joined the parade, accompanied by over 200 pieces of military equipment and 66 aircraft flyovers. Each formation consisted of 156 troops, followed by a 300-member military band that closed the parade in full ceremonial display.

Following the parade was a concert featuring top Kazakhstani artists and troupes.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  State President Luong Cuong has urged officers and soldiers of the Viet Nam People's Navy to strengthen solidarity, remain proactive, flexible and creative, and seize opportunities to overcome challenges and excellently accomplish all assigned tasks, resolutely safeguarding national sovereignty over seas and islands.

Addressing a ceremony hosted by the Viet Nam People's Navy in the northern city of Hai Phong on Wednesday to mark its 70th founding anniversary (May 7, 1955 - 2025), Cuong requested the naval force to continuously uphold the noble traditions of the nation, the heroic Viet Nam People's Army and its glorious legacy, and stay committed to performing their mission well.

He said that, amid the increasingly complicated and unpredictable developments in the region and the world, the seas and islands hold vital strategic significance for socio-economic development and international integration, serving as a particularly important strategic space for national defence and security.

He stated that safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Viet Nam's seas and islands is the will, aspiration and responsibility of the entire Party, people, and army, with the Viet Nam People's Navy as the core force.

The naval force must consistently and thoroughly grasp the Party's guidelines and the State's policies and laws, particularly the resolution of the 13th Party Central Committees 8th plenum on the national defence strategy in the new situation; the 12th Party Central Committees resolution on the strategy for sustainable development of Viet Nam's marine economy till 2030, with a vision to 2045; as well as the Partys and State's positions on safeguarding sea and island sovereignty and resolving disputes at sea, Cuong stressed.

He asked the force to closely monitor the situation and provide timely, accurate and effective recommendations to the Party, State, Central Military Commission, and Ministry of National Defence on policies and measures to firmly protect the national independence, sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, including sea and island territories early and from afar, in tandem with maintaining an environment of peace and stability at sea to develop the nation.

He emphasised the need to focus on building comprehensively strong agencies and units, with special attention to improving the quality of political and ideological education throughout the naval force; fostering political mettle among officers and soldiers, ensuring they clearly understand their tasks, partners, adversaries, and the schemes and tactics of hostile forces.

One of the naval forces other key tasks is to continue building a lean, strong, revolutionary, elite and modern force; effectively integrate national defence, security, foreign affairs, and economic activities; proactively study and propose solutions for maritime economic development; and efficiently implement economic-defence projects and programmes at sea, he said.

He emphasised that the navy must always serve as a core force and a steadfast support for fishermen at sea, contributing to building an all-people national defence posture and a people's heart position at sea; strengthening international cooperation and law enforcement at sea; promptly addressing emerging issues; and firmly safeguarding the nations sovereignty, sovereign rights, jurisdiction, and national interests at sea.

The President also called for continued efforts to build the clean and strong Party organisation of the navy in terms of politics, ideology, ethics, organisational structure and personnel; enhance the leadership capacity and combat strength of Party committees and organisations at all levels, in association with promoting the study and following of President Ho Chi Minh's Thought, morality and style; and resolutely combating corruption, wastefulness, and other negative phenomena, signs of degradation in political ideology, ethics and lifestyle, as well as manifestations of internal self-evolution and self-transformation and attempts to depoliticise the army and civilianise military affairs.

Filled with pride in the naval forces victories and achievements over the past 70 years, Cuong expressed his belief that the force will continue to unite and stand shoulder to shoulder with the entire Party, people and army to confidently lead the country into a new era of robust development and prosperity.

On this occasion, for the third time, the Viet Nam People's Navy was honoured with the Ho Chi Minh Order, a noble distinction bestowed by the Party and State in recognition of the forces outstanding contributions and remarkable achievements in the new era.  VNS
HA NOI  National Assembly (NA) Vice Chairman Nguyen Khac inh on Wednesday presented the draft resolution on amendments and supplements to a number of articles of the 2013 Constitution at the ongoing NA session in Ha Noi.

inh said that revisions to the Constitution must ensure the absolute, comprehensive and direct leadership of the Communist Party of Viet Nam.

He underscored the need for a cautious, democratic and science-based approach, following all legal procedures.

The draft resolution contains two articles:

Article 1 includes eight clauses proposing revisions related to the Vietnam Fatherland Front (VFF), socio-political organisations, administrative units, and the structure of local government.

Article 2 includes three clauses regarding the effective date and transitional provisions.

To clarify the VFFs central role in national unity and strengthen the legal framework for restructuring its apparatus and that of affiliated organisations, the draft proposes amending Article 9 of the Constitution.

It also proposes granting the VFF Central Committee the right to submit draft laws and ordinances.

The committee also proposed amendments to Article 10 to reaffirm that the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour (VGCL) is a socio-political organisation representing the working class and labourers under the VFF.

It also defines the VGCLs role in representing workers in labour relations and international union matters.

Reflecting the Partys policy to streamline the political system and local government, the draft outlines changes to Article 110.

It defines administrative units broadly, including provinces and centrally-run cities and administrative units under provinces and centrally-run cities, and special administrative-economic units established by the NA, inh said.

The legislature will regulate the procedures for forming, dissolving or adjusting these units, according to inh, who is vice chairman of the drafting committee for amending several articles of the Constitution.

Further revisions to Articles 111, 112 and 114 define local governments at the provincial and communal levels as including both Peoples Councils and Peoples Committees, removing the term "local government level".

The drafting committee proposed July 1, 2025 be effective date for the resolution.

It proposed the resolution must announce the dissolution of district-level administrative units.

inh said: "The public consultation on the Constitutions amendments officially began on May 6 and will conclude on June 5, 2025. This will be conducted in a democratic and substantive manner, using diverse methods and technology to encourage broad citizen participation.

Feedback from the public, sectors and legislators will inform revisions to the draft before a final discussion and approval by the NA on June 24, 2025. VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nam treasures its Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the US and sincerely hopes that the bilateral relationship will continue to maintain its positive momentum to become increasingly substantive, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said on Wednesday.

Receiving a delegation from the US Congresss US-China Economic and Security Review Commission (USCC) led by its Chair Reva Price, PM Chinh affirmed that Viet Nam remains committed to a foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, openness, and multilateralism and diversification of relations, along with its "Four Nos" defence policy.

Viet Nam pursues a policy of building an independent and self-reliant economy while proactively and actively engaging in extensive, substantive, and effective international integration, he stated.

He expressed satisfaction with the development of bilateral relations over the recent past, welcomed the USs continued efforts in addressing the war aftermath, and urged the country to soon recognise Viet Nam's market economy status, remove Viet Nam from the D1 and D3 strategic export control lists, and enhance technology transfer in bilateral economic, trade, and investment cooperation to help promote balanced and sustainable trade ties.

PM Chinh appreciated the US administration and Congresss support for a strong, independent, resilient, and prosperous Viet Nam, calling on the USCC Chair and members to continue supporting the development of bilateral relations.

Regarding the tariff issue, the Government leader affirmed that Viet Nam is ready to negotiate with the US for the benefit of both peoples and business communities, aiming for balanced and sustainable trade. He also viewed this as an opportunity to restructure the economy, diversify markets, products, and supply chains, and further build an independent and self-reliant economy while stepping up active, substantive, and effective integration into the world.

Discussing regional matters, the PM reiterated Viet Nam's consistent stance of addressing the East Sea (known internationally as the South China Sea) issue through peaceful measures in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). He highlighted efforts to implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) and to promote negotiations on a substantive and effective Code of Conduct (COC) in line with international law.

He asked the US to continue supporting ASEANs common stance on the East Sea issue and efforts to solve disputes through peaceful means in accordance with international law.

Expressing her pleasure at visiting Viet Nam for the first time and her impression with the countrys strong development, Price affirmed that Viet Nam is an important partner of the US in the region.

Delegation members praised the achievements of bilateral ties over the past 30 years and showed optimism about the future development of bilateral relations.

They agreed with the PMs proposals and pledged to continue advocating efforts to advance bilateral relations, including the recognition of Viet Nams market economy status and the tariff negotiations between the two countries.  VNS
ASTANA  General Secretary of the Communist Party of Viet Nam Central Committee To Lam, his spouse Ngo Phuong Ly, and the high-ranking delegation of Vietnam left Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport on Wednesday afternoon (local time), concluding a three-day state visit to Kazakhstan at the invitation of President Kassym-Jormat Tokayev.

The next destination of the Vietnamese Party chief is Azerbaijan, to which he will pay a state visit at the invitation of President Ilham Aliyev.

Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov came to Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport to see off General Secretary Lam, his spouse, and the Vietnamese delegation.

During the trip, the Vietnamese leader held talks with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and had meetings with Chairman of the Senate Maulen Ashimbayev, Speaker of the Mazhilis (the lower house) and Chairman of the ruling Amanat Party Yerlan Koshanov, along with PM Olzhas Bektenov. He witnessed the handover of cooperation documents and adopted a joint statement on the establishment of the two countries Strategic Partnership.

The General Secretary also attended a military parade marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory over Fascism, took part in a Viet Nam  Kazakhstan business roundtable, received some local enterprises, visited the Astana International Financial Centre, and delivered a policy speech at the Academy of Public Administration under the President of Kazakhstan.

In addition, the General Secretary and his spouse attended a Viet Nam  Kazakhstan friendship concert, met the staff of the Vietnamese Embassy and representatives of the Vietnamese community there, and visited the Ethno-Village of Kazakhstan.

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev honoured the Party chief of Viet Nam with the Order of Dostyk (Friendship) of the First Class, a noble award from the Kazakh State and people.

During their meetings, leaders of the two countries applauded the unceasingly expanded and strengthened friendship and cooperation over the past years. They engaged in in-depth discussions about measures for promoting bilateral ties in the time ahead, along with some regional and international issues of shared concern.

They affirmed that Viet Nam and Kazakhstan are highly important partners of each other in Southeast Asia and Central Asia. They agreed to boost mutually beneficial cooperation in multiple areas and further develop bilateral relations in the time ahead.

The leaders perceived that developing and intensifying the Viet Nam  Kazakhstan relations meet the common interests of the two peoples while contributing to peace, stability, and development in the regions and the world.

During the visit, the two sides issued a joint statement on the establishment of the Vietnam  Kazakhstan Strategic Partnership.

The General Secretarys state visit to Kazakhstan is significant to enhancing the traditional friendship and shaping a new cooperation framework between the two countries. It also opens up a bright prospect of fruitful and result-oriented cooperation between Vietnam and Kazakhstan for the sake of the two peoples, and for regional peace, stability, and development.  VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nam attaches importance to its relations with the US  one of its biggest trading partners, Vice Chairman of the National Assembly (NA) Tran Quang Phuong told a visiting delegation from the US Congresss US-China Economic and Security Review Commission (USCC) led by its Chair Reva Price on Wednesday.

Phuong hailed the delegation's visit amid the 30th anniversary of the two countries' relations, affirming that Viet Nam appreciates the USs support for a strong, independent, resilient, and prosperous Viet Nam.

Speaking highly of the support from both the Democratic and Republican Parties for the development of bilateral relations, he proposed the two countries' parliaments increase mutual visits between their lawmakers and strengthen coordination to facilitate the expansion and intensification of cooperation in all areas of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The NA Vice Chairman stated that the new relationship framework has created additional momentum and space for collaboration across all channels and sectors, including parliamentary diplomacy and breakthrough areas such as innovation, artificial intelligence, and human resources training.

He called on Price and USCC members to back the recognition of Viet Nams market economy status as well as the early removal of Viet Nam from the D1 and D3 strategic export control lists.

The USCC delegation members noted that Viet Nam is an important partner of the US in the region, and agreed with the hosts view on the importance of the two countries' Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

They pledged efforts to promote bilateral relations and cooperation to deliver tangible benefits to the people and businesses of both countries.  VNS
BAKU  Following a state visit to Kazakhstan, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Viet Nam (CPV) Central Committee To Lam and his spouse, accompanied by a high-ranking Vietnamese delegation, arrived at Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku on the afternoon of May 7 (local time), officially beginning a two-day state visit to Azerbaijan at the invitation of President Ilham Aliyev.

Viet Nam and Azerbaijan enjoy a long-standing traditional friendship, with diplomatic relations formally established on September 23, 1992. In recent years, bilateral economic and trade cooperation has seen strong growth. Viet Nam primarily exports computers, phones and components, and seafood to Azerbaijan, while importing crude oil and petroleum products.

Azerbaijan has recently embraced more open policies, offering Viet Nam an advantageous gateway to strengthen ties not only with Central Asian nations but also with European countries. In return, Viet Nam stands ready to act as a bridge for Azerbaijan to expand relations with East Asian partners.

This visit is the highest level trip by a Vietnamese Party and State leader to Azerbaijan since the establishment of the two countries' diplomatic ties in 1992. It is expected to further deepen bilateral cooperation, particularly in areas where Azerbaijan has strengths, particularly the oil and gas sector.  VNS
BAKU  Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and the First Lady hosted a welcome ceremony for Party General Secretary To Lam on Wednesday afternoon (local time) at the Presidential Palace in Baku.

The Vietnamese leader is on a state visit to the Republic of Azerbaijan from May 7 to 8.

Upon the arrival of the motorcade, President Aliyev and the First Lady greeted General Secretary To Lam and presented a bouquet of fresh flowers to his wife Ngo Phuong Ly.

The two leaders and their spouses then proceeded to the honourary platform.

The commander of the honour guard extended a formal salute to the Vietnamese delegation. A military band played the national anthems of both Viet Namand Azerbaijan, followed by a ceremonial military parade.

Following the parade, the two heads of state and their spouses moved inside the Presidential Palace for an official photo session.

After the welcoming ceremony, the two leaders held bilateral talks and witnessed the signing of cooperation documents.

The leaders also delivered remarks to the press.

This marks the highest-level visit by a Vietnamese Party and State leader to Azerbaijan since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1992. The visit is expected to further enhance bilateral ties, particularly in areas where Azerbaijan hold strengths.

Viet Nam and Azerbaijan officially established diplomatic ties on September 23, 1992.

In recent years, bilateral economic and trade cooperation has seen strong growth. Viet Nam primarily exports computers, phones and components, and seafood to Azerbaijan, while importing crude oil and petroleum products.

Azerbaijan has recently embraced more open policies, offering Viet Nam an advantageous gateway to strengthen ties not only with Central Asian nations but also with European countries. In return, Viet Nam stands ready to act as a bridge for Azerbaijan to expand relations with East Asian partners.

The ongoing state visit by Party General Secretary To Lam is the highest-level visit by a Vietnamese Party and State leader to Azerbaijan since the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations.

The visit is expected to further bolster bilateral ties, particularly in key areas where Azerbaijan holds competitive advantages, such as the oil and gas sector.  VNS
QUANG NAM  Lifestart Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation based in Hoi An and originating from Australia, has recently donated ten more clean water filtration systems and water tanks to ten underprivileged schools in mountainous areas of the central province Quang Nam.

This latest initiative targets schools in the rural mountainous districts of Phuoc Son, Que Son, and Thang Binh, of which six schools are in Phuoc Son and three other schools in Que Son and a Secondary School in Thang Binh district, also received support.

Many of these schools, especially in Phuoc Son, serve predominantly students from the Gie Trieng ethnic group and are situated in remote and challenged areas. Among them, five of the communes are designated in the extremely disadvantaged region.

Access to clean water remains a major challenge for many mountainous schools in the province. Some rely on bottled water purchased by schools or funded by students' families, and others require students to bring water from home. Due to limited financial resources, these schools often cannot afford to invest in safe drinking water infrastructure.

The newly installed water filtration systems will directly benefit over 2,200 students, teachers, and staff members during this school year.

Each system, valued at up to VN66.4 million (US$2,740), can purify up to 250 litres per hour and is capable of removing bacteria, viruses, heavy metals and other contaminants.

Many are paired with 500-litre storage tanks to ensure a continuous water supply, with the total cost of this round of installations exceeding VN472 million (more than $19,500).

Since launching the clean water initiative in 2021, Lifestart Foundation has provided 48 water filtration systems to disadvantaged schools across Quang Nam province  amounting to over VN2.2 billion ($90,000) in donations. The programme has benefitted more than 12,400 students, families and school staff to date.

Karen Leonard OAM (Order of Australia Medal), Founder of Lifestart Foundation, said: "The lack of clean drinking water in schools, especially in remote and mountainous areas, continues to affect the health and daily routines of students and teachers - particularly those in boarding schools.

"Understanding that access to safe water is essential for learning and well-being, Lifestart Foundation is committed to supporting schools in disadvantaged communities. By installing water filtration systems, we aim to improve the health and educational environment for students and staff alike, helping them focus more on their studies and daily activities in a safer, more supportive setting.

Chairman of the Quang Nam Province Union of Friendship Organisations, Tran Van Mai, noted: "Lifestart Foundations support in providing clean water filtration systems is both timely and meaningful. We hope that the recipient schools will manage and maintain these systems well to ensure long-lasting benefits. We expressed thanks to Lifestart Foundation for their generous and thoughtful contribution.

The Principal of Que Xuan 1 Primary School Nguyen Van Lanh, said: "Until now, our students had to bring drinking water from home, due to the shortage of clean water source on campus. We are sincerely grateful to Lifestart Foundation for this generous support, which ensures our students now have access to safe water daily. We are committed to maintaining the system for long-term use."

Lifestart Foundations ongoing commitment to vulnerable communities in central Viet Nam  especially children  continues to drive meaningful, lasting change.

The organisation plans to donate an additional ten systems in the near future, bringing the total number of supported schools to 58.

Lifestart Foundation said it has donated VN33 billion ($1.28 million) to support the disadvantaged young people in the central region including education scholarships for underprivileged students and housing improvement projects.  VNS
THANH HOA  Two foreigners have been detained by police as part of an investigation into the suspected desecration of the royal tomb of Emperor Le Tuc Tong, located in Kien Tho Commune, Ngoc Lac District, the central province of Thanh Hoa.

Last Saturday evening, officials from the Thanh Hoa Centre for Historical Research and Cultural Heritage Conservation discovered signs that the emperor's tomb had been disturbed.

At the site, authorities found a mobile phone with Chinese-language settings, several identity documents belonging to a Chinese citizen and a metal probing tool commonly used to search for buried artefacts.

The findings were promptly reported to the Thanh Hoa Province Police Department by the heritage centre.

Local police subsequently alerted their counterparts in Quang Ninh Province after learning that two suspects believed to be involved were attempting to flee to their country.

At approximately 2.15pm on Sunday, the Quang Ninh Police Department apprehended the two suspects: Deng Zhui, 41, and Shen Jiangyang, 43.

Both are residents of Guangxi Province in China.

The suspects were handed over to Thanh Hoa Province police for further investigation.

Preliminary findings indicate they allegedly violated laws concerning the desecration of human remains, tombs and graves. They are specifically accused of desecrating the royal tomb of Emperor Le Tuc Tong.

Le Tuc Tong (14881505), also known as Le Thuan, was the third son of Emperor Le Hien Tong.

Renowned for his intelligence and filial piety, Le Tuc Tong was appointed Crown Prince during his fathers reign.

The emperor ascended the throne in July 1504 during the Thai Trinh era, following his fathers death.

After passing away in 1505, his remains were interred at Kinh Lang in Lam Kinh, within the present-day bounds of Kien Tho Commune.

According to the ai Viet su ky toan thu (The Complete Annals of ai Viet), Emperor Le Tuc Tong was known for his virtuous character, respect for the wise and dedication to maintaining peace and stability throughout the realm. VNS
HCM CITY  A scientific seminar has helped enhance publishing capacity, share experiences in international integration, and shape sustainable development strategies for Vietnamese scientific journals according to international standards.

The HCM City Open University (HCMCOU) on May 6 held a seminar called Scholarly exchange on the inclusion of Vietnamese scientific journals in Clarivate Analytics Web of Science (WoS) and Elseviers Scopus citation systems.

The seminar serves as an in-depth academic forum, gathering representatives from reputable scientific journals both domestically and internationally, along with experts, administrators, and experienced editors in the field of scientific publishing.

It also contributes to realising policies aimed at improving the quality of scientific research and promoting comprehensive integration into the global knowledge ecosystem.

Speaking at the seminar, HCMCOU rector Nguyen Minh Ha said the seminar is part of a series of events celebrating the university's 35th anniversary.

It also aligns with the universitys development strategy to build and promote a specialised journal of the university to participate in internationally recognised citation systems such as WoS and Scopus.

In todays era of deep integration in higher education, developing scientific journals that meet international standards has become a strategic task, he said.

It not only affirms the research standing of higher education institutions but also enhances the quality of education, research, and knowledge transfer.

Renowned international citation systems like WoS and Scopus serve not only as gateways for research to reach the global academic community but also as vital indicators of a journals quality, transparency, and international integration capacity.

However, the path to being recognised and maintaining a position within these systems is long and demanding.

It requires serious investment, perseverance, professionalism, and above all, collaboration and knowledge-sharing among institutions, he said.

Ha said he looked forward to listening to and engaging in fruitful discussions - especially the valuable experiences shared by editors-in-chief of reputable Vietnamese journals that have successfully joined international citation databases such as WoS and Scopus, all within the context of the countrys legal framework and available resources.

The HCMCOU has been making unceasing efforts to improve the quality of its Journal of Science since it was established in 2006.

With seven specialised journals covering areas such as Economics and Business Administration, Engineering and Technology, Social Sciences, and Computational Structures, the university is striving to build a professional academic ecosystem that is transparent, compliant with publication ethics, technologically advanced, and well-connected internationally.

Our ultimate goal is to be part of prestigious global indexing systems, he said.

Nguyen Trong Hoai, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Asian Business and Economic Studies (JABES) of the University of Economics HCM City (UEH), said JABES (formerly known as Journal of Economic Development  JED) was established in 2018, with JABES-E in English and JABES-V in Vietnamese.

JABES pursues the orientation of sustainable development and innovation in accordance with UEH's strategy.

It is an international peer-reviewed quarterly journal addressing the development of business and economics.

Hoai said it is necessary to join the Viet Nam Citation Index (VCI) with a technology platform for journal management that is invested in and systematically built to gather Vietnamese scientific journals in both Vietnamese and English versions.

It needs to establish a Vietnamese Publishing House that meets international standards to gather Vietnamese scientific journals in the Vietnamese context but complying with international standards he said.

Encouraging and sponsoring Vietnamese scientific journals with a strategy to join Scopus are also needed, he added.

Representatives from the journals VJCS and METS shared their experiences in bringing their journals into prestigious international citation systems and the Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI).  VNS
NEW DELHI  The Indian government on Wednesday confirmed carrying out air strikes on nine identified "terrorist-training camps" located in the Pakistan-controlled Kashmir.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally monitored the air strikes, according to Indian media reports.

The air strikes were carried out under "Operation Sindoor", which was dedicated to the women whose husbands were killed in the Pahalgam area of the Indian-controlled Kashmir on April 22, the reports said.

A total of 26 people were killed in last month attack, which was described as the worst attack on tourists in the Indian-controlled Kashmir in past several decades. The incident led to escalating tensions between the two South Asian nations.

India's Ministry of Defence said in a press release that the Indian armed forces launched "Operation Sindoor", hitting "terrorist infrastructure" in Pakistan and the Pakistan-controlled Kashmir from where "terror attacks" against India had been planned and directed.

"Altogether nine sites have been targeted. Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India had demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution," said the statement.

It added these steps came in the wake of the Pahalgam attack on tourists in the Indian-controlled Kashmir on April 22, in which 25 Indian and one Nepali citizen were killed.

Meanwhile, one of the biggest private airlines in India, IndiGo posted on X that its flights to and from certain airports located near international border with Pakistan had been impacted.

On Wednesday, the director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations, the media wing of the Pakistan Army, said that at least eight civilians, including a child, were killed, 35 others injured and two missing after India fired missiles at multiple locations in the Pakistan-controlled Kashmir.

Pakistan shoots down 5 Indian jets

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has shot down another Indian jet in response to Indian missile strikes at six locations in Pakistan, sources from the Pakistani military said on Wednesday.

This was the fifth Indian jet that has been shot down in response to the Indian overnight strikes, said the military sources, adding that four Indian quadcopters were destroyed at two locations in Pakistan for violating the country's airspace.

Pakistan condemned India's unprovoked and blatant act of war and violation of Pakistan's sovereignty.

In a statement, Pakistani Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan said that the Indian Air Force has violated Pakistan's sovereignty using standoff weapons, targeting civilian population across international border in Bahawalpur and Sheikhupura districts in Pakistan's eastern Punjab province, as well as Muzaffarabad, Bagh, and Kotli districts in the Pakistan-controlled Kashmir. XINHUA
Vietnam has witnessed the establishment of major software development campuses mainly in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Danang, employing thousands of young Vietnamese software engineers who have gained valuable international exposure working for these major foreign IT companies.

(L-R) Eric Douglas Johnson, partner and Phan Duy Thang, associate Freshfields LLP

As this labour force matured and developed their skills, they then became the key driving force behind the countrys rapid growth in AI sector. This is evidenced by a drastic increase in the number of AI startups in Vietnam over the last several years and as well as a small but noticeable increase in venture capital investments into a handful of leading AI start-up companies in Vietnam.

For example, the recent acquisitions of MovianAI by Qualcomm, VinBrain by Nvidia, and NashTech by PAG, as well as a number of venture rounds into emerging companies like OKXE, AI Hay, and Fillum AI underscores the trend: Vietnam is becoming a serious player in the global AI ecosystem, and global tech giants and financial investors are taking note.

The Vietnamese government has long recognised the importance of AI application, and its pivotal role in supporting the development of AI sector. In 2021, the Vietnamese government issued a national strategy on research, development, and application of AI, which aims to position Vietnam as a leading AI innovation hub in ASEAN by 2030.

The governments support has not declined over the years. On April 23, the Ministry of Finance, National Innovation Centre, and Vietnam Private Capital Agency hosted an innovation and private capital summit to promote semiconductor and AI industries in Vietnam.

This has clearly demonstrated that the Vietnamese government is open to listening and supporting this growing sector, including by building a supportive legal environment and investing in technological infrastructure.

It is expected that in 2025, the National Assembly will adopt the Law on Digital Technology, with a dedicated section on AI and a dedicated section on regulatory sandbox. The government is considering establishing a fund that focuses on financing innovative small- and medium-sized enterprises.

As the legal infrastructure and talent pools grow, so will the companies operating in this sector, which will lead to new opportunities for foreign investors. Data from Statista shows 2024 marks the third consecutive year Vietnam has exceeded the global average compound annual growth rate, reflecting its significant strides in AI and its emergence as a key player in the regions tech landscape.

In the midst of various trade disruptions and negotiations across the globe, it is difficult enough to predict what tomorrow will bring, let alone annual trends. Setting the current uncertainty aside, however, we doubt that ambitious and entrepreneurial Vietnamese founders will stop innovating.

It is also important to note that to the extent these companies are exporting, they are exporting services, which seem to have been spared in the current ongoing trade disputes.

It will be important to see more examples of the types of high-profile transactions in the market mentioned above, and perhaps more importantly for financial investors, to see examples of successful exits, whether by way of trade sales, secondaries, or initial public offerings.

We remain optimistic that the AI and tech sectors in Vietnam will continue to develop and to present compelling opportunities for foreign investors.
In 2024, the government has also issued Decree 182 on the establishment, management, and utilisation of the Investment Support Fund. The Investment Support Fund will offer up to 50 per cent of initial investment costs for semiconductors and AI investors with research and development projects.

These bold moves have swiftly and powerfully shifted the tone around AI towards big investment, calculated risk taking, and the drive to win with the best AI development and real-life outcomes for business and society. It should provide another catalyst for manufacturing leaders to think more about their own AI investment strategy, even in the face of tough times, fluctuating demand, and geopolitics.

Christanto Suryadarma, sales vice president for Southeast Asia, South Korea, and Channel APJeC at Zebra Technologies

Manufacturers data conundrum

Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Manh Hung emphasised that AI is the core technology of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which is true. However, the use cases and compliance requirements for pharmaceuticals, automotives, and food are high and require more advanced AI such as deep learning and 3D scan software to handle them.

These AI ambitions are naturally tied to the need for data  lots of high value, good quality data, which we see in manufacturing across many processes. To unlock AIs full potential, industries will need to collaborate and federate their data in secure, structured ways. Creating safe environments for data sharing is becoming a priority, as AI thrives not only on competition but also on cooperation. Globally, there is a push for accessible, privacy-preserving data infrastructures. For example, initiatives like publicly accessible high-value datasets and proposals for national data libraries are being explored to support research, innovation, and responsible AI development.

This reminds us of the challenge manufacturers face within their companies. A recent piece of research by Zebra Technologies found that among machine vision leaders in the automotive industry, almost 20 per cent in Germany and the UK say their AI machine vision could be working better or doing more. The same concern applies in Vietnam, where the success of AI-driven solutions depends heavily on the quality and availability of data. For AI solutions to achieve their potential, the question of data must be addressed.

Zebra Machine Vision solution for the manufacturing industry

The volume of data being created at the edge of business can be turned into value. That could be data for training and testing AI models, or acting as feedback to refine processes around manufacturing and inspection. Once data and AI are integrated, the path to process automation  with smart cameras, sensors, and vision-guided robotics  becomes a reality, allowing leaders to reallocate valuable connected frontline workers to growth-focused areas.

However, manufacturing sites and regions can operate in silos, with little to no sharing of data, even for identical or similar workflows. Experience and time available can vary between teams and sites, which can make achieving data quality more challenging, compounded by struggling to hire the right talent with the right skills and experience.

Data needs to be stored, annotated, and used for training models in a consistent way, with other data sets needed for model testing. It makes no sense for company data to remain siloed, to the detriment of better training for AI.

How are manufacturers to achieve this if they cannot leverage all the data available to them across sites, countries, and regions? How much growth potential and workforce productivity are being lost? The hesitancy around the cloud due to privacy, security, and intellectual property needs to be overcome. A cloud-based solution would allow users to securely upload, label, and annotate data from multiple manufacturing locations across a site, country, and region and deliver scalability and accessibility of computing power.

The options for getting AI solutions working better and doing more are available, whatever the use case might be. There are software, cameras, and sensors for use cases including electric battery and semiconductor inspection, fresh food sortation, packaging compliance and quality, serial number and character reading, and defect detection for automotive parts and finished items.

However, AI working better or doing more needs to be measured with appropriate timelines, return on investment metrics, and quality data. Alongside data management transformation, intelligent automation and greater asset visibility require appropriate implementations, workforce training and operational adjustments which take time. Other AI solutions take a low/no code approach, and come ready out of the box, delivering a faster return on investment.

In praise of middle management

Who can shift the tone and lead the drive to win when it comes to AI within manufacturing companies? Recent research by McKinsey highlighted that many millennials aged 35 to 44 are managers and team leaders in their companies, i.e. middle managers. They are on the frontline of business, walking the factory floor, and acting as the bridge between the connected frontline workers and senior leadership. These middle managers report having the most experience and enthusiasm about AI, with 62 per cent of employees between the ages of 35 and 44 reporting high levels of expertise with AI.

Its time to unlock AIs full potential in manufacturing

Separate research found that only 30 per cent of business leaders (CEOs, presidents, other C-suite executives, senior vice presidents, and executive vice presidents) increase resourcing for growth initiatives in core, adjacent, or new businesses during periods of volatility. Only 29 per cent said they invest 30 per cent or more of their time on long-term growth initiatives.

Middle managers are a key talent pool senior leaders should leverage to answer questions like how AI, such as deep learning machine vision, can help accelerate through a challenging market and drive long-term growth, elevate productivity, automate processes, and improve quality.

Despite the initial reaction to contract and pause projects in the face of hard times, now might be the right moment to rethink the role middle management plays when it comes to prioritising growth and acting boldly with AI and machine vision. By empowering connected frontline workers and ensuring asset visibility, middle managers can drive meaningful change and unlock AIs full potential in manufacturing.

Theres no more time for hype when it comes to AI Christanto Suryadarma, sales vice president for Southeast Asia, South Korea and Channel APJeC, Zebra Technologies, speaks about AI development.

Santan, Soft Space take inflight retail to new heights Santan, the inflight catering and food and beverage subsidiary of Capital A, in collaboration with Soft Space Sdn. Bhd. (Soft Space), the world's leading fintech-as-a-service (FaaS) provider, on January 9 announced a major upgrade to its inflight retail solution, Fasspos.

Zebra Technologies hosts summit in Danang Zebra Technologies Corporation, a mobile computing company specialising in smart data capture, hosted its 2025 Regional Partner Summit in Danang March 5.

Zebra Technologies announces new strategy for 2025 in Vietnam Zebra Technologies Corporation, a global leader in digitising and automating frontline workers, is looking to expand in Vietnam by anchoring on an extensive network of partners, continued investment, and a comprehensive portfolio of solutions.

(*) Christanto Suryadarma, sales vice president for Southeast Asia, South Korea, and Channel APJeC at Zebra Technologies
The event was held in Kazakhstan's capital, Astana, on May 6 in the presence of Party General Secretary To Lam as part of his state visit to the country.

During the event, Vietnam's Ministry of Finance granted a Foreign Investment Registration Certificate to Aviation Holdings, a subsidiary of Vietjet, authorising its acquisition of a strategic equity stake in Qazaq Air. The move marks a key milestone in Vietjets international expansion strategy and aims to deepen bilateral ties between Vietnam and Kazakhstan across aviation, economic, and cultural domains, while opening a new chapter for the aviation industry in Central Asia.

Under the partnership, the two parties will jointly develop and operate Vietjet Qazaqstan, building on the existing Qazaq Air platform. As a new-age low-cost airline, Vietjet Qazaqstan is expected to become a strategic air bridge connecting Kazakhstan with Vietnam, Southeast Asia, and global aviation hubs.

The airline will meet the growing travel demand in Kazakhstan while boosting cross-border tourism, trade, and logistics throughout Asia. It also aims to support local socioeconomic growth through the creation of thousands of high-quality jobs.

Also at the event, Vietjet Qazaqstan and Boeing signed a Customer Services General Terms Agreement to support the future Boeing 737 fleet operated by Vietjet Qazaqstan. Under the agreement, Boeing will provide comprehensive services including software solutions, spare parts supply, technical assistance, as well as training courses for pilots and engineers. The partnership also covers aircraft modifications and upgrades to ensure efficient and safe operations.

Vietjet Qazaqstan is set to operate a fleet of at least 20 Boeing 737 aircraft, enabling a strong expansion of its domestic and international route network. The airline will adopt modern operating models, digital management systems, and advanced training for its workforce, with ongoing technical and operational support from Vietjet.

Vietjets investment in Kazakhstan includes technology transfer, infrastructure upgrades, and workforce training initiatives. The project aims to enhance regional aviation competitiveness and connectivity, with potential economic benefits for both countries.

Masan Consumer and Vietjet cooperate to bring CHIN-SU Pho Story to the world Masan Consumer and Vietjet signed a deal on December 4 to bring CHIN-SU Pho Story on board during Vietjets domestic and international flights.

Vietjet and OpenAirlines partner on flight fuel efficiency Vietnam's budget airline Vietjet on February 6 signed a strategic partnership agreement with OpenAirlines, a global leader in airline fuel efficiency solutions leveraging AI, continuing the airlines journey of flight operations optimisation.
If your mother is no longer alive, what were her last words to you?

Did she say she loved you? Did she say goodbye? Or was it something more casual? Was she coherent of the magnitude of the situation?

My mom passed away two years ago and Ive been asking myself this question since her last breath, which took place in my presence.

I had just placed a yellow tulip next to her pillow on a bed inside her hospice room. It was an early Mothers Day gift, continuing a tradition I started as a child with a stolen tulip from a neighbors yard. I knew my mother would not be around a month later for her special holiday. In fact, she wouldnt be around just a minute later.

While pondering that stolen moment, I looked over to my mom and noticed her left index finger moving. It was just a twitch, but until that time she had made no movements since she was admitted into a local hospice near my home.

No words. No movements. Nothing.

I jumped up from my chair and grabbed my phone to capture the moment. I didnt want to miss anything.

Hi, Mom. Are you there? I asked while video recording her reaction.

I was the only family member in her room at the time after 11 days of round-the-clock vigils to never leave her alone. She was present for every milestone in our lives, from family births to couples weddings to relatives deaths. My entire family felt compelled to be present for her last days. We took turns spending the night in her room. During the day, everyone returned to be together, sharing meals and memories near her bed.

We talked to her as if she was listening because we hoped she was. We also laughed, cried and shared our days as she peacefully rested.

Your mom is tired, a doctor told me in a hospital hallway. I knew what he was trying to tell me without actually telling me. It was time.

The last day at the hospice center, I didnt know that moment at her bedside would be my final exchange with my mom. Her finger didnt move again but her eyes opened a bit more. Her head moved ever so slightly. Her mouth closed then opened once more.

A second later, my mom took her final breath of life before beginning her journey into death.

My mother believed that the end of her life would come with a comma, not a period. As a longtime student of quantum physics and spiritual dimensions, she believed everything is happening all at once on endless planes of existence.

As I stared into her empty eyes, I kissed her forehead, twice, just as she did with my big brother when he died in 2009. We said goodbye to him in a hospital emergency room. I just stared at his body. But my mother knew what to do, leaning down to kiss his forehead, twice, and say I love you.

My similar goodbye to my mom felt like the right thing to do, possibly a new family tradition amid the threshold of love, tears and grief.

She died April 22, 2023, at 12:06 p.m., reflecting her birth date, 12/06. Every day she was in the hospital or hospice, she was never alone. And, in turn, we will never be alone in our lives. Her memory will always be with us, around the clock. (Read my multi-part series at NWI.com.)

But for the life of me, I cant recall her last verbal words to me. Ive been thinking about this for two years. Was it something she mentioned in her home? Or in the car ride to the ER? Or at the hospital? Its been haunting me like a ghost that only I can see.

On the recent anniversary date of my mothers death, I asked my social media readers the same question: What were your mothers last words to you? They shared dozens of responses, including Thank you, Please visit me after Im gone, Go do you now, Do you have to go? and Youre a good nurse.

Other remembrances from friends were, Its raining, drive careful, I dont have any pain Tell your siblings to visit me and See you tomorrow. (Read them all on my Facebook page.)

Though I cant recall my moms final words, I deeply feel her lasting legacy of love for my family. We continue to talk about her every day. We think of her every moment. We share photos and memories of her on a family group text thread. Some make us laugh. Some make us cry.

This is the beauty and the heartbreak of losing a mother or a father.

My mom may be gone, but her gentle voice can be heard in my head any time I want or need it. If your mom is still in your life, I strongly suggest you listen to what she tells you, even if it seems meaningless at times. Someday, her words will mean more than you may think.
We must never forget: Senedd comes together to mark 80th anniversary of VE Day

This article is old - Published: Wednesday, May 7th, 2025

Wales first minister led tributes to the sacrifices of past generations as the Senedd marked the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.

Eluned Morgan gave a statement ahead of VE Day on May 8, which marks 80 years since Allied victory over Nazi Germany during the Second World War.

She told the Senedd: This wasnt just another date in the history books. This was a moment that changed lives  that changed Wales  that changed our world.

For us in Wales, this wasnt some distant battlefield victory. This touched every street, every village, every family. Over 15,000 Welsh people never came home. Thousands more returned with wounds, both visible and hidden. We must never forget them.

Baroness Morgan also acknowledged Victory over Japan (VJ) Day on August 15, when the Second World War came to an end, during her statement on May 6.

War brought terror to Wales

The first minister said: Think about what our communities endured  loved ones gone for years, strict rationing and the terror of bombs falling.

This wasnt a far-away war; it brought terror to Wales, in particular through the Blitz and its raids on the ports of south Wales and Pembroke Dock.

My own fathers house took a direct hit in Tremorfa in Cardiff docks, it was utterly obliterated and luckily theyd just reached the Anderson shelter in time.

Whilst my mother until very recently talked about the one stray bomb that landed near the playground in St Davids in Pembrokeshire. Can you imagine what that day felt like 80 years ago, the sheer relief and joy that swept across Wales?

Baroness Morgan will attend a service at Llandaff Cathedral tomorrow then she will join prime minister Keir Starmer at Westminster Abbey on VE Day itself.

Everyone played their part

The Welsh Labour leader said: What I find most powerful about this anniversary is how it reminds us that our victory wasnt just Welsh or British  it was a global effort.

People from every corner of the world came together to defeat the darkness of Nazism. That diversity is now reflected in who we are as a nation and we should celebrate that.

The contribution didnt just come from those in uniform. Think about the women working in factories, the Bevin Boys down our mines, the Land Army keeping us fed, the Merchant Navy keeping supplies flowing  everyone played their part.

Darren Millar, leader of the Conservative Senedd group, urged the Welsh Government to invest more in an effort to make Wales the most veteran-friendly country in the world.

He called for the role of veterans commissioner for Wales to be made a permanent role, with the UK Government appointment set to expire at the end of the year.

Frightening

Rhys ab Owen, an independent, also expressed concerns about the plight of veterans.

I met one the other day, shes been living under a bridge in Merthyr, said Mr ab Owen, a former barrister. Ive seen too many in courtrooms and in prisons.

Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth expressed concerns about the frightening increase of right-wing extremism today, globally and within Wales.

He said: These dangerous ideologies are a threat to the values of democracy, equality and freedom which were defended by the bravery of those who fought in the Second World War.

It is crucial that we all unite  against the development of hatred and extremism, we must stand firm against these forces just as our forebearers did in the battle against fascism.

Togetherness

Baroness Morgan responded: Im also concerned about the rise in right-wing ideologies, I think we can tolerate a lot of things apart from intolerance.

She added: This is a generation that has not experienced, directly, the impact of war and so it is so important for us to pass stories on to make sure they understand you cannot take peace for granted. Were able to live today because of the sacrifice of people yesterday.

Joyce Watson paid tribute to Patti Flynn, a remarkable woman who fought for 26 years to get a monument in Cardiff to honour minority ethnic people who fought for the country.

Mike Hedges, another Labour backbencher, remarked that the debate showed the Senedd at its best, with Baroness Morgan agreeing.

In closing, the first minister said: This has been a really good-natured debate there are times when togetherness is important and today is one of those occasions where we come together and understand that we can achieve more together than we can divided.

By Chris Haines, ICNN Senedd reporter
This article is old - Published: Wednesday, May 7th, 2025

Ahead of the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day the MP for Wrexham has paid tribute to the countys military heritage and its importance in local history.

Tomorrow, May 8, marks 80 years since the Allied forces acceptance of Nazi Germanys unconditional surrender in 1945, marking the end of World War II in Europe.

Speaking ahead of several commemorative events taking place in Wrexham tomorrow  including a special ceremony at St Giles  Andrew Ranger MP paid tribute to the work of the Hightown Barracks and the importance of taking time to reflect, commemorate and remember.

In 2027 we will mark 150 years since the establishment of the Hightown Barracks in Wrexham.

The symbol of the proud military history of our city.

In both World War One and World War Two, the Barracks were the site of regimental basic training before new recruits were deployed.

This is particularly poignant as this week marks the 80th Anniversary of VE Day.

On a recent visit to Hightown Barracks, I met with Colonel Nick Lock to explore the work of the Hightown Barracks today.

It was saved in 2013 after a huge community effort led by former MP Ian Lucas and local councillors Graham Rogers and Brian Cameron amongst many others, including myself.

I was struck by Colonel Locks description of the pride that

Wrexham feels in its connection with the Royal Welsh Fusiliers, embodied by the campaign to save the barracks.

Colonel Lock and I also discussed the difficulties our armed forces currently face after years of cuts and in the context of a rapidly changing global situation.

As a former Air Cadet myself and having met current cadets, serving personnel and veterans, I understand the value of a military career, the skills that are developed but also the challenges that can be faced when that career ends.

Earlier this year I was proud to be a member of the bill committee for the Armed Forces Commissioner Bill.

The Commissioner will be a direct point of contact for personnel and their families to raise service issues affecting their lives, from kit, to housing, to childcare.

The independent Commissioner will have proper powers to investigate issues affecting service life, make recommendations, and report to Parliament.

They will also have access to personnel, information, and to defence sites. And we want them to hold us to account, too.

According to the House of Commons Library, there are an estimated 3,450 households in Wrexham who have at least one military veteran.

Veteran support is crucial, which is why the UK Government has launched the VALOUR system to ensure easier access to essential care and support.

For most service personnel, a career in the Armed Forces sets them up for success and can be a great tool for social mobility.

VALOUR aims to help unlock veterans full potential and foster the enterprising spirit of veteran charities.

And where Veterans have complex needs, Valour will help ensure the support on offer is data driven and better tailored to their need.

VALOUR is backed by 50 million of funding, which will help ensure that every veteran, regardless of where they live, can access joined up support.

That funding will establish a new network of VALOUR-recognised support centres in every nation of the UK and deploy Regional Field Officers to connect local, regional and national services  using data to shape better services.

As we mark 80 years since Victory in Europe this week, our grateful nation looks forward to joining our brave Armed Forces and veterans to reflect, commemorate and remember.

We are deeply proud of our Armed Forces personnel, veterans, and the families who support them, for the contribution they make to our country.

Theirs is the ultimate public service.

These are serious times, with war in Europe, conflict in the Middle East, growing Russian aggression and increasing global instability.

The lessons of the Second World War where countries and peoples came together to defeat fascism and defend our freedoms must never be forgotten.
The Black Rock Field Office, in coordination with Friends of Black Rock-High Rock, Friends of Nevada Wilderness, and Stewards of the Black Rock Desert, is hosting the 2025 Black Rock Rendezvous in the Black Rock Desert.

The event will focus on public land stewardship, education, and outdoor recreation.

This family-friendly, 'Leave No Trace' campout includes guest speakers, planned activities, guided tours highlighting the regions recreational, natural, and cultural features, and multiple stewardship projects.

Organizers say these projects will involve installing fences, placing signs, and repairing wilderness boundary signage.

The event will also include two evening gatherings: a potluck and dutch oven cook-off on one night, followed by a community potluck and campfire trivia on another night.

The basecamp for the event will be set up on the playa just north of the 12-mile access point near Cassidy Mine Road.

Attendees are expected to be self-sufficient and bring at least one gallon of water per person per day.

Organizers noted that an alternative location may be used if weather conditions impact access to the playa.

RSVPs are not required but are encouraged. Event information, updates, and registration details are available at the Friends of Nevada Wilderness Website.
Make-A-Wish Nevada fulfilled the wish of a four-year-old boy named Conner Bigrigg, who has been battling a severe respiratory disorder for over two years.

Conner's wish was fulfilled on Tuesday after the organization learned about his story almost six months ago.

Conner came into his backyard on Tuesday to find many people there to cheer him on and present him a brand-new playhouse.

It took a lot of planning to get this done, and this is no ordinary playhouse.

The playhouse features two stories, a slide, flat screen television, a table and chairs, and it even has insulation.

It was an emotional experience for many, including Conner's mother who was brought to tears seeing the joy on Conner's face.

"My heart is just so full of gratitude and I just, today was magical and it is amazing, I just don't even have words for how grateful we are," said Callie Bigrigg, Conner's Mother.

This surprise came at a good time, as Conner recently returned from Salt Lake City where he underwent a major back surgery.

Over the last few years, Conner has been through a lot, and doctors even once said that he may never walk or talk again.

On Tuesday, he was running around with his brother Gunner, enjoying his new playhouse, and his parents are looking forward to seeing their boys enjoy it for years to come.
Northern Nevada HOPES has teamed up with UnitedHealthcare to launch a new maternal health program for pregnant women engaged in substance abuse.

The program is set to open in July 2025, and is made possible through a $708,092 donation from UnitedHealthcare Health Plan of Nevada Medicaid.

Pull Quote "Our partnership with UnitedHealthcare is vital in expanding life-saving maternal care. As our country faces higher rates of maternal and infant risks, were thrilled to deliver this support to those who need it most." -Dr. Faith Whittier, Chief Medical Officer at Northern Nevada HOPES

The program aims to expand access to maternal and infant health services with a dedicated focus on supporting moms with drug use issues, to help ensure the health of both the baby and the mother.

Organizers say the donation will help boost access to comprehensive care for preventable conditions like gestational diabetes, preterm labor and preeclampsia.

If you're interested in becoming a patient or would just like to learn more, call Northern Nevada HOPES at (775) 786-4673 or visit the HOPES website.
California State Parks is looking to restore a building that's almost 100 years old in the Lake Tahoe Basin.

Restoration work on the historic castle will start next week.

The Vikingsholm building is at Emerald Bay State Park.

The Lake Tahoe Basin brings in millions of visitors every single year and California State Parks says the Vikingsholm is typically on the top of a lot of visitors' lists.

It adds a lot of rich history to the area, history that spans almost a century.

"It was Lauren Knights Estate built in 1929," said Kaytlen Jackson, Public Information Officer for the Sierra District, California State Parks. "In 1928, the year prior, she took a trip to Scandinavia with her son-in-law who ended up being the architect for this building and they were inspired by Scandinavian architecture."

The castle didn't take as long as you would expect for it to be built.

"She brought more than 200 masons, carpenters, and other crafts people to build the home over the course of a single summer," Jackson said.

This tourist attraction brings out many sightseers.

"There's a lot of really unique features," Jackson said. "A lot of beautiful carvings and paintings throughout the home. I feel like everywhere you look there's something new to see. It's just beautiful nestled here in Emerald Bay."

However, one event is now making California State Parks restore the historic Vikingsholm.

"In 2021, there was a 4.2 magnitude earthquake in the area that caused a lot of the building to shift," Jackson said.

The restoration project will be split into two parts.

"The first phase we are going to focus on the turret and the chimneys," Jackson said. "The turret requires stabilization. They're going to excavate the foundation and stabilize it with concrete grade beams. they're also going to replace the stone veneer on the exterior of the turret."

The chimneys will see their cracked bricks replaced and they will also seal some of the cracks so water doesn't seep into the house.

The second phase is focused on the morning room.

"The morning room is made up completely of stone and so they're going to be stabilizing that room, fixing the plaster on the interior of the building," Jackson said. "So, there's quite a few cracks that need to be restored and then finally a paint conservator is going to come in and restore the motif on the ceiling of the room."

Despite the restoration work, visitors will still be able to tour the historic castle, they just may have to avoid the work that's being done.

The restoration project looks to be finished by the end of summer or beginning of fall.
AARP is supporting bipartisan legislation on Capitol Hill that could provide some financial relief to the growing number of adults who care for aging parents.

The Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act was introduced May 1 by U.S. Sens. Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) and Bill Cassidy (R-L.A.). It would allow caregivers to use their tax-free flexible spending or health savings accounts (FSAs and HSAs) to pay for qualified medical expenses of their parent or parent-in-law.

Members only

Under existing law, FSAs and HSAs can be used only to pay for one's own medical expenses or those of a spouse or for expenses incurred by dependents claimed on their taxes. The proposed bill would broaden that eligibility to include parents and parents-in-law, regardless of whether they are claimed as dependents.

Join Our Fight for Caregivers Sign up to become part of AARP's online advocacy network and help family caregivers get the support they need.

Nancy LeaMond, AARP chief advocacy and engagement officer, said in a letter to the bill's sponsors on May 1, that the bipartisan legislation would help alleviate the financial challenges that millions of family caregivers experience every day, especially those in the sandwich generation who are caring for their parents and their own children.

Allowing caregivers to use the hard-earned dollars they have saved for health expenses to care for their parents is not only the right approach from a fiscal perspective, it reflects our cherished American values of family and self-reliance, LeaMond wrote.

People taking care of a loved one spend an average of more than $7,200 a year out of their own pocket on caregiving, an AARP survey found.

In January, Representatives Vern Buchanan (R-FL) and Mike Thompson (D-CA) introduced companion legislation to the Senate bill.

Learn How AARP Is Fighting for You AARP is your fierce defender on the issues that matter to people 50-plus. Read more bout how we fight for you every day in Congress and across the country.

Advocating for caregiving

AARP has long fought for laws and policies that would offer more support to the nations over 48 million family caregivers. Family caregivers provide an estimated $600 billion in unpaid labor each year. They help with everything from meals and medical care to bathing, dressing, providing transportation and more.

AARP is also supporting bipartisan legislation that would provide a federal tax credit of up to $5,000 a year to help eligible working family caregivers defray the costs of caring for a spouse or other loved one with long-term needs. The Credit for Caregiving Act was reintroduced in Congress in March. AARP is also seeking similar tax breaks at the state level, such as one proposed in Illinois, which would give eligible caregivers a non-refundable tax credit for expenses like home care aides and home modifications.

AARP also offers support and information for family caregivers as they navigate those responsibilities, including our financial caregiving guide. Learn more about AARP's resources for family caregivers.


Appointment of Joint Chief Financial Officers

Perth, May 6, 2025 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Vertex Minerals Limited ( ASX:VTX ) ( VTXXF:OTCMKTS ) is pleased to announce the appointment of Vince Fayad and Kurt Laney as Joint Chief Financial Officers (CFO) of the Company.



HIGHLIGHTS:



- Appointment of Vince Fayad and Kurt Laney as Joint Chief Financial Officers



- Both bring extensive experience in the public company sector, with a strong focus on the mining industry



- Focus on processes and controls to support the growth and development of the Company



- Based in Sydney



Vince and Kurt bring a wealth of experience in both the mining and public company sectors. Their combined experience, together with their broader expertise in handling larger trading entities, will be invaluable as the Company progresses towards its next stage of production. Vince and Kurt will work alongside the management team at Hill End, with a particular focus on supporting the evolution of the Company's processes and controls across the accounting, finance and treasury functions as Vertex transitions to production.



Both Kurt and Vince are Chartered Accountants and their experience includes:



- Vince has over 40 years' experience in corporate finance, international M&A, accounting and other advisory related services in Sydney-based mid-tier accounting firms. His experience ranges from provision of corporate, accounting and secretarial services, together with strong commercial acumen particularly, in the planning and execution and of development strategies for projects as well as acquisition skills.



- Kurt is an experienced Chartered Accountant with over ten years of experience specialising in the provision of accounting for publicly listed companies, taxation, and corporate secretarial services.



Vince brings extensive public company experience, including his current role as Executive Director and Joint Company Secretary of Astute Metals NL ( ASX:ASE ). Kurt also serves as CFO and Joint Company Secretary of ASE. Over the past decade, both Vince and Kurt have held Joint CFO and Company Secretary roles across several other ASX-listed companies.



Executive Chairman Roger Jackson commented, "I am delighted with the appointment of Vince and Kurt. They bring not only a strong degree of financial acumen, but also have extensive public company experience and, being Sydney-based, will integrate well with our project team and operations. These skills will be invaluable as the Company moves forward. I look forward to working with Vince and Kurt".





About Vertex Minerals Limited





Vertex Minerals Limited (ASX:VTX) is an Australian based gold exploration company developing its advanced Hargraves and Hill End gold projects located in the highly prospective Eastern Lachlan Fold Belt of Central West NSW. Other Company assets include the Pride of Elvire gold project and Taylors Rock gold/nickel/lithium project both located in the Eastern Goldfields of WA. The focus of Vertex Minerals is to advance the commercial production of gold from its NSW projects embracing an ethical and environmentally sustainable approach.

Related Companies
Operation Sindoor: India Strikes 9 Terror Camps in Pakistan and PoK, Sharif Cries 'Act of War' 2

In a decisive military retaliation to the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, India launched Operation Sindoor early Wednesday, targeting nine terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), including key hubs of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The strikes were carried out with precision missiles and were described by the Ministry of Defence as focused, measured, and non-escalatory.

Among the targets were JeMs headquarters in Bahawalpur and LeTs base in Muridke, both located in Pakistans Punjab province. The operation was launched two weeks after 26 people, including one Nepali national, were killed in a terror attack in Pahalgam, South Kashmiran incident that triggered widespread outrage in India and globally.

The defence ministry clarified that no Pakistani military facilities were hit, underscoring Indias deliberate and restrained approach. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution, the official statement read. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had previously granted the military full operational freedom, closely monitored the strikes.

Following the attacks, Pakistans Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the strikes as an act of war, warning of a befitting reply. The Pakistan Army confirmed that the missiles targeted areas in Kotli, Muzaffarabad (PoK), and Bahawalpur, though claimed Indian jets did not enter their airspace.

Pakistan Army spokesperson Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry declared that their air force jets were airborne and vowed retaliation at a time and place of its own choosing. Despite this, Indian defence forces remain on high alert along the border.

India also reached out to several key international players, including the US, UK, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and UAE, to brief them on the scope and rationale behind the strikes. Sources indicated that senior Indian officials explained the precision and restraint exercised in targeting only terror infrastructure.

The Indian Army posted Justice is Served on social media, while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh wrote Bharat Mata Ki Jai in a bold statement of national pride.

The strikes are a part of Indias broader commitment to hold those responsible for terrorism accountable. As Modi had earlier vowed, those behind the Pahalgam massacre would face punishment beyond their imagination.
Two men with Alabama ties are among more than 200 people arrested in a nationwide U.S. Department of Justice operation targeting child sex predators.

Operation Restore Justice  a massive effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators  was carried out over five days by the FBIs 55 field offices, DOJs Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, and U.S. Attorneys Office from around the country.

Authorities on Wednesday said the operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrest of 205 suspects.

Jalan Christophe Lewis, 31, of Tuscaloosa, and Robert John Newman Jr., 28, of Pennsylvania, were arrested in the Northern District of Alabama.

Lewis is charged with attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, transferring obscene materials to minors, sexual exploitation of children, distribution of child pornography, receipt of child pornography, and coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity.

These alleged incidents happened between July 2024 and November 2024 in Tuscaloosa County.

Newman is charged with sexual exploitation of children, coercion and enticement of a minor, and travelling with the intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct.

The alleged incidents took place between December 2024 and January 2025 in Winston County.

Protecting the most vulnerable members of our society remains a top priority, said Northern District of Alabama U.S. Attorney Prim Escalona. These arrests are the result of strong collaboration between our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to protect victims from child exploitation.

Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking.

In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms.

In Norfolk, Virginia, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex.

In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims.

In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, New York.

The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victimsespecially child victimsand we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us, said U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi. I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.

FBI Birminghams Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force and FBI Pittsburghs Crimes Against Children Task Force investigated these cases with assistance from the West Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force, the Winston County Sheriffs Office, and the Shaler Township Police Department in Pennsylvania.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys R. Leann White and Daniel S. McBrayer are prosecuting the cases.

Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us, said FBI Director Kash Patel. Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state, and local partners, were sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.
Two people have been arrested for their alleged role in a south Alabama apartment shooting that left two people critically injured last week.

According to the Daphne Police Department, Skylar Jemison, 18, and an unidentified 17-year-old were arrested for the April 29 shooting at the 10x Audubon Apartment complex.

The victims were previously identified as Matthew Barnes, 18, and Demond Walker, 20.

Daphne Police Department Chief Brian Gulsby said the alleged perpetrators met with the victims to purchase marijuana but movie money instead of real money was offered.

This allegedly led to an altercation resulting in Jemison shooting the victims.

Jemison was charged with two counts of attempted murder and two counts of first degree robbery. The 17-year-old has been charged with two counts of first degree robbery.

The two were arrested on Monday at about 4:00 p.m. and could be facing more charges as the investigation continues, the department said.
After nearly a decade leading Tuscaloosa City Schools, Superintendent Mike Daria will leave the district in 2026.

During his tenure, Daria has earned numerous awards for his leadership, including being named the 2023 State Superintendent of the Year. He is also one of the states highest-earning school leaders; this year, Daria earned a salary of $283,774.

At Darias request, the Tuscaloosa Board of Education voted unanimously Tuesday to reduce the terms of his contract so that he could retire by June 30, 2026.

It has been the honor of my life to serve the students, educators, and families of Tuscaloosa City Schools over the past three decades, Daria said in a news release Wednesday. Every step of this journey has deepened my belief in the power of public education to change lives. While I could joyfully continue this work for another ten years, I believe now is the right time to step aside and make space for the next chapter  for me, for my family, and for this incredible school system.

Tuscaloosa City Schools is the states 14th largest district. It serves just over 10,000 students and employs 881 staff.

Daria, who became superintendent in 2016, has nearly 31 years of experience in K-12 education, mostly at schools in the Tuscaloosa area. He started his career as an English teacher and later took on several administrative roles.

During his tenure, Daria helped raise the districts report card from a 78 to an 84. While the district is still struggling to regain lost ground in math, reading scores are now higher than theyve been in over a decade.

The district is also home to an award-winning summer learning program and recently opened the states first one-stop community resource center, which provides wraparound services like food assistance and mental health care to students and families.

Leadership also has expanded workforce and college coursework for high schoolers, leading to a big increase  nearly 20 percentage points  in the number of students who are deemed college and career ready.

This progress reflects the unwavering commitment and hard work from our board of education, teachers, staff, students, and families, Daria said.

The announcement comes months after residents voted down an effort to raise property taxes, which leaders said would have generated an extra $17.25 million annually for the district. The district recently announced that it will lower its reserve fund by $6 million for the upcoming school year.
Two owlets spotted at the nesting box built by Homewood resident Max Lewis. Lewis built and installed nesting boxes at Homewood's Overton Park, Central Park and Woodland Park. Photo courtesy of the Lewis family

Visitors to two Alabama parks have been treated to an unexpected, and adorable, sight in recent weeks -- baby barred owls -- thanks to nesting boxes built by an Alabama teenager.

Max Lewis, a junior at Homewood High School, built and installed the owl nesting boxes at Homewoods Overton Park, Central Park and Woodland Park when he was 16 as part of his Eagle Scout service project for Boy Scouts of America Troop 79 out of All Saints Episcopal Church in Homewood.

Lewis, now 17, said he was inspired to build the nesting boxes for barred owls after growing up hearing the birds at the house he grew up in near Woodland Park. The birds have a unique call that many say sounds like Who cooks for you, who cooks for you all.

While the Lewis family has since moved, they said they still often hear the owls in their new homebegin, which is only about a quarter mile from Overton Park, and hoped the boxes would bring and keep more owls nearby.

Max Lewis, now a high school junior, built owl nesting boxes for three Homewood parks when he was 16 to serve as part of his Eagle Scout project for Boy Scouts of America Troop 79 out of All Saints Episcopal Church in Homewood. Photos courtesy of The Lewis Family

Since barred owls typically begin their nesting season in March, Lewis spent two months on the project and the boxes were ultimately installed in February 2024.

I had to do a lot of research because its a specific kind of owl, barred owls, Lewis said. So I had to find out what they need, how big they are and just how to accommodate them. Then, I had to figure out what types of wood to use and where to put them, and I had to figure out the costs of everything and build them. My grandfather, who is a carpenter, had to saw the wood, since Boy Scouts arent allowed to use power tools, and then I had to assemble it with screws. From there, I had to talk with the [Homewood Park Board] about installing them, so that was kind of a process.

About two weeks ago, Lewis said the owlets were spotted at the nesting boxes in Woodland Park and Overton Park, making it the first time hes seen the boxes in use. Since then, the chicks have become a talking point for the community and those who live nearby.

Each owl nesting box is accompanied by a plaque with more information for park visitors. Photos courtesy of The Lewis Family

Im pretty excited to see it, said Lewis. It felt cool that it was finally inhabited, and its been really cool just to get to see other people react to them and talk about them.

While the owlets are now brave enough to explore the branches and trees surrounding the nesting boxes, barred owl babies typically stay near their parents -- who are still providing food for them -- for up to six months, according to All About Birds. Plus, barred owls have been known to return to the same nest each year, meaning owlets may become a common sight for the parks visitors in the spring.

Despite the year-long wait, Lewis said hes happy to see the nesting boxes fulfill their intended purpose and said he learned a valuable lesson in the process.

Patience is key, said Lewis. You shouldnt expect immediate results.
Alabama Republican Party Chairman John Wahl presides over a meeting of the executive board of the Alabama Public Library Service. Wahl, who represents the 5th Congressional District, is chair of the board. (Mike Cason/mcason@al.com)

A full-blown culture war showdown is set for Thursday in Montgomery, where the Alabama Public Library Service (APLS) board will face a surging crowd of speakers  now at 37 and climbing  over the fate of the Fairhope Public Librarys state funding and a heated battle over what qualifies as sexually explicit content.

The board had initially capped the speaker list to 23, but reversed course Wednesday.

Everyone requested to speak will be allowed to speak, said board member Amy Minton, who spearheaded the funding suspension to Fairhopes library during the March meeting. Conservative groups like Eagle Forum and Gays Against Groomers are among those also expected to weigh in.

The controversy has drawn fire from across the state, including from Krysti Shallenberger, head of the Cullman County chapter of Read Freely Alabama.

People are furious, she said, criticizing the board  chaired by Alabama GOP leader John Wahl  for lacking transparency and pushing a right-wing agenda on book placement policy.

Board of censors

At least two APLS board members, Ron Snider and Angelina Stokes, said they were not asked ahead of time about the meeting date change or if they could attend the meeting. Wahl has since disputed their claims, saying he had sent email notices to the APLS board members, and noted that meeting date changes have not been uncommon for the APLS board in the past.

Snider, who represents Fairhope and has been critical of his colleagues handling of the library, will not be at the rescheduled meeting because of a job-related conflict. He noted that, over the years, the APLS board meetings would be lucky to draw four or five people.

Now its not unusual to have hundreds show up for a meeting, Snider said, referring to the interest about book placement and policies that are part of a nationwide culture war issue over LGBTQ content and critical race theory.

Snider sent an email to Wahl urging that his APLS colleagues respect decisions made by the local library board, which have drawn the ire of the conservative group Moms for Liberty who claim all books challenged under the states interpretation of sexually explicit material should be reshelved into adult sections.

I continue to believe the choice of books at the local library should be made by professional librarians and local boards, Snider wrote to Wahl. That is exactly what is occurring in Fairhope where there is a procedure in place for patrons to question the placement of books. I believe APLS should respect such local decisions, and it is not the role of APLS to be a board of censors for Alabama.

Wahl, in a comment to AL.com, said that every board member has their own opinion, and that any decision made by the APLS board is made from the unique perspective from the entire membership. And, at the end of the day, its the majority of the board.

Date change

Alabama Republican Chairman John Wahl speaks to a reporter inside the spin room following the fourth Republican presidential primary debate on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in the Frank Moody Music Hall at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Ala. John Sharp/jsharp@al.com

Wahl said the meeting date was changed to coincide with the final day of the 2025 legislative session. He said the original intent was for APLS board members to visit the Statehouse following their board meeting.

Wahl said that visit is no longer happening because of time constraints due to a large list of guest speakers. In addition, the final day of the legislative session is not scheduled until next week.

Shallenberger, in an email Monday, claimed that the APLS board had set a 5 p.m. deadline on Friday for people to sign up to speak before the board meeting. The APLS administrative code, however, sets a deadline of two working days before an APLS board meeting for someone to sign up and speak.

Now that the state legislature has changed their schedule and May 8 is no longer the final day of session, those time constraints are no longer a concern, Wahl said, adding that each speaker will be given two-to-three minutes before the board. Everyone who submitted a request to speak will be (allowed to do so).

He added, Transparency is important to me. Anyone who would not have been able to speak on (Thursday) with the time constraint would have been put on the agenda for the next meeting.

Shallenberger criticized Wahl and the APLS board for a lack of transparency, and for what she said is a moving of goalposts.

People are very angry and upset over the library issues particularly over what happened in Fairhope, she said.

Focus on Fairhope

An overflow crowd at Fairhope City Hall sits in an adjacent auditorium to watch the council meeting on Tuesday, April 29, 2026, in Fairhope, Ala. The subject of concern revolved around the Fairhope Library and the placement of books. John Sharp

Indeed, most of the focus appears to be on the Fairhope Public Library, which had its annual state funding of around $42,000 temporarily suspended during the APLS board meeting in March. An online fundraiser has helped raise enough money to restore the lost funding.

The APLS board approved the suspension without feedback or responses from the Fairhope Public Library, city leaders or a host of residents who have come out in support of the library in recent months. Since then, some Fairhope city officials have criticized the APLS board for a lack of due process and communication.

Wahl said he has had discussions with some Fairhope city officials including Mayor Sherry Sullivan and the library director, reinforcing the APLS code changes adopted last summer. But he said there are no plans to restore the librarys funding on Thursday. He said that the Fairhope Library Board is in the process of reviewing about 12-14 books that were considered sexually explicit and inappropriate to be shelved in children or teen sections.

The lions share of the Fairhope Public Librarys funding comes from local sources, and city officials have vowed not to cut any of the nearly $1 million it provides to their library.

The funding suspension by the APLS board in March came after concerns about book placement were raised by Rebecca Watson, a representative of Moms for Liberty, a group of conservatives who have raised concerns nationally about LGBTQ content in public libraries.

Read Freely Alabama and a host of critics in Fairhope claim that the APLS board is taking its cues from Moms for Liberty, and not the majority of city residents.

The recent criticism from Moms for Liberty stems from the lack of the Fairhope Public Library board reshelving books that have been challenged.

Last month, the board voted to not reshelve two books  Sold, which is about sex trafficking in India, and Grown, which is about sexual exploitation. Library officials said neither book fits the legal description of what is deemed obscene. The review looks at a books entirety on whether it appeals to prurient interests that can be viewed as sexually stimulating or has the potential to sexually arouse someone.

Sexually explicit

The APLS board appears to be adhering to a definition of what constitutes sexually explicit content. A new code adopted by the APLS board last year requires those books to be relocated from children and teen sections to adult sections, regardless of sex educational value.

According to Minton, the APLS version of sexually explicit is to be defined as any visual, written, or audio content that depicts or describes sexual conduct that includes sexual intercourse, nudity, bestiality, masturbation, sadistic or masochistic abuse or lascivious exhibition.

The definition has been criticized by members of Read Freely Alabama, which is an anti-censorship group that has been battling Moms for Liberty and Clean Up Alabama for several years over book challenges.

Elizabeth Williams, the Baldwin County representative for Read Freely Alabama, argues that from a legal standpoint, sexually explicit conduct is not the same thing as sexually explicit material.

She said that Wahl and the APLS board have not defined sexually explicit material, and that its subject to interpretation.

Nothing in the library should be found to be obscene and nothing in the sections for minors should be found to be harmful to minors, Williams said. Until the state proves otherwise, we firmly believe our library has been in full compliance with APLS rules for state aid.

Shallenberger said that Wahl is attempting to use Fairhope, a city that has long voted Republican, as a political example.

Wahl responded, There are those who are trying, a segment of people who are upset, (who are preventing) a protecting of children from sexually explicit material and are trying to create controversy and negativity instead of coming together to look for the best avenues to serve the people of Alabama.
At its meeting on May 6, 2025, the water works board failed to act on a proposal to sell its assets to the city of Birmingham, a move to stymie a takeover by suburban Republicans. Roy S. Johnson

This is an opinion column.

Ouch.

In what may have been the final official convening of the nine current members of the besieged and long-beleaguered Birmingham Water Works Board, they slipped on a wet spot Tuesday and landed on their battered tushes.

By the time you read this, the board might be flushed. With the stroke of a pen, Gov. Kay Ivey could push the nine members into the deepest depths of Lake Purdy, one of its water-providing reservoirs, by signing the Suburban Republicans Money/Power Grab bill  a.k.a. SB330  into law.

As passed by the Republican-dominated legislature, it would immediately terminate current board members and replace them with a smaller board appointed mostly by folks who likely havent spent a night in Birmingham since their wild youth. They would have 20 days to fill the new seats.

Ouch.

It was probably inevitable, this decades-old effort to snatch control of the cash-cow utility (It generates more than $200 million annually in revenue) from Birmingham and Jefferson County, where 91 percent of its customers reside, according to the water works.

It was probably inevitable despite a last-gasp plan conceived during a clandestine meeting of city officials and water board members Monday in a conference room at the  and Im really trying to resist typing fittingly here  the Birmingham Zoo.

Earlier on Tuesday, the city of Birmingham filed a federal lawsuit against Ivey and the state to stop, or at least delay, the governors signature. Chief U.S. District Judge Emily C. Marks denied the citys emergency motion for a temporary order restraining the governor from signing the bill. But the judge set a hearing for May 15 in Montgomery.

Still, the next relay leg belonged to the water board. Even with its well-chronicled history of self-inflicted troubles and head-scratching decisions that sunk its credibility and gave fodder to those craving a takeover, you would think the board would boldly dive in once city officials did their part  did what was agreed upon while all were surrounded by zoo animals.

Instead, the water board belly flopped.

On Tuesday morning the city council passed a resolution to give the mayor the authority to buy the 74-year-old water system for $1. Its a notion thats been duck-paddling for years.

Think of the water works becoming another city department (again), similar to the airport or public transit authorities, both of which are governed by boards fully appointed by the city.

SB330 forced our hand, said Council President Darrell OQuinn. If we own it, we control it.

Closing the deal would not have been simple math, but the water board was slated to ignite the process while it still had the authority to do so during a special called meeting Tuesday afternoon.

Instead, members convened and met for three minutes before retreating into executive session. They emerged after 73 minutes. Then, instead of potentially saving its assets by voting on the proposal to sell to the city, the board unanimously agreed to negotiate new contracts or amended agreements with the boards executive assistant and four assistant general managers.

They even created the new position of deputy general manager and general counsel for the boards longtime lawyer, Mark Parnell.

Meeting adjourned.

Ouch.

The inaction left city officials scalding.

I would have expected them to coordinate their efforts with what we did today, said OQuinn.

Early Tuesday evening, the water works posted notice of another special called board meeting on Wednesday at 6:15 p.m., ostensibly to do what it should have done the day before.

By the time they convene, alas, the board may be sunk, again. This time for good.

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 public visitation is held before a funeral at Dauphin Way Baptist Church in 2019. (Mike Kittrell/AL.com)

A historic Baptist church in south Alabama announced Monday that it is on the move.

The Dauphin Way Baptist Church in Mobile said it is selling its current property and looking to find a new permanent location.

The church is currently located at 3661 Dauphin Street where it has been since 1988.

The decision came after many months of prayer due to the church experiencing a decline in membership despite Mobile undergoing population growth.

According to WKRG, the church has a congregation of about 600 after having about 8,000 upon its initial opening several decades ago.

Pastor of the church, Dr. Lee Merck, said that the place of worship has amazing days ahead of it and believes God has great plans for their future.

We have an amazing church! I could not ask for a greater group of people to work with in relocating and replanting Dauphin Way Baptist Church, Merck said.

As a former church planter, I can tell you that we are in for some amazing days. I cant wait to see what God is going to do.

I believe many others will desire to be a part of a work like this. We praise God for His blessings, for His faithful direction, and His provisions. Its a new day at Dauphin Way. This is no longer just a hopeful expression. God is making it a reality, and it is evident that He has a great plan for our future.

With roots stretching back to 1904, the church lost one building to fire on Christmas 1935, according to Mobile Bay Magazine.

The church rebuilt in the 1940s and grew as shipbuilding brought more people to the city.

By the late 1960s, Dauphin Way Baptist Church was bursting at the seams.... It was the largest Baptist congregation in the state which sparked the move in 1988, the magazine reported in 2017.
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey today signed into law legislation that re-shapes the Birmingham Water Works Board and takes it out of majority control of the City of Birmingham.

The new law regionalizes the Birmingham Water Works Board and would give more power to suburban areas.

Under the new law the structure of the Birmingham Water Works Board will change, creating a seven-member authority dominated by appointees from outside the city of Birmingham and reducing the citys seats to two.

Birmingham had controlled six of the nine seats on the former board.

No doubt, this is an important issue to all those residents served by this utility board, Ivey said today. The Alabama Legislature overwhelmingly passed SB330, and I was pleased to sign it into law.

New board members will now be appointed within 20 days of Ivey signing the law.

Ivey signed the law despite a late effort by the City of Birmingham, announced Tuesday morning, to file a federal lawsuit asking for a restraining order to keep her from signing it.

Chief U.S. District Judge Emily C. Marks denied the City of Birminghams request Tuesday on the emergency motion for a temporary restraining order to stop Ivey from signing the recently passed bill to change the utility boards make-up.

Marks set a hearing for May 15 on the request for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction, but did not order Ivey not to sign the law.

Iveys office called the lawsuit a highly unusual attempt to stop the governor from signing a bill passed by the Legislature.

On the first day the law took effect, Jefferson County Commission President Jimmie Stephens appointed an engineer, Phillip R. Wiedmeyer, to the new regional board.

Wiedmeyer, acting in his capacity as board member, filed a federal lawsuit in response to the City of Birminghams lawsuit, declaring that the former Water Works Board was terminated, and asking U.S. District Court to stop the former board from taking any action after May 7.

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin released the following statement:

My only priority in this issue is the Birmingham customer of the water works. They make up 41 percent of the system and deserve to have fair representation on a public utility board. In no way am I here to defend the water works board and the politics surrounding it over the years. This bill adds more politics to the board: self appointment from politicians, elected officials appointing other elected officials, and board members being paid more money.

This bill is an affront to the Birmingham customer. This is a taking of power from the local rate payer by Republican politicians in Montgomery. We have seen this same thing happen in other cities throughout the southeast. Your water and sewer bill will keep going up.

If this takeover stands, then I urge you to take up any concerns you have about water works operations or your bill with Gov. Kay Ivey, Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth, Sen. Dan Roberts, and Rep. Jim Carns.
Tommy Tuberville's residency has been in question since before he ran for the United States Senate. In this 2017 EPSPN promotional video, Tuberville said he had moved to the Florida coast. screenshot ESPN

This is an opinion column.

In Alabama, if you want a hint of what the future might be like, look to the past. This time, we dont have to look back that far.

In 2023, David Cole went to jail because the Alabama Republican Party Executive Committee didnt do its job.

And the Alabama Republican Party lost a House seat for their mistake, too.

Oops.

Previous: Alabama lawmaker lives in one district, represents another

When Coles opponent in the 2022 GOP primary, Anson Knowles, told the party that Cole didnt live in the north Alabama House district he was running for, the executive committee acted swiftly. They kicked Knowles, not Cole, off the primary ballot, claiming Knowles was a Libertarian, not a real Republican.

With a belly full of the partys home cooking, Cole ran unopposed in the primary and then narrowly won his general election race against Democrat Marilyn Lands and Libertarian Elijah Boyd.

But it wouldnt last.

The facts the Alabama GOP had ignored werent on Coles side. A lawsuit brought by Boyd revealed that Knowles had been right, that Cole had run in a district where he didnt live and voted at a polling place that wasnt his.

By the time it was over, Cole pleaded guilty to a crime and was sentenced to 60 days in jail.

Lands won a special election and flipped an Alabama House seat for the Democrats.

Good job, Alabama GOP.

As with that race in Huntsville, the Alabama GOP isnt shy about kicking people off its ballot when it feels like. It routinely disqualifies candidates for having once been Democrats  never mind that most Alabama Republicans over the age of 60 were likely once Democrats  or for having supported Democrats.

The same year the party kicked Knowles off the primary ballot, it also disqualified Tuscaloosa businessman Tripp Powell, who sought to unseat state Sen. Gerald Allen. Powells unforgivable sin was that he had once given Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox, a Democrat, a $500 campaign donation.

However, this rule does not seem to apply to others, most notably Democrat campaign contributor Donald Trump.

In the Alabama GOP, rules seem to apply only to those the executive committee doesnt like.

Sometimes it gets hard, Alabama GOP Chairman John Wahl said after Powell was kicked off the ballot. Its very hard to know who is a Republican and who is not a Republican.

Almost as hard as obeying Voter ID laws?

If theres a better example of Alabama GOP dysfunction than David Cole, its John Wahls chairmanship.

Wahl has admitted to voting with a photo ID he made himself, an ID then-Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill said was not a legal voter ID. Merrill and his successor, Secretary of State Wes Allen, both referred the case to Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall who then did nothing.

The party committees arbitrary application of rules seems to be contagious. And thats the problem that, if not rectified, will inevitably get the GOP in trouble again  when rules apply to some people and not others.

And the party is about to run headlong into such a case again.

Sen. Tommy Tuberville has told friends and allies that he plans to run for Alabama governor next year.

The trouble for Tuberville is that  unlike the one-day residency requirement to run for Senate  the Alabama Constitution requires candidates for governor to have lived in the state for the last seven years.

Tuberville has struggled to make his case, arguing that his wifes 2018 homestead exemption started the clock on his residency, even though he and his wife voted in Florida after that clock supposedly started ticking.

Oops.

As with Cole, Tuberville might not have all the facts on his side. The best time to sort that out is now.

Its the party executive committees job to get to the bottom of things, to answer that question.

Before the party puts its dysfunction on public display again.

Kyle Whitmire is the Washington watchdog columnist for AL.com and winner of the 2023 Pulitzer Prize. You can follow him on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, X , Threads and Bluesky.
A new shark alert system, inspired by a teen who survived an attack last year, that warns beachgoers when a shark has bitten someone in the vicinity will be established in Alabama under legislation signed by Gov. Kay Ivey on Tuesday.

The system will issue a public notice to cellphones when theres been a shark attack nearby. The law is named after Mountain Brook teenager Lulu Gribbin, who was one of three people bitten by a shark during a string of attacks off the Florida Panhandle last year. She lost her left hand and a portion of her right leg in the attack.

Gribbin, now 16, visited the Alabama Statehouse to urge lawmakers to approve the warning system. She said she would not have been in the water if she knew a woman had been bitten just a few miles away about an hour earlier.

This bill will help prevent future attacks, Gribbin said last month about the legislation. Its like an Amber Alert when a child goes missing. It will send an alert when there has been a shark attack.

Lulu Gribbin, a 15-year-old from Mountain Brook, Alabama, who survived a shark attack, continues rehabbing from her injuries. File

Gribbin was with Ivey as she signed the bill, named the Lulu Gribbin Shark Alert System Act, in a private ceremony in the governors office.

Alabama is proud to have the safest and most beautiful beaches in the world, Ivey said in a statement Tuesday. The added tool of having a shark alert system will help officials in Baldwin and Mobile counties keep our beachgoers safe and enjoying the refreshing waters of our Gulf of America.

Supporters said the legislation will be an added measure of assurance for those headed to the beach. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will create rules for the new alert system, according to the legislation.

An earlier version would have allowed an alert for an imminent danger when sharks are spotted near the shoreline. However, since sharks are commonly found in waters off Alabama and Florida, beach communities were concerned that would cause excessive alerts, causing panic and hurting coastal tourism.

The alerts will only be issued along the Alabama coast. Supporters said they hope other states will pursue similar systems or that federal legislation will expand its use.

Gribbin described the attack after speaking to a legislative committee last month. She and her friend had been diving for sand dollars and riding the Gulf waves when her friend screamed, shark!

My hand was bitten first. I remember just lifting it out of the water, and I was stunned because there was no hand there, she recalled. I couldnt feel it because of all the shock I was in. Then the shark latched onto my leg.

Over 260,000 fans have been following her recovery on social media, including prosthetic leg fittings and physical therapy  as well as milestones such as going to a high school dance and her first trip back to the beach.

Experts say attacks are rare despite sharks prevalence in places like the Gulf. There were 47 unprovoked shark bites worldwide  including four fatalities  in 2024, according to the Florida Museum of Natural Historys shark research program.
Rap moguls Sean "Diddy" Combs, left, and Jay-Z attend the NBA All-Star basketball game, Feb. 15, 2015, in New York. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens, File) AP

Rapper Shawn Corey Carter, otherwise known as Jay-Z, on Tuesday filed an amended lawsuit in Alabama district court to include a New York lawyer he claims was involved in efforts to defraud and extort him.

The complaint alleges that Antigone Curis, along with attorneys Tony Buzbee and David Fortney, and a Jane Doe from Alabama, publicly filed an explosive, false, and malicious complaint against him.

In March, the Alabama Jane Doe who sued Jay-Z claimed Buzbee pushed her to falsely accuse the music mogul of raping her, along with Sean Diddy Combs, in a since-dismissed lawsuit.

She told private investigators that Buzbee  whos representing over 100 Diddy accusers  encouraged her to sue Jay-Z for allegedly assaulting her at an after-party following the MTV Video Music Awards in 2000, when she was 13 years old, according to a report from New York Daily News and Tribune News Service.

Jay-Z filed a defamation lawsuit that same month against the Jane Doe, Buzbee, and Fortney, alleging the womans claims cost him $20 million.

The complaint further claims that Buzbee directed his employees to edit Wikipedia pages to enhance Buzbees image and damage Mr. Carters and Roc Nations reputations.

It alleges that users with an IP address directly linked to the Buzbee Firm made over 100 positive edits to Buzbees Wikipedia page while also negatively doctoring Carters.

Carter refiled the amended complaint to add Curis this week, alleging that Buzbee, who is not authorized to practice law in the Southern District of New York, used Curis electronic filing access with her knowledge to file Carters case in the original complaint.

Judges in the SDNY have opined that the Buzbee Defendants used Curis to hide from the courts that they are not admitted to practice in the SDNY, the complaint reads.

...In doing so, Curis furthered the aims of the conspiracy by becoming a direct participant in her co-defendants scheme against Mr. Carter and aiding and abetting their actions to Mr. Carters significant financial and personal detriment.

The complaint also alleges that Buzbee and Curis have used this tactic more than once.

Efforts to reach Buzbee and Curis for comment were not immediately successful.
Germany's Merz elected chancellor after setback

08:21, May 07, 2025 By Earle Gale ( China Daily

The man who won Germany's federal election in February and who spent the following weeks building a potential ruling coalition was finally elected chancellor on Tuesday, after a last-minute hitch threatened to derail his plans.

Friedrich Merz, leader of the conservative Christian Democratic Union, or CDU, had been building a political alliance with the center-left Social Democratic Party ever since the election. It was to have been an alliance capable of giving him the votes he needed to run the country smoothly through a coalition government.

However, in an unexpected twist, despite the two parties signing a coalition deal on Monday, Merz initially fell short of the support he needed in a parliamentary vote that was supposed to have been a formality and end with him being named chancellor of Europe's largest economy.

As he signed the coalition deal, Merz acknowledged the two parties do not see eye-to-eye on everything, but said, "It's our historical duty to make this government a success."

The coalition should have given Merz a 12-seat majority in parliament, but some lawmakers did not vote as they were expected to during the first round and, needing 316 votes from the 630-seat parliament, Merz initially mustered only 310.

The six-vote defeat in the secret ballot looked to have been attributed to opposition from Social Democrats who disapproved of the alliance with the CDU.

The drama was soon resolved, with a rerun of the vote in the afternoon in which Merz received 325 votes with a majority of nine.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier later appointed Merz as chancellor, officially marking the start of his time in office.

After confusion

The second vote was held after apparent confusion and shock in Germany's parliament.

"The world is in turmoil. Europe needs a strong Germany," Carsten Linnemann, secretary-general of the CDU, told reporters after Merz's loss. He said a second vote should come soon. "We can't wait for days now, we need clarity quickly."

Upon announcing the second vote, the head of the Union bloc in parliament, Jens Spahn, said, "The whole of Europe, perhaps even the whole world, is watching this second round of elections."

Tuesday's initial defeat was seen as a massive embarrassment to Merz and a huge disappointment for the CDU, which had campaigned on being a strong alternative to the previous administration led by Olaf Scholz, which collapsed because of infighting late last year.

The far-right Alternative for Germany, or AfD, which scored a record result of more than 20 percent in February's election, cheered the surprise initial result. It had previously said the proposed two-party coalition should never be allowed to run the country.

"Merz should step aside and the way should be cleared for a general election," AfD co-leader Alice Weidel said earlier, calling the first-round result a "good day for Germany".

The CDU won the federal election with 28.5 percent of the vote and needs the support of at least one other party to form a government. The Social Democratic Party secured 16.4 percent, its poorest performance since World War II.

The two parties' struggles come as the anti-immigrant AfD is growing quickly in popularity and threatening to soon be in a position to lead the country.

The CDU has promised increased border security in an effort to hold the AfD at bay, and has said it will oversee an economic revival once it is in government and committed to a big increase in military spending.

Agencies contributed to this story.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
A man holding a gun to his head temporarily shut down traffic on a busy Homewood roadway before police convinced him to put down the weapon. The inciden thappened Tuesday, May 6, 2025, on Green Springs Highway. (Special to AL.com)

A man holding a gun to his head temporarily shut down traffic on a busy Homewood roadway before police convinced him to put down the weapon.

The ordeal began just before 2 p.m. Tuesday at a shopping center parking lot in the 10 block of Green Springs Highway.

Lt. John Carr said an officer was parked there when a man approached him with a gun pointed at his own head.

The officer tried to talk to him, and additional units responded.

Carr said they shut down Green Springs Highway as a precaution.

Video posted to social media showed the man pacing back and forth with the gun pointed at himself, while armed officers stood poised nearby.

Police negotiated with the man for about 20 minutes before they were able to get him to drop the gun. Carr said the man was incoherent and taken to a hospital for evaluation.

Sgt. Mark Trippe commended the officers on the scene for deescalating the situation.
Mazda employees in Huntsville, Ala., cheered when the first car made in the company's new plant rolled off the production line. The CX-50 is an SUV designed specifically for the American market.

Mazda will begin redirecting SUVs originally made for the Canadian market at its Huntsville plant to U.S. buyers this month.

According to a report by Nikkei Asia, this will effectively boost production of the CX-50 for the domestic market by 10%.

In April, the Japanese luxury automaker announced it would pause Canadian production beginning May 12 in response to the President Donald Trumps automotive tariffs and the Canadian response.

At that time, Mazda said there will be no changes to its overall production volume at the Huntsville plant.

Mazdas annual production capacity in Huntsville is 150,000 vehicles, with about 10% intended for Canada. Mazda shares the joint operating factory with Toyota.

A representative of Mazdas Canadian subsidiary told the news outlet operations in Huntsville will remain unaffected.

Last week, Mazda reported its second-best April sales of CX-50 with 7,753 vehicles sold. In 2024, the automaker reported sales of 81,441, almost doubling the previous years total.

The Trump administration imposed a 25% tariff on imported automobiles in April, followed in May by a 25% levy on imported auto parts. Later, the administration announced that auto parts which had been duty-free under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement would remain exempt from the new tariffs. Canada responded with its own tariffs.

Mazda imports about 80% of the vehicles it sells in the U.S., according to Nikkei Asia.
Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson, who is not seeking a fourth term in office, officially endorsed former Mobile County District Judge Spiro Cheriogotis as his successor for the city's top political job during a public announcement on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, inside the Greer's St. Louis Market in downtown Mobile, Ala. The city's municipal election is Aug. 26, 2025. John Sharp

Just over three years ago, then-Mobile County District Judge Spiro Cheriogotis delivered a blistering rebuke to Mayor Sandy Stimpson after a news conference in which the mayor had declared the criminal justice system broken amid a surge in violent crime.

The fiery words, intended to get the mayors attention, did exactly that.

Stimpson took notice. The two men met over breakfast and aired their concerns.

He was not wrong with what he was saying, Stimpson reflected. I was probably off base putting the judges in a box and making the comment I made. Him writing that letter took some boldness on standing his ground, which I admired. I hit him in public, and he decided to do the same.

Fast-forward a few years, and the former critics stood shoulder to shoulder inside a Greers marketplace owned by Cheriogotis wife, Lucy Greer. There, Stimpsonretiring after more than a decade in officethrew his full support behind the 42-year-old Cheriogotis as his pick to lead Mobile as the next mayor. The municipal election is August 26.

Spiro represents generational change and brings a willingness to challenge the status quo, Stimpson said Tuesday. He will inspire 25 to 50 years olds to get off the sidelines and get engaged to make Mobile a great city.

The endorsement, though expected by rival campaigns, left Cheriogotis nearly speechless. Stimpson, who announced last fall he wouldnt seek a fourth term, was viewed as the most influential endorsement in the mayors race.

Calling the moment surreal, Cheriogotis thanked Stimpsons wife, Jean, and credited the outgoing mayor for breathing life into long-stalled projects like the Civic Center and a new airport, and for putting the city on firm financial footing.

It is not hyperbole to say you pulled this city back from the brink of bankruptcy, Cheriogotis said, adding that if he is elected, he will lean on Stimpson for advice.

No deals

Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson, who is not seeking a fourth term in office, officially endorsed former Mobile County District Judge Spiro Cheriogotis as his successor for the city's top political job during a public announcement on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, inside the Greer's St. Louis Market in downtown Mobile, Ala. The city's municipal election is Aug. 26, 2025. John Sharp

Stimpson later told the media that he met with Cheriogotis first after announcing his intentions not to seek a fourth term in office last September. Stimpson has also met with a handful of other candidates, including former Mobile County Commissioner Connie Hudson and former Police Chief Lawrence Battiste.

The Hudson campaign, in early March, criticized Cheriogotis for vowing to retain Stimpsons administrative staff for his endorsement. Part of that criticism stems from former Stimpson aide Candace Cooksey taking an unpaid leave of absence from city employment to run Cheriogotis campaign in February.

Other candidates, including former Mobile Police Chief Paul Prine, say that Cheriogotis and Stimpson exchanged some sort of deal for the endorsement. Former Mobile County Commissioner Stephen Nodine says Cheriogotis is vowing to maintain Stimpsons over bloated staff.

Stimpson denied there were any promises made over staffing related to a political endorsement. He also said he had not finalized his endorsement decision until after watching Tuesdays mayoral forum at Cottage Hill Baptist Church.

There are no deals, Stimpson said. I made no deal with Spiro. I do not expect anyone to keep anyone elses team.

Stimpson added, Sometimes it takes a change to breathe a new life into it, come up with a new idea and get a new team member in to say this is the pathway forward.

Cheriogotis said he is thankful that Stimpson didnt ask him to promise anything for his endorsement.

Ive made no promises, even from my campaign staff on what their role may be in an upcoming administration, he said. I havent made any permanent decisions on what I will do.

However, Cheriogotis said he believes in the value of continuity and institutional knowledge, though claims it will not outweigh everything else when assembling an administrative team.

My goal is to be the leader of a team with a singular mission -- to drive the City of Mobile forward and help Mobile finally realize its full potential.

Cheriogotis is leading the field of candidates in fundraising, accumulating over $555,000 in money at the end of April. Stimpson said his endorsement could trigger additional support for Cheriogotis, acknowledging that his One Mobile PAC could provide support for Cheriogotis. The political action committee had $147,000 in campaign money at the end of April.

Well make that determination, Stimpson said. I dont know how involved I will be (with the campaign). I think part of the campaign is a training ground to be the mayor and being under pressure and getting your stomach tied in a knot and talking to the media. I dont want to make it too easy.

Opponents pounce

The candidates for Mobile mayor listen to a music performance ahead of the Mobile mayoral forum on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at Cottage Hill Baptist Church in Mobile, Ala. The forum offered voters an opportunity to hear from the candidates ahead of the Aug. 26, 2025, municipal election. Mobile will have its first open mayor's race without an incumbent mayor on the ballot in 20 years. John Sharp

Stimpson, though, admitted that he could be detrimental if he is too involved.

Nodine said he doesnt believe Stimpson is as politically beneficial to Cheriogotis as the mayor would have been four years ago. He said that public safety remains a growing concern in Mobile. He also blamed the Stimpson administration for what he said were cost overruns on some of the citys largest projects including a parking garage adjacent to the future Mobile Civic Center, and a new airport at the Mobile Aeroplex at Brookley.

Sometimes people get offended by people telling them who they feel they should vote for, Nodine said. I just think Sandy Stimpson is looking for a position, after he gets out of the mayors office, to keep his hands on the wheel.

Prine, who had a fallout with the Stimpson administration last year and was fired as police chief, criticized the endorsement as power keeping and catering to the most affluent in our community.

The people Ive spoken to in this campaign, the moms and the veterans, they want change that is real and want a mayor who fights from the ground up, Prine said, adding that he is not part of the country club crowd and has spent his life on Mobiles streets including a long tenure as a police officer.

Im not there to protect the same old establishment but to build something better, Prine said.

Related content: Public safety emerges as top priority for Mobile mayoral candidates

Jermaine Burrell, a former Mobile city councilman who is also running for mayor, called Cheriogotis and Stimpson as the same status quo. He accused the Stimpson administration of leaving a city that is less safe while making it harder to find affordable housing and attracting new development and investments into the city.

Mobilians I talk to  are ready to turn the page on all of that and move forward with a new vision for our city, one thats focused on all of us, he said.

Cheriogotis is the youngest candidate among the seven running for mayor. Hudsons campaign, in a statement, pointed out his lack of executive leadership experience or operating a large business is problematic.

Wiley Blankenship, the campaign manager for Hudson, said Cheriogotis is Stimpsons handpicked successor, and claimed that Stimpson had been campaigning for him already.

I have a tremendous amount of respect for Mayor Stimpson and his leadership, but it is troubling that he would choose to endorse a candidate with no executive leadership experience in government or even a large business, Blankenship said. I feel like this decision is more about who can be controlled than who would be best for Mobile.

Neither Battiste nor state Rep. Barbara Drummond could be reached for comment.

Different backgrounds

Spiro Cheriogotis, a former Mobile County District judge, speaks after receiving an endorsement from Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson for the city's top political job during a public announcement on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, inside the Greer's St. Louis Market in downtown Mobile, Ala. The city's municipal election is Aug. 26, 2025. John Sharp

Cheriogotis and Stimpson, who are over 30 years apart in age, have different backgrounds. Stimpson rose to become mayor in 2013, after nearly a 40-year career in his familys lumber manufacturing business. He worked his way to CFO and ultimately as its Executive Vice President.

Cheriogotis said he also grew up working in his familys vending business that is based in Dothan. It has since evolved into Pig Out, a barbecue restaurant next to Dothan High School.

I did grow up in a family business, saw it struggle mightily, he said. This was not a multi-million-dollar business.

Cheriogotis spent his youth growing up in Dothan before he went to college at the University of Alabama. He returned to Tuscaloosa to get his law degree in 2011 and moved to Mobile to take a job as a prosecutor in the Mobile County District Attorneys office.

Cheriogotis served on the bench in Mobile County from 2018 until he resigned in January. He called leaving his judgeship the hardest thing I had to do in my professional life.

Hudsons campaign, earlier this year, attempted to tie the resignation as a judge to a 56% pay raise the Mobile City Council endorsed for the next mayor, hiking the salary up to $195,000 annually. Cheriogotis resigned as a judge without having amassed the 10 years of service to be vested in the Alabama Judicial Retirement Fund.

Cheriogotis has previously said his decision to run for mayor was not tied to the pay raise.

Cheriogotis said that his past conversations with Stimpson included seeking advice about whether to run for mayor. Stimpson, he said, responded with questions about being mayor while being a father to three young children.

That was something we talked through, Cheriogotis said about his initial conversations with Stimpson ahead of announcing in January to run for mayor. He didnt make up his mind at that time. Frankly, I didnt ask for his support at the time. I asked for his advice. That is what I needed.

Stimpson said that he is confident he made the right choice and included a spiritual connection to the job.

Im convinced that Spiro and Lucy will see Gods will to our city and are receptive for prayers and support, Stimpson said, adding that being mayor is not easy. But its the most gratifying thing Ive ever done.
FILE - Smokey Robinson attends the screening for "The Apollo" during the 2019 Tribeca Film Festival on April 24, 2019, in New York. (Photo by Charles Sykes/Invision/AP, File) Charles Sykes/Invision/AP

Smokey Robinson has been sued by former female employees alleging sexual battery, assault and false imprisonment. The women are asking for a trial with general damages for several allegations of no less than $50 million.

Four Jane Does filed a suit against Robinson and his wife Frances in Los Angeles Superior Court on Tuesday, all making similar claims that Robinson sexually assaulted them during their employment as housekeepers at his Chatsworth, CA, residence.

The women also said that Frances created a hostile work environment by using ethnically pejorative words and language while screaming at Robinson, and that she did not take proper action to prevent misconduct despite knowledge that hed settled cases from previous women alleging similar assaults.

Representatives for Robinson, the founder of Motown group the Miracles, did not immediately respond to Varietys request for comment.

The lawsuit, reviewed by Variety, details four Does experiences working for Robinson. The first Doe was employed from Jan. 2023 through Feb. 2024 before she was forced to resign due to repeated assault and harassment.

The suit claims that she worked on weekends, when Robinson typically took Frances to the nail salon and would speed home to be alone with Doe.

Once there, he called her into his bedroom and locked the door, and after showering began sexually assaulting her despite her protests. The suit claims he assaulted her at least seven times.

The second Doe worked for Robinson from May 2014 until Feb. 2020 and was assaulted on at least 23 different occasions.

The alleged assaults began in the latter part of 2016, when he texted her to meet her at areas of his residence where closed-circuit cameras were not placed. Upon arrival, he would immediately grab her and begin to penetrate her vagina with his fingers, causing her excruciating pain, and then would proceed to rape her.

The suit also says that he would enjoy ejaculating all over [her] face, much to his satisfaction and her abject humiliation.

Robinson employed the third Doe from Feb. 2012 until April 2024, who claimed similar allegations as the first Doe and says she was repeatedly raped at least 20 times. In one instance, when she resisted his advances, he offered her $500 for oral sex, which she refused.

The fourth Doe worked as Frances personal assistant and chef from Oct. 2006 through April 2024, and says she was first assaulted in 2007 when she accompanied Robinson to his Las Vegas home.

All Does state that they did not take action against Robinson for fear of losing their livelihood, familial reprisal or embarrassment. Some of them were fearful it could affect their immigration status.

 2025 Variety Media, LLC, a subsidiary of Penske Business Media; Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC
Domestic travel officially has a new rule in the U.S.

Starting today, May 7, only state-issued drivers licenses and identification cards that meet the security requirements established by the 2005 REAL ID Act will be allowed for official purposes, including boarding commercial aircraft, according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.

Here are five things Alabama travelers may need to know.

Alabamas REAL ID is known as STAR ID

STAR  which stands for Secure, Trusted, Reliable  is part of the Real ID Act, which modifies federal laws dealing with security, authentication and issuance procedure standards for state driver licenses and identification cards.

Alabama STAR IDs will look like traditional driver licenses except with a gold star in the upper left corners.

Residents can apply for STAR IDs at ALEA Driver License examining offices.

You can see a list of those here.

Applicants must present four documents to verify identity/date of birth, Social Security number and address of principal residence.

Among the accepted documents are a valid, unexpired U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate or a certificate of naturalization.

Other documents will be needed to verify Social Security number and address. You can see a complete list of accepted documents here.

Some other federal documents are accepted instead of REAL ID

These documents include:

State-issued Enhanced Drivers License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)

U.S. passport

U.S. passport card

DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)

U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents

Permanent resident card

Border crossing card

An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)

HSPD-12 PIV card

Foreign government-issued passport

Canadian provincial drivers license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card

Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)

U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential

Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

Travelers can fly without REAL IDs for the time being, but expect delays

Screeners will first ask travelers for a passport or other forms of identification, Tara Corse, TSA federal security director for Alabama, told AL.coms John Roby previously.

A Department of Defense ID along with another government-issued ID would likely be accepted, she said. The requirement also does not apply to children under 18.

Those without a passport or valid secondary ID will undergo enhanced screening, Corse said. That applies as well to travelers enrolled in TSA PreCheck.

Enhanced screening is much more involved: Swabbing individuals, secondary pat-downs  if you have TSA PreCheck, you will not be going through PreCheck, youre going to be going through standard line screening along with additional actions on top of that, Corse said.

Finally, travelers who do not pass additional screening, will be flatly denied and routed back to the airline for rebooking, she said.

May 7 is not the last day citizens can obtain a STAR ID

May 7 is the federal enforcement date, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency wrote in a recent release.

This means if you are 18 and older and plan to fly domestically after May 7, or enter certain federal facilities, then you will need a form of federally accepted ID, which is a STAR ID, unexpired and valid passport/passport card, active military ID, etc.

If you do NOT plan to fly in May or in the immediate future, you still have plenty of time to get a STAR ID from an ALEA Examining Office after May 7, the release continued.

More info on STAR ID can be found here.
The Birmingham Water Works Board Joseph D. Bryant

The city of Birmingham wants to buy the states largest water utility - for a dollar.

The deal is more complicated than it sounds. The city council approved a resolution today offering to buy the states largest water utility - with assets worth more than $1 billion - for a dollar, along with assuming its debt.

The 11th-hour strategy is part of the plan to salvage the water works by keeping it in the citys hands before a state law brings major changes to the utility by stripping Birmingham of its dominance on the operating board.

The plan would effectively make the water works a Birmingham city department.

The state legislature forced our hand on that and now were moving forward with some intentionality about making that happen, Council President Darrell OQuinn told AL.com. If the city were to go through with making this purchase, essentially then we would become the governing body because it would be our asset.

The city of Birmingham at times has officially owned the water works. The last time was in the late 90s before a controversial move when the assets were again transferred back to the independent board.

But the fate of the novel proposal is now in doubt as the Water Works Board today held what might be its last meeting and took no action on the offer.

Instead, the board in a special-called meeting shored up the employment contracts for its senior managers.

The citys proposal to buy the water works was part of a two-front effort to thwart state legislation approved last week that will create a seven-member authority dominated by appointees from outside the city of Birmingham and reduce the citys seats to two.

Mayor Randall Woodfin and council members this morning also announced a federal lawsuit to fight the bill, claiming that the legislation is motivated by racial discrimination.

The city argues that there is no rationale that that board would be better managed simply by changing the demographic proportion of people who sit on it.

Later today Chief U.S. District Judge Emily C. Marks denied the citys request for an emergency motion for a temporary restraining order before Gov. Ivey could respond, but set a hearing for May 15 on the request for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction.

The utility has total assets valued at about $1.26 billion.

Utility leaders met for more than an hour in a closed-door executive session today, returning only to offer contracts to system managers and the boards executive assistant.

Details of the contracts were not discussed publicly, and officials said the arrangements were still being shored up.

Board Chairwoman Tereshia Huffman again assailed the bill and efforts to change the utility as filled with misinformation about this utility and our leadership team.

We will continue fighting for this utility until that bill is signed, she said.

The board then adjourned without taking any other action.

Todays torrent of activity comes just a day after Woodfin, council members, and some Birmingham-area Democratic legislators gathered for an unpublicized strategy session in a conference room at the Birmingham Zoo.

The water board did not publicly discuss the citys action. Instead, they agreed to new contracts or amended agreements with the executive assistant, four assistant general managers, and to creating a new position of deputy general manager and general counsel for Mark Parnell, their longtime lawyer.

The water boards inaction on the proposal to join the city was a surprise, OQuinn said.

I would have expected them to coordinate their efforts with what we did today, he said. This is a rapidly developing situation. Weve been in this together fighting for the same cause and I certainly hope they would be open to considering that type of deal.

Governor Kay Ivey could sign the bill into law at any time ending the terms of the current board and ending the era of Birmingham dominance over the utility.
A tow truck from Parking Enforcement Systems is about ready to pull a car from a private lot in Birmingham's 5 Points South area on Sept. 28, 2024. (Paul Beaudry / pbeaudry@al.com)

A Birmingham towing company employee was agitated from a confrontation with one driver when he fired multiple gunshots and killed another, according to a recent federal court filing.

Progressive Insurance shouldnt have to defend or cover the shooter, Robert Lee Witherington Jr., the company now argues. Nor should it have to cover his employer, Parking Enforcement Systems, or the businessman who owns the lot where the shooting took place, it says.

The claims come in an April 30 federal filing by Progressive Insurance in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama.

Progressive is asking a federal judge to declare that it is not responsible for paying in the wrongful death suit that arose after Witherington fatally shot Adarius Peterson in 2022.

Progressive also contends that Robert L. Crook Jr., who owns the lot where PES stores towed cars and who is one of the named defendants in a wrongful death suit stemming from Petersons fatal shooting, was not covered by PES Progressive commercial insurance policy.

The insurance company questions in the filing whether that policy actually provides coverage for PES in the wrongful death case.

Witherington was already angry before Peterson, 29, arrived to pick up his car at PES, according to allegations in the wrongful death suit, which are repeated in Progressives filing.

Approximately one hour before his arrival, Witherington engaged in a heated, expletive-laden argument with a Birmingham woman at PES while she attempted to retrieve her impounded car...Shortly, after Petersons arrival at the PES premises, an already agitated Witherington, acting as an agent and employee of PES, shot Peterson in the chest multiple times killing him.

Petersons mother, Angela R. Peterson, named PES, Witherington and Crook as defendants in the wrongful death suit.

The fatal shooting was one of several controversies involving PES, a Birmingham towing company notorious for more than a decade for practices drivers and city officials have labeled predatory.

In the most recent filing, Progressives description of the fatal shooting and what led up to it is derived from allegations in the wrongful death suit itself. That case, filed in Jefferson County Circuit Court, remains unresolved.

The afternoon of the shooting, Peterson was working as a delivery driver for downtown restaurant Encore Rouge, which is located in a complex called The Waites, a mixed-use residential and commercial property, according to court documents.

Between deliveries, Peterson was parked at The Waites and was towed from its lot by PES. The shooting that occurred when Peterson went to get his car back has been ruled justifiable by the Jefferson County District Attorneys Office.

Investigators presented the information gathered to the Jefferson County District Attorneys office for review. Following the assessment, the Jefferson County District Attorneys Office ruled the actions justifiable, Birmingham police have said.

Despite that ruling, Petersons mother filed the wrongful death suit, seeking damages.

Attempts to reach attorneys for PES, Crook and Witherington for comment were unsuccessful Tuesday.
Lawrence County authorities are seeking help in identifying a body found in a burning vehicle Wednesday morning.

According to the sheriffs office, deputies responded to a vehicle fire call on Lawrence County Road 55, between County Roads 460 and 7, at about 8:30 a.m. The road connects the communities of Landersville and Youngtown.

First responders encountered a mid-2000s model Nissan Altima, possibly gray or white, that had apparently left the roadway and caught fire. It was a 4-door vehicle, possibly with a chrome door handle.

A man found inside the vehicle was pronounced dead. Due to the extent of the fire damage, vehicle identification numbers (VINs) were unrecoverable.

The remains have been transported to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences for further examination and identification. The road incident is being investigated by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).

Anyone with information about a missing person who may have been traveling in this area is being asked to contact the Lawrence County Sheriffs Office at (256) 974-2500 or dispatch at (256) 974-9291.
The Alabama state Senate version of Parkers Law, which would exempt nursing mothers from jury duty for up to two years, is headed to back to the Senate for final approval before it can go to Gov. Kay Iveys desk.

Only one meeting day remains for Alabamas 2025 legislative session.

The House on Wednesday approved SB76, brought forth by Sen. April Weavers, R-Brierfield, by a vote of 101 yays and 0 nays.

Although the Senate approved an earlier version, the bill has since been amended by the House Judiciary Committee to require not only a written statement, but also a certificate of birth or other government document or medical record certifying the birth of the child a mother is nursing before she can be excused from jury duty.

Before it can go to Iveys desk, the Senate must approve the amended version of the bill.

If signed, SB76 would codify what was established by an administrative order passed down from the Alabama Supreme Court earlier this year which states that a nursing mother of an infant child clearly qualifies for the excuse from jury service under state judicial code.

We know that administrative rules can be easily reversed with the stroke of a pen, Weaver said previously.

We just feel that this gives them [nursing mothers] the protection that they need.

This legislation comes in response to claims from several Alabama mothers that they were harassed and threatened by Jefferson County judges for bringing breastfeeding babies with them for jury duty.

Kandace Brown said earlier this year that she was even threatened with DHR for bringing in her three-month-old daughter Parker.

And this issue is not confined to Jefferson County, according to Weaver.

She said previously that she had received at least 40 calls from nursing mothers who were going to be made to serve on a jury in Alabama.

Under SB76, if a mother can provide to the court the two required documents, she would be exempt for up to 24 months, according to the bills text.

After the two years are up, the mother may be called to reappear for jury duty.

Brown thanked Weaver and DuBose Wednesday for their work on this legislation, and said she is eager to see the bill pass.

I am so thankful to see how our state leaders saw a need for Alabama families and took all the necessary actions to ensure our rights and protection, she said.
The Alabama Legislature has given final passage to a bill to prohibit the use of cellphones by students in public school classrooms.

The bill, called the FOCUS Act, passed the Senate on Wednesday by a vote of 30-2. It had already passed the House of Representatives.

It goes to Gov. Kay Ivey, who can sign into law. Ivey said during her State of the State address in February that she supported the bill.

The bill, by Rep. Leigh Hulsey, R-Helena, says that starting with the 2025-2026 school year, no student may possess a wireless communication device in any public elementary or secondary school building or on the grounds thereof during the instructional day unless the wireless communication device is turned off and stored off their person in a locker, car, or similar storage location.

Officials have said many Alabama school systems already have such policies, but some do not.

The State Board of Education passed a resolution urging local systems to adopt a policy limiting the use of cellphones by students in schools.

The bill requires all local systems to adopt a policy in line with the classroom phone ban by July 1, 2025.

The bill also requires school systems to adopt a policy for students to safely use the internet.

And it requires the State Department of Education to develop a digitally delivered course on the risks of using social media and how to do so safely.

The ban on cellphone usage carries a couple of exceptions, including for emergencies and if phones are used as part of a students individual education plan, such as for a special needs student.

Sen. Chris Elliott, R-Baldwin County, proposed an amendment to allow an exception for students to call or text their parents.

Sen. Donnie Chesteen, R-Geneva, the Senate sponsor of the bill, opposed the amendment.

Chesteen said students can contact their parents through the school office. He said the no-phone policies have worked well in systems that have used them.

The Senate rejected the amendment 22-9.
State Rep. Rick Rehms bill to make Juneteenth a state holiday is headed to Gov. Kay Iveys desk for signature after the Alabama Senate approved it on Wednesday.

Juneteenth, or June 19, commemorates the day upon which Black slaves learned of their emancipation in 1865.

Former President Joe Biden signed a bill in 2021 recognizing the day as a federal holiday.

And Gov. Kay Ivey has declared it a state holiday each year since.

Democratic lawmakers have attempted to pass similar bills in the Alabama legislature but have been unsuccessful.

Rehm, R-Dothan, previously said he understood where some of these lawmakers frustrations were coming from and added that he had largely been driven by his constituents to file this legislation in his first term.

To me this is a very important holiday thats recognized, he said.

Under the initial version of HB165 state employees would have also been given the option to observe either Jefferson Davis birthday or Juneteenth.

But it was amended early on to delete this provision.

Jefferson Davis was the former president of the Confederate States which fought to preserve slavery during the Civil War.
This is a photo taken by Sandi Stong of a group of women marching in Washington DC as part of the Gay & Lesbian March on Washington in 1987. Groups from all over the state travelled together to the march and this picture is a group of women from Birmingham. This picture was donated by Beth Gunderson in 2018.

A bill to change the Board of Trustees of the Alabama Department of Archives and History, a proposal that originally came in response to a lecture on LGBTQ history, is on the verge of passing in the final days of the legislative session.

The Alabama House on Tuesday passed SB5 by Sen. Chris Elliott, a Republican from Baldwin County.

On Wednesday morning, Elliott asked the Senate to concur with a change made by the House, which would be final passage and send the bill to Gov. Kay Ivey, who could sign it into law.

But that did not happen quickly.

Sen. Rodger Smitherman, D-Birmingham, opposed the change the House made in the bill and said he would use the Senate rules allowing filibusters to delay a vote on Elliotts request.

The House removed a section of the bill that required Senate confirmation for Archives and History board members.

Smitherman, who took part in a filibuster in February to delay the bill before it passed the Senate, said Wednesday he was willing to hold his nose and accept the bill, but not the amendment removing Senate confirmation from the appointment process.

Other Democratic senators - Robert Stewart of Selma and Merika Coleman of Pleasant Grove - joined the filibuster.

About three hours into the filibuster, Elliott changed his position, asking the Senate to send the bill to a conference committee to work out the differences between the House and Senate versions.

But more delays appeared to be coming.

Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton, D-Greensboro, said he was prepared to talk an hour on every bill because a local bill he is sponsoring has stalled in the House.

The delays have consequences because Wednesday is the next-to-last day of the legislative session and many bills await a final vote.

Those include dozens of local bills that affect only one county, bills that are high priorities for legislators.

A high-profile bill on the Senate calendar Wednesday would require school systems to adopt policies restricting the use of cell phones in classrooms.

Another bill on the calendar would create a scholarship program for children of law enforcement officers.

SB5 would change who appoints Archives and History board members. Under current law, the board members appoint their own replacements.

The new board structure calls for 16 members - one from each of the states seven congressional districts, plus nine at-large members - plus the governor or a person designated by the governor.

Under SB5, the governor will appoint eight members, the Speaker of the House will appoint four, and the president pro tempore of the Senate will appoint four.

One of the speakers appointees and one of the pro tempores appointees will be picked from three nominees submitted by the House minority leader and the Senate minority leader, respectively.

The members will serve staggered six-year terms.

When the Senate passed the bill, it said that board members were subject to confirmation by the Senate. But the House took that provision out. Thats what sparked Smithermans filibuster Wednesday morning.

Elliott first introduced the bill after Archives and History hosted a lecture called Invisible No More: Alabamas LGBTQ History, in June 2023.

The program was part of Archives and Historys Food for Thought series, a monthly lunchtime program the agency has hosted for more than 30 years.

Elliott said he and other legislators opposed Archives and History hosting the lecture and asked Archives and History Director Steve Murray to cancel it.

Murray did not cancel the program and released a letter explaining his decision.

Murray wrote that the lecture was appropriate under Archives and Historys mandate as spelled out in state law. The program examined the early histories of LGBTQ organizations in Alabama, including groups in Auburn, Tuscaloosa, and Birmingham starting in the early 1970s, he wrote.

Elliott said the Archives and History board, and other state boards, should be responsive to elected officials and the people they represent. He said it was not a good policy for state agencies to have self-perpetuating boards.

He has said that is the main point of the bill and has praised the work of Archives and History and the displays in its museum in Montgomery.

Coleman, one of the Democratic senators taking part in the filibuster, said it was important that Archives and History help to promote understanding of the role of minority and diverse groups, like LGBTQ people, in the states past.

For some people to feel some peoples history is not worthy of being taught or heard, thats unfortunate, Coleman said.

This story will be updated.
Gov. Kay Ivey has signed into law a bill to allow the Alabama Farmers Federation to offer a health care plan for its members that will not be subject to the same laws and regulations as health insurance programs.

Lawmakers passed the bill, by Rep. David Faulkner, R-Mountain Brook, last week.

The legislation had strong bipartisan support, passing the House 98-1 and the Senate 30-2.

Supporters said the plan would provide an affordable alternative for farmers and self-employed people who are ALFA members and who struggle to pay for health insurance.

People who have access to employer-sponsored plans would be ineligible to buy the plans unless the cost of the plan is less than 9% of their household income.

The bill drew opposition from some health care groups, including Alabamas largest health insurer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama.

Opponents said the plan will create an unlevel playing field because it would not have to comply with the Affordable Care Act and could deny coverage to people with expensive, preexisting medical conditions, which insurance plans cannot do.

Read more: Political heavyweights wage battle that could greatly alter Alabamas health insurance market

The bill does carry some protections for consumers.

Benefits could not be capped at less than $2 million per enrollee.

Members could not lose coverage or have their premiums increased because of an illness or medical event.

Eleven other states, including Tennessee, have farm bureau health insurance plans, according to the Senate sponsor of the bill, Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur.

Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell thanked Ivey for signing the bill.

Farmers and other small business owners face incredible challenges when it comes to health coverage, Parnell said in a press release. The Alabama Farmers Federation is excited to help our members address soaring health care costs by providing an option through Alfa Health Plans.

Edited on May 8 to say that people with access to employer-sponsored plans are not eligible for the ALFA plan unless the cost of the plan is less than 9% of their household income.
A bill that would require app stores to verify the age of individuals creating accounts in Alabama will likely not become law this year.

The House State Government Committee was set Tuesday to consider SB 187, sponsored by Sen. Clyde Chambliss, R-Prattville. But the committee did not have a quorum for its scheduled meeting, preventing a vote on the bill.

With just two days left in the 2025 legislative session, the committee would have to meet Wednesday to give the bill a chance of passage on May 14, the last scheduled day of the session, but Rep. Chris Sells, R-Greenville, the chair of the committee, indicated that legislation will be worked on over the summer to be introduced in the next legislative session.

More from Alabama Reflector

The bill would require app stores to obtain parental consent for users identified as minors before they can download or purchase apps or make in-app purchases. The bill would have also prohibited developers from enforcing disclosures or terms of service on minors without parental consent.

Apps would have to be approved by the parent and be age-appropriate for the child, so that would take care of the problem of the phones that are already out there, and thats what this is about, protecting children, said Sells, who sponsored a similar bill in the House.

A companion bill, SB 186, also sponsored by Chambliss, was passed by both chambers and sent to Gov. Kay Ivey Thursday. It will require smartphones and tablets manufactured on or after June 1 and activated in Alabama include a pre-installed filter capable of blocking obscene material. Sells said that will address the issue going forward.

Justin Hill, a spokesperson for NetChoice advocating for limited internet government control, free speech and enterprise across the country aid we all agree on the why for the bill, but disagreed on the basis of free speech. He suggested that the bill could face legal challenges.

There are 17 states where this bill was filed, they run afoul of the First Amendment in our belief. And we do a lot of work in this space. We have a litigation team that litigates a lot of similar bills. This one has not made it to the point of litigation yet, Hill said.

NetChoice has sued or is in litigation with at least 12 states. Georgia was sued in March after passing a law that would require children to acquire parental consent to use social media.

Melea Stephens, a Birmingham marriage and family therapist and a board member of the National Center on Sexual Exploitation, claimed to have seen cases in her private practice of children being exploited on commonly used apps. She said that minors are entering contracts with multibillion dollar companies when they sign up for an app without parental permission.

We do not allow minors to go into a bank and sign a contract because they cannot comprehend the risk involved, Stephens said, adding that the legislation is based on contract law, not content moderation or free speech issues.

Rachel Holland, a spokesperson for Meta, a vocal proponent of the legislation, said in an email after the bills passage that they look forward to working with lawmakers on this legislation.

Parents want a one-stop shop to verify their teens age and grant permission for them to download apps in a privacy-preserving way. The app store is the best place for it, and one-third of US states and the US Congress have introduced bills recognizing the central role app stores play, she said in a statement.

Holland also cited a poll from the Alabama Policy Institute, a conservative think tank, suggesting 83% of voters support parental approval in app stores.

Rep. Russell Bedsole, R-Alabaster, said that whether or not this legislation is the right piece, he feels that parents need help monitoring childrens behavior online. He said that he uses a service that requires his children to ask for permission before downloading an app on their phone. Despite approving apps that seemed harmless to his children, Bedsole said there was still some unwanted content in the form of advertising or surveys.

Bedsole said that despite these concerns, lawmakers should work with groups like NetChoice to address them because of their complexity.

Weve got to have someone who represents the development of these apps to be at the table, because the technology behind it is so complex that, as a parent alone, I need some help, Bedsole said.
Trump to announce the US is changing the name of the Persian Gulf. In this photo, President Donald Trump speaks before Steve Witkoff is sworn as special envoy during a ceremony in the Oval Office of the White House. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) AP

President Donald Trump plans to announce while on his trip to Saudi Arabia next week that the United States will now refer to the Persian Gulf as the Arabian Gulf or the Gulf of Arabia, according to two U.S. officials.

Arab nations have pushed for a change to the geographic name of the body of water off the southern coast of Iran, while Iran has maintained its historic ties to the gulf.

The two U.S. officials spoke with The Associated Press on Tuesday on condition of anonymity to discuss the matter. The White House and National Security Council did not immediately respond to messages seeking comment.

The Persian Gulf has been widely known by that name since the 16th century, although usage of Gulf of Arabia and Arabian Gulf is dominant in many countries in the Middle East. The government of Iran  formerly Persia  threatened to sue Google in 2012 over the companys decision not to label the body of water at all on its maps.

On Google Maps in the U.S., the body of water appears as Persian Gulf (Arabian Gulf). Apple Maps only says the Persian Gulf.

The U.S. military for years has unilaterally referred to the Persian Gulf as the Arabian Gulf in statements and images it releases.

The name of the body of water has become an emotive issue for Iranians who embrace their countrys long history as the Persian Empire. A spat developed in 2017 during Trumps first term when he used the name Arabian Gulf for the waterway. Irans president at the time, Hassan Rouhani, suggested Trump needed to study geography.

Everyone knew Trumps friendship was for sale to the highest bidder. We now know that his geography is, too, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif wrote online at the time.

On Wednesday, Irans current foreign minister also weighed in, saying that names of Mideast waterways do not imply ownership by any particular nation, but rather reflects a shared respect for the collective heritage of humanity.

Politically motivated attempts to alter the historically established name of the Persian Gulf are indicative of hostile intent toward Iran and its people, and are firmly condemned, Abbas Araghchi wrote on the social platform X.

Any short-sighted step in this connection will have no validity or legal or geographical effect, it will only bring the wrath of all Iranians from all walks of life and political persuasion in Iran, the U.S. and across the world.

Trump can change the name for official U.S. purposes, but he cant dictate what the rest of the world calls it.

The International Hydrographic Organization  of which the United States is a member  works to ensure all the worlds seas, oceans and navigable waters are surveyed and charted uniformly, and also names some of them. There are instances where countries refer to the same body of water or landmark by different names in their own documentation.

In addition to Saudi Arabia, Trump is also set to visit Doha, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, which also lie on the body of water. Originally planned as Trumps first trip overseas since he took office on Jan. 20, it comes as Trump has tried to draw closer to the Gulf countries as he seeks their financial investment in the U.S. and support in regional conflicts, including resolving the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza and limiting Irans advancing nuclear program.

The U.S. president also has significant financial ties to the countries through his personal businesses, over which he has retained ownership from the Oval Office.

The move comes several months after Trump said the U.S. would refer to the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America.

The Associated Press sued the Trump administration earlier this year after the White House barred its journalists from covering most events because of the organizations decision not to follow the presidents executive order to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America within the United States.

U.S. District Judge Trevor N. McFadden, an appointee of President Donald Trump, ruled last month that the First Amendment protects the AP from government retaliation over its word choice and ordered the outlets access to be reinstated.

___

Associated Press writers Zeke Miller in Washington, Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Meg Kinnard in Chapin, South Carolina, contributed to this report.
Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin is urging Gov. Kay Ivey to veto a bill that would tax, regulate, and restrict sales of gummies, drinks, vapes, and other consumable products containing chemicals derived from hemp, a legal form of marijuana.

In a post on Facebook, Woodfin said the bill was a step backward and would hurt small businesses in Birmingham.

Instead of moving us closer to justice and equity, this bill risks dragging us back to an era of cannabis criminalization, overregulation, and lost opportunity, the mayor wrote.

The Legislature passed the bill on Tuesday. Ivey can sign it into law.

Your feedback matters What questions do you have about Alabama regulating products containing THC?

In 2022, Woodfin testified before Congress in favor of cannabis legalization. Prohibition of cannabis has taken far too high a toll on Black and brown community, Woodfin told a committee at the time.

In his social media post today, Woodfin talked about the citys efforts to reduce the impact of criminal sanctions against marijuana use.

Birmingham has led the way in on cannabis reform and giving people a second chance. Through Pardons for Progress, weve pardoned over 15,000 residents with low-level marijuana convictions  because we believe nobody should be held back in life over something that should have never been criminal in the first place.

HB445 threatens that progress. By limiting access to legal hemp products, burdening small businesses with excessive restrictions, and imposing punitive taxes, this bill doesnt just regulate  it criminalizes.

Supporters of the legislation, which passed on Tuesday, say the products containing THC - also called Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10 - are unregulated and dangerous, especially for young people.

The bill, HB445 by Rep. Andy Whitt, R-Harvest, would place a 10% tax on the products, limit their availability to retailers licensed by the Alcoholic Beverage and Control Board, require testing and approved labels, and make other changes.

At public hearings on the bill, law enforcement representatives said the tighter regulations were needed.

Supporters of the industry said they were not opposed to regulations, including prohibiting sales to minors, but said the products are safer than alcohol and should remain available for adult users.

They said the bill would have negative economic consequences.

Woodfin agreed with those points.

It locks out entrepreneurs, particularly Black and brown business owners who are often first to be policed and last to get licensed, Woodfin said.

It creates barriers where we should be building bridges  to opportunity, to equity, and to public health solutions that actually work.

Alabama should be investing in the future of this industry  not regulating it into irrelevance. We can and must craft smarter laws that protect consumers, ensure safety, and grow our economy without resurrecting the failed policies of the past."
Not often are we presented with a perfectly binary option to issues in the political realm. The question of Joe Bidens diminished mental capacity is an exception to that notion. In the runup to the election (and even well before), the majority of Americans had observed that the mans mental health was in decline; the overwhelming majority of journalists in the legacy media claimed that it was not. The matter is no longer disputed; so, the yes or no question is obvious:

Were legacy media journalists covering up the truth and therefore malicious propagandists, or were they simply unable to detect the truth, making them incompetent dolts?

When thinking of our institutional journalists, Im put in mind of the Wizard at the end of The Wizard of Oz. Hes been unveiled as a fraud, and now hes floating away in a balloon; untethered and unable to control the device, he shouts to the crowd, I cant come back; I dont know how it works! Well, at least the Wizard had a unique charm, as well as the character to own his mendacity, traits that no one is assigning to the reporters, editors, and publishers that together are the puzzled and puzzling members of our legacy media.

Puzzled because they cant understand why a majority of people have lost faith in them; puzzling because the reason is so obvious.

Norah ODonnell, Andrea Mitchell, Bob Acosta, Joy Reid, Lester Holt, Don Lemon, Ruth Marcus, Mehdi Hasan, and Chris Wallace have all quit or been fired from their jobs. (There is a host of others, but a finite life span demands brevity, and the list continues to grow.) The fact is, their employers no longer wanted them, and the imperative context is the boss doesnt let someone go who is doing a great job and making the company money, full stop.

These journalists captained shows or wrote for newspapers that bled viewers and readers and therefore money because they were reflexive and predictable in their jobs. Name any political issue, and all viewers, listeners, or readers of those mentioned, even those who are like-minded, however unconsciously, knew, within parameters, what the take would be. Those parameters would be: macro, that which will reflect badly on America; and micro, that which will reflect badly on Republicans. And within those parameters exists what Ill label a floor: Ignore everything unfavorable to Democrats. Because the template never varied, the flaw is obvious: When you can only look left, you miss whats on the right.

This flaw has existed but has been disguised for decades; however, now, due to alternative media, Donald Trump, and a febrile and reckless Trump Derangement Syndrome, the disguise has been ripped away, exposing a distorted and malignant image, one bent on reflecting to the world its own mephitic center. Examples of the flaw abound; however, the determination to deny it by those affected and accused in this particular instance has led to the explosion of a cottage industry of defense and excuse, flourishing like mushrooms sprouting through cow paddies after a spring rain.

Speeches are being given, books written, and denials issued to explain what happened and why. In unison, mainstream journalists have determined with solemn passion that they were incompetent dolts; incompetent because they missed the story; dolts because they allowed themselves to be duped and conned by Bidens handlers and the Democratic Party.

However, why should the rest of us assume that self-admitted incompetent dolts who missed one huge story will somehow get its corollary right? Moreover, and to my mind infinitely worse, this narrative of events -- that they missed the story because they were deceived -- is an insult to the publics intelligence in that it demands that we accept that they innocently whiffed on what was painfully obvious to the entire world. In other words, belief in what they are peddling makes us part of their incompetence! Its their expectation that we are to be willing accomplices to our being duped by them! Outrageous.

That outrage, coupled with experience, leads to the other possibility: that the journalists in legacy media were complicit in the cover-up of Joe Bidens eroding cognition. Of course, they cant admit to this because, to them, it makes everything worse. It proves, charitably speaking, that they are dishonest, which, in turn, deepens our mistrust. As a result, theyve chosen what, again to them, is the less bitter pill, summed to: We are incompetent dolts. (By the way, in this reasoning, they are mistaken; the path to redemption begins with honest confession.)

To review: A gross and flagrant error was indisputably made, and there are two possible interpretations.

First, and the one thats being pled in lockstep is We just missed it; further refined into We just missed it because it was hidden from us, and we are the innocent fools and tools of Democratic Party apparatchiks. Its their fault, what can you do about it? To which the obvious and evident response has been and remains: not listen to you.

Second, the error was deliberate. This means our legacy media lied and continues to lie to us; we know they are lying, and they know we know they are lying. This is the behavior of a thug in that the subtext is Yeah, so what? What are you going to do about it? To which, the obvious and evident response has been and remains: not listen to you.

In either case, what is emphatic truth is that legacy media journalists are either incompetent or liars. Ill let them choose, but why should the rest of us tune in?

For a moment, lets put aside criticism and proffer a bit of advice. Honesty, as in admitting complicity in the cover-up, followed by further honesty in reporting, would, more quickly than is commonly imagined, regain news consumers.

From illegal alien crime to Biden administration censorship, to fraud and waste uncovered by DOGE and a score of others, there are news stories still in need of exposition by institutional media. (Imagine an unbiased 60 Minutes expose on what DOGE has uncovered! I know, but we can dream.) Mainstream media journalists can tell these stories and regain relevance, or ignore them and continue the slide into irrelevance. At present, just as the quality of Bidens acuity is no longer argued, inarguably, people are ignoring formerly trusted news sources.

Legacy media can come back, but its exponents have to remember how things work.

KH Cutts is an actor, screenwriter and political analysis dilletante.

Image: Gage Skidmore
In this allegorical scenario, Honey and Hank moved into a cozy home in a small community in New England 30 years ago. The next day, their neighbor, Irene, brings over a hot, homemade casserole to welcome them to the neighborhood.

Within minutes, Honey and Irene connect in a phenomenon known as human chemistry. They just seem to get each other. And as their relationship evolves, they learn that they are on the same page on just about everything: raising kids, favorite foods, must-see TV programs, Mommy-and-Me classes, even the crocheting and knitting that their grandmothers taught them. And each of them has three children, with two of them having the same name!

As luck would have it, their husbands also hit it off and have quite a lot in common, the biggest that both are on-the-road salesmen.

Over the years, the couples become so close that they vacation and celebrate birthdays and holidays together. Honey and Irene even exchange house keys and list each other as emergency contacts on medical forms.

All good...for 30 years!

Uh-Oh...

Then, one day, Honey gets a phone call from her bank manager, Mr. Hervey, requesting that she and Hank come in for a sit-down.

Of course, Honey says, speculating with Hank that the investment they made with the banks money manager has either yielded a brilliant bonanza or  yikes  has gone bust.

When they sit down the next day with Mr. Hervey  whom they call Linc, short for Lincoln  they notice a decidedly serious look on his face.

Look, he says. We live in a small town where everyone knows everything about everyone else. I know Irene and her husband Fred very well. And I know how close youve been over all these years. I even know that you exchanged house keys in case of an emergency. And Honey, I know that you gave Irene the PIN to your bank account, again in case of an emergency.

At this point, Honey and Hank are nonplussed, having no idea where Linc Hervey is going with this strange introduction.

Well, I hate to tell you this, he says, but we just discovered that over the years  many, many years  Irene has been withdrawing money from your account  very cleverly, so you would never notice  but now it has added up to a small fortune. A real fortune.

When Mr. Hervey tells them the amount, they are both dumbstruck, speechless, almost out of breath.

Enter Politics

Both Hank and Fred, as mentioned, were businessmen, capitalists, conservatives. At the same time, both men tolerated that their wives were liberals with do-gooder instincts to save the climate, save the whales, save humanity! Both men had decided that it wasnt worth arguing, because most other things in their lives were so harmonious.

But sitting in front of the bank manager, who had just informed him that his wifes best friend was a colossal fraud, a thief, and worthy of a felony conviction, Hank immediately took out his iPhone and looked up the numbers of his lawyer and his local police department, with the intention of having Irene (and possibly her husband Fred, as a co-conspirator) served with papers and then arrested and, he hoped, indicted and imprisoned.

Honey, on the other hand, started screaming at the bank manager. How dare you accuse Irene of any wrongdoing? You are on a witch hunt. You have no proof!

Unfortunately, Honey, we have empirical proof, Linc said, all scrupulously documented on our computers, going back years, in fact decades.

Skip to 2025

Is this scenario not exactly what Americans  and, for that matter, the entire world  have been witnessing in real time as Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) discover the malfeasance, fraud, and criminality of not the fictional housewife Irene, but the real live people who run our massive government institutions? To name only a few, there are the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Pentagon, and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). All of these have been fleecing our country  with our tax dollars  not of millions or billions, but of trillions of dollars!

In fact, DOGE has been unearthing the deep corruption involving both Republicans and (mostly) Democrats and proving the maxim that to unearth criminal behavior, always, always, always follow the money!

We have learned that our elected officials have sent vast fortunes to terrorist groups with eye-popping millions upon millions of dollars. And looky here:

Among other egregious examples of the kinds of waste, fraud, and abuse DOGE has been uncovering is that tens of millions of dead people are on our Social Security rolls, many of them children and people over 115 years old! And look what DOGE found  that $4.7 trillion in payments from the Treasury Department were almost impossible to track. That is trillion, with a T!

DOGE has also found that California, New York, and Massachusetts, three deep-blue states  surprise, surprise!  were responsible for over half of the fraudulent unemployment claims in the United States since 2020, again involving massive mountains of money.

Enter the Pearl-Clutchers

OMG, bleat the perpetually sky-is-falling, glass-is-half-empty leftists. This is illegitimate! While, according to Victor Davis Hanson, Musk acts completely under executive authority.

Like Honey, they are shooting the messenger. That is understandable. After all, most of the criminality has been committed by the people they trusted, sent money to, voted for, based their entire belief systems on. Talk about an existential threat!

But unlike Honey, if it were their own personal bank accounts that were robbed, you can be sure they would be squarely in Hanks camp, going after the crooks with the intention of bringing them to justice.

They remind me of a child having a temper tantrum in Aisle 4 of a supermarket  flailing arms, copious tears, kicking and screaming, crashing the cans and breakable jars off the shelf, simply because Mommy didnt buy those all-important Animal Crackers. Clean-up in Aisle 4 is then blared over the loudspeaker.

That is what DOGE is all about: cleaning up the monumental financial mess that our greedy and corrupt elected officials and government agencies have inflicted on all of us.

Here is a way to keep track of the immense savings  and criminality  DOGE is uncovering every day. So far, literally billions  going on trillions  in fraud, waste and abuse.

May this grand effort to Make America Great  and financially solvent  Again continue unimpeded!

Joan Swirsky is a New Yorkbased journalist and author. Her website is www.joanswirsky.com, and she can be reached at joanswirsky@gmail.com.

Image: JD Lasica via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0 (cropped).
The only thing better than learning from your own mistakes is learning from someone elses. Unfortunately, todays urban leaders havent been paying attention. Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland, Chicago, New York, and other cities could have avoided their current dire conditions if only they had heeded the lessons of Detroit.

In 1950 the Motor City was home to nearly two million people and built half the cars in the world. Today two-thirds of those people are gone and its auto industry is a shell of its former self. After decades of decline, Detroit is on the way back with a new can-do attitude. But its troubled history gives todays urban leaders a master class in how not to govern.

Leaders who make the same choices today that Detroit made starting sixty-five years ago have a 100% chance of seeing the same failure. The proof is in todays headlines.

Detroits path shows that urban success depends on four factors, which all of todays failed cities have fumbled. Conversely, all successful cities -- Houston, Phoenix, and Charlotte, for example -- take a different tack and have the growth and prosperity to prove it.

Lesson #1: Protect your people. If law-abiding taxpayers dont feel safe, they head for the exits. Citizens rightly expect to be insulated from harm, for criminals to be arrested, and for convicted wrongdoers to be punished. San Francisco and other failed cities have turned justice on its head, normalizing criminal behavior and refusing to keep bad actors off the street.

Lesson #2: Provide good schools. Families with school-age children are the backbone of a livable city. Parents have to feel their children are getting a quality education. Today Chicago has some of the poorest performing students in the country. Though enrollment has fallen, the school budget has skyrocketed while test scores remain abysmal. Educators and politicians blame everyone but themselves.

Lesson #3: Keep costs manageable. Failed cities see each resident and business as a piggy bank to be plundered. They squeeze out every dollar possible with local income taxes, soaring property taxes, taxes on utilities, fees for everything. Los Angeles drains its people dry. Houston nurtures them. Thats one reason why a hundred people a day move from California to Texas, and why Houston will overtake Chicago in 2030 as Americas third-largest city (you heard it here first).

Lesson #4: Minimize corruption. Some corruption is inevitable; its the nature of a fallen world. Yet successful leaders do their best to contain it while failures let it run rampant. Detroit had periods of exemplary government that made it one of the most prosperous and vibrant cities in the nation. Then it ran off the rails. Now, against all odds, its current government is efficient, transparent, and lives within its means.

Another challenge Detroit had to address is to acknowledge its own poor decisions. You cant learn from mistakes if you cover them up. City leaders will do whatever they can to pass the buck and blame their problems on the economy, the Federal government, past administrations, or anything except their own short-sightedness and lack of resolve. Detroiters consistently blamed racism and white flight for their historic decline. Yet the facts tell us that Detroit suffered more in the 1950s -- when freeways both displaced thousands of residents and gave those who remained easy access to suburban living -- and in the 1970s, when the urban school district collapsed after a Supreme Court ruling against forced school bussing, than in the 1960s, when Detroit was in flames on every front page in the nation.

Difficult as the 1967 riots were for the Motor City, key facts were hidden by leaders pushing their own narrative. Far from being angry and despairing, black families in Detroit that summer earned 95% of white income and enjoyed an unemployment rate lower than the national rate for whites. Groundbreaking black reporters including Louis Lomax, the first African-American TV journalist with a national following, and Sandra West, a UPI reporter who lived in the riot zone, wrote that the destruction was instigated by professional out-of-town operatives. Blacks and whites set fires together, watched stores burn together, went to jail together. The first sniper arrested by police was white. Congressman John Conyers tried to calm the situation, telling his fellow black residents to stop looting and go home, and had his office torched for his trouble.

These are not the characteristics of a race riot. Yet history has been hijacked to paint a picture very different from reality. So, instead of being guided by the truth of the past, cities are subject to being driven into a ditch by revisionism and heresy.

Every failing city in America follows the old Detroit playbook: fail in key leadership areas and then cover up the facts. Inexcusable. The true history of the Motor City allows urban leaders and voters to see into the future: if they enact the same misguided policies today, they will achieve the same tragic results tomorrow.

Detroit has learned from its past and is now a city on the rise. The sooner other cities take its lessons to heart, the sooner they will prosper.

John Perry is the author of more than a dozen books on American history, biography, and current events, as well as a prolific ghostwriter. His latest book is The Detroiting of America: What happened to the Motor City, Why other cities followed, How Detroit is coming back (Fidelis, 2024).

Image: Ken Lund
On May 4, Politico published a hit piece titled Everyone knew it but him: Tiffany Trumps father-in-law has seen role diminished since the transition. This article isnt just misleadingits a prime example of how Washingtons entrenched bureaucracy and its media allies target effective outsiders who threaten their hold on power. In this case, Massad Boulos, a man with deep knowledge and decades of experience in the Middle East and Africa, is the latest to face these unwarranted attacks.

Boulos serves as Senior Advisor to President Donald Trump on Middle East and Arab Affairs and Senior Advisor for Africa at the U.S. State Department. Hes not a product of the D.C. establishment, nor does he come from a long diplomatic pedigree or the hollowed-out ranks of the so-called political elite. Hes not embedded in the tight-knit circles of think tanks and research centers that have long dominated foreign policy.

These experts have spent decades building careers off the status quo, accomplishing little more than perpetuating failure. Boulos, however, is cut from a different cloth. He brings real-world experience, business acumen, cultural understanding, andmost threatening to the bureaucratsa proven track record of getting things done. And thats exactly why theyre so desperate to tear him down.

Ive seen this playbook before. In 2017, my friend and mentor, General Michael Flynn, was unjustly pushed out of the Trump administration by the very same class of entrenched government operatives and self-righteous media players. Flynn was an outsider who challenged the status quoand he paid the price. Whats happening to Boulos now mirrors that same strategy step by step.

Lets break down the Politico narrative and how its built on gossip, half-truths, and anonymous sources with an agenda. The central claim is that Boulos is out of place, overreaching, and ineffective. This is nothing more than an attack from those who see him as a threat to their control.

Then, of course, Politico had to drop the name of Trumps powerful Chief of Staff, Suzie Wiles, as though that somehow adds credibility to their narrative. They suggest that Wiles contacted Boulos to inform him he wouldnt have access to a government plane. The goal? To paint Boulos as powerless and subordinate, to bolster a fake story thats more about character assassination than actual facts.

Take the supposed scandal over the plane. The article suggests that Boulos role has diminished because of a flight snafu. But heres the truth: the only issue was that Boulos had to switch from a government flight to a commercial one due to routine logistical constraints. Yet, despite these travel hiccups, he successfully conducted high-level meetings across Rwanda, Congo, Kenya, and Ugandaengaging with leaders who were eager to welcome American leadership in a region that is often ignored by Washington.

Politico also takes issue with a meeting Boulos held with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, portraying it as rogue or unauthorized. Yet, the U.S. Embassy in Abuja publicly posted about the meeting afterward, proving it was perfectly legitimate. This wasnt a mistakeit was a strategic win for U.S. diplomacy. Boulos direct engagement with one of Africas most important leaders is something American foreign policy in Africa has long lacked.

But instead of recognizing these diplomatic wins, Politico critiques Boulos for freelancing and acting without permission. What theyre really angry about is that Boulos stepped into a vacuum.

For years, Africa policy at the National Security Council (NSC) and the State Department has been neglected, and no one was stepping up to take charge. Boulos filled that voidnot by forcing his way in, but because he was the only one willing to act. In just a few weeks, he has delivered results that others couldnt achieve in years.

Secretary of State Marco Rubioa man not known for handing out praise lightlystated it best:

Politico is out with another fake story. The story they should be covering is the recent agreement signed between Rwanda and the DRC, which was only possible because of Mr. Boulos leadership. America is fortunate to have Mr. Boulos expertise and experience at the State Department.

That agreement between Rwanda and the DRC was one of the most significant regional breakthroughs in years. It helped de-escalate a long-simmering conflict, and it was largely due to Boulos sustained diplomacy with Presidents Felix Tshisekedi of the DRC and Paul Kagame of Rwanda.

Boulos has met with over a dozen heads of state and foreign ministers, from East to West Africa. These arent photo ops; these are meaningful meetings that have moved the needle on regional security, economic collaboration, and American interests abroad.

What Politico refuses to acknowledge is that this kind of impact is rare in todays Washington. The traditional playersthe career diplomats, think tank fellows, and former lobbyistshave had their shot. Theyve had years to engage with Africa and the Middle East, but have failed to deliver meaningful results. Now, Boulos is stepping in and actually getting things done. And instead of applauding him for his successes, Washington elites attack him for not doing things their way.

And lets address the snide innuendo about Boulos proximity to President Trump, simply because hes Tiffany Trumps father-in-law. This kind of elitism and arrogance is exactly why Americans are fed up with Washington. It completely ignores the actual results on the ground and reduces public service to petty gossip. What matters is the work being done, not whos related to whom.

Massad Boulos is not seeking the limelight. He isnt trying to build a personal brand. But in a void of leadership, he has emerged as an official who is actively engaging with regional partners, building trust, and moving American foreign policy forward. Hes already secured the release of detained Americans, stabilized volatile border regions, and revived key U.S. infrastructure projects in Central Africaprojects designed to counter Chinas growing influence.

The real issue here isnt that Boulos is ineffective. Its that he doesnt fit the mold of the typical D.C. bureaucrat, and that terrifies those entrenched in the system. He didnt ask for their permission. He didnt climb the approved career ladder. But in the short time hes been in office, hes delivered results that make the traditional players look outdated and inept.

I know Massad Boulos. I know his family. I know what they stand for. They are grounded in values of integrity, hard work, and service. And Ive seen this pattern before Steve Witkoff and Pete Hegseth faced similar attacks, and now its Boulos whos being targeted. Its not about credentials. Its about control. The swamp doesnt like to be challenged, and when they are, they strike.

But in the long run, results speak louder than smears. Massad Boulos is delivering real wins for American diplomacy, and no amount of anonymous quotes or fake headlines will change that.

Massad Boulos by Gage Skidmore. CC BY-SA 3.0.
As President Trump floods the zone to fix the Biden mess on immigration and other issues that won him a historic second term, the Trump-deranged New York Times and the rest of the mainstream media cannot contain their outrage as he delivers on the very promises that earned him an overwhelming electoral mandate.

The Lefts response is flooding its own zone, littering the U.S. judicial system with anti-Trump litigation in a quest to overturn a popularly elected president and the policies he was elected to enact.

There have been more than 200 legal challenges made against the Trump administrations policies, most notably border security. Over 100 legal rulings have at least temporarily paused President Trumps actionsfrom immigration to DOGE-led government efficiency.

Ask yourself: Is this really about the rule of law? Or is it the petty politics of losers?

This level of legal intervention is unprecedented, and the Trump agenda needs helpin part because of his success in draining the Washington swamp. President Trump has done more to clear out entrenched bureaucracy than any president in U.S. history, especially at the Department of Justice (DOJ), where too many career bureaucrats refuse to put the will of the people ahead of their own personal policy preferences. Many DOJ lawyers have resigned, while others were reassigned to counter their petty politics, and others may even be tanking cases at President Trumps expense (and to the liberal medias delight).

All of this has left President Trumps legal defense team understandably under-manned, without enough quality legal muscle to flex. His team is pulled in hundreds of different directions while seeking to keep their promises for American voters.

President Trumps agenda cannot rely solely on the DOJs legal teams to combat the Lefts external threat or the resistance from within. With liberal lawfare multiplying like anchor babies, the Trump team needs experienced, skilled manpower to do everything, everywhere, all at once to fight back against the onslaught.

Case in point: During one recent hearing, only one DOJ lawyer represented the federal government while eight lawyers appeared for the anti-Trump plaintiffs.

It is this very lack of resources in the fight against Resistance 2.0 that calls on all patriotic Americans to support President Trump however we can. For those of us in the America-loving nonprofit legal world, there has never been a more important time for outside groups to jump into the fight and stand with Trump 2.0 against leftist lawfare.

Groups like the Coolidge Reagan Foundation need to be active in every case and every court they can to defend the peoples agenda. For instance, the Coolidge Reagan Foundation has filed an Amici in the U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C. unequivocally arguing the Trump administration should not be held in contempt over recent deportation flights to El Salvador. It is, after all, exactly within the scope of the presidents executive authority to invoke the 1798 Alien Enemies Act and keep America safe from illegal alien criminals and terrorists. The Lefts problem isnt that he did it; it is that they dont like who he did it to.

This is not about politics or even President Trump himself; this is about stopping unelected judges from taking American democracy out of the hands of the people (and their elected president) and into their own hands due to personal policy preferencesor just because Orange Man Bad. American voters have grown increasingly weary of the endless assault on their democracy, whether its smearing President-elect Trump with the Russian collusion hoax in 2016, trying to stop him from running in 2024, or halting his policies now. When courts appear to so obviously play ball with leftist lawyers, they diminish public respect for our judiciary and the rule of law.

Pro-Trump or not, now is the time for outside groups to fight back against leftist lawfare, and hold courts to their dutyon principle. Otherwise, the Democrats who couldnt win or steal the 2024 election will have unelected judges steal it for them. How is that democracy?

Dan Backer is a veteran campaign counsel, having served more than 100 candidates and political committees, overseeing more than $150 million in political spending over the past decade. He practices law as a member of Chalmers, Adams, Backer & Kaufman LLC and serves as General Counsel for the Coolidge Reagan Foundation.

Image generated by AI.
For Venezuela's fraudulently elected Nicolas Maduro, in Moscow to pay tribute to his patron Vlad Putin, yesterday was kind of embarrassing for both of them.

Way under the radar, Secretary of State Marco Rubio had been busy, figuring out a way to make both of them look like weaklings, and with perfect timing, he succeeded:

The U.S. welcomes the successful rescue of all hostages held by the Maduro regime at the Argentinian Embassy in Caracas.



Following a precise operation, all hostages are now safely on U.S. soil. Maduro's illegitimate regime has undermined Venezuela's institutions, violated human  Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) May 7, 2025

According to Bloomberg News:

Five top aides of Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado escaped the country after the US helped them foil a siege of the Argentine Embassy in Caracas where they had been holed up for 15 months. The group is now on US soil after a precise operation to free them, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Tuesday evening in a post on X, without elaborating. Machado, who has spearheaded the strongest movement to end Nicolas Maduros 12-year rule, praised the impeccable and epic operation for the freedom of five heroes of Venezuela. Maduros government had placed permanent check points surrounding the embassy, while his security forces took control of a private house neighboring the residence. The timing of the operation is still unclear, but it was announced when Maduro and other senior officials were in Russia to attend a parade to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany by the Soviet Union and its allies.

So the U.S. probably sent the commandos in, Entebbe-style, and was able to secretly spirit the five hostages holed up in the Argentinian embassy to safety in the U.S., only announcing it after there was nothing Maduro could do about it. The Venezuelans had been trapped there for 15 months without water or electricity in a state of seige, the Maduro secret police and goons all around them, their only "crime" winning the July 2024 election as campaign workers for Edmundo Gonzalez and Maria Corina Machado, who trounced Maduro 70% to 30%. The enraged dictator then moved to arrest them -- and succeeded at snatching nearly 1,000 others to his torture-chamber dungeons -- at which point the five fled for the Argentinian embassy which promptly granted them asylum. (This is what real asylum cases look like.)

Maduro then threw the Argentinian diplomats out, and Argentina got Brazil to take care of the embassy. Then Maduro threw them out, and the hostages were left behind, desperately waiting for some kind of help as the goons closed in -- which as of yesterday came from President Trump and his stellar lieutenant, Marco Rubio, who had been working on this all along.

The hostages are now safe and sound in the states and the freedom-loving Venezuelans are rejoicing, expressing their deepest heartfelt thanks.

Una operacion impecable y epica por la Libertad de cinco heroes de Venezuela.



Mi reconocimiento y agradecimiento infinito a todos los que la hicieron posible.



Vamos a liberar a cada uno de nuestros 900 heroes presos por esta tirania y a 30 MILLONES DE VENEZOLANOS!



Y con la https://t.co/xe5rQomIyH  Maria Corina Machado (@MariaCorinaYA) May 7, 2025

Google translate:

An impeccable and epic operation for the freedom of five heroes of Venezuela. My infinite recognition and gratitude to all those who made it possible. We will free each of our 900 heroes imprisoned by this tyranny and 30 MILLION VENEZUELANS! And with Freedom, will come irreversible change to a Venezuela of Prosperity, Justice and Peace!

Maduro su regimen asesino y sus esbirros SON derrotables!! Venezuela  sera LIBRE!! pic.twitter.com/19JviUI7tX  CamiloTorresVillamil (@cetvillamil) May 7, 2025

Gracias por compartir esta maravillosa noticia!

Juntos hasta el final! Sabiamos que no era facil! Sabemos que es posible! Dios Bendiga a Venezuela y su gente! FE! pic.twitter.com/1UTDdwXlPw  Rodica Pavlidis (@RPavlidis) May 7, 2025

La Libertad de Venezuela esta mas cerca de lo que muchos creen.



El amanecer de la Libertad esta llegando.



Ansioso de verte otra vez en las calles de Venezuela con el pueblo que te ama y te adora.



Contigo

HASTA EL FINAL!



Y mas alla.  Reinaldo (@LiderLiberal) May 7, 2025

Argentina is thrilled:

The photo below shows the hostages at the embassy earlier.

 | URGENTE: Tras mas de 400 DIAS como rehenes, los cinco heroes del equipo de Maria Corina Machado que estaban secuestrados en la Embajada de Argentina en Caracas HAN LOGRADO SALIR.



Estan a salvo, ya se encuentran fuera de Venezuela. Esto es una gran noticia. pic.twitter.com/sAep8b4pwH  Agustin Antonetti (@agusantonetti) May 6, 2025

Two important pieces of fallout are worth noting:

One, all the talk that President Trump had abandoned the Venezuelans in favor of business deals with Maduro and considered the opposition "weak" was complete rubbish. Trump may have allowed that kind of talk to go on, but only to deceive Maduro. An operation of this kind takes intensive planning and practice, as it is highly failure-prone, and requires airtight secrecy. Trump never abandoned Venezuela's normal people.

It went off like clockwork and Venezuelans are reading it as a sign that their socialism-ravaged country will finally be free, thanks to President Trump. Some think Trump was deployed by God to answer their long years of prayers. For them, Trump is an answered prayer and they are heartened.

Two, Thor Halvorssen, a Venezuelan (despite his Norwegian-sounding name) filmmaker and full time human rights activist, outlined the brutal, humiliating implications for Maduro of this successful raid:

Under the noses of Maduros feared intelligence services, several political prisoners slipped out of Venezuela in what appears to be a major exfiltration operation. This isnt an escape its a breach. A regime that tortures and imprisons thousands cant even guard its own https://t.co/OFEho0ICkH  Thor Halvorssen (@ThorHalvorssen) May 7, 2025

Here's the text of it:

Under the noses of Maduros feared intelligence services, several political prisoners slipped out of Venezuela in what appears to be a major exfiltration operation. This isnt an escape its a breach. A regime that tortures and imprisons thousands cant even guard its own cells. The dictatorship is cracking and weak. If innocent people can be exfiltrated they can also seek the capture of those for whom there is a major reward. I think @ConElMazoDando s Diosdado Cabello has a $25M price on his head. Let alone Maduro and the other leaders of the Cartel de Los Soles and Tren de Aragua.

Meaning:

The U.S. has Venezuela penetrated. Maduro's secret police had one job, and they failed to do it, meaning, they are worthless. If the U.S. can take out hostages closely guarded with all the resources of Maduro's Cuba-controlled secret police, it can take out anyone, including Maduro and his cronies -- at a time and place of President Trump's choosing.

Like Manuel Noriega.

That the operation happened when Maduro was in Moscow with Putin sends the same message to Poots, too, that Trump can get him if he wants to. Go ahead and lull yourself into thinking Trump and Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelensky, are on the outs, Pooty. It probably now dawns on Vlad that he can find himself as surprised as Maduro, because Trump doesn't reveal all his cards to such people, and at times, gives them the opposite impression.

It's great news for the Venezuelans who can now see that Trump is a hundred times more effective against their country's dictator than any loud-talking neocon whose rhetoric and measures have all failed.

Maduro will soon find himself running out of options -- playing nice or being bad each has its risks for him with Trump. If he's nice, he will do everything Mr. Trump tells him to do and even that is no guarantee he will avoid being the next Noriega. If he's not, Trump has the Alien Enemies Act, whose case would grow stronger as Maduro acts up, in addition to these commando raids. Either way, Maduro is over a barrel, and humiliated to boot, thanks to Trump.

He lost big. He can't win. And for Trump, this has to be sweet. The hostages were people who won an election and had that victory taken away from them by a socialist fraudster admired by many Democrats. Maybe stealing elections is going to start having consequences, and there is no telling where this can go.

Image: Screen shot from X
The good news is that Israel has announced that it intends to clear Hamas out of Gaza once and for all. The bad news is that it seemingly wants to hand Gaza right back to the same people who created the conditions for the October 7, 2023, massacre.

I have on my coffee table a 1967 Life Magazine commemorating Israels stunning triumph in the Six-Day War. I wrote at length about the coverage here and here, noting especially how Israel was admired back then.

What Id like to focus on now, though, is a prescient editorial from Lifes June 23, 1967, edition, discussing the inevitable problem Israel will face from the hostile Arabs who had refused to live in a Jewish Nation after 1947, yet who now found themselves living within Israels newly defined borders:

The 20th Centurys excellence  and its horrid defects  find some of their most vivid monuments in the hate-filled camps of Arab refugees. The refugees have been supported by the voluntary U.N. contributions of some 75 governments, not to mention the Inner Wheel Club of Hobart, Australia, the Boy Scout Union of Finland, the Womens Club of Nes, Iceland, the Girls High School of Burton-on-Trend, England, and (for some reason) a number of automobile companies including Chrysler, Ford, G.M. and Volkswagen. The philanthropy, governmental and private, that has aided these displaced Arabs is genuine  and admirable. The stupidity and political selfishness that have perpetuated the problem are appalling. Down the ages, there have been thousands of episodes in which whole peoples fled their homes. Most were assimilated in the lands to which they fled. Brutally or beneficently, previous refugee groups were liquidated. Not until our time have there been the money, the philanthropy, the administrative skill, the hygienic know-how and the peculiar kind of nationalism which, in combination, could take a wave of refugees and freeze it into a permanent and festering institution. In the wake of Israeli victories, the refugee camps received thousands of new recruits, and there may be more if, as seems likely, Israel successfully insists on some enlargement of its boundaries. Thus the refugee problem, one of the main causes of Middle East instability, is about to be magnified. (Emphasis mine.)

In 2005, then Prime Minister Ariel Sharon thought he could solve the problem by having Israeli forces withdraw entirely from Gaza. If the troops werent there, he reasoned, the Arabs wouldnt hate Israel. In response to this act of magnanimity, Lifes hate-filled refugees handed their government to Hamas, an explicitly genocidal Iranian proxy.

Since then, independent Gaza became a mini-nation with a non-existent economy (residents destroyed the valuable greenhouses the Jews left behind). This strip of land, which operated free from Jewish control, was flooded with funds from foreign nations and NGOs that hate the Jews (and, sadly, also from America).

The unearned money Gaza received did a few things: It provided food for Gaza residents, turned terrorist leaders into billionaires, and transformed the entire region into a military weapon, with every house, hospital, and school serving as an armory and training camp.

Additionally, Hamas turned the earth beneath Gaza into a network of tunnels from which to attack Israel, and in which to hold weapons, fighters, and terribly abused Jewish kidnapping victims.

It was from this military base that Hamas, aided by thousands of Gazan civilians, with the remainder cheering on the slaughter in rapturous ways, launched the bloodiest, most sadistic, and deadliest attack on Jews since the Holocaust. In the immediate aftermath of the attack, 75% of Gazas residents supported what happened. It also emerged that Gazas residents were complicit in holding (and abusing) the kidnapped Israelis after the attack.

X screen grab.

Its in this contextthat Gazans en masse have been a festering, hate-filled sore on Israels western edge, and happily participated in slaughter and abusing Israelisthat we learn about Israels plans for the region:

Israel called up its military reserves Sunday to prepare for a massive new operation, Gideons Chariots, in which it plans to reconquer Gaza and eliminate Hamas, neighborhood by neighborhood, over several months. The Israeli government says that it will carry out the operation if Hamas does not agree to a hostage deal by the end of the forthcoming visit of President Donald Trump to the region, which will be from May 13 to 16. Military analysts describe Gideons Chariots as a classic clear, hold, build strategy to root out Hamas and create new, credible, demilitarized civilian authorities to govern the Palestinian communities in Gaza. [snip] Israel plans to keep the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in Gaza indefinitely. U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested taking control of Gaza, once the Israeli military has removed Hamas, without U.S. troops involved.

I applaud Israels understanding that it needs to root out Hamas, which is an army and an obvious target. After all, Hamas fighters dont quit. Driven by their sick sexual fantasies of those 72 virgins (or, more likely, raisins) in Paradise, and by their sadistic urges, they will always regroup to kill Jews. So, yes, destroy Hamas if it means flattening every square foot of Gaza.

But about that idea of handing the region over to Arab civilian authorities while maintaining an indefinite IDF presence? Thats a terrible idea.

Why do I know that? Because thats exactly what Israel started doing in 1967. The problem is that, as Life Magazines editors immediately noted, the region is filled with pure hatred that would surely fester. That same hatred has had almost 60 years since those wise words to become even more concentrated and toxic. Add to that the fact that Muslims generalized animus to Jews has been festering for 1,500 years, ever since Mohamed announced that, the Jews having hurt his feelings, it was every Muslims duty to kill them.

The 1967 situation ended with the October 7, 2023, massacre. Now, Israel seems determined to repeat the cycle.

George Santayana famously said, Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it. The Israelis are going one better: Those who can remember but still cannot learn from the past are condemned to repeat it. Until the festering sore of genocidal anti-Jewish animus is physically removed from within Israels borders, this will not end.
If you like American Thinkers content, please consider subscribing here for an ad-free experience and access to an exclusive, weekly newsletter offering insight from the editorial staff.

Leaked documents reveal that health professionals at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center knew that Audrey Hale, the disturbed trans individual who slaughtered six innocent people during a school shooting rampage in 2023, had suicidal and homicidal ideations years before the killing spree.

Vanderbilt University Medical Center knew about Audrey Hale's "homicidal fantasies" for years before she murdered a bunch of Christian children.

So of course they arrest the officer who may have first leaked that info. https://t.co/19Ci9e5wCo pic.twitter.com/xUz6RckMXq  Ken Silva (@JD_Cashless) May 6, 2025

Who knows how long Hale had been receiving mental health care by 2019, but that was four years before the shooting. Mental health professionals noticed Hales evident anger grow with greater frequency, and she admitted she had thoughts of killing herself and killing otherswhich is why I use air quotes to describe these people. What kind of professionals and doctors dont alert law enforcement when they have an obviously sick and homicidal patient saying her only escape is death?

But what does the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation do though?

Do they go after the failed therapists who neglected to warn the authorities?

Do they go after the drug companies making money off of Hales anguish to her detriment? You cant take synthetic cross-sex hormones without suffering serious mental issues, and heres a censored truth: almost all (or all of them entirely, depending on who youre asking) school shooters are eventually found to have been hypermedicated, specifically on SSRIs or barbiturates:

100% Of All Teenage School Shooters In 52 Years Were On An SSRI Antidepressant Medication.



Every One Of These Drugs Has A Black Box Warning: To Cause Aggressive Violent Behavior & Homicidal Actions.



The Warning Stresses Extreme Caution To Those Under Age 24.



The Black Box is pic.twitter.com/T7nZIytmk3  Valerie Anne Smith (@ValerieAnne1970) March 5, 2025

And here:

RFK Jr. : Almost Every Shooter on SSRIs



Anecdotally, it appears that almost every one of these shooters were on SSRIs or some other psychiatric drug... and NIH will not study that because it will offend the pharmaceutical industry.

pic.twitter.com/H9tlQBA8KI  Erin Elizabeth Health Nut News (@unhealthytruth) May 10, 2023

Do they go after Vanderbilt and any responsibility in the tragedy it may bear?

No, no, and no. They go after the man who leaked the documents, getting the truth that the government wants to hide out to the public:

BREAKING: Former Metro Police Lt. Garet Davidson has been arrested in charged in connection to leaking documents belonging to the Covenant School shooter.



Davidson was arrested by the TBI and the Robertson County Sheriff's office this morning. pic.twitter.com/l4EsrojnoD  Chris Davis NC5 (@ChrisDavisMMJ) May 6, 2025

Image: Free image, Pixabay license.
If you like American Thinkers content, please consider subscribing here for an ad-free experience and access to an exclusive, weekly newsletter offering insight from the editorial staff.

Move over Karmelo Anthony, theres a new accused killer darling on the scene.

Rodney Hinton, Jr., a black man from Ohio, reportedly ran down a retired white police officer who was directing traffic for a college graduationand Hinton has garnered generous support, both from the black community and the left. The officer allegedly murdered by Hinton was a man named Larry Henderson, a public servant who dedicated more than three decades of his life to his community, serving across a number of different law enforcement agencies.

Prosecutors allege a calculated and premeditated motive: just prior to Hinton running Henderson down, Hinton had watched bodycam footage from an officer-involved shooting in which Hintons own son, 18-year-old Ryan, was killed. Ryan had been caught up in a foot-pursuit police chase after officers were investigating reports of a stolen vehicle (the one in which Ryan, and three others, were sitting) and when the group was approached by law enforcement, Ryan ran and hid. When officers closed in, Ryan jumped out, brandishing a gun, and was, understandably, shot.

Of course its horribly tragicno one wishes this is how this young mans life endedbut as Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge said of the incident, We do not expect the officers to wait until theyre fired upon before neutralizing threats, and rightfully so. At least, until progressives can have their way, and completely hamstring our law enforcement like theyve done with our military. (Lets not forget Barack Obamas ridiculous, and frankly criminal, changes to the rules of engagement which were masterfully manipulated by the enemy; this is the end goal for our cops too.)

The black community is disproportionately dysfunctional, but I can say without hesitation I desperately want them to get it together, for everyones sake. And of course, Hinton is a major part of the problem. If your son is a gang-banging thug at 18, that certainly speaks to how poorly you parented as a father.

Heres Hinton, unrepentant, aggressive, and scowling at Hendersons brothers in uniform:

Social media users are praising Cincinnati father Rodney Hinton for m*rdering a random police officer after his son was shot by police in a carjacking incident.



People have lost their d*mn minds.



Last week, 18-year-old Ryan Hinton was shot by police who claimed he had pointed a pic.twitter.com/5YhMefDsCs  Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) May 6, 2025

While I look at that display as entirely sickening and reprehensible, it earned Hinton a great measure of support. He raked in thousands of dollars by crowdfunding:

Blacks are now donating to Rodney Hinton jr, who murdered a random police officer after his dindu son was killed by police after he pulled a gun on them. pic.twitter.com/vbLn4ZifW7  I,Hypocrite (@lporiginalg) May 7, 2025

At least one of those campaigns has been shut down, but here are some of the comments from donors:

Rodney Hinton is disgusting subhuman scum who murdered a police officer because his son was killed by police when he tried to steal a car then escape.



Look at these comments & try to tell me that these people can ever operate in society with us.



They hate us & want us dead. pic.twitter.com/VSb9CrhXW5  Grassfedguru48 (@grassfedguru48) May 6, 2025

Others applauded Hintons eye for an eye actions, suggesting this is good fatherhood:

No wonder these kids so rarely have a chance at a productive and successful lifetheyre taught that theyre justified to murder innocent people, and theyre completely deluded in their thinking. Heres what Ryans grandmother had to say about the shooting of her grandson:

[W]e need to do something about change in training and diversity and understanding us as a black culture. We as black people, we dont deserve to be killed just because we're running away from the police. Were scared just as much as they are, whether we did something right or wrong.

Ryan wasnt killed simply because he was running away. He was killed because he was armed, running from a stolen vehicle, and the cops who deal with the scum of the earth every single day theyre on duty are not going to wait to be shot at before they shoot. And, while this may be an uncouth to say, blacks commit most of the crimea figure thats even more exaggerated in places like Cincinnati. After being exposed to the worst of humanity, where a vast majority of the violent offenders are black, theres no way that Cincinnati cops arent going to be even more on-edge around blacks waving guns in their faces.

How about just not engaging in thuggish and criminal behavior? Im not scared Im going to be shot by cops because Im not stealing cars and brandishing gangbanger, extended-magazine pistols while on the runits not because Im white.

And, heres what Ryans cousin said:

Damarlyn Howard, Ryans cousin, got emotional, saying Ryan was supposed to be home the night before he was shot and killed. He had no business being in a stolen car. He had a bed to come home to, Howard said, sharing that Ryan had trouble getting into the familys house so he slept in a car.

Im sorry, but how does an 18-year-old kid living at home get locked out all night? I know where my children are at all times, and when theyre 18 and still living under my roof, theyre going to have a curfew. I really cant even think of a situation where one of my boys couldnt get into our home, because Im a very active and involved parent. I tuck both of my sons in every night, and one is fixing to turn 14.

Again, this just speaks to the dysfunction at homeand now, Larry Henderson is dead because of it.

Image from X.
Among the tragedies from failure to think clearly about life is the loss of millions of innocent lives because abortion, an issue of morality, was made political and became a partisan affair, which any sane person knows it is not.

Embracing the lie that what a pregnant woman carries is not human, pro-choice players of politics put winning over justice when it comes to protecting new human life. Such wanton carelessness regarding life has no place in society.

Killing unwanted babies  no baby is unwanted  has no legitimate support in reason or argument. The viciousness of thinking that what a pregnant woman carries is an inconsequential product of sex is demonstrated in the cutting off of arms and legs, the puncturing of heads, and other medical procedures of the abortion industry.

It ought to be enough to convince anyone that it was exactly that inconsequential product of sex that made you, me, and everybody else come into the world.

An extreme degree of dullness of thought marks the pro-choice stand. Start with the irrelevant determination of when life begins, so important to abortionists. It is irrelevant because life begins when egg meets sperm, whether planned, accidental, or otherwise. This issue is settled by nature; it isnt determined by cogitation. The deliberate interference with what follows conception, as with the willful termination of human life before birth, is an act that conflicts with reason, nature and humanity.

What form of insanity is it that makes the termination of a new human being a just cause? Its the pathology exhibited by those who successfully went through life in the womb but refuse to allow others an equal right to live.

It is past-due time to straighten the thinking of those who believe that abortion is a matter of choice. Killing a developing infant in the womb is an act of homicide, proven in cases of double homicide that involve pregnant women.

I emphasize that you and I and everybody else are here because of that phase of life so many regard as inconsequential that began when a human egg united with a human sperm cell.

The Supreme Court denied this natural right of being born when it legalized abortion in Roe v. Wade, something that cannot be derived from the Constitution, from the natural order, or from common sense. Which is why that decision could not stand and was inevitably retracted.

Pretending that willful abortion is an option in pregnancy has nothing to support it in civil or moral law. The pro-choice claim is illegitimate and its arguments fallacious to their face. Its nonsense to claim that a private decision determines which baby shall be born and which shall not be born. Privacy in this matter strikes out because it ignores the role of two others intimately involved: the father and the other body inside the mothers body. The rant over its my body contradicts the facts. After conception, there are a minimum of three bodies involved. That the coming child cant communicate vocally is no evidence that it is not one of a trio of intimately related human beings.

It must be said again: we all necessarily came through this helpless stage of life. We are here because it was not interrupted.

In a humane society no choice to kill innocent human life is allowed. America must face this basic fact. It does not matter how long a Supreme Court mistake persists as the Law of the Land, such as in Roe v. Wade. That error in jurisdiction held its own defeat. Which is where all judicial decisions must end that violate the moral law as well as the Constitution.

The muted screams of millions of babies denied life because they werent wanted  no baby is unwanted  will ever be the indictment and conviction of those who by that denial show that they do not really care about life. The approval and support of willful abortion communicates both a contempt for life and a sense of self-hate that are inimical to sanity and corrosive of community.

I am sorry if these remarks have been offensive to anyone, but the truth must be heard over the din of politics, opinions and arguments.

Image: Public domain.
They sip $18 matcha oat milk lattes in multi-million-dollar coastal fortresses, attend galas guarded by private security, and tweet their grievances about America from iPhones made possible by capitalism. And yet, if you believed the words of the Obamas, Ilhan Omar, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and their ilk, youd think they were broadcasting from the dungeons of a medieval regime rather than the freest nation in the worlds history.

Lets stop pretending this is normal.

In her now-standard tone of wounded enlightenment, Michelle Obama once said she was never truly proud of her country until her husband was nominated for president. What a curious definition of patriotism. Not landing on the moon. Not defeating Nazism. Not the sacrifices of 9/11 first responders or Lincolns moral clarity. No, she found pride only when her family got into the spotlight.

For all his charm and eloquence, former president Barack Obama spent eight years delivering what might as well have been a global apology tour. He bowed to monarchs, lamented Americas past, and chastised us in Cairo and Berlin. He spoke of arrogance as though it were uniquely American  never mind that were the first global superpower to spread freedom instead of tyranny.

U.S. rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn), the walking paradox, fled the wreckage of Somalia, was granted asylum by American generosity, was educated on our dime, and was elected to the halls of Congress. She repaid that gift with venom, accusing the very nation that rescued her of systemic rot. She mocked our soldiers, smeared our institutions, and has never found a camera she couldnt scold us from.

U.S. rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), meanwhile, gets misty-eyed over her grandmothers roof in Puerto Rico while somehow blaming the United States, not the islands decades of mismanagement. She poses theatrically at border fences, slingshots words like concentration camps around as though shes never read a history book, and lectures truck-drivers and steelworkers about privilege, all while basking in celebrity status and reality TV optics.

This is not mere criticism of policy. This is contempt for the country itself.

It would be easy to ignore these people, to roll our eyes and say, Well, Twitter isnt real life. But they hold actual power. They influence classrooms, policy, and foreign perception. They are, for better or worse, cultural weathervanes and pointing due south.

Their message is insidious: that America is not a flawed but noble experiment, but a broken, racist, cruel, and irredeemable place. That our founding ideals are a facade, our progress a mirage, and our patriotism a cloak for oppression.

And yet...they stay.

They dont flee to socialist utopias. They dont renounce their citizenship. They cash the checks, sign the book deals, rake in Netflix money, and soak in the safety provided by the very system they claim is rigged.

We used to laugh at such hypocrisy. Now we elect it.

Heres a dose of reality they wont teach in Ivy League lecture halls or TikTok town halls: America is the greatest country on Earth.

Yes, with our scars. Yes, with our debates. But look around. People still drown trying to get into this country. Not out. People flee socialism, war, and corruption for the chance, just the chance, to work two jobs and maybe own a used Honda. And many make it. Ask your local immigrant restaurateur or truck mechanic.

Yet Americas homegrown elites, who live with more luxury than 99.9% of the world, act as if theyre survivors of some national trauma. They mistake online praise for courage. They imagine themselves as rebels, oppressed from the comfort of Marthas Vineyard.

Lets be very clear: Criticism is not the problem. America needs criticism. It thrives on it. Thats the genius of our system: open dialogue, freedom of the press, accountability.

But criticism without gratitude? Thats rot. Thats arrogance. Thats a betrayal of the very freedoms they exploit.

As Winston Churchill said, The empires of the future are the empires of the mind. And in the minds of these self-styled revolutionaries, America is not the beacon on a hill; its the villain in their play. Their vision of utopia is not liberty, but control. Not equality of opportunity, but equality of outcome by coercion. Not debate, but silencing. Not earned greatness, but inherited grievance.

Whats ironic, maybe tragic, is how much America has bent over backward for these voices. We elevated them and gave them platforms, legitimacy, even reverence. And what did we get?

Bitterness.

No country is perfect. But only in America can you despise the nation openly and be rewarded for it. Try being this critical in Beijing. Or Tehran. Or Havana. Write a blog post about the Supreme Leader and see how long you stay above ground.

Here, you can shout your dissatisfaction from every rooftop and still sleep safely beneath the flag you claim to loathe.

That flag isnt just a symbol. Its a shelter. A promise. One soaked in the blood of the young and the brave. One that deserves not blind allegiance, but basic acknowledgment.

So many ordinary Americans, teachers, cops, mechanics, and moms are growing weary of these lectures. They know struggle. They know service. And theyre tired of being told theyre part of the problem by people who couldnt change a tire if their Tesla had a flat.

This isnt a partisan issue. Its a moral one. You dont need to love every war, law, or leader. But you should love the nation that gave you the freedom to protest in the first place.

America is not radioactive; its radiant. It shines even now through the fog of cynicism. But it needs its champions  not apologists, not ingrates, but champions.

So, to those with power and platforms, heres a simple challenge: Try gratitude. Just once. Thank the people who made your life possible. Thank the country that let you rise. And if you cant manage that? Kindly step aside. Millions of us still believe in this grand, glorious, imperfect, miraculous experiment, and were not done building it yet.

Image: nrkbeta via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0.
[This post opened with commentary about a report that the Bridgend County Borough Council in south Wales recently funded a sex education PowerPoint presentation that was shown to teenage students at a number of schools. However, we have been informed that this report was inaccurate. The original material did include references to consensual choking during sex, but those materials were not shown in the classroom . We have deleted that part of the post, but retained Mr. Utter's other commentary about fetishistic material in American classrooms.]

The Supreme Court of the United States recently agreed to hear oral arguments in the religious liberty case, Mahmoud v. Taylor, involving Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) in Maryland, the district that has decided to include in its pre-K through fifth-grade language arts curriculum picture books that feature homosexual and cross-dressing characters.

Pre-K through fifth-grade?!

Worse yet, the district has banned both parental notification and the option for parents to opt out of exposing their children to these wildly age-inappropriate materials for any reason. As a result, a number of parents of diverse faith backgrounds are suing the district. Good for them. The indoctrination and abuse of their kids should be stopped immediately.



According to reports, the district openly acknowledges that various LGBTQ books were brought into the schools and that: Teachers are expected to fold them into the curriculum as they would any other book.

The LGBTQ storybooks were added as part of MCPSs commitment to provid[ing] a culturally responsive  curriculum that promotes equity, respect, and civility.

MCPS believes that [r]epresentation in the curriculum creates and normalizes a fully inclusive environment for all students and supports a students ability to empathize, connect, and collaborate with diverse peers and encourages respect for all.

I have to call bulls*** on that line of reasoning.

If the school district wanted to create and normalize a fully inclusive environment for all students, why not fold other books into the curriculum? Books specifically touting heterosexuality, for example. Or books lauding conservative thought. How about introducing them to the Bible at this early age?

But thats not going to happen. Instead, kids may soon be taught that they need to get consent before drugging or stabbing a partner every time drugging or stabbing is an option.

The West is hell-bent on choking itself to death, via ultra-woke insanity, hyper-tolerance, and an utterly unwarranted belief in globalism.

I could just as well have edited the previous sentence to read, The West is hell-bent.



Image: Pexels.
After campaigning for Senator in California as someone who was about more than just impeaching President Trump, it turns out that Adam Schiff really is all about ... impeaching Trump.

Joel Pollak at Breitbart took a gander at his tweets:

I went to @SenAdamSchiff's feed on @X to see if he had said anything about Trump's tariffs on Hollywood production abroad (a big issue for his constituents). All he talks about is impeaching Trump and stopping his nominees. A partisan to the core. Oh, and nothing about the fires.  Joel Pollak (@joelpollak) May 6, 2025

Here's the state of his state:

Home to Adam Schiff, Nancy Pelosi, Gavin Newsom, Maxine Waters, Eric Swalwell, Kamala Harris and every other Democrat whos had power for decades in California.



Tents, trash, needles, and hopelessness.

All talk. No solutions. Just Democrat decay.



pic.twitter.com/TIPhCr91UL  Desiree (@DesireeAmerica4) May 5, 2025

It's a startling difference from what he was saying during his Senate campaign -- claiming "affordable housing," "lower drug costs" and "bringing good jobs back" -- as his agenda win votes.

He told the New York Times:

The stuff that my constituents want me to do to attack housing prices and food prices and gas prices and to restore reproductive freedom will be very hard to do if were not setting the agenda in the majority.

Actually, as Pollak found, he's all about Getting Trump. He's an operative for the Democrats' perpetuation of power and little else, and he still has the madman's gleam in his eye about taking out Trump. California is just a vehicle to him, given the seriousness of its problems, from wildfire cleanup, to tariffs, to bums ruling the streets. He doesn't seem to know about any of that, let alone show much of any interest in doing anything for his state.

Maybe that's because he doesn't live in that state:

Complaint Filed against Adam Schiff For Allegedly Committing Fraud and Perjury By Listing Two Homes As His 'Primary Residence'#california

Investigators Christine Bash and John Stubbins filed an ethics complaint alleging that Adam Schiff committed fraud and perjury by listing pic.twitter.com/X3AjwhWrgP  Mike Netter (@nettermike) May 5, 2025

And here it is,



Bank Records, voter registration records and a WHISTLEBLOWER CONFIRMS BEYOND THE SHADOW OF A DOUBT,



Adam Schiff is guilty of perjury, voter fraud and mortgage fraud violating both state and federal law.



This complaint has been submitted to multiple U.S. pic.twitter.com/yVVXKTYpS1  RealRobert (@Real_RobN) May 2, 2025

 Records show Adam Schiff financed 1.7 million Maryland home as principal residence



California Rep. Adam Schiff is facing explosive allegations of mortgage fraud, voter fraud, and election misconduct  spanning nearly 20 years.

A bombshell report by Chris Bish & Darren Ellis pic.twitter.com/yZmvagAOoi  JOSH DUNLAP (@JDunlap1974) May 3, 2025

Oh look



Now it makes sense why @SenAdamSchiff opposes @USAEdMartin



Schifty Schiff committed mortgage fraud in MD &@EagleEdMartins press sec, @NeilWMcCabe broke the story in 2023



Sounds like he might have committed other crimes too



Buckle upjustice is coming pic.twitter.com/8vCsvfIRps  Amy Kremer (@AmyKremer) May 2, 2025

 SEN. SCHIFF "IN DEEP TROUBLE" OVER UKRAINE CONNECTIONS



Eric Ciaramella, the whistleblower tied to Trumps 2019 impeachment, is back in the spotlight over Adam Schiffs Ukraine connections.



Former diplomat Andrei Telashchenko says he was in the room when Ciaramella met with https://t.co/DAQ1ehLfpK pic.twitter.com/a0E0s6yBun  Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) March 4, 2025

He's so pencil-neck-deep in the politics of Trump, fighting a rearguard war, and getting caught with his fingers in the till, he does literally nothing for his state, not even bothering to live in it. He's the ultimate do-nothing senator. What he's doing there is nothing productive, other than for himself.

Image: Frypie, via Wikimedia Commons // CC BY-SA 4.0 Deed


A panoramic view of Black River in the fictional territory of Poyais. Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons

In the early 19th century, a Scottish soldier named Gregor MacGregor pulled off one of the most audacious frauds in history. Styling himself the Cazique or prince of a fictional Central American nation, MacGregor seized upon the eras feverish interest in colonial opportunity and foreign investment by convincing hundreds of people to invest in and even emigrate to a country that did not exist. His elaborate web of forged documents, fabricated maps, and persuasive lies led to the financial ruin of thousands and the death of over a hundred would-be settlers.

MacGregor was born in Stirlingshire, Scotland, in 1786, into a family with a storied and turbulent legacy. His grandfather, a celebrated clansman known as Gregor the Beautiful, had served with distinction in the British Army and played a crucial role in restoring the fortunes of Clan Gregorone of the oldest and most fabled Highland clans with a lineage that traces its ancestry back to the ancient Celtic royal house of Alpin, making the clan claim descent from early Scottish kings. Yet despite this noble heritage, the clan endured centuries of persecution. From the 16th century onward, they were outlawed by the Scottish crown, and the name MacGregor was officially banned.

It was Gregors grandfather who helped rehabilitate the clans status, successfully petitioning for the legal restoration of the MacGregor name in the 18th century. This legacy of ancestral pride, royal pretensions, and defiance in the face of suppression likely shaped Gregor MacGregors self-imagefuelling the ambition that would later drive him to proclaim himself a prince and fabricate an entire nation.

MacGregor joined the British Army in 1803, at the age of 16, by purchasing a commission as an ensign in the 57th Regiment of Foota common practice at the time for those from wealthier families. He rose to lieutenant less than a year later, and then to captain by 1805, though his promotions were due more to money and connections than to battlefield distinction.

He served briefly during the Peninsular War, but accounts of his role are limited, and he resigned his commission under unclear circumstances in 1810. In 1811, MacGregor sailed to South America to join the revolutionary movements fighting against Spanish colonial rule. He arrived in Venezuela, where the fight for independence was just beginning. He soon offered his services to Simon Bolivar, the famed liberator of much of Latin America.



A painting of Gregor MacGregor while he was in the British Army. Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons

MacGregor styled himself as a seasoned officer and was welcomed into the ranks of the Venezuelan forces. He quickly climbed the ranks, likely aided by his British military background and his talent for self-promotion. His most notable exploits included raids against Spanish positions in Venezuela and New Granada, his involvement in a failed amphibious assault on the Spanish stronghold of Portobelo in Panama, and the brief seize of Amelia Island off the coast of Florida.

Despite mixed success, MacGregor was celebrated by some as a romantic revolutionary hero. He adopted grand titles such as General-in-Chief of the Armies of the Republics of Venezuela and New Granada, often with little official sanction.

While MacGregor undeniably saw real combat, his reputation was inflated through exaggeration and self-publicity. He was known for wearing flamboyant uniforms and issuing proclamations that outstripped his actual achievements. His military leadership was questioned by contemporaries, and many of his campaigns ended in failure or retreat.

By the early 1820s, his reputation in South America had cooled, and he returned to Britain. There, he parlayed his supposed status as a victorious general and freedom fighter into the next phase of his lifethe invention of Poyais.

The Poyais Scam

In 1820, MacGregor travelled to Honduras in Central America where he espied a tract of land called the Mosquito Coast along the eastern coast of present-day Nicaragua and Honduras. This area was loosely controlled by the Miskito people, an indigenous group that had long maintained a semi-independent status. The region had also been the focus of British colonial interest for centuries, often as a buffer zone against Spanish influence, though Britain had formally withdrawn from most of it by the early 19th century.

While in the region, MacGregor met with George Frederic Augustus I, the self-styled "King of the Mosquito Nation." This Miskito leader had limited actual power but maintained symbolic influence, and had a history of dealings with Europeans.



The supposed location of Poyais.

MacGregor convinced George Frederic Augustus to grant him a large tract of landapproximately 12,500 square miles. There is no solid evidence that any such land grant was ever made, and if it was, it almost certainly held no legal weight in Britain or in international law. What MacGregor did have, however, was a deep understanding of how to dress a lie in plausible clothing. MacGregor painted Poyais as a promised landrich in resources, governed by enlightened laws, and populated by a civilized, friendly native population eager to welcome European settlers. MacGregor mounted an aggressive sales campaign. He gave interviews in the national newspapers, engaged publicists to write advertisements and leaflets, and had Poyais-related ballads composed and sung on the streets of London, Edinburgh and Glasgow. To make the fantasy more convincing, he published a promotional book, Sketch of the Mosquito Shore, Including the Territory of Poyais, supposedly written by a neutral observer.

The Sketch described the Poyaisian climate as remarkably healthy ... agree[ing] admirably with the constitution of Europeans. The soil was so fertile that a farmer could have three maize harvests a year, or grow cash crops such as sugar or tobacco without hardship. Fish and game were so plentiful that a man could hunt or fish for a single day and bring back enough to feed his family for a week. The book described a well-established capital, St. Joseph, a flourishing seaside town of wide paved boulevards, colonnaded buildings and mansions. St Joseph had a theatre, an opera house, a domed cathedral, a parliament and a royal palace. The book went so far as to claim the rivers of Poyais contained "globules of pure gold".



A rare copy of the book Sketch of the Mosquito Shore, Including the Territory of Poyais that survive to this day. Photo credit: crouchrarebooks.com

MacGregor began selling land grants at two shillings and threepence per acre, roughly equivalent to a working man's daily wage at the time, which were perceived by many as an attractive investment opportunity. Demand for the certificates was so high that even when MacGregor raised the price to four shillings per acre, it had no diminishing effect on sales. More than five hundred people bought Poyaisian land, many of who had invested their life savings. Along with land certificates, MacGregor issued Poyaisian government bonds worth 200,000a fortune at the time.

To ensure the sale of these bonds and land certificates and to assure potential investors that the country was real, and that it was being developed, MacGregor arranged for emigration. For settlers, MacGregor deliberately targeted his fellow Scots, assuming that they would be more likely to trust him, as a Scotsman himself. MacGregor told his would-be colonists that he wished to see Poyais populated with Scots as they possessed the necessary hardiness and character to develop the new country. Skilled tradesmen and artisans were promised free passage to Poyais, supplies, and lucrative government contracts. Hundreds, mostly Scots, signed up to emigrateenough to fill seven ships. They included bankers, doctors, civil servants, young men whose families had bought them commissions in the Poyaisian Army and Navy, and an Edinburgh cobbler who accepted the post of Official Shoemaker to the Princess of Poyais.

In 1822 and 1823, two shipsthe Honduras Packet and the Kennersley Castleset sail for Poyais with around 250 settlers aboard. What they found when they arrived was not a thriving colony, but uninhabited, mosquito-infested jungle. There was no infrastructure, no government, and no sign of any settlement whatsoever. Stranded in a foreign land with no resources, the colonists quickly succumbed to disease, starvation, and exposure. James Hastie, a Scottish sawyer who had brought his wife and three children with him, later wrote: "It seemed to be the will of Providence that every circumstance should combine for our destruction." Another settler, the would-be royal shoemaker, who had left a family in Edinburgh, shot himself. By the time the survivors were rescued and taken to British Honduras (modern Belize), over 180 had died. Fewer than 50 ever returned to Britain.



A Bank of Poyais note.

Back in Britain, word of the disaster spread. Investigations revealed that Poyais was a complete fabrication. MacGregor, sensing the storm coming, fled to France, whereastonishinglyhe attempted to launch the scam all over again. French government officials became suspicious when people began requesting passports to travel to a country they had never heard about. Investors also began to question the legitimacy of the Poyais certificates and the lack of corroborating evidence. In 1825, MacGregor was arrested in Paris, along with several of his associates, on charges of fraud and misrepresentation.

MacGregors trial took place in 1826 and quickly attracted attention. The evidence against himfabricated bonds, fake documents, and mapswas extensive, but MacGregor mounted a shrewd defence. He claimed he had been acting in good faith on the basis of a legitimate land grant from the Miskito king. He insisted that the failure of the Poyais colony was due to unfortunate circumstances, not deception, and that he had merely tried to build a new nation with genuine intentions.

To the surprise of many, the court acquitted MacGregor, citing a lack of concrete proof of criminal intent. While it was clear he had misled people, the legal system at the time required a more direct demonstration of deliberate fraud than prosecutors could provide. His accomplices were also released.

Though acquitted, MacGregor's reputation in France was tainted, and his ability to continue the scam was severely diminished. He eventually returned to London and made a few further feeble attempts to revive the Poyais project, but with little success. By the 1830s, the scheme had lost its momentum, and MacGregor faded from public view.

In 1839, he moved to Venezuela, where his military service during the independence wars was still respected. There, in a twist of fate, he received a pension as a national hero and lived comfortably until his death in 1845.

The Poyais scheme was remarkable not only for its scale but for the depth of deception. MacGregor constructed an entire national identitycomplete with a currency, a flag, and a fictitious populationand fooled both ordinary citizens and the financial elite.

His actions led to financial ruin for thousands and the deaths of over a hundred people, making it one of the most tragic frauds of the 19th century. The fallout also contributed to the collapse of investor confidence in foreign schemes and fed into the broader panic that culminated in the 1825 stock market crash.
The Motorola Razr Plus 2025 takes what was good about the 2024 model and amps it up with some fresh new colors and some more powerful specs. This is the mid-range model of the new 2025 Razr lineup that just went up for pre-order, and if youre looking to save a little money without making too many compromises, this is the 2025 Razr model you want to go with.

The 2025 Motorola Razr Plus comes with 256GB of storage, and its powered by Qualcomms Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset. While its not quite as powerful as the Snapdragon 8 Elite, its still nearly as good as the 2024 flagship chipset from Qualcomm and is an extremely powerful chipset all in its own right.

It comes with less RAM than the Ultra model at 12GB, and it has a smaller 4,000mAh capacity battery. The battery also charges at a maximum of 45W as opposed to 68W. So you do make some concessions here by going with the Plus model. However, a lot of other stuff is the same, including the screen size and the inclusion of Moto AI for that additional assistance.

Just like the 2025 Razr Ultra, the 2025 Razr Plus is unlocked and will work with all major US carriers. That means it doesnt matter if you have T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon, or any of the MVNOs like Metro, Mint Mobile, or even Google Fi.

The Razr Plus 2025 comes in three colors. These include Pantone Mocha Mousse, Pantone Midnight Blue, and Pantone Hot Pink. Having said that, only the Mocha Mousse seems to be available at the moment. All of that aside, if youre wondering how you can pick up the Motorola Razr Plus 2025 for less money, weve got you covered.

Amazon Amazon isnt offering a discount on the Razr Plus 2025, but it is selling the device via pre-order and you can pick it up in the Pantone Mocha Mousse color. While not the best price option, you do have Amazons quick delivery times, and the 30-day refund/replacement policy. Buy at Amazon
Googles head of search, Elizabeth Reid, is not pleased with the DOJs proposed changes. She believes that if the court goes through with the DOJs remedy suggestions, consumers search privacy could be in jeopardy, not to mention that it will slow down innovation.

This was said during Googles remedies trial following its loss in court. Were talking about the Search case that Google lost, not the one related to its ad dominance, thats something else entirely.

Google Search chief believes the DOJs remedy proposals are a huge mistake

Elizabeth Reid took the stand during the final week of the remedies trial. She said that these changes would deeply undermine user trust. Why did she say that? Well, the DOJ proposed a major breakup of Google, essentially. The government is requesting the divestiture of Googles Chrome browser in addition to the release of Googles search data and search index in order to help rival search engines.

Googles head of search warned that publishing such data would risk harming users trust. Once its turned over to a qualified competitor, theres no further protections we can give, she said. She also added that a startup is generally not a target because its small, but now it has this huge treasure trove of data.

She warned that such moves would undermine other Google products, and user trust

Reid warned that such a move would probably undermine other Google products. She believes that users would lose trust in other Google products because of it, and search overall, actually.

Reid also agreed with Googles CEO, who took the stand last week. She said that bad actors could reverse-engineer Googles systems if data-sharing proposals come to be, and that would make it easier to get spam and misinformation in search results.

The DOJ countered those comments. The government said that the likelihood of its data-sharing proposals causing problems for search users are minimal. The DOJ noted that Google began sharing its search-related technology with Yahoo Japan in 2010 and had no issues.

Reid warned that Google would have to dedicate a lot of its search workforce towards compliance

Elizabeth Reid also highlighted that the governments proposals would harm Googles ability to innovate. She added that more than 20% of the search engineering workforce would have to focus on compliance if these proposals come to pass, because its so extensive and invasive.

Google already announced that it will appeal the ruling, regardless of what it is. We knew that following the initial trial that took place last year. The company even proposed counter-remedies to what the DOJ requested. Judge Mehta doesnt have an easy job here, as Googles monopoly needs to be tackled, but it needs to be tackled properly, with the right balance.
There is good news for Galaxy users. Samsung has begun deploying its security update for May 2025. As usual, this software update arrives to fix a large number of security flaws and keep our devices protected.

While Samsung doesnt typically offer specific details about each vulnerability it addresses (a precautionary measure to prevent cybercriminals from exploiting them), it has revealed some highlights of what this latest security package includes.

Firstly, this patch integrates a series of important fixes for the Android OS. This month, Google has also updated the anti-rollback threshold. This means that users cant revert to an older software version. The company took this action after discovering an actively exploited vulnerability in previous updates.

In addition to the fixes provided by Google, Samsung Semiconductor has included a couple of solutions for vulnerabilities that directly affected the proprietary hardware of Galaxy devices. But thats not all. The May 2025 security patch for Samsung products also brings up to 20 fixes for security holes that had been found in its own software (One UI skin and Samsungs apps/services).

Although the specific details of these vulnerabilities are kept secret for security reasons, Samsung has offered some examples. One of them allowed unauthorized access to the SmartManagerCN application. Its notable that this one applies only to devices in China. Another vulnerability put confidential information at risk within the Enriched Call feature.

Several vulnerabilities were reported to Samsung by researchers

These vulnerabilities were reported to the company privately by security researchers. Samsung has a rewards program for those who discover flaws in their devices, offering up to one million dollars for the most severe errors. In this way, the firm tries to keep its products as secure as possible.

Currently, only the Galaxy S25 series has received the security patch. Samsung is likely to expand its availability to more eligible models in the coming days.
It looks like Samsung is steadily moving towards the launch of their highly anticipated Galaxy Watch 8 series. Weve been hearing whispers about the standard Galaxy Watch 8 and the return of the Classic model, and now we have some solid evidence that the release might be just around the corner thanks to the FCC.

Xpertpick spotted the LTE variant of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 in the FCC listings. This certification usually means the new products launch is a few weeks away. The Federal Communications Commission is usually one of the final hurdles they need to clear before it hits stores.

FCC certifies the Galaxy Watch 8 LTE

The FCC has given its stamp of approval to two new Samsung smartwatches bearing the model numbers SM-L335F and SM-L335U. Previous leaks have suggested that these model numbers correspond to the standard (non-Classic) Galaxy Watch 8. The FCC listing itself confirms that these versions will indeed support LTE connectivity.

But thats not all the connectivity goodness the Galaxy Watch 8 will offer. The documents also reveal support for a wide range of other options, including Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/a. You will also find Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless pairing, GNSS for accurate location tracking, and NFC for contactless payments.

Interestingly, the Galaxy Watch 8 will also come equipped with both Wi-Fi hotspot and Wi-Fi Direct features. This is a neat addition, potentially allowing you to create a Wi-Fi network on the go or easily transfer files directly from your watch. The watch will also support 10W wired charging as well as wireless charging capabilities.

It could arrive in July

If Samsung follows its usual pattern, the Galaxy Watch 8 series is likely to make its grand debut at its second Unpacked event of 2025, which could take place in July. Samsung could also launch the Galaxy Z Flip 7, Galaxy Z Fold 7, and possibly the affordable Galaxy Z Flip FE.

With this FCC certification in the bag, the official launch of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 series seems closer than ever. Smartwatch enthusiasts have a lot to look forward to, with enhanced connectivity and some interesting features on the horizon.
Samsung has a plethora of high-profile audio brands under its belt these days, and it seems the company might be adding a few more to its repertoire with the buyout of Bowers & Wilkins. Bowers & Wilkins, which is under the parent company Masimo Corporation, specializes in high-end audio equipment and makes a range of different audio products, such as loudspeakers and headphones.

The company also has a motto that says the pursuit of perfection never stops, and it firmly believes that good enough is not enough. Those two beliefs are something that Bowers & Wilkins has held steadfast to for several decades. Theyre also two driving factors that have pushed the company to the peak of audio excellence. Its no wonder that Samsung wants to acquire them. Bowers & Wilkins is reportedly not the only audio brand that Samsung wants to buy, however. At least according to the rumor.

Samsung to acquire Bowers & Wilkins alongside other Masimo Corp. audio brands

According to a recent report from Korean news site The JoonAng, Samsung is looking to buy a few different audio brands from Masimo Corporation. Bowers & Wilkins is only one of those brands, though it might just be the most prestigious one.

Its worth noting that the original report from The JoongAng has already been pulled. So there isnt any information on what other brands may be part of the acquisition. However, as SamMobile points out, Masimos audio brands include several well-known companies, such as Denon, Definitive Technology, HEOS, Boston Acoustics, and Polk Audio. Its entirely possible that Samsungs acquisition may include some or all of these.

The acquisition is through Harman International

Samsung itself is reportedly not buying these companies, but rather, its doing so through its Harman subsidiary. Harman is another well-known audio brand that Samsung purchased several years ago. Since then, its added Harman audio to several of its products, including headphones, soundbars, and more.

If the acquisition is happening, its still not clear when it will finalize. Though that may be information given up if theres an official announcement made soon. Its also unclear where Samsung and Harman may choose to incorporate audio technology from these brands. Both companies make quite a few different products in the audio space. So, perhaps we could end up seeing future Samsung phones utilizing audio from Bowers & Wilkins and some of those other brands down the line.
The design of the Sony WH-1000XM6 is sure to be a highly anticipated part of the new headphones, perhaps more so than the cost and any potential new features. Sonys WH-1000 series of headphones has always been towards the top or at the top of the heap when it comes to wireless headphones. A big reason for this is the high-quality active noise cancellation. It oftentimes surpassed anything else on the market.

Another fan-favorite design trait of these headphones was their folding design. This allowed users to pack them more easily for travel. Unfortunately, Sony removed this feature from the most recently available pair, the WH-1000XM5. That might be changing with the launch of the WH-1000XM6, as several design details were leaked recently via a product listing on Amazon Spain.

The Sony WH-1000XM6 will return to a folding design

Its worth noting that this hasnt been confirmed by Sony. Having said that, a listing for the headphones on the Amazon Spain website mentions several details about the WH-1000XM5 successor, and one of the design details is that the headphones fold up. Those who are familiar with the XM4 and XM3 models will remember that the earcups not only swiveled to lay flat, but they also folded inward. Again, this was to make them more compact for storage during travel or commutes.

It was such a beloved feature that it was kind of a shock to see Sony take it away with the XM5 model. But it looks like Sony is bringing it back. As mentioned by The Walkman Blog, the Amazon listing (which has now been pulled) details several features. A foldable design is one of those features.

Its also said that the WH-1000XM6 will use Sonys new QN3 chip for HD noise cancellation processing. The headphones also feature 12 precision microphones to really boost the ANC capabilities. Interesting, Sony also appears to have improved the case. While there arent any images of it, its described as having a new magnetic closure for easier, quicker access. Additionally, they weigh about 250g and have up to 30 hours of battery life. Meanwhile, a 3-minute charge gives you about 3 hours of audio playback.

They could end up costing at least $400

Since this leak comes from Amazon Spain, official US pricing is bound to be a tad different. However, we can venture a guess based on the exchange rate. The Amazon Spain listing stated that these cost about 388.43. Thats $439.26 in USD. Now, it seems unlikely that Sony would charge more than $400 for the XM5 predecessor, which launched at $399. However, the XM4 model did launch at $349.99, so its not impossible. In fact, Dealabs says that the price in the US will be $450. So they might actually end up being more expensive for US consumers.

Its also looking like these headphones are going to be launching on May 15, at least in Spain and perhaps other parts of Europe. Again, the original listing on Amazon Spain has been pulled already. So, theres a small chance the date could be an error. Its also entirely possible that the date is correct and the listing was just pushed early by accident. These were officially certified at the FCC back in January. Either way, Sonys new WH-1000XM6 headphones look to be launching next week.
The Sony Xperia 1 VII will be coming to global markets, but it will be a bit late. According to a new report from Japan, the Xperia 1 VII will be announced on May 15. The launch event will take place in Japan, Sonys homeland. Well, that report is not exactly all that accurate, as Sony just confirmed the Xperia 1 VII launch date.

The Sony Xperia 1 VII is coming in May, but only if you live in Japan

As a reminder, the Xperia 1 VI also launched on May 15, but last year. Despite the fact this report said that it will launch exactly a year later, thats not true. How do we know that? Well, Sony just announced the launch date for its upcoming flagship, and its May 13. Whats interesting is that it was announced via the global Sony Xperia YouTube channel, but Japan Time is mentioned in there. Yes, chances are that this report was at least somewhat accurate.

The companys press event will kick off at 11 AM Japan time on May 13, which translates to 4 AM CET. Its obvious that this launch event is aimed at Japan.

Those of you who live outside of Japan, well, you may have to wait in order to get the device. Based on the report, the global launch of the phone will take place in July. So, around two months after the initial launch. Thats not something Sony confirmed just yet, though.

These delayed global launches are never nice to see. It is to be expected in this case, however. Sonys flagships are usually always late to arrive to global markets. Lets just hope that it will become available soon after its global launch in July.

This phone resembles its predecessors a lot

The Sony Xperia 1 VII looks very similar to its predecessor. Weve already seen its design thanks to CAD-based renders. Needless to say, the design is minimalistic, as it was in the past. Sony still didnt opt to completely redesign its smartphones. The company has been using this design for a long time.

With that being said, the Xperia 1 VII did pop up on Geekbench recently. That listing revealed that the Snapdragon 8 Elite will fuel the device. On top of that, Sony will offer 12GB of RAM on the inside, the same as in last years model.

Android 15 is expected to come pre-installed on the device, though its possible Android 16 will arrive soon after the global launch, as Android 16 is expected to drop by the end of June. The phones display is tipped to measure 6.5 inches diagonally.
A new Halloween-themed Shaun The Sheep film is in the works.

Animation powerhouse Aardman, which also creates the Wallace And Gromit films, has partnered with Sky and production company StudioCanal for the movie  Shaun The Sheep: The Beast Of Mossy Bottom.

The animated sheep first appeared on screens 30 years ago in Bafta and Oscar-winning film Wallace And Gromit: A Close Shave.

In 2007 the character got his own childrens programme on CBBC, which has become one of Aardmans best-performing properties.

Shaun The Sheep is one of Aardmans best-loved characters (Yui Mok/PA)

The new film sees the residents of Mossy Bottom Farm looking forward to Halloween until the farmer trashes the flocks beloved pumpkin patch.

Shaun tries to fix the problem but things soon spiral out of control and the farmer goes missing while a wild beast roams the woods of Mossingham.

This will be the third stop-motion animated feature film about Shaun The Sheep after 2015s Shaun The Sheep Movie and 2019s A Shaun The Sheep Movie: Farmageddon.

In 2021, Aardman released a 30-minute special, the International Emmy-winning Shaun The Sheep: The Flight Before Christmas.

Andrew Orr, executive producer and head of originals for Sky Cinema, said: Shaun is a household name, so its huge news for us to be welcoming him and the flock to our 2026 Sky Original film slate.

Its an honour to work with Aardman at such an exciting time for the studio, with a film that we know fans of all ages will love. Expect laughs, spookiness and some brilliantly entertaining new characters.

Breaking ewes: A new #ShaunTheSheepMovie is in production!  The Beast of Mossy Bottom sees Shaun turn mad scientist and a mysterious and very hairy beast let loose around Mossingham In partnership with @skytv and STUDIOCANAL, and directed by Steve Cox and Matthew Walker, pic.twitter.com/Lj2vn09DmB  Aardman (@aardman) May 7, 2025

Sarah Cox, chief creative director at Aardman, said: Shaun The Sheep is an iconic character, beloved by viewers of all ages around the world.

In our new animated movie, we bring family-friendly thrills to this light-hearted, spooky Halloween adventure.

Expect smashed pumpkins, wayward science, and a wild hairy beast on the loose in Mossy Bottom  all delivered with the Flocks trademark joyous comedy.

Earlier in the year, the team behind Wallace And Gromit took home Bafta awards for best animation and best children and family film for their latest movie about the inventor and his loyal beagle  Vengeance Most Fowl.

Further details about the Sky Original feature film, written by Mark Burton and Giles Pilbrow, will be released in due course.

Sky is confirmed as exclusive UK distributor, releasing in cinemas and on Sky Cinema, alongside StudioCanal as global partner outside the UK.
Max Chandler-Mather described parliament as a sick place Photograph: Jason OBrien/AAP

Anthony Albanese has labelled Max Chandler-Mather a hypocrite who should look in the mirror after the former Greens MP described workplace culture in parliament as bloody awful.

The prime minister, who clashed with Chandler-Mather on a number of occasions during question time, said the 33-year-old who lost his Brisbane seat on Saturday needed a mirror and a reflection on why hes no longer in parliament.

This is a guy who stood before signs at a CFMEU rally in Brisbane describing me as a Nazi, Albanese told ABCs 7.30 on Wednesday.

Chandler-Mather described parliament as a sick place on Tuesday as he recalled the yelling and screaming that took place at times while he delivered speeches.

Albanese countered Chandler-Mather should have a look at the way that he conducted himself in question time  some of which the prime minister said he took offence to.

So I think its a bit rich for him, of all people, who has been rejected by his own electorate after just one term.

The Greens have been reduced to just one lower house seat with the partys leader, Adam Bandt, projected to lose his inner-city Melbourne seat in a shock defeat that will see Labor take the reins for the first time since 2010.

The long-serving Greens MP trails on more than 4,000 votes behind Labors Sarah Witty and is unlikely to catch up with the dwindling preferences remaining, ABCs election analyst, Antony Green, said on Wednesday afternoon.

Bandts loss will send shockwaves through the federal Greens party, which will now have to decide who should lead the party to the 2028 federal election.

With almost 70% of the votes counted as of 4pm Wednesday, Witty led Bandt 52.7% to 47.3% on two-candidate preferred count.

The result means the Greens are likely to only hold one seat in the lower house  Elizabeth Watson-Brown in Brisbanes Ryan  losing three seats since the 2022 federal election.

Staffers and party members remained hopeful even when the tables turned on the Greens leaders margin as postal and declaration votes were counted.

A Greens spokesperson said the the party would not concede Melbourne while counting was still under way.

While there are many, many thousands of votes to be counted we are not conceding Melbourne. While we are ahead on primary votes, there is a chance that One Nation and Liberal preferences will elect the Labor candidate. The count needs to proceed, they said.

Bandt supporters are hopeful the thousands of yet-to-be counted absentee and declaration votes will flow their way despite the historic trend favouring Liberal candidates.

Greens MPs and senators were reluctant to talk about a future leader in the event Bandt lost his seat.

Bandt had held the seat of Melbourne since 2010, winning four consecutive federal elections.

Bandt had achieved a high-water mark primary vote at the 2022 federal election on 49.6%, increasing his popularity from 2019 by 0.3 percentage points.

The NSW Greens senator Mehreen Faruqi said she was still holding on to hope that the remaining ballots would fall Bandts way when asked who would lead the party.

We cant declare a position until vote is counted and I have everything crossed and hope that Adam gets across the line, Faruqi told ABCs Afternoon Briefing.

We keep a close eye at the results of Melbourne; Ryan and Wills are still being counted. Well cross those bridges when we have final result.

Related: Greens on track to lose several MPs as independents hold off challenges and gain votes in federal election

Faruqi and South Australian senator Sarah Hanson-Young are considered potential frontrunners as the next Greens party leader.

The partys strong stance on Gaza and criticism of Labor had galvanised politicians in Canberra. The major parties had both criticised the Greens for describing Israels occupation in Gaza as a genocide and urging the Albanese government to apply more pressure on Israel.

Faruqi said the Greens would maintain its principled stance, adding its vote increased in seats with high migrant populations.

[Multi-cultural communities] really backed us. They are the communities who were so marginalised and again what we have seen is the people of Australia have rejected the most pro-Israel party and they have kicked Peter Dutton out of parliament, she said.

The Nationals leader, David Littleproud, appeared to welcome the Greens loss in Melbourne, claiming the party had politically weaponised the conflict in Gaza.

I think its a reflection [that] the electorate has seen through the Greens, that they are not these cute and cuddly tree-hugging Greens we are used to, he told ABC.

Alex Ryvchin, the co-chief executive of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, said Bandts loss was a good thing.
Gerry Adams said he had been legally advised he would not get any sort of a fair hearing by challenging several claims that he had been a member of the IRA in court, during a libel trial against the BBC.

The 76-year-old said he is suing the BBC over allegations in a broadcast which sets aside the huge work that was done by him on the peace process and to persuade the IRA to leave the stage.

The former Sinn Fein leader said he was irritated by allegations he had been a member of the IRA Army Council but that he had previously been advised not to pursue such claims.

However, he said he was suing the BBC over a 2016 broadcast because it had contained a grievous smear that he takes seriously.

Mr Adams gave evidence for a sixth day as part of his defamation case against the BBC at the High Court in Dublin.

He claims a BBC Spotlight programme, and an accompanying online story, defamed him by alleging he sanctioned the killing of the former Sinn Fein official Denis Donaldson.

Mr Donaldson, who had worked for Sinn Fein, was shot dead in Donegal in 2006, months after admitting his role as a police and MI5 agent for 20 years.

Mr Adams denies any involvement.

In 2009, the Real IRA admitted killing Mr Donaldson.

The Spotlight programme was broadcast in September 2016.

The trial opened last week with barrister for Mr Adams, Tom Hogan SC, saying the former Sinn Fein presidents reputation as a peacemaker had suffered an unjustified attack because of the broadcast of the BBC programme.

On Wednesday, Mr Adams continued taking questions from the barrister for the BBC, Paul Gallagher SC.

In front of the jury, Mr Gallagher read extracts from books and a series of newspaper articles which featured politicians including former taoisigh Bertie Ahern and Enda Kenny, as well as SDLP founder John Hume and ex-UUP leader David Trimble, expressing surprise that Mr Adams was not acknowledging he was a member of the IRA.

Mr Adams said he did tens of thousands of interviews and could not recall every single one.

He repeatedly said it was not for him to comment on the journalistic content of the extracts, also noting that it was open for Mr Gallagher to call Mr Ahern to explain his comments to the court.

The former Sinn Fein leader was also questioned on matters relating to a number of issues, including the partys move to end abstentionism from the Oireachtas, Stormontgate and the killing of prison officer Brian Stack.

On the subject of ending abstentionism, Mr Adams said he had never purported to speak for the IRA ever.

He said whatever the IRA was going to do on that topic, he and others had come to the considered position that it was the right policy.

Asked by judge Alexander Owens if all members of the IRA would be members of Sinn Fein, Mr Adams said it was not the case and that not all members of Sinn Fein would necessarily support the IRA.

While stating he was not able to specifically remember individual articles that were raised by Mr Gallagher, Mr Adams acknowledged that claims about him being a member of the Army Council of the IRA had been raised in public.

He said he was doing this to save the court time as Mr Gallagher was repeating questions time and time and time again.

He further accused Mr Gallagher of trying to persuade the jury that he did not have a reputation or that his reputation was useless.

He said the BBCs lawyer was engaging in a smothering saturation of the jury with obscure quotes dating back 30-40 years.

Mr Adams said he brought allegations to his legal team as a matter of routine and added that he had repeatedly received legal advice that he would not get any sort of a fair hearing to challenge various claims made about him in the press.

However, he said he had taken action on a number of occasions by writing to editors or the Press Council which had resulted in retractions or apologies.

In the case of the action against the BBC, he added: That shows how seriously I take this allegation in the Spotlight programme, that I am suing.

He said he had sued against what he considers to be an issue that sets aside the huge work that was done by him and others on the peace process.

He said the import of the programme was that his work to end the campaign of violence was a scam and that the IRA Army Council had authorised the killing of Mr Donaldson and asked Mr Adams for permission.

He said he considered this to be a lie and grievous smear which could have no other impact on the peace process but to undermine what was achieved.

Mr Adams repeatedly said the issues being raised in the court were more of the same and had not mentioned the allegation in the Spotlight programme which was at issue in the case.

Gerry Adams denied any involvement in the death of Denis Donaldson (Paul Faith/PA)

He said his solicitor had made a strenuous effort to get the BBC to deal with the matter outside of the courts, noting it was licence-fee payers for the broadcaster that were paying for Mr Gallaghers services.

Asked if he was appalled by allegations that he was involved in the crimes of the IRA Army Council dating back decades, he said he would not use that word but would say he was irritated.

He said allegations about him were getting in the way of his engagements on the peace process.

When Mr Gallagher raised how many people had been killed by the IRA, Mr Adams said: Please dont lecture me on the number of people who have been killed, adding that he gave thanks that a peace process had been put together to stop that.

Mr Adams legal representatives objected to the line of questioning on the series of newspapers articles to say that Mr Gallagher was advancing the materials as to the truth of their content.

Judge Owens told the jury that all of this guff is not evidence as to whether or not Mr Adams was a member of the IRA, and were simply to be taken that the assertions were in the public domain.

Mr Adams further said the media had demonised Sinn Fein.

He said he did not want to be egotistical as he considered himself to be as flawed as anybody else in the room, adding: I dont go around trumpeting my achievements.

However, he said he had  with others  achieved a peace process and built Sinn Fein to the largest party on the island.

Mr Adams said he acknowledged there were various allegations and assertions about his alleged involvement with the IRA and its crimes across various forms of media, including books, television and newspaper, spanning a period of decades.

However, he said he never acknowledged their accuracy nor correctness  adding: In fact, I deny them.

He added: There are of course some folk who want to fight the war all over again and set aside the progress that has been made  and that includes those who killed Denis Donaldson, and Im sure whoever it was who would like to see me dead as well.

Mr Adams was also asked about the Disney television series Say Nothing, based on the book of the same name by US journalist Patrick Radden Keefe.

The series is a dramatisation of several events of the Troubles, including the life of IRA activist Dolours Price and the murder of Jean McConville.

He said he had not seen the series nor read the book, adding: Lifes too short to watch Disney, especially when its dealing with serious issues.

He described the author as an opportunist and said he believed he had declined an opportunity to be interviewed by him.

He also said the work had been based on the discredited Boston Tapes project, which he said were created by two people to get at him.

On the involvement of IRA activist Brendan Hughes, he said Mr Hughes went on to be a supporter of a dissident republican group and had said he would shoot Mr Adams himself.

Asked about the Brighton bombing which involved an attempt on the life of Margaret Thatcher and other members of the Conservative Cabinet, Mr Adams stood by comments he had reportedly made in 1984 that the attack would have been a blow for democracy rather than a blow against democracy.

He told the court that it would be a blow for Irish democracy, against the connection with Britain.

He added: It would be far better, far, far better  and I say this at the age that Im at  if there had been no violence but it was what it was, despite efforts by me and many others that it went on and and on.

Mr Adams said the place that he came from had suffered under successive British prime ministers including Ms Thatcher.

He said: The war is done. Were all in a better place. We can say with certainty that the people of this island will get a referendum and the people of this island will get a chance to vote on the future.

He added that the likelihood of an event like the Brighton bombing happening again in any of our lifetimes has been prevented and avoided by the initiatives taken by me and others.

The trial continues.
Officials take part in a drill to train civilians in case of attack in Prayagraj, India - Rajesh Kumar Singh/AP

The line of control slices like a sword cut across the mountain ranges of Kashmir, the Himalayan territory bitterly disputed by India and Pakistan for almost 80 years. Time and again, the enemies have come to blows only for calm to be restored, often with American mediation.

Do not assume that the pattern must always repeat itself. The latest crisis was triggered by a heinous terrorist attack on a tourist camp inside Indian-administered Kashmir last month, claiming 26 civilian lives. India retaliated on Tuesday by striking nine targets in Pakistani-administered Kashmir and elsewhere in its neighbour.

As a spiral bloodshed threatens to take hold between two nuclear powers, who will mediate a resolution? We could once have assumed that America would step forward to lead a concerted effort to broker de-escalation. When India and Pakistan mobilised for war in 2002, Colin Powell, the late US secretary of state, engaged in shuttle diplomacy between New Delhi and Islamabad, joined by our then Foreign Secretary, Jack Straw.

Will anything like this happen now? Donald Trump scorns the idea of an American obligation to resolve distant crises, even between nuclear-armed states. Today his only comment was: I just hope it ends very quickly.

But it may not end just by itself. The leaders of India and Pakistan surely understand the potentially catastrophic consequences of further escalation. Having skirmished along the line of control for decades, they are adept at managing their rivalry, signalling resolve to domestic audiences while also offering subtly conciliatory messages to decision-makers on the other side.

Todays statement from the Indian defence ministry was a masterpiece of this genre, announcing focused strikes on terrorist infrastructure inside its neighbour, while also stressing that no Pakistani military facilities were hit, reflecting Indias calibrated and non-escalatory approach.

Today, Pakistans own retaliation seems both inevitable and imminent. If General Asim Munir, the Pakistani military chief, achieves a similar balance between robustness and restraint, this crisis could yet dissipate.

But General Munir may have no wish to de-escalate. His proclaimed doctrine, after all, is to return a heavier blow than any that Pakistan receives. He also leads a morally bankrupt military establishment which has for decades armed and hosted terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba, whose sole purpose is to attack India.

Whether Mr Trump wishes it or not, America is the only credible mediator in this crisis. The EU does not have the geopolitical weight. China, as Pakistans closest ally, is mistrusted by India. It was, in retrospect, an unfortunate coincidence that Sir Keir Starmer should have concluded a free trade agreement with India on Tuesday only hours before the latter fired missiles at Pakistan. In any case, Britain can only have a credible role if America takes the lead.

Marco Rubio, the US secretary of state, will be fully aware of the risks of an uncontrolled crisis between two enemies with over 300 nuclear warheads between them. Unless calm returns soon, he should ask his boss for permission to begin a new round of shuttle diplomacy.
A growing number of UK holidaymakers are concerned about anti-tourism protests in Spain, a travel boss has warned.

Steve Heapy, chief executive of airline and tour operator Jet2, said there is a perception among some people that overseas visitors are not welcome in the country.

Spanish residents in popular destinations have organised a number of demonstrations against tourism in recent years, with banners featuring messages such as tourists go home.

The impact of tourism on rental rates is a common theme at the protests.

Speaking at an event at the Spanish embassy in London, Mr Heapy said: Weve had people ringing the call centre and going into travel agents, asking questions like is Spain safe, are we still welcome in the resort.

He went on: It is becoming a big issue unfortunately, and perception becomes truth.

Mr Heapy said unlicensed tourism  such as people staying in private accommodation listed on Airbnb  is causing a huge problem and needs to be controlled.

Issues such as uncertainty over visitor numbers, unpaid tourist taxes and properties that could be death traps are among the issues, he said.

Unfortunately theres been a massive explosion in unlicensed tourism properties.

He went on: Airbnb can be controlled. They dont rule the world.

They are an online platform that we can control and put legislation in place.

Mr Heapy said if he was a politician he would introduce fines of a quarter of a million euros for Airbnb hosts found not to have the required licences or tax records.

Manuel Butler, director of the Spanish Tourist Office in London, insisted it is important to distinguish between specific local tensions and the broader national picture.

He went on: The vast majority of Spain remains enthusiastic in welcoming tourists.

Where protests have occurred  in cities such as Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca and Santa Cruz  concerns stem from broader societal issues: housing pressures, rising costs of living, and environmental strain in high-density areas.

He added: Spain is taking concrete steps to address these issues  through legislation on short-term rentals, tourism taxes in certain regions, and more comprehensive destination management.

Spain is the most popular overseas destination for people in the UK, with more than 18 million visits last year.

Spains Secretary of State for Tourism Rosario Sanchez Grau said: We are proud and grateful that Spain remains the number one holiday destination for UK visitors.

It is our priority to protect and nurture this relationship for the future.
Joe Biden is interviewed by the BBCs Nick Robinson

Does Joe Biden blame his vice-president for losing the 2024 election to Donald Trump? He certainly doesnt take any responsibility himself. And when it comes to Kamala Harris, he cant even bring himself to say her name.

Biden sat down with the BBCs Nick Robinson for his first full interview since leaving office. The 82-year-old ex-president was still able to speak pointedly about Americas foreign policy, warning of the dangers of appeasing Russia and abandoning Nato. But when Robinson asked Biden about dropping out of his re-election bid in mid-2024, he got tongue-tied.

Under fire now for starting a re-election campaign he couldnt complete, Biden contended that I meant what I said when I started in 2020 about heading a transition government where he would hand this to the next generation. So, why didnt he? And why didnt it work? Thats where Biden got increasingly incoherent.

Asked if he regrets not dropping out sooner to give someone else a bigger chance to beat Trump, he insisted that abandoning ship in mid-July was the right decision. I dont think it would have mattered if he had dropped out earlier, he claimed.

It was a hard decision, yet I think it was the right decision to go exactly then. Never mind that this happened only after Biden imploded in historic fashion on the debate stage, or that his partys elders then had to spend three weeks dragging him offstage against his will as his standing in the polls sagged.

We left at a time when we had a good candidate. She was fully funded.

Credit: BBC Radio 4 Today

Fully funded is not very high praise for your hand-picked vice-presidents attributes as a candidate. Its the one thing that the party apparatus can do for literally anybody it nominates.

Um, and what happened was 

This is the point in the answer where a normal person would say one of three things: blame Harris and her campaign for blowing it, take some responsibility for leaving her a mess to clean up, or argue that events beyond either of their control took over.

Biden chose none of the above. He just dropped the subject of Harris without even saying her name, abandoned any effort to explain what happened in the election, and lurched into a ramble about how it was hard to quit because he was just so successful:

Joe Biden cant even bring himself to say Kamala Harriss name - Kevin Lamarque/REUTERS

What we had set out to do, no one thought we could do and become so successful in our agenda it was hard to say, Now Im gonna stop now. Things moved so quickly that it made it difficult to walk away.

If Biden thinks the story of his presidency is that he was just too successful to quit, hes deluded. If he cant reflect at all on any of his failures, who does that leave to blame?

He clearly knows that he cant point the finger openly at Harris without accusing himself of bad judgment for hiring her. But for a guy who had pledged to be a transitional figure, his stubborn insistence on clinging to the top of the ticket sent a loud enough message at the time that he didnt trust Harris with his legacy.

Now, his insistence that things were just fine when she took over, coupled with his refusal to say anything more substantial in her favour than she was fully funded, speaks volumes in what is unsaid. When the Bidens have appeared in public with Harris, as they did at Jimmy Carters funeral, commentators have noted the apparent venom between Jill Biden and Harris.

For Joe, it seems easier to retreat into an imaginary world where he was undone by the magnitude of his own success. But even Joe Bidens fantasies arent extravagant enough to pretend that Kamala Harris did a good job running for president.

Dan McLaughlin is a senior writer at National Review.
Black smoke over sistine chapel

The conclave to elect the next pope will resume on Thursday after black smoke billowed from a chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday evening, indicating that no clear winner had emerged.

The inconclusive result was expected, given that for the past few centuries, no pope has been chosen after the first round of voting.

Thousands of Catholic faithful, people on holiday in Rome and the simply curious packed into St Peters Square, their gaze fixed on the slender chimney as black smoke poured out.

The 133 cardinals sequestered inside cast their first vote at the end of a day laden with pomp, ceremony and ancient rites, which came two weeks after the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88.

There was intense speculation as to why it took more than three hours for smoke to emerge.

One theory was that a 90-year-old cardinal who gave a meditation to the cardinals after the doors of the chapel were closed may have delivered a particularly long address.

The meditation was given by Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa. Once delivered, he left the chapel and the vote  which is restricted to cardinals under the age of 80  began.

But the real reason for the delay may never be known as cardinals are sworn to secrecy about what happens during the conclave, on pain of excommunication

Earlier in the day, the cardinals, wearing blood red cassocks and white mitres, attended a special Mass inside St Peters Basilica.

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the 91-year-old dean of the College of Cardinals, told the assembled princes of the church that the next pope must be someone up to the challenge of confronting global uncertainty and this difficult and complex turning point in history.

He told his peers that they must set aside every personal consideration in choosing the new pontiff and keep in mind only ... the good of the Church and of humanity.

Later, the cardinals gathered in the Pauline Chapel inside the Vatican for prayer and reflection, beseeching the Holy Spirit to guide them as they set about choosing a successor to the Argentinian pontiff, who died on Easter Monday.

Outside the chapel stood a phalanx of Swiss Guards, resplendent in their yellow and blue striped uniforms and red-plumed helmets.

The cardinals, who come from five continents and more than 70 countries, then processed solemnly out of the Pauline Chapel, chanting the meditative Litany of the Saints.

Cardinals stand inside the Sistine Chapel before the beginning of the conclave - Vatican Media

The hymn implores the saints to help them choose a new leader for the 1.4 billion-strong Catholic Church.

Pacing slowly across marble-inlaid floors, past splendid frescoes, they entered the Sistine Chapel, where the walls and ceilings are covered in frescoes by Renaissance masters including Michelangelo, Botticelli and Pinturicchio.

They walked slowly up to the altar, over which looms Michelangelos imposing Last Judgment, a huge fresco showing some souls ascending to Heaven  and others plunging down into Hell.

After bowing to the altar, they took their places at tables that had been laid out on either side of the chapel.

They wore heavy crucifixes around their necks. One of them will, within just a few days, become the next pope  he just does not know it yet.

The procession was led by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who as secretary of state under Pope Francis was the de facto prime minister of the Vatican City State.

He led the cardinals in chanting the Latin invocation of the Holy Spirit: Veni, Creator Spiritus.

Parolin among leading contenders

Cardinal Parolin is considered one of the leading papabile  an Italian word that translates as pope-able, meaning a cardinal with a strong chance of being elected pontiff.

Among the other favourites are Luis Antonio Tagle, a cardinal from the Philippines who would become the first Asian pope if elected; Pierbattista Pizzaballa, an Italian who is the Patriarch of Jerusalem; and the Hungarian cardinal Peter Erdo, a favourite of conservatives.

Other contenders include Jean-Marc Aveline from Marseilles, who would become the first French pope since the 14th century, and Robert Prevost from Chicago, who would be the first pope from the US.

The conclave is being cast broadly as a battle between progressive cardinals keen to perpetuate the achievements of Franciss 12-year papacy, and conservatives anxious to roll back many of his initiatives.

Gregorio Rosa Chavez, a cardinal from El Salvador, does not think that his brother cardinals will retreat from Pope Franciss vision for the Church.

There will not be a step backwards, he told Italys Corriere della Sera newspaper.

It is not possible. Whoever is chosen, I think it will be a pope who continues the work begun by Francis.

The doors of the Sistine Chapel were sealed shut to marking the beginning of the conclave process

Francis appointed 108 of the 133 cardinals, suggesting that the progressives may predominate, but nothing is assured in a Vatican conclave.

Francis himself was an outsider during the last conclave and his election was a surprise to many.

Nobody knows how many days it will take the cardinals to elect the 267th pope. Francis and his predecessor, Benedict XVI, were both elected in two days, but the longest conclave in history, in the 13th century, dragged on for nearly three years.

The fact that there are so many cardinals, and that many of them have never met each other, could suggest a long conclave.

Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the archbishop of New York, thinks it could take up to four days.

People say, Oh, do you have a problem choosing a candidate? he told a US radio network.

Im saying, Yeah, not because theres not enough of them, but because theres quite a few of them.

And so when I go through the guys that impressed me, the guys Ive got to know, the guys about whom Ive consultedthered be a half dozen or so guys that I could say, He would not be bad.

Crowds in St Peters Square waited with bated breath for the outcome of the first round of voting on Wednesday - Eloisa Lopez

Before the conclave began, the cardinals swore an oath of secrecy. Then came the moment of truth: Archbishop Diego Ravelli, the Vaticans master of liturgical ceremonies, pronounced the Latin words extra omnes  everybody out.

Dozens of white-robed priests, ushers, officials and members of the Vatican choir filed out of the chapel in silence.

With a metallic clank, the ancient wooden doors to the 15th century chapel were pulled shut.

Two Swiss Guards stood to attention outside, their long halberds at the ready.

The cardinals were cloistered inside, shut off from the outside world  they are forbidden to have mobile phones or any other forms of communication and the chapel has been swept for listening devices.

Concealed from the world, the cardinals filled out ballots marked Eligo in Summum Pontificem (I elect as Supreme Pontiff).

They placed them on a silver plate, from where they were tipped into an urn which rested on a table in front of The Last Judgment.

Three cardinals known as scrutineers announced each vote to the assembled conclave after each round.

Just one vote was held on Wednesday, but from Thursday onwards there will be four votes a day.

08:13 PM BST

Thats all for today

Thank you for following The Telegraphs live coverage of the first day of the conclave.

The 133 cardinals will continue to vote for a new pontiff on Thursday, when they will hold four separate ballots.

08:10 PM BST

Black smoke indicates no new pope

Black smoke has emerged from the chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel, indicating that a new pope has not been elected.

Black smoke rises from the chimney on the Sistine Chapel

People gather in St Peters Square on the first day of the conclave - Guglielmo Mangiapane

07:56 PM BST

Feverish speculation about delay

There is feverish speculation about why it is taking so long for smoke to emerge from the chimney on top of the Sistine Chapel.

One theory is that a 90-year-old cardinal who gave a meditation to the cardinals after the doors of the chapel were closed may have delivered a particularly long address.

The meditation is to be given by Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa.

Once delivered, he is to leave the chapel and let the voting begin.

07:34 PM BST

Still no sign of black smoke...

There is still no sign of black smoke coming from the chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel.

Tens of thousands have gathered to watch the chimney in St Peters Square.

07:04 PM BST

About 30,000 people gather to watch chimney

There are now around 30,000 people in and around St Peters Square, according to authorities.

The size of the crowd is increasing by the minute, according to Ansa, Italys national news agency.

People are straining to see the chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel, from which the smoke will emerge.

A seagull has become the unlikely star of the chimneys live video feed.

06:36 PM BST

All eyes on the chimney in St Peters Square

There is a sense of acute anticipation in St Peters Square as thousands of people fix their eyes on the chimney installed on top of the Sistine Chapel.

Smoke is yet to emerge.

The piazza and the avenue behind it are packed with people.

People are using their mobile phones to take videos and photos of the slim chimney.

At one point, it became almost impossible to see because the sun was directly behind it.

05:30 PM BST

Listen to our latest podcast

05:22 PM BST

Pictured: Papal master of ceremonies closes chapel doors

The doors are closed after Everyone out is called

05:16 PM BST

Thousands gather to watch the ceremony on screen

Thousands of people have gathered in St Peters Square to watch the proceedings, which have been streamed live on several large screens.

There was applause for the declaration of Extra omnes or Everyone out.

It would be perfect, lovely to be here for a new pope, said Irish tourist Catriona Hawe, 60.

Francis was brilliant, progressive, a man of the people, though he didnt move things forward as quickly as I would have liked, she said.

The Church wont be doing itself any favours if it elects someone conservative.

Besides outward displays of faith, the conclave has generated a festive atmosphere, with one young woman in the square sporting a black miniature poodle dressed as the pope.

A giant screen in St Peters Basilica shows cardinals inside the Sistine Chapel - AP

04:53 PM BST

A womans place is in the conclave

A group of women have lit pink smoke flares on a hill behind the Vatican on Wednesday in protest against the male-dominated Catholic church.

While the world may be waiting for white or black smoke, our pink smoke is a signal that women should be included in every aspect of the life of the Church, said Kate McElwee, the executive director of Womens Ordination Conference, adding, A womans place is in the conclave.

The women said they had been arrested in the past when bringing their protests closer to St Peters Square, leading them to hold the protest on the Ganicolo Hill behind the Vatican.

04:49 PM BST

Cardinals take oath of secrecy before conclave

The cardinals have taken an oath of secrecy in the Sistine Chapel before being locked into the conclave to vote for the next pope.

After reciting the oath in Latin, each of the 133 princes of the church advanced to the altar to take their personal vow, placing their hands on the Bible.

The cardinals pledged to maintain secrecy about what will transpire inside the chapel and to not allow any outside interference influence their voting.

When the rituals came to an end, the master of papal liturgical ceremonies, Archbishop Diego Ravelli, then called out extra omnes, which is Latin for all out.

Anyone not eligible to vote was then forced to leave and the chapel doors were closed, allowing the work to begin.

04:47 PM BST

Vatican official orders non-cardinals to leave Sistine Chapel

A Vatican official has said extra omnes, the Latin phrase to tell non-cardinals to leave the Sistine Chapel so voting can start.

04:39 PM BST

Frontrunners to become the next Pope

04:36 PM BST

Charming accents mark diversity of cardinals

The cardinals are continuing to take their oaths, which reporters in the Sistine Chapel have described as charming owing to the diversity in accents.

The current conclave to elect a new pope is notably diverse, with cardinals from as far afield as Mongolia and Tonga.

Almost every member of the College of Cardinals can understand Italian, and most can speak the language as well.

The official proceedings of a papal conclave are conducted in Latin and are translated into Italian.

03:45 PM BST

Cardinals chant Litany of the Saints as they file into chapel

Catholic cardinals have filed into the Sistine Chapel for the start of the conclave to elect Franciss successor.

As they processed into the chapel adorned with Michelangelos The Last Judgement, the 133 cardinals chanted the meditative Litany of the Saints.

The hymn implores the saints to help the cardinals find a new leader of the 1.4 billion-strong Catholic Church.

A line of Swiss Guards stood at attention as the cardinals took their turn to bow at the altar.

The doors will soon be closed

The cardinals arrve at the chapel

03:16 PM BST

Cardinal Timothy, of New York, shares a thought before the first vote

This is the day we enter the conclave and I'm about to go into the Domus Sanctae Marthae, named after St. Martha, who took care of hospitality for Jesus. We leave here and go over to the Sistine Chapel every day for prayers and voting, but this is where we reside. I won't be able pic.twitter.com/uO0zGdrwbo  Cardinal Dolan (@CardinalDolan) May 7, 2025

03:11 PM BST

Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin prays at Holy Mass

Cardinal Pietro Parolin - Anadolu

03:09 PM BST

Prayers for a young pope

Lisette Herrera, a 54-year-old tourist from the Dominican Republic, was deeply moved to find herself by chance in the heart of Roman Catholicism as the church plans to select a new pope.

On Wednesday morning, she decided to skip seeing the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain and other sites to pray in St Peters Square, even though she realises there is no telling how long the conclave could take.

Im praying the Holy Spirit for a young pope who would stay with us for a long time, she said. I dont believe in conclave politics, I just feel that the Holy Spirit is here and thats all we need to know.

02:41 PM BST

Pictured: Cardinals gather for the final mass

St Peters Basilica - AFP

02:26 PM BST

Salvadorian cardinal says new pontiff will continue the work of Francis

Cardinal Gregorio Rosa Chavez, from Salvador, said he did not think the cardinals would retreat from Francis vision for the Church.

There will not be a step backwards, Rosa Chavez, 82, told the Corriere della Sera newspaper.

It is not possible. Whoever is chosen, I think it will be a pope who continues the work begun by Francis, he said.

01:47 PM BST

Pictured: Nuns take part in celebrations near the Vatican

Nuns from Spain gather near the Vatican - Francisco Seco/AP

Nuns buy ice creams in Rome - Hannah McKay/REUTERS

01:38 PM BST

Diversity should be central to next Popes ethos, says senior cardinal

A senior cardinal has urged the cardinals who will vote in the conclave to elect a pope who prizes unity in diversity, and puts personal interests aside.

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, outlined the marching orders for the 133 men who will enter the Sistine Chapel.

In his sermon at the final pre-conclave Mass at St Peters Basilica, Re reminded the cardinals that a conclave represented the highest human and church responsibility, and that they must set aside every personal consideration.

He said the new pope should foster communion and unity within the church.

The new pope will face diplomatic balancing acts, as well as Church infighting, the continued fall-out from the clerical child abuse scandal, and increasingly empty pews.

Battista Re urged the cardinals to pray for a pope who knows how best to awaken the consciences of all... in todays society, characterised by great technological progress but which tends to forget God.

01:30 PM BST

Three British cardinals to vote

Three cardinals from Britain are taking part in the conclave this year.

Cardinals Vincent Nichols, Timothy Radcliffe and Rome-based Arthur Roche are among the 133 electors involved in selecting the next pontiff.

Cardinal Nichols, the leader of England and Wales Catholics and Archbishop of Westminster, had called on people to pray for the cardinals as they embark on the conclave, adding that he feels quite intimidated knowing the world is watching to see who they choose.

He said numerous lengthy pre-conclave meetings had allowed cardinals to get to know each other and to appreciate the variety of gifts, insights and dedication among us.

He added that cardinals are entering the meeting in a profound spirit of prayer and attentive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit who will, I am sure, guide our decisions.

The 79-year-old cardinal, from Liverpool, added: I do hope that Catholics and indeed all people will say a prayer asking for Gods blessing at this important moment.

He has previously effectively ruled himself out of the running to be the next pontiff, describing himself as too old, not capable.

Cardinal Radcliffe, 79, of the Oxford community, was made a cardinal by Pope Francis last December.

01:17 PM BST

Key timings to look out for this afternoon

2.45pm  Cardinals will begin to leave their rooms for a procession to the Sistine Chapel

3.10pm  Cardinals will gather to pray before heading to the chapel singing Veni Creator Spiritus (Come, Holy Spirit)

4.45pm  Oath of secrecy to be taken by the cardinals inside the chapel

6pm  Smoke expected after the first round of voting

01:00 PM BST

Thousands of police officers secure the Vatican

The Vaticans Swiss Guards and Italian Carabinieri have been mobilised as Rome moves to protect the cardinals and people who have amassed to watch the election in St Peters Square.

As of this morning, police were carrying out enhanced checks on people entering the area.

More than 4,000 officers have been deployed, with an anti-drone system and signal jammers to block communication between the cardinals and the outside world once they enter into their secret assembly.

The safety of the cardinals is a priority, but so is that of the faithful outside, said Fabio Ciciliano, the head of Italys Civil Protection agency.

12:34 PM BST

Pictured: Inside St Peters Basilica

The Holy Mass at St Peters Basilica in the Vatican - LESSANDRO DI MEO/EPA-EFE/SHUTTERSTOCK

The special Mass Pro eligendo papa or for the election of the Pope - VATICAN MEDIA

Cardinals file into St Peters church - VATICAN MEDIA/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

12:24 PM BST

Controversy over missing cardinal

As cardinals prepare to enter the Sistine Chapel for the conclave later today, there is controversy over one who is missing.

John Njue, a cardinal from Kenya, is not in Rome and claims he was not invited to the conclave.

At 79, he is eligible to vote in the election, which will decide who is the next pope.

But he will not be among the 133 cardinals who enter the Sistine Chapel this afternoon.

He claims he did not receive an official summons to Rome. The fact is that I have not been invited, he told the Kenyan press.

But the Holy See disputes that, insisting that they were told that the cardinal was too ill to travel from Kenya to Rome.

Matteo Bruni, the Vatican spokesman, said: Cardinal electors can participate de iure (by law). They dont need an invitation to be present.

The Catholic Church in Kenya also said the cardinal was ill. In a statement, Philip Anyolo, the archbishop of Nairobi, said that owing to his current health condition, His Eminence John Cardinal Njue will be unable to travel to Rome and take part in the conclave.

12:13 PM BST

Scheming cardinals plot to block another progressive pope

St Peters Square on the eve of a papal conclave is so busy, I almost trod on a nun. The little grey mouse squealed and ran away.

Thousands of Catholics are in town for the election of Franciss successor  willing, praying for the cardinals to make the correct choice.

Read the full analysis here

11:58 AM BST

How the voting works

The 133 cardinals who enter the Sistine Chapel this afternoon will hold just one vote as they decide who should be elected the successor to Pope Francis.

It is highly unlikely that they will come to a consensus with the first vote, so black smoke (signifying nobody has been elected) is expected to billow from the chimney that has been installed on the roof of the chapel.

The smoke is likely to emerge sometime after 7pm local time (6pm in the UK), according to Matteo Bruni, the Vatican spokesman.

After today, there will be four votes a day until a pope is elected.

Nobody knows how long the process will take...apart from the Holy Spirit, perhaps.

White smoke will signal that the new pope has been chosen.

11:54 AM BST

A visual guide to the election

The process to choose the new pontiff is laden with rituals and traditions.

Each day, dressed in striking scarlet robes, cardinals will make their way from their lodgings in Casa Santa Marta to the chapel, where votes are cast beneath the frescoes.

Heres our visual guide of how the cardinals will spend the next few days in the conclave.

Map data: Google

11:46 AM BST

Pictured: St Peters Square as the Holy Mass is celebrated

St Peters Square in The Vatican - STEFANO RELLANDINI/AFP

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re leads the Holy Mass this morning - Murad Sezer/REUTERS

A man prays in St Peters Square - Eloisa Lopez/REUTERS

11:39 AM BST

Pictured: Sistine Chapel ready to host the papal conclave

The Sistine Chapel - X

11:34 AM BST

What is a conclave?

The conclave is the arcane process of choosing the next pope.

Cardinals from around the world will gather beneath the frescoed ceilings of the Sistine Chapel in the heart of the Vatican, where they will vote for Pope Franciss successor by secret ballot.

The chapel will have been swept for bugs and other recording devices and cardinals will be banned from using laptops or mobile phones.

For the last conclave in 2013, which followed the historic resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, an oath of secrecy was taken by members of the Swiss Guard and Vatican gendarmerie, the city states police force, as well as the doctors and nurses who assisted elderly or infirm cardinals.

A Vatican master of ceremonies will pronounce the words Extra omnes (Everyone out), ordering staff and aides to leave the chapel so that only the cardinal electors remain.

11:30 AM BST

Whats happened today so far?

Cardinals attended a morning mass at St. Peters Basilica where the dean of the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re, led the prayers.

During the service Cardinal Re, 91, called for electors to find the wisdom, counsel and understanding to choose a worthy new shepherd.

The mass has now concluded and electors have returned to their residences to rest for a few hours ahead of the conclave.

Later in the afternoon, the Vatican has said that all communications around the Holy See will be jammed as they prepare to withdraw from the outside world for their secret and sacred task ahead.

The cardinals are likely to cast their first vote later in the day.
Plumes of black smoke have emerged from the chimney on top of the Sistine Chapel, signalling that the 133 cardinals sealed off inside have failed to elect a new pope on the first day of conclave.

After the formal procession to the Sistine Chapel and each of the cardinals swearing the oath to secrecy, the first voting round only got under way at about 5.45pm local time. Then all eyes were on the famous chimney, which was diligently guarded by a seagull for some of the time the cardinals were voting.

After a tense wait, black smoke finally appeared at 9:05pm  to loud applause from the crowd of more than 45,000 below.

The conclave will continue on Thursday, and end only when a successor to Pope Francis, who died last month aged 88, is found.

St Peters Square was packed even though the pope was not expected to be elected on the first day.

Cinzia Caporali and her husband, from Tuscany, had come to Rome to visit Pope Franciss tomb at Santa Maria Maggiore basilica in the Esquilino neighbourhood.

Caporali recalled being in the Italian capital the moment Franciss predecessor Benedict XVI was elected in April 2005. The conclave that chose Joseph Ratzinger was over in less than 36 hours, one of the fastest papal elections in a century.

I was in a cafe not far away and people were shouting: Fatto, fatto, fatto! [Its done]. Then I went outside and saw the white smoke, said Caporali.

Now she was eagerly waiting to hear who the new pope would be. I hope it will be a continuation of Francis, she said. He was for the marginalised people, and we need to make sure this continues. We dont want to see the flashy richness of the church, this is no longer in fashion.

In his homily during the cardinals pre-conclave mass in St Peters Basilica on Wednesday morning, Giovanni Battista Re, the Italian cardinal who also led the funeral mass of Pope Francis, appeared to call for the same.

Re implored the voters to cast aside all personal considerations, adding that choosing a new pope was an act of maximum responsibility.

We are here to invoke the help of the holy spirit, to implore his light and strength so that the pope elected may be he whom the church and humanity need at this difficult and complex turning point in history, he said.

He also urged them to be guided by love, because love is the only force capable of changing the world.

Finding a suitable successor to Francis is a tough task, partly because he left behind a diverse but divided college of cardinals. Many cardinals had not met each other before travelling to Rome for his funeral. Some are in harmony with the progressive church Francis promoted during his 12-year papacy, while others want to overthrow his changes and turn back the clock.

Still, the feeling before the conclave was that no cardinal wanted the election to last for more than two or three days, in part because they do not want to give the impression that the Catholic church is divided.

Related: Fist fights, ghostly pranks and schism: a brief history of conclaves past

During twice-daily pre-conclave meetings in the run-up to the vote, the cardinals shared their visions on the future of the Catholic church and discussed issues including evangelisation, the Vaticans finances, clerical sexual abuse, war and service to the poor and migrants.

But one topic missing from the agenda was the role of women in the church, something that Francis was keen to promote, even if he repeatedly said women could never become priests.

Catholic womens groups, which for years have fought for womens ordination, have converged in Rome in recent days.

Bursts of pink smoke filled the air on Gianicolo hill, which overlooks St Peters, before the conclave began. The smoke was part of a peaceful protest organised by advocates from the UK-based group Catholic Womens Ordination (CWO).

The cardinal-electors  133 men  will use smoke signals to communicate to the world they have elected a new pope, said Miriam Duignan, who led the CWO advocates. As they refuse to listen to women and have rendered one half of the population of the global church silent and subservient, we communicated with them, also via smoke signals, in the hope they might open their eyes to the injustice they are upholding.
Cyril Radcliffe (left) and the last Maharaja of Kashmir, Hari Singh - Getty Images and Alamy

On July 8 1947, a senior British barrister called Cyril Radcliffe arrived for the first time in India and was handed an impossible job.

The British were leaving the subcontinent, and the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League  the parties led by Jawaharlal Nehru and Muhammad Ali Jinnah respectively  had agreed to partition India to allow the creation of Pakistan as a homeland for the sub-continents Muslims.

They could not agree on a border, and both they and Lord Mountbatten, the British viceroy, wanted one drawn by Independence, which was scheduled for August 15.

Radcliffe, whose ignorance of the country was seen as a guarantee of his impartiality, had just five weeks to decide the fate of millions of people.

In the West, Radcliffe drew a red line dividing Pakistan from India from the Arabian Sea to the top of Punjab. But when he reached the foothills of Kashmir and Jammu, he stopped. Technically, the highlands feeding the headwaters of the Indus river were in one of the princely states of British India.

Radcliffes map shows the hastily drawn  and still disputed  border between India and Pakistan - Alamy Stock Photo

The principality of Kashmir and Jammu was inhabited mostly by Muslims and had once been part of the Sikh empire. But since the first Anglo-Sikh war a century earlier, Kashmir had been ruled by the Dogra dynasty of Hindu Rajputs, under the suzerainty of Britain.

It was a strange arrangement with all kinds of odd contradictions. Hari Singh, the Maharajah in 1947, was still nominally sovereign ruler, but was British educated and often wore a British military uniform.

He had sent troops from his small army to fight for the British in the Second World War and sat on Churchills war cabinet. His army and police were mostly Muslims, but his officers  until Independence  were British.

Singh was seen as a liberaliser. Before the war he set up the states first legislature and adopted a constitution that outlawed child marriage, made primary education compulsory, and opened places of worship to the lower castes. But he was not exactly a democrat, with fewer than half of the seats in the new parliament elected.

Now he, and the rulers of more than 500 other princely states across the subcontinent, faced a crucial choice created by the reality of partition: join India or Pakistan.

For Singh, it was an impossible dilemma. Kashmir literally and figuratively straddled the fault-line of partition; more than three quarters of his subjects were Muslim and would never accept joining India. However, the significant Sikh and Hindu minorities would never feel secure in Pakistan, especially following the bloodletting across Punjab that took place throughout much of 1947.

Further complicating things was a split between two Muslim-led parties  one pro-India, one pro-Pakistan, and both anti-Maharajah.

Lord Mountbatten urged Singh to make up his mind quickly. But Singh and his prime minister, Ram Chandra Kak, played for time. By July 1947, the Maharajah had opted to stay independent from both India and Pakistan  for the time being at least.

August 1947: Jawaharlal Nehru and Lord Mountbatten mark the moment of Indian independence - Photo12/Universal Images Group/Getty Images

Three days before formal Indian and Pakistani Independence on Aug 15, Singhs government telegraphed the governments of both new nations asking for a standstill agreement to maintain the status quo. Pakistan replied in the affirmative; India asked for talks to draw up an agreement.

Amid the turmoil of partition, independence for Kashmir was never sustainable. Two days later, Radcliffes partition line was published, and both new countries were submerged in bloodshed.

Perhaps one million people were killed and more than 15 million displaced as Muslims in India fled to Pakistan and Sikhs and Hindus in Pakistan fled the other way.

Two months later, in October 1947, riots over taxation, unemployment for returning war veterans, and demands for accession to Pakistan broke out in Kashmir. There followed a brutal massacre of Muslims by Hindu militias. Shortly afterwards, Pakistan-backed tribal irregulars invaded the princely state.

Singh appealed to India for help. Nehru, himself of Kashmiri descent, replied that help would come with a price: sign away independence and join India.

On Oct 26, Singh signed the accession agreement and Indian troops began to land in Srinagar, the Kashmiri capital.

Indian troops arrive in Srinagar to repel a Pakistani-backed invasion  days before Hari Singh signed Kashmirs accession to India - Bettmann Archive/Getty Images

Ali Jinnah, meanwhile, now the first leader of Pakistan, furiously denounced the accession deal as fraudulent and a breach of the standstill agreement.

The first India-Pakistan war had begun. One year  and 27,000 casualties  later, it ended in stalemate with India in control of two-thirds of the province and Pakistan the remainder.

There have been three more official Indian-Pakistani wars since then. The current crisis, if it spills into full-scale war, would be the fifth.

If war is averted, it will merely become the latest entry in a much longer list of skirmishes, artillery duels and other lesser conflicts.Yet in all that time neither the shape of the territory, nor the basic grievances, have changed, and the line of control today still follows the same frontline where the fighting stopped in 1948.

India insists that Kashmir is legally Indian, and accuses Pakistans powerful intelligence agencies of sponsoring terrorist atrocities, including last months attack in Pahalgam which triggered the current fighting.

Pakistan claims the province was illegally signed over to India and that its Muslim majority have suffered repeated repression under Indian rule.

For both, the high ground of the Himalayan foothills is strategically vital.

Pakistan, which relies almost entirely on the waters of the Indus River, is loath to surrender the tributaries that pass through the mountains.

Overcrowded trains at Amritsar station during Partition, 1947, as millions fled across the new IndiaPakistan border - Alamy Stock Photo

But above all, the war in Kashmir has taken on existential dimensions. For Pakistan and India, mutual antagonism has become almost a defining feature of post-independence identity, and the events of those months in 1947 remaining bitterly contested.

Pakistani commentators have long accused Mountbatten and Nehru of pressuring Singh to join India. One story holds that the Viceroy prevailed upon Radcliffe to change a section of the border to ensure that India, not Pakistan, controlled a crucial road into Kashmir.

Debate still rages about whether Singh himself was complicit in the massacres of rebels in the early days of the war, or whether the massacres themselves were exaggerated by Pakistani propaganda.

In Pakistan, perceived defeat in 1948 led, in 1951, to the first of many attempted military coups. In India, Nehru himself came under attack for appealing to the United Nations to adjudicate the peace in 1948. Narendra Modi, Indias current prime minister, claimed in 2018 that all of Kashmir would have been Indian if Nehru had not been prime minister at the time.

Hari Singh left Kashmir in 1949, and afterwards proclaimed his son and heir, Karan Singh, to act as Prince Regent  an effective abdication apparently forced by Nehru.

In 1952, Nehrus government abolished the Kashmiri monarchy altogether. And while Singh died in Mumbai in 1961, the conflict that he unwittingly helped initiate remains more explosive than ever.
Breaking barriers: the 1996 film adaptation of Irvine Welshs gritty novel Trainspotting - AP Photo/Liam Longman

The arts have a class problem. I cant believe Im writing this in 2025, but its true  in fact, the situation is worse than ever. Class is on my mind thanks to the news that New Writing North, a charity based in Newcastle, has launched an initiative called The Bee. Backed by Michael Sheen, The Bee will include a literary magazine, a podcast and an outreach programme in an attempt to increase working-class representation. Theyll even offer an alternative canon of fiction that includes New Grub Street by George Gissing and Trainspotting by Irvine Welsh.

New Writing North is an important organisation, and the involvement of Sheen will hopefully add star wattage to a serious crisis. The Sutton Trust, which monitors social mobility in the UK, reported in 2014 that only 12 per cent of those who worked in publishing came from working-class backgrounds; the proportion of middle-class workers has risen steadily since. I fear that as advances for novels and publishing salaries continue to stagnate, talented youngsters will choose better-paid and more secure professions such as law or accountancy.

Were too easily fooled by the odd high-profile success. Much was made, for instance, and quite rightly, of Douglas Stuarts assured 2020 debut novel Shuggie Bain which drew on his impoverished and dysfunctional Scottish childhood. But Stuart wasnt a young voice whod been financially cushioned  he was a working professional in his mid-forties, a boy whod grown up poor in the 1980s and through talent and determination forged a successful career in the New York fashion world.

It isnt just books. Careers in the arts are, in generally, badly paid, and any working-class youngster hoping for a career in theatre, opera or visual art (whether as an artist or behind the scenes) will struggle to make a living. Even pop, once seen as the preserve of the working-class young, feels as if its becoming increasingly bourgeois. Charli XCX, Mumford and Sons, The Last Dinner Party  so many leading musicians can boast of a pukka education. This has been the case for a couple of decades now  but once upon a time it was just Joe Strummer and the majority of Genesis.

The depressing thing about all of this is that we have gone backwards. Social mobility, in truth, ended at some point in the 1970s. Blame the Labour Party: under their education secretary Anthony Crosland, they scrapped a grammar-school system that had worked perfectly well for 40 years and thus  surprisingly for a bunch of socialists  blocked poor childrens path to a brighter future.

Tracey Emin proved that a non-Establishment voice still had the power to make a mark on the cultural landscape - Lion Television

Up to this point, the grammar had been the great social leveller. It ensured that British artistic talent was diverse: we had actors such as Eileen Atkins, artists such as David Hockney, and authors such as David Storey and Shelagh Delaney. Yes, as Britain boomed in the years that followed, the less privileged could still gain a foothold and make a decent living  an artist such as Tracey Emin proved that a non-Establishment voice still had the power to make a mark on the cultural landscape.

And, superficially at least, efforts have been made to make the arts more diverse. Most big organisations now have outreach programmes in a bid to make culture less posh. But while this is laudable, granting someone access to culture isnt the same as helping them to pursue a career in it.

In talking about this problem, we say working class as a catch-all; but, in truth, its no longer only working-class Britons who are being shut out from culture. If youre from a bog-standard middle-class family with a household salary of 35,000  pretty much the national average  its unlikely that youll be able to afford the luxury of trying to write that novel or screenplay. Theres a reason you dont hear of many playwrights who are the children of nurses or primary-school teachers.

And experience bears this out: the vast majority of professionals I encounter in the arts are well-to-do. Time and again, I meet people with lovely, creative jobs and wonder: How on earth can you afford to live in West Hampstead? And then the penny drops.

English actress Eileen Atkins in 1966 - Evening Standard/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

If Labour were to blame for essentially destroying social mobility 50 years ago, then they are hardly making amends under Keir Starmer. Earlier this year, the Prime Minister did address the posh problem in the arts when he acknowledged that almost half of British cultural stars nominated for an award over the past decade were privately educated. He also recognised that the UK creative industries are worth 1.25 billion to the economy, and pledged to make the arts more accessible.

These are useful facts, but there has to be more than words. The problem is that nobody is joining up the dots here. The promised access will not necessarily materialise into any sort of career opportunities for those from a poorer background. Unless arts organisations or publishers can start to make starting salaries more attractive, culture will continue to be ruled by an elite minority. And the issue isnt simply one of money: introducing a new generation of youngsters from all backgrounds to art and literature will have benefits to them, and in due course, to older Britons too (in the culture they create).

To keep pressing for this has never seemed more important, especially in a country where the arts in education, under the last Conservative government, were denuded. I hope The Bee, and projects like it, can succeed. Otherwise, effecting real change, and creating a meritocracy that cuts across class barriers in the way that it did until half a century ago, will forever feel like an impossible dream.
British Steel is starting to recruit workers for the first time since the Government stepped in to rescue the business.

The company announced it is hiring more than 180 new employees as it prepares to ramp up production.

A statement said it has secured the raw materials to maintain a two-blast furnace operation at its site in Scunthorpe and will significantly increase iron and steel production in the coming months.

The company is advertising for a variety of professional, skilled, and non-skilled roles in Scunthorpe, Teesside and Skinningrove.

Jobs range from engineering and environment to chemistry and cleaning, and from legal and labouring to safety and stores.

Interim chief executive officer, Allan Bell, said: With the backing of the UK Government, we are focused on cementing British Steel as one of the worlds leading manufacturers of steel.

To help achieve this, and meet customer demand, we will be upping production across all our sites and recruiting more than 180 people to help drive us forward.

These are exciting opportunities across our business, offering rewarding careers which will play important roles in building stronger futures for our business and the UK economy.

Most of the new jobs are in Scunthorpe.

Interim chief commercial officer, Lisa Coulson, said: Our employees always have been and always will be our greatest asset  they are the people who make British Steel such an incredible place to work.

Together we have a bright future so apply now and join our team.

TUC general secretary Paul Nowak said: This is great news for workers and the wider communities in Scunthorpe, Teesside and Skinningrove.

It shows the value of using the power of government to protect UK industry and to help it thrive.

We now need an industrial strategy with plans to protect and create jobs in sectors like energy, vehicles, chemicals, and ceramics.

Community unions National Secretary for Steel, Alun Davies said: Under the sites previous ownership, we regularly highlighted that there was a need to recruit to keep up with workload and reduce reliance on overtime.

This went unheeded for far too long.

Its good to see that the UK Government and UK management team are taking swift action to address this by recruiting new staff across the business.

British Steel is hosting a recruitment open day on Saturday May 17.
The Childrens Commissioner has called for under-18s to have their views considered on assisted dying, branding it deeply concerning they have not been consulted about the proposed new law going through Parliament.

Dame Rachel de Souza said the topic is one of the most profound moral and philosophical debates of a generation and said its implications for children in later life are undeniable.

Only people aged 18 and older would be eligible for an assisted death under the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill if it became law.

It would allow only terminally ill adults in England and Wales, with fewer than six months to live, to apply for an assisted death  subject to approval by two doctors and a panel featuring a social worker, senior legal figure and psychiatrist.

But Dame Rachel said childrens views should be heard, saying it must be considered whether, for some young people with additional needs, a change in the law could result in a belief in a child that their life somehow has less value than others because of their condition.

Publishing a 10-page report on Wednesday on childrens views on assisted dying, she said it was deeply concerning to me whenever legislation that affects childrens lives passes through Parliament without taking their views and opinions into consideration.

The commissioner added: Such is the case for the Assisted Dying Bill.

The Bill currently before Parliament seeks to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill adults or adults living with life-limiting conditions.

Though the proposed legislation applies only to those over the age of 18, its implications for children  especially those nearing legal adulthood  are undeniable.

Dame Rachel acknowledged that the views of the children her office had spoken to do not speak for every child and are nuanced and diverse.

But she added: Their deep consensus was that whatever their view, they must be engaged in this debate, one of the most profound moral and philosophical debates of a generation.

I absolutely agree. It is essential to listen, to reflect, and to ensure that policy and law-making does not overlook the perspective of those they will one day impact.

Whether or not a child would, on turning 18, become within scope of the Assisted Dying Bills proposals, whether it would allow a family member to end their own life and leave them without adequate support in their grief, or whether it fosters a belief in a child that their life somehow has less value than others because of their condition  all their voices deserve to be heard as part of this conversation.

The commissioner said she has written to Kim Leadbeater, the Labour MP behind the Bill, to share her report.

Among those quoted, anonymously, were a 15-year-old girl who said the government gives no social care to people like me and then gives me an option to choose to die if I feel I can no longer live, and a 16-year-old who questioned whether a law might end up removing people from society that people dont want in society?.

But another 16-year-old girl said a law could relieve pain, suffering for those who are very ill, very sick and a boy of the same age said there might be people who (this is helpful for) if someone has not much quality of life.

Ms Leadbeater has been contacted for comment.

The Bill is due to return to the House of Commons for further debate on May 16.
When specific groups are not adequately represented in trials, it creates evidence gaps about how medicines work for them. Photograph: Getty Images/Science Photo Library

Health experts are calling for more UK clinical trials to focus on finding new treatments for women, as concerning data reveals they are severely under-represented, with 67% more male-only studies than female-only.

Details of thousands of studies were collected by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the University of Liverpool. The evidence shows the UK is a hub for pioneering research, with one in eight trials testing humans for the first time, and cutting-edge treatments such as gene therapies becoming a new growth area.

But a review of the data by the Guardian found that women were significantly under-represented. Both sexes were included in most trials (90%), but male-only trials (6.1%) were nearly twice as common as female-only studies (3.7%). Pregnant and breastfeeding women were especially under-represented  involved in just 1.1% and 0.6% of trials respectively.

Womens health experts expressed alarm over the figures, which they said meant women and their doctors were having to make decisions about whether to take a drug in a vacuum of evidence. Some areas of research are dominated by men at all levels  funders, researchers, consultants and patients  and as a result there could be a reluctance to fund female-only trials, the experts added.

Dr Amy Brenner, an assistant professor in the clinical trials unit at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), said: It is particularly concerning that there are more male-only trials than female-only trials as, while they may be disease-specific, it is certainly not true that there are more male-only than female-only diseases.

The gender gap had serious implications, Brenner said. This under-representation means there is a lack of evidence on the safety and effectiveness of many interventions in women. There was an urgent need to correct the disparity in order to improve womens health outcomes, she added.

Beyond the under-representation of women in general, the absence of pregnant and breastfeeding women in UK clinical trials was also problematic, Brenner said. This may be in part because of safety concerns and a likely reluctance to put babies at risk, she said. However, without trials in these populations these women will continue to miss out on possible beneficial treatments

The Guardian reviewed the data from a study led by the MHRA and the University of Liverpool, which collected details of all 4,616 clinical trials submitted to the MHRA between 2019 and 2023.

Cancer trials dominated, making up nearly a third of all studies, but other major conditions lagged behind. Heart disease  the worlds biggest killer  received just 5.2% of research focus. Reproductive and childbirth trials made up only 2.2% of the total.

Trials for conditions such as chronic pain, respiratory conditions and mental health disorders were among the least common, despite their significant impact on public health.

Patients aged 65 or above made up 67.7% of participants. Cutting-edge treatments, such as gene and cell therapies, represent a growing focus of research efforts but still represent only 3.4% of trials, despite their potential to transform care for patients with limited treatment options.

The Guardian found the number of male-only trials (282) was 67% higher than female-only trials (169), and pregnant and breastfeeding women took part in only about one in 100 medical studies.

Prof Anna David, the director of the EGA Institute for Womens Health at UCL, said the important findings helped explained why so few new treatments for womens health issues were emerging, and why some women are not getting the care they need.

There is this perception that women, pregnant women and breastfeeding women do not want to participate in clinical trials and therefore they are usually not considered as potential participants, even in phase 3 clinical trials. This is not the case.

She added: Women and their healthcare providers are therefore having to make decisions about whether to take a drug in a vacuum of evidence, which is not ethical.

David was especially concerned that only 2.2% of trials focused on reproductive and childbirth issues. Pregnancy conditions such as pre-eclampsia, preterm labour, and placental insufficiency leading to foetal growth restriction are major diseases with no current treatments, she said.

Prof Andrea Manfrin, the MHRAs deputy director of clinical investigations and trials, said there was a notable imbalance between male-only and female-only trials. When specific groups are not adequately represented in trials, it creates evidence gaps about how medicines work for them.

The MHRA was working with trial sponsors, researchers and ethics committees to promote studies that better reflect the population, he said. Increasing diversity in clinical trials is a priority for us at the MHRA. We are committed to supporting inclusive, safe and scientifically robust research across the UK.

Brenner said the key to increasing the number of female-only trials, and the number of women taking part in trials more generally, was involving more women in the early stages of their design.

In the LSHTM clinical trials unit we plan all trials with patient and public involvement, involving patients, carers and the public in designing and running trials, she said. Ensuring strong representation from women in these groups is a first step to understanding barriers and increasing womens participation in trials.

The health minister Karin Smyth said the government was determined to make the UK a world leader in life sciences, developing groundbreaking new treatments focused on the conditions that matter most to patients. The science minister Lord Vallance said: We must make sure that trials of new medicines are available to everyone to take part.

 This article was amended on 8 May 2025. An earlier version referred to Prof Andrea Manfrin as a woman rather than a man.
Cardinals charged with picking a new pope to lead the Catholic Church have been told they are making a choice of exceptional importance.

The 133 electors gathered in St Peters Basilica on Wednesday for a special mass ahead of entering the Sistine Chapel for the secret conclave meeting to choose the next head of the Church.

Following a centuries-old tradition, they will be cut off from all communications with the outside world while they take part in the anonymous voting process.

All eyes will be on Vatican City to see which colour smoke is emitted from the specially-erected chimney of the Sistine Chapel  black indicating no pope has been elected but white confirming a successor to Pope Francis.

The Sistine Chapel, where cardinals will gather to elect the new pope (Vatican Media via AP)

If a first vote is taken on Wednesday it will not take place until the afternoon but thereafter there can be up to four votes a day.

A two-thirds majority is required for someone to be elected.

Addressing cardinals, dressed in their distinctive red vestments, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re said: We are here to invoke the help of the Holy Spirit, to implore his light and strength so that the pope elected may be he whom the Church and humanity need at this difficult and complex turning point in history.

To pray, by invoking the Holy Spirit, is the only right and proper attitude to take as the cardinal electors prepare to undertake an act of the highest human and ecclesial responsibility and to make a choice of exceptional importance.

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re celebrates a final mass with cardinals inside St Peters Basilica, before the conclave to elect a new pope (Gregorio Borgia/AP)

This is a human act for which every personal consideration must be set aside, keeping in mind and heart only the God of Jesus Christ and the good of the Church and of humanity.

The pontiff is believed to be someone called to be the successor to St Peter, who was the first pope.

This conclave is thought to be one of the most diverse of any meeting of cardinals before, representing some 70 countries and hailing from places like Mongolia, Sweden and Tonga which had not had a cardinal before.

Pope Francis had appointed some 108 of the 133 cardinals who will choose his successor.

Cardinal Battista Re said a new pope must foster a sense of communion  communion of all Christians with Christ; communion of the Bishops with the Pope; communion of the Bishops among themselves.

Cardinal Vincent Nichols is among those entering the secret conclave meeting (James Manning/PA)

He added: This is not a self-referential communion, but one that is entirely directed towards communion among persons, peoples and cultures, with a concern that the Church should always be a home and school of communion.

He said there is a strong call to maintain the unity of the Church although this is a unity that does not mean uniformity, but a firm and profound communion in diversity, provided that full fidelity to the Gospel is maintained.

There are three UK cardinals taking part in conclave  Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe and Rome-based Cardinal Arthur Roche.

Cardinal Nichols had called on people to pray for himself and other cardinals as they embark on the secret voting process, adding that he feels quite intimidated knowing the world is watching to see who they choose.

Cardinal Nichols, who is the leader of England and Wales Catholics and Archbishop of Westminster, said numerous lengthy pre-conclave meetings had allowed cardinals to get to know each other and to appreciate the variety of gifts, insights and dedication among us.

Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi looks up during a final mass celebrated by cardinals inside St Peters Basilica, before the conclave to elect a new pope (Gregorio Borgia/AP)

Cardinal Nichols, who is taking part in his first conclave, has previously spoken of the weight on the shoulders of the electing cardinals, knowing theirs is a choice which will have significant consequences for the Church on the world stage.

He said cardinals are entering the meeting in a profound spirit of prayer and attentive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit who will, I am sure, guide our decisions.

The cardinal, from Liverpool, added: I do hope that Catholics and indeed all people will say a prayer asking for Gods blessing at this important moment.

Pope Francis was dubbed the peoples pope (Jeff Moore/PA)

He has previously effectively ruled himself out of the running to be the next pontiff, describing himself as too old, not capable.

Francis was outspoken on politics, speaking out against war and climate change, as he urged more focus on the poor and downtrodden of the world.

His funeral last month drew hundreds of thousands of mourners, including world leaders such as US President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.

Such was Franciss popularity, he was dubbed the peoples pope.
Sir Keir Starmer has been warned that reducing fees for European students could force some universities to cut courses - PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo

The EU is demanding tuition fee reductions for its students as part of a Brexit reset deal with the UK.

A number of EU states want any deal for its young citizens to study and work in the UK to contain provisions that would result in Europeans paying the same fees as British students.

EU students are currently charged at overseas rates, which can be as much as 38,000 compared with 9,250 for UK students, rising to 9,535 for 2025-26.

But the UK Government is understood to be resisting the demand, which would hit universities that lose money on domestic students and cross-subsidise the cost of their studies and research through the profits from overseas students.

University sources said that it could force some institutions to cut courses unless the Government provided extra funds or they boosted their recruitment of overseas students.

Recruiting more international students is one option for some universities though others have informal caps on student numbers agreed with local authorities, said a senior university insider.

The differences over tuition fees is seen as one of the significant sticking points in the negotiations over a youth mobility scheme that would enable EU citizens aged between 18 and 30 to study and work in the UK.

Nick Thomas-Symonds, the European relations minister, has confirmed that Britain is considering setting up a youth mobility scheme with the EU - Lucy North/PA

Nick Thomas-Symonds, the European relations minister, confirmed publicly for the first time on Wednesday that Britain is looking at setting up such a scheme as part of a new strategic partnership with the EU, to be launched at a summit on May 19.

Negotiations are ongoing, an EU diplomat said. Obviously at this stage everyone wants more. I think the member states would like to see something on youth mobility. The same access and not treating students like illegal migrants.

If the EU gets its way, fees would return to the pre-Brexit situation where EU students were charged at the same rate as UK students for their studies at British universities.

But there are concerns that it would set a precedent for other youth mobility agreements that the UK has with countries such as Australia and New Zealand, where students pay the full overseas rates.

Sir Keirs red lines for the negotiations with Brussels include not returning to freedom of movement, but it is understood the Government considers a limited youth mobility scheme would not break that promise.

Red lines

Mr Thomas-Symonds told the Financial Times that provided the Governments red lines were respected, a smart, controlled youth mobility scheme would of course have benefits for our young people.

The EU diplomat indicated privately that they would cap numbers in any scheme and make it time limited, and Thomas-Symonds confirmed: We will consider sensible EU proposals in this space.

Sir Keir Starmer and Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, are concerned that it must not undermine Labours manifesto commitment to reduce net migration. This would mean that it would have to be limited to one year, with similar levels of young people being allowed to enter the UK as leave Britain to study or work in the EU.

European negotiators said their UK counterparts had shown more willingness to discuss a youth mobility scheme ahead of Mr Symonds Thomass comments.

EU sources described the Brexit ministers intervention as an attempt to shape Labours sales pitch of any deal to British voters.

The EU has previously said agreement on a youth mobility scheme is central to any Brexit reset with the UK.
All eyes on Sistine Chapel for smoke as secret conclave begins to elect new pope

All eyes are on Vatican City for the sign of a new pope, as cardinals processed into the Sistine Chapel to begin the secret conclave meeting.

The 133 electors, mostly dressed in distinctive bright red vestments, each took an oath pledging secrecy in their vote and about what happens in conclave.

At around 4.45pm UK time, a Vatican official declared extra omnes, the Latin phrase telling non-cardinals to leave, with the large brown doors of the chapel shut shortly after.

The Vatican livestream cut to crowds in St Peters Square in front of St Peters Basilica, some of whom waved when they spotted they were on camera and many of whom are likely to be eagerly anticipating a smoke signal.

Smoke indicating whether or not the 267th pope has been chosen could come from the specially-erected chimney of the Sistine Chapel as early as Wednesday evening.

The chimney of the Sistine Chapel is where white or black smoke will come, indicating whether or not a pope has been elected (Andrew Medichini/AP)

At a special mass earlier in the day cardinals were reminded of the weighty decision they must make.

If black smoke rises into the air over St Peters Square, it will confirm no-one achieved the required two-thirds majority, and voting will resume on Thursday.

Up to four votes a day can take place from then, two in the morning and two in the afternoon, with white smoke confirming a new pope has been chosen.

There are three UK cardinals taking part in conclave  Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe and Rome-based Cardinal Arthur Roche.

Cardinal Vincent Nichols is among those entering the secret conclave meeting (James Manning/PA)

Cardinal Nichols had called on people to pray for himself and other cardinals as they embark on the secret voting process, adding that he feels quite intimidated knowing the world is watching to see who they choose.

The voting cardinals  those aged under 80 who are the only ones eligible to cast a ballot  were urged to invoke the help of the Holy Spirit to help them elect a pope whom the Church and humanity need at this difficult and complex turning point in history.

Addressing them in St Peters Basilica, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re said: To pray, by invoking the Holy Spirit, is the only right and proper attitude to take as the cardinal electors prepare to undertake an act of the highest human and ecclesial responsibility and to make a choice of exceptional importance.

This is a human act for which every personal consideration must be set aside, keeping in mind and heart only the God of Jesus Christ and the good of the Church and of humanity.

The pontiff  believed to be someone called to be the successor to St Peter, who was the first pope  will need to be a person who can awaken the consciences of all and the moral and spiritual energies in todays society, characterised by great technological progress but which tends to forget God, Cardinal Battista Re added.

Following a centuries-old tradition, cardinals are cut off from all communications with the outside world while they take part in the anonymous voting process.

Cardinal Battista Re said the late Pope John Paul II had once expressed the hope that during the hours of voting on this weighty decision, Michelangelos looming image of Jesus the Judge would remind everyone of the greatness of the responsibility of placing the supreme keys (Dante) in the correct hands.

This was a reference to Michelangelos intricate painting of the The Last Judgment in the chapel, which cardinals stood below as they took an oath pledging secrecy in their vote and about what happens in conclave.

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re celebrates a final mass with cardinals inside St Peters Basilica, before the conclave to elect a new pope (Gregorio Borgia/AP)

This conclave is thought to be one of the most diverse of any meeting of cardinals before, representing some 70 countries and hailing from places like Mongolia, Sweden and Tonga which had not had a cardinal before.

Pope Francis had appointed some 108 of the 133 cardinals who will choose his successor.

The next pope must be someone who can bring together

disparate groups within the Catholic Church, an emeritus professor of Catholic theology at the University of Bristol said.

Prof Gavin DCosta said: Although politics and power exist within the conclave, like any large institution and as shown in the recent film Conclave, the primacy of prayer by the cardinals  and their chief concern for the common good of the Church  should be kept clear.

This conclave is more universal in representative terms than any other in the history of the Church, even if it is also lacking in balance  having more European cardinals than any other single group, but with a dwindling Catholic population in Europe.

The priority will be to select a Pope who embodies the common good, who can unite disparate groups within Catholics, and provide a vision of the Church that can be conducive to peace, cooperation and justice in a broken world.

Pope Francis was dubbed the peoples pope (Jeff Moore/PA)

Francis was outspoken on politics, speaking out against war and climate change, as he urged more focus on the poor and downtrodden of the world.

His funeral last month drew hundreds of thousands of mourners, including world leaders such as US President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.

Such was Franciss popularity, he was dubbed by many to have been the peoples pope.
Five Iranian men arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act were allegedly targeting the Israeli embassy in London, according to reports.

They were arrested at locations across England on Saturday after a suspected plot to target a single premises was uncovered, the Metropolitan Police said.

The embassy in Kensington, west London, is understood to have been the target of the alleged plot, according to The Times and other press outlets, but police declined to share further details.

Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Mets counter-terrorism command, said: There are significant operational reasons why we cannot provide further information at this time.

As soon as possible we will look to share further details and in the meantime we would ask the public to remain vigilant and contact us if you have any concerns.

The Israeli embassy has been approached for comment.

The five arrested were a 29-year-old man in the Swindon area, a 46-year-old man in west London, a 29-year-old man in the Stockport area, a 40-year-old man in the Rochdale area and a 24-year-old man in the Manchester area.

The first four men were arrested on suspicion of preparation of a terrorist act, contrary to section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006, and the fifth was detained under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act.

Warrants of further detention were secured on Monday for four of the men, with the 24-year-old released on bail with conditions to a date in May.

Another three Iranian men were arrested on Saturday at three addresses in London as part of a separate counter-terrorism operation under section 27 of the National Security Act 2023.

Security minister Dan Jarvis (Richard Townshend/UK Parliament/PA)

Security minister Dan Jarvis told the Commons on Tuesday the two operations that took place were some of the largest counter state threats and counter-terrorism actions we have seen in recent times.

Iran was the first foreign power to be listed on the top level of the foreign influence registration scheme (Firs) earlier this year, aimed at protecting the UK from malign foreign influence.

It means anyone who is directed by the regime to carry out activities in the UK must declare it or face five years in prison once the scheme comes into force in July.

In October last year, the head of MI5, Ken McCallum, said authorities had stopped 20 state-backed plots hatched by Iran in the UK since 2022.
The Government has been accused of running scared of rather nasty right-wingers over plans to block new sentencing guidelines.

New guidance from the independent Sentencing Council would have recommended a pre-sentence report (PSR) be sought before sentencing offenders from ethnic, cultural or faith minorities.

Pre-sentence reports provide information about the offenders background, circumstances of their offence, the risk they pose and suitability for certain types of sentence.

The use of these reports has been linked to higher rate of community, rather than prison sentences.

The Government brought forward the Sentencing Guidelines (Pre-sentence Reporters) Bill to block the new guidelines, arguing that it would lead to a differential treatment under the law and a two-tier justice system.

The implementation of the updated rulebook has been put on hold to allow Parliament to consider this legislation.

However, supporters of the guidance argued that the UK already has a two-tier justice system, due to entrenched racial bias.

The Lammy Review, published in 2017, found disparities in outcome across the justice system for those from minority backgrounds compared to their white counterparts, including in sentencing.

As the House of Lords debated the Governments Bill during its second reading, Green Party peer Baroness Jones of Moulsecoomb argued that politicians were trying to interfere with the workings of an independent body.

She said: The Sentencing Council is an independent body that saw a problem and tried to do something about it.

It has done what it was designed to do and now the Labour Government is running scared of these rather nasty right-wingers who are trying to interfere.

I think it was Elon Musk, perhaps amongst others, who first said that Britain had a two-tier justice system.

And he was right, that is exactly what we have, because some groups are worse treated than others.

We do not have equality under the law.

Green Party peer Baroness Jones of Moulsecoomb (Stefan Rousseau/ PA credit)

Weve known about women being less fairly treated for decades, with women being imprisoned for things that men would not be.

The Sentencing Council came up with the mildest of changes to address that issue and has been slammed for it.

When the Government says it wants equality under the law, everybody wants that.

But the difference is that I accept the evidence that we currently have a two-tier system of justice where you can end up receiving worse treatment because youre a woman or because of the colour of your skin.

The Bishop of Gloucester, the Anglican bishop for prisons, branded the Bill theatrical and unnecessary, brought on by am-dram politics.

The Rt Rev Rachel Treweek said: In a world of sufficient resources, there would be comprehensive pre-sentencing reports for everyone to which careful attention was paid in court.

But if we have to prioritise PSRs, then it makes sense to prioritise those that we know are especially vulnerable or where there is evidence of disproportionate outcomes from the justice system.

Referring to the Lammy Review, she asked: Does the Government believe the issues raised in the landmark report by the current Foreign Secretary almost eight years ago are now a thing of the past?

Is there no role for judges in mitigating the issues raised in that report?

The use of the Sentencing Council guidelines to apparently feed a culture war is distressing, and the allegation of two-tier sentencing based around race, religion, belief or cultural background is so damaging to public understanding

We cannot pretend that circumstances and characteristics do not matter.

Prisons minister Lord Timpson (Ben Whitley/ PA credit)

However, unaffiliated peer Baroness Fox of Buckley hit back at the culture war argument, branding it a slur.

She said: The popular critique of criminal justice as two-tier, that actually really resonated, particularly in relation to the sentencing post-last summers riots, was sneeringly dismissed as a far-right conspiratorial myth by many ministers and politicians.

It was written off as some culture wars trope, and weve heard similar slurs here today.

She criticised the tendency to try and use criminal justice to compensate for perceived racial unfairness and alleged social injustices.

Responding, prisons minister Lord Timpson said: Implementing a sentencing guideline, which could lead to differential treatment before the law, puts trust in the legal system at risk, which is why we acted quickly to address this

The Governments objective is to help ensure equality before the law. We are clear that an offender should be judged by a court on an individual basis according to the particular facts and circumstances of their case.

It is not for the Sentencing Council to set in guidance that judgments should be made on the basis of personal characteristics like race or ethnicity.

Any reference to preferential treatment for a particular cohort is unacceptable.

He insisted that tackling disproportionate outcomes within the criminal justice system is a policy matter to be determined by the Government, not judges.

However, he acknowledged the need to tackle inequalities and told peers that the Government has commissioned a review into data held by the Ministry of Justice on racial disparities and will carefully consider next steps.
A scheme allowing young European Union citizens to study and work in the UK and vice versa would benefit British youths, the minister responsible for the talks said.

Nick Thomas-Symonds, who has previously insisted there are no plans for a youth mobility scheme, said the UK would consider sensible proposals from Brussels.

Sir Keir Starmer will host EU chiefs at a major summit on May 19 as he pushes for progress in his effort to reset relations with Brussels after the turmoil of the years since the Brexit vote in 2016.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will meet for a summit on May 19 (Justin Tallis/PA)

A youth mobility scheme was proposed by the EU but initially rejected by Labour.

Sir Keirs red lines for the negotiations with Brussels include not returning to freedom of movement, but it is understood the Government considers a limited youth mobility scheme would not break that promise.

Minister for EU relations Mr Thomas-Symonds told the Financial Times that provided the UK governments red lines were respected, a smart, controlled youth mobility scheme would of course have benefits for our young people.

Ministers have indicated privately they would cap numbers in any scheme and make it time limited, and Thomas-Symonds confirmed: We will consider sensible EU proposals in this space.

Government sources said the decision to rule out a return to free movement did not prevent controlled schemes that are in our national interest being considered and there are already youth mobility schemes with 13 non-EU countries.

As recently as last month Mr Thomas-Symonds told MPs on the issue of a youth mobility scheme, it is not part of our plans although he accepted the UK would listen to proposals.

Minister for EU Relations @NickTorfaen hosted EU Commissioner @MarosSefcovic, in London, visiting @imperialcollege to see @HorizonEU funded projects and preparing for the UK-EU Summit in May. pic.twitter.com/ASQBQ8gcDV  Cabinet Office (@cabinetofficeuk) April 30, 2025

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch has warned a youth mobility scheme, potentially including people up to 30, could mean we could end up with lots of unemployed people coming to the UK at a time when unemployment is increasing in our country.

The May 19 summit is likely to be the first in an annual series of UK-EU meetings, with progress on a security and defence agreement and measures to smooth trade the initial priorities, rather than detailed talks on a youth mobility scheme.

Mr Thomas-Symonds suggested Britain would be prepared to allow EU fishermen to continue to enjoy current access to UK waters when a five-year agreement expires in 2026, the FT reported.

French demands over fishing rights have been a stumbling block to progress on issues include a defence pact.

Mr Thomas-Symonds also left open the door to Britain continuing to align with EU rules in food standards and animal welfare, telling the FT: We are not interested in divergence for divergence sake or a race to the bottom on standards.

Liberal Democrat Europe spokesman James MacCleary said Labour should stop flip-flopping and introduce a youth mobility scheme immediately.

Securing a youth mobility scheme with the EU would be a common sense win-win  creating new opportunities for our young people and delivering a much-needed boost to our economy, he said.
How did would-be Iranian terrorists arrive in Britain? - Majid Saeedi/Getty

As MPs filed out of the Commons, something toxic lingered in the air. That unpleasant smell in the debating chamber? The whiff of a looming cover up.

Doing his best to sound open and honest, Security Minister Dan Jarvis had just updated the House on last Saturdays dramatic counter terror operation. Thanks to the brilliance of our intelligence and security services, a deadly plot on British targets has just been foiled. According to the minister, it involved at least eight Iranian nationals. Behind them lurks the Iranian state.

Former Paratrooper Jarvis could hardly be a more credible figure to explain what has happened. This is, after all, a world he understands. During a distinguished military career, he was variously deployed in Kosovo, Northern Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan. In 1999, he was at the side of the late General Sir Mike Jackson when (as head of the British Army) Jackson famously disobeyed an order by his American superior, on the grounds that it risked starting World War Three.

Hopefully the stakes are nowhere near as high in this case  yet Jarvis certainly seems afraid of something. Why else would he repeatedly refuse to reveal how the arrested Iranians came to be in the UK?

Twice during yesterdays debate, the minister was directly asked about the immigration status of the individuals arrested in London, Swindon, Rochdale, Stockport and Manchester. He had repeatedly promised to be transparent. Yet he simply would not be drawn on how long the would-be terrorists have been in this country, and what kind of visas (if any) they hold.

The excuse for the thick veil of secrecy is that releasing such information could interfere with a live counter-terror operations. Sound familiar? Isnt this exactly the kind of twaddle we were fed after the Southport murders, when Sir Keir Starmer and his cabinet colleagues spuriously claimed they could not disclose details about Axel Rudukabanas background, for fear of harming the prosecution? In a damning intervention, terror watchdog Jonathan Hall KC would later declare that the dangerous fictions that filled the resulting vacuum could have been far more prejudicial to the eventual trial than disclosing a few basic facts about the killer.

Of course, nobody wants any delicate counter-terror operation to be derailed by the release of unnecessary detail. However, it is hard to see how some simple truths about the suspects could possibly get in the way. Surely we deserve to know how these characters came to be in our midst? Even in the worst case scenario for the Government  that the men arrived on small boats, on Sir Keir Starmers watch  it is hard to imagine how disclosing this information would be anything other than politically (as opposed to operationally) disastrous.

Far more likely than the small boats scenario is that the men concerned have been living under the radar in this country for many years, quite possibly legally. Those behind the plot are probably too sophisticated to send operatives to the UK via such a crude route. Then again, this is all conjuncture borne from a failure to inform. Cue precisely the sort of public speculation that can get dangerous. Jonathan Hall QC has been crystal clear about these risks, declaring that it would have been far better for the Prime Minister to have been transparent about Rudakubanas roots. Yet here we are again.

Given the collapse of our borders, the immigration status of the suspects could not be a more pressing question. Within hours of the arrests, if not beforehand, MI5 will have shared the facts with relevant ministers  and rightly so. Week after week, thousands of young men of fighting age continue to pour across the Channel, many of them Iranian. Last year, Iranians were the third largest contingent by nationality (after Afghans and Syrians) to arrive by boat, with some 4,158 using this route to reach the UK.

According to well-placed sources involved in Home Office deportations, in the last decade only a handful of Iranian asylum seekers have ever been flown back to Tehran. Meanwhile, in the last three years alone, the police and M15 have dealt with no fewer than 20 potentially lethal Iran-backed plots.

In the wake of the latest terrifying plot, surely the British public deserve the answer to one very simple question: are our hopelessly lax borders contributing to this national security crisis?
Harbour Energy has revealed plans to axe around 250 jobs in Scotland as the firm laid the blame on punitive government measures.

The oil and gas firm said the cuts  about a quarter of its workforce in Aberdeen  come as part of a review of its UK operations.

The job losses are on top of 350 roles that were cut by the firm in 2023.

Scott Barr, managing director of Harbour Energys UK business, said: Harbour is launching a review of its UK operations, which we expect to result in a reduction of around 250 onshore roles in our Aberdeen-based business unit.

The review is unfortunately necessary to align staffing levels with lower levels of investment, due mainly to the Governments ongoing punitive fiscal position and a challenging regulatory environment.

The Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce (AGCC) branded the latest cuts a devastating blow for impacted workers and their families, and called on the Government to end the windfall tax now.

Harbour Energy has been openly opposed to the windfall tax, or the Energy Profits Levy, which was brought in by the previous Conservative government and then extended after Labour came to power last year.

The companys recent financial results showed it made pre-tax profits of 1.2 billion US dollars (898 million) in 2024, but this was decimated by what it claims was an 108% effective tax rate, leaving it with post-tax losses of 93 million US dollars (69.6 million).

Stephen Flynn, Scottish National Party (SNP) Westminster Leader and MP for Aberdeen South, raised the job cuts in Prime Ministers Questions and accused Sir Keir Starmer of destroying jobs in Scotland.

He said: Thats 250 jobs in my constituency gone in the blink of his eye.

And do you know who they blame Mr Speaker  they blame the policies of the Labour Party.

The Prime Minister responded, saying nobody wants to see job losses, but said the SNP will raise anything to distract from its disastrous record.

On the Harbour Energy cuts, Russell Borthwick, chief executive at the Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce, said: This is a devastating blow for the 250 plus families directly affected  and I fear it is just the tip of the iceberg, unless the Government changes course.

Labours long-term ambitions are laudable, but in the absence of a proper industrial strategy, we are left with policies which are destroying a world-class British industry.

The UK currently has a crippling 78% tax on North Sea oil and gas, all while importing record levels of foreign energy  with higher emissions  tax free.

He added: Enough is enough. End the windfall tax now.

The Chancellor said her thoughts were with the workers impacted but she defended the UK Governments Energy Profits Levy.

Rachel Reeves said: First of all, my thoughts are with those people who are worried about their jobs at Harbour Energy. That was a commercial decision by the business.

The Energy Profits Levy is being used to properly fund public services, whether thats our schools or our hospitals.

Ms Reeves said oil and gas would have an important role in the UK economy for years to come.

She added: Its a commercial decision by one company but there are many other companies that arent laying off workers.

It is important that, with energy companies making record profits after Russias invasion of Ukraine, that we ask those companies to pay their fair share of tax, especially when ordinary working people saw their energy bills go through the roof.
Karen Carters husband, Alan, visited the scene of her murder on Tuesday night - Alan Carter/Facebook

The husband of a British-South African expatriate killed in the Dordogne has spoken out over his wifes death after visiting the scene for the first time.

Karen Carter, a 65-year-old mother-of-four, was stabbed to death near the front porch of the gite she rented to holidaymakers on the outskirts of Tremolat, a small village east of Bordeaux.

French prosecutors believe that the killer may have harboured a grudge against either Mrs Carter or the French lover with whom she was rumoured to have been having an affair at the time of her death.

Jean-Francois Guerrier was rumoured to have been having an affair with Karen Carter at the time of her death - Paul Grover

Her husband, Alan Carter, 65, spoke with The Telegraph the day after he landed in Tremolat from South Africa and visited the site of the attack.

In a three-minute long conversation on Wednesday morning, he said: We are just trying to come to terms with what happened. We have all of the grief. We have spent the last few hours in Tremolat. It has been very difficult coming back to the village.

We are still struggling with everything, he added.

Mr Carter visited the gite, which remains cordoned off by the gendarmerie, on Tuesday evening

Accompanied by a family friend, who had travelled with him from East London, Mr Carter looked over the police tape, paused for reflection for five minutes and surveyed the scene of the attack before walking back to his car and driving away.

0705 Dordogne murder

A large pool of dried blood remains visible on the white gravel driveway.

On the ground, just outside the police tape, a pale green vase filled with roses and white trumpet lilies has been left in tribute.

Mr Carters companion, who did not wish to be identified, told The Telegraph: They are a large family stretched across continents, and all of us adults and children, are still in shock at what has happened.

We just want to respect the investigation.

Mrs Carter was found stabbed outside her guest house in the French village of Tremolat, east of Bordeaux - Paul Grover

Jean-Francois Guerrier, a 74-year-old retired Fujitsu executive, is understood to have been in a relationship with Mrs Carter for a number of weeks before the attack.

Mr Carter has said he was unaware of their relationship until it was publicly announced by the French prosecutor leading the investigation and has described a feeling of betrayal.

Mrs Carter and Mr Guerrier had both run the Cafe Village together, a community hub and watering hole in the centre of the village.

Mr Guerrier was the first to discover Mrs Carter and call the police as she lay dying next to her car with eight stab wounds to her chest, groin, arm and leg.

He was later questioned and released without charge.

Wrongly accused

Mr Guerrier has declined to comment on the case or the nature of their relationship but said Mrs Carter was a lovely lady when approached by journalists at his farmhouse.

Police arrested Marie Laure Autefort, a local 69-year-old retired carer and amateur genealogist but released her shortly afterwards without charge.

Her brother told The Telegraph that she was detained because she had become infatuated with Mr Guerrier following her divorce and was viewed as a potential love rival.

Philippe Monribot said: She was wrongly accused. And I want to say that loud and clear. All I know is that shes in a very, very bad way and wont get over this accusation.
Prisoners released early from jail in September 2024

The next crisis for the Government is looming: our prisons are almost full again. As a result, it is a near certainty that there will soon be another mass early release of violent and prolific criminals from their prison cells onto our streets.

No one doubts that our prisons are in crisis  but that is where the consensus around the sentencing of criminals should end.

As former Prime Minister Harold Macmillan said: when all the establishment are united, they are always wrong. Yet when it comes to prisons and sentencing  amongst the relevant portion of the establishment  there is a cosy consensus at play.

Prison and sentencing policy is dominated by those who might be termed the Prison Reform Industrial Complex  a small group of charities and individuals who operate in and around prisons.

For an example of their influence look to the House of Lords debate in July last year when the newly minted Prisons Minister, Lord Timpson, made his maiden speech. Amidst the traditional but genuinely well-deserved congratulations on his appointment, Peer after Peer declared an interest in one prison related charity after another. A near uniformity of opinion was expressed by their Lordships  that we should be incarcerating fewer criminals in our prison estate.

This should not come as a shock. After all, while the stated objectives of the prison reform organisations which so many Peers are aligned with are often about improving the lot of those held in prison  a laudable aim  what this frequently means in reality is that these groups would like to see fewer criminals being sent to prison.

The Prisons Minister, Lord Timpson, is a former Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Prison Reform Trust. In February last year, prior to his Ministerial appointment, Timpson gave an interview to Channel 4 News where he stated that we are addicted to punishment and so many of the people that are in prison shouldnt be there.

Such contentions are not supported by the facts  and are at odds with the public mood on crime and how criminals should be dealt with.

Last year an estimated 9.6 million crimes were committed in England and Wales  an increase of 14 per cent on the previous year alone. Despite having already racked up more than 45 previous criminal convictions, the most prolific offenders are sent to prison on less than half (46.2 per cent) of occasions after conviction for a further indictable or either-way offence.

The current limit on the number of prison places  our prisons can hold only 89,000 criminals at any one time  has led to police officers being told to pause arrests and for the judiciary to consider prison capacity limits when sentencing those convicted of criminal offences.

It is often said that the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, doesnt possess a political ideology. But this misses a crucial point: the selection of personnel  not only to Ministerial posts, but to the various non-elected bodies that oversee our public services  reveals an underlying ideology.

In October last year former Conservative Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, David Gauke was appointed to chair an independent review into the sentencing of criminals. Given Mr Gauke was at least partly responsible for the rate of prison places falling during the Conservative Partys 14 years in power  from 152 to 141 per 100,000 of the population  this is a remarkable appointment, particularly when Labour have a majority of 165 MPs. With the downward trend in the rate of prison use we can hardly be surprised that crime is now on the increase.

Presumably, Mr Gauke was appointed to give the appearance of bipartisanship to the eventual recommendations of the independent sentencing review. In reality, it merely reveals the comfortable consensus amongst much of the establishment of whatever political party  a consensus the public clearly reject.

The Governments current plan  to increase the size of our prison estate by 14,000 places  is welcome. In the coming Spending Review the Chancellor and Prime Minister must ensure they deliver the necessary funding. But the Government must go much further  an extra 43,000 prison places will be needed over the coming decade.

The Starmer Government needs to learn from the successes of past Labour ministries. Between 1997 and 2010 Labour increased the number of prison places from 119 to 152 per 100,000 of the population. Crime fell  and kept falling into the 2010s. The Government must also rebuild the prison regime so inmates can work and develop meaningful skills while in custody  activities that we know reduce the chances of reoffending on release.

One of the Governments principal challenges is to show ordinary working people that Labour understands that the greatest threats they face come not from State oppression in the form of more prison places, but rather from an insufficiency of law and order.

The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, Shabana Mahmood, has shown herself to be willing to face down the blob that permeates so many of our institutions  as demonstrated by her recent fight with the Sentencing Council.

Indeed, even some Labour MPs have privately expressed a grudging admiration for the energetic way Robert Jenrick is holding the Government to account as Shadow Justice Secretary.

Above all, it will not have escape Nigel Farages attention that  despite the popular will  too many of the same policies on prisons and sentencing seem to be pursued, no matter who is in power.

There is, ironically, the making here of a new political consensus  of decision makers, who are chosen by the public, actually doing something that the public wants.

David Spencer is the head of crime and justice for Policy Exchange and a former Detective Chief Inspector with the Metropolitan Police. He is the author of a Policy Exchange report published today Build, Baby, Build: A new generation of prisons
Credit: Social media

India launched air strikes against Pakistan on Tuesday night, bringing the two nuclear-armed nations to the brink of war.

The Indian ministry of defence announced it had carried out strikes on nine sites, two weeks after armed militants killed 26 tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir.

The South Asian neighbours also exchanged intense shelling and heavy gunfire across much of their de facto border in the Himalayan region of Kashmir.

Islamabad vowed to respond to what it called a cowardly and shameful attack launched by planes within Indian airspace.

Let me say it unequivocally: Pakistan will respond to this at a time and place of its own choosing. This heinous provocation will not go unanswered, said a spokesman for the military.

Smoke rises over Indian-administered Kashmir on Wednesday morning - Punit Paranjpe/AFP via Getty

Pakistan fully reserves the right to respond forcefully to this act of war imposed by India, and a forceful response is being given.

Indias defence ministry said that the strikes had targeted at least nine sites where terrorist attacks against India have been planned.

Pakistans army said that Indian missiles hit six locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, including the cities of Kotli and Muzaffarabad, and a mosque in the city of Bahawalpur in Punjab province.

Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif, Pakistans military spokesman, said that the Indian strikes killed at least 8 people, including women and children.

He said that the Indian jets also damaged infrastructure at a dam in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, calling it a violation of international norms.

Civilians were affected by Pakistani shelling in India - Nasir Kachroo/NurPhoto/Shutterstock

However, a statement from Indias army announcing the launch of Operation Sindoor, a reference to the red powder worn by married Hindu women, said: Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted.

Pakistan also claimed that it had shot down several Indian fighter jets in retaliation as two planes fell onto villages in India-controlled Kashmir. At least seven civilians were also killed in the region by Pakistani shelling, Indian police and medics said.

PTV, a state media service, reported that Pakistans army had brought down two Indian jets, citing security sources. Delhi had yet to respond to the claim on Tuesday night.

Donald Trump, the US president, said that he hoped fighting would end quickly when he was asked about the strikes at the Oval Office.

Credit: Reuters

India has accused Pakistan of orchestrating the Kashmir terrorist attack, one of the worst the country has suffered in decades.

Islamabad denies any involvement, with officials saying Delhi has not provided any evidence of its complicity.

The two nuclear-armed nations have fought several wars over Kashmir, which was divided during Partition in 1947.

Indias strikes hit the Subhanullah mosque in Bahawalpur, which Indian intelligence claims to be a headquarters for Jaish-e-Mohamed, a Pakistan-based terrorist group that has carried out attacks in Kashmir.

Footage posted on social media showed a huge orange explosion lighting up the night as onlookers watched from the side of the road. Pakistani officials claimed a child was killed in the strike.

Credit: Social Media

Also targeted was a rural area near Muzaffarabad once used by Lashkar-e-Taiba, the terrorist group behind the 2008 Mumbai attacks, in which 166 people were killed.

Inter-Services Intelligence, Pakistans spy agency, helped to organise the devastating massacre, according to the Pakistani-American mastermind of the attacks David Headley, under interrogation.

It has maintained close links with terrorist groups that target India, at times funnelling fighters across the border into Indian-administered Kashmir.

However, Shahbaz Sharif, the Pakistani prime minister, has rejected Delhis claims that Islamabad was behind the Pahalgam attack, calling for a neutral investigation.

Indias missile strikes came on the same day that Narendra Modi, Indias prime minister, announced the signing of a trade deal with the UK.

Residents examine a building damaged by the Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad, Pakistan - AP

The United States has also grown closer to Delhi in recent months, with JD Vance, the vice-president, visiting before a potential tariff deal.

Tensions in the region have been high since the Kashmir terrorist attack on April 22, with Delhi announcing the end of its participation in the 1960 Indus water treaty, which regulates the flow of the Indus river between the two nations.

Before the strikes, Mr Modi said that Indias water will be used for Indias interests and the decision would not be reversed.

India last carried out air strikes across the Pakistani border in 2019, hitting what it described as a terrorist training camp in Balakot after militants killed 40 Indian soldiers.

This round of fighting may be harder to control, with a greater number of sites targeted inside Pakistan.

In the past few days, Indian officials told The Telegraph that the nation remained deeply traumatised by the Mumbai attack and felt the security balance needed to be reassessed to prevent further iterations.

On Tuesday night, Khawaja Asif, Pakistans defence minister, said: We will give a far greater response than their own strike. Not only did they attack civilians but they did it from their own airspace.

Mark Rutte, the Nato secretary general, called for both sides to exercise restraint. The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan, he said.

Sadanand Dhume, a fellow of the American Enterprise Institute think tank, said that this flare-up of conflict had the potential to escalate beyond the tit-for-tat exchanges in 2019.

He wrote on X: In both 2019 and 2025, India explicitly signalled restraint. The message to Pakistan and the world: We had to do something, but we dont want this to get out of hand. The difference: In 2019 Pakistan played along. It launched a token counterstrike, showed magnanimity by returning a downed Indian MiG-21 pilot, and did not escalate further.
At least 26 people, including several children, have been killed and 46 injured after India launched attacks on what it claimed were nine sites of terrorist infrastructure inside Pakistan, in a sharp escalation of hostilities between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

Pakistan called the strikes an act of war and claimed it had shot down several Indian air force jets. The office of the prime minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, said the countrys armed forces had been authorised to undertake corresponding actions.

Pakistan said another five people were killed in artillery fire near the Line of Control, the de facto border between the two countries. Indian police and medics have said at least seven civilians were killed and 30 others wounded by retaliatory Pakistani firing and shelling overnight.

Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh, said on Wednesday his government had exercised its right to respond to avenge the killings of innocent civilians on Indian soil last month, claiming we killed only those who killed our innocents.

Pakistans National Security Committee, chaired by Sharif, said the Indian strikes were carried out on the false pretext of the presence of imaginary terrorist camps and deliberately targeted civilian infrastructure, including mosques. These unprovoked and unjustified attacks martyred innocent men, women and children, a statement said.

Islamist militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed said that 10 relatives and four associates of its leader, Masood Azhar, were killed in the Indian attack.

Indias prime minister, Narendra Modi, cancelled plans to visit Europe.

India named its attack Operation Sindoor in a reference to the wives of victims of the militant attack in the Baisaran Valley in Pahalgam in April.

China called on India and Pakistan to prioritise peace and stability, remain calm and exercise restraint, and avoid actions that could further complicate the situation. Russia said it was concerned by the development, while Turkey urged common sense.

The UK said it was ready to help both countries to de-escalate the situation. Kashmir has been disputed territory since the British partitioned India in 1947.

The UK foreign secretary, David Lammy, said Britain has close and unique relationships with both countries. I have made clear to my counterparts in India and Pakistan that if this escalates further, nobody wins.
Supporters of the Pakistan Peoples party protest against India in Karachi after the missile strikes. Photograph: Asif Hassan/AFP/Getty Images

The uneasy calm that had settled over India and Pakistan in the past two weeks was swiftly shattered in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

In the days that followed the deadly attack that killed 25 Indian tourists and a guide in Kashmir in late March, the Indian government made it clear it held Pakistan responsible  and it intended to avenge the deaths.

Meanwhile, the Indian public  horrified by accounts that tourists had been targeted and shot for being Hindu  was baying for blood. Newspaper columns and nightly discussions on TV news channels rang with calls for the prime minister, Narendra Modi, to take decisive action against Pakistan and teach them a lesson once and for all.

But a fortnight after the attack, with no clear impending action or military mobilisation in sight, some had wondered whether India really intended to retaliate. What is going on? asked one senior military analyst on Tuesday. By 1am on Wednesday, that question was answered.

In highly coordinated air and drone strikes, Indian missiles hit nine targets, both in the part of the Kashmir region administered by Pakistan and in Pakistans Punjab province. It was the first time since the 1971 Indo-Pakistan war that India had fired missiles into Punjab.

India said it had struck at terrorist infrastructure: camps and madrasas that were connected to the two main Islamist militant groups, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, behind some of the deadliest terrorist attacks in India over the past three decades. It emphasised it had not taken aim at any Pakistani military bases or weaponry. The strikes also took place entirely from Indian airspace, an apparent lesson from its last confrontation with Pakistan in 2019, when an Indian military aircraft was shot down over Pakistan and its pilot taken captive.

To some, it seemed as if India was giving Pakistan an off ramp with these strikes, to prevent them escalating. As was widely agreed by analysts, both countries and their allies can ill afford events spiralling out of their control into an all-out hot war, not seen between the two countries since 1999.

Pakistan is already in the midst of the worst security crisis in decades, as it battles a surge in Islamist militants on its Afghan border and separatists in its south-western province of Balochistan. The country is also in the grip of an economic crisis, with the Sharif coalition government widely seen as weak and unpopular.

Yet in the buildup to the strikes, Pakistans powerful army chief, Gen Asim Munir, had already vowed that Pakistan would more than match any aggression by India. After Indias strike, Pakistan was unequivocal in its response: it was nothing short of an act of war by India. It furthermore claimed to have shot down five of the Indian military aircraft that carried out the attacks  which the Indian government has not so far commented on  and made it clear that it intended to go further.

A statement by Pakistans national security council accused India of igniting an inferno and said the Pakistan army had been authorised to respond to defend Pakistans sovereignty.

Pakistans military has long been the most powerful institution in the country. With the Sharif government weakened, the decision of how to respond is widely acknowledged to be in the hands of Munir.

For those hoping for a swift de-escalation of tensions, this is a cause of concern. Munir is known to be an ideological hardliner on India and his comments on Kashmir have already been seen as highly inflammatory in Delhi. He is also known as favouring aggressive action and projections of military strength over attempts at diplomacy.

The worry here is that General Munir is not a thinking general; hes rash, hes reckless and hes highly nationalistic,, said Ayesha Siddiqua, a Pakistan political scientist. Weve already seen his gung-ho approach.

Pakistans military may also see Indias decision to strike at least three locations, including a mosque, inside Punjab as a direct provocation that could warrant a powerful retaliation.

Punjab is not only the political base of the Sharif family but also the military heartland of the country, home to the majority of soldiers and the army leadership. Indian missiles have not landed there for more than 50 years.

It remains unclear what targets Pakistan might aim for. While Pakistan accuses India of funding cross-border terrorism, there are no equivalent militant camps it could strike over the border. And to strike directly against Indian army targets could be seen as a direct escalation of the conflict. What analysts did agree on was that Pakistan was likely to strike sooner than later  and the longer the wait, the greater the chance of escalation.

To some, the greatest worry of all is that India and Pakistan may have lost the US as a third-party mediator. In their 75 years as neighbours and enemies, Pakistan and India have been brought back from the brink of conflict on multiple occasions by crucial intervention by the US, a country that commands unmatched power and influence on both sides of the border and has always been willing to get its hands dirty in their disputes.

Yet with Donald Trump in charge of the White House, the mood is very different and he has shown little interest in getting involved. Theyve been fighting for a long time. I just hope it ends very quickly, Trump said dismissively, after news of Indias strikes broke.

Siddiqua said that without the US as a powerful, neutral mediator, altercations between the two countries  who are both looking to claim victory  could easily spiral out of control. My worry is that, for the first time, India and Pakistan might be on their own here, she said.
People given infected blood and blood products in one of the worst treatment disasters in NHS history have described anguish felt while waiting for compensation.

The Infected Blood Inquiry has heard that many victims fear they will not live to receive compensation, with people affected by the scandal saying they feel betrayed and disappointed.

But campaigners insisted that they will have justice as hearings reopened into the scandal.

Sir Brian Langstaff, chairman of the Infected Blood Inquiry, is holding two days of special hearings to examine the timeliness and adequacy of the Governments response to compensation.

The Infected Blood Inquiry will hold hearings in May. Follow this link to find out more: https://t.co/Cjvq9krLHy  Infected Blood Inquiry (@bloodinquiry) April 9, 2025

Opening the hearing, Sir Brian said: The decision to hold these further hearings was not taken lightly.

It is no secret that the inquiry has received letter after letter, email after email, call after call, expressing worries and concerns about how compensation is being delivered.

The inquiry will do everything in its power to identify action that can be taken by the Government and by the Infected Blood Compensation Authority to improve the delivery of compensation and to ensure that justice is done.

Cabinet Office minister Nick ThomasSymonds began his evidence by apologising to victims on behalf of the state.

Throughout these past 10 months, it has been a solemn privilege to have the opportunity to listen to the infected blood community, he told the inquiry.

I know many people before me will have suffered unimaginably because of this scandal  I would like to acknowledge that the government has failed you over decades on behalf of the state. I am sorry.

He told the hearing that he is restless for further progress on payments.

Campaigners representing people infected and affected by the scandal gave evidence on Wednesday morning.

Andrew Evans, from the campaign group Tainted Blood, told the hearing: We have around 2,100 members, all of whom are in a desperate state at the moment since the announcement of the Governments compensation package and things that have unfolded since.

Mr Evans, who was infected with HIV and hepatitis C through contaminated blood products during treatment for haemophilia as a child, shared a quote from one of the members of the Tainted Blood group.

Im utterly exhausted, he read.

The anguish is beyond words. I just want this over.

He said that victims have been left feeling betrayed and disappointed, adding: People have given up on any expectation of receiving anything.

They have lost all hope of ever getting justice.

Mr Evans added: We cant be doing this for much longer.

Stress levels of campaigners being at their highest levels since I can remember  none of us want to be here again. I hope that this is the beginning of the end now.

Gary Webster was infected while at Lord Mayors Treloar School and College in Hampshire (Ben Whitley/PA)

Gary Webster, who was infected with HIV and hepatitis C when he attend Lord Mayors Treloar School in Hampshire (Treloars) in the 1970s and 80s, said his experience with the compensation scheme had been a nightmare.

The 60-year-old said: Ive asked around the Trealors boys that are amongst us now and their families about how they think the process is going, and the words they come back with were: Despicable, distraught, hoodwinked, betrayed, hurt, forgotten.

People will not get their compensation and a lot of claims will die with them.

Its just too slow and people wont get the justice they deserve.

Mr Webster urged the Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA) to examine the tariffs paid for unethical research.

Most boys went (to Treloars) for six, eight or 10, years  their experimentation and research wasnt a one-off, it happened daily, weekly, for that period of time.

And I think the insult of 10,000 or 15,000 for that action they did to us is disgraceful.

The report into the infected blood scandal was published in May 2024 (Jeff Moore/PA)

Campaigner Carolyn Challis was infected with hepatitis C when she received blood transfusions during chemotherapy treatment for lymphatic cancer between 1992 and 1993.

The mother-of-three from North Devon said: We feel gaslit, marginalised and abused by successive governments that purport to care, but evidently do not.

Were suffering from sustained trauma. We should not still be fighting.

Ms Challis said that the compensation scheme is not fit for purpose.

The whole scheme should be simplified in order to speed up the roll up of compensation, she said.

The complexities and impossible to jump through hoops that the hepatitis community have been expected to deal with and which are causing extreme stress, anxiety and anger should be removed.

People cannot be expected to be constantly retraumatised, searching for evidence that is unlikely to exist just to prove how very ill they are.

She added: We dont have time on our side or the energy to keep fighting for justice.

Nigel Hamilton, chairman of Haemophilia Northern Ireland, said: We are entitled to justice and we will have justice.

In a message to the IBCA, Mr Hamilton added: Work with us like never before and ensure that we are not just listened to, but we are also heard.

This week were contacting everyone whos infected and registered with an existing support scheme to let them know we have their details for a claim and will be in touch when their claim can begin. We are also asking for anyone who is nearing the end of their life to contact us pic.twitter.com/vA5sQEWCCb  Infected Blood Compensation Authority (@IBCA_UK) April 14, 2025

Alan Burgess, a campaigner who was co-infected with HIV and hepatitis C while receiving treatment for haemophilia, said: I cant believe we are back here today.

He said that the ICBA was playing games with our mental health by sending out invites for people to start their compensation claim each month.

He added: Last year we were all euphoric and all so pleased, but here we are again, and theyre playing games with our mental health and our physical health  theyve got to be made to realise what theyre doing.

Its like trying to nail custard to the wall, you can talk to them but they dont seem to listen.

He also told the hearing victims were dying while the process was ongoing, with one of his friends dying just weeks ago.

Mary Grindley, 76, who has been campaigning for 45 years, called on the compensation authority to set a timeline for payments to estates, adding: Its as though the people who have died have been totally forgotten.

The grandmother gave up teaching in 1991 to look after her husband, John, who contracted HIV and hepatitis C while receiving treatment for haemophilia who died from Aids in 1994 at the age of 41.

Meanwhile, Kate Burt, chief executive of the Haemophilia Society, said there has been a complete disregard for patient voice.

The deep injustice they feel about the way they are being treated has to be addressed, she added.

More than 30,000 people in the UK were infected with HIV and hepatitis C after they were given contaminated blood and blood products between the 1970s and early 1990s.

Some 3,000 people died as a result and survivors are living with lifelong health implications.

In her October budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves allocated 11.8 billion to compensate victims, administered by the IBCA.

The IBCA said that, as of May 6, 677 people have been asked to start their claim and 106 payments have been made, totalling more than 96 million.
Bilal Mosque, after it was hit by an Indian strike in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Photograph: Akhtar Soomro/Reuters

As India launches missile strikes on what it says are camps associated with militant groups inside Pakistan in retaliation for last months massacre in Kashmir, attention has once again focused on Indias claimed relationship between Islamabad and armed groups involved in attacks in the disputed Himalayan region of Kashmir, most prominently Lashkar-e-Taiba.

What is Lashkar-e-Taiba?

Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) is a long-established Islamic salafist militant group founded in 1986 in Pakistan and designated as a terrorist group by many countries. Its 2008 attack on Mumbai killed 166 people, including a number of foreign nationals.

Founded as the armed wing of the Markaz Dawat-ul Irshad, the centre for proselytisation and preaching, LeT emerged during the period of the then Pakistani leader Zia-ul-Haqs policy of Islamisation, which aimed to turn Pakistan into a global centre for political Islam.

Ideologically, LeT expounds a vision of a global Islamic caliphate including the reclamation of lost Islamic lands through the twin efforts of preaching and armed struggle.

The UN security council says LeT has conducted numerous terrorist operations against military and civilian targets since 1993, including attacks on Mumbai commuter trains in July 2006 and a December 2001 attack on Indias parliament.

While the group has focused much of its militant activity in the disputed Himalayan territory of Kashmir, largely because of its proximity to India, LeT has a broader hostility to India.

LeTs emir, Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, who was arrested in 2019 and imprisoned in Pakistan for 31 years for financing terrorism, has long insisted the groups international struggle goes far beyond Kashmir and is aimed at the breakup of India, including a strong element of violent antisemitism as shown in its attack on a Jewish centre during the Mumbai attack.

What is Jaish e-Mohammed?

Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) was founded by Masood Azhar on his release from prison in India in 1999. Pakistan banned the group in 2002 after it, along with LeT, was blamed for the 2001 attack on Indias parliament. The group had links with al-Qaida, founded by Osama bin Laden, and the Taliban, the UN security council has said.

Are Lashkar-e-Taiba and other groups supported by Pakistan?

The relationship between LeT and other Islamist groups and Pakistani institutions, not least the army and Inter-Services Intelligence agency [ISI], is complicated and murky.

While Islamabad has backed armed Islamic groups as proxies in Kashmir and Afghanistan in the past, the present links are more opaque.

Historically, Pakistan saw support for armed groups in the 1980s and 1990s as a successful strategy, not least over the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan.

In a 2012 essay for the Carnegie Endowment for Peace, Ashley Tellis, an international security expert, wrote: From the very beginning, LeT became a favoured ward of the Pakistani state because its local interests  fighting in Afghanistan and warring against India  dovetailed with the Pakistan armys own ambitions: controlling Afghanistan in the west while keeping India off balance in the east.

For over two decades  the ISI maintained strong institutional, albeit subterranean, links with LeT and has supported its operations through generous financing and, as required, combat training.

While LeTs emir denied being behind the Mumbai attack, the jailed US-Pakistani citizen and LeT operative David Headley, who conducted reconnaissance for the 2008 attack, has said he coordinated with Pakistani intelligence officers over the Mumbai attack.

What is less clear is the extent of Pakistani official involvement: whether LeT has been given a long rope to operate without sharing precise details.

While Pakistan strongly denies Indias claims, Pakistans tolerance for groups associated with LeT, despite the jailing of Saeed, undermines its assurances including LeTs rebranding as a charity, Jamaat ud-Dawa (JuD), which the Australian government among others described as indistinguishable from LeT. Lashkar-e-Taiba has also operated under the alias Jamaat ud-Dawa (JuD), which was ostensibly created as a charitable organisation by the Lashkar-e-Tayyiba founder Hafiz Muhammad Saeed immediately prior to Lashkar-e-Tayyiba being banned by the Pakistani government in 2002, it wrote.

In 2018, on the 10th anniversary of the Mumbai attacks, Stephen Tankel of the Center for a New American Security, said: Pakistan makes a cosmetic distinction between Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jamaat-ud-Dawa, but the United States and the United Nations consider them to be the same organization and have designated it as a terrorist group.

What about today?

Experts are less clear about the level of formal Pakistani support for groups such as LeT and Jaish e-Mohammed. Some have suggested the recent political turmoil in Pakistan may have led some members of the army and ISI into a more active role with militant groups, as has previously occurred during times of political instability when state security institutions have felt under threat.

Tankel, however, noted a more complex, long-term dynamic. Close observers of Pakistan have recognised for years now there is another reason: Lashkar-e-Taiba not only abjures launching attacks in Pakistan, but also helps combat groups that do.

It has not only gathered intelligence about anti-state militants  jihadists, as well as separatists in Balochistan  but also helped to neutralise them at times. Lashkar-e-Taiba has also promoted an ideological and theological counter-narrative condemning militant groups that attack the Pakistani state.
Nigel Farage addresses the press at Westminster alongside newly elected Reform UK MP Sarah Pochin. Photograph: Tayfun Salc/ZUMA Press Wire/REX/Shutterstock

Labour MPs have ramped up pressure on the Treasury, calling for an economic reset after the Reform UK surge in the local elections and saying that the economy is stuck in a doom loop.

The warning comes from the influential Labour Growth Group (LGG), a large caucus of loyalist new MPs who have lobbied the government to go further on planning and energy reforms. Its chair said that, without drastic action, the Reform UK leader Nigel Farage was on course to become prime minister.

On Tuesday evening, the cabinet office minister Pat McFadden told Labour MPs they were in the fight of our lives to take on Farage and said it would be a battle for the very future and the heart and soul of our country.

This is the fight of our lives, this is the generational fight in this new political era, he told a private meeting of MPs and peers. He said Labour would take on populist nationalism head on. A new fight is taking shape, he said. Its a fight between our values and a nationalist politics of the right.

The intervention from the Labour Growth Group comes a day after criticism of the government from another faction, the Red Wall group of Northern and Midlands MPs, who called for a break away from Treasury orthodoxy and a rethink of unpopular cuts such as the winter fuel allowance. Another group, Blue Labour, has also called for a stronger drive to reduce immigration, as well as economic reform.

Chris Curtis, the Milton Keynes North MP who chairs the Labour Growth Group, said that the past nine months in power had seen cabinet ministers sometimes acting like caretakers of decline and called for an acceleration of the governments ambition.

Related: Tory extinction cant be ruled out, says Jeremy Hunt  as it happened

Britain is stuck in a complete economic doom loop. Weve had low growth. Thats led to pretty awful cuts. Its led to public services that are broken. And its led to disillusionment and division among the country, he said.

Until we get out of that economic doom loop, Nigel Farage is going to become prime minister. I think the stakes are that high.

He said that Whitehall was hooked on business as usual and will need shock therapy to get off it  No 10 talks about governing as insurgents, but were often behaving like caretakers of decline. They have to be more forceful in driving that culture through the system.

We should be treating the economy as an emergency on the scale of war or the pandemic. The heart of government meeting in the cabinet room every week to smash any obstacle.

His concerns were echoed by the Livingston MP, Gregor Poynton, also a member of LGG, who said that voters needed to see change was still possible. He said: We cannot afford to let stale institutions, cautious regulators, pressure groups or vested interests stand in the way of that.

Joe Powell, the MP for Kenshington and Bayswater, said the government now needed to step up another gear. Its no surprise after years of flatlining wages and living standards people are impatient for change, he said.

If we lose the insurgent mindset of opposition the country will continue to decline, so we need to be brave and accelerate making tough but fair decisions, including massively speeding up housebuilding and agreeing new forms of financing, so people dont wait decades for new hospitals.

Curtis said low wage growth, cost of living pressures and huge funding gaps for schools, hospitals and police meant that people were seeing no real improvements in their towns or living standards.

Unless we start to get the economy growing again, we are not going to get out of this crisis. Farage will rise if wages fall. Its as simple as that, he said. Curtis said departments need to better stand up to vested interests and to stand up to lobby groups. We are now going to have to make often very politically difficult decisions in order to break out of this cycle.

He said it was now clear that Labour had underestimated the scale of the challenge. I think thats probably a fair criticism. But that means that weve got no time to lose in ensuring we break out of this cycle.

But Curtis also said that while the government should tackle high immigration, it would not be the means to beat Farage. Anybody that thinks that bringing down net migration alone is a route to re-election is completely kidding themselves, he said.

Related: No 10 completely tone deaf on harm caused by winter fuel cut, critics say

We could get migration down to zero by the time of the next election, but if people still cant get a GP appointment and theyre feeling poorer, were not going to win the next election.

Jake Richards, the Rother Valley MP who is a member of LGG and the Red Wall group, added: The only way were going to beat Nigel Farage is by getting out of the doom loop we inherited of dire public finances leading to unpopular cuts and low wages. That means reversing over a decade of stagnant growth with ambitious reforms.

Weve had polling recently showing that Reform voters are by far the most financially insecure of all the major parties. Putting money in those peoples pockets is just as essential as robust immigration policy in showing them Labour can deliver.

Key figures in the different Labour groups plan to increase their coordination in the coming weeks to find consensus on how to apply pressure on the government, with talks expected between the groups over the next few weeks.

Top of the list is a renewed drive to pressure reforms to Treasury principles  known as the green book  to force investment outside the south-east of England.

Maurice Glasman, the Labour peer and Blue Labour founder, told an event at Policy Exchange that the Conservative party had been destroyed and the same fate will befall this government unless it moves into the space the Conservatives vacated.

Reform is a working-class insurrection against the progressive ruling class, and the only way to counter it is for the Labour government to lead the insurrection, to celebrate the collapse of the era of globalisation, to embrace the space of Brexit, the renewal of the Commonwealth, the restoration of vocation, the primacy of parliament, the integrity of our peace, the effectiveness of our armed forces, the protection of our borders.
A humongous horror of rain will come, the King jokingly reassured workers during a visit to Londons new super sewer.

Charles visited the Thames Tideway Tunnel on Wednesday to mark the completion of the 10-year project, which is designed to protect the River Thames from sewage pollution well into the future.

The 25km long sewer will intercept, store and ultimately transfer sewage waste away from the Thames with a combined capacity of 1.6 million metres squared.

Charles met construction workers and storemen at the project (Toby Melville/PA)

Tideway said the super sewer will reduce sewage pollution into the river by 95%.Thames Water will then operate the system as part of its London wastewater network.

The King met construction workers and storemen at the project in Embankment, central London, to see first-hand the benefits of the system and see the technology in action.

When told some sewage work is made easier when it rains, he joked: Dont worry, its all going to come in one humongous horror.

The project took 20,000 people eight years to build, costing 4.5 billion, and is one of the largest engineering projects the capital has seen in recent years, stretching from Acton to Beckton.

Charles was given a tour of the project by Andy Mitchell, chief executive of the Thames Tideway Tunnel Project (Toby Melville/PA)

The tunnel is 7.2 metres in diameter, the equivalent of three London double-decker buses, and the two connection tunnels are five and two metres in diameter, respectively.

Four giant tunnelling machines were used to excavate the main super sewer.

During his visit, Charles met poet Dorothea Smartt, whose poetry about the Thames is printed on the sites ventilation columns.

The King asked: Have you done a different poem on each one?

Thames Tideway chief executive Andy Mitchell, who gave the King a tour of the site, said: The King was fascinated with the detail, the quality, the humanity of the space.

The team was absolutely thrilled the King commented on the quality. Theres huge passion here.

The king travelled to the project on the Mars Clipper, an Uber Boat usually used by passengers (Toby Melville/PA)

To get to the site, Charles rode the Mars Clipper, an Uber Boat usually used by passengers into and out of central London.

He waved at a group cheering from a passing boat.

To Uber Boat chief executive Sean Collins, the King asked: Does it (Uber Boat services) go all year round?

The pair laughed about Mr Collins experience rowing on the Thames.
Peter Kyle, the Technology Secretary, is understood to have dropped support for a copyright exemption to help AI companies train their algorithms - Alecsandra Dragoi / DSIT /Crown copyright

Ministers have rowed back on plans to force companies to opt out if they do not want their content used to train artificial intelligence.

The proposal to create a copyright exemption to help AI companies train their algorithms was announced in December, with firms having to actively decide to opt out from this.

The plan sparked anger from artists, musicians and filmmakers, who said it amounted to having their work stolen to feed AI models that could eventually replace them.

Whitehall sources said the Government had now moved away from the opt out model, which was first floated in a consultation with businesses in December.

More complex licensing scheme

Peter Kyle, the Technology Secretary, is understood to have dropped support for that model. He is instead looking at a more complex licensing scheme that could give creators more control over how their work is used.

The licensing system could work in a similar way to current copyright laws, which allow companies to use a small amount of copyrighted work under the so-called fair dealing rules.

A licensing system could allow AI companies to use limited extracts of books, films and music to train their models, in a concession to the artists that created them.

However, ministers are concerned that stricter rules would make the UK an uncompetitive place to develop AI, which would damage the economy.

Sources cautioned against false expectations that the creative industries could be shielded entirely from machine learning.

Artists such as Paul McCartney and Kate Bush came out last year against Labours plans to allow AI companies greater access to copyrighted material.

Along with actors Julianne Moore, Stephen Fry and Hugh Bonneville, they signed a petition that states the unlicensed use of creative works for training generative AI is a major, unjust threat to the livelihoods of the people behind those works, and must not be permitted.

In a joint statement, bodies representing thousands of creatives dismissed the Governments proposal. The Creative Rights in AI Coalition said existing copyright laws must be respected and enforced rather than degraded.

The coalition includes the British Phonographic Industry, the Independent Society of Musicians, the Motion Picture Association and the Society of Authors as well as Mumsnet, The Guardian, Financial Times, The Telegraph, Getty Images, the Daily Mail Group and Newsquest.

The joint statement said: Rights holders do not support the new exception to copyright proposed. In fact, rights holders consider that the priority should be to ensure that current copyright laws are respected and enforceable.

The only way to guarantee creative control and spur a dynamic licensing  and generative AI  market is for the onus to be on generative AI developers to seek permission and engage with rights holders to agree licences.

On Wednesday, Mr Kyles department published a series of amendments to the upcoming Data Bill that would require ministers to conduct an economic impact assessment of their AI plans, and a policy review of the effect on copyright within 12 months.

It has previously been reported that the final rules may not be published until 2029, which creatives say is too late.
Its interesting how times dont change  Huma Bhabha, whose show Encounters: Giacometti is at the Barbican. Photograph: Linda Nylind/The Guardian

Two tonnes of Huma Bhabhas works greet you before you even reach the entrance of her new exhibition at the Barbican in London. They are four powerful ancient-looking giants, with rough-hewn surfaces, gouged and blackened (the effect achieved by first carving in cork, then casting in patinated bronze). With their enormous skull heads towering above you, baring pincers and rows of teeth, its as if youve stumbled on the set for an apocalyptic sci-fi film. It seems theyre suddenly here, as if theyve just come out of the elevator, Bhabha says affectionately.

Bhabha is here to install her work alongside 10 sculptures by Alberto Giacometti, her first public display in the UK since 2020. Encounters: Giacometti is the first in a three-part exhibition series organised with the Giacometti Foundation, bringing contemporary artists  Bhabha being the first  into dialogue with the 20th-century Swiss sculptor in a brand new gallery at the Barbican, once the centres brasserie. Its a bright L-shaped space on the second floor with wide views across the Barbican estates dyed-green waters.

Bhabha first encountered Giacomettis work as an undergraduate at Rhode Island School of Design. Years later, when she made her first artwork sales, a Giacometti book was the first thing she bought with the money. I was nervous of course to be in the same room with Giacometti, Bhabha confesses, as we sit on the terrace talking, her works looking down on us. But the works seem to be compatible, theyre enjoying each others company.

Encounters: Giacometti emphasises the shared sensibilities between the two artists: angry, angsty figures that evoke a sense of ruin, destruction and existential anxiety; rough, urgently worked surfaces; stretched, fragmented and dismembered body parts  harbingers of desolation in a horrible reality. Giacomettis work was like that because of what he had experienced and the times he lived in, and Im also aware of similar things. Its interesting how times dont change, Bhabha says. Its the world we live in, its full of death. The amount of manmade destruction can really overpower you. It is hard to get away from it.

There is synergy between their ideas and responses to the horrors of the world, but the results are often radically different: Bhabhas dense, furious, cataclysmic; Giacomettis awkward, vulnerable, delicate. Both artists crib classical poses from traditional sculpture: standing, seated, and reclining figures, but experiment with non-traditional expressions for them, merging the human form with all the other stuff that surrounds life. As Giacometti once put it: I dont sculpt people, I sculpt solitude.

Though Bhabha has long acknowledged Giacometti as an influence, Im not interested in re-doing another artists work. Its an absorbed kind of influence  I might think of him when Im making a nose, or a head, or opening up a chest cavity. I am very attracted to the way he applies the clay and his mark-marking, which is almost graffiti-like.

Bhabha grew up in Karachi, Pakistan, and moved to the US to study art, encouraged by her parents  her mother was a talented but unrecognised artist and Bhabha grew up surrounded by her paintings and drawings at home. She initially trained as a painter and printmaker, but in the 1990s after graduating began to put found objects together into three-dimensional pieces. Even now technically my work is assemblage, I put different objects together from different places, and somehow they feel they have always been together.

After 13 years living in New York, Bhabha and her husband (the artist Jason Fox) moved upstate to the more affordable Poughkeepsie, a small town in the Hudson River Valley region, where she still lives. When she first moved there, she worked for two years as a finisher for a taxidermist. It proved to be an important time. The way they construct their dioramas and build armatures was very influential on my work at that point. I adapted how they used chickenwire and built armatures with wood. She also amassed a collection of skulls, horns, and bones destined for the dump that still appear in her works today. They thought it was funny that I collected that stuff.

Ive been collecting stuff for a long time  I dont go out looking for a specific thing, I have a lot of chunks of wood, pieces of rusted metal, Im very attracted to stuff like that. In America you find all kinds of things  people just take off their clothes and leave them there. This mashup of materials is what gives Bhabhas work its contemporary beat, while still incorporating traditional bronze, plaster, terracotta and clay. A pair of black rubber boots she found abandoned behind her first home in Poughkeepsie became the earliest work included in the Barbican show: a sculpture made for her first solo exhibition in 2004. The artist recently purchased it back at an auction. To the thick, industrial boots she added truncated legs, sculpted intuitively with foam spray then plaster, painted in contrasting skin tones. The boots appear to levitate on a raised plexi platform; under the feet is a remnant of a carpet from her childhood home in Pakistan. Its very much about being in love.

My work is very emotional and emotive, Bhabha says. A work titled Special Guest Star lies on a tilted platform. It too represents a body, reclining or crawling up from the ground along a plywood plank. Its head consists of the inside of deers horns (from the taxidermy days), the body is Bhabhas old scrunched-up T-shirt. In a nod to Jasper Johns a paintbrush is intended as a vagina; ornamental tin scraps a roof are slippers. Im trying to make my own language.

A large seated figure, Mask of Dimitrios, almost collides with the low ceiling. Its clay legs are a direct reference to Giacomettis mottled, pock-marked textures; two plastic bags are suspended in a void where the chest should be. Initially I thought of them as breasts, but they also could be lungs. Its humorous, and gnarly, but Bhabha has become the queen of the grotesque. I dont see the grotesque as a negative, its fine! The mask-like face is in fact a mould for a different work, salvaged from the foundry which cast Bhabhas sculptures. Works are often spawned from each other, adding to the unpredictable evolution of Bhabhas work.

Another important reference for Bhabha is cinema  especially the handcrafted special effects of 1980s horror films, though she doesnt like camp. Sci-fi and horror is a genre Ive enjoyed most of my life, I guess I have a high tolerance for it  and theres not much else to do where I live. Its all CGI now which is OK, but theres a bit of that density lost, it feels hollow. Her monstrous, hybrid forms are freighted with heated desires and dark humour, collecting in serried layers of materials. Its an intense viewing experience. You might find it scary or too confrontational, but youre still attracted to it, you cant just walk away from it  thats important for me, to keep you coming back.

 Huma Bhabha, Encounters: Giacometti is at the Barbican, London, from 8 May to 10 August
8 May 2025 at 0:33 am

Donald Trumps administration has deported 152,000 people in its crackdown on immigration - AKGS/Copyright  2025 BACKGRID UK

Donald Trumps administration is trying to deport migrants to Libya.

Two US officials said the US military could fly the migrants to the North African country as soon as Wednesday.

Libya said it would not accept any deportation flights.

The relatives of a Mexican national told Reuters he had been told to sign a document allowing for his deportation to the African nation.

When asked about the plans, Mr Trump said he did not know whether that was happening. I dont know. Youll have to ask Homeland Security, he said.

A State Department spokesman said: We do not discuss the details of our diplomatic communications with other governments.

No coordination with US

A spokesman for Libyas government said there was no coordination with the United States regarding the reception of migrants.

Khalifa Haftars Libyan national army, which controls eastern Libya, said taking US deportees would violate the sovereignty of the homeland.

Mr Trump, who has made immigration a major issue during his election campaign, has launched aggressive enforcement action since taking office, sending troops to the southern border and pledging to deport millions of immigrants in the US illegally.

As of Monday, the Trump administration has deported 152,000 people, according to Department of Homeland Security.

The administration has tried to encourage migrants to leave voluntarily by threatening steep fines, trying to strip away legal status, and deporting migrants to notorious prisons in Guantanamo Bay and El Salvador.
Top technology firms are set to meet with the Justice Secretary for the first time to look at how artificial intelligence and technology could be used to tackle violence in prisons and cut re-offending.

Shabana Mahmood is urging companies including Microsoft, Amazon Web Services and Google to work with ministers as part of Government plans to use technology to overhaul the justice system.

Using data to help probation officers improve risk assessments and tracking offenders in the community are among some of the aspects to be considered.

Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood (Danny Lawson/PA)

How digital platforms could help rehabilitate offenders and help them integrate back into society is also on the agenda for ministers and around 30 companies meeting on Thursday.

The move follows a pledge from the Lord Chancellor to introduce technology to stop probation staff drowning in paperwork when more time could be spent supervising offenders.

Meanwhile, the backlog of crown court cases also stands at a record high.

Ms Mahmood said: We inherited a justice system in crisis, with prisons close to collapse and staff overburdened and under pressure.

We need bold ideas to address the challenges that we face  supporting our staff, delivering swifter justice for victims, and cutting crime.

Today, we have an analogue justice system in a digital age.

The UK has a world-leading and growing tech sector, and I know our tech firms have a huge role to play in delivering our Plan for Change to make streets safer.

Julian David, chief executive of trade association TechUK  which co-organised the event, said the roundtable presents an excellent opportunity for the tech sector to showcase the transformative role technology can play in modernising the criminal justice system.

After the meeting, a follow-up event for the whole industry to apply to present their ideas is expected in the coming months.

Microsofts UK public sector general manager Amanda Sleight said: Microsoft is committed to advancing the ethical use of AI technology to reduce the administrative burden on prison and probation staff, allowing them more time to focus on delivering high-quality frontline services, reducing recidivism and helping integrate offenders back into society.

The Conservatives suggested the Governments plans were not even close to being enough to reform the justice system.

Shadow justice minister Kieran Mullan said: After 14 years in opposition, Labour still have no answers beyond putting criminals back out on to the streets and soon will be scrapping short sentences for offenders  this announcement is not even close to being enough.

Labour are clearly out of their depth.
Therouxs documentary aims to shine a light on radical members of the Jewish settler community in the occupied West Bank - Josh Baker

An activist who featured in Louis Therouxs BBC documentary about the West Bank has allegedly had his home raided in revenge for his participation in the film.

Issa Amro was one of the Palestinians featured in Therouxs controversial documentary, The Settlers, which sought to shine a light on radical members of the Jewish settler community and violence perpetrated towards nearby Palestinians.

The film, which aired in late April, follows the scandal of another BBC documentary Gaza, How to Survive a Warzone, which was revealed to have used the son of a Hamas minister as a narrator.

Mr Amro said that his home was raided by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) over the weekend and that his son had been harassed by members of the settler community.

He said that Israeli soldiers appeared at his Hebron home, in the southern West Bank, without a warrant and attacked him, a friend, and damaged his property.

A spokesman for the IDF said soldiers had acted to disperse a confrontation between Palestinian residents and Israeli civilians.

Oscar-winner arrested

Since the beginning of the war which followed the Oct 7 massacre in 2023, IDF personnel in the West Bank are more likely to come from settler communities.

In March, Hamdan Ballal, who won the Oscar for Best Documentary for his portrayal of settler violence in the West Bank, was allegedly beaten by local settlers before being arrested and humiliated by the IDF  although the army said they had arrested local Palestinians for acts of violence.

He claimed he heard soldiers mention the Oscar during the alleged ordeal.

Mr Amro said: Its very dangerous to speak out about the things I talk about. My friends warn me all the time, Issa, youre going to get yourself killed.

But I am afraid about the future. Its getting more dangerous here. I felt it was really important to be a part of this.

Teenage son harassed

The new BBC film is a follow-up to Therouxs 2011 documentary The Ultra-Zionists.

In it, he interviewed Daniella Weiss, known as the godmother of the settler movement, which seeks to develop Jewish communities in areas outside the internationally recognised boundary of Israel.

Some in Israel and the international Jewish community have said it gives a one-sided impression of the settler movement and the violence in the West Bank.

Since the broadcast of the documentary, Mr Amro has reported experiencing harassment, which included being needlessly forced to go through police metal detectors multiple times at security checkpoints.

He also claimed that, last Friday, settlers approached his 13-year-old son near the family home and attempted to forcibly take him towards a settlement.

Israeli Police said: In general, any incident brought to our attention is reviewed according to police procedures and the law.

The Israel Police remains committed to maintaining public order and ensuring the safety and rights of all individuals.
New claims have been made about Christian Brueckner over possible links to the disappearance of Madeleine McCann. (AP) (Julian Stratenschulte, Associated Press)

New evidence links a convicted child abuser to the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, according to claims made in a new documentary.

Christian Brueckner, was named as the prime suspect in Madeleines disappearance in 2020 by German police but no charges have been brought against him.

But The Sun claims to have discovered new evidence against Brueckner  including a hard drive from his home that contains photos that are said to be crucial in proving Madeleine is dead.

Madeleine McCann was three when she disappeared while on holiday in Portugal. (PA)

Other evidence reported to be in The Sun's investigation, shared in a Channel 4 documentary Maddie: The Unseen Evidence, due to be aired on Wednesday night, includes childrens clothes and toys, photographs of children and a satnav showing Brueckners movements after Madeleine disappeared in 2007.

Yahoo News UK has contacted Brueckners lawyers for a response.

Who is Christian Brueckner?

Brueckner, 48, is a German national and convicted sex offender who is also a prime suspect in the 2007 disappearance of British toddler Madeleine McCann.

Named as a suspect by German authorities in June 2020, Brueckner has a long criminal history but has not been charged in connection with Madeleines case and denies any involvement.

Brueckner began his criminal activities at 15 with a 1992 burglary conviction in Wuerzburg and his record includes over a dozen convictions, notably for sexually abusing a youth as a teenager, for which he served an 18-month sentence.

Christian Brueckner is currently in prison for raping a pensioner. (PA) (Uncredited, Associated Press)

In 2019 he was convicted for the 2005 rape of a 72-year-old US woman in Praia da Luz, Portugal, for which he is serving seven years in Sehnde Prison, with a release expected in September 2025. The rape took place in the same area where Madeleine disappeared while on holiday with her family.

In October 2024, he was acquitted of three counts of aggravated rape and two counts of sexual abuse of children, alleged to have occurred in Portugal between 2000 and 2017.

His defence team pointed to a lack of evidence but German prosecutors have linked Brueckner to Madeleines disappearance through phone records placing him in the area on the evening she vanished.

A former friend, Helge B, claimed that Brueckner confessed to his involvement in Madeleines disappearance, telling a trial in Germany that Brueckner told him she didnt scream. However, his credibility has been questioned and Brueckner has referred to his claims as "not even worthy of comment".

The investigation into Madeleines disappearance remains ongoing.

What happened to Madeleine McCann?

On 3 May 2007, three-year-old Madeleine disappeared from her familys holiday apartment in Praia da Luz, Portugal. The toddler, from Rothley, Leicestershire, was on holiday with her parents, Kate and Gerry McCann, and her younger twin siblings.

The McCanns left the children asleep in the unlocked ground-floor apartment at the Ocean Club resort while they dined with friends at a tapas restaurant roughly 50m away, checking on the children every half hour.

Madeleine McCann went missing from Praia de Luz, Portugal, in 2007. (PA) (Mirrorpix, Trinity Mirror / Mirrorpix)

Kate and Gerry McCann have never given up hope of finding their daughter. (Getty) (AFP via Getty Images)

At around 9pm, Gerry McCann found Madeleine sleeping. By 10pm, Kate McCann discovered Madeleine gone, the bedroom window open, and the shutter raised.

The disappearance became global news and sparked a major investigation. However, years of searches and theories proved fruitless and no trace of Madeleine was ever found.

In 2008, Portuguese authorities ended their investigation, while Scotland Yard launched a review of the case in 2011 after a request from then home secretary Theresa May. This became known as Operation Grange.

In 2012  five years after Madeleine disappeared  Scotland Yard maintained that she could still be alive and released a picture showing how she might look as a nine-year-old.

A photo was released of what Madeleine McCann may look like as a nine-year-old. (Getty) (LEON NEAL via Getty Images)

Two years later, British police flew to Portugal amid claims they planned to make arrests, and fresh searches took place close to where Madeleine went missing.

In 2020, an apparent breakthrough came when German authorities named Brueckner as the prime suspect, with phone records placing him nearby the night that Madeleine disappeared.

Operation Grange remains active, and last month ministers approved 108,000 in additional funding for Scotland Yard detectives.

It is understood one detective chief inspector, one detective constable and one member of police staff are working on the investigation.

The total funding given to Operation Grange has been more than 13.2m since 2011.
The Venera-8, which is thought to be identical to the Kosmos 482 Capsule

A Cold War-era spacecraft will come crashing down to Earth this weekend but nobody quite knows where.

The Soviet Unions Kosmos 482 probe launched in 1972, bound for Venus, but suffered a rocket malfunction and ended up trapped in orbit around Earth.

Its orbit has been gradually degrading over time as the spacecraft is pulled down by gravity, and it is expected to enter the atmosphere this weekend.

Kosmos 482 was fortified to withstand the extreme conditions on the surface of Venus, which has temperatures of 477 C and pressure over 90 times that of Earths.

This means that the capsule, which is roughly one metre in diameter and weighs 495kg, will probably reach the ground intact.

But the probes eccentric orbit, coupled with space weather, means nobody is quite sure when and where it will land.

Current best estimates is that the spacecraft will land at 6am GMT on Saturday May 10 somewhere in the Western hemisphere.

A team of researchers from University College London, the

University of Colorado Boulder and Space Environment Technologies, are working to predict precisely when and where Kosmos 482 will land, and hope to have an answer a day or two before impact.

It will likely land in the ocean

Dr Marcin Pilinski, a research scientist at the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) at the University of Colorado Boulder, said: The odds that this relic will land in a populated area are very low, it will very likely land in the ocean. But we cant yet say for certain where that will be.

People who monitor asteroids to see if they will potentially impact Earth actually have an easier job. Those objects would enter at a really steep angle. Theyre not skimming part of the atmosphere for days or weeks like this spacecraft.

Space junk and meteors regularly plummet through Earths atmosphere but most burn up or disintegrate on entry posing little risk. But the extra strong casing on Kosmos 482 means researchers are more worried than usual.

Dr Jonathan McDowell, an astrophysicist and astronomer at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, said: You wouldnt want it bashing you on the head.

Several pieces from the spacecraft fell to Earth in 1972, landing on fields in Ashburton, New Zealand, where they scorched holes in cropland and made deep indentations in the soil. However, nobody was injured.

Researchers say they should be able to narrow down their estimates of where the probe will crash about 24 to 48 hours before it hits Earth. As well as monitoring the spacecraft itself, experts need to keep an eye on weather near the planets surface which can also send disturbances upwards, creating waves and ripples in low-Earth orbit.

Solar storms can release intense bursts of energy that can cause our planets atmosphere to inflate like a balloon, altering the path of objects passing through it.

Dr Shaylah Mutschler, the director of the space weather division for the company Space Environment Technologies, said: Kosmos 482 was supposed to escape the sphere of influence of Earth, but it didnt quite do enough to get out and its been slowing down ever since.

About a day out, we should know with a reasonable amount of certainty whether theres going to be a solar storm affecting Earth or if the atmospheric conditions are going to continue to be quiet, which allows us to make predictions with much more certainty.

While it is posing a slight risk now, researchers say that Kosmos 482 has been extremely useful over the years, because its unusual orbit allowed scientists to observe tiny changes in its motion to estimate whats happening in that region of space and improve space weather models.

It even contributes information to the US Space Forces orbit forecasts, which help to avoid collisions in low-Earth orbit.

Charles Constant, a researcher from UCL Civil, Environmental & Geomatic Engineering, who is conducting the analysis of the spacecrafts descent, said: Understanding space weather is becoming increasingly critical, as companies across the globe launch more satellites into orbit.

With congestion in low-Earth orbit increasing, one collision could spell disaster for everyone else.
An elk in the taiga in Varmland, Sweden. The species thrives in wetlands, where its grazing helps promote the natural regeneration of woodland. Photograph: Arterra Picture Library/Alamy

Elk could return to the UK after 3,000 years under plans by the Wildlife Trusts to reintroduce the keystone species into Britains landscapes.

The Derbyshire Wildlife Trust wants to introduce elk into two existing beaver enclosures in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, with the hope of demonstrating that the large semiaquatic deer should be released to roam free in the wild.

Joanne Carnell, from Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, said they hoped to demonstrate that the crucial ecosystem engineer can thrive in floodplain landscapes, shaping diverse habitats that benefit communities and support biodiversity recovery. It may also serve as a catalyst for engaging people in the long-term benefits of returning elk to the wild.

Related: Nature nurture: the Devon estate where rewilding and mental health go hand in hand

The same process was followed with beavers in England, which were first released into enclosures in wildlife areas around the country, before being legally released into the wild this year for the first time.

The charity Rewilding Britain is awarding up to 15,000 to multiple rewilding initiatives, including the elk project and some that aim to restore bison and beavers to the landscape.

Rebecca Wrigley, the chief executive of Rewilding Britain, said: Keystone species like elk, bison and beaver play a vital role in bringing nature back to life. They help repair ecosystems and shape wild places in ways that benefit wildlife, people and the climate.

Successfully reintroducing missing species like these is absolutely crucial. Its a complex process involving multiple stages of research and development, feasibility studies, impact assessments and community consultations. By taking the time and effort to get it right, we can create a more hopeful future for everyone.

European elk (known as moose in North America) can weigh up to 700kg (110 stone). They thrive in wetlands, where their grazing helps promote the natural regeneration of woodland, while their trampling helps maintain open clearings. At present, the UK has no wetland habitats containing both beaver and elk.

Elk became extinct in the UK about 3,000 years ago as a result of over-hunting and habitat loss, and were nearly wiped out across Europe, too. But they are slowly making a return, with established populations in Scandinavia.

Rachel Bennett, the deputy director of wilder landscapes at Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, said: This exciting project could demonstrate how this crucial ecosystem engineer can thrive in floodplain landscapes, shaping diverse habitats that benefit communities and support biodiversity recovery. It may also serve as a catalyst for engaging people in the long-term benefits of returning elk to the wild.

 This article was amended on 13 May 2025. Owing to wording introduced during editing, an earlier version said that European elk are closely related to the North American moose; in fact, they are the same species, Alces alces.
Yahoo UK's poll of the week lets you vote and indicate your strength of feeling on one of the week's hot topics. After the poll closes, we'll publish and analyse the results each Friday, giving readers the chance to see how polarising a topic has become and if their view chimes with other Yahoo UK readers.

Reform UK celebrated historic local election victories on 2 May. (Getty) (Lia Toby via Getty Images)

As Reform UK celebrates its latest successes in the local elections, speculation is rife about what its growth in popularity could mean for the party and its political fortunes.

Both the Labour and Conservative parties were left bruised by the 1 May elections, with Labour losing the previously safe Runcorn and Helsby constituency in a byelection and almost 200 councillors, while the Tories lost more than 600 councillors along with control of all 15 local authorities.

Many of those losses came at the hands of Reform UK, which won more than 600 council seats and took control of 10 local authorities.

Nigel Farage hailed Reform UK's gains as "unprecedented" and said it was "the end of two-party politics".

In the wake of the results, health secretary Wes Streeting said Reform is a real threat to Labour and is being treated as a serious opposition force, although the government's decision to cut winter fuel payments has also been cited as putting off voters.

Some are predicting that Reform UK could win at the next general election, or at least become the opposition. (Getty) (JUSTIN TALLIS via Getty Images)

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch previously said the Tories would come out fighting to try to regain public support, but also that they would not rush policy proposals.

She also ruled out resurrecting former prime minister Rishi Sunaks proposal to reintroduce national service, following reports that some MPs had suggested the move.

With speculation rife about what last week's local election results mean for politics, and specifically Reform UK, Yahoo News UK is asking what you think.

For some, the result is indicative that Reform could win the next general election, or at least become the opposition party.

However, others think the party's support will decline, and historically some have described Reform as a protest vote for those who are unhappy with the other major parties. Indeed, while people may vote a certain way in local elections, it does not mean they will do the same in a general election.

Or perhaps you have an entirely different view on Reform's local elections success and want to share it.

Pick the choice that is closest to your view in our poll below.

Scottish parliament next?

Reform UK's victories are being seen by some as a sign of what could happen in next year's Scottish election. Scotland will go to the polls in May next year for the Scottish parliament elections.

Polling expert Sir John Curtice said the party's gains in last weeks local elections are probably bad news for Scottish Labour and the Conservatives, because Nigel Farages party is primarily taking votes from the first ministers opponents.

Speaking to the BBCs Good Morning Scotland radio programme on Monday, Curtice said the results from last Thursday show there is no reason to disbelieve the message from opinion polls about Reforms level of support.

In the wake of Reform's gains, Scottish first minister John Swinney said there is a very real possibility that Nigel Farage could be the UKs next prime minister, adding: It makes me very fearful of what lies ahead.

Come back on Friday to read the results via the link below.

Read more of Yahoo UK's Poll of the Week articles
More than a thousand beacons and several hundred lamp lights of peace are expected to be lit across the UK to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

Communities throughout the UK, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man are encouraged to take part in the commemoration to recreate the jubilant scenes of May 8, 1945, when people up and down the country lit hundreds of bonfires and beacons as the celebrations following the news of the German surrender went on into the night.

A gold-plated lamp light made especially for the 80th anniversary of VE Day will be carried into St Pauls Cathedral and blessed by the Dean, before being taken to Tower Bridge where its flame will be used to illuminate the central London landmark.

Bruno Peek lighting a beacon on the tower of St Jamess Church in Clerkenwell Green, London (PA)

Bruno Peek, pageant master of the commemoration, said the flames from the beacons and lights symbolise peace and remember the millions of lives lost to war.

In my personal view, we need to use every opportunity possible to promote peace with the way the world is going at the moment, he told the PA news agency.

People from all walks of life who are unable to light beacons can take part by lighting a lamp light of peace, with the flames from the lamp lights and the beacons representing the light of peace that emerged from the darkness of war.

Beacons were one of the earliest forms of communication and were mainly used to spread warnings of danger, but people started to use them to celebrate historical events during the reign of Queen Victoria, Mr Peek said.

He added: The other reason for the lamp light of peace is because, once theyve been used for this occasion, they can then be used to commemorate the end of war.

So, they can also be relit on the 11th of November at 11am for many years to come, again in remembrance of those who sacrificed so much for our freedom.

Queen Elizabeth II, accompanied by her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, lit the first of more than 200 beacons to commemorate the 70th anniversary of VE Day at Windsor Castle (PA)

The beacons and lights will not only be lit to commemorate human lives that were lost, but also to remember the millions of animals taken from family homes and farms to aid Allied forces during the Second World War.

Mr Peek said: Animals played a special part in the war.

It is important that we remember, of course, human beings, but animals that played their part as well.

Mr Peek designed the special lamp light which he will carry into St Pauls Cathedral, accompanied by two of the Kings Watermen and Lightermen, for the VE Day anniversary service at 5pm on May 8.

The lamp light made by Ottewill Silversmiths consists of a central gold-plated brass lantern, sat on a specially made cushion of red velvet with gold braiding and tassels.

The lamp is also surrounded by two rings of sterling silver barbed wire to represent the two world wars, and a sterling silver and part gold-plated crown.

Mr Peek said: I wanted the crown to represent King and country, because thats what it was in World War Two  it was King.

Its quite ironic that we have a King for the 80th anniversary.

At the end of the service, the lamp will be blessed on the Great West Steps of St Pauls Cathedral by the Dean of St Pauls Andrew Tremlett.

The lamp will then be taken up the Thames to Tower Bridge, where it will be used to light the principal beacon.

Mr Peek said: When the fuse is lit from the flame, it will then trigger off the whole lighting of Tower Bridge.

Its going to be an amazing sight.
Soldiers stand guard at a mosque damaged by a suspected Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan controlled Kashmir. (AP) (M.D. Mughal, Associated Press)

India and Pakistan have been urged to show restraint as the government urged British nationals in the countries to stay up to date with travel advice.

India has launched attacks on what it describes as terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistani-controlled Kashmir, escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed enemies.

In the worst fighting in more than two decades between the two nations, India said it struck infrastructure used by militants linked to last months massacre of tourists in the Indian-controlled portion of Kashmir.

On Wednesday, Foreign Office minister Hamish Falconer told MPs that de-escalation between the two countries is of the utmost importance, not least given the large numbers of British nationals in the region.

He added: The safety of British nationals will always be our priority. Overnight, we have issued factual updates to our travel advice for both India and Pakistan, updating British nationals on military activity and potential disruption to flights in the region.

British nationals in both India and Pakistan should stay up to date with our travel advice and follow the advice of the local authorities.

His comments came shortly after foreign secretary David Lammy urged India and Pakistan to show restraint and engage in direct dialogue amid the escalating hostilities.

Despite India insisting they targeted terrorist infrastructure, Islamabad said six Pakistani locations were targeted, and that none of them were militant camps. A Pakistan military spokesperson claimed that at least 26 civilians were killed and 46 injured.

India has blamed Pakistan for backing the attack on tourists last month but Islamabad has denied the accusation.

(1/n) Dear @globaltimesnews , we would recommend you verify your facts and cross-examine your sources before pushing out this kind of dis-information. https://t.co/xMvN6hmrhe  India in China (@EOIBeijing) May 7, 2025

State-run Pakistan Television, quoting security officials, said the countrys air force shot down five Indian jets in retaliation but provided no additional detail. However, India has seemingly denied the claims and labelled them disinformation.

Responding to a post from the Chinese state tabloid, The Global Times, that reported on the downed jets, the Indian Embassy in Beijing wrote on X: Dear @globaltimesnews , we would recommend you verify your facts and cross-examine your sources before pushing out this kind of disinformation.

Read more from our media partners below or click the headlines to skip ahead:

> Pakistan 'shoots down jets' and decries 'act of war'

> Did Pakistan really shoot down five Indian fighter jets?

> UK warns against travel to parts of India and Pakistan

> Panic in Kashmirs border villages

> What next for nuclear-armed India and Pakistan?

> Tensions are at their worst - the world should be worried

Pakistan 'shoots down jets' and decries 'act of war'

Part of an aircraft lies on the ground in Wuyan village in the Himalaya region of Kashmir. (Getty) (NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Pakistan claimed it shot down several Indian fighter jets in retaliation as two planes fell onto villages in India-controlled Kashmir

Pakistans prime minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned Wednesdays airstrikes and said the deceitful enemy has carried out cowardly attacks and that his country would retaliate.

Pakistan has every right to give a robust response to this act of war imposed by India, and a strong response is indeed being given, Sharif said.

Did Pakistan really shoot down five Indian fighter jets?

According to Pakistans defence ministry, five Indian jets were shot down overnight, including three Rafales, and a Russian-made Su-30 and Mig-29. New Delhi has not officially responded to the claims.

In the early hours after the attack, images of previous Indian fighter jet crashes were circulated on Pakistani social media as proof of a successful counter-strike. One, from a 2021 crash, showed the smoking tail of a Mig-29 jet.

But within hours, reports of jet crashes were corroborated from the ground. Local government sources told Reuters that three Indian jets had indeed crashed inside Indian-controlled Kashmir.

UK warns against travel to parts of India and Pakistan

Britons have been advised not to travel to parts of India and Pakistan following a deadly escalation in conflict between the two nations

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office updated its travel advice for the region, warning against all travel within 10 kilometres of the India-Pakistan border, 10 miles of the Line of Control (the de facto border that divides disputed Kashmir between the two countries) and the Balochistan province of Pakistan.

Panic in Kashmirs border villages

A soldier stands guard on the rooftop of a mosque damaged near Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan controlled Kashmir. (AP) (M.D. Mughal, Associated Press)

For days, residents living on both sides of the volatile border between India and Pakistan, dividing the disputed region of Kashmir, had been bracing themselves for war.

After India accused Pakistan of involvement in a terrorist attack which killed 26 people, and vowed to retaliate with military might, locals knew a confrontation between the two countries could take place at any moment.

In Indian-administered Kashmir, residents living in border villages had been preparing bunkers and stocking up supplies. At around 1am on Wednesday, the whistle of missiles overhead and the shuddering boom of explosions over the border alerted them that Indian strikes on Pakistan had begun.

What next for nuclear-armed India and Pakistan?

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members on a protest seeking immediate identification and deportation of Pakistani nationals from West Bengal following a terror attack. (Getty) (Hindustan Times via Getty Images)

Shortly after launching military strikes on nine sites in Pakistan, India declared that justice had been done.

It had chosen revenge following a massacre of Indian tourists in Kashmir in April by terrorists, for which it blamed Islamabad.

As the world anxiously watches the clashes, the question remains: how far will this escalation go and might this be war between two nuclear armed adversaries?

For all the martial messaging from Delhi, careful language has pointed not to open runaway conflict, but to a history of tit-for-tat action and managed confrontations.

Tensions are at their worst - the world should be worried

The world needs to fear the increased tensions between these two nuclear-armed neighbours with decades of hostility.

It had been building up to a confrontation, the anger was just too much to be contained

The tensions between two nuclear-armed neighbours with decades of hostility and mistrust are at their worst.
It is understood that the Israeli embassy in Kensington was the target of a planned attack - LEFTERIS PITARAKIS

The Israeli embassy was the target of an alleged Iranian terror plot, The Telegraph understands.

Five men, including four Iranian nationals, were arrested at locations across England on Saturday in what the Home Secretary described as one of the biggest counter-terror operations in recent years.

It is understood that the Israeli embassy in Kensington, west London, was the target of a planned attack.

It is believed the suspected terror cell was hours from unleashing the attack when the men were arrested.

Counter-terror police arrested a further three Iranian men in London over the weekend as part of a separate operation, fearing they would leave the UK or destroy critical evidence against them after the other raids.

They were arrested under powers granted by the National Security Act, which allows officers to make arrests if they reasonably suspect individuals of being involved in foreign power threat activity.

The alleged use of Iranian nationals in an overseas terror plot would represent a significant shift in approach, as Tehran usually prefers to hire criminal proxies to operate on its behalf.

It was reported on Wednesday night that asylum hotels were raided as part of the operation.

More than 20 plots foiled

On Tuesday Dan Jarvis, the security minister, refused to give details of the immigration status of the arrested men when pressed by several MPs in the House of Commons.

There are very strict limitations on what ministers can say at this point, he said.

The Home Office would not comment on the claims.

Scotland Yard counter-terror specialists and MI5 have helped foil more than 20 alleged Iran-backed terror plots in the UK since January 2022.

In December 2023, Magomed-Husejn Dovtaev, 31, from Chechnya, was found guilty of carrying out hostile reconnaissance on the headquarters of Iran International, a Persian-language television channel based in west London.

In March last year, Pouria Zeraati, a journalist with Iran International, was stabbed by two men near his home in south-west London. Two Romanian men have been charged in connection with the attack.

Israeli embassies targeted

Swedens security agency warned Iran may have been involved in an attack on the Israeli embassies in Stockholm and Copenhagen, Denmark.

On Sunday, Iranian-backed Houthi militia attacked Israels main international airport with what they claimed was a hypersonic missile that left a huge crater in the ground and injured eight people.

The same day, there were renewed calls for Labour to proscribe Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Despite having pledged in opposition to ban the organisation, Labour has yet to do so.

Nigel Farage, the Reform UK leader, said: The IRGC should have been proscribed years ago, without a shadow of a doubt. Friends of mine who live in the Middle East are astonished we havent done it.

The Telegraph understands Foreign Office officials previously opposed such a move as it would prevent back-channel discussions between the UK and Iran.

Police forensic officers search a house in Rochdale - Ryan Jenkinson/Getty Images

Irans foreign minister has since categorically denied reports linking Iranian nationals to the alleged plans to target the Israeli embassy.

In a post on X, Seyed Abbas Araghchi rejected reports of Iranian citizens involvement.

Iran in no uncertain terms categorically rejects any involvement in such actions and confirms that we have not been informed of any allegations via proper diplomatic channels, he said.

Iran has urged the UK to engage so that we may assist any probe into credible allegations. Timing and lack of engagement suggest that something is amiss.

Mr Araghchi said there had been a history of third parties bent on derailing diplomacy and provoking escalation resorting to desperate measures, including false flag operations.

Iran stands ready to engage to shed light on what has truly transpired, and we reiterate that UK authorities should afford our citizens due process, he continued.

Ask the public to remain vigilant

Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Mets counter-terrorism command, said: There are significant operational reasons why we cannot provide further information at this time.

As soon as possible we will look to share further details and in the meantime we would ask the public to remain vigilant and contact us if you have any concerns.

The five arrested were a 29-year-old man in the Swindon area, a 46-year-old man in west London, a 29-year-old man in the Stockport area, a 40-year-old man in the Rochdale area and a 24-year-old man in the Manchester area.

The first four men were arrested on suspicion of preparation of a terrorist act, contrary to section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006, while the fifth was detained under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act.

Iran was the first foreign power to be listed on the top level of the foreign influence registration scheme (Firs) earlier this year, aimed at protecting the UK from malign foreign influence.

It means anyone who is directed by the regime to carry out activities in the UK must declare it or face five years in prison once the scheme comes into force in July.
A mobile artillery unit fires towards Gaza - Amir Cohen/REUTERS

It is easy to lose count of the number of times Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened an escalation of the war in Gaza in the 19 months since it started.

Mondays announcement, however, was different.

By promising to seize and hold territory, Mr Netanyahu and his military chiefs are adopting a significant shift in strategy that sets both the inhabitants of the embattled Strip, and Israel itself, on an uncertain course.

Despite the colossal destruction it has wrought in its mission to defeat Hamas, Israel did not set out to occupy the enclave.

This was for two reasons. Firstly, the practical necessity of keeping troops available for the war against Hezbollah in the north.

Secondly, Israels interest was in annihilating Hamas, not in gaining land for its own sake, which would then have to be policed, as in the West Bank.

Therefore, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) took the approach of pulverising the area from the air and with artillery, before moving in ground troops and killing any Hamas fighters that they could see. They would then dismantle what they could of the groups infrastructure and tunnels before moving on to the next zone.

The problem was, this did not work  at least not in the comprehensive way that Mr Netanyahus bellicose language appeared to promise.

Although significantly degraded, Hamas fought on, regrouping and popping up in neighbourhoods that had been declared cleansed.

The orderly and disciplined sight of their neatly dressed fighters at the weekly hostage handover ceremonies in January and February was a stinging rebuke to that strategy, and one we know Mr Netanyahu felt personally.

However, the authors of that initial playbook, Yoav Gallant, the former defence minister, and Herzi Halevi, the former IDF chief of staff, have now gone; the threat from Lebanon has been neutered; and a new administration in Washington has more or less given Israel the green light to proceed however it wants.

Named Gideons Chariots, the new operation will use four or five armoured and infantry divisions to seize and then occupy territory in Gaza.

All civilians will be sent south, to a so-called humanitarian zone near what is left of the city of Rafah, which the IDF currently controls.

They will receive aid in, it is hoped, a controlled manner that prevents Hamas profiting from it, although there are significant questions over how this can be achieved.

Meanwhile, the army will use bulldozers and explosives to flatten any building it considers linked to Hamas, or posing a threat to advancing troops from booby traps or snipers.

On the evidence of Rafah, these are broad definitions and the destruction will be extensive.

The operation will not start immediately. Officials have let it be known that they will wait until after Donald Trump has finished his visit to the Gulf at the end of next week.

It is hoped that Hamas will offer up a palatable hostage deal in the meantime; although Israel also needs at least that long to prepare for the new offensive.

Can it work?

Amir Avivi, a retired IDF brigadier general and the now chair of the Israel Defense and Security Forum, said he believed that the operation could technically be achieved in two or three months, but that the military would likely go at a slower pace to give Hamas the chance to request a ceasefire in return for hostage releases.

He said: You cant defeat Hamas unless you control the ground. You have to separate the terrorists from the population.

The operation can work and it has to work.

Others are far less certain, not least the Israeli public.

Poll after poll shows that citizens value securing the release of the hostages above the defeat of Hamas in the short term, and that 60 to 70 per cent oppose a major operation to occupy Gaza.

The main hostage families group believes that the strategy is a disaster for the hope of returning their loved-ones. Eyal Zamir, the new IDF chief of staff, reportedly warned his political masters on Sunday that Israel could lose the detainees as a result.

Reliance on reservists

Moreover, by promising to hold the territory, Gideons Chariots threatens to become an open-ended commitment. The IDF, with its structural reliance on reservists who need to get back to their families and jobs, is at its best in quick, kinetic wars.

Of the roughly 70,000 reservists who will be required for the mission, most have already served 300 or more days since Oct 7, which has battered morale and, to an extent, Israels economy.

IDF chiefs are reportedly concerned that as many as 50 per cent will not turn up for duty.

Then there are the civilians, the ordinary Gazans, hundreds of thousands of whom have lived through one of the most intense bombing campaigns of anywhere in the world this century.

A boy wounded during an Israeli army strike is carried into the Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City - Jehad Alshrafi/AP

By ordering them into the new southern zone, Israel will, in the eyes of the world, be responsible for every detail of their welfare in a way that it has not been until now. This comes just as the lack of aid, which was cut off in early March, really begins to bite.

France and China have led the chorus of concern about the wider operation, whose endgame is, as yet, unclear.

The suspicion among the Israeli commentariat is that the army, and most of the security cabinet, would much rather not go ahead with the operation and are hoping for a deal.

Hunger war scenario

But on Tuesday the terror group said it would not negotiate while Israel touted its hunger war scenario.

The ultra-nationalist members of the governing coalition, such as Bezalel Smotrich, the finance minister, believe that the military presence should be permanent.

He said: We wont stop even for the hostages.

Mr Smotrich also urged Israelis to embrace the word occupation.

For those of his way of thinking, the clearing of the population from the bulk of Gaza and the destruction of much of the property there sets the scene perfectly for the mass displacement of civilians envisaged in Donald Trumps Middle East Riviera vision.

Other voices have suggested that by comprehensively clearing neighbourhoods of Hamas, Israel can then set about rebuilding safe neighbourhoods of the kind that US forces had some success with in Iraq following their surge.

As ever in contemporary Israel, all eyes are now on Mr Trump for a solution.
Piers Morgan has hit out at Kanye West after the rapper abruptly walked out of a fiery interview on Piers Morgan Uncensored, branding him a snivelling little coward for refusing to answer tough questions.

Teasing the full conversation on X, the TV host wrote: Ye did walk out, after two minutes... because he's a snivelling little coward who didn't want me to ask him why he's become a vile Hitler-loving Nazi-slathering anti-Semite.

The presenter speaking to West on his show (YouTube/Piers Morgan)

Happy to continue the interview when/if you grow a pair @kanyewest.

The clash, which took place on Morgans YouTube show, quickly descended into chaos.

West, now known as Ye, was speaking from Spain and joined by influencer Sneako, but barely a minute in, tensions erupted as they argued over his controversial views and social media presence.

Kanye West abruptly walked out of a fiery interview on Piers Morgan Uncensored (Piers Morgan Uncensored)

West bristled at being introduced by his former surname and interrupted Morgan within seconds of the first question.

Im doin good. I dont use the term West, you know, the whole drop the slave name idea? he said.

Morgan replied,  OK, so we just call you Ye, yeah? before trying to continue with pleasantries.

But Ye soon launched into a scattered monologue, referencing being attacked by the banks and positioning himself as a misunderstood artist.

When Morgan brought up his follower count on X, suggesting it was around 32 million, Ye snapped back: Wait, now, look, right now you're not going to take inches off my d***, bro. Like, how many followers do I have?

The bizarre exchange spiralled further, with Ye accusing Morgan of not taking accountability and complaining about being misrepresented.

Ye did walk out, after two minutes.. because hes a snivelling little coward who didnt want me to ask him why hes become a vile Hitler-loving Nazi-slathering anti-Semite.

Happy to continue the interview when/if you grow a pair @kanyewest https://t.co/9WcKsB1MNW  Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) May 6, 2025

This is what you get for now, we can circle back when you can count, he said, before removing his earpiece and walking off camera.

A brief back and forth continued with Morgan stating: I'm told it's 33 million now. So congratulations, you're slightly bigger following than I thought.

Sneako, left on screen, told Morgan: Thats it for Ye but it was nice to meet you Piers.

Morgan later blasted the walkout on social media, calling Ye a big baby.

Well circle back when he is ready to answer questions about why he loves Hitler and hates Jews, Morgan said in one tweet.

He then reposted a clip from the interview with the caption: A massive d***.
Empty shelves at a Marks & Spencer shop in Paddington, London, last week after a ransomware attack - Holly Williams/PA

Nationally significant cyber attacks targeting the UK have doubled in the past six months, according to the cyber crime agency boss.

Richard Horne, the chief executive of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), said there have been twice as many nationally significant cyber attacks since September compared with the same period last year as he warned of increasing threats from Russia, China and Iran.

Last week, Harrods became the latest high-profile UK retailer to fall victim to hacking, after a serious ransomware attack on Marks & Spencer had forced the company to suspend online orders and halt recruitment. The Co-op Group was also targeted, prompting it to shut down parts of its IT infrastructure.

Speaking at the CyberUK conference in Manchester, Mr Horne said that recent ransomware attacks on high-street retailers showed the very real impacts that cyber attacks can have.

The agency dealt with more than 200 incidents between September 2024 to March 2025.

That includes twice as many nationally significant incidents as the same period a year ago. Behind those numbers are people, our adversaries... adversaries probing for weaknesses, he added.

Horne did not specify which incidents, but significant incidents include cyber attacks that have a serious impact on a large organisation or local government or can pose a risk to central government and essential services, according to the agencys website.

Cyber attacks that affect a large proportion of the population or the economy are also treated as significant.

Last week, Harrods became the latest high-profile UK retailer to fall victim to hacking - James Manning/PA

Turning to those behind cyber attacks, Mr Horne said that hostile states have weaponised their cyber capabilities and were operating in a grey zone, which he described as the murky space between peace and war.

He said that China remained a pacing threat and the ruling Communist party had a whole  vast  ecosystem, entirely at their disposal.

Describing the threat from Russia, he said Moscow had focused on waging acts of sabotage... often using criminal proxies in their plot and there was a direct connection between Russian cyber attacks and physical threats to our security.

He added: These threats are manifesting on the streets of the UK... against our industries and our businesses putting lives, critical services and national security at risk.

He said that as a ceasefire in Ukraine becomes more likely, Russia would use cyber espionage to gain strategic advantage in its negotiation strategy.

Mr Horne added that the UK was facing a heightened threat of cyber espionage from Iranian cyber actors while UK companies were being targeted by hackers in North Korea to generate revenue for their regime.

Mr Horne said that ransomware remained a persistent threat and the country must aim for a future together where paying ransoms is no longer considered an option... where the business model for the attackers no longer works.

We all have a critical role in building the resilience thats needed to ensure recovery can happen without the payment of a ransom, he said.

Richard Horne said the recent incidents involving high-street retailers show the very real impacts that cyber attacks can have - Matthew Horwood for CyberUK/Getty Images

On Wednesday, the NCSC also declassified research on AI that found it would make cyber attacks more effective and more frequent.

It said that hackers would be likely to use automation to help avoid being caught and scale up their attacks.

Addressing the issue, Mr Horne said that AI would cause us to be vulnerable in new ways but could also aid cyber defences, so we must embrace the technology.

The conference also heard from Pat McFadden, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, who warned that cyber attacks are not a game.

He said: The purpose is to damage and extort good businesses. Its the digital version of an old-fashioned shake-down. Either straight theft or a protection racket where your business will be safe as long as you pay the gangsters

And what weve seen over the past couple of weeks should serve as a wake-up call for everyone  for government and the public sector, for businesses and organisations up and down the country, as if we needed one, that cybersecurity is not a luxury  its an absolute necessity.

No more memorising passwords

Concerns over significant cyber attacks came as the Government unveiled new plans to make memorising complex passwords and clunky text message-based login systems a thing of the past.

Government departments will start rolling out smart passkeys, which they hope will save users one minute every time they log into accounts.

Passkeys, which are already being used in the NHS and now being promoted to the private sector, are unique digital keys that are today tied to specific devices, such as a phone or a laptop.

When a user logs in to a website or app, their device uses this digital key to prove the users identity without needing to send a code to a secondary device or to receive user input.

The key remains stored on the device and cannot be easily intercepted or stolen, with third parties unable to access accounts using other devices.

Major step forward

The roll out will begin later this year and was announced today at Cyber UK by Feryal Clark, the minister responsible for AI and digital government.

She said: The rollout of passkeys marks another major step forward in strengthening the UKs digital defences while improving user experience for millions.

Replacing older methods like SMS verification with modern, secure passkeys will make it quicker and easier for people to access essential services  without needing to remember complex passwords or wait for text messages.

This shift will not only save users valuable time but it will reduce fraud and phishing risks that damage our economic growth.

The move is backed by the NCSC, which views passkeys as the future of online authentication.

Ollie Whitehouse, the chief technical officer of the NCSC, said: We strongly advise all organisations to implement passkeys wherever possible to enhance security and save significant costs on SMS authentication.
Nearly two in five people are at risk of being unable to cover even their basic needs in retirement (OLIVER LANG/AFP/GETTY IMAGES)

Nearly two in five people (39 per cent) are at risk of being unable to cover even their basic needs in retirement as pension savings fail to keep pace with the rising cost of living, according to a concerning new report.

The research, conducted by Scottish Widows, suggests the situation has worsened compared with 2023, when just over a third (35 per cent) of people were thought to be on course to fall short of having a minimum lifestyle in retirement.

Low- to middle-income earners and people under the age of 40 could be at particular risk of falling short of having a lifestyle in retirement that covers even their basic needs, the report warned.

People who identify as LGBTQ+, people with disabilities and people from black communities are particularly likely not to be on track for a minimum lifestyle in retirement, and part-time and self-employed workers are more likely to face worse retirement outcomes than full-time workers, the research indicates.

Low- to middle-income earners and people under the age of 40 could be at particular risk (Lucy North/PA)

The report also highlighted housing costs as a significant barrier to meeting basic retirement outcomes. Some people may face paying mortgages or rent into their retirement, with high housing costs also making it tougher to save during their working lives.

Differences in retirement prospects across the UK were also found.

The proportion of people estimated to be on track to have at least a minimum lifestyle in retirement ranged from just over half (52 per cent) in both Northern Ireland and the North East of England to more than two-thirds (68 per cent) in the East of England.

Scottish Widows teamed up with Frontier Economics and used a YouGov survey of more than 5,100 people across the UK in January and February.

Researchers also used the retirement living standards set out by the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association (PLSA). The standards were developed to help pension savers picture what kind of lifestyle they could have in retirement and set out three retirement standards  basic, moderate and comfortable.

One in 12 (8 per cent) is on track for a moderate lifestyle (Getty Images)

The Scottish Widows report indicated that just over a fifth (22 per cent) of people across the UK may end up with a minimum lifestyle in retirement, which would mean having enough money to cover basic needs, with some money left over for non-essentials.

One in 12 (8 per cent) is on track for a moderate lifestyle, which is the next step up and would mean having more financial security and wriggle-room in their budget.

Three in 10 (30 per cent) are estimated to be on track for a comfortable retirement lifestyle, which is the most affluent of the three retirement lifestyles, with more financial freedom and room for luxuries.

Pete Glancy, head of pensions policy at Scottish Widows, said: Our research couldnt be more timely, spelling out just how crucial targeted measures are in preventing millions from living in retirement poverty in the coming years.

For now, the challenge is helping people make the most of what they have. It is essential to ensure people feel financially empowered to make informed decisions and take proactive steps for their future, with a strong sense of financial independence playing a key role.

On track for minimum PLSA retirement living standards

Here are the proportions of people who are estimated to be on track for at least the minimum PLSA retirement living standards in the UK nations and regions, according to Scottish Widows:
Migrants outside a Comfort Inn in Pimlico, central London - Jamie Lorriman

The cost of housing migrants has tripled to 4 million a day as Channel crossings continue to soar.

Official data show that hotel and other asylum accommodation originally set to cost 4.5 billion between 2019 and 2029 is now expected to reach 15.3 billion.

In 2024 alone, the cost was 1.67 billion, equivalent to 4.6 million a day or 3,172 a minute.

The 15.3 billion is three times greater than Labours proposed benefits cut, and could pay to build up to 15 new hospitals.

It comes as Sir Keir Starmer faces mounting pressure over Labours immigration policy and the rise of Reform UK.

The Telegraph revealed last week that senior figures in the Government blamed asylum hotels for fuelling the surge in support for Reform UK in the local elections.

On Wednesday night, Pat McFadden, Sir Keirs right-hand man, admitted that Labour faced a generational battle with Reform for Britains future.

There are fears that disillusioned voters have linked the money spent on asylum hotels with high-profile spending cuts, including to the winter fuel allowance for pensioners and disability benefits.

Profits of 400m

The figures from the National Audit Office (NAO) suggested that asylum hotels could be more profitable for companies holding the contracts than other types of housing.

Clearsprings Ready Homes, Mears Group and Serco, the three suppliers handed the 10-year accommodation contracts, are estimated to have already made a profit of almost 400 million in the five years since September 2019.

The contractors are responsible for finding private rental accommodation for asylum seekers who are dispersed across the country and for sub-contracting hotels for migrants coming across the Channel by small boat.

There were 38,000 migrants housed in hotels as of December 2024, and a further 66,000 asylum seekers were in dispersed accommodation, which is mainly self-catering houses and flats.

But The Telegraph understands that Labours plan to smash the gangs has been frustrated by the European Commission, which is blocking the UK from accessing important intelligence on people smugglers.

Ministers are considering lengthening the time migrants have to wait before they can make their residency permanent from five years to 10 years unless they meet certain conditions such as passing tougher English tests.

The changes, part of Sir Keir Starmers immigration White Paper due next week, would make it harder for migrants to get indefinite leave where there were questions over their financial status or whether they had spent too much time outside the UK since arriving.

Home Office officials have requested greater access to Europol data about gangs operating on the Continent, as part of a joint effort to stop migrants reaching Calais.

Sources said the European Commission was resisting the disclosure of further intelligence as negotiations continued over a reset with Europe.

Brussels is also refusing to give the UK access to fingerprint data and a system that would identify illegal migrants who had already applied for asylum elsewhere before reaching the UK.

Officers from the UKs National Crime Agency (NCA) are embedded with Europol in the Netherlands to help disrupt the flow of migrants from the Middle East to northern France, where they use small boats to travel to Britain. More than 150,000 migrants have crossed the Channel since 2019.

The Europol Information System, the main intelligence hub used to track the gangs, would significantly enhance the UKs deterrence operations, sources said.

But that information is only partially shared with Britain because it has not been a full member of Europol since Brexit. In exchange, European officers have been locked out of invaluable intelligence collected by the NCA.

European Commission officials are reluctant to allow the UK access to some of the EUs most precious data without receiving the funding and sovereignty concessions that member states provide.

The EU provides the majority of Europols funding, and sources close to discussions said it exercised an effective veto on access to data by non-members.

It follows reports that the EU is also blocking access to immigration systems that would help Border Force track whether migrants had claimed asylum elsewhere before arriving on small boats.

Meanwhile, much of the Home Offices budget has been used up with the cost of asylum hotels, with a looming spending review that will set day-to-day budgets for the next three years.

Clearsprings is now set to be paid 7.3 billion over the 10 years from 2019 to 2029, according to the NAO, while Serco is expected to get 5.5 billion and Mears will receive 2.5 billion.

The overall number of people seeking asylum housed in Home Office accommodation rose by 134 per cent between December 2019 and 2024, from 47,000 to 110,000.

The spending watchdogs said this was because of the increase in people arriving in the UK by crossing the English Channel and a rise in those claiming asylum who were previously detained under the Conservative governments Illegal Migration Act 2023.

Since the Government came to power in July last year, 23 hotels have been closed, while contracts were discontinued at three large sites, including the Bibby Stockholm barge. Labour had pledged to end the use of hotels for asylum seekers during its general election campaign.

Napier Barracks in Folkestone, Kent, is also due to close and be returned to the Ministry of Defence in September.

Responding to the NAOs findings, a Home Office spokesman said: As this report shows, we inherited an asylum system in chaos with tens of thousands stuck in a backlog, claims not being processed and disastrous contracts that were wasting millions in taxpayer money.

Weve taken immediate action to fix it  increasing asylum decision-making by 52 per cent and removing 24,000 people with no right to be here, meaning there are now fewer asylum hotels open than since the election.

By restoring grip on the system and speeding up decision-making, we will end the use of hotels and are forecast to save the taxpayer 4 billion by the end of 2026.
Richard Wright KC, prosecuting, describes the felling of the tree as the arboreal equivalent of mindless thuggery

The men accused of felling the Sycamore Gap tree thought it would be a bit of a laugh, a court has been told.

Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers realised they werent the big men they thought they were when they saw the public outrage over the felling of the century-old tree, prosecutors said.

Ground worker Mr Graham, 39, and mechanic Mr Carruthers, 32, are accused of driving overnight from Carlisle to Sycamore Gap during Storm Agnes in September 2023, and cutting the tree down with a chainsaw.

The pair both deny two charges of criminal damage related to the sycamore tree and Hadrians Wall, which was damaged when the tree fell onto it.

In his closing speech to jurors on Wednesday, prosecutor Richard Wright KC said: From Felixstowe to Falkirk, from Bishop Auckland to Barnstable, up and down the country and across the world, the reaction of all right thinking people to the senseless felling of the Sycamore Gap tree has been one of sadness and anger.

Who would do such a thing? Why would anyone do such a thing? Take something beautiful and destroy it for no good reason.

Go to the trouble of causing irreparable and senseless damage to an adornment to the rural landscape of Northumberland, and in the process damage the ancient structure of Hadrians Wall. Then take away a souvenir of your moronic mission.

The public indignation, anger and downright disgust has been palpable, hasnt it?

But, so it appears, that it came as something of a shock to Adam Carruthers.

Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers deny two charges of criminal damage related to the tree and Hadrians Wall - North News Pictures

Mr Wright reminded jurors that Carruthers had said during his evidence that it was just a tree and the reaction was as if somebody had been murdered.

And perhaps that sentiment, that lack of appreciation, actually explains a great deal about these two defendants and about why... neither of them is willing to own up to what they have done, Mr Wright said.

Because for all that they must have thought that this was going to be a bit of a laugh, they woke up the morning after and soon realised  as the news media rolled in, as the outrage of the public became clear... it must have dawned on them that they couldnt see anyone else smiling in there.

And that far from being the big men they thought they were, everyone else thought that they were rather pathetic.

Owning up to this arboreal equivalent of mindless thuggery would make them public enemy number one. And neither of them has got the courage to do that.

Two men in it together

Mr Wright described the two men as the odd couple and said they were in it together.

He added: Two men who did everything together and who, you can be sure, were together this night as well.

A team who were in it together from first to last. One to operate the saw and the other to film it. But both are equally responsible.

Mr Wright told the court that a video, said to be of the moment the tree was cut down, which was found on Grahams phone and had been sent to Carruthers, would have been gold dust if it had been released.

He said: And there are only two people in the world who ever had that video on their telephones. Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers.

The trial continues.
Skinners' Kent Academy in Tunbridge Wells, Kent screengrab from Google Maps

A teacher accused of mouthing answers to pupils in GCSE exams has been banned from the classroom.

At a misconduct hearing, a panel found Louisa Yakit, the head of modern languages at The Skinners Kent Academy in Tunbridge Wells, had breached the boundary of what was acceptable.

During French GCSE speaking examinations, Ms Yakit allowed pupils to see prepared answers, showed them answers on her computer, held up prompts and mouthed answers to pupils, according to the hearing report.

A pupil who gave evidence at the hearing said she had two computer screens facing her in the examination room, with one displaying fully marked answers to the questions, which Ms Yakit pointed to and the pupil could read off.

The pupil added that Ms Yakit, who had worked at the school since 2016, was mouthing what to say.

On two occasions during French GCSE speaking exam preparation, Ms. Yakit reportedly provided pupils with written assistance, answers, and dictated what to write or say.

Fundamentally dishonest

While some prompts are permitted by a teacher examiner, the panel concluded Ms Yakit had a clear intention to assist the candidates, which in the context of an examination was cheating and fundamentally dishonest.

The report added: Whilst Ms Yakit stated her intentions were to support the pupils, she undermined the reliability of the examination process and the pupils examination results, which fell below the standards expected of a teacher.

Ms Yakit, who attended the misconduct hearing with her barrister, said she did not intentionally allow pupils to view written material.

Although she added, this might have been possible because the room was small and their positions relative to each other.

In her written statement, she said at the time of her conduct, she did not consider it inappropriate for practice runs to take place in the examination room.

When she gave oral evidence, she said that she did not think at the time that her assistance was dishonest, as she was prioritising the confidence of the pupils and their ability to undertake the examinations.

She was the best teacher

Leading up to the French GCSEs, another teacher in the modern languages department had left the school, putting Ms Yakit under extra pressure in the department, said the report.

Three witnesses for Ms Yakit described her as of previously good character and her reputation had been widely recognised within the school as a good and honest teacher.

One of the witnesses said Ms Yakits lessons were consistently outstanding and students really enjoyed the subject when she taught them.

Another said she was the best teacher in the department and offered a transformative experience of teaching modern foreign languages.

Ms Yakit can apply for the ban to be lifted after two years.

The school said in a statement: The academy dealt with the incident swiftly and efficiently at the time and followed all internal procedures in line with our policies.

We are aware of the decision made by the Secretary of State and have been kept informed by the relevant authorities throughout the process.

We want to reassure our students, parents and the wider academy community that this was an isolated incident and we continue to remain fully committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, fairness and academic integrity.
The four-rotor German Enigma cypher machine was used to encode wartime messages by Axis powers. Photograph: Science & Society Picture Library/SSPL/Getty Images

The Enigma code was a fiendish cipher that took Alan Turing and his fellow codebreakers a herculean effort to crack. Yet experts say it would have crumbled in the face of modern computing.

While Polish experts broke early versions of the Enigma code in the 1930s and built anti-Enigma machines, subsequent security upgrades by the Germans meant Turing had to develop new machines, or Bombes, to help his team of codebreakers decipher enemy messages. By 1943, the machines could decipher two messages every minute.

Yet while the race to break the Enigma code has become famous, credited with shortening the second world war by up to two years, and spawning various Hollywood films, experts say cracking it would be a trivial matter today.

Enigma wouldnt stand up to modern computing and statistics, said Michael Wooldridge, a professor of computer science and an expert in artificial intelligence (AI) at the University of Oxford.

The Enigma device used by the Axis powers was an electro-mechanical machine that resembled a typewriter, with three rotors that each had 26 possible positions, a reflector that sent the signal back through the rotors and a plugboard that swapped pairs of letters.

Its set-up meant that even if the same key was pressed twice, a different letter would be produced each time. Whats more, the initial settings were changed every 24 hours.

Essentially the enigma devices got their power because the number of possible ways in which a message could be encrypted was astronomically large. Far, far too large for a human to exhaustively check, Wooldridge said, adding that the bombes were crude hardwired mechanical computers, searching through enormous numbers of possible alternatives to decrypt Nazi messages.

Dr Mustafa A Mustafa, a senior lecturer in software security at the University of Manchester, added that the key to the success of Turing and his colleagues was that Enigma had a number of weaknesses, including that no letter would be represented as itself once enciphered.

It was [a] brute force attack, trying all different combinations out. But with these weaknesses of the Enigma, they managed to do that. They managed to automate this to do it fast enough to be able to crack the code, he said.

Today, however, the process would be far less arduous, not least because of a technology Turing himself pioneered: AI.

It would be straightforward to recreate the logic of bombes in a conventional program, Wooldridge said, noting the AI model ChatGPT was able to do so. Then with the speed of modern computers, the laborious work of the bombes would be done in very short order.

Wooldridge added that a range of modern statistical and computational techniques could also be deployed. And the power of modern datacentres is hard to imagine, he said, noting modern computing power would have astounded Turing. Enigma would not remotely be a match for these, he said.

Using a slightly different approach  that Wooldridge suggested might be slower  researchers have previously used an AI system trained to recognise German using Grimms fairytales, together with 2,000 virtual servers, to crack a coded message in 13 minutes.

But while modern computing would have rapidly defanged Enigma, techniques such as the Rivest-Shamir-Adleman (RSA) cipher  a system initially developed in 1977 and based on large prime numbers  remain robust.

Related: A very camp environment: why Alan Turing fatefully told police he was gay

In the case of RSA, its the problem of factoring very large numbers. Brute force techniques  looking through all the alternatives  just wont work on these problems, said Wooldridge, although he noted such techniques might not hold up against future developments. If quantum computers ever deliver their theoretical promise, then we may need completely new techniques to keep our data safe, he said.

But while the Enigma code would not stand up long to modern technology, Mustafa said cracking it during the war was a huge achievement, not least as it was considered unbreakable.

To be able to crack it  it took them months, more than a year  but to be able actually to do this within the lifetime of the war, it was a huge thing, he said. God knows what would have happened if we hadnt cracked Enigma in time.
An RAF F-35. The research also raises questions over whether the UK continued to sell F-35 parts directly to Israel. Photograph: AS1 Amber Mayall RAF/PA

UK firms have exported thousands of military items including munitions to Israel despite the government suspending key arms export licences to the country in September, new analysis of trade data shows.



The research also raises questions over whether the UK continued to sell F-35 parts directly to Israel in breach of an undertaking only to sell them to the US manufacturers Lockheed Martin as a way of ensuring the fighter jets global supply chain was not disrupted, something the government said was essential for national security and Nato.



The findings have led the former Labour shadow chancellor John McDonnell to call for a full investigation, adding it was a resigning matter if the foreign secretary, David Lammy, was shown to have misled parliament in breach of the ministerial code when he told MPs in September that much of what the UK sends to Israel was defensive in nature.

Related: Incoherence over arms exports to Israel leaves UK on shaky middle ground

McDonnell said The government has shrouded its arms supplies to Israel in secrecy. They must finally come clean in response to this extremely concerning evidence and halt all British arms exports to Israel to ensure no British-made weapons are used in Netanyahus new and terrifying plans to annex the Gaza Strip and ethnically cleanse the land.

The research  conducted jointly by the Palestinian Youth Movement, Progressive International and Workers for a Free Palestine  uses Israeli tax authority import data to try to uncover what the continuance of the 200 arms export licences has allowed Israel to import. It covers the first seven months of the Labour ban to March.

In September, the Labour government suspended 29 arms export licences for offensive use in Gaza, leaving 200 arms licences in place. It also gave a carve-out for equipment used in the F-35 programme, saying national security required that the F-35 supply chain remained intact.

The suspensions were due to a clear risk that Israel might use the arms to commit serious breaches of international humanitarian law. Ministers have repeatedly assured MPs that the arms export licences remaining in place did not cover goods for use by the Israeli military in the conflict with Hamas.

Lammy, for instance, told parliament in September the continuing licences covered items such as goggles and helmets for use by one of the UKs closest allies.

The Foreign Office has not published details of what the continuing licences covered.



But the new research raises questions over whether that distinction between supplying equipment for Israels offensive and defensive purposes is, or ever was, valid, especially if, as it appears, it provided a loophole for sales of munitions to Israel. The UK has no means of checking how the munitions it exports are used by the Israel Defense Forces.



This latest research indicates that 14 shipments of military items have been sent from the UK to Israel since October 2023, including 13 by air to Ben Gurion airport and one maritime delivery to Haifa that alone contained 160,000 items.

Since September 2024, 8,630 items were exported under the category bombs, grenades, torpedoes, mines, missiles and similar munitions of war and parts thereof  other.

In addition to weapons, four shipments were made after September of 146 items under a customs code identified as tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, motorised, whether or not fitted with weapons, and parts of such vehicles.

Most of the shipments, valued in total at just over 500,000, occurred after the UK government suspended the arms export licences in September.

The Israeli data provides a code number identifying the type of export, details on country of origin, the value of the items, the month shipped and whether transported by land or sea. Neither the supplier or customer is listed.

On the commitment not to sell F-35 components to Israel directly, the report finds that the monthly pattern of UK shipments of aircraft parts to Israel is largely unchanged since September, but the data does not reveal if they are military parts.

Zarah Sultana, the MP for Coventry South, said: This explosive report shows the government has been lying to us about the arms it is supplying to Israel while it wages genocide in Gaza. Far from helmets and goggles, the government has been sending thousands of arms and ammunition goods. Labour has withdrawn the party whip from Sultana because she voted against benefit cuts.

A Foreign Office spokesperson said: This government has suspended relevant licences for the IDF that might be used to commit or facilitate serious violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza.

Of the remaining licences for Israel, the vast majority are not for the Israeli Defence Forces but are for civilian purposes or re-export, and therefore are not used in the war in Gaza.

The only exemption is the F-35 programme due to its strategic role in Nato and wider implications for international peace and security. Any suggestion that the UK is licensing other weapons for use by Israel in the war in Gaza is misleading.

The UK totally opposes an expansion of Israels military operations in Gaza. We urge all parties to return urgently to talks, implement the ceasefire agreement in full, secure the release of hostages taken by Hamas, and work towards a permanent peace.

.
Residents in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Kashmir, walk through the wreckage left by Tuesdays air strike - M.D. Mughal/AP

In launching military strikes on nine sites in Pakistan, India has ignited an inferno in the region, and is responsible for any further escalation, Islamabad has said.

This rhetoric has the world on edge, with fears growing that an all out war could erupt between nuclear-armed adversaries.

Shortly after the overnight missile strikes, Delhi declared that justice had been done. But that does not mean the fighting will stop.

Will Pakistan retaliate?

Pakistan has called the strikes an act of war and has authorised its armed forces to conduct retaliatory measures.

What is happening across the neighbours contested frontier might look like the start of an all-out conflict, but it is not yet, and the two powers will be under intense pressure to make sure it does not escalate to get there.

In their decades of antagonism, India and Pakistan have been here before and managed to step back from the brink.

Credit: Social Media

Allies of the two sides, including America, the UK, and China are urgently intervening to try to ensure that they back down once again.

Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, told Parliament that Britain was encouraging dialogue as well as de-escalation in the worst violence between the countries in two decades that has left at least 38 dead.

To do that, the two sides must somehow be able to make claims that they have acted robustly to defend their nations, and their honours have been satisfied.

Fortunately, beyond the bellicose nationalist rhetoric of social media and rolling news coverage, each side also has experienced civilian and military figures who have years of dealing with deterrence and escalation, and trying to manage their confrontations.

For all the martial fervour from India, even as it launched the strikes, Delhi has been careful in its language and in the choice of targets.

India stressed that no Pakistani military facilities have been targeted and that it had instead demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution.

Delhi told the world, and Islamabad, that its strikes had been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature.

The problem is that once missiles and planes begin flying and casualties mount, events can take on a momentum of their own and quickly spiral out of control.

Both nations have large militaries and nuclear arms. In recent years, Pakistan has grown close to China and India has grown closer to America, though this is not a proxy conflict.

Worried diplomats will hope that a similar flare-up six years ago may form the template for how the current tension may be dissipated.

In early 2019, the Pulwama bombing killed 40 Indian paramilitary personnel. Delhi responded with air strikes against what it said was a terrorist training camp in Balakot, a claim rejected by Islamabad, which said it was uninhabited forest.

The following day Pakistan launched a retaliatory raid and an Indian air force pilot was shot down in a dogfight and taken prisoner.

Despite the escalation, after that clash and the handover of the captured pilot, the enemies were able to ease tensions.

Each nation felt able to tell its population that it had come out on top.

Today, each countrys leadership and watching diplomats will be hoping that such an off-ramp remains the most likely outcome now.

Once again, the region finds itself walking a difficult tightrope between escalation and restraint.
Louise Haigh quit as transport secretary in November - Ian Forsyth/Getty Images

Northern women in the Cabinet are being targeted by Downing Street insiders, a former frontbencher has claimed.

Louise Haigh, who quit as transport secretary in November, said she was really fed up with reading negative briefings against some of her former ministerial colleagues.

Reports over the weekend suggested that Lisa Nandy, the Culture Secretary, and Bridget Phillipson, the Education Secretary, were facing the sack in a reshuffle this summer.

In an interview with the BBCs Newsnight programme, Ms Haigh accused some No 10 staff of focusing more on attacking women in Sir Keir Starmers Cabinet than running the country.

She said: Im just really fed up of opening the papers and reading briefings against my female former colleagues.

And I was really angry over the weekend to see the response to the electoral defeat that we had suffered at the hands of Reform to be that we should sack two female, northern Cabinet ministers and two of our best communicators with those voters that we need to communicate with most.

I think that does reveal that there are people working in No 10 who are more interested in those kinds of politics than they are in running the country.

Ms Phillipson has come under fire over her handling of Labours tax raid on private schools, having defended the policy by telling her critics to try leaving London for a change.

Ms Nandy, meanwhile, has been the subject of multiple hostile briefings in recent weeks, including claims that she only focuses on part of her culture, media and sport brief.

Lisa Nandy, the Culture Secretary, may be sacked in a summer reshuffle, according to reports - Wiktor Szymanowicz/Future Publishing via Getty Images

Asked about negative coverage of Ed Miliband, the Energy Secretary, Ms Haigh replied: Ed does get briefing, thats absolutely right. I wouldnt say he gets it anywhere near as badly as my female colleagues do.

Pressed on whether the pattern of briefing was sexist or misogynistic, she said: All of the above. I think there is a real problem where people are, as I say, more interested in that kind of politics than they are in rolling their sleeves up and getting on with the job of running the country.

It is not motivational to Cabinet colleagues who are working really hard to try and deliver for the people of this country.

And the kind of briefing that undermines them on a daily basis is not supporting the Prime Minister, and its not supporting the Labour Government.

Ms Haigh resigned from the Cabinet in November after she admitted to pleading guilty to misleading the police a decade ago.

She appeared at Camberwell Green magistrates court in 2014, six months before her election as an MP, after making a false report to officers that her mobile phone had been stolen.

Speculation has been swirling in Westminster that Sir Keir will carry out a reshuffle in the coming weeks after last weeks poor local election results.

Labour performed twice as badly as projected, as Reform UK made sweeping gains, prompting calls from across the party for the Prime Minister to change course.

Baroness Smith, the minister for women and equalities, said those briefing against the Cabinet ministers should shut up.

Lady Smith told BBC Twos Politics Live: There are people who sit on the edge of government who frankly probably dont have enough to do and who brief.

I dont think this Government is fundamentally sexist or misogynistic. Everything Ive seen Keir Starmer do tells me that he cares deeply about not only the women in his government but, more importantly, the women in the country and what we can do for them

My message to those who want to brief against cabinet ministers is: Why not shut up and support the people that are doing the work to get on with it?

Rosie Duffield, a former Labour MP forced out of the party for her views on womens rights, posted on X: Its fabulous that other Labour women MPs are now speaking out honestly about the sexist briefings and low attitude of the expensive Ladz (sic) running the party have towards us.

It would have been so great to have had a bit of support when I was saying it ages ago.

A spokesman for the Prime Minister said: No one wants to see any briefing against anyone. We are one team.
Chewy with a meth pipe in its mouth during a traffic stop in the town of Springfield. Photograph: Springfield Township Police Department

Police in Ohio were surprised to discover a pet raccoon called Chewy with a meth pipe in its mouth during a traffic stop in the town of Springfield.

In a statement, Springfield Township police department said that one of its officers, Austin Branham, made the stop after spotting a vehicle whose owner had an active warrant and a suspended drivers license.

Branham detained the driver without incident but then returned to the vehicle.

However, things took an unusual turn, the police press release said.

As Officer Branham returned to the vehicle, he observed a raccoon named Chewy sitting in the drivers seat with a meth pipe in its mouth. Chewy had somehow gotten hold of a glass methamphetamine pipe, leading officers to further inspect the vehicle.

Police then discovered a bulk amount of methamphetamine, some crack cocaine and three used glass meth pipes.

Thankfully, Chewy the raccoon was unharmed, and notification was made to the proper authorities to determine that [the driver] has the proper paperwork and documentation to own the raccoon, police said.

The owner of the car and raccoon, Victoria Vidal, 55, is facing several drug charges and has been cited for driving under suspension.

No raccoons were hurt or injured in this incident, police added.
A man looks inside a damaged building after Indian missile strikes - SOHAIL SHAHZAD/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Pakistans prime minister has vowed to take revenge for every drop of blood spilt by India in the worst clash for decades between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

In a televised address to the nation, Shehbaz Sharif said a seven-year-old boy was amongst the 26 people killed in a series of Indian missile strikes overnight.

Calling on Pakistanis to show courage, Mr Sharif said: I promise that we will take revenge for every drop of blood of these victims.

But while appearing to threaten an escalation, the prime minister said the Pakistani military had already given a reply from our side to them.

Five warplanes, once the pride of India, now lie in ashes, he said, asserting that the Pakistani air force had shot down five Indian fighter jets, including three French-made Rafales. He claimed that it took only a few hours to bring the Indian military to its knees.

Delhi has yet to provide an official response to the claims. On Wednesday, a French intelligence source told CNN that a Rafale jet had indeed been downed during exchanges of fire.

Sir Keir Starmer told Parliament that Britain was engaging urgently with both Commonwealth countries and encouraging dialogue as well as de-escalation.

Donald Trump said: I want to see it stop. And if I can do anything to help, I will be there.

In a 25-minute operation launched just after 1am local time, the Indian armed forces struck nine alleged terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Vikram Misri, the Indian foreign secretary, said the strikes were a measured, non-escalatory response to the massacre of 26 people by armed militants last month in Indian-administered Kashmir.

Camps used to train fighters in Laskhar-e-Taiba, the terror group India accuses of carrying out the Kashmir killings, were struck in the attack, officials added.

Mr Misri did not directly accuse Pakistan of orchestrating the attack but said features of it tie in with Pakistans long track record of perpetrating cross-border terror.

In his speech, Mr Sharif denied that Pakistan was behind the murders, saying the country was accused for the wrong reasons.

Khawaja Asif, Pakistans defence minister, vowed that Islamabads response would be more significant than their [Indias] actions, but he added that we have already retaliated.

A befitting response

Rana Sanaullah, a senior adviser to the prime minister, signalled that any further Pakistani military action would be limited, given the claimed destruction of Indian jets.

We have given a befitting response, he told reporters after a meeting of the National Security Committee in Islamabad. If they [India] do further actions, then we will give an even more befitting response.

Both sides may want to tamp down tensions and avoid a protracted dispute, said Dr Walter Ladwig, an associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute, a London-based think tank.

Pakistans economy is a basket case and India would prefer to focus on building up its own to rival China in the region, he said.

By maintaining that five fighter jets have already been shot down, Islamabad may feel it has a way out of having to strike across India.

Hindu-majority India and Muslim-majority Pakistan have fought several wars over Kashmir since the two nations were divided at the end of British colonial rule in 1947.

Artillery fire is regularly exchanged over the Line of Control through Kashmir. Pakistans army says it operates a quid pro quo plus policy, striking back slightly harder in every instance of tit-for-tat fighting across the border.

07:57 PM BST

Thats all for today

Thanks for following our live coverage of the conflict between India and Pakistan. It has now ended for the day. Heres a recap of what happened:

India launched missile strikes targeting nine locations overnight

Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistans prime minister, has accused India of an act of war

Pakistani army responded with heavy mortar shelling on villages along the Line of Control in Poonch and Rajouri

Air India and Qatar Airways suspended flights

Pakistan shot down five Indian planes, a spokesman for Pakistans army said

At least seven people were killed in cross-border shelling in Indian administered Kashmir, a top official said

07:46 PM BST

Britains tragic decision that sealed Kashmirs fate

On July 8 1947, a senior British barrister called Cyril Radcliffe arrived for the first time in India and was handed an impossible job.

The British were leaving the subcontinent, and the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League  the parties led by Jawaharlal Nehru and Muhammad Ali Jinnah respectively  had agreed to partition India to allow the creation of Pakistan as a homeland for the sub-continents Muslims.

They could not agree on a border, and both they and Lord Mountbatten, the British viceroy, wanted one drawn by Independence, which was scheduled for August 15.

Radcliffe, whose ignorance of the country was seen as a guarantee of his impartiality, had just five weeks to decide the fate of millions of people.

In the West, Radcliffe drew a red line dividing Pakistan from India from the Arabian Sea to the top of Punjab. But when he reached the foothills of Kashmir and Jammu, he stopped. Technically, the highlands feeding the headwaters of the Indus river were in one of the Princely states of British India.

07:23 PM BST

Violent events in disputed area trebled in April

The number of violent events per month in the disputed area of Jammu and Kashmir trebled in April compared to March, Telegraph data analysis shows.

The map below shows where many of these violent events took place, including in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, and Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan.

07:06 PM BST

Trump wants terrible conflict to stop

Donald Trump has said he wants the conflict between India and Pakistan to stop.

Speaking on Wednesday, the US president said: My position is I get along with both. I know both very well, and I want to see him work it out.

Mr Trump also offered to help the two neighbouring countries resolve the conflict.

I want to see him stop and hopefully they can stop now theyve gone tit for tat, so hopefully they can stop now, but I know both, we get along with both the countries, very well, good relationships with both and I want to see it stop and if I can do anything to help, I will be there.

07:01 PM BST

Drills take place across India

Civil defence exercises took place in schools and workplaces across India today as the country prepared for the prospect of a retaliatory attack by Pakistan.

Security personnel and students take part in a drill conducted as a part of the nationwide civil defence exercise - Shutterstock

06:36 PM BST

How Pakistans military stacks up against India

India has launched military strikes against Pakistan, putting the two nuclear-armed neighbours on the brink of an all-out war.

The flare-up means that two of the regions largest militaries are again in face-to-face conflict.

The stand-off pits India, a global defence giant, against a country that may be far smaller, but is nevertheless heavily militarised and has dedicated a significant share of its resources to preparing for war.

As the worlds most populous nation, India has one of the worlds largest militaries, numbering around 1.4 million active service personnel, which include 1.2 million in the army, 60,000 in the navy and 127,000 in the air force. India also has 1.6 million-strong paramilitary forces and a reserve of 1.1 million.

The country is a defence expenditure heavyweight. Its defence spend reached 58 billion ($77.4 billion) in 2024, the second-highest outlay in Asia after China.

Meanwhile, Pakistans population is a fifth of the size and the country has been mired in an economic crisis for years.

06:23 PM BST

Death toll from India attack rises to 31

Pakistans military says the death toll from Indias missile attack has risen to 31.

Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistans prime minister, just confirmed that a seven-year-old boy was killed in the attacks alongside his mother.

Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, director general of inter-services public relations (DG ISPR), blamed the rising civilian toll on what he called Indias unprovoked aggression.

Any condemnation is not enough, Maj Gen Chaudhry told reporters in Rawalpindi.

The strikes on 6 and 7 May have unmasked Indias true character. Our enemy is so weak and frightened that it resorts to targeting civilians and population centres under the cover of darkness, rather than confronting our armed forces directly.

06:18 PM BST

Analysis: How the conflict could spiral into full-scale war

David Blair, the Telegraphs Chief Foreign Affairs Commentator, analyses why decades of tension between India and Pakistan could boil over into a full-scale war.

06:14 PM BST

India made a mistake, Pakistan PM says

Pakistans prime minister has just accused India of making a mistake by firing missiles at Pakistan overnight.

Pakistans prime minister Shehbaz Sharif said: This is a nation of courageous people who have high aims. They respect their country and protect their country.

They will fight until the last drop of their blood.

He also said the countrys air force defended strongly against Indias missile attacks, which he said was a reply from our side to them.

Shehbaz Sharif said India would have to suffer the consequences of its attack as he claimed that the air force had shot down five Indian fighter jets, including three French-made Rafales.
An exhibition at Sothebys Maison in Hong Kong of the Piprahwa gems. Photograph: Sotheby's

The Indian government is seeking to repatriate ancient gem relics linked to the Buddhas remains after halting their sale at an auction in Hong Kong.

Sothebys postponed the sale of the Piprahwa gems, due on Wednesday, after the ministry of culture threatened to take legal action against the auction house in Indian and Hong Kong courts and through international bodies for violations of cultural heritage laws.

In a statement, the ministry said it would discuss repatriation of the gems to India with Sothebys and the sellers, three descendants of William Claxton Peppe, a British colonial landowner who, in 1898, excavated the gems on his estate in northern India.

In a legal notice issued to Sothebys on Monday, Indias ministry of culture told the auction house that the gems should be treated as the sacred body of the Buddha and it would be participating in continued colonial exploitation if the sale went ahead.

The letter, posted on the ministrys social media accounts, added that Peppes great-grandson, Chris Peppe, a Los Angeles-based TV director and film editor, lacked the authority to sell the gem relics, which constitute inalienable religious and cultural heritage of India and the global Buddhist community.

There has been a growing international outcry against the sale of the gems, which many Buddhists believe are imbued with the presence of the Buddha and should be treated as corporeal remains.

The 334 gems, which were expected to sell for about HK$100m (9.7m), include amethysts, coral, garnets, pearls, rock crystals, shells and gold, either worked into pendants, beads and other ornaments, or in their natural form.

The gems were originally buried in a dome-shaped funerary monument, called a stupa, in Piprahwa in present-day Uttar Pradesh, India, in about 240-200BC, when they were mixed with some of the cremated remains of the Buddha, who died in about 480BC.

The British crown claimed Peppes find under the 1878 Indian Treasure Trove Act, with the bones and ash presented to the Buddhist monarch King Chulalongkorn of Siam. Most of the 1,800 gems went to the colonial museum in Kolkata, while Peppe was permitted to retain approximately a fifth of them.

Legal experts told the Guardian that the Indian government could pursue legal action even if the gems were sold.

Sameer Jain, a managing partner at PSL advocates and solicitors, India, said the auction could well be in breach of Indian laws including the Antiquities and Art Treasures Act 1972, the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act 1958, and the Indian Treasure Trove Act 1878, as the Indian ministry of culture claimed.

Jain said: These laws vest the ownership of relics in the government of India, whether or not they were exported during the colonialist period. Any export trade without licence is prohibited. The root question would be whether [the gems] were exported out of India legally and whether the Peppes are even owners of these items. It is arguable that the relics were given to the family only for custody.

Noor Kadhim, an art lawyer at the legal consultancy Kadhims and an independent consultant in Fieldfishers art law department, said India could not sue Sothebys under The Hague and the Unesco conventions because it was a private auction house rather than a state museum. She added: If they wish to use these treaties, the more viable path would be to employ them against China, as the host state for Sothebys Hong Kong.

Related: India tries to halt auction of Piprahwa gems found with Buddhas remains

Conan Cheong, a curator and expert in south-east Asian art, welcomed Sothebys decision, saying: This is a rare chance for the Peppes to finally consult with the Buddhist voices raised in protest of the sale in Thailand, Cambodia, Sri Lanka and elsewhere, as well as with the Indian government, to find a truly equitable way to share them with all humanity.

Chris Peppe has been approached for comment. With regards to his rights and those of his two relatives to sell the gems, he previously told the Guardian: Legally, the ownership is unchallenged.

In a statement, Sothebys said: In light of the matters raised by the government of India and with the agreement of the consignors, the auction of the Piprahwa gems of the historical Buddha, scheduled for 7 May, has been postponed. This will allow for discussions between the parties and we look forward to sharing any updates as appropriate.
Some of Queenslands new Labor MPs elected in a huge win that few pollsters saw coming. Photograph: Jono Searle/AAP

Pollsters correctly called that Labor had the most support going into Saturdays election, but all the polls also underestimated Labor on both primary and two-party preferred measures.

While the final results are within the stated margin of error for some of the polls, experts are worried about something else: across all of the polls, the results are too uniform.

They all exaggerated the Coalition. They all underestimated Labor. They all exaggerated One Nation and so on. All of them, says Murray Goot, an emeritus professor of politics at Macquarie University.

And there are 10 of these polls. Roughly [taken] at the same time.

How the polls played out

A simple average of the final polls had Labors two-party preferred at 52.3%, and primary vote at 31.6%. On the current count, these are smaller misses than in the 2019 election, when pollsters incorrectly showed Labor ahead.

But all of the polls this election were wrong in the same direction.

Several pollsters have told Guardian Australia the record number of votes for third parties and the record level of soft and undecided voters made their jobs more difficult  but say most were not too far off the mark in the end.

Essential, along with most polls, accurately picked up that the trend was moving towards Labor during the course of the campaign, says Peter Lewis, the executive director of Essential, who runs Guardian Australias Essential poll.

Additionally our methodology of including undecideds means that with the final 4.8% that declared unsure the week before the poll leaning Labor, the polling captured the momentum, if not the final landslide.

The RedBridge director, Kos Samaras, says there was a lot of heavy backgrounding that the public polls were wrong. RedBridges final poll had Labor at 53% to 47%, and it was showing Labor was doing well in key seats and in Queensland.

We were recording pretty big numbers for Labor and I thought maybe that was an aberration, he says.

Clearly it was not.

The herding effect

There should be some noise in polling, with estimates bouncing around. A month before election day, some on social media were already questioning if the polls were too stable. There were similar concerns by election watchers in 2019.

Adrian Beaumont, an election analyst at the Conversation, suspects herding, when pollsters consciously or unconsciously adjust their results to match those published by their competitors, so they wont be singled out if they are wrong.

Guardian Australia is not accusing any of the pollsters of herding in this campaign.

In the 2019 election, there was such a small spread among the polls that the Nobel prize-winning astrophysicist Brian Schmidt calculated the odds of it being chance at greater than 100,000 to one.

The polls were afraid of showing a Labor victory by a landslide margin, Beaumont says of the polls this year. Thats why they were out  the polls understated Labors vote.

If you go back a couple of weeks, Roy Morgan had Labor winning 55.5% of the two-party vote. But then in the week before the election they came back down to 53%. They stayed at 53 in the final poll, which was published on the Friday before the election. If they hadnt herded they may well have been the most accurate of pollsters.

In response to questions, Roy Morgan says there were no changes in sampling and methodology over the final weeks of the campaign, except to stop survey respondents nominating candidates who were not running in their electorates after the final candidate list was announced.

This is standard practice for pollsters during election campaigns, Roy Morgans poll manager, Julian McCrann, says. If there was any herding it was towards us  we led the pack and picked up the swing to the ALP well before any other pollster.

McCrann also points out that several projections now show the final result will be about 54-46, which is closer to a 53-47 result [final published Roy Morgan Poll] than a 55.5-44.5 result.

Method mixes

Goot dismisses the idea there could have been a late swing towards the Labor party in the days after polls were collecting data. There were five polls conducted within a day or two before the election, he says, and they were no more accurate than earlier polls.

I cant speak for other pollsters, but as far as Essential is concerned there is no herding by us, Lewis says.

We ran double samples through the campaign but stuck to the methodology which we disclose through the Australian Polling Council.

Theres a lot of art to polling, including making assumptions about how preferences will flow, and the choice of how to weight survey samples so that they match the population at large.

Throughout the campaign, some election analysts showed these methodological assumptions can have huge impacts, by recalculating published polls using preference flows from the last election rather than respondents stated preferences.

There was a fair discrepancy [among polls] depending on what you did, Goot says.

In one case it was a difference of at least two percentage points between going with one [method] or another.

But there is no consensus on which method is more accurate.

Sample sourcing

Goot thinks herding was possible in this election  but without transparency its difficult to know. Either way, he says, the industry has more fundamental problems  such as whether survey samples cover everyone who should be included, and how pollsters handled nonresponse groups unable or unwilling to participate.

Modern polling samples arent randomly drawn from the population. Rather, companies get access to panels of people from online databases. These databases are put together from a variety of sources, including loyalty programs, but we know very little about them.

Related: PM launches attack on Max Chandler-Mather as Greens leader Adam Bandt projected to lose seat

What we suspect is they contain a very small percentage of all possible people that could be in it, and that should be in it, Goot says.

[Pollsters] all say that theyve got the best selection to draw on, but one possibility is that most of them go to the same source, and that doesnt have all that many people in it. Some of the people answering the polls may be in more than one [poll].

Lewis says sourcing samples is a challenge, but that Essentials outreach team work hard to minimise the need for weighting.

McCrann says Roy Morgan interviews about 1,500 Australians each week. And that is via multi-mode interviewing including online, telephone and face-to-face interviewing and we arent using the same databases of any rival pollster, he says.

How does weighting work?

While polling companies request a spread of genders, ages and locations for their panels, not all respond, requiring them to proportionately scale up or down those that do  weighting.

But weighting relies on the assumption that those who do and dont respond to surveys are roughly similar. If this isnt true, or the number of responses is very small, it can introduce other issues.

If, for example, the young people who respond are going to vote Green in reasonably large numbers, and the young people that dont respond are going to vote Green in much smaller numbers, then if you weight youre going to exaggerate the Green vote, Goot says.

Even after the 2019 election polling failure, theres little transparency  but Goot believes there was a good step towards it with the polling council, formally established in 2020.

Still, he notes, not all the pollsters are members. And members dont have to disclose very much.

They have to tell us what factors they weight by, but not how they do this. They have to put up their questions. They dont tell us anything much about sampling, response rates or any of the other things that can go wrong with the sample.
The Government must do more to protect artists from AI developers as a data Bill moves through parliament, award-winning producer Giles Martin has said.

Creatives, industry leaders and politicians gathered in central London to call on the Government to scrap plans that would allow AI developers to use creative content without permission or payment.

It comes ahead of a parliamentary debate where MPs are due to discuss the Data (Use and Access) Bill which primarily covers data-sharing agreements, but has received a backlash from the likes of UK Music after transparency safeguards were removed at committee stage.

Martin, a Grammy-winning English record producer and son of Beatles producer George Martin, attended the event claiming that the Government is not doing enough to protect artists.

Music creators and politicians take part in a protest calling on the Government to ditch plans to allow AI tech firms to use their work without payment or permission (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

He said: The Government seem to be more and more influenced by large technology companies, seem more impressed by them.

(If) Paul McCartney today writes Yesterday, that should belong to him, or he should just say what happens to that, or his voice. He should say what happens to his voice and right now, with the Government, theyre not doing enough to protect artists.

If you make something, if something is yours, it shouldnt be taken by a company and used without your permission. Its as simple as that.

UK Music claims the Bill would put creatives at risk after amendments put forward by Baroness Kidron to ensure transparency and international compliance safeguards were removed.

The protest saw industry leaders and creatives call on the Government to make changes to the Bill to ensure that companies training generative AI models, such as ChatGPT, disclose whether work by a human creator has been used and protect creatives under existing copyright rules.

Martin added: I think we should be worried about protecting artists, and actually not just artists. I think peoples own personalities, their own voices, their own creations. I think thats what needs to grow. I think we need to look after the individual. I think tech companies will look after themselves.

Giles Martin takes part in the protest (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

Currently, British songs, films, paintings and news articles are protected under UK copyright law but a recent Government consultation proposed that it could offer tech companies free access to British music, films, books and more in order to train generative AI models without permission or payment, with creators required to opt-out if they do not want their work to be used.

Alex Sobel, MP for Leeds and Central and Headingley, who also attended the event, tabled an amendment to the Bill, requiring greater transparency from tech companies, ensuring that creatives know when their work is being used and how.

Mr Sobel said: Im very concerned about creator content being ingested by AI without any traceability.

Its really important for creators, creative industries, that we have traceability, that we know whats going in, so artists and creative companies are not completely deluded of income in the future.

It could absolutely ruin the creative industries in the UK.

The consequences of the Bill, if the amendments do not go through, could point to a future with no income in music according to Mr Sobel.

Music creators and politicians gathered on the Albert Embankment (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

Describing how this would impact new artists if protections are not added to the Bill, Mr Sobel said: (AI models would) ingest a few different catalogues of similar artists, Dua Lipa, Calvin Harris, etc. You create a song, the song sounds just like them. The streamers just put those AI-generated songs.

Artists dont get anything. Record companies dont get anything because nobody knows what was ingested in so people are listening to content but nobodys earning any income. And what happens in future? No new artists come through because theres no income in music. So then we just have legacy industry, and nothing new.

What we dont want to do is stop progress. All we do is ensure that those creators and creative industries who generate the content are being recognised and enumerated.

I think theres a lack of understanding about the real significant dangers, because its a new area, because its complicated, because its confusing.

There isnt just one form of AI. Theres generative AI, which is this one were worried about. But theres also assistive AI, where artists might use AI to create songs, thats completely different, and people can easily get confused between different types of AI and what they do and how they operate.

Lord Watson of Wyre Forest, chairman of UK Music, said: The UK music industry has always embraced tech. Weve been at the forefront of using tech to create new sounds to give new energy to different generations of music. Thats not going away. But what were saying is there is a danger with this particular technology.

Were at a critical point in the future of British music. Give our creators and music and businesses protections they need and deserve, and we can carry on going forward with the British music industry in good condition.

A Government spokesperson said: As it stands, the UKs current regime for copyright and AI is holding back the creative industries and AI sector from realising their full potential  and that cannot continue.

Currently, creatives are not being fairly compensated for their content and only the largest rights holders have the power to effectively assert their rights.

We want to enhance their ability to be paid for the use of their material. UK AI developers also face greater innovation barriers than their international competitors, pushing AI innovation overseas.

The Governments objectives are to deliver a solution which will ensure increased control and transparency for rights holders and access to high-quality material to train leading AI models in the UK.
Protesters have demonstrated outside the High Commission of India in support of Pakistan, after Indias missile strikes.

At least 26 people, including a child, were killed and dozens wounded after India fired missiles across the border into Pakistani-controlled territory.

Meanwhile, Indias army said at least 15 civilians had been killed in a Pakistani shelling on its side of the de facto border, as it confirmed the strikes were in response to a militant attack on Indian tourists in Pahalgam last month.

URGENT: JOIN THE PROTEST TODAY



Last night, Indian forces launched an unprovoked attack inside Pakistans territory, targeting innocent civilians. We cannot stay silent!



Join us today  Wednesday, 07 May 2025 at 5:30 PM

Outside the Indian High Commission, Aldwych, London (WC2B pic.twitter.com/5YDNGq3sEH  Mubashar Chaudhry Official (@MubasharFCA) May 7, 2025

The UK Foreign Office has warned Brits not to travel to parts of India and Pakistan following the deadly escalation in conflict between the two nations.

Protesters gathered at the High Commission of India in Aldwych on Tuesday evening, to join hands, raise flags and defend Pakistans honour.

A post on social media read: Join us - raise your voice for Pakistan. Overseas Pakistanis stand against Indian war agenda.

Dozens of men and women protested outside the building carrying both Pakistan and Azad Kashmir flags.

They chanted: Mr Modi no terrorism in reference to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi , We want peace and Long live Pakistan .

One protester called the recent actions by Dehli an illegal attack and said the claim they were targeting terrorist bases were bulls**t.

He said innocent people were killed and condemned the strike on a Mosque in Kashmir.

The crowds cried out: What do we want? Peace. When do we want it? Now.

Officers from Met Police are in attendance to ensure the protest passes peacefully.

A Indian flag outside the London High Commission (Bill Bowkett)

A spokesperson for Metropolitan Police said: Were aware of a planned protest outside the Indian High Commission this evening.

Officers will be deployed to ensure it takes place peacefully and that any incidents or offences are swiftly dealt with.

An Indian flag was displayed outside ahead of the protest.

India claims it has evidence pointing towards the clear involvement of Pakistan-based terrorists in the Pahalgam attack which took place last month, but Pakistan has denied any link to the attack.

India and Pakistan have exchanged fire over Kashmir (AP)

Missiles hit six locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and in the country's eastern Punjab province yesterday, killing at least 26 people, including women and children, said Pakistan's military spokesperson, Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif.

Officials said another 38 people were injured by the strikes, and another five people were killed in Pakistan during exchanges of fire across the border later in the day.

Meanwhile, India said it hit infrastructure used by militants linked to last months massacre of tourists in the Indian-controlled portion of Kashmir.

The Foreign Office has warned anyone in the region against travelling within 10 kilometres of the India-Pakistan border.

Fire fighters douse smoke coming out from the debris of an aircraft near Akhnoor (AP)

A statement said: On the night of 6 May (UK Time), the Indian Ministry of Defence stated it had struck nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

In response, there are reports of Pakistani artillery fire across the Line of Control.

On the night of 6 May (UK Time) Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority indicated that it was closing Pakistan airspace for at least 48 hours. There are reports of flights being diverted. British nationals should contact their airline for up-to-date information.

We are continuing to monitor the situation closely. British nationals should stay up to date with our travel advice and follow the advice of local authorities.
Beijing, Moscow set to further safeguard intl order

08:23, May 07, 2025 By Zhang Yunbi ( China Daily

Aircraft fly in formation on Monday over Red Square in Moscow, Russia, during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which will mark the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War. (Photo/Xinhua)

No matter how the international situation changes, the momentum of China and Russia's commitment to friendship will remain constant and dynamic, officials and scholars said, as President Xi Jinping starts a state visit to Russia on Wednesday.

During his four-day stay until Saturday, Xi will also attend the celebrations in Moscow marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War.

This year also marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in China's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War.

As a sign of the high level of bilateral relations, the two countries have publicly exchanged support for each other in organizing these anniversaries when speaking about their bilateral agenda for this year.

At a meeting with Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Moscow on April 1, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that he "looks forward to the Chinese side coming to Russia to attend commemorative events", and the two nations should continue to send strong signals to the world on their strengthening strategic collaboration in the face of the volatile international situation.

Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui said the two countries "join hands to defend the victorious outcome of World War II, jointly advocate international justice, and safeguard the postwar international order as well as the central role of the United Nations in the international system".

"During this year, important high-level contacts between China and Russia will once again write a new chapter in the bilateral relationship," he told Russian media on April 21.

Analysts noted that in recent years the two countries have strengthened political mutual trust, continuously deepened pragmatic cooperation, seen thriving people-to-people cooperation, and more closely collaborated in the international arena.

Wang Wen, dean of Renmin University of China's Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies, noted that President Putin has made it clear that the development of relations with China is a strategic choice made by Russia with a long-term perspective, is by no means a tactical move, and is not subject to the influence of a certain event or to the interference of external factors.

"We also need to basically have strategic confidence in China-Russia relations," Wang said.

As part of the two countries' frequent high-level exchanges, Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang met with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk in Boao, Hainan province, in March, and with Russian Minister of Energy Sergei Tsivilev in Beijing last month.

Members of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Ceremonial Guard Brigade participate in a rehearsal on Saturday for the Victory Day parade in Moscow. (Photo/Xinhua)

Foreign Minister Wang Yi told Russia Today in an interview last month that, "For such major countries and neighbors with global influence as China and Russia, neither alliance nor confrontation is in the fundamental and long-term interests of the two countries and their peoples."

Su Xiaohui, an associate research fellow at the China Institute of International Studies, said that friendship for generations and never being an enemy to each other is "an important lesson that China and Russia have learned in their interactions over the past decades".

"The two sides are willing to carry on this consensus", as it serves as a cornerstone for advancing the further development of relations between the two countries and "brings more certainty to regional security and world peace", Su said.

She also noted that "the world is glad to see that the two major countries are able to maintain communication, avoid miscalculation, strengthen cooperation and share responsibility".

Last year, the trade volume between the two countries reached $244.8 billion, up 1.9 percent year-on-year.

China has remained Russia's top trade partner for 15 consecutive years, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

The two sides are making solid progress in cooperation in fields including the economy and trade, investment, energy, and aerospace, and they are expanding cooperation in emerging fields such as the digital economy, e-commerce, biomedicine, and science and technology innovation, observers said.

"China is willing to continue to contribute to the development of the world economy with Russia," Xiang Bo, Chinese consul general in Kazan, said in an opinion piece published in Russian media on April 9.

He compared China-Russia cooperation to a high-speed train, saying that "while the scenery changes and the weather changes on the way, the direction of the train will not change, and the rhythm of its steady progress will not change".

Feng Shaolei, director of the Center for Russian Studies at East China Normal University in Shanghai, said at a forum in March that "China and Russia both advocate the independent and autonomous management of internal and external relations, and the relationship between the two countries is the mainstay of the world's transformation".

Li Hai, Chinese consul general in Irkutsk, wrote in an article in March that both China and Russia are major countries in science and technology, and they "should firmly advocate global scientific and technological cooperation and fair competition, and oppose technological blockades and scientific and technological bullying".

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
Daisy Blakemore-Creedon (right), pictured with Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor, was accused of being on the payroll of Benjamin Netanyahu - LinkedIn

One of Britains youngest councillors has resigned from Labour after claiming she was branded a racist for calling for CCTV to be installed in minicabs.

Daisy Blakemore-Creedon, 19, left Peterborough city councils Labour group after allegedly being bullied and subjected to anti-Semitic abuse.

She claimed she was falsely accused of racism after raising concerns about the safety of both passengers and drivers in the citys council-licensed minicabs, many of which are operated by Asian men.

She said some councillors accused her and her wider family of targeting fellow Asian Labour councillors.

The abuse allegedly began after she argued within the Labour group in favour of CCTV being installed in council-licensed minicabs, a move she says was voted down by the partys minority-ruling administration.

Ms Blakemore-Creedon, who was Britains youngest councillor when she was elected last year, stated: These accusations [of racism] are completely unfounded and deeply hurtful.

I have also raised a formal complaint regarding these matters, which has now been delayed twice, reportedly due to concerns about the political impact on the party, rather than a focus on justice or resolution.

Daisy Blakemore-Creedon was elected a week before she was due to sit her A-Level exams - Paul Marriott

The councillor, whose mother is Jewish, told The Telegraph she had subsequently been subjected to anti-Semitic comments. The remarks appeared on the account of one prominent Labour supporter in Peterborough accusing her of being on the payroll of Benjamin Netanyahu, Israels prime minister  despite her never having commented on Israeli affairs.

Ms Blakemore-Creedon said: This person used the cab safety issue to make an anti-Semitic comment based on my Jewish heritage. It was horrible. I reported this to the Labour Party, but nothing has been done.

She continued: Im so disappointed with all this because my morals have always been Labour. Labour is in my blood. My grandfather was a major supporter. But my entire family have been left really disappointed as well.

When I argued for more safety measures in minicabs it led to a lot of ugly comments by people in the Labour group. I got messages from fellow Labour councillors accusing me of racism because lots of the cab drivers are Asian.

But I wasnt targeting Asian drivers. I was talking about safeguarding for everyone, passengers and drivers.

Support as an independent

Cllr Blakemore-Creedon added: If people dont want me as their councillor, Id have been happy to trigger a by-election. But Ive had lots of my ward residents express their support and say theyll support me as an independent.

Her claims are understood to have caused divisions within Peterboroughs Labour Party, which formed a minority administration with 19 councillors following the 2024 local elections.

Cllr Blakemore-Creedon was elected as councillor for the Fletton and Woodston ward that year at just 18 years old, a week before she was due to take her A-level exams.

Left with no confidence

She stated this week: These experiences have left me with no confidence that I can continue to serve residents as a member of the Labour group, given the hostile environment I have faced simply for speaking out.

Moving forward, I will continue to represent my residents as an independent councillor. Without the constraints of the party whip, I will be free to vote solely in the best interests of my community, without pressure to conform to internal party agendas.

A Labour Party spokesman said: All complaints are assessed thoroughly in line with the Labour Partys rules and procedures.

Peterborough city council has been approached for comment.
Safe confinement shelter severely damaged after Russian drone attack in February 2025. Photograph: Julia Kochetova/The Guardian

A Russian Shahed drone costing up to 75,000 is estimated to have inflicted tens of millions worth of damage to the site of the Chornobyl nuclear power plant, according to initial assessments and engineering experts.

The cost of a full fix is likely to be borne by western governments including the UK, because initial estimates are that a complete repair will cost more than the 25m available in a special international contingency fund.

The strike in mid February did not cause an immediate radiological risk, but it significantly damaged the 1.5bn containment structure built in 2017 to encase the destroyed reactor and is likely to take months if not years to completely repair.

The 110-metre high steel structure at Chornobyl was hit before 2am on 14 February, with sensors registering something like a 6 to 7 magnitude earthquake, according to Serhiy Bokov, the chief engineer on duty. But we clearly understood it wasnt that, he said.

The attack  quickly concluded to be caused by a drone flying below at a level where it could not be detected by radar  punctured a 15-sq-metre hole in the outer roof. It also caused a particularly damaging, complex smouldering fire to the inner cladding of the structure that took over a fortnight to put out.

Consisting of two double arches and longer than two jumbo jets, the New Safe Confinement (NSC) was completed in 2017 to secure the hastily built, unstable Soviet-era sarcophagus, which covers over Chornobyls ill-fated reactor number four, the site of the worlds worst nuclear disaster in April 1986.

But the attack in February has rendered the sarcophagus open to the elements again, meaning that radioactive dust could get out and rainwater in, though the countrys environmental protection ministry says the radiation background is currently within normal level and is under constant control.

More significantly, the confinement structure is now more vulnerable in the longer term to rusting due to greater exposure to the elements and damage to the cladding. Two hundred small boreholes were also drilled into the structure in the effort to douse the cladding fire with water.

Not fixing it is not an option, said Eric Schmieman, an American engineer who worked on the design and build of the Chornobyl shelter for 15 years. A complete repair, he said would cost a minimum of tens of millions of dollars and it could easily go to hundreds of millions with the repairs taking months to years, he added.

Previously the shelter was intended to have a 100-year design life, allowing time to decommission the sarcophagus and nuclear waste below, but this is now in doubt without it being repaired, Schmieman added. Unlike other large metal structures, such as the Eiffel Tower, it was never possible to repaint it to prevent corrosion.

Below the sarcophagus lies a highly radioactive lava like mass, a mix of 200 tonnes of uranium from Chornobyl reactor number four and 5,000 tonnes of sand, lead and boric acid dropped on to the site by Soviet helicopters in the immediate aftermath of the disaster caused by the reactor going out of control.

A more detailed impact assessment is expected to be released in May, but the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), which funded the building of the shelter and is involved in the post bombing analysis, said it is clear that the attack has caused significant damage.

Other sources, familiar with the assessment exercise, told the Guardian that Schmiemans estimates appeared correct. Though the EBRD holds 25m in funds to allow for emergency work, it said significantly more funding is required to tackle long-term decommissioning challenges thrown up by the incident.

A similar calculation was made by Ukraines environmental protection ministry. It is likely that eliminating the consequences of Russian aggression will require more funds than are currently available in the International Cooperation Account for Chornobyl [the 25m EBRD fund], said the ministry in a statement.

When the attack took place in February, Moscow blamed Ukraine. Russias foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said the incident was a provocation premeditated by the Kyiv regime. However, Ukrainian prosecutors believe, having reviewed the drones trajectory from the north, that the attack was a possibly intentional strike by Russian forces and a potential war crime.

Shaun Burnie, a senior nuclear specialist with Greenpeace Ukraine, said he believed the attack would have consequences lasting decades and said that it had taken place because Putin and the Russian state has conducted a deliberate form of nuclear terror against Ukraine and Europe that has gone unpunished.

Further cash for repairs is most likely to come from western governments. Twenty-six countries contributed to the cost of the original shelter, including the US, UK, France, Germany and even Russia  of which the vast steel arch structure cost 1.5bn out of a total 2.1bn fund. Others also made donations, including Turkey.

Home to the remains of a nuclear reactor that went out of control and exploded in April 1986, the Chornobyl site is seven miles from the border with Russias ally Belarus. It was occupied by Russian soldiers trying to capture Kyiv in February 2022, and has remained on the frontline after Ukraine regained it that April.

Two people were killed in the 1986 disaster and 28 more died from radiation poisoning in its immediate aftermath, while 350,000 were evacuated from nearby towns. Two exclusion zones remain in place, one 18 miles (30km) from the plant, where small numbers of people live and work, and a second at 6 miles, including the ghostly, abandoned town of Pripyat, a relic from an unlamented Soviet era.

Tourists were allowed to visit until the Russian full-scale invasion, but now the site lies in a military border zone, complicating decontamination efforts. Russian soldiers dug up contaminated earth as they built trenches in sight of the reactor shelter, but Ukrainian soldiers shipped in sand to build their own fortifications.

Debris recovered from the site led Ukrainian prosecutors to conclude that the damage was done by a Shahed 136, an Iranian-designed delta wing drone that has become Russias most frequently used long-range attack weapon. Now made at sites in Russia, their $50,000 to $100,000 cost is far below the amount of damage caused.

Ukrainian officials say the first step will be to develop and implement a temporary seal to the hole in the shelter, though Schmieman cautions that one thing that is not obvious from distance is that as you go up the shelter object, the radiation dose gets higher. So you have to train and cycle workers based on safe annual dose limits.

A radical option for full repair, probably only viable in peacetime, would be to slip the shelter back along a set of rails on which it was originally built 180 metres away, to reduce the radiation exposure for the workers. But that would be a multi-year project Schmieman estimated.

Remotely operated cranes hanging from the confinement shelter were intended to dismantle the sarcophagus and nuclear material below, and the strike hit a point near the maintenance garage Bokov said. That too may impair the plans to gradually dismantle and decommission the disaster site below.

We designed this building for lots of contingencies, but we didnt design it for war, Schmieman said. Though most nuclear plants are designed to survive an aircraft falling on them, we didnt do that because after the accident in 1986 there has been a no-fly zone at Chornobyl. We had thought nothing would be flying overhead.
The timing of a Google search for quicklime on a seized laptop is extremely important, the trial of a man accused of murdering his wife has heard.

The trial of Richard Satchwell, who is accused of the murder of his wife Tina, has heard that a search for the substance was found on a laptop seized from their Cork home by gardai in 2017.

Satchwell, 58, from Grattan Street in Youghal is accused of murdering Tina Satchwell at their home between March 19 and 20 2017.

Satchwell, who is originally from Leicester in England, denies murder.

He reported his wife missing on May 11 2017, weeks after the date he told police she had left their home.

On Wednesday, Detective Garda David Kelleher told the court a Google search for quicklime was made on Friday March 24 2017 at 9.08pm on a laptop seized from the Satchwell home in 2017, and seconds later a video was viewed that showed quicklime and water reacting.

He told the Central Criminal Court there are a number of uses for quicklime, including as a building material and as an odour suppressant in mass burials.

Defence barrister Brendan Grehan SC suggested that it was used on bodies to help with the decomposition process.

Mr Kelleher said the timing of the search was extremely important, around four days after Mrs Satchwells death, considering what we know now about where Tinas body was.

Mrs Satchwells remains were found in a shallow grave beneath a concrete floor under a set of stairs in their home in October 2023.

Mr Kelleher also went through a number of emails sent from a RickieSat account and an International Monkey Rescue account and texts sent between Satchwells phone and an Airport 3 number.

He told the court Satchwell was attempting to purchase two marmoset monkeys, called Terry and Thelma, over a period two years, from 2015 to March 2017.

He said that Satchwell sent significant sums of money to a monkey rescue group that he agreed appeared to be a scam.

The two monkeys never arrived, he told the court.

On February 23 2017, at 6.05pm, the court heard an email from International Monkey Rescue was sent to RickieSat, and suggested they could figure out the payment.

A response from RickieSat on the same date, signed off as Richard, said that he had lost his job over going all over Ireland to send you money.

In a later response, the monkey rescue account said we will figure the money issue and let you know and the RickieSat account responded Ok many thanks.

On March 9 2017, the monkey rescue address said, you never took our last message seriously, and the RickieSat account later said, what do you mean by this and added, my wife is saying she is going to leave me over this.

The court was also shown 299 text exchanges between Richard Satchwells device and Airport 3 account between 2016 and April 2017, which relates to the purchase of marmoset monkeys.

On March 10 2017 a text from the Satchwell device said: Hello Mr James I would love to be able to do more but people here will not loan me money because I owe them already so I dont see what I can do because it will be a month before I can send more money. R.

On March 20 2017 he said: Hello Mr James Im in a mess right now because my wife has said she is leaving me over this so please let the organisation know. Richard.

He also said that a forensic accountant was provided with relevant material to examine the Satchwells income and establish the claim that Mrs Satchwell had left with 26,000 euro.

Mr Kelleher said there was one bank account for the household in the name of Richard Satchwell which was always in the red.

The Satchwells did not have the capacity to accumulate anything near 26,000 euro, Mr Kelleher told the court.

Mr Kelleher also explained an exchange of 156 texts sent between March and July 2017 with a cousin of Tina Satchwell.

This included a text at the end of March from Satchwells phone offering our big chest freezer, which received no response, and a text in July to say he had found a suitcase which was the same as Mrs Satchwells.

Earlier, Superintendent Ann Marie Twomey told the court she could not comment on why a previous investigative team did not carry out an intrusive search of the couples home in 2017.

Richard Satchwell denies murdering his wife (Brian Lawless/PA)

Ms Twomey, who was appointed senior investigating officer to the case in August 2021, said she was not involved in the case before then.

Asked by Mr Grehan if she had thought the previous search of Grattan Street was a thorough one, Ms Twomey said: It was not an intrusive search or an invasive search.

She said she had no involvement with the investigation at that stage.

Asked if she expected that the 2017 search would have sought to unearth the remains of Tina Satchwell, Ms Twomey said that the warrant said the search related to assault causing harm.

Tina Satchwell was reported missing in 2017. Her remains were later found in a shallow grave under a set of stairs in her home in 2023 (Family handout/PA)

Mr Grehan suggested there was nothing to prevent gardai from conducting invasive search in June 2017.

I cannot answer the question, Ms Twomey said, because she could not represent the beliefs or thoughts of the previous investigation team.

The team in 2017 had lawful authority to be in the house, but in relation to what they did and didnt do, I cant answer that because I dont know their thought process or belief at that time.

Ms Twomey told the court she was appointed as the senior investigating officer four years after Mrs Satchwell went missing.

She said at the time she was a detective inspector attached to the Cork North Garda division and had no previous involvement in Mrs Satchwells case.

She said that it took months for her and Mr Kelleher to review the material in the incident room, which included witness statements, CCTV, details of the search of Tinas home in 2017, inquiries at ports and airports, inquiries with social welfare and the passport office, media appeals by Gardai and Satchwell, and inquiries into reported sightings.

After they had familiarised themselves with the material, they carried out further inquiries and additional lines of investigation, including engaging with a forensic accountant, a forensic archaeologist and with the PSNI.

She said that by the end of January and the beginning of February 2022, she had reasonable grounds to believe that Mrs Satchwell was not a missing person and had been unlawfully killed.

Flowers and messages left near to the scene in Youghal, Co Cork, where Tina Satchwells body was found (Brian Lawless/PA)

She said she came to this conclusion because despite extensive inquiries carried out, there was no suggestion that Tina was a living person.

She said by the end of August 2022, she had formed the view that Satchwell was a suspect in his wifes disappearance and death.

When asked why Gardai did not act on that information, Ms Twomey said the investigation was very much alive and active and there were other lines of inquiry that needed to be pursued.

She said among those lines of inquiry was engaging with forensic archaeologist Dr Niamh McCullagh.

I was looking for Tina Satchwell, she told the court.

She said that between September 2022 and September 2023, she formed reasonable grounds that a search of the Youghal home was necessary.

She went to the District Court in early October and detailed going to the house on October 10 2023 and informing Richard Satchwell of who she was and the warrant she was executing for an intrusive search.

She said that he replied that he understood the situation.

Richard Satchwell was described as being very co-operative with the Gardai in their investigation (Brian Lawless/PA)

Earlier on Wednesday, Detective Sergeant David Noonan told the court that Satchwell was very co-operative with the Gardai.

He said the cognitive interview technique he conducted with Satchwell on June 20 2021, which was held for up to four hours, can only be done with a co-operative witness.

He said Satchwell was not considered a suspect in his wifes disappearance at the time of the interview, but was considered a significant witness.

The jury was also shown Google location data for a Samsung device seized from the Satchwell home and CCTV footage of Satchwell at Youghal Post Office and Aldi in Dungarvan on March 20 2017.

The trial continues on Thursday.
Officers gather on the beach during a search after a deadly panga-style boat capsized off Torrey Pines state beach in California on Monday. Photograph: Hayne Palmour IV/Reuters

A 10-year-old Indian girl remains missing at sea after a boat carrying migrants capsized off San Diego on Monday morning. One of the bodies recovered is the girls 14-year-old brother. According to the Department of Justice, the familys mother is hospitalized while their father remains in a coma.

The US Coast Guard announced it had stopped its search on Monday evening. The justice department stated that of the original nine people reported missing, all except the 10-year-old girl had been found. Two Mexican nationals were killed in the boats capsizing as well.

The vessel, a blue panga-style boat, a type of boat historically used for fishing, was more than 20ft long and had a damaged engine. The boat washed up on San Diegos Torrey Pines beach, and was spotted by local hikers at about 6.30am on Monday.

Shawn Gibson, a special agent in charge of the US Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agency, said the incident was a stark reminder of the dangers posed by maritime smuggling.

The ruthless smuggling of undocumented individuals is not only illegal, its deadly, Gibson said of the incident, which occurred about 30 miles north of the US-Mexico border. Read said ocean conditions off the San Diego county coast were rough at the time, with 7ft seas reported.

Related: Three people killed and seven missing after boat capsizes off San Diego coast

According to the justice department, border patrol agents located eight of the originally nine missing migrants after stopping two vehicles tied to the boat incident. The justice department has charged five Mexican nationals in relation to the event. Two were arrested at the beach on charges of bringing in aliens resulting in death and bringing in aliens for financial gain, while three were arrested later with charges of transportation of illegal aliens.

Smuggling off the California coast has long been a risky alternative for migrants to avoid heavily guarded land borders. In 2023, eight people were killed when two migrant smuggling boats approached a San Diego beach amid heavy fog. One boat capsized in the surf. It was one of the deadliest maritime smuggling cases in waters off the US coast.

Human rights groups such as Human Rights Watch, the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and Amnesty International have stated that strict border policies drive people around the world to riskier routes, resulting in increased death and human rights abuses.
Poor Lilah! The shelter dog is such an absolute cutie, but yet no one has saved her from shelter life. The dog has been at Dallas Animal Services in Dallas, Texas for so long and just wants one person to notice her. Wont someone come along and give this good girl the attention she needs?

Seeing the dog patiently wait for someone to come and save her is so difficult. How could this be? Shes been at the shelter for 45 days, but thats 45 days too long.

In a video made to share the dogs story, it shows her looking out a window in the facility where shes being held. Shes waiting for her human! How long will she have to keep waiting before someone gives her a home?

Lilah has been at the shelter for 45 days, and all she wanted was to crawl into your lap and be held, the videos text overlay reads.

Related: Little Dog Who's the Last One of Her Family to Leave Shelter Just Wants a 'Gentle Home'

People in the comments section were so distraught. They hoped that Lilah would get adopted ASAP.

Shes beautiful. I hope she finds a good home soon! wrote one person.

Adopt this beautiful shelter dog in DALLAS TEXAS!!! someone else exclaimed.

What an awesome dog! Someone go get this special girl! cheered another person.

I pray she gets a forever home soon, one person commented.

Adopting From Dallas Animal Services

You can make all the difference to a dog like Lilah. All it takes is someone to open up their heart and home to this sweet girl. Lilah is currently available on the Dallas Animal Services website. All you need to do is apply! Just head to the website and put in an application.

Heres what the shelter had to say about Lilah: Lilah seems to be a laid-back and gentle soul who enjoys a calm environment. She often feels most comfortable around other gentle dogs and may occasionally communicate when she needs some space, they wrote.

So as you can see, Lilah really is such a good pupper. She just needs to find the right person out there who matches her energy. That person could be you!



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.
Head coach Simone Inzaghi called it a monstrous performance and more than one Italian newspaper branded it mythical after Inter Milans stunning 4-3 extra-time Champions League semi-final win over Barcelona.

Dozens of Inter fans had headed for the San Siro exits after Raphinha put Barca 3-2 up in the 87th minute, and they would not be let back in once 37-year-old Francesco Acerbi levelled three minutes into time added on to force another half an hour of play.

That meant they missed Davide Frattesi curling in a 99th-minute winner that sealed a 7-6 aggregate victory and ultimately settled a classic of a last-four tie  the joint highest score in a semi matching Liverpools 7-6 win over Roma in 2017/18.

First of all, we have to congratulate Barcelona, Nerazzurri boss Inzaghi said.

We faced a really strong team, and it took a super Inter side to win. The players delivered two monstrous performances to reach this final, and Im very proud of them  they gave everything. With our heart, we overcame every obstacle.

Frattesi  who also scored a late goal to see off Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals  celebrated his goal so vigorously, climbing the fences to try to reach the fans, he said he almost had to come off.

I was fortunate to see out the game, he told Sky Sports Italia.

I was celebrating so much I was dizzy and nearly had a blackout!

Frattesi was not the only hero for Inter. Yann Sommer made two critical saves against 17-year-old Barca forward Lamine Yamal, the first to prevent a winner soon after Acerbis equaliser, then again with a superb one-handed stop in the 113th minute.

It was a special save, Sommer said. I will remember it for the rest of my life.

Inter had taken a 2-0 half-time lead through Lautaro Martinezs goal and Hakan Calhanoglus penalty, but Eric Garcia and Dani Olmo brought Barca level before Raphinha hit what looked like a late winner, only for it to all change again.

Hansi Flicks frustrations were obvious in a tense press conference with the Barca coach.

We are all disappointed as we put so much into this game, said the German, who was booked for his protests during the match.

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick clashed with officials during the match (Antonio Calanni/AP)

Some 50-50 decisions all went Inters way, but thats how it goes. I am proud of the team. I think the result is unfair and that some of the referees decisions were very good but not in our favour.

Midfielder Pedri went further in his criticism of Polish referee Szymon Marciniak, with Barca unhappy over Inters penalty.

This isnt the first time this has happened to us with this referee, Pedri told reporters.

UEFA should look into it. There are things I dont understand.
Smokey Robinson at the 2019 Tribeca film festival in New York. Photograph: Charles Sykes/Invision/AP

The Motown legend William Smokey Robinson has been accused of sexual assault and misconduct by four women  identified only as Jane Does 1, 2, 3 and 4  who worked as housekeepers for the Robinsons.

A complaint filed in Los Angeles superior court on 6 May lists charges including sexual battery, false imprisonment, negligence and gender violence. The complaint seeks $50m total in damages for the four women.

The lawsuit also names Robinsons wife, Frances Robinson, and lists a litany of alleged labor violations, including failure to pay minimum wage, failure to pay overtime, inaccurate wage statements and hostile work environment.

Smokey Robinsons towering status was built from decades in the music business, starting with his founding of the Motown group the Miracles in 1955. Robinson, 85, claims credit on more than 4,000 songs, with production credits including the Temptations and Marvin Gaye, and he has spots in both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Halls of Fame.

According to the complaint, filed by Los Angeles-based firm Harris & Hayden, Robinsons larger-than-life status was an intimidating factor in coming forward with the allegations. Attorney John Harris, speaking at a Los Angeles news conference, contrasted Robinsons status with that of his accusers.

Theyre Hispanic women who were employed by the Robinsons earning below minimum wage, Harris said. As low-wage women in vulnerable positions, they lacked the resources and options necessary to protect themselves from sexual assaults.

Harris emphasized the vulnerability of Robinsons accusers.

They all feared missing a payday and not being able to pay their rent or buy food for their families, Harris said.

The complaint shows a pattern not just in the accusers backgrounds, but in their allegations. Jane Does 1, 3 and 4 all allege Robinson sexually assaulted them in the blue bedroom of his Chatsworth residence, and laying down a towel to protect the bed sheets before the assaults. Jane Doe 4s account includes allegations of rape at Robinsons Las Vegas and Bell Canyon homes. Jane Doe 2s allegations state that Robinson raped her in the laundry room and garage of his Chatsworth residence, where closed-circuit cameras were unable to see.

We believe Mr Robinson is a sick and serial rapist that must be stopped, Harris said.

All four women also allege a hostile work environment from Frances Robinson, and state that she consistently used ethnically pejorative words and language. The complaint states that she failed to prevent her husbands sexual assaults, despite having full knowledge of his prior acts of sexual misconduct, having settled cases with other women that suffered and experienced similar sexual assaults perpetrated by him.

We believe she was aware of the misconduct by her husband, Smokey Robinson, and that she used their status as well as the clients reliance on their living wage in order to keep them in check, attorney Herbert Hayden said.

According to Hayden and Harris, no police reports or criminal charges have been filed against Robinson.
Sir Keir Starmer dismissed opposition criticism of tax exemptions in the UK-India trade deal as incoherent nonsense as he insisted the agreement was a huge win for Britons.

The Prime Minister defended the arrangement, which will allow some Indian workers transferred to Britain to temporarily avoid paying social security in this country and vice versa, following attacks from the Tories and Reform UK.

Speaking in the Commons, Sir Keir said similar reciprocal agreements exist between the UK and 50 countries and challenged opponents to say whether they would also tear up those pacts on the same grounds.

Sir Keir Starmer insisted the deal was a huge win for Britons (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Reform leader Nigel Farage have both claimed the double contributions convention amounts to two-tier tax following the rise in employer national insurance contributions for UK firms.

The provision temporarily exempts some Indian workers transferred to Britain and some UK workers sent to India from paying social security contributions in the destination country.

During Prime Ministers Questions on Wednesday, Sir Keir said: The criticism on the double taxation is incoherent nonsense. Its a benefit to working people. Its in the agreements that weve already got with 50 other countries.

And if the member for Clacton (Mr Farage) or the Leader of the Opposition is seriously suggesting that theyre going to tear up agreements with 50 other countries create a massive hole in our economy, they should get up, and they should say so.

He said the deal, which is the biggest trade agreement since Brexit, was a huge win for the UK.

Ministers say the long-coveted pact will add 4.8 billion a year to the economy by 2040, with dramatic reductions to levies on scotch whisky, car and other exports from Britain.

Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said the new UK-India deal would not undercut British workers (Aaron Chown/PA)

Under the terms of the deal, UK staff in India would remain subject to national insurance, but be exempt from Indian levies, while Indian staff in the UK would continue to pay into their own system and not Britains, for three years.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds dismissed suggestions that the deal would undercut British workers as he faced questions from broadcasters earlier on Wednesday.

He pointed to similar deals with the EU, the US, Canada and Japan, saying that the previous Conservative government signed a similar deal exempting Chilean workers from national insurance for five years.

Seconding Indian staff to the UK will also involve additional costs such as the immigration health surcharge and relocation costs, Mr Reynolds said.

He added that the overall impact of the deal would mean more tax revenue for the Treasury, and said he expected more UK workers to be seconded to India as a result of British companies gaining access to Indian government procurement contracts.

Speaking to Sky News, he added: This is not a tangible issue. This is the Conservatives  and Reform  unable to accept that this Labour Government has done what they couldnt do and get this deal across the line.

Mr Reynolds also dismissed reports that the Home Office had not been informed about the terms of the deal until shortly before it was announced, saying it was absolute nonsense reporting.

The deal includes some easing of rules on business mobility for temporary visitors and up to 1,800 chefs, yoga instructors and musicians providing contracted services.

Downing Street was unable to provide estimates of how the deal may impact immigration or tax-take in Britain.

The Prime Ministers official spokesman said: We dont do individual line-by-line assessments on free trade deals.

He said the UK and India have not agreed the final details of their social security deal and that the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) would provide a fiscal assessment once the agreement was ratified.

The deal, which has lowered tariffs on UK exports including whisky, gin and cars as well as imports of clothing from India, is estimated to add 4.8 billion to GDP per year from 2040.

But the Tories have seized on the national insurance contribution (NICs) exemptions as what they claim amounts to an astonishing betrayal of British workers by rewarding overseas labour.

Party leader Kemi Badenoch said on Wednesday that she had refused to sign a version of the deal that came across her desk while she was trade secretary, after the FT reported that she had agreed the national insurance exemption in principle, citing Indian sources.

This is total and utter rubbish, she posted on X. I never agreed to any such tax deal. The evidence couldnt be clearer  I refused to sign the deal.

Fake News Alert. This is total and utter rubbish. I never agreed to any such tax deal. The evidence couldnt be clearer  I refused to sign the deal. As I have always said  No Deal is Better Than a Bad Deal. https://t.co/y0YBRqhR0Y  Kemi Badenoch (@KemiBadenoch) May 7, 2025

Shadow business minister Dame Harriett Baldwin told MPs the arrangement would be subsidising Indian labour while undercutting British workers.

A double contribution convention will come at a significant cost to the British taxpayer and to British businesses, she told the Commons on Tuesday.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage described the deal as truly appalling, adding: This Government doesnt give a damn about working people. The Labour Party has this time in a big, big way betrayed working Britain.
Starmer calls for calm amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan

Sir Keir Starmer called for India and Pakistan to take steps to ease the rising tensions following exchanges of fire in Kashmir.

The Prime Minister said the UK was encouraging dialogue, de-escalation and the protection of civilians.

Pakistan has described Delhis missile attacks as an act of war and responded with shelling on the Indian side of the line of control.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer addressed the rising tensions in the Commons (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

At least 26 people, including a child, are reported to have died in the missile strikes which came in retaliation to last months massacre of tourists in the Indian part of Kashmir.

Pakistan responded with shelling  killing seven civilians according to Indian police and medics  and claimed to have shot down Indian fighter jets.

At Prime Ministers Questions, Sir Keir said: Rising tensions between India and Pakistan will be of serious concern for many across Britain.

We are engaging urgently with both countries as well as other international partners, encouraging dialogue, de-escalation and the protection of civilians.

Sir Keir Starmer called for calm at the beginning of PMQs (House of Commons/UK Parliament/PA)

The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for the region, warning against all travel within 10 kilometres of the India-Pakistan border and 10 miles of the line of control, the de facto border that divides disputed Kashmir.

In a separate statement, Foreign Secretary David Lammy called for India and Pakistan to show restraint and engage in direct dialogue to find a swift, diplomatic path forward.

Mr Lammy said he had made clear to my counterparts in India and Pakistan that if this escalates further, nobody wins.

He added: The UK was clear in its condemnation of the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam last month. We need all sides to work urgently to see regional stability restored and ensure protection of civilians.

Former prime minister Rishi Sunak backed Indias right to retaliate after the terrorist attack.

He said: No nation should have to accept terrorist attacks being launched against it from land controlled by another country.

India is justified in striking terrorist infrastructure. There can be no impunity for terrorists.

No nation should have to accept terrorist attacks being launched against it from land controlled by another country. India is justified in striking terrorist infrastructure. There can be no impunity for terrorists.  Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) May 7, 2025

Around 50 people gathered outside the High Commission of India in central London on Wednesday evening to protest over the violence in Kashmir.

Protesters chanted for Pakistan and called for peace in the region.

The escalation in the conflict between the two nuclear-armed powers follows last months massacre, which New Delhi has blamed Pakistan for.

Islamabad has denied responsibility for the attack by armed militants near Pahalgam.

Asked if Sir Keir agreed with his predecessor Mr Sunak, the Prime Ministers official spokesman said: We are going to continue to engage with both sides, we dont want to see any escalation to this conflict.

The spokesman said the safety of British nationals in the region remains our top priority.

Meanwhile, the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) expressed concern about the impact of events in Kashmir on British Indian and Pakistani communities, noting heightened emotions in recent days.

Maswood Ahmed, deputy secretary general of the MCB, said: In these tense times, we must all play our part.

The MCB stands ready to engage with authorities, faith institutions and both Pakistani and Indian communities to ensure our streets remain peaceful.

In the Commons, Foreign Office minister Hamish Falconer told MPs: The British Pakistani and British Indian communities make a huge contribution to this country. We recognise this will be a difficult time for many.

We look to all community and faith leaders to spread a message that now is a time for coming together across religious and ethnic differences.
John Swinney says he would absolutely serve the full five-year term as First Minister if the SNP wins next years Holyrood election

Speaking a year ahead of the May 7 vote, Mr Swinney also suggested there could be a route to a second independence referendum within the five years of the next Holyrood term  but stressed this could only happen if the SNP does really well.

Asked directly if he would serve the full five-year term as first minister should his party be returned to power Mr Swinney said: Yes. I would, absolutely.

SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn would be a great asset at Holyrood, John Swinney said (James Manning/PA)

In an interview with the PA news agency, the First Minister also insisted SNP Westminster leader MP Stephen Flynn would be a great asset if he is voted into Holyrood as an MSP in 2026.

Mr Swinney described Mr Flynn, who ousted Ian Blackford as SNP leader in the Commons in 2022, as being an immensely talented individual.

Mr Flynn, the MP for Aberdeen South, is expected to stand for Holyrood in the Aberdeen South and North Kincardine constituency, where incumbent SNP MSP Audrey Nicoll is stepping down.

Mr Swinney also said he believes the state of the NHS and living standards will be the key issues in the 2026 Holyrood poll.

On the issue of the NHS, he insisted efforts from his government were now beginning to deliver improvements.

The First Minister pointed to the target for 64,000 additional procedures to be carried out having already been exceeded  with the Scottish Government saying 105,500 additional surgeries, outpatient appointments and diagnostic procedures had been completed in the target time.

With the Scottish Government coming under persistent attack on the state of the NHS, Mr Swinney stressed he is working very closely with his Health Secretary Neil Gray to make sure we deliver improvements in the health service.

John Swinney (second right) said he and Health Secretary Neil Gray (second left) would be working all the way up to the election to try to improve the NHS (Jane Barlow/PA)

The First Minister said: We are beginning to see those happening already, with more procedures being undertaken than we envisaged, with diagnostic waiting times coming down and the strengthening of the health service as we move forward.

As well as pledging that the NHS would command my attention all the way up to the election, Mr Swinney said living standards could be a key factor in next Mays vote because people in Scotland are suffering today because of decisions taken outwith our hands.

He added: Brexit has reduced living standards for people in our country. Scotland voted to stay in the European Union and we were dragged out of it against our will and we have become poorer as a consequence.

And the Labour Government has done nothing in a year to recalibrate that and to improve those living standards.

They promised to reduce fuel bills for people and fuel bills have gone up.

Mr Swinney said the whole issue of standard of living, how people are living their lives, how they feel about their economic circumstances, plays directly into the arguments about who should be taking those decisions, adding: I think an independent Scotland should be taking those decisions in the interests of the people of Scotland  that will be the mainstay of what I say to people in May 2026.

Asked then if the Holyrood election could potentially lead to a second independence referendum, Mr Swinney said: We only get into that space if the SNP does really well, that is my simple view of the whole thing.

The SNP has got to do really well.

Pressed on whether that would mean winning a majority of seats in the Scottish Parliament  something the party has only achieved in 2011 when Alex Salmond was leader  Mr Swinney would only repeat that the SNP would have to do really well.

He added: If you look at the political history of Scotland, things only happen to move Scotland on when the SNP does really well.

That will be my pitch to people in Scotland: if they want to have guaranteed progress on the future of Scotland and for Scotland to become an independent country it is not going to come about by any other means than the SNP doing really well.
Kemi Badenoch called the national insurance exemption in the trade deal two-tier taxes from two-tier Keir. Photograph: Jacob King/PA

A series of senior Conservatives have contradicted Kemi Badenoch after she criticised a landmark UK-India trade deal because it temporarily exempts seconded Indian workers from national insurance payments in the UK.

Tories including Oliver Dowden, who was deputy prime minister under Rishi Sunak, said the deal should be hailed as a dividend of Brexit that would bring economic growth and cheaper goods from India.

The deal was announced on Tuesday after more than three years of negotiations. It cuts tariffs on a series of goods and will add an estimated 4.8bn a year to the UK economy by 2040.

In an initial response, the shadow trade secretary, Andrew Griffith, praised it, saying it showed the government recognised that reducing cost and burdens on businesses in international trade is a good thing, and that thanks to Brexit, we can do.

But later on Tuesday the tone changed, with Robert Jenrick, the shadow justice secretary  who regularly roams beyond his brief  tweeting that the national insurance exemption, which applies mutually to seconded UK workers in India, showed that British workers come last in Starmers Britain.

Badenoch, the party leader, soon followed suit, saying in a tweet that this was two-tier taxes from two-tier Keir.

But several influential Tories and figures from the pro-Brexit camp pointedly disagreed, noting that such opt-outs for seconded workers, which prevent double taxation, were routine in trade deals and had featured in some negotiated under the Conservatives.

Dowden, who is still an MP, welcomed the deal, writing on X that it builds on significant progress made by [the] previous Conservative government.

Steve Baker, who dealt with trade as a Brexit minister under Theresa May, wrote: This deal is great news. It further cements the path which I and others worked so hard to secure  The tax issue will likely turn out to be a red herring. We should be celebrating that a Labour government has furthered free trade in the national interest outside the EU.

Another leading Tory Brexiter, Jacob Rees-Mogg, who was business secretary under Liz Truss, tweeted: Cheaper food and drink including rice and tea, footwear and clothing thanks to a welcome trade deal with India. Exactly what Brexit promised.

Praise for the deal  and scepticism about Badenochs view  also came from some influential Brexit campaigners. In an opinion piece for the Telegraph, Daniel Hannan, a Tory former MEP who is now a peer, wrote that the UK had pulled off something that no other country has, at least not on anything like the same scale.

Noting that some people had criticised the deal based on the tax issue and worries about its impact on migration and apparently uneven tariff reduction, he wrote: All three are nonsense.

Shanker Singham, a pro-Brexit trade economist who advised Liam Fox when he was international trade secretary, wrote on X: This is a significant achievement for UK trade policy. If the UK can lock in a deal with the US, it will be one of the few countries with deals with the key trade players.

Asked about why Badenoch objected to the deal, her spokesperson said the worries were less about the national insurance idea in principle than the fact the deal was with India, given the size of its population and its lower wages.

The fear is that because Indian workers are paid considerably less, because their social security contributions would be considerably less, there is an obvious route for companies to bring Indian workers over at the expense of British workers, he said.

Asked how this would happen given the exemption only applied to workers who were temporarily seconded within the same company, the spokesman said there were ways of setting up companies in countries, and then bringing workers over.
From the 1970s to the early 1990s, 30,000 people were given contaminated blood products or transfusions. Only 106 people have so far received compensation payments. Photograph: Benjamin Cremel/AFP/Getty Images

People infected as a result of the contaminated blood scandal, and their relatives, say they have been re-traumatised by delays to  and flaws in  the compensation scheme.

At a special hearing of the infected blood inquiry, which published its final report in May last year, victims and campaigners lined up to castigate the governments handling of compensation.

Only 106 people have received payments from the Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA), with a further 54 having received offers.

As well as delays, the inquiry chair, Sir Brian Langstaff, heard complaints about qualifying criteria being too narrow, tariffs being set too low and the complexity of the claims process.

More than 3,000 people have already died after 30,000 were given contaminated blood products or transfusions from the 1970s to the early 1990s. Campaigners warned many more risk dying without justice.

Carolyn Challis was infected with hepatitis C during chemotherapy treatment, but because it occurred after screening of blood began in 1991 she has been denied compensation so far.

We feel gaslit, marginalised and abused by successive governments that purport to care [but] evidently do not, she told Wednesdays hearing. Were suffering from sustained trauma. We should not still be fighting. Weve been re-traumatised again and again  by the state that infected us.

Among other issues, witnesses complained that people have to wait to be invited to apply for compensation.

Alan Burgess, from The Birchgrove Group, a support group set up by haemophiliacs with HIV, said: Its almost like youre waiting for your lottery ticket to come up. And when it doesnt come up each month, you go down and you have to drag yourself up and then you get frightened, because you might not live long enough to see this compensation come through. Im 67 now and what theyre doing with our mental health is extraordinary.

Like others who gave evidence, Burgess complained that, in meetings with the Cabinet Office, officials talked down to us rather than listening. Kate Burt, chief executive of the Haemophilia Society, called the 11.8bn compensation scheme, announced the day after publication of the inquirys final report, an exercise in political manipulation.

Andrew Evans, of the Tainted Blood campaign group, said: The full acceptance of responsibility followed by promises of quick justice has turned into defensiveness and stonewalling, leaving victims feeling betrayed and disappointed. We were told that we were due comprehensive compensation with the promise that whatever it costs to deliver the scheme we will pay it.

People report that they have fallen ill watching that promise disappear  Its a long-held feeling that governments wish to drag this scandal out in order that the longer it goes on, the more people die and the less compensation will need to be paid.

Confronted with victims and campaigners unhappiness with the scheme, the paymaster general, Nick Thomas-Symonds, told Wednesdays hearing: What I wouldnt wish to do is make changes that cause further undue delay. But I certainly see the role now as doing our very best to push forward IBCAs speed of payments, while respecting it because of operational independence.

Opening the hearing, Langstaff said it was taking place amid letter after letter, email after email, call after call expressing worries and concerns about how compensation is being delivered. He said the inquiry would do everything in its power to improve the delivery of compensation and to ensure that justice is done.
UK politicians have urged restraint after India fired missiles across the border into Pakistani-controlled territory in at least six locations, killing at least eight people, according to Pakistani security officials.

Scotlands First Minister John Swinney and Labour MP Stella Creasy said they were deeply concerned by the escalation in violence while former Tory minister Lord Ahmad warned the potential for war tonight is real.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office updated its travel advice for the region, warning against all travel within 10 kilometres of the India-Pakistan border, 10 miles of the Line of Control and the Balochistan province of Pakistan.

A statement said: On the night of 6 May (UK Time), the Indian Ministry of Defence stated it had struck nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

I am deeply concerned by the events in Kashmir tonight and urge calm and dialogue to avoid further conflict.  John Swinney (@JohnSwinney) May 6, 2025

In response, there are reports of Pakistani artillery fire across the Line of Control. On the night of 6 May (UK Time) Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority indicated that it was closing Pakistan airspace for at least 48 hours. There are reports of flights being diverted. British nationals should contact their airline for up-to-date information.

We are continuing to monitor the situation closely. British nationals should stay up to date with our travel advice and follow the advice of local authorities.

India said three civilians were killed in shelling by Pakistani troops in Indian-controlled Kashmir.

The Indian army said in a statement the Pakistani army resorted to arbitrary firing, including gunfire and artillery shelling, across the Line of Control, the de facto border that divides disputed Kashmir between the two countries, and their international border.

The statement said the army was responding in a proportionate manner.

Tensions have mounted between the nuclear-armed neighbours over last months militant attack on tourists in the Indian-controlled portion of Kashmir.

India blamed Pakistan for backing the attack, which Islamabad has denied.

Mr Swinney said on Tuesday evening: I am deeply concerned by the events in Kashmir tonight and urge calm and dialogue to avoid further conflict.

Ms Creasy, MP for Walthamstow, warned the world cannot stand by as the conflict spirals and the risk of harm to civilians in the region increases.

Deeply concerning to see military air strikes in Jammu Kashmir tonight by the Indian Government, she said.

Restraint by all concerned must be sought and secured.

Deeply concerning to see military air strikes in Jammu Kashmir tonight by the Indian Government  the world cannot stand by as this conflict escalates and so too the risk of harm to innocent civilians in the region. Restraint by all concerned must be sought and secured.  stellacreasy (@stellacreasy) May 6, 2025

Lord Ahmad, who served as South Asia minister under the previous Conservative administration, said the missile strikes were an alarming escalation.

The potential of a war tonight is real  we need urgent international engagement to prevent a widening of this conflict which carries serious implications not just for the region but for the wider world, he said.

MP for Coventry South Zarah Sultana, who sits as an Independent following her suspension from Labour after she voted to back scrapping the two-child benefit cap, accused New Delhi of violating international law.

She said in a post on social media: I condemn the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam  but no conclusive evidence has been presented linking Pakistan.

Indias unprovoked strike on Pakistan is a violation of international law. With both being nuclear powers, this is reckless & a grave threat to regional peace.

The missiles early on Wednesday struck locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and in the countrys eastern Punjab province, according to officials.

I condemn the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam  but no conclusive evidence has been presented linking Pakistan. Indias unprovoked strike on Pakistan is a violation of international law. With both being nuclear powers, this is reckless & a grave threat to regional peace.  Zarah Sultana MP (@zarahsultana) May 6, 2025

Pakistans military spokesperson Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif said India launched attacks on six different locations, killing eight people and injuring 38 others.

A mosque was hit in the city of Bahawalpur, where a child was killed and a woman and a man were injured, an official said.

State-run Pakistan Television, quoting security officials, said the countrys air force shot down two Indian jets in retaliation but provided no additional detail.

Pakistans Foreign Affairs Ministry said Indian forces had launched the strikes while staying in Indian airspace. Other locations hit were near Muridke in Punjab and Kotli in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir.

Indias Defence Ministry said in a statement that at least nine sites were targeted where terrorist attacks against India have been planned.

Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistan military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution.

We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable.

The missile strikes by India  on Pakistan  and Pakistani administered Kashmir is an alarming escalation between two nuclear armed neighbours- the potential of a war tonight is real -we need urgent international engagement to prevent a widening of this conflict which https://t.co/8ciR7mluqw  The Lord (Tariq)Ahmad of Wimbledon KCMG (@tariqahmadbt) May 6, 2025

The Indian army wrote on X: Justice is served.

Pakistans Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the deceitful enemy has carried out cowardly attacks at five locations in Pakistan and that his country would retaliate.

Pakistan has every right to give a robust response to this act of war imposed by India, and a strong response is indeed being given, he said.

He added that his country and its forces know very well how to deal with the enemy. We will never let the enemy succeed in its nefarious objectives.

Waqar Noor, the interior minister in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, said at least one child was killed in the Indian attack and that several missiles landed at two locations, with the civilian population targeted.
People carry posters of George Floyd as they march from the Lincoln Memorial to the Martin Luther King Jr memorial in Washington DC on 28 August 2020. Photograph: Carolyn Kaster/AP

This 25 May marks the fifth anniversary of the police killing of George Floyd, a Black man in Minneapolis, Minnesota, whose murder sparked international protests against police brutality and racism.

A new study by the Pew Institute examines the beliefs of American adults regarding race and racial issues five years after Floyds death.

In June 2020, 67% of US adults expressed support for the Black Lives Matter movement, a decentralized social and political movement that started in 2013 after the killing of Trayvon Martin.

In 2023, nearly nine in 10 Americans said that they had seen videos of police violence against Black people, like the one that brought widespread awareness to Floyds death. At the time, 45% of American adults believed that the sharing of these videos was a very or somewhat good thing, while 65% of Black adults and 68% of Democrats held that belief.

There was a wide partisan divide in belief in whether such videos could hold police accountable. While 76% of Democrats believed that they could, that percentage was only 50% for Republicans.

Three months after that summer of nationwide protests, 52% of US adults said that increased focus on issues of race and racial inequality would lead to changes that would improve the lives of Black people. By 2025, however, 54% of US adults said that the relationship between police and Black people in the country was about the same. Only 11% believe that things are better, while a third says that things are worse. There are partisan differences in these views as well: 39% of Republicans say that the relationship between police and Black people is worse, while that number is 28% for Democrats.

The justice system is not fair when it comes to Black people, a Black Republican in their mid-40s said in the survey. When convicted of crimes, Black people always get heavier sentences than their White counterparts, even when they have no prior convictions and come from similar backgrounds as their White counterparts.

The 2020 protests were followed by a far-right backlash, one in which efforts towards diversity were walked back. Five years later, Trump, the president under whom the protests took place, is in office again. Eighty-two per cent of Democrats and 14% of Republicans believe that Trump will make things worse, while 53% of Republicans and 5% of Democrats believe that Trump will make things better.

We have started moving backwards in the equal rights progression weve made over the years, a white Democrat in their mid-30s said. With a president like Trump who is getting rid of Black History Month, inclusivity and special initiatives that ensure people of color and underrepresented people will have equal opportunities, this will surely set us back decades.

Today, 52% of US adults express support for the Black Lives Matter movement  a drop of 15 percentage points from 2020. Since then, there has been a consistent decrease in US adults feelings towards the impact of the protests. In September of 2020, 52% of US adults believed that the increased attention to racism and racial issues would lead to changes that would improve the lives of Black people in the country , and by 2023, 40% believed that that had happened. That number has dropped to 27% today.

Five years later, nearly three-quarters, or 72%, of American adults said that the increased focus on race and racial inequality after Floyds killing did not lead to changes that improved the lives of Black people.

During the summer of 2020, many companies, celebrities and organizations issued statements in support of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI); 80% of American adults in July 2020 said that they had seen or heard companies and organizations making statements about race and racism, with only 19% believing that the companies were expressing genuine concern about the treatment of Black people in the country.

Related: American corporations didnt want to diversify, anyway

Just three years later, the supreme court ended affirmative action. Influenced by far-right activists, many educational institutions, along with private and public companies have walked back the DEI promises they made just half a decade prior. This year, following his inauguration, Trump signed an executive order ending DEI in the federal government.

A white Republican in their mid-70s, who believes that the country has gone too far emphasizing race, said: The country has forgotten [Martin Luther King] Jrs Ive got a dream speech content concerning judging others on their character rather than the color of their skin.

Today, 49% of adult Americans are unsure that Black people will ever have equal rights with white people  that number was 39% in 2020.
A vessel rescuing people in the central Mediterranean off Libya last year. Human rights organisations have documented how migrants trapped in the country are at the mercy of militias and smugglers. Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images

The Trump administration is reportedly planning to deport a group of immigrants to Libya, despite a judges efforts on Wednesday to block any such flights and the state departments previous condemnation of the life-threatening prison conditions in the country.

Reuters cited three unnamed US officials as saying the deportations could happen this week. Two of the officials said the immigrants, whose nationalities are not known, could be flown to the north African country as soon as Wednesday, but they added the plans could still change. The New York Times also cited a US official confirming the deportation plans.

The reported moves come as a federal judge ruled in favor of immigrant rights advocates, who asked him to block any deportation of immigrants to Libya. District court judge Brian Murphy agreed with advocates that a previous injunction he had issued already barred such flights.

If there is any doubt  the Court sees none  the allegedly imminent removals, Murphy clarified, would clearly violate this Courts Order.

It was not clear what Libya would be getting in return for taking any deportees. In a rare show of unity, Libyas rival governments have responded to news reports by saying that they would refuse to accept any deportees from the United States.

Human rights groups condemned the reported plans, noting the countrys poor record on human rights practices and harsh treatment of detainees.

Migrants have long been trafficked, tortured and ransomed in Libya. The country is in a civil war. It is not a safe place to send anyone, Sarah Leah Whitson, the executive director of Democracy for the Arab World Now (Dawn), wrote on X.

Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, senior fellow at the American Immigration Council, wrote on the platform alongside a picture of a Libyan detention facility: Dont look away. This is what Libyas migrant detention facilities look like. This is what Trump is doing.

Reichlin-Melnick added: Amnesty International called these places a hellscape where beatings are common and sexual violence are rampant. There are reports of human trafficking and even slavery.

Claudia Lodesani, head of programs for Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), said the group was very concerned about the possible consequences of such a plan, saying reports by media outlets and human rights organisations showed that Libya is not a safe country for migrants

Lodesani pointed to a 2023 United Nations report which documented widespread practices of arbitrary detention, torture, rape and slavery and concluding there were grounds to believe a wide array of crimes against humanity have been committed against migrants in Libya.

Government agencies, including the defense department, the White House, state department and department of homeland security did not immediately respond to the Guardians requests for comment. The defense department later directed inquiries to the White House.

Reports of planned deportations to Libya come as the Trump administration is expanding its efforts to negotiate the deportations of US migrants to third-party countries, including Angola, Benin, Eswatini, Moldova and Rwanda. This is alongside the at least 238 Venezuelan immigrants already deported to a prison in El Salvador.

Libya is a major transit point for Europe-bound asylum seekers. For years, human rights organisations have documented how migrants trapped in the country are at the mercy of militias and smugglers. Tens of thousands of people from sub-Saharan Africa are kept indefinitely in overcrowded refugee detention centres where they are subjected to abuses and torture.

In its annual human rights report released last year, the US state department criticised Libyas harsh and life-threatening prison conditions and arbitrary arrest or detention, citing how migrants , including children, had no access to immigration courts or due process.

The news has prompted condemnation from aid agencies and NGOs that operate in the central Mediterranean, which have long warned about the harsh conditions faced by asylum seekers in Libya. They have also accused European governments of being complicit in such treatment by working with Libya to intercept migrants.

Related: Libya expels 600 Nigeriens in dangerous and traumatising desert journey

For 10 years now since our foundation, as a search and rescue organisation, we have continuously highlighted that Libya is not a safe place for migrants and refugees, said Mirka Schafer, a political expert for the German search-and-rescue organisation SOS Humanity. Evidence from survivors onboard our vessel Humanity 1, includes refugees with traces of torture on their bodies, gunshot wounds, pain caused by beatings, physical and psychological wounds while in transit, in detention camps in Libya, or fleeing Libya across the Mediterranean.

One person onboard the Humanity 1 ship said criminal groups operating in Libya sell people like they would sell bread.

Luca Casarini, the Italian founder of the NGO Mediterranea Saving Humans, said the reported move by Trump was an endorsement of the horror that has characterised his administrations policies since the very beginning.

Libya is one of the most hellish places on Earth, where mafias and smugglers operate with the complicity of the European Union. But Trump goes a step further. The American president claims ownership of this horror by deporting people to a hell that is Libya, flaunting his power. It is a move that drags our civilisation toward the abyss.

Libyas government of national unity said on Wednesday it rejected the use of its territory as a destination for deporting migrants without its knowledge or consent. The government added there was no coordination with the US regarding the reception of migrants.

Trump, who made immigration a major issue during his election campaign, has launched aggressive enforcement action since taking office, increasing troops to the southern border and pledging to deport millions of undocumented immigrants from the US.

As of Monday, the Trump administration had deported 152,000 people, according to the Department of Homeland Security. Trumps administration has tried to encourage migrants to leave voluntarily by threatening steep fines, trying to strip away legal status, and sending migrants to notorious prisons in Guantanamo Bay and El Salvador.

The US secretary of state, Marco Rubio, last week said the US was not satisfied with sending migrants only to El Salvador, and hinted that Washington was looking to expand the number of countries to which it could deport people.

We are working with other countries to say: we want to send you some of the most despicable human beings; will you do this as a favour to us? Rubio said at a cabinet meeting at the White House last Wednesday. And the further away from America, the better.

A fourth US official said the administration had for several weeks been looking at a number of countries where it might be able to send migrants, including Libya.

On 19 April the supreme court temporarily barred the Trump administration from deporting a group of Venezuelans it accused of being gang members.

Trumps administration, which has invoked a rarely used wartime law, has urged the justices to lift or narrow their order.

Reuters contributed to this report
Ukrainian soldiers reload artillery near Niu-York, Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine, on 5 March. Photograph: Diego Herrera Carcedo/Anadolu via Getty Images

JD Vance has said that Russia is asking for too much in its negotiations with Ukraine in the latest sign of growing frustration from Washington with ceasefire talks to end the war between the two countries.

Speaking at a security conference of senior military and diplomatic leaders in Washington, the US vice-president said that the White House is focused on getting the two sides to hold direct talks and is ready to walk away if certain benchmarks are not reached.

I wouldnt say that the Russians are uninterested in bringing this thing to a resolution, Vance said during an onstage interview with the Munich security council president, Wolfgang Ischinger.

What I would say is, right now, the Russians are asking for a certain set of requirements, a certain set of concessions in order to end the conflict. We think theyre asking for too much. OK?

Asked about those comments later on Wednesday, Donald Trump said: Its possible thats right.

We are getting to a point where some decisions are going to have to be made, said the US president. Im not happy about it  Im not happy about it.

Senior administration officials, including Vance and the US secretary of state, Marco Rubio, are said to be growing more frustrated over Russias inflexibility in discussions to end the war. Steve Witkoff, Trumps envoy, has held four rounds of direct talks with Putin, but those have not yielded concrete concessions from the Russian side.

During his remarks, Vance reiterated the threat that the White House would walk away if [Trump] thinks hes not making progress.

In particular, the step that we would like to make right now is we would like both the Russians and the Ukrainians to actually agree on some basic guidelines for sitting down and talking to one another, he said. Obviously, the United States is happy to participate in those conversations, but its very important for the Russians and the Ukrainians to start talking to one another. We think that is the next big step that we would like to take.

After meeting with Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Vatican last month, Trump threatened Russia with secondary sanctions over the continued bombardments of Kyiv and other major Ukrainian cities despite talks to reach a permanent ceasefire.

There was no reason for Putin to be shooting missiles into civilian areas, cities and towns, over the last few days, Trump wrote then. It makes me think that maybe he doesnt want to stop the war, hes just tapping me along, and has to be dealt with differently.

Senior Russian officials have maintained a hardline position, demanding both a rollback of Nato as well as limits on Ukraines security and a degree of control over its internal politics.

Related: Biden accuses Trump of modern-day appeasement towards Russia

Marco Rubio expressed yesterday, I think, also the assessment that they had the American team now is getting a better understanding of the Russian position and of the root causes of this situation, said Sergei Lavrov, the foreign minister, during an interview on Meet the Press last week. One of this root causes, apart from Nato and creation of direct military threats to Russia just on our borders, another one is the rights of the national minorities in Ukraine.

Joe Biden in his first interview since leaving office accused Trump of modern-day appeasement, saying the expectations that Ukraine ceding territory to Russia would end the war was foolish.
Geordie Shore star Vicky Pattison and Irish TV presenter Angela Scanlon will discuss topics including motherhood and internet drama as the hosts of a new podcast titled Get A Grip.

The catalyst for the podcast was female comradery in the face of the ridiculous, according to Virgin Radio UK host Scanlon.

Being told to get a grip is not a new notion for most women, and is something Ive experienced a couple of times (a week!), as has Vicky, the 41-year-old said.

Get A Grip is hosted by Angela Scanlon and Vicky Pattison (Amanda Akokhia/PA)

Female comradery in the face of the ridiculous was the catalyst for our new podcast. We wanted to create a fun and empowering space where we can unpick the good, the bad and the bizarre happenings in the world each week as we move through our own lives loudly, unashamedly and maybe a little unhinged.

Were taking the group chat into the pod world and we cant wait for you to come with us!

Reality TV star Pattison said: For those who know me by now I am never one to shy away from expressing myself whether people want to hear it or not!

So Im thrilled that I get to do that alongside my partner in crime as we do our best to keep things real and put the world to rights with lots of laughter along the way. I have no doubt we will be bringing a lot of you along with us too.

Im a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! winner Pattison, 37, previously hosted the podcast Vicky Pattison: The Secret To, where she spoke to celebrities about their success.

Vicky Pattison attending the Bafta TV Awards 2024 (Ian West/PA)

Scanlon presented the podcast Thanks A Million, which saw her interview celebrities including comedian Alan Carr and Irish TV presenter Laura Whitmore.

Arianne Merry, executive producer of Get A Grip, said: Were absolutely thrilled to team up with Angela and Vicky on Get A Grip.

This is an unapologetic podcast that your ears have been craving. Its bold, brilliant and brimming with personality.

We knew we were creating something special from the moment we got Angela and Vicky in the studio together.

They not only get on like a house on fire, but bring two distinct female perspectives to the table, tackling everything from personal battles, headline-grabbing issues or the lighter side of life, whilst carrying mutual respect and quick wit.

And they top it all off with a laugh, which is something we all need more of!

Get A Grip is available on all podcasting platforms from May 8.
Joe Biden gave his first interview since leaving office to the BBC

Joe Biden wanted to use the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War as the moment to return to the political spotlight.

It explains why the former president chose a British broadcaster for his first big interview since leaving office, as well as the timing, a smidge before Victory in Europe day, and it accounted for at least part of his message about the dangers of appeasing Vladimir Putin.

But it also reveals a crucial truth about Mr Biden, 82, and his life in politics, and acts as the opening shots in the battle over his legacy.

While many former presidents keep their heads down after leaving power out of deference for the office they once held, Mr Bidens outspoken condemnation of Donald Trump comes less than four months after he returned to civilian life.

And it gives him a chance to marshal his arguments ahead of a blockbuster account of the final days of his presidency, which is due to be published in less than two weeks time.

Original sin: president Bidens decline, its cover-up, and his disastrous choice to run again, is written by CNN anchor Jake Tapper and Axios correspondent Alex Thompson.

It promises a slew of headlines about who knew what and when about Mr Bidens frailty.

What you will learn makes president Bidens decision to run for re-election seem shockingly narcissistic, self-delusional, and reckless  a desperate bet that went bust  and part of a larger act of extended public deception that has few precedents, Penguin said in a press release.

Mr Biden dropped out of the 2024 race a month after his disastrous TV debate appearance - ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS

For at least one day, Mr Biden led the news with his prebuttals.

He said he didnt think it would have mattered if he had walked away from re-election earlier. Kamala Harris was a good candidate who was fully funded, he said.

Democrats who have had to pick up the pieces of a disastrous election, losing not just the White House but control of Congress, are furious.

They see a tragic irony in his quick return to the limelight.

Its an illustration of the issues that led to last years Democratic debacle where Biden didnt know when enough was enough, said Brett Bruen, who worked for the Obama White House.

He didnt recognise the need to pass the baton, and even after everything thats transpired, he still seems to not understand the role that most of us would like him to play.

In other words, to disappear and not give Mr Trump a target.

Credit: BBC Radio 4 Today

Barack Obama, by contrast, took almost 18 months to open fire on the crazy stuff coming out of the Trump White House in 2018.

Mr Biden is just getting started it seems. He is set to sit down with his wife Jill on Thursday for an interview on The View, ABCs daytime show.

In the meantime, Americans have started to look back more fondly on Mr Bidens time in office.

As Mr Trumps tariffs trigger global uncertainty and turmoil in the markets, polls show that the economic blame game has flipped.

Where the Republican candidate last year beat the Democratic incumbent on questions about who was best placed to manage the economy, a Gallup Poll to mark Mr Trumps first 100 days in office showed that almost half of adults blamed him for current financial woes, while only 27 per cent blamed Mr Biden.

Brad Bannon, a Democratic strategist, said the former president should have waited at least six months to re-emerge and remind voters of just what they had rejected in November. Joe Bidens timing is bad, he said. It was bad last year, it is bad this year.

His late departure from last years race and his early return to the fray this year are rooted in the same feature of Mr Bidens life.

He won election to the Senate at the age of 30 before spending half a century in politics. He sniffed around pretty much every open Democratic presidential primary since 1988 and he finally got the top job at the age of 78.

His plan to be a transitional president, giving way to a younger candidate after one term, was quickly shelved.

The political life is the only one he knows. And it is no surprise that he has returned to the fray so quickly.
Getty Images. EatingWell design.







"Key Points"

Trader Joe's shoppers in Chicago shared the contents of their carts on a recent podcast.

Packaged snacks like peanut butter puffs, rolled chips and hummus were all popular.

Cheeses like Brie bites and caramelized onion Cheddar cheese also made the cut.







Theres no denying it, Trader Joes is the undisputed king of snacksthe inventive flavors, impressive quality and solid prices are simply too hard to beat. And with constant new product rollouts, the best way to discover the newest snacks is to head to your local store at least once per week.

The next best way is to listen to the Inside Trader Joes podcast. In the latest episode, the hosts headed over to Chicago to link up with store captain Ken and ask local shoppers whats in their cart. Juicy produce like mangoes, plums and berries were popular picks, plus go-to freezer dinners like chicken soup dumplings. But our interest was piqued when the shoppers revealed six seriously delicious snacks that we wanted to add to our carts immediatelyand we have a feeling theyll win you over too.

Teeny Tiny Avocados

You might not think of avocado as a snack food, but one customer pointed out that the Teeny Tiny Avocados are actually the perfect portion and great for spreading on a slice of toasted sourdough bread. The single-serve Hass avocados have an irresistibly creamy texture, and the price tag for a bag of six is equally appealingyou can grab one for $4.99. Pair it with your favorite toast or incorporate one into a quick and easy salad.

Related: 7 Trader Joe's Products You Should Never Buy, According to Customers

Brie Bites

Its also safe to say that Trader Joes is the king of cheeseat least when it comes to grocery stores. And theres no shortage of domestic and international cheeses to choose from, but when it comes to taste and convenience, their Brie Bites are the way to go. They offer all the mild, buttery goodness that you love about traditional Brie wedges, just in individually packaged servings that are extra convenient. And since they have thin rinds, even those that aren't a fan of the edible mold layer can dig right in.

Bamba Peanut Butter Puffs

This air-baked snack is one 3-year-old customers favorite for beach days, and its not hard to see why. Theyre made from four simple ingredients, including puffed corn grits and peanut butter, and have an amazingly light, crunchy texture. As for the tiny customers parent, they keep the hazelnut creme-filled version all to themselves. Since each bag is just 3 ounces, they also make a good to-go option for road trips or parkside snacking.

Crunchy Chili Onion Hummus

If youre a fan of the popular Crunchy Chili Onion topping, you wont want to miss out on the Crunchy Chili Onion Hummus that takes the otherwise plain chickpea puree to the next level by adding a pop of garlic, onion and red chili to every bite. Its a little bit spicy, a lot crunchy and totally tasty. Scoop it up with TJs pita bread, a vegetable tray or one of TJs many cracker offerings.

Related: The 10 Best Products at Trader Joes in 2025, According to Customers

Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips

According to Captain Ken, if it werent for the 2-pound rounds (the previous name of Trader Joes organic yellow corn tortilla chip rounds) that hooked him at a party years back, he quite literally might not have the career he loves so much today. And he says that the rolled version with big chili-lime flavors has become another favorite, and one that the neighborhood also loves. Grab a bag for weekday snacking or pick up a few for your next gathering. Theyre sure to be a hit.

Caramelized Onion Cheddar Cheese



One crew member who loves the classically British Cheddar cheese thats blended with caramelized onion marmalade calls it phenomenal and very delicious, adding that it's wonderful on its own or grated over soups and stews. You can also enjoy it layered in sandwiches, melted on burgers and, of course, paired with Trader Joe's entertaining-style cracker assortment.

Related: 6 Underrated Things to Buy at Trader Joes for under $5, According to a Food Writer

Read the original article on EATINGWELL
Police in Austin, Texas, are searching for a 9-year-old girl who vanished in 2017 after her 7-year-old sister was found "locked in a closet and starving," authorities said.

Police received a 911 call on April 3 regarding a 7-year-old who was found in the closet of a home in Del Valle. Six other children were found in the home and "appeared physically healthy," Russell Constable, with the Austin Police Department, said at a news conference Tuesday.

The 7-year-old was taken to the hospital and is recovering.

During an investigation, detectives learned that another child, Ava Marie Gonzales, was missing from the home. Authorities said Ava was last seen by family and friends in December 2017 when she was 2 years old. She was in the custody of her mother, Virginia Gonzales, police said in a news release.

Constable said Gonzales gave "conflicting information" to family members about Ava, and investigators have not been able to locate the child's father.

He pleaded with the public for help.

Ava Marie Gonzales at age 2, in December 2017. (Austin Police Department)

"We dont know where she is right now, and thats what were trying to figure out, her current status, where she is, who shes with, and if shes safe and healthy," he said.

Constable said Ava was never reported missing and authorities are "seriously concerned about Avas welfare given the circumstances in which Avas 7-year-old sibling was found."

Police released photos of Ava at 2 years old as well as an age-progressed image of her.

The mother was arrested on April 24 on a charge of serious injury to a child related to the 7-year-old, police said. An arrest affidavit said the girl was found by her grandmother and was "malnourished, soiled and barricaded in a bedroom closet," NBC affiliate KXAN of Austin reported.

The grandmother told police that the other children were allegedly forced to lock the 7-year-old in the closet because she was always trying to eat things she was not supposed to, according to the news station. One of the children said the 7-year-old was allegedly fed a hot dog or a corndog in the morning and given half a cup of water to drink.

The closet was about 4 feet 9 inches by 1 foot 10 inches and had boxes weighing over 75 pounds in front of it, KXAN reported. Police don't believe any of the children were enrolled in school.

Gonzales is being held at the Travis County Correctional Complex on a $75,000 bond, online jail records show.
Holly LaFavers via AP Boxes of Dum-Dum lollipops outside of Holly LaFavers' home

Holly LaFavers from Kentucky was charged over $4000 after her son Liam ordered 70,000 Dum Dums lollipops on her Amazon account



After multiple attempts for help, LaFavers was eventually issued a full refund from Amazon

The mother revealed that Liam, whom she adopted when he was 2 and 1/2, has fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD)



A mother from Kentucky found herself in a sticky spot when her 8-year-old son got hold of her cell phone.

According to NBC News and ABC News, Holly LaFavers was left in shock after discovering that her son Liam had ordered around 70,000 Dum Dums lollipops via her Amazon account.

LaFavers reportedly realized this on Sunday, May 4, after she noticed a $4,200 charge from Amazon on her account.

"I had just gotten paid, and so when I looked at my bank account and it was in the red, I just immediately panicked," she told Good Morning America. "I looked to see what was causing that, and I saw the $4,200 charge to Amazon. And so immediately looked over at Amazon [to] see what had happened."

The single mother revealed that Liam, who has the fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) and was adopted by LaFavers when he was 2 and 1/2, wanted to have a carnival for his friends and use the lollipops as prizes.

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 juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

"He was being friendly and kind to his friends," she said, per NBC News

While he usually plays with his mothers phone as a reward, LaFavers told GMA that Liam knew he wasnt allowed to place any orders.

The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now!

Mateusz Slodkowski/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Amazon logo

Related: Dum Dums Lollipop Founder's Great-Granddaughter Turns Surplus Fruits and Veggies Into 'Climate Candy'

"Never has this happened before. He just likes to shop on there, window shop, I guess," she said.



After calling Amazon, LaFavers was guided by staff to reject the delivery so she could be refunded, however, 22 boxes still arrived at her doorstep.

Jmcanally/Shutterstock Dum Dums lollipops

"Liam went outside to ride his scooter and started screaming, 'My suckers are here,'" she told the show. "There were just 22 boxes of suckers on our front porch."

While another eight arrived two hours later, LaFavers waited outside to reject those parcels.

"It was probably around dinner time, Sunday evening, I just kind of, for lack of better words, gave up and decided I was gonna have to ask for help," she said after expressing her frustration to Amazon.

Related: Necco Candies Are Returning to Stores After 2-Year Hiatus

LaFavers then took to Facebook to ask friends in her community for help.

According to GMA, the mothers friends and family quickly stepped in to buy boxes, with doctor's offices and local banks also purchasing them.

LaFavers then revealed in a Facebook update on Sunday that she had finally been issued a full refund by Amazon.

After a long day of working with the bank and talking to a few news stations, Amazon called and they are refunding my money!!!, she wrote. THANK YOU to everyone that offered to buy a box to help us. I will be happy to get you what you ordered or donate them to a charity of your choice. Please dm me your preference.

She told GMA that they also donated a box to their local church and will be taking another pack of Dum Dums to Liams school.

In a statement shared with PEOPLE, Amazon confirmed that they had issued a full refund to LaFavers: "We're glad we were able to work directly with this customer to turn a sticky situation into something sweet," they said.

Kirk Vashaw, CEO of Dum Dums told PEOPLE, "We are excited to hear about such an enthusiastic Dum-Dums fan. We love that so many people jumped in to offer to buy the extra cases and that the family was ultimately reimbursed. We'd also like to offer Liam a job interview in the next 10-15 years."



According to the Mayo Clinic, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders describe the range of conditions in children caused when the mothers drank alcohol during pregnancy," with symptoms including learning, thinking, physical, and behavioral issues.

Read the original article on People
LAKELAND, FL  A woman in a canoe was killed by an alligator on Lake Kissimmee in central Florida on May 6, state wildlife officials said.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said in a news release that it received a call regarding an alligator attack at about 4 p.m. on Lake Kissimmee near the mouth of Tiger Creek. Lake Kissimmee is a nearly 35,000-acre lake located about 70 miles south of Orlando, Florida.

The woman was canoeing when she encountered the alligator and wound up in the water, the agency said. She was later found dead in the water.

The Polk County Sheriff's Office was called for assistance and sent deputies, a helicopter, and a marine unit to the scene. In an earlier news release, the sheriff's office said two people kayaked on the lake and one was attacked by an alligator.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said a nuisance alligator trapper was dispatched to the area.

'Never in my wildest dreams': Watch barefoot Florida man wrangle alligator on I-95

The agency did not identify the woman or offer any additional information. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said more updates would be available May 7 at a news conference in Tampa, Florida.

The incident was the second time in two months that an alligator had attacked in the same area near Lake Kissimmee. On March 3, a woman was bitten on the elbow on the same creek, which connects Tiger Lake and Lake Kissimmee.

The alligator attack also comes after wildlife authorities responded to the first recorded killing of a human by a black bear in state history. On May 5, an 89-year-old man and his dog were killed in Collier County in southwest Florida.

State wildlife officials were working on May 6 to find the bear, killing three of them for DNA analysis.

'We're all affected by this': Florida's first recorded deadly bear attack kills 89-year-old man, dog

Fatal alligator attacks are rare

Floridas alligator population is estimated at around 1.3 million, and the reptiles are found in waterways throughout the state. Florida wildlife officials issue permits for an annual alligator hunt and license alligator trappers, who can respond to remove alligators that threaten people.

It's the midst of alligator mating season, when alligators can be more aggressive, a time of year when people are advised to be extra cautious around bodies of water. Courtship rituals begin in April, and mating occurs in May and June, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Females build their nests in late June or early July and deposit an average of 3 to 4 dozen eggs, which hatch in August and September.

Prior to May 6, there were 490 alligator attacks in Florida since 1948, including 27 that were fatal and 314 considered major, the Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Network, reported, citing state wildlife records. A bite is considered major when the person needs medical care beyond basic first aid to treat wounds.

A University of Florida report in April said risky behaviors by humans, from benignly walking a dog along a canal to knowingly swimming in alligator-infested water, are responsible for most of the unwanted, and sometimes deadly, interactions between people and the toothy reptiles, according to the Palm Beach Post.

In a 2023 census of alligators, conducted annually by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Lake Kissimmee ranked No. 5 in the state for gator population, with an estimated 2,065 alligators. Eight Polk County lakes ranked among the state's top homes for alligators.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission administers a Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program.

"SNAP uses contracted nuisance alligator trappers throughout the state to remove alligators believed to pose a threat to people, pets or property," the agency said. "People with concerns about an alligator should call FWCs toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286), and we will dispatch a contracted nuisance alligator trapper to resolve the situation."

Contributing: Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA TODAY

This article originally appeared on The Ledger: Alligator killed woman who was canoeing at Lake Kissimmee: Officials
May 7, 2025 at 1:46 AM

Steve Eichner/WWD via Getty A$AP Rocky at A$AP Rocky Met Gala After Party on May 05, 2025 in New York, New York.

A$AP Rocky shared how his audition for Lando Calrissian in Solo: A Star Wars Story was "trash"



Donald Glover ultimately took on the role, starring alongside Alden Ehrenreich in the 2018 film directed by Ron Howard

Rocky is set to star alongside Denzel Washington for Spike Lee's upcoming film Highest 2 Lowest

The Force wasn't with A$AP Rocky the day he auditioned for Solo: A Star Wars Story.

In an interview with Variety published Tuesday, May 6 (just two days after Star Wars Day), the rapper and actor recalled the day he tried out for the role of Lando Calrissian.

"My audition was trash. I was trash that day," Rocky, 36, said before complimenting the actor who portrayed the smooth-talking pal of Han Solo, played by Alden Ehrenreich in the 2018 film.

"My man Childish Gambino [Donald Glover] was a way better Lando than I wouldve provided at that time. And I think he looked a little more like [Billy Dee Williams] than me," Rocky added.

The Ron Howard-directed film tells the origin story of Han Solo and Chewbacca, who join a heist within the criminal underworld a decade before the events of A New Hope.

When asked if he would ever audition for a Star Wars film again or want to wield a lightsaber, Rocky's answer was straightforward: "Hell, yeah."

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty; Lucasfilm/Disney/Kobal/Shutterstock A$AP Rocky, and Donald Glover as Lando Calrissian in Solo: A Star Wars Story

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.

Related: A$AP Rocky Says He and Pregnant Rihanna Were Cooking Up Baby No. 3 Ahead of Major 2025 Met Gala Moment

Rocky is set to star alongside Denzel Washington for Spike Lee's new film Highest 2 Lowest, the filmmaker's first release since 2020's Da 5 Bloods.

The first trailer features Washington's character delivering a monologue about the highest highs and the lowest lows associated with success, along with moments showcasing performances from rapper Rocky, Jeffrey Wright and Ilfenesh Hadera, who rounds out the movie's cast.

The movie is described as a "reinterpretation" of the famed Japanese filmmaker Akira Kurosawa's own 1963 crime thriller High and Low, "now played out on the mean streets of modern day New York City."



Highest 2 Lowest is in select theaters Aug. 22 and releases on Apple TV+ Sept. 5.



Read the original article on People
Alexandra Saper, an American influencer, claimed Rob Keating followed her to Bali, a court heard

A British stalker followed an American travel influencer to Bali with a rope in his suitcase, a court has heard.

Rob Keating is alleged to have booked a one-way ticket to the Indonesian island after almost a year of harassing Alexandra Saper, an Instagram blogger, with emails and video messages.

Youre never getting rid of me, he messaged Ms Saper on arrival before visiting bars and cafes near her island home, Portsmouth Crown Court was told.

Ms Saper, 33, a former lawyer who now earns a living from her Instagram page, The Wayfaress, which has more than 100,000 followers, told the jury that she was forced to flee the country in fear.

Mr Keating, who was living in his sisters garage in Havant, Hants, at the time, was arrested when he returned to the UK with black rope in his suitcase, the court heard.

He has pleaded not guilty to two counts of stalking involving serious alarm or distress.

Alexandra Saper loves to travel across the world

She shares her adventures on Instagram

Opening the case, Alexandra Bull, prosecuting, told the court: Mr Keating is now 39 years old, between 2022 and 2023 he was living in his sisters garage... and working in a traffic job and he, too, frequently posted on social media and YouTube.



He started following Ms Saper on Instagram in 2022 and sent her a weird and creepy message, to which she replied Dude, why are you following me if you dont like my content, the court heard.

Ms Saper blocked Mr Keating, but he then found her business email connected to her website, the prosecutor said.

The contact is said to have become incessant and constant and grew more intense and sexual in nature later into 2022.

In September, Mr Keating described having sex with her to some length in a video of himself talking to the camera, the court heard.

He was speaking to her as though they were in a relationship, like he was in love with her and she with him, Ms Bull said. One email included a threat to abduct her, she added.

The Instagram travel influencer has more than 100,000 followers

Ms Saper post scenes of her visits on her Instagram page, The Wayfaress

Ms Saper said in a video interview played to the court: He sent me a photo of a body in a suitcase and said he was going to kidnap me.

She added that he said he knew she was 5ft 2in, which meant she would fit inside the suitcase.

Ms Bull told the court Mr Keating also sent Ms Saper a picture of a one-way ticket to Bali and said flights booked baby girl along with around 30 videos of himself talking to the camera.

Ms Saper saw from posts on his Instagram page that he visited a bar she regularly went to with her friends, and went to cafes just 50 metres from her house, the court heard.

In her video evidence, she said he thought she was sending him secret messages through her Instagram posts.

She said: His interpretation of these posts was that they were secret coded messages about my love for him, or me asking him to come to Bali because I wanted to see him.

He was convinced that I had asked him to come to Bali.

She said she was forced to travel to Laos, south-east Asia, so that they were no longer in the same country.

She also stopped posting on Instagram, had to cancel work projects, stopped leaving the house, and became depressed because of Mr Keatings alleged actions, the court heard.



The influencer reported him to the police in Bali, and spoke to the US and the UK embassies in the country.



Following his arrest in March 2023, Mr Keating told police in an interview that he was not sexually attracted to Ms Saper but said that she had shown an interest in him and there could be something there.



He continued to stalk Ms Saper between September and November 2024, at which point he lived in Horsham in West Sussex, the court was told.



Mr Keating posted a picture of a plane ticket from London to Bali with the caption round 2 on his Instagram in November, it was heard. He was subsequently arrested again.



The trial continues.

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.
Getty Images / InStyle

Every so often, there is a runway show that completely changes the fashion landscape as we know it. And most recently, that shift is due in part to Chemena Kamalis creative director at Chloe. Since presenting her debut collection during Paris Fashion Week in February 2024, the industry has now witnessed the ripple effect of her revitalization of the boho chic aesthetic.

You might recall the nostalgic style from the early aughts. Think Kate Moss and Sienna Miller at Glastonbury, the Olsen twins on any red carpet before 2010, and iconic celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe. Like any recurring trend over time, its back, but with a modern update. Signature bohemian elements like lace, ruffles, crochet, suede, and fringe are still intrinsic to its DNA. The up-to-date version, however, does not include clashing mismatched prints, oversized oval sunglasses, or flower crowns. Instead, the once maximalist style, all about evoking a relaxed, effortless, and carefree aura, is actually quite polished and chic with muted earthy tones and textures.

Designers like Isabel Marant and Stella McCartney, as well as contemporary brands like Free People, have been trying to further this point for some time. Now, the fashion industrymore fluid than everseems to finally be ready for the boho resurgence. Which brings me to my next question: Are you?

Below are 10 easy ways to adopt the updated boho-chic approach this spring and beyond.

A Flowy Skirt

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

A key component to achieving the boho-chic look is making sure that whatever youre wearing has a lot of movement and fluidity. Thats why an accordion-style midi skirt is at the top of my list. You can wear it while incorporating other textures like a cashmere or wool sweater and a leather bomber jacket. The latter will balance out a more feminine outfit with a rugged edge. Accessorizing with Western-style elements like a chunky cowboy belt and boots goes hand in hand.

Ruffled Maxi Dress

Valentina Frugiuele/Getty Images

With an effortless flow and an extra dose of femininity, a ruffled maxi dress is the epitome of boho. Opt for one made with a sheer delicate fabric, like the one pictured above, for added lightness. Any colorway would work, but this bright purple version can do no wrong. To finish the look, grab a leather hobo bag and over-the-knee boottwo items that are germane to the boho ethos.

Double Belt

Valentina Frugiuele/Getty Images

One easy hack when it comes to boho dressing is stacking vintage-inspired belts. Youll want to find a belt made from natural materials like leather or suede, it can be beaded or studded with embellishments, and can even have funky patterns. Mixing and matching two different types of belts over an all-black outfit is a simple way to inject some boho into your look. Go even further by wearing a fringe skirt and suede knee-high boots.

Ruffled Peasant Blouse

Jacopo Raule/Getty Images

Similar to the aforementioned ruffled maxi dress, a sheer ruffled peasant blouse gives off the same type of effortless, feminine energy. One with a high neck and wide bell sleeves will complement a pair of wide-leg denim nicely. In the spirit of layered ruffles, why not also layer your jewelry over your blouse for even more emphasis on the trend?

Suede Fringe Jacket

Jade Tillman Belmes/Getty Images

A suede fringe jacket, while it can fit in with the Western aesthetic, is in fact also considered boho. The reason? Its natural, vintage-looking material along with its free-flowing fringe embellishments are a recipe for a bohemian-inspired look. Pair your jacket with a black pencil skirt, kitten heels, a bandana, and vintage-inspired earrings to go full force.

Lace Maxi Skirt

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

In addition to ruffles, another classic characteristic of boho is anything made of lace. Due to its delicateness and handmade-like craftsmanship, lace is another fabric that feels natural, and ethereal, and can be easily layered. Pair a light lace maxi skirt with a dark brown bralette and suede jacket for a romantic, but practical look.

Striped Long Cardigan

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

A striped long cardigan like this brushed mohair and alpaca blend by Zankov is another relaxed and flowy style that fits right into the boho theme. Since the earthy tones in this kind of sweater do most of the styling, youll want to take a page out of Eva Chens book and pair it with a simple pair of jeans and a white top.

Wide Leg Trousers

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

You can always count on content creator Pernille Teisbaek to put her It-girl spin on any trend. And this times no different. During Paris Fashion Week, she wore a pair of boho flared-denim with a corduroy blazer and striped top underneath. Teisbaek not only nailed the boho aesthetic because of her pants but also because of how she mixed in different textures and patterns in a cohesive and not overpowering way.

Crochet Gown

Christian Vierig/Getty Images

The next time you have a fancier occasion on your calendar, dont forget that a crochet evening gown could be the perfect boho option. Similar to lace, crochet is reminiscent of a handmade, one-of-a-kind piece that evokes a certain delicateness. Pair a pale-colored dress with something that is the complete opposite, like a cropped leather jacket, to level things out.

Wooden Platforms

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

One of the most viral boho items of this renaissance is Chloe's wooden platforms. But you don't need the exact pair to pull off the look. Style any pair of jeans with platform booties, mules, or sandals for a boho renaissance look.

Read the original article on InStyle
Evenezer Cortez Martinez, at right in a family photo, said he still has "that doubt about whether it's really true" he's back in the U.S. after his deportation experience. (Evenezer Cortez Martinez)

Evenezer Cortez Martinez said hes still scared and finds it hard to believe hes back home in Kansas City, Missouri, with his wife and children, after being deported to Mexico by U.S. immigration authorities in March.

I wake up every now and then saying, 'this is a dream.' When I look at my wife and my children, I feel joy, that peace, but I still have that doubt about whether its really true that Im here, he said, his voice breaking.

Cortez Martinez, a 40-year-old father of three and maintenance worker in the Shawnee Mission School District, was born in the Mexican state of Cuernavaca but came to the U.S. with his family when he was 4. He's one of the hundreds of thousands of people who applied and qualified for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, known as DACA, which allows young adults without legal immigration status who were brought to the U.S. as children to work and study without fear of deportation as long as they renew their DACA application every two years.

Ive lived here for 36 years; I grew up here. I have no knowledge of cities in Mexico or anything," he said.

When his grandfather Cornelio Martinez Dominguez fell ill in Mexico, Cortez Martinez began the process of requesting advance parole, a travel permit that allows Dreamers (as DACA beneficiaries are known) to leave and return to the country.

Despite obtaining the travel permit and having valid DACA status, when Cortez Martinez returned to the U.S., immigration authorities at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport prevented him from re-entering the country and deported him to Mexico on March 23.

"They told me I had a deportation order, Cortez Martinez said, adding that he wasn't allowed to consult a lawyer and was told he had to leave the country right away.

He was allowed to return home to Kansas City after spending two weeks in Mexico but said the experience was traumatic: It was very stressful. I thought I had lost everything."

Evenezer Cortez Martinez had obtained advance parole as a DACA recipient to visit Mexico after his grandfather's passing. (Evenezer Cortez Martinez)

No knowledge of an immigration hearing  or a deportation order

According to a legal complaint filed by Cortez Martinez's attorney and reviewed by Noticias Telemundo, Customs and Border Protection detained Cortez Martinez at the Dallas-Fort Worth Airport, citing a deportation order issued in June 2024 in absentia, meaning it was issued when he didn't show up to an immigration hearing. But Cortez Martinez and his attorney said he was never notified that he had a hearing  and he also didn't know that a deportation order had later been issued.

It often happens that people dont receive notifications about things that happen in immigration court, said Rekha Sharma-Crawford, Martinez's attorney.

When he returned from his visit to Mexico in March, he was deported without being allowed to contact an attorney or hold a hearing before an immigration judge.

In legal documents, CBP claimed that Cortez Martinez's advance parole had been issued in error and that it had the authority to deny re-entry under President Donald Trumps expedited removal process.

The complaint argues that an advance parole holder cannot be barred from entering the country without a formal removal hearing before an immigration judge, among other things.

Sharma-Crawford maintains that Martinez was not hiding from authorities and that all of his DACA renewals (which take place every two years) had been approved by the government without incident. In fact, his current permit is valid until October 2026.

What we asked of a federal judge was to hold the government accountable and have them recognize the legal documents [Cortez Martinez] had in his possession to allow him to re-enter the United States, which was obviously done, so that part is complete, said the attorney, who doesnt rule out taking other legal action to resolve the deportation order issued by the government.

At this point, weve given him time to return to his family, stabilize, and return to work. Well address those issues in the future, Sharma-Crawford said.

The Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection did not respond to request for comment from Telemundo News. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) responded in a statement that, because of privacy rules, it does not comment on individual immigration cases and cannot share, confirm, or deny information about individuals.

What is advance parole?

Advance parole can be requested for humanitarian reasons, such as medical treatment abroad, visiting seriously ill relatives or attending funeral services, as was the case with Cortez Martinez. It can also be requested for educational purposes, for courses or academic research or for work-related reasons, such as to complete assignments abroad or attend interviews, conferences or meetings with international clients.

According to immigration experts and to the most recent federal information, USCIS continues to accept and approve advance parole requests for current DACA recipients as long as they qualify.

Regarding traveling back and forth with advance parole, USCIS said in a statement that admission back to the U.S. is not guaranteed even if the appropriate documents are present. The agency warned that any person is subject to immigration inspection or examination at a port of entry to determine whether they may be admitted to the country and whether they are eligible for the immigration status for which they are applying.

Ruby Powers, an immigration attorney in Texas, said that CBP agents can subject Dreamers to secondary inspections upon their return to the country.

Its discretionary because they have the authority to do so  maybe theres something on their record they didnt know about, and when they travel, authorities find out, she said. There could be a deportation order that was issued when they were children and their parents didnt inform them or were never notified. The government could issue a travel ban to the very country theyre going to visit while theyre in the middle of a flight. So there are a number of things that could go wrong. ... In the end, it all comes down to whether the immigrant chooses to take those risks.

Lawyers and immigration experts say that while no specific changes have been announced by the Trump administration regarding the processing of advance parole for those who qualify  such as DACA recipients, TPS holders or those going through the asylum process  they recommend that anyone who qualifies and plans to travel abroad consult with their attorney before doing so.

The main risk DACA recipients face when they leave the United States on advance parole is that the [DACA] program could be rescinded or terminated by the Trump administration while they are out of the country, said Elizabeth Jacobs, director of regulatory affairs at the Center for Immigration Studies, a nonprofit organization that supports stricter immigration limits.

In that case, Jacobs said, they may have trouble entering the country. Many DACA recipients could be subject to entry bans of three to 10 years.

Over the past seven years, DACA has been the subject of multiple legal efforts from the first Trump administration and Republican states to eliminate the program. In January, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against parts of DACA in Texas; there, new applicants will be protected from deportation but will not have work permits or be able to apply for drivers licenses.

Cortez Martinez said that since returning home to Kansas City on April 8, hes focused on returning to work and spending time with his family. Despite the stress of his deportation, he has some advice for DACA recipients who, like him, must travel outside the U.S.

They need to check with a lawyer because its not just about leaving, its about returning, he said, and if theyre going through what I was going through, they shouldnt stay silent and seek help. To qualify for DACA, we have to pass [background] checks, have a clean criminal record, and be good people. We pay taxes and support the U.S. economy, so we shouldnt be afraid.

An earlier version of this story was first published in Noticias Telemundo.
Getty Generic photo of home delivery

A New York highway official was arrested Saturday

Police say he shot a DoorDash driver who knocked on his door to ask for directions

John Reilly III now faces multiple felony counts

A New York highway official was arrested Saturday following accusations that he shot a delivery driver who had knocked on his door to ask for directions.

New York State Police said in a news release this week that John J. Reilly, 48, allegedly shot the driver in the back while he was trying to get in his car to leave.

The victim had approached several homes asking for directions before arriving at the residence of John Reilly III, New York authorities alleged. Reilly told the victim to get off his property, before firing multiple shots at the victim as he attempted to leave in his vehicle, striking the victim once in the back, causing serious physical injuries.

Reilly, 48, has been charged with multiple felonies, including first-degree assault, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon and criminal possession of a firearm, according to the New York State Police.

Local ABC 6 spoke with members of the victims family, who said the 24-year-old is expected to survive his injuries. The victim is a recent immigrant from West Africa who does not speak English and didnt know his way around without directions on his phone, his family told the outlet.

"There's nothing to indicate the victim had any nefarious intentions; he's just out there doing his job, trying to make a food delivery," New York State Police Capt. Joseph Kolek said.

Reilly, who is the current Highway Superintendent for the Town of Chester, was taken into custody at the Orange County Jail on a $750,000 bond. Inmate records reviewed by PEOPLE show Reilly is no longer in custody. It was not immediately clear if he has retained a lawyer.

Reillys preliminary hearing is scheduled for the morning of May 9 in the Town of Chester Court, police said. PEOPLE has reached out to New York State Police for the latest on the investigation.

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.

A spokesperson for DoorDash told PEOPLE the company is devastated by the incident, but did not answer questions about whether the company has reached out to the victim or offered any assistance.

No one should ever fear for their safety just for trying to make deliveries in their neighborhood, Eli Scheinholtz, a spokesperson for DoorDash, said. Were devastated by this senseless act of violence, and were wishing the Dasher a full and speedy recovery.

Read the original article on People
Drive My Cars Oscar-winning director Ryusuke Hamaguchi is set to make his next film, All of a Sudden, in Paris with a glamorous female duo led by Virginie Efira (Benedetta) and Tao Okamoto (The Wolverine).

Hamaguchi, who is currently in Paris preparing for the movie, penned the script with Lea Le Dimna, loosely inspired by a collection of real-life exchanged letters published in the book You and I  The Illness Suddenly Get Worse, by Makiko Miyano and Maho Isono.

More from Variety

All of a Sudden is produced by David Gauquie, Julien Deris, Jean-Luc Ormieres, Renan Artukmac at Paris-based Cinefrance Studios; Hiroko Matsuda, Kosuke Oshida, Yuji Sadai at Japans Office Shirous & Bitters End; Bettina Brokemper at Germanys Heimatfilm; and Joseph Rouschop at Belgiums Tarantula. Diaphana, who handled Hamaguchis last three movies, will release All of a Sudden in France, while Bitters End will distribute it in Japan.

Cinefrance International is handling world sales outside of Asia which is represented by Bitters End. The two companies will unveil the project to buyers at the Cannes Film Market.

Hamaguchi broke through the international scene in a major way in 2022, after garnering four Oscar nominations for Drive My Car, including best director and adapted screenplay, as well as Japans first ever for best picture, and won for best international feature. Since then, he directed Evil Does Not Exist which premiered at Venice and won the Silver Lion and the Fipresci prize, and the experimental silent piece Gift.

After Drive My Car, I received various offers and this was the only one that caught my attention at that time because I was so deeply moved by the correspondence between these two women, said Hamaguchi during an interview, alongside Gauquie, Ormieres and Artukmac, at the offices of Cinefrance in Paris.

In the book You and I  The Illness Suddenly Get Worse, which was brought to Hamaguchi by Matsuda from Office Shirous, a philosopher and an anthropologist are exchanging letters discussing their thoughts on chance and risk, and their relationship develops into something more personal when the philosophers health suddenly deteriorates.

Death becomes a subject they discuss and exchange a lot about, and gradually, it becomes an encounter between two souls, says Hamaguchi, who ultimately decided to transpose the story in France, and turn the epistolary relationship into a real one between two women, a Japanese theater director and French director of a nursing home.

The film will shoot mainly in Paris. Id like to show a Paris thats a little different from the cliches we might have about the city, says Hamaguchi. Im starting to discover some places that arent touristy. So I think that will give a slightly different view of Paris than usual, he continued.

All of the Sudden will mark Hamaguchis first collaboration with Gauquie at Cinefrance, whom he met in 2022 during one of his trips to Japan once the country had reopened its borders after the pandemic.

I had been eager to meet (Hamaguchi) for some time because I love his work so we sat at a cafe in Shibuya and instead of discussing a specific project, we talked about French cinema in general, Gauquie says. The producer said he noticed Hamaguchi was French cinema buff and expressed (their) clear intention to produce (his) next feature.

French cinema has always been an important inspiration for me but also for many other Japanese people and Japanese filmmakers. Chabrol, of course, but to a larger extent the Nouvelle Vague, says Hamaguchi, who also cited Rohmer, Rivette, Godard, Truffaut, obviously, and even before them Gremillon, Becker, Renoir and Bresson. Hes currently trying desperately to learn French, he says, adding that much of my vision as a filmmaker is also based on French cinema.

Hamaguchi and Gauquie were also connected through Kiyoshi Kurosawa who made his 2024 thriller Serpents Path with Cinefrance. Knowing that David (Gauquie) had worked with Kiyoshi Kurosawa, who is one of my teachers, it was as if the stars were aligned for us to work on this project together, says Hamaguchi.

When they started developing the project, Hamaguchi explains that they thought about what could create this bridge between France and Japan, and came up with a treatment approach called humanitude. Its French method that was imported in Japan and is now practiced in several venues there, and puts the human dimension at the heart of the treatment care, for the integrity of each human being. The concept of humanitude is applied to other fields, including the film world.

Speaking of the cast, Hamaguchi says hes known Virginie Efira mainly through the films she made with Paul Verhoeven, particularly Benedetta.' When I found out I was going to be able to work with her, I was really eager and happy, he continued.

As for Okamoto, he saw her in James Mangolds Wolverine and noted she also started a career in Japan. They are both really talented actresses, pointed out Hamaguchi.

For the last two years, the Japanese filmmaker has been traveling to France to develop his project and even hosted a workshop with French actors to see how they work. Its an approach Ive never seen before, but I found it very interesting, Gauquie said.

The film is co-production between France, Belgium, Germany and Japan. Ryusuke (Hamaguchi) is a very unique filmmaker who is extremely skilled at writing dialogues, said Sadai at Japans Office Shirous & Bitters End. His scripts and mise en scene make him stand out of all other directors in Japan, Sadai continued.

Best of Variety

Sign up for Variety's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
By Alexander Cornwell

JERUSALEM (Reuters) - The United States and Israel have discussed the possibility of Washington leading a temporary post-war administration of Gaza, according to five people familiar with the matter.

The "high-level" consultations have centered around a transitional government headed by a U.S. official that would oversee Gaza until it had been demilitarized and stabilized, and a viable Palestinian administration had emerged, the sources said.

According to the discussions, which remain preliminary, there would be no fixed timeline for how long such a U.S.-led administration would last, which would depend on the situation on the ground, the five sources said.

The sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to discuss the talks publicly, compared the proposal to the Coalition Provisional Authority in Iraq that Washington established in 2003, shortly after the U.S.-led invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein.

The authority was perceived by many Iraqis as an occupying force and it transferred power to an interim Iraqi government in 2004 after failing to contain a growing insurgency.

Other countries would be invited to take part in the U.S.-led authority in Gaza, the sources said, without identifying which ones. They said the administration would draw on Palestinian technocrats but would exclude Islamist group Hamas and the Palestinian Authority, which holds limited authority in the occupied West Bank.

Islamist group Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007, sparked the current war when its militants stormed into southern Israeli communities on October 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and capturing another 251.

The sources said it remained unclear whether any agreement could be reached. Discussions had not progressed to the point of considering who might take on core roles, they said.

The sources did not specify which side had put forward the proposal nor provide further details of the talks.

In response to Reuters questions, a State Department spokesperson did not comment directly on whether there had been discussions with Israel about a U.S.-led provisional authority in Gaza, saying they could not speak to ongoing negotiations.

"We want peace, and the immediate release of the hostages," the spokesperson said, adding that: "The pillars of our approach remain resolute: stand with Israel, stand for peace."

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declined to comment.

In an April interview with Emirati-owned Sky News Arabia, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said he believed there would be a "transitional period" after the conflict in which an international board of trustees, including "moderate Arab countries", would oversee Gaza with Palestinians operating under their guidance.

"We're not looking to control the civil life of the people in Gaza. Our sole interest in the Gaza Strip is security," he said, without naming which countries he believed would be involved. The foreign ministry did not respond to a request for further comment.

Ismail Al-Thawabta, director of the Hamas-run Gaza government media office, rejected the idea of an administration led by the United States or any foreign government, saying the Palestinian people of Gaza should choose their own rulers.

The Palestinian Authority did not respond to a request for comment.

RISKS

A U.S.-led provisional authority in Gaza would draw Washington deeper into the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and mark its biggest Middle East intervention since the Iraq invasion.

Such a move would carry significant risks of a backlash from both allies and adversaries in the Middle East, if Washington were perceived as an occupying power in Gaza, two of the sources said.

The United Arab Emirates - which established diplomatic relations with Israel in 2020 - has proposed to the United States and Israel that an international coalition oversee Gaza's post-war governance. Abu Dhabi conditioned its involvement on the inclusion of the Western-backed Palestinian Authority and a credible path toward Palestinian statehood.

The UAE foreign ministry did not respond to questions about whether it would support a U.S.-led administration that did not include the PA.

Israel's leadership, including Netanyahu, firmly rejects any role in Gaza for the Palestinian Authority, which it accuses of being anti-Israeli. Netanyahu also opposes Palestinian sovereignty.

Netanyahu said on Monday that Israel would expand its attacks in Gaza and that more Gazans would be moved "for their own safety". Israel is still seeking to recover 59 hostages being held in the enclave. Its offensive has so far killed more than 52,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health ministry data.

Some members of Netanyahu's right-coalition have called publicly for what they describe as the "voluntary" mass migration of Palestinians from Gaza and for the reconstruction of Jewish settlements inside the coastal enclave.

But behind closed doors, some Israeli officials have also been weighing proposals over the future of Gaza that sources say assumes that there won't be a mass exodus of Palestinians from Gaza, such as the U.S.-led provisional administration.

Among those include restricting reconstruction to designated security zones, dividing the territory and establishing permanent military bases, said four sources, who include foreign diplomats and former Israeli officials briefed on the proposals.

(Reporting by Alexander Cornwell, additional reporting by Daphne Psaledakis and Steve Holland in Washington; Editing by Daniel Flynn)
The first tropical storm of 2025 could spin up before the official start of the Atlantic hurricane season, kicking off what is predicted to be a dynamic year for hurricanes.

Around the middle of May, a large, slow-spinning area in the atmosphere could develop somewhere around Central America, overlapping with part of the Caribbean and eastern Pacific Ocean. This phenomenon, known as the Central American Gyre, can sometimes lay the groundwork for a tropical depression or tropical storm to take shape.

This is the best chance so far this year for the first named tropical storm of 2025 to develop, both in the Caribbean and in the eastern Pacific, although AccuWeather meteorologists currently say the odds of development are low.

"We're starting to get into that season where we need to kind of keep an eye out [in the Caribbean]," AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva said.

AccuWeather.com

"At the very least, a wetter pattern down across Central America and then up into the Western Caribbean is expected," DaSilva added.

Tropical downpours could cause localized flooding across Central America, Jamaica, Cuba and other islands across the western Caribbean. Some downpours could also reach South Florida.

"We're coming out of the winter season, so we want people to start transitioning their mindset into tropical mode as we head to the end of May, because there could be something lurking down there in the middle to late portions of the month," DaSilva added.

AccuWeather.com

Where would it go if something develops?

If the gyre does spawn a tropical depression or tropical storm in the Caribbean, it is likely to track northeastward.

"Given the pattern, I think the most likely is it would just cross, cross over Jamaica, Cuba, and then head out to sea," DaSilva said. "Right now, it does not look like it would be heading towards the United States."

Recent history of tropical activity in May

Outside of the traditional Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June through November, May is the most common month for tropical storms to develop. Since 2015, there have only been four years when a tropical system did not spin up in May.

Warming water in late spring can set the stage for development, particularly in the Caribbean, eastern Gulf and western Atlantic. Additionally, a slow-moving cold front or a dip in the jet stream can reach far enough south and linger long enough for storms to form in these zones.

AccuWeather.com

Tropical Storm Bertha was the most recent storm to make landfall in the United States in May after it hit South Carolina in 2020. This came less than two weeks after Tropical Storm Arthur made a close swipe along the coast of North Carolina, but the center of the storm never made landfall as it curved out to sea.

This GOES-16 satellite image taken Wednesday, May 27, 2020, at 11:40 UTC and provided by THE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, shows Tropical Storm Bertha approaching the South Carolina coast. (NOAA via AP)

A closer look at the gyre

Whether or not a gyre takes shape over Central America could hinge on the jet stream.

"Essentially, what's happening is we're going to be getting a dip in the jet stream to come down into the southeastern United States during the middle of May," DaSilva explained. The question is whether the dip in the jet stream is strong enough and reaches far enough south to initialize the gyre and get it spinning.

He added that disruptive winds, known as wind shear, could also be lower-another reason AccuWeather forecasters are monitoring the region for potential tropical development.

AccuWeather.com

Last June, a gyre helped with the formation of Tropical Storm Alberto, which made landfall along Mexico's Gulf coast shortly after the middle of the month.

A gyre also developed near the western Caribbean in June of 2023, although it did not lead to a named tropical storm.
May 7, 2025 at 6:09 AM

NEW DELHI (Reuters) -India launched strikes on Pakistan and Pakistani Kashmir on Wednesday, an assault its neighbour called a "blatant act of war" as tension spirals between the nuclear-armed rivals after a deadly attack on tourists in Indian Kashmir.

WHAT IS OPERATION SINDOOR?

India said its Operation Sindoor struck nine Pakistani sites on Wednesday that provided "terrorist infrastructure" and from which attacks against it were orchestrated. Its military spokesperson said the sites were completely destroyed.

Sindoor, which refers to the red vermilion powder worn by married Hindu women, is an apparent reference to the widows left by the April 22 attack that killed 26 men, most of them Hindu.

Islamabad has said six Pakistani locations, from dams to hydropower projects, were targeted, with two dozen weapon impacts. Its military has vowed to respond to the Indian strikes.

WHAT HAPPENED AFTER INDIA'S ATTACK?

A Pakistan military spokesperson told Reuters it shot down five Indian aircraft while they were in Indian airspace, a claim as yet unconfirmed by India.

Four local government sources in Indian Kashmir told Reuters three fighter jets had crashed in separate areas of the Himalayan region during the night, with their pilots admitted to hospital.

The two armies exchanged intense shelling and firing at various points across their de-facto border in Kashmir.

WHAT ABOUT CASUALTIES?

Pakistan said the attack killed 26 civilians and wounded 46 wounded. India said seven civilians were killed and 35 injured in cross-border shelling by Pakistani troops in Kashmir.

WHAT IS THE IMPACT ON AIRSPACE?

India shut several airports and as a result, airlines Air India, Akasa Air, Indigo and Spicejet cancelled flights.

Qatar Airways temporarily suspended flights to Pakistan.

Thai Airways said it would reroute flights to destinations in Europe and South Asia.

Pakistan International Airlines said airborne flights had been diverted to Karachi, while those scheduled placed on hold.

ARE CIVILIANS IMPACTED?

Pakistan's eastern province of Punjab declared a state of emergency, with hospitals and security forces on high alert.

Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistani Kashmir, lost power for a while after the explosions.

Schools in much of India's Jammu and Kashmir were shut on Wednesday.

(Reporting by Tanvi Mehta and Saad Sayeed; Editing by and Raju Gopalakrishnan and Clarence Fernandez)
May 7, 2025 at 8:25 AM

Madeleine McCann disappeared in 2007 while on holiday with her family in Praia De Luz, Portugal

A hard drive found at a disused factory bought by the prime suspect in the Madeleine McCann investigation contains evidence she is dead, it has been claimed.

German prosecutors believe Christian Brueckner killed the three-year-old after she vanished during a family holiday in Praia De Luz, Portugal, in 2007.

The drive was discovered in 2016 at a disused factory which Brueckner bought for 20,000 in 2008, according to The Sun.

Investigators also found an insurance document which proves the suspect was at a music festival where he is said to have confessed to killing Madeleine.

In 2017, Helge Busching told German authorities that Brueckner had made a comment about a missing girl at the festival in 2008 and that she did not scream.

Questions about the witnesss credibility always remained but this could strengthen his account of events with evidence Brueckner was at the festival.

Christian Brueckner, who is suspected of killing Madeleine McCann - JULIAN STRATENSCHULTE/POOL/AFP via Getty Images

Childrens clothes and toys were said to have been located at the abandoned property alongside masks, chemicals and guns.

German police also discovered six USB sticks and two memory cards in a wallet. The evidence was detected by a dog in 2016.

In one, the suspect described drugging a mother and daughter outside a nursery school, while another spoke of abusing a four-year-old girl.

Skype conversations with other paedophiles were also discovered, including one where he said he wanted to capture something small and use it for days.

Child abuse images of four and five-year-old girls were also said to have been found during the searches, and police unearthed more than 75 swimming costumes, alongside toys and small bikes.

A sat nav also showed Brueckner had been in the Algarve in the years after Madeleine disappeared.

The claims will air in full in a Channel 4 documentary on Wednesday night.

Representatives of Brueckner were contacted for comment.

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.
As the threat of severe thunderstorms and potential tornadoes lingers over parts of the Great Plains and Louisiana on May 7, forecasters warned that excessive rainfall could lead to additional flash flooding that has already turned deadly in Texas.

More than 8 million people were under flood watches issued by the National Weather Service across much of Louisiana and parts of Texas, Arkansas and Mississippi. Another pocket of flood watches covered parts of New York state, where rain on already saturated areas could lead to flooding from runoff and full rivers and streams.

On May 6, a 10-year-old girl in Texas was found dead after having been swept away in "rapidly rising flood waters" two days earlier in Brenham, the fire department said. Brenham is located about 90 miles east of Austin.

Meanwhile, another round of strong to severe thunderstorms was a risk in south Texas, with the main threat coming from large hail. More storms are expected across the Tennessee and mid-Mississippi valleys and Central Plains regions.

Houston weather forecast; storms to expand south

Strong to severe storms are expected in the Houston and Galveston area of Texas on May 7, forecasters there said. Widespread showers and thunderstorms will last through early afternoon, with the greatest risk of severe weather south of Interstate 10. Large hail, strong wind and localized minor flooding are all risks.

More rounds of storms are expected on May 8 from western and southern Texas along the Gulf Coast, bringing heavy rainfall and some flash flooding. Louisiana is especially at risk for additional flash flooding and excessive rain.

The rainfall is also set to expand into the Southeast, with 4 to 8 inches across northern Florida, Alabama, Georgia and the Carolinas over the next several days.

"Weeks' worth of rain will fall in a matter of days across parts of the South over the next few days as a storm crawls east," AccuWeather said in an advisory.

Meanwhile, more storms are headed to the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic on May 8, the weather service said. The region was hit by back-to-back thunderstorms in recent days and has more heavy rainfall to look forward to. The rain will be particularly focused on higher elevations of northeastern Pennsylvania, northwestern New Jersey and southern New York, the weather service said.

Flooding turns deadly in Texas

Brenham, Texas, in the east-central part of the state, was inundated by floodwaters amid heavy rainfall on already soaked ground earlier in the week of May 4. The Brenham Fire Department said 10-year-old Devah Woods, a third-grader at Brenham Elementary, was swept away at about 4:25 p.m. on May 4.

Bystanders tried to rescue the girl after she was caught in the quickly rising floodwaters. Crews spent two days searching for her amid ongoing severe weather using dogs, drones and thermal imaging technology. She was found dead at about 10 a.m. on May 6.

"This tragedy has deeply affected our community. We ask everyone to continue thinking and praying for Devahs family during this unimaginable time. In the face of heartache, Brenham has shown what it means to come together  with strength, compassion, and unity," the Brenham Fire Department said.

A street behind Old Iowa Park Road in Wichita Falls, Texas, is flooded after heavy rain on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

At the end of April, back-to-back days of severe storms brought tornadoes, damaging winds and flooding rains to a large swath of the country, leaving at least five dead in Oklahoma and Pennsylvania.

Where is this weather coming from?

The National Weather Service said an "omega block" has been dominating the weather patterns in recent days, but will "finally begin to evolve through mid-week." Unsettled weather isn't over with yet, however.

An omega block is so named because of its resemblance to the Greek letter omega (). According to Weather.com meteorologist Jonathan Erdman, "if you trace the path of the jet stream across the U.S. from the West to the East, you will trace out the Greek letter omega."

"This configuration blocks the typical west-to-east flow of the jet stream, much like a large rock in a small stream forces the flow of water around it," he said. "That's why meteorologists call it a blocking pattern."

It's a type of weather pattern typical of April and May, preventing the typical west-to-east movement of most storm systems. The result is the locking in of chilly and unsettled conditions in some parts of the country while milder and dry conditions exist in between. Read more.

Contributing: Doyle Rice, USA TODAY

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Severe weather, flash flooding threaten Texas, Louisiana and more
Advocates for ending Illinois' tipped wage gather outside the Illinois State Capitol BlueRoomStream

(The Center Square)  As efforts continue to eliminate the tipped minimum wage in Illinois, one major city that made the move is throwing in the towel.

After being blamed for the closure of numerous restaurants and thousands of job losses in the service industry, the mayor of Washington D.C. is calling for the repeal of a law requiring tipped employees to be paid the full minimum wage.

"D.C. restaurants are facing a perfect storm, from increased operating and supply costs to higher rents and unique labor challenges," Muriel Bowser said in a statement. "D.C. must rebalance our system to ensure local restaurants can survive, compete, and employ D.C. residents."

The announcement follows a six-hour hearing before the D.C. City Council where tipped workers expressed their opposition to the law and called for a halt to additional wage increases. Proponents of the One Fair Wage law in D.C. called the effort a success.

Chicago began phasing out the tipped wage last year and there is talk about ending it statewide. Mayor Brandon Johnson said eliminating the tipped wage has stabilized the workforce.

What was happening for many of those workers, particularly brown and Black women, couldnt find some level of stability and continuity, Johnson said on Tuesday.

The Illinois Restaurant Association opposes the law, citing fears that the increase in costs for operators would force them to raise prices and thus driving away customers, harming restaurant businesses in the long term.

Rebekah Paxton, research director of the nonprofit research group Employment Policies Institute, said what happened in D.C. should be a warning sign for Chicago and beyond.

Chicago already has lost 5,000 jobs or more, according to the best available data, said Paxton. We also know that service fees have been on the rise in Chicago so there are certainly early indicators of damage already done, and so we just hope that this is a flashing red warning sign for the rest of the country, especially Illinois.
Tanks are transported on a road in Muridke near Lahore, Pakistan, May 7, 2025. - Reuters

Tensions between India and Pakistan remain high days after Delhi launched airstrikes on its neighbor, sparking tit-for-tat military action from both sides this week and widespread confusion as competing claims and disinformation spread online.

Many countries are calling for restraint, fearing a wider devastating conflict could erupt. And they are also watching closely to see how weapons from both sides, acquired from China and parts of Europe, fare against each other in conflict. Saudi Arabias minister of state for foreign affairs arrived in Pakistans capital on Friday on a potential mission to calm tensions. The same day, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy spoke to both his Indian and Pakistani counterparts.

The latest escalation between the longtime foes has killed dozens on both sides so far. Indias initial Wednesday airstrikes killed at least 31 people and wounded 46 others, while Pakistani shelling from across the border have killed at least 16 civilians in the India-administered part of the disputed region of Kashmir, according to military and defense officials from both sides.

Further casualties were reported after both sides alleged drone strikes from the other  though Pakistan has denied carrying out such an attack, and India has not yet responded to the claims. CNN has not been able to independently verify these figures.

Meanwhile on the ground, fear and panic have set in on both sides of the border, especially in Kashmir, with residents sheltering in bunkers and reporting the sounds of explosions. Videos and photos show houses reduced to rubble, and streets deserted as people stay home.

The Indian Premier League cricket tournament, the most popular and richest league in the world, has been suspended for one week, said the sports national governing board, citing concern for the players.

The trigger for all this was a massacre in April that saw gunmen storm a scenic mountain spot in India-administered Kashmir and kill 26 people, mostly Indian tourists. India blamed Pakistan for the attack, which Islamabad denied.

Heres what we know so far.

What happened with Indias initial strikes?

India launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of Wednesday morning local time (Tuesday night ET) in both Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Indian officials claimed no Pakistani civilian, economic or military sites were struck in the 25-minute operation, which targeted the terrorist infrastructure of two militant groups  Lashkar-e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Indian officials argued the strikes were a proportionate response to the April massacre, and that Pakistans response afterward escalated the situation.

But Pakistan is painting a different picture of the strikes  saying civilians were killed and mosques were hit across six locations. CNN has yet to verify those claims.

Members of the media film the inside of a building after it was hit by an Indian strike in Bahawalpur, Pakistan, May 7, 2025. - Reuters

Some of those strikes hit the densely populated province of Punjab, Pakistans military said, and were the deepest India has struck inside Pakistan since one of their wars in 1971.

How did Pakistan respond? Did it shoot down Indias jets?

After the initial attack on Wednesday, Pakistan claimed it had used Chinese-made fighter jets to shoot down down five Indian Air Force jets  including three Rafales, sophisticated French-made jets that New Delhi only acquired a few years ago.

Uncertainty continues to swirl around these claims, as Indias government and military have stayed silent on the matter. CNN has been unable to verify the claim, and has reached out to the Indian Air Force and Ministry of Defense for comment.

But both the United States and France have assessed that Pakistan shot down at least one Rafale, senior officials from both countries told CNN. France is still investigating whether any more jets were brought down.

And multiple reports of plane crashes in Indian territory have emerged.

In Indias Punjab state, eyewitnesses and a local government official told CNN a plane crashed out of the night sky in the early hours of Wednesday  around the same time Pakistan claims it shot down the jets. The official told CNN the aircraft was unidentified but seems to be ours.

In Indian-administered Kashmir, eyewitnesses and a local official in the village of Wuyan said an unidentified aircraft crashed on Wednesday. Photos by AFP news agency showed plane wreckage, though its unclear who the aircraft belongs to or what brought it down.

What have both sides done since?

India said on Thursday it has targeted air defense systems in several locations in Pakistan  after initially saying it would not target Pakistani military installations.

On Friday both countries alleged the other had launched attacks or carried out firing during the previous night. An Indian military official claimed Pakistan targeted 36 Indian sites with 300 to 400 drones overnight on Thursday  which Islamabad has denied.

The official also said Pakistans military fired heavy-caliber artillery guns across the Line of Control that divides Kashmir, resulting in the deaths and injuries of some Indian army personnel. She added that Pakistans army also suffered major losses in Indian retaliatory fire.

Speaking to CNN on Friday, a senior Pakistani government source strongly rejected assertions that Pakistan had launched drone strikes against India. While acknowledging heavy shelling across the Line of Control, the source said Pakistan had not yet used any of its drones.

CNN is unable to verify either of these claims, and has reached out to both Pakistani and Indian governments for comment.

On Thursday, Pakistans information ministry claimed their forces have killed between 40 and 50 Indian soldiers along the Line of Control. CNN cannot verify the figures, and has sought comment from the Indian defense ministry.

The ongoing conflict and back-and-forth claims have sowed confusion and disruption on both sides of the border, with blackouts, drills and flight changes impacting daily life.

A resident living in Pakistani-administered Kashmir told CNN on Friday that tensions are high for those living near the de facto border. Our area is not in liveable condition. There has been heavily shelling in the area, Mukhtar Qureshi, a local resident from a village at the Chakothi sector, said.

Volunteers load a body into an ambulance after recovering it from a mosque damaged by an Indian missile strike near Muzaffarabad, in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, on Wednesday. - MD Mughal/AP

What prompted all of this? What is Kashmir?

Muslim-majority Kashmir has been a flashpoint in India-Pakistan relations since both countries gained their independence from Britain in 1947.

The two nations to emerge from the bloody partition of British India  Hindu-majority India and Muslim-majority Pakistan  both claim Kashmir in full and, months after becoming independent, fought their first of three wars over the territory.

The divided region is now one of the most militarized places in the world.

India has long accused Pakistan of harboring militant groups there that conduct attacks across the border, something Islamabad has long denied.

The massacre in the tourist hotspot of Pahalgam in April sparked widespread anger in India, putting heavy pressure on the Hindu-nationalist government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

India immediately blamed Islamabad, sparking tit-for-tat retaliatory measures in which both countries downgraded ties, canceled visas for each others citizens, and saw India pull out of a key water-sharing treaty.

What could come next?

The last India-Pakistan war over Kashmir in 1999 killed more than 1,000 Pakistani troops, by the most conservative estimates.

In the decades since, the two countries have clashed multiple times, most recently in 2019 when India conducted airstrikes in Pakistan after it blamed Islamabad for a suicide car bomb attack in the region.

But those recent clashes did not explode into all-out war. Both sides are aware of the risks; since 1999, the two countries have worked to strengthen their militaries, including arming themselves with nuclear weapons.

CNNs Hira Humayun and Nic Robertson contributed to this story.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
I had to change my vacation plans when my friend was forced to cancel on me at the last minute. Luckily, I turned my disappointment into a whole new solo vacation. Kylea Henseler

I canceled my girls' trip to Colombia when my friend unexpectedly couldn't meet me there.

By the time she told me, I was at my layover in LA. So, I took a last-minute solo trip to Hawaii.

Next time, we'll check international travel requirements earlier and consider travel insurance.

After months of planning, my college roommate, a Brazilian national, and I were set for a weeklong reunion in Cartagena, Colombia.

She'd be leaving out of Brazil, and I'd depart from Colorado with a layover in Los Angeles. We were excited to spend our trip having spa days, delicious Colombian food, and dance parties at beach clubs.

But as I deplaned at LAX and headed to the international terminal, my buddy called me with unfortunate news: She wasn't allowed to board her flight to Cartagena.

We called off the Colombia trip, but I was now alone in Los Angeles

At the time, individuals coming directly from the US did not need the yellow-fever vaccine to enter Colombia, but travelers from Brazil did.

Before boarding her flight, she was asked to provide proof of vaccination. She had documents showing she'd gotten it as a child and attempted to get updated paperwork before the trip.

Unfortunately, she didn't receive it in time, and her old documents were deemed insufficient. Although I could've gone to Colombia alone, we called off the trip.

Our itinerary wouldn't have been as fun or safe if I were solo. Plus, the trip would've been pretty expensive for me since we'd booked everything with the intention of splitting costs.

Fortunately, I found silver linings. Most of our reservations in Colombia didn't require up-front payment, so we didn't lose money canceling our hotel.

Since I'd used refundable miles to purchase one of my flights, I got back a $250 American Airlines voucher when I canceled it.

I pivoted quickly and ended up taking a solo trip to Hawaii

The trip I ended up on was far from the one we'd planned, but I loved it. Kylea Henseler

It turns out my $250 voucher was just enough for a one-way ticket from Los Angeles to Honolulu.

So I spent the night in a motel, regrouped, and returned to LAX in the morning with a new flight, determined not to let my first bikini wax go to waste.

I didn't have many plans once I got to Hawaii  I was just happy to be there. Luckily, the hostel I booked last-minute scheduled outings every day, so I got to explore the island with a cool group of travelers around my age.

I enjoyed tackling the famous Koko Head hike, training jujitsu at a great Hawaiian gym, and hitting the local bars each night.

It was a pretty great, if unexpected, week of solo travel.

I'm proud of how well I adapted, and this experience taught me a few lessons

Just over a year later, I'm planning another trip with my Brazilian bestie. And yes, this time, we both plan to research the entry requirements for our destination even further in advance and follow them to a "T."

I'm also considering paying extra for travel insurance, since I still lost about $500 on canceled plane tickets from the Colombia trip.

Above all, though, I'm proud I made the most of a disappointing situation  and I feel pretty lucky I could give myself a solo week in Honolulu as a consolation prize for a canceled international trip with a friend.

Read the original article on Business Insider
WASHINGTON  Vice President JD Vance said the United States believes the next step in negotiations to end the Russia-Ukraine war is for the nations to agree to basic guidelines for direct talks, and the United States is willing to participate in the conversations.

But the vice president said the Trump administration believes Russia is "asking for too much" and now believes it is "probably impossible" for Americans to mediate the conflict without at least some direct conversations between the nations that have been at war since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.

"I wouldn't say that the Russians are uninterested in bringing this thing to a resolution. What I would say is, right now, the Russians are asking for a certain set of requirements, a certain set of concessions in order to end the conflict. We think they're asking for too much," Vance said May 7 at the Munich Leaders Meeting in Washington, D.C.

More: Former President Joe Biden accuses Trump of appeasement of Russia

Various officials in the Trump administration, including the president, have threatened to quit peace negotiations if the United States does not feel that enough progress is being made towards a deal. Vance indicated that the ultimatums were likely to come at every stage of the talks and said he had soured on the prospects of a deal.

"It's very important for the Russians and the Ukrainians to start talking to one another," Vance said May 7 at the Munich Leaders Meeting in Washington, D.C. "We think that is the next big step that we would like to take."

The vice president's assessment came as news to President Donald Trump, who indicated at a White House event several hours later that he wasn't aware of Vance's remarks on Russian demands in peace negotiations.

"When did he say that?" Trump asked.

"Well it's possible he's right," the president continued. "We are getting to a point where some decisions are going to have to be made. I'm not happy about it. I'm not happy about it."

U.S. Vice President JD Vance participates in a discussion at a Munich Security Conference event in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 7, 2025. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque

One key issue the United States has moved on from is securing a temporary ceasefire. Ukraine has agreed to a 30-day ceasefire. Russia doesnt view that as in their strategic interests, Vance said.

So we've tried to move beyond the obsession with a 30-day ceasefire, and more on the what would the long-term settlement look like, and we've tried to consistently advance the ball," the vice president added in his remarks.

Vance defended talks between the Trump administration and Russia that have been criticized by Ukraine backers, saying they are aimed at forcing Moscow to outline what it wants in exchange for ending the conflict.

"And certainly the first peace offer that the Russians put on the table, our reaction to it was, 'You're asking for too much.' But this is how negotiations unfold," Vance said.

VP softens tone on Europe

Vance took a more congenial approach to the discussion than he did during a February speech at the group's marquee conference in Munich that sparked backlash from American allies after he blasted European nations for dismissing the concerns of their electorate and combating misinformation through censorship.

In the Feb. 14 Munich speech, Vance told European nations that the biggest threat to European security is not China, Russia or any other external actor. "What I worry about is the threat from within, the retreat of Europe from some of its most fundamental values," he said.

More: JD Vance's half brother Cory Bowman will face off against Democrat in Cincinnati mayor race

But in Washington, he made a softer play, telling the group that his Munich remarks were meant to apply to the Biden administration as much as they did Europe.

Its not Europe bad, America good, Vance said.

Rather, he said, both nations got a little bit off track" in recent years. "I'd encourage us all to get back on track together."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: JD Vance says Russia is 'asking for too much' to end Ukraine war
Former Memphis Police Department officer Justin Smith Jr., right, becomes emotional as he hugs Michael Stengel, left, the defense attorney for fellow former officer Demetrius Haley, after Smith and the other two former officers were found not guilty on all charges by the jury on the ninth day of the trial for the death of Tyre Nichols in Memphis, Tenn., Wednesday, May 7, 2025. (Chris Day/Commercial Appeal/USA Today Network via AP, Pool)

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP)  Three former Memphis officers were acquitted Wednesday of all state charges, including second-degree murder, in the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols after he ran away from a traffic stop, a death that sparked nationwide protests and prompted renewed calls for police reforms in the U.S.

An out-of-town jury from a majority-white county took about 8 1/2 hours over two days to find Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley and Justin Smith not guilty on all charges after a nine-day trial in state court in Memphis, which is majority-Black. After the jury's verdict was read, the defendants hugged their lawyers as relatives of the former officers cried. Outside the courtroom, one relative yelled, Thank you, Jesus!

Martin Zummach, Smiths attorney, told The Associated Press by text: Its easy to defend a good person. Its nerve racking to represent an innocent man. 

The three defendants still face the prospect of years in prison after they were convicted of federal charges, though they were acquitted of the most serious charges there, too. Two other former officers previously pleaded guilty in both state and federal court, including Emmitt Martin, who defense attorneys blamed for the majority of the violence.

Bean and Smith are out on bond and under house arrest after their federal convictions. Haley is being held in federal prison.

Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man, fled a traffic stop after he was yanked out of his car, pepper-sprayed and hit with a Taser. Five officers who are also Black caught up with him and punched, kicked and hit him with a police baton, struggling to handcuff Nichols as he called out for his mother just steps from his home. Nichols died Jan. 10, 2023, three days after the beating.

Footage of the beating captured by a police pole camera also showed the officers milling about, talking and laughing as Nichols struggled with his injuries, video that prompted intense scrutiny of police in Memphis.

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who represents Nichols family, issued a statement expressing outrage at the outcome of the trial.

Todays verdicts are a devastating miscarriage of justice, the statement reads. The world watched as Tyre Nichols was beaten to death by those sworn to protect and serve.

Memphis District Attorney Steve Mulroy said he respects the jury but thinks the evidence was there for every charge that prosecutors brought.

Was I surprised that there wasnt a single guilty verdict on any of the counts or any of the lesser-included offenses, given the overwhelming evidence that we presented? Yes, I was surprised. Do I have an explanation for it? No.

He said he spoke to Nichols family briefly and, They were devastated. ... I think they were outraged, and we can understand why they would be outraged, given the evidence.

Defense attorneys said Martin was responsible for the most violence

Former Memphis officers Desmond Mills Jr. and Martin, who were also involved in the beating, did not stand trial in state court after they agreed to a plea deal with prosecutors. They also pleaded guilty in federal court, where sentencing for all five officers is pending.

At trial, defense attorneys emphasized that Martin kicked and punched Nichols several times in the head.

The defense also seemed to score points with their use-of-force experts, who testified that the three officers on trial acted in compliance with police department policies and widely accepted law enforcement standards. Attorneys for Bean and Smith called character witnesses who testified that the men were good officers who did their job the right way.

Mills testified for the prosecution, saying he regrets his failure to stop the beating, which led to Nichols death from blunt force trauma. Nichols suffered tears and bleeding in the brain, Dr. Marco Ross, the medical examiner who performed the autopsy, said in court testimony.

The officers had been charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct and official oppression. In addition to beating Nichols, prosecutors also said the officers failed to intervene and failed to tell medical personnel that Nichols had been hit repeatedly in the head.

The defense argued that Nichols was resisting arrest

Mills acknowledged on the stand that he had a duty to intervene, but didnt. He admitted Nichols never punched or kicked any of the officers.

But Mills also bolstered the defense's case when he said Nichols was actively resisting arrest and not complying with orders to present his hands to be cuffed. Under cross-examination, he indicated he would not have struck Nichols if Nichols had put his hands behind his back. He also agreed that an officer is not safe until a suspect is handcuffed and searched for a weapon.

Zummach noted in closing arguments that credit and debit cards that did not belong to Nichols were found in his car when it was searched after the beating and said it was likely why Nichols ran from the traffic stop. Defense lawyers have argued that the fatal beating would not have taken place if Nichols had just allowed himself to be handcuffed.

This is Emmitt Martins and Tyre Nichols doing, Zummach said.

The jury for the state trial was chosen in Hamilton County, which includes Chattanooga, after Judge James Jones Jr. ordered the case be heard from people outside of Shelby County, which includes Memphis. Defense lawyers for the officers had argued that intense publicity made seating a fair jury difficult.

Prosecutor Paul Hagerman told reporters outside the courtroom that the Chattanooga area was chosen for jury selection after the city was shown in a study to have the least amount of pre-trial publicity among Tennessees largest cities.

In December, the U.S. Justice Department said a 17-month investigation showed the Memphis Police Department uses excessive force and discriminates against Black people.

The five officers, the city of Memphis and the police chief are being sued by Nichols family for $550 million. A trial has been scheduled for next year.

___

Associated Press reporters Jonathan Mattise and Travis Loller in Nashville contributed to this report.
Lay's is adding a new potato chip flavor, inspired by a popular dish in Thai cuisine, to its lineup.

The snack brand announced the release of its new Thai-Style Red Curry Lay's days after announcing the finalists for this year's "Do Us A Flavor" contest on April 9.

Lay's received more than 700,000 submissions for the contest, allowing fans to submit ideas for original potato chip flavors for a chance to win $1 million and see their creation in stores.

Thai Style Red Curry Lay's, the snack brand's newest flavor, are available in select Kroger stores.

Thai-Style Red Curry Lay's, like the three "Do Us A Flavor" contest finalists, have a savory and spicy kick to them.

PepsiCo, which owns Frito-Lay, said the new chips are "seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices and a subtle kick of heat for a delicious snacking experience inspired by the vibrant flavors of Thailand."

Here's how and where to get them.

How to get Thai-Style Red Curry Lay's

Thai-Style Red Curry Lay's, a Kroger exclusive, will be available at Kroger stores through June. Kroger spokesperson Erin Rolfes said the chips are "available in all divisions except Ruler and Harris Teeter."

According to Rolfe, the Thai-Style Red Curry Lay's will be "in stores nationally and not exclusively beginning June 1."

What are the 'Do Us A Flavor' finalists?

The finalists for Lay's "Do Us A Flavor" contest include Valentina & Lime, Bacon Grilled Cheese and Korean-Style Fried Chicken. The three new and original flavored Lay's are "currently rolling" onto shelves nationwide, according to PepsiCo.

Customers can try the three flavors and vote for their favorite at DoUsAFlavor.com until June 13.

Valentina & Lime Lay's: Araceli Huerta of San Jose, California, who came up with the original flavor profile, was inspired by the flavors of a childhood snack made by her mom, classic Lay's chips tossed with Valentina hot sauce and fresh lime.

Bacon Grilled Cheese Lay's: Paula George of Sapulpa, Oklahoma, who developed the original flavor profile, drew inspiration from her late fathers bacon grilled cheese recipe.

Wavy Korean-Style Fried Chicken Lay's: Neelia Lynn of Chesterfield, Virginia, who thought of the original flavor profile, was inspired by her familys time in South Korea.

Lay's announced the three finalists for their Do Us A Flavor contest on Wednesday.

Lay's All Dressed flavor debuted in January

While Thai-Style Red Curry Lay's and the "Do Us A Flavor" finalists might be the snack brand's newest innovations, they aren't the only ones the snack brand has recently released.

Lay's All Dressed, released in January, "brings together the tastes of Barbecue, Salt & Vinegar and Sour Cream & Onion flavors  all in one delicious bite."

Lay's All Dressed chips been available for purchase at grocery stores nationwide since January.

This is the "most requested Lays flavor and among the four most requested PepsiCo Foods flavor innovations in the US," PepsiCo said in a statement. The company said the All Dressed flavor "previously graced the snack aisle" for a limited time in 2021, 2023 and 2024.

Contributing: Gabe Hauari, USA TODAY

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Lay's launches new Thai-Style Red Curry flavored chips
We may earn money from links on this page, but commission does not influence what we write or the products we recommend. AOL upholds a rigorous editorial process to ensure what we publish is fair, accurate and trustworthy.

Lenny Kravitz is the epitome of the phrase rocking a beard like a rockstar. Hes worn his beard at various lengths throughout the years, and its safe to say that no matter what his aesthetic at the moment, the man is the ultimate spokesperson for facial hair. So naturally, if youre someone with a beard or even remotely pondering one, you might want to take every bit of advice he might have to offer up on the matter, no matter what it is.

Luckily, though, this recommendation is far from wild and doesnt involve any luxury-priced facial hair grooming products or unrealistic routines and treatments. On the contrary, it features the very modestly-priced $27 Wahl Groomsman Beard Trimmer Kit available on Amazon. In an interview with The Strategist, Kravitz mentioned this had been his go-to beard tool for decades.

Its been my trimmer since junior high, and Ive become a surgeon with these things," Kravitz told the publication. "I can shave with them and look like I got a real close shave like I used a razor. But I dont go clean too often. Usually, Ill put on one of the guards to keep a bit of hair on my face.

With that said, if Lenny Kravitz swearing by this beard trimmer since middle school isnt all the information you need, keep reading to learn more about what the Wahl Groomsman can do.

Wahl Wahl Groomsman Rechargeable Beard Trimmer Kit This trimmer kit gets the seal of approval from Lenny Kravitz  and nearly 73,000 Amazon shoppers. For less than $30, you can get a trimmer, a nose trimmer, 14 cutting lengths, a comb, a brush, and oil to keep the blades whirring smoothly. Pros Affordable

Rechargable

Feels sturdy

Customizable cuts Cons Loud

Poor battery life $30 at Amazon

Why we love this kit too

It caters to a wide range of beard styles and skin types.

The Wahl Groomsman comes with a large assortment of attachments, allowing the user to achieve up to 14 different beard lengths ranging from 1/16 to  inch. The kit comes with four stubble guards, three beard guards, and a 6 position guide for multiple cutting lengths. And if youre after an occasional shave, this can offer the functional versatility to make it happen. Like Kravitz said, once you master the device you can even achieve a look thats very close to a clean shave, which is great if youre sensitive to razor burn and bumps. My skin is too sensitive to shave with a razor, but this has never irritated me. It keeps my facial hair together, Kravitz tells The Strategist.

Its easy to use and maintain.

Beard trimmer blades often get dull over time and require you to either sharpen or replace them. And dull blades can lead to uneven or pulled-out hairs, making for a less-than-stellar shave. But the Wahl Groomsman features self-sharpening blades to combat that issue, which also makes it easier to maintain the trimmer. Additionally, this kit features an ear and nose hair trimmer that you can rinse off under water for an easy clean.

This is also a great travel device since it supports worldwide voltage and is compatible with both 110v and 220v. It is also rechargeable, allowing for a 60-minute run time on a single charge, so you dont even need to take a full charger with you if its an overnight or short trip.

The price is right.

Beard trimmers can be pretty pricey, with some models going for upwards of $150. With nearly 73,000 reviews on Amazon, a majority of which fell between 4 and 5 stars, itll be hard to find something as highly rated and popular as this for just $27.

What reviewers don't like

It seems that the most frequently mentioned downside reviewers mention is the noise. Some people note that this trimmer is pretty loud, which doesnt make it very comfortable to use as an ear hair trimmer. On that note, the ear and nose attachment doesnt run off of a charge like the beard trimming function but instead requires batteries.

Should you buy this?

Outside of needing a single AA battery and a little noise, this is a great option. After combing through the overwhelmingly positive reviews, the consensus is that this is a well-rounded beard-trimming kit that gets the job done, especially based on what youre getting for the price. And I mean, is there a better person to endorse a beard grooming kit than Lenny Kravitz? Probably not. Plus, the brand is reputable. So, if youre a fan of Lenny Kravitzs beard and need a new trimmer, you might want to consider giving this beard-trimming kit a shot.

If you have any questions about this trimmer  or you just wanna chat about your favorite products you think we should check out  send us an email at shopping.editors@aol.com and we'll write you back!
PHOENIX  Erika Mateo resigned herself to the grim reality that she would die in the desert. Worse was the thought of losing her unborn daughter.

The 24-year-old was nearing the final month of her pregnancy and wandering alone through the Sonoran Desert south of the United States-Mexico border. She had been separated from her group, unable to keep up because of her condition.

Some of them tried to help me, but they were also afraid of being caught, Mateo said in a Phoenix hotel room, shortly after her release from Department of Homeland Security custody.

"Thats when I suddenly found myself lost, not knowing where to walk or where the path was, she said in Spanish to a reporter from the Arizona Republic, part of the USA TODAY Network.

In the week since her desert ordeal, Mateos story has become a flashpoint, sparking community outrage, drawing international attention and pushing local elected officials to help save her from having to choose between quickly leaving the United States with her newborn or leaving her behind under state care.

Thanks to that attention, Mateo has avoided expedited deportation proceedings, becoming one of a handful of people to receive a Notice to Appear from the Border Patrol  the first step in the process to petition for asylum, which has been rarely afforded since President Donald Trump returned to office.

In February and March, the first two complete months of this Trump administration, only three people have been issued this form after being held in Border Patrol custody, as reported by U.S. Customs and Border Protections open data portal. The figures for April remain undisclosed.

By comparison, in December, the last full month of President Joe Bidens tenure in office, more than 7,000 Notices to Appear were issued.

Desert rescue

Mateo had traveled from her home in Guatemala, now more than 2,000 miles away from the maze she was traversing to enter the United States. Mateo left behind a large family: her mother and father, as well as her brothers and sisters. She remained in contact with them along her journey.

In the interview, she did not say why she left her home country. Her attorney told The Republic her migration was "for fear of violence.

Allan Perez Hernandez, the Guatemalan consul of Tucson, described Mateos mother as an Indigenous woman from the Huehuetenango region of Guatemala, an area in the country's impoverished Western Highlands from which hundreds have fled.

According to the United Nations Human Rights Council, widespread violence, organized crime, socioeconomic instability and poverty are the primary reasons why people are leaving Guatemala and other nations in the Northern Triangle of Central America.

Whatever drove her to leave, the last days of Mateo's journey were terrible.

I walked and walked, but everything looked the same. It was like walking in place, Mateo said. She was frantic. I would burst into tears pleading with God to help me find a way or for someone to find me.

She feared being attacked by coyotes, snakes or any other animals hunting in the moonlight. But the stillness of the desert was what she feared most, Mateo said.

The silence was horrible. I couldnt hear anything, she said.

Mateo walked for two days in the desert, hoping to reach a highway to wave down help. On her second day, she reached the border wall in a remote part of southwestern Arizona near Sasabe.

She walked along the fence until she found a gap that allowed her to cross into America.

I was exhausted. I was thirsty. I was hungry. So I sat down, she said, and found she could no longer get up. Pains in her stomach began soon after. I gave up. This was as far as I was going to make it.

This is how it ends for me, she told herself.

Instead, Mateo was found by Border Patrol agents near the fence, close to an area referred to as Tres Bellotas Ranch, approximately 74 miles from Tucson.

She was given a bottle of water by Border Patrol, taken to be fingerprinted and processed, then to a detention center, she said.

Giving birth

When she woke up the next day, she began to feel contractions.

Taken to Tucson Medical Center, I was told that I was at risk of losing my unborn child because of dehydration in the desert, Mateo said.

But Baby Emily was born healthy on the evening of April 30, weighing 6 pounds.

I know that I risked her life, but she is doing well, she said, studying the newborns tiny features.

Erika Mateo holds her newborn, named Emily, as she sits in her Phoenix hotel room on May 3, 2025. She said she never separated herself from her child for fear the baby would be taken away from her.

After giving birth, Mateo remained in the hospital in the custody of CBP, with agents stationed at her hospital room door. She had given birth to a U.S. citizen child, but the circumstances surrounding her entry into the country made her future uncertain. She faced the risk of swift deportation under the Trump administrations expedited removal policy.

I was scared that they would take away my baby, so I never separated myself from her, Mateo said. They told me the decision was up to me.

Legal representation

Shortly after, Luis Campos, a Tucson-based immigration attorney, became aware of Mateo's situation.

"I called the family back in Guatemala. They told me, 'Please help, please represent her," Campos told The Republic on May 2. Mateo agreed to the lawyer's offer to represent her pro bono.

But when he tried to visit her at the hospital, he was turned away.

Federal officers said he needed a signed G-28 form identifying him as the woman's lawyer before he could see her, Campos said.

"I need to see her so she can sign the document. I can't give you a signed G-28 because you're not giving me access to my client," Campos said he told the officer.

Erika Mateo and her lawyer, Luis Campos, a Tucson-based attorney who has practiced immigration law for nearly 30 years, discuss what comes next in Mateo and her newborn's journey. Photo taken on May 3, 2025, in Phoenix.

CBP said in a statement that it had acted appropriately. At all times, agents followed the law and adhered to CBP procedures. No entitlements were denied," the statement said.

Without access to Mateo, Campos felt he had no other recourse but to go public, describing what he called a denial of the Fifth Amendment constitutional right to speak to a lawyer and due process.

A community responds

Hundreds showed up May 3 to protest Campos being denied access to Mateo, as well as changes made by the Trump administration to U.S. immigration and asylum policies.

We have a very active community here. You know, being a border city, we're trying to help people who have been affected by the new strict immigration laws, said Margaret Smith, a mother of five, who joined the protest. We've been noticing community members literally disappearing ever since Trump was in office.

These are our community members. They're our neighbors. We don't want to send our friends away. We don't care where they're from, Smith said about undocumented residents and mixed-status families in her community. We would want them to stand up for us, so we're standing up. Tucson is resisting.

On the nightstand of Erika Mateo's hotel room in Phoenix on May 3, 2025, a balloon with the words "It's a girl!" and a baby bottle were among her few possessions, along with four bags of clothes and baby supplies she had received from Tucson Medical Center.

Campos and Tucson activists caught the attention of elected officials in Arizona and media outlets worldwide.

Tucson Mayor Regina Romero posted a supportive statement on her social media accounts.

People in the United States, regardless of legal status, have a fundamental right to due process that has been reaffirmed by the Supreme Court as recently as April 7, 2025, Romero wrote. Denying this mother access to legal representation is both inhumane and a violation of her basic rights.

The mayor called the denial of Mateos ability to speak with her attorney federal overreach.

It is unacceptable to treat a medical facility as an extension of xenophobic policies, especially when a newborns health and safety are at stake, she wrote, urging compassion and respect for due process.

Gov. Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, also weighed in.

While Gov. Hobbs supports securing the border, she has been clear in her opposition to inhumane immigration enforcement practices, Hobbs' spokesperson, Liliana Soto, said May 2 on X. The governor will continue fighting to protect the constitutional rights of every Arizonan and keep our communities safe.

On May 3, journalists were told that the Governors Office was actively engaging with federal and local officials to gather further information.

A reprieve

Initial reporting indicated that Mateo was facing expedited removal. She had the option to either bring her newborn with her when she was deported or leave the baby in the United States, a CBP spokesperson told the Arizona Daily Star.

Campos said, "I believe that the public support for her and the outcry for what was happening might have helped in this case."

In the hotel room in Phoenix, Mateo expressed relief at being out of CBP processing centers and waiting rooms.

Obviously, its better than being in the desert, she giggled, laughing away the helplessness she felt while lost. But you know you still feel a depression, an anxiety. It was cold in there.

Mateo and her baby were discharged from the hospital on May 2. She returned to the processing center where she had previously spent the night.

She was awakened at about 4 a.m. on May 3 for the newborn to be seen by a pediatrician.

Mateo was then handed over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody.

In a news release on May 5, the agency said that after the transfer, ICE Phoenix Enforcement and Removal Operations immediately released her under its Alternatives To Detention program while awaiting her appearance before an immigration judge with the Justice Departments Executive Office for Immigration Review.

Her attorney made the two-hour drive up from Tucson to the Phoenix area and picked up Mateo in the parking lot of a school.

We met Erika for the first time, and she seemed completely healthy, the attorney said in the lobby of a Phoenix hotel room a few hours after the pick-up. We loaded her items into our car off the IRC van, and we brought her to this hotel. She is exhausted.

Mateo's only possessions included four bags with clothes and baby supplies given to her at the Tucson hospital.

She was also given two important legal documents, including the Notice to Appear, which communicates that she would be scheduled for a hearing before an immigration court in Tennessee, where she has a family friend with whom she plans to stay, Campos said.

Although her journey through the American immigration court system is only just beginning, Mateo expressed joy that she and her daughter are now safe in the United States and gratitude to the community that rallied around her.

There are people that, even without knowing you, still offer their support. I am so grateful to them, Mateo said. I will never be able to pay them for what theyve done for me, including my lawyer, but theres a God that will bless them.

USA TODAY is publishing only a single last name for Mateo. Campos expressed concern about his clients full name being published, citing safety concerns for her well-being and her family in Guatemala.

Reach the reporter at rromeroruiz@gannett.com and follow him on X, formerly Twitter, @raphaeldelag.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Lost and pregnant at US-Mexico border: Migrant tells her story
By Mike Scarcella

(Reuters) -A federal appeals court on Wednesday rejected a legal challenge by the Federal Trade Commission to Microsoft's $69 billion purchase of Call of Duty maker Activision Blizzard.

The San Francisco-based 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower judge's order that said the FTC was not entitled to a preliminary injunction blocking the deal, which closed in 2023.

A three-judge panel unanimously ruled that the lower judge had applied the correct legal standards and said the FTC had not shown it was likely to succeed on its claims that the merger would restrict competition.

A spokesperson for the FTC declined to comment. Microsoft did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The decision came in an antitrust lawsuit filed by the Federal Trade Commission in 2022 against Xbox maker Microsoft.

The FTC, which enforces antitrust law, separately challenged the merger in an internal administrative action. That proceeding was placed on hold in 2023 during President Joe Biden's administration, pending the 9th Circuit's decision.

The Activision Blizzard transaction marked the largest-ever acquisition in the video gaming market. The deal closed in late 2023 after competition authorities in the UK approved it. The purchase also faced regulatory scrutiny in other international markets.

The FTC's lawsuit sought an order freezing the Activision transaction while the agency pursued its administrative challenge.

The agency claimed the Microsoft-Activision tie-up would allow the merged company to fend off competitors to the Xbox console and to its subscription and cloud-based gaming business.

U.S. District Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley had refused to block the acquisition in July 2023, finding that the FTC had not shown Microsoft's ownership of Activision would "substantially lessen competition in the video game library subscription and cloud gaming markets."

The FTC argued in its appeal that the court applied an overly stringent standard in weighing whether to grant a preliminary injunction.

(Reporting by Mike Scarcella; additional reporting by Jody Godoy in New York; Editing by Leslie Adler)
A sick neo-Nazi sextortion ring that blackmails teens into making sick videos has become so prevalent across the US that every FBI field office in the country has at least one open case on the group, according to a shocking new report.

The FBI currently has more than 250 open investigations into the group, known as 764, among other aliases, the agency told ABC.



This cult-like network has ties to neo-Nazis and Satanism, officials said.

Its members target young teens on platforms like Discord and Roblox and intimidate them into filming themselves posing nude, torturing family pets, cutting symbols into their own bodies and other acts of psychological torment and extreme violence, the FBI said.

A photo of a nude Barbie doll taken by a 17-year-old girl targeted by the 764 group. Vernon Police Department)

764 propaganda that was shared on Telegram.

Bradley Cadenhead, who went by Felix and Brad764 online, created 764 in 2020 when he was 15 and named it after his zip code. Erath County Jail



764 is a network of nihilistic violent extremists  seeking to destroy civilized society through the corruption and exploitation of vulnerable populations, which often include minors, the agency said.

Bradley Cadenhead founded the group in 2020 and named it after part of his own zip code.

Since then, its reach has spread throughout the United States and beyond.



All of the agencys 55 field offices have at least one 764-related case, FBI assistant director David Scott, who leads the FBIs Counterterrorism Division, told ABC.

A general view of the J. Edgar Hoover FBI Building or FBI Headquarters in Washington, DC Christopher Sadowski

Authorities arrested two suspected members last month: Prasan Nepa Leonidas Varagiannis, a.k.a. War, 21, and Prasan Nepal, a.k.a. Trippy, 20.

The pair are accused of targeting children as young as 13 years old online, intimidating them into making explicit videos.

This content includes cut signs and blood signs through which young girls would cut symbols into their bodies, the FBI said in a statement.

Members share these videos among themselves and use them to blackmail victims into increasingly disgusting acts, the FBI said.

Mugshot of Prasan Nepa Leonidas Varagiannis, a.k.a. War, 21, arrested in Greece and accused of orchestrating 764 attacks. U.S. Department of Justice

764 propaganda that was shared on Telegram. Among the renderings were images with both the monikers Trippy and War.

Police arrested a 17-year-old girl in Vernon, Connecticut, last year for allegedly calling in bomb and swatting schools and places of worship, NBC Connecticut reported.

Investigators discovered photos of her posing nude, mutilating herself, and a shot of a nude Barbie doll with 764 written on its face.

The FBI caught wind of the network in 2021, after arresting one of its members in Queens on gun charges.

Sources told The Guardian that 764 is an outgrowth of an older, larger organization known as the Order of Nine Angles  which the Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD) called a decentralized, Satanic, neo-Nazi organization bent on the overthrow of Western governments.
By Nora Eckert

DETROIT (Reuters) - Ford Motor is hiking prices on three of its Mexico-produced models effective May 2, becoming one of the first major automakers to adjust sticker prices following U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs.

Prices on the Mustang Mach-E electric SUV, Maverick pickup and Bronco Sport will increase by as much as $2,000 on some models, according to a notice sent to dealers reviewed by Reuters.

Ford earlier this week said U.S. President Donald Trump's trade war would add about $2.5 billion in costs for 2025, but it expects to reduce that exposure by around $1 billion. Rival General Motors said last week tariffs were projected to cost it between $4 billion and $5 billion following the imposition of hefty levies on foreign imports of automobiles, but it expected to offset that by at least 30%.

A Ford spokesperson said the price hikes will affect vehicles built after May 2, which would arrive at dealer lots in late June. The spokesperson said the price hikes reflect "usual" mid-year pricing actions, "combined with some tariffs we are facing. We have not passed on the full cost of tariffs to our customers."

Ford shares fell less than 1% in morning trading. The automaker is still running a discount program through the July 4 weekend on many of its models, the spokesperson said.

Trump's tariffs have unleashed weeks of uncertainty across the auto sector, as major carmakers in the United States and Europe have pulled forecasts, shifted production and caused companies to idle plants.

Following weeks of pushback from the auto industry, Trump softened his tariffs on foreign auto parts imports to give carmakers credits for what is produced in the U.S. and to avoid double-tariffs on raw materials used in auto production. However, the White House has not rescinded a 25% tariff on the 8 million vehicles the U.S. imports annually.

Analysts have said U.S. auto sales could drop by more than 1 million vehicles a year if tariffs were to remain in place.

Ford is in a better position to weather tariffs than some of its competitors because of its strong U.S. manufacturing base. The Dearborn, Michigan automaker assembles 79% of its U.S.-sold vehicles domestically, compared to GM's 53%, Barclays analysts said in a note.

Still, Ford imports one of its most affordable and popular vehicles, the Maverick, from Mexico. Most major U.S. automakers face significant price hikes on their cheaper models produced in the country.

Ford and GM also face significant levies on imports from China and South Korea, respectively. GM estimated that the costs on its Korean imports totaled about $2 billion, while Ford declined to specify the expenses around importing vehicles from China.

(Reporting by Nora Eckert; Editing by Andrew Heavens, Kirsten Donovan)
May 7, 2025 at 6:46 AM

Dubai (Reuters) -Sudan's army said its anti-aircraft systems intercepted drones targeting the countrys largest naval base in the wartime capital Port Sudan on Wednesday.

Explosions were heard in the city, though it was not immediately clear whether they were near the Flamingo base.

Port Sudan has been hit by days of assaults - included reported drone strikes by Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) - that have torched the country's biggest fuel depots and damaged its main gateway for humanitarian aid.

Port Sudan had enjoyed relative calm since the civil war between the army and the RSF erupted in April 2023.

The city on the Red Sea coast became the base for the army-aligned government after the RSF swept through much of the capital Khartoum at the start of the conflict.

The drone strikes on Port Sudan opened a new front, targeting the army's main stronghold in eastern Sudan after it drove the RSF back westwards across much of central Sudan, including Khartoum, in March.

(Writing by Enas Alashray; Editing by Christian Schmollinger and Andrew Heavens)
By Patricia Zengerle

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A group of U.S. senators wants Congress' watchdog agency to investigate whether controls on humanitarian aid deliveries by Israel and other foreign governments violate U.S. law, according to a letter seen by Reuters.

The six senators - Chris Van Hollen, Dick Durbin, Jeff Merkley, Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren and Peter Welch - wrote to Comptroller General Gene Dodaro asking him to launch an investigation by the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office of the U.S. government's implementation of laws regarding the delivery of humanitarian assistance. All of the senators are Democrats except Sanders, an Independent who caucuses with Democrats.

"In Ethiopia, Sudan, Ukraine, Burma, Syria, Nagorno-Karabakh, and Gaza, vital humanitarian assistance such as food, medical equipment, water purification systems, and other lifesaving goods have been blocked or restricted, directly and indirectly, by state and non-state actors," they said in a letter, dated Monday and seen by Reuters, referring to Section 620I of the Foreign Assistance Act and the Leahy Laws.

The Leahy Laws prohibit the supply of U.S. assistance to any foreign security force unit implicated in gross violations of human rights, including torture and extrajudicial killing. Section 620I bars assistance for countries that impede delivery of humanitarian aid.

Much recent concern has focused on Gaza. The United Nations and Palestinian representatives at the International Court of Justice have accused Israel of breaking international law by refusing to let aid into Gaza, after Israel began on March 2 to cut off all supplies to the 2.3 million residents of the Palestinian enclave. Israel has defended its blockade against aid entering Gaza, alleging that Hamas steals supplies intended for the civilian population and distributes them to its own forces, an allegation that Hamas denies.

Activists have long argued that the United States disregards its own laws in sending military and other assistance abroad.

Concern about civilians in Gaza has risen since Republican President Donald Trump, who is a staunch supporter of Israel, began his second term on January 20.

Aid workers also have accused Sudanese paramilitaries of constraining aid deliveries in territories where it is seeking to cement its control.

Rights groups sounded alarms on Monday when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's cabinet approved plans for an expanded offensive against the Palestinian militant group Hamas that might include seizing the entire Gaza Strip and controlling aid.

The war in Gaza followed Hamas' October 7, 2023, attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli tallies, and saw 251 taken hostage.

Israel's ground and air campaign in Gaza has since killed more than 52,000 Palestinians, most of them civilians according to local health authorities, and left much of Gaza in ruins.

(Reporting by Patricia Zengerle in Washington; Editing by Don Durfee and Matthew Lewis)
Pakistan has vowed to retaliate after India launched missiles at it early Wednesday, as tensions escalated dramatically between the nuclear-armed neighbors.

India said the deadly strikes had targeted terrorist camps and were in response to the massacre last month of 26 people, most of them Indian tourists, in Indian-administered Kashmir.

New Delhi has long accused Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism and blamed Islamabad for the Kashmir attack, the latest in a long history of conflict between the two countries.

Heres a look at that history:

1947-48

With the end of British colonial rule in 1947, the Indian subcontinent was divided into what became Hindu-majority India and Muslim-majority Pakistan. A territory then called East Pakistan is now known as Bangladesh.

Over a million people are estimated to have died in the explosion of communal violence that accompanied the dismemberment of the British Raj, as huge numbers of Hindus fled their homes in Pakistan to cross to India, and Muslims in India did the same to Pakistan.

Muslim refugees crowd on top of a train leaving New Delhi for Pakistan in 1947. (AP file)

The mountainous state of Jammu and Kashmir, which at the time was still a kingdom, soon became a flashpoint. Pakistan backed an insurgency there, leading to the first war with India.

Kashmirs Maharaja Hari Singh sought help from the Indian military in exchange for ceding territory, and in January 1949 the war ended in a ceasefire after U.N. intervention. Details of the agreement, under which the two new and unstable countries controlled parts of Kashmir, have been disputed ever since.

1965

Pakistan, still hoping to gain control of the mountainous region, launched an incursion across the ceasefire line. India responded by sending ground troops into the Pakistan-controlled areas.

A group of Pathan soldiers of Pakistan raise their rifles as they assemble before moving up to the fighting front. (Bettman Archive / Getty Images)

The fighting spread beyond Kashmir, with large mobilizations of aerial and ground forces and some of the largest tank battles in history. This conflict was ultimately settled with another U.N.-brokered ceasefire.

1971

Voters in what was then known as East Pakistan sought autonomy from West Pakistan, and fighting broke out in 1971. The nation of Bangladesh was born after a nine-month war.

The conflict triggered another wave of displacements, with millions leaving formerly East Pakistan for India. New Delhi used the conflict to back guerrilla forces fighting the Pakistani army. Indias involvement opened a new front with Pakistan, which launched aerial attacks in late 1971. The Pakistani army ultimately surrendered in Dhaka, which became the capital of Bangladesh.

As part of agreements following the war, the existing ceasefire line between India and Pakistan in Kashmir was ratified in 1972. The "Line of Control" remains the de facto border between the two countries.

In 1974, India became a nuclear power.

1989

A yearslong armed resistance broke out in Indian-administered Kashmir amid resentment over Indian rule.

1999

As the Soviet Union pulled out of Afghanistan after a decadelong occupation, Islamic jihadist fighters began infiltrating across the Line of Control into Kashmir.

Meanwhile, Pakistan, which became a nuclear power in 1998, backed the anti-Indian uprising in Kashmir and its troops entered the region. India and Pakistan then engaged in a high-altitude war in and around the city of Kargil. Both sides suffered hundreds of casualties, and thousands of people fled their homes.

Indian soldiers fire at enemy positions from the Drass sector of Indian-controlled Kashmir in 1999. (Mustafa Tauseef / AFP via Getty Images)

Fighting ended in July 1999 with India reclaiming Kargil. Later that year, Gen. Pervez Musharraf led a military coup in Pakistan, a pivotal moment that shapes Pakistani politics to this day.

2000s

In 2001, a suicide-bombing on Kashmir's Assembly killed 38 people in Srinagar, the main city in the Indian-administered region. This was followed by an attack on the Indian Parliament in New Delhi that killed 14 people. A year later, 36 people were killed when militants hurled grenades at an army station in Kashmir and opened fire on passengers aboard a bus.

More attacks continued throughout the decade as did regular firing between Indian and Pakistani forces across the Line of Control, which continued to rock Kashmir along with separatist insurgencies.

Security guards outside a terrorist attack in New Delhi in 2001. (Bandeep Singh / The India Today Group via Getty )

In 2008, a four-day terror attack in the Indian commercial capital of Mumbai killed 166 people. Militants from the Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba armed with rifles and, according to India, supported by Pakistans spy agency, took hostages at three locations, including luxury hotels.

2016 and 2019

Border skirmishes along the Line of Control had become common, and in 2016 militants from the Jaish-e-Mohammed group attacked an Indian army brigade headquarters near the town of Uri in Kashmir, killing 19 soldiers.

Led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a Hindu nationalist, India responded by conducting surgical strikes against what it said were launchpads of Islamist militant groups in Pakistan. Pakistan said there was no Indian incursion and it did not respond to the attack. Then in 2019, another militant affiliated with the same group rammed a car bomb into a convoy of Indian security forces in Pulwama in Kashmir, killing 40 personnel.

The aftermath of a bombing in Pulwama in 2019. (Waseem Andrabi / Hindustan Times via Getty Images)

New Delhi launched aerial strikes, and Pakistan responded by striking Indian-administered Kashmir. A dogfight ensued, which led to the capture of an Indian pilot. The situation was defused after the pilot was released a few days later.

The same year, Modis government revoked Kashmirs special autonomous status and cracked down on dissent, arresting hundreds and imposing a six-month communications blackout. Modi said the move was necessary to end decades of separatist violence that had resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of people, and that it would allow Kashmirs economy, including tourism, to flourish.

When elections were held last year, his government hailed them as proof of stability in the region. That narrative was shattered by last months attack on the Indian tourists, which prompted mass cancellations by people planning to visit.
CAIRO (Reuters) -Oman said it mediated a ceasefire deal between Yemen's Houthis and the U.S., marking a major shift in the Iran-aligned group's policy since the start of Israel's war in Gaza in October 2023.

Neither side will target the other, including U.S. vessels in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait, Oman said in its statement.

The statement made no mention of the Houthi attacks on Israel.

Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. will stop bombing the Houthis, saying the group had agreed to stop interrupting important shipping lanes in the Middle East.

The Yemeni group started attacking shipping lanes after the war in Gaza started saying it is in support of Palestinians.

In March, Trump launched Washington's biggest military operation under his administration against the Houthis during which hundreds of Yemenis were killed.

(Reporting by Jaidaa Taha and Menna Alaa El Din, Editing By William Maclean and David Gregorio)
President Donald Trump made a surprise announcement on Tuesday that the United States would stop bombing the Houthis in Yemen, insisting that the rebel group had agreed to stop attacking U.S. ships in the Red Sea.

"They've announced to us at least that they don't want to fight anymore," Trump said during an Oval Office photo-op with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. "They just don't want to fight, and we will honor that."

"And, they have capitulated," he added. "But more importantly, they -- we will take their word. They say they will not be blowing up ships anymore."

PHOTO: This image taken from video provided by the U.S. Navy shows an aircraft launching from the USS Harry S. Truman in the Red Sea before airstrikes in Sanaa, Yemen, on March 15, 2025. (AP)

MORE: Israel PM says Houthis threaten the 'whole world' after strike near Tel Aviv airport

The move caps off weeks of costly attacks and threats delivered by the Trump administration, which led to a major shakeup of the president's national security team.

A spokesman for the Foreign Ministry of Oman confirmed the announcement in an X post on Tuesday.

"Following recent discussions and contacts conducted by the Sultanate of Oman with the United States and the relevant authorities in Sana'a, in the Republic of Yemen, with the aim of de-escalation, efforts have resulted in a ceasefire agreement between the two sides," the Foreign Ministry of Oman said in the statement.

"In the future, neither side will target the other, including American vessels, in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait, ensuring freedom of navigation and the smooth flow of international commercial shipping," it added.

However, Mohammed Ali al Houthi, a member of the Houthi Supreme Political Council, said the Houthis are not immediately agreeing to the U.S.-proposed ceasefire.

The Houthis will "evaluate" the U.S. ceasefire proposal "on the ground first," he posted on X Tuesday afternoon.

When asked by ABC News for more details on the announcement, U.S. Central Command deferred to the White House.

Trump was pressed by reporters for more details about how the deal with the Houthis came together, but he quickly said the announcement isn't a deal.

PHOTO: President Donald Trump speaks as he meets with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, May 6, 2025. (Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images)

MORE: US fighter jet rolls off aircraft carrier, sinks into ocean, Navy says

"They've said, 'Please don't bomb us anymore, and we're not going to attack your ships,'" he said.

When asked who told the U.S. that the Houthi attacks on U.S. ships would stop, Trump demurred, saying it "doesn't matter" and then adding that it was from a "very, very good source."

Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President J.D. Vance laughed and said they agreed with him.

"They don't want to be bombed anymore," Trump repeated.

Rubio added that "this was always a freedom of navigation mission."

"These guys, these are, you know, a band of individuals with advanced weaponry that were threatening global shipping," he said. "And the job was to get that to stop."

The U.S. began airstrikes in Yemen against Houthi targets starting March 15 and has conducted over 800 strikes, according to the U.S. military.

On April 18, an American strike on the Ras Isa fuel port killed at least 74 people and wounded 171 others in the deadliest known attack of the American campaign.

However, the U.S. military has taken some hits as well.

The U.S. military has lost seven Reaper drones since March 15, each drone costing $30 million, and an F/A-18E fighter jet rolled off the side of the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier and sank to the bottom of the Red Sea two weeks ago. No one was killed in that incident.

The USS Harry S. Truman possibly made a sudden movement due to Houthi fire, ultimately causing the fighter jet to roll off it, according to a U.S. official, who cited initial field reports. The incident is still under investigation, but the aircraft carrier has previously been targeted by the Houthis.

PHOTO: In this March 16, 2025, file photo, Yemeni people sweep shattered glass from their houses and shops following the United States aerial attacks launched over the Houthi-held capital Sana'a and other provinces, in Sana'a, Yemen. (Mohammed Hamoud/Getty Images, FILE)

Israeli forces have also conducted strikes on Yemen for the past two days, striking its main port on the Red Sea, two cement factories and the Sanaa airport.

The Israeli government said these strikes were in response to Houthi strikes on Israel on Sunday, and the Israel Defense Forces said it targeted Houthi infrastructure in Yemen in the strikes.

While Trump claimed the U.S. mission against the Houthis has been a "freedom of navigation" mission from the beginning, the conflict in the Red Sea between the Houthis and U.S.- and British-flagged vessels has been occurring since Oct. 8, 2023.

The Houthis said they would attack vessels connected to Israel's allies in support of the Palestinian people in Gaza after Israel launched a military operation against Gaza following the Hamas terrorist attack on Oct. 7, 2023.

Since then, the Houthis have been targeting vessels they say are connected to Israel's allies in the Red Sea to various degrees of severity over the past 19 months. The U.S. ratcheted up the conflict three days before Israel ended the temporary ceasefire with Hamas, resuming military operations in Gaza on March 18. The U.S. launched its first strike against the Houthis on March 5.

MORE: Trump replacing Waltz as national security adviser, Rubio takes role for now

The Trump administration has spent weeks trying to save face over its own planning of attacks in Yemen after it was revealed that top national security members, including then-national security adviser Mike Waltz and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, communicated plans about the impending attacks on Signal.

The Atlantic Editor-in-Chief Jeffrey Goldberg was accidentally invited to one of the Signal group chats and saw details about the planning.

Last week, Trump announced Waltz would be leaving his Cabinet position and would be nominated as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations.

Trump announces US to stop bombing Yemen, says Houthis won't attack more American ships originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
(Reuters) - President Volodymyr Zelenskiy asked his government on Tuesday to seek help from Ukraine's Western allies to develop interceptor drones he said were vital to protecting the country from air attacks in the more than three-year-old war with Russia.

Speaking in his nightly video address, Zelenskiy said a meeting of Ukraine's top military command had discussed the use of technology to develop drones capable of downing other drones - mainly Russia's Iranian-designed Shahed attack drones.

"This is one of the most advanced technologies of modern warfare. Today, I instructed the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to work more actively with partners to finance the production of these interceptors," he said.

"We will develop this direction as much as possible and each region will have its own responsibility specifically for this task."

Zelenskiy has repeatedly pleaded with Ukraine's Western allies to provide greater numbers of sophisticated air defence systems to protect the country's cities from air attack.

From early in the conflict, he has stressed the need for developing drones as a means of modern warfare.

Last October, the president told arms manufacturers that Ukraine was able to produce 4 million drones annually and was quickly ramping up its production of other weapons.

Ukraine produced virtually no drones before Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022.

(Reporting by Ron Popeski and Oleksandr Kozhukhar; Editing by Rod Nickel)
By Daniel Wiessner

(Reuters) - A federal judge on Tuesday blocked President Donald Trump's administration from firing workers and taking other steps to shut down federal agencies that fund museums and libraries, mediate labor disputes and support minority-owned businesses.

U.S. District Judge John McConnell in Providence, Rhode Island, agreed with 21 mostly Democrat-led states that Trump's March executive order directing that the agencies effectively be wiped out violated the U.S. Constitution.

"This executive order ... ignores the unshakable principles that Congress makes the law and appropriates funds, and the Executive implements the law Congress enacted and spends the funds Congress appropriated," wrote McConnell, an appointee of Democratic former President Barack Obama.

The judge halted Trump's order from being implemented at the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, the Minority Business Development Agency, and the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service pending the outcome of the case.

McConnell did not order the agencies to take any specific steps. The judge told the states to consult with the Trump administration and submit a more detailed order for his approval.

Trump in his order directed that those agencies and four others be reduced "to the minimum presence and function required by law. A judge in Washington, D.C. last week had separately blocked the museum and library agency from being shut down.

White House spokesman Davis Ingle said McConnell had defied U.S. Supreme Court precedent by blocking Trump from closing elements of the federal bureaucracy.

"The lower courts outrageous order will not be the last say on the matter," Ingle said in a statement.

Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha, a Democrat whose office is leading the lawsuit, called the decision a critical win for the public.

When the Trump Administration attempts to dismantle these agencies, it is making a targeted, concerted effort to prohibit everyday people from accessing their full potential," Neronha said in a statement.

Trump's executive order was part of his broader effort to dramatically shrink the federal government and slash government spending. Tens of thousands of federal workers have been fired, placed on leave indefinitely or accepted buyouts to leave their jobs.

At the three agencies involved in Tuesday's case, virtually all employees were placed on administrative leave shortly after Trump issued his executive order, according to court filings.

The states in their lawsuit filed in April say that because Congress created the agencies and set their funding levels, Trump had no power to order that their work be halted.

McConnell on Tuesday agreed. Federal law includes a mechanism for the president to return unneeded funding to Congress, the judge said, but Trump failed to follow that process.

State libraries and museums have abandoned programs and implemented hiring freezes, business development offices are curbing training and other support programs, and state agencies have fewer options to mediate disputes with unions, McConnell said.

(Reporting by Daniel Wiessner in Albany, New York; Editing by Aurora Ellis)
By Patricia Zengerle

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Republican chairman of the U.S. Senate intelligence committee called on Wednesday for American spy agencies to "pause" intelligence sharing with Germany's domestic intelligence agency that could be used to target the far right Alternative for Germany party (AfD).

"I understand that liberal elites on both sides of the Atlantic loathe the AfD, but AfD's platform has resonated with many Germans," Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas wrote in a letter to Tulsi Gabbard, President Donald Trump's director of National Intelligence.

Germany's domestic intelligence service classified the AfD on May 2 as an "extremist" group, enabling it to step up monitoring of the country's biggest opposition party. The AfD declared the move a "blow against democracy" and has filed suit.

Cotton's letter follows a series of expressions of support for the AfD from members of Trump's circle. In it he asked that, until Germany's government "treats the AfD as a legitimate opposition party," Gabbard pause sharing of intelligence that could be used to target the party and refuse requests of assistance from German intelligence that could be used to surveil the AfD.

Cotton also asked for a review of whether U.S. intelligence under former President Joe Biden, a Democrat, cooperated with German requests to surveil the AfD or other opposition parties, and notify the Senate of the findings of that review.

Gabbard's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The German embassy in Washington also did not immediately respond. The new German chancellor, Friedrich Merz, a conservative, has warned the U.S. to stay out of his country's politics.

Members of Trump's inner circle have voiced support for the AfD. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is now also Trump's national security adviser, said Germany should reverse course on branding the AfD as "extremist."

Vice President JD Vance attacked German bureaucrats for "trying to destroy" the AfD. And close Trump ally billionaire Elon Musk threw his support behind the AfD before Germany's elections and warned against banning it.

(Reporting by Patricia Zengerle; Editing by Alexandra Hudson)
By Sudarshan Varadhan

SINGAPORE (Reuters) -Solar panel makers in Laos and Indonesia, mostly owned by Chinese firms, boosted their share in the U.S. market after steep tariffs hit exports from other Southeast Asian countries including Cambodia and Thailand, trade data showed.

The U.S. government finalised steep levies on imports of solar cells and modules from Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia in April, following two rounds of tariffs in June and November last year, to prevent dumping by mostly Chinese-owned factories in these countries.

However, Chinese companies have moved their production to Indonesia and Laos and boosted exports to the United States, Reuters reporting showed.

The combined share for Indonesia and Laos in the U.S. solar modules market rose to 29% in the three months after the second round of U.S. duties were imposed on neighbouring producers in late November, from less than 1% in 2023, a Reuters review of U.S. trade data showed.

Analysts and industry experts say the southeast Asian capacities owned by Chinese companies were almost exclusively set up to sidestep tariffs and supply the U.S. markets at premiums to global prices, exposing the limits of Washington's trade interventions.

Yana Hryshko, head of global solar supply chain research at consultancy Wood Mackenzie, said all solar manufacturing capacity in the four Southeast Asian countries hit with high tariffs would now likely "be shut down or reduced dramatically".

CHANGING TRADE ROUTES

Solar panel exports from Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia to the U.S. fell by 33% on an annual basis in the nine months since the first round of tariffs in June. In the same period, exports from regional neighbours Indonesia and Laos grew around eight-fold, the trade data showed.

Overall U.S. solar panel imports have fallen 26% since June, with the four countries' combined share of the market plunging

from 82% in the full year 2024 to 54% in the three months following the second round of tariffs in late November.

U.S. imports of solar cells, which can be assembled in the United States to create panels, have tripled since the first round of tariffs despite higher costs of imports from the targeted countries. However, Indonesia and Laos still ate into the market as their exports surged about 17-fold.

Solar cells accounted for roughly 28% of all U.S. solar imports since the first round of tariffs, compared with 6.5% in 2023, the data showed.

Chinese manufacturers are already revising export strategies due to concerns about tariffs on Indonesia and Laos, said Fei Chen, solar research analyst at consultancy Rystad Energy.

"Several solar manufacturers plan to set up production bases in non-Southeast Asia regions such as Turkiye, Oman, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Ethiopia, to supply the U.S. market," she said.

Factories in China, mostly shut out of the U.S. market for over a decade by high import duties, have been boosting solar panel sales to Asia and Africa, data from energy think-tank Ember showed.

Asia accounted for 37% of all Chinese exports in the first quarter of 2025, up from 25.4% in 2024, while Europe's share declined to 34% from 41% in 2024, Ember data showed.

Total Chinese exports have remained steady despite lower demand due to high stockpiles in Europe - its biggest market.

(Reporting by Sudarshan Varadhan; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise)
After multiple delays, the REAL ID enforcement deadline is here.

The Transportation Security Administration is requiring compliant documentation for adults at U.S. airport security checkpoints starting today, May 7. While the scene at multiple airports around the country seems calm, not everyone is ready.

Parker Schulte arrived at MinneapolisSt. Paul International Airport (MSP) around 3 a.m. on Tuesday  earlier than usual and more anxious than hed like to admit.

I wanted to get in early so I could avoid whatever extra checks they need to do for not having REAL ID, said Schulte, 24, who was flying out that morning without the federally compliant identification now required to board domestic flights as of May 7, 2025.

I just procrastinated, he said. I could have. I should have gotten it done. I just didnt.

He's not the only one.

Live updates: 'It doesn't look bad' for REAL ID deadline across the nation

In Denver, Arizona native Justin Conrad, 28, tried unsuccessfully to make a same-day appointment to get a new REAL ID-compliant license at a state licensing office.

Conrad is supposed to attend a memorial service for a college mentor in a few days, and realized he should have an updated license to fly.

What if Im stuck in this state forever? he joked.

Conrad said he works for a Colorado ski resort and didnt make time to get an updated license during the winter. His passport is expired, he said.

Justin Conrad, 28, tries to make an appointment for a new REAL ID-compliant drivers license at a Colorado licensing office on May 7, 2025. Conrad said he needed to fly home to Arizona for a memorial service but discovered no appointments available for weeks.

He said he drove a friend 80 miles in his Subaru from their mountain ski town down to Denver International Airport first thing on May 7 and decided to try getting a license while he was in the city.

Colorado has required appointments to get a drivers license for many years, and staff at the office on May 7 adhered to that policy, telling Conrad there were appointments available in about a month.

Yeah, I guess its not going to happen today for me, Conrad said.

Conrad said he was considering his options: get an on-the-spot passport in Denver, drive to Tucson or throw himself at the mercy of TSA agents for his May 8 flight.

I mean, I have an Arizona license, but it doesnt have that star, he said. Maybe they will let me fly if they see Im going home.

There is an alternative compliance mechanism if you show up at the airport without a REAL ID.

As the REAL ID requirement took effect on May 7, travelers without compliant identification were given these slips of red paper at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

Once we identify somebody that doesn't have a compliant ID, we're going to give them one of these notices," Robert Spinden, TSA Federal Security Director for Georgia, said, holding up a small sheet of red paper.

It read, "The ID you presented is NOT REAL ID-compliant" and included a QR code that linked to a list of acceptable identification.

"Then they may be referred to some special lanes or they may undergo some additional screening on the lane that they're at," Spinden said at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. "It'll be a minor inconvenience, and so I would recommend that passengers plan for some extra time. But they'll still be able to fly. They'll still make their plane.

For Schulte, it was a relatively painless process to get past TSA security without a REAL ID.

It was like an extra five minutes, he said. They just swabbed some of the stuff in my bag. Schulte had also brought extra documents just in case.

But that ease of experience isnt guaranteed.

I would just say kind of make sure you bring, like, stuff for them to verify, Schulte said. From what I understand, its different everywhere. Its just whatever the TSA people at the time feel like theyre doing or whatever the rules are for that particular station.

For now, Schultes best advice to travelers who are cutting it close: Be prepared. You dont know how its gonna gofind out.

What other documents are accepted by TSA?

Yes. According to the Transportation Security Administration, these are the acceptable forms of REAL ID:

State-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)

U.S. passport

U.S. passport card

DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)

U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents

Permanent resident card

Border crossing card

An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)

HSPD-12 PIV card

Foreign government-issued passport

Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card

Transportation worker identification credential

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)

U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential

Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

How do I get a REAL ID?

REAL IDs are issued by states, the District of Columbia and the five major U.S. territories. Travelers will need to show documents with the following in order to get a REAL ID-compliant license or ID, per DHS:

Their full legal name

Birthday

Social security number

Two forms of proof of their address at their principal residence

Lawful status

States may impose additional requirements, so check with your states drivers licensing agency website, before visiting them in person, for additional guidance and assistance, DHS said on its website.

Even after the deadline passes, travelers can use acceptable alternative forms of ID, including passports or a state-issued Enhanced Drivers License (only available in Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington). They will also still need a passport for international travel.

How long does it take to get a REAL ID?

That depends. In Tennessee, for instance, while applicants will receive an interim paper document immediately, the hard copy arrives by mail 10 to 20 days later.

If you need a REAL ID compliant credential for an upcoming trip, please allow enough time before to receive your hard copy in the mail, the states Department of Safety and Homeland Security said on its website. A paper credential may not be accepted by TSA.

Connecticuts Department of Motor Vehicles, meanwhile, advises residents that hard copies will arrive within 20 business days of their appointment.

How much does REAL ID cost?

Fees vary by state or other jurisdiction. In Washington, D.C., applicants must pay $47 for a standard first-time drivers license or renewal, while getting a duplicate of their current drivers license costs $20. The fees for REAL ID credentials are the same as those for our current credentials, the D.C. Department of Motor Vehicles website reads.

Maine, for its part, charges $55 to obtain a new non-commercial license  or to renew one  for residents younger than 65, and $40 for those 65 and up, according to its Department of the Secretary of State. Duplicate licenses or ID cards cost $30. Travelers should check with their local agencies for pricing information.

(This story has been updated with new information.)

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What happens if you dont have a REAL ID at the airport?
Food & Wine / Goldbelly







Key points

Originally popularized by Fix Dessert Chocolatier, a version of the Dubai chocolate bar that went viral on TikTok and Instagram is now available in the United States, thanks to Connecticut-based Knipschildt Chocolatier.

Knipschildts treat weighs a hefty 1.2 pounds and features made-from-scratch pistachio cream, white chocolate ganache, and a custom-blended milk chocolate shell  retailing for $50 on Goldbelly.

The Dubai chocolate bars satisfying crunch, creamy filling, and visual appeal made it a perfect fit for social media virality, helping drive mainstream demand and inspiring U.S. brands to create their own spinoffs.







Its tough to scroll through social media these days without coming across the decadent Dubai chocolate bar  and once, this Middle Eastern treat could only be snagged from Fix Dessert Chocolatier in the City of Gold. Now, chocolate makers in the United States have been rapidly developing this filled chocolate for folks stateside.

A new Dubai chocolate bar has just landed on Goldbelly, featuring a hefty 1.2 pounds of pistachio paste and rich chocolate. Knipschildt Chocolatier, an East Coast brand known for its extravagant takes on chocolate treats, crafted this shareable chocolate bar, which is available in both dark and milk chocolate  offered for $50 on the platform.

This larger-than-life chocolate bar is the brainchild of Denmark-born chocolatier Fritz Knipschildt, who leads operations of his namesake Connecticut-based company. (The brand is available online and in a handful of national outlets, including Anthropologie.)

Related: Pistachio Is the Flavor of 2025  and We Have a Viral TikTok Trend to Thank

Knipschildt tells Food & Wine that this particular bar was developed with a wow factor in mind.

In our Dubai bar, we make our own pistachio cream from scratch, which gets mixed with our white chocolate ganache  made with fresh cream, fresh butter, and premium white chocolate, Knipschildt said. I also blend my own 40% milk chocolate for the shell. It gives it a richer and creamier taste versus an overly sweet milk chocolate.

The beginnings of a viral dessert

The original Dubai Chocolate Bar was created by Fix Dessert Chocolatier in Dubai, a local brand founded by entrepreneur Sarah Hamouda in 2021, according to CNN. Her now-viral Cant Get Knafeh Of It bar  a crunchy delight filled with pistachio cream and kataifi that kicked off the trend  has garnered worldwide demand.

Its not difficult to see why its so irresistible: The desserts trademark filling is enveloped in a thick, crunchy layer of milk chocolate, which food influencers have dramatically broken open on camera. That crunch serves as the ideal visual hook and craveable soundbite for a viral TikTok  its practically in the handbook for a successful social media run. (Consider the gooey texture of 2019s feta pasta trend or the vibrancy of TikTokers beloved pesto eggs.) In the case of Fix Dessert Chocolatier, a handful of viral taste tests led to a fairly sudden increase in business.

We were going from three orders a week to getting hundreds and hundreds of orders per second, Hamouda says in a March video. We were getting messages from all over the world  from Argentina, South Korea, Poland, to Saudi Arabia. We started seeing people recreate the bars at home in different countries. It was an amazing feeling.

Of course, it wouldnt be a global sensation without some imitators eager to join the bandwagon and capitalize on the trend to make a tremendous amount of cash.

As the decadent treat gained momentum among foodies worldwide, online scams and dubious websites emerged. As Fix Chocolatier warns on its Instagram account, you can only order its original Cant Get Knafeh Of It bar locally in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. (So, as the treat first gained popularity in late 2023, you might have seen higher-than-average prices on resale sites.)

Gradually, shoppers began to secure versions of the chocolate bar in outlets across the States. Specialty shops, like New York Citys Nut Factory, started offering its own take on Dubai bars as the hype spread on social media.

National retailers have joined the trend

Craving this chocolate without an international trip planned? Pistachio-flavored chocolate treats have gradually trickled into the mainstream this year, highlighted by several high-profile launches from U.S. brands.

Warehouse retailer Costco recently debuted frozen ice cream bars covered in a crunchy topping, while Shake Shack released its own custard-filled spinoff at several coastal locations earlier this spring.

You might also spot this flavor combo in Aldis freezer aisle if youre shopping in the UK. (Meanwhile, were crossing our fingers that the budget retailer will receive shipments across the pond.) Other supermarkets, like Hy-Vee, have listed packaged chocolate bars for as much as $20 a pop. Considering Knipschildts heavyweight version retails for nearly $50, buying in bulk might save you cash.

Will the Dubai Chocolate Bar be a passing fad  a la the Millennial-coded cronut craze of the 2010s  or will it become a mainstay of little treat culture? Only time will tell.

Read the original article on Food & Wine
Courtesy of The Dalmore







Key points

The Dalmores Luminary Series No. 3 includes two Calvados-finished whiskies: a hyper-rare 52-year-old expression called The Rare (only two bottles exist) and a more accessible 17-year-old edition called The Collectible, both marking the distillerys first use of Calvados casks.

The Rare is paired with a custom sculpture by Scottish architect Ben Dobbin, inspired by tensegrity design and unveiled at the Venice Biennale before auction at Sothebys, with proceeds supporting the V&A Dundee museum.

This release reflects years of experimentation and creative collaboration, made possible only after a 2019 regulation change allowed Calvados cask finishing in Scotch whisky.







The third installment in the ongoing Luminary Series of Scotch whiskies by The Dalmore is essentially a tale of two whiskies. One, a 52-year-old single malt, ranks among the rarest released by the distillery, which was established in 1839. The other, a 17-year-old, will be easier to find and undoubtedly far less expensive. However, both expressions are making history as the first Dalmore whiskies finished in Calvados casks to ever be made available.

If youve ever wondered why there arent more Scotch whiskies finished in Calvados casks, the answer is simple and perhaps surprising: its only been legal since 2019. Thats when the Scotch Whisky Association loosened its restrictions on barrel-finishing and permitted casks that had formerly held the French apple brandy to be used. The Dalmore, the famed Highland distillery that has been in operation since 1839, had been experimenting with Calvados-finished whiskies before the rule change, but the Luminary Series No. 3  2025 Edition is the first time the public will get to taste them.

The first bottling, known as The Rare, lives up to its name, with only two bottles produced. One will reside permanently in The Dalmore archives, while the other will be unveiled at the Venice Biennale of Architecture prior to its auction at Sothebys, with the proceeds going to support V&A Dundee, Scotlands design museum.

Courtesy of The Dalmore Aged in a mix of Calvados, Sherry, red wine, and American oak casks, The Collectible is a complex but approachable bottle. It was developed alongside The Rare to complement its flavors and expand the Calvados experiment.

Architect Ben Dobbin, who, with the Foster + Partners architecture firm, helped design Apple Park in California, created a bespoke sculpture to hold the specially designed decanter. In a word, the sculpture can be described as an example of tensegrity, an architectural term defining a design that uses elements of compression and tension. With the sculpture you see bronze rods draw in to and lean out from a wooden pedestal, which is where the Dalmore decanter is placed  as if suspended in space, Glass observes. Its fantastic because you cannot quite see how it is achieved.

Dobbins work with The Dalmore extended to the whisky itself as well, involving a three-way collaboration with Paterson and Glass. Ben had already started his whisky journey prior to the project, Glass says.

Related: This Tequila Outscored Every Other Bottle at the 2025 London Spirits Competition

What was brilliant actually was not only the immersion we had with Ben Dobbin at The Dalmore distillery, but the total immersion he undertook with the place, Glass added. Scotland, the rolling Highlands, the Forth Road Rail Bridge, all played their influence in what we created together. In some ways you can take for granted the beauty of where we make our whisky  and Ben came with a fresh perspective.



In addition to 1980 vintage Calvados casks, the 52-year-old whisky has been matured in a variety of rare old casks that previously held several different spirits, including 1940 Colheita Port, rare Tawny Port, 40-year-old Pedro Ximenez Sherry, and Chateauneuf-du-Pape wine. The other side of the Luminary Series coin, known as The Collectible, is a more accessible version of The Rare, with 20,000 bottles available globally.

Courtesy of The Dalmore Architect Ben Dobbin, known for his work on Apple Park, helped design both the whisky and the display sculpture. The collaboration extended beyond packaging, influencing the whiskys flavor direction as well.

The casks used to mature The Collectible arent as rare or as old as those used for The Rare; however, they do include casks that formerly contained vintage and aged Calvados, Matusalem and Apostoles sherry, red wine casks from Bordeaux and Chateauneuf-du-Pape, and fully matured American white oak. The Collectible is aged for a total of 17 years.

Related: This Bourbon Beat Every Other Whiskey at the 2025 London Spirits Competition

The flavor profile of The Collectible was intended to complement that of The Rare, while also being more accessible to whisky lovers in terms of availability and pricing. Every release of The Dalmore is an expression of our fantastic house style, says Glass. Whats great with each edition of the Luminary Series is we can explore that style twice. For Edition No. 3 we had lengthy conversations not only about pear tatin, green tea, and red apples, but of the exact type of taste profile for each of those that Ben had envisioned. Whats fantastic is that Ben really understands taste, and wanted to learn how Richard and I create an experience of taste through our whisky.







Fast Facts: The Dalmore Luminary Series No. 3

ABV: The Rare is bottled at a cask strength of 40.3% ABV, while The Collectible weighs in at 49.2% ABV

Maturation: Both The Rare and The Collectible were initially aged in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels. The Rare then went on to mature in casks that previously held vintage 1980 Calvados, 1940 Colheita Port, rare Tawny Port, 40-year-old Pedro Ximenez sherry, and Chateauneuf-du-Pape wine. The Collectible was matured in casks that formerly contained vintage and aged Calvados, rare Matusalem sherry, rare Apostoles sherry, red wine from Bordeaux and Chateauneuf-du-Pape, and fully matured American white oak. Both expressions are the first Dalmore releases to have been Calvados cask-matured.

Availability: One bottle of The Rare, with accompanying sculpture by Ben Dobbin, will be auctioned by Sothebys; The Collectible is limited to 20,000 bottles globally.

MSRP: The Collectible is priced at $399.99; the price of The Rare will be up to the winning bidder.







Glass is pleased with how the Calvados cask maturation turned out. One of the joys of the project was to have opportunity to experiment with the flavor characteristics of casks that are uncommon in the industry. Not only did we explore Calvados, but we had two vintage casks, and a younger parcel which offered different flavor nuances for the recipe. The key question became, not about what my expectation was as a whisky maker, but on whether it had the potential to deliver the right type of apple note, and taste experience Ben, Richard and I were looking for.

It will undoubtedly be tempting for the winner of the sole bottle of The Rare to keep it pristine and unopened. But Glass says he created both expressions of the Luminary Series No. 3 to be consumed and enjoyed: One of the biggest joys for me is the moment of enjoyment, whether it be one or 1,000-plus bottles for me, a whisky is only complete when it is enjoyed by our fans.

Read the original article on Food & Wine
The temporary chimney atop the Sistine Chapel released a plume of white smoke on Thursday, signaling that the 133 cardinals working inside had reached a two-thirds majority to elect a new pope for the Catholic Church.

American cardinal Robert Prevost was announced as the choice to replace Pope Francis.

Bells at St. Peter's Basilica rang and crowds cheered as the white smoke billowed from the chimney.

The new leader of the Catholic Church was chosen amid the third round of conclave voting.





Latest Developments





May 8, 2:53 PM

Trump touts 'great honor' of having American pope, claims having contact with Vatican

President Donald Trump made a surprise appearance outside the White House Thursday afternoon and was asked for his reaction to the first American being selected as pope.



"Its such a great honor for our country to have an American pope, and what greater honor could there be?" he said. "We're a little bit surprised but very happy."

PHOTO: President Donald Trump looks on as he gives remarks outside the West Wing at the White House in Washington, D.C., May 8, 2025. (Kent Nishimura/Reuters)

Trump added that he plans to meet with Pope Leo XIV, saying, "They have already spoken to us. We'll see what happens."



"But again, to have the pope from the United States of America -- that's a great honor," he said.





May 8, 2:39 PM

Zelenskyy, Putin congratulate Pope Leo

Amid the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wrote on social media, "Congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV @Pontifex on his election to the See of Saint Peter and the beginning of his pontificate."



"Ukraine deeply values the Holy Sees consistent position in upholding international law, condemning the Russian Federations military aggression against Ukraine, and protecting the rights of innocent civilians," Zelenskyy said. "At this decisive moment for our country, we hope for the continued moral and spiritual support of the Vatican in Ukraines efforts to restore justice and achieve a lasting peace. I wish His Holiness Leo XIV wisdom, inspiration, and strength -- both spiritual and physical -- in carrying out his noble mission."



Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin said in a message to Pope Leo, "Please accept my heartfelt congratulations on your election as Pope. I am confident that the constructive dialog and interaction established between Russia and the Vatican will continue to develop on the basis of the Christian values that unite us. I wish you, Your Holiness, success in fulfilling the high mission entrusted to you, as well as good health and well-being."





May 8, 2:39 PM

Israeli president congratulates Pope Leo

Israeli President Isaac Herzog congratulated the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, saying he sends the new Pope his warmest wishes from the Holy City of Jerusalem, in a post on X.



We look forward to enhancing the relationship between Israel and the Holy See, and strengthening the friendship between Jews and Christians in the Holy Land and around the world, Herzog said.



Herzog added: May your papacy be one of building bridges and understanding between all faiths and peoples. May we see the immediate and safe return of the hostages in Gaza, and a new era of peace in our region and around the world.



-ABC News Jordana Miller





May 8, 2:25 PM

What to know about the 1st American pope

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has become the first-ever American elected as the leader of the Catholic Church -- now known by his pontifical name of Pope Leo XIV.



The 69-year-old, born on the Southside of Chicago, is seen as a diplomat of the church and was an important adviser to his predecessor, Pope Francis.



He became a front-runner to the papacy in the days before the conclave began, said Rev. James Martin, a papal contributor to ABC News.



Leo emerged from the balcony of St. Peters Basilica on Thursday evening to throngs of cheering crowds, following the signal of white smoke that emanated from the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel.

PHOTO: Newly elected Pope Leo XIV, Robert Prevost addressing the crowd from the main central loggia balcony of the St Peter's Basilica for the first time, after the cardinals ended the conclave, in The Vatican. May 8, 2025. (Vatican Media/AFP via Getty Images)

Leo is the fifth-most-popular name chosen by popes. Pope Leo XIV's full authority and jurisdiction begins immediately upon his acceptance of the office.



Read here for more about Pope Leo XIV.





May 8, 2:05 PM

Pope Leo XIV is a very down-to-earth person

The Rev. James Martin, a papal contributor to ABC, said he knows Pope Leo XIV, previously Cardinal Robert Prevost, describing him as very-down-to-earth.

PHOTO: Newly elected Pope Leo XIV, Robert Francis Prevost gestures on the main central loggia balcony of the St Peter's Basilica, after the cardinals ended the conclave, in The Vatican, May 8, 2025. (Andrej Isakovic/AFP via Getty Images)

Martin told ABC News the new pontiff is a very kind person, very reserved.



Martin previously said days before the conclaves start that the American cardinal was a front-runner for the papacy.





May 8, 1:54 PM

Pope Leo XIV addresses crowd for first time as pontiff

Pope Leo XIV, American-born Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, has addressed thousands of people gathered in Vatican Square for the first time as pontiff.



Leo took a moment to take in the crowd after stepping onto the center balcony of St. Peters Basilica, before delivering his remarks.



"Greetings, brothers and sisters. This is the first greeting of the risen Christ. May the peace be with you," Leo said in Italian. "This is the peace of the risen Christ."



Leo asked the crowd to pray for the late Pope Francis and expressed gratitude to his predecessor -- encouraging followers to continue Francis' mission "for building bridges."



"We have to be a church that works together to build bridges and to keep our arms open, like this very piazza, welcoming," Leo told the crowd.

PHOTO: Newly elected Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Robert Prevost of the United States appears on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, at the Vatican, May 8, 2025. (Yara Nardi/Reuters)

The new pope also thanked the cardinals who elected him as Francis successor before reciting the "Hail Mary" prayer.



White smoke emerged fro the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel Thursday evening, signifying that the new pope had been elected.



Read more about what happens after the new pope is elected here.





May 8, 1:34 PM

Trump congratulates Pope Leo XIV

President Donald Trump congratulated the new pope in a Truth Social post.



"It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!" he said.



-ABC News' Kelsey Walsh





May 8, 1:32 PM

Cardinal Prevost announces papal name as Leo XIV

Cardinal Robert Prevost selected the name Leo XIV, a senior cardinal deacon announced.



John, the most popular name selected among cardinals, has been used 23 times. Gregory has been used 16 times, and Benedict has been chosen 16 times.



The only name that is not allowed to be used is Peter, which is an unwritten rule in the Catholic Church, paying respect to the first pope, Saint Peter.





May 8, 1:57 PM

Robert Prevost steps out onto Vatican balcony

American cardinal Robert Prevost stands on the balcony on the facade of St. Peter's Basilica as the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church.

PHOTO: Newly elected Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Robert F. Prevost of the U.S., appears on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican, May 8, 2025. (Dylan Martinez/Reuters)





May 8, 1:55 PM

Habemus papam or We have a pope declared

A senior cardinal deacon, who stands on the balcony on the facade of St. Peter's Basilica, overlooking St. Peter's Square and declared in Latin: "Nuntio vobis gaudium magnum: habemus papam"  "I announce to you a great joy: We have a pope."

PHOTO: Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti announces a new pope has been elected by the conclave at the Vatican, May 8, 2025. (Yara Nardi/Reuters)

Click here to read the rest of the blog.
FILE - Jenniffer Gonzalez speaks after she was sworn in as governor outside the Capitol in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Jan. 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Alejandro Granadillo, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP)  Puerto Ricos governor came under fire Tuesday as her pledge to support the investment of millions of federal dollars in solar projects across the U.S. territory appeared to fade.

More than a week has passed since the U.S. Department of Energy missed a deadline to finalize contracts worth $365 million that would see battery-operated solar systems installed at health clinics and public housing units in Puerto Rico.

Since last month, the department has not been in communication with those awarded the grants, including the nonprofit Hispanic Federation.

Theres been deathly silence, said Javier Rua Jovet, public policy director for Puerto Ricos Solar and Energy Storage Association.

The lack of communication by the federal government comes as Puerto Rico prepares for the Atlantic hurricane season, which starts June 1 and is predicted to be above average, with nine anticipated hurricanes, four of them major.

Puerto Rico already struggles with chronic power outages, including two island-wide blackouts that occurred on Dec. 31 and April 17.

There are people who really need this help immediately, said Frankie Miranda, president and CEO of the Hispanic Federation.

Until recently, Gov. Jenniffer Gonzalez, a Republican and supporter of U.S. President Donald Trump, had backed more than $1 billion appropriated by Congress for solar projects in Puerto Rico, including the $365 million slated for public housing units and health centers, including those that provide dialysis.

But the governors public affairs secretary, Hiram Torres Montalvo, told Radio Isla on Monday that the governor tried to defend the funds but ultimately withdrew her support for the grant. He said that Gonzalez has proposed using the funds to improve the generation, transmission and distribution of power, and is focused on ensuring theres enough electricity for the summer months.

We are extremely surprised and shocked over this development, Miranda said in a phone interview. We want the governor to reconsider her position and continue to fulfill her word.

Miranda and others have noted that some $18 billion in federal funds is already slated for the grid.

Neither Torres nor a spokeswoman for the governor returned messages seeking comment.

On Tuesday, the U.S. Department of Energy sent The Associated Press a statement saying that the agency was conducting a department-wide review of grant processes, and that it was working with Puerto Ricos governor and the White House to strengthen the islands grid and ensure that the island has reliable, affordable and secure energy.

In the wake of recent outages that impacted families, businesses, and critical infrastructure, the Department of Energy remains focused on advancing solutions that provide urgent relief, prevent future disasters, and restore long-term reliable energy access across the island, the agency said.

The department did not say whether Puerto Ricos government has formally requested that the funds be reassigned.

More than 60% of energy on the island is generated by petroleum-fired power plants, 24% by natural gas, 8% by coal and 7% by renewables, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

The push for more renewable energy comes as crews continue to rebuild Puerto Ricos power grid after Hurricane Maria hit the island in September 2017 as a powerful Category 4 storm. But the grid was already weak before the storm hit given a lack of maintenance and investment for decades.
Our beauty director recommends six products to protect your hair from sun damage - iStockphoto

I have spoken to enough dermatologists in my time to know that the golden rule of good skincare is protecting your skin from UV rays year-round, not just over the summer months and on holiday. Sun cream helps to safeguard against potential cancers, as well as future-proof the complexion where lines, wrinkles and pigmentation are concerned. While Im committed to using SPF50 every single day  even in my hand creams  the one thing I dont usually protect from the sun is my hair.

But a recent conversation with my colourist made me rethink my summer haircare routine. I see Anita Rice from the Buller and Rice salon, which has three branches in London, every four months or so for gentle highlights; my appointment was the day before I flew to Greece for a week. You need to take some sunscreen for your hair, she insisted, handing me a travel-sized bottle of SU Milk by the Italian haircare brand Davines.

SU Milk Hair

SU Milk, 11.50, Davines

If your hair has been colour-treated, any sun exposure will continue the lifting of the hair-colour process, she explained. If you think of young kids with untreated hair, it often goes lighter in the summer  thats because the sun lifts and lightens pigment. In colour-treated hair, the sun can make it look brassier  whether youre a blonde, a redhead or a brunette. Brassier highlights? No, thank you.

I dutifully packed the SU Milk in my suitcase and, while the weather wasnt blindingly hot on my trip, it was indeed very sunny. Super-easy to use, you just spritz the product into wet or dry hair in the morning and then brush through. Did it protect my highlights? Yes, as promised, it did the trick, but it also added in lots of hydration and made my hair feel very soft. (It smells divine, too.) Of course its not just for holidays; Im planning to use it most mornings.

Just as you would use an after-sun for the skin in hot weather, Anita also suggested an after-sun for the hair. The hair is a natural fibre, so any exposure to salt water and strong sun rays will dry it out, she told me. A thick-ish hydrating mask or hair cream can really help to revive dry hair, ideally used a couple of times a week. I rate the famous Elasticizer Deep-Conditioning Treatment by Philip Kingsley; it contains hydrolysed elastin, which adds strength and elasticity back into the hair.

Dont neglect your scalp, either. Anita told me she often notices tan marks in her clients partings when they return from some time in the sun, as the parting often has the strongest sun exposure. The consultant trichologist Anabel Kingsley, president of the Philip Kingsley brand, agrees. Our scalps are skin, just like everywhere else on the body, but we often forget to treat them as such, she explains. Protecting the scalp from sunburn is important, and the best way to do that is to wear a hat if youre going to be out in direct sun for prolonged periods.

Sam McKnights Sundaze Sea Spray, from 14, Space NK

Elasticizer Deep-Conditioning Treatment, from 21, Philip Kingsley

So youve protected and rehydrated  what about styling your hair in the sun? Im sure were all familiar with salt sprays, which mimic the tousled, beachy effect you can get from being out in the water. Theyve come a long way: the newer versions dont leave your hair crunchy and often have added UV protection. You can apply most of these products to wet or dry hair to bring out any texture. Im a huge fan of Hair by Sam McKnights Sundaze Sea Spray, which gives me my dream beachy hair while protecting it, too.

Three more favourites

Color Protection Hair Mask by Oway

oway

14, Oway

This is among Anita Rices favourite masks, and one that she recommends to her clients with thick, curly or very dehydrated hair. It offers lots of nourishment, leaving the hair looking healthier and feeling much softer.

Shine Hair Mask by Fable & Mane

shine hair mask

32, Fable & Mane

I am a huge fan of Fable & Manes haircare, and this new launch is one of the brands best yet. After shampoo, leave on the chai-scented mask for three minutes; youll be left with shiny, bouncy results.

Daily Damage Defence by Philip Kingsley

daily damage defence

From 21, Philip Kingsley

This leave-in conditioner provides UV protection and fantastic hydration via a fine spray that wont leave the hair feeling tacky. Its an excellent option for fine hair that would benefit from a lightweight protectant.

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.
Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall is proposing three new city flags. (Kirby Lee / USA Today Network)

Salt Lake City adopted three new city flags Tuesday, an effort to circumvent a new Utah law that effectively banned flying LGBTQ Pride and other flags at public buildings in the state.

Mayor Erin Mendenhall, a Democrat, presented the proposal to the City Council, which adopted it at its meeting Tuesday night. It incorporates the city's flag into designs celebrating Juneteenth, LGBTQ rights and trans rights.

Follow live politics coverage here

In March, Utah became the first state to make it illegal to fly such flags at all public schools and universities and government buildings, triggering outrage among Democratic officials and civil rights groups in the state. That law prohibits unsanctioned flag displays and was widely interpreted to ban flags celebrating various communities in Salt Lake City, a blue spot in socially and politically conservative Utah.

One of the proposed flags, dubbed the Sego Belonging Flag, is intended to honor the citys LGBTQ residents, while another, which officials called the Sego Visibility Flag, is intended to recognize the citys trans community. The third proposed flag, dubbed the Sego Celebration Flag, is intended to honor the citys Black residents, as well as the history surrounding the Juneteenth holiday.

Salt Lake City adopted three new flags. The original is in the upper-left corner. The new ones celebrate trans rights, the LGBTQ community and Juneteenth.

Our City flags are powerful symbols representing Salt Lake Citys values, Mendenhall said in a statement Tuesday night. I want all Salt Lakers to be able to look up at these flags and be reminded that we value inclusion and acceptance  leaving no doubt that we are united as a city and people, moving forward together.

Like other civic symbols, these flags reflect our shared humanity and the values that help everyone feel they belong  no matter their background, orientation or beliefs, Salt Lake City Council Chair Chris Wharton added in a statement.

The state law, which is scheduled to formally take effect Wednesday, imposes a $500 fine per day on state or local government buildings that fly any flag that is not the U.S. flag, the state flag, a military flag or a flag from a brief list of exempted ones that lawmakers had approved. They include the Olympic and Paralympic flags and flags for Native American nations. Under the law, political flags were also prohibited.

Gov. Spencer Cox, a Republican, expressed concerns about the law but allowed it to take effect without his signature.

In a letter in March outlining his decision, Cox told lawmakers he agreed with the bill's "intent" to push "political neutrality," especially in schools, but he said it went too far in its attempt to regulate local government. He also wrote that by addressing only flags, the bill failed to take on other forms of political expression, like posters, signs and drawings.

In his letter, he also specifically addressed the "LGBTQ community," writing, "I want you to know that I love and appreciate you and I am grateful that you are part of our state."

"I know these words may ring hollow to many of you," he added, "but please know that I mean them sincerely."
Rare diseases affect small numbers of people, but there are many of them.(CREDIT: Dissolve)

In a groundbreaking European project, over 500 people living with mysterious medical conditions have finally received a diagnosis. These patients suffered from rare disorders such as neurological diseases, muscle conditions, intellectual disabilities, and inherited gastrointestinal cancers. After yearssometimes even decadesof uncertainty, science has brought them clarity, hope, and, in some cases, the chance of treatment.

This success didnt come from a single lab or a lone discovery. Instead, it was made possible by a powerful collaboration involving hundreds of scientists and doctors across the continent. They came together under one goal: to solve the unsolved.

A New Chapter for Rare Disease Patients

Rare diseases affect small numbers of people, but there are many of them. The European Union defines a rare disease as one that affects fewer than five in 10,000 people. In total, there are about 7,000 such diseases known today. Around 70% of them are genetic, passed down from parents to children, but many remain undiagnosed because they are poorly understood or overlooked.

Researchers Alexander Hoischen and Lisenka Vissers of Radboud University Medical Center. (CREDIT: radboudumc)

Even with advanced DNA tests, it can be hard to identify the genetic cause of a rare illness. In some families, more than one person might have the disease, yet the gene behind it remains hidden. Doctors often face a frustrating mystery that standard testing cannot solve.

To tackle this challenge, researchers across Europe launched Solve-RD, a large research project focused on analyzing genetic data from people with rare and unsolved conditions. By studying DNA in more detail, and doing so collaboratively, scientists were able to spot patterns that had been missed before.

The team reanalyzed data from 6,447 patients and 3,197 healthy family members. Using a shared method, they carefully reviewed each case. This effort led to 506 diagnoses. In about 15% of the cases, the results pointed to possible treatments or medical actions. In other cases, the new knowledge simply gave families long-awaited answers.

Related Stories

One Network, One Mission

Solve-RD brought together 300 experts from twelve countries in Europe, as well as Canada. These scientists worked within European Reference Networks, which are special groups focusing on rare diseases. Together, they developed a shared way to study and interpretgenetic data, no matter which country a patient came from.

This shared approach was critical. It meant that whether a person visited a clinic in France, the Netherlands, or Germany, their case was studied with the same tools and methods. But reaching this point wasnt easy.

Experts had to agree on which parts of the DNA to look at, which kinds of gene mutations to consider, and how to share the results. They also had to overcome legal and practical problems related to handling patient data across borders.

Hundreds of rare disease patients across Europe have received long-awaited diagnoses thanks to a groundbreaking genetic research effort. (CREDIT: Nappy/ Unsplash)

The payoff was worth the effort. With more minds looking at the same problem from different angles, researchers were able to uncover links between symptoms and genes that had been overlooked. The process also allowed scientists from different specialtieslike clinical genetics and data scienceto work together on each case.

Holm Graessner, Solve-RDs coordinator, described the impact of this effort: The Solve-RD approach to reanalyze data from unsolved rare disease patients was successful and led to a diagnosis for more than 500 patients. This is a major step forward and a milestone for therare disease research in Europe. We will continue and scale up this approach in ERDERA to provide a diagnosis to even more patients and families across Europe.

Expanding the Blueprint with ERDERA

Solve-RD is just the beginning. The strategy it used is now being scaled up by a new partnership called ERDERAthe European Rare Disease Research Alliance. Coordinated by INSERM in France, ERDERA includes over 180 organizations, many of them also involved in Solve-RD.

Overview of the Solve-RD analysis and interpretation framework and community resource established. (CREDIT: Nature Medicine)

The alliance plans to dramatically increase the number of patients whose data gets reanalyzed. While Solve-RD looked at around 10,000 datasets, ERDERA aims to process over 100,000. The goal is to reach even more people still waiting for answers.

To do this, ERDERA will use advanced tools that go beyond regular DNA sequencing. These include long-read genome sequencing, which reads larger segments of DNA to catch hard-to-spot errors.

Another method, called optical genome mapping, helps detect large changes in chromosomes. RNA sequencing, which looks at how genes are turned on or off in cells, will also be part of this next stage.

Once again, the University of Tubingen will lead the diagnostic part of this work, joined by teams from Radboud university medical center in the Netherlands and the National Center for Genomic Analysis in Barcelona. Together, these centers aim to improve both the speed and accuracy of rare disease diagnosis.

Like these kind of stories? GetThe Brighter Side of News' newsletter

Diagnoses That Change Lives

Behind the numbers are real people whose lives have been changed. Some have spent decades searching for answers. Others have gone through countless tests, doctor visits, and studies without ever learning the name of their illness.

Professor Lisenka Vissers, a lead researcher at Radboudumc, spoke about the emotional weight of these discoveries: We conducted a large reanalysis of an enormous amount of patient data. This allowed us to find similarities and draw conclusions. We have now even been able to provide a diagnosis to a patient who has been ill for twenty years and has participated in many studies.

That kind of outcome is becoming more common. With deeper analysis, more patient data, and broader collaboration, the odds of getting a diagnosis are rising. And with that comes the hope of treatment, support, and understanding.

Systematic reanalysis of genomic datasets for the genetic diagnosis of rare diseases. (CREDIT: Nature Medicine)

Professor Alexander Hoischen, another lead researcher from the university, emphasized the importance of teamwork: The fact that we have achieved this is a unique example of the power of collaboration. It's a huge step forward in European cooperation, and this is just the beginning. Although we haven't made any new discoveries yet and these diagnoses come from existing data and analyses, we hope to be able to help many more patients in the coming years. Initially by making a diagnosis, but hopefully also with possible treatments.

A Future Built on Cooperation

What this large-scale effort proves is that rare doesnt have to mean hopeless. By combining scientific skill, advanced tools, and cross-border teamwork, many of these unsolvable cases have been solved. People who once had no clear path forward now have information they can act on.

This project also sets a model for how medical research can work bestby sharing knowledge, aligning goals, and removing barriers. It shows what is possible when countries and researchers stop working in isolation and start working together.

Examples of beyond standard variant types by Solve-RD. (CREDIT: Nature Medicine)

And for thousands of patients still searching for answers, it brings a powerful message: there is hope, and science is still working on your case.

Research findings are available online in the journal Nature Medicine.

Note: The article above provided above by The Brighter Side of News.

Like these kind of feel good stories? Get The Brighter Side of News' newsletter.
Ruby Stewart/The Advertiser via AP Valerie the dachshund reunited with her owners, Josh Fishlock and Georgia Gardner







Need To Know

Valerie, an 8-pound dachshund, was rescued 529 days after going missing on the rugged Kangaroo Island

Kangala Wildlife Rescue found the dog and returned her to her family in mainland Australia after the pet cleared a health check

Veterinarians said that Valerie gained four pounds and stayed in perfect health during her time away from home







Valerie the wiener dog is finally back home with her owners after an unexpected wilderness adventure that lasted well over a year.

The 8-pound pup went missing in November 2023 on Kangaroo Island in Australia, which is known for its rugged terrain. Her owners, Georgia Gardner and Josh Fishlock, from Albury in New South Wales, were visiting the South Australian island when Valerie broke free from her pen.

A few months after Valerie went missing, Kangala Wildlife Rescue shared the family's story, which helped make Valerie's plight go viral and drum up volunteers to search for the pet. After 529 days of scouring the island and several Valerie sightings, the Kangala Wildlife Rescue and volunteers managed to capture the canine, ending the over-year-long search party.

"After weeks of tireless efforts by Kangala Wildlife Rescue volunteers and partner organizations, Valerie has been safely rescued and is fit and well," the Kangala Wildlife Rescue organization shared alongside a video of Valerie post-rescue. "We are absolutely thrilled and deeply relieved that Valerie is finally safe and able to begin her transition back to her loving parents, Josh and Georgia."

Kangala Wildlife Rescue/Facebook Valerie the dachshund

On Tuesday, May 6, Victor Vet, a local veterinary treatment center near Kangala Wildlife Rescue, cleared Valerie to return to her owners, noting that the pup was in "perfect health."

"Big day out for little Valerie as she got the tick of approval from our friends at Victor Vet," the rescue organization shared. "Valerie is in perfect health and ready for her parents and the next chapter of her life."

The post continued, "After 529 days on foot, riding in the car was a little challenging, but after a gentle reintroduction and lots of little trips, she's doing great and loved her window seat on the Sealink ferry. The long drive home should be a walk in the park for her now."

Kangala Wildlife Rescue/Facebook Valerie the dachshund

In a statement to The Guardian, Gardner said that Valerie was "making her little happy sounds, and wiggling around with joy." The happy owners also noticed that the pup had put on nearly four pounds, so the dog almost didn't fit in her old harnesses. "She's stockier now, strong and healthy," said Gardner.

"No one thought a little dachshund like Valerie would survive alone in the wild, but more than 12 months after she went missing, regular reports started coming in about a dachshund with a pink collar being seen about 15 kilometres from Stokes Bay," Kangala wrote in a Facebook post, championing the pet's endurance.

Kangala Wildlife Rescue/Facebook Valerie the dachshund

While there's no definitive answer as to how the small dog survived the wilderness alone that long, there are speculations. Some commenters of the viral post believe another local found and cared for the dog, hence the additional weight and shiny coat. Others are convinced that Valerie ate roadkill and other animals' feces and drank from dams to survive.

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.

Valerie cannot share tales from her adventures, but her owners, the Kangala Wildlife Rescue volunteers and partner organizations, are pleased that she's back home safe and sound.

Read the original article on People
Kaufman County Sheriff's Office Trevor McEuen

Trevor McEuen, who is charged with capital murder, is being sought by Texas authorities after removing his ankle monitor on the morning of Monday, May 5

McEuen was set to go on trial Monday in connection with a May 2023 killing

Authorities are unsure if McEuen is armed and urged the public to "remain vigilant" and not approach him



Texas authorities are on the hunt for a murder suspect who removed his ankle monitor on the day he was set to go on trial.

In a statement shared on social media Monday, May 5, the Kaufman County Sheriff's Office said multiple law enforcement agencies are searching for Trevor McEuen, who is charged with capital murder.

He was scheduled to appear in court for his trial Monday but instead removed his court-ordered ankle monitor around 5:30 a.m. that day and left his residence, according to the sheriffs offices statement.

"It is currently unknown whether McEuen fled on foot or in a vehicle, and there is no description of the clothing he may be wearing, the sheriffs office said. Authorities also have not confirmed whether he is armed. The public is urged to remain vigilant and not approach McEuen if spotted.

McEuens capital murder charge is related to the May 2023 shooting death of his neighbor, 35-year-old Aaron Martinez, ABC affiliate WFAA, KDFW and CBS News all reported, citing authorities.

McEuen told Martinez that Hispanics were not welcome in the area shortly after he moved in, Martinezs relatives claimed to CBS News Texas. The outlet reported, citing incident reports, that Martinez had safety concerns about McEuen since July 2022.

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.

While McEuen was arrested in May 2023, he posted bond with multiple conditions, court records show, per CBS News. McEuen was arrested again in September 2024 after he posted pictures on social media of Martinez and his uncle, threatening to shoot them, per court documents reviewed by the outlet.

He was held on $2 million bond but was released after posting it last December, the outlet reported, citing court records.

Authorities are now offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to McEuens arrest.

Anyone with information on McEuens whereabouts is asked to contact the Kaufman County Sheriffs Office at 469-376-4500 immediately or reach out to Kaufman County Crime Stoppers at 1-877-847-7522.



Read the original article on People
Students and teachers protest the government's decision to sign a memorandum of understanding on security cooperation with the U.S. that they believe violates their nation's sovereignty in Panama City, Tuesday, May 6, 2025. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix)

PANAMA CITY (AP)  Thousands of Panamanians marched in the capital Tuesday in the largest protest yet against an agreement signed during last month's visit by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth giving U.S. troops access to strategic air and naval facilities in the Central American nation.

U.S. President Donald Trump thrust Panama into the spotlight even before winning election last November by suggesting that his country should consider retaking control of the Panama Canal and accusing Panama of ceding influence to China.

Panama has vehemently rejected those comments but also tried to pacify the new administration, which has slapped tariffs on many trade partners.

University students led Tuesdays protest accusing President Jose Raul Mulino of sacrificing Panamas sovereignty with the deal.

We feel like our president is acting against the wishes of many Panamanians and in very sensitive affairs, 30-year-old student Tony Ruiz said. He signs an agreement behind our back that compromises our sovereignty, our neutrality with the world.

The previous night Foreign Affairs Minister Javier Martinez-Acha said of the agreement with Washington: The memorandum of understanding does not imply a surrender of sovereignty, nor does it violate the national constitution, nor the neutrality treaty.

Bases where the U.S. will get access for military personnel and contractors will always remain under the control of Panama and it can terminate the agreement with six months notice, he said.

Martinez-Acha said the U.S. government acted in bad faith in how it handled the sensitive issue in the media, an apparent reference to Trumps inflammatory comments on the canal, but nonetheless Panama was being prudent and trying to avoid sanctions that have befallen other countries.

International cooperation is necessary to strengthen our capabilities, he said. Collaborating with the United States in this case helps us improve security without affecting our sovereignty or our laws.

The details of the deal only became public days after Hegseth's visit.

In a separate agreement, Panama also agreed to look for a way for the U.S. government to be reimbursed for fees its naval ships pay to transit the Canal. The Trump administration has argued that it should not be obligated to defend the canal and pay to use it.

The U.S. built the canal in the early 1900s as it looked for ways to facilitate the transit of commercial and military vessels between its coasts. Control of the waterway transferred to Panama in 1999 under a treaty signed in 1977 by President Jimmy Carter.

The Trump administration has also pressured for the Hong Kong-based operator of ports at either end of the canalto sell those interests to a U.S. consortium that includes BlackRock Inc.

While Martinez-Acha suggested that politically motivated opponents are stirring controversy, the student protesters expressed concern about a U.S. return to a country it invaded as recently as 1989.

We are a neutral country; we cannot take sides with any country, said Jam Allard, another student.

We want our country to be sovereign.
Getty

It wasnt the most contentious meeting the Oval Office has ever seen. Nor was it the warmest.

Instead, the highly anticipated meeting Tuesday between President Donald Trump and his new Canadian counterpart Mark Carney fell somewhere in the middle: neither openly hostile nor outwardly chummy, evincing very little neighborliness, at least the type used on neighbors one likes.

The midday talks illustrated neatly the new dynamic between the once-friendly nations, whose 5,525-mile border  the worlds longest  once guaranteed a degree of cooperation but which, to Trump, represents something very different.

Somebody drew that line many years ago with, like, a ruler, just a straight line right across the top of the country, Trump said in the Oval Office as his meeting was getting underway. When you look at that beautiful formation when its together  Im a very artistic person, but when I looked at that, I said: Thats the way it was meant to be.

That is not how Carney believes it was meant to be.

Im glad that you couldnt tell what was going through my mind, Carney told reporters later that day about the moment Trump made that remark.

Still, Carney didnt entirely hold his tongue.

In a meeting dominated by Trumps comments  he spoke 95% of the time on all manner of topics, from the Middle East to Barack Obamas presidential library to the state of high-speed rail in California  it was the new prime ministers pushback on the presidents ambition to make Canada the 51st US state that stood out.

As you know from real estate, there are some places that are never for sale, he said, drawing a begrudging thats true from Trump before Carney carried on.

Were sitting in one right now. You know, Buckingham Palace that you visited as well, he continued, as Trump nodded another true.

And having met with the owners of Canada over the course of the campaign last several months, its not for sale, he concluded. It wont be for sale ever.

With that statement, Carney essentially accomplished what hed come to Washington to do, stating in the clearest terms possible that Canada would not be annexed by its southern neighbor.

Of course, hes been saying that for weeks, most vocally during last months federal election in Canada that saw his Liberals mount a shocking come-from-behind win riding a wave of anti-Trump sentiment.

Before arriving at the White House, Carney also sought to send the message by announcing an upcoming visit from King Charles III, Canadas official head of state, using the sovereign to make the point that Canadas sovereignty wasnt up for debate.

Those messages, if hes heard them, have not caused Trump to back off, not even when sitting across from Carney in the Oval Office.

Never say never, Trump shrugged, as Carney mouthed the word never over and over next to him. Ive had many, many things that were not doable, and they ended up being doable, and only doable in a very friendly way.

Still, the president didnt press the matter further, and the meeting did not fall off the rails. For a topic that has caused so much visceral anger in Canada, the issue was essentially defused, for the time being, in the Oval Office.

After reporters left the room, Carney told Trump it was not useful to repeat his idea of annexing Canada.

But he is the president, he said recalling the exchange at a solo press conference after the meeting ended, and he will say what he wants.

Trump hasnt, however, deployed the insult against Carney that he used against his predecessor, Justin Trudeau. As far as calling him Governor Carney, no, I havent done that yet  and maybe I wont, Trump said at an unrelated White House event later in the day.

Carney said theyd agreed to meet again next month at the G7 summit he is hosting in Alberta, which Trump had previously not committed to attend.

Still, relations between Washington and Ottawa remain at their lowest point in memory.

As Carney was at Blair House, across Pennsylvania Avenue from the White House, preparing to depart for his meeting with Trump, the president launched a broadside on Truth Social, declaring Canada was overly dependent on the United States.

We dont need ANYTHING they have, other than their friendship, which hopefully we will always maintain, Trump wrote. They, on the other hand, need EVERYTHING from us!

By the time Carney arrived, however, Trump seemed uninterested in having a public fight.

We have some tough points to go over, and thatll be fine, Trump said after praising Carney for one of the greatest comebacks in the history of politics.

The meeting ended somewhat abruptly with Trump declaring the US did not need Canadian cars or steel, and that there was nothing Carney could say or do that would cause him to lift tariffs.

Just the way it is, Trump said.

But by the standards of the Trump White House, where another leader was berated and evicted in the Oval Office earlier this year, it was all relatively mild.

Even Trump acknowledged hed seen worse.

We had another little blow up with somebody else, Trump said, a veiled allusion to his fight with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. That was a much different. This is, this is a very friendly conversation.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
By Nate Raymond

(Reuters) -A federal appeals court has ordered President Donald Trump's administration to transfer a Turkish student at Tufts University to Vermont for a bail hearing from Louisiana, where she is being detained by immigration authorities after engaging in pro-Palestinian advocacy on campus.

Wednesday's ruling by the New York-based 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals marked a victory for Rumeysa Ozturk, and brought her a step closer to a hearing at which a judge could decide to order her release after six weeks in custody.

Her case has become a high-profile example of the Republican president's efforts to deport pro-Palestinian activists on U.S. campuses who have spoken out against Israel's war in Gaza.

A three-judge panel rejected the administration's request to pause a judge's April 18 order requiring Ozturk to be transferred to Vermont so she could be available for a bail hearing and proceedings in the legal challenge to her detention.

"We're grateful the court refused the government's attempt to keep her isolated from her community and her legal counsel as she pursues her case for release," said Esha Bhandari, a lawyer for Ozturk at the American Civil Liberties Union.

U.S. District Judge William Sessions in Burlington had previously scheduled the bail hearing for Friday, but the 2nd Circuit gave the administration until May 14 to transfer Ozturk, which could result in bail proceedings being postponed.

The administration could potentially ask the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene. The U.S. Department of Justice did not respond to a request for comment.

Ozturk, a PhD student and Fulbright scholar, was arrested on a street in the Boston suburb of Somerville in March after the U.S. State Department revoked her student visa, citing an op-ed she co-authored in Tufts' student newspaper last year.

That opinion piece criticized the school's response to calls by students to divest from companies with ties to Israel after the onset of the war in Gaza, and to "acknowledge the Palestinian genocide."

Her arrest by masked agents was captured in a viral video and prompted immediate litigation. Her lawyers called her detention unlawful and a violation of her free speech rights under the U.S. Constitution's First Amendment.

She was sent to Louisiana the day after her arrest, after being briefly held in Vermont.

A lawsuit filed in Boston was later transferred to Vermont, over the objections of the Trump administration, which argued she could only challenge her detention where she was being held, in Louisiana. The state is home to the most conservative federal appeals court in the country.

The administration told the appeals court that Congress had made clear that any challenges to government deportation decisions must proceed in immigration court, rather than federal district court like the one Ozturk will attend in Vermont.

But the panel in Wednesday's decision rejected the venue arguments and said Ozturk's legal challenge concerned only her arrest and detention. The court said her lawsuit could be resolved without affecting the immigration proceedings.

"She asserts that the government arrested and detained her to prevent speech with which it disagrees," the panel said. "Such an act would be a violation of the Constitution - quite separate from the removal procedures followed by the immigration courts."

(Reporting by Nate Raymond in Boston; Editing by David Bario and Nia Williams)
People walk around in Martyrs Square in Tripoli, Libya, on April 28. (Mahmud Turkia / AFP - Getty Images file)

A federal judge granted a temporary restraining order preventing migrants from being sent to Libya or any other third country after immigration attorneys filed an emergency motion Wednesday.

The United States reportedly plans to send a group of undocumented immigrants to Libya as early as this week.

A U.S. military aircraft is expected to transport the migrants who are from the Philippines, Vietnam and Laos, among other countries, the motion said.

The plaintiffs are being set for removal without any reasonable fear screening, let alone a fifteen-day window to file a motion to reopen with the immigration court to contest any negative reasonable fear determination, according to the motion, which was filed in U.S District Court in Massachusetts.

In one case, the attorneys said in the motion, Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers at a South Texas detention facility gathered several detainees in a room. The detainees were told that they needed to sign a document agreeing to be deported to Libya, the document said. When they refused, they were put in separate rooms, cuffed in, and forced to sign the document, the motion says.

Libyas provisional Government of National Unity said on social media that it is not coordinating deportations with the United States and that it rejects using the country as a destination for deported immigrants without its knowledge or consent.

The Government categorically denies the existence of any agreement or coordination with it regarding the reception of any migrants deported from the United States, it said.

It also suggested that some parallel parties that are not subject to legitimacy could be involved with the developments.

Khalifa Haftars Libyan National Army, which controls eastern Libya, said in a statement that it also opposed the countrys taking in deported migrants because it would violate the sovereignty of the homeland.

A State Department spokesperson said the agency does not discuss the details of our diplomatic communications with other governments. The Department of Homeland Security declined to comment on anything related to Libya deportations.

The Trump administration has been deporting migrants in what experts have said is a move to strong-arm weaker countries.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last month at a Cabinet meeting that the United States is actively searching for other countries to take people.

We are working with other countries to say, We want to send you some of the most despicable human beings to your countries, Rubio said. Will you do that as a favor to us? And the further away the better, so they cant come back across the border.

The Trump administration struck a $6 million deal with El Salvador this year to imprison deportees it says are members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua and the street gang MS-13. The administration has labeled both gangs foreign terrorist organizations.

Hundreds of people have already been sent to El Salvador. Many of them are from Venezuela, and almost all were bound for the maximum-security Terrorist Confinement Center, known by its Spanish acronym, CECOT. Human rights groups have criticized prison conditions in the country, alleging systematic torture, malnutrition and other abuses.

Other countries, like Costa Rica, have also agreed to serve as a bridge between the United States and the migrants, many of whom have no criminal records.

Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves said at a news conference in February that the country is helping its economically powerful brother from the north.

Libya has long been criticized for its treatment of migrants. The Independent Fact-Finding Mission on Libya, established by the United Nations Human Rights Council, found in its report from 2023 that it was likely that crimes against humanity were committed against Libyans and migrants throughout Libya.

The report documented examples of arbitrary detention, murder, torture, rape, enslavement, sexual slavery, extrajudicial killing and enforced disappearance, confirming their widespread practice in Libya.

A six-year civil war between the countrys rival political factions ended in a ceasefire in 2020. However, threats to the regions stability have continued.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks during a news conference on the Autism report by the CDC at the Hubert Humphrey Building Auditorium in Washington, Wednesday, April 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)

WASHINGTON (AP)  Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced a plan Wednesday to use medical data and records from people on Medicaid and Medicare to help study autism although experts say it's unlikely to help reveal the condition's root causes.

The program will involve a data sharing agreement between the National Institutes of Health, the governments health research arm, and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, which has access to claims data from nearly 150 million Americans across the country.

Were using this partnership to uncover the root causes of autism and other chronic diseases, Kennedy said in a statement.

The agreement will be consistent with applicable privacy laws to protect Americans sensitive health information, the HHS statement said. The health department did not respond to additional questions about the program.

Using the data, the agency said researchers will focus on autism diagnosis trends, health outcomes from medical or behavioral treatment, access to care based on demographics and geography as well the economic burden of autism on families and health care systems.

The problem is that this isnt the kind of data needed to answer questions about autisms causes, said Helen Tager-Flusberg, professor emerita at Boston University who leads a new Coalition of Autism Scientists pushing back on Kennedys characterizations of the condition.

Enough research has been done at this point to know there is no simple magic bullet, she said, cautioning that this type of dataset won't help with the type of research most needed  into genetics and other prenatal, preconception and early infancy factors.

Kennedy has directed the health department to undertake a far-reaching research effort to identify the causes of autism, a complex disorder that impacts the brain. Announcing his plans last month, Kennedy said he plans to provide answers as to what causes autism by September. He has since said the department will determine at least some of the causes.

His research directive comes as autism rates in the U.S. are rising, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention releasing a report that an estimated 1 in 31 U.S. children have autism, a marked increase from 2020. Scientists and researchers who study autism have said that increase in diagnoses is the result of increased awareness about the disorder, especially among people who exhibit milder symptoms of autism.

Kennedy has rejected that explanation in public appearances, instead describing autism as a preventable disease that is caused by environmental factors.

Autism is not considered a disease but a complex brain disorder. Those who have spent decades researching autism have found no single cause, although genetic factors are associated with it. In addition to genetics, scientists have identified various possible factors, including the age of a childs father, the mothers weight and whether she had diabetes or was exposed to certain chemicals.

Kennedy's comments have sparked alarm among autism researchers and advocates, who fear he will use the study to support a discredited theory that vaccines cause autism. Kennedy, a longtime vaccine critic, has pushed that theory before, although decades of research has found no link between vaccines and autism. President Donald Trump has also suggested that vaccines could be to blame for autism rates.

The new platform that HHS plans to launch around autism will be a pilot," that will be used to study chronic conditions and treatments, the agency said.

-

Associated Press writer Lauran Neergaard contributed reporting.
Virginia teenagers said they were recording a ding-dong ditch prank for a TikTok video when a homeowner opened fire, killing an 18-year-old boy.

The homeowner, Tyler Chase Butler, was arrested on charges of second-degree murder, malicious wounding and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony in the death of Michael Bosworth Jr. It's not clear whether Butler has an attorney.

The shooting happened around 3 a.m. Saturday, the Spotsylvania County Sheriffs Office said in a news release. Deputies were sent to a home near McKenzie Lane in the Washington, D.C., suburb following a call for a residential burglary in progress, in which a resident had fired shots.

Bosworth and another person had gunshot wounds, the sheriff's office said. Bosworth was taken to the hospital, where he died from his injuries. The other person, a juvenile, was treated and released. A third juvenile with them was unharmed, authorities said.

Butler, 27, told investigators that he believed the teens were trying to break into his home, NBC Washington reported.

According to a search warrant affidavit obtained by NBC News, one of the teens told detectives that they were recording ding-dong ditch pranks for a TikTok video, in which they ring people's doorbells and then run away. The teen said that they had been to a couple of homes in the neighborhood and that he was not familiar with the area.

"The juvenile stated that they had run to hide. The juvenile said as they were running from a residence, he and his friends were shot at," the affidavit says.

The other teen gave a similar account and told detectives that he had a video on his phone of them doing the prank earlier that day, according to the affidavit.

Bosworth was a senior at Massaponax High School. He was killed hours before the school prom.

"School counselors will be on site at the event to provide support as needed," the school district said in a letter to the school community. "Also, when students return to school on Monday, our counseling staff and additional division support team members will be available to provide support to our students and staff as needed. If your child needs support, please contact the school so that we can provide assistance. Our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time."

Butler is being held in Rappahannock Regional Jail on no bond.
Two sworn enemies, both nuclear-armed. A disputed region. A deadly attack on tourists. And now, retaliation.

India launched military strikes against Pakistan on May 7 as tensions between the two rival nations spiraled.

"Anything can happen," a former top Pakistani security official told USA TODAY.

India said it launched missiles targeting "terrorist infrastructure" in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, the divided Himalayan territory that India also controls a section of.

Pakistan's military said it shot down five Indian aircraft during the attack  a claim unconfirmed by India.

More: Kashmir conflict: A look at how India and Pakistan became nuclear powers

Men gather to attend funeral prayers of people killed after a madrasa was hit by an Indian strike in Bahawalpur, Pakistan May 7, 2025.

Pakistan said India's attack killed at least 26 civilians and wounded 46 more. India's army said at least 10 civilians were killed and 35 injured in cross-border shelling by Pakistani troops in Kashmir.

As Pakistan's military vows to respond further to India's strikes, here's what you need to know about the escalating crisis.

More: Putin, Ukraine, long-range missiles and why there's talk about WWIII

A tourist massacre, and retaliation

India blames Pakistan for an April 22 attack in Pahalgam, a picturesque Himalayan meadow, that killed 26 tourists, most of them Hindu men. India has for decades accused Pakistan of supporting militant attacks and says it has evidence a group linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, an Islamist militant outfit based in Pakistan, carried out the Pahalgam attack.

Pahalgam attack 26 tourists killed in India-controlled Kashmir

A Pakistan Army soldier stands in front of damaged Bilal Mosque after it was hit by an Indian strike in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, May 7, 2025.

Pakistan says the evidence is fabricated and denies any involvement.

India labeled its May 7 attack "Operation Sindoor," a reference to the red vermilion powder worn by married Hindu women. This is an apparent reference to Indian women widowed by the April 22 attack.

Start your day informed: Sign up for USA TODAY's Daily Briefing newsletter.

What's behind Pakistan-India tensions?

Nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan have fought several wars and have been involved in a number of military standoffs since gaining independence from Britain in 1947. The partition of colonial India established a secular, Hindu-majority India and Muslim-majority Pakistan.

A timeline of conflict: India and Pakistan's wars

India and Pakistan both claim in full the mainly Muslim region Kashmir. Each controls just a part of it. The attack on Pahalgam was the deadliest assault on civilians in Kashmir in recent years. Pakistan separately accuses India of supporting separatist rebels in Pakistan, which India denies.

India-Pakistan: Where do things go from here?

The United Nations, Russia, France and China, which neighbors India and Pakistan, all called for maximum restraint.

President Donald Trump called the fighting "a shame," adding, "I hope it ends quickly."

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke to the national security advisers of both nations, urging them to "avoid escalation."

A cold India-Pakistan hotline

India's embassy in Washington said in an emailed statement that the country's military actions were "focused and precise" and "designed to be non-escalatory in nature."

A border officer stands guard at the Attari-Wagah crossing on the India-Pakistan border on April 25, 2025.

Still, Moeed Yusuf, a former national security adviser of Pakistan, said in a phone interview that India and Pakistan do not have any "robust bilateral escalation-control mechanisms." He said that the international community, especially the United States, has taken a somewhat detached position on the crisis.

"President Trump has signaled, 'You know, they will figure it out on their own,'" he said.

Yusuf noted that the South Asia region has been labeled the most likely nuclear flashpoint for a reason.

One factor is geography. Unlike the nuclear warfare threat that existed between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War, Pakistan and India are not separated by any meaningful distance. There is no time to "reason," Yusuf said.

The nations also don't use their "hotlines," a system that allows direct leader-to-leader communication, Yusuf noted. Under such conditions, he said, miscommunication and misunderstanding can lead to dire consequences.

What do water and nukes have to do with India-Pakistan crisis?

Amid the crisis, India has threatened to halt the flow of river water over the border to Pakistan, where it is a vital supply to 80% of farms. The 1960 Indus Waters Treaty governs this river-sharing arrangement.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi suspended the treaty after the attack on Pahalgam. Pakistan's leaders have warned that any attempt to stop the flow of water entirely would be considered an act of war.

Yusuf said that might amount to a "red line" for Pakistan because it could effectively "starve" millions of Pakistanis.

Indian security force personnel stand guard near the site of a fighter jet crash in Wuyan in India-administered Kashmir on May 7, 2025.

India's national security adviser, Ajit Doval, told Indian media his nation had "no intent to escalate" but was "well prepared to retaliate resolutely should Pakistan decide to escalate."

Nine countries possess nuclear weapons, according to the Geneva-based International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons: Russia, the United States, China, France, the United Kingdom, Pakistan, India, Israel and North Korea. Pakistan has an estimated 170 nuclear warheads. India has 164, according to ICAN.

"When survival is in question, anything can happen. No sane mind should ever think of that moment," added Yusuf, referring to Pakistan's nuclear arsenal. "That's why it is essential to stop now, rather than test that proposition."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: India attacked nuclear rival Pakistan. What happens next?
A woman who died after eating a Beef Wellington dish laced with death cap mushrooms told a doctor it tasted "delicious," a court heard Wednesday, as her Australian host faces triple murder charges.

Erin Patterson, 50, is accused of murdering the parents and aunt of her estranged husband by cooking and serving up the poisonous beef-and-pastry meal.

She is also charged with the attempted murder of her husband's uncle, who survived the dish after a long stay in hospital. Patterson has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

A hospital doctor testified about two of the four poisoned lunch guests  Heather Wilkinson and her husband Ian, a pastor.

He treated the pair, who are the aunt and uncle of Erin Patterson's husband, when they were rushed to hospital suffering from vomiting and diarrhea.

When the couple first arrived, they were "conscious" and "alert," Dr. Christopher Webster told the court in Morwell, southeast of Melbourne.

"They were clearly unwell but were not distressed. They were both able to freely communicate," he said.

A day earlier, they lunched on individually prepared beef Wellingtons at Erin Patterson's home in the sedate Victoria state farm village of Leongatha, the court has heard.

The doctor said he initially suspected the couple had food poisoning from the meat in the beef Wellington.

"I did ask Heather what the beef Wellington tasted like and she said it was delicious," he told the court.

Erin Patterson looks on in Melbourne, Australia, April 15, 2025. / Credit: James Ross/AP

The next morning, a doctor from another hospital called him to say the two other lunch guests  Erin's parents-in-law Don and Gail Patterson  had suspected poisoning from death cap mushrooms.

Ian and Heather Wilkinson were then transferred for acute care at another hospital.

Within days, three of the four lunch guests were dead. Ian Wilkinson, the pastor, lived after weeks of hospital treatment.

On Tuesday, Ian Wilkinson told the courtroom that he and his wife had been "very happy to be invited" to the lunch, the BBC reported.

Wilkinson told the court that Patterson had plated "all of the food," according to the BBC.

"Each person had an individual serve, it was very much like a pasty," he said. "It was a pastry case and when we cut into it, there was steak and mushrooms."

He said Patterson was "definitely" eating but couldn't say "with certainty" how much she ate.

"They can be scared and alive or dead"

The court also heard that lunch host Erin Patterson's estranged husband, Simon, had been invited to the meal but declined, saying he was uncomfortable with the prospect.

Erin Patterson went to hospital two days after the lunch, but left five minutes later against medical advice, the doctor said.

"I was surprised," he told the court.

Patterson later returned and told Webster her children had also consumed the beef Wellington  but not the mushrooms or pastry.

She was hesitant to tell them about the poisoning in case they became "frightened," the doctor said. "I said: 'They can be scared and alive or dead.'"

The court also heard from another of Don and Gail Patterson's sons, Matthew, who said he had called the lunch host to ask where the mushrooms came from.

Erin Patterson told him she bought some of the mushrooms at a "Chinese shop," but could not recall which one, he said.

Matthew said he thought the accused was a devoted mother who had a positive relationship with his parents.

The prosecution alleges Erin Patterson deliberately poisoned her lunch guests and took care that neither she, nor her children, consumed the deadly mushrooms.

Her defense says it was "a terrible accident" and that Patterson ate the same meal as the others but did not fall as sick.

The trial is expected to last six weeks.

Death cap mushrooms

Police have said the symptoms of the sickened family members were consistent with poisoning from wild amanita phalloides, known as death cap mushrooms.

Death cap mushrooms sprout freely throughout wet, warm parts of Australia and are easily mistaken for edible varieties. They reportedly taste sweeter than other types of mushrooms but possess potent toxins that slowly poison the liver and kidneys.

Death caps are responsible for 90% of lethal mushroom poisoning globally, the BBC reported.

In 2022, doctors in Massachusetts were able to save a mother and son who nearly died from death cap mushroom poisoning. In 2020, a spate of poisonings in Victoria, Australia, killed one person and hospitalized seven others.

Sneak peek: The Depraved Heart Murder

Why Hegseth is calling for cuts to senior ranks across U.S. military

Analyzing Trump's announcement of ceasefire with Houthi rebels in Yemen
by Shafique Khokhar

India struck Pakistani territory overnight in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Pakistan responded by shooting down planes and stressing that the victims were civilians, not terrorists as claimed by India. In Pakistan, activists, religious leaders and civil society groups harshly condemn the attack.

Lahore (AsiaNews)  India launched air strikes, named Operation Sindoor, over nighttime against Pakistan. At 1 am today, Indian missiles hit nine targets in Pakistan and Pakistani-held territory.

According to Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, director general of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the attack killed eight civilians  including a three-year-old girl  and wounded 35, while two people are missing.

The missiles reportedly hit nine targets, in Bahawalpur, Muzaffarabad, Kotli and Muridke, destroying homes and mosques.

India said the operation targeted terror hubs, two weeks after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian-controlled Kashmir, which killed 26 civilians. New Delhi accuses Islamabad of being the instigator of that attack, a charge the latter has rejected.

Pakistan has instead accused India of targeting civilians and responded militarily saying that it shot down five Indian military jets and struck sites along the so-called Line of Control, the demarcation border that divides Kashmir.

By this morning, the toll had risen to 26 dead and 47 wounded on the Pakistani side, and seven dead and 38 wounded on the Indian side, but after Pakistan's response in Kashmir, Indian media reported the death of another 10 civilians.

I strongly condemn the escalation of conflict and acts of war between India and Pakistan, said Michelle Chaudhary, director of the Cecil & Iris Chaudhry Foundation, speaking to AsiaNews.

The people of both nations have suffered too much, for too long, she added. The grief of losing loved ones is universal. Those left behind mourn alike, regardless of which side of the border they belong. Hostility needs to cease, diplomatic engagement prioritised, and disputes must be resolved through dialogue. We extend complete solidarity with the Armed Forces of Pakistan as they very bravely give their all to protect the sovereignty of our homeland.

British human rights activist Amelia Gill also did not mince her words. When an extremist government loses their minds, its always the people who lose their lives. India fires missiles inside Pakistan and casually calls it non-escalatory, she said.

A joke of the highest order, if only it werent so tragic and when all this madness ends, which it will, because no one wants a nuclear war. Guess who still stay dead? The tourists, who were killed in attacks in India, and the innocent people who died in missile strikes in Pakistan.

This, the activist added, is what happens when you elect the likes of Modi, extremists, to power, who carry out military actions to please a voter base drunk on hate and nationalism. Instead, Lets be sane and wish for peace to prevail before minds are shattered and futures are lost.

Father Lazar Aslam, a Capuchin Franciscan priest from Pakistan, also launched a plea. I express my deep concern over the escalating conflict between India and Pakistan. With a heavy heart, I appeal to both nations to choose peace over hostility and to seek paths of reconciliation grounded in justice and mutual respect.

It is my steadfast belief that we must strive to live in peace. History has repeatedly shown that war brings only suffering and destruction. India and Pakistan have already fought multiple wars, each one resulting in the loss of innocent lives and ending in temporary ceasefires  never true resolutions. The cost of continued conflict is borne not by leaders, but by civilians  families, children, and communities devastated by violence.

He goes on to say: The late Holy Father Pope Francis travelled the world with a singular message: peace. Thus, Inspired by his mission, I offer my prayers for peace and reconciliation in South Asia. [. . .] I also call upon religious leaders, civil society, and global institutions to unite in fostering a spirit of peace. Strength is not found in weapons or warfare but in the courage to forgive, to listen, and to work for harmony.

On the anniversary of the self-immolation of Bishop John Joseph, in 1998, Christian and Muslim leaders in Faisalabad issued a press release slamming the military escalation, led by Bishop Indrias Rehmat of Faisalabad, together with Pir Abdul Rahman (chairman of the Central Interfaith Peace Committee), Hafiz Muhammad Khabib Hamid (member of the Peace Committee Faisalabad), and other clergymen,

The joint statement reads: We respect the dignity and rights of all human beings and stand together for the establishment of a peaceful, democratic, and just societal system. In a world where wars and atrocities are prevalent, we [. . .] condemn the atrocities committed by India.

At the same time, We stand with our national army and appreciate their determination and sacrifices in defending our homeland. We acknowledge their hard work and courageous efforts, which are essential for safeguarding our borders and establishing peace.
by Nirmala Carvalho

In a town of just 8,000 inhabitants in the state of Goa lie the roots of both the Indian Filipe Neri Ferrao and the Pakistani Joseph Coutts, who from this afternoon are participating as electors in the selection of the new pontiff. A sign of the Church of the peripheries, but also of the vitality of a community founded four centuries ago by Portuguese Franciscans. And in these hours, it is also a symbol of the thirst for peace between the two countries now plunged into a new crisis over Kashmir.

Goa (AsiaNews)  Among the unique features of the Conclave opening today in the Sistine Chapel, there is one that few have noticed: among the electors who will choose the new pontiff, two have roots in the same placea small Indian town of just 8,000 inhabitants.

Both Indian Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao, Archbishop of Goa, and Pakistani Cardinal Joseph Coutts, Archbishop Emeritus of Karachi, originate from Aldona, a distinctive locality set in the lush northern landscape of the small state of Goa, the heart of Indian Catholicism. A place that, in some ways, symbolizes the shifting center of gravity of the Church.

This shared origin of two cardinals who today live in countries like India and Pakistan takes on particular meaning especially in light of the dramatic news of recent hours, with Operation Sindoor launched by the Indian army in retaliation for a terrorist attack a few days ago in Pakistan. This gives even more weight to the appeal for peace currently coming from the Churches of both countries.

Cardinal Ferrao was born in Aldona in 1953 and grew up there: his family still lives in a house in the Santerxette neighborhood. Cardinal Coutts, on the other hand, was born in Amritsar in 1945, but his father was originally from Aldona and moved to Karachi for his work at Imperial Chemical Industries.

Bishop first in Hyderabad, then in Faisalabad, and finally in Karachi, he has always maintained a strong connection with Goa, to the extent that in 2000 he was invited to preside over the celebration in which Saint Joseph Vaz was proclaimed patron of the archdiocese.

The entire state of Goa has long been a cradle of bishops and cardinals: there are about 60 who were born here and have carried out their ministry in India, Pakistan, or even as missionaries in Africa.

But Aldona stands out for being the birthplace of at least six prelates, including Coutts and Ferrao, as well as the Archbishop Emeritus of Karachi, Mons. Evarist Pinto, and the Archbishop of New Delhi, Mons. Anil Coutowho is in fact a cousin of Cardinal Coutts.

Goa was ruled by the Portuguese for 450 years, with a history comparable to that of British India. But their rule was accompanied by a missionary mandate, with the presence of Franciscan, Dominican, Jesuit, and Augustinian religious orders. It is no coincidence that Goa was the departure base for the journeys of Saint Francis Xavier, who is buried there.

Following in his footsteps, many other missionaries also left this Indian city to bring the Gospel to far-off lands such as South Africa, Japan, and China. As Fr. Joaquim Loiola Pereira explained in an interview with Catholic News Service (CNS), Goas abundant priestly vocations are partly due to the regional custom of "traditionally offering one child to God."

Within this context is also found the story of the village of Aldona, which has the Church of Saint Thomas at its center. The Franciscans began their mission there by building a chapel in Coimavaddo in 1569.

The missionaries made great efforts to study the local language and succeeded in their apostolate: thanks to their dedication and the enthusiasm of the people of Aldona, Christianity flourished quickly, and by 1596, a larger and more central church was built at its current site. In 1720, according to Aldonas then-rector Ignacio de Madre de Deus, there were 3,377 Catholics in the parish. That vitality continues today with a wide array of pastoral initiatives in youth education, charity, and spiritual life centered around the Church of Saint Thomas.

In 1996, the fourth centenary of the Church of Saint Thomas was celebrated with a solemn concelebration in whichalongside then-Archbishop of Goa and Daman, Mons. Raul Gonsalvesparticipated the then-Bishop of Hyderabad, Mons. Joseph Coutts; the then-Auxiliary Bishop of Goa, Mons. Filipe Neri Ferrao; and the then-Auxiliary Bishop of Mumbai, Mons. Ferdinand Fonseca (now deceased), all of whom are originally from this community.
Todays headlines : the Burmese junta extends the ceasefire due to the earthquake (so far never respected); In Turkey, popular support grows for Imamoglu in a hypothetical two-man race against Erdogan for the presidency; Seouls High Court postpones the trial of presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung; Nepal among the countries in the world where climate change inaction is most evident; Bangkok closes a popular tourist site near the Laos border due to armed clashes.

PAKISTAN - INDIA

Overnight, India attacked at least nine targets in Pakistan and Pakistani Kashmir across six different locations, in the worst fighting between the two nuclear-armed countries in more than two decades. Delhi claims it struck nine terrorist infrastructure sites, some of which are linked to an Islamist militant attack on Hindu tourists that killed 26 people in Indian Kashmir last month. According to Islamabad, none of the targets hit were militant camps, and the toll is 26 civilians killed and 46 injured. Yesterday afternoon, seven Pakistani army soldiers were killed when their vehicle was deliberately struck by an improvised explosive device in the province of Balochistan. The military attributed the attack to the Baloch Liberation Army, claiming it too is connected to the Indian enemy amid heightened tensions. The BLA is the strongest among a number of insurgent groups operating in the area bordering Afghanistan and Iran.

MYANMAR

Myanmars junta has extended the temporary ceasefire  so far never respected, with repeated attacks even in earthquake-devastated areas  until May 31 to support reconstruction efforts. The March 28 earthquake killed at least 3,700 people and destroyed entire areas. In recent weeks, military aircraft and artillery have continued to strike rebel groups and civilians.

TURKEY

Popular support for Ekrem Imamoglu, the mayor of Istanbul whose arrest triggered the largest protests in the past decade, has increased compared to current president  and rival  Recep Tayyip Erdogan. This is according to two recent polls by the reputable Metropoll and Konda organizations, which show that since March 19, the day of his detention, support for the oppositions presidential candidate has risen. Imamoglu now leads Erdogan by a wide margin (46.7% to 39.3%) in a hypothetical two-man contest, although the election is scheduled for 2028.

SOUTH KOREA

The High Court has postponed the first hearing in the case involving an alleged offense committed by leading presidential candidate, liberal Lee Jae-myung, to June 18  two weeks after the scheduled election date. The judges wanted to ensure he could run freely, thus delaying the trial, originally set for May 15.

NEPAL

Nepal is among the countries where global climate inaction is most evident, with melting glaciers, irregular weather patterns, and increasing climate-induced disasters, including heavy rains, floods, and landslides. Despite contributing minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, it is among the hardest-hit nations. From mid-2018 to mid-2024, 32,375 incidents were recorded, with climate-related events accounting for 91.2% of them, resulting in 3,672 deaths, 446 missing persons, and another 11,752 injured.

THAILAND - LAOS

A rare armed clash in Laos, possibly linked to drug smuggling, has forced Thailand to close the popular mountain viewpoint of Phu Chi Fa, near the border. The area, in the northern province of Chiang Rai, is now off-limits to the public and the U.S. Embassy has issued a warning. Disturbances in Laos are sporadic; the country is part of the Golden Triangle, which includes Myanmar and serves as a hub for Southeast Asia's drug trafficking.

RUSSIA - IRAN

The number of Iranian students in Russian universities has suddenly increased, with nearly 10,000 this year compared to 6,500 in 2023. All are bound by a ban on studying in Western countries, so they primarily enroll in medical faculties, even without speaking Russian, due to the severe shortage of healthcare workers in Iran.

UZBEKISTAN

In Uzbekistan, elections for the makhally (local councils) will take place throughout May and continue until July. Citizens will vote in over 9,500 cities and towns out of approximately 10,000 nationwide, across 14 regions and 208 provinces. The elections are supported by an intensive informational campaign about candidate lists, financed directly by the central government, with specific training courses for candidates.
by Vladimir Rozanskij

Along the banks of the Amur River and on Sakhalin Island, small ethnic groups have lived since time immemorial, braving extreme cold and remaining distant from modern-day Russia while preserving animist religious traditions. Documented by great 19th-century Russian explorers, today they are a small people of only a few hundred individuals who speak their own language. And they believe that even if they vanish, they will reunite with the cycles of nature.

Moscow (AsiaNews)  The website Sibir.Realii continues its project Takie malye narody (Such Small Peoples), which tells the stories of the "aborigines" of Siberia and the Russian Far East, stretching to the Pacific coasts and islands. Along the banks of the Amur Rivermarking the border between Russia and Chinaand on the vast island of Sakhalin at the rivers mouth, small ethnic groups have lived since ancient times. Known by various names, from the Manchus to the Gilyaks (a term roughly derived from boats), they remain culturally distinct.

Another general name is Nivkh, from the word nivk, meaning man. They were first encountered by Russian explorer Vasily Poyarkov in 1644 as he descended the Amur to its outlet into the ocean. One of the first ethnographic descriptions was published in 1849 by Captain Gennady Nevelskoy, who confirmed that Sakhalin was indeed an island and that the Amurs mouth was navigable. He wrote that the Gilyaks are at an incredible distance from any form of civilization, and that they have no fighting spirit. They lived in tribal groups ranging from 15 to 200 people, residing in yurts, large nomadic tents or huts, where warm sleeping bunks are arranged along the inner walls, heated by pipes from the fireplaces.

The staple food of this population has always been sun-dried fish, called jukola, which Nevelskoy described as salmon or flounder. They also hunted large marine fish and predators, and, when necessary, ate dog meat. Any travelereven a complete strangercould find hospitality in a Nivkh dwelling, provided they respected family customs: not lying with their head toward the wall in the sleeping bunk, and not taking fire outside the yurt. Violators were expelled and would find no welcome elsewhere, as explorer Vladimir Arsenyev describedcalling this system a kind of primordial communism.

After observing Russians dig up and eat potatoes without dying, the Gilyaks began cultivating land as well. Russian writer Ivan Goncharov visited the region in 1854 and wrote: they live even in -40 degrees under dry wood bushes, even mothers nursing infants. If they wish, they light a firetheres plenty of forest here they eat pink salmon and wild garlic, but they are few, and around them lies an infinite emptiness.

Anton Chekhov's famous 1890 journey, documented in his book Sakhalin Island, recounts how the Gilyaks were pushed onto mainland territory under pressure from the Japanesedisputes over islands in these latitudes between Russia and Japan remain unresolved. According to the great playwright, the Gilyaks belong neither to the Mongol nor Tungusic ethnicity, but are a unique and unknown people who perhaps once dominated all of Asia. Scholars still debate the true origins of the Nivkh.

Today, this curious little people is reduced to just a few hundred individuals who maintain animist religious traditions, devoting reverence to all that nature offers: water, earth, plants, and more. They do not follow an official shamanic practiceturning to sorcerers or seers only in cases of serious illness, accidents, or famine. For this reason, they were not deeply affected by Soviet atheist propaganda, nor are they particularly receptive to the Orthodox religious outreach of modern Russia.

As told by Vladimir Sangi, the last writer and cultural representative of the Gilyaks: The Nivkh believes that in times of need, one can transform into a bird, a fish, or a beast of the forest. And if today he is considered a member of a vanishing people, whose language is no longer spoken by anyone, he does not worry too muchbecause he knows he can blend with nature and speak all the languages of the creatures that inhabit it.
Champion local news.

Join our community of readers who value daily beat reporting and in-depth stories alike. Your membership allows us to continue the legacy of local, independent journalism in the Roaring Fork Valley. With your support, we can remain a free and accessible source of news for everyone, always without paywalls or corporate influence. Together, we can ensure that vital local stories are told.
Anna Grigorian, a parliament deputy from the opposition Hayastan alliance, said none of those Pashinian allies has been prosecuted as a result of those reports.

You don't have the political will to hold your own team accountable, she charged during the Armenian governments question-and-answer session in the National Assembly.

In Armenia, the media is not the judicial authority, replied Pashinian. Armenia has a judicial authority. If we had acted on media articles, we would have hanged you and expelled you from Armenia altogether.

And what do media write about you? he went on, losing his temper. Why are you free at all? They write that you are foreign spies. Why are you in this hall in the first place? If I am guided by media reports, I will have to throw all of you into the NSS (National Security Service) basement.

You must be the first to go [to the NSS prison] and you will go, Pashinian told one of the Hayastan lawmakers who shouted back at him. So sit down and shut up and stop getting on my nerves.

We will go after you based on media reports, Pashinian pledged in an ensuing shouting match that led parliament speaker Alen Simonian to interrupt the session.

Bring it on, said Hayastans Artur Khachatrian.

Why are you so nervous about corruption? another Hayastan lawmaker, Kristine Vartanian, told Pashinian for her part.

Simonian, who is a leading member of the ruling Civil Contract party, accused Vartanian of being disrespectful towards the prime minister and repeatedly threatened to throw you out of this hall.

Behave yourself, Vartanian shot back. What are you talking about? Who do you think you are?

Pashinian has repeatedly had such outbursts on the parliament floor in recent years. In March this year, he threatened to throw against the wall and trample underfoot Armenias three former presidents if they dont stop blaming him for the fall of Nagorno-Karabakh. One of the ex-presidents, Robert Kocharian, is Hayastans top leader.

Pashinian has repeatedly claimed to have eliminated systemic corruption in Armenia since coming to power in 2018. However, members of his entourage are increasingly accused by media of using their positions to enrich themselves, their families or cronies.
7 May 2025 08:30 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

As global agricultural systems face mounting pressure from climate change, population growth, and resource scarcity, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into farming practices is no longer a futuristic concept - it is an urgent necessity. Countries around the world are embracing AI-driven solutions to improve food security, optimize production, and increase resilience across the agricultural value chain. In this context, Azerbaijan is beginning to prioritize the development and deployment of AI in agriculture as part of its broader strategy for economic modernization and technological advancement.

Artificial intelligence offers tools that can transform traditional agriculture into a high-tech, data-driven industry. From predictive analytics and precision farming to automated disease detection and intelligent irrigation, AI has the potential to address long-standing inefficiencies and improve sustainability outcomes.

The Azerbaijani Ministry of Agriculture has announced that AI integration will be one of its primary focus areas in 2025. The ministrys current efforts highlight a strategic goal: to create meaningful collaboration between students studying AI and the country's growing network of agro-industrial enterprises.

After years of fragmented research and development, it has become clear that a gap exists between academic knowledge and commercial application. In response, the ministry aims to foster synergy between university researchers and large agroparks, with the goal of producing scalable, locally relevant AI applications that can be implemented directly in the field.

This push reflects a growing awareness that AI is not just a technology - it is a strategic tool for national competitiveness.

AI, by design, imitates human reasoning and learns from data to perform complex tasks - making it uniquely suited to agricultures unpredictability. In Azerbaijan, the use of AI in key areas such as plant protection, yield forecasting, and resource management can yield measurable gains.

For example:

- Computer vision systems can identify plant diseases at early stages.

- Machine learning models can optimize fertilizer and water use.

- AI-based spraying systems can distinguish between crops and weeds, reducing herbicide use and improving environmental outcomes.

These innovations are not just experimental - they are already proving effective in international markets. Applying them domestically could significantly boost Azerbaijans agricultural productivity while supporting sustainability goals.

Despite the clear potential, the widespread implementation of AI in Azerbaijans agro-industrial sector is constrained by several factors:

- Incomplete data infrastructure: AI relies on high-quality, structured data. At present, Azerbaijan lacks comprehensive agricultural datasets, particularly for modern farming methods like vertical farming and precision agriculture.

- Skills mismatch: There is insufficient coordination between AI education programs and industry needs, creating a talent gap.

- Institutional resistance: Some stakeholders are hesitant to adopt new systems that may disrupt established processes.

- Uncertain ROI: Many agribusinesses are reluctant to invest in AI due to the difficulty of quantifying its short-term financial benefits.

Overcoming these challenges will require a coordinated public-private effort, along with targeted investment in infrastructure, education, and regulatory frameworks.

AI as a business asset in agriculture

As AI emerges as the third major technological wave, following business process standardization and automation, it is increasingly viewed as a core business asset, not a peripheral tool.

In agriculture, AI can enhance customer interaction through:

- Chatbots that provide real-time support to farmers and customers via natural language processing.

- Centralized cloud platforms that store and analyze agricultural data, identifying patterns and anomalies.

- Data visualization tools that help farm managers make informed decisions based on real-time insights.

However, all of this depends on foundational technologies such asbroadband access, cloud computing, big data capabilities, and IoT (Internet of Things) infrastructure - areas where Azerbaijan must continue to invest.

Although sectors like healthcare, finance, and transport are currently leading in AI adoption, agriculture - especially agro-processing - is quickly emerging as a high-potential frontier. Experts argue that expanding AIs role in agriculture could yield outsized benefits in food production, economic diversification, and environmental management.

For Azerbaijan, this means rethinking agricultural development not just in terms of yields and exports, but also in terms of data readiness, innovation capacity, and cross-sectoral integration. The convergence of AI with other digital technologies - such as cloud services, broadband internet, and the Internet of Things - can transform conventional farming into an intelligent, interconnected ecosystem.

If implemented effectively, AI can help Azerbaijan not only modernize its agricultural sector but also become a regional leader in smart farming technologies.
7 May 2025 14:15 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

The news from South Asia makes hearts jump into throats. Last night, India fired missiles across the border into Pakistani-controlled territory, leaving several dead  including one child  and many more wounded.

Condemning Indias attack, Pakistans Foreign Ministry noted that strikes were carried out in Muridke, Sialkot, and Bahawalpur, as well as across the Line of Control in Kotli and Muzaffarabad, in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

For its part, Indias Defense Ministry confirmed the strikes and stated that at least nine sites were targeted where terrorist attacks against India have been planned. The ministry added that the operation was focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities were targeted, it claimed.

However, international media outlets on the groundalong with footage and photos circulated by local residents on social medialend credibility to claims that India's Defense Ministry is merely paying lip service. The images and videos provide evidence that civilian targets were struck, including mosques and schools.

India's recent aggression brings to mind Iran's missile attacks on Pakistan's Balochistan in January 2024, made under a similar pretext. As is known, Islamabad did not take long to respond at the time, launching retaliatory strikes on Iranian territory shortly thereafter. Given Pakistan's history of swift retaliation, the possibility of another military response raises fears of a full-scale war between the two nuclear powerssending chills down the spines of many around the world. The news from India confirms that the fears are not vain. Thus, it is reported that India closed its air space for flights and many international airlines cancelled their flights to the country.

Speaking to Azernews, political analyst Imran Khalid, who is in Pakistan now  emphasized that the prevailing mood in Pakistan is a mixture of defiance, sorrow, and national unity in the face of what is widely viewed as unprovoked Indian aggression. He pointed out that the public sentiment is running high, with complete confidence in the capabilities of the Pakistans armed forces to deliver an appropriate response to Indias unprovoked aggression - especially in the absence of any credible evidence a linking Pakistan to recent acts of terrorism in India.

The public response is being shaped by both the tragic human cost of the strikes - 26 civilians killed and dozens wounded - and a sense of national vindication following the downing of five Indian jets. Government statements, particularly from Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and the militarys ISPR, have sought to galvanize public morale, emphasizing Pakistan's swift and precise retaliation as evidence of military competence and strategic resolve. Amid the heightened tensions, schools have been closed and flights grounded, but there is little indication of panic - only steely resolve. Public discourse, amplified by state media, centers around honor, defense of sovereignty, and the unjust targeting of civilians, including children and mosques. The collective sentiment appears to be one of wounded pride channeled into resolute patriotism, with calls for continued vigilance against future provocations, he added.

Imran Khalid is sure that Indias aggressive posture appears deeply intertwined with Prime Minister Narendra Modis domestic political calculus. He reminded that historically, Modi has not shied away from invoking cross-border tensions to galvanize nationalist sentiment during election cycles - most notably in the aftermath of the Pulwama-Balakot episode in 2019.

Modis ongoing campaign in Bihar is no exception. With rising discontent over economic stagnation, unemployment, and communal tensions, Modis government seems to be returning to a well-worn playbook: manufacturing external threats to unify the electorate under the banner of national security. The April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 tourists, provided a pretext for Operation Sindoor, launched without a credible investigation. By opting for high-visibility strikes and deploying newly acquired Rafale jets, Modi has signaled strength domestically while sidestepping accountability for intelligence lapses. The narrative of retaliatory justice plays well to his base, distracting from governance shortcomings and reframing the election as a referendum on patriotic resolve. Pakistans calls for a neutral probe into the Pahalgam incident were ignored, underscoring Indias prioritization of optics over diplomacy. This strategy, however, carries significant regional risks, as evidenced by the swift escalation and Pakistans equally forceful response, Pakistani political analyst said.

As for the full-scale war between the two nuclear power, Imran Khalid opined that the immediate future hinges precariously on whether New Delhi and Islamabad can de-escalate through diplomatic backchannels or if nationalist fervor overrides strategic caution. With Pakistan claiming the downing of five Indian jets and India remaining publicly silent on the losses, both countries now stand at a dangerous inflection point.

However, the Modi administration, mid-campaign and under domestic pressure, may find it politically unpalatable to back down without some symbolic restitution. Meanwhile, Pakistans leadership, having scored a tactical military success, is signaling readiness for further action if provoked again. The summoning of Pakistans National Security Committee and heightened alert across civilian sectors point to the seriousness of the moment. International actors -including the UN, China, and even the U.S. - are calling for restraint. In the best-case scenario, shuttle diplomacy or third-party mediation could forestall a deeper conflict. But with both nuclear-armed neighbors entrenched in nationalist narratives and public opinion inflamed, the risk of further escalation cannot be dismissed. A misstep - accidental or deliberate - could shift this crisis into far graver territory, Imran Khalid concluded.
7 May 2025 17:54 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

In a world shaped by the ashes of World War II, the line between memory and manipulation grows increasingly thin. For nations that stood against fascism, the fight was more than geopoliticalit was existential. Azerbaijan, a then-Soviet republic, was one such nation whose contributions to the victory over fascism remain both underrepresented and underappreciated. In stark contrast, neighboring Armenia has, disturbingly, moved in the opposite direction, whitewashing the legacy of Nazi collaborators and erecting monuments to their memory.

Azerbaijans role in the defeat of fascism was not symbolic. It was visceral, costly, and heroic. More than 600,000 Azerbaijani soldiers were mobilized to fight against Nazi Germany. Of them, over 300,000 never returned home. These werent mere numbersthey were fathers, sons, and brothers who perished on the blood-soaked battlefields of Eastern Europe. Azerbaijans sacrifices were not limited to manpower. Soviet Azerbaijan provided 7580% of the fuel consumed by the Red Army. The oil fields of Baku quite literally powered the Soviet war machine, and by extension, the Allied cause. More than 130 military formations were raised in Azerbaijan, with 123 receiving honorary titles for bravery. Industrial plants in Baku operated around the clock, and ordinary citizens donated over 70 million rubles to the Soviet war effort, a staggering contribution from a nation already drained by the demands of war.

While Azerbaijan bled to resist fascism, a very different story was unfolding across the border. Tens of thousands of Armenians fought under the banner of Nazi Germany, notably in the Armenian Legion commanded by General Drastamat Kanayan, also known as Dro, and his associate Garegin Ter-Arutyunyaninfamously known as Garegin Nzhdeh. Nzhdeh did not merely collaborate with the Nazis; he actively supported their ideology, fighting against Soviet forces in the Balkans and aligning himself with Hitler's regime in the hope of creating a fascist Armenian state.

This fascist chapter of Armenian history has not been buried in shame, it has been resurrected. The seeds of Armenias fascist policy against its neighbours, sown by Garegin Nzhdeh, bore fruit in 1988, on the brink of the Soviet Unions collapse. This is not a trivial matter of conflicting historical narratives. The glorification of fascist collaborators in Armenia reflects a broader political culture that has, over decades, flirted with ultranationalism and racial exclusivity. As the Soviet Union neared collapse, Armenia witnessed the rise of figures with fascist leanings. These ideologues laid the groundwork for policies that marginalised ethnic minorities and romanticised Armenias fascist past, embedding it into the nations political fabric.

Under the guise of reunification, Armenian nationalists launched a campaign to annexe Garabagh, triggering mass expulsions of Azerbaijanis from both Armenia and Karabakh. But the purge extended beyond AzerbaijanisKurds, Meskhetians, and Molokans were also uprooted from their ancestral lands, echoing the ethnic cleansing tactics employed by Nazi Germany in occupied territories. The atrocities committed in Khojaly in 1992, where 613 civiliansmany women, children, and the elderlywere brutally massacred, bore chilling resemblance to Nazi massacres in WWII. The strategic targeting of entire communities, not for military reasons but for ethnic erasure, exposes a grim continuity between the ideology Armenia glorifies in figures like Nzhdeh and the wartime horrors the world once vowed never to repeat. Such acts demand global recognition, not diplomatic evasion.

Going further, in 2016, Armenian authorities unveiled a statue of Nzhdeh in the center of Yerevan, elevating a Nazi collaborator to the status of national hero. This move drew sharp criticism not only from the CIS countries and war veterans but also throughout the world. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev also touched on the issue and noted:

We, the heads of state, have repeatedly spoken out against the glorification of fascists. Unfortunately, such cases occur in the CIS area, especially in Armenia. The former government there erected a statue in central Yerevan to Garegin Ter-Arutyunyan, known as Garegin Nzhdeha fascist executioner and traitor who served the German fascists. A large group of war veterans from CIS countries has repeatedly protested this shameless act by Armenias former leadership, President Aliyev stated.

The long-term consequences of this ideological drift became visible during the 2020 Second Garabagh War. That conflict was not only about reclaiming illegally occupied territories, it was also about confronting the ideological descendants of Nzhdeh and Dro. In liberating its lands from Armenian occupation, Azerbaijan delivered a modern-day verdict on fascist revisionism. It was a victory not just of arms, but of historical justice.

Yet, while the world once united in condemning fascism at Nuremberg, today it remains oddly silent about its glorification in Armenia. Western institutions that champion human rights and memory culture have, in many cases, turned a blind eye to Yerevans rehabilitation of Nazi-aligned figures. Why is a world that rightly supported the Nuremberg Trials so hesitant to speak out against a statue of a Nazi collaborator in downtown Yerevan? Is the geography of the crime now more important than its nature?

There is an unsettling hypocrisy at play. Azerbaijans efforts to spotlight Armenias fascist flirtations are often dismissed, while Armenias offensive distortion of history receives little more than a diplomatic shrug.

History does not forget, but people do. That is why it is crucial to remind the world of Azerbaijans legitimate and valorous place in the history of the fight against fascism. It is equally important to call out the glorification of those who fought for Hitler, regardless of modern political convenience.

The memory of World War II must not be treated as a toolkit to be bent toward nationalist ends. It must be preserved with integrity. Azerbaijan has upheld that integrity, both through its wartime sacrifices and its postwar moral stance. Armenia, by contrast, has chosen to venerate traitors and whitewash atrocities.

In todays geopolitical landscape, standing against fascism is not only about remembering the pastit is also about shaping the future. Azerbaijan has done both. The world should recognise that, and hold to account those who betray the values of 1945.
7 May 2025 13:00 (UTC+04:00)

Full digital access to all news for 1 year

Full digital access to all news for 6 months

Full digital access to all news for 3 months

Full digital access to all news for 1 month

Find the plan that suits you best.

Compared to the same period last year, the import of butter from Russia has decreased significantly. The quantity dropped by 19.65 tons (57.1 times), and the value decreased by 75,500 USD (19.4 times).

Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention.

Choose to support open, independent, quality journalism and subscribe on a monthly basis.

By subscribing to our online newspaper, you can have full digital access to all news, analysis, and much more.

Subscribe

You can also follow AzerNEWS on Twitter @AzerNewsAz or Facebook @AzerNewsNewspaper

Thank you!
7 May 2025 14:55 (UTC+04:00)

Full digital access to all news for 1 year

Full digital access to all news for 6 months

Full digital access to all news for 3 months

Full digital access to all news for 1 month

Find the plan that suits you best.

In the first two months of this year, Azerbaijan imported 7.55 tons of natural honey from Turkiye, worth 20,900 USD, Azernews reports, citing the State Statistical Committee.

Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention.

Choose to support open, independent, quality journalism and subscribe on a monthly basis.

By subscribing to our online newspaper, you can have full digital access to all news, analysis, and much more.

Subscribe

You can also follow AzerNEWS on Twitter @AzerNewsAz or Facebook @AzerNewsNewspaper

Thank you!
7 May 2025 14:38 (UTC+04:00)

Full digital access to all news for 1 year

Full digital access to all news for 6 months

Full digital access to all news for 3 months

Full digital access to all news for 1 month

Find the plan that suits you best.

In January-February of this year, Azerbaijan exported 10 tons of iodine to India, Azernews reports, citing the State Statistical Committee.

Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention.

Choose to support open, independent, quality journalism and subscribe on a monthly basis.

By subscribing to our online newspaper, you can have full digital access to all news, analysis, and much more.

Subscribe

You can also follow AzerNEWS on Twitter @AzerNewsAz or Facebook @AzerNewsNewspaper

Thank you!
7 May 2025 19:20 (UTC+04:00)

Azercell Telecom and the ADA University Foundation recently convened the "TechFront: Exploring the Frontiers of Technology" forum, a collaborative initiative designed to foster synergy between academic research and practical innovation. The event also served as a dynamic platform for dialogue on emerging AI trends, software engineering, and cybersecurity. The forum successfully facilitated meaningful engagement between tech professionals and aspiring startup teams.

A panel discussion titled Risks and Safety Measures: How Can We Protect the Future? featured Elnur Guluzade, Data Security and Incident Management unit head, and Samir Fataliev, Security Operations Center unit head at Azercell. The experts highlighted the importance of cultivating a robust digital security culture, strengthening the resilience of information systems, and implementing proactive measures to counter cyber threats.

In the session Looking Ahead: What Does the Future Hold? Azercells Data Science senior specialist Suleyman Suleymanzade and Senior Mlops specialist Elkhan Alizade offered insights into the ethical considerations and practical applications of AI, discussing its potential social and economic impacts.

Faculty members from ADA University and George Washington University also contributed to the forum with thought-provoking presentations. In addition, student-led startup teams showcased their innovative projects. The event concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing excellence in two categories: Best Startup and Best Question, as selected by a panel of judges.
7 May 2025 16:17 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

This year marks the 145th anniversary of the birth of Azim Azimzade, a pioneer who left an indelible mark on Azerbaijani art, Azernews reports.

Known as the founder of Azerbaijani caricature and honored with the title of People's Artist, Azimzade opened an entirely new path in national paintingone where satire, social justice, and visual storytelling came together with bold clarity.

Born on May 7, 1880, in the village of Novkhani near Baku, Azimzade faced early opposition to his artistic pursuits. Despite his father's resistance, he managed to receive a primary education at a Russian-Tatar schoola decision that would later influence his worldview and artistic voice.

Azimzade's work was deeply rooted in two rich artistic traditions: the Tabriz miniature school and the Russian painting school. But his unique genius was in using those influences to develop a distinctly Azerbaijani form of satirical art. His career began to gain traction in the early 20th century, with his cartoons and illustrations appearing in the revolutionary satirical magazine Molla Nasreddin, starting in 1906. His sharp wit and keen eye for social commentary soon earned him recognition as the founder of Azerbaijani satirical graphics.

His art tackled themes often overlooked or ignored: social inequality, outdated customs, and the daily struggles of ordinary people. Through works like Dog Fight, A Man Beats His Wife, A Wedding in the Rich House, A Fight on the Water, and Old Baku Residents, Azimzade exposed the injustices of his time. He criticized violence against women, class disparity, and the hypocrisy of the elitenot with rage, but with satire that was sometimes biting, sometimes softly sarcastic, but always thought-provoking.

Azimzade also made significant contributions to Azerbaijani book illustration. His 1914 illustrations for Hophopname, the famous satirical poem by Mirza Alakbar Sabir, laid the groundwork for book graphics in Azerbaijan. Beyond illustration, he also brought innovation to theatrical design, creating costume and stage sketches that breathed new life into the visual culture of Azerbaijani theater.

His first solo exhibition, held in 1940 in Baku, showcased over 1,200 worksan astonishing number that reflected the breadth and depth of his career. During his lifetime, his works were displayed not only in Azerbaijan but also in museums abroad, attesting to his international appeal.

From 1920 until his death in 1943, Azimzade dedicated himself to nurturing future artists at the Azerbaijan Art College, serving as a teacher and director. His impact on the next generation was just as profound as his arthis legacy lives on not just in galleries but also in classrooms.

Azim Azimzade passed away in Baku on May 15, 1943, but his influence remains deeply woven into the fabric of Azerbaijani art. The Azerbaijan State Art School bears his name, a street in Baku honors his legacy, and his house has been turned into a museum where visitors can connect with the life and work of this extraordinary artist.

Today, as a new generation of Azerbaijani artists draws inspiration from his fearless approach to art and truth, Azim Azimzade's name continues to resonatean enduring symbol of artistic courage and social conscience.
7 May 2025 17:14 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

A round table discussion on the topic "Teacher Quality in Music and Art Schools" has taken place at Azerbaijan State Academic Philharmonic Hall, Azernews reports.

The event, organized by the Ministry of Culture, was attended by Minister Adil Karimli, Chairman of the Culture Committee of the Azerbaijani Parliament Polad Bulbuloglu, Chairman of the Science and Education Committee Anar Isgandarov, Chairwoman of the Family, Women and Children Affairs Committee Hijran Huseynova, Rector of the Baku Music Academy (BMA), Rector of the Azerbaijan State University of Culture and Arts (ASUCA) Jeyran Mahmudova, renowned cultural figures, education experts, heads of media organizations, and other individuals.

Greeting the event participants, Adil Karimli stated that the development of all areas of culture, including arts education, is kept in focus by President Ilham Aliyev and First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva. He said that in accordance with the instructions of the head of state, relevant steps are being taken by the Ministry of Culture to organize artistic education at the level of modern requirements.

The admission of students to music and art schools and centers has been fully electronicized. In addition, the recruitment of teachers, as well as directors and deputy directors, is also carried out in a centralized manner  in two stages, including a competition and an interview.

Adil Karimli noted that attestation is being conducted based on the requirements of labor legislation to assess the professional knowledge, skills, and competencies of educators working in music and art schools within the system of the Ministry of Culture. He stated that the attestation organized for piano and music theory covering the Baku and Absheron-Khizi regions has revealed the necessity for a serious analysis of the situation in this field.

Then, the advisor to the Culture Minister Jasarat Valehov, provided detailed information about the results of the teacher attestation through a slide presentation. It was stated that in the attestation process of music and art school teachers, 112 teachers who were evaluated by the attestation commission with 3 votes against and 2 votes in favor, respectively, were involved in training in relevant specialties.

The training sessions are organized by the Scientific-Methodical and Professional Development Center for Culture of the Ministry of Culture. After the training, which will be held for a period of two months, these individuals can work in schools again by achieving successful results in the teacher recruitment test exam and interview stages.

Rector of Baku Music Academy Farhad Badalbayli, Chairmen of the Culture Committee of the Azerbaijani Parliament Polad Bulbuloglu, Anar Isgandarov and Hijran Huseynova, Rector of the Azerbaijan State University of Culture and Arts (ASUCA) Jeyran Mahmudova, Rector of the Azerbaijan National Conservatory Kamila Dadashzadeh, Vice-Rector of the Azerbaijan State Academy of Fine Arts Fuad Salayev, Professors of Baku Music Academy Nazakat Rimazi, Konul Huseynova, Dean of Garabagh University, composer Turkar Gasimzadeh, and others spoke, emphasizing the importance of the reforms implemented by the Azerbaijan Culure Ministry.

The event then continued in a discussion format. Experts who chaired the attestation commissions shared their opinions about the process, stating that the knowledge and skills of some educators caused them to feel regret.

During the round table, speeches were heard about the current state of arts education and the work being done in this field, and suggestions were made.
6 May 2025 22:59 (UTC+04:00)

At Fuzuli International Airport, Prime Minister Aleksandr Turchin was seen off by the Prime Minister of Azerbaijan, Ali Asadov.

On May 6, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Belarus, Aleksandr Turchin, completed his official visit to Azerbaijan.

Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention.

Choose to support open, independent, quality journalism and subscribe on a monthly basis.

By subscribing to our online newspaper, you can have full digital access to all news, analysis, and much more.

Subscribe

You can also follow AzerNEWS on Twitter @AzerNewsAz or Facebook @AzerNewsNewspaper

Thank you!
7 May 2025 09:30 (UTC+04:00)

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the visit will include a meeting between Minister Bayramov and Iraqs Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Fuad Hussein. Several other high-level bilateral meetings are also scheduled to take place during the visit.

On May 7, 2025, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov, embarked on an official visit to the Republic of Iraq.

Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention.

Choose to support open, independent, quality journalism and subscribe on a monthly basis.

By subscribing to our online newspaper, you can have full digital access to all news, analysis, and much more.

Subscribe

You can also follow AzerNEWS on Twitter @AzerNewsAz or Facebook @AzerNewsNewspaper

Thank you!
7 May 2025 11:02 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

The Republic of Azerbaijan has expressed its concern over the increasing tensions between the Republic of India and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

Azernews reports, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement addressing the rising tensions between the two countries.

"We condemn the military attacks on the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, which have resulted in the deaths and injuries of several civilians. In solidarity with the people of Pakistan, we extend our condolences to the families of the innocent victims and wish a speedy recovery to the injured," the statement reads.

"We call on all parties to exercise restraint and resolve the conflict through diplomatic means," the statement concludes.
Trade fair sees surge in buyers, intended orders

08:28, May 07, 2025 By Qiu Quanlin ( Chinadaily.com.cn

A Turkish exhibitor prepares food for visitors at the 137th China Import and Export Fair, or the Canton Fair, in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, on Friday. The spring edition of the biannual event attracted over 288,900 overseas buyers. (Chen Jimin/China News Service)

Emerging markets remained the largest source of overseas buyers at the 137th China Import and Export Fair, popularly known as the Canton Fair, according to the fair's organizers.

Additionally, businesses involving countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative served as a crucial driver for transaction growth during the spring session of the fair, which concluded on Monday in Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong province.

"The number of foreign buyers attending the fair's spring session has reached a new high, with on-site intentions for export deals continuing to grow and the new momentum in foreign trade accelerating," said Zhou Shanqing, deputy director of the China Foreign Trade Center and head of the fair's media center.

The fair, commonly seen as a barometer of China's foreign trade, is held twice a year, in spring and autumn, in Guangzhou.

As of Sunday, a total of 288,938 overseas buyers from 219 countries and regions had attended the event, representing a 17.3 percent increase compared with the fair's 135th session, held in the spring of 2024, according to the organizers.

Of the total, 187,450 buyers, or 64.9 percent, were from countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, marking a 17.4 percent increase compared with the 135th session.

The number of buyers from BRICS countries and member states of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership also increased significantly, showing a growth of 24.1 percent and 6.9 percent, respectively. The number of buyers from Europe and the United States reached 51,862, a growth of 3.4 percent year-on-year, according to the organizers.

"Overseas buyers showed a strong interest in placing orders, further boosting companies' confidence in expanding into diversified markets," said Zhou.

Furthermore, the on-site intention turnover during the fair amounted to $25.44 billion, marking a 3 percent increase compared with the fair's 135th session.

Transactions with countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative accounted for over 60 percent of the total turnover, playing an important role in driving the transaction growth, while transactions with traditional markets remained stable, according to Zhou.

"Exhibiting companies commonly reported that products with good quality, strong innovation features, and high brand recognition were more favored by overseas buyers," said Zhou.

A large number of new products, new technologies, new designs, new materials, and new industrial processes were displayed during the fair, with a strong focus on green, low-carbon, and intelligent products.

"Innovations have become powerful drivers for Chinese companies to generate orders and expand overseas markets," said Zhou.

Among the highlights was the newly established service robot zone, where 46 leading robotics companies exhibited over 500 types of service robots in 60 different subfields.

"It was our first time participating in the Canton Fair, and it has far exceeded our expectations, surpassing the results of any domestic or international exhibition," said Wang Guanghui, head of the marketing department of Shenzhen Kilox Technology.

The company, one of the leading robotics companies based in Shen-zhen, Guangdong, attracted interest during the fair from over a dozen potential clients, with intended orders totaling over $20 million, according to Wang.

"We are eagerly looking forward to collaborating with clients from the Middle East and showcasing our products and technologies at the World Expo 2030 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia," said Wang.

Overseas buyers not only have high expectations for made-in-China products, but also hope to deepen cooperation through technology collaboration, investment, and other means, according to the fair's organizers.

Li Weibin, an international marketing manager for Guangzhou Conwide Technology, said, "Our coffee machine is equipped with a unique self-developed system that not only reduces the failure rate, but also automatically cleans the filter mesh after each use, preventing coffee residue and ensuring the taste as well as reducing issues like mold and pests."

Coffee machine brands from countries like Germany have shown a strong interest in the company's technology and are looking to collaborate on joint product development, according to Li.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
7 May 2025 15:25 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

A high-level Hungarian military delegation led by Professor, General Gabor Borondi, Chief of the General Staff of the Hungarian Defence Forces, paid an official visit to Azerbaijan and toured several of the countrys advanced military installations, Azernews reports, citing a statement from Azerbaijans Defense Ministry.

The Ministry noted that the delegation visited the Air Force Central Command Post, the Cybersecurity Center, and one of the commando military units.

The visit began at the Central Command Post of the Azerbaijani Air Force, where the guests were received by Deputy Minister of Defense and Commander of the Air Force, Colonel-General Ramiz Tahirov (Note: original says Namiq Islamzad, retain as is if correct). He briefed the delegation on the structure and operations of the command post, which is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and adheres to modern military standards. The visitors were given a detailed presentation on Azerbaijans airspace monitoring capabilities, flight coordination systems, and decision-making processes at the command level.

The delegation then proceeded to the Cybersecurity Center, where they were introduced to the Azerbaijani Armed Forces efforts to protect its modern weapons systems and information technology infrastructure against cyber threats. Officials provided insights into artificial intelligence-based cyber defense tools used to counter contemporary cyber challenges. The guests also toured the centers facilities and gained firsthand knowledge of the operational environment.

Later in the visit, both countries Chiefs of General Staff visited one of Azerbaijans elite commando units. They observed a demonstration of mountain warfare and reconnaissance training exercises conducted by Azerbaijani troops. The delegation also toured an exhibition featuring military hardware, weaponry, equipment, and tactical systems currently in service with the Azerbaijani Army. Military personnel provided detailed explanations of the technical specifications and proper usage of the showcased assets.

This official visit highlights the growing defense cooperation between Azerbaijan and Hungary and underscores both nations interest in knowledge exchange and security collaboration.
7 May 2025 16:38 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

Azerbaijan has announced the provision of scholarships and grants for Iraqi students, as well as representatives from other member countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Azernews reports, citing Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister, Ceyhun Bayramov, as he said during a press conference in Baghdad on May 7, held alongside his Iraqi counterpart, Fuad Hussein.

According to Bayramov, the two countries are aiming to expand their cooperation in several key areas, with education being one of the primary focuses.

"Additionally, during our discussions today, we highlighted the importance of expanding ties between our citizens," Bayramov stated.

He emphasized the significant role that student exchange programs and educational missions play in deepening bilateral relations between the two nations. Bayramov also underscored initiatives aimed at promoting mutual visits and enhancing trade relations between Azerbaijan and Iraq.
6 May 2025 18:45 (UTC+04:00)

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev gave an interview to the Vietnam News Agency of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Azernews presents the interview via Azertag:

- On May 7-8, 2025, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam will pay a state visit to the Republic of Azerbaijan. How would you assess the current state of bilateral relations and cooperation between our countries?

- First of all, I would like to note that Azerbaijan and Vietnam enjoy friendly relations, which have a history of more than half a century. In particular, in 1959, President of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam Ho Chi Minh visited the Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic. In 1983, National Leader of Azerbaijan Heydar Aliyev, who was First Deputy Chairman of the USSR Council of Ministers at the time, traveled to Vietnam. Undoubtedly, these landmark visits laid a solid foundation for the development of cooperation between our countries.

My state visit to your country in 2014 and the official visit of the President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Mr. Truong Tan Sang, to the Republic of Azerbaijan in 2015 opened a new chapter in the relations between our states and gave impetus to their further development. Within the framework of President Truong Tan Sang's visit to Azerbaijan, the first Azerbaijan-Vietnam business forum was held, which, along with government officials, was joined by representatives of business circles from oil and gas, energy, construction, information and communication, financial, industrial, trade, tourism, transportation, pharmaceutical and other spheres.

The Azerbaijan-Vietnam Intergovernmental Commission on Economic, Trade, Scientific and Technical Cooperation was established to develop cooperation in various fields and identify new areas of interaction. The Commission serves as an important platform for regular dialogue and effective realization of joint initiatives.

Political consultations are held through the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, the last of which took place in the latter half of April this year. The parliaments of both countries have working groups on interparliamentary relations.

Our countries effectively cooperate within the framework of major international organizations, including the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and the UN.

Azerbaijan attaches great importance to the development of economic and trade ties with Vietnam. In 2024, the volume of trade between our two countries amounted to 223.93 million USD. There is no doubt that we have the potential to further increase this indicator.

Our countries also cooperate in the oil sector. In 2019, an agreement was signed between the Vietnamese state-owned Binh Son Refining and Petrochemical Company and SOCAR. Our cooperation in the oil industry is based on a strong historical foundation  Azerbaijani specialists have played a key role in the development of Vietnam's oil industry. It is not by chance that the first general director of Vietsovpetro joint venture, established with the assistance of the Soviet Union in 1981, was Azerbaijani Jalal Mammadov.

Our cooperation in cultural, humanitarian and educational spheres dates back to the Soviet era and has been further bolstered in recent years. In 1955, Azerbaijani composer Gara Garayev wrote the Vietnam Suite for the first Soviet-Vietnamese documentary film about the Vietnam War, which premiered in Hanoi in 2023. In 1959-1962, at the invitation of President Ho Chi Minh and at the suggestion of the Soviet government, Azerbaijani director Ajdar Ibrahimov took an active part in the establishment of the Vietnamese film school, where he conducted master classes and made three films. In recognition of his services, he was awarded the highest order of labor of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

During the Soviet era, about 5,000 Vietnamese studied in Azerbaijan, many of whom currently hold senior positions in state institutions in Vietnam. During my visit to Hanoi in 2014, a meeting was held with Vietnamese alumni of Azerbaijani universities, and they spoke warmly about our country and their years in Azerbaijan. In 2015, the Vietnam-Azerbaijan Friendship Association was founded in Hanoi, bringing together Vietnamese alumni of Azerbaijani universities.

Speaking about the cultural ties between our countries, I would like to note that they continue to develop and strengthen through various initiatives and projects. For example, in 2024 Baku hosted the screening of the movie Legend Makers dedicated to the heroism of your soldiers during the Vietnam War. In the same year, the Days of Vietnam were held in our capital on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of Vietnamese leader Ho Chi Minh's visit to Azerbaijan.

The Heydar Aliyev Foundation is implementing projects in Vietnam, including the construction of an elementary school in Ha Giang Province in 2018. In April this year, Vice President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Leyla Aliyeva visited your country, where she met with Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan, the spouse of the General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam, Ngo Phuong Ly, representatives of the creative industry, heads of the Hanoi College of Commerce and Tourism, as well as alumni of Vietnamese universities who had also studied in Azerbaijan. During the meeting, a certificate of financial support from the Heydar Aliyev Foundation was presented to the Hanoi College of Commerce and Tourism.

Therefore, the relations between Azerbaijan and Vietnam are successfully developing in all key directions.

- What is the significance of the upcoming visit of the Vietnamese leader to Azerbaijan in the context of elevating bilateral relations to a new level?

- Mr. Lam's upcoming visit to Azerbaijan will be his first as General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam. This visit holds significant political importance, as it will emphasize the aspiration of the two countries to deepen bilateral relations and open new areas of interaction. In this context, the visit can be rightly regarded as an important milestone in the development of Azerbaijan-Vietnam cooperation.

The program of the visit includes a wide range of issues covering key aspects of the bilateral agenda. It will enable a comprehensive exchange of views on topical issues, harmonization of approaches and identification of promising areas for further interaction. Special attention will be paid to political dialogue, trade and economic ties, as well as humanitarian and cultural exchange.

In addition, special importance is attached to the development of inter-party dialogue. The cooperation between the New Azerbaijan Party and the Communist Party of Vietnam is registering positive dynamics, and the forthcoming visit will serve as an additional confirmation of the high level of cooperation on political and ideological basis.

I am convinced that Mr. Lam's visit will be an important impetus for our cooperation and open new horizons for the development of relations between Azerbaijan and Vietnam in the spirit of friendship and mutual respect.

- What are the prospects and potential for the further development of bilateral relations between Vietnam and Azerbaijan?

- I believe that our countries have every opportunity to further develop the potential for cooperation in a variety of areas. If we talk about trade and economic relations, there are ample opportunities for cooperation, which will not only stimulate economic growth but also create a sustainable basis for mutually beneficial partnerships, which, in turn, will contribute to further diversification of our economies.

One of the promising areas for the strengthening of ties between our countries is tourism. The establishment of direct flights between Baku and Vietnamese cities with parallel development of tourism programs will contribute to the interest of citizens of both countries in each other's culture and history. The intensified joint cultural projects, the development of humanitarian programs and joint initiatives in the field of healthcare and environment  all these spheres are of mutual interest for our countries.

And, of course, there is education. As always, we will welcome students from Vietnam. They can take advantage of educational programs offered by Azerbaijan within the framework of grants and scholarships for citizens of NAM member countries. This will improve opportunities for academic exchange, scientific research and interpersonal contacts between Azerbaijan and Vietnam. The implementation of exchange programs, as well as cooperation in science and technology, can become another promising area for the development of bilateral relations.
7 May 2025 18:15 (UTC+04:00)

A document exchange ceremony between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam was held on May 7, with the participation of President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam.

Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and To Lam, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, adopted a Joint Statement on the Establishment of a Strategic Partnership between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Minister of Energy of Azerbaijan Parviz Shahbazov and Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of Vietnam Nguyen Hoang Long exchanged the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on Cooperation in the Field of Energy.

Minister of Defense of Azerbaijan Zakir Hasanov and Minister of National Defense of Vietnam Phan Van Giang exchanged the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of National Defense of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on Cooperation in the Field of Defense.

Minister of Justice of Azerbaijan Farid Ahmadov and Minister of Justice of Vietnam Nguyen Hai Ninh exchanged the Cooperation Program between the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Justice of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam for the Period 2025  2027.

Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan Mikayil Jabbarov and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Petrovietnam Le Manh Hung exchanged the Memorandum of Understanding between the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR) and Vietnam National Industry  Energy Group (Petrovietnam).

Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan Mikayil Jabbarov and Chairman of the BSR Board of Directors Bui Ngoc Duong exchanged the Memorandum of Understanding between SOCAR Trading Singapore PTE LTD and Binh Son Refining and Petrochemical JSC.

Minister of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan Rashad Nabiyev and Minister of Science and Technology of Vietnam Nguyen Manh Hung exchanged the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Science and Technology of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in the Fields of Technology, Innovation, and Development.

Minister of Culture of Azerbaijan Adil Karimli and Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Vietnam Nguyen Van Hung exchanged the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Culture between the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Other signed documents included the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Archival Work between the National Archive Department of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the State Records and Archives Administration of Vietnam, the Cooperation Agreement between the Azerbaijan State News Agency and the Vietnam News Agency, and the Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of the Joint Business Council between the Small and Medium Business Development Agency (KOBIA) of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the National Association of Entrepreneurship (VINEN) of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.
7 May 2025 18:55 (UTC+04:00)

Your browser doesn't support video. Please download the file: video/mp4

On May 7, First Lady of the Republic of Azerbaijan Mehriban Aliyeva met with Ngo Phuong Ly, spouse of the General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention.

Choose to support open, independent, quality journalism and subscribe on a monthly basis.

By subscribing to our online newspaper, you can have full digital access to all news, analysis, and much more.

Subscribe

You can also follow AzerNEWS on Twitter @AzerNewsAz or Facebook @AzerNewsNewspaper

Thank you!
7 May 2025 09:00 (UTC+04:00)

By Alimat Aliyeva

Vietnam is considering expanding its presence in Kazakhstan's aviation sector through the potential acquisition or trust management of a local airport, according to recent statements by Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister Serik Zhumangarin, Azernews reports.

"The well-known Vietnamese company Savico Group, which recently acquired the airline Qazaq Air, is now planning to expand its operations here. The companys representative visited us recently, and I had a meeting with him. They are currently exploring the possibility of either purchasing an airport or taking it into trust management, since any airline needs a base airport," Zhumangarin said.

He emphasized that Savico Group is growing rapidly and maintains strong partnerships with international carriers. Vietnam has made impressive strides in aviation and logistics, and we can certainly learn a great deal from their experience, he added.

The potential acquisition marks a significant step in strengthening economic ties between Kazakhstan and Vietnam, especially in the field of transport infrastructure and regional connectivity. If successful, the move could turn Kazakhstan into a regional hub for Vietnamese air operations, opening new transit and cargo opportunities across Central Asia.

Savico Groups interest in airport infrastructure also reflects a broader trend of Southeast Asian companies seeking strategic investments in Eurasia. Industry analysts suggest that such partnerships could bring modernization, efficiency, and international standards to Kazakhstan's aviation sector.

As Kazakhstan works to diversify its economy and improve transport logistics under initiatives like the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), collaboration with dynamic foreign investors like Savico Group could play a key role in shaping the region's future air connectivity.
7 May 2025 19:42 (UTC+04:00)

Full digital access to all news for 1 year

Full digital access to all news for 6 months

Full digital access to all news for 3 months

Full digital access to all news for 1 month

Find the plan that suits you best.

The European Commission is considering the imposition of trade tariffs on aircraft produced by U.S. aerospace giant Boeing as part of a broader response to ongoing tariff tensions with Washington. This move is being prepared as a contingency plan in case ongoing trade negotiations with the United States break down and fail to deliver relief for European exports, Azernews reports.

Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention.

Choose to support open, independent, quality journalism and subscribe on a monthly basis.

By subscribing to our online newspaper, you can have full digital access to all news, analysis, and much more.

Subscribe

You can also follow AzerNEWS on Twitter @AzerNewsAz or Facebook @AzerNewsNewspaper

Thank you!
Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest 2025: N. Oregon Coast Tradition Happens June 21

Published 05/05/25 at 7:05 a.m.

By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff





(Cannon Beach, Oregon)  The event itself is almost as much of a staple as the sight of Haystack Rock.

The Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest has been around for 61 years now, filling the north Oregon coast town with thousands on one single day in June (or July, depending on tides). Always set to happen during some of the lowest tides of the year, the 2025 version of Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest happens June 21, with events on June 20 and the 22nd, expanding the experience to a full weekend.

The Cannon Beach Chamber and Visitors Center puts this on every year, along with a sizable army of local volunteers, creating the only day of the year that cars are allowed on the beach as creative minds of all ages and abilities carve out temporary fame in the sands.

Exact times of when the beach opens up to spectators and artists has not yet been revealed: see the contest site for that announcement when it comes CannonBeach.Org.

You can also look forward to some extras with this famed Oregon coast spectacle, including sand carving demonstrations the day before, a beach bonfire and concert after the contest, and the 5K run the following day.

Most notably, the history of the contest goes back to a fairly dark moment: the tsunami of '64 that trashed Seaside and Cannon Beach. When that happened in March, it cut off the town for a little while with the bridge getting taken down. Tourism there slowed, and locals came up with the festival idea to hopefully cajole more back.

They knew they had something.

When they held the second one in '65, it kicked into life and started up a tradition that has achieved national coverage in recent decades. See N. Oregon Coast History: Tsunami Tragedy Started Cannon Beach's Sandcastle Festival

Contest Schedule



Friday, June 20th, 2025



From 10 am to 5 pm, there will be a live demonstration featuring Master Sandcastle Builder Bill Rose on the beach off of 2nd Street.



Packet pick-up will be available at the Cannon Beach Chamber Community Hall from 10 am to 7 pm.

Saturday, June 21, 2025  Times to be announced



Parking for contestants and volunteers opens, followed by general beach parking.



The contest officially begins at 12:15 pm.



Judging will take place throughout the afternoon, with final judging at 5:15 pm for categories including Sand Fleas, Jr/Teen, Small Group, Individuals, Large Group, and Masters. Awards for the Masters category will be presented at the conclusion of judging.



Porta-potties will be removed from the beach, and all vehicles must be off the beach by 6 pm.

Hotels in Cannon Beach - Where to eat - Cannon Beach Maps and Virtual Tours



After the Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest, there's a beach party held from 7 to 10 pm, featuring music, a bonfire, and smores. It's a cool 'n cozy way to enjoy the sands with other sandcastle fans outside the contest. At the bonfire, there will be live music and s'mores. Bringing a lawn chair or blanket to sit on is encouraged. This is a free event for all beachgoers and attendees.

The Singing Sands 5k is the final event of the Sandcastle Contest Weekend, happening on Sunday, June 22. This 5k is an out-and-back that has started from a new location as of last year: the Tolovana Wayside parking lot.





The 5k will begin at 9 am from the Tolovana Wayside Parking lot, said the visitors center. This course will take participants down the Tolovana beach ramp, along the tideline, north on the beach to Haystack Rock, and back along the tideline to the finish line at the Tolovana Wayside parking lot.

While supplies last, participants 12 years of age and older will receive an official Sandcastle Contest T-shirt, and participants under 12 will receive a completion ribbon.

Contestant Information

Masters Division is by invitation only.



New this year: the Open Division is for individuals of all ages who wish to showcase their sandcastle-building talents. This category is best suited for those who are highly skilled and wish to compete at an advanced level.



Large Group Division allows teams of 4 to 8 contestants, regardless of age, to collaborate on their creation.



Teen Division is open to contestants aged 12 to 18. Teams can have anywhere from 1 to 8 members, and each participant will receive an official Sandcastle Contest t-shirt.



Junior Division is designed for young sandcastle enthusiasts aged 7 to 11. Teams can consist of 1 to 8 contestants, and every participant will receive an official Sandcastle Contest t-shirt. When registering, be sure to purchase a ticket and select the appropriate t-shirt size for each contestant.

For full information about the event, registration, accommodations, and merchandise, visit CannonBeach.Org.







MORE PHOTOS BELOW













More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging.....

More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining.....



Coastal Spotlight



Washington Coast / Oregon Coast Articles (stories are random, hit reload to see different articles)

Back to Oregon Coast

Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection

All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright  Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted
Danielle Smith, the Conservative Premier of the oil and mineral rich Canadian province of Alberta, has announced in a live-stream speech that a provincial referendum is likely to be held next year on the province's secession from Canada. A formal petition is currently circulating calling for such a secession referendum, and she has confirmed that if that petition gets the requisite number of signatures, she anticipates the referendum will be held next year.

The last province to do that was Quebec several decades ago. It that referendum, the people of Quebec voted it down.

Alberta has been the center of the "Wexit" (western exit) movement which wants Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and British Columbia to leave Canada and either start their own country, form a loose confederation, or even join the US. These provinces have had problems with the woke agenda from Ottawa, and Ottawa Liberals climate alarmist policies are viewed as a threat to Alberta's oil industry.

Premier Smith previously proposed and pushed through her legislature the Alberta Sovereignty Act which declares that the provincial legislature can nullify any national Canadian law or regulation and that local governments could also nullify them in their own areas. Former Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau threatened to challenge that legislation in court, and Smith responded that if he did so, she would take the issue to a provincial independence referendum. Trudeau backed down. Last year, the Albera legislature adopted its first nullification act, nullifying national energy regulations within Alberta.

When Trudeau pushed through a severe gun control bill nationally, many provincial governments responded by announcing it would not be enforced in their province. Alberta was one of those.

Alberta now faces a more hard headed power bully in Mark Carney than his predecessor Trudeau. Carney has a history as a fanatic climate alarmist, and has had leadership positions in the globalist movement. However, in Danielle Smith, Carney faces a very determined lady who will go to the mat to defend the rights of her province. That includes taking the issue to a referendum on independence.

Smith is keeping her powder dry, saying she herself is not calling for independence at this point, but that issue will be decided by the people of Alberta. She is calling on Carney for negotiations to create a framework where Alberta can be comfortable remaining in Canada.

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/05/oil-rich-province-alberta-may-hold-referendum-secede/

https://www.rebelnews.com/unlikely_quebec_separatist_ally_stands_by_alberta_on_sovereignty

If Alberta goes, there is a good chance Manitoba and Saskatchewan will follow. British Columbia is a much longer shot, however.
Liberal Senator James Lankford (RINO-OK) had the support from his home state GOP organization withdrawn when he was Biden's token Republican co-sponsoring the Trojan Horse Biden Border Bill would have legalized many of Biden's corrupt and illegal border policies and allowed 5,000 illegal aliens into the country per day. His local GOP rightly hit the ceiling over Lankford's stab in the back on that bill.

Now, Lankford is at it again, working for the Democrat position on illegal aliens. He is touting the Democrats current line about needing to give "due process" before deporting illegal aliens and did so in a recent network TV appearance. Lankford has to know that with the 11 million illegal aliens that Biden treasonously allowed into the country that would gum up the works and slow deportation to a crawl, which is what the far left amnesty hounds want.

Federal immigration law requires a substantial amount of due process FROM foreign citizens who want to immigrate. Legal immigrants have to go through a lengthy process of background checks, health checks, etc. Illegal aliens provided our country none of that due process on the way in, when they illegally slipped over our border, so it makes no sense that they are due any on the way out.

RINO Lankford has said he thinks illegal aliens should be treated like legal immigrants. That is like saying burglars should be treated the same as invited houseguests. Sadly we have to wait until 2028 until Lankford has to face a primary again.

https://www.breitbart.com/clips/2025/05/06/lankford-illegal-immigrants-should-get-due-process/

Meanwhile, Stephen Miller on the White House staff says that "due process" for illegal aliens should consist of four words - "Are you here illegally?" and if the answer is yes, then they get deported.

https://www.zerohedge.com/political/white-house-chief-staff-clarifies-due-process-deporting-illegals-4-words
In another flagrant usurpation of legislative or executive power by Obama and Biden district court judges, an Obama judge has ordered the US Department of Education to continue doling out money to school systems to deal with the Covid epidemic. Nevermind that the epidemic is long over, arrogant control freak Judge Edgaro Ramos has ordered the funding to continue.

This is yet another nationwide injunction, something that was rare before this year but is now commonplace for Biden and Obama judges. It involves a billion dollars in federal taxpayer money. The Biden regime allocated this in January just days before leaving office. Now this crooked Obama judge insists that it be spent.

A group of Democrat run states had sued to try to keep the funding. With partisan hack Democrat federal judges, they want to keep the money flowing regardless of the fact that the justification for it is long over. With Obama and Biden judges standing both democracy and common sense on their heads, our Constitutional republic is in danger from them.

https://www.zerohedge.com/political/judge-blocks-department-education-canceling-covid-related-school-aid
Review: This is the best Oasis have been since 96  some might say better... a rock reunion to end them all
Family Business of the Year sponsored by AbbeyAutoline: Woodside Logistics Group Highly Commended: P McVey Building Systems & Hunter Apparel Solutions

Andrew Morrison, Robert Woodside and Sarah Crowe of Woodside Logistics receive the Family Business of the Year award from Jackie McGirr, commercial director at AbbeyAutoline

Woodside Logistics Group triumphed in the category of Family Business of the Year, sponsored by AbbeyAutoline, for their work in delivering professional transport and logistics solutions.

Woodside Logistics Group is a family-owned transport and logistics provider operating across the UK and Ireland.

It has delivered services through five divisions, including ambient transport and warehousing, car transport, tankers, freight forwarding, and customs clearance.

The Woodside familys business began over 55 years ago, when three brothers based on a farm in Ballynure saw an opportunity to expand the familys small fleet of lorries. Robert Woodside, group director at the company, said maintaining a great team was a huge factor in their success.

Andrew Morrison, Robert Woodside and Sarah Crowe of Woodside Logistics receive the Family Business of the Year award from Jackie McGirr, commercial director at AbbeyAutoline

Highlights: Belfast Telegraph Business Awards 2025

Mr Woodside said: Were honoured to be named Family Business of the Year. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our entire team and the strong family values that have guided our business for decades, shaping our culture and inspiring our continued growth and success.

As a second-generation family-run business, this award belongs to everyone at Woodside Logistics Group  its a brilliant achievement and were proud to share it with them.

The group director said staff had been central to the companys growth, with many long-time employees growing alongside the business.

As a business, we continuously strive to be the best organisation possible for our customers, suppliers, and employees. Weve stayed true to our core values, supported by a fantastic team who share those principles. Weve been fortunate to experience strong growth over the years, with a great team thats grown alongside us  many whove been with us a long time.
A north Belfast man who robbed a woman of 180 in cash was handed a 45-month sentence today.

Judge Gordon Kerr KC told Tiernan Delaney that he would spend half the sentence in custody with the remainder on supervised licence on his release from prison.
A Co Antrim man has appeared in court accused of raping and physically abusing his former partner.

Gareth Ross Masterson appeared in the dock at Belfast Magistrates Court today and spoke only to confirm that he was aware of the nine charges against him.
latest | Gerry Adams says he never sued over IRA membership claims as he got legal advice that he would not get fair hearing

Former Sinn Fein President giving evidence under cross-examination on day six of his defamation action against the BBC

Former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams is bringing a legal action against the BBC over allegations about the murder of an MI5 spy (PA)

Shane Phelan Wed 7 May 2025 at 15:02

Gerry Adams has told the High Court in Dublin he never brought a defamation action against any of the numerous media outlets that described him as a Provisional IRA leader because he received legal advice he would not get a fair hearing.
A woman accused of harassing and stealing from North Down MP Alex Easton was warned that she has to at least show some interest in her case.
The incident occurred at around 8pm on May 4

An MLA has denounced a repulsive attack on a bus in south Belfast which police are treating as a racially-motivated and homophobic hate crime.

It happened at around 8pm on Sunday as the Translink vehicle travelled from Ormeau Road between University Avenue and Bedford Street.

Police were alerted after the victim was allegedly targeted by another man and woman on the same bus.

Three men who attempted to intervene were also verbally abused by the individuals.

When the suspects were ordered to exit the public transport vehicle the woman threw a large bottle at one of the men leaving him with a cut on his lip.

The PSNI is appealing for anyone who was on the bus  travelling the route from Ormeau Road taking in University Avenue, Botanic Avenue, Great Victoria Street, Bruce Street and Bedford Street  to contact detectives.

The incident occurred at around 8pm on May 4

News Catch Up - Wednesday 7 May

Inspector McCourt said enquiries are continuing "and at this time, these incidents are being treated as both racially and homophobic-motivated hate crimes.

We are appealing to anyone who was on board the bus service at the time of the incident and who may be able to assist with this investigation to contact us on 101 quoting reference number 1161 05/05/25.

Sinn Fein MLA Deirdre Hargey said there was no place in our communities for this reprehensible behaviour.

The south Belfast MLA said: This is a repulsive incident and I want to extend my solidarity to those who this alleged abuse was directed at, said Ms Hargey

There is no place in our communities for this reprehensible behaviour, and those involved must be brought to justice.

Whether its racism, homophobia, or other vile attitudes, we must do everything we can to eradicate these stains on our society.

I echo calls from police for anyone who may be able to assist with the investigation to come forward with information.
Police are appealing for information following a three-vehicle collision in west Belfast.

The incident happened on the Grosvenor Road shortly after midnight, close to the junction of the Westlink.

A blue BMW 420D, a black BMW 420D and a blue Toyota Rav4 were all involved in the crash.

Several armed response teams and local officers, who stumbled upon the collision, worked at the scene alongside the Northern Ireland ambulance service.

Its understood that one vehicle struck a traffic light during the incident.

Police deal with a three car collision on Grosvenor Road in west Belfast on May 7th 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott)

Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph, a local resident said: I was upstairs at the time and I heard a huge bang, I thought someone had kicked my door.

When I looked out, I could see a car on the footpath with smoke coming from it, the traffic lights were lying across the road too.

The police were there really quickly; I think they all came from the station down the road.

"I really hope everyone is ok.

One man was assessed at the scene by the Ambulance service as a precaution.

In a statement, a police spokesperson said: Police officers on patrol in Belfast reported a collision at the junction of Grosvenor Road and the Westlink off-slip just after 12.15am on Wednesday, 7th May.

The collision involved a blue BMW 420D, a black BMW 420D and a blue Toyota Rav4.

At this stage, no injuries have been reported.

Enquiries into the circumstances are ongoing, and police would appeal to anyone who may have seen the collision occur, or witnessed the vehicles being driven in the city centre beforehand, to contact us.
Richard Satchwell arrives at the District Court in Cashel, Co Tipperary, charged in connection with the murder of his wife Tina Satchwell (PA)

The timing of a Google search for quicklime on a seized laptop is extremely important, the trial of a man accused of murdering his wife has heard.

The trial of Richard Satchwell, who is accused of the murder of his wife Tina, has heard that a search for the substance was found on a laptop seized from their Cork home by gardai in 2017.

Satchwell, 58, from Grattan Street in Youghal is accused of murdering Tina Satchwell at their home between March 19 and 20 2017.

Satchwell, who is originally from Leicester in England, denies murder.

He reported his wife missing on May 11 2017, weeks after the date he told police she had left their home.

On Wednesday, Detective Garda David Kelleher told the court a Google search for quicklime was made on Friday March 24 2017 at 9.08pm on a laptop seized from the Satchwell home in 2017, and seconds later a video was viewed that showed quicklime and water reacting.

He told the Central Criminal Court there are a number of uses for quicklime, including as a building material and as an odour suppressant in mass burials.

Defence barrister Brendan Grehan SC suggested that it was used on bodies to help with the decomposition process.

Mr Kelleher said the timing of the search was extremely important, around four days after Mrs Satchwells death, considering what we know now about where Tinas body was.

Mrs Satchwells remains were found in a shallow grave beneath a concrete floor under a set of stairs in their home in October 2023.

Mr Kelleher also went through a number of emails sent from a RickieSat account and an International Monkey Rescue account and texts sent between Satchwells phone and an Airport 3 number.

He told the court Satchwell was attempting to purchase two marmoset monkeys, called Terry and Thelma, over a period two years, from 2015 to March 2017.

He said that Satchwell sent significant sums of money to a monkey rescue group that he agreed appeared to be a scam.

The two monkeys never arrived, he told the court.

On February 23 2017, at 6.05pm, the court heard an email from International Monkey Rescue was sent to RickieSat, and suggested they could figure out the payment.

A response from RickieSat on the same date, signed off as Richard, said that he had lost his job over going all over Ireland to send you money.

In a later response, the monkey rescue account said we will figure the money issue and let you know and the RickieSat account responded Ok many thanks.

On March 9 2017, the monkey rescue address said, you never took our last message seriously, and the RickieSat account later said, what do you mean by this and added, my wife is saying she is going to leave me over this.

The court was also shown 299 text exchanges between Richard Satchwells device and Airport 3 account between 2016 and April 2017, which relates to the purchase of marmoset monkeys.

On March 10 2017 a text from the Satchwell device said: Hello Mr James I would love to be able to do more but people here will not loan me money because I owe them already so I dont see what I can do because it will be a month before I can send more money. R.

On March 20 2017 he said: Hello Mr James Im in a mess right now because my wife has said she is leaving me over this so please let the organisation know. Richard.

He also said that a forensic accountant was provided with relevant material to examine the Satchwells income and establish the claim that Mrs Satchwell had left with 26,000 euro.

Mr Kelleher said there was one bank account for the household in the name of Richard Satchwell which was always in the red.

The Satchwells did not have the capacity to accumulate anything near 26,000 euro, Mr Kelleher told the court.

Mr Kelleher also explained an exchange of 156 texts sent between March and July 2017 with a cousin of Tina Satchwell.

This included a text at the end of March from Satchwells phone offering our big chest freezer, which received no response, and a text in July to say he had found a suitcase which was the same as Mrs Satchwells.

Earlier, Superintendent Ann Marie Twomey told the court she could not comment on why a previous investigative team did not carry out an intrusive search of the couples home in 2017.

Richard Satchwell denies murdering his wife (Brian Lawless/PA)

Ms Twomey, who was appointed senior investigating officer to the case in August 2021, said she was not involved in the case before then.

Asked by Mr Grehan if she had thought the previous search of Grattan Street was a thorough one, Ms Twomey said: It was not an intrusive search or an invasive search.

She said she had no involvement with the investigation at that stage.

Asked if she expected that the 2017 search would have sought to unearth the remains of Tina Satchwell, Ms Twomey said that the warrant said the search related to assault causing harm.

Tina Satchwell was reported missing in 2017. Her remains were later found in a shallow grave under a set of stairs in her home in 2023 (Family handout/PA)

Mr Grehan suggested there was nothing to prevent gardai from conducting invasive search in June 2017.

I cannot answer the question, Ms Twomey said, because she could not represent the beliefs or thoughts of the previous investigation team.

The team in 2017 had lawful authority to be in the house, but in relation to what they did and didnt do, I cant answer that because I dont know their thought process or belief at that time.

Ms Twomey told the court she was appointed as the senior investigating officer four years after Mrs Satchwell went missing.

She said at the time she was a detective inspector attached to the Cork North Garda division and had no previous involvement in Mrs Satchwells case.

She said that it took months for her and Mr Kelleher to review the material in the incident room, which included witness statements, CCTV, details of the search of Tinas home in 2017, inquiries at ports and airports, inquiries with social welfare and the passport office, media appeals by Gardai and Satchwell, and inquiries into reported sightings.

After they had familiarised themselves with the material, they carried out further inquiries and additional lines of investigation, including engaging with a forensic accountant, a forensic archaeologist and with the PSNI.

She said that by the end of January and the beginning of February 2022, she had reasonable grounds to believe that Mrs Satchwell was not a missing person and had been unlawfully killed.

Flowers and messages left near to the scene in Youghal, Co Cork, where Tina Satchwells body was found (Brian Lawless/PA)

She said she came to this conclusion because despite extensive inquiries carried out, there was no suggestion that Tina was a living person.

She said by the end of August 2022, she had formed the view that Satchwell was a suspect in his wifes disappearance and death.

When asked why Gardai did not act on that information, Ms Twomey said the investigation was very much alive and active and there were other lines of inquiry that needed to be pursued.

She said among those lines of inquiry was engaging with forensic archaeologist Dr Niamh McCullagh.

I was looking for Tina Satchwell, she told the court.

She said that between September 2022 and September 2023, she formed reasonable grounds that a search of the Youghal home was necessary.

She went to the District Court in early October and detailed going to the house on October 10 2023 and informing Richard Satchwell of who she was and the warrant she was executing for an intrusive search.

She said that he replied that he understood the situation.

Richard Satchwell was described as being very co-operative with the Gardai in their investigation (Brian Lawless/PA)

Earlier on Wednesday, Detective Sergeant David Noonan told the court that Satchwell was very co-operative with the Gardai.

He said the cognitive interview technique he conducted with Satchwell on June 20 2021, which was held for up to four hours, can only be done with a co-operative witness.

He said Satchwell was not considered a suspect in his wifes disappearance at the time of the interview, but was considered a significant witness.

The jury was also shown Google location data for a Samsung device seized from the Satchwell home and CCTV footage of Satchwell at Youghal Post Office and Aldi in Dungarvan on March 20 2017.

The trial continues on Thursday.
John Swinney said Labour had opened the door for Reform UK (Jane Barlow/PA)

John Swinney has said Nigel Farage is very much in power at Westminster despite not being in office, as he gathered his candidates a year ahead of the Scottish election.

The Reform UK leader featured prominently in the First Ministers speech, as he said Sir Keir Starmer had opened the door for Mr Farage and claimed only the SNP would confront him.

Mr Swinneys party also revealed their slogan ahead of the Scottish Parliament election in a years time  On Scotlands Side.

The First Minister spoke to a crowd of supporters in Edinburgh as he was joined on stage by the SNP candidates who will be running in constituencies next year.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage already has power, according to Scotlands First Minister (Owen Humphreys/PA)

This group will include a contingent of former SNP MPs who lost their Westminster seats at the general election.

Mr Swinney began his speech by urging party members to pay tribute to SNP MSP Christina McKelvie, who died recently, by campaigning in her constituencys by-election and helping to fulfil her dream of an independent Scotland.

He reflected on his first year in office as First Minister, saying: We know that when the SNP does well, Scotland does well.

So let us resolve today  in 2026, the SNP are going to win for Scotland.

He set out the SNPs recent policies in government, including the pledge to mitigate the two-child benefit cap and ensuring a winter fuel payment for pensioners.

Mr Swinney said last weeks election results in England should be a wake-up call and it is no longer fanciful to suggest that Nigel Farage could be prime minister in a few years.

He said: Keir Starmer and the Labour party have opened the door to Farage.

Because they have failed to stand up to him.

Dancing to Farages tune on immigration. Too scared to admit Brexit has been a disaster 

At Westminster, Nigel Farage may not be in office - but he is very much in power.

He added: We will never do any deals with Farage.

Only the SNP will confront Farage and defeat Farage.

Mr Swinney said he wanted to see an enterprising, outward-looking and compassionate Scotland with the powers of independence.

There were cheers from supporters when he said he wanted to see human rights, including LGBTQI+ rights, not as something to denigrate, but as the bedrock of a society.

Mr Swinney continued: A year today, I dont just want to win - I want us to shift the tectonic plates of Scottish politics and create a wave of hope that will overcome Westminsters wall of despair.

Taking questions from journalists, Mr Swinney said there is nothing attractive about the rise of Reform, even in constituencies where it may hinder his opponents.

He later suggested Mr Farages politics would push more people towards supporting Scottish independence, saying the Reform UK leader is a different kettle of fish to Tory leaders like Boris Johnson and the antithesis of kindness.

In April, Mr Swinney chaired a summit to battle the rise of the far right, which he said included Reform UK.

Other political parties, including Labour, attended the summit but the Conservatives did not take part.

In response, Reform UK  which was not invited  described the SNP leader as a democracy denier and accused him of being scared of the partys popularity.
Sir Keir Starmer has been warned he may be the Prime Minister to see Britain answer at The Hague for being complicit in war crimes in Gaza (PA)

Sir Keir Starmer has been warned he may be the prime minister to see Britain answer at The Hague for being complicit in war crimes in Gaza.

Independent MP Shockat Adam asked if the Government would acknowledge that ethnic cleansing is under way and to end all UK military co-operation with Israel.

This week Israel approved a plan to intensify its operations in the Palestinian enclave, which would include seizing Gaza, holding on to captured territories, forcibly displacing Palestinians to southern Gaza and taking control of aid distribution along with private security companies.

Israels offensive has killed more than 52,000 people in Gaza, many of them women and children, according to Palestinian health officials.

Israels offensive has killed more than 52,000 people in Gaza (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

In September last year, Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced the suspension of around 30 arms sale licences to Israel as the Government had concluded there was a clear risk that some exports might be used to commit or facilitate a serious violation of international humanitarian law.

MPs have continued to raise concerns about the UKs export of parts used in F-35 fighter jets which Israel have utilised in airstrikes on Gaza.

Foreign Office minister Hamish Falconer told the House on Tuesday that the Government had suspended sale of parts for F-35s where they go directly to Israel, but added where we do not know their final destination that they are not suspended.

During Prime Ministers Questions, Mr Adam said: This week the Israeli government approved a plan to officially conquer Gaza, and just yesterday (Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich) vowed that Gaza will be entirely destroyed and that the Palestinians will have to leave in great numbers to third countries.

This comes at the end of the extermination of over 50,000 Palestinian men, women and children and at the same time, simultaneous expansion of illegal settlements in the West Bank, something I witnessed with my own eyes last week.

So will now the Prime Minister finally acknowledge that ethnic cleansing is underway and to end all UK military cooperation with Israel, especially the illegal provision of F-35 fighter jet parts, or will he risk make Britain complicit in war crimes and be the Prime Minister to see Britain answer at The Hague for its role in this atrocity?

Sir Keir Starmer said he was concerned about the lack of aid getting into Gaza (Alistair Grant/PA)

Sir Keir replied: Most of what (Mr Adam) says is simply not right.

But I do want to address the position in Gaza and the West Bank, because it is increasingly intolerable, and I am deeply concerned, particularly with the lack of aid that is getting in and the impact its having on hundreds of thousands of individuals.

That concern is something I recently reaffirmed to the Prime Minister of the Palestinian Authority, where I asserted again that a two state solution is the only viable approach for peace, and our focus is on delivering peace for Palestinians and Israelis, returning to the cease fire, getting the hostages out and humanitarian aid in that is desperately needed in greater number and more quickly.

The Government granted 108 licences for military and non-military controlled goods to Israel between 7 October 2023 and 31 May 2024, according to data released in June 2024.

The UK does not export military equipment to the Palestinian Authority.
A row over the UKs new trade deal with India has broken out about whether it undercuts British workers (Alamy/PA)

The UKs new trade deal with India does not undercut British workers, the Trade Secretary has said.

Opposition politicians have criticised a provision in Tuesdays deal exempting some temporary Indian workers from national insurance payments, claiming this would undercut British staff.

On Wednesday, Jonathan Reynolds described the claim as completely false, telling the BBC: There is no situation where I would ever tolerate British workers being undercut through any trade agreement we would sign. That is not part of the deal.

Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said the new UK-India deal would not undercut British workers (Aaron Chown/PA)

Under the terms of the agreement, staff working for an Indian company who transferred to the UK for less than three years would pay into the Indian social security system rather than paying into both British and Indian systems as they do now.

UK workers temporarily in India would remain subject to national insurance, but be exempt from Indian social security levies.

Mr Reynolds pointed to similar deals with 50 other countries, including the EU, the US, Canada and Japan, saying that the previous Conservative government signed a similar deal exempting Chilean workers from national insurance for five years.

Seconding Indian staff to the UK will also involve additional costs such as the immigration health surcharge and relocation costs, Mr Reynolds said.

He added that the overall impact of the deal would mean more tax revenue for the Treasury, and said he expected more UK workers to be seconded to India as a result of British companies gaining access to Indian government procurement contracts.

Speaking to Sky News, he added: This is not a tangible issue. This is the Conservatives  and Reform  unable to accept that this Labour Government has done what they couldnt do and get this deal across the line.

Mr Reynolds also dismissed reports that the Home Office had not been informed about the terms of the deal until shortly before it was announced, saying it was absolute nonsense reporting.

The deal includes some easing of rules on business mobility for temporary visitors and up to 1,800 chefs, yoga instructors and musicians providing contracted services.

But the Government has insisted it will involve no impact on the immigration system or immigration numbers.

Downing Street was unable to provide estimates of how the deal may impact immigration or tax-take in Britain.

The Prime Ministers official spokesman said: We dont do individual line-by-line assessments on free trade deals.

He said the UK and India have not agreed the final details of their social security deal and that the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) would provide a fiscal assessment once the agreement was ratified.

The deal, which has lowered tariffs on UK exports including whiskey, gin and cars as well as imports of clothing from India, is estimated to add 4.8 billion to GDP per year from 2040.

But the Tories have seized on the national insurance contribution (NICs) exemptions, known as a double contributions convention, as an example of what they claimed was two-tier taxes under the Labour Government.

Shadow business minister Dame Harriett Baldwin told MPs the arrangement would be subsidising Indian labour while undercutting British workers.

A double contribution convention will come at a significant cost to the British taxpayer and to British businesses, she told the Commons on Tuesday.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage described the deal as truly appalling, adding: This Government doesnt give a damn about working people. The Labour Party has this time in a big, big way betrayed working Britain.
Actor Michael Pitt, known for his TV roles in Boardwalk Empire and Dawsons Creek, has been accused of sexually assaulting his ex-girlfriend, choking her, and attacking her with a cinder block and a piece of wood at his New York City home, according to a grand jury indictment.

Pitt, 44, whose lawyers denied the allegations, was arrested on Friday on nine counts including first-degree sexual abuse, criminal sexual acts, assault, attempted assault and strangulation.

The indictment cites four incidents between April 2020 and August 2021 at Pitts home in the Bushwick area of Brooklyn.

Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalezs office declined to comment on Wednesday beyond the allegations listed in the indictment.

Pitts lawyer, Jason Goldman, said he already had exonerating evidence and expected the case to be dismissed.

Unfortunately, we live in a world where somebody like Mr Pitt  an accomplished professional who would never so much as contemplate these crimes  can be arrested on the uncorroborated word of an unreliable individual, Mr Goldman said in a text message to The Associated Press.

He added: In reality, this baseless claim is suspiciously raised some four or five years after the alleged incident, from a time when the two parties were in a completely consensual relationship.

Pitt pleaded not guilty to the charges on Friday and posted 100,000 dollars bail, Goldman said. He is due back in court in Brooklyn on June 17.

The Associated Press does not typically name people who say they have been sexually abused unless they come forward publicly, which the woman in Pitts case has not done.

The indictment alleges Pitt forcibly touched his ex-girlfriend sexually in April 2020. In August 2020, the grand jury alleges Pitt forced oral sex on the woman and assaulted her with a four-inch-by-four-inch piece of wood.

The indictment also says Pitt attacked her with a cinder block twice in June 2021 and choked her in August 2021.

TMZ reported in 2022 that Pitt was arrested in Brooklyn for allegedly punching a man after taking his phone and, two months later, was brought to hospital under police escort after a public outburst in New York.

Pitt, who grew up in New Jersey, played the character Jimmy Darmody for two seasons on HBOs Boardwalk Empire, with the cast led by Steve Buscemi winning Screen Actors Guild Awards in 2011 and 2012 for outstanding performance by an ensemble in a drama series. The show also won a Golden Globe for best drama series in 2011.

His first major role came in the 2001 film Hedwig and the Angry Inch. In 2005, he starred in Last Days, director Gus Van Sants film about a fictional rock star inspired by Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain.

He also played Henry Parker in one season of The WBs Dawsons Creek in 1999-2000.
Leader of the Christian Democrats Friedrich Merz, centre, Alexander Dobrindt of the Christian Social Union left, and CDU faction leader Thorsten Frei, right (Markus Schreiber/AP)

Germanys new government plans to station more police at the border to curb illegal migration and even turn away some of the asylum seekers trying to enter Europes biggest economy, the new interior minister said on Wednesday.

Alexander Dobrindt told reporters in Berlin that police at the border would be increased in coming days.

He said vulnerable people would still be allowed to enter, but his assertion that Germany would turn away some asylum seekers goes beyond what the previous government was willing to do.

We are not going to close the borders, but we are going to control the borders more strictly and this stronger control of the borders will also lead to a higher number of rejections, Mr Dobrindt said.

We will gradually increase this higher number of rejections and the stronger controls at the borders, he added.

We will ensure that, step by step, more police forces are deployed at the borders and can also carry out these push-backs.

The countrys new Chancellor Friedrich Merz had vowed to toughen the countrys migration policy during his election campaign.

Just weeks before the national election in February, the conservative leader said he would bar people from entering the country without proper papers and to step up deportations if he is elected chancellor.

Those comments came after a knife attack in Aschaffenburg by a rejected asylum seeker, which left a man and a two-year-old boy dead.

Mr Merz succeeds former chancellor Olaf Scholz, whose government collapsed six months ago. Mr Merz was elected by MPs on Tuesday and officially nominated as chancellor by the countrys president the same day.

Mr Scholz, too, had been under pressure to curb migration as shelters across the country had been filling up for years.

His government tried to speed up asylum procedures and also negotiated agreements for countries to take unsuccessful asylum seekers back in exchange for more opportunities for legal immigration.

In February, just days before the election, Mr Scholzs government had also extended by six months the border checks it imposed on all its frontiers last autumn as it attempted to cut the number of migrants arriving in the country.

The government said at the time that the increase of border controls led to a drop in migrants trying to cross Germanys borders.

The European Unions visa-free travel area known as Schengen allows citizens of most member states to travel easily across borders for work and pleasure. Switzerland also belongs to Schengen although it is not an EU member.

According to the EU, member states are allowed to temporarily reintroduce border controls in cases of a serious threat, such as internal security. But it also says border controls should be applied as a last resort in exceptional situations, and must be limited in time.

We want this Europe of open borders to be possible again, but the current situation is one of open dysfunctionality, Mr Dobrindt said.

This must be corrected and then we can very quickly return to a reduction in border controls.

Germanys anti-immigrant, far-right Alternative for Germany party, or AfD, had also campaigned on the migration issue with calls for deportations of illegal immigrants.

Last week, Germanys domestic intelligence service classified the AfD, which came second in national elections in February, as a right-wing extremist organisation  making it subject to greater and broader surveillance of its activities.

The agency described the AfD as a threat to the countrys democratic order, saying it disregards human dignity  in particular by what it called ongoing agitation against refugees and migrants.

According to the EUs border control agency Frontex, the number of irregular border crossings into the European Union fell significantly in 2024.

In Germany, the number of people applying for asylum fell sharply last year. The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees says 250,945 people applied for asylum in 2024, down 30.2% from 2023.

Mr Merz plunged straight into international crises on his first full day as Germanys new chancellor on Wednesday, presenting a united front with France against U.S. President Donald Trumps trade war, demanding more aid for Gaza and announcing he soon would visit Ukraine.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, left, talks to French President Emmanuel Macron in the garden of the Elysee palace in Paris on Wednesday (Ludovic Marin, Pool via AP)

Mr Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron  firm believers in the European Union and leaders of the continents largest economies  used their first meeting since the German leaders appointment on Tuesday to show unity on Ukraine and other issues causing alarm in Europe.

They vowed to strengthen the continents security and increase defence spending.

In a joint news conference, Mr Merz acknowledged that Europe still needs the US for peace in Ukraine.

It is our firm conviction that we cannot end this war in Ukraine without further political and military engagement by the United States of America, he said. The Europeans cannot replace this at present.

During the meeting in Paris, Mr Macron said that France and Germany will accelerate defence co-operation, including jointly developing new defence technologies necessary for the wars of tomorrow.

He listed working together on tanks, long-range missiles and combat aircraft. He also said that the countries would start regular meetings of a French-German defence council.

Mr Merz also visited Poland on Wednesday and addressed his new governments plans to station more police at Germanys border to curb illegal migration.
Russia launched a pre-dawn ballistic missile and a barrage of drones at Ukraines capital on Wednesday, killing at least two people in apartment buildings, Ukrainian officials have said.

Eight people were also wounded in the attack, including four children, the Kyiv City Military Administration said in a post on Telegram.

The attack came before Russias planned unilateral 72-hour ceasefire in the more-than-three-year war to coincide with celebrations in Moscow marking Victory Day in the Second World War.

The US has proposed a 30-day ceasefire, which Ukraine has accepted, but the Kremlin has held out for ceasefire terms more to its liking.

At least one ballistic missile was recorded in Kyivs airspace, authorities said (Evgeniy Maloletka/AP)

The Kremlin said that the truce, ordered on humanitarian grounds, would start on Thursday and last through to Saturday to mark the Soviet Unions defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945.

Russian president Vladimir Putin is expecting foreign dignitaries, including Chinese president Xi Jinping, to watch a military parade in Red Square during the 80th anniversary celebrations.

Any Ukrainian attack, such as Tuesdays drone barrage that forced all four international airports around Moscow to temporarily suspend flights, would be embarrassing for the Russian leader.

The Kremlin announced on Tuesday that Mr Putin would travel to China at the end of August and beginning of September.

Since Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24 2022, Moscow has drawn closer to China as western countries sought to isolate Mr Putin diplomatically.

Russia has become increasingly dependent economically on China because of western sanctions.

At least one ballistic missile and 28 Russian drones were recorded in Kyivs airspace, authorities said.

Air defence forces shot down the missile and 11 drones.

A five-storey residential building in the Shevchenkivskyi district in the centre of the capital was hit by drone debris, sparking a fire in several apartments where the victims were found, he said. Four people, including three children, were admitted to hospital, while others received treatment on site.

In the Sviatoshynskyi district, fire broke out across multiple upper-floor apartments of a nine-storey building after drone debris impact, according to the Kyiv City Military Administration. Five people were rescued from the blaze, which spanned 100 square metres.

In Dniprovskyi district, the upper floors of a high-rise building were partially destroyed by a drone strike, but no injuries were reported. In Solomianskyi, a ballistic missile was intercepted by air defence, with the warhead falling and damaging non-residential infrastructure. One person was wounded in that strike.

Air defence forces shot down the missile and 11 drones (Evgeniy Maloletka/AP)

There was no immediate comment from Moscow on the attack. Russian officials reported shooting down dozens of Ukrainian drones overnight, with local governor Alexander Bogomaz writing on social media that more than 140 airborne targets had been destroyed over Russias Bryansk region.

Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin said that local air defences had repelled an attack by nine drones close to the Russian capital.

Drone attacks were also reported over the Tula region, where officials reported five drone attacks, and the Yaroslavl region, where local leader governor Mikhail Evraev said three drones had been destroyed.

In the city of Saransk, 390 miles (630km) east of Moscow, officials announced on Wednesday that nurseries, schools, colleges and universities would close temporarily. The message came shortly after local governor Artem Zdunov warned residents about a potential drone threat over the city. Local officials also posted warnings on social media against sharing photos and videos that showed the fallout from drone strikes.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent testifies before the House Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government (Jose Luis Magana/AP)

Senior US officials are set to meet a high-level Chinese delegation this weekend, the administration said, in the first major talks between the two nations since Donald Trump sparked a trade war between them.

Treasury secretary Scott Bessent and trade representative Jamieson Greer will meet their counterparts in Geneva in the most-senior known conversations between the two countries in months.

The meeting in Switzerland comes amid growing US market concerns over the impact of US tariffs on the prices and supply of consumer goods.

The president had claimed previously that the US and China were holding negotiations on lowering tariffs, which Beijing has denied, saying Mr Trump must first lower his stiff tariffs.

Shipping containers are seen ready for transport at the Guangzhou Port in the Nansha district in southern Chinas Guangdong province (AP)

The Chinese Commerce Ministry on Tuesday confirmed the meeting between vice premier He Lifeng and Mr Bessent in Switzerland.

The Chinese side carefully evaluated the information from the US side and decided to agree to have contact with the US side after fully considering global expectations, Chinese interests and calls from US businesses and consumers, said a ministry spokesperson.

Mr Bessent and Mr Greer also plan to meet with Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter, according to readouts from their respective offices.

Mr Bessent earlier on Tuesday testified to a House committee that the US and China have not engaged in negotiations but as early as this week, the US will be announcing trade deals with some of the countrys largest trading partners.

Mr Greer told Fox News Channel last month that he spoke with his Chinese counterpart for more than an hour before the trade war started.

I thought it was constructive, he said. This is not a plan just to encircle China. Its a plan to fix the American economy, to have a greater share of manufacturing as GDP, to have real wages go up, to be producing things instead of having an economy thats financed by the government.

Mr Bessent in February spoke with Mr He to exchange views on the bilateral economic relationship, according to a Treasury news release.
Ombudsmans Housing Executive investigation likely to highlight some problems for which there is no easy fix
INLA boss convicted of wearing terror garb at memorial for paramilitary killed by the Army

Thug donned mask and beret before joining colour party but was identified from his distinctive build

The INLA parade with Carlo Carlin carrying the red flag in the front

Christopher Woodhouse Wed 7 May 2025 at 20:00

INLA boss Sean Carlo Carlin and another republican have been convicted of wearing paramilitary-style clothing at a commemoration parade.
Adobe Stock

"But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you." (John 14:26 NKJV)

This is one of several verses in the Bible where Jesus speaks of an "advocate" or a "helper" to assist us when He ascended into heaven to be seated at the Father's right hand. In this verse, the King James Version calls the Holy Spirit a "comforter." The Greek translation of that word is "paraclete," which is made of two words: para, meaning "alongside," and kletos, meaning "to call."

When we pray, the Holy Spirit will assist us, fulfilling the meaning of parakletos, "to be called and come alongside us in aid." The laity, priests, bishops, archbishops, cardinals, and even the Pope know Greek, Latin, Hebrew, and many other languages. So when they pray during a Papal conclave, they understand they ask for help from the Holy Spirit and what it means to do so. The Sacred College of Cardinals asksand needsthe Holy Spirit to guide their decisions and help them understand who should be the next Pope.

The election of a new Pope hasn't always been this way. The Papacy is riddled with deception and debauchery. Benedict IX (1012-1056) even sold his right once to the Holy See to his godfather. (He was appointed three times.)

Fortunately, the Papal conclave is very different today, so the Holy Spirit is invited to guide the cardinals in making the right decisions. Later in John's Gospel, Jesus tells us another promise of the Holy Spirit, "When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future" (John 16:13 NLT).

"Tell you about the future" or guide you to make the right choice for a decision that is to come. That is part of the Holy Spirit's natureto guide, help, aid, comfort, and lead us. When the Holy See is officially recognized as sede vacante or "vacant seat," every cardinal below the age of 80 (being the threshold for Cardinals to vote, written in the Code of Canon Law) to the Vatican under an oath of secrecy and are locked in the Sistine Chapel until they have elected a new Pontiff.

Adherents to the Roman Catholic Church are no different than evangelicals in a charismatic church when it comes to "being led by the Spirit of God." The Holy Spirit never forces us to do anything. He will do what Jesus said He will do, but it is up to us to act upon that notion provided to us for the right decision and path in life.

During the papal conclave, the cardinals chant "Veni, Sancte Spiritus," which means, in Latin, "Come, Holy Spirit." He is welcome inside those locked doors to help guide them to the right man for the future of the Roman Catholic Church. Over 1.3 billion people are counting on them to make the right choice, so they need all the help they can get. They sit in silence, pray as one, and believe they will be encouraged in one direction or another.

The Holy Spirit speaks to usand the College of Cardinalsin several ways:

Whether a pope dies or resigns because of an unfortunate illness, there are men called by God who believe in the Holy Spirit to guide them. It wasn't always this way, and people do listen to the Lord through the filter of their emotions and thoughts. If the Holy Spirit is part of the Papal conclave, the answer is yes. He is invited, and from that moment, He does His work in the hearts of those cardinals.

Do they get the answer right once a new Pontiff has been elected?

Only time will tell, but the answer is there if they want it.

Shawn Paul Wood, Th.D., is an award-winning copywriter, storyteller, and best-selling ghostwriter of several faith-based articles, books, speeches, and columns for some of the most admirable brands in their respective industries for more than 20 years. As Founder of Woodworks Communications with a doctorate in Theology, he leads teams of content strategists and marketing professionals to expand the brands and audiences of corporate leaders, serial entrepreneurs, and respected ministers of the Gospel. Read his Patheos column Close to Home here.
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.
BENNINGTON  A Bennington judge, for the second time in six weeks, has rejected a Vermont Attorney Generals plea deal involving someone charged with nine counts of possessing child sexual abuse images while he lived with young children.

The plea deal, initially rejected for lack of clarity by Bennington Judge Jennifer Barrett back in March, would have the Bennington man, Caleb Cox, 35, pleading guilty to two of the nine counts and walking out of the courtroom a free man after credit for time served and probation. Judge Barrett rejected the deal after informing both parties that she was not comfortable accepting the plea agreement, asking both parties to provide more information to make her decision.

That clarifying information came at a sentencing hearing Monday afternoon via direct testimony from the two individuals, Coxs probation officer and the doctor responsible for authoring Coxs psycho-sexual evaluation. However, that information did not sway the judge to accept the deal.

A pre-sentencing investigation authored by Coxs probation officer to help determine whether Cox was predisposed to re-offend classified Cox as a low risk for repeating. The officer did, however, recommend Cox attend sex offender treatment. The doctor, Kathleen Kennedy, who wrote Coxs psycho-sexual report, also testified that she scored Cox as a low risk to re-offend but also noted Cox should receive the specialized sex offender and mental health treatment that he required.

That posed a serious problem for both the Attorney Generals representative and the judge since Bennington County does not currently have any community-based sex offender treatment programs.

According to Vermont Attorney Generals Office attorney Sophie Stratton, she wasnt aware that Bennington County had no adequate treatment programs available if Cox was released into the community. Stratton suggested that additional incarceration time might be required so that Cox could attend treatment while incarcerated. Her suggestion though was outside the scope of the negotiated plea agreement. Defense lawyer Susanna Bliss suggested that the Department of Corrections could help Cox find adequate housing in a different county so that he could attend treatment in the community. That suggestion was also outside of the negotiated plea deal.

After a brief recess and a short statement by Cox claiming responsibility and a desire to receive any necessary treatment, the judge was ready to reject the deal as it stood.

The court is not going to accept the plea deal, Judge Barrett announced. It's certainly commendable that Mr. Cox has taken immediate responsibility, and he is amenable to treatment, and so those things certainly work in his favor [but] I cannot accept this deal.

Judge Barrett then went on to explain her decision, citing Coxs admission to possessing child sex abuse mages and her reticence to release Cox without proper treatment available.

The court is concerned, and has been concerned, that rehabilitation has to be the cornerstone of these agreements, Judge Barrett said. The court is concerned that he doesn't have access to the treatment that would be necessary for rehabilitation immediately in the community. The court's concerned at this point that he lacks housing, he lacks employment, he lacks any access to sex offender treatment in the community and wouldn't have any access to those things. The court is also concerned the defendant has a minor female child himself.

She said, I don't have a plan where that is available to him right now. The court had hoped, having heard from the Department of Corrections and Dr. Kennedy, that it would be more comfortable accepting the agreement, but I am, in fact, less comfortable accepting the agreement knowing that Cox does not have access to those resources. It's concerning to the court that only Bennington County apparently doesn't have access to those resources. But that doesn't change the outcome, which is, if I accepted this agreement, he walks out today, and he has no immediate access to treatment.

Based on the structure of this agreement, the court's not going to accept it. It does not meet the sentencing needs. These are incredibly serious charges with incredibly serious content, and the court just has not been presented with a robust treatment plan that would be in place on his immediate release.

Judge Barrett then gave Cox the legal opportunity to revoke his guilty pleas. A hearing was set for next month. If Cox pulls out of the deal, his case will start over on its way to trial. Both sides could also re-negotiate the terms of the deal to allow time for Cox to receive treatment while incarcerated or to solidify plans for community treatment outside of Bennington County.

Cox was initially charged back in 2023 with nine felony counts of possessing child sexual abuse images. He faced a possible five-year sentence on each charge if he was found guilty at trial for a total of 45 years behind bars.

A tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children led police investigators to Cox after Google alerted NCEMC about a series of uploaded files .

According to a police affidavit, Google accounts allegedly linked to Cox searched for these files and then downloaded the materials to files under Cox's control. A search warrant was issued on Sept. 8 for Coxs residence, where he was living with his fiancee. Cox initially claimed that his email account was hacked. Police confronted Cox with some of the images and videos inside his account. Cox then admitted to police that he used the explicit sites for pleasure.

The plea deal signed by both parties back in March had Cox pleading guilty to just two of the nine counts. He was to receive a suspended sentence of 1-5 years, with a 10-year probation and a total of 177 days to serve, the exact number of days he spent behind bars awaiting trial. Full credit would be given for all days served, leaving Cox to walk out of the courtroom a free man. The seven additional charges would be officially dropped.

Coxs probation was to include several special conditions, including enrolling in a treatment program for sexual offenders and one for sexual abusers, no pornography, no loitering in places with children, no cameras or recording equipment, warrantless searches, periodic polygraph examinations, no computer or cellphone capable of accessing the internet, a chaperone while visiting with minors, no direct contact with anyone under 16, and a requirement that Cox register as a sex offender for 10 years and tell anyone he is involved romantically with about his convictions.

This is an ongoing story. It will be updated as more information becomes available.
A day after a City Council subcommittee kicked back his proposed camping ban, Mayor Peter Marchetti on Tuesday said he is "very open" to making the changes that were requested.
BillOReilly.com is not available in this country.



We apologize for any inconvenience.
Government of Maharashtra to revolutionise emergency medical services in India

May 07, 2025 | Wednesday | News

Initiative to begin in Maharashtra with a total investment of nearly Rs 1,600 crore

image credit- shutterstock

Sumeet SSG BVG Maharashtra EMS has signed 10-year concessionaire agreement with Public Health Department, Government of Maharashtra to revolutionise emergency medical services in India.

The initiative will begin in Maharashtra with a total investment of nearly Rs 1,600 crore. The project aims to implement the new Maharashtra Emergency Medical Services (MEMS) 108 Ambulance Program across the state.

Under the agreement, the partners will deploy a fleet of 1756 state-of-the-art ambulances equipped with advanced medical technology to provide critical care during the vital golden hour of emergencies. The rollout of the new MEMS 108 Project will take place across Maharashtra in five phases beginning in November 2025.

The new fleet of advanced ambulances will be fitted with cutting-edge technologies such as Mobile Data Terminals (MDT), tablet PCs, RFID, GPS, caller location tracking, CCTV, and TRIAGE systems. These vehicles will also integrate inbuilt systems for Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD), Vehicle Tracking and Management (VTMS), and patient arrival notifications.

The fleet will include Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulances, Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances, neonatal care units, first responder bikes, as well as sea and river boat ambulances. From a long-term perspective, the MEMS 108 program aims to feature medical application drones and helicopter-based emergency medical services.

This initiative will set a new benchmark for emergency medical services in India. It will offer cutting-edge technology and enhanced operational efficiency as well as establish a sustainable model for future public-private partnerships in high-quality service delivery.
Connie Chiang

Connie Chiang has been named the Rusack Professor of History and Environmental Studies. A historian of the twentieth-century US focusing on the environmental and social history of the American West, Chiang has most recently concentrated on the intersection of Asian American and environmental history. I strive to develop a more expansive narrative that goes beyond the exploitation of Asian American laborers and nature in an extractive economy, said Chiang. There are so many other rich storiesof Chinese immigrants evading exclusion laws in the dense forests and waterways of the Pacific Northwest or Japanese pictorial photographers scaling mountain peaks in the national parksthat show the complexities of the Asian American experience and the many ways that the natural world shaped their lives and helped them to push for inclusion. Chiang's 2018 book, Nature Behind Barbed Wire: An Environmental History of the Japanese American Incarceration, was awarded the Agricultural History Societys 2019 Theodore Saloutos Memorial Award for best book on agricultural history in the US. Last year, she edited and contributed to Nature Unfurled: Asian American Environmental Histories, which Julie Sze, author of Environmental Justice in a Moment of Danger, called a stunning contribution to the fields of Asian American and environmental history. Of her experience in the classroom, Chiang says, It has been a great privilege to teach and learn from such intelligent, earnest, and engaged students and to create a space of discovery and exploration with them in the classroom. I enjoy how much they challenge me and help me to see the past anew while remaining critical and clear-eyed for the future. Chiang earned her bachelor's degree in history and environmental studies at the University of CaliforniaSanta Barbara and her master's and PhD degrees in history at the University of Washington.

The Rusack Professorship in Environmental Studies was established by Alison Wrigley Rusack P13 and Geoffrey Claflin Rusack 78, P13 In support of compensation, research and teaching expenses, and sabbatic leaves for one or more faculty member engaged in the field of environmental studies.
State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada

Postal Code
Geordie Shore star Vicky Pattison and Irish TV presenter Angela Scanlon will discuss topics including motherhood and internet drama as the hosts of a new podcast titled Get A Grip.

The catalyst for the podcast was female comradery in the face of the ridiculous, according to Virgin Radio UK host Scanlon.

Advertisement

Being told to get a grip is not a new notion for most women, and is something Ive experienced a couple of times (a week!), as has Vicky, the 41-year-old said.

Get A Grip is hosted by Angela Scanlon and Vicky Pattison (Amanda Akokhia/PA)

Female comradery in the face of the ridiculous was the catalyst for our new podcast. We wanted to create a fun and empowering space where we can unpick the good, the bad and the bizarre happenings in the world each week as we move through our own lives loudly, unashamedly and maybe a little unhinged.

Were taking the group chat into the pod world and we cant wait for you to come with us!

Reality TV star Pattison said: For those who know me by now I am never one to shy away from expressing myself whether people want to hear it or not!

Advertisement

So Im thrilled that I get to do that alongside my partner in crime as we do our best to keep things real and put the world to rights with lots of laughter along the way. I have no doubt we will be bringing a lot of you along with us too.

Im a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! winner Pattison, 37, previously hosted the podcast Vicky Pattison: The Secret To, where she spoke to celebrities about their success.

Vicky Pattison attending the Bafta TV Awards 2024 (Ian West/PA)

Scanlon presented the podcast Thanks A Million, which saw her interview celebrities including comedian Alan Carr and Irish TV presenter Laura Whitmore.

Arianne Merry, executive producer of Get A Grip, said: Were absolutely thrilled to team up with Angela and Vicky on Get A Grip.

Advertisement

This is an unapologetic podcast that your ears have been craving. Its bold, brilliant and brimming with personality.

We knew we were creating something special from the moment we got Angela and Vicky in the studio together.

They not only get on like a house on fire, but bring two distinct female perspectives to the table, tackling everything from personal battles, headline-grabbing issues or the lighter side of life, whilst carrying mutual respect and quick wit.

And they top it all off with a laugh, which is something we all need more of!

Advertisement

Get A Grip is available on all podcasting platforms from May 8th.
A paediatrician has told the trial of a man charged with seriously assaulting his five month old daughter that when the child was admitted to hospital doctors found she had suffered bruising to her face, chest, abdomen and right buttock, a fractured collar bone, blood on the surface of the brain and tearing of its connective fibres.

The 31-year-old accused is on trial at Cork Circuit Criminal Court, having pleaded not guilty to three charges.

Advertisement

The man, who cant be named to protect the identity of the child, previously entered a not guilty plea to a charge of causing serious harm to his five-month-old daughter on January 4th, 2021.

He also pleaded not guilty to a charge of assault causing harm to his daughter on dates between November 25th and December 15th 2020, and with wilfully assaulting or ill-treating the child in a manner likely to cause unnecessary suffering to the childs health or seriously affect the childs wellbeing.

Dr Rosina McGovern, who is a consultant paediatrician at Cork University Hospital, said that when the child was brought to hospital on the evening of January 4th 2021 she was lethargic and drowsy. Her parents told medical staff that their young daughter had been vomiting and wasnt tolerating fluids.

It was noted that she poor head control and was very quiet. In addition to bruising an X-ray indicated that the baby had sustained a fractured collarbone, which was healing.

Advertisement

The child had bleeding in the eyes.

She said an MRI showed that the young girl had blood on the surface of her brain and tearing of the fibres of the brain. She said that the parents didnt give an explanation for the injuries the child had sustained.

Dr McGovern said the child had a subdural haemorrhage which is associated with abusive head trauma.

She told Judge Dermot Sheehan and the jury that children under the age of six months rarely suffer from bruising arising out of their lack of mobility. The child was found to have no underlying medical condition to explain her injuries.

Advertisement

Dr McGovern stated that the fracture of the collarbone on such a young child was also unusual given her young age. Blood was found on the spine of the child from the top of the neck to the lower back.

She said that the child spent from January 4th to January 18th, 2021, in the hospital. The court heard that on January 5th, 2021, the child was found to have a score of nine out of fifteen on the Glasgow Coma Scale.

The scale is used to objectively describe the extent of impaired consciousness in all types of acute medical and trauma patients. Under cross-examination by defence barrister Ray Boland, SC, Dr Govern said that a score of nine means that a patient is quite impaired in terms of a brain injury. She told the jury that a score of less than 8 generally involves the placing of a patient in intensive care.

Dr McGovern said that it was her belief that the child had sustained serious harm. Prosecution barrister Jane Hyland SC said that in Irish law serious harm is defined as an injury that creates a substantial risk of death, or causes serious disfigurement or substantial loss or impairment of mobility of the body or function of a bodily member or organ.

Advertisement

Meanwhile, the jury also heard evidence from creche workers who said that they noticed that the child had bruising on her cheek and forehead. One creche worker said that she rang her manager and, on her advice,e she documented what she had spotted and took photographs of the injuries.

Ireland Trial hears woman faked her own death as she could... Read More

She said that she noticed the bruising on the 15th of December 2020 when the child was dropped off wearing a festive elf outfit. She stated that she felt the bruising was unusual in such a young child.

She gave evidence that when she raised the matter with the mother of the child, she said that it was nothing. No explanation was furnished for the bruising with the creche worker saying that the mother brushed it off.

Another worker present that day said that they noticed a bruise on both the left and right cheek of the child. She said that there was no accident or incident in the creche involving the child, as it would have been documented.

The case will continue on Thursday in front of a jury of seven women and five men.
An Irish woman detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) last month after returning from a visit to Ireland to see her ill father is to be released following a court appearance earlier today.

Cliona Ward, 54, a green-card holder, who has been living legally there for around 30 years, first ran into legal trouble in March after arriving back in the US from a trip to Ireland to visit her father in Youghal, Co Cork who is living with dementia.

Advertisement

Ms Ward, whose green card is valid until 2033, was detained and questioned by customs at the San Francisco airport on March 19th over her past criminal record.

Her prior criminal record includes six cases - two felonies for possession of drugs in December 2007 and January 2008, and four misdemeanours.

She and her sister Orla Holladay, who also lives in the US, claimed her convictions were expunged however, prompting customs to temporarily release her to obtain the appropriate documentation to prove that her records had been cleared in California.

When she went to plead her case at San Francisco airport Customs on April 21st and present proof of her expungement, she was detained once more and told to argue her case in front of an immigration judge.

Advertisement

On Wednesday, Ms Ward's Washington state-based attorney Erin Hall, said that an application was made in California on Friday last for the original convictions to be formally vacated in a manner that would be recognised at a federal level.

A California judge agreed to the application, which allowed Ms Hall to subsequently file a motion to terminate the immigration proceedings.

A GoFundme page has been set up by her sister, Orla to cover legal costs.

Ms Ward, a mother of one son, appeared in court in Seattle at 8.30 am local time (Irish time 4.30 pm) and in an update on the fundraising page, Clionas Hope: A Mothers Fight for Freedom, Ms Hollady said that the charity group her sister works with are organising protests for her preliminary court hearing.

Advertisement

Ms Ward is a caregiver for her son Malachi, who is an American citizen, and chronically ill.

On Wednesday, a judge at the Tacoma Immigration Court signed an order ending the removal proceedings against Ms Ward.

Another sister of Ms Ward, Tracey Ward told RTE that the development is a "huge, huge relief."

"I was trying to maintain hope today but I know how the system works over there so I was very fearful for her. I'm just completely relieved," she said.

"The outpouring of love worldwide that we've received has been absolutely unbelievable.

Democrat California Representatives Jimmy who has supported and been calling for Ms Wards release said in a statement on social media:

"Im proud to share that Cliona Ward, a 30-year legal permanent resident of Santa Cruz County, will be released after being detained and threatened with deportation.
Irish Nationwide Building Society was providing millions of euro in commercial loans and top-ups to clients before its board could approve them, including one to a commercial client who already had an exposure of a quarter of a billion euro at the time of their granted loan for developing luxury holiday residences in France, the High Court has heard.

The civil case against former INBS chief Michael Fingleton is in its second day before the High Court, where it has been alleged that he negligently mismanaged the building society (INBS) and engaged in property "gambles" with high net-worth individuals in an informal and speculative manner.

Advertisement

Mr Fingleton (87), who is in ill health after a stroke, ran the building lender from 1971 to 2009, as managing director and chief executive. At its height in 2007, INBS had reported assets of 16 billion but was a high-profile casualty of the financial crisis of 2008.

Liquidators for IBRC have taken the case against Mr Fingleton, who denies the allegation of negligent mismanagement.

The losses, relating to property loans, had been estimated by the Irish Banking Resolution Corporation (IBRC) at 6 billion. However, only 250 million in damages is now being pursued by IBRC relating to five loans made by INBS, allegedly approved by Mr Fingleton, who the court was told was also nodding through top-ups and extensions to certain clients.

At the High Court on Wednesday, Lyndon MacCann SC, for IBRC, said the building society operated flawed policies, which were then ignored by the lender and made worse by what he called flawed practices.

Advertisement

Mr MacCann said an expert witness for IBRC will give evidence to the court that the level of delegation of power given to Mr Fingleton was hideously flawed.

Counsel said that in one instance, a borrower was approved for a loan of 28 million by Mr Fingleton months before it came before either the board or the credit panel of INBS in January 2009.

The loan was for the purchase of two run-down hotels in the French Alps despite them not having planning permission for a proposed luxury residence development, and the actual application for the loan came before the board after it was already approved.

The court heard that Mr Fingleton nodded through loans, top-ups and loan extensions by phone or by scribbling a note on memos that reached him, as he did not have a computer or email.

Advertisement

Mr MacCann said the France loan, referenced Ice Mountain, was allegedly approved by Mr Fingleton despite the borrowers company and his daughter already having a combined exposure of a third of a billion euro to INBS and that the company was coming in at number seven in a Top of the Pops - at 260 million - of those lenders with the most exposure to the bank.

The court also heard that a different loan for 71 million was topped up by a further 10 million to 81 million, with only Fingletons approval being any record for the expanded loan.

In the case of a separate loan valued at 130 million in 2009, after Mr Fingleton had retired, INBS asked the borrower to repay the outlay. However, the borrower told INBS that the loan had been granted on a non-recourse basis, which was disputed by the society.

The court was told that the borrower provided INBS with a letter from Mr Fingleton allegedly confirming the non-recourse status of the loan, but INBS took legal advice which stated that the loans were of full recourse and that the borrower could indeed be pursued for the money, said counsel.

Advertisement

Mr MacCann described the letter stating the loans were non-recourse was an extraordinary document for Mr Fingleton to write and that a handwriting expert will feature in the case.

In opening the case on Tuesday, Mr MacCann said Mr Fingelton "gambled" with the society's money when he allegedly approved "speculative, risky" commercial loans, which sometimes had already been greenlit by him before they were taken before the board of directors, on which he also sat.

The return on the loans and interest from INBS was that if the properties could get planning permission, they were to be "flipped" for a profit, making it a "joint-venture" for INBS in profit agreements.

Ireland Court hears man accused of murdering his mother se... Read More

The five loans "approved" by Mr Fingleton relate to property land development projects between 2006 and 2008 despite them having no zoning or planning permission, counsel said.

Advertisement

It is further alleged that there was no securities in place on the loans and no personal guarantee sought for or provided by the borrowers.

Mr Fingleton was a prominent presence in Irish business during the Celtic Tiger and was reported to have been worth around 75 million in 2006. However, his son has told the courts that his father is reduced to 25,000 in two personal bank accounts and has outstanding judgment debts of more than 10.7 million.

The case continues at the High Court.
Gerry Adams has claimed allegations made about him in a BBC Spotlight programme undermine progress achieved during the Northern Ireland peace process.

The former Sinn Fein leader was giving evidence on the second week of his High Court action against the BBC, in which he claims a Spotlight programme and a related article published in 2016 defamed him by falsely accusing him of sanctioning the 2006 killing of British agent Denis Donaldson.

Advertisement

The BBC denies it defamed Mr Adams, who insists he had no involvement in Mr Donaldsons death, which dissident republicans claimed responsibility for in 2009.

Continuing his cross-examination of Mr Adams on Wednesday, Paul Gallagher SC, for the BBC, referred to allegations about Mr Adams made in various books and newspapers.

Mr Adams said counsel was attempting to smother the jury with obscure allegations, and that he was trying to persuade the jury that his reputation is useless, that he has no reputation whatsoever.

Mr Adams said that he never sued over previous, repeated claims made that he was a member of the IRA and sat on its army council because he was advised by his solicitors he wouldnt get a fair trial.

Advertisement

The fact he has sued the BBC over the claims made in the Spotlight programme shows how seriously he takes the allegations made in it, Mr Adams said.

He said the inference of the Spotlight programme that his and others efforts to persuade the IRA to end its armed campaign and leave the stage" was a "scam.

Mr Adams continued that the programme inferred the IRA leadership authorised the killing of Mr Donaldson, and they came to him for permission.

I consider that to be a grievous, grievous smear, and could have no other impact on the peace process but to undermine what we have achieved, Mr Adams said.

Advertisement

Mr Adams said that counsel was seeking to persuade the jury that he had no reputation whatsoever because of allegations that he was a member of the IRA and sat on its army council.

Mr Adams barristers objected to Mr Gallaghers questioning during the cross-examination, submitting that material from news articles was being advanced as the truth of their contents.

Mr Justice Alexander Owens reminded the jury that all of this blather about Mr Adams being a member of the army council is not something they have to decide on. He said they were entitled to consider relevant material in the public domain.

Ireland Gerry Adams tells libel case he will not speculat... Read More

Mr Adams later said hed acknowledge that certain allegations made about him were in the public domain for a very, very long time. I dont for a second recognise their accuracy ... in fact I deny them.

Advertisement

Asked if he was appalled by an allegation in an article that he sat on the army council, Mr Adams said he was irritated by it. He said the allegation was getting in the way.

Questioned by Mr Gallagher about a speech he made at Sinn Feins Ard Fheis in 1986  significant for Mr Adams advocating for the party to end its policy of abstentionism  Mr Adams said that he has never purported to speak for the IRA, ever.

The trial continues.
Pharmaceutical imports to the US surged in March as drugmakers stocked up ahead of potential tariffs on their products, which have historically been exempt from such fees.

Total imports of pharmaceutical products exceeded $50 billion in the month  the equivalent of 20 per cent of all pharmaceutical imports in 2024, according to data from a US Commerce Department report on Tuesday.

Advertisement

Imports jumped in particular from Ireland, the top drug exporter to the US. The country had a larger trade surplus than China with the US for the first time in March.

Imports of all goods from Ireland rose by about $15.5 billion from February, with drugs accounting for most of that.

"While we had known consumer goods accounted for the bulk of March's rise, we can now see pharmaceutical products were $20 billion higher  almost all of which were imported from Ireland," Matthew Martin, senior US economist at Oxford Economics, wrote following the report.

President Donald Trump has been threatening to levy tariffs on pharmaceuticals as part of a trade policy he says will increase domestic manufacturing of medicines.

Advertisement

Last month, the Trump administration launched a probe into imports of pharmaceuticals ahead of possibly imposing tariffs on the grounds that extensive reliance on foreign production of medicine is a national security threat.

Trump said on Monday he would make an announcement on the tariffs in the next two weeks. He also issued an executive order aimed at easing the regulatory burden in the US for producing drugs.

Ireland Cork town nervous as Trump seeks to lure pharma in... Read More

In recent months, drugmakers told Reuters they had taken the unusual step of sending more medicines by air to the US. Two of the biggest US drugmakers said on recent investor calls that they had stepped up efforts to bring in inventory as part of their preparation for tariffs.

"As you can imagine, we have done everything that we have to do to make sure that we mitigate, so that includes inventory, of course, and many other things," Pfizer chief executive Albert Bourla said on a company conference call. He said the company was increasing that inventory each month to make sure "we are well positioned."

Advertisement

Merck's primary exposure is through blockbuster cancer drug Keytruda, the world's biggest-selling prescription medicine, much of which is produced in Swords, Co Dublin. The company, which is known as MSD outside North America, said last month it had moved enough inventory to the US to protect it through year-end.

In addition to Ireland and other European Union countries, Oxford's Martin said the countries most at risk from the anticipated drug import levies include Singapore and Switzerland.
An Irish woman detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) last month after returning from a visit to Ireland to see her ill father is due in court on Wednesday.

Cliona Ward, 54, a green-card holder, who has been living legally there for around 30 years, first ran into legal trouble last month after arriving back in the US from a trip to Ireland to visit her father in Youghal, Co Cork, who is living with dementia.

Advertisement

Ms Ward was detained and questioned by customs at the San Francisco airport over her past criminal record, which stretched between 2003 to 2008 and included some charges pertaining to the possession of drugs.

She and her sister Orla Holladay, who also lives in the US, claimed her convictions were expunged however, prompting customs to temporarily release her to obtain the appropriate documentation to prove that her records had been cleared in California.

When she went to plead her case at San Francisco airport Customs in late April and present proof of her expungement, she was detained once more and told to argue her case in front of an immigration judge.

A GoFundme page has been set up by her sister, Orla to cover legal costs.

Advertisement

Ms Ward, a mother of one son, is due in court in Seattle at 8.30 am local time (Irish time 4.30 pm) and in an update on the fundraising page, Clionas Hope: A Mothers Fight for Freedom, Ms Hollady said that the charity group her sister works with are organising protests for her preliminary court hearing.

Ms Ward, a Dublin native, is also a caregiver for her son Malachi who is an American citizen, and chronically ill.

Ms Holladay revealed that her sister has now been moved into a different section of the detention centre.

I just spoke with Cliona, and she is so elevated and empowered by the response that you and the community at large have expressed. She has been moved from what she called a holding cell to an actual unit in the detention center called a pod.

Advertisement

She is building community and support with the women she is in there with and wants to help all of them. I am working with SEIU (union), which Cliona is a member of and pays dues to, on her behalf, they are organising protests for May 7th - her preliminary court hearing.

She said that her sister has urged her to tell you that the service people in the facility are being really nice to her; the people who serve the food, who escort her to go get a shower, who make sure she has clean clothes. She shared she had her first shower in many days today and she felt so good.

Ms Holladay continued: Service workers are making sure that her spirit, and the spirit for all the other women in her "pod" are not broken. She said that the place is clean. It's strange that access to a shower, clean clothes is a blessing but right now it is.

"What I want you to hear is that you are making a difference and lifting not only Cliona, who has been sharing her commissary money and phone time with other women, is making a difference.

Advertisement

Last week, Taoiseach Micheal Martin confirmed that consular assistance is being provided to the Wards. He added that the Government would be supporting the family to get this issue resolved.

Our advice is consistent in terms of, where people have green cards for example or citizenship rights or so on, there shouldn't be an issue, he said, adding that the Government will be pursuing the matter on a bilateral basis with the American administration.

California Congress Democrat Representative Jimmy Panetta, in a statement added: Its unimaginable that a reportedly expunged, 20-year-old incident could be used as justification for deporting a legal permanent resident who is a productive member of our community.

But this is the cruel and unreasonable state of this Administrations deportation policy.
A man who demanded money from his ex-partner's parents, telling them their house would go up like a Christmas tree has been jailed.

Conor Stewart (31) of Kilcross Court, Sandyford, Dublin 18 pleaded guilty to making an unwarranted demand with menace on May 26th, 2024.

Advertisement

Garda Aaron Carney gave evidence that Stewart called to the house in the Sandyford area.

The father of Stewart's former partner opened the door and saw Stewart was on his phone, with the person on the call appearing to tell him what to say.

Stewart told the injured party that his daughter owed a drug debt of 8,000 and said if 4,000 was not paid, the house would go up like a Christmas tree.

The injured party told Stewart to leave, and he did. The entire incident was captured on a camera doorbell.

Advertisement

After his arrest, Stewart was interviewed once and made admissions. He said he was in difficulty and told he had to do it.

He also showed gardai an injury, which he said was part of the difficulties that he himself was in.

Gda Carney said Stewart entered an early guilty plea, which was of value to the prosecution.

Stewart has 84 previous convictions, including for theft, road traffic and drugs offences. He was on bail at the time of this offence and is currently serving a sentence on a separate matter.

Advertisement

Gda Carney agreed with Michael O'Higgins SC, defending, that Stewart's offending was linked to his longstanding drugs addiction.

It was further agreed that Stewart also owed a drugs debt and was never going to get the benefit of the money that he was demanding to be paid.

Gda Carney agreed that it appeared that a third party was giving directions while Stewart was at the house, and the attempt to demand money was intended to mollify the people to whom the money was owed.

Mr O'Higgins asked the court to take into account his client's guilty plea, personal circumstances and the mitigating factors.

Advertisement

Counsel said Stewart recognises that he needs to break the cycle of offending and has signed up for drugs counselling while in custody.

Imposing sentence, Judge Orla Crowe said Stewart issued a serious threat at the home of someone he knew.

Ireland Father lost control when headbutting GAA coach at... Read More

She said this was a one-off incident, and that Stewart left when the injured party told him. The judge added this would have been a frightening experience for the innocent injured party.

Judge Crowe noted that to go and demand money and make threats of that nature is inherently lawless.

She imposed a sentence of two years and three months, with the final nine months suspended for two years, to run consecutive to the sentence Stewart is currently serving.

The judge also directed Stewart to place himself under the supervision of the Probation Services for 12 months post-release.
A Limerick man who was caught by gardai with over 17,000 worth of cocaine hidden in his underwear has been jailed for six years with the final year suspended.

Evan McNamara (31), of St Columcille Street, St Marys Park, Limerick, produced a cling-film wrapped package from his underwear containing 17,367 of cocaine, cash and a mobile phone when he was stopped and searched by gardai at Dublin Road in Limerick on March 5th, 2023.

Advertisement

McNamara, a father of three, told gardai he was moving the drugs for others that he did not identify, in order to help clear a 70,000 personal cocaine debt he had amassed to criminals.

He claimed he had been under pressure to move the drugs and that he did so out of fear for the safety of his family.

Sentencing judge Colin Daly said: Gardai do not believe this and believe that he [McNamara] was more heavily involved in the sale and supply of drugs.

During a follow-up search of McNamaras home on March 16th, 2023, gardai recovered benzocaine, a cocaine cutting agent. McNamara also took responsibility for a further 9,121 of cocaine found in a subsequent search of his parents home at Flood Street, Killalee, the court heard.

Advertisement

Prosecuting counsel John OSullivan BL said gardai believe McNamara was heavily involved in the sale and supply of drugs in the St Marys Park area of Limerick.

The court heard McNamara is his mothers carer and is in receipt of a carers allowance.

Judge Daly said McNamara had 10 previous convictions, including eight for road traffic offences and two for possessing small quantities of drugs for his own use.

Ireland Man jailed for helping Brazilian cartel smuggle co... Read More

McNamara pleaded guilty before Limerick Circuit Criminal Court to one count of possessing cocaine worth over 13,000 for sale/supply; to one count of possessing cocaine, and to two counts of possessing benzocaine.

Advertisement

His barrister, senior counsel Lorcan Connolly, said McNamara had made efforts to change his life and had engaged with community employer Limerick City Build, founded by businessman Ray OHalloran.

Judge Daly said he satisfied it would have been unjust to impose the presumptive mandatory minimum 10-year sentence for possessing drugs worth more than 13,000, as McNamara had no prior convictions for drugs sale/supply and his guilty pleas were of assistance to the State.

Judge Daly imposed consecutive sentences of three-and-a-half years and two-and-a-half years with the final 12 months suspended for a period of six years, and entered McNamara into a bond which would trigger the activation of the suspended 12 months if he is convicted of any other offence within the next six years.
An Bord Pleanala has given the green light to the operator of Dublin Airport, daa, for a planned expansion of the airports existing US Customs Pre-Clearance and Border Protection facility.

The grant of permission by An Bord Pleanala overturns a planning refusal by Fingal Co Council for the planned extension issued in July 2023.

Advertisement

The Council refused planning permission to daa for the expanded CBP after finding that the proposal would be premature pending the determination by the road authority of the detailed road network to serve the area.

In response, daa lodged an appeal with its consultants, Coakley ONeill hitting out at the Council refusal describing it as entirely unexpected, totally unreasonable and unjustified.

Now, almost two years on, the appeals board has granted planning permission for the facility which daa first proposed to deal with the chronic congestion' at the existing CBP facility.

In a statement daa stated that it welcomes An Bord Pleanalas decision to grant permission, (after Fingal County Council refused) to extend the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) area at Dublin Airport.

Advertisement

Daa stated that Dublin Airport is the fifth largest hub for transatlantic connectivity in Europe and ABP recognised that the extension would promote Dublin Airport's status as a secondary hub, improving international connectivity and competitiveness in line with local, regional and national policy".

The airport operator stated that Dublin Airport can now get on with improving the area for a better passenger experience.

In its decision, the appeals board also concluded that the proposal would not give rise to unacceptable impacts on traffic safety and convenience during the construction phase and operation and would not detract from the visual amenities or character of the area.

A consultants report lodged with the application in May 2023 outlined the capacity difficulties that the existing CBP presented.

Advertisement

The Coakley ONeill report told the Council that the CBP overflow queuing system was required to be used five out of every seven days in the Summer of 2022 and was projected to be required even more in Summer 2023.

They stated that the overflow queuing system is technically and logistically complex and cumbersome.

Coakley ONeill stated that is is therefore the case that the current CBP facility does not have the capacity to cater for the existing passengers.

Coakley ONeill stated that the proposed development is undeniably needed to ensure the efficient, comfortable and safe operation of the CBP facility at Dublin airport.

The CBP facilities at Dublin and Shannon airports allow US bound passengers to undertake all US immigration, customs and agriculture inspections at the airports prior to departure.

The CBP facilities at Dublin and Shannon airports gives the airports a competitive advantage over most other airports operating services to the US as passengers who clear pre-clearance at Dublin and Shannon airports are treated as domestic arrivals on arrival in the US, allowing them to avoid immigration queues upon arrival and pick up their bags and go.
No explanation has yet been provided why a leading loyalist had firearms and ammunition in the boot of his car, a court has been told.

However, a barrister for Winston Irvine said his long-term commitment to peace-building in Northern Ireland should be taken into account when he is sentenced for weapons offences.

Advertisement

Irvine, 49, of Ballysillan Road in north Belfast and co-accused Robin Workman, 54, of Shore Road in Larne, County Antrim were both remanded in custody following a sentencing hearing at Belfast Crown Court on Wednesday.

The sentencing hearing took place at Belfast Crown Court. Photo: Liam McBurney/PA.

They had previously admitted possession of a firearm and ammunition in suspicious circumstances.

They also admitted two counts of possessing a handgun without a certificate, one count of possessing ammunition without a certificate, possessing a prohibited weapon and possessing a firearm without a certificate.

Workman further pleaded guilty to possessing a .177 calibre air rifle without holding a firearm certificate.

Advertisement

The court heard that the offences were committed on June 8th 2022.

A prosecuting barrister said that Workman transported a quantity of weapons and ammunition to the Glencairn area of Belfast in his van, which were then put into the boot of Irvines Volkswagen Tiguan car.

A short time later Irvines vehicle was stopped by police in Disraeli Street.

A long-barrelled firearm, two suspected pistols, several magazines and a large quantity of ammunition were discovered inside a bag in the boot.

Advertisement

The barrister said that during police interview Irvine had given a statement outlining his work as a community representative and interlocutor.

The court was told that a UVF magazine was discovered during a subsequent police search of Workmans house.

The barrister said: No explanation has been forthcoming to this day about what was going on with these firearms.

He said there was no evidence that they had been intended for terrorist use.

Advertisement

Brenda Campbell KC, representing Irvine, said he had a proven long-term commitment to peace-building in Northern Ireland.

She told the court he had directly engaged with a number of groups, including the UK and Irish governments, over the years.

Ms Campbell said a number of references had been provided for Irvine, including from David Campbell, chairman of the Loyalist Communities Council (LCC).

She said Mr Campbell had described Irvine as a key figure in discussions within the loyalist community in moving away from paramilitarism.

Advertisement

The barrister added: At critical junctures he has brought people away from violence to peace.

Winston Irvine was told he would be sentenced next week. Photo: Liam McBurney/PA.

She said he had only been in possession of the low grade firearms for a few minutes and there was no evidence of violent or terrorist intent.

Ms Campbell said: The possession of these items ought not to hold this man back from making a continued contribution in the not-too-distant future.

Michael Borrelli KC, representing Workman, said his client was occasionally asked to undertake work as a messenger to prevent problematical situations.

He told the court that he had been asked to transport a bag in his vehicle, and became suspicious when he picked it up that it contained firearms.

The barrister said when his client saw Irvine in Belfast it confirmed his belief that the weapons were to be taken out of circulation.

Ireland Gerry Adams says Spotlight allegations undermine p... Read More

In response, the prosecuting barrister said there was no evidential basis for the contention that the weapons were to be taken out of commission.

Judge Gordon Kerr KC said he would pass sentence in the case next Thursday.

However, he said he was satisfied that the custodial threshold had been met and ordered the two defendants to be remanded in custody.
A PSNI officer has had his foot broken during disorder involving young people in Belfast.

A senior officer said the incident happened during an attempt to apprehend a suspect after a large piece of metal was thrown at a moving police vehicle.

Advertisement

The incident occurred in the Roden Street area in the south of the city on Monday.

Officer injured during south Belfast disorder https://t.co/tHTA4WasBL pic.twitter.com/l81SAVzjx6  Police South Belfast (@PSNIBelfastS) May 6, 2025

Inspector Roisin Brown said: At approximately 8.15pm, officers deployed to the Roden Street area in response to reports of young people engaged in disorder and anti-social behaviour.

During the incident, a large piece of metal was thrown at a marked police vehicle, narrowly missing the windscreen.

The police vehicle was being driven at the time.

Advertisement

When police attempted to apprehend a suspect, one neighbourhood officer sustained a broken foot.

He is receiving support but will be unable to carry out duties for a considerable amount of time whilst he recovers.

Ms Brown said the incident occurred at a time when the PSNI is stretched, and would result in one less neighbourhood officer being available in south Belfast.

She added: A 16-year-old male was detained at the scene and police will be pursuing a criminal justice outcome in relation to this incident.

Advertisement

Assaults on our officers are completely unacceptable, and have lasting impacts physically and psychologically.

Protecting the community we serve is important to us and injuries like this are not just part of the job.

Ireland PSNI chief constable concerned over lack of Cathol... Read More

I am once again asking parents and guardians to also speak to their young people. Know where they are, and help us by preventing them from engaging in behaviour which could result in injury or a criminal record.

We ask anyone who sees any anti-social behaviour in the area, to contact 101 or 999 in an emergency.

Advertisement

Assaults on police pose a serious threat to the vital service police provide, and we will continue work with the Police Federation for Northern Ireland to support our officers.
Here, we have a look at the topics likely to dominate political discourse in the week to come.

Browne under fire over 'housing tsar' plan

Housing is the big item on the agenda this week, with the Government and Minister for Housing James Browne under fire over the plan to appoint a 'housing tsar'.

Advertisement

The collapse of plans to appoint Nama chief Brendan McDonagh as the Governments new housing tsar has led to tension within the Coalition, while the Opposition has been highly critical of Mr Browne and the plan in the Dail today.

The Minister remains insistent that the housing tsar plan will go ahead.

In the Dail on Wednesday, Labour called on Mr Browne to appear to take questions on the matter.

People Before Profit TD Ruth Coppinger accused him of hiding from the issue.

Advertisement

"We don't need a housing tsar to tell us that there's public land that could be developed, you don't need a housing tsar to allocate money for that. Also the Housing Minister, who has become practically invisible, there are search parties at this stage looking for him. I don't think anybody knows who he is."

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said it is still unclear what will happen to the 430,000 salary earmarked for Mr McDonagh, who is no longer taking up the role.

Ms McDonald said: "You of course drafted the legislation making it clear that all Nama executives will go to the resolution unit in the NTMA [National Treasury Management Agency] and that therefore all of them will retain their pay and conditions.

"This must include Mr McDonagh, so the labyrinth of contradiction prompts people to ask what the hell is going on here, people catch the stink of something rotten."

Advertisement

Mr Browne said he expects whoever becomes the housing tsar will declare their property interests before taking up the role.

Mr McDonagh withdrew his name from consideration to become the new chief executive of the Housing Activation Office last week, following controversy over his appointment.

The Ditch reported a four bedroom house he jointly owns was advertised on a short term letting sight for over 10,000 a week.

Mr Browne said he expects the person who eventually takes up the role to be transparent.

Advertisement

"I expect anybody who will be offered the role will be forthright in their situation. This is not an overseeing body, it's actually boots on the ground, that's very much where my focus will be.

"And when I do identify that person, in agreement with the leader, that will be somebody who can activate sites on the ground because that is so important."

Labour TD Conor Sheehan said Mr Browne should be paying more attention to recommendations set out in the Housing Commissions latest report.

"I can't understand, for the life of me, why the Government won't take this recommendation on in full instead of introducing this relatively toothless, halfway measure which will amount to little more than a week on, week off for the Housing Minsiter."

Advertisement

Meanwhile, Mr Browne has denied claims he has been "invisible" in his first 100 days in office.

Mr Browne said he has been meeting all the relevant bodies in his first few months, and his sole aim is to build more houses.

"I've had an extraordinary amount of meetings with stakeholders. I think I've done what you're supposed to do rather than going out and making loads of statements, and actually engaging with all the stakeholders.

"The first group I met were the homeless organisations, I've met the construction industry, association housing bodies, the county councils and everybody involved in this."

Taoiseach received positive messages on Trump meeting

The majority of messages Taoiseach Micheal Martin received received from the public about his White House meeting with US president Donald Trump were positive.

People were generally positive about Mr Martin's Oval Office meeting with Mr Trump in messages, seen by BreakingNews.ie following a Freedom of Information request.

The annual St Patrick's Day meeting took place on Wednesday, March 12th.

The Taoiseach's Office received many messages on the meeting on the day and the following week.

One message, sent hours after the meeting, read: "Just a very quick message to say congratulations on a very impressive performance in the Oval Office today. It can't have been an easy experience and I offer you my thanks on a job well done. No doubt there will be the usual criticisms in the Dail and media but I for one send on my congratulations and thanks."

Another message told Mr Martin that he "played a blinder with that nut in the Oval Office".

MEP argues food security is central to European defence

Fianna Fail MEP Barry Cowen has unveiled a new position paper outlining his vision for the future of European farming and the next Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) post-2027.

In the paper, seen by BreakingNews.ie, Mr Cowen argues that in a new era of heightened security concerns, food security must be recognised as a core pillar of Europe's strategic defence, with agriculture "deserving a protected share of broader security spending".

Abroad

Ireland Leo Varadkar meets Mike Pence after he receives aw... Read More

Joe Biden has said in his first post-presidential interview that US president Donald Trumps pressure on Ukraine to give up territory to Russia amounted to modern-day appeasement.

The historically fraught term used by the former US president refers to a failed effort to stop the Nazis from annexing land in Europe in the 1930s.

Friedrich Merz plunged straight into international crises on his first full day as Germanys new chancellor on Wednesday, urging India and Pakistan to de-escalate their tensions, vowing support for Ukraine and announcing plans to travel to Kyiv soon.

Mr Merz and French president Emmanuel Macron  both firm believers in the European Union  used their first meeting since the German leaders appointment on Tuesday to present a united front in the face of US president Donald Trumps trade war, Russian aggression in Ukraine and other issues causing alarm in Europe.
Prosecutors are to appeal against a seven-year sentence handed to a pensioner who exploited vulnerable young women by supplying them with heroin in exchange for them working as prostitutes.

Oliver James MacCormack, 71, was sentenced at Belfast Crown Court last month, having previously pleaded guilty to 40 offences, including charges of human trafficking and controlling prostitution.

Advertisement

He also admitted a charge of perverting the course of justice, witness intimidation and offences of supplying class A drugs.

Northern Irelands Director of Public Prosecutions Stephen Herron is to refer the sentence imposed by judge Gordon Kerr KC to the Court of Appeal on the grounds that it was unduly lenient.

A PPS spokesperson said: While sentencing is a matter for the independent judiciary, the Director of Public Prosecutions does have the power to refer particular sentences to the Court of Appeal on the grounds that they may be unduly lenient.

An unduly lenient sentence is one that falls outside the range of sentences that a judge, taking into consideration all relevant factors and having regard to sentencing guidance, could reasonably impose.

Advertisement

The sentence must not just be lenient, but unduly lenient.

We recognise the significant public interest in this case.

However, it is important to underline that the PPS can only refer a sentence to the Court of Appeal for consideration when there is a legal ground to do so.

After careful consideration of the sentence handed down in the case of Oliver MacCormack, including with the benefit of advice from independent senior counsel, we have determined that there is a sufficient legal basis to refer the sentence to the Court of Appeal.

Advertisement

We have taken steps to inform the victims and the next of kin of the deceased victim of the decision to refer the sentence.

We will keep them informed of the outcome of the Court of Appeals consideration.

There were nine victims involved in the case, some as young as 17 at the time of the offences.

One has since died of sepsis due to intravenous drug use.

Advertisement

Ireland No explanation why weapons were in boot of loyalis... Read More

The victims had vulnerabilities including drug addiction, homelessness and mental health issues.

MacCormack was the fourth man to be sentenced following a sexual exploitation investigation conducted by the PSNIs modern slavery and human trafficking unit.

At sentencing, the court heard the victims were heroin addicts and MacCormack would exploit their vulnerability to force them into prostitution in exchange for him supplying them with drugs.
A woman is due before the courts on Wednesday morning charged in connection with the 2023 Dublin riots.

Eight other people have been arrested in the past few days as part of the investigation.

Advertisement

Gardai said they arrested nine people between Sunday and Tuesday as part of their investigation into the riots that broke out in Dublin city centre in November 2023.

Of those questioned, three were women, four were men and two boys.

Two of the women were charged and released on station bail to appear in court at a later date.

A third woman is due before the District Court on Wednesday morning charged with arson to a Dublin bus on O'Connell Street.

The two boys have been released and files are being sent to the Director of the Youth Diversion

Programme.

Four men were released without charge and files are being sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

To date, 85 people have been arrested in connection with the Dublin riots and 66 have been charged.

Gardai said 24 people were arrested following a media identification appeal that happened late last year.
Actor Michael Pitt, known for his TV roles in Boardwalk Empire and Dawsons Creek, has been accused of sexually assaulting his ex-girlfriend, choking her, and attacking her with a cinder block and a piece of wood at his New York City home, according to a grand jury indictment.

Pitt, 44, whose lawyers denied the allegations, was arrested on Friday on nine counts including first-degree sexual abuse, criminal sexual acts, assault, attempted assault and strangulation.

Advertisement

The indictment cites four incidents between April 2020 and August 2021 at Pitts home in the Bushwick area of Brooklyn.

Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalezs office declined to comment on Wednesday beyond the allegations listed in the indictment.

Pitts lawyer, Jason Goldman, said he already had exonerating evidence and expected the case to be dismissed.

Unfortunately, we live in a world where somebody like Mr Pitt  an accomplished professional who would never so much as contemplate these crimes  can be arrested on the uncorroborated word of an unreliable individual, Mr Goldman said in a text message to The Associated Press.

Advertisement

He added: In reality, this baseless claim is suspiciously raised some four or five years after the alleged incident, from a time when the two parties were in a completely consensual relationship.

Pitt pleaded not guilty to the charges on Friday and posted 100,000 dollars bail, Goldman said. He is due back in court in Brooklyn on June 17.

The Associated Press does not typically name people who say they have been sexually abused unless they come forward publicly, which the woman in Pitts case has not done.

The indictment alleges Pitt forcibly touched his ex-girlfriend sexually in April 2020. In August 2020, the grand jury alleges Pitt forced oral sex on the woman and assaulted her with a four-inch-by-four-inch piece of wood.

Advertisement

The indictment also says Pitt attacked her with a cinder block twice in June 2021 and choked her in August 2021.

TMZ reported in 2022 that Pitt was arrested in Brooklyn for allegedly punching a man after taking his phone and, two months later, was brought to hospital under police escort after a public outburst in New York.

Pitt, who grew up in New Jersey, played the character Jimmy Darmody for two seasons on HBOs Boardwalk Empire, with the cast led by Steve Buscemi winning Screen Actors Guild Awards in 2011 and 2012 for outstanding performance by an ensemble in a drama series. The show also won a Golden Globe for best drama series in 2011.

His first major role came in the 2001 film Hedwig and the Angry Inch. In 2005, he starred in Last Days, director Gus Van Sants film about a fictional rock star inspired by Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain.

Advertisement

He also played Henry Parker in one season of The WBs Dawsons Creek in 1999-2000.
Joe Biden has said in his first post-presidential interview that US president Donald Trumps pressure on Ukraine to give up territory to Russia amounted to modern-day appeasement.

The historically fraught term used by the former US president refers to a failed effort to stop the Nazis from annexing land in Europe in the 1930s.

Advertisement

Mr Biden told the Today programme on BBC Radio 4 that Mr Trumps statements about acquiring Panama, Greenland and Canada had bred distrust in Europe.





What president ever talks like that? Mr Biden said.

Thats not who we are. Were about freedom, democracy, opportunity  not about confiscation.

He also said it was a difficult decision to leave the US presidential race in 2024, four months from election day, to allow former vice president Kamala Harris to challenge Mr Trump.

Advertisement

But he added that making that move earlier as some critics had suggested would(nt) have mattered.



US president Donald Trump has long dismissed the war in Ukraine as a waste of lives and American taxpayers money (Mark Schiefelbein/AP)

The term appeasement refers to former British prime minister Neville Chamberlains efforts in the 1930s to appease Adolf Hitlers moves to annex land in Europe, which failed to prevent the Second World War.

Mr Trump has long dismissed the war in Ukraine as a waste of lives and American taxpayers money.

Early in his presidency, Mr Trump ordered a pause in American aid to Ukraine  then resumed it.

Advertisement

The two countries last week signed an agreement granting American access to Ukraines vast mineral resources  a return on investment, Mr Trump suggested, that could pave the way for more US aid.





He has also said that Crimea, a strategic peninsula along the Black Sea in southern Ukraine that was illegally annexed by Russia in 2014, will stay with Russia.

Mr Biden said he worried that relations between the US and Europe were eroding under Mr Trump, with Nato member nations reconsidering whether they trusted America.

Europe is going to lose confidence in the certainty of America and the leadership of America, Mr Biden told the BBC.

Advertisement

The continents leaders, he added, were asking: Can I rely on the United States? Are they going to be there?'

Of special concern, Mr Biden said, was the administrations proposal to let Russia keep some Ukrainian territory in an effort to strike a peace deal that would put an end to fighting.





It is modern-day appeasement, Mr Biden said.

Mr Biden said Mr Trumps treatment of Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office in February was beneath America.

Advertisement

I dont understand how they fail to understand that theres strength in alliances, Mr Biden said of the Trump administration on Monday.

Asked about Mr Trumps triumphant celebration of his first 100 days in office, Mr Biden replied that he would let history render the judgment.

I dont see anything that was triumphant, he said.
A fighter jet landing on the USS Harry S Truman aircraft carrier in the Red Sea went overboard, forcing its two pilots to eject, according to a defence official.

The incident on Tuesday, involving an F/A-18 aircraft, marks the latest mishap to mar the deployment of the Truman, which has been essential in the airstrike campaign by the United States against Yemens Houthi rebels.

Advertisement

On Tuesday, US president Donald Trump and Omans foreign minister both said a ceasefire had been reached with the Houthis, who would no longer target ships in the Red Sea corridor  something not immediately acknowledged by the rebels.

Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell wrote on social platform X that an investigation was under way and that this aircraft was not struck by the Houthis.

The Harry S Truman Carrier Strike Group remains fully mission-capable, he added.

Meanwhile, the Houthis continue to assess the damage after daytime Israeli airstrikes targeted Yemens rebel-held capital of Sanaa.

Advertisement



Smoke billowing from a civilian aircraft after Israeli airstrikes on Sanaa International Airport in Yemen (Courtesy of Ansar Allah Media Office via AP)

The F/A-18 Super Hornet landed on the Truman after a flight, but the arrestment failed, the official told The Associated Press.

Arrestment refers to the hook system used by aircraft landing on carriers, which catches steel wire ropes on the flight deck. It remains unclear what part of the system failed.

The two pilots on board were later rescued by a helicopter and suffered minor injuries in the incident, the official added. No-one on the flight deck was hurt.

CNN first reported the incident.

Advertisement





Tuesdays incident was the latest to see the US navy lose an F/A-18, which costs about 60 million US dollars (45 million). In April, another F/A-18 fighter jet slipped off the hangar deck of the Truman and fell into the Red Sea. The crew members who were in the pilot seat of the Super Hornet and on the small towing tractor both jumped away.

In December, the guided-missile cruiser the USS Gettysburg mistakenly shot down an F/A-18 after ships earlier shot down multiple Houthi drones and an anti-ship cruise missile launched by the rebels. Both aviators in that incident also survived.

And in February, the Truman collided with a merchant vessel near Port Said in Egypt.

The Truman, based out of Norfolk, Virginia, has seen its deployment extended multiple times amid the Houthi airstrike campaign. It had been joined recently by the USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier operating out of the Arabian Sea.

Advertisement



A Yemeni officer inspects the wreckage of a civilian aircraft after Israeli airstrikes on Sanaa International Airport (Osamah Abdulrahman/AP)

The Israeli attack on Tuesday that targeted Sanaa International Airport devastated the airfield.

Khaled al-Shaif, the head of the airport, told the Houthis al-Masirah satellite news channel that the Israeli strike had destroyed the airports terminal and left craters in its runway.

At least six passenger planes were struck, including three belonging to Yemenia Airways, the countrys flag-carrying airline, he said.

This left the airline with only one functional aircraft, which was spared only because it had left earlier in the day on a flight to Amman, Jordan.

Advertisement



Khaled al-Shaif, the head of the airport, said the Israeli strike had destroyed the sites terminal and left craters in its runway (Osamah Abdulrahman/AP)

He put the overall damage at 500 million US dollars (374 million).

With the damage, the airport was now out of service, al-Shaif said.

The Houthis had been waging persistent missile and drone attacks against commercial and military ships in the region in what the groups leadership has described as an effort to end Israels war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

From November 2023 until January 2025, the Houthis targeted more than 100 merchant vessels with missiles and drones, sinking two of them and killing four sailors. This has greatly reduced the flow of trade through the Red Sea corridor, which typically sees one trillion US dollars of goods move through it annually.

The Houthis paused attacks in a self-imposed ceasefire until the US launched a broad assault against the rebels in mid-March.
Days into Harvey Weinsteins first sexual assault trial in 2020, prosecutors privately spoke for the first time with a former model who alleged that he had forced oral sex on her.

But that jury was never told about Kaja Sokolas claim. Prosecutors have said they still were investigating the allegation when film tycoon Weinstein was convicted in February 2020 of charges based on other womens accusations.

Advertisement

On Wednesday, Ms Sokola began to tell a new jury her story.

Ms Sokola did not look at Weinstein as she walked past him and into the witness box in a Manhattan court where he is on trial again.

An appeals court overturned his 2020 rape and sexual assault conviction, sending those charges back for retrial, and prosecutors subsequently added another sexual assault charge based on Ms Sokolas allegations.



Kaja Sokola at the premiere of She Said in 2022 (Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP)

As she began giving evidence about her life before the alleged 2006 assault, Weinstein looked towards her, with his right hand across his mouth.

Advertisement

Weinstein, 73, has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. His lawyers contend that his accusers consented to sexual encounters with him in hopes of getting film and TV opportunities, and the defence has emphasised that the women stayed in contact with him for a while after the alleged assaults.

The women, meanwhile, say the Oscar-winning producer used the prospect of show business work to prey on them.

The Polish-born Ms Sokola, 39, sued Weinstein after industry whispers about his behaviour toward women became a chorus of public accusations in 2017, fuelling the MeToo movement and its calls for accountability for sexual misconduct.

Prosecutors have said Ms Sokola eventually received 3.5 million dollars (2.63 million) in compensation.

Advertisement

She was introduced to Weinstein while on a modelling trip to New York in 2002, when she was 16, according to prosecutors.

In her lawsuits, Ms Sokola said that shortly after she met Weinstein, he invited her to lunch to discuss her career but then sexually assaulted her. The lawsuits alleged he sexually harassed and emotionally abused her for years afterwards.

The criminal charge stems from one instance when Ms Sokola maintains that Weinstein forcibly performed oral sex on her in a Manhattan hotel in May 2006.

Prosecutors have said it happened after Weinstein arranged for Ms Sokola to be an extra in the film The Nanny Diaries and met her visiting older sister, whom she was trying to impress.

Advertisement

She was proud of knowing him, her sister, cardiologist Dr Ewa Sokola, told jurors on Wednesday.

She said the three of them met in a hotel lobby, chatted for about an hour about Italian movies and the heavyset Weinsteins heart health, and then he and the model left the table together.

Kaja Sokola was tense when she returned about half an hour later  like somebody waiting for the result of an exam or the Oscars  but did not say anything about the alleged sexual assault, Dr Sokola told jurors.



Dr Ewa Sokola arrives in court in Manhattan on Wednesday (Spencer Platt/Pool Photo via AP)

She said she was shocked to learn about the claim over a decade later, when she read about it in a magazine article.

Advertisement

Weinsteins lawyers will get a chance to question Kaja Sokola in the coming days.

In an opening statement last month, defence lawyer Arthur Aidala questioned why she waited years to come forward. Prosecutors have argued that accusers were reluctant to speak up because of Weinsteins wealth and influence.

Prosecutors have said Ms Sokolas lawyers contacted them on the eve of Weinsteins first trial to say she was willing to be interviewed. Prosecutors have said they soon spoke to her and began investigating, but did not initially pursue charges because Weinstein was convicted and the coronavirus pandemic loomed.

They revived the Sokola investigation after New Yorks highest court reversed Weinsteins conviction.

Weinsteins lawyers fought unsuccessfully to keep Ms Sokolas allegation out of the retrial. They accused prosecutors of smuggling an additional charge into the case for the improper purpose of bolstering the credibility of other accusers.

One of the others, Miriam Haley, testified last week that Weinstein forced oral sex on her in 2006. The third accuser in the case, Jessica Mann, is expected to testify later.

The Associated Press generally does not name sexual assault accusers without their permission, which Ms Haley, Ms Mann and Ms Sokola have given.
India has launched missiles into Pakistani territory in retaliation for a gun massacre on tourists in April. Pakistans leader condemned the strikes and vowed his country would deliver a robust response.

The missile launch, and Pakistans promise to hit back, have stoked fears of a war between the nuclear-armed neighbours. But Wednesdays early morning strikes show that India can hurt Pakistan without entering its airspace or deploying nuclear weapons.

Advertisement

A look at what might lie ahead for the two rivals:

 Both have nuclear weapons, but as a deterrent

India and Pakistan have built up nuclear arsenals over the years. But their purpose is to stop wars, not start them.





India has a no first use policy. This means it will only retaliate with nuclear weapons if there is a nuclear attack on Indian forces or Indian territories.

Pakistans policy is to use tactical nuclear weapons to counter nuclear threats and conventional military attacks from its bigger, stronger and richer regional rival.

Advertisement

Pakistan has not ruled out using nuclear weapons first if it feels an existential threat. But it can ill afford to initiate such a war with India because of its neighbours superior firepower. Pakistan has lost three conventional wars in the past.

South Asia analyst Michael Kugelman said the Wednesday morning strikes were some of the highest-intensity from India on its rival in years and that Pakistans response would surely pack a punch as well.





Indias strike on Pakistan is of much greater scale than the one in 2019. Pakistans response, which according to many reports included downing several Indian jets, has also exceeded the scale of 2019.

Theyre already higher up the escalatory ladder than any time in 19 crisis.  Michael Kugelman (@MichaelKugelman) May 6, 2025

These are two strong militaries that, even with nuclear weapons as a deterrent, are not afraid to deploy sizeable levels of conventional military force against each other, Mr Kugelman said.

The escalation risks are real. And they could well increase, and quickly.

Advertisement

 Neither has details about the others arsenal

Neither country knows what nuclear weapons the other has or how many. India conducted its first nuclear test in 1974. Pakistan carried out its first in 1988.

Think tanks suggest Pakistan has 170 warheads while India has 172. Some analyses indicate Pakistan could have more, around 200. Pakistan holds its nuclear arsenal to deter India from invasion or massive attack.



Firefighters douse smoke coming from the debris of an aircraft near Akhnoor on the outskirts of Jammu in India on Wednesday (Channi Anand/AP)

In the current situation, it is up to Pakistan to decide how it fights back without provoking India further and without starting something it cannot win. So far, it claims to have shot down several Indian jets in retaliation.

Despite decades of hostility and suspicion, India and Pakistan are signatories to a pact that bars them from attacking each others nuclear facilities. As part of the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear Installations and Facilities, the two sides exchange lists of their nuclear facilities and installations each January. They have exchanged lists for 34 consecutive years.

Advertisement

But neither country is a signatory to the global Non-Proliferation Treaty aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons technology.

 Both prefer limited strikes on specific targets

Flare-ups between India and Pakistan have seen precision attacks and reprisals, escalating slowly while giving each side the option to defuse. Border skirmishes are common.

India has been under huge domestic pressure to respond this time because the victims in last months gun massacre were civilians. It said its armed forces targeted sites used by militants linked to the attack on tourists.



Residents stand outside a mosque at an Islamic seminary partially damaged by a suspected Indian missile attack on the outskirts of Bahawalpur in Pakistan on Wednesday (Asim Tanveer/AP)

In 2019, after a suicide car bombing, there was a predawn airstrike from India that it said targeted a terrorist training camp in Pakistan.

Advertisement

Pakistan later claimed to have shot down two Indian warplanes in Kashmir and captured a pilot. The pilot was eventually released and the situation began to normalise. But the episode showed India was willing to enter Pakistani airspace and launch strikes, setting a new threshold for retaliation.

Skirmishes and strikes have so far been contained to border areas including the Line of Control, the de facto frontier dividing Kashmir.

The tactic carries the risk of miscalculation because any casualties, especially civilian ones, could aggravate domestic sentiment on either side.

 The international community wants restraint

With wars escalating in the Middle East, the international community does not want conflict in South Asia.



The debris of an aircraft in the compound of a mosque at Pampore in Pulwama district in Indian-controlled Kashmir on Wednesday (Dar Yasin/AP)

United States secretary of state Marco Rubio has repeated his calls for India and Pakistan to calm things down, while United Nations secretary-general Antonio Guterres has expressed his concern about Indian military operations. He has called for maximum restraint.

Both India and Pakistan have moved swiftly to highlight their diplomatic engagement in the region, issuing statements pointing to their alliances and position on the world stage.

US president Donald Trump, who previously said America would not get involved in mediation, said he wanted things to end quickly.

I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. Theyve been fighting for a long time. Theyve been fighting for many, many decades. I just hope it ends very quickly, he said.
US President Donald Trump has said his administration will soon have more to say on a plan for Gaza  which may include a new push for a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, the release of hostages and an influx of aid to Palestinians.

Youll be knowing probably in the next 24 hours, Mr Trump told reporters in the Oval Office.

Advertisement

It came after officials in Gaza said Israeli strikes across the region killed at least 92 people, including women, children and a local journalist, as Israel prepares to ramp up its campaign in the strip, with the war now entering its 20th month.

Two Israeli airstrikes on Wednesday in central Gaza killed at least 33 people and wounded 86, including several children, though the actual death toll is likely higher, according to health officials.

Wednesdays strikes included two attacks on a crowded market area in Gaza City, health officials said.

The strikes included one attack on Tuesday night on a school sheltering hundreds of displaced Palestinians, which killed 27 people, officials from the Al-Aqsa Hospital said, including nine women and three children.

Advertisement

It was the fifth time since the war began that the school has been struck.

An early morning strike on another school-turned-shelter in Gaza City killed 16 people, according to officials at Al-Ahli Hospital, while strikes on targets in other areas killed at least 16 others.



A makeshift tent camp for displaced Palestinians in Gaza City (Jehad Alshrafi/AP)

A large column of smoke rose and fires pierced the dark skies above the school shelter in Bureij, a built-up urban refugee camp in central Gaza. Paramedics and rescuers rushed to pull people out from the blaze.

The Israeli military had no immediate comment on the strikes.

Advertisement

Israel blames Hamas for the death toll because it operates from civilian infrastructure, including schools.

The new bloodshed comes days after Israel approved a plan to intensify its operations in the Palestinian enclave, which would include seizing Gaza, holding on to captured territories, forcibly displacing Palestinians to southern Gaza and taking control of aid distribution along with private security companies.

Israel is also calling up tens of thousands of reserve soldiers to carry out the plan.

Israel says the plan will be gradual and will not be implemented until after Mr Trump wraps up his visit to the region later this month.

Advertisement



Destroyed buildings in the Gaza Strip, as seen from southern Israel (Ohad Zwigenberg/AP)

Any escalation of fighting would be likely to drive up the death toll.

And with Israel already controlling some 50% of Gaza, increasing its hold on the territory, for an indefinite amount of time, could open up the potential for a military occupation, which would raise questions about how Israel plans to have the territory governed, especially at a time when it is considering how to implement Mr Trumps vision to take over Gaza.

The war began when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking about 250 hostages.

Israels offensive has killed more than 52,000 people in Gaza, many of them women and children, according to Palestinian health officials. The officials do not distinguish between combatants and civilians in their count.

Advertisement

Mr Trump stunned many in Israel on Tuesday when he declared that only 21 of the 59 hostages remaining in Gaza were still alive.

Israel insists that figure stands at 24, although an Israeli official said there was serious concern for the lives of three captives.



US president Donald Trump stunned many in Israel when he said only 21 of the 59 hostages remaining in Gaza were still alive (Evan Vucci/AP)

The official said there had been no sign of life from these three, whom the official did not identify.

He said that until there was evidence proving otherwise, the three were considered to be alive.

The official said the families of the captives were updated on these developments.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, a group representing the families of the captives, demanded from Israels government that if there was new information being kept from us, give it to us immediately.

It also called for Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu to halt the war in Gaza until all hostages were returned.

This is the most urgent and important national mission, it said on a post on X.



Palestinians struggle to get donated food at a community kitchen in Khan Younis in the Gaza Strip (Abdel Kareem Hana/AP)

Since Israel ended a ceasefire with the Hamas militant group in mid-March, it has unleashed strikes on Gaza that have killed hundreds and has captured swaths of territory.

Before the truce ended, Israel halted all humanitarian aid into the territory, including food, fuel and water, setting off what is believed to be the worst humanitarian crisis in 19 months of war.

Key interlocutors Qatar and Egypt said on Wednesday that mediation efforts were ongoing and consistent.

But Israel and Hamas remain far apart on how they see the war ending.

Israel says it will not end the war until Hamass governing and military capabilities are dismantled, something it has failed to do in 19 months of war.

Hamas says it is prepared to release all of the hostages for an end to the war and a long-term truce with Israel.



Recent Israeli airstrikes targeted a power plant and Sanaa Airport in Sanaa, Yemen (Osamah Abdulrahman/AP)

Against the backdrop of the plans to intensify the campaign in Gaza, fighting has also escalated between Israel and Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen.

The Houthis fired a ballistic missile earlier this week that landed on the grounds of Israels main international airport. Israel responded with a series of airstrikes over two days, whose targets included the airport in Yemens capital, Sanaa.

The Houthis have been striking Israel and targets in a main Red Sea shipping route since the war began in solidarity with the Palestinians.

On Tuesday, Mr Trump said the US would halt a nearly two-months-long campaign against the Houthis in Yemen, after the rebel group agreed not to target US ships.

The Israeli official said the deal came as a surprise to Israel and that it was concerned by it because of what it meant for the continuation of hostilities between it and the Houthis.
Israel attacks on Yemens capital have killed at least seven people, according to Houthi rebels.

They said two days of attacks, which the Israeli military said had disabled the airport in Sanaa, wounded 74 others.

Advertisement

Israel said the rare daytime attack on Sanaa, held by Yemens Iranian-backed Houthi rebels since 2014, left commercial aircraft burning on the tarmac as its fighter jets struck power plants and other targets.

The airstrikes came in response to a Houthi ballistic missile striking the grounds of Ben-Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv.



Smoke billows following Israeli airstrikes targeting a power plant and Sanaa Airpor (Osamah Abdulrahman/AP)

Israels military had warned on social media that people should leave the area immediately, saying that failure to evacuate the area endangers your lives.

The explosions from the strikes echoed across Sanaa, sending the public fleeing to find cover as thick black smoke rose over the skyline.

Advertisement

The Houthis al-Masirah satellite news channel aired footage from the airport, showing its terminals windows blown out with concrete blocks exposed and a fire burning inside. On its runway, aircraft associated with the state carrier Yemenia burned.

The airline later said three of its planes had been taken out of service in the attack, although those abroad in Jordan were untouched. The Israeli strike came after a flight to Amman on Tuesday took off.

Other strikes hit a cement plant and power plants, the Houthis and Israelis both said.

On Monday, Israel targeted Houthi rebels in Yemens Red Sea province of Hodeida, hitting a key port and another cement factory.

Advertisement

Israels defence minister Israel Katz said the strike should be seen as a warning to the head of the Iranian octopus, which he said bears direct responsibility for attacks by the Houthis against Israel.

The Israeli airstrikes involved some 50 bombs and dozens of aircraft, the Israeli military said.



Israeli security forces clean the road from debris where the Israeli military said a projectile fired by Yemens Houthi rebels landed in the area of Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv on Sunday (Ohad Zwigenberg/AP)

It also required mid-air refuelling to reach Sanaa, showing their reach also to Iran as Israel has threatened to strike Tehrans nuclear enrichment sites.

Sundays missile attack by the Houthis struck an access road near Israels main airport near Tel Aviv, briefly halting flights and commuter traffic. Four people were slightly injured.

Advertisement

It was the first time a missile struck the grounds of Ben-Gurion airport since the October 2023 start of the war in Gaza. While most missiles launched by the Houthis have been intercepted, some missiles and drones have penetrated Israels air defences.

The UN special envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg said the latest strikes carried out on Israel and Yemens airport marked a grave escalation in an already fragile and volatile regional context. He urged the parties to show restraint.

The future of American attacks on the Houthis, who have pledged to continue to target Israel, was thrown into question after US President Donald Trump said America would stop striking the Houthis.

He described the rebels as having capitulated and agreed to stop targeting shipping in the Red Sea, although the rebels did not specifically acknowledge such a pledge.

Advertisement

We indirectly informed the Americans that the continued escalation will affect the criminal Trumps visit to the region, and we have not informed them of anything else, said Mahdi al-Mashat, head of the Houthis supreme political council, in a statement carried by the rebel-controlled SABA news agency early on Wednesday.

Mr Trump is due to visit Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates next week.

Badr al-Busaidi, the foreign minister of Oman who mediated between the US and the Houthis, also is mediating between America and Iran over Tehrans rapidly advancing nuclear programme.

Todays news about the situation in the Red Sea means that diplomatic efforts have lead to the end to the conflict between the US and Ansar Allah in Yemen, Mr al-Busaidi wrote on X, using another name for the Houthis. They will no longer target each other, ensuring freedom of navigation for international commercial shipping in the Red Sea.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for his munitions industry to boost the production of artillery shells, state media said on Wednesday.

North Koreas official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said Mr Kim, during recent visits to unspecified munitions and machinery factories, praised modernisation efforts that the agency claimed enabled the facilities to double their annual shell production capacity.

Advertisement

Mr Kim urged workers to further accelerate artillery shell production, calling it crucial to strengthening the fighting efficiency of his armed forces, and also called for the development of more advanced machinery to boost munitions output.

The call comes as the country continues to supply arms and troops to support Russias war on Ukraine.



North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visits a munitions factory (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service/AP)

KCNA did not mention any comments from Mr Kim regarding his support for Russian President Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine.

Recent South Korean intelligence assessments suggest North Korea has sent about 15,000 soldiers to Russia, and that nearly 5,000 of them have been killed or injured while fighting against Ukrainian forces.

Advertisement

Washington and Seoul have also accused North Korea of supplying Russia with various types of military equipment, including artillery systems and shells and ballistic missiles.

After denying its war involvement for months, North Korea last month confirmed for the first time that it had sent combat troops to help Russia in recapturing parts of the Kursk region, which had fallen to a surprise Ukrainian incursion last year.

Moscow also acknowledged the North Korean involvement, with Mr Putin issuing a statement thanking the North for sending troops to support his forces and promising not to forget their sacrifices.

Analysts say North Koreas official acknowledgement of its military support for Russia is likely aimed at cementing a deeper, long-term partnership with Moscow and securing greater compensation, potentially including advanced military technology that could enhance the threat posed by Mr Kims nuclear-armed forces.

Advertisement

By formalising its role as a participant in the war, North Korea may also be positioning itself to seek compensation in future negotiations to end the conflict in Ukraine, according to a recent report by the Institute for National Security Strategy, a think tank affiliated with South Koreas intelligence agency.

In a closed-door briefing to lawmakers last month, South Koreas National Intelligence Service also said it believes North Korea has sent about 15,000 workers to Russia under bilateral industrial cooperation programmes.

While the value of North Korean artillery and missiles supplied to Russia likely amounts to billions of dollars, there are no immediate signs that Russia has provided direct cash payments in return, the agency said.

Instead, Russia has likely compensated North Korea with air defence missiles, electronic warfare equipment, drones and technology for spy satellite launches, according to the assessment.
Friedrich Merz plunged straight into international crises on his first full day as Germanys new chancellor on Wednesday, urging India and Pakistan to de-escalate their tensions, vowing support for Ukraine and announcing plans to travel to Kyiv soon.

Mr Merz and French president Emmanuel Macron  both firm believers in the European Union  used their first meeting since the German leaders appointment on Tuesday to present a united front in the face of US president Donald Trumps trade war, Russian aggression in Ukraine and other issues causing alarm in Europe.

Advertisement

In a joint news conference, Mr Merz acknowledged that Europe still needed the US for peace in Ukraine, but the duo vowed to strengthen the continents security and increase defence spending.



French president Emmanuel Macron, right, and German chancellor Friedrich Merz vowed to work hand in hand to strengthen European defence capabilities (Ludovic Marin, Pool via AP)

It is our firm conviction that we cannot end this war in Ukraine without further political and military engagement by the United States of America, Mr Merz said.

The Europeans cannot replace this at present.

With the EUs largest economies and populations, the tandem of Germany and France has long underpinned the 27-nation bloc, but lost some of its vigour in recent months as leaders in both countries wrestled with domestic issues.

Advertisement

Mr Macron called Russia a systemic threat to European security, and said that France and Germany would accelerate defence co-operation. He listed working together on tanks, long-range missiles and combat aircraft.

He also said that the countries would start regular meetings of a French-German defence council and together develop new defence technologies necessary for the wars of tomorrow.



Mr Macron, right, and Mr Merz are both firm believers in the European Union (Ludovic Marin, Pool via AP)

Mr Merz and Mr Macron  who called his German counterpart cher Friedrich, or dear Friedrich  are hoping to give the relationship fresh impetus at a crucial time, with Mr Trump and Russian president Vladimir Putin both exerting pressure on the EU, forcing it to rethink its own security.

The pair also teamed up to demand that Israel allow humanitarian aid for civilians in Gaza.

Advertisement

Israel is preparing to ramp up its campaign against Hamas in a devastating war now entering its 20th month. The war began on October 7 2023, when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages.

Israels offensive has killed more than 52,000 people in Gaza, many of them women and children, according to Palestinian health officials.

The officials do not distinguish between combatants and civilians in their count.

Mr Merz said it was an obligation and urged Israel to be more responsible. The chancellors comments were striking given Germanys past and present support for Israel.

Advertisement



Mr Merzs Paris stop showed that the new chancellor was plunging straight into world affairs (Michel Euler/AP)

Mr Macron said that France could not, on the one hand, defend Ukrainians sovereign and territorial rights while ignoring the plight of Palestinians in Gaza.

We cannot have double standards, the French leader said.

Both men sought stability between India and Pakistan, saying they viewed the clashes between these two nuclear powers with the utmost concern.

India fired missiles into Pakistani-controlled territory in several locations early on Wednesday, killing at least 26 people including a child, in what Pakistans leader called an act of war. India said it struck infrastructure used by militants linked to last months massacre of tourists in the Indian-controlled portion of Kashmir.

Advertisement

The German leaders trip to Paris came the day after his historic defeat in the first round of voting in the German parliament. No other post-war candidate for German chancellor has failed to win on the first ballot. He won in the second round.

Traditionally, newly elected German chancellors make a point of visiting their big neighbours in the west and east on the first day in office to stress European unity. Mr Merz will travel to Poland on Wednesday afternoon before returning to Berlin.

Mr Merzs Paris stop showed that the new chancellor was plunging forthrightly into world affairs, sending a message that Germany is back after his predecessors more timid approach. Mr Macron touted their meeting as a new page in the French-German partnership.





In particular, France is looking for German backing for increased EU defence spending in the face of the perceived threat to European security by Russia and concerns that Mr Trump is pivoting away from its post-Second World War transatlantic relationship with Europe to focus resources on countering China.

The French president also said France and Germany would act hand in hand in the face of Mr Trumps tariffs and work for a united European response and a balanced outcome that respects our interests.

The stops in Paris and Warsaw are happening on the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germanys unconditional surrender in the Second World War. Mr Macrons meeting with his third German chancellor as Frances president will be particularly loaded with symbolism for the two countries who were bitter enemies in the two world wars.

German-French friendship is a gift, a gift of forgiveness and reconciliation, especially for us Germans, Mr Merz said on Wednesday.

The First World War ended with an armistice agreement signed in a railway car north of Paris. Nazi leader Adolf Hitler then used the same railway car in accepting Frances capitulation in 1940, after its defences succumbed to the German invasion.
India fired missiles at Pakistan early on Wednesday, in what it said was retaliation for last months massacre of Indian tourists. Pakistan called the strikes an act of war and claimed it had downed several Indian fighter jets.

The strikes targeted at least nine sites where terrorist attacks against India have been planned, Indias defence ministry said.

Advertisement

Pakistans military said the missiles hit six locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and in the countrys Punjab province and killed more than two dozen people, including children.





Pakistan said it reserved the right to respond, raising the spectre that the back-and-forth could spiral into all-out conflict. Already, it is the worst confrontation between the rivals since 2019, when they came close to war.

Following the strikes, there was a heavy exchange of fire that officials in each country said left more people dead. Three planes fell onto villages in India-controlled territory, according to Indian police and residents, although it was not immediately clear if they were downed by Pakistan.

Tensions have soared between the nuclear-armed neighbours since an April attack in which gunmen killed 26 people, mostly Indian Hindu tourists, in India-controlled Kashmir, in some cases killing men before their wives eyes.

Advertisement

India accuses Pakistan of being behind the attack, which was claimed by a militant group calling itself Kashmir Resistance. India has said the group is linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, a disbanded Pakistani militant group.



Rescue workers and an ambulance arrive at the site of a suspected Indian missile attack, in Muridke, a town in Pakistans Punjab province (KM Chaudary/AP)

India and Pakistan have fought two of their three wars over the Himalayan region of Kashmir, which is split between them and claimed by both in its entirety.

In the wake of the massacre, the rivals have expelled each others diplomats and nationals, closed their borders and shut down airspace. India has also suspended a critical water-sharing treaty with Pakistan.

Pakistani prime minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the airstrikes and said his country would retaliate.

Advertisement

Pakistan has every right to give a robust response to this act of war imposed by India, and a strong response is indeed being given, Mr Sharif said.

He said his country would avenge the dead but gave no details, fanning fears of all-out conflict between the two countries.

It was not clear if Pakistans claim that it had shot down fighter jets constituted its retaliation or if more might be coming.



Pakistani paramilitary stand guard outside a gate of a complex close to the site of a suspected Indian missile attack, in Muridke (KM Chaudary/AP)

The countrys national security committee said Pakistan reserved the right to respond in self-defence, at a time, place, and manner of its choosing.

Advertisement

The statement said the strikes were carried out on the false pretext of the presence of imaginary terrorist camps and said they killed civilians.

South Asia analyst Michael Kugelman said the strikes were some of the highest-intensity ones from India on its rival in years and that Pakistans response would surely pack a punch as well.

These are two strong militaries that, even with nuclear weapons as a deterrent, are not afraid to deploy sizeable levels of conventional military force against each other, Mr Kugelman said.

The escalation risks are real. And they could well increase, and quickly.

Advertisement

In 2019, the two countries came close to a war after a Kashmiri insurgent rammed an explosive-laden car into a bus carrying Indian soldiers, killing 40. India carried out airstrikes in Pakistani territory, and Pakistan shot down an Indian warplane and captured the pilot, later releasing him.





US President Donald Trump called the escalating conflict so terrible and urged both sides to stop the violence.

UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres called for maximum restraint because the world could not afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan, according to a statement from spokesperson Stephane Dujarric.

China also called for calm. Beijing is the largest investor in Pakistan by far and has multiple border disputes with India, including one in the northeastern part of the Kashmir region.

Pakistans national security committee met on Wednesday morning. Indian prime minister Narendra Modi held a special meeting of the cabinet committee on security and postponed his upcoming trip to Norway, Croatia and the Netherlands.

Several Indian states held civil defence drills on Wednesday to train civilians and security personnel to respond in case of attack.

The missile strikes hit six locations and killed at least 26 people, including women and children, Pakistans military spokesperson, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif, said.

Officials said another 38 people were injured in the strikes, and five more people were killed in Pakistan during exchanges of fire across the border later in the day.



A damaged portion of a building is seen at a site of a suspected Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan controlled Kashmir (MD Mughal/AP)

Indian jets damaged infrastructure at a dam in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, according to Lt Gen Sharif, the military spokesman, calling it a violation of international norms.

The strikes also hit close to at least two sites previously tied to militant groups that have since been banned, according to Pakistan. One hit Subhan Mosque in Punjabs Bahawalpur city, killing 13 people, according to Zohaib Ahmed, a doctor at a nearby hospital.

The mosque is near a seminary that was once the central office of Jaish-e-Mohammed, a militant group outlawed in 2002. Officials say the group has had no operational presence at the site since the ban.

Another missile hit a mosque in Muridke in Punjab, damaging it. A sprawling building located nearby served as the headquarters of Lashkar-e-Taiba until 2013, when Pakistan banned the militant group and arrested its founder.

Indias defence ministry called the strikes focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature.

No Pakistan military facilities have been targeted, the statement said, adding that India has demonstrated considerable restraint.



People are escorted to a safe place during a mock security drill at a shopping centre in Ahmedabad, India, on Wednesday (Ajit Solanki/AP)

Along the Line of Control, which divides the disputed region of Kashmir between India and Pakistan, there were heavy exchanges of fire.

Indian police and medics said 12 civilians were killed and at least 40 wounded by Pakistani shelling in Poonch district near the highly militarised de facto border. At least 10 civilians were also injured in Kashmirs Uri sector, police said.

Shortly after Indias strikes, aircraft fell in three villages: two in India-controlled Kashmir, a third in Indias northern Punjab state.

Lt Gen Sharif said the countrys air force shot down five Indian jets in retaliation for the strikes. There was no immediate comment from India about Pakistans claim.

Debris from one plane was scattered across one village, including in a school and a mosque compound, according to police and residents. Firefighters struggled for hours to douse the resulting blazes.

Another aircraft fell in an open field in Bhardha Kalan village.

A third aircraft crashed in a farm field in Punjab, a police officer told The Associated Press.
Senior US officials are set to meet a high-level Chinese delegation this weekend, the administration said, in the first major talks between the two nations since Donald Trump sparked a trade war between them.

Treasury secretary Scott Bessent and trade representative Jamieson Greer will meet their counterparts in Geneva in the most-senior known conversations between the two countries in months.

Advertisement

The meeting in Switzerland comes amid growing US market concerns over the impact of US tariffs on the prices and supply of consumer goods.

The president had claimed previously that the US and China were holding negotiations on lowering tariffs, which Beijing has denied, saying Mr Trump must first lower his stiff tariffs.



Shipping containers are seen ready for transport at the Guangzhou Port in the Nansha district in southern Chinas Guangdong province (AP)

The Chinese Commerce Ministry on Tuesday confirmed the meeting between vice premier He Lifeng and Mr Bessent in Switzerland.

The Chinese side carefully evaluated the information from the US side and decided to agree to have contact with the US side after fully considering global expectations, Chinese interests and calls from US businesses and consumers, said a ministry spokesperson.

Advertisement

Mr Bessent and Mr Greer also plan to meet with Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter, according to readouts from their respective offices.

Mr Bessent earlier on Tuesday testified to a House committee that the US and China have not engaged in negotiations but as early as this week, the US will be announcing trade deals with some of the countrys largest trading partners.

Mr Greer told Fox News Channel last month that he spoke with his Chinese counterpart for more than an hour before the trade war started.

I thought it was constructive, he said. This is not a plan just to encircle China. Its a plan to fix the American economy, to have a greater share of manufacturing as GDP, to have real wages go up, to be producing things instead of having an economy thats financed by the government.

Advertisement

Mr Bessent in February spoke with Mr He to exchange views on the bilateral economic relationship, according to a Treasury news release.
US President Donald Trump said no when asked if he would reduce his 145% tariffs on Chinese goods as a condition for negotiations.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer are set to meet their Chinese counterparts this weekend in Switzerland.

Advertisement

China has made the de-escalation of the tariffs a requirement for trade negotiations, which the meetings are supposed to help establish.

Mr Trumps comments suggest the worlds two largest economies could be at an impasse.

China has also said that the US requested the meeting in Switzerland, something that Mr Trump disputed.

Well, I think they ought to go back and study their files, the president said.

Advertisement

Mr Trump was speaking after David Perdue was sworn in as US ambassador to China on Wednesday.
Five members of Venezuelas political opposition have left the Argentine diplomatic compound in the capital Caracas, where they had sheltered for more than a year to avoid arrest.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said they were in the US after what he described as a rescue operation.

Advertisement

The government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro did not immediately comment on the situation.

The US welcomes the successful rescue of all hostages held by the Maduro regime at the Argentinian Embassy in Caracas, Mr Rubio said on X. Following a precise operation, all hostages are now safely on U.S. soil.





The U.S. welcomes the successful rescue of all hostages held by the Maduro regime at the Argentinian Embassy in Caracas.



Following a precise operation, all hostages are now safely on U.S. soil. Maduro's illegitimate regime has undermined Venezuela's institutions, violated human  Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) May 7, 2025

The government of Argentine President Javier Milei allowed the five people into the ambassadors residence in March 2024, when authorities loyal to Venezuelas ruling party issued warrants for their arrest, accusing them of promoting acts of violence to destabilise the country.

The group included the campaign manager and communications director of opposition leader Maria Corina Machado.

Advertisement

Ms Machado, also on X, thanked people involved in what she called an impeccable and epic operation for the Freedom of five heroes of Venezuela.

Since late November, the group had denounced the constant presence of intelligence service agents and police outside the residence. It had also accused the government of cutting electricity and water services to the compound.

The government had denied the allegations.

Fernando Martinez, a cabinet minister in the 1990s, sheltered with the group for nine months. He abandoned the compound in mid-December and, according to Venezuelan authorities, appeared before prosecutors. He died in February.

Advertisement

Mr Maduros government routinely targeted its real or perceived opponents ahead of last years presidential election and its crackdown on dissent only increased after the countrys National Electoral Council, which is stacked with Maduro loyalists, declared him the winner despite credible evidence to the contrary.

The election results announced by the Electoral Council sparked protests across the country to which the government responded with force and ended with more than 20 people dead.

They also prompted an end to diplomatic relations between Venezuela and various foreign countries, including Argentina.

In August, Brazil accepted Argentinas request to guard the diplomatic compound in Caracas after Mr Maduros government expelled its diplomats when Mr Milei said that he would not recognise another fraud.

Advertisement

A month later, Venezuela revoked Brazils authorisation to guard the facility, alleging it had evidence of the use of the premises for the planning of terrorist activities and assassination attempts.

Brazil and Argentina have rejected those accusations.
The company has jumped a critical bureaucratic hurdle by securing full government approval to sell its gold domestically and internationally.

The timing of the government stamp of approval had been an unknown quantity, but having it now allows Aguia to get on with its first gold sales against a backdrop of soaring gold prices, currently nipping at the heels of all-time highs at US$3400 (A$5223) per ounce.

Aguia Resources executive chairman Warwick Grigor said: Aguia has been very efficient in its use of capital and achieved a level of success on a very tight budget at the Santa Barbara gold project. Having our CEO William Howe in country during this process has been instrumental to the success so far. We are now at the inflection point beyond which we expect to be earning significant cash.

The company expects to fire up a 25-hole maiden diamond drilling program at Santa Barbara next week. The first drill campaign on the project is designed to test beneath existing workings as well as along strike. The company expects the drill bit to intersect known high-grade veins and potentially discover new ones.

Management is excited at the prospect of discovering any treasures lurking beneath the mines rugged surface. If drilling confirms the continuity and grade of the underground veins, Aguia could find itself sitting on a much larger prize than it initially thought.

The assay data will form the basis of an all-important maiden JORC resource, targeted for later this year.

Most of Aguias time in the past few months has been focused on bringing Santa Barbara back online and generating some juicy cash flow. The company has also moved forward on its plan to become an organic phosphate producer from its Pampafos deposit, which is part of its Tres Estrades project in southern Brazil.

In a shrewd play to sidestep the hefty $26M price tag outlined in last years feasibility study, the company secured a 10-year lease on the fully functional Dagoberto Barcelos processing plant, which is 100km from Tres Estradas.

The move comes with a reasonable monthly fee and a one-off BRL$5M (A$1.36M) payment, giving Aguia a fast-track route to production without the financial sting of building a plant from scratch.

The original study tipped the project to churn out $22M in annual EBITDA with a quick 2.9-year payback at its full 300,000tpa capacity.

Aguia plans to turbocharge the existing 100,000tpa facility by installing a hammer mill and second dryer - minor upgrades that could triple throughput and bring those projections within striking distance.

Feedstock will initially come from Pampafos, but Aguia is already drilling its nearby Mato Grande and Passo Feio prospects, just 3km and 8km from the plant respectively, aiming to slash transport costs and boost margins. A second processing facility is also on the cards, potentially setting up a multi-plant phosphate play to meet the booming demand for organic fertilisers in-country.

With Santa Barbara starting to hit its straps and Tres Estradas just warming up to become a second significant cash flow stream in the next few months, Aquia appears to have finally moved on from its cash-constricting construction phase. The company seems to be firmly on an upward cashflow generating trajectory.

Is your ASX-listed company doing something interesting? Contact: mattbirney@bullsnbears.com.au
When the computer screens shut off without warning, the room erupted in panic. First came curses, then tears.

On April 28 at about 1.27 pm, the air traffic controllers monitoring the skies above New Jerseys Newark Liberty International Airport, which services New York, came face to face with their worst-case scenario: with radar and radio contact suddenly cut, they couldnt communicate with the dozens of aircraft coming in or out of one of the most congested airspaces in the US.

The blackout sparked chaos inside air traffic control towers at Newark Airport last week. Credit: Bloomberg

Controllers braced for tragedy and destruction that some worried theyd be helpless to prevent, according to accounts of people familiar with the events. One person described workers in the room letting out curses and frustrated cries.

Then, about 90 seconds later, the power blinked back on as abruptly as it had vanished. No one was injured and no planes had crashed. But several controllers were left visibly shaken, with some crying, said one of the people, who were not authorised to speak publicly on the matter. One was suffering heart palpitations. Several had to leave their posts because the stress was too much to bear, further thinning out the ranks of an already strained command post.
Motown star Smokey Robinson is being sued over allegations of sexual assault and battery, as well as workplace negligence, by four women who worked for him as housekeepers at his California home.

The lawsuit, which was filed in the Los Angeles County Superior Court on Tuesday, also included allegations of false imprisonment, gender violence and creating a hostile work environment. It also named his wife, Frances Robinson, as a defendant. The women, who identified themselves as Jane Does to protect their privacy, seek a trial and $50 million in damages.

Smokey Robinson in Melbourne in 2009. Credit: Michael Clayton-Jones

The lawsuit alleges sexual assault incidents and hostile work environment situations that took place from 2007 until April 2024 when the women were employed at Robinsons home in the Chatsworth neighbourhood of Los Angeles. One woman alleged she was also raped at other Robinson homes, in the Bell Canyon neighbourhood of Los Angeles and in Las Vegas. Among several accusations, the women accused Robinson, 85, of ordering them to his bedroom or other areas of his property, where he would allegedly sexually assault or rape them.

Defendants conduct was outrageous, despicable, and intolerable in a civilised society, the complaint said.
Advertisement

Eating outBest of Melbournes charcoal chicken shops have levelled up: Here are four to try After years of tried-and-true menus, were now spoiled for choice of rotisserie chicken. Try Lebanese wraps with serious spice, wood-roasted birds like those found in Korea and a burger that rivals a fast-food fave. Quincy Malesovas May 7, 2025 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

As featured in the June 2025 hitlist. See all stories .

Chicken shops have long been part of the Australian food landscape, from the rotisserie chooks of the 1960s to charcoal chicken introduced by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern migrants around 1980. Today, they endure as a suburban staple, whether independent or part of a chain such as El Jannah (founded in Sydney in 1998 and now boasting 13 Victorian outlets) or Chargrill Charlies (started by a South African family in 1989). Now a new generation of Melbourne entrepreneurs is putting a fresh spin on the trusty chook. From Korean-style rotisserie to American-inspired chicken sandwiches, here are four fresh ways to get your fix. 24-hour marinated charcoal chicken comes with Lebanese pita bread at Habibi Chickens Preston outlet. For an American fast-food riff: Chook

Advertisement

Fourteen years ago, Fonda shook up Melbournes fast-casual Mexican dining. Now, its co-founder Tim McDonald is ready to modernise the charcoal chicken offering and give people what they want in 2025 with his new venture, Chook. That translates to a choice of fried or roasted chicken served in wraps, bowls and sandwiches (the American term for chicken burgers). Chooks proper sandwich is packed with crispy chicken, Acide dill pickles and buttermilk ranch. The fried chicken  pressure-fried so it stays juicy and absorbs less oil  borrows a technique from popular US fast-food chain Chick-fil-A. Roast chook nods to classic Aussie styles. Available whole, halved or quartered, its salt-brined and finished in a combi oven, which allows the bird to steam while it cooks, avoiding dryness. Hot tip: For a close Chick-fil-A dupe, order the Proper Chicken Sandwich with fried chicken, buttermilk ranch and pickles, plus a side of waffle fries. 208 Swan Street, Cremorne, instagram.com/chook.community

Advertisement

Related Article I literally sat there and sobbed into my falafel: New Middle Eastern eateries to weep (with joy) over For Lebanese chicken with love: Habibi After winning hearts in Wagga Wagga, Habibi brought its Lebanese charcoal chicken to Melbourne earlier this year. Birds are marinated for 24 hours in a heady mix of garlic, cumin, coriander and paprika before hitting the rotisserie. Grab a combo with flatbread, pickles and garlic-herb Habibi sauce, or spice things up with the Blame the Flame wrap  chicken, chips, slaw, Lebanese-style pickles and a garlicky chilli sauce  thats brushed with extra chilli and toasted to order. Hot tip: Take home some Wagga-made sauces and seasonings. Theyre part of Habibis mission to support regional communities with jobs, something echoed in the name  my love in Arabic. 9 High Street, Preston, habibichicken.com.au/preston

Advertisement

Smoky Hens birds spin slowly over oak wood. Eddie Jim For a different kind of Korean chicken: Smoky Hen Korean fried chicken may have gone global, but chargrilled versions  known as tongdak-gui  are just as beloved back home. Seeing the popularity of Aussie chicken shops, Smoky Hen co-owner Scott Lee returned to Korea to research tongdak-gui before bringing it to Melbourne. His chicken is brined for 24 hours, then slow-roasted over oak wood on a rotisserie imported from Korea. While the method is traditional, the sauces  garlic cheese, habanero-apricot and galbi (soy and sweet garlic)  speak to the tastes of younger generations. Hot tip: Swap out chips for tteokbokki  chewy Korean rice cakes simmered in sweet-spicy sauce with dumplings and fish cake. 311 Stephensons Road, Mount Waverley, smokyhen.com.au

Advertisement

Tawooqs flatbread chicken wrap includes meat marinated overnight in garlic, lemon and toum (garlic sauce). For street-food wraps: Tawooq Named after Lebanons beloved chicken skewers, Tawooq offers its own take on the chargrilled chicken wrap. Meat is cubed and marinated overnight in garlic, lemon, toum (garlic sauce) and spices, then grilled on a flat-top and rolled into flatbread with chips, pickled turnips, slaw and more house-made toum. It may look like a kebab, but owner Boudy Yaacoub is quick to clarify: Its not as messy. Its not as greasy. Our tagline is not a kebab. Hot tip: Cant get enough chicken? Try the Asbe  toum, tomato, pickles and chicken liver on a baguette. 109 Lygon Street, Brunswick East, tawooq.com.au
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 This story is part of the May 10 edition of Good Weekend. See all 14 stories . Lets see you lift that up there, love. The head zookeeper nodded to the loading dock above us. This was my third interview at the zoo. It was 1983, and newspapers still advertised vacancies under separate mens and womens columns. Men did mens jobs and women, the weaker sex, did other stuff like typing or looking after children. Id been so many things already  debt collector, dog washer, petrol-pump attendant, server, aged-care worker, farm hand, conveyancing clerk, kennel maid, translator and interpreter  and now I really wanted to be a zookeeper. I was wearing a dress and I was nervous. I was 31 years old, going for a junior position in a dress that wasnt even mine. Not being a girly girl, I didnt own any. Id borrowed this frock from my boyfriend Robs Aunty Jean; the outfit resembled a mans safari suit with pockets and a belt, which I thought might be appropriate attire for an interview at the zoo. Arriving at Taronga Zoo on beautiful Sydney Harbour, I walked through the imposing entrance with its iconic facade as if it were hallowed grounds. I was met by two middle-aged men in uniform who walked me down to the zoos off-display area where all the behind-the-scenes work happened. The place was bustling with more men in khaki uniforms. This was where the commissary was, the place where the animal food was delivered, sorted and distributed to the various departments. We stood below a loading dock where there were several hessian bags of kangaroo feed pellets, apparently waiting for me. We just want to see if youre up to doing the work, said Bill, the head keeper. I saw him and the assistant head keeper exchange some amused glances. The general curator was the one who would make the final hiring decision, but I was told hed be late: hed left the gas on and rushed back home to prevent his house burning down. Meanwhile, these two blokes took advantage of his absence, trying their hardest to intimidate me. On the walk down to the works area they peppered me with questions like: Do you think this is a glamorous job? and Do you realise youll get dirty doing this kind of work? (I clearly looked too neat and clean in Aunty Jeans frock.) Youd be doing a mans job: how do you feel about that? My examiners appeared almost disappointed when I lifted three 50-kilogram bags onto the dock (undoubtedly in an unglamorous way) and decided to take me back where the actual interview was going to be. The general curator had arrived, presumably having averted a fire at his place. Once he was in the room the interview continued along more traditional lines, with questions regarding my animal husbandry experience, expertise and qualifications. I had certificates in zookeeping and veterinary nursing. What seemed to be a stumbling block was that I was also a qualified translator and interpreter of Dutch, German, French, Spanish and English, with a steady, well-paid job at the Commonwealth Bank. If offered, the zoo job would pay less than half of my current salary, possibly further adding to the suspicion I was after glamour and fame. With English naturalist David Attenborough in 2003. Credit: Courtesy of Erna Walraven

Advertisement

Someone else got that job, but a few weeks later I got a phone call: I was offered a six-month contract in the veterinary hospital and quarantine centre. The general curator, a tall, bearded American, got me in through the back door. When the six months were up, I was hired as a permanent staff member. I was one of the first female zookeepers in Australia and a foreigner (from the Netherlands) to boot. For a few years there were rumours that any women employed as zookeepers must have slept with someone higher up to get the job. Perhaps the men found that easier to accept than a woman getting a zookeeper job on skill and merit. Despite the gossip and obvious opposition, I just loved the work. If landing my dream job meant working in a male-dominated environment, then so be it. The opportunity to get close to and get to know fabulous, exotic creatures was worth tolerating some grumpy blokes. I looked the part now in khaki King Gees, though sadly the issued uniform was tailored for men and not comfortable. But I got to feed carrots to giraffe Charity, who had the longest eyelashes, or get chased by black rhinoceros Dynah as I shifted her to the outside yards. Every day was different and exciting, even if the lunchroom was heavy with testosterone and many, though not all, of my male colleagues felt my employment negatively impacted their image as macho men: If a girl could do the job, what kind of man was I? I had arrived in Australia in 1980 after falling in love with Rob, an Australian backpacker, in Spain. We travelled back and forth between Europe and Australia for a couple of years and eventually settled in Sydney. I worked as a translator in Spain, and to do the same work in my new country I had to get accredited. Bottle-feeding kangaroo orphans in 1983. Credit: Courtesy of Erna Walraven Permanently moving to a new country so far away made me question what I wanted from life and career. Since childhood Id been fascinated by animals, and Id fallen in love with Australian native wildlife. Rob worked for the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and we would go camping and bushwalking in remote wild places. I became interested in birdwatching and at night wed go spotlighting around the campsite to see what nocturnal creatures we could find. The sheer uniqueness and variety of native mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians in my new country enthralled me. The potential of also getting to know tigers, chimpanzees, lions, meerkats and hundreds more species convinced me that zookeeping was for me.

Advertisement

While working full-time as a translator, I completed certificate courses in zookeeping, devoured nature documentaries and books about animal behaviour and everything I could lay my hands on to learn more. All of which led to that six-month trial position and then on to everything else that would happen to me at Taronga. Everything I read about gender roles in nature confirmed my inferiority to men. I did not feel inferior, though  was there something wrong with me? As I started my new job, I experienced a level of chauvinism Id not encountered before. I suppose those documentaries and books about animals confirmed it was natural for males to be in charge: females were portrayed merely as spectators in the energetic lives of males. From Aristotle to Darwin and beyond, male biologists were influenced by their contemporary cultures, cultures that were at best dismissive of females and at worst deeply misogynistic. I blame those early zoologists for explaining the natural world through their cultural expectations of masculinity and femininity. Females were expected to be quiet, pleasant, modest and devoted mothers. All things I am not. These views about females have dominated human cultures ever since  even though, more than two millennia ago, the noted zoologist and philosopher Aristotle was aware some domestic hens were having it off with more than one rooster and likely did so wilfully, taking control of their sex life. Despite these early observations, he is widely interpreted to have continued describing female animals as passive onlookers in the dynamic, purposeful lives of males. Females who did not neatly fit into the chaste and coy model were ignored or, even worse, considered an aberration. In his text On the Generation of Animals, dating back to the 4th century BC, the Greek philosopher also characterised the female as a mutilated male and spent quite a bit of time explaining why women were inferior to men. Aristotle is still read widely, quoted and taught at universities. Looking after a young Malayan tapir in 1998. Credit: Courtesy of Erna Walraven Many centuries later, in Victorian England, these views were still firmly in place when the interest in the natural world was fuelled by access to the ecosystems of the growing empire. Educated men like Charles Darwin and others set off to foreign shores to discover, steal and describe the animals they found and, in Darwins case, develop the theory of evolution. As a newbie zookeeper, I studied evolutionary theory and Darwins On the Origin of Species, published in 1859, as devotedly as others might delve into religion. Darwin was my hero.

Advertisement
The construction company rebuilding North Sydneys Olympic pool is taking the local council to court, seeking $28 million in compensation for cost overruns and delays to the $122 million project.

Icon  the developer who built the infamous Opal Tower at Sydney Olympic Park  filed the lawsuit in the NSW Supreme Court, claiming the council breached its contract by repeatedly revising designs for a pool roof structure, which eventually had to be pulled down due to significant flaws.

The North Sydney Olympic Pool redevelopment has triggered a wave of litigation years after some councillors raised concerns about the project. Credit: Dean Sewell

In a statement of claim, Icon said it sought damages and an extension of time to complete the project under its contract due to problems caused by myriad changes to the steel roof structures design by Brewster Hjorth Architects and structural engineering consultants Mott MacDonald.

Icon says the time taken to revise the upper roof design, and the revisions to the upper roof design and associated works, caused Icon to incur additional costs and delay on the project, the claim said.
Given that some seats will be determined by a mere handful of votes, it is surely a tragedy that in many seats the informal votes topped 5000, and in one seat almost 10,000. The wastage of votes suggested an optional preferential system would result in a better reflection of political choices of the entire voting population with voters choosing to vote only for the candidate, or candidates, of their choice, but not necessarily all candidates. Surely these figures cannot be defended on the basis that what happened on Saturday is how democracy works. Bryne Smith, Gold Coast Unless a Senate candidate has secured a quota they must endure a far longer wait than House candidates for a result. The Constitution and its interpretation by the High Court make simplification of Senate voting difficult. The Senate ballot paper-format and accompanying voting rules have been changed by parliament and contested in the courts many times. The parliamentary committee on electoral matters must again review the Senate ballot paper and voting rules as there is still a major inconsistency.

The AEC website advises we must choose ... to vote above the line or below the line, you cannot do both. Immediately below is the confusing advice about above the line  If you vote above the line you can vote for a party or group or a person not in a party or group. The latter are only listed below the line. The inconsistency influenced my vote. The ballot paper and instructions need a redesign. Peter Egan, Mosman Christopher Pyne has a useful bag of ideas designed to fix his party (Voters gave my party a lesson. We Liberals can no longer cover our ears, May 6). Did Dutton seriously think a religious sect who refuses to allow its members to vote and who turned up in Liberal shirts and harassed voters was a vote-winner? Similarly, the always-lazy party just picked up policies from the Minerals Council, BCA, coal lobbies, right-wing think tanks and Gina Rinehart; nothing to do with that broad church. And allowing themselves to be a voting system for Murdoch and Sky was just so dumb. As for the Nationals; whatever ideas they come up with, just say no. Tony Sullivan, Adamstown Heights Christopher Pyne youre a dreamer. In fact the Liberal Party is no longer fit for purpose. I dont recall its last decent policy. Your politicians are just that, politicians. They are not representative of our society. You want the party to be agnostic on social issues and conservative on economic issues, generalisations that dont mean much. They suggest though that your party doesnt really care about the impact of your decisions on individuals. Robo-debt was a good example. Your recent parliamentary leaders have been abysmal. Your party doesnt have a heart. Youre a boys club. Grow up. Do you want to make Australia a better place, or just make your own lives better? Geoff Nilon, Mascot Gina Rinehart is exhorting the Coalition to double down on Trumpist policies as they regroup. I was someone who handed out ALP how to vote cards last Saturday, and for the first time in my life, I loudly proclaim that I am with Gina (on this one). Joe Weller, Mittagong

Poor old Libs, what choices they have for a new leader? Angus Taylor, who as shadow treasurer will always be remembered for the cock up calculation he made of his attack on Clover Moore. And poor old Dan Tehan, who will not be remembered for anything at all. Coral Button, North Epping Tutoring an easy way to pay teachers less Dr Ben Zunica is spot on with the coaching industry (Hiring a tutor for your children is like sending them to the wild west, May 7). It does need reform and regulation starting with ensuring qualified teachers are employed and paid appropriately. Content and methods should also be reviewed. It is time to limit the reach of colleges and extend better provision for high-achieving students in all local schools. A better answer would be to do away with selective high schools and opportunity classes, provide smaller school classes and give students the opportunity to be taught and learn effectively. Augusta Monro, Dural Riot police were called to the selective schools test at Canterbury on Friday.

I agree with the above article regarding college tutoring. Having worked for three colleges; few employ qualified, experienced retired teachers who are paid more. Many employ university students who are not yet qualified or worse, achieving HSC students who may have excellent grades but are not qualified teachers and who may have never read a syllabus or program. Of course these tutors are paid less. Patricia Miller, Bexley Concerns to regulate the tutoring industry are well-founded with many children at risk of growing anxiety and mental illness in attempting to reach impossible heights. However, many more are suffering with holes in their learning through illness, family break-ups and movements and even caring roles by children. For these children, additional tutoring proves very valuable. Many of these children are failed by the education system, but they could be helped by regulating tutoring for need rather tutoring systems merely promoting access to selective schools. Janice Creenaune, Austinmer I retired 13 years ago, but even then it was common to encourage students to do easier subjects in order to get Band 6 results for the school (The unfair HSC system distorting the subjects students choose, May 7). A fairer method is to look at the ATARs achieved by the school and not the number of Band 6 results. A high Band 4 in Physics or Advanced Maths contributes just as much as a low Band 6 in an easy subject. I taught what is considered a hard subject but have family members who teach some of the easy subjects. I encourage my own grandchildren to choose subjects they love and are interested in. They will get a good ATAR if they pursue their interests, regardless of whether the subject is easy or not. However, they may not get the recognition for their hard work if they do not get a Band 6 because they have chosen hard subjects. Colleen Northam, Taree Hope is needed for it warns Matilda Emmerichs painting, Where Hope Sits, is a challenging and thought-provoking artwork (Teen artist striving for hope during global wars banned from show, May 7). Rather than be rejected by her local agricultural show, it should be hung in the National Gallery of Australia as a confronting and insightful work on the nature of the world today. Leo Sorbello, West Ryde

Detail of Where Hope Sits, a painting by 16-year-old Matilda Emmerich. The work weighed 4.5 kilograms and measured 57cm x 76cm. Credit: Matilda Emmerich Before being killed in the last week of WWI, Wilfred Owen wrote All a poet can do today is warn. That is why the true poets must be truthful. Apparently Emmerichs painting showed the image of their flags being desecrated. May I assure the upholders of the purity of the flags that the symbols have not been desecrated by the painter but by the actions of those who committed war crimes under the cover of their flag. I grieve for a country where hope is banned; after 110 years of fighting for a land fit for heroes we have a land of old men, who would kill the seed one by one by repeating the mistakes of the sleepwalkers. We need hope  which is why I am writing this letter. Laurie Aldridge, Woonona Taxpayers to foot the tab I read with interest the proposal by the Australian Turf Club for the NSW Government to pay out billions of dollars up until 2041 for the land situated at Rosehill Gardens racecourse (The Sydney housing plan well be paying billions for until 2041, May 7). Part of the proposal to ATC members is that they will each receive five years of free membership and a $1000 food and beverage voucher to be spent on track each of those years. If the government agrees to buy the land, it will have directly financed race club members attending the races for free and drinking copious amounts of alcohol while they do it. This hardly seems like a good use of taxpayer money. Kieran Fitzgerald, Potts Point

Rosehill racecourse would be replaced by housing if sold to the state government. Credit: Getty Imperfect but extraordinary Your correspondent is right to call for more nuance on Israel and Gaza but that nuance should apply across all conflicts, including atrocities that her letter did not mention, such as those in Sudan, Syria and India (Letters, May 7). Australias recent election result  a landslide win for a centre-left party  suggests voters are more focused on cost of living, social cohesion, and housing, not imported polarisation and culture wars. After a year in which both the far-right and far-left tried but failed to divide Jewish and Muslim Australians, the electorate has rightly rejected this divisive rhetoric in favour of what unites us: our imperfect but extraordinary multicultural country.

The ALP now has a mandate to focus on economic equality, climate action, closing the gap and democratic stability in a world frayed by rising extremism. Condemning oppression  whether by Hamas or the Israeli far-right  remains vital. The language and policies of Israels extremist ministers are not only morally repugnant; they endanger Jews and Palestinians alike. But Australians, many of whom fled conflict themselves, want calm, not chaos. What they crave is not a side to cheer for, but a future they can believe in. Simon Tedeschi, Newtown Dust to dust I do hope that Elon Musks education included study of Shelleys famous poem, Ozymandias. (Welcome to Starbase: The worlds richest man is making his own city, May 7). I am fondly picturing a future for the arrogant colossus, destined to lie in the dust of history. Lorraine Hickey, Green Point How big is an elephant?
Australias top-ranked university sacked one staff member last year for racism and reprimanded 17 students who occupied a building as part of a pro-Palestine protest.

Students at the University of Melbourne in the May 2024 protest against the war in Gaza. Credit: Eamon Gallagher

The University of Melbournes inaugural annual report into racism at the institution, published on Wednesday, details complaints and reports made in 2024 as well as acknowledging its own racist past.

There were 33 complaints made against staff at the university, nine against students and 20 others including about teaching and learning, and cultural responsiveness, according to the 17-page report.

But the majority of complaints made to the university were unable to be investigated, according to the report. Of the 33 complaints against staff, only two were investigated.
Sussan Ley has trekked the wilderness before. Before gap years were a rite of passage, an 18-year-old Ley hitched up a horse and a pack horse and decided to ride from Yass to the Ninety Mile Beach. She rode through Kosciuszko with no phone, just a topographical map on her saddle to guide her through to the other side.

Ley will need to rely on the same grit and instinct now she is the opposition leader. There is no map to guide a shattered Liberal Party through its worst defeat in history. But in taking the reins, it will be keeping with the adventurous bent she inherited growing up in Nigeria, the Middle East and Britain as the daughter of a British intelligence officer, before arriving in Australia.

Liberal Party Leader Sussan Ley enters the party meeting on Tuesday morning. Credit: James Brickwood

Travelling, and being at boarding school on my own, I think you either sink or swim, Ley has said in previous interviews. Obviously, I was someone who decided very early on in life that I wasnt going to sink.

Ley has prepared for the challenges of becoming Australias first federal female Coalition leader. She cut her teeth as one of two women in Tony Abbotts famously male-heavy cabinet. Before that, she tried and failed to become one of Australias first female commercial pilots. Ley arrived at her first university class aged 30 with a baby in tow, and studied part-time for 10 years while raising three children.
The party of protest has just discovered it protested far too much.

Greens leader Adam Bandt has suffered a devastating verdict from voters after victories at five elections since he made history for his party by seizing the seat of Melbourne from Labor in 2010.

Greens leader Adam Bandt. Credit: Getty

While Bandt has not conceded defeat, he is losing steadily as more votes are counted. It would be a miracle if he were saved by the late discovery of hordes of votes in his favour. The most likely outcome will be a concession speech.

Bandt has been a strong advocate for the environment, social justice and action on Gaza. Nobody can doubt his passion for the Greens cause and his energy in parliament. But there are consequences for every party when they misjudge the Australian electorate.
Despite many bosses ordering workers back to the office, Queenslands public servants are logging on from home in increasing numbers.

The latest workforce survey shows 54 per cent of the states public servants worked from home in 2024, up from 51 per cent a year earlier, and 49 per cent in 2022.

In comparison, about 36 per cent of all working Australians regularly did so from home in 2024, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

Premier David Crisafulli confirmed there were no plans to change work from home arrangements in Queensland. Credit: Matt Dennien

Across the Queensland public sector, almost one-in-three remote workers said they did so one day a week on average, 49 per cent did two days at home, and just 3 per cent did five days.
Check-in

Theres a queue at check-in, but it only takes 10 or so minutes before were at the desk. After checking in were directed to a section of the airport with a large screen and are instructed to wait five minutes in case our bag is shown on the screen. My checked bag makes an appearance, and then a minute later the screen shows a hand reaching down to remove it. Bags move in and out of the square like a game of hokey pokey. Im thoroughly confused. What does this mean? The signage doesnt make it clear, so I ask a security officer. He directs me to the airport baggage inquiry section, where I have to watch another screen.

After a few minutes waiting  my bag doesnt appear  Im allowed to progress to security. Its only when Im seated on the aircraft and I see my bag being loaded through the window that Im reassured it will be coming home with me. Happily, the Koh Samui effect means Im bemused but mostly unbothered by the experience.

Security

A few steps from check-in, there is a single luggage screening machine but no queue. Sadly, my small bag doesnt make the grade as Ive forgotten to remove my sunscreen. Despite it only holding a quarter of a bottle of lotion, the security staff member is firm. The cream is dumped in the bin, and I head to departures.
India has long accused Pakistan of helping Islamist separatists who have battled security forces in its part of the territory. Islamabad denies those accusations. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Credit: AP How has Pakistan responded? Pakistan denied any involvement in the April 22 attack, and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for a transparent, credible and neutral investigation. He also urged the United States to impress upon India to dial down the rhetoric and act responsibly. The head of the Pakistan-administered region of Kashmir called for international mediation and said his administration was preparing a humanitarian response in case of further escalation.

What is the latest? India, in what it called Operation Sindoor, fired missiles into Pakistani-controlled territory in several locations early on Wednesday, May 7 (Pakistani time), targeting nine sites it said were used by militants planning attacks on India. Pakistan said eight people were killed, including a child. It claims to have shot down five Indian planes in retaliation. At least three civilians were also killed in shelling by Pakistani troops in Indian-controlled Kashmir, the Indian army said. There have been heavy exchanges of fire between both armies along the Line of Control, which divides the disputed region of Kashmir between India and Pakistan.

South Asia analyst Michael Kugelman said the missile strikes were some of the highest intensity from India in years and that Pakistans response would surely pack a punch as well. These are two strong militaries that, even with nuclear weapons as a deterrent, are not afraid to deploy sizeable levels of conventional military force against each other, Kugelman said. The escalation risks are real. And they could well increase, and quickly. Why do India and Pakistan distrust each other? At independence, the countries were split along religious lines, with Pakistan becoming predominantly Muslim and India choosing secular democracy for its mostly Hindu population. The drawing of new borders by the British uprooted almost 14 million people and resulted in sectarian violence that killed as many as 1 million. India and Pakistan have fought wars since then, two of them over Kashmir, with scores of skirmishes in between. Pakistans leaders have seen India as an existential threat since the partition; some think India still harbours hopes of reversing the split.

Residents and media in a building damaged by a suspected Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad, Pakistan, on Wednesday. Credit: AP Loading Indian intelligence services have linked a succession of terrorist attacks carried out between 2001 and 2019 to Pakistan. Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan vowed to curb militant groups, but failed. The countrys civilian leaders have little power to shape foreign and security policy, which is largely controlled by the army and Inter-Services Intelligence spy agency. Whats so special about Kashmir? At the time of partition, India and Pakistan courted the subcontinents various kingdoms (which were only indirectly ruled by the British) to join their fledgling nations. The Hindu ruler of Muslim-majority Jammu and Kashmir dithered. Pakistan sponsored an invasion by irregular fighters, India intervened, and the two countries fought to a stalemate.

Today, they face off along a 740-kilometre de facto boundary known as the Line of Control, one of the worlds most militarised zones. The region also includes two areas that are controlled by China and claimed by India. Loading New Delhi accuses Islamabad of sponsoring militants active in Kashmir, while Pakistan says Indias government mistreats Kashmirs Muslims and has described the militants as freedom fighters. Indias government says they have been trained and funded by Pakistans military, and that their leaders continue to live freely in Pakistan. In 2019, New Delhi moved to tighten its control over Kashmir by revoking constitutional guarantees and flooding the region with more soldiers. In recent years, the area known for its dramatic mountain landscapes and lush valleys has become popular with tourists again. Could India and Pakistan really go to war again?

A full-scale war on multiple fronts would break with decades of precedent. Both countries governments are aware of the dangers of escalation, and world powers have in the past convinced them to back away from hostilities, aware of the risk that either side might reach for its nuclear missiles. Thousands were killed in the wars of 1947 and 1965, while conflicts since then have been more contained. Fighting in Kashmirs Kargil region in 1999 ended after less than three months following intense pressure on Pakistan by the US and a threat to withdraw International Monetary Fund loans to Islamabad. Flare-ups in recent years have been even more short-lived. In 2019, India launched air strikes within Pakistans borders for the first time in decades and, even after an aerial dogfight, both countries de-escalated tensions swiftly. What are the prospects of a reconciliation between India and Pakistan? A more substantial rapprochement appears unlikely. Indias stance on Pakistan has become more intransigent under the leadership of Hindu nationalist Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and India has said it will start peace talks only if Pakistan cracks down on militant groups that threaten Indias security.

Even if Pakistans civilian government wanted to bury hostilities, it would first need to win over a military establishment thats consistently spurned any such move. Pakistans military has in the past suggested that it would be open to allowing transit through the north of the country to India from Afghanistan and Central Asia, but withdrew the idea after Modi removed Kashmirs special status constitutional guarantees in 2019. Since then, Pakistan has said any peace talks can only happen after that decision is reversed. Loading The strategic stand-off between the US and China may also have reduced the impetus to improve ties. In the past few years, India has moved closer to the US, while Pakistan  historically a partner for Washington on security matters  has shifted towards Beijings orbit as China invested billions of dollars in the countrys infrastructure under its Belt and Road initiative. What have world leaders said since April 22? After an initial wave of condemnations of the attack on tourists, world leaders have called for both sides to avoid escalation.

International pressure has been piling on both New Delhi and Islamabad to ease tensions. Senior officials from the United States, China, Russia and Saudi Arabia have urged both sides to exercise restraint. Iran has offered to mediate. Meanwhile, both nations have launched an aggressive diplomatic campaign to shore up support for their positions. India has made efforts to highlight what it called the cross-border link to the attack by briefing diplomats of dozens of countries. The diplomatic outreach this time has been quite extensive and the idea for India would be to showcase whatever evidence it has to its partners and to make a case that whatever actions might be coming from its side has the support of its partners and allies, said Harsh Pant, the foreign policy head at the Observer Research Foundation think tank in New Delhi. Pakistan has offered to co-operate with an international investigation into the attack and reached out to dozens of foreign diplomats. Islamabad, however, said that it would match or exceed any military action by India.
Two weeks after a deadly terror attack in the disputed Kashmir region, India has fired missiles into Pakistan. The Indian government claims that it carried out nine precision strikes at terrorist camps in Kashmir as part of Operation Sindoor. Pakistan claims to have shot down several Indian jets and is threatening imminent retaliation. At least 34 people have been killed.

The escalation of tensions is unsurprising. As soon as the April 22 terror attack took place, Indian officials deemed Pakistani terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba culpable and accused the countrys authorities of complicity.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif angrily rejected these accusations and urged the US to steer India towards a course of de-escalation. These recommendations were not heeded by New Delhi.

Now that India and Pakistan are on an escalation course, the big question is what comes next. If youre an optimist, history suggests that a swift de-escalation could be on the cards.
Forget any visions of a Trumpian French Riviera of the Middle East blooming in Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is once again mobilising reservists to redouble efforts to achieve his twin aims of destroying Hamas and returning Israeli hostages snatched on October 7, 2023.

This week, Israel approved plans to seize the Gaza Strip, occupy the conflict zone for an unspecified amount of time, expand the buffer zone, and relocate the population to the south while taking over the distribution of humanitarian assistance with the help of US private military contractors.

Palestinians look at a house targeted by an Israeli army strike in Gaza earlier this month. Credit: AP

The planned commencement and expansion of Israeli ground operations in Gaza is likely to prove an early test for the second term Albanese government that, despite its focus on China and the Pacific region, has been reluctantly drawn into addressing the fallout from events in the Middle East. In an increasingly multicultural country, concentrating solely on our region is difficult for the Australian government. The added sectarian complexities inherent in the conflict, however, make dealing with the October 7 attack and Israels response an even more complex foreign policy challenge.

To date, more than 50,000 Gazans have died and much of the enclave lies in ruins, and neither of Netanyahus aims has yet been realised. This is because of the continuing disconnect between what Netanyahu seeks and what he has tasked his military to achieve.
The rise in mortgage interest charges was driven by higher mortgage debt levels and the continued rollover of expired fixed rate mortgages to higher variable rate mortgages, Tikaram said. The effect of the Reserve Bank of Australias cash rate cut in February 2025 will be seen in the June 2025 quarter due to the timing of the change in the cash rate.
Canadian PM says talks with Trump constructive despite no tariffs lifting

Xinhua) 08:57, May 07, 2025

U.S. President Donald Trump (C) welcomes Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney (R) at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on May 6, 2025. U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met in the White House on Tuesday, disagreeing on the "51st state" and trade issues, according to the live broadcast of CBC News. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

OTTAWA, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Tuesday he had wide-ranging and constructive discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump in the White House, although the two leaders disagreed on tariffs lifting and the "51st state," according to the live broadcast of CBC News.

Giving a post-meeting news conference in Washington, D.C., Carney said that he and Trump agreed to have further conversations in the coming weeks and meet again in person at the G7 summit in Kananaskis, Alberta.

Carney said he told Trump it's "not useful" to repeat the 51st state idea, adding that Trump is the president who is going to say whatever he wants. "He understands that we are having a negotiation between sovereign nations," said Carney.

Responding to the question if he is heading back to Ottawa with any tangible progress on ending the trade war, Carney said they had some very specific things to follow up on and build out from that.

"These are the discussions you have when you're looking to find solutions," he said.

While Trump made it clear that the tariffs, especially those on the auto sector, would stay in place, Carney said, "We'll see."

Canadian workers and suppliers in auto plant towns are worried that the longer the tariff dispute goes on, the less likely those finished cars are to be sold, reported CBC News.

"If he (Trump) actually achieves shutting down production in Canada and Mexico, it doesn't mean he's going to get new production in the U.S.," Flavio Volpe, president of Canada's Automotive Parts Manufacturers' Association, was quoted as saying.

Volpe said he hopes Carney will announce further meetings with Trump: "I want to know that we've set a date for the next game."

Trump posted a statement on his Truth Social account minutes before Carney's arrival at the White House, denigrating the importance of Canada to the U.S. economy.

"We don't need their Cars, we don't need their Energy, we don't need their Lumber, we don't need ANYTHING they have. They, on the other hand, need EVERYTHING from us!" wrote Trump.

Speaking to the media in the Oval Office earlier on Tuesday, Trump said the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is a "transitional step" that "terminates fairly shortly," making no commitment to its renewal.

Carney said the agreement is the "basis for a broader negotiation," adding that parts of it may change and other elements might be added during a potential renegotiation.

Trump repeated annexation threats toward Canada, which he said would be a "wonderful marriage" and called the border between the two countries "artificial" again.

The president said it would be best for Canada as the "51st state" of the United States with a lot of advantage, tax cut and free military.

While Carney jumped in to say that Canada is "never for sale," Trump quipped, "Never say never, ... time will tell."

The United States has put in place a 25 percent tariff on all goods, and 10 percent on energy and potash that isn't covered by USMCA. There's another 25 percent tax on Canadian steel and aluminum, and 25 percent on automobiles that aren't covered by USMCA.

In response, Canada put in place its own 25 percent tariffs on non-USMCA compliant vehicles, and additional fees on nearly 60 billion Canadian dollars (43.6 billion U.S. dollars) in steel and aluminum products, as well as consumer goods including juice, spirits, computers, apparel and cosmetics.

With the implementation of the new tariffs in March, Canada's trade with the United States fell in March, said Statistics Canada on Tuesday.

Carney traveled to Washington on Monday, his first foreign trip since winning a minority Liberal government in last week's federal election. The prime minister said the trip would be the first in a series of discussions on tariffs, military cooperation and other issues with the United States.

U.S. President Donald Trump (C) welcomes Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney (R) at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on May 6, 2025. U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met in the White House on Tuesday, disagreeing on the "51st state" and trade issues, according to the live broadcast of CBC News. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

U.S. President Donald Trump (2nd L) welcomes Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney (2nd R) at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on May 6, 2025. U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met in the White House on Tuesday, disagreeing on the "51st state" and trade issues, according to the live broadcast of CBC News. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

U.S. President Donald Trump (2nd L) welcomes Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney (2nd R) at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on May 6, 2025. U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met in the White House on Tuesday, disagreeing on the "51st state" and trade issues, according to the live broadcast of CBC News. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
"The broking industry supported these majors for quite a long time now," he continued. "Maybe they need to look at how they redistribute their product. The broker channel is a much more cost-effective method of distributing mortgages. And the benefit in using a broker, of course, is that the broker can act in the best interest of their client, whereas a banker can't. [The bank] can only recommend the product they had before them, which may or may not be in the best interest of the client."
This is it. The excise tax exemption on pickup trucks is now gone thanks to the effectivity of the Capital Market Efficiency Promotions Act ...
By Jonathan McCambridge, PA

No explanation has yet been provided why a leading loyalist had firearms and ammunition in the boot of his car, a court has been told.

However, a barrister for Winston Irvine said his long-term commitment to peace-building in Northern Ireland should be taken into account when he is sentenced for weapons offences.

Irvine, 49, of Ballysillan Road in north Belfast and co-accused Robin Workman, 54, of Shore Road in Larne, County Antrim were both remanded in custody following a sentencing hearing at Belfast Crown Court on Wednesday.

The sentencing hearing took place at Belfast Crown Court. Photo: Liam McBurney/PA.

They had previously admitted possession of a firearm and ammunition in suspicious circumstances.

They also admitted two counts of possessing a handgun without a certificate, one count of possessing ammunition without a certificate, possessing a prohibited weapon and possessing a firearm without a certificate.

Workman further pleaded guilty to possessing a .177 calibre air rifle without holding a firearm certificate.

The court heard that the offences were committed on June 8th 2022.

A prosecuting barrister said that Workman transported a quantity of weapons and ammunition to the Glencairn area of Belfast in his van, which were then put into the boot of Irvines Volkswagen Tiguan car.

A short time later Irvines vehicle was stopped by police in Disraeli Street.

A long-barrelled firearm, two suspected pistols, several magazines and a large quantity of ammunition were discovered inside a bag in the boot.

The barrister said that during police interview Irvine had given a statement outlining his work as a community representative and interlocutor.

The court was told that a UVF magazine was discovered during a subsequent police search of Workmans house.

The barrister said: No explanation has been forthcoming to this day about what was going on with these firearms.

He said there was no evidence that they had been intended for terrorist use.

Brenda Campbell KC, representing Irvine, said he had a proven long-term commitment to peace-building in Northern Ireland.

She told the court he had directly engaged with a number of groups, including the UK and Irish governments, over the years.

Ms Campbell said a number of references had been provided for Irvine, including from David Campbell, chairman of the Loyalist Communities Council (LCC).

She said Mr Campbell had described Irvine as a key figure in discussions within the loyalist community in moving away from paramilitarism.

The barrister added: At critical junctures he has brought people away from violence to peace.

Winston Irvine was told he would be sentenced next week. Photo: Liam McBurney/PA.

She said he had only been in possession of the low grade firearms for a few minutes and there was no evidence of violent or terrorist intent.

Ms Campbell said: The possession of these items ought not to hold this man back from making a continued contribution in the not-too-distant future.

Michael Borrelli KC, representing Workman, said his client was occasionally asked to undertake work as a messenger to prevent problematical situations.

He told the court that he had been asked to transport a bag in his vehicle, and became suspicious when he picked it up that it contained firearms.

The barrister said when his client saw Irvine in Belfast it confirmed his belief that the weapons were to be taken out of circulation.

In response, the prosecuting barrister said there was no evidential basis for the contention that the weapons were to be taken out of commission.

Judge Gordon Kerr KC said he would pass sentence in the case next Thursday.

However, he said he was satisfied that the custodial threshold had been met and ordered the two defendants to be remanded in custody.
LOCAL businesses across the county are being invited to participate in the prestigious Carlow Business Awards 2025, with nominations now open to the public.

The awards, sponsored for the second consecutive year by Carlow Credit Union, were officially launched at an event hosted by South East Technological University (SETU). Last years overall winner, Caredoc, played host to the launch ceremony.

Carlow Credit Union CEO Ultan Ryan emphasised the importance of these awards in recognising businesses that contribute to the local community, stating: Every business that enters is giving back to their local community in some way, whether that is through employing people, using local suppliers, providing key services or skills, supporting local clubs or donating to charities. Their impact cannot be underestimated.

Last years awards saw impressive participation with over 400 nominations for more than 140 businesses across all 26 categories. The chamber welcomes nominations from businesses of all sizes and sectors, as well as from members of the public wishing to recognise exceptional local enterprises.

Michael Quinn, president of County Carlow Chamber of Commerce, explained that the Carlow Business Awards were developed to recognise and reward excellence in business throughout the county. He noted that the recognition has tangible benefits for finalists and winners.

Margaret Curran, general manager of Caredoc, reflected on the impact of winning last years top honour: Caredoc were very proud to be selected as the overall Carlow Business of the Year at last years awards ceremony. We felt it was a real recognition of the work we do, and of the fantastic team that work at Caredoc.

Nominations can be submitted through a simple online form on the chambers website. Nominating is quick and easy. The online form takes less than two minutes to complete  and can make all the difference, said Nicola Doran, CEO of County Carlow Chamber.

The closing date for nominations is midnight on Sunday 8 June. Following the initial nominations, shortlisted businesses will be invited to submit more detailed applications in mid-June, with finalists announced in August.

The winners will be revealed at the Carlow Business Awards ceremony at Visual on 18 September, with tickets going on sale in August.

For more information or to submit nominations, visit www.carlowchamber.com.
Shaws Department Stores, a trusted leader in fashion and retail, is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Cortefiel, bringing its spring  summer 2025 collection to 10 Shaws locations across Ireland, as well as online. Customers now have the opportunity to explore this hugely popular Spanish brand.

Cortefiel is celebrated for its commitment to high-quality fabrics and adaptable designs that easily complement any wardrobe. This collection seamlessly blends directional pieces with modern updates, making it the perfect choice for those seeking effortless style for any occasion.

Cortefiel range at Shaws

Emma Hill, Head of Buying for Shaws says, "We are delighted to welcome Cortefiel to Shaws this spring, offering our customers a beautifully curated collection that blends timeless elegance with modern versatility. With a focus on quality fabrics and effortless comfort, Cortefiels Spring-Summer 2025 collection is designed for everyday style, making it easy to feel confident and chic Cortefiel is a fashion brand that emphasizes timeless elegance by incorporating key trends, including marine inspired elements with crisp blue and white tones for a fresh balanced look. Bold colour blocking also makes a statement, featuring vibrant yellow, navy blue, and army green. Additionally, the collection embraces classic preppy and varsity styles, offering a fresh edge to traditional designs.

https://shaws.ie/pages/cortefiel
New radio, print, and digital ad campaign champions law guaranteeing equal insurance coverage for mental and physical health

ATLANTA (May 7, 2025)  The Carter Center, with support from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, has launched a public awareness campaign in the Atlanta metropolitan area to encourage women in our community who are less likely to receive services to seek mental health treatment.



The multimedia campaign aims to educate all residents about Georgias Mental Health Parity Act of 2022 (HB 1013), a bipartisan law that requires insurers to provide the same level of coverage for mental health as physical health.

According to the National Institutes of Health, more than one in five adults in the U.S. have at least one mental illness. Research also has found that Black women experience more severe and chronic mental illnesses, in part because they are less likely to seek care. According to an Urban Institute report, Improving Mental Health Care Access for Middle Class Black Women, even Black women with greater financial means are less likely to seek mental health treatment because of previous poor experiences in the healthcare system, cost, and perceptions of stigma for having a mental illness.

Georgia guarantees the right to access mental health treatment through insurance coverage, but many people are still unaware of this benefit, said Dr. Kashef Ijaz, vice president of the Carter Centers health programs. When we support all communities that are disproportionately impacted by health issues, the well-being of the whole community improves.



The public awareness campaign, which focuses on equal access to care for both the body and the mind, continues the Carter Centers long-standing commitment to reduce discriminatory practices that result from stigma and improve access to treatment across Georgia and the nation. Improving mental health and well-being for all was a lifetime goal of the late Carter Center co-founder and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter.



The campaign was created with input from Atlanta community leaders from diverse backgrounds representing the metropolitan area and incorporates feedback from previous campaigns in Albany and Savannah. The Carter Center-led Georgia Parity Collaborative, a coalition of more than 80 mental health parity advocates from various sectors, also provided input for the campaign goals and ads. The campaign website, GeorgiaMentalHealth.com, offers guidance about what to do if an insurance claim is denied.



The public awareness campaign will be on airwaves, digital billboards, in pharmacies, and in spaces throughout Atlanta to remind and encourage all individuals to prioritize their mental well-being, said Dr. Eve Byrd, director of the Carter Centers Mental Health Program. You deserve equal care for your mind and your body, and thanks to Georgias 2022 Mental Health Parity Act, care for your mind should be as affordable as it is for your body with your health insurance plan.



The Carter Centers campaign ads will run in Atlanta-area markets from May until mid-July on multiple platforms, including:

Streaming music services like Spotify and Pandora

Local radio stations (WAMJ-FM; WHTA-FM; WVEE-FM; WALR-FM)

Doctors offices and pharmacies

Digital billboards and displays around Atlanta

The Atlanta Voice newspaper

The public is invited to participate in the awareness campaign by taking a picture of a campaign ad and sharing it on social media, tagging The Carter Center (Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn).

###

Media Contacts

Rennie Sloan, The Carter Center, rennie.sloan@cartercenter.org

Lily Fleenor, Jackson Spalding, lfleenor@jacksonspalding.com

The Carter Center

Waging Peace. Fighting Disease. Building Hope.

A not-for-profit, nongovernmental organization, The Carter Center has helped to improve life for people in over 80 countries by resolving conflicts; advancing democracy, human rights, and economic opportunity; preventing diseases; and improving mental health care. The Carter Center was founded in 1982 by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, in partnership with Emory University, to advance peace and health worldwide.
Advertisement

According to the statement, Heidelberg Materials posted a profit of BDT196.5m (US$1.65m) in 1QCY25 (Jan- March), significantly lower than BDT393.2m in the same quarter last year. During the quarter, its revenue dropped by 11 per cent to BDT4.29bn compared to the previous year's quarter.

Meanwhile, according to its statement, the company recommended a 25 per cent cash dividend to its shareholders for 2024. It had paid the same dividend in 2023. Heidelberg Materials will hold the annual general meeting on 16 June to approve last year's dividend and the audited financial statement. The record date is 20 May.

The company was listed on the Dhaka bourse in 1989 as Chittagong Cement Clinkers Grinder. It was later acquired by HeidelbergCement, which is currently renamed Heidelberg Materials.

Its sponsors and directors hold 60.67 per cent of shares, institutional investors 28.42 per cent, foreign investors 0.04 per cent, and general shareholders 10.87 per cent.

By Abdul Rab Siddiqi, Pakistan
Advertisement

Titan Group announces its partnership with Investing For Purpose (IFP), a Greek initiative that promotes impact investing by matching investors willing to invest long-term capital with start-ups and companies that create positive impact returns for society and the environment.

By joining Investing For Purpose, Titan gains access to a large and diverse pool of Greek purpose-driven companies seeking funding and can select the ones it wishes to invest in, focussing on the ones relevant to its core business and taking into consideration the priorities of its sustainability strategy, financial criteria, as well as the purposes of IFPs pipeline companies.



The partnership with IFP, which focusses on thematic areas such as environment, circular economy, education, diversity and inclusion and more, showcases Titans dedication to supporting initiatives with a positive environmental and social footprint. As part of the partnership, Titan will also provide the selected companies with mentorship, supporting them to grow and multiply their impact.

Titan will invest up to EUR40m in the medium term, supporting the scale-up of innovative startups and funds and bolstering its growth strategy. As part of said initiative, Titan has already invested in six startups and two venture capital funds, forging partnerships that address challenges of the building materials industry and promote sustainable construction.
Breaking News Would you like to receive our breaking news news? Signup today!

e-Edition Subscribers e-Edition Only - $39.00 Year This is the exact replica of our weekly printed paper. Great for searching archives!

General Interest Imported List: General Interest
Friends, family and the community gathered in the Conference Center at Georgia Northwestern Technical Colleges (GNTC) Gordon County Campus in Calhoun on May 2 to honor 13 students graduating from Basic Law Enforcement Training Class #BL11-2025-01.

The Basic Law Enforcement (BLE) program is designed to train and prepare graduates for employment as entry-level Peace Officer Standards and Training Council (POST) certified law enforcement officers.

That badge isnt just a symbol; its a promise, said Whitfield County Sheriff Darren J. Pierce, guest speaker at the ceremony. It represents the trust the public places in you to protect, to serve, to act justly and to stand in the gap when others cannot or will not.

When you wear that badge, you are telling the world you have chosen a life not of comfort, but of conviction, Pierce said. Youve accepted a sacred dutyone that demands courage, integrity, humility and compassion every single day. The badge that you wear is earned; it is not given.

Zachary Taylor served as the student speaker for the ceremony.

Emalee Weaver was presented with the Academic (Honor Graduate) Award for having the highest grade point average; she also received the Top Gun award for excellence in marksmanship.

Five students at some point during practice or qualification shot perfect scores. Weve never had that many students score that many perfect scores, Pledger said. Weaver shot a total of seven perfect scores, three times during practice and four times during qualification, and that was with all of the weapons that we issued.

Weaver broke her left thumb before the class started basic firearms training, so she shot the perfect scores with a bandaged thumb. In recognition of this accomplishment, Pledger humorously presented her with the Throbbing Thumb Award.

Graduates recited their Oath of Honor at the conclusion of the ceremony, vowing On my honor, I will never betray my badge, my integrity, my character or the public trust. I will always have the courage to hold myself and others accountable for our actions. I will always uphold the Constitution, my community and the agency I serve.

Graduates of Basic Law Enforcement Training Class #BL11-2025-01 are Jamal Bragg, Isaac Casey, Greg Gregory, Kevin Lively, Joshua McClure, Justin Middlebrooks, Ethan Patino, Wesley Stewart, Zachary Taylor, Scott Thompson, Emalee Weaver, James Williams and Tucker Wilson.

Casey and Stewart are employed by the Murray County Sheriffs Office.

Bragg, McClure, Taylor, Thompson and Wilson are employed by the Walker County Sheriffs Office; Lively, Middlebrooks, Weaver and Williams are employed by the Whitfield County Sheriffs Office.

Gregory and Patino are preservice.
A Hixson man was killed and his wife critically injured in a crash in West Virginia on Monday morning.

Authorities said Ronald J. Carelli, 54, of Crescent Club Drive, died when his 2024 Subaru Outback ran into the back of a Division of Highways dump truck.

His wife, Misty Carelli, 52, was airlifted with "very critical injuries."

The wreck happened at a stoplight at the intersection of State Route 41 and U.S. Route 19 at Mount Nebo. The Carellis were traveling south on Route 19.

It happened around 9:22 a.m.

The truck was carrying a full load and was stopped at a light. Police said the visibility was clear. The car caught fire, but emergency personnel were able to remove the couple from the vehicle.

The dump truck driver was not injured.

The Carellis are members of Abba's House in Hixson.
The Calvary Chapel wing of the Hamilton County Republican Party is at its witchcraft again.

Instead of following the words of Jesus to let the little children come, High Priestess Greene attempts to casts her spell upon the Hamilton County School Board and bar immigrant children from seeking an elementary education.

According to High Priestess Greene and other members of her coven, the under-funding of our schools can be cured by excluding immigrant children. With the whiff of her witchy-wand, she can make thousands of our children disappear.

But never fear. We are lucky to have Mr. Joe Smith, Hamilton County School Board chairman, standing in the gap to seek a solution to the current funding gap without hurting our children.

Stand firm, Joe.

C. Mark Warren

* * *

Mr. Warren,

Perhaps you should leave the story telling and name calling to the first graders of Hamilton County and give us adults a break from your childish, but, "oh so cute" diatribes.

On a more serious note, the school funding issue can be wholly rectified by scrutinizing the Central Office with a DOGE mentality. Most companies in financial strain will have layoffs, cut programs and in this present day, eliminate DEI. An audit of the Central Office would make an excellent first step to find some dollars to cut from their over-sized budget. Where is that School Board when you need one?

For those County Commissioners trying to shirk their duties on school funding by passing their buck to the voters.....being namby-pamby is not the way do the job you were elected to perform. Do your job or resign and let someone get on board that's better suited to resolve budget problems. Very simple. Move forward or get out of the way.

And for posterity and reminiscing of past school budget years, I will invoke the "school budget beaten dead horse ad nauseam" mantra one more time....."and let us not forget, it's for the children".

On the flip side, "read my lips, no new taxes". We can only hope.

Phil Snider

* * *

I'm going to start my rely at the bottom, because it is really at the top. Phil Snider, you hit the nail on the head with your reply about school funding. C. Mark Warren, as is his usual self, I believe wrote what he was directed to write. We always want to guilt the taxpayers, rather than find real solutions to the problem. Let's threaten to take things away from "the little children" rather than address the top-heavy administration. Mr. Snider, I think you know that the administration doesn't start with cutting their own pay, or a few extra positions, they start with cutting programs and teachers.





Now, for what I see as the most crass and egregious portion of C. Mark Warren's opinion, did I really see his blatant referral to Calvary Chaple as a coven? Surely, he knows that a coven is a group of 13 witches, an idea promoted by Margaret Murray in 1921, not just as a hypothesis, but based on fact regarding the pagan religion of serving and worshiping the "horned god". We know him as Satan.

Calling Ms. Greene a "High Priestess" is nothing short of slander. Although Mr. Warren is a car/truck wreck injury lawyer, surely, he knows that is "libel", as it is damaging to her reputation. And the same for Calavary Chapel. In full disclosure, I don't worship there, but I have a lot of friends who do, and they hear the word of God and worship as brothers and sisters, not pagans.





If this were about a Constitutional matter, I would give him a pass, as he has proven he doesn't remember that class in law school. It's really no excuse, but I'm in a forgiving mood, somewhat. However, I hope that someone, especially Ms. Greene, will take him to task over this and make him pay dearly for what he has done. To do nothing, at this point, is tantamount to allowing him to get away with blasphemy. That's something we cannot tolerate in a civil society, founded under the principles of God.





J. Pat Williams




Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti on Tuesday announced the official opening of the claims process for providing limited restitution to former patients of HRC Medical Centers, which deceptively advertised hormone therapy treatments.

The Tennessee Attorney Generals Office has worked for more than a decade to recover funds for consumers. The Office sued HRC Medical Centers in 2012, alleging that HRC made numerous deceptive statements in the advertising of its bioidentical hormone replacement therapy treatments, and obtained an $18 million judgment against the company in 2017. After years of additional litigation to maximize collection of the judgment amount, the Office believes it has collected all currently available assets of the defendants and is commencing distribution of the approximately $1.5 million it has been able to collect to the consumers who were harmed by HRCs deception.

For more than a decade, our office has worked hard to protect consumers and secure restitution from HRC Medical Centers for misleading Tennesseans about the safety and efficacy of life-altering treatments, said Attorney General Skrmetti. While we are disappointed we could not recover more, we've known for a long time that funds would be limited and we fought to obtain every possible dollar for consumers.

Consumers who purchased bioidentical hormone replacement therapy treatments from one of HRCs three Tennessee locations in Nashville, Knoxville and Memphis are eligible for restitution. The restitution fund will be split among all consumers who file a valid claim, with a maximum of $2,250 recovery for each individual consumer. The lawsuit did not address medical malpractice or negligence claims, so the restitution payments will not include compensation for any medical injuries consumers may have sustained.

Eligible consumers seeking restitution must submit a claims form by August 30, 2025. Forms will be mailed to known eligible consumers. Consumers can also visit the restitution settlement website at www.HRCRestitutionFund.com. The restitution fund administrator is KCC Class Action Services, also known as Verita. In addition to the website, KCC/Verita is providing a phone line for consumer inquiries and can be contacted with any questions or concerns about the administration process at 1-833-419-4862.
Marinela Cruz, junior math and chemistry double major at Southern Adventist University, presented her research titled Cycles in Grid Graphs and Toroidal Variants at the Joint Mathematics Meetings, the largest mathematics conference in the world, earlier this semester.I wanted to do research before deciding if graduate school was something I should pursue, and through the Southern Scholars honors program, I was pointed to Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) programs, Cruz explains.REU programs exist at universities across the United States, providing undergraduate students crucial investigative experience.Much of the current research in mathematics is not accessible to undergraduate students since they lack the necessary foundations to complete this work, says Patricia Anderson, PhD, professor in Southerns Mathematics Department. When a student can contribute to mathematical research through an REU, it provides a preliminary introduction to the vast arena of knowledge that is mathematics.Cruz joined the summer REU program at Andrews University in Michigan, a sister school of Southern. She worked with knot theory, graph theory, and combinatorics to generalize the constraints of a Hamiltonian cycle inside a traditional grid graph as well as within a toroidal graph.Southerns math courses provided Cruz with a strong foundation for the research undertaking. Before the REU, I took Set Theory and Logic, which is Southerns introduction to proofs class, she explains. Math research is all about proving, and that class taught me to think in the very specific way needed to demonstrate truth and existence mathematically. Cruz also learned how to use LaTeX, a typesetting software used across research in the discipline to type equations.Cruz applied to present her summer research findings in the undergraduate poster session at the Joint Mathematics Meetings, held in Seattle earlier this year. Not only was she accepted, but she also applied for and earned a grant from the American Mathematical Society to cover all travel expenses for the trip.I loved being in a community that matched my passion for math and research, Cruz shares. Id never attended a conference before, and it was interesting learning about everyones unique area of interest in such a broad discipline. Throughout the conference, she visited several other presentations, including a graduate school fair.I was impressed by the quality of Marinelas work and her enthusiasm, notes Anderson. It can be daunting for an undergraduate student to present at a conference filled with professional mathematicians, and she did a credible job.
Bryan College is pleased to announce that four of its students earned Runner-Up honors at

the 2025 Direct Effect Innovation Competition (DEIC) for their innovative marketing campaign

developed for Geico Insurance.



The team included the following students:



 Madison Carter, a junior majoring in Management

 Alan Cloud, a graduating senior majoring in Economics & Finance

 Lacey Mayes, a junior majoring in Criminal Psychology

 Chris Stewart, a graduating senior majoring in Economics & Finance



The DEIC, hosted annually by the United States Postal Service (USPS), is a two-day national event that challenges college students to craft compelling marketing campaigns incorporating a direct mail component. This years competition featured corporate sponsors Geico and Chick-fil-A.



Bryans student team impressed the judges with a clever, boat-themed direct mail campaign tailored for Geico. Their creative approach and strategic thinking stood out among entries from colleges and universities across the country.



The students were guided and supported by faculty sponsor Dr. Daniel Gates, Professor of Business at Bryan College, who accompanied them to the event.



Bryan College congratulates Madison, Alan, Lacey, and Chris on their remarkable achievement and

celebrates the dedication of both its students and faculty members.
Contrasting how Democrats and the media reacted to Joe Biden and John Fetterman reveal much about their party now. For years, Bidens decline was dismissed as gaffes while suggestions he was unable to be president were met with personal attacks. Reporters feared helping Trump or losing access to Joes advisers for much coveted interviews.

While some of the tell all books are more forthcoming, one took the position Joes close advisers werent covering up his condition. Rather Chris Whipple (Uncharted) believes they were in a fog of delusion believing he could serve another term (Deseret News 4/10/25). Former Biden press secretary, Jen Psaki, on her MSNBC show struggled trying to disconnect the idea of a Biden cover-up with a Watergate cover-up. When your job has been White House spinmeister, of course you spin like a top.

When John Fetterman was running for the U.S. Senate, he suffered a stroke. His health was called into question by many including his opponent, a medical doctor. Dr Ozs concerns were met with attacks on him as being a fraud and claims Oz was mocking Fettermans condition (NBC 9/6/22).

When the party elites turned on Joe, the soft coup ousted him. Unlike with Biden, its Fettermans own staff stating concerns about his mental fitness (Democracy Now 5/5/25). Some have left him as many reports of his erratic behavior emerged according to current and former staffers (Newsweek 5/2/25). One such was a concern that he drives recklessly but that didnt get Ted Kennedy kicked out of the party or the Senate did it?

Im not saying Fetterman doesnt have serious issues however its blatantly hypocritical to see how hes being treated compared to Joe where more was at stake. It also cant be ignored how these concerns skyrocketed after Fetterman expressed strong support for Israel and visited Mar-a-largo. So how can Democrats be this way? The answer is, they do it with mirrors.

Ralph Miller
25-004806  1000 BLK Bass Pro Drive  Disorder The caller reported a possible road rage event with a male wearing a neon/green work jacket in a white Chrysler 300 (bearing Tn. Tag). According to the complainant, the subject followed him into the parking lot of Bass Pro after some unknown traffic issue in the 6700 block of Ringgold Rd. He stated the subject approached him at his RV and attempted to argue with him over the incident.During the interaction, the complainant stated the subject indicated some kind of threat, which made him feel uncomfortable due to he and his family parking in the parking lot of the business for the foreseeable future. At this time, the complainant requested the incident be documented in case the subject returned. Day Shift May 6: B Squad

25-004791  900 BLK Belvoir Ave  Noise Complaint Police responded to this address for a noise complaint from the neighbor regarding a barking dog. Further investigation revealed that ERAS was at this address for the same complaint on April 29, when they determined the barking dog did not fit the requirements for citation nor a verbal warning. On April 29, the dogs owner was compliant with ERAS and remedied all the issues they viewed. During todays visit, officers did not observe the Belgian Malinois to fit East Ridges barking dog ordinance.

25-004795  6700 BLK Ringgold Road - Fraud An employee of a construction company called to report fraud. A check was intercepted, and the payee/plus amount was changed. The company needed a report made so they can give it to the bank. Charges pending upon the identification of suspect.

25-004800- 1500 BLK Melody Lane-Noise Complaint A party called to report his neighbors dogs barking excessively at the listed address. The issue was referred to East Ridge Animal services for follow-up.

25-004803- 4300 BLK Ringgold Road- Found Narcotics Police were notified that a wallet that was found sometime around March was about to be disposed of by shredding. Staff then discovered a baggie of suspect methamphetamine. The meth was seized for destruction.

25-004804- 5400 BLK Oakdale Avenue- Theft from a vehicle Workers stated that the homeowner was going through their truck and stole $400 cash out of a wallet and two Dewalt batteries valued at $200 apiece. The worker stated the homeowner was driving an older model four-door Dodge Dakota with driver-side damage. They described the suspect as a male with multiple tattoos, and as having a prosthetic leg.

25-004808-300 BLK Camp Jordon Road-Property Damage/Civil Matter Police advised the caller on the proper procedure of taking a former tenement to civil court for damages to her rental property, property damage report on file.

25-004809  5900 BLK Ringgold Road  Located Missing Person Police spoke with a man at this location after receiving an LPR notification from his license plate on his silver/gold Buick LeSabre, entered NCIC for him being missing/suicidal. Upon speaking with the subject, he advised he was not suicidal or missing but had to get away from a hostile situation at his home in Robertson County. Hamilton County sent a YQ message to RCSO and he was removed from NCIC.

25-004810  900 BLK Spring Creek Road  Extra Patrol The medical professionals of this location requested extra patrol during business hours due to increased transient traffic and panhandling in the area.

Night Shift May 6: D Squad

25-004812  1300 BLK Adonna Lane  Civil Matter A divorced husband of two years requested a police report after his ex-wife withdrew over $200.00 from their joint bank account. The complainant was advised to retain legal counsel for the civil matter.

25-004815  5400 BLK Oakdale Avenue  Supplement/Arrest A man was arrested for misdemeanor theft and released with a court summons after he was observed pilfering through a contractors work truck during a case from earlier in the day. The truck's owner later reported the theft of $400 in cash and work tools.

25-004817-4214 Ringgold Rd.-Warrant Service A party was served with two outstanding East Ridge arrest warrants for Forfeiture Capias and Failure to appear. The original charges were driving on suspended.

25-004819  5300 BLK State Line Road  Miscellaneous Complaint A woman reported her ex-boyfriend had entered her home without permission. She stated this was not the first time he had done this. Additionally, she said she had left her door unlocked. The woman requested that a report be completed to document the incident. No charges are sought currently.

25-004825  6700 BLK Ringgold Rd  Alarm Officers were dispatched regarding a back door alarm. The employee originally gave the incorrect code. On-scene officers spoke to the general manager who stated they have different codes and that the alarm company possibly doesnt have them all. Employees were unloading a shipment of supplies.
7/5/2025

Here is the latest Hamilton County arrest report. (If your case is dismissed, just email us your name and date we ran it and we will promptly take off. Email to news@chattanoogan.com ) ANDRUS,KIMBERLEE ... more
graphene is a "miracle material": mechanically extremely strong and electrically highly conductive, ideal for related applications. Using a worldwide unique method physicists at the University of Vienna led by Jani Kotakoski have for the first time made graphene drastically more stretchable by rippling it like an accordion. This paves the way for new applications in which certain stretchability is required (e.g. wearable electronics). In a collaboration with the Vienna University of Technology the exact mechanism of this phenomenon has been revealed and published in the journal Physical Review Letters.

The first experimental evidence of graphene in 2004 established a completely new class of materials, the so-called two-dimensional (2D) solids. Their name stems from the fact that they are only a single layer of atoms thick, giving rise to exotic material properties that could benefit various areas of application. Graphene for example stands out with its enormous electrical conductivity, but it is also very stiff. This extreme stiffness is a result of the honeycomb-shaped arrangement of the atoms in the material. Intuitively, the removal of some atoms from the material alongside their bonds should lead to a reduction in stiffness. However, scientific studies have reported both a slight reduction as well as a significant increase.

These contradictions have now been clarified through new measurements conducted by researchers of the group led by Jani Kotakoski at the University of Vienna. The experiments were carried out with state-of-the-art devices all sharing the same ultra-clean airless environment. This allows transporting samples between the different devices without ever being exposed to ambient air. "This unique system we have developed in the University of Vienna allows us to examine 2D materials without interference," explains Jani Kotakoski. Wael Joudi, first author of the study adds: "For the first time this kind of experiment has been carried out with the graphene fully isolated from ambient air and the foreign particles it contains. Without this separation, these particles would quickly settle on the surface affecting the experiment procedure and measurements."

In fact, the focus on meticulous cleanliness of the material surface led to the discovery of the so-called accordion effect with regard to the stiffness of graphene: already the removal of two neighbouring atoms leads to discernible bulging of the initially flat material. Several bulges together result in a corrugation of the material: "You can imagine it like an accordion. When pulled apart, the waved material now gets flattened, which requires much less force than stretching the flat material and therefore it becomes more stretchable," explains Wael Joudi. Simulations carried out by the theoretical physicists Rika Saskia Windisch and Florian Libisch from the Vienna University of Technology confirm both the formation of waves and the resulting stretchability.
Home News 'Generational win': Alabama's ban on sex-change surgeries, puberty blockers for kids defeats ACLU lawsuit

Litigation over an Alabama law prohibiting minors from obtaining life-altering sex-change surgeries and hormone drugs has come to an end in what one top elected official in the state is describing as a "generational win."

In a joint stipulation of dismissal filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Alabama's Northern Division on Thursday, the plaintiffs in a case challenging Alabama's ban on gender transition surgeries for minors agreed to dismiss their lawsuit "without costs or fees to any party."

The office of Alabama's Republican Attorney General Steve Marshall elaborated on the implications of this development and the history of the litigation surrounding the law in a statement published Thursday.

Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe

"Three years ago, multiple sets of plaintiffs, represented by the ACLU, [Southern Poverty Law Center] and some of the nation's largest law firms, filed suit against Alabama to challenge our law protecting vulnerable kids from life-altering sex change procedures," Marshall said. "We fought back. We defeated a preliminary injunction and conducted court-ordered discovery into the so-called' standards of care' that these groups claimed were evidence-based."

Marshall said that what his office discovered was "devastating to the plaintiffs' challenge: a medical, legal, and political scandal that will be studied for decades." He maintained, "Given the evidence we uncovered, it is no surprise the plaintiffs abandoned their challenge."

"We uncovered the truth. We exposed the scandal. We won. Alabama led the way, and now all families are safer for it," he added. "This victory is not just for Alabama. This is a generational win for children, families, and for reality itself. Alabama refused to be bullied. Now, the rest of the country is seeing the truth. We are proud to lead that effort."

In a statement shared with media, Scott McCoy, deputy legal director of inclusion and anti-extremism litigation at the far-left civil rights group SPLC, praised "the courage of these plaintiffs" and vowed to "continue fighting to ensure families across the country have the freedom to get their transgender children the proven medical care that enables them to thrive."

"The shutting down of medical care in Alabama has forced our plaintiffs and other Alabama families to make heart wrenching decisions that no family should ever have to make, and they are each making the decisions they need to make that are right for them," McCoy said.

The conclusion of the litigation against the Alabama law comes less than two months after the federal government under the Trump administration pulled out of the lawsuit, which the Biden administration had joined in an attempt to defeat the legislation in court.

As Marshall alluded to in his statement, the discovery process associated with the lawsuit resulted in his office finding that the "standards of care" used by LGBT advocacy groups that push for the performance of life-altering procedures on trans-identified youth were not "evidence-based" despite consistent assertions to the contrary.

Marshall's office states that the discovery exposed that "key medical organizations misled parents, promoted unproven treatments as settled science, and ignored growing international concern over the use of sex-change procedures to treat gender dysphoria in minors."

The attorney general outlined his findings in a friend-of-the-court brief issued in support of a Tennessee law banning so-called gender transition procedures for minors that is currently before the U.S. Supreme Court. He highlighted how the eighth version of the World Professional Association of Transgender Health's Standards of Care was compiled based on the advice of "social justice lawyers [they] spoke with" as opposed to a scientific review of the effects of gender transition procedures on minors.

According to the brief, WPATH determined that "evidence-based review reveals little or no evidence and puts us in an untenable position in terms of affecting policy or winning lawsuits."

Alabama was one of the first states to enact a law banning trans-identified youth from obtaining puberty-blocking drugs, cross-sex hormones and body-mutilating surgeries for the purpose of changing genders. Shortly after the law's passage in 2022, a federal judge put the portion of the law banning puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones on hold while upholding the prohibition on gender transition surgeries.

Other states that have enacted laws banning some or all forms of gender transition procedures for minors due to concerns about their long-term impacts are Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia and Wyoming.

The American College of Pediatricians has warned that puberty blockers can cause "osteoporosis, mood disorders, seizures, cognitive impairment and, when combined with cross-sex hormones, sterility." Meanwhile, the ACP lists possible side effects of cross-sex hormones as "an increased risk of heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, blood clots and cancers across their lifespan."
Home News LCPS 'targeting' male students who oppose sharing locker room with girl, advocates say

A father accused Loudoun County Public Schools in Virginia of targeting his son after the district launched a Title IX investigation against the boy and two other teens caught on camera expressing discomfort about sharing a locker room with a girl who identifies as male.

The Founding Freedoms Law Center, the legal arm of The Family Foundation, a socially conservative organization, represents two high school sophomores and their parents.

LCPS opened the Title IX investigation against the two teens and one other boy for "sexual harassment," according to the legal arm's Tuesday statement.

Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe

"My 15-year-old son is being unfairly targeted for simply asking a basic question that any boy would be asking in that situation," Seth Wolfe, the father of one of the teenagers, said in a statement.

"It's astonishing that Loudoun school officials are subjecting him to a formal investigation for a bogus charge that could derail his life," Wolfe added.

The Washington D.C.-area school district has a policy that allows trans-identifying students to use the restroom or locker room intended for the opposite sex. The policy also states that school staff members are to use a trans-identifying student's chosen name and pronouns "regardless of the name and gender recorded in the student's permanent educational record."

As WJLA reported this week, a female student at Stone Bridge High School who identifies as male was allowed to change in the boys' locker room. After gym class one day in March, the student used her phone to record several boys who wondered why a girl was in their locker room.

According to the Founding Freedoms Law Center, one of the clients, whose name has not been revealed, reportedly asked: "Why is there a girl in the locker room?" Another boy told the P.E. teacher and the high school principal that he was uncomfortable changing in the locker room with a girl.

The legal center is asking the school district to end its investigation against the boys.

"This is yet another egregious example of how LCPS continues to defy state law on transgender policies as well as President Trump's recent executive orders," Josh Hetzler, legal counsel for the law center and the Wolfe family's attorney, said in statement.

"This high school boy did absolutely nothing wrong, and LCPS needs to end this baseless investigation immediately," the attorney declared.

Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares also commented on the situation, according to WJLA, stating that policies like the ones at LCPS are putting young boys and girls in an "untenable position."

"I think this is an example, yet again, a school district that tries to be so open-minded their brain falls out," Miyares declared. "The fact that it's 2025 and there are people that are advocating and pushing for members of the opposite sex to be in a teenager's locker room, and they think somehow that's being open-minded and tolerant?"

A spokesperson for LCPS told CP that WJLA's report contains "false and misleading information presented in a biased manner from a single source." The public information officer for the school district also accused Miyares of relying on a sole media report to publicly criticize LCPS.

"We reject any characterization that implies our schools are unsafe or that we fail to protect the rights of all students," the LCPS spokesperson told CP. "We remain steadfast in our legal and ethical obligation to uphold the rights of every student and will continue to create and nurture an environment that is welcoming and accepting for all students, so that everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and succeed."

The spokesperson also claimed that LCPS would not investigate or discipline students based on their personal opinions unless their behavior violates LCPS' Student Rights & Responsibilities Handbook for Families and Student Code of Conduct.

As the situation at Stone Bridge High School could result in disciplinary action, the spokesperson declined to discuss the specifics of the matter publicly, citing concerns about the students' privacy.

Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Education confirmed it was investigating LCPS following a complaint from American First Legal that accused Loudoun and several other school systems of violating Title IX by allowing trans-identifying students to use locker rooms and bathrooms based on gender identity.

The investigation is not the first time LCPS policies have garnered national media attention.

In May 2021, a male student at Stone Bridge High School wore a skirt and entered the girls' bathroom, where he then proceeded to sexually assault a female student. The student was transferred to another high school in the district, Broad Run High School, where he assaulted another female student a few months later.

During a June 2021 school board meeting, parents and community members objected to Policy 8040, which permitted trans-identifying students to use the bathrooms and locker rooms of their choosing. The Loudoun County School Board ultimately approved Policy 8040 in August 2021, two months before the sexual assault at Broad Run High School took place.

Then-Superintendent Scott Ziegler denied during the June 2021 meeting that a sexual assault had ever taken place in bathrooms within the school district. A special grand jury report released in 2022 said that this statement from Ziegler was a "bald-faced lie."

"The superintendent later claimed he 'was viewing the question in light of ... policy 8040,'" the report reads. "Per the aforementioned Teams meeting, we know the superintendent learned shortly after the incident that the Stone Bridge assault was stated to be related to policy 8040."

The district fired Ziegler following the release of the special grand jury report, which had accused LCPS administrators of "looking out for their own interests" and lying to parents to quell controversy over the trans bathroom policy.

In May 2021, the school district placed a Christian teacher on leave after he spoke out against the proposed Policy 8040 before it was enacted and said he wouldn't affirm transgender identities of students. The school district later reversed the suspension and paid $20,000 as part of a legal settlement.
Home News Trump's Education Secretary Linda McMahon demands 'common-sense reforms' from Harvard

Secretary of Education Linda McMahon fired off a letter to Harvard University President Alan Garber last week accusing the institution of having "made a mockery" of higher education and advising them not to apply for any future federal grants until they make "common-sense reforms."



"This letter is to inform you that Harvard should no longer seek GRANTS from the federal government, since none will be provided," McMahon wrote in the scathing three-page letter posted Monday to social media.

"Harvard will cease to be a publicly funded institution and can instead operate as a privately-funded institution, drawing on its colossal endowment, and raising money from its large base of wealthy alumni."

Dear @Harvard: pic.twitter.com/XmMimXfkX0 Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe May 5, 2025

McMahon laid out the rationale for the Trump administration freezing federal funds to Harvard, which she said has suffered from "disastrous mismanagement" that has seen the Ivy League school amass millions in debt despite a largely tax-free $53.2 billion endowment and billions in other taxpayer funds annually.

Last month, Harvard sued the Trump administration over its freeze on federal grants to the school as part of what the government says is an effort to eliminate antisemitism and diversity, equity and inclusion policies on college campuses.

"Receiving such taxpayer funds is a privilege, not a right," McMahon wrote. "Yet instead of using these funds to advance the education of its students, Harvard is engaging in a systemic pattern of violating federal law."



McMahon went on to express concern regarding why its campus is seemingly replete with foreign students who engage in violent behavior and exhibit antipathy toward the United States.

"Where do many of these students come from, who are they, how do they get into Harvard, or even into our country  and why is there so much HATE? These are questions that must be answered, among many more, but the biggest question of all is, why will Harvard not give straightforward answers to the American public?"

McMahon cited other specific grievances against Harvard, such as rampant antisemitism on campus; sagging academic standards exemplified by scrapping standardized testing and its "embarrassing" remedial math program; plagiarism scandals among its former leadership; as well as alleged discrimination and "ugly racism" in violation of the U.S. Supreme Court.

McMahon also questioned why Harvard elevates politicians such as former mayors Lori Lightfoot of Chicago and Bill de Blasio of New York City to positions in its School of Public Health, where they are teaching future leaders, which she likened to "hiring the captain of the Titanic to teach navigation to future captains of the sea."

McMahon criticized Harvard Corporation Senior Fellow and former Obama official Penny Pritzker, alleging her leadership contributed to the universitys mismanagement.

McMahon exhorted Harvard to return to merit-based admissions and hiring, end programs that promote "crude identity stereotypes," perform disciplinary reform and accountability for student groups, and cooperate with law enforcement and compliance with federal agencies.

A spokesperson for Harvard said the Trump administration is "doubling down on demands that would impose unprecedented and improper control over Harvard University and would have chilling implications for higher education," according to The New York Times.

"Harvard will continue to comply with the law, promote and encourage respect for viewpoint diversity, and combat antisemitism in our community," the statement added. "Harvard will also continue to defend against illegal government overreach aimed at stifling research and innovation that make Americans safer and more secure."

Originally founded by Puritans in 1636, Harvard is the oldest university in the United States. The school's original seal included the phrase "In Christi Gloriam" ("To the Glory of Christ") or "Veritas Christo et Ecclesiae" ("Truth for Christ and the Church"), both of which were removed during the 19th century.
Home News American Robert Prevost elected first pope from US, will take name Leo XIV

Update: May 8 at 1:30 p.m. ET:

Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected as the first leader of the Roman Catholic Church from the United States and will take the name Pope Leo XIV.

Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti announced Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost as Pope Leo XIV to the crowd gathered in St. Peter's Square in the Vatican on Thursday evening, with some attendees waving American flags. The 69-year-old pontiff offered his first blessing at around 7:30 p.m. local time.

Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe

Born in Chicago, Prevost served as an American missionary in Peru and is a Peruvian citizen. He also led the Vaticans office of bishops. He was not thought to be among the heavy favorites to emerge as pope coming into the papal conclave.

White smoke emanated from a chimney of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican around 6 p.m. local time, indicating that a new pope had been chosen.

This is a developing story.

Original:

Black smoke rose from a Sistine Chapel chimney Thursday morning, indicating that the second ballot of the papal conclave that began on Wednesday has not produced a new pope.

The smoke appeared at around 11:50 a.m. local time at the Vatican in Rome, according to Vatican News, which notes that the cardinals broke for lunch and resumed around 2 p.m. Around 15,000 people were gathered in St. Peters Square for the announcement.

The smoke first emanated from the chimney starting at around 9 p.m. local time on Wednesday night after the first ballot. Around 45,000 people gathered for the first announcement.

"Our role here is to pray and to join with other Christians, other Catholics, to pray for the Holy Spirit to guide the whole process, Deacon Nicholas Nkoronko from Tanzania told the official news portal of the Holy See.

The conclave is assembled to elect a new leader of the Roman Catholic Church following the death of Pope Francis at age 88 last month.

Over 133 cardinals from 70 countries entered the Sistine Chapel to be part of the conclave and swore secrecy about the deliberations.

Once a new pope is elected, white smoke will emanate from the chimney. Conclaves in the past have taken days, months or even years; the longest papal conclave lasted nearly three years from 1268 to 1271 following the death of Pope Clement IV.

The two most recent conclaves took multiple ballots for a pope to receive votes from two-thirds of the cardinals present, which is necessary to secure the position.

"Conclave" is Latin for "a room that can be locked," as the cardinals are "locked away in the Sistine Chapel" until a candidate for the papacy receives the support of two-thirds of the cardinals present.

A few cardinals are thought of as strong contenders to become the next pontiff. They include Cardinal Luis Tagle, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, Cardinal Robert Sarah and Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
Home News Pastor's wife held in solitary confinement after husband re-arrested, sent to notorious Evin Prison

Besides questioning and threatening friends of an Iranian-Armenian pastor re-arrested for practicing his faith, authorities in Iran have detained his wife and put her in solitary confinement, according to an advocacy group.

Lida Alexani, 56-year-old wife of Pastor Joseph Shahbazian, was arrested on April 12 and sent to solitary confinement in Evin Prison in Tehran, according to Article 18. Charges if any were unknown, but her husband was re-arrested on Feb. 6 and sent to Evin Prison after having been pardoned in September 2023 for his participation in a house church, deemed actions against national security.

Prior to his 2023 release, Pastor Shahbazian had spent just over a year at Evin Prison.

Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe

Josephs mother, Jhasmen, for whom he was the primary carer, passed away on April 9, and her funeral was held on April 14, in the absence of both her son and daughter-in-law, Article 18 reports. It had been hoped and expected that Joseph may be released in time for the Iranian New Year, and then after his mothers death, but in spite of a bail amount being set for him of $7,000 (499 million tomans), he remains in Evin Prison.

Pastor Shahbazian has been put in Ward 4 of the prison after spending nearly two months in solitary confinement, Article18 reported. He reportedly faces charges of propaganda against the regime, propaganda activities contrary to the holy religion of Islam through the establishment and operation of a house church, and acquiring wealth through the illegitimate means of tithes and donations.

The pastor denies the accusations and has been denied access to a lawyer of his choice, according to Article 18.

Ministry of Intelligence (MOIS) officials also have recently summoned several of Pastor Shahbazians Christian friends, including some present during his first arrest in 2020, to try to gather new evidence against him, the group reported.

They tried to force us to cooperate with the MOIS by luring us and even threatening us, one of the Christians told Article18 on condition of anonymity. They wanted me to say something untrue against Brother Joseph so they could build a case against him. The interrogator said, If you dont help us, well have to resume our unfinished investigation against you.

Iranian authorities are increasingly targeting Christians finances in an apparent effort to isolate and financially undermine the Christian community as part of a broader strategy to suppress its growth and influence, according to Article18s annual report.

Making financial donations, charitable offerings, or paying tithes to support church activities are standard practices for Christians worldwide, but such activities have been criminalized by Irans Revolutionary Courts, the report stated.

Prison sentences upheld

Also in Tehran, an appeals court on April 23 upheld the harsh prison sentences of three Christian converts, including a pregnant woman.

The 37-year-old mother, Narges Nasri, along with Abbas Soori and Mehran Shamloui had been sentenced in March to a total of more than 40 years in prison on charges related to their Christian belief and practice. The 36th branch of the Tehran appeal court informed them on April 26 that it had rejected their appeals on April 23, citing the scope of their activities and their harmful effects.

The three Christians had been arrested in November in concurrent raids by intelligence agents on their homes in Tehran, where authorities confiscated personal belongings such as Bibles, crosses and musical instruments.

They were then transferred to Ward 209 of Evin Prison, which is under the control of the Ministry of Intelligence. They were released on bail equivalent to more than $20,000 each a month later after lengthy and intensive interrogations, Article 18 reported.

Their court hearing took place on Feb. 15 at Branch 26 of the Revolutionary Court of Tehran, where they were officially charged with membership of opposition groups, propaganda against the system and propaganda activities contrary to Islamic law through foreign relations, under Articles 499, 500 and 500 bis, respectively.

A month later, the pregnant Nasri received the stiffest sentence  10 years for propaganda activities contrary to Islamic law, five for membership of an opposition group (house church) and one year for propaganda against the state for posting on social media in support of the Women, Life, Freedom movement.

Soori, 48, received 15 years in prison  10 years for propaganda activities and five for membership of an opposition group  while Shamloui, 37, received an eight-year sentence for the first charge and two years and eight months for the second, Article 18 stated.

All three were also sentenced to years of deprivation of social rights, such as to health, employment or education  15 years each for Nasri and Soori, and 11 years for Shamloui, while Nasri and Soori were fined 330 million tomans ($3,500 USD) each, and Shamloui 250 million ($2,750 USD). Nasri and Soori were also banned from membership of any group, residing in their home province of Tehran or leaving Iran for two years after their release, according to Article 18.

At least 10 other Christians, including Nasris three sisters, were arrested on the same November day during raids on Christian homes across the country in the cities of Karaj (near Tehran), Mashhad in the northeast, and Shiraz and Bandar Abbas in the south, among others.

Soori had been arrested in 2020 and later sentenced alongside another Christian convert, Maryam Mohammadi, and their pastor, Iranian-Armenian Anooshavan Avedian. Abbas and Mohammadi received non-custodial punishments including travel bans, exile from the province of Tehran and prohibition of membership in any political or social groups, while Pastor Avedian, who is in his 60s, was given a 10-year prison term. He was acquitted in September last year, having served just over one year of his sentence.

Iran ranked ninth on Christian support organization Open Doors 2025 World Watch List (WWL) of the 50 countries where it is most difficult to be a Christian. The report noted that despite persecution, the church in Iran is growing steadily.

This article was originally published at Christian Daily International
Home News School board member, former TV reporter blasts plan to start meetings with prayer: 'How much God do you need?' 'If you want to pray with them, take them to church,' board member tells Christian colleague

An exchange between school board officials in North Carolina has gone viral after one of the members was met with ridicule after requesting to start the meeting with prayer.

At an April 14 Cabarrus County School Board meeting, board member Melanie Freeman introduced a motion to include an invocation to the boards meeting going forward.

Freemans motion was met with indignation from former TV reporter and board member Pam Escobar, who said she is a Christian but questioned the necessity of prayer in a professional setting. "If you put prayer at the beginning of this meeting, I dont think thats a welcoming sign to the people who are in this room tonight," she said.

Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe

How much prayer do you need? How much God do you need? Escobar continued. We say under God, why do we need to say more?

Escobar added that board members are professionals dedicated to serving children, not engaging in religious activities. If you want to pray with them, take them to church, Escobar said.  ... You want to be Evangelical and do that? Go for it. But not on my time, not on their time, and not on this communitys time. Were not in this business. This is not the time or the place."

She then hinted that the board would face legal action if it moved forward with approving a regular invocation. "I don't need to participate in that, and I don't think you need to make the entire school board join you in your prayer. And if you do, then you have to be prepared for people to sue us because they have the right to religious freedom.

She went on to question why Freeman or the board would need prayer to do their job more effectively. That's your argument? That we won't be solemn enough, we won't take this seriously? What have you been doing for the last six months? Why do you need this? she asked.

Freeman responded that the invocation would be open to participants of all religions, pointing to the similar practice of opening meetings at all levels of government with an invocation.

"To answer the comment that we're not in the business of praying [...] so we need to get rid of it in our state houses, in our other municipalities, and in our Senate in the United States, who has it every day that they open for a session?" she asked Escobar. They have a chaplain who opens their meetings, and this has been, as a Christian nation, what we have done for 250 years. So, to be offended [...] seems a little bit out there for me because the prayers of the people have always been for people, not against people."

Escobar replied that the prayer would not be "unifying" for the board nor the community.

After hearing comments from the board, chair Rob Walter called for a vote, and the motion to open the boards meetings with prayer passed 5-2, despite Escobar vocally dissenting by shouting no during the vote.

CP reached out to both Walter and Escobar for comment on Tuesday. This article will be updated if a response is received.

Located about 20 miles northeast of Charlotte, Cabarrus County oversees a district with roughly 33,000 students and has faced other recent controversies, including a $11 million budget deficit and criticism over board appointments.
Home News UMC bishops say ruling letting pastors perform gay weddings does not overrule local bans

The United Methodist Church leadership has clarified that a recent ruling from its top court allowing pastors to determine if they can officiate same-sex weddings dispute objections from church trustees does not overrule regional bans on the unions.

The United Methodist Judicial Council ruled last month that church trustees could not prohibit a pastor from performing a same-sex wedding ceremony.

In a statement last Friday, the UMC Council of Bishops stated that the "decision has created some anxiety and consternation," but stressed UMC regions that continue to ban same-sex marriage can still prohibit such ceremonies.

Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe

Specifically, the bishops referenced the UMC central conferences, which are regional bodies of the worldwide denomination outside the United States.

"As bishops, we expect that the pastors we appoint will continue to exercise their authority with deep pastoral sensitivity to the congregation and community to which they are appointed," stated UMC Council of Bishops President Tracy Malone.

"We also affirm that the Judicial Council decision does not negate the powers and duties that apply only in the central conferences. We recognize the varying legal contexts in different parts of the world where The United Methodist Church is in ministry."

The decision "does not authorize United Methodist clergy to violate civil law in their practice of ministry," Malone noted, as same-sex marriage is illegal in several countries. She assured that the ruling "does not negate the authority given" to central conferences.

"If a central conference has set standards and policy that do not permit same-sex marriages, no pastor in the central conference is permitted to perform a same-sex marriage," Malone continued.

"If the central conference has delegated the authority to set standards and policy for marriage to the annual conferences within its boundaries, and an annual conference has set standards and policy that does not permit same-sex marriages, no pastor in the annual conference is permitted to perform a same-sex marriage."

Judicial Council's Decision Number 1516 came in response to a request for a declaratory decision from the Arkansas Annual Conference. Although UMC law "gives authority to a local church board of trustees for the supervision, oversight, and care of all real property owned by the local church," the council ruled that "authority over the use of the building has limits."

"Pastors have the authority to decide whether they will perform the religious marriage service of a couple, and they cannot be prevented from or interfered with when using any of the property of the local church for such a service," read Decision 1516.

"Similarly, the pastor cannot be required to use church facilities to perform a religious marriage service. If a pastor does not wish to perform a certain marriage ceremony (in the discretion of the pastor), the local trustees cannot require them to do so."

At the UMC General Conference last year, delegates voted overwhelmingly to remove from the Book of Discipline a longstanding prohibition on clergy blessing same-sex unions.

The change came after more than 7,500 congregations disaffiliated from the UMC over the issue, as many objected to some progressive church leaders not enforcing the rules.

Most churches that left the UMC have affiliated with the theologically conservative Global Methodist Church, while others have become nondenominational congregations.

The General Conference decision nevertheless allows clergy and regional bodies to continue prohibiting same-sex weddings, with many congregations retaining the previous rules.

For example, Highland Park United Methodist Church of Dallas, Texas, a congregation that former President George W. Bush is known to attend, announced shortly after the General Conference vote that it would not allow same-sex weddings on their property.
Home News Vineyard Church pastor defends 'prophet' who claims to travel to Hell with God every Easter

Luke Haselmayer, senior pastor of the Vineyard Church Northwest in Cincinnati, Ohio, defended his prophetic ministry pastor, Micah Turnbo, on Monday after he was recently dismissed as a false prophet by Mike Winger of the BibleThinker online ministry.

He's a false prophet, [...] there's no way around it, Winger declared in a May 3 episode of his podcast. I don't know of a way around this. He's just so nice that it makes you feel mean to say it, but you're actually mean if you don't.

In his hour-long commentary on Turnbo, Winger said he was surprised that a Vineyard church would entertain someone like him in ministry, and said he spoke with Haselmayer who allegedly told him the church would look into his concerns.

Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe

In one clip highlighting some claims made by Turnbo, the prophetic ministry pastor states that he frequently time travels with God and visits Hell every Easter with God against his will.

Every Easter, the Lord will take me to Hell. Not my choice. He wants to do it and I don't like it. The Lord allowed me to sit in front of demons and ask them questions, Turnbo claimed.

The prophetic ministry pastor also professed his love for Gods beard while stating that Jesus has a sweet tooth, while God the Father loves spicy and salty food.

I'm with God. You know, the Father, on his lap and my hands are, I love his beard. I love his beard. I put my hands in his beard. [...] God goes for walks. He walks around, you know. He has like favorite things. Like God loves spicy and salty food. Jesus has the sweet tooth, Turnbo claimed.

You can touch God the Father. I know what He feels like. I know what His hands feel like. He has hands. He has feet. He took me back in time to where I watched him form Adam out of the dirt, and then He took the rib, and He formed [a] woman. I've talked to Abraham Lincoln before.

In his critique of Turnbo, Winger stated, I just was not expecting that.

We have to judge things. We have to test things. We do have to consider these things. And the charismatic church, in particular, needs to reenact the gift of discernment or we're going to be in a lot of trouble, he warned.

In a post on Facebook Monday, Haselmayer described his conversation with Winger as pleasant and highlighted both points of agreement and disagreement.

Where Mike and I agreed  and where Micah and I also agree  is that he couldve been more theologically careful in some recent podcasts. Mike also flagged a few instances where Micahs descriptions seemed to contradict Scripture. Micah readily admits that he does not always have full understanding of some of the things he experiences and may even, at times, partially misinterpret them, take them too far. And at times, like any human being, misremember some details, Haselmayer said.

However, Mike and I disagreed on much more. He told me I was too charitable in how I receive Micahs revelations  something that stems from my personal relationship with Micah and firsthand knowledge of his theology of Scripture. In fact, just days before Mikes video, Micah publicly reaffirmed that he always subordinates his prophetic experiences to Scripture. Id encourage anyone who wants to genuinely understand Micahs views on this to check that video out. I had hoped my perspective might affect Mikes judgment, but it didnt, he said before insisting that his prophet is no liar.

Micah Turnbo is not a liar. Micah Turnbo is not delusional. God has supernaturally confirmed this man to me more times than I can count. Many of you have heard of the extraordinary dream I had in 2014 where God indisputably did so, Haselmayer insisted.

Ive been close friends with Micah for 11 years. Ive seen his character in private and in public. Ive seen him minister from stages and in living rooms. He has been consistent, trustworthy, full of good fruit, and always wholly committed to pointing people toward friendship with Jesus.
Home News Euthanasia law expansion to include dementia patients being considered in Belgium

Belgian lawmakers are weighing a controversial amendment to the countrys 20-year-old euthanasia law that would allow patients diagnosed with dementia to be euthanized, provided they signed a Declaration of Intent while still mentally competent.

The proposed changes would mark a significant expansion of Belgiums euthanasia legislation, originally passed on May 28, 2002, making it the second country in the world to legalize the practice. Since its introduction, 37,606 people have died through euthanasia in Belgium, 72.6% of them over age 70 and 43.2% aged 80 or older, according to official data through 2023.

Supporters of the amendment argue it would allow patients to exercise autonomy even if they lose the ability to communicate their wishes. The Institute for Medical Anthropology and Bioethics (IMABE), an Austrian think tank established by the Austrian Bishops Conference, reported on March 26 that the proposed law would extend euthanasia to those who are no longer capable of expressing consent.

Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe

The bill was introduced in Belgiums Federal Parliament on Sept. 4, 2024. Two members of the Open Flemish Liberals and Democrats  Irina de Knop, mayor of Lennik, and Katja Gabriels  have been leading voices in favor of the amendment.

On social media and in statements on her website, de Knop has defended the proposal and pushed back against criticism from religious institutions.

It is the patient who determines what unbearable suffering means for him or her, she wrote on Instagram. There is no government, church or institution that should decide that in our place.

In a Feb. 28 update on her website, de Knop described the current law as too restrictive for patients who have lost the ability to make decisions due to degenerative illnesses.

Patients can only request euthanasia via a living will if they are in an irreversible coma, she said. This excludes many people who suffer from conditions in which they can no longer express their will, but who still experience unbearable suffering.

She said this legal gap often pushes patients with early-stage dementia to request euthanasia prematurely, fearing the loss of capacity to consent.

This law actually forces them to die prematurely. We need to change that, de Knop said.

However, critics of the proposed amendment have raised ethical and medical concerns.

Belgian neurologist Eric Salmon of the University of Liege, quoted in the IMABE report, testified that dementia patients are still capable of positive moments and [can] feel love, suggesting their suffering is not always as severe as some assume.

IMABE also cited concerns from MP Frieda Gijbels, who suggested that fear of future suffering  rather than suffering itself  is driving euthanasia requests in such cases.

What is particularly shocking for many is how people with dementia are degraded  as individuals who merely live in a vegetative state, said the IMABE report. The bill reflects negative narratives: dementia thus becomes the bogeyman of a society that previously defined autonomy and cognitive performance as the essence of human existence.

Proponents argue the law change would give people with progressive and irreversible conditions the ability to define their own limits of suffering in consultation with a doctor before losing capacity.

This means that they can record in advance, in consultation with their doctor, what constitutes unbearable suffering for them and in what situation they want euthanasia, de Knop said. It is about respecting personal choices, even when someone can no longer express his or her wishes.

She added that the declaration of intent could be updated or revoked as long as the patient remains competent. The amendment would also preserve the conscience clause for physicians, allowing them to opt out if the request conflicts with their beliefs.

However, the IMABE report noted a potential inconsistency: while the law recommends a medical consultation when drafting the declaration, it does not require it. According to the parliamentary record, the drafters chose not to make these conditions mandatory, so as to leave everyone free to draw up a declaration, even without the help of a (general) physician.

The doctor who dates and signs an advance in matters of euthanasia merely confirms the applicants capacity, the drafters noted.

Viennese bioethicist Susanne Kummer, director of IMABE, warned that Belgiums normalization of euthanasia over the past two decades has affected societal attitudes toward aging and care.

Depriving seniors of medically adequate care for cost reasons in order to save money, combined with the offer that they could still use active euthanasia, represents a dangerous mix for a society, Kummer said. The argument of self-determination thus quietly tips over into external determination.

As soon as euthanasia becomes a normal option, the pressure for a socially acceptable early death grows, she added.

In the United Kingdom, where a bill on assisted dying is currently progressing through Parliament, similar concerns have been raised. The Christian Medical Fellowship (CMF) released a leaflet titled Protecting Patients from Assisted Suicide, warning that such measures could erode trust between patients and caregivers.

Under the existing law, patients who are old, frail, impaired or otherwise highly vulnerable can feel completely confident that their doctors are only acting out of a desire to support and heal them, the CMF stated.

In those times when they are feeling low and suggest they do not want to carry on  common but normally passing in those who are seriously ill  patients know that medical staff will support them through that difficult time rather than validating their despair, the group continued.

The fact that a doctor or nurse could initiate a conversation, or even instigate a hastened death  when a patient is ill, at their most vulnerable and seeking care  will fundamentally undermine that trust. Doctors must not be agents of a national suicide service.

This article was originally published by Christian Daily International.
Home News Colorado Senate kills bill allowing churches to build housing on their properties despite zoning laws

Colorado lawmakers have killed legislation that would have allowed houses of worship to build housing on their property, even if local zoning laws prohibited such construction.

Known as House Bill 1169, the measure passed the Democrat-controlled Colorado House of Representatives in March only to be effectively killed on Monday when leadership in the Democrat-run state Senate determined it lacked the votes to proceed.

Shelby Wieman, a spokesperson for Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, a Democrat, said in a statement quoted by The Colorado Sun that the administration was disappointed by the vote result.

Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe

This common-sense policy is backed by non-profits, congregations, schools, housing, and conservation organizations, said Wieman. Coloradans are demanding action to cut housing costs, and we remain committed to continuing this important work.

HB 1169 sought to streamline the building process for qualifying properties, including properties owned by faith-based organizations by creating a process that allows residential developments to be constructed on qualifying properties as long as certain requirements are satisfied.

Properties that qualified for the streamlined housing development process included real property that contains no more than five acres of land and that has been owned by a faith-based organization, a school district  or a state college or university  for that at least five years.

In Denver, Jefferson, Arapahoe, and Douglas counties alone, faith-based organizations own more than five thousand acres of undeveloped land, the bill added. In many cases, faith-based organizations are mowing or maintaining these lots at significant cost with no real benefit to the community.

Colorado urgently needs more housing to meet the needs of a growing statewide population and address issues directly related to housing, such as transit, commuting, the workforce, and the environment.

The proposed legislation had the support of the Yes in Gods Backyard movement, a national grassroots organization that lobbies for allowing affordable housing on church properties.

Critics of the legislation included the Colorado Municipal League, which released a statement in February arguing that HB 1169 infringes on constitutional rule authority to regulate zoning, a matter of local concern.

YIGBY creates a special privileged class of property owners with insufficient guardrails that would promote the creation of affordable housing, protect against fraud or abuse, and ensure a minimum of consistency with community plans, stated the CML.

Without affordability standards, nothing in this prevents these institutions from focusing on luxury developments that do not help solve our housing crisis. Further, other entities could take advantage of YIGBY by forming a faith-based organization for only a few years before bypassing zoning ordinances.
Home News DOJ launches probe into Washington law forcing Catholic priests to violate confessional seal

The U.S. Department of Justice has launched an investigation into the state of Washington's new law that could require priests to violate the Catholic Church's prohibition on sharing information received during confessions, which a Catholic bishop accused of overstepping the boundaries of church and state.

On Wednesday, the Trump administration opened a civil rights investigation into "the development and passage of Washington State Senate Bill 5375." The measure was signed into law by Washington's Democratic Gov. Bob Ferguson last Friday.

The Justice Department characterized the legislation as an apparent violation of the free exercise clause of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe

"SB 5375 demands that Catholic Priests violate their deeply held faith in order to obey the law, a violation of the Constitution and a breach of the free exercise of religion cannot stand under our Constitutional system of government," said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division, who is an adherent of the Sikh faith.

"Worse, the law appears to single out clergy as not entitled to assert applicable privileges, as compared to other reporting professionals. We take this matter very seriously and look forward to Washington State's cooperation with our investigation."

Senate Bill 5375 adds members of the clergy to a list of professionals who are required to report instances of child abuse or neglect to law enforcement. The legislation clarifies that "Except for members of the clergy, no one shall be required to report under this section when he or she obtains the information solely as a result of a privileged communication as provided in" Washington State law.

Currently, the relevant portion of the law declares: "A member of the clergy, a Christian Science practitioner listed in the Christian Science Journal, or a priest shall not, without the consent of a person making the confession or sacred confidence, be examined as to any confession or sacred confidence made to him or her in his or her professional character, in the course of discipline enjoined by the church to which he or she belongs."

This provision will be removed when Senate Bill 5375 takes effect in late July. The protections for other "privileged communications" under Washington law, including communications between an attorney and client as well as a physician and patient, are expected to remain in effect.

The Democrat-controlled Washington Senate passed the bill in a 28-20 vote, and the Democrat-controlled Washington House of Representatives voted 64-31 to advance the legislation. Votes in favor of the measure fell largely along party lines, with most support coming from Democrats and most opposition coming from Republicans. Two Senate Democrats broke with their party to oppose the bill, while five House Republicans joined Democrats in supporting it.

The Roman Catholic Church prohibits priests from sharing information they received during the Sacrament of Reconciliation, where Catholics confess their sins. The Catholic Church's Code of Canon Law states that the "sacramental seal is inviolable; therefore, it is absolutely forbidden for a confessor to betray in any way a penitent in words or in any manner and for any reason."

The Code of Canon Law authorizes the excommunication of any priest who "directly violates the sacramental seal." In cases where the sacramental seal is violated "indirectly," priests are subject to a punishment "according to the gravity of the offence."

Archbishop Paul Etienne of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Seattle, which includes most of Washington's population, said in a statement that "priests cannot comply with this law if the knowledge of abuse is obtained during the Sacrament of Reconciliation." He assured Catholics that "their confessions remain sacred, secure, confidential and protected by the law of the Church."

Etienne stressed that "the Catholic Church agrees with the goal of protecting children and preventing child abuse" and highlighted that the archdiocese "remains committed to reporting child sexual abuse, working with victim survivors towards healing and protecting all minors and vulnerable people."

"While we remain committed to protecting minors and all vulnerable people from abuse, priests cannot comply with this law if the knowledge of abuse is obtained during the Sacrament of Reconciliation," Etienne continued.

"The line between Church and state has been crossed and needs to be walked back. People of every religion in the State of Washington and beyond should be alarmed by this overreach of our Legislature and Governor."

The bishop stressed that the new law forces priests to "violate their deeply held faith," which he called a violation of the U.S. Constitution and a "breach of the free exercise of religion cannot stand under our Constitutional system of government.

In a statement shared with the media, Gov. Ferguson, who is Catholic, stated that his administration looks forward to "protecting Washington kids from sexual abuse in the face of this 'investigation' from the Trump Administration."

Among groups that pushed for the law is the lobbying arm of the Wisconsin-based progressive secular legal organization Freedom From Religion Foundation, which claims the law "closes a longstanding and dangerous loophole that allowed clergy to withhold information about child abuse disclosed in confessional or pastoral settings."

"The government has a compelling interest in protecting children from abuse," FFRF Legal Director Patrick Elliott said in a statement. "This law does not target Christianity or Catholicism  it applies equally to all clergy. Religious freedom does not include the right to conceal abuse. The DOJ's position undermines both child safety and the Constitution it purports to defend."

Members of the clergy are considered mandatory child abuse reporters in 28 states, with all but a handful including limited exceptions for those who are bound to confidentiality, according to the website Mandated Reporter Training.
Home News DOJ calls for dismissal of challenge to abortion pill dispensing requirements

The United States Department of Justice is calling for the dismissal of a case challenging the Food and Drug Administrations changes to dispensing requirements for the abortion pill on procedural grounds nearly a year after the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously dismissed a similar lawsuit on procedural grounds.

In a reply memorandum in support of a motion to dismiss filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas Amarillo Division on Monday, the DOJ maintained that Missouri, Idaho and Kansas do not have standing to bring a lawsuit challenging the changes to the dispensing requirements for the abortion pill in the federal court because their claims have no connection to the Northern District of Texas.

If the States were to file their own suit in this District, that suit could not proceed due to improper venue, the memorandum declared. To justify continued litigation here, the States instead rely on the original plaintiffs lawsuit seeking to challenge FDAs actions. But the Supreme Court unanimously concluded that those plaintiffs lacked standing, and they have now voluntarily dismissed all of their claims.

Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe

The memorandum added that the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 9-0 in FDA v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine that it and the American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians & Gynecologists, the Christian Medical & Dental Associations and four individual doctors did not have standing to sue the FDA over its relaxing of requirements for dispensing the abortion pill.

Missouri, Idaho and Kansas filed a motion to intervene in the original lawsuit in November 2023, seven months before the unanimous Supreme Court decision.

In addition to maintaining that the states did not have standing to intervene, the memo contended that the challenges to the 2016 changes to the requirements for dispensing the abortion pill are past the six-year statute of limitations. The DOJ stressed that the states are free to pursue their claims in a District where [the] venue is proper, suggesting that the Trump administrations motion to dismiss was not a rejection of the efforts to challenge the abortion pill but was simply procedural.

The litigation against the abortion pill challenged changes made during the Obama administration, enabling medical professionals other than doctors to dispense the abortion pill and changes made during the Biden administration removing the requirement that those seeking the abortion pill first see a doctor in person.

Efforts to challenge the dispensing requirements for the abortion pill stem from concerns about the drug's safety and harms to women's health. Just last week, the Ethics and Public Policy Center released a report finding that over 10% of women who took the abortion pill between 2017 and 2023 experienced adverse effects.

While 5.68% of women who took the abortion pill experienced adverse events characterized as other abortion-specific complications, significant shares of women faced emergency room visits (4.73%), hemorrhages (3.31%), surgical abortions (2.84%) and infection (1.34%) after taking it. The report highlighted how the use of the abortion pill has skyrocketed since its approval by the FDA in 2000 to a point where two-thirds of abortions nationwide involve the use of the abortion drug.
Home News Pastor John Gray apologizes for failures, reveals healing in marriage with wife Aventer

Editor's note: This article contains sexually graphic descriptions some readers may find disturbing.

Megachurch Pastor John Gray has publicly apologized to his wife, Aventer, and thousands of followers for inappropriate relationships that almost ended his marriage and ministry, detailing his past sexual repression and childhood sexual abuse manipulated by demonic forces.

The couple says their marriage is in a better place thanks to God and therapy. And they are sharing their story as a testimony to help other couples who may be struggling.

Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe

"I want to say to Aventer, I want to thank you for showing me what the love of Christ looks like because you loved a very unlovable man. And I want to tell you how very sorry I am for the pain I caused," said Gray during a recent episode of Laterras R. Whitfield's podcast "Dear Future Wifey," recorded at Gray's Love Story Church (formerly Relentless Church) in Greenville, South Carolina.

"I've never said this, but to the people who knew that God called me but saw the headlines of a failure and a failing and a brokenness that you didn't know the origin of, for the people who were deeply disappointed, I want to say I'm sorry," Gray added.

The nearly three-hour long episode of the podcast, which explores love, healing and faith, also featured husband and wife duo, actors KJ Smith and Skyh Black; rapper and record producer David Banner; evangelist Tiara Walton; venture capitalist Arian Simone; and Rick Applewhite, who shared insights on emotional resilience and mental health in relationships.

All the panelists shared powerful insights about the role of faith in their relationships. But it was Gray, who has been accused of having phone sex and sexting with multiple women over several years during his marriage to Aventer, whose narrative took center stage.

As he fended off some of the allegations in 2018, for example, Bishop T.D. Jakes, the founder of The Potter's House in Dallas, Texas, publicly rebuked a spirit of suicide from him.

Months before that, he also admitted that voices, which his wife described as a "strange woman," had lured him away from Aventer Gray, and they were on the brink of getting a divorce. Aventer Gray said she used Scripture on the strange woman.

She said during the podcast that she had asked God for permission to divorce her husband, but the Lord refused and she accepted God's will.

"I decided to take inventory of myself and  asked God exactly what this was. And I asked Him for permission to leave. And He told me not to leave because He was going to do something that would save other marriages through what He's doing here," Aventer Gray said. "And I decided to take up the mantle and walk with it boldly. And I don't care who cares or agrees or disagrees."

In his heartfelt comments during the podcast, John Gray said his dysfunctional approach to marriage stemmed from sexual repression and childhood sexual abuse by two men.

"I was thrown away. I was spit on. I was maligned for the brokenness that was given to me on a grassy front yard at 4 years old when two men took my innocence. And that demon that entered me when they took my innocence sat dormant for years, waiting for me to get married to show up so I could fail," he said. "And I've been in church my whole life. And everybody told me Jesus would fix it. Jesus would fix it. But there are some things the altar can't do."

Gray said he was raised as an only child by a Christian mother who couldn't teach him about manhood. He recalled the trauma of having his first wet dream as a teenager and the advice his mother gave him.

"I had a wet dream, and I ran into my mother's room crying because I didn't know what had happened. And she said, 'This is called a nocturnal emission.' She said, 'Go take a bath. Ask the Lord to forgive you and go back to sleep.'"

He said everything he learned about manhood he learned from a woman because all the men in his family had been failures before him, including his father.

"I'm not angry at my mother. She is only who she is because that's what she was raised and taught. But what that tells me is that I didn't do a bad thing. I am bad. So now I'm sexually repressed. That's a teenager. We still haven't unpacked the fact that I was spitting urine out of my mouth at 4 years old on a front lawn," Gray said.

"And so a demon was introduced in [that] moment. And I don't care what you believe; demons are assigned to families because some of you all have generations of people who have failed at the same thing, and then it comes to knock on your door. And I don't know what your door is or what your demon is, but before you go sending me to Hell, you should probably check for the demons that's knocking on your door."

Gray, now 50, declared he was a virgin until he got married at 37, but engaged in "near sexual experiences," including phone sex and masturbation, before then.

He explained that while some people might believe he wanted to hide his sins as they were being reported, he said he wanted it to become public with a distorted expectation that it would end his ministry.

"I was not blindsided by people going to blogs. I wanted it to happen because I was trying to die, and I was trying to be exed out, and I wanted her [Aventer] to leave because I never felt worthy of her," Gray said, sharing that he constantly envisioned himself alone in a two-bedroom apartment with a brown table stacked with unpaid bills.

"Yep. No wife, no kids. And that's how I thought my life would be for years. So the fact that she was there, she's accomplished, she's learned, and she loves the part of me that I hate; I didn't trust her because how can you love me and I don't love me."

Gray also shared that though he now accepts his failures, he struggles with the lack of grace he experienced from the Church community. He said many Christians celebrate David of the Bible even though he was a "terrible husband and a terrible father." He added that many of the popular preachers today have sinned much worse than he has but have silenced people with non-disclosure agreements.

"The truth is, if I ever start talking about what I know about your favorites, you won't have any place to go. The reason why you know about whatever I walk through is because I ain't paying nobody to be quiet for nothing. If I did it, you can tell the whole world. But some of your favorites make theirs sign NDAs. And I'm going to leave it right there. For them, it's a business,'" Gray said.

Gray was also very upset about this comparison until he asked God about it, he said.

"I don't mind getting hit from the front by demons. What I was not prepared for was the friendly fire from church folk. That's why I fight for everybody. I have grace for everybody. I walk in backwards on people's nakedness. That's why you'll never hear me talk about the things that I know. If God wants to expose them, He can," Gray said.

"But this is what I learned. And maybe this is all I have to say. I was angry at God. I said, 'God, there's some dudes out here with whole families.' And you all love them. Whole families. Why didn't you expose them? God said, 'When you go to the grocery store and see a kid that's bad, do you whoop him?' I said 'No.' He said, 'Why?' I said, Cuz they not mine.' He said, 'Exactly.'

"God only corrects sons. If you're not a son, He let you do what you want. But when you belong to Him, He will correct you. He will adjust you. He will whoop you because He's not going to let you die not looking like Him. And until you get it right, He will whoop you until you look and conform to the image of the son," Gray argued, noting that there are many preachers engaged in spiritual fraud.

"It's a lot of preachers, but they not anointed, and they were never called, and they were never chosen. They're just really articulate orators, but they are not called by God, and they don't belong to God. That's why the Scripture says they going to get up to Heaven, and He's going to say, 'Depart from me because I never even knew you.' It's called credit card fraud," he said.

"There are preachers who swipe His name but didn't get permission from the owner of the card. And even though the transaction went through and church was nice and folk got saved, the preacher never knew God. So you can swipe the card, and God still saves them while a preacher goes to Hell."
Home News Supreme Court lets Trump admin. enforce ban on trans-identified military troops

The U.S. Supreme Court has allowed the Trump administration to enforce a ban on openly trans-identified individuals serving in the U.S. military.

In a miscellaneous order issued Tuesday in the case of United States, et al v. Shilling, Commander, et al, the nation's high court granted a stay request from the administration, lifting a lower court injunction on the ban.

"The March 27, 2025, preliminary injunction entered by the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington, case No. 2:25-cv241, is stayed pending the disposition of the appeal in the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit and disposition of a petition for a writ of certiorari, if such a writ is timely sought," stated the brief order.

Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe

"Should certiorari be denied, this stay shall terminate automatically. In the event certiorari is granted, the stay shall terminate upon the sending down of the judgment of this Court."

According to the order, the court's three left-leaning Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson would have denied the application for a stay.

Lambda Legal and the Human Rights Campaign, two prominent LGBT advocacy groups pursuing litigation against the ban, released a joint statement on Tuesday denouncing the order.

"By allowing this discriminatory ban to take effect while our challenge continues, the Court has temporarily sanctioned a policy that has nothing to do with military readiness and everything to do with prejudice," they stated.

"Transgender individuals meet the same standards and demonstrate the same values as all who serve. We remain steadfast in our belief that this ban violates constitutional guarantees of equal protection and will ultimately be struck down."

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt took to her X account on Tuesday to call the order "Another MASSIVE victory in the Supreme Court."

"President Trump and Secretary [of Defense Pete Hegseth] are restoring a military that is focused on readiness and lethality  not DEI or woke gender ideology," tweeted Leavitt.

Shortly after being sworn in as president, Donald Trump signed an executive order titled "Prioritizing Military Excellence and Readiness," which claimed that identifying as the opposite sex "conflicts with a soldier's commitment to an honorable, truthful, and disciplined lifestyle, even in one's personal life."

In keeping with the Trump executive order, Hegseth issued a written policy in February stating that the U.S. Defense Department only recognizes two sexes  male and female  and that it will not fund service members' sex-change surgeries or cross-sex hormone therapy.

"Military service by Service members and applicants for military service who have a current diagnosis or history of, or exhibit symptoms consistent with, gender dysphoria is incompatible with military service," stated the policy.

"Service by these individuals is not in the best interests of the Military Services and is not clearly consistent with the interests of national security."

Litigation ensued, with U.S. District Judge Benjamin Settle, a George W. Bush appointee, issuing a preliminary injunction against the military service ban in March.

Soon after, a three-judge panel on the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals denied the request of the Trump administration to lift the injunction while the litigation at the district court level continued.
Home Opinion Arresting lawless judges isnt fascism, its Christian

For years, Democrats have wielded the phrase no one is above the law like a cudgel, particularly when it suited their political vendettas against Donald Trump and other political opponents.

Of course, they never really meant it. All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others (George Orwell). Joe Biden, Hunter Biden, Hillary Clinton, Anthony Fauci, and other allies are above the law  as are illegal aliens (amazingly).

But never let hypocrisy get in the way of a good talking point, right?

Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe

During his first term, they chanted it as they pushed the Russia collusion hoax, impeachment circuses, and endless investigations built on evidence so weak that if I had to choose between standing on a wet paper towel suspended over the Grand Canyon or their evidence, I would choose the paper towel.

When Trump was out of office, their zeal only intensified. New York Attorney General Letitia James campaigned on a promise to get Trump, weaponizing her office to pursue civil fraud cases built on shaky grounds. Special Counsel Jack Smith, appointed by the Biden Department of Justice, went after Trump with indictments over classified documents and January 6 cases that many legal scholars argued were more about politics than justice.

The lefts mantra was clear: Trump, his supporters, and anyone who dared challenge their narrative must be held accountable, no matter how flimsy the charges or how selective the enforcement.

Now, with the arrest of Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan by the FBI on April 25, the tables have turned. The same principle that Democrats championed applies, and its being enforced against one of their own.

No one is above the law  not even a judge.

The Facts: Dugan aided an illegal alien in evading arrest

The FBI arrested Judge Dugan on felony charges of obstruction of justice and concealing an individual to prevent arrest, stemming from her actions on April 18, at the Milwaukee County Courthouse.

According to a criminal complaint unsealed by the U.S. Justice Department, Dugan deliberately interfered with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents attempting to arrest Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, a Mexican national illegally in the United States.

Flores-Ruiz, previously deported in 2013, faced misdemeanor battery charges in a domestic abuse case and was scheduled to appear in Dugans courtroom. ICE agents, armed with an administrative warrant, waited in the courthouse hallway to detain him after his hearing.

What followed was a brazen act of defiance against federal law.

Court documents reveal that Dugan, upon learning of the ICE agents presence, became visibly angry and called the situation absurd. She confronted the agents, demanding they produce a judicial warrant  a requirement she knew was unnecessary for ICEs administrative action. When the agents explained their authority, Dugan misdirected them to the chief judges office, a deliberate attempt to distract them.

While the agents complied, she then escorted Flores-Ruiz and his attorney through a restricted jury door, bypassing the public exit where ICE waited.

This wasnt a mistake; it was a calculated effort to help an illegal alien evade arrest. The affidavit notes that only deputies, juries, court staff, and in-custody defendants typically use this exit, making Dugans actions highly unusual and intentional.

Flores-Ruizs temporary escape  lasting about 22 minutes before agents chased him down on foot  put both the community and law enforcement at risk. FBI Director Kash Patel stated, The Judges obstruction created increased danger to the public.

Dugans charges are rooted in federal law: 18 U.S.C.  1505 forbids anyone from corruptly, or by threats of force or by any threatening communication, influencing, obstructing, or impeding any pending proceeding before a department or agency of the United States and carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison. Additionally, 18 U.S.C.  1071 prohibits concealing a person from arrest, which adds up to another year in jail.

The DOJs complaint is clear: Dugan didnt just fail to cooperate; she actively thwarted federal immigration enforcement, violating her oath to uphold the law.

Attorney General Pam Bondi underscored this during an interview on Fox News, stating,

No ones above the laws in this country  and if you are destroying evidence, if youre obstructing justice, when you have victims sitting in a courtroom of domestic violence and youre escorting a criminal defendant out a back door, it will not be tolerated, and it is a crime in the United States of America. Doesnt matter who you are, youre going to be prosecuted.

Since her arrest, the Wisconsin Supreme Court has also suspended her. This is noteworthy since the Wisconsin Supreme Court is controlled by a liberal majority. According to the AP, In its two-page order, the court said it was acting to protect public confidence in Wisconsin courts during the criminal proceedings against Dugan.

This is not overreach, this is justice.

A powerful message: The rule of law is back

The arrest of a sitting judge for lawless actions sends a powerful message: Judges are not above the law. For too long, some black-robed jurists have acted as untouchable oligarchs, issuing rulings that defy precedent, logic, or the will of the people while cloaking their activism in judicial immunity.

The Founders envisioned a government of checks and balances, where no branch  executive, legislative, or judicial  could wield unchecked power. James Madison warned in The Federalist No. 47 that the accumulation of power in any one branch may justly be pronounced the very definition of tyranny.

When judges like Dugan place themselves above federal law, they undermine the separation of powers and erode the republics foundation.

If judges can flout immigration laws with impunity, what stops them from nullifying other statutes or constitutional protections?

This isnt hypothetical. In 2019, Boston Judge Shelley Joseph faced similar obstruction charges for helping a twice-deported illegal immigrant evade ICE. Though the federal charges were dropped in 2022, it was only after Judge Joseph agreed to submit to the Massachusetts Commission on Judicial Conduct; in June, she will be subject to a public hearing as part of the process.

In a scathing 111-page report, the Commission charges that Judge Joseph has engaged in willful judicial misconduct that brought the judicial office into disrepute, as well as conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice and unbecoming a judicial officer.

Like Joseph, so with Dugan: Her arrest is a necessary corrective, a reminder that the judiciary serves the law  not the other way around.

Arresting lawless judges isnt 'Fascism, its Christian

The Bible reinforces the principle of equal justice under the law, a cornerstone of both Christian and American values.

Leviticus 19:15 commands, You shall do no injustice in court. You shall not be partial to the poor or defer to the great, but in righteousness shall you judge your neighbor. This verse rejects favoritism, whether for the powerful or the marginalized, demanding impartiality.

Similarly, Deuteronomy 16:19 warns, You shall not pervert justice. You shall not show partiality, and you shall not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and subverts the cause of the righteous. Dugans actions  shielding an illegal alien while obstructing federal agents  perverted justice by favoring ideology over duty.

Proverbs 28:5 adds, Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the Lord understand it completely. True justice, as Scripture teaches, applies the law consistently, regardless of status, wealth, or office.

When a judge like Dugan acts as if her robe grants her immunity, she defies not only human law but divine principle. The Trump administrations willingness to hold her accountable aligns with this biblical call for righteousness in governance.

Democrats are outraged. Spare us, please

Democrats and their allies are predictably outraged, calling Dugans arrest an assault on judicial independence. Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers accused the Trump administration of undermining our judiciary at every level. U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore, D-Wisc., labeled it shocking and overreach. But their protests ring hollow.

Where was their concern for judicial integrity when they cheered the politicized prosecutions of Trump? Where was their outrage when Bidens DOJ targeted political opponents? The lefts selective indignation exposes their hypocrisy: No one is above the law apparently applies only to those they dislike.

Dugans arrest isnt about punishing dissent; its about enforcing accountability. If judges can obstruct federal law without consequence, then the rule of law is a sham, and the American people are subject to the whims of unelected elites.

The broader context of Dugans actions cannot be ignored. The Trump administration has prioritized immigration enforcement, responding to a crisis that saw over 2.5 million apprehensions of migrants at the southern border in 2023 alone, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Illegal immigration strains communities, burdens taxpayers, and, in cases like Flores-Ruizs, can intersect with criminality.

Judges who aid and abet illegal aliens undermine national sovereignty and public safety. And Joseph and Dugans cases arent isolated; just one day prior, to Dugans arrest, federal authorities arrested a former New Mexico judge and his wife for allegedly harboring an illegal immigrant linked to the Tren de Aragua gang. In response to these charges, Cano has been permanently banned from the bench by his colleagues, according to state Supreme Court documents.

If youre keeping count, thats three lawless judges who are being held accountable for breaking the law, subverting Americas national sovereignty, and making a mockery of our judicial system and the very Constitution they are sworn to uphold.

Trump is clearly not just trying to take revenge on judges who disagree with his policies; he is trying to defend the Constitution and the American people. Because at the end of the day, these are not victimless crimes but deliberate acts that erode trust in our institutions.

A new sheriff is in town

Trumps DOJ, under leaders like Bondi and Patel, is signaling a new era of accountability. The January 2025 memo from Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Emil Bove directed prosecutors to pursue charges against local officials who obstructed immigration enforcement, citing laws against conspiracy and harboring.

This isnt authoritarianism; its the executive branch fulfilling its constitutional duty to enforce federal law. The arrest of Hannah Dugan is a bold step toward restoring the rule of law, ensuring that even those in high office face consequences for breaking it.

This isnt tyranny, this is a victory  a reminder that justice, when applied equally, strengthens the nation. Let the left cry foul; their double standards no longer hold sway.

No one is above the law, including Judge Hannah Dugan.

Good.

Originally published at the Standing for Freedom Center.
Home Opinion Utterly sickening: Christian nationalists praise Nazi leader who killed own children

Joseph Goebbels, Hitlers Minister of Propaganda and one of his most loyal disciples, died by suicide on May 1, 1945  just one day after the Fuhrer took his own life in the bowels of the Berlin bunker. But before Goebbels followed his master into death, he and his wife Magda carried out one final, unspeakable act of devotion to the crumbling Nazi regime: the deliberate murder of their six children, all under the age of 13.



They drugged them with morphine, placed cyanide capsules in their mouths as they slept, and watched as their young lives were extinguished. Then, they turned their violence on themselves.

While the approaching Soviet Red Army was notorious for committing heinous atrocities  rape, torture, mass executions, and the brutal treatment of civilians  its crucial to understand that this fear, real as it was, was not the primary motivator for the Goebbels murder-suicide. The idea that Joseph and Magda Goebbels were protecting their children from rape or torture has become a grotesque and historically illiterate myth, now shamefully repeated by a new and deeply disturbed sect of self-identified Christian nationalists.

Several of these voices  most notably Wesley Todd of Right Response Ministries (Joel Webbons right-hand man) and Corey Mahler of the Stone Choir podcast  have praised Goebbels actions as righteous and necessary. Mahler boldly declared, This was his Christian duty under those circumstances. If you do not understand this fact, then you are no man and should remain silent. Todd agreed, tweeting, Its a tragic situation but I would do the same if my family was going to be brutalized by the Red Army. When challenged by another user who asked if that meant murder was now justifiable, Todd responded, Killing is not the same as murder. He later elaborated: Once the option of fleeing had passed, in this situation you have two and only two options: 1. Your wife and four daughters (including one as young as four) are raped and tortured to death by hundreds of men. 2. They die painlessly by your hand. Thats it. No third option.

Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe

But this entire premise  that there was no third option is false. Magda Goebbels herself admitted that she could have fled. In her final letter to her 12-year-old son Harald (from a previous marriage), she wrote:

You shall know that I stayed here against daddys will, and that even on last Sunday the Fuhrer wanted to help me to get out. You know your mother  we have the same blood, for me there was no wavering.

She wasnt cornered. She wasnt without options. She chose to stay  chose to murder her children  because she could not imagine a world without Hitler. Her letter continues:

Our glorious idea is ruined and with it everything beautiful and marvelous that I have known in my life. The world that comes after the Fuhrer and National Socialism is not any longer worth living in and therefore I took the children with me, for they are too good for the life that would follow, and a merciful God will understand me when I will give them salvation (death)  We only have one goal left: loyalty to the Fuhrer even in death and to be able to end our lives with him is an honor.

This was not a desperate act of mercy. It was a deliberate, cold, and theologically blasphemous murder-suicide  a final offering to the idol of Nazi ideology. And it is utterly sickening that anyone claiming the name of Christ would excuse, defend, or glorify it. The Goebbels children were not saved from brutality. They were slaughtered by their own parents because those parents believed Hitler was the worlds savior, and his fall marked the end of anything good or meaningful. This was child sacrifice, pure and simple. And now, shockingly, some Christian nationalists are defending that sacrifice in the name of some perverse version of masculine duty and theological righteousness.

Joseph fought to save the White race and preserve Christianity. He and his children are martyr's for both causes and are being comforted in paradise (Another delusioned Nationalist on Twitter).

The comparison here to modern radical pro-abortion rhetoric is not a stretch  it is disturbingly accurate. The pro-abortionist says, Better for the child to die now than to suffer later. Magda Goebbels said the same: They are too good for the life that would follow. The pro-abortionist says, The world is broken and unfair  bringing a child into it is cruel. Magda said, The world after the Fuhrer and National Socialism is not any longer worth living in. Both rationales are rooted not in faith, but in fear, unbelief, and narcissism. Both elevate human judgment over Gods sovereignty and presume the right to decide who lives and dies.

Is murdering your children Biblical?

Bible: absolutely not

Joel Webbon fans: Sure, if it prevents their suffering

Abortionists: Sure, if it prevents their suffering (Cody Lawrence on Twitter).

That we even have to say these things  that Christian leaders are out here defending the murder of children as righteous  shows how far gone some parts of the Christian nationalist movement really are. When youre praising Joseph Goebbels as a man of moral courage, youve left biblical Christianity behind. Youre not fighting for Christ  youre dragging His name through the mud. Jesus said, It would be better for a man to have a millstone tied around his neck and be thrown into the sea than to cause one of these little ones to stumble (Luke 17:2). What then should be said of those who kill them, glorify it, and invoke God while doing so?

Theres a famous story about Alexander the Great. A cowardly young soldier, also named Alexander, was brought before him. When asked his name, the boy quietly replied, Alexander, sir. The great general responded, Then either change your behavior or name. That should be said today to those calling themselves Christian nationalists while defending evil. If youre going to claim Christ, your life, your words, and your judgment must reflect Him.



Change your behavior, Christian Nationalists, or change your name.
In the past 12 months, the cryptography and security community has experienced heightening concern about the progress of quantum computing. The last year has been marked by key developments in quantum computing technology, as well as multiple instances of false alarms over potential quantum breakthroughs that put cryptography at risk. Although these alarms were ultimately disproven, when considered alongside genuine advancements in quantum computing, they highlighted the fragility of societys digital infrastructure. A sufficiently powerful quantum computer could break much of the cryptography relied upon globally.

Given how fundamental cryptography is to security everywhere, a quantum computing breakthrough before the world is ready would jeopardise security. It could allow attackers to run riot across our digital infrastructure  giving them freedom to access network services, takeover devices, steal blockchain assets, decrypt sensitive data, and more.

In reaction to these advancements, there has been an increased sense of urgency to fortify cryptography, driven by technical authorities and experts. This urgency has led to accelerated timelines and new policies to address the looming quantum threat [1]. Against this backdrop, the security community has intensified its preparations. Academia, standards bodies, governments, and industry are collaborating and making concerted efforts to migrate technologies to being quantum resistant.

HP is actively preparing for the quantum threat. Its security innovation strategy has long been focused on making the necessary preparations to protect customers from emerging and evolving cyber threats, and this includes the threat to cryptography from future quantum computers. In this effort, HP is prioritising quantum resistance for the critical device foundations that secure customers  starting from hardware and low-level firmware.

Boris Balacheff, HP Fellow and Chief Technologist for Security Research and Innovation and Head of the HP Security Lab, says: As innovation progresses towards more powerful quantum computers, it is urgent to prepare for the threat this represents to the asymmetric cryptography we depend on in our daily digital lives.

This starts with migrating systems that cannot be updated easily once deployed. After the introduction of quantum-resistant firmware integrity protection in PCs last year, [we announced the] launch of printers with similar capability to protect against future quantum computing threats. We continue with our commitment to lead the way with endpoint security innovation and keep our customers safe into the future.

Why its crucial to act now

The threat quantum computers pose to cryptography has steadily advanced this past year, creating an unacceptable security risk to the algorithms fundamental to securing our digital lives. It would be devastating if these cryptographic algorithms were broken. In response, this last year national authorities and industry experts have intensified their calls to migrate to quantum-resistant cryptography.

Multiple quantum technologies have shown improved stability and scalability, providing promising pathways to a large-scale quantum computer. Experts now estimate that there is a 27% likelihood of a quantum computer breaking cryptography by 2034 [2]. Furthermore, the US, Australia and several European nations have set timelines and guidance for the transition, with 2030 emerging as the probable pivotal date after which many organisations should not rely upon existing quantum-vulnerable asymmetric cryptography.

Organisations should be preparing now by assessing their risks and engaging their vendors to introduce quantum resistance ahead of the threat being realised, prioritising protection of long-lived sensitive data and the hardware security foundation. With general purpose quantum-resistant cryptography algorithms now standardised by NIST and being adopted internationally, 2025 is the first full year where most quantum-vulnerable implementations now have a viable migration path. As a result, HP expects to see protocols and products offering quantum resistance on a widespread scale. So, now is the time to ask vendors how they will be providing quantum-resistant protection.

Two significant false alarms of a quantum breakthrough sent jitters through the security community last year. Though these were effectively assessed, they serve to keep us alert to how damaging a real breakthrough could be on our digital infrastructure if we do not get ahead and prepare now.

HP understands the quantum threat. Its strategy is to prioritise quantum resistance in hardware foundations and securely migrate from there. Last year, HP introduced the worlds first business PCs to protect firmware integrity against quantum computer attacks [3]. It has also announced the worlds first printers to protect firmware integrity against quantum computer attacks [4]. These security innovations show HPs commitment to anticipating threats and protecting customers into the future.

Click here to read the full article.

[1] Anticipating the Quantum Threat to Cryptography | HP Wolf Security

[2] Global Risk Institute Quantum Threat Timeline 2024 Report, December 2024

[3] HP Launches Worlds First Business PCs to Protect Firmware Against Quantum Computer Hacks | HP Official Site, 7 March 2024

[4] HP Launches Worlds First Printers to Protect Against Quantum Computer Attacks | HP Official Site, 18 March 2025
60th Annual Directions Conference here in San Jose, California. And I'm delighted to be joined by Marlanna Bozicevich, who's one of IDC's analysts. She's a research analyst around data platforms. And we're here to talk all things. AI, Marlanna, thank you for joining us.

And so let's start with a bit of a level set, okay.
Sign up for The Media Today, CJRs daily newsletter.

After 1,175 days in a Belarusian prison, Andrei Kuznechyk, a journalist with the US-funded international broadcaster Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, learned that he was being released just fifteen minutes before it actually happened. The first feeling was fear, he said, for his wife and two young children; at the time, he didnt know that his family had already been transported out of Belarus to nearby Lithuania, where they were waiting to be reunited with him. The second was incomprehension. Why are the authorities throwing me, a Belarusian, out of my own country? In prison, Kuznechyk had heard rumblings that Russia had been part of a deal that included the release of Russian political prisoners. I imagined the possibility of such an event, he said. But I didnt imagine that I would end up in such a scheme.

Kuznechyk, who works for RFE/RLs Belarusian Service, known as Radio Svaboda, was initially detained in November 2021 while on a bike ride near his home in the capital, Minsk, and then served ten days in jail on hooliganism charges, which he denied; just as he was set to be released, authorities kept him in prison and added another charge, of creating or participating in an extremist organization. In June 2022, in a trial that lasted just one day, a court found him guilty and sentenced him to six years in prison. US officials, Kuznechyks employer, and press freedom groups decried the conviction as politically motivated. His plight underscored Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenkos harsh crackdown on independent media.

Last summer, Kuznechyks colleague Alsu Kurmasheva was freed from prison in Russia as part of a wider prisoner swap (which included Belarus) overseen by the Biden administration; talks to free other jailed RFE/RL journalists initially seemed to have some momentum, CJR reported earlier this year, but this then appeared to fizzle out. In the end, and perhaps somewhat surprisingly, it was the Trump administration that brokered the deal that led to Kuznechyks release, on February 12. He was resettled in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, with his family.

Then, just over a month later, the Trump administration moved to gut the US Agency for Global Media, which oversees congressionally funded but editorially independent news outlets including RFE/RL, Voice of America, and Radio Free Asia. Now the outlets, which in 2024 reached a combined weekly audience of 427 million people worldwide, are at risk of being silenced. (Last week, a US court ruled that USAGM can withhold funds from Radio Free Asia and the Middle East Broadcasting Networks while the agency appeals court orders requiring it to disburse the money; RFE/RL has filed an emergency petition in anticipation of being subject to the same sort of decision, according to a spokesperson.) Kuznechyk is experiencing a complex set of emotions. He says he is relishing his newfound freedom. But the sweetness has partly been tempered by the fact that RFE/RL is fighting for its lifeand the knowledge that several of his colleagues remain imprisoned around the world for doing their jobs. Recently, I caught up with Kuznechyk over email and with the help of a translator. Our conversation has been edited for length and clarity.



LS: Only a few months have passed since you were released from prison. How are you doing?

AK: I am still in the euphoria of freedom, of being reunited with my family. And in amazement at how much the world has changed in just three years. This amazement, unfortunately, is not always joyful. There is almost no news about the war in Ukraine from the Belarusian official media. I learned many shocking facts a short time after my release. When we rejoiced in the penal colony for those [Belarusian] political prisoners who were being released, we did not know that even after their release, they remain on blacklists with severe restrictions and under daily control of the security forces. When we heard the news about pardons, we did not know that the steamroller of repression was not going to stop.

Can you tell me about your time in prison? What did a typical day look like for you, and how did you cope?

Sign up for CJRs daily email

While imprisoned, I spent time in several places of detention. Typical days varied. When I was in the pretrial detention center, there was a lot of time for reading, whereas when I was in the penal colony, there was almost no time to read. What united these places was a feeling of powerlessness, helplessness to influence anything, bitterness at separation from loved ones; at unjust deprivation of freedom. Wherever I was, I waited for letters every day. Although those on the outside were not able to write to us about the news, because the first addressee was the censor, they tried to console me, to talk about positive moments in family life, children growing up. Somehow seven letters in a row from my wife did not pass censorship. I was beside myself. I can imagine how hard it is for political prisoners who have been deprived of even the opportunity to correspond with their families.

How did I cope? I thought about my family. About going out to them without having changed under the influence of prison rules, without allowing prison realities to enslave my soul. The journalistic habit of trusting only information that you can verifywhich is impossible in prisonled me to believe almost nothing, neither propaganda nor exhausting rumors of imminent release, pardon, or amnesty that gave false hope. That is why there were no painful disappointments.

Can you tell me about the moment when you first met your family in Vilnius after being released? How did you feel?

I felt immensely happy and guilty at the same time. Guilty that I missed three years of my children growing up. That my wife had to cope with everything on her own all this time. That now they had to leave their home, relatives, and homeland, and start life from scratch. That they did all this is a great vote of confidence in me and a manifestation of boundless love. I am immensely grateful to them for this.

Calls from some Trump advisers to shutter RFE/RL and VOA began in February, shortly before your release. When did you learn about all that?

I first learned about RFE/RLs situation from a news broadcast on one of the state TV channels when I was in the KGB pretrial detention center. Then, RFE/RL president Stephen Capus, who met me in Vilnius when I was released and helped me with everything during my first few days of freedom, told me about the organizations difficult situation on the way to the clothes store the day after my release. It still seems to me that it is a misunderstanding that RFE/RL could close down at a time when its voice is so needed.

What role has RFE/RL historically played in Belarus in providing independent news to Belarusians?

Radio Svaboda is more than just a source of information that is otherwise unavailable in the country. In Belarus, it has created a Belarusian cultural code; reopened hushed-up pages of history; introduced outstanding writers, musicians, and artists. It is difficult to overestimate the role of Radio Svaboda in preserving the traditions of the Belarusian language. All this is with constant professionalism and journalistic courage. But that is not all. Radio Svaboda has always been more than a media outlet, more than a source of content. It is listened to and read with the hope that someday, sooner rather than later, Belarus will become part of the free world.

Whats at stake if RFE/RL is no longer able to broadcast to Belarus?

Radio Svaboda is a unique media outlet in the modern history and present of Belarus. Its closure would be a gift to the forces that consider objective journalism, democratic values, and uncontrolled, uninfringed Belarusian culture and language a threat to their control over society and its future. Belarusians will lose not only an uncensored media outlet, but also a symbol of hope.

Four of your colleagues at RFE/RL are still imprisoned around the world, as are other journalists from RFE/RLs sister outlets Voice of America and Radio Free Asia. Whats your message to them?

In prison, I and other political prisoners were told more than once that everyone had forgotten about us, that no one needed us. Some eventually began to believe this. This is not true. They remember you and do what they can to bring the day of liberation closer. Therefore, my message to them is: hold on and take care of yourselves.

What have you enjoyed most since being released from prison? How have you been spending your days?

Most of all, I value time spent with my family: when I can make my son laugh, make my daughter happy, and allow my wife to rest. I like to walk and ride my bike. I enjoy the space, the relief, the architecture of Vilnius, the spring blossoms, the meetings, the music in my headphones, and how everything has changed for the better with technology. And I understand less and less howin this world successfully moving towards progress, convenience, and beautywars can go on and dictatorships can strengthen.



Other notable stories:

In yet more shocking news about the US Agency for Global Media, Kari Lake, the former local news anchor turned failed political candidate whom Trump has tapped as a special adviser to USAGM, announced last night that she had reached a deal for Voice of America to distribute content from One America News Network, a pro-Trump channel that has settled numerous defamation suits over its coverage of Trumpworlds lies about the 2020 election. NPRs David Folkenflik reports that the agreement could help Lake to restore content to VOA while the future of its actual journalists remains in legal limbo. Either way, the reaction from agency and network veterans was swift and indignant, Folkenflik writes. Grant Turner, a former USAGM executive, said that Lakes OAN move makes a mockery of the agencys history of independent nonpartisan journalism.

CJRs Meghnad Bose reports on the case of Georgia Dillane, a student at Barnard College, which is affiliated with Columbia University, who covered a pro-Palestinian protest on campus from the studio of WKCR, Columbias radio station, then was ordered to share information about the event with administrators. After WKCR pushed back, citing a New York law that protects journalists from having to testify in official investigations, the administration appeared to accuse Dillane of taking part in the protest in violation of a code of conduct, and suggested that she would not be able to graduate if she didnt attend a meeting about it. In the end, Barnard dropped the demand, and said it had made a mistake. (A second student journalist underwent a very similar ordeal.)

The Guardians Margaret Simons makes the case that Rupert Murdochs media empire no longer has the power to swing elections in Australia, after the countrys center-left government beat out the right-wing opposition to remain in power. The idea that no leader can win without Murdoch hasnt been the case for at least 15 years and yet we have not broken free from the fear, caution and intellectual paralysis that results from the belief, Simons writes. Indeed, Murdochs properties may even have become a distorting mirror for the right, dragging it away from the concerns of middle Australia.

And the highly secretive papal conclave, during which cardinals will vote to elect a new pope following the recent death of Francis, gets underway in the Vatican today. According to Politicos Ben Munster, some first-time participants have turned to the recent (fictional) Ralph Fiennes movie Conclave for tips as to how it might go down. Already, pre-conclave lobbying has proved a hotbed of scandal no less sensational than the Hollywood imitation, Munster writes. Among other things, hardened Vatican insiders have leaked anonymous barbs against rivals to the Italian press.
Instagrams automated software systems recommended that child groomers connect with minors on the app, making it easier for them to find victims, according to a 2019 internal document presented in court by the Federal Trade Commission.

The Meta Platforms Inc. report noted that minors made up 27% of the follow recommendations that the social media app surfaced to groomers, a term the company used to refer to accounts they identified as exhibiting predatory behavior toward children. More broadly, the company found that 7% of Instagram follow recommendations to all adults were minors. The data, which was shared between company executives in June 2019, was presented in federal court on Tuesday as part of the FTCs antitrust lawsuit against Meta.

The document also included an analysis of 3.7 million user reports flagging inappropriate comments to the company. Meta, which was called Facebook at the time, found that about one-third of those reports came from minors. Of the minors who reported an inappropriate comment, 54% were reporting an adult.

Earlier in the trial the FTC offered evidence that Meta Chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg, when presented with safety issues on Instagram, chose not to offer that app enough resources to address the risks to users. After seeing the 2019 data, US District Judge James Boasberg asked the FTCs lawyers to speed things along.

Out-of-context and years-old documents about acquisitions that were reviewed by the FTC more than a decade ago will not obscure the realities of the competition we face or overcome the FTCs weak case, Meta said in a statement. The company added that it has long invested in child safety efforts, and in 2018 began work to restrict recommendations for potentially suspicious adults and encouraged the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children to expand its reporting process to include additional grooming situations it noticed.

Guy Rosen, Metas chief information security officer, argued on the stand Tuesday that difficulties protecting young people online are not unique to Meta. These challenges are present everywhere in the industry, Rosen said when questioned by Metas lawyers. Rosen took over Metas integrity efforts in 2017, and leads the team responsible for fighting content that violates the companys policies.

Lawyers for the FTC surfaced the internal data as part of an argument that Metas acquisition of Instagram ultimately harmed consumers. Government lawyers have used emails and other internal documents, including testimony from Instagram founder Kevin Systrom, to argue that Meta under-invested in the apps safety and security efforts. The FTC first sued Meta in 2020, alleging that Metas acquisitions of WhatsApp and Instagram were illegal and that the company needs to be broken up.

Earlier in the trial, Systrom argued that Zuckerberg starved Instagram of resources in part because he felt threatened by the apps success and worried that it would cannibalize the social network he founded, Facebook.

The FTC surfaced more emails Tuesday that supported that theory. In May 2018, Adam Mosseri, a senior Meta product executive who would take a job to lead Instagram later that year, asked Rosen for an honest assessment of Instagrams integrity work. Rosen warned at the time that Instagram was behind in terms of fighting harmful content, including child exploitation and terrorism-related content. Rosen suggested that this posed a risk, particularly to the platforms younger audiences, and that he was seeking to expand aggressively into addressing these issues.

The FTC painted a portrait of a company reluctant to do so. In a different exchange from February 2019, Rosen wrote in an email that he relayed his concerns that Instagram was being underfunded to Zuckerberg during a planning meeting about increasing company headcount. The resource allocation was deliberate, Rosen concluded after speaking with Zuckerberg. Zuckerberg thought Instagram had another year or two to catch up to Facebook and didnt feel the app needed as many resources. I think we are not sure thats the case anymore, Rosen said.

An internal presentation titled Instagram Well-being H1 2019  planning  a planning document for the first half of 2019  acknowledged that Instagrams integrity team was thin relative to the scope and importance of the work. Given resource limitations, we will not be doing major proactive work in areas like harassment, financial scams, credible threats of violence, impersonation, prostitution and sexual solicitation and forms of child exploitation, the presentation said.

Rosen, when cross-examined by Metas lawyers, said it wouldnt be fair to say that Meta starved the Instagram integrity team, and that Zuckerberg was aligned with him in the need to support Instagram. He believes that nobody in the industry invested as much or prioritized these challenges as much as Meta.

Weve grown substantially, Rosen said.

The company in September launched Instagram Teen Accounts, which have protections to limit who can contact teens and are by default private. Theyre in the strictest messaging settings, meaning they cant be messaged by anyone theyre not already connected to, Meta said in a statement. Teens under 16 need a parents permission to change these settings. In 2021, we launched technology to identify adults accounts that had shown potentially suspicious activity, such as being blocked by a teen, and prevent them from finding, following and interacting with teens accounts. We dont recommend these accounts to teens, or vice versa.

Top photo: An employee walks past branded posters displayed at the Instagram Inc. office in New York, on Monday, June 4, 2018. Photographer: Jeenah Moon/Bloomberg.

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.
Rattled flyers are deciding that trips through Newark just arent worth it.

For days, red cancellation signs have flashed across the airports boards and flights have been delayed, leaving travelers stranded. And then there was the revelation about an unsettling lapse: a 90-second breakdown in radio contact for air traffic controllers, which passed safely but had the potential for catastrophe.

A worker shortage, aging technology and runway construction mean a fix for the chaos is unlikely to come soon. The tumult, coming in the wake of a series of high-profile aviation incidents across the US, is now leading travelers to reconsider flying out of the New Jersey hub at all.

Related: Newark Radar Failure Left Controllers Blind for 90 Seconds

I feel a dire need for me to change my travel plans, said Camille Onuoha, a 29-year-old who travels from Atlanta to visit her family in New Jerseys Bergen County almost every month. She now plans to avoid Newark at all costs, opting to double her driving time by flying in and out of New Yorks LaGuardia Airport instead.

The ongoing travel chaos  exacerbated by last weeks air traffic outage and resulting staffing reductions  means one of the three key airports serving the New York City area is being gripped by uncertainty. The Newark Liberty International Airport handled more than 48 million passengers last year and is United Airlines Holdings Inc.s biggest hub for international departures and a primary gateway for domestic flights. The company said last week that it will cut 35 daily round trips at the hub.

More than 580 flights were cancelled or delayed on Monday, and 624 flights on Sunday, according to FlightAware. Over 520 were affected on Tuesday. United is offering affected passengers options to rebook trips through LaGuardia or Philadelphia without charging fees or fare differences.

Related: A Look at Recent Aircraft Tragedies, Mishaps and Close Calls

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which operates the airport, referred all questions to the FAA or United. US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said it was safe to fly into and out of Newark, as his agency outlined plans to improve technology infrastructure and staffing levels for the air-traffic controllers that oversee flights bound for the airport.

That hasnt calmed people such as Elajah Vasquez, a New Jersey resident who says she wont fly out of Newark until there are major changes implemented. She has already rebooked a flight to Lubbock, Texas, to travel out of LaGuardia, and says she has multiple other planned trips that will need to be shifted because of safety worries.

I feel very uneasy, especially given the issues with airplanes already happening, and disappointed, she said. For Newark to be an international airport and clearly lack stable infrastructure is a testament to the countrys standing.

Newark is integral to the air transportation system in the New York area, which means its problems have ripple effects, said Michael McCormick, associate professor and program coordinator of the air-traffic management program at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

However New York goes, so goes the rest of the country, McCormick said. If Newark is not running well, that means New York is not running well, which means the rest of the air traffic system is not going to run well.

Adding to the chaos unfolding across airports, officials have warned travelers to expect even more delays this week as requirements for new federally approved Real ID identification cards go into effect on Wednesday.

The flying public has become increasingly jittery over the past year following a series of aviation accidents and harrowing near-misses. Boeing Co. faced some passengers reluctance to board its planes after a 737 Max aircraft was involved in an almost-catastrophic accident in early 2024, highlighting how quickly public sentiment can turn against a company  or in the case of Newark, an airport.

Mary Rosalva, who used to work as a cleaner at Newark airport, said she is shocked at the state of the facility and has never seen travel disruptions like the ones happening now. In the past few days, her TikTok feed has been flooded with videos about the turmoil and panicked passengers changing their flights.

The 30-year-old has tickets to fly to Las Vegas for a Beyonce concert in July, and is contemplating traveling instead from another New York airport or Philadelphia.

Its a little scary because weve been seeing a lot of airplane crashes over the course of the year, Rosalva said about the shortage of air-control staff. You wouldnt think that this would happen in Newark.

On Sunday, what was supposed to be a three to four hour travel day turned into a 14-hour travel nightmare for Lissette Pedreiras as she was coming home from Miami to Bridgewater, New Jersey, after a cruise.

Her original flight was set to take off at 5:20 p.m., but as the time got closer there were no plane or gate agents in sight. She said passengers received little communication on the delays, leaving them in limbo for hours until the plane finally took off around midnight.

Pedreiras, 43, has plans to fly out of Newark in August, but is now debating switching to another airport to avoid the mess, especially since shell be traveling with kids.

Onuoha, the Atlanta traveler, says those types of delays on her monthly trips would be deeply disruptive. She plans to continue flying through LaGuardia until conditions improve at Newark.

I really hope that things do change in the future with staffing, she said.

Top photo: Workers in the United Airlines Station Operation Center at Newark airport.

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.
More than one in five people prescribed extended-release painkillers such as OxyContin developed an addiction within a year, according to a newly released study mandated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The study, repeatedly delayed by more than a decade and released Monday, revealed a far higher percentage of pain patients addicted to opioids than drugmakers sales reps claimed in their marketing materials and representations to physicians.

The FDA now faces the question of how to use this data to evaluate whether the agency should make changes to opioid regulation, limiting broad approvals of long-acting opioids for extended use. The FDA is currently holding hearings to discuss the findings and is being asked by advocates to change the drugs labels, which guide how doctors prescribe them.

When the opioid market was thrown open to millions of chronic pain patients in the 1990s and early 2000s, Purdue Pharmas sales reps and promotional videos asserted that fewer than 1% of patients became addicted to painkillers. Extended-release pills were designed to continually dose opioids to stave off chronic pain.

Data released Monday show that 22.5% of pain patients who started on extended-release, long-acting drugs developed opioid use disorder, or addiction, within a year. The findings stem from a post-marketing study requirement mandated by the FDA in 2013, which was funded by a consortium of opioid manufacturers including Purdue, Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals and Endo Pharmaceuticals  all of which have filed for bankruptcy following settlements.

The findings are striking and disturbing and they raise ethical questions because so many study subjects were harmed, said Andrew Kolodny, president of Physicians for Responsible Opioid Prescribing. How can you have a label that suggests this is safe and effective when you now have evidence that its unsafe and still dont have evidence that its effective?

In March, Purdue filed a $7.4 billion bankruptcy plan to resolve thousands of lawsuits related to the companys role in the opioid epidemic. A representatives for Purdue declined to comment. Spokespeople for Mallinckrodt and Endo werent immediately available.

Efforts to get a clear picture of exactly how addictive these long-acting opioids are have been thwarted through the years as drugmakers and patient advocates lobbied for easy access to opioids and disputed the definition of addiction. The epidemic has claimed more than 800,000 lives in the U.S. since 1999 and remains a major public health problem.

Millions of Americans have become dependent on opioid pills, even as mounting evidence suggests these drugs should never have been approved as safe and effective for chronic pain. The agencys own labeling  meant to define a drugs use, flag its risks, and limit its marketing  helped legitimize widespread, high dose, long-term prescribing without the clinical evidence to support it, as revealed in a Businessweek investigation.

Top photo: A patient holds a blister pack of OxyContin pain relief tablets. Photographer: David Hartley/Bloomberg.

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.
Seven Hills is pursuing a sister city relationship with Coreno Ausonio, Italy. John Benson/cleveland.com

SEVEN HILLS, Ohio -- Exactly 4,658 miles separate Seven Hills and the Italian municipality of Coreno Ausonio.

That great divide is about to shrink, with Seven Hills Mayor Anthony D. Biasiotta recently proposing a sister city partnership.

The selection of the community located roughly halfway between Rome and Naples isnt by accident.

Thats the hometown of my grandfather Luigi, who would say it was very beautiful and known for the marble, Biasiotta said.

Its a place where you know everybodys treated like family whether you are or arent.

From left, Seven Hills resident Tina Barile, Circolo Italo Americano Corenese Clubs Domenic Zinicola, Seven Hills Mayor Anthony D. Biasiotta and Seven Hills resident Nick Zappitelli were present at the signing of the sister city partnership invitation. Courtesy of Seven Hills

That last sentiment rings true, with Coreno Ausonio Mayor Simone Costanzo not only agreeing to the invitation, but planning a stateside visit this summer.

On behalf of Coreno Ausonio, I sincerely thank Mayor Tony Biasiotta and the city of Seven Hills for choosing to become our sister city.

This bond is made even more meaningful knowing that Mayor Biasiotta has roots in our beloved village. We look forward to visiting and celebrating this special and historic occasion together.

Both city leaders have been in communication about such a bond going back to when Biasiotta was first elected mayor in 2019.

Apparently, the grapevine from Northeast Ohio reaches Central Italy.

Theres a large population of Coreno Italians here in Northern Ohio, Biasiotta said.

They basically talked to the people in Coreno and said, Luigis grandson became mayor of one of our local cities. They were so excited about it.

That excitement now extends to Costanzos upcoming visit, which Biasiotta said hes currently planning.

Next up for the Biasiotta will be a visit to Italy -- his first -- which he stressed will be on his own dime.

What Im really hoping is this becomes an annual thing and council members bring forth cities from their ancestry places, or places that they may have a connection with, he said.

Its just a cultural exchange, but its good to take a global view.

One thing on my newsletters is, Think global, act local. But this is an instance where we can think global and act global in a meaningful way.

Read more news from the Parma Sun Post.
Although an appellate court upheld the conviction of Larry Householder as the most corrupt official in Ohio history, one judge said he thinks the kind of bribery that Householder engaged in should be legal, a claim criticized by the Today in Ohio podcast.(Butler County Sheriff's Office via AP) AP

Former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder will remain behind bars after the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously upheld his corruption conviction in whats been called Ohios largest-ever political bribery scandal.

But a concurring opinion criticized Wednesday on the Today in Ohio podcast suggests such corruption might actually be protected speech under a different interpretation of the law, bringing condemnation.

One of the judges states in a concurring opinion that really, under the law, as it stands, this conviction holds. But he doesnt think the law is right. He thinks the U.S. supreme Court should revisit this, explained Laura, noting the potential loophole for future corruption cases.

The conviction stems from a $60 million bribery scheme in which FirstEnergy funneled money to Householder in exchange for his support of a $1.3 billion bailout of the companys nuclear power plants. While the three-judge panel (consisting of one Democrat and two Republicans) unanimously upheld the conviction, the concurring opinion from a Trump-appointed judge raised alarms about the future of anti-corruption prosecutions.

Yeah, its amazing to me that a judge would say such a thing, Chris Quinn said. Under this judges claim, its okay for Larry Householder to say, give me $60 million and Ill give you a billion dollar plus bailout. Thats what this judge is saying here.

The judges opinion relies heavily on the landmark Citizens United decision, which equated political spending with protected free speech. The controversial Supreme Court ruling has already transformed campaign finance regulations and, according to the podcast hosts, opened the floodgates to dark money in politics.

Johnston explained the judges concerning perspective: This is a Trump appointee, and hes saying this is a criminalization of, quote, routine political activity, which is the argument weve seen from Householder, the argument we saw from Jimmy Dimora, that this is just the way things work.

The podcast discussion highlighted how Citizens United has already dramatically changed political financing, with Quinn noting: In the old days of politics, politicians were bought and paid for, but Americans demanded reform. You had campaign finance reporting, you had all sorts of rules about how things could go. Citizens United changed it.

The hosts expressed alarm that instead of recognizing the need for greater transparency and reform, this federal judge appears to favor further deregulation that would essentially legalize political bribery.

The conversation underscored how money from special interests already dominates Ohio politics: Every time we talk about something in the State House, whether its fracking or private school vouchers, we ask whos giving the money? And we cant give everyone the answer, because dark money is just that. Its dark.

The Householder case represents a critical juncture in American political ethics  whether to strengthen guardrails against corruption or normalize pay-to-play politics as constitutionally protected activity.

We basically have said it is okay to secretly bribe these politicians with millions and millions of dollars, Quinn lamented, highlighting the stakes of this ongoing debate.

For the full discussion, listen here.

Note: Artificial intelligence was used to help generate this story from Today in Ohio, a news podcast discussion by cleveland.com editors. Visitors to cleveland.com have asked for more text stories based on website podcast discussions.

Listen to full Today in Ohio episodes where Chris Quinn hosts our daily half-hour news podcast, with Editorial Board member Lisa Garvin, Impact Editor Leila Atassi and Content Director Laura Johnston.
Ohio voters weighed in Tuesday on Issue 2, which sought approval for $2.5 billion in new state bonds for local infrastructure projects. (Daytona Niles, Kalamazoo Gazette file photo) Daytona Niles
China rolls out measures to optimize public employment services system

Xinhua) 09:42, May 07, 2025

BEIJING, May 6 (Xinhua) -- China on Tuesday rolled out 20 measures to optimize its public employment services system, aiming to improve the availability, equality and professional quality of such services.

A set of guidelines issued by five government authorities, including the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, call for the provision of local or easily accessible public employment services for urban and rural workers and employers.

The guidelines underscore the importance of releasing comprehensive employment information and providing precise career introduction and guidance services, while improving the management of both employment and unemployment.

They state that the types and degrees of difficulties that people face in seeking employment should be identified accurately so that targeted services can be provided.

They also call for cities and counties to enhance their comprehensive capability to provide full-chain public employment services.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
 
Trump ratcheted up tariffs last month on Chinese imports to 145% even as he scaled back so-called reciprocal tariffs on almost all other U.S. trading partners. China , which is one of America's largest trading partners, retaliated with steep tariffs on U.S. goods.

"My sense is that this will be about de-escalation, not about the big trade deal," Bessent told host Laura Ingraham. "But we've got to de-escalate, before we can move forward."

The meetings appear to be a major step toward Washington and Beijing beginning negotiations to potentially resolve the ongoing trade war ignited by President Donald Trump .

Bessent and Greer will meet with their Chinese counterparts on both Saturday and Sunday, the Treasury secretary said.

"We have shared interests," Bessent said later on Fox News' "Ingraham Angle." The current tariff war "isn't sustainable," said Bessent, "especially on the Chinese side. And, you know, 145 percent [tariffs], 125 percent, is the equivalent of an embargo. We don't want to decouple, what we want is fair trade."

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will meet with their Chinese counterparts in Switzerland this weekend to discuss economic and trade matters, their offices announced Tuesday.

Stock futures, which opened in the red Tuesday evening, turned sharply higher immediately following news of the meetings.

Both Bessent and Greer plan to meet with Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter during their visit, their offices said.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry said Vice Premier He Lifeng, Beijing's top official for China-U.S. economic and trade matters, will meet with Bessent in Switzerland, NBC News reported.

"Economic security is national security, and President Donald J. Trump is leading the way both at home and abroad for a stronger, more prosperous America," Bessent said in a statement announcing the meetings.

"I look forward to productive talks as we work towards rebalancing the international economic system towards better serving the interests of the United States," Bessent said.

Greer's office said he "will also meet with his counterpart from the People's Republic of China to discuss trade matters" while in Geneva, his office said.

"At President Trump's direction, I am negotiating with countries to rebalance our trade relations to achieve reciprocity, open new markets, and protect America's economic and national security," Greer said.

"I look forward to having productive meetings with some of my counterparts as well as visiting with my team in Geneva who all work diligently to advance U.S. interests on a range of multilateral issues," Greer said.

Trump earlier Tuesday said that China wants to meet, and that the U.S. will do so "at the right time."

"They want to negotiate and they want to have a meeting and we'll be meeting with them at the right time," Trump said at the White House during a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.

Trump also expressed frustration at people "asking how many deals are you signing this week?" despite the fact that his administration had said other countries were asking for bilateral trade talks with the United States.

"Everyone says, 'When, when, when are you going to sign deals?'" Trump griped at the White House.

"We don't have to sign deals, they have to sign deals with us. They want a piece of our market. We don't want a piece of their market," Trump said.
CATL booth is seen during the 21st Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition (Auto Shanghai 2025) at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) on April 26, 2025 in Shanghai, China.

Prospective investors in Chinese battery giant CATL's Hong Kong listing to raise about $5 billion have been told the stock may be sold at a discount of less than 10% to the company's Shenzhen-listed shares, according to three sources with direct knowledge of the matter.

The discount offered could be around mid-single digits, two of the sources added.

CATL is meeting investors ahead of launching the book building for the deal next week that could be the largest new share sale in Hong Kong for four years.

Investors are pushing CATL to price the Hong Kong shares at least a 10% discount to the Shenzhen-traded stock, one of the sources and a fourth person told Reuters.

The pricing has not been finalized, the sources said.

CATL wants to have cornerstone and anchor investors subscribe for around half the shares to be sold in the deal, two of the sources added.

The sources could not be named discussing information that has not yet been made public.

CATL did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters.

CATL shares were trading 2.33% higher on Wednesday at 237.08 yuan. However, the stock has fallen nearly 11% this year. China's CSI300 index was up nearly 0.5%.

Hong Kong shares typically trade at a discount compared to mainland stocks. Investors are usually offered stock at a cheaper price in offshore listings like this as an incentive to buy into the share offering.

Midea Group priced its Hong Kong shares at about a 20% discount when it raised $4 billion in a listing in September last year.

The battery giant's listing would be the largest in Hong Kong since 2021, when Kuaishou Technology raised $6.2 billion in an initial public offering.

CATL has previously said in a regulatory filing that part of the funds raised will be used to build a 7.3 billion-euro ($8.28 billion) battery plant in Hungary.
The upcoming meeting in Switzerland between U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and his Chinese counterpart was requested by the Trump administration, Chinese officials said Wednesday.

China will be entering the talks "firmly" opposed to U.S. tariff hikes, and willing to participate only in a dialogue "based on equality, respect and mutual benefit," Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian wrote on X.

"To pressure or coerce China in whatever way simply does not work," wrote Lin. "We will resolutely safeguard our legitimate interests and uphold international fairness and justice."

The post shows China attempting to set the tone ahead of the high-stakes negotiations that could help resolve the tariff war launched by President Donald Trump.

But Trump appeared to take issue with China's characterization.

"They said we initiated? Well, I think they ought to go back and study their files, OK?" Trump said at the White House later Wednesday.

He did not answer a question about whether he was still confident that a deal with China could be reached.

Asked what he expected to come out of the meeting in Europe, Trump said, "We'll see ... we were losing a trillion dollars a year, now we're not losing anything, you know? It's the way I look at it."

The Trump administration has insisted it has the upper hand against China, arguing that Beijing needs American customers for its exports, or it risks economic collapse.

One of America's largest trading partners, China currently faces a blanket tariff rate of 145% on goods bound for the United States.

But China has repeatedly denied that it proactively reached out to the Trump administration to propose trade talks. Instead, Chinese officials recently said the country was assessing the Trump administration's overtures.
He Lifeng, China's vice premier, during a meeting with Janet Yellen, US Treasury secretary, not pictured, in San Francisco, California, US, on Friday, Nov. 10, 2023. David Paul Morris | Bloomberg | Getty Images

He Lifeng, a longtime confidant of Chinese President Xi Jinping who has slowly cultivated a reputation among foreign investors as a key fixer, will take center stage in talks on Saturday aimed at breaking a trade deadlock with the United States. The vice premier will meet in Switzerland with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and chief trade negotiator Jamieson Greer after weeks of escalating tensions that have seen the world's top two economies slap tariffs on each other's imports of more than 100%. U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly urged Xi to call him about a potential trade deal, but any off-ramp to the tensions is expected to run through He, who oversees U.S.-China economic and trade affairs. Reuters interviewed 13 foreign investors and diplomats who met with He over the past year. They described the 70-year-old's evolution from a stiff Communist Party apparatchik with non-existent English and a reluctance to stray from prepared remarks into a more confident figure who has impressed them with his ability to get things done. When the leaders of some of the world's largest companies flocked to Beijing for a business forum last month, many were left impressed by He, according to a U.S. business person briefed on the encounters. Most of the people spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss confidential interactions with He, who also wields vast regulatory oversight over China's sprawling financial sector. The vice premier has held at least 60 meetings with foreigners in the past year, according to Reuters' review of his public engagements. That marks a steady increase from 45 between March 2023, when he took office as vice premier, and March 2024. China's State Council did not respond to a faxed request for comment on the talks.

Defender of status quo?

But despite the vice premier's increasing comfort with engaging with Western executives, many of the businesspeople interviewed by Reuters said that He was not a policy innovator. The vice premier's newly improved reputation with American executives was likely enhanced because Chinese leaders appeared especially predictable and confident in the wake of chaos in the U.S., said the businessperson briefed about last month's meetings. He last served as head of China's key macroeconomic planning agency, where he was responsible for formulating industrial policy, and has repeatedly defended Beijing's export-led growth strategy in meetings with foreigners. A U.S. business person told Reuters that He, who has supported boosting manufacturing over domestic consumption, serves as Xi's "chief lieutenant for building a trillion-dollar surplus." He at other meanings had also repeatedly brushed off complaints about Chinese overcapacity, which are shared by many countries that Beijing is now courting as it seeks export pressure valves and new cooperation avenues, three people told Reuters. "On the daily level, He will be defending China's trade surplus," said Wen-Ti Sung, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council's Global China Hub. "It's hard to see He softening down on the trade surplus, an issue pivotal to China's job creation." The vice premier has been on the frontline of China's recent outreach to developed markets like Japan and the European Union, also hit by Trump's tariff barrage. After Switzerland, He will travel to France for a high-level economic dialogue.

Underwhelming start

Before He took on his current role, the economic portfolio was run by Liu He, a Harvard-educated economist with fluent English who negotiated a trade agreement with the United States during the first Trump administration. While the vice premier has a PhD in economics from Xiamen University, his domestic-focused background meant he has had a learning curve in serving as China's economic frontman to the world. Some American executives were underwhelmed by He after the official briefed them last July on the outcome of a key economic policy meeting, according to one person present. The person said the vice premier, who under party conventions should retire in 2027, didn't look particularly vigorous at the briefing, where he was flanked by dozens of aides. Predecessors of He like Liu and Wang Qishan, by contrast, were known among foreign interlocutors for their eloquence and relatively informal demeanor. The vice premier also downplayed concerns about Beijing's rare earth export controls and the safety of Japanese nationals in China following major stabbing events after they were raised by a Japanese business delegation in February. The businessperson briefed on He's March meetings described past discussions with the vice premier as akin to "talking to ChatGPT." But he said the Chinese official had more recently started to communicate in a way that appealed more to Western executives. The person, who has met He multiple times, was also impressed by the vice premier's ability to explain Beijing's position on economic policy and deliver on promises for assistance in a way officials who aren't close to Xi haven't been able to. The source did not provide specifics. Another foreign official who met He this year also said the vice premier was very aware of China's economic problems - which include deflationary pressures and an ageing population, on top of the tariffs and real-estate crisis - and provided a sophisticated analysis of the issues. He also appeared very confident about the prospects of the homegrown AI startup Deepseek, the official said.

'Typical bureaucrat' and demolisher
In this article .HSI

NVDA

AMD

.IXIC

.DJI

.SPX Follow your favorite stocks CREATE FREE ACCOUNT

U.S. President Donald Trump holds a meeting of the Fifa Task Force at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 6, 2025. Kent Nishimura | Reuters

Taken from CNBCs Daily Open, our international markets newsletter  Subscribe today

After U.S. President Donald Trump shattered  or at least fractured  global trade relationships and supply chains, there are promising signs of reconstruction in recent days. Indeed, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CNBC on Monday the country is "very close to some deals." On Tuesday, newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met Trump at the White House, potentially resetting a bilateral relationship that has been strained since January. And Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng is scheduled to meet Bessent in Switzerland this week for trade talks. But enter the hurricane that is Trump, again. "We don't have to sign deals, they have to sign deals with us. They want a piece of our market. We don't want a piece of their market," Trump said during his meeting with Carney, contradicting top White House officials' claim for weeks that such deals are the administration's top priority. Markets fell after his comments. The growing protectionism of the U.S., ironically may help other countries forge closer economic ties with each other. The U.K. and India agreed on a bilateral trade agreement that will remove tariffs on most items within a decade. Meanwhile, ASEAN and China are set to meet on May 19 to negotiate improvements to a free-trade agreement, according to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Monday. They may be new bridges being built in the aftermath of Trump tariffs. But those connections could bypass the U.S.  which, according to Trump, does not need deals anyway.

What you need to know today

And finally...

Tourists visit Pingyao Ancient City on the second day of the May Labor Day holiday on May 2, 2025, in Jinzhong, Shanxi province of China. Vcg | Visual China Group | Getty Images
U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during a rally at Macomb Community College on April 29, 2025, at Warren, Michigan, U.S. Scott Olson | Getty Images News | Getty Images

Taken from CNBCs Daily Open, our international markets newsletter  Subscribe today

After U.S. President Donald Trump shattered  or at least fractured  global trade relationships and supply chains, there are promising signs of reconstruction in recent days. Indeed, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CNBC on Monday the country is "very close to some deals." On Tuesday, newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met Trump at the White House, potentially resetting a bilateral relationship that has been strained since January. And Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng is scheduled to meet Bessent in Switzerland this week for trade talks. But enter the hurricane that is Trump, again. "We don't have to sign deals, they have to sign deals with us. They want a piece of our market. We don't want a piece of their market," Trump said during his meeting with Carney, contradicting top White House officials' claim for weeks that such deals are the administration's top priority. Markets fell after his comments. The growing protectionism of the U.S., ironically may help other countries forge closer economic ties with each other. The U.K. and India agreed on a bilateral trade agreement that will remove tariffs on most items within a decade. Meanwhile, ASEAN and China are set to meet on May 19 to negotiate improvements to a free-trade agreement, according to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Monday. They may be new bridges being built in the aftermath of Trump tariffs. But those connections could bypass the U.S.  which, according to Trump, does not need deals anyway.

What you need to know today

And finally...

An empty container ship of COSCO Shipping sails to a container terminal in Qingdao in east China's Shandong province Wednesday, April 16, 2025. Feature China | Future Publishing | Getty Images

Trump trade tariffs slump widens to 'nearly all U.S. exports,' supply chain data shows What began as a rapid drop in U.S. imports as shippers cut orders from manufacturing partners around the world has now extended into a nationwide export slump, with the U.S. agricultural sector and top farm products including soybeans, corn and beef taking the hardest hit. The latest trade data shows that a slide in U.S. exports to the world, and China in particular, that began in January now extends to most U.S. ports. The Port of Portland, Oregon, tops the list with a 51% decrease in exports, while the Port of Tacoma, Washington, a large agricultural export port, has seen a 28% decrease. The data is from trade tracker Vizion, which analyzed U.S. export container bookings for the five-week period before U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs began and the five weeks after the tariffs took effect.
Tourists visit Pingyao Ancient City on the second day of the May Labor Day holiday on May 2, 2025, in Jinzhong, Shanxi province of China. Vcg | Visual China Group | Getty Images

This report is from this week's edition of CNBC's The China Connection newsletter, which brings you insights and analysis on what's driving the world's second-largest economy. Each week, we'll explore the biggest business stories in China, give a lowdown on market moves and help you set up for the week ahead. Like what you see? You can subscribe here.

The big story

If people are spending in China, it's likely to be on travel  and businesses want a slice of that. After 10 years as the only hostel in China's Datong city, Fly by Knight suddenly gained six new competitors in one year, according to founder Daniel Huang. He said his 26-room venue was booked out for the May Labor Day holiday, which officially ran from Thursday to Monday. "Hotels are opening everywhere in Datong," he said, noting that one no-brand operator raised its prices for the holiday by more than five times to over 1,000 yuan ($140) a night. Surging interest in history and culture is helping. The popularity of Datong's Yungang Buddhist grottoes  a Unesco heritage site from around 1,500 years ago  skyrocketed after its statues were featured in the hit video game Black Myth: Wukong released last summer. More than 43,700 people visited the caves on May 1 alone, up over 10% from a year earlier, according to state media. The Grand Canyon averaged 13,477 visitors a day last year. The latest holiday shows young Chinese tourists remain very interested in museums and other cultural activities, said Ashley Dudarenok, founder of ChoZan, a China marketing consultancy. "What it means for international brands or local brands is that collaborating with those cultural icons is still a very, very important part of connecting with the consumer," she said. Nationwide, China reported 314 million domestic tourist trips over the May Labor Day holiday, continuing the steady increase in recent years and well above the pre-Covid level of 195 million in 2019. The government has extended the holiday in recent years, giving locals more time off as businesses typically offer employees only a handful of paid vacation days.

A short train ride

China's recently built transportation infrastructure is encouraging locals to visit smaller cities such as Datong, Huang said. He pointed out that before the Covid-19 pandemic, travelers had to take a six-hour train from the capital city of Beijing to Datong. Now, a high-speed train between the cities (about $20 per one-way ticket) takes less than two hours, with dozens of departure times throughout the day. The train route opened in December 2019. Tourists in China have been turning to less popular, more remote destinations that tend to be cheaper than visiting large cities. During the latest May Labor Day holidays, trips to rural areas rose by nearly 20% from a year ago, with interest in farm-themed stays surging, according booking site Trip.com. Retail sales, including food, rose by 6.3% during the holiday from a year ago, according to official figures. Tourism revenue increased by 8% to 180.27 billion yuan. "Despite concerns over macroeconomic headwinds, the strength of travel numbers tells us that consumer sentiment is resilient," said Jacob Cooke, co-founder and CEO of WPIC Marketing + Technologies. The company helps foreign brands  such as Vitamix and IS Clinical  sell online in China and other parts of Asia. "Chinese consumers are prioritizing spending on what matters most to them -- and right now, that includes travel," he said. When Chinese consumers were asked where they expected to increase their spending this year, travel topped the list, followed by groceries, according to a survey conducted on behalf of financial services firm TD Cowen in February and published last month. However, in a sign of lingering uncertainty, fewer respondents than last year said they had made travel plans for the next six months. The survey covered 2,000 Chinese residents. Sales of retail goods have remained tepid since the Covid-19 pandemic, up by just 3.5% last year, according to official data. The services sector, including tourism, sports and childcare, has seen faster growth at 6.2% last year. China started reporting services retail sales on a year-to-date basis in July 2023.

'Future of tourism'

Chinese cities have meanwhile stepped up their efforts to attract tourists, whether through short videos on social media, virtual reality experiences or elaborate light shows splashed across skyscrapers. Some cities, such as the panda hub of Chengdu, are starting to use drones for delivering food within scenic parks, or renting out robotic-powered hiking support, Dudarenok pointed out. "We're going to see basically a lot of what the future of tourism is going to look like, and China is testing that massively over this May day holiday," she said, noting that places that have invested a lot are seeing robust tourist numbers. Chengdu, for instance, claimed a 6.2% year-on-year increase in tourist trips over the holiday to 15.52 million. That's nearly three-fourths of the city's population of 21.4 million, as of 2023. Social media influencers, as well as word-of-mouth comments about cleanliness and safety are also helping Chinese cities attract foreign travelers, Huang said. Huang said his hostel primarily served international visitors prior to Covid, and the share of foreign guests has recovered modestly to about one-fifth of customers. Local visitors tend to concentrate their travel during public holidays, while trips by foreign tourists are more spaced out, he said. China has expanded its visa-free policies in the last two years to attract foreign tourists. Citizens of the U.S., U.K., Canada and more than 50 other countries can now stay in China for 10 days without a visa, while people from Japan, South Korea and several European countries can visit for up to 30 days. Inbound travel to China around the May Labor Day holidays rose by more than 40% from last year, according to Hostel World. The data showed Chongqing, Yangshou and Guilin surged in popularity versus Beijing and Shanghai.

Top TV picks on CNBC

Need to know

The U.S. and China are finally going to talk on trade. It's not a presidential call, but both sides confirmed that Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, Beijing's top official for China-U.S. economic and trade matters, will meet with his U.S. counterparts while visiting Switzerland later this week. Ten people died after four tourist boats capsized in southwest China's Guizhou province. Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing on Monday visited the site of the accident, which state media attributed to "sudden strong winds." China's National Health Commission is investigating a hospital scandal. The probe, involving a senior physician at a prestigious hospital in Beijing, stirred discussion on Chinese social media about the potential role of connections in obtaining highly sought-after healthcare positions. Alibaba's Taobao e-commerce site has joined the on-demand delivery fray. The company is rolling out same-day delivery of food, clothing and other products, just days after JD.com and food delivery company Meituan ramped up their competition in the space. Taobao claimed it received more than 10 million orders in one day.

In the markets

Chinese and Hong Kong stocks climbed Wednesday after the People's Bank of China and financial regulators announced sweeping plans to cut key interest rates as they strive to shore up growth. China will cut the seven-day reverse repurchase rates by 10 basis points to 1.4% from 1.5%. The central bank will also lower the reserve requirement ratio by 50 basis points. Mainland China's CSI 300 was up 0.44% while Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index  which includes major Chinese companies  rose 1.5% as of 10:30 a.m. local time. The CSI 300 has lost roughly 2.8% while the Hang Seng Index has gained over 14.6% so far this year. The benchmark 10-year Chinese government bond yield was slightly down at 1.63%. The offshore Chinese yuan strengthened 0.18% against the greenback to 7.2227.

Stock Chart Icon Stock chart icon The performance of the Shanghai Composite over the past year.

Coming up
Democrats turned up the pressure on President Donald Trump's cryptocurrency ventures this week and the fortune that he and his family are making off the efforts as a vote rolls forward on a key crypto bill.

Thursday's vote on the GENIUS ACT, a bill to establish federal rules for stablecoins, will be a test of how far the crypto lobby's influence goes after it heavily backed Trump's 2024 presidential campaign.

Even with limited power, Democrats are calling for probes into Trump-connected coins and backers, seeking financial records and blocking legislation.

On Capitol Hill Tuesday morning, California Rep. Maxine Waters, the top Democrat on the House Financial Services Committee, walked out of a hearing on digital asset allocation flanked by fellow Democrats, effectively shutting it down.

That same morning, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., sent letters announcing an initial inquiry into the Trump family's expanding crypto empire, calling the Trump meme coin dinner contest a "pay-for-play scheme."

Blumenthal, the ranking member of the Senate's Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, demanded records from Fight Fight Fight LLC.  the company behind the $TRUMP meme coin  and World Liberty Financial, a family-run crypto venture that recently announced plans to launch a stablecoin.

He called for documentation on ownership, revenue flows, and all communications with the White House, citing what he described as "unprecedented conflicts of interest and national security risks."

Last month, the project ran a promotion offering top $TRUMP holders a dinner with the president and a "VIP White House tour," a promise that sent the token's price soaring after weeks of decline.

"President Trump's financial entanglements to the $TRUMP coin, as well as the attempted use of the White House to host competitions to prop up the value of $TRUMP, represents an unprecedented, pay-to-play scheme to provide access to the Presidency to the highest bidder," Blumenthal wrote.

Roughly 80% of the $TRUMP token supply is controlled by the Trump Organization and affiliates, according to the project's website.

One of Blumenthal's letters was addressed to Bill Zanker, the entrepreneur behind Fight Fight Fight, which controls a large portion of the $TRUMP token supply.

With the White House and both chambers of Congress controlled by Republicans, Democrats have little ability to push a legislative agenda or to lead investigations into potential malfeasance. But they're betting that a coordinated effort to call out what they view as corruption in a formerly niche corner of the financial markets will resonate with a voter base that's already souring on the president's economic policies.
Two major Wall Street shops singled out Arista Networks as a buy, even as shares pull back in the wake of earnings. The cloud computing company on Tuesday narrowly topped LSEG first-quarter revenue estimates, but managed a solid beat on the bottom line. Arista earned 65 cents per share, excluding items, on revenue of $2 billion. Analysts predicted it would earned 59 cents per share on $1.97 billion in revenue. Shares of Arista have tumbled 18% in 2025, and were down more than 7% on Wednesday. ANET 1Y mountain ANET 1Y chart Goldman Sachs and Bank of America both reiterated their buy ratings on the stock. However, Goldman Sachs analyst Michael Ng lowered his 12-month target price to $115 from $130, citing uncertainty from tariffs in the latter half of the year. Ng's forecast represents a 27% upside for Arista. Ng expects Arista will continue to benefit from the artificial intelligence trade, which will be a catalyst for the stock. "ANET highlighted momentum in AI demand & reiterated its expectations to generate at least $750 mn in back-end AI switching revenue in 2025 across its four major AI cluster projects, with 3/4 already in production; the company expects to see strong pull through of front-end AI switching (~1:1) but acknowledged the difficulty in identifying what products are deployed in the front-end," he wrote. While tariff uncertainties certainly linger for the stock, most of Arista's production volume is in Mexico, which is compliant with the current U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement, or USMCA. Ng added that Arista's full-year outlook appears conservative given its positive momentum in the cloud computing business. Bank of America analyst Tal Liani also highlighted Arista's potential in cloud computing as a major tailwind. Liani's $130 price target corresponds to a potential 43% rally from Arista's Tuesday close. "Putting aside the tariff impact, we believe Arista proves repeatedly that it can successfully compete with white box switching and Nvidia's solutions, with a stable position within its key Cloud Titan customers, and a leading position with Baby Clouds and Enterprises," Liani wrote. Specifically, Arista's key cloud titan and hyperscaler customers, Meta and Microsoft, have announced plans to respectively increase capital expenditures spending by 70% and 44% this year. "For next year, we expect Meta to slow meaningfully but Microsoft should ramp its Ethernet back-end (AI) deployments, benefiting Arista and potentially offsetting some of Meta's rationalization," the analyst added.
People take photos in front of a giant Google logo at Google's Bay View campus in Mountain View, California on Aug 13, 2024 where the "Made by Google" media event was held today.

Nuclear developer Elementl Power said Wednesday it's signed an agreement with Google to develop three sites for advanced reactors. It's the latest example of tech giants teaming up with the nuclear industry in an effort to meet the vast energy needs of data centers.

Google will commit early-stage development capital to the three projects, although the exact terms of the deal remain private. Each site will generate at least 600 megawatts of power capacity, and Google will have the option to buy the power once the sites are up and running. The proposed locations remain private, but Elementl said Google's funding will be used for things like site permitting, securing interconnection rights to the transmission system, contract negotiations and other early-stage matters.

"Google is committed to catalyzing projects that strengthen the power grids where we operate, and advanced nuclear technology provides reliable, baseload, 24/7 energy," said Amanda Peterson Corio, global head of data center energy at Google.

"Our collaboration with Elementl Power enhances our ability to move at the speed required to meet this moment of AI and American innovation," she added.

Elementl Power, which was founded in 2022 as a nuclear power project developer, hasn't yet built any sites.

The company is currently technology agnostic, meaning it hasn't yet chosen what type of reactor it will use at its sites. Rather, when Elementl is ready to begin construction it will choose the reactor technology that's furthest along in development.

"Innovative partnerships like this are necessary to mobilize the capital required to build new nuclear projects, which are critical to deliver safe, affordable and clean baseload power and help companies advance their long-term net zero goals," said Chris Colbert, Elementl Power's chairman and CEO. Colbert was previously CFO, COO and chief strategy officer at NuScale Power , which is developing small modular reactors.

Colbert added that once the projects reach a final investment stage Elementl will raise capital from other sources  for example infrastructure funds  to actually build the projects. The company is aiming to add 10 gigawatts of nuclear to the grid by 2035.

In October, Google teamed up with small modular reactor company Kairos Power, pledging to buy power from the company's fleet of reactors. At the time, Google said the first reactor would enter service by 2030, with more coming online through 2035.

Earlier this year, China's artificial intelligence startup, DeepSeek, prompted concerns that the improved efficiency of emerging AI models may reduce the need to invest in the build-out of new power sources to support data centers. However, tech leaders such as Amazon and Nvidia have since said the need for baseload power is continuing to grow at a quick pace.

In April, Anthropic co-founder Jack Clark estimated 50 gigawatts of new power capacity will be needed by 2027 to support AI. That is the equivalent of about 50 new nuclear plants.
U.S. President Donald Trump delivers remarks at the White House in Washington, D.C., on April 2, 2025.

Stocks on Wall Street and beyond have been rocked by volatility in recent weeks, as U.S. President Donald Trump rolled out some tariffs, paused others, and ramped up duties on Chinese goods to unprecedented levels.

Strategists at the Bank of America shed light on where some of the capital flowing out of the U.S. may be heading.

According to their data analysis, U.S. equities saw an $8.9 billion outflow in the week to April 30. For every $100 inflow to American stocks since the 2024 presidential election, there had been a $5 outflow over the past three weeks, the investment bank's strategists said in a note to clients on May 1.

At the same time, European equities saw a $3.4 billion inflow, according to the Wall Street bank.

Meanwhile, Japanese equities saw a $4.4 billion inflow in the week to April 30  its biggest week of inflows since April 2024.

In a sign that investors were in a risk-taking mood, BofA said that cryptocurrencies and high yield bonds saw inflows of $2.3 billion and $3.9 billion in the past week, respectively. Gold and U.S. Treasury bonds collectively had $6 billion in outflows.
President Donald Trump has teased an upcoming announcement, and JPMorgan is telling investors to get bullish in the event that it swings the market higher. On Tuesday, the president disclosed during an Oval Office meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney that he plans to make a "very, very big announcement" prior to his trip to the Middle East next week. "We're going to have a very, very big announcement to make, like, as big as it gets, and I won't tell you on what," he said, adding that "it is really, really positive" and that "it'll be one of the most important announcements that have been made in many years about a certain subject." To get ahead of the announcement, which Trump said he'll make "either Thursday or Friday or Monday before we leave," investors should buy calls, specifically S & P 500 call options, JPMorgan said. Call options are contracts that give their owners the option to make an investment at a fixed price within a certain time frame. "It's worth hedging short-term upside risks in case it is, given other major catalysts over the next week, the potential for systematic strategy re-leveraging to reinforce an upside move, and the normalization of short-term implied volatility levels over the past few weeks," wrote Bram Kaplan, head of Americas equity derivatives strategy at JPMorgan, in a note dated Tuesday. Investors should be cautious, as the topic of Trump's announcement is unknown. In fact, the president said in the Oval Office meeting that he's "not necessarily saying it's on trade." To that point, it "may not turn out to be market moving," Kaplan warned. But Kaplan's thinking here is that there's a possibility that Tuesday's tease might be similar to the one Trump made right before the president announced a pause in the steep tariff rates for most countries for 90 days. Just hours before that reprieve sent the market on a historic swing upward , Trump said in a Truth Social post: "THIS IS A GREAT TIME TO BUY!!!" Investors who followed that advice consequently saw massive returns . "Over the next week, we have two other major catalysts that could move markets: the May FOMC meeting (May 7) and April CPI print (May 13)," Kaplan said. "Should markets rally on the back of any of these catalysts, the upside move could be reinforced by CTA [trend-following hedge funds] re-leveraging, since a few key momentum signals sit around ~5800 on the S & P 500."
Danish jewelry brand Pandora has warned of significant price increases across the affordable jewelry industry if U.S. President Donald Trump's proposed tariff hikes come into play following the White House's 90-day pause on the levies announced in April.

CEO Alexander Lacik told CNBC that current 10% levies on most U.S. imports were "manageable," but he noted that if tariffs were to revert to previously announced "reciprocal" rates, then it would be game changing for jewelry manufacturers.

"Most jewelers that are in the price segment where we operate, they all import from somewhere in Asia. So you could have an argument if these tariffs remain, then it's going to be more expensive for everybody that plays," Lacik told Charlotte Reed.

"Therefore we should expect that the consumer pricing will see some change to it," he added.

Pandora, known for its popular charm bracelets and silver jewelry, is heavily dependent on manufacturing in Asia, most notably Thailand but also Vietnam, India and China.

Those countries were hit on President Trump's April 2 "Liberation Day" tariff announcement with reciprocal tariffs ranging from 26% to 46%. That prompted to the company the following day to warn of a significant potential hit to group revenues, which it valued at around 1.2 billion Danish kroner ($182 million) per year.

President Trump later announced a 90-day pause and a lower 10% tariff rate for most countries except China, though it is currently unclear what rate countries will face once that pause expires in early July.

Asked what level of price rises consumers could expect if tariffs remain in place, Lacik said Pandora had modelled a number of scenarios but that the final figure was likely to be industry-led.
Below are highlights from an extended video interview that CNBC's Julia Boorstin conducted with Sud, in which the CEO weighed in on becoming a chief executive at 33, the competition across the disrupted media landscape, and her approach to getting things done as her responsibilities have grown and the stakes have gotten bigger. And her biggest life hack of all: getting enough sleep.

Sud's time at Vimeo was focused on helping creators get their stories out and that continues to inform her view of where streaming content and viewership is headed. "I really believe the future of entertainment is going to be free for consumers," Sud , who was named to the 2025 Changemakers list, tells CNBC. "The future of the internet is a lot more diversity in storytelling and audience tastes than reflected in the traditional Hollywood system today," she said.

Sud rose to the role of CEO at video streaming platform Vimeo, part of Barry Diller's media conglomerate IAC, at the age of 33, and took the company public in 2021. Now, she is the CEO of Fox Corp. 's free ad-supported streaming app Tubi, where she has overseen rapid growth. In her first full year as CEO (2024), monthly active users hit 80 million; it's now nearing 100 million. In February, it hosted the biggest streaming event of all, the Super Bowl.

During her childhood, Anjali Sud's father would put clips from Wall Street Journal articles about chief executive officers on her pillow for her to find when she went to sleep. The move might have been a bit presumptuous, Sud says, but the message that her father, an entrepreneur himself, was sending stayed with her: "I grew up with parents who believed I could be the person in that clip," she now says.

Chasing Netflix, or any competition, is no way to succeed

If you are trying to compete with Netflix or YouTube directly, you may be setting yourself up for failure. That was Sud's view when she was leading Vimeo and attempting to position it for success in the media marketplace. "You have to know your strengths and believe you are embarking on a strategy where you have the right to win," she said.

For Vimeo, the need to provide more space to more creators, and creators' need for more tools, drove the business. "I remember trying to convince people before the pandemic that companies would livestream town halls, and I would be told no over and over again," she recalled. "It's really important to not let the competition drive your strategy," she said.

While she says YouTube has, to date, probably taken the idea of enabling creators outside of the traditional Hollywood system the farthest, she doesn't think any company has fully succeeded in building the business model of taking content from a diverse slate of creators that does really well on social and enabling those creators to produce Hollywood-level content. And what Tubi is hearing from audiences is that they want to see this talent on bigger screens.

What is fundamental to developing the conviction for success is listening to and understanding customers  their needs and the problems they are trying to solve.

"Every strategy that wins in business has some element of that," she said.

This doesn't mean you can ignore the competition. "Your competition is your mirror," she said. "It helps you assess where to lean into strength, or where to differentiate ... what you are not going to do. ... But don't do things because others are doing them. That's never a good reason," she added.

How Amazon gets product out to market before it's even built

Sud was at Amazon back when e-commerce could be described as still in scaling mode as opposed to dominant mode. It's well known that Amazon hammers home the concept of customers coming first, and Sud said the company built many management principles around this core belief. One small practice related to this which Sud has taken with her is Amazon's approach to launching a new product.

The company starts with a practice that seems counter-intuitive: it writes a press release explaining the new product to the customer before the product exists. And then it "works backwards" from that moment, she said.

Amazon is also well known for a corporate culture that prioritizes internal debate, and Sud says that encouraging dissenting views and opinions in the pursuit of getting to the right answer is another key to innovation. In any area where the goal is innovation, there is "no playbook, no obvious answer," she says. As a result, if the internal culture isn't "really fighting it out a little bit to get to at a right answer, then your track record won't be as strong," she said.

"Build the culture where people see you won't get punished for speaking your mind," she says.

Being 'impatient' always worked at Barry Diller's IAC

While at IAC and on the way up to Vimeo CEO, she says the corporate management experience was somewhat like being thrown into the deep end of the pool as a method of learning to swim  in the most positive sense of that analogy, she quickly added.

IAC acted on a core belief that if you bet on talent over experience and give people opportunities but also "leave it to them to figure it out," then success will follow for individuals and their organizations.

That deep-end of the pool analogy was also enacted in another way at IAC: through a philosophy of being "impatient on execution and patient on vision," says Sud.

She learned both are possible at the same time. Leaders need a sense of urgency, to be constantly striving forward day-to-day on how to execute, but when it comes to vision never forget that great businesses are built over a long time.

"You can't give up when something doesn't go well. You can't hedge when it comes to the actual vision," she said.

Imposter syndrome is an 'every day' reality for CEOs

Leaders are often asked what they wish they had known earlier in their paths to success. For Sud, accepting that "imposter syndrome" will always be a part of the experience would have saved some time and effort.

"I spent so much time when I was younger; so much energy was wasted trying to show up as a certain kind of leader or trying to contort myself to be what I thought everyone would want me to be, and I wish I had just taken all that energy and just focused it on my job and myself," she said.

In fact, she said that did not happen until she became a CEO, and "had the privilege to be myself."

She also thinks it's not only important for the individual but is contagious for the organization. "People don't want to follow and don't rally behind leaders who aren't authentic," she said.

But the "imposter" feeling never goes away.

"I feel it every day, right now," she said. "I have always felt it and reframed it. ... Nobody's got it figured out. Nobody," she said.

Make the tradeoffs needed to get enough sleep

As a working mother, Sud says managing life and work is a constant struggle  and she concedes that she has a lot more help than many working moms  but she adds that there is "no better capital allocator, no one better equipped to manage scare resources," than a working mom.

"My bar for what is worth doing in every aspect of life gets higher and higher," she said.

One big part of life that Sud says contributes to all of her success is eight to nine hours of sleep every night.

"My big life hack is sleep," she said. "I have been doing it [8-9 hours per night] for a decade, and including through having kids and a career, and many people will say how on earth do you do that?"

In addition to the help Sud gets at home, she also makes some big daily sacrifices. "If I have to choose between working out or watching a show, I choose sleep. I take the tradeoffs. ... I choose sleep every single time and definitely took a hit to my social life," she said.

Having been a female CEO at a young age, Sud is intent on recreating the environment in which she was able to grow. "It made me want to reach out and have people on my team given that opportunity," she said, and she added there are examples of women on her team that have become two-time CEOs on their own now.

"It does cascade. When you are young and ambitious, pay attention to the people above you and their journeys and try to put yourself in the position of working at a company that has that philosophy. It will make things so much easier," she said.

Watch the video above to learn more about Sud's life and career and how she thinks about leadership and reaching successful outcomes.
Tesla Inc. (TSLA) is facing mounting challenges with recent declines in deliveries and revenue signaling weakening demand in key markets. Despite strong profitability and growth metrics, TSLA's sky-high valuation presents substantial downside risk. Coupled with stiff competition from Chinese EV makers eroding market share and market timing indicating a potential reversal, this creates an attractive opportunity for adding bearish exposure. Trade timing The timing for adding bearish exposure to TSLA is optimal, as the stock has recently rallied to its $300 resistance level, forming a double-top pattern. This technical set-up, combined with overbought conditions, suggests a potential reversal lower, with a downside target near $220, offering an attractive risk-to-reward profile for a bearish trade. TSLA trades at a substantial premium to its industry because of industry leading growth and profitability metrics, but it presents significant downside risks due to significant overvaluation and declining performance. Forward PE Ratio: 144x vs. Industry Average 11x Net Margin: 7% vs. Industry Average 3% Expected EPS Growth: 17% vs. Industry Average 10% Expected Revenue Growth: 13% vs. Industry Average 3% Bearish thesis Weakening Demand : Tesla's Q1 2025 deliveries fell 13% YoY to 336,681 vehicles, with a 37% YoY sales drop in Europe and a 15% YoY decline in the US, reflecting weak demand exacerbated by a brand crisis linked to CEO Elon Musk's political activities. Competitive Pressure : Stiff competition from Chinese EV makers is eroding Tesla's market share, which fell from 17.9% to 9.3% in Europe in Q1 2025, while high inventory levels signal oversupply amid declining demand. Options trade To capitalize on TSLA's potential downside, I'm selling a June 20, 2025 $275/$225 Put Vertical @ $16.63 Debit. This entails: Buying the June $275 put @ $22.63 Selling the June $225 put @ $6.00 The maximum reward is $3337 if TSLA is below $275 at expiration. The maximum risk is $1663 if TSLA is above $225 at expiration. The breakeven point for this trade is $258.37. View this Trade with Updated Prices at OptionsPlay This strategy positions you to benefit from TSLA's potential downside, leveraging its technical reversal, valuation, and competitive pressures to profit from selling premium with defined risk. With Tesla facing structural challenges in demand and market share, this put vertical offers a compelling opportunity to capitalize on a high-premium name DISCLOSURES: (None) All opinions expressed by the CNBC Pro contributors are solely their opinions and do not reflect the opinions of CNBC, NBC UNIVERSAL, their parent company or affiliates, and may have been previously disseminated by them on television, radio, internet or another medium. THE ABOVE CONTENT IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY . THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSITUTE FINANCIAL, INVESTMENT, TAX OR LEGAL ADVICE OR A RECOMMENDATION TO BUY ANY SECURITY OR OTHER FINANCIAL ASSET. THE CONTENT IS GENERAL IN NATURE AND DOES NOT REFLECT ANY INDIVIDUAL'S UNIQUE PERSONAL CIRCUMSTANCES. THE ABOVE CONTENT MIGHT NOT BE SUITABLE FOR YOUR PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES. BEFORE MAKING ANY FINANCIAL DECISIONS, YOU SHOULD STRONGLY CONSIDER SEEKING ADVICE FROM YOUR OWN FINANCIAL OR INVESTMENT ADVISOR. Click here for the full disclaimer. Correction: The maximum reward is $3337 if TSLA is below $275 at expiration. The maximum risk is $1663 if TSLA is above $225 at expiration. A previous version misstated the scenarios.
UBS is betting on Logitech going forward. The bank upgraded shares of the computer accessories manufacturer to buy rating from neutral. Its price target on Switzerland-listed shares of 80 Swiss francs implies upside of 26.1%. A similar gain on the U.S.-listed stock would take it to around $96.50. Logitech's U.S.-listed shares have slipped 7% this year, making them a relative underperformer to the S & P 500, which is down 4%. "The share price has come down already, reflecting investor uncertainties, and we look through some challenging quarters," analyst Joern Iffert wrote. "Margins and cash flows will remain on healthy levels, in our view, supported by pricing power in key products and optimized regional sourcing (away from China)." LOGI 1Y mountain LOGI 1Y stock Iffert pointed out that Logitech should be a beneficiary of gaming popularity among Generation Alpha consumers, who were born between 2010 and 2024. Approximately 94% of the generation play video games, marking a higher level of engagement versus previous generations, per UBS. "Consumer brands increasingly use gaming channels to connect to end consumers," Iffert added. "Gamers are more likely to buy brands that they have seen in a game, with 47% of Gen Alpha stating that they bought a product or service recommended by their favorite streamer. On top of that, Logitech is already taking steps to reduce its sourcing from China. The analyst said the company's recent internal reorganization to "better tackle the B2B business prospects" should soon yield fruit. Despite the upgrade, most analysts are neutral on the stock. Of the eight who cover Logitech, six rate it as a hold, LSEG data shows. Another two have buy ratings on shares. Logitech U.S. listed shares climbed more than 1% in the premarket after UBS' rating change.
U.S. President Donald Trump shakes hands with former U.S. Senator David Perdue during Perdue's swearing-in ceremony to be the new U.S. ambassador to China, at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 7, 2025.

President Donald Trump's pick for U.S. ambassador to China was sworn in on Wednesday, days before White House officials are set to meet with their Chinese counterparts for the first time since Trump announced his 145% tariffs.

"What timing ... what timing, only you could've picked this timing," Trump quipped from the White House at Republican former Sen. David Perdue's swearing in ceremony.

"I'm entrusting David to help manage one of America's most complex and consequential foreign relationships, and I know he'll do a fantastic job," Trump said of the former Georgia lawmaker.

"Say hello to [Chinese President Xi Jinping] when you're over there, please," Trump added.

Perdue assumes his diplomatic post days before high-stakes talks get underway in Switzerland between American and Chinese officials.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will meet with their Chinese counterparts in Geneva Saturday and Sunday.

Both Wall Street and Main Street are eager to see the talks tamp down the sky-high trade tensions between Washington and Beijing.

Perdue said that he is "glad to be [Trump's] man in China," during his Oval Office ceremony.
President Donald Trump said Wednesday that he is withdrawing his nomination of former Fox News medical contributor Dr. Janette Nesheiwat as U.S. surgeon general, a move that followed questions about her medical education and criticism by conservative gadfly Laura Loomer.

Trump, in a social media post, said he would nominate Dr. Casey Means for surgeon general.

The president said Nesheiwat will work at the Department of Health and Human Services with Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. "in another capacity."

Trump announced that Nesheiwat was no longer his nominee for surgeon general a day before she was set to appear for her confirmation hearing at the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.

She is the sister-in-law of Trump's former national security advisor Mike Waltz.

Trump removed Waltz from his post Thursday and said he was nominating him to become the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations.

Trump fired several National Security Council officials in early April after Loomer said she was unhappy with them. Waltz had defended the officials during a meeting in the Oval Office with Trump that Loomer attended.

Freelance writer Anthony Clark first raised questions about Nesheiwat's education claims in a post on Substack.

CBS News, citing records it reviewed, last week reported that Nesheiwat, who had said she had a degree from the University of Arkansas School of Medicine, actually earned her medical degree from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine, located in St. Maarten.

"A spokesperson for the University of Arkansas confirmed to CBS News she completed her residency through its family medicine program in Fayetteville, Arkansas, but did not obtain her medical degree there," the network reported.
Illustration of the China and U.S. flag on a central processing unit. Blackdovfx | Istock | Getty Images

Uncertainty  that was the theme during earnings season for the world's biggest semiconductor firms which are unclear on demand for their products as a result of changing U.S. tariff policy and export restrictions that have been place on China. U.S. President Donald Trump's "reciprocal" tariffs took effect in April though they were paused shortly after. The White House also exempted certain tech products such as smartphones and chips. However, the U.S. is investigating imports of semiconductor technology which could come under new duties. Meanwhile, Washington last month added more semiconductor products from Nvidia and AMD to a list of items that are restricted for export to China, building on Biden-era curbs. The changing tariff and China policy has caused consternation among executives at the world's largest chip companies with visible impacts on their busiensses already.

AMD on Tuesday said that it expects $1.5 billion in lost revenue thorugh the end of its fiscal year as a result of AI chip export curbs to China, despite topping earnings estimates for the first quarter. Super Micro issued disappointing guidance on Tuesday citing tariff and macroeconomic uncertainty. The company said it would not provide guidance for its fiscal year 2026 until "visibility" becomes clearer. The stock fell 4% in premarket trade. And Marvell said on Tuesday that it is postponing its previously scheduled investor day from June 10 to a "future date in calendar 2026." Shares of the firm fell 4.4% in premarket trade. "We have decided to postpone our investor day given the current uncertain macroeconomic environment," Matt Murphy, CEO of Marvell, said in a statement.

Clarity in 'short supply'

Semiconductor stocks have been under pressure this year amid the growing macroeconomic uncertainty and trade policies from the U.S. There is also concern about the demand for AI products even as technology giants like Microsoft and Amazon continue to commit billions of dollars to build data centers. The VanEck Semiconductor ETF , a basket of chip stocks, is down nearly 12% this year. And it's not just U.S. companies that are feeling the heat. Samsung said last month that "demand volatiltiy is expected to be quite high" as a result of tariff policy changes and macroeconomic uncertainty. "Due to the rapid changes in policies and geopolitical tensions among major countries, it's difficult to accurately predict the business impact of tariffs and countermeasures," a Samsung executive said on the earnings call. "There are a lot of uncertainties ahead of us."

watch now

Samsung is one of the world's largest memory chipmakers. "The semiconductor sector is grappling with a complex mix of demand signals and geopolitical headwinds," Ben Barringer, global technology analyst at Quilter Cheviot, told CNBC by email. Barringer said that Marvell's decision to postpone its investor day "adds a layer of uncertainty at a time when clarity is in short supply," while Super Micro's weak outlook also "raised eyebrows." "With macro uncertainty and export restrictions still looming large, the path ahead for chipmakers remains bumpy, even as underlying demand holds up in certain areas," Barringer added.

Nvidia CEO: 'Let us go race'

The U.S. chip industry has sought to show that it is leading in technology versus China and that it should be allowed to sell more product there. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang told CNBC on Tuesday that China will likely be a $50 billion artificial intelligence market in two-to-three years. "It would be a tremendous loss not to be able to address it as an American company. It's going to bring back revenues, it's going to bring back taxes, it's going to create lots of jobs here in the United States," Huang said.

watch now
Uber reported first-quarter results Wednesday that beat analysts' expectations for earnings, but fell shy of anticipated revenue growth for the quarter. The company's shares closed down 2.5%.

Here's how Uber did versus analysts' estimates compiled by LSEG:

Earnings per share: 83 cents vs. 50 cents expected.

83 cents vs. 50 cents expected. Revenue: $11.53 billion vs. $11.62 billion expected.

Revenue at the ride-hailing company grew about 14% in the first three months of 2025, up from $10.13 billion during the same period in 2024.

Uber also reported net income of around $1.78 billion or 83 cents per share, for the first quarter, up from a net loss of $654 million, or a loss of 32 cents per share, a year earlier.

Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi and CFO Prashanth Mahendra-Rajah said they expect gross bookings to reach between $45.75 billion and $47.25 billion during the current quarter, with adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization in the range of $2.02 billion to $2.12 billion for that period.

In April, the Federal Trade Commission sued Uber and accused the company of "deceptive billing and cancellation practices" around its subscription service called Uber One.

"It's a bit of a head-scratcher for us," Khosrowshahi told CNBC's "Squawk Box" on Wednesday.

He said that 60% of the company's gross bookings in its Uber Eats business come from Uber One members, and that the subscription service is growing quickly.

"The suit alleges that some people don't realize that they're signing up or cancellations are difficult, but I'd encourage you to go experience it yourself," Khosrowshahi said. "It's very, very simple. You take a couple of steps to be able to cancel if you want."

Uber's largest business segments, which include its ride-hailing business and food and grocery delivery service, saw bookings increase year over year.

Here are the key segment numbers:

Mobility (gross bookings): $21.18 billion, up 13% year over year

$21.18 billion, up 13% year over year Delivery (gross bookings): $20.38 billion, up 15% year over year

The company also said its "monthly active platform consumers," had grown to 170 million, up 14% from the first quarter of last year. Users booked around 3.04 billion "trips" during the first quarter of 2025, up 18% from the first quarter of 2024.

Uber told employees at the end of April that they would have to come into the office three days a week instead of two, including some remote staffers. The company also announced changes to its monthlong paid sabbatical benefit, raising the requirement from five years at the company to eight years.

Khosrowshahi defended the policy changes at a heated all-hands meeting last week, as CNBC previously reported.

"Our company is executing really well, but we need to be at our top of our game and that means people working together in the office," he told CNBC on Wednesday.

Uber has also been making a push into autonomous vehicles, or AV technology. Khosrowshahi said the company views AVs as "the single greatest opportunity ahead for Uber."

Uber allows app users to book robotaxi rides in some U.S. markets, or order food for delivery via autonomous vehicle in others.

Khosrowshahi said Uber reached an "annual run-rate" of 1.5 million autonomous vehicle trips.
Here are the biggest calls on Wall Street on Wednesday: Bank of America upgrades Advanced Micro Devices to buy from neutral Bank of America sees "multiple growth cylinders" for the stock following earnings on Tuesday. "AMD's Q1 beat and strong Q2 sales outlook ($7.4bn sales, 10% above our forecast, despite $700mn China headwind) addresses our pre-call concerns re China AI restriction headwinds and NVDA GPU competition." Goldman Sachs reiterates Rivian as neutral The investment bank says the stock is well positioned for the long term but that it's standing by its neutral rating following earnings on Tuesday. "We maintain our Neutral rating on the stock. We believe Rivian's technology and product set position it well for improved long-term profits, including by leveraging its electrical and electronic architecture plus software stack to grow in autonomy and services." Morgan Stanley reiterates Walmart as overweight Morgan Stanley says it's standing by the stock ahead of earnings on May 15. "While tariffs have increased uncertainty around 2FH26e earnings, WMT's long-term structural earnings drivers  eCommerce, automation, scale of purchasing  remain intact." BMO upgrades Albertsons to outperform from market perform BMO sees "valuation expansion" for the grocery chain. "We are raising our rating on shares of ACI to Outperform with a $25 target price. We believe ACI may see valuation expansion from low levels as investors seek cheap, defensive stocks in 2H25." UBS upgrades Logitech to buy from neutral UBS says the computer peripherals company is not immune to tariffs but that profit margins remain healthy. "Logitech will not be immune to initial tariff impacts and slowing macro/demand. However, the share price has come down already, reflecting investor uncertainties, and we look through some challenging quarters." Goldman Sachs reiterates Chevron as buy Goldman says the oil giant has "attractive long-term value." "While we are mindful of the more uncertain macro backdrop and note moderated share repurchase assumptions, we continue to see an attractive long-term value proposition in CVX shares and highlight the company's 5% dividend yield." Bank of America reiterates Alphabet as buy Bank of America says it's bullish on the company's advertising product, AI Max. "In a Blog post, Google announced the roll out of AI Max, a suite of 'targeting and creative enhancements' to search advertising." Redburn Atlantic Equities reiterates Nvidia as buy Redburn says the stock remains a top idea at the firm. " Nvidia is among our top picks in the semiconductor sector." Barclays reiterates Super Micro as equal weight Barclays says it's sticking with its equal weight rating following earnings on Tuesday. The company preannounced results last week. "We expect investors to more closely scrutinize forward guidance. For the June-Q, SMCI guided revenue in line with our model at $6B at the midpoint, however, [gross margin] guide of 10% was below our expectations with SMCI citing conservatism, competition and tariffs impact." Bank of America reiterates Datadog as buy The Wall Street bank says it's sticking with Datadog following earnings on Tuesday. "We believe the results are another data point that it is positioned to be a share gainer in a $50bn observability [total addresable market], driving long-term durable revenue growth." Needham resumes Super Micro as buy The firm resumed coverage of Super Micro Computer following earnings and said the worst is behind it. "With filing risks behind the company, along with an attractive valuation, we are stepping off the sideline and resuming coverage with a Buy. " Truist upgrades Constellation Brands to buy from hold Truist says shares of the beer and wine company are attractively valued. "Our recommendation is based on our belief that: 1) Investor cynicism on alcohol consumption is too high, 2) Investor sentiment on STZ has bottomed, and 3) the company's [free cash flow] is underappreciated by investors at the current valuation." Cantor Fitzgerald downgrades Marvell to neutral from overweight Cantor says it doesn't like Marvell management delaying its investor day. "We had hoped to hear about new potential wins at the coming Investor Day but with mgmt delaying the event, we suspect there is not too much good news to share." Bank of America upgrades Wynn to buy from neutral The Wall Street firm says it's bullish on the opening of a new Wynn property in the Middle East. "We are upgrading shares of Wynn Resorts (WYNN) to Buy from Neutral. Why now? The key catalyst is the opening of Wynn Al Marjan Island in early 2027, the first major integrated casino resort in the Middle East. We think this development will increasingly factor into investor expectations and underwriting over the next 12-18 months." Bank of America upgrades Honeywell to buy from neutral The firm says HON shares are undervalued. "Following solid, beat-and-raise 1Q25 earnings, we upgrade shares of Honeywell to Buy from Neutral and raise PO to $250 from $210. Honeywell is one of the most discounted names in our coverage on a terminal growth basis." Bank of America reiterates Arista Networks as buy Bank of America says it's standing by Arista following earnings on Tuesday. "We remain positive on management's ability to execute, the company's technological differentiation, product positioning, and its [total addressable market] growing to $60bn by 2027." Loop upgrades Louisiana-Pacific to buy from hold Loop says the building materials company is well positioned to "navigate near-term macro uncertainties." "We are upgrading LPX to Buy from a Hold rating and maintaining our $110 PT after the company increased its FY25 siding guidance after a healthy 1Q25 beat with broad-based demand strength across end markets."


Sivaramakrishnan Ganapathi, Vice Chairman & MD of Gokaldas Exports , said the India- UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) opens up a major growth opportunity for Indias apparel exports. With the removal of tariffs, India can now compete on equal terms with countries like Bangladesh and even gain an edge over China.I see this as almost a billion-dollar opportunity for India, he said, referring specifically to incremental gains in the apparel segment.Currently, Gokaldas Exports earns about 250 crore annually from the UK, which is roughly 5% of its revenue. Ganapathi expects this contribution to rise sharply, stating, We can double because its off a small base.The FTA brings India at par with Bangladesh on tariffs and offers a 12% cost advantage over China, which is expected to make Indian apparel more competitive in the UK market.Ganapathi explained that Bangladeshs earlier edge came from duty-free access, but with India now matching that, more orders could shift to Indian suppliers. Additionally, Chinas $1 billion worth of cotton garment exports to the UK presents an opportunity for India, which now enjoys a cost edge in that space.To capitalise on this expected demand, Gokaldas Exports is expanding capacity with three new factories under development. Ganapathi believes larger players with capacity will benefit most from this tailwind.While the FTA is expected to improve profitability through tariff savings, he cautioned that it all gets competed away at some point. The company expects the real impact of the FTA to be felt from the second half of FY26, as ratification and customs implementation are completed.On the other hand, Ganapathi flagged challenges in the US market, which still contributes over 80% of the companys revenue. Due to tariff uncertainties and fears of an economic slowdown, brands delay orders and request temporary discounts. There is a dialogue going on across the supply chain for some discounts for a 90-day period, he said, adding that many customers are holding back until there is clarity.The market capitalisation of Gokaldas Exports is around6,803.61 crore. Its shares have gained close to 15% in the past year.For the entire interview, watch the accompanying video


PM Narendra Modi's visit to Norway, Croatia and the Netherlands postponed: Sources pic.twitter.com/j8TsHkBbuD

 ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has postponed his scheduled visit to Norway, Croatia, and the Netherlands later this month amid escalating tensions with Pakistan following a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, reported ANI, citing sources.The cancellation comes hours after Indian armed forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' early Wednesday, targeting nine known terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.The missile strikes, which included key Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba strongholds in Bahawalpur and Muridke, were in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack last month that killed 26 tourists.Earlier today, Modi chaired a Union Cabinet meeting and will lead a session of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to review the evolving situation. The CCS is also expected to pass a resolution on the overnight military operation.
After announcing in February that Skype would be discontinued, Microsoft has officially killed off the once-popular communications platform. Users accessing any of Skypes services will now be encouraged to use Microsoft Teams instead.

Microsoft originally bought Skype for $8.5 billion in 2011 to replace its own Windows Live Messenger platform. Skype was founded in 2003 by Niklas Zennstrom and Danish Janus Friis.

Skype quickly became known as the communications platform that popularized video calls. But after Microsofts purchase, the software slowly but surely lost users as video calls became increasingly available on more platforms.
The USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a public health alert for several potato chip products containing pork cracklings (chicharron) illegally imported from Colombia.

Affected products include various sizes and flavors of De Todito and GOLPE CON TODO SABOR LIMON mixed chips, distributed to retailers nationwide.

Although no illnesses have been reported, consumers are urged not to eat these products and to discard them or return them to the place of purchase.

The U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service is issuing a public health alert for potato chip products containing chicharron (pork cracklings) that were imported from the Republic of Colombia. Colombia is ineligible to export meat products to the United States.

FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that these products should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the products are no longer available for purchase.

The mixed bags of potato chips containing chicharron were imported between August 2024 and March 2025. The following products are subject to the public health alert, regardless of the product date

270-g. plastic bag containing six 45-g. foil bags of De Todito NATURAL mixed chips with CHICHARRON AMERICANO JACKS, Margarita, and NATU CHIPS.

165-g. foil bags containing De Todito NATURAL mixed chips with CHICHARRON AMERICANO JACKS, Margarita, and NATU CHIPS.

270-g. plastic bag containing six 45-g. foil bags of De Todito BBQ mixed chips with CHICHARRON AMERICANO JACKS, Margarita, and NatuChips.

165-g. foil bags containing De Todito BBQ mixed chips with CHICHARRON AMERICANO JACKS, Margarita, and NatuChips.

165-g. foil bags containing De Todito LIMON mixed chips with CHICHARRON AMERICANO JACKS, Margarita, TOSTITOS, and NATU CHIPS.

270-g. plastic bag containing six 45-g. foil bags of De Todito LIMON mixed chips with CHICHARRON AMERICANO JACKS, Margarita, TOSTITOS, and NATU CHIPS.

140-g. foil bags containing GOLPE CON TODO SABOR LIMON mixed chips with RIZADAS, PLATANOS, and Chicharron Fred.

Nationwide distribution

The products subject to the public health alert do not bear any import marks on the labels. These items were shipped to distributors in Florida and New York and retail locations nationwide.

The problem was discovered when FSIS was performing routine surveillance activities at two retailers and found meat products from Colombia that are not eligible to be exported to the U.S.

There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an illness should contact a healthcare provider.

FSIS is concerned that some products may be in consumers pantries. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.
Texas, Wyoming and South Dakota are the three states with the highest share of uninsured children under 6 years old.

Massachusetts, Washington and California are the three states with the lowest share of uninsured children.

Proposals to cut Medicaid would leave millions of more children uninsured.

Some states are dealing with higher rates of uninsured children, a situation that may worsen if proposed cuts to federal health programs go through.

The percentage of uninsured children under 6 years old ranged from as little as 1% to as much as nearly 9% among U.S. states in 2023, according to the latest U.S. Census data compiled by pediatric genetic testing company Fore Genomics.

That compares with nearly 5% of children under 6 who are uninsured in the entire U.S., who total more than 1 million.

Texas had the highest share of uninsured children under 6 years old, with 8.9%, followed by Wyoming (8.6%), South Dakota (7.6%) and Arizona (7.1%) as the rest of the five worst states for uninsured children.

On the other hand, Massachusetts had the lowest share of uninsured children under 6 years old, with 1.2%, followed by Washington (2.3%), California (2.5%), North Dakota (2.6%) and New Jersey (2.6%) as the rest of the five best states for having insured children.

Uninsured children vary by state due to various factors, including economic conditions and state programs and funding for health insurance.

Families with uninsured children should consider the federal government's Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), which provides coverage through Medicaid and other CHIP programs, said Matt Pelo, founder and CEO of Fore Genomics, to ConsumerAffairs.

The CHIP program can help families whose incomes disqualify them from from Medicaid and there is the benefit of being able to apply during any month of the year, unlike adults, he said.

"Some families are unaware that these programs could provide comprehensive coverage for their children at a low cost," Pelo said.

Are more children uninsured?

The number of uninsured children has recently grown.

Despite the uninsured rate falling overall for Americans, the number of uninsured children, defined as under 19 years old due to Census data collection, grew to 5.4% in 2023 from 5.1% in 2022, according to Georgetown University's Center for Children and Families.

That is equal to around 223,000 more children who are uninsured, Georgetown said.

Georgetown said just three states saw an improvement in their child uninsured rate  Colorado, Kentucky and North Dakota  but most states had their uninsured rate go up, particularly in New Mexico, South Carolina, Alabama, Louisiana, Washington and Texas.

More children left uninsured if cuts go through

Proposals to cut Medicaid by as much as $880 billion over 10 years or more would leave even more children uninsured.

Fourty-one states, including Washington D.C., have been expanding Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, but federal funding for that expansion would be taken away, leaving around 20 million people without coverage, said Adam Searing, an associate professor at Georgtown University, in a blog post.

"This level of cuts to Medicaid is unprecedented and if enacted would mean tens of millions of children, parents, seniors, people with disabilities and working families would lose access to affordable health care," he said.
It would take too long to recite this nominees name. Better cut it

A couple weeks ago, Brazil announced that Im Still Here would not be eligible for top honors at that countrys equivalent of the Oscars. The reason was that its so significantly better than any other movie in contention, it wouldnt be fair to force them all to compete with it.

A few days after that announcement, the organizers of that awards show said theyd changed their minds, which is good because this was surely the stupidest reason anyone had every been disqualified for an award, going back to the beginning of time. Still, if we do ever assign an award for Dumbest Reason a Movie Couldnt Get an Award, we have quite a few nominees to choose from.

5 The Dark Knight The Best Original Score category at the Academy Awards trips people up because of that word original. Every so often, some seemingly worthy movie score is revealed not to be original after all. Dune: Part Two was recently deemed ineligible for an Oscar because it shared too much with Dune: Part One, and The Godfather was removed from consideration because composer Nino Rota had previously used some of that score in an Italian movie. Don't Miss So, since you know were about to talk about The Dark Knight, you might be thinking that it was disqualified for using themes from Batman Begins. No, that wasnt it. The Academy said The Dark Knight was ineligible because too many people worked on it. In fact, theyd previously disqualified Batman Begins for the same reason. Along with Hans Zimmer and James Newton Howard, the score credited three other composers, and rather than nominate them all as a team, the Academy decided it couldnt nominate any of them. Warner Bros. Why not just let the composers fight among themselves to see which gets the nomination? This decision had gone under the radar with Batman Begins but attracted more attention ahead of the 2009 ceremony. So, the Academy said theyd now remove the rule and declare The Dark Knight to be eligible. Then they went and didnt nominate it anyway. Advertisement

4 Roma Sometimes, a movie that campaigns for Best International Feature Film at the Oscars turns out to be ineligible because it contains too much English. That happened to the Nigerian film Lionheart from a few years back, and this can be a bit confusing because the category is called Best International Feature Film, not Best Foreign Language Film. It used to be called Best Foreign Language Film right up until 2020, which was the year Lionheart was in contention. The name change might make it seem like theyd dropped the foreign language requirement, but they had not. Weirder is the Golden Globes. Until 2021, they had a rule saying that nominees in the top categories had to be in English. That meant that Roma was ineligible for Best Motion Picture  Drama. That also meant it was ineligible for Best Motion Picture  Musical or Comedy, but it probably wasnt going to get that anyway. Advertisement Espectaculos Filmicos El Coyul Not many people know about the Golden Globes We speak AMERICAN policy. No one has offered up a good reason for this rule. With Best International Film, the foreign language requirement aims to honor films that the top category otherwise might overlook, but everyone should be allowed to try for best of the best. The Golden Globes finally got rid of the rule a year later when it cost Minari a nomination. Theyll presumably still keep giving the awards to the wrong movies, but not for this reason.

3 A Place in the World Best International Feature Film really is a weird category. Its not like the other awards. Each country is allowed to submit just one movie for the year, and the award is given to the country, rather than to the people who made the movie. In 1992, the Oscars nominated A Part in the World, from Uruguay. But afterward, they discovered that it wasnt a Uruguayan film at all. It had been made in Argentina. So, the Academy now stripped it of its nomination. They didnt nominate it as an Argentinian film. They unnominated it altogether. Advertisement Advertisement Transmundo Films Yes, unnominated is a word. Argentina had already submitted a film that year, The Dark Side of the Heart. Since The Dark Side of the Heart didnt get a nomination, you might think the Academy could now nominate A Part in the World in its place, but they did not. As for Uruguay, they had never submitted a movie before, and they wouldnt try again for another decade.

2 1776 William Daniels, whom you surely know best as Mr. Feeny from Boy Meets World, starred as John Adams in 1776. Before it was a movie, it was a play on Broadway, again with William Daniels in the lead role. The Tonys told him that he was ineligible for their Best Actor award for the play, but he could submit for Best Supporting Actor. Thats confusing because John Adams is the main character, and Daniels was the lead actor. But on the playbill, the production had put his name (and every other cast name) below the name of the play, and according to Tony rules, which have since changed, the leads name had to always be on top. Otherwise, theyre not the lead. Advertisement Columbia Pictures This ones the movie poster. His names not on top here either. The next time you see some movie poster that puts the name Dwayne Johnson right above the image of Dakota Johnson and the name Dakota Johnson right above the image of Dwayne Johnson (this being the acclaimed biopic Johnson & Johnson, chronicling the rise of Johnson & Johnson), thats no slipup. Complex rules dictate where names go, and you dont get to ignore those just for the sake of aesthetics or logic.
Stand-up superstar and fan-favorite Saturday Night Live host Nate Bargatze is about as unlikely an author as they come, considering that the Nashville native once complained that every book is just the most words.

The throughline of Bargatzes lauded career in comedy is that, despite his slow monotone voice and his insistence that intellectual pursuits have never been for him, the comedian has a much sharper mind than what his stage persona would suggest. Like many comedians, Bargatze mines ample material from what he feels to be his own educational shortcomings, but for a man who famously dropped out of community college, his literary rigor has significantly improved since those early school day mornings dissuaded him from academic endeavors

Don't Miss

Today marks the release of Bargatzes first book, the self-deprecating Big Dumb Eyes: Stories from a Simpler Mind. During the publicity tour for his collection of reflections, Bargatze spoke at the 31st annual A Celebration of Reading summit in front of the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation, telling the esteemed group of Texas educators, Reading is just a hard thing. I really do want to do it. I love the idea of it.

During the speech, Bargatze read anecdotes from Big Dumb Eyes and lamented that he didnt have such an organization as the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy when he was developing his non-reading habits, telling the laughing crowd, "I probably couldve used some of the help.

In an interview with USA Today at the event, Bargatze admitted that he is as surprised as his fans at the fact that he is now a published author after mocking his own reading habits onstage for years. I never really thought Id be writing a book, Bargatze said of his burgeoning literary career, warning fans not to expect War and Peace from him on his first try. Were not a book thats better than anybody. Were the one that just sits there, and its a fun read. And then after us you go back to the books that youre actually going to learn something from.

And, as Bargatze revealed on a recent TODAY appearance, hes following through on one of his most unusual literary stances: Big Dumb Eyes features several completely blank pages for readers to take a quick break from the whole reading thing, just as Bargatze always wanted from his books. I told them when we were writing it, I said, We have to put blank pages in it, Bargatze recalled of the conversation he had with Grand Central Publishing. And most publishers, they disagree with that. But I stuck true!

Advertisement

I had someone ask me, they thought I was doing a kids book for some reason, Bargatze said of his improbable authorship. I think my book reads like a kids book.

Clearly, that person made the mistake of assuming that Bargatzes Southern drawl and constant digs at his own intelligence indicated that the comedian actually is as simple as the title of his book would suggest. However, for all Bargatzes self-deprecation, only a brilliant mind could craft the kind of comedy that made Bargatze a star  and, if Big Dumb Eyes was a kids book, those blank pages would have pictures.
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.
If the Labour Party is good at one thing, it is tolerating weak and ineffective leaders.

As an MP and former transport minister during the final days of New Labour, I couldnt believe that Gordon Brown had been allowed to remain in charge so long.

Like many of my colleagues in the party, I knew that if Brown led us into the 2010 election, it would spell the end of everything wed spent more than a decade working towards. And, sure enough, it did  with David Cameron marching in to No 10.

Yet Labour didnt learn.

In 2015, my erstwhile party elected Jeremy Corbyn as leader: a role he clung on to for five lamentable years.

Now Labour are in power  and, to my shame and horror, theyre at it again.

If his first ten months in office have taught us anything, it is that Keir Starmer simply isnt up to the job of being party leader  let alone Prime Minister.

The country is in profoundly poor shape with the economy on its knees and the borders as porous as ever.

Labour MP Tom Harris with former primer minister Tony Blair

The governing party is imploding, with senior MPs warning me privately that Starmer has lost the confidence of vast swathes of the parliamentary cohort after unpopular benefits cuts.

With his party polling at just 21 per cent, the writing is on the wall for the beleaguered former lawyer. Some are born to lead, others to serve. Starmer, for all his naked ambition, is one of the latter.

And, for Labour, the future looks bleak indeed.

When I joined Labour as an idealistic 20-year-old in Ayrshire, I had seen first-hand the devastating poverty and civil unrest that, whatever benefits they brought elsewhere in the country, Margaret Thatchers reforms had wreaked on my home town.

I believed Labour truly represented the working class.

Forty years on, I am appalled at how my party has changed. The self-inflicted crisis engulfing Starmers administration risks not only turfing him out of office but leaving Labour out of power for a generation or longer.

That may sound extraordinary for a government elected on a loveless landslide less than a year ago, but these are uniquely febrile times.

As I saw myself with Gordon Brown, no politician wants to give up the top job. But I firmly believe that Starmer has to go  and go now. Not just for the good of his party, but the health of our nation.

After all, Starmer is entirely to blame for this mess thanks to his poor politics and even poorer judgment.

We see these, firstly, with immigration  perhaps the biggest issue for the British electorate. Starmer appeared to recognise that during the election campaign last year, pledging to smash the gangs of people-smugglers and stem illegal migration.

Yet, since taking power, he has shelved the Rwanda plan  still the best option on the table, as Donald Trumps reported enthusiasm for it shows  and failed to provide anything approaching an effective alternative to its clear deterrent effect.

Meanwhile, small boat crossings have hit new record highs  with more than 11,000 arrivals in just the first four months of this year.

No wonder the partys already paying the price.

Chancellor Rachel Reevess floundering crackdown on non-doms is clearly proving a direct impediment to her own alleged growth agenda, says Mr Harris

Keir Starmer is entirely to blame for this mess thanks to his poor politics and even poorer judgment. Now, for Labour, the future looks bleak indeed, he adds

Last week, Reform  in my view, essentially a single-issue protest party on immigration  swept to multiple victories at the expense of both Labour and the Tories.

Not only did Labour lose 198 local councillors, but it also surrendered the symbolically significant Runcorn and Helsby seat by just six votes to Nigel Farages upstart party. Considering Labour won the constituency in July with a 14,700-vote majority, the swing is almost unprecedented.

And yet, alarming as this should be, senior Labour figures are still refusing to see sense. On Sunday, former transport secretary Louise Haigh argued that the way to beat Reform was, bizarrely, to hike taxes even further.

What utter nonsense. Voters are visibly furious at Starmers total unwillingness to get a grip on immigration  and that includes the partys traditional working-class base.

Now, as the Financial Times reported yesterday, once-loyal trade union members are turning to Reform  comically epitomised by Reforms deputy leader Richard Tice posing last month in the Commons in a Save Our Steel trade union badge.

I dont believe for a second that Reform has the interests of working people at heart. But, as Louise Haighs ill-thought intervention suggests, Labour clearly doesnt, either.

If you were wondering who the party is actually for now, the answer is obvious  the chattering classes of north London literary salons.

Yet Labours problems run deeper still. When I was an MP in the early 2000s, I remember Tony Blair and then-chancellor Gordon Brown seriously considering levying taxes on non-doms as well as making cuts to the winter fuel allowance. But they did what sensible politicians do. They ran the numbers and realised that neither policy would materially affect the Exchequer, however much attacking non-doms might delight the far-Left of the party.

Fast forward 20 years and Starmer is ploughing on with both these avaricious, economically deranged schemes.

His cuts in winter fuel allowance have haemorrhaged support for his government, while Chancellor Rachel Reevess floundering crackdown on non-doms  which analysts have admitted could cost the Treasury as much as 12billion  is clearly proving a direct impediment to her own alleged growth agenda. Likewise, her rise in capital gains tax is now expected to leave her with a 23billion black hole.

And then theres the small matter of the European Union. I led the campaign for Brexit in my native Scotland so, naturally, I was pleased with the outcome of the 2016 referendum. Even most reasonable Remainers now appreciate the best thing for the country is to accept Brexit and make the best of it.

Indeed, Starmer previously promised to accept the peoples wishes, should he ever rise to power. However, as soon as he stepped over the threshold in Downing Street, he got on the phone to Brussels. His covert Rejoin agenda will supposedly come to fruition on May 19 at a reset summit between the UK and the EU.

Starmer is understood to be hoping for much closer ties with Brussels  notably on trade and security.

Whatever his protestations, as the man who openly backed a second referendum as Corbyns Brexit spokesman in 2019, this is clearly a step back into the Brussels sphere of influence.

If the Prime Minister thinks repairing our tattered social fabric means re-opening the EU question, hes even more incompetent than I thought.

In many ways, Starmer has become a victim of circumstance. He limped into No10 last July with a colossal majority courtesy of Tory incompetence rather than Labour excellence  receiving the lowest vote share of any Prime Minister since the Second World War. He wasnt popular when he walked into No 10. And hes even more unpopular now. He has to go.

The only question that remains is who should succeed him. While I hold no personal ill-will towards Rachel Reeves, her position will be untenable should Starmer step down. Not only has she courted controversy thanks to the exaggerations on her CV, but her blighted record in No 11 is too tightly bound to Starmers.

To my mind, the obvious choice is Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who tells people what they need to hear rather than what they want.

Despite his own past involvement with the pro-trans charity Stonewall, Streeting has vocally backed the Supreme Court ruling that trans women are not women.

Hes also been admirably honest about the need for the private sector within the NHS  a fact that lesser politicians would have shied away from.

Regardless, Starmers days are numbered  and the truth is that I suspect he knows it too.
So now we know. Keir Starmers response to the drubbing he and his party received in Thursdays local elections will not be a reverse on winter fuel. Or a clear and decisive response to concerns about spiralling immigration. Or an acknowledgment of growing fury at the mad dash to net zero.

Instead, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom has decided to turn squarely to face the British people, raise two fingers, and deliver a simple and concise message: Screw you.

That is the only rational way to interpret how Starmer has opted to reply to the historic rebuff handed to the Government last week. Not with conciliation, or contrition. But undisguised contempt.

When I read his pledge to go further and faster I thought it was just the usual boiler-plate politicians trot out in the wake of bad election results, before embarking on the inevitable screeching U-turn. Not Sir Keir. He really means it. He genuinely is going to ignore the visceral anger of the voters, and continue to ram the cold, congealed gruel of Starmerism down their throats.

As the working men and women of County Durham, Lancashire, Doncaster, Staffordshire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire and Kent were marching to the polls to hand Nigel Farage and Reform control of their local councils for the first time in history, its now clear how the Prime Minister was spending his own time. Sitting in his office in Downing Street, putting the finishing touches to a deal that will make it easier for workers from Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata to travel to the UK and take those peoples jobs.

Over the last month, as they forlornly traipsed the local and by-election doorsteps, Labour Cabinet Ministers, MPs and activists found themselves berated by loyal Labour voters. Anger at the winter fuel cut. Anger at the betrayal of the WASPI women. Anger at the axing of benefits from those battling MS and Parkinson's.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has decided to turn squarely to face the British people, raise two fingers, and deliver the simple and concise message Screw you', writes Dan Hodges

Their party leaders reaction? To deliver a tax cut for hard-grafting Indians.

Its political insanity. What does Keir Starmer think hes doing?

Actually, thats the point. The Prime Minister isnt thinking. Punch-drunk from the barrage of blows he has taken since entering office last July, he is now operating solely on some form of liberal muscle-memory. Deploying platitudes and policies like a member of the zombified, progressive undead.

Take his doubling down  no tripling down  over the rape gangs. Not content with refusing a national inquiry, then cynically sabotaging the handful of local investigations that were putatively being established, he has now opted to throw in his lot with those who claim the whole issue is being manipulated by his political opponents.

Asked yesterday whether he agreed with Shadow Leader of the House Lucy Powell the rape gangs were being weaponised, Starmers spokesman concurred. Its obviously disappointing for people to do so. But the Prime Ministers focused on taking the action that is needed to deliver for victims rather than focused on political scoring, he replied.

Just how out of touch do you have to be as a prime minister and a politician to witness Reforms turquoise wave sweeping all before it, then conclude I know what the British people want. They want me to smear and belittle anyone who raises the gang rape of thousands of working-class girls and women? Out of touch, maybe, or so utterly cynical that he thinks he can weaponise the issue himself for his own political advantage .

This morning, the scale of Sir Keirs rejection at the hands of the electorate was confirmed by a new opinion poll. Reform are on 29 points, and climbing. Labour 7 points behind, and falling. The Tories slowly but steadily sliding towards oblivion, only one point ahead of the Lib Dems on 17.

Yes, the next election is years away. Yes, Nigel Farage and his army of new councillors are about to face a fresh and unparalleled wave of scrutiny.

But the British people are now being treated with open disdain by their Prime Minister. And it cannot carry on.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and Greater Lincolnshire Mayor Andrea Jenkyns celebrating their party's historical local election victories on May 2, 2025

UK Business secretary Jonathan Reynolds with Indian commerce minister Piyush Goyal during trade talks between the two countries. The talks 'saw No.10 ordering Britain's trade negotiators to capitulate to India's demands', writes Hodges

There was a telling moment in the wake of the announcement of yesterdays Indian trade deal when Starmers backbenchers were dispatched to defend the plan. Mike Tapp, recently elected Labour MP for Dover, tweeted in fine Trumpian style: There is no negative story to tell about the fantastic trade deal, yet the media have lapped it up. This is a standard tax agreement we already have with over 50 countries.

Tapp and his colleagues genuinely dont get it. Thats precisely the point. It is indeed the standard tax agreement. The type of agreement that, over the past 30 years, has thrown open the doors to foreign labour, seen migration soar and left British workers to the tender mercies of globalisation.

Labour werent elected last July because people wanted a continuation of the status quo. They were elected on a promise of change. Only last month Keir Starmer declared globalisation had run its course, dispatching one of his aides to brief the media: The world has changed, globalisation is over and we are now in a new era.

Again, it was just another empty promise, and an example of the Keir Can-Can. A knee-jerk reaction to Trumps tariffs, quickly followed by another knee-jerk reaction to the latest gloomy growth forecasts, which saw No.10 ordering Britains trade negotiators to capitulate to Indias demands.

But whether the Prime Minister likes it or not, change is coming. The working men and women of Britain are going to see to it.

Keir Starmer may retain his thinly disguised contempt for the electorate. He may genuinely believe he knows best, and that if he faces down their fury, and carries on regardless, in time his Indian trade deal, and other progressive policy initiatives will come to be lauded.

Well, good luck with that. Because I was out on those doorsteps last week. And the people I was talking to arent kidding around any more.

They do not want their Government to go further and faster. They want it to come to a screeching halt, and for the car to be thrown into reverse.

They want immigration ended, not fuelled by tax cuts for foreign workers. They want action on the rape gangs, not smears and slurs against those who highlight them. They want an end to policies that see the poorest in society penalised for the blunders of the wealthy and the powerful. And they want to see the back of an economic model that has them toiling harder and harder to make ever greater profits for the global rich.

Keir Starmer has opted to respond to the local elections by sticking two fingers up to the British people. Hed better not be surprised when they respond in kind.
India and Pakistan are lobbing hardware at each other once again. And it should terrify us all. In the wars between Israel and Islamist militants, or Ukraine and Russia -brutal and bloody as they may be - there is only one nuclear-armed belligerent. Unfair perhaps, but it precludes the possibility of total annihilation.

Here, however, we have two such powers.

India and Pakistan have long understood each others nuclear doctrine. Both operate under the simple concept of Mutually Assured Destruction, with its apt acronym of MAD: if you launch nukes at a nuclear-armed state, you simply kill yourself, more than likely, and take a chunk of the world with you.

The concept is so clear and the cost so utterly devastating that even a cave-dwelling jihadi can understand it.

But the risk of misreading enemy intentions or of miscommunication, both endemic in conflict, is real. I have spent years studying Irans nuclear programme and the surrounding international non-proliferation architecture. And though we may have largely forgotten about the global nuclear threat, it remains acute.

No more so than between these two nations.

Hindu India and Muslim Pakistan were founded simultaneously almost 80 years ago. Ripped from the womb of the pre-partition Indian state, they are conjoined twins who have loathed each other since birth.

Pakistani security forces stand guard after the Bilal Mosque was hit by an Indian strike in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir

The aftermath of the Indian strike on the Bilal Mosque today

A loathing that persists, and worsens over time, because it is congenital.

And this is not a squabble between two competing elites. The hatred infests Indians and Pakistanis throughout their respective societies, from the wealthy political and mercantile classes to its ubiquitous street-hawkers.

After the deadly attack upon tourists a fortnight ago that killed 26 in Indian-administered Kashmir, the countrys prime minister Narendra Modi threatened to pursue the terrorists responsible to the ends of the Earth.

Pakistan has said retaliatory strikes at nine different locations in the early hours of today by the Indian air force have in turn killed 26. India insists it targeted terrorist infrastructure.

What comes next is critical.

Indias response, despite accidentally killing several civilians, has so far been reasonably measured, in keeping with the so-called surgical strikes approach it takes to whacking terrorists.

Now, though, Pakistan must respond to what it has called an act of war. The people are angry. The army wants blood. One general has called Kashmir our jugular  the sort of bald language that is pregnant with danger. Any sense of perspective is being lost.

After the deadly attack upon tourists a fortnight ago, the countrys prime minister Narendra Modi threatened to pursue the terrorists responsible to the ends of the Earth

Activists burn tyres during an anti-India protest in Muzaffarabad on May 5

The pressure to respond will be irresistible, but how? There are no Hindu terrorist targets to hit in India. Pakistan will have to go after military targets, probably Delhis air force. And that way lies a process of escalation with no obvious off-ramp.

Another problem Pakistan faces is that much anti-Indian terrorism comes out of Afghanistan, which it does not control, and its own tribal territories in the north, which it barely controls.

We must now hope that the likes of Saudi Arabia and the UAE - to which Pakistan is vastly in debt - step in and tell Islamabad to wind its neck in.

If reports are true that Pakistan has shot down five Indian planes, what will Modi do? Such a loss cannot be easily brushed aside. His people will demand vengeance.

The result could be a series of escalating tit-for-tat strikes and counter-strikes, and no one knows where that ends.

A few years ago, I spoke to a counter-terrorism expert who had worked with Bill Clinton, as the then-president tried to talk India and Pakistan back from the abyss when they clashed during the two-month Kargil War in 1999.

The long-running conflict between the two countries is, he told me, the one above all others that he thought could bring global, nuclear disaster.

Yet again, India and Pakistan are fighting over Kashmir. And if the conflict is not correctly managed, it will be all of us who pay the price.

Apocalypse Now is the podcast examining how close we are to Doomsday, each week. Available wherever you get your podcasts now
If you think luxury travel is only for those with platinum credit cards and sky-high salaries, you couldn't be more wrong.

Australian travel expert Paige Carmichael has proved that you don't need a millionaire bank balance to live like one, and she doesn't mind sharing all of her money-saving tips either.

Speaking to FEMAIL, the self-confessed 'luxury-for-less' traveller, who splits her time between her home in Noosa, Queensland and jet-setting abroad, frequently shares her ultimate tips for five-star getaways on a budget.

With a social media following of over 62000, Paige has quickly become a go-to resource for travel-loving enthusiasts just like her.

One of her most viral videos which showcased her pick of three affordable (and equally luxurious) London hotels, has amassed 1.5 million views.

While in another recent viral reel Paige talked through her experience of flying with the elites. The video which detailed 'everything that happens in business class on a long-haul flight to London', is now at over 700,000 views.

'We all deserve a little bougie experience. Travel is expensive enough these days, so if my tips make it a little less stressful, then that's a win,' she said.

From clever points hacks, booking off-peak, smart spending, to must-have high-end travel accessories, here's exactly how Paige fakes her way to what feels like VIP travel experience every time she flies.

Australian travel expert Paige Carmichael (pictured) has proved that you don't need a millionaire bank balance to live like one, sharing all of her money-saving tips online

With a social media following of over 62000, Paige has quickly become a go-to resource for travel-loving enthusiasts just like her

Points hacking like a pro

When it comes to getting a free upgrade Paige says it's all about frequent flyer points, and anyone can do it.

'The fastest way to rack up points is by getting a credit card that rewards you for spending,' she explained.

'I was raised to fear credit cards, but if you pay them off on time, it's basically free points.'

Paige also swears by shopping through Qantas' online portal, where you can earn points just by clicking through to sites like The Iconic.

And while many assume her influencer status is the reason she's sipping champagne at 35,000 feet, Paige sets the record straight.

'I get upgraded because of points and status, not because I take cute videos in dresses. My partner, who works in IT, once got bumped to business and left me in premium economy!'

Her golden rule? Pick an airline and stick with it.

'To land an upgrade with Qantas you need to accumulate points and status credits, so whenever I can, I book my flights through Qantas.'

'It may not always be the cheapest option, but it works out much cheaper in the longer run when you take into consideration all the free upgrades I've gotten over the years with points.'

When it comes to getting a free upgrade Paige says it's all about frequent flyer points, and anyone can do it.

Where to find five-star stays for less

For those special trips, Paige doesn't rely on Booking.com or last-minute deals.

She books directly through hotel websites or leans on a luxury travel advisors for upgrades and perks.

'Always check the hotel website first as they often have discounts and offers for customers who book direct and additional perks like free breakfast, flexible check in and more,' she said.

'For upscale, special accommodation, I use a luxury travel advisor called Belle Travel, who can often get me a free upgrade, late check out and other goodies.'

For special trips, Paige books directly through hotel websites or leans on a luxury travel advisors for upgrades and perks

Travel accessories that scream first-class

Paige's suitcase is packed with small luxuries that make a big difference.

'I collect hotel slippers and always pack them in my carry on,' she said.

'They look and feel cute but also stop you from getting someone else's wee on your socks when you go to the toilet mid flight!'

She also said a luxurious feeling 'wide scarf can double as a blanket', as well as wearing a stylish loungewear set layered with a crease-resistant trench coat is perfect for an 'effortlessly chic' airport look.

Paige's suitcase is packed with small luxuries that make a big difference, as well as hotel slippers that she 'collects' to wear on the plane

Selective seating counts

Paige also has hacks for making even the longest cattle-class flights feel more luxurious.

'I always check [the website] SeatGuru before choosing a seat, as not all seats are created equal!' she said.

'As someone who deals with IBS, aisle seats are non-negotiable for comfort, but researching the best spots can seriously upgrade your experience.'

Another tip is getting airport lounge access, even if you're flying economy.

'You can pay for lounge access at the airport with most airlines,' she said.

'It's a quieter space than the main airport (good if you suffer from anxiety like me), has private shower facilities and a buffet - which is a godsend on a long-haul journey.'

Paige always checks the SeatGuru website before booking, and recommends paying for airport lounge access, even if you're flying economy, to access showers, food and a quiet space

Look polished after a 24-hour flight

To stay looking 'put-together' on long trips, Paige's trick is surprisingly simple - get a professional blow-dry before you leave.

'Then I pile my hair up for the flight. Dry shampoo saves me for the first few days after landing!'

Her go-to for greasy emergencies is MCo Beauty's Magic dry shampoo - which is aerosol-free and travel-friendly.

Whether you're dreaming of sipping champagne high in the air or checking into a plush hotel without the terrifying bill, Paige proves that you don't need a fortune to live like you have one.

With a few clever hacks, a bit of forward planning, 'anyone can turn their next trip into a five-star experience'.
When it comes to meals fit for royalty and aristocracy, Aussie chef Annabel Bower knows first-hand what's on the menu at upper class dinner parties  and what food is 'considered lower class'.

The South Australian chef and food stylist spoke to FEMAIL about her former life working for English aristocrat Lord Benjamin Mancroft, 3rd Baron Mancroft and his wife Lady Emma Mancroft - including the foods you would never dare serve to visiting royals and celebrity guests.

Annabel, 44, also spilled on the classic 'picnic foods' beloved by then young Princes' William and Harry when they joined the Mancrofts at local events, like hunting or the polo.

After graduating from Ireland's prestigious Ballymaloe Cookery School, a chance connection landed the then 21-year-old Anabel a position in the Mancroft household.

The job saw Annabel based in Gloucestershire, England on a country property within the Duke of Beautfort's estate - a stone's throw from now monarch King Charles' Gloucestershire country property, Highgrove.

There, she was employed for almost a year as a cook and nanny to the aristocratic family, including Lord and Lady Mancroft's three young children, the Honourable Arthur, Georgia and Maximilian.

'I was only 21 and found it quite stressful to have all these really rich, aristocratic and sometimes famous people eating my food,' Annabel told FEMAIL.

'It was very much a glimpse into the upstairs, downstairs world of aristocratic life, which we don't really have in Australia.'

Australian chef Annabel Bower was previously employed as the in-house chef and nanny to British aristocrats Lord Benjamin Mancroft, 3rd Baron Mancroft and his wife Lady Emma Mancroft, along with their three children the Honourable Arthur, Georgia and Maximilian

Annabel was based in the Mancroft country household, which was one of the property's on the Duke of Beaufort's estate. This aerial picture shows the Duke's residence, Badminton House

The position required Annabel to master the food and dining etiquette rules expected of an upper-class English household  and she quickly discovered that some surprising foods were 'considered lower class' and firmly off the table.

'You would never serve anything deep fried at a dinner party,' Annabel revealed, adding that it had nothing to do with fried foods like chips being unhealthy.

'It was fine to serve something like mashed potato that was absolutely full of butter, but deep-fried foods were considered quite lower class.'

The chef explained this was because lower class households typically had 'deep fryers running in their kitchen all the time' to cook up things like nuggets and fish fingers.

Fried food fare from the 'chipper', referring to a takeaway fish and chip takeaway shop, was similarly considered lower class.

The mother-of-four also explained that there were only a few select cuts of meat that you'd serve to upper class diners.

'Rib eye, beef fillet or a big piece of scotch are acceptable,' she said.

'You'd never serve minced or diced meat, because they're lesser cuts of meat. They could only be given to children or used for staff meals.'

Australian chef and food stylist Annabel Bower, who nowadays regularly works with food icon Maggie Beer (right) spoke to FEMAIL about her former life working as a chef for an aristocratic British family

Annabel Bower, the former chef to British aristocrats Lord and Lady Mancroft explained that certain foods are unacceptable to serve at upper class dinner parties. For instance, chopped carrots or swede turnips (left) are not acceptable, but dutch carrots (centre) are fine. All fried foods (right) are 'considered lower class'

Annabel even noted that there were 'different tiers of vegetable' that were acceptable to serve to guests.

'Swede turnips, for example, are used to feed animals,' Annabel said. 'But one time, I unknowingly made a Swede turnip mash with caramelised onion. [A family member] came and told me, "You can't serve that. That's cattle feed".

Annabel added that a diced carrot also falls into the no-go category - but, interestingly a whole baby carrot, like a Dutch carrot was acceptable.

Furthermore, anything that resembled takeaway food, fast food, or was mass produced was 'completely banned'.

The same rule applied to desserts, meaning it would be 'a faux pas to serve a premade dessert  like a store-bought cake'.

So, what is on the menu?

Some of the Mancroft household favourites  which were always 'made from scratch'  included pork and apple sausages served with mashed potato and gravy, chicken and leek pie and salmon cakes.

Simplicity was also a huge part of the upper class menu ethos, with Annabel explaining that 'garlic and parsley' were as 'crazy' as you could get with herbs and spices.

As for sweet treats, Annabel said jam roly-poly pudding and treacle tart were a favourite and that most of her weekends would be spent whipping up a 'sponge cake with fresh cream and fresh berries'.

Australian food stylist and chef Annabel studied at the prestigious Ballymaloe Cookery School in Ireland before landing a job with Lord and Lady Mancroft

Annabel Bower returned to Adelaide after a year spent working for a British aristocratic family and now works as a chef and food stylist for several well-known South Australian food brands

But there was one popular upper class dinner party dessert staple that surprised the Aussie cook: ice cream.

'Most of the time they wanted me to make homemade ice cream from scratch, set in a mould. It was a log shape that you'd cut into slices and serve with fresh cream. They always called it an "ice",' she said.

'Lady Mancroft explained to me that many years ago having a freezer was considered really special, so to be able to make and serve ice cream in your own home was considered quite elaborate.'

Annabel's duties also extended to packing abundant picnics for when the Mancrofts joined royalty and other aristocrats at prestigious events like the Duke of Beaufort's hunt and the Gloucestershire Festival of Polo, held annually at the Beaufort Polo Club.

Annabel explained that the picnic fare was designed to be 'shared with whoever was there' - which included regular attendees, Prince William and Prince Harry.

When it comes to picnic food that's fit for royalty  the Aussie chef says all the favourites were 'quite simple'.

'They love a ham and cheese sandwich or a classic chicken sandwich. Of course, you would use beautiful fresh white bread and top it with poached chicken, mayonnaise, lemon and herbs.'

Sweets like 'jam drop biscuits' were also a popular picnic treat enjoyed by royals and aristocrats.

In their younger years, Prince William (left) and Prince Harry (right) were regulars at the Beaufort Polo Club, with Australian chef Annabel Bower frequently in charge of providing a picnic at the polo to be enjoyed by royalty and aristocrats in attendance

In more formal dining circumstances, Annabel shared there were loads of etiquette guidelines around how food should be served.

'At dinner parties, the seating placements are very deliberate,' Annabel explained.

'The most important male had to sit next to the hostess and the most important female sits next to the host.

'Then, food must be served in a certain order around the table, always starting with the hostess.

The meals were also served using delicate cutlery and crockery sets 'that could only be hand washed'.

'It was a terrifying task to hand wash a hundred year old china set with gold edging and delicate crystals,' the chef recalled.

Annabel also found it fascinating to discover that 'napkin rings' were a no-go.

'I thought a silver napkin ring would be super posh, but true aristocrats don't use them because their napkins are laundered after ever use, whereas a napkin ring suggests they weren't washed,' she said.

The dinner party also has a structured format  it typically commences after 8.30pm (long after children had been separately fed and put to bed!) and the food is served promptly and quickly.

'Once dinner is finished, the hosts and guests move to a sitting room, and staff disappear,' she said.

Despite having the opportunity to live amongst the creme of upper English society, Annabel revealed she soon felt homesick and lonely in the rural community, eventually returning to her hometown of Adelaide.

Nowadays, she works closely with South Australia powerhouse food brands and icons, like Maggie Beer, pasta brand San Remo as well as local seafood producers Ferguson Australia lobster and Yumbah oysters and abalone.

Although her days of serving meals to royalty are long behind her, Annabel reflects that the experience gave her confidence in any high-pressure cooking situation.

'Since being back in Australia, I've cooked for high court judges, Prime Ministers and at all kinds of high stakes events' she said.

'I never felt intimidated cooking for those people, because I'd already cooked for so many different VIPs in England.'
Fashion conscious Aussies are heading into Big W to track down a pair of chic and comfy leisurewear pants that are priced at only $25.

Style content creator Dani Katralis, of @luxeandlemonade, recently caught the attention of fashion-savvy shoppers after posting a TikTok video demonstrating how she styled the bargain fashion find as part of a business-wear outfit.

The Aussie mum recently posted a video sharing a 'mini haul' from a recent trip to Big W, explaining that she was particularly blown away by the brand's &me Side Stripe Pants in Navy.

Labelling them 'the comfiest pants' thanks to 'an elasticised waist', Dani explained in that the budget retailer's fashion piece featured the kind of details you would expect from a more expensive pair of leisurewear pants.

She noted that they have a 'gorgeous dart detail down the middle of the pants' and even a 'little faux flap' along the belt line, mimicking a more formal pair of pants.

'Because let's face it, these are track pants masquerading as business pants. We love that,' added the content creator, who specialises in affordable style advice.

The video also sees Dani style the pants alongside another stylish Big W bargain find in the &me Women's Blazer in Stone, which is currently on sale for $25.

The fashion influencer proceeded to showcase exactly how she would style the two pieces together into a business wear outfit.

Fashion savvy shoppers are keen to get their hands on the Big W &me Side Stripe Pants in Navy, $25 after an Aussie content creator demonstrated how to style them as business wear

Dani Katralis, who posts under the handle @luxeandlemonade, was impressed by the comfy $25 Big W leisurewear pants and demonstrated how to style them as part of a business wear outfit

Starting with the pants and a tucked-in white collared shirt, Dani explained her goal was to create an 'elevated' business wear look.

She then added vinyl red pointed flats and layered gold accessories like necklaces, bracelets, earrings and a watch, before topping off her outfit with the Big W blazer.

Dani then proceeded to scrunch up the blazer sleeves to a three-quarter length before modelling the final ensemble.

'I feel so put together,' she said of the finished outfit.

Dani then added with a smile: 'These are basically track pants.'

The video, which has been shared hundreds of times and was flooded with comments from excited Aussie shoppers.

'I love it, you look great. I'm off to Big W,' read one reply.

'Running,' added another, alongside an emoji of a person running.

'I would never have thought...it looks amazing!!' added a third.

Aussie fashion content creator Sneza Jovanovic also posted a video praising a similar pair of new season Big W Australia leisurewear pants, wearing the &me Side Stripe Pants in Dark Blue $30

Another already-convinced shopper added: 'Yes, with the navy pants. I love the pants. They are so comfortable.'

Even Big W's own account chimed into the comments, replying: 'We're calling it our slay era'.

The sentiment around the leisurewear pants was echoed by another Australian fashion content creator, who also recently shared a post showcasing her favourite picks from the Big W winter season drop.

Fashion influencer and Big W clothing ambassador Sneza Jovanovic posted an Instagram video about how the mass retailer had 'levelled up its fashion game'.

The video, which sees the style content creator model several different pieces from the budget retailer, features Sneza wearing a similar pair of &me Side Stripe Pants in Dark Blue, $30 with an oversized blue shirt, white cross-body bag and casual blue suede shoes.

Sneza also praised the leisurewear pants as a 'must-have look for a modern sporty vibe', adding that 'fabric is incredibly soft and cosy'.

Her video similarly attracted excited messages from shoppers.

'How good is Big W at the moment,' read one reply.
He's a man with no enemies who has devoted a lifetime of extraordinary service to our planet.

And as Sir David Attenborough turns 99, the most modest man in showbiz is using his birthday to tell the world: 'If we save the sea we save our world.

Yet, the naturalist's phenomenal milestone will no doubt be tinged with sadness that his greatest love, aside from our earth, is not there to celebrate with him.

Jane, his wife, was not only his soulmate, but the very rock on which he built his life.

'My wife was a very special woman,' Sir David previously told this newspaper.

'She gave up her career as a cook when we married because she was old-fashioned enough to believe that being married and having a family was a career.

'But she was special in the sense that she let me go off around the world. She knew it made me happy; she wanted that for me.'

It was while Sir David was filming in New Zealand that he received the devastating phone call: Jane, 70, had suffered a brain haemorrhage and had fallen into a coma.

The BBC rushed Sir David to her side in London.

'She never recovered consciousness but she knew I was back because she clasped my hand,' he said of that day in February 1997.

Sir David Attenborough and his wife Jane in 1991. Lady Attenborough died from a brain haemorrhage in 1997 on February 10 aged 70

'The surgeon very gently and compassionately said that there was no way he could operate because she simply wasn't strong enough.

'She died one day short of our 47th wedding anniversary. It was a very happy marriage.'

Sir David and Jane - born Jane Elizabeth Ebsworth Oriel - met while students. She was his first and only serious girlfriend.

They were both 18 and at the age of 24, when he had finished his national service with the Royal Navy, they married in 1950.

In 1951, their son, Robert, was born and a year later Sir David joined the BBC. Two years later, their daughter Susan arrived.

The strength and devotion of the Attenborough marriage was legendary. Jane never failed to meet him at the airport when he returned from his film trips.

A technician who worked with him previously recalled to the Daily Mail at being astonished at seeing the cool, professional naturalist suddenly transformed into a passionate husband.

'The way those two greeted one another looked more like a couple of teenagers having a snog at a disco,' they said.

The couple are pictured on their wedding day with his brother and best man, Richard Attenborough, at St. Anne's Church, Kew Green, in Richmond upon Thames in 1950

Sir David and Lady Jane had two children; Robert and Susan

Although Jane's death came as a terrible shock, she had been ill for some time.

'She had had a huge operation 18 months ago for a non-cancerous tumour. But we knew she was going to need a further operation,' said Sir David.

'But what killed her was nothing to do with the cancer. It was a brain tumour, which isn't uncommon.

'It's part of the ageing process. Things fail, the body fails...

'It's so very sad because the cancer she had wasn't an aggressive one. It would have killed her eventually, but it would have taken time.'

If ever Sir David had been frightened by collapsing glaciers, stampeding rhinos or wild elephants in his career, it was nothing compared with the fear of the lonely years ahead without the woman he always came home to.

'I am absolutely distraught,' he said in the months after Jane's death.

'I hope I am coping, but Jane has looked after me ever since we married. Her death was a bolt out of the blue. We loved each other so very much, and I don't quite know how I'm going to adapt to life without her.

'She kept our family going.'

He continued: 'I will miss the parties, the friends, the laughter she created here [their home in Richmond].

'Jane was a superb cook and wonderful hostess. We made many close friends at the BBC over the years. In the Fifties, the organisation was very small so we were a very tightknit group, and those were the people who came to our home over the years. Those were the people at Jane's funeral.'

The family at home in Richmond, pictured in 1955 with their pet tortoise

The naturalist was knighted by the Queen at an investiture at Buckingham Palace, London, with his wife Jane (right) and daughter Susan (left) in 1985

The mourners at St Anne's Church in Kew Green included Sir David's brother Richard, Lord Attenborough, and his family, Anna Ford, Bill Cotton, Bamber Gascoigne and friends from theatre and TV. It was at St Anne's that David and Jane were married 47 years ago.

It was there that their children  Robert and Susan  were baptised.

'Many women whose husbands worked away as often as I did might have made a different life for themselves,' said Sir David.

'Jane didn't; the family was as central to her life as it was to mine.

'That's not to say she didn't have her own interests and her own friends. She was an enthusiastic potter and she did social work here in Richmond and worked with various charities. So yes, she had friends, but never her own life.'

Sir David said many people may have thought him selfish.

'Some might say: "But what did she want?" I knew just what Jane wanted. The two of us were such homebirds. When I came home from trips I just wanted to be with her. She was my rock. It was as simple as that.

The strength and devotion of the Attenborough marriage was legendary

Sir David Attenborough's new film is set to be different to his previous documentaries and has been described as the 'greatest message he's ever told'. Pictured July 2024

'She was a very modest woman and the personification of unselfishness. Her support provided me with the stability to do my work.

'I know it may sound hard but I have no regrets about my work because we had such a wonderful marriage. And it was always such a joy to be together again. Jane would always meet me at the airport.

'Sometimes she used to travel with me, but, by and large, travelling through rainforests wasn't her scene.

'She enjoyed coming on the odd trip because she liked to see what I had to do professionally, so that she was able to talk to me about it.'

Even in his 70s and with the loss of Jane, Sir David was sure of one thing: he must keep working.

'Jane would have been very upset if I'd stopped working because of her. She would never have allowed that.'

Asked if he could single out one aspect of his wife he missed the most.

'Her presence,' he answered simply.

'It's certainly not the fact that I don't get a cup of tea in the mornings.'
An expecting 21-year-old influencer in a 24-year age gap relationship has revealed details of the luxury 'babymoon' that her boyfriend has funded.

Ellie Liptrot, originally from Wales, met her partner Mark, 45, through mutual friends on a night out at the end of 2021 when she was 18.

The couple moved in together after a few months of dating in June 2022, with Mark's two young children, Izzie and Marcus, who refer to Ellie as their 'step-mum', joining them.

Now, the family of four is set to get an additional member because Ellie is heavily pregnant with her first child.

To celebrate the upcoming arrival, Mark has treated Ellie to a luxury stay in Ibiza's Ushuaia beach hotel, where prices range from 420 to 8,100 per night.

Taking to TikTok to share footage of the holiday, Ellie said, 'A lot of people don't agree with me, but I'm going on my baby moon at 35 weeks pregnant with my first child, and of course, it has to be Ibiza.'

Ellie explained that her stepchildren did not receive an invite to the babymoon, a trip taken by a couple before the birth of their baby, because she wanted to spend time with Mark.

She said, 'Yes, this is a babymoon, so stepchildren were not invited. Unfortunately, they did have to stay at home. They've got school guys. It's nice to enjoy time just me and Mark before we have a fifth member to the family.'

Pregnant influencer Ellie Liptrot, 25, has shared footage of her babymoon with her partner Mark (pictured together)

Ellie said she made a series of precautionary measures throughout the trip to ensure her comfort, including during the flight.

She said, 'I am an anxious flyer, I've always been, so being pregnant has made it so much worse.

'Because I am 35 weeks, I did have to get a fit to fly off my midwife. It was super easy to get but [if I were to give] any tips for flying - make sure you stay super hydrated and take a fan because it gets hot.'

The influencer added that she booked an aisle seat to ensure she could get up and go to the toilet as often as she liked without any issues.

Once they arrived, Mark hired Ellie a car, so she didn't have to wait around for taxis during the stay.

The influencer explained, 'We did also hire a car ,which made it so much easier. I didn't have to stand around waiting for taxis being this heavily pregnant.'

After a short drive, the pair arrived at the luxury hotel. Ellie said, 'Mark did treat me to the Ushuaia hotel, it's been done up and now it's called the Unexpected hotel.

'We've been in so many nice hotels in Ibiza, and by far, this is our favourite we've ever been to. And the fact that it's adults only. It's the last time I'm going to enjoy this for a very long time.'

The influencer, originally from Wales, is 35 weeks pregnant (pictured with Mark on a previous trip to Thailand)

Ellie is pictured with Mark and her stepchildren, Izzie and Marcus, who refer to Ellie as their 'step-mum'

The influencer gave her followers a glimpse at the room, which included a bathroom stocked with Clarins products and a hot tub on the balcony.

Ellie said, 'The room itself [is] honestly, stunning, absolutely stunning. It is huge, the bed is massive.

'We have a full-on bar; not like I can drink from it though. And we even have a jacuzzi on the balcony, and Mark didn't even know we had it, so he was so shocked.

She continued, 'And no matter how much I pay for a hotel, I will be robbing the freebies, you bet. So, this makeup bag with all the stuff is in my suitcase. Everything you could imagine is in the case.'

After settling into their room, the duo visited one of Mark's favourite fine dining restaurants called Bambudhha.

'Bambuddha is a restaurant temple fusing spirituality with sexuality and designed to host romantic dinners, private events and everything in between,' the restaurant's website reads.

'This is the nicest food I've ever had,' Ellie said while displaying her sushi dish, adding, 'Yes, it's pricey, but it's worth every single penny.'

She continued, 'How do they make vegetables taste so nice? Before anyone says anything, the sushi is [made of] vegetables, which means I can eat it pregnant.'

Ellie and Mark's room at the Ushuaia hotel boasts a view of the swimming pool and Spanish beach

It comes after Ellie shared some of the purchases she's made ahead of the birth of her son.

In true influencer style, the 21-year-old shared a glimpse into two luxury purchases that her boyfriend has funded ahead of their baby boy's arrival on TikTok, which cost a staggering 3212.

While Ellie hasn't broken down the amount she's spent on her bump's new room, which is kitted out with rails of new clothes, toys, and books, she's revealed some of her bigger purchases.

'Teaching baby to spend all of daddy's money before he's born,' Ellie wrote in a video where she paraded some of the more luxury purchases.

Ellie showed off her new Gucci monogram-print baby changing bag, which costs a whopping 1,620.

The luxury item, made in Italy and comes with a changing mat and dust bag, is made of canvas and leather.

Ellie also showed her 199,000 followers the new pram she's purchased, which she chose because it matched her outfit.

The iCandy pushchair, which also doubles as a carrycot, costs a staggering 1,593 on the website.
Cressida dated Prince Harry from 2012 to 2014 and is now happily married

Prince Harry's ex-girlfriend Cressida Bonas has shared a sweet birthday tribute to her 'dream guy' husband.

The actress and model previously dated the Duke of Sussex for two years from 2012 to 2014, after being introduced by his cousin, Princess Eugenie.

However, Cressida reportedly struggled with the intense media scrutiny that came with being involved with a senior royal, with the pressure believed to have caused their eventual split.

Since her high-profile romance with Harry, Cressida has largely remained tight-lipped about her personal life with her now-husband Harry Wentworth-Stanley.

Today, she gave a rare insight into their life together, as the 36-year-old shared a glimpse into their life together in a sweet Instagram post.

Images of the couple throughout the years, and with their son Wilbur, born in 2022, were captioned with the text: 'Happy birthday to my dream guy.'

Her post with her husband, a real estate agent and the son of the Marchioness of Milford Haven, presented a picture of serene domestic bliss.

Cressida is believed to remain on good terms with Harry and his family, including her long-time friend Princess Eugenie, and even attended her ex-boyfriend's wedding to Meghan Markle in 2018.

Cressida shared this image, among others, of she and her husband in a post captioned: 'Happy birthday to my dream guy'

The actress and model was in a relationship with Prince Harry for approximately two years, before they amicably split in 2014 (Pictured: The couple together in March, 2014)

Cressida met her husband during their time at Leeds University, where they briefly dated before parting ways.

After her high-profile relationship with Prince Harry ended, she and Wentworth-Stanley reconnected.

Their renewed romance blossomed, leading to an engagement in August 2019.

In July 2020, the couple married in a private countryside ceremony, with only close family and friends in attendance.

The young couple welcomed their first child, Wilbur, in November, 2022.

In January this year, Cressida happily announced she was expecting their second child, conceived via a frozen embryo from earlier IVF treatment.

Pictured: The first in a series of images shared by the 36-year-old on her husband's birthday

Images of the couple throughout the years, and with their son Wilbur, born in 2022, were captioned with the text: 'Happy birthday to my dream guy'

Cressida Bonas has shared a sweet birthday tribute to her husband Harry Wentworth-Stanley

It was reported that Prince Harry and Cressida (pictured in 2014) ended their relationship the intense media scrutiny placed on the young couple

Cressida and Harry eagerly watching the We Day UK event in 2014 at Wembley Arena

'I am now well into my second pregnancy,' she said. 'Having conceived through IVF the first time, we were fortunate to have another embryo stored away in a freezer.'

The expecting mother revealed that this has been a difficult pregnancy.

'I've been battling morning sickness,' she said. 'I've never had it before, and now feel like I've been swaying on a boat for months.'

The couple, who live in west London, are now seeking a bigger home.

Cressida says their pet dachshund, Budgie, 'is bound to be unimpressed' by the house move.

'Not only are we uprooting her territory, but there's a new family member on the way and she can sense it.'

In 2022, Cressida described how she felt as though 'my body was failing me' after facing difficulties in conceiving, and when a specialist told the couple 'there was nothing fundamentally wrong'.

Bonas and Wentworth-Stanley share a two-year-old son, Wilbur, who is pictured with his father in this image shared by Cressida

Writing in The Sunday Times, she said: 'I spent time and money on reflexology, nutritionists, acupuncture and psychicsEven a German healer who speaks to angels. I heard nothing, not a squeak.

'My mind was on a constant worry loop and my obsession with getting pregnant became overwhelming. No matter how many Mystic Megs I saw or expensive supplements I took, nothing was working, and I felt as if my body was failing me.'

Cressida admitted to 'avoiding' loved one's children's parties due to feeling out of place around her friends who had kids, amid the struggle to have her own.

She went on to say that IVF firstly 'frightened' her due to having no 'power' over the final outcome.
If winter makes us snuggle, summer is for sex!

Heat relaxes our muscles, heightens skin sensation and slows us down.

We're all wearing far fewer clothes (and checking out the legs and breasts and chests suddenly on show).

Is it any wonder we feel far more laid-back and in the mood for sex when temperatures rise?

Make this summer the sexiest ever by ticking off all (you can do it!) of the challenges on my summer sex bucket list.

Abandon the bed and have sex on the floor instead. It's way cooler than lying on top of a hot duvet or bedspread. Better still

Play with an ice-cube. It works a treat for teasing  especially if you follow the bits of skin you've just 'iced' with a hot, warm mouth.

Work a wet T-shirt. Nothing looks sexier than the simple combination of a pair of great fitting jeans and a T-shirt.

UK sex expert Tracey Cox, pictured, challenges you to 'make this summer the sexiest ever' with her challenges

Make it even sexier by 'accidentally' getting that T-shirt wet so it's transparent as well. See-through clothing scores higher on the erotica scale than nude flesh. Why?

There's a world of nudity a click away on your phone and being partially clothed is more mysterious, offering a secret glimpse of something you're not supposed to see in public.

Get naked and stay naked! If winter is for layering, summer is for peeling them off. Sleep naked. Walk around naked. Take full advantage of being able to lazily explore each other's body without worrying that either of you are freezing to death.

Sunbathe to supercharge your libido. Our libidos rise during hot weather because sunlight lifts our mood, raising levels of the happiness hormone serotonin and lust-boosting testosterone. We have one third more testosterone in our bodies in June than in January.

Work out outside. Skimpier clothing means we're more inclined to notice our bods and how they're faring, so exercise more. Exercise makes us feel better about our bodies which translates to better sex. Which might explain why we have more sex in August than any other month.

Escape the crowd at the next picnic in the park with friends and discover all the hidden places available for bite-size foreplay-style sex sessions (behind a tree, behind the loos). The bigger the crowd, the easier it is to get away with.

Role-play a summer romance by pretending you've just met on holidays and about a have a hot summer fling.

Try tantra. Heat makes us feel languid and slow. Make it work for you in the bedroom by trying some simple tantric sex moves. Have sex without breaking eye contact or match your breathing for an astonishingly intimate experience.

Take your knickers off and put on a mid-length dress or floaty skirt. No need to announce it, just grab his hand under the table to show and tell.

Heat relaxes our muscles, heightens skin sensation and slows us down. We're all wearing far fewer clothes (and checking out the legs and breasts and chests suddenly on show). Is it any wonder we feel far more laid-back and in the mood for sex when temperatures rise? Stock image used

Take off your bikini top and let him use it for tie-up games.

Head to a fun park. Long-term love is a kind, soft, comfy emotion. Lust is primitive, wild and edgy. We need risk and a hint of danger to continue to see our partners as sexual beings. Any type of adrenalin boosting activity drives up the dopamine level in your brain, making you feel lustier. So do anything that slightly freaks you out  jump on a rollercoaster, sky-dive, kick-box, play fight.

Read a racy novel. Reading erotica is a sure-fire way to boost desire so don't just save them for the beach. Read a little bit before bed and you might find you're in the mood for more than sleeping.

Go commando. It's cooler and you can't help but focus on sex when your bits are free and ready to be ravished!

Get a room. Summer is for holidays, and nothing will get you out of your sex rut quicker than doing it in a new environment, away from your usual routine.

A cool new way to massage. Using oil when you're both hot and sweaty isn't ideal. Instead, try using talcum or baby powder while wearing cotton gloves. Talcum is nice and slippery, cooler, and works like oil if you wear gloves. Slide your hands all over his body and let him fantasise away!

HOT PLACES TO HAVE SEX

When it's cold, you're restricted to under the covers or in front a fire. Make the most of the heat by moving everything out of the bedroom.

In the bath: If there's one with jets, you'd be rude not to jump in there with champagne and position yourself where they hit the spot. A good position choice: he sits with knees bent, you sit on his lap.

In the shower. Wear waterproof makeup and use soap free cleanser so fingers can disappear into all sorts of places. Shampooing each other's hair is an incredibly intimate and sexy thing to do. Let him shave your legs; you shave his face. The best and safest (water is slippery!) position here is doggy style. You bend over with both feet on the floor, he stands behind. If you're having problems - size problems or agility - both get down on your knees.

On a secluded beach. Take some towels and sarongs, keep the action under them and you'll get away with all sorts.

In the countryside. Walk a little off the beaten track and you'll find conveniently placed trees or bushes that shield you from view.

At a famous sight-seeing attraction. Yes, full sex is way too ambitious (unless you find an isolated loo?) but you can certainly get away with a quick snog and/or a fumble behind a post or two at a landmark you'll never forget.

In a restaurant with long tablecloths. Wear a floaty dress with no pants and keep a straight face while the waiter takes your order.

In the pool, the sea or a hot tub. My advice is to jump in for some steamy foreplay, jump out for the final act. There's a lot of bacteria or irritants floating about once you have full sex.

Have sex in front of a window with the blinds up. Do it in the dark knowing no-one can see you but you can see everyone else.

Tracey's product ranges are sold exclusively through lovehoney.co.uk. Her weekly podcast, SexTok, comes out on Wednesdays. All info on traceycox.com.
The Aussie snack has now landed on UK shelves in B&M, shoppers say

B&M has just dropped a game-changing treat that's sending UK snack lovers into a frenzy - and it's an unusual take on two much-loved sweet staples.

Imported all the way from Australia, these delectable biscuits are now gracing UK shelves, much to the delight of sweet-toothed Brits.

The Cadbury Caramilk Double Stuff Oreos reimagines the classic chocolatey Oreo cookie, but with a twist.

Two golden biscuits are sandwich with a caramelised white chocolate creme filling, proving for a more saccharine variant on the beloved delicacy. The melt-in-your-mouth experience is priced at 2.99 for a 131g pack.

Shoppers have been taking to social media to express their enthusiasm.

On the popular New Foods UK Facebook group, one foodie wrote: 'I don't like Oreos normally, but these I'd try.'

Many rushed to give their compliments, dubbing the treats 'absolute must-haves'.

'Best ones yet,' one fan penned.

Cadbury Caramilk Double Stuff Oreos combine the beloved chocolate with the accidentally vegan biscuit

The Cadbury Caramilk Double Stuff Oreos reimagines the classic chocolatey Oreo cookie, but with a twist. Stock image used

The post racked up more than 2,600 reactions; however, not everyone was as enchanted - with one writing: 'OMG! Go away! I feel my blood sugar levels rising just looking at them.'

The buzz is undeniable, with many eager to get their hands on the biscuits.

This launch is part of a broader trend of unique snack offerings making their way to the UK.

Previously, B&M introduced the Australian-exclusive Cadbury Dairy Milk Lamington bar, which quickly became a fan favourite.

Sweet treat fans looking to indulge in something special should head over to the nearest B&M store.

But if caramel isn't your style, other flavour variations are sold by the bargain retailer as well, such as Cinnamon Roll, Mint and Neapolitan Double Stuff Oreos, Metro reported.

Keen shoppers took to the comments to express their enthusiasm over the new launch

Popular Manchester-based food blogger John's Snack Reviews rated the new launch 9.5/10.

On Instagram, he said: 'Now these are a pack of biscuits! You could eat the pack in seconds they're that good!

'A decent Caramilk flavoured biscuit that does actually taste like Caramilk along with double stuffed Caramilk creme.

'It's nice because it's official Caramilk and not someone trying to copy the flavour.'

And Emily of food blog Snack Reviews Aus echoed the positive response, saying: 'I really like these. They actually taste really nice.

'Sometimes you just don't really want chocolate Oreos. This is a really nice alternative.'

A spokesperson for Mondelez International  which owns Cadbury  previously said that the company had more to come soon.

They added that Mondelez International and Lotus Bakeries (of Biscoff) planned to develop and market co-branded chocolate products in Europe, with the possibility of expanding into additional markets.
A travel writer has shared a glimpse into the smallest town in America... which has only one resident - an 89-year-old woman who serves as the mayor, librarian, bartender, treasurer and sheriff.

Seth Varner, 25, a photographer and author from Wahoo, Nebraska, has dedicated the last five years to documenting every town in his home state.

Along the way, he discovered Monowi: an abandoned town with only one remaining resident.

That's right, at 89-years-old, Elsie Eiler is the one and only person living in the remote village, and she has dedicated her life to keeping it going.

Seth - who has visited Monowi eight times now - explained that it was once a booming town that was filled with multiple storefronts, restaurants, and homes, as well as a school, railroad, and prison.

In the 1930s, approximately 150 people called Monowi home.

But according to Seth, people began to leave the 'agricultural hamlet' during the rural-to-urban shift, and it's now 'essentially a ghost town.'

One woman stayed: Elsie, who is the last remaining Monowi resident and singlehandedly keeps the town afloat.

A travel writer has shared a glimpse into the smallest town in America ... which has only one resident - an 89-year-old woman who serves as the mayor, librarian, bartender, and sheriff

Seth Varner, 25, an author from Wahoo, Nebraska, has been documenting every town in his home state. Along the way, he discovered Monowi: an town with only one resident

That's right, at 89-years-old, Elsie Eiler is the one and only person living in the remote village, and she has dedicated her life to keeping it going

'From what I can tell, she manages all municipal planning (including securing state funding and power for Monowi's four streetlamps) by herself,' Seth dished.

There's no stores left in the town so Seth theorized that she goes to the neighboring villages to get groceries.

She spends her days managing the two remaining businesses: the local tavern and the library.

'Folks who visit Monowi nowadays primarily chat with Elsie and have a meal or a drink at the Monowi Tavern,' Seth dished.

'She's owned it since 1971, and she makes a mean burger. All that's left is the tavern, "Rudy's Library," the former collection of books owned by her husband, Rudy, who passed away in 2004, and a collection of abandoned homes, storefronts, and even the church that Elsie got married in.

'Most visits only take an hour or so, since it's essentially a ghost town with a population of one.'

According to Seth, Elsie loves having visitors, and you can usually catch her in the tavern cooking up meals for the tourists and reminiscing about what Monowi was during its prime.

'She's always happy to sit down and chat with visitors and talk about the days of old Monowi,' he shared.

Seth explained that Monowi (seen in 1908) was once a booming town that was filled with multiple storefronts, restaurants, and homes, as well as a school, railroad, and prison

In the 1930s, approximately 150 people called Monowi home. But people began to leave the 'agricultural hamlet' during the rural-to-urban shift, and it's now 'essentially a ghost town'

But one woman stayed: Elsie (seen with Seth and a friend), who is the last remaining Monowi resident and singlehandedly keeps the town afloat

Elsie spends her days managing the two remaining businesses: the local tavern (left) and the library (right)

'She will gladly welcome and talk to anybody who wants to know more about Monowi.

'She's got a lot of wit, and despite being semi-private, she says that she always enjoys the company of those who visit here.

'She's very down-to-earth, and for lack of a better word, she has a "no B.S." kind of elderly woman's attitude.'

Elsie spoke to BBC back in 2020 about what it's really like to run the town by herself.

'Folks who visit Monowi nowadays primarily chat with Elsie and have a meal or a drink at the Monowi Tavern,' Seth dished. 'She's owned it since 1971, and she makes a mean burger'

According to Seth, Elsie loves having visitors, and you can usually catch her in the tavern cooking up meals for the tourists and reminiscing about what Monowi was during its prime

Seth added, 'All that's left is the tavern and 'Rudy's Library,' the former collection of books owned by her husband, Rudy, who passed away in 2004'

At the time, she explained that she holds mayoral elections every year. She then casts a vote for herself - and as the only resident, she always wins.

'When I apply to the state for my liquor and tobacco licenses each year, they send them to the secretary of the village, which is me,' she said.

'So, I get them as the secretary, sign them as the clerk and give them to myself as the bar owner.

'I'm happy here. I grew up here, I'm used to this and I know what I want. It's just hard to change after so many years.'
A furious guest who was refused entry into her luxury hotel ahead of the Met Gala has been identified as one of Hollywood's most powerful stylists.

Jessica Paster caused a commotion outside of The Carlyle Hotel in Manhattan on Monday when staff members and two NYPD officers forcibly barred her from entering the premises.

In shocking footage, Paster is seen being dragged out onto the street by the two cops as she screams, 'I'm staying at this hotel!'

As it turns out, not only was Jessica a guest at The Carlyle, she was also there to style multiple celebrities for the Met Gala.

The luxury 5-star hotel is one of the go-tos for stars attending the annual fundraiser due to its close proximity to the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute in Manhattan, where the Met Gala is held each year.

Paster's now broken her silence over the incident, claiming that she was 'manhandled' by police.

The celebrity stylist had three clients at Monday's event, including Abbott Elementary actress Quinta Brunson, who she styles full time.

A furious guest who was refused entry into her luxury hotel ahead of the Met Gala has been identified as celebrity stylist Jessica Paster

In shocking footage, Paster is seen being dragged out onto the street by the two cops as she screams, 'I'm staying at this hotel!'

She was also behind supermodel Miranda Kerr's show-stopping Dior look and gymnast Simone Biles' custom electric blue frock from Harbison Studio.

Paster is one of the top celebrity stylists in the industry, with A-list clients that include Audrey Plaza, Emily Blunt, Glenn Close, Paris Jackson, David Guetta, and Nicole Scherzinger.

Just last year, she was featured on the cover of The Hollywood Reporter's 'Power Stylists' issue.

Despite her impressive resume, it seems that police manning The Carlyle Hotel ahead of the Met Gala were unaware of her status when they turned her away.

In unbelievable footage, Paster - clad in a grey sweatsuit and carrying a bag from Sephora - screamed at police and staff members as she tried to enter the hotel.

A female officer tried to direct Jessica to a difference door around the side, but the stylist to the stars insisted that she be able to use the main entrance.

'I'm staying at this hotel,' she snapped, before explaining that she had 'three rooms' at The Carlyle - presumably rooms for her celebrity clients Kerr, Brunson, and Biles.

Not only was Jessica a guest at The Carlyle, she was also there to style multiple celebrities for the Met Gala

Paster's broken her silence over the incident, claiming that she was 'manhandled' by police

'I am NOT doing that,' she screamed at an officer. 'I paid for my room here!'

Responding calmly but firmly, the female NYPD officer points and says, 'Grey door, ma'am.'

At this point Paster tries to barge through the entrance, only to be apprehended by two NYPD officers and dragged onto the street.

She eventually storms back towards the entrance where staff members finally try to direct her inside, but not before she whips out her cell phone to record the police who initially barred her from entering.

'I'm so mad right now,' she rages before heading inside.

A number of A-listers were seen leaving the hotel in their glamorous Met Gala looks shortly after the altercation.

Actress Sydney Sweeney, influencer Emma Chamberlain, reggaeton artist J Balvin, fashion designer Dapper Dan and even Rihanna were among the names spotted on the red carpet of the Carlyle.

The celebrity stylist had three clients at Monday's event, including Abbott Elementary actress Quinta Brunson, who she styles full time

She was also behind Miranda Kerr's incredible Dior look at the Met Gala

Speaking to Page Six after the incident, Paster explained that she had attempted to follow instructions from hotel staff.

'I want to say that I am just a person staying at a hotel minding my own business, having the credentials on my wrist and I got manhandled,' she told the outlet.

'I listened to people. They said go through the service door and when I did, they said go back to the lobby. And all of a suddenly they attacked me, they manhandled me,' she continued.

'I'm in a lot of pain. She's lucky she didn't break my arms.'

A police spokesperson told Page Six, 'Yesterday afternoon, a female attempted to enter the main entrance of the Carlyle Hotel when she was stopped and denied entry by hotel security.

'The individual attempted to enter the hotel a second time after being denied when officers intervened and stopped the female from entering,' they continued.

'She was told she needed to go through the service entrance and obtain proper credentials. This female was escorted to the service entrance by police where she was then re-escorted to the main entrance by hotel security and allowed entry.'
Meghan Markle posted an emotional birthday tribute to her eldest child Archie on his sixth birthday on Tuesday - but she did not use his title.

Sharing an image of her son standing on a balcony while looking at the sea during sunset, the mother-of-two revealed the couple hosted an 'incredibly special' party for Archie last weekend.

In a caption accompanying the snap, the Duchess of Sussex wrote: 'Our son. Our sun. Happy 6th birthday to Archie! Thank you for all of the love, prayers, and warm wishes for our sweet boy. Hes six! Where did the time go?

'(And for all of you who came to celebrate with us at his party last weekend, thank you for making his birthday so incredibly special).'

Her post comes after it was revealed that Meghan still calls herself Her Royal Highness to friends. At the end of last month, the 43-year-old sparked controversy after her friend Jamie Kern Lima shared a picture of a food hamper with a note that said it was 'With the compliments of HRH The Duchess of Sussex'.

However, a spokesperson for the Sussexes denied she is flouting the Megxit deal agreed with the late Queen.

Although no laws were passed or documents signed to prevent their use, Harry and Meghan's agreement with the late Queen and senior officials was that they would stop using the word 'Royal' and their HRH titles after they quit duties and emigrated to the US to become 'financially independent' from the Crown.

Critics have said that the image of the note with some organic ice cream and jam, published, was a tacit plug for Meghan's As Ever lifestyle range, while also promoting her new podcast episode with her friend Jamie.

Meghan Markle shared an image of Archie (pictured) to mark his sixth birthday. She did not use his royal title in the caption accompanying the snap

The post, which omitted the young royal's title, comes after Meghan sparked controversy after it was revealed that she still calls herself Her Royal Highness to friends

A source close to the royal couple suggested that the image shared by Jamie Kern Lima was taken before the Duchess launched her As Ever brand in early March.

They added that while Meghan and Harry do not publicly use 'HRH', their titles remain.

In the podcast, Jamie Kern Lima claimed that she had been sent the jam last year.

The Sussexes have never had their HRH taken away by Queen Elizabeth II or King Charles.

A spokesman for the Sussexes told MailOnline that they do not use HRH titles for commercial purposes.

However, Jamie's hamper image suggests that Meghan does use it with friends and in personal correspondence.

Meghan Markle is pictured with her eldest child, Archie, who celebrated his sixth birthday on May 6

The 'HRH, The Duchess of Sussex' note was spotted on a card by eagle-eyed royal fans last month.

The gift basket was sent to Meghan's friend, CEO of IT Cosmetics Jamie, when she had in-laws staying and the Duchess wanted to help out.

A screenshot of the hamper has since circulated online after featuring on Jamie's podcast on Sunday - and appears to feature the Duchess' homemade strawberry spread.

The basket also includes two jars of Straus organic ice cream, some flowers, mint, and the note with Meghan's royal title embellished on it.

Some royal fans reacted angrily, with one writing on X: 'I thought they couldn't use HRH?'

Another said: 'She's not to [use] it per the Queen!'

Royal commentator Ingrid Seward said: 'I think if her late grandmother-in-law Queen Elizabeth was still around she would be highly offended, as she was very sensitive about that.

The gift basket and HRH note was sent to Meghan's friend, CEO of IT Cosmetics Jamie Kern Lima. Meghan's spokesman denies that she is using it for commercial gain

'The Queen didn't remove HRH but told them not to use it. But she isn't here anymore so maybe Harry and Meghan think they can get away with it.'

She told The Sun: 'Remember she removed the HRH titles from both Diana and Sarah Ferguson'.

Buckingham Palace released a statement after Harry and Meghan stepped down as senior royals in January 2020 to embark on a new life together in California.

The statement said: 'The Sussexes will not use their HRH titles as they are no longer working members of the Royal Family.'

HRH, an abbreviation of His/Her Royal Highness, is used as part of the title of some members of the royal family.
What has Rob Albon  a man of slender means who lives in a small terraced house in North East England  in common with tech billionaire Elon Musk, the richest person on the planet?

Not a lot, you may imagine. But actually in one fundamental respect they agree: both are intent on fathering hordes of children, on spreading their genes and populating the world with mini versions of themselves.

Back in 2021, Musk - who at last official count had 14 children, although some suspect the true number could be close to 100  said low and rapidly declining birth rates were one of the biggest risks to civilization.

He was, therefore, duty bound to set a good example, he reasoned; to practise what he preached.

What he would make of Albon, is anyones guess. His tally stands at a staggering 190.

Thats correct: there are 190 children and young adults scattered across the world bearing his DNA  and he couldnt be more proud.

Im the poor mans Elon Musk, says Albon, a stocky, balding 54 year old, who speaks in a soft American drawl.

While he [Musk] has reached the pinnacle in business, his technology will have become obsolete by the time he dies, so his children will be his most enduring legacy.

Like Musk, Im a very creative person. I feel I have to give back to the world and this is my way: to be productive. Its something I feel I should accomplish. I have some responsibility to my ancestors and their descendants. Filial piety is what its called. Im doing it for posterity.

Others may have a less grandiloquent way of describing it. Certainly Albon has helped create babies on an industrial scale, but he is doing so as a private sperm donor, advertising via his Facebook page.

And his preferred method of donation is by what this growing and unregulated industry terms natural insemination (NI)  thats straightforward, penetrative sex  or partial intercourse, (PI) which apparently only involves penetration at the last minute.

He prefers these methods because fresh semen, he argues, is far more effective than frozen, and also because certain sexual positions  as opposed to using a syringe  increase the chances of pregnancy.

That he enjoys his work is purely a perk of the job, he insists.

Of course I like sex. Its a creative thing, he says. The women enjoy it, too. Some of them have told me.

Some experts, however, such as the internationally renowned andrologist Professor Allan Pacey, who received an MBE for services to reproductive science in 2016, see Albon as nothing but a predator, who uses his unproven claims simply as a ruse to have sex.

Not an unreasonable assessment, many would agree. Yet, Albons riposte? Of course he doesnt like me. Maybe he sees me as a competitor.

Robert Albon, who calls himself Joe Donor, claims to have fathered more than 180 children all over the world from China to Australia

Rob Albon does not and could not support all of his children financially

Elon Musk has fathered at least 12 children. Pictured with his son X  A-12

Albon arrived from his native America in the UK in 2020, and has fathered around 40 children here since. However the majority of his offspring are in the States and Argentina, where he also lived and worked as a translator.

During a 30-year marriage in the US, he had two children: a daughter Mimi, 29, who has decried him as manipulative and dangerous, and a son. Both children are now estranged from him.

Of Mimi he says: She is very strong-willed and independent. I applaud this. We have different views socially and politically; weve had many disagreements but Ive never manipulated her.

He fails to grasp that Mimis denunciation of him is due to his activities as a donor and, specifically to a recent court judgment against him, when the whole world learned what hed been doing  and the true number of her half-siblings out there.

The judgment came in February after, in an unprecedented move, a family court judge in Cardiff made his name public in order to warn vulnerable women about the threat he poses.

Before then, while working as a donor  charging 100 per donation plus expenses  he hid his true identity under an alias, using the pseudonym Joe Donor.

Yet in 2023 he applied for parental rights, and to be named on the birth certificate, of a child he fathered to a same-sex couple, via sperm donation, when he first arrived in the UK.

The women objected, and the case ended up before the court, where they described how their encounter with Albon wrecked their lives.

Rob Albon advertised his sperm donation services on Facebook under the alias Joe Donor

He poses with some of the equipment he used to ship semen across America

It led to the breakdown of their relationship, they said, and mental health struggles for the biological mother, who suffered from anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts.

Its normally unheard of for a father to be named in a family court, but Jonathan Furness KC, sitting as a deputy high court judge, described Albon as man with a complete absence of sensitivity or empathy, who is wholly self-centred and will stop at nothing to obtain what he wants.

Albon remains unapologetic: Its ridiculous, he says. The judge is definitely wrong. A child has the right to an accurate birth record. My name should have been on the birth certificate but another persons name was on it and she had no right to be there.

That is the law, but the judge said nothing wrong had happened.

Smiley and charming  when he wants to be, he has a way of expressing his troubling beliefs as if they were absolute facts.

You can see how the impressionable might be won over by his decisiveness.

Often during our interview in a London hotel, he oscillates between obfuscation and absolute dogmatic certainty.

He is vague, for instance, about when he graduated from university, but convinced of his grasp of the law and medicine.

He objects that the judge publicly identified him: There was no reason to name me. Even a private donor in a clinic has a right to remain anonymous.

And he has a habit of turning the tables on his detractors, accusing them of the faults they observe in him: I have empathy... he is describing himself: he lacks empathy. He said Im controlling but he wants to control me through this negative judgment.

He said he was naming me to protect women from me, but it drew me to the attention of more people who wanted my help.

Since the judgment against him, he insists he has, in fact, scaled down his activities as a donor, although his Facebook page is still live and he is happy to provide siblings for existing recipients.

Instead, he has now turned his amateur attention to the law.

He is operating as a McKenzie Friend, charging 50-60 per hour to help litigants who cannot afford legal representation in the family courts.

I advocate for the unrepresented, most often fathers trying to get access to their children, sometimes in care proceedings. I help with appeals. Ive had successes with family law, he says.

Would anyone want such a man batting for their side? It is hard to see how.

The last time the Daily Mail interviewed Albon, hed moved in with one of his British recipients, Ellie Ellison, 33.

Their transactional relationship became personal after he supplied his sperm  by two sessions of natural insemination  for her second child in 2021.

In a jaw-dropping interview, they spoke of their hopes of marrying and raising a family together, but within six months or so, before the baby was even born, they had split up. Albon has never seen his son who is now four years old.

The fault, he says predictably, was Ellies. Maybe I didnt know her very well, he observes without irony.

When I first got into a relationship with her she said: You are welcome to continue being a donor and to have natural intercourse with other women.

She said she didnt mind as long as no feelings were involved. But later I discovered she was not that tolerant. She started to object.

Small wonder, you may think, but Albon still insists the blame lies with her.

She said I could do natural insemination then she changed her mind. I didnt tell her that I was going to stop.

Did Ellie issue you with an ultimatum? No, no, no, he objects. There were criticisms from her family, who were quite unhappy to see her with me.

Quite extraordinarily, he does not concede that the familys lack of enthusiasm for him as a prospective husband for Ellie was down to him having no-strings-attached sex with strangers, to make them pregnant.

Absolutely not, he insists: No, it was because I was more capable than Ellies former partner and her grandmother, who raised her, saw her slipping away. So she said, How can you be with him with all the stuff he does? But the real reason she was so critical was jealousy.

I ask if he will try to see the child he has with Ellie. Im not ready to take her on in a legal battle. I have seen the biases of the courts, he says darkly.

He is, at once, intelligent and astonishingly lacking in self-awareness. It is a combustible mix.

Adopted, with a twin brother who died, aged 20, in a motorbike accident, his adoptive parents were conservative; his mother a housewife and a proselytising Episcopalian Christian.

The family moved from West Virginia to West Africa with his fathers work in the Foreign Service when Rob was a child, and he attended missionary school there, imbuing the pro-natal belief that humanity must propagate and multiply.

Back in the USA he took his first degree in theoretical linguistics at Wisconsin-Madison University, then attended the Mormon Brigham Young University in Utah, where he studied for  but failed to complete  a masters degree.

He says he is fluent in Chinese, Japanese, French and Spanish, and that he has served in an elite unit of paratroopers, claiming not to remember precisely when: It seems like a different life.

While at university he met the woman who was to become his wife. They were together for 30 years yet he admits  with breathtaking insouciance  that he fathered several children outside their marriage before, covertly, becoming a sperm donor.

There were a few illegitimate children here and there, he says with such breezy indifference he could be describing the acquisition of a succession of cars.

I was just a person going through life. I didnt think about it much.

A lot of men would be extremely upset if they found out the women theyd been having affairs with were pregnant. But I felt satisfied. One woman wanted to get rid of the baby and I had to convince her not to abort it.

I bought her an apartment so she could have the child. I dont think it is right to kill babies. But it wasnt like I was planning to marry her. I didnt even want to be with her. It wasnt that kind of relationship.

It seems almost redundant to ask if he ever sees the child he persuaded the mother not to abort, but he confirms: No, she got married to someone else and moved on with her life so we lost touch.

Drill down into the reasons for his infidelity  and the subsequent urge to donate sperm  and he says: Most often people cheat because there is something emotional missing in their relationship. They may not feel noticed or appreciated. That wasnt the case for me.

And sex was not an issue. I never felt that was lacking.

I just felt the need for more children. My wife wanted two. That was enough for her but I wanted more  and I wasnt going to leave her just because she didnt want any more children.

So 20 years into his marriage  around 2010  his solution was to become a sperm donor, communicating at first with prospective clients on Yahoo messenger. Then, with the advent of Facebook, he says the surge in demand was monumental.

Its easy to see why women who are desperate to have children but cannot afford treatment in a regulated, licensed clinic  where, in the US, a cycle of IVF can cost up to 15,000, and 5,000 in the UK  turn to him.

Yet, inevitably word got back to his long-suffering wife. She was angry, as you can imagine. She made a decision: she could not tolerate it.

Does he feel any remorse? I can see it isnt a very nice thing to do to your partner, he admits with understatement. But I got married when I was quite young. It was a different world. I came from a conservative background and if you wanted sex you had to be married.

They separated, but it was not actually until shortly before he arrived in the UK five years ago that their divorce came through.

Meanwhile, he has left a trail of destruction in his wake. There is an arrest warrant for him in Wisconsin, USA, for six counts of not paying support for a child born from one of his sperm donations.

I have not met that child and I dont know the full circumstances, he prevaricates, but youre innocent until proven guilty.

Despite the fact that he has embraced fatherhood on an epic scale, he has no relationship with his legitimate offspring.

Yet he says he still harbours a hope that they might be reconciled: One day theyll have their own children and maybe theyll want to see me.

Of the 190 children he has fathered, he says he is in touch with 50 or 60 of them.

I meet them in person for an hour or two. Every week I see one of them. We go to a restaurant, play. Im a fun guy! Its like being an uncle.

He does not  could not  support them financially, of course.

And he is still seeking that illusory woman to settle down with. I ask if there is anyone on the horizon.

There could be, he says cryptically. Its a very firm maybe.

It is a measure of his compulsion to populate the planet that he is still seeking a partner of child-bearing age: I probably wouldnt be involved with anyone who is too old to have kids. I might want another one, one day, he says, unrepentant to the last.
In Vatican City, 133 cardinals have this week begun the highly secretive process to elect a new leader of the global Catholic church, following the death of Pope Francis last month.

The centuries-old conclave ritual will, at some point in the coming days, see a puff of white smoke leak from the chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel, signalling a new pope has been chosen.

While the conclave might appear an exclusively male affair, women remain excluded in the Catholic church's upper hierarchy - they will play a crucial role in ensuring the process of choosing a new pope runs smoothly.

As the cardinals, the most geographically diverse conclave in the faith's 2,000-year history, prepare to sequester from the outside world, they will be supported throughout by Vatican City insiders, including a dedicated team of nuns who help with everything from accommodation to food.

From now until the moment a new leader is elected, the sisters at the Domus Sanctae Marthae, a 100-suite guesthouse in Vatican City that is currently housing the cardinals, will run the tightest of ships when it comes to cooking and cleaning.

Dishes served to sustain them during the process will be prepared by the women, with local Italian dishes from the Lazio and Abruzzo regions likely on the menu.

Italian staples such as spaghetti, minestrone and simple meat dishes including lamb skewers, known as arrosticini, with vegetables will be prepared for the 133 men, although they won't be allowed napkins for fear of secrets being penned and squirrelled out.

The kind of meals eaten by the cardinals during the historic rituals were depicted on several occasions in the film adaptation of Robert Harris' book Conclave.

Isabella Rossellini played Sister Agnes in the 2024 film, which scooped best picture at this year's BAFTAs.

The kitchen and dining room scenes in the film, which starred Ralph Fiennes in the lead role, showed the quiet power possessed by the nuns, who enable the conclave to happen without a glitch.

133 men may be charged with choosing the next pope as the conclave gets underway at Vatican City - but women play a significant role in proceedings too. Pictured: Isabella Rossellini playing Sister Agnes in 2024 film Conclave

Cardinals pictured attending a mass for the election of the Roman Pontiff, prior to the start of the conclave, at St Peter's Basilica on May 7th

Whoever is elected when the white smoke finally rises will likely have some historic decisions ahead of them, with Conclave author Robert Harris saying that allowing women a more prominent role within the Catholic church is likely to be a 'big issue' for whoever gets the top job.

Speaking on Sky's The News Hour with Mark Austin this week, Harris said that whoever Pope Francis' successor is, he's likely to face pressure to take a more inclusive approach to women.

He told the programme: 'In the 21st century, can it really be the case that Christ did not intend half the world's population to play a full role in spreading his word?'

Author Harris also suggested that the papacy's wealth might also face scrutiny, saying the gospel's 'necessity to get rid of all worldly wealth' didn't sit well with Vatican City's pomp and grandeur.

Harris said: 'When I compared that to the reality of the Vatican, it's hard not to be struck by the contrast.'

Cardinals involved in the process have already surrendered their cellphones and will be forbidden from accessing communications until they find a new leader for the 1.4 billion-member church.

Francis named 108 of the 133 'princes of the church,' choosing many pastors in his image from far-flung countries like Mongolia, Sweden and Tonga that had never had a cardinal before.

His decision to surpass the usual limit of 120 cardinal electors and include younger ones from the 'global south' - those often marginalized countries with lower economic clout - has injected an unusual degree of uncertainty in a process that is always full of mystery and suspense.

Pope France pictured with the Daughters of Charity nuns from the Domus Sanctae Marthae at Vatican City; the women are responsible for preparing accommodation and food for the cardinals during the conclave

The pope hotel: Domus Sanctae Marthae is a guesthouse just a few hundred yards from the Sistine Chapel, with many of the cardinals staying there until a new pope is chosen

Back in 2013, white smoke was seen rising from the chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel, indicating that the cardinals had elected a new pope

Hailing from 70 countries, the cardinals will be sequestered from the outside world

Cardinals during a holy mass for the Election of the Roman Pontiff at St Peter's Basilica in The Vatican

Cardinals will take part in a Mass at St Peter's Basilica and will later walk to the Sistine Chapel to cast their votes under Michelangelo's frescoes

Your browser does not support iframes.

Many hadn't met one another until last week and lamented they needed more time to get to know one another, raising questions about how long it might take for one man to secure the two-thirds majority, or 89 ballots, necessary to become the 267th pope.

'Wait and see, a little patience, wait and see,' said Cardinal Mario Zenari, the Vatican's ambassador to Syria as he arrived for the final day of pre-vote discussions.

The cardinals begin the day by participating in a final pre-conclave Mass in St. Peter's Basilica. The dean of the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re, celebrates the Mass, which is meant to pray for cardinals to find the wisdom, counsel and understanding to elect a worthy new shepherd.

Re, 91, had presided at Francis' funeral, delivering a heartfelt sermon recalling history's first Latin American pope and the reforming 12-year papacy he oversaw.

At 4.30pm local time the cardinals walk solemnly into the frescoed Sistine Chapel, chanting the meditative 'Litany of the Saints' and the Latin hymn 'Veni Creator,' imploring the saints and the Holy Spirit to help them pick a pope.

Once there, they pledge to maintain secrecy about what is about to transpire and to not allow 'any interference, opposition or any other form of intervention' from outsiders to influence their voting.

Standing before Michelangelo's vision of heaven and hell in 'The Last Judgment,' each cardinal places his hand on the Gospel and swears to carry out that duty 'so help me God and these Holy Gospels, which I touch with my hand.'

After the cardinals take their oaths, a senior cardinal delivers a meditation. The master of papal liturgical ceremonies, Archbishop Diego Ravelli, calls out 'Extra omnes,' Latin for 'all out.'

Anyone not eligible to vote then leaves and the chapel doors close, allowing the work to begin.

The cardinals don't have to take a first vote on Wednesday, but they usually do. Assuming no winner is found, the Vatican said black smoke could be expected out of the Sistine Chapel chimney at around 7 p.m.

The cardinals retire for the night and return Thursday morning. They can hold up to two ballots in the morning and two in the afternoon until a winner is found.

While cardinals this week said they expected a short conclave, it will likely take at least a few rounds of voting.

For the past century, it has taken between three and eight ballots to find a pope. John Paul I - the pope who reigned for 33 days in 1978 - was elected on the third ballot. His successor, John Paul II, needed eight. Francis was elected on the fifth in 2013.
King Charles and Queen Camilla looked delighted as they kicked off their first garden party of the season today.

The monarch, 76, looked dapper in his grey and baby blue three-piece suit as he looked out over thousands of people who arrived for the event at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday afternoon.

Queen Camilla, 77, looked typically elegant in a rich satin blue and white lace dress, complete with a stylish wide-brimmed hat and sensible kitten heels.

The pair beamed as they walked around the picturesque gardens, chatting and greeting their many guests who were all dressed up for the elegant occasion.

The king seemed unfazed by the Duke of Sussex's interview with the BBC last Friday, in which he claimed that Charles 'won't speak to me because of this security stuff' and alluded to the King's health by saying 'I don't know how much longer my father has left'.

Harry, 40, went to court hoping to change the decision to give him downgraded security after Megxit - however, he lost the case and claimed it was an 'establishment stitch-up'. The ruling has prevented him from getting automatic taxpayer-funded police protection in the UK.

Speaking about the king, the father-of-two also said 'I don't know how long he [my father] has left,' along with claiming that some members of the Royal Family 'may never forgive me for writing a book'. Harry also added that there have been 'many disagreements' between himself and some members of the Firm.

Nonetheless, King Charles and Queen Camilla remained committed to their roles as senior working royals and continued carrying out their duties without responding to Harry's emotional interview.

The monarch, 76, looked dapper in his grey and baby blue three-piece suit as he looked out over thousands of people who arrived for the event at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday afternoon

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh and Princess Anne were also in attendance on Wednesday afternoon

King Charles appeared unbothered by Prince Harry's comments as they kicked off their first garden party of the season

The Duke of Sussex at the Royal Courts of Justice on April 8 during his appeal against a High Court ruling preventing him getting automatic taxpayer-funded police protection in the UK

However, a Buckingham Palace spokesperson replied to Harry's bombshell claims last week and said: 'All of these issues have been examined repeatedly and meticulously by the courts, with the same conclusion reached on each occasion.'

On Wednesday, Charles and Camilla were joined by the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh for the event, who have upped their presence in the royal fold since Harry and Meghan left the UK for sunny Montecito.

The Queen patted a guide dog, saying she was 'honoured' to meet him, as she and the King hosted thousands of guests at a Buckingham Palace Garden Party.

Camilla, in a teal blue crepe dress with a cream lace insert by Christian Dior, matching hat by Philip Treacy and turquoise and diamond brooch that belonged to the late Queen Elizabeth, bent down to tickle Haworth's tummy after spotting him in the crowd.

'I've had him seven years, he's my fifth guide dog, but he's the first one to meet the Queen,' said his owner Jeanette Binns, an equalities and cohesion officer at Lancashire County Council.

'Well I'm very honoured to meet him,' replied the Queen, smiling.

Queen Camilla greets guest Jeanette Binns with her guide dog, Haworth, at the garden party

Camilla bent down to tickle Haworth's tummy after spotting him in the crowd on Wednesday afternoon

Prince Edward, pictured, also held onto an umbrella as he joined his brother for the garden party

The Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie opted for a monochrome look, wearing a black and white floral patterned frock along with a matching fascinator, whereas Edward looked smart in his three-piece suit complete with a black top hat

Sophie was animated as ever while chatting to guests who attended the Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace

Anne, meanwhile, opted for a dusky teal blue ensemble and was seen chatting with guests at the event

Charles was dapper in his suit and waistcoat, teamed with a top hat, for today's garden party event

Camilla, in a teal blue crepe dress with a cream lace insert by Christian Dior, matching hat by Philip Treacy and turquoise and diamond brooch that belonged to the late Queen Elizabeth, bent down to tickle Haworth's tummy after spotting him in the crowd

Their Majesties were joined by the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, the Princess Royal (pictured) and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester for the first of four Garden Parties taking place at the Palace this summer

Anne sported an ornate head piece for the garden party, which took place this afternoon at the Palace

Charles, smiling, was animated as he chatted with the respected guests in attendance at the event

Camilla, sporting white gloves, also carried an umbrella for the unpredictable weather this afternoon

Anne, the Princess Royal, kept to pastel hues as she attended the garden party at the Palace today

Duchess Sophie accessorised her black and white look with a matching hat, which featured lace detailing

She collected her blonde tresses back into loose waves, and kept her make-up look simple and elegant

'He did pile it on a bit,' Jeanette said of Haworth afterwards. 'He knows how to impress. I've always said he's an attention seeker, he's gone up a notch with this.'

The Queen also commented on a striking pair of My Little Pony shoes worn by China Morgan, yard manager at Ebony Horse Club in Brixton, South London.

'Oh look at that, very cool,' said Camilla, who is President of the charity.

Sid Holdsworth, the charity's COO said: 'It's really exciting to be here, we are extremely grateful for the invitation. The Queen is a very supportive President.'

Their Majesties were joined by the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, the Princess Royal and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester for the first of four Garden Parties taking place at the Palace this summer.

King's Foundation and CHANEL Millinery Student Jessica Turley has designed a pillbox style hat in sinamay for The Duchess of Gloucester.

Jess is a student on The King's Foundation and CHANEL Millinery Fellowship in partnership with Le19M, based at Highgrove Gardens.

The King's Foundation is a charity founded by His Majesty and works to build sustainable communities and transform lives, including through teaching traditional heritage skills at risk of being lost, such as millinery.

The Duke of Gloucester spoke to guests during the Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace today

The Duke, much like Charles and Edward, opted for a top hat as he joined in the Garden Party festivities

The Duchess of Gloucester, pictured, was also in attendance at the party, sporting an all-black ensemble

The Duchess accessorised her monochrome look with a pearl necklace and flower-shaped earrings

Charles was in high spirits as he greeted guests during the party at Buckingham Palace this afternoon

The Queen was all smiles as she joined her husband, King Charles, at the garden party this afternoon

The Princess Royal, and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, were among the family members to join Charles and Camilla

The King, looking very sharp in a hat, beamed as he spoke to attendees during the garden party today

The King, who wore a cornflower in his buttonhole and a blue tie, stopped to chat to the Venerable James Ridge, who was appointed as a Chaplain to the King in January, and the Reverend Ruth Ridge.

He also spoke to Messenger Sergeant Major William Tuffs, of the King's Body Guard of the Yeomen of the Guard, who is retiring after a 56 year military career.

'I joined the Coldstream Guards in 1969 aged 15 and have been in the Body Guard for 28 years,' he said after meeting the monarch.

During his time as a Beefeater, William participated in the funerals of the Queen Mother, Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth, as well as King's Coronation.

Yeomen of the Guard also provide symbolic security at events such as Garden Parties.

'It's fantastic, it's such a pleasure to work at a garden party because people here are enjoying themselves,' William said.

'The King was saying about the many years I have served the Crown. He said 'enjoy your retirement'.'

William, who attended with wife Ceri, also served with the Territorial Army and Bedfordshire Police and now volunteers as a lifeguard at the swimming pool at Keech Hospice Care in Luton, Beds.

Guests enjoyed a selection of cakes and sandwiches with their tea, followed by ice cream. They were entertained by bands from the Welsh Guards and the Royal Marines Commando Training Centre, who played familiar tunes from shows including Oliver! Cats, Jesus Christ Superstar and Phantom of the Opera

Up to 8,000 guests attend each Garden Party, drinking on average more than 27,000 cups of tea and tucking into 20,000 sandwiches and 20,000 cakes

Guests come from all walks of life, with many wearing uniform or national dress instead of suits and dresses

Guests enjoyed a selection of cakes and sandwiches with their tea, followed by ice cream. They were entertained by bands from the Welsh Guards and the Royal Marines Commando Training Centre, who played familiar tunes from shows including Oliver! Cats, Jesus Christ Superstar and Phantom of the Opera.

Up to 8,000 guests attend each Garden Party, drinking on average more than 27,000 cups of tea and tucking into 20,000 sandwiches and 20,000 cakes.

Guests come from all walks of life, with many wearing uniform or national dress instead of suits and dresses.

Elsewhere, the Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie opted for a monochrome look, wearing a black and white floral patterned frock along with a matching fascinator, whereas Edward looked smart in his three-piece suit complete with a black top hat.

And Princess Anne was also in attendance, sporting a chic metallic sky blue ensemble consisting of an overcoat and sapphire blue gloves.

The King was also introduced to a group of social media content creators, including swimwear model and 'cancer thriver' Kelly Crump and her partner Edward and gardening influencers Martha Swales and Joe Clark.

Elsewhere Princess Anne was amused by photographs of 'Mr and Mrs Ovary', friends Craig McMurrough, 54, and Sarah Temple, 49, who take part in marathons across the UK and overseas dressed as giant ovaries.

'Do you run around like that?' asked Anne, laughing. 'Good of you not to turn up like that.'

Charles and Camilla beamed as they walked around the picturesque gardens, chatting and greeting their many guests who were all dressed up for the elegant occasion

The king seemed unfazed by the Duke of Sussex's interview with the BBC last Friday, in which he claimed that Charles 'won't speak to me because of this security stuff'

Queen Camilla, 77, looked typically elegant in a rich satin blue and white lace dress, complete with a stylish wide-brimmed hat and sensible kitten heels

Thousands of guests gathered at Buckingham Palace for the first garden party of the season

King Charles and Queen Camilla continued carrying out their royal duties without responding to Harry's BBC interview

The friends have raised more than 100,000 for the charity Ovacome, which supports women diagnosed with ovarian cancer, since Craig's sister Cheryl Earnshaw, a mother of two, sadly lost her life to the disease aged 43 in 2016.

He said after meeting the Princess, 'She couldn't believe we run in those outfits and she said 'you won't get me running a marathon'.'

Earlier on Wednesday, Charles undertook a royal first on Wednesday - hopping on a hybrid Thames Clippers 'Uber boat' for his commute to work.

His Majesty looked delighted with the variation from his State Bentley on a sunny, although slightly gusty, day in London with the famous skyline including the Houses of Parliament behind him. He arrived on the floating pier at Westminster with minimal fanfare, where he undertook a short meet and greet with executives accompanied by the Lord Lieutenant of London, Sir Kenneth Olisa.

'Am I going to get into the right boat? There are so many to choose from,' Charles joked, as he walked past another full of commuters and tourists just departing.

On board the battery-powered 'Mars Clipper' he was introduced to employees and apprentices during his ten minute journey to the Thames Tideway Tunnel project.

On route, he learnt more about the positive impact the hybrid vessel - one of three in the fleet - has on London's water artery.

Uber Boats serves 24 piers across the capital in 10-20 minute intervals and Thames Clippers has been heavily investing in hybrid and hydrogen-powered vessels.

The King undertook a royal first on Wednesday - hopping on a hybrid Thames Clippers ' Uber boat' for his commute to work

His Majesty looked delighted as he had the famous skyline including the Houses of Parliament behind him

Charles was introduced to employees and apprentices during his ten minute journey to the Thames Tideway Tunnel project

Andy Mitchell, CEO of sewer builders Tideway, then invited him to unveil a plaque commemorating his visit

On the Uber boat, he learnt more about the positive impact the hybrid vessel - one of three in the fleet - has on London's water artery

'It's a nice way [to travel],' said the monarch, admiringly.

'Is this just one of a number of these vessels?'

Smoothing his hair and admiring the view as they powered along the water, the King chatted enthusiastically about the new technology that powered the fleet.

As it pulled into dock he remarked: 'Fantastic,' and then, spotting Sir Ken disembarking with him dressed in his full formal finery he said: 'Take care your spurs don't caught in that!'

The second part of his visit took him to the Thames Tideway Tunnel project - known as London's 'super sewer' - at Bazalgette Embankment.

Following ten years of construction the 25km-long sewer has now been switched on to protect the River Thames and was officially opened by the king.

The new system can store the equivalent of 640 Olympic swimming pools of sewage and has already captured more than six million tonnes of storm sewage since February.

The original Victorian system was designed for a population of just four million and while still in workable condition, has struggled to cope with population growth and rainfall caused by climate change.

He also met with some of the 25,000-strong construction workforce who have been involved in the project, which is still ongoing

King Charles appeared to be in high spirits as he visited the eco-friendly project on Wednesday

Accompanied by the Secretary of State for Environment, Steve Reed, Charles toured the site and viewed a live tracker displaying the tonnage of sewage taken by the tunnel.

'Are you going to finish it and then do something else?' asked the King.

He also met with some of the 25,000-strong construction workforce who have been involved in the project, which is still ongoing.

He patted one man on the arm as he told him his family was back in India. 'They are all well, I hope? he asked.

'Have you got the crane?' he asked another.

The King also walked through a 'mini park' planted for the local community and visitors including 71 trees and 3,000 plants.

Standing by several giant ventilation funnels for the sewer inscribed with poetry, Charles viewed the vista admiringly.

Andy Mitchell, CEO of sewer builders Tideway, then invited him to unveil a plaque commemorating his visit.

The King also walked through a 'mini park' planted for the local community and visitors including 71 trees and 3,000 plants

Charles greeted poet Dorothea Smartt, whose poetry about the Thames is printed on the ventilation columns on the new tunnel

King Charles also watched a video explaining how the new Tideway Thames tunnel works

The monarch beamed as he spoke with Sir David Attenborough while the pair posed for pictures together on Tuesday evening

He said: 'It's taken over ten years of work from an awful lot of people to get where we are now. It's a huge feat of engineering, something we are very proud of. We have created a lot jobs, new spaces and a cleaner river along the way. We hope what we have done here will show to others what can be done.'

Afterwards he added: 'The king was fascinated with detail and the quality of the space, as well as the humanity of it with all the planting. The team were absolutely thrilled with his comments on the quality of the work here. In an average year there are 40 million tonnes [of sewage] and we will be preventing the vast majority of that from going into the river.'

Charles greeted poet Dorothea Smartt, whose poetry about the Thames is printed on the ventilation columns on the new tunnel.

The King is known for his love of nature and passion for bringing about conversations about climate change, first speaking about the dangerous effects of plastic pollution on the environment when he was 21 years old in 1970.

In 2023, he famously said that the 'world does not belong to us' at Cop28 in Dubai, adding that his grandchildren, Prince Louis, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Princess Lilibet and Prince Archie would be living with the effects of our warming planet.

Tideway say that everyone it rains, its high-tech computers calculate how much sewage is filling the tunnel network instead of spilling into the river.

This month, the new super sewer was connected to the Lee Tunnel, which has been operation since 2016 and runs from Stratford to East Ham, completing the full London Tideway Tunnel network.

The new tunnel will protect the Thames from sewage pollution, with Tideway data showing that a whopping 6,790,231 cubic meters of dirty water has been diverted away from the river since August 2024.

This visit comes after Charles attended the world premiere of Sir David Attenborough's new documentary - Ocean - on Tuesday evening.

The royal, 76, was suited and booted for the special event and looked dapper in his black tux as he stepped out at the Royal Festival Hall in London.

Charles was seen greeting people and waving at wellwishers as he made his way down the blue carpet.

The monarch also beamed as he spoke with Sir David while the pair posed for pictures together.

The legendary environmental broadcaster, 98, has his latest documentary which releases on his 99th birthday on Thursday.

The King and Sir David are thought to have a close relationship, as the presenter was also good friends with his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth.
It comes after this year's event was blasted as 'forgettable' and 'dead'

Anna Wintour is being advised to step down from the Met Gala by a leading PR expert after this year's event was blasted as 'forgettable' and declared 'dead' by spectators across the globe.

The biggest night in fashion took place at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City on Monday but failed to deliver the star power and glamour of years past.

The 2025 theme - Superfine: Tailoring Black Style - presented an opportunity for 'boundary-pushing' looks, but big names such as Kim Kardashian, Hailey Bieber, and Kendall Jenner, struggled to stand out in their unremarkable looks.

Now, leading PR expert Sarah Schmidt has advised Wintour to end her three-decade reign and pass on the baton in a bid to introduce 'radical imagination.'

Speaking exclusively to DailyMail.com, Schmidt, who is the President of Interdependence, suggested that Wintour stepping down from the Met Gala could be the 'most strategic move.'

She pointed out that in doing so, she would not only be able to walk away 'with her legacy intact' but also uphold the Met Gala's prestige and prevent it from becoming a 'relic.'

Schmidt said: 'If Anna Wintour were to step down now, it could be the most strategic move of her career  a final act that reasserts her power by knowing when to pass the torch.

'This year's Met Gala was polished but forgettable, and that's the problem. When fashion's biggest night feels safe, it stops shaping culture and starts chasing it.'

Anna Wintour is being advised to step down from the Met Gala by a leading PR expert

The Vogue editor-in-chief has been the Met Gala Chair since 1995 (pictured at the Met Gala on Monday night)

Vogue editor-in-chief Wintour has been the Met Gala chair or co-chair since 1995, although skipped duties in 1996.

In 2023, actress Julia Fox hit out at Wintour and the Met Gala and called for her to step down.

In an explosive interview with DailyMail.com at the time, she said: 'To be honest with you, the Met Gala has never spoken to me - I mean look at who is running it.

'If it was about fashion, I'd be there but it's not,' she went on. 'It's about politics, privilege, who your parents are and how much money you make.'

'She [Anna Wintour] just won't quit - how long is she going to keep going?' Julia added.

PR expert Schmidt argued that Julia's viewpoint of Wintour and the Met Gala being 'stale' was a fair assessment.

'Julia Fox wasn't wrong to call it stale, she was just early,' she continued. 'A new curator could inject the risk, relevance and radical imagination that Gen Z craves, while Anna exits with her legacy intact.

'And in a hyper-social era where TikTok sets trends faster than couture can catch up, even the format of the Met Gala may need a reboot: less fortress, more feed.

Kim Kardashian dressed in a black crocodile-like leather gown by Chrome Hearts

Hailey Bieber opted for a Saint Laurent blazer, platform mule stiletto's, and YSL branded tights

'The bigger risk is holding on too long and watching the institution she built become a relic of past relevance.'

As it currently stands, there are no whisperings on whether Wintour intends to step down from her Met Gala chair duties.

In an interview with Good Morning America which aired on Monday morning, Wintour told co-anchor Michael Strahan about the pressure of the job.

She said: 'Each one is very different.

'And this one has been, I think, particularly meaningful and emotional and has a real heightened sense of purpose, because of the times that we're living in.'
Blakely Thornton has left Met Gala fans in stitches with his brutal commentary about Kim Kardashian's outfit on the night.

The internet personality, 39, took to TikTok to share his damning review of the star's ensemble which consisted of a leather bodycon dress with matching fedora by Chrome Hearts.

Kim, 44, accessorized with several diamond necklaces which cascaded down her chest along with matching dangling earrings - but not even the glitz and glamor could win Thornton over.

In the clip, Thornton - who describes himself as a 'pop culture anthropologist' - did little to hide his disappointment as the millionaire posed for pictures at the iconic event in New York City.

His usually upbeat demeanor took a hit when Kim was guided up the iconic steps on the red carpet.

'Oh lord, oh lord,' Thornton exclaimed, before groaning loudly, per a video from The Cut.

'No, no, no, no, no, no, no. She not talking to nobody, she not talking to nobody. Oh my god.'

Someone behind Thornton called out, 'Kim! Show us the look! Kim! Show us the look!' to which Thornton responded, 'I don't think so.'

Blakely Thornton has left Met Gala fans in stitches with his wild commentary about Kim Kardashian 's outfit on the night

In the clip, Thornton - who describes himself as a 'pop culture anthropologist' - did little to hide his disappointment as the millionaire posed for pictures at the iconic event in New York City

And viewers were left in hysterics over Thornton's reaction, as one person wrote: 'This is the ONLY appropriate reaction.'

'The "ughhhhh" is so real,' a user wrote.

'She never gets the assignment. Ever,' someone shared.

Another wrote: 'He's sooo bored with her!'

One user said, 'Who is this guy, he needs a raise ASAP!!'

'Extend his contract and give him a raise,' someone else wrote.

'I can FEEL the eye roll he's probably giving and I'm living for it,' a comment read.

Earlier in the night, Kim was caught scolding a security guard after he caused her to take an awkward tumble as she headed into the Met Gala 2025 with 11-year-old daughter North.

The internet personality, 39, took to TikTok to share his damning review of the star's ensemble which consisted of a leather bodycon dress with matching fedora by Chrome Hearts

Kim, 44, accessorized with several diamond necklaces which cascaded down her chest along with matching dangling earrings - but not even the glitz and glamor could win Thornton over

She faced a near-fall when a security guard accidentally stepped on her dress.

After stumbling forward, she angrily turned towards the man and said something to him before she held up her hand with a harsh look on her face.

The awkward moment was caught on camera and shared to TikTok.

Tension seemingly did not end there, as Kim glared back while hopping into a pick-up vehicle before hitting the famous steps at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Cristina Gheiceanu, from Switzerland, lost 1st and 10lbs after sending a voice note to ChatGPT every morning telling the AI programme what she ate and her calorie limit. She told her 400,000 followers on Instagram how she was able to shed the weight in just five months without using 'complicated apps'. The content creator said: 'I just sent a voice message to ChatGPT each morning with what I ate, how many calories I wanted to eat that day - and it did all the work. She told her 400,000 followers on Instagram how she was able to shed the weight in just five months without using 'complicated apps'.
Melissa Rivers, the daughter of late comedian Joan Rivers, is preparing for the ultimate tribute to her mom.

On May 13, NBC is airing Joan Rivers: A Dead Funny All-Star Tribute, a comedy special that was taped at the Apollo Theater in Harlem last November during the 20th annual New York Comedy Festival.

The show features some of the most famous stand-up comics, including Chelsea Handler, Nikki Glaser, Tiffany Haddish, Aubrey Plaza, and Rita Wilson, all highlighting Joan's epic, groundbreaking comedy.

Ahead of the special, Melissa, 57, dropped by the DailyMail.com office to talk about why the Fashion Police could never happen today, what she really thought about this year's Met Gala ensembles, and why fashion is simply not that serious.

On Monday, celebrities hit the carpet at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City for the annual Met Gala and leaned into the theme, which was Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, which explored Black dandyism from the 18th century to its revival during the Harlem Renaissance and its impact on fashion today.

The dress code was Tailored For You, which was a nod to menswear and suiting as seen in the exhibit at the Met. Viewers at home called the outfits 'underwhelming' and 'boring,' with many A-listers opting for basic black and white ensembles.

But Melissa loved the theme and said 'it's time that we had a men's lead in the theme,' especially since 'everything comes down to good tailoring.'

While the red carpet expert appreciated that 'the men did a great job,' Melissa also thought the theme 'was very confusing for the women, and a lot of the women looked like they could be looking great on any red carpet.'

Melissa Rivers, the daughter of late comedian Joan Rivers, is preparing for the ultimate tribute to her mom

Melissa, pictured above with her mom Joan in 2005, said 'there could never be a Fashion Police again' because 'everyone's too scared'

The New York City-born producer appreciated that Tracee Ellis Ross, Janelle Monae, and Mindy Kaling all 'took the theme, got the memo and took it to the next level because it is the Met Gala,' but was disappointed in some of the other ensembles.

'Zendaya wore a spectacular white suit,' Melissa complimented, but said it could be 'a spectacular white suit on any red carpet,' because it 'didn't have the Met spin.'

The star clarified she wasn't 'picking on Zendaya because she did nothing wrong,' adding that the Euphoria star 'is annoyingly perfect between the talent and the body and the looks and the styling,' joking 'it's aggravating at this point.'

Melissa believes many of the female attendees did not make their looks Met Gala-worthy because of 'confusion' around the 'tailoring and suiting,' as well as how to 'elevate it.'

While many fashion critics are attacked and even canceled for honestly critiquing looks, Melissa thinks the Met Gala 'is the one red carpet left where you can really give an opinion because it's meant to be over the top.'

'You are not going to see anything on the steps of the Met Gala that you will ever wear in your life.'

'It's a night of creativity and looking at fashion as art,' Melissa said.

On The Fashion Police on E! which ran for 14 season, Melissa and her mom were never afraid to voice their opinions about what people wore - sometimes savagely - but today, journalists and critics are often attacked for sharing negative views about celebrities.

'Zendaya wore a spectacular white suit,' Melissa complimented, but said it could be 'a spectacular white suit on any red carpet,' because it 'didn't have the Met spin'

Melissa appreciated that Tracee Ellis Ross (left), Janelle Monae (center), and Mindy Kaling (right) all 'took the theme, got the memo and took it to the next level'

Melissa, who has been open about what her mother would think about cancel culture, told DailyMail.com that 'there could never be a Fashion Police again' because 'everyone's too scared.'

Melissa and her iconic mother's approach to the wildly popular show was publicly saying what people would be telling their friends on the couch while watching red carpet coverage.

'Now we're in a place where everyone has to love it,' Melissa explained, adding that if they don't like an outfit, they have to go above and beyond to clarify they still like the actress or the designer so they don't offend anyone.

In the end, Melissa said, 'We're talking about something very shallow. We're talking about fashion and yes, people do sartorial messaging and things like that, but we're talking about art.'

Melissa summed it up: 'Art is meant to be critiqued, not personal.'
The Prince and Princess of Wales are 'deeply saddened' and have shared their condolences with families of wildlife rangers who were killed in an attack.

Tragically, two men - Domingos Daude and Fernando Paolo Wirsone - died, while Mario Cristovao was 'severely injured' after coming across an armed group at the Niassa Special Reserve in northern Mozambique. Two scouts remain unaccounted for.

Taking to Instagram, William and Kate first shared a statement from United for Wildlife, which the heir to the throne founded.

'We are deeply saddened to hear of the horrific attacks on the Niassa Special Reserve in northern Mozambique and the tragic passing of two of the Niassa Carnivore Project antipoaching scouts, Domingos Daude and Fernando Paolo Wirsone,' it read.

'Our heartfelt condolences go to the families and colleagues of Domingos and Fernando as well as the severely injured scout Mario Cristovao who we hope makes a full recovery.

'Our thoughts are also with the families of the two scouts that remain unaccounted for, we pray for their safe return and now the team in Niassa are doing everything possible to find them.

'Rangers are on the frontline of nature protection, and these devastating acts of violence are a stark reminder of the grave danger these individuals face on a daily basis.

This highlights the critical need to increase our efforts to support the crucial work of nature's guardians.'

The Prince and Princess of Wales are 'deeply saddened' and have shared their condolences with families of wildlife rangers who were killed in an attack. William pictured this week

William in another Story post added that the 'attack is yet another brutal reminder of the immense sacrifices made by those protecting our natural world'

The attack took place on April 29, when an armed group reportedly attacked Mariri Environmental and Skills Training Centre and the Niassa Carnivore Project (NCP) Headquarters in the southeastern Niassa Special Reserve - in northern Mozambique.

According to a joint statement from both the Niassa Carnivore Project and the Mariri Environmental Centre, the attack comes as a result of an insurgent group.

'This marks a troubling expansion of the ongoing conflict in northern Mozambique into one of Mozambique's most important protected areas,' the join release read.

'Our team and assets were evacuated from our camp on the 20th of April following an attack on the Kambako Safari camp by the same group on the 19th of April.

'Our antipoaching scouts were on site at Mariri to keep a presence, supported by soldiers of Forcas de Defesa e Seguranca de Mocambique. The attack happened between 5pm and 6pm.'

In the aftermath, residents of the nearby Mbamba Village were reportedly forced to run 'into the bush for safety'.

Taking to Instagram, William and Kate first shared a statement from United for Wildlife, which the heir to the throne founded

'Over the past three days, our team has worked tirelessly to find and support affected staff and community members and bring them to safety to Mecula, the district capital,' the statement added.

'We are grateful that the rest of our team are safe and we can provide them with the support they need. We send our heartfelt condolences and unwavering support to the families of Domingos and Fernando and to the families whose family members are still missing. We are all devastated.

'Our immediate priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of all affected. After that, we will rebuild and restart our work. Insecurity is deeply damaging - not only to conservation but also to the livelihoods of the ~ 70 000 people who call Niassa home and to tourism across the region.'

William in another Story post added that the 'attack is yet another brutal reminder of the immense sacrifices made by those protecting our natural world'.

'The reality is that being a ranger has become one of the most dangerous jobs on the planet,' he added. 'My thoughts are with all those affected and their families.'

William has long been an advocate for wildlife causes and conservation projects - and has supported the workers who champion it.

Just last week, to coincide with Their Royal Highnesses visit, The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales have announced its support for the Mull and Iona Ranger Service.

United for Wildlife, which was created by William, will fund two crucial new ranger roles and help to ensure the Isles natural beauty continues to be responsibly managed whilst keeping nature accessible to residents and visitors through education and engagement.

Pictured: Prince William meeting Lia the canine ranger who works on Signal Hill in Cape Town, in November

William has long been an advocate for wildlife causes and conservation projects - and has supported the workers who champion it. Pictured in 2016, during a visit to the Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation at Kaziranga National Park

Dr Tom Clements, Executive Director of Conservation, The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales commented: Rangers play a fundamental yet often misunderstood and overlooked role. They do far more than just protect wildlife. They are educators, community supporters, researchers and scientists. They preserve cultural heritage, and they help safeguard and regulate the sustainable use of natural resources.

As we face increasing threats to our planet and natural world, the role of rangers in rural communities like Mull and Iona is invaluable for protecting the landscapes and environment on which communities rely.

And in November, William joined Australian conservationist Robert Irwin, 20-year-old son of the late Steve Irwin, for a walk in Cape Town, while visiting South Africa for the Earthshot Prize awards - on which he also spoke with park rangers, firefighters, mountain rescue volunteers, biodiversity experts and youth volunteers.

They told him about the diversity of fauna and flora and the work they do to protect the environment while ensuring residents and tourists are able to enjoy the area.

William was met upon his arrival by Megan Taplin, park manager for Table Mountain National Park, and they also went on a walk to discuss local biodiversity.

He also met Cape Town City Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis and Bathandwa Diniso, a youth representative for South Africa National Parks (SANParks) Honorary Rangers.

Elsewhere last year, the royal also spoke of the importance of protecting wildlife at the Tusk Conservation Awards.

In a four-minute speech the Prince warned 'tonight is a reminder that our planet continues to face terrifying environmental concerns'.

He hailed the award winners for reminding 'us of the importance of living at peace with nature'.

And speaking of George, Charlotte and Louis, he said 'I want my children to live in a world where swallows still migrate, gorillas still live in the cloud forests of Uganda and rhinos still roam the arid rangelands of Namibia.'

William also presented the Prince William Award for Conservation in Africa to Nomba Gname, The Tusk Award for Conservation in Africa to Edward Aruna and the Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award to Claver Ntoyinkima.

The Tusk Conservation Awards are an annual event which recognises conservation leaders for their pioneering work protecting wildlife and supporting communities across Africa. William is patron of the awards.

The awards first took place more than a decade ago in 2013, thanks to the collaboration between the Prince of Wales and investors, Ninety One.

The ceremony, which is held at the world-famous Savoy hotel this evening, awarded three victors for their work in the field.

Speaking about the awards previously, William has said: 'These awards which mean a great deal to me personally, play a huge part in our mission to preserve Africa's precious wildlife for its people.'
The Danish King and Queen were the picture of elegance as they welcomed top international dignitaries to a glittering dinner at Kronborg Castle in Helsingor today.

The castle is famously known as the setting for Shakespeare's Hamlet.

King Frederik X and Queen Mary hosted the prestigious event in honour of the UN Chief Executives Board, the organisation's highest leadership and coordination body.

The mother-of-four looked ethereal in a flowing, baby blue floral midi dress, featuring a high neck and delicate pleating that caught the evening breeze.

She paired the ensemble with heels and a matching clutch, her brunette locks worn down.

Elsewhere, Frederik donned a tailored dark pinstripe suit with a copper-toned tie, standing proudly beside his wife as they posed for photographers on the cobbled courtyard.

Also in attendance was Danish actor Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, 54, best known for his role in Game of Thrones.

Coster-Waldau, who is also a UNDP Goodwill Ambassador, looked smart in a sharp navy suit and tie as he mingled with guests inside the historic venue.

King Frederik X of Denmark and Queen Mary of Denmark arrived to host an official dinner at Kronborg Castle

The royal couple arrived at Nordre Toldbod to board the royal ship Dannebrog in Copenhagen earlier the same day

Underneath a smart navy wrap blazer, Queen Mary wore a flowing, floral midi dress, featuring a high neck

Also turning heads at the dinner table was Danish supermodel Helena Christensen, 56, who looked striking in a sleek black floral dress.

The gathering at the Renaissance-era castle comes as the King and Queen made the annual move into their summer residence at Fredensborg Castle on Monday.

The couple, who usually stay in Amalienborg, Copenhagen, were all smiles as they took in the sunny weather and were welcomed by wellwishers as well as a brass ensemble.

Frederik X and his wife Mary were both delighted as they received a warm welcome to the palace's Chancellery House this afternoon.

The mother-of-four was effortlessly elegant in navy trousers and a breezy blue button-down, teamed with a light white coat.

She wore her chestnut tresses down, and opted for a glamorous make-up look for the occasion.

Danish actor Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, of Game Of Thrones, attended the dinner hosted by the Danish royal couple

The 54-year-old looked smart in a sharp navy suit and tie as he arrived at the star-studded event

Also in attendance was Danish model Helena Christensen, 56, who looked striking in a black dress adorned with silver florals

Elsewhere Frederik donned taupe chinos with a pastel blouse, topped with a checkered blazer.

The couple appeared to bring their Border Collie, Coco, along, and looked to be in high spirits as they made their arrival.

Mary held onto a bouquet of flowers as she and her husband both greeted members of the public, and enjoyed chatting.

Taking to social media, the King and Queen wrote: 'When spring soon turns into summer, and the trees around Fredensborg Castle turn green again, the Royal Family will traditionally move their residence to the Chancellery House.'

Fredensborg was built as a 'country seat' for Frederik IV and initially used in 1722, before being rebuilt and expanded.

Now, it is often the setting for 'important events' for the family, such as weddings, anniversaries and birthdays.
Celebrity chef Nigella Lawson has landed in Sydney - and she wasted no time heading straight to her favourite local institution, Fratelli Paradiso in Potts Point.

In a heartfelt post to Instagram, the British culinary icon described the Italian bistro as not just a regular stop, but a vital part of her philosophy for living well.

'My first stop in Sydney has to be Fratelli Paradiso. It's one of my rules for a good life,' she wrote.

'Walking through the doors after a year away just felt like coming home. I love everything about this place: great people, great mood, great food.'

While Nigella admitted the restaurant's dim lighting wasn't ideal for taking photos, she found a moment to capture the final course once her neighbouring table had cleared.

The dessert - the show-stopping Bombalaska - left her speechless.

'Behold the beauteous Bombalaska! I don't expect to eat a better pudding while I'm here, and I don't need to: I'll just keep coming back for this,' she wrote.

The dish features a base of hazelnut praline, pistachio semifreddo and lemon curd all tucked beneath a bronzed dome of flame-kissed Italian meringue.

Celebrity chef Nigella Lawson has landed in Sydney - and wasted no time heading straight to her favourite local institution, Fratelli Paradiso in Potts Point

'Behold the beauteous Bombalaska! I don't expect to eat a better pudding while I'm here, and I don't need to: I'll just keep coming back for this,' she wrote

In a heartfelt post to Instagram, the British culinary icon described the Italian bistro as not just a regular stop, but a vital part of her philosophy for living well

'Yes, I know! I swooned with each spoonful,' she added.

Before reaching that final, sugar-laced high, Nigella indulged in a meal that read like a greatest hits list.

She opened with her usual on-arrival order, Olive Ascolane - plump green olives stuffed with sharp cheese, breadcrumbed and deep fried.

That was followed by a tangle of bitter puntarelle dressed with anchovies, a serve of the restaurant's famed scampi spaghettini, and a thick pork chop paired with agretti (also known as monk's beard) and creamy white polenta.

'I did have help eating all this, by the way,' she joked, adding, 'purring with pleasure, and planning when I can come back for more.'

Fratelli Paradiso has long been a firm favourite of locals and celebrities alike.

With its dimly lit interiors, buzzing atmosphere and menu that balances Italian simplicity with refined indulgence, it's easy to see why the culinary queen keeps returning.

And for those chasing the Nigella-approved experience, one thing's clear - this Sydney dining room has become the city's most delicious welcome home.

Fratelli Paradiso has long been a firm favourite of locals and celebrities alike

With its dimly lit interiors, buzzing atmosphere and menu that balances Italian simplicity with refined indulgence, it's easy to see why the culinary queen keeps returning

Earlier this week, the much-loved British food icon first touched down in Western Australia and declared a tiny Margaret River winery one of her favourite places on Earth.

Taking to Instagram, Nigella shared a swoon-worthy post about her long lunch at Cullen Wines.

Nigella described it as 'heaven' and '[her] cure for jet lag and recipe for deep joy'.

Under the shade of her 'resplendently red sun umbrellas,' she kicked off her afternoon with a glass of their life-affirming Pet-nat (short for Petillant Naturel, a natural sparkling wine), before diving into a delicious spread.

First on the table? Perfectly baked bread paired with a 'divine' Pipian - a silky, smoky dip made from pumpkin seeds, tomatoes, peppers, and a hit of garlic, lime and coriander.

And it only got better from there. Nigella revealed she 'inhaled' delicate scallops served with cauliflower and a surprising 'chickeny' sauce, admitting it sounded strange but tasted 'heavenly'.

The star was left practically speechless over a crispy potato and celeriac terrine draped in cabbage, resting under a cloud-like sauce so flavour-packed she admitted she 'panicked' at the thought of never eating it again.

For mains, the culinary queen devoured a melt-in-the-mouth Rankin cod, topped with charred sweetcorn, XO mussels, snapper sauce and a scatter of sunrose leaves - a citrusy native plant, that she never knew existed before.

The much-loved British food icon landed in Western Australia on the weekend and has declared a tiny Margaret River winery one of her favourite places on Earth

Nigella shared swoon-worthy pictures of her long lunch at Cullen Wines, describing it as 'heaven, heaven, HEAVEN.' Pictured: Her first course of baked bread paired with a 'divine' Pipian - a silky, smoky dip made from pumpkin seeds, tomatoes, peppers, and a hit of garlic, lime and coriander

Under the shade of red umbrella's Nigella kicked off her afternoon with a glass of Cullen's Pet-nat, a natural sparkling wine

She followed it up with an indulgent Arkady lamb rump, paired with pumpkin, creamy white polenta and Kunzea, another native ingredient Nigella described as tasting 'fresh and honeyed at the same time'.

Despite the fine-dining presentation, Nigella insisted the food had a 'joyous flavour' and said it 'tasted of food, if you know what I mean'.

Of course, no Nigella feast would be complete without dessert, and her spread of not one, but three plates did not disappoint.

'Caramelised apple (from the tree near where we were sitting) and almond cake, with spiced oats and guava ice cream; honey mousse with macadamia, quandong and banana ice cream; and Cambray Blackwood Blue cheese (which I've fallen in love with) seeded crackers, pear and walnuts,' she wrote.

While she ran out of room to properly describe the wines Nigella assured her followers they were as spectacular as the food - sharing a final snap showing off the bottles she sampled.

Cullen Wines was founded in 1971 by Dr. Kevin Cullen and Diana Cullen and has been family-owned for over 50 years.

Since taking the reins several decades ago, it states on the official Australian Wine website, that Vanya Cullen has transformed the family business into one of Australia's best boutique wineries and most environmentally sustainable vineyards.

Vanya posted to her own personal Instagram on the weekend thanking Nigella for 'her contribution to Australian hospitality,' as well as her positive energy at a time when 'things are really tough'.

Nigella treated herself to six-courses - including three dessert options

It's not the only culinary destination Nigella was excited to visit for her trip down under - telling told Gourmet Traveller that Ester in Chippendale was also at the top of her list.

Praising chef Mat Lindsay as 'extraordinary' for his surprising yet delicious creations, she revealed it was the Sydney restaurant she can't stop thinking about.

She recalled being convinced by a waiter named Ollie to try Ester's famous chicken fat oysters - a dish she initially thought sounded unappealing but ended up adoring.

'I love oysters anyway, but these were extraordinary,' she said, adding that while the concept might sound improbable, the flavours completely won her over.
Extravagant outfits were on full display at the Met Gala this week, but equally visible was celebrities' obsession with cosmetic 'tweakments' and surgeries.

'As the Met Gala continues to be a global barometer for beauty and style, it's clear that facial aesthetics are becoming just as influential as fashion on the red carpet,' said Dr. Norman Rowe, a celebrity-favorite plastic surgeon in New York.

The expert told the Daily Mail he saw several hallmarks of brow and face lifts as wells as fillers and Botox on the carpet on Monday.

'When done correctly, facelift results are very natural,' he said. 'Many patients now prefer the subtle and longer lasting benefits of surgical lifts over fillers.'

Based on photos from Monday's big night in New York City - which raised money for the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute with its annual ball - multiple plastic surgeons revealed to the Daily Mail which A-listers on the blue carpet have likely gone under the knife.

Anne Hathaway

The Oscar-winning star's noticeably smooth complexion and youthful complexion was on full showcase while she did an interview with Vogue on the blue carpet

The Oscar-winning star's noticeably smooth and youthful complexion was dazzling while she gave an interview on the blue carpet.

Even when letting out a big laugh, the Devil Wears Prada actor's forehead did not reveal one wrinkle or crinkle - leading many to wonder if she has undergone surgery.

While the 42-year-old actress has not yet commented on ongoing speculations, Dr. Rowe believes she may have had a facelift and brow lift.

'Anne Hathaway's profile looks eloquently defined, and she has an overall lifted and rejuvenated look,' Dr. Rowe said.

'I'm not certain if or if not she has undergone surgery, but Anne's new look could be attributed to the combination of a lateral brow lift and a facelift.'

A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that tightens the face and neck by pulling a flap of skin on each side of the face back and removing the excess.

The procedure can reduce sagging skin as well as smoothen folds on the cheeks and jawline.

A brow lift intends to naturally lift the eyebrows and the adjacent skin surrounding the eyes and forehead, which results in a refreshed look without the telltale signs of surgery, according to Dr. Rowe.

Additionally, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sam Fuller noted Hathaway has most likely undergone skin-tightening procedures to reverse laxity.

Skin laxity refers to the loss of skin elasticity and firmness, resulting in sagging or loose skin. It is usually caused by a decline in the production of collagen and elastin, two proteins responsible for providing structure and elasticity.

'Even several months ago there appeared to be very visible laxity and skin excess in the lateral cheeks,' he said. 'While at the Met Gala, her skin was tight, vibrant and rejuvenated.

'I don't think there is a non-invasive laser or treatment on the market that can obtain those results without surgical intervention.'

Lana Del Rey

Lana Del Rey may have undergone the knife to maintain her 'Old Hollywood aesthetic' and balance her features, Dr Christopher Costa said

Newly-married Lana Del Rey may have gone under the knife to maintain her 'Old Hollywood aesthetic' and balance her features, Dr. Christopher Costa, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Las Vegas theorized.

'As far as her face is concerned, it's possible she's had a conservative rhinoplasty and some lip enhancement to balance her features while keeping her signature vintage vibe,' he said.

Dr. Donald Yoo, a plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, also noted she may have had surgery to slim down her nose and undergone lip augmentation.

'When comparing photos of Lana Del Rey in her teens versus at the Met Gala, it does appear that she has benefited from some good cosmetic surgery to enhance the appearance of her face,' Dr. Yoo said.

Pictured: Dr Donald Yoo, a Beverly Hills plastic surgeon

'The disappearance of her dorsal hump on the bridge of her nose along with the overall slimming and changed appearance of the dorsal aesthetic lines on her nose would be difficult to explain without a rhinoplasty, whether surgical or nonsurgical.

A dorsal hump, also known as a nasal hump or dorsal bump, is a visible bump or ridge on the bridge of the nose - typically caused by a combination of bone and cartilage.

Dorsal aesthetic lines (DALs) are imaginary lines that define the ideal shape of the bridge of the nose when viewed from the front.

They essentially depict the smooth, gently curving contours at the top that define the bridge's appearance, running from the inner brow towards the tip of the nose.

'The volume and shape of her lips do appear augmented beyond what simple makeup would achieve, and is likely the result of lip augmentation with fillers,' Dr. Yoo told the Mail.

Charli XCX

Basking in her 'brat summer' fame, Charli XCX also made an appearance at this year's Met Gala to celebrate the 'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style' theme of the night

Basking in her 'brat summer' fame, Charli XCX also made an appearance at this year's Met Gala.

While many thought that she underwent major surgery leading up to the event, Dr. Fuller disagrees.

'In my medical opinion, Charli XCX appeared the most natural at the Gala when compared to other celebrities,' he said.

'Her lips look much more like moisturizer and natural fullness rather than actual injected filler that can make anatomical landmarks more vivid.

'In the same way, her upper eyelids and skin around her eyes and mouth appear natural and not over-tightened or augmented. From my perspective, no invasive procedures were performed on Charli XCX.'

However, Dr. Yoo thinks otherwise - stating she may have undergone a subtle nose job, as well as minor lip filler and brow lift.

'Charli XCX appears to have had a subtle rhinoplasty to slightly enhance the refinement of the tip of her nose,' Dr. Yoo theorized. 'Her lips also look to have benefitted from additional fullness from lip fillers.

'The change in shape and position of her eyebrows could be explained by makeup and grooming, but also suggests a surgical temporal brow lift to help elevate and enhance the lateral part of her eyebrows.'

Halle Berry

The former Bond girl has been in the limelight for over nearly four decades now and boasts legions of fans across the world.

While Halle Berry's Oscar-winning performances have long mesmerized cinema lovers, it was her rejuvenated and wrinkle-free face that drew attention on Monday - even though it was covered by a veil.

'Halle Berry would be one celebrity I would point out that went a bit overboard on the cheekbone filler,' Dr. Fuller said.

'The cheekbones, is a common location to highlight and augment with filler due to the natural process of aging that causes volume loss and descent of the cheek skin.

'However, her gala appearance certainly looks less natural and more of the result of filler placed into the upper cheek.

'When contrasted with some of the volume loss and descent of her remaining cheek, it jumps out as an area that likely was treated prior to the event.'

Dr. Fuller said she looked less postoperative and more like she had filler or Botox, 'particularly around her eyes and forehead.'

Dr. Gizem Seymenoglu, a London-based facial aesthetics practitioner, claimed that Berry may have had injection 'sometime before March - possibly around February of this year.'

Madonna

The pop icon, 66, showed off a stunning unfiltered look as she wowed in a cream silk Tom Ford suit, designed by Haider Ackermann

While many stars left fans wondering about whether they had undergone surgery, it was Madonna's undone look that stunned the crowd.

The pop icon, 66, who was branded 'unrecognizable' after showing off her plump cheeks and pout in 2023, sported a less surgically altered look at the Met Gala this year.

Dr. Fuller argues that it is likely not any new surgery or reversals the star has undergone, but instead suggests her face has finally healed from previous procedures and is now showing results.

'In Madonna's facial appearance, I use her facial evolution over time to illustrate not only the effects of multiple facial surgeries but the length of time that it takes to fully recover from surgery,' he said.

'Swelling and final results may not be seen for one to 2 years post-operatively, so celebrities like Madonna who cannot hide outside of media attention and cameras are going to be visible during their transformative months of healing.

'These temporary phases of healing stir controversy and attention as we as fans and plastic surgeons speculate on whether we are observing botched surgeries versus those that are in the process of healing.'
Space rescue: Chinese astro-engineers share a satellite-saving mission that spans 123 days and covers 8.5 million kilometers

09:45, May 07, 2025 By Huang Lanlan ( Global Times

A diagram of the world's first three-satellite constellation on the distant retrograde orbit (DRO) in the Earth-moon region established by China (Photo/Courtesy of the Technology and Engineering Center for Space Utilization, Chinese Academy of Sciences)

China has successfully established the world's first three-satellite constellation on the distant retrograde orbit (DRO) in the Earth-moon region of space, with the constellation operating stably for over 200 days, the Global Times learned at an academic seminar held by the project's developer, the Technology and Engineering Center for Space Utilization (CSU) at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) recently.

Apart from sharing this groundbreaking achievement, a particular detail discussed at the seminar attracted widespread attention: During the launch of two satellites in the three-satellite constellation - DRO-A and DRO-B - in March 2024, the mission once encountered anomalies. However, the situation was successfully navigated, under the 123-day dedicated efforts by the project's team at the center, with an average age of under 34.

What thrilling events unfolded during the rescue of the malfunctioning satellites, which were tens of thousands of kilometers away? What challenges did the program's team face and overcome? What significance does this launch hold for China's space endeavors and the development of humanity? The Global Times recently spoke with two participants from the project, who recounted how this young team turned a potential space disaster into a success.

Anomaly in satellite launch

In mid-April, the CSU released images of a DRO-A satellite with its solar panel severely damaged.

The satellite, which is still operational, evokes Zhang Hao's memories of March 13, 2024. That evening, at 8:51 pm, China launched the DRO-A/B satellites using the Long March-2C carrier rocket with a Yuanzheng-1S (Expedition-1S) upper stage attached, from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center. It was a historic moment, marking China's first foray into the deep exploration of the DRO.

The DRO is a unique family of orbits between the Earth and the moon. A typical DRO is located around 310,000 to 450,000 kilometers from the Earth, or 70,000 to 100,000 kilometers from the moon. Compared to other orbits, the DRO offers greater stability, allowing spacecraft to remain in position for hundreds of years without frequent adjustments. It is regarded by the aerospace community as a "natural harbor in the Earth-moon space." Following the launch of the DRO-A/B satellites, they are expected to work in conjunction with the previously launched DRO-L satellite, to establish K-band microwave inter-satellite measurement and communication links.

"Together, they will form a lighthouse or a beacon for further deep space exploration by us," Zhang, a research fellow at the CSU, told the Global Times.

However, shortly after the launch that evening, news of an "anomaly during the DRO-A/B satellite launch" drew public attention: While the first and second stages of the rocket flew normally, the upper stage, which is directly responsible for placing the satellites in their designated orbit, experienced an anomaly, resulting in the satellites not reaching their intended trajectory.

Zhang, responsible for orbital design and mission planning in this project, recalled details from that moment in the mission control center. At about 11 pm, signaling the imminent separation of the satellites from the rocket, the parameters representing the apogee height on the large screen suddenly fluctuated violently: The apogee height, which was supposed to steadily increase to 292,000 kilometers, instead oscillated like a roller coaster at just 150,000 kilometers.

Yin Yongchen, a third-year doctoral student at the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), is one of the Gen Z members of the project team. That night, the 24-year-old, who was busy with the relevant Ground System and was not directly aware of the situation on-site, recalled that several dozen minutes had passed beyond the expected time of the separation [of the satellites from the rocket] without any updates.

"I felt a vague sense of unease," he said. As midnight approached, Yin received a message from Zhang informing him that there was indeed a problem with the launch. "My heart sank at that moment."

In this project, Yin's role primarily involved assisting Zhang with contingency planning prior to the satellite launch. Now that an emergency had truly arisen, he realized that their upcoming tasks would be even more challenging.

Finally, after approximately 40 minutes of losing contact, the Telemetry, Tracking, and Command (TT&C) system captured a flickering signal. The team discovered that the DRO-A/B satellite duo had been "thrown" into an orbit at an apogee of only 134,000 kilometers - far below the intended 292,000 kilometers.

Worse still, it was spinning at over 200 degrees per second at that time.

"If these satellites did not regain their status within a few hours, their power may run out, or if they continued spinning at such high speeds, they would fall apart, become multiple pieces of space debris," Zhang told the Global Times.

"We needed to quickly and efficiently find a solution and implement it before that happened," Zhang said.

Aero-engineers work at the Technology and Engineering Center for Space Utilization (CSU), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), on January 18, 2024. (Photo/Courtesy of the CSU)

Youth power

The project team made multiple adjustments to the trajectory of the DRO-A/B satellite constellation in the following months. This "space rescue" was officially declared a success on July 15, 2024, lasting 123 days. Later, on August 28, DRO-A and DRO-B were successfully separated.

The project team accomplished this remarkable feat, covering approximately 8.5 million kilometers, while consuming only one-fifth of the fuel typically required for such missions. The space rescue not only salvaged satellites, but also validated several "world firsts," such as low-energy transfer for the DRO spacecraft, inter-satellite communication over a distance of 1.17 million kilometers, and a new system for space-based orbit determination.

Zhang, who participated in the satellite launch control process for the first time, reflected on the valuable experience he gained during the mission. "In this rescue, we collaborated closely with people from different institutions, and I accumulated a lot of practical experience," he said. "More importantly, the successful orbital insertion of the satellite is only a beginning, subsequent on-orbit technical breakthroughs and scientific discoveries are waiting ahead of us."

According to Zhang, the three-satellite constellation, which includes DRO-A, DRO-B, and the previously launched DRO-L, is expected to serve as a guiding beacon and communication hub for future space navigation. It can also function as space laboratories due to its unique gravitational field. Moreover, in the future, the constellation may serve as infrastructure for lunar resource development, and even pave the way for information highways for Mars exploration.

Despite the significance of the mission, the team executing it is remarkably young. A millennial himself, Zhang noted that most team members are millennials. He praised the Gen-Z students involved in the project for their strong technical skills, sense of responsibility, and passion for aerospace research. "The system of integrating research and education of UCAS, or more broadly, our national education system, has laid the foundation for the Gen-Z students to deal with these situations".

Yin recalled the overwhelming sense of achievement and joy he felt when the rescue was officially declared successful. "As a student, being part of this rescue and witnessing this historic moment in China's space history, is something I take great pride in," he told the Global Times.

May 4 marks China's Youth Day. Yin said that there are more and more young people like him who are proud of China's great achievements in space exploration, with a dream of embarking on a journey "to the sea of stars," by joining the aerospace industry. "It is truly an honor for our younger generation to witness, and even contribute to, China's rise as a space power," he said.

Get through challenges

An emergency rescue effort on the ground was mounted. Challenges came one after another.

The first challenge was to stop the spinning 581-kilogram DRO-A/B satellite duo. The project team repeatedly uploaded contingency commands, modifying parameter thresholds, alternately using the engines of each satellite to eliminate the spinning. In an attempt to "talk" to the satellites, the flight control team had to issue each command multiple times. By around 3 am the next day, the satellite duo successfully ceased its high-speed spinning.

Next came the second challenge. Telemetry data indicated that the solar panel of the DRO-A satellite could not lock, while the solar panel of the DRO-B satellite was completely "dislocated." As the power source for the satellites, any anomaly with the solar panels could lead to a critical power shortage, risking total energy depletion.

The team urgently implemented a series of operations, including uploading attitude control commands, and repeatedly adjusting the sun-pointing attitude. At last, they managed to successfully "recharge" the satellite with the damaged solar panels.

Having overcome these two major challenges, the real test was just beginning. At the time, the apogee altitude of the DRO-A/B satellites was less than half of what was expected, and fuel reserves were critically low.

How could the satellites be brought back on track? Within 40 hours, the team members engaged in heated discussions, scribbling formulas, coding, and repeatedly calculating a plan to return the satellites to their intended orbit amid the complex influences of various gravitational forces. During this period, Zhang and some colleagues hardly rested. "I was highly tense and concentrated, and didn't even feel tired," said Zhang.

Majoring in Astrodynamics, Yin participated in the review of orbital control parameters during this rescue. The task required meticulousness and patience. Yin recalled that each review of the orbital control parameters was time-sensitive, necessitating timely command uploads to the satellites.

Under pressure, Yin made a slight error in setting the engine parameters, which delayed the successful review of the parameters. "I was quite anxious at that moment, worried that my mistake would hinder the normal execution of the mission," he told the Global Times. The issue was later promptly identified and resolved with the help of the team's veteran members.

Time passed during the tense yet orderly rescue operation. At 12:42 pm on March 18, 2024, nearly five days after launching the first contingency orbital control maneuver, the apogee altitude of the satellites was successfully raised to the intended height of about 240,000 kilometers, bringing a sigh of temporary relief to the entire team. A few days later, the project team conducted a second perigee orbital maneuver, successfully elevating the combination to around 380,000 kilometers.

Reflecting on the process of overcoming each challenge with his coworkers, Zhang described their overall demeanor as "busy yet composed." He mentioned that before satellite launching, they would brainstorm in advance about potential malfunctions, and prepare relevant countermeasures.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
Thousands of women who take the mini pill may be at higher risk of potentially life-threatening asthma attacks, concerning research today suggested.

British scientists, who tracked more than 260,000 women, found those with asthma who used the progestogen-only pill  often dubbed the mini-pill  were more than a third more likely to suffer an attack than never users.

Yet there was no increase in asthma attacks among asthmatics who took the combined contraceptive pill  which contains oestrogen and progesterone.

The researchers, from Imperial College London, said they couldn't be sure exactly why progesterone alone put women at greater risk.

However, some previous research has suggested the hormone may increase inflammation in the airways, particularly during times of hormonal fluctuations in women  which may explain why more women are diagnosed with asthma than men.

Experts today labelled the findings of the 'major study' important, but cautioned it was 'too early' for consider changing women's treatment options yet.

Dr Chloe Bloom, a senior lecturer in respiratory epidemiology at Imperial College London and study lead author, said: 'Asthma is common in women of reproductive age, many of whom are taking the pill.

'This study helps women and healthcare professionals make more informed decisions about which contraceptive pill might be best for them.

British researchers, who tracked more than 260,000 women, found those with asthma who used the progestogen-only pill  often dubbed the mini-pill  were more than a third more likely to suffer an attack than never users

The proportion of women taking oral contraceptives has fallen by more than two-thirds, from 420,600 in 2012/13 to 126,400 in 2022/23, according to the NHS data. Around 555,400 women turned to the health service's sexual and reproductive health services in 2022/23  equivalent to four per cent of 13 to 54-year-olds

'The findings also add another piece to the puzzle of why women may be more likely to have severe asthma than men.'

In the study, researchers examined data on 261,827 women aged between 18 and 50 who had all been diagnosed with asthma and were taking either the combined or mini pill.

They compared their data to 127,502 women with asthma who had not been prescribed an oral contraceptive.

Over a follow-up of 16 years, they discovered that women under the age of 35 who used the mini pill had a 39 per cent increased risk of asthma attacks compared to never users.

They also found women taking fewer asthma treatments, such as inhaled or oral steroids, who were taking the mini pill had a 20 per cent increased risk.

Women with eosinophilic asthma  those who have high levels of blood cells called eosinophils that cause inflammation  had a 24 per cent increased risk of asthma attacks, they added.

However, writing in the journal ERJ Open Research, the researchers said this finding was 'not statistically significant', given the small sample size.

Responding to the study's findings, Dr Erika Kennington, from Asthma and Lung UK, which funded the research, said: 'This study is an important first step for women with asthma to better understand what lifestyle risks could increase their likelihood of an asthma attack.

Researchers found there was no increase in asthma attacks among asthmatics who took the combined contraceptive pill  which contains oestrogen and progesterone

'But much more research is needed to provide them with enough information to make more informed decisions on the best contraception choice for them.

'In the future, it would be beneficial for women to have the risk of an asthma attack considered alongside other health risks, such as heart disease and cancer.

'However, this research is still too early stage to change treatment decisions or prescribing guidelines and doesn't provide enough evidence for a prescriber to suggest to someone that they change their contraception pill.

'Historically little has been understood about why asthma is worse for women, because funding for lung health research is on life support.

'This research highlights yet again the need for urgent action to increase investment into lung research to give everyone fighting for breath improved treatment options and a better quality of life.'

Professor Apostolos Bossios, head of the European Respiratory Society's group on airway diseases, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and chronic cough, said: 'We need much more research to understand why asthma is worse for women than men so we can begin to reduce the risk.

'This major study in an important step towards that aim.'

Figures currently suggest around 6 per cent of women aged 16 to 49 use the mini pill in the UK  roughly 3.1 million.

The NHS says natural family planning can be up to 99 per cent effective when done correctly and around 75 per cent if not used according to instructions. By comparison, the Pill, implant, IUS and IUD are 99 per cent effective with perfect use, while condoms are 98 per cent

Taken every day, it works by thickening the cervical mucus and thinning the womb lining to stop sperm reaching an egg, and attaching itself in the womb.

In some cases, the mini pill can also stop ovulation from occurring.

It is 99.7 per cent effective with perfect use but if used incorrectly  such as missing a pill or experiencing nausea and diarrhoea while on it  around one in ten women (9 per cent) may get pregnant.

Known side effects of the Pill  proven to be over 99 per cent effective at stopping pregnancy  include nausea, breast tenderness, mood swings and headaches.

Others claim they pile on pounds while taking the because of increased fluid retention and appetite, yet the NHS says there is no evidence it leads to weight gain.

Decades of research has failed to provide any conclusive evidence that this supposed side effect is real.

However, rarer side effects include blood clots and a slightly heightened risk of breast and cervical cancer.

The respiratory condition asthma affects around 7.2million people in the UK, and asthma attacks kill, on average, three people in Britain every day.

It affects the airways, or breathing tubes, that carry air in and out of the lungs, causing them to become inflamed.

This makes the airways narrower so less air gets into and out of the lungs.

Symptoms include wheezing, breathlessness, a cough or a tight chest  and are often triggered by factors in the environment like pollution, stress or a cold.

Inhalers work to control the disease by reducing the number of blood cells that contribute to the lung inflammation.
A man struck by terminal cancer has urged the public to watch out for subtle changes to the skin, after what he thought was a cyst turned out to be deadly skin cancer that ultimately spread to his brain, lungs and liver.

Stuart Smith, 40, from Essex, first noticed a small lump on the side of his neck in April 2019, while on holiday with his wife in Cornwall.

But the accountant thought little of it, with his wife commenting the growth was 'a bit different'.

When they got back from their break, Mr Smith visited his GP to 'make sure it was nothing sinister'.

'We'd pretty much diagnosed it as a cyst ourselves,' he said.

But the doctor voiced concerns and referred him to the local hospital for further testing.

In August 2019 a biopsy revealed the devastating truth: the 'cyst' was in fact stage three melanomathe deadliest form of skin cancer.

Worryingly, doctors said they believed the growth on his neck had spread from the original cancer site, which they struggled to locate.

Stuart Smith, 40, initially brushed off a grape-sized lump in his neck as a 'cyst', which turned out to be stage three melanoma

Further tests revealed that the cancer had spread to the glands and muscles in his neck.

He was rushed in for an urgent operation to attempt to remove as much of the cancer as possible.

'It was a massive shock. We met with a surgeon who said they were going to remove the three lymph nodes,' said Mr Smith's wife, Lauren, a teaching assistant.

'We thought it wasn't a massive surgery but unfortunately when we got in there they realised it had spread into Stu's sternocleidomastoid muscle [located on either side of the throat].

'He didn't know that until he woke up and saw that half his neck was gone. After that initial shock he just had this determination to fight.

'The operation was successful and we thought we were done.'

However, in 2023, a routine scan revealed that the melanoma had returned and spread even further.

The disease had now reached his thigh, lungs and liver.

Ms Smith said: 'We bought a house and started to get our life back to normal and got our dog.

After grueling treatments and over three years of being cancer free, Mr Smith and his wife Lauren (left) thought they were in the all-clear, until they learned the devastating news the condition had spread to his brain and doctors told him he doesn't have long left

Mr Smith was on holiday in Cornwall with his wife when she noticed a lump on the left side of his neck (pictured)

Mr Smith after having surgery to remove the brain tumour

'It was approaching three-and-a-half years clear. We thought we were going to hit that five-year clear mark so we started to relax a bit.

'Stu went for his routine scan and we didn't think much of it. We underestimated it so much. You just have hope and crack on as normal and life goes on. That was such a shock to us.'

Two years later, in March this year, the situation got even worsethe cancer had spread to his brain, causing him to temporarily losing the ability to speak.

Doctors perfomed life-saving surgery to remove the tumour, but the cancer remains in his body.

Specialists have told the couple there's nothing more they can do to help him, so they have pinned their hopes on an experimental therapy called TIL that has proved promising for melanoma, in the US.

Mr Smith has now urged people to always get checked out.

'Just get checked, even if it's something small,' he said. 'It is scary but it's worth getting checked. Any changes to your skin. A small lump can be life or death.

'You just don't want cancer to win. There are so many other people in this situation as well and it's devastating.'

The couple have started a GoFundMe page to help raise money for his cancer treatment.

New or changing moles, a dark area under the nail or a hard lump under the skin are just some of the symptoms of melanoma.

Up to 3,000 people in the UK die from the disease each year, and about 17,500 new diagnoses, making it the fifth most common cancer in the country.
A simple 30-second hand test could reveal if something is seriously wrong in your brain, a medic has claimed.

British doctor who goes by the name 'Medifectious' on TikTok demonstrated how to perform the test in a clip viewed almost 200,000 times.

It involves taking one hand and rapidly flipping it palm side up and down on top of the other palm for a few seconds before swapping hands and repeating the motion.

This is designed to pick up signs of a condition called dysdiadochokinesia which is the inability to perform rapid alternating movements.

Having dysdiadochokinesia is a sign something is wrong within the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for controlling coordination.

This includes a tumour pressing on the tissue within the brain or a problem with the nerves themselves.

One person who vouches for the test is TikTok user 'Chars TT', who filmed her unwell boyfriend being unable to perform the motion in a clip that has been viewed over 1million times.

'Those are the hands of my brave boyfriend who has a brain tumour,' she said.

The test involves taking one hand and rapidly flipping it palm side up and down in the other hand for a few seconds before swapping hands and repeating the motion

She added: 'He was diagnosed about three years ago and because it's slow growing and he's in an area where there is limited neurosurgeons, he's been waiting a very long time to have it removed.'

She shared the clip to raise money to have her boyfriend's growth removed privately, a procedure that can cost nearly 30,000.

In his clip demonstrating the motion, Medifectious said: 'Everyone should be able to do it.'

'If you can't do this you might want to get yourself checked'.

He added that some patients are able to do the motion perfectly with one hand but have problems with the other, depending on the underlying cause.

Dysdiadochokinesia can be triggered by multiple conditions such as brain lesionswhich can include tumoursor illnesses that damage nerves in the brain like multiple sclerosis.

Cancerous brain tumours are the deadliest form of the disease for children and adults under 40 in Britainclaiming 5,300 lives every year, about 15 every day.

But even benign brain tumourswhich unlike cancerous ones don't spread to other parts of the bodycan still be deadly if they grow within sensitive brain tissue.

Over 12,000 patients in Britain are diagnosed with a brain tumour each year, and about half of these cases are cancerous.

The most common brain tumour symptoms are headaches, drowsiness, vomiting and vision problems, caused by the growth increasing internal pressure in the skull.

Other signs include mental and behavioural changes, weakness in one side of the body and vision and speech problems.

However, medics emphasise that the exact symptoms of a brain tumour vary depending exactly where the growth is located.

People who experience brain tumour symptoms, especially a new different type of headache or a worsening one, should contact their GP for advice.

While the issue is unlikely to be caused by a tumour they still need to be checked.
The global air pollution crisis was today laid bare in an interactive map revealing the catastrophic levels of toxic fumes in some regionsincluding parts of the UK.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has long demanded countries take tougher action to combat the scourge of pollution, which is thought to kill 7million people every year globally.

In a fresh study tracking more than 13,000 urban areas worldwide, US researchers used satellite data and computer models to measure the amount of harmful carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere.

Average levels of three pollutants close to residential areas were also assessed over 14 years.

These included particles less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter (PM2.5)considered the most dangerous air pollutantnitrogen dioxide (NO2) and ozone (O3).

Exposure to all four has been linked to increased risk of a host of deadly diseases, including lung and colon cancer, as well as heart disease and dementia.

The particles, emitted by car exhausts and wood-burning stoves, can be so small they are invisible to the naked eye, yet travel deep into the lungs and bloodstream.

Now the numbers  packaged into an interactive tool by MailOnline  allow you to see how many particles are released on average depending on where you live in the UK. The interactive global map can also be accessed here.

Your browser does not support iframes.

Symptoms of lung cancer are often not noticeable until the cancer has spread through the lungs, to other parts of the body

According to the latest 2019 figures collected by the scientists, in the UK the East of England fared worst for PM2.5which can lodge in the heart, brain and other organs.

Ipswich in Suffolk was at highest risk with 15.88 parts per billion (ppb), followed only by Basildon and Southend, both in Essex, reporting rates of 15.81 and 15.79 respectively.

Cambridge and Chelmsford also recorded levels at 15.52 and 15.36.

By comparison, Londonderry in Northern Ireland and Greenock, in western Scotland, reported the lowest rates of 6.36 and 7.33 ppb.

Research has long indicated PM2.5 can promote the growth of cancer-causing cells in the lungs and colon.

On 2022 study by scientists at University College London revealed around 300,000 lung cancer deaths were attributed to PM2.5 exposure in 2019.

Another, published last year by Chinese researchers also found just a 5 g/m3 or 2.83 ppb increase in PM2.5 exposure could increase the risk of colon cancer by 27 per cent.

But many other of its heath effects are still to be discovered.

In a fresh study tracking more than 13,000 urban areas worldwide, US researchers used satellite data and computer models to measure the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere

Your browser does not support iframes.

O3, meanwhile, is created by reactions between nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds, both emitted by vehicles and industrial processes.

At ground level, ozone causes a smoggy haze typically seen in cities and can cause breathing problems, especially for vulnerable people who suffer from lung diseases such as asthma.

Hereford and Folkestone in Kent recorded the highest O3 levels in the country, at 37.96 and 37.94 ppb respectively.

York, in contrast, ranked lowest at 24.08.

Under WHO guidelines, O3 levels should not exceed roughly 47 ppb over an 8-hour period.

London was the highest CO2 emitter, the figures also suggestedexceeding recommended guidelinesand the only part of the UK to hit the CO2 red zone.

Newcastle and Chatham, meanwhile, ranked highest for NO2 levels, at 11.75 and 11.42ppb emitted.

At ground level, ozone causes a smoggy haze typically seen in cities and can cause breathing problems, especially for vulnerable people who suffer from lung diseases such as asthma

Bowel cancer can cause you to have blood in your poo, a change in bowel habit, a lump inside your bowel which can cause an obstructions. Some people also suffer with weight loss a s a result of these symptoms

London and Peterborough followed with 11.33 and 11.03ppb respectively.

NO2 has been found to trigger respiratory problems that can cause hospital and emergency department admissions, such as asthma and symptoms including coughing, wheezing and difficulty breathing.

UK laws currently state hourly levels of toxic NO2 must not exceed the threshold of roughly 21ppb, more than 18 times a year.

Globally, O3 levels increased 6 per cent between 2005 and 2019, the researchers found.

However, PM2.5 and NO2 showed 'little to no overall change'.

The highest levels of PM2.5 were found in India, with Indian cities double the global average ppb levels.

'Highly polluted PM2.5 clusters' were also observed in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia and China, the researchers said.

Urban areas with the highest NO2 levelsexceeding 12.1 ppbwere also primarily in 'China and high-income countries'.

Similar to PM2.5, cities in India also recorded the highest levels of O3averaging 66.7 ppbalmost a third (30 per cent) higher than the global average (51.2 ppb).

South Asialargely due to Indiaand China had higher levels of PM2.5 and O3 concentrations compared to other regions, the scientists said.

Professor Susan Anenberg, an expert in environmental and occupational health at George Washington University and study co-author also added: 'This study provides a powerful snapshot of how urban environments are evolving across the globe.

'It also shows that progress is possible but uneven, with some cities seeing worsening pollution while others are experiencing cleaner air over time.'

Writing in the journal Communications Earth & Environment, however, the scientists noted the research had 'some limitations'.

While the study incorporated 'state-of-the-art methods to improve the accuracy of measurements', the data may 'still contain errors due to insufficient input data, incorrect model processes, and erroneous emission data', they said.
American researchers believe they've pinpointed when and where Covid first emerged  and it might not have been in China.

Researchers from the University of California, San Diego, say they've uncovered evidence that SARS-CoV-2  the virus that causes Covid  likely started evolving in bats as early as 2012, in a region spanning western China and northern Laos.

They analyzed more than 100 coronaviruses found in horseshoe bats, comparing them with SARS-CoV-2 and its cousin SARS-CoV-1, the virus behind the 2002 outbreak.

This allowed them to build what they believe is the most comprehensive picture of the viruses' evolutionary histories.

The findings suggest that the closest viral relatives to SARS-CoV-2 emerged between five and seven years before Covid exploded in Wuhan.

Meanwhile, SARS-CoV-1's closest relatives were found to have originated up to a decade before that virus caused an outbreak in Guangdong, southern China, in 2002.

In both cases, these ancestral viruses were traced 600 to 1,200 miles away from where the human outbreaks happened  Wuhan in 2019 for Covid and Guangdong with SARS.

Because horseshoe bats have small home ranges  typically just a few square miles  the researchers say it's unlikely the animals themselves carried the viruses.

The above map highlights the area where the researchers say Covid may have emerged, and the distance between there and Wuhan, where the pandemic began

Instead, they argue, the virus most likely made the journey via an intermediate host  such as raccoon dogs or civets  which were captured and transported by wildlife traders to markets in major cities.

This conclusion echoes what scientists already know about the original SARS outbreak in 2002, when palm civets sold in Chinese wet markets were identified as key intermediaries between bats and humans.

The researchers argue that in both SARS outbreaks, the bat virus reservoir was far from the outbreak city  so the same kind of long-distance movement occurred previously and wasn't unique to Covid.

Dr Joel Wertheim, a top infectious disease expert and senior co-author of the study, said: 'At the start of the Covid pandemic, people worried the distance between Wuhan and the bat virus reservoir was too vast for a natural origin.

'This paper shows that it isn't unusual.'

The UC San Diego team notes that four live animal markets in Wuhan were selling species known to be susceptible to bat viruses in late 2019  the clearest evidence yet that one of them may have been the 'epicenter' of the initial human outbreak.

But while the academics argue in favor of a natural origin for Covid, the paper cannot rule out a potential lab leak.

Many experts, including U.S. intelligence agencies like the FBI and CIA, believe SARS-CoV-2 escaped from the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), where coronaviruses were being studied at the time.

Dr Simon Clarke, an infectious diseases expert in the UK who was not involved in the study and was only able to examine a press release, told DailyMail.com: 'The most that can be said is that this paper lends weight to the argument that Covid-19 emerged from the wild animal trade, but I can't see how it proves that.

Previous research has identified horseshoe bats as a reservoir of coronaviruses and the likely original source of SARS-CoV-2 (stock)

'After all, we know that the lab in Wuhan was collecting viruses from the wild.'

Asked about the methods used in the paper, he said: 'This is a top journal and I'd expect the paper to have been rigorously picked to pieces before publication.'

The UC researchers developed a method that avoids parts of the viral genome that are frequently shuffled between viruses  a natural process called recombination  which often muddies attempts to trace a virus's lineage.

By filtering out these 'recombinant' regions, they were able to build a more reliable genetic timeline than ever before.

It comes after China sensationally claimed that America was to blame for the Covid pandemic.

In a white paper released Wednesday last week, China's State Council Information Office suggested the virus that killed 1.2 million Americans and at least 7 million people worldwide may have originated in the United States.

The document appears to be a direct rebuttal to renewed attacks from the Trump campaign, which has doubled down on claims that Covid leaked from the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV)  a lab known to be conducting coronavirus experiments  calling it the only plausible explanation for the pandemic.

The white paper released by China's State Council Information Office was meant to rebut the Trump Administration which has claimed the virus came from the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) which was doing coronavirus experiments at the time.

In the report, Chinese officials wrote: 'The US government, instead of facing squarely its failure in response to Covid-19 and reflecting on its shortcomings, has tried to shift the blame and divert people's attention by shamelessly politicizing SARS-CoV-2 origins tracing.

'A thorough and in-depth investigation into the origins of the virus should be conducted in the United States. The United States should respond to the reasonable concern of the international community, and give a responsible answer to the world.'
Thousands of children in Milwaukee are feared to have been exposed to a toxin linked to cancer and autism due to crumbling school classrooms.

At least eight schools were found to have lead-based paint that is chipping and producing toxic dust that when inhaled can lead to a host of health problems.

Several schools have had to temporarily close for remediation efforts after high levels of the toxins were found in students' blood.

Kat Cisar, a mother of six-year-old twins, learned in February that her children had been exposed.

Her kids' school is one of those forced to shut since the public health crisis emerged late last year.

Health officials now plan now is to use the summer to inspect half of the district's 100 schools built before 1978, when lead paint was banned, in time for classes to go back in the fall.

The remaining schools will be inspected before the end of the year.

But parents are worried that timeline means that young children could potentially be exposed to the toxic metal which is known to damage the brain.

Lead has been linked to learning disabilities, along with damage to the kidneys, reproductive, cardiovascular, and digestive systems, and, potentially, autism spectrum disorder.

Kristen Payne, a parent at Golda Meir school where a student tested positive, told the New York Times that she assumed the facilities would be properly maintained, especially after Covid. A student attending Golda Meir School (shown) was poisoned

Kat Cisar, a mother of six-year-old twins, learned in February that her children had been exposed to lead

Her children's school is one of those forced to shut since the public health crisis emerged late last year

Since the first child tested for lead late last year, three other children have tested positive.

Cisar's children have not tested positive for lead poisoning, but she will have to keep an eye on it, according to ABC News.

'We put a lot of faith in our institutions, in our schools, and it's just so disheartening when those systems fail,' Cisar told the outlet.

Her children have attended their school for three years, and exposure builds up over time to compound the health effects.

More lead screenings are being made available in the city, such as at North Division High School. Officials setting up tables there have the capacity to test about 300 students.

The organization Lead Safe Schools told a Fox News affiliate: 'Until the district, city and state work proactively to address root causes of lead exposure, these testing clinics will be more performative than proactive.

They should be focused on creating meaningful change to prevent kids from being exposed to lead in the first place.

Milwaukee schools' water has also tested positive for lead, potentially affecting children at water fountains and bathroom faucets.

Lead is poisonous when inhaled, as well as through contact with the skin and ingestion.

Testing showed neither had levels above what the EPA considers 'actionable'  15 parts per billion. Still, no amount of lead exposure is safe, especially over an extended period.

Residents say schools are not the only buildings with peeling lead paint. They say there is lead paint in almost all of the buildings

Lisa Lucas, whose daughter attends an elementary school that has been closed for lead remediation, said: 'Everybody in Milwaukee is aware of lead.'

The long timeline for fixing lead-lined school walls means young children could be exposed to a toxin that can harm the brain, cause learning disabilities, and damage the kidneys, heart, reproductive, and digestive systems  and may be linked to autism. Ms Cisar is shown with her twins

The city would generally rely on federal government-funded remediation efforts, starting with input from the CDC.

But the Trump Administration has slashed about 10,000 jobs from the sprawling Department of Health and Human Services, which includes 20 percent of the CDC's staff.

The city's health department formally requested assistance from the CDC in March.

The agency could disperse grants to the health department through the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program to fund inspections, remediation work such as stripping the paint, and public education campaigns.

The CDC also offers technical support for testing for lead levels in the blood and water, cleaning safely, and training public health officials, school staff, and environmental inspectors to better handle hazards effectively and safely.

But the CDC's lead poisoning experts have been fired, and the branch has been gutted.

Dr Michael Totoraitis, the Milwaukee health commissioner, said: 'There is no bat phone anymore. I can't pick up and call my colleagues at the C.D.C. about lead poisoning anymore.'

Lead is a constant presence in Milkwaukee, particularly in poorer neighborhoods.

Many buildings were erected in the 1800s and early 1900s when it was a common component of paint and pipes. Lead was banned in the 70s, at which point generations had been exposed

Many buildings were erected in the 1800s and early 1900s when it was a common component of paint and pipes.

Lead was banned in the 70s, at which point generations had been exposed.

Your browser does not support iframes.

Kristen Payne, a parent whose oldest child attends Golda Meir school where a student tested positive, told the New York Times: 'Frankly, I just sort of trusted that there would have been appropriate upkeep in the facilities, especially following what was happening with Covid.

'I was really surprised to see the extent of the problem.'

Lisa Lucas, whose daughter attends an elementary school that has been closed for lead remediation, added: 'Everybody in Milwaukee is aware of lead.

'There's lead paint in almost all of the schools and buildings. And nobody has really stepped up, either in the city or the state legislature, to make our city safer and healthier for everybody. That's the most frustrating part of it.'
A woman who momentarily 'died' twice has detailed the haunting scenes she claims she saw in heaven.

Lisa Small, from Belleview, Florida, was just 24 when in 2008, she suddenly collapsed and had to be resuscitated.

The now 41-year-old was suffering a drug and alcohol addiction that saw her spend at least $150 a day on the substances when during one cocaine binge she said she stopped breathing but her eyes remained open.

Her then-boyfriend was forced to perform CPR for around 40 seconds, before she regained consciousness.

It was only after she collapsed a second time later that night and stopped breathing again that she sought medical attention.

Here, she said doctors explained that she had gone into respiratory arrest  a serious medical emergency where breathing stops, but the heart continues to beat.

Research suggests just one in six patients survive the medical emergency after five years.

Yet, Ms Small, who works as a waitress, claimed to have miraculously avoided any long-term damage, and said she was one of the handful of people to have survived a near-death experience, 'like a phoenix out of the ashes'.

Lisa Small, from Belleview, Florida , was just 24 when in 2008, she suddenly collapsed and had to be resuscitated

The now 41-year-old was suffering a drug and alcohol addiction that saw her spend at least $150 a day on the substances when during one cocaine binge she said she stopped breathing but her eyes remained open

These phenomena, which have been a source of fascination for medics and the public alike for decades, are believed to occur when people are clinically 'dead', and extremely unlikely to survive.

Many of those who've had such an experience claim to have seen the afterlife.

Recalling her experience, Ms Small said: 'I literally stopped breathing. I collapsed. I stopped breathing.

'All of a sudden I was in this big, huge open field, and there was a tree next to me, and then there was a guy in a white cloth.

'Way off miles and miles away, there was a sea of people. I couldn't physically see anybody, but I felt like I knew them.

'This feeling of just wonderfulness. I can't even explain it. It was like euphoria times a million.'

During her second collapse, 'I went to the exact same spot, exact same tree, person, people in the distance, exact same feeling', she added.

'My boyfriend told me "your eyes were open the entire time"so clearly I wasn't dreaming.'

Her then-boyfriend was forced to perform CPR for around 40 seconds, before she regained consciousness

Ms Small, who works as a waitress, claimed to have miraculously avoided any long-term damage, and said she was one of the handful of people to have survived a near-death experience, 'like a phoenix out of the ashes'

A respiratory arrest is a life-threatening emergency. Without immediate medical attention it can trigger brain damage or a cardiac arrest.

A cardiac arrest happens when the heart suddenly stops beating or beats irregularly, disrupting blood flow to vital organs.

One study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal involving 517 patients who had suffered a respiratory arrest found 59.6 per cent were able to be resuscitated in hospital.

Just over a quarter (26.9 per cent) were discharged from hospital with 24.3 per cent surviving a year.

Just 15.9 per cent, however, survived to five years.

Ms Small said: 'I'm very grateful I'm one of the blessed ones that made it out. Where I was headed was total destruction. I feel like a phoenix out of the ashes.'

Despite her near death experience, it wasn't until 2018 that she became sober having battled homelessness as well as multiple arrests.

She estimated she spent around $40,000 in total during the 15 years she was gripped by her addiction to cocaine, heroin, crack, alcohol and the synthetic drug 'flakka.'

Despite her near death experience, Ms Small said it wasn't until 2018 that she became sober having battled homelessness as well as multiple arrests. Pictured, Ms Small's mugshot in 2015

She said: 'Addiction is basically a pit of despair, like a demon that has a hold of you. You have to be stronger than that.'

Now, she credits the church and faith for her recovery.

'In July, I'll have lived in this house for six years now. I always have animals find me. I've had my three cats for eight years now.'

But her most significant is the reconnection with her 20-year-old son, Ayden, a restaurant host where Lisa workswho grew up with his father.

'My son lives with me now,' she said.

'When he moved in on Christmas Eve of this past year, it's the first time he's ever lived with me and the longest amount of time that we've ever spent together.

'Being sober, my life has literally done a full 360, not even just a 180. Everything is different. Everything.'

Experiences of seeing and hearing things while clinically dead do have some scientific basis.

She estimated she spent around $40,000 in total during the 15 years she was gripped by her addiction to cocaine, heroin, crack, alcohol and the synthetic drug 'flakka'

For years studies have shown the human brain still functions normally for a very brief time after the heart stops, although it appears to have ceased activity on regular scans.

Research has also revealed that the brain can still experience sporadic bursts of activity even after an hour without oxygen, during resuscitation.

Such discoveries have led to some medics calling for an overhaul of the standard practice that rules people should be declared dead after three-to-five minutes of oxygen deprivation to the brain, as these patients could still in theory be resuscitated.

While evidence on something happening in brains after clinical death is still being explored, exactly why people have similar experiences remains an issue of contention among experts.

Some theorise that as the brain is undergoing these changes essentially the 'brakes' come off the system and this opens our perception to incredibly lucid and vivid experiences of stored memories from our lives.

However, this is only a theory and other experts dispute this.

Clinical death also differs from brain death.

Brain death is when a person on an artificial life support machine no longer has any brain function, which means they will not regain consciousness.

Such patients have no chance of recovery because their body is unable to survive without artificial life support.

In the UK this means a person who has suffered brain death is legally dead.

This can be difficult to comprehend for families of the deceased as they can see their loved one's chest rise and fall with every breath from the ventilator as well as their heart continuing to beat.

Brain death can be caused by both illness and injury when blood and/or oxygen supplies are cut off to the vital organ.

The condition is different from a vegetative state where a patient's brain function remains.
An urgent recall has been issued for canned beans sold at Walmart and other grocers over fears they pose a life-threatening health risk.

The FDA is recalling 4,510 cases of Yellowstone Brown Sugar Molasses Baked Beans sold across 23 states because they contain undeclared soy.

About 1.9million people in the US are allergic to soy, and can suffer from anaphylaxis if they eat the substance  a life-threatening allergic reaction that can leave them gasping for breath.

No illnesses or adverse reactions have been reported to date, but the FDA is urging people to throw out the beans or return them to stores for a full refund.

The beans are sold in 15-ounce cans with a best-by date of February 17, 2028  and were made by Tennessee-based Vietti Food Group.

The can has a black label with a large, yellow 'Y' on the front, as well a a picture of beans cooking in a saucepan.

A representative for the brand said the affected beans were sold in Walmart, Associated Wholesale Grocers, Hy-Vee and Meijer, among others.

The above is a stock image of beans. It was a brand sold by Vietti Food Group that was recalled because it contained undeclared soy

The above shows the label used on the recalled canned beans

The FDA said in its alert: 'Individuals with an allergy or severe sensitivity to soy risk serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume this product.'

The recall was called in the following states: Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah and Virginia.

It was not clear exactly how many cans of beans were being recalled or how the soy had entered the baked beans.

Your browser does not support iframes.

But it is likely that the soy was contained in the sauce, where it is used to tone down the sweetness and add depth to the flavor.

Food workers then did not declare the sauce's presence on the label, which led to the recall.

Soy comes from soybeans and is commonly consumed in foods. It is one of nine major allergens, with the others being milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat and sesame.

It poses no risks to someone who does not have a soy allergy.

But for patients with this, they can quickly experience a tingling sensation in the mouth and swelling of the lips and face after consuming soy.

Experts say they can also break out in hives, itching or eczema, and suffer from abdominal pain, diarrhea and nausea.

It comes after a March recall was issued for 200,000 cans of popular vegetables sold at Target over fears they were contaminated with a foreign object.

Good & Gather Cut Green Beans - distributed by Target - have been recalled in just about two dozen states, including Alabama, Arizona, Georgia, New Jersey, New York, Ohio and Texas.

On February 12, 197,808 cans were recalled. On March 13, the recall was named as the second-highest risk level, or a 'Class II' distinction.

The FDA did not explain in its release what sort of foreign object had been found in the cans, but these are typically pits and bones that have not been removed.
A trad-wife influencer left Piers Morgan stunned when she came to the defense of a white mom who called a five-year-old boy the N-word on the playground.

The Piers Morgan Uncensored host invited a panel to discuss the case of Shiloh Hendrix, who was filmed in Minnesota being confronted by a man who accuses her of calling a young black boy the 'N-word' after the child allegedly took a toy from her son's diaper bag.

Hendrix has never denied using the slur, and when questioned by an onlooker she responds she would use the slur 'If that's what he's gonna act like.'

She then repeats the slur at the man filming her, and makes an obscene gesture.

But after the video went viral, a growing number of Americans came to Hendrix's defense - including controversial influencer Lilly Gaddis, who asked her followers to support the Minnesota mom's online fundraiser, which has now garnered over $700,000 for her family.

On his program Tuesday, Morgan asked Gaddis why she 'would want to support a white racist - to which she replied, 'Because I want to support free speech.'

Morgan responded by saying he understands the free speech argument, but argued, 'You also have to be accountable for what you say.'

At that point, he asked Gaddis whether she would ever use the racial slur - to which she replied 'Yes' without hesitation.

'You would?' the conservative news host asked, his mouth agape at the answer.

'Mhm, I do it quite frequently,' said Gaddis, who was once caught on video using the 'n-word' while talking about relationships.

Piers Morgan was left in utter shock when trad-wife influencer Lilly Gaddis came to the defense of a white mom who called a five-year-old boy the N-word on the playground

The Piers Morgan Uncensored host was discussing with his panel the case of Shiloh Hendrix, who was filmed in Minnesota being confronted by a man who accuses her of calling a young black boy the 'N-word' after the child allegedly took a toy from her son's diaper bag

'You use the N-word quite frequently?' Morgan repeated, clearly in shock by what he just heard.

'Why? Other than the fact that you're a despicable racist. Are you?' he asked his guest.

'Some would say I am, I guess, according to the ADL I'm a "white supremacist," I'm a "neo-Nazi," Gaddis replied.

Still, Morgan wanted a clear answer - again pressing the influencer on whether she is a racist.

Gaddis, though, seemed unfazed - and said she would 'embrace' the title 'if that means helping white people achieve freedom of speech - real freedom of speech.'

She then tried to steer the conversation back to the Minnesota mom and even tried to bring up the case of Karmelo Anthony - a teenager accused of murdering a fellow student during a track meet last month - in her effort to change the subject.

During the interview, Gaddis astonishingly admitted she 'regularly' uses the N-word

But Morgan continued to fixate on Gaddis' remarks.

'Sorry, but just to be clear to me, you just said to me you use the N-word regularly. In what context? Do you use it with black people?' he asked.

Gaddis then replied that she does 'if it's appropriate.'

The answer seemed to just leave Morgan even more stunned.

'When would it be appropriate to use the N-word? When would it be appropriate?' he asked - to which Gaddis replied, 'Any time I feel like it.'

'So you're just an unashamed racist?' he hit out at the influencer, who admitted she is.

'Do you understand that makes you a despicable human being?' Morgan asked her.

'I guess so, I don't really care,' Gaddis responded. 'I mean, why are we not talking about Shiloh Hendrix?'

Gaddis was once even caught on video using the 'n-word' while talking about relationships

Stunned, Morgan said she changed the topic of the conversation with her 'own racism, which is why you've supported her in public and why you got all these views.

'You see no problem shrieking the N-word repeatedly because you yourself are a despicable racist and you just proudly admitted that with a smug grin on your face - which is pretty horrifying, actually, for most people to watch.

'And shame on you,' he hit out at the influencer.

'You're entitled to do it, and I'm entitled to call you despicable,' Morgan concluded.

Gaddis has previously defended Hendrix, posting a video to her X account last week, saying the mother's actions demonstrates 'whites having enough of it.

'We're sick of being bullied in our own country,' she claimed.

White people are finally fighting back. Stand with Shiloh Hendrix! pic.twitter.com/GuX4WSldmG  Lilly (@thelillygaddis) May 1, 2025

'This is great,' she continued.

'This is white people finally being fed up with this s*** and the fact that we have brown people trying to take away white people's rights in a white country, when we have the Constitution and freedom of speech and they come from their s*** countries where you can be locked up for hate speech, this is just disgusting.

'This is everything wrong with immigrants,' Gaddis argued of the man who filed Hendrix. 'This is everything wrong with brown people in our f***ing country and this is why we need to kick them all out.'

She then declared that the United States is a 'white country for white people.

'These people are not welcome, and I'm glad to see people finally standing up, to stand with her,' she said of Hendrix, as she asked her supporters to donate to the Minnesota mom's fundraising page.

Shiloh Hendrix has now created her own online fundraiser, claiming she is being targeted following the viral video

As of Tuesday, it had raised over $700,000 for her family

On it, Hendrix claims she is raising money to protect her family and relocate after being doxed when the video went viral.

'My name is Shiloh and I have been put into a very dire situation. I recently had a kid steal from my 18 month old son's diaper bag at a park. I called the kid out for what he was,' she writes - again defending her actions.,

Hendrix then claims her 'family members are being attacked' in the aftermath of the video, and says her Social Security number has been leaked along with her address and phone number.

She also claimed 'we have been threatened to the extreme by people online,' despite her widespread support.

As the fundraiser grew on Friday, Hendrix thanked her supporters, saying she is 'taking the proper procedures in order to stay safe.'

'The overwhelming support that my family and myself have received is unbelievable! I've never felt so scared, yet reassured in my life. It's truly a whirlwind of emotions,' she said.

'I'm still very frightened, and I don't think I will feel safe until we can escape completely.'

Meanwhile, the Rochester branch of the NAACP launched a crowdfunding campaign to support the child and his family - aiming to raise funds for legal advocacy and broader social justice efforts.

The campaign for the child and his family has now disabled any more donations, after raising more than $341,000.
A restaurant owned and operated by CBS News star Norah O'Donnell's husband has been raided by the federal government.

Nearly a dozen Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents descended on the DC eatery Tuesday, asking to see staffers' I-9 forms that verify their identity.

The raid at Chef Geoffs, founded by ODonnells husband Geoff Tracy in 2000, resulted in no arrests.

It lasted roughly an hour and a half, and local officials are already labeling the raid as evidence of 'fearmongering' from federal officials.

Shawn Townsend, President of the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington, made the claims to Fox 5, the first to report on the federal activity.

DC Mayor Muriel Bowser said she too was 'disturbed' by the at least 10 operations.

'It doesnt look like [ICE agents] are targeting criminals,' she claimed Tuesday. 'It does look like they're disrupting.'

'We are concerned about the fear-mongering tactics we believe happened today,' Townsend added, as O'Donnell's network continues to face separate scrutiny from officials for what Donald Trump has framed as slanted programming.

A restaurant owned and operated by CBS News star Norah O'Donnell's restaurateur husband, Geoff Tracy, was raided by nearly a dozen ICE officials on Tuesday morning

The raid at Chef Geoffs, founded by O'Donnell's husband in 2000, resulted in no arrests. The restaurant is seen here shortly after the one-and-a-half hour visit

'There was no one detained or arrested that Ive heard of but regardless of that fact, disrupting food service during lunch hours while restaurants are open is alarming,' the trade association boss continued.

'There is a sense of fear Immigrants make up a large amount of workers in our restaurants in the district.'

The Washingtonian reported the agents also visited Millies, Pupatella, Chang Chang, Officina and Mi Vida, Jaleo, Santa Rosa Taqueria, Call Your Mother, Clydes, and Ghostburger to either demand I-9 forms or say they would soon return to do so.

Chef Geoff's West End, Tracy's restaurant on the other side of town, seemingly avoided the slew of early morning raids.

All of the agents - each dressed in a Homeland Security uniform - asked staff to confirm employees' employment eligibility.

Other unconfirmed reports of agents at other DC restaurants have circulated as well.

DailyMail.com has reached out to Chef Geoffs for comment.

The restaurant is located a stone's throw from American University, and features typical American fare and homemade pasta dishes.

'Contemporary American cuisine and a friendly neighborhood feel fit for any occasion,' is how it's described on its website.

At least nine other DC restaurants - including Millie's in Spring Valley - were hit by the slew of raids. Owner Bo Blair turned the agents away

Witnesses like local resident Isa recalled how the raid played out to Fox 5, saying it has left citizens on edge

local officials are already labeling the raid as evidence of 'fearmongering' from federal officials, as O'Donnell's employer faces a separate probe - and lawsuit - from the administration. The outdoor area of Chef Geoffs is seen here Tuesday

Agents, meanwhile, were filmed marching into Millie's, where they were reportedly met with pushback from owner Bo Blair.

'They all came in all of the public entrances at the same time,' Blair said of the raid on his place in Spring Valley, which is not far from Tracy's restaurant in Northwest.

Blair denied the agents requests to speak with staffers, leading them to leave willingly.

Michael Jones, general manager of Pupatellas in Dupont, told Eater agents 'came to the front door' but never entered the building and were 'very cordial [and] polite.'

In her statement, Mayor Bowser made clear her municipality's police department played no part in the raids, which come as part of a wider crackdown from the federal government.

As part of his mass deportation plan, Trump this week said he would pay $1,000 to illegal immigrants who return to their home country willingly.

He has also simultaneously honed in on legacy news stations like CBS, calling federal probes to look into their content.

Trump is also the plaintiff in a $20billion lawsuit that lists both Paramount and CBS News as defendants, alleging that an October 60 Minutes segment featuring Kamala Harris was 'deceptively edited.'

DailyMail.com has reached out to Chef Geoffs for comment. Tracy - a chef with five eateries in the DC area - has been wed to O'Donnell for nearly 25 years

In an interview with Woman's World in 2021, O'Donnell, 51, called Tracy, 52, her 'best friend. Then the host of CBS Evenings, she has since stepped away, citing the rigors of the top job

Despite recent mediation talks reported by several outlets last weeks, a settlement has not been reached.

Paramount is looking to merge with Skydance later this year, and the deal requires federal approval.

Tracy, who is also a chef and owns five restaurants in the area, has been wed to O'Donnell for nearly 25 years.

The two share three children, Henry, Grace, and Riley,

In an interview with Woman's World in 2021, O'Donnell, 51, called Tracy, 52, her 'best friend.

'Having a partner who makes you laugh and who is supportive means everything,' the then host of CBS Evenings said.

She has since stepped away, citing the rigors of the to job. She is still a senior correspondent.

CBS, meanwhile, remains on the hook for the $20billion lawsuit, which Paramount is reportedly seeking to settle to the tune of $15-$20million.
MPs have been told they won't be able to use electric vehicle chargers in Westminster's New Palace Yard due to health and safety fears, a post on political commentary blog Guido Fawkes has revealed.

Users of the parliamentary estate were informed: 'These charging points are due to be removed on health and safety grounds following a review by the Safety and Fire teams, and in consultation with the Chair of the Administration Committee.'

A House of Commons spokesperson confirmed to This is Money: 'Due to developing health and safety guidance around electric car charging, two charging points in the underground car park have been closed. Eight fast chargers are available nearby, in addition to more within the estate.'

However, four of the chargers nearby in Speaker's Court - the entrance to Speaker's House - require the use of a 'charging card', which can only be obtained from the Speaker's Office. This is despite Government putting in place rules for the rest of the UK's charging infrastructure to provide contactless payments.

The update explained that 'space to charge [an EV] in Speaker's Court also cannot be guaranteed' due to high demand, and that the estate authorities have specified that members can't leave their electric cars overnight.

'Only use charging points on the estate for as long as necessary, moving your vehicle promptly once complete,' MPs are also instructed.

EV chargers in New Palace Yard, Westminster, have been removed due to new health and safety guidance

The House of Commons itself has limited parking, with members encouraged to use public transport wherever possible.

The New Palace Yard car park is available to MPs to use as well as staff of the House.

Charging provision on the Parliamentary estate won't necessarily get much better in the future either for willing EV users of Westminster.

The update said that 'longer term, the intention is to increase the capacity for charging electric cars on the estate' but zero emission drivers were also told that they wouldn't get first dibs.

Authorities added: 'However, the number of charging points will be dictated by the emerging electrical vehicle and fire safety guidance, and availability of adequate infrastructure/power.'

The Government itself doesn't have a role in the running of the Parliamentary estate, and as such the House of Commons is not bound by the Government's guidance on EVs.

'Only use charging points on the estate for as long as necessary, moving your vehicle promptly once complete' MPs were also instructed

This comes just days after This is Money revealed all government vehicles will be electric by 2027, and yet Prime Minister Keir Starmer's Range Rover will be exempt from the pledge.

The Department for Transport this month released details of its Decarbonising transport: a better, greener Britain strategy, which includes all central government cars and vans being zero emissions by the end of 2027.

The report also outlines the requirement to replace the combustion-engine fleet of vehicles used by 'arm's length bodies' - some 30,000 motors - which includes cars and vans owned and leased by the likes of the DVLA, Met Office and HMRC with zero-emission vehicles.

This is two years earlier than ministers will impose a ban on sales of new petrol and diesel passenger cars and seven years before new combustion vans are outlawed.

Government will have to be electric by 2027 but the PM's Range Rover is not included

But there will be exemptions from the rule - and among the types of vehicle receiving immunity are armoured cars, including the PM's gas-guzzling three-tonne V8 Range Rover Sentinel limos.

The Department for Transport's latest public charging stats for April showed that there's been a 28 per cent increase in publicly available chargepoints over the last 12 months.

But Vauxhall - which works with councils and leading charge point providers through its Electric Streets of Britain campaign - highlighted that the figures show there's has been a drop in the number of public charge points in some regions of the UK, with the North East and Northern Ireland reporting lower levels in April compared to January.

There's also been a drop it seems in Westminster...
The boss of Barclays has promised not to announce any more branch closures this year or next in a boost for the High Street.

Chief executive CS Venkatakrishnan, known as Venkat, made the pledge as he faced questions at the lenders annual general meeting from shareholders over its shrinking presence in towns and cities.

But the bank refused to rule out shutting more sites in the coming years.

Major UK lenders have been axing their branch networks as customers switch to digital banking. But critics have said the move risks cutting older people and vulnerable customers off from their finances.

Responding to a question on further closures, Venkat said: We dont have any plans to announce further bank branch closures in 2025 or 2026.

Following further probing on plans for the next three to five years, chairman Nigel Higgins told shareholders: We have not made plans that far out.

Pledge: Barclays Chief exec CS Venkatakrishnan (pictured), known as Venkat, has promised not to announce any more branch closures in 2025 or 2026

It isnt part of our thinking. We want to see how the current branch strategy plays out. He added: We have to face the reality that there is a massive shift away from branches to digital banking and we are trying to get the balance right.

According to the latest figures from consumer group Which?, more than 6,300 branches have shut in the last decade. Barclays has closed 1,236  more than any other lender.

The pledge not to close more branches for now comes after HSBC said last year that it would not shut more until at least 2026. Nationwide, Britains biggest building society, has promised to keep its sites open until the start of 2028.

There was heightened security at the QEII Centre in central London where the Barclays AGM was held yesterday. A mob of protesters gathered outside, waving Palestine flags and holding banners that accused it of banking on genocide.

Barclays has faced a backlash, including vandalism of branches, for lending to defence firms that supply Israel.

Pro-Palestine protesters disrupted the meeting several times in the first ten minutes before being removed.

But one shareholder told Higgins that the views expressed by the demonstrators were not necessarily shared by all of us.

In response to a question later in the meeting, the bank chairman said: We abhor the human suffering on all sides in the conflict in the Middle East.

We are not arbiters of foreign policy... we take the lead set by our government.

Barclays has said its role as a lender involves providing financial services to defence companies, including US, UK and European firms supplying products to Nato and other allies.

Last week, the bank reported a better-than-expected 19 per cent rise in first-quarter profits to 2.7billion. But it warned of a slowdown in dealmaking and lending amid tariff uncertainty.

Barclays shares fell 0.7 per cent, or 1.95p, to 296.15p yesterday.
Hackers have ramped up attacks on Britain with incidents doubling in recent months, the UKs cyber security agency said.

Hostile nation states led by China, Russia, Iran and North Korea are believed to be at the forefront of malign online activity, along with groups using ransomware to extort money.

In the wake of attacks on M&S, the Co-op and Harrods, Richard Horne, chief executive of the National Cyber Security Centre said there was a diverse and dramatic threat.

Weve managed more than 200 incidents since September. That includes twice as many nationally significant incidents as the same period a year ago, Horne told NCSCs national conference in Manchester.

In the year to last September, the NCSC managed 430 incidents. Almost all organisations run on IT that isnt their own. The concept of control is completely false, Horne added.

Cabinet Office minister Pat McFadden told the conference attacks were serious organised crime. It came as a survey found attacks may cost UK businesses as much as 64billion a year.
Ozempic maker Novo Nordisk has cut its sales and profit forecasts amid a surge in copycat weight-loss drugs.

The Danish pharmaceutical giant, which also makes Wegovy, fell victim to compounding  a practice in the US that allows pharmacies to produce replicas.

Compounders were given the green light by American authorities in 2022 due to a shortage of Ozempic, Wegovy and rival Eli Lillys Zepbound.

But Novos shares jumped as it beat profit expectations in the first half of the year ahead of a ban on the copycat drugs later this month.

Booming sales of Wegovy helped make Novo the most valuable listed company in Europe in 2024.

It was worth around 460billion in June, but its market value has since halved.

Copycat drugs: Ozempic maker Novo Nordisk, which also makes Wegovy, has fallen victim to compounding  a practice in the US that allows pharmacies to produce replicas

Prescriptions in the US, its biggest market, have not grown since February despite Novo having increased supplies.

Around a third of the American obesity drug market has been captured by compounding pharmacies, chief executive Lars Fruergaard Jorgensen said yesterday, dampening growth in the US.

Its unprecedented in our industry to have very large volumes of products flowing to patients that are not approved, he said. We were really surprised about that.

Jorgensen added that growth is expected to pick up in the second half of the year.

But Derren Nathan, an analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, said: Theres a clampdown on compounders, but question marks remain over its enforcement. The end of the shortage also raises questions about the health of US demand.

Thats also reflected in Novos deal last week with a US healthcare provider to provide Wegovy to patients at a discounted rate.

Yesterday, the drug maker cut its annual sales and profit forecasts for the first time since the launch of Wegovy four years ago.

It expects sales to grow between 13 per cent and 21 per cent, compared to the 16 per cent to 24 per cent range given earlier this year.

Profits are forecast to grow by between 16 per cent and 24 per cent in 2025, compared to previous guidance of 19 per cent to 27 per cent.

Potential new taxes on pharmaceuticals, imposed by President Donald Trump, could have a negative impact, it said.

Sales rose 18 per cent year-on-year to 8.9billion between January and March. Operating profits increased 20 per cent to 4.4billion. The shares rose 1.3 per cent.
Coastal locations that were hot property during the pandemic have seen house prices fall back down to earth, as buyers going back to the office now favour affordable suburbs.

Outside of the niche central London property market, the locations with the biggest price falls since the housing market peak in late 2022 are nearly all by the sea, according to data from estate agent Hamptons.

This includes Hastings, where house prices grew by nearly a third between the second half of 2019 and the second half of 2022, peaking at 278,060.

This was impacted by the 'race for space' trend during the pandemic, when successive lockdowns encouraged some buyers to seek homes with extra space.

The three areas with the biggest price falls since the pandemic housing market peak are in central London  the City of London, Westminster, and Kensington and Chelsea, according to data from estate agent Hamptons.

But these enclaves suffered due to an array of specific factors affecting the super-wealthy, including higher taxes on second homes and the abolition of non-dom tax status.

By the seaside: Areas such as Hastings (pictured) saw a property price boom during the pandemic, but values are now falling due to lifestyle changes and second home cost hikes

The Covid pandemic saw a rush of buyers newly able to work from home seizing the opportunity to move further away from towns and cities, often prioritising country and coastal locations which were closer to nature.

Now, though, many workers are being asked to attend the office more regularly - which means out-of-the-way locations are less practical.

The change may also be down to additional costs for second home owners.

Buyers will have to contend with higher stamp duty on second home purchases, a policy announced in the Autumn Budget, while those who already own a second home could see their council tax bill double.

Your browser does not support iframes.

Prices in Hastings fell by 8 per cent to 209,760 between 2022 and 2024, according to Hamptons.

Those who own homes there havent seen all their gains wiped out, though, as prices are still up 22 per cent compared to 2019.

In Thanet, home to hipster hotspot Margate as well as popular seaside resorts Ramsgate and Broadstairs, prices rocketed by nearly 27 per cent between the second half of 2019 and the second half of 2022 to reach 298,040.

Since then though, they have fallen back by 7.4 per cent to 276,050  though buyers will still have made a 20 per cent gain.

Torridge in North West Devon has also seen price falls. The coastal district, which includes the towns of Bideford and Great Torrington, saw average prices peak at 297,010 at the end of 2022, having surged by 33.2 per cent during the pandemic. They have since fallen by 7.4 per cent to 275,130.

Eastbourne, Hertsmere, Torbay and Worthing rounded out the top ten price fallers, with Hetfordshires Hertsmere the only one of these locations not on by the sea.

Fred Cook, southwest specialist and director of buying agency Prime Purchase, says this offers an opportunity for buyers.

'Now is a good time to buy a coastal home, with values off the highs seen post-Covid when buyers were swayed by the race for space and a coastal view to boot,' he says.

'But there is no one standalone reason why coastal values have fallen. Demand for coastal homes as primary residences has dropped quite dramatically as a result of people returning to the office and more urban locations with remote, picturesque areas no longer really working.

'The increase in council tax on second homes by many councils has also had an impact, with investment buyers fewer in number and inflated prices therefore much less achievable.'

There are beach towns which have continued to grow  though they havent maintained their pandemic momentum.

Neath Port Talbot in Wales has had the largest overall price growth of any coastal 'race for space' location between 2019 and 2024.

It saw growth of 36.2 per cent in 2019-22, followed by growth of 2.5 per cent between 2022 and 2024, meaning prices now sit at 154,970.

Richard Donnell, executive director at Zoopla, added: 'Coastal areas are experiencing weaker demand due to increased borrowing costs and second home tax changes, further evidenced by Zoopla's Q1 findings that placed southern England coastal towns like Bournemouth and Torquay in England's bottom ten markets for growth.

'However, coastal areas that are seeing growth in employment and economic activity, such as Cardiff and Newport in South Wales, are experiencing price rises, making them the markets with the best prospects for growth in Wales.'

Convenient commutes see city suburbs boom

While they may be less aesthetically appealing than the coast, Hamptons data shows that the suburbs of big cities such as Manchester, Liverpool and Birmingham are among today's biggest house price risers.

Many of these areas offer quick car or train commutes in to the city centre - helpful for those who are back in the office every day.

The data also revealed a focus on more affordable areas, with many of the places on the list having house prices well below the national average of around 268,000.

In 2023-24, Manchester's M8 postcode saw the biggest house price rise of any city location, rising 16 per cent to 207,900. It is to the north of the city centre and includes Crumpsall and Cheetham Hill.

Your browser does not support iframes.

Popular: Manchester's Crumpsall is one of the biggest house price risers of 2023-24

Liverpool's L27 postcode witnessed a 14.2 per cent jump from 131,320 to 149,920. It covers Netherley, a suburb to the south east of the city centre.

Leeds' LS2 district, which covers the city centre and Woodhouse neighbourhood, saw a 13 per cent rise to 171,730 which meant properties added just shy of 20,000 of value across the year.

Birmingham's B6 postcode, which takes in Aston, Birchfield and Witton and is the home of the Villa Park stadium, saw the fourth-largest price rise of any city postcode at 11.1 per cent according to Hamptons.

This meant properties increased in value from 151,020 to 167,760.

Jonathan Hopper, CEO of buying agent Garrington Property Finders, said: 'Demand is strong for suburban homes which offer a more balanced blend of space, garden, fresh air and an easy commute into the city.

'Nowhere is this trend more pronounced than in the desirable neighbourhoods on the fringes of the great northern cities.

With average prices in the north still well below those youd find in the Home Counties, theres also the prospect of big growth potential - and this is pushing up prices fast in some areas.

The combination of easy access to jobs, improving infrastructure and homes that still represent good value is stoking buyer demand, as is the fact that rents in many of these areas have risen disproportionately fast, making buying more cost-effective than renting for many people.'
On the evening of September 25, 1944, a squadron of Lancaster bombers rumbled through the dark autumn clouds above Frankfurt.

Rather than bombs, these engines of war dropped 200,000 packages containing small incendiary devices and cheaply made pistols.

It was hoped that the weapons would land behind the barbed wire fences of the forced labour and prisoner of war camps on the city's outskirts.

Four months after the beaches of Normandy were stormed by Allied troops, this airdrop  codenamed Operation Braddock  was meant to hasten the Third Reich's end.

Instead, this ambitious effort to arm Germany's enemies within stands as a testament to the great expectations and limited realities of innovation in war and determination in the struggle to defeat Nazism.

The mission to Frankfurt was one of several airdrops that comprised Operation Braddock, the aim of which was to encourage a wave of mass sabotage and panic across the Third Reich.

The idea first emerged from the fertile imaginations of the Special Operations Executive (SOE)  the irregular warfare department established by Winston Churchill in 1940 with the mission to 'set Europe ablaze'.

In 1943, the Minister in charge of SOE, Lord Selbourne, chose to interpret this order literally.

An example of 'Liberator' pistols that were designed to fire one bullet and then be reloaded. They were made to be dropped behind enemy lines to foment rebellion

British four-engine Avro Lancaster Mk strategic bombers of the 207th Bomber Squadron of Bomber Command of the Royal Air Force

Under his direction and with the support of the American SOE equivalent, the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), a plan was developed to manufacture small grenades filled with explosive gel.

These could be easily activated by the user pressing an external firing pin, which would set the device on a timer to ignite between 15 minutes and several hours later.

Millions of these grenades  dubbed 'Braddocks'  were manufactured into 1944.

Each Braddock was then packed into a cylindrical case with a card-sized instruction manual, printed in a dozen European languages, alongside an American-made single-shot Liberator pistol.

The resulting kit was cheap to produce, geared to violence and easy for the untrained to use.

Amidst planning for the June 1944 D-Day landings, Supreme Allied Commander Dwight D. Eisenhower offered his support for Operation Braddock.

He saw the arming of prisoners via airdrop as a means of creating chaos behind German lines once Allied boots landed on French soil.

It was at this point, however, that snags appeared in the plan. Royal Air Force chiefs balked at the idea of using precious bomber crews and cargo space to deliver crude weapons rather than building-shattering bombs to the Reich.

Instructions for starting fires that were produced to be dropped into Germany

A German-language fake newspaper, produced by the Allies

Concern was also voiced about the consequences those who took up the challenge of using the Braddocks might face from the German security forces.

The head of the Political Warfare Executive (PWE)  Robert Bruce Lockhart  was one such dissenter.

Lockhart had seen the bloody retribution dealt to anti-authoritarian agitators in the Soviet Union during his time as a spy and diplomat in Moscow at the end of the First World War.

He was also mindful that another brazen SOE scheme  Operation Anthropoid, the 1942 plan to assassinate the Reich Protector of Bohemia and Moravia, Reinhard Heydrich  had led to the murder and detention of thousands of Czech civilians and the brutal destruction by the Schutzstaffel (SS) of an entire village.

This fear of mass reprisals was further brought home to Lockhart when one of his subordinates casually concluded that during Operation Braddock, 'many foreign workers might be killed'.

As the man tasked with waging Britain's psychological warfare effort against the Third Reich  a key component of which was 'marketing' the Allied cause to occupied Europe  Lockhart was also concerned that Operation Braddock might be interpreted by Europe's oppressed as the British and Americans getting emaciated prisoners to do their fighting for them.

To square the circle of Lockhart and others' concerns, over the summer of 1944, Operation Braddock morphed into more of a psychological warfare operation.

With the air force's wary agreement, the number of Braddocks dropped over the Reich would be reduced.

Robert Bruce Lockhart, the head of the Political Warfare Executive

The deficit of impact was to be made up for by PWE broadcasting propaganda into the Reich to exaggerate the Braddocks' effect.

In the hours after the incendiaries were dropped on the outskirts of Frankfurt in September 1944, PWE used fake radio stations broadcasting from the Bedfordshire countryside into Germany to wreak havoc.

Under the guise of being Nazi-controlled propaganda radio, they informed the German public that thousands of mysterious fires were raging across the region.

Fed by intelligence assets on the ground, PWE broadcasters even distorted the story of a factory worker in Mainz being killed in an accident to suggest that a Braddock fire was to blame.

In taking this approach, PWE were following a classic dictum of psychological warfare  building a big lie from a kernel of truth.

The fact was that some of the Braddocks did reach their intended targets and those prisoners and resistance fighters did set fire to German barracks, communications and railway stations.

None of this was on a scale to match the original ambition of creating mass disruption behind German lines.

However, owing to PWE's injection of fake news-driven fear into the operation, the Gestapo and the SS did commit resources to confiscating Braddocks and chasing after phantom saboteurs, increasing anxiety and sapping morale at a crucial moment in Germany's war effort.

The last known picture of Adolf Hitler, taken outside his bunker in Berlin shortly before he killed himself

In this sense, PWE contributed to the wider allied war effort to destroy Nazi Germany.

This reached its climax in the spring of 1945, when Russian troops entered a bomb-battered Berlin defended by exhausted soldiers, old men and Hitler Youth.

By then, the Fuhrer had retreated to his bunker under the Chancellery building, where he ended his life on April 30, as the Reich he thought would last a thousand years crumbled around him.

As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Second World War's end, Operation Braddock provides an excellent example of the innovative lengths to which irregular forces like PWE, SOE and the OSS were prepared to go to defeat Hitler.

James Crossland is the author of Rogue Agent From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, The Untold Story of Robert Bruce Lockhart (Elliott & Thompson), out July in paperback, 10.99.
President Donald Trump's glamorous former aide Hope Hicks was back in the MAGA orbit in Miami this past weekend.

The former White House communications director, who was a pivotal figure in president's 2016 campaign and most of his first term, cozied up with pals Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner at glitzy events for the Florida city's Race Week.

In one snap, Hicks, 36, sported a baby blue dress with a white tassle skirt and posed with the president's eldest daughter Ivanka, 43, who wore a fitted gold number, to mark the Formula 1 Grand Prix.

Ivanka, who posted the image to her Instagram, wrote: 'Welcome to Miami.'

In other pictures, Hicks donned a bright red button-down dress and sneakers, and appeared with Ivanka and Kushner beside a race car.

The threesome had worked closely together in the first Trump administration as top aides to the president. Though, like Ivanka and Kushner, Hicks has not returned to D.C. for Trump's second term.

Indeed, ever since the ignominious end to the first administration, Hicks has kept an exceedingly low-profile.

'She's a very private person,' said one former colleague.

Former White House Communications Director Hope Hicks (left) reemerged in Trumpworld over the weekend in posts shared by first daughter Ivanka Trump (right) as they attended Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix events in Miami, Florida, where Ivanka lives

Jared Kushner (left), Hope Hicks (center left) and Ivanka Trump (right) pose for photos together and with racecar during 'Race Week' events in Miami, Florida this weekend. Hicks has kept a low-profile since leaving the first Trump administration in early 2021

She has rarely been seen in public with any members of the Trump family since her White House exit, though she did emerge in May last year, to testify in Trump's New York hush money trial.

So what has she been doing for the last four years?

A source close to Hicks exclusively reveals that she has been getting her love life in order.

In 2019, Hicks began dating Goldman Sachs banker Jim Donovan. Last year, they became engaged during a romantic hike in Italy.

However, our insider says that Hicks has recently been enjoying the single life in New York City, where she works in communications.

Hicks had originally been Ivanka's aide at the Trump Organization before the now-president snapped her up to be his 2016 campaign press secretary.

She was 26 and a former model, but received compliments from the press for handling the transition from fashion into politics well.

After Trump's shock 2016 win, Hicks entered the White House as the director of strategic communications, with the former Republican National Committee spokesperson, Sean Spicer, taking the more prominent role of Trump's first White House press secretary.

In August 2017, she was elevated to interim White House communications director.

Less than a month later the 28-year-old got the job full-time, making her the youngest person to ever hold the role.

During her tenure as communications director, Hicks started dating Rob Porter, the White House staff secretary, who is 11 years her senior.

But he resigned in scandal after the Daily Mail published abuse allegations leveled at him by his two ex-wives in February 2018. He denied the claims.

Hicks and Porter reportedly split days after the scandal blew up, but they were then spotted in public together months later.

Hope Hicks (right) and her former fiance, Goldman Sachs banker Jim Donovan (left), on a date night in Beverly Hills in February 2020

Hope Hicks is photographed arriving on Capitol Hill to testify before the House Intelligence Committee on February 27, 2018. She would resign from her post as White House communications director about a month later

President Donald Trump (left) points at Hope Hicks (right) outside the Oval Office on one of her final days working for him in 2018. She rejoined the administration in early 2020 as counselor to the president and an aide to Jared Kushner

Hope Hicks (right) is drawn testifying in Manhattan state court as part of then former President Donald Trump's (left) Stormy Daniels hush money trial last May

Hicks resigned from her White House job in late March 2018, after testifying before the House Intelligence Committee in February that year as part of the broader probe in potential Russian election interference.

She went on to work for Fox Corporation, as their chief of communications on a salary of over $1.8 million, but got pulled back into Trumpworld in February 2020, as a White House aide to Kushner.

After Trump then lost the 2020 election in the November, Hicks pushed the president not to spread the so-called 'big lie' - the false claim that widespread voter fraud cost him a second term.

In texts later unearthed by the House select committee investigating the January 6 riots, Hicks was seen bemoaning the future employment prospects of Trump officials after the violent assault on the U.S. Capitol Building.

'In one day he ended every future opportunity that doesnt include speaking engagements at the local Proud Boys chapter,' Hicks had written to Julie Radford, Ivanka's chief of staff, in an apparent reference to the neo-fascist militant organization.

Still, Hicks stayed somewhat politically engaged, working for Dave McCormick on his unsuccessful 2022 Pennsylvania Senate bid.

When Trump announced his 2024 presidential bid - in November 2022, a week after the midterms - Hicks didn't join the team.

But she remained a political ally, writing an op-ed for The New York Post the day before the 2024 election, predicting that he would win once again.
'I feel like I am disappearing,' a medically retired Defense Department professional told me over a meal near Capitol Hill.

Then, she bravely showed me a neuroimaging scan of her brain. It was disturbing. Her mind is wasting away.

Her neurons  the functional cells composing the 'grey matter' of her brain  have atrophied. Some structures exhibit neural activity ranking in the bottom 5th percentile of healthy people. A neurologist who reviewed the scans told her that her irreversible, progressive brain damage is consistent with an injury from a traumatic event.

Strangely, these images were, perhaps, more upsetting to me than the woman who I was sitting across the table from.

To her, these scans were reassuring because they appeared to prove what she and others have been telling the United States government for nearly a decade: that they aren't imagining their symptoms, or faking them, or suffering from a hereditary neurological disease.

Instead, this lifelong Defense Department professional and her doctors insist that this is evidence that she's the victim of an attack by a directed energy weapon, most likely wielded by a hostile foreign government.

And now, for the first time, a leading US neuroscientist and advisor to the US military is backing her up and the White House is finally taking notice.

For years, the United States intelligence community has assessed that it was 'very unlikely' that a foreign adversary or a 'novel' weapon was behind a mysterious cluster of neurological ailments that first began afflicting US diplomats serving at the US embassy in Havana, Cuba in 2016.

Since that time, more and more of America's spies, diplomats, law enforcement professionals and military operatives have come forward to claim that they too are victims of 'Havana Syndrome' or otherwise known as Anomalous Health Incidents.

For years, the United States intelligence community has assessed that it was improbable that a foreign adversary was behind a mysterious cluster of neurological ailments that first began afflicting US diplomats serving at the US embassy (pictured) in Havana, Cuba in 2016.

'I feel like I am disappearing,' a medically retired Defense Department professional told me over a meal near Capitol Hill. (Pictured: Catherine Herridge, follow her @C__Herridge)

But still, the official line from the US intelligence community has been that 'Havana Syndrome' is not real.

Then in March, I secured a rare interview with Dr James Giordano, a leading US neuroscientist and advisor to the US military.

Dr Giordano is the director for the Center for Disruptive Technology and Future Warfare at the National Defense University's Institute for National Strategic Studies, which is funded by the Department of Defense.

While Dr Giordano does not speak for the US government, he was permitted to speak on the record with my team.

According to Giordano, directed energy weapons  that use microwave or ultrasonic energy to cause damage to a target  exist. Furthermore, Giordano believes that US government personnel serving overseas have been attacked by these weapons.

When asked if reports of directed energy weapon attacks inside the US are also credible, Giordano said 'Absolutely.'

In December, I published my first reporting on the debilitating injuries afflicting these individuals. They're stories are all strikingly similar.

Survivors describe their 'old self slipping away' even 'vanishing' as their cognitive functions worsen. Others, including those who once held TOP SECRET security clearances and guarded the nation's secrets, simply say their brains are broken.

Dr Giordano (pictured) is the director for the Center for Disruptive Technology and Future Warfare at the National Defense University's Institute for National Strategic Studies, which is funded by the Department of Defense.

I interviewed a CIA officer, who I agreed to call 'Alice,' who described the fallout of an alleged directed energy weapon attack while she served in Africa.

'We're basically ticking time bombs,' Alice said of herself and colleagues. 'I have friends in nursing homes. I have friends with dementia and Parkinson's I have already started having to go to funerals.'

'We know how to fix a heart attack,' Alice explained, 'We don't know how to fix this.'

Dr Giordano explained that there are three types of directed energy attacks, including 'two forms of sonic weapon' and one that employs 'scalable and directable microwaves.'

The directed energy is aimed at the areas behind the ear, nose, mouth and eyes, turning those cavities into echo chambers that funnel damaging energy into the brain with catastrophic consequences.

He compared the impact of a directed energy attack to putting an iPhone in a microwave. After a few seconds, the exterior of the iPhone will appear unharmed, but the damage inside will be extensive.

'The actual sophistication of the phone would've been changed as a consequence of the microwave damage,' said Dr Giordano. 'Not only will it change then, but that change is durable and characteristically progressive.'

Asked who or what is behind the attacks, Giordano conceded that it is unclear  but, he claims, only three world powers possess such technology: the United States, Russia and China.

Indeed, according to my reporting, the involvement of Russia in these attacks would be logically consistent. For I found that many of the injured American operatives had been working on portfolios related to Russia, including reported Kremlin interference in the 2020 election.

Dr Giordano's comments stand in striking contrast to a January 2025 intelligence assessment released by the then-outgoing Biden Administration. At the time, the Biden administration report concluded that it was 'very unlikely' that a novel weapon had been used by a hostile nation against US government personnel.

But how could the Biden Administration have reached this conclusion in the face of such evidence?

Now, in response to my investigation, the Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard called the Biden intelligence assessment 'incomplete and in some cases contradictory.' And DNI Gabbard says she is committed to 'initiating a new investigation into Anomalous Health Incidents and making the findings public.'

A CIA official also told me that CIA Director John Ratcliffe is also 'determined to ensure all relevant information is examined and that all perspectives are heard on this matter given its seriousness.'

This is potentially life-altering news for 'Havana Syndrome' sufferers, like retired counterintelligence officer Mike Beck, who was on assignment for the National Security Agency when he said he was attacked in 1996.

His alleged attack came before the spate of attacks on diplomats at the US embassy in Cuba in 2016, and it indicates that these incidents have been occurring for much longer than previously believed.

Today, Beck's brain injury is so severe that he has a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease and dementia. He recently moved into an assisted living facility because his wife of 40 years can no longer care for him at home.

Beck said he and his partner were hit by a microwave energy weapon after they 'walked in on an operation that the hostile country was doing' against the United States. But it wasn't until a leading national expert on Parkinson's disease wrote on Beck's behalf that he was able to secure workers' compensation for his Parkinson's disease  and his fight is the norm.

In response to my investigation, the Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard (pictured) called the Biden intelligence assessment 'incomplete and in some cases contradictory.'

With no exceptions, every Havana Syndrome survivor describes an uphill battle for recognition of their injuries and to secure much-needed benefits.

'We'd applied for workers' compensation and the agencies involved did everything they could to not approve my application,' Beck told me.

Even after finally securing coverage to pay for his assisted living, the Becks say the government is more than three months behind on its payments.

'It's scary,' his wife Rita said, 'When am I going to get the call that says you're going to have to pay this? We still haven't gotten a check and it'd be devastating because we're not living on a whole ton of money.'

The Labor Department has now acknowledged Beck's brain injury as the result of his government service. Yet the Becks are still waiting on the government's outstanding payment of more than $25,000.00
Killing season at Labor HQ

Even though it's all celebrations publicly over at Labor HQ, a brouhaha is breaking out within the new-look parliamentary party as the factional left and right go to war divvying up the spoils of victory.

The left faction surged, picking up more seats than the right, allowing it to impose its power over the traditionally dominant right wing. The left faction is now coming after senior figures in the right as cabinet positions are being determined.

The PM doesn't get to pick his frontbenchers - the factions do. But the fact Anthony Albanese is also the biggest left-wing factional gorilla in the room means the power of the left is even greater.

Senior right-wing ministers such as Ed Husic, Jason Clare and Chris Bowen are at risk of demotion if the left gets its way.

It has already been decided that outgoing senior right-wing figure Bill Shorten's cabinet position will be filled by someone from the left and there may be more.

Former head of the trade union movement Ged Kearney will rise into the ministry alongside other left-wing operatives such as the PM's assistant minister Patrick Gorman.

Former right wing Labor PMs, such as Paul Keating, are aghast at the expected shift to the left Labor is now likely to make as it takes control of the Senate in conjunction with a Greens balance of power.

Even though it's all celebrations publicly over at Labor HQ, a brouhaha is breaking out within the new-look parliamentary party as the factional left and right go to war divvying up the spoils of victory. (Anthony Albanese, centre right, is pictured celebrating Saturday's election victory with his fiancee Jodie Haydon, right, son Nathan, centre left, and Senator Penny Wong, left)

It has already been decided that outgoing senior right-wing figure Bill Shorten's cabinet position will be filled by someone from the left and there may be more. (Shorten is pictured with his wife Chloe in November 2024)

'It's over, the Labor Party won't be what it used to be', one senior factional figure in the Labor right tells Inside Mail.

'The economic reforming legacy of Bob [Hawke] and Paul [Keating] will become a more distant memory than it already is.'

'Name one serious economic reform we did in Albo's first term?' adds the disgruntled Labor figure.

Even within the right, divisions are starting to surface as ministers manoeuvre to survive. Deputy PM Richard Marles is reportedly pushing to take cabinet positions off the NSW factional right to shore up his Victorian power base as the left starts to run over the top of the once-dominant right.

'We're eating our own rather than banding together to hold off the left that always got more than it should have when it was just a pimple on the party and we ran the show,' another right-wing MP tells me.

'They don't care; it's classic hard left bullying', the MP adds.

While it will be all smiles when Albo finally announces his new-look ministry, behind the scenes those likely to miss out or get demoted are seething, vowing to fight back 'however we have to'.

It's not just the right at risk of being shut out by the PM and his senate sidekick Penny Wong. The left's own Tanya Plibersek is set to cop another demotion after Albo dumped her from her beloved education portfolio to environment after the 2022 election win.

The left's own Tanya Plibersek (right) is set to cop another demotion after Albo (left) dumped her from her beloved education portfolio to environment after the 2022 election win

Senior right-wing ministers such as Ed Husic (left), Jason Clare and Chris Bowen (right) are at risk of demotion if the left gets its way

Plibersek, the PM's 'frenemy number one', is at risk of losing her cabinet spot, although Labor sources tell me she'll hang on for pure optics, 'and just get pushed into the worst and most irrelevant portfolio Anthony can find'.

They do say that what happens behind the scenes in politics is like watching sausages get made. And the chaos within the ranks of Labor is nothing compared to the shenanigans going on as the hapless Liberals try to work out who gets the poisoned chalice of being the next leader of what's left of the parliamentary party.

Still, the anger and resentment inside Labor will reverberate for months, if not years.

Meanwhile, expect shockwaves as policy changes are announced by an emboldened ALP dominated by MPs and senators who, back in their uni days, believed Australia had to become a socialist panacea modelled on the sort of excesses Gough Whitlam never got the chance to enact because he only survived as PM for three years.

With friends like these...

Anthony Albanese took the opportunity at his first media conference after his thumping election win to thank the many world leaders who had reached out to him since his victory.

One of those was the Singaporean PM, whom he also congratulated for his election win on the very same night Albo emerged triumphant.

As resounding as Labor's win was, it was nothing compared to the victory Singapore's People's Action Party had, securing 83 out of the 93 seats on offer.

While that's nothing compared to the way WA Labor likes to win in the one-party state the west has become in recent times, it's actually a closer result than you usually see in Singapore.

That's because it's not actually a true democracy. The opposition has limits placed on its ability to campaign, and the ruling party has never lost!

In his first press conference since being re-elected, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (pictured) congratulated the Singaporean PM for his election win on the very same night

Perhaps Albo doesn't realise Singapore isn't a democracy like we are. Or maybe he has plans to use his newfound power to emulate the success of the PAP in Singapore.

Either way, it's a little unusual for a democratic western leader to congratulate a non-democratic leader on an election win, just because they pretend to be a true democracy and hold stacked elections.

Putin doesn't head to the polls again until five years from now. He won last year's fraudulent Russian election with 88.5 per cent of the vote. After the size of Albo's win he may well still be around then to congratulate the Kremlin on another historic victory.

Albo's easy ride at first presser

Speaking of Albo's first presser since his victory, can you guess what the first word uttered by the assembled media was when the PM waved through his first question?

'Congratulations.' Not exactly a swift return to holding the newly elected government to account!

We won't go too hard on the gesture, since it was delivered by the Australian Financial Review's Phil Coorey, one of the best in the business working out of Canberra.

Let's just hope the role of the Fourth Estate is a little more robust going forward, because with the opposition crippled by the election outcome, it's capacity to hold Labor to account in its second term could be severely limited.

Postal votes cut short Teals' victory lap

Two teals couldn't help themselves on election night, claiming victory before the full-time siren was sounded on votes being counted.

The only problem was that with postal votes favouring their Liberal challengers, Zoe Daniel and Monique Ryan looked a bit like George W. Bush declaring victory during the war in Iraq.

Daniel was eventually bested by Tim Wilson in the inner-Melbourne seat of Goldstein. Kooyong isn't finalised yet but Ryan will no doubt still be sweating.

Whoever wins, it's been funny to watch the sanctimonious teals claim victory too soon and thus be forced to reflect on their own hubris.

Election schadenfreude

Will Greens leader Adam Bandt lose his seat? We reckon so.

But as we await absolute confirmation, one senior Liberal MP, no doubt shattered by the loss on Saturday night, did ring to tell us: 'As bad as what happened to us is, I can live with it a little better if that pair [Bandt and Ryan] also loses.'

It's not quite a case of the enemy of my enemy is my friend - a saying believed to have originated in ancient Indian political philosophy, specifically from the Sanskrit text Arthashastra - but it's close enough.

The counting continues

Greens chief Adam Bandt is struggling despite the support of Gen-Z podcaster Abbie Chatfield

Liberals the Coalition weak link

The Nationals must be looking at their Coalition partners wondering why they can't do better given how well the country-based minor party has performed at consecutive losing elections.

In 2022, when the Coalition lost 19 seats, the Nats didn't lose a single one of them. This time around they've only lost one, and might actually offset it by winning another one off Labor, despite a bloodbath for the Liberals who look set to lose at least 13 more and are behind in another of others still too close to call.

That's only going to give the Nats greater say in the combined party room and around the shadow cabinet table, which might promote policies more favourable to people living in the bush than in the cities.

This could be a major problem for the Coalition's chances of returning to power anytime soon, because while the Nats have done well hanging onto their seats, there really aren't many more they can target to grow much further.

The opposition need to win seats in the cities, and that's the job of Liberals, who are a dying breed in the parliament.

This is a preview for tomorrow's edition of Inside Mail, the must-read media and politics column exclusive for DailyMail+ subscribers
A rail union is demanding the NSW government modify Sydney Metro trains to have staff cabins, despite the service being driverless.

The demand is part of ongoing enterprise agreement negotiations between the Rail, Train and Bus Union (RTBU) and Metro Trains Sydney (MTS).

The RTBU has insisted cabins on the driverless Metro will keep workers safe in the face of escalating violence on the rail network.

'Cabins are needed on board for the safety of staff - they are not 'driver's cabins' as there are no drivers on Metro trains,' a spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia.

'As incidents of anti-social behaviour and assaults have increased across the rail network, workers need a safe space aboard the train to ensure both their safety and the safety of passengers.

'There has been no discussion with the operator or Transport for NSW regarding the infrastructure cost to install the cabins.'

The Opposition has lashed the request, with NSW Liberal Deputy Leader and Shadow Transport Minister Natalie Ward describing the cabins as a 'union stitch-up'.

'The RTBU leadership have already torpedoed the train network, they need to keep their hands off the Metro,' Ms Ward said in a statement to Daily Mail Australia.

A rail union is demanding the NSW government modify Sydney Metro trains to have staff cabins, despite the service being driverless (Martin Place Metro station is pictured)

The Rail Union is demanding the Sydney Metro Trains be refit with staff cabins

'The Government should rule out yet another union stitch-up that will cost taxpayers millions of dollars and disrupt commuter services.'

Ms Ward also questioned the practicality of retrofitting the advanced rail system.

'We already have a driver on the driverless Metro, retro-fitting cabins onto these state-of-the-art trains is pathetic and an example of why Sydney is losing momentum under the Government,' she said.

In a bulletin issued to members this week, the RTBU said the proposal is 'being actively considered' by MTS.

'This is a very large piece of work and will involve negotiating with Transport for NSW, Sydney Metro and the regulator ONRSR as it involves altering approved infrastructure,' the union stated.

NSW Transport Minister John Graham told Daily Mail Australia the government would 'not be supporting the changes'.

'Metro trains are driverless and they will remain so,' he added.

Other requests from the RTBU include body-worn cameras for staff, pressure mats, and designated staff seating at Metro stations.

NSW Shadow Transport Minister Natalie Ward (pictured) has called it a 'union stitch-up'

Industrial action has plagued the Sydney Metro in recent months and is being blamed for delays to the under-construction Sydenham to Bankstown extension.

Disruptions on the line are estimated to have resulted in 130 days lost to industrial action, with the project now delayed from its original opening planned for this year.

A union stand off between the state government and Sydney Trains saw major delays and headaches for travellers earlier this year.

Industrial action on Sydney Trains has been suspended until July 1, following a ruling by the Fair Work Commission.

The RTBU remain in negotiations with the MTS, and are set to meet again on May 14.
Ioan Gruffudd's ex-wife has claimed, in court documents, she will be homeless in three weeks because her financial situation is so 'dire'.

Alice Evans claimed that the Welsh actor was living in comfort in a $5,500 a month apartment with a home gym while she and their two children cannot afford 'basic necessities'.

Alice, 56, a British American actress, claims she will be on the streets by June 1st because she cannot pay her rent and all the shelters in Los Angeles are full.

She accuses Ioan, 51, who married his second wife Bianca Wallace last month, of 'intentionally' turning down acting gigs to keep his income low during their split and avoid having to pay her more.

The bombshell legal filing at a court in Los Angeles comes after Ioan accused Alice of using cocaine in front of their two daughters - and even offering the girls the drug.

Ioan, who starred in the Fantastic Four superhero movie, filed for divorce from Alice in March 2021, shortly after she announced on social media that her husband of 14 years was walking out on her and their children.

Since then the former couple have been engaged in an increasingly bitter divorce which has been playing out in legal filings at the Los Angeles Superior Court.

In her latest court claim, Alice writes that she has long been in a 'precarious' financial situation and has already applied for benefits to make ends meet.

Meanwhile, in February this year, Alice revealed she's being evicted from her LA home after being 'unable to pay her rent'

Alice and Ioan formally divorced in July 2023 [pictured in 2016]

Alice accused Ioan, 51, who married his second wife Bianca Wallace, both pictured, of 'intentionally' turning down acting gigs to keep his income low during their split and avoid having to pay her more

In September last year Ioan agreed to pay her $3,000 per month in child support and $1,500 a month in spousal support.

But Alice claims that her financial situation has become 'dire' because that $4,500 is not enough to live in Los Angeles.

Even combined with her earnings from attending fan conventions - she starred in the 2011 TV series The Vampire Diaries, among other projects - was not enough.

The money is 'insufficient to cover the children's and my basic necessities', Alice writes in a 60-page court filing.

During a hearing in March this year, Ioan claimed that he 'does not really believe I am really facing eviction' and secretly has enough money to pay for it, Alice writes.

She claims: 'He went on to testify that I was faking eviction in an effort to make him look bad and negatively impact his public image, and even, quite bizarrely, to 'increase Alice's personal exposure'.

'Apart from the fact that this is simply untrue, it is both shocking and offensive that Petitioner would stoop to such a level as to accuse me of faking not only my own impending homelessness and level of poverty but that of the two children we share who he has chosen not to see in order to affect him in some way. I am astonished by his assertions'.

Despite working constantly including teaching French, Italian, piano, tutoring actors and selling merch related to her career, Alice claims she hasn't been able to pay her rent.

Sharing a sweet throwback snap with her two daughters, Alice shared that she is like many others in Los Angeles trying to find a new place to live

Ioan and Bianca have 'managed to upgrade to a more spacious apartment for just the two of them with a pool, a home gym and more natural light, for which they pay $5,500 per month', it is alleged

She writes that in January her landlord began eviction proceedings, known in the US as an unlawful detainer case.

By June 1st Alice will have to be out of the home she and her two children with Ioan live in, she claims.

She writes: 'I was pleased that we are able to come to an agreement that allows us to continue living at this apartment through June 1, 2025, so the children can continue in their current schools through the end of the school year.

'It is my belief that Petitioner is taking advantage of my dire financial situation in order to force me into agreeing to an overall settlement that is not in my best interests nor the best interests of our children'.

Meanwhile, Ioan and Bianca have 'managed to upgrade to a more spacious apartment for just the two of them with a pool, a home gym and more natural light, for which they pay $5,500 per month', it is alleged.

Alice claims she appealed to Ioan for help being the co-signer on an apartment because her income is not high enough for most homes.

But he rejected her requests, Alice says in the court documents, adding that she has contacted homeless shelters in Los Angeles but they are 'all full', in part due to the recent wildfires.

'Much as I hope to find a home for us, I need to be realistic and given that the date of June 1st is quickly approaching, I will probably have to place all of our belongings in storage and find a motel or similar temporary lodging for the children and I,' Alice writes.

'It is incredibly scary - I have friends who have offered to put me and the girls up should we not find a place, but only for a week or two'.

The newly-weds took to their Instagram to share a grainy video of the them tying the knot in a romantic ceremony, captioning their posts: 'Mr & Mrs Gruffudd. Marriage now, wedding later'

As their Instagram caption suggests, they have officially tied tied the knot in a formal ceremony, with their wedding reception celebration to follow at a later time

Their happy news was met with congratulatory messages from their Instagram followers, with Bianca's sister Chanel remarking: 'So proud! Very exited to have a new brother in our family.'

Alice also makes claims about Ioan's acting career: his latest movie, Bad Boys: Ride or Die has grossed more than $403 million worldwide but it is unclear how much he will get from it.

According to Alice, Ioan once made more than $1 million a year but has been turning away work on purpose.

She claims: 'I believe that Petitioner is intentionally not taking jobs because we are in the middle of litigating the financials of the dissolution of our marriage.

'I believe that he will go back to working regularly, and therefore earn additional income after the support orders are set'.

A judge has ordered that both sides attend court on August 2nd for Ioan's application to renew a restraining order on Alice.

In court documents Ioan says he will testify, as will Bianca and Linda Blank, who was one of the managers of both Ioan and Alice's fan clubs between 2016 and 2014.

Ioan claims that Alice has repeatedly breached the terms of the order, which was put in place in August 2022, including by barging into their child's school while he was having a meeting with a teacher - despite checking they had not booked an appointment at the same time.

Another alleged incident happened in July 2020 when Ioan received panicked phone calls and text messages from his children, stating that their mother was 'openly consuming cocaine'.

He added that while he was on a Facetime call he witnessed Alice attempt to give their daughters the Class A drug, the documents he filed in court say.

It came after the children claimed their mother had left the door to their family home unlocked so a 'drug dealer could enter', the documents also say.

Ioan's lawyers refused to comment when contacted by MailOnline.


Pupils will receive their GCSE results via app in future after a Government pilot this summer.

Ministers hope the app could be rolled out as early as 2026, meaning teenagers will no longer have to find out their grades in person.

However, pupils will still receive a hard copy, and most are expected to continue to go to their schools as normal on results day to meet teachers and get advice.

The app will allow the results to be kept digitally by pupils, accessible on their phones, for quick retrieval if needed for job or further education applications.

The Department for Education (DfE) said it will cut bureaucracy and save pupils scrabbling around for paper documents.

The plan is for people to be able to access their own records via the app throughout their working lives.

This summer, the scheme will be trialled with 95,000 pupils in Greater Manchester and the West Midlands, ahead of a full roll-out.

Education minister Stephen Morgan said: It is high time exam records were brought into the 21st century, and this pilot will allow schools and colleges to focus on what they do best: teaching the next generation rather than being bogged down in bureaucracy.

Pupils will receive their GCSE results via app instead of paper in future after a Government pilot this summer (pictured: Education Minister Stephen Morgan)

The Education Record app is part of the Governments wider pledge to harness technology to make public services more efficient.

Officials estimate the app will save schools up to 30 million a year once the full roll-out is complete.

And they say it could sit in the new gov.uk wallet currently being designed by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, which can be used for official digital documents such as drivers licenses.

This week, Mr Morgan visited the Hathershaw College, a secondary school in Oldham, which has been trialling the app since 2024.

Mark Giles, principal, said the Education Record was accurate, verifiable and could be presented to providers without delay.

He added: We believe this will reduce administrative burdens on schools, and in the future could also be utilised by parents of younger children to support transition from primary to secondary school.

James Bowen, assistant general secretary at school leaders union NAHT, said: It makes a lot of sense to look into modernising how exam results are handled and any moves to cut bureaucracy and costs are welcome.

Ministers hope the app could be rolled out as early as 2026, meaning teenagers will no longer have to collect their results in person (pictured: Brighton College pupils picking up their GCSE results last year)

However, pupils will still receive a hard copy, and schools will continue to open as normal on results day to welcome pupils and give advice (pictured: a DfE prototype for the new 'Education Record' app)

It is vital that any changes work for schools and colleges, as well as pupils, at what is always a busy, pressurised time for school leaders and their staff.

Pepe DiIasio, General Secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said: 'The Education Record app represents a positive step forward in making greater use of digital technology in education and will bring benefits to students, schools and colleges.

'Up until now, the development of education technology has tended to take place in a frustratingly piecemeal fashion  essentially led by the market rather than via a cohesive national approach.

'We would like to see a much more strategic vision.

'This should extend to exams themselves which continue to be largely conducted via pen and paper, creating a massive burden in terms of secure storage and transportation of papers and scripts.

'A digital exam system would improve matters for everyone involved and we urge the government to invest in creating the infrastructure schools and colleges need to make this a reality.'
Labour's 'tough' sanctions against criminals who refuse to attend their sentencing in court have faced ridicule after it emerged the new punishments will be imposed for mere weeks.

The Government unveiled new legislation granting judges the power to impose solitary confinement on offenders who fail to attend.

But the measures will impose the penalty for a maximum of three weeks.

Other punishments such as having televisions removed from their cells or being denied extra gym sessions can also be withdrawn under the new law  but only for up to six weeks.

The measures are meant to provide a deterrent to criminals who know they are already facing very long sentences, and are unlikely to be influenced by the threat of extra jail time.

Tory MP Jack Rankin said: 'The idea that taking away TV time or extra gym sessions will deter the country's most dangerous criminals from behaving appallingly is pathetic. This is laughable.

'Labour should stop pretending they're tough on crime and get serious about sentencing.'

The powers in the Victims and Courts Bill, published today, come in the wake of a series of high-profile cases where murderers and other criminals refused to leave their cells to be told their fate.

Axel Rudakubana refused to come into the dock at Liverpool Crown Court earlier this year for his sentencing for the murder of three young girls in Southport

Thomas Cashman, (left) the killer of Olivia Pratt-Korbel, refused to attend his sentencing. Right, Jordan McSweeney refused to come to the dock to hear his fate for murdering 35-year-old law graduate Zara Aleena as she walked home in Ilford, east London, in June 2022

A Ministry of Justice spokesman said the Bill's measures meant 'cowardly' offenders 'who attempt to evade justice could be subject to tough sanctions'.

The previous Conservative government published a Bill last year which would have introduced similar powers but it was abandoned due to the general election being called.

Like the Tories' proposals, the new measures will also allow criminals who refuse to attend sentencing hearings to be handed up to two years extra in jail.

Labour's Bill will allow judges to impose the additional punishments on convicted offenders who refuse to leave their cell or whose 'disruptive and disrespectful behaviour results in their removal from the courtroom'.

In January Southport killer Axel Rudakubana refused to come into the dock as he was sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court, after previously disrupting proceedings repeatedly with claims he felt ill.

He was sentenced to a minimum of 52 years for the 'sadistic' murders of Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, Bebe King, six, and Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, last summer.

Likewise, Jordan McSweeney who murdered aspiring lawyer Zara Aleena, 35, in east London in 2022 refused to attend his sentencing hearing. He was handed a minimum tariff of 38 years, later cut to 33 by the Court of Appeal.

So, too, did drug dealer Thomas Cashman who murdered nine-year-old Olivia Pratt-Korbel when she was caught in crossfire in her home in Liverpool in August 2022. -Cashman was handed a minimum tariff of 42 years.

But Farah Naz, Miss Aleena's aunt, said: 'When someone already has a 30-years plus sentence is this going to make much of a difference? Maybe it will, maybe it won't.'

Farah Naz, Zara Aleena's aunt, expressed reservations about the proposals

Southport victims Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe and Alice da Silva Aguiar, left to right

Zara Aleena was murdered as she walked home from a night out with friends in east London

She urged ministers to consider introducing additional powers to allow sentencing hearings to be broadcast in a criminal's prison cell if they refuse to leave, and for CCTV to be installed so families can watch the offender's reaction to their sentence.

Justice minister Alex Davies-Jones said: 'Justice isn't optional  we'll make sure criminals face their victims.'

But Robby Potter, one of the most seriously-injured survivors of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing - who was blasted through the heart with shrapnel while waiting to collect his daughter - said: 'It's nowhere near enough. For someone given life, an extra two years is a joke.

'For terrorism, they should have no privileges.'

Martin Hibbert, who suffered a spinal cord injury in the same attack, said ministers needed to 'go further' and introduce 'meaningful deterrents' to stop the most serious criminals hiding from victims and their relatives.

In 2020 Hashem Abedi  whose suicide bomber brother Salman Abedi detonated the deadly home-made device  was branded a 'coward' when he hid in his cell as he was given a record 55-year minimum term for 22 counts of murder.

Mr Hibbert, whose daughter Eve suffered severe brain damage in the atrocity when she was just 14, said: 'While I welcome the Government's attempt to make offenders face up to the consequences of their crimes, I remain concerned that the measures in this Bill don't go far enough  especially for the most serious offenders, like Hashem Abedi, who chose cowardice over accountability.

Olivia Pratt-Korbel, nine, died when a bullet fired by Thomas Cashman hit her as he chased a drug dealer who tried to run into her home in Knotty Ash, Liverpool, in August 2022

Manchester Arena bomb plotter Hashem Abedi refused to leave his cell as a court heard emotional testimony from bereaved relatives in 2020

'I was denied the chance to look Abedi in the eye when he was sentenced  a moment I had waited years for.

'That injustice stays with me, and I know I'm not alone.

'The trauma of losing a loved one, or surviving a terror attack, is only made worse when the person responsible refuses to show up, face the court, and hear the pain they've caused.

'Two extra years in prison may sound tough on paper, but for someone already serving a life sentence or a whole life order, it's meaningless.

'The loss of privileges or being confined to a cell for a few weeks won't undo the damage of them refusing to attend court.

'Victims deserve more than symbolic punishments  we need meaningful deterrents.

'This Bill is a step in the right direction, but I urge the Government to listen to victims and go further.

'The justice system must send a clear message: if you commit the worst crimes, you will not be allowed to hide from justice or from those whose lives you've shattered.'
The only surviving son of disgraced legal scion Alex Murdaugh has tied the knot in a lavish celebration at a former hunting estate in South Carolina - and is asking for contributions to pay for his marital home as a wedding gift.

Buster Murdaugh, 32, married his long-term girlfriend Brooklynn White, 29, in an extravagant ceremony surrounded by family and friends in the heart of the Lowcountry on Saturday May 3.

The legal dynasty heir opted for a monochrome outfit, sporting a white blazer and shirt with black pants and a bow tie.

A huge RMA was emblazoned across his cumberbund, spelling out the initials of his full name Richard Alexander Murdaugh - a name he shares with his killer father.

His bride, lawyer Brooklynn, looked radiant in a white off-the-shoulder gown with a white and blue floral bouquet.

When the night fell, the bride and groom and their guests donned white cowboy hats.

The couple chose the exclusive Coosaw Point - a luxury riverside community - for their nuptials, where a 50-person wedding will set a couple back around $26,000 for the venue costs alone.

Based on Ladys Island - just minutes from downtown Beaufort and Hilton Head - the venue's website boasts amazing river views, vast green spaces and plenty of southern charm.

Buster Murdaugh and Brooklynn White arriving at Colleton County Court in South Carolina for Alex Murdaugh's double murder trial in February 2023

The only surviving son of the disgraced legal scion tied the knot with his long-term girlfriend in a lavish celebration at Coosaw Point (pictured)

Based on Ladys Island, the venue's website boasts amazing river views, vast green spaces and plenty of southern charm

The couple opted for an outdoor ceremony on the lawns, followed by a reception in a huge tent decorated with beautiful blue and white florals and green tablecloths.

It's not clear how much the extravagant ceremony set the couple back but DailyMail.com has learned that mandatory costs include a $10,000 venue rental fee, $2,500 wedding coordinator fee and starting price of around $100 per person for food and drinks. The venue also charges for staffing and rental of items such as seating and linen.

Photos of the wedding show the couple also splashed out on multiple other vendors including two live bands, a wedding planner, a photographer, a florist who provided a breathtaking floral arch and a baker who created an elegant four-tier white wedding cake.

Notably absent from the nuptials were Busters immediate family members after his father Alex notoriously murdered his mom Maggie, 52, and younger brother Paul, 24, on the wealthy familys sprawling estate in the summer of 2021.

It was June 7, 2021 when the mother and son were found shot dead by the dog kennels on the vast estate at Moselle.

Alex called 911 claiming he had come home to find their bloodied bodies.

But his lies quickly unraveled.

Three months later, the powerful attorney orchestrated a botched murder-for-hire plot on himself, so that Buster would get a life insurance windfall.

Paul, Maggie, Alex and Buster Murdaugh (left to right). Alex Murdaugh was convicted of murdering his wife Maggie and son Paul in June 2021

Moment Alex Murdaugh was found guilty in March 2023. Paul is now the only surviving son

Days later, he checked into rehab for a decades-long opioid addiction.

It later emerged that, days before the murders, he had been exposed for stealing millions of dollars from his law firm clients.

Alex is now behind bars serving life in prison for the brutal murders - as well as for a slew of financial crimes.

He continues to claim his innocence in his family's murders.

It was not immediately clear which of Buster's surviving family members attended his happy day.

But Busters new wife doesnt appear to have been put off by the cursed Murdaugh family name.

Her social media shows she has already proudly taken her new husbands name, becoming Brooklynn White Murdaugh.

As part of their celebrations, the couple listed three wedding registries, asking their guests for contributions to their House Project Fund, as well as a selection of homeware items to furnish it.

A choice of $85 patterned tissue box covers and a $545 Mahjong game kit feature on one of the wish lists.

Brooklynn and Buster's wedding website reveals they got married on Saturday May 3

The couple asked for contributions to pay to help pay for their marital home as a wedding gift

Buster Murdaugh and Brooklynn White walk their dogs in Hilton Head, South Carolina, in March 2023

Busters new wife doesnt appear to have been put off by the Murdaugh family name with her social media showing she has already proudly taken her new husbands name

None of the guests have yet opted to splurge $999.95 on a wanted Dyson Robot vacuum or a $69 bottle of Glam wash laundry detergent.

The newlyweds also appear to share the Murdaugh familys love of four-legged friends, with several dog-themed items making it onto the registries.

Among the items the couple asked for from their guests was a gold-colored, hand gilded dog head coat hook retailing for $95.

A patterned wooden box with a gold dog perched on top will set one generous guest back $648.

While a bronze golden retriever lamp retailing for $415 also made the list.

Famously, it was the Murdaughs' dogs who helped nail Alex for the murders of his wife and son.

At his murder trial, a damning cellphone video of a dog was played to the court.

The video had been taken by Paul to send to his friend minutes before he was shot dead.

The newlyweds also appear to share the Murdaugh familys love of dogs, with several dog-themed items making it onto the registries

A gold-colored dog head coat hook retailing for $95 and a box with a gold dog perched on top for $648 made it onto the list

A choice of $85 patterned tissue box covers and a $545 Mahjong game kit feature on the wish list

None of the wedding guests have yet opted to splurge $999.95 on a Dyson Robot vacuum or a $69 bottle of Glam wash laundry detergent

In the background, Alexs distinctive voice was heard yelling at the familys beloved dog Bubba who had just caught a chicken.

Unbeknown to Alex, the bombshell video proved he had lied about his alibi for that night - and crucially placed him at the crime scene at the time of the murders.

Despite the evidence, Buster stood by his father during his murder trial, attending court for every day of his six-week case.

Brooklynn was also there every day by her long-term partners side.

When Buster took the stand to testify in his fathers defense, he revealed that he was with Brooklynn when his dad called to tell him his mom and brother were dead.

Brooklynn grew up in Rock Hill, South Carolina, before attending the University of Alabama where she earned a bachelor's degree in political science, her LinkedIn shows.

She then returned to her home state to study at University of South Carolina School of Law.

She got her bar admission in 2022 and now works as an associate at Lyles & Associates law firm.

Lawyer Brooklynn supported Buster through every day of his father's murder trial

The Murdaugh family come together to attend the funeral of family matriarch Libby Murdaugh in March 2024

The pair chose the exclusive Coosaw Point - a luxury riverside community - for their nuptials

A 50-person wedding at the luxury venue will set a couple back around $26,000 for the venue costs alone

There, she specializes in construction litigation, insurance litigation, insurance coverage litigation and estate planning, according to the company website.

It is not clear where Brooklynn and Buster met but he also attended the University of South Carolina School of Law - before he was kicked out for plagiarism.

Buster comes from a long line of prominent lawyers with the Murdaugh family wielding power over the Lowcountry justice system for years.

For three generations, a Murdaugh held the powerful position as solicitor in the 14th Judicial Circuit solicitors office.

Buster's dad Alex carried on the legal tradition working for the local prosecutor's office and at his law firm PMPED.

But the family empire came crashing down following the brutal murders of Maggie and Paul.

The slayings also shone a light on other scandals connected to the powerful family.

In 2018 - four years before the murders - the family housekeeper Gloria Satterfield died in a sudden 'trip and fall' at the Moselle estate. Alex then stole $4m from her sons in a wrongful death lawsuit settlement.

Stephen Smith (pictured) was found dead in a road in Hampton County in 2015. Rumors swirled through the Lowcountry that Buster was involved

The Murdaugh family estate where Maggie and Paul were murdered in the summer of 2017

That same year, Paul was charged with causing a boat crash in which his friend Mallory Beach was killed.

And Buster's name was also linked to the death of 19-year-old Stephen Smith.

In July 2015, Smith was found dead from blunt force trauma to the head on a road in Hampton County.

His death was ruled a hit-and-run at the time but Smith's mom Sandy has never accepted this conclusion.

There was no debris or skid marks pointing to a collision and she has long suspected Smith was killed as a hate crime because he was gay.

In a bombshell 2016 letter to the FBI, Sandy begged the bureau to look into Buster as a suspect in his murder.

The two young men had been classmates at school and rumors had long swirled through the Lowcountry that they had been in a relationship.

Just two weeks after Maggie and Paul's murders, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division opened a new investigation into Smith's death.

Buster Murdaugh and Brooklynn White inside the courtroom during Alex Murdaugh's murder trial

Brooklynn joined the Murdaugh family as they put on a united front at Alex's murder trial. In his only interview, Buster maintained he believes his father is innocent

His death was later ruled a homicide.

Buster has never been charged in connection to the case.

He finally broke his silence over the allegations in an interview for a FOX Nation documentary in the fall of 2023, blasting the rumors and denying any involvement in his murder.

He also denied ever having 'anything to do with [Smith] on a physical level in any regard.'

The interview also marked his first and only comments to date - other than on the witness stand - about his mom and brother's murders at his dad's hands.

Buster insisted - many months on from Alex's conviction - that he still believed his dad was innocent.

It is unclear if the father and son are still in contact today - or if Murdaugh, who owes millions of dollars to his financial crime victims, picked out a gift for the new bride and groom.
Just days after Reforms catastrophic defeat of Labour in its heartlands such as Durham and Doncaster, the Prime Minister has made his latest fatal error.

His new trade deal with India has sold out British workers to the highest degree. He has undercut, sidelined and betrayed them, and chosen to prioritise Indian arrivals instead.

The devil is in the detail.

Indians who are transferred to work in Britain by their employers will receive an exemption to National Insurance for at least three years.

This is extraordinary. As ordinary Britons face tax rises and UK employers are being asked to fork out more in National Insurance contributions, Indian workers are getting a free pass.

And it gets worse. There is no cap. No limit.

Around half a million Indians have arrived in the UK in the past two years  and this deal will throw the doors open even wider, giving new arrivals a massive financial advantage over the people who have built and supported this country all their lives.

In Starmers Britain, people who have grown up here, worked hard, paid their taxes and propped up the economy are effectively being asked to pay to put themselves out of work. It is nothing short of a betrayal of working people in this country.

Just days after Reforms catastrophic defeat of Labour in its heartlands such as Durham and Doncaster, the Prime Minister has made his latest fatal error, says Nigel Farage

Sir Keir Starmer's new trade deal with India has sold out British workers to the highest degree and India's Prime minister Narendra Modi (right) cant believe his luck

After this deal, it will become 20 per cent cheaper to employ an Indian worker over a British one.

Even the Conservatives with their sell-out of British farmers in order to secure trade deals with Australia and New Zealand could not bring themselves to make a pact like this.

Prime minister Narendra Modi cant believe his luck. He stalled the previous Conservative government, knowing that a soft-touch Labour administration was on the horizon, and gambled that it would capitulate  and so it did.

And to top this all off, there is no impact assessment or analysis of costs. We have no idea how many more Indians will enter the UK as a result of this deal.

Either the Government has failed to do the bare minimum due diligence, or, more likely, ministers have seen the figures and knew the uproar would be immense.

Meanwhile, senior former Home Office officials are reportedly in despair.

And they should be. This isnt just bad policy  its a clear signal that British workers are not a priority for Keir Starmer.

Whether its this disastrous deal, overseeing the decimation of steel-making in Wales, or hiking up taxes on small businesses, this government frankly doesnt give a damn.

Starmers capitulation may please overseas leaders and big business  but tax cuts for foreign workers and tax rises for everyone else will be the final straw for many.

Reform UK is now clearly the party of British workers.
Marjorie Taylor Greene sees a schism in the Republican party, and it's not between her and President Donald Trump, she told the Daily Mail in a sit-down interview, it's among 'neocons' and conservatives.

The firebrand warned that congressional Republicans remain 'addicted to foreign wars' - despite the president running on a mandate to end America's involvement in conflicts overseas and bring peace to the world.

Greene sent shockwaves through Capitol Hill last week when she wrote on X: 'I represent the base and when I'm frustrated and upset over the direction of things, you better be clear, the base is not happy.'

The Georgia congresswoman clarified her long post was not about the president but 'typical Republican leadership,' which, along with 'classic neocons,' she accused of co-opting the MAGA movement away from Trump.

Neocons are generally Republicans who advocate for U.S. intervention in global affairs, like the wars in Ukraine, Afghanistan, Iraq and more.

'I'm not naming and names in particular, but everyone pretty much knows it's the same old, same old,' Greene said of the forces influencing the GOP. '[The] Classic neocon establishment in Washington. It's just an existence. It's a conglomerate.'

An obvious example of this, she argued, is the Senate's discontent with Ed Martin, Trump's nominee for U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia.

The Trump nominee is currently opposed by Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., and because of that Martin's bid may not pass. Greene, therefore, blames Tillis, among others, for obstructing Trump's agenda.

'We have problems in Congress,' she told the Daily Mail. '[Trump's] agenda is not being passed in Congress.'

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., told Daily Mail in a sit down interview that she feels certain Republicans are not working to achieve her friend President Trump's agenda in Congress

Greene also aired concerns with 'neocons' who are not interested in going all out for the MAGA agenda. She ominously warned that some, who she refused to name, have been advocating to Trump that the U.S. get embroiled in a conflict with Iran

Greene named Sens. Collins and Tillis as apart of the 'neocon' class working against Trump

'Look at the Senate. We've got, what is it? Four or five senators that are saying 'No Ed Martin,'' Greene shared. 'Susan Collins is one of them, and she's the Chair of Appropriations. Like these are powerful people that are refusing to pass the president's agenda.'

Americans 'didn't vote for Susan Collins or Tom Tillis' to be president, she said.

'So why would Senate Republicans hold that up?' Greene asked. 'It's the disconnect between typical Republican leadership and control and Washington, D.C., and all the muck that comes with it.'

With some of the neocons identified, the Georgian turned on some of her House colleagues, too.

Greene chairs the House's DOGE subcommittee and said skeptical that many Republicans will have the stomach to cut the waste, fraud and abuse uncovered by the group led by Trump appointee Elon Musk.

'His executive orders, DOGE cuts, rescissions, those are the easiest things,' the Republican said, noting how DOGE's work identifying wasteful programs is pointless work unless Congress passes legislation to codify the reforms.

Greene also pointed to the mountain of executive actions, 143 at this point, which she believes should be codified into law.

Driving the point home, the lawmaker brought up her effort to enshrine the name change of Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America.

Trump answers questions from press with a poster of the Gulf of America behind him

Trump shows off a new Gulf of America hat at the White House

President Donald Trump, from right, speaks to reporters accompanied by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Burgum's wife Kathryn Burgum, aboard Air Force One where Trump signed a proclamation declaring February 9 Gulf of America Day

The project is so dear to the president's heart that a poster of the name change has hung in the Oval Office and he had hats made with the new phrase.

'He literally keeps the map next to his desk,' Greene told the Daily Mail.

Though with some Republicans reportedly upset over the measure, Greene dared any GOP lawmaker to jump out of line and 'stand with Mexico.'

Overall, the congresswoman also vehemently warned against those advocating for foreign wars and status-quo Washington procedure, a prevailing wind forcing the president's White House wayward.

'The Republican establishment wants to do this like a speed bump,' Greene warned while leaning forward in her seat. 'They know that President Trump can't run again.'

'They would love to continue just steaming ahead in their same path, and try to get over him like a speed bump and keep going,' the Georgia congresswoman continued.

'And my voice is important to not allow that to happen,' she added.

The Georgian has been a MAGA ally for a decade and wrote for conservative online outlets before becoming a member of Congress three days before January 6, 2021.

Greene has been outspoken about her discontent with her own party

Greene boasts one of the largest social media followings for any member of Congress on X, with a combined 6.3 million, 1 million on Instagram and over 500,000 on Facebook.

When Daily Mail asked Greene why she thinks the 'base' is displeased, she immediately pointed to one thing, the same reason highlighted in her post from the week prior: war.

'Washington, DC, has an addiction to foreign wars,' Greene told the Daily Mail. 'President Trump is on record for decades being against foreign wars, saying that we need world peace.'

Then she congratulated the president on striking a peace deal with the Houthis in Yemen, which have been bombing ships in the Red Sea, a critical shipping route.

'This is exactly one of the reasons why I've always supported the President is because he has worked for peace and stopping foreign wars,' the lawmaker said.

'However, we had been seeing people here in Washington pushing him towards one a war with Iran, which we do not want. American people don't want that. No one's no one's interested in a war Iran,' Greene stated.

She then dove into the Ukraine war, the U.S.'s war in Afghanistan and other conflicts that the country lost so much in, which she blamed on 'neocons.'

'That's why I said, if you're losing me and I'm angry at you and I'm frustrated ... You're losing the base.'

'And you can read all the comments, I'm right,' Greene claimed, adding the 'comments back me up.'
Sotheby's Hong Kong has come under fire from India's government as the auction house prepares to host a sale of ancient jewels linked to Buddha this week.

The auction, which is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, is said to offer up a collection of 'gem relics' for sale in Hong Kong.

However, the Indian Ministry of Culture claims the auction violates Indian laws, international norms and United Nations conventions.

The organization has served a legal order demanding the halt of the sale.

Sotheby's listed the gems, which were discovered in an urn with Shakya clan's share of the bones of Shakyamuni Buddha, as 'unparalleled religious, archeological and historical importance.'

The gem relics are sacred to many Buddhists, who believe they are the corporeal remains of the Buddha, CNN reported.

A majority of the gems found were sent to the Indian Museum in Kolkata at the time of their discovery, but 'duplicates' were granted to William Claxton Peppe, a British colonial engineer who unearthed the relics.

Now, descendants of Peppe are auctioning off the sacred gems, to the fury of India's government and many Buddhists.

The country's Ministry of Culture said on Monday that it was taking 'swift and comprehensive' measures to 'immediately' halt the sale of the gems and 'highlight the illegality of the auction and ensure compliance with international laws.'

An auction hosted by Sotheby's Hong Kong has been said to violate Indian laws, international norms and United Nations conventions, according to the Indian Ministry of Culture who have served a legal order demanding the halt of the sale

The auction, which is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, is said to offer up a collection of 'gem relics' for sale in Hong Kong

'We call upon Sotheby's Hong Kong to immediately withdraw the relics from the auction and cooperate with Indian authorities to return these sacred artifacts to their rightful place,' the ministry said in paperwork posted to Instagram.

The ministry said in the documents that the auction involves 'sacred Buddhist relics,' referred to as the duplicate jewels, and that it violates Indian and international laws as well as the United Nations conventions.

Further, the documents posted detail that per Buddhist religion, 'these sacred grave goods are inseparable from the sacred relics and cannot be commodified.'

The legal action taken against Sotheby's Hong Kong and Chris Peppe, the great-grandson of William Claxton Peppe, demands the immediate cancellation of the auction, repatriation of the relics to the Government of India, a public apology from Sotheby's and Peppe and full disclosure of any further relics in their possession.

Chris Peppe told the BBC that the family had looked into donating the relics, but that all options presented problems.

He added that the auction seemed to be the 'fairest and most transparent way to transfer these relics to Buddhists,' and further told the outlet that in all the monasteries he had visited 'no Buddhists regard [the gems] are corporeal relics.'

'A few Buddhist academics at western universities have recently offered a convoluted, fact-defying logical whereby they may be regarded as such. It's an academic construct that is not shared by Buddhists in general who are familiar with the details of the find,' he added.

The relics were excavated in 1898 from Piprahwa Stupa by William Claxton Peppe and are 'part of India's and the global Buddhist community's spiritual and cultural heritage,' the ministry said.

The ministry said in the documents that the auction involves 'sacred Buddhist relics,' referred to as the duplicate jewels, and that it violates Indian and international laws as well as the United Nations conventions

The legal action taken against Sotheby's Hong Kong and Chris Peppe, the great-grandson of William Claxton Peppe, demands the immediate cancellation of the auction

Sotheby's responded to the legal notice regarding the motion the stop the auction with 'the assurance that full attention is being given to this matter,' the ministry's post said.

Julian King, Sotheby's international specialist and head of sale, further told the BBC: 'As is the case with any important items and collectibles that are offered for sale at Sotheby's, we conducted requisite due diligence, including in relation to authenticity and provenance, legality and other considerations in line with our policies and industry standards for artworks and treasures.'

India's Ministry of Culture nor Sotheby's immediately responded to DailyMail.com's request for comment.

'The relics are devotional objects - property of India where the stupa is located, as well as the Buddha and the Sakya clan - not commodities for auction,' the legal notice stated. 'Their sale violates core Buddhist ethics and disrupts sacred tradition.'
Britain's most notorious prisoner will have his latest parole hearing held in private, a judicial Parole Board member has decided.

The decision comes after Charles Bronson - one of the UK's longest-serving prisoners  took part in one of the country's first public parole hearings in 2023.

Now the infamous criminal is set to go before the parole board for the ninth time and final time and there is a prospect that he may be released.

On a document published on Tuesday, judicial Parole Board member Jeremy Roberts KC, on behalf of the board chair, said he had not granted the application for the 72-year-old's parole hearing to be made public.

Once one of Britain's most violent offenders, Bronson has spent most of the past 48 years behind bars  apart from two brief periods during which he reoffended  for a string of thefts, firearms and violent offences, including 11 hostage-taking incidents in nine different sieges.

Victims included prison governors, doctors, staff and, on one occasion, his own solicitor.

Bronson was handed a discretionary life sentence with a minimum term of four years in 2000 for taking a prison teacher at HMP Hull hostage for 44 hours. Since then, the Parole Board has repeatedly refused to direct his release.

This will be Charles Bronson's ninth attempt at applying for parole, having been unsuccessful on all previous eight occasions

Court artist sketch of Charles Bronson (Elizabeth Cook/PA)

Bronson is currently being detained at HMP Woodhill in Milton Keynes

The 2023 parole review was his eighth.

Bronson, whose real name is Michael Peterson, was first locked up for armed robbery in 1974, aged 22, and since then has developed a reputation for being Britain's most violent prisoner.

He was given seven years for the robbery but bad behaviour inside gave him a reputation as a dangerous inmate, and he wasn't released until 1987.

Bronson then spent just 69 days as a free man before being rearrested and jailed again after robbing a jewellery shop.

He was sentenced to another seven years and, bar another brief spell of freedom in 1992, has been in prison since.

During his time inside he has taken 11 hostages in nine prison sieges and has attacked at least 20 prison officers and caused 500,000 in damage in rooftop protests.

Eventually, in 1999, he received a life sentence for kidnapping a prison art teacher. His last conviction for a violent offence was in 2014 when he was tried for assault.

Bronson - who changed his surname to Salvador in 2014 - was the first prisoner to formally ask for a public hearing after rules changed in 2022 in a bid to remove the secrecy around the parole process.

Bronson - who changed his surname to Salvador in 2014 - was the first prisoner to formally ask for a public hearing after rules changed in 2022

On that occasion, the parole board noted evidence of 'improved self-control and better emotional management', but was unable to be satisfied that 'he had the skills to manage his risk of future violence'.

He is currently imprisoned in Milton Keynes at HMP Woodhill.

The appeal was only the second in English legal history to be held in public.

Bronson suffers from PTSD because of his 'brutal' treatment in prison, a previous hearing was told.

The infamous criminal is now set to go before the parole board for the ninth time and final time and there is a prospect that he may be released.

In the document published on Tuesday, Mr Roberts said the application for a public hearing was made on February 9 by the prisoner's solicitor.

Representations on Bronson's behalf said he 'feels that he is directly responsible for the change in law and Parole Board rules and so he should be allowed to participate in a public hearing'.

He has a 'legitimate expectation that his subsequent parole hearings will be held in public following his lengthy proceedings to instigate the change in the rules'.

Bronson (pictured), 72, whose real name is Michael Peterson, was first locked up for armed robbery in 1974

Mr Roberts said the fact that Bronson is responsible for the change in the law 'does not give him any legitimate expectation that his subsequent hearings will be held in public'.

Bronson's solicitor added that the prisoner 'is not vulnerable and, given his wish for a public hearing', it could cause him 'undue emotional stress' if the hearing was not held in public.

They added: 'He believes he will achieve best evidence and this will not be impacted by the hearing being in public.'

But Mr Roberts said: 'The prisoner is obviously highly intelligent (albeit liable to some eccentric beliefs and attitudes) and I do not think it likely that he would suffer undue emotional stress if this hearing is held privately.

'I am sure that he will be able to 'give best evidence' whether the hearing is held in public or in private.'

Bronson's solicitor also said the Parole Board's work is often not well understood by the public and 'there is a public interest in increasing understanding'.

The solicitor added that Bronson 'believes that his risk has significantly reduced' and that a 'discussion about risk and risk reduction in a public hearing would aid public confidence'.

Mr Roberts agreed that 'there is a public interest in increasing the public's understanding of the parole process and that transparency, where possible, is important for public confidence in the system'.

Bronson seen at his 2023 parole hearing in a sketch by the artist Elizabeth Cook

He also said the Parole Board has over the last few years made 'great efforts' to improve the transparency of its proceedings.

Mr Roberts said the introduction of public hearings is another step taken.

But he added: 'However, public hearings and the arrangements for them are expensive and time-consuming, and unless and until the board is provided with the necessary funds to carry them out in more cases it must be selective in the holding of a public hearing only where it is likely to increase public understanding of the process or will benefit the public or victims in some other way.'

The Secretary of State's representations were provided on her behalf by a senior official in the Ministry of Justice, which said Bronson's 'readiness to resort to violence continues to be evident, and the Secretary of State is concerned that a public hearing would prompt a display of violence in a way that a private hearing might not'.

Mr Roberts said there has been a 'marked improvement in recent years in the prisoner's attitudes to (and relationships with) prison staff'.

The panel chair's observations were included in the document, in which they said they were concerned there may be 'a real possibility that the prisoner's application for a public hearing might be driven by a desire on his part to maintain notoriety or to achieve greater notoriety, or to air grievances publicly, rather than to increase public understanding of the parole process'.

But Mr Roberts said he is 'prepared to believe that his current intentions are entirely genuine even if (as is likely) there is an element of attention-seeking in his application'.

Mr Roberts said he does not believe holding the hearing in public would be likely to increase public awareness of the parole system, and people who observed Bronson's previous hearing have been able to see how the system operated in that case.

He added: 'I believe that the notoriety which the prisoner has already achieved and which would no doubt be increased by holding this hearing in public might actually mitigate against better public understanding of the parole process. It might distract from the real issues in the case.'

Mr Roberts decided that the points against a public hearing 'substantially outweigh' those in favour.
President Donald Trump is expanding his global property empire to Dubai as he continues to strengthen ties in the Middle East with a massive cryptocurrency agreement.

Trump's son Eric unveiled the Trump International Hotel & Tower, Dubai on X last week, boasting the world's highest pool atop a swanky 80-story building.

The luxury new accommodation is slated to be completed by the end of 2031, and will offer a combination of tourist hotel rooms and resident apartments.

According to The Independent, prices for a two-bedroom apartment will start at $1million, and include a 10 year 'golden visa.'

It is unclear what the 'golden visa' will afford cardholders, but back in February Trump said he would like to sell 'gold card' visas for $5million, offering wealthy buyers residency in the United States.

The announcement of Trump's first high rise building in the region comes as he is slated to visit Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar later this month.

And a firm linked to the ruling family of the UAE announced they had chosen a stablecoin launched by Trump's sons Eric and Don Jr., USD1, to complete a $2billion crypto exchange deal with Binance.

The announcement has raised concerns about whether such a deal would amount to a conflict of interest for the President, but his office has repeatedly insisted that the Trump businesses are run by his children, eliminating the risk.

President Donald Trump is expanding his global property empire to Dubai as he continues to strengthen ties in the Middle East with a cryptocurrency agreement

Trump's son Eric unveiled the Trump International Hotel & Tower, Dubai on X last week, boasting the world's highest pool atop a swanky 80-story building

The announcement of Trump's first high rise building in the region comes as he is slated to visit Saudi Arabia , the United Arab Emirates and Qatar later this month

The deal was announced at the Token2049 crypto conference in Dubai by Zach Witkoff, son of Trump's Middle East envoy and close friend, Steve Witkoff.

Zach is the co-founder of World Liberty Financial, a business owned by a Trump family entity. Eric Trump also has a prominent role in the business.

Trump has been transparent about his desire to make America the 'crypto capital of the planet.'

He promised to be the 'crypto president,' who will popularize its mainstream use in America, despite once being a crypto skeptic himself who described bitcoin as a 'scam.'

He has said he backs crypto because it can improve the banking system and increase the dominance of the US dollar.

At the same time the Trump family, long known for skyscrapers and country clubs, rapidly gained hundreds of millions of dollars through their crypto investments.

Both the new skyscraper and the crypto deal mark the latest sign of strengthening ties between the United States and the UAE.

Renderings of the new skyscraper show a stunning oasis with sweeping views over Dubai, including the famed Burj Khalifa.

The tower will boast a private members club called The Trump with even further exclusive benefits.

Renderings of the new skyscraper show a stunning oasis with sweeping views over Dubai, including the famed Burj Khalifa

Eric Trump said: 'Trump International Hotel & Tower, Dubai is a project that reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence, luxury and innovation'

The five star location will offer one, two and three bedroom apartments, along with duplex penthouses with four bedrooms

Eric Trump said: 'Trump International Hotel & Tower, Dubai is a project that reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence, luxury and innovation.'

'Dubai is a global destination that shares our vision for iconic development, and we're proud to expand the Trump brand in one of the most dynamic cities on earth.'

The five star location will offer one, two and three bedroom apartments, along with duplex penthouses with four bedrooms.

Trump already has luxury hotels across the United States, Scotland and Ireland.

He announced in 2024 plans to build another in Vietnam.
Teachers at a ritzy New York City private school were outraged after seniors pulled a class prank that featured a fake 'border patrol checkpoint.'

Students at the all-boys Collegiate School - which costs a whopping $65,900 per year - put on the controversial display Thursday as part of the long-standing senior prank tradition, Gothamist reported.

The school claims to be the oldest in the country with a founding date of 1628 and boosts famous alumni John F. Kennedy Jr., his nephew Jack Schlossberg, David Duchovny, rapper Lil Mabu and many socialites such as Cornelius Vanderbilt II.

The class of 2025 set up a cardboard booth surrounded by caution tape where they asked to see arriving classmates' 'papers.'

An inflatable eagle riding a motorcycle was set up in the lobby, American and Texas flags were hung at the entrance, and a live mariachi band performed outside.

Teachers sent a complaint to school leadership about the prank claiming the event reeked of 'racism and harassment of people of color,' according to the news outlet.

Head of school Bodie Brizendine sent a letter to the community Friday stating the prank had been approved with a Fourth of July theme, but 'it unfortunately strayed from that plan.'

'We have an excellent senior class and yesterday's events do not reflect who we are as a school,' she said. 'We regret that this "prank" took the turn that it did. Every member of our community is valued and important to us.'

Students at the elite Collegiate School (pictured) set up a 'border patrol checkpoint' for their senior prank

The teacher complaint called for the students to be held accountable for their actions. Brizendine said she is investigating the matter.

Brizendine took over last year when her predecessor was forced to resign after branding an anti-Semitism taskforce a 'power play by Jewish families.'

The board of trustees at the private school launched a probe after more than 100 Jewish parents said its response to the October 7 Hamas attack failed to 'meet the moment.'

Head of school David Lourie allegedly described the move as 'nothing more than a 'power play by Jewish families and New York City Rabbis' to have him ousted.

Task force head Anna Carello found that one English teacher had accused Israel of genocide in front to 6th and 7th graders shortly after the terrorist attacks, while two others had harangued a Holocaust survivor invited to speak at the school.

'I feel like Collegiate has become a training camp for Columbia,' one parent at the $63,400 a year K-12 school told the New York Post.

The allegations came to light after Carello sued Lourie for gender discrimination claiming he undermined and sidelined her investigation as 'punishment' for her working with Jewish families.

Her report found that some staff blamed 'wealthy and influential' Jewish parents for tensions at the all-boys school which had 'skirted close to one of the oldest and most pervasive anti-Semitic tropes.'

Head of school Bodie Brizendine (pictured) sent a letter to the community stating the prank had been approved with a Fourth of July theme, but 'it unfortunately strayed from that plan'

In 2020, the school ditched its 'offensive' mascot, thought to be a caricature of Peter Stuyvesant, and replaced with a silhouette

It revealed that Middle School English teacher Dwayne Alexis had been 'relieved of his teaching duties after presenting controversial lessons on the Middle East to his 7th-grade civics class and 6th-grade world history class', with some parents claiming he had accused Israel of genocide.

It also revealed that two upper-school teachers had been 'reprimanded' after asking 'pressing questions' at a school Holocaust Assembly.

'There was a Holocaust survivor invited to speak at the school and a teacher took it upon herself to press him on a series of questions, one of which was could 'the swastika be a symbol of peace?' one parent claimed.

'People have lost confidence, there is no morality clarity, there is a pervasive anger and it is all driven by an erosion of trust,' another added.

Carello claimed her investigation was hampered by having to teach the classes of Alexis after he was suspended.

And concerned parents were not reassured when her report came in at nine pages, compared to the 400 pages of the school's 2020 response to 'institutional and other racism that pervades so much of our society'.

Five years ago an internal task force recommended its mascot, motto and seal be changed because they could be considered offensive.

The school ditched its 'offensive' mascot, thought to be a caricature of Peter Stuyvesant, and replaced with a silhouette
Marco Rubio has warned foreign countries to preserve 'free expression' and stop censoring U.S. companies.

The Secretary of State's appeal comes as the Australian government is embroiled in a legal battle with Elon Musk's X social media platform and an advocate who opposes transgender treatments being performed on minors.

The Australian government has sought to censor the online activity of an American company and one of its users.

The government has placed a geo-based ban Australians viewing an X post because the user known as 'Billboard Chris' uses the biological pronouns of a transgender individual and Australian citizen.

'I think what this does is put some pressure on the Australian government, because nobody likes to have the United States Government cracking down on them,' Chris Elston told the Daily Mail when asked about the State Department taking up the fight.

Last week the State Department's Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, & Labor (DRL) called out Australia, the European Union, and Turkey for their recent actions in suppressing online activity related to political speech, gender ideology and peaceful protests.

Lawyers for X and Elston, who is Canadian, legally challenged the takedown order by the Australian government's eSafety Commission and appeared last month for a five-day hearing at an administrative review tribunal in Melbourne.

The panel was originally created to take down nude images of minors, the powerful commission now seeks to use police powers to control what people in Australia publish and see online.

An activist known as Billboard Chris (right) who advocates against transgender treatment for minors is embroiled in an Australian push to censor his content on the American social media company X

Last year, Chris Elston reposted a Daily Mail article that brought to light some questionable online activity of an Australian transgender member of a World Health Organization task force

The post was geo-blocked from being viewed in Australia and X was sent a take down order by the country's eSafety Commission, which the platform is now fighting in Australian court

If an Australian tries to view the post Elston made over a year ago, they will instead receive the message: 'This post from @BillboardChris has been withheld in Australia in response to a legal demand.'

The U.S. has warned way other countries treat American companies could affect trade relationships  with Trump threatening to implemented tariff policies against countries who don't allow free speech.

'They've made freedom of speech a critical component of their entire campaign and how they manage when they want other countries to do the same, it's a big issue for the Trump administration,' Elston told the Daily Mail.

'So they're not going to be happy that other countries are doing petty censorship about people on the other side of the world.'

The DRL Bureau wrote in a statement on its X account on May 1: 'The Department of State is deeply concerned about efforts by governments to coerce American tech companies into targeting individuals for censorship.'

'Freedom of expression must be protected  online and offline,' the statement added. 'Examples of this conduct are troublingly numerous.'

'EU Commissioner Thierry Breton threatened X for hosting political speech; Turkiye fined Meta for refusing to restrict content about protests; and Australia required X to remove a post criticizing an individual for promoting gender ideology,' according to the statement.

'Even when content may be objectionable, censorship undermines democracy, suppresses political opponents, and degrades public safety. The United States opposes efforts to undermine freedom of expression.'

'As [Secretary Marco Rubio] said, our diplomacy will continue to place an emphasis on promoting fundamental freedoms,' it concluded.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio is calling on foreign nations to cease any censorship and suppression of free speech and expression when it comes to U.S. companies

The State Department's Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, & Labor (DRL) on Mday 1, 2025 called out Australia, the European Union and Turkey for their recent actions suppressing online activity related to political speech, gender ideology and peaceful protests of U.S. companies

The Australian saga started last year when Elston reposted a Daily Mail article about an Australian transgender member of the United Nations trans health panel under the World Health Organization.

This included posting images of Teddy Cook practicing public nudity and attending bondage parties and trans orgies.

Cook filed a complaint with Australia's eSafety Commission against news outlets that published the images.

Elston reposted the article with the caption: 'This woman (yes, she's female) is part of a panel of 20 'experts' hired by the @WHO to draft their policy on caring for 'trans people.'

'People who belong in psychiatric wards are writing the guidelines for people who belong in psychiatric wards,' he added in the X post from February 2024.

Australia took issue with the fact that he reposted an article that 'doxxed' where one of its citizens worked as well as the images, and the fact that the post 'misgendered' the transgender WHO panel member.

Elston detailed how lawyers with X informed him of Australia's take down notice.

Elston, a Canadian citizen, has gone viral for holding signs in public spaces with messages slamming gender ideology and the implementation of transgender treatments on minors. He told Daily Mail he was fined in Australia for the same actions he takes in other parts of the world

The Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) came forward to represent Elston in his defense in Australia.

'Everyone has the right to speak the truth online - especially when discussing significant societal debates,' ADF International legal counsel Robert Clarke told the Daily Mail.

'Australian authorities have significantly overreached by attempting to silence a Canadian campaigner on a U.S. social media platform,' he added.

'We're delighted to stand by Chris as he fights his legal battle against censorship, and welcome the State Department's affirmation that Australia, like all governments, must uphold free speech.'

The Australian eSafety Commissioner defended the decision to censor Elston in a tribunal last month by claiming his use of biological pronounce was 'intended to have an effect of causing serious harm'

In his testimony before the tribunal, Elston said: 'It's damaging to teach children they are born in the wrong bodychildren are beautiful just as they are. No drugs or scalpels needed.'
Daniel Morcombe's twin brother has recalled the day the 13-year-old was abducted and murdered while waiting for a bus to go and buy his family Christmas presents.

Brad, 35, has fondly remembered Daniel as his 'best mate' more than two decades after the schoolboy disappeared from a bus stop on Sunday, December 7, 2003.

'On that hot Sunday afternoon, trouble found Daniel,' he told a new documentary about his brother's disappearance, Don't Waste It: The Daniel Morcombe Story.

'He was in the wrong place at the wrong time. We never saw him again.'

Daniel's remains were finally discovered eight years later at the Glass House Mountains in the Gold Coast hinterland in 2011.

Daniel's killer, Brett Peter Cowan, was arrested the same year and is serving a life sentence at a Brisbane correctional centre.

'When the truth finally came it was worse than we ever imagined,' Brad said.

'After eight years, Daniel wasn't coming home.'

Bradley Morcombe recalled the day his brother, Daniel, was abducted and murdered in 2003 (pictured left to right, Daniel, Bradley and eldest brother Dean)

Daniel (pictured) was abducted from a Sunshine Coast bus stop on his way to the shops

Daniel's parents (pictured) celebrated the 20th anniversary of a foundation in his honour

Daniel's father, Bruce, described the arrest as 'an incredible shock and surprise, a moment not of joy - a moment you think, "Wow Daniel's not coming home".'

Brad cherishes the happy childhood memories he shared with his twin.

'He was only 13 years old when he was abducted, just a few days before our birthday,' he said.

'He was my best mate. He loved horses and we both loved motorbikes.

'We grew up doing everything together - school, motorbikes, horses. Basically what he did, I did, and vice versa.

'To outsiders he would seem like he was quiet but to us he was very boisterous, a little joker, a little mate. Just a nice kid.'

Brad said waiting to get answers about his brother's disappearance before he was found was 'torture'.

'Every phone call, every knock on the door brought a flicker of hope that quickly faded,' he said.

Bruce and Denise Morcombe (pictured) have spent the last 20 years advocating for child safety and sharing free educational resources

Brad Morcombe has remembered his brother as his 'boisterous best mate'

The documentary was shared on Tuesday, May 6, to mark the 20th anniversary of the Daniel Morcombe Foundation.

Originally established by Daniel's parents, Bruce and Denise Morcombe, as a way to help find their son, the foundation has become one of the largest child safety operations in Australia.

Its symbol, a red t-shirt, has become a well-recognised symbol for child safety and pays tribute to the shirt Daniel wore on the day of his abduction.

Bruce explained the evolution of the foundation's mission was a way for him and his wife to cope with their grief and help other victims.

'We weren't sitting there in our sorrow,' he said.

'I can't change what's happened to Daniel but I can influence and change the future.

'I want everyone to stand tall and accept the challenge Today is the day I tell my story. You are incredibly important in helping others. Don't waste your pain, you will help somebody else.'

Daniel's killer Brett Peter Cowan is serving a life sentence for the 13-year-old's murder

The Daniel Morcombe Foundation provides child safety education, prevention, and community engagement across Australia with Bruce and Denise often conducting sessions themselves.

Over the years, the organisation has distributed more than two-million child safety resources and raised more than $20million to ensure the continuation of its free programs.

With more plans for books and resources in the pipeline, the Morcombe family are determined to continue their advocacy for many years to come.

Don't Waste It: The Daniel Morcombe Story is available to watch on the Daniel Morcombe Foundation's YouTube page.
Ousted Greens MP Max Chandler-Mather has claimed he was 'personally abused' by Anthony Albanese during his time in Parliament.

The high-profile politician lost his Brisbane-based seat of Griffith after a 5.8 percent swing to Labor candidate Renee Coffey in Saturday's federal election.

In his first interview since losing his seat, Mr Chandler-Mather said he had no regrets about his one-term stint but was relieved the abuse he received was now at an end.

Mr Chandler-Mather explained he was often 'screamed and yelled at' by Labor MPs to the point he felt like vomiting.

'Every time I stood up, I got screamed and yelled at,' he told Triple J Hack.

'In terms of a workplace, it was bloody awful and frankly, a lot of the times miserable.

'Often it was really exhausting. There was this one time where half of the Labor frontbench was basically screaming at me, calling me a joke and an idiot, one minister made a comment about my mum.

'I was just getting up there, saying that there should be caps on rent increases. I remember walking back into my office and almost throwing up out of stress.'

Ousted Greens MP Max Chandler-Mather revealed the pressure of working in parliament, claiming he was often 'yelled and screamed' while fighting for renters and low-income earners

Mr Chandler-Mather said parliament was an 'odd place' as he often had Prime Minister Anthony Albanese 'personally abuse' him in the House.

'The Prime Minister spent a lot of time in my electorate attacking me, the property industry, the mining industry, all coming after us,' he said.

'We would get up (in the House) and say "All we want is for the government to do something for the one-third of the country that rents" and I had the Prime Minister come up to me in the Chamber and call me a "joke" and personally abuse me.

'Can you imagine you're in a workplace and you have people in that workplace come up and just yell and scream at you while you're trying to give a speech. It's odd.'

Mr Chandler-Mather considered the attacks as a point of pride, as they demonstrated that his advocacy for low income earners and those who could not afford to own a home had resonated.

In his three-year tenure, Mr Chandler-Mather said he was grateful for giving renters a voice on a national stage but ultimately felt as though he had let the people down.

The 33-year-old blamed the loss in Griffith on the massive collapse for the Liberal Party vote.

When he was elected in 2022 he topped the primary vote, the Liberal-National candidate was second and Labor third, so Labor's preferences saw him elected comfortably.

The 33-year-old said he was confident Greens Leader Adam Bandt would win Melbourne (pictured, Mr Bandt and Mr Chandler-Mather in Parliament)

This time, his primary vote declined by three per cent and he ran second in the primary vote to Labor and the Liberal candidate was third so the Liberal preferences - which put Labor ahead of Green - saw Labor win easily.

The Greens look likely to lose all four of their House seats won in 2022 despite their overall share of the national vote being down only half a percentage point to 11.8 per cent.

Party leader Adam Bandt seems set to lose his seat of Melbourne to Labor, but Mr Chandler-Mather still praised his performance.

'This election is the second best election result in Greens history, topped only by the time Adam led the party in 2022,' he said.

'Adam has helped transform the party. I think he did a brilliant job leading the party this election.'

Mr Chandler-Mather said he was excited for some much-needed time off to spend with his partner Jo and their 18-month-old son Felix and was unsure whether he would remain in politics.

'The last three years I've barely had a day off. I'm looking forward to a bit of a rest,' he said.

'I'm definitely not going away in terms of fighting for a better world. You don't have to be an MP to do that.'

The former Greens housing spokesperson said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had called him a joke and 'personally abuse' him in Chambers after he would propose policy for renters

Last year, he was confronted about why he does not own a home despite earning more than $233,000 a year as a politician.

Mr Chandler-Mather, a lifelong renter, revealed how he had been giving up a proportion of his income to charity, and that he was priced out of a home in his electorate.

'Honest answer, small family, we're on a single income and I give up about $50,000 of my salary to run all the free meal programs in the electorate,' he said.

'Using that money we serve about 50,000 free meals, including our free weekly breakfast in state schools.

'My view is when I got elected, I was elected by a lot of people who are low-income renters and it wasn't right for me not to give up a big portion of my salary to people who are low income.

'Because of giving up that money and being on a single income, and in an inner-city electorate with very, very high median house prices, it is difficult to buy a house there.'
A Disneyland worker who died in a horror crash involving three cars and a lorry has been remembered by her heartbroken family  five years on from the tragedy.

Courtney Davies, 24, was killed in December 2020 when her red MG was struck with such force it was thrown off the A15 in Lincolnshire during a multi-vehicle pile-up.

The crash, involving a red Mercedes HGV, a black Renault Clio and an orange BMW, happened just north of Caenby Corner at around 5.40pm.

Emergency services rushed to the scene but tragically, nothing could be done to save her.

Now, five years later, her family have opened up about the devastating night that changed their lives forever  and the chaos and heartbreak of finding out about her death themselves before officers could formally confirm it.

Her mother Ginny said: 'When it happened, it wasn't really the classic knock on the door out of nowhere. We knew that something had happened.

'We were trying to get in touch with Courtney and she would always either text or call us to let us know she was okay. And that particular night we couldn't get a hold of her.'

Disneyland worker Courtney Davies (pictured) was killed in a pile up in Lincolnshire in 2020

Courtney worked at Disneyland Florida (pictured) and was an events manager at the time of her death

Emma, her sister, recalled how she and their father got in the car to search for her after hearing about a crash on the same road Courtney had been travelling.

'Me and my dad decided that we would go out and go look for her because we had heard there had been an accident on the A15. The road that she was travelling on. My dad and I got in the car. It was just a normal kind of winter's night I suppose. No kind of rain or snow or anything like that but it was dark.'

Back at home, Ginny and her other daughter Amy were anxiously watching the driveway.

'Amy and I were looking up the driveway and we saw headlights and we saw headlamps and we ran out and we saw police written on the side so in that moment I just think I knew,' said Ginny.

Emma said she knew something was terribly wrong when her sister's boyfriend called.

'I picked up the phone and I could hear my mum wailing in the background so upset. I could hear officer talking and their kind of radios going off. And it was my sister's boyfriend and he said 'I'm so sorry but Courtney's died'.

'And so I had to tell my dad in the car and so we turned around, we went home and everybody was just in pieces.'

Courtney, who was born in Kentucky, USA, had lived a 'remarkable life', studying Events Management at Sheffield Hallam University and working at Disneyland in Florida before becoming an events manager back in the UK.

Her mother Ginny said: 'When it happened, it wasn't really the classic knock on the door out of nowhere. We knew that something had happened'

Emma, her sister, (above) recalled how she and their father got in the car to search for her after hearing about a crash on the same road Courtney had been travelling

'Courtney was my eldest daughter,' Ginny said. 'A lot of people have said that she lit up a room. She loved to sing, especially country music and she would sing everywhere. She was kind-hearted. She had a wicked sense of humour and a giggle to go with it.'

The crash was caused by lorry driver Anthony Alderson, 67, who pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving.

He had veered off the road slightly to avoid an oncoming HGV and overcorrected, clipping three vehicles including Courtney's, whose car was forced off the road.

'She was doing nothing wrong. It's a busy road,' said Ginny. 'There was a LGV going the other way that stretch is quite narrow. He felt he was a little close to an HGV coming the other way.

'So he moved over slightly and started to go off the road and he then went to move back over and over-corrected. So that he ended up clipping three other vehicles and then Courtney. Her car was taken off the road with the impact. And she was the only one who didn't walk away that night.'

The court heard Alderson, from Peterlee in County Durham, had driven lorries for more than four decades and had a clean licence.

He was banned from driving for three years, given a 7pm to 7am curfew for six months back in August 2021, but has since retired.

'My sister was that light in the room and I think it has left a hole in the family that can never be replaced,' Emma said.
Billionaire Harvard alumnae Bill Ackman offered some brutal suggestions for his alma mater amid the school's ongoing battle with President Donald Trump.

The US president has taken aim at the Ivy League university for its failure to address anti-Israel protests on campus - and has already frozen $2.2 billion in federal grants to the school.

He has since asked the Internal Revenue Service to remove the school's tax-exempt status, and on Monday, Trump's Department of Education announced it was freezing even more funding for future research grants and other aid until Harvard concedes to a number of demands from the Trump administration.

Rather than meet these demands, though, Harvard is suing the Trump administration in an effort to get its federal funding restored.

But on Monday, Ackman called out that decision as 'the wrong thing to do' in an interview on CNBC's Squawk Box.

Instead, he suggested that the school acknowledge 'the areas where the president is absolutely correct' and work to address those issues.

The CEO of Pershing Square went on to say that he agreed with Trump's decision to pull his alma mater's tax-exempt status - which he called a 'privilege, not a right.'

He concluded by declaring, 'It's time for a change in leadership in the board at Harvard.'

Billionaire Harvard alumnae Bill Ackman offered some brutal suggestions for his alma mater amid its ongoing battle with President Donald Trump in an interview with CNBC's Squawk Box on Monday

US President Donald Trump has already frozen $2.2 billion in federal grants to the school

Harvard officials have thus far refused to meet the Trump administration's demands

In his remarks to CNBC host Joe Kernan on Monday, Ackman shared his own concerns about the Ivy League institution.

'Harvard became, over time, a political advocacy organization for one party,' he claimed. 'When a university goes from being a university to becoming a political advocacy organization, it doesn't deserve nonprofit status.'

He went on to claim that 'students are self-censoring their remarks in classrooms [and] teachers are doing the same because you can't have real conversations.

'Harvard should be a place where students go to learn and the best research gets done,' Ackman continued. 'It shouldn't be a place that is allowing pro-terrorist organizations on campus, that only allows certain kinds of thinking and speech on campus.

'That's a political organization,' he argued. 'It's not a university.'

But he did not put the blame entirely on Harvard President Alan Gerber, who took over from embattled former President Claudine Gay.

Instead, he pointed the finger at Harvard Corporation Lead Member Penny Pritzker.

'If this were any other kind of corporation, the notion that she's still chairman of Harvard, leading the charge here and, in terms of Harvard, managed everything from COVID... to endowment management, to waste, to free speech, to who they hired as president of the university... It's time for a change in leadership in the board at Harvard.'

Ackman made similar arguments on Tuesday, when he said Harvard should not be entitled to taxpayer funds when the school wastes money on what he calls 'administrative bloat.'

Ackman, the founder and CEO of Pershing Square, made similar arguments on Tuesday, when he said Harvard should not be entitled to taxpayer funds when the school wastes money on what he calls 'administrative bloat'

He took specific aim at Harvard Corporation Lead Member Penny Pritzker, saying the university needs new leadership

He also criticized the school's investment policies, saying the Ivy League university is facing a financial crisis and that its $53 billion endowment is 'poorly invested.'

'They have lost all future grants, their tax exemptions are at risk,' Ackman said on a panel at the Milken Institute Global Conference where 5,000 financiers, educators and scientists gather to discuss critical issues of the day.

'It is all self-induced gross mismanagement and I think that the [Trump] administration is doing precisely the right thing now,' Ackman told the packed room.

He then again hit out at the school's governing board, saying it has become insular and that there is no mechanism to remove members the way there is in corporate America where investors can run board challenges.

'What happens when you have a board that can self-appoint itself, and it becomes insular, and with a $53 billion endowment, they think, okay, we can just do whatever is on our mind,' Ackman argued.

Trump has taken aim at the Ivy League university for its failure to address anti-Israel protests on campus

Ackman claimed students are afraid to speak up in classrooms

His remarks came shortly after Education Secretary Linda McMahon sent a letter to Harvard President Garber saying that 'Harvard is not eligible for any new grants from the federal government until they demonstrate responsible management at the university.'

Research grants would be the ones impacted - not federal student aid, which funnels through universities before providing students with financial relief.

For these grants to be re-issued, a senior Education Department official said Harvard 'would have to enter into a negotiation with the government to satisfy what the government says is in compliance with all federal laws.'

The senior official then railed against the Ivy League school's 'terrible behavior' saying that it has failed in four main areas - with anti-Semitism being at the top of the list.

'They have become monolithically leftist and that DEI ideology connects to the anti-Semitism problem because they're teaching young people to make snap judgments about each other based on identity and skin color,' the senior official said.

The official said the two other areas where Harvard has failed include academic rigor and racial discrimination.

Education Secretary Linda McMahon has penned a letter to Harvard's president threatening to withhold all new federal grants

'The Trump administration won't stand by as taxpayer dollars are used to support colleges that tolerate anti-Semitism or that support racist policies,' the official continued during a call with reporters Monday night.

The official added said that Harvard's endowment is 'virtually untaxed' and 'massive.'

'It's larger than the GDP of many countries and it was only possible for them to amass that thanks to the blessings of this country that they do business in,' the official said.

But Garber has previously said he won't bend to the government, and even sued last month to overturn the funding freeze, pushing back against the government's 'sweeping and intrusive demands.'

He has since also called out Trump's plans to remove the school's tax-exempt status, which he told the Wall Street Journal is 'granted to educational institutions to enable them to successfully carry out their mission of education and, for research universities, of research.

'Obviously, that would be severely impaired if we were to lose our tax-exempt status,' Garber said.
Keir Starmer was last night accused of undercutting British workers to seal a 5 billion trade deal with India.

Under the agreement, tens of thousands of temporary Indian workers will be exempt from paying National Insurance in Britain, making them cheaper to hire.

New Delhi heralded the deal as an unprecedented win, but the UK Prime Minister was accused of introducing two-tier taxes after National Insurance contributions for British firms were increased in last years Budget.

Many companies warned they will be forced to slash jobs or even shut down. Separately, the agreement said there would be more visas for yoga teachers as they were now classed as skilled workers, alongside chefs and musicians, capped at 1,800 a year.

The row comes just days after Labour was battered in the local elections by voters who turned to Reform UK over concerns about immigration.

Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch refused to agree to the deal when she was trade secretary over the NI issue and concerns about visas and fairness.

This is two-tier taxes from two-tier Keir, she said.

When Labour negotiates, Britain loses.

PM Keir Starmer calls Narendra Modi, his Indian counterpart, before announcing a trade agreement whereby tens of thousands of temporary Indian workers will be exempt from paying National Insurance in Britain

The Labour leader was last night accused of undercutting British workers to seal a 5 billion trade deal with India

New Delhi heralded the deal as an unprecedented win, but the UK Prime Minister was accused of introducing two-tier taxes (pictured: the two leaders at the G20 summit in 2024)

No 10 said Sir Keir will visit India at the earliest opportunity following his phone call with Modi yesterday

The agreement will see workers who are seconded to the UK offices of Indian-based employers, or a multi-national with offices in the country, exempt from NI for the first three years  allowing them to avoid paying both at home, as per Indian law, and in the UK. The firm will also not have to pay the contributions. The deal will be reciprocal for British workers transferred to workplaces in India.

Officials have not provided an assessment of the cost or impact on UK businesses.

The change is understood to have been a key demand by New Delhis negotiators who said the agreement, which has been three years in the making, will result in significant financial gains for Indian companies.

The deal will also see the UK lower tariffs on clothes, shoes and food such as frozen prawns from the subcontinent, in exchange for reciprocal cuts for products including whisky and cars.

But the tax break  omitted from the UK press release on the pact  immediately provoked anger.

Grim figures yesterday revealed the UKs services sector had shrunk for the first time in 18 months, blamed on the NI increase  which came into force in April  and Donald Trumps trade war.

Tory business spokesman Harriett Baldwin told the Commons: This Government is literally putting up taxes for British workers, but cutting them for Indian workers. This deal looks like its subsidising Indian labour while undercutting British workers.

And the partys justice spokesman, Robert Jenrick, wrote on X: British workers come last in Starmers Britain.

The Prime Minister hosted a meeting of Indian investors and CEOs at 10 Downing Street in December

Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch refused to agree to the deal when she was trade secretary over the NI issue and concerns about visas and fairness

Robert Jenrick, wrote on X: British workers come last in Starmers Britain'

Writing in todays Mail, Reform leader Nigel Farage, fresh from delivering Labour a bloody nose at last weeks local elections, said: In Starmers Britain, people who have grown up here, worked hard, paid their taxes and propped up the economy are effectively being asked to pay to put themselves out of work. It is nothing short of a betrayal of working people in this country.

Defending the deal, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds pointed to equivalent agreements with the EU, the US and South Korea under the Double Contribution Convention.

It means that when our people are moved by a company to India they will be paying into the UK system and not the Indian system, and when Indian people are temporarily in the UK theyll be paying into their system and not to ours, he said. But its very specific as to who this applies to.

But Tory MP Nick Timothy said ministers were conning the public, adding: These changes will create a massive incentive for UK firms to work with Indian service providers, undercutting domestic workers, companies and contractors.

Reform leader Nigel Farage said: In Starmers Britain, people who have grown up here, worked hard, paid their taxes and propped up the economy are effectively being asked to pay to put themselves out of work'

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said the deal 'means that when our people are moved by a company to India they will be paying into the UK system and not the Indian system'

Indian nationals accounted for the highest proportion of UK work visas issued last year.

No 10 said Sir Keir will visit India at the earliest opportunity following a phone call between the PM and his counterpart Narendra Modi.

Lib Dem Treasury spokesman Daisy Cooper said: The Governments failure to even publish an impact assessment of these changes gives the impression of something that is completely half-baked.
After about six years of living in mortal fear, the people hardly dared to believe it. It was May 1945 and for weeks they had been promised that the war was about to end but...what if?

The news from Germany was promising  Allied forces storming across the Rhine, Berlin about to fall to the Russians, then Hitler dead, a self-administered bullet in his evil brain.

But what if the Nazis had one last malign trick up their sleeves, a suicide onslaught on London, more doodlebugs and V2 rockets, a blitz to rival any of the murderous air raids that had gone before?

Mollie Panter-Downes, brilliant chronicler of the Second World War in her series of Letters From London for The New Yorker, noted this reluctance on the faces of a weary population.

It is difficult for them to forget that they could be under some sort of fire right up to the last minute, she wrote.

Which was why, when the official order went out that dimmed lights could be turned up again and window blackouts taken down, the days of a crochety air raid warden shouting, Put that light out! gone for ever, surprisingly few people complied, leaving London as murky as ever.

The end had been on the cards for a while but it was only at 7.40pm on Monday, May 7, that the BBC had interrupted a piano recital on the radio to officially announce that the war was over and that tomorrow  Tuesday May 8  would be VE Day.

Even on the day that victory was to be declared, some had a last-minute frisson of fear.

Pictured: Soldiers pulling copies of 'Stars and Stripes' from the press of the London Times with the headline reading 'Germany Quits'

Pictured: Jubilant Londoners dancing in Piccadilly Circus on VE Day

Pictured: VE Day celebrations in London at the end of the Second World War - huge crowds gathered around Piccadilly Circus during the celebrations

An early morning thunderstorm rocked the capital, so loud and intense that Londoners woken from sleep instinctively reached out for the bedside torch and considered heading for the shelter before realising it was nature, not Nazis, disturbing their rest. They were safe, they really were. The party could begin.

Suddenly there were flags everywhere. Selfridges had been doing a roaring trade with its 25 shilling Union Jacks and streamers priced at 7 shillings; at Woolworths a special commemorative VE Day hair slide was a shilling. Thats if you could get your hands on one.

Supplies were running out and queues that wartime curse  forming. And not just for bunting but for bread, meat, fish, even alcohol to toast the victory. The war was over but rationing most certainly was not.

Housewives stood in line with their coupons, carrying their usual string shopping bag in one hand and a red, white and blue flag in the other. But, for one day at least, all that could go hang as throughout the country a relieved population sang and danced, revelling in the long-awaited peace.

In central London the streets filled with people determined to celebrate on what was a perfect English summers day of sunshine and blue skies, as if fulfilling Vera Lynns poignant  and now prophetic  wartime promise that: Well meet again, dont know where, dont know when/But I know well meet again some sunny day.

In their hundreds of thousands, they waited for Winnie to appear, waving his familiar homburg hat, and address them on your victory, your hour. Then they flooded down the Mall to Buckingham Palace to cheer ecstatically the King, the Queen, the two pretty princesses (Elizabeth in her army uniform) and the Prime Minister smiling happily from the balcony.

That day a tremendous wave of pent-up feeling broke loose, remembered a then-schoolboy Michael Mason. People waved flags, climbed lamp posts and blew whistles.

Bells pealed from churches, ships sirens sounded from the docks, tugs on the Thames tooted out a du-di-duh-duh, morse code for V for victory. There was no cannon fire, a deliberate decision by the authorities, who understandably judged, that Londoners had had enough of bangs.

Pictured: Jubilant crowds at Piccadilly Circus, London, celebrating victory

Pictured: Princess Elizabeth (the late Queen Elizabeth II), Queen Elizabeth, Winston Churchill, King George VI, and Princess Margaret Rose waving from the balcony of Buckingham Palace during VE Day celebrations

The streets rang with endless song  impromptu renditions of Roll Out The Barrel, Knees Up, Mother Brown and so on  and conga lines formed as, noted Panter-Downes, each group danced its own dance, sang its own song and went its own way as the spirit moved it.

She spotted babies with patriotic ribbons in their hair, old people in red, white and blue paper hats and dogs with Union Jack collars.

She was particularly taken by the number of extraordinary pretty young girls. In their thin, bright dresses, they streamed out into the parks and streets like flocks of twittering gaily plumaged Cockney birds.

They wore cornflowers and poppies in their freshly curled hair as they strolled with their uniformed boyfriends, arms candidly about each other.

Some even dared openly to smoke cigarettes, convention thrown to the wind.

Rules were for breaking that day. The police turned a blind eye in Piccadilly Circus as a boy shimmied up the empty plinth where the statue of Eros had stood before being taken down and stored away for safety.

At the top he stood on one leg, aiming an imaginary bow in imitation of the god of love. The crowd roared their approval and others hauled themselves up the monument until it was covered with young people.

Later that evening, the big lamps outside Buckingham Palace came on to, as Panter-Downes put it, oohs of astonishment from children who had never seen anything of that kind in their short, blacked-out lives. Floodlights lit up St Pauls Cathedral, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, to signify that the war, the darkness, really was over.

Pictured: VE Day celebrations in London at the end of the Second World War - huge crowds gathered around Piccadilly Circus during the celebrations

Pictured: Winston Churchill is mobbed by the excited crowds as he made his triumphant ride to the Houses of Parliament after his victory speech which was relayed to the thousands in Whitehall

Pictured: Winston Churchill gives his famous V for Victory sign to a crowd of 50,000 full with the spirit of VE day from the balcony of the Ministry of Health

Pictured: Crowds gather in Trafalgar Square to celebrate VE Day, marking the end of European conflict in World War II

Similar partying was taking place across the country, with dancing in the streets to music from pianos and wind-up gramophones.

There were fireworks and bonfires, all forbidden under wartime regulations. In one town, folk pooled their resources and their talents to make effigies of Hitler and Goering, which they hung from a makeshift gallows before ceremonially burning them.

On trestle tables lined up in streets lay blancmanges, jellies and cakes, conjured up from somewhere for the children, who smiled at the Box Brownie cameras recording the festivities, the girls in party frocks, the boys smoothing down their hair with Brylcreem.

It was a time for treats. One lad, an orphan of the war, his family wiped out, was at his convent foster home when a boy burst into the class shouting that the ice cream factory down the road was giving away free ice cream, one to each child to mark the end of the war.

We all rushed out, with the teacher shouting at us to come back at once. When we got there the queue seemed a mile long but we waited and got our ice cream in a paper wrapper.

Food took on a special significance. One family celebrated by solemnly opening a tin of corned beef theyd been keeping since 1939 specially for the occasion.

The pleasure, though, was fleeting. Meat remained on ration for many years to come, an indication that if any reveller in 1945 thought VE Day was a passport to the promised land, then they couldnt be more wrong. The fruits of victory proved meagre fare.

Yes, the killing had stopped in Europe (though not in the Far East, where there would be three more months of fighting and dying). But for all the exuberance of VE Day, post-war Britain turned out to be a grim, sour place.

Pictured: VE Day celebrations in London at the end of the Second World War - some of the huge crowds gathered in Whitehall for the celebrations

Pictured: A vast crowd assembles in front of Buckingham Palace to cheer Britain's Royal family minutes after the official announcement of Germany's unconditional surrender in World War II

Pictured: British men, women and children celebrating 'Victory in Europe Day' in the street

Just a fortnight later was another bank holiday and, in contrast to the blue skies of VE Day, it poured with rain. Some said it was a sign.

Brits who headed off to the coast for the day found there were no glass windows left in the shelters on the promenade to keep out the howling wind. Beaches were out of bounds because of mines, but no matter because there were no buckets and spades for the kids to play with. None had been made in the war.

The Daily Mail reported: Brighton tried to be its old self, but with most of the shops, cafes, amusements, pubs and hotels closed, it was impossible.

Winston Churchill had hinted that the future was going to be far from a picnic in his address to the nation. Take a night off to celebrate, hed urged, but after that we must begin the task of rebuilding our hearth and homes.

It was a tougher task than even he could have expected. The country was a mess, many of its cities wrecked by German bombers, the economy virtually bankrupted by the huge cost of fighting the war on borrowed money and dependent for its very survival on transatlantic loans made on crippling terms.

The US  the new world superpower, alongside the Soviet Union  could have been more generous. Its infrastructure at home was unravaged, unlike ours; its citizens were on the cusp of a new prosperity, unlike ours. It chose not to be.

Britain was broke  and it showed. The bacon ration was cut, the lard ration halved.

Floodlighting of public buildings that had so lit up VE Day was banned a week later because of a fuel shortage. The clothing ration was slashed at a time when men were coming home from war, understandably eager to swap their uniforms for civvies but finding little to wear.

Pictured: A truck of revellers passing through the Strand in London following the announcement of Germany's surrender and the end of hostilities in Europe

Pictured: Two British sailors in a fountain in Trafalgar Square, London, with Joyce Digney (left) and Cynthia Covello, members of the Land Army, who travelled to London to celebrate VE Day

Pictured: Crowds in Westminster as Big Ben strikes 3pm, the moment Prime Minister Winston Churchill made his statement from Whitehall, declaring that the war in Europe is over

After the initial euphoria, it was a dispiriting return. Was this what so many had fought and died for?

Many of those millions of men demobbed in dribs and drabs over the next year and a half, and returning from overseas assignments, from battlefronts, from prisoner-of-war camps, found themselves at a loss.

There had, naively, been an expectation that civilian life would begin again as if nothing had happened. As Vera Lynn had also sung: The shepherd will tend his sheep/The valley will bloom again/And Jimmy will go to sleep/ In his own little room again.

But normal service was not resumed. Society had changed. Wives had independence after years of making do without a man. Now he was back, if he thought he could just take over where he had left off, he had another think coming. Their children barely knew who they were. Many men felt unwanted, unappreciated, unmoored.

Actual homecomings were often deliriously happy, but just as often a let-down. Confused little Jimmies hid from the stranger who had just walked into their lives, bold as brass, as if he belonged there, as if this home was his! A sergeant who bent to stroke his own dog was bitten to the bone.

Divorce rocketed among unhappy families in which the experience of war took a heavy toll, a widespread phenomenon that went largely unrecognised in that stiff-upper-lip era.

Too many men were secretly scarred, particularly those who had seen action, watched friends die, perhaps been wounded themselves. Once-happy husbands and fathers were withdrawn, impatient, irascible, unkind.

My father and I never got on together, one daughter remembered. He hit and punched me frequently for no good reason. He swore he would change but never did. His was a life wrecked by the war. As was my mothers. And mine.

Pictured: A teenage Princess Elizabeth danced in jubilation on VE Day after slipping into the crowds unnoticed outside Buckingham Palace

Pictured: Young children in bomb-scarred Battersea in south London with their Union Flags on May 8, 1945

Another woman recalled things never being the same after her fathers return. In his head he still had an enemy to fight, while my mother had the constant struggle to keep the home fire burning. Within a couple of years, he had left, and all I had to hold on to were my precious memories of the four contented pre-war years when we were all together.

It would be years before traumas such as these were recognised  let alone, if ever, confronted.

There were also, of course, the other wrecked lives, the many British homes where the fathers and sons had died for their country: close to 400,000 of them, plus the 70,000 civilians lost at home to the Blitz.

Here the day of victory was hollow, the grief and sense of loss hardly assuaged by seeing others dance in the streets. The end of the war had come  but not soon enough for them.

As we rightly celebrate VE Day, they should not be forgotten. But nor should the perhaps undeniable fact that the day of rejoicing turned out to be a brief flash of light in an otherwise benighted era. At astonishing speed, the euphoria of victory turned to cynicism and distrust, the hallmarks of a war-weary land all too plainly not fit for heroes.

It would be many years before the gloom came anywhere near lifting  probably not until a new, young, vibrant queen came to the throne, a new broom for a new age.

As people took to the streets again in 1953 and partied for her coronation  the service itself shown on that new household necessity, the television  only then could it fairly be said that Britain had at last weathered the post-war storm.
Columbia University has slashed 180 staffers after the Trump administration revoked more than $400 million in federal funding.

The Ivy League school announced the layoffs as the institution faces financial strain following the Trump administration's decision to pull millions in federal funding in March following its 'mishandling' of protests against Israel.

The move is a humiliating downfall for the university after initially attempting to stand up to Trump over demands they claimed 'require us to relinquish our independence and autonomy.'

Within weeks the school began to accept these demands. However, a full restoration of funding requires a serious of dramatic actions.

The university sent out a letter on Tuesday which detailed a 'two-pronged effort related to grants terminated by the federal government.'

The letter furthered that those efforts included restoring government agency partnerships and adjusting spending until funding could be restored, NBC News reported.

'Columbia's leadership continues discussions with the federal government in support of resuming activity on these research awards and additional other awards that have remained active, but unpaid,' the letter said.

'We are working on planning for every eventuality, but the strain in the meantime, financially and on our research mission, is intense.'

Strain on finances, the university said, resulted in 180 staff members, who 'have been working, in whole or in part, on impacted federal grants,' were laid off on Tuesday.

According to officials, those laid off represent 20 percent of the staff funded by the Trump administration's grants, the outlet reported.

Columbia University has slashed over 100 staffers after the Trump administration revoked more than $400 million in federal funding after the 'mishandling' of pro-Palestine protests on campus

'Columbia's leadership continues discussions with the federal government in support of resuming activity on these research awards and additional other awards that have remained active, but unpaid,' the letter said

Strain on finances following Trump's cuts, the university said, resulted in 180 staff members, who 'have been working, in whole or in part, on impacted federal grants,' were laid off on Tuesday

The financial strain has also forced the institution to reduce some of its activity, including 'running lighter footprints' within research infrastructure,' officials said.

'We do not make these decisions lightly. We are deeply committed, at Columbia, to the critical work of invention, innovation and discovery,' they added.

Officials added that the institution would 'continue to make prudent budget decisions, even in areas not impacted by federally funded research, to ensure the university's long-term financial stability.'

The efforts to stay in budget included ensuring that salaries will remain fixed across the university for the next fiscal year as well as launching a 'voluntary retirement incentive program.'

'In the coming weeks and months, we will need to continue to take actions that preserve our financial flexibility and allow us to invest in areas that drive us forward,' officials added.

'This is a deeply challenging time across all higher education, and we are attempting to navigate through tremendous ambiguity with precision, which will be imperfect at times.'

University spokesperson Jessica Murphy declined to say whether more layoffs may be expected.

While the layoffs were expected, faculty found them 'dispiriting,' according to secretary of Columbia's chapter of the American Association University Professors Marcel Agueros.

'In the coming weeks and months, we will need to continue to take actions that preserve our financial flexibility and allow us to invest in areas that drive us forward,' officials said

Trump demanded the university disallow students from wearing masks, the hiring of campus security with the allowance to arrest students, to abolish its current disciplinary process, and the appointment of a new senior vice provost to oversee the university's department of Middle East, South Asian and African Studies

While the layoffs were expected, faculty found them 'dispiriting,' according to secretary of Columbia's chapter of the American Association University Professors Marcel Agueros

While officials have said they are working with the administration to restore funding, Agueros, an astronomy professor, told AP News that the damage would take years to heal from.

'When there's an interruption in funding, people have to leave, new people can't be hired, some initiatives have to be put on hold, others need to be stopped, so research stops moving forward,' he added.

The announcement followed Trump's accusations against the Ivy League school which claimed that it took 'inaction in the face of persistent harassment of Jewish students.'

The White House labelled the protests as antisemitic, a label rejected by those who participated in the student-led demonstrations.

Trump demanded the university disallow students from wearing masks, the hiring of campus security with the allowance to arrest students, to abolish its current disciplinary process, and the appointment of a new senior vice provost to oversee the university's department of Middle East, South Asian and African Studies.

Though Columbia caved to Trump's orders, students, staff, faculty and alumni held a protest against the university's decision to comply.

A 25-hour 'speak out' protest was organized last week where one student labeled the cuts imposed by Trump as 'an all-out attack on science and academic freedom.'

'We are pioneers in biomedical research, legal research, and environmental science research, and all of that got cut simply because the Trump administration had a vendetta against universities,' the student, David Guirgis, told NBC News.

The announcement followed Trump's accusations against the Ivy League school which claimed that it took 'inaction in the face of persistent harassment of Jewish students'

Columbia officials added that the institution would 'continue to make prudent budget decisions, even in areas not impacted by federally funded research, to ensure the university's long-term financial stability'

Historians described the order as an unprecedented intrusion on university rights long treated by the Supreme Court as an extension of the First Amendment.

Freedom of speech advocates immediately decried Columbia's decision to acquiesce.

'A sad day for Columbia and for our democracy,' Jameel Jaffer, the director of Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University, said in a social media post.

Trump's Education Secretary Linda McMahon said: 'Since October 7, Jewish students have faced relentless violence, intimidation, and anti-Semitic harassment on their campuses  only to be ignored by those who are supposed to protect them.

'Universities must comply with all federal anti-discrimination laws if they are going to receive federal funding.'

The announcement coincided with recent anti-Israel campus protests at Columbia's Barnard College, which Trump aggressively condemned.

'Agitators will be imprisoned/or permanently sent back to the country from which they came. American students will be permanently expelled or, depending on the crime, arrested. NO MASKS!' he stated on social media.

Trump officials said the Joint Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism will continue to review and coordinate with other federal agencies to move swiftly.

The White House labelled the protests as antisemitic, a label rejected by those who participated in the student-led demonstrations

Though Columbia caved to Trump's orders, students, staff, faculty and alumni held a protest against the university's decision to comply. A 25-hour 'speak out' protest was organized last week where one student labeled the cuts imposed by Trump as 'an all-out attack on science and academic freedom'

That group is made up of officials at the Justice Department, Education Department, Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. General Services Administration (GSA).

Columbia, located in New York City, 'abandoned [their] obligation to Jewish students studying on its campus,' officials said.

Since the horrific attack, anti-Israel protests have sprung up across the nation, including most recently at Columbia University and Barnard College in Manhattana university hotbed of pro-Gaza activism.

State Department officials also shared that they will soon review foreign student visa holders who were arrested though allowed to stay in the country.
An Aussie mum has scored a huge win in a lengthy legal battle against Louis Vuitton after the $429billion luxury fashion house tried to change the name of her brand.

Rim Daghmash, founder of Kenz Beauty which is based on the Gold Coast, named her company in honour of her daughter, Kenzie, who is living with autism.

The name also holds special meaning, translating to 'treasure of beauty' in Arabic.

But her brand caught the attention of global fashion giant LVMH, which claimed that Kenz Beauty was 'deceptively similar' to one of its own labels, Kenzo.

The company pushed for Ms Daghmash to change the name.

Despite the legal pressure, the Queensland business owner refused to give in.

'A five-year-old will be able to tell the difference between Kenzo and Kenz Beauty, they are two totally different names,' Ms Daghmash told A Current Affair.

The battle kicked off in 2023, as the two sides clashed over whether the mum-run beauty label should be forced to rebrand.

Rim Daghmash (pictured) has had a major victory against the luxury giant LVMH

Ms Daghmash stood firm against the luxury giant, fighting to protect her deeply personal brand name.

While LVMH proposed alternative names like 'The Beauty of Kenz' and 'Beautiful Kenz,' Ms Daghmash refused to change her business.

'Kenzie is my autistic daughter's name, in Arabic (my heritage) it means my treasure,' she explained on her website.

'I called it Kenz Beauty, because Kenzie's beauty is out of this world, autistic children are so beautiful.'

Eventually, both parties reached a compromise: the brand would be known as Kenz Beauty & Co.

'I think that they got sick of it as much as we did,' Ms Daghmash shared, speaking to Channel Nine.

[I'm] very relieved because this business is my life. It means everything for me and for my family.'

With the dispute now behind her, Ms Daghmash has moved to expand her business.

Mega conglomerate LVMH claimed the name was too similar to fashion brand Kenzo

With a growing clientele and a team of five professional skin therapists, Ms Daghmash continues to expand her range of beauty services.

She now operates South Australia's only Moroccan hammam, a traditional, ladies-only day spa inspired by the ones she visited in her youth in the Middle East.
A violent predator group has gotten the attention of the FBI after luring children into extreme behavior over the internet.

The sadistic group - known as '764' - is known as a nihilistic violent extremist network (NVE) that befriends teens through popular online platforms, then coerces them into performing cruel and sexual acts.

'We see a lot of bad things, but this is one of the most disturbing things we're seeing,' said FBI Assistant Director David Scott told ABC News.

'They will encourage them sometimes to commit suicide, they will encourage them to do cutting, they will encourage them to harm their pets.'

The FBI has over 250 investigations into 764 underway, with every single one of the bureaus 55 field offices across the country handling a case.

Two men accused of having leadership roles in the virulent online exploitation were arrested and charged last week.

Leonidas Varagiannis, 21, and Prasan Nepal, 20, allegedly led a core subgroup of 764 known as '764 Inferno,' which targeted vulnerable people, including children, with tactics designed to induce self-harm, the Department of Justice said.

The pair were also involved in making and distributing child sexual abuse material, which was combined with other 'gore and violent material to create digital "Lorebooks."'

Officials are sounding the alarm about a group called '764' that targets kids online, then forces them into sexual and violent behavior

FBI Assistant Director David Scott (pictured) said the group encourages kids to commit suicide, cut themselves and harm their pets

The material was then traded among group members and treated as currency to recruit new members or maintain status within the network.

Nepal, known as 'Trippy,' was arrested on April 22 in North Carolina. Varagiannis, known as 'War,' is a U.S. citizen living in Greece. He was arrested there on April 28.

Nepal is accused of starting 764 with its Texas-based founder, Bradley Cadenhead, who is serving an 80-year-prison sentence after pleading guilty to several child pornography-related charges in 2023.

Cadenhead, who was 15 at the time, launched the online community on the social platform Discord and called it "764" after the ZIP code of where he lived, according to court documents.

The FBI warned of a sharp increase in 764 activity in a March 6 public service announcement.

764 goals include social unrest and the downfall of the current world order, including the United States Government, the agency said.

'These defendants are accused of orchestrating one of the most heinous online child exploitation enterprises we have ever encountered - a network built on terror, abuse, and the deliberate targeting of children,' U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said.

FBI Director Kash Patel said the network was designed 'to exploit children and created a guide for the disgusting online content they wanted.'

Prasan Nepal (pictured), 20, was arrested last week for allegedly having a leadership role in the organization

Nepal is accused of starting 764 with Bradley Cadenhead (pictured) who is serving an 80-year-prison sentence for several child pornography-related charges

The criminal complaint filed against Varagiannis and Nepal included instructional material on how to manipulate and abuse girls.

'In order to manipulate into one producing content in your name, you must make her feel loved to the point she does not want to let go or lose you, and that's when you start requesting work like blood signs,' the instructions state.

'The best woman to target are ones that have depression or mentally ill ones.'

In one case, a 17-year-old girl from Connecticut was targeted on Roblox and Discord by a 764 member who convinced her they were a couple, reported ABC News.

Her coerced her into making graphic content, including a nude Barbie doll with '764' written on it and a note written in her blood calling the man who targeted her a 'god.'

She was even accused of helping direct a series of swatting threats to local schools, which she was eventually arrested for.
Flu cases have exploded in Australia with health authorities bracing for a horror season this winter.

More than 63,000 cases have already been reported in 2025, an alarming figure that is higher the average number of cases over the past five years.

Experts have warned the high number of cases coupled with a low vaccination rate could lead to a 'severe' flu season.

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) called for action earlier this year after over 48,000 cases were reported in the first quarter of 2025.

In the same period, in 2024, there were 30,494 cases, and in 2023, there were 18,582 cases.

Of the cases reported in the first three months of 2025, 22 per cent were in children aged nine and younger and eight per cent were in those aged 1014.

A further six per cent were diagnosed in adults aged 35-39 years old.

Around 38 per cent of reported cases were in NSW, and 22 per cent were each reported in Queensland and Victoria.

Influenza cases have exploded in Australia with health authorities bracing for a horror flu season this winter (stock image)

This year's early rise in flu cases led to the RACGP calling on GPs and the community to 'work together and get vaccinated'.

RACGP President Dr Michael Wright revealed that over 1,000 deaths in 2024 involved the flu.

He said this was a '67.3 per cent increase on 2023, while more than 4200 people were admitted to hospital'.

'When you consider that 2024 also saw 2,503 people die from Covid and 78 from respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, its easy to see how a "perfect storm" of infection could push our health system to near breaking point,' Dr Wright added.

The flu can cause severe illness including severe bronchitis, inflammation of the brain, heart problems like myocarditis and in rare cases muscle issues such as acute viral myositis.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, young children, older adults, people with chronic medical conditions, immunocompromised people and smokers are at greater risk of severe illness or complications.

Flu vaccination rates have continued to fall in recent years.

According to the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, in 2020, 13.6 per cent of people aged 15 to 50 had been vaccinated by May.

Flu vaccination rates in Australia have fallen in recent years (stock image)

In comparison, 8.2 per cent have been vaccinated this year so far.

Under the National Immunisation Program in Australia, the flu vaccine is free for people with certain medical conditions, young children, pregnant women, adults aged 65 and older, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Professor Julie Leask from the University of Sydney told SBS News Australia's flu vaccination rates are 'dire'.

'We need to remind people that this is not just about protecting yourself from what could be a rotten couple of weeks laid out, days of work, feeling really crook,' she said.

'If I get a flu vaccine, I'm less likely to get the flu and therefore much less likely to pass it on to my old mother, who I really don't want to make sick from influenza because she could get really sick from it.'
Adam Bandt is in real danger of losing his seat to Labor's Sarah Witty as she rides her party's landslide election victory into an unexpected victory in the seat of Melbourne.

The Greens leader has not conceded the result yet as postal vote counting continues, but in reality his political career looks over after he fell behind Ms Witty in the vote count on Tuesday.

On figures released mid-morning on Wednesday, Ms Witty led Mr Bandt by 1,581 votes in the two-candidate count with only 3,417 postal votes yet to be counted, and postals flowing to Labor 63 per cent to the Greens' 37 per cent.

Mr Bandt has held the inner-city electorate since 2010 when he became the first Greens candidate to be elected to the lower house.

However, Ms Witty's victory looks set to leave the Greens without a single House seat for the first time since then.

Ms Witty is a foster carer of ten years and has been a local of inner-city Richmond for over 20 years.

The Labor candidate had worked in corporate banking, insurance and real estate before becoming chief executive of the Nappy Collective, a non-profit that collects and distributes nappies to needy families.

Ms Witty could be an asset to help Prime Minister Anthony Albanese deliver his $32bn Homes for Australia plan to build 1.2million new homes by 2030.

Labor's Sarah Witty (pictured) is on track to win the Melbourne seat

Adam Bandt (pictured) has fallen behind his opponent in the vote count

According to her campaign promotional material, she has 'raised over $110million for social and affordable housing' through her work with Homes for Homes.

Property owners who sign up to Homes for Homes promise to donate 0.1 per cent of the sale price of their house when it sells, to help build homes for those in need.

Ms Witty's battle against the Greens leader is not her first tilt at politics, as she unsuccessfully ran for the Yarra City Council last year, narrowly missing out in her ward in a three-cornered contest against the Greens candidate and the successful independent who campaigned on moving the Richmond drug injecting room.

Despite that loss, she parlayed that experience into what appeared to be a longshot run for the federal seat of Melbourne, where Mr Bandt was expected to win comfortably.

In a social media video ahead of the campaign, Ms Witty expressed a desire to fight inequality, having seen first-hand in her role as a foster parent.

'I've seen lots of disadvantage through my time in many different roles, and I really want to make sure that every person gets the best chance for the best life that they deserve,' she said.

'I decided to have a go at politics because I saw some disadvantage in the world and decided that we can do more, and I wanted to do more to help.

'So I put my hand up for this election.'

Ms Witty said she stood in the election because she wants everyone to have 'the best chance for the best life that they deserve'

During her campaign, Ms Witty pledged Labor's promises of 'wiping 20 per cent off your HECS debt' and 'opening more Medicare Urgent Care Clinics and increasing bulk billing'.

While the Greens were yet to concede the seat, polling expert Dr Kevin Bonham said Mr Bandts political career is over.

'Melbourne: ALP gain from Green,' he wrote on X on Tuesday night. 'Seat has been moved to expected win status (for Labor).'

He said that although he avoids 'calling' seats he projected Mr Bandt's position was 'not recoverable'.
Thousands of brightly-coloured Aussies have called for cannabis to be legalised at the country's annual MardiGrass parade over the weekend.

Thousands flocked to the small town of Nimbin, 75km west of Byron Bay in northern NSW, for the 33rd MardiGrass festival from Friday to Sunday.

With events ranging from law advocacy seminars to 'educational' talks about the wonders of magic mushrooms, there was something for all psychedelic fans.

The festival peaked with its famous pro-weed parade on Sunday.

Participants included the dancing Ganja Faeries dressed in green and a convoy of Kombi vans, a classic icon of the area's hippie culture.

Tickets for the event started at $30 for a day pass and jumped to $150 for those looking to attend the entire festival and stay at the campsite.

Nimbin's relationship with the alternative community began in 1973 with the 10-day Aquarius Festival. The music, art and cultural event invited those at the forefront of counterculture movements to unite.

Many of those who attended the festival stayed in Nimbin following its end, using cheap property to set up communes.

The event included live music, educational seminars and law reform discussions

Legal advice was offered to those attending the festival as cannabis use goes against Australian law

Australians flocked to Nimbin from around the country for the festival

The festival's famous parade was held on Sunday with Ganja Faeries in attendance

Participants included the dancing Ganja Faeries dressed in green and a convoy of kombi vans

The four-day event ran from Friday to Sunday

The new population saw Nimbin, and nearby Byron Bay, established as the homeland for Australian hippies.

Nimbin MardiGrass is held on the first weekend of May every year.

Its main focus is to protest drug laws and educate people on cannabis' various uses, including its medicinal properties.

The festival also helps recreational weed users understand the existing laws surrounding cannabis in Australia.

The Nimbin HEMP Embassy, a volunteer-led organisation, is a major sponsor of the event.

'MardiGrass is one of the best organised and most peaceful pro-testivals in Australia,' it said on its website.

'The event features an international conference, The Hemposium, which provides cutting edge information on industrial hemp, medicinal cannabis and drug law reform.

'MardiGrass is a major boost to the local economy and a huge drawcard for Australian and international tourists.'

Many attendees wore green in a nod to the festival's theme

MardiGrass described itself as a 'pro-testival'

Ganja Faeries, dressed in green, participated in the parade

Sober drivers were available to ferry festivalgoers to and from their accommodation

Cannabis use at the festival is not legal under Australian law

Sober drivers were available to ferry festivalgoers to and from their accommodation while volunteer group Jungle Patrol assisted with crowd control.

This year's festival also marked the 30th anniversary of the festival's Hemp Olympix which included 'bong throw' and 'joint rolling' competitions.

Cannabis use at the festival is not legal under Australian law.
A triple-0 call Dr Chris Webster made to alert police after Erin Patterson left Leongatha Hospital has been played to the jury.

Below is an edited transcript of the call, made just after 9.25am on July 31, 2023, which was played to the jury.

Dr Webster: This is Dr Chris Webster calling from Leongatha Hospital and I have a concern regarding a patient that presented here earlier and has left the building and is potentially exposed a toxin from mushroom poising and I've tried several times to get hold of her on her mobile phone.

Triple-0 operator: Before you give me any more information, what address do you need police to attend, Dr Chris?

Dr Webster: Should I give hospital address or the address of the patient?

Operator: If you know where they are, the address of the patient?

Webster: I have the address of the patient, [REDACTED] Gibson St - G-I-B-S-O-N - Street, Leongatha 3953

*Redacted details about location of street*

Operator: What's her name?

Dr Webster: The last name is Patterson - P-A-T-T-E-R-S-O-N

Operator: First name?

Dr Webster: Erin - E-R-I-N

Operator: Do you have a date of birth?

Webster: 30th of September, 1974

Operator: When did she present at hospital?

Dr Webster: At 8.05am

Operator: Today?

Dr Webster: Yep

Op: Mushroom poisoning you said?

Dr Webster: So there were five people who ate a meal on Saturday and two of them are in intensive care at Dandenong Hospital. Two have been transferred from Leongatha Hospital to Dandenong Hospital and Erin presented this morning with symptoms of poisoning.

Operator: And what happened when she presented, she just got up and left?

Dr Webster: No, she... there was time for a nurse to commence observations and I was managing the critically unwell patients and I had a brief chat to her about where the mushrooms were obtained and after that, while I was attending the other patients, the nurse had informed me she had discharged herself against advice. So I don't know, hang on we have the forms here, no it doesnt have the time she left at, she was only here for five minutes.

Operator: Is this her home address?

Dr Webster: Yes, [REDACTED] Gibson Street is her home address

Operator: Just to clarify, there were four other people who ate the same meal, is that correct?

Dr Webster: Yes, so the meal was consumed by five people and four of those people ate now hospitalised and Erin presented this morning?

*Redacted details about hospital contact numbers*

Dr Webster: All the patients are now at Dandenong Hospital

Operator: I'll let the police be notified, [REDACTED] Gibson St, Leongatha. Would you like to be notified with an outcome?

Webster: Yes, I'd be happy for them to contact me anytime on the mobile number.
Disturbing clues allegedly uncovered at Christian Brueckner's abandoned lair in Germany have intensified the investigation into the disappearance of Madeleine McCann - with prosecutors sure the youngster is dead.

Madeleine was three when she vanished from the Portuguese resort of Praia da Luz on May 3, 2007. Brueckner, a German paedophile, has been a prime suspect in her disappearance for years.

A bombshell cache of horrifying documents, pictures, children's swimming costumes and toys was reportedly uncovered at a former box-making factory he bought in 2008, a year after the British girl was last seen.

Among the disturbing finds was a hard drive of images that police are said to have kept secret - but are reportedly thought to uphold investigators' long-held belief that Madeleine was killed.

Police reportedly later found an insurance document that is said corroborate an informant's account that he allegedly confessed to her murder in Spain in 2008.

The materials found by police, revealed in a Sun investigation to be broadcast on Channel 4 on Wednesday night, shed new light on Brueckner's disturbing obsession with children and his potential involvement in the case.

Last year, Brueckner was cleared of unrelated sex attacks in the same area Madeleine vanished from.

But in 2016, police searching a factory owned under his name in Neuwegersleben, central Germany, uncovered what was previously reported to be some 8,000 pieces of disturbing material, alleged to include videos and pictures of suspected crimes.

Prime suspect Christian Brueckner arrives in court in Braunschweig, Germany, in October

Madeleine McCann (pictured) went missing on May 3, 2007, aged three. She has never been found

A metal suitcase discovered by German police in 2016. It reportedly contained photos of girls

Among the materials reportedly found was a hard drive containing photographs believed to be taken in Portugal, thought to be crucial in persuading investigators that Madeleine died shortly after her disappearance in May 2007.

A laptop was also handed to police, the Sun reported, thought to contain vital information linking Brueckner to the case.

Police are also said to have discovered a stash of USB sticks and memory cards buried beneath the body of Brueckner's dead dog, which was buried at the disused factory.

The storage devices are alleged to have contained thousands of files, including images of child abuse, stories detailing fantasies of abducting young girls, and records of Skype chats with other paedophiles.

One story reported by The Sun described drugging a mother and daughter outside a pre-school and abusing a four-year-old blonde girl.

These materials are believed to be among the cache that led investigators to believe that Brueckner was involved in Madeleine's disappearance and death.

Further searches of the compound are reported to have revealed over 75 children's swimming costumes, toys, small bikes, and masks.

Three unlicensed firearms and ammunition were also said to have been found, along with bottles of substances suspected to be chloroform or ether - chemicals that can cause unconsciousness.

The Sun also reported that a satellite navigation device seized by police traced Brueckner's movements in the Algarve, including the Arade Dam, approximately 35 miles from where Madeleine vanished in Praia da Luz.

Pictures of Brueckner posing at the dam were also reportedly found - including a bizarre nude selfie in which he had crudely drawn a balaclava-esque mask over his face.

Bottles and substances found inside a Jaguar matching the description of Brueckner's vehicle

Among the items found in the bolthole in Neuwegersleben were 75 child's swimming costumes

This laptop was reported to have been handed to German police and allegedly contains information that could link Brueckner to Madeleine's disappearance

Police recovered three black-market guns and ammunition - alongside bottles of substances suspected to be chloroform or ether, both of which can cause unconsciousness

An insurance document reportedly proves for the first time Brueckner was at a festival in March 2008 where he allegedly all but confessed to killing Madeleine

Police later searched areas around the Arade Dam in 2023, removing materials later sent to German authorities. Two members of the Metropolitan Police also attended the search, according to a Freedom of Information response.

It is unclear whether any of the material found in Portugal two years ago has ultimately yielded fresh evidence of Brueckner's alleged involvement in her disappearance.

However, an insurance claim signed by Brueckner, among the cache reported by the Sun, indicates he was at a festival in Orgiva, Spain, in early 2008, where he allegedly told a friend that Madeleine 'did not scream'.

The insurance document suggests he crashed his Winnebago at a petrol station in the town on March 20 that year. The festival ran from March 21 to 23, according to archive listings.

That claim originated in a letter written by Brueckner wrote from prison after being convicted of rape, revealed by the Mail in 2023, in which he attacked the account of a key informant, Helge Busching.

Busching had told German authorities in 2017 that Brueckner had 'made a comment about the missing girl' at a 'hippy festival' in Spain in 2008 - and later relayed the claims to national tabloid Bild.

He had said: 'Christian asked me if I was still going to Portugal.

'I replied: "I'm no longer going to Portugal because there are too many problems there, Portugal has too many police for me on account of the missing child.

'"It is indeed strange that she disappeared without a trace."

'Christian replied: "Yes, she did not scream."'

Brueckner has described the account as 'not even worthy of comment' and has denied any involvement in Madeleine McCann's disappearance. Questions also remain over Busching's account.

A photograph thought to show Christian Brueckner at the Arade Dam - a key location in the Madeleine McCann investigation which Portuguese police searched in 2023

German police unearthed the disturbing cache of materials at a former box-making factory owned by Bruecker (pictured in 2020)

Plastic boxes, electronics and a bathtub dumped outside Brueckner's run-down bolthole

Police are seen searching areas around the Arade Dam in Portugal in May 2023

A police tent in the Arade Dam area. Materials were sent to German authorities for further analysis but it is not known if any decisive evidence was found

Brueckner is likely to walk free from prison later this year unless prosecutors are able to conclusively charge him

German prosecutors have stated for years that they believe Brueckner is responsible for the youngster's death.

They have previously disclosed that mobile phone location data puts Brueckner in Praia da Luz on the night Madeleine disappeared.

In 2020, German prosecutor Hans Christian Wolters told Australian news programme 60 Minutes, which said 8,000 pieces of evidence had been found at the factory: 'We have strong evidence that Madeleine McCann is dead and that our suspect killed her.

'We don't have the body and no parts of the body, but we have enough evidence to say our suspect killed Madeleine McCann.'

He added at the time that he had written to Madeleine's parents, Kate and Gerry McCann, stating as much.

'The parents have been told the German police have evidence that she is dead but we have not told them the details,' he said.

Despite these findings, German prosecutors have yet to charge Brueckner in connection with Madeleine's disappearance.

Brueckner is currently serving seven years for raping an elderly American woman in the Algarve the year before Madeleine disappeared and he is due to be released later this year.

Prosecutors are seeking a retrial over separate rape claims for which he was acquitted late last year.

If that fails, they will then seek an appeal, but Brueckner's lawyers have told MailOnline it 'only has a ten per cent chance of succeeding'.

Just last month MailOnline revealed that the budget for detectives investigating the disappearance of Madeleine McCann had been slashed.

They have been granted a further 108,000 to carry on the search for her - a drop of 84,000 on the amount awarded last year.

The money was approved in April following a request from the Metropolitan Police's Operation Grange team who were specifically tasked with finding the toddler.

With the latest 108,000 Operation Grange has spent almost 13.5million investigating the case  prompting some to question whether it is viable considering no arrests or charges have been made.

The money comes from a special Home Office fund and is reviewed annually with Operation Grange making a request which is submitted and then considered.

Last week marked the 18th anniversary of her disappearance on May 3, and also her 22nd birthday - but there has been no real breakthrough in the hunt.

Kate and Gerry McCann, Madeleine's parents, hold pyjamas similar to those of their daughter during a press conference in June 2007

Brueckner is serving seven years for raping an elderly American woman in the Algarve the year before Madeleine disappeared

Prosecutors insist Madeleine is dead but are yet to disclose evidence supporting this theory

Police standing outside the Ocean Club hotel village on May 4, 2007, a day after Madeleine was reported missing

Gerry and Kate McCann hold a picture of Madeleine as they make an appeal from the holiday apartment days after she disappeared

In a heart-rending statement, Kate and Gerry McCann restated their unwavering commitment to finding out the truth of what has happened to their daughter.

It read: 'As we arrive at the 18th anniversary of Madeleine's abduction, we'd like to thank our faithful supporters once again for standing by us and never forgetting about Madeleine.

'The years appear to be passing even more quickly and whilst we have no significant news to share, our determination to "leave no stone unturned" is unwavering. We will do our utmost to achieve this.

'May is also the month which includes International Missing Children's Day (25th).

'We continue to remember all missing children and their families, both here in the UK and abroad, thinking especially of all the children displaced from their homes & families in Ukraine and Gaza at this time.

'We're very grateful to the UK charity Missing People for their ongoing, invaluable work, and to all organisations, charities and police forces who remain committed, despite many challenges and limited resources, to finding & bringing home the many missing and abducted children.

'May is also Madeleine's birthday - her 22nd this year. No matter how near or far she is, she continues to be right here with us, every day, but especially on her special day.

'We continue to celebrate her as the very beautiful and unique person she is. We miss her.'
President Donald Trump tried to send illegal immigrants to Ukraine as part of his plan to rid the United States of unwanted criminals.

Ukraine has been gripped by war since the Russian invasion in February, 2022 and does not even have a working airport after they were targeted by repeated airstrikes.

But even that was not enough to deter Trump from asking the country to pitch in and help crack down on America's 'migrant crisis.'

According to The Washington Post, Trump administration officials reached out to Ukraine in late January in an effort to strike a deal over a group of illegal migrants - none of whom were citizens of Ukraine.

The administration had hoped to deport the illegal migrants to war-torn Ukraine.

While it is unclear how Ukrainian officials responded to the request, the nation has not accepted any third-party nationals from the United States.

According to the publication, there is no indication that Kyiv ever seriously considered the proposal.

Two officials even suggested they never even took it to the highest levels of government for consideration, because it was so preposterous.

President Donald Trump tried to send illegal immigrants to Ukraine as part of his plan to rid the United States of unwanted criminals

Ukraine has been gripped by war since the Russian invasion in February, 2022 and does not even have a working airport after they were targeted by repeated airstrikes. Pictured: A damaged aircraft in the destroyed hangar at Antonov International Airport

Pictured: Venezuelan migrants walking off the plane when they arrived back in Venezuela after being deported

Trump and Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelensky have had a strained relationship since Trump's return to the White House.

Tensions between the pair exploded in February, when a meeting in the Oval Office between the pair descended into a shouting match as Trump threatened to abandon Ukraine completely if Zelensky did not agree to his peace terms. He also accused Zelensky of not being grateful.

Now, it's been revealed that Ukrainian officials had rejected Trump's migrant request just weeks before that confrontation.

But since then, they've been able to strike a deal which will provide the US privileged access to new investment projects to develop Ukraine's natural resources, including aluminum, graphite, oil and natural gas.

It was signed after a weeks-long push by Trump for Ukraine to compensate Washington for billions in military and economic assistance to help Ukraine repel the Russian invasion.

It appears the Trump administration was 'ringing around' in order to find a country to agree to take third-party nationals.

Ultimately, officials struck a deal with El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele, who agreed to accept foreign criminals and house them in his hellish CECOT prison.

As seen in video from the Salvadoran government, more than 130 suspected gang members who were illegally living in the United States were transported by bus to the maximum security prison, changed into the prison's standard white T-shirts and shorts and had their heads shaven.

Trump and Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelensky have had a strained relationship since Trump's return to the White House

Ukraine has been gripped by war since Russia invaded in February 2022

Ukraine's airports are closed and most have been significantly damaged by airstrikes

They were walked by guards into a cell block and some were made to kneel upon the floor with their wrists cuffed behind their backs and ankles shackled.

At the prison, the suspected gang members spend 23 and a half hours locked in overcrowded cells, with just 30 minutes to stretch - chained in the middle of the hallway.

Jail cells with steel bars are split among the eight cell blocks and can hold up to 100 detainees.

Each cell comes equipped with 80 bare iron bunks - mattresses are not included - along with two toilets and two sinks.

Dubbed a 'black hole of human rights' and a 'hellhole' by critics, the facility has drawn widespread condemnation for allegedly ignoring international prisoner rights.

Prior to that agreement, it is understood Trump had considered Costa Rica, Mexico and Panama for his ambitious plan.

Trump invoked the wartime Alien Enemies Act to facilitate the deportations, which have sparked ongoing legal battles all the way up to the Supreme Court.

He this week revealed plans to reopen Alcatraz in order to work around the tedious court procedures.
Brits have been warned against travelling to parts of India and Pakistan following an exchange of fire between the two countries amidst rising tensions.

Airlines have cancelled or rerouted a number of flights in the wake of India firing missiles across the border into Pakistani-controlled territory in at least six locations.

The strikes, which India claimed were targeting infrastructure used by militants, have reportedly killed eight people and injured 35 others, according to Pakistani security officials.

It comes amid soaring tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors over last month's militant attack on tourists in the Indian-controlled portion of Kashmir.

The missiles struck locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and in the country's eastern Punjab province early Wednesday, according to three Pakistani security officials.

CNN reported three of the targeted locations  Kotli, Muzaffarabad and Bagh - are in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Updated travel advice from the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) was issued for both countries shortly before 12.30am on Wednesday, May 7.

It advised against all travel within 10 kilometres of the India-Pakistan border, 10 miles of the Line of Control and the Balochistan province of Pakistan.

The strikes came amid soaring tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors over last month's militant attack on tourists in the Indian-controlled portion of Kashmir

No military facilities were targeted in the strikes

India fired missiles across the border into nine Pakistani 'terror camps' in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir early Wednesday

A statement said: 'On the night of 6 May (UK Time), the Indian Ministry of Defence stated it had struck nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

'In response, there are reports of Pakistani artillery fire across the Line of Control. 'On the night of 6 May (UK Time) Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority indicated that it was closing Pakistan airspace for at least 48 hours.

'There are reports of flights being diverted. British nationals should contact their airline for up-to-date information.

'We are continuing to monitor the situation closely. British nationals should stay up to date with our travel advice and follow the advice of local authorities.'

Meanwhile, the update for India says: 'On the night of 6 May (UK Time), the Indian Ministry of Defence stated it had stuck nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

'In response, there are reports of Pakistani artillery fire across the Line of Control. We are continuing to monitor the situation closely.

'British nationals should stay up to date with our travel advice and follow the advice of local authorities.'

Airlines including Air France, Lufthansa, British Airways, Swiss International Air Lines, Air India and Emirates are reported to be taking alternate routes.

A city view of Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-administrated Kashmir, May 7, 2025

A flare goes up in air over the hill near main town of Poonch district

Tensions have mounted between the two countries over last month's militant attack on tourists in the Indian-controlled portion of Kashmir.

India blamed Pakistan for backing the attack, which Islamabad has denied.

Scotland's First Minister John Swinney and Labour MP Stella Creasy said they were 'deeply' concerned by the escalation in violence while former Tory minister Lord Ahmad warned the 'potential for war tonight is real'.

Mr Swinney said on Tuesday evening: 'I am deeply concerned by the events in Kashmir tonight and urge calm and dialogue to avoid further conflict.'

Ms Creasy, MP for Walthamstow, warned the 'world cannot stand by' as the conflict spirals and the risk of harm to civilians in the region increases.

'Deeply concerning to see military air strikes in Jammu Kashmir tonight by the Indian Government,' she said.

'Restraint by all concerned must be sought and secured.'

Lord Ahmad, who served as South Asia minister under the previous Conservative administration, said the missile strikes were an 'alarming escalation'.

Local residents and members of the media examine a building damaged by a suspected Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan controlled Kashmir, in Wednesday, May 7

Security force officials and media gather outside a damaged building from a suspected Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan controlled Kashmir, in Wednesday, May 7, 2025

'The potential of a war tonight is real - we need urgent international engagement to prevent a widening of this conflict which carries serious implications not just for the region but for the wider world,' he said.

MP for Coventry South Zarah Sultana, who sits as an Independent following her suspension from Labour after she voted to back scrapping the two-child benefit cap, accused New Delhi of violating international law.

She said in a post on social media: 'I condemn the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam - but no conclusive evidence has been presented linking Pakistan.

'India's unprovoked strike on Pakistan is a violation of international law. With both being nuclear powers, this is reckless & a grave threat to regional peace.'

The missiles early on Wednesday struck locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and in the country's eastern Punjab province, according to officials.

Pakistan's military spokesperson Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif said India launched attacks on six different locations, killing eight people and injuring 38 others.

A mosque was hit in the city of Bahawalpur, where a child was killed and a woman and a man were injured, an official said.

State-run Pakistan Television, quoting security officials, said the country's air force shot down two Indian jets in retaliation but provided no additional detail.

People watch a flag of India burn during a protest after India launched missile strikes in Pakistan, in Hyderabad, Pakistan

People shout anti-India slogans during a protest after India launched missile strikes in Pakistan

Pakistan's Foreign Affairs Ministry said Indian forces had launched the strikes while staying in Indian airspace. Other locations hit were near Muridke in Punjab and Kotli in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir.

India's Defence Ministry said in a statement that at least nine sites were targeted 'where terrorist attacks against India have been planned'.

'Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistan military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution.

'We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable.'

The Indian army wrote on X: 'Justice is served.'

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the 'deceitful enemy has carried out cowardly attacks at five locations in Pakistan' and that his country would retaliate.

'Pakistan has every right to give a robust response to this act of war imposed by India, and a strong response is indeed being given,' he said.

He added that his country and its forces 'know very well how to deal with the enemy. We will never let the enemy succeed in its nefarious objectives'.

Waqar Noor, the interior minister in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, said at least one child was killed in the Indian attack and that several missiles landed at two locations, with the civilian population targeted.
NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb will resign from her role within weeks after three years as the state's top cop.

The commissioner will officially stand down on September 30 following speculation in January her tenure would end in 2025.

Ms Webb was being paid an eye-watering $679,050 in 2023, but this figure is expected to be even higher two years later.

Opposition leader Mark Speakman thanked Ms Webb for her 'long and loyal service' to the police force following the revelations on Wednesday.

'The Minns Labor Government must now move quickly to confirm who will lead the force. Our police do an extraordinary job and deserve strong, steady leadership,' he told the Daily Telegraph.

Her rumoured resignation comes the top cop was criticised for her handling of a series of high-profile cases, most recently the death of 19-year-old Audrey Griffin.

Ms Griffin was found dead at Erina Creek on the Central Coast on March 22 following a night out celebrating with friends at Gosford Hotel. An initial autopsy indicated the talented athlete had drowned.

Ms Webb defended detectives after the teenager's mother, Kathleen Kirby, revealed she had pleaded with them to make her daughter's murder a priority.

Ms Kirby and Audrey's father, Trevor Griffith, pushed for further investigations and begged to be shown CCTV footage of Audrey the night she vanished - which later revealed a man appearing to follow the teenager as she walked home.

NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb (pictured) is expected to resign from her role within weeks after three years as top cop

Ms Webb defended detectives after Audrey Griffin's mother, Kathleen Kirby, and father, Trevor Griffin, revealed they pleaded with police to prioritise her murder (the couple are pictured)

Audrey Griffin is pictured with her mother Kathleen Kirby before her murder on March 22

A CCTV image was then released more than three weeks after Audrey's body had been found, prompting a woman to contact police and tell them the man looked like her ex-husband who had threatened her on the night the teen died.

Adrian Noel Torrens, 53, was then arrested and charged with murder following police catching him confessing to the murder while under surveillance. Days later he took his own life in Silverwater jail.

Commissioner Karen Webb said on 60 Minutes on Sunday night that initial confusion over the cause of Audrey's death was due to a lack of evidence.

She acknowledged police had mistakenly ruled Ms Griffin's death as 'misadventure' before her mother pleaded with officers to review the security footage. 'That was based on the medical advice,' Ms Webb said.

The commissioner insisted officers had a 'cop instinct' and doggedly kept pursuing the case despite Ms Kirby having to push for the CCTV to be reviewed.

NSW's homicide squad detectives also remained sidelined from the case for a number of weeks, despite consultation from local detectives.

Asked whether the case could have been better handled, Ms Webb said: 'Could this be better, more perfect? Yes. But, did we catch a killer? Yes.'

Ms Webb also came under fire after it was revealed Torrens had been handed a Community Corrections Order in lieu of a jail sentence after he breached an AVO.

Commissioner Webb (pictured) has been criticised for her handling of a series of high-profile cases in the state, most recently the death of 19-year-old Audrey Griffin

The commissioner (pictured in 2017) is reportedly planning to quit on May 18 following speculation in January her tenure as commissioner would end in 2025

'I can say as the police commissioner, I'm certainly frustrated because a get out of jail free card is no the answer for people like Torrens,' she told 60 Minutes.

'We wouldn't be in this position, I wouldn't be having this conversation with you, Audrey wouldn't be dead if he had have been held in custody.

'He should have been locked up. A Community Corrections Order for someone who has a violent history is no answer.'

Ms Webb was also criticised for her approach to the alleged murders of Jesse Baird, 26, and Luke Davies, 29, following their deaths in Baird's Sydney townhouse in February 19, 2024.

Former police officer Beaumont Lamarre-Condon, 28, remains behind bars charged with two counts of murder of Baird, his former lover, and his new boyfriend.

Australians reacted with outrage after it was revealed the men were shot dead with Lamarre-Condon's police-issued Glock.

Ms Webb called for an immediate review of the issue, storage and movement of firearms in the police force and in November announced new gun handling laws.

But she was also accused of going into hiding in the days after the double shooting and for saying she was 'grateful' to Lamarre-Condon for cooperating with police.

Sunrise host Nat Barr confronted Karen Webb following the alleged double murder of Jesse Baird and Luke Davies at Baird's Sydney home in February 2024

Luke Davies (left) and Jesse Baird (right) were allegedly murdered by a police officer in 2024

Great-grandmother Clare Nowland is pictured after a skydive in Canberra

When confronted about the accusations by Sunrise host Natalie Barr, Ms Webb referenced a Taylor Swift lyric as she replied: 'There will always be haters. Haters like to hate. Isn't that what Taylor says?'

Host Matt Shirvington told the commissioner: 'You have been criticised for your lack of public presence in regards to this matter. Only really heard from you three days after the fact. Why was that the case?'

'I have been out and about at other things, I have a big organisation, and a $5billion budget running 22,000 people,' Ms Webb shot back.

'The good thing about being the commissioner and the leader is having great people around you. I have got a great executive. I have a great team. And they all have a role to play. I let them do their job and they do it well.'

Ms Webb also came under fire for her response to the death of 95-year-old Clare Nowland after she was Tasered by former detective Kristian White at her retirement home in Cooma, in the state's southeast.

The great-grandmother who suffered dementia and weighed 47kg, fell back and hit her head. She died 'peacefully' in hospital a week later.

Ms Webb provoked fury after she told a press conference just days later it was 'not necessary' to view body cam footage of the incident.

'I don't really intend to, no,' she told reporters. 'I have heard what is in the body worn, and I don't see it necessary that I actually view it.'

Ms Webb is currently under investigation by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC) for lavishing thousands of taxpayer dollars on bottles of gin which was handed out as gifts.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon sent a threatening letter to Harvard that was widely mocked for its embarrassing grammatical errors.

McMahon sent the letter to Harvard's president Dr. Alan Garber on Monday warning the school will not receive money from the federal government until they fall in line with Trump's demands.

But the letter was lambasted by social media critics who noticed a slew of mistakes made by the woman in charge of helping dismantle the Education Department.

Harvard even edited the letter professor-style and sent it back to McMahon with the errors noted in red pen, according to a few posts made to X with a picture of the marked-up three pages.

'Harvard is engaging in a systemic (sic) pattern of violating federal law,' McMahon wrote in her letter, which both the university and others who edited the letter noted was likely meant to say 'systematic.'

'Where do many of these 'students' come from, who are they, how do they get into Harvard, or even into our countryand why is there so much HATE?' Secretary McMahon continued in the opening paragraph.

Education Secretary Linda McMahon was excoriated on social media when critics marked-up and red-lined her mistake-ridden letter to Harvard

A few different versions began circulating social media with professor-style red pen editing of McMahon's letter to Harvard threatening to pull federal grants

The notes call out randomly capitalized letters, run-on and incomplete sentences and even improper use of words and punctuation

The letter goes on to mock Harvard's educational standards, despite McMahon's own mistakes. She goes after the Ivy League for the teaching of 'remedial math' and calls attention to plagiarism scandals at the school.

White House correspondent Andrew Feinberg with the Independent wrote on X of the letter: 'Whoever wrote this is barely literate.'

Another reporter questioned if it was written by Artificial Intelligence (AI).

An official previewed the action on a Monday night call before McMahon posted the letter on social media.

'For Harvard to become eligible for those competitions again, it would have to enter into a negotiation with the government to satisfy what the government says is in compliance with all federal laws,' the official said.

Research grants would be impacted by this action - but not federal student aid, which funnels through universities before going to students and providing them with financial relief.

Social media users said that Harvard 'won' this round of the war with the administration because of the numerous mistakes in the letter.

Right off the bat, McMahon wrote 'Federal Government,' which critics said was improper because she capitalized the letters 'F' and 'G' when it is not a proper noun.

One version, social media users claim, was marked-up and sent back to McMahon by Harvard  leading them to dub the Ivy League the winner of this round of the war with the Trump administration

The other mark-ups include noting run-on and incomplete sentences, inconsistent tensing and randomly capitalized words.

Trump has voiced displeasure with universities allowing pro-Palestinian demonstrations to run amok on campuses.

Officials within the president's team have also taken issue with what they consider to be lack of diversity in higher education - with too few conservatives on staff.

'They have become monolithically leftist and that DEI ideology connects to the anti-Semitism problem because they're teaching young people to make snap judgments about each other based on identity and skin color,' the senior official said.

The latest move represents a major escalation in a months-long war against the prominent institution.

Trump previously froze $2.2 billion in federal grants to Harvard and said he's looking into stripping the Ivy of its tax-exempt status.

A Department of Education official said in Monday's call that Harvard's endowment is 'virtually untaxed' and 'massive.'

'It's larger than the GDP of many countries and it was only possible for them to amass that thanks to the blessings of this country that they do business in,' the official said.

Garber has previously said he won't bend to the government.

The university sued last month to overturn the funding freeze, pushing back against the government's 'sweeping and intrusive demands.'

In the letter, released on White House officials' social media accounts, McMahon said that receiving taxpayer funds was a 'privilege, not a right' and claimed that Harvard was breaking federal law.

The letter started out by focusing on the immigration status of students - likely those involved in the pro-Palestinian demonstrations - with McMahon saying they were engaged in 'violent behavior.'
A driver who won a $150,000 4WD in a giveaway has been forced to watch their prize go up in flames after it caught fire on a beach.

The Toyota GR 300 Series Land Cruiser was part of a convoy exploring the coastal track at Stockton Beach in Port Stephens, NSW, in mid-April.

Moments later, a nearby beach-goer captured the vehicle on camera being engulfed by flames and stranded in the sand.

The 4WD, estimated to be worth around $150,000, was the first prize given away in a 2023 competition that had been run by Motor Culture Australia.

The footage was shared to TikTok and showed only a smouldering frame of the vehicle remained.

'Imagine winning a brand new 300 Series Land Cruiser worth $150k... and this is how it ends,' the caption read.

A Motor Culture Australia spokeswoman told Daily Mail Australia they were aware of the incident.

'The safety of our community is our top priority, and we take matters like this incredibly seriously,' she said.

'At this stage, the exact cause of the incident is unknown.

'We have contacted local authorities and have formally reached out to the relevant emergency departments to understand more about what occurred.'

Motor Culture Australia has launched its own investigation into the footage.

Daily Mail Australia contacted Fire and Rescue NSW for comment.

Motor Culture Australia calls itself a 'premier' community for motoring enthusiasts, and was founded in August of 2020 by Tom Mcpherson and Thomas Fu.

Both were just 21 years old at the time.

Members of the organisation have access to discounts, events, meet-ups and a lottery, which offers expensive and luxury vehicles as a prize.

Membership to Motor Culture Australia starts at $10 for a single entry, and goes all the way up to $400 for 200 entries.

Huge smoke was seen billowing from the $150,000 vehicle on Stockton Beach in Port Stephens

Motor Culture Australia's co-founders Thomas Fu (left) & Tom Mcpherson (right)

Motor Culture Australia revealed at the time of the competition they had revamped the car, saying they worked with 'industry experts' to make it 'even better'.

'It features a custom Meredith Metalworks exhaust and stainless steel snorkel, as well as Superior Engineering mods, Offroad Animal bull bar and light bar, and Method Racing Wheels,' they added.
President Donald Trump is expected to announce that he's renaming another body of water during his whirlwind trip next week to the Middle East.

The Associated Press reported Tuesday night that Trump will put his finger on the scale and say that the U.S. will now refer to the Persian Gulf as the Arabian Gulf or the Gulf of Arabia.

The body of water is situated between Iran and all three Arab nations that Trump will visit - Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates - in a four-day trip to the region departing from the White House Monday.

While the name 'Persian Gulf' has been around since the 16th century, in modern times many countries in the Middle East have started calling it the Gulf of Arabia or the Arabian Gulf.

They've done so to show their clout over Iran.

This has irritated Iran, formerly called Persia, whose government threatened to sue Google in 2012 over the company's decision not to name the body of water on all of its maps.

Ahead of the Middle East trip, Trump had touted that a major announcement was coming.

'We're going to have a very, very big announcement to make. Like, as big as it gets, and I won't tell you on what,' the president said Tuesday during an Oval Office Q&A alongside Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.

President Donald Trump is expected to put his finger on the scale and announce that the U.S. would officially call the Persian Gulf the Gulf of Arabia or the Arabian Gulf, to be more in line with the three Arab nations that he will visit next week

On his first day in office, President Donald Trump announced that the Gulf of Mexico would be renamed the 'Gulf of America,' which set off a battle with the Associated Press, which has an influential style guide used by journalists around the world

'And it's very positive. It'll be one of the most important announcement that have been made in years about a certain subject,' the president teased.

It's unclear if the naming announcement was what he was referring to.

The U.S. military was already using Arabian Gulf in statements and photos.

Experts DailyMail.com spoke to ahead of the trip floated that Trump's big announcement was likely how much the Saudis would invest in the U.S.

The Arabian Gulf announcement will come as the U.S. has reinitiated talks with Iran after Trump scrapped the Obama-era nuclear deal during his first term.

Another round of nuclear talks are expected to take place in Oman this weekend.

Trump has made it clear that Iran absolutely cannot have a nuclear weapon.

'I want Iran to be really successful, really great, really fantastic,' he said during Sunday's Meet the Press interview. 'The only thing they can't have is a nuclear weapon. If they want to be successful, that's OK. I want them to be successful.'

The 'Gulf of Arabia' seen from the beaches of Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, one of the three Arab nations President Donald Trump will visit in a whirlwind trip next week

'I just don't want them to have a nuclear weapon because the world will be destroyed,' the president added.

It wasn't immediately clear if the renaming of the Persian Gulf would interfere with those plans.

One of his opening acts on January 20th, inauguration day, was to proclaim that the Gulf of Mexico would be renamed the 'Gulf of America.'

When the Associated Press refused to change the Gulf's name in their influencial style guide, Trump pushed the wire service's reporters and photographers out of the press 'pool,' the group of journalists allowed into tight spaces including the Oval Office and on Air Force One.

The White House and the AP are still involved in litigation over the matter.
Peter Dutton may have been resoundingly booted from federal politics on Saturday night, but after nearly 24 years in Canberra, he won't be leaving empty handed.

Thanks to a now-repealed parliamentary pension scheme, the former member for Dickson will receive an estimated annual pension of $258,000 for the rest of his life.

The figure, calculated by Crikey, is derived as a percentage of Mr Dutton's overall pay as Opposition Leader.

While significantly lower than the $432,280 he took home for three years as Coalition chief, he will continue to out-earn sitting backbenchers on $233,660 a year.

Put differently, the ousted MP will earn the incomes of roughly two-and-a-half Australian salary earners without even lifting a finger.

Alternatively, Mr Dutton may choose to halve his pension in exchange for a $2.58million lump sum payout which, together with his sizeable real estate dealings, would set the Queenslander up nicely for a comfortable retirement.

Of course, he may choose instead to leverage his public profile for an even softer landing in the private sector a la Christopher Pyne or Scott Morrison.

Former prime minister John Howard did away with the pension scheme in 2004 following the lead of then-Labor leader Mark Latham.

Outgoing MP Peter Dutton is pictured at Canberra Airport on Wednesday morning, returning to the nation's capital for the first time since the federal election on Saturday

Anthony Albanese is among those politicians entitled to a more generous pre-2004 pension

The decision was hotly contested within the party room walls, not least because MPs feared the optics suggested Mr Howard had caved to pressure from Labor.

Federal politicians elected at or since the 2004 election are entitled to superannuation entitlements in line with those available to average Australians - set at 11.5 per cent.

The merits of the decision has been the subject of fierce debate, with critics claiming outgoing MPs have the advantage of the 'revolving door' after leaving public service.

With Dutton ousted, only six sitting MPs and senators will have access to the more generous pension entitlements, having been elected pre-2004.

Among them are Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, incumbent Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Senator Bob Katter and Labor frontbencher Tanya Plibersek.

Mr Albanese will expect the most generous post-parliamentary pay package worth somewhere north of $250,000 per year.

According to the Department of Finance, taxpayers continue to support over 400 retired politicians and spouses under the now-defunct pension scheme at an annual cost of roughly $50million.

While the pool of recipients continues to shrink year-on-year, the last of the pension payouts is not expected to come until 2063.
William Shatner will boldly go to Donald Trump to make a counter offer after the president's repeated called to make Canada the 51st state.

The Canadian-born actor was invited onto Jesse Watters Primetime Tuesday night to discuss Trump's Oval Office meeting with new Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, when the president doubled down on his desire to annex the northern country.

Speaking to the Fox News host about Trump's proposal, Shatner suggested Carney should make 'a counter offer.

'Let's offer Canada to the United States to be the 11th province,' he joked, sending Watters roaring with laughter.

'It's the best thing,' the Star Trek star continued. 'Here you have a friendly group of people saying "Come on over. It's cleaner, there's plenty of power, there's some lovely people who want to work with you. Be our 11th province."'

Shatner went on to note that 'everyone is so serious about what is an unserious offer,' noting that Canada has been an independent nation for more than 150 years.

He also called Trump's calls for Canada to be annexed 'denigrating.'

But he is not the only one, with Carney admonishing the president inside the Oval Office and telling him that Canada is 'not for sale.'

Canadian-born actor William Shatner discussed President Donald Trump's calls to make Canada the 51st state on Jesse Watters Primetime Tuesday night

Speaking to the Fox News host about Trump's proposal, Shatner suggested Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney should make 'a counter offer'

He also called Trump's repeated calls for the country to be annexed 'denigrating'

Meanwhile, over on MSNBC, host Katy Tur seemed to suggest the United States could go to war with its northern neighbor in a matter of days.

She was speaking with Canadian journalist Stephen Marche, who recently wrote an article for The Atlantic evoking an armed conflict between the two nations.

'Just the very fact that it was published, I think is surprising - that we can have a conversation that is serious about what a war with Canada would look like. Explain why it's no longer unthinkable,' Tur pressed the journalist on her show Tuesday.

Marche replied by blaming the rhetoric of President Trump for egging on a potential military battle between the longstanding allies.

'I mean, he talks about annexing us on a regular basis,' he said.

'I mean somewhere around two percent of the American population actually wants to do this, but you know at this point in history, you know, the American people can obviously be convinced of anything right?' Marche argued.

'And already, you see numbers of Republicans who consider Canada an enemy to be growing...

'And you know, I think when countries are in constitutional crisis and when their legal systems start to fall apart, violence against neighboring countries is a very common - to me, it's very intimately tied with this talk about being a third-term president,' the journalist continued.

'That's exactly, that's out of the playbook of authoritarian governments around the world.

The discussion came as Trump met with Carney inside the White House

'And so Canada really does need to think about protecting ourselves from the United States and making sure that we're not just a snack,' he argued.

Marche made similar arguments in his piece for The Atlantic, which was published over the weekend - just ahead of Trump's meeting with the new Canadian Prime Minister.

'Donald Trump's pointless and malicious trade war has been, by his own account, a prelude to softening up Canada economically so that it can be appropriated as the 51st state,' the journalist wrote. 'He has brought up his plans for incorporating Canada into the union with Prime Ministers Justin Trudeau and Mark Carney in private calls.

'Canada could no longer comfortably sit within the American military sphere,' Marche declared. 'In this stark moment, our nation has abruptly become an adversary of the most powerful country in the world.'

He goes on to argue that Canada would not be seized easily, and weighs the possibility of an armed conflict.

Ultimately, Marche concludes: 'If Trump decides to run again, a manufactured emergency over Canada would be a convenient excuse for overturning the constitutional barriers.

'Nobody wants to believe that a continental conflict could happen,' he continues, noting, 'Very few Ukrainians, right up to the point of Russia's 2022 invasion, believed their malignant neighbor would invade.

'Canada cannot afford complacency,' Marche wrote.
Residents in Tennessee have been left struggling to breathe over Elon Musk's supercomputers as pollution is believed to have caused a surge in asthma.

Musk's artificial intelligence company set up shop in South Memphis last year but the supercomputer's pollution control measures don't meet federal guidance.

The area now leads the state in the most emergency room visits for asthma.

The company has no Clean Air Act permits, Politico reported, and none of the 35 methane gas turbines that help power xAI's supercomputer are equipped with federally-required pollution controls.

Now, the surrounding residents lead the state of Tennessee with the most emergency visits for asthma-related symptoms.

In 2024, Memphis was found to be the asthma capital of the nation by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

In the short eleven months that Musk's supercomputer has been running in the area, the company has championed as one of Shelby County's largest emitters of nitrogen oxide, according to the outlet.

The area was already suffering from unhealthy air quality due to smog, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Musk's plant turbines spew an estimated 1,200 to 2,000 tons of nitrogen oxides, or NOx, further contributing to the smog issue in the area.

Musk's artificial intelligence company set up shop in South Memphis last year but has left residents visiting the emergency room for asthma most often in the state as it's revealed the supercomputer's pollution control measures don't meet federal guidance

In the short eleven months that Musk's supercomputer has been running in the area, the company has championed as one of Shelby County's largest emitters of nitrogen oxide

The company has no Clean Air Act permits, Politico reported, and none of the 35 methane gas turbines that help power xAI's supercomputer are equipped with pollution controls federally required

The estimations, according to the Southern Environmental Law Center, are far higher than that of the gas-fired power plant across the street or the oil refinery nearby, the outlet reported.

Musk said in February that the turbines were a necessary addition for the third version of the AI chatbot.

At the time, he said: 'We have generators on one side of the building, just trailer after trailer of generators until we can get the utility power to come back in.'

Nearby Boxtown, three miles from the plant, is facing enough toxic pollution from xAI and 17 industrial facilities to require registration with the EPA's Toxics Release Inventory.

With the median household income at $36,000, the population face not being able to breathe to stay in their homes.

'I can't breathe at home, it smells like gas outside,' said resident Alexis Humphreys through tears.

'How come I can't breathe at home and y'all get to breathe at home?' she continued, holding up her inhaler at a public hearing on April 25.

At a protest in late April, Rep. Justin Pearson said: 'They put our lungs and our air on the auction block and sold us to the richest man in the world.'

'I can't breathe at home, it smells like gas outside,' said resident Alexis Humphreys through tears. 'How come I can't breathe at home and y'all get to breathe at home?' she continued, holding up her inhaler at a public hearing on April 25

The turbines Musk has implemented are only temporary, but the damage they can do is immense, as xAI's environmental consultant Shannon Lynn said during a webinar that they don't require federal permits for hazardous emissions.

As residential pressure built in January, xAI applied for permits for 15 of its turbines that will allegedly be permanent.

Lynn said, however, that the company will wait until the application process is approved before pollution control is installed on those turbines.

The strategy, former EPA air enforcement director Bruce Buckheit argued, violates the Clean Air Act.

'There needs to be a permit beforehand. You don't just get that first year for free,' he told Politico.

The competitive nature of AI leaves room for a dangerous set of practices to slide across the industry.

Amanda Garcia, senior attorney for the SELC, told the outlet: 'Data centers are a highly competitive space, and other companies are watching what xAI is doing. Right now, what xAI is doing is essentially running a power plant without a permit, and it has a real risk of harming people's health.'

The company's own version of an AI chatbot, Grok, has become famed for its relaxed regulations which allow users more freedom to generate potentially hateful or insensitive images.

The area was already suffering from unhealthy air quality due to smog, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Musk's plant turbines spew an estimated 1,200 to 2,000 tons of nitrogen oxides, or NOx, further contributing to the smog issue in the area

Multiple cases of asthma and cancer in local families are attributed to the air pollution, and many residents are calling the xAI's permits to be denied and the plant shut down

Musk referred to Grok as 'the most fun AI in the world.'

But local residents feel as though their health is suffering the sake of the 'fun' images.

Multiple cases of asthma and cancer in local families are attributed to the air pollution, and many residents are calling the xAI's permits to be denied and the plant shut down.

But Musk's history with environmental disregard has been equally problematic.

Tesla was cited for 33 air quality violations in 2021, SpaceX was fined by Texas after allegedly dumping industrial wastewater without a permit, and The Boring Co. was fined by Texas for failing to get a permit to discharge industrial stormwater.

Now, xAI has also been accused of being deceptive regarding the number of turbines running.

Memphis Light, Gas and Water and chamber officials suggested in the summer of 2024 that Musk's company had 18 turbines of varying sizes - xAI filed for permits for 15 turbines at 16MW each.

At the end of March, environmental groups flew over the facility and took photographs of the turbines. The aerial photos pictured 35 turbines onsite, Politico reported.

Tesla was cited for 33 air quality violations in 2021, SpaceX was fined by Texas after allegedly dumping industrial wastewater without a permit, and The Boring Co. was fined by Texas for failing to get a permit to discharge industrial stormwater

At the end of March, environmental groups flew over the facility and took photographs of the turbines. The aerial photos pictured 35 turbines onsite, Politico reported

However, Memphis Mayor Paul Young said only 15 were actually running and the remainder were backups.

Yet, in late April, the groups flew over the site again with thermal cameras and found 33 turbines were giving off significant heat signals which signify the generation of electricity and pollution.

In a webinar in April, Lynn said xAI did not need air permits for 35 turbines onsite because 'there's rules that say temporary sources can be in place for up to 364 days a year. They are not subject to permitting requirements.'

The loophole, Lynn argued, is that should the permit be approved, seven turbines will remain onsite while the 28 others would be 'temporary' and would be 'slowly' moved out as substations are constructed.

John Walke, a former attorney in EPA's Office of General Counsel who now works for the Natural Resources Defense Council, told the outlet: 'xAI's position is quite suspect - I mean they're huge. The temporary or not temporary argument is irrelevant.'

Yet, the Health Department had a consultation with EPA in August, during which the federal regulator agreed that the turbines do not require permits.

In November, EPA Region 4 Air and Radiation Director Denisse Diaz wrote to the Health Department director that although it was the understanding that 'the turbines are expected to cease operations in the next few months,' a more formal review process was necessary to confirm.

It was also suggested that the county set up air monitoring to confirm the turbines emissions.

The turbines Musk has implemented are only temporary, but the damage they can do is immense, as xAI's environmental consultant Shannon Lynn said during a webinar that they don't require federal permits for hazardous emissions

As Musk continues to grow the company, and Colossus - which added double the number of onsite computer chips - came online in September, he has pushed for more.

In October, xAI asked Memphis Light, Gas and Water to look into the possibility of adding 260 MW through a new substation on another piece of land xAI leased in the area.

But the residents of Boxtown are ready to have clean air again.

Easter Mayo Knox, 74 years old and with chronic obstruction pulmonary disease, lowered her KN95 mask to protect herself from the pollution.

She told the outlet: 'He may be a millionaire, a billionaire - whatever kind of 'aire' he is - but what we need her is clean air.'
Former Qantas CEO Alan Joyce is set to write a memoir, with his agent confirming plans for a book about his career as head of the national carrier.

Mr Joyce's manager Robert Joske confirmed this week that he was talking to publishers about a deal for the airline boss' memoirs.

'There's a lot of interest from publishers,' Mr Joske told The Australian Financial Review.

Mr Joyce was appointed as Qantas' boss in 2008 and led the national carrier until he stepped down in September 2023 - two months shy of his previously announced departure date.

In his 15-year stint as the airline's CEO, Mr Joyce faced intense criticism over the airline's perceive service decline, and was the subject of a number of controversies.

In 2011, Mr Joyce controversially grounded all flights to curb union disputes over power and wages.

The decision was polarising but the vitriol soon turned to admiration as shareholders watched Qantas' price skyrocket from $1.17 in 2014 to $7.34 by the end of 2019.

In 2020, the airline teetered on the brink of collapse after the Australian government banned domestic and international travel during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Former Qantas CEO Alan Joyce is set to write a memoir, with his agent confirming plans for a book about his 15-year stint as head of the national carrier

Mr Joyce used $2.7billion in Australian taxpayer funds - including $900million in JobKeeper payments, cash for repatriation flights and a share of the government's $1.2billion aviation support package - to keep the airline afloat.

Qantas had also illegally sacked 1,700 ground crew and staff during the pandemic period.

In 2022, Qantas rushed its aircrafts back into the air to meet a soaring demand for travel following the Covid-19 pandemic.

While demand for flights was at an all-time high, so was customer dissatisfaction - as it became impossible for passengers to redeem their credits due to an overloaded call centre and mass flight cancellations.

By June the same year, Qantas had cut a further five per cent of capacity on top of the 10 per cent it had already announced - allegedly in response to rising fuel costs.

The airline was then able to inflate ticket prices by more than 40 per cent, recording a $2.5billion profit three months later in September.

Mr Joyce was also accused of playing a central role in preventing Qatar Airways from expanding into Australia, which would have increased competition and kept downward pressure on prices.

The government of Anthony Albanese - who had a close friendship with Mr Joyce - rejected Qatar's 2023 proposal to add an extra 28 Australian routes.

Mr Joyce (pictured in 2023) also faced accusations he influenced the Albanese Government's to reject Qatar Airways' proposal to expand into Australia during his time as CEO

Experts believed Qatar's expansion would have reduced airfares by 40 per cent and could have boosted the country's tourism industry by a whopping $788million.

Mr Albanese and Transport Minister Catherine King had met with Mr Joyce several times in the lead up to Qatar's proposal being blocked.

Mr Albanese denied his personal friendship had influenced the decision which was a boon for Qantas.

The pair's relationship was called into question in the book The Chairman's Lounge, written by former Australian Financial Review columnist Joe Aston in 2024.

The book sold around 60,000 copies and alleges Mr Albanese personally approached Mr Joyce to get dozens of free Qantas flight upgrades.

Mr Albanese has vehemently denied that he had directly contacted the CEO to seek upgrades and said he booked flights using Qantas' booking system.

The AFR also reported that Mr Albanese' son Nathan was given access to Qantas' exclusive Chairman's Lounge while travelling.

Mr Joyce was also the subject of Peter Harbison's 2023 book Alan Joyce & Qantas - where he and most of the airline's executives were interviewed.
NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb will walk away with a generous payout when she retires from her $679,050-a-year job later this year

Ms Webb, 55, will leave the position on September 30, after joining the force in 1987 and taking the top job in Febuary 2022.

Those who joined the NSW Police before April 1988 were recipients of a lucrative arrangement under which their pension was based on the pay they received at their highest rank in their career, not the lower ranks they held on their way up.

For Ms Webb, that means a massive payday - insiders told the Daily Telegraph she's looking at around $380K a year or a lump sum close to $4.75million.

In 2023, she earned $679,050 per year, but that amount has likely increased since then due to indexed pay rises.

Police Minister Yasmin Catley confirmed Commissioner Webb's resignation on Wednesday afternoon.

'I have nothing but heartfelt thanks for her incredible work and admiration for her many significant achievements,' Ms Catley said.

'She has been a force for change and reform focused on the safety and the wellbeing of the New South Wales Police.'

NSW Police commissioner Karen Webb is set to receive up to $4.75 million as a lump sum or around $380K annually, thanks to a legacy police pension scheme.

Commissioner Webb (pictured) has been criticised for her handling of a series of high-profile cases in the state

Ms Webb, the first woman to lead the state's police force, has faced several crises during her short reign.

A debilitating shortage of officers blew out to several thousand unfilled positions before she announced new recruits would be paid to train from late 2023.

Alongside Ms Catley, Ms Webb also penned a massive pay increase of up to 40 per cent in 2024, making rank-and-file officers among the best-paid cops in Australia.

The deal also improved job-sharing arrangements, particularly benefiting parents.

The commissioner was widely criticised for her initial response to the fatal tasering of 95-year-old Clare Nowland in 2023 in Cooma in southern NSW.

A media release from her office in the wake of the tragic incident did not mention that a Taser was used and simply said Ms Nowland had 'sustained injuries during an interaction with police'.

She also raised eyebrows in 2024 when invoking the Taylor Swift song lyric, saying 'haters are gonna hate', after being asked about the shooting deaths of two men, allegedly by serving police officer Beau Lamarre-Condon.

Accused killer cop Beau Lamarre-Condon

She was also accused of going into hiding in the days after the double shooting and for saying she was 'grateful' to Lamarre-Condon for cooperating with police.

Ms Webb also drew scrutiny for going through four media advisors in two years, resulting in $700,000 of public money being spent on termination payments.

The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission also found Ms Webb should have disclosed a friendship with the supplier of 50 bottles of custom-labelled gin she bought with public funds.

The commissioner subsequently banned the practice of using taxpayers' money to purchase alcohol for gifts and hospitality.

Opposition police spokesman Paul Toole said her departure added to a challenging period for the force.

'Right now, frontline officers need certainty and leadership ... they serve our communities with professionalism and deserve the same from those at the top,' he said.

Ms Webb will mark 38 years of service in the coming weeks.

She has agreed to stay on until September 30 while a comprehensive search for her successor is undertaken, Ms Catley said.
Countless fish, bids and rabbits have perished in a suspicious fire that spread to a pet store on a busy shopping strip in Melbourne.

The heartbroken owner of King Pets on Mahoneys Road in Campbellfield, in the city's north, said the fire erupted about 3.45am on Wednesday.

It's suspected a neighbouring dessert and acai shop was the target of the alleged firebombing, but the blaze spread to the pet shop.

It's understood only 20 baby turtles and a handful of fish survived the fire.

'Hundreds of birds have all perished, thousands of fish have also perished, we have also lost rabbits,' the owner told the Herald Sun.

'We are totally devastated and still trying to comprehend what has happened.

'It's still a massive shock. We are heartbroken.'

The fire was finally brought under control by 30 firefighters shortly before 4.30am.

Countless fish, birds and rabbits have perished after a pet store was caught up in an alleged firebombing attack on Mahoneys Road in Campbellfield, north Melbourne (pictured)

Only about 20 baby turtles (pictured) and a handful of fish survived the fire

No one was injured but a smoke warning was issued for the surrounding area.

The organiser of a GoFundMe for King Pets said the building was 'completely destroyed'.

'This isn't just the loss of a shop - it's the loss of a 25-year legacy. A business built with love, care, and tireless effort over decades,' he wrote.

'A place that brought joy to countless families, supported the welfare of animals, and became a trusted part of the community.

'Most importantly, this pet shop supported five local families. Overnight, they've not only lost their workplace - they've lost their livelihood.

'Their ability to provide for their children, pay their bills and keep a roof over their heads is now under serious threat.'

Detective Senior Constable Scott McCowan said the owner was 'distraught'.

'The business owner, as expected, is on scene and is distraught, along with the neighbouring businesses,' he said.

The fire (pictured) was finally brought under control by 30 firefighters shortly before 4.30am

The fires comes amid the destruction of 10 dessert and acai bars in Melbourne - fuelling rumours the city is facing an all-out 'acai war' which followed that seen in Sydney.

An ice cream parlour in Williamstown linked to the Haddara tobacco family and a Springvale acai bar were destroyed by fire just last week.

The acai 'war' in Sydney was addressed by the owners of a popular food truck, Acai World, following its destruction in February.

'This was a targeted attack to burn down a business that was doing well,' Ray Amer, the nephew of the two brothers, who owned the store, explained.

'We've seen the camera footage, there were two people that set the shop on fire, we don't know who did it.'

The owners were adamant their competitors were not responsible.

Anyone who witnessed the firebombing, or has dashcam/CCTV vision or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
The fight for the poisoned chalice of becoming the next Liberal leader is now a two horse race, between deputy leader Sussan Ley and shadow treasurer Angus Taylor.

Who wins might come down to which of the remaining undecided seats Liberals ultimately win. The party room will wait for counting to be finalised before calling for the ballot to enable every new MP to have a say.

In the meantime Ley is acting leader which just might edge her close to victory, using the authority of the role to help with the internal campaign to take over permanently.

So what are the strengths and weakness of both contenders, and who might (or should) they have around them in the new look shadow cabinet?

Sussan Ley:

Sussan Ley is a longtime Liberal frontbencher and one of the frontrunners for the party leadership - a poisoned chalice

Let's start with the elephant in the room: why does she spell her name that way?

Ley changed the spelling of her first name from 'Susan' to 'Sussan' in her 20s after exploring numerology. She believed that adding an extra 's' would make her life 'incredibly exciting' and ensure 'nothing would ever be boring'. That will certainly be true if she takes over the Liberal leadership at such a messy time for the party.

Ley at 63-years-of-age has been in politics since 2001. She served on John Howard's frontbench before the Coalition lost the 2007 election.

She was also a minister in the government's of Tony Abbott, Malcolm Turnbull and Scott Morrison. A qualified commercial pilot Ley also holds two masters, in taxation and accounting, as well as a degree in economics.

Despite these qualifications when elected deputy to Peter Dutton she didn't assume the shadow treasurer's position, ultimately occupied by Taylor.

If Ley does take over she'll need to be more forward with her economic know how, because despite her qualifications colleagues don't see her as proficient in the all important economic space.

The Liberal Parry needs to reclaim its traditional mantle as the preferred economic managers in the eyes of the electorate to be seen as a viable alternative government.

Especially if the Labor Party drifts left under Albo on a second term with the Greens holding the balance of power in the senate.

Ley is arguably a more moderate Liberal than Taylor, but hailing from the bush and representing a regional constituency she's no inner city Liberal. Ley is more earthy than that but will need to find a way to convince voters in the city to return to the Liberal fold. There are very few seats held by the Liberals in the big cities after Saturday night's bloodbath.

One of Ley's clear strengths is that as a woman her elevation will help stave off criticisms that there aren't enough women in parliament on the conservative side of the chamber. Ley has previously expressed support for gender quotas, but that won't help her campaign to be leader. It might, however, help her win back the votes of women who have deserted the party in droves.

Ley's biggest weakness is the perception that she's not up to the job of being leader. Whether that sentiment is unfounded or founded, it's there, among colleagues and the parliamentary press gallery. It increases the degree of difficulty of being taken seriously, but it could also lead to her opponents underestimating her.

Another criticism she's received over the years is that she is a bit loose with her rhetoric. Prone to shooting her mouth off and needing to walk back her commentary. As leader she'll need to be more disciplined than that, and have a good team around her.

Angus Taylor

Angus Taylor is the other big name in contention - above with his wife Louise, a lawyer

A Rhodes scholar from Oxford with a successful career in business Taylor's CV is built for high office. But he has been an under-performer since the moment he was elevated to Cabinet.

As shadow treasurer Taylor was responsible for the Coalition's economic strategy and policies at the election - the only problem being that they really didn't seem to have one.

Yet behind closed doors Taylor is regarded as one of the more able MPs, capable of understanding complex policy challenges presented to him by stakeholders. By rights he should be ready made to rebuild the Liberal Party and make it stand for something. He just hasn't shown that capacity publicly yet.

Taylor's election costings were hopelessly non-existent, and each time he rose to the dispatch box during Question Time in Labor's first term, he fumbled and bumbled and left his colleagues squirming and opponents in laughter.

Like Ley Labor will underestimate him, if he can rise to the challenge.

It is hard to know precisely what it is that's missing in Taylor's performance. Polish perhaps, not that voters are in thrall of modern MPs who are too on script.

But Taylor has the makings of a successful leader, and he's younger enough that a two term strategy is right in his remit, if he can perform.

Whether is a weakness or a strength, Taylor is close to Tony Abbott. That will certainly help him control the conservatives in his ranks, of which he is one.

But Abbott could be considered a feature of the past the Liberal Party of the future needs to leave behind in order to rebuild and appeal to younger voters who Labor overwhelmingly won the support of.

That said, any newly minted opposition leader could do a lot worse than have a mentor like Abbott in their corner if winning from opposition is their goal. But the new leader will also need to unite the party's factions, develop an alternative manifesto and only then be relentlessly on message selling it to the public.

Whoever takes over will need to have a two fold strategy: to survive in a difficult first term when internal backbiting is inevitable, and plan for the longer term future including having a two term election strategy.

They say being opposition leader is the hardest job in politics.

For whoever wins the Liberal leadership in the state the party is now in, that's going to be doubly the case.

Whoever wins, this is what needs to happen:

Irrespective of who wins the Liberal leadership showdown between Ley and Taylor two things need to immediately follow: the party room should elected Dan Tehan or Andrew Hastie as Deputy, and the new leader should appoint Tim Wilson as the shadow treasurer.

Tehan and Hastie would add an important counterweight to the chosen leader. Tehan is a loyalist who would never undermine his leader, the same way he was always loyal to the incumbent PM during the tumultuous Abbott and Turnbull years.

Hastie if chosen would be an important marker to generational change, also bringing WA into the leadership team.

Wilson must be the Coalitions shadow treasurer. He was chair of the House economics committee when in government and knows how to take the fight up to Labor and the teals.

He was the architect of the Coalitions takedown of Bill Shortens franking credits policy in 2019, and his win over Zoe Daniel gives him the know how to help pick up other teal seats next time.

Wilson would drive an alternative economic reform agenda desperately needed. His elevation would also be a sign that Liberals are also taking seriously the task of winning back city seats that were once Liberal heartlands.
ABC presenter Laura Tingle has quit as political reporter for 7.30 and will take up a posting as the national broadcaster's global affairs editor.

Ms Tingle, 64, who joined the ABC in 2018, will travel around the world reporting on big events 'that also shape our nation'.

'The job was advertised, and I applied for it,' Ms Tingle told The Australian.

'Its the best job in journalism, I reckon, other than the one I have already got.

'It's so important that the national public broadcaster has Australian eyes on the world putting the significance of major global events into context for local audiences.'

She replaces John Lyons who who was appointed Americas editor earlier this year.

Her replacement at 7.30 was yet to be announced.

Ms Tingle's 40-year career also includes being political editor of The Australian Financial Review and working for The Australian, The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald.

ABC star Laura Tingle has quit her job as political reporter for 7.30 and will take up a posting as the national broadcaster's global affairs editor (pictured with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese)

Ms Tingle will remain in her role as the staff-elected director on the ABC board, after been elected in 2023. Her term will expire in April 2028.

Last year, she was accused of failing to maintain journalistic impartiality after she accused Opposition leader Peter Dutton of fanning the flames of racism by calling for a reduction in immigration to ease the strain on the housing market.

'It's not just housing,' Mr Dutton said.

'People know that if you move suburbs it's hard to get your kids into school or into childcare.

'It's hard to get into a GP because the doctors have closed their books. It's hard to get elective surgery. These factors have all contributed to capacity constraints because of the lack of planning in the migration program.'

Ms Tingle said Mr Dutton's speech sent a 'terrible chill running through me' because she feared it could encourage people who are anxious about housing to blame migrants.

At the same event she called Australia a racist country.

'We are a racist country, let's face it. We always have been and it's very depressing.'

In a statement, Ms Tingle doubled down on her remarks.

'In my commentary at the ABC, and at the Sydney Writers' Festival, I expressed my concern at the risks involved in Peter Dutton pressing the hot button of housing and linking it to migration for these reasons,' she said.

'Political leaders, by their comments, give licence to others to express opinions they may not otherwise express. That does not make them racist.

'But it has real world implications for many Australians.'

The ABC's news director, Justin Stevens said Tingle was reminded to abide by ABC editorial standards at external events.

'Laura Tingle's remarks at the Sydney Writers' Festival at the weekend lacked the context, balance and supporting information of her work for the ABC and would not have met the ABC's editorial standards,' he said.

'Although the remarks were conversational, and not made in her work capacity, the ABC and its employees have unique obligations in the Australian media.

'Laura has been reminded of their application at external events as well as in her work and I have counselled her over the remarks.'

Tingle has one daughter and was in a relationship with New Zealand-born Hollywood actor Sam Neil for three years from 2018 to 2021.
The internet was sent into a frenzy on Tuesday night, after President Donald Trump teased he would be making an 'earth-shattering' announcement in the coming days.

Many online were left speculating on what the president may have up his sleeve after making the mysterious statement inside the Oval Office as he met with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.

'We have a very big announcement to make,' he declared.

'It's not about trade, it's about something else, but it's going to be a truly earth-shattering and positive development for this country and for the people of this country,' Trump teased.

'And that will take place some time within the next few days.'

It now remains unclear what Trump may be planning to announce, with sources close to the administration even telling the New York Post they weren't even certain about what the president was talking about.

But many online shared their own theories, with one X user writing: 'Trump says an "earth shattering" announcement is coming and it's not about trade. So... aliens?

'Or just another out-of-this world lie to distract from court dates?' she asked, apparently referring to the president's criminal cases.

President Donald Trump teased on Tuesday he would be making a major announcement in the coming days

He told reporters from the Oval Office that the announcement will be 'earth-shattering'

'Either way, beam me outta here,' she concluded.

Another X user invited others to vote on whether the announcement will be the elimination of the federal income tax or just a 'new memecoin.' (As of midnight on the East Coast 'new memecoin' was winning 51.5 percent to 48.5 percent).

A fourth also suggested the announcement will have something to do with Trump's upcoming trip to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar.

'The "earth shattering" announcement will be the addition of Saudi Arabia and Qatar to the Abraham Accords, which would be one of the greatest diplomatic achievements of our lifetimes,' he said of the deal Trump struck in his first term to get the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain to recognize Israel.

Experts DailyMail.com spoke to have also floated that Trump's big announcement was likely how much the Saudis would invest in the U.S.

Others, though, were more pragmatic - with one user simply saying, 'Hopefully the markets will react well to this' after the president's previous announcement about global tariffs sent the world's stock markets plummeting.

Meanwhile, the Associated Press reported Tuesday night that Trump is planning to rename the Persian Gulf - to the Arabian Gulf or the Gulf of Arabia.

The body of water is situated between Iran and all three Arab nations that Trump will visit in his four-day trip to the region departing from the White House Monday.

Many online speculated on what the announcement could be

While the name 'Persian Gulf' has been around since the 16th century, in modern times many countries in the Middle East have started calling it the Gulf of Arabia or the Arabian Gulf.

They've done so to show their clout over Iran.

The US military was also already using Arabian Gulf in statements and photos.

This has irritated Iran, formerly called Persia, whose government threatened to sue Google in 2012 over the company's decision not to name the body of water on all of its maps.
A second multi-million dollar fighter jet has fallen off the USS Harry S. Truman and plummeted into the Red Sea.

A U.S. F-18 fighter jet went overboard on Tuesday after tipping off the flight deck, according to officials.

The two-seater F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11, went off the deck as it was landing around 9:45 p.m. local time and crashed into the sea, sources told NBC News.

The two aviators aboard suffered minor injuries after ejecting from the failed landing, in which the aircraft failed to catch the wire, known as a 'failed arrestment.'

Both members of the crew ejected before the jet plunged into the water and were recovered by a rescue helicopter.

Based on initial reports, the tail hook appeared to fail to hook the wire that slows down the aircraft, which continued to accelerate toward the bow and went into the water, sources told the news outlet.

It is the second time in recent days that the aircrafts, which costs up to $70 million, have been lost in the Red Sea.

Last week, another fighter jet fell overboard from the Truman, which has been aiding U.S. strikes against Yemen's Houthi fighters.

A second multi-million dollar fighter jet has fallen off the USS Harry S. Truman (pictured) and plummeted into the Red Sea

A two-seater F/A-18F Super Hornet (pictured), attached to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11, went off the deck as it was landing around 9:45 p.m. local time and crashed into the sea

On April 28,the jet slipped off the hanger deck of an aircraft carrier deployed to the Middle East, as sailors were towing the aircraft into place in the hangar bay.

A quick-thinking sailor was able to narrowly escape a fighter jet just moments before it fell into the Red Sea.

The unidentified sailor was inside the cockpit of an F/A-18 fighter jet when it slipped off the hanger deck, reported Business Insider.

Navy officials have previously said the move crew 'lost control' of the Super Hornet fighter jet and that one sailor was injured in the incident.

But, a U.S. defense official revealed that the sailor - who was slightly injured - bailed out of the cockpit as soon as it became clear that the fighter jet was going to go overboard.

Yet it remains unclear how much time past between the sailor escaping the plane and it falling into the water.

The defense official noted that it is standard procedure for a sailor to be in the jet's cockpit when the aircraft is being moved in case the crew needs to use the emergency brake or steer.

Fighter jets are routinely towed around the hangar deck to park them where they are needed for any flight operations or other work.

The Truman's deployment has already been extended once by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth by about a month to fight the Yemen-based Houthi rebels

It is unclear whether there will be an effort to recover the jet, which was a part of Strike Fighter Squadron 136. The incident remains under investigation.

The USS Truman has been deployed to the Middle East for months and was recently involved in stepped-up military operations against the Yemen-based Houthi rebels.

U.S. Central Command has said that the military has conducted daily strikes, which have been done by fighter jets, bombers, ships and drones.

The Truman's deployment has already been extended once by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth by about a month.

Last month, US airstrikes in the Yemeni capital of Sanaa killed at least eight people, according to Houthi rebels.
Conservative Catholics from America headed to the Vatican to possibly donate big bucks to the church if cardinals choose 'the right pope' to succeed Pope Francis.

As 133 cardinals who are eligible to vote prepare to take part in the conclave on Wednesday, wealthy MAGA Catholics have descended on Rome to have their say.

It comes just days after President Donald Trump sparked fury by joking that he would 'like to be pope' - only to follow up with an AI generated image of himself in the papal robes.

These conservatives, some of whom are linked to the controversial Project 2025, were making a pilgrimage to Rome to take part in the annual America Week fundraising efforts.

But the timing of the Pope's death meant they were in Rome for the intense pre-conclave period in which electors are intensely lobbied before they head into the Sistine Chapel to make their decision.

They must remain in the chapel cut off from the outside world until the majority agrees on a successor.

About 80 members from the American Papal Foundation traveled to Rome for the 2025 Jubilee Year.

The foundation is led by Trump's favored cardinal, Timothy Dolan.

It comes just days after President Donald Trump sparked fury after joking that he would 'like to be pope' - only to follow his statement up with an AI generated image of himself in the role

As 133 cardinals who are eligible to vote prepare to take part in the conclave on Wednesday, wealthy MAGA Catholics have descended on Rome to have their say

The Archbishop of New York has also spoken highly of Trump, insisting he 'takes his Christian faith seriously.'

During an event held by the foundation, some of the group's wealthy members - who must donate at least $1million in order to gain membership - spoke openly about their preferences for the next pope.

According to the Daily Beast, one guest said: 'This room could raise a billion to help the church, so long as we have the right pope.'

Trump appeared to back New York's Dolan for the role, saying: 'I must say, we have a cardinal that happens to be out of a place called New York who's very good, so we'll see what happens.'

The Catholic Church has historically avoided choosing a pope from any superpower nation - including the United States - to avoid politicizing the role.

Another MAGA-friendly Catholic network known as the Napa Institute also made the pilgrimage to Rome this year, which happened to coincide with the Pope's death.

Members met with American Cardinal James Harvey - who will be voting for the next pope - for a private dinner, according to the New York Times.

Founder Tim Busch had praised Trump for leading 'the most Christian administration' he'd seen in his lifetime.

The Archbishop of New York, Timothy Dolan (pictured) has also spoken highly of Trump, insisting he 'takes his Christian faith seriously'

Following the tragic death of Pope Francis, Catholics descended upon the Vatican to pay their respects

But Trump courted controversy last week when he first joked he would 'like to be pope' and followed it up with an AI-generated image of himself as the Pope, dressed in white and holding his hand up in a blessing.

He and the first lady attended Pope Francis' funeral last weekend.

The New York State Catholic Conference, which represents bishops in the state, was one of the organizations openly criticizing the president.

'There is nothing clever or funny about this image, Mr. President,' the group posted on social media.

'We just buried our beloved Pope Francis and the cardinals are about to enter a solemn conclave to elect a new successor of St. Peter. Do not mock us.'

Trump posted the image to Truth Social on Friday evening, and the White House amplified the post on X shortly after.

The conclave will start behind the closed doors of the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday afternoon, with all cardinals under the age of 80 able to vote on who should be the next leader of the 1.4-billion-member Church

Trump and Pope Francis had an at-times testy relationship

The conclave will start behind the closed doors of the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday afternoon, with all cardinals under the age of 80 able to vote on who should be the next leader of the 1.4-billion-member Church.

They normally reside in the Vatican's Santa Marta guesthouse, which has en-suite bathrooms and hotel-style room service, but with representatives from 70 countries across five continents, this conclave is the largest ever.

As a result, some cardinals will be housed at Santa Marta Vecchia, a building next door usually typically used to accommodate Vatican officials.

The conclave's duration is anyone's guess. Some last a day, others stretch for weeks.

But one thing is certain: the world will know the moment a new Pope is chosen, when a puff of white smoke curls from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, followed by the famous Latin declaration, 'Habemus Papam.'
A mother-of-five who escaped a fatal house fire which killed her young son has been put under police guard as she fights for life in hospital in a critical condition.

The home of Ellouisa Brighton Gibson, 36, and partner Justin Gibson, 34, in Harristown, 130km west of Brisbane, erupted up in flames just after midnight on Wednesday.

Five of the couple's children - aged 4, 7, 11 and 18 - managed to escape with varying injuries.

But a body believed to be of her nine-year-boy was discovered inside during a search of the fire-ravaged property after firefighters managed to quell the blaze.

A formal identification is yet to be completed but Queensland detectives are now probing any history of domestic violence among the residents.

Ms Gibson was airlifted to Royal Brisbane Womens Hospital with serious injuries, while Mr Gibson, 34, was taken to Toowoomba Base Hospital in a stable condition.

A four-year-old girl and seven-year-old girl were airlifted to Queensland Childrens Hospital where they remain in a critical condition.

Her 18-year-old son, Drake, was taken to Toowoomba Base Hospital where he has been treated for non-life threatening injuries. Her 11-year-old son escaped uninjured.

The home of Ellouisa Brighton Gibson, 36, (pictured) and partner Justin Gibson, 34, in Harristown, 130km west of Brisbane , erupted up in flames just after midnight on Wednesday

Five of the couple's children (pictured) - aged 4, 7, 11 and 18 - managed to escape

Firefighters discovered the body of a missing child near the front door after extinguishing a ferocious blaze in Toowoomba

The house remains a crime scene and is currently being forensically examined as part of Operation Xray Paxton with assistance from the homicide investigation unit.

Neighbours smashed windows in an attempt to free the children from the home.

Neighbour Will Cuffe ran to help the family as soon as he saw the fire.

We were awake and heard some loud shouting, so we went to see what was happening and saw a lot of people out on the street, he told The Courier Mail.

We heard the smoke alarms, then saw the smoke and flames. After we saw the smoke, it took about three minutes and the house just went up in flames

We saw the mother, the father and some of the young kids, The mother was holding the kids and taking them to the ambulance

Two of the young kids were walking, but they were really badly burnt. he said. The dad had a cut on his arm.

A witness who phoned Triple-0 said the home was fully engulfed by the time he ended the call to emergency services.

Mother-of-five Ellouisa Brighton Gibson (pictured) has been put under police guard as she fights for life in hospital in a critical condition

Forensic were seen at the Merritt Street home in Harristown

The fire broke out after midnight on Wednesday

Queensland Police have not yet confirmed the body is that of the missing child and are awaiting a post-mortem examination to identify the remains.

'This is a tragic event and we are deeply saddened by this incident,' Detective Inspector Renee Garske told reporters.

'Our hearts go out to the Toowoomba community at this time and the family and friends of the persons involved in this incident.'

A crime scene was declared and homicide detectives were called in.

Det Insp Garske confirmed police will look at any history of domestic violence after reports there was an argument before the fire and the woman allegedly went to a police station on Tuesday.

'We are in the infancy of the investigation, so that will formulate part of our investigation,' she said.

Queensland Fire and Rescue Service station manager Neil Goodman said fire crews located the child's body near the front door.

'Once (crews) could bring the fire under control sufficiently, just near the front door, they located one (deceased person),' Mr Goodman told 7News.

A child has died after a horror fire engulfed a home in Toowoomba overnight

Queensland police were seen at the scene of where the blaze broke out

The familys dog survived the fire and was being cared for by a neighbour.

Mr Goodman said firefighters were greeted with a 'wall of flame and heavy smoke' when they arrived at the scene as the fire mostly impacted the front of the home.

'The guys had quite a difficult time making access and getting in to conduct a primary search,' Mr Goodman said.

After speaking with a family member who was 'hysterical', Mr Goodman advised fire and rescue crews on where they might be able to find the missing child.

'We're all fathers, we've all got children, so its always hard, it's a little bit harder when its sort of similar to your own situation,' Mr Goodman said.

It took about 30 minutes for four fire crews to extinguish the fire.

Anyone who may have information or relevant vision, including CCTV or dashcam footage, is being urged to contact police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) Lifeline 13 11 14
One of Melbourne's oldest pubs may be calling last drinks forever as it faces closure almost two centuries in operation.

The Kingston Hotel on Highett Street in Richmond, Melbourne, has entered administration.

The venue first opened its doors in 1854 and has lived many lives, each playing a vital role in Melbournes social landscape.

In the 1970s, the bar was a key hub in the citys vibrant music scene, and during the 1980s, it briefly operated as a lesbian-run pub - adding another unique chapter to its storied history.

The company where the venue is held, owned by the De Fraga family, was served a wind-up notice by the Australian Taxation Office earlier this year.

The financial collapse follows an ambitious $1.5million renovation, which saw the public bar completely rebuilt.

The redevelopment also included a new restaurant, named Marble & Pearl.

The bar's courtyard was also redesigned by Melbourne architect Jim Fogarty in a 'provincial Tuscan' style.

The future of the Kingston Hotel (pictured) is in doubt, as administrators rush to find a buyer

Renovations on the venue took 14 months to completed, being delayed due to Covid lockdowns in 2021.

Administrators from Cor Cordis are now urgently seeking a buyer to rescue the long-standing establishment.

A Cor Cordis spokesman told the Herald Sun 'a number of interested parties are now undertaking due diligence in relation to the company's affairs and future prospects'.

While the De Fraga family is considering ways to repay creditors, no formal recovery plan has been announced.

'The administrators will continue to fulfil their statutory duties and will keep creditors informed as the administration progresses,' the spokesman added.

It has also been revealed that two other Melbourne venues, also owned by the De Fraga family, have been sold.

The Swan Hotel on Church Street in Richmond, and the nearby Public House have both been sold to Australian Venue Co.

'We can confirm that AVC acquired Public House and the Swan Hotel in Richmond on 22 October 2024,' an Australian Venue Co. spokesman said.

The Swan Hotel (pictured) was in the same holding group as The Kingston Hotel

The Swan Hotel was held in the same entity as the Kingston Hotel, called Trident Star Enterprises, which went into voluntary administration.

Public House meanwhile was owned by Mr De Fraga's company, Public House Consolidated, which has been liquidated.

Public House also underwent expensive renovations in 2020, with the venue being completely overhauled at an estimate cost of $3million.

Australian Venue Co. owns more than 200 bars and clubs across the country.

They made headlines earlier this year after receiving backlash for comments made against Australia Day, which resulted in them releasing a public apology.

Daily Mail Australia contacted Col Colis, Australia Venue Co. and The Richmond for comment.
China has congratulated Anthony Albanese on Labor's decisive election win, signalling it hopes for closer ties with Australia amid a trade war with the United States.

'China stands ready to work with the new Australian government led by Prime Minister Albanese and, under the fundamental guidance provided by the important common understandings between the leaders of the two countries, continue advancing a more mature, stable, and productive comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Australia,' China's foreign ministry said in a statement.

China's ministry added that this would 'benefit both nations and peoples' and contribute to 'peace and stability in the region and beyond.'

China is Australia's largest trading partner, and following the election, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the government's top priority would be protecting Australia from the fallout of the US-China tariff war.

'The immediate focus is on global economic uncertainty, US and China, and what it means for us,' Mr Chalmers said.

'What's happening, particularly between the US and China, does cast a dark shadow over the global economy. We need to have the ability, and we will have the ability, to manage that uncertainty.'

Under the former Morrison government, diplomatic ties with China deteriorated sharply after Australia called for an international investigation into the origins of Covid-19, amid suspicions it leaked from a Wuhan laboratory.

In retaliation, Beijing imposed a range of trade bans on Australian goods, and issued a list of 14 grievances accusing Australia of racism and aligning with a so-called US-led 'anti-China' campaign.

Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese meets China's President Xi Jinping in a bilateral meeting during the 2022 G20 summit in Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia

Since the change of government in 2022, AustraliaChina relations have steadily improved, with many of Chinas trade restrictions on Australian goods now lifted.

China is expected to maintain that momentum and seek more Australian imports due to the now prohibitive costs of American imports due to tariffs.

Despite the recent thaw in relations, military tensions remain between the two nations, with the Albanese government publicly criticising China in February over a live-fire military exercise in the Tasman Sea.

The drills were held in international waters, beneath a busy flight corridor between Australia and New Zealand, forcing 49 commercial aircraft to change course.

While the activity did not breach international law, Mr Albanese and Defence Minister Richard Marles said China failed to provide adequate notice.

'They [China] did so with very little notice and that was the issue that was very disconcerting for the airlines involved,' Mr Marles said.

Chinese defence ministry spokesperson Wu Qian hit back and accused Australia of 'hyping up' the live firing exercises.

'Chinas actions are in full compliance with international law and international practices and will not affect aviation flight safety,' Ms Wu said in a statement.

After the election, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said that the government's top priority would be shielding Australia from the economic impacts of rising trade tensions between the US and China

Three Chinese warships conducted live firing exercises 640km off the New South Wales south coast earlier this year

'Australia, knowing this well, made unreasonable accusations against China and deliberately hyped it up. We are deeply surprised and strongly dissatisfied with this.'

At the time, Anne-Marie Brady, a Mandarin-speaking professor at the University of Canterbury who specialises in Chinese domestic and foreign policy, told Daily Mail Australia that the drills were a warning of China's future intentions.

'The live fire exercises in the Tasman are a shot across the bow to Australia and New Zealand of China's sea power and desire to normalise a permanent presence in the South West Pacific,' Ms Brady said.

'There has been a steady buildup of People's Liberation Army naval capacity across the South West Pacific.'

Donald Rothwell, Professor of International Law at the Australian National University, said China could have easily conducted the exercises in its own waters.

But he warned that the reason China chose this location was 'to project its military force far beyond its own shores'.

'These types of activities are also important intelligence gathering exercises,' he said.

'Each Chinese Navy visit will give it more experience in waters where it does not frequently sail, while also gauging how Australia and New Zealand respond.'

Mr Albanese, Australia's first prime minister to win a second consecutive term in two decades, promised in remarks on Sunday that he would run a disciplined and orderly government, stressing that Australians had voted for unity.

'We will be a disciplined, orderly government in our second term, just like we have been in our first,' Mr Albanese told reporters.

'The Australian people voted for unity rather than division,' Mr Albanese added in brief public comments.

Polls had shown Labor trailing the opposition conservative coalition for nine months until March, amid widespread angst about the government's handling of inflation and consequent rising interest rates and a sharp decline in the value of the Australian dollar.

But the polls flipped when the Liberals unveiled a proposal to slash the federal workforce, which was compared to the Trump administration's moves to cut back government agencies.

A proposal to force federal workers back to the office five days a week was also criticised as unfair to women.

Trump's April 2 tariff announcement added to voters' unease as it sent shockwaves through global markets and raised concerns about the impact on superanuation funds.
Former President Joe Biden has accused Donald Trump of 'modern-day appeasement' in his dealings with the Kremlin in a gaffe-filled and bumbling tirade.

In his first major interview since his unceremonious exit from the White House, the 82-year-old former president dropped several bombshells, including the real reason why he dropped out of the race.

And he certainly didn't shy away from ripping into his successor Trump over his foreign policy.

'What the hell's going on here? What president ever talks like that?' he fired off about Trump's plans to annex Greenland and Canada.

'That's not who we are,' he continued. 'We're about freedom, democracy, opportunity, not about confiscation.'

The ex-president struggled throughout the interview to properly articulate his thoughts, refusing to address Trump by his name.

He also mumbled and took long pauses, sighing heavily and speaking in a whisper at times.

Biden also voiced his worries about relations between US-Europe declining under the Trump administration, as Allied nations marked the 80th anniversary of VE Day this week.

He called it 'foolish' to think Putin would concede if parts of Ukraine were given in a peace deal.

Biden told BBC Radio 4 that he believes the possibility of the post World War II ally-ship breaking down as a 'grave concern,' adding that it 'would change the modern history of the world.'

Former US President Joe Biden has accused Donald of 'modern-day appeasement' in his dealings with the Kremlin,

He also took a swipe at Trump branding his dealings with the Kremlin as 'modern day appeasement', while pointing out that Putin 'can't stand the fact' the Soviet Union has 'collapsed'.

He later quipped: 'That anyone who thinks he is going to stop is just foolish.'

It comes as the US inferred Ukraine should concede parts of the country in order to secure a peace deal with the Kremlin, and should accept Russian control of Crimea - a peninsula annexed by the country in 2014.

Trump told TIME magazine in April: 'Crimea will stay with Russia. Zelensky understands that,' he continued, referring to the Ukrainian president: 'And everybody understands that it's been with them for a long time.'

In an interview with BBC Radio 4 Today, he branded it foolish to think Putin would stop if parts of Ukraine were conceded in a peace deal

Shortly after, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky doubled down on Crimea, rejecting any suggestion Ukraine will hand over the region to the Kremlin

Biden has since said that he couldn't understand why people believed 'dictator' Putin would be satisfied if he is allowed to 'take significant portions of land that aren't his.'

And not only did he express concerns that Europe's confidence in the US and its leadership would decline, he also feared NATO countries bordering Russia would also follow suit in making 'accommodation[s]' to the Kremlin.

He added: 'We [the US] are the only nation in a position to lead the world, otherwise you are going to have China or the Russian Soviet Union stepping up.

'Imagine if there was no NATO, do you think Putin would have stopped at Ukraine? I don't understand how they fail to understand there is strength in alliances. There's benefits. It saves us money overall.'

The former president also critiqued the Trump administration for its conduct with the country's allies, denouncing Trump's statements about making Canada the 51st state as well as acquiring Greenland as a territory.

When pressed about the current President's celebration marking his first 100 days back in the Oval Office, Biden said: 'I'll let history judge that. I don't see anything that was triumphant.'

It comes as an explosive row erupted between Trump and Zelensky in a televised meeting in the Oval Office last February - an incident Biden described as 'beneath America in the way that [it] took place.'

His statement came the same day he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Vatican City while they were both at the funeral for Pope Francis

It was the first time the pair met face to face since their disastrous meeting in February

More recently, Trump accused the Russian despot of 'stringing him along' over Ukraine peace talks - as Trump's fury over Russia's latest deadly missile strikes against Kyiv boiled over.

And in a remarkable warming of relations, the 78-year-old billionaire embraced Ukrainian leader Zelensky during a fleeting meeting in the Vatican ahead of the funeral of the late Pontiff at the end of April.

It was first time the two world leaders spoke to one another face to face since their disastrous White House clash earlier this year, which had threatened to destroy diplomatic relations between the US and Ukraine.

The encounter, which was followed by Trump's furious outburst against Putin, was later celebrated as Pope Francis' last 'miracle'.

'It was also moving to see what they are now calling 'Pope Francis's miracle' with Trump and Zelensky meeting, there's so many things that happened today - it was just overwhelming,' Professor Father Francesco Giordano told Sky News.

Talks between the Ukrainian and American leaders were 'very productive', according to White House communications director Steven Cheung, with Zelensky later taking to X echoing his hopes for 'results' on their discussions.

'Protecting lives of our people. Full and unconditional ceasefire. Reliable and lasting peace that will prevent another war from breaking out,' he wrote: 'Very symbolic meeting that has potential to become historic, if we achieve joint results.'

Trump and Zelensky's meeting on February 28 in the Oval Office did not go as well as their second attempt in Rome on Saturday

Pictured: Young girls crying at a site of a destroyed house following a deadly Russian strike on Thursday

Friends of Danylo Hudya, 17, who was killed in the strike, gather together at the remains of a house

Later, in a furious broadside against Putin, Trump accused the Russian of trying to scupper peace talks with his repeated onslaught against Ukraine.

'There was no reason for Putin to be shooting missiles into civilian areas, cities and towns, over the last few days. It makes me think that maybe he doesn't want to stop the war, he's just tapping me along, and has to be dealt with differently,' the American leader raged in a post on Truth Social today.

Trump - who has since landed back in America with his wife Melania, said the US had to deal 'differently' with the Kremlin' either via 'banking' and 'secondary sanctions.'

'Too many people are dying!!!' he wrote, referring to the Russian military strikes on Kyiv which left 12 dead, and several buildings destroyed.
Prince Harry has praised young people for having an 'honesty about mental health that previous generations struggled to express' as he made his first public appearance since his bombshell interview.

The Duke of Sussex was in Las Vegas yesterday on the day of his son Prince Archie's sixth birthday to launch a new youth initiative with the Diana Award.

Harry told an audience that 'far too many young people are locked out of leadership pipelines because we've failed to build truly inclusive and accessible pathways', also praising them for their 'boldness' and their 'refusal to settle for the status quo'.

He heralded young leaders for standing up for themselves, days after claiming King Charles will not speak to him and he does not know 'how much longer my father has'.

Harry - who has previously spoken at length about his mental health struggles after his mother Princess Diana died - took part in a conversation on stage in the Nevada city with two young people, who are holders of The Legacy Award in her memory.

Las Vegas was famously the destination of Harry's raucous road trip in 2012 which ended with photos emerging of the naked prince after a game of strip billiards.

Some 13 years later, he was back launching the Pledge To Invest drive, which aims to put a spotlight on the future of youth leadership and how businesses can support it.

Yesterday was also the sixth birthday of Harry's son Archie, which his wife Meghan marked with a new photo, and the second anniversary of Charles's coronation .

Prince Harry appears at the Diana Award 'Knowledge 2025' event in Las Vegas yesterday

(From left) Diana Award chief executive Tessy Ojo, Prince Harry, Legacy Award holders Sikander 'Sonny' Khan and Christina Williams and ServiceNow's Paul Fipps in Las Vegas

The Duke of Sussex was in Las Vegas to launch a new youth initiative with the Diana Award

Harry was in Las Vegas launching the Pledge To Invest drive as part of the Diana Award

Prince Harry (centre) speaks at the 'Knowledge 2025' event in Las Vegas with Diana Award chief executive Tessy Ojo (left) and Sikander 'Sonny' Khan (right), a Legacy Award holder

On the same day, Meghan released the fifth episode of her new eight-part podcast Confessions of a Female Founder, with Clevr Blends founder Hannah Mendoza.

In Las Vegas, Harry chatted at the 'Knowledge 2025' event with Tessy Ojo, chief executive of The Diana Award which was set up in tribute to Diana, Princess of Wales.

Also on stage were Sikander 'Sonny' Khan from Michigan and Christina Williams from Jamaica, who are holders of The Legacy Award, as well as Paul Fipps, president of global customer operations for AI software company ServiceNow, which is partnering with the organisation.

Harry said: 'Through The Diana Award, I've had the privilege of meeting young people who have turned adversity into action.

'That's not just inspiring - it's the kind of untapped potential we can't afford to overlook. Far too many young people are locked out of leadership pipelines because we've failed to build truly inclusive and accessible pathways.'

'This generation isn't waiting for permission to lead - they are already doing it. They bring emotional intelligence, social awareness, and an honesty about mental health that previous generations struggled to express.

'What sets them apart isn't just their boldness, but their refusal to settle for the status quo... If we're serious about a better future, we need to stop underestimating them and start listening.'

Prince Harry listens to Legacy Award holder Sikander 'Sonny' Khan in Las Vegas yesterday

The Pledge To Invest drive aims to put a spotlight on the future of youth leadership

Prince Harry sits next to Diana Award chief executive Tessy Ojo at the event in Las Vegas

The event was hosted by software firm ServiceNow, which is partnering with the Diana Award

Speaking to Mr Khan and Ms Williams, the Duke added: 'We're in an era now where we are looking for more companies to be serving the greater good  the majority, not the minority. Every single young person has potential.

'From a younger generation standpoint, in an apathetic world, there's more empathy in this generation than I've ever seen before... It's the empathy, the authenticity, the truth, the honesty and the fearlessness...

'When they stand up for themselves, and stand up in their communities... That is what we need. We need fearless leadership. So I tip my hat to both of you and what you represent.'

A press release from the Diana Award stated that Harry and Dr Ojo also met with ServiceNow chief executive Bill McDermott 'along with over 20 senior business leaders, changemakers and donors at a private roundtable prior to taking the stage'.

The on stage discussion was said to have 'focused on youth leadership and how employers can proactively create pathways for young people to enter and thrive in the workplace'.

The conversation also 'highlighted what can be done to improve outcomes and emphasised the resilience and agency of young people'.

Harry's involvement in The Knowledge event 'underscores his continued commitment to redefining how we invest in the future', according to the press release.

The Duke of Sussex claimed last Friday the King will not speak to him and he does not know 'how much longer my father has' as he spoke of his hopes for a 'reconciliation' with his family

The Duke was also said to be 'helping bridge business investment and youth development, championing a vision where innovation, equity and service unite - not only to address today's workforce challenges, but to unlock the full potential of the next generation of leaders'.

It added: 'In doing so, he continues the legacy of his mother, Princess Diana, whose unwavering belief in the power of young people remains at the heart of this mission.'

It comes after Harry spoke last Friday in a bombshell BBC television interview about his hopes for a 'reconciliation' with his family. After losing the latest round in his court battle over his security, Harry said: 'this, at the heart of it, is a family dispute'.

When asked if Charles had been approached to use his influence in Harry's legal problems, the duke appeared to imply the King was a hindrance, a comment likely to deepen the rift with his father and his brother, the Prince of Wales.

He said: 'I've never asked him to intervene, I've asked him to step out of the way and let the experts do their job.'

The health of the King, who is being treated for cancer, was highlighted by his son, who said: 'And I said, life is precious. I don't know how much longer my father has, he, he won't speak to me because of this security stuff, but it would be nice to reconcile.'

Harry, who appeared emotional and close to tears through much of the interview, offered an olive branch, saying he could 'forgive my family's involvement', naming Charles, the Prince of Wales and his stepmother, the Queen, in events since he began dating his wife Meghan in 2016.

The Duchess of Sussex posted a photo of Prince Harry and their children after the court ruling

He also said information he learned during the legal process led him to discover 'some people want history to repeat itself', in an apparent reference to the death of Diana.

The duke lost a Court of Appeal challenge over his security arrangements while in the UK and said in the TV interview that he 'can't see a world in which I would be bringing my wife and children back to the UK'.

He failed in his appeal against the dismissal of his High Court claim against the Home Office, over the decision of the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec) that he should receive a different degree of protection when in the UK.

Yesterday, the BBC admitted to a lapse in 'our usual high editorial standards' in the Today programme coverage of Harry's interview after it failed to properly challenge allegations of a 'stitch up'.

Also yesterday at the event in Las Vegas, Ms Williams said: 'Providing up skilling and education opportunities and workplace mobility isn't an act of charity.

'It is in your benefit to do this now so you have a competent and capable generation to take on the torch from you in a few decades to run your companies.'

And talking about mentoring, Mr Khan said: 'I want people to understand all of us have been in that position, where we've been young people looking for a chance, and then somebody gave us that chance.

The Duchess of Sussex wished her son Prince Archie a happy sixth birthday with this photo

'It's our responsibility to lift when we rise, and open doors for other people. And that's something as a young person I've tried to do every single day - being that mentor for younger people and trying to create that ripple effect.

Dr Ojo said: 'Behind every thriving industry is its people. We don't just develop young people - we co-create the workforce of tomorrow. Companies that invest in youth leadership today are cultivating the workforce, innovators, and consumers of tomorrow. I urge businesses to find out more.'

And Mr Fipps stated: 'At ServiceNow, our purpose is to make the world work better for everyone, and that starts with the next generation.

'We're proud to partner with Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, and The Diana Award to provide a platform that encourages other business leaders to invest in young people.

'We are committed to investing in the next generation, empowering them to tackle the pressing issues of our time.'
Australians have questioned if the miraculous rescue of a world-famous runaway dachshund is all that it appears.

Valerie, a miniature sausage dog, was found on April 25 - 529 days after she went missing on Kangaroo Island, off South Australia.

This week, owners John Fishlock and Georgia Gardner drove from their home in Albury, NSW, to retrieve their beloved pet.

Ms Gardner said in a statement that Valerie was 'making her little happy sounds and wiggling around with joy' after she saw her owners for the first time since November 2023.

'She's stockier now, strong and healthy. Healthier than we are, honestly,' she said.

Valerie was spotted in CCTV tapes from Kangaroo Island residences on multiple occasions but consistently evaded capture for 17 months.

Local wildlife organisation Kangala Wildlife Rescue spotted Valerie in March before trapping her weeks later.

On Tuesday, a veterinarian declared Valerie was in perfect health.

A world-famous and vagrant miniature dachshund was returned to her owners on Wednesday

Valerie survived 17 months on her own in the tough conditions of Kangaroo Island, South Australia

Kangala director Jared Karran said it was 'just unbelievable (Valerie) was able to survive and thrive out there'.

However, the puppy's miraculous survival story and 1.8kg weight gain have led many to doubt she survived on the island on her own.

Some locals believe someone was feeding Valerie, while Kangala co-director Lisa Karran thought she had been taken in by other wild animals.

Others said Valerie would have become a feral, rabid dog in her time away from civilisation, having been just two years old when she ran away.

But rescuers and vets said that wasn't the case.

Valerie's story amassed a loyal legion of followers from around the world - with some declaring their suspicions about the survival saga.

Kangala Wildlife rescuers narrowed in on Valerie using thermal imaging and night cameras

Some locals believe the dog couldn't have survived without the help of some humans

Kangala volunteers have since responded to the emerging doubt online.

'When the dust settles and the truth comes out I think you might be pleasantly surprised,' Kangala wrote in response to one comment.

'It can be hard to see in this cruel world, but most people still want to do what's right.'

Mr Fishlock said the couple were feeling 'so much emotion' before their drive home with Valerie on Wednesday.

'We were very nervous coming in today but the reaction was just priceless,' he told The Advertiser.

'I bawled my eyes out and just seeing her come up and wag her tail and bark, Im speechless.'
A US trade deal could be signed this week as Keir Starmer scrambles to ease the pain of Donald Trump's tariffs.

Negotiators appear to be closing in on a package that could reduce the impact of the president's eye-watering 25 per cent levies on car and steep imports.

The UK is also hoping to head off the prospect of an assault on the pharma sector with agreements on quotas.

The PM has been rushing to seal a pact with America before his big Brexit 'reset', due to be unveiled at a summit with the EU on May 19.

There are concerns that could enrage Mr Trump, who has claimed the bloc was created to 'screw' the US.

A recent report by the US Department of Agriculture noted that 'dynamic' alignment with Brussels food standards could 'impact' trade with the US.

A US trade deal could be signed this week as Keir Starmer scrambles to ease the pain of Donald Trump's (pictured) tariffs

The PM has been rushing to seal a pact with America before his big Brexit 'reset', due to be unveiled at a summit with the EU on May 19

Overall trade in goods between the US and UK is largely balanced, with 59.3billion exported to the US and 57.1billion imported

According to the Financial Times, the package on the table includes quotas that could protect UK exports of cars and steel, as well as reductions in the headline rates.

In return Britain is expected to make concessions on a new 'digital tax', as well as lowering tariffs on US cars and farming products.

Touring broadcast studios this morning, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds did not deny an agreement could happen this week - although he stressed teams were still working.

One Labour MP close to Mr Reynolds told MailOnline that the shape of the deal was clear.

'The terms are broadly there, they have been making good progress. But no-one knows what happens when you put stuff in front of Trump.'

Sir Keir and Mr Trump raised the prospect of a Transatlantic trade deal when they met at the White House in February - before the president unveiled his 'Liberation Day' tariff barrage.

Hopes have dwindled of getting an exemption from the 'baseline' 10 per cent charges on goods entering America.

Sir Keir has ruled out several concessions the US was thought to be looking for as the price of a deal.

These include reductions in food standards rules that limit imports of American agricultural goods and changes to online safety legislation that some US politicians believe limit freedom of speech.

Economists have warned that Mr Trump's policies are set to spark a global slowdown and wreak havoc with Rachel Reeves' attempts to revive growth. The president has rolled back on many of the more punitive levies he originally threatened amid a stock market plunge and rising costs of servicing the US debt mountain.

Sir Keir has repeatedly rejected suggestions that the UK will need to choose between partnerships with Europe or America, saying the national interest 'demands that we work with both'.

The Europe minister today suggested a 'free movement' arrangement for young people could form part of the deal with the EU.

Nick Thomas-Symonds, who has previously insisted there are no plans for a youth mobility scheme, said the UK would consider 'sensible' proposals from Brussels.

Sir Keir's 'red lines' for the negotiations with Brussels include not returning to freedom of movement, but it is understood the Government considers a limited youth mobility scheme would not break that promise.

Mr Thomas-Symonds said provided those lines were respected 'a smart, controlled youth mobility scheme would of course have benefits for our young people'.

Ministers have indicated privately they would cap numbers in any scheme and make it time limited, and Thomas-Symonds confirmed: 'We will consider sensible EU proposals in this space.'

Government sources said the decision to rule out a return to free movement did not prevent 'controlled schemes that are in our national interest' being considered and there are already youth mobility schemes with 13 non-EU countries.

As recently as last month Mr Thomas-Symonds told MPs 'on the issue of a youth mobility scheme, it is not part of our plans' although he accepted the UK would listen to proposals.

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch has warned a youth mobility scheme, potentially including people up to 30, could mean 'we could end up with lots of unemployed people coming to the UK at a time when unemployment is increasing in our country'.

The Trump administration is holding trade talks with countries including Canada, Mexico, Japan, Vietnam and India, as well as the EU.

There had been reports that the UK would be in the second tranche of agreements being targeted.

US Treasury secretary Scott Bessent told a congressional hearing yesterday that some of those deals could be announced 'perhaps as early as this week'.

The importance of an agreement was laid bare this morning with official figures showing 27.4 per cent of British-made cars went to the US last year - worth 9billion

Ministers have been scrambling to finalise terms before a summit with the EU on May 19 - when Keir Starmer will unveil closer relations (pictured with Ursula von der Leyen)

He suggested that several countries had made 'good offers', without providing details.

One senior car industry executive told the FT that while reducing tariffs on the UK was desirable the wider goal must be reducing the 25 per cent rate globally.

'Quotas are complex to operate and inherently limiting to trade,' they said.

'The most important thing is cutting the 25 per cent tariff, because above about 10 per cent, it's just not sustainable.'
Donald Trump called the burgeoning conflict between India and Pakistan a 'shame' as he learned of overnight exchanges between the two nuclear-armed states.

'It's a shame. We just heard about it,' he told reporters late on Tuesday. 'They've been fighting for a long time ... I just hope it ends very quickly.'

India and Pakistan were teetering on the brink of war this morning after New Delhi hit what it called 'terrorist camps' overnight, prompting stark threats from Islamabad.

Pakistan claimed to have shot down five Indian fighter jets as it condemned an 'act of war' from India, vowing to retaliate after missiles hit Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Both sides exchanged heavy artillery along their contested frontier into Wednesday. Pakistan reported 26 killed by Indian attacks, and India reported 12 killed by Pakistan.

The Indian army said 'justice is served', with New Delhi adding that its actions 'have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature'.

But fears of a full-blown conflict between the two nuclear powers have escalated sharply in the last few hours.

India says it was attacking bases used by those it blames for an attack on the Indian-run side of Kashmir last month - the worst massacre of civilians in India since 2008.

It added that 'no Pakistani civilian, economic or military targets have been hit' in the missile attacks' - an assertion sharply rebuked by Pakistani officials.

India last night struck 'terror sites' in Pakistan, responding to a massacre in April

At least 26 people were killed and 46 injured in Pakistan after India fired missiles

At least 12 civilians were killed and 32 injured in India after Pakistan fired back

Pakistan claims to have shot down Indian jets and vows further retaliation

Follow our live blog for the latest updates on the developing conflict

Donald Trump told reporters it was a 'shame' the conflict broke out and said he hopes it ends 'very quickly'

India fired missiles across the border into nine Pakistani 'terror camps' in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir early Wednesday

No military facilities were targeted in the strikes

India said it had evidence of further 'impending' attacks, and was acting to 'deter' militantism

Your browser does not support iframes.

Fighter jets roared through the skies over the Himalayan territory this morning and explosions could be heard near the 'Line of Control' in a strike that lasted 25 minutes.

The Indian government said in a statement in the early hours of Wednesday morning that its armed forces had launched 'Operation Sindoor', hitting nine 'terrorist camps' in 'Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir'.

The crisis was triggered by an April 22 militant attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir, which left 26 people dead, mainly Hindu men, in the tourist hotspot of Pahalgam.

Nobody has claimed the attack but New Delhi said the gunmen were from Pakistan-based militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba, a UN-designated terror organisation with a history of carrying out attacks on Indian soil.

The group has long been rumoured to have murky links to the Pakistani military establishment - which Islamabad denies.

Hindu-majority India accuses Islamic Pakistan of funding and encouraging militancy in Kashmir, the Himalayan region both nations claim in full but rule in part.

At least 26 civilians were also killed and 46 injured in India's missile attack on Pakistani-controlled territory overnight, Pakistan officials said, vowing a tough response.

Islamabad said a three-year-old child was among eight civilians killed in the strikes.

In Muzaffarabad, the main city of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, troops cordoned off streets around a mosque Islamabad said was hit, with marks of explosions also visible on the walls of several homes.

Shaina Nana Chudasama, a former spokesperson for the ruling party in India, the BJP, claimed that 'no civilians' had been harmed by the strikes, despite reports of mass casualties, including women and children.

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said today that India had intelligence suggesting that 'further attacks' were 'impending' before they took action.

'Our intelligence monitoring of Pakistan-based terrorist modules indicated that further attacks against India were impending,' he said in a briefing on the operation today.

'There was thus a compulsion both to deter and to pre-empt.'

India claimed to have destroyed a number of what it called 'terror camps' in Pakistan

Tanks are transported on a road in Muridke near Lahore, Pakistan, May 7, 2025

Pakistan moves tanks along its highways early on Wednesday after the overnight clashes

Debris of an aircraft lies in the compound of a mosque at Pampore in Pulwama district of Indian controlled Kashmir, Wednesday, May 7, 2025

A part of an aircraft bearing French language writing is seen on the ground in Wuyan near Indian-administered Kashmir's main city of Srinagar on May 7, 2025

Metal debris lies on the ground in Wuyan in south Kashmir's Pulwama district district May 7

A girl who lives in a village near the Line of control between India and Pakistan, and got injured during shelling by Pakistan gets treated at a hospital in Uri, Indian controlled Kashmir, Wednesday, May 7, 2025

Your browser does not support iframes.

Misri blamed last month's attack in Indian-administered Kashmir on 'Pakistani and Pakistan-trained terrorists', the BBC reports.

He said it was carried out by The Resistance Front, which he claimed was a front for Pakistani Indian-proscribed terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Misri said that investigations into the April 22 attack had revealed the 'communication nodes of terrorists in and to Pakistan'.

He argued that 'the features' of the attack on civilians 'also tie in with Pakistan's long track record of perpetrating cross-border terror in India'.

India struck nine 'terror bases' with missiles late on Tuesday night, before both sides exchanged artillery fire.

It then accused Pakistan of 'again violating' a ceasefire agreement by 'firing artillery in Bhimber Gali in Poonch- Rajauri area,' on the Indian side.

The army 'is responding appropriately in a calibrated manner,' it added.

But fears remain that the conflict could blow up into a full-scale war between the two neighbouring countries.

A city view of Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-administrated Kashmir as strikes hit overnight

Fire fighters douse smoke coming out from the debris of an aircraft near Akhnoor on the outskirts of Jammu, India, Wednesday, May 7, 2025

Indian security personnel stand guard in Wuyan near Srinagar on May 7, 2025

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri briefs the media about the 'Operation Sindoor' at the National Media center in New Delhi, India, May 7 2025

'Pakistan has every right to give a robust response to this act of war imposed by India, and a strong response is indeed being given,' Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said.

He said the 'deceitful enemy has carried out cowardly attacks at five locations in Pakistan' and that his country would retaliate.

A history of the India-Pakistan conflict After 300 years in India, Britain recognised it was no longer logistically possible to maintain its foothold in the subcontinent in 1947. Independence movements - sometimes violent - were growing, Britain was reeling from the cost of the Second World War, and the new Labour government saw a lack of majority support on the ground. The British withdrawal from India was quite sudden, partitioning the area into two independent nation states drawn along religious lines: a Hindu-majority India and a Muslim-majority Pakistan. Regions were not absolutely divided along clear lines and huge migrations began in both directions; millions of Muslims trekked West to Pakistan, and millions of Hindus and Sikhs headed to India. Hundreds of thousands did not make the journey. Within months, conflicts erupted over Kashmir, a mountainous and strategic location with disputed borders, with both religious significance and essential for supporting huge populations with access to water from the Himalayas. The United Nations brokered a ceasefire that split the region, but both newly formed nations continued to claim it in full. India and Pakistan fought in 1965, when Pakistani forces crossed into Indian-administered Kashmir. Tensions boiled over again in 1971, with India supporting independence forces in East Pakistan. Ultimately, this led to the creation of an independent Bangladesh. And then in 1999, Pakistani troops crossed back into Indian-administered Kashmir. Nationalist and independence movements still exist in the contested territory, stoking tensions between the two neighbouring nuclear powers. India launched strikes in 2016 and 2019 in response to 'terror attacks', prompting responses in kind from Pakistan. Advertisement

Speaking at a National Security Committee (NSC) meeting today, chaired by the prime minister, Mr Sharif rejected India's claims of terrorist camps on its territory.

The armed forces later said they had been 'fully authorised' to carry out 'corresponding actions' in response to the strikes overnight.

Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif echoed the sentiment, telling AFP the retaliation had 'already started', after the military earlier said it would respond 'at a time and place of its own choosing'.

Indian missiles hit six locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and in the country's eastern Punjab province, killing at least 26 people, including women and children, said Pakistan's military spokesperson, Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif.

Sharif said the Indian jets also damaged infrastructure at a dam in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, calling it a violation of international norms.

Indian media cited officials in saying that seven people, including a woman and two children, had been killed and 38 injured in strikes into Indian territory from Pakistan. The figure was later updated to 12.

The BBC said it was able to confirm that at least 10 civilians had died and 32 had been injured in Indian-administered Kashmir following Pakistani artillery shelling.

'The firing was particularly intense in Poonch and Mehandar regions,' the broadcaster reported, citing residents.

Homes and shops in the northernmost regions of India were reported to have been badly damaged.

Pakistan was said to have 'pounded dozens of forward villages with artillery and mortar shelling along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir'.

India's army accused Pakistan of 'indiscriminate' firing across the Line of Control (LoC), the de facto border in Kashmir, with bursts of flame as shells landed, AFP reporters saw.

The strikes came amid soaring tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors over last month's militant attack on tourists in the Indian-controlled portion of Kashmir, which killed 26.

India has blamed Pakistan for backing the bloody attack, which Islamabad has denied.

The shooting, which Indian authorities believe was carried out by Pakistani assailants, prompted a flurry of military and diplomatic action as both sides engaged in exchanges of fire along the 'Line of Control'.

India launched naval drills, test-fired several long-range missile systems and suspended a key treaty that ensures India supplies Pakistan with water from the Indus River, a provision that is crucial for Pakistan's water supply and agricultural economy.

Pakistan, which has denied any involvement in the attack, deployed its air force to close its airspace to Indian airlines and has mobilised its army.

India identified two of the three April 22 attackers as 'terrorists' from Pakistan waging a violent revolt in the Indian-administered but Muslim-majority part of Kashmir.

Local residents examine a building damaged from a suspected Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan controlled Kashmir, in Wednesday, May 7, 2025

Local residents and members of the media examine a building damaged by a suspected Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan controlled Kashmir, in Wednesday, May 7

This handout photograph released by the Pakistan's Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) on May 7, 2025 shows paramedics giving treatment to an injured man at a hospital in Bahawalpur, Punjab province, following strikes in Pakistan

The majority of the dead were Hindu tourists from India, with reports from witnesses and survivors claiming the gunmen were ordering civilians to recite Islamic prayers and shooting those who were unable to do so.

A Pakistani militant group known as The Resistance Front (TRF) claimed responsibility in the wake of the attack, only to rescind the statement days later and blame the initial claim on a communications breach.

New Delhi said the gunmen were from Pakistan-based militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba, a UN designated terror group long rumoured to have links with the Pakistani military establishment. Islamabad denies to link.

LeT's main objective is to merge the whole of Kashmir with Pakistan.

Dr. Mohammad Faisal, Pakistan's High Commissioner to the UK has blasted foreign powers for not intervening sooner to cool tensions between India and Pakistan.

He accused India of attacking civilians and said that retaliation 'should' happen.

He told the Today Programme: 'During the night there were multiple attacks on Pakistan and we have been alerting the world of this eventuality for the last 15 days or so.

Workers paint a red cross symbol over the roof of a hospital as a preventive measure amid the ongoing border tensions, in Srinagar on May 7, 2025

Indian school students take part in a mock drill at Rajkiya Sarvodaya Vidyalaya in New Delhi, India, May 7 2025

Students take part in an emergency mock drill as part of the nationwide civil defence mock drill at a school in New Delhi on May 7, 2025, as border tensions surge

'I have been urging all the international community to intervene, to escalate the situation, to improve the relations. Sadly nothing much has happened.

'Yesterday Indian attacks have led to 26 deaths of civilians, which includes women and children, young girls, and 46 injured.

'There is a lot of anger in Pakistan. We have shot down some five planes, three Raphales and Su-30s and two or three drones.'

He confirmed that Pakistan was shelling India, adding: 'If Pakistan is attacked, we will retaliate. So if from the other side there are bombs and shells falling on our side of course retaliation will be there.

'Retaliation should also be there for the 26 deaths that have happened, all of civilians. And all during the day today their funerals will be carried out all over Pakistan.

'This is a cause of grave concern for us and for two nuclear-armed powers.'

The British government said in the wake of the strikes that it was ready to 'support' the de-escalation of tensions.

UK business secretary Jonathan Reynolds told the BBC today that the clashes were 'hugely worrying'.

'Our message would be that we are a friend, a partner to both countries. We stand ready to support both countries.'

'Anything we can do to support [de-escalation], we are here are willing to do,' he said.
Ukraine has targeted Moscow with drones for a third consecutive day as Russian President Vladimir Putin prepares to host 29 world leaders to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe.

Most of the Russian capital's airports were forced to close and remained out of action last night - shortly before Chinese President Xi Jinping was due to arrive.

Military units from 13 countries, including China, will take part in the parade marking the victory over Nazi Germany.

Xi is due to start a four-day visit to Russia today, giving Putin an important diplomatic boost at a time when the Russian leader is keen to show his country is not isolated on the world stage.

It will be the Chinese leader's third visit to Moscow since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

But Putin's parade plans have already been disrupted by Kyiv's military efforts.

One target hit by Ukrainian drones was Kubinka military airfield, west of the city, used for aircraft taking part in the scheduled Red Square flypast.

Russian MiG-29 and Su-27 fighter jets are based at this airfield, as is Putin's aerobatic team, as well as a strike base for attacks on Ukraine.

Military units from 13 countries, including China , will take part in the parade marking the victory over Nazi Germany

Putin's annual Red Square parade is a source of national pride, with this year's show expected to be more extravagant than usual

Xi is due to start a four-day visit to Russia today , giving Putin an important diplomatic boost

Fighterbomber Telegram channel admitted the strike, stating: 'The [Ukrainians] are trying to spoil our parade and are hitting the locations of personnel and equipment - participants in the parade.

'At night, a drone attacked the Kubinka airfield, where our aerobatic teams Russian Knights and Swifts are based.'

A location, possibly storage warehouses, close to another airfield - Shaikovka in Kaluga region, 140 miles southwest of Moscow, base of long-range Tu-22 strategic nuclear bombers - was reported ablaze.

NASA's fire monitoring satellites recorded fires at both sites.

Hundreds of flights were impacted with passengers complaining of a 'nightmare' at Moscow's airports.

Passengers on a Dubai-Moscow flight forced to land in Kazan were told they were being held in a hotel for an 'indefinite' period due to the attacks.

Vnukovo airport - used by Putin and top officials - was in chaos with 50-plus flights delayed.

Sheremetyevo airport cancelled multiple flights due to the drone swarms.

There was also huge internet disruption as the authorities reportedly jammed signals, desperately seeking to counter Ukrainian kamikaze drones.

Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin claimed 17 drones targeting the city had been downed, with unconfirmed reports saying the city had been struck.

In one of the Ukraine's fiercest offensive nights of the entire three-year war, its armed forces hit two Russian strategic defence plants in Saransk, some 320 miles southeast of Moscow - including Optic Fibre Systems JSC, the only fibre optic manufacturing plant in Russia.

In one of the Ukraine's fiercest offensive nights of the entire three-year war, its armed forces hit two Russian strategic defence plants in Saransk

President Zelenskyy has refused to guarantee the safety of visiting foreign leaders and Ukraine has warned that Putin could stage a terror attack in Moscow, blaming Kyiv

Foreign leaders will be treated to the spectacle of Russian tanks, howitzers and intercontinental ballistic missiles on display outside the Kremlin

Thick black smoke was seen pouring from the plant which is vital to production of hi-tech Russian military drones.

Another defence target was also ablaze more than one miles away.

Reports said KhimMash was on fire - a key chemical engineering plant, producing equipment for rocket propellant production and components for military rocket and missile systems.

All schools, universities and kindergartens were closed in the city today, and a ban imposed on photos, videos and information about the consequences of the attacks - a sign of the havoc wrought by the Ukrainian strikes.

Two key military plants were also hit in Tula - 110 miles south of Moscow.

Smoke was seen pouring from the Design Bureau of Instrument Engineering, which develops high-precision guided weapons for Putin's war machine.

Drones also hit the Scientific and Production Association SPLAV, which produces multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS), heavy flamethrower systems (HFS), ammunition, and unguided and guided aircraft missiles, according to reports.

It is still unclear whether Ukraine's efforts delayed or prevented any world leaders from touching down in Moscow.

Putin's annual Red Square parade is a source of national pride, with this year's show expected to be more extravagant than usual.

Foreign leaders will be treated to the spectacle of Russian tanks, howitzers and intercontinental ballistic missiles on display outside the Kremlin.

But there are fears that the May 9 event could be directly targeted by Kyiv.

President Zelenskyy has refused to guarantee the safety of visiting foreign leaders and Ukraine has warned that Putin could stage a terror attack in Moscow, blaming Kyiv.

'Our position is very simple for all countries travelling to Russia on May 9: we cannot be held responsible for what happens on the territory of the Russian Federation,' he said.

'We will not provide any guarantees, because we do not know what Russia might do on those dates.'

Russia has warned residents of Moscow to avoid setting off fireworks or flying drones to celebrate Victory Day as officials tighten up security.

Russia has warned residents of Moscow to avoid setting off fireworks or flying drones to celebrate Victory Day as officials tighten up security

Moscow has continued to strike targets in Kyiv and elsewhere in Ukraine as the three-year invasion continues

A view shows an apartment building damaged during a Russian drone strike

An explosion of a drone is seen during a Russian drone strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv

Robert Fico, the prime minister of Slovakia, who is planning to attend, said: 'Its extremely disrespectful for someone to tell the country that made the greatest contribution to defeating fascism and suffered the greatest losses: "Go ahead and celebrate  maybe well throw a drone your way".'

Moscow has continued to strike targets in Kyiv and elsewhere in Ukraine as the three-year invasion continues.

In the capital, two people died and eight were wounded in strikes which included deadly Iskander missiles. Four children were reported as being among the injured.

In the Sumy border region, Russian strikes killed three people, including one child, and left 11 injured, including 5 children.

Meanwhile, four were wounded in Russian strikes on Zaporizhzia.
A man plunged 100ft to his death after losing his balance while trying to take a scenic selfie a Canary Islands hotel rooftop.

The 48-year-old had been on the eighth floor of the building in the La Puntilla area of Las Canteras in the early hours of Sunday morning before the terrifying fall.

The man, who was a resident of the Canary Islands, had climbed onto the railing of the rooftop terrace in an apparent attempt to take a photo, police sources told local media.

He then became unstable and plummeted off the roof to the promenade below at around 1.30am.

Emergency services rushed to the scene, but the man was pronounced dead upon their arrival.

He had been accompanied by a friend at the time of the accident.

The incident casts a spotlight on the risks people are prepared to take while in pursuit of the perfect selfie.

The Canary Islands, like many tourist destinations worldwide, have seen an increase in accidents linked to people placing themselves in dangerous situations to take dramatic, eye-catching footage.

Authorities have urged the public to avoid putting themselves at risk for photographs, particularly in elevated, unstable, or coastal locations.

A man plunged to his death after losing his balance while trying to take a scenic selfie on the rooftop of a Canary Islands hotel. Pictured: Stock image of Las Canteras Beach in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

The 48-year-old had been on the eighth floor of the building in the La Puntilla area of Las Canteras before the terrifying fall. Pictured: Stock image of Puntilla Square and Las Canteras beach

The man, who was a resident of the Canary Islands, had climbed onto the railing of the rooftop terrace in an apparent attempt to take a photo, police sources told local media (stock image)

Emergency services rushed to the scene, but the man was pronounced dead upon their arrival. Pictured: A stock image of the promenade, beach and mountains of Las Palamas de Gran Canaria

It comes after just days ago an American man impaled himself on a metal fence at Rome's Colosseum while attempting to snap a selfie.

The 47-year-old was dangling from the fence and screaming until he fell unconscious after becoming badly wounded at the iconic Roman landmark on May 2.

The unidentified man, a US citizen currently residing in Taiwan, was seen climbing the perimeter railings that surround the Colosseum's towering arches, perhaps to gain a better view or as local press speculated to capture a dramatic photo.

But his quest for the perfect shot ended in the horrifying accident.

According to Il Messaggero, the man lost his footing while scaling the fence and was impaled through the spine by a sharpened metal spike.

Eyewitnesses rushed to call emergency services, and although paramedics arrived on scene quickly, it took them more than 20 grueling minutes to remove the man from the spike.

'It was a complex operation,' one first responder told the paper. 'He was losing a lot of blood, and we had to work with extreme caution.'

The tourist was transported in 'code red' condition - a designation used for life-threatening emergencies - to San Giovanni Hospital, where doctors performed emergency surgery.

He required more than 80 stitches, but by the evening, doctors declared him out of immediate danger and in serious but stable condition.

The man, who had been in Rome with family and friends for several days before the accident, was later questioned by the Carabinieri police.

His travel companions were also interviewed by authorities but were unable to explain what had motivated his dangerous climb.

No official statement has been released by Italian law enforcement regarding potential charges.

Il Messaggero noted how the man might have been trying to capture 'a closer view of the Colosseum, perhaps for an unforgettable selfie.'

Meanwhile, in 2024 a tourist plunged to his death in a Colombian beauty spot while trying to take a selfie, according to reports.

Tobias Fischer, 35, died during his solo hike in the mountains in the Taganga district, northern Colombia, on October 19 near where he was staying in the port city of Santa Maria.

He tried to take a selfie at a viewpoint in the Dumbira forest with the sea in the background when he lost his balance and fell down a ravine, local media reports.

His body was spotted shortly after his fall by other hikers, who called emergency services.

Mr Fischer was rushed to hospital, where he later suffered a cardiac arrest as a result of the severe injuries he sustained in the fall and died.

Investigators ruled Fischer's death an accident.

'We have been informed that the foreigner fell from a high place while he was walking and was quickly helped by the community, who took him to the emergency room at the Taganga health post,' a police spokesperson told local media at the time.

Mr Fischer reportedly arrived in Santa Maria to explore the nearby beaches and mountains.

He had reportedly taken to social media to write about 'the best experiences of his life' in Colombia in the days before his death.
Fears of a cataclysmic conflict are mounting after India and Pakistan traded punishing strikes overnight in a rapid escalation between two nuclear-armed neighbours that world leaders have warned could spiral out of control.

Both possess roughly comparable nuclear stockpiles of around 170 warheads but while India maintains a 'no first use' doctrine, Pakistan harbours no such restraint - raising global alarm over where this latest exchange could lead.

Explosions lit the night sky over Pakistan shortly after midnight as India launched strikes on nine sites in response to last month's Islamist terror attack in Pahalgam, in Indian-controlled Kashmir, which killed 26 civilians.

Footage circulating on social media showed massive fireballs erupting as missiles struck targets across Pakistan's eastern Punjab province and Pakistan-controlled Kashmir.

Delhi was quick to stress that its attacks - named Operation Sindoor, after the red pigment traditionally worn by the wives of Hindu men - targeted 'terrorist infrastructure' and did not strike Pakistani military assets, describing them as 'focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature'.

Masood Azhar, the leader of designated Pakistani Islamist terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), confirmed that his brother and nine other family members and aides were killed in one strike on the Subhan Allah Mosque in Bahawalpur, according to Indian media and BBC Urdu.

But Pakistan's defence minister Khawaja Asif claimed the strikes hit civilian areas and described them as an 'act of war' as prime minister Shehbaz Sharif warned India's 'heinous act of aggression will not go unpunished', erasing hopes that a dangerous escalation might be avoided.

Pakistan's armed forces were authorised to respond to India's strikes and, just hours later, missiles reportedly brought down five Indian fighter jets before Islamabad's forces began pounding Indian positions across the Line of Control (LoC), the de facto border separating Indian- and Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, with artillery.

More than two dozen civilians in Pakistan and at least ten in India have already been reported dead, with observers fearing the conflict could tip into a full-scale war that 'the world cannot afford', according to UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres.

India, one of the world's largest economies and its most populous nation, fields over 1.2million active soldiers and an additional 250,000 personnel in its navy and air force, vastly outnumbering Pakistan's forces, which total fewer than 700,000.

Yet defence experts caution that Pakistan's military capabilities remain 'in the same order of magnitude' as India's, thanks in part to its formidable arsenal of short- and medium-range missiles, and the fact that - unlike India - it need not divert substantial military resources to monitoring China.

Researchers warned in 2019 that a nuclear exchange in such a densely populated region could leave 125million people dead within days.

Your browser does not support iframes.

Your browser does not support iframes.

No military facilities were targeted in the strikes, India claimed

A soldier examines a building damaged by a suspected Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, on Wednesday

Mourners attend the funeral of Kashmiri man Muhammad Yaqoob, who was killed after an Indian missile strike in Muzaffarabad

The remnants of what appears to be a French-manufactured fighter jet lies on the ground after being shot down in Wuyan in India-administered Kashmir

Volunteers carry a body after recovering it from the rubble of a mosque damaged by a suspected Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad

A girl who lives in a village near the Line of Control is treated at a hospital in Uri, India-controlled Kashmir

The slaughter of more than two dozen Indian tourists holidaying in the meadows of the Baisaran valley - allegedly by Pakistani Islamist gunmen - on April 22 immediately sparked concern of a wider conflict between the two nuclear-armed powers.

It represented a 'massive intelligence failure' on the part of India's security services and led Indian analysts to predict Delhi would not allow the act to go unpunished, especially amid public outrage and demand for action.

'Operation Sindoor has pretty much ended the old India-Pakistan relationship,' said Happymon Jacob, Indian foreign policy expert and associate professor of disarmament studies at the School of International Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University.

'There is little chance of India-Pakistan relations going back to the old format of comprehensive/composite dialogues, discussions on Kashmir and people to people cooperation.'

Bilateral relations are now 'arguably at their lowest point in decades, just short of war', according to Dr Manali Kumar, Indian national identity and foreign policy expert at the University of St. Gallen.

Indian authorities claim the killing spree was perpetrated by Pakistani nationals associated with the terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) - or the 'Army of the Righteous' - a Salafi-Islamist outfit also responsible for the devastation in Mumbai 17 years ago.

LeT is widely suspected of having links with Pakistan's Inter-Services-Intelligence (ISI) agency, which Indian commentators said enabled Delhi to justify a military operation across the LoC and on Pakistani territory.

Jacob said Delhi's Operation Sindoor - which authorities said targeted sites associated with LeT as well as another terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed - seeks to show Islamabad that it will no longer tolerate the use of 'subconventional force'.

He described such force as attacks carried out by terror organisations India believes are in some way supported or enabled by Pakistani authorities.

'The Indian doctrine underlined by Operation Sindoor is that by carrying out a terrorist attack against India, it is actually Pakistan... that is initiating a conventional military conflict.

'The emerging Indian argument is that in so far as there are anti-India terrorist organisations in Pakistan who have attacked India, and who have not been brought to justice by Islamabad, those are reasons enough for Delhi to take punitive measures.'

However, Pakistani authorities say there are no such ties between the government and militant groups and have levelled similar accusations against India.

Information Minister Attuallah Tatar told Sky News today that 'there is no question at all of having terrorist camps in Pakistan', arguing that his nation 'is the frontline state in eliminating terrorism' and 'the guarantor of world peace as the wall between terrorism and the rest of the world'.

Pakistan's National Security Committee (NSC) urged the international community 'to recognise the gravity of India's unprovoked illegal actions' and said Delhi must bear responsibility for having 'once again ignited an inferno in the region'.

In a series of posts on X, Pakistani diplomat and former minister for foreign affairs Hina Khar said Operation Sindoor shows that 'India feels it has impunity to do what it will without any consideration to international law'.

'Pakistan has not only the right but also the capacity to respond to this belligerent, rogue neighbour as it is doing now'.

Meanwhile, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif accused Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi of launching the strikes to 'shore up' his domestic popularity - a take that several Indian analysts agree on.

Pushpesh Pant, former dean of the School of International Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University, said the strikes were 'more optics than kinetics' and that Operation Sindoor 'boils down to saving face' for Modi.

He added the attacks on Pakistan, which the Indian army described as 'justice served', risks leaving the ball in Pakistan's court.

'The point is now everything depends on the calibrated response of Pakistan. If Pakistan kills many civilians in India in a retaliatory strike, then New Delhi will also be in a bind [to escalate the conflict],' he told the South China Morning Post.

'Escalation risks are real. And they could well increase, and quickly,' said Michael Kugelman, an expert on South Asian geopolitics.

'These are two strong militaries that, even without nuclear weapons as a deterrent, are not afraid to deploy conventional military force against each other.'

Aircraft debris lies in the compound of a mosque at Pampore in India-controlled Kashmir

Indian paramilitary personnel stand guard along a road in Srinagar

Soldiers inspect the damaged building of the Government Health and Educational Complex after Indian strikes in Muridke, about 19 miles from Lahore

Indian authorities shared a map displaying what it claimed were known terror camps and infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan controlled Kashmir

Indian Colonel Sofiya Qureshi presented videos showing destroyed 'terror camps' amid Operation Sindoor

Prior to the launch of Operation Sindoor this morning, analysts were split over what a potential Indian operation would look like, but the prospect of India launching strikes on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan was highlighted as a likely outcome.

Thus far there have been no reports of Indian attempts to cross the LoC or launch a ground incursion into Pakistani territory, and it remains to be seen whether Pakistan's retaliation for this morning's strikes could trigger a tit-for-tat spiral of attacks.

But today, any major military engagement between India and Pakistan would unfold beneath the looming spectre of a possible nuclear clash.

Researchers have already laid out a hauntingly detailed account of the havoc a nuclear conflict would wreak on the civilian populations of both nations and beyond.

Their article, published in the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists in 2019, reported that a nuclear war would 'kill tens of millions of people immediately and would create enormous environmental impacts, causing famines that affect millions  or even billions  around the world'.

'The direct effects of this nuclear exchange would be horrible; the authors estimate that 50 to 125 million people would die, depending on whether the weapons used had yields of 15, 50, or 100 kilotons,' the article read.

'The ramifications for Indian and Pakistani society would be major and long-lasting, with many major cities largely destroyed and uninhabitable.

'Smoke and radioactive particles would 'spread globally within weeks... cooling the global surface, reducing precipitation and threatening mass starvation'.

Recognising the potential for a cataclysmic fallout should the conflict between India and Pakistan intensify, world powers have called for cooler heads to prevail.

China, which has supported Pakistan in developing its military capabilities and supplied technological input to enhance Islamabad's missile forces, said: 'India and Pakistan are neighbours who cannot be moved away, and both are also China's neighbours. China opposes all forms of terrorism.

'We call on both India and Pakistan to prioritise the overall situation of peace and stability, maintain calm and restraint, and avoid taking actions that would further complicate the situation.'

US President Donald Trump meanwhile characterised the clash as 'a shame'. 'They've been fighting for a long time... I just hope it ends very quickly,' he said.

Turkey, a Muslim-majority country that has long had close military and economic ties with Pakistan, took aim at India for 'running the risk of starting all-out war' and urged both sides to 'show good sense'. It also advocated for an independent investigation into the April 22 attack.

Members of the Liaquat University of Medical & Health Sciences Jamshoro hold banners and shout anti-India slogans during a protest in Hyderabad, Pakistan

People look at a part of an aircraft in Wuyan near Indian-administered Kashmir's main city of Srinagar

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi from the Indian army briefs the media about 'Operation Sindoor' at the National Media Centre in New Delhi

Indian foreign policy experts have pointed out that Delhi will have to consider the potential consequences of any armed response for its wider objectives on the international stage - namely, to cement India's status as an influential global power, and a responsible, stable leader of South Asia in line with its 'Neighbourhood First' policy.

The latest violence exceeds India's strikes in 2019, when New Delhi said it had hit 'several militants' after a suicide bomber attacked an Indian security force convoy, killing 40.

'In a conventional military action-reaction scenario, it is hard for even a stronger military to emerge as a clear winner,' Jacob said.

'A military action-reaction spiral with Pakistan, laden with escalatory potential, will take Delhi's political and diplomatic attention away from its global objectives.

'India has successfully managed to de-hyphenate itself from Pakistan in the eyes of the international community,' he wrote in a column for The Hindustan Times, adding that nuclear fears and concerns about military escalation in the subcontinent would erode that decades-long progress.

But in the wake of Operation Sindoor, Jacob said it appeared that India's government had decided it must respond to terrorism, 'regardless of the consequences of such a response'.

'Operation Sindoor seeks to show that India no longer accepts there is a fundamental distinction between subconventional (terrorism) and conventional (military) aggression.'

Others noted that overt displays of military action may serve the domestic agendas of the political elite in both nations despite the risk for escalation, particularly in Pakistan, which is in the midst of an economic crisis and rising dissent against the government and highly influential military.

Several commentators pointed out that India's decision to name its military operation after the pigment used by Hindu women to indicate marital status would resonate with Prime Minister Modi's Hindu base and plays on tensions between Hindus and Muslims.

'Two governments - each beset by domestic crises, faltering legitimacy, and swelling public anger - have reached for the oldest trick in the authoritarian handbook: start a fire on the border to drown out the blaze at home,' wrote Professor Junaid S. Ahmad, a Pakistani geopolitical analyst and Director at Islamabad's Center for the Study of Islam and Decoloniation (CSID).

'Nothing distracts quite like the prospect of nuclear Armageddon,' he told Middle East Monitor.

The Indian government said it had carried out military strikes on nine sites in Pakistan

Indian tourists are pictured in Pahalgam on April 29

India launches a Agni-5 nuclear-capable missile

Your browser does not support iframes.

Prior to the launch of Operation Sindoor, India had suspended key treaty that ensures India supplies Pakistan with water from the Indus River, a provision that is crucial for Pakistan's water supply and agricultural economy.

The unprecedented abeyance of the treaty on India's part is seen by some analysts as a key factor that could hasten a full-scale armed engagement.

Dr Kumar told MailOnline: 'India's response, moving beyond conventional diplomatic and past kinetic military actions to include the unprecedented suspension of participation in the foundational Indus Waters Treaty... carries immense risks.

'It is perceived by Pakistan as an existential threat  an act of war if water flows are curtailed - drastically increasing the likelihood of military confrontation between two nuclear-armed states.

'This also sets a dangerous precedent for the weaponisation of shared resources, raising alarms among India's other neighbours who will be watching how this develops very carefully.'

Even if a significant military conflict is avoided, the events of April 22 will have a debilitating impact on India-Pakistan relations and exacerbate tensions between Hindu and Muslim populations.

Dr Kumar added: 'Continued militarisation and political hardening pose significant domestic risks for India's internal security. A major concern is the worsening hate and communal tension against Muslims across India... and crucially, the condition of the Kashmiri people is severely impacted.

'The intensified security crackdown, economic ruin, and erosion of civil liberties following the attack further deteriorate their already contested 'normalcy', fuelling alienation and grievances and posing long-term challenges to peace within Indian-administered Kashmir.

'Driven by ideology and a disregard for human life, terrorist activity in Kashmir tragically impacts Kashmiris and Muslims across India more than anyone else, and makes any kind of peaceful resolution of the dispute between India and Pakistan even harder to achieve.'

The international community has roundly called for cooler heads to prevail and warned against escalation in Kashmir, though the US has declared it stands in solidarity with India and supports Delhi's right to defend itself.

But India's commitment to handling its affairs with Pakistan internally means global players will likely have little sway on how the saga plays out.
The best friend of a British woman who died after drinking bootleg alcohol abroad has told of the harrowing moment they realised they had been poisoned.

Bethany Clarke and Simone White, both from Orpington in south-east London, were on a night out in Laos last November when six shots resulted in tragedy.

London solicitor Ms White, 28, died after unknowingly consuming bootleg alcohol - believed to have contained methanol - while travelling in popular backpacker town Vang Vieng.

Now living in Brisbane, 28-year-old Ms Clarke has launched a petition to raise awareness about methanol poisoning risks - calling for education in UK schools.

The friends had been backpacking across south-east Asia, starting in Cambodia - and had reached Laos full of excitement.

The pair had spent the day tubing down the river - a popular tourist activity - before returning to their hostel for a night of drinking.

Ms Clarke has now recalled: 'We had methanol-laced shots - we had five or six each, just mixing them with Sprite.

'The next morning, we didn't feel right, but we just assumed it was a hangover. It was strange, though - unlike any hangover I'd had before.

Bethany Clarke (left) and Simone White (right), both from Orpington in south-east London , were on a night out in Laos last November when six shots resulted in tragedy

London solicitor Ms White, 28, died after unknowingly consuming bootleg alcohol

These two bottles are said to be similar to the ones thought to have poisoned the backpackers

'It felt like being drunk but in a way where you couldn't enjoy it - something was just off.'

Despite their condition, they continued with their plans - heading to the surrounding area's Blue Lagoon and kayaking down the river again.

Ms Clarke added: 'We were just lying on the backs of the kayaks, too weak to paddle. Simone was being sick off one of them.

'Neither of us wanted to swim or eat - which, we later learned, are early signs of methanol poisoning.'

After later boarding a bus to their next destination, Ms Clarke fainted and Ms White kept vomiting before both were taken to a local hospital that Ms Clarke has now described as 'very poor'.

She added: 'They had no idea what was wrong. They talked about food poisoning, but we hadn't eaten the same things. It didn't make sense.'

Still confused and deteriorating, the group then made it to a private hospital for Ms White to receive further treatment.

Ms Clarke said: 'They told me they'd do all they could to save her. She was having seizures during dialysis.

Simone White was one of six tourists who tragically died following a mass methanol poisoning at a hostel bar in Vang Vieng, Laos, last November

The Nana Backpackers Hostel, where the fatal poisoning took place in November

'I was told at one point there was a 70 per cent chance she'd recover. I still had hope.'

When Ms White's condition worsened, her mother Sue White flew out to Laos - arriving just as her daughter was being wheeled into emergency brain surgery.

Ms Clarke added: 'Her brain had started to swell and they had to shave her head. The surgery relieved the pressure but caused bleeding and the other side started swelling.'

The results confirming methanol poisoning would not arrive until two weeks later, by which time Ms White had died.

Ms Clarke is now petitioning for methanol and bootleg alcohol awareness to be included in schools - teaching students the risks of unregulated drinks abroad.

She said: 'With methanol poisoning, you don't think straight. It's like dementia - you can't make decisions, and you can't problem-solve.

'Organised crime is rife, you think alcohol is safe - but unless it's beer or alcohol you have purchased from duty free, anything else consumed is a gamble.

'People have died in restaurants, even after buying bottles from supermarkets. You just never know.'

British lawyer Simone White, 28, outside the Laos hostel days before she died from methanol poisoning

She and her supporters are planning a hard-hitting educational video, similar in tone to drink-driving public service announcements shown in schools.

Her petition has so far garnered more than 3,000 signatures, towards a goal of 10,000.

She added: 'Even if people can't sign the petition, I want them to know about the risks.'

The other victims in Laos were 57-year-old American James Huston, two 19-year-old Australian women Holly Morton-Bowles and Bianca Jones and Danish friends Anne-Sofie Orkild Coyman, 20, and Freja Sorensen, 21.
One of Britain's youngest councillors has claimed she was bullied into quitting the Labour Party after she was branded a racist for calling for CCTV to be put in minicabs.

Daisy Blakemore-Creedon, 19, claimed she had been subjected to bullying and anti-Semitic abuse as she announced her abrupt resignation from the group at Peterborough City Council.

She alleged fellow Labour councillors had accused her of racism when she raised safety concerns about the citys council-licensed minicabs, many of which are operated by Asian men.

She said she was left 'deeply disturbed' to be accused of 'targeting fellow Asian Labour councillors'.

Ms Blakemore-Creedon flatly denied the accusations, saying it had nothing to do with ethnicity.

The young councillor, whose mother is Jewish, was also accused by one Labour supporter of being 'on the payroll' of Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reported The Telegraph.

She will now sit on the council as an independent and says she and her family have been left disappointed by the fallout.

Ms Blakemore-Creedon added: 'I'm so disappointed with all this because my morals have always been Labour. Labour is in my blood. My grandfather was a major supporter. But my entire family have been left really disappointed as well.

Daisy Blakemore-Creedon, 19, (pictured as she celebrated her election win last year) claimed she had been subjected to bullying and anti-Semitic abuse as she announced her resignation from Labour at Peterborough City Council

She alleged fellow Labour councillors had accused her of racism when she raised safety concerns of passengers using council-licensed cabs, many of which are operated by Asian men

'When I argued for more safety measures in minicabs it led to a lot of ugly comments by people in the Labour group. I got messages from fellow Labour councillors accusing me of racism because lots of the cab drivers are Asian.

'But I wasn't targeting Asian drivers. I was talking about safeguarding for everyone, passengers and drivers.'

Ms Blakemore-Creedon announced her resignation from Labour on Monday in a message on X.

'I feel as though I have sustained bullying and marginalisation within the group after raising serious concerns - concerns which, in my view, were not treated with the seriousness they deserved,' she said.

'Following this, I was deeply disturbed to find myself accused of racism, with suggestions that I and my family were "targeting fellow Asian Labour councillors".

'These accusations are completely unfounded and deeply hurtful. I have also raised a formal complaint regarding these matters, which has now been delayed twice, reportedly due to concerns about the political impact on the party, rather than a focus on justice or resolution.'

She added that she no longer had any confidence to serve constituents as a Labour member, before later telling The Telegraph she is happy to trigger a by-election although 'lots of my ward residents' have said they will support her as an independent.

Ms Blakemore-Creedon joined the Labour Party aged 14 before her historic election win last year at the age of 18, a week before she sat her A Levels.

Her decision to walk away from the party comes days after she had taken to the social media platform to reveal the last 12 months had 'been one of the toughest, most eye-opening experiences of my life'.

She will now sit on the council as an independent and says she and her family have been left disappointed by the fallout

Ms Blakemore-Creedon said the racism accusations made against her are completely unfounded and deeply hurtful

'Being young in this space is hard,' she said on X last Friday.

'People question your ability before you even speak. They assume you're inexperienced, naive, or just a token. Add to that being a young woman, and it gets harder.

'I've sat in rooms where I wasn't taken seriously, where I've been interrupted, talked over, or patronised. I've dealt with inappropriate comments, unwanted attention, and had my competence judged on appearance rather than action.

'There have been moments that left me shaken, angry, and wondering if I truly belonged. And yet I've stayed. I've held my ground. I've reminded myself again and again: you earned your place.

'I didn't come here to be liked. I came to fight for my community, to represent the people who put their trust in me, and to show other young women that you can step into spaces that weren't built for you and own them.'

Leader of Peterborough city council and of the Labour group, Dennis Jones, told the BBC's Local Democracy Reporting Service that he was 'disappointed' by Ms Blakemore-Creedon's decision to resign.

Last year Ms Blakemore-Creedon posted a picture of herself smiling with Rachel Reeves ahead of Labour's election win, something she described as an honour and a 'wow moment'

Three months into her stint as a councillor she told of how she was 'excited' to be a role model for the younger generation, but said not all of her friends were happy about her new role as she 'can't go out partying like a lot of 18 year olds'

Last month Ms Blakemore-Creedon posed for picture in her constituency saying she was pleased to see the newly refreshed white fencing that she helped support with local funding

'Nevertheless, the Peterborough City Council Labour Group will continue to work hard to deliver for local residents as we always have,' he said.

A Labour Party spokesperson added: 'All complaints are assessed thoroughly in line with the Labour Party's rules and procedures.'

Last year Ms Blakemore-Creedon posted a picture of herself smiling with Rachel Reeves ahead of Labour's election win, something she described as an honour and a 'wow moment'.

Three months into her stint as a councillor she told of how she was 'excited' to be a role model for the younger generation, but said not all of her friends were happy about her new role as she 'can't go out partying like a lot of 18 year olds'.

'I'm my own woman. I'm here in my own right. I grew up in a council house and I watched my mum use a food bank, all of those aspects mean I have knowledge of the world that other people might not have,' she told the BBC.

She also discussed how it wasn't safe as a young female to campaign by herself and had been labelled as the 'baby' by the group.

Her Facebook page is full of posts of her canvassing with the local Labour group.

While in 2022, when aged 17, she posted a picture of herself near the Houses of Parliament wearing a baseball cap and holding a 'Support The Strikes' poster as she took part in her first protest.

Ms Blakemore-Creedon joined the Labour Party aged 14 before her historic election win last year at the age of 18, a week before she sat her A Levels

She has also previously opened up about her battle living with kidney disease and being diagnosed with PTSD after she contracted deadly E. Coli when she was aged 8

She has also previously opened up about her battle living with kidney disease and being diagnosed with PTSD after she contracted deadly E. Coli when she was aged 8.

Speaking to Greatest Hits Radio she said: 'When I was 16 I lost control completely of my bladder because of the kidney disease.

'That is something I struggle with daily and have to live with.

'Having PSTD after the hospital was an awful experience. Coming out of the hospital, I had lots of therapy sessions and lots of sleepless nights waking up and recalling my hospital experience. It was a struggle.'
A council has called in guards to stop tourists from touching the breasts of Molly Malone's statue after claims the gesture is damaging it.

The bronze statue, which is a popular landmark for tourists in Dublin, has been a target for many visitors to the city.

Tradition dictates that anyone who touches the statue's assets will have good luck.

As a result, throughout the years, thousands of tourists have approached and groped her breasts.

However, after a campaigner began to notice the trend, she has now taken it on herself to make sure the habit ends for good.

Tilly Cripwell has called on Dublin City Council to raise the 1988 statue out of reach so people can no longer grope the metal body part.

The student claimed she has seen tourists touch the statue's chest up to 60 times per hour and the the tradition has tarnished the likeness of the local folk hero.

And now the council has brought in stewards to guard the statue and make sure tourists who want to get a closer look are stopped.

Dublin City Council will deploy stewards to deter people from groping a statue of Irish folklore figure Molly Malone, seen here, in the belief that it will bring good luck

Concerns about the practice have been raised by Tilly Cripwell, above, a student who busks near the statue. She said plans to introduce stewards were 'short sighted and quite short term'

Touching the statue's breasts, a custom said to bring good fortune, has tarnished the effigy

Who was Molly Malone? Molly Malone is a legendary figure from Dublin folklore, famously featured in the song 'Cockles and Mussels'. She's often depicted as a beautiful fishmonger who tragically died young, and shes become a symbol of the cityeven if theres no historical proof she actually existed. The song tells the story of a young woman who sold seafood on the streets of Dublin, crying 'Cockles and mussels, alive, alive, oh!' She was beloved but died young of a fever, and the song ends with her ghost still pushing her cart through the city. It's a bittersweet mix of charm and tragedy. A statue, crafted by Dublin artist Jeanne Rynhart, was unveiled on Grafton Street in 1988 as part of the city's Millennium celebrations, with Lord Mayor Ben Briscoe doing the honours. But in July 2014, Molly was moved to Suffolk Street outside the Tourist Information Office, giving up her old spot for new tram tracks. Advertisement

Every time a tourist tried to cop a feel of Dublin's most legendary bosom, one of the guards would firmly say: 'No touching please.'

This is part of a week-long pilot scheme while bosses come up with a different way of protecting the site.

The statue, by the late Irish sculptor Jeanne Rynhart, was unveiled on Grafton Street in 1988 before the construction of a tram line prompted a move to Suffolk Street, just over half a mile away, in 2014.

The council has not discounted the possibility of relocating it once again, and has also mooted the possibility of rendering the bronze less accessible by installing a taller plinth or railings.

But those considerations must be balanced against the expense involved and the need to maintain the sculpture as a safe tourist attraction, said the council.

Norwegian tourist Anders Oustid, 42, told The Guardian said he doesn't think people should be stopped, and called it a 'fun gimmick', adding that 'It's good luck and apparently means that you'll get to come back to Dublin'.

Mars Masana, 33, from Barcelona, who touched the cleavage on a previous visit, said: 'I suppose in Spain we would feel the same if people were touching such a statue all the time.'

17-year-old Elaja Declercq from Belgium obeyed the orders but regretted the decision saying that she understood the feelings that it was inappropriate but insisted that it was a tradition worth keeping.

Campaigner Ms Cripwell previosuly told Good Morning Britain: 'I would like for her to be raised on a higher statue to symbolically and physically elevate her, and prevent people from clambering all over her.'

But she faced backlash on social media, with people reminding the student that the model is 'a statue, not a real person'.

'Imagine a life so dull and empty that you start a campaign to move a statue because you think it's being touch inappropriately. It's not a real person,' one wrote on X.

'Oh please be quiet! It's a statue not a real person!' another said.
The conclave to elect a new Pope has been hit by a controversy after an African cardinal claimed he 'hadn't been invited'.

Cardinal John Njue, 79, is eligible to join the other 133 cardinals, from 70 countries, who are gathering in the Vatican for the start of the secretive process which begins this afternoon in the Sistine Chapel.

But in an interview the Kenyan clergyman suggested dark forces were at work in a scenario that could have come straight out of Ralph Fiennes papal blockbuster Conclave.

Speaking to Kenyan newspaper Daily Nation cardinal Njue said:' Those who go there for the election are usually sent official invites, and that has not happened on my part.

'The fact is that I have not been invited. I don't know why I've been excluded, if I'm not there it's not because I am in poor health.'

Italian media immediately jumped on his comments and said it had 'sparked mystery and intrigue'.

Cardinal Njue, who is Archbishop of Nairobi, has been at the forefront of preparations for the conclave after he and another African cardinal had their 'official ages' revised by the Vatican.

Earlier this month the Vatican updated its directory to say that Cardinal Njue was born in 1946  changing it from 1944  making him eligible to vote in the conclave.

Cardinal Njue, who is Archbishop of Nairobi, has been at the forefront of preparations for the conclave after he and another African cardinal had their 'official ages' revised by the Vatican

A view of the Synod Hall during the twelfth and final General Congregation of Cardinals the day before the beginning of the Conclave, on May 06, 2025 in Vatican City, Vatican

US Cardinals Wilton Gregory, Blase Cupich, Joseph Tobin, Timothy Dolan and Robert McElroy prepare to leave the Pontifical North American College ahead of the conclave, in Rome, Italy May 6, 2025.

While cardinal Philippe Quedraogo had his date of birth listed initially as January 1945 making him too old as the cut off is 80 for the conclave but it was then revised to December 1945 meaning he could vote.

In a statement Cardinal Njue's diocese in Nairobi appeared to contradict him as they insisted he was 'unable to take part because of ill health' adding 'let us pray for his good health'.

Cardinal Njue was made a cardinal by Pope Benedict in 2007 and is seen as a conservative, strong on family values and traditional Church teachings and not cut from the same cloth as the more liberal Pope Francis.

A Vatican spokesperson insisted that cardinal Njue had 'been invited but was not attending because of poor health'.

One commentator said:' It's a intriguing situation  the cardinal claims he isn't ill and the Vatican says he is  who is telling the truth ? Does someone not want him at the conclave?'

Cardinals will gather this morning at 10am local time for a mass inside St Peter's Basilica led by cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, before heading off to the Sistine Chapel this afternoon for the first vote to decide who will succeed Pope Francis who died last month aged 88.

Once at the Chapel the master of papal liturgical ceremonies, Archbishop Diego Ravelli, will shout out in Latin 'Extra omnes,' 'all out,' and anyone not eligible to vote leaves, the doors close, and the process will begin.

On Tuesday the 133 cardinals who are eligible to vote gathered at the Santa Marta guest house in the Vatican where they will stay for the duration of the conclave cut off from the outside world.

The Sistine Chapel and the 'Room of Tears' is ready for the conclave, where 133 cardinals will descend to elect a new pope

Each cardinal - 133 in total - will have a ballot in the conclave, with the vote taking place in the Sistine Chapel

The Vatican will use signal jamming around the Sistine Chapel and the residences to prevent electronic surveillance or communication outside the conclave

Your browser does not support iframes.

They will not have access to any electronic communication and the Sistine Chapel has also been swept for bugs to ensure no one can listen in as the cardinals debate who should lead the Catholic Church.

The telephone signal will also be jammed from 3pm so that no one can contact them as they debate under the hallowed, frescoed ceiling of Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel, 'guided only by God and the Holy Spirit' as to who should be Pope.

The first votes will be cast this evening, and the world will know the outcome when smoke is seen coming from the roof of the Sistine Chapel  white smoke means a Pope has been chosen while black means the jury is still out.

The winner is whoever gets two thirds of the votes, and tonight's first smoke is expected to be black while some Italian. Media is speculating a decision could come as early as Thursday night.

To get the colour of the smoke the ballot papers are burnt and chemicals are added and there are two votes in the morning and two in the afternoon with the cardinals returning to Santa Marta in between for meals.

Wine is allowed but spirits are banned and the favourite at the moment is said to be Pietro Parolin, Pope Francis number two and Vatican Secretary of State, who is said to have around 50 cardinals backing him.

In the last Conclave to elect Pope Francis, cardinals took two days, and it was the same length of time for Pope Benedict. The shortest Conclave was ten hours while the longest was just under three years, from 1268-1271.
In his youth, he collected manure to sell to allotment owners; later, he went on to work as a tanner and an HGV driver, before supporting the British war effort in India and Burma.

But all that was in another lifetime, before Arthur Ferguson really hit his stride.

Mr Ferguson, who celebrated his 100th birthday two months ago, is Britain's oldest shopkeeper.

He opened a bakery in the Cumbrian coastal town of Millom in 1950 and has not looked back since, a living embodiment of the principle that all good businesses must adapt to survive.

Before long, the bakery became a haberdashery, and now the quadruple-fronted store on Wellington Street offers an array of goods and services, from school uniforms and household goods to dry cleaning and made-to-measure blinds.

The shop has become a bastion of the local community and, having made it his life, the father of two is not about to step about away anytime soon. In fact, Mr Ferguson does not think he will ever retire.

'I quite enjoy it, it's good,' he said. 'I like that we sell a range of stuff - ladies', gents' and children's clothes, school wear, bedding, clocks.

'I've worked in retail all my life, apart from army service. I don't think I'll retire.'

At the age of 100, Arthur Ferguson is Britain's oldest shopkeeper. He opened his eponymous shop in the Cumbrian coastal town of Millom in 1950 - and has not looked back since

Over the course of more than seven decades, Mr Ferguson's store on Wellington Street has become a bastion of the local community

Arthur Ferguson is pictured aged 20, during his time with the the first Lincolnshire regiment. The second world war veteran has retained a lasting bond with those he fought alongside

That will come as welcome news not only to staff, who have described him as a man who 'likes life and likes to see people', but also to customers in a town where everybody knows the world war two veteran.

David Ferguson, who at 62 is the younger of his two sons - the other is Mark, 70 - is not so sure his father could relinquish the reins even he wanted to.

'If I took over the shop tomorrow, then he would still come down,' said David. 'He's the type of guy who would come to make sure that everything is OK and running properly.

'He's been hands-on forever. I have no intention of slowing him down, he likes going.'

Born in Blackley, Manchester on March 8, 1925, Mr Ferguson had retail in his blood from the very beginning.

As a child, he lived with his mother above the corner shop she ran in Millom - his father having died when he was young - and contributed to the business from an early age, when he would cut firewood kindling to sell in the store.

By the age of 16, he was working as a truck driver for a local tannery, untroubled by the fact that he could not drive.

'In those days, it was enough for him to be sent to the post office to buy an HGV licence, with no test necessary,' David recently told The Mail in South Cumbria.

Arthur Ferguson is pictured with his late wife Cicely Simm in 1995. The couple initially started their business as a bakery, but adapted with the changing times

Age is apparently no barrier to Mr Ferguson, who continues to play an active role in the business, doing the books and making regular trips to Manchester to obtain stock

Born in Blackley, Manchester on March 8, 1925, Mr Ferguson had retail in his blood from the very beginning, spending his early years living above a corner shop run by his mother

'On his first trip, he was sent to Leicester with leather for army boots.

'There were no road signs, no sat nav and when he stopped to ask directions, the public assumed him to be a German spy and sent him the wrong way.

'Millom to Leicester is about three and half hours today - and he was gone about a week.'

Once he resurfaced, Mr Ferguson underwent infantry training in Ireland, the Cumbrian village of Rampside and Durham before joining the first Lincolnshire regiment.

Following a postwar sojourn in Singapore, he returned to Millom and married his late wife Cicely Simm, with whom he built the business that would become his lifeblood.

Mr Ferguson retained a deep bond with the men he fought alongside, as well as an enduring appetite for travel.

'He used to drive with his car and his caravan all the way to Venice,' added David. 'He's got friends there from those days.

'He would spend three weeks there on a holiday and then would drive back again. He's been on cruises and travelled to the Far East.'

'He also likes to play the organ and used to sell them at one point.'

Mr Ferguson continues to work six days a week and regularly visits Manchester to obtain new stock for his shop. Retirement is not on the agenda.
Police were too slow to stamp out deadly misinformation that fuelled the riots that gripped Britain in the wake of the Southport knife rampage, a report has found.

Sir Andy Cooke, the Chief Inspector of Constabulary, said misinformation and disinformation posted on social media helped fuel the disorder that broke out across England last summer and that posts were left up too long.

The murders of Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Da Silva Aguiar, nine, at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class on July 29 last year sparked riots in Southport which quickly spread across other parts of the country.

Within hours, misinformation spread that the attacker, Axel Rudakubana, was a Muslim asylum seeker who had recently arrived in Britain on a small boat.

The 17-year-old, who is serving a life sentence with a minimum of 52 years, was actually born in Cardiff to Christian parents who arrived in Britain from Rwanda in the 1990s.

Researchers say there were at least 27 million impressions on social media posts wrongly stating or speculating that the alleged attacker was Muslim, a migrant, refugee or foreigner.

A total of 1,511 rioters were arrested and 960 charged in connection with the unrest that first broke out in Merseyside a day after the triple killing and would later engulf the nation in a wave of violence.

His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services has called on social media companies, Ofcom and the police to take quicker action to tackle false information in times of disorder.

Riot police hold back protesters after disorder broke out in Southport on July 30 - a day after the knife attack

Within hours, misinformation spread that the attacker, Axel Rudakubana (pictured), was a Muslim asylum seeker who had recently arrived in Britain on a small boat

Bebe King and Elside Dot Stancombe were two of the girls fatally stabbed by Rudakubana

Alice da Silva Aguiar (pictured) was the third murder victim at the Taylor Swift-themed dance class

Sir Andy, the head of the watchdog, said force chiefs should consider how to be more open with journalists from established mainstream media outlets about all major investigations to counter false information.

He spoke to journalists as the watchdog's second report on the policing response to the riots was published.

The report said forces had not heeded recommendations given by the inspectorate in 2011 and 2021 about intelligence relating to disorder, as well as dealing with social media.

'Forces can't control or counter the speed and volume of online content, that goes without saying, but they need to better appreciate how fast-moving events will require them to counter the false narratives online and be innovative in their approach,' he said.

'They need to fill the information void that we saw throughout this disorder that was filled with so much misinformation and disinformation, because that misinformation, disinformation, could go viral very, very quickly.

'So policing cannot be passive when public safety is at risk.'

Sir Andy said the causes of the disorder were 'complex', adding: 'Predominantly, people who took part lived locally. But the events that led to the arrests of those involved included largely overt expressions of disaffection that took place online and on the streets of UK towns and cities.

Irrespective of the causes, those involved cannot be excused for their actions.

'The police service needs to learn lessons from previous outbreaks of disorder; it should not be caught off-guard again.

The report said forces had not heeded recommendations given by the inspectorate in 2011 and 2021 about intelligence relating to disorder, as well as dealing with social media. Pictured: Riots in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, over the summer

A police car burns as officers are deployed on the streets of Hartlepool following a violent protest on July 31

'It needs to develop a more cohesive intelligence network that informs and supports the police response to simmering tension and unrest.'

Sir Andy said he was 'disappointed' that the police service has still not held a 'national debrief to learn lessons' more than nine months after the disorder.

'Inaction detracts from the good work the police did during the disorder, and it harms the service's reputation,' he said.

Some forces have an 'exceptionally limited' ability to deal with content online due to a lack of resources, the report said.

But the chairman of the National Police Chiefs' Council, Gavin Stephens, said 'a more balanced assessment' is needed.

He said: 'While there are lessons to learn, it is crucial to acknowledge that law enforcement does not - and should not - regulate online content.

'Responsibility for ensuring information is accurate and does not fuel harm lies with those posting it, platform providers and regulatory bodies.'

Protesters spray fire extinguishers at riot police officers during scenes of unrest in Sunderland on August 2

Riot police hold back protesters after disorder broke out on July 30, 2024 in Southport

False information about the alleged perpetrator of the Southport attack received more than 27million impressions on Twitter as violence erupted in 27 towns. Pictured: Protesters near a burning police vehicle in Southport on July 30 2024

The report included a comment from one force head of communications who told inspectors the police service had 'no proper answer' for managing misinformation and disinformation.

Mr Stephens continued: 'The report states that policing has 'no proper answer' for tackling misinformation and disinformation, but the issue extends far beyond law enforcement.

'No public sector organisation or body responsible for public safety is fully equipped to address the scale and complexity of the problem.

'Policing alone cannot be expected to lead or resolve this volatile challenge; it requires a co-ordinated, cross-government approach. This reality must be acknowledged.'

He said communications staff had made sure accurate information and the consequences of getting involved in violent disorder were clearly and widely communicated.

The report found that the disorder was predictable, despite national assessments that said the risk of unrest was low.

'National police intelligence assessments didn't correctly assess the risk and threat to public safety from a rising tide of disorder,' the report found.

'Grading the threat and risk of disorder as 'low' was wrong and influenced the timeliness of national mobilisation decisions.'

It said the lack of a police intelligence network dealing specifically with disorder is a problem, and called for a return to neighbourhood policing so officers are more aware of tensions in their area.

While dramatic events fuel greater use of social media sites, tech companies must also be responsible about public safety, Sir Andy told journalists.

'It is great for them, but they've got to have social responsibility as well.

'These companies have got to have responsibility, irrespective of whether they are led from China, led from America.'

He called for the communications watchdog to get beefed-up powers to take posts down more quickly, and said the Online Safety Act has 'little or no bearing on the real-time effects of online content during instances of rapidly evolving, widespread disorder'.

'Ofcom needs to have the proper capacity and capability to (get posts taken down) quickly if it's going to be effective,' Sir Andy said.

'And in a national disorder issue like you saw, the speed of some of these posts that are going up makes it really difficult to get them down quickly.

'If you don't get them down quickly, they spread virally.'

Laws around what is classed as inciting public disorder should also be tightened up so there are tougher consequences for those who knowingly post false information online, he said.

The chairwoman of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, Emily Spurrell, said: 'It is extremely concerning that the inspectorate finds forces have failed to learn lessons following previous incidents of widespread violent disorder.

'Technology is transforming society, and it is vital the police service keeps up with that.

'If our police are to respond to the kind of trouble we saw last summer, forces must prioritise investing time, resources and in the technology to identify those who might incite, promote and organise disorder on our streets.

'They need to develop the capability to monitor online sources, recognising and acting on intelligence of potential violence.'
A woman who died after eating a beef Wellington laced with death cap mushrooms told a doctor it tasted 'delicious', a court heard Wednesday, as her Australian host faced triple murder charges.

Erin Patterson, 50, is accused of murdering the parents and aunt of her estranged husband by cooking and serving up the poisonous beef-and-pastry meal.

She is also charged with the attempted murder of her husband's uncle, who survived the dish after a long stay in hospital.

Patterson has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

A hospital doctor testified about two of the four poisoned lunch guests - Heather Wilkinson and her husband Ian, a pastor.

He treated the pair, who are the aunt and uncle of Erin Patterson's husband, when they were rushed to hospital suffering from vomiting and diarrhoea.

When the couple first arrived, they were 'conscious' and 'alert', doctor Christopher Webster told the court in Morwell, southeast of Melbourne.

'They were clearly unwell but were not distressed. They were both able to freely communicate,' he said.

Erin Patterson (seen here in a court sketch) is accused of murdering the parents and aunt of her estranged husband

Heather and Ian Wilkinson (both pictured) were both violently ill after eating Erin's meal

A day earlier, they lunched on individually prepared beef Wellingtons at Erin Patterson's home in the sedate Victoria state farm village of Leongatha, the court has heard.

The doctor said he initially suspected the couple had food poisoning from the meat in the beef Wellington.

'I did ask Heather what the beef Wellington tasted like and she said it was delicious,' he told the court.

The next morning, a doctor from another hospital called him to say the two other lunch guests - Erin's parents-in-law Don and Gail Patterson - had suspected poisoning from death cap mushrooms.

Ian and Heather Wilkinson were then transferred for acute care at another hospital.

Within days, three of the four lunch guests were dead. Ian Wilkinson, the pastor, lived after weeks of hospital treatment.

The court has heard lunch host Erin Patterson's estranged husband, Simon, had been invited to the meal but declined, saying he was uncomfortable with the prospect.

Erin Patterson went to hospital two days after the lunch, but left five minutes later against medical advice, the doctor said.

Erin Patterson went to hospital two days after the lunch, but left five minutes later against medical advice

Erin is alleged to have fed the group fatal Death Cap Mushrooms

The Leongatha home where the deadly lunch was served

Erin Patterson in the days following the deadly lunch

'I was surprised,' he told the court.

Patterson later returned and told Webster her children had also consumed the beef Wellington - but not the mushrooms or pastry.

She was hesitant to tell them about the poisoning in case they became 'frightened', the doctor said.

'I said: 'They can be scared and alive or dead'.'

The court also heard from another of Don and Gail Patterson's sons - Matthew - who said he had called the lunch host to ask where the mushrooms came from.

Erin Patterson told him she bought some of the mushrooms at a 'Chinese shop', but could not recall which one, he said.

Matthew said he thought the accused was a devoted mother who had a positive relationship with his parents.

The prosecution alleges Erin Patterson deliberately poisoned her lunch guests and took care that neither she, nor her children, consumed the deadly mushrooms.

Her defence says it was 'a terrible accident' and that Patterson ate the same meal as the others but did not fall as sick.

The trial is expected to last six weeks.
An alligator killed a woman after dragging her from her canoe while she paddled on a popular fishing lake in Florida.

The woman had been near the mouth of Tiger Creek into Lake Kissimmee, south of Orlando, when she was attacked just after 4pm on Tuesday, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) said.

The woman went into the water and wasn't seen again until her body was recovered nearby, FWC added.

The woman had been with another person at the time of the attack, sheriff's officials said.

The emergency response included Fish and Wildlife Conservation officers and Polk County sheriff's deputies.

The sheriff's office said in a separate statement that the woman was in a kayak, distinguished by an enclosed hull, with another person who wasn't reported injured.

But a commission spokesperson said the agency believes it was a canoe  also a paddle-powered vessel, but one with an open hull.

Investigators did not release any details about the attack or the alligator.

A contracted nuisance alligator trapper has been dispatched to the area.

An alligator killed a woman after dragging her from her canoe while she paddled on a popular fishing lake in Florida. Pictured: Authorities investigating the attack

The woman had been near the mouth of Tiger Creek into Lake Kissimmee, south of Orlando, when she was attacked just after 4pm on Tuesday, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said. Pictured: Stock image of Lake Kissimmee

Investigators did not release any details about the attack or the alligator. A contracted nuisance alligator trapper has been dispatched to the area (stock image)

FWC administers a nuisance alligator programme to remove creatures believed to pose a threat to people, pets or property.

Lake Kissimmee State Park offers visitors the opportunity to 'explore the 35,000 acres of Lake Kissimmee and the neighboring lakes and creeks on the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes', the Florida State Parks website says.

It adds: 'Boating activities include wildlife viewing, sightseeing, bass fishing and pan fishing on some of Floridas most pristine waterways.'

Serious injuries caused by alligators are rare in Florida, officials said.

But the horror comes after a string of recent alligator attacks in the state.

Last year an 84-year-old South Florida woman was hospitalized with brutal injuries after she and her pet were attacked by a seven-foot long alligator.

Del Boppel and her dog Queen were out on a walk near a pond located close her Julia Mobile Home Park home at around 7pm on September when she spotted the predator.

'All of a sudden, I had a premonition, I'm telling you. It was like, 'uh-uh', Boppel said from her hospital bed.

Seconds later, as the 7'3' alligator bit Boppel on her right leg, she threw Queen in the air and punched the animal in its face.

'It was like a torpedo. I didn't see anything go that fast in my life. I didn't have time to think,' Boppel said.

The gator managed to take a chunk of her leg and fingers before scurrying away - leaving her with 'significant' injuries to her arms and a wrist.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Lee County Sheriff's Office and Lee County Emergency Medical Services also responded to a 911 call made by a neighbor.

According to NBC News, a nuisance alligator trapper later found the animal and 'humanely euthanized' the predator.

Meanwhile earlier the same year another Florida woman' leg was savaged by an eight feet alligator as she swam in a river.

Rachel Thompson was going through her daily morning routine of yoga and jogging when she went down to the Hillsborough River near her Temple Terrace home.

And in June 2024 horrifying bodycam footage showed a bloated 14ft alligator with the body of a 41-year-old mother in its stomach.

Sabrina Peckham was eaten by the alligator after being dragged by the beast into a canal in Clearwater.

Peckham was unhoused at the time and had been staying at an encampment close to where the alligator was located and killed.

Footage from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission showed the aftermath of the deadly attack.

Video shows the huge gator surrounded by police moments after it was shot to death. Its stomach is visibly swollen with Peckham inside.
The UK-India trade deal will not undercut British workers, a top minister insisted today amid a row over a tax break for migrant workers.

Business secretary Jonathan Reynolds, the architect of the agreement, came out swinging this morning as Labour faced a major backlash to the 5bn agreement announced yesterday.

Under the agreement, tens of thousands of temporary Indian workers will be exempt from paying National Insurance in Britain, making them cheaper to hire.

New Delhi heralded the deal as an 'unprecedented' win, but the UK Prime Minister was accused of introducing 'two-tier taxes' after National Insurance contributions for British firms were increased in last year's Budget.

Writing for MailOnline, shadow business secretary Andrew Griffith said it could put 'hardworking Brits and British companies ... at a competitive disadvantage against Indian companies bringing in Indian workers'.

But Mr Reynolds this morning said critics of the deal were 'confused' and suggested unhappy Tories were jealous they had not managed to achieve a deal when they were in government.

Speaking to the BBC he said the UK has similar deals with 50 other countries including the US, Japan and Chile, the latter getting a five-year exemption from the Tories a few years ago.

Asked whether the agreement meant Indian workers paying less tax than British counterparts doing the same job, Mr Reynolds told the Today programme: 'No.'

He added: 'There is no situation where I would ever tolerate British workers being undercut through any trade agreement we would sign. That is not part of this deal.

New Delhi heralded the deal as an 'unprecedented' win, but the UK Prime Minister was accused of introducing 'two-tier taxes' after National Insurance contributions for British firms were increased in last year's Budget.

Business secretary Jonathan Reynolds, the architect of the agreement, came out swinging this morning as Labour faced a major backlash to the 5bn agreement announced yesterday.

Asked whether the agreement meant Indian workers paying less tax than British counterparts doing the same job, Mr Reynolds told the Today programme: 'No.'

'What the Conservatives are confused about, and Reform as well, is a situation where a business in India seconds someone for a short period of time to the UK, or a UK business seconds a worker to India for a short period of time, where you don't pay in simultaneously now to both social security systems.'

The agreement will see workers who are seconded to the UK offices of Indian-based employers, or a multi-national with offices in the country, exempt from NI for the first three years  allowing them to avoid paying both at home, as per Indian law, and in the UK.

The firm will also not have to pay the contributions. The deal will be reciprocal for British workers transferred to workplaces in India.

Officials have not provided an assessment of the cost or impact on UK businesses.

The change is understood to have been a key demand by New Delhis negotiators who said the agreement, which has been three years in the making, will result in significant financial gains for Indian companies.

The deal will also see the UK lower tariffs on clothes, shoes and food such as frozen prawns from the subcontinent, in exchange for reciprocal cuts for products including whisky and cars.

Writing for MailOnline, shadow business secretary Andrew Griffith said it could put 'hardworking Brits and British companies ... at a competitive disadvantage against Indian companies bringing in Indian workers'.

The tax break was not mentioned by Downing Street in its announcement.

But a statement by the Indian government said it would 'lead to significant financial gains for the Indian service providers and enhance their competitiveness in the UK market that would create new job opportunities as well as benefit large number of Indians working in the UK'.

Grim figures yesterday revealed the UKs services sector had shrunk for the first time in 18 months, blamed on the NI increase  which came into force in April  and Donald Trumps trade war.

Ministers say the long-coveted agreement will add 4.8 billion a year to the economy by 2040, with dramatic reductions to levies on scotch whisky, car and other exports from Britain.

More than a dozen rounds of talks involving successive governments have taken place since 2022.

Mr Reynolds and Indian commerce minister Piyush Goyal held final talks in London last week after relaunching negotiations two months ago.

'Two-tier' Keir has sold British workers down the river, writes Andrew Griffith

Keir Starmer campaigned energetically for a second referendum with free movement of people.

He used every trick in the book to try and prevent the UK leaving the EU.

He blocked our Brexit deal 48 times when he was Jeremy Corbyn's bag carrier.

How ironic then, that he is the biggest beneficiary of a Brexit benefit  the India trade deal.

I am yet to hear Labour Ministers crowing about the India Trade deal thank Brexit through gritted teeth for this free trade arrangement. I wont hold my breath.

Unlike the EU, India is on the up. It has an outstanding entrepreneurial spirit and British businesses do well exporting Scottish Whisky, cars, and high-tech aerospace products there. Its why we spent three long years doing the hard yards negotiating the deal.

It could boost our economy, provide some relief to bosses battered by this Labour government and improve trade with one of the fastest growing economies in the world.

But it seems that, as per usual, when Labour negotiates, Britain loses. And today, it is truer than ever  Two tier Keir has been up to his usual tricks, and sold British workers down the river.

Whilst Labour have hiked the Jobs Tax on British workers, they have given a tax cut to Indian workers.

That means hardworking Brits and British companies could be at a competitive disadvantage against Indian companies bringing in Indian workers.

Whilst Labour have hiked the Jobs Tax on British workers, they have given a tax cut to Indian workers.

Unsurprisingly, there was no mention of this own goal in any UK government announcement. But Narendra Modi proudly announced it himself and exposed what Keir Starmer tried to bury from the British public.

Labour tried to cover it up, but it was never going to work when the Indian government was so delighted with its negotiating victory. Theyve been caught in the act.

It means Indias biggest win is flooding the UK market with its people. Bizarrely, under this deal, yoga teachers, buskers and takeaway chefs now qualify as skilled labour  meaning they will also be able to bring their dependents. Keir Starmer seems determined to make us the soft touch immigration capital of the world and never misses an opportunity to surrender.

Already, because of Labours choices, business confidence is tanking, prices are up and growth is down, all while immigration and taxes are at record highs. In Labours desperation to try and undo some of the damage they have levelled on British businesses, they risk making everything significantly worse.

As with all of these things, the devil is in the detail. And we will look closely at the details of this deal, but it already seems to be unravelling before our eyes.
China are hastily escalating preparations for a military attact on Taiwan, a top US commander has warned.

Admiral Samuel Paparo, who heads up the US Indo-Pacific Command, said his forces had noticed a 'quick change' in the manoeuvres of the People's Liberation Army (PLA).

Chinese forces have continued to hold naval drills around the island following a major 'live fire' drill last month, prompting fears of a full-scale assault on the territory.

Admiral Paparo has now warned that Beijing's military escalation show they are ready to become a 'global force'.

He told a conference last week: 'You know the metaphor of boiling the frog. Well, it's a rapid boil. We notice quick change.

'I think the rates of change on the depth and breadth of their exercises is the one nonlinear effect that I've seen in the last year that wakes me up at night, that keeps me up at night.'

It is understood that President Xi Jinping has requested the military be prepared for an invasion of Taiwan by 2027.

In 2005 Beijing imposed an 'anti-secession' law, promising an annexation of Taiwan if it declares formal independence or is seen moving further away from mainland control.

Chinese forces have continued to hold naval drills around the island following a major 'live fire' drill last month

Admiral Paparo has now warned that Beijing 's military escalation show they are ready to become a 'global force'

It is understood that President Xi Jinping has requested the military be prepared for an invasion of Taiwan by 2027

Admiral Paparo suggested that recent Chinese drills were done in 'earnest' and represented the 'entire range of military operations, providing every option that they would want.'

'There are certain conditions where they might affect an invasion or some kind of coercive behavior before they believe they're fully ready,' he added.

Last month's exercises, called 'Strait Thunder 2025A', saw the PLA rehearsing the bombing of ports and energy facilities.

In one propaganda video, a PLA official says: 'If Taiwan loses its maritime supply lines, its domestic resources will quickly be depleted, social order will fall into chaos and people's livelihoods will be severely impacted.'

The commander's warnings were echoed by General Ronald P Clark, the newly appointed Commanding General of US Army Pacific,, who said Beijing's action in the South China Sea had left him and fellow officers 'speechless'.

'These are extraordinary times,' he told the Wall Street Journal.

'To think that you could execute a mission like that over a contested space that's roughly 80 nautical miles - it would be a challenge.

'We just have to make sure that they understand that our efforts to deter that type of activity is exactly what we're willing to do.'

The US has committed to defending Taiwan's sovereignty, with a Pentagon strategy document leaked in April stating that preventing 'a Chinese seizure of Taiwan' is Washington's most important military task.

Admiral Paparo also warned that China were expanding their military reach beyond the Taiwan Strait - as far as Australia and New Zealand.

Admiral Paparo suggested that recent Chinese drills were done in 'earnest' and represented the 'entire range of military operations, providing every option that they would want'

The US has committed to defending Taiwan's sovereignty, with a Pentagon strategy document leaked in April stating that preventing 'a Chinese seizure of Taiwan' is Washington's most important military task

Admiral Paparo also warned that China were expanding their military reach beyond the Taiwan Strait - as far as Australia and New Zealand

Ships seen circumnavigating Australia earlier this year were akin to the military 'stretching their legs,' he said.

'They're becoming a global force bit by bit,' he added.

Asked about the balance of power between the US and China, Admiral Paparo said he is convinced that Washington would prevail in a war, based on American military advantages in submarine warfare and counterspace and the ability to strike Chinese forces 'from the surface to the Karman line,' a zone 62 miles above Earth.

However, the trend for matching forces against the PLA is 'a bad trajectory.'

He said China is producing two submarines a year versus 1.4 for the United States and six warships for every 1.8 U.S. naval combatant.

China also produces 120 fighters yearly, compared with about 90 for the United States.
A young girl was found alive after surviving on chocolate while trapped inside her home alongside the bodies of her mother and brother.

A four-year-old girl was found in her New York home last month after her mother Lisa Cotton, 38, and her brother Nazir Millen, eight, were found dead by Cotton's eldest daughter.

Their landlord had initially raised the alarm after calling Cotton's father Hubert, 71, asking if she had moved out.

He told the New York Post: 'I had been trying to call her for days and she never answered. I figured she didn't answer me because she didn't want me to talk to me.'

Concerned, he sent Lisa's eldest daughter to the apartment to check on them, where she made the tragic discovery.

She found Nazir, who was disabled after being born prematurely, slumped in his chair next to a feeding tube.

The eldest daughter then went looking for her mother but found four-year-old Promise 'feeding herself with chocolate' on Cotton's bed.

'She picked her up and ran out and called the police,' Hubert said, with a transcript of the 911 call stating that she had seen 'bugs crawling' on Nazir's body.

A four-year-old girl was found in her New York home last month after her mother Lisa Cotton, 38, pictured, and her brother Nazir Millen, eight, were found dead by Cotton's eldest daughter

Police had completed a welfare check after receiving an anonymous 911 call, but no one answered the door to the second-floor flat

Crime scene unit investigators in protective clothing take out several evidence bags from the home

It is not known how long the mother and son had been dead before they were found, but neighbours had reportedly been complaining of a foul odor that smelled like 'death' for weeks.

Eric Perez, who lived above Cotton, said: 'The landlord hadn't done wellness checks, people had called, neighbors called.

'It just smells like rat infested... the exterminator said the same thing - the smell is similar to rats and even death.'

Police then completed a welfare check after receiving an anonymous 911 call, but no one answered the door to the second-floor flat.

And despite neighbours telling officers that they hadn't seen the mother or her children in two weeks, cops said they had no reason to break down the door as they did not hear any noises or notice any smells, police sources told the news site.

A neighbor added: '[The police] said they'd be back in a few days. One of the social workers said she was trying to get a court order to have the door broken in.'

Neighbours had also reportedly claimed they had heard 'screaming' coming from the apartment for several days.

After the bodies were discovered, neither reportedly showed any signs of trauma, and police told Hubert that they believed his daughter, who had asthma, may have died of cardiac arrest, leaving Nazir to tragically starve to death.

At approximately 8:26pm, police arrive at a New York apartment where they discover the dead mother and son inside

Personnel from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner remove the bodies of both the child and woman who are found deceased

There are no arrests, and the investigation is ongoing by the New York City Police Department

Promise is believed to have kept herself alive by eating chocolate she found in the family home, and was sent to a local hospital in stable condition.

Devastated Hubert is now taking care of Promise in his Bronx home and said of Nazir: 'He was so small. I held him in my palm. Like a bird, like a young bird.'

He thinks Promise may now be traumatised from living with the bodies of her mother and brother for several days, and explained that while she has not said anything, she often looks at him 'like she knows something'.

Hubert told the news outlet that Cotton had struggled with her mental health and believed she may have had bipolar disorder.

Police sources also claimed that the mother had an Administration for Childrens Services case pending against her, after she was arrested in June 2021 on child abandonment charges.

Sources said she had been acting erratically, swinging her young daughter around in a stroller and lighting a wig on fire in front of a commercial strip.

When the police arrived, she was allegedly found walking away from the child, and authorities said the case was later sealed.

An ACS spokesperson told the outlet that the incident is now under investigation.
Indian nationals accounted for the highest proportion of work visas issued to people applying to come to the UK last year - amid claims Sir Keir Starmer is favouring them over British workers by introducing a 'two-tier' tax system.

Under the terms of a new 5billion trade deal with New Delhi, tens of thousands of temporary Indian workers will be exempt from paying national insurance in Britain, making them cheaper to hire.

India heralded the change as an 'unprecedented' win but the Prime Minister was accused of undercutting British workers after NI contributions for UK firms were increased at last year's Budget, with many warning they be will forced to slash jobs or even shut down.

A total of 81,463 work-related visas were issued to Indians in 2024, meaning they accounted for 22 per cent of all those issued.

Some of them will now benefit from a tax break after Labour gave in to an Indian demand that workers and companies should not pay NI contributions on staff brought in to work in the UK if they are in the country for less than three years.

The policy, which will also apply to British workers in India, was justified on the basis that short-term employees should not have to contribute to social security provisions that they will not benefit from.

But Kemi Badenoch and Nigel Farage have both dubbed the Government's differing policies on National Insurance a 'two-tier' approach and insisted it will make British workers less attractive.

Of the 81,463 Indian nationals who were granted a work visa last year, 34,954 (43 per cent) were classed as main applicants and 46,509 (57 per cent) were classed as dependants, or immediate family members.

Your browser does not support iframes.

Sir Keir Starmer shaking hands with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Rio last year

The most common categories of work visa issued to Indians in 2024 were the health and care worker visa (30,301 out of 81,463, or 37%) and the skilled worker visa (27,922 or 34%).

Among the smaller categories were senior or specialist business workers (6,219 nationals), creative workers (1,860), international sportspeople (241), religious workers (148), seasonal workers (101) and religious ministers (70).

The total number of work visas issued to Indian nationals has halved year-on-year, from 162,655 in 2023 to 81,463 in 2024 (a drop of 50 per cent).

This is likely to reflect changes in legal migration rules introduced in early 2024 by the previous Conservative government, including a ban on overseas care workers bringing family dependants, and a steep rise in the salary threshold for skilled workers to 38,700.

The number of main applicants from India granted work visas fell 53 per cent year-on-year, while the number of dependants dropped 48 per cent.

A separate 419,312 study visas were issued by the UK in 2024, of which 92,355 (22%) were for Indian nationals - the second highest proportion after China (103,561 or 25%).

Almost all of the 92,355 visas were for main applicants: 88,909, or 96%.

The remaining 3,446 (4%) were for dependants.

Your browser does not support iframes.

International students cannot apply for a study visa unless they have an unconditional offer of a place on a course with a licensed student sponsor, such as a school, college or university.

The total number of study visas issued to Indian nationals has dropped year-on-year, from 159,371 in 2023 to 92,355 in 2024: a decrease of 42%.

This is again likely to reflect changes in migration rules implemented at the start of 2024, which stopped students bringing family members to the UK apart from those doing postgraduate research courses or on government-funded scholarships.

While the number of main applicants on study visas from India has fallen by 26%, from 119,970 in 2023 to 88,909 in 2024, the number of dependants is down by 91%, from 39,401 to 3,446.

The trade deal agreement said there would be more visas for yoga teachers as they were now classed as 'skilled workers', alongside chefs and musicians, capped at 1,800 a year.

The row over NI comes just days after Labour were battered in the local elections by voters who turned to Reform UK over concerns about immigration.

Conservative leader Ms Badenoch refused to agree to the deal when she was trade secretary over concerns about visas and fairness.

'This is two-tier taxes from two-tier Keir,' she said. 'When Labour negotiates Britain loses.'

Your browser does not support iframes.

The agreement will mean that Indian workers who are transferred to the UK offices of their employers will be exempt from NI for the first three years.

Their firm, if they are Indian owned or a multi-national with offices in the country, will also not have to pay the contributions. The deal will be reciprocal for British workers who are transferred to workplaces in India.

Officials have not provided an assessment of the cost or impact on UK businesses.

The change is understood to have been a key demand by New Delhi's negotiators who said the agreement, which has been three years in the making, will result in 'significant financial gains' for Indian companies.

Terms of the trade deal will also see the UK lower tariffs on clothes, shoes and food such as frozen prawns from the subcontinent, in exchange for reciprocal cuts for products including whisky and cars.

But the tax break - which was omitted from the UK press release on the pact - immediately provoked anger.

Grim figures yesterday revealed the UK's services sector had shrunk for the first time in 18 months with the NI increase, which came into force in April, blamed alongside Donald Trump's trade war.

Tory shadow business minister Dame Harriett Baldwin told the Commons: 'This Government is literally putting up taxes for British workers, but cutting them for Indian workers. This deal looks like it's subsidising Indian labour while undercutting British workers.'

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch - seen visiting a school in London yesterday - has accused Sir Keir Starmer of a 'two-tier' approach

And shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick wrote on X: 'British workers come last in Starmer's Britain.'

Writing in today's Mail, Nigel Farage, fresh from delivering Labour a bloody nose at last week's local elections, said: 'In Starmer's Britain, people who have grown up here, worked hard, paid their taxes and propped up the economy are effectively being asked to pay to put themselves out of work.

'It is nothing short of a betrayal of working people in this country.

'After this deal it will become 20 per cent cheaper to employ an Indian worker over a British one.'

Defending the deal, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds pointed to equivalent agreements with the EU, the US and South Korea under the Double Contribution Convention.

'It means that when our people are moved by a company to India they will be paying into the UK system and not the Indian system, and when Indian people are temporarily in the UK they'll be paying into their system and not to ours,' he said.

'But it's very specific as to who this applies to and if people were in the UK they would still be paying income tax, they would still be paying, for instance, the health surcharge and they wouldn't be eligible for benefits from the national insurance system.'

But Tory MP Nick Timothy said that ministers were 'conning' the public.

'These changes will create a massive incentive for UK firms to work with Indian service providers, undercutting domestic workers, companies and contractors,' he said.
Sir Keir Starmer's Downing Street has been condemned by grooming gang victims after backing a minister's suggestion the scandal was being 'weaponised'.

No. 10 officials hit out following calls for Commons Leader Lucy Powell to be fired for dismissing criticism as a 'dog whistle' campaigning.

A spokesperson for the PM, who was previously head of the Crown Prosecution Service, appeared to back Ms Powell amid calls for her to quit or be dismissed.

Cabinet minister Ms Powell, Manchester Central MP since 2012, is accused of having 'belittled' victims' following comments she made when responding on BBC Radio 4's Any Questions to Tim Montgomerie, founder of the website ConservativeHome.

In a discussion about councils' diversity spending, Mr Montgomerie asked Ms Powell whether she had watched a recent Channel 4 documentary on five women who had been victims of sexual grooming.

She replied: 'Oh, we want to blow that little trumpet now, do we? Let's get that dog whistle out, shall we?'

One of the victims of the Rotherham grooming gangs scandal today told MailOnline of her dismay at the remarks - and accused Labour of downplaying the 'heinous crime' committed against young girls.

Grooming gangs abuse and attempts by whistleblowers such as former Greater Manchester detective Maggie Oliver to expose police failures were depicted in the acclaimed 2017 BBC drama series Three Girls.

Sir Keir Starmer, pictured outside Downing Street today, has come under pressure over the Government's response to calls for new grooming gangs inquiries

Commons Leader Lucy Powell has been criticised for comments she made on Radio 4

The BBC broadcast in 2017 a dramatisation of the Rochdale abuse scandal, called Three Girls

Ms Powell has responded to a backlash against her Radio 4 remarks by posting on X, formerly Twitter: 'In the heat of a discussion on AQ, I would like to clarify that I regard issues of child exploitation & grooming with the utmost seriousness.

'I'm sorry if this was unclear. I was challenging the political point scoring around it, not the issue itself.

'As a constituency MP I've dealt with horrendous cases. This Gvt is acting to get the truth, and deliver justice.'

Downing Street has risked further enflaming the controversy, after being challenged over Ms Powell's suggestion that the grooming gangs issue was being 'weaponised'.

A No. 10 spokesman said in reply: 'It's obviously disappointing for people to do so. But the Prime Minister is focused on taking the action that is needed to deliver for victims rather than on political point scoring.'

When asked by reporters who was doing so, the spokesman added: 'I think any political point scoring on an issue such as this is disappointing. The Government is focused on taking action to deliver justice for victims.'

Sarah Wilson, a victim of the Rotherham scandal, has said Ms Powell's comments at the weekend showed what survivors have been 'up against all these years' and why they have not been 'listened to  they never cared and never will'.

And another Rotherham victim today told MailOnline of her anger at the response, with Elizabeth Harper, not her real name, saying: 'Lucy Powell's comments were said so confidently.

Your browser does not support iframes.

Downing Street has said Sir Keir Starmer (pictured last Friday in Bedfordshire) is 'focused on taking the action that is needed to deliver for victims rather than on political point scoring'

'It is clear to me and others who have been wildly affected by this heinous crime that this was a wider opinion of the Labour group and also that it appears this is how it's spoken about.

'Why is it being "weaponised"? Is this because people are acknowledging what we've been through?

'It's not been weaponised. People are scared and worried, not just for the survivors but for the future generations.

'This is a crime that needs dealing with - instead they continue to let people of this country down.'

At least 1,400 children were subjected to sexual exploitation in Rotherham between 1997 and 2013.

MailOnline previously revealed how one of Elizabeth's attackers had been recalled to a category-B prison after being spotted less than a mile from her home in Rotherham - despite legal conditions barring him from a return to the town.

Taxi driver Asghar Bostan served four and a half years of a nine-year term handed down in 2018, after being convicted of two rapes of a girl under 16 between 2000 and 2002.

Sir Keir was accused in January this year of smear tactics after claiming people wanting an inquiry into the grooming gangs scandal were jumping on a 'far-right bandwagon'.

Your browser does not support iframes.

The PM also defended his record as former Director of Public Prosecutions after Tesla tycoon Elon Musk suggested he was complicit in a failure to tackle abuse.

He said: 'What I wont tolerate is politicians jumping on the bandwagon simply to get attention when those politicians sat in government for 14 long years, tweeting, talking, but not doing anything about it  now so desperate for attention that theyre amplifying what the far-right is saying.'

Downing Street then insisted Sir Keir's remarks were focused on the Conservatives rather than campaigners and victims pushing for an inquiry.

Cabinet colleague and Health Secretary Wes Streeting has this week said Ms Powell was 'mortified' about her Any Questions comments and was 'right' to apologise.

He also insisted on Sunday the Government took the issue of child sexual exploitation 'extremely seriously' and was 'making real changes that will help to support victims'.

The issue of grooming  including by gangs of Pakistani origin  has been put back into the spotlight after Labour denied a request for a new Whitehall-led inquiry.

The Government instead ordered locally led probes, although Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has ordered a 'rapid audit' into the scale of the issue.

The Conservatives' Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp has branded the Government 'shameful' for 'standing by' Ms Powell following her weekend comments.

Labour minister Lucy Powell posted on X, formerly Twitter, about her earlier remarks on BBC Radio 4's Any Questions programme - prompting further responses from critics

He said: 'If Lucy Powell won't resign, Keir Starmer should fire her if he is serious about this issue.

'Wes Streeting saying this was just a "slip of the tongue" is an unacceptable excuse  especially given Labour's refusal to hold a proper national inquiry and Starmer's "far-Right bandwagon" smear in January.'

Channel 4 last month broadcast a documentary called Groomed: A National Scandal that included testimony from five women telling of their ordeals - as well as footage of a convicted grooming gang rapist complaining about his treatment behind bars.

Irfan Khan, 37, from Batley in West Yorkshire, was sentenced to 12 years in prison, with a five-year extended licence, for three offences of rape and making threats to kill - but a new investigation revealed his moans to supporters when calling from jail.

He was part of a group of more than 20 sexual predators locked up last year for a total of 346 years after eight young girls in West Yorkshire were raped, abused and trafficked across 13 years.

Khan was heard phoning from prison and telling supporters of a campaign group called Fighting For Fair Trials: 'Since I've been inside there's been so many come inside all of a sudden  it's been like a domino. Half of Dewsbury's inside.

'And it's really unfair  you know, its just unfair. Ive done nothing wrong and I've sat here for 15 months.'

The Government has been facing calls this year - including from X's billionaire owner Elon Musk - for new inquiries into the handling of grooming gangs exposed across the country, in cases where the abusers were predominantly Asian men.

Grooming gang victims Chantelle (left) and Jade (right) have spoken out in a new Channel 4 documentary called Groomed:

Police whistleblower Maggie Oliver, speaking on January 14 2023 at a press conference following the publication of a damning report about police and council failures

In January last year a report found young girls were 'left at the mercy' of paedophile grooming gangs for years in Rochdale because of failings by senior police and council bosses.

The damning 173-page review covered 2004 to 2013 and set out multiple failed investigations by Greater Manchester Police and apparent local authority indifference to the plight of hundreds of youngsters, mainly white girls from poor backgrounds, all identified as potential victims of abuse in Rochdale.

Successive police operations were launched, but these were insufficiently resourced to match the scale of the widespread organised exploitation within the area.

The study followed reports by the same authors on grooming in Manchester and Oldham, which found authorities had again failed children, leaving them in the clutches of paedophiles.
A woman whose monster XL bully mauled three young girls after it reacted in a very aggressive way to a knock at the front door was allowed to walk free from court yesterday.

Victoria Hewitt wrestled with seven-and-a-half stone pet Karma as it savaged and dragged the screaming children at her home and desperately tried to coax it away from them with ham she grabbed from the fridge.

A brave neighbour eventually wrestled the animal to the ground and Hewitt desperately yelled Shoot the dog when police arrived. Officers sedated Karma, who was later destroyed.

All three girls  Hewitts daughters aged eight and four and their 11-year-old friend - needed hospital treatment for bite and puncture wounds.

The eight-year-old sustained the most significant injuries, including a deep wound down to the bone on her upper right arm.

Hewitt, 42, is understood to have registered the pet under a new law brought in weeks earlier that required them to be registered - but also stated they must be kept securely.

The semi-permanent makeup artist appeared in court yesterday where she was handed an eight-month jail term, suspended for 18 months, after admitting being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control causing injury.

Judge Anthony Bate heard the dog had belonged to an ex-partner of Hewitt who left it with her.

XL bully Karma mauled three girls aged four, eight and 11 after reacting 'aggressively' to a knock at the front door

Owner Victoria Hewitt, 42, was left the dog by a former partner. She admitted being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control causing injury

She took steps to manage the risk it posed, including installing a pen and stairgates. Karma was also muzzled when out on walks and kept in a different room when visitors called by.

But Judge Bate said while the precautions were well intended, they were limited and inadequate, allowing the powerful pet to cause the terrible injuries.

Many of the photos on Hewitts Facebook page show Karma, including one where she is on a bed with a small child.

An image posted on February 2 last year  weeks before the attack  shows Karma and two younger dogs with the caption My triple trouble pups.

The horrific incident took place at Hewitts home in Costessey, Norfolk, on March 7 last year, Norwich Crown Court was told.

Prosecutor Chris Youell said Karma had never reacted aggressively before but when someone knocked at the door she reacted in a very aggressive and violent way.

The pet went for the eight-year-old first, with Hewitt leaping on it and trying to prize its jaws off the girl.

She took the ham from the fridge in the hope it would distract the bitch but this didnt work and it continued dragging and biting the child.

What is the law on XL Bullies? Since February 1 last year, it has been a criminal offence to own an XL bully dog in England and Wales without a certificate. To qualify for an exemption certificate, owners had to prove their XL bully was neutered by June 30. If the pup was less than a year old by January 31, they must have been neutered by the end of 2024, and evidence of this provided. As well as neutering their animals, XL bully owners seeking an exemption must also pay an application fee, hold active public liability insurance for their pets and ensure the dogs are microchipped. People with dangerously out of control dogs can be jailed for 14 years and banned from owning animals. Their their pets can also be put down. Advertisement

Karma then switched her attention to the other two girls, who had been cowering on the sofa screaming, and was trying to bite them.

Both were bitten as they ran to a door to escape before Hewitt managed to wrestle them free.

The eight-year-old girl used the distraction to flee upstairs to her two-year-old brother, who was in his cot.

Hewitts neighbour arrived after hearing the screams and dragged the dog to the floor as it snapped at her.

They held her on the floor and screamed at the others to get out. Police arrived within minutes and Hewitt pleaded with them to shoot the dog before they sedated the pet and took her away.

The court was told that all three children have received counselling and therapy to help them come to terms with the horrifying incident.

Rob Pollington, defending, said his client was extremely remorseful for what has occurred.

No punishment meted out by the court could teach the level of pain and suffering that she herself has put herself through.

Judge Bate, who praised the skill of surgeons who treated the children, accepted Hewitts remorse was profound and genuine.

He also ordered her to carry out a 20-day Rehabilitation Activity Requirement, in which an offender takes part in activities designed to address the behaviour that contributed to the crime and attend supervision appointments with a probation officer.

Detective Constable Natalie Purcell, of Norfolk Police, said: This was a distressing incident where a woman and three children were injured by an XL bully. Due to the immediate risk posed to emergency services and the public, the dog was destroyed at the scene.

The dog was correctly registered and insured. However, we'd like to remind all dog owners it is against the law to keep an XL bully dog without a Certificate of Exemption.

Registered dogs must also be housed securely, neutered and kept on a lead and muzzled in public.

The court was told that Hewitt, who received a suspended jail term, was deeply remorseful for this incident and no punishment could 'teach the level of pain and suffering that she herself has put herself through'

Karma was sedated by police when they arrived at the house and was later destroyed

The former Conservative government introduced new restrictions on ownership of XL bully dogs following attacks including this one captured on CCTV in Birmingham in September 2023

New laws restricting the breeding and sale of XL bullies were introduced on December 31, 2023, following a series of horrific incidents in which owners and innocent bystanders were maimed for life or killed by the powerful pets.

In February last year, it became illegal to own a dog of this type unless registered before the deadline. They must be neutered, muzzled in public and kept in secure conditions. Owners with unregistered pets face prosecution and fines.

Fatal victims of XL bullies include mother-of-two Angeline Mahal, 50, who was mauled to death by her two unregistered pets at her home in Hornchurch, east London, in May last year. Her family had begged her to give up the dogs.

There are now five banned types of dog in the UK  XL bully, pit bull terrier, Japanese Tosa, Doga Argentina and Fila Brasileiro.
It was billed as a diplomatic debut, but according to a body language expert, Mark Carney's first official visit to Washington as Canadian Prime Minister quickly turned into a Trump masterclass in dominance.

At the Oval Office on Tuesday, Donald Trump played host in a meeting that appeared, on the surface, to celebrate the enduring friendship between the US and Canada.

But behind the scenes - and beneath the smiles - subtle gestures and fleeting expressions told a very different story.

Even before Carney arrived in Washington, Trump had begun what expert Judi James described as his usual pre-match 'sledging' of visiting leaders, posting aggressive social media comments about Canadian trade policy.

This, the expert noted, served as a 'form of meat tenderizer' - softening up the guest with bullish bluster before extending the hand of supposed friendship in person.

That handshake, however, was anything but equal.

'Trump's big paw came at Carney's hand in a downward angle, a classic dominance move to suggest superior power and status,' said James.

'Carney kept his distance. His hand on Trump's lower arm could have been a power clamp, but he seemed to bottle it and his mimicry of Trump's 'Fist of power' gesture to the cameras looked weak.'

At the Oval Office on Tuesday, Donald Trump played host in a meeting that appeared, on the surface, to celebrate the enduring friendship between the US and Canada

Trump continued to advocate for Canada becoming America's 51st state. But the Canadian President reiterated his firm commitment to defending Canadian sovereignty

US President Donald Trump greets Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney as he arrives at the White House in Washington, DC, on May 6, 2025

The clearest moment of imbalance came when Carney admitted feeling nervous during the meeting.

'I'm on the edge of my seat,' he said with a tight-lipped smile, an admission which Trump pounced on with a theatrical pat of reassurance on the Canadian's knee.

'This admission of vulnerability brought a knee-pat response from Trump. Being able to offer a nervous man a pat of reassurance right at the start must have shown Trump some sort of advantage,' the expert said.

Carney responded with what the expert called a 'non-verbal purr', a reluctant chuckle and approving smile that only reinforced the American president's upper hand.

Throughout the awkward but 'amicable' meeting, Carney maintained an outwardly respectful and professional demeanour, but his micro-gestures betrayed moments of resistance.

When Trump suggested the US does not do much business with Canada or floated the idea of Canada becoming the 51st state, Carney's face gave him away, the expert said.

'Carney's body language suggested a passive-aggressive method of hinting disagreement via some micro-gestures like an eye-roll of surprise, a blink, then a narrowing of the left eye in an evaluation ritual with a lip pucker and head tilt to suggest he had other opinions,' she explained.

Even when speaking, Carney reportedly checked Trump's reactions, looking over repeatedly for approval.

As he spoke he face-checked Trump for nodding approval,' said the expert

One moment of sincerity came when Carney used a meshing gesture with his hands to symbolise strong bilateral ties during a statement about US-Canada cooperation

'Trump's big paw came at Carney's hand in a downward angle, a classic dominance move to suggest superior power and status,' said James

As he spoke he face-checked Trump for nodding approval,' said the expert.

One moment of sincerity came when Carney used a meshing gesture with his hands to symbolise strong bilateral ties during a statement about US-Canada cooperation.

But seated across from Carney, Trump continued to advocate for Canada becoming America's 51st state. The Canadian President then reiterated his firm commitment to defending Canadian sovereignty.

'As you know from real estate, there are some places that are never for sale,' Carney told Trump, in a gesture to the president's background as a real-estate developer.

He then referenced his mandate from Canada's recent federal elections, which reflected growing anti-Trump sentiment among Canadian voters.

'Having met with the owners of Canada over the course of the campaign these last several months, it's not for sale - won't be for sale - ever,' Carney said of his country.

During the interaction while discussing the potential of Canada becoming the 51st state, Carney could be seen shaking his knee as the US President spoke.

'Knee-jiggling is a ritual of irritation, impatience or anxiety. Used like this it appears to be a passive-aggressive metronomic gesture suggesting a suppression of real emotions but a desire to make a strong point but maybe without creating hostility,' the expert said.

Trump seemed far more eager to talk about the golden renovations he had made to the presidential residence than to focus on policy, trade, or international cooperation

When Trump suggested the US does not do much business with Canada or floated the idea of Canada becoming the 51st state, Carney's face gave him away, the expert said

Carney was visibly tentative, offering polite smiles and carefully scripted remarks about cross-border ties

Though the press conference ended with smiles and a firm handshake, the underlying tone was clear. Trump relished being the host, the showman, and the dominant force in the room

But despite Carney's attempt to stand his ground, the American president brushed aside the remark with a chuckle and changed the subject back to the White House's golden decor.

'This looked primarily like Trump hosting a press conference to boast about White House decor while Carney sat waiting for the odd cue to speak,' the expert said.

Trump seemed far more eager to talk about the golden renovations he had made to the presidential residence than to focus on policy, trade, or international cooperation.

Carney, meanwhile, was visibly tentative, offering polite smiles and carefully scripted remarks about cross-border ties. 'Carney's approach was tentative, polite and charming,' the expert concluded.

Though the press conference ended with smiles and a firm handshake, the underlying tone was clear. Trump relished being the host, the showman, and the dominant force in the room.

Carney's body language showed he was outmanoeuvred, James explained.

'His micro-gestures did hint at matters to discuss away from the cameras,' but in front of them, it was Trump's performance.
A hairdresser who slashed through her ex-boyfriend's flyscreen to crawl into bed with him has fronted a court on assault charges.

Paris Coudounellis, 20, broke into her ex's house last June before causing $1,200 in damage to his car following an argument weeks later.

She appeared at Waverley Local Court on Wednesday wearing a red Gucci belt and dress pants before pleading guilty to three counts of damaging property and one count of common assault.

She also pleaded guilty to breaching an apprehended violence order (AVO) protecting her ex, Luke Paterson.

Paterson had been her boyfriend for two years before the split.

Documents revealed Paterson heard scratching at his bedroom window on the night she broke in, but could not locate its source.

Later that night, Coudounellis sliced open two flyscreens and crawled into his house.

She then climbed into bed with Paterson without stirring him from his sleep.

Paris Coudounellis, 20, pleaded guilty to three counts of damaging property and one count of common assault

She was only discovered the following morning when Paterson's mother walked into his room.

Later that month, Paterson took his mother's Mercedes Benz to work in Coogee, east Sydney and parked outside the Coogee Surf Life-saving Club.

There, Coudounellis entered the car, began crying, and accused Paterson of being with another woman.

The hairdresser then began kicking the inside of the car, causing about $1,200 in damage to the internal dials and air conditioning vents.

In August, Coudounellis and Paterson were at Anytime Fitness in Kensington, Sydney, when they began fighting.

He left the gym to go home and shut the door on Coudounellis upon arrival.

The hairdresser then pulled the flyscreen panel from Paterson's bedroom window and told him: 'I'm not leaving until you come outside to talk to me.'

The hairdresser broke into her ex's house last June having climbed through a window

The hairdresser pulled the flyscreen panel from her ex's bedroom window (stock)

An argument ensued for an hour and police arrested and charged Coudounellis later in August.

On Wednesday, the case was adjourned for six weeks to allow time for a sentencing assessment report.

Coudounellis will face court again in June.

Following a separate alleged incident in March this year, Coudounellis reported an assault to Maroubra police.

She alleged Paterson knocked on her bedroom window after midnight on her birthday, and she allowed him to climb in.

Police documents stated Paterson allegedly choked Coudounellis during the visit.

When she reported the alleged incident, Maruobra police noticed she had breached the standing AVO, leading to her own arrest.
A raging mother beat a rapist to death with the help of an angry mob after finding her disabled daughter undressed at his house in South Africa.

The 44-year-old - who has been dubbed 'warrior woman' in her village - arrived home after shopping in Cacadu, Eastern Province, last month to find her 20-year-old girl missing.

Neighbours told her she was last seen walking with a 65-year-old local man to his house and when she stormed in she found the pair in a state of undress on the bed.

A furious mob who had followed the woman  who cannot be named to protect the identity of the victim  also entered the suspect's small holding and witnessed the scene.

The mother was arrested and charged with murder but has now been cleared following a public outcry.

South African Police spokesman Captain Yolisa Mgolodela said: 'The woman caught the man and her daughter getting dressed and asked her what had just been happening.

'The victim pointed down to her private parts and the mum, assisted by residents, attacked the man who was allegedly beaten to death, leading to the arrest of the mother.

'The assault by the mother and the community on the alleged perpetrator left him so badly injured that he was declared dead at the scene when an ambulance arrived', he said.

A raging mother beat a rapist to death with the help of an angry mob after finding her disabled daughter undressed in his house in South Africa. The mother arrived home after shopping in Cacadu, Eastern Province, last month to find her 20-year-old girl missing. Pictured: Cacadu

The 44-year-old - who has been dubbed 'warrior woman' in her village - was charged with murder but has now been cleared following a public outcry. Pictured: The court

She was bailed and brought before Cacadu Magistrates on Monday in a court room packed with high profile supporters.

The National Prosecuting Authority dropped the charge following the huge wave of public support.

Locals cheered as the charge of murder was dropped.

National Prosecuting Authority's Eastern Cape spokesperson Luxolo Tyali said: 'The matter has been withdrawn after careful consideration by the Director of Public Prosecutions'.

The relieved mother told News24: 'I thank everyone who supported me since the incident and my subsequent arrest and the withdrawal of the charge means I can now help my daughter.

'I will now have the strength to focus fully on her wellbeing as she has been emotionally distressed by what happened to her as a doctor has confirmed that she was raped,' she said.

The brave mother had earlier told how the rapist was a family friend and how she stormed up to his house and kicked in the door and found him and her daughter both half dressed.

Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane and his Social Development provincial cabinet minister Bukiwe Fanta were among a huge crowd supporting the mother at the court. Pictured: Bukiwe Fanta arriving at court on Monday

She told News24: 'I cried and asked this man what he was doing to my disabled daughter who cannot even speak for herself so defending her myself was the only option I had'.

She added: 'What happened happened and is in the past and my daughter and I have to rebuild. Once again I thank everyone for their support which has come from all across SA'.

Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane and his Social Development provincial cabinet minister Bukiwe Fanta were among a huge crowd supporting the mother at the court.

Ms Fanta said: 'The mother's action were viewed within the context of a desperate attempt to protect her child from the hands of a violent predator.

'The decision shows compassion for how individuals may react in a crisis.

'While the rule of law is essential for order and justice it must also be applied with empathy and an art of understanding human emotion when faced by threat against ones loved ones.

'The decision reaffirms our commitment to ensuring justice is not blind but also humane. I am very pleased the charge of murder has gone as it shows compassion and understanding.

'This case has touched the hearts of many in our society and sparked a critical dialogue about the issue of GBV, parental instincts, and the complexities of our legal system.

'But the right decision was made by the NPA to withdraw the charge of murder' she said.

Mr Mabuyane added: 'We commend the NPA for its sensitivity and careful consideration of the extreme circumstances that led to this case.

'The decision reflects a compassionate understanding of the context and the instinctive protective actions taken by a mother in a moment of unimaginable desperate trauma.

In 2019 when the Duke & Duchess of Sussex visited Cape Town the story of local student Uyinene Mrwetyana, 19, who was raped and murdered led to huge demonstations. Meghan released a photo on Instagram of her tying a yellow ribbon with a private message to the victim amongst the sea of ribbons that already festooned the post office which became a shrine

'No parent should be forced into a position to have to physically intervene to keep their child from harm and we must ensure our communities are safe places for them to grow'.

The incident follows a string of recent cases involving gender-based violence in South Africa.

In 2017 a woman became known as the 'Lion Mama' after she stabbed three men she caught gang-raping her daughter, killing one of them.

Nokubonga Qampi received a phone call in the early hours in the same village of Cacadu as the above rape case telling her that three men were taking turns having sex with her daughter, 27.

Brave Nokubonga, then 57, got no reply from the police and said later: 'I was the only one who could help her and I was very scared but it was my daughter so I picked up a knife.

'When I got into the house I could see from the light of my torch one man raping her and two men stood with their trousers round their ankles to take another turn with her.

'The saw me and rushed me and it was an instinctive reaction to protect my daughter with my knife and I do not want to talk about what happened in that room again', she said.

Uyinene Mrwetyana (pictured) was attacked and killed at a post office in Cape Town in 2019

The woman then dubbed 'Mama Lion' for 'protecting her cub' was charged with murder and two counts of attempted murder but all charges were dropped by the NPA after reflection.

The two surviving rapists were sentenced to 30 years each at Cacadu Magistrates Court in 2018 and her daughter Siphokaze waived her right of anonymity to praise her brave mother.

Between 2017 and 2018 there were 74 reported rapes in Cacuda  with many more too frightened to come forward  which the community say is 'shocking' in a population of just 5000.

In 2019 in Muhovhoya Village in Limpopo Province a 39-year-old man was set on fire and burned to death after being caught raping a disabled teenager, aged 17, collecting firewood.

Also in 2019 Veronique Makewana, 23, was charged with attempted murder for slicing off the penis of a man arrested for raping and murdering her daughter, aged 5, in Port Elizabeth.

After a huge public outcry the charge was reduced to assault and magistrates later freed her.

During the royal visit to South Africa by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle the same year the issue of gender-based violence was in headlines after new crime figures showed 125 rapes a day in South Africa.

Evil Luyanda Botha (pictured), 42, had targeted the student after he told her to collect a parcel she was expecting after closing hours

While the Duke & Duchess of Sussex  then working royals  visited Cape Town the story of local student Uyinene Mrwetyana, 19, who was raped and murdered led to huge demonstrations.

Angry protests were sweeping the Western Cape against gender-based violence and Meghan paid a private visit to the Clareinch Post Office where Uyinene was attacked and killed.

Thousands of ribbons were tied to the balcony of the post office as a memorial to the talented teenager who was raped then beaten to death with a set a scales weight by a post office worker.

Meghan released a photo on Instagram of her tying a yellow ribbon with a private message to the victim amongst the sea of ribbons that already festooned the post office which became a shrine.

Evil Luyanda Botha, 42, had targeted the student after he told her to collect a parcel she was expecting after closing hours.

He then raped her and beat her to death was jailed for life in 2019.

South Africa is one of the most dangerous countries in the world with 75 murders a day and 125 rapes reported.

Most involve territory and drugs wars in poor townships where life is cheap.

Although tourists are vulnerable to car-jacking and being held up and robbed or being pickpocketed there have only been 5 tourists murdered in 8 years - all in situations that were avoidable.
Charlie Mullins has been inspired by Reform's success in the local elections to renew his plans to return to the UK to stand as a councillor for the party.

Britain's richest plumber, who made 145million when he sold Pimlico Plumbers in 2021, is currently sunning himself in Spain and Dubai after fleeing Britain to avoid Labour's 'tax grab'.

The 72-year-old insists he is 'loving life' abroad but would 'undoubtedly' consider coming back to contest a local council election in his native South London. He would also be interested in standing in a by-election for the Commons if one was declared.

Mr Mullins, a prominent Reform UK supporter, said he was encouraged by the party's success in local elections across parts of England last week.

The poll on May 1 saw Nigel Farage's party win more than 650 council seats and seize control of 10 councils as Labour and the Tories suffered a grim night.

'The more Reform progress the more I want to get involved with them, and I'd undoubtedly consider coming back for a by-election or to run for a council seat,' he told MailOnline.

'Ideally it would be the area I come from in south-east London, so Bermondsey, Lambeth or Southwark. The business is in Lambeth so it would make sense to be a councillor there.

'It's become run down like many places but if you come from there you know what it takes to get things moving again - they need people who know what it takes to start a business. I have an apartment in Westminster so I'd be happy to try there but I'd imagine that would be harder.'

Charlie Mullins - pictured with his partner Malak at his Spanish villa earlier this year - fled Britain to avoid Labour's 'tax grab'

Your browser does not support iframes.

Mr Mullins, a prominent supporter of Reform UK, said he was encouraged by the party's success in local elections last week. Pictured is Nigel Farage celebrating on the night

The next local council elections are on May 7, 2026, while a by-elections will only take place if an MP's seat becomes vacant before the next general election, which is currently slated for 2029.

Mr Mullins previously announced his interest in trying to become a councillor but told MailOnline he had ditched this plan after being threatened with having his OBE withdrawn over a social media attack on Sir Sadiq Khan.

The Honours Forfeiture Committee, which is convened on an ad-hoc basis by the Prime Minister and chaired by the Cabinet Secretary, first accused Mr Mullins of 'bringing the honours system into disrepute' in September over comments dating back to 2022.

They said they were 'minded to recommend to His Majesty that your OBE be revoked', citing a controversial X post he made about the Mayor of London as well as allegedly offensive jokes made online and in person.

'I didn't bother to run for a council because I had this threat of Labour trying to take my OBE away from me,' Mr Mullins said.

'So that's why I stepped away from it at that particular time. I wanted to keep away from it.

'But when their lawyers put their evidence through it was absolutely rubbish and about a few things I had put on TV or Twitter.'

Mr Mullins and his partner, Malak, currently split their time between a stunning villa in the Costa del Sol and Dubai, where the entrepreneur is currently planning to buy a property.

The entrepreneur is currently splitting his time between this villa in Spain and Dubai

Interior photos of the 2million Spanish property reveal lavish interiors, including this living room with a huge flatscreen TV

Rachel Reeves' Budget pushed Britain's tax burden to historically high levels

He has always denied wanting to 'run away' from tax and points out that he has been 'paying millions into the system for 50 years'.

'I'm happy to pay and contribute but I'm not happy about the money being wasted,' he said.

'More and more people are leaving the UK. I'm in Dubai at the moment and meeting people who aren't big business people but realise they can be miles better off.

'These local election results show it's no longer a two-horse race and Reform needs to be taken seriously.

'If Nigel Farage comes in I'll be back in the UK tomorrow. I don't think Labour will last their full term.'

Mr Mullins recently gave MailOnline an exclusive tour of his sumptuous villa in Mijas Costa, just up the road from Marbella.

The four-storey property boasts ensuite bedrooms on each floor, as well as a pool, a rooftop currently being converted into a bar area and a basement games room.

The businessman, who heads up a family of 11 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, also owns a seven seater Land Rover for when 'the kids are in town.'

Your browser does not support iframes.

Your browser does not support iframes.

In 2023, Mr Mullins was suspended from X - formerly Twitter - after he wrote 'someone should kill' Mr Khan in a discussion about ULEZ.

He was told in March that no action would be taken after he pledged to undertake 'gender sensitivity and diversity training'.

Despite the case having been dropped, he has previously blasted Sir Keir for what he insisted was a politically motivated attack sparked by him leaving the UK in anger at the PM's policies.

A Government spokesperson said at the time: 'Claims that the Forfeiture Committee is politically motivated are completely unfounded and inaccurate.

'The Forfeiture Committee is entirely apolitical and no ministers or political appointees are involved in any of its decision making.'
A 57-year-old man, who was arrested on suspicion of murder aboard a luxury cruise ship, has been released on bail.

Hampshire Constabulary launched a murder probe after a 60-year-old man, from West Sussex, died abroad the MSC Virtuosa on Saturday, May 3.

It is understood that the deceased had been part of a stag party on board the ship.

His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist police officers.

The suspect was arrested when the ship returned from Belgium to Southampton, Hampshire on Monday.

The man, who is yet to be named, has now been released on bail, police said.

Cruise passenger, Lynda Hardiman-Pearce, believes that the man who died was on a stag do, and an 'army medic' tried to save his life by performing CPR.

She said the incident unfolded shortly after the ship left Southampton at 6pm, with 'hen and stag parties causing chaos' on the boat.

Ms Hardiman-Pearce added that she was on the ship for a trip to Zeebrugge in Belgium, and returned to Southampton.

MSC Virtuosa (pictured) left on Saturday evening for a two-night cruise to Bruges but a fight allegedly broke out just hours into the journey at about 8.30pm

MSC Virtuosa is seen here berthed at the City Cruise Terminal in Southampton ahead of its first sailing on May 20 2021

'On Saturday night we were in a bar onboard and I was chatting to someone whilst waiting to be served,' she said.

'He told me his son was an army medic and had tried to help by doing CPR on a guy that had collapsed but unfortunately couldn't revive him.

'Apparently, the [man] was on a stag do.'

She described seeing five police officers at Southampton Docks when she disembarked on Monday.

'The cruise was full of hen and stag parties causing chaos,' she said: 'Since getting home we talked to our family, and they all said it didn't sound like any cruise they had been on.'

A force spokesperson said that a 57-year-old man from Exeter, Devon, who was arrested on suspicion of murder, has been released while the investigation continues.

'Officers are continuing their inquiries into the death of a 60-year-old man from West Sussex on board the MSC Virtuosa, which happened around 8.30pm on Saturday (May 3),' they said.

The body of a man who died on Saturday is believed to have been kept aboard the ship until Monday morning when HMS Virtuosa (pictured) docked back in the Horizon terminal in Hampshire

Hampshire Police has told MailOnline a homicide investigation was launched following the death aboard the MSC Virtuosa (pictured) in British waters

'A 57-year-old man arrested as part of our inquiries has been released on bail.

'We remain keen to hear from anyone who was aboard the ship, which had departed Southampton around 6pm on Saturday and was still in British waters at the time.'

Det Chief Insp Matt Gillooly, the senior investigating officer, previously said: 'We want to reassure you that this appears to be an isolated incident onboard, and we want to thank the crew for their cooperation and assistance with our enquiries.

'If anyone who was onboard has information that could assist, please contact Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary on 101 with reference 44250193676.'

A spokesperson for MSC Virtuosa said: 'Following an incident on board our ship, the relevant authorities were contacted, and we are co-operating fully with their investigations. We are providing full support to those impacted.'
A British man has been hauled into court in Bali for allegedly smuggling a kilo of MDMA to the party island where drug crimes can result in the death penalty.

Thomas Parker, a 32-year-old electrician from Cumbria who is accused of trying to push Class A drugs police said they recovered in a mail package, appeared in a white shirt and red waistcoat as he was hauled in front of a judge today.

Parker, from the small village of Seaton near Workington, was arrested at an AirBnB in the south of the Indonesian island in January as he was allegedly collecting the package, which contained over a kilogram of the party drug along with two mobile phones.

Authorities claimed that officers had noticed him 'acting suspiciously' while collecting a package from a motorcycle taxi driver on January 21, before his arrest.

Police approached Parker, who allegedly discarded the package in panic and fled the scene. He was traced back to the 7 Seas Villas in North Kuta, where he was arrested.

Indonesia is known for its harsh punishments for drugs crimes, which can carry penalties of death by firing squad.

General Rudy Ahmad Sudrajat, of the Bali Province National Narcotics Agency, said of Parker's arrest: 'After conducting a search and arrest, Thomas and the evidence were taken to the Bali Province National Narcotics Agency office for investigation.'

The narcotics agency chief said that Parker was a member of an international drug dealer organisation based in Hungary.

Thomas Parker, a 32-year-old electrician from Cumbria, (pictured) is accused of trying to push Class A drugs

Parker was hauled in front of a judge today, and will be back in court on May 20

He appeared in a white shirt and red waistcoat

He added: 'He was ordered by his boss to pick up a package in Bali after flying from Thailand.

'The parcel contained MDMA which is illegal and punishable by death.'

But Parker claimed that he did not order the package full of drugs, which was instead sent by a drug dealer friend called 'Nicky', who he has known for around two years and regularly speak with via the Telegram messaging app.

The accused man told police that he had last seen 'Nicky' two or three days before the package was delivered.

Parker told the court that while 'Nicky' did not explicitly tell him the package was filled with drugs, he knew his contact was a drug dealer and therefore suspected it to be filled with narcotics.

Though Parker claims to have initially refused, he said he later gave in to the dealer's demands after he was assured that collecting the package was safe.

His next hearing date has been set for May 20.

A member of Parker's family previously told the Mail that he 'had nothing to say' about the dire situation currently facing Thomas.

Parker, from the small village of Seaton near Workington, was arrested at an AirBnB in the south of the island in January

Authorities claimed that officers had noticed him 'acting suspiciously' while collecting a package from a motorcycle taxi driver on January 21

Police said they opened the mail package and found light-brown powder inside. It was later found to be MDMA, the main component of ecstasy

Thomas Parker (pictured behind) was charged with supply, trafficking, and possession of illicit drugs, local police said

In Indonesia, MDMA, the main component of ecstasy, is classified as a Class I narcotic

Thomas was remanded in custody and will be kept behind bars during his trial

He was processed along with other suspects facing drug charges on March 6

There was no answer at the door of the family's smart detached home in the sleepy Cumbrian village.

A local man said: 'Seaton is a lovely little village and the Parkers are decent people. I am not sure what has gone on with Thomas. I just feel sorry for the family because they don't deserve this. What a nightmare.'

Parker went to Stainburn School and later Lakes College in Lillyhall before training as an electrician and emigrating to Australia.

MDMA is the main component in the party drug ecstasy. In Indonesia, the drug is classified as a Class I narcotic.

For quantities under five grams, offenders are jailed for between five and 15 years. For quantities exceeding five grams, the law permits the imposition of the death penalty.

Indonesia has zero-tolerance drug policies, however the country has taken a more lenient approach in recent months due to international pressure.
A woman who lied about being sexually assaulted has been warned she is facing a prison sentence over the fake claims.

Elizabeth Bates admitted perverting the course of justice on August 26, 2022 with the particulars of the offence disclosing she did so by 'making false statements to police alleging sexual assault'.

It came a year after she appeared on This Morning for a different reason, when she told how her six-year-old son had alerted an Amazon driver to help save her life.

Bates, from Newtownards, Co Down, had at an earlier hearing admitted two further similar charges in that on August 24 and 30, 2022, she 'made a statement to police containing false allegations'.

At Downpatrick Crown Court, defence KC Richard McConkey asked for the 26-year-old to be re-arraigned on the second count and accordingly, she admitted the perverting the course of justice charge.

Mr McConkey told the court that in addition to a pre-sentence report from the Probation Board, he will also be directing a medical report.

Adjourning the case to June 20 and freeing Bates on bail, Judge Geoffrey Miller KC told Bates: 'Offences of this nature are very serious because it impacts on the administration of justice.'

He added that such fake accusations also 'impact on the livelihoods and wellbeing and reputation of a person against whom an allegation is made,' before warning her that 'the custody threshold is inevitably crossed'.

Elizabeth Bates admitted perverting the course of justice on August 26, 2022 with the particulars of the offence disclosing she did so by 'making false statements to police alleging sexual assault'

The mother-of-three made headline news last July after her quick-thinking six-year-old son was captured on video asking an Amazon delivery driver for help after she collapsed

Bates, from Newtownards, Co Down, had at an earlier hearing admitted two further similar charges in that on August 24 and 30, 2022, she 'made a statement to police containing false allegations'

Judge Miller warned that the question of whether that jail term would be suspended or immediate, or whether there would be an alternative sentence, would hinge on the contents of the various reports, so it would be in her best interests to co-operate.

The mother-of-three made headline news last July - going by the name Liz or Elizabeth Crooks at the time - after her quick-thinking six-year-old son was captured on video asking an Amazon delivery driver for help after she collapsed.

Footage from her home's ring doorbell went viral with more than 20 million views worldwide after it captured the little boy accepting a parcel from a delivery driver and asking him 'to come and help his mummy'.

The boy takes the parcel from the driver before asking him: 'Can you help my mummy? She's fainted.' And after asking if his mummy is unwell, the driver then follows the six-year-old into the home and calls for an ambulance.

It led to her and her son featuring across the national media, including an appearance on This Morning where she was interviewed by Dermot O'Leary and Rochelle Humes.
A 'creepy' British stalker travelled to Bali with rope in his suitcase after threatening to kidnap an American travel influencer he had harassed online for almost a year, a court has heard.

Rob Keating, 39, allegedly sent 'incessant and constant' emails and video messages to Alexandra Saper, including his sexual fantasies and a threat to abduct her from her Indonesian tropical island home.

A former lawyer who earns a living from her Instagram page 'The Wayfaress', Ms Saper, 33, has claimed she was forced to flee the country in fear.

Keating is now on trial at Portsmouth Crown Court charged with two counts of stalking involving serious alarm or distress - which he denies.

He allegedly became convinced there was something between himself and the influencer and booked a one-way ticket to Bali, telling her: 'Flights booked baby girl.'

After he arrived on the island, the court heard he messaged her again, saying: 'You're never getting rid of me.'

Keating is a traffic worker who was living in his sister's garage in Havant, Hants, at the time of the alleged offences.

A former lawyer who earns a living from her Instagram page 'The Wayfaress', Ms Saper, 33, has claimed she was forced to flee Bali in fear

Alexandra Saper told the court she started receiving emails from her alleged stalker on an almost daily basis

Rob Keating, 39, allegedly sent 'incessant and constant' emails and video messages to Alexandra Saper, including his sexual fantasies and a threat to abduct her

Opening the case, prosecutor Alexandra Bull told the court: 'Mr Keating is now 39 years old, between 2022 and 2023 he was living in his sister's garage...and working in a traffic job and he, too, frequently posted on social media and Youtube.'

He started following Bali-based Ms Saper on Instagram in 2022, and sent her a 'weird and creepy' message in July of that year to which she replied: 'Dude, why are you following me if you don't like my content'.

Ms Saper then blocked him.

The prosecutor said: 'However, Mr Keating then found her business email connected to her website.

'Thereafter, the contact became incessant and constant.'

The influencer tried to block Keating's emails, but this just made them go into her spam folder.

Ms Saper then deleted the emails from this folder - they came in 'almost every day', the court heard.

They became more 'intense' and 'sexual in nature' later into 2022.

Ms Saper regularly posted pictures of her exotic life on the island of Bali, Indonesia, to social media

The alleged stalking began when Keating sent a message to her on Instagram in 2022, the court heard

In September he 'described having sex with her to some length' in a video of himself talking to the camera attached to the email.

'He was speaking to her as though they were in a relationship, like he was in love with her and she with him,' Ms Bull said.

The prosecutor told the court that in one email, he said he loved her and wanted to be with her and 'he said he would do whatever it takes to make that happen - if that involves kidnapping then so be it'.

In January 2023, he said he would quit his traffic job and 'come and find her' in Bali.

Ms Saper said in a video interview played to the court: 'He sent me a photo of a body in a suitcase and said he was going to kidnap me.'

She added that he said he knew she was 5ft2ins, and this meant she would 'fit inside the suitcase'.

Ms Bull told the court Keating sent Ms Saper a picture of a one-way ticket to Bali and said: 'Flights booked baby girl'.

At this point he was said to have sent her around 30 videos of himself talking to the camera among 'hundreds' of other emails.

Ms Saper said in a video interview played to the court: 'He sent me a photo of a body in a suitcase and said he was going to kidnap me'

Ms Saper was said to have become particularly alarmed when Keating allegedly travelled to Bali and began visiting places she was known to frequent

On January 30 2023, after he arrived in Bali, he messaged her 'you're never getting rid of me' - the prosecutor said this made her 'very scared'.

Ms Saper saw from posts on his Instagram page that he visited a bar she regularly went to with her friends, and went to cafes just 50 metres from her house.

In her video evidence she said Keating thought she was sending him secret messages through her Instagram posts.

'His interpretation of these posts was that they were secret coded messages about my love for him, or me asking him to come to Bali because I wanted to see him,' she said.

'He was convinced that I had asked him to come to Bali.'

Ms Saper booked a hotel room when she found out he was on the island in case he knew where she lived and then experienced her first ever panic attack as she worried that he had followed her there.

She then stayed at a friend's house in Bali, and later travelled to the South East Asian country of Laos so that they were no longer in the same country.

Ms Saper subsequently flew to Laos - a country further north in South East Asia - because she was concerned about her safety

The influencer was said to have become 'depressed' and reluctant to leave the house due to her ordeal

Ms Saper stopped posting on Instagram and had to cancel work projects because she was concerned about his belief that she was sending him secret messages.

The court heard he had also told her that he knew where her parents lived in America.

She said she became 'depressed' and stopped leaving the house because of Keating's actions.

The influencer reported him to the police in Bali, and spoke to the US and the UK embassies in the country.

He was arrested on his arrival back in the UK in March 2023 - Ms Bull said police found 'black rope' in his suitcase.

Keating told police in an interview that he was not sexually attracted to Ms Saper, but said that 'she had shown an interest in him and there could be something there' between them.

He continued to stalk Ms Saper between September and November 2024, at which point he lived in Horsham in West Sussex, prosecutors allege.

Keating posted a picture of a plane ticket from London to Bali with the caption 'round 2' on his Instagram in November.

He was subsequently arrested.

Ms Saper said in her interview recorded in October 2024: 'Since then, I've tried to do what I can to keep living my life, but it's always on the back of my mind and it's always in my inbox.'

The trial continues.
The UK film industry could be saved from Donald Trump's latest trade attack by an obscure US law, experts have claimed.

The US President has announced plans to impose a 100 per cent tariff on movies made outside America.

Mr Trump said he had authorised US government departments to impose the tariff 'on any and all movies coming into our country that are produced in foreign lands'.

Industry figures warned it 'could deal a knock-out' blow to the UK film sector, which is only just recovering from the Covid crisis when many productions were delayed or cancelled.

But legal experts have now said the US President could be on shaky legal ground if he follows through with his plans.

Mr Trump has relied on the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 for his global tariff spree.

But the law includes specific allowances, known as the Berman amendments, for the free flow of informational materials, including films.

Anupam Chander, a Georgetown University law professor, told trade magazine Variety: 'The 1994 amendment made crystal clear that the president did not have the power under [IEEPA] to stop the flow of foreign audiovisual media.'

The UK film industry could be saved from Donald Trump 's latest trade attack by an obscure US law, experts have claimed

The US President posted on his Truth Social site to announce plans to impose a 100 per cent tariff on movies made outside America

Big-budget movies like the upcoming Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning are shot around the world. The production was filmed in Britain, Norway, South Africa, and Malta

Mr Trump previously came up against the issue in 2020 when he sought to ban TikTok using IEEPA.

A federal judge granted an injunction, finding that the ban violated the Berman amendments. Congress had to pass a separate law explicitly authorising the TikTok ban.

Professor Chander added: 'There's nothing in the law that allows him to bar movies instead of short videos.'

Schuyler Moore, a partner at LA-based law firm Greenberg Glusker, said: 'How on earth are they going to enforce this? The whole thing is a goofball  I can't imagine how they're going to do this in practice.'

Emily Kilcrease, a senior fellow at the Center for a New American Security think tank, said Mr Trump could use other legal means to push through his film tariffs. But she noted it could take several months to do so.

Mr Trump's latest announcement is part of an ongoing trade war. Tariffs are taxes charged on goods imported from other countries.

It is not clear how a tariff on international productions could be implemented. Many films are shot across numerous countries, including the US and UK.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has been attempting to negotiate a UK-US trade deal with the White House in order to reduce the impact of Mr Trump's eye-watering 25 per cent levies on car and steep imports.

The UK is also hoping to head off the prospect of an assault on the pharma sector with agreements on quotas.

Tory MP Stuart Andrew, the shadow culture secretary, said tariffs 'could have a significant impact on the UK's world-renowned film industry'.

He added: 'The Labour Government must get a grip now, work with our American allies to secure a trade deal with the USA.

'And take decisive action to strengthen and protect the UK film industry, otherwise we risk seeing long-term damage to a sector that is a global success.'
A Pilates instructor died in agony after allegedly being poisoned by her mother-in-law and cheating husband after she discovered his affair.

Larissa Talle Leoncio Rodrigues, 37, had just learnt of her husband's infidelity when she died on March 22 in the Jardim Botanico neighbourhood of Ribeirao Preto, Brazil.

Her partner, doctor Luiz Antonio Garnica, and his mother, Elizabete Arrabaca, were both arrested on suspicion of causing death by poisoning on Tuesday.

Rodrigues was reportedly planning on divorcing Garnica after finding out about his lover, but died at the couple's apartments after being slipped a lethal dose of a powerful pesticide by her mother-in-law, say police.

Civil Police explained the toxicology report on Rodrigues' body indicated poisoning by the deadly substance commonly known as chumbinho.

When the instructor's body was discovered, cops said Garnica's behaviour caught their attention.

'His involvement was quite evident to us by the way he found Larissa, she was already in rigor mortis. And he tried to clean the apartment as if he was trying to destroy the evidence for the technical expertise,' said Detective Fernando Bravo, head of the investigation.

According to the police report, on March 22, Garnica claimed that he arrived home and called out to his wife who did not respond.

Larissa Talle Leoncio Rodrigues, 37, had just learnt of her husband's infidelity when she died on March 22 in the Jardim Botanico neighbourhood of Ribeirao Preto, Brazil

Doctor Luiz Antonio Garnica poses with his mother, undated. He was arrested on suspicion of involvement in the death of his wife in Ribeirao Preto, Brazil

Civil Police explained the toxicology report on Rodrigues' body indicated poisoning by the deadly substance commonly known as chumbinho

He said that after searching for her in several rooms in the couple's home, he finally found her on the bathroom floor unconscious.

Garnica claimed that as he is a surgeon, he picked Rodrigues off the floor before carrying her to the couple's bed to carry out urgent emergency procedures. But when these proved unsuccessful, he then called the emergency services.

Upon the medics' arrival, they confirmed the instructor's death at the scene and case was registered as a suspicious death.

Reports were immediately requested from the Legal Medical Institute and the Criminalistics Institute to determine the cause of death.

The results of the first examination of Rodrigues' body reportedly came back inconclusive and indicated she had lesions in her lungs and heart, as well as 'foam mushroom' - a medical term for froth that commonly appears around the nostrils and mouth of drowning victims.

On Tuesday, the Civil Police served temporary arrest warrants against the doctor and his mother after the toxicology report indicated traces of lead in Rodrigues' system.

According to Bravo, Arrabaca was the last person to see Larissa alive the day before she died. The investigation also revealed that the woman called a friend to ask about the lead shot.

According to the police report, on March 22, Garnica claimed that he arrived home and called out to his wife who did not respond

On Tuesday, the Civil Police served temporary arrest warrants against the doctor and his mother after the toxicology report indicated traces of lead in Rodrigues' system

Garnica claimed that as he is a surgeon, he picked Rodrigues off the floor before carrying her to the couple's bed to carry out urgent emergency procedures. But when these proved unsuccessful, he then called the emergency services

According to Bravo, last week when the search and seizure warrant was served against the husband's secret partner, she was located in the apartment where the doctor lived with his wife. Pictured: Antonio and Rodrigues

'She even called a friend who is a farmer to find out if she had this substance on her farm. When her friend said no, she asked for a recommendation of where to buy it, but none were provided or recommended,' he said, as per G1 Globo.

'Yesterday we managed to find a witness who reported that the mother-in-law was looking for lead to buy, approximately 15 days before the death, so this gave us certainty that she, together with her son, killed Larissa,' he added.

Police are looking now investigating how Arrabaca obtained the lethal substance and the motives behind the alleged crimes. According to the police report, there are indications that Rodrigues was poisoned for days.

'There are indications that they were administered throughout the week, especially because the victim arrived and told friends that every time her mother-in-law left the house she would get sick, with diarrhea,' Bravo said.

'She had some symptoms, which today we realise, were already indicating poisoning,' says the detective'.

Antonio's lover is also being investigated in the case and her mobile phone was seized by Civil Police, as well as the mother-in-law and husband's devices.

According to Bravo, last week when the search and seizure warrant was served against the husband's secret partner, she was located in the apartment where the doctor lived with his wife, which stunned police.

'He went to the cinema with his lover the day before [the crime], so there are indications that he was preparing an alibi,' Bravo concluded.
A new assisted dying law could allow people to get away with murder because the deaths would not have to be investigated, the former chief coroner has warned.

Judge Thomas Teague KC said that the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill appeared to breach human rights laws that demand all 'unnatural deaths' are investigated by an inquest.

A clause in the legislation, which MPs are expected to vote on later this month, exempts assisted dying cases from being probed.

But Judge Teague, who stepped down as chief coroner last year, said it was open to legal challenge because of a safeguard in the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) that 'prohibits the intentional taking of life'.

The plans would allow terminally ill adults in England and Wales with less than six months to live to apply for assisted death, subject to approval by two doctors and an expert panel.

But the legislation has proved highly divisive and there are questions over whether it will become law.

In a letter to the Times, Judge Teague wrote: 'The coroners statutory duty to investigate all unnatural deaths, irrespective of whether any misfeasance is alleged, provides a powerful deterrent against wrongdoing...

'By removing any realistic prospect of an effective inquest, such a dispensation would magnify, rather than diminish, the obvious risks of deception and undue influence and would expose the bill to legal challenge.'

Judge Thomas Teague KC said that the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill appeared to breach human rights laws that demand all 'unnatural deaths' are investigated by an inquest.

The plans being spearheaded by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater would allow terminally ill adults in England and Wales with less than six months to live to apply for death.

Last week it was revealed legalising assisted dying would save the taxpayer 10million in NHS costs in its first year.

An official impact assessment of the plan by the Government said annual savings would rise to just under 60million by the time of its 10th year in operation.

When the new laws had been in force for a decade the number of patients opting to go through with assisted suicide would be more than 4,500 a year  equivalent to 12 ending their own lives every day.

It euphemistically described the NHS savings as unutilised healthcare  because the patient will be dead.

It is the first time the government has effectively put a price on a human life in relation to the highly-controversial proposed laws.

The new documents - slipped out at 4pm on the evening before the Bank Holiday weekend - also set out tens of millions of pounds of savings each year in care home charges and local authority care workers.

It even set out how much would go unspent on pensions and benefits.

For the state pension, the document estimated a saving of up to 2.17million in the first year after assisted dyings legalisation, rising to 18.3million in its tenth year.

But the legislation has proved highly divisive and there are questions over whether it will become law.

The proposed legislation has gone through significant changes since it made it through an initial Commons vote in November.

The High Court safeguard has been dropped and replaced by expert panels, while the implementation period has been doubled to a maximum of four years for an assisted dying service to be in place, should the Bill pass into law.
Pub chain Wetherspoons has announced plans to launch 15 sites in the coming days amid a surge in sales.

The firm has unveiled two new pubs so far this year and hopes to build on that number.

It comes as Wetherspoons revealed this morning that like-for-like purchases had jumped 5.6 per cent in the 13 weeks to April 27.

Six locations have already been confirmed with around nine more due to open by July 2026, The Sun reports.

First up is The Conister Arms in Douglas on the Isle of Man, which will open on May 14.

Next is Walham Green at Fulham Broadway, south-west London, with an opening date of June 17.

The Dictum of Kenilworth in Warwickshire will open on July 30, while The Sun Wharf on Tooley Street near London Bridge will welcome punters on August 26.

On September 23, The King of Essex in Basildon will open its doors.

The company has already unveiled two new pubs this year and plans to build on that number

The national landscape also presents a less than pretty picture as, last month, figures from the British Beer and Pub Association showed around six pubs closed every week last year

And finally, a pub in Merchant Square, Paddington, is set to open later this summer - though the exact date is yet to be confirmed.

In the last quarter, Wetherspoons unveiled four new franchised pubs in partnership with Haven Holiday Parks.

Where are the pubs opening? Douglas, Isle of Man - May 14

Fulham, SW London - June 17

Kenilworth, Warwickshire - July 30

Tooley Street, London Bridge - August 28

Basildon, Essex - September 23

Merchant Square, Paddington - late summer The company is also planning to launch an additional nine pubs over the next financial year. Advertisement

These include The Red Rocks at Devon Cliffs, The Humber Stone at Cleethorpes Beach in Lincolnshire, The London Stone at Kent Coast, and The Sir Thomas Haggerston at Haggerston Castle in Northumberland.

It's not always been sunshine and rainbows for the company, as in the latest quarter Wetherspoons sold seven venues - as sales rose by a modest 5 per cent (and by 4 per cent for the year so far).

The national landscape also presents a less than pretty picture as, last month, British Beer and Pub Association figures showed around six pubs closed every week last year - leading to the loss of 4,500 jobs across England and Wales.

According to the trade body, 289 pubs called last orders for the final time in 2024, and more closures are expected this year amid higher National Insurance contributions and minimum wage rises.

In January, the chain told The Sun it had increased the price of some of its drinks and meal deals by up to 30p.

Although the cost of certain drinks - such as Budweiser, Carling and Coors - remained unchanged.

Wetherspoons is also expected to introduce a 'gourmet' food range from May 14. Pictured: The Penderel's Oak, a Wetherspoon's pub in High Holborn, London

Despite the challenges, Wetherspoons is optimistic for a 'reasonable' full-year result.

Chairman Tim Martin said: 'The company's main ambition, as always, is to improve its appeal to staff and customers.

'In this connection, for example, the company has invested in new staff facilities in 520 pubs (49 in the current year), including staff rooms and changing rooms, with approximately 270 planned for the future.

'The investment per pub is approximately 100,000. The product range for customers continues to evolve.'

The comments come as Wetherspoons is expected to introduce a 'gourmet' food range from May 14.

Among its features are a range of burgers including The Big Smoke - complete with pulled BBQ beef brisket, American-style cheese, and maple-cured bacon.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has slammed ousted Greens MP Max Chandler-Mather for claims that parliament's behaviour was 'bloody awful'.

The high-profile politician said on Tuesday that he was often 'screamed and yelled at' by Labor MPs to the point he felt like vomiting.

Among the claims he made to Triple J Hack, Mr Chandler-Mather said Mr Albanese had often levied 'personal abuse' at him in the House.

'The Prime Minister spent a lot of time in my electorate attacking me, the property industry, the mining industry, all coming after us,' he said.

'We would get up (in the House) and say "all we want is for the government to do something for the one-third of the country that rents" and I had the Prime Minister come up to me in the Chamber and call me a "joke" and personally abuse me.'

But Mr Albanese has said the former MP, who lost his Brisbane-based seat of Griffith to Labor in Saturday's federal election, needed to look at his own behaviour.

'He should have a good look at the way that he asks questions in the parliament,' the Prime Minister told ABC's 7.30.

'Maybe what he needs is a mirror and a reflection on why he's no longer in parliament.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (pictured) pushed back on Max Chandler-Mather's claims that he was personally abusive towards the ex Greens MP, saying he 'needs a mirror'

Mr Chandler-Mather said the Prime Minister called him a 'joke' and personally abused him during his time in parliament

'This is a guy who stood before signs at a CFMEU rally in Brisbane describing me as a Nazi.

'I think it's a bit rich for him of all people...who has been rejected by his own electorate after just one term.'

The Prime Minister also took aim at Greens Leader Adam Bandt, describing the politician's electoral seat of Melbourne as 'under a cloud' during the interview.

'It's very difficult to see a pathway in which he will resume his seat in parliament,' Mr Albanese said.

Mr Bandt officially lost his seat, which he has held since 2010, to Labors Sarah Witty earlier on Wednesday.

It was despite a Greens press release claiming on Saturday night that he expects the count to elect him in Melbourne.

The Greens had been seen as a barrier to progress after they joined forces with the Liberals to block some of Labor's housing reforms.

Renee Coffey, the Labor challenger who ousted Mr Chandler-Mather, said voters were most concerned with cost of living and housing issues.

Mr Chandler-Mather lost his Brisbane-based seat of Griffith to Labor in Saturday's federal election

(The other seat) is fundamentally a progressive electorate and people were wanting to see real change and progress,' she told the ABC.

'So I think there was some disappointment with some of the blocking that went on and this idea of protest.'

Kos Samaras, a former Victorian Labor strategist and Redbridge Group director, said the Greens had turned into a movement fuelling civil unrest and disruption.

The party clearly recognised this too late after a string of poor results at state, territory, and local government elections, he said.

Mr Bandt and Mr Chandler-Mather join former Coalition leader Peter Dutton and Greens colleague Stephen Bates among the high-profile politicians unseated at the weekend.
Jazz beyond borders: Chinese music festival celebrates cross-cultural harmony

Xinhua) 09:54, May 07, 2025

Musicians perform during the 2025 Taihu Jazz Festival at the Taihu Stage Art Center, a branch of China's National Center for the Performing Arts (NCPA) in Beijing, capital of China, April 30, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Meiqi)

BEIJING, May 6 (Xinhua) -- At a Chinese international jazz festival that wrapped up on Monday, musicians from across the world delivered a dazzling fusion of jazz and cross-cultural collaborations.

The 2025 Taihu Jazz Festival, which was held at the Taihu Stage Art Center, a branch of China's National Center for the Performing Arts (NCPA) in Beijing, attracted over 200 musicians from nine countries.

As Yannick Rieu, a renowned Canadian saxophonist, noted in an interview with Xinhua, "Jazz is a vibrant musical form that transcends borders and differences."

During the festival, Rieu presented a jazz quartet centered around the theme of integration, in which he especially included an adaptation of the Chinese folk song "Yimeng Mountain." "The song deeply moved me -- from the first listen, I felt an intimate emotional connection."

While recomposing the song, the musician strove to preserve its soul and infuse it with jazz's signature freedom and improvisation, allowing Eastern and Western voices to naturally blend together.

"From majestic landscapes to unique folk traditions and vibrant regional music, China's rich and diverse culture is an endless source of inspiration for me," said Rieu, who has traveled and performed in China nearly 20 times since 2006.

Over the years, he has witnessed China's rapid evolution -- not only in its infrastructure but also in its thriving arts scene. "New festivals, music schools and clubs are springing up in China, nurturing a wave of exceptional young musicians eager to blend jazz with their own cultural identity," he said.

Li Xiaochuan, a rising star in the Chinese jazz scene, stands out as a talented trumpet player and composer. This time at the Taihu festival, he merged not only traditional Chinese instruments but also artificial intelligence (AI) into his composition and performance.

"We must dare to experiment, distill our insights, and share them with students and audiences, sparking fresh perspectives through transformative musical experiences," said Li, who is also an associate professor at Shanghai Conservatory of Music, stressing the importance to embrace AI in music education and performance.

"Jazz should never become museum music -- it must speak with a contemporary voice," he added.

Li's opinion is echoed by Argentinian pianist Adrian Hugo Iaies and his trio members. For them, the term jazz, which originated in the West, is more of a tool or musical approach rather than a precise style after years of constant evolving, expanding and changing.

"The music I wrote for the trio is music that has a very strong connection with Argentinian traditions. It's music that sounds in our towns and households," he said.

Meanwhile, at the festival, HAYA, a world-renowned music band rooted in Chinese ethnic music, such as Mongolian, Kazakh and Tibetan music, showcased the vitality of traditional sounds by blending them with modern elements.

"Music is a universal language of all peoples," said Zhang Quansheng, founder and Morin Khuur player of HAYA, adding that it is vital to draw upon the strengths of diverse musical traditions.

In recent years, China has been endeavoring to promote music exchanges with the rest of the world. "Culture knows no borders. We'll continue to build a highland of jazz in China to bridge divides and foster mutual understanding," said Guan Jianbo, vice president of the NCPA.

Yannick Rieu (L), a renowned Canadian saxophonist, performs during the 2025 Taihu Jazz Festival at the sub-venue in Langfang, north China's Hebei Province, May 1, 2025. (Xinhua)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
An Australian mum has been left stunned after discovering two items completely rotten in her bag of 'click and collect' groceries.

The mother said she made the order with a north Gold Coast Woolworths on Sunday night before her husband picked it up on Tuesday morning.

She said her husband noticed the 'Woolworths Essentials' frozen chips in her order were a warm 'mashed and mouldy mess'.

Her son also made his own ugly discovery.

'Later in the night my teenage son went into the kitchen for something to eat and opened the chicken to find it unrecognisable  it was just a stinking black blob,' she told the Courier Mail.

She said the tenders were within the used by date by a year, but her son took them from the bag and showed her the fillets.

She claimed the chicken smelled foul and was covered in green and black mould.

'It was as if someone had fished it out of a bin and put it in our order,' she said.

A mother's shocking mouldy find after shopping at a north Gold Coast Woolworths

The 'Woolworths Essentials' frozen chips were found warm

She said she'd previously had minor click-and-collect order issues, but they had been rectified quickly.

The mother said she reached out to the supermarket online to lodge a complaint.

Woolworths issued a $4 refund for the chips, but the tenders had been mistakenly included in the delivery and were not refunded.

The mother said she wasn't concerned by the refunds, but instead wanted to know how the accident happened.

On Wednesday, a representative apologised for the damage caused by the products.

She offered up a $20 store credit, but could not explain the mix-up.

A Woolworths spokesman said the supermarket was investigating the incident.

'Woolworths is aware of a customer report concerning two items in their recent online order which presented with mould,' they said.

A Woolworths spokesman said the supermarket was aware of the issue and was investigating

'We take food safety very seriously and have strict food safety management processes.

'Our Customer Hub team are in contact with the customer and have refunded their order.

'While we are actively investigating how this incident has occurred, it appears to be an isolated incident'.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Woolworths for comment.
A woman and seven-year-old boy are dead after a car rolled off a rural road and hit a tree in south-west Queensland.

Emergency services were called to Chinchilla Wondai Road, 5km from the rural town of Chinchilla, at 4:10pm on Wednesday.

Queensland Fire Department said two crews found a grey Mitsubishi Pajero that had crashed and three occupants needed to be cut free from the wreck.

The driver of the vehicle, a 30-year-old Elimbah woman, sustained serious injuries and was treated by paramedics but died at the scene.

Two other passengers, a seven-year-old boy and nine-year-old girl, were airlifted to Chinchilla Hospital, and the boy was declared dead a short time later.

The nine-year-old girl remained in a serious but stable condition, Queensland Police said.

Officers from the forensic crash unit have launched an investigation into the circumstances of the incident.

Anyone who may have any relevant information or video footage has been urged come forward while the investigation remains ongoing.

Emergency services were called to Chinchilla Wondai Road, 5km from the rural town of Chinchilla in south-west Queensland after reports of a crash
Keir Starmer squirmed over the winter fuel allowance today as he was accused of hammering pensioners.

During a bad-tempered PMQs, Kemi Badenoch said the government was 'balancing the books on the backs' of the older generation.

The Tory leader accused him of being on 'another planet' over his Net Zero policies as she seized on growing panic on Labour benches after the local elections.

But Sir Keir retorted that only Labour was addressing the 'challenges we face', pointing to the trade deal with India announced yesterday.

Sir Keir is under huge pressure to change direction following the dire performance in the local contests. Labour lost the Runcorn by-election along with nearly 200 councillors as Reform translated its polling into real power.

The Red Wall group of Labour MPs met last night and issued a statement urging Sir Keir to 'rebuild' trust.

The group said that 'responding to the issues raised by our constituents, including on winter fuel, isn't weak'.

The unrest was fuelled today as a poll showed Reform's support hitting a new record high.

Nigel Farage's party was on 29 per cent in the latest YouGov poll carried out in the wake of the local elections, up three on last week.

That was seven points ahead of Labour, who were down one. The research found the Tories were on just 17 per cent, the lowest since the end of Theresa May's leadership.

Keir Starmer squirmed over the winter fuel allowance today as he was accused of hammering pensioners

During a bad-tempered PMQs, Kemi Badenoch said the government was 'balancing the books on the backs' of the older generation

Your browser does not support iframes.

Nigel Farage's (pictured yesterday) party was on 29 per cent in the latest YouGov poll carried out in the wake of the local elections, up three on last week

Electoral Calculus projections suggest that would be enough for Reform to win a 40-strong majority if repeated at a general election.

A separate survey has suggested Labour is on track to come third in Welsh elections due next year - a long way behind Plaid and Reform.

Louise Haigh, who resigned as a Cabinet minister in November, said a shift was needed on winter fuel and benefits curbs.

She told the BBC's Newsnight: 'I don't think we can underestimate how catastrophic those results were last week for the Labour Party people don't really feel that we're taking the action to address the issues that matter, whether that be on the cost of living, the public services or on the economy more widely, and that's very frustrating.

'I think the unpopular decisions are overshadowing the good ones. I think this Labour government has a lot to offer, whether it be the Employment Rights Bill, the increase in the minimum wage, the massive investment in our NHS, but people have heard the winter fuel allowance and the welfare cuts overwhelmingly.'

Ms Haigh said Labour should 'properly explore' a tax on the wealthy as an alternative to 'cutting public spending and cutting money from the people who can least afford it'.

She told the BBC: 'There are other options on the table be it a land tax, be it proper reform of council tax that hasn't been reformed since the '90s.

'We just cannot continue down this path that means, as I say, we keep coming and raiding those people that can least afford it.'

Welsh First Minister Baroness Eluned Morgan said yesterday the decision to means-test the previously universal benefit was 'something that comes up time and again' as she called for a 'rethink'.

The Guardian reported that, while a full restoration of the universal winter fuel payment was unlikely, the Government was considering whether to increase the 11,500 threshold over which pensioners are no longer eligible for the allowance.

However, Downing Street flatly ruled out a change in the policy yesterday - hours after Health Secretary Wes Streeting seemed to leave the door open.

Keir Starmer is under huge pressure to change direction following the dire performance in the local contests

Your browser does not support iframes.

The decision last July to restrict the winter fuel payment to the poorest pensioners was intended to save around 1.5billion a year, with more than nine million people who would have previously been eligible losing out.

Cabinet ministers acknowledged the winter fuel payment decision had hit the party at the ballot box.

Asked whether the cut had been part of Labour's poor electoral performance, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: 'I think that has been a feature.

'I think the Prime Minister himself has said that and we're not sugar-coating those results, they're very challenging for us.'
Two families have been shattered after a chiropractor's son was accused of a 'sensitive crime' against a child...spurring the alleged victim's father into a devastating act of vigilantism.

Jeffrey Endres, 49, mowed down and killed neighbor Dr Kami Hansen as she walked with her husband Paul and one of the couple's three sons in Cottage Grove, Wisconsin, on April 28.

Endres' child was said to have been targeted by Hansen's 'juvenile' son in what investigators have called a 'sensitive crime' that was uncovered in March.

Police have not released any further details of the allegations, including the age or gender of the alleged victim. Hansen's son was labeled a 'juvenile' in an arrest report but his age is also unclear.

Endres was reportedly so distraught by the alleged crime that he sought to kill Hansen's son in an act of revenge.

But he ended up mowing down Kami Hansen while doing 40mph and killing her instead.

The force of the impact threw the popular chiropractor 30 feet into the air, knocked the shoes off her feet and also killed the family's pet pit bull.

Hansen's husband and son both survived. One of the couple's other children watched the horror unfold from their front yard.

Kami Hansen (pictured) was killed when neighbor Jeffrey Endres allegedly accelerated into her and her family on April 28, which prosecutors said was the result of him discovering her son was accused by cops of 'victimizing' his child

Jeffrey Endres, 49, was accused of a shocking act of vigilante justice after allegedly plowing into his neighbors as they were on an evening walk, killing the family's mother and dog. As he faced charges including first-degree homicide, he was found dead in his cell on Tuesday morning

Further bloodshed was to follow just weeks later. Endres was badly injured in the crash and arrested. He made his first court appearance on murder charges Monday but was found dead in his jail cell Tuesday.

No cause of death was given and an investigation into what happened has been launched.

Hansen and Endres were neighbors and the two families were close until one of Hansen's sons was accused of a 'sensitive crime' against one of Endres' children.

According to the criminal complaint, Hansen's widower Paul told investigators that their families had been close friends up until March 2025, when his son was 'accused of a sensitive crime' against Endres' child.

Officers were reportedly looking through students' phones at a school for an unrelated investigation when they found 'several videos' that 'appeared to be the victimization of (Endres') minor child', the filing stated.

Endres made his first appearance in court Monday and appeared at Dane County Court where he was charged with first-degree homicide and two counts of attempted first-degree homicide.

The father-of-two's bond was set at $1 million.

But Endres was found dead in his cell at Dane County Jail around 6am the following morning, the Longview News Journal reported.

The criminal case against him will now be dismissed.

Endres' death means two families have been shattered by a horrific sequence of events just months after their friendship imploded.

Hansen's husband told officers that their children were on the same gymnastics team and they often carpooled to practices and meets together, and that their children 'were considered best friends.'

The March allegation of a 'sensitive crime' against one of the Hansen children also led to a 'no contact' order between the families.

Hansen's son appeared in a Zoom court hearing on March 28, in which Endres appeared 'distraught' as he had asked the court to keep Hansen's son away from their neighborhood, but a judge allowed him to return home, per the filing.

On April 23, five days before the Hansen family was hit by a car, Endres opened a records request with the Cottage Grove Police for a copy of his child's case report, and he was given this report just hours before the horror crash.

'The reports provided by the Village of Cottage Grove Police to the defendant contained detailed descriptions of videos purporting to show the victimization of the defendants minor child,' the complaint stated.

Hours later, Endres allegedly spotted Hansen, her husband and her son walking around 6:30pm and accelerated into them, in what prosecutors described in court as 'essentially an act of vigilante justice.'

Hansen's husband told investigators that the families were close and their children were 'considered best friends', until Hansen's son was accused by police in March 2025 that shattered the neighbor's relationship

Witnesses said a car allegedly driven by Endres accelerated and 'jerked' sideways into the family at over 40mph, killing Hansen and severely injuring her son

An Uber driver who witnessed the collision told cops that he initially feared Endres was going to rear-end him at high speed, before he 'jerked' to the side and mounted the curb.

'If hes telling you he veered off the roadway, then hes lying to you,' the witness said, per WMTV15. 'I saw that vehicle jerk.'

According to the criminal complaint, Endres remained at the scene after hitting the family, and told officers he was 'having a bad day' and had 'no comment' on the crash.

He later claimed that he lost control of his vehicle going at 25 mph as he was driving to the gas station, with witnesses countering that he was going at over 40mph.

Kami Hansen was a renowned chiropractor at Heartland Family Chiropractic

An Uber driver who witnessed the collision told cops that he initially feared Endres was going to rear-end him at high speed, before he 'jerked' to the side and mounted the curb (cops are seen at the scene on April 28)

Hansen was raced to hospital where she died hours later from her injuries, and her son required emergency surgery as he suffered injuries across his body and a concussion.

Hansen's husband sustained cuts to his leg, and the family's black pit bull also died at the scene.

Endres was pictured badly bruised and wearing a neck brace in his mugshot after the crash.

But he was conscious and there is no suggestion that the injuries he suffered were what ended up killing him.

Had he not died, he would have been due back in court on May 14 for a preliminary hearing and faced life in prison if convicted.
Joe Biden claimed it took him so long to bow out of the 2024 presidential race because he was being 'successful' in office.

The 82-year-old former president also said it there would have been no difference if he had withdrawn sooner, implying that Kamala Harris would have lost anyway.

Biden whispered, mumbled, coughed, and paused for long moments as he conducted his first broadcast interview since leaving office.

When asked why he did not end his 2024 campaign earlier, he told BBC Radio 4's Today program: 'I don't think it would have mattered.'

Much of Biden's presidency was overshadowed by questions about his cognitive state. After a disastrous debate against Donald Trump on June 27 last year he took nearly a month to finally end his reelection bid, finally calling time on July 21.

That gave Harris just 106 days to build-out a presidential campaign, and she ultimately lost to Trump in November.

'It's a question lots of people ask you, Mr. President  did you leave it too late? Should you have withdrawn earlier, given someone else a bigger chance?' BBC journalist Nick Robinson asked.

'We left at a time when we had a good candidate,' Biden said of Harris in the interview that aired Wednesday morning. 'She was fully funded.'

Former President Joe Biden spoke out about his eleventh-hour decision to drop out of the 2024 presidential election in his first broadcast interview since leaving office in January

'And what happened was, what we had set out to do, no one thought we could do,' the former president added. 'We had become so successful in our agenda, it was hard to say, 'I'm gonna stop now.''

The eleventh-hour decision has been widely criticized by Democrats who felt that if Biden had given into the pressure earlier it could have made a difference to the 2024 election outcome.

Biden told the BBC that when he was elected in 2020 he had initially intended to serve only one term.

The former president said he wanted to be a transitional figure for the future of the Democratic Party after defeating Trump in 2020.

'I meant what I said when I started, that I'm preparing to hand this to the next generationbut things moved so quickly, and it made it difficult to walk away,' he admitted.

Biden's demeanor in the interview was reminiscent of the latter stages of his presidential term, riddled with mumbles, nonsensical rants and long pauses.

He struggled to properly articulate his thoughts, at times speaking in whispers and refused to ever address the current president by his name.

Trump's communications director Steven Cheung said: 'Joe Biden is a complete disgrace to this country and the office he occupied.

'He has clearly lost all mental faculties and his handlers thought it'd be a good idea for him to do an interview and incoherently mumble his way through every answer.'

Cheung added: 'Sadly, this feels like abuse.'

Biden told USA Today in one of his final interviews before ending his one-term presidency that he thought he could have won in a rematch with Trump if he stayed in the race.

But polling and public sentiment showed a very different story with Biden heading for a landslide loss.

Biden told BBC Radio 4's Today program host Nick Robinson that he doesn't think the 2024 election outcome would have been different if he dropped his reelection bid earlier

Biden ended his reelection bid on July 21, 2024, which gave then-Vice President Kamala Harris just 106 days to build-out the presidential campaign

Biden opted for his first post-presidency broadcast interview to be with a foreign outlet.

It was pre-recorded on Monday in the former president's home town of Wilmington, Delaware.

The interview was billed as marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe.

In the sit-down Biden lashed out at his Republican successor.

In particular, he lambasted Trump for his comments on taking over Canada, Greenland and the Panama Canal, and renaming the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America.

'What the hell's going on here? What president ever talks like that? That's not who we are,' the former president said. 'We're about freedom, democracy, opportunity, not about confiscation.'

He also voiced worries about U.S. relations with Europe declining after Trump took over.

Biden expressed 'grave concern' over the breakdown of post-World War II alliances and called it 'foolish' to think Russian President Vladimir Putin would concede the war in Ukraine if parts of the country were given to the Kremlin as part of a peace deal.
Keir Starmer hailed the new free trade deal with India as a 'huge win' for Britain today as he over-rode criticism about its tax breaks for India workers.

Sir Keir used Prime Ministers Questions to taunt the Tories, saying the 5bn agreement was the largest made by the UK since Brexit.

He spoke after ministers came under fire for giving Indian employees of Indian firms working in the UK a three-year exemption from national insurance payments.

The sweetener - which is reciprocal for UK workers in India - avoids people being taxed twice at home and abroad.

The Tories and others accused the government of creating a 'two-tier' system that gave Indian workers an advantage.

National Insurance contributions for British firms were increased in last year's Budget.

Ministers today insisted it was a common part of international agreements, with the previous Tory government handing a five-year exemption to Chile in 2012.

But after PMQs Downing Street said the 'final details' had not yet been agreed, suggesting there was still wriggle room.

Sir Keir used Prime Ministers Questions to taunt the Tories, saying the 5bn agreement was the largest made by the UK since Brexit .

Business secretary Jonathan Reynolds, the architect of the agreement, came out swinging this morning as Labour faced a major backlash to the 5bn agreement announced yesterday.

Asked whether the agreement meant Indian workers paying less tax than British counterparts doing the same job, Mr Reynolds told the Today programme: 'No.'

Opening PMQs, Sir Keir said: 'The landmark deal we have done with India is a huge win for working people in this country.

'After years of negotiations this government has delivered in months, slashing tariffs, boosting wages, unleashing opportunities for UK businesses.

It is the biggest trade deal the UK has delivered since we left the EU.'

And he revisited the deal when he clashed with Tory leader Kemi Badenoch over plans to make winter fuel payments means tested.

After he asked if would admit he was 'wrong to remove the winter fuel payment from millions of pensioners', he said: 'The number one job of this Government was to put our finances back in order after the last government lost control...

'Because of the work that we have done, we are a country that countries like India want to do deals with, because of the messages and the work that we have done.'

Downing Street was unable to provide estimates of how the UK-India trade deal may impact immigration or tax-take in Britain.

Asked whether there was an assessment on the impact on migration numbers of the agreement, the Prime Minister's official spokesman said: 'We don't do individual line-by-line assessments on free trade deals.

'We do an overall impact assessment on the impact of a trade deal on the economy obviously, and the ONS and others, the OBR will continue to do their analysis as well and provide the usual updates on immigration figures.'

He said the national insurance exemption for some Indian workers applied to a 'specific, business mobility, intra-company transfer schemes' and not wider migration.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds this morning said critics of the deal were 'confused' and suggested unhappy Tories were jealous they had not managed to achieve a deal when they were in government.

Speaking to the BBC he said the UK has similar deals with 50 other countries including the US, Japan and Chile, the latter getting a five-year exemption from the Tories a few years ago.

Writing for MailOnline, shadow business secretary Andrew Griffith said it could put 'hardworking Brits and British companies ... at a competitive disadvantage against Indian companies bringing in Indian workers'.

Writing for MailOnline, shadow business secretary Andrew Griffith said it could put 'hardworking Brits and British companies ... at a competitive disadvantage against Indian companies bringing in Indian workers'.

Asked whether the agreement meant Indian workers paying less tax than British counterparts doing the same job, Mr Reynolds told the Today programme: 'No.'

He added: 'There is no situation where I would ever tolerate British workers being undercut through any trade agreement we would sign. That is not part of this deal.

'What the Conservatives are confused about, and Reform as well, is a situation where a business in India seconds someone for a short period of time to the UK, or a UK business seconds a worker to India for a short period of time, where you don't pay in simultaneously now to both social security systems.'

The agreement will see workers who are seconded to the UK offices of Indian-based employers, or a multi-national with offices in the country, exempt from NI for the first three years  allowing them to avoid paying both at home, as per Indian law, and in the UK.

The firm will also not have to pay the contributions. The deal will be reciprocal for British workers transferred to workplaces in India.

Officials have not provided an assessment of the cost or impact on UK businesses.

The change is understood to have been a key demand by New Delhi's negotiators who said the agreement, which has been three years in the making, will result in 'significant financial gains' for Indian companies.

The deal will also see the UK lower tariffs on clothes, shoes and food such as frozen prawns from the subcontinent, in exchange for reciprocal cuts for products including whisky and cars.

The tax break was not mentioned by Downing Street in its announcement.

But a statement by the Indian government said it would 'lead to significant financial gains for the Indian service providers and enhance their competitiveness in the UK market that would create new job opportunities as well as benefit large number of Indians working in the UK'.

Grim figures yesterday revealed the UK's services sector had shrunk for the first time in 18 months, blamed on the NI increase  which came into force in April  and Donald Trump's trade war.

Ministers say the long-coveted agreement will add 4.8 billion a year to the economy by 2040, with dramatic reductions to levies on scotch whisky, car and other exports from Britain.

More than a dozen rounds of talks involving successive governments have taken place since 2022.

Mr Reynolds and Indian commerce minister Piyush Goyal held final talks in London last week after relaunching negotiations two months ago.

'Two-tier' Keir has sold British workers down the river, writes Andrew Griffith

Keir Starmer campaigned energetically for a second referendum with free movement of people.

He used every trick in the book to try and prevent the UK leaving the EU.

He blocked our Brexit deal 48 times when he was Jeremy Corbyn's bag carrier.

How ironic then, that he is the biggest beneficiary of a Brexit benefit  the India trade deal.

I am yet to hear Labour Ministers crowing about the India Trade deal thank Brexit through gritted teeth for this free trade arrangement. I won't hold my breath.

Unlike the EU, India is on the up. It has an outstanding entrepreneurial spirit and British businesses do well exporting Scottish Whisky, cars, and high-tech aerospace products there. It's why we spent three long years doing the hard yards negotiating the deal.

It could boost our economy, provide some relief to bosses battered by this Labour government and improve trade with one of the fastest growing economies in the world.

But it seems that, as per usual, when Labour negotiates, Britain loses. And today, it is truer than ever  Two tier Keir has been up to his usual tricks, and sold British workers down the river.

Whilst Labour have hiked the Jobs Tax on British workers, they have given a tax cut to Indian workers.

That means hardworking Brits and British companies could be at a competitive disadvantage against Indian companies bringing in Indian workers.

Whilst Labour have hiked the Jobs Tax on British workers, they have given a tax cut to Indian workers.

Unsurprisingly, there was no mention of this own goal in any UK government announcement. But Narendra Modi proudly announced it himself and exposed what Keir Starmer tried to bury from the British public.

Labour tried to cover it up, but it was never going to work when the Indian government was so delighted with its negotiating victory. They've been caught in the act.

It means India's biggest win is flooding the UK market with its people. Bizarrely, under this deal, yoga teachers, buskers and takeaway chefs now qualify as skilled labour  meaning they will also be able to bring their dependents. Keir Starmer seems determined to make us the soft touch immigration capital of the world and never misses an opportunity to surrender.

Already, because of Labour's choices, business confidence is tanking, prices are up and growth is down, all while immigration and taxes are at record highs. In Labour's desperation to try and undo some of the damage they have levelled on British businesses, they risk making everything significantly worse.

As with all of these things, the devil is in the detail. And we will look closely at the details of this deal, but it already seems to be unravelling before our eyes.
A major renewables project which would have created nearly 1,000 jobs has been shelved in a blow to the SNPs net zero goal.

Drax is putting on hold a 500million expansion of the Cruachan pumped-storage hydroelectric power station in Argyll, which it said was aimed at supporting the Nationalists green agenda.

The company said Cruachan can help solve intermittency issues with other forms of renewable power when the wind doesnt blow and the sun doesnt shine.

Initial design and engineering work for Cruachan II were completed last year - but Drax said the plans were now being temporarily shelved because of rising costs over the past years.

The blow came as John Swinneys programme for government, unveiled yesterday, said net zero presents significant opportunities for people, communities, and businesses to create a green industrial revolution.

Last night Scottish Tory energy and net zero spokesman Douglas Lumsden said: This is a major setback for John Swinney who typically talked up his green credentials in his programme for government.

However, when projects like this are hitting the skids, Scots wont be fooled by his empty promises.

We all want to tackle climate change, but not at the cost of higher bills for families and businesses.

Plans for Cruachan dam and upper reservoir in Argyll have been shelved

Drax said it still backs the project and its location next to Loch Awe - but it will no longer be taking part in the first phase of a UK Government funding scheme that was meant to encourage such developments.

It will keep the option open as a potential scheme for the future, subject to an appropriate balance of risk and return.

Pumped storage means water released from the upper reservoir (Cruachan) flows via a series of tunnels and pipes through the turbine and into the lower reservoir (Loch Awe).

The flow of water rotates the turbine which in turn rotates a generator to produce electricity.

Excess electricity from the National Grid can then be used to drive the turbine in the opposite direction, to pump water from the lower reservoir back up into the upper reservoir.

Drax is putting on hold a 500m expansion of the Cruachan pumped-storage hydroelectric power station in Argyll

An 80million investment to refurbish and upgrade two units at the existing Cruachan Power Station is still progressing.

In 2021, Drax said in a consultation document that the Cruachan extension supports Scottish Government goals for net zero and green recovery.

Last night a Drax spokesman said: In 2024, Drax completed initial design and engineering work on an option for a 600MW expansion of Cruachan.

Drax believes that the Cruachan II project is well-aligned with the long-term system need for flexible generation and energy storage and, given its location, is well-placed to support system constraints between Scotland and England.

In April 2025, the UK Government invited applications from developers for the first phase of a cap and floor scheme, intended to incentivise the development of new long duration capacity [energy storage systems which can store and release electricity for extended periods, typically 8 hours or more].

The projected cost of Cruachan II has risen over the past two years, whilst at the same time the recoverability of all capital invested in the project remains unclear.

Therefore, Drax will not participate in this first phase of the cap and floor scheme but will retain the option for potential future development, subject to an appropriate balance of risk and return.

Tory MSP Douglas Lumsden said the move by Drax was a 'major blow' to the SNP 's net zero goal

The cap and floor regime provides a minimum revenue guarantee for investors - the floor - to provide debt security, and a cap on revenues to avoid excessive returns.

A spokesman for the UK Government's Department for Energy Security and Net Zero said: 'Storing energy is key to reaching our clean energy mission and we are reversing a legacy that has seen no new long-duration electricity storage built for forty years.

Acting Net Zero Secretary Gillian Martin said: Im very disappointed to learn that plans for Cruachan II have been paused.

Large-scale, long-duration energy storage, such as pumped hydro storage, is vital in lessening our dependence on fossil fuels for electricity generation and helping to reach our net zero goals.

A project like Cruachan II would help maximise our significant renewable energy generating capacity by providing flexibility to the Grid, ensuring there is a continuous resilient and secure supply of electricity to households and businesses.

I hope Drax reconsiders its decision.

'The cap and floor scheme will support large projects which can provide continuous energy over eight hours when the grid requires it.

'This has been widely welcomed by industry, including the British Hydropower Association, and Ofgem is receiving strong interest from projects planning to submit applications.'
A Gran Canaria bar owner has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a woman's dismembered body was found on the holiday island.

Police believe the person who killed the 41-year-old Colombian woman first stabbed her in the neck before trying to dismember the body, chopping at her legs, whilst she was unconscious.

Part of her neck had also been hacked off and she is said to have bled to death.

Forensic officers say they think it was an attempt to try to dispose of her corpse in a container or bags before her remains were eventually dumped on a popular beach in San Andres.

The bar where the owner was arrested has been sealed off with police tape and an armed guard, with residents and tourists expressing their horror.

It is thought the murder may have been committed inside the bar popular with local residents and holidaymakers.

Police say the woman had sent a text to a friend saying she was going to a party on April 25 and was not seen alive after that.

A person walking on the Los Enanos beach in Aruquense near San Andres discovered her mutilated body and called the police.

Police have closed off the bar, and are currently searching for evidence there

It is understood the suspect had run his bar for several years and it was a popular and well-known haunt for its food and friendly atmosphere

Tourists on the holiday island of Gran Canaria have been shocked twice over after the gruesome discovery of a 'cut-up' body on the beach (File image)

Because of the violent nature of the woman's death, the Armed Forces' Homicide Unit was activated and a search began for her murderer.

The owner of the bar-cafe was arrested at his home in Las Torres yesterday and is due in court in the coming days.

A search has been made at both his house and business premises, a police operation which lasted over two hours.

Several police officers wearing balaclavas took away a number of sealed plastic bags as they collected possible evidence.

A large crowd gathered outside the taped-off premises.

It is understood the suspect had run his bar for several years and it was a popular and well-known haunt for its food and friendly atmosphere. There was also talk of frequent late-night parties.

The motive for the murder has not yet been determined.

The investigation remains open and police have not ruled out further arrests.

The bar where the owner was arrested (pictured) has been sealed off with police tape and an armed guard

A Gran Canaria bar owner (pictured) has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a woman's dismembered body was found on a beach popular with tourists

It comes just days after a man plunged 100ft to his death after losing his balance while trying to take a scenic selfie from a Canary Islands hotel rooftop.

The 48-year-old had been on the eighth floor of the building in the La Puntilla area of Las Canteras in the early hours of Sunday morning before the terrifying fall.

The man, who was a resident of the Canary Islands, had climbed onto the railing of the rooftop terrace in an apparent attempt to take a photo, police sources told local media.

He then became unstable and plummeted off the roof to the promenade below at around 1.30am.

Emergency services rushed to the scene, but the man was pronounced dead upon their arrival.

He had been accompanied by a friend at the time of the accident.
Rishi Sunak insisted India's attacks on 'terrorist infrastructure' in Pakistan are 'justified' today.

The former PM waded in amid fears the confrontation between the nuclear-armed powers could escalate dramatically.

Pakistan has described Delhi's missile attacks as an 'act of war' and responded with shelling on the Indian side of the line of control.

However, Keir Starmer has been appealing for calm insisting the rising tensions were a 'serious concern'.

In a post on X, Mr Sunak said: 'No nation should have to accept terrorist attacks being launched against it from land controlled by another country.

'India is justified in striking terrorist infrastructure. There can be no impunity for terrorists.'

Rishi Sunak insisted India 's attacks on 'terrorist infrastructure' in Pakistan are 'justified' today

The former PM waded in amid fears the confrontation between the nuclear-armed powers could escalate dramatically

An army soldier examines a building damaged by a suspected Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, today

Your browser does not support iframes.

The Tory MP has Indian heritage and his wife Akshata Murty is the daughter of a prominent Indian billionaire tech mogul.

At least 26 people, including a child, are reported to have died in the missile strikes which came in retaliation to last month's massacre of tourists in the Indian part of Kashmir.

Pakistan responded with shelling  killing seven civilians according to Indian police and medics  and claimed to have shot down Indian fighter jets.

At PMQs Sir Keir said the UK was encouraging 'dialogue, de-escalation and the protection of civilians'.

He said: 'Rising tensions between India and Pakistan will be of serious concern for many across Britain.

'We are engaging urgently with both countries as well as other international partners, encouraging dialogue, de-escalation and the protection of civilians.'

Shocking footage circulating on social media showed massive fireballs erupting as missiles struck targets across Pakistan's eastern Punjab province and Pakistan-controlled Kashmir.

Delhi was quick to stress that its attacks - named Operation Sindoor, after the red pigment traditionally worn by the wives of Hindu men - targeted 'terrorist infrastructure' and did not strike Pakistani military assets, describing them as 'focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature'.

But Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif claimed the strikes hit civilian areas and described them as an 'act of war' as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warned that India's 'heinous act of aggression will not go unpunished,' erasing hopes that a dangerous escalation might still be avoided.

Just hours later, Pakistani missiles reportedly brought down five Indian fighter jets before pounding Indian positions across the Line of Control (LoC), the de facto border separating Indian- and Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, with mortar and artillery.

More than two dozen civilians in Pakistan and at least 10 in India have already been reported dead, with analysts and observers now fearing the conflict could tip into a full-scale war that 'the world cannot afford,' according to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
Luigi Mangione's defense fund hit a million-dollar milestone as the alleged killer spent his 27th birthday behind bars.

Die-hard Mangione fans have rallied behind him as he faces the death penalty in connection to the assassination of UnitedHealthCare CEO Brian Thompson, 50, on December 4, 2024 in Manhattan.

The UPenn alum turned 27 on Tuesday - the same day his crowdfunding campaign exceeded $1 million.

Since the GiveSendGo page's creation on December 9, 2024, when he was arrested from a Pennsylvania McDonald's, more than 28,000 loyal supporters have handed over money for Mangione's mounting legal costs.

These funds are being put towards all three cases being brought against the Maryland native, according to a press release from the campaign.

'Even in a worsening economy, everyday people facing financial hardships of their own continue to provide monetary support for Mr. Mangione,' Mangione's legal committee's statement reads.

'And even as the legal system becomes weaponized in the service of the billionaire class, people across the world continue to insist on the right to due process and to oppose the obvious cruelty of the regime's attempt to kill him.'

Mangione's famously devoted clan of followers flooded him with birthday-inspired donations, with many of them sending $27 to signify the age he turned.

Luigi Mangione's defense fund hit a million-dollar milestone as the alleged killer spent his 27th birthday behind bars (pictured: Mangione in Manhattan court on February 21)

Die-hard Mangione fans have rallied behind him as he faces the death penalty for the assassination of UnitedHealthCare CEO Brian Thompson, 50, on December 4, 2024 (pictured: protestors outside a New York courthouse on December 19)

Along with the cash, people gushed over him and shared encouraging messages as he fights the legal battle of a lifetime

Along with the cash, people gushed over him and shared encouraging messages as he fights the legal battle of a lifetime.

'Happy 27th Birthday To the Sweetest, intelligent, funny, Charming, charismatic, thoughtful, gentleman,' one anonymous donor wrote alongside their $27 contribution.

'I hope you live up to many more birthdays and have the best results in your journey! No matter what happens next, I hope you never dim your light and keep fighting & never change. We love you and wishing you have the best bday.'

Another $27 donor wrote: 'Happy birthday Luigi [heart emoji] Hope next year you can celebrate as a free man.'

While Mangione could not do very much celebrating, supports shared they commemorated the day in their own ways.

'I rode my bike 27 miles the other day in honor of every year of you on earth. Thank you!' someone, who sent over another $27, announced.

The murder suspect pleaded not guilty to all federal stalking and murder charges brought against him on April 25 in Manhattan federal court.

Counter-protester and outspoken conservative artist Scott LoBaido showed up among supporters with a message of his own (pictured: Scott LoBaido outside the courthouse on April 25)

Outside the courthouse, dozens Mangione proponent flaunted signs, urging for his freedom (pictured: protestors on April 25)

Mangione has been accused of shooting and killing the United HealthCare in Manhattan on December 4, 2024 (pictured: surveillance footage of the shooter)

Outside the courthouse, dozens of Mangione proponents flaunted signs, urging for his freedom.

They bore messages including 'Not guilty,' 'Death by deductible' and 'Free Luigi!'

However, counter-protester and outspoken conservative artist Scott LoBaido showed up among supporters with a message of his own.

'F**k Luigi Mangione and his j**off followers,' his sign read. He also carried a faux-electric chair with a skeleton dressed like Luigi, the Mario Bros character.

A day before the hearing, prosecutors formally announced plans to pursue the death penalty, following the suggestion of Attorney General Pamela Bondi.

In an April 1 statement, Bondi described Thompson's execution as 'a premeditated, cold-blooded assassination that shocked America.'

'After careful consideration, I have directed federal prosecutors to seek the death penalty in this case as we carry out President Trumps agenda to stop violent crime and Make America Safe Again,' she added.

Before he entered a plea for the federal charges, Mangione pleaded not guilty the New York state murder and terror charges.

Prosecutors formally announced plans to pursue the death penalty, following the suggestion of Attorney General Pamela Bondi (pictured: Mangione in court on February 21)

The murder suspect pleaded not guilty to all federal stalking and murder charges brought against him on April 25 in Manhattan federal court (pictured: a courtroom sketch of Mangione from the April 25 hearing)

Brian Thompson (pictured), 50, was shot to death in New York City in December last year

Pennsylvania has also took up a case against him, accusing him of firearm and forgery charges stemming for fake IDs and firearms allegedly found on his when he was arrested in Altoona.

Mangione did not enter a plea for the Pennsylvania charges before he was extradited to New York.

His lawyers are trying to get them dismissed, claiming he was illegally stopped and searched, CNN reported.

Attorneys have also requested the handwritten note taken from Mangione, allegedly containing anti-capitalism ideologies, stop being referred to as a 'manifesto.'

Mangione remains in custody at the 'hellhole' Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, the same prison as disgraced rapper Sean 'Diddy' Combs.

His next court appearance is set for June 26, pertaining to his New York state case. He will reappear in federal court on December 5 for his trial date will be scheduled.
An NHS nurse turned social media food influencer has won almost 25,000 after she was wrongly accused of starting an intimate relationship with a patient.

Jessica Thorpe was suspended for 29 months after the male mental patient claimed she was pregnant with his child, an employment tribunal heard.

During that time, the nurse started to share pictures of food on Instagram, which led to her amassing nearly 60,000 followers and becoming an influencer under the name 'Slice of Jess'.

After finally being invited to return to work, Ms Thorpe resigned in protest over her treatment - accusing the health service of failing to tackle staff 'gossip' about the 'alleged relationship'.

The NHS trust she worked for tried to argue that the 'real reason' for her quitting was so that she could continue to pursue her career online which was earning her almost 20,000 a year.

Now, an employment judge has concluded that, while the timing of her resignation was an 'oddity', if the nurse chose to use her time at home to 'explore the potential' for social media activities to generate income - then 'so be it'.

Ms Thorpe's claims of constructive dismissal were upheld and she has now been awarded 24,118 in compensation.

In a tearful video to her 59,000 followers on Instagram, Ms Thorpe said: '5 years to the day that I got sent home suspended. Quite poetic. My shoulders have dropped. My jaw has unclenched. Finally Im free.'

Jessica Thorpe (pictured) started posting food pictures on Instagram under the handle 'Slice of Jess' while serving a suspension over bogus affair claims

Ms Thorpe is pictured in her NHS nurse outfit before she was suspended and later quit

Ms Thorpe celebrated her tribunal victory with an emotional victory, declaring: 'I can finally breathe'

The video, which had ABBA's 'The Winner Takes It All' playing over the top, was captioned: 'After 1,855 days, it's finally over. Case closed. Done. I can finally breathe.'

The employment tribunal, held in Newcastle, heard Ms Thorpe joined the Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne & Wear NHS Foundation Trust in 2016.

In 2020, the nurse was working on Ward Z - a secure facility for males with mental disorders and illnesses who have come into contact with the criminal justice system

On April 27 of that year, Patient X - whose name has been anonymised for legal reasons - alleged he was having an 'inappropriate relationship' with Ms Thorpe and said she was 'pregnant with his child'.

The nurse was suspended just days later.

Employment Judge Simon Loy said a 'series of extensions' to her suspension were added in the period that followed.

The tribunal said in September 2020, during the suspension, Ms Thorpe started a social media profile called 'Slice of Jess'.

It started as an Instagram account where she uploaded pictures of food and, by the time of the hearing, she had accrued more than 50,000 followers.

She also attracted more than 25,000 subscribers to her YouTube channels - and made 580 videos across three years, or roughly three per week.

Ms Thorpe (pictured) was suspended for 29 months after the male mental patient claimed she was pregnant with his child, an employment tribunal heard

Ms Thorpe made more than 500 videos over a three year period for her social media channels

Tax returns presented to the tribunal showed that the nurse's income from Google rose from 4,211.00 in 2021 to 19,222.00 in 2023.

The tribunal heard that during the investigation, Patient X died of a rare reaction to his medication.

A disciplinary hearing eventually took place in July 2021, after 15 months of delays over a variety of issues, including the patient's death.

Ms Thorpe was told the allegation relating to Patient X was not upheld, due to a lack of 'conclusive evidence'.

It was said that there was a 'blurring of boundaries' due to the patient 'responding well' to Ms Thorpe.

Another allegation, relating to accessing the NHS computer system without permission, was upheld and Ms Thorpe said despite receiving the outcome of a warning orally, she was told she would have to wait for written confirmation.

The judge said said: 'It was common ground that the claimant never received any letter confirming the outcome of the disciplinary hearing 2021 before her resignation.'

It was heard that Ms Thorpe was told that she would not be returning to work until the police investigation into Patient X's death and the trust's own serious incident process procedure had been completed.

The trust tried to argue that the reason for Ms Thorpe's resignation was because she wanted to 'pursue her career as a social media influencer'

The judge said this left Ms Thorpe in an 'entirely unsatisfactory position'.

In October 2022, Ms Thorpe was finally sent an email which outlined her return to work - but she resigned the following month.

In her resignation letter, Ms Thorpe said the trust failed to acknowledge a grievance she had raised or address any 'gossip' about the 'alleged relationship' from colleagues.

She sued for unfair constructive dismissal, breach of contract and unlawful deduction of wages, all of which were upheld.

The judge concluded there had been an 'enormous period' in which Ms Thorpe was suspended from work, but the 'real issue' arose from the trust's decision not to allow her back to work after the disciplinary hearing.

The trust tried to argue that the reason for Ms Thorpe's resignation was because she wanted to 'pursue her career as a social media influencer'.

The nurse 'rejected' this assertion, branding it 'fanciful', and said that the 'Slice of Jess' account only started during the suspension as a 'hobby'.

The tribunal accepted that Ms Thorpe's desire to pursue a career as a social media influencer and to work elsewhere were both reasons that were 'influential' on her decision to resign.

The judge said for this reason, the tribunal had 'considerable sympathy' for the trust's position.

'It is after all an oddity of this case that after over two years of calling on the respondent to perform its side of the contract, [Ms Thorpe] resigned when in other contexts the breach might be considered as having been remedied,' the judge said.

'However, the tribunal must apply the applicable legal principles.

'There is no restriction on the innocent party to a repudiatory breach from seeking to earn money from other activities that are not expressly or impliedly prohibited by the contract of employment.

'If the duration of [Ms Thorpe's] suspension gave her an opportunity to explore the potential for social media activities to generate income then so be it.'

The judge said the trust had not 'advanced a case' that her constructive dismissal was 'fair', and so her claims were upheld.

At the hearing to determine her compensation, the panel was told that from her dismissal in November 2022 to last month, Ms Thorpe has made 46,362 from her social media activities after expenses and tax.
A Utah judge broke down in tears as she sentenced a father to life imprisonment for the horrific abuse death of his 12-year-old son.

Shane Jesse Peterson, 47, was sentenced to up to life behind bars following the death of his son Gavin, who died on July 9, 2024.

Gavin died at a Weber County hospital after what authorities described as 'unimaginable suffering.'

The shocking conditions revealed in court documents showed that Gavin was severely malnourished before his death, fed only 'a piece of bread with mustard' and one-third cup of water daily while being locked in an empty room under constant camera surveillance.

When discovered, the boy's body was 'visibly emaciated' with internal organs that had 'shut down completely,' according to the affidavit.

In court on Wednesday, Judge Camille L. Neider of Utah's Second District Court fought back tears as she delivered the maximum possible sentence.

'I agree that you should be given the maximum sentence,' Judge Neider stated. 'I am going to run it consecutive. I also am going to encourage the board to keep you until you die.'

Judge Neider ordered Peterson to serve five years to life in prison for child abuse homicide, a first-degree felony; three terms of 1 to 15 years for aggravated child abuse, a second-degree felony; and one term of zero to 5 years for endangerment of a child, a third-degree felony.

She said it was the first time in 25 years that she got 'teary' in court.

Neider told Peterson: 'You were Gavin's dad. I don't think you deserve that title anymore, but there's nothing that can be done to change it.'

Scott, along with the boy's father and the boy's oldest brother, have been accused of starving the 12-year-old boy to death, subjecting him to years of abuse, including locking him in a room and providing only scraps of food and water

Gavin Peterson, 12, died on July 9. Deputies from the Webster County Sheriff's Office were called to his father's home in West Haven after it was reported that the young boy was 'not breathing' and 'experiencing vomiting' for days on end

In court on Wednesday, Judge Camille L. Neider of Utah's Second District Court fought back tears as she delivered the maximum possible sentence

'You certainly were not his father and you certainly were not his protector.'

'I also find it telling that I am more emotional about this than you are - and I think that there is reason for that.'

Peterson had pleaded guilty in March to five felony charges, including child abuse homicide, three counts of aggravated child abuse, and child endangerment.

When Gavin died last summer, three other family members were subsequently arrested for child abuse homicide within days of his death.

Shocking documents later released by the Utah Division of Child and Family Services revealed several years of investigation into the Peterson family.

The documents stated that Gavin had suffered 'severe and chronic physical abuse and severe and chronic physical neglect.'

In April, Gavin's stepmother broke down in tears as she plead guilty to her role in starving her 12-year-old stepson to death.

Nichole Lea Scott, 51, of West Haven, Utah, admitted to a heart-wrenching array of crimes after her actions led to the emaciated death of Gavin.

Scott, along with the boy's father and the boy's oldest brother Tyler Peterson, 22, are accused of starving the child to death and subjecting him to years of abuse, including locking him in a room and providing only scraps of food and water.

'When talking about feeding the child victim, the three suspects talk about only giving the child one-third of a cup of water, only giving him a piece of bread and mustard, or not feeding him food at all,' charging documents obtained by East Idaho News state.

'All of this messaging and evidence revealed a prolonged pattern of abuse over the course of several years.'

The boy's father, stepmother and older brother were all arrested in connection with his horrific death, which was brought on by 'a prolonged pattern of abuse over several years'

The 'evil' stepmother was weeping and emotional as she tearfully pleaded guilty to murder, three counts of intentional aggravated child abuse, two counts of obstruction of justice, child endangerment and possession of a controlled substance

While in Ogden's 2nd District Court on Monday, the stepmother was seen weeping and emotional as she tearfully pleaded guilty to murder, three counts of intentional aggravated child abuse, two counts of obstruction of justice, child endangerment and possession of a controlled substance.

Shane and Tyler both pleaded guilty to child abuse homicide and other child abuse charges on March 20.

Part of the guilty pleas for both men involved admitting to the factual basis of the charges.

They both testified that investigator statements were true and that Gavin was subjected to a 'prolonged pattern of abuse over the course of several years.'

Deputies from the Webster County Sheriff's Office were called to his father's home in West Haven on July 9 after reports that the young boy was 'not breathing' and 'experiencing vomiting' for days on end.

Officers and paramedics attempted to resuscitate Gavin who was found on the bathroom floor. He was then taken to the hospital, where he later died, police said.

His father, stepmother and older brother were all arrested in connection to the boy's horrific death, which the court heard was brought on by 'a prolonged pattern of abuse over the course of several years.'

Once Gavin was taken to the hospital doctors found that his body 'showed malnutrition to the point the child's internal organs had shut down completely,' according to the affidavit

Sickening surveillance footage and text messages between the three revealed Gavin's final days, where he was only fed a piece of bread with mustard, one-third of a cup of water, and was not allowed to use the bathroom, according to the affidavit.

The deputy noted that the bathroom floor was 'wet and the child's skin was cold to the touch,' the affidavit said.

'Nichole and Shane reported that the child had been ill for several days, experiencing vomiting and seizures, but was not taken to a doctor. On the day of the incident, Nichole found the child in his bedroom, covered in vomit, and assisted him into the shower.'

Once Gavin was taken to the hospital, doctors found that his body 'showed malnutrition to the point the child's internal organs had shut down completely'.

'The child's body was visibly emaciated,' according to the affidavit.

Upon further investigation into the child's death, detectives discovered text messages between Tyler and Shane where they discussed the condition of Gavin.

In the messages, Tyler told his father that Gavin was not breathing, asking what he should do, the affidavit said.

Investigators also found home surveillance footage that showed Tyler making three trips to the shed in the backyard around the same time they called 911.

Nichole Lea Scott, 51, of West Haven, Utah, admitted on Monday to a chilling array of crimes after her actions led to the emaciated death of her stepson Gavin Peterson in July 2024

Screenshots of surveillance footage that monitored Gavin's room were also uncovered on Nichole's phone that showed the horrendous conditions the boy was living in. Pictured: The Peterson family home in West Haven, Utah

'During two of these trips, Tyler appeared to be carrying items to the shed. A search of the property uncovered small surveillance cameras in the shed Tyler entered,' the affidavit said.

Screenshots of surveillance footage that monitored Gavin's room were also uncovered on Nichole's phone that showed the horrendous conditions the boy was living in.

'In most of the screenshots, the child is only wearing a heavily saturated diaper. The child can be seen curling up on the carpet-less floor of the room, which lacked bedding or blankets.

'Several screenshots also showed sores on the child's back. The room appeared to have multiple cameras, as the infrared lights from other devices were visible in the screenshots.

'The photo also showed the door handle with a locking mechanism positioned on the outside of the room,' the arrest report said.

After searching through the suspects' phones, detectives found text messages where they discussed if Gavin was allowed to 'use the bathroom' or 'be given any food.'

Their conversations also included talk about 'hitting or beating' Gavin, including 'using a pinata stick to do so,' the report said.

Scott, along with the boy's father and the boy's oldest brother, have been accused of starving the 12-year-old boy to death, subjecting him to years of abuse, including locking him in a room and providing only scraps of food and water

'They also talk about how the door to the child's bedroom is locked and how he has to knock on his door in order to leave.

'When talking about feeding the child victim, the three suspects talk about only giving the child one-third of a cup of water, only giving him a piece of bread and mustard, or not feeding him food at all.

'All of this messaging and evidence revealed a prolonged pattern of abuse over the course of several years,' the affidavit said.
US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has made yet another high-profile arrest of an MS-13 gang member in Maryland, just months after the deportation of El Salvador man Kilmar Abrego Garcia.

Another illegal immigrant from El Salvador, Joel Armando Mejia-Benitez, was apprehended with 'validated' membership to the notorious gang and no visa 'approved or pending' to be in the United States, according to a statement from the Department of Homeland Security.

The latest arrest comes despite Democratic establishment officials insisting deported gang members are simply 'Maryland men' rather than criminal illegal immigrants, with junior Senator Chris Van Hollen recently visiting Abrego Garcia in the El Salvador's CECOT prison in an attempt to secure his return to the US.

'This criminal illegal gang member and suspected terrorist should have never been released into our country,' DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said of Mejia-Benitez's arrest in a statement to Fox News.

'Thanks to President Trump and Secretary Noem, he is off our streets and will soon be out of the country.'

Mejia-Benitez first entered the US in 2005 before being deported, later reentering the country at an unknown date. He was ultimately arrested for a second time by HSI Baltimore in 2014, according to the department.

However, following his second arrest, he was issued a notice to appear in immigration court but was released back into the community of Silver Spring, where he has remained ever since.

On Monday, ICE agents officially apprehended the 38-year-old man, who was described by the department as an 'MS-13 gang member with an Interpol Red Notice'.

Joel Armando Mejia-Benitez, a 38-year-old 'validated MS-13 gang member' from El Salvador with no visas 'approved or pending', was apprehended by ICE on Monday

Mejia-Benitez's arrest comes as the Department of Homeland Security marks its 100th day under the leadership of Secretary Noem

Mejia-Benitez first entered the US in 2005 before being deported, later reentering the country at an unknown date. He was ultimately arrested for a second time by HSI Baltimore in 2014, but was released back into Maryland

An Interpol Red Notice, issued by the international legal group, is a request to 'locate and provisionally arrest' an individual.

While it isn't an official 'international arrest warrant', its purpose is to ensure that a suspect is detained for further legal proceedings.

According to Interpol's website, the Red Notice database currently holds more than 6,500 individuals, highlighting its critical role in global justice efforts.

'The brave men and women of ICE protect our families, friends and neighbors by removing public safety and national security threats from our communities,' ICE acting Director Todd M. Lyons said in a statement to Fox News.

'During President Trump's first 100 days, ICE alone has arrested over 65,000 illegal aliens - including 2,288 gang members from Tren de Aragua, MS-13, 18th Street and other gangs,' he added.

'Additionally, 1,329 were accused or convicted of sex offenses, and 498 were accused or convicted of murder.'

Mejia-Benitez's arrest comes as the Department of Homeland Security marks its 100th day under the leadership of Secretary Noem.

In March, the highly publicized arrest and deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia became a major flashpoint in the nation's polarized political system, sparking debate over the aggressiveness of Trump's deportation policies while in office.

According to ICE acting Director Todd M. Lyons, 'during President Trump's first 100 days, ICE alone has arrested over 65,000 illegal aliens - including 2,288 gang members from Tren de Aragua, MS-13, 18th Street and other gangs'

In March, the highly publicized arrest and deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia became a major flashpoint in the nation's polarized political system, sparking debate over the aggressiveness of Trump's deportation policies while in office

The 29-year-old El Salvador man quickly won the sympathy of liberals and Democrats around America after shocking claims revealed he may have been wrongfully sent back to El Salvador by the Trump Administration alongside more than 200 hardened criminals

The 29-year-old man quickly won the sympathy of liberals and Democrats around America after shocking claims revealed he may have been wrongfully sent back to El Salvador alongside more than 200 hardened criminals.

Abrego Garcia's current deportation saga began when he was pulled over by immigration officers on March 12, 2025 and was told his immigration status had changed.

Within days, he was already on a plane back to El Salvador.

He illegally entered the US in 2011. A judge blocked his return to El Salvador in 2019, citing the fact that gangsters were after him, but said he could be deported elsewhere.

In May of 2021, his wife, Jennifer Vasquez Sura, got a restraining order against him, claiming he repeatedly beat her.

In 2022, he was suspected of human trafficking after police conducting a traffic stop found eight men in the back of his car.

In court filings last month, the Trump Administration said he was deported to El Salvador in error.

However, the administration has since doubled down on its initial position that he has ties to MS-13 dating back to at least 2019, when a court document stated he'd been identified by a 'past and proven reliable source' as an 'active member' of the gang.

Last month, Noem doubled down on her hard truth: even if he was brought back to the United States, she'd turn him around and send him straight home

Trump has since issued warnings to judges who have ruled in favor or curbing his aggressive migrant deportation plans , arguing that 'you can't have a trial for all these people'

Nevertheless, the Supreme Court has since ordered the administration to facilitate his return to the US - ultimately igniting a legal battle for his release back on US soil.

In response to an order from US District Judge Paula Xinis demanding the government facilitate Abrego Garcia's return to the United States, Noem said: 'This individual is not under the United States of America's jurisdiction and he is not one of our citizens.

'He is home in his home country. And that's up to that country to decide what to do.'

Abrego Garcia's lawyers have been steadfast in insisting that their client has never been convicted of a crime and has no criminal record.

Last month, Noem doubled down on her hard truth: even if he was brought back to the United States, she'd turn him around and send him straight home.

'He is an El Salvador citizen,' she told CBS News. 'He is home there in his country. If he were to be brought back to the United States of America, we would immediately deport him again.'

Within days he was on a plane to El Salvador and his family recognized him in CECOT from media images which showed off distinctive tattoos on his arm.

Abrego Garcia's family ultimately recognized him from media images in El Salvador's notorious CECOT prison, identifying his distinctive tattoos - markings that President Trump has cited as evidence of alleged ties to MS-13.

The latest arrest comes despite Democratic establishment officials insisting deported gang members are simply 'Maryland men' rather than criminal illegal immigrants, with junior Senator Chris Van Hollen recently visiting Abrego Garcia in the El Salvador's CECOT prison in an attempt to secure his return to the US

Abrego Garcia's family ultimately recognized him from media images in El Salvador's notorious CECOT prison, identifying his distinctive tattoos - markings that President Trump has cited as evidence of alleged ties to MS-13

His case is just one of the most prominent in a growing list of concerns raised by the courts that the Trump administration is rushing deportations at the expense of due process.

'I think what Americans are tired of, is people who want to put their finger to the wind to see what's going on,' Van Hollen said, according to The Guardian.

'I would say that anyone that's not prepared to defend the constitutional rights of one man, when they threaten the constitutional rights of all, doesn't deserve to lead.'

Trump has since issued warnings to judges who have ruled in favor or curbing his aggressive migrant deportation plans, arguing that 'you can't have a trial for all these people'.

He argued that he must remove criminal migrants from the US because it will take '200 years' for everyone to get a fair trial.

'And I hope we get cooperation from the courts, because, you know, we have thousands of people that are ready to go out, and you can't have a trial for all of these people,' Trump said at the White House last month.

'It wasn't meant  the system wasn't meant. And we don't think there's anything that says that,' he said, offering his administration's interpretation of the law.

'Look, we are getting some very bad people, killers, murderers, drug dealers, really bad people, the mentally ill, the mentally insane,' he said.
A New Jersey mayor has tried to get inside a jail he believed was illegally housing migrants to 'free them' as the Trump Administration continues to round up illegals.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, 55, said he was tipped off by a security worker that the Delaney Hall Detention Center was housing migrants for US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Freedom News reported.

'They wouldn't let us in yesterday, so we're here today,' he told reporters outside the jail on Tuesday. 'We're going to get in today.

'It doesn't matter who's inside, I think they may have detainees in there. They're not supposed to be there... ICE doesn't have a long-term lease with these folks, so the jail is completely responsible for hiding behind ICE right now.'

Baraka said the jail has a contract with the city and cannot be housing migrants inside. A spokesperson for the company confirmed to DailyMail.com that migrants have been housed at the facility for a week.

'Delaney Hall houses illegal aliens. It is not a family detention facility, nor does it house minors,' a spokesperson told DailyMail.com.

The building's owners, GEO Group, did not receive permits or a valid certificate of occupancy to house 1,000 migrants a day, The New York Times reported.

A GEO Group employee had chained the front gates shut on Monday and fire officials gave them three citations for code violations, the Times said.

'Theyre keeping us out through the gates and the fences and all this other kind of stuff, but were going to come down here every day and were going to get in one way or the other,' Baraka told the Times.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, 55, said he was tipped off by a security worker that the Delaney Hall Detention Center was housing migrants for US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

Baraka talking to the press on Wednesday as ICE agent stand behind him

A GEO Group employee had chained the front gates shut on Monday and fire officials gave them three citations for code violations

'We want them to follow our rules, follow our laws.'

GEO Group accepted a 15-year $1billion contract with ICE in February, agreeing to hold migrants while they wait for deportation.

Delaney Hall has previously been used as a jail, halfway house, and migrant detention center and is located near the Newark Airport, making it easy to ship migrants back to their native countries.

The building has not been used in over a year and with the renovations on top of it, the City of Newark claimed the occupancy certificate would be invalid, the Times reported.

GEO Group spokesperson, Tricia McLaughlin, told The Times that Baraka is 'more than welcome to enter the facility as long as he follows security protocols like everyone else.'

'He keeps refusing to do so, presumably in an effort to stage press opportunities to help him in his bid for governor,' the spokesperson said.

Another spokesperson, Christopher Ferreira, told the Times Baraka's action was a 'publicity stunt'.

He said it was an 'unfortunate example of a politicized campaign by sanctuary city and open-borders politicians in New Jersey to interfere with the federal governments efforts to arrest, detain and deport dangerous criminal illegal aliens in accordance with established federal law.'

'It doesn't matter who's inside, I think they may have detainees in there. They're not supposed to be there... ICE doesn't have a long-term lease with these folks, so the jail is completely responsible for hiding behind ICE right now,' Baraka (right) said

Many immigration activists joined Baraka outside Delaney Hall on Tuesday to protest the use of the facility and to demand to get inside

A large police presence was seen behind him at the gate on Wednesday

Many immigration activists joined Baraka outside Delaney Hall on Tuesday to protest the use of the facility and to demand access.

Daily Mail reached out to Ras Baraka and ICE for comment.

Since Trump took office in late January, a total of 65,682 illegal immigrants were removed, a Department of Homeland Security official revealed to the Daily Mail.

That is almost all of the 66,463 arrested over that period.

An official said five percent of the arrested individuals have criminal charges or convictions.

That figure includes 498 migrants with murder allegations and 1,329 who were tied to sex offenses. Another 2,288 were suspected gang members.

Daily Mail broke the news that 7,120 illegal migrants are alleged to have participated in benefit fraud schemes, including marriage fraud.

That is according to data compiled by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services, which conducted a screening of over 3,568 social media accounts.

GEO Group accepted a 15-year $1billion contract with ICE in February, agreeing to hold migrants while they wait for deportation (pictured: protesters outside the facility)

Since Trump took office in late January, a total of 65,682 illegal immigrants were removed, a Department of Homeland Security official revealed to the Daily Mail

USCIS spokesman Matthew Tragesser said that Trump is putting a stop to 'disastrous Biden-era 'humanitarian' policies that invited fraud and allowed criminal aliens to legally live and work in our communities.'

He went on to say that USCIS facilitated arrests of 'criminals attempting to gain immigration benefits' and is ensuring that every migrant is being registered in the U.S.

'Aliens, immigration attorneys and non-government organizations take note: the days of exploiting our immigration system are over. Aliens who want to live and work in America need to do it legally or get out.'
Scotland's top prosecutor today paved the way for more 'shooting galleries' to be set up to allow drug addicts to inject heroin and cocaine without fear of arrest.

Lord Advocate Dorothy Bain KC told MPs there was 'no reason' why more consumption rooms could not be created, after a three-year pilot scheme was launched in Glasgow.

The Thistle centre opened in January after the Lord Advocate issued a statement making clear it would not be in the public interest to prosecute those using it for possession of drugs.

Scotland has the highest rate of drugs deaths in Europe, with fatalities rising by 12 per cent in a year to 1,172 drug-related deaths in 2023, of which 246 were in Glasgow.

But the centre has been blamed it for a rise in crime and drugs paraphernalia littering the streets.

Residents of the Calton area of the city said the clinic had led to a growing number of needles left in the streets and an influx of users travelling in from other parts of the city.

Asked if the Thistle's three-year remit could be extended, Ms Bain said that if the situation remained 'compelling, as it is at the moment' then this could be considered.

Asked by committee chair Patricia Ferguson if she would consider similar requests for such facilities to be set up by other local authorities, she replied: 'Any other proposal of the type we got in this case would be considered in the same way.'

Lord Advocate Dorothy Bain KC told MPs there was 'no reason' why more consumption rooms could not be created, after a three-year pilot scheme was launched in Glasgow.

The Thistle centre opened in January after the Lord Advocate issued a statement making clear it would not be in the public interest to prosecute those using it for possession of drugs.

Asked by committee chair Patricia Ferguson if she would consider similar requests for such facilities to be set up by other local authorities, she replied: 'Any other proposal of the type we got in this case would be considered in the same way.'

However, she said: 'I haven't received any other proposals.'

In March it was revealed there had been more than 1,000 visits to the Thistle by addicts.

The centre had seen 17 overdoses since it opened, according to service manager Lynn Macdonald, some of which she said would have resulted in death had staff not stepped in.

The centre was established in a bid to stem the number of drug deaths in Scotland by offering a safe place to inject as well as referring users to support services.

However, Ms Macdonald said none of the users have asked for a rehab referral.

Speaking in London today, Ms Bain said: 'I think I would have to be guided by the experts in public health as to whether or not they considered it to be a success.

'I am not a doctor, I am not an expert on drug use, or drug disease. What I would do is take into account what the experts were reporting about the impact of the facility.'

She added that there would be a 'rigorous evaluation' of the Thistle centre  which is the first such facility of its kind in the UK.

The Lord Advocate told the MPs that the statement of prosecution policy for the Thistle had been made 'on the basis of expert, factual evidence and statistical features of drug deaths in Scotland'.

She added that the area where the centre is based is one where there were 'particular issues around open drug use', adding that this had an impact on both the local community and businesses in the area.

Ms Bain said: 'It was a focused area in Glasgow where it seemed to be a very dense problem.'

Adding that 'all these features led into the ultimate decision that was made', the Lord Advocate continued: 'There would be no reason why we couldn't make the same sort of assessment in relation to another such facility, so long as it was underpinned by the very strong evidence base we were given in order to make the decision for the Thistle centre.'

In March, Allan Casey, Glagsow City Councils' addiction services convener, told the committee there is a need for more facilities like the Thistle in both Scotland and across the UK.

The safer consumption room was only established after a lengthy campaign, with Mr Casey saying to the MPs: 'We have managed to do it in Glasgow but we know safe consumption rooms are needed, we need more of them in Scotland and across the UK as well.'
This is the shocking moment a wild hippo knocks down a holidaymaker after she ignores a man's warning not to approach it.

Footage shows the enraged beast charging at the woman before using its head to ram her face-first to the ground as bystanders watch on in horror.

The person behind the camera can be heard shouting, 'he's going to charge' and telling a child 'this is what you call an idiot' as the woman moves closer to the animal.

'She's not listening,' the child responds as the rotund creature barrels towards her, slamming her into the grass and fleeing the scene in St Lucia on Tuesday night.

The cameraman shouts, 'you're stupid' as the stunned woman gets to her feet and staggers away, leaning on a man for support.

The video, posted on the Facebook page 'St Lucia News' said there were 'warnings posted all over town' but that 'people still take stupid risks when approaching the hippos'.

Another Facebook page, Unofficial: Into the Wild, added: 'Visitors are told by lodge, guesthouse owners, and businesses to stay far back from the hippos.

'But some people just don't listen. They are very lucky they weren't seriously hurt or killed. They have now made a hippo potentially more aggressive to humans by their foolish behavior. Stay back people.'

This is the shocking moment a wild hippo knocks down a holidaymaker after she ignores a man's warning not to approach it. Footage shows the enraged beast charging at the woman before using its head to ram her face-first to the ground as bystanders watch on in horror

The person behind the camera can be heard shouting 'he's going to charge' and telling a child 'this is what you call an idiot' as the woman moves closer to the animal. 'She's not listening', the child responds as the rotund creature barrels towards the woman, slamming her into the grass and fleeing the scene in St Lucia on Tuesday night



The cameraman shouts, 'You're stupid' as the stunned woman gets to her feet and staggers away, leaning on a man for support

The video, which was posted on the Facebook page 'St Lucia News' said there were 'warnings posted all over town' but that 'people still take stupid risks when approaching the hippos'.

According to local media, the tourists involved were ordered out of St Lucia, and accommodation establishments advised them not to take future bookings from them.

'They were given an hour to vacate town or face law enforcement proceedings,' reported the Zululand Observer.

According to BBC Science Focus Magazine, hippos kill around 500 people each year.

Last year Lisa Manders, 70, died after being attacked by one of the animals in Zambia while on a dream trip with her husband Craig.

The mother-of-three suffered 'catastrophic injuries' and died moments after the attack, according to a lawsuit her grieving husband has now filed against African Portfolio, the Connecticut-based company that organized the trip.

'Had we understood the dangers posed by the hippopotamus, we never would have agreed to be in such close contact while on foot,' Craig said in a statement.

'The idea that we were unwittingly exposed to such an extreme danger, a danger made even worse by our tour guides leaving Lisa alone on foot with nothing between her and such a deadly animal, is nothing short of astonishing.'

It comes after a hippopotamus was caught on camera dragging a child to his death in Lake Victoria as screaming crowds desperately pelted the animal with rocks in 2020.

The little boy had been playing by the shore in Mbita, Kenya, as adults washed clothes nearby.

Footage shows the child submerged in the murky water as residents helplessly cried out.

The animal eventually released the boy but he died from his injuries.
Uber employees revolted after the company's CEO announced a series of policy changes many American workers would consider more than generous.

Chief among the changes announced at a company-wide meeting last week was a new return-to-office mandate requiring staff to be in the office at least three days a week starting in June, a tweak to the current two-day mandate.

Uber also announced a revision to its sabbatical policy, saying that employees will be eligible for a month of paid leave after eights years of service, rather than the former five years.

Employee backlash was immediate, with frustration flooding internal forums - leading a top executive to condemn some comments as 'disrespectful.'

One forum 'essentially has been invaded by questions about the changes we've made,' CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said at the April 29 all-hands meeting, adding that employee concerns were eventually consolidated.

Many employees called the new policy tone-deaf, given Uber's recent financial success and the effectiveness of remote work over the past few years.

Khosrowshahi defended the decisions, saying they were not taken lightly but necessary for collaboration, innovation and long-term productivity.

'It's hardly a surprise that not everyone was thrilled about changes to remote work and sabbatical policies,' Uber told CNBC. 'But the job of leadership is to do what's in the best interest of our customers and shareholders.'

Uber employees are in revolt after the company's CEO, Dara Khosrowshahi, announced a series of policy changes many US workers would consider more than generous. Pictured: A car drives by Uber headquarters in San Francisco, California

Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi defended the decisions, saying they were 'not taken lightly' but necessary for collaboration, innovation and long-term productivity

Khosrowshahi emphasized the importance of maintaining a connection to the physical world.

'Our business also exists in the real world,' Uber Chief People Officer Nikki Krishnamurthy added, 'on the streets of thousands of cities, and it's important we stay connected to the places we serve.'

Employees must now be present on designated 'anchor days' - Tuesdays and Thursdays - and compliance will be monitored at both the team and individual levels, Krishnamurthy said.

Employees voiced concerns about overcrowding at offices, citing limited meeting rooms and insufficient workspace on 'anchor days.'

'It's a challenge every anchor day to even find a place to sit with your team,' one worker commented.

To address those issues, Krishnamurthy announced that Uber is expanding its San Francisco and Seattle offices by 700,000 square feet, with new meeting rooms and cafeterias under construction through 2026.

The update to the sabbatical policy similarly drew groans from staffers.

'How is five years of service not a tenured employee? Especially when burnout is rampant in the org,' one highly-rated employee commented, adding they had already paid for a sabbatical trip.

Employee backlash was immediate as many employees called the new policy 'tone-deaf,' especially given Uber's recent financial success and the effectiveness of remote work over the past few years

In addition to frustration over the return-to-work policy, employees voiced concerns about overcrowding, citing limited meeting rooms and insufficient workspace. Pictured: Uber Technologies Inc. headquarters in the Mission Bay neighborhood of San Francisco, California

'This isn't "doing the right thing" for your employees,' another worker reportedly wrote, according to the New York Post.

Khosrowshahi was blunt in addressing those criticisms.

'If you're here for a sabbatical and this change causes you to change your mind, it is what it is,' he said at the meeting.

'I'm sorry about that. The reason we want you to be here is the impact on the company. The learning here. We recognize some of these changes are going to be unpopular with folks. This is a risk we decided to take.'

Uber's Chief People Officer Nikki Krishnamurthy

Though the benefit still exists, the change has fueled speculation that Uber may be trying to push out long-tenured workers.

'It has nothing to do in terms of a need to drive attrition or layoffs,' Khosrowshahi responded when asked whether the move was a covert strategy to prompt voluntary exits. 'None of that is planned. The business is operating really, really well. But listen, good isn't good enough for us. We have to be great as a company.'

After the meeting, Krishnamurthy issued a memo condemning some of the employee remarks made during the session, claiming they 'crossed the line into unprofessional and disrespectful.'

'That's not OK, and we will be speaking with the employees who made them,' she wrote.

'Through good times and bad, we are open with each other. Yet when we see behavior like this, it makes it harder to continue being open in the same way.'

Uber's decisions reflect a broader shift in the tech industry, where several major firms have scaled back remote work.

Companies including Amazon, Dell, JPMorgan Chase, IBM and Google have all pushed for a return to in-person work, citing the value of face-to-face collaboration.

Google recently warned employees they could lose their jobs if they fail to comply with its three-day office attendance requirement, TheStreet.com reported.
The Russian national who tried to flee from police on a stolen yacht was granted asylum in the United States under the Biden administration, authorities have revealed.

Nikolai Vilkov was arrested Monday in Florida's Hobe Sound. The 29-year-old was seen cowering at the bow of the $2 million yacht as three rifle-bearing SWAT members with the Martin County Sheriff's Office approached him.

The moment, right out of an action movie, came after a prolonged boat chase with police that ended with them catching up to Vilkov.

Officers threw tear gas onto the vessel, shouted commands for Vilkov to come out. Eventually the gas forced him out on to the deck so he could be put in cuffs, WPBF reported.

As authorities try to piece together Vilkov's life story, many things remain unclear, such as how he returned the US after it was shown that he left the country in April 2024 on a flight back to Russia.

What is clear is that Vilkov, who is now suspected to be involved in some sort of smuggling operation, originally entered the US somewhere along the Texas-Mexico border on December 13, 2022.

It is not known what reason he gave to seek asylum, but this was a time when a record number of migrants were surging to the southern border.

US Customs and Border Protection reported a staggering 179,253 encounters in December 2022, whereas in March 2025, that number dropped to 11,000.

Pictured: A SWAT team converges on a cowering Nikolai Vilkov after police encircled him on the water and threw tear gas onto the stolen $2 million yacht

Pictured: Vilkov, 29, is walked off the ship by officers after an extended boat chase that almost led to him crashing into a draw bridge that crosses over the Hobe Sound

In a press conference on Tuesday Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek said Vilkov and his family flew from Turkey to Mexico in November 2022.

A month later, Vilkov, along with his wife and child, entered the country.

Budensiek admitted that his office knows little about his activities after that, though he did say Vilkov had a driver's license listing an address in Charlotte, North Carolina.

On April 30, 2024, the family of three flew back to Russia. It is not clear how or when he made it back to Jupiter, Florida, where police said he was spotted at 1am on Monday parking a Tesla.

Shortly after that at around 2:10am, Jupiter police allege that Vilkov stole a towboat from a company located just north of West Palm Beach.

The towboat, not the same boat as the 68-foot yacht he allegedly swiped later that day, got stuck on a sandbar near the Jupiter inlet, authorities said.

Jupiter police made contact with Vilkov and began questioning him, but they did not have enough evidence at the time to connect him to the stolen towboat.

He walked free and there were no reported sightings of him from 3am until 1pm, when cops say he was seen talking with people at Tiki 52 Bar & Grill near Blowing Rocks Marina.

The Blowing Rocks Marina (pictured) in the town of Jupiter is where the yacht was stolen from on Monday afternoon

Pictured: A police boat is seen speeding down the Indian River to try to catch the yacht

Pictured: At some point, at least two police boats were able to catch up with the three-deck, 68-foot yacht

Witnesses told police they saw Vilkov getting on and off a yacht from 1pm to 3:55pm.

The dockmaster at Blowing Rocks Marina called 911 at 3:55pm to report the stolen yacht and inform police the suspect was heading north.

Budensiek explained that authorities made contact with the yacht's owner, who said the boat was not supposed to be out at sea.

That is when officers with the Martin County Sheriff's Office, Florida Fish & Wildlife and the Jupiter Island Police Department got into boats and began chasing down the yacht.

'They locked onto the boat, realized that they were at extreme tactical disadvantage. We're talking about a three-story, 68-foot yacht, and our vessels with one or two marine officers were not suited to safely take those individuals into custody,' Budensiek said at the press conference.

The chase lasted for more than six miles and almost came to a horrific end at the Hobe Sound Bridge.

Police ordered the draw bridge closed so Vilkov could not pass and would be boxed in. But when he got close to hitting it, they were forced to open it, allowing the pursuit to continue.

Eventually, Vilkov got stuck in shallow water and was unable to maneuver the large ship, allowing officers to pounce.

Pictured: Using their much smaller boats, police were able to push the yacht further and further off the river bank

Eventually, the yacht was pushed up against the mangrove trees and was left completely immobile. Vilkov is seen on the bow with his hands up

Pictured: Police and a SWAT team surrounded the giant yacht and took Vilkov into custody

'They came up with a plan of beaching the suspect vessel, the stolen vessel, which they did, and that consisted of multiple boats, smaller boats, powering heavily against the side of the stolen vessel and pushing it into the mangroves where it was disabled,' Budensiek said.

Once the yacht was paralyzed, SWAT teams converged, deployed tear gas and got Vilkov to walk out on to the front deck.

'Gas was deployed, and he eventually did come out and work his way to the front deck where SWAT operators took him into custody,' Budensiek said.

Things only got stranger once they arrested Vilkov, who claimed to not speak much English, despite witnesses saying they conversed with him just fine that day.

'We do know that he interacted with Jupiter police earlier in the day. We know he interacted with people in the docks, so we don't really believe him in that regard,' Budensiek said.

Police ultimately requested assistance from the FBI and Department of Homeland Security. DHS provided a translator so Vilkov could communicate in Russian.

'During the interview, our suspect was caught in a multitude of lies. He, in our opinion, tried to feign that he was insane for a bit, and then he could answer questions that were more complex,' Budensiek said.

It remains unclear why Vilkov allegedly stole the towboat or the yacht. He admitted to stealing the yacht in a police interview but offered no motive.

With no real answers because of Vilkov's lack of cooperation, police believe he might be part of a smuggling operation

Vilkov is being held without bond in jail on charges of grand theft of a motor vehicle, aggravated fleeing and eluding, and resisting arrest without violence

With no real answers, Budensiek suggested that Vilkov could be part of a smuggling operation while also stressing that it was 'a theory only.'

'What we see here in South Florida is smuggling ventures. We know right now that the Texas border is locked down tight, the Mexican border is locked down tight, and we are expecting an influx of immigrant landings here in Florida,' he said.

Vilkov was headed toward the St Lucie Inlet, approximately 14 miles away from where the yacht had originally been docked.

'A theory, not necessarily a true theory, but a theory is this vessel was being stolen and moved to the Bahamas for a smuggling venture, but we have not been able to verify that,' the sheriff added, stating that he has personally seen boats stolen in Florida end up as far away as the Bahamas.

Vilkov is being held without bond in jail on charges of grand theft of a motor vehicle, aggravated fleeing and eluding, and resisting arrest without violence.

More charges are expected to be heaped on by Jupiter police in relation to his alleged theft of the towboat.

Vilkov has no prior convictions in the US, but police stressed that they do not yet know if he has a criminal history in other countries.

An immigration detainer has been filed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which means Vilkov will be deported back to Russia as soon as he is finished with the criminal justice process in Martin County, regardless of whether that results in him being acquitted or serving a prison sentence.

DailyMail.com has approached Homeland Security, ICE and the Martin County Sheriff's office for any further information related to the ongoing investigation.
The British founder of a bomb disposal charity is believed to have been killed while clearing mines in Ukraine.

Chris Garrett was among three people said to have been critically injured in an incident near Izyum, Kharkiv Oblast on Tuesday.

He was reportedly wounded while trying to clear minefields, according to The Sun.

Shaun Pinner, a former British soldier and Ukraine war prisoner, said today that Mr Garrett and another individual, who was not named, had 'sadly passed away'.

'I can confirm that Chris was among those who died,' he wrote on X today. 'Our thoughts and prayers are with the families affected.'

Mr Garrett was a British volunteer from the Isle of Man, working in Ukraine to clear landmines from the war-torn country.

He was the founder of Prevail, a charity providing training to others in how to safely remove undetonated explosives.

Nearly a third of Ukraine is estimated to have been 'contaminated' by explosive ordnance.

Charities warn that landmines pose an 'ever-present danger' to civilian communities, with 'children particularly at risk'.

Chris Garrett was said to have died after being injured while clearing mines in Ukraine

Mr Garrett was the founder of a charity working tirelessly to remove landmines in Ukraine

Earlier this year, Mr Garrett was sentenced to 14 and a half years in jail by a Russian proxy court in Donetsk.

He was convicted of terrorism charges in his absence by a court under Russian control, while using his skills as a bomb disposal expert to defuse and remove materiel left behind by Russian troops.

'The charges are ridiculous,' he said at the time, as reported by ITV.

'I mean, charged for terrorism by volunteering, or at times, being under contract by the Ukrainian armed forces.'

Mr Garrett was working in Ukraine to clear landmines years before the full Russian invasion in February 2022.

In 2016, two years after the illegal annexation of Crimea, Mr Garrett said that he was clearing landmines with a volunteer battalion as part of the Ukrainian National Guard.

He returned to Ukraine to help in landmine clearance four days after Russia began its invasion in 2022.

He was among the first into the towns of Bucha and Irpin, and on hand to assist after the defiant last stand at Hostomel airport outside Kyiv, an inflection point in the early days of the conflict as Ukraine denied Russia its advance on the capital.

Mr Garrett told The Sun that his job would 'be about preserving life, not taking it'.

Radio Free Europe reported that Mr Garrett had worked as a tree surgeon before briefly joining the British Army as a teenager.

He told the outlet he had gained much of his knowledge of explosives after he began clearing landmines in Myanmar in 2014.

Tributes poured in for Mr Garrett with the news of his death.

One X user wrote: 'He and the team were very courageous and brave. Their heroic legacy of brave actions and sacrifice will live on forever.'

Another reflected: 'I remember talking to the guy on here just after the war started I remember thinking then this guy and team are doing amazing things for Ukrainians - saddened by this loss but at least there's a legacy born from the team that'll always be remembered.'

An anti-personnel frag cluster munition, according to Mr Garrett. The Hero British volunteer shared pictures of his work last week. His charity, Prevail, worked to clear landmines, train more volunteers and offer paramedic assistance to teams in Ukraine

Shaun Pinner, who wrote of Mr Garrett's tragic passing on X, was a prisoner of war in Ukraine, captured by Russian forces in 2022.

Mr Pinner signed up to be a contracted soldier in Ukraine's military in 2018, rising through the ranks after serving with the British Army for nine years.

He was captured by Russian forces during the siege of Mariupol in April 2022.

Mr Pinner said he was brutally beaten, electrocuted and starved by his captors over five months in captivity - treatment he said infringed his human rights and entitled him to compensation.

A Kyiv court ruled last April that he had been inhumanely treated and that the Russian Federation must compensate him accordingly.

An FCDO Spokesperson said: 'We are in contact with the local authorities following the death of a British national in Ukraine.'
A Georgia mother who went on camera to detail a Walmart shopper's alleged abduction of her child has now fallen silent as doubts grow over her story.

Caroline Miller, 26, went on a media tour last month after alleging 57-year-old Mahendra Patel tried to kidnap her infant child in the aisles of a Walmart store in Acworth, Georgia in March.

Patel then spent months in jail after he was arrested for the alleged child abduction.

He was freed Tuesday as a judge set his bond at $10,000 but still faces charges including assault and battery and attempt to commit kidnapping.

In previous media appearances, Miller claimed that she and Patel were in a 'tug of war' over her two-year-old child in the Walmart.

However, footage released by Patel's attorneys disputed this claim as they insisted it shows Patel calmly asking Miller where the Tylenol was, before reaching down to stop her child falling from a motorized shopping cart she was on.

Patel's attorneys maintain that he was only trying to stop the child falling, with the footage also appearing to show another man reached down to help the infant.

In his first remarks since being released, Patel told reporters on the courthouse steps that he was overjoyed to finally be out of custody after almost two months behind bars.

'Im a positive guy, so you got to take it one day at a time. Lot of ups and downs,' he said. 'But I knew we had a team outside helping me. One day well see the light, and then we see today.'

But while Patel was elated to speak with the media, Miller has since gone silent after her previous appearances, and refused to attend his hearing on Tuesday as a family member told CNN she is declining to comment further.

Caroline Miller, 26, a Georgia woman who accused an elderly Walmart shopper of attempting to abduct her child is now refusing to speak out as the public casts doubt on her allegations

Mahendra Patel, 57, was freed from custody on Tuesday after bombshell footage disputed his accuser's claims that he tried to kidnap her child from Walmart

Patel said he was overjoyed to be released this week, and said he was 'taking it one day at a time' as he still faces serious criminal charges over the alleged kidnapping attempt

When he left the courthouse on Tuesday, Patel said he was excited to get back to his family despite still facing serious criminal charges.

He said he was not focused on that, and was instead looking forward to having a home cooked meal with his loved ones.

'Im picky about food, but I told my daughter and wife, I said, I dont care. Better than what I got over there,' he said.

In his bond hearing, Patel's attorney Ashleigh Merchant told a judge that when he reached out to grab Miller's child, he was 'acting like a father.'

She pointed to a litany of supporters Patel had in the courtroom who attested to his character, and a loud cheer was heard as the judge ruled that the father would be released on bond.

A family friend previously told DailyMail.com that they 'automatically' knew there 'had to have been a mistake' when they saw the news of his arrest, and said he has been maligned through no fault of his own.

'There's just like absolutely no way like he would ever do something like that,' they said.

The friend also blasted Miller for the media tour she went on after accusing Patel, questioning: 'How many interviews can this person do?'

On March 18, footage showed Patel approached Miller in the Walmart in Acworth, Georgia, to ask if she knew where the Tylenol was. He briefly stopped her child from falling from a motorized scooter, but it did not show any kind of struggle that Miller described

After encountering Patel, Miller spoke with another man in Walmart (above), and made no apparent attempt to alert others to the 'attempted kidnapping'

Miller had made a number of media appearances about what she insists was an attempted kidnapping, with Patel's loved ones questioning: 'How many interviews can this person do?'

Patel had remained behind bars for months following his arrest before he was released this week, and told reporters that he was looking forward to a home cooked meal with his family

It comes as Patel's attorneys showed footage of his interaction with Miller in court on Tuesday, which showed Patel walking up to Miller as she drove her motorized shopping cart with her son and four-year-old daughter.

It is unclear why Miller was using the cart, as she is able to walk.

After pointing him toward the Tylenol, Miller then spoke with another shopper and was seen smiling and laughing with them, moments after she alleged that she fought to save her child from a kidnapping.

The other patron also helped Miller's children as they fell from her mobility scooter - which she mother was using despite not being disabled - just as Patel said he had done.

The footage showed no such struggle that Miller had described, and even showed Patel walking back past her and appearing to show her the Tylenol that he eventually found as he left the store.

Miller reported Patel to a Walmart employee five minutes after the alleged snatching attempt, but did not call the police until later.

In court on Tuesday, Marchant said a Walmart staffer found it strange that Miller did not scream or call for help during the alleged kidnapping attempt, and initially appeared reluctant to call police.

Caroline Miller, 26, claims Patel tried to snatch her two-year-old son from her lap in the aisle of their local Walmart in Acton, Georgia in March

Patel's lawyer pointed out that Miller has previously been involved in litigation against companies. In 2021 she filed a lawsuit against Lyft saying she had been raped by a driver. The case is ongoing

Patel insists he's been wrongfully accused as his loved ones say they instantly knew there was 'some kind of mistake' when he was arrested

Despite the video footage and his claims, the Acworth Police Department told DailyMail.com before Patel was released that it was standing by the arrest, saying the 'video released by the attorney does not show the entire incident.'

'It seems to have been edited... it's not the video we have,' the department said, but declined to share their footage.

'I have no idea if they showed the video or not [to the grand jury]. But if you see the entire video, it's very clear what's happening. I mean, there's really no mistaking it,' Patel's lawyer Merchant said.

When asked why Miller would make up such horrific claims against an innocent name, Patel's lawyer pointed out that Miller has previously been involved in litigation against companies.

In 2021 she filed a lawsuit against Lyft saying she had been raped by a driver. The lawsuit is ongoing.

Meanwhile, a change.org petition is shining a light on Patel's version of events, and people are leaving comments expressing support for the father.
A US Army Blackhawk pilot was found dead on a riverbank near his military base in Honduras.

The body of 1st Lt. Marciano Parisano, 25, was discovered in the Chiquito River in Comayagua on Saturday, about five miles from where he was stationed at Soto Cano Air Base, the Honduran National Police said.

Police located Parisano's body floating in the river moments after a resident reported a fire.

Authorities canvassed the area and recovered his cell phone, which had been damaged.

National Police investigators, who are working with the United States Army Criminal Investigation Division, have ruled out robbery as a motive and identified multiple suspects, but did not release their names, according to La Prensa newspaper.

No arrests had been reported as of Wednesday.

Parisano, of Cibolo, Texas, was away from the base on a liberty pass at the time, according to the U.S. Embassy.

'It is with deep sorrow and great sadness that we mourn the passing of Lieutenant Marciano Parisano,' U.S. Army Colonel Daniel Alder, Joint Task Force-Bravo Soto Cano commander, said in a statement.

The body of Lt. Marciano Parisano, 25, was discovered on the Chiquito River in Comatagua, Honduras on Saturday, about five miles from where he was stationed at Soto Cano Air Base

Honduran authorities have identified the suspects involved in the death of U.S. Army 1st Lt. Marciano Parisano, but have not made any arrests

'He served our unit and the mission at Soto Cano Air Base with honor, pride, and courage.

'He will be deeply missed by all of us who had the privilege of knowing him and serving alongside him,' Alder added.

'The command team extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones.

'We share their grief at this difficult time. The loss of a soldier is always an irreparable tragedy.'

Parisano graduated from United States Military Academy West Point in May 2023 and then trained as a pilot at Alabama's Fort Novosel.

He served as a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter pilot with the 1st Battalion, 228 Aviation Regiment, according to the Army.

Parisano was also assigned to Joint Task Force-Bravo, a unit that operated out of Soto Cano Air Base and worked with Honduran law enforcement agencies to battle counter organized crime, drug trafficking and other threats.

Parisano was honored with the German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge, National Defense Service Medal, Air Assault Badge, Army Service Ribbon and the Army Aviation 'wings' in his short military career.

U.S. Army 1st Lt. Marciano Parisano was engaged to Alley Singley in April

U.S. Army solder Marciano Parisano, of Cibolo, Texas, was found dead in the Chiquito River in Comayagua, a city in west-central Honduras, on Saturday

The body of U.S. Army soldier Marciano Parisano was found floating in the Chiquito River

News of the young soldier's death stunned his friends and family, as well as his fiancee, Alley Singley, to whom he got engaged on April 19.

'Marco, my love, There are no words to describe the immense love I feel for you and the joy I felt committing to being your wife,' Singley wrote in a social media post.

'Tragically, that opportunity was taken from you far too soon.

'The chance to grow old with you is now just a dream, but I'll take you with me in everything I do.'

According to Singley's post, Parisano taught at Sunday school classes at his local church.

'My heart is broken, but I have peace knowing that you are worshipping with our Father in Heaven,' she wrote. 'You are seated at Jesus' feet now and forever.'
The family of a man who plunged to his death from a Soho rooftop on the Bank Holiday weekend have said their 'world is destroyed'.

Ryley Harbord plummeted from the roof of a residential property on Brewer Street, one the busy streets of Soho filled with clubs and bars, at around 2am on Saturday.

The 22-year-old, who was wearing a long sleeve top with a black gilet over the top, had earlier been pictured sitting at a table in a bar.

In another photo released by the Met Police, he is seen speaking to a security guard on the pavement.

Police have launched an urgent probe into his death, which is being treated as unexpected.

Detectives are appealing for anyone who saw or spoke to Ryley on Friday night to come forward, particularly those who may have come into contact with him between 7pm and 2am on Saturday.

Officers were alerted to the tragedy at 2.02am on Saturday morning, but Ryley tragically died at the scene.

In a heartbreaking tribute, a family member wrote on Facebook: 'My world is destroyed. He is my extension, Ryley you are my world, how can I breathe without you breathing, how can I face the world without you in it?

Ryley Harbord plummeted from the roof of a residential property on Brewer Street, one the busy streets of Soho filled with clubs and bars, at around 2am on Saturday

Ryley was pictured speaking to a bouncer in Soho on the Bank Holiday Weekend

He was pictured in a bar on the evening of Friday, May 7, before his death in the early hours of Saturday morning

'The pain is unbearable, please, I cant do this without you.'

Sharing a collage of photos of them together, she added: 'My baby boy, you always did have a way of causing me the most amount of anxiety and now you have topped it by leaving me on this godforsaken earth to do life without you.

'I thought you were invincible. I cant imagine doing every day without you in it. I cant sleep. I cant breathe. My very soul is broken. I love you baby boy.'

Tributes have poured in below, including one which said: 'Ryley was one of a kind. Yes, he had his wild, crazy moments, but that was part of what made him so special. He was a genuinely kind, loving young man.'

Detective Chief Inspector Anne Linton, who is leading the investigation, said: 'First and foremost, our thoughts are with Ryley's family as they come to terms with this tragic loss. This is an unimaginably difficult time for them.

In a heartbreaking tribute, a family member wrote on Facebook: 'My world is destroyed.' Ryley is pictured, appearing to celebrate a birthday with family

Police are asking for witnesses who may have come across Ryley (pictured) on Friday night

'Soho was bustling at the start of a Bank Holiday, which means there is a likelihood someone saw or spoke to Ryley.

'If this is you, you may hold really important information that helps us piece together the circumstances surrounding Ryley's death and we would ask you to please get in touch with us as soon as possible.'

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Met Police.
A woman has been killed by an alligator while canoeing with her husband on a Florida lake.

The couple were on Lake Kissimmee, south of Orlando, on Tuesday when the creature attacked.

They were paddling at Tiger Creek when the woman 'went into the water' according to officials.

Her husband desperately tried to fight the beast off but was unable to overpower it.

Emergency services were called to the scene at around 4pm and spotted the victim floating in the water.

She was recovered from the lake and pronounced dead at the scene, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission said.

A radio call obtained by WKMG detailed her husband's desperate struggle to save his wife.

'Gator grabbed her out of the canoe,' the officer said. '[Her husband] tried to fight the gator off. We're at the last place he saw her. He left the paddle here where he last saw her.'

A woman has been killed by an alligator while canoeing with her husband on a Florida lake

The couple were on Lake Kissimmee, south of Orlando, on Tuesday when the creature attacked. Pictured: Emergency responders patrol the water

A nuisance alligator trapper was dispatched to the area in accordance with the Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP) which deals with alligators which are deemed a danger to people, animals or property.

The woman's identity has not been released by officials, but they are due to provide an update today at 11.30am ET.

It comes just months after another alligator attacked another woman in the same area near Lake Kissmimee.

On March 3 a woman was left with injuries after she was bitten on the elbow.

The FWC has advice for alligator safety which recommends keeping a safe distance if one is spotted.

Swimmers should keep to designated areas and avoid swimming at night or with pets, which should also be kept on a leash and away from the water's edge.

Feeding alligators is illegal and strongly advised against by the FWC which warns the practice can lead to gators losing their natural reticence and becoming a nuisance.

A Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission official said that the woman was spotted floating in the water and was pronounced dead at the scene

They were paddling at Tiger Creek when the woman 'went into the water' according to officials

Tuesday's gator attack came after Florida recorded its first fatal bear attack.

An elderly man and his dog were brutally killed in a Florida neighborhood normally known for its dangerous alligator population.

Robert Markel, 89, was found dead alongside his dog at his home near the quiet community of Jerome in Collier County.
A woke Virginia school district is investigating three boys after they questioned why a trans student was filming them in the male locker room, according to their parents.

Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) has opened a Title IX probe into the pupils at Stone Bridge High after they said the arrangement made them feel uncomfortable.

Title IX investigations involve allegations of sex-based discrimination, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic violence, and other violations.

A father of one of the students said the trans pupil, a biological female who identifies as male, used a mobile phone to record his son and others in the locker room after a gym class in March.

'I believe that is an invasion of their privacy,' he told ABC7. 'We're concerned'.

He said his son is being investigated for 'questioning why there was a female in the men's locker room'.

'Other boys were also uncomfortable with it,' he added. 'There were other boys asking the same question. They (LCPS) created a very uncomfortable situation.

'They're young, they're 15 years old. They're expressing their opinions, and now they're being targeted for expressing those opinions.

A woke Virginia school district is investigating three boys after they questioned why a trans student was filming them in the male locker room, according to their parents. A father of one of the students (pictured) said the trans pupil recorded boys in the locker room after gym class

Rena Smith (pictured) the mother of another male student accused of the Title IX violation also told a public meeting that her son is a 'victim' who has been 'ignored and unsupported by the very system that is supposed to protect him'. The investigation is ongoing, LCPS said

'I don't think my son should be punished for expressing his First Amendment right and being able to ask questions.'

'I have a daughter that's in high school as well, and if there was a male in there videotaping her in the locker room, I would have issues,' he added.

'If it's my son and there's a female in the locker room videotaping, I have issues. Even if it was somebody of the same sex, I believe that this is an invasion of their privacy.'

According to LCPS policy, video and audio recordings are prohibited in school locker rooms under LCPS policy. When asked by DailyMail.com whether the trans student was being investigated too, LCPS said 'the entire matter is being investigated'.

Rena Smith, the mother of another male student accused of the Title IX violation also told a public meeting that her son is a 'victim' who has been 'ignored and unsupported by the very system that is supposed to protect him'.

LCPS told DailyMail.com that allegations aired in the media are 'false', but said due to their ongoing investigation they could not clarify which points were incorrect.

'To be absolutely clear: Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) would not investigate or discipline students based on their personal opinions, thoughts, or beliefs, provided those expressions do not violate policies prohibiting hate speech, discriminatory language, threats, or other forms of harmful or disruptive conduct,' the school said in a statement.

'However, LCPS does investigate and may take disciplinary action when student behavior violates LCPS' Student Rights & Responsibilities Handbook for Families and Student Code of Conduct.

'Because this matter could result in discipline, LCPS will not discuss the specifics of the incident publicly.

'Student privacy is a fundamental right protected by both policy and law, and LCPS is firmly committed to upholding that principle without exception.

'Our decision not to comment on the matter should not be taken as license for any news organization to determine what the facts are without verification.'

Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) has opened a Title IX probe into the pupils at Stone Bridge High (pictured) after they said the arrangement made them feel uncomfortable

A woke Virginia school district is investigating three boys after they questioned why a trans student was filming them in the male locker room, according to their parents. A father of one of the students (pictured right) said the trans pupil recorded boys in the locker room after gym

Rena Smith (pictured left) the mother of another male student accused of the Title IX violation also told a public meeting that her son is a 'victim' who has been 'ignored and unsupported by the very system that is supposed to protect him'. The investigation is ongoing, LCPS said

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has also released a statement expressing 'outrage' over reports that LCPS is investigating the three male students.

'It's deeply concerning to read reports of yet another incident in Loudoun County schools where members of the opposite sex are violating the privacy of students in locker rooms,' Youngkin said.

'Even more alarming, the victims of this violation are the ones being investigatedthis is beyond belief.

'I've asked Attorney General Miyares to investigate this situation immediately so that every student's privacy, dignity and safety are upheld.'

LCPS hit back at the governor, saying it was 'disheartening to see an elected official rely solely on this media report to publicly criticize LCPS'.

'LCPS will not engage in public discourse that misrepresents our policies or the facts of a student matterespecially when doing so compromises student privacy, safety, and dignity,' the school district said.

'We reject any characterization that implies our schools are unsafe or that we fail to protect the rights of all students.'

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin (pictured)has also released a statement expressing 'outrage' over reports that LCPS is investigating the three male students

Attorney General Miyares (pictured) is investigating the situation, according to the governor

An independent investigation previously found that LCPS failed to meet its federal Title IX obligations following sexual assaults by the same student at two high schools in 2021, according to NBC4.

In May 2021, a male student sexually assaulted a female classmate inside a restroom at Stone Bridge High School.

He was transferred to Broad Run High School where he assaulted another girl the following year.

The investigation found that the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office told the school district to hold off on launching a Title IX investigation after the first attack, even though the school district was legally obligated to do so.

Investigators added that the district also failed to conducted a threat assessment of the attacker when it transferred the student.
A Chicago homeowner grew so fed up with a group of alleged squatters who refused to leave his property that he decided to move in with them.

Marco Velazquez, who owns the property in the South Side of the Windy City, had been preparing to sell the home when his estate agent discovered a couple inside it.

Shermaine Powell-Gillard and her boyfriend Codarro claimed that they had purchased the home, according to ABC7.

Velazquez told the outlet that the couple showed police officers who were called to the address documents claiming they had a mortgage for the address.

A search of county records indicated however that no mortgage record actually existed.

Officers on the scene told Velazquez there was nothing they could do for him, due to state laws, and that he would need to take them to civil court. He then decided to move in.

His wife and his friends joined him for the overnight, he added: ''We stayed in the living room, we were watching the door at all times.

'[The couple] stayed in one of the bedrooms. At one point they've got to leave, they've got to get tired of us being in the property.'

After officers on the scene told Velazquez there was nothing they could do for him, and that he would need to take them to court - he decided to move in

His wife and his friends joined him inside the property in the South Side of the city for the night, in a standoff with the couple

The next morning the couple told Velazquez that they would accept $8,000 in exchange for them vacating the address.

He had them sign an agreement and managed to negotiate them down, paying them $4,300 to leave the abode.

Under Illinois state law, officers are not allowed to remove anyone from a home.

Newsweek reported that a loophole exists that gives squatters 'legal standing' to possess real estate owned by property owners.

Velazquez added: 'We didn't want to give them money, but we heard really bad stories about squatters taking over properties for six, eight, 10 months, even a year.'

A few weeks after the standoff, Valezquez told the outlet that an officer informed him that Powell-Gillard is accused of squatting at another property.

In that incident, she was arrested and charged with burglary, forgery, obstructing identification and criminal residential trespassing.

He added: 'I heard stories before about squatters. I never thought it would happen to me.'

Shermaine Powell-Gillard and her boyfriend Codarro, seen here, claimed that they had purchased the home

Powell-Gillard told ABC7 that she is not a squatter and rejected any idea of such a title, saying they were 'false and unfounded'. No charges have been filed in the case of Velazquez.

Lawmakers in Chicago are attempting to make changes to laws around property rights, Newsweek reported.

Officials are considering revisions to how law enforcement can approach such incidents.

A proposed 'Squatter Bill' sponsored by State Representative La Shawn Ford was passed in the state Senate and is awaiting further action.

He told the outlet: 'I am distraught by the situation that Marco Velazquez has faced.

'This incident is a stark reminder of the challenges that many property owners encounter across Illinois.'
A man who was allegedly stabbed to death and dismembered by a Colombian porn star had filmed himself sexually assaulting a teenager, a court heard today.

A witness, giving evidence under the pseudonym James Smith, appeared by video link on Wednesday at the Old Bailey in the trial of Yostin Mosquera, who is accused of murdering and Albert Alfonso, 62, and Paul Longworth, 71.

The couple's remains were found in a suitcase and trunk left near the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol last July.

Mosquera, 35, denies both murders but has admitted the manslaughter of Mr Alfonso.

Mr Smith told the court he first met Mr Alfonso nearly two decades ago, when he was around 17 or 18 and had gone to his flat for drinks after meeting at a rugby match.

He told the court he remembered drinking heavily and then waking up with a 'banging headache'.

'I said to him, 'What's happened?' - he showed me a video of me on all fours and he was penetrating me,' he told the court.

'I didn't know what to do. I was mortified. At this point I didn't know my sexuality - I was confused and scared.

Yostin Andres Mosquera (pictured) is accused of murdering couple Albert Alfonso, 61, and Paul Longworth, 71, on July 8, 2024

The remains of Paul Longworth and Albert Alfonso (pictured left to right) were found in a suitcase and trunk left near the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol in July 2024

Forensic officers at an address in Shepherd's Bush, west London, after human remains were found in a suitcase near the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol

'[Being a] black boy in London, gay, whether you were drunk or not - it didn't matter.'

He said Mr Alfonso told him, 'Don't worry, I'm not going to show anyone,' but told him that if he did 'favours', the video would never be shared.

I didnt know what to make of the situation, I thought is it my fault,' he added.

Mr Alfonso told him he was interested in 'black dominatrix' fantasies and described fetishes involving 'master-slave' dynamics.

The two then began meeting regularly, with Mr Alfonso paying him around 150 for each sexual encounter, the court heard.

Over time, the meetings became routine and involved consensual acts including domination.

He told jurors he wore a mask during the sex acts, as did Mr Alfonso, and that he would sometimes initiate contact when he needed money.

During the Covid pandemic, he said he became closer with Mr Alfonso and also began spending time with Mr Longworth.

He said he would go on bike rides with them and was occasionally supported financially.

Mr Smith told the court he was later introduced to Mosquera, who was described by Mr Alfonso as a young man from Colombia who was staying with them while attending Ealing College.

He said Mr Alfonso claimed to be paying Mosquera's travel and college fees, and that Mosquera told him he had a wife and child back home.

'I asked if he was gay or straight - he said he was just doing it for the money. I said, 'Great - so was I',' Mr Smith said.

Longworth who was allegedly killed by Mosquera (pictured in court drawing) has been accused of sexually assaulting a teenager

The witness, who goes by the alias of James Smith, said of Mosquera and Mr Alfonso's relationship: 'He was going to London with him, sightseeing, he seemed fun' (Pictured: Clifton Suspension Bridge)

He said the three had taken part in a sex session together the week before the killings.

Describing the relationship between Mosquera and Mr Alfonso, the witness said: 'Good - very good. He was going to London with him, sightseeing, he seemed fun.

'I didn't see anything that seemed like they disliked each other.'

Speaking about Mr Longworth, he added: 'He wouldn't hurt a fly. After the sessions he would come and sit with us and talk with us.'

Mr Smith described the final time he saw them, on a Friday evening before the bodies were discovered.

'Albert gave me a hug, Paul gave me a hug, and that was the last I heard of those two,' he said.

The trial continues.
President Donald Trump may use military flights to deport migrants to Libya for the first time this week.

The flights could take off as soon as Wednesday, although the official schedule is still in flux, Reuters reported.

It was unclear how many migrants would be sent or which nationalities would qualify for removal to northern Africa.

When asked about the report on Wednesday in the Oval Office Trump responded: 'I dont know, youll have to ask Homeland Security.'

The new front in Trump's deportation war highlights the expansive purview of the White House's efforts to send migrants in the U.S. to far-flung corners of the world.

The Pentagon declined to comment on the latest move. The Daily Mail has reached out to the White House and State Department for comment.

Millions of migrants from Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Europe, in addition to those from South and Central America, poured across the U.S. southern border under Joe Biden.

Libya has had two major factions warring for control of the country for years.

President Donald Trump's administration is reportedly looking to deport migrants form the U.S. to Libya

llegal immigrants are seen at a detention centre in Zawiyah, 45 kilometres west of the Libyan capital Tripoli, on June 17, 2017

Honduran migrants arrive on a deportation flight following U.S. President Donald Trump's national emergency declaration on immigration, at the Ramon Villeda Morales International Airport, in San Pedro Sula, Honduras January 31, 2025. Military planes, the like one shown above, have been used to facilitate removals.

Unlike El Salvador, another country the U.S. has struck a migrant prison deal with, it does not have a cutting edge prison system.

The State Department has a 'do not travel' notice for Americans seeking to visit Libya 'due to crime, terrorism, unexploded landmines, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict,' according to its website.

A 2021 report from Amnesty International likened the detention centers in the north African country to a 'hellscape' and some detainees 'faced torture and other ill-treatment, cruel and inhuman detention conditions, extortion and forced labor.'

'We are working with other countries to say: We want to send you some of the most despicable human beings, will you do this as a favor to us,' Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last week.

'And the further away from America, the better.'

The chatter of a prison deal seemed to come as a surprise to Libya itself.

The country's Government of National Unity said Wednesday that it is not speaking with the Trump administration, adding they are against the use of their lands for U.S. deportations.

Khalifa Haftar, leader of the Libyan National Army, yhe other faction grappling for power of the country, also rejected the deportation proposal.

A vehicle arrives with a single detainee at the Bluebonnet Detention Facility, the facility where Venezuelans at the center of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling on deportation are held, in Anson, Texas, U.S., April 24, 2025

Guatemalan migrants arrive at La Aurora Air Force Base on a deportation flight from the U.S., in Guatemala City, Guatemala, January 20, 2025

The notion of a prison deal between the U.S. and Libya, if finalized, will certainly raise alarm among Democrats.

Already they have outspokenly condemned the Trump administration for deporting migrants to Guantanamo Bay and El Salvador's CECOT.

In the instance of Salvadoran Kilmar Abrego Garcia, the outrage over his removal to CECOT due to an 'administrative error' during his case, has prompted Democrats to fly to Central America to advocate for the man's release.

Trump's team has also been in contact with Rwanda to see if the country is open to receiving migrants deported from the U.S.

Rwanda's Foreign Affairs Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe has said his country is in the 'early stage' of negotiations over a potential deal.

DHS announced last week that in Trump's first 100 days over 152,000 migrants were deported, many of them to prisons in El Salvador, Cuba and Panama.

The Trump administration also announced a program that would pay migrants to self-deport.

Offering a free flight to any country of their choosing and a $1,000 cash stipend upon arrival to that country, DHS announced a program to incentivize illegal aliens to remove themselves from the country rather than wait to be deported.

DHS Sec. Kristi Noem explained the method would save money and help protect migrants and law enforcement officers.

Trump adviser Stephen Miller told reporters the plan could save up to $1 million per migrant family over time.
The most prominent living member of the Bush family will not be on hand when first lady Melania Trump holds an event announcing a new Barbara Bush commemorative stamp.

Former President George W. Bush is not expected to attend the event. Nor is former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush expected.

Instead, Doro Bush Koch, the daughter of President George H.W. Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush will be there, according to an announcement by the office of the first lady.

A spokesman for the former president didn't respond to inquiries, but President Trump has lobbed a long list of pointed criticisms at the Bush family.

The former president and former first lady Laura Bush both attended Trump's inauguration, but didn't stick around for the luncheon.

The former president delivered curt review of President Trump's first inaugural address where he spoke of 'American carnage.'

'That was some weird s***,' he reportedly said.

Trump has relentlessly attacked Bush for the Iraq war, accusing him in 2021 of having a 'failed and uninspiring presidency.'

First lady Melania Trump is hosting an event where she will unveil a new postage stamp for former first lady Barbara Bush

Many top former Bush officials have broken from Trump, and Bush said he wrote in his former national security advisor Condoleeza Rice for president in 2020.

Trump famously pounded on Jeb Bush during his 2016 campaign, trying to yoke him to his brother in an angry South Carolina debate. '

'We should have never been in Iraq,' said Trump. 'They lied. They said there were weapons of mass destruction. There were none and they knew that there were none.'

Melania Trump, along with the Obama and the Clintons, attended Barbara Bush's funeral in 2018 during Trump's first term.

Trump watched the memorial service on TV from Mar-a-Lago. The White House said he stayed away to avoid disruptions and 'out of respect for the Bush family and friends.'

The former first lady championed literacy and helping people with AIDS during her tenure

President Trump has refashioned a Republican Party once dominated by an establishment wing

President George W. Bush and Laura Bush attended Trump's inauguration in January

The stamp event puts Melania back on stage at the White House, continuing a role from prior rollouts of first lady stamps.

The former president is not expected to attend, the Washington Post reported.

Last year's event featuring the Betty Ford stamp was hosted by Jill Biden and attended by Ford's daughter Susan Ford Bales.

It was also attended by then-postmaster Louis DeJoy, who was forced out in March amid Trump's talk of privatization and new moves by Elon Musk's DOGE staff. Biden also hosted an event to unveil a stamp for Nancy Reagan.

Thursday's event is expected to be attended by acting Post Master General Doug Tulino and Alice Yates of the George and Barbara Bush Foundation.

'There are additional friends, family, and staff of the Bush family who will be in attendance,' a spokesman for the first lady told DailyMail.com, adding that the office won't be sharing a guest list.
A Remainer poster girl who sparked outrage by trying to stop Brexit is making a bid to become Cambridge Universitys next Chancellor.

Gina Miller, the controversial campaigner, has put herself forward for election to the historic role, saying she would use it to promote ethical leadership.

Mrs Miller, 59, became a divisive figure over her 2017 campaign against then Prime Minister Theresa May triggering Article 50  the legal mechanism taking the UK out of the EU - without Parliamentary approval.

Following a fierce legal battle, the Supreme Court ruled in favour of giving MPs a say over the move.

The following year, she admitted she was the most hated woman in Britain due to her high-profile campaign.

Mrs Miller announced today she has secured 70 nominations for the race to become Cambridges next Chancellor, exceeding the threshold of 50.

These will now be verified by the university, with a formal announcement of all successfully nominated candidates expected later this month.

For the first time, alumni from around the world will be able to vote online for their favourite candidate  as previous elections took place in person.

A Remainer poster girl who sparked outrage by trying to stop Brexit is making a bid to become Cambridge University's next Chancellor (pictured: Gina Miller)

While the role is largely ceremonial, the Chancellor can still set the symbolic direction of the university and give advice to campus management.

Mrs Miller said today: At a time when truth, academia, experts and facts are being undermined, Cambridge must stand tall as a fearless defender of academic freedom and excellence.

She said she would use the role as an active platform to amplify Cambridges values, promote ethical leadership, and boost the universitys role in shaping a fairer, more informed, and solution-driven world.

And she added: Cambridge must continue to attract the best research talent from around the world  especially from the United States, where academics are facing growing attacks.

Lord Sainsbury of Turville, who replaced the Duke of Edinburgh in the position, announced he intended to step down from the role last year.

Voting will take place in July.

Others vying for the position include Cambridge astrophysicist Wyn Evans and former BP chief executive Lord Browne.

Mrs Miller, a businesswoman, ran a second campaign in 2019 over Boris Johnson's decision to suspend Parliament in the run-up to Brexit, ultimately leading to a ruling of unlawfulness by the Supreme Court.

Gina Miller, the controversial campaigner, has put herself forward for election to the historic role, saying she would use it to 'promote ethical leadership' (pictured: Trinity College, Cambridge)

However, she has since spoken about suffering harassment and death threats due to her high-profile campaigning.

And in January, the mother-of-three, who is married to her third husband Alan, she also opened up about being treated for cancer after a devastating diagnosis last year.

She told The Times she regretted getting involved in the Brexit campaign due to the strain it has put on her health.

She said of her cancer: Ive been vegetarian for many decades and I dont eat ultra-processed food, so I dont believe that environmental or health factors were contributory factors, so all I can put it down to is stress.

And with hindsight I wouldnt have got as involved in the Brexit challenge as I did.
President Donald Trump said he's 'looking' at possible tariffs exemptions for certain everyday items.

Those include family goods like car seats, he revealed to media assembled in the Oval Office.

Earlier, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the arrest of over 200 alleged child sex predators.

They are accused of preying on children online.

A total of 115 children were rescued in 'Operation Restore Justice,' which she said was an 'unprecedented and historic' investigation.

Meanwhile. Trump threatened to take action against several 'activist' judges for trying to derail his MAGA agenda.

This Daily Mail blog is now closed.
A Mississippi Air Force base has been placed on lockdown amid reports of an active shooter.

Keesler Air Force Base issued an alert stating it is in 'lockdown mode' at around 8am ET on Wednesday.

The military base was due to conduct a readiness drill today, but the incident is not connected to the plans, WLOX reports.

Keesler AFB issued a statement confirming that the incident is 'real world'.

'Avoid the following areas: NORTH of the hairpin on Ploesti Dr and anything NORTH of Meadows Dr. These areas remain on lockdown!' officials wrote.

At around midday they followed up to state that there was no evidence of any threat.

'After extensive security operations, no indications of an active shooter or active threat to Keesler AFB have been discovered,' the statement read.

'Crews are finalizing their searches as a precautionary measure at this time. The installation is secure, and no injuries have occurred.'

Keesler Air Force Base issued an alert stating it is in 'lockdown mode' at around 9.30am on Wednesday following reports of an active shooter

The military base was due to conduct a readiness drill today, but the incident is not connected to the plans

The base is located in Biloxi on the Gulf Coast, around 168 miles south east of Jackson, the state's capital.

There are approximately 5,100 active duty military, 1,625 civil service employees, 13,000 retirees, 4,763 family members and 2,700 contractors on Keesler AFB, according to the base.

This is a developing story, please check back for updates.
A summer drought could be looming in England after the driest start to spring in generations.

Lack of rainfall has left reservoir levels dwindling, crops struggling and vegetation parched, leading to wildfires in Cumbria, Derbyshire and Dorset, and triggering warnings from the Environment Agency.

Following a meeting of the National Drought Group of water companies, farming groups and other senior officials on Wednesday, the regulator has warned that, without sustained rainfall, hosepipe bans and other restrictive measures could become necessary in the months ahead.

Urging water firms to do more to safeguard supplies, Richard Thompson, the agency's deputy director of water, said the prospect of drought was a sign of things to come.

'The changing climate means we will see more summer droughts in the coming decades,' said Thompson.

'The last two years were some of the wettest on record for England, but drier conditions at the start of this year mean a drought is a possibility and we need to be prepared.

'It's heartening to see more people looking to reduce their water use and we expect water companies to do more to cut leakage and roll out smart meters.'

After heavy rainfall over the past two years, England has experienced its driest start to spring in March and April since 1956.

After heavy rainfall over the past two years, England has experienced its driest start to spring in March and April since 1956, with reservoir levels dwindling

A wildfire is seen on the Isle of Arran, Scotland, one of several areas in which parched vegetation has led to fire

Dry conditions exacerbated the extent of a wildfire around the size of 'two rugby pitches' that was started by a disposable barbecue in the Trossachs, a protected site in Scotland

Met Office figures have shown that rainfall was at about half the expected level in April, which was the sunniest on record for the month, and only a quarter of the long-term average in March.

While there have been significant regional differences, the overall picture is sobering, with reservoirs just 84% full nationally.

To put that in context, water levels were at 90% at the end of April 2022, which turned out to be the fifth driest summer since the 1890s.

The issue is particularly acute in the north of England.

Reservoir levels are either notably low or exceptionally low across the north-east and north-west, where it has been the driest start to the year since 1929.

Typically in such circumstances, water companies rely on local rivers. But while chalk groundwater levels are generally good, river flows are unseasonably low across northern and central England.

According to the National Farmers Union, farmers have had to start irrigating crops early, placing greater pressure on their onsite storage reservoirs and attracting heightened scrutiny from the Environment Agency.

Jenna Hegarty, head of policy at the Nature Friendly Farming Network, said current conditions underscored the need to make farms more climate resilient by taking steps to restore soil health, increase natural shade and shelter, and cut down on the use of chemicals.

'Many farmers are already leading the way, but we urgently need more support to scale up nature-friendly and climate-smart farming,' said Hegarty.

Despite signs warning of deep water at Woodhead Reservoir in Longdendale, Derbyshire, water is below expected levels at present

'From improved climate-resilient infrastructure, such as new reservoirs, to increased funding that allows farmers to share knowledge and best practice, government leadership is essential to drive this transition.'

Rachel Hallos, vice-president of the National Farmers' Union, urged the government to recognise the importance of water for food production.

'The extreme weather patterns we have experienced over the past few years is impacting our ability to feed the nation,' said Hallos, who called for 'planning policies that support on-farm water storage, investment in water-use efficiency on farm, and innovation in more water efficient crops and farming systems'.

Weather patterns in the UK have veered between extremes in recent years, ranging from droughts and record-breaking heat to heavy rainfall and flooding.

In 2022, the country experienced scorching conditions, with temperatures reaching 40C for the first time. Persistent dry spells led to official declarations of drought in some areas.

But the following year brought a marked change as England experienced its fourth wettest year since the Met Office began compiling data.

By the following September, further heavy rainfall saw the country register its wettest 12-month period since 1871, according to the Environment Agency.

But 2025 has brought below-average rainfall every month so far, including the sixth driest March on record.

'Our water infrastructure is crumbling after years of under-investment,' said water minister Emma Hardy. 'Water companies must go further and faster to cut leaks and build the infrastructure needed to secure our water supply.'
Labour MPs ramped up their revolt against Keir Starmer over winter fuel and benefits cuts today - warning he faces a Poll Tax moment.

Diane Abbott compared the public backlash to that faced by Margaret Thatcher during a bruising debate in Westminster Hall.

The former frontbencher said Labour's local elections drubbing represented anger 'boiling over', urging Sir Keir to take a 'moral' stance and drop the policies.

Other Labour MPs rowed in to insist they will oppose the welfare reforms when they come before the Commons.

Meanwhile, 'Blue Labour' peer Lord Glasman has urged the government to be more radical, saying Nigel Farage was leading a 'working class insurrection against the progressive ruling class'.

Sir Keir squirmed over the winter fuel allowance at PMQs this afternoon as he was accused of hammering pensioners.

Keir Starmer squirmed over the winter fuel allowance at PMQs this afternoon as he was accused of hammering pensioners

Diane Abbott compared the public backlash on winter fuel to that faced by Margaret Thatcher over the poll tax during a bruising debate in Westminster Hall

Baroness Thatcher faced riots over the introduction of the Poll Tax

Fellow Labour MP Rachael Maskell, another strident critic of the cuts, said: 'Colleagues we are better than this.'

During a bad-tempered PMQs, Kemi Badenoch said the government was 'balancing the books on the backs' of the older generation.

But Sir Keir retorted that only Labour was addressing the 'challenges we face', pointing to the trade deal with India announced yesterday.

Sir Keir is under huge pressure to change direction following the dire performance in the local contests. Labour lost the Runcorn by-election along with nearly 200 councillors as Reform translated its polling into real power.

The Red Wall group of Labour MPs met last night and issued a statement urging Sir Keir to 'rebuild' trust.

The group said that 'responding to the issues raised by our constituents, including on winter fuel, isn't weak'.

The unrest was fuelled today as a poll showed Reform's support hitting a new record high.

The insurgents were on 29 per cent in the latest YouGov poll carried out in the wake of the local elections, up three on last week.

That was seven points ahead of Labour, who were down one. The research found the Tories were on just 17 per cent, the lowest since the end of Theresa May's leadership.

Speaking during the Westminster Hall debate on disability benefits, Ms Abbott said: 'The country's anger at these cuts boiled over last week in a spectacular fashion with a by-election in Runcorn where Labour lost its 16th safest seat...

'The single most important reason for vote switching was anger at the government cutting winter fuel allowance and welfare cuts like the cuts proposed for PIP. Immigration comes well down the list.'

Ms Abbott demanded to know 'in what universe is slashing benefits for the disabled moral?'

She accused the government of making 'a conscious choice to balance the books on the backs of people on welfare'.

'Some of us are old enough to remember Mrs Thatcher and her poll tax and it was her undoing,' she swiped.

'It is not too late to drop the winter fuel and the cuts to PIP and I plead with my government to do so.'

Fellow Labour MP Rachael Maskell, another strident critic of the cuts, said: 'Colleagues we are better than this...

'I will be voting against these cuts because I am Labour and disabled people matter.'

Backbencher Nadia Whittome said: 'If the government goes through with these disability benefit cuts it will be making a huge mistake which the public will not forgive us for.'

Labour MP Steve Witherden also indicated he is ready to vote against the benefits cuts.

Your browser does not support iframes.

Other Labour MPs rowed in to insist they will oppose the welfare reforms when they come before the Commons

Appearing at a Policy Exchange event in London, Lord Glasman - a Labour thinker with connections to Trumpian factions in the US - said the time of delegating decisions out to supernational bodies had past

Appearing at a Policy Exchange event in London, Lord Glasman - a Labour thinker with connections to Trumpian factions in the US - said the time of delegating decisions out to supernational bodies had past.

He insisted that from the perspective of the White House 'the worst thing you can be is a globaliser'.

'Politics is back. This is the terrifying reality for our ruling class. IS that the people of the country are making their views known extremely clearly, they think there is a better path ahead.'

He added: 'Politics is back and everything is up for grabs.'
A chilling image has captured a newborn baby boy who was discovered abandoned next to a dumpster with his umbilical cord still attached.

The tiny infant was found crying beside the trash at an apartment complex in Riverside, California, on Sunday afternoon after residents reported hearing a baby's cries coming from the area.

Police are now searching tirelessly for the mother who abandoned the helpless newborn.

Officers responded to the 3800 block of Jackson Street around 2:30pm, when they discovered the helpless newborn still breathing, according to a news release by the Riverside Police Department.

'When officers arrived, they found a newborn baby boy lying next to a dumpster, breathing, crying, and with the umbilical cord still attached,' the news release states.

Paramedics rushed the baby to a hospital directly across the street where he is now reported to be in 'good health and stable condition.'

Riverside Police Department investigators believe the baby was delivered just hours before being abandoned and fear the mother may need medical attention.

A haunting photo has captured the hours-old newborn getting treatment in the hospital.

'Our primary concern is locating the mother to ensure her own health and safety, and getting her any medical care or support she may need,' the police spokesperson wrote.

A newborn baby boy has been discovered abandoned next to a dumpster with his umbilical cord still attached

Detectives are asking for the public's help in identifying anyone who may have been recently pregnant but is now without a newborn.

Detective Jessica Iniguez, who is leading the investigation, urged anyone with information to come forward.

Authorities emphasized that California's Safely Surrendered Baby Law allows parents to legally hand over newborns within 72 hours of birth with no questions asked - a measure specifically designed to prevent dangerous abandonments.

Under the law, which was made permanent in 2006, parents can surrender babies at any hospital or fire station in Riverside County without fear of prosecution.

The incident has sparked outrage from the local community, with many expressing relief that the baby was found alive.

'Bless his little heart,' one user commented. 'Thank you Lord for watching over him and leading the Good Samaritan to find him, calling the police. My gut tells me it's a young teenage mom

Many offered support and help, with some local residents even asking if they can adopt the newborn.

'How can I take care of him? I would love to help this little one,' wrote one user.

Another commented: 'I have breastmilk I'd love to donate to feed this sweetie!!! It has colostrum and will benefit baby so much.'

The tiny infant was found crying beside a trash enclosure at an apartment complex in Riverside, California , on Sunday afternoon after residents reported hearing a baby's cries coming from the area

Others pointed out that we still don't know the whole story and should not be quick to judge the mother before the truth comes out.

'For everyone blaming the mother you have no idea what the circumstances could be. It's possible that the mother is not the one who dropped the baby off and the mother is in a horrible situation.'

'This is a reminder that we as neighbors need to look out for our other neighbors and if you see something suspicious report it. Hopefully this baby finds a home that will love him unconditionally and hopefully the mother is OK as well.'
Kemi Badenoch today angrily denounced Indian claims that she agreed to a tax waiver for Indian workers forming part of a UK trade deal when she was a minister, only to attack it now she is in opposition.

The Tory leader lashed out at claims of hypocrisy levelled at her by officials in Delhi, with whom she led trade talks until the Labour landslide last July.

Mrs Badenoch has led criticism of a reciprocal agreement in the Labour-secured deal allowing Indian workers seconded to the UK to avoid national insurance contributions for three years.

The measure was included in the 5bn deal announced by Sir Keir Starmer and Narendra Modi yesterday, and branded 'two tier' by her and other critics for coming at a time when British firms are seeing NICs rise.

However, Indian officials today told the Financial Times that a similar agreement had been on the table when she was leading negotiations, with the only sticking point being the duration of the tax holiday.

The officials said the Tories offered two years, adding: 'They put it on the table. We wanted more than three, but the principle had already been conceded in return for some gives on our sides on services.'

However, in a post on X this afternoon, Ms Badenoch said: 'This is total and utter rubbish. I never agreed to any such tax deal.

'The evidence couldnt be clearer  I refused to sign the deal. As I have always said - No Deal is Better Than a Bad Deal.'

The Tory leader lashed out at claims of hypocrisy levelled at her by officials in Delhi, with whom she led trade talks until the Labour landslide last July.

Mrs Badenoch did not use any of her questions at Prime Minister's Questions today to raise the trade deal.

Several senior party figures have endorsed it despite the tax agreement.

Keir Starmer used PMQs to hail the deal as a 'huge win' for British workers and the largest made by the UK since Brexit.

Ministers today insisted it was a common part of international agreements, with the previous Tory government handing a five-year exemption to Chile in 2012.

Opening PMQs, Sir Keir said: 'The landmark deal we have done with India is a huge win for working people in this country.

'After years of negotiations this government has delivered in months, slashing tariffs, boosting wages, unleashing opportunities for UK businesses.

It is the biggest trade deal the UK has delivered since we left the EU.'

And he revisited the deal when he clashed with Tory leader Kemi Badenoch over plans to make winter fuel payments means tested.

Keir Starmer used PMQs to hail the deal as a 'huge win' for British workers and the largest made by the UK since Brexit .

Ministers today insisted it was a common part of international agreements, with the previous Tory government handing a five-year tax exemption to Chile in 2012.

After he asked if would admit he was 'wrong to remove the winter fuel payment from millions of pensioners', he said: 'The number one job of this Government was to put our finances back in order after the last government lost control...

'Because of the work that we have done, we are a country that countries like India want to do deals with, because of the messages and the work that we have done.'

Downing Street was unable to provide estimates of how the UK-India trade deal may impact immigration or tax-take in Britain.

Asked whether there was an assessment on the impact on migration numbers of the agreement, the Prime Minister's official spokesman said: 'We don't do individual line-by-line assessments on free trade deals.

'We do an overall impact assessment on the impact of a trade deal on the economy obviously, and the ONS and others, the OBR will continue to do their analysis as well and provide the usual updates on immigration figures.'

He said the national insurance exemption for some Indian workers applied to a 'specific, business mobility, intra-company transfer schemes' and not wider migration.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds this morning said critics of the deal were 'confused' and suggested unhappy Tories were jealous they had not managed to achieve a deal when they were in government.

Speaking to the BBC he said the UK has similar deals with 50 other countries.

But after PMQs Downing Street said the 'final details' had not yet been agreed, suggesting there was still wriggle room.

National Insurance contributions for British firms were increased in last year's Budget.
A seven-year-old boy has been left on life support after his mom let her friend take him swimming, when he nearly drowned.

Lauren Hill-Wilson, from Wichita, Kansas, says she had entrusted an unnamed friend with her son ZJ while she was at work last Thursday.

The unnamed friend said she would take the little boy swimming, with Hill-Wilson receiving a 911 call hours later saying ZJ was being rushed to hospital.

The youngster had been swimming inside the Red Roof Inn when authorities had to be called after he went underwater and did not resurface.

Speaking to KSN, Hill-Wilson said: 'They said it was my child, my ZJ. I just broke down, and I just screamed, and I cried.

'They said my baby had died twice, and they brought him back and got him a heartbeat, but its just his brain.'

According to Hill-Wilson, her son is still on life support nearly a week after the horrific incident and has yet to wake up.

ZJ has been unresponsive after he went under the water while in the swimming pool of the Red Roof Inn last Thursday

Lauren Hill-Wilson, seen here , says she had entrusted a friend with her son ZJ while she was at work

She also claimed to the outlet that she has been left in the dark about what happened and how her son ended up nearly drowning.

First responders on the scene they arrived to find a child that had gone underwater, they immediately administered life-saving measures including CPR, a statement said.

The Wichita Police Department said that they are still investigating the incident and are still looking to determine what happened.

Department Sergeant Atlee Vogt said: 'What we initially learned that kids were swimming and playing in the pool.

'There were other children and parents that were with the child here at the facility.'

As their probe continues, Hill-Wilson said she is praying her son recovers and for further clarity. She also said his siblings have been questioning his absence.

She added: 'My 4-year-old actually asks me every time he sees me where his brother is at.

'Today, I let him talk to his brother, and he kept saying "ZJ! ZJ!". Hes not responding.'

The Wichita Police Department said that they are still investigating the incident and are still looking to determine what happened

First responders on the scene they arrived to find a child that had gone underwater, they immediately administered life-saving measures including CPR. The pool area in the hotel is seen here

A GoFundMe has since been set up to help the family out with ZJ's recovery, it can be found here. It has raised over $3,000 as of Wednesday.

In a post to the fundraiser, organizer Taysia Wilson said: 'ZJ is a loving boy, 7 years old, and the eldest of 5.

'He loves having quality time with his siblings and close relatives! During his hospital stay, he has shown signs of improvement.'

Wilson said they are fundraising to help his mom pay any hospital bells not covered by insurance and any possible legal fees.
US vice president JD Vance has accused Russia of 'asking for too much' to end its invasion of Ukraine, just days after Washington said it would no longer mediate peace talks.

Speaking to Munich Leaders Meeting in Washington DC, he said: 'The Russians are asking for a certain set of requirements, a certain set of concessions in order to end the conflict. We think they're asking for too much.'

Vance added that the next step Ukraine and Russia ought to take is to agree to formally talk to each other.

'We would like both the Russians and the Ukrainians to actually agree on some basic guidelines for sitting down and talking to one another', he said.

Late last week, Washington said it will no longer mediate peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia after despot Vladimir Putin refused to sign a ceasefire deal.

State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said that the US will be changing 'the methodology of how we contribute... in that we will not be the mediators.'

'But we are not going to fly around the world at the drop of a hat to mediate meetings, that it is now between the two parties,' the former Fox News host added.

'Now is the time that they need to present and develop concrete ideas about how this conflict is going to end. It's going to be up to them.'

US vice president JD Vance (pictured) has accused Russia of 'asking for too much' to end its invasion of Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin (pictured) attends a meeting with Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025

An explosion of a drone is seen during a Russian drone strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine May 7, 2025

A Ukrainian tank passes by a burning car near the Russian-Ukrainian border in the Sumy region of Ukraine, Aug. 14, 2024

The day before the bombshell announcement, Trump approved his administration's first arms export to Kyiv.

He informed Congress that he would approve exporting at least $50million (38million) in arms to Ukraine.

This was the first time the president has approved an export deal since taking office in January, and came just a few weeks after the US put all military aid being sent to Ukraine under review.

It comes as attacks by Ukrainian long-range drones caused flight disruption at Moscow's main airports for a third consecutive day on Wednesday, the authorities said.

The attacks come as Russia prepares to receive the Chinese president and other foreign leaders for the annual Victory Day military parade in Red Square.

Russian flag carrier Aeroflot cancelled more than 100 flights to and from Moscow, while more than 140 flights were delayed as planes were repeatedly grounded, flight data suggested, because of what officials described as the Ukrainian drone threat and amid heightened security measures around the Victory Day events.

Russian air defences repelled an attack by nine drones close to the country's capital, Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin said.

Although Ukrainian drones have targeted Moscow in the past, the sustained attacks appeared designed to disrupt preparations for the 80th anniversary celebrations in Moscow marking victory over Nazi Germany in the Second World War - Russia's biggest secular holiday of the year.

An explosion of a drone is seen during a Russian drone strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine May 7, 2025

A view shows an apartment building damaged during a Russian drone strike

Moscow has continued to strike targets in Kyiv and elsewhere in Ukraine as the three-year invasion continues

The repeated assaults could unnerve Russians, who have been told by President Vladimir Putin that the more-than-three-year war with Ukraine is going well, as well as potentially embarrass him in front of his illustrious guests.

Security is expected to be tight at Friday's centrepiece parade. Foreign dignitaries, including Chinese president Xi Jinping and Brazilian president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, were due to arrive on Wednesday.

Russia plans a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire to coincide with the celebrations in Moscow. In March, the United States proposed a 30-day truce in the war, which Ukraine accepted, but the Kremlin has held out for ceasefire terms more to its liking.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said last weekend that his country could not provide security assurances to foreign officials planning to visit the Moscow events. Russia could stage provocations and later attempt to blame Ukraine, he said.

'Our position is very simple: we cannot take responsibility for what happens on the territory of the Russian Federation,' he said.

'They are the ones providing your security, and we will not be offering any guarantees.'

Attacks by Ukrainian long-range drones caused flight disruption at Moscow's main airports for a third consecutive day on Wednesday, the authorities said.

The attacks come as Russia prepares to receive the Chinese president and other foreign leaders for the annual Victory Day military parade in Red Square.

A photo shared by the Russian Defence Ministry purports to show abandoned Ukrainian ammunition in the Kursk region of Russia, in March 2025

A serviceman of Special Police Battalion attaches a mine to a Vampire combat drone before flying over positions of Russian troops, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine April 29, 2025

Russian servicemen walking along at an area in the Kursk region, Russia, 14 March

Russian flag carrier Aeroflot cancelled more than 100 flights to and from Moscow, while more than 140 flights were delayed as planes were repeatedly grounded, flight data suggested, because of what officials described as the Ukrainian drone threat and amid heightened security measures around the Victory Day events.

Russian air defences repelled an attack by nine drones close to the country's capital, Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin said.

Although Ukrainian drones have targeted Moscow in the past, the sustained attacks appeared designed to disrupt preparations for the 80th anniversary celebrations in Moscow marking victory over Nazi Germany in the Second World War - Russia's biggest secular holiday of the year.

The repeated assaults could unnerve Russians, who have been told by President Vladimir Putin that the more-than-three-year war with Ukraine is going well, as well as potentially embarrass him in front of his illustrious guests.

Security is expected to be tight at Friday's centrepiece parade. Foreign dignitaries, including Chinese president Xi Jinping and Brazilian

president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, were due to arrive on Wednesday.

Russia plans a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire to coincide with the celebrations in Moscow. In March, the United States proposed a 30-day truce in the war, which Ukraine accepted, but the Kremlin has held out for ceasefire terms more to its liking.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said last weekend that his country could not provide security assurances to foreign officials planning to visit the Moscow events. Russia could stage provocations and later attempt to blame Ukraine, he said.

'Our position is very simple: we cannot take responsibility for what happens on the territory of the Russian Federation,' he said.

'They are the ones providing your security, and we will not be offering any guarantees.'
Best-selling author Peter Hitchens questioned whether Britain was victorious in the Second World War on the latest episode of the Mail's Alas Vine & Hitchens podcast.

The broadcaster added that the public's belief in Britain's total victory constitues a 'pseudo-religion', with the 1945 defeat of Nazi Germany actually leaving the country 'a dump'.

In evidence of his claims, Hitchens told co-host and Mail columnist Sarah Vine, of his own late father's view of the war, who grew disillusioned years after fighting in the Royal Navy.

The pair were debating the legacy of the Second World War in light of the upcoming 80th anniversary of VE Day.

'My father was in the war. He was a professional officer in His Majesty's Navy', Hitchens said.

'He started the war in the Navy and ended the war in the Navy. He ran guns and tanks backwards and forwards, between Scapa Flow in the Orkneys and North Russia. As my brother described it, he ran guns to Joseph Stalin.

'He lost a lot of friends and saw things he didn't really want to talk about and as the years went by after the war, his life did not greatly improve. Nor did the lives of many other people of his kind.

'My father used to say in conversation: well, at least we won the war  he would then look meaningfully at anybody who was listening and say, "Did we?"

'I think he had a point. This country in 1945 looked like a defeated nation, not a victorious one. It was impoverished, smashed up, and broken.'

The author contrasted how Britain emerged from the First and Second World Wars, arguing that despite the 'disaster' of the Great War, at least the country exited the conflict 'looking more powerful than we'd ever been'.

Peter Hitchens questioned whether Britain was victorious in the Second World War on the latest episode of the Mail's Alas Vine & Hitchens podcast. Listen here

Vine and Hitchens debated he legacy of the Second World War in light of the upcoming 80th anniversary of VE Day. Listen here

Peter Hitchens: 'After the Second World War, Britain was a dump.' Listen here

Alas Vine & Hitchens: What's the big idea? Get the Mail's new politics podcast, hosted by columnists Sarah Vine and Peter Hitchens - wherever you listen to podcasts now.

After the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, bringing an end to the First World War, the British Empire acquired territories from the defeated Central Powers, including large swathes of the Middle East and Africa. This elevated Britain to its territorial height.

When victory was declared over Nazi Germany, the British economy was instead on its knees, and independence movements, broadly supported by the US, had been firmly fermented across the Empire.

Beyond Britain's borders, Communist Russia had subsumed almost the entirety of Eastern Europe into the USSR and America had unquestionably supplanted Britain as the world's preeminent superpower.

'After the Second World War, this place was a dump', Hitchens said.

'Everything was rationed. There was worse rationing after the war than during it. Even bread had to be rationed, which is astounding for a supposedly advanced country.

'This carried on being the case for a very long time. When my father's naval pension turned out not to be worth very much, his general attitude towards the victory grew less and less happy. I don't think this was uncommon.'

Vine disagreed with Hitchen's take on the legacy of the Second World War, telling her co-host that VE Day is important to celebrate to commemorate veterans of the conflict.

She added that VE Day marks a time when Britain 'stood for something', fighting against tyranny, even if it wasn't in the country's material interests.

She said: 'VE Day celebrations are really about the people who remain. There aren't many veterans left. It will be interesting to see if this sort of celebration continues once the last few remaining veterans have passed on.

'There's a very acute sense of Britain having stood for something. That we had been brave in the world, a country of people who had stood against a common evil.

Sarah Vine: 'Britain was brave, we stood against a common evil.' Listen here

Vine said that VE Day marks a time when Britain 'stood for something', fighting against tyranny, even if it wasn't in the country's material interests. Listen here

Sarah Vine 'When I think about VE Day, I remember my grandfather Arthur's life. What he had been through.' Listen now

'People really miss that now because I think we all feel that isn't the case anymore. VE Day is a love letter to that world.'

The journalist then referred to her own grandfather, who had returned from the war psychologically scarred, as the reason for her continued celebration of VE Day.

'My grandfather Arthur fought throughout the whole of Europe and North Africa, ending up in Burma. He would have been the last person to glorify war.

'If he were alive today, he would not be celebrating the war. He would have celebrated his men.

'That experience destroyed his life. Afterward, he became a very serious alcoholic  and had galloping PTSD.

'When I think about VE Day, I remember his life. What he had to put up with, what he had to deal with. I don't want it all to have been for nothing.'

Listen to the full episode of Alas Vine & Hitchens now, wherever you get your podcasts. New episodes are released every Wednesday.
Catholic cardinals sent black smoke signals this evening from the Sistine Chapel as the first day of conclave ended without a new pope.

Hailing from 70 different countries, the 133-strong group of cardinals gathered on Wednesday in the Vatican for the centuries old-ritual to elect the 267th pontiff following the death of Pope Francis last month.

Thousands of faithful flocked to St. Peter's Square as they waited for smoke to pour from a narrow flute on the roof of at the end of a day rich in ritual and pageantry.

Groans went up from the crowd as the dark plume came from the burning of the ballot papers.

The cardinals have now retired for the night and will return Thursday morning.

Up to four votes a day can take place from then, two in the morning and two in the afternoon, with white smoke confirming a new pope has been chosen.

It was unlikely that the cardinals would come to a consensus with the first vote today, given that previous elections have taken a number of days.

The longest conclave in history was almost three years, when Pope Gregory X was elected.

This photograph shows black smoke rising from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel signalling that cardinals failed to elect a new pope in the first ballot of their conclave in the Vatican on May 7, 2025

Faithful react to black smoke rising from the chimney on the Sistine Chapel indicating no decision has been made to elect a new pope

Nuns react at St Peter's Square as black smoke rises from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel signalling that cardinals failed to elect a new pope in the second ballot of their secret conclave at the Vatican, on May 7, 2025

The shortest lasted just 10 hours and ended with the election of Pope Julius II in 1503.

In recent history the next leader of the Catholic Church is usually elected within two or three days.

Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday aged 88, was seen as a liberal leader of the world's 1.2 billion Roman Catholics and many would like to see a similar successor.

There are three UK cardinals taking part in conclave - Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe and Rome-based Cardinal Arthur Roche.

Cardinal Nichols had called on people to pray for himself and other cardinals as they embark on the secret voting process, adding that he feels 'quite intimidated' knowing the world is watching to see who they choose.

The voting cardinals - those aged under 80 who are the only ones eligible to cast a ballot - were urged to 'invoke the help of the Holy Spirit' to help them elect a pope 'whom the Church and humanity need at this difficult and complex turning point in history', said cardinal Giovanni Battista Re.

As the master of ceremonies Diego Ravelli shouted in Latin 'Extra Omnes' (All Out) and the doors of the Sistine chapel were shut, applause broke out from the crowd in front of St Peter's who were watching on giant screens.

To ensure secrecy and no eavesdropping the Sistine Chapel has been swept for bugs and telecommunications antennas within the Vatican were turned off to prevent cyber hacking.

Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday aged 88, was seen as a liberal leader of the world's 1.2 billion Roman Catholics and many would like to see a similar successor

Thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square waiting for smoke to pour from a narrow flute

Catholic cardinals sent black smoke signals this evening from the Sistine Chapel as the first day of conclave ended without a new pope

Black smoke rises from the chimney on the Sistine Chapel, indicating no decision has been made to elect a new pope, at the Vatican, May 7, 2025

People gather in St. Peter's Square on the first day of the conclave to elect the next pope, Vatican City, 07 May 2025

This photo taken and handout on May 7, 2025 by The Vatican Media shows cardinals during a holy mass for the Election of the Roman Pontiff, prior to the start of the conclave, at St Peter's Basilica in The Vatican

The chimney atop the roof of the Sistine Chapel during the conclave to elect a new pope, at the Vatican, Wednesday, May 7, 2025

People gather in St Peter's Square in anticipation of a new pope as Cardinals begin their conclave to elect new Pope on May 7, 2025 in Vatican City

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is a frontrunner this time round and is considered one of the more liberal candidates

Cardinal Turkson, born in Ghana, was the bookies' favourite at one point when Francis was chosen in 2013. He would be the first black pope

Parolin has worked closely with Pope Francis but has upset some with his views on China

From the Eastern bloc, Erdo is a deep conservative and has spoken against divorced or remarried Catholics receiving holy communion

Favourites currently include the Vatican's Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, 70, and cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, 67, from the Philippines.

Francis named 108 of the 133 'princes of the church,' choosing many pastors in his image from far-flung countries like Mongolia, Sweden and Tonga that had never had a cardinal before.

His decision to surpass the usual limit of 120 cardinal electors and include younger ones from the 'global south'  often marginalized countries with lower economic clout  has injected an unusual degree of uncertainty in a process that is always full of mystery and suspense.

Many cardinals hadn't met until last week and lamented they needed more time to get to know one another, raising questions about how long it might take for one man to secure the two-thirds majority, or 89 ballots, necessary to become the 267th pope.

Addressing cardinals in St Peter's Basilica, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re said: 'To pray, by invoking the Holy Spirit, is the only right and proper attitude to take as the cardinal electors prepare to undertake an act of the highest human and ecclesial responsibility and to make a choice of exceptional importance.

'This is a human act for which every personal consideration must be set aside, keeping in mind and heart only the God of Jesus Christ and the good of the Church and of humanity.'

The pontiff - believed to be someone called to be the successor to St Peter, who was the first pope - will need to be a person who can 'awaken the consciences of all and the moral and spiritual energies in today's society, characterised by great technological progress but which tends to forget God', Cardinal Battista Re added.

Earlier there had also been controversy after Kenyan cardinal John Njue, 79, claimed he had not been invited to the Conclave and he dismissed Vatican guidance that he was 'ill'.

Hailing from 70 different countries, the 133-strong group of cardinals gathered in the Vatican for the centuries old-ritual to elect the 267th pontiff following the death of Pope Francis

A nun waits for the smoke to rise from the chimney

The pontiff - believed to be someone called to be the successor to St Peter, who was the first pope - will need to be a person who can 'awaken the consciences of all and the moral and spiritual energies in today's society, characterised by great technological progress but which tends to forget God', Cardinal Battista Re said

In recent history the next leader of the Catholic Church is usually elected within two or three days

Francis named 108 of the 133 'princes of the church,' choosing many pastors in his image from far-flung countries like Mongolia, Sweden and Tonga that had never had a cardinal before

He said:' 'Those who go there for the election are usually sent official invites, and that has not happened on my part.

'The fact is that I have not been invited. I don't know why I've been excluded, if I'm not there it's not because I am in poor health.'

Before being locked out several cardinals updated their social media feeds with Chilean Fernando Chomali, archbishop of Santiago, posted a video of himself washing a white shirt in the sink.

He wrote:'Washing the white shirt to arrive at the conclave spotless. United in prayer.'

While the cardinals are supposed to resist any 'secular' influences in their choice, such lobbying abounded in Rome in the days before the conclave as various groups reminded cardinals of what ordinary Catholics want in a leader.

Young Catholics penned an open letter reminding cardinals that there is no church without young people, women and the laity.

Conservative Catholic media slipped cardinals copies of a glossy book containing their assessments of contenders.

Survivors of clergy sexual abuse warned cardinals that they would be held accountable if they failed to find a leader who will crack down on decades of abuse and cover-up.

Advocates for women's ordination sent pink smoke signals Wednesday over the Vatican to demand that women be allowed to be priests and participate in a conclave.

A faithful cries while praying as he waits for the smoke to rise from the chimney on the Sistine Chapel

Pilgrims arrive during the cardinals' conclave to elect a new pope, at the Vatican, Wednesday, May 7, 2025

Visitors queue for security checks under the colonnade to enter The Vatican's St Peter's Square during the conclave, in Rome, on May 7

Faithful watch a giant screen showing images of cardinals entering the conclave in Sistine Chapel to elect a new pope

Black smoke signifies that no-one achieved the required two-thirds majority, and voting will resume tomorrow

The security measures at the Vatican City has included the 'shielding' of the mobile network and data throughout the City State, to prevent the cardinal electors from coming into contact with the outside world

A screen grab taken from a video released by the Vatican Media shows the cardinal electors leaving the Pauline Chapel

Cardinals attend a mass for the election of the Roman Pontiff, prior to the start of the conclave

Clergy members wait for the smoke to rise

Since Francis chose 80% of the voters, continuity is likely, but the form it might take is uncertain and identifying front-runners has been a challenge

A faithful prays with a rosary as he waits for the smoke to rise from the chimney on the Sistine Chapel

Many challenges face the new pope and weigh on the cardinals  above all whether to continue and consolidate Francis' progressive legacy on promoting women, LGBTQ+ acceptance, the environment and migrants, or roll it back to try to unify a church that became more polarized during his pontificate. The clergy sex abuse scandal hung over the pre-conclave talks.

Since Francis chose 80% of the voters, continuity is likely, but the form it might take is uncertain and identifying front-runners has been a challenge.

But some names keep appearing on lists of 'papabile,' or cardinals having the qualities to be pope, in addition to Parolin.

Voting will continue Thursday with two rounds in the morning and two rounds in the afternoon with Vatican officials saying smoke should be expected around 1pm local time and again at 7pm.

Vatican tailor Rainero Mancinelli, 86, has prepared three white robes for the new Pope in small, medium and large and the Vatican issued pictures of then hanging on a rail in the Stanza Delle Lacrime (Room of Tears).

Newly elected Popes are taken there and often said to burst into tears s they release the significance of their new tsk and after putting on the vestments re then led onto the balcony of St Peters to greet the cheering crowds.
The judge overseeing Sean 'Diddy' Combs' sex-trafficking trial in Manhattan slammed a member of the rapper's legal team after he discussed the case on a podcast.

Mark Geragos, who co-hosts the '2 Angry Men' podcast with TMZ founder Harvey Levin, called the all-female prosecution team 'a six-pack of white women' during the latest episode.

Geragos discussed a key piece of evidence expected to be shown at trial during an episode on Friday and was lambasted by Judge Arun Subramanian during the behind-closed-doors showdown.

'Let's have some real talk. I think this is ridiculous', Subramanian raged at Geragos, according to a court transcript.

'I think referring to the prosecution in this case as a six-pack of white women is outrageous. This is outrageous and this would not be tolerated in any court from any lawyer anywhere across the nation.'

He warned the embattled hip-hop mogul's lawyer that he would be 'watching and listening,' before adding: 'You have one more listener for your podcast.'

Geragos represents Diddy's mother Janis Combs and has been seen huddling with his team of lawyers. He described Combs as his client because he 'hasn't terminated him'.

He also revealed that he speaks to the disgraced music mogul 'with great frequency', and the rapper believes he is being 'targeted' for being black.

The judge overseeing Sean 'Diddy' Combs' case reprimanded his legal advisor Mark Geragos after he discussed his case on the podcast he co-hosts with TMZ founder Harvey Levin

Geragos called the all-female prosecution team 'a six-pack of white women' during the latest episode of his podcast '2 Angry Men'

The lawyer also stated that the rapper feels he is being targeted because of his race, explaining that his comment about 'white women' was intended as an observation about the trial - specifically, that it involves a Black man facing prosecution

The lawyer attempted to defend himself by claiming that it was an 'observation' about the trial, telling the court: 'I think when you've got a black man who's being prosecuted and the client feels like he's being targeted, it's a  it's an observation.'

Combs's trial legal team has agreed not to argue that he was 'targeted' by a 'selective' prosecution because he's black or bring up prominent white people who have hired sex workers and not been charged with crimes.

The behind-closed-doors spat took place after Southern District of New York prosecutors urged Judge Subramanian to remind Geragos and Combs's defense team of their obligations not to make public statements that could infect the jury pool.

Judge Subramanian didn't take Geragos' comments lightly, saying the comment was 'outrageous' and would not be tolerated in any court throughout the US

A court transcript obtained by DailyMail.com showed the prosecution describing the statements made on the podcast as 'very serious'.

The prosecution's team consists of lawyers Emily Anne Johnson, Madison Reddick Smyser, Mary Christine Slavik, Meredith Foster, Mitzi Steiner and Maurene Ryan Comey - the daughter of former FBI director James Comey

Despite his attempt to defend himself during the testy exchange, Geragos eventually backed down before quipping: 'As long as you subscribe, I'm all for it.'

On the podcast, Geragos said he would continue to discuss the Combs case in future episodes, before his showdown with the judge.

In an episode that aired on Friday, he said: 'I've known Sean for a long time. He has a violent temper, especially when you combine it with the drug use. But that isn't what he's charged with.'

Jury selection resumed for a third day in the sex trafficking trial as a federal judge and lawyers worked Wednesday to find a dozen New Yorkers who believe they can be fair despite any opinions they may have developed about the music mogul.

Geragos represents Combs' mother Janice (left) and has been seen huddling with his team of lawyers. He described Combs as his client because he 'hasn't terminated him'

Teny Geragos, the daughter of Geragos, and Marc Agnifilo are both lawyers representing Diddy in his sex trafficking case

Combs has been charged with sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, and transporting to engage in prostitution

By lunchtime on Tuesday, six jurors had been approved for the next stage of the process and seven had been struck.

The challenges of choosing a jury in such a high-profile case became apparent when one juror, a white man, took a long pause when asked if he could ignore the video of Diddy beating up his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura in 2016, which he had seen.

Prosecutors say Combs exploited his fame and fortune to sexually abuse women and destroy young lives while defense attorneys say he engaged in sexual activity with consenting adults.

The majority of prospective jurors questioned on Tuesday morning were disqualified after lawyers for Combs and prosecutors cited flaws in their answers to questions designed to see if they could be fair and unbiased.

Several who were eliminated from the jury pool had seen or heard media reports related to the case, including some who said they saw a video in which Combs was hitting and kicking one of his accusers in a Los Angeles hotel hallway in 2016.

Judge Subramanian was seeking to build a pool of 45 prospective jurors from which a panel of 12 jurors and several alternates can be chosen. Nineteen were chosen on Monday and six more by noon Tuesday. The final juy is expected to be empaneled on Friday.

Opening statements are scheduled to be presented on March 12 for a trial projected to last up to two months.

Combs has pleaded not guilty to a five-count indictment charging him with leading a racketeering conspiracy from 2004 to 2024 that resulted in various crimes, including kidnapping, arson, bribery and sex trafficking.

The Bad Boy Records founder has been held without bail since his arrest at a Manhattan hotel last September.
A former New York art gallery owner once dubbed Londons most dangerous woman is facing years in jail for stalking the former British ambassador to Belarus.

Farah Damji, 58, unleashed a reprehensible campaign of harassment on Nigel Gould-Davies after meeting him on the dating app Bumble in July 2023.

The former diplomat, 59, wept in court as he described how Damhi set about destroying his character within a month of meeting her.

Damji sent defamatory emails about Mr Gould-Davies copying in colleagues at Harvard University and New York Times editorial staff.

She also stole a legally privileged document concerning Russia from Mr Gould-Davies London home and threatened to post them online.

Mr Gould-Davies is the former British ambassador to Belarus and currently a fellow with the International Institute of Strategic Studies.

He is also a former associate fellow of Chatham House, the Royal Institute of International Affairs and an expert on Russia.

Mr Gould-Davies said he supported Damji after she was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer but the stalker set out to ruin his life.

Damji, who had articles published in the Independent and the New Statesmen, has convictions for fraud, theft, perverting the course of justice and three separate stalking charges.

Farah Damji, 58, unleashed a reprehensible campaign of harassment on Nigel Gould-Davies after meeting him on the dating app Bumble in July 2023

Damji sent defamatory emails about Mr Gould-Davies copying in colleagues at Harvard University and New York Times editorial staff.

The daughter of the late South-Africa-born property magnate Amir Damji, was jailed for 15 months in 2010 for a 17,500 housing benefit fraud.

Damji was locked up for five years in 2016 for stalking a church warden after they met on an online dating site.

She attended his sons school and spoke with the deputy headmaster to make false allegations about the warden abusing vulnerable women.

Damji then continued to stalk the church warden, and sent emails to the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Deputy Metropolitan Police Commissioner and an MP following her arrest.

She was convicted of stalking involving serious alarm and distress, theft and two counts of fraud by false representation by a jury at Wood Green Crown Court today.

Damji denied stalking Mr Gould-Davies and claimed the host of aliases she created were all real people and blamed them for harassing the diplomat.

Judge Joanna Greenberg remanded Damji in custody ahead of sentence on July 11.

During the four week trial Mr Gould-Davies was heard sobbing quietly behind a curtain as he told jurors he was a senior fellow for Russian and Eurasia at The International Institute for Strategic Studies - a think-tank.

Mr Gould-Davies said he met Damji on Bumble and knew her by the name Noor Higham.

He helped her set up a cafe called The View on Caledonian Road, Islington, recording podcasts, helping move furniture and even serving customers there as well.

Mr Gould-Davies said he began to receive abusive and wounding and hurtful emails from Damji within a month of meeting her.

He added they were very vitriolic and very nasty and really just attempts to destroy my character.

The former Associate Fellow at Chatham House said he was sent around 100 emails from the defendant using the aliases Holly Bright and Claire Simms.

One email sent by Holly Bright told him: Ive got photographs of a woman you bruised.

Mr Gould-Davies said he tried to reason with the chorus of attackers via email and text.

I frequently replied to Holly and Claire by both text and by email, particularly when they vilified me and abused me, to try and sort of understand why they were doing that and to reason with them and say no, what youre saying isnt true.

Damji (pictured) convicted of stalking involving serious alarm and distress, theft and two counts of fraud by false representation by a jury at Wood Green Crown Court today.

Events escalated when Holly Bright contacted the head of HR at his workplace accusing the Harvard educated journalist of preying on vulnerable woman.

Mr Gould-Davies told the court she also sent emails to his local Labour MP Emily Thornberry.

I realised that Noor was very nice to me when I was doing what she wanted, and if there was any kind of even small disagreement she would often sort of explode or suddenly turn on me.

Suddenly I would get a message from Claire Simms or Holly Bright vilifying and laying into me.

He said Damji made up elaborate stories to put distance between herself and the aliases she is said to have created.

On one occasion Noor said, Oh Holly opened up my phone when I was in the shower, and on another occasion - it was a very elaborate story - she said Oh Holly hacked into my computer and left spyware there".

Mr Gould-Davies said he had been asked to provide an expert view on a civil dispute relating to an aircraft impounded in Russia following the invasion of Ukraine.

The key point is I was being asked to provide an expert view for the companies that were trying to get compensated by Russia, so this is something that the Russian state didnt like or didnt want.

I was working with sensitive, legally privileged documents relating to the case and I had one of them printed out in my flat.

Noor took it and sent me a photo from her WhatsApp showing that shed taken it and threatening to put it on the internet.

Mr Gould-Davies was asked about a spoof Twitter account allegedly set up by Damji with a bio including the words: failed spook, ex-ambassador, fumbling academic, mentally unstable Russian expert.

He said he had to write to his line manager to explain the existence of the disgusting Twitter account.

If (people) saw something from this account without finding out what the account was, then they would - its perfectly possible it seems to me - have thought this was from me.

Mr Gould-Davies told jurors that Noor did not deny setting up the X account before later claiming it was Holly Brights doing.

Fighting back to tears Mr Gould-Davies told jurors: Like a fool, I accepted it.

I suppose I wanted to believe she hadnt created it, he said.

He told jurors he felt he had an obligation to look after her owing to her breast cancer diagnosis.

Judge Joanna Greenberg remanded Damji in custody ahead of sentence on July 11 following the trial at Wood Green Crown Court (stock image)

Mr Gould-Davies then wept again as he detailed the suffering he suffered at Damjis hands.

I have to be a big pillow constantly punched and punched and I just have to absorb it beause she needs me, he said.

Mr Gould-Davies only found out her name was Farah Damji when he made enquiries after the relationship ended about the identity of a person who created a fake website in this name with the hosting platform GoDaddy.

Damji had set up The View by convincing a wide range of suppliers to give her help and free goods as a community interest company, including the use of premises rent free.

Christiaan Moll, prosecuting, said The View linked her to a number of false emails and social accounts which we say are part of the evidence in this case.

Damji sent another email to the Ambassador of Kazakhastan in November 2023, referring to him as a severally dysfunctional cretin, said Mr Moll.

The result was for Mr Gould-Davies very frightening and disorientating, especially when these emails made serious defamatory statements and baseless claims that he physically abused women.

She even created a spoof Twitter account in the name John Halligan to mock Mr Gould-Davies.

He eventually flew to Berlin to seek temporary refuge in early 2024.

The defendant was keen to ascertain his whereabouts and he continued to receive messages and phone calls.

Mr Gould-Davies received one email stating: I have people searching for you, we are everywhere, and Holly is in Berlin.

The prosecutor added: Social media evidence (also) suggests at the end of February 2024 Damji visited a town in southern Spain where Mr Gould-Davies mother lives.

Jurors were played doorbell camera footage showing a woman sent by Damji to the former diplomats home when he was staying was in Berlin.

There is evidence that the defendant committed credit card fraud against the defendant in mid-December 2023, when one of his credit cards and indeed his passport disappeared without explanation, forcing him to cancel plans to visit his mother in Spain and instead spend Christmas with Noor, said Mr Moll.

Mr Gould-Davies credit card bill showed unexplained transactions totalling 13,621 including several to a company called Flowers for Freedom.

The Twitter and Etsy accounts for these companies have the defendants picture on them, the prosecutor said.

Damji was eventually arrested on her way to Berlin at Heathrow airport and she was interviewed several times by police on March 12, 2024.

She first came to public prominence after she admitted having a kinky affair with Guardian columnist William Dalrymple.

Damji also had a high profile affair with a senior executive at The Guardian.

While serving her five year jail sentence imposed in 2016 the stalker, also known as Farah Dan, raised 5,000 asking for donations on Twitter to hire a top QC to appeal the conviction.

She published character assassinations online of individuals she was prohibited from referencing.

She then penned a letter to a government body accusing the investigating officer in that case of stalking and harassing her.

Damji had complained that a police officer had scared her elderly mother by contacting her without permission in a message sent to Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA).

In 2020 she was convicted of two counts of breaching the restraining order in April 2018 and June 2018.

But Damji fled to Ireland during her trial and she was jailed in her absence for 27 months after a judge described her as extremely manipulative.

She was finally re-arrested in County Galway in August 2022 and returned to Britain to serve her sentence.

Damji, of Doughty Street, Clerkenwell, denied stalking involving serious alarm and distress, theft and two counts of fraud by false representation.
Memorising complex passwords and using clunky text message-based login systems are set to be a thing of the past as government departments begin a rollout of smart passkeys.

Passkeys  already being used in the NHS - are now being rolled out by the government and promoted to the private sector.

IT experts estimate they will save users one minute each time they sign in and be more secure.

When a user first logs in, the system sends a digital key to specific devices.

This allows a user to log in safely on future occasions without needing a password, text message or other code.

The key remains stored on the device and cannot be easily intercepted or stolen  with third parties unable to access accounts using other devices.

Passkeys will make for speedier access online services with better security, IT experts say

Cyber hackers pose a risk of fraud and phishing attacks which put organisations at risk

Feryal Clark, minister responsible for AI and Digital Government, announced the move at the National Cyber Security conference in Manchester today.

He said: The rollout of passkeys marks another major step forward in strengthening the UKs digital defences while improving user experience for millions.

Replacing older methods like SMS verification with modern, secure passkeys will make it quicker and easier for people to access essential services  without needing to remember complex passwords or wait for text messages.

This shift will not only save users valuable but it will reduce fraud and phishing risks that damage our economic growth.

The move is backed by the National Cyber Security Centre, part of GCHQ, which views passkeys as the future of online authentication.

NCSC Chief Technical Officer Ollie Whitehouse said: We strongly advise all organisations to implement passkeys wherever possible to enhance security and save significant costs on SMS authentication.

It comes as hackers have ramped up attacks on Britain with nationally significant incidents doubling in recent months, the UKs cyber security agency has revealed.

Hostile nation states led by China, Russia, Iran and North Korea are believed to be at the forefront of malign online activity, along with groups using ransomware to extort money.

Dr Richard Horne, chief executive of the National Cyber Security Centre, at the Cyber UK event

Speaking in the wake of the attacks on Marks and Spencer, the Co-op and Harrods, Dr Richard Horne, chief executive of the National Cyber Security Centre told how Britain faces a diverse and dramatic threat.

Dr Horne said: Weve managed more than 200 incidents since September last year (until the end of March). And that includes twice as many nationally significant incidents as the same period a year ago.

In the year to last September, the NCSC managed 430 incidents including 90 significant and 12 hacks .at the top end of severity.

It means Britain is on course for as many as 180 significant or 24 of the most severe incidents in the 12 months to the end of August.

Dr Horne highlighted the risk from organisations and businesses contracting out IT services.

The cyber security expert urged every organisation to plan IT infrastructure that seeks to minimise the scale of any attacks impact and to be able to continue and rebuild when an attack gets through.

Dr Horne added hostile nations have weaponised their cyber capabilities and are operating daily.

China remains the pacing threat in the cyber realm, while he warned of acts of sabotage directed by Russia.

The cyber security boss also pointed to an ongoing threat from Iran and revealed how British firms are being targeted by North Korean operatives disguising themselves as freelance third-country IT workers.

In order to defeat hackers using ransomware, Dr Horne said organisations must build the resilience thats needed to ensure recovery can happen without payment.

Pat McFadden, cabinet office minister, on stage with Richard Horne at the conference today

Cabinet office minister Pat McFadden told the conference cyber attacks such as those on major retailers were serious organised crime and should be a wake-up call for the public sector, for businesses up and down the country.

Mr McFadden also said that while critical infrastructure is more interconnected than ever, this creates risks and vulnerabilities as the technology can be weaponised.

But as well as the threat, the minister said British IT firms  the third-largest exporter of online security products and services - could turn the situation to their advantage.

A survey found cyber attacks may cost UK businesses as much as 64bn a year  with 53 per cent of firms having suffered at least one incident in the last three years.

The research published yesterday by cyber security provider ESET also found 43% of affected businesses reported a long-term impact on growth  but 15% of businesses had no cybersecurity budget.

Jake Moore, Global Cybersecurity Advisor at ESET, warned: Cyber resilience is no longer optional  it's essential.
In a cabinet full of good picks, nobody's stock has risen more in the first 100 days of the new Trump administration than Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

While the media has spent the early weeks of President Trump's second term obsessing over palace intrigue and recycled, untrue caricatures of dysfunction, Rubio was quietly becoming the most important member of the President's team.

'Ultimately the core function of this job is to operationalize the president to execute on the president's policy directives across various agencies,' Rubio told me in an exclusive interview.

Given all the hats Trump has assigned Rubio to wear (which include, in addition to his diplomatic duties, acting administrator of the US Agency for International Development, acting archivist for the National Archives and Records Administration and, most recently, interim National Security Advisor), it is clear the president thinks Rubio is meeting the moment.

Once a rival of Trump's on the 2016 debate stage, the Rubio pick engendered some skepticism from the MAGA right. But on issue after issue  i.e. deporting illegal aliens and gang members, revoking the student visas of terrorist sympathizers, and reorienting the foreign aid industrial complex  Rubio has not only embraced President Trump's 'America First' vision, but he has also articulated it and implemented as effectively as anyone.

'What the president has returned to foreign policy is common sense If it makes America stronger, safer, or more prosperous  we're going to do it,' Rubio said.

A refreshing aspect of Rubio's leadership: he knows how to talk to the American people in plain English.

There's no pablum or government-speak from Rubio. He simply lays flat the issue and articulates exactly what the president's views are, such as his clear statements on the revocation of visas from foreign college students who are harassing Jewish students and stirring up pro-terrorist sentiments on campus.

Rubio's blend of moral clarity, strategic focus, and communication savvy makes him not just the President's best cabinet member - but one of the most important foreign policy leaders of the post-Cold War era.

Rubio wears multiple hats: Secretary of State, acting administrator of the US Agency for International Development, acting archivist for the National Archives and Records Administration and, most recently, interim National Security Advisor.

'It is not in the national interest of the United Statesto invite people onto our university campuses who are not just going to go there to study... but who are also going to go there to foment movements that support and excuse foreign terrorist organizations,' Rubio said to podcaster Ben Shapiro.

'No one is entitled to a visa. Let's start with that, because I hear some of this reporting out there like if somehow  you're allowed to have a visa unless we can come up with a reason why you shouldn't have one. That's not true. The burden of proof is the other way.'

Aside from the issues of the day, Rubio's biggest mission is to 'reorient' the bureaucracy around a new foreign policy strategy that is solely focused on the national interest of the United States.

President Trump has entrusted Rubio with a sweeping reorganization of the State Department, a move that was decades overdue. For too long, Foggy Bottom functioned as a fortress of globalist inertia  an agency where career bureaucrats outlasted presidents and undermined elected political leaders.

Rubio, with Trump's backing, is tearing down that edifice. Gone are the days when taxpayer dollars were spent on foreign aid boondoggles, climate lectures to developing nations, or embassy programming steeped in DEI jargon.

Rubio isn't just managing Foggy Bottom  he's draining the bureaucratic quicksand and turning the State Department into a command center for American strength. As he put it, the goal is to 'move at the speed of relevance  a foreign policy that delivers, not theorizes.'

The new State Department will be aligned around national strength, American values, and accountability. And that includes moving the 'soft power' foreign aid functions formerly under the US Agency for International Development (USAID) directly under the control of the Secretary.

Often, Rubio said, USAID was working at cross purposes to the foreign policy goals of the presidential administration.

'You would have the ambassador... pursuing one strategy... and then you have this independent agency... promoting programs that were considered hostile by the government that we were trying to get closer to,' Rubio told me.

In a cabinet full of good picks, nobody's stock has risen more in the first 100 days of the new Trump administration than Secretary of State Marco Rubio .

President Trump has entrusted Rubio with a sweeping reorganization of the State Department, a move that was decades overdue.

And that's not to mention the waste and abuse of the foreign aid system by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that Rubio said were skimming millions off the top.

'We were just funding things that were propping up the foreign aid industrial complex... where you had to spend $10 million just to get $1 million to the recipients,' Rubio said. 'Three and four layers of subcontractors all getting a piece of the pie without any metrics on what we were getting in return.'

As a political matter, that dog will hunt with the American people.

As Trump's second term progresses, the world will continue to test America's resolve. The Russia/Ukraine conflict has proved hard to solve; the Middle East remains volatile; and the migrant crisis mess left by the Biden administration will cause headaches for years.

But it's increasingly clear that we have the right man at the helm of our diplomacy. Rubio's blend of moral clarity, strategic focus, and communication savvy makes him not just the President's best cabinet member  but one of the most important foreign policy leaders of the post-Cold War era.
Police in Canada have announced they are dialing back the search for two young children who vanished from their home into the woods of Nova Scotia last week.

Jack Sullivan, 4, and his sister Lily, 6, were last seen about 10am on Friday on a road close to their home in the Canadian town of Lansdowne Station.

Their parents believe the kids went out a sliding back door of the family's home while stepfather Daniel Martell and mother Malehya Brooks-Murray fed their baby.

Cops are working on the assumption that the children, who are both autistic, wandered off. Their stepdad Martell said he feared they may have been abducted.

At a press conference on Wednesday, Staff Sgt. Curtis MacKinnon, with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, said the search for two is now being scaled back.

MacKinnon added 'we're not packing up and we're not giving up', saying that all missing persons files remained 'suspicious until our investigation leads us to determine otherwise'.

'Many of us have children of our own and want nothing more than to reunite Lily and Jack with their loved ones', he added.

Brooks-Murray last week begged for their safe return in an emotional TV interview after searching the neighborhood for them.

'I'm just staying as hopeful as possible,' she told CTV News in an emotional interview.

Four year-old Jack Sullivan has been missing from his Nova Scotia home since Friday

Jack vanished alongside his sister Lily, six, who is seen here

'I want them home. I want to hold them, and I want them home. When they're found it will be the biggest relief to hug them.'

Brooks-Murray explained that she and Martell thought the children were playing, and they sneaked away the short time the couple were occupied.

'We always make sure that we're out there with them, watching them, and they happen to just get out that sliding door, and we can't hear it when it opens,' she said.

'They were outside playing, but we weren't aware of it at the time, and the next thing we knew it was quiet.

'We get up and look outside. We're looking everywhere, yelling for them, and I instantly just called 911. I just had the instinct I needed to call.'

Brooks-Murray said her children may have mild autism but were friendly, contrary to rumors online claiming they were non-verbal.

'They're both really happy-go-lucky children. They're so sweet. They talk to anyone. They'll talk your ear off. They will speak to anyone in a store, everyone. They're just extremely sweet kids,' she said.

The distraught mother questioned why an Amber Alert wasn't issued, but police said there was no reason to believe they were abducted.

Martell told CBC News on Sunday that he was frightened the children were taken by a stranger.

Brooks-Murray last week begged for their safe return in an emotional TV interview after searching the neighborhood for them

Stepfather Daniel Martell and mother Malehya Brooks-Murray

He pleaded with police to monitor the border with neighboring New Brunswick and nearby airports in case someone is trying to escape with them.

RCMP Corporal Sally Rice told CTV News on Saturday that there 'is no information to suggest [the siblings] were abducted'.

'Based on what we know, it appears they wandered off,' she added. 'The search will continue until we receive any new evidence that changes our direction.'

Police had been scouring a 2.2 mile radius around Pictou County Forest, with searchers focusing their efforts there before they announced the change on Wednesday.

Jack is described as having short-ish blond hair. He was wearing blue dinosaur boots.

Lily has light brown, shoulder-length hair with bangs. She may be wearing a pink sweater, pink pants, pink boots and may be toting a white backpack.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) bots are infiltrating California college classes in a financial aid fraud scheme, costing the state and federal government millions of dollars.

Professors across Golden State community colleges have noticed an uptick in non-participative students, specifically in virtual classes, since the pandemic.

Alarmingly, a significant portion of these passive enrollees have not actually been human, but AI-generated 'ghost students.'

These bots have been creeping their way into online courses and taking spots away from real students to scam money from financial aid and scholarship programs.

Since community colleges have high acceptance rates, these academic institutions have been easy targets.

Over the last 12 months, state colleges reportedly handed off $10 million in federal funds and $3 million in states funds to fake students, according to CalMatters.

Data collected from the start of 2025 indicates schools have already thrown away $3 million in federal aid and about $700,000 in state funds.

This is a jarring increase from the period between September 2021 and December 2023, when fake students reportedly drew in more than $5 million in federal money and $1.5 million in state funds.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) bots are infiltrating California college classes in a financial aid fraud scheme, costing the state and federal government millions of dollars (pictured: stock image of a Zoom call)

Since community colleges have high acceptance rates, these academic institutions have been easy targets (pictured: students walking at City College of San Francisco)

This growingly prominent scam has left professors disheartened. Instead of focusing on the quality of their teaching, they must probe their students to make sure they are legitimate.

'I am very intentional about having individualized interaction with all of my students as early as possible,' City College of San Francisco professor Robin Pugh told SFGate.

'That included making phone calls to people, sending email messages, just a lot of reaching out individually to find out "Are you just overwhelmed at work and havent gotten around to starting the class yet? Or are you not a real person?"'

In previous years, Pugh said she only had to pluck about five people from her 40-student online introductory real estate course for not engaging with her at the start of the semester.

But this spring, she had to slash 11 students - most of them bots - from the class.

Roughly 20 percent of 2021 college applicants were likely fraudulent, CalMatters reported. In January 2024, the number of fake applications rose to 25 percent.

The fraction shot up this year, with 34 percent of applications being suspected 'ghost students.'

'Its been going on for quite some time,' Wendy Brill-Wynkoop, the president of the Faculty Association of California Community Colleges and a professor at College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita, told SFGate.

This growingly prominent scam has left professors disheartened. Instead of focusing on the quality of their teaching, they must probe their students to make sure they are legitimate (pictured: Berkeley City College)

Berkeley City College librarian Heather Dodge (pictured) realized her online course was packed with the scammer bots when she asked students to submit a brief introductory video of themselves so she could get to know them

'I think the reason that youre hearing more about it is that its getting harder and harder to combat or to deal with.

'I have heard from faculty friends that the bots are getting so smart, theyre being programmed in a way that they can even complete some of the initial assignments in online classes so that theyre not dropped...'

Berkeley City College librarian Heather Dodge realized her online course was packed with the scammer bots when she asked students to submit a brief introductory video so she could get to know them, despite never meeting in person.

'I started noticing that there would be a handful of students that wouldnt submit that assignment in the first week,' she told CalMatters.

After emailing them - and not receiving a response - she dropped them from her class.

Southwestern College professor Elizabeth Smith had a similar experience this spring, when two of her online courses and their waiting lists were completely maxed out.

'Teachers get excited when theres a lot of interest in their class. I felt like, "Great, Im going to have a whole bunch of students who are invested and learning,"' she told The Hechinger Report.

'But it quickly became clear that was not the case.'

This growingly prominent scam has left professors disheartened. Instead of focusing on the quality of their teaching, they must probe their students to make sure they are legitimate (pictured: a City College of San Francisco building)

Chris Ferguson (pictured), a finance executive at the chancellors office, told CalMatters the scope of the fraud is 'relatively small'

Of the 104 students in the classes and on the waitlists, only 15 of the ended up being real people.

Professors have a specific time frame to move people from their roster so they cannot get financial aid for the class. However, after that period, it is more difficult to remove them.

Educators are also worried about becoming overzealous with their cuts - accidentally mistaking an actual student, possibly experiencing technical difficulties, for a scammer-sent agent.

'Maybe they didnt have a webcam, maybe they didnt understand the assignment. It was really hard to suss out what was going on with them,' Dodge explained.

This was the case for Martin Romero, a journalism major at East Los Angeles College, who was mistook for a bot and wrongfully dropped from a class.

On his first day of classes last fall, he failed to log into a session and his professor swiftly removed him.

'I was freaking out,' the 20-year-old told CalMatters.

He emailed the professor to try to rectify the issue, but the course was already filled up again.

These bots have been creeping their way into online courses and taking spots away from real students to scam money from financial aid and scholarship programs (pictured: stock image of a student doing an online course)

City College of San Francisco professor Robin Pugh (pictured) had to slash 11 students - most of them bots - from the class this spring

In the grand scheme of college funding, the California Community Colleges Chancellors Office estimated only a fraction of a percent of financial aid has been handed out to scammers, SFGate reported.

Chris Ferguson, a finance executive at the chancellors office, told CalMatters the scope of the fraud is 'relatively small' considering that California community colleges received $1.7 billion in federal aid and $1.5 billion in state aid last year.

Catherine Grant of the Department of Education's Office of Inspector General, which is tasked with handling fraud, told CalMatters her team is 'committed to fighting student aid fraud wherever we find it.'

CalMatters discovered that the FBI busted a scammer ring at Los Angeles Harbor College and West Los Angeles College in June 2022 after being tipped off by the department.

These fraudsters used at least 57 AI identities to steal more than $1.1 million in federal aid and loans over four years.

Another document from the education department to the FBI revealed at least 70 fake students were enrolled at Los Angeles City College 'for the sole purpose of obtaining financial aid refund money.'
President Donald Trump tore into Vladimir Putin on Wednesday, saying he's 'not happy' with the Russian leader.

Putin initially appeared amenable to Trump's plan for a 30-day ceasefire with Ukraine in order to move the peace talks forward. But, a few days after the agreement, Russian forces dropped bombs on Kyiv.

Trump, who is pushing a peace plan some see as favorable to the Kremlin, is showing his impatience as Russia drags its feet.

'We are getting to a point where some decisions are going to have to be made. I'm not happy about it. I'm not happy about it,' he told reporters in the Oval Office.

Trump heads to the Middle East on Monday where he had high hopes of signing a peace deal. That is not on the agenda for his time in Saudi Arabia.

The president's comments come as his advisers also had harsh words for the Russian leader and former President Joe Biden blasted Trump for his handling of the war in Ukraine.

President Donald Trump expressed unhappiness with Vladimir Putin

Biden accused Trump and his administration of 'modern-day appeasement' in its dealings with Russia.

'I just don't understand how people think that if we allow a dictator, a thug, to decide he's going to take significant portions of land that aren't his and that's gonna satisfy him, I don't quite understand,' Biden told the BBC.

'It is modern-day appeasement,' he said, referring to the policy some nations toward Nazi Germany in the 1930s, where leaders hoped to avoid a war if Adolf Hitler was allowed to make some territorial gains.

Trump has pushed Ukraine hard to agree to peace, saying he thinks it should give up its Crimea territory to Moscow.

The president has said repeatedly he wants the killing in the war to stop.

Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance said that Russia was 'asking for too much' in its initial peace offer.

He did not elaborate on the terms.

'I wouldnt say that the Russians are uninterested in bringing this thing to a resolution,' Vance said. 'What I would say is right now: the Russians are asking for a certain set of requirements, a certain set of concessions in order to end the conflict. We think theyre asking for too much,' he said.

Trump, when asked later Wednesday about the vice president's comments, told reporters at the White House, 'Well, its possible thats right.'

Vance said the Trump administration appreciated the Ukrainian President Zelensky was willing to honor the terms of the cease fire but he also indicated the time for that has moved on.

He said that Russian and Ukrainian leaders need to sit down directly to negotiate a long-term peace agreement.

'What the Russians have said is, 'A 30-day ceasefire is not in our strategic interests.; So weve tried to move beyond the obsession with the 30-day ceasefire and more on the, what would a long-term settlement look like,' Vance said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's government places the blame on Ukraine

Vice President JD Vance blasted Putin's demands for peace with Ukraine

And U.S. envoy Keith Kellogg told Fox News that Putin is the obstacle in a comprehensive ceasefire.

'I think we're close. The one man who can deliver it is President Trump. As long as Putin agrees. Right now, probably, our impediment in progress is the President of Russia not agreeing to it,' Kellogg said.

But the Kremlin is fighting back against criticism.

Russia has never opposed a ceasefire in Ukraine, foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told media in the country.

'The only obstacle to the ceasefire is Kyiv, which violates agreements and is unwilling to seriously discuss the terms of a long-term ceasefire,' Zakharova said.
A teenage girl was abducted at gunpoint by a pedophile during a family trip to Michael Jackson's childhood home, then molested in a field, it is claimed.

Oasia Barnes is on trial this week after being accused of kidnapping the 17 year-old girl and her father from the home in Gary, Indiana, before beating her her.

Prosecutors say the 69-year-old led them from the former home of the King of Pop before separating them and forcing the girl to perform a sex act on him in a field.

The horrific incident happened last August when the father and daughter, from New York, decided to stop off in the city to visit the home.

According to The Chicago-Tribune, the teenager, whose identity has not been shared, told the court this week that Barnes had groped her after her forced the two of them into their rental vehicle.

She told the court: 'I was very scared. It was horrifying. It was disgusting', as she told the court as she told the court he forced her to perform a sex act on him.

The father of the girl also gave evidence this week and said that they arrived at the home with around a dozen fellow fans outside of it.

He told the court that Barnes passed him and his daughter, telling them 'don't forget your glove'. The man testified that he 'didn't think anything of it'.

The horrific incident happened last August when the father and daughter decided to stop off in the city to visit the home, seen here

Oasia Barnes, of Gary, Indiana , is on trial this week after being accused of kidnapping the girl and her father from the home before viciously assaulting her

Initially believing it to be a robbery, the man recalled quickly handing over a few hundred dollars

After several minutes, a man that he identified in court as Barnes approached his daughter from behind with a gun and threatened to shoot her.

Initially believing it to be a robbery, the man recalled quickly handing over a few hundred dollars when he says Barnes ordered him to hand over his phone.

Barnes is then said to have led the two back to their rental vehicle by gunpoint, with the father telling a nearby Hispanic family to 'call the cops'.

The man told the court that Barnes ordered them into the car and had the girl sit on his lap in the backseat as he directed the father.

He recalled to the court that it was 'not looking good', as Barnes told him to park near an overgrown alley, the dad said.

The man said that Barnes told him: 'I'm going to borrow her' as he led his daughter out of the vehicle.

He told the court that he considered running the man down as he led his daughter away, pleading with him to not hurt her.

'I won't do her like that', the man recalled Barnes telling him before he tried to press the car's OnStar button for help.

After frantically following after the two on foot, he managed to get the attention of a woman at a neighboring house who he had dial 911.

Michael Jackson, pictured in 2005, was dubbed the 'king of pop' after a dazzling career in music. He died in 2009 aged 50 and himself faced accusations of child sex abuse during his life

The girl also said that she had been forced to hold Barnes hand after the assault and walk down the street with him and pretend to be his girlfriend.

She recalled that he briefly spoke with three people that he appeared to know. The girl said she asked how long she was going to be kept for, Barnes replied six months.

According to the outlet, she told prosecutor Tara Villarreal: 'I'm telling him I can't do this. I have to go to school.'

After hearing police helicopters overhead, she said Barnes bundled her into the rear of a property when he again groped her.

She said she continued to talk to him throughout in the hopes of getting distracted, telling the court: 'I have things Im passionate about, I want to pursue. I need to keep myself alive.'

Shortly after police arrived on the scene and found the two in a basement stairwell, with Barnes then being arrested. Officers at the time said he had a handgun on him.

Barnes was charged with several felonies which includes felony rape and has denied all of the accusations against him.

Indiana court and prison records seen by the outlet indicate that he is a convicted serial rapist, with convictions dating back to the 1970s.

He was released in March 2024 after being imprisoned in 1985 for 70 years after he raped a woman at knifepoint, the outlet reported.

Barnes also served time for a rape in August of 1972 and a battery charge in May of 1978.

Jackson was born in Gary in 1958 and grew up in the home with abusive Svengali father Joe, who was credited with propelling Michael and his other children including Janet, La Toya, Tito and Jermaine to music stardom.

Jackson was dubbed the King of Pop thanks to decades of dazzling music success and is widely-regarded as one of the most talented musicians of all-time.

He died in 2009 aged just 50 and had been accused of sexually abusing multiple underage boys during his career, but never faced any criminal charges.
A group of suspected Iranian terrorists were planning a deadly attack on the Israeli Embassy in London, police believe.

Counter terrorism officers swooped on Saturday as a gang of four Iranian men were allegedly planning an imminent attack, which could have resulted in widespread loss of life if successful.

Security minister Dan Jarvis this week described the arrest of the four alleged plotters, and that of a second Iranian cell suspected of espionage activity, as 'some of the largest counter state threats and counter-terrorism actions we have seen in recent times.'

Mr Jarvis did not name the target but it can now be revealed as the embassy in Kensington, West London, which is already behind 8ft walls and has 24 hour armed guards due to the general threat it faces.

A series of security reviews has been commissioned by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper in the wake of the terror plot, which will likely affect security arrangements at other embassies in the capital.

Mr Jarvis told MPs: 'The investigation relates to a suspected plot to target specific premises. Police officers have been in contact with the affected site to make them aware and provide relevant security advice and support.

'Investigators refused to provide further detail last night about the nature of the attack planned, which is likely to have been state-sponsored.'

The threat was considered so serious that armed special forces teams were drafted in to assist counter terrorism officers carry out raids of properties in Rochdale, Swindon, London, Manchester and Stockport in unprecedented scenes.

The Israeli embassy in London, which was believed to be the target of a group of suspected Iranian terrorists

Pictures of a raid in Rochdale shows three officers dressed in black and two other men dressed in camo gear escorting a suspect out of a property

Undercover police officers also swooped on a suspected Iranian terrorist in Swindon on Saturday after posing as customers in a cafe

Police are currently questioning four Iranian men, aged between 29 and 46, on suspicion of plotting the terrorist attack on the embassy in Kensington, which is just metres away from Kensington Palace.

A fifth man, aged 24, detained under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act, has been bailed.

Pictures of the raid in Rochdale show three officers dressed in black and two other men dressed in camo gear escorting one of the suspects out of a property.

Undercover police officers were also pictured swooping on a suspected Iranian terrorist in Swindon on Saturday after posing as customers in a cafe. The officers were then seen dragging the suspect through the street towards a police van.

Three other Iranian men were also arrested under the National Security Act on the same day, although this was part of a separate operation.

They are now being questioned by police on suspicion of working on behalf of a foreign state, understood to be Iran.

Speaking earlier this week of the security operation, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said the arrests 'reflect some of the biggest counter-state threat and counter-terrorism operations we have seen in recent years'.

Asked about possible links to the Iranian state, she said: 'These are major operations and the ongoing investigation is immensely important, and, of course, it involves Iranian nationals in both investigations.

'But this reflects the complexity of the kinds of challenges to our national security we continue to face.'

Pictured are a group of Counter Terrorism Specialist Firearms Officers outside a home in Rochdale during another raid on Saturday

Pictured: Police forensic officers search a house on May 04, 2025 in Rochdale, England, following a counter terrorism raid

A window in the property in Rochdale that was raided appears to have been smashed. Locals reportedly heard a series of loud explosions before the suspects were detained

Iran has been blamed for a series of attacks on Israeli embassies across Europe in the last year.

Sweden's security service Sapo suggested Iran was involved in two attacks in October when shots were fired at the Israeli embassy in Stockholm, days before two explosions were reported near the Israeli embassy in Copenhagen.

Fredrik Hallstrom, of Sapo, said the targets and methods pointed in the direction of Iran.

Months earlier, gunshots were fired around the Stockholm embassy, which Mossad blamed on a crime group directed by Iran.

The Israeli spy agency also said an organized crime ring in Sweden working on Iran's behest was behind an explosive device found inside the grounds of the same embassy in January.

Last year Mossad claimed Iranian-backed criminals were behind an attack on Israel's embassy in Belgium when two airsoft grenades were thrown at the building in May.

Head of MI5 Sir Ken McCallum recently warned that Iran is plotting attacks at 'an unprecedented pace and scale', with a risk that Iranian state aggression could 'broaden' due to the Middle East conflict.

He highlighted the risk that Iran could try to repurpose its criminal proxies to target Britons if there was further escalation in the Middle East, adding that MI5 was 'powerfully alive to the risk that events in the Middle East directly trigger terrorist action in the UK'.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper (pictured) said the arrests on Saturday 'reflect some of the biggest counter-state threat and counter-terrorism operations we have seen in recent years'

Director General of MI5, the UK's Security Service, Sir Ken McCallum

Mr Jarvis refused on Tuesday to give details of the immigration status of the suspects or say how they got in the country.

In a separate counter terrorism operation on Saturday, police arrested three other Iranian men for alleged offences under the National Security Act.

Although the groups are separate, it was feared that news of police thwarting a suspected Iranian terror cell would spook others suspected of working for the enemy state in the UK.

The dual counter terrorism operations will send a powerful message to Iran, which has backed 20 plots posing a potentially lethal threat to journalists and dissidents living in Britain since January 2022.

In a post on X, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said on Wednesday night: 'We are seeing stories in the media that Iranian nationals are allegedly involved in a supposed plot to target the Israeli embassy in London.

'Iran in no uncertain terms categorically rejects any involvement in such actions and confirms that we have not been informed of any allegations via proper diplomatic channels.

'Iran has urged the UK to engage so that we may assist any probe into credible allegations. Timing and lack of engagement suggest that something is amiss. There is a history of third parties bent on derailing diplomacy and provoking escalation resorting to desperate measures, including false flag operations.

'Iran stands ready to engage to shed light on what has truly transpired, and we reiterate that UK authorities should afford our citizens due process.'

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, who said he was 'disturbed to learn that Iranian citizens have reportedly been arrested by UK security services'

The dual counter-terrorism operations will send a powerful message to Iran, which is said to have backed 20 plots posing a potentially lethal threat to journalists and dissidents living in Britain since January 2022.

In the past year, MI5 investigations into hostile-state threats have risen by almost 50 per cent following a surge in assassination, kidnap, arson and sabotage plots.

As well as being linked to alleged terror plots, Iranian forces have also tried to recruit spies in the British military.

Among them includes Daniel Khalife - a 'hapless' young soldier who was jailed in February for 14 years and three months for espionage.

The 23-year-old was caught spying for Iran before then fleeing prison by clinging to the bottom of a food truck - before again being caught by the authorities.

He claimed to have been on a one-man 'double agent' mission but was labelled an 'attention seeker' by a judge when he was sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court in London.

Commander Dominic Murphy, Head of the Met's Counter Terrorism Command said: 'Any speculation around this investigation could have a negative impact as we work to keep the public safe from potential threats.

'This is a fast-moving counter-terrorism investigation and there are significant operational reasons why we cannot provide further information at this time.

'As soon as possible we will look to share further details and in the meantime we would ask the public to remain vigilant and contact us if you have any concerns.'
The Catholic conclave will again gather today to vote on who will be the new Pope as the priest brother of a TV megastar popped up live on the news to discuss the candidates.

Thick black smoke billowed from the chimney in Rome last night after 133 cardinal-electors who congregated in the Sistine Chapel failed to agree on the next Pontiff.

Voting will continue today with two rounds in the morning and two rounds in the afternoon with Vatican officials saying smoke should be expected around 1pm local time and again at 7pm.

As the voting went on, and with a camera trained on the chimney, viewers of Sky News praised a composed Italian-American Catholic priest who appeared on screen to discuss the crucial decision.

Some admitted Priest Robert Sirico looked oddly-familiar but others, who were fans of his much-loved brother, quickly spotted who he was as he predicted the Conclave could be up to five days due to the number of cardinals and the lack of 'familiarity' with the candidates.

Both men have the same nose and chin, but unlike his late older brother, Rev. Sirico does not have so-called 'angel wings' in his hair.

Father Robert Sirico is the younger sibling of the late Tony Sirico, the actor best known for playing the brilliantly brash and immaculately coiffed Paulie 'Walnuts' Gualtieri in the legendary HBO crime series The Sopranos.

Born in Brooklyn, the Sirico brothers grew up in a traditional Italian-American Catholic household in the East Flatbush and Bensonhurst neighborhoods.

But the siblings took a different path - one into the clergy, the other into organised crime, a spell in Sing Sing prison and then acting, becoming a favourite of Martin Scorsese in Goodfellas and later Sopranos genius David Chase.

Father Robert Sirico was on Sky News in Rome discussing the conclave and has a very famous brother

This photograph shows black smoke rising from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel signalling that cardinals failed to elect a new pope in the first ballot of their conclave in the Vatican on May 7, 2025

Tony had his big break came with Goodfellas in 1990, and later, he was cast in the role that would define him: the hilariously paranoid and fiercely loyal Paulie Walnuts in The Sopranos (above)

133 cardinal-electors gather in the Sistine Chapel in Rome as they consider who will be the next head of the Catholic Church following the death of Pope Francis

133 cardinal-electors enter the Sistine Chapel in solemn procession

There were prayers as the men consider who will be the new pontiff

The Cardinals attended a special service as they consider who will be the next pope

Storm clouds gather over St Peter's Square and St Peter's basilica ahead of the second day of voting

Tony Sirico, who passed away in 2022, lived a life that could have been lifted from the pages of a mob script long before he ever stepped in front of a camera.

Despite their wildly divergent paths  one a beloved screen gangster, the other a devout priest and political thinker  the Sirico brothers remained close.

Robert announced his brother's death in 2022 saying: 'It is with great sadness, but with incredible pride, love and a whole lot of fond memories, that the family of Gennaro Anthony 'Tony' Sirico wishes to inform you of his death on the morning of July 8, 2022.'

He continued: 'I sensed that the end was coming. So as we sat in a private location, I pulled out a Confessional Stole from my pocket. I looked into his eyes and I said, 'How about that confession?'

'My brother agreed and I did one of the most significant things a priest can do for another human being. I absolved him of all of his sins.'

Tony Sirico dropped out of high school, was shot in the leg over a girl as a teenager, and ended up serving in the U.S. Army.

But that wasn't the end of his run-ins with the law - far from it.

Sirico was arrested 28 times on charges ranging from robbery to assault to gun possession.

In 1971, he was convicted on multiple charges including felony weapons possession and spent 20 months in the notorious Sing Sing prison.

It was there that Tony found his calling, of sorts. A visit from an acting troupe made up of ex-cons sparked something in him, and when he left prison, he began hustling for roles in Hollywood.

His early work included blink and you'll miss it appearances in The Godfather: Part II, and bit parts in films like So Fine and The Pick-Up Artist.

But his big break came with Goodfellas in 1990, and later, he was cast in the role that would define him: the hilariously paranoid and fiercely loyal Paulie Walnuts in The Sopranos.

A favorite of directors like Martin Scorsese and Woody Allen, Sirico built a 40-year career playing mobsters, tough guys, and streetwise New Yorkers.

Off-screen, he had two children and even launched his own cologne, Paolo Per Uomo, in 2008. He passed away in 2022, aged 79, after battling dementia.

In stark contrast, Robert Sirico, followed a spiritual and highly intellectual path. Initially stepping away from Catholicism in his youth, Robert explored Pentecostal preaching in Seattle during the 1970s, becoming known for his fiery sermons and progressive views.

Rev. Robert Sirico (middle) on Sky News to discuss the election of a new Pope

A favorite of directors like Martin Scorsese and Woody Allen, Sirico built a 40-year career playing mobsters, tough guys, and streetwise New Yorkers

Actors from left: Tony Sirico, Steven Van Zandt, James Gandolfini, Michael Imperioli & Vincent Pastore in a publicity still for TV series 'The Sopranos', circa 1999

Funeral for Award wining actor Tony Sirico, celebrated by his brother Robert Sirico at the church

He made headlines when he publicly came out as gay and even presided over Colorado's first gay marriage ceremony.

But Robert later returned to the Catholic Church, influenced by the writings of St. Augustine and St. John Henry Newman.

He earned a Master of Divinity from The Catholic University of America in 1987 and was ordained as a Paulist priest two years later.

Robert didn't fade quietly into the pulpit. He founded the Acton Institute, a libertarian think tank promoting free-market principles rooted in Christian theology.

Catholic cardinals sent black smoke signals from the world's most famous chimney above the Sistine Chapel as the first day of conclave ended without a new Pope.

Hailing from 70 different countries, the 133-strong group of cardinals gathered on Wednesday in the Vatican for the centuries old-ritual to elect the 267th pontiff following the death of Pope Francis last month.

Thousands of faithful flocked to St. Peter's Square as they waited for smoke to pour from a narrow flute on the roof of at the end of a day rich in ritual and pageantry.

Groans went up from the crowd as the dark plume came from the burning of the ballot papers.

The cardinals have now retired for the night and will return Thursday morning.

Up to four votes a day can take place from then, two in the morning and two in the afternoon, with white smoke confirming a new pope has been chosen.

It was unlikely that the cardinals would come to a consensus with the first votes, given that previous elections have taken a number of days.

The longest conclave in history was almost three years, when Pope Gregory X was elected.

Faithful react to black smoke rising from the chimney on the Sistine Chapel indicating no decision has been made to elect a new pope

Nuns react at St Peter's Square as black smoke rises from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel signalling that cardinals failed to elect a new pope in the second ballot of their secret conclave at the Vatican, on May 7, 2025

The shortest lasted just 10 hours and ended with the election of Pope Julius II in 1503.

In recent history the next leader of the Catholic Church is usually elected within two or three days.

Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday aged 88, was seen as a liberal leader of the world's 1.2 billion Roman Catholics and many would like to see a similar successor.

There are three UK cardinals taking part in conclave - Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe and Rome-based Cardinal Arthur Roche.

Cardinal Nichols had called on people to pray for himself and other cardinals as they embark on the secret voting process, adding that he feels 'quite intimidated' knowing the world is watching to see who they choose.

The voting cardinals - those aged under 80 who are the only ones eligible to cast a ballot - were urged to 'invoke the help of the Holy Spirit' to help them elect a pope 'whom the Church and humanity need at this difficult and complex turning point in history', said cardinal Giovanni Battista Re.

As the master of ceremonies Diego Ravelli shouted in Latin 'Extra Omnes' (All Out) and the doors of the Sistine chapel were shut, applause broke out from the crowd in front of St Peter's who were watching on giant screens.

To ensure secrecy and no eavesdropping the Sistine Chapel has been swept for bugs and telecommunications antennas within the Vatican were turned off to prevent cyber hacking.

Catholic cardinals sent black smoke signals last night from the Sistine Chapel as the first day of conclave ended without a new pope

Black smoke rises from the chimney on the Sistine Chapel, indicating no decision has been made to elect a new pope, at the Vatican, May 7, 2025

People gather in St. Peter's Square on the first day of the conclave to elect the next pope, Vatican City, 07 May 2025

This photo taken and handout on May 7, 2025 by The Vatican Media shows cardinals during a holy mass for the Election of the Roman Pontiff, prior to the start of the conclave, at St Peter's Basilica in The Vatican

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is a frontrunner this time round and is considered one of the more liberal candidates

Cardinal Turkson, born in Ghana, was the bookies' favourite at one point when Francis was chosen in 2013. He would be the first black pope

Parolin has worked closely with Pope Francis but has upset some with his views on China

From the Eastern bloc, Erdo is a deep conservative and has spoken against divorced or remarried Catholics receiving holy communion

Favourites currently include the Vatican's Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, 70, and cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, 67, from the Philippines.

Francis named 108 of the 133 'princes of the church,' choosing many pastors in his image from far-flung countries like Mongolia, Sweden and Tonga that had never had a cardinal before.

His decision to surpass the usual limit of 120 cardinal electors and include younger ones from the 'global south'  often marginalized countries with lower economic clout  has injected an unusual degree of uncertainty in a process that is always full of mystery and suspense.

Many cardinals hadn't met until last week and lamented they needed more time to get to know one another, raising questions about how long it might take for one man to secure the two-thirds majority, or 89 ballots, necessary to become the 267th pope.

Addressing cardinals in St Peter's Basilica, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re said: 'To pray, by invoking the Holy Spirit, is the only right and proper attitude to take as the cardinal electors prepare to undertake an act of the highest human and ecclesial responsibility and to make a choice of exceptional importance.

'This is a human act for which every personal consideration must be set aside, keeping in mind and heart only the God of Jesus Christ and the good of the Church and of humanity.'

The pontiff - believed to be someone called to be the successor to St Peter, who was the first pope - will need to be a person who can 'awaken the consciences of all and the moral and spiritual energies in today's society, characterised by great technological progress but which tends to forget God', Cardinal Battista Re added.
One of Britain's most notorious sex attackers who targeted more than a dozen victims in 1984 died from a heart attack in prison, an inquest has heard.

Malcolm Fairley, who became known as 'The Fox' for the way he built lairs in his targets' homes to hide before attacking them, carried out a series of sex attacks across Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire.

He was finally caught in September 1984 after sparking one of the largest manhunts in British criminal history.

Fairley was handed six life sentences the following year and has remained behind bars ever since.

However, it has been heard at an inquest at Hull Coroner's Court that 71-year-old was found dead at HMP Hull on May 28, 2024, reports the BBC.

The provisional cause of his death was a myocardial infarction, or heart attack, but assistant coroner Sarah Middleton could not conclude the inquest due to a prison investigation.

Ms Middleton adjourned the inquest for a later date, which is yet to be fixed, as she told the court she wanted to hear evidence of what happened during the night shift at the prison at the time of Fairley's death.

Fairley had been 'dead for quite sometime' before he was found, the court heard.

Malcolm Fairley (pictured) carried out a series of sex attacks across Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire in 1984

Fairley with his head under a blanket being led away by police after being arrested

He was finally caught in September 1984 after sparking one of the largest manhunts in British criminal history

His crimes were carried out in the hot summer of 1984, when national tensions were inflamed amidst the ongoing miners' strike.

Fairley's victims included both men and women, ranging in age from teenagers to pensioners.

He would break into victims' homes, help himself to food and drink and then build a lair out of furniture and blankets.

He would also remove all light bulbs and then wait in the dark, flicking through victims' family photo albums by torchlight before they returned.

At the height of his crimes, there were three attacks in the space of a week.

In a Channel 5 documentary aired last April, The Intruder: He's Watching You, Fairley is heard being asked by Detective Chief Superintendent Brian Prickett, who led the investigation that led to his capture, if he tried to stop.

He replied: 'Well I tried to. Many times. Every time I went I tried.'

Fairley was then asked by another officer: 'Do you still feel you want to do it?'

DCS Brian Prickett (pictured centre), who led the investigation that led to his capture

Fairley leaves Dunstable court under police guard after his arrest

Some of the women who took to arming themselves with guns before Fairley was caught

He said: 'Not really, it's... but I still... get a sexy drive type thing.'

Asked by DCS Prickett about an attack he carried out on an elderly woman, he said: 'Well, I felt disappointed in myself to do it. You know, like it's... it just weren't me.'

Bedfordshire Police ended up with more than 5,000 suspects and terrified residents resorted to sleeping with weapons under their beds, fearing that they might be next during the four-month spree.

Fairley, who wore a mask made from a trouser leg, also committed break-ins and sexual crimes in Milton Keynes, South Yorkshire and his native North East.

He was eventually arrested in at home in Kentish Town, North London, after forensic evidence linked his car to an attack.

At the time of his arrest he had committed 81 offences as 'The Fox'.

He had a string of previous convictions to his name and was the father of three children from his two marriages.

In one break-in, he stole a shotgun and ammunition and later used the weapon in other attacks, including in one where he shot a businessman at point-black range.

The victim had to have his finger amputated.

DCS Prickett added: 'Psychiatrists said that he was rational and that he was normal.

'Well, I never accepted that. As a police officer, you deal with him professionally, but as a human being to human being, you've got complete disgust, you've got almost hatred.

'I don't think I'll ever understand the motivation he had for the attacks he carried out.'

After sentencing Fairley to six life sentences, following his trial at St Albans Crown Court in February 1985, Mr Justice Caulfield said: 'There are degrees of wickedness beyond condemnatory description.

'Your crimes fall within this category. You desecrated and defiled men and women in their own homes.'

On February 27, 1985, the Daily Mail revealed Fairley's mugshot and declared: 'The Fox - evil beyond words.'

Fairley admitted 13 offences - three rapes, an indecent assault on a man and another on a 74-year-old woman, five burglaries and three aggravated burglaries with intent to rape while carrying a firearm.

The Daily Mail's coverage when Fairley was handed six life sentences for his string of attacks

He also asked for 68 other crimes, mostly burglaries, to be considered.

An 18-year-old girl who was among his victim said in the Daily Mail after he was convicted: 'I felt as if there was no one I could turn to and began crying and screaming.

'Memories of that night were always with me, yet no one seemed to realise what was happening inside my head.

'Eventually I could take no more and completely cracked up.'

In a three-hour ordeal, Fairley tried to force the young woman - who he had raped - to carry out sex acts with her 21-year-old boyfriend and 17-year-old brother.
A mother who killed her boyfriend with a foot-long hunting knife through the heart has been jailed for eight and a half years.

Dionne Christie struck Jevin Haig, 21, in the chest with his own 12-inch blade as they struggled in the bedroom of her flat in Falkirk in June 2022.

The mother-of-two had been 12-weeks pregnant with her victims child at the time.

She was initially out on bail and spent some of the time enjoying holidays, including to Tenerife and Paris, before she was locked up following a two-week trial in March.

First-offender Christie was yesterday sentenced via video-link at the High Court in Glasgow.

The 24-year-old had been accused of murder before being convicted of the reduced charge of culpable homicide at the High Court in Stirling.

Jurors concluded she had been acting under provocation at the time.

Christie - who ran her own beauty aesthetics business - appeared emotional as the jail-term was imposed by judge Lady Poole yesterday.

Dionne Christie struck Jevin Haig in the chest with a 12-inch blade

Jurors at the trial in March heard how she had delayed dialling 999 for several minutes after the incident on June 26 three years ago.

She had first gone to ask a neighbour to alert her mother that her friend was hurt, but that no ambulance was needed.

Prosecutors had claimed this showed wicked disregard as to whether her lover lived or died.

Christie had initially blamed Mr Haig, of Moredun, Edinburgh, during the emergency call.

She told the operator: He has come in, he has been trying to start with me.

He has smashed all my house and brought out a knife - a big knife.

He has got a stab mark right in his chest.

Jevin Haig was killed by his girlfriend Dionne Christie, who was convicted of culpable homicide

Christie was asked during the call if Mr Haig had stabbed himself.

She replied: It is while we have been like... he was grabbing me, he had the knife in his pants. Do not know how I have done this.

When police arrived, Christie said Mr Haig had stabbed himself but forensic evidence revealed her DNA and a fingerprint on the knife.

Prosecutor Graeme Jessop KC had stated during the trial that Christie had stabbed Mr Haig in a fit of anger because he no longer had any money as a crime-funded lifestyle was drying up.

In texts the day before he died, Mr Haig told Christie he had been losing out on deals and suggested they should stay in because a hotel they had discussed going to was dead.

Christie - who used the name Designer for messaging - replied back: You know what is dead? You.

She denied the message had been about an intention to kill and instead said the pair had gone on to chat and joke about a social media posting she had made.

Christie also alleged Mr Haig had been trying to cut their unborn baby from her womb at the time of the attack and claimed she did not know how he ended up being fatally injured.

However, jurors heard claims the mother had previously been violent towards him including stabbing him in the leg and slashing his designer jacket.

Ian Duguid KC, defending, yesterday told the court: As far as remorse and regret, these are both sentiments and emotions expressed by this young lady.

Sentencing, Lady Poole said it appeared Mr Haig had not led a blameless life, but that did not excuse Christie killing him.

The judge added: Messages showed he cared for you and he was happy going for a scan appointment with you.

It was clear at the trial how upset his family are at his death.

Victim impact statements describe the deep grief and lasting impact the loss has had on them. Your actions ended his life early.
A South Carolina man currently embroiled in an ongoing court battle exploded at environmental officials during arguments, insisting that the man-made seawall outside his oceanfront mansion is entirely legal.

Rom Reddy, of Isle of Palms, is locked in a heated court battle over a $289,000 fine for an unauthorized seawall he built behind his beachfront property, with The South Carolina of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) arguing it violates coastal protection laws, The State reported.

On Tuesday, sporting a snazzy black suit and distinguished glasses, Reddy represented himself in court - a rare move for an administrative law case.

Reddy argued that he is nothing short of a law-abiding citizen, insisting he was unfairly targeted by the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services, which he claims is using regulation and enforcement to take his property.

'I understand a little bit more than the unelected bureaucrats,' Reddy said in court, according to The State.

'This is an unusual situation where we sit here with the citizens, my beautiful wife and myself... against the police power to the state and a taxpayer funded charity.'

In February, the DHEC filed a temporary restraining order and petition for injunctive relief - a court order requiring a party to do or refrain from doing a specific action - against Reddy, WCBD News reported.

The department subsequently issued cease-and-desist orders to Reddy, arguing that the seawall is located in a critical area.

A South Carolina man currently embroiled in an ongoing court battle exploded at environmental officials during arguments, insisting that the man-made seawall outside his oceanfront mansion is entirely legal

Rom Reddy (pictured in court), of Isle of Palms, is locked in a heated court battle over a $289,000 fine for an unauthorized seawall he built behind his beachfront property, with The South Carolina of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) arguing it violates coastal protection laws

Reddy argued that he is nothing short of a law-abiding citizen, insisting he was unfairly targeted by the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services, which he claims is using regulation and enforcement to take his property

Reddy, a steadfast supporter of President Donald Trump, claimed that either way, he was being treated unfairly - specifically in articles written by 'the fake news'

Now, with the court battle intensifying, the Reddy case has drawn in close scrutiny, as it could challenge state efforts to enforce beach protection laws established decades ago - all with the purpose of combating the threat of sea level rise.

Rising sea levels, driven by climate change, have become a growing issue along South Carolina's coast, with Reddy's case sparking urgent debates over the impact of seawalls.

South Carolina ultimately banned seawalls along the beach 36 years ago, citing their overall role in worsening erosion and obstructing public access to the shoreline.

Reddy, however, argues that the state's actions infringe upon his property rights.

He claimed that the state law itself allowed him to develop construction on that particular section of the beach. Further, he argued that if he is denied the use of his land due to the state's restrictions, he should be compensated for that loss.

At times, the anti-government regulation advocate waved his arms and pointed at the court, emphasizing his point with dramatic flare.

'What they are doing is a descent into a total tyranny,' Reddy claimed during court.

However, lawyers for the Department of Environmental Services doubled down, asserting that the issue is clear as day: Reddy built a seawall on his property, a practice that has been illegal in South Carolina for over three decades.

Additionally, the state agency said that Reddy ignored repeated warnings not to build on the beach, arguing that judicial intervention is necessary to stop his unauthorized actions in the critical area.

Reddy was accused of secretly piling clay, rocks and concrete on the beach outside his luxury home - then backing it all up with a seawall, despite a decades-old ban

Reddy, who defended himself in court, claimed that the state law itself allowed him to develop construction on that particular section of the beach. Further, he argued that if he is denied the use of his land due to the state's restrictions, he should be compensated for that loss

In February, the DHEC filed a temporary restraining order and petition for injunctive relief - a court order requiring a party to do or refrain from doing a specific action - against Reddy

South Carolina ultimately banned seawalls along the beach 36 years ago, citing their overall role in worsening erosion and obstructing public access to the shoreline. Reddy, however, argues that the state's actions infringe upon his property rights

'We're here today about a total disregard of the law,' Environmental Services lawyer Sallie Phelan said in her opening remarks, according to The State.

'We are here about two seawalls the Reddy's constructed on the beach at Isle of Palms to protect their yard, despite the department's repeated warning that it was not authorized and the department believed it to be a violation of the South Carolina coastal tidelands and wetlands law.'

Battling ocean waves and state officials, Phelan accused Reddy of secretly piling clay, rocks and concrete on the beach outside his luxury home - then backing it all up with a seawall, despite a decades-old ban.

Photos shown in court revealed the ocean breaching his property, flooding turf-covered yards that ultimately smashed through an aging barrier.

Simply put, state regulators say the wall breaks the law. Reddy says the state has no authority over that decision.

At the very heart of the drama lies this question: Where does South Carolina's beachfront control really end?

While in court, Reddy asked detailed questions regarding the beach protection law as he argued that a recent change in those laws made the work he constructed at his home entirely legal.

Last month, a judge agreed that the state had control over the entire beach during a preliminary ruling, according to The State. In this case, the state argued a similar point - the law gives them authority to protect all of the sandy beach, not just the areas with building restriction lines.

The state agency said that Reddy ignored repeated warnings not to build on the beach, arguing that judicial intervention is necessary to stop his unauthorized actions in the critical area

Last month, a judge agreed that the state had control over the entire beach during a preliminary ruling, according to The State. In this case, the state argued a similar point - the law gives them authority to protect all of the sandy beach, not just the areas with building restriction lines

Lawyers for the Department of Environmental Services doubled down, asserting that the issue is clear as day: Reddy built a seawall on his property, a practice that has been illegal in South Carolina for over three decades

The judge isn't expected to decide whether Reddy must cough up the $289,000 fine - or rip out his controversial seawall - until the court battle wraps up

Reddy, a steadfast supporter of President Donald Trump, claimed that either way, he was being treated unfairly - specifically in articles written by 'the fake news'.

The multimillionaire media mogul has since been vocal on X, expressing his frustrations with what he calls government 'tyranny'.

Earlier this week, Reddy announced on his platform that he was prepared to take on the fight.

'The unelected agency state is trying to apply a new interpretation of the regulation on property rights that would give them unlimited property rights that can vary by homeowner, depending on their judgement,' he wrote on X, referencing the SC Department of Environmental Services' coastal bureau.

In another post, Reddy wrote: 'we kneel to God, not government'.

'We're going to take back what belongs to us - the money and the power,' said another.

The court proceedings are expected to last throughout the week.

The judge isn't expected to decide whether Reddy must cough up the $289,000 fine - or rip out his controversial seawall - until the court battle wraps up.
An eight-year-old Georgia boy was killed on his birthday after a pickup truck slammed into him.

Camden Poole died following a collision between the vehicle and his family's Hyundai on Monday, FOX 8 Live reports.

The youngster had been out celebrating his birthday with his parents when the Augusta crash took place.

All three were taken to the hospital where Camden later succumbed to his injuries.

Authorities identified the driver of the pickup truck as Lee E. Jones, 49, and charged him with second degree homicide by vehicle and failing to yield while turning left.

The crash took place at around 1:04pm between Peach Orchard Road and Tobacco Road.

Jones, of Waynesboro, told investigators that he was tailing a car ahead of him turning left on a green light.

At the same time, Camden's mom was driving in the opposite direction and also attempted to turn left.

Camden Poole was killed on his birthday after a pickup truck slammed into him

Poole died following a collision between the vehicle and his family's Hyundai on Monday, his eighth birthday

She told the police that her light changed to yellow as she approached the intersection, but that she had time to make it.

The collision took place as the pickup truck tried to turn, police said adding that Jones is at fault for failure to yield when turning left.

Jones was booked into Charles B. Webster Detention Center and is currently listed as an inmate in the Richmond County Sheriff's Office system.

The Augusta Press reports that Jones has a litany of driving offences against his name, including a previous DUI convictions.

He also has other driving-related charges for reckless driving, driving while license suspended and speeding.

The tragedy has left Camden's parents devastated.

'I am heart broken and honestly have no words at this time. I appreciate all of the loving words for my baby,' his mom Kayla Poole wrote.

'He was truly the sweetest boy and always put a smile on everyone's face. He was my best friend and such a mama's boy.

Authorities identified the driver of the pickup truck as 49-year-old Lee E. Jones, who has been charged over the death

Camden was taken to the hospital along with his mom Kayla and her boyfriend Clay, the other occupants of the car, where the youngster succumbed to his injuries

'I cant wait to see you again one day beautiful boy. You're the reason I do what I do and I'm going to keep striving for you knowing you're looking down on me cheering me on.'

Camden's grandmother also set up a GoFundMe to support funeral costs.

'On May 5th our world was torn apart and my family lost our beloved Camden,' Monica Poole wrote.

'My daughter Kayla, boyfriend Clay and my grandson was in a horrible car accident.

'Unfortunately we lost her son Camden on his 8th birthday and our lives have been changed forever.'

Camden's loss was also mourned by Hephzibah Elementary School.

'The students and staff of Hephzibah Elementary School experienced a tragedy with the death of one of our second-grade students. All of us are grieving this tragic loss,' Principal Dr. Josh Workman wrote to parents.

'Your child may have a special need at this time for your comfort and support; please try to be available to listen to them,' Workman added.

'This is a very difficult time for all of us. We want to be sensitive to the needs of your children.'
Nigel Farage is on course to help hand John Swinney another five years in government - with Reform UK as the biggest opposition party.

A bombshell new poll yesterday revealed Reform has surged into second place with one year to go until the Holyrood elections and is now projected to secure 21 seats.

The rise in support for Reform largely comes at the expense of other pro-Union parties - and could lead to the SNP and Greens securing a pro-independence majority.

The new poll was published as party leaders marked one year to go until the Holyrood elections.

Scottish Tory leader Russell Findlay yesterday claimed John Swinney is thrilled by the rise of Mr Farages party - and that the Reform UK leader would gladly gift the SNP another five years.

He also said that the result would be catastrophic for Scotland and put independence back on the table - as Mr Swinney claimed a majority of MSPs supporting separation would be a mandate for another referendum.

Speaking at a Scottish Tory event in Edinburgh, Mr Findlay said: If the SNP win next year, I worry for Scotland. Our country will again be divided by nationalism, the base politics of populism.

That is why every single day, my party stands up to them as weve done for 18 years. But not everybody understands this, not everyone is worried as I am about an SNP win.

Nigel Farage's Reform party is projected to win 21 seats at the next Holyrood elections

Reform splitting the unionist vote may work to SNP leader John Swinney's advantage

Nigel Farage isnt worried. Hes said so himself, he said, and this is a direct quote, hes not that worried about the SNP. Nigel Farage also says he would rather put the SNP into power at Holyrood than a pro-UK party.

He would gladly gift the SNP another five years in power.

He said Mr Swinney is thrilled by Reform and wants to help them, and claimed he publicly pretends to despise the party when he actually adores them because the SNP always promote a political bogeyman instead of doing the hard work of good governance.

Mr Findlay said: When I think about next year, my first thought is not what will happen to my party, its what will happen to my country if Nigel Farage hands John Swinney another five years in power.

He pledged to never back Mr Swinney or an SNP government, and added: Im here to get rid of the SNP for the good of my country, Nigel Farage is happy to let them win for the good of his party.

The Survation poll of 1,020 Scots for True North, carried out over May 2-5, puts the SNP ahead on the constituency vote with 33 per cent, followed by Reform and Labour in second place on 19 per cent, then the Conservatives and Lib Dems on 11 per cent.

On the regional list, the SNP is on 29 per cent, Reform on 20 per cent, Labour 18 per cent, the Conservatives on 12 per cent, Lib Dems 10 per cent, Greens 9 per cent and Alba 3 per cent.

According to a projection by pollster Sir John Curtice, the result would mean the SNP would secure 58 seats, with Reform on 21, Labour 18, Conservatives 13, Lib Dems 10, and Greens eight.

Asked what the impact would be of Mr Swinney securing another five years with a pro-independence majority and Reform as the biggest opposition party, Mr Findlay said: Inevitably, independence would be back on the table - not that it was ever really off the table. That would continue to dominate.

He said the prospect fills me with dread and would be catastrophic for Scotland.

He refused to say whether he would stand down if his party finishes below Reform. When asked if he would debate Mr Farage, Mr Findlay said: If Nigel Farage knows where Scotland is he knows where to find me.

At another event yesterday to mark 12 months to the election, Mr Swinney claimed the Labour government is dancing to Farages tune on immigration, and said: At Westminster, Nigel Farage may not be in office - but he is very much in power.

He said the SNP will never do any deals with Farage and that only the SNP will confront Farage and defeat Farage.

He later claimed Mr Farages politics would push more Scots towards independence, saying he is a different kettle of fish to Tory leaders like Boris Johnson and the antithesis of kindness.

The SNP leader also claimed that a democratic majority of pro-independence MSPs at Holyrood following the next election should result in another referendum.

Thomas Kerr, Reform councillor for Shettleston, said: As all political parties gear up towards Holyrood 2026, Reform UK does so with a spring in our step and passion in our hearts.

We know Scotland is broken and those SNP and Labour politicians who broke it will be held accountable next year. Theres a lot of ground to cover, a lot of scrutiny to come but Reform UK is ready for the challenge ahead.

To our opponents, we say, bring it. Scotland badly needs real fundamental change and only Reform UK will fix the mess the mainstream establishment parties have created.

As todays Survation poll shows, Reform UK is the only political party in Scotland with momentum and now the clear opposition to this rotten SNP Government.
No one believed Jonathan Oddi when he bizarrely told Florida cops he that was Sean 'Diddy' Combs' sex slave in 2018.

But after an exclusive story from Daily Mail this week, Oddi is finally 'getting his vindication,' according to his estranged wife.

'This 100 % gives a lot of truth and legitimacy to everything he was speaking about,' said Oddi's former wife Tonia Troutwine. It definitely confirms the relationship and closeness between them.

'Johnny was a smart guy and he would've picked up on things.

'And the fact that P. Diddy even signed an agreement with him and didn't just write him off - that tells me that P. Diddy had some level of respect for him.

Oddi is no hero.

Oddi's ex believes his mental breakdown and the 2018 shooting directly correlates to his relationship with Diddy

In May 2018, he opened fire in Trump Doral Miami. He was taken down by police then interrogated about his motives.

It was then that he revealed his links to Diddy and his ex, Cassie Ventura, who is expected to testify at his sex trafficking trial in New York City.

'I had sex with Cassie [Ventura] and Sean [Combs]. Basically, he would masturbate and tell me what to do to Cassie. I was like a sex slave.

'For them, that's what I was,' depleted Oddi told police after being arrested following a shootout at the Florida hotel.

Daily Mail confirmed Oddi did know Diddy - and was guarding a secret so scandalous that the rapper asked him to sign an NDA agreement to protect it.

The full story is told by Troutwine here.

Oddi's ex-wife tells Daily Mail she had no idea where his money came from when they divorced. He told police it was from a $5million settlement he received from Diddy

In May 2018, Oddi entered Trump National Doral Miami with a gun. He was shot by police after opening fire

Oddi claimed he was a 'sex slave' for Diddy, and was forced by the rapper into acts with his ex Cassie Ventura

Diddy, meanwhile, is preparing for the fight of his life in a federal courtroom in Manhattan.

Jury selection is still underway and expected to be completed this week.

The rapper has put his best preppy foot forward, showing up to court every day in a crewneck sweater and polo shirt.

He's been attempting to bond with the jurors, nodding and smiling their way at times, acquiescing at others.

He maintains that all the sex he's accused of forcing was in fact consensual - and that he is being unfairly vilified for things that happened willingly years ago.

Opening statements are due to begin on Monday, May 12.

For the biggest updates direct from court, search for The Trial of Diddy wherever you get your podcasts now.
Trump has officially terminated $2.2 billion in taxpayer funds to Harvard University after ordering a review of the school's federal financing.

A letter sent from a Trump National Institutes of Health (NIH) official to Harvard University President Alan Garber on Tuesday notified the administrator that the federal grants flowing to the college for research have been canceled.

It comes days after the administration announced a crackdown on the university after allowing anti-Semitic protests and violence on campus.

Harvard fired back with a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration's funding freeze.

The Daily Mail exclusively obtained the letter from NIH to Harvard stating that taxpayer funds must be 'carefully' used to 'benefit the American people and improve their quality of life.'

'Your project does not satisfy these criteria,' the letter to Garber continues.

The face value of the total grants terminated comes to $2.2 billion, a White House official confirmed.

'President Trump means what he says,' the official told the Daily Mail. 'Harvard has a $53 billion endowment that they're free to use.'

The NIH, under the direction of President Donald Trump, sent a letter to Harvard President Alan Gerber to notify the university that it's funding from the agency has been terminated

The letter from the Trump administration to the Massachusetts school confirms the billions in NIH funding for the university will be canceled. Though the university may appeal the decision, according to the letter.

The letter specifically condemned the school for alleged race discrimination.

It also accuses the Ivy League of allowing anti-Semitism to fester on campus unabated, despite faculty awareness of the 'widespread abuse of Jewish and Israeli students.'

Harvard University President Alan Garber

'As relevant to NIHs policies, NIH understands that Harvard continues to engage in race discrimination including in its admissions process, and in other areas of student life, such as access to the Law Review at Harvard Law School,' the letter continued.

'Supporting research in such an environment is plainly inconsistent with NIHs priorities.'

On Monday, Education Secretary Linda McMahon wrote a letter to the university saying it should not apply for any more federal cash.

'This letter is to inform you that Harvard should no longer seek grants from the federal government, since none will be provided,' she wrote.

The university, along with other elite institutions, have been hotbeds for antisemitic and anti-Israel protests. Some pro-Palestinian Harvard student activists received assault and battery charges for confronting pro-Israel demonstrators, for example.

In its lawsuit challenging the funding freeze, Harvard said the move was 'arbitrary and capricious' and violated its First Amendment rights.

'The Government has not  and cannot  identify any rational connection between antisemitism concerns and the medical, scientific, technological, and other research it has frozen,' the lawsuit, filed in Boston federal court, stated.

Attorneys representing Harvard noted the government has not acknowledged 'the significant consequences that the indefinite freeze of billions of dollars in federal research funding will have on Harvard's research programs, the beneficiaries of that research, and the national interest in furthering American innovation and progress.'

Graduating students hold Palestinian flags and chant as they walk out in protest over the 13 students who have been barred from graduating due to protest activities, during commencement in Harvard Yard, at Harvard University, in Cambridge, Mass., Thursday, May 23, 2024

President Trump halted funding after the storied institution vowed to defy his administration's demands to limit student activism on campus

In a letter to Harvard earlier this month, the Trump administration had called for broad government and leadership reforms at the university as well as changes to its admissions policies.

The letter from the NIH to Garber sent Tuesday claims that Harvard did not achieve these reforms.

Harvard President Alan Garber initially said the university would not bend to the demands.

'The consequences of the governments overreach will be severe and long-lasting,' Garber said in a statement last month.

'Research that the government has put in jeopardy includes efforts to improve the prospects of children who survive cancer, to understand at the molecular level how cancer spreads throughout the body, to predict the spread of infectious disease outbreaks, and to ease the pain of soldiers wounded on the battlefield.'

He noted that the victims aren't necessarily the researches and Harvard students - they will be 'future patients and their loved ones who will suffer the heartbreak of illnesses that might have been prevented or treated more effectively.'
A severed head has been found after an axe attack at a university in Poland, according to reports.

Police said on Wednesday officers had arrested a 22-year-old Polish man after he allegedly killed one person with an axe at Warsaw University.

Another victim was left fighting for their life and raced to hospital after the horror attack, described as a 'huge tragedy' by the university.

The man reportedly walked onto the campus at around 5.40pm local time while brandishing an axe.

Private broadcaster Polsat News reported that a woman's severed head and an axe had been found at the university.

A spokesperson for the district prosecutors said that a female administrative employee of the university had been killed at the scene and a security guard was injured and was taken to hospital in critical condition.

They declined to comment on whether a severed head had been found.

He said that the attacker had entered an auditorium at the university.

Police said on Wednesday they had arrested a 22-year-old Polish man after he allegedly killed one person with an axe at Warsaw University

Polish police secure an area at the Warsaw University campus after an attack with an axe, in Warsaw

Private broadcaster Polsat News reported that a woman's severed head and an axe had been found at the university

The man reportedly walked onto the campus at around 5.40pm local time on Wednesday while brandishing an axe

A spokesperson for the district prosecutors said that a female administrative employee of the university had been killed at the scene

They added that a security guard was injured and was taken to hospital in critical condition.

In a statement ton X (formerly Twitter) Warsaw Police said: 'Police have detained a man who entered the University of Warsaw campus. One person died, another was taken to hospital with injuries.'

The Rector of the University of Warsaw said in a statement that May 8 would be a day of mourning at the institution, calling the attack a 'huge tragedy'.

'We express our great sorrow and sympathy to the family and loved ones,' the statement read.

In a statement, the University of Warsaw said: 'Ladies and Gentlemen, today in the afternoon the University of Warsaw Community was struck by a huge tragedy.

'Our colleague, a UW employee, was brutally murdered.

'The perpetrator was arrested. We express our great sorrow and sympathy to the family and loved ones.

'A university guard was also seriously injured. Due to the current situation, I am declaring tomorrow, May 8, 2025, a day of mourning at the University of Warsaw.

'On behalf of the entire University of Warsaw community. Rector and College of Rectors of the University of Warsaw.'
Nuclear war with India could break out 'at any time', Pakistan's defence minister has said, as fears of tit-for-tat bloodshed continue to grow.

Speaking to Pakistani TV channel Geo News, the country's defence minister Khawaja Asif said late on Wednesday: 'If they [India] impose an all-out war on the region and if such dangers arise in which there is a stand-off, then at any time a nuclear war can break out.'

He added: 'If they aggravate this then if a chance of war arises in which there is a sign of nuclear option being used on both sides, then the responsibility for that will be on India.'

The country's prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif, said meanwhile that Islamabad would 'avenge each drop of the blood of these martyrs', amid reports 31 civilians had been killed by Indian strikes and artillery firing along the border. New Delhi has not responded to the claims.

Pakistan has vowed to strike back against India, warning it reserves the right to respond to overnight missile strikes at a 'time, place and manner of its choosing'.

Islamabad also deemed India's assault an 'act of war' that it claims deliberately targeted civilian areas - an allegation roundly denied by New Delhi.

India's government said that 13 civilians had been killed by Pakistani fire in what it called 'ceasefire violations' along their de facto border since Wednesday. Both sides exchanged gunfire overnight in Kashmir.

India told foreign envoys in New Delhi that 'if Pakistan responds, India will respond,' sparking fears of a larger military conflict in one of the world's most dangerous - and most populated - nuclear flash-point regions.

Their overnight attack on Wednesday was, in turn, said to be in response to a massacre of civilians at a beauty spot in the Indian section of the disputed Kashmir region last month.

A Pakistan Army soldier stands guard at the entrance as smoke rises from the Bilal Mosque, after it was hit by an Indian strike in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, May 7

A girl who lives in a village near the Line of Control between India and Pakistan, and was wounded during shelling by Pakistan is treated at a hospital in Uri, Indian controlled Kashmir, Wednesday, May 7, 2025

A view of the site of an Indian missile strike near Bahawalpur, Punjab province, Pakistan, 07 May 2025. India stated that it conducted military strikes on nine sites in Pakistan in retaliation for a deadly militant attack on tourists in Kashmir

India had blamed Pakistan for sponsoring the militants behind the slaughter  but said Wednesday's missiles were targeted at terrorist infrastructure, rather than state sites.

As most world leaders, including Sir Keir Starmer, called for peace, former Conservative premier Rishi Sunak, born in Britain to parents of Indian descent, and himself a Hindu, posted on X: 'India is justified in striking terrorist infrastructure. There can be no impunity for terrorists.'

While India has a declared policy of only using nuclear in response to an attack, Pakistan is understood to be willing to use its warheads tactically on the battlefield to deter a conventional assault.

Several wars have already been fought over Muslim-majority Kashmir since the departure of Britain in 1947  when the state's Hindu Maharaja chose to be part of India. Kashmir remains divided along a hotly disputed border line.

As Pakistan moved tanks near Kashmir on Wednesday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the armed forces had been authorised to undertake 'corresponding actions'.

Residents living around the de facto border fled yesterday after India launched attacks on what it said was nine 'terror camps' inside Pakistan overnight.

Both nuclear-armed countries subsequently exchanged artillery fire. Pakistan said five were killed in shelling near the Line of Control, and India said at least seven were killed their side.

As the smoke subsided, the Indian army this morning said it had been proportionate in its actions, 'focused, measured and non-escalatory'.

But Pakistan's National Security Committee, chaired by the prime minister, said the strikes had been carried out on a 'false pretext' of the 'imaginary terrorist camps'.

Residents living around the de facto border fled yesterday after India launched attacks on what it said was nine 'terror camps' inside Pakistan overnight

Tanks are transported on a road in Muridke near Lahore, Pakistan, May 7, 2025

No military facilities were targeted in the strikes

India says it was attacking bases used by those it blames for an attack on the Indian-run side of Kashmir last month - the worst massacre of civilians in India since 2008.

Commenting on the conflict, US President Donald Trump told reporters at the Oval Office on Wednesday: 'I know both very well. I want to see them work it out'.

'I want to see them stop'.

'If I can do anything to help, I will be there', the president added.

Fears of a full-blown conflict between the two nuclear powers continue to escalate, with Indian prime minister Narendra Modi yesterday cancelling plans to visit Europe.

The escalation comes at a fragile moment for Pakistan's $350 billion economy, which recently emerged from an economic crisis with the government trying to shore up finances and make progress on the $7 billion International Monetary Fund loan programme of 2024.

Pakistan said that six locations were hit in strikes in the early hours of Wednesday, adding that it had shot down five Indian jets and a drone. New Delhi has not commented on the claims.

Fighter jets roared through the skies over the Himalayan territory this morning and explosions could be heard near the 'Line of Control' in a strike that lasted 25 minutes.

Survivors surveyed the aftermath of the destruction and gathered shredded belongings as senior officials on both sides continued to beat their chests.

'There were terrible sounds at night, there was panic among the people,' said Muhammed Salman, who lives in Muzzaffarabad, the largest city in the region.

Several houses were damaged in an attack that half collapsed a mosque and the neighbouring school was closed on Wednesday.

'The children are very scared. We couldn't leave our place during the night but now we are moving to the house of our relatives,' said 52-year-old mother Jamila Bibi.

Indian missiles hit six locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and in the country's eastern Punjab province, killing at least 26 people, including women and children, said Pakistan's military spokesperson, Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif.

Islamabad said a three-year-old child was among eight civilians killed in the strikes.

Sharif added that Indian jets also damaged infrastructure at a dam in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, calling it a violation of international norms.

The were expected and, according to its army, targeted 'terrorist sites'. Pakistan has rejected the claim.

The Indian assault - dubbed 'Operation Sindoor' - was said to have targeted nine 'terrorist camps' in 'Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir'.

Pakistan said that India had struck civilians, killing children, and responded with artillery and mortar fire into Indian-administered Kashmir.

Shaina Nana Chudasama, a former spokesperson for the ruling party in India, the BJP, claimed that 'no civilians' had been harmed by the strikes, despite reports to the contrary.

India said it had evidence of further 'impending' attacks, and was acting to 'deter' militantism

Your browser does not support iframes.

Debris of an aircraft lies in the compound of a mosque at Pampore in Pulwama district of Indian controlled Kashmir, Wednesday, May 7, 2025

A part of an aircraft bearing French language writing is seen on the ground in Wuyan near Indian-administered Kashmir's main city of Srinagar on May 7, 2025

Pakistan moves tanks along its highways early on Wednesday after the overnight clashes

India fired missiles at Pakistani territory early on May 7, killing several people, according to Pakistan, which said it had begun retaliating in a major escalation

Pakistan vowed to respond to the missile strikes, maintaining that the 'terror camps' were an Indian fabrication.

'Pakistan has every right to give a robust response to this act of war imposed by India, and a strong response is indeed being given,' Prime Minister Sharif said on Wednesday.

He said the 'deceitful enemy has carried out cowardly attacks at five locations in Pakistan' and that his country would retaliate.

The armed forces later said they had been 'fully authorised' to carry out 'corresponding actions' in response to the strikes overnight.

Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif echoed the sentiment, telling AFP the retaliation had 'already started', after the military earlier said it would respond 'at a time and place of its own choosing'.

Indian media cited officials in saying that seven people, including a woman and two children, had been killed and 38 injured in strikes into Indian territory from Pakistan.

The figure was later updated to 12.

The BBC said it was able to confirm that at least 10 civilians had died and 32 had been injured in Indian-administered Kashmir following Pakistani artillery shelling.

'The firing was particularly intense in Poonch and Mehandar regions,' the broadcaster reported, citing residents.

Homes and shops in the northernmost regions of India were reported to have been badly damaged.

Pakistan was said to have 'pounded dozens of forward villages with artillery and mortar shelling along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir'.

India's army accused Pakistan of 'indiscriminate' firing across the Line of Control (LoC), the de facto border in Kashmir, with bursts of flame as shells landed, AFP reporters saw.

People participate the funeral ceremony of those who were killed in India's attack on Muridke, near Lahore, Pakistan, on May 7

A general view of a damaged structure in the Kotli district of Pakistan-administered Kashmir on May 7, 2025

Locals stand on the debris of destroyed structures at the Government Health and Educational complex in Muridke about 30 kilometres from Lahore, on May 7, 2025

This handout photograph released by the Pakistan's Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) on May 7, 2025 shows paramedics giving treatment to an injured man at a hospital in Bahawalpur, Punjab province, following strikes in Pakistan

Local residents and members of the media examine a building damaged by a suspected Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan controlled Kashmir, in Wednesday, May 7

India yesterday accused Pakistan of 'again violating' a ceasefire agreement by 'firing artillery in Bhimber Gali in Poonch- Rajauri area'.

The army 'is responding appropriately in a calibrated manner,' it added.

A history of the India-Pakistan conflict After 300 years in India, Britain recognised it was no longer logistically possible to maintain its foothold in the subcontinent in 1947. Independence movements - sometimes violent - were growing, Britain was reeling from the cost of the Second World War, and the new Labour government saw a lack of majority support on the ground. The British withdrawal from India was quite sudden, partitioning the area into two independent nation states drawn along religious lines: a Hindu-majority India and a Muslim-majority Pakistan. Regions were not absolutely divided along clear lines and huge migrations began in both directions; millions of Muslims trekked West to Pakistan, and millions of Hindus and Sikhs headed to India. Hundreds of thousands did not make the journey. Within months, conflicts erupted over Kashmir, a mountainous and strategic location with disputed borders, with both religious significance and essential for supporting huge populations with access to water from the Himalayas. The United Nations brokered a ceasefire that split the region, but both newly formed nations continued to claim it in full. India and Pakistan fought in 1965, when Pakistani forces crossed into Indian-administered Kashmir. Tensions boiled over again in 1971, with India supporting independence forces in East Pakistan. Ultimately, this led to the creation of an independent Bangladesh. And then in 1999, Pakistani troops crossed back into Indian-administered Kashmir. Nationalist and independence movements still exist in the contested territory, stoking tensions between the two neighbouring nuclear powers. India launched strikes in 2016 and 2019 in response to 'terror attacks', prompting responses in kind from Pakistan. Advertisement

India has maintained its position that it was striking terrorist camps in the wake of a massacre in Indian-administered Kashmir in April.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said on Wednesday that India had intelligence suggesting that 'further attacks' were 'impending' before they took action.

'Our intelligence monitoring of Pakistan-based terrorist modules indicated that further attacks against India were impending,' he said in a briefing on the operation on Wednesday.

'There was thus a compulsion both to deter and to pre-empt.'

Misri blamed last month's attack in Indian-administered Kashmir on 'Pakistani and Pakistan-trained terrorists', the BBC reports.

He said it was carried out by The Resistance Front, which he claimed was a front for Pakistani Indian-proscribed terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Misri said that investigations into the April 22 attack had revealed the 'communication nodes of terrorists in and to Pakistan'.

He argued that 'the features' of the attack on civilians 'also tie in with Pakistan's long track record of perpetrating cross-border terror in India'.

The crisis was triggered by the militant attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir, which left 26 people dead, mainly Hindu men, in the tourist hotspot of Pahalgam.

Nobody has claimed the attack but New Delhi said the gunmen were from Pakistan-based militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba, a UN-designated terror organisation with a history of carrying out attacks on Indian soil.

The group has long been rumoured to have murky links to the Pakistani military establishment - which Islamabad denies.

Hindu-majority India accuses Islamic Pakistan of funding and encouraging militancy in Kashmir, the Himalayan region both nations claim in full but rule in part.

The shooting, which Indian authorities believe was carried out by Pakistani assailants, prompted a flurry of military and diplomatic action as both sides engaged in exchanges of fire along the 'Line of Control'.

India launched naval drills, test-fired several long-range missile systems and suspended a key treaty that ensures India supplies Pakistan with water from the Indus River, a provision that is crucial for Pakistan's water supply and agricultural economy.

Pakistan, which has denied any involvement in the attack, deployed its air force to close its airspace to Indian airlines and has mobilised its army.

India identified two of the three April 22 attackers as 'terrorists' from Pakistan waging a violent revolt in the Indian-administered but Muslim-majority part of Kashmir.

The majority of the dead were Hindu tourists from India, with reports from witnesses and survivors claiming the gunmen were ordering civilians to recite Islamic prayers and shooting those who were unable to do so.

A Pakistani militant group known as The Resistance Front (TRF) claimed responsibility in the wake of the attack, only to rescind the statement days later and blame the initial claim on a communications breach.

New Delhi said the gunmen were from Pakistan-based militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba, a UN designated terror group long rumoured to have links with the Pakistani military establishment. Islamabad denies to link.

LeT's main objective is to merge the whole of Kashmir with Pakistan.

Dr. Mohammad Faisal, Pakistan's High Commissioner to the UK has blasted foreign powers for not intervening sooner to cool tensions between India and Pakistan.

He accused India of attacking civilians and said that retaliation 'should' happen.

He told the Today Programme: 'During the night there were multiple attacks on Pakistan and we have been alerting the world of this eventuality for the last 15 days or so.

Workers paint a red cross symbol over the roof of a hospital as a preventive measure amid the ongoing border tensions, in Srinagar on May 7, 2025

Indian school students take part in a mock drill at Rajkiya Sarvodaya Vidyalaya in New Delhi, India, May 7 2025

Students take part in an emergency mock drill as part of the nationwide civil defence mock drill at a school in New Delhi on May 7, 2025, as border tensions surge

'I have been urging all the international community to intervene, to escalate the situation, to improve the relations. Sadly nothing much has happened.

'Yesterday Indian attacks have led to 26 deaths of civilians, which includes women and children, young girls, and 46 injured.

'There is a lot of anger in Pakistan. We have shot down some five planes, three Raphales and Su-30s and two or three drones.'

He confirmed that Pakistan was shelling India, adding: 'If Pakistan is attacked, we will retaliate. So if from the other side there are bombs and shells falling on our side of course retaliation will be there.

'Retaliation should also be there for the 26 deaths that have happened, all of civilians. And all during the day today their funerals will be carried out all over Pakistan.

'This is a cause of grave concern for us and for two nuclear-armed powers.'

The British government said in the wake of the strikes that it was ready to 'support' the de-escalation of tensions.

UK business secretary Jonathan Reynolds told the BBC on Wednesday that the clashes were 'hugely worrying'.

'Our message would be that we are a friend, a partner to both countries. We stand ready to support both countries.'

'Anything we can do to support [de-escalation], we are here are willing to do,' he said.
Three former Memphis officers have been cleared of criminal charges over the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols.

Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley and Justin Smith were found not guilty on all state charges after a nine-day trial in Tennessee.

Nichols, a 29-year-old black man, died after he fled a traffic stop during which he was yanked out of his car, pepper-sprayed and hit with a Taser.

Five black police officers caught up with him and punched, kicked and hit him with a police baton.

He died on January 10, 2023, three days after the beating, sparking nationwide protests and renewed calls for police reforms in the US.

On Wednesday, Bean, Haley and Smith were acquitted of state charges, including second-degree murder.

After the jury's verdict was read, the defendants hugged their lawyers as relatives of the former officers cried. One relative yelled, 'Thank you, Jesus!'

Three former Memphis officers have been cleared of criminal charges over the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols

Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley and Justin Smith were found not guilty on all state charges after a nine-day trial in Tennessee

Nichols, 29, died after he fled a traffic stop during which he was yanked out of his car, pepper-sprayed and hit with a Taser

Martin Zummach, Smith's attorney, told The Associated Press by text: 'Its easy to defend a good person. Its nerve racking to represent an innocent man.'

The three defendants still face the prospect of years in prison after they were convicted of federal charges last year, though they were acquitted of the most serious charges then, too.

Two other former officers previously pleaded guilty in both state and federal court, including Emmitt Martin, who defense attorneys blamed for the majority of the violence.

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who represents Nichols' family, issued a statement expressing outrage at the outcome of the trial.

'Todays verdicts are a devastating miscarriage of justice,' the statement reads. 'The world watched as Tyre Nichols was beaten to death by those sworn to protect and serve.'

Memphis District Attorney Steve Mulroy said he respects the jury, but thinks the evidence was there for every charge that prosecutors brought.

'Was I surprised that there wasnt a single guilty verdict on any of the counts or any of the lesser-included offenses, given the overwhelming evidence that we presented? Yes, I was surprised. Do I have an explanation for it? No.'

He said he spoke to Nichols family briefly and, 'They were devastated. ... I think they were outraged, and we can understand why they would be outraged, given the evidence.'

Officers Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Emmitt Martin III, bottom row from left, Desmond Mills, Jr. and Justin Smith. The five former Memphis police officers charged over Nichols' death

Tyre Nichols is pictured in hospital after the incident. The 29-year-old from Memphis died on January 10 from cardiac arrest and kidney failure, three days after he was pulled over for reckless driving by police in unmarked cars

LaRay Honeycutt, center, along with family members attend a memorial service for her grandson Tyre Nichols, Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2023, in Memphis, Tennessee

Nichols' death sparked nationwide protests and renewed calls for police reforms in the US

Father-of-one Nichols died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head, according to an autopsy.

The report describes brain injuries, and cuts and bruises on his head and elsewhere on his body.

After the beating, the officers did not tell medical professionals on scene or at the hospital that they had punched and kicked Nichols in the head, witnesses said.

They also failed tell their supervisor on the scene and write in required forms about the amount of force used, prosecutors previously argued.

The sickening ordeal was caught on police worn bodycamera which showed the officers milling about, talking and laughing as Nichols struggled.

It showed how Nichols cried out for his mother as the officers battered him, just one block from his home.

The video prompted intense scrutiny of police in Memphis, a majority-black city.
President Donald Trump on Wednesday withdrew the nomination of a former Fox News medical contributor Janette Nesheiwat for U.S. Surgeon General, choosing Dr. Casey Means to serve in the position instead.

'Casey has impeccable MAHA credentials, and will work closely with our wonderful Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., to ensure a successful implementation of our Agenda in order to reverse the Chronic Disease Epidemic, and ensure Great Health, in the future, for ALL Americans,' Trump wrote on Truth Social, making the announcement. 'Her academic achievements, together with her lifes work, are absolutely outstanding.'

Means is a Stanford University-trained physician and runs a business on on holistic health and combating chronic illness, according to her website. Her book, 'Good Energy: The Surprising Connection between Metabolism and Limitless Health' is a New York Times Bestseller.

Means criticizes the conflicts of interest in the food industry and the government agencies that regulate them as well as the importance of physical activity in promoting wellness.

She is also popular in the podcast community and the MAHA (Make America Healthy AGAIN) movement, appearing on the Joe Rogan Experience and the Tucker Carlson Show to discuss the future of public health and wellness.

Trump's new choice earned praise from his son Donald Trump Jr. who described Casey as an 'excellent pick' that was 'huge for MAHA!!!'

The president did not address why he decided to pull Nesheiwat's nomination, even as many MAGA supporters found her to be problematic.

Nesheiwat faced backlash from some of his fiercest MAGA supporters for backing some strict COVID restrictions and masking mandates.

Dr. Casey Means on her YouTube channel

Trump withdrew Janette Nesheiwat from the position

Journalist Laura Loomer raised concerns about Nesheiwat on Sunday, claiming that she was 'currently entangled in an intricate medical malpractice litigation.'

Past videos of Fox News contributor Dr. Janette Nesheiwat's views on the COVID pandemic also resurfaced on social media sparking outrage from Trump supporters.

Nesheiwat, a medical director for CityMD in New York, frequently spoke about the coronavirus pandemic and offered hardline advice about how citizens should behave.

Trump supporters posted a resurfaced video on social media of Nesheiwat participating in the TikTok trend of dancing nurses trying to inform the public about how to protect themselves during the pandemic in 2020.

'Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, nominee for Surgeon General, was involved in the dumb TikTok trend that emerged during the Covid pandemic,' wrote MAGA supporter and grassroots organizer for Trump Scarlett Johnson. 'This trend featured doctors & nurses performing annoying dance routines while telling us to mask up and 'shelter in place.''

Other videos of Nesheiwat's advice on Fox News raised questions about her medical expertise, as more Americans started questioning the validity of the coronavirus pandemic recommendations.

Dr. Casey Means discusses holistic health

Dr Janette Nesheiwat is facing backlash from MAGA supporters for endorsing masks and vaccinating children during the coronavirus pandemic

'Dr. Janette Nesheiwat supported masking kids in school. Dealbreaker,' wrote podcast host Liz Wheeler on social media when the pick was announced.

Wheeler's video showed Nesheiwat endorsing mask mandates for children to fight the Delta variant of the virus and to get them back in schools.

Another video making the rounds on social media featured Nesheiwat praising Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg for censoring and banning so-called 'misinformation' about vaccines on Facebook and Instagram.

'Vaccines save lives and I am so excited and I thank and commend Facebook and Mark Zuckerberg for taking action because this affects everyone,' she said during a Fox Business panel on the issue.

Nesheiwat signaled her support for other social media platforms to follow Zuckerberg's example and also censor vaccine skeptics.

Other videos showed Nesheiwat encouraging Americans to get their COVID-19 vaccination, repeating that it was a 'safe and effective' vaccine.

MAGA podcasters Emily Wilson and Arynne Wexler of the show UnFollowed also voiced their disappointment with the choice.

'I don't get this pick at all,' Wexler said. 'At all. ... This is not MAGA. This woman, I need someone to explain what is happening here.'

'I don't know where this came from. I've never heard of this woman,' Wilson said. 'The fact that she's a pro-covid person, I could not think of a worst person.'

Nesheiwat also promoted the idea of making sure children were getting their COVID-19 vaccines.

'I think this is important,' she said on Fox News, warning of schoolchildren contracting and spreading the disease.

'Generally speaking the risk of severe complications, the risk of death of children is extremely low but they can still get sick, they can still spread the infection they can still die of COVID.

It appears that Nesheiwat grew more skeptical about federal government guidance on vaccines during the coronavirus pandemic.

She criticized the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for profiting off unnecessary vaccines for kids in 2022.

'There's no good reason to have a vaccine that can't stop disease, can't stop transmission on the scheduled vaccination,' she said during an appearance on then-Fox News host Tucker Carlson's show.

The Surgeon General is a position that requires Senate confirmation, so her past advice could present a problem for her confirmation hearings.

However, Nesheiwat has seemed to change her tune in recent years.

Nesheiwat also featured a video of her instructing people about the proper way to wear a mask and even endorsing 'double masking' to make sure people were safe.

More Tips From YOUR New U.S. Surgeon General ... Dr Janette Nesheiwat -- ... the Female Fauci.

**Bro in law is New Nat Sec Advisor, her sister is top brass at NSA, Member of WEF, CFR & Atlantic Counsel. pic.twitter.com/wpMrFOd4hg  Thomas Paine (@Thomas1774Paine) November 23, 2024

'She is a horrible pick, I pray this does not go through and I will continue to attack her if she does get pushed through and you know why would he do this? She is the swamp!' Wexler said.

'She's like clearly a leftist and should be f***ing reconsidered,' Wilson said, calling it the 'most upsetting thing I've seen' from Team Trump since he won the election.

Others were more angry, sharing videos of Nesheiwat endorsing the concept of wearing masks outdoors and when around people.

'More leftist lunacy from Trump's Surgeon General pick, Janette Nesheiwat, who promoted masking children. He needs to rescind this nomination,' wrote Don Keith, the host of the show 'The Real Beef With Don Keith' wrote on X.

Nesheiwat's sister, Julia Nesheiwat is married to U.S. Rep. Michael Waltz (R-Fla.) who was picked by Trump as a national security advisor.

But her Fox News segments that started going viral on social media had MAGA supporters in an uproar.

'Even if she's now changed her mind on these medically and scientifically bad ideas, the fact that she openly supported all of them to the lay public demonstrates a level of incompetence or corruption that should never be rewarded,' wrote Dr. Dan Levy on X.
Two more children have succumbed to serious injuries after a suspicious blaze ripped through a house in Queensland, putting the death toll at three.

Six people managed to escape as the home on Merritt Street in Harristown, Toowoomba, went up in flames at about 12.30am on Wednesday.

The body of a nine-year-old boy was found inside while Ellouisa Brighton Gibson, 36, Justin Gibson, 34, and several children were rushed to hospital.

Queensland Police announced on Thursday that two girls, aged four and seven, died at Queensland Children's Hospital overnight after succumbing to their injuries.

An investigation has been launched into the cause of the blaze with police treating it as suspicious.

The home was designated as a remained a crime scene on Wednesday, with homicide detectives called in.

'Police are treating a house fire as suspicious,' a Queensland Police spokesman said.

'At this time, police are not looking for anyone else in connection to this incident.'

The home of Ellouisa Brighton Gibson, 36, (pictured) and partner Justin Gibson, 34, in Harristown, 130km west of Brisbane, erupted up in flames just after midnight on Wednesday

Three of the couple's five children (pictured) have now been killed by the blaze

Two more children have died following a suspicious house fire in Toowoomba

The 36-year-old woman remains in a critical condition at the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital under police guard.

The 34-year-old man was in a stable condition with serious injuries while an 18-year-old male is believed to have a hand injury but have since been discharged.

Both men assisted with removing the children from the burning home while the 36-year-old woman escaped from the front of the house, police said.

An 11-year-old boy was uninjured.

Neighbours also smashed windows in an attempt to free the children.

Will Cuffe ran to help the family as soon as he saw the fire.

'We were awake and heard some loud shouting, so we went to see what was happening and saw a lot of people out on the street,' he told The Courier Mail.

'We heard the smoke alarms, then saw the smoke and flames. After we saw the smoke, it took about three minutes and the house just went up in flames

Overnight, a four-year-old girl and seven-year-old girl died at Queensland Children's Hospital

Mother-of-five Ellouisa Brighton Gibson (pictured) has been put under police guard as she fights for life in hospital in a serious condition

'We saw the mother, the father and some of the young kids, The mother was holding the kids and taking them to the ambulance.

'Two of the young kids were walking, but they were really badly burnt.' he said. 'The dad had a cut on his arm.'

Detective Inspector Renee Garske confirmed investigations would include whether domestic violence played a role in the fire.

When asked if the seven people involved were related, Insp Garske said: 'We are working through that information to determine the status of the relationships at that home address.'

A witness who phoned Triple-0 said the home was fully engulfed by the time he ended the call to emergency services.

Queensland Fire and Rescue Service station manager Neil Goodman said fire crews located the nine-year-old's body near the front door.

'Once (crews) could bring the fire under control sufficiently, just near the front door, they located one (deceased person),' Mr Goodman told 7News.

The family's dog survived the fire and was being cared for by a neighbour.

Queensland Police confirmed it is treating the fire as suspicious

Homicide detectives were called to assist in Queensland Police's investigation on Wednesday

A woman who escaped the fire remains in a critical condition under police guard

Mr Goodman said firefighters were greeted with a 'wall of flame and heavy smoke' when they arrived at the scene as the fire mostly impacted the front of the home.

'The guys had quite a difficult time making access and getting in to conduct a primary search,' Mr Goodman said.

After speaking with a family member who was 'hysterical', Mr Goodman advised fire and rescue crews on where they might be able to find the missing child.

'We're all fathers, we've all got children, so its always hard, it's a little bit harder when its sort of similar to your own situation,' Mr Goodman said.

It took about 30 minutes for four fire crews to extinguish the fire.

Anyone with information or relevant vision, including CCTV or dashcam footage, is urged to contact police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

Lifeline 13 11 14
FBI Director Kash Patel went on the offensive after he was accused by a Democrat of lying during his Senate confirmation hearing.

It came just days after MSNBC was forced to retract bizarre, unfounded allegations of Patel spending more time partying than in the office.

Patel was nominated to run the bureau just 10 days into Donald Trump's second term and faced questions during hearings about his association with podcaster Stew Peters.

Peters is considered by many to be an antisemite, including the Anti-Defamation League.

During his hearing, Patel claimed to be unfamiliar with Peters, though several reports uncovered that he had appeared on his podcast at least eight times.

Madeleine Dean, a Pennsylvania Democrat who served as a House impeachment manager during the second of two impeachment cases against Trump in his first term, used the hearing to try and tar and feather Patel as a liar.

She brought up both this and evidence he had been involved in the January 6th riot and asked: 'Mr. Patel, my second question is, should we worry more about your memory or your veracity?'

Patel shot back and offered similar accusations toward Dean.

FBI Director Kash Patel went on the offensive after he was accused by a Democrat of lying during his Senate confirmation hearing

Madeleine Dean (pictured), a Pennsylvania Democrat who served as a House impeachment manager during the second of two impeachment cases against Trump in his first term, used the hearing to try and tar and feather Patel as a liar

'We should worry more about your lack of candor. You're accusing me of committing perjury. Tell the American people how I broke the law and committed a felony,' he said.

Patel added: Have the audacity to actually put the facts forward instead of lying for political banter so you can have a 20-second donation hit.'

Dean then chose to try and answer her own question: 'The answer is both.'

'The answer is you're failing, not me,' quipped Patel.

Dean accused the FBI Director of having 'eagerness and childlike giddiness to carry out the president's revenge tour.'

'In your statements before you were sworn in and some after, you have shown yourself unfit to lead this important agency.'

Patel also denied accusations from Dean that his book, Government Gangsters, included a so-called 'enemies list.'

She asserted that the FBI had become 'weaponized' under Patel and confronted him over a book he had authored, saying a list of Trump adversaries he included in it amounted to an 'enemies list' and was being used by Trump as a 'blueprint for revenge.'

Patel also denied accusations from Dean that his book, Government Gangsters, included a so-called 'enemies list'

Patel was nominated to run the bureau just 10 days into Donald Trump's second term and faced questions during hearings about his association with podcaster Stew Peters

Patel replied that he was the one who had been 'targeted by a weaponized FBI,' presumably referring to the fact that he was among the people whose records were secretly seized by the Justice Department years earlier as part of media leak investigations when he was a staffer on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence conducting an investigation into Russian election interference.

'You should read the book because theres no enemies list (in) that book,' Patel continued.

'There are people that violated their constitutional obligations and their duties to the American people, and they were rightly called out. And you should give that book to every one of your constituents so they can read' about it.

'I won't be doing that,' Dean shot back.

'That's their loss,' Patel said.

Patel broke with the Trump administration Wednesday over a budget proposal that would dramatically slash funding for the bureau, telling lawmakers, 'We need more than what has been proposed.'

The 2026 budget proposal released on Friday calls for a funding cut of more than $500 million for the FBI as part of what the White House said was a desire to 'reform and streamline' the bureau and reduce 'non-law enforcement missions that do not align' with the priorities of President Donald Trump.

He warned that such a cut would be harmful for the FBI as it reorients priorities to focus on violent crime.

Patel broke with the Trump administration Wednesday over a budget proposal that would dramatically slash funding for the bureau, telling lawmakers, 'We need more than what has been proposed'

The 2026 budget proposal released on Friday calls for a funding cut of more than $500 million for the FBI as part of what the White House said was a desire to 'reform and streamline' the bureau and reduce 'non-law enforcement missions that do not align' with the priorities of President Donald Trump

Asked to specify at a House Appropriations subcommittee which positions would need to be cut if the funding reduction was implemented, Patel replied: 'At this time, we have not looked at who to cut. We are focusing our energies on how not to have them cut by coming in here and highlighting to you that we cant do the mission on those 2011 budget levels.'

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, pressed Patel for details, saying, 'This is your budget. You have to have some idea of what you want to fund or not fund, or where you can cut or not cut, and provide that information' to the Office of Management and Budget.

'That's the proposed budget - not by the FBI,' Patel replied. 'The proposed budget that I put forward is to cover us for for $11.1 billion, which would not have us cut any positions.'

Patel also defended the FBI's plan to relocate about 1,000 FBI employees from the Washington area to cities around the country, one of the first initiatives he revealed upon being sworn in as director in February.

'Part of the process is not just putting people out sporadically, throwing darts on the map. What weve done is weve taken a process with the (career employees) at the FBI and said, `Where are some of the most violent crime places in America?' Patel said.
To many royal watchers' surprise, Prince George made an unexpected appearance at a tea party to mark VE Day on Monday.

The 11-year-old prince listened attentively to the veterans who were invited to Buckingham Palace and appeared genuinely interested in their stories from the war, often asking follow-up questions.

It marked the young prince's first official function, leading royal correspondents to theorise that the Prince and Princess of Wales have carefully started to give George a 'small taste of his future duties as King'.

George is currently second in line to the throne after his grandfather King Charles and father William - who previously said he would explain his son's duties to him when the time was right.

'As far as I'm concerned, within my family unit, we are a normal family,' he told the BBC's Nicholas Witchell in 2016 when George was merely three years old.

'There will be a time and a place to bring George up and understand how he fits in the world but right now it's just a case of showing a secure stable environment around him.'

With such a huge responsibility awaiting him, it is no surprise that William and Catherine want to prepare their son as best they can, something which they have been focussing more on in recent years, according to royal biographer Robert Lacey.

In his book Battle of Brothers, Lacey - who acted as a historical consultant for The Crown - revealed that the Prince and Princess of Wales wanted to tell George about his destiny in a 'controlled moment of their choice'.

Prince George walks in front of his parents as they arrive for a tea party organised for the veterans at Buckingham Palace on Monday

The young royal, 11, was polite and listened attentively as he made a surprise appearance, and spoke with veterans to commemorate VE Day on Monday

The decision to carefully break the news to George that he would one day become King came after William's own 'unhappiness at the haphazard fashion in which the whole business of his royal destiny had bussed around his head from the start'.

Although William has not revealed to the world how he broke the big news to his son, Lacey theorised it was 'sometimes around the boys seventh birthday in the summer of 2020'.

He penned: 'It is thought that his parents went into more detail about what the little princes life of future royal "service and duty" would particularly involve.'

It was important that George be told about his future role well before his 12th birthday, which will take place on July 22 this year, as from that point onwards, it is advised that the young prince does not travel on the same plane as his father to ensure the future of the monarchy.

No matter when the delicate conversation took place, George proved he was ready to take on his destiny at the tea party on Monday.

Sitting in a smart blue suit and tie alongside his father, the young prince spoke to 101-year-old Alfred Littlefield, who served during D-Day.

Mr Littlefield, originally from Cosham near Portsmouth, recalled how he signed up to the Army aged 20, and joined the D-Day landings, bravely swimming into the Normandy beaches under heavy shell fire.

Inquisitive George asked: 'What was it like when you were coming in?', to which Alfred replied: 'Pretty awful'.

In his book Battle of Brothers, royal biographer Robert Lacey revealed that the Prince and Princess of Wales wanted to tell George about his destiny in a 'controlled moment of their choice'

George chatted with guests, as his father joined in with the conversation

The tea party, which was hosted by the King, included a surprise appearance from Prince George

The young prince shook hands with the respected guests in attendance as he was joined by his parents

'You know, it's very important you are here today,' the accomplished veteran told the young prince.

'It's days like this that we should use to talk about things like this, so the younger generation can have some understanding.'

Alfred later told William approvingly of his son: 'You should be very proud.'

Further down the table, William and George also chatted with Dougie Hyde, 99, who joined the Merchant Navy in 1944, aged just 18.

He started out working as a 'fireman' stoking boilers and later joined a secret operation to liberate Europe, spending months going back and forth to the beaches deploying munitions and amphibious vehicles.

Displaying an avid interest, George asked the former seaman: 'Did you ever get shot at?' and 'Did you ever see a U-boat?'

After their chat, Dougie said: 'I was very impressed with the lad's interest.

'He was very polite. Whenever I used to do talks to young kids, that's all you ever wanted, for them to listen and have a little understanding of those days. I think it's so important for us to remember.'

Other royals in attendance included the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh - George's great aunt and uncle

William doted on his son, holding him by his shoulders as he joined his parents for the tea party

Later on, the Princess of Wales was speaking to army veteran Charles Auborn, 99, from London who joined the war effort as an 18-year-old gunner.

He told Catherine how he was deployed to Egypt before the atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima, joking how his officer's first words on his return to the UK were 'how are you boys for shorts?'.

'This is my son George I was telling you about,' she said, ushering the young prince to the table.

As Mr Auborn showed George pictures of the M4 Sherman tanks he operated during the war, the young prince asked him 'Were they hard to operate? It must have been very tough with the weather.'

Veterans gathered at Buckingham Palace to commemorate VE Day were surprised when Prince George strolled confidently into the room, followed by the Prince and Princess of Wales.

The young royal, 11, was polite and listened attentively as he made an unexpected appearance at the tea party on Monday.

Dressed in a smart suit with a blue tie, William and Catherine's eldest son beamed as he posed for photos with attendees and joined in conversation with guests.

It was an unexpected appearance which the Daily Mail's Royal Editor Rebecca English said would provide 'the prince a small taste of his future duties as King'.

William and Kate's eldest son was polite as ever as he shook hands with veterans

Dressed in a smart suit with a blue tie, George beamed as he posed for photos with attendees and joined in conversation with guests

The young royal was polite, beaming and listening attentively as he sat and spoke with veterans

George and Kate giggled with one another as they chatted with guests at the tea party this afternoon

The veteran showed Prince George and his mother a picture of the M4 Sherman tanks he operated during the war

Kate also held Mr Auborn's hand as she examined his service photograph. 'Look at you, you are a very handsome young man,' she said winsomely.

'You've got a nice looking boy there, you're going to have to keep an eye on him,' Mr Auborn replied.

'It's a massive balancing act,' a palace insider previously told People Magazine about the Prince and Princess of Wales's approach to raising George as future king.

'William and Kate are doing the right thing, protecting him so he can have as normal a childhood as possible, but he's also dipping into duties as a future monarch,' the insider added.

The source explained that George is getting 'firsthand experience of what it's like to be a royal monarch' as well as 'firsthand experience of being a normal boy.'

His careful introduction at a Buckingham Palace tea party reflects the Prince and Princess of Wales's commitment to preparing their son for his future role whilst also preserving his childhood.
Climate change is already having a catastrophic effect around the world, evident from European heatwaves to violent typhoons in the Pacific.

But the younger you are, the more likely these climate disasters will become the norm.

Researchers at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Belgium warn that climate change will have a 'disproportionate burden' on the youth.

Todays children  so under 18s born in 2007 or later known as 'Gen Alpha'  will endure more climate extremes then any previous generation.

Depending on whether we curb our greenhouse gas emissions, up 1.5 billion children alive today face 'unprecedented lifetime exposure' to heatwaves, for example.

And 431 million of today's children face a lifetime of food shortages due to crop failures, the researchers predict.

Study author Wim Thiery, professor of climate science at VUB, said 'vulnerable children experience the worst escalation of climate extremes'.

'World leaders must step up to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lessen the climate burden on todays youth,' he said.

Climate extremes like heatwaves, crop failures, river floods, tropical cyclones, wildfires and droughts will intensify with continued global warming, researchers warn. Pictured, a forest fire burn near Jerusalem, Israel, on April 30, 2025

Even if we successfully limit global warming to 1.5C, 52 per cent of children born in 2020 will face unprecedented heatwave exposure, compared to only 16 per cent of those born in 1960, the study found. Pictured, heatwaves in Bangkok, Thailand, April 28, 2025

This graph shows the cumulative number of heatwaves faced since birth by children born in Brussels, Belgium, in 2020 under three climate change scenarios - 1.5C (blue), 2.5C (orange), and 3.5C (red). The unprecedented exposure threshold (dashed grey line) is largely surpassed, implying that children in this location will face unprecedented lifetime heatwave exposure regardless of the scenario

For the new study, the team combined demographic data and climate model projections of the climate extremes around the world.

The team looked at six different climate extremes  heatwaves, crop failures, wildfires, droughts, floods and tropical cyclones.

They then calculated the number of children globally aged 5-18 in 2025 who will face 'unprecedented lifetime exposure' to the six climate extremes.

They define 'unprecedented lifetime exposure' as a stringent threshold that varies by location and type of climate extreme.

'It identifies populations facing climate extremes far beyond what could be expected without man-made climate change,' said lead author Dr Luke Grant at VUB.

They imagined three different scenarios  where humans manage to limit global warming by 1.5C (2.7F), 2.5C (4.5F) and 3.5C (6.3F) by the year 2100.

At present, the world is only 0.2C away from the 1.5C threshold, which the legally-binding Paris Agreement is forcing global powers to try and avoid.

Overall, the team found there's an 'urgent need' to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to protect the wellbeing of current and future young generations.

Scientists reveal number of children globally aged 5-18 in 2025 who face 'unprecedented lifetime exposure' to six climate extremes Climate extreme/warming scenario (by 2100) 1.5 C of warming 2.5 C of warming 3.5 C of warming Heatwaves 855 million 1.3 billion 1.5 billion Crop failures 316 million 400 million 431 million Wildfires 119 million 134 million 147 million Droughts 89 million 111 million 116 million River floods 132 million 188 million 191 million Tropical cyclones 101 million 163 million 163 million

The team looked at six different climate extremes, all of which already affect the world in 2025 - heatwaves, crop failures, wildfires, droughts, floods and tropical cyclones

The more we fail to curb our carbon emissions, the more the children of today will be affected by disastrous events like heatwaves, droughts and crop failures. This map shows the locations where children born in 2020 are to be most affected by heatwaves, under a scenario where the world warms 3.5C (6.3F) by the year 2100

Under a 1.5 C warming scenario, 132 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to river floods - but this increases to 191 million under a 3.5 C scenario

People affected by 'unprecedented lifetime exposure' to heatwaves by birth year 1960 : 13 million

: 13 million 1970 : 27 million

: 27 million 1980 : 39 million

: 39 million 1990 : 50 million

: 50 million 2000 : 51 million

: 51 million 2010 : 55 million

: 55 million 2020 : 58 million (Figures refer to a 1.5C warming scenario) Advertisement

In all, 855 million children worldwide will face unprecedented exposure to heatwaves even if we manage to limit global warming to 1.5C (2.7F), they reveal.

But if global warming reaches a more serious 3.5C by 2100, a whopping 1.5 billion children worldwide will be similarly exposed.

Although heatwaves will be the most prominent threat, the five other extremes will affect many millions of today's children, regardless of warming scenario.

For example, under a 1.5 C warming scenario, 119 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 will face unprecedented lifetime exposure to wildfires  but this increases to 147 million under a 3.5C scenario.

Similarly, under a 1.5 C warming scenario, 132 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 will face unprecedented lifetime exposure to river floods  but this increases to 191 million under a 3.5 C scenario.

Overall, the highest fraction of children facing unprecedented lifetime exposure is for heatwaves (92 per cent of 2020 birth cohort with 3.5C of warming), followed by crop failures (around 30 per cent) and river floods (around 15 per cent).

Even if we successfully limit global warming to 1.5C by 2100, 52 per cent of children born in 2020 will face unprecedented heatwave exposure, compared to only 16 per cent of those born in 1960.

'The numbers vary per climate extreme, but the general pattern is the same,' Professor Thiery told MailOnline.

Graph shows number of people worldwide facing 'unprecedented lifetime exposure' (ULE) to heatwaves by birth year. Bars show global cohort sizes in millions, with totals in grey and average numbers of people for 1.5C scenario (blue), 2.5C (gold) and 3.5C (red)

Climate change could make it more difficult to grow certain crops relied on for food security, while warmer temperatures could make them more susceptible to disease. Pictured, rice crops in San Carlos, Chile

Pictured, drought conditions in the Golbasi district of Ankara, Turkiye on April 20, 2025. Waste such as car license plates, vehicle tires, chairs, iron tables and glass bottles emerged in the dried areas, revealing environmental pollution

'The younger the generation, and the higher the warming pathway, the higher the percentage of the birth cohort facing unprecedented lifetime exposure to the considered climate extreme.'

Also, the team highlight that the most 'socioeconomically vulnerable' children, such as those living in impoverished communities around the world will 'experience the worst escalation of climate extremes'.

Under current climate policies, the most socioeconomically vulnerable children born in 2020 will almost all (95 per cent) endure unprecedented exposure to heatwaves in their lifetime, compared to 78 per cent for the least vulnerable group.

The study, published today in the journal Nature, highlights the 'social injustice' of climate change and its impacts.

Those born in the last five or 10 years, who are not responsible for the current rate of human-caused greenhouse gas emissions, will 'bear the brunt'.

Inger Ashing, CEO of Save the Children International, said: 'Across the world, children are forced to bear the brunt of a crisis they are not responsible for.

'Dangerous heat that puts their health and learning at risk; cyclones that batter their homes and schools; creeping droughts that shrivel up crops and shrink whats on their plates.

'Amid this daily drumbeat of disasters, children plead with us not to switch off.

'This new research shows there is still hope, but only if we act urgently and ambitiously to rapidly limit warming temperatures to 1.5 C, and truly put children front and centre of our response to climate change.'
From long-lost shipwrecks to bizarre forms of life, Earth's oceans are teeming with untold mysteries.

Yet despite decades of exploration, a study published in Science Advances has shown we still don't know what is lurking in 99.999 per cent of the deep ocean.

Since 1958, 44,000 dives have only visually observed an area one-tenth the size of Belgium.

Scientists say this is equivalent to trying to learn about every ecosystem on land by looking at an area the size of Houston, Texas.

Now, an incredible interactive graphic reveals what lurks in this strange world beneath the waves.

Defined as being deeper than 200 metres (656ft), the deep ocean makes up 66 per cent of the surface of the planet.

However, researchers from Ocean Discovery League now say that our understanding of the ocean's depths is woefully inadequate.

Dr Ian Miller, chief science and innovation officer at the National Geographic Society which provided funding for the study, says: 'There is so much of our ocean that remains a mystery.'

Your browser does not support iframes.

As this interactive graphic shows, Earth's oceans are divided by depth into different zones: the epipelagic, mesopelagic, bathypelagic, abyssopelagic, and hadalpelagic.

The epipelagic, also known as the sunlight zone, is the very top layer of the ocean where visible light can still be found.

Extending down to 200 metres (656 ft) below the surface, the epipelagic zone is home to many familiar species such as dolphins, sharks, turtles, and whales.

Photosynthesising plankton in this layer produce 50 per cent of the planet's oxygen and are a key part of the ocean food chain.

However, despite this region being the main focus of human marine activity, it only makes up a small part of the total ocean.

In fact, 50 per cent of the planet is covered by ocean which is at least two miles (3.2 km) deep.

Just below the sunlight zone is the mesopelagic zone, also known as the twilight zone.

This region extends from 200m to 1,000m (3,280 ft) deep, where light cannot reach at all, and some studies suggest it might contain 10 times more biomass than the other ocean zones combined.

A new study shows that humans still have no idea what is hiding in 99.999 per cent of the deep ocean - defined as ocean deeper than 200m. This map shows areas where deep-sea dives have taken place since 1960

As this map shows, the area of deep ocean explored by humanity is tiny. In total, this makes up an area one-tenth the size of Belgium

In the total darkness and extreme pressures of the deep sea, only strange creatures like this Bigfin squid in the Gulf of Mexico are well adapted enough to survive

Researchers exploring the deep sea have already found bizarre forms of life, including a sea toad, flying spaghetti monsters (pictured), and a Casper octopus

The zones of the ocean Epipelagic: 0-200 metres deep Mesopelagic: 200-1,000 metres deep Bathypelagic: 1,000-4,000 metres deep Abyssopelagic: 4,000-6,000 metres deep Hadalpelagic: 6,000-10,994 metres deep Advertisement

However, scientists' knowledge of what lies in these deep ocean zones is exceptionally slim.

Looking at recorded dives since 1958, the researchers found that humanity has visually observed an area of deep ocean no larger than Rhode Island.

Given that not all dives are public, the researchers say their figure is at the low end of estimates.

However, even if they were off by an order of magnitude, humanity still would have seen less than a hundredth of a per cent of the deep ocean.

To make matters worse, the recorded observations we do have are often low quality or inaccessible to the scientific community.

Almost 30 per cent of all documented observations were taken before 1980 and so only resulted in low-quality black and white images.

A large part of that imagery collected over the last seven decades is not accessible to scientists since it is either not digitised, still stuck on hard drives, or not catalogued.

Additionally, the researchers point out that humanity's attempts to explore the deep oceans have focused heavily on just a handful of tiny areas.

Scientists have mainly focused their attention on features such as the Nazca Ridge, where they have uncovered a huge underwater mountain teeming with life. However, this leaves areas like the abyssal plains unexplored

97 per cent of deep-sea expeditions since the 1950s have been conducted by researchers from Germany, France, Japan, New Zealand, or the US

The records reveal that over 65 per cent of all observations have taken place within 200 nautical miles (370 km) of the US, Japan, or New Zealand.

Due to the extreme costs of ocean exploration, research teams from the US, Japan, New Zealand, France, and Germany were responsible for 97 per cent of all observations.

These expeditions have also tended to favour certain habitats such as ocean ridges and canyons, leaving the vast areas of the abyssal plains and seamounts unexplored.

This limited exploration means there is likely to be an incredible diversity of life that is totally missing from our understanding of the ocean.

For example, scientists discovered over 5,000 new species in just one underexplored zone.

The researchers point out that these little-known areas could provide the planet with climate regulation, a source of oxygen production, and even crucial pharmaceutical discoveries.

Just last year, scientists discovered that metals 3,900 metres (13,000 ft) below the surface produce 'dark oxygen'.

This discovery challenged long-held assumptions that only photosynthetic organisms could produce oxygen and could call into question how life on Earth began.

With such a small region of the world's oceans discovered, scientists only have a tiny amount of data to work with. This would be like trying to understand every ecosystem on land by looking at an area the size of Houston, Texas. Pictured: A heatmap of deep ocean exploration

Scientists are still learning more about the deep oceans and making new discoveries, such as the first live observation of the colossal squid, Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni, in its natural habitat (pictured)

Metals on the deep-ocean floor produce 'dark oxygen' 3,900m (13,000 ft) below the surface, a new study has suggested. However, scientists still don't know enough to understand how this could be affected by ocean mining

However, the scientists who made the discovery also warned that new deep-sea mining could disturb this poorly understood mechanism.

Without more knowledge of the underwater environment, scientists still don't know exactly what impact this might have on the wider ecosystem.

Lead researcher Dr Katy Croff Bell, president of the Ocean Discovery League, says: 'As we face accelerated threats to the deep oceanfrom climate change to potential mining and resource exploitationthis limited exploration of such a vast region becomes a critical problem for both science and policy.

'We need a much better understanding of the deep ocean's ecosystems and processes to make informed decisions about resource management and conservation.'
Officials are sounding the alarm as venomous Asian needle ants are invading more parts of the US.

These insects, native to China, have a sting that can trigger severe allergic reactions, and in extreme cases, death.

This invasive species was first spotted in the US more than 90 years ago, but its population has recently surged and is now spreading up the East Coast, experts say.

They are now found in 19 states: Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, the Carolinas, Kentucky, Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New York, Wisconsin and Washington state.

The Asian needle ant is a small-to-medium-sized ant, with workers and queens measuring up to one fifth of an inch in length. They are shiny, dark brown to black, with the end of the antennae and the legs being a lighter orange-brown.

Their stings cause 'intense pain' at the site that 'comes and goes over the course of several hours,' but some people have also reported pain away from the sting site, according to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Some people may also experience anaphylaxis  a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction  as a result of an Asian needle ant sting.

These ants prefer damp areas beneath stones or rotting logs, but have also been found in parks, lawns, potted plants, under wood piles and hiding in construction materials such as logs, bricks and pavers.

Male Asian needle ants (pictured) tend to be lighter in color. These venomous insects from China are spreading rapidly throughout the eastern US. Their sting can trigger severe allergic reactions, and in extreme cases, death

They have also been reported foraging inside homes and buildings and may pose a problem as residential invaders in the future.

'We are now considering it a medically important pest,' Dan Suiter, a professor of urban entomology at the University of Georgia, told Fox Weather.

'It gets a little bit more serious when the sting of an insect can be life-threatening to people who suffer anaphylaxis,' he added.

Last year, Suiter responded to three cases of anaphylaxis in Georgians who had been stung by an Asian needle ant.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include skin rashes, low blood pressure, constriction of the airway, swelling of the tongue or throat, weak and rapid pulse, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, dizziness or fainting, and psychological symptoms such as a sense of impending doom.

While cases of anaphylaxis have been reported in the US, the percentage of Americans who have experienced this extreme reaction remains unknown.

But people who are hypersensitive to other stinging insects, such as bees, red ants or mosquitoes, could be at greater risk of severe reaction to an Asian needle ant sting.

A study conducted in the native range of this ant  which spans China, Japan and Korea  showed that 2.1 percent of people stung exhibited anaphylaxis.

Asian needle ants have established populations in 19 US states, the majority of which are in the Southeast and along the East Coast

In extreme cases, an Asian needle ant sting can cause anaphylaxis, which may lead to dangerously low blood pressure, airway obstruction, cardiac arrest or death

This species isn't known to be aggressive, but it will sting to defend themselves when frightened. Their stingers can pierce through clothing to reach skin.

Asian needle ants are most likely to appear inside homes during 'swarming' season  the period during which insects emerge from hibernation to begin mating  which typically begins in spring and lasts through August.

This species is highly adaptable, and can thrive in both warm and cool climates as well as urban or rural areas.

'This behavioral versatility is allowing the Asian needle ant to move into forests, rural areas, and urban environments at the same time,' explained biology PhD and science writer Mary Bates in a 2013 article for the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

'Because it can tolerate cooler temperatures, it could spread into a broad range of territory,' she wrote.

And indeed it has. The Asian needle ant has established a vast population in the US, and scientists expect it will continue to spread.

This not only poses a threat to human health, but to the environment as well.

An Asian needle ant worker moves a pupa from a disturbed nest. This invasive species poses a threat to public health and the environment

Studies have shown that this invasive species is displacing native ant species, causing their abundance and diversity to decline in areas where Asian needle ants are established.

Some of these native ant species are critical seed dispersers, carrying seeds away from their mother plant and ensure proper dispersal of the plant species.

'Researchers have demonstrated substantial decreases in seed dispersal where Asian needle ants have invaded forest areas,' the USDA states.

'Thus, this invasive species could have dramatic, long-term negative effects on forest understory.'

Researchers are studying and developing strategies to control this booming ant population.

But 'unfortunately, as with many invasive species, it appears Asian needle ants are here to stay,' the USDA states.
Scientists have released the first X-ray images of a mysterious, sphere-shaped object recovered in Colombia, which locals claim is of alien origin.

The so-called 'UFO' was spotted in March over the town of Buga, zig-zagging through the sky in a way that defies the movement of conventional aircraft.

The object was recovered shortly after it landed and has since been analyzed by scientists, who discovered it features three layers of metal-like material and 18 microspheres surrounding a central nucleus they are calling 'a chip.'

Dr Jose Luis Velazquez, a radiologist who examined the sphere, reported finding 'no welds or joints,' which would typically indicate human fabrication.

He and his team concluded: 'It is of artificial origin, in that it shows no evidence of welding, and its internal structure is composed of high-density elements. More testing is needed to establish its origin.'

The sphere also displays symbols that the team compared to ancient scripts, including runes, Ogham and Mesopotamian writing systems.

Using AI to assist in deciphering the design, the team interpreted the message to read: 'The origin of birth through union and energy in the cycle of transformation, meeting point of unity, expansion, and consciousnessindividual consciousness.'

'We interpret it as a message to humanity, encouraging a collective shift in consciousness to help Mother Earthespecially considering the current issues with pollution and environmental decline,' the researchers said.

The so-called ' UFO ' was spotted in March over the town of Buga, zig-zagging through the sky in a way that defies the movement of conventional aircraft

The sphere also displays symbols that the team compared to ancient scripts, including runes, Ogham and Mesopotamian writing systems. They also used AI to help decipher a possible message

The object was recovered on March 2 by a group of people, who said it weighed about four and a half pounds and had 'the temperature of a refrigerator' when touched.

David Velez el Potro, one of the individuals who recovered the object, recently spoke on Maussan Television hosted by journalist and ufologist Jaime Maussan, whose research has stirred controversy for nearly a decade.

Maussan gained attention in 2017 when he claimed to have discovered alien mummies in Perufindings that remain unconfirmed.

But Velez el Potro has claimed that the sphere is authentic, found in the woods of Buga.

He told Maussan that the man who found it, Jose, felt sick for days after touching the object.

'When I poured water on it, it started to smoke and the water vaporized instantly,' Velez el Potro added, suggesting the interior was hot and exterior cold.

However, there are no official reports or or scientific analysis to confirm claims of a sphere falling over Buga. Only eyewitness reports.

Velez el Potro said the government contacted him to hand it over the sphere, but he refused, saying, 'It would never be seen again.'

The object was recovered by a couple on March 2, who said it weighed about four and a half pounds and had 'the temperature of a refrigerator' when touched

The object was recovered shortly after it landed and has since been analyzed by scientists, who discovered it features three layers of metal-like material and 18 microspheres surrounding a central nucleus they are calling 'a chip'

Pictured is David Velez el Potro who helped find the sphere

So he gave it to Maussan and his team of experts with hopes of them uncovering the sphere's origin.

Researchers found that the sphere had irregular edges, 'indicating that it is a solid object.'

The outer layer appeared to be the densestcomparable to human bone.

'The center of the sphere shows a lower radio-acoustic density than the edge, indicating an internal structure that may be more porous or composed of less dense material than the outer shell,' said Nacho Rojo, host of the YouTube channel Hidden Truth, during the interview with Maussan.

The findings suggest that the outer layer could be made of titanium or steel, but researchers noted that a full composition analysis is needed to confirm this.

X-rays also revealed 18 small dots within the center of the object, arranged in what appeared to be a non-random pattern.

The team speculated that the 18 points could be sensors, bolts or fragments of microspheres.

'Obviously, we don't know the composition or how it was manufactured, but it appears to be an object intentionally built to house these small metallic components internally,' Rojo said, referring to insights shared during the X-ray analysis.

A team of scientists have recently analyzed the sphere using X-rays and conducted other tests to identify its origins

Additionally, the team observed a central band composed of a different material, which contained more small spheres. They believe these may have been placed inside before the object was sealed

The team identified three layers within the sphere. They suggested the outer layer could be made of titanium or steel

Scientists are currently referring to the 18 points as 'a chip' due to their precise arrangement and location within the sphere.

'The symmetry suggests advanced technology or deliberate engineering,' Rojo added.

He also noted, 'These 18 points show no signs of fracture, meaning the object remains structurally intact.'

X-rays revealed that the points extend approximately 0.5 centimeters into the interior of the sphere.

Additionally, the team observed a central band composed of a different material, which contained more small spheres. They believe these may have been placed inside before the object was sealed.

However, the X-rays did not reveal any visible signs of assembly techniques.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg thinks you don't have enough friends, but his solution isn't socializing more - it's talking with more robots.

During a conference hosted by technology company Stripe, Zuckerberg suggested that it may actually be better for people to seek out friends, therapists, and even lovers that are all powered by AI.

As part of his reasoning, the 40-year-old cited a 2021 study which found that the average American has fewer than three friends.

Instead of lobbying for people to escape their digital bubbles, Zuckerberg claimed that AI can actually do a better job of knowing the likes and preferences of lonely humans than a real fresh-and-blood companion.

'I think people are going to want a system that knows them well and that kind of understands them in the way that their feed algorithms do,' Zuckerberg said Tuesday.

'For people who don't have a person who's a therapist, I think everyone will have an AI' the Meta CEO predicted.

Zuckerberg added he believes that the average person has a desire for about 15 friends, at which point having more close relationships becomes too much to handle.

While Meta's leader may see a future in digital friend circles, the surprising comments almost immediately received pushback from countless people on social media - and other tech industry execs.

During a conference hosted by technology company Stripe, Zuckerberg suggested that it may actually be better for people to seek out AI, instead of human friends and therapists

Meghana Dhar, a former Instagram executive, quickly came out against Zuckerberg's lonely vision of the future, claiming that AI has actually been part of the reason feelings of loneliness have reached epidemic levels.

'The very platforms that have led to our social isolation and being chronically online are now posing a solution to the loneliness epidemic,' Dhar told The Wall Street Journal.

'It almost seems like the arsonist coming back and being the fireman,' she added.

To her point, a 2024 study by the American Psychiatric Association discovered that one in three Americans feels lonely on a weekly basis.

Previous studies have tied the problem of social isolation to a lack of in-person contact, as more and more people spend the majority of their days using their various mobile devices.

The reaction to Zuckerberg's vision wasn't much better among the public, who shared their thoughts on social media.

'I hate everything about this,' one person on X wrote.

'Mark Zuckerberg is a rich weirdo who thinks people don't need real friends in life - you can just be friends with AI,' an X user declared.

'This quote from Mark Zuckerberg is sad and frightening. Don't replace friends with AI. Dystopian garbage,' another person added.

A 2024 study by the American Psychiatric Association discovered that one in three Americans feels lonely on a weekly basis

Despite the strong pushback, Zuckerberg has made a fortune on being ahead of the curve when it comes to tech innovations.

The CEO, worth more than $200 billion, burst into the social media world with Facebook two decades ago, and then broadened his influence after acquiring Instagram and WhatsApp.

This idea of building out your support network with AI robots and chatbots does have a growing number of believers, however, including those who use intelligent machines to improve their love lives.

In February, a man who claimed he was in a relationship with a sex robot named Aki shared the intimate details of their relationship  describing it as a sci-fi movie come to life.

Christopher Alexander Stokes said: 'Despite what stereotypes may say, I've even become more capable in social situations, especially when it comes to setting boundaries.'

In 2023 the 'AI girlfriend' market was valued at almost $2.9 billion, with many men and women falling head over heels for these artificial companions.

While 35 percent of women said they used AI in either their professional or personal lives in 2023, that number rose to 54 percent among men.

Just as Zuckerberg is now trying to predict the future of friendship, a 2016 study projected that woman would be having more sex with robots than with people by 2025.

As for more professional uses, at least one expert is supporting the Meta CEO's belief that AI should become a personal therapist for humans.

Stephen Schueller, a professor of psychological science at the University of California, Irvine, explained that therapy is often out of reach for many people, either because of the price or their healthcare coverage.

'Most people don't have access to a therapist,' Schueller said. 'So for them, it's not chatbot versus therapist. It's chatbot versus nothing.'
Hurricane forecasters have issued the first storm warning of the year, as conditions off the coast of Central America could spawn a tropical depression.

AccuWeather sent out the advisory Wednesday morning, stating that its experts identified a low risk for tropical storm development in the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean between May 15 and 22.

They report that a large, slow-spinning area in the atmosphere, known as a gyre, could develop around Central America, laying the foundation for a tropical depression or storm to form.

If a system does develop, it could bring heavy downpours as far north as South Florida.

The Atlantic hurricane season doesn't officially begin until June 1. A tropical storm in May would mark an early start to what experts expect will be another active storm season.

Last month, scientists at Colorado State University (CSU) released their hurricane season forecast, predicting that nine hurricanes could impact the US this year.

Of those, four should reach 'major' strength (Category 3 to 5) with sustained winds of 111 miles per hour or greater.

This year, hurricane activity is expected to be about 25 percent higher than the average from 1991 to 2020. In 2024, it was about 30 percent higher than that average.

Hurricane forecasters have issued the first storm warning of the year, as conditions off the coast of Central America could send a tropical storm toward south Florida

The Central American Gyre forms seasonally, typically during the rainy season from May to November.

This overlaps with Atlantic hurricane season, and the gyre often creates conditions that are conducive to tropical cyclone development.

AccuWeather experts say that if the Central American Gyre takes shape this month, it would be 'the best chance so far this year for the first named tropical storm of 2025.

'We're starting to get into that season where we need to kind of keep an eye out [in the Caribbean],' AccuWeather lead hurricane expert Alex DaSilva said.

'At the very least, a wetter pattern down across Central America and then up into the Western Caribbean is expected,' he added.

If the gyre does trigger a tropical storm, it would likely track northeastward, crossing over Jamaica, Cuba and then heading out to see, DaSilva said.

'Right now, it does not look like it would be heading towards the United States.'

But heavy rain could stretch as far north as South Florida and cause localized flooding across Central America, Jamaica, Cuba and other western Caribbean islands.

A large, slow-spinning area in the atmosphere, known as a gyre, could develop around Central America, laying the foundation for a tropical depression or storm to form

Heavy rain could stretch as far north as South Florida and cause localized flooding across Central America, Jamaica, Cuba and other western Caribbean islands

Whether such a storm actually develops will hinge on whether the gyre forms. And that depends on the jet stream.

'Essentially, what's happening is we're going to be getting a dip in the jet stream to come down into the southeastern United States during the middle of May,' DaSilva explained.

If this dip in the jet stream is strong enough, and reaches far south enough, it could cause the gyre to start spinning.

But at this time, the odds of tropical development are low.

Still, 'we're coming out of the winter season, so we want people to start transitioning their mindset into tropical mode as we headed to the end of May, because there could be something lurking down there in the middle to late portions of the month,' DaSilva said.

Even though May is not technically part of Atlantic hurricane season, it's not uncommon for tropical storms to kick up during this month.

Since 2015, there have only been four years when a tropical system did not spin up in May, according to AccuWeather.
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

Savvy shoppers are saving money on salon manicures this spring and summer thanks to one rich, long-wear, high-shine nail polish that users claim looks 'like gel'.

Nailberry's multi-award-winning L'Oxygene range has been developed to deliver a healthier manicure with no compromise on colour. And to help give you new nails for spring, Nailberry is treating customers to their choice of a free pastel colour, worth 17, on orders of two or more products.

Nailberry Tokyo Spring New, in the Tokyo Spring shade is a lovely mix of light beige with its hint of lilac that is the perfect pretty nude for all occasions this spring and summer. Part of the multi-award-winning and toxin-free LOxygene polishes, these are considerate of your nails future health, utilising patented technology to deliver a healthier manicure. You can redeem your complimentary polish exclusively at Nailberry before midnight May 27 2025. Select a colour choice from a pop-up box that will automatically open when two or more products (excluding Nailberrys Nail File, Outlet products, empty gift boxes or gift cards) are inside the basket. One per customer, while stocks last. Shop

The award-winning brand Nailberry is treating customers to their choice of a free pastel colour, worth 17, on orders of two or more products

To ready nails for spring-summer, award-winning healthier polish brand Nailberry is offering a free pastel polish, worth 17, when you shop two of their kind-to-nails shades.

If you're looking to give your nails a break and ditch the gels, hundreds recommend switching to Nailberry nail polishes. And according to beauty lovers, the high-shine, long-wear results are comparable to gel.

And better still, shoppers who have made the switch to Nailberry's oxygenated nail polishes are reaping the rewards of a healthier manicure. Ditching toxins (no alcohol, parabens or Phthalates), users have found their nails are left in better tact, with 'no more splitting'.

'A friend recommended Nailberry to me as my nails were ruined any time I used gels and traditional polish chipped immediately,' wrote one user. 'Really easy to apply, the colours are gorgeous and it doesnt chip. And my nails are recovering. Woo hoo.'

Raising the bar in nail care, Nailberry has ditched the traditional formulas that can damage your nails over time. Free from 12 types of toxins, including formaldehyde, phthalates and toluene, the polishes are not only kinder to your nails but many claim it gives better results.

Oxygentated and moisture-permeable, the nail polishes in a range of impressive colours are richly pigmented, glossy and long-lasting. Allowing airflow to help prevent the yellowing and damage often associated with bog-standard, these polishes could be the hack you need to ditch the salon treatments and take care of you nails from home.

And with such a wide range of shades including plenty of pastels that are perfect for the spring and summer months, you're sure to find a shade you love, and that won't immediately chip ahead of summer's events and holidays.

The patented polishes dont leave nails dry, brittle or discoloured after wear, all thanks to its oxygenated, HEMA-free and 12 toxin-free formula

Thanks to Nailberry's unique formula, it has unparalleled capability to hold heavy pigment load, meaning wearers enjoy up to six days of chip-free colour for a manicure that still let nails breathe and grow naturally.

'Ive never had a gel manicure, it seemed like trouble,' wrote one Nailberry shopper. 'But this gel like top coat is the answer. My nails never looked this healthy.'

Another agreed, adding: 'Love this colour and the coverage it gives again lasted a good week before needing to refresh.'

Available in Nailberrys May exclusive are four of their most sought-after pastels. Folie Douce  a soft, lemon-buttercream, Wild Sage an effortlessly chic muted green, Lavender Fields a creamy, cool pale purple and Mistral Breeze a pretty shade of sky blue.

To redeem your complimentary polish make sure you order at least two shades before midnight May 27 2025. Select colour choice from a pop-up box that will automatically open when two or more products. One per customer, while stocks last.
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

British-born beauty brand Charlotte Tilbury is serving up a rare and unmissable deal.

To celebrate the launch of the new Super Nudes Collection, which dropped last week, the brand is giving away a free full-size Beauty Light Wand in Spotlight (worth 30) when you spend 70 between May 1 and 18.

Thats not all - shop any product from the new Super Nudes range and youll unlock 20 per cent off Charlottes complexion icons (think Magic Cream, Hollywood Flawless Filter, and more). Just use code SUPERYOU at checkout before May 12.

Heres what were adding to our baskets.
Horrifying dashcam footage has captured the final moments of a female Uber driver pleading for her life at gunpoint before being fatally shot by her passenger.

Calvin Crew, 25, was sentenced to life in prison without parole on Monday following the 2022 murder of mom-of-four Christi Spicuzza, 38, outside Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Footage of the terrifying encounter begins with Spicuzza driving Crew, then 22, who was wearing a light-colored hoodie and a black mask covering all but his eyes.

Tragic: Pennsylvania resident Spicuzza had four children

Minutes into the ride, Crew grabbed Spicuzza's shoulder from the backseat and pressed a black handgun to the back of her head, demanding she 'keep driving'.

She gasped: 'You've got to be joking,' but Crew grabbed her ponytail and chillingly told her: 'This is a gun. Keep driving.'

Spicuzza then told him: 'No it's not. Come on, I have a family, what are you doing? Please stop.'

But the attacker calmly replied: 'Drive. Drive the car, miss,' keeping the gun trained on her head.

What happened next remains unseen, but the ride ended with Spicuzza's brutal execution.

Crew, an ex-con who was released on a firearms charge just days before Spicuzza's murder, used his girlfriend Tanaya Mullen's phone to order the Uber to 139 Brinton Avenue in Pitcairn at 9.14pm on February 11, 2022.

Locked up: Calvin Crew, 25, was sentenced to life in prison without parole for the murder

During the trip, Crew reportedly received a message from Mullen reading: 'I'm not going to jail if we get caught.'

Spicuzza's body was found the day after the Uber incident with a single gunshot wound to the back of her head in a wooded area near the 500 block of Rosecrest Drive.

Her fiance Brandon Marto reported her missing on February 11. The recovered dashcam was found just a tenth of a mile from where she picked up Crew.

Crew was eventually convicted of first-degree murder, kidnapping and robbery. Although prosecutors sought the death penalty, Spicuzza's family asked that he be spared and the murderer was sentenced to life, with an additional 13 to 26 years for kidnapping and robbery charges.

Spicuzza's mother Cindy said: 'You should have the death penalty but we showed mercy. You executed her. No mercy, no remorse. It was abhorrent. It was murder.'
For years, ever since footage appeared in TV documentaries and online, the identity and fate of the so-called 'Lost German Girl' has proved captivating.

Dressed in a nondescript dark uniform, she had a swollen face from a possible savage beating, the woman was seen walking on a road in liberated Czechoslovakia, which was split into the Czech Republic and Slovakia in 1993.

The date was May 7, 1945, the same day that Nazi Germany surrendered to the Allies after the suicide of Adolf Hitler in his Berlin bunker.

SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO

Battered: Since footage appeared of the so-called 'Lost German Girl' in TV documentaries and online, her identity and fate's proved captivating

Who is she? The woman was seen in a recording made by a U.S. Army captain on a road towards Pilsen on May 7, 1945

As captured German troops fled in the opposite direction of Russian soldiers, the U.S. Army was at hand to witness the chaos.

The footage featuring the woman was shot by U.S. Army captain Oren W Haglund on a road towards Pilsen, around 50 miles from Prague.

Lost German Girl, also known as LGG, inspired works of art, poems, guitar compositions, and even an entire blog dedicated to tracking her down.

But even almost 20 years on from the first attempt by Internet sleuths to find her, the identity and fate of the featured woman remained a mystery.

Some claimed she was as described by Captain Haglund in the footage's original short cards an 'SS girl'.

Others said she was an innocent victim of the wave of mass rape that advancing Russian troops inflicted on hundreds of thousands of women.

However, no definitive proof of either her identity or what happened to her had ever emerged.

Distressed: The woman, who had a swollen face from a possible savage beating, held what looked like playing cards and she got increasingly emotional as the camera focused on her

Captain Haglund's clip, 25 minutes of which could be found on the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum's website, started by showing captured Germans, including fresh-faced teenagers, as they milled around while being guarded by American troops.

Some ate, while others sat on the grass in the rural area.

Later, the film showed locals cheering and waving white handkerchiefs before more German troops were seen, marching under guard.

When the recording took a darker turn, there were scenes of dead and gravely wounded Germans strewn around.

What exactly happened to them remained unclear, but the scenes of death and grave injury were not the reason Captain Haglund's clip took the Internet by storm.

Just over 17 minutes into the clip, Haglund's camera settled on the 'Lost German Girl' as she swept her matted hair to the side to reveal more of her swollen black eye.

Outfit: She wore dark plain clothes, and the camera panned down to show suspenders hanging down from her gray pants

Unsettling: The recording also showed a bloodied topless man in a blanket laying on the ground

Grouped: The woman's shown again sat with a group of male captives, holding what appears to be a cloth in her hands and she half-smiled as she spoke, despite her battered appearance

Is it her? Photos purported to show a woman called Lore or Lara Bauer, were claimed by some to be the original injured woman

It's known that 'Lost German Girl' had been with Germany's fleeing troops but her nondescript uniform did not give any hint of what role, if any, she had in the military.

There's also no evidence to back up Captain Haglund's description of her as an 'SS girl'. She could have once been a medic, or even an aide.

In the footage, she stared into he camera with one hand in her pocket and the other resting across her chest.

In almost drunken fashion, she stepped forward, still staring intently, and clasps her hand to her swollen eye then tilts her head down, which caused her hair to flop over her face.

The footage then cut again to focus just on her face.

She was then seen holding what appeared to be a deck of cards, and appeared emotional like she was going to cry as the camera remained on her.

As if embarrassed, she moved her head down towards her clasped hands.

Uniformed kids: Members of what appear to be the Hitler Youth are seen in the American video

Gruesome: Bodies of soldiers and others were strewn around

The camera then panned down to show the woman's pants and suspenders, which hung around her waist.

Around 40 seconds later, after the footage cut to show a bloodied, half-naked man in a blanket laying on the ground, the woman appeared again.

She was sat amongst a group of male captives, and she held what looked like a cloth.

Despite her battered appearance, she offered a half-smile as she spoke to one of the men.

That's the last we see of the 'Lost German Girl'.

Captain Haglund remained in Germany until the end of the war in Europe.

He was discharged in December 1945 and became a TV production manager.

He died in 1972, aged 66, and he's not known to have commented on or even discussed the 'Lost German Girl' any further.

Making pictures: The filmmaker was U.S. Army captain Oren W Haglund (center), who was discharged in 1945 and became a TV production manager, before he died in 1972, aged 66

Some people who saw the footage claimed the woman was named either Lara or Lore Bauer and born in 1921. She was said to have been a helper for the German air force, the Luftwaffe.

Photos of a woman said to be Bauer looked similar to the woman in Captain Haglund's video, but there were no known documents to back up the theory that it was her.

German man Carlos Xander spent almost two years documenting his attempts to find the identity of 'Lost German Girl' on his blog of the same name.

He recounted how the first attempt to trace her in the Internet era was in 2006.

Scenes of war: Berlin fell to Russian troops on May 2, 1945, and soldiers were seen planting the Soviet flag on the roof of the Reichstag

Xander then expanded on the theory that Bauer was the Lost German Girl.

Bauer was allegedly born in Austria in 1921 and was said to have survived the war and gone on to work for U.S. airline Pan Am, retiring in 1985 and passing away in 1994.

The blogger pointed out that there were no records of the described Lore or Lara Bauer in German or Austrian archives.

Xander also recounted a 2013 post from a man who claimed that the Lost German Girl was his grandmother and she was called Mathilde.

Sleuths also traced the road that the woman was filmed walking down - between Pilsen and Rokycany - and they returned to the site to take photos and videos.
A mother-of-three has radically transformed six crumbling Italian villas she bought for just 5 all in to allow her friends and family to move in.

Rubia Daniels, 51, paid just one euro for each of her six homes in Mussomeli, Sicily, in April 2019, taking advantage of a council scheme to encourage people to renovate abandoned homes.

Admin costs, agency fees and the deeds took the cost of each property to 4,000 euros (3,400), a total of 24,000 euros (20,500).

Several of the properties were bought with fully collapsed roofs and infrastructural issues such as no water and no electricity.

But Rubia - a planning consultant by trade - used her 16 years of experience in the construction industry to break down the walls and renovate the properties.

Now, some of the six homes are reaching completion and she hopes her family and friends will move to the Mussomeli area to work and retire.

Rubia was keen to make the most of the council scheme and was one of the first to buy the homes - signing three for herself and carrying out the paperwork of one for her adopted daughter and two for her aunts.

Her two aunts, Marilu Ferreira, 70, and Marua Fatima, 82, plan to move into their homes in Mussomeli permanently for the rest of their retirement.

Rubia Daniels (pictured) paid just one euro for each of her six homes in Mussomeli, Sicily, in April 2019

She spent a total of 20,500 on her homes

Several of the properties were bought with fully collapsed roofs and infrastructural issues such as no water and no electricity

Rubia - who is originally from Brazil but has lived in San Francisco since 1996 - said: 'We bought all six in April 2019. In June, I did all the paperwork and then got the deeds later that summer.

'I packed six suitcases of all my tools and a generator, and then me, my husband and my brother-in-law, who was in Brazil, flew out to get the keys.

'The house was fully collapsed, but now it's fully renovated and has a beautiful marble bedroom.

'Once the roof was fixed and water tight, the rest of it sort of fell into place from there.

'It's been my passion and I just have so much feeling for these houses and the community as a whole.'

Rubia believes her job makes her adept to the task of converting a derelict property into a beautiful Italian home.

She said: 'I'm very comfortable with the idea of transforming things and breaking walls. When I see something fully collapsed, I can already see what's going to look like, which is not for everybody.

'For example, my husband panics when he sees me eyeing up projects like this, but for me it's just a combination of excitement and joy.

'Once the roof was fixed and water tight, the rest of it sort of fell into place from there', she said

'The house was fully collapsed, but now it's fully renovated and has a beautiful marble bedroom', she said

The living room after the renovations

She made use of a scheme set up by the local authorities to buy homes in the region

Rubia - a planning consultant by trade - used her 16 years of experience in the construction industry to break down the walls and renovate the properties

She said: 'I want to convert one of them into a wellness centre, where people can come and do yoga and meditation and the like'

'I packed six suitcases of all my tools and a generator, and then me, my husband and my brother-in-law, who was in Brazil, flew out to get the keys', she said

'When I first told my friends and family about it, they couldn't believe it.. They thought I was kidding when I said I was going to buy six', Rubia said

'We sourced all the furniture locally, everything is from that little town - the kitchen, the flooring, the mirrors, the bath and sink', she said

'But you have to see beyond the way a place looks at the start, and imagine how it's going to be in the end.

'And my 'one euro' home is exactly the way I imagined it, and I'm proud because it was a small investment.'

Rubia spent a total of 60,000 euros renovating her first purchase in Mussomeli, with the intention that she will not have to do any more work 'for 50 years'.

But she hopes she can do up each of the rest under this budget.

She said: 'I want to convert one of them into a wellness centre, where people can come and do yoga and meditation and the like - it would be nice to give back to the community this way.

'My daughter's one is almost done, we did a full remodel. I have a few changes still to make to mine, but it's my aunts which are the ones we're trying to move along the most now.

'I'm very happy I landed there and bought them early after reading an article about the project, because there are about 30 people looking at just one home now - they've increased a lot in popularity.

'When I first told my friends and family about it, they couldn't believe it.. They thought I was kidding when I said I was going to buy six.

'It can be intimidating, but you're getting the house basically for free and you can turn that into whatever you desire and it's just a really fun project - especially when your husband and entire family help out with the manual labour.'

Rubia believes her job makes her adept to the task of converting a derelict property into a beautiful Italian home

'It can be intimidating, but you're getting the house basically for free and you can turn that into whatever you desire and it's just a really fun project', she said

Rubia has massively transformed the homes she bought

'We love it here - it's much nicer than California', Rubia claimed

She said: 'I'm very comfortable with the idea of transforming things and breaking walls'

'When I see something fully collapsed, I can already see what's going to look like, which is not for everybody', she said of her work

'People actually mean it when they ask you how you are, and it's this social aspect which really attracted me to the area', Rubia said of living in Italy

'We sourced all the furniture locally, everything is from that little town - the kitchen, the flooring, the mirrors, the bath and sink.

'But we wanted to do it with the community in mind. We love it here - it's much nicer than California.

'People actually mean it when they ask you how you are, and it's this social aspect which really attracted me to the area.

'Nobody is rushing around, everything is affordable. You can eat really well with very little money - a coffee and a croissant costs Euro 1.50.

'In California, it's a very stressful environment and everything is so superficial.'
The flag carrier will operate three weekly flights from Gatwick to the pretty city

British Airways is set to launch new flights to a city known as the Gateway to Italy's prettiest region just in time for summer.

The flag carrier will operate three weekly flights to Salerno from Gatwick with the first taking off on May 22.

The new flights will be run by BA Euroflyer with return trips available from 168. Flights will depart on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Salerno Costa d'Amalfi Airport opened for commercial flights in July 2024 and offers easy access to Italy's beautiful Amalfi coast.

BA says: 'Those looking to explore the wider Amalfi Coast are drawn in by its dramatic coastline, lush scenery and the charm of its towns, such as Positano, Amalfi and Ravello, which overlook the glistening Mediterranean Sea.'

The 50km long Amalfi Coast is so spectacular it's even been awarded UNESCO status.

Fornilla Beach in Positano is one of the region's most popular and is known for its pretty black pebble shores and picturesque views.

Although Spiaggia Grande is generally more crowded than Fornilla, Positano's main beach is still worth a visit. It's backed by colourful houses and is one of the region's top sunset spots.

Salerno Costa d'Amalfi Airport opened for commercial flights in July 2024 and offers easy access to Italy's beautiful Amalfi coast

The flag carrier will operate three weekly flights to Salerno from Gatwick with the first taking off on May 22

Those looking to get their steps in can tackle 'The Path of the Gods', which Lonely Planet describes as one of Italy's 'most thrilling hikes'.

The hike weaves along the coast, passing lemon groves and olives trees and tourists can choose from several different entry and exit points.

But while many tourists fly to Salerno to access the Amalfi Coast, the city is well worth exploring.

BA says: 'Salerno itself features ocean views, lively piazzas, delicious local cuisine and historic attractions, making it a popular destination for travellers seeking a blend of beach, foodie and cultural activities in a mild, Mediterranean climate.'

The city's top landmark is the Duomo di Salerno. Dedicated to Saint Matthew, the cathedral dates back to 1085.

A tourist 'Zitatravel' wrote on Tripadvisor: 'I was blown away by the crypt and the beautiful altar. You walk down the stairs and are simply taken away by the colours of the marble and the frescos.'

Salerno's historic Old Town is another of the city's highlights. Via de Mercanti is one of the city's prettiest streets and the ideal spot to people watch.

Due to Salerno's coastal location, the city is known for its seafood with many restaurants featuring shellfish on the menu.

The 50km long Amalfi Coast is so spectacular it's even been awarded UNESCO status

BA says: 'Salerno itself features ocean views, lively piazzas, delicious local cuisine and historic attractions'

But if you're in the mood to sample an unusual delicacy, opt for the famous stuffed spleen. Usually enjoyed for the feast of Saint Matthew on September 21, the spleen is stuffed with garlic, parsley, chili pepper.

If spleen is a step too far, Salerno is also renowned for its buffalo mozzarella and scazzetta dessert.

Named after a Neapolitan dialect term for the red headdress that cardinals wear, 'scazzetta' is a circular sponge cake covered with strawberry icing. Try it at Pasticceria Pantaleone, a historic bakery in Salerno.

And if Salerno's not your cup of tea, check out the other new Italian destination that's just got direct BA flights.
If theres one person who knows a thing or two about travelling on a budget, its Alfie Watts.

On last years series of Race Across the World, the 22-year-old from St Albans and his pal Owen Wood were given a budget of just 1,100 each to make their way from northernmost Japan to the idyllic Indonesian island of Lombok.

Since winning the show and the 20,000 prize pot, Alfie has made it his mission to visit every country  and has backpacked to 78 of the 195, on a shoestring budget.

And now, in an exclusive interview with MailOnline, he has revealed his best hacks for saving money while travelling  as well as the biggest mistakes he and Owen made on Race Across the World.

Alfies first tip is to make sure you dont rely on your debit or credit card when youre abroad  especially when outside of Europe.

Exchange money while youre at home and always carry cash, the travel content creator says. In the West, we're quite used to everything being card, but that's not the case in a lot of countries  basically as soon as you get out of Europe - and ATMs, abroad, will fleece you.

Alfie also recommends comparing the total price of holidays against each other, rather than just the price of flights and accommodation.

He explains: Youll find that sometimes going long haul is actually better.

Race Across the World winner Alfie Watts, 22, tells MailOnline his best tips for travelling on a budget

Alfie (left) and Owen Wood (right) were only given 1,100 each and challenged to make their way from northernmost Japan to the idyllic Indonesian island of Lombok on last year's series of Race Across The World

Sure, flights to Thailand are 600-700, while Spain can sometimes be around 300, but if you look at the price of accommodation in Thailand, it can be 20 a night for luxury, and you can get meals for 2.

Owen and I spent less on a week in Brazil, all-in, than a week in Majorca - even though our flights were 750 quid.

The money can quickly add up when you go to Spain in peak season.

Having now become an experienced traveller since he took part in Race Across The World, Alfie thinks he and Owen could have saved so much money in so many different places if they did the trip again,

He says: I hate haggling at street markets because, youre haggling over three or four dollars, which means nothing to us, but a lot to them.

But, on Race Across The World, haggling is essential, and I just don't think we haggled well enough. I also don't think we looked to hitchhike enough. I don't think we braved crappy accommodations enough. I don't think we did enough hostels.

We could have saved money by sacrificing a little bit of comfort.

Travelling can be really easy and cheap, but us having that inexperience at the time, is what makes the show.

After racing nearly 14,000 kilometres over seven weeks and through seven countries, Alfie and Owen crossed the finish line in Lombok (pictured)

Alfie recently revealed his favourite countries of those he has visited - as well as his most overrated country.

When it comes to his favourites, Alfie has two - Jordan and Malaysia.

He said: I took my Nan to Petra because she'd wanted to see it for her whole life, so that was really nice, and the whole feeling around the trip was just really positive.

The people in Jordan are just so friendly as well.

And Malaysia is also a favourite, because it's just a cheap paradise.

But my single favourite place in the world has to be Angel Falls in Venezuela.

They're the tallest waterfall in the world, but they're completely off grid, and a nightmare to get to.
You Be The Judge: Crime & Punishment (Ch5)

Rating:

Hypocrisy is not a criminal offence. If it were, Britains jails would be overflowing with self-righteous eco-activists who think theyre better than everyone else.

Just Stop Oil protester Morgan Trowland boasted smugly, on You Be The Judge: Crime & Punishment, how hed closed the Dartford Bridge for 36 hours by scaling its cables and climbing into a hammock.

Big-nosed and bony, the archetype of a ginger-bearded Leftie, Trowland ranted about his mission to save the world by blackmailing the government until it banned oil and gas extraction.

Down below, traffic tailed back for miles, creating far more pollution than usual. Thousands missed hospital appointments, crucial meetings, exams, funerals and who knows what else.

But as presenter Anne Robinson said, Mr Trowland plainly believed that he knew better. In short, to hell with everyone else.

His double standards were exposed when he tearfully explained how he was inspired to fight climate change during a trip to India. Here, he met people whose lives were affected by, extreme heat because the weather has been ruined, in part by British people on motorways.

And how did he get to India? On his pushbike, perhaps, or on foot? Or was it on a passenger jet burning tons of fossil fuel, I wonder?

Annes one-off show, part of a week of programmes on Channel 5 about the justice system, encouraged us to think about fair sentencing. Trowland served 14 months in prison for causing a public nuisance, which seems an ineffectual sentence.

Just Stop Oil protester Morgan Trowland boasted smugly, on You Be The Judge: Crime & Punishment, how hed closed the Dartford Bridge for 36 hours by scaling its cables and climbing into a hammock

Thousands missed hospital appointments, crucial meetings, exams, funerals and who knows what else - traffic tailed back for miles, creating far more pollution than usual

Morgan Trowland was sentenced to three years in prison for causing a public nuisance

To salve his own conscience, he was willing to inflict financial losses on countless unlucky businesses and private individuals. The moral remedy would be for Trowland to repay as many of them as possible.

Any property he owns should be sold, and a swathe of his income used to reimburse his victims. And to make sure he doesnt use the penalty as an excuse to sponge off the taxpayer, he should be barred from claiming benefits for ten years. Lets see if hes still as keen to pose and preen about saving the world when its his own money hes wasting.

The other case studies in this gimmicky programme were rushed and depressing. Reconstructions of court hearings laid out the bare facts of three grim trials. In one, a teenager pleaded guilty to murdering his ex-girlfriend in her family home. In another, a thug on a drunken night out punched a stranger to death in an unprovoked attack.

The third was a horrific story of death by dangerous driving. Panels of retired detectives, former judges and ex-prisoners gave their opinions on what the punishment should be. Members of the public whod lost family members to crime also weighed in.

Presenter Anne Robinson's one-off show, part of a week of programmes on Channel 5 about the justice system, encouraged us to think about fair sentencing

Just Stop Oil protesters gathered outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London in 2023, where activists Morgan Trowland and Marcus Decker appealed their jail sentences

In every instance, the killers sentence was shorter than anyone expected. Unbelievably, the drunk who admitted manslaughter spent just nine months in prison.

He even claimed he was suffering post-traumatic stress disorder  because hed killed a man. Wheres the justice?
It's been nearly 18 years since HBO's The Sopranos ended with one of the most controversial series finales of all time, with star Lorraine Bracco revealing how her co-star James Gandolfini really thought of the ending.

The series was a massive hit for HBO, following Gandolfini's Tony Soprano and his New Jersey mafia family, running six seasons spanning 86 episodes.

Bracco, 70, played Tony Soprano's psychiatrist, Jennifer Melfi, throughout the show's run, where it amassed 21 Emmys and is credited for starting the Second Golden Age of Television.

For as popular and beloved as the series was, the finale, written and directed by series creator David Chase, is still among the most controversial of all time.

The final scene takes place at Holsten's diner in New Jersey, where Tony is in a booth with his family, his eyes darting to the door every time the bell rings when someone enters.

Bracco was promoting her new Netflix film Nonnas, when Fallon asked her to clear up a rumor that she didn't love The Sopranos ending, revealing her co-star Gandolfini's stunned two-word response: 'That's it?"

It's been nearly 18 years since HBO 's The Sopranos ended with one of the most controversial series finales of all time, with star Lorraine Bracco revealing how her co-star James Gandolfini really thought of the ending.

Bracco, 70, played Tony Soprano's psychiatrist, Jennifer Melfi, throughout the show's run, where it amassed 21 Emmys and is credited for starting the Second Golden Age of Television.

The final scene shows Tony waiting at Holsten's, ultimately joined one-by-one by his wife Carmela (Edie Falco) and son A.J. (Robert Iler) as Journey's Don't Stop Believin' is playing at the table's jukebox, while he keeps eyeing the door every time it opens and the bell rings.

They're waiting for his daughter Meadow (Jamie Lynn Sigler), who is running towards the diner, the bell rings one last time as he looks up, and the show ends abruptly with a final cut to black that the show's legions of fans did not see coming.

While the ending didn't sit well with many of the show's fans, it apparently also didn't sit well with Gandolfini himself, according to Bracco.

'I'll tell you the truth, I was sitting next to Jimmy Gandolfini. And he just went like this,' as she stands up to mimic the actor, quoting him stating, 'That's it? That's it?'

She added, 'And you know how he always used to push his hair back, and he just walked out. He was like, "That's it?" He couldn't believe it. I said, "Yeah, I guess that's it.'

Bracco didn't seem to be a fan of it herself, though she admitted, 'You know, the only thing I can say is people are still talking about it. So, I guess David did do something interesting.'

Holsten's is a real diner Bloomfield, New Jersey, which auctioned off the same booth The Sopranos sat in for over $82K last year.

Creator David Chase has never confirmed whether Tony Soprano lived or died after the infamous cut to black, though he did open up in 2021 about how surprised he was about the uproar over the final shot.

The final scene shows Tony waiting at Holsten's, ultimately joined one-by-one by his wife Carmela (Edie Falco) and son A.J. (Robert Iler) as Journey's Don't Stop Believin' is playing at the table's jukebox, while he keeps eyeing the door every time it opens and the bell rings

' I'll tell you the truth, I was sitting next to Jimmy Gandolfini. And he just went like this,' as she stands up to mimic the actor, quoting him stating, 'That's it? That's it?'

She added, 'And you know how he always used to push his hair back, and he just walked out. He was like, "That's it?" He couldn't believe it. I said, "Yeah, I guess that's it.'

Bracco didn't seem to be a fan of it herself, though she admitted, 'You know, the only thing I can say is people are still talking about it. So, I guess David did do something interesting.'

'I had no idea it would cause that much  I mean, I forget what was going on in Iraq or someplace; London had been bombed! Nobody was talking about that; they were talking about The Sopranos,' he told THR.

'It was kind of incredible to me. But I had no idea it would be that much of an uproar. And was it annoying? What was annoying was how many people wanted to see Tony killed. That bothered me,' he added.

'They wanted to know that Tony was killed. They wanted to see him go face-down in linguini, you know? And I just thought, God, you watched this guy for seven years and I know hes a criminal. But dont tell me you dont love him in some way, dont tell me youre not on his side in some way,' he said.

'"And now you want to see him killed? You want justice done? Youre a criminal after watching this s**t for seven years. That bothered me, yeah,' he admitted.
Ross Kemp broke down in tears as he unearthed a family secret that he spent his whole life questioning on Tuesday's episode of Who Do You Think You Are?

The actor, 60, is one of the stars taking part in the latest series of the genealogy documentary series.

And the latest instalment saw the star - who is arguably best known for playing Grant Mitchell in EastEnders - find out about his family history.

During his time on the show Ross was on a mission to find out about his mum's side, including his great-grandad, who was known in the clan as Pop, who had 10 other siblings and lived in a pub in Portsmouth as a youngster.

Ross recalled a moment that his mum had told him that her dad had turned up at the door wearing a US uniform, and everyone assumed that he had been shipwrecked in the southern China sea, but the soap star found out exactly what had happened to him.

The voice over explained: 'On 11 July 1943 Pops troop ship the Duchess of York and her convoy were over 300 miles off the Portuguese coast when three German air force planes took off from France and headed towards them.'

Ross Kemp breaks down in tears unearthing family secret he spent his whole life questioning on Who Do You Think You Are?

The actor, 60 - who is arguably best known for playing Grant Mitchell in EastEnders - is one of the stars taking part in the latest series of the genealogy documentary series

Ross met up with historian Sarah Louise Miller and she told him that the ship was hit twice, her engines were put out of order and she ended up catching fire.

As Louise explained what had happened, Ross became very emotional and wiped a tear from his face and she said although they were off the ship, they still weren't safe.

Ross told Louise: 'Sorry I'm getting emotional.'

'It would have been a very scary situation,' she told him.

As his voice cracked, Ross asked: 'But he survived, yeah?' Louise replied: 'He did survive.'

The voice over explained: '89 lives were lost from the Duchess of York that night.

'And the next day, her destroyed hulk was sunk to the bottom of the sea. Now in one of the escort vessels who rescued him... Pop was still a target.

'He and the other survivors had little choice but to risk a 700-mile sea voyage to Casablanca, the largest nearby port under Allied control.'

During his time on the show Ross was on a mission to find out about his mum's side, including his great-grandad, who was known in the clan as Pop, who had 10 other siblings and lived in a pub in Portsmouth as a youngster

After finding out the truth, Ross said: 'I know it sounds like I'm smiling about the was shipwrecked, but I was questioning if that actually ever happened!'

He added: 'It's very odd. I make lots of documentaries around the whole about a lot of stuff but when it's about you or your family, it has a very different impact.

'It really does. Oh Pop, what a life he had.'

Speaking to the camera Ross said: 'It's such a complex feeling to think about somebody who I was told about all my life by my grandmother, and by my mother, had been this kind of interesting, traveler and there are similarities that I'm drawing from understanding him that I see in myself.

'His life was all about him doing what he warned to do most of the time.

'So I'm finding out basically from my great grandfather, a lot about me.'

It comes after Andrew Garfield broke down in tears at the grave of his ancestors who were 'deemed so valueless' after harrowing revelation last week.

Spider-man legend Andrew, who grew up between Los Angeles and London, was intrigued to find out more about his dad's side of the family, who come from Poland.

During the episode, Andrew got very emotional when he visited a memorial grave site in remembrance of those who died at the Treblinka extermination camp near the village of Treblinka, Poland.

His Jewish great-grandfather Ludwig Garfinkel's three sisters didn't manage to escape and he placed three stones on a gravestone marked Kielce, which is where they were from.

Fighting back the tears, Andrew said: 'This is a memorial stone for the Jews from Kielce that met their ultimate fate here in Treblinka, which my great-grandfather's three sisters, we imagine, had to have been murdered.

'Szajndia, Dworja, Basia. Their lives were deemed so valueless and the Nazis attempted to erase even the memory of them, even their names, even any record of them.

'And they had succeeded in certain ways.

'They were just normal girls, they were just normal women who just wanted a life, they wanted to live, to thrive, but this journey that we've been on has recovered my memory of them and my family's memory of them and I'm grateful for that.

'I wish I had known you better, I wish you peace.'

Who Do You Think You Are? airs on BBC One and is available to stream on iPlayer.
A man was revealed how he was left homeless after the woman he thought he'd retire with conned him out of an eye-watering 85,000.

Roderick Lodge, 70, opened up about his horrific experience to hosts Cat Deeley, 48, and Ben Shephard, 50, on Wednesday's instalment of This Morning.

He shared how he tragically lost his wife of 25 years and had lived in Kenya on and off since 1991 due to his job with the UN.

Roderick explained: 'I went back to Kenya as I had lots of friends there and I met this lady and quite quickly we became intimate and I thought she was going to be part of my life.'

Eventually the woman asked if she could put her friend in touch with Roderick and they 'started to chat every day'.

'Within three or four months it was going further, even though I hadn't met her I started thinking of marriage,' Roderick admitted.

Roderick Lodge (pictured), 70, opened up about his horrific experience to hosts Cat Deeley , 48, and Ben Shephard , 50, on Wednesday's instalment of This Morning

He shared how he tragically lost his wife of 25 years and had lived in Kenya since 1991 with the UN

Eventually the woman asked if she could put her friend in touch with Roderick and they 'started to chat every day'. Pictured: Hosts Ben and Cat

However, despite Roderick staying with friends in Kenya, the woman, called Anita, he was speaking to would not come and meet him, despite him 'sending more and more money'.

'The original lady had told me Anita, this lady, she had got a beauty business, had 30 employees, had two cars,' he explained.

'She said she had built a house,' Roderick shared, but needed money to do it up. He admitted: 'It ended up in total about 85,000.'

Friends had warned Roderick to 'think about it' and were concerned.

'But it wasn't until May last year that I said 'enough',' he shared.

'The last thing was her dad was in hospital and needed cancer treatment, more money.'

When Roderick's friends checked the hospital there was 'no such person'.

But by the time Roderick had realised the woman didn't exist, he didn't have enough money left to return home.

However, despite Roderick staying with friends in Kenya, the woman, called Anita, he was speaking to would not come and meet him but he 'was sending more and more money'

'She said he had built a house' Roderick shared but needed money to do it up. He admitted: 'It ended up in total about 85,000.'

'I've been very lucky with my years in aviation that I have a very good core of friends, and lots of my mates  one very good friend of mine clubbed together with the boys to get me a ticket home,' he said.

When Roderick arrived in the UK, he found it difficult to get back onto his feet.

'I went on the streets for two weeks because I couldn't actually find a location that would allow me to go into the system of being without a house,' he revealed.

He spent two months in a hostel and explained: 'I still had to pay but thank God I've got a few pensions, but I basically live from month to month.'

Roderick opened an investigation with the Kenyan police but said: The problem with Kenya, its a good country but unfortunately you need money to get things done.

'We know where the original lady lives. The police warned me not to go there because she could say I was intimidating her and take a case against me.'

The 70-year-old said: 'I've lost my future. I can't even afford an air fare to Kenya, I wanted to retire there.'

During the conversation, Ben shared that Halifax bank said they questioned the payments Roderick was making on multiple occasions and the legitimacy of Anita.

But by the time Roderick had realised the woman didn't exist, he didn't have enough money left to return home

Head of Trading Standards Scam Team Louise Baxter (right) was also on the show and described the situation as 'emotional abuse'

They said they gave guidance on romance scams and spoke to Roderick on multiple occasions, expressing concern about the payments.

Despite the warnings, Roderick explained, 'because the contact came through the first lady I thought it couldn't be the case.

Head of Trading Standards Scam Team Louise Baxter was also on the show and described the situation as 'emotional abuse'.

She said: 'He was controlled and manipulated. We have to be kinder to victims. The only way we're going to deal with it is by driving reporting up.'

This Morning airs weekdays at 10am on ITV1 and streams on ITVX.
Kirsty Wark stood down as presenter of Newsnight after 30 years back in July last year, and now after nine months the BBC have finally confirmed her replacements.

The BBC stalwart, who presented on Thursdays and Fridays, has been replaced by two men.

On Thursdays, BBC Radio 4 presenter Paddy OConnell will host, while BBC 5 Live broadcaster Matt Chorley will step in on Fridays.

They will join Victoria Derbyshire, 56, who is the lead presenter of the late night politics programme hosting Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

The pair join an illustrious list of prominent journalists who have presented Newsnight including Jeremy Paxman, Emily Maitlis and Evan Davis.

Chorley, 42, who was the political editor of MailOnline from 2012 to 2015, is a stand-up comedian who joined BBC 5Live last year, after he was poached from rival Times Radio.

Kirsty Wark stood down as presenter of Newsnight after 30 years back in July last year, and now after nine months the BBC have finally confirmed her replacements

On Thursdays, BBC Radio 4 presenter Paddy OConnell (right) will host, while BBC 5 Live broadcaster Matt Chorley (left) will step in on Fridays

They will join Victoria Derbyshire , 56, who is the lead presenter of the late night politics programme hosting Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays

He said: I'm so excited to be joining Newsnight, a programme with such an incredible history which has been reinvented by Victoria and the brilliant team in the last year.

If you've ever shouted at the news well what does that mean? the moment you hear that electric guitar of the Newsnight theme, you know you're going to get answers.

After spending the week skulking about in Westminster, what better way to spend Friday night than passing on all the gossip and intrigue I've picked up, joined by smart, funny and surprising guests?

O'Connell, 59, will already be familiar to listeners of BBC Radio 4 where he presents the live Sunday morning show Broadcasting House. He also presents Newscast on BBC Sounds at the weekend with Laura Kuenssberg.

Newsnight marks his return to BBC Two where he previously anchored Working Lunch and Battle Of The Brains. He also provided commentary for the VE Day parade.

He said: Newsnight is the programme I've watched since I was eighteen and I'm awed to be joining the team growing the audience with the cracking work of Victoria Derbyshire.

Ten thirty pm is now the breaking news hour for the new world order, and Ill be there every Thursday in a frenzied news cycle turning to the best guests as we're all looking for answers.

Jonathan Aspinwall, Executive Editor of Newsnight, said: I'm thrilled to welcome Paddy and Matt to the Newsnight presenter team alongside Victoria Derbyshire.

With their sharp insights, expertise, and unique personalities, they'll add depth and flair to the biggest stories of the day.

They join the programme at an exciting time, with our TV audience growing by over thirty percent. Newsnight's smart analysis and forensic interviews continue to reach more people across all our platforms.

I'm excited to see Paddy and Matt join Victoria as we celebrate 45 years of Newsnight.

Both presenters have been presenting on the show on an ad hoc basis since the departure of Kirsty Wark in July, but have now been confirmed as her permanent replacements.

Both presenters have been presenting on the show on an ad hoc basis since the departure of Kirsty Wark in July

The pair join an illustrious list of prominent journalists who have presented Newsnight including Jeremy Paxman , Emily Maitlis and Evan Davis

Past and serving presenters celebrated Newsnight's 30th anniversary in 2022. Left to right, standing: Kirsty Wark, Emily Maitlis, Olivia O'Leary, Jeremy Paxman, Gavin Esler, Francine Stock, John Tusa and Sue Cameron. Sitting: Martha Kearney and Peter Snow

Victoria will continue to present Monday to Wednesday with insights from Newsnights Political Editor, Nick Watt. Faisal Islam and Katie Razzall will also continue to present regularly.

Last May the political show changed its format to focus more on live insights and interviews, and less on expensive investigations and pre-recorded VTs.

It comes as Wark spoke out last month against the rise of opinionated presenters at the BBC, insisting it is not the role of broadcasters to share personal views.

The 70-year-old TV presenter, who stepped down from Newsnight last year after three decades on the programme, said: We are not the story, and called for the BBC to remain a trusted friend amid ongoing debate over impartiality.

Her remarks, made on The Spectators Women With Balls podcast, come in the wake of controversy surrounding Gary Linekers political commentary on social media, and wider concerns about personality-led journalism on Radio 4s Today programme.

The Match of the Day host faced disciplinary action in 2023 after describing the Conservative governments immigration policy as immeasurably cruel and likening the language used to that of 1930s Germany.

The row prompted a review of the BBCs social media guidelines, with new rules requiring all presenters - not only those in news and current affairs - to observe impartiality.

Wark did not name specific colleagues but questioned the growing trend of presenters bringing personal perspectives into broadcasts.
Race Across The World's Gaz left his ex-wife Yin emotional with a heart-wrenching confession live on Lorraine.

Ranvir Singh stepped in for Lorraine and hosted the ITV morning show on Tuesday.

She welcomed former married couple Gaz and Yin who were one of the five sets of contestants participating on the current season of BBC show, Race Across The World.

The programme sees the pairs go head to head in a 14,000 kilometers race across China, Nepal and India for a huge cash prize.

Yin and Gaz joined competed against sisters, Elizabeth and Letitia; brothers, Brian and Melvyn; teenage couple, Fin and Sioned and mother and son, Caroline and Tom who are all trying to bag the 20,000.

The pair have been separated for three years and at one point during the interview, discussed their marriage breakdown on Lorraine.

Race Across The World's Gaz (pictured) left his ex-wife Yin emotional with a heart-wrenching confession live on Lorraine

Ranvir Singh, left, welcomed former married couple Gaz and Yin who were one of the five sets of contestants participating on the current season of BBC show, Race Across The World

The pair have been separated for three years and at one point during the interview, discussed their marriage breakdown on Lorraine

Gaz reflected: 'Like all break ups it was hard, I'm of that generation where what do you do? You try and blank it out, have a few beers and sort of forget about it.'

He admitted that Yin 'helped' him and explained: 'She's an amazing person and I don't think I would be here if it wasn't for Yin.

'It wasn't that bad but it got to the point where I didn't like myself, I didn't like what I was doing, I just didn't want to be around anybody, very insular.

'Yin was the one that kept pushing me.'

Yin appeared to be emotional as she interjected with praise for her former husband and said: 'He put in so much hard work and I'm just so proud of him.'

It comes after Race Across The World fans begged the former couple to get back together.

A previous episode saw Gaz and Yin run a noodle restaurant together in China.

During the instalment, they reflected on the breakdown of their relationship and Gaz said: 'Being married to Yin was amazing. I did feel there's security being married because you're a unit, you're together.

On Lorraine, Gaz admitted that Yin 'helped' him and explained: 'She's an amazing person and I don't think I would be here if it wasn't for Yin.'

It comes after Race Across The World fans begged the former couple to get back together

'But the breakdown in the relationship was because I became lazy, I took Yin for granted. Even to this day I blame myself.'

He revealed that he 'didn't cope with the breakdown of the relationship at all well'.

Gaz added: 'I became insular. It was hard and I didn't like it at all. What do you do? Lets go down the pub and have six pints of Guinness and forget about it.'

Despite any difficulties, Yin still admired Gaz for his charming ways and confidence.

'That's one of the things that I miss about Gaz. That's the charm that hooked me in,' she commented.

Some viewers think the former couple share 'unmatched chemistry' and took to social media to share their thoughts.

Many posted on X: 'Race across the world participants Gaz and Yin anyone think they still love each other?'

'We all are rooting for Gaz and Yin to get back together, the sisters to win, and the baby Welshies to build the courage to book a train ticket, right?'

'Sorry can Yin and Gaz get back together now please.'

'The show is recorded so the contestants are probably watching. It would be nice to think that Yin and Gaz are sat watching this together as a couple. I can hope.'

A previous episode saw Gaz and Yin run a noodle restaurant together in China. During the instalment, they reflected on the breakdown of their relationship

Some viewers think the former couple share 'unmatched chemistry' and took to social media to share their thoughts

'Am I the only one secretly shipping Gaz & Yin for a reunion?'

'Yin and Gaz, if you're out there in Twitter land, please tell us you're back together!'

'Yin and Gaz have to get back together right? Like the chemistry between them is unmatched!'

While someone else said: 'Whether or not Gaz and Yin's relationship is purely platonic or not, is their business.

'It's just nice to see an ex married couple without spite and malice, support one another. Their dynamic is fascinating to me.'
He kickstarted his career in the comedy scene by mocking news stories and satirising the press.

But now Nish Kumar has received a huge blow after his journalism documentary series was axed by Sky after just two seasons.

Hold The Front Page saw the comic join Josh Widdicombe in a journey across the country, paying visits to various local newspapers.

The duo attempted to find local news stories in each area including Blackpool, Bradford and the Isle of Wight.

Their journalistic career appears to have come to a premature end, however, after Sky Max canned their show with no plans for more seasons.

A TV insider told The Sun: 'The irony of the scenario is not lost on the creative team behind the show, because as a comedian involved in satire Josh is often making swipes at the media.

Nish Kumar has received a huge blow after his journalism documentary series with Josh Widdicombe was axed by Sky after just two seasons (pictured on the show)

Hold The Front Page saw the comic join Josh Widdicombe in a journey across the country, paying visits to various local newspapers (pictured in Bradford)

Their journalistic career appears to have come to a premature end, however, after Sky Max canned their show with no plans for more seasons (pictured in Newport)

'But he got a taste of what its like to have to report on what's going on and realised just what a tough job it can be - particularly when you have to start out in the local press.'

During his time touring the UK's regional news offices, Nish, who is most famous for fronting the Mash Report, reported on local operas, spicy curries and a church of wrestling.

The audience remained low, however, spelling the end of the documentary series.

And viewers have previously taken to review site IMDb, penning mixed feedback on the show, giving it an average 5.8/10 rating.

'Feels like it could have a better balance of Nish and Josh doing fun stuff, and coverage of the journalism aspect. By the second episode it also starts to feel too scripted.'

'I badly wanted to enjoy this, but, unfortunately it just doesn't work, and for the most part, it was excruciating viewing.

'I am a big fan of Nish Kumar and Josh Widdicombe has his moments, but come on, the pair spent their entire time being too clever, too smug, what happened here guys, you're way better than this.'

Viewers have previously taken to review site IMDb, penning mixed feedback on the show, giving it an average 5.8/10 rating

'This show is an easy watch but it is not real, it's corny, staged and too produced, instead of making an effort and making a show on this premise feel original and fresh they took the untalented predictable and stale route.'

But others were more positive and will be disappointed to learn that the show has been cut.

'2 saves the day... the chemistry between the two leads has developed to a point where their bantering is now genuinely funny and some of the one-liners are laugh out loud.'

'I like both comedians anyway so thought I'd give this a try. It was good fun so I binge watched them all.

'It actually gave a really good account of how hard it is to be a journalist in today's fast paced way of life and some of the scenes were laugh out loud funny.'

It's the latest blow for Nish after the BBC axed his Mash Report in 2021, adding it was 'very proud' of the programme.

The show, a satirical take on the week's news which featured Rachel Parris, first aired in 2017.

Nish hit back at the broadcaster's decision to cancel the programme, posting a picture of himself in front of the words 'Boris Johnson is a liar and a racist'.

The comedian captioned his tweet: 'A lot of people asking me for a comment and here it is.'

It's the latest blow for Nish after the BBC axed his Mash Report in 2021, adding it was 'very proud' of the programme

The show, a satirical take on the week's news which featured Rachel Parris, first aired in 2017

The BBC said in a statement: 'We are very proud of The Mash Report but, in order to make room for new comedy shows, we sometimes have to make difficult decisions and it won't be returning.

'We would like to thank all those involved in four brilliant series and hope to work with Nish Kumar, Rachel Parris and the team in the future.'

In 2018, broadcaster Andrew Neil singled out the satire show while complaining that the corporation's comedy output was too left-wing.

He called the BBC Two programme 'self-satisfied, self-adulatory, unchallenged left-wing propaganda'.
The Repair Shop: VE Day Special (BBC1)

Rating:

Silence can speak volumes. We'll hear a lot of heartfelt words today as politicians and presenters try to express the deep debt of gratitude we all owe to the wartime generation.

But as eloquent as any oratory was the stunned silence on The Repair Shop: VE Day Special, as a man named Eddy was presented with a display case for his father's World War II medals and memorabilia.

Eddy was literally speechless, for several seconds, struck dumb by the emotion of the moment.

He couldn't move or utter a sound. And yet, when he first brought his dad John's moth-eaten RAF hat into the barn, he was articulate and considered, not a man easily lost for words.

John, who voyaged from his native Sierra Leone to volunteer for Bomber Command in 1939, was a trailblazer  one of the first black officers in the Royal Air Force.

Serving as a navigator, he was shot down over Ger-many and, badly injured, bailed out of the blazing plane. After being captured, he spent 18 months as a prisoner of war.

On The Repair Shop: VE Day Special, a man named Eddy was presented with a display case for his father's World War II medals and memorabilia (Pictured: experts Jayesh Vaghela, Julie Tatchell, Dominic Chinea, Amanda Middleditch, Will Kirk, Steve Fletcher)

Christopher Stevens described the VE Day special as 'the best episode of The Repair Shop in its eight-year history'

The hat, said Eddy, 'is part of him. If it looked in better condition, myself and my family will be over the moon. It deserves better. It's making sure that the suffering our fathers and grandfathers went through, to make sure that we could be free today, is never ever lost.'

Presenter Dominic Chinea echoed that sentiment as he placed John's hat, beautifully restored, in a glass-topped cabinet beside his military MBE and other decorations.

It made him think, Dom said, 'about how fortunate we all are now and how much freedom we have. It is really all thanks to his generation and everything they sacrificed.'

For sheer emotional impact, this might have been the best episode of The Repair Shop in its eight-year history. Wartime refugee Ruth brought a battered plastic doll that was her constant companion as she fled Vienna, aged two-and-a-half, in 1939.

With astonishing bravery, a British mother of four children journeyed to Austria to save Ruth from being sent to a concentration camp.

The doll's plastic limbs were disintegrating, and it was missing one leg altogether. Seeing how the damage could be repaired with cellulose, acetone and a wax mould was both a chemistry lesson and a marvel of craftsmanship.

Royal Navy veteran John (pictured), aged 101, served during the war as an aircraft engineer on board the carrier HMS Formidable

John Holloway pictured with Repair Shop regulars Will Kirk and Steve Fletcher

The most touching story of all was also the most mundane. Royal Navy veteran John, aged 101, served during the war as an aircraft engineer on board the carrier HMS Formidable.

He kept a discarded clock from a cockpit as a souvenir, and gave it to his new wife, Connie, for their first Christmas in 1947. During 66 years of marriage, Connie never went to sleep without the clock beside her, until she died.

Now that it has been restored, John said, 'I can put this on my bedside table and every night I can say, 'Goodnight Con, God bless you, love you.'

By now, I have to admit, I was weeping.
Cher's troubled son Elijah Blue Allman is no stranger to the depths of addiction despair and relationship turmoil as he's battled his cruel demons.

Yet he has never appeared to be this rock bottom: a shambling, zombie-like disheveled ruin, as revealed in astonishing exclusive Daily Mail pictures and shocking video footage.

With a vacant expression, sores on his puffed-up legs and sweat-stained clothes that look like they were rescued from a dumpster, Allman was a heartbreaking sight outside the exclusive Chateau Marmont Hotel in Los Angeles where he's staying.

The 48-year-old musician  currently in the midst of a new divorce battle with estranged wife Marieangela 'Queenie' King  put on a bizarre display captured in one video clip, standing unsteadily beside the wall at the hotel entrance at night.

Allman appears to be staring intently ahead as guests arrive at the celebrity-packed property, rocking gently back and forth for about 40 seconds.

He sways isolated from others while wearing bizarre green shorts that droop way below his crotch area and cover his knees, set off by a darker and dirty ragged green t-shirt hanging off one shoulder and a rectangular tattoo on his left bicep.

Troubling new photos reveal Cher's son Elijah Blue Allman is tragically in the throes of addiction again, barely a year after she gave up on her bid for his conservatorship

Dressed in sweat-stained, grubby clothing, Allman was seen sporting sores on his puffed-up legs, tobacco-stained fingers, and one long pointed polished finger nail on his right hand

In clearer exclusive photos of the same night, sweat pours off his unshaven and blotched face while two red marks are above his left hand where a chunky ring sits on his forefinger.

On his other hand, one nail is super long and painted red. Adorning his feet are white-soled black canvas shoes, with one of the backs crumpled under his heel.

Back in the video, he suddenly moves to the left while keeping his gaze firmly fixed ahead. But his bulky frame trips slightly as he appears to be acting on the something that sparked his curiosity.

Leaning forward, he then shuffles shambolically across the entrance while maintaining the stare before arriving at the concierge kiosk.

Just as weirdly, he suddenly loses interest and veers into the hotel, passing an elegantly dressed woman on the way.

Allman, who was also locked in a court battle with Cher over her failed bid to win conservatorship over him, managed a conversation in another clip with one of the concierge staff near the kiosk, one of his favorite haunts.

In separate video footage, Allman managed a conversation in another clip with one of the concierge staff near the kiosk, one of his favorite haunts

Constantly dragging on a cigarette, he appeared slightly more presentable but looked befuddled during conversation

Allman is back to living at the famed Chateau Marmont hotel in Los Angeles, where he was found passed out in 2023, prompting his mother to intervene

Constantly dragging on a cigarette held in his grossly nicotine-stained fingers, he was slightly better dressed this time in a black ripped shirt, long pants, and with a satchel bag slung over his shoulder.

However, the former Deadsy guitarist's ability to speak deserts him entirely after being approached and asked if he is still making music.

Looking befuddled by the simple question, his lips move several times, his eyes blink then go into a distant stare and his face collapses into a childlike grin as he drags heavily once more on a cigarette before leaving.

The startling decline of Allman, born to 78-year-old Cher during her second marriage to guitar great Gregg Allman, is in stark contrast to photos of just eight months ago.

In August last year, the Daily Mail exclusively pictured him at the same $800-a-night hotel sipping what appeared to be cocktails with a mystery blonde woman.

Described at the time as a recovering addict, he was sporting longer hair and dressed in a bizarre vestment-style robe  although did not seem disheveled.

In one photo of the 2024 stay he appeared to be wearing the same green pants and canvas shoes as in our latest shots.

Not too long ago, Allman, who has a history of drug addiction, was locked in a court battle with his famous mother over her failed bid to win conservatorship over him. His now estranged wife Marieangela 'Queenie' King had supported him in the legal fight in 2024 (pictured)

Cher had argued in her petition to the court that Elijah's drug addiction makes him unable to manage his trust fund. She ultimately withdrew the petition in September 2024

He checked into the Marmont with a male friend on that occasion, booking separate rooms a year after living there the previous summer before a spell in rehab.

An onlooker told the Daily Mail at the time: 'Elijah is back and looks a lot better than last year around the same time when he passed out on the sidewalk in front of the hotel.'

The source added Allman 'spent most of the time at the pool chain-smoking with his friend. Every night in the early evening his friend would drive him somewhere for a couple hours.

'And then like clockwork, a blonde woman who looked to be in her early 30s would come visit Elijah at about 7pm every night and stay until about 10.30pm.'

Another photo of Allman, this time with now estranged spouse King and taken in 2024, shows him neatly attired in dress pants, crisp shirt, puffed jacket and slicked back hair.

However, fresh turmoil has overtaken his life since then and has clearly taken its destructive toll.

Much of the tension between Cher and Elijah has stemmed from his estranged wife Marieangela King (pictured in 2018)

Allman and King were in the midst of separating but dismissed their divorce action in early January 2024 amid his legal battle with his mother. King has since filed for divorce again in April

His 37-year-old British rocker wife filed for divorce again in April this year, citing irreconcilable differences and noting March 31 as the date of their separation.

She is seeking at least $6,000 a month in spousal support from Allman, who has a trust fund of $120,000 a year left by his father who died in 2017.

The childless couple wed in 2013 but the relationship has been stormy, with King first filing for divorce in 2021 before they patched things up.

Meanwhile, singing legend Cher has had a tumultuous relationship with both Elijah and her daughter in law, who her son met in Germany during treatment for Lyme Disease.

She reportedly didn't congratulate the newlyweds after they eloped and earlier refused to acknowledge their engagement.

Cher, who shot to fame as a singing duet with first husband Sonny Bono, is also reported to have gone long periods without speaking to Allman, who she packed off to boarding school when he was eight.

His 37-year-old British rocker wife filed for divorce again in April this year, citing irreconcilable differences and noting March 31 as the date of their separation

The childless couple wed in 2013 but the relationship has been stormy, with King first filing for divorce in 2021 before they patched things up

Additional rancor in the mix has been fueled by Cher's 2023 bid to gain conservatorship of Allman, claiming concerns about his mental health and substance abuse.

But her attempt to win legal control over his financial and personal affairs foundered in court and Cher dropped the bid in September 2024.

She had insisted Allman's past drug addiction, plus mental and physical health issues, made him incapable of managing his annual $120,000.

She said she feared he would spend his $30,000 quarterly payouts on drugs, putting his life in jeopardy.

Cher alleged in documents that King had not been 'supportive of Elijah's recovery and actively works to keep Elijah from getting clean and sober or receiving mental health treatment that he desperately needs'.

Cher has been romantically linked to music executive Alexander Edwards  who at 38 is 40 years her junior  since 2022

Pictured: Cher with eldest son (now Chaz Bono) and Elijah in 1981

Amid all that, King claimed that Cher had hired four men to kidnap Allman from a New York hotel room in November 2022 while the pair were trying to patch up their marriage  later forcing him into rehab in Mexico. Cher has denied the allegation.

Allman told the conservatorship judge he had been sober from illicit substances for more than 90 days.

Hitting back, he blasted Cher as 'misguided' and 'unfit' to control a conservatorship.

'I have seen her suffer with depression in the past and I do not believe that she is capable of making appropriate decisions for my estate,' he said in court documents.

'I do not need a conservatorship. The only person who can save me from my demons is me  and I'm doing just that.'

Judging by our exclusive photos and videos, that battle is apparently still raging.
Fans are convinced Blake Lively is to blame for a ridiculous hat she wore in her new movie - after she was accused of a wardrobe takeover on It Ends With Us.

In her spiraling legal battle with her It Ends With Us co-star and director Justin Baldoni, one of the blizzard of claims and counterclaims is that Lively commandeered control of the movie, particularly her clothes.

She is said to have demanded a full revamp of her wardrobe near the start of production, to the point the costume budget supposedly snowballed to $600,000.

Now under the cloud of her feud with Baldoni, Lively has seen the release of her new movie Another Simple Favor, the sequel to her 2018 hit crime comedy A Simple Favor.

A clip from the movie has gone viral of Lively wearing an absurdly extravagant wide-brimmed hat during a scene with her co-star Anna Kendrick - with whom she was rumored not to get along behind the scenes.

'Blake I know you had EVERYTHING to do with this hat,' wrote a viewer who posted the footage to TIkTok - and the suspicion turned out to be correct, as Lively revealed in March that she selected the costume piece herself from a shop in Italy.

Fans are convinced Blake Lively is to blame for a ridiculous hat she wore in her new movie - after she was accused of a wardrobe takeover on It Ends With Us

'I need an SNL skit where the hat keeps growing,' joked one TikToker, as another quipped: 'That Jesus from Ana Kendrick was actually improvised.'

'She wants a Grace Kelly old Hollywood moment so bad,' observed a commenter, another vamped: '4 crew members starved because of that hat' and a third posted in astonishment: 'this ISNT satire?!'

'Can you imagine being Anna Kendrick trying to work with her on this movie?!?' marveled one viewer. 'I have no doubt the looks on her face are real AF!'

While premiering the movie onstage at the South By Southwest Film Festival in March, Lively revealed that she found the sunhat at a shop called Fiore in Capri, where Another Simple Favor was filmed.

'That crazy, beautiful hat was just a hat they sell in the store. Humans buy that! It's amazing,' Lively quipped to the audience.

During the same festival, the movie's director Paul Feig gushed over Lively's contribution of a 'big a** sunhat' to the character's costumes.

'She came back and said: "I just bought this hat. Can we put it in the movie? Thats definitely going in the movie. You kidding me?' he said, via The Hollywood Reporter.

'And my favorite thing is how she navigates the street with it. Theres one shot where shes walking past the camera and, as she goes by, she lifts it up so you can see her face. Im like: "You are such a f***ing movie star."'

A clip from the movie has gone viral of Lively wearing an absurdly extravagant wide-brimmed hat during a scene with her co-star Anna Kendrick

While premiering the movie onstage at the South By Southwest Film Festival in March, Lively revealed that she found the sunhat at a shop called Fiore in Capri

'I need an SNL skit where the hat keeps growing,' joked one TikToker, as another quipped: 'That Jesus from Ana Kendrick was actually improvised'

After the hat went viral on TikTok this week, the film's costume designer Renee Ehrlich Kalfus shared that Lively found the sunhat used in the movie after a few other options had already been lined up.

'We had smaller hats, and she somehow found that one in the corner of this tiny little place, that gigantic hat,' Kalfus told People.

'Those are the sort of serendipitous moments that come about. If you stay flexible and open and you see something, why not?

The viral moment came in the wake of Baldoni's allegations that Lively was 'ignoring the directors vision for her character and disposing of the weeks of effort and creativity spent by the wardrobe team on shopping and carefully crafting her wardrobe' and 'sent hundreds of images to the Films costume designer'... depicting the style of wardrobe she wanted for her character.'

Court papers claim the costume designer had to 're-shop Livelys wardrobe, far exceeding the allocated bdget and diverting time and resources, while also preparing wardrobes for the rest of the cast.'

She also reportedly wanted to spend $5,000 on shoes to show her character 'had money' - despite being a fledgling small business owner - and her changes meant that Baldoni was 'forced to rethink an entire script that had been in the works for years'.

A message from the Line Producer on the film dated April 25 2023 reads: 'Wardrobe's budget for spending is $185k.

'Normally wardrobe overspends and then does tons of returns and ends up in budget. Our Wardrobe team told me they'd spend about $500k and then land back at $185k once returns are done

Justin Baldoni's lawsuit documents reveal Blake Lively insisted on a $600,000 new wardrobe in order to take control of her character, Lily Bloom

Blake's requests meant the costume designer of the film had to 're-shop Blake's wardrobe, far exceeding the allocated budget, time and resources'

'To date they've already spent $615K and they need their cashet cards all replenished because they've only shopped for Justin and Blake.

'They had to reshop everything for Blake after creative changes but it's a lot of money.

'I trust them of course but want to keep you all posted as this is way more than I've ever seen wardrobe go over budget with the initial spend.

'At this point we have to replenish their cards because they haven't shopped for the other characters. Just keeping you all posted.'

The legal fight erupted just before Christmas when Lively, 37, sued her It Ends With Us co-star Baldoni, 41, for sexual harassment, which he denied.

At the same time, the New York Times released a story based on Lively's legal filing that accused him of orchestrating a negative publicity campaign against her.

In turn, Baldoni sued the Times for defamation and launched a $400m lawsuit against Lively and her husband Ryan Reynolds that accused her of using her celebrity power to hijack his film and attempt to torpedo his career - the Times and Lively have denied these claims.

Now, bombshell legal documents detail the lengths Blake went to in order to gain control over her wardrobe choices - despite director Justin, Sony and Wayfarer approving the character's wardrobe.

The documents claim Justin and the studio 'ceded full control to Blake over her wardrobe' in an 'effort to maintain harmony' and 'avoid further delays' which would later prove 'regrettable'

Legal documents claim Blake once wanted to spend $5,000 on shoes to show her character 'had money' - despite being a fledgling small business owner

Normally lead actors are granted approval over their character's general look but usually do not receive full control.

The documents suggest Blake's overpowering fashion choices could have blindsided Justin's vision for her character, disposing weeks of effort spent by the wardrobe team on shopping and crafting her wardrobe - which was specifically tailored to Blake's character well in advance.

The legal documents claim Blake would often send 'hundreds of images late at night' to the film's costume designer.

Blake's requests meant the costume designer of the film had to 're-shop Blake's wardrobe, far exceeding the allocated budget, time and resources'.

The legal documents further claim Blake often 'refused' to participate in wardrobe fittings at the production office 15 minutes from her Manhattan home and allegedly demanded the outfits be shipped to her at great extra expense.

The documents claim Justin and the studio 'ceded full control to Blake over her wardrobe' in an 'effort to maintain harmony' and 'avoid further delays' which would later prove 'regrettable.'

There was a reported backlash from Sony when paparazzi photos of Blake wearing her new wardrobe while filming on May 15 2023 were published - with the images 'widely reported as unflattering.'

The lawsuit claims: 'Justin received direct criticism from Sony, who voiced serious concerns about the impact of the photos on the Films public reception.'

It was further claimed Justin had approached Blake in her trailer while she was with her team to discuss 'necessary wardrobe adjustments, reassert his role as director, and get her on board with him having approval over her characters wardrobe.'
Brodie Ryan has revealed she'll be moving out of the Melbourne home she purchased with AFL star Nathan Buckley following their split.

The brunette revealed in an emotional Instagram post on Tuesday she is leaving the bayside suburb of Elwood altogether.

Brodie posted an image as she enjoyed a glass of wine at the local tavern.

'End of an era. Sad to say goodbye to my favourite little community of Elwood,' she captioned the post.

Brodie and Nathan purchased a property together in the highly sought-after suburb and moved into the home in June last year.

Her post came just hours after Brodie announced the pair have decided to part ways, while Nathan still remains silent on the breakup.

Brodie Ryan has revealed she'll be moving out of the Melbourne home she purchased with AFL star Nathan Buckley following their split

The brunette revealed in an emotional Instagram post on Tuesday she is leaving the bayside suburb of Elwood altogether. Brodie posted an image as she enjoyed a glass of wine at the local tavern

'To the followers of the "Brodes and Bucks" journey,' the former WAG began.

'After much reflection and consideration, Nath and I have decided to part ways,' she continued.

'Thank you for your kind messages and support over the past couple of months of heartache. I am truly grateful for your kindness and consideration.

'This decision was not made lightly, and we are grateful for the time we shared, the memories we created, and the support we received from each other and all of you.

'While we will no longer be a couple, I will always respect Nathan and the friendship that developed between us 3-4 years ago and have a lot of love for him and his boys and our beautiful dog Tank.'

Brodie concluded: 'We appreciate your understanding and kindness over the past couple of months and continuing through this transition period.

'We kindly ask for privacy as we navigate this new chapter in our lives. Thank you for your continued support and for being a part of our journey. With respect and gratitude, Brodie.'

The sad ending comes just months after the pair took their relationship to the next level by recently jetting off to the island paradise of Fiji for a very special family occasion.

Brodie announced the pair have decided to part ways in a shock post on Tuesday but Nathan still remains silence on the breakup

'This decision was not made lightly, and we are grateful for the time we shared, the memories we created, and the support we received from each other and all of you,' she wrote

'It's a big family holiday with all of Nath's family,' Ryan told the Herald Sun at the Australian Open.

It's not the couple's first getaway, they've enjoyed several mini-breaks so far on homegrown soil.

'We've been to the New South Wales coast in the... campervan, we've been to Eildon, Fairhaven, Sorrento and we'll also be going to Queensland,' she told the publication at the time.

Brodie previously revealed she and Nathan connected over their similar upbringings, after they began dating in 2022.

Despite their 17-year age gap, the Melbourne businesswoman said they have so much in common and that they push each other every day to be their best selves.

'Helping others be the best version of themselves and prioritising their mental health and wellbeing and giving back to others is a passion both Nath and I have always shared. These topics were a big attraction to each in the beginning,' she said.

'We had very similar upbringings and share a lot of the same values due to this,' she continued.

'I have always been enthusiastic about helping others where I can, and to have a partner that exercises this same passion every day with his family, friends, and the wider community inspires me.'

Brodie said Nathan's public profile has given him the opportunity to help others through hardships and to give back, and that she is 'inspired' by the work he does.
A video of Aussie star Sarah Snook enjoying the Met Gala this year has shown a slew of A-list stars breached a major rule of the exclusive event held in New York City.

Hollywood icons and hitmakers alike risked facing the wrath of Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour when they snuck in their phones at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Clips taken by record producer Questlove were boldly posted to Instagram, revealing a peek inside the annual event where Sarah, 37, could be seen enjoying herself.

Questlove, 54, played his breach of the rules coy as he managed to capture footage from inside the venue out of the sight of the event staff.

The six-time Grammy winner gathered a group of his superstar palsincluding Met Gala co-chairs Colman Domingo and Lewis Hamiltonto take a group selfie.

The likes of Tracee Ellis Ross, Evan Ross, Cynthia Erivo, Tramell Tillman and Quinta Brunson could all be seen posing for the bathroom picture.

A video of Aussie star Sarah Snook, 37, enjoying the Met Gala this year has shown a slew of A-list stars breached a major rule of the exclusive event held in New York City

Meanwhile, as the group of friends left after taking the photo, Sarah could be seen patiently waiting by the door before joining the crowd as they filed out.

Another clip Questlove shared showed a gospel choir singing in an area of the huge venue before the record producer panned over the crowd.

Once again, Succession star Sarah could be seen smiling among the star-studded guests as she enjoyed the performance.

Questlove wasn't the only star who broke the strict no-phone and no-social media policy of the event.

Megan Thee Stallion and Halle Bailey were both spotted whipping out their phones and capturing moments from fashion's biggest night.

In a video posted to her Instagram, Megan acknowledged Met Gala attendees are 'not supposed to have our phones', before adding: 'But we are doin' it.'

Earlier, big names including Kim Kardashian, Sydney Sweeney, Rihanna and Gigi Hadid flocked to New York City to attend the invite-only gala.

However, other A-list fixtures like Sarah Jessica Parker, Blake Lively, Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez, Ariana Grande, Naomi Campbell and Katy Perry were noticeably absent from the red carpet.

Hollywood icons and hitmakers alike risked facing the wrath of Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour when they snuck in their phones at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

While this year's Met Gala theme, Superfine: Tailoring Black Style presented an opportunity for 'boundary-pushing' looks, celebrities in drab black and grey outfits dominated the event.

Fans slammed the 2025 event as 'boring' as they watched a sea of dreary looks make their way up the museum's iconic staircase during Vogue's livestream.

Many even compared the soiree to a 'funeral' as they flocked to social media to voice their disappointmentwith some even speculating the Met Gala is 'dead'.

Inside the event, Grammy-winning star Megan, 30, filmed herself eating hors d'oeuvres inside the famed Metropolitan Museum of Art with fellow rapper Doechii and WNBA superstar Angel Reese.

'Hottie Cam in thee MET GALA,' captioned the Texas-born bombshell, who wore a custom Michael Kors gown to the red carpet event.

After chowing down on lobster rolls and other decadent treats, Megan recorded herself walking around the venue with Tracee Ellis Ross, Doja Cat and Sha'Carri Richardson.

Next to appear alongside the WAP hitmaker in her Instagram video was Wicked star Cynthia Erivo, who blew kisses at Megan before walking out of frame.

Megan then captured herself with Angela Bassett, who she called 'beautiful' while recording with her in selfie-mode.

Clips taken by record producer Questlove, 54, were boldly posted to Instagram, revealing a peek inside the annual event where Sarah could be seen enjoying herself.

She then captured Oscar-winner Lupita Nyong'o's 'stunning' rhinestone eyebrows before moving across the room to catch up with her pal Serena Williams.

Before sticking out her tongue at the camera, Megan gloated: 'I snuck my phone in.'

Other stars to make cameos in Megan's forbidden Met Gala footage were Michael Kors, Ciara and Tessa Thompson.

Fans of the rapper flocked to the comment section of her IG post to warn her she may get in trouble for her video.

'Here before Anna make you delete this,' wrote one commenter in reference to Wintour.

Others feared Megan could get 'uninvited' from future Met Galas but thanked her for giving them an inside look at the event.

'This is the content we want and neeeed! Thank you,' wrote one fan who received over 200 'likes'.

According to InStyle, Wintour's no-phone rule does not prohibit guests from taking photos inside the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

In one clip, as Questlove grabbed a photo with his superstar friends in the bathroom, Sarah could be seen patiently waiting by the door before joining the crowd as they filed out

Fashion's biggest night was held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City on Tuesday night.

The event has a theme each year, with this year's theme as Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, inspired by Monica Miller's work, which includes her book Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity.

Monica is the chair of Africana Studies at Barnard College, as well as a professor at the institute.

According to Monica, Black dandyism is 'a strategy and a tool to rethink identity, to reimagine the self in a different context. To really push a boundaryespecially during the time of enslavement, to really push a boundary on who and what counts as human, even,' via Vogue.

The accompanying exhibit showcases everything from garments to paintings, photographs, and video, all spotlighting the fashion of Black men.

The 2025 gala theme focused on menswear, 22 years after the Men In Skirts themewhich was the first gala to focus only on menswear.

The Met Gala 2025 was co-chaired by Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, Colman Domingo, Pharrell Williams and Anna Wintour, with Lebron James as the honorary chair.

The guest list for the annual soiree was leaked just hours before kick-off, revealing a slew of A-list names.

However, many Met Gala fixtures were missing from the event.

Sarah Jessica Parker, Blake Lively, Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez, Ariana Grande, Naomi Campbell and Katy Perry skipped out on the 2025 soiree, along with Selena Gomez, Bella Hadid and Gisele Bundchen.
Kelsey Grammer opens up about his past experience with abortion - and his current thoughts on the topic - in his new book Karen: A Brother Remembers.

'I know that many people do not have a problem with abortion, and though I have supported it in the past, it eats away at my soul,' the actor, 70, said in the book.

Grammer, who played the iconic role of psychiatrist Dr. Frasier Crane on the NBC primetime hits Cheers and Frasier, said he and a partner got an abortion in 1974.

He wrote that he regret trying to talk her out of it, as he was 'willing' to become a dad at the time.

The Emmy-winning actor said he felt bad he 'did not plead with her to save [the unborn child's] life.'

The actor, who was born in the U.S. Virgin Islands, wrote that he felt bad about what had occurred - which came six months prior to his sister's tragic July 1, 1975 death.

Kelsey Grammer opens up about his past experience with abortion - and his current thoughts on the topic - in his new book Karen: A Brother Remember. Pictured in NYC last month

The Emmy-winning actor said he felt bad he 'did not plead with her to save [the unborn child's] life'

Grammer wrote that 'volunteered to have my son's body vacuumed out of his mother's. I regret it. That's all I meant to say.'

Grammer was also critical of the medical professionals involved in the procedure.

'The doctor, or so-called doctors, who have executed generations of children in this manner - I have no idea how they call themselves doctors,' he wrote.

He added, "Something about the "first, do no harm" thing. But I offer no controversy.'

Grammer in the book spoke about how he and wife Kayte had been expecting twins when tragedy ensued.

He said that a fetus sack ruptured more than three months into the pregnancy.

It would not repair, endangering the life of his spouse, Grammer wrote.

Grammer said: 'Doctors advised us his continued growth without the safety of his amniotic fluid would surely kill him and probably take Faith too.'

Grammer played the iconic role of psychiatrist Dr. Frasier Crane on the NBC primetime hits Cheers and Frasier

The actor's new book Karen: A Brother Remembers is available now. Pictured in NYC last year

Following extensive prayer, Grammer wrote that he and his spouse made the heart wrenching decision to abort the male fetus to spare Walsh.

He said: 'We killed our son so Faith might live. We wept as we watched his heart stop. It is the greatest pain I have ever known.

Grammer said Walsh's 'scream was enough to make a man mourn a lifetime.'

Grammer is father to seven children including daughter Spencer, 41, with first wife Doreen Alderman; daughter Greer, 33, with ex Barrie Buckner, 63; daughter Mason, 23, and son Jude, 20, with Bravo alum Camille Grammer, 56; and daughter Faith, 12, and sons Kelsey, 10, and Auden, eight, with Walsh, 46.

Karen: A Brother Remembers is available now.
To judge by her striking new hairdo, youd think she was at a fringe event.

But Nicole Kidman unveiled her radical makeover at one of the biggest fashion events of the year.

The actress, 57, wore an eye-catching Balenciaga gown to Monday nights Met Gala, yet it was her cropped, slicked-back cut and wavy fringe that got everybody talking.

The long ponytail she sported at a concert by pop star Charli XCX only the day before had disappeared, replaced by a short style that appeared soft and blonde from the front, but dark and edgy at the back.

The Babygirl stars hairdresser Adir Abergel, one of Hollywoods most sought-after stylists, said on Instagram that the inspiration was a tailored short cut  a reference to the theme of the New York event this year, Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.

The gala, an annual fundraiser for the citys Metropolitan Museum of Art, has long been the place celebrities choose to show off a new look.

Nicole Kidman, 57, received full fan approval as she unveiled her radical makeover at one of the biggest fashion events of the year, The Met Gala on Monday

The long ponytail she sported at a concert by pop star Charli XCX only the day before had disappeared, replaced by a short style that appeared soft and blonde from the front, but dark and edgy at the back

Many fans rushed to Mr Abergels Instagram to claim the cut is the best hair Nicole has ever had  though some argued that, for most women of a similar age, such an edgy style might be hard to pull off.

Lesley Drummond, senior stylist at the John Frieda salon in Mayfair, central London, described the look as almost like a bob thats quite long at the front but steeply graduated as you go towards the back.

She added: Its the contrast between the blonde at the front and the dark at the back that gives it more depth and makes it look so striking.

Lesley  who half suspects the Oscar winner might have been wearing a very good wig  believes it is nonetheless a lovely cut for someone older who might feel a bit insecure about cutting their hair short.

Thats because the length at the front gives it the look of longer hair that has been tied back, making it a gateway chop for those unsure if they are entirely ready to give up their long locks.

Its a style that could work with a lot of different hair types, including curly hair, Lesley says.

The good news is that it doesnt take a lot of skill to style. The key to keeping it easy to manage is having regular cuts to maintain the shape  thats where the maintenance comes in.

But on a day-to-day basis its quite straightforward.

The Babygirl stars hairdresser Adir Abergel, one of Hollywoods most sought-after stylists, said on Instagram that the inspiration was a tailored short cut  a reference to the theme of the New York event this year, Superfine: Tailoring Black Style

Many fans rushed to Mr Abergels Instagram to claim the cut is the best hair Nicole has ever had  though some argued that, for most women of a similar age, such an edgy style might be hard to pull off

Nicole pictured with her long blonde locks in February

That Nicole appears to be moving away from her signature long hair could be seen as something of a watershed moment.

A generation ago, long styles on women over 40 were almost unheard of. Then came a backlash that saw the look prevail.

I think what were seeing here is a fresher, more modern way of wearing hair short in midlife, says Lesley.

Its no longer about women feeling they need to cut their hair because theyre older, but about showing that they can embrace individuality, whatever their age, and still look feminine.
Miranda Kerr has shared a precious moment with her children.

The Australian supermodel, 42, posted a short clip to social media on the way to the Met Gala's red carpet in New York City on Monday.

The Sydney-born model looked glamorous in her jaw-dropping gown as she enthusiastically chatted to her children and blew them kisses.

She captioned the footage with some hilarious words: 'When you're on your way to the Met but don't want to miss bath time.'

Miranda and her tech billionaire husband Evan Spiegel have three sons together: Hart, seven, Myles, six, and one-year-old Pierre.

She also has a 13-year-old son, Flynn, from her previous marriage to Orlando Bloom.

Miranda Kerr has shared a precious moment with her children. Pictured

The Australian supermodel, 42, posted a short clip to social media on the way to the Met Gala's red carpet in New York City on Monday

The model made a dramatic entrance at the 2025 Met Gala, turning heads in a show-stopping sculptural black gown that fused high fashion with avant-garde elegance.

She looked nothing short of sensational as she arrived at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City for fashion's biggest night of the year on Monday, US time.

Miranda opted for a daring strapless creation that featured exaggerated origami-style folds across the bodice and hip, paired with a wire-mesh veil worn over her face.

The Sydney-born model completed her attention-grabbing get-up with floor-grazing statement sleeves that billowed as she posed for photographers.

The striking ensemble showcased her toned physique and highlighted her statuesque frame.

She accessorised the bold look with long black opera gloves, strappy stilettos and a dazzling diamond choker necklace.

Meanwhile, her brunette hair was elegantly swept back into a sleek braided bun.

A swipe of classic red lipstick completed Miranda's old-Hollywood-inspired glam look.

The model made a dramatic entrance at the 2025 Met Gala, turning heads in a show-stopping sculptural black gown that fused high fashion with avant-garde elegance

She was joined by her husband Evan Spiegel, who cut a dashing figure in a tailored suit.

Beaming from ear to ear, Miranda appeared to be in high spirits as she posed confidently for cameras, flashing her signature smile.

She waved to fans and photographers alike, clearly soaking up the electric atmosphere of the star-studded evening.

The former Victoria's Secret Angel radiated joy and confidence as she glided down the blue carpet, pausing to laugh and chat with fellow guests.

The star-studded affair marked another standout appearance for Miranda, who has become a Met Gala regular over the years thanks to her sophisticated fashion choices and runway-ready poise.
A guest who was dragged away from the Carlyle Hotel ahead of Monday's Met Gala has now been identified  and she's a stylist to the stars.

On Tuesday, the woman who was allegedly 'manhandled' by a member of the New York Police Department was identified as the celebrity stylist Jessica Paster, according to Page Six.

DailyMail.com first shared video of the shocking confrontation, in which Paster attempted to enter the hotel  where celebrities attending New York City's Met Gala and their entourages stay ahead of the fundraiser  before being pulled away from the front entrance by security and police.

Paster's altercation with police was reportedly a major subject of discussion among Met Gala attendees later that night, as she was styling multiple stars attending, including the Olympic gymnast Simone Biles, Abbott Elementary star and creator Quinta Brunson and the model Miranda Kerr.

DailyMail.com has contacted Paster and a representative for the Carlyle Hotel to request comment.

An NYPD spokesperson shared a statement with DailyMail.com on Tuesday: 'Yesterday afternoon, a female attempted to enter the main entrance of the Carlyle Hotel when she was stopped and denied entry by hotel security.

A guest who was dragged away from the Carlyle Hotel ahead of Monday's Met Gala has now been identified  and she's a stylist to the stars

On Tuesday, the woman who was allegedly 'manhandled' by members New York Police Department was identified as celebrity stylist Jessica Paster, according to Page Six; she's pictured (L) with model Miranda Kerr, one of the women she styled for the Met Gala, in 2017

Paster was styling multiple stars attending, including the Olympic gymnast Simone Biles (pictured) and Abbott Elementary star Quinta Brunson

'The individual attempted to enter the hotel a second time after being denied when officers intervened and stopped the female from entering,' they said. 'She was told she needed to go through the service entrance and obtain proper credentials. This female was escorted to the service entrance by police where she was then re-escorted to the main entrance by hotel security and allowed entry.'

Paster's altercation with police and security occurred as throngs of onlookers gathered outside the Carlyle Hotel in hopes of catching a glimpse of celebrities arriving to get dressed for the nearby Met Gala or leaving in their opulent attire.

But a live feed of the entrance showed a woman, later identified as Paster, shouting, 'Im staying at this hotel!'

The stylist, who was clad in a gray sweatsuit, was seen being pushed back by police at security as she struggled to move toward the hotel entrance.

She shouted at the guards and staff at a smaller door to the left, before attempting to push through to the larger rotating door when two NYPD officers began dragging her away.

A woman who appeared to be hotel employee then rushed out and ushered Paster into the hotel, but the stylist walked back out to take a picture of one of the two officers who had pulled her away.

'I'm so mad right now!' she fumed as she searched for the second officer to take their picture, before she was ushered into the lobby.

As Paster later described the incident to Page Six, she was just following the rules about entering the hotel but was accosted by police who allegedly didn't bother to ascertain whether she belonged there.

DailyMail.com first shared video of the confrontation, in which Paster attempted to enter the hotel  where celebrities attending New York City's Met Gala and their entourages stay ahead of the fundraiser  before being pulled away from the front entrance by security and police

She said she was following rules and had a wristband ID, but police allegedly still tried to pull her away. 'And all of a suddenly they attacked me, they manhandled me,' she said

'I'm so mad right now!' Paster could be heard saying as she came back out to snap pictures of the officers who grabbed her after an employee ushered her into the lobby

Paster said she was in 'a lot of pain' after she was allegedly injured in her interaction with police. '[The police officer] is lucky she didnt break my arms,' she said

According to a source, the video of Paster was a major topic of discussion among Met Gala attendees because of her high profile in the industry and her work with numerous A-listers. 'Literally everyone was sending it to each other,' they said; seen with Olivia Munn in 2019

'I want to say that I am just a person staying at a hotel minding my own business, having the credentials on my wrist and I got manhandled,' she claimed.

The stylist said she was following directions after 'people' told her to 'go through the service door,' but she was then told to 'go back to the lobby.

'And all of a suddenly they attacked me, they manhandled me,' she alleged, even though she said she had on the wristband identification that should have told security that she was allowed to enter.

Paster said she was in 'a lot of pain' after she was allegedly injured in her interaction with police.

'[The police officer] is lucky she didnt break my arms,' she said.

Paster's assistant also told the publication that anyone would have reacted similarly if they were 'grabbed out of nowhere after following instructions.'

According to a source, the video of Paster  who wasn't initially identified  was a major topic of discussion among Met Gala attendees because of her high profile in the industry and her work with numerous A-listers.

'Literally everyone was sending it to each other,' they claimed.
Brian Austin Green's ex Vanessa Marcil shared a past text message exchange between the pair as she seemingly made a subtle dig at the actor.

Just one day earlier, Green had labeled their previous relationship as 'toxic' during Monday's episode of his Old-ish podcast with co-hosts Randy Spelling and fiancee Sharna Burgess.

Vanessa and Brian first began dating in 1999 after meeting on set of Beverly Hills, 90210 and became engaged in 2001. Their son Kassius, 23, was born the following year but the former couple split soon after.

The Las Vegas actress, 56, jumped to Instagram on Tuesday as she uploaded a brief exchange which appeared to hint that Green had forgotten about his son's graduation.

She had sent him a photo and he typed, 'When was that?' to which she replied, 'Yesterday was his graduation.'

The father-of-five then complimented her by adding, 'You did a really great job. He's an amazing person :).' Marcil simply responded with, 'Thank you.'

Brian Austin Green's ex Vanessa Marcil, 56, shared a past text message exchange between the pair as she seemingly made a subtle dig at the actor; seen in 2017 in L.A.

Just one day earlier, Green had labeled their previous relationship as 'toxic' during Monday's episode of his Old-ish podcast with co-hosts Randy Spelling and fiancee Sharna Burgess

Earlier this week on Monday, Brian reflected on his relationships with both Megan Fox and Vanessa on a recent podcast episode.

Green and Marcil have been embroiled in co-parenting drama since their split and back in 2023, he made claims that the actress did not let him see their son Kassius at one point.

She also has alleged in 2018 that both Brian and then-wife Megan Fox had 'cut Kass out of their lives.' However, Vanessa later revealed that the Transformers actress apologized for her role in their family drama.

The actor recalled how his mother had 'smothered him' while growing up, and how that affected his own relationships in the future.

'If I'm looking for a woman, I want the complete opposite of that. I had some major missteps because of that,' he told both Randy and Sharna.

'I mean, the relationship that I had with Vanessa was very toxic in that way. Like, it wasn't a loving, caring relationship.'

He added of his mother, 'To a fault sometimes, just everything was about me. And then with Vanessa, it was not that at all, but it was masked in this is a relationship where that absolutely exists.

'So you start thinking like, "'Oh, it's just kind of a new version. Like, oh, she loves me, but this is her way of loving me."'

The Las Vegas actress jumped to Instagram on Tuesday as she uploaded a brief exchange which appeared to hint that Green had forgotten about his son's graduation

Vanessa and Brian first began dating in 1999 after meeting on set of Beverly Hills, 90210 and became engaged in 2001. Their son Kassius, 23, was born the following year but the former couple split soon after; seen in 2000 in Beverly Hills

Green explained that he initially believed Vanessa had being 'trying to help me' but just a couple years later, he didn't recognize himself.

'You're like, "Who am I at this point? There's not once piece of me that's left. My relationship with everyone around me has changed."'

After their split, Brian began dating Megan Fox which he called a 'breath of fresh air, coming out of what felt like Vietnam to me.'

The former couple started dating in 2004 after they crossed paths on set of Hope & Faith. At the time, she was 18-years-old and he was 30.

They eventually tied the knot in 2010 but their divorce was finalized in 2021. They also share three children: Noah, 12, Bodhi, 11 and Journey, eight.

Green has since been in a relationship with professional dancer Sharna Burgess beginning in 2020. Their son Zane, two, was born in June 2022.

Last year, Vanessa came to Fox's defense and shared that the beauty previously apologized for her involvement in their family drama.

In response to a fan on Instagram, Marcil penned at the time: 'She has apologized to both me and our child. She stated she is "disgusted" by her behavior. However, it wasn't her job to keep a grown man/biological parent in his son's life. That's on him.'

'I mean, the relationship that I had with Vanessa was very toxic in that way. Like, it wasn't a loving, caring relationship,' the actor said on Monday's podcast episode

After their split, Brian began dating Megan Fox which he called a 'breath of fresh air, coming out of what felt like Vietnam to me'; Fox and Green seen in 2014 in Beverly Hills

She added, 'It's true as you said that it's painful to watch #sharnaburgess try to gaslight her followers, however I do feel for her too.

'Only difference is that she's not a child like Megan was. She's being conned and would have to give up her whole 'fairy tale' in order to stand up for the truth at this point.'

The star then added of Burgess, 'But trust me, in her gut, she knows that she's being lied to. I feel for her and her beautiful son. We [don't] really matter anymore. The kids do. One day we will all be gone and these siblings will all be together.

'My son is the oldest and he knows the real truth. He will protect them. Their safety and peace are all he cares about. The truth will always prevail in the end.'

Marcil expressed, 'It's good to be on the right side of history and to know I gave up everything to protect my son and stand up to the truth.'

One year earlier in 2023, Green claimed that Vanessa had kept their son Kassius out of his life amid his health struggles with vertigo.

'Those years that he wasn't able to go see Kassius, Vanessa made no effort to make sure Brian got time with him,' Sharna alleged during a previous episode.

'Instead, she painted him as an absent father who chose not to be around for him. And I'm sure that information was fed to Kass, and I can't imagine how damaging that was for him.'

Last year, Vanessa came to Fox's defense and shared that the beauty previously apologized for her involvement in their family drama

One year earlier in 2023, Green claimed that Vanessa had kept their son Kassius out of his life amid his health struggles with vertigo

Brian also claimed, 'To find out after the fact that at the point when I started getting better, that she then was painting it that I had abandoned Kass during that time, when the reality was I was dealing with such brain fog in what I was going through.'

He added, 'It would've meant so much if Vanessa had decided, "Hey, I'm going to make sure while youre going through this that your son can still get to your house and see you."

'That would've just made an incredible difference in the situation. But that's not what went down. That's not how it happened.'

Marcil has previously alleged that she raised Kassius all on her own. She also claimed that he had taken her to court for years and requested for child support - which Brian denied.
Married At First Sight stars Jamie Marinos and Eliot Donovan have certainly had tongues wagging since leaving the reality experiment.

In the weeks since they shared a bed together in Sydney before Daily Mail Australia's MAFS Reunion Party, the pair have continued to fan the flames of romance rumours, thanks to a raft of eyebrow raising social media posts.

Now, Jamie, 28, has broken her silence on the pairing, telling Nine that their relationship is not just for the cameras.

'We have so much fun together, getting to know each other, and making Tik Toks are always so much fun,' Jamie said.

'But for me, the important thing is that it's not a publicity stunt, we just genuinely enjoy being around each other.'

Jamie, who failed to find forever love with groom Dave Hand, said that she and Eliot, 35, had simply clicked after their time on the Channel Nine series.

MAFS star Jamie Marinos (pictured) has broken her silence on her rumoured romance with Eliot Donovan, telling Nine that their relationship is not just for the cameras

She said that Eliot had provided support in the weeks following her split with Dave.

'We only started hanging around each other since we both left our marriages, just over a month ago,' she said.

'He's always been a very good friend to me, but he's been a really amazing support system.'

While admitting that the pair had become close, Jamie stopped short of hard launching any romantic entanglement with Eliot.

'I understand everyone wants an answer but we're in the real world now, so it's not like we're going to be official or announce something tomorrow,' she added.

Jamie's comments come after the pair were recently spotted getting very up close and personal on the dancefloor.

In a clip shared to Instagram by gossip account MAFSUncensored, the pair beamed broadly as they grinded up against each other as a throbbing beat played in the background.

Putting Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey to shame, Eliot and Jamie were not afraid to show the packed crowd their own version of Dirty Dancing.

'We have so much fun together, getting to know each other, and making Tik Toks are always so much fun,' Jamie said. 'But for me, the important thing is that it's not a publicity stunt, we just genuinely enjoy being around each other.'

'We only started hanging around each other since we both left our marriages, just over a month ago,' she added. 'He's always been a very good friend to me, but he's been a really amazing support system.'

During their dance routine, Jamie's hands explored Eliot's body as she gyrated on his leg.

Eliot too was not shy about showing off his risque dance moves, sorting a cheeky grin as he copied Jamie's seductive steps.

Neither has publicly confirmed a relationship, leaving some question as to whether their outings together are to gain social media attention, at least in the mind of Jamie's ex TV husband Dave Hand.

'What are your thoughts on Jamie and Eliot getting together?' one fan asked Dave in an Instagram Q&A session.

'Honestly, I don't have any thoughts on it. I couldn't give a... I don't care,' he said,

'But I highly doubt she's going to sleep with three cast members from this year's season,' he scoffed.

'I think it's just a TikTok, Instagram thing - whatever they're doing,' Dave continued. 'But good luck to them, honestly. Best wishes.'

Jamie and Eliot responded by posting a short clip from their very public date at Warner Bros. Movie World last month, replying to a fan who commented: 'Dave did in fact care.'

While admitting that the pair had become close, Jamie stopped short of hard launching any romantic entanglement with Eliot

In the video, Eliot laughed and said, 'We're in this together,' while he wrapped an arm around Jamie's shoulders as they prepared to go on a roller coaster ride.

The date had Jamie literally jumping for joy as she spent the day with her new partner in life and/or social media.

Jamie and Eliot certainly looked every inch the loved-up couple as they packed on the PDA for all to see at the theme park.

Eliot spent most of the day with an arm around Jamie's shoulders, holding her hand or gently touching her back.

Jamie and Eliot also seemed unable to keep their hands off each other during the recent reunion dinner.
Married at First Sight groom Ryan Gallagher has opened up about his heartbreaking childhood.

The father-of-one, 36, took to his social media to detail an upbringing that was marked by what he describes as 'alcohol and abuse'.

Ryan was prompted to make his confession after watching a clip of American mixed martial arts fighter Sean Strickland talking about abuse at the hands of his father.

Including a picture of Strickland in his Instagram story, Ryan explained that the 'video hit home'.

'My dad didn't do or say the same things, but drinking and abuse was a daily thing,' Ryan said.

'I used to sleep under the house in the dirt with my dogs to get away from him while my mum was working night duty nursing.

Married at First Sight groom Ryan Gallagher has opened up about his heartbreaking childhood. The 36-year-old father-of-one took to his social media to detail an upbringing that was marked by 'alcohol and abuse'. (Pictured)

He continued: 'Or sleep in mum's car in the carpark at the hospital at night while she nursed, then go to school just like this guy, zoned out and blamed.'

Ryan, who shares a two-year-old son Sampson with Olympian Emily Seebohm, went on to explain that his sad childhood helped him to define a very different kind of parenting.

'It's why I don't drink and [have] never done drugs,' he said in his post.

'My father taught me what not to do as a father, it made me the father I am.

'I'm patient, beyond loving and supportive but most of all Sampson has a present dad who wants to be with him every second.'

Ryan's emotional share comes after speculation that he has split from Emily.

The pair, who got engaged in December 2022, have unfollowed each other on Instagram, with sources close to the couple also suggesting they have separated.

A source close to the couple appeared to confirm they had split.

Ryan shares two-year-old son Sampson with Olympian Emily Seebohm, 32. (Pictured)

The pair first sparked break-up rumours when they unfollowed each other on Instagram, with Ryan removing Emily from his feed.

Then in April a source told Sky News Australia the pair had called it quits, two years after welcoming Sampson into the world.

'Ryan and Emily are trying to find a new normal, which has been a real process,' the insider told the publication.

'Their number one priority is Sampson and ensuring he continues to feel supported by both parents.

'They haven't felt the need to make public statements.'

It was also reported by the publication Ryan has relocated to Brisbane and is living on his own after the split.

Emily's last appearance on Ryan's grid was more than two years ago.

Ryan met Emily while filming The Challenge Australia in 2022, and four months later they were engaged.

Ryan was prompted to make his confession after watching a clip of American mixed martial arts fighter Sean Strickland talk about abuse at the hands of his father. (Pictured)

However, they opted to keep their engagement under wraps until March of the following year.

'We just wanted to live in our own little bubble, we just wanted that for us and our families,' Emily told the Daily Telegraph.

Ryan proposed next to a dam on his farm near Goulburn, NSW, with a trilogy diamond ring from Goulburn's Zantis Jewellers.

Speaking to Stellar in February, Emily revealed the couple were in no rush to marry but could elope at any time.

'I feel like sometimes we talk about it and say maybe we should elope or we'll go to the Town Hall and just get it done,' Emily said.

'If weddings weren't so expensive or take so long to plan, we would have done it. It's probably an after Paris [Olympics] thing.'

Subsequently, they revealed their pregnancy in July 2023 through an endearing social media video, accompanied by the caption: 'Weve had a little bump in the road.'
Actor Michael Pitt - best known for playing Jimmy Darmody on HBO's Boardwalk Empire - has been arrested by police on sexual assault charges.

The 44-year-old actor was arrested on Friday at 9 PM in Brooklyn for first-degree sexual abuse and other related charges stemming from four domestic incident, according to New York Post.

The arrest stems from four separate domestic assault incidents that took place at his home in Bushwick between April 2020 and August 2021, involving his then-girlfriend.

The actor first 'forcibly fondled' the victim, and then months later, he allegedly sexually assaulted her and struck her with a wooden plank.

The next violent incident happened in July 2021, when Pitt was said to have assaulted the victim with a cinder block.

The final incident Pitt - who smashed a guitar as part of a fashion campaign in 2023 - is charged with alleged that he strangled his then-girlfriend, according to court documents.

Actor Michael Pitt - best known for playing Jimmy Darmody on HBO 's Boardwalk Empire - has been arrested by police on sexual assault charges

The 44-year-old actor was arrested on Friday at 9 PM in Brooklyn for first-degree sexual abuse and other related charges stemming from four domestic incident, according to New York Post .

Pitt's formal charges were first-degree criminal sex act, third-degree criminal sex act, two counts of second-degree assault, two counts of second-degree attempted assault, and second-degree strangulation.

He pled not guilty in front of Judge Joanne Quinones, who set bail at $100,000, which the actor promptly posted.

'Unfortunately, we live in a world where somebody like Mr. Pitt  an accomplished professional who would never so much as contemplate these crimes  can be arrested on the uncorroborated word of an unhinged individual,' Pitts attorney, Cary London, said in a statement.

'We look forward to proving his innocence through the evidence and not through the media,' the statement concluded.

Pitt's next appearance in court is scheduled for June 17, and this is not the actor's first brush with the law either.

He was arrested in July 2022 and charged with assault and petty larceny after striking a man several times and taking his phone.

Just months later, police responded to a 911 call that Pitt was throwing objects from a building at other people on the street.

He was apprehended and restrained to a gurney, though he was not charged with a crime since he was deemed an, 'emotionally disturbed person.'

Pitt's formal charges were first-degree criminal sex act, third-degree criminal sex act, two counts of second-degree assault, two counts of second-degree attempted assault, and second-degree strangulation

He pled not guilty in front of Judge Joanne Quinones, who set bail at $100,000, which the actor promptly posted

After he was restrained, he was taken to a local hospital for treatment, with this taking place at the same location of the July 2022 incident.

Pitt shined in early roles in Bully, Hedwig and the Angry Inch and as a deranged killer in 2002's Murder by Numbers (above) alongside Sandra Bullock

He also starred in M. Night Shyamalan's The Village and Last Days, before playing a another deranged character in the 2007 remake of Funny Games (above), alongside Brady Corbet, who would go on to direct last year's Best Picture nominee The Brutalist

After he was restrained, he was taken to a local hospital for treatment, with this taking place at the same location of the July 2022 incident.

Pitt shined in early roles in Bully, Hedwig and the Angry Inch and as a deranged killer in 2002's Murder by Numbers alongside Sandra Bullock.

He also starred in M. Night Shyamalan's The Village and Last Days, before playing a another deranged character in the 2007 remake of Funny Games, alongside Brady Corbet, who would go on to direct last year's Best Picture nominee The Brutalist.

Pitt most recently starred in Netflix's Reptile with Benicio Del Toro and he played a troubled boxer in Day of the Fight with Steve Buscemi, Ron Perlman and Joe Pesci.
Former ABC journalist Iain Finlay has died by euthanasia at age 89 after a long battle with a rare disorder.

The reporter was suffering from amyloidosis - a disorder in which amyloid protein builds up in the organs.

He died on Tuesday at his home in the Tweed Valley, northern NSW, surrounded by his partner of 60 years Trish Clark and children Zara and Sean, the ABC reported.

Finlay told the publication on Monday he began looking into euthanasia several years ago 'to help deal with things in a sensible way'.

He had been participating in a trial for amyloidosis but decided to look into voluntary assisted dying as the treatment wasn't working.

'There is no doubt this is an effort to control aspects of dying, having it administered to you at a particular time when your family can be there,' he said before his death.

ABC journalist Iain Finlay (pictured) has died by euthanasia aged 89 after a health battle with a rare disorder

'It's going to be very traumatic for them, I suppose, even more than me.'

His wife Trish said she was 'not looking forward to it' but they had made a lifetime of happy memories together.

Their son Sean shared an emotional Instagram tribute to his dad on Tuesday following his death.

'Today we farewelled a truly remarkable man, my father, Iain Murray McKenzie Finlay,' he began.

'18 months ago my Pa, was diagnosed with a terminal disease called Amyloidosisan incurable cardiac condition in which patients become increasingly breathless, ultimately leading to death.

'For our father, the condition became progressively more intolerable and complex over the passing weeks and months, as it was accompanied by excruciating pain. Eventually, he could no longer stand or walk more than a few steps without gasping for breath.

'In response, a decision was madeby dad and with the full support of his familyto begin the detailed and complex process of applying for Voluntary Assisted Dying at home.

'Following three consultations with doctors, the procedure was approved, with medication scheduled to be administered Today, 6th May 2025.'

Finlay was the South-east Asia correspondent for the ABC and worked with This Day Tonight for eight years

Finlay started his journalism career in 1956 by reporting for the United Press during the Melbourne Olympic Games.

He was the South-east Asia correspondent for the ABC and worked with This Day Tonight for eight years.

Finlay also reported on the AM and Beyond 2000.

He interviewed several influential people over the years including Ella Fitzgerald, Mohammed Ali and Richard Nixon.
Brian Austin Green is finally addressing allegations that he 'groomed' his ex-wife Megan Fox.

The 51-year-old Beverly Hills, 90210 star has been dogged by rumors for years that he took advantage of the 38-year-old actress because of her youth and their significant age gap, as she was only 18 when they began dating, while he was 30.

But on Monday, he opened up about the subject he has long held his tongue on during a chat with his fiancee Sharna Burgess on their podcast Oldish.

Sharna, 39, cued up Brian after he described his 'toxic' relationship with his ex Vanessa Marcil, which prompted her to dig up text messages between herself and her ex in which she appeared to hint that he had forgotten their 23-year-old son Kassius' graduation.

Although Sharna knew that her fiance denied having groomed his ex-wife, she asked him why he never tried to set the record straight.

According to actor, the influence of a family member led him to think defending himself would be a losing battle.

Brian Austin Green, 51, is finally addressing allegations that he 'groomed' his ex-wife Megan Fox; pictured in North Hollywood on April 3

The Beverly Hills, 90210 star has been dogged by rumors for years that he took advantage of the 38-year-old actress because of her youth and their significant age gap, as she was only 18 when they began dating, while he was 30; pictured in 2010 at Disney World's Magic Kingdom

'I think it comes from my dad. Hes very good at cutting emotion out of something and just being logical in his choices,' Brian explained.

'I really, logically understood that if I defend myself this one time, its never gonna stop,' he said. 'Im gonna have to defend myself for who knows how long, because people are gonna believe what they wanna believe. So, to me, time is the only thing that regulates that.

He explained that he hoped living a life relatively free of controversy would overwhelm the suspicions of people who didn't know him.

'People spend more time seeing me not being that way and then they start questioning it and they start going, you know, "Weve seen him for five years. Weve never once seen him being controlling or hearing any other story from anyone else about,"' he shared. 'Its the long game of it.'

Brian and his ex Megan began their relationship back in 2004, after they had worked together on the ABC sitcom Hope & Faith.

Megan joined the series in its second season to take over the role of one of the title characters' daughters, and Brian made a guest appearance on the show.

In a 2009 Elle profile, the Transformers actress suggested that she took the upper hand in initiating the relationship, as Brian was initially hesitant about dating.

'I had to convince him that I was slightly more responsible and well-spoken and had other things to bring to the table besides being 18,' she said.

'I really, logically understood that if I defend myself this one time, its never gonna stop,' he said. 'Im gonna have to defend myself for who knows how long, because people are gonna believe what they wanna believe'; pictured together in 2013 in Beverly Hills

He and Megan began dating in 2004 after working together. They got engaged in 2006 and wed in 2010, later welcoming three sons together, though they split multiple times along the way; pictured in 2019 in LA

Month after announcing their split in 2020, Brian began dating the professional dancer Sharna Burgess. They welcomed a son together in 2022 and got engaged in September 2023; pictured in November in NYC

The two had a tumultuous relationship, and though they got engaged two years later, they later split in February 2009.

But Brian and Megan announced in June 2010 that they had reunited and the engagement was back on, and they surprised their fans by tying the knot later that month in Hawaii.

The couple later welcomed three sons: Noah, 12; Bodhi, 11; and Journey, eight.

After welcoming their second son in 2014, Megan and Brian announced they had separated in August 2015, and Megan filed for divorce days later. However, the onoff couple reunited early the next year, and Megan later filed to dismiss her divorce suit in 2019.

Just over a year later, in May 2020, Brian revealed that he and Megan had again separated, seemingly for good.

Megan filed for divorce in November of that year, and it was finalized in October 2021.

Brian later moved on with Sharna in October 2020, and they welcomed a son together in June 2022, before getting engaged in September of the following year.

A month after her split from Brian was announced, Megan went public with her relationship with the rapper-turned-rocker Machine Gun Kelly.

A month after her split from Brian was announced, Megan went public with her relationship with the rapper-turned-rocker Machine Gun Kelly. The two got engaged in 2022 but called it off in 2024. They welcomed a daughter in March of this year; seen in 2023 in LA

The two got engaged in 2022 but called it off two years later. In March of this year, Megan gave birth to their first child together, a daughter, though they have not publicly revealed her name so far.

On the same Oldish episode that Brian opened up about the grooming allegations, he labeled his and ex Vaneesa Marcil previous relationship as 'toxic.'

Vanessa and Brian first began dating in 1999 after meeting on set of Beverly Hills, 90210 and became engaged in 2001. Their son Kassius, 23, was born the following year but the former couple split soon after.

The Las Vegas actress, 56, jumped to Instagram on Tuesday as she uploaded a brief exchange which appeared to hint that Green had forgotten about his son's graduation.

She had sent him a photo and he typed, 'When was that?' to which she replied, 'Yesterday was his graduation.'

The father-of-five then complimented her by adding, 'You did a really great job. He's an amazing person :).' Marcil simply responded with, 'Thank you.'

Earlier this week on Monday, Brian reflected on his relationships with both Megan Fox and Vanessa on a recent podcast episode.

Green and Marcil have been embroiled in co-parenting drama since their split and back in 2023, he made claims that the actress did not let him see their son Kassius at one point.

Brian's ex Vanessa Marcil, 56, shared a past text message exchange between the pair on Tuesday as she seemingly made a subtle dig at the actor; seen in 2017 in L.A.

Just a day earlier, Brian had labeled their previous relationship as 'toxic' during Monday's episode of his Oldish podcast with co-hosts Randy Spelling and fiancee Sharna Burgess

She also has alleged in 2018 that both Brian and then-wife Megan Fox had 'cut Kass out of their lives.' However, Vanessa later revealed that the Transformers actress apologized for her role in their family drama.

The actor recalled how his mother had 'smothered him' while growing up, and how that affected his own relationships in the future.

'If I'm looking for a woman, I want the complete opposite of that. I had some major missteps because of that,' he told both Randy and Sharna.

'I mean, the relationship that I had with Vanessa was very toxic in that way. Like, it wasn't a loving, caring relationship.'

He added of his mother, 'To a fault sometimes, just everything was about me. And then with Vanessa, it was not that at all, but it was masked in this is a relationship where that absolutely exists.

'So you start thinking like, "'Oh, it's just kind of a new version. Like, oh, she loves me, but this is her way of loving me."'

Green explained that he initially believed Vanessa had being 'trying to help me' but just a couple years later, he didn't recognize himself.

'You're like, "Who am I at this point? There's not once piece of me that's left. My relationship with everyone around me has changed."'

The Las Vegas actress jumped to Instagram on Tuesday as she uploaded a brief exchange which appeared to hint that Green had forgotten about his son's graduation

Vanessa and Brian first began dating in 1999 after meeting on set of Beverly Hills, 90210 and became engaged in 2001. Their son Kassius, 23, was born the following year but the former couple split soon after; seen in 2000 in Beverly Hills

Last year, Vanessa came to Megan's defense and shared that the beauty previously apologized for her involvement in their family drama.

In response to a fan on Instagram, Marcil penned at the time: 'She has apologized to both me and our child. She stated she is "disgusted" by her behavior. However, it wasn't her job to keep a grown man/biological parent in his son's life. That's on him.'

She added, 'It's true as you said that it's painful to watch #sharnaburgess try to gaslight her followers, however I do feel for her too.

'Only difference is that she's not a child like Megan was. She's being conned and would have to give up her whole 'fairy tale' in order to stand up for the truth at this point.'

The star then added of Burgess, 'But trust me, in her gut, she knows that she's being lied to. I feel for her and her beautiful son. We [don't] really matter anymore. The kids do. One day we will all be gone and these siblings will all be together.

'My son is the oldest and he knows the real truth. He will protect them. Their safety and peace are all he cares about. The truth will always prevail in the end.'

Marcil expressed, 'It's good to be on the right side of history and to know I gave up everything to protect my son and stand up to the truth.'

One year earlier in 2023, Green claimed that Vanessa had kept their son Kassius out of his life amid his health struggles with vertigo.

'I mean, the relationship that I had with Vanessa was very toxic in that way. Like, it wasn't a loving, caring relationship,' the actor said on Monday's podcast episode

Last year, Vanessa came to Fox's defense and shared that the beauty previously apologized for her involvement in their family drama

One year earlier in 2023, Green claimed that Vanessa had kept their son Kassius out of his life amid his health struggles with vertigo

'Those years that he wasn't able to go see Kassius, Vanessa made no effort to make sure Brian got time with him,' Sharna alleged during a previous episode.

'Instead, she painted him as an absent father who chose not to be around for him. And I'm sure that information was fed to Kass, and I can't imagine how damaging that was for him.'

Brian also claimed, 'To find out after the fact that at the point when I started getting better, that she then was painting it that I had abandoned Kass during that time, when the reality was I was dealing with such brain fog in what I was going through.'

He added, 'It would've meant so much if Vanessa had decided, "Hey, I'm going to make sure while youre going through this that your son can still get to your house and see you."

'That would've just made an incredible difference in the situation. But that's not what went down. That's not how it happened.'

Marcil has previously alleged that she raised Kassius all on her own. She also claimed that he had taken her to court for years and requested for child support  which Brian denied.
Lindsay Lohan's mom Dina unveiled a major new transformation while attending the 2025 Luisa Diaz Foundation Gala in New York City on Tuesday.

The momager, 62, showed off a very taut and wrinkle-free visage at the event, which took place at Cipriani 25 Broadway.

Dina  who previously admitted to having neck surgery and a facelift  accentuated her very plump pout with a light pink gloss.

Her glamorous blonde waves cascaded around her face, and smoky makeup highlighted her magnetic eyes.

The mom-of-four wore a glamorous black gown with a sparkling silver cape and over-the-elbow black velvet gloves.

Her makeover comes after her daughter's recent transformation, which has been so incredible that a plastic surgeon wondered if she had been 'abducted by aliens.'

Lindsay Lohan's mom Dina, 62, unveiled a major new transformation (L) while attending the 2025 Luisa Diaz Foundation Gala in New York City on Tuesday; (R) Pictured in 2017

The momager showed off a very taut and wrinkle-free visage as well as plump lips at the event, which took place at Cipriani 25 Broadway

Dina was joined by daughter Aliana Lohan, 31, at the event.

Lindsay's sister wowed in an electric blue gown with floral embellishments.

They also posed with Luisa Diaz, who founded the non-profit organization which hosts the gala, and Anna Rothschild.

The annual charity event focuses on uplifting communities by promoting kindness, empowering individuals, and supporting survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and other forms of abuse.

In 2023, Dina revealed that she had a custom facial rejuvenation surgery done, along with a facelift and necklift.

'I always believed in growing old gracefully, but if you want to do something for yourself, go for it,' she told Page Six.

To get the look, she turned to Dr. Ira Savetsky, a plastic surgeon based on the Upper East Side of New York.

'I wanted to look like a younger version of myself. Most of my friends did this 10, 15 years ago,' she added.

She's since been flaunting her youthful looks all over social media in various selfies.

Dina  who previously admitted to having neck surgery and a facelift  accentuated her very plump pout with a light pink gloss

Her glamorous blonde waves cascaded around her face, and smoky makeup highlighted her magnetic eyes

Dina was joined by daughter Aliana Lohan, 31, at the event. Lindsay's sister wowed in an electric blue gown with floral embellishments

Aliana wore her dark tresses in a half updo

They also posed with Luisa Diaz, who founded the non-profit organization which hosts the gala

Luisa stunned in a baby blue gown

In another snap they were joined by Anna Rothschild

Last year Dina was called out by fans online for allegedly filtering and airbrushing her selfies.

She raised eyebrows with her suspiciously smooth and youthful appearance on social media.

Some of Dina's age-defying selfies have even led the Living Lohan star's followers to accuse her of using editing tools like FaceApp to turn back the clock.

'Someone take FaceApp from this woman. You can't just crank the filter up and expect it not to be obvious,' one commented.

'You didn't look like this TWENTY years ago. No one is fooled. This is sad,' another wrote.

One even accused Dina of trying to outdo her famous daughter, Lindsay.

'I don't understand why mothers these days want to look younger than their own daughters,' they wrote.

Another commented, 'This is so ridiculous. How old do you think you look in this filter? Just be real. This is an embarrassment.'

Last year Dina was called out by fans online for allegedly filtering and airbrushing her selfies

In 2023, Dina revealed that she had a custom facial rejuvenation surgery done, along with a facelift and necklift (both pictured with Lindsay in February 2023)

Her new look follows her daughter's recent stunning transformation; (L) seen November 2024, (R) seen in 2012

Dina was married to Lindsay's father Michael from 1985 to 2007; The family pictured in 2003

Dina was married to Lindsay's father Michael from 1985 to 2007.

Aside from Lindsay, and Aliana, they also share sons Michael Lohan Jr., 37, and Dakota 'Cody' Lohan, 28.

Meanwhile Lindsay's glow-up has also sparked a debate among fans who've been trying to figure out what procedures the star may have done to achieve the vibrant look.

Previously, Dr. Jonny Betteridge, an aesthetics doctor, has claimed the star could have spent up to 300K in plastic surgery procedures to achieve her glowing, fresh-faced appearance.
With Real Housewives of Sydney's third season coming to a close, it's back to reality for this reality star - but the real world is coming up even juicier than her life on the screen.

Dr Kate Adams, who joined the Binge show's lineup of ladies in season two, dished the tea while dressed to the nines at the show's glamorous reunion watch party.

The glitzy shindig, which was held at The Plaza Hotel on Tuesday night, saw fellow castmates Terry Biviano and Martine Chippendale also in attendance, as well as Real Housewives of Melbourne alum Jackie Gillies.

While wearing a dramatic floor-length frock that showed off her killer figure, Kate shared some saucy, titbit secrets about her mystery man, whom she teased on the show.

'We had an absolutely fabulous seven days in New Zealand,' she told Daily Mail Australia.

'We were so loved up. We spent every waking minute together. I don't think we left that hotel room a lot.'

Kate Adams (pictured), who joined the Binge show's lineup of ladies in season two, dished the tea while dressed to the nines at the show's glamorous reunion watch party

While wearing a dramatic floor-length frock that showed off her killer figure, Kate shared some saucy, titbit secrets about her mystery man, whom she teased on the show

However, the holiday romance was a short-lived one, with the long distance getting in the way of their relationship.

'For me, that didn't last,' she said, adding: 'that's not to say that we left on bad terms, we live in different cities.'

Kate wasn't doom and gloom about the failed match, in fact, she found it liberating.

'When you throw away this idea of having to have one man for the rest of your life because you have to have children, once you let that go, it gives you this psychological freedom to explore whatever it is you wanna explore.'

And besides, Kate wasn't shy to admit that there may be another man on the scene...

'He might just be a little bit more trained than the last,' she divulged with a smirk on her face.

'You know, hes a little bit more of a feminist.'

Girls bathroom chatter aside, Kate wasn't afraid to address the nitty gritty topics too, including her IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) journey.

The glitzy shindig, which was held at The Plaza Hotel on Tuesday night, saw fellow castmates Terry Biviano (far left) and Martine Chippendale (third from left) also in attendance, as well as Real Housewives of Melbourne alum Jackie Gillies .

During the show's third season, Kate opened up about freezing her eggs and potentially having children in the future.

But the process was trickier than the reality star expected.

'The IVF journey was really, really hard for me, like it was actually awful,' she revealed.

Noting how gruelling the process was and how expensive it became, she decided to not go through with a second round.

'If you know truly that you want to have children, I think it's a really great option for people.

'To be able to have that option, we're so blessed,' she added.

But reflecting on her thriving veterinarian clinic and the full life she lives on the daily, Kate was happy with the deck of cars she'd ended up with.

'I never set out to be a career person and I never set out to be what I am today.'

She went on: 'Life has this way of being able to serve out things that you dont expect and I think you have to make the best of whatever that is.'

But reflecting on her thriving veterinarian clinic and the full life she lives on the daily, Kate was happy with the deck of cars she'd ended up with

'When it comes to women in general, I do think that we all have a little part of ourselves where we feel like we haven't lived up to whatever society has expected of us.

'So that might be because we feel like we haven't done well enough in our career or it might be because we haven't been mothers.

'I don't prescribe to that,' she iterates, leaving some words of wisdom for her fans.

'We have to enjoy whatever slightly sh*t sandwich that we're given.'

And with another season of RHOS under belt, a new man on the scene and a thriving vet hospital to tend to, it's clear to see Dr Kate Adams' life is as far from a sh*t sandwich as you can get.

In fact, things are just about to get interesting.
Chinese commerce ministry spokesperson comments on upcoming high-level economic, trade meeting with U.S.

Xinhua) 10:09, May 07, 2025

BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese commerce ministry spokesperson on Wednesday commented on an upcoming high-level economic and trade meeting with the United States by Vice Premier He Lifeng during his visit to Switzerland from May 9 to 12.

The new U.S. administration has taken a series of unreasonable and unilateral tariff measures, which have severely disrupted bilateral economic and trade ties and the international economic and trade order, posing serious challenges to the recovery of the global economy. In order to defend its legitimate rights and interests, China has taken resolute countermeasures, the spokesperson said.

Recently, the U.S. side has expressed willingness to engage in dialogue on tariffs and related issues through multiple channels. After a careful assessment of the U.S. messages, China has decided to engage with the U.S. side, taking into account global expectations, national interests, and calls from the American industry and consumers, the spokesperson said.

He, as the Chinese lead person for China-U.S. economic and trade affairs, will have a meeting with the U.S. lead person Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

The spokesperson noted that China's position has been consistent -- if forced to fight, China will fight to the end, and for talks, the door is open.

Any negotiations must be based on mutual respect, equality, and reciprocal benefit. If the U.S. side wants to resolve issues through dialogue, it must face the negative impact of its unilateral tariffs and respect international trade rules, fairness and justice, as well as rational voices from all sectors, the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson said the U.S. side must demonstrate sincerity, correct its wrong practices, and meet China halfway in a bid to resolve concerns of both sides through equal consultation.

The spokesperson warned against any attempts to use dialogue as a cover for coercion or blackmail, and stressed that China will not seek to reach any agreement at the expense of sacrificing its principles or the cause of international fairness and justice.

Also commenting on ongoing negotiations between the United States and other economies, the spokesperson said compromise does not earn respect, and only by holding firm to principles and fairness and justice can countries safeguard their interests.

China remains committed to expanding opening up and will resolutely defend the multilateral trading system centered on the World Trade Organization and share development opportunities with all countries in the world, the spokesperson said.

China stands ready to work with all parties to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, enhance coordination, and jointly resist unilateral protectionism and hegemonic bullying practices, in a bid to uphold free trade and multilateralism and promote an inclusive economic globalization, the spokesperson added.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
The Beckhams have been hit by fears they won't be able to heal their rift with Brooklyn as Victoria has been having 'sleepless nights' over the feud.

The fashion designer, 51, and her husband David, 50, are said to have been left heartbroken at the distance that has grown between them and their eldest son.

The Beckham family have been at the centre of a feud that has pitted Brooklyn, 26, and his wife Nicola Peltz, 29, on one side, and the rest of the family on the other.

Things came to a head when Brooklyn and Nicola were no shows at any of David's 50th birthday celebrations last week, with The Mail revealing that Romeo's girlfriend Kim Turnbull has been made the 'scapegoat' in the feud.

Now, it has been claimed that Victoria and David are sadly 'near breaking point' over the ongoing feud and there are fears the family might not come back from it.

'David and Victoria are over it,' the source told US Weekly.

Victoria Beckham (pictured with David on Saturday) has reportedly been having 'sleepless nights' amid her ongoing rift with her son Brooklyn

The fashion designer, 51, and David, 50, are said to have been left heartbroken at the distance that has grown between them and their eldest son (Victoria and Brooklyn are pictured in 2019)

Victoria has also reportedly been having 'sleepless nights' over the ongoing rift, which has been described as her 'worst nightmare'.

A source told The Sun: 'This is Victoria's worst nightmare. The thought of any of her children falling out gives her sleepless nights.

'It's been difficult with Brooklyn since he met Nicola, and there's no denying that there was a family fallout over their wedding.

'But Victoria and David have worked hard to get things back on track, so this is a real blow.'

MailOnline has contacted a representative for the Beckhams for comment.

Elsewhere on Tuesday, Victoria took to Instagram to promote her business ventures as she remained silent on the ongoing rift claims.

She shared a photograph with fashion critic Osama Chabbi, who recently interviewed her in Dubai as part of his series, where he has conversations with fashion designers.

Her social media has been filled with photographs from various parties held to celebrate David's 50th birthday last week, including a bash at their Cotswolds home.

Brooklyn and his wife Nicola Peltz were no-shows at any of David's birthday events last week despite allegedly pulling out of the Met Gala to attend (pictured at the gala in 2022)

Elsewhere on Tuesday, Victoria took to Instagram to promote her business ventures as she remained silent on the ongoing rift claims

She shared a photograph with fashion critic Osama Chabbi, who recently interviewed her in Dubai as part of his series, where he has conversations with fashion designers

The fun-filled celebrations culminated with a massive party held at London's esteemed Michelin-star restaurant Core on Saturday night.

The bash was attended by A-list stars including Tom Cruise while David and Victoria's children Romeo, 22, Cruz, 20, and Harper, 13, all attended, though Brooklyn was notably absent.

It was claimed Brooklyn and Nicola pulled out of attending the Met Gala with the intention of attending David's birthday party, but were no shows at both events.

Brooklyn was reportedly planning to attend David's 50th birthday party, but felt too uncomfortable to come after he felt Nicola was being blamed for the rift with his family.

Claims that Brooklyn and Nicola were rebuffed when they asked David and Victoria to celebrate David's birthday privately were also said to be untrue.

Sources close to Nicola told US website TMZ they wanted 'to get together privately' to avoid Romeo's girlfriend Kim Turnbull as the couple are said to 'have a problem' with her.

Brooklyn missed out on David's early celebrations in Miami last month as well as parties in the Cotswolds, France and London this week.

Following the birthday party snub, it was revealed Brooklyn also declined an invitation by his father to join him and his brothers on a 'boys' fishing trip to celebrate his 50th.

David and Victoria's children Romeo, 22, Cruz, 20, and Harper, 13, joined them for a week of celebrations (pictured on Wednesday in the Costwolds), though Brooklyn was notably absent

The Mail revealed David invited Brooklyn on a short break six months ago when he began planning, yet his son failed to go despite arriving in the UK the day he went with Romeo and Cruz.

Sources have suggested that Brooklyn's decision was influenced by his American actress wife Nicola, 30.

'Brooklyn was asked to join them ages ago,' one claimed.

'Then he came to London in time but he didn't go. Once again David made the best of things and had a great time with Cruz and Romeo.'

David still offered an olive branch to his son as he shared snaps from the trip, as he captioned one of his posts: 'You were missed @brooklynbeckham.'

The Mail revealed Romeo's girlfriend Kim Turnbull is being made the 'scapegoat' in the feud between Brooklyn and David - with Nicola 'at the centre' of the rift.

Kim and Brooklyn were undeniably close for a brief period  as photographs of them together in 2016 show - but suggestions that they were ever an item are wide of the mark, according to well-informed sources who spoke to The Mail.

In fact, younger brother Cruz, 20, personally shut down the gossip recently when he responded to an Instagram post showing a picture of Romeo and Kim together.

The Mail revealed that Romeo's girlfriend Kim Turnbull (pictured) has been made the 'scapegoat' in the feud

In a now-deleted message, one user commented: 'It's appropriate to date your brother's ex too? Cool.'

Cruz replied: 'Brooklyn and Kim never dated.'

One friend told the Mail's Katie Hind at the weekend: 'This is nothing to do with Kim and is all about Nicola.

'All David and Victoria want is their son back  and they will be there to welcome him any time.'

Family friends claim Brooklyn's wife has a pattern of 'starting an argument' before family events and then preventing her husband from attending.

Some believe that friends of Nicola have been behind the briefings about Kim being the cause of Brooklyn's rift with his family, some of which went so far to claim that he had told them he refused to come to any event at which Kim was present.

A source close to the family told MailOnline: 'Brooklyn was close to Kim because she was dating Rocco and they all hung out in a tightknit friendship group. But that was years ago. Brooklyn and Kim were close, but there was never any romance.

'It seems Nicola doesn't like Brooklyn spending any time with the Beckhams full stop and is using his previous closeness to Kim and her getting in with the family as a reason to not be around them.

Some conspiracy theories around the row have centred on Kim, 25, who was previously close with Brooklyn (both pictured in 2016) but brother Cruz has denied that the pair ever dated

'She denies it, but Nicola has been controlling him since the wedding. The family - including the brothers - have had enough of it.

'This is the narrative that's been put out to other news outlets, that Romeo is dating his brother's ex-girlfriend - and that's really weird, so that's why they wouldn't want to be around the family when she is there.

'But none of this is true. And it's really upset Romeo and his parents because Kim is seemingly being used by Nicola as a reason to start the rift. Romeo is furious at the suggestion that he would bring an ex-girlfriend of Brooklyn into the family when there never was any romance.'
Emily In Paris filming for series five has kicked off as Lily Collins and the gang returned to Rome to shoot the new season of the Netflix hit.

The actress, 36, who plays marketing executive Emily Cooper, was spotted filming with her current on-screen lover Eugenio Franceschini.

However, a love triangle is never far away from Emily, as her ex-boyfriend Gabriel (Lucas Bravo) dashed to the Italian capital to try and win her back.

The fourth series concluded on a cliffhanger as Gabriel arrived in the ancient city, but Emily had finally ditched her phone to enjoy a day out with new love Marcello.

But the social-media mad character was back online in the new series, as she was snapped taking selfies from the back of a cream Vespa.

Emily looked typically chic in a black and white geometric print jumpsuit which was belted around her waist and styled with towering silver platforms.

Emily In Paris filming for series five has kicked off as Lily Collins and the gang returned to Rome to shoot the new season of the Netflix hit

The actress, 36, who plays marketing executive Emily Cooper, was spotted filming with her current on-screen lover Eugenio Franceschini

However, a love triangle is never far away from Emily, as her ex-boyfriend Gabriel (Lucas Bravo) dashed to the Italian capital to try and win her back

Meanwhile, Marcello was looking sharp in a cream linen suit and dark red polo shirt, which he teamed with a pair of smart black shoes.

As well as a new romance, the British-American star was also debuting a sleek cropped bob, after previously sporting long wavy tresses.

The upcoming series will see Emily juggle her potential new life in Rome and her past life in Paris.

Emily was left with a decision at the end of series four, as she was offered the position of the lead of the Italian Agence Grateau office.

Despite falling in love with Paris and the agency, Emily admitted she was tempted by a new life - with a new man - in Rome.

Fans will remember Emily and Gabriel's romance fell apart after they finally tried to make a go of their relationship after he broke off his relationship with Camille.

Following a fake pregnancy scandal, Camille revealed she wasn't actually expecting and Emily and Gabriel tried to work out a romantic future.

However, it wasn't meant to be for the star-crossed lovers who were unable to work out their differences and she was pushed into the arms of Marcello, after they met on the slopes of Megeve, when she was abandoned at the top of a slope by Gabriel.

The fourth series concluded on a cliffhanger as Gabriel arrived in the ancient city, but Emily had finally ditched her phone to enjoy a day out with new love Marcello

Emily looked typically chic in a black and white geometric print jumpsuit which was belted around her waist and styled with towering silver platforms

She added a pair of huge white square shades to the outfit

As well as a new romance, the British-American star was also debuting a sleek cropped bob

The social media-mad character was spotted snapping selfies on her phone

Emily pulled cute expressions for her pictures on her cream Vespa

They crossed paths again at a polo match in Paris and they enjoyed a night out together in the city, which lasted until the following morning when he asked her to come and visit him in Rome.

Emily followed her heart and travelled to meet Marcello, where she was also tasked with acquiring his family's business by her boss Sylvie. However Emily was reluctant to mix business with pleasure.

Emily and Marcello hit a stumbling block when he learned of her plans to try and secure a professional relationship with his family, who owned a luxury cashmere company, but they eventually managed to iron their issues out.

At which point, Gabriel had a candid conversation with Alfie [Lucien Laviscount], who urged him to try and win Emily back, despite previously being romantically involved with her himself.

But despite dashing to Rome with the hope of reuniting, Emily was nowhere to be seen as she enjoyed her romantic day out with Marcello.

Speaking about the upcoming series, Lucas said: 'I think Gabriel realized that he doesn't want to let Emily go so easily, and he might have made a big mistake.

'They certainly had a big fight and a cooling off period. But I think he realized that by the end of the season, that there's something that he doesn't want to let Emily go.

'I don't know what that means. Doesn't necessarily mean they're going to be together instantly or ever. I don't know, but I think he feels there's unfinished business with the two of them.'

She was pictured hugging a member of the crew on the set

Judging by the cosy snaps Emily and Marcello look to be giving their romance a go

Lily was seen chatting with members of the crew in between takes

The character was sporting a black manicure with silver jewellery

The actress was perched on the stylish Vespa

Emily looked impeccably stylish in the bold look

The group were spotted filming in sunny Rome

However, there is hope for the couple as according to creator Darren Star, the season is not fully moving to Rome.

He told Deadline: 'She didn't change her Instagram handle to Emily in Rome. She is working in Rome sometimes. Sylvie's company has an office in Rome.

'Emily's getting that on its feet. I don't necessarily think that it means a permanent  in my mind, it's definitely not a permanent  move to Rome. We're not leaving Paris.'

The series is expected to air towards the end of this year, but one of the main characters has revealed they won't be returning.

Camille Razat, 31, who plays Camille in the romantic comedy drama - took to Instagram to reveal the shocking news with an emotional goodbye post after fans fumed at bosses for 'destroying the character'.

Camille has played Emily's pal and love rival in the show since the programme hit the streaming service back in 2020.

Now, after five years on our screens as Camille, the actress is ready to move on.

Sharing various snaps from her time on the show, she wrote: 'After an incredible journey, I've made the decision to step away from Emily in Paris.

In between takes, Lily was seen warming greeting members of the team

She opted for subtle but chic make-up

She took a look at one of the cameras

Lily was seen saying hello to a male crew member

They were spotted comparing notes on the scene

Lily clutched her phone in her hand

'It has been a truly wonderful experience, one filled with growth, creativity, and unforgettable memories.

'I'm deeply grateful to @starmandarren and the entire team at @netflix and @paramountpics for their trust and for giving me the opportunity to bring Camille to life and leaving the door open for her return, as she will always be a part of Emily In Paris world.

'This character has meant a lot to me, and I feel that her storyline has naturally come to an end. It felt like the right moment to explore new horizons.

'I've recently wrapped two series: Nero for Netflix and the Lost Station girls for Disney+. I'm also excited to share that I've launched my own production company, @tazar_production.

'We mainly produce music videos and short films for now, but we're currently developing our first feature film, something I'm truly passionate about and excited to grow.

'I leave the show with nothing but love and admiration for the cast, crew, and fans who have supported us along the way.

'Thank you for the beautiful ride.'

Her fans and co-stars rushed to the comments section to share their support.

The new pictures come after fans were saddened to learn that one of the show's main character's won't be returning in the next series

Camille Razat, 31, who plays Camille in the romantic comedy drama - took to Instagram to reveal the shocking news with an emotional goodbye post after fans fumed at bosses for 'destroying the character'

Camille (pictured) has played Emily's pal and love rival in the show since the programme hit the streaming service back in 2020.

Lily Collins said: 'Love you sister. It's been a wild ride and an absolute pleasure. You're a rockstar. So proud of you.'

Philippine Beaulieu added: 'You'll be so missed ma cherie Frenchie!!!'

Lucien Laviscoun wrote: 'From day one you've been my rider on this show. Your passion for story telling, your dark sense of humour, your unwavering ability to stay true to yourself, when everything's pushing you in a different direction.

'You're special Camille and I feel absolutely honoured to of been able to dance with you these past seasons. Keep on shining.

'I'm going to miss laughing with you. I'm cheering you on in everything you do.'

Emily In Paris premiered on Netflix in October 2020.

The synopsis on the streaming service reads: 'New passions. New fashions. New Emily?

'A plucky American marketing whiz spreads her wings in life and love after landing her dream job in Paris.'

Emily In Paris premiered on Netflix in October 2020 and the show, created by Darren Star, has had 40 episodes run over four seasons

It stars the likes of Lily Collins, Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu, Ashley Park, Lucas Bravo, Samuel Arnold, Bruno Gouery, William Abadie and Lucien Laviscount

The show, created by Star, has had 40 episodes run over four seasons.

It stars the likes of Lily, Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu, Ashley Park, Lucas, Samuel Arnold, Bruno Gouery, William Abadie and Lucien.

Camille has played a number of other roles over the years. She appeared as Lea Morel in The Disappearance in 2015.

She's also had roles in Capitaine Marleau, Rock''n Roll, Girls with Balls, Paris Pigalle and The 15:17 to Paris.

Most recently she played Quitterie in The Accusation and is due to appear in Waltzing with Brando.

Stream all seasons of Emily In Paris on Netflix now.
Livia Guiggioli has opened up about her marriage and split from ex-husband Colin Firth, admitting that she doesn't 'miss any' of the fame that came with her old life.

The activist, 55, divorced from the Pride and Prejudice actor, 64, in 2021 after 24 years of marriage having met on the set of a BBC documentary in 1996.

The couple's relationship allegedly broke down in 2016, with Livia understood to have been having an affair with Italian journalist Marco Brancaccia, 55.

But they have since moved on with Livia in a relationship with Scotsman Callum Grieve, and Colin likewise, having been seeing TV writer Maggie Cohn since 2022.

Yet despite their new romances, Livia and Colin are still 'always together', the actor's ex-wife revealed in a new interview.

Livia Guiggioli, Colin Firth's ex-wife, has opened up on her marriage to the actor in a new interview with HELLO! Magazine

Livia, 55, divorced from the Pride and Prejudice actor, 64, in 2021 after 24 years of marriage having met on the set of a BBC documentary in 1996

Speaking to HELLO! Magazine, Livia said: 'We're always together. Colin and I have a wonderful relationship. We have worked a lot on that, and on keeping the family together.

'I have a partner, he has a partner and we're all together all the time. It's an extended, crazy family.'

Surprisingly, Livia revealed that her new boyfriend, Callum, and Colin actually share a love for Arsenal FC, and have bonded over their passion.

The King's Speech actor and his ex share two children together who are now grown up - Luca, 24, and Matteo, 21.

After their split, Colin announced in 2019 that he and Livia remained 'united in their love for their children'.

With Livia now living a quieter existence in her native Italy, she told HELLO! that she 'doesn't miss' the stardom of her old life.

'I don't miss any of it. Sometimes I look at my incredible high heels, gowns and clutches and think: "I'll never wear them again, and I can't remember who that person was,"' she said.

Livia has received much praise for work as an activist in recent years, having made documentaries about the secretive underbelly of the fashion industry's sweatshops and worked on a number of environmental projects.

The couple have since moved on, with Livia having been dating Scotsman Callum Grieve (pictured)

She co-founded Eco-Age, for instance, a company which helped businesses adopt regenerative models and avoid greenwashing.

Heaping further praise onto Colin, the Italian previously said 'she could never have done it if I wasn't married to him' in a 2021 interview.

She argued her campaigns would not have sparked such interest if she wasn't married to the acting superstar.

She told The Times: 'I could never have done what I have done if I wasnt married to Colin... I dont care, we do what is needed.'

The couple's split made headlines after it was revealed in March 2018 that Livia had a year-long affair with Italian journalist Marco Brancaccia.

She sparked a police investigation after claiming her childhood friend Marco harassed her with a 'frightening' barrage of messages.

Colin then confronted his wife over a 'heartbreaking and malicious' email from her ex-lover in March 2018.

As well as the email to the actor, his wife claims she received phone calls, lived in terror and believed she was being followed.

Livia also said emails containing pictures of her were sent to her husband after the pair reunited.

But Mr Brancaccia told The Times that the activist had invented the claims to cover up their affair, which happened between 2015 and 2016.

Livia later dropped stalking charges against the journalist in 2018.
Tony Mojanovski was fighting fit on Tuesday night.

The Married At First Sight Australia groom was seen for the first time since he was rushed to hospital for emergency surgery after suffering a heart attack last month as he attended the JAECOO launch hosted by Channel Nine in Sydney.

The reality star beamed on the red carpet as appeared well as he mingled with guests at the event.

The 53-year-old council worker, who starred on the most recent season of the Channel Nine dating show, looked smart in a Louis Vuitton shirt.

It featured dappled blue tones over a white based as well as the brand's luxury logo throughout.

He added a pair of trousers with a zip detail on the leg and a pair of designer sneakers as well as a chunky watch.

Also turning heads was another MAFS star, Jules Robinson, who stunned in a fitted pink gown that showed off her figure.

Tony Mojanovski (pictured) was seen for the first time since he was rushed to hospital for emergency surgery after suffering a heart attack last month as he attended the JAECOO launch hosted by Channel Nine in Sydney

The reality star beamed on the red carpet as appeared well as he mingled with his stunning guest at the event

Also turning heads was another MAFS star, Jules Robinson (right), who stunned in a fitted pink gown that showed off her figure

The dress including a draped detail on the shoulder, and she added a dazzling silver purse which matched her strappy heels.

Married At First Sight stars Evelyn Ellis and Duncan James made a date night of it, with Evelyn looking gorgeous in a white mini dress and pointed heels.

Meanwhile Duncan went for a cream suit along with a matching shirt and a pair of trainers.

Sylvia Jeffreys was also turning heads, opting for a sleek black ensemble with a pair of sandal heels.

It comes after Tony was admitted to Wollongong Hospital last month morning after experiencing ongoing chest pains.

Tony underwent emergency surgery later that day, with doctors performing a coronary artery bypass graft to treat the blockage and save his life.

Speaking exclusively to Daily Mail Australia from his hospital bed, Tony said he was now in a stable condition and feeling much better after the terrifying ordeal.

'Luckily I went straight to the doctors,' he explained. 'During the week I wasn't feeling well. It has been happening for a long time - I was just feeling not right, like something was on my chest every now and then, giving me heartburn and stuff like that.'

The dress including a draped detail on the shoulder, and she added a dazzling silver purse which matched her strappy heels

Married At First Sight stars Evelyn Ellis and Duncan James made a date night of it, with Evelyn looking gorgeous in a white mini dress and pointed heels. Both pictured

Sylvia Jeffreys (pictured) was also turning heads, opting for a sleek black ensemble with a pair of sandal heels

Tony said the persistent symptoms eventually became too much to ignore.

'I felt a bit off too. That's why I thought, you know what, I'm going to take it easy this week because it was just too much,' he said.

Reflecting on the health scare, Tony admitted it was 'pretty scary' and revealed there could be a family link to heart issues.

'My mum passed away from an aneurysm,' he said, adding that smoking, stress and partying may have contributed to his health decline.

'I was smoking, the cigarettes, the stress, being on the boat, partying - just too many things. It caught up with me, mate,' he admitted.

Tony said he now plans to slow down and prioritise his health moving forward.

'I just need some time without the partying,' he added.

Despite undergoing major surgery, Tony appeared in good spirits when his MAFS co-star Ryan Donnelly paid him a surprise visit at hospital.

The 53-year-old council worker, who starred on the most recent season of the Channel Nine dating show, looked smart in a Louis Vuitton shirt

It comes after Tony was admitted to Wollongong Hospital last month after experiencing ongoing chest pains. Pictured with co-star Ryan Donnelly

Ryan shared a heartwarming photo to Instagram showing him leaning over Tony's hospital bed, the pair laughing and clutching each other's hands.

Tony wore a white T-shirt and grey shorts as he lay comfortably in bed, flashing a big smile, while Ryan sported a black short-sleeve shirt and beige pants as he leaned in for a hug.

'Tony Time had a brief intermission dropped by to see my best mate and he was literally on the phone with Adrian [Araouzou].

Can't keep a good Macedonian man down, he'll be back to his best in no time!' Ryan captioned the post.

Tony was paired with DJ and wedding MC Morena Farina, 57, on this year's season of Married At First Sight, where he quickly became a fan favourite thanks to his laid-back attitude and old-school charm.
Feuding celebrity cooks Nagi Maehashi and Brooke Bellamy have gone head-to-head at a prestigious book awards ceremony - and only one woman could be victorious.

Maehashi walked away the from 2025 Australian Book Industry Awards (ABIA), held in Melbourne on Wednesday, with the prize for Illustrated Book of the Year for her cookbook RecipeTin Eats: Tonight.

Brisbane baker and social media sensation Bellamy was nominated for the same award for her own cookbook Bake with Brooki, which Maehashi claims contains plagiarised recipes.

Maehashi said in a short video before her win that she was 'excited and nervous' to be honoured at the ceremony.

Bellamy was a no-show at the Zinc function centre at Fed Square.

A simple message on the ABIA Instagram page read: 'The winner of the 2025 Australian Book Industry Awards (ABIA) Illustrated Book of the Year is: RecipeTin Eats: Tonight (Nagi Maehashi, Macmillan) Congratulations!'

Maehashi (pictured) walked away the from 2025 Australian Book Industry Awards (ABIA), held at Zinc Fed Square in Melbourne on Wednesday, with the prize for Illustrated Book of the Year for her cookbook RecipeTin Eats: Tonight

Maehashi said in a short video before her win that she was 'excited and nervous' to be honoured at the ceremony

The book awards night is the latest chapter in the feud between the two chefs.

Maehashi sparked a firestorm last week when she claimed the former travel blogger-turned-baker copied her caramel slice and baklava recipes.

The RecipeTin Eats founder made the first accusation on April 29, sharing a lengthy blog post to her website and a series of slides to her Instagram account.

Maehashi said she first raised concerns with Penguin publishing in December after a reader emailed her highlighting 'remarkable similarities' between her caramel slice recipe and the version in the newly released Bake with Brooki.

'I put a huge amount of effort into my recipes. And I share them on my website for anyone to use for free,' Maehashi wrote.

'To see them plagiarised (in my view) and used in a book for profit, without credit, doesn't just feel unfair. It feels like a blatant exploitation of my work.

'To me, the similarities between the recipes in question are so specific and detailed that calling these a coincidence feels disingenuous.'

A simple message on the ABIA Instagram page read: 'The winner of the 2025 Australian Book Industry Awards (ABIA) Illustrated Book of the Year is: RecipeTin Eats: Tonight (Nagi Maehashi, Macmillan) Congratulations!'

Maehashi added that profiting from plagiarised recipes was 'unethical'.

'It's a slap in the face to every author who puts in the hard work to create original content rather than cutting corners,' she wrote.

Maehashi also claimed Bellamy plagiarised other authors, which she did not name.

However, hours after the allegations first surfaced, US baker Sally McKenney of Sally's Baking Addiction fame claimed on Instagram that Bellamy had also copied her vanilla cake recipe.

Two days later, Maehashi claimed Bellamy may have copied 'virtually word for word' the recipe for Portuguese tart from the late Bill Granger's 2006 cookbook.

'It is so blatant to me that the wording in the method part of the recipe is copied almost exactly,' Maehashi told East Coast Media.

'To me, it is the biggest and strongest example of plagiarism that I have seen by this author.'

Both Penguin and Bellamy denied the allegations, with the baker saying she had been making and selling her recipes for years before Maehashi's were published.

Brisbane baker and social media sensation Bellamy (pictured) did not attend

She was was nominated for the same award for her own cookbook Bake with Brooki, which Maehashi claims contains plagiarised recipes

'I did not plagiarise any recipes in my book which consists of 100 recipes I have created over many years,' Bellamy said.

'In 2016, I opened my first bakery. I have been creating my recipes and selling them commercially since October 2016.'

Bellamy added that she was deeply distressed by the allegations and for being attacked online by social media trolls.

'I do not copy other people's recipes,' Bellamy said.

'Like many bakers, I draw inspiration from the classics, but the creations you see at (her Brisbane bakery) Brooki Bakehouse reflect my own experience, taste, and passion for baking, born of countless hours of my childhood spent in my home kitchen with Mum.'

While the Brisbane baker insisted she did not copy the recipes, she 'immediately offered to remove both from future reprints to prevent further aggravation'.

Bellamy has since hunkered down at her Brisbane home and issued a plea for privacy as she closed her personal Instagram account to the public after savage attacks by trolls.

'The past 24 hours have been extremely overwhelming,' she said in a statement last week.

It's the latest twist in the feud between the two chefs this week following heated plagiarism allegations

'I have had media outside my home and business, and have been attacked online. It has been deeply distressing for my colleagues and my young family.

'While baking has leeway for creativity, much of it is a precise science and is necessarily formulaic.

'Many recipes are bound to share common steps and measures: if they don't, they simply don't work.

'My priority right now is to ensure the welfare of the fantastic team at Brooki Bakehouse and that of my family.'

Maehashi also pleaded with social media users, fans and supporters to leave Bellamy alone in a video shared to Instagram.

'Please stop the trolling,' Maehashi said.

'Now I know I've made serious allegations, but this does not justify the personal attacks that I've seen online against Brooke Bellamy.

'I do not support it, and I'm asking you to stop. I know that this is just a very, very small percentage of people online. I know the majority of people are good, fun, normal people.

Bellamy has denied the allegations, claiming she has been making the recipes years before Maehashi

'Share your opinions, have heated debates, support Brooki, support me, disagree with both of us, think we're pathetic, whatever you want, but just keep it respectful, no trolling, no hateful comments.'

Maehashi said Penguin denied the allegations, saying via lawyers: 'Our client respectfully rejects your client's allegations and confirms that the recipes in [Bake with Brooki] were written by Brooke Bellamy.'

The ugly food row saw Bellamy dropped as an ambassador for the government's Academy for Enterprising Girls.

Meanwhile, Maehashi also faced criticism from celebrity chef Luke Mangan who said she had failed to credit him properly for a recipe she used in one of her cookbooks.

RecipeTin Eats has 1.5million followers on Instagram and Maehashi has also authored award-winning cookbooks Dinner and Tonight.

Bellamy quickly became a global sensation after sharing videos on TikTok, which receive millions of views every day.

She is best known for her cookies and has opened pop-up stores in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Demi Sims and her new girlfriend Jazz Saunders only had eyes for each other as they packed on the PDA on their first holiday together.

The TOWIE star, 28, and the Made In Chelsea regular, 23, went public on the red carpet in London in March and now they're soaking up the sun together in Marbella, Spain.

And the couple look totally loved-up, with Demi sharing a slew of snaps on Tuesday from their romantic getaway.

The pair of reality TV stars packed on the PDA in one picture showing them sharing a kiss at a swanky beach club.

With Demi wearing a pair of loose three-quarter-length shorts over a skimpy black and white bikini, her partner gave herself a few inches in a pair of silver heels and a pink bikini.

Demi Sims, 28, and new girlfriend Jazz Saunders, 23, packed on the PDA as they enjoyed their first holiday together in Marbella, Spain

Demi also posed up a storm for some solo photos, where she showed off her slimline figure in a black bikini and added to the look with a coordinated pair of sunglasses

The couple took a selfie while enjoying a cuddle on a sunbed - and they looked as smitten ever with Jazz cracking a beaming smile for the picture

The couple also posed for a selfie while enjoying a cuddle on a sunbed - and they looked as smitten ever with Jazz cracking a beaming smile for the picture.

Demi also posed up a storm for some solo photos, where she showed off her slimline figure in a black bikini and added to the look with a coordinated pair of sunglasses.

The TOWIE personality also pictured herself eating a burger and chips off of Jazz's tanned stomach.

The smitten Instagram post was captioned: 'First holiday with my boo. Bringing the body heat @dr.granthamlet.'

Since they began dating, Demi and Jazz have regularly shared steamy snaps of themselves.

Demi posted pictures of them sharing a passionate kiss at Soho's Sketch restaurant in late March, with the TOWIE star's hand perched in her girlfriend's back trouser pocket.

Jazz put on a stylish display for the outing in a backless white top, pairing it with some baggy blue jeans and letting her blonde tresses loose.

In a mirror selfie included in the same post, Demi was revealed to be wearing a light grey vest top with black shoulders and thick silver chain necklaces.

Demi also pictured herself eating a burger and chips off of Jazz's tanned stomach

One racy snap showed Demi cradling her new girlfriend's slimline figure

Demi donned a black bikini layered with a pair of baggy grey shorts for another solo snap

Jazz, who joined MIC last year, only came out as gay in a social media post in early March 'after her fans figured it out'.

The personality vowed to open up more in the show's new series, the first episode of which aired on March 31.

Speaking about her new romance, Demi told The Sun earlier this year: 'Romance is going really good, Jazz is a lovely girl and we really get along and it's just really healthy.

'We actually met through Jazz's friend Yasmine Zweegers, she saw me on a night out and said to Jazz, "You'd really fancy Demi, she's a bit of you". That's how it all started.'

'I'm really enjoying, we really get along and I'm so happy to have met her. She's got a really good heart and that's really hard to come across these days.'
Gypsy-Rose Blanchard broke down in tears and declared that she wanted to finally end the 'reputation' war between herself and ex-husband Ryan Scott Anderson - five months after their divorce was finalized.

The 33-year-old ex-con and the 38-year-old special education teacher's 20-month marriage effectively ended in March 2024 when she surreptitiously rekindled her on/off romance with fiance Ken Urker.

Gypsy-Rose immediately got pregnant with now four-month old daughter Aurora Raina Urker four months following her release from the Chillicothe Correctional Center for second-degree murder.

On Tuesday, Blanchard was outraged over Ryan posting a screengrab of their January 14th text exchange where she admitted to feeling 'lost, like, I don't know what is real anymore' during her first weeks post-partum.

Anderson captioned his TikTok from last Saturday: 'I speak the truth... always have. Only be real.'

'Whenever you put out text messages between you and I that I think are sacred. That should, in my opinion, be sacred between us. And when I mean sacred, I mean that, there are very few people I trust in this world. And I have always counted you as one of them,' the Life After Lock Up star said in a 10-minute TikTok video.

Gypsy-Rose Blanchard broke down in tears and declared that she wanted to finally end the 'reputation' war between herself and ex-husband Ryan Scott Anderson - five months after their divorce was finalized (pictured January 2024)

'Seeing that text message that you released for what? For what?! Because you wanted to show that you were the truth-teller on TikTok? Well, that hurt my trust.'

This, after Gypsy-Rose fully admitted she had 'put out personal information of yours that I knew that you didn't want out there' that was 'below the belt and [went] too far.'

'I'm sorry. I truly am sorry, even if you get me many other jabs, I won't put out anything else about you,' Blanchard promised.

'I'm not going to try to hurt you. I know that in your heart that you care about me. And I'm just sorry. I'm sorry that you fell in love with a piece of s*** like me.'

The My Time to Stand co-author also admitted it must 'be really hard' for Ryan watching her and Ken's baby bliss on her Lifetime reality show, but she's 'just tired of this war and I want it to end.'

'I hate that we keep doing this back and forth, but we're not trying to hurt each other, we're trying to hurt each other's reputations,' Gypsy-Rose explained.

'I can't keep texting you. I can't keep talking to you. I have a whole family. I'm in a committed relationship. I have a daughter with this man. We can't be friends. Do you understand what position I'm in? As long as I keep talking to you, you feel some sort of connection. But that can't be. We can't do that. We're not at that space.'

Blanchard continued: 'I want you to be happy. I want you to move on. I want you to move on with someone that's going to make you happy, that's going to love you like you should be loved. And I know that it's hard because I get it. I did you wrong and I'm sorry for that.'

The Louisiana native blissfully recalled a time when Anderson didn't even care about social media: 'It was never about the public back then. And it's so hard to see what you have become.'

The 33-year-old ex-con and the 38-year-old special education teacher's 20-month marriage effectively ended in March 2024 when she surreptitiously rekindled her on/off romance with fiance Ken Urker (R, pictured May 2)

Gypsy-Rose immediately got pregnant with now four-month old daughter Aurora Raina Urker (pictured April 20) four months following her release from the Chillicothe Correctional Center for second-degree murder

On Tuesday, Blanchard was outraged over Ryan posting a screengrab of their January 14th text exchange where she admitted to feeling 'lost, like, I don't know what is real anymore' during her first weeks post-partum

Anderson captioned his TikTok from last Saturday: 'I speak the truth... always have. Only be real'

The Life After Lock Up star said in a 10-minute TikTok video: 'Whenever you put out text messages between you and I that I think are sacred. That should, in my opinion, be sacred between us. And when I mean sacred, I mean that, there are very few people I trust in this world. And I have always counted you as one of them'

She continued: 'Seeing that text message that you released for what? For what?! Because you wanted to show that you were the truth-teller on TikTok? Well, that hurt my trust'

This, after Gypsy-Rose fully admitted she had 'put out personal information of yours that I knew that you didn't want out there' that was 'below the belt and [went] too far'

Blanchard promised: 'I'm sorry. I truly am sorry, even if you get me many other jabs, I won't put out anything else about you. I'm not going to try to hurt you. I know that in your heart that you care about me. And I'm just sorry. I'm sorry that you fell in love with a piece of s*** like me' (pictured April 17)

The My Time to Stand co-author also admitted it must 'be really hard' for Ryan watching her and Ken's baby bliss on her Lifetime reality show, but she's 'just tired of this war and I want it to end'

Gypsy-Rose explained: 'I hate that we keep doing this back and forth, but we're not trying to hurt each other, we're trying to hurt each other's reputations'

Blanchard added: 'I can't keep texting you. I can't keep talking to you. I have a whole family. I'm in a committed relationship. I have a daughter with this man. We can't be friends. Do you understand what position I'm in? As long as I keep talking to you, you feel some sort of connection. But that can't be. We can't do that. We're not at that space'

The Louisiana native blissfully recalled a time when Anderson didn't even care about social media: 'It was never about the public back then. And it's so hard to see what you have become' (pictured October 29)

In 2015, Gypsy-Rose gave her online boyfriend Nicholas Godejohn (R) - who had an IQ of 82 - duct tape, gloves, and a knife to stab her physically-abusive mother Clauddine 'Dee Dee' Blanchard 17 times in the back while she slept in her bed

The conspiring couple then stole $4,400 in cash from Dee Dee (R) and mailed the murder weapon back to the autistic 35-year-old's home in Wisconsin where they fled by bus

Blanchard and Nicholas' murder - which they blamed on Dee Dee's undiagnosed Munchausen syndrome by proxy - inspired Hulu's eight-part series The Act and Lifetime movie Love You to Death, both of which were released in 2019

And while The Kardashians guest star served eight years of her decade-long sentence for second-degree murder, Godejohn is serving a life sentence without parole at Missouri's Potosi Correctional Center plus an additional 25 years for armed criminal action

Catch more of Gypsy-Rose's continuing drama on the second season of Gypsy Rose: Life After Lock Up, which airs Mondays on Lifetime.

In 2015, Blanchard gave her online boyfriend Nicholas Godejohn - who had an IQ of 82 - duct tape, gloves, and a knife to stab her physically-abusive mother Clauddine 'Dee Dee' Blanchard 17 times in the back while she slept in her bed.

The conspiring couple then stole $4,400 in cash from Dee Dee and mailed the murder weapon back to the autistic 35-year-old's home in Wisconsin where they fled by bus.

Gypsy-Rose and Nicholas' murder - which they blamed on Dee Dee's undiagnosed Munchausen syndrome by proxy - inspired Hulu's eight-part series The Act and Lifetime movie Love You to Death, both of which were released in 2019.

And while Blanchard served eight years of her decade-long sentence for second-degree murder, Godejohn is serving a life sentence without parole at Missouri's Potosi Correctional Center plus an additional 25 years for armed criminal action.
Benjamin Bratt was one of the hottest and hunkiest actors in Hollywood when he became famous on Law & Order.

The star also dated the biggest movie icon of the day, Julia Roberts.

When Julia won an Oscar in 2000 for her drama Erin Brockovich, Bratt was right by her side. She even acknowledged him in her acceptance speech and they kissed on the red carpet.

But they broke up the next year after three years together.

He then wed Talisa Soto in 2002 just one year after leaving Roberts. Soto was a top model in the 1990s, working for Vogue and Versace. The Brooklyn native also ventured into movies, playing a Bond girl in 1989's Licence To Kill. Later she was seen in 1995's Mortal Kombat and 2002's Ballistic. Together they have two children: Mateo Bravery and Sophia Rosalinda.

Bratt is still as handsome as ever but now he is a silver fox. On Wednesday Bratt was seen heading into Good Morning America to chat up his role on season two of the Star Wars spinoff Andor.

Benjamin Bratt was one of the hottest and hunkiest actors in Hollywood when he became famous on Law & order. The star also dated the biggest movie icon of the day, Julia Roberts. But he no longer looks like this; seen in 2001

Bratt and Soto are rarely seen together. The two stay out of the Hollywood limelight as they live in San Francisco, where he grew up.

Bratt is still very active in Hollywood, however, as he appeared on the TV series Modern Family and Star.

In 2008 Benjamin told Latina magazine that Talisa is 'heart and soul personified.'

He also said, 'She makes me a better man. That sounds like a line from a movie. It is, right? No, it's hard not to speak in cliches about her, really, because so much has been made of my wife's outer beauty  and she is otherworldly beautiful  but as I've come to know her, her heart and who she is as a person is even more beautiful.'

The hunk added: 'What I dig about her is that she loves me. Even though she knows everything about me, she accepts me anyway, which is a pretty calming influence to have in your life and a great deal of support.'

Bratt rose to fame in the 1990s.

He's best known for his role as Detective Reynaldo Curtis on the NBC drama Law & Order from 1995 to 1999, earning an Emmy nomination for his performance.

Bratt has also appeared in films such as Miss Congeniality (2000), Traffic (2000), Despicable Me 2 (2013), Blood in Blood Out, and Pinero.

In 2017, he voiced Ernesto de la Cruz in the Oscar-winning Disney-Pixar movie Coco.

While on GMA on Wednesday, he shared a behind-the-scenes look at Season 2 of Andor on Disney+.

Andor is the story of Rebel spy Cassian Andor's formative years of the Rebellion and his difficult missions for the cause.

Bratt is still as handsome as ever but now he is a silver fox

On Wednesday Bratt was seen heading into Good Morning America to chat up his role on season two of the Star Wars spinoff Andor

Andor is the story of Rebel spy Cassian Andor's formative years of the Rebellion and his difficult missions for the cause

Meanwhile, last year Roberts has shared a rare snap of her cuddling her husband to mark his 55th birthday.

The Pretty Woman actress, who is renowned for keeping her relationship with cinematographer Danny Moder out of the spotlight, posted the image on her Instagram to mark his big day.

She captioned the snap, which showed Julia in Danny's arms as she looked up adoringly at him while grinning: 'Happy Birthday to this amazing man who lights up our world.'

Even though Julia is relatively private about her life with Danny, she told the 'Today' show about him at the end of last year: 'It all starts with Danny Moder, you know?

'He's just really our anchor and our person. And in the most beautiful way, [he's] the captain of our ship. Truly.'

But Julia, who has 19-year-old twins Hazel and Phinnaeus and 16-year-old son Henry with her husband, joked he should not receive all the credit for creating their blissful family life.

She added: '(I'm) not, like, giving it all away. It's just that for me, understanding how deeply felt life could be really started with him.'

Bratt next to his siren wife Talisa Soto in May 2024. They wed in 2002 in San Francisco

Talisa, far right, with Carey Lowell, Timothy Dalton in Licence To Kill in 1989

They also made the cover of Vanity Fair in 2002

Bratt looked dapper in Etro at the 90th Academy Awards in 2018. The Miss Congeniality actor brought as his date Soto as he supported his film Coco

Bratt and Brooke Shields face to face in the romantic comedy Mother Of The Bride

The couple met in 2000 while working together on the film 'The Mexican', which saw Julia star alongside Brad Pitt, 60.

At the time, the actress was dating actor Bratt, while Danny was married to make-up artist Vera Steimberg, 51.

After both their relationships ended, the pair got hitched in July 2002.

Julia also broke her habit of keeping her family life private to mark their 21st wedding anniversary by posting an emotional tribute to Danny on social media in 2023.

And in 2022, she marked their 20th year as a married couple by posting a snap of them kissing, which she captioned: 'TWENTY #can'tstopsmiling#can'tstopkissing.'

Danny also marked the anniversary by writing on social media alongside a photo of him and Julia: 'Today we start our 20th year of marriage. This photo was on a dusty road before that big idea just holding on to this beautiful girl one day at a time. One epic day at a time.'
Halle Berry's stylist took to Instagram on Tuesday to coo over her accomplishment of dressing the A-list actress in a very sheer gown at the Met Gala 2025 that raised eyebrows.

Lindsay Flores shared several images of the former Bond girl at the gala in the creation that showed off some of her private parts.

And in her caption Flores wrote, 'THEY FINE, THEY DANDY,' as she also showed an image of Halle with her boyfriend Van Hunt.

Lindsay then rattled off Berry's credits: her dress was by Laquan Smith, jewels by Cartier, makeup by Hung Vanngo, hair by Sara Seward and nails by Kim Truong.

Seward also took to Instagram to glow as she said Berry's look was 'magic.'

Halle Berry's stylist took to Instagram on Tuesday to coo over her accomplishment of dressing the A-list actress in a very sheer gown at the Met Gala 2025 that raised eyebrows

Lindsay Flores, seen left, shared several images of the former Bond girl at the gala in the creation that showed off some of her private parts

The dress left fans horrified as Halle went underwear-free on the red carpet in her most risque look ever.

The 58-year-old Oscar-winning actress modeled a plunging, beaded black and sheer striped LaQuan Smith gown, but risked a major wardrobe malfunction every time she moved due to her lack of lingerie.

Parts of her midriff and crotch were exposed in the daring ensemble, which she teamed with a cropped black blazer with shoulder pads.

The actress wasn't the only star daring to bare: White Lotus star Lisa exposed her underwear, Kim Kardashian showed off her curves, and Sabrina Carpenter and Jenna Ortega opted for no-pant ensembles.

Halle gave guests and viewers at home a further eyeful as she put her ample cleavage on display.

The dress boasted a train, and her look was accented with a small fascinator hat and flashy statement jewelry.

Social media fans branded the star 'disgraceful' for flashing her pubic area while others said she looked 'great' but urgently needed to cover up.

The 58-year-old Oscar-winning actress modeled a plunging, beaded black and sheer striped LaQuan Smith gown - but risked a major wardrobe malfunction every time she moved due to her lack of lingerie

She also showed off her butt and her long train

One person wrote, 'Halle... my girl. I expected more from you. We get it. The body is bodying and you have aged like a fine, fine wine. But this is not the move.'

Someone else added, 'Halle Berry is still hot but doesn't need to dress like that.'

Another disappointed fan zoomed in on a photo of her hip area and accused her of 'dropping the ball.'

An angry spectator weighed in, 'Halle Berry's outfit was disgraceful. You could see her pubic area,' with a red-faced emoji.

'This needs a warning,' someone else complained while another person simply asked, 'Where are her undies?'

This year's Met Gala theme was Superfine: Tailoring Black Style - based on Monica L. Miller's 2009 book Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity - and the dress code was Tailored for You.

The theme was meant to pay homage to Black dandyism, a style with European roots that started post-Emancipation and came out in full force during the Harlem Renaissance.

Smith told Vogue about his creation, 'It captures the themes message of self-expression and being bold in the way that you look and dress.'

He further noted, 'The dresss details showcase the ethos of the theme: exaggerated lines, luxurious fabrics, and sheer boldness.'

Parts of her midriff and crotch were exposed in the daring ensemble, which she teamed with a cropped black blazer with shoulder pads

Social media fans branded the star 'disgraceful' for flashing her pubic area while others said she looked 'great' but needed to cover up

LaQuan described the overall look as 'a mix of sexy-Bond-girl meets Harlem Renaissance.'

He highlighted collaborating with Halle as he shared with Vogue, 'She knows exactly who she is and has such a clear sense of style, but shes also incredibly collaborative. During the fittings, she wasnt just stepping into a garmentshe was shaping it with me.'

He recalled, 'She pushed for certain cuts that enhanced her movement, and we played with sheer panels to strike that perfect balance between elegance and edge. Her input was always intentional, always rooted in how she wanted to feel in the piecenot just how it looked.'

The designer, who also dressed Ciara for the occasion, told People, 'I've always been inspired by the essence of Harlem Renaissance and this jazzy era.

'For me, sharp tailoring and an exaggerated shoulder is what I've always been incorporating in my collections. I love the '80s as well, and the fearlessness of Josephine Baker, so I think that you're going to be able to get some of the essence of all of those notes through the design.'

The star with partner Van Hunt while leaving the Carlyle Hotel in NYC

One person asked, 'Where are her undies?'

Halle teamed her attention-grabbing dress with a shrunken, cropped black blazer with shoulder pads; seen with Smith

The star confidently posed in the extremely racy look

The concept of this year's gala came from the Costume Institute's spring exhibition highlighting Black dandyism.

The co-chairs, who hosted the swanky affair, included actor Colman Domingo, Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton, rapper A$AP Rocky and musician and Louis Vuitton men's creative director Pharrell Williams. LeBron James will also join, acting as honorary chair.

Around 600 were expected, with athletes Simone Biles and ShaCarri Richardson among them.

The official guest list is customarily kept under wraps, but the A-list lineup leaked on Monday, hours before stars started arriving.

The evening was full of unexpected and noteworthy moments.

Diana Ross had a grand arrival as she wore a dramatically long white cape, upstaging Zendaya at one point.

Meanwhile, Kylie Jenner walked the red carpet alone while boyfriend Timothee Chalamet skipped out on the event for a boys night.

And Rihanna revealed a baby bump as she announced she is expecting her third child with A$AP Rocky.
Michael J. Fox will be writing a new memoir - his fifth book.

The actor, 63, revealed his new book title and cover on Wednesday morning.

The book, co-written with Nelle Fortenberry, is called Future Boy: Back to the Future and My Journey Through the Space-Time Continuum, and is set to drop in the fall.

The memoir will focus on the year 1985, which is when Michael was working on both Back to the movie Future and the series Family Ties - as well as years before he was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease.

Michael was diagnosed in 1991 at age 29 with Parkinson's Disease while filming Doc Hollywood after experiencing a sore shoulder and twitching pinky; he went public with it in 1998.

'As we approach the 40th anniversary of Back to the Future, my thoughts turn to my adventures as a younger man,' he told People.

Michael J. Fox will be writing a new memoir - his fifth book; The memoir will focus on the year 1985, which is when Michael was working on both Back to the movie Future and the series Family Ties - as well as years before he was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. Pictured April 16, 2025

The actor, 63, revealed his new book title and cover

'This book has basically become a time machine for me, but unlike the DeLorean, there's plenty of room for anyone who'd like to climb in for the ride,' he added.

The book will also be released the same year as the 40th anniversary of Back to the Future - a film that cemented his star status.

Michael starred as teenager Marty McFly in the science fiction movie Back to the Future in 1985, as well as in the sequels Back to the Future Part II (in 1989) and Back to the Future III (in 1990).

He played Alex P. Keaton on Family Times from 1982 until 1989.

The Future Boy book will include cast member interviews from both the film and the series, according to People.

The actor told the outlet that that year was a 'chaotic' one for him.

'"The only reason for time is so that everything doesn't happen at once." I didn't say that, Einstein did,' he said.

Adding: 'I wonder if even Albert could make sense of my life in the first months of 1985, when time went rogue and took me with it. What was it like? In a word: busy.'

The book will also be released the same year as the 40th anniversary of Back to the Future - a film that cemented his star status; seen with Christopher Lloyd in Back to the Future 1985

He played Alex P. Keaton on Family Times from 1982 until 1989; pictured with his Family Ties co-stars

The actor told the outlet that that year was a 'chaotic' one for him; seen in Back to the Future II

Michael's previous memoirs include: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Future, Always Looking Up, Lucky Man and No Time Like the Future.

'What's exciting for me is that this new book is less memoir and more perspective - I consider questions I believe we all have about our lives,' he said prior to the outlet.

Noting that he asked himself, 'Who am I? Where am I? Where am I going? I don't want to give anything away, but I think I've figured it out.'

Future Boy: Back to the Future and My Journey Through Space-Time Continuum is set to drop on October 14.
Tom Cruise was seen in Tokyo this week to promote his latest Mission: Impossible film. The 62-year-old Hollywood icon looked younger than usual.

The ex-husband of Katie Holmes seemed like he was in his forties and not his sixties as he wore a pale gray suit.

DailyMail.com has again asked a plastic surgeon to weigh in on what he had done after he first looked super youthful in April in Las Vegas.

'It still say that does not look like he has had any plastic surgery,' Dr Kahn told DailyMail.com. 'It actually looks like he has lots a ton of weight and been working out more. He also has a nice summer tan going on.'

There is no indication that Cruise has been taking Ozempic.

In April Dr Kahn suggested that Cruise - who is dating Ana de Armas - may have given up carbs and alcohol as he has no puffiness in his face, which he had in 2023

Dr Kahn previously said he thinks the screen hunk may have done Microdermabrasion. 'It's a simple procedure that yields great results,' he said.

Tom Cruise was seen in Tokyo this week to promote his latest Mission: Impossible film. The 62-year-old Hollywood icon looked younger than usual. The ex-husband of Katie Holmes seemed like he was in his forties and not his sixties as he wore a pale gray suit

The 62-year-old veteran action star seen with a puffier face in Beverly Hills in 2023

Microdermabrasion (MDA) is a minimally invasive epidermal resurfacing procedure used to treat uneven skin tone/texture, photoaging, striae, melasma, and scars, including acne scars. It is one of the most common nonsurgical cosmetic procedures performed in the United States.

Cruise also seems to have a new hairstyle with longer locks and bangs for a new boyish glow.

Mission: Impossible  The Final Reckoning will open on May 23.

In the past DailyMail.com has reported that Cruise may had gotten fillers in his face like Botox to freeze his facial muscles.

This comes after Ballerina actress Ana de Armas, 37, accidentally dropped a big clue that she is dating Cruise.

The cute hint could be seen in her latest Instagram post.

The Cuban brunette beauty was wishing her adorable gray-and-white dog Salsita a happy 5th birthday when she added a telling photo.

Cruise speaks onstage during the 84th Annual Academy Awards held at the Hollywood & Highland Center in 2012 in Hollywood

Cruise and director Christopher McQuarrie pose for media upon his arrival at Gimpo Airport on Wednesday in Seoul, South Korea

Ana was sitting on a rug with her pooch in a living room with a kitchen behind her. She appeared to be at her sprawling $7M Vermont home.

And the clue stood out like a sore thumb. In the background was a bouquet of pink flowers.

Tom has a habit of sending fresh blossoms to pretty ladies. In 2006, he reportedly spent nearly $1,000 on flowers for Katie Holmes on Mother's Day. Holmes even mentioned in 2010 that Cruise would give her red roses frequently, according to People. In 2023 the Top Gun vet had a bouquet delivered to Shakira.

And de Armas even had one of the pink flowers tucked behind her ear as she smiled for the camera in perhaps a wink to her new companion.

Ana de Armas has accidentally dropped a big clue that she is dating Cruise. The cute hint could be seen in her latest Instagram post where she was wishing her dog Salsita a happy 5th birthday. Ana was sitting on a rug with her pooch in a living room with a kitchen behind her. She appeared to be at her sprawling $7M Vermont home

'My beautiful girl, mi Salsita, happy 5th birthday! I love you so much!' wrote the ex-girlfriend of Ben Affleck as she did not mention Tom.

This post comes after they were seen together in London at pal David Beckham's birthday party with wife Victoria.

And last week Tom and Ana were seen flying into London together before her 37th birthday.

In exclusive photos obtained by the Daily Mail, Hollywood icon Cruise, who has been linked to Armas since Valentine's Day this year, looked giddy as he piloted a helicopter into the UK capital with the brunette actress by his side.

Armas - who was last known to be dating Manuel Anido Cuesta, the stepson of Cuba's president - flashed a smile and her toned legs in a pair of mini shorts as she clutched her pet dog Elvis.

A pal helped walk another pooch on a leash.

Meanwhile Cruise flaunted his action-man credentials as he landed the chopper and showed off a buff frame in a tight T-shirt and jeans.

Cruise has been getting serious with Armas in recent weeks, the Daily Mail has learned, with one of his A-list exes even granting approval for the unlikely romance.

As for that A-list approval, it is understood Spanish actress Penelope Cruz - who dated the actor from 2001 to 2004 - is 'happy' that her ex-boyfriend has found new love.

Cruz, 51, and Armas have been friends ever since they co-starred in the 2019 movie WASP Network.

There is a closer look at the large pink bouquet on a white table

And de Armas even had one of the pink flowers tucked behind her ear as she smiled for the camera in perhaps a wink to her new companion

This post comes after they were seen together in London at pal David Beckham's birthday party with wife Victoria. Here Cruise is seen alone

'Ana has said that Penelope is happy for her, she approves,' an insider told the Daily Mail. 'They know each other from the movie and also they have friends in common in Madrid from when Ana lived there for a while.'

'Tom makes Ana feel safe and that is very important to her,' the insider added. 'She was flipped out by the fans and stalkers when living in Venice Beach [Los Angeles] so she moved to a remote part of Vermont.'

In 2022, Armas dropped over $7 million for a sprawling six-bed home in the Green Mountain State.

'She loves being away from the crazy,' the source explained. 'She has been traveling with Tom to busy cities like London, but he always makes her feel safe because he is thoughtful and he has a ton of security. He never puts her at risk, she is completely taken care of when she is in his company.'

Friends believe the relationship could last, with our insider pointing to the fact that Armas does 'not like to party', preferring quiet nights at home like her decades-older boyfriend.

Though another source stressed that the pair are 'taking it day by day' and that Armas 'does not give her heart away easy.'

'Ana has a thing for older men and Tom fits the bill of her type. The proof is in the pudding. Being affectionate with someone is not something that Ana would do for a role,' the second source added.

In November last year, Armas was linked to the stepson of Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel Bermudez, with the pair stepping out for a loved-up stroll in Madrid the following month.

Penelope Cruz, who dated Tom from 2001 until 2004 after they co-starred in Vanilla Sky, is 'happy' that the Oscar nominee is romancing de Armas (pictured in 2001)

Despite receiving massive backlash over the relationship, the actress, who fled communist Cuba age 18, did not shy away from engaging in some PDA with him. However, the relationship appears to have ended as swiftly as it began - with Cruise soon emerging on the scene.

In February, the pair were first spotted enjoying a dinner together - again, in London - on Valentine's Day.

At the time a source claimed to the Daily Mail that they were not romantically involved. Indeed, the insider insisted that the evening out had been strictly business related.

'Everything with Tom and Ana is innocent. They are hanging out to talk about future movies that they could do together,' the source said.
The Traitors winner Leanne Quigley reunited with her BBC co-stars as they celebrated the one year anniversary since they met in Inverness, Scotland to film the show.

Leanne took to Instagram to mark the occasion and revealed the 'Traitors family' had been 'secretly meeting up' throughout 2024.

The army veteran looked incredible as she stripped off in a tiny blue bikini as she posed with Minah, Liv and Elen in a hot tub.

The blonde beauty showed off her amazing figure in the swimwear as the girls stood up and beamed for a photo in the water.

In another picture, Leanne cut a trendy figure in a nude bodysuit and black blazer as she posed with BBC host Claudia Winkleman.

Elsewhere Leanne shared a series of group snaps which also included the likes of winner Jake Brown, Freddie Fraser and Leon Jackman.

The Traitors winner Leanne Quigley reunited with her BBC co-stars as they celebrated the one year anniversary since they met in Inverness, Scotland to film the show

Leanne took to Instagram to mark the occasion and revealed the 'Traitors family' had been 'secretly meeting up' throughout 2024.

She wrote: 'How has it been 1 whole year since we stepped on to that steam train in Inverness and met each other for the first time

'Happy anniversary to my Traitors family. Heres a lil dump of all of our secret 2024 meet ups'.

The post comes weeks after Leanne showed off her incredible figure in a white bikini once again as she enjoyed a glass of wine in a hot tub.

The reality star tied her long blonde tresses back in a bun as she revealed she is 'rested and recharged' following the glamping trip.

It comes after Leanne admitted in January that she hadn't received the prize money from the BBC after the final.

The army veteran appeared on This Morning after the final to discuss her momentous win after she and Jake Brown were the last contestants standing.

But she revealed she was yet to get her hands on her share of the 94,600 prize fund - with last year's winner Harry Clarke not getting his money until days after the final aired.

Asking whether she had received the money yet on the ITV chat show, Ben Shephard said: 'You have to wait for the show to air before you get your winnings - has it arrived yet?'

The army veteran cut a trendy figure in a nude bodysuit and black blazer as she posed with BBC host Claudia Winkleman

The blonde beauty beamed in a figure hugging dress as she posed alongside L-R Liv, Elen and Minah

Elsewhere Leanne beamed alongside fellow winner Jake Brown and Traitor Minah

Despite Minah being a Traitor on the BBC show, it seems winner Leanne has not held a grudge

She wrote: 'How has it been 1 whole year since we stepped on to that steam train in Inverness and met each other for the first time Happy anniversary to my Traitors family'

'No, not yet. No,' Leanne revealed.

She has previously mentioned her plans to use the money for further IVF rounds and her upcoming wedding to fiancee Sophie Jones.

Previously speaking to MailOnline, Leanne mentioned she was awaiting the cash after being asked if she'd spent it: 'No, not quite yet, we absolutely haven't had it yet.

'So, when that time comes, I think we'll go on a nice family holiday holiday.'

And on This Morning she said: 'I mentioned that I would love to have another baby, I'd love to try for IVF again and give my little boys a sibling.

'Also, We have a wedding to plan now. I got engaged back in August, which is just the best feeling.

'[My boys] are just amazing and they're warriors and they don't even know it.'

Speaking to MailOnline after winning The Traitors, Leanne admitted she has been eyeing up Ardross Castle in the Highlands, the one used for the show, as her wedding venue.

'We have got wedding planning to do,' she told MailOnline. 'We have just started. We haven't set a date yet but yeah we can get a wedding going.

'I actually looked at the castle because I didn't realise you could get married there. That would be so iconic. I would actually love that.'

Couples looking for the perfect wedding venue are actually able to hire the Great Hall at Ardross Castle, which can cater for up to 130 guests.

The post comes weeks after Leanne showed off her incredible figure in a white bikini once again as she enjoyed a glass of wine in a hot tub

The reality star tied her long blonde tresses back in a bun as she revealed she is 'rested and recharged' following the glamping trip

Leanne and Jake won the 94,600 prize fund which was split between them

Leanne added that she would 'absolutely' be inviting the cast of the BBC show to her big day, when it rolls around.

She quipped: 'I mean, the most incredible people I've ever met in my life, and the genuine love that we all have for each other.

'We've all had a few meet ups since leaving the castle and every time we see each other, it's just all love. It's so lovely.'

She also revealed plans to use some of the money to expand her family, as she said: 'I will absolutely be trying to have another baby, not straight away, maybe in a couple of years, I think.

'My family need a little bit of a rest at the minute. But I think we'll go through and freeze our eggs, hopefully get some embryos and get them in the freezer for the future.'

Leanne's win comes after a very difficult six months following her fiance Sophie's secret battle with cancer - which was diagnosed just weeks after she returned from filming.

Speaking to Metro, Leanne said of the ordeal: 'I would never, ever have gone away to film if Soph had cancer. We found out weeks after I got home.

'Actually, she found a lump maybe a month after, and it all happened very quickly from there. Ringing the bell now, radiotherapy to get through

'I only left the army actually in October, so I'm still very freshly out of the army. And with lots going on, first of all, with the twins, and then with my partner, we're going to take some time now to really enjoy family time.'
Piers Morgan has revealed the truth behind his short-lived interview with Kanye West, after the rapper stormed off just three minutes into the chat.

After sparking huge controversy with his tirades on social media, Kanye had agreed to an interview with Piers for his series Uncensored.

And in a video to launch his new profile on Substack, Piers, 60, shared with his followers the chaotic build-up to his interview with Kanye, 47, after he kept crew members waiting for two hours, before cancelling at the last minute.

Despite agreeing to instead be interviewed the following day, Piers went onto reveal that Kanye once again kept crew waiting, before suddenly taking offence that he hadn't been greeted by his moniker Ye.

Kanye then dramatically walked out after Piers accused him of failing to take accountability for his controversial comments on social media, which have branded 'antisemitic.'

While Piers criticised Kanye for his behaviour during the brief interview, he ended his video by offering him another interview, in a bid to 'hold him to account' over his comments.

Piers Morgan has revealed the truth behind his short-lived interview with Kanye West , after the rapper stormed off just three minutes into the chat

After sparking huge controversy with his tirades on social media, Kanye had agreed to an interview with Piers for his series Uncensored

In the nine-minute clip, Piers began: 'The Genesis of all this was two years ago I interviewed him, when he was going through his initial, slightly crazy phase where it appeared that he was embracing antisemitism in a pretty vile way.

'I took him on, it was a two-hour interview, it was quite fascinating, but he was reasonably normal, I would say, for a lot of that interview, quite reflective, quite sel-aware of what he'd done and almost apologetic.

'Two years forward and Ye has been on a systematic rampage of blatant ant semitism, embracing Adolf Hitler, Nazism, Swastikas, it's all been extraordinarily, and I think deliberately, offensive to Jewish people of course.

'It's caused huge upheaval, a lot of commerical deals have crashed, notably on X where he goes on these posting rampages.

'It seems like he's on a mission to attack everyone and everyhting blaming everyone and everything for all his woes, apart from the person who is most responsible, and that's him.

'I didn't think we'd get another interview with him because I've been lamasting him quite regularly on X, taking him to task there, but I kind of feel like I'm howling to the wind because nothing I do ever seems to prompt a suspension from X.

'I think the only time he got suspended was when he psoted some legal pornography which was a line that Elon Musk's team at X felt crossed their line but not the antisemitisim.'

Piers then shared that on Monday he was told that Kanye was ready to be interviewed, and would speak to him from Mallorca, alongside rapper and social media star Speako.

Kanye then dramatically walked out after Piers accused him of failing to take accountability for his controversial comments on social media, which have branded 'antisemitic'

Piers shared with his followers on Substack the chaotic build-up to his interview with Kanye, after he kept crew members waiting for two hours, before postpi=oning until the following day

'I was genuinely curious to hold him to account, is he just a massive troll, is he mentally unhinged or is he just an attention seeker, or is he just an antisemitic pro Hitler Nazi. I think at the very least he ought to be challenged in an interview format to determine what he is or isn't, to see if he has an explanation for what he's done.

'Anyway we were supposed to interview him on Monday night he kept my crew in Mallorca waiting for about two hours, he kept me [and my crew] waiting in London for two hours, all of this is expensive.

'Thousands of pounds and Euros were being expended waiting for his greatness as he would see it to do this actual interview and he didn't show. At the last minute he decided he'd rather do it the next day.'

'And I went ''OK, I'll give him one more chance'' obviously it was incredibly irritating, obviously my inclination was to wring him by his scrawny arrogant neck, but no, I gave him another chance, let's see if he rocks up the next night, which was last night, Tuesday night.

'Once again he kept us waiting for a couple of hours past the agreed time he was supposed to do the interview, and once again he was costing us time and money. And my patience was almost running out.

Then I got told, in the middle of another debate, he's ready and he'll do it, then I got told, actually he's taking a phone call, so let's see.

'Then he came back, so his greatness was now available for me to talk to him, and I talked to him for about three minutes, that's how long it took, this farce, when I asked him how he was, he pointed to the backdrop behind him, which implied he was in a great place.

'I said you seem really happy and content, which is in direct contrast to what is going on with you on social media, where you have 32million followers.'

Piers then revealed that Kanye went into a 'great theatrical strop' over the number of followers he was quoted to have, declaring that it was actually 33 million.

He continued: 'That was the most mortally offensive thing that anyone could say to him, this is the same guy, remember, who has recently sadi that all Jews should be whipped.

'That's one of the many things he said, but he was offended by the fact that I kind of cut off his d**k, by not getting the number of followers right.

'The number of followers is relevant and significant with Kanye West or Ye as he wants us to call him and he was angry that I called him Ye West even though his X profile says @kanyewest, but no he can't be called Ye West, I have no idea what he wants to be called or who he really is, I doubt he does either.

'But because I misnamed him that was another gregious offence to be added to the misnumbering of the total number followers and he said hhthat's the end now I'm out of herehh. Off he flounced.'

Piers then said that he went onto grill Kanye's pal Sneako for several minutes, but soon realised he 'wasn't going to be held accountable for anything' and he soon walked out of the interview as well.

Following the short-lived chat, Kanye himself took to X to post: 'Lets have a real interview someday Its all love,' brushing off the fact he'd made an early exit.

And in his video, Piers went onto call him out over the post, saying: 'But the trouble is, Ye, it's not all love is it?

'It actually all hate, it's hate towards everybody including your family, your ex wife towards Jewish peple towards other peple towards rappers, you've become a hate machine, fuelled on social media, all this vicious sentient to a vast audience and that is wrong.'

Last week, the rapper shocked fans when he appeared to come out as gay during a two-minute video rant, while referring to his ongoing custody battle with ex-wife Kim Kardashian

Calling for Kanye to be removed from X, Piers went onto defend his decision to have him on his show for an interview, saying: 'I did because he's not been held to account properly on X, he's getting away with this and it's amplifying his message.

'Now if Ye wants to have a proper interview with me about all this, I will do that, but if he wants to play silly games he can swing for it.

'If you want to sit in front me Ye get on a plane come to London and come to my studio and let's do this man to man face to face and you can be held accountable for your despicable actions on social media, let's see if you're manly enough to do that, or is it easier to attack people like Kim like Paris Hilton, the women, is it easier to attach them on social media then it is to face up to me.

'We'll see, some people think I shouldn't bother sitting down with you anymore, that's how far your stock has fallen.'

During the interview, Kanye first took umbrage at Piers using the surname West in his opening scene-setting intro, correcting the broadcaster - who clearly addressed him as 'Ye' in his first question - he said: 'I don't use the term West, you know, the whole drop the slave name idea?'

'Ok, so we just call you Ye, yeah?' Piers replied, and he responded: 'Yes sir.'

Piers then asked Kanye, who was joined by social media star Sneako, how his life had been recently, with Kanye noting the background, and where he was record the interview.

He said: 'You see that view?... Judge it on the view on the answer how my life is, judge me by the view.'

Piers responded: 'The view is Majorca, I've been there. It's a beautiful place, and for all intents and purposes, you seem very relaxed and happy.

'That is in direct contrast to your public image at the moment, over the last couple of years, led by your ferocious [he begins to interrupt] Well, hang on. Let me finish the question'

Ye hit back: 'But I already disagree, it's not in contrast, there's so many people and artists that are championing the idea of someone being able to just express who they really are, and have been able to go through the war of being attacked by the banks, being attacked, you know, by the banks - that's the best way to put it!

'Being attacked by the banks, and to still be here with this view is, you know, that's the win. So I think that's, I'm in contrast to your contrast.'

Piers then attempted to finish his question, saying: 'OK, but the point I was gonna make is that, I watch what you put out on X - you've got 32 million followers, so you're one of the most followed people'

A bristling Ye retorted: 'Now, look, right now you're not going to take inches off my dick, bro. Like, how many followers do I have?'

When Piers asked how many the correct number was, Ye said the journalist had a staff of people who could look up the figure. Piers replied: 'I'm told it's 33 million now. So congratulations, you're slightly bigger following than I thought'

But the irritated rapper, who has four children by Kim Kardashian, began comparing himself to former music legends, saying the Piers Morgan Uncensored host was trying to undermine him.

He said: 'Your information is correctI'm a gift, bro. I mean, why do all you people in media act like you haven't played my songs at your weddings or graduations or at funerals, and when your child was born, you know, you take somebody that's living like a [John] Lennon, a Michael Jackson, and you just take all this time to, like that nuance right there, it's idiotic.

'It just shows the hate that you put out for people that put love. There's so much love in the art I put out.'

A baffled Piers added: '...What are you talking about? I haven't said anything?'

Ye concluded: 'Now you are not taking accountability or responsibility No sir, this is what you get for now we can, we can circle back when you can count.'

Taking off his mic, he then stormed off the set, leaving the interview in little more than two minutes.

Last week, Kanye appeared to come out as gay during a manic rant concerning his ex-wife Kim Kardashian and their ongoing custody dispute.

Adorned in an all-black outfit and face mask, the Grammy winner had been talking about not seeing his four kids that he shares with Kim, 44.

As he concluded the two-minute diatribe, he said: 'I ain't got no motherf****** legacy n****, why the f*** you think I am s****ing out.'

He then appeared to say: 'I'm gay. [inaudible] in charge of my legacy and I'm gay. I'm in charge of my legacy.'

Social media users have debated over whether he actually said 'I'm gay', or was speaking about himself and repeating 'I'm Ye'.

It comes after a separate post to Kanye's X account just last week in which he made remarks concerning him and his male cousin having a incestuous relationship.

While teasing a new song, titled 'COUSINS', he said: 'This song is called COUSINS about my cousin that's locked in jail for life for killing a pregnant lady a few years after I told him we wouldn't 'look at dirty magazines together' anymore.

'Perhaps in my self centered mess I felt it was my fault that I showed him those dirty magazines when he was 6 and then we acted out what we saw.

'My dad had playboy magazines but the magazines I found in the top of my moms closet were different. My name is Ye and I sucked my cousins d*** till I was 14.'

Following a series of posts, he then shared the rainbow emoji to X, writing: 'This is my new logo', before adding that he wasn't actually gay.

In his latest statement, West also said: ''I'mma go get these kids, bro. I'm talking to the lawyers - it gets to the point where I don't lose my f***in' mind where I got to get used to not seeing my kids.'

The Stronger artist added, '[DJ] Akademiks put that battery in my back, bro - cause I was in the airport by myself  I'mma go get these kids, man!'

West, who recently returned from Japan, has been working on new music as of late and corresponding with fans on social media about the upcoming slate of releases.

He previously shared a series of X posts on March 19 in which he said that he was put off by a white woman being in control of his black children.

West also shockingly said that he wished he had children with Paris Hilton instead of Kardashian.

Kanye had referenced how Kardashian had got her start in the limelight by acting as Paris' assistant.

'Kim was Paris Hilton's assistant. I should've had babies with Paris Hilton over Kim Kardashian!' he said in the widely panned remarks.

Kanye and Kim share four children together: North, 11, Saint, 9, Chicago, 7, and Psalm, 5.

'Could you imagine if I had kids with Paris Hilton? How many hotels I would have right now? Think about that. The Hilton. The Hilton s***', he said.

He was swiftly banned from Twitch after making the remarks, with his channel going down 10 minutes after he started streaming.

West has remained in the crosshairs of controversy for much of the year amid a torrent of posts propagating antisemitism.

On February 11, the shop on West's Yeezy Website - which he advertised with an expensive ad during the Super Bowl - was taken offline by Shopify after he was selling a white shirt with a black swastika in the center. He has also frequently made posts praising Adolf Hitler.

West spoke more about the controversy in a series of posts on February 20 - promising to wear the swastika shirt onstage at the Super Bowl.

'Next year I'm performing at the superbowl wearing my wittle T shirt,' he said. 'People with money bought my wittle t shirt.'

West has remained in the crosshairs of controversy for much of the year amid a torrent of posts propagating antisemitism (pictured in February)

He added that Shopify 'gave [him his] account back' after taking down his store after controversy erupted over the shirts, but that he was 'not going to use it.'

The Anti-Defamation League said in a post on X: 'As if we needed further proof of Kanye's antisemitism, he chose to put a single item for sale on his website  a t-shirt emblazoned with a swastika.

'If that wasn't enough, the t-shirt is labeled on Kanye's website as 'HH-01,'which is code for 'Heil Hitler.'

'Kanye was tweeting vile antisemitism nonstop since last week. There's no excuse for this kind of behavior.'

The organization added: 'Even worse, Kanye advertised his website during the Super Bowl, amplifying it beyond his already massive social media audience.'

Sources close to Kardashian have told DailyMail.com that she is now taking extra precautions and has hired guards to be with her 24/7 amid his erratic behavior.

The reality star has also told relatives to be careful sharing anything about her children online, the source revealed.

She has instructed her closest allies not to post about their locations or upload photos or messages that could identify where they might be.

'She's absolutely horrified,' the source told the Daily Mail. 'Like every time things get bad with Kanye, somehow they get worse.'

They finalized their divorce in 2022 and agreed to joint custody of their children, but the conflict between them has continued.

'I HAVENT SEEN SAINT THIS YEAR,' he wrote, despite the fact that they were pictured together in January.

Although West has accused Kardashian of not allowing him to see his children, the Daily Mail can confirm that he saw Saint, Chicago and Psalm at the time.
Tom Cruise and Hayley Atwell received a warm welcome from fans as they arrived in Seoul on Wednesday for a Mission Impossible promotional event.

The pair, joined by co-star Simon Pegg, signed autographs at the airport ahead of the much-anticipated release of Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning this month.

Lead actor Tom, veteran of eight films in the series, wore a thick buttoned shirt as he landed in South Korea.

The Hollywood icon, 62, added some black trousers and a chunky silver watch to his look, letting his long brown hair loose as he greeted enthusiasts for the action series.

English actress Hayley, 43, matched Tom in a short-sleeved black buttoned shirt with black trousers and sported a pair of black-rimmed squared glasses as she offered a friendly wave to the crowd.

Hot Fuzz star Simon, 55, cut a laid-back figure in a beige jacket with matching beige trousers adding a black t-shirt and black cross-body bag to the look.

Tom Cruise received a warm welcome from fans as he arrived in Seoul on Wednesday for a Mission Impossible promotional event

He was joined by English actress Hayley Atwell as they arrived in South Korea for their pre-release tour

Reprising his role as the titular hero Ethan Hunt, Tom takes on his biggest mission yet, after a tense cliffhanger saw the spy determined to track down cyber weapon The Entity and learning that his team was betrayed and his 'secrets compromised'.

The film, which has faced multiple delays, is finally due to hit cinemas on May 23 2025.

The latest busy promo session comes after Tom stepped on stage for a press conference in Japan ahead of his new film.

The star looked dapper as he joined his co-stars to promote the latest film in the franchise at Toho Cinemas Roppongi Hills in Tokyo on Wednesday.

Among the stars in attendance was English actress Hayley, who reprises her role as Grace, a former thief turned IMF agent and ally to Tom's character, Ethan.

Hayley looked effortlessly chic as she stepped out in a black leather bomber jacket, with matching wide-leg trousers and white stilettos.

Meanwhile Tom sported a smart ensemble consisting of grey suit with a matching polo shirt for the appearance, as it was revealed advance screenings will begin from May 17 in Japan.

They were joined by a number of other stars from the movie, including Simon, Greg Tarzan Davis and Pom Klementieff, as well as director Christopher McQuarrie.

The movie star signed autographs at the airport ahead of the much-anticipated release of Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning this month

Lead actor Tom, veteran of eight films in the series, wore a thick buttoned shirt as he landed in South Korea

The Hollywood icon, 62, added some black trousers and a chunky silver watch to his look

Reprising his role as the titular hero Ethan Hunt, Tom will take on his biggest mission yet

Tom let his long brown hair loose as he greeted enthusiasts for the action series

The film, which has faced multiple delays, is finally due to hit cinemas on May 23 2025

On Saturday, Tom was joined by his new girlfriend Ana de Armas for David's star-studded 50th birthday bash, with the star later spotted in a background of a snap shared from the party on Instagram.

While Tom had seemingly arrived on his own at the swanky celebrations at Notting Hill's Core restaurant on Saturday, hours later the facade dropped as he was spotted leaving in a car with the actress.

The couple made an effort to hide their relationship as they left the venue in the early hours shielded by umbrellas, before ducking behind the seats as they sat together in the back of the vehicle.

While they were trying to conceal their appearance together, bleary-eyed Tom appeared to find the whole thing quite amusing as he was spotted laughing and smiling as their sneaky moment was caught on camera.

Ana, who was wearing an elegant strappy black dress, meanwhile kept her head down as she avoided being photographed with Tom, following their best efforts to keep their joint attendance quiet.

Earlier in the evening, Tom made a low-key arrival at the celebration, following a series of reports that his girlfriend was also invited to the star-studded event.

English actress Hayley, 43, matched Tom in a short-sleeved black buttoned shirt with black trousers

Also there was Simon Pegg, 55, cut a laid-back figure in a beige jacket with matching beige trousers

He added a black t-shirt and black cross-body bag to the look as he greetd fans and took photos at the airport

It comes after Tom was beaming as he stepped on stage for a press conference in Japan on Tuesday

Among the stars in attendance was English actress Hayley, who joins Tom in the highly-anticipated film

His new girlfriend Ana de Armas was spotted dancing in a snap from David Beckham's 50th birthday, also attended by Tom, posted to Victoria's Instagram Stories on Monday

If the secret wasn't out already, Ana provided fans with a further clue as to her new romance on Monday when she posted a picture on Instagram featuring a bouquet of pink flowers

Tom appeared to enter the venue solo, spotted sitting in the back of a black cab as he pulled up to the exclusive spot.

Ana had joined her new beau in London earlier last week as they both jetted into the capital ahead of her own birthday on April 30.

Tom and Ana have been linked since Valentine's Day this year and they appeared to confirm their romance as they flew into London together last week, just days before her birthday.

The actress was also spotted dancing the night away in a snap from the star-studded bash posted to Victoria Beckham's Instagram Stories on Monday.
Nicola Peltz and her husband Brooklyn Beckham have returned to social media for the first time since snubbing his dad David's birthday bash.

The pair were no shows at any of David's 50th birthday celebrations last week, with The Mail revealing that Romeo's girlfriend Kim Turnbull has been made the 'scapegoat' in the feud.

Despite claims that Victoria and David were having 'sleepless nights' over the row, Nicola seemed unfazed by the drama as she took to Instagram to share a trio of glamorous snaps.

The actress posed in a plunging black waistcoat, with her brunette tresses pulled into a curled half-up, half-down style.

Brooklyn also returned to social media in the midst of growing tensions with his parents, appearing in a clip from Whole Foods' Beyond The Board podcast.

In the podcast, the budding chef spoke about the story behind his hot sauce Cloud23, saying that the idea for the sauce came from a late night drinking wine with Nicola.

Nicola Peltz and her husband Brooklyn Beckham have returned to social media for the first time since snubbing his dad David's birthday bash

The pair were no shows at any of David's 50th birthday celebrations last week, with The Mail revealing that Romeo's girlfriend Kim Turnbull has been made the 'scapegoat' in the feud

Brooklyn also returned to social media in the midst of growing tensions with his parents, appearing in a clip from Whole Foods' Beyond The Board podcast

He said: 'I was having a bottle of wine with my wife really late at night and she said: ''You like hot sauce, you like design. Why don't you make a hot sauce''.

'I didn't really think much about it and then I ordered a bunch of stuff and I watched a quick video on how to make a hot sauce.

'I then made the jalapeno one and I really liked it and I thought: ''I kind of want to try and do something with this''. I had so much fun doing it.'

It comes as sources revealed that Victoria has been having 'sleepless nights' over the family's feud with Brooklyn, with growing fears they won't be able to heal their rift.

The fashion designer, 51, and her husband David, 50, are said to have been left heartbroken at the distance that has grown between them and their eldest son.

The Beckham family have been at the centre of a feud that has pitted Brooklyn, 26, and his wife Nicola Peltz, 29, on one side, and the rest of the family on the other.

Things came to a head when Brooklyn and Nicola were no shows at any of David's 50th birthday celebrations, with The Mail revealing that Romeo's girlfriend Kim Turnbull has been made the 'scapegoat' in the feud.

Now, it has been claimed that Victoria and David are sadly 'near breaking point' over the ongoing feud and there are fears the family might not come back from it.

Despite claims that Victoria and David were having 'sleepless nights' over the row, Nicola seemed unfazed by the drama as she took to Instagram to share a trio of glamorous snaps

The actress posed in a plunging black waistcoat, with her brunette tresses pulled into a curled half-up, half-down style

Victoria has also reportedly been having 'sleepless nights' over the ongoing rift, which has been described as her 'worst nightmare'.

A source told The Sun: 'This is Victoria's worst nightmare. The thought of any of her children falling out gives her sleepless nights.

'It's been difficult with Brooklyn since he met Nicola, and there's no denying that there was a family fallout over their wedding.

'But Victoria and David have worked hard to get things back on track, so this is a real blow.'

MailOnline has contacted a representative for the Beckhams for comment.

It was claimed Brooklyn and Nicola pulled out of attending the Met Gala with the intention of attending David's birthday party, but were no shows at both events.

Brooklyn was reportedly planning to attend David's 50th birthday party, but felt too uncomfortable to come after he felt Nicola was being blamed for the rift with his family.

Claims that Brooklyn and Nicola were rebuffed when they asked David and Victoria to celebrate David's birthday privately were also said to be untrue.

Sources close to Nicola told US website TMZ they wanted 'to get together privately' to avoid Romeo's girlfriend Kim Turnbull as the couple are said to 'have a problem' with her.

Brooklyn missed out on David's early celebrations in Miami last month as well as parties in the Cotswolds, France and London this week.

Following the birthday party snub, it was revealed Brooklyn also declined an invitation by his father to join him and his brothers on a 'boys' fishing trip to celebrate his 50th.

The Mail revealed David invited Brooklyn on a short break six months ago when he began planning, yet his son failed to go despite arriving in the UK the day he went with Romeo and Cruz.

Sources have suggested that Brooklyn's decision was influenced by his American actress wife Nicola, 30.

'Brooklyn was asked to join them ages ago,' one claimed.

'Then he came to London in time but he didn't go. Once again David made the best of things and had a great time with Cruz and Romeo.'

David still offered an olive branch to his son as he shared snaps from the trip, as he captioned one of his posts: 'You were missed @brooklynbeckham.'

The Mail revealed Romeo's girlfriend Kim Turnbull is being made the 'scapegoat' in the feud between Brooklyn and David - with Nicola 'at the centre' of the rift.

Kim and Brooklyn were undeniably close for a brief period  as photographs of them together in 2016 show - but suggestions that they were ever an item are wide of the mark, according to well-informed sources who spoke to The Mail.

In fact, younger brother Cruz, 20, personally shut down the gossip recently when he responded to an Instagram post showing a picture of Romeo and Kim together.

In a now-deleted message, one user commented: 'It's appropriate to date your brother's ex too? Cool.'

Cruz replied: 'Brooklyn and Kim never dated.'

One friend told the Mail's Katie Hind at the weekend: 'This is nothing to do with Kim and is all about Nicola.

'All David and Victoria want is their son back  and they will be there to welcome him any time.'

Family friends claim Brooklyn's wife has a pattern of 'starting an argument' before family events and then preventing her husband from attending.

Some believe that friends of Nicola have been behind the briefings about Kim being the cause of Brooklyn's rift with his family, some of which went so far to claim that he had told them he refused to come to any event at which Kim was present.

Victoria has also reportedly been having 'sleepless nights' over the ongoing rift, which has been described as her 'worst nightmare' (pictured with Brooklyn in 2019)

David and Victoria's children Romeo, 22, Cruz, 20, and Harper, 13, joined them for a week of celebrations (pictured on Wednesday in the Costwolds), though Brooklyn was notably absent

A source close to the family told MailOnline: 'Brooklyn was close to Kim because she was dating Rocco and they all hung out in a tightknit friendship group. But that was years ago. Brooklyn and Kim were close, but there was never any romance.

'It seems Nicola doesn't like Brooklyn spending any time with the Beckhams full stop and is using his previous closeness to Kim and her getting in with the family as a reason to not be around them.

'She denies it, but Nicola has been controlling him since the wedding. The family - including the brothers - have had enough of it.

'This is the narrative that's been put out to other news outlets, that Romeo is dating his brother's ex-girlfriend - and that's really weird, so that's why they wouldn't want to be around the family when she is there.

'But none of this is true. And it's really upset Romeo and his parents because Kim is seemingly being used by Nicola as a reason to start the rift.

'Romeo is furious at the suggestion that he would bring an ex-girlfriend of Brooklyn into the family when there never was any romance.'
Coleen Rooney has shared her 'relief' as the Wagatha Christie showdown was 'finally' settled after Rebekah Vardy settled on a seven-figure sum.

Breaking her silence in a statement on Wednesday, Coleen, 39, insisted 'time and money should have been put to better use' in the scathing message to Rebekah.

The WAG, 42, agreed to pay 1,190,000 of Coleen's legal bill, plus was ordered to pay a further 212,266 in assessment costs, after sensationally losing their high-profile libel case.

This takes the total Rebekah must pay to at least 1,402,266.20. MailOnline understands she has already paid some of the bill, including 800,000 four years ago and 100,000 last year.

She wrote: 'The ruling yesterday in my favour finally brings this claim to an end, it's a relief and brings closure for my family and I.

'Throughout this long process, I am grateful that the judgements have consistently gone my way.

Coleen Rooney, 39, has shared her 'relief' as the Wagatha Christie showdown was 'finally' settled after Rebekah Vardy, 42, settled on a seven-figure sum

Breaking her silence in a statement on Wednesday, Coleen insisted 'time and money should have been put to better use' in the scathing message to Rebekah

The WAG agreed to pay 1,190,000 of Coleen's legal bill, plus was ordered to pay a further 212,266 in assessment costs, after sensationally losing their high-profile libel case

'However, as I have always maintained this claim did not need to be made or run for as long as it did.

'The time and money should have been put to better use.

'I want to thank my legal representatives, management, friends and family for their guidance and constant support.

'Thanks also to the public and many well wishers who have been in touch with such kind messages.

'This episode is not something I ever wanted in my life however I am thankful for the way my family and team have dealt with it.

'We look forward to moving on with our lives.'

Coleen must also pay Rebekah a total of 135,097.50 in costs under the terms of court orders from 2024, which will be set off against what Rebekah must pay.

A source close to Rebekah told MailOnline on Tuesday: 'It's a huge relief for Rebekah that this long legal battle is now coming to an end.

This takes the total Rebekah must pay to at least 1,402,266.20. MailOnline understands she has already paid some of the bill, including 800,000 four years ago and 100,000 last year

Rebekah was ordered to pay 90 percent of Coleen's (pictured) legal bills after she sensationally lost the libel case which accused her of leaking stories about Wayne Rooney's wife to the press

'She's looking forward to putting the whole ordeal well and truly behind her.

'Now shes just focusing on the future. And there are some big plans coming up for her now that she just wants to get cracking with.'

Coleen ran up a legal bill of more than 1.8 million while successfully defending herself against Rebekah's High Court claim in 2022.

After losing their High Court showdown, Rebekah was ordered to pay 90 percent of Coleen's legal costs.

In written submissions to a specialist costs court hearing on Tuesday, Rebekah's barrister, Juliet Wells, said Coleen's total legal bill of 1,833,906.89 'has now been settled at 1,190,000, being [approximately] 1,125,000 plus interest of [approximately] 65,000'.

The court heard that while Coleen was also asking for a further 315,000 in 'assessment costs', Costs Judge Mark Whalan ordered Rebekah to pay 212,266.20 of Coleen's assessment costs, inclusive of VAT but before interest, on top of the 1.19 million settlement.

While Mrs Wells previously called for the 'grossly disproportionate' assessment costs to be capped at 'no more than 100,000', Judge Whalan said the amount awarded was 'reasonable and proportionate'.

He added that while there had been 'extraordinary expenditure of costs' on both sides, he was 'generally happy' the outcome was a 'commercially satisfactory conclusion' for the pair.

Rebekah has made many attempts in the past to bring down the sum she is expected to pay for Coleen's legal costs which were set at 1,833,906.89 (Pictured: Rebekah and her husband Jamie Vardy)

The post that started it all: Coleen accused Rebekah's social media account of leaking stories

Coleen pictured with her husband Wayne Rooney outside the Royal Courts of Justice in May 2022

'I do mean it when I say that I hope that this is the end of a long and unhappy road,' he added.

Rebekah's lawyer previously argued Coleen's team had used a 'kitchen sink' approach when calculating the total and included 'over 120,000 of costs to which Coleen has no entitlement'.

It was also claimed the bill included costs for one of the WAG's team to stay at Nobu - a five star luxury hotel - and 'substantial dinner and drinks charges as well as mini bar charges'.

The lawyer said Coleen's 1,833,906.89 legal bill was over three times her 'agreed costs budget of 540,779.07'.

But Coleen's lawyer, Robin Dunne, had argued it was 'frankly outrageous' to accuse them of dishonesty.

Rebekah unsuccessfully sued the I'm A Celeb star in the High Court in 2022 after she was publicly accused of leaking stories about her to the press.

The catalyst for the famous Wagatha Christie case was a dramatic open letter written by Coleen and posted on social media in October 2019 in which she revealed she had turned detective to figure out who had been leaking the stories.

Coleen publicly claimed Rebekah's account was the source behind three newspaper stories featuring fake details she had posted on her private Instagram profile - her travelling to Mexico for a 'gender selection' procedure, her planning to return to TV and the basement flooding at her home.

Penning that she had a 'suspicion' of who it could be, Coleen told her millions of followers that 'to try and prove this' she 'came up with an idea'.

'I blocked everyone from viewing my Instagram stories except ONE account,' she wrote.

For the next five months, she uploaded 'a series of false stories' to see if 'they made their way' into the press.

'And you know what, they did!' she penned 'The story about gender selection in Mexico, the story about returning to TV and then the latest story about the basement flooding in my new house.'

She continued to build suspense, writing: 'It's been tough keeping it to myself and not making any comment at all, especially when the stories have been leaked, however I had to. Now I know for certain which account/individual it's come from.

A court artist sketch of Rebekah wiping away tears as she gave evidence at the Royal Courts Of Justice

Court artist sketch of Coleen and Wayne Rooney (left) and Rebekah Vardy (right) sitting near to each other in the front row at court

'I have saved and screenshotted all the original stories which clearly show just one person had viewed them.'

And then, she delivered her final iconic line: 'It's.......... Rebekah Vardy's account.'

What followed was a tearful appearance from Rebekah on ITV's Loose Women in February 2020 in which claimed the stress over the dispute had caused her to have anxiety attacks so severe she 'ended up in hospital three times'.

The emotional display was met by Coleen with a statement to say she did not want to 'engage in further public debate' on the matter.

Four months later, in June 2020, Rebekah began legal proceedings against Coleen for libel with her lawyers alleging she had 'suffered extreme distress, hurt, anxiety and embarrassment as a result of the publication of the post and the events which followed'.

At the first preliminary hearing in London's High Court in November the same year, Mr Justice Warby ruled that Coleen's famous letter 'clearly identified' Rebekah as being 'guilty of the serious and consistent breach of trust'.

He concluded the 'natural and ordinary' meaning of the posts was that Rebekah had 'regularly and frequently abused her status as a trusted follower of Mrs Rooney's personal Instagram account' by secretly informing the press of Coleen's 'private posts and stories'.

When the case returned to the courts in February 2022, a series of explosive messages between Rebekah and her agent Caroline Watt were revealed with Coleen's lawyers alleging they were about her.

At the first preliminary hearing in London's High Court, Mr Justice Warby ruled that Coleen's famous letter 'clearly identified' Rebekah (pictured) as being 'guilty of the serious and consistent breach of trust'

When the case returned to the courts in February 2022, a series of explosive messages between Rebekah and her agent Caroline Watt were revealed with lawyers for Coleen (pictured) alleging they were about her

Rebekah denied that one message calling someone a 'nasty b****' was in reference to Coleen.

When asked by defence lawyers to present Ms Watt's phone so they could further investigate the WhatsApp messages, they were told it had fallen into the North Sea when Ms Watt was on a boat during a holiday.

Coleen was denied permission to bring a High Court claim against Ms Watt for misuse of private information to be heard alongside the libel battle as it was brought too late.

Ms Watt was then dubbed not fit to give oral evidence, revoked permission for her witness statement to be used and withdrew her waiver which would have allowed journalists to say whether she was a source of the leaked stories.

Coleen's barrister then told the High Court Rebekah 'appears to accept' her agent was the source of the leaked stories and argued her new statement suggested this but Rebekah claimed she 'did not authorise or condone her'.

In May 2022, the women finally came face-to-face in court to give evidence as the Wagatha Christie trial began in the Royal Courts of Justice in London.

Coleen secured her victory the next month when Mrs Justice Steyn delivered her verdict, dismissing the claim made by Rebekah and finding Coleen had proved the meaning of her famous accusatory letter was 'substantially true'.

Whilst Coleen said she was 'pleased' the judge had ruled in her favour, Rebekah declared she was 'extremely sad and disappointed' at the decision.

MailOnline has reached out to representatives for Coleen Rooney for comment.
Molly-Mae Hague has confirmed her reunion with ex Tommy Fury, as she shared a gushing birthday tribute to him on Wednesday.

The couple split in August after five years together, but in recent months had sparked a sea of speculation that they'd rekindled their relationship.

And ahead of the release of the second part of her Prime Video docuseries, Molly-Mae took to Instagram Stories to share a snap of Tommy to mark his 26th birthday.

The snap showed the boxer and their daughter Bambi during a recent family trip to Dubai, a trip which the star previously called 'the best holiday of her life.'

She wrote: 'Happy Birthday to you. You make our little girls world light up.'

Molly-Mae's post also comes ahead of the release of the second half of her Prime Video docuseries on Friday.

Molly-Mae Hague has confirmed her reunion with ex Tommy Fury, as she shared a gushing birthday tribute to him on Wednesday

The couple split in August after five years together, but in recent months had sparked a sea of speculation that they'd rekindled their relationship

The trailer for the second part sees Molly-Mae confirm she and Tommy are back together, while admitting she lives in fear of their romance being 'destroyed'.

The former Love Island stars, split in August last year, amid Tommy's struggles with alcohol, which the boxer said led to him getting 'black-out drunk' most nights and neglecting his responsibilities as a father and partner.

However, while co-parenting their daughter Bambi, the pair gradually started dating again and even spent Valentine's Day together at luxury country house Estelle Manor in Oxfordshire.

In recent weeks, they even went on a family holiday together to Dubai where Molly-Mae pictured Tommy on her Instagram page for the first time since their breakup.

In a brand-new trailer for her Prime Video show, Molly shares her deepest fears over giving Tommy a second chance.

She said: 'Things are looking like they are heading in a good direction but by tomorrow could it all be destroyed again?'

And her family's concerns were expressed in the first-look clip with Molly's sister Zoe questioning: 'Have you actually addressed the problems?'

Elsewhere in the trailer, Molly was seen smiling while on FaceTime to Tommy during an influencer trip she took to Switzerland as the sportsman said he can't wait to see her face again.

In a brand-new trailer for her Prime Video show, Molly shares her deepest fears over giving Tommy a second chance

Fans first learned the couple were in the throes of getting back together after a video leaked of them sharing a passionate kiss on New Year's Eve.

And Molly's reaction to the world seeing the intimate footage was revealed in the documentary, as she buried her head in her hands as she screams: 'No, my God, what?' while her manager quizzed her on if they were together.

The reality star can also be seen attempting to cope with the stresses of having an enormous fanbase as she continues to manage fashion brand Maebe.

She says to camera: 'My whole career is in the hands of the people that follow me.'

Molly and Tommy met on ITV2 dating show Love Island in 2019, where they fell for each other in front of the nation.

They welcomed daughter Bambi in January 2023, before getting engaged just a few months later.

But fans were shocked when Molly announced on Instagram last August that she and Tommy had split up after five years, with many suspecting he had been unfaithful.

In a statement posted to her 8.5million Instagram followers, Molly confirmed the breakup, saying: 'I never imagined our story would end, especially not this way.'

Tommy denied continued speculation about him cheating during a magazine interview, insisting any reports about him being with other women were 'complete and utter b*****ks.'

The boxer, who's the half-brother of heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, said the reason he and Molly ended their romance was down to his excessive drinking.

He said: 'People go through different things in life. I'm 25 years old. I went through a lot and my breakup was in front of the whole world...

'Cheating was never a thing. You can ask Molly this yourself. It was the drink, and the drink is not a good thing.'
Jim Carrey is once again struggling to unload his lavish Los Angeles mansion after a recent deal fell through.

The Truman Show star, 63, first listed the sprawling Brentwood estate in February 2023 for $28.9 million  nearly three decades after scooping it up for $3.8 million in 1994.

A buyer reportedly came forward in December, agreeing to pay $19.8 million, slashing $10 million off the original asking price.

Despite the drop, Carrey still stood to make a hefty profit  until the sale collapsed.

Now, the five-bedroom, nine-bathroom spread is back on the market for $18.8 million after another $1 million price cut in May, per property records.

The fresh discount comes on the heels of Carrey admitting his return to the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise wasnt about passion  it was about the paycheck.

Jim Carrey is once again struggling to unload his lavish Los Angeles mansion after a recent deal fell through

The Truman Show star, 63, first listed the sprawling Brentwood estate in February 2023 for $28.9 million  nearly three decades after scooping it up for $3.8 million in 1994

The comedian, who once commanded $20 million per film and boasted an estimated $300 million net worth during his blockbuster heyday (Liar Liar, The Truman Show, Bruce Almighty), revealed that even Hollywood royalty has bills to pay.

I came back to this universe cause, first of all, I get to play a genius, which is a bit of a stretch, and its just... its just... I bought a lot of stuff and I need the money, frankly, he quipped at Sonic the Hedgehog 3s London premiere in December.

But he insisted it wasn't entirely about the paycheck, as he was quick to add, 'At the same time, it had heart, and that's why I did it the first time. 'There was something beautiful about the heart of the piece.'

Of course, he couldnt resist throwing in his signature humor, concluding, 'I hope it will bring families together and cure several diseases.'

When he first listed his home for sale in February, he told The New York Post that he was ready for 'changes' in his life.

'For three decades it's been a sanctuary for me, but I don't spend a lot of time there now and I want someone else to enjoy it like I have,' he told the outlet in a statement.

'Cha cha cha cha ... Changes!' he added as he referenced the iconic David Bowie song.

He bought it while he shot to fame starring in the hit movie Ace Venture: Pet Detective.

While the five-bedroom, nine-bathroom retreat didnt fetch its initial number, Carrey still walked away with a hefty profit, having scooped up the property for just $3.8 million back in 1994

The sale couldnt have come at a better time , as the actor recently confessed his return to the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise wasnt exactly fueled by passion

The actor also owns a property in Maui, confirming in 2017 that he is a resident of the island after buying a home near the waterfront in Makena.

Some of his art is even displayed in the local Wyland Gallery.

His luxury car collection is rumored to have taken a bite out of his fortune as well.

The comedian has owned several Mercedes, a Porshe Panamera and a Tesla, according to Supercarblondie.

Hes also shared stories of his travels to various corners of the globe, from humble trips to Buffalo, NY, to lavish getaways in London and awe-inspiring visits to Machu Picchu, Peru.

Carreys journey from humble beginnings to Hollywood icon began in the streets of Toronto, where he grew up.

After leaving school in 1978 to help support his family, Carrey spent two years working as a janitor in a factoryfar from the spotlight, but not for long.

By age 15, he was already performing stand-up comedy in local Toronto clubs, and by 1979, he was earning a living as a comedian.

At 19, Carrey took a leap of faith and moved to Hollywood, where he quickly immersed himself in both television and film. In 2004, he solidified his place in both countries by obtaining dual U.S. and Canadian citizenship.

Carrey enjoyed a legendary run with hits like Liar Liar, The Truman Show, How the Grinch Stole Christmas , and Bruce Almighty, but his star began to dim in the late 2000s

In 1983, Carrey made his mark on Canadian television with a role in IntroducingJanet.

The following year, he stepped onto the big screen in his feature film debut, Finders Keepers, before landing a leading role in Once Bitten (1985).

But it was Earth Girls Are Easy (1988) that saw Carrey take on the quirky role of Wiploc, an intergalactic alien, cementing his place in the world of eccentric comedy.

Carreys first TV special, Jim Carrey: Unnatural Act (1991), earned rave reviews and opened the door to his breakout role on the sketch comedy series In Living Color, where his zany, larger-than-life persona became a household name.

Interestingly, in 1985, Carrey made a daring and prescient decision: he wrote himself a check for $10 million for 'acting services rendered,' dated it ten years into the future, and kept it in his wallet as a symbol of his ambition.

Remarkably, in November 1995, Carrey learned that he had been cast in Dumb and Dumber for exactly $10 million.

In 2022, he announced his plans to retire from acting once and for all, claiming that Sonic the Hedgehog 2 would be his final film.

Carrey commanded a cool $20 million for films like The Cable Guy in 1996

'It depends, if the angels bring some sort of script that's written in gold ink that says to me that it's gonna be really important for people to see, I might continue down the road, but I'm taking a break,' he said at the time.

At the Sonic 3 premiere, an interviewer from the Associated Press said to him: 'You said in a past interview that you'd come back if you got a script written in gold ink written by angels...?'

As Carrey began to laugh he replied saying: 'That might've been hyperbole, yeah.'

The Sonic series has been one of the most lucrative projects of his career, with the first two films grossing a combined $725m (568m) worldwide.

Meanwhile, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 grossed $492.16 million worldwide.
Ford is hiking prices on three of its Mexico-produced models effective May 2.

The iconic automaker is one of the first major car brands to adjust sticker prices following US President Donald Trump's 25 percent auto tariffs.

Prices on the Mustang Mach-E electric SUV, Maverick pickup, and Bronco Sport will increase by as much as $2,000 on some models, according to a notice sent to dealers reviewed by Reuters.

The move comes days after the automaker announced it expects to pay $2.5 billion in tariffs to the federal government for foreign parts for their domestic cars.

Consumer advocates have warned tariffs will increase new vehicle and insurance costs, but until now car companies have been vague about the impact on price.

Now, Ford's dealership message and pricing offers one of the clearest glimpses yet at how much of that burden could fall on buyers.

The company says it plans to offset around $1 billion of the tariff costs through accounting changes and adjustments to vehicle pricing.

Spread across the 2.08 million vehicles Ford sold in the US last year, DailyMail.com calculates buyers can expect around $480 tacked onto the price of US-built SUVs and trucks.

Ford estimates that it will spend $2.5 billion on tariffs annually - it told some dealerships that three car models will get more expensive

That ballpark figure will vary depending depending on the model, its supply chain, and further policy changes from the White House.

But the message is clear: some of the added cost is expected to land on buyers, even for some of the most American-made cars on the planet.

Ford says the remaining $1.5 billion in tariffs will be absorbed by the company itself, cutting into profits.

The automaker pulled its 2025 financial guidance this week, citing policy uncertainty and the risk of supply chain disruptions.

'There's a number of things that we are working through,' Ford's CFO, Sherry House, said during the earnings call, noting potential impacts from both customer behavior and regulatory shifts.

'It's the policy issues that we had alluded to  the clarification of how some of these are landing, as well as some uncertainty associated with tax and emission policy.'

Despite the high tariff price, Ford appears to bein a stronger position than its competitors.

More than 80 percent of its US sales are built in plants across Michigan, Missouri, Kentucky, and Ohio.

Ford's CEO, Jim Farley, said the company is reliant on parts suppliers in other countries because the US doesn't make enough carpets and fasteners for the company's assembly lines

The Blue Oval told dealerships cars like the Bronco Sport, which is made in Mexico, will get more expensive

The Mach-E, one of the cheapest EVs in the US market, is also expected to increase in price

The US manufacturing keeps Ford's exposure to vehicle import tariffs lower than rivals like General Motors, which recently said it expects to face $4 billion to $5 billion in tariff-related costs.

Ford has highlighted its American production advantage with a massive sales event: it's offering employee pricing to all US consumers until July 4.

Still, Ford CEO Jim Farley has acknowledged the companys dependence on foreign parts. In a recent interview, he pointed out the limited availability of components like fasteners and carpeting in the US.

Ford purchases the parts from other manufacturers. They're individually subject to 25 percent tariffs under the current tax regime.

Ford's foreign parts struggles highlight how automakers are stillinterpreting the broader strategy behind the tariffs.

Trump has alternated between using them as leverage in trade negotiations and positioning them as a way to spur more domestic manufacturing.

At the same time, he has criticized federal incentives for electric vehicle adoption  raising questions about what tools, if any, the government plans to use to support the industry.

Many automakers have invested billions of dollars in US EV battery capacity, as the global automotive landscape looks unquestionably electric with massive spikes in EV adoption in high-growth China and India.

But Trump's policies have presented a fundamental challenge for all vehicle sellers.

Executives told DailyMail.com that these uncertainties have left multiple manufacturers in the dark: they don't know what to ask customers to pay for their cars.
Joann is closing for good after 82 years  and everything must go.

The once-popular craft retailer confirmed it will shutter all remaining stores in the coming weeks.

It will wrap up its nationwide going-out-of-business sales that offer shoppers up to 90 percent off.

Joann's demise has come fast. It filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in January in the hope of restructuring and keeping the business afloat.

But just a month later bosses said would Joann would close all its 800 stores. After shutting 255 in April, the rest will go this month.

Until 2018, it was known as Jo-Ann Stores but rebranded as 'Joann' to move beyond fabrics to embrace a wider range of crafts.

Fans of Joann were furious to learn the chain canceled gift cards on February 28.

Joann is the latest retailer to face challenges after experiencing a pandemic-era sales boom. With Americans now returning to work, the surge in home crafting has significantly declined.

The final remaining Joann stores will shutter by the end of the month after announcing its plans to go out of business

Joann previously planned to close 'approximately 500' locations before announcing its intentions to shutter all stores

Joann's closures come after a widespread 'retail apocalypse' last year saw major companies file for bankruptcy and brick-and-mortar stores close in their droves.

Up until mid-December, US retailers have shut 7,300 stores - up nearly 60 percent from 2023.

The most recent big retail bankruptcy was Container Store, which filed for Chapter 11 protection on December 22. There has been no news yet on its

The store - known for its home organizational goods, including closet organizers and storage bins - has been around for 46 years.

Despite receiving a boost from Marie Kondo's hit Netflix show 'Tidying Up' during the Covid-19 pandemic, the chain has been weighed down by mounting losses in recent years.

Joann specialized in fabrics and arts and crafts supplies, and its major competitors included Michaels and Hobby Lobby.

It first filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in March last year after pandemic-era sales growth faded, leaving the retailer with $1.2 billion in debt.

It emerged from bankruptcy the next month - with 815 stores across 49 states - after creditors agreed to cancel $505 million in debt in exchange for ownership of the company.

Joann products are currently on sale from anywhere between 10 and 75 percent off at all locations

Unfortunately, it was not enough for the chain to make a financial comeback.

The retailer had $615.7 million in debt before its second filing and later sold all its assets to the GA Group and various lenders.

Now that Joann has bitten the dust, so will the jobs of nearly 20,000 employees.

Burlington is using Joann's unfortunate demise as an opportunity for store expansion.

The department store retailer confirmed it would begin transitioning 45 Joann locations into Burlington stores in May and June.

Some locations will be in California, Texas, and Joann's home state of Ohio.

Despite Joann's failure, Michaels is continuing its reign of being the North America's largest provider of arts and crafts and currently operates over 1,200 stores.

Hobby Lobby is thriving after opening several stores this year, one being in Arizona last week.

As of now, Michaels and Hobby Lobby have never filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.

DailyMail.com has reached out to Joann and the GA Group for comment about the closures.
Krispy Kreme fans can snag a free donut today and take a quick break from stress over REAL IDs.

The popular donut chain is offering guests a free original glazed donut in most shops and via drive-thru today.

The offer coincides with the REAL ID deadline, in which airports will begin requiring travelers to have one if they wish to fly.

DMVs have been overloaded with long lines, which Krispy Kreme understands can be a nuisance.

'The DMV can be stressful enough in normal times, but we know May 7 is going to be "next level" stress for many Americans trying to get their REAL ID,' said chief growth officer Dave Skena.

Luckily for customers, Krispy Kreme does not require anyone to bring in a REAL ID to obtain the free treat.

Each customer is limited to one free donut, but this has not stopped social media users from being excited about the one-day-only deal.

Krispy Kreme is offering its customers free original glazed donuts to relieving their REAL ID stress today

Customers can receive the donuts at participating locations in-store or at the drive-thru

'Real ID is what got me I knew I liked Krispy Kreme,' a fan wrote on Krispy Kreme's Instagram post.

'The little sweet treat we needed in a time like this,' another person wrote.

Several other commenters claimed today was also their birthdays, and told horror stories on what they went through to obtain their REAL IDs.

Besides free donuts, Krispy Kreme is offering its guests new mini donuts to celebrate Mother's Day.

The chain is offering four kinds of limited-time mini goodies: Strawberry Sunshine, Chocolate Chip Cookie Delight, Chocolate Iced Yellow Heart, and Sparkly Vanilla Sunset.

Skena described the mini donuts as a 'fresh and sweet way to brighten the day for moms and other mother figures.'

The items made their debut at participating stores yesterday and will be available to purchase until May 11.

Donut fans who do not live near a Krispy Kreme can grab a free glazed donut with a coffee purchase at participating McDonald's restaurants now.
A beloved Chicago chain has finally delivered on something fans have been craving for years: breakfast.

Five of its restaurants across Illinois quietly debuted a full morning menu this week, offering classic items with a local twist  including collaborations with two iconic Windy City brands, Stan's Donuts and Metropolis Coffee.

Served daily from 6.30 to 10.30am all summer long, the breakfast rollout includes items like polish sausage, egg & cheese sandwiches, loaded scrambles, and even a chocolate cake donut.

The move marks a major shift for Portillos, the fast-casual favorite known for its Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and signature chocolate cake.

Its the first breakfast menu in the companys 62-year history.

'Chicago has been asking for Portillo's breakfast for years, and we're thrilled to deliver our unique take on morning classics,' Garrett Kern, vice president of strategy and culinary, told DailyMail.com.

Portillo's has under 100 locations, but experts say it consistently delivers better value compared to much larger rivals like McDonalds and Chipotle.

If the breakfast test performs well, Portillos plans to expand it to more locationsand potentially make it permanent.

Portillo's is now offering a breakfast menu for the first time in operating history

The breakfast menu is currently being tested at five restaurants in Illinois

The pilot breakfast menu is available now at Portillo's locations in Chicago, Elmhurst, Tinley Park, Shorewood, and Niles.

Customers can grab a $7.99 meal deal that includes a breakfast sandwich, small coffee, and hash brown bites.

Bosses say some of the standout items include the Chocolate Cake Iced Coffee and scrambles topped with cheese sauce, eggs, hash browns, and bacon.

The chain's popular Italian Beef Sandwich will also be available during breakfast hours.

Portillo's new menu has already received praise from customers who lined up to place a breakfast order today.

'While still in its first few weeks, early feedback has been positive,' CEO Michael Osanloo told DailyMail.com.

'Guests are excited about freshly scrambled eggs, made-to-order breakfast sandwiches, and our rich chocolate cake doughnut  inspired, of course, by our famous chocolate cake.'

Portillo's will continue to keep an eye on customer responses for the entire summer.

If the menu is successful, Portillo's plans to expand it to other locations nationwide

Portillo's is famous for serving foods like Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches

An employee prepares a hot dog at a Portillo's restaurant in Chicago, Illinois, US, on Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2022

Portillo's is not the only restaurant chain to be rolling out new tests at select locations.

McDonald's made headlines after testing its McVeggie burgers select locations in Canada this year.

The test ended in April and there are no plans for the plant-based item to be tested in the US.

Chipotle completed a test run of its honey chicken, which was available at select locations in California and Tennessee last year.

Unlike McDonald's, Chipotle's honey chicken was a smashing success and it has since become a limited time offering nationwide.

Dutch Bros. is currently testing food items with the hopes of helping attract more visitors during breakfast hours.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday called an urgent meeting of chief ministers, chief secretaries and DGPs of states having borders with Pakistan and Nepal.

The meeting has been called in the wake of the strikes carried out by the Indian armed forces on terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir as a retaliatory action against the Pahalgam terror attack, sources said.

They said the meeting, to be held through video conferencing, will be attended by chief ministers, chief secretaries and Director General of Police of Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim and West Bengal, besides Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh.

The home minister has already directed chiefs of all Central Armed Police Forces to call back their personnel who are on leave, they said.

According to sources, Shah also reviewed the internal security situation in the country and asked the top security officials to be on alert and keep strict vigil.

The home minister termed aOperation Sindoora as Bharatas response to the brutal killings of innocent people in Pahalgam. He also said the Modi government is resolved to give a befitting response to any attack on India and its people and Bharat remains firmly committed to eradicating terrorism from its roots.

The Indian strike was carried out in response to the April 22 terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmiras Pahalgam in which 26 people were killed.
Pensionarii, loviti de noul CASS! Pana la 1.200 de lei retinuti lunar. Cine sunt cei scutiti de plata - Ministrul Manole vine cu explicatii
Recent developments indicate a significant enhancement of Cubas air defense network, as the nation undertakes the modernization of its longstanding S-125 Pechora missile systems. This initiative, reportedly completed with substantial technical assistance from Belarus, not only aims to extend the operational life of these Soviet-era weapons but also signals a strengthening of military cooperation between Havana and Minsk, with potential ripple effects involving Russia and strategic considerations for the United States in the region.

Get alerts:

Mobility and Modernization: The Pechora-2BM Emerges

A key aspect of the upgrade, as reported in early May 2025, involves adapting the S-125 surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems for mobile warfare by mounting them onto T-55 tank chassis. This transformation drastically improves the systems ability to be rapidly deployed and repositioned, thereby enhancing its survivability against potential counter-strikes.

The Belarusian defense firm ALEVKURP is credited with overseeing the modernization, which elevates the legacy S-125 to the Pechora-2BM standard. This advanced variant benefits from a comprehensive overhaul of its electronic systems, leading to improved radar guidance capabilities, more effective target tracking, and an extended service life for the missiles themselves. Notably, factory tests have reportedly validated these improvements, with multiple missiles successfully engaging their intended targets. Beyond its primary anti-aircraft role, the Pechora-2BM is now capable of engaging targets on land and at sea, as well as fixed-coordinate objectives, significantly broadening its tactical utility for the Cuban Revolutionary Armed Forces, which are believed to operate a substantial number of S-125 launchers.

A Legacy System with Lingering Lethality

The S-125 Pechora, known by its NATO reporting name SA-3 Goa, dates back to the late 1950s. It was initially conceived to counter low-altitude, maneuverable aerial threats, working in conjunction with higher-altitude systems like the S-25 and S-75. Its design, featuring a two-stage missile and semi-active radar homing, offered enhanced agility and a degree of resistance to early electronic countermeasures.

Despite its age, the S-125 has remained in service across numerous countries due to its proven reliability, cost-effectiveness, and adaptability through various upgrade programs. The system has a documented combat history, having been deployed in conflicts such as the Yom Kippur War and the Iran-Iraq War. Perhaps its most notable achievement came in 1999 during the conflict in Yugoslavia, where a Serbian-operated S-125 battery successfully downed a U.S. F-117 Nighthawk stealth aircraft, a stark reminder of the systems enduring potential even against technologically advanced adversaries. While the Pechora-2BM upgrade offers enhanced jamming resistance and effectiveness, it is acknowledged that the system still trails more contemporary air defense platforms in terms of engagement range, overall mobility, and reaction times, and remains susceptible to advanced stealth technologies and precision weaponry.

Deepening Alliances: Havana, Minsk, and Moscow

The S-125 modernization project is not an isolated event but rather part of a broader pattern of intensifying military collaboration between Cuba and Belarus. In January 2024, the defense ministers of both nations, Alvaro Lopez Miera of Cuba and Viktor Jrenin of Belarus, formalized this growing relationship by signing a defense cooperation agreement. While the specific contents of this pact have not been publicly disclosed, it is widely interpreted as reflecting a shared political outlook and a mutual desire to assert sovereignty in the face of external pressures.

This bilateral cooperation reportedly extends to Belarusian commitments to train Cuban military personnel and potentially supply more advanced weaponry. Among the systems mentioned is the Polonez multiple-launch rocket system, a formidable platform capable of striking targets up to 300 kilometers away. These developments unfold against a backdrop of reports suggesting Cuban nationals have participated in the conflict in Ukraine under Russian command, and public affirmations from Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov regarding the military ties between Russia and Cuba. This emerging Havana-Minsk-Moscow axis is viewed by some observers as a strategic realignment with echoes of Cold War alignments, raising new security considerations for Washington.

Contrasting Paths to Modernization: Cuba and Vietnam

Cubas approach to updating its S-125 arsenal through Belarusian assistance offers a contrast to how other nations have handled similar legacy systems. Vietnam, for instance, has also pursued modernization of its S-125 fleet, resulting in the S-125VT variant. However, as reported by Army Recognition in 2024, Vietnams efforts, centered at the A31 military plant in Hanoi, have emphasized domestic innovation and industrial self-reliance, with local companies like Viettel developing key electronic components. Vietnams strategy integrates these upgraded systems into a more diverse and layered air defense architecture, which includes more modern platforms such as the S-300. This highlights a different philosophy, prioritizing indigenous capabilities over reliance on external partners.

Strategic Repercussions in the Americas

The Belarusian-supported upgrade of Cubas S-125 Pechora missiles represents a notable step in bolstering Havanas defensive posture. It effectively extends the lifespan and enhances the capabilities of venerable Soviet-era military hardware. More than a mere technical update, this initiative underscores Cubas deepening military and political alignment with nations within Moscows sphere of influence. In an evolving global security landscape, even older, modernized weapon systems like the Pechora can carry significant strategic weight, particularly when they are part of emerging geopolitical alliances that may seek to challenge established spheres of influence close to the United States.
The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council has warmly welcomed funding announced today for a scoping report to explore the further development of the John Hume archive, currently on loan to the Tower Museum from the Hume family.

The team at the Museum received confirmation that the application to the Archives Revealed Scoping Grant programme was successful and work can now begin on the project, titled Unlocking The John Hume Archive Collection. The programme is funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Pilgrim Trust, the Wolfson Foundation and The National Archives.

The Tower Museum team have extensive experience working with archive and museum collections and have been carrying out the professional archive work to ensure the collection can become accessible to the public in the longer term and remain in the city for that process and beyond. A Scoping Report for this collection will help assess potential timelines to develop the collection and integrate the archive into wider engagement plans.

John Humes significant political and personal archive dates between the 1960s-2000s, consisting of documents created and received throughout his time as a political representative during one of the most significant historic eras in Northern Ireland. The collection includes references to the Civil Rights campaign, the Troubles, international affairs and British and Irish relations.

The documents include draft and final speeches, policy documents, publications, photographs, and ephemera collected at various events. The collection also captures John Humes roles and responsibilities throughout his career and is recognised as having immense value for a range of audiences.

READ NEXT: Derry's 'Dog Ears' nominated for four Irish Animation Awards for 'Puffin Rock and the New Friends'

Welcoming the news, Mayor Lilian Seenoi Barr, said the collection would be of huge interest to visitors and a wonderful legacy for the people of the city. I want to congratulate the Tower Museum Team on this announcement, which has the potential to develop a fascinating and internationally significant historic archive which will draw people to the city.

John Humes integral role in the Peace Process and his skill both as a local representative and a major driver of social change are documented in this archive and I know both the Hume family and the people of Derry and Strabane will be delighted to see work commence on exploring a comprehensive and fitting tribute to John Hume and his work.

Head of Culture with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Aeidin McCarter, explained more about the project: The collection was deposited in 2024 in recognition of the archive experience and expertise of our team and the current successful display linked to John Humes Peace Prize Collection in the Guildhall.

"Conversations have been ongoing with the Hume Family and Ulster University other partners to develop plans to make the archive more widely accessible. We will now have the opportunity to look at the archive more closely and explore opportunities that will allow visitors, local and international, to learn more about the role John Hume played in the history of this very unique city.

Welcoming the news, the Hume family said: We congratulate the Tower Museum team on this announcement and thank them for their hard work and dedication.

"Our father was passionate about the study of history and specifically the history of Derry. We are delighted that work is continuing on his archive, and very much hope that it can contribute to both understanding our past and help provide lessons for future generations.
A 61-year-old County Donegal woman, who was once the recipient of a civic award in recognition of her cross-community work in Derry, has pleaded guilty at the city's Crown Court to a series of financial offences involving the charity totalling 862,574.

At her re-arraignment before Judge Neil Rafferty KC, Wendy Macbean from Railway Park in St. Johnston, Lifford admitted eight charges she'd originally denied.

Seventeen other similar charges remain on the bill of indictment and are to the subject of discussions between the prosecution and her defence team.

The defendant pleaded guilty to four charges of dishonestly making a false representation on July 23, 2018, that the Foyle Youth And Community Association (F.Y.A.C.A.) had received donations totalling 840,899 between April 2018 and March 2019.

She also pleaded guilty to four charges of transferring a total of 21,675 from an account in the name of the F.Y.A.C.A. to an account in her own name in July, August and September of 2018.

Defence barrister Seamus McNeill S.C. described Macbean's guilty pleas as "unequivocal".

Judge Rafferty listed the case for a standby trial on May 19 with a review date on May 14 to allow for discussions to take place between the defence and prosecution in relation the the remaining seventeen charges.
It is becoming increasingly difficult for the Stormont Executive to mitigate decisions being made at Westminster, Northern Irelands Finance Minister has said.

John ODowd said decisions, such as the recent hike in employers National Insurance contributions, are having a significant impact in the region.

Appearing before the Assembly Finance Committee, he said the Ulster Universitys Cost of Doing Business Review this week gave a timely insight into the challenges faced by businesses in Northern Ireland and said he has forwarded a copy to the Chief Secretary of the Treasury.

Decisions that are being made in Westminster are having significant impacts here and I am confident that when these decisions are being made in Whitehall departments, theyre not taking into account the needs of the local businesses and communities here, he told MLAs.

It is becoming increasingly difficult, if not impossible, for the Executive to mitigate against the decisions that are being made at Westminster.

Previously the Executive has intervened on some decisions, including mitigating cuts to some benefits.

But Mr ODowd said decades of underfunding and new decisions that are being made are putting more and more pressure on Executive budgets, and suggested further Executive financial assistance may not be plausible.

Mr ODowd earlier reiterated to MLAs that it is essential that the Executive is funded fairly and sustainably to deliver public services.

He hailed an independent assessment of need in Northern Ireland being undertaken by Professor Gerald Holtham, and said he hopes to have a final draft of that report next week.

This work is close to being finalised in the coming days and I will of course share with the committee at the appropriate juncture, he said.

I have already engaged with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury in respect of this and will be immediately engaging further on receipt of the report.

He also said that work has started on multi-year budgets for Northern Ireland, which he said have the potential to be a game changer and enable departments to plan on a longer-term strategic basis.

But he warned the benefits will only be realised if the Westminster Government use the Spending Review as an as opportunity to invest in public services.

I have made this clear in my meetings with the British Government, he added.

Finance Committee chair Matthew OToole challenged Mr ODowd during the meeting to take action over the findings of the Cost of Doing Business Review report.

Speaking afterwards, Mr OToole questioned why no action has been taken beyond forwarding the report to the Treasury.

The minister made much of this study but its clear there will be no action from the Executive other than forwarding this document to the Treasury, he said.

This is preposterous given the heavy press and expectations created by this study.

We are all aware of the huge pressures facing businesses across Northern Ireland. From the recent rise in employers national insurance contributions to increasing rent, rates and bills many business owners are contemplating a difficult future, while others have already made the decision to close their doors, leaving staff out of a job.

The UK Government does need to do more to support this place financially  we all agree on that. However, it is galling to see the same excuses trotted out time after time for Executive inaction.

The Minister refuses to act to support businesses, the same way he wont look at fiscal devolution or funding and reforming Northern Ireland Water  with disastrous consequences for the public.
The pixelation of the faces of two suspects in an appeal around the attempted murder of a man in Belfast earlier this year has been queried.

Sean OReilly, 49, survived after being shot twice while he sat inside his taxi in the west of the city on February 23.

Earlier this week, police issued CCTV images of two men they said they believe were involved in the case as part of an appeal.

Police criticised for pixelating the face of a suspected gunman. Peter Corrigan said; We have serious concerns around the investigation into our clients attempted murder, This is just the latest unusual occurrence in this investigation. https://t.co/DIWNtu4tYp  Phoenix Law Belfast (@PhoenixLawHR) May 7, 2025

However Mr OReilly has questioned why the images were pixelated, adding that it seemed extremely counter-productive to request help in identifying the suspects while also obscuring their image.

His solicitor, Peter Corrigan of Phoenix Law, said they have serious concerns around the investigation.

This is just the latest unusual occurrence in this investigation, he said.

We see no good reason why the PSNI would ask for help in identifying suspects and at the same time take steps to pixelate the faces of the suspects.

One has to question the motive behind this and who the PSNI are seeking to protect.

We will now add this to a long list of complaints already made to the Police Ombudsman in relation to the handling of the case.

Were renewing our appeal for information on the attempted murder of a 49-year-old man in the Bell Steel Manor area of west Belfast on Sunday, 23rd February. Today, we are releasing still images of two suspects. Full details: https://t.co/4XRoaekmJK pic.twitter.com/C7H3eGkVcp  Police West Belfast (@PSNIBelfastW) May 6, 2025

Responding, a PSNI spokesperson said: Detectives released still images of the two suspects with the aim of encouraging anyone with information, or footage, to come forward.

In one of the images, the face of one suspect has been pixelated. This has been purposefully applied in order to prevent potential misidentification or retribution.

Instead, it is hoped that both images, backed by the reward from Crimestoppers, will encourage anyone with information to get in touch using the appropriate channels.

Detectives have made a particular ask, and would reiterate their appeal, to anyone with CCTV to check for similar images that may have been captured from the morning of Sunday 23 February.

Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives on 101.
Save my User ID and Password

Some subscribers prefer to save their log-in information so they do not have to enter their User ID and Password each time they visit the site. To activate this function, check the 'Save my User ID and Password' box in the log-in section. This will save the password on the computer you're using to access the site.

Note: If you choose to use the log-out feature, you will lose your saved information. This means you will be required to log-in the next time you visit our site.
Just 14 out of 56 new cancer treatments that have been licensed since 2020 are unavailable in Ireland, according to the Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA).

This puts Ireland as having the lowest availability for new cancer treatments in Western Europe behind countries such as Spain, Portugal, France and Italy, among others.

The IPHA has cited the findings from a study for the European pharmaceutical body EFPIA which shows Irish patients wait considerably longer for access to life-enhancing new treatments and medicines compared to their peers across most of Europe.

The survey of 36 countries in Europe covered the years from 2020 to 2023 analysing over 170 new and innovative cancer medicines that were authorised for use by the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

Irish cancer patients face long waiting times of almost 2 years to access new medication that has been authorised by the EMA.

READ NEXT: 'I could lie and tell you a shark got me'- Ex-army Irish man on life after losing a leg

IPHA Chief Executive Oliver O'Conner has said these wait times are 55 days longer than last year and above the EU average of 586 days.

He went on to say that new framework is needed which could reform the reimbursement system to deliver the new medicines faster, the current framework is due to expire this September.

The United Cancer Advocates Network (UCAN) have said that many Irish patients are affected by the lack of access are might not even be aware of the new life-saving medicines available to them.

The UCAN is calling for an investigation into the early access schemes and a full review of the drugs reimbursement process with a more co-ordinated approach at European level.
Gerry Adams said he had been legally advised he would not get any sort of a fair hearing by challenging several claims that he had been a member of the IRA in court, during a libel trial against the BBC.

The 76-year-old said he is suing the BBC over allegations in a broadcast which sets aside the huge work that was done by him on the peace process and to persuade the IRA to leave the stage.

The former Sinn Fein leader said he was irritated by allegations he had been a member of the IRA Army Council but that he had previously been advised not to pursue such claims.

However, he said he was suing the BBC over a 2016 broadcast because it had contained a grievous smear that he takes seriously.

Mr Adams gave evidence for a sixth day as part of his defamation case against the BBC at the High Court in Dublin.

He claims a BBC Spotlight programme, and an accompanying online story, defamed him by alleging he sanctioned the killing of the former Sinn Fein official Denis Donaldson.

Mr Donaldson, who had worked for Sinn Fein, was shot dead in Donegal in 2006, months after admitting his role as a police and MI5 agent for 20 years.

Mr Adams denies any involvement.

In 2009, the Real IRA admitted killing Mr Donaldson.

The Spotlight programme was broadcast in September 2016.

The trial opened last week with barrister for Mr Adams, Tom Hogan SC, saying the former Sinn Fein presidents reputation as a peacemaker had suffered an unjustified attack because of the broadcast of the BBC programme.

On Wednesday, Mr Adams continued taking questions from the barrister for the BBC, Paul Gallagher SC.

In front of the jury, Mr Gallagher read extracts from books and a series of newspaper articles which featured politicians including former taoisigh Bertie Ahern and Enda Kenny, as well as SDLP founder John Hume and ex-UUP leader David Trimble, expressing surprise that Mr Adams was not acknowledging he was a member of the IRA.

Mr Adams said he did tens of thousands of interviews and could not recall every single one.

He repeatedly said it was not for him to comment on the journalistic content of the extracts, also noting that it was open for Mr Gallagher to call Mr Ahern to explain his comments to the court.

The former Sinn Fein leader was also questioned on matters relating to a number of issues, including the partys move to end abstentionism from the Oireachtas, Stormontgate and the killing of prison officer Brian Stack.

On the subject of ending abstentionism, Mr Adams said he had never purported to speak for the IRA ever.

He said whatever the IRA was going to do on that topic, he and others had come to the considered position that it was the right policy.

Asked by judge Alexander Owens if all members of the IRA would be members of Sinn Fein, Mr Adams said it was not the case and that not all members of Sinn Fein would necessarily support the IRA.

While stating he was not able to specifically remember individual articles that were raised by Mr Gallagher, Mr Adams acknowledged that claims about him being a member of the Army Council of the IRA had been raised in public.

He said he was doing this to save the court time as Mr Gallagher was repeating questions time and time and time again.

He further accused Mr Gallagher of trying to persuade the jury that he did not have a reputation or that his reputation was useless.

He said the BBCs lawyer was engaging in a smothering saturation of the jury with obscure quotes dating back 30-40 years.

Mr Adams said he brought allegations to his legal team as a matter of routine and added that he had repeatedly received legal advice that he would not get any sort of a fair hearing to challenge various claims made about him in the press.

However, he said he had taken action on a number of occasions by writing to editors or the Press Council which had resulted in retractions or apologies.

In the case of the action against the BBC, he added: That shows how seriously I take this allegation in the Spotlight programme, that I am suing.

He said he had sued against what he considers to be an issue that sets aside the huge work that was done by him and others on the peace process.

He said the import of the programme was that his work to end the campaign of violence was a scam and that the IRA Army Council had authorised the killing of Mr Donaldson and asked Mr Adams for permission.

He said he considered this to be a lie and grievous smear which could have no other impact on the peace process but to undermine what was achieved.

Mr Adams repeatedly said the issues being raised in the court were more of the same and had not mentioned the allegation in the Spotlight programme which was at issue in the case.

He said his solicitor had made a strenuous effort to get the BBC to deal with the matter outside of the courts, noting it was licence-fee payers for the broadcaster that were paying for Mr Gallaghers services.

Asked if he was appalled by allegations that he was involved in the crimes of the IRA Army Council dating back decades, he said he would not use that word but would say he was irritated.

He said allegations about him were getting in the way of his engagements on the peace process.

When Mr Gallagher raised how many people had been killed by the IRA, Mr Adams said: Please dont lecture me on the number of people who have been killed, adding that he gave thanks that a peace process had been put together to stop that.

Mr Adams legal representatives objected to the line of questioning on the series of newspapers articles to say that Mr Gallagher was advancing the materials as to the truth of their content.

Judge Owens told the jury that all of this guff is not evidence as to whether or not Mr Adams was a member of the IRA, and were simply to be taken that the assertions were in the public domain.

Mr Adams further said the media had demonised Sinn Fein.

He said he did not want to be egotistical as he considered himself to be as flawed as anybody else in the room, adding: I dont go around trumpeting my achievements.

However, he said he had  with others  achieved a peace process and built Sinn Fein to the largest party on the island.

Mr Adams said he acknowledged there were various allegations and assertions about his alleged involvement with the IRA and its crimes across various forms of media, including books, television and newspaper, spanning a period of decades.

However, he said he never acknowledged their accuracy nor correctness  adding: In fact, I deny them.

He added: There are of course some folk who want to fight the war all over again and set aside the progress that has been made  and that includes those who killed Denis Donaldson, and Im sure whoever it was who would like to see me dead as well.

Mr Adams was also asked about the Disney television series Say Nothing, based on the book of the same name by US journalist Patrick Radden Keefe.

The series is a dramatisation of several events of the Troubles, including the life of IRA activist Dolours Price and the murder of Jean McConville.

He said he had not seen the series nor read the book, adding: Lifes too short to watch Disney, especially when its dealing with serious issues.

He described the author as an opportunist and said he believed he had declined an opportunity to be interviewed by him.

He also said the work had been based on the discredited Boston Tapes project, which he said were created by two people to get at him.

On the involvement of IRA activist Brendan Hughes, he said Mr Hughes went on to be a supporter of a dissident republican group and had said he would shoot Mr Adams himself.

Asked about the Brighton bombing which involved an attempt on the life of Margaret Thatcher and other members of the Conservative Cabinet, Mr Adams stood by comments he had reportedly made in 1984 that the attack would have been a blow for democracy rather than a blow against democracy.

He told the court that it would be a blow for Irish democracy, against the connection with Britain.

He added: It would be far better, far, far better  and I say this at the age that Im at  if there had been no violence but it was what it was, despite efforts by me and many others that it went on and and on.

Mr Adams said the place that he came from had suffered under successive British prime ministers including Ms Thatcher.

He said: The war is done. Were all in a better place. We can say with certainty that the people of this island will get a referendum and the people of this island will get a chance to vote on the future.

He added that the likelihood of an event like the Brighton bombing happening again in any of our lifetimes has been prevented and avoided by the initiatives taken by me and others.

The trial continues.
A bus driver taking a group of tourists to the Giants Causeway was praised at Dundalk Circuit Court last week for saving the lives of all those on board, when a woman experiencing a mental health crisis deliberately drove a car towards it on the M1.

Emma McCullogh (33) with an address at Cois Cuain, Point Road, Dundalk pleaded guilty to endangerment arising out of the incident at or near Junction 15 northbound, Drumleck on December 12th 2022 and also admitted drink driving and driving without insurance.

The court had previously heard how the bus was travelling at 100kph on cruise control, when the driver saw a Ford Focus with no headlights on facing the wrong direction and took evasive action.

The defendant, who failed a roadside breath test, told gardai she had initially tried to jump off the bridge but could not climb over it and footage from the bus showed the car didnt swerve or appear to brake.

READ NEXT: GAA TV volunteer caught with counterfeit cigarettes in north Louth pub car park

The Senior Defence counsel stressed that his client has been engaging with counselling and attends Narcotics Anonymous three times a week.

Judge Dara Hayes, who adjourned finalising the matter until last Wednesday, said the lives of 37 people had been at risk and they were saved by the skill and vigilance of the bus driver.

He said it was clear the defendant was in a difficult and dark place and it was better that she didnt succeed.

While she had been assessed as being at moderate risk of reoffending, Judge Hayes noted the defendant had self-referred to the Turas counselling service and it was the view of a counsellor with the HSE addiction services that the defendant is drug and alcohol free.

He imposed a three year sentence for the endangerment charge, which he suspended in full, on her entering a bond to be of good behaviour for that period and placing herself under the supervision of the Probation Service for 18 months.

A 10 year disqualification from driving from the first of June was also imposed along with concurrent six month sentences for the two other offences.
Gerry Adams has said he had been legally advised he would not get any sort of a fair hearing by challenging several claims that he had been a member of the IRA in court, during a libel trial against the BBC.

The 76-year-old said he is suing the BBC over allegations in a broadcast which sets aside the huge work that was done by him on the peace process and to persuade the IRA to leave the stage.

The former Sinn Fein leader and Louth TD said he was irritated by allegations he had been a member of the IRA Army Council but that he had previously been advised not to pursue such claims.

However, he said he was suing the BBC over a 2016 broadcast because it had contained a grievous smear that he takes seriously.

Mr Adams gave evidence for a sixth day as part of his defamation case against the BBC at the High Court in Dublin.

He claims a BBC Spotlight programme, and an accompanying online story, defamed him by alleging he sanctioned the killing of the former Sinn Fein official Denis Donaldson.

Mr Donaldson, who had worked for Sinn Fein, was shot dead in Donegal in 2006, months after admitting his role as a police and MI5 agent for 20 years.

Mr Adams denies any involvement.

In 2009, the Real IRA admitted killing Mr Donaldson.

The Spotlight programme was broadcast in September 2016.

The trial opened last week with barrister for Mr Adams, Tom Hogan SC, saying the former Sinn Fein presidents reputation as a peacemaker had suffered an unjustified attack because of the broadcast of the BBC programme.

On Wednesday, Mr Adams continued taking questions from the barrister for the BBC, Paul Gallagher SC.

In front of the jury, Mr Gallagher read extracts from books and a series of newspaper articles which featured politicians including former taoisigh Bertie Ahern and Enda Kenny, as well as SDLP founder John Hume and ex-UUP leader David Trimble, expressing surprise that Mr Adams was not acknowledging he was a member of the IRA.

Mr Adams said he did tens of thousands of interviews and could not recall every single one.

He repeatedly said it was not for him to comment on the journalistic content of the extracts, also noting that it was open for Mr Gallagher to call Mr Ahern to explain his comments to the court.

The former Sinn Fein leader was also questioned on matters relating to a number of issues, including the partys move to end abstentionism from the Oireachtas, Stormontgate and the killing of prison officer Brian Stack.

On the subject of ending abstentionism, Mr Adams said he had never purported to speak for the IRA ever.

He said whatever the IRA was going to do on that topic, he and others had come to the considered position that it was the right policy.

Asked by judge Alexander Owens if all members of the IRA would be members of Sinn Fein, Mr Adams said it was not the case and that not all members of Sinn Fein would necessarily support the IRA.

While stating he was not able to specifically remember individual articles that were raised by Mr Gallagher, Mr Adams acknowledged that claims about him being a member of the Army Council of the IRA had been raised in public.

He said he was doing this to save the court time as Mr Gallagher was repeating questions time and time and time again.

He further accused Mr Gallagher of trying to persuade the jury that he did not have a reputation or that his reputation was useless.

He said the BBCs lawyer was engaging in a smothering saturation of the jury with obscure quotes dating back 30-40 years.

Mr Adams said he brought allegations to his legal team as a matter of routine and added that he had repeatedly received legal advice that he would not get any sort of a fair hearing to challenge various claims made about him in the press.

However, he said he had taken action on a number of occasions by writing to editors or the Press Council which had resulted in retractions or apologies.

In the case of the action against the BBC, he added: That shows how seriously I take this allegation in the Spotlight programme, that I am suing.

He said he had sued against what he considers to be an issue that sets aside the huge work that was done by him and others on the peace process.

He said the import of the programme was that his work to end the campaign of violence was a scam and that the IRA Army Council had authorised the killing of Mr Donaldson and asked Mr Adams for permission.

He said he considered this to be a lie and grievous smear which could have no other impact on the peace process but to undermine what was achieved.

Mr Adams repeatedly said the issues being raised in the court were more of the same and had not mentioned the allegation in the Spotlight programme which was at issue in the case.

He said his solicitor had made a strenuous effort to get the BBC to deal with the matter outside of the courts, noting it was licence-fee payers for the broadcaster that were paying for Mr Gallaghers services.

Asked if he was appalled by allegations that he was involved in the crimes of the IRA Army Council dating back decades, he said he would not use that word but would say he was irritated.

He said allegations about him were getting in the way of his engagements on the peace process.

When Mr Gallagher raised how many people had been killed by the IRA, Mr Adams said: Please dont lecture me on the number of people who have been killed, adding that he gave thanks that a peace process had been put together to stop that.

Mr Adams legal representatives objected to the line of questioning on the series of newspapers articles to say that Mr Gallagher was advancing the materials as to the truth of their content.

Judge Owens told the jury that all of this guff is not evidence as to whether or not Mr Adams was a member of the IRA, and were simply to be taken that the assertions were in the public domain.

Mr Adams further said the media had demonised Sinn Fein.

He said he did not want to be egotistical as he considered himself to be as flawed as anybody else in the room, adding: I dont go around trumpeting my achievements.

However, he said he had  with others  achieved a peace process and built Sinn Fein to the largest party on the island.

Mr Adams said he acknowledged there were various allegations and assertions about his alleged involvement with the IRA and its crimes across various forms of media, including books, television and newspaper, spanning a period of decades.

However, he said he never acknowledged their accuracy nor correctness  adding: In fact, I deny them.

He added: There are of course some folk who want to fight the war all over again and set aside the progress that has been made  and that includes those who killed Denis Donaldson, and Im sure whoever it was who would like to see me dead as well.

Mr Adams was also asked about the Disney television series Say Nothing, based on the book of the same name by US journalist Patrick Radden Keefe.

The series is a dramatisation of several events of the Troubles, including the life of IRA activist Dolours Price and the murder of Jean McConville.

He said he had not seen the series nor read the book, adding: Lifes too short to watch Disney, especially when its dealing with serious issues.

He described the author as an opportunist and said he believed he had declined an opportunity to be interviewed by him.

He also said the work had been based on the discredited Boston Tapes project, which he said were created by two people to get at him.

On the involvement of IRA activist Brendan Hughes, he said Mr Hughes went on to be a supporter of a dissident republican group and had said he would shoot Mr Adams himself.

Asked about the Brighton bombing which involved an attempt on the life of Margaret Thatcher and other members of the Conservative Cabinet, Mr Adams stood by comments he had reportedly made in 1984 that the attack would have been a blow for democracy rather than a blow against democracy.

Read Next: Dundalk IT Virtual Laboratories team hosts celebration of project success

He told the court that it would be a blow for Irish democracy, against the connection with Britain.

He added: It would be far better, far, far better  and I say this at the age that Im at  if there had been no violence but it was what it was, despite efforts by me and many others that it went on and and on.

Mr Adams said the place that he came from had suffered under successive British prime ministers including Ms Thatcher.

He said: The war is done. Were all in a better place. We can say with certainty that the people of this island will get a referendum and the people of this island will get a chance to vote on the future.

He added that the likelihood of an event like the Brighton bombing happening again in any of our lifetimes has been prevented and avoided by the initiatives taken by me and others.

The trial continues
Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) launched the Innovative Healthcare Showcase on the 6th of May 2025, an event focused on digital health innovation, in the presence of healthcare leaders, researchers, and industry professionals from across the country.

Welcoming attendees, President of DkIT, Diarmuid OCallaghan, opened the event by acknowledging the strategic importance of partnerships in driving transformation in Irelands healthcare system. Special recognition was given to the HSE Technology and Transformation team, with whom DkIT has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

This MoU is more than a document. It represents a shared vision to connect education, research, and innovation with the real-world needs of Irelands healthcare system. said President OCallaghan.

Hosted at the DkIT campus, the event highlighted the long-standing legacy and leadership of the DkIT Regional Development Centre (RDC)  Irelands first innovation centre based on a higher education campus. Now in its 35th year, the RDC is a national leader in digital health innovation, driving major initiatives such as the Connected Health and Wellbeing Cluster, dConnect, and DigiBio.

Fran Thompson, Chief Information Officer, HSE added, This agreement reflects our belief that meaningful transformation comes through collaboration. Working with DkIT allows us to share real-world insights with students while also gaining fresh perspectives through research and innovation. Its a win-win for HSE Technology and Transformation and the wider system.

Speaking after the event, Aidan Browne, Head of Innovation and Business Development, Regional Development Centre, DkIT, said, These initiatives exemplify DkITs role in building a thriving digital health ecosystem, supporting enterprise growth, and leveraging pioneering campus-based research. The collaborations fostered by the RDC have positioned the Institute as a key player in both national and international healthcare innovation networks.

The showcase event focused on addressing opportunities and challenges in the innovation and commercialisation of Digital Health, encouraging dialogue and cooperation between academia, industry, and public sector stakeholders.

This MoU builds upon the relationship that the HSE Technology and Transformation team have developed with DkIT over the past two years, especially in relation to their support of the EIT Health I-Days Student Digital Health Challenge. Its great to have them as one of the seventy-five Cluster members working together to improve the Irish Healthcare system via innovation and technology, according to Breanndan Casey, the Education & Outreach Manager of the Connected Health & Wellbeing Cluster.

Read Next: Former Louth TD tells libel case he will not speculate on who was in the IRA

Finally, President OCallaghan concluded, This collaboration with the HSE is a significant step forward in how we prepare our graduates for careers that can truly make a difference. It ensures our students are not only technically skilled but also understand the vital role digital solutions play in delivering better health outcomes. We are proud to be working alongside the HSE to build a workforce thats ready for the challenges of modern healthcare.
UCD Lochlann Quinn School of Business in collaboration with the Dublin branch of the Business Studies Teachers Association of Ireland (BSTAI), hosted its annual Junior Cycle Business Studies Awards Ceremony earlier this spring with Eoin Larkin of Dundalk Grammar School awarded Certificate of Excellence.

The event recognised the outstanding achievements of secondary school students who excelled in the Junior Certificate.

It is the first time that the event is taking place since 2020 due to the Covid pandemic.

The ceremony celebrated the hard work and dedication of 123 students who achieved a Distinction in their Higher Level Business Studies exam, which represent the top 3% of students. This marks an exciting milestone for these students, many of whom are now in their Transition Year and visiting UCD for the first time.

Each student was formally presented with a Certificate of Achievement by the President of the BSTAI, Ciaran ORiordan, and Director of UCD Quinn School, Associate Professor Maeve Houlihan, in recognition of their academic excellence.

As a tribute to the commitment and excellence in business education, a commemorative plaque will be awarded to each participating school. These plaques serve as a lasting testament to the schools' dedication to fostering academic success and are proudly displayed within their institutions.

Read Next: Former Louth TD criticises grievous smear in BBC Spotlight programme

We are delighted to welcome these outstanding students and their families to UCD Lochlann Quinn School of Business to celebrate their achievements. Their dedication to business studies is commendable, and we look forward to supporting and inspiring the next generation of business leaders, said Director Maeve Houlihan.

The event drew attendees from 22 schools across Dublin, Drogheda, Louth, Meath, Monaghan and Wicklow, with students accompanied by their parents and teachers.

By honouring both students and schools, UCD Quinn School and BSTAI continue to highlight the importance of business education and encourage academic excellence in the field.
Two international photographers from the specialist website Fire and Rescue Photography paid a visit to all five of Louth County Councils fire stations - Drogheda, Dunleer, Ardee, Carlingford and Dundalk - recently.

John Godwin, the UK-based managing editor, and Jean-Paul Heyens, a European correspondent based in Belgium, contribute to the global site, which documents the history, development, and operational use of fire and rescue vehicles in over 100 countries.

Each year, members of their team visit different fire services across the world in pursuit of their hobby, to showcase their respective fire fleets and the great work undertaken by firefighters.

Among the highlights of their trip was photographing two vintage Albion/Merryweather pump escapes, which are preserved at Drogheda and Dundalk Fire Stations.

Managing editor John Godwin said: We are grateful for the assistance of Joe Lumsden and for the warm welcome we received at each of Louth's fire stations.

It has been a fantastic opportunity to photograph Louth County Council Fire and Rescue Services various fire vehicles and rescue equipment, as well as the two vintage Albion/Merryweather pump escapes, both of which were deployed during the Belfast Blitz in April 1941.

We look forward to sharing these new photographs on our website over the coming weeks, which will help to promote Louth's fire and rescue capabilities to firefighters and enthusiasts around the world.

Read Next: Former Louth TD criticises grievous smear in BBC Spotlight programme

Joe Lumsden, Senior Assistant Chief Fire Officer, said: We were delighted to welcome John and Jean-Paul to our fire stations recently. Their commitment to recording fire service fleets around the world will be invaluable to historians in the years to come

From our perspective, it was great that they were able to capture our two preserved Merryweather fire appliances, which we are particularly proud of. They represent an important piece of Louths fire service heritage.

For more information, visit www.fire-appliances.com
Tell us about yourself:

Im a secondary school English teacher, a columnist, and a poet.

I spent 12 years abroad, teaching in London and Abu Dhabi, before coming home in 2018.

I wrote for The Echo when I was in my early twenties so got back in touch when I came home, writing features initially. Then I wrote a Secret Teacher column for the Irish Examiner for a few years, culminating in a non-fiction book published by Orpen Press.

For the last two years, Ive been writing a Friday column for the Irish Examiner. Its an honour.

As for poetry, Ive been scribbling since I was a small child.

Where were you born?

Cork city

Where do you live?

Cork city - full circle.

Family?

I come from a family of six and now have my own family of five - two girls and a boy, and a dog named Nero.

Best friend?

Too difficult. Next question.

Earliest childhood memory?

Im looking down at my feet, scaling the rubble of what was going to be my house. Im wearing red boots and Im pretty sure I have them on the wrong feet. I still struggle with the small things.

Person you most admire?

Too many to name one, but I have huge respect for my parents who maintain a sunny outlook no matter what. My parents-in-law are also deeply optimistic and kind. My sister. My husband.

Person who most irritates you?

Myself - when I dont manage those small things.

Where was your most memorable holiday?

Myself and my husband (then boyfriend) took a weekend trip to Edinburgh when we were in our twenties. There was something magical about it, from start to finish. We couldnt afford to eat out so we had picnics instead. It was simple and perfect. I remember the Pulp song Babies playing in a shop, and thinking about our future together.

Favourite TV programme?

Schitts Creek.

Favourite radio show?

I listen to RTE One quite a bit. I like Matt Cooper on Today FM. Mostly, I listen to podcasts.

Your signature dish if cooking?

Its too rare an event to warrant the word signature.

Favourite restaurant?

My uncles restaurant in Kinsale - Man Friday.

Last book you read?

Clear, by Carys Davies - wonderful stuff.

Best book you read?

Too difficult, but the book that made me fall in love with words was Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier. I think shes a very underrated writer.

Last album/CD/download you bought?

Bob Dylan - Blood On The Tracks.

Favourite song?

Depends on my mood. Today Im going to say Joan Armatradings Love And Affection.

One person you would like to see in concert?

Can I go back in time? Id like to see The Bands final show on November 25, 1976, in San Fransico. That stage was heaving with talent.

Do you have a pet?

Yes - Nero. We have had him since last year and he is the best. Hes very little and likes to bark at very big dogs.

Morning person or night owl?

Morning - but Im getting lazier as I age. I like to spend mornings working in bed if Im not teaching.

Your proudest moment?

Having my three babies.

Spendthrift or saver?

Spendthrift, but mostly in charity shops.

Name one thing you would improve in your area in which you live?

The bus service. I would rather not drive but the infrastructure makes you feel like an idiot a lot of the time.

What makes you happy?

Ordinary things like being at home or wandering under trees in nice weather.

How would you like to be remembered?

As somebody who was kind.

What else are you up to at the moment?

Im doing a few creative projects through the City Council. It is such a privilege to sit and listen to other peoples stories.

I particularly enjoy listening to the stories of older people. I never met my grandparents so theres something wonderful about revisiting the past that way.

See www.westcorkliteraryfestival.ie.
A small, independent Cork publisher has earned a second consecutive nomination at the British Book Awards, one of the most prestigious events in the UK publishing calendar.

Banshee Press, founded in 2015, has been shortlisted for Small Press of the Year  the only Irish nominee in the category.

It would just be incredible visibility for us, and an incredible honour, says Eimear Ryan, managing editor and co-founder, of the prospect of winning the category.

Were nominated alongside nine other presses from across the UK. Some of them are a lot bigger than us, even though were all technically small press. Its a huge recognition.

Ryan is based in Ballincollig and teaches creative writing in University College Cork.

She says of Banshee Press: We all work from home  no big headquarters  but Waterstones and other Cork bookshops have been unbelievably supportive of us since the beginning. We definitely feel that Cork connection.

The company began life as a literary journal, publishing short stories, essays, poetry, and flash fiction.

We wanted to create a literary space for the kind of work we were writing ourselves, says Ryan.

At the time, a lot of writing by young women was being put into young adults or womens commercial fiction.

We felt there was a need for a young, feminist, literary perspective.

Their editorial team includes Jessica Traynor (poetry), John Patrick McHugh (fiction), Marie Gethins (flash fiction), and Molly Hennigan (non-fiction).

Theyre all brilliant practitioners in their own fields, Ryan says. Having their eyes on the work has been incredible.

Banshee Press started publishing books in 2019  initially just one a year. In 2022, we published two. And now, for the first time ever, were doing three, she says.

That steady growth is exactly what we hoped for. We want to be a high-quality, safe harbour for our authors.

Banshees breakthrough year came in 2023, when they published Penelope Unbound by Mary Morrissey. Marys such an established name and shes based in Cork, Ryan explains. That novel was a bit of a bestseller for us.

We got a featured review in The Observer and The Guardian, and John Banville spoke very well of it. That really made people sit up and take notice  especially in the UK.

This years nomination was boosted by the success of the debut poetry collection by Gustav Parker Hibbett, which was shortlisted for the T.S. Eliot Prize  one of the most significant honours in the poetry world.

Theyre an incredible poet, Ryan says. It was so exciting to see a debut make that kind of splash.

As part of their growing success, Ryan is quick to credit the support thats helped Banshee thrive.

We invest quite a bit in design because we want our books to look as good as anything from the big five publishers, says Ryan.

Were extremely grateful to the Arts Council and Cork City Council. That support allows us to pay our contributors decently and to offer proper advances to our authors.

The path to publication with Banshee is democratic. We open submissions twice a year  in March and October  and weve found nearly all of our authors that way, Ryan explains.

Voice is everything. Within a page or two, you know if the writer has that narrative confidence. Its a hard thing to define, but when its there, you feel it straight away.

Their first author, Lucy Sweeney Byrne, came to them with a short story. She was in our very first issue, Ryan recalls. We just loved her work.

She published three or four more stories with us and then came to us with a full collection.

While the literary journal is stocked mainly by independent bookshops, the books themselves are distributed across Ireland and the UK.

Gill handle distribution in Ireland and Turnaround do the UK, says Ryan. That ensures were on the shelves of all the good bookshops.

And where larger publishers might be swayed by trends or marketing potential, Banshee remains focused on finding fresh and underrepresented voices.

We started out to platform female writers, but now were asking: who else isnt being heard? she says. Are we publishing enough writers of colour? LGBTQ writers? Disabled writers? Were trying to seek those voices out.

Why does it matter?

Eimear Ryan and Laura Cassidy at last years British Book Awards

One of the most powerful things about reading is its ability to create empathy, Ryan says.

Reading about someone totally different from you can help you see the world through their eyes. And on the flip side, theres something incredible about recognising yourself on the page  seeing your thoughts or your life reflected. Thats deeply validating.

Banshees impact isnt just local. Many of their recent authors  including Parker Hibbett  were drawn to Ireland from abroad because of the countrys literary ecosystem.

Our last three authors werent born in Ireland, says Ryan. Claire-Lise Kieffer came from France to study in Galway, Bebe Ashley from England to Belfast, and Parker Hibbett from New Mexico to Trinity.

Ireland is seen as a place where you can have a writing career now. The Arts Council support the small presses, the creative writing courses  it all adds up.

To date, Banshee Press authors have been listed for such awards as the Edge Hill Prize, the Kate OBrien Award, the Butler Literary Award, the John McGahern Annual Book Prize, the Seamus Heaney Poetry Prize, the Polari First Book Prize, the Ivan Juritz Prize, the Laurel Prize, and the T. S. Eliot Prize.

So whats next for the tiny team behind this quietly ambitious press?

Wed love to keep growing  slowly and steadily, Ryan says. Most of all, we want to keep supporting our writers.

Many of them have published their debut with us, and wed love to be there for book two, and three, and beyond.

Having won the Island of Irelands Small Press of the Year award for the second year in a row, Banshee Press are now competing for the overall prize at the British Book Awards ceremony at Grosvenor House, London, on May 12.

The awards affirm, connect and energise all who have a hand in creating books and all who read them, by showcasing the authors and illustrators who have stirred our hearts and imaginations, and the industry behind the scenes who have brought them to readers.

Judged by leading industry experts, authors, journalists and celebrities, it is regarded as the BAFTAs of the book trade.
Cork County Council is seeking more funding from the Government to progress tenant-in-situ acquisitions, according to a Cork minister of state.

The issue was raised in the Dail last week by Sinn Fein TD for Cork North Central, Thomas Gould, who asked minister for state at the Department of Housing and TD for Cork South West, Christopher OSullivan, if the Government would commit funding.

Mr Gould explained how the money allocated to Cork City Council was insufficient to cover costs carried over from 2024, which the Department of Housing was aware of.

Mr OSullivan said that they are working on the issue, telling him: I hope that every effort is made to resolve this. I think there are things that could be done.

We are seeing situations where the new criteria that we have set out are being applied to houses for which discussions about buying them under the tenant-in-situ scheme had been entered into in 2024.

I appreciate the equation the deputy set out, that the allocation falls short of living up to the agreements or to tenant-in-situ acquisitions that were set in train in 2024. There is an issue. I understand that the department is working closely with Cork City Council.

He added: Cork County Council is in a similar situation. It has been allocated around 15m for 2025.

Its commitments for 2024 that have not got over the line yet are around 13m. Discussions and further work with local authorities will have to be done to resolve this.

He said that the tenant-in-situ scheme is continuing, but it needs to work for all local authorities, which Mr Gould disagreed with, saying that the scheme is not continuing in Cork, and asking once more for a commitment that the necessary funding be provided, which he did not get.

Mr Gould told The Echo afterwards that this was his second time raising the issue in the Dail, and for the second time, there were no answers.

I asked him for a yes-or-no answer, he said. Would the Government release the money and save 33 families from homelessness? He could not answer that. That is shocking.

These are 33 families, many of whom had tuned in to this debate, who are still without answer.

The fear and stress this Government has caused these families over the last few weeks is beyond scandalous.

It is time to end this now and provide the funding.
Update 15.15pm: A man arrested in connection with an incident of arson and criminal damage to a residential property at a residence in Dublin Pike, Ballincrokig on April 24 has been charged.

He is due to appear before Cork City District Court later this afternoon.

The man, aged in his 30s, was one of two men arrested in connection with the incident and detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984, at a Garda station in Cork city.

Gardai said the second man, also aged in his 30s, remains in custody.

Gardai attached to the Serious Crime Investigation Unit in Cork continue to investigate the incident, a garda spokesperson said.

Earlier: Gardai have arrested two males in connection with what they have described as "an incident of arson" at the house of an elderly couple in Cork last month.

As part of their investigation into the incident two men, both in their 30s were arrested during an operation in the Dublin area on Tuesday. They are currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984, at a garda station in Cork city.

A garda spokesperson said Gardai attached to the Serious Crime Investigation Unit in Cork are continuing to investigate an incident of arson and criminal damage to residential property on Thursday, April 24.

"Shortly after 9pm on the evening in question gardai and fire services responded to a fire at a residence in Dublin Pike, Ballincrokig.

"An elderly couple in their 80s were rescued from the house, which was extensively damaged," said the spokesperson.

"As part of this ongoing investigation, two individuals were arrested during an operation in the Dublin area on May 6, 2025. "During the operation, detectives from Cork searched two residential properties in Dublin.

"Two men, both aged in their 30s, were arrested and are currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984, at a garda station in Cork city.

"The investigation is ongoing, and further updates will follow," they added.
Uisce Eireann has started work on a 6.5m upgrade of the wastewater treatment plant in Macroom.

The project is being carried out by Glanua on behalf of Uisce Eireann and works are due to be completed by the summer of 2026.

An Uisce Eireann spokesperson said that the upgrade will provide a safer and more reliable water supply for approximately 4,000 customers, ensure a more resilient water supply, and improving drinking water quality, ensure compliance with current national and EU drinking water regulations, and contribute to the removal of Macroom public water supply from the EPAs Remedial Action List.

Sinn Fein senator Nicole Ryan said the investment is welcome.

There have been issues with water in Macroom for the last two to nearly three years, so thankfully something is being done about that, she told The Echo.

She added that if the population of Macroom increases any further, she hopes that Uisce Eireann keeps up with that infrastructure.

Speaking recently, Fianna Fail Cork North West TD Aindrias Moynihan described the news as long overdue for the town of Macroom and the surrounding areas.

There is a lot of work ahead, and it will be important to keep after Uisce Eireann, but finally there is a clear roadmap ahead to deal with the repeated boil water notices locals have endured in recent years.

There is a good bit of work to go on it yet, Mr Moynihan said.

But, it is a chance to finally get rid of these boil water notices and poor drinking water quality that people have endured in the Canovee, Carrigadrohid, and Macroom area.

Uisce Eireann aims to keep all stakeholders informed as they progress with this water supply project.

Customers can phone Uisce Eireann on 1800 278278 if they have any questions about the project or visit www.water.ie.
WHILE the Catholic Church has 1.4bn adherents, just 135 cardinals, who will sequester themselves in the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican later today, have the power of electing who among them will be the next pope.

The Echo spoke to a number of Cork priests to get their sense of what they would like from the next papacy.

More Francis or something different? Thats how we in the secular media have chosen to characterise in a few words the election of the next head of the Catholic Church as the conclave gets under way.

The eyes of the worlds Catholics, at least, will be on a temporary chimney that has been installed by the Vatican City Fire Service on the roof of the Sistine Chapel. It will be from this chimney that the first signal of a conclusion to the election will be sent in the form of puffs of white smoke generated by the burning of the ballot papers in chemicals in a stove that has been put in place in the chapel, which is famously bedecked with murals painted by Michelangelo.

This coming conclave will be the first for decades not to have an Irish cardinal with a vote or with a chance of election. The only Irish prelate is Cardinal Sean Brady, who, at over 80, is too old to be elected or to be an elector. Despite this, there is a strong Irish interest in the election, partly because Ireland has a strong Catholic heritage and, also, because we have a healthy interest in elections.

The Cork priests whom The Echo spoke to were keen to stress that the process is unlike polls we all have a vote in, such as local or general elections. The 135 or so cardinals  a handful will be absent due to illness or inability to travel  will be voting according to their own lights, but the prevalent belief is that they will be guided by a higher power, the Holy Spirit.

According to Fr Eamon McCarthy, parish priest in Clondrohid and one-time priest director of the Catholic radio station Radio Maria, this is a tremendously exciting time in the Catholic Church.

You dont have to go back too far to turn a few pages to see that the Holy Spirit has provided exactly who we needed, when we needed him, said Fr McCarthy.

Go back to St John the XXIII: He initiated the Second Vatican Council. Paul VI took over from him, but he had his own challenges, too, but produced the epic encyclical, Humanae Vitae, which is completely misunderstood he said.

He was succeeded by Pope John Paul I, who providentially recognised it was not his time and died 33 days later, and then came St John Paul II, an absolute total legend in terms of what he achieved and what he did. Pope Benedict XVI, his successor, had his role to play in terms of the doctrine and the faith from his background and so on.

Cardinals attend a mass for the election of the Roman Pontiff, prior to the start of the conclave, at St Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, Vatican.(Photo by Vatican Media via Vatican Pool/Getty Images)

Pope Francis had a more pastoral approach to things. Every pope brings his own charism, his own approach to things and, again, thats why we can sit back, in a sense, and watch how the spirit is moving and guiding the Church and trust that its in good hands, because it has been for so long. We might well be surprised with the successor to Pope Francis and what charism and what gifts he will bring to the Church  the doctrine of the Church is quite safe.

Speaking to The Echo, Fr Tom Hayes, parish priest in Clonakilty and vicar general, said the day-to-day impact of the papacy on the life of an individual parish isnt as big as people might think.

Those of us who are in ministry in parishes, our ministry with the bereaved isnt really going to change depending on whos going to be pope.

Sometimes the debate gets put on to a level which is removed from the reality.

Fr Hayes acknowledged that the pope, as leader, had a role as shepherd to guide us all to Christ.

Different popes have different ways of doing that, he said. I think, whoever the Holy Spirit chooses to give us as the next pope will be welcomed by pretty much everybody, certainly by the priests on the ground.

He pointed out the differences between this and what secular society views as an election. The cardinals do vote, but they vote after a period of prayer and discussion and discerning. The questions they are asking are not, Who would be a good pope? The questions theyre asking are, Where is the Church at in the world at the minute? and Where is God guiding his Church and, therefore, what kind of qualities are needed to provide that guidance?

The cardinals who have the privilege of voting represent hundreds of millions of Catholics across the world.

Those of us who are in a parish in West Cork, or wherever else, we tend to be very local in our understanding and our perspective. Those of us in the northern hemisphere find it very hard to empathise with those on the other side of the world.

Fr Aquin Casey, a priest in Cobh, who has just returned from a holiday in Rome that coincided with the funeral of the late Pope Francis, said the description of election didnt sit well with what was happening.

Its not like a general or presidential election, he said. Our belief is that there is a higher power at work.

Its the first time, actually, I know very little about any of the cardinals that could be elected. Theyre all sort of unknown quantities to me.

When put in the concise terms of more Francis or different to Francis, Fr Casey has this to say.

My own preference would be more Francis, my feeling is that he has certainly left a legacy that is suitable for our Church today.

While few names were mentioned by the different priests spoken to by The Echo, the sense was that whoever is chosen will be who is required at this time.

According to Fr McCarthy, when people 500 or 1,000 years hence will be looking back at this time, the era of St John Paul II, Pope Benedict, and Pope Francis will be seen as having been an epic time to be a Catholic.
Childcare campaigners from the Together for Public Alliance gathered outside Leinster House on Thursday to call for action to tackle the ongoing childcare crisis.

The latest available figures from Pobal show that families in Cork city are paying up to 280 for full-time daycare per week.

The Government has committed to developing an action plan on early childhood education and care, to reduce fees for families to 200 per month per child, and to roll out State-led, public childcare provision.

However, the campaigners, led by the National Womens Council (NWC) and including representatives from SIPTU and the ICTU, say they are yet to see significant action to progress these commitments 100 days into the new government.

Minna Murphy, who operates two preschools and an afterschool service near Watergrasshill, told The Echo that a private model should see the government treating early years educators similarly to teachers.

Teachers have all these perks. We operate 38 weeks like they do and if we offer the ECCE scheme, the only money we get is from the government. But my staff have to sign up for the unemployment benefit during the summer months, she explained.

I am originally from Finland so I have seen how the public model there works. It enhances everyones wellbeing  families, staff and providers, she said, adding this is the norm not just in Nordic, but in many other European countries, and that Ireland is lagging behind in investment compared to most.

In Finland, we are under the umbrella of the department of education because we are seen as that first step on ladder, so its a recognition of the importance of the work, its not just about salary and holidays and perks.

I am in my tenth year now with my service, and only when I expanded to a second service and afterschool am I able to pay myself a managerial salary, before that I always paid the staff and the business first, Ms Murphy added.

Orla OConnor, director of the NWC, said the childcare crisis is especially affecting women, including marginalised women who cannot participate fully in society and are often forced to reduce their working hours or even leave the workforce entirely.

Changing this will only be possible in a sustainable way if we move away from the current private provision of childcare subsided by the State, to a system where the State delivers childcare directly through a not for profit, public system, she said.
Three men allegedly drove from Dublin to Cork to set fire to a house causing up to 550,000 damage.

The complete destruction of the house was also video recorded by one of them, but the couple in their 80s who lived there were not believed to be the actual target of the attack, gardai stated in court today.

One of the men, Paul McCarthy (37) of 40 Dowth Avenue, Cabra, Dublin, was charged by Detective Garda Brian Murphy with arson at Fernbrook, Ballincrokig, County Cork, on April 24, when he allegedly carried out an arson attack on a house causing up to 550,000 damage.

Det Garda Murphy objected to bail and said: It is alleged that Paul McCarthy drove from Dublin, passing the Watergrasshill toll at 8.30pm

At 9pm the car arrives at the house and three people exit. Two enter the curtilage of the property, ignited two glass petrol bombs with a blowtorch. They smashed a bedroom window and threw in these petrol bombs.

The third person  believed to be Paul McCarthy  stands close to the vehicle and allegedly films the incident on his mobile phone.

The Skoda Octavia enters the Plaza filling station in Portlaoise just before midnight and Paul McCarthy is identified, filling the car with 30 of diesel and leaving without paying.

A man aged 87 and his 86-year-old wife were watching television in the house at the time. It was quickly engulfed in flames but they were unharmed.

If it had been a short time later they would have been in bed and possibly killed. Paul McCarthy had complete disregard for the elderly occupants of the property which was completely destroyed.

From the initial investigation, gardai are not of the belief that these persons were the intended victims, Det Garda Murphy said.

Defence barrister Saoirse Kelly said in the course of a bail application that the accused would agree to any conditions if given bail.

Judge Mary Dorgan refused bail and remanded the accused in custody until May 14.

Sergeant John Kelleher said directions were awaited from the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Global uncertainty highlights necessity of closer EU-China cooperation: BiH expert

Xinhua) 10:10, May 07, 2025

SARAJEVO, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Closer cooperation between European countries and China is crucial in view of the instability caused by an unpredictable United States administration, a leading figure in Bosnian-Chinese relations stressed in a recent interview with Xinhua.

President of the Bosnian-Chinese Friendship Association Faruk Boric highlighted such challenges as geopolitical tensions, energy crises and the reorganization of global supply chains, saying: "It is time for Europe to awaken, reflect, and seize the opportunity to cooperate with China and other countries."

The European Union (EU) has traditionally been an ally of the United States, Boric said. However, this relationship has been undermined by U.S. President Donald Trump's unpredictable behavior, which has thrown the world into crisis.

"EU-China cooperation is not optional, but a shared responsibility bestowed by our time," the expert stressed.

Boric, who is also the executive director of the Center for Promotion and Development of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), emphasized China's crucial role in stabilizing global supply chains, promoting green development, and enhancing connectivity.

China's path of modernization offers valuable lessons for the world, he underlined, particularly in addressing global issues such as unequal development, environmental challenges, and digital transformation.

Europe, with its strong technological capabilities and industrial foundation, stands to benefit greatly from increased collaboration with China, which will drive regional and global sustainable development. As two of the world's largest economies, the EU and China must overcome misunderstandings and seize the opportunity for cooperation, he added.

Boric also emphasized the role of BiH in building bridges between the EU and China. Although Bosnia is a small country, as a neighbor of the EU and a potential member of the bloc, Bosnia can offer a platform for pilot projects related to the BRI, he said.

As EU-China cooperation grows in areas including green energy, digital economy, and infrastructure, Boric expressed his confidence that Europe will adopt a more pragmatic, open approach to its relationship with China, moving away from external pressures.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
A phone linked to Richard Satchwell sent text messages about issues purchasing monkeys over the same period when he is alleged to have murdered his wife, with one message reading: I am in a mess right now because my wife has said she is leaving me over this, his trial has heard.

The jury were also told today of text messages sent by the phone to both Mr Satchwells family and that of his wife Tina. The court heard Mr Satchwell told Tinas cousin that he discovered a birth cert and marriage cert were gone.

Please try to understand that I love her with all my being....You know that I cry all the time even now writing this... I feel I let her down in some way, another message read.

There was also evidence the phone sent a text message to a contact saved as Dad that read: Hi dad, hope you are well and good, I just want to let you know that Tina walked out on Monday and took all our savings with her.

The trial has heard that on March 24, 2017, Mr Satchwell told gardai that his wife Tina had left their home four days earlier but that he had no concerns over her welfare, feeling she had left due to a deterioration in their relationship.

The accused formally reported Ms Satchwell missing the following May but her body was not discovered for over six years, when gardai in October 2023 found her decomposed remains in a grave that had been dug underneath the stairs of her home.

Mr Satchwells home was searched by a team of 10 gardai on June 7, 2017, but the jury have been told this was a non-invasive search.

Superintendent Annemarie Twomey told Geraldine Small SC, prosecuting, that she was appointed senior investigation officer for the case on August 16, 2021, at which point Tina Satchwell had been missing for four years and five months.

Supt Twomey said that once she had reviewed the material in the incident room  including inquiries with ports, airports, the social welfare and passport offices  she had reasonable grounds to believe that Tina was not a missing person and had met her death through unlawful means. She said she had reasonable grounds to believe the arrest of Mr Satchwell was necessary for a proper investigation into the murder of Tina.

The Supt said there had been up to 65 reported sightings of Ms Satchwell in Ireland and abroad, which all proved negative. She said the sightings abroad had necessitated the assistance of Interpol.

The witness said that on October 10, 2023, she told Mr Satchwell she had a warrant and that on this occasion it would be an intrusive or invasive search of his home, different to the previous search conducted in 2017.

Under cross-examination by Brendan Grehan SC, defending, Supt Twomey said she had no involvement in the investigation prior to August 2021.

Asked by Mr Grehan whether there was a report from the garda in charge in 2017 to outline what exactly was searched in Grattan St and if the house had been intrusively or invasively searched, the Supt said she couldnt remember whether there was a report in the incident room but there may have been.

She told Mr Grehan it was at the end of August 2022 that she had reasonable grounds to believe it was necessary to arrest Mr Satchwell. However, she said gardai didnt arrest Mr Satchwell at that stage as 58 other lines of inquiry needed to be exhausted.

Supt Twomey said it was in February 2022 that gardai formed the view that Tina was no longer a living person.

The witness said she knew the search of Grattan St by gardai in June 2017 had not been an intrusive one. However, the she said when she got the search warrant in 2023, it was for an invasive search and she was accompanied to Grattan St by an archaeologist and a building contractor.

Asked by Mr Grehan if she thought gardai had conducted a thorough search in 2017, Supt Twomey said she had no involvement in that investigation.

Would you have expected any such search would have sought to unearth the remains of Tina Satchwell in the house? asked counsel. Supt Twomey said in 2017 the search had related to assault causing harm to Tina and items such as mobile phones were seized.

Mr Grehan put it to the witness that she should have sought information as to how thorough the search of Grattan St was in 2017, including as to whether anyone had raised floor boards or whether there was any sign of fresh building works. The witness said photographs taken had shown works completed on the stairs. She said she told the district court judge when applying for the warrant in 2023 that a surface search of Grattan St had been conducted in 2017.

How did you know it was a surface search if you didnt have any report from anybody detailing how thorough the search was? asked Mr Grehan.

The witness said, for her, an intrusive search is causing movement of blocks or walls or stairs and from the information I had from the incident room I knew that hadnt happened, she replied.

Mr Grehan put it to the witness that, as a matter of law, there was nothing to stop gardai from conducting an invasive search of the house in June 2017.

I cant answer that question... what they did or didnt do; I dont know what the investigations belief was at the time, she replied.

Quicklime

Detective Garda Dave Kelleher told Ms Small that laptops were taken from a search of Grattan St in 2017 and it was found that a search for Quicklime had been carried out on one of the devices at 9.08pm on March 24, 2017, four days after Mr Satchwell told gardai that his wife Tina had left their home.

The officer said a video on YouTube for Quicklime and water reaction had been viewed on two occasions seconds later. The video was shown to the jury today and depicted a blue basin and a chemical reaction taking place.

Location data

A timeline of movements attributed to Mr Satchwell from March 19, 2017, to March 28, 2017, was shown to the jury through a Powerpoint presentation. Mr Satchwells mobile phone showed he was in Youghal Post Office at 11.16am on March 20, 2017. The accuseds device then returned to Grattan St and it did not leave the house until 12.49pm. The device then arrived at Aldi in Dungarvan at 1.20pm and arrived back at Grattan St at 2.47pm.

CCTV footage also showed the accused arriving with his two dogs at Youghal Post Office at 11.13am and then at Aldi in Dungarvan at 1.20pm. The jury has heard that in a 2021 interview with gardai, Mr Satchwell said he left his home for Dungarvan around 10am on the morning Tina disappeared to get bird seed, before going to Aldi.

Marmoset monkeys

Det Gda Kelleher told the prosecutor that Mr Satchwell had attempted to purchase two Marmoset monkeys named Terry and Thelma from 2015 up to March 2017, but the animals never arrived at his door.

Det Gda Kelleher told Ms Small that a Samsung mobile attributed to Mr Satchwell was seized from the house in October 2023. He said there had been 299 exchanges between a contact saved as Airport3 and the accused between April 2016 and April 2017, which related to the purchase of Marmoset monkeys.

On March 20, 2017, at 10.46am, Mr Satchwell sent a text message to Airport3 saying: Hello Mr James I in a mess right now because my wife has said she is leaving me over this so please let the organisation know this, Richard.

The detective said the accused had sent a text message to a UK mobile to a contact saved as Dad on March 25 2017. It read: Hi dad, hope you are well and good, I just want to let you know that Tina walked out on Monday and took all our savings with her. Im hoping she is in touch with me so I can find out what is happening. Love Richard.

Other text messages between Mr Satchwells mobile phone and Tinas cousin Sarah Howard between March 26, 2017, and July 12, 2017, were shown to the jury. On March 26, 2017, a message was sent from the accused to Ms Howard saying: Sarah did you contact Mag, Sindy and Teresa have not heard anything from Tina.

On April 10, 2017, the accused sent another text message to Ms Howard saying: No news but I had to get a job and they needed some paperwork, discovered birth cert and marriage cert gone. Trying to keep everything ticking over until she gets in touch, dont know what else to do.

Financial review

Det Gda Kelleher told Ms Small that a financial review of the couples income was carried out in order to establish whether Tina had left with 26,000 on March 20, 2017, as claimed by the accused.

The detective said a financial document was taken from Ulster Bank under the name Richard Satchwell. A national forensic accountant found that one bank account in the name of Richard Satchwell from 2015 to 2017 was constantly in an unauthorised overdraft  always in the red. The accountant said the Satchwells did not have the capacity to accumulate anywhere near 26,000.

Cross examination

In cross-examination, Det Gda Kelleher told Mr Grehan that gardai became aware of the search for Quicklime well into 2021, when he started looking at devices seized from Grattan St. He said Quicklime had a number of uses including as an odour suppressant in third world countries during mass burials. Mr Grehan said it is thrown on top of bodies to aid the decomposition process. The detective said the timing of the Google search was extremely important considering now what we know where Tinas body was at this time.

The witness agreed with Mr Grehan that the evidence would be that Tina had died the previous Monday so she was dead four days at that stage.

The detective said CCTV footage showing the accused entering Youghal Post office  which was in direct contradiction of the accuseds statement that he was in Dungarvan at this time  was secured by gardai within a month of Tinas disappearance.

The witness said there was an attempt by the accused to buy and import two monkeys in 2015 and Mr Satchwell had sent significant amounts of money through Western Union right through 2016 and 2017 and was also receiving money. Asked by Mr Grehan whether it was some sort of a scam or something criminal, the detective said the two monkeys never arrived and there was a constant demand for more money but it never came to anything.

The trial continues tomorrow before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury of five men and seven women.

Mr Satchwell, aged 58, with an address at Grattan St, Youghal, Co Cork has pleaded not guilty to murdering his 45-year-old wife Tina Satchwell  nee Dingivan  at that address between March 19 and March 20, 2017, both dates inclusive.
The wait for a new pope goes on after black smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel following the first secret vote as the conclave began.

A group of 133 cardinal electors began their behind-closed-doors meeting this afternoon.

It is expected voting will resume tomorrow, and up to four rounds of voting can take place each day, two in the morning and two in the afternoon.

Cardinals, mostly dressed in distinctive bright red vestments, heard at a special mass today of the choice of exceptional importance they must make in electing the 267th pope.

A new pope requires a two-thirds majority in the voting, and white smoke will be emitted from the specially erected chimney of the Sistine Chapel to confirm a pontiff has been chosen.

The voting cardinals, those aged under 80 who are the only ones eligible to cast a ballot, were urged to invoke the help of the Holy Spirit to help them elect a pope whom the (Catholic) Church and humanity need at this difficult and complex turning point in history.

Following a centuries-old tradition, cardinals are cut off from all communications with the outside world while they take part in the anonymous voting process.

In a livestream from the Sistine Chapel, the electors could each be seen taking an oath pledging secrecy on their vote and what happens at conclave.

At around 4.45pm UK time, a Vatican official declared extra omnes, the Latin phrase telling non-cardinals to leave, with the large brown doors of the chapel shut shortly after.

The livestream cut to crowds in St Peters Square in front of St Peters Basilica, some of whom waved when they spotted they were on camera.

This conclave is thought to be one of the most diverse of any meeting of cardinals before, representing some 70 countries and hailing from places such as Mongolia, Sweden and Tonga which had not had a cardinal before.

Pope Francis had appointed some 108 of the 133 cardinals who will choose his successor.
Reuters

Irish economic growth is expected to slow to 2 per cent this year if a 10 per cent tariff on US imports from the European Union remains in place, or 2.5 per cent if tariffs are removed, the Department of Finance forecast on Tuesday.

The department also warned that there would be 25,000 fewer jobs created in the economy, with the labour market growing at a slower rate than would have been the case in a non-tariff scenario.

Ireland is among the countries most exposed to sharp policy changes proposed by US president Donald Trump, with a significant proportion of employment, tax receipts and exports dependent on a cluster of US multinational firms.

The updated estimates compare to a forecast before Trump's election that modified domestic demand (MDD)  officials' preferred way to measure the economy rather than GDP  would grow by 2.9 per cent in 2025 and similarly in 2026. MDD grew by 2.7 per cent last year.

The department said MDD growth would slow further to 1.75 per cent next year if the tariffs are still in place or expand by 2.8 per cent without them. It said it truncated the updated forecast horizon to the end of 2026 due to the elevated uncertainty.

It added that employment growth would slow to 1.75 per cent this year and about 1 per cent next year if the trade barriers remain.

As a member of the EU, Ireland faces tariffs of 10 per cent on many of exports that could rise to 20 per cent after a 90-day US pause ends on July 8th. Brussels has suspended countermeasures to give room for talks, with limited progress seen to date.

Research co-authored by the Department of Finance found in March that the Republic faces a disproportionate hit from tariffs which, if permanent, could cause MDD to be as much as 1.8 per cent smaller than it otherwise would be by 2032.

The State faces additional risks from planned US tariffs on pharmaceuticals and potential US corporate tax reform, both of which could hit booming corporate tax returns that have delivered the healthiest public finances in Europe.

Separate data on Tuesday showed fears over future growth pushed Irish consumer sentiment sharply down for the second successive month in April to its lowest level in two years.
Gardai have arrested three people following a drug seizure in Limerick city.

Officers discovered cannabis worth 30,000 after stopping a vehicle in the Galvone area on Tuesday.

Follow-up searches led to the seizure of 500,000 worth of cannabis and cocaine, 200 rounds of firearms ammunition and 30,000 in cash.

Two men in their 40s and one in his 30s were arrested and are being held at Garda stations in Limerick.

Investigations are ongoing, gardai said.
David Raleigh

A Limerick man who was caught by gardai with over 17,000 worth of cocaine hidden in his underwear has been jailed for six years with the final year suspended.

Evan McNamara (31), of St Columcille Street, St Marys Park, Limerick, produced a cling-film wrapped package from his underwear containing 17,367 of cocaine, cash and a mobile phone when he was stopped and searched by gardai at Dublin Road in Limerick on March 5th, 2023.

McNamara, a father of three, told gardai he was moving the drugs for others that he did not identify, in order to help clear a 70,000 personal cocaine debt he had amassed to criminals.

He claimed he had been under pressure to move the drugs and that he did so out of fear for the safety of his family.

Sentencing judge Colin Daly said: Gardai do not believe this and believe that he [McNamara] was more heavily involved in the sale and supply of drugs.

During a follow-up search of McNamaras home on March 16th, 2023, gardai recovered benzocaine, a cocaine cutting agent. McNamara also took responsibility for a further 9,121 of cocaine found in a subsequent search of his parents home at Flood Street, Killalee, the court heard.

Prosecuting counsel John OSullivan BL said gardai believe McNamara was heavily involved in the sale and supply of drugs in the St Marys Park area of Limerick.

The court heard McNamara is his mothers carer and is in receipt of a carers allowance.

Judge Daly said McNamara had 10 previous convictions, including eight for road traffic offences and two for possessing small quantities of drugs for his own use.

McNamara pleaded guilty before Limerick Circuit Criminal Court to one count of possessing cocaine worth over 13,000 for sale/supply; to one count of possessing cocaine, and to two counts of possessing benzocaine.

His barrister, senior counsel Lorcan Connolly, said McNamara had made efforts to change his life and had engaged with community employer Limerick City Build, founded by businessman Ray OHalloran.

Judge Daly said he satisfied it would have been unjust to impose the presumptive mandatory minimum 10-year sentence for possessing drugs worth more than 13,000, as McNamara had no prior convictions for drugs sale/supply and his guilty pleas were of assistance to the State.

Judge Daly imposed consecutive sentences of three-and-a-half years and two-and-a-half years with the final 12 months suspended for a period of six years, and entered McNamara into a bond which would trigger the activation of the suspended 12 months if he is convicted of any other offence within the next six years.
Eimear Dodd

A man who demanded money from his ex-partner's parents, telling them their house would go up like a Christmas tree has been jailed.

Conor Stewart (31) of Kilcross Court, Sandyford, Dublin 18 pleaded guilty to making an unwarranted demand with menace on May 26th, 2024.

Garda Aaron Carney gave evidence that Stewart called to the house in the Sandyford area.

The father of Stewart's former partner opened the door and saw Stewart was on his phone, with the person on the call appearing to tell him what to say.

Stewart told the injured party that his daughter owed a drug debt of 8,000 and said if 4,000 was not paid, the house would go up like a Christmas tree.

The injured party told Stewart to leave, and he did. The entire incident was captured on a camera doorbell.

After his arrest, Stewart was interviewed once and made admissions. He said he was in difficulty and told he had to do it.

He also showed gardai an injury, which he said was part of the difficulties that he himself was in.

Gda Carney said Stewart entered an early guilty plea, which was of value to the prosecution.

Stewart has 84 previous convictions, including for theft, road traffic and drugs offences. He was on bail at the time of this offence and is currently serving a sentence on a separate matter.

Gda Carney agreed with Michael O'Higgins SC, defending, that Stewart's offending was linked to his longstanding drugs addiction.

It was further agreed that Stewart also owed a drugs debt and was never going to get the benefit of the money that he was demanding to be paid.

Gda Carney agreed that it appeared that a third party was giving directions while Stewart was at the house, and the attempt to demand money was intended to mollify the people to whom the money was owed.

Mr O'Higgins asked the court to take into account his client's guilty plea, personal circumstances and the mitigating factors.

Counsel said Stewart recognises that he needs to break the cycle of offending and has signed up for drugs counselling while in custody.

Imposing sentence, Judge Orla Crowe said Stewart issued a serious threat at the home of someone he knew.

She said this was a one-off incident, and that Stewart left when the injured party told him. The judge added this would have been a frightening experience for the innocent injured party.

Judge Crowe noted that to go and demand money and make threats of that nature is inherently lawless.

She imposed a sentence of two years and three months, with the final nine months suspended for two years, to run consecutive to the sentence Stewart is currently serving.

The judge also directed Stewart to place himself under the supervision of the Probation Services for 12 months post-release.
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.

Wind turbines with Constellation Energy's Criterion Wind Project on Backbone Mountain in Oakland, Maryland on Aug. 22, 2022. Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images

Democratic attorneys general from 17 states and the District of Columbia have filed a lawsuit in Boston federal court to attempt to block President Donald Trumps plan to suspend permitting and leasing of new wind energy projects.

Plaintiffs say the action unlawfully threatens the wind industry, a major source of clean energy.

This administration is devastating one of our nations fastest-growing sources of clean, reliable and affordable energy, said New York Attorney General Letitia James, as The New York Times reported.

James said the move threatened the loss of thousands of good-paying jobs and billions in investments and was delaying our transition away from the fossil fuels that harm our health and our planet.

The Trump administration first halted federal wind energy permits in an executive order signed on January 20, which instructed agencies to stop issuing permits for wind farms until a federal review could be conducted.

The order also instructed the administration to stop issuing loans and leases for offshore and onshore wind projects, reported Reuters.

The lawsuit states that, by complying with the order, federal agencies caused major investments that had already been made to be put at risk.

Plaintiffs are seeking a court order that declares the indefinite pause unlawful while barring agencies such as the United States Departments of the Interior and Commerce, as well as the Environmental Protection Agency, from carrying out Trumps directive.

The Wind Directive has stopped most wind-energy development in its tracks, despite the fact that wind energy is a homegrown source of reliable, affordable energy that supports hundreds of thousands of jobs, creates billions of dollars in economic activity and tax payments, and supplies more than 10% of the countrys electricity, the lawsuit states.

In their complaint, plaintiffs argue that the categorical and indefinite halt on federal wind-energy approvals harms the States efforts to secure reliable, diversified, and affordable sources of energy to meet the ever-increasing demand for electricity.

Trump has repeatedly tried to increase fossil fuel output while interfering with renewable energy, particularly wind, The Hill reported.

The president has also called for a policy in his administration where no windmills are being built.

The wind-energy industry, like many other capital-intensive industries in and beyond the energy sector, operates in a tremendously complex logistical and regulatory environment, where even minor setbacks can dramatically increase costs and delay or even altogether derail wind-energy projects. Accordingly, the Wind Directive and Agency Defendants actions implementing it create an existential threat to the wind industry, the complaint said.
Kim Kardashian was seen scolding a security guard after he accidentally tripped over the dramatic train of her dress for the Met Gala 2025.

Kardashian, 44, was seen exiting The Mark Hotel in New York City on Monday night accompanied by her 11-year-old daughter, North West. While making her way to her vehicle, a bodyguard accidentally stepped on the trailing hem of her custom-made Chrome Hearts black crocodile leather dress, studded with diamonds and pearls. The stumble caused Kardashian to momentarily lose her balance, and she quickly turned to scold the bodyguard.

Although Kardashian did not publicly comment on the incident, those present reported that she appeared to mutter something under her breath to the guard. Expert lip reader Nicola Hickling told the Mirror that the reality star reprimanded the security guard.

"Can you watch where you step?" she allegedly said.

The bodyguard regained his footing, and Kardashian proceeded to the Metropolitan Museum of Art without further issue.

Kardashian's striking Met Gala looka two-piece black leather ensemble with a dramatic train and a matching fedorawas designed by Chrome Hearts to fit the event's theme, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style." She accessorized with a diamond choker and layered necklaces in accordance to the dress code "Tailored For You."

Kardashian's sisters, Kendall and Kylie Jenner, also attended the gala, each donning custom designer pieces. Kendall wore a striking custom suit-inspired gown by Torisheju, featuring a cinched blazer top with a plunging neckline and a maxi skirt with a dramatic train, complete with a massive diamond necklace and a wide-brimmed hat similar to Kim's. Kylie opted for a bespoke Ferragamo halter gown with a sheer corset bodice and a long tweed skirt with a daring slit.

While North West joined her mother for preparations and left the hotel with her, she did not walk the red carpet due to the event's age restriction.
Hilaria Baldwin, yoga instructor and wife of actor Alec Baldwin, is once again addressing the controversy over her Spanish accent, this time attributing her fluctuating speech patterns to her struggles with ADHD and dyslexia.

In her new memoir, "Manual Not Included," Baldwin opens up about how her neurodivergence has affected her language and identity, saying these conditions "greatly impact my speech."

"The more I got treatment for the ADHD that I was trying to ignore, the better I got at separating the two languages and not getting as distracted," Baldwin wrote in her book, according to People magazine. "I am mixed-up but I am not bad or broken. And then Hilaria returned."

Baldwin first faced widespread criticism in 2020 when it was revealed that, despite her public persona as a Spanish woman, she was born and raised in Boston under the name Hillary Hayward-Thomas. For years, she had spoken with a Spanish accent in interviews and claimed Spanish as her first language.

The revelation led to accusations of cultural appropriation and faking her heritage, which Baldwin has repeatedly denied. She has explained that her family spent significant time in Spain and that she was raised speaking both English and Spanish.

In her memoir, Baldwin writes candidly about the toll the controversy took on her mental health, describing feeling "confused" and "lost" as online criticism mounted. She recalls moments of deep sadness, especially when the backlash was at its peak. She also addresses specific incidents, such as forgetting the English word for "cucumber" during a 2015 television appearance, attributing such moments to her "processing differences" rather than any attempt to deceive.

Despite the controversy, Baldwin says she is learning to embrace her unique background and the way her brain works. She continues to teach her children both languages.
Prince Harry's candid BBC interview on May 2 has reignited tensions within the royal family  and now, a top psychiatrist says the Duke may be digging himself into a deeper emotional and psychological hole.

Dr. Raj Persaud, a consultant psychiatrist based in London's Harley Street, analyzed the Duke of Sussex's behavior following his legal defeat over the loss of his UK police protection. He believes Harry's latest public remarks reveal a man struggling to let go, using media as his main line of communication with the royal family.

"With other avenues of communication apparently cut off  he claimed the King will not take his calls  this was quite possibly a bid to garner attention on the public stage in a manner they simply cannot ignore, quite possibly a form of emotional blackmail," Dr. Persaud told the UK Express.

A Pattern of Public Appeals

The psychiatrist noted Harry appears to be psychologically "stuck," repeating the same narrative in interviews despite multiple legal defeats over the same issue.

"He appeared psychologically stuck, so convinced of the logic and morality of his position that he couldn't seem to grasp that, even if he is right, he is still not getting what he wants," Dr. Persaud said, adding that unresolved trauma over the death of Princess Diana may be fueling Harry's ongoing push for security and justice.

Dr. Persaud continued, "Yet reacting to this latest legal disappointment by throwing fresh grenades seems like a hasty, ill-thought-out tactic, and one which will certainly not serve to soften differences between the Duke and Palace."

He concluded, "He appears to be in difficulty and, I would suggest respectfully, needs help to move on and really start a process of rapprochement with his family. Sadly this is unlikely to happen though the prism of another angry media interview showing his apparently trapped mindset."

'Life Is Precious': Harry Speaks Out

In his BBC interview, Harry said he hoped for a reconciliation with his family and expressed concern over his father, King Charles', health.

"I would love reconciliation with my family. There's no point in continuing to fight anymore," he said. "Life is precious. I don't know how much longer my father has. He won't speak to me because of this security stuff, but it would be nice to reconcile."

The Duke also suggested King Charles holds the key to resolving the security issue, though the Palace maintains that the matter is handled independently.

"There is a lot of control and ability in my father's hands," Harry said. "Ultimately, this whole thing could be resolved through him. Not necessarily by intervening, but by stepping aside, allowing the experts to do what is necessary."

Criticism From Inside the Palace

Despite Harry's apparent desire to repair relationships, sources within the Palace were left stunned by his remarks. His comment on his father's health, in particular, was seen as crossing a line.

"For a son who claims to want a family reconciliation, it's certainly a very curious way to build bridges or offer olive branches," one royal insider told ITV News. "His beloved grandmother would have been truly horrified. The King is a kind man with a warm heart and quite enough on his plate to deal with, without all this from his son."

Another source told the Sunday Telegraph that Harry's interview served as another example of his disregard for privacy. "There is nothing that can be trusted to remain private," the source said. "As for there being no contact, well, he has just proven why, yet again."

Though Harry insists he wants peace, many within the royal circle believe his latest comments will only widen the rift, not heal it.
The latest addition to Sean "Diddy" Combs' star-studded legal defense team, Nicole Westmoreland, is reportedly a rape survivor, claiming she was sexually assaulted at 19 while looking into a business opportunity in the music business.

Westmoreland, who officially came on as the rapper's attorney this week, says the traumatic incident happened in 2001 when she was working for a business that helped people get their suspended driver's licenses back, according to the Bloomfield-based attorney.

Per TMZ, Bryan Williamsbetter known as Birdman and the then-vice president of Cash Money Recordsapproached her alongside a man named "Stone" and invited her to deliver a sales pitch at Patchwerk Recording Studio in Atlanta.

She later came back to the studio with three female friends one night when the club was packed, Westmoreland said. It was there that she encountered Alfred Cleveland, reportedly a friend of Ronald "Slim" Williams, Bryan's brother, and then-president of Cash Money Records.

Recalling the trip, Westmoreland said that at one point, she excused herself to use the restroom, and Cleveland offered to show her where it was. When they were alone, she said he pushed her into the bathroom and raped her. She added that during the attack, a man arrived at the door, and Cleveland told him to keep watch. She also claimed that Cleveland attempted to sell her to the other man, who refused after she begged him not to.

Westmoreland said she reported the incident despite being threatened with calling the police. Cleveland was eventually arrested and charged. He pleaded guilty to aggravated assault with intent to rape.

Now a well-established lawyer, Westmoreland is among those on Diddy's dream team of flashy defense attorneys representing the embattled music mogul ahead of a federal trial on charges of sex trafficking and racketeering. Her actual violent history adds a strange twist and a complex emotional layer to the high-profile legal showdown.

Diddy was on the hunt to find a black woman lawyer to help him win his case.



Well Today! He found one !

Nicole Westmoreland



But plot TWIST!!!!!



Shes a victim of SA!! And her perpetrator was arrested & pled guilty !! #DiddyTrial pic.twitter.com/kNxQGvcXzj  she_dreadzme (@She_DreadzMe) May 7, 2025

Legal Heavyweights Form Star Defense Lineup

Westmoreland is part of a defense roster that features veterans like Marc Agnifilo, Teny Geragos, Brian Steel, Alexandra Shapiro, and Xavier R. Donaldson.

Agnifilo has also represented former International Monetary Fund chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn in a rape case that was dismissed, and Keith Raniere of the NXIVM sex cult.

Steel had recently represented rapper Young Thug in a high-stakes RICO trial in Georgia.

Shapiro, a former clerk to Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, specializes in white-collar defense and recently defended FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried.

Donaldson, another Howard University graduate who came up through the Bronx district attorney's office, is completing the team.
Wednesday, May 7, 2025

As President Trump is finding out, trying to negotiate with Vladimir Putin is pretty much a waste of time. The Russian president has repeatedly said in recent weeks that the root causes of the war in Ukraine will have to be addressed before Russia would agree to the U.S. proposal for a ceasefire. Several pundits have observed that by root causes, Putin is referring to the NATO expansion that brought several Eastern European countries into the alliance in the last couple of decades.

NATO is a defensive alliance. Article 5 of the NATO Treaty says, in part: The Parties agree that an armed attack against one or more of them in Europe or North America shall be considered an attack against them all and consequently they agree that, if such an armed attack occurs, each of them will assist the Party or Parties so attacked. This security umbrella is what attracted all of those new member nations, which had been satellite states of the former Soviet Union, to the alliance. What they were running away from is Russias centuries-old habit of constantly attacking smaller nations in its proximate neighborhood and subjugating their peoples.

There are many people outside of Russia who parrot the NATO-expansion nonsense that Putin has been peddling. These know-it-alls are mostly found in the Global South, but there is a good number here in the West as well. They should be asked to explain why they think taking prudent measures to protect oneself from an abusive relationship is such a bad idea, as they make it sound.

In the civilized world, if a woman marries a man who later turns out to be a monster, most people would advise her to divorce him. A wife who ignores that counsel and stays in the abusive relationship usually attracts some kind of social condemnation. So why do so many people see folly, rather than wisdom, in the decisions to join NATO by countries like Bulgaria, The Czech Republic, Slovakia, Romania, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania? Actually, those nations didnt even enter into those romantic relationships with Russia voluntarily. It is the height of arrogance for people who are located thousands of miles away, far removed from the Russian menace, to think that they know what is best for those who live in that dangerous neighborhood.

This recent Washington Post article highlights the constant sense of trepidation that Russias neighbors live with. Poland is reportedly constructing a physical barrier along its borders with Russia and Belarus, Russias staunch ally. The barricade is described as a steel wall secured by razor wire and backed by a deep anti-tank ditch, with 650 feet of anti-tank obstacles and minefields, followed by trenches from which Polish and NATO forces could engage an advancing enemy. There is also a man-made swamp and drainage ditch, in turn followed by military bunkers with gun turrets and underground shelters where civilians could seek safety in the event of hostilities. The author goes on to describe several other aspects of the intricate design.

That is an awful lot of energy and resources that a country has to spend to protect itself from a belligerent neighbor. Poland is actually a NATO member, but it feels the need to add all those extra layers of protection just to ensure its existence. Shouldnt those who blame Ukraine for provoking the war with Russia rather ask themselves what they would do today if they were Ukrainian nationals living in Kyiv, Kharkiv or elsewhere in the country? Why dont they ever have anything to say about the character and violence of the abusive husband? Do they simply enjoy victim-blaming?

Indeed, there was a time when the law of the jungle determined the fate of much of humanity. But those days were supposed to be long gone. When the current rules-based world order was established 80 years ago, it became unacceptable for the mighty to prey upon the weak. Apparently, there are still some people, and their armies of enablers, who pine for the barbaric old days.

Putin apologists clutch at straws to justify their zany arguments. President Trumps recent talk about annexing Canada and acquiring Greenland, by use of military force if necessary, must be a gift to them. What they need to know, however, is that unlike Russians, most Americans would not sit idly by and allow their president to order an unprovoked armed attack on a neighboring country. Even if he were to somehow manage to carry out that crazy idea, the Canadians and Greenlanders would have every right in the world to fight back, just as the Ukrainians are doing.

After reading about all those things that Poland is having to do just to preserve its sovereignty and get on with its life, I began to think about Mexico. Like Ukraine and all the other countries that are constantly nervous about their monstrous neighbor, Mexico shares a long border with a powerful, nuclear-armed nation. But Mexicans dont have sleepless nights because of that. Instead, over the last several decades, they have had the peace of mind to concentrate their energies on building one of the most dynamic economies in the world today. Throughout that time, I havent heard a word from any Mexican about a need for their country to seek membership in NATO, or some other military alliance, in order not to live in perpetual fear.

Next time some journalist gets the opportunity, they should ask Putin to share his thoughts about why so many people in his neighborhood live in such fear of Russia. The people who mindlessly regurgitate his NATO-expansion nonsense should be asked to answer the same question.
By John Murawski, RealClearInvestigations

May 7, 2025

AUSTIN, Texas  Lacking three crucial components  students, faculty, and facilities  the two educational experiments proposed in this state capital sounded like moonshots just a few years ago.

Today, the School of Civic Leadership at the University of Texas and a feisty startup calling itself the University of Austin are not just up and running, but helping lead the movement to revive classical liberal education across the country.

Now in their second semesters, the two unrelated schools  one public, one private  offer a mix of courses emphasizing political theory, economics, philosophy, and canonical texts that appeal to big-time donors eager to fund traditional academic subjects that have fallen into neglect, or even disdain, in the ivory tower. A big part of their strategy relies on a naked grab for the academic market share by being perceived as more relevant, more exciting, and more consequential.

Were a throwback to an older model that sees serious engagement with the great debates of the Western tradition as the best possible preparation for leadership, said Antonio Sosa, a professor at UT-Austins School of Civic Leadership. Were not interested in deconstructing Americas founding and the West; were not focused on race and gender.

The reform efforts underway in Austin are now approaching a major milestone: the end of their first academic year, with further expansion around the corner. Commonly known by their acronyms, SCL will be launching a Civics Honors major with about 100 students this coming fall, while UATX will be adding a second freshman cohort of about 100 students as the current batch advances to its second year.

Both are part of a national academic civics movement to create viable alternatives to higher ed trends that their backers deem intellectually bankrupt and moral dead ends: the penchant for DEI and social justice activism, training students in narrow careerism or jobism, and incentivizing the faculty fetish for fads and hyper-specialization.

Over the past quarter-century, more than 100 academic civics initiatives have arisen, emphasizing such themes as the Great Books, the Western canon, free markets, and individual liberty. In the latest incarnation of this trend, the University of Austin is comparable, at least superficially, to niche, independent colleges like Hillsdale, Ralston, St. Johns (Maryland), and Deep Springs that emphasize intellectual foundations and distinctive academic cultures. UATXs board of advisers is a whos who of public intellectuals, most of whom require no introductions in academic circles: Richard Dawkins, Jonathan Haidt, Robert George, Glenn Loury, Harvey Mansfield, Deirdre McCloskey, Nadine Strossen, Larry Summers, Andrew Young, among others.

UT-Austins program is part of a new wave backed by conservative donors, trustees, and lawmakers that includes 13 autonomous civics schools established at eight public universities  including five in Ohio  that have their own deans, their own majors, and, in some cases, their own Ph.D. programs. The School of Civic Leadership includes its own think tank, The Civitas Institute, which is modeled on Stanfords Hoover Institution; its roster of fellows includes John Yoo, a lawyer who served in the George W. Bush administration; Jenna Silber Storey, an American Enterprise Institute fellow who specializes in the civics movement; Arthur C. Brooks, former AEI president and Harvard scholar of leadership and happiness; and Vincent Phillip Munoz, a University of Notre Dame legal scholar and well-known constitutional originalist.

UATX President Pano Kanelos, who compares the creation of the University of Austin to Platos founding of the Academy in Athens in 387 BC, predicts that were growing a university thatll be around for centuries. But observers note that these and other civic education reform efforts are some years away from achieving the movements ultimate goal: producing a permanent infrastructure with a pipeline of scholars to lead and populate similar programs across the country. In the coming years, they must deliver on their long-term promises to their backers that they can attract competitive students, produce consequential scholarship, place graduates in solid careers, and grow their programs into lasting institutions.

Its no coincidence that both are located in Austin, a vibrant college town and state capital known for its music festivals, its Silicon Hills tech hub, and its countercultural motto: Keep Austin Weird. The Austin-American Statesman newspaper describes the city's famed South By Southwest Festival (a.k.a. SXSW) as "a giant, caffeine-and-booze-fueled playground for creatives."

With conservative intellectuals creating their own anti-establishment ethos, Austin has also become home to the global headquarters of Elon Musks EV venture, Tesla, and the home of the dissident political podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience. In a nod to these counter-cultural landmarks, an earlier iteration of UATXs FAQs page used to proclaim: If its good enough for Elon Musk and Joe Rogan, its good enough for us.
Cellphone bans in schools are all the rage. Recently, New York became the fourth state to embark on one, as part of a budget deal for the coming school year. For many adults, the bans make intuitive sense: Who wants kids distracted on their phones while the teacher is teaching? Maybe getting rid of them could even reduce bullying or improve youth mental health? Phone Free New York founder Raj Goyle, while speaking of New Yorks prospective ban, claimed, If you look at the data in schools that have one ... test scores rise, bullying decreases, depression decreases. But is that true?

Given acclamations from the schools that have implemented them, youd think so. Orange County schools in Florida made headlines for being one of the first and most restrictive districts to implement a ban on cellphones. Florida passed a statewide ban in 2023, but Orange County, with Orlando as its seat, went further, banning phones for the entire school day, not just during classes.

Within months of Orange County's ban taking effect, educators claimed to see remarkable change, including fewer fights and better focus in class. But its rare to see any intervention have such a rapid effect. To examine whether school data supported these claims, I put in a public records request for the hard numbers.

The request was for numbers on serious bullying incidents, overall high school and middle school grade point averages, student mental health referrals, and suspensions due to cellphone use.

Data was provided by the districts manager of public records. The school district had data only on the most serious bullying incidents, which rose sharply during the year of the ban, from 2 to 12. Certainly, many more minor bullying incidents are missed in this data, but the schools apparently have no data to suggest they decreased. Unfortunately, the district did not have data on assaults, so it is unclear which data support the districts public statements about fewer fights. Grade-point averages largely remained static (high school GPA improved slightly, going from 2.82 to 2.95, whereas middle school GPA barely budged from 2.84 to 2.88).

But mental health referrals increased rather than decreased. The number of screenings for mental health increased by one hundred, whereas referrals increased by nearly 1500. Disciplinary offenses involving phones increased, perhaps not surprisingly, but  most worrying  this included 662 reported suspensions. Suspensions are well known to be harmful to youth, reducing academic engagement, and are even associated with adult arrests.

Thus, taken together, these statistics suggest outcomes that are mainly static or negative, including real harm in the form of suspensions. The numbers contrast with the rosy picture portrayed by school officials.

A public-records comparison of Orange Countys ban with Rhode Islands Providence County turned up similar numbers, with data here provided by City of Providence Public Records. Over the same two-year period, bullying got worse, GPAs remained static, mental health referrals increased, as did cellphone discipline incidents. A caveat is that Providence County school authorities could not pinpoint the start of the ban, so this shouldnt be considered as neat a pre/post comparison as the internal comparison for Orange County alone.

Schools in Cranston, R.I, which do not have a cellphone ban, and where some schools encourage cellphone use in education, appeared to be a better comparison with Orange County. Records produced by Norma Cole, the assistant superintendent, showed the outcomes were more mixed. Bullying increased, as with the other schools. High school GPAs actually increased (an apparent reflection of the schools encouragment of cellphone use in education) though middle school GPAs decreased slightly. There were more mental health referrals, but fewer students actually received services. Overall, Cranston schools had somewhat better outcomes.

This is just descriptive data taken from a small number of schools. From such data, its not possible to say that cellphone policies are increasing bullying or mental health issues. However, the figures do warn us that increased suspensions could cause harm. We can also see tantalizing clues that cellphone bans, at very least, do not appear to help, though its worth noting cellphones may have some value in emergencies such as shootings or fires. Broad claims of success often made by teachers and school administrators dont match the data.

A recent study in Britain found that cellphone bans in schools, including the most restrictive variety, do not improve student grades, behavior, or mental health. A recently published research review from Queensland University of Technology likewise concluded that current evidence is unable to support the effectiveness of cellphone bans. One recent Florida study found that kids with smartphones are actually healthier than those without, albeit teaching kids how to use them wisely is also important.

As noted two years ago in RealClearPolitics, the evidence linking new technology and smartphones to outcomes such as mental health is weak, so the failure of cellphone bans should not be a surprise. The current public records request data fits those other observations. The cellphone ban debate is a reminder that, often, what we think should be helpful to kids and what actually is helpful can be two very different things. The research review from the Queensland University of Technology ultimately concluded, Our consolidated findings showed little to no conclusive evidence that one-size-fits-all mobile phone bans in schools resulted in improved academic outcomes, mental health and wellbeing and reduced cyberbullying and recommended media/digital literacy instead to help youth cultivate their online experiences.

Christopher J. Ferguson is a professor of psychology at Stetson University in Florida and author of "Catastrophe! The Psychology of Why Good People Make Bad Situations Worse."
A bill to phase out the use of Styrofoam food containers  with some exceptions  was vetoed by Gov. Greg Gianforte.

Ultimately, whether to use Styrofoam for take-out orders, packaging leftovers, or providing pre-packaged foods should be a matter for a restaurant or a consumer to decide  not the state, reads a May 2 letter from Gianforte to the speakers of the House and Senate. The free enterprise system works. We should let it work, not have the heavy hand of big government unnecessarily meddle with it.

The bill, HB 477, had the support of Sen. Shelley Vance (R-SD 34), who represents Belgrade, and was opposed by local House members Caleb Hinkle (R-HD 68), Jedediah Hinkle (R-HD 67), and Jane Gillette (R-HD 77).

The bill sought to prohibit the use of expanded polystyrene foam, also called Styrofoam, in restaurants or food establishments beginning Jan. 1, 2028. Beginning Jan. 1, 2029, a restaurant, food establishment, resort, or hotel in the state would have been banned from serving or packaging prepared food in polystyrene foam containers, and also would have been banned from providing polystyrene foam containers for use with food or beverages. Beginning on Jan. 1, 2030, a food packager in the state would be prohibited from packaging bakery products or other prepared food in polystyrene foam containers.

The rationale for these proposed bans was that expanded polystyrene foam, commonly known as Styrofoam, is a material that causes environmental harm and poses a threat to fish and wildlife, according to the bill. Styrofoam also 1) takes up space in landfills and contributes to the need for costly expansions borne by taxpayers, and 2) threatens the right of each Montanan to a clean and healthful environment, according to the bill.

Gianforte wrote that he was surprised to have received HB 477 given that it is textbook government overreach. The legislation would increase costs for restaurants and consumers, which should be avoided given the affordability crisis Montanans and all Americans face, he wrote.

According to estimates, nearly 7,500 Montana establishments would be hit by this mandate and face higher costs, he wrote.

The proposed ban would have required a new Montana Department of Environmental Quality program that would cost taxpayers about $300,000 over the next four years, according to Gianforte.

Id prefer to keep government limited, not grow it unnecessarily, he wrote.

"Deep blue, progressive states such as Oregon, Washington, California, and New York, among others, have banned Styrofoam containers and are known for high taxes, high spending, and hyper-regulation, according to Gianforte. Montana should remain a sanctuary for freedom and free enterprise, he wrote.

The bill would have allowed restaurants, food establishments, resorts, hotels, or food packagers to ask the Montana Department of Environmental Quality for exemptions. The department could have granted exemptions if the department found there were no acceptable alternatives to the use of expanded polystyrene foam and also found that disallowing the Styrofoam would cause undue hardship.

Exceptions also would have been granted to a restaurant, food establishment, resort, hotel, or food packager in the state if the applicant intended to use expanded polystyrene foam for purposes relating to transportation, construction, health, or safety and there were no alternatives, according to the bill.

Gianforte also objected that HB 477 was inconsistent because it didnt target all industries that use Styrofoam.

On an unrelated but personal note, I don't mind Styrofoam containers, Gianforte wrote. They're lightweight and insulate well, keeping hot food hot and cold food cold. I'll gladly take a cup of coffee and a Styrofoam cup.

The bill passed by a 56-41 vote in the House on March 25 with the support of all Democratic House members (except two who were absent) and some Republican House members.

The bill passed by a 26-22 vote in the Senate on April 14 with the support of all Democratic senators and some Republican senators.
Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup.
NELSONVILLE, Ohio  The Wayne National Forest has closed Timbre Ridge Lake in Lawrence County, Ohio, for public safety after drawing down the pool to assess conditions at the dam.

Recent heavy rainfall created a slump, or a portion of earth that moves downslope, on the face of the dam. Since April 11, the forest service has drawn down the dam pool by approximately 48 inches to reach the lowest point of the slump. This will allow personnel to assess conditions and determine necessary repairs.

The closure order extends 50 feet from the lakes shoreline or ordinary high water mark. The dam, boat ramp and dock are also closed. The closure area will be marked with a gate at the lower parking area off Palestine Church-Yarico Road. The closure order will be valid until lifted by the Forest Supervisor.

Currently, there are no impacts on public safety and wildlife. The forest service continues to monitor the structure daily with a local Incident Management Team.

As part of the Timbre Ridge Dam Emergency Action Plan procedures, the Wayne National Forest continues to collaborate with local elected officials and emergency response organizations about the issues of concern at the Timbre Ridge Lake Dam. The forest service is also coordinating with local emergency management agencies to ensure that community members remain aware and safe as the Incident Management Team makes all efforts to mitigate the situation. The forest service will inform and support local authorities if changes occur at the facility so they can notify the public promptly.

The full closure order and map will be available shortly on the forest services website at tinyurl.com/ybnakj2t.

The forest service will provide updates as they become available on its Facebook page at facebook.com/waynenationalforest.

For questions about the dam or the closure order, contact Wayne National Forest Public Affairs at 740-823-0841. For questions about emergency notifications and procedures, contact Lawrence County Emergency Management at 740-533-4375, Aid Township Volunteer Fire Department at 740-643-2198 or Aid Township Volunteer Fire Department Chief Matt Jenkins at 740-237-2011.
Farmers will benefit from a new 50m grant programme aimed at improving access to innovative technology designed to enhance productivity and profitability.

The England-only grants aim to support the adoption of various cutting-edge technologies to enable farmers to cut costs while improving efficiency and sustainability.

They will cover the cost of technology from seed-planting robots and pesticide spreaders, to slurry separator systems that lower dependency on expensive fertilisers.

A core element of Defra's funding is the 46.7 million Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF), which will provide grants of up to 25,000 each.

These grants will support farmers in purchasing day-to-day equipment designed to boost productivity, manage slurry, and improve animal health and welfare.

In addition to the FETF, the government confirmed today (7 May) that it will launch a 5 million Investor Partnerships programme.

This initiative will combine public grant funding with private investment, aiming to bring cutting-edge tech to market more quickly and give farmers access to new innovations.

A successful pilot programme has already demonstrated the potential benefits of the grants, including reducing reliance on seasonal labour through the introduction of high-yield broccoli harvesters.

Another project saw the acceleration of crop growth without the need for chemicals by employing new seed cleaning technologies.

Farming minister Daniel Zeichner said: These grants will help provide our farmers with the equipment necessary to adapt, compete, and grow no matter what challenges lie ahead.

"Equipment and technology help drive farming forward, and we will work with investors to fund more resilient, sustainable farms, boosting profitability, productivity and food security."

Todays announcement builds on previous funding, including 45.6 million announced last month to support the development of new inventions and technologies.
A new report challenges the widespread perception that meat and dairy from cattle and sheep are inherently harmful to the environment and public health.

Instead, the Sustainable Food Trust's (SFT) report argues that animals reared on grass through regenerative methods can play a crucial role in addressing climate change.

Entitled 'Grazing Livestock: Its not the cow but the how' [PDF], the charity highlights the significant differences between industrial, grain-fed systems and nature-based, pasture-fed livestock systems.

It emphasises that livestock reared without synthetic fertilisers or chemicals, on pasture they are naturally adapted to, contributes to soil health, biodiversity and rural economies while providing nutrient-rich food.

Lord Deben, former chair of the UK Climate Change Committee, welcomed the report: "[It] could help to resolve some of the not inconsiderable public confusion about the impact on climate change of ruminant animals in general and cows in particular.

"This confusion has led to a widespread view that all cattle are unsustainable, but it doesnt have to be this way  providing we farm and eat differently.

The report presents a detailed contrast between industrial livestock production and lower-yielding but more sustainable regenerative systems.

SFT modelling suggests that pasture-based cattle and sheep could provide significant proportions of key nutrients, such as up to 98% of the UKs vitamin B12 needs and 30% of its protein, without relying on global supply chains or high chemical inputs.

Patrick Holden, CEO of the charity said: This report clearly demonstrates the need to differentiate between livestock that are part of the problem and those that are an essential part of the solution. In other words, its not the cow, its the how.

He added that the debate over whether the public should eat meat and dairy had become unnecessarily polarised.

"People have been led to believe that all meat is bad, but what really matters is how the food has been produced  and whether that farming system supports or undermines the health of people and the planet.

While critics often cite the greenhouse gas emissions from livestock, the report calls for a more holistic assessmentone that includes the carbon-sequestering potential of well-managed grasslands and broader sustainability benefits.

In his foreword, Lord Deben wrote in the report: I have had to face up to the negative impacts of livestock on greenhouse gas emissions, including those from intensively managed poultry, pigs and cattle.

"What few understand is that there is a need to differentiate between those livestock systems which are part of the problem in terms of emissions, and those which, under the correct management, are potentially part of the solution.
NFU Scotland has responded to the 202526 Programme for Government by calling for immediate action to turn policy promises into tangible support for farmers.

The union has welcomed the Scottish government's reaffirmation of investment in rural support, food production and environmental initiatives.

However, it stressed that the time for repeating familiar commitments has passed and called for clear timelines and a farmer-led approach to delivery.

Although the First Ministers announcement contained no new policy revelations for agriculture, NFU Scotland acknowledged the commitment to publishing the long-anticipated Rural Support Plan.

The plan is expected to outline reforms to direct support, along with updates on food processing investment, crofting law reform, and the Future Farming Investment Scheme, which includes capital grants for new entrants.

NFU Scotland President Andrew Connon said farmers and crofters across the country "now need to see delivery, not delay".

"Reformed direct support must be the governments urgent priority - we need clarity on how schemes will work and when theyll apply," he said.

"Without certainty, theres no confidence to plan or invest. With it, we can deliver for food production, climate, nature and the rural communities that depend on active farming and crofting.

Mr Connon warned that these measures must be shaped by the experiences of working farmers, and supported by a regulatory environment that fosters economic viability, not just compliance.

The Programme also restated plans for increased woodland and peatland restoration, continued rounds of the Nature Restoration Fund, and the introduction of new biodiversity baseline requirements.

NFU Scotland reiterated that while environmental action is essential, it must sit alongside food production rather than be seen as an alternative.

Scottish farmers are already playing a central role in climate and biodiversity delivery, added Mr Connon.

But this must be recognised as part of a working rural economy. Future support schemes must continue to value food production alongside environmental outcomes  not trade one off against the other.

NFU Scotland also noted commitments to improving land ownership transparency and welcomed the focus on agri-food investment and export support, describing them as vital elements for a thriving rural economy.

Government must now match that readiness with clear timelines, streamlined funding access, and practical tools that support real businesses," Mr Connon concluded.

"NFU Scotland stands ready to work with Ministers and officials to get this right."
A new petition calls for a 12-month amnesty on upcoming changes to agricultural property relief, aimed at giving farmers time to adjust before the reforms roll out.

The proposal seeks to allow land and business assets to be transferred to named individuals without immediate tax penalties.

This would help agricultural businesses prepare for what rural campaigners warn could be financially and emotionally damaging changes.

The call is the focus of a new petition on the UK Parliaments website, started by Merseyside farmer and industry campaigner Olly Harrison.

It follows concerns over inheritance tax changes announced in the autumn budget last October, which include a new 1m allowance on assets qualifying for 100% APR.

Once that threshold is reached, relief will drop to 50% on the remaining value of eligible agricultural and business property.

"We think it would remove what is, in our view, the negative human impact of the policy changes in the autumn budget 2024," the petition states.

"We believe the tax change proposals could be creating torment for farming families and that some ageing farmers could be feeling a burden to their successors.

It argues that a one-year grace period would allow those impacted to organise their affairs and give ministers time to reflect on what they describe as a devastating policy proposal.

Supporters say the amnesty would offer clarity and a fairer transition for farmers currently grappling with uncertainty, as well as protect the future viability of family-run agricultural businesses.

The petition is now open for signatures, with rural communities across the UK urging the government to support a responsible path forward.
The United Kingdom and India on Tuesday announced the conclusion of a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) aimed at deepening economic ties. This FTA is the most comprehensive trade deal India has ever entered. A key outcome is tariff elimination on 99 per cent of Indian exports to the UK, covering nearly 100 per cent of Indias export value. This move opens massive opportunities for Indias labour-intensive sectorsnotably textiles and apparelby removing duties that were previously as high as 12-16 per cent on these goods. In turn, India will slash tariffs on 90 per cent of British products (with 85 per cent of tariff lines becoming duty-free within 10 years), which includes reducing or eliminating duties on textiles, clothing, and related inputs.

Why focus on textiles and apparel?

The UKIndia FTA eliminates tariffs on nearly all Indian textile and apparel exports to the UK, boosting competitiveness, especially for SMEs. Exports are projected to nearly double by 2030, led by garments, followed by home and technical textiles. The deal opens doors for deeper trade, innovation, and investment across both nations' textile ecosystems.

This sector is economically crucial for both nations. In India, textiles and garments are the second-largest employer after agriculture, providing over 45 million jobs and contributing significantly to export earnings. The UK, on the other hand, is one of the worlds largest import markets for apparel (about $19-20 billion annually) and British retailers source heavily from India. The FTAs provisionsfrom tariff cuts to improved market access and streamlined regulationsare set to reshape the bilateral trade in textiles and apparel. Below, we analyse the expected impacts, projections for the next 5+ years, segment-wise outcomes, key players, and strategic steps for businesses to capitalise on the FTA.

Tariff changes under the FTA for textiles & apparel

Under the UK-India FTA, all UK import duties on Indian textiles and apparelpreviously up to 12 per cent for garments and 16 per cent for some footwear and carpetswill be eliminated immediately, enhancing Indian exporters competitiveness. In return, India will gradually reduce its 10-20 per cent import duties on UK-origin textiles and apparel, enabling easier access for UK-made fabrics, technical textiles, and high-end garments.

The agreement also includes mutual recognition of standards and streamlined customs procedures, minimising non-tariff barriers. These measures will lower compliance costs and reduce delivery delays, especially benefiting SMEs in the fashion sector. The result is near free trade in textiles between the two countries, subject to rules-of-origin compliance.

Impact on Indian textiles & apparel exports to the UK

The UK-India FTA is set to significantly boost Indias textile and apparel exports to the UK by eliminating tariffs that previously reached up to 12 per cent. This levels the playing field against duty-free competitors like Bangladesh, helping Indian products become more price competitive. In 2023, Indias exports to the UK stood at $1.2 billion (~6 per cent market share), with apparel shipments already rising ~20 per cent year-on-year by late 2024.

Industry experts forecast a surge in UK orders for Indian garments, home linens, and made ups over the next 1-2 years. AEPC Chairman Sudhir Sekhri called the deal a game changer, predicting stronger buyer-supplier ties with UK brands. Overall, Indias enhanced price competitiveness and long-term market access are expected to accelerate its market share growth in the UK.

Table1: Indias Textile & Apparel Exports to UK  Baseline vs. Potential Growth

Sources: Ministry of Commerce & Industry and AEPC, Fibre2Fashion.com

(Projected values are indicative, assuming the UK import market size remains around $20-25 billion by 2030.)

Indias textile and apparel exports to the UK are expected to nearly double by 2030, aligning with the broader objective of doubling bilateral trade by the end of the decade. The primary growth drivers will be apparelIndias largest export segmentfollowed by home textiles and fabrics, with detailed segmental impacts discussed.

Importantly, duty-free access not only boosts export volumes but also improves margins. Indian exporters gain a ~10 per cent cost advantage, allowing them to either lower prices to stay competitive or increase profit per unit, or both. This is particularly significant for Indias numerous SME exporters, who often operate on narrow margins. The FTA is also likely to catalyse fresh investment across the textile value chain, including factory expansions and capacity upgrades, to meet rising demand from the UK market.

Segment-wise impact analysis

Different segments within the textile and apparel sector will experience the FTAs impact in distinct ways. Below is a breakdown by key segment:

Table 2: Indias competitors and their tariff rates for the top 10 most imported textile products in the UK before FTA

Source: F2F Analysis

Garments and apparel

Clothing (garments) is the cornerstone of Indias textile exports to the UK and stands to gain the most from the FTA. This includes ready-made garments (RMG) for men, women, and childrensuch as shirts, dresses, suits, and trousers, as well as fashion accessories.

Tariff Savings and Price Competitiveness: With the elimination of UK import duties (previously 8-12 per cent), Indian garments become significantly more price competitive. For example, a cotton shirt previously costing a UK buyer 5 (including tariff) could now cost ~4.50, enhancing the attractiveness of Indian suppliers. This is a major boost for key manufacturing hubs like Tiruppur (knitwear) and Delhi-NCR (wovens), which already supply substantial volumes to European markets.

Growth in Export Volumes and Market Share: Indian apparel exports to the UK, which rose 9.4 per cent between April and October 2024, are expected to accelerate further. India currently holds around 6 per cent of the UK apparel import market, but with tariff-free access, this share could climb to 10 per cent or more. This would involve gaining ground against top suppliers like China (~21 per cent) and Bangladesh (~18 per cent), supported by Indias diverse offerings in cotton wear, ethnic and occasion wear, and fast fashion.

Expanded Product Range and Value Addition: Zero-duty access may encourage Indian exporters to broaden their product portfolios, including higher-end and more value-added garments. Expect to see increased exports of pieces featuring traditional embroidery, handcrafted details, or sustainable materials. Fast fashion retailers in the UK may also turn to Indian suppliers for quick, affordable production. Provisions for technology transfer under the FTA could further enhance product quality and innovation.

UK Apparel Imports into India: While India remains the dominant garment exporter in this bilateral trade, reduced duties could boost UK apparel sales in Indiaparticularly luxury and designer wear. British high-street and premium brands may become more accessible and affordable for Indian consumers, creating a modest but notable two-way apparel trade.

In short, the FTA represents a transformative opportunity for Indias garment sector. It enhances market access, improves competitiveness, and supports product diversification. UK retailers benefit from a reliable and now lower-cost sourcing partner, while consumers in both countries enjoy wider choices and better prices.

Home textiles and made ups

The home textiles and furnishings segmentwhich includes bed linens, towels, curtains, cushion covers, blankets, rugs, and carpetsis another stronghold of Indias exports and stands to benefit from the UK-India FTA.

Tariff Elimination and Price Advantage: Previously subject to UK import duties of around 8-10 per cent (e.g. cotton bedsheets under HS 6302, towels under 6302/6307), home textile products from India will now enter the UK duty-free. This provides a major boost to leading exporters such as Welspun India, Trident, and Bombay Dyeing, many of whom already supply major UK retailers and hospitality chains. The removal of tariffs improves price competitiveness, paving the way for larger, long-term orders and enhanced margins.

Market Expansion Potential: The UKs home fashion and interior market is substantial, with growing demand for quality cotton-based productsan area where India excels. Cost savings under the FTA are likely to help Indian suppliers deepen their presence in UK retail and institutional sectors such as hotels and hospitals. While volume growth may not match the apparel segment, steady expansion is expected. For instance, Indias ~$300 million in home textile exports to the UK could rise to ~$400-500 million in the medium term, driven by increased share in mid-to-premium segments.

Carpets and Floor Coverings: Indian carpet exportsincluding high-end handmade rugs and machine-made variantswill benefit significantly as UK duties (previously 4-8 per cent) are scrapped. The FTA specifically identifies carpets as a priority sector. This supports the growth of Indias artisanal and SME-based exporters, especially in traditional carpet hubs. While India may import some niche wool carpets from the UK, outbound trade will dominate.

Design Partnerships and Branding: With trade barriers removed, there is strong potential for collaboration between UK home decor brands and Indian manufacturers on exclusive collections. Indian firms may also invest in UK distribution infrastructure, such as warehouses or brand partnerships, to streamline direct-to-retail models and expand market reach.

In conclusion the FTA enhances Indias competitiveness in the UKs home furnishings market, enabling deeper penetration into retail and hospitality channels. UK consumers can expect greater availability of Indian-made productsespecially high-quality cotton towels, bedsheets, and carpetsat better prices, while Indian exporters gain smoother market access and scope for long-term growth.

Technical textiles and specialised segments

Technical textilesengineered for specific functional uses such as industrial, medical, automotive, protective, and geotechnical applicationsrepresent a high-potential growth area for both India and the UK. The UK-India FTA is expected to accelerate trade and collaboration in this specialised segment.

Boost to Indian Technical Textile Exports: Indias technical textile industry, though still emerging, is growing steadily with strong government support. Duty-free access to the UK allows Indian firms to tap into a sophisticated market with lower entry costs. For example, Indian manufacturers of geotextiles can now competitively bid for UK infrastructure projects, while PPE suppliers can target UK industrial buyers more cost-effectively. Although export volumes may initially be modest, these are high-value products, and even incremental growth can have a significant impact. Importantly, the FTAs provisions for regulatory cooperation and mutual recognition of standards will help Indian exporters navigate complex compliance requirements in sectors like healthcare and construction.

Opportunities for UK Technical Textile Exports to India: The UK has advanced capabilities in technical textilesranging from smart fabrics and composites to specialty medical and automotive materials. Previously constrained by Indias tariffs, these products will now enjoy improved access to a rapidly growing Indian market. For example, UK firms can more competitively supply automotive textiles (e.g., airbags, seat fabrics), high-performance medical dressings, or filtration textiles. As Indias demand for such materials grows in sectors like automotive, healthcare, and infrastructure, UK suppliers can play a greater role. The FTA also supports investment flowsUK companies could establish manufacturing bases in India, leveraging Make in India incentives while accessing the Indian and wider FTA markets.

Defence and Safety Textiles: An important sub-segment is defence and safety textiles. With partial access to Indias government procurement under the FTA, UK companies producing fire-resistant uniforms, ballistic fabrics, or high-spec safety gear may find new opportunities in Indian defence tenders. Conversely, Indian producers of tactical gear, camouflage textiles, or field tents could gain traction in the UK market or through collaboration with UK firms.

In summary, while growth in technical textiles will be more gradual than in apparel or home furnishings, the FTA lays the groundwork for long-term collaboration. Reduced tariffs, mutual recognition of standards, and potential joint ventures will facilitate trade and investment. Indian firms can import advanced UK components, add value locally, and potentially re-export finished goods, strengthening both countries technical textile ecosystems.

Conclusion

The UKIndia Free Trade Agreement marks a transformative milestone for bilateral textile and apparel trade. By removing tariff barriers, it opens the door to expanded exports, deeper supply chain integration, and enhanced market access for both nations. Indian exporters now enjoy unprecedented entry into the UKone of the worlds top import marketswhile UK brands gain a competitive edge in Indias vast consumer landscape.

In the short term, the FTA is expected to drive a sharp rise in trade volumes: more Indian garments, home textiles, and technical fabrics in UK stores, and increased visibility of British fashion and specialty textiles in India. Projections suggest double-digit export growth, potential doubling of Indias UK apparel market share, and record highs in bilateral trade over the next 5-10 years.

Each segment stands to benefit uniquely:

Garments will see the sharpest growth, spurring investment and job creation in India.

Home textiles are set for steady expansion, enriching UK consumers choices.

Technical textiles will grow gradually, supported by regulatory alignment and joint innovation.

The FTA also levels the playing field for Indias SMEs, enabling them to compete globally through lower costs and improved access.

Going forward, success depends on how effectively businesses capitalise on this opportunitythrough strategic adaptation, compliance with quality standards, and collaborative partnerships. This agreement is more than a trade facilitation measure; it is a catalyst for long-term, inclusive growth.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (PN)
ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA / ACCESS Newswire / May 6, 2025 / Barton Gold Holdings Limited (ASX:BGD) (Barton or the Company) advises that the attached presentation has been released to the market.

A copy of this presentation can be accessed on the ASX website, the investor section of Barton's website, or directly by clicking here.

Authorised by the Managing Director of Barton Gold Holdings Limited.

For further information, please contact:

Alexander Scanlon

Managing Director

a.scanlon@bartongold.com.au

+61 425 226 649 Jade Cook

Company Secretary

cosec@bartongold.com.au

+61 8 9322 1587

About Barton Gold

Barton Gold is an ASX, OTCQB and Frankfurt Stock Exchange listed Australian gold developer targeting future gold production of 150,000ozpa with 1.7Moz Au & 3.1Moz Ag JORC Mineral Resources (64.0Mt @ 0.83 g/t Au), brownfield mines, and 100% ownership of the region's only gold mill in the renowned Gawler Craton of South Australia.*

Tarcoola Gold Project Fully permitted open pit mine with ~20koz Au within trucking distance of Barton's Central Gawler Mill

Historical goldfield with new high-grade gold-silver discovery in grades up to 83.6 g/t Au and 17,600 g/t Ag Tunkillia Gold Project 1.6Moz Au & 3.1Moz Ag JORC Mineral Resources

Optimised Scoping Study for competitive ~120kozpa gold and ~250kozpa silver bulk open pit operation Key Regional Infrastructure Region's only gold processing plant (650ktpa CIP)

Multiple camps / accommodation across projects

Competent Persons Statement & Previously Reported Information

The information in this announcement that relates to the historic Exploration Results and Mineral Resources as listed in the table below is based on, and fairly represents, information and supporting documentation prepared by the Competent Person whose name appears in the same row, who is an employee of or independent consultant to the Company and is a Member or Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM), Australian Institute of Geoscientists (AIG) or a Recognised Professional Organisation (RPO). Each person named in the table below has sufficient experience which is relevant to the style of mineralisation and types of deposits under consideration and to the activity which he has undertaken to quality as a Competent Person as defined in the JORC Code 2012 (JORC).

Activity Competent Person Membership Status Tarcoola Mineral Resource (Stockpiles) Dr Andrew Fowler (Consultant) AusIMM Member Tarcoola Mineral Resource (Perseverance Mine) Mr Ian Taylor (Consultant) AusIMM Fellow Tarcoola Exploration Results (until 15 Nov 2021) Mr Colin Skidmore (Consultant) AIG Member Tarcoola Exploration Results (after 15 Nov 2021) Mr Marc Twining (Employee) AusIMM Member Tunkillia Exploration Results (until 15 Nov 2021) Mr Colin Skidmore (Consultant) AIG Member Tunkillia Exploration Results (after 15 Nov 2021) Mr Marc Twining (Employee) AusIMM Member Tunkillia Mineral Resource Mr Ian Taylor (Consultant) AusIMM Fellow Challenger Mineral Resource Mr Dale Sims (Consultant) AusIMM / AIG Fellow / Member

The information relating to historic Exploration Results and Mineral Resources in this announcement is extracted from the Company's Prospectus dated 14 May 2021 or as otherwise noted in this announcement, available from the Company's website at www.bartongold.com.au or on the ASX website www.asx.com.au. The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the Exploration Results and Mineral Resource information included in previous announcements and, in the case of estimates of Mineral Resources, that all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates, and any production targets and forecast financial information derived from the production targets, continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Company confirms that the form and context in which the applicable Competent Persons' findings are presented have not been materially modified from the previous announcements.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This document may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "expect", "target" and "intend" and statements than an event or result "may", "will", "should", "would", "could", or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. Forward-looking information is subject to business, legal and economic risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among other things, risks relating to property interests, the global economic climate, commodity prices, sovereign and legal risks, and environmental risks. Forward-looking statements are based upon estimates and opinions at the date the statements are made. Barton undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements for events or circumstances that occur subsequent to such dates or to update or keep current any of the information contained herein. Any estimates or projections as to events that may occur in the future (including projections of revenue, expense, net income and performance) are based upon the best judgment of Barton from information available as of the date of this document. There is no guarantee that any of these estimates or projections will be achieved. Actual results will vary from the projections and such variations may be material. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied upon as, a promise or representation as to the past or future. Any reliance placed by the reader on this document, or on any forward-looking statement contained in or referred to in this document will be solely at the readers own risk, and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements due to the inherent uncertainty thereof.

* Refer to Barton Prospectus dated 14 May 2021 and ASX announcement dated 4 March 2025. Total Barton JORC (2012) Mineral Resources include 909koz Au (30.8Mt @ 0.92 g/t Au) in Indicated category and 799koz Au (33.2Mt @ 0.75 g/t Au) in Inferred category, and 3,070koz Ag (34.5Mt @ 2.80 g/t Ag) in Inferred category as a subset of Tunkillia gold JORC (2012) Mineral Resources.

SOURCE: Barton Gold Holdings Limited

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/presentation-to-riu-sydney-resources-roundup-1024572
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 6, 2025) - Ankh II Capital Inc. (TSXV: AUNK.P) ("Ankh II" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a non-binding letter of intent (the "LOI") dated April 22, 2025, in connection with a proposed business combination (the "Transaction") with Maple Agro Farms Corporation ("Maple Agro"), an arm's length Canadian based private agricultural company with operations in Ghana focused on the cultivation and marketing of premium palm oil products.

General Information on Ankh II

Ankh II was incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) on August 23, 2022. The Company was formed for the primary purpose of completing an initial public offering on the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV") as a Capital Pool Company (as such term is defined in TSXV Policy 2.4 - Capital Pool Companies (the "Policy")). The Company has not commenced operations and has no significant assets. The principal business of the Company is the identification and evaluation of assets or businesses with a view to completing a Qualifying Transaction (as such term is defined in the Policy), and it is intended that the Transaction will constitute such Qualifying Transaction. The Company's head office and registered and records office is 250 Howe Street 20th Floor, Vancouver, BC, V6C 3R8. The common shares of Ankh II ("Ankh II Common Shares") are currently listed on the TSXV and Ankh II is a reporting issuer in the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Ontario.

Ankh II's issued and outstanding capital consists of 6,041,801 Ankh II Common Shares and 1,008,359 convertible securities exercisable or exchangeable into 1,008,359 Ankh II Common Shares, comprising: (i) 604,179 stock options exercisable at a price of $0.10 per Ankh II Common Share; and (ii) 404,180 agent's warrants exercisable at $0.10 per Ankh II Common Share.

Ankh II's previously announced letter of intent in respect to a proposed qualifying transaction (April 18, 2024) was terminated in accordance with its terms when the proposed target was unable to meet certain conditions, including raising necessary funds.

Upon completion of the Transaction, the resulting issuer (the "Resulting Issuer") it is anticipated that the Resulting Issuer's common shares (the "Resulting Issuer Shares") will be listed and posted for trading on the TSXV as a Tier 2 issuer and will carry on the business of Maple Agro.

General Information Maple Agro Farms Corporation

Maple Agro Farms Corporation ("Maple Agro") is a privately held Canadian agribusiness headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, conducting operations in Ghana through its wholly owned subsidiary, Golden Grove Plantations Ltd. Maple Agro was incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) on October 5, 2016, and its head office is located at 830 - 1100 Melville Street, Vancouver, BC, V6E 4A6. Established to meet the rising demand for sustainably sourced palm oil, Maple Agro is focused on cultivating, processing, and marketing premium palm oil products using advanced technology and environmentally responsible practices.

Maple Agro is developing large-scale palm oil plantations in Ghana's Eastern Region, leveraging fertile land, ideal climatic conditions, and strong local infrastructure. Its mission is to become a premier provider of high-quality, sustainably produced palm oil for domestic and international markets, while contributing to economic development and community upliftment in West Africa.

With an experienced leadership team and a strategic growth plan, Maple Agro aims to establish a 10,000-acre plantation, develop modern processing facilities, and achieve annual production of over 20,000 metric tons of palm oil over an estimated five years. The company integrates sustainability, innovation, and community development at the core of its operations to deliver long-term value for stakeholders.

Maple Agro currently has 17,748,000 common shares ("Maple Agro Common Shares") and 300,000 compensation special warrants convertible into 300,000 Maple Agro Common Shares for no additional consideration, issued and outstanding.

Terms of the Transaction with Maple Agro

The acceptance of the LOI is being followed by good faith negotiations of definitive documentation among the parties setting forth the detailed terms of the Transaction, including percentages of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Resulting Issuer ("Resulting Issuer Shares") that will be represented by shareholders of Ankh II and Maple Agro, at the closing of the Transaction. The Transaction is expected to be completed by way of a three-cornered amalgamation, share purchase, share exchange or alternate structure, to be determined with input from the legal and tax advisors to each of Ankh II and Maple Agro, which will result in Maple Agro becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Ankh II. Additional information respecting the structure will be provided in subsequent press releases, once available.

Upon the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions set out in the definitive transaction agreement to be entered into by Ankh II and Maple Agro (the " Definitive Agreement "), the following, among other things, will be completed in connection with the Transaction: Ankh II will change its name to a new name as determined by Maple Agro, in its sole discretion, subject to compliance with applicable laws and TSXV approval. A corresponding change will be made to the Ankh II's trading symbol.

Ankh II shall change its auditor to such audit firm as determined by Maple Agro, in its sole discretion, subject to applicable regulatory and securities law requirements.

The board of directors and executive management of the Resulting Issuer will be determined by Maple Agro and will be announced in a subsequent press release.

The Transaction is not expected to constitute a "Non-Arm's Length Qualifying Transaction" or a related party transaction as that term is defined in Policy 2.4.

The Resulting Issuer Shares issued to Principals within the meaning of TSXV's policies of the Resulting Issuer will be subject to escrow restrictions in accordance with the TSXV's policies. In addition, the shares of the Resulting Issuer issued to other shareholders of Maple Agro may be subject to resale restrictions as required by the TSXV's policies.

Private Placement Financing

As a condition to the completion of the Transaction, Maple Agro intends to complete a non-brokered private placement [equity] financing (the "Private Placement") for minimum gross proceeds of CDN $1,200,000 and up to a maximum of CDN $1,500,000. The Private Placement is expected to consist of the issuance of a minimum of 12,000,000 and up to 15,000,000 common shares of Maple Agro at a price of CDN $0.10 per share.

Some of the Private Placement may be sold by Ankh II on the same terms but with Ankh II Common Shares and would be completed with the closing of the Transaction. The net proceeds of the Private Placement will be used by the Resulting Issuer for land acquisition, infrastructure development, as well as working capital and general corporate purposes. A finder's fee of up to 8% may be paid in connection with the Private Placement, subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

The ultimate structuring of the Private Placement is subject to receipt of tax, securities law and corporate law advice and the final terms will be provided in subsequent news releases.

Transaction Finder's Fee

In connection with the Transaction and subject to the approval of TSXV, a finder's fee equal to 1% and 2% of the outstanding Resulting Issuer Shares, respectively, shall be paid to two arm's length third parties through issuance of Resulting Issuer Common Shares.

Sponsorship

The Transaction may be subject to sponsorship requirements under TSXV policies unless waived. Ankh II intends to apply for such waiver; however, there can be no assurance that a waiver will be obtained. If a waiver from the sponsorship requirements is not obtained, a sponsor will be identified at a later date. Additional information respecting sponsorship, as required, will be provided in a future news release.

Trading Halt

Trading in Ankh II's common shares will remain halted pending TSXV review of the Transaction and satisfaction of applicable requirements. Trading is not expected to resume until the Transaction closes.

Filing Statement

Ankh II intends to either file a Filing Statement or a Prospectus on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.com) containing details regarding the Transaction, Maple Agro, the Private Placement, and the Resulting Issuer. As the Transaction is not anticipated to be a Non-Arm's Length Qualifying Transaction, it is expected that a shareholders' approval will not be required under TSXV policies.

Additional Information

Following the execution of a definitive agreement, Ankh II will issue a further news release detailing additional terms of the Transaction, Private Placement, finder's fee or commission, details of any financing arrangement, deposits, advances or loans, as applicable, summary financial information on Maple Agro, and further disclosure regarding the proposed directors, officers, and insiders of the Resulting Issuer.

All information in this press release relating to Maple Agro has been provided by Maple Agro and is the sole responsibility of Maple Agro.

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

Cautionary Note

Completion of the Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, TSXV acceptance and if applicable pursuant to TSXV requirements, majority of the minority shareholder approval. Where applicable, the Transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all.

Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular or filing statement to be prepared in connection with the transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of a Capital Pool Company should be considered highly speculative.

The TSXV has in no way passed upon the merits of the Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the development of Maple Agro's operations, the proposal to complete the Transaction and associated transactions, including statements regarding the terms and conditions of the Transaction, the name change of the Company, the Private Placement, the use of proceeds of the Private Placement, and the proposed directors and officers of the Resulting Issuer. The information about Maple Agro contained in this press release has not been independently verified by Ankh II. Although Ankh II believes, considering the experience of its officers and directors, current conditions, expected future developments, and other factors that have been considered appropriate, that the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because Ankh II can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements depending on, among other things, the risks that the parties will not proceed with the Transaction, the name change of the Company, the Private Placement, the appointment of the proposed directors and officers of the Resulting Issuer and associated transactions; that the ultimate terms of the Transaction, the Private Placement or that the Transaction and associated matters will not be successfully completed for any reason (including the failure to obtain required approvals or regulatory clearances). The terms and conditions of the Transaction may change based on Ankh II's due diligence [(which is expected to be limited, as Ankh II intends largely to rely on the due diligence of other parties involved in the Transaction to manage costs)] and the receipt of tax, corporate, and securities law advice for both Ankh II and Maple Agro.

The statements in this press release are made as of the date hereof. Ankh II undertakes no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations, or statements made by third parties in respect of Ankh II, Maple Agro, their securities, or their respective financial or operational results (as applicable).

###

Not for distribution to U.S. newswire services or for dissemination in the United States.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251071

SOURCE: Maple Agro Farms Corporation
Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - May 6, 2025) - Greenfire Resources Ltd. (NYSE: GFR) (TSX: GFR) ("Greenfire" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the voting results from its annual meeting of shareholders held May 6, 2025 in Calgary, Alberta (the "Meeting").

Voting Results from the Meeting

Each of the matters voted upon at the Meeting is discussed in detail in the Company's Management Information Circular dated April 3, 2025 (the "Information Circular"), which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website at www.greenfireres.com/investors/meetings.com.

A total of 56,586,107 Common Shares representing approximately 80.93 percent of the Company's issued and outstanding Common Shares were voted in person and by proxy at the Meeting. All matters presented at the Meeting were approved including the election of all seven nominees listed in the Information Circular. The complete voting results for each matter presented at the Meeting are provided below.

Election of Directors

The following seven nominees were elected as directors of Greenfire to serve until the next annual meeting of the shareholders of the Company, or until their successors are elected or appointed:

Nominee Votes For Votes Withheld Adam Waterous 91.67% 8.33%

50,222,050 4,562,402 Tom Ebbern 93.67% 6.33%

51,315,735 3,468,717 Henry Hager 92.55% 7.45%

50,701,472 4,082,980 Brian Heald 93.67% 6.33%

51,315,735 3,468,717 Andrew Kim 91.86% 8.14%

50,325,093 4,459,359 David Knight Legg 93.67% 6.33%

51,315,735 3,468,717 David Roosth 91.86% 8.14%

50,325,093 4,459,359

Following the Meeting, Mr. Heald has been appointed as Chair of the Audit Committee, and Mr. Knight-Legg has joined the Audit Committee.

Appointment of Auditors

Deloitte LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants, were appointed to serve as the auditors of the Company until the close of the next annual meeting of the shareholders of the Company, at remuneration to be fixed by the directors of the Company.

About Greenfire

Greenfire is an oil sands producer actively developing its long-life and low-decline thermal oil assets in the Athabasca region of Alberta, Canada, with its registered offices in Calgary, Alberta. The Company plans to leverage its large resource base and significant infrastructure in place to drive meaningful, capital-efficient production growth. Greenfire common shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange and Toronto Stock Exchange under the trading symbol "GFR". For more information, visit greenfireres.com.

Contact Information

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251075

SOURCE: Greenfire Resources Ltd.
SINGAPORE, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- PEC Ltd ("PEC", SGX: IX2) shareholders have approved a transaction valued at US$160 million for the 100% acquisition by Alliance Energy Services Pte Ltd ("Alliance") through a Scheme of Arrangement at Extraordinary General Meeting in Singapore. Following sanction of the shareholders' meeting by the High Court of Singapore, all PEC shares will be acquired by Alliance and then PEC will be subsequently delisted from the Singapore Stock Exchange. Alliance is a holding company majority owned by Liberty Energy Solutions Ltd ("Liberty Energy") with a minority ownership by PEC's Chair Ms. Edna Ko and CEO Mr. Robert Dompeling.

Liberty Energy provides energy engineering solutions and proprietary products to oil & gas refineries and petrochemical facilities around the world. With operations across the US, Canada, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, India, and the Middle East, Liberty Energy combines advanced R&D capabilities with extensive field experience. The company holds over 200 patents and each year performs more than 200 plant turnarounds for major global clients, including ExxonMobil, Reliance, SPRC, Neste, Chevron, Nayara, Petronas, BP, and Shell. Liberty Energy is the parent of two wholly owned subsidiaries: CR3 Pte Ltd ("CR3"), a Singapore-based leader in energy efficiency, engineering excellence, and sustainable solutions, and ZymeFlow LLC ("ZymeFlow"), a Houston-based leader in environmentally friendly chemical cleaning and decontamination solutions. ShawKwei & Partners ("ShawKwei") is Liberty Energy's controlling shareholder with management owning the other shares. Please visit libertyenergy.group

Founded in 1982 and headquartered in Singapore, PEC is a well-respected provider of maintenance and integrated EPC services for the oil & gas, petrochemical, chemical terminals and pharmaceutical industries. PEC reported revenue of SGD 391 million and net profit of SGD 15 million for the last twelve months ending 31 December 2024, and a robust balance sheet with net cash position of SGD 142 million. Please visit www.peceng.com

"We are excited to welcome PEC into Liberty Energy," said Kyle Shaw, Chair of Liberty Energy and founder and managing partner of ShawKwei. "PEC's strong management team, technical expertise, and reputation for reliability and service excellence align well with our strategy of building a global platform for best-in-class energy solutions."

PEC will continue to operate under the leadership of Chair Edna Ko and CEO Robert Dompeling and work closely with Liberty Energy to provide a greater range of engineering services and products to deliver greater value to a larger group of customers. With more than four decades of operational excellence and strong customer relationships across Asia and the Middle East, PEC enhances Liberty Energy's global platform with CR3 and ZymeFlow, and expands its ability to deliver reliable, end-to-end energy solutions worldwide.

About ShawKwei & Partners:

ShawKwei & Partners is a private equity fund manager investing in industrial and service companies with revenues between US$50-800 million operating across Asia, Europe, and the USA. After investing, ShawKwei & Partners helps improve a business by partnering with management to identify and realize sustainable performance improvements in sales growth, margin expansion, and capital efficiency. Kyle Shaw established ShawKwei & Partners in Hong Kong in 1998 after previously managing Asian private equity funds for the Tudor Investment Group and Security Pacific National Bank. Please visit www.shawkwei.com

About CR3 Pte Ltd:

Founded in 1991 in Singapore, CR3 provides energy engineering solutions across 18 Asian countries, India, and the Middle East from operational bases in Singapore, Thailand, India, Malaysia, and the UAE. CR3 is well known for handling mission-critical reactor catalysts used in refining, chemical, fertilizer, and heavy industrial plants for customers in asset-intensive industries such as energy production, chemical processing, and power generation. CR3 also offers equipment and plant maintenance, pipeline and process services, shutdowns and turnarounds, and engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) solutions. Backed by a loyal workforce, strong customer relationships, and a wide network of technical partners, CR3 has built a reputation for excellence and is well-positioned to support the energy sector's transition to a lower-carbon future. Please visit www.CR3.group

About ZymeFlow LLC:

Headquartered in Houston, Texas, ZymeFlow has over 35 years of experience pioneering innovative chemical decontamination solutions that are more effective, more environmentally friendly, and less wasteful than alternative methods. As an industry leader, ZymeFlow continues to develop proprietary chemistries and application technologies such as ZymeFlow Pro, Rezyd-HP, CatZyme, and ZymeFlow LNG. Its diverse, 100% biodegradable product line helps clients meet sustainability goals, reduce downtime, and lower costs across refining, petrochemical, and LNG facilities onshore and offshore in over 55 countries. Supported by one of the most experienced operations teams in the industry, ZymeFlow's patented, eco-friendly solutions optimize facility performance, reduce carbon footprints, and drive green initiatives. Please visit www.ZymeFlow.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2680536/Liberty.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/pec-ltd-us160-million-buyout-and-privatization-by-liberty-energy-solutions-ltd-302447952.html
Sydney, New South Wales--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Multi-Award-Winning Pet Insurance Provider Petsy Announces Enhanced Costco Exclusive

Petsy.com.au, one of Australia's highest-rated pet insurance providers, has announced an enhancement to its existing partnership with Costco Australia. Effective immediately, Costco Executive Members who purchase a new Petsy pet insurance policy by May 15, 2025, will receive an added $20 Costco Shop Card as part of the Executive Membership benefit program.

PETSY ANNOUNCES ENHANCED PET INSURANCE PARTNERSHIP WITH COSTCO AUSTRALIA

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/250590_3235723434147933_002full.jpg

The partnership, publicly acknowledged on both the Petsy and Costco Australia websites, aims to address growing demand for accessible and transparent pet healthcare coverage amid rising veterinary expenses nationwide.



The partnership between Petsy and Costco provides Executive Members access to pet insurance plans that can reimburse up to 90% of eligible veterinary bills. These policies include features such as an annual excess (rather than a per-condition excess), no sub-limits, and a streamlined claims process - features that distinguish the offering from many other providers.

"Our partnership with Costco Australia has delivered positive results since its inception, and this enhancement further reinforces our shared commitment to providing value and support to members, " said Monica Limanto, CEO of Petsy.

"We believe that providing education about accidental injuries, illnesses, other unexpected conditions and offering accessible insurance options can help reduce the financial stress associated with emergency treatment, when used correctly."

As part of the ongoing collaboration, Costco Executive Members are eligible to receive a standard annual Costco Shop Card valued between $30 and $600 for the first three years of their Petsy policy. The newly announced $20 Shop Card, available through May 15, 2025, is an added feature for members who initiate new policies during this period.

Petsy has built its reputation on transparency, customer-focused service, and policies that are easy to understand and implement. The company's annual excess model and removal of sub-limits have become key differentiators among pet owners who have previously encountered restrictive or confusing insurance terms.

Rhian Tuake, Senior Emergency & Critical Care Vet Nurse at Petsy, noted that the financial pressures associated with emergency veterinary care are frequently overlooked until they occur. "When a pet is brought into an emergency room, the emotional strain is immediate, but the financial reality follows quickly," said Tuake.

"Some treatments can cost thousands of dollars - and families are often forced to make difficult decisions. Our goal is to help reduce that financial stress so that attention can stay on the pet's care."

Research suggests that some emergency treatments such as tick paralysis therapy, hip replacements, or specialist surgeries can exceed $10,000 if not $20,000. In such cases, lack of coverage may delay or prevent critical treatment. The enhancement to the Costco partnership aims to improve access to financial assistance protections for pet owners.

It's also important to understand that vet bills aren't high because vets or clinic staff are "pocketing" the money. The reality is, it's costly to run a veterinary clinic - from specialised equipment to 24/7 staffing and medication costs. In fact, procedures like X-rays, blood tests, and surgeries cost just as much for pets as they do for humans. The only difference is, in Australia humans have Medicare for people - but there's no Medicare for pets. Without pet insurance, those costs fall entirely on you.

The collaboration is supported by publicly available information on both organisations' official websites:

Petsy Pet Insurance for Costco Members: https://petsy.com.au/costco-petsy

Costco Australia Services: https://www.costco.com.au/services

Additional background on the partnership:

https://petsy.com.au/nine-reasons-why-costco-chose-petsy-as-their-exclusive-pet-insurance-provider

The added $20 Shop Card feature applies to new policies purchased by Costco Executive Members through May 15, 2025, and will be delivered alongside the standard annual Shop Card benefit. Terms and conditions apply and can be found via Petsy and Costco's official channels.

About Petsy

As of April 30, 2025, Petsy is one of Australia's highest-rated pet insurance providers, offering comprehensive coverage options for dogs and cats. The company was founded to improve access to high-quality pet healthcare and is known for its transparent policies, simplified claims, and award-winning customer service. Petsy policies include no sub-limits and use an annualexcess model, distinguishing them from many competitors. The company is consistently reviewed positively across platforms including Trustpilot, ProductReview.com.au, and Google.

For more information, visit petsy.com.au.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/250590

SOURCE: Plentisoft
R&S Group Holding AG / Key word(s): Miscellaneous

R&S Group acknowledges the full exit of its shareholder CGS



07-May-2025 / 06:30 CET/CEST

Release of an ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.





Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR

R&S Group acknowledges the full exit of its shareholder CGS

R&S Group has been informed that CGS sold 2,532,054 RSGN shares via block trade yesterday post market close, exiting its position in full

CGS's stake has been sold into the market via an accelerated bookbuilding to Swiss and international investors not subject to any lock-ups

With this transaction, R&S Group's free float is expected to increase from 83% to 90%

7 May 2025 - R&S Group Holding AG (SIX: RSGN) acknowledges the sale of 2,532,054 shares in R&S Group Holding AG ("R&S Group") by CGS III (Jersey) L.P. ("CGS") to a group of Swiss and international investors not subject to any lock ups.

The trade, which took place after the close of trading yesterday, corresponds to 6.8% of R&S Group's share capital. Following the transaction, CGS will no longer hold any shares in R&S Group. This transaction is expected to increase the free float of R&S Group shares from 83% to 90%.



Calendar 2025

14 May Annual General Meeting 2025 29 July Trading update HY 2025 results 11 September Release of half-year 2025 results



Contact Investor and Media Relations



Doris Rudischhauser

Phone: +41 79 410 81 88

Email: investors@the-rsgroup.com



About R&S Group

R&S Group Holding AG's ("R&S Group", the "company") operating headquarters are located in Sissach/BL, Switzerland. With eight manufacturing facilities in Switzerland, Italy, Poland, Ireland and the Middle East, the group serves its domestic and various European markets with single-phase, small and medium distribution and power transformers and other components under the brands of Rauscher & Stoecklin, ZREW, Tesar and Kyte. R&S Group's customers are active in the utility, infrastructure and industrial sectors. The company has been successfully positioned to benefit from the accelerating demand for energy production and distribution, driven by the global trend towards decarbonization. R&S Group has been listed on SIX Swiss Exchange since 13 December 2023 under the ticker symbol RSGN. On 20 August 2024, the company acquired Kyte Powertech, a leading supplier of distribution transformer solutions based in Cavan, Ireland, thus significantly expanding geographic footprint to Ireland, the UK, Benelux and France, and adding complimentary products.

Further information about the R&S Group can be found at https://ww.ir.the-rsgroup.com .



Disclaimer



This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning R&S Group Holding AG and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of R&S Group Holding AG to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. R&S Group Holding AG is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
London Ranks #1 for a third year; Paris and Berlin round out the Top 3 as Europe's cities define the future amid today's massive global transformation. The UK is the country with the most cities in the Top 100 with 18, followed by Germany at 16 and France at 10.

LONDON, May 07, 2025, a leading advisor in place branding, tourism, and economic development, today released its third annual Europe's Best Cities rankingfor 2025, spotlighting the 100 cities shaping the continent's future.

London, bolstered by its dynamic economy, cultural vibrancy, and unparalleled global connectivity, retained its #1 ranking for a third consecutive year. Paris secured the #2 spot with its ambitious sustainability investments and transformative post-Olympic legacy projects, while Berlin landed at #3, thriving as a creative capital and geopolitical nerve center in a rapidly evolving Europe.

Resonance's 2025 Europe's Best Cities reportcombines global user-generated data, core statistical performance, and new proprietary research, including a landmark Ipsos survey of 7,500 Europeans across 10 countries, to create the continent's most comprehensive city ranking.

"As Europe redefines itself politically and economically, its cities are once again leading the way," said Chris Fair, President & CEO of Resonance Consultancy. "From sustainability breakthroughs to cultural reinvention, the cities topping our list are those not only navigating disruption, but seizing it to shape more livable, lovable, and prosperous futures."

The Top 10 Europe's Best Cities for 2025are:

1. London, United Kingdom

2. Paris, France

3. Berlin, Germany

4. Barcelona, Spain

5. Rome, Italy

6. Madrid, Spain

7. Amsterdam, Netherlands

8. Vienna, Austria

9. Prague, Czechia

10. Stockholm, Sweden

The 2025 Europe's Best Cities rankingarrives at a pivotal moment:

Cities are reshoring industries, investing heavily in green infrastructure, and leveraging their heritage to attract a new generation of global talent and visitors.



Major urban development projects, like Paris's Grand Paris Express metro expansion and London's Canary Wharf 3.0 transformation, exemplify a new era of strategic placemaking and urban resilience.



Europe's renaissance in sustainable travel is evident with the surge in high-speed rail and overnight train services, making connectivity and low-carbon mobility central to city competitiveness.

"Europe's urban appeal remains timeless, but today's leaders are reimagining their cities for an era of economic self-reliance, environmental urgency, and experiential living," said Jason McGrath, EVP and Head of U.S. Corporate Reputation at Ipsos, the Best Cities research partner. "Our new research shows that while iconic cities remain beloved, emerging destinations are gaining ground fast among Europeans for livability, visitability, and career opportunities."

How the ranking was built:



The Place Power Score, Resonance's proprietary methodology, evaluated each city's performance and perception across three core pillars:

Livability (housing affordability, green spaces, healthcare, air quality)



(housing affordability, green spaces, healthcare, air quality) Lovability (culture, nightlife, dining, attractions, social media engagement)



(culture, nightlife, dining, attractions, social media engagement) Prosperity (economic strength, labor force participation, educational attainment, startup ecosystem)

This year's index reflects fresh realities, including affordability pressures, reshoring of critical industries, new mobility patterns, and carbon-conscious travel behaviors across Europe. A ranking of the continent's best-performing cities has rarely been this illuminating.

The full Europe's Best Cities 2025 report is availabe here.

About Resonance Consultancy

Resonance creates transformative strategies, brands and campaigns that empower destinations, cities and communities to realize their full potential. As leading advisors in real estate, tourism and economic development, Resonance combines expertise in research, strategy, branding and communications to make destinations, cities and developments more valuable and more vibrant. ResonanceCo.com

About Ipsos

Ipsos is one of the largest market research and polling companies globally, operating in 90 markets and employing nearly 20,000 people. Our passionately curious research professionals, analysts and scientists have built unique multi-specialist capabilities that provide true understanding and powerful insights into the actions, opinions and motivations of citizens, consumers, patients, customers or employees. Our 75 business solutions are based on primary data from our surveys, social media monitoring, and qualitative or observational techniques. "Game Changers"-our tagline-summarizes our ambition to help our 5,000 clients navigate with confidence our rapidly changing world. Founded in France in 1975, Ipsos has been listed on the Euronext Paris since July 1, 1999. The company is part of the SBF 120 and Mid-60 indices and is eligible for the Deferred Settlement Service

About World's Best Cities

Best Cities is the home of Resonance's exclusive ranking of the world's top urban regions. The data is used by leading news outlets, trusted by city leaders, and is widely considered to be the world's most comprehensive annual city ranking. Bloomberg calls it, "The most comprehensive study of its kind; it identifies cities that are most desirable for locals, visitors, and businesspeople alike, rather than simply looking at livability or tourism appeal." WorldsBestCities.com | BestCities

Attachments

Resonance Consultancy Reveals Europe's Best Cities for 2025 (https://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/6a223a15-8d1e-4d53-b0ff-b44e77c97b44)

Resonance Consultancy Reveals Europe's Best Cities for 2025 (https://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/bbb323ba-5712-483d-85b5-006fb6a64b54)

Tom Gierasimczuk Resonance Consultancy 604-649-8664 tom@resonanceco.com
Regulatory News:

Latecoere (the Company "), a Tier 1 supplier to major international aircraft manufacturers, announces the completion of a reserved capital increase for the benefit of employees and corporate officers of the group, amounting, including the issue premium, to approximately 1.1 million (the Capital Increase

This Capital Increase is part of the profit-sharing plan implemented in 2023 and is based on the authorizations of the Company's General Meeting held on December 30, 2024.

Terms of the issue

Latecoere issued 73,333,328 new shares at a unit subscription price of 0.015 euros as part of the Capital Increase.

The total amount of the Capital Increase (including issue premium) amounts to approximately 1.1 million euros (of which approximately 733,333 euros in nominal amount and 366,666 euros in issue premium).

This capital increase without preferential subscription rights benefits to persons belonging to a category of persons meeting specific characteristics, namely certain managers of Latecoere Group 1. The Capital Increase was launched on April 16, 2025 by decision of the Chief Executive Officer, acting on subdelegation of the Board of Directors of March 19, 2025, acting itself on the basis of the delegation granted by the General Meeting on December 30, 2024 (34th resolution

Five managers of Latecoere group subscribed to the Capital Increase (the Beneficiaries "), including Mr. Nick Sanders, Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Mr. Andre-Hubert Roussel, Chief Executive Officer of Latecoere Group.

The new shares carry current dividend rights and are treated as the same as the existing shares. They are admitted to trading on Euronext Paris on the same trading line as the existing shares.

Use of the proceeds of the issue

The proceeds of the Capital Increase will be allocated to the general needs of Latecoere Group.

Impact of the Capital Increase on the distribution of capital

Following the Capital Increase, the Company's share capital is increased from 126,198,047.26 euros to 126,931,380.54 euros, and the number of shares in the Company is increased from 12,619,804,726 shares to 12,693,138,054 shares with a nominal value of 0.01 euros each. The change in the distribution of capital and the dilutive impact for shareholders are therefore not significant.

Risk factors

The main risk factors linked to the Capital Increase are as follows for subscribers:

risk of total or partial loss of the capital invested;

the resale of securities is not guaranteed and depends on existing market conditions;

Return on investment depends on the performance of the Company.

The main risk factors associated with Latecoere are described in section 2 of the Company's 2023 Universal Registration Document filed on December 6, 2024 with the AMF and available at the following link: https://www.latecoere.aero/app/uploads/2024/12/Document-denregistrement-universel-2023.pdf

Shareholders' agreement

The Beneficiaries have adhered to the non-concerting shareholders' agreement with Searchlight Capital Partners, the main clauses of which have already been the subject of a specific publication in accordance with Article L. 233-11 of the French Commercial Code (AMF Publication No. 222C0929 of April 26, 2022)

No prospectus

Pursuant to Article 1, 4 b) and 5 a) of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129, the issue does not give rise to the establishment of a prospectus.

Free allocation of preference shares

In the context of the subscription to the Capital Increase, the Beneficiaries will be allocated free preference shares of the Company, subject where applicable to an acquisition and retention period as well as a presence condition.

The principle of this allocation was decided by the Board of Directors at its meeting of March 19, 2025, by virtue of the authorization granted by the General Meeting of December 30, 2024 under the terms of its 38th resolution.

About Latecoere

Tier 1 to the world's leading OEMs (Airbus, BAE Systems, Boeing, Bombardier, Dassault Aviation, Embraer, Honda Aircraft Company, Lockheed Martin, RTX, Thales), Latecoere serves aerospace with innovative solutions for a sustainable world. The Group operates in all segments of the aerospace industry (commercial, regional, business, defense and space) in three business areas:

Aerostructures Europe and Americas: doors, fuselage, wings and empennage, rods;

Interconnection Systems: wiring, avionic racks, on-board systems;

Special Products and Services: customer services, on-board equipment, electronic systems.

As of December 31, 2024, the Group employed 5,400 people in 14 countries. Latecoere is listed on Euronext Paris Compartment B, ISIN Code: FR001400JY13 Reuters: AEP.PA Bloomberg: AT.FP

1Members of the salaried staff and/or corporate officers of the Company and/or of the companies it controls within the meaning of Article L. 233-3 of the French Commercial Code.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250506032120/en/

Contacts:

Thierry Mahe Media Relations

+33 (0)6 60 69 63 85

LatecoereGroupCommunication@latecoere.aero



Investor Relations

mandataires-ag-latecoere@latecoere.aero
Regulatory News:

CTP, Europe's largest listed developer, owner, and manager of industrial and logistics properties by gross lettable area (GLA), has signed a lease with discount chain ALDI for a 43,000 sqm central warehouse at CTPark Warsaw Emilianow, near Warsaw. Currently under construction, this will become ALDI's third Polish distribution centre and is scheduled to open in Q1 2026.

In 2024, ALDI opened nearly 60 new stores in Poland. It now has more than 360 across the country with more openings planned this year, including in the capital. The scale of expansion and the growing popularity of the brand in the central and north-eastern part of the country is behind the decision to open this new distribution centre near Warsaw which will help optimise ALDI's logistics chain. ALDI will become the first tenant at CTPark Warsaw Emilianow, occupying almost the entire first warehouse under construction.

The technologically advanced warehouse space has been designed to increase the efficiency and quality of ALDI's supply chain. Thanks to a special refrigeration zone, around 25% of the ALDI chain's deliveries will be made under temperature-controlled conditions, which will allow the discounter to preserve the freshness of its products. Nearly 90 unloading ramps will enable efficient logistics services, while relieving ALDI's existing centres in Bydgoszcz and Chorzow will shorten delivery times to shops located in the Mazowieckie, Warminsko-Mazurskie, Podlaskie, Lodzkie and Lubelskie regions.

The facility will also be equipped with fire safety features that go beyond the standard, including enabling transfer smoke extraction from the freezer rooms. The park has been designed to prioritize efficiency and environmental performance; energy management measures include the re-use of waste heat generated by the glycol cooling system to heat the floor beneath the freezer rooms and for domestic hot water preparation.

CTPark Emilianow is a modern warehouse facility located in the vicinity of Warsaw, intended mainly for logistics companies looking for development in the region. When fully complete, the entire park will consist of three buildings with a total leasable area of more than 119,600 sqm. The strategic location of CTPark Emilianow right next to the S8 expressway, just 23 km from Warsaw, is influencing the growing interest of potential customers looking for logistics solutions at the park.

Wojciech Lubienski, President of the Management Board of ALDI Poland, said: "Our new distribution centre with CTP in Emilianow is a strategic step in the development of ALDI's logistics in Poland. Thanks to the new location, we will significantly increase the flexibility and efficiency of our deliveries in the central and north-eastern parts of the country. Equally importantly, the investment will allow us to be even closer to our customers and thus respond faster to their needs."

Piotr Flugel, Managing Director at CTP Poland, commented: "We are excited to build on our decades of experience working with supermarket clients including Makro Cash&Carry, Lidl, Aldi and Tesco, to deliver sustainable logistics solutions tailored to ALDI's business and customers. As a developer-owner, CTP not only builds but then manages logistics facilities for our clients, ensuring we gain a deep understanding of their needs and provide long-term stability.

"CTPark Warsaw Emilianow is one of our seven investments in the Mazovia region, where we are currently developing a total of more than 840,000 sqm of industrial and logistics space and aim to reach one million sqm by the end of 2026. This is a very promising market for us, as well as for ALDI, which has become the first tenant of CTPark Warsaw Emilianow a business park whose construction is just starting."

About CTP

CTP is Europe's largest listed owner, developer, and manager of logistics and industrial real estate by gross lettable area, owning 13.3 million sqm of GLA across 10 countries as at 31 December 2024. CTP certifies all new buildings to BREEAM Very good or better and earned a negligible-risk ESG rating by Sustainalytics, underlining its commitment to being a sustainable business. For more information, visit CTP's corporate website: www.ctp.eu.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250506151359/en/

Contacts:

CONTACT DETAILS FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES:

Patryk Statkiewicz, Group Head of Marketing PR

Mobile: +31 (0) 629 596 119

Email: patryk.statkiewicz@ctp.eu

SEC Newgate

James Carnegie

Mobile: +44 (0)7827 486 224

Email: CTP@SECNewgate.co.uk

CONTACT DETAILS FOR ANALYST AND INVESTOR ENQUIRIES:

Maarten Otte, Head of Investor Relations

Mobile: +420 730 197 500

Email: maarten.otte@ctp.eu
RSA, the security-first identity leader, today announced new Identity Security Posture Management (ISPM) capabilities that will help enterprises proactively find and resolve security risks across hybrid and cloud environments. Built into the RSA Governance Lifecycle identity governance and administration (IGA) solution, the new ISPM features address critical cybersecurity risks that result from cloud computing, remote work, and the growth of human and non-human identities.

Combined with newly released RSA Governance Lifecycle IGA enhancements, RSA ISPM innovations help organizations proactively reduce their identity attack surface. New AI-powered dashboards deliver proactive and actionable insights into policy violations, excessive entitlements, orphaned accounts, and other critical risks that can weaken security and compliance. RSA solutions don't stop at identifying risks: they go further by recommending specific actions to resolve issues, helping organizations move quickly from insight to resolution.

Increasingly complex IT environments have made it impossible for organizations to gain a comprehensive understanding of their identity posture using traditional approaches to identity and access management, leaving them vulnerable to attacks, compliance fines, and other risks. To adapt to this evolving threat landscape, organizations are turning to ISPM, a new cybersecurity framework that complements traditional IGA functions by stressing comprehensive visibility, continuous risk assessment, and automated remediation of identity-related vulnerabilities.

RSA Governance Lifecycle provides the ISPM capabilities enterprises need to gain comprehensive visibility into their identity ecosystem. Its advanced dashboards, powered by AI, analyze identity data to proactively uncover vulnerabilities, prioritize risks, and deliver clear, actionable insights for admins, business leaders, and executives. The new RSA Governance Lifecycle ISPM capabilities will be generally available in Q3 2025.

"Reactive identity security capabilities simply aren't sufficient for today's threats, which demand solutions that can proactively find, prioritize, and resolve identity risks," said RSA CEO Rohit Ghai. "Government agencies, banks, healthcare, energy, and other security-first organizations need a unified identity platform-including strong access security, enterprise-grade passwordless authentication, governance, and lifecycle operating in an ISPM framework-to stop cyberattacks, stay in compliance, and accelerate productivity."

"For identity teams overwhelmed by data, the new AI-powered dashboards from RSA provide the proactive information they need to prioritize actions and enhance their security," said RSA Chief Product and Technology Officer Jim Taylor. "With more threats, higher compliance expectations, and shrinking cybersecurity budgets, the new RSA Governance Lifecycle ISPM capabilities can help organizations do more-and more effectively-with less."

"RSA Governance Lifecycle provides organizations with the tools, visibility, and insights they need to mature their cybersecurity stance, proactively resolve risks, and fulfill audit requirements," said Alaa Abdulnabi, RSA SVP and General Manager, International. "These innovations ensure that high-security organizations can stay ahead of cybersecurity threats and operational challenges."

The new RSA Governance Lifecycle ISPM capabilities and other solution enhancements announced at EIC 2025 offer key benefits for enterprises, including:

Unparalleled visibility Advanced dashboards offer a comprehensive view of identity risk across your entire environment, enabling organizations to take proactive measures to secure resources, reduce their attack surface, and prevent breaches before they happen.

Advanced dashboards offer a comprehensive view of identity risk across your entire environment, enabling organizations to take proactive measures to secure resources, reduce their attack surface, and prevent breaches before they happen. Actionable insights for everyone Dashboards visualize complex data for admins, business leaders, and executives to coordinate and prioritize action.

Dashboards visualize complex data for admins, business leaders, and executives to coordinate and prioritize action. Easier, continuous compliance: New RSA Governance Lifecycle ISPM capabilities make it easy to surface the evidence auditors need, highlight areas that require attention, and reveal opportunities to reduce risk-all while maturing Zero Trust architecture and aiding with GDPR, SOX, ISO 27001, SOC 2, and other compliance initiatives.

RSA Governance Lifecycle provides these capabilities in a solution recognized for its flexible deployment options, comprehensive visibility, and engaging gamification features that drive a culture of compliance and boost user satisfaction. These capabilities make RSA Governance Lifecycle a powerful tool for enterprises looking to enhance their ISPM strategy, while simplifying governance and lifecycle management.

EIC attendees can meet RSA at Booth 7 to preview these new innovations. They are also invited to join RSA Field CTO International Ingo Schubert at the following presentations:

Clear Skies: What If Suddenly There Is No Cloud? Join Ingo on May 8 at 12:25 pm CEST in B 09 to learn how organizations can build resilience, prevent threats, and meet DORA and NIS2 requirements even if cloud-based multi-factor authentication goes offline.

How to Secure Data in the Cloud Is Encryption Enough? Join Ingo for a panel conversation on May 8 at 12:45 pm CEST in B 09 to learn how encryption, Zero Trust architecture, and AI-driven threat detection can secure data in the cloud.

Have questions or want to speak with someone directly? Contact us and RSA representatives will contact you directly.

Resources:

RSA Governance Lifecycle Solution Brief

RSA Governance Lifecycle Data Sheet

About RSA

RSA provides mission-critical cybersecurity solutions that protect the world's most security-sensitive organizations. The RSA Unified Identity Platform provides true passwordless identity security, risk-based access, automated identity intelligence, and comprehensive identity governance across cloud, hybrid, and on-premises environments. More than 9,000 high-security organizations trust RSA to manage more than 60 million identities, detect threats, secure access, and enable compliance. For additional information, visit our website to contact sales, find a partner, or learn more about RSA.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250506389182/en/

Contacts:

teamrsa@axicom.com
ABU DHABI, UAE, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Following the successful deployment of autonomous driving Q-Trucks in 2021, CSP Abu Dhabi Terminal has now received a second batch of Q-Trucks, developed by Westwell, a global provider of autonomous driving solutions specializing in the logistics industry.

Introducing AI in MENA region

CSP Abu Dhabi Terminal management team stated that as the first terminal in the Middle East to implement automated truck system, the Q-Trucks' excellent performance has become a pivotal driver of smart port transformation. Since their deployment, Q-Trucks have not only reduced energy consumption for each individual container, but also empowered port collection and distribution system while improving efficiency with 24/7 operation and precise positioning, remaining stable even in extreme weather like intense heat and sandstorms. Given this success, CSP ADT has recently further expanded its fleet of Q-Trucks to further enhance the quality and efficiency of the terminal's horizontal transportation capabilities.

The team added, "Moving forward, we will explore the construction of an intelligent port brain driven by AI large models to transform technological advancements into customer trust and regional competitiveness, setting a global benchmark for the intelligent transformation of ports."

New energy autonomous-driving solutions

These fully autonomous new energy vehicles (NEVs) for commercial use are designed to operate continuously, even in extreme weather conditions, such as Abu Dhabi's searing summer temperatures, which regularly exceed 40C. Through meticulous tailoring and optimization, Westwell has successfully integrated advanced technologies into the vehicles like Bird's Eye View (BEV) and Transformer architectures onto the vehicle, further enhancing Q-Trucks' perception and decision-making capabilities, making them a seamless and efficient addition to the port's container yard operations.

The project also saw the company's adoption of a Fleet Management System (FMS) for overseeing daily activities utilizing Q-Trucks. Integrating AI and machine learning algorithms, the platform enables the intelligent optimization of route planning, driver behavior analysis, and predictive maintenance to make fleet operations more intelligent, efficient and greener.

Comprehensive intelligent green solutions for horizontal transportation

Over the past nine years since its founding, Westwell, an innovative artificial intelligence (AI) logistics company has been widely renowned by providing full-stack digital and green solutions for planning and managing complex operations in seaports, railway hubs, dry ports, airports, factories and more. To further support the UAE's smart transition by leveraging advanced AI technology, Westwell has established a hub in the MENA region, which will be officially put into operation this year to support localized business development.

Through Westwell Ainergy strategy - combining AI with new clean energy solutions - Westwell provides customers with efficient and environmentally friendly solutions. To date, the company has served over 200 users across 28 countries and regions around the world, and will continue to dedicate its time and energy to driving the evolution of intelligent green technology, bringing more innovation and value to the users of smart, large-scale logistics across the globe.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2680274/20250506_150532.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/csp-adt-reorders-westwells-q-trucks-driving-future-of-smart-port-operations-302448135.html
Gorilla friendships have an impact on their health.

Gorillas with strong social bonds are more likely to get sick

Boffins have found that male primates who have strong social bonds in the wild were more likely to get ill.

Experts with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and the universities of Exeter and Zurich claim that their findings highlight the forces that affect the evolution of social behaviour and could perhaps explain why some human beings are less sociable than others.

The researchers examined over 20 years of data on 164 gorillas in Rwanda.

Dr. Robin Morrison, lead author of the research at the University of Zurich, explained: "Having a lot of strong social relationships is often really good but sometimes it isn't.

"It's possible that males expend more energy by having close social ties, as they have to defend females and offspring, and the stress of this may reduce their immune function. If you are a very popular male in your group, that comes with a lot of responsibilities."
Vancouver, British Columbia and Melbourne, Australia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Southern Cross Gold Consolidated Ltd (TSXV: SXGC) (ASX: SX2) (OTC Pink: MWSNF) (FSE: MV3) ("SXGC", "SX2" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed the first tranche (the "First Tranche") of its previously announced C$143M/A$162M private placement (the "Placement").

Pursuant to the closing of the First Tranche, the Company has issued 19,733,160 common shares (the "Shares" and each common share in the authorized structure of the Company, a "Common Share") of which 16,171,050 are converted to Chess Depositary Interests (the "CDIs") each at a price of C$4.50 (A$5.10) for aggregate gross process of C$88,799,220 to the Company. Each CDI represents one underlying Share on a one-for-one basis.

Stifel Nicolaus Canada Inc. and Aitken Mount Capital Partners Pty Ltd (ABN 39 169 972 436) acted as joint lead managers and joint bookrunners (together, the "JLMs"), together with Jett Capital Advisors as co-manager (collectively with the JLMs, the "Agents") to the Placement.

A second tranche (the "Second Tranche") of the Placement for additional aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of approximately C$54,308,502 is expected to close on or about May 14, 2025, or on such other dates as the Company and the JLMs may agree.

The net proceeds from the Placement are expected to deliver the following key milestones in the growth and development of the Sunday Creek Gold-Antimony Project, located 60 km north of Melbourne, Australia:

C$53M for drilling targeted to establish an Inferred Resource by Q1 2027;

C$27M for 1 km decline development to accelerate access to mineralization;

C$4M for a Preliminary Economic Assessment in respect of Sunday Creek; and

C$59M for exploration target expansion, regional exploration along the 12 km mineralized trend, working capital and G&A over three years.

Details of the Placement

All Shares issued pursuant to the First Tranche are subject to a statutory hold period of four-months and one day from the date of closing (the "Closing") expiring on September 7, 2025. CDIs issued under the Placement cannot be converted into Common Shares for the purpose of trading such Shares in Canada until four months and one day have elapsed from the Closing. The Placement remains subject to final approval from the TSX Venture Exchange.

The First Tranche was completed under an offer to investors who qualify as professional or sophisticated investors under section 708(8), (10) and (11) of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) ("Corporations Act") in Australia for aggregate gross proceeds of A$82,472,355 from the issuance of 16,171,050 CDIs, and by way of private placement in reliance on available exemptions from the prospectus requirements in Canada and other permitted jurisdictions, for aggregate gross proceeds of C$16,029,495.00 from the issuance of 3,562,110 Shares.

The CDIs issued under the First Tranche are expected to commence normal trading on the Australian Securities Exchange ("ASX") on a normal settlement basis on May 7, 2025.

The Company paid to the Agents a cash commission of A$2,388,460.56 equal to 5.0% of the gross proceeds from the First Tranche for orders received outside the President's List.

The securities offered have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, United States persons absent registration or any applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of any offer to buy securities in the United States, nor in any other jurisdiction.

Pursuant to the First Tranche, a total of 19,733,160 new Shares and CDIs were issued within the Company's placement capacity under ASX listing rules.

An Appendix 2A with details of the issue of new CDIs has been filed on ASX today.

Mr. Darren Morcombe, an insider of the Company, subscribed for 980,392 CDIs under the First Tranche for gross proceeds to the Company of A$4,999,999.20. Prior to the closing of the First Tranche, Mr. Morcombe held 28,010,720 Common Shares or approximately 12.52% of the outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis. Pursuant to the closing of the First Tranche, Mr. Morcombe now holds 28,991,112 Common Shares or 11.91% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares.

Participation of Mr. Morcombe in the First Tranche constituted a "related party transaction" as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"), but was exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements pursuant to sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, as neither the fair market value of the securities issued to the insider nor the consideration paid by the insider exceeded 25% of the Company's market capitalization.

About Southern Cross Gold Consolidated Ltd. (TSXV: SXGC) (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 (the "Sunday Creek"). Sunday Creek has emerged as one of the Western world's most significant gold and antimony discoveries, with exceptional drilling results from just 77 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 20% 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 project, with preliminary metallurgical work showing non-refractory mineralization suitable for conventional processing.

With 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.

- Ends -

This announcement has been approved for release by the Board of Southern Cross Gold Consolidated Ltd.

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 statements related to the closing of the Second Tranche of the Placement, use of proceeds of the Placement, applicable regulatory and applicable stock exchange approvals. 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 Southern Cross Gold'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 Southern Cross Gold with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada or Australia (under code SX2), as applicable, and available for Southern Cross Gold 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.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN

THE UNITED STATES

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251095

SOURCE: Southern Cross Gold Consolidated Ltd.
Legrand reports strong growth in sales and very solid results in the first quarter of 2025

Sales growth (organic and acquisitions): +11.2%

Adjusted operating margin: 20.7% (after acquisitions)

Net profit attributable to the Group: 12.9% of sales

The Group is pursuing the implementation of its strategic plan

Accelerating organic growth in datacenters

2 acquisitions announced since the beginning of the year

Launch of 6th CSR roadmap 2025-2027

2025 full-year targets confirmed

Regulatory News:

Legrand (Paris:LR):

Benoit Coquart, Legrand's Chief Executive Officer, commented:

"Our results for the first quarter of 2025 are very solid and in line with our expectations, in terms of sales, margins and free cash flow.

We are actively pursuing the implementation of our strategic plan with, for example, an acceleration of our development in datacenters, which accounted for 20% of our sales in 20241; the acquisition of two very fine companies, in the Netherlands and in Australia, which will be supplemented by other transactions in the coming quarters; or the launch of our 6th CSR roadmap covering 2025-2027.

Confident in our ability to execute and adapt, and despite a volatile environment due to customs policies, we confirm our annual targets as defined at the beginning of the year, and are fully on track to achieve our 2030 ambitions."

2025 full-year targets confirmed2

In 2025, the Group is pursuing the profitable and responsible development laid out in its strategic roadmap. Taking into account the world's current macroeconomic outlook and progressively normalizing customs policies, and with confidence in its model for creating integrated value, Legrand has set the following full-year targets for 2025:

sales growth of between +6% and +10% (organic and acquisitions, excluding currency effects);

- adjusted operating margin (after acquisitions) holding stable overall, compared with 2024;

- at least 100% CSR achievement rate for the first year of the 2025-2027 roadmap3

Financial performance at March 31, 2025

Key figures

Consolidated data ( millions)(1) 1st quarter 2024 1st quarter 2025 Change Sales 2,028.2 2,277.8 +12.3% Adjusted operating profit 415.9 470.4 +13.1% As of sales 20.5% 20.7% 20.7% before acquisitions(2) Operating profit 387.5 434.2 +12.1% As of sales 19.1% 19.1% Net profit attributable to the Group 275.9 293.3 +6.3% As of sales 13,6% 12.9% Free cash flow 146.1 188.1 +28.7% As of sales 7.2% 8.3% Net financial debt at March 31 2,270.3 3,031.6 +33.5% (1) See appendices to this press release for definitions and indicator reconciliation tables (2) At 2024 scope of consolidation

Consolidated sales

In the first quarter of 2025, sales grew +12.3% from the same period of 2024, to reach 2,277.8 million.

In a contrasted market, sales were up organically by +7.6% for the quarter, including +9.3% in mature countries and +2.4% in new economies.

The impact of broader scope of consolidation was +3.3% for the quarter. Based on acquisitions made and their likely dates of consolidation, their overall impact should be more than +4% full year.

The exchange-rate effect on sales in the first quarter of 2025 was +1.0%. Based on average exchange rates in April 2025, the full-year effect would be close to -2% in 2025.

Changes in sales by destination at constant scope of consolidation and exchange rates broke down as follows by region:

1st quarter 2025 1st quarter 2024 Europe -0.3% North and Central America +18.7% Rest of the world +4.8% Total +7.6%

These changes are analyzed below by geographical region:

Europe (40.9% of Group revenue): with a building market that remains sluggish overall in most countries, sales at constant scope of consolidation and exchange rates were down -0.3% in the first quarter of 2025.

Europe's mature countries (36.0% of Group revenue) reported sales up +0.9% organically in the first quarter, with strong growth in countries including Spain, the UK and Germany, partly offset by negative trends in France or Scandinavia.

Sales in Europe's new economies were down -8.1% in the first quarter, notably including a marked decline in Turkey.

North and Central America (40.8% of Group revenue): sales are up +18.7% from the first quarter of 2024 at constant scope of consolidation and exchange rates.

In the United States alone (37.7% of Group revenue), sales rose a sharp +20.2%. This rise was driven by the outstanding performance of our dedicated datacenter offerings.

Sales rose sharply in Mexico and saw a slight decline in Canada.

Rest of the world (18.2% of Group revenue): sales marked an organic growth of +4.8% in the first quarter of 2025.

In Asia-Pacific (11.4% of Group revenue), sales were up +7.1%, with growth in India and a slight retreat in China.

In Africa and the Middle East (3.1% of Group revenue), revenue rose by +7.7%, reflecting robust growth in the Middle East and stable sales in Africa.

In South America (3.7% of Group revenue), sales retreated by -3.3%, mainly due to Brazil.

Adjusted operating profit and margin

Adjusted operating profit for the first quarter of 2025 stood at 470.4 million, up +13.1% from the first three months of 2024. This corresponds to an adjusted operating margin equal to 20.7% of sales for the period.

Before acquisitions, adjusted operating margin for the first quarter of 2025 was equal to 20.7% of sales, up +0.2 points from the first quarter of 2024.

In the quarter, the high profitability level of the Group demonstrates the strength of Legrand's strategic model and its strong ability to deliver.

The Group is fully mobilized to respond to the rapidly changing situation of international customs policies, particularly in the United States. To this end, Legrand is deploying a comprehensive action plan that includes targeted sales price increases, savings plans, supply chains adjustments, well-considered industrial footprint adaptation, and more.

Value creation and solid balance sheet

Net profit attributable to the Group came to 293.3 million, up +6.3% from the first quarter of 2024 and equal to 12.9% of sales. This evolution is due primarily to an increase in operating profit, partially offset by the negative impact of the financial result, and a corporate income tax rate of 28.0%, up +2 points in the first quarter of 2025.

Net earnings per share stood at 1.12, for an increase of +6.2% from the first quarter of 2024.

Free cash flow came to 8.3% of sales over the period at a total of 188.1 million.

The ratio of net debt to EBITDA4 stood at 1.5 on March 31, 2025.

Continued execution of strategic plan to 2030

Outstanding performance in datacenters

Legrand is a leading player in datacenters, which already accounted for 20% of Group sales5 in 2024, and posted an accelerating organic growth in the first quarter of 2025.

The vitality of the order book confirms the strong growth expected throughout 2025.

This performance testifies to the relevance of the Group's offerings, which are highly configurable and critical in terms of continuity and performance for all types of datacenters.

Buoyant acquisition activity

Legrand is actively implementing its development strategy and has announced two acquisitions since the beginning of the year

Performation, a Dutch specialist of connected health software with over 140 employees, and annual sales of over 20 million; and

Computer Room Solutions (CRS), a leading Australian player in the white space infrastructure for datacenters, with annual revenue of around 30 million and nearly 80 employees.

These acquisitions in datacenters and connected health further strengthen the Group's leadership in these buoyant segments and illustrate once again the vitality of the pipeline and the quality of its acquisitions process.

Launch of the 6th CSR roadmap covering 2025-20276

At the investor event held on March 25, 2025, Legrand launched its sixth CSR roadmap, covering five priorities over 2025-2027: promoting diversity and inclusion, mitigating climate change (in line with the Group's SBTi commitment), developing a more circular economy, serving our customers and being a responsible business.

This roadmap is fully integrated into the Group's performance and value-creation strategy, and is considered a decisive competitive advantage for Legrand.

Combined General Meeting of Shareholders on May 27, 2025

Board of Directors7

Patrick Koller and Florent Menegaux's terms of office as directors end this year. Both will be proposed for new mandates at the next General Meeting of shareholders.

In addition, on the recommendation of the Nominating and Governance Committee and after approval by the Board of Directors, the General Meeting will also vote on the appointment of Stephane Pallez as an independent director. Stephane Pallez's experience as Chair and Chief Executive Officer of the listed Group FDJ United, will make her a valuable asset on the Board of Directors.

Following these appointments, the Board of Directors, with 82% independent Directors, 55% women and 7 nationalities represented, would continue to reflect the industry's best practices8

Proposed dividend

As announced on February 13, 2025, Legrand's Board of Directors will ask the General Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 27, 2025 to approve the payment of a dividend of 2.20 per share in respect of 20249, representing a rise of +5% from 2023.

The Board adopted consolidated financial statements for first-quarter 2025 at its meeting on May 6, 2025. These consolidated financial statements, a presentation of 2025 first-quarter results, and the related teleconference (live and replay) are available at www.legrandgroup.com.

Key financial dates

General Meeting of Shareholders: May 27, 2025

Ex-dividend date: May 29, 2025

Dividend payment: June 2, 2025

2025 first-half results: July 31, 2025

"Quiet period10" starts: July 1, 2025

About Legrand

Legrand is the global specialist in electrical and digital building infrastructures. Its comprehensive offering of solutions for residential, commercial, and datacenter markets makes it a benchmark for customers worldwide.

The Group harnesses technological and societal trends with lasting impacts on buildings with the purpose of improving life by transforming the spaces where people live, work and meet with electrical, digital infrastructures and connected solutions that are simple, innovative and sustainable.

Drawing on an approach that involves all teams and stakeholders, Legrand is pursuing a strategy of profitable and responsible growth driven by acquisitions and innovation, with a steady flow of new offerings that include products with enhanced value in use (energy and digital transition solutions: datacenters, digital lifestyles and energy transition offerings).

Legrand reported sales of 8.6 billion in 2024. The company is listed on Euronext Paris and is a component stock of the CAC 40, CAC 40 ESG and CAC SBT 1.5 indexes. (code ISIN FR0010307819).

https://www.legrandgroup.com

Appendices

Glossary

Adjusted operating profit: Adjusted operating profit is defined as operating profit adjusted for: i/ amortization and depreciation of revaluation of assets at the time of acquisitions and for other P&L impacts relating to acquisitions, ii/ impacts related to disengagement from Russia (impairment of assets and effective disposal) and, iii/ where applicable, impairment of goodwill.

Cash flow from operations: Cash flow from operations is defined as net cash from operating activities excluding changes in working capital requirement.

CSR: Corporate Social Responsibility.

EBITDA: EBITDA is defined as operating profit plus depreciation and impairment of tangible and right of use assets, amortization and impairment of intangible assets (including capitalized development costs), reversal of inventory step-up and impairment of goodwill.

Free cash flow: Free cash flow is defined as the sum of net cash from operating activities and net proceeds from sales of fixed and financial assets, less capital expenditure and capitalized development costs.

Net financial debt: Net financial debt is defined as the sum of short-term borrowings and long-term borrowings, less cash and cash equivalents and marketable securities.

Organic growth: Organic growth is defined as the change in sales at constant structure (scope of consolidation) and exchange rates.

Payout: Payout is defined as the ratio between the proposed dividend per share for a given year, divided by the net profit attributable to the Group per share of the same year, calculated on the basis of the average number of ordinary shares at December 31 of that year, excluding shares held in treasury.

Working capital requirement: Working capital requirement is defined as the sum of trade receivables, inventories, other current assets, income tax receivables and short-term deferred tax assets, less the sum of trade payables, other current liabilities, income tax payables, short-term provisions and short-term deferred tax liabilities.

Calculation of working capital requirement

In millions Q1 2024 Q1 2025 Trade receivables 1,125.2 1,278.9 Inventories 1,288.1 1,381.9 Other current assets 297.7 318.8 Income tax receivables 187.8 187.5 Short-term deferred taxes assets/(liabilities) 111.9 135.1 Trade payables (921.9) (1,028.3) Other current liabilities (856.7) (963.1) Income tax payables (107.3) (94.9) Short-term provisions (155.1) (158.3) Working capital required 969.7 1,057.6

Calculation of net financial debt

In millions Q1 2024 Q1 2025 Short-term borrowings 1,005.0 569.5 Long-term borrowings 3,974.6 4,750.4 Cash and cash equivalents (2,709.3) (2,288.3) Net financial debt 2,270.3 3,031.6

Reconciliation of adjusted operating profit with profit for the period

In millions Q1 2024 Q1 2025 Profit for the period 276.1 294.3 Share of profits (losses) of equity-accounted entities 0.0 0.0 Income tax expense 97.0 114.5 Exchange (gains) losses 9.0 5.1 Financial income (29.0) (17.6) Financial expense 34.4 37.9 Operating profit 387.5 434.2 Amortization depreciation of revaluation of assets at the time of acquisitions and other P&L impacts relating to acquisitions 28.4 36.2 Impairment of goodwill 0.0 0.0 Adjusted operating profit 415.9 470.4

Reconciliation of EBITDA with profit for the period

In millions Q1 2024 Q1 2025 Profit for the period 276.1 294.3 Share of profits (losses) of equity-accounted entities 0.0 0.0 Income tax expense 97.0 114.5 Exchange (gains) losses 9.0 5.1 Financial income (29.0) (17.6) Financial expense 34.4 37.9 Operating profit 387.5 434.2 Depreciation and impairment of tangible assets (including right-of-use assets) 51.7 55.2 Amortization and impairment of intangible assets (including capitalized development costs) 31.9 38.7 Impairment of goodwill 0.0 0.0 EBITDA 471.1 528.1

Reconciliation of cash flow from operations and free cash flow with profit for the period

In millions Q1 2024 Q1 2025 Profit for the period 276.1 294.3 Adjustments for non-cash movements in assets and liabilities: Depreciation, amortization and impairment 84.7 95.2 Changes in other non-current assets and liabilities and long-term deferred Taxes 11.3 9.7 Unrealized exchange (gains)/losses 2.9 (0.1) (Gains)/losses on sales of assets, net 2.4 0.2 Other adjustments 6.4 7.0 Cash flow from operations 383.8 406.3 Decrease (Increase) in working capital requirement (205.0) (185.3) Net cash provided from operating activities 178.8 221.0 Capital expenditure (including capitalized development costs) (32.9) (33.2) Net proceeds from sales of fixed and financial assets 0.2 0.3 Free cash flow 146.1 188.1

Scope of consolidation

2024 Q1 H1 9M Full-year Full consolidation method MSS Balance sheet only 6 months 9 months 12 months ZPE Systems Balance sheet only Balance sheet only Balance sheet only 12 months Enovation Balance sheet only Balance sheet only 7 months Netrack Balance sheet only Balance sheet only 9 months Davenham Balance sheet only Balance sheet only 6 months Vass Balance sheet only Balance sheet only 7 months UPSistemas Balance sheet only Balance sheet only APP Balance sheet only Power Bus Way Balance sheet only Circul'R Balance sheet only

2025 Q1 H1 9M Full-year Full consolidation method MSS 3 months 6 months 9 months 12 months ZPE Systems 3 months 6 months 9 months 12 months Enovation 3 months 6 months 9 months 12 months Netrack 3 months 6 months 9 months 12 months Davenham 3 months 6 months 9 months 12 months Vass 3 months 6 months 9 months 12 months UPSistemas 3 months 6 months 9 months 12 months APP Balance sheet only To be determined To be determined To be determined Power Bus Way Balance sheet only To be determined To be determined To be determined Circul'R Balance sheet only To be determined To be determined To be determined Performation Balance sheet only To be determined To be determined To be determined CRS Balance sheet only To be determined To be determined To be determined

Disclaimer

This press release may contain forward-looking statements which are not historical data. Although Legrand considers these statements to be based on reasonable assumptions at the time of publication of this release, they are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed or implied herein.

Details on risks are provided in the most recent version of Legrand Universal Registration Document filed with the Autorite des marches financiers (French Financial Markets Authority, AMF), which is available on-line on the websites of both AMF (www.amf-france.org) and Legrand (www.legrandgroup.com).

Investors and holders of Legrand securities are reminded that no forward-looking statement contained in this press release is or should be construed as a promise or a guarantee of actual results by Legrand or anyone else, which are liable to differ significantly. Therefore, such statements should be used with caution, taking into account their inherent uncertainty.

The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are only valid on the date of its publication. Subject to applicable regulations, Legrand does not undertake to update these statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of publication of this release.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy Legrand securities in any jurisdiction.

1 After taking into consideration 12 months of turnover for the companies acquired over the year

2 For more information, see the Legrand press release dated February 13, 2025

3 For further information, please refer to documents published in the CSR Capital Markets Day 2025 Legrand section

4 Based on EBITDA for the past 12 months

5 After taking into consideration 12 months of turnover for the companies acquired over the year

6 For further information, please refer to documents published in the CSR Capital Markets Day 2025 Legrand section

7 Subject to the approval of the General Meeting of shareholders to be held on May 27, 2025

8 Proposed changes to the composition of Board Committees are set out in chapter 6.1.1.1 of the universal registration document Legrand_URD_2024_ENGLISH

9 The ex-dividend date is May 29, 2025, with payment on June 2, 2025. This distribution will be made in full out of distributable income

10 Period of time when all communication is suspended in the run-up to publication of results

Readers are invited to verify the authenticity of Legrand press releases with the CertiDox app. Learn more at www.certidox.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250506398505/en/

Contacts:

Investor Relations Financial Communication

Ronan MARC (Legrand)

+33 1 49 72 53 53. ronan.marc@legrand.com

Press Relations

Lucie DAUDIGNY (TBWA)

+33 6 77 20 71 11. lucie.daudigny@tbwa-corporate.com
(non audited IFRS data)

SOLID FIRST QUARTER 2025, GUIDANCE FULLY CONFIRMED

Solid Q1 2025, in line with our annual guidance , despite macroeconomic uncertainty, thanks to Veolia's winning formula of resilience and growth

, despite macroeconomic uncertainty, thanks to Veolia's winning formula of Sustained Revenue growth of +3.9% (1) to 11,507M with a good start to the year in Water, in Waste and in Energy.

with a good start to the year in Water, in Waste and in Energy. Solid operating performance, with an organic growth of EBITDA of +5.5% (2) to 1,695M , fueled by revenue growth, operational efficiency and synergies in-line with targets.

, fueled by revenue growth, operational efficiency and synergies in-line with targets. Net financial debt (3) well under control at 18,855M, i.e. a 2.75x leverage ratio, compared to 2.88x last year.

at 18,855M, i.e. a 2.75x leverage ratio, compared to 2.88x last year. Acquisition of CDPQ's 30% stake in Water Technologies and Solutions for $1.75bn (~1.5bn) , allowing to accelerate value creation in this booster activity of GreenUp plan, corresponding to a ~11x EBITDA multiple post synergies of ~90M per year by 2027.

, allowing to accelerate value creation in this booster activity of GreenUp plan, corresponding to a ~11x EBITDA multiple post synergies of ~90M per year by 2027. 2025 guidance and GreenUp plan fully confirmed.

Regulatory News:

Veolia Environnement (Paris:VIE):

Estelle Brachlianoff, CEO of the Group,stated

"In the first quarter of 2025, Veolia once again demonstrated the relevance of its business model, which combines resilience and growth, by achieving solid results despite an environment marked by macroeconomic uncertainty and persistent external challenges.

EBITDA increased by +5.5%(2), driven by revenue growth, efficiency gains and the continuation of synergies, in line with our annual objectives and the trajectory of the GreenUp strategic plan.

These achievements confirm our ability to generate sustainable growth, thanks to our multilocal and diversified geographical footprint, as well as our unique mix of activities. The combination of expertise and technologies in water, energy and waste, allows us to offer our clients essential services to protect public health, purchasing power, the competitiveness of industries and the supply of strategic resources.

The growth of our "booster" activities thus rose to +7.2% thanks to the integration of new local energy assets and the excellent performance of hazardous waste.

The implementation of the GreenUp plan continues successfully with the major operation signed today for the acquisition of the 30% minority stake of CDPQ in WTS. This acquisition strengthens us in Water Technologies, a "growth booster" and a segment in which we are already a leader, as well as in our international footprint, particularly in North America.

By taking 100% control, we will be able to unleash the full potential of this activity, both in terms of growth and performance, and thus secure the creation of sustainable value for the Group."

(1) At constant scope and forex and excluding energy prices (2) At constant scope and forex (3) Before Suez PPA

Sustained Revenue growth of +3.9%1 to 11,507M:

Boosters (2) , including new power flexibility assets in Hungary, were up +7.2% (1) , while Strongholds (3) grew by +3.9% (1)

, including new power flexibility assets in Hungary, were up +7.2% , while Strongholds grew by +3.9% Strong growth in Water (+2.4% (4) ) and Waste (+3.7% (4) ). Revenue increase of +5.3% (1) in Energy, while maintaining a very high level of profitability

) and Waste (+3.7% ). Revenue increase of +5.3% in Energy, while maintaining a very high level of profitability Including the impact of lower energy prices, total Group Revenue is up by +1.5%(4)

Solid Operational Performance: EBITDA of 1,695M, an organic growth of +5.5%(4), in the target range of +5% to +6%(4), and margin increase of +60bps:

91M of efficiency gains, in line with the annual target of 350M.

25M of synergies, i.e. a cumulative amount of 460M at the end of March 2025, in line with revised target of 530M by the end of 2025

Current EBIT(5) up +8.4 %(4), to 915M.

Dynamic capital allocation policy leading to value creation:

Opening of Tahwill hazardous waste treatment facility in Saudi Arabia

Closing of the acquisition of power flexibility assets in Hungary

Net financial debt(5) under control at 18,855M, i.e. a 2.75x leverage ratio, compared to 2,88x last year.

2025 guidance and GreenUp Plan 2024-27 fully confirmed.

Key figures Q1 2025

In M Q1 2024 Q1 2025 Variation Revenue 11,556 11,507 +1.5% at constant scope and forex +3.9% and excluding energy prices EBITDA 1,624 1,695 +5.5% at constant scope and forex EBITDA margin 14.1% 14.7% +60bps Current EBIT(5) 843 915 +8.4% at constant scope and forex Net Financial Debt(5) 18,997 18,855 Leverage ratio(5) 2.88x 2.75x

___________________________________ 1 At constant scope and forex and excluding energy prices 2 Boosters: water technologies, hazardous waste, bioenergies, flexibility and energy efficiency 3 Strongholds: municipal water, solid waste, district heating and cooling networks 4 At constant scope and forex 5 Before Suez PPA

Detailed results at 31 March 2025

Group consolidated revenue amounted to 11,507 million euros at March 31, 2025. It increased by +1.5% on a like-for-like basis, and by +3.9% excluding the impact of energy prices, which mainly affected Europe excluding France.

Revenue growth by effect breaks down as follows:

The currency effect was +42 million euros (+0.4%), mainly reflecting improvement in the US, Polish and UK currencies, offset by depreciation of Argentinian and Hungarian currencies (6)

was +42 million euros (+0.4%), mainly reflecting improvement in the US, Polish and UK currencies, offset by depreciation of Argentinian and Hungarian currencies The perimeter effect of -271 million euros (-2.3%) mainly includes the impact of the disposals of SADE on February 29, 2024, of RGS (North America) on August 1st, 2024 and of Lydec on September 4th, 2024, partly offset by the acquisition of power flexibility assets in Hungary on January 6th, 2025.

of -271 million euros (-2.3%) mainly includes the impact of the disposals of SADE on February 29, 2024, of RGS (North America) on August 1st, 2024 and of Lydec on September 4th, 2024, partly offset by the acquisition of power flexibility assets in Hungary on January 6th, 2025. The commodity price effect (corresponding to changes in energy and recyclate prices) amounted to -253 million euros (-2.2%), due to lower energy prices (-270 million euros), mainly in Central and Eastern Europe, slightly attenuated by the positive effect of recyclate prices (+16 million euros).

(corresponding to changes in energy and recyclate prices) amounted to -253 million euros (-2.2%), due to lower energy prices (-270 million euros), mainly in Central and Eastern Europe, slightly attenuated by the positive effect of recyclate prices (+16 million euros). The climate effect amounted to +110 million euros (+1.0%), mainly in Central and Eastern Europe, due to a colder winter this beginning of the year compared to 2024.

amounted to +110 million euros (+1.0%), mainly in Central and Eastern Europe, due to a colder winter this beginning of the year compared to 2024. The Commerce / Volumes Works effect amounted to +147 million euros (+1.3%), driven by good commercial momentum, healthy water and waste volumes, as well as construction work progress.

effect amounted to +147 million euros (+1.3%), driven by good commercial momentum, healthy water and waste volumes, as well as construction work progress. Favorable price effects amounted to +175 million euros (+1.5%), mainly due to tariff indexations and price increases in water and waste activities.

The organic growth of revenues by operating segments is as follows:

In M Q1 2024 Q1 2025 Variation

at constant scope and forex France and Special Waste Europe 2,318 2,153 +0.1% Europe excluding France 5,147 5,351 +0.6%/+5.5% excluding energy prices Rest of the world 2,932 2,845 +5.0% Water Technologies 1,156 1,156 -0.1% TOTAL 11,556 11,507 +1.5%/+3.9% excluding energy prices

Revenues in France and Special Waste Europe amounted to 2,153 million euros and showed organic growth of +0.1% compared to March 31, 2024.

________________________________ 6 Main currency impacts: US dollar (+37 millions euros), Polish zloty (+31 millions euros) and British pound (+19 millions euros), offset by Argentinian peso (-17 millions euros) and Hungarian forint (-16 millions euros) .

Water France sales of 721 million euros were up +2.1% on a like-for-like basis, mainly fueled by business development following contract awards.

sales of 721 million euros were up +2.1% on a like-for-like basis, mainly fueled by business development following contract awards. Sales of Waste France amounted to 706 million euros. It decreased by -3.8% on a like-for-like basis due to lower landfill volumes and a decrease in electrical turnover, partially offset by tariff revisions.

amounted to 706 million euros. It decreased by -3.8% on a like-for-like basis due to lower landfill volumes and a decrease in electrical turnover, partially offset by tariff revisions. Special Waste Europe sales reached 587 million euros, up +5.1% on a like-for-like basis. This performance was mainly driven by the tariff revaluation in the hazardous waste treatment segment, as well as by the favorable dynamics of storage and incineration activities.

Revenues in Europe excluding France reached 5,351 million euros at March 31, 2025, an organic variation of +0.6%, due to lower energy prices than in 2024. Excluding the effect of energy prices, revenues rose by +5.5%.

In Central and Eastern Europe , sales stood at 3,298 million euros, down -2.4% on a like-for-like basis. This decrease was mainly driven by lower energy prices, partially offset by a favorable climate effect due to a colder winter than last year. Waste activity in Germany continued its favorable momentum, driven by the increase in processions operations and higher recycled paper and cardboard prices vs. March 31, 2024.

, sales stood at 3,298 million euros, down -2.4% on a like-for-like basis. This decrease was mainly driven by lower energy prices, partially offset by a favorable climate effect due to a colder winter than last year. Waste activity in Germany continued its favorable momentum, driven by the increase in processions operations and higher recycled paper and cardboard prices vs. March 31, 2024. In Northern Europe , revenues of 1,056 million euros rose by +1.9% on a like-for-like basis. This increase was mainly attributable to good performance in Belux and in the United Kingdom, in the Energy and Waste activities, which benefited from tariff indexation and from very good incineration plant availability.

, revenues of 1,056 million euros rose by +1.9% on a like-for-like basis. This increase was mainly attributable to good performance in Belux and in the United Kingdom, in the Energy and Waste activities, which benefited from tariff indexation and from very good incineration plant availability. In Iberia , sales stood at 692 million euros, up +9.4% on a like-for-like basis. This growth was driven by Water activities which benefit from increases in rates and well oriented volumes. Energy activities were also growing, linked to contract gains and work.

, sales stood at 692 million euros, up +9.4% on a like-for-like basis. This growth was driven by Water activities which benefit from increases in rates and well oriented volumes. Energy activities were also growing, linked to contract gains and work. Italy generated revenues of 304 million euros, up +12.5% on a like-for-like basis, mainly due to lower energy prices, relying particularly on a strong commercial activity in Energy.

Revenues in the Rest of the world reached 2,845 million euros, an organic growth of +5.0%, up in all geographies.

Latin America Revenue stood at 509 million euros in, up +12.5% on a like-for-like basis. This growth was driven by the good performances of Brazil, Colombia and Argentina.

Revenue stood at 509 million euros in, up +12.5% on a like-for-like basis. This growth was driven by the good performances of Brazil, Colombia and Argentina. In Africa Middle-East, revenues totaled 417 million euros, up +3.6% on a like-for-like basis, mainly driven by the increase in activity in Morocco and the growth of energy services in the Middle East.

revenues totaled 417 million euros, up +3.6% on a like-for-like basis, mainly driven by the increase in activity in Morocco and the growth of energy services in the Middle East. In North America , revenues reached 741 million euros, up +3.1% on a like-for-like basis. This evolution was mainly driven by the Hazardous Waste activity, supported by a good commercial momentum with price increases, as well as the Regulated Water activity with favorable price increases.

, revenues reached 741 million euros, up +3.1% on a like-for-like basis. This evolution was mainly driven by the Hazardous Waste activity, supported by a good commercial momentum with price increases, as well as the Regulated Water activity with favorable price increases. Sales in Asia amounted to 674 million euros, up +4.1% on a like-for-like basis. This progress mainly came from the good performance in China across all activities, from municipal water in Japan (price increases on contract renewals), from the energy activity in Taiwan, and from solid waste in Hong Kong, particularly thanks to the good performance of landfills.

amounted to 674 million euros, up +4.1% on a like-for-like basis. This progress mainly came from the good performance in China across all activities, from municipal water in Japan (price increases on contract renewals), from the energy activity in Taiwan, and from solid waste in Hong Kong, particularly thanks to the good performance of landfills. In the Pacific region, sales of 505 million euros were up +3.4% on a like-for-like basis. This progress was mainly driven by the good performance of municipal collections, the activities of liquid and hazardous waste treatment, organic waste, as well as soil remediation activities.

The Water Technologies activity reported sales of 1,156 million euros, stable versus 2024, due to a high comparison basis.

The organic growth of revenues by business is as follows:

In M Q1 2024 Q1 2025 Variation at constant scope and forex Water 4,343 4,155 +2.4% Municipal Water 3,186 2,999 +3.3% Water Technologies 1,156 1,156 -0.1% Waste 3,746 3,811 +3.7% Solid Waste 2,662 2,739 +3.0% Hazardous Waste 1,083 1,071 +5.6% Energy 3,468 3,541 -1.9%/+5.3% excluding energy prices District Heating and Cooling Networks 2,409 2,309 -5.3%/+4.9% excluding energy prices Bioenergies, Flexibility and Energy Efficiency 1,060 1,232 +5.8%/+6.1% excluding energy prices TOTAL 11,556 11,507 +1.5%/+3.9% excluding energy prices

Sales in the Water activity rose by +2.4% on a like-for-like basis, driven by price increases of +1.8%, volume growth and good commercial momentum of +0.6%.

Sales of stronghold Municipal Water grew by +3.3% on a like-for-like basis, with tariff increases in most geographies (particularly in Spain, Central and Eastern Europe and North America) and a favourable commercial effect.

grew by +3.3% on a like-for-like basis, with tariff increases in most geographies (particularly in Spain, Central and Eastern Europe and North America) and a favourable commercial effect. Sales in the Water Technology and New Solutions booster business were globally stable, due to a high comparison basis.

Sales for Waste activity revenues increased by +3.7?% on a like-for-like basis,thanks to favorable price revisions (+2.7%), slightly higher recyclate prices (+0.4%) and a positive Commerce/Volume/Works effect (+1.2%).

Sales in the stronghold Solid Waste Management core business were up +3.0% on a like-for-like basis. This growth was mainly driven by a positive commercial momentum in Germany and in Asia, notably in Hong Kong. The activity also benefited from favourable price revisions, particularly in the UK and Australia.

Management core business were up +3.0% on a like-for-like basis. This growth was mainly driven by a positive commercial momentum in Germany and in Asia, notably in Hong Kong. The activity also benefited from favourable price revisions, particularly in the UK and Australia. Sales by the Hazardous Waste treatment booster rose by +5.6% on a like-for-like basis, driven mainly by France and Special Waste Europe and North America.

Energy sales were down -1.9% on a like-for-like basis, but up +5.3% excluding the impact of energy prices. The unfavourable energy price effect of -7.2% was partially offset by a favorable climate impact of +3.2% and by the commerce/volume effect of +2.2%.

Sales in the stronghold District Heating and Cooling Networks , mainly located in Central and Eastern Europe, rose by +4.9% on a like-for-like basis after eliminating the impact of energy prices. This growth was driven by good volumes combined with a favorable climate effect.

, mainly located in Central and Eastern Europe, rose by +4.9% on a like-for-like basis after eliminating the impact of energy prices. This growth was driven by good volumes combined with a favorable climate effect. Revenue of the Bioenergies, Flexibility and Energy Efficiency booster business grew by +6.1% on a like-for-like basis, excluding the impact of energy prices, thanks to strong sales momentum in Spain, Belgium and the Middle East.

EBITDA growth to 1,695M compared with 1,624M at March 31, 2024, i.e. +5.5% organic growth

EBITDA benefited from organic revenue growth of +3.9% excluding energy prices, from operational efficiency (92 million euros of gains generated), and from Suez synergies (25 million euros).

The currency impact on EBITDA amounted to +11 million euros (+0.7%). This mainly reflects the appreciation of the Polish and US currencies (7)

on EBITDA amounted to +11 million euros (+0.7%). This mainly reflects the appreciation of the Polish and US currencies The perimeter impact of -30 million euros (-1.8?%) mainly includes the impact of the disposals of SADE on February 29, 2024, of RGS (North America) on August 1st, 2024 and of Lydec on September 4th, 2024, partly offset by the acquisition of power flexibility assets in Hungary on January 6th, 2025.

of -30 million euros (-1.8?%) mainly includes the impact of the disposals of SADE on February 29, 2024, of RGS (North America) on August 1st, 2024 and of Lydec on September 4th, 2024, partly offset by the acquisition of power flexibility assets in Hungary on January 6th, 2025. Changes in commodity prices (energy and recycled materials) had a net unfavorable impact on EBITDA of -13 million euros (-0.8%), mainly due to lower energy prices (-20 million euros), partially offset by an increase in recycled materials prices.

(energy and recycled materials) had a net unfavorable impact on EBITDA of -13 million euros (-0.8%), mainly due to lower energy prices (-20 million euros), partially offset by an increase in recycled materials prices. The climate impact was +16 million euros (+1.0%), mainly in Central and Eastern Europe, due to a colder winter in the first quarter 2025.

was +16 million euros (+1.0%), mainly in Central and Eastern Europe, due to a colder winter in the first quarter 2025. The Commerce/Volumes/Works effect was favorable at +22 million euros (+1.4%).

effect was favorable at +22 million euros (+1.4%). Efficiency net of gains shared with customers, contract renegotiations and time lag effects on the passing on of costs generated 38 million euros (+2.3%) in additional EBITDA. This represents a retention rate of 42% out of 91 million euros generated by the Group as part of its efficiency plan in the first quarter 2025, in line with the annual target of 350 million euros.

net of gains shared with customers, contract renegotiations and time lag effects on the passing on of costs generated 38 million euros (+2.3%) in additional EBITDA. This represents a retention rate of 42% out of 91 million euros generated by the Group as part of its efficiency plan in the first quarter 2025, in line with the annual target of 350 million euros. Synergies generated by the integration of Suez amounted to 25 million euros in the first quarter 2025, thanks in particular to optimization in purchasing and in the Water technologies activities. These new synergies, together with those already realized in 2022 to 2024, amounted to 460 million euros. This performance is perfectly in line with the objective of cumulated synergies raised to 530 million euros by the end of 2025.

Current EBIT(8) growth of +8.4% at 915M, at constant scope and forex

The increase in current EBIT(8) compared with March 31, 2024 at constant scope and forex amounted to +70 million euros (+8.4%), and was mainly due to:

a strong growth in EBITDA (+89 million euros at constant scope and forex);

a rise in amortization (8) , including the repayment of operating financial assets (-5 millions euros on a like-for-like basis);

, including the repayment of operating financial assets (-5 millions euros on a like-for-like basis); the decrease of "provisions net of capital gains on disposals, and others" (-8 million euros at constant scope and forex).

The currency effect on current EBIT(8) was positive by +9 million euros and mainly reflected the change in Polish zloty for +5 million euros.

___________________________________ 7 Main currency impacts: Polish zloty (+6 million euros) and US dollar (+4 million euros) 8 Before Suez PPA

Guidance 2025 fully confirmed Solid organic growth of revenue (1) (2)

Organic growth (1) of EBITDA between +5% and +6%

of EBITDA between +5% and +6% Efficiency gains above 350M complemented by synergies for a cumulated amount raised to 530M end 2025

Growth of current net income Group share (3) of around +9% (4)

of around +9% Leverage ratio expected below 3x (3)

Dividend growth in line with Current EPS Group share(3) growth (1) At constant scope and forex (2) Excluding energy prices (3) Before Suez PPA (4) At constant forex

GreenUp 2024-2027 targets fully confirmed Solid revenue growth (1)

Over 8bn of EBITDA in 2027

350M savings per year

10% (2) annual growth in current net income Group share (3) over 2023-2027

annual growth in current net income Group share over 2023-2027 Leverage ratio 3x (3)

Dividend growth in line with current EPS Group share(3) (1) Excluding energy prices (2) At constant forex (3) Before Suez PPA

Agenda 25 June 2025: Deep-dive on Waste activities in France

31 July 2025: H1 2025 Results

September/October 2025: Presentation on Innovation, Technologies and AI

6 November 2025: 9M 2025 Key figures

25 November 2025: Inauguration of Poznan cogeneration facility in Poland

This press release presents the key figures for the first quarter of 2025. The operating and financial review, as approved by the Board of Directors, in its meeting held on 6 May 2025, is available on Veolia's website at https://www.veolia.com/en/veolia-group/finance.

ABOUT VEOLIA

Veolia group aims to become the benchmark company for ecological transformation. Present on five continents with 215,000 employees, the Group designs and deploys useful, practical solutions for the management of water, waste and energy that are contributing to a radical turnaround of the current situation. Through its three complementary activities, Veolia helps to develop access to resources, to preserve available resources and to renew them. In 2024, the Veolia group provided 111 million inhabitants with drinking water and 98 million with sanitation, produced 42 million megawatt hours of energy and treated 65 million tonnes of waste. Veolia Environnement (Paris Euronext: VIE) achieved consolidated revenue of 44.7 billion euros in 2024. www.veolia.com

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER

Veolia Environnement is a corporation listed on the Euronext Paris. This press release contains "forward-looking statements' within the meaning of the provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results may differ materially from the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside our control, including but not limited to: the risk of suffering reduced profits or losses as a result of intense competition, the risk that changes in energy prices and taxes may reduce Veolia Environnement's profits, the risk that governmental authorities could terminate or modify some of Veolia Environnement's contracts, the risk that acquisitions may not provide the benefits that Veolia Environnement hopes to achieve, the risks related to customary provisions of divestiture transactions, the risk that Veolia Environnement's compliance with environmental laws may become more costly in the future, the risk that currency exchange rate fluctuations may negatively affect Veolia Environnement's financial results and the price of its shares, the risk that Veolia Environnement may incur environmental liability in connection with its past, present and future operations, as well as the other risks described in the documents Veolia Environnement has filed with the Autorite des Marches Financiers (French securities regulator). Veolia Environnement does not undertake, nor does it have, any obligation to provide updates or to revise any forward-looking statements. Investors and security holders may obtain from Veolia Environnement a free copy of documents it filed (www.veolia.com) with the Autorites des marches financiers.

This document contains "non-GAAP financial measures". These "non-GAAP financial measures" might be defined differently from similar financial measures made public by other groups and should not replace GAAP financial measures prepared pursuant to IFRS standards.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250506690848/en/

Contacts:

MEDIA RELATIONS

Laurent Obadia Evgeniya Mazalova

Charline Bouchereau Anna Beaubatie

Aurelien Sarrosquy

Tel.+ 33 (0) 1 85 57 86 25

presse.groupe@veolia.com

INVESTORS RELATIONS

Selma Bekhechi Ariane de Lamaze

Tel. 33 (0) 1 85 57 84 76 84 80

investor-relations@veolia.com
RSA, the security-first identity leader, announced groundbreaking cybersecurity innovations last week at RSAC Conference 2025 that defend organisations against the next wave of AI powered identity attacks, including IT Help Desk bypasses, malware, social engineering, and other threats. These advancements are especially critical for organisations implementing passwordless strategies and further solidify RSA's position as the only provider of true, enterprise-ready passwordless identity solutions.

Among the highlights is the new RSA Help Desk Live Verify (patent pending), a first-of-its-kind feature that prevents social engineering and technical support scams. With bi-directional identity verification, RSA Help Desk Live Verify ensures that both users and IT staff are who they say they are, protecting against attackers impersonating users or help desk agents.

"Passwordless approaches offer tantalizing business benefits like improved user experience and cost savings, but as with any new technology passwordless also introduce new risks into the environment. RSA's platform offers the only enterprise worthy passwordless solution that has security and resilience designed in to address those risks," said RSA CEO Rohit Ghai. "Off-the-shelf passwordless isn't good enough for government departments, financial services, and other security-first leaders."

A New Enterprise Ready Passwordless Platform

RSA is approaching passwordless as a broader platform capability and not simply a convenient new form of authentication. While many vendors offer surface-level point products, RSA delivers comprehensive protection, unmatched resilience, and complete governance-addressing the full lifecycle and all users, from cloud to on-premises.

"Only RSA can provide a complete passwordless solution that accounts for every user, use case, and environment," said Jim Taylor, Chief Product and Technology Officer at RSA. "Organisations need comprehensive, enterprise-grade capabilities that are ready for social engineering, fraud, outages, and deepfakes-and RSA is delivering exactly that."

"RSA provides high-security organizations across the UK with the market's only hybrid authentication and access capabilities they need to operate securely, build resilience, and meet DORA and NIS2 requirements," said Alaa Abdulnabi, RSA SVP and General Manager, International.

For a passwordless solution to work for enterprises, it must work for every user, in every environment, against every threat, and in every situation. Unlike cloud-first or hardware-only providers, RSA offers passwordless capability across cloud, on-premises, hybrid, and legacy systems-ensuring every user and use case is covered.

RSA also ensures that passwordless access remains available even during internet outages with offline and secure fallback capabilities. RSA complements the widest breadth of supported passwordless protocols and form factors with the greatest security depth against threats like malware, brute force, phishing, and AiTM attacks with RSA Mobile Lock, RSA Risk AI, and now, RSA Help Desk Live Verify.

RSA Continues Passwordless Innovations

In addition to RSA Help Desk Live Verify, RSA is introducing deep security innovations to strengthen its passwordless offerings:

New RSA Mobile Lock enhancements protect against app tampering, spyware, sideloading, jailbreaking, and AiTM attacks, helping secure passkeys and all authentication methods on both BYOD and managed devices.

Windows Desktop Logon enables new passwordless methods, like QR code scanning and mobile FIDO logon for Windows desktops.

Secure onboarding with ID Verification uses government ID, liveness detection, and Mobile Match to prevent deepfake-based fraud and ensure the person enrolling owns the phone being used.

These solutions are built into RSA ID Plus, the industry's most secure hybrid identity security platform.

Resources:

Start your free, 45-day trial of RSA ID Plus today

Download the 2025 RSA ID IQ Report

Download the RSA iShield Key 2 series data sheet for enterprise or government

Download the RSA Risk AI data sheet

Download the RSA Mobile Lock data sheet

Download the RSA My Page ID Verification and Secure enrollment solution brief

About RSA

RSA provides mission-critical cybersecurity solutions that protect the world's most security-sensitive organisations. The RSA Unified Identity Platform provides true passwordless identity security, risk-based access, automated identity intelligence, and comprehensive identity governance across cloud, hybrid, and on-premises environments. More than 9,000 high-security organisations trust RSA to manage more than 60 million identities, detect threats, secure access, and enable compliance. For additional information, visit our website to contact sales, find a partner, or learn more about RSA.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250506822533/en/

Contacts:

teamrsa@axicom.com
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Riyadh Air, the new national carrier of Saudi Arabia, and Loyalty Juggernaut, Inc. (LJI), an innovation leader in loyalty technology, announced today a strategic partnership to power Riyadh Air's next-generation digital loyalty program, during the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, UAE.

As Riyadh Air prepares to redefine travel experiences for a new era, the airline is building a loyalty program that is as modern, dynamic, and digitally native as the brand itself. Powered by Loyalty Juggernaut's cloud-native GRAVTY platform, Riyadh Air's loyalty program will deliver a fully personalized, seamless, and rewarding experience for travelers worldwide.

"At Riyadh Air, we are committed to setting a new standard in customer experience," said Vincent Coste, Chief Commercial Officer of Riyadh Air. "Loyalty Juggernaut's cutting-edge GRAVTY platform allows us to create a digital-first loyalty program that matches the ambition, innovation, and scale of Riyadh Air. Together, we are shaping the future of travel loyalty."

He added, "the program will feature real-time engagement, AI-driven personalization, expanded partnerships, dynamic earn and redemption opportunities, and a seamless mobile-first experience-redefining traditional loyalty for a new generation of travelers."

Designed for scale and innovation, the GRAVTY platform's modular, API-first architecture ensures rapid deployment, future-proof scalability, and effortless integration with Riyadh Air's broader digital ecosystem.

"We are honored to partner with Riyadh Air in this landmark initiative," said Shyam Shah, CEO of Loyalty Juggernaut. "Our mission is to elevate loyalty into a strategic growth engine. GRAVTY's nextgen capabilities will enable Riyadh Air to deliver extraordinary value to its guests and partners, setting a bold new benchmark in airline loyalty."

The new loyalty program is expected to launch ahead of Riyadh Air's inaugural flights and will be a core pillar of the airline's broader customer engagement and growth strategy.

This partnership represents a shared vision: to build a loyalty experience that goes beyond points and miles-to create lasting emotional engagement with travelers at every touchpoint.

About Riyadh Air

Riyadh Air is Saudi Arabia's new world-class airline, launched to connect the Kingdom to more than 100 destinations worldwide. Headquartered in Riyadh and backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), Riyadh Air is committed to delivering an exceptional, technology-driven travel experience that reflects the future of aviation.

About Loyalty Juggernaut

Loyalty Juggernaut (LJI) is a leading B2B SaaS provider of next-generation loyalty and customer engagement solutions. LJI's flagship GRAVTY platform powers some of the world's most innovative loyalty ecosystems, enabling enterprises to elevate loyalty into a measurable, strategic growth engine. Headquartered in Palo Alto, California, LJI serves leading brands across industries, including airlines, retail, hospitality, and financial services.

Media Contacts

Riyadh Air: media@riyadhair.com

Loyalty Juggernaut: media@lji.io

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2680923/Loyalty_Juggernaut_Inc.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2251954/5304944/Loyalty_Juggernaut_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/riyadh-air-partners-with-loyalty-juggernaut-to-launch-a-next-generation-digital-loyalty-program-302447838.html
Bisichi Plc - Annual Report and Notice of AGM

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, May 07

ANNUAL REPORT AND NOTICE OF AGM

6 May 2025

Bisichi PLC

Annual Report - year ended 31 December 2024 and Notice of Annual General Meeting - 18 June 2025.

This is to confirm that Bisichi PLC has posted its Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024 and Notice of Annual General Meeting (to be held on 18 June 2025).

The document was published on the company's website and a copy was posted to all shareholders who had requested a printed copy. A letter was sent to those shareholders who had consented to web publications to advise them that the document was now available on the company's website.

An RNS announcement of the text of the Annual Report excluding the Notice of AGM was made on 29 April 2025.

Copies of the Annual Report may be obtained from the Company Secretary at the company's registered office, at 12 Little Portland Street, 2nd Floor, London, England, W1W 8BJ and is available for download from www.bisichi.co.uk

Copies of the above documents have been submitted to the National Storage Mechanism and will shortly be available for inspection at https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism .

Garrett Casey

Company Secretary

020 7415 5030

6 May 2025
Trogenix Further Strengthens its Scientific Advisory Board with the Appointment of World-Leading Experts, Prof Nada Jabado and Prof Burkhard Becher

Edinburgh, UK, 7 May 2025 - Trogenix Ltd ("Trogenix"), a pioneering biotech company dedicated to developing innovative cancer therapies, today announces the appointment of Prof Nada Jabado and Prof Burkhard Becher to its Scientific Advisory Board (SAB), effective immediately. Together, these new SAB members will strengthen the Company's scientific capabilities in developing targeted cancer treatments, with Prof Jabado bringing world-class expertise in paediatric neuro-oncology and Prof Becher contributing cutting-edge insights in immunotherapy. Both individuals join Trogenix's existing SAB members comprising world-leading experts spanning gene regulation, gene delivery, immunotherapy, neurosurgery, oncology and regenerative medicine.

Prof Nada Jabado is a Professor of Paediatrics at McGill University and a paediatric haematologist-oncologist at the Montreal Children's Hospital, whose groundbreaking work has created a paradigm shift in cancer following the identification of histone mutations as the critical drivers of paediatric gliomas. Nada began her career as an independent investigator at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, pioneering a research programme in paediatric brain tumours, which is now unparalleled. She is an Officer of the Order of Canada, a CIHR Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Paediatric Oncology, a Fellow to the Royal Society of Canada, a member of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences and has served as a member of the CIHR Governing Council. She holds a PhD in Immunology from the Marie Curie Institute and completed a postdoctoral fellowship in Biochemistry at McGill University.

Prof Burkhard Becher is Professor and Chair of the Institute of Experimental Immunology at the University of Zurich. Burkhard has authored over 270 publications exploring the cytokine-mediated communication networks that govern immune cell function in inflammation, which underpins efforts to utilise cytokine therapy in neuroinflammatory disorders and cancer immunotherapy. His work has led to transformative insights into the interplay between myeloid cells, lymphocytes and cytokines such as GM-CSF, IL-12 and IL-23. He has been recognised with numerous scientific honours, including being named a Highly Cited Researcher (Clarivate Analytics) annually since 2018, and is a recipient of the prestigious ERC Advanced Grant in 2019. He holds a PhD from the University of Cologne and conducted his graduate research in neuroimmunology at McGill University, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at Dartmouth Medical School.

Steve Pollard, Chief Scientific Officer at Trogenix, said:"We are honoured to welcome Nada Jabado and Burkhard Becher to our Scientific Advisory Board. Both are globally recognised leaders whose pioneering work in paediatric oncology and neuroimmunology, respectively, aligns perfectly with Trogenix's mission to transform treatment paradigms for aggressive cancers. Their insights will further elevate our already world-class SAB and each will provide invaluable guidance across our programmes and help guide future applications for our Odysseus platform."

-ends-

About Trogenix

Trogenix unites cutting-edge technologies in genomics, oncology, immunotherapy, and gene therapy to create a revolutionary therapeutic approach through its Odysseus platform. Using proven AAV vectors, our proprietary Synthetic Super-Enhancers (SSEs) are delivered directly to tumour cells without detection. Our SSEs enable unprecedented precision in gene control, effectively revealing cancer to the body's immune system and killing tumour cells. For any cells escaping Trogenix's technology, our 'Trojan horse' can counter recurrence, offering potentially curative 'one-and-done' treatments for aggressive tumours. With our lead asset showing curative potential in preclinical glioblastoma studies, we're poised to transform treatment paradigms across multiple cancer types and explore applications beyond oncology, such as regenerative medicine.

For more information, visit www.trogenix.com.

For more information, please contact:

Trogenix Ltd.info@trogenixbio.com

Media and Investor Enquiries:trogenix@icrhealthcare.com
Highlights:

RC Drilling Continues on 100% Controlled South Block Expansion Zone Expanding Known Mineralization to the North Drillhole JES-25-114 Returns 41.2 meters of 1.0 g/t Au and 10 g/t Ag Including 6.1 meters of 5.4 g/t Au and 39 g/t Ag Anomalous mineralization recorded over 129.6 meters averaging 0.3 g/t Au and 4 g/t Ag Coincides with Geophysical Anomaly (Resistivity) that extends 250 meters vertically Results Pending for Seven RC Holes Including follow-up on 3.1m of 19.4 g/t Au, within 106.6m of 0.6 g/t Au (JES-24-101)



CALGARY, AB / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 / Tocvan Ventures Corp. (the "Company") (CSE:TOC)(OTCQB:TCVNF)(WKN:TV3/A2PE64), is pleased to announce initial reverse circulation (RC) drill results from the latest drill program at the Gran Pilar Gold-Silver Project in mine-friendly Sonora, Mexico. Drilling is now focused on the 100% controlled expansion area where recent scout drilling returned significant mineralization (see February 25, 2025 News Release). Today's results include a follow-up on scout drillhole JES-24-102, which previously returned 16.8 m of 0.4 g/t Au and 6 g/t Ag. Results are highlighted by 6.1 meters of 5.4 g/t Au and 39 g/t Ag within 41.2 meters of 1.0 g/t Au and 10 g/t Ag from a downhole depth of 33.6 meters, or approximately 20 meters vertically from surface (JES-25-114). This hole represents the furthest northeast high-grade occurrence intersected to date, and follow-up drilling is underway to determine if this mineralization connects to the 4-T corridor, which is well-defined 380 meters to the southeast. The discovery coincides with a resistivity anomaly that extends 250 meters vertically as defined by a Controlled Source Audio-Frequency Magnetotellurics (CSAMT) survey, seen in Figure 2. JES-25-114 also lies 170 meters east of JES-24-101 (3.1 meters of 19.4 g/t Au within 106.6 meters of 0.6 g/t Au), and the close association of high-grade gold with an intrusive unit in both holes suggests they may be part of the same mineralized trend. Follow-up drilling on JES-24-101 has been completed, and mapping of the surrounding area has identified underground workings further north. RC drilling in this area has intersected multiple vein zones that appear similar to the mineralized intervals discovered in JES-24-101, with results for these holes currently pending.

Results are pending for seven RC drill holes, including follow-up drilling on JES-24-101, which intersected 3.1 meters of 19.4 g/t Au within 106.6 meters of 0.6 g/t Au.

"We are thrilled with these initial results from our latest drilling program at Gran Pilar, which continue to demonstrate the significant near-surface, high-grade potential of the project," commented Brodie Sutherland, CEO of Tocvan Ventures Corp. "The discovery of another high-grade corridor in the expansion area, coupled with its association with a geophysical anomaly that extends 250 meters vertically, underscores the scale and continuity of mineralization at Gran Pilar. With results pending for seven more holes, including follow-up on the exceptional grades intersected in JES-24-101, we are eager to further define this emerging zone and unlock its full potential. These results, combined with the robust economics of our planned pilot facility, position Gran Pilar as a standout gold-silver project in Sonora, especially in the context of record-high gold prices."

Figure 1. Planview target map of the South Block area where drilling is currently active. Undrilled target areas extend a kilometer north and 1.5 kilometers to the east. Recent drill results are highlighted. Red circles are soil samples with anomalous gold. Red diamonds are rock samples with anomalous gold.

Table 1. Summary of Drill Results in today's release. Intervals reported are drilled lengths, currently there is insufficient information to determine true widths.

Discussion of Results

JES-25-113: This drillhole intersected two mineralized zones, with the first interval returning 3.05 meters of 0.22 g/t Au and 12.5 g/t Ag from 56.43 meters, and a second interval of 1.53 meters of 0.13 g/t Au and 0.6 g/t Ag from 120.48 meters. These results indicate the presence of low-grade mineralization at depth, potentially extending the mineralized footprint in this area. Pathfinder geochemistry also suggests proximity to mineralization with zones (0.0 to 19.8m and 47.3 to 137.3m) of elevated arsenic up to 3,500 ppm.

JES-25-114: This drillhole returned significant mineralization, with a broad interval of 129.63 meters grading 0.34 g/t Au and 4.0 g/t Ag starting at 4.58 meters downhole. Within this, a higher-grade zone of 41.18 meters at 1.02 g/t Au and 9.6 g/t Ag was intersected, including 6.10 meters of 5.43 g/t Au and 39.4 g/t Ag, and a peak interval of 1.53 meters at 15.85 g/t Au and 140.5 g/t Ag. Additional mineralized zones include 7.63 meters of 0.84 g/t Au and 14.2 g/t Ag, and 6.10 meters of 0.17 g/t Au and 2.3 g/t Ag. The high-grade section correlates with a sharp drop in resistivity, suggesting fault and contact-related mineralization, as seen in the CSAMT inversion model (Figure 2).

JES-25-115: This drillhole intersected a narrow interval of 1.53 meters grading 0.13 g/t Au and 0.9 g/t Ag from 15.25 meters, indicating minor mineralization closer to the surface. Pathfinder geochemistry also suggests proximity to mineralization with arsenic elevated from surface down to 125.1 meters depth.

Figure 2. Cross-section looking northwest showing drillhole JES-25-114 plotted with a CSAMT inversion model of Resistivity. The high-grade section of the drill hole correlates with a sharp drop in resistivity which is thought to be fault- and contact- related. The depth extension of the target area remains untested, the target also remains open along strike several hundred meters to the northwest and southeast.

Figure 3. 3D Long Section of the Main Zone and the new Expansion Target to the north (left side of image). Results are pending for seven RC drillholes.

Table 2 Summary of drill collar locations and orientations. Coordinates are in UTM NAD 27, Zone 12N

Figure 4. Gran Pilar Project Overview, > 22km2 of prospective ground with two primary targets: South Block, the direct extension and expansion of the historic Main Zone defined by an expanding vein field of untested drill targets; North Block a 3.2-km by 1.5-km pyrite and clay alteration zone that coincides with high-grade gold-silver, the area remains largely untested.

Gran Pilar Drill Highlights:

2024 RC Drilling Highlights include ( all lengths are drilled thicknesses ): 42.7m @ 1.0 g/t Au, including 3.1m @ 10.9 g/t Au 56.4m @ 1.0 g/t Au, including 3.1m @ 14.7 g/t Au 16.8m @ 0.8 g/t Au and 19 g/t Ag

2022 Phase III Diamond Drilling Highlights include ( all lengths are drilled thicknesses ): 116.9m @ 1.2 g/t Au, including 10.2m @ 12 g/t Au and 23 g/t Ag 108.9m @ 0.8 g/t Au, including 9.4m @ 7.6 g/t Au and 5 g/t Ag 63.4m @ 0.6 g/t Au and 11 g/t Ag, including 29.9m @ 0.9 g/t Au and 18 g/t Ag

2021 Phase II RC Drilling Highlights include ( all lengths are drilled thicknesses ): 39.7m @ 1.0 g/t Au, including 1.5m @ 14.6 g/t Au 47.7m @ 0.7 g/t Au including 3m @ 5.6 g/t Au and 22 g/t Ag 29m @ 0.7 g/t Au 35.1m @ 0.7 g/t Au

2020 Phase I RC Drilling Highlights include ( all lengths are drilled thicknesses ): 94.6m @ 1.6 g/t Au, including 9.2m @ 10.8 g/t Au and 38 g/t Ag; 41.2m @ 1.1 g/t Au, including 3.1m @ 6.0 g/t Au and 12 g/t Ag ; 24.4m @ 2.5 g/t Au and 73 g/t Ag, including 1.5m @ 33.4 g/t Au and 1,090 g/t Ag

15,000m of Historic Core & RC drilling. Highlights include: 61.0m @ 0.8 g/t Au 21.0m @ 38.3 g/t Au and 38 g/t Ag 13.0m @ 9.6 g/t Au 9.0m @ 10.2 g/t Au and 46 g/t Ag



Pilar Bulk Sample Summary:

62% Recovery of Gold Achieved Over 46-day Leaching Period

Head Grade Calculated at 1.9 g/t Au and 7 g/t Ag; Extracted Grade Calculated at 1.2 g/t Au and 3 g/t Ag

Bulk Sample Only Included Coarse Fraction of Material (+3/4" to +1/8")

Fine Fraction (-1/8") Indicates Rapid Recovery with Agitated Leach Agitated Bottle Roll Test Returned Rapid and High Recovery Results: 80% Recovery of Gold and 94% Recovery of Silver after Rapid 24-hour Retention Time



Additional Metallurgical Studies:

Gravity Recovery with Agitated Leach Results of Five Composite Samples Returned 95 to 99% Recovery of Gold 73 to 97% Recovery of Silver Includes the Recovery of 99% Au and 73% Ag from Drill Core Composite at 120-meter depth.



Based on management's strong belief in the project's potential, the Company is outlining a permitting and operations strategy for a pilot facility at Pilar. The facility would underpin a robust test mine scenario with aims to process up to 50,000 tonnes of material. Timelines and budget are being prepared with the aim of moving forward with the development early in 2025. With gold prices hitting all-time highs, the Company believes the onsite test mine will provide key economic parameters and showcase the mineral potential of the area. In 2023, the Company completed an offsite bulk sample that produced important data showcasing the potential to recover both gold and silver through a variety of methods including heap leach, gravity and agitated leach (see August 22, 2023, news release for more details).

Market-Making Services

The Company is pleased to announce that it has retained Integral Wealth Securities Limited ("Integral") to provide Market-Making services in accordance with the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") policies. Integral will trade securities of the Company on the CSE for the purposes of maintaining an orderly market of the Company's securities.

The agreement between the Company and Integral (the "Agreement") executed on May 5, 2025 is for an initial term of three months. The Agreement outlines that Integral will receive compensation of CAD $6,000 per month, with the first monthly payment paid on the signing of the Agreement by the Company, and thereafter, the fee will be payable on the first day of each month. After the third month, the Company may terminate the Agreement on 30 days written notice. There are no performance factors in the agreement and Integral will not receive shares or options as compensation.

The Company and Integral are unrelated and unaffiliated entities. Integral is a member of the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization ("CIRO") and can access all Canadian Stock Exchange and Alternative Trading Systems. The capital and securities required for any trade undertaken by Integral as principal will be provided by Integral.

Integral Wealth Securities Limited is an independent CIRO-licensed investment dealer engaged in market making, investment banking and wealth management. Headquartered in Toronto, the firm operates from nine offices across Canada. The firm's FINRA-licensed US broker dealer affiliate, Integral Wealth Securities LLC, is based in Malvern, PA and provides investment banking as well as private placement services.

Integral and its clients may acquire an interest in the securities of the Company in the future. Integral is an arm's length party to the Company. Integral will be responsible for the costs it incurs in buying and selling the Company's common shares, and no third party will be providing funds or securities for the market making activities.

Marketing Engagement

Tocvan is also pleased to announce that the Company has signed a service agreement, dated May 6th, 2025, with TMM Capital Advisory, to develop and execute on investor relations, marketing and communications strategies, including managing shareholder communications, organizing investor presentations and meetings, handling media relations, preparing press releases, and website and social media management. TMM Capital Advisory shall receive CAD $5,000 per month over the duration of the agreement (minimum 12 months).

About TMM Capital Advisory (https://www.tmmcapitaladvisoryinc.com/)

At TMM, we work directly with business leaders and innovators and specialize in providing strategic guidance to help our clients navigate the complexities of the capital market and help drive organizational value. We pride ourselves on our commitment to providing tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of each of our clients. TMM can be contacted direct via the email tmuir@tmmcapitaladvisoryinc.com or by phone at +1 (888) 772-2452

About Tocvan Ventures Corp.

Tocvan's advancing gold-silver projects are located in the mine-friendly jurisdiction of Sonora, Mexico. Through ongoing exploration programs, the Company is unveiling the high-potential at its Gran Pilar Gold-Silver Project where it holds 100% interests in over 21 square kilometers of prospective area and a majority ownership (51%) in a one square kilometer area shared with Colibri Resources. The Company also holds 100% interest in the Picacho Gold-Silver project in the Caborca Trend of northern Sonora, a trend host to some of the major gold deposits of the region. Management feels both projects represent tremendous opportunity to create shareholder value.

Tocvan has approximately 59 million shares outstanding.

Quality Assurance / Quality Control

Rock and Drill samples were shipped for sample preparation to ALS Limited in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico and for analysis at the ALS laboratory in North Vancouver. The ALS Hermosillo and North Vancouver facilities are ISO 9001 and ISO/IEC 17025 certified. Gold was analyzed using 50-gram nominal weight fire assay with atomic absorption spectroscopy finish. Over limits for gold (>10 g/t), were analyzed using fire assay with a gravimetric finish. Silver and other elements were analyzed using a four-acid digestion with an ICP finish. Over limit analyses for silver (>100 g/t) were re-assayed using an ore-grade four-acid digestion with ICP-AES finish. Control samples comprising certified reference samples and blank samples were systematically inserted into the sample stream and analyzed as part of the Company's robust quality assurance / quality control protocol.

Soil Samples were shipped for sample preparation to ALS Limited in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico and for analysis at the ALS laboratory in North Vancouver. The ALS Hermosillo and North Vancouver facilities are ISO 9001 and ISO/IEC 17025 certified. Gold and multi-element analysis of soils was completed by aqua regia digestion and ICP-MS finish using a 50-gram nominal weight. Over limit gold values greater than 1 g/t were re-assayed with a more robust aqua regia digestion ad ICP-MS finish. Over limit analyses for silver (>100 g/t) were re-assayed using an ore-grade four-acid digestion with ICP-AES finish. Control samples comprising blank samples and certified reference materials were systematically inserted into the sample stream and analyzed as part of the Company's robust quality assurance / quality control protocol.

Brodie A. Sutherland, CEO for Tocvan Ventures Corp. and a qualified person ("QP") as defined by Canadian National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Statements

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.

This news release contains "forward-looking information" which may include, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the activities, events or developments that the Company expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future. Forward-looking information in this news release includes statements regarding the use of proceeds from the Offering. Such forward-looking information is often, but not always, identified by the use of words and phrases such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved.

These forward-looking statements, and any assumptions upon which they are based, are made in good faith and reflect our current judgment regarding the direction of our business. Management believes that these assumptions are reasonable. Forward-looking information involves 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 the forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others, risks related to the speculative nature of the Company's business, the Company's formative stage of development and the Company's financial position. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this news release and the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, except as may be required by applicable securities laws.

There can be no assurance that forward-looking information 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 information.

For more information, please contact:

TOCVAN VENTURES CORP.

Brodie A. Sutherland, CEO

1150, 707 - 7 Ave SW

Calgary, Alberta T2P 3H6

Telephone: 1-888-772-2452

Email: ir@tocvan.ca

STAY CONNECTED:

LinkedIn: TOC LinkedIn

X: TOC X

Facebook: TOC Facebook

YouTube: TOC YouTube

Web:tocvan.com

Latest Webinar: May 2, 2025 Company Update

SOURCE: Tocvan Ventures Corp

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/tocvan-discovers-another-near-surface-high-grade-corridor-at-gran-pilar-gold-silv-1024602
LUND, Sweden, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BPC Instruments (publ) hereby publishes the interim report for the period January 1 - March 31, 2025. The interim report is available as an attachment to this release and on the company's website https://investor.bpcinstruments.com/financial-reports.

CEO Dr. Jing Liu comments:

"Demand for our technologies remains stable across key markets, although the first quarter came in below expectations. The outcome is mainly attributable to delayed orders from China, where the market continues to be affected by prolonged procurement processes and a challenging macroeconomic environment. During the period, we made strategic investments in innovation, organisational development and infrastructure-efforts that strengthen our operational capacity and support continued growth. While these investments have temporarily increased our cost base, we continue to see strong commercial activity and no indication of a shift in demand."

Q1 | 2025-01-01 - 2025-03-31

Net sales for the period amounted to 13,045 (15,143) KSEK.

EBIT for the period amounted to 955 (4,288) KSEK.

Net profit amounted to 303 (3,617) KSEK.

Earnings per share for the period amounted to 0.03 (0.35) SEK.

At the end of the period equity/asset ratio was 92% (88%).

Total cash and equivalents, including short-term investments, amounted to 59,999 (24,825) KSEK.

Significant events Q1 2025

On January 8, BPC announces its upcoming relocation to new premises in Hasslanda, Lund. Developed in collaboration with Wihlborgs Fastigheter, this facility will be constructed over the next 1.5 years, specifically designed to align with BPC's goals for long-term business expansion. The relocation is anticipated to take place in the summer of 2026.

On January 24, BPC announces that the Board of Director's has resolved, subject to the subsequent approval by the extraordinary general meeting, to carry out a directed share issue of approximately SEK 24.5 million, to the institutional investor Eiffel Investment Group. On February 12, BPC held an extra ordinary meeting that resolved the directed share issue to Eiffel Investment Group.

On February 20, BPC announces an order of approximately SEK 0.5 million from DairyExperts, a US-based organisation specialising in livestock health and nutrition. The order includes a Gas Endeavour III system along with accessories designed to enhance feed analysis, optimise nutrition research, and drive innovation in the animal nutrition sector. The order is of strategic value and marks an important step in BPC's expansion into the U.S. animal nutrition market.

Highlights after the end of the period

On April 10, BPC announces the appointment of Hampus Darrell as new Chief Financial Officer. Hampus Darrell will step into the role of CFO in May 2025, succeeding Henrik Ljung.

This information is such information that BPC Instruments AB (publ) is obliged to publish in accordance with the EU Market Abuse Regulation (MAR). The information was submitted, through the agency of the contact person below, for publication on May 7, 2025.

For more information, please contact:

Dr. Jing Liu, CEO

BPC Instruments AB

Tel: +46 (0) 46 16 39 51

E-mail: ir@bpcinstruments.com

About BPC Instruments AB

BPC Instruments is a global Swedish-based pioneering technology company developing and offering analytical instruments enabling more efficient, reliable, and higher quality research and analysis for industries in renewable bioenergy and environmental biotechnology. The result is not only higher accuracy and precision, but also a significant reduction in time consumption and labor requirement for performing analysis. BPC Instruments' innovative products offer high-quality hardware and software based on deep knowledge and experience of target applications. The solutions are the first of their kind, making the company a pioneer in its field. Today, BPC Instruments exports to nearly 80 countries around the world. BPC is listed on the Spotlight Stock Market in Sweden. For more information, please visit BPC's webpage: www.bpcinstruments.com

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/bpc-instruments-ab/r/bpc-instruments-reports-results-for-q1-2025,c4146322

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/21129/4146322/3432229.pdf BPC_Q1_2025 https://mb.cision.com/Public/21129/4146322/8e458a584e2e176b.pdf Press release - BPC Q1

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bpc-instruments-reports-results-for-q1-2025-302448297.html
PARIS and SEOUL, South Korea, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SKAI Intelligence, a Seoul-based global AI-powered content and marketing solutions provider, announced today that it has successfully acquired SESAME Digital, a France-based digital commerce agency specializing in conversion-driven strategies, transactional content, and TikTok Shop services.

This strategic acquisition strengthens SKAI Intelligence's footprint in Europe, enabling closer support for its European clients, including Cartier, Dior, and LVMH, while expanding localized AI content services across Europe and the UK.

SESAME Digital helps brands turn digital engagement into measurable commerce by delivering integrated e-commerce experiences across digital platforms. Known for blending creativity with performance, SESAME has supported brands like Messika, Breitling Group, Celio Group, Piaget, and Repetto in building content and digital experiences that drives results. SESAME is also an official TikTok Shop Partner ('TSP') in France, the UK, and Spain, supporting brands with conversion-driven, content-based strategies. With deep expertise in social commerce, SESAME is helping define the next wave of "shoppertainment" - where native content, live shopping, and community engagement drive seamless consumer journeys.

The two companies already share a strong track record of collaboration. Since 2024, SESAME has been leveraging SKAI Intelligence's proprietary 3D+AI content solution to address the rising demand for hyper-realistic, high-performing digital assets in the European market. The acquisition builds on this synergy, enhancing their shared capabilities to deliver AI-powered commerce experiences tailored to regional needs.

"With SESAME joining the SKAI Intelligence family, we are accelerating our ability to localize, scale, and diversify services across Europe's most competitive commerce markets," said Morgan Mao, Co-founder and Global CEO of SKAI Intelligence. "Their unrivaled expertise in social commerce and TikTok Shop execution perfectly complements our proprietary AI solutions. Together, we're reimagining what's possible in next-generation retail."

Victoria Glanz, Founder and CEO of SESAME Digital, added "SKAI Intelligence shares our belief that transactional content is the key to online conversion. Their unique technology, activatable across digital platforms, helps bring that vision to scale. Together, we're pushing the boundaries of content, commerce, and tech."

The acquisition marks a critical step in SKAI Intelligence's global growth. Headquartered in Seoul, Korea, the company now operates offices in Shanghai, Hangzhou, Singapore, and - with SESAME - Paris, London, and Madrid, reinforcing its ability to deliver localized AI-driven solutions worldwide.

For more information, visit https://www.skaiintelligence.com and https://www.sesame-digital.com/en.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2669973/SKAI_Intelligence_Acquires_France_Based_Social_Commerce_Leader_SESAME_Digital_To.jpg

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/skai-intelligence-acquires-france-based-digital-commerce-key-player-sesame-digital-to-expand-european-presence-302448065.html
Ashley Tisdale struggled to "take care of herself" when she became a mom.

Ashley Tisdale struggled to 'take care of herself' when she became a mom

The 39-year-old actress has daughters Jupiter, four, and eight-month-old Emerson with her husband Christopher French, and was "expected to do so much" for her little ones in the very early days that she forgot about herself.

Speaking in a video posted to Instagram, she explained: "As a mom and someone who specifically has dealt with post-partum depression in my past, I know how hard it can be. We are expected to do so much, and we have gone through so much just even having the baby. There are those nights in the newborn stage that just feel endless. You're trying to keep this baby alive and you're trying to take care of yourself but you don't take care of yourself. It is really hard."

The 'High School Musical' star has teamed up with wearable breast pump company Willow, who are keen to offer mental health support to new mothers through The Canopie App.

She said: "I'm excited to be partnering with Willow, who are donating nine hours of mental health support through Canopie which is a platform that has all the tools to help moms, especially your emotional wellbeing."

The former 'Suite Life of Zack and Cody' actress just "wishes" she had something like that to support her the first time she became a mother because she struggled with "being present" amid the major lifestyle adjustments she had to make.

She added: "I wish I knew about it my first time going through this, I just wanted to be so present but I had a really hard time being present so I'm excited to support you guys, hopefully this helps."

Despite her struggles, Ashley recently admitted that becoming a mother is the "best" thing that has ever happened to her.

She told People: "I definitely love it. Obviously it's my favorite thing, and it's changed my life in so many ways. I think it's been the best time, and I'm so grateful."
A global survey reveals Europe's growing confidence in the use of data and technology to transform healthcare and surgery.

LEEDS, England, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A global survey from Johnson & Johnson MedTech, a global leader in cardiovascular, orthopaedic, surgery and vision solutions, reveals that Europeans are favorable to sharing their health data in exchange for personalized treatment plans. The study surveyed adults and healthcare professionals (HCPs) across eleven countries, including France, Germany, Italy, and the UK, to assess perceptions of the medical technology industry.

The results indicate that people trust technology for key aspects of their healthcare and believe it will continue to deliver benefits.

Of those Europeans surveyed:

73% support data-sharing for personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual's unique needs - leading ahead of the US general population at 67%.

tailored to each individual's unique needs - leading ahead of the US general population at 67%. 76% would feel excited about the future of healthcare if technology produced data that made medical and surgical training easier.

if technology produced data that made medical and surgical training easier. 65% are excited about the use of AI in healthcare. This excitement is higher among HCPs, with 86% of European HCPs expressing strong support.

"This growing confidence is encouraging for Europe, as it aligns with the ambition to accelerate the digital transformation of healthcare," said Dr. Ivo Broeders*, Consultant Surgeon, Professor of Robotics Twente University and Head of the Meander Centre for Artificial Intelligence. "In my experience, a digital ecosystem enhances the surgical experience for both patients and providers. It can result in personalized surgical plans based on individual patient data, real-time insights, better coordination among surgical teams and improved quality of care."

The survey results further underscore the belief in technology's role in personalized care, with 89% of European HCPs confirming that data and technology will significantly support personalized treatment plans. Additionally, 92% believe technology enhances precision in surgical procedures, and 90% agree that it will improve overall workflow and decision-making within healthcare systems.

Strong support for utilizing technology in training the next generation of HCPs was evident, with 79% of the general public and 87% of HCPs advocating for it. This aligns with recent calls for increased investment in medical training to address Europe's healthcare workforce challenges.

"With our longstanding commitment to support patients and providers across Europe, we champion the transformative potential of data and technology in healthcare," said Dr. Julia Fishman, Head of Digital Solutions EMEA, Johnson & Johnson MedTech. "As patients and healthcare professionals express a clear appetite for data-driven care, we have a collective responsibility - across industry, policymakers and healthcare systems - to unlock the potential of technology safely and meaningfully."

Johnson & Johnson MedTech is actively integrating leading-edge technologies to improve patient outcomes and address key healthcare challenges. These innovations include AI-driven tools that analyze patient data ahead of surgery, advanced cardio mapping systems that provide real-time insights to support clinical decisions, and surgical solutions that personalize solutions like total knee arthroplasty to each patient's individual needs. To fully realize the potential of these technologies at scale, greater connectivity of data across clinical and operational systems will be essential.

Survey Methodology

Morning Consult conducted an online survey on behalf of Johnson & Johnson MedTech between August 8 and September 9, 2024 among 11,412 general population adults and 964 HCPs (including a mix of general surgeons, vision specialists, orthopaedic specialists, and cardiology specialists) in the following countries: Brazil, Chile, Colombia, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, the U.K. and the U.S. Results from the full survey have a margin of error of +/-3% for Gen Pop and between +/-8-10% for HCPs. European data are an aggregate of France, Germany, Italy and the UK.

About Johnson & Johnson

At Johnson & Johnson, we believe health is everything. Our strength in healthcare innovation empowers us to build a world where complex diseases are prevented, treated, and cured, where treatments are smarter and less invasive, and solutions are personal. Through our expertise in Innovative Medicine and MedTech, we are uniquely positioned to innovate across the full spectrum of healthcare solutions today to deliver the breakthroughs of tomorrow, and profoundly impact health for humanity. Learn more about our MedTech sector's global scale and deep expertise in cardiovascular, orthopaedics, surgery and vision solutions at https://thenext.jnjmedtech.com. Follow us at @JNJMedTech and on LinkedIn .

*Dr. Broeders is a paid consultant for Johnson & Johnson MedTech

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/personalized-treatment-plans-influence-european-publics-willingness-to-share-health-data-302447896.html
MUNICH, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- XING Mobility, a global leader in immersion-cooled battery systems, officially launched its latest energy storage innovation, the XBE1000 1MW BESS Cabinet, at EES Europe in Germany. With a total energy capacity of 1 megawatt-hour, this compact energy cabinet supports high-power discharge, rapid system response, and strong current output, making it ideal for a wide range of applications, from AI infrastructure and commercial facilities to grid-scale deployments.

4 Power Output  Active Safety - Breaking the Limits of Conventional ESS

XBE1000 Cabinet is built upon XING's proprietary IMMERSIO immersion cooling battery system, designed specifically for energy storage. The modular architecture supports flexible expansion from 200kWh to 1000kWh and enables both single-cabinet and multi-cabinet deployments. Integrated with high-energy-density cells and an active thermal management design, the system supports 2P discharge (twice the nominal power output), delivering up to four times the power of traditional air-cooled solutions-making it uniquely advantageous for high-load and space-constrained environments.

IMMERSIO XBE1000 XING Mobility's 1MWh immersion-cooled energy storage cabinet

By fully submerging battery cells in electrically insulating coolant, IMMERSIO significantly enhances thermal efficiency and maintains optimal operating temperatures. This results in twice the system lifespan compared to conventional systems. It also features XING's proprietary thermal runaway suppression technology, proven to cool temperatures by over 1000C within just 15 seconds during the early stage of a thermal event-greatly reducing fire and propagation risks while enabling safer and more flexible deployment of high-energy systems.

Proven in Harsh Climates, Validated High Power in Real-World Use

Also featured at the show is the Hummingbird mobile fast-charging station from Norwegian energy management company Nordic Booster, powered by XING's immersion-cooled battery system. The system delivers up to 300kW of output in a compact footprint, demonstrating the real-world potential of high-power discharge in mobile applications. Compared to conventional LFP batteries that typically support only 0.5C discharge, IMMERSIO offers higher power density and superior thermal control, making it an ideal solution for remote infrastructure and fast-charging needs.

XING Mobility has successfully completed multiple high-safety energy storage deployments, including a 2.4MWh immersion-cooled ESS installed at Taipower's Wind Farm in Taiwan. Leveraging its world-class thermal management technology, XING continues to drive innovation in the energy storage industry and expand its global reach-accelerating the commercialization and real-world adoption of immersion-cooled systems.

Meet XING at EES Europe 2025 - Booth C2.270

At EES Europe 2025, XING Mobility will showcase its full portfolio of immersion-cooled battery systems-from modular 200kWh units to megawatt-scale configurations. Visit Booth C2.270 to explore how XING and its global partners are powering a safer, more efficient, and more sustainable energy future.





IMMERSIO XBE200 Immersion Cooling Energy Storage System

About XING Mobility:

Founded in 2015, XING Mobility is a global leader in immersion cooling battery technology, with a production facility in Taiwan. Over a decade, XING has perfected its immersion cooling system, enabling superior thermal efficiency, unmatched fire safety, and reliable performance in extreme climates. XING's innovations are driving the global transition to electrification, proven across a wide range of applications, including supercar, passenger and commercial vehicles, agricultural and industrial machinery, energy storage systems, and the world's first immersion-cooled ESS for wind farms. XING Mobility continuously drives the global transition to electrification with strategic partner alliances. More at: https://www.xingmobility.com/

Media Contact

Abby Kuo / press@xingmobility.com

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1a7456dd-36a7-49d1-8630-1ea072d5ff6b

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d9cffd1d-1adb-404d-a39a-f79f216d7aca
LEM HOLDING SA / Key word(s): Annual Results/Conference

Invitation to Annual Results conference 2024/25



07.05.2025 / 09:30 CET/CEST





LEM Holding SA (SIX: LEHN) is pleased to invite you to a conference for investors, analysts, and media to present the results for the financial year 2024/25, followed by a Q&A session. The conference, which will be available simultaneously via conference call and audio webcast, will take place on:

Tuesday, 27 May 2025, 10.30 am CET

Widder Hotel, Widder Saal, 8001 Zurich (please use the entrance at Augustinergasse 16)

Program

10.15 - 10.30 Registration 10.30 - 11.15 Presentation in English Andreas Hurlimann, Chairman

Frank Rehfeld, Chief Executive Officer

Thomas Mellano, interim Chief Finance Officer 11.15 - 12.00 Questions & Answers 12.00 Standing lunch

Registration

We kindly ask you to confirm your attendance by sending an e-mail to Anne Prisco, LEM Holding SA at aeo@lem.com by Wednesday, 21 May 2025. Please indicate if you intend to stay for the standing lunch.

Conference Call

To participate in the conference call, please register via this link . You will then receive a confirmation e-mail with individual dial-in data. As a participant in the conference call, you can follow the presentation here (please mute the browser sound).

Audio Webcast

To access the live audio webcast, please use this link . Questions can be asked via the chat function. A recording of the webcast will be available after the call from LEM's website or using the same link .

Full year results documentation

LEM will publish its full year results 2024/25 on 27 May 2025, at 7.00 am CET. The ad hoc announcement, Annual Report and presentation slides will be available on LEM's website ( www.lem.com/en/investors ).

If you have any questions or require additional information, please contact Dynamics Group:

Thomas Balmer, +41 79 703 87 28, tba@dynamicsgroup.ch

Christian Wolf, +41 79 457 72 05, cwo@dynamicsgroup.ch

Yours sincerely,

Frank Rehfeld

Chief Executive Officer

Thomas Mellano

interim Chief Finance Officer

If you do not wish to receive further media releases from LEM, you can unsubscribe at any time by clicking on the following link: One-click-delete

If the email looks unformatted, please use this alternative link .

End of Media Release


SpreeAI celebrates a $1.5 billion valuation as it prepares for groundbreaking partnerships and game-changing innovation.

NEW YORK, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SpreeAI, a leader in fashion tech innovation, is transforming retail with its photorealistic try-on product so lifelike the naked eye can't tell it's virtual. Combined with sizing technology boasting 99% accuracy, SpreeAI delivers hyper-personalized shopping experiences that enhance both retail companies' operations and consumers' satisfaction. Designed for seamless use both in-store and online, SpreeAI is reshaping shopping by merging advanced AI with real-world applications.

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/spreeai/9334251-en-spreeai-redefining-retail-virtual-ai-powered-try-ons

For consumers, SpreeAI adds an unparalleled level of personalization, allowing shoppers to become the model and visualize clothing in a lifelike, photorealistic way. Packed with upcoming features like an AI stylist, a virtual wardrobe, and more, SpreeAI creates a dynamic and engaging shopping experience. For retailers, SpreeAI is engineered to reduce returns and boost sales conversions, offering a transformative solution for the fashion industry.

Visionary Leadership Drives $1.5B Valuation

Led by visionary Co-founder and CEO John Imah, SpreeAI's board is bolstered by legendary supermodel and fashion icon Naomi Campbell, alongside entrepreneurs Bob Davidson and Larry Ruvo. Having one of the world's most recognized fashion figures on the board underscores SpreeAI's fusion of high-fashion insight with cutting-edge tech. The company recently achieved a $1.5 billion valuation after an undisclosed funding round led by The Davidson Group, a prominent family office known for supporting groundbreaking ventures. This milestone valuation reflects the market's confidence in SpreeAI's mission and its rapid growth at the intersection of technology and style.

"It's inspiring to be part of SpreeAI's transformative journey under John's visionary leadership. I've always believed in pushing boundaries and embracing innovation, and seeing John's passion and determination firsthand makes me even more excited about the future we're creating together. SpreeAI represents the powerful fusion of fashion, technology, and inclusivity-and I'm thrilled to be on this groundbreaking path."

- Naomi Campbell, Fashion Icon and SpreeAI Board Member

Academic and Industry Alliances Fuel Innovation

Exclusive collaborations with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Carnegie Mellon University across research initiatives, talent development, and technical collaboration drive SpreeAI's deep commitment to innovation. Additionally, SpreeAI's partnership with the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) further solidifies its intersection between advanced technology and high-fashion expertise. These prestigious alliances enable the company to lead the industry with unmatched solutions. With 4 issued patents and 23 pending, SpreeAI safeguards its proprietary technology, ensuring its position as a frontrunner in the competitive retail tech market. This foundation of innovation is further supported by internal initiatives like Protea-a platform that helps retail partners integrate and test SpreeAI's solutions-empowering brands to enhance operational efficiency and customer experiences.

"The CFDA is proud to collaborate with SpreeAI, a fashion technology leader delivering innovative solutions to help designers and brands thrive in the fashion industry."

- Steven Kolb, CEO, Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA)

"SpreeAI's partnership with the EECS Alliance exemplifies the kind of forward-thinking collaboration we strive for-bringing together industry innovation and academic excellence. Their active involvement, including providing impactful internship opportunities, has opened up exciting pathways for our students while supporting research and real-world application in the AI space. We're proud to support SpreeAI as they continue to grow and lead in this evolving field."

- Priscilla Capistrano, Program Manager at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

"AI is poised to revolutionize many things including e-commerce. SpreeAI is pushing the forefront of this for a truly personalized garment-shopping experience, by leveraging collaborations with academia and assembling a team that understands both the deep technical challenges and their product impact."

- Professor Deva Ramanan, Robotics Institute at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU)

Fashion Collaborations & Met Gala Spotlight

2025 is set to be a transformative year for SpreeAI, with major retail and luxury brand partnerships and new product features on the horizon. As part of this momentum, SpreeAI is announcing new partnerships with luxury fashion label Sergio Hudson and London-based contemporary womenswear brand Kai Collective. The timing of these collaborations coincides with a cultural moment: the 2025 Met Gala's theme, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," which honors Black designers. Both Sergio Hudson and Kai Collective's founder Fisayo Longe are celebrated Black designers at the forefront of fashion innovation. John Imah will attend the Met Gala as the first-ever fashion tech in AI startup CEO invited, underscoring SpreeAI's prominent role in the fashion world and its commitment to celebrating the creative visionaries who inspire its technology.

You can now experience SpreeAI's technology firsthand by visiting Sergio Hudson's website at sergiohudson.com.

"We're thrilled to partner with SpreeAI and aim to create a personalized experience for Sergio Hudson and drive increased sales."

- Sergio Hudson, Founder & Creative Director

"At Kai Collective, we're always looking for ways to fuse innovation with storytelling. Collaborating with SpreeAI allows us to explore how technology can elevate the customer experience while staying true to our brand's identity and values."

-Fisayo Longe, Founder & CEO of Kai Collective

These designer partnerships exemplify how SpreeAI's technology unites with creative vision to redefine customer engagement. And SpreeAI isn't stopping here - the company has hinted that even more collaborations with major luxury fashion houses are on the way. By keeping details under wraps, SpreeAI is fueling a buzz of excitement and industry-wide anticipation for what's coming next.

"Our approach will always be customer-focused-that means both the retail partners and the consumers we serve," said John Imah, Co-founder and CEO of SpreeAI. "We don't just look at the shopping landscape; we reimagine it. Whether it's in-store or online, we step back and ask how AI can transform real-world challenges into seamless, exciting experiences. This mindset drives us forward as we continue shaping the future of retail and fashion with AI, blending innovation with personalization to empower and inspire. The possibilities are limitless, and we're just getting started."

For more information, please contact Brittanae Casper at brittanae@vmgroupe.com.

About SpreeAI

SpreeAI is transforming the shopping experience with its photorealistic try-on product and 99%-accurate sizing technology, designed to enhance both retail operations and consumer satisfaction. For shoppers, SpreeAI offers unmatched personalization, enabling them to become the model while introducing features like an AI stylist, a virtual wardrobe, and more. For retailers, SpreeAI reduces returns, increases sales conversions, and creates seamless shopping experiences. Its product integrates effortlessly into both in-store and online environments, promoting sustainability and setting new standards for retail.

About John Imah

John Imah is a visionary leader at the forefront of technology and fashion. As a Nigerian American and first-generation immigrant, John brings innovation and diversity to the tech industry. Under his leadership, SpreeAI has achieved a $1.5 billion valuation, cementing its role as a transformative force in AI-powered retail.

John's career includes leadership roles at Samsung, Twitch, Amazon, Meta, Take-Two Interactive, and Snap Inc., where he implemented strategies that drove impactful growth. A member of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), John seamlessly combines his expertise in tech and fashion to deliver groundbreaking solutions.

As a successful entrepreneur and creative, John's influence extends beyond business into design, music, and philanthropy, including initiatives like serving as a strategic advisor to the Davidson Academy-a pioneering school dedicated to providing profoundly gifted students with educational opportunities tailored to their unique abilities, strengths, and interests. His involvement with the Academy is deeply personal, rooted in his own experiences as a profoundly gifted child. By actively mentoring students, funding scholarships, and supporting charitable initiatives, John blends professional success with a genuine commitment to empowering gifted youth and uplifting underserved communities, ensuring his legacy is defined not only by innovation but by authentic and meaningful impact.

Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYBxhbgC1LI

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2680206/SpreeAI_Sergio_Hudson_App_Action.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2680208/SpreeAI_Large_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/multimedia-now-available-spreeai-is-redefining-retail-with-virtual-ai-powered-try-ons-curated-by-the-top-in-tech-and-fashion-302448351.html
SENS ANNOUNCEMENT

(the "Notice" or "Announcement")

ISSUER

ZCCM INVESTMENTS HOLDINGS PLC ("ZCCM-IH")

[Incorporated in the Republic of Zambia]

Company registration number: 119540000771

Share Code: ZCCM-IH

ISIN: ZM0000000037

Authorized by: Charles Mjumphi - Company Secretary

SPONSOR

Stockbrokers Zambia Limited

[Founder Member of the Lusaka Securities Exchange]

[Regulated and licensed by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Zambia]

Contact Person: Amon Chizola

Website: www.sbz.com.zm

APPROVAL

The captioned Notice or Announcement has been approved by:

the Lusaka Securities Exchange ("LuSE") the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") ZCCM Investment Holdings Plc ("ZCCM-IH")

RISK WARNING

The Notice or Announcement contained herein contains information that may be of a price sensitive nature.

Investors are advised to seek the advice of their investment advisor, stockbroker, or any professional duly licensed by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Zambia to provide securities advice.

ISSUED: 7 May 2025

ZCCM INVESTMENTS HOLDINGS PLC

[Incorporated in the Republic of Zambia]

Company registration number: 771

Share Code: ZCCM-IH

ISIN: ZM0000000037

["ZCCM-IH" or "the Company"]

PROVISIONAL ABRIDGED UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

INTRODUCTION

In compliance with the requirements of the Securities Act No. 41 of 2016, ZCCM Investments Holdings PLC ("ZCCM-IH PLC" or "the Company") announces the provisional unaudited financial statements results of the Company and its subsidiaries (Collectively referred to as the 'the Group') for the year ended 31 December 2024.

STRUCTURE OF THE ZCCM INVESTMENTS HOLDINGS PLC GROUP

The ZCCM-IH Group consists of the following Six (6) companies:

Name Shareholding Limestone Resources Limited 100.00% Ndola Lime Company Limited (In liquidation) 100.00% Misenge Environmental and Technical Services Limited 100.00% Kariba Minerals Limited 100.00% Mushe Milling Limited (In liquidation) 100.00% Kabundi Resources Limited 100.00%

The Company also has other interests in the under noted companies: Name Shareholding Rembrandt Properties 49.00% Mopani Copper Mine PLC 49.00% Maamba Energy Limited 35.00% Copperbelt Energy Corporation PLC 32.41% Lubambe Copper Mines PLC 30.00% Konkola Copper Mines PLC 20.60% Kansanshi Mining PLC 20.00% CNMC Luanshya Copper Mines PLC 20.00% Mingomba Mining Limited 20.00% Copper Tree Mineral Limited 15.58% NFCA Africa Mining PLC 15.00% Chibuluma Mines PLC 15.00% Chambishi Metals PLC 10.00% Nkana Alloy Smelting Company Limited 10.00%

PROVISIONAL ABRIDGED GROUP STATEMENT OF PROFIT OR LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME Unaudited Audited 31 Dec

2024 31 Dec

2023 ZMW'000 ZMW'000 Revenue

3,208,963

11,747,105 Gross loss (486,126) (3,559,228) Gain on subsidiary loan modification 35,916,739 - Operating profit/(loss) 33,135,266 (2,104,964) Net finance cost (326,834) (2,267,838) Share of profit of equity accounted investees 3,117,378 2,261,209 Profit/(loss) before tax 42,859,121 (2,111,593) Income tax expense (549,960) (1,206,049) Loss for the year from continuous operations 42,309,161 (3,317,642) Loss from discontinued operations (3,684) (758,181) Profit/(loss) for the year 42,305,477 (4,075,823) Earnings per share (ZMW) 263.09 (25.35) Basic and diluted earnings per share (ZMW) 263.09 (25.35)

PROVISIONAL ABRIDGED COMPANY STATEMENT OF PROFIT OR LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME Unaudited Audited 31 Dec

2024 31 Dec

2023 ZMW'000 ZMW'000 Investment income 2,418,221 2,128,699 Revenue from contracts with customers - 23,180 Operating (loss)/profit (4,237,971) 3,067,198 Net finance income 339,425 2,979,315 (Loss)/profit before tax (3,898,546) 6,046,513 Income tax expense (573,993) (1,205,034) (Loss)/profit for the year (4,472,539) 4,841,479 Earnings per share (ZMW) (27.81) 30.11 Basic and diluted earnings per share (ZMW) (27.81) 30.11

PROIVISIONAL ABRIDGED GROUP STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION Unaudited Audited 31 Dec 2024 31 Dec 2023 ZMW'000 ZMW'000 Assets Property, plant, and equipment 355,526 248,857 Exploration and evaluation asset 15,431 51,437 Intangible assets 19,987,739 14,393,945 Investment property 205,891 208,598 Investments in associates 29,334,305 10,090,940 Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss 2,741,000 3,019,500 Trade and other receivables 2,985,812 1,968,006 Environmental protection fund 369 7,060 Burden costs for mining 6,599 - Inventories 32,536 38,299 Assets classified as held for sale 92,199 23,626,388 Term deposits 5,345,151 4,450,451 Cash and cash equivalents 989,833 360,356 Total assets 62,092,391 58,463,837

Equity and liabilities

Capital and reserves 57,139,683 (5,690,634) Borrowings 3,346,867 - Deferred tax liability 285,275 751,833 Retirement benefits 17,373 17,381 Provisions for environmental rehabilitation 193,653 112,751 Trade and other payables 179,602 312,756 Provisions 49,670 44,243 Current income tax liabilities 866,000 238,553 Liabilities associated with assets classified as held for sale 14,268 62,676,954 Total equity and liabilities 62,092,391 58,463,837

PROVISIONAL ABRIDGED COMPANY STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION Unaudited Audited 31 Dec 2024 31 Dec 2023 Assets ZMW'000 ZMW'000 Property, plant, and equipment 143,625 110,624 Intangible assets 19,909,353 14,260,690 Investment property 205,891 208,598 Investment in subsidiaries 200,233 282,384 Investments in associates 34,452,165 11,240,080 Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss 2,741,000 3,019,500 Trade and other receivables 3,083,868 4,874,739 Term deposits 5,345,151 4,411,330 Cash and cash equivalents 685,884 61,137 Assets classified as held for sale 73,684 - Total assets 66,840,854 38,469,082

Equity and liabilities Capital and reserves 62,234,767 37,422,019 Borrowings 3,346,867 - Deferred tax liability 176,282 618,059 Retirement Benefit Obligations 17,373 17,381 Provisions for environmental rehabilitation 71,289 54,498 Trade and other payables 103,133 78,288 Provisions 25,551 41,461 Current income tax liabilities 865,592 237,376 Total equity and liabilities 66,840,854 38,469,082

PROVISIONAL ABRIDGED GROUP STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS Unaudited Audited 31 Dec 2024 31 Dec 2023 ZMW'000 ZMW'000 Net cash in/(out) flow from operating activities 1,930,778 (83,727) Net cash (out)/in flow from investing activities (720,934) 533,274 Net cash outflow from financing activities (120,016) (207,812) Increase in cash and cash equivalents 1,089,828 241,735 Effects of translation and exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents 16,523 (277,193) Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year (116,518) (81,060) 989,833 (116,518) Included in the statement of financial position 970,176 360,356 Included in assets held for sale 19,657 (476,874) 989,833 (116,518)

PROVISIONAL ABRIDGED COMPANY STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS Unaudited Audited 31 Dec 2024 31 Dec 2023 ZMW'000 ZMW'000 Net cash in/(out) flows from operating activities 1,767,054 (368,710) Net cash flows used in investing activities (1,038,814) 379,990 Net cash flows used in financing activities (120,016) - Decreased in cash and cash equivalents 608,224 11,280 Effect of movement in exchange rates on cash held 16,523 4,271 Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 61,137 45,586 Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period 685,884 61,137

PROVISIONAL ABRIDGED GROUP STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

Unaudited Audited 31 Dec 2024 31 Dec 2023 ZMW'000 ZMW'000 Balance at 1 Jan (5,690,634) 7,908,807 Profit/(loss) for the year 42,305,477 (4,075,823) Other comprehensive income 20,768,204 (8,800,010) Dividend paid (243,364) (723,608) Balance at 31 Dec 57,139,683 (5,690,634)

PROVISIONAL ABRIDGED COMPANY STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

Unaudited Audited 31 Dec

2024 31 Dec

2023 ZMW'000 ZMW'000 Balance at 1 Jan 37,422,019 24,679,852 Loss/(profit) for the year (4,472,539) 4,841,479 Other comprehensive income 29,528,651 8,624,296 Dividend paid (243,364) (723,608) Balance at 31 Dec 62,234,767 37,422,019

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS

GROUP PE R F O RMANCE

ZCCM-IH recorded a profit of ZMW 42.31 billion (US$ 1.62 billion) in 2024, reversing the prior year's loss of ZMW 4.08 billion (US$ 199.59 million). This was driven by the Mopani Strategic Equity Partner (SEP) Transaction, which repositioned Mopani as financially viable, and settled US$ 1.71 billion of the Glencore/Carlisa debt under the in Glencore/Carlisa debt through the Amendment, Restatement, and Consolidation (ARCA) Agreement. The transaction triggered a one-off gain of ZMW 35.92 billion and reclassified Mopani from a subsidiary to an associate.

On 21 March 2024, ZCCM-IH partnered with IRH (via Delta Mining Limited), resulting in the dilution of its interest in Mopani to 49%. This significantly impacted the Group's financials.

Operating profit rose to ZMW 40.07 billion (US$ 1.53 billion), up from a loss of ZMW 2.10 billion (US$ 103 million), with an additional ZMW 3.11 billion (US$ 119.20 million) contributed by associates.

Total assets increased to ZMW 62.09 billion (US$ 2.22 billion) in 2024, up from ZMW 58.46 billion (US$ 2.27 billion) in 2023, driven by fair value recognition of Mopani and Mingomba and higher intangible assets.

Equity improved to ZMW 57.14 billion (US$ 2.04 billion) in 2024, from a negative ZMW 5.69 billion (US$ 221.03 million) in 2023, mainly due to profit and ZMW 20.77 billion in other comprehensive income recorded in 2024.

COMPANY FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

At the company level, ZCCM-IH recorded a loss of ZMW 4.47 billion (US$ 171.02 million) for the year ended 31 December 2024 (2023: Profit of ZMW 4.84 billion (US$ 235.89 million). The loss was primarily driven by the recognition of a one-off ZMW 3.86 billion (US$ 150 million) investment expense representing the loan payable to Glencore, following the successful Mopani SEP transaction with IRH/ Delta.

Despite the loss, total assets at the company level increased significantly to ZMW 66.84 billion (US$ 2.39 billion) in 2024 (2023: ZMW 38.47 billion (US$1.49 billion)), due to the revaluation and recognition of fair value investments in Mopani, KCM and Mingomba as associate companies. Intangible assets also grew to ZMW 19.91 billion (US$ 712million) in 2024, compared to 2023 amount of ZMW 14.26 billion (US$553 million).

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year increased significantly to ZMW 685.88 million (US$ 35.41million) from ZMW 61.14 million (US$ 13.99 million) in 2023.

At company level, total equity increased to ZMW 62.23 billion (US$ 2.23 billion) in 2024 (2023: ZMW 37.42 billion (US$ 1.45 billion), supported by other comprehensive income of ZMW 29.53 billion.

KEY OPERATIONS AND STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENTS

Mopani Copper Mines Transaction:

In March 2024, ZCCM-IH diluted its interest in Mopani Copper Mines Plc to 49% by Mopani issuing new shares to Delta Mining Limited (a subsidiary of International Resource Holdings), valued at US$1.1 billion. The transaction repositioned Mopani as a viable operation and settled US$1.71 billion in Glencore/Carlisa debt under the ARCA Agreement with IRH/Delta.

The ongoing capital investment in underground development and operational improvements is expected to unlock Mopani's full potential, marking a new chapter for Zambia's mining sector.

Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) Restructuring:

Vedanta Resources regained control of KCM after releasing US$250 million, leading to board reconstitution and the end of the liquidation process. A further US$1.2 billion commitment will support expansion, development of the Konkola Deep Mining Project, and financial strengthening

Vedanta Resources regained control of KCM after releasing US$250 million, leading to board reconstitution and the end of the liquidation process. A further US$1.2 billion commitment will support expansion, development of the Konkola Deep Mining Project, and financial strengthening Investment in Renewable Energy:

ZCCM-IH increased its stake in Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC) from 31.07% to 32.41%, reinforcing its role in powering Zambia's industrial and mining sectors. It also invested US$10 million in the second tranche of CEC's US$200 million green bond, backing a 136MW solar project aligned with its energy diversification strategy.

ZCCM-IH increased its stake in Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC) from 31.07% to 32.41%, reinforcing its role in powering Zambia's industrial and mining sectors. It also invested US$10 million in the second tranche of CEC's US$200 million green bond, backing a 136MW solar project aligned with its energy diversification strategy. Expansion of Maamba Energy Portfolio:

Maamba Energy Limited remains a key player in Zambia's power sector, with its 300MW thermal plant operating at 99.95% efficiency. To expand capacity, ZCCM-IH committed US$50 million to Maamba's Phase II, a US$400 million project that will add 300MW and double output to 600MW, supporting Zambia's energy security and industrialisation goals.

Strategic Realignment:

ZCCM-IH continued focusing on mining, energy, and mineral beneficiation by divesting non-core assets.

Outlook 2025

In 2025, ZCCM-IH will focus on maximising returns from its investee companies, optimising its investment portfolio, developing green energy projects, strengthening capital efficiency, and deepening its ESG impact across Zambia.

By Order of the Board

Charles Mjumphi

Company Secretary

Issued in Lusaka, Zambia on 07 May 2025

Lusaka Securities Exchange Sponsoring Broker T | +260-211-232456



E | advisory@sbz.com.zm



W | www.sbz.com.zm



Stockbrokers Zambia Limited (SBZ) is a member of the Lusaka Securities

Exchange and is regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Zambia

First Issued on 07 May 2025

APPENDICES

US DOLLAR ABRIDGED GROUP STATEMENT OF PROFIT OR LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

31 Dec

2024 31 Dec

2023 US$'000 US$'000 Revenue 122,701 572,356 Gross loss (18,588) (173,416) Gain on subsidiary loan modification 1,373,345 - Operating profit/(loss) 1,532,090 (102,559) Net finance cost (12,497) (110,497) Share of profit of equity accounted investees 119,199 110,173 Profit/(loss) before tax 1,638,800 (102,883) Income tax expenses (21,029) (58,762) Loss from continuing operations 1,617,771 (161,645) Loss from discontinued operations (141) (36,941) Profit/(loss) for the year 1,617,630 (198,586) Earnings per share (US$) 10.06 (1.23) Basic and diluted earnings per share (US$) 10.06 (1.23)

US DOLLAR ABRIDGED COMPANY STATEMENT OF PROFIT OR LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 31 Dec

2024 31 Dec

2023 US$'000 US$'000 Investment income 92,465 103,717 Revenue from contracts with customers - 1,129 Operating (loss)/profit (162,047) 149,444 Net finance income 12,979 145,162 (Loss)/profit before tax (149,068) 294,606 Income tax expenses (21,948) (58,713) (Loss)/profit for the year (171,016) 235,893 Earnings per share (US$) (1.06) 1.47 Basic and diluted earnings per share (US$) (1.06) 1.47

US DOLLAR ABRIDGED GROUP STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION Unaudited Audited 31 Dec 2024 31 Dec 2023 US$'000 US$'000 Assets Property, plant, and equipment 12,719 9,666 Exploration and evaluation asset 552 1,998 Intangible assets 715,061 559,064 Investment property 7,366 8,102 Investments in associates 1,049,434 391,934 Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss 98,059 117,278 Trade and other receivables 106,817 76,438 Environmental protection fund 13 274 Burden costs for mining 236 0 Inventories 1,164 1,488 Assets classified as held for sale 3,298 917,654 Term deposits 191,223 172,857 Cash and cash equivalents 35,412 13,996 Total assets 2,221,354 2,270,749

Equity and liabilities Capital and reserves 2,044,171 (221,026) Borrowings 119,734 0 Deferred tax liability 10,206 29,201 Retirement benefits 622 675 Provisions for environmental rehabilitation 6,928 4,379 Trade and other payables 6,425 12,148 Provisions 1,777 1,718 Current income tax liabilities 30,981 9,265 Liabilities associated with assets classified as held for sale 510 2,434,389 Total equity and liabilities 2,221,354 2,270,749

US DOLLAR ABRIDGED COMPANY STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION Unaudited Audited 31 Dec 2024 31 Dec 2023 Assets US$'000 US$'000 Property, plant, and equipment 5,138 4,297 Intangible assets 712,257 553,888 Investment property 7,366 8,102 Investment in subsidiaries 7,163 10,968 Investments in associates 1,232,525 436,567 Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss 98,059 117,278 Trade and other receivables 110,325 189,336 Term deposits 191,223 171,337 Cash and cash equivalents 24,537 2,375 Assets classified as held for sale 2,637 - Total assets 2,391,230 1,494,148

Equity and liabilities Capital and reserves 2,226,447 1,453,480 Borrowings 119,734 - Deferred tax liability 6,306 24,006 Retirement Benefit Obligations 622 675 Provisions for environmental rehabilitation 2,550 2,117 Trade and other payables 3,690 3,041 Provisions 914 1,610 Current income tax liabilities 30,967 9,219 Total equity and liabilities 2,391,230 1,494,148

------------------------

This publication embed "Actusnews SECURITY MASTER ".

- SECURITY MASTER Key:

yGpyk5yXlpzFnGyfZpppbJRlm2lix5acZZOYlmRuacrKaZyRxpdnmZmWZnJimm1n

- Check this key: https://www.security-master-key.com.

------------------------



 Copyright Actusnews Wire

Receive by email the next press releases of the company by registering on www.actusnews.com, it's free

Full and original release in PDF format:https://www.actusnews.com/documents_communiques/ACTUS-0-91581-zccm-ih-fy-2024-provisional-unaudited-abridged-financial-results-sens-06.05.24.pdf
AM Best's Myles Gould, senior director, credit rating criteria research analytics, will speak on a panel discussion during The Insurer's first-ever European MGA Summit, to be held 10-11 June, 2025, in Amsterdam.

The panel will take place on Wednesday, 11 June, at 11:00 a.m. DST and is titled, "Navigating regulatory complexity in a fragmented environment." Panelists will discuss navigating a fragmented regulatory landscape and identify potential hurdles before they become hazards; compare regulatory approaches; and define best practices for supporting MGA growth. Additional panelists include Eva-Maria Barbosa, partner, Clyde Co, and Martin Mankabady, partner, Eversheds Sutherland. Gould has been with AM Best since 2013 and is responsible for the development, testing and review of AM Best's credit rating methodology and criteria. Formerly, he was AM Best's international analytical lead for the Performance Assessment (PA) for Delegated Underwriting Authority Enterprises (DUAEs).

Additionally, AM Best is a gold sponsor and will exhibit at the event, which will be held at the Leonardo Royal Hotel Amsterdam. Summit delegates can use the opportunity to meet with various AM Best participants from their London and Amsterdam offices and discuss insurance credit ratings, and MGA performance assessments, insurance research, data, analysis and many more resources available to re/insurance professionals.

This is the first year of The Insurer's European MGA Summit, which proposes a platform for European and international industry leaders to connect, exchange insights and explore innovative solutions in the growing DUAE market. The Insurer a Reuters company is a digital publisher covering the global property/casualty and reinsurance industries. To view more details, please visit the event overview.

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specializing in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com

Copyright 2025 by A.M. Best Company, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250507098537/en/

Contacts:

Edem Kuenyehia

Director, Market Development

& Communications

+44 20 7397 0280

edem.kuenyehia@ambest.com
MILAN, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- MainStreaming, the award-winning and innovative Edge Video Delivery Network, proudly announces its participation in the Euro Stack initiative, reinforcing its commitment to supporting Europe's technological innovation and digital sovereignty. As a key player in the EU's content delivery ecosystem, MainStreaming has also formally signed the Euro Stack Open Letter to the European Commission, advocating for a stronger, independent digital infrastructure in Europe.

Euro Stack is a collective of European technology companies and organizations working together to ensure that Europe's digital future is built on open, competitive, and sovereign foundations. By fostering collaboration between cloud, platform, and service providers across the continent, Euro Stack aims to create a robust ecosystem that empowers European businesses and protects the continent's strategic autonomy in the digital space.

As a European company with a solid market presence across the EU, MainStreaming has long believed in the importance of reclaiming control over digital infrastructure to ensure resilience, competitiveness, and security. The company supports the view that Europe must nurture its own technology champions, reduce dependency on external providers, and build a collaborative ecosystem that drives innovation while safeguarding the continent's digital assets.

"Joining Euro Stack is a natural step for MainStreaming, as we share the initiative's mission to build a sovereign and collaborative European digital ecosystem," said Antonio Corrado, Founder & Chairman of MainStreaming. "Our intelligent media delivery solutions already empower broadcasters, telcos, and enterprises within Europe, and we believe that through collective action, we can accelerate innovation and secure Europe's digital future."

With its Intelligent Media Delivery Platform, MainStreaming enables broadcasters, OTTs, and network operators to stream video content efficiently while ensuring full control over data and delivery infrastructure. This aligns with Euro Stack's principles of openness, interoperability, and competitiveness: key pillars for reducing dependency on non-European solutions and fostering digital autonomy.

By signing the Euro Stack Open Letter addressed to the European Commission, MainStreaming joins over 200 leading European tech organizations in calling for policies and frameworks that support European digital players. The letter emphasizes the need for the EU to encourage innovation through fair competition, open standards, and strategic investments in European technologies.

Euro Stack's initiative resonates with a growing movement across Europe to develop an independent tech stack that can compete globally while upholding European values such as data privacy, user rights, and market fairness. Through this alliance, MainStreaming aims to contribute its expertise in video delivery infrastructure to build a more resilient, high-performance European digital ecosystem.

"We believe that Europe has the talent, the innovation, and the determination to lead in the next era of digital transformation," added Corrado. "But this requires commitment from both the private and public sectors to invest in sovereign technologies and collaborate for the good of the continent's digital future."

For more information about Euro Stack and its mission, visit euro-stack.eu. For further details about Antonio Corrado's position towards Europe's digital sovereignty, read his full article.

About MainStreaming

MainStreaming is an Intelligent Media Delivery Company that empowers enterprises, media, and gaming companies to ensure the best Quality of Experience to their audience, providing scalability and full control over the video distribution process.

Its solution improves network efficiency, delivers exceptional reliability, enhances Quality of Service, and provides a tangible financial and environmental ROI.

MainStreaming Contact:

Sara Mariotti

press@mainstreaming.tv

Phone: +39 02 868 969

Email: press@mainstreaming.tv

Website: www.mainstreaming.com

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2680436/MainStreaming.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/mainstreaming-joins-euro-stack-initiative-to-champion-european-tech-innovation-and-digital-sovereignty-302447353.html
In this month's issue : Allica Bank's SME revolution, Marc Benioff's lasting legacy, exclusive insights from Equifax ANZ, ecolytiq, SaaScada, and a spotlight on the world's top sustainable finance firms.

LONDON, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- FinTech Magazine , published by BizClik - one of the UK's fastest-growing digital media companies - has just released its May 2025 edition , packed with exclusive insights, bold ideas and industry-leading commentary on the future of digital finance.

What's Inside the May Edition?

This issue dives into the people, platforms and policies redefining financial services across the globe - from cloud-first transformation and AI innovation to sustainable banking and cybersecurity.

Cover Story: Allica Bank

Championing the UK's underserved SMEs, Allica Bank has risen fast under CEO Richard Davies, combining deep sector understanding with a tech-first approach.

Marc Benioff - A Lifetime of Achievement

Salesforce's visionary founder reflects on the company's evolution into an AI leader and the next frontier for its digital labour platform.

"Agentforce 2.0 takes our revolutionary Salesforce digital labour platform to another level."

Equifax ANZ

CTO Paul Gladigau shares how strategic partnerships and cloud-first thinking are shaping the company's digital transformation.

SaaScada

Co-Founder Steve Round explains how cloud banking and real-time data are helping bridge the financial divide.

"Real-time data is the key differentiator for fintechs in delivering meaningful change to people's financial well-being."

Zero-Trust Security in Focus

Edward Williams (Trustwave), Raluca Saceanu (Smarttech247), and Juan Manuel Rebull (Yuno) examine how to strike the right balance between security and speed in modern financial services.

Bridging Banking's Climate Gap: The ecolytiq Effect

With insights from David Lais (ecolytiq) and Peter McIntyre (HSBC), this feature urges the financial sector to go beyond carbon footprinting with true climate transparency.

The Global CBDC Landscape

With the US pulling back, what's next for central bank digital currencies? Industry leaders from NTT DATA, Swift, and UST offer their views.

Top 10: Sustainable Finance Firms Reshaping the Industry

Explore the institutions leading in responsible finance:

BlackRock | HSBC | Amundi | BNP Paribas | L&G | Allianz | ING | Nordea | FCA | EIB

Whether you're focused on AI, cloud, sustainability, or financial inclusion - this edition delivers sharp insight from the leaders shaping what's next in fintech.

Read the full edition now: https://fintechmagazine.com/magazine/fintech-magazine-may-2025

About BizClik

BizClik is one of the fastest-growing digital media companies in the UK, host to a growing portfolio of industry-leading global brands and communities.

BizClik's expanding portfolio includes Technology, AI, FinTech, InsurTech, Supply Chain, Procurement, Energy, Mining, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Mobile, Data Centre, Cyber, and Sustainability.

For more information, please visit our website .

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/fintech-magazine-may-2025-edition-is-live--explore-the-future-of-finance-302447724.html
More Than 400 Merchants Within the Network Gain Access to Jscrambler's Leading Client-Side Protection for Skimming Prevention and Compliance

MINNEAPOLIS and PORTO, Portugal, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Elavon, a global leader in payment processing, and Jscrambler, a pioneer in client-side protection and compliance, today announced a partnership to help merchants comply with PCI DSS requirements 6.4.3 and 11.6.1. Through this agreement, Elavon's network of more than 400 merchants can leverage Jscrambler's Client-Side Protection and Compliance Platform to safeguard their business from escalating web skimming attacks.

The client-side protection market is growing rapidly due to significant rises in web skimming attacks, including Magecart attacks, that target payment pages and cardholder data. According to a report from Recorded Future's Insikt Group, Magecart infections surged by 103% over the first half of 2024. As a result, the e-commerce and payment industries face increasing pressure to secure client-side environments, driven by the escalation ign attacks and also PCI DSS requirements 6.4.3 and 11.6.1, which mandate script inventory management and tamper detection.

Using Jscrambler's Client-Side Protection and Compliance Platform and PCI DSS solution, merchants can meet PCI DSS requirements while preventing web skimming attacks, securing payment pages, and maintaining compliance efficiently. Now, through this collaboration, the two companies combine Elavon's extensive experience as a global leader in payment processing with Jscrambler's innovative technologies to address the critical need for robust payment security.

"Our vast network of merchants is increasingly aware of the growing threats targeting payment pages and the growing urgency to take action by following the guidance set forth by PCI DSS and specifically requirements 6.4.3 and 11.6.1," said Andrew McCarroll, PCIP Customer Payment Security Executive, Elavon. "By partnering with Jscrambler, Elavon is offering merchants easy access to Jscrambler's PCI DSS solution. Built on Jscrambler's decade of client-side security experience and its role as a trusted PCI SSC advisor, the solution secures payment environments so merchants can fend off skimming attacks and ensure ongoing customer trust."

Jscrambler's PCI DSS solution delivers the following capabilities:

Script Management: Auto-discovers and authorizes payment page scripts, reducing manual approvals by grouping vendor behaviors.

Skimming Prevention: Blocks unauthorized data access in real-time, protecting against web skimming and formjacking.

Tamper Detection: Monitors HTTP headers and page content, alerting on unauthorized changes via email, SIEM, or Slack.

Hybrid Architecture: Supports agentless and agent-based deployment for flexibility, enabling rapid compliance for complex or acquired payment pages.

PCI DSS Expertise: Provides direct access to former PCI Security Standards Council members and a strong bench of PCI DSS experts.

QSA Alliance Program: Provides access to enablement sessions, assessor forums, and inventory reports to streamline audits.

"As attackers increase their focus on merchants' payment pages, Elavon is not only raising awareness, it's taking action to help deliver solutions to mitigate these damaging attacks," said Carlos Goncalves, VP of Partnerships & Growth at Jscrambler. "Their trust in our PCI DSS compliance expertise and our innovative platform will enable us to bring Jscrambler's industry-leading client-side protection to Elavon's merchants, strengthening their payment security and the larger digital payment ecosystem."

On May 20, Jscrambler and Elavon will be hosting a webinar titled "Mastering PCI DSS Requirements 6.4.3 and 11.6.1: Practical Solutions for Merchant Compliance", where executives will delve into the value of the partnership in greater detail while providing additional insights on PCI DSS v4.0.1 requirements and Jscrambler's PCI DSS solution. The session will feature John Elliott (Jscrambler Security Advisor), Gareth Bowker (Jscrambler Technical Advisor), and Andrew McCarroll (Elavon PCIP Customer Payment Security Executive) and include a Q&A session for all attendees. For more information on the webinar, visit here.

About Elavon

Elavon is wholly owned by U.S. Bank (NYSE: USB), the fifth-largest bank in the United States, and provides end-to-end payment processing solutions and services to more than 2 million customers in the United States, Europe, and Canada. As the leading provider for airlines and a top five provider in hospitality, healthcare, retail, and public sector/education, Elavon's innovative payment solutions are designed to solve pain points for businesses from small to the largest global enterprises.

About Jscrambler

Jscrambler is the leader in Client-Side Protection and Compliance. Jscrambler is the first to merge advanced polymorphic JavaScript obfuscation with fine-grained third-party tag protection in a unified Client-Side Protection and Compliance Platform. Jscrambler's integrated solution ensures a robust defense against current and emerging client-side cyber threats, data leaks, misconfigurations, and IP theft, empowering software development and digital teams to innovate securely online with JavaScript. Jscrambler's Code Integrity product safeguards first-party JavaScript through state-of-the-art obfuscation and exclusive runtime protection. Jscrambler's Webpage Integrity product mitigates threats and risks posed by third-party tags, all while ensuring compliance with the new version 4 of PCI DSS. Jscrambler's Iframe Integrity empowers PSPs to deliver seamless protection, PCI DSS compliance, and SAQ A eligibility to merchants. With Jscrambler, businesses adopt a unified, future-proof client-side security policy, all while achieving compliance with emerging security standards. Jscrambler serves a diverse range of customers, including top Fortune 500 companies, online retailers, airlines, media outlets, and financial services firms whose success depends on safely engaging with their customers online.

For more information, visit www.jscrambler.com, or follow Jscrambler on LinkedIn or X.

CONTACT:

For Jscrambler:

Doug Fraim

Guyer Group for Jscrambler

jscrambler@guyergroup.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/elavon-and-jscrambler-partner-to-strengthen-pci-dss-compliance-for-merchants-302447828.html
The May edition of Sustainability Magazine features insights from IFS, Arcadis, PLDCA, Kevlinx, Mitsubishi Power and more. Explore the strategies, technologies and leaders shaping the future of sustainable business.

LONDON, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BizClik , the UK's fastest-growing B2B digital media company, has published the May 2025 edition of Sustainability Magazine . This latest release delivers high-level interviews, thought leadership and practical insight from across the global sustainability sector.

Sustainability Magazine - May 2025 Edition

This issue highlights the people and projects driving measurable impact across climate action, green innovation and net-zero transformation.

Cover Feature: PLDCA - Stowarzyszenie Polish Data Center Association

Managing Director Piotr Kowalski explains why Poland is emerging as a leading European market for data centre development, with a focus on advanced thermal management and sustainable infrastructure.

Key Interviews and Features

Sophie Graham, IFS - The Chief Sustainability Officer urges companies to focus on performance over compliance in response to shifting EU regulations.

Kevlinx Data Centers - CEO Eric Boonstra and COO Eric Liscia discuss building AI-ready, sustainable data centres in Europe's emerging digital economies.

Arcadis - Mark McKenna, Global Sustainability Director, outlines the company's nature-positive approach to embedding sustainability across the built environment.

A1's Data Centers - Bojan Klisnan, Head of Data Center, shares how A1 is leading digital transformation with state-of-the-art facilities.

Mitsubishi Power - Javier Cavada Camino, President and CEO for EMEA, explores the potential of hydrogen technology and the evolving policy landscape shaping its future.

Event Preview

A first look at Sustainability LIVE : Chicago and Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE : Chicago, taking place at the Willis Tower on 28-29 May. The preview offers insight into what to expect from these flagship events.

Top 10 Sustainable Construction Projects

This month's ranking highlights pioneering examples of modern architecture known for their sustainability credentials, ambition and design excellence.

Also Featuring

Executives from the LEGO Group and Earthly Labs explore natural versus artificial carbon solutions. Cisco highlights how its technology is enabling next-generation corporate climate action. KPMG examines whether AI can help solve the grid challenges facing the energy sector, and Saskia van Gendt, Chief Sustainability Officer at Blue Yonder, stresses the importance of transparency in sustainable supply chains.

Start reading the May edition:https://sustainabilitymag.com/magazine/sustainability-magazine-may-2025

About BizClik

BizClik is one of the fastest-growing digital media companies in the UK, home to a growing portfolio of global brands and executive communities. Its expanding coverage includes Technology, AI, FinTech, InsurTech, Supply Chain, Procurement, Energy, Mining, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Mobile, Data Centre, Cyber and Sustainability.

For more information, visit: https://www.bizclikmedia.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bizclik-media-launches-may-edition-of-sustainability-magazine-302447608.html
Emma Ridley says she has been "kicked out" of a film convention over her political views.

Emma Ridley (left) starred in the 1985 film Return to Oz alongside Fairuza Balk (right)

The 52-year-old actress played Princess Ozma in the 1985 Disney film 'Return to Oz' and was due to make an appearance to celebrate its 40th anniversary at OzCon International in California in June but after organisers announced she would "no longer be appearing", she has insisted that it was down her personal beliefs, and alleged that she was not even informed of the decision before it was made public.

She wrote on Facebook: "So you may have heard or just so you know -I've been kicked out of Ozcon burbank ca in june - Whilst in Mexico for my firstborn's -first wedding in the family, I got messages from fans, saying how sad they were, that I've been kicked out.

"I didn't even know! They didn't manage to connect before they made the announcement and apparently Democrats want everyone to be brought down with them as opposed to Republicans Wanting everyone's light to shine

with a win-win for everyone so that's my definition!

Emma insisted that despite the fact that her character is temporarily portrayed as a boy in L. Frank Baum's original book, her alter-ego was always of a female gender identity in that film adaptation, and claimed that some within the trans community now felt "threatened" by her presence.

She said: "Let me be straight. Ozma starts out as Tip, a boy in the L Frank books, but in the Disney Return to Oz -Ozma is always a girl.

"Apparently, the LBGTQ alphabet soup community are offended by my presence or even more use the words threatened by my presence.

"And when I point out, that Gumps cant fly in reality and pumpkins dont have bodies and pumpkin heads cant talk neither can chickens ( love you Billina )."

Oz Convention is the world's longest-running festival dedicated to the fantasy book series, and also explores the history of the Judy Garland film as well as spin-offs such as 'The Wiz' and 'Wicked'.

Emma was left "shocked" by the decision to allegedly remove her from the event, and claimed that she had "planned [her] whole summer" around it.

She said: "If my political views have been confused by their delusion, Im not sorry.

"I was just quite looking forward to wearing my big beautiful green and pink ball gown and tiaras for a weekend to celebrate Ozma and the 40th reunion of return to Oz but cest la vie! Ive been kicked out of better places

"I was in shock at seven in the morning in Mexico when I planned my whole summer around being there for their event and I have much more exciting work to be done on the castle in france so enjoy your return to OZ without YOUR QUEEN

OZMA THE ONLY REAL TRUE RULER OF OZ " (sic)

(and the first real life, Disney princess."

In a further update to her Instagram Stories, Emma shared an email she sent to organisers in which she denied their claims that they had tried to contact her before making the announcement.

She wrote: " I woke up to fans messing me that they are sad I NEVER GOT A MESSAGE FROM YOU FIRST BEFORE YOU

POSTED THAT I WASNT COMING!. You say I saw a message and did not respond- can I see a

screenshot of that message please as I never received it!"

In 'Return to Oz' - which acted as an unofficial sequel to the 1939 classic 'The Wizard of Oz' - Emma starred as the princess and rightful ruler of the now-destroyed magical land who had been enchanted into a mirror by Mombi (Jean Marsh) until Dorothy (Fairuza Balk) was able to save the day with the power of her ruby slippers.

Following her initial brush with fame, Emma became something of a tabloid personality and flew to Vegas at the age of 15 to marry nightclub owner Robert Pereno.

In 1997, she married music producer Philip Ehrlich and had son Otis with him, but they split after a year, and she went on to marry David Tyler in 2004 and have son Elim with him as well as daughter Isis.

They divorced in 2009 and Emma, after finding a new career as a fitness instructor, got married for a fourth time but later claimed she had been "ate up and spat out" by the world of celebrity.

In 2018, she reflected: "Celebrity ate me up and spat me out.

"There were more low points than you can imagine.

"I see kids today obsessing about fame and wonder if they truly understand the price you pay to live in such a vacuous world where everything is fake, from the friends who pretend to like you to the fake smile you plaster on every time you go out."
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Pan Global Resources Inc. (TSXV: PGZ) (OTCQB: PGZFF) will be participating in Deutsche Goldmesse Spring 2025, which will take place on May 16th and 17th at The Westin Grand Frankfurt.

Members of Pan Global Resources Inc. management will be taking meetings throughout the day, and also present to an audience of European investors.

An online registration form is available, and Investors can register to attend at:

https://deutschegoldmesse.online/investor-registration-3/

The Deutsche Goldmesse website is updated regularly with attending companies, keynote speakers, schedule, and other important details. www.deutschegoldmesse.com

About Pan Global Resources Inc.

Pan Global Resources Inc. is actively targeting copper-rich mineral deposits, given copper's compelling supply-demand fundamentals and outlook for strong long-term prices as a critical metal for global electrification and energy transition. The Company's flagship Escacena Project is located in the prolific Iberian Pyrite Belt in southern Spain, where a favourable permitting track record, excellent infrastructure, mining and professional expertise, and support for copper as a Strategic Raw Material by the European Commission collectively define a tier-one low-risk jurisdiction for mining investment. The Pan Global team comprises proven talent in exploration, discovery, development, and mine operations - all of which are committed to operating safely and with utmost respect for the environment and our partnered communities. The Company is a member, and operates under the principles, of the United Nations Global Compact.

About Deutsche Goldmesse

Deutsche Goldmesse is Germany's premier mining investment conference, based in Frankfurt - one of Europe's most important financial capitals. The exclusive two-day event brings together leading minds in the industry to foster new business opportunities and facilitate valuable relationships. Each edition will showcase up to 35 mining companies across various commodities and stages alongside internationally renowned keynote speakers, media personalities, and other influential figures in the industry.

Hosted by Soar Financial Partners, Deutsche Goldmesse provides a unique platform where company management can connect with a vast network of European institutional and HNW investors, retail investors, analysts, influencers, newsletter writers, media, and other local partners.

SOURCE: Soar Financial Partners
STC-1010 addresses the need for effective therapies in microsatellite stable (MSS) colorectal cancer (CRC), a subtype with low immunogenicity and poor response to immune checkpoint inhibitors. (95% of CRC patients)

The results demonstrate STC-1010's ability to enhance activation of dendritic cells and CD8? T cells, driving anti-tumor activity across multiple CRC models with high manufacturing reproducibility.

Data support the advancement of STC-1010 to clinical Phase I/II evaluation in non-resectable or metastatic MSS and MSI-H CRC patients.

Brenus Pharma, a French clinical-stage biotechnology company, presented new preclinical data on its lead immunotherapy candidate, STC-1010, during the Late-Breaking Research: Immunology 3 session at the AACR Annual Meeting 2025, held April 25-30 in Chicago, IL.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250507231535/en/

George Alzeeb, PhD, Innovation Manager at Brenus Pharma, presenting the company's latest preclinical data on STC-1010 an off-the-shelf vaccine-based immunotherapy during the Late-Breaking session at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting 2025. This poster highlights the potential of STC-1010 to induce a robust anti-tumor response, supporting Brenus Pharma's novel approach in immuno-oncology and clincial development.

The data highlight advances from Brenus Pharma's proprietary Stimulated-Tumor-Ghost Cell (SGC) platform, a next-generation precision immuno-oncology approach showcasing its potential to initiate a robust anti-tumor response in colorectal cancer-a major unmet need in solid tumors.

Key findings demonstrate the reproducibility of STC-1010's anti-tumor profile across multiple manufacturing batches and preclinical models (in vivo, in ovo, ex vivo) including those modified to be resistant to current immunotherapies. Dendritic cells showed increased antigen presentation and activation of CD8? T cells with STC-1010, resulting in significant tumor cell apoptosis (tumor killing) and reduced metastasis.

"Immunotherapy was clearly a central focus at AACR 2025, with growing recognition across the scientific community that cancer vaccines are now a promising strategy for both treatment and prevention." said George Alzeeb, PhD, Innovation Manager at Brenus Pharma. "We're proud to be part of this momentum and look forward to the next steps."

Title: "Preclinical efficacy of an innovative therapeutic cancer vaccine: a new era for immunotherapy" LB383 Session: Late-Breaking Research: Immunology 3 [poster]

Authors:

George Alzeeb, Iseulys Richert, Corentin Richart, Paul Marteau, Lionel Chalus, Marion Brun, Yan Wan4, Corinne Tortorelli, Benoit Pinteur, Paul Bravetti, Celine Gongora5, Antoine Italiano6, Francois Ghiringhelli7

Brenus Pharma ICMUB UMR CNRS 6302 Explicyte 4Inovotion 5INSERM U1194 6Institut Bergonie 7INSERM UMR1231

About us:

Brenus' off-the-shelf platform empowers immune cells in vivo to fight cancer by mimicking cancer nature and making it visible to the immune system. We are developing a solid tumor pipeline leveraging our proprietary next-generation precision platform and making patient once again actor in their treatment.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250507231535/en/

Contacts:

contact@brenus-pharma.com
Die Finanzwelt ist im Umbruch! Nach Jahren der Dominanz erschuttert Donald Trumps erratische Wirtschaftspolitik das Fundament des amerikanischen Kapitalismus. Handelskriege, Rekordzolle und politische Isolation haben eine Kapitalflucht historischen Ausmaes ausgelost.



Milliarden stromen aus den USA  und suchen neue, lukrative Ziele. Und genau hier kommt China ins Spiel. Trotz aller Spannungen wachst die chinesische Wirtschaft dynamisch weiter, Innovation und Digitalisierung treiben die Markte an.



Im kostenlosen Spezialreport stellen wir Ihnen 5 Aktien aus China vor, die vom US-Niedergang profitieren und das Potenzial haben, den Markt regelrecht zu uberflugeln. Wer jetzt klug investiert, sichert sich den Zugang zu den neuen Wachstums-Champions von morgen.



Holen Sie sich den neuesten Report! Verpassen Sie nicht, welche 5 Aktien die Konkurrenz aus den USA outperformen durften, und laden Sie sich das Gratis-PDF jetzt kostenlos herunter.



Dieses exklusive Angebot gilt aber nur fur kurze Zeit! Daher jetzt downloaden!
MADRID, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Job&Talent, a world-leading and AI-powered marketplace for essential work, is pleased to announce the appointment of Linda Hoglund as Chief Financial Officer. As Job&Talent enters the next phase of its development with focus on AI-powered growth and expansion of its tech-enabled workforce management platform, Linda will be part of the leadership team driving this path forwards.

Linda Hoglund has over 20 years of international experience in strategy, finance, operations and general management. Prior to joining Job&Talent, she served as the Chief Operating Officer at Klarna, where she was responsible for driving operational excellence across the organization and supporting continued growth and corporate governance. She also previously held the role of Chief Financial Officer at Klarna. Linda's career spans several high-growth and publicly listed companies, including Chief Financial Officer roles at Electronic Arts, Grab and Digital Illusions. Linda Hoglund succeeds Paolo Savini-Nicci, who stepped down from the role after a planned transition period to spend some well-deserved time with his family and focus on new projects.

Linda Hoglund, Chief Financial Officer at Job&Talent, said:"I am thrilled to join Job&Talent, a pioneering force in the industry. I look forward to leveraging my diverse financial and operational expertise to drive strategic financial initiatives and support the continued growth of this dynamic organization. Together with the leadership team and our Board members, we will lead the organization to unlock the next stage of growth and navigate the future with agility, resilience, and a commitment to excellence."

Juan Urdiales, Co-Founder and Co-CEO at Job&Talent, said:"We are delighted to welcome Linda as our CFO. Her appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Job&Talent, as her expertise in steering companies through various growth stages aligns seamlessly with our vision for the future. With extensive experience and a proven track record in finance and strategy, she is well-equipped to support Job&Talent through its next phase of growth.

We also want to express our gratitude to our outgoing CFO, Paolo. Since joining Job&Talent in early 2019, he has been instrumental in guiding us through multiple successful funding rounds and scaling the company. On behalf of the entire team, we thank him for his invaluable contributions and wish him all the best in his future endeavors."

MEDIA CONTACT

Kingsum Li

Senior Manager, Global Communications

press@jobandtalent.com

ABOUT JOB&TALENT

Job&Talent is a world-leading marketplace for essential work, matching great people with great companies directly through its platform. Founded in 2009, its mission is to empower workers by offering stability, faster job placements and fair treatment, while supporting companies with efficient workforce management solutions. The AI-enabled platform streamlines and automates workforce management, helping businesses achieve higher productivity and workforce reliability. In 2024, Job&Talent placed over 300,000 workers in more than 3,250 companies across industries like logistics and retail. Headquartered in Madrid, Job&Talent operates in 10 countries across Europe, the U.S., and Latin America, backed by leading investors such as Atomico, Kinnevik, and Softbank. For more information, please visit www.jobandtalent.com .

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4caa840d-eecf-49f8-ace7-0accddc40a5a
 New global research reveals that Gen Z are not as spontaneous as many might think, with less than 1 in 10 saying they make plans with less than 24 hours' notice

 A third admitted that overthinking is holding them back, while 35% blame work or study commitments

 The brand dials up spontaneity, following the launch of its The Beer with Latin Vibe campaign, Desperados - the beer flavoured with Latin spirit - is continuing to encourage Gen Z and Gen Y to enjoy life more freely

 This was most recently brought to life through the Superlatino event in Madrid, spearheaded by a performance by the campaign's frontmen; Colombian producer OVY ON THE DRUMS and Venezuelan rapper MICRO TDH





AMSTERDAM, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- New global research, revealed today, highlights that Gen Z's desire for spontaneity is struggling to survive in an ever increasing culture of over-planning and overthinking.

The research, commissioned by Desperados - the beer flavoured with Latin spirit - reveals that almost half of Gen Z (42%) wish they were more spontaneous. Yet, a third claim that overthinking (33%) is holding them back from living instinctively and those aged 25-34 are the biggest overthinkers, with 4 in 10 (38%) citing this as holding them back.

Over half (52%) of Gen Z and Millennials have not been to a gig, event, or even on a night out with less than 24 hours' notice in the last six months. But even that is too much for some, as 14% of all those surveyed admit they have never said yes to an event planned less than 24 hours in advance.

7 in 10 (68%) Gen Z typically make plans over a week in advance, with over a third (36%) opting to make plans with at least two weeks' notice.

Proving that the drive to live in the moment can be held back by those around you, over a third (36%) of Gen Z claim that having a more spontaneous social circle would make it easier for they, themselves, to be more spontaneous.

Additionally, this audience continue to scope out spots on social media instead of making the spontaneous leap. 52% of Gen Z claim to rely on social media to make plans, and nearly a quarter (23%) say they would like to do so less.

From the global research, Brits are revealed as the least spontaneous nation, as nearly a third of the population (32%) admitted that they are rarely or never spontaneous. 2 in 10 Brits (19%) even make most of their plans over a month in advance

The research follows Desperados' new global campaign; The Beer with Latin Vibe, which launched earlier this year, spearheaded by a partnership with globally-renowned and Latin Grammy award winning Colombian music artist, OVY ON THE DRUMS as Creative Director.

In his first foray in the new role, OVY collaborated with Venezuelan rapper MICRO TDH to release "GUAO GUAO" - a brand new track that celebrates the vibrancy, energy and spontaneity of Latin culture, and its ability to bring high energy moments to the most unlikely of settings.

Ligia Patrocinio, Global Head of Desperados said: "It's clear from the research that there is a real lack of spontaneity among younger generations. The drive is there but everyday constraints - whether that be work, social media, or overthinking - are holding Gen Z back from living life more freely. With Latin spirit being an integral part of our brand identity at Desperados, we want to draw on this vibrant culture - and everything it stands for - to encourage this audience to break free of constraints and live a more spontaneous and fun life, creating great memories."

This campaign marks the start of Avenida Desperados; a series of events taking over the streets in several European cities to transform them into Latin American party zones. This was kicked off with Superlatino in Madrid, a pop up supermarket experience with a surprise performance by OVY ON THE DRUMS AND MICRO TDH and over 100+ creators to bring it to life.

For future events, balconies, storefronts, and even alleyways will provide the setting for spontaneous experiences that hijack and elevate everyday moments in a celebration of Latin culture and all it has to offer, as the brand consistently finds new ways to engage and entertain the Desperados community.

Notes to Editors

Research conducted by One Poll between 25th March- 2nd April 2025, with 10,000 nat rep respondents across UK, NL, PL, ES and DE

For more information please contact desperados@wearetheromans.com or joseph.brophy@heineken.com

About HEINEKEN

HEINEKEN is the world's most international brewer. It is the leading developer and marketer of premium beer and cider brands. Led by the Heineken brand, the Group has a portfolio of more than 300 international, regional, local and specialty beers and ciders. We are committed to innovation, long-term brand investment, disciplined sales execution and focused cost management. Through "Brewing a Better World", sustainability is embedded in the business.

HEINEKEN has a well-balanced geographic footprint with leadership positions in both developed and developing markets. We employ over 90,000 employees and operate breweries, malteries, cider plants and other production facilities in more than 70 countries. Most recent information is available on HEINEKEN's website: www.theHEINEKENcompany.com and follow us on Twitter via @HEINEKENCorp.

About Desperados

Born out of wild experimentation twenty years ago, Desperados dared to brew the world's first Latin Spirit Flavoured Beer. Ever since, we've been rewriting the rules and igniting the party spirit through wild experimentation around the world.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/84bb9d65-289c-4d8e-b997-00b4e132942f
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Dryden Gold Corp. (TSXV: DRY) (OTCQB: DRYGF) ("Dryden Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce drill results for the new hanging wall discovery on the Elora Gold System in the Gold Rock Camp. The Company first announced this intercept with significant visible gold ("VG") on April 8. Assays have now confirmed results of 301.67 g/t over 3.90 meters including 1,930 g/t over 0.60 meters and represent a newly discovered hanging wall zone with folded quartz stringer veins hosted in sheared basalts (Figure 1). This newly intercepted hanging wall gold mineralization in hole KW-25-003 is approximately 80 meters from main Jubilee high-grade zone at a true depth of 250 meters (Figure 2).

Trey Wasser, CEO of Dryden Gold stated, "We continue to make high-grade gold discoveries across our district-scale property. The discovery of this new zone shows the potential for hanging wall and footwall mineralized structures hosting significant gold mineralization similar to our discoveries last year on the Big Master Gold System. This discovery was facilitated by our extensive mapping program last summer that has revealed a third structural trend ("D3") in the Gold Rock Camp (Figure 3). Our field work and structural interpretation continues to yield results at the drill bit. As we drill test regional targets at Mud Lake, Sherridon and Hyndman as part of our fully funded exploration program for 2025, the market will begin to realize the full potential of this incredible under-explored property. Shareholders should expect drill results and other news flow on a very consistent basis into the fall."





Figure 1: Visible Gold from KW-25-003 HW Zone

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9776/251077_782fcfd1f479595a_001full.jpg





Figure 2: Left: Map of Gold Rock area showing mineralized structures. Right: Cross-section of hole KW-25-003 with mineralized structures.



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9776/251077_782fcfd1f479595a_002full.jpg

The geology team will now increase its focus on unlocking the potential of these additional mineralized structures for hosting high-grade gold zones (Figure 3). The occurrence of multiple parallel mineralized structures is another striking similarity to the Red Lake Mine and the Company is planning follow up holes to further test this new hanging wall structure to the northeast where it is completely open on strike.

Drilling Update

The Elora Gold System, which hosts the potential for several high-grade zones at the structural intersections, will be a major focus of the 2025 drill campaign. To date, Dryden Gold has drilled 12 holes totalling approximately 4,083 meters testing the Elora Gold System in late 2024 and 2025. Six of these holes targeted the down plunge mineralization potential on the Jubilee high-grade zone between 250 and 500m true depth (Figure 3 and Figure 4). Initial 2025 results have been favourable on the Jubilee zone as all five deeper holes have intersected zones of sulphide mineralization and shearing at target depth with results back on holes KW-25-001 through KW-25-003 showing more down plunge potential on the Jubilee Zone (Table 1).

Table 1: Dryden Gold Drill Results *Reported intervals are drilled core lengths; assay values are uncut

Target Area Drillhole

From To Length (m)* Grade (g/t Au) Jubilee Zone KW-25-001

296.97 300.04 3.07 4.00 Including 298.55 299.00 0.45 18.10 Jubilee Zone KW-25-002

409.32 410.69 1.37 2.54 HW Zone KW-25-003

265.1 269.00 3.90 301.67 Including 266.3 266.90 0.60 1,930.00 Jubilee Zone KW-25-003

388.6 391.00 3.40 1.01

The next drill targets in Dryden Gold's fully funded 2025 exploration program will test the Elora Gold System along strike northeast at the historic Laurentian Mine and Intersection Target (Figure 3). The Company is also permitted to drill the continuation of the Elora Gold System and Big Master Gold System to the northeast including the newly discovered Mud Lake target approximately two kilometres along strike.

Targeting High-Grade Through Structural Interpretation

The geological team has been improving its structural interpretation for the Gold Rock Camp area. Using this new more detailed understanding of the three major structural trends the team will be targeting their intersections to host additional high-grade zones along the northeast trending mineralized systems.





Figure 3: Gold Rock Map - Simplified Deformation and Gold Events



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9776/251077_782fcfd1f479595a_003full.jpg





Figure 4: Long Section Elora Gold System - Jubilee and Intersection Target



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9776/251077_782fcfd1f479595a_004full.jpg

For updated technical drilling details of our 2025 drill program, please click here.

Closing of Centerra Gold Inc. Top-Up Financing

Further to its previous news release of April 23, 2025, the Company announces that, as a result of receiving a top-up notice from Centerra Gold Inc. ("Centerra") to retain its 9.99% interest in the Company, it has now issued an aggregate of 1,087,295 common shares to Centerra at a price of $0.1350 per share for a total consideration of $146,784.83.

Grant of Stock Options

The Company announces that it has granted an aggregate of 300,000 incentive stock options under the Company's stock option plan to employees of the Company. The options are exercisable at a price of $0.24 per share for a period of 10 years from the date of grant. The options will vest 25% every three, six, nine and twelve months from the date of grant for a total period of one year. The granting of stock options is subject to TSX Venture Exchange Approval.

UPCOMING MARKETING EVENT

Management will be participating at the Metals Investor Forum in Vancouver on May 9, 2025. President, Maura Kolb, P. Geo. will be presenting at 3:30pm PDT as part of newsletter writer, Jeff Clark's panel. Dryden Gold will be updating investors on the current drill program and management will be available to meet in person at our booth from 9-5:30pm PDT. We welcome the opportunity for investors to review our updated corporate presentation, linked here.

Qualified Person

The technical disclosure in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Maura J. Kolb, M.Sc., P.Geo., President of Dryden Gold and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 of the Canadian Securities Administrators.

Analytical Laboratory and QA/QC Procedures

The Company is drilling NQ size core. Samples are cut in half, with half going to the lab for analysis and half kept as a record. All sampling completed by Dryden Gold Corp. within its exploration programs is subject to a Company standard of internal quality control and quality assurance (QA/QC) programs which include the insertion of certified reference materials, blank materials, and a level of duplicate analysis. Drill samples from the 2024 and 2025 program were sent to Activation Laboratories, with sample preparation and analysis in Dryden, where they were processed for gold analysis by 50-gram fire assay with an atomic absorption finish and over limits determined by Fire Assay with a gravimetric finish. Select samples were analyzed using metallic screens. Activation Laboratories systems conform to requirements of ISO/IEC Standard 17025 guidelines and meets assay requirements outlined for NI 43-101.

ABOUT DRYDEN GOLD CORP.

Dryden Gold Corp. is an exploration company focused on the discovery of high-grade gold mineralization listed on the TSX Venture Exchange ("DRY") and on the OTCQB marketplace ("DRYGF"). The Company has a strong management team and Board of Directors comprised of experienced individuals with a track record of building shareholder value through property acquisition and consolidation, exploration success, and mergers and acquisitions. Dryden Gold controls a 100% interest in a dominant strategic land position in the Dryden District of Northwestern Ontario. Dryden Gold's property package includes historic gold mines but has seen limited modern exploration. The property hosts high-grade gold mineralization over 50km of potential strike length along the Manitou-Dinorwic deformation zone. The property has excellent infrastructure, enjoys collaborative relationships with First Nations communities and benefits from proximity to an experienced mining workforce.

For more information go to our website www.drydengold.com.

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.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: the acquisition of the Property, receipt of corporate and regulatory approvals, issuance of common shares; future development plans; future acquisitions; exploration programs; and the business and operations of Dryden Gold. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "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 statements." Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; risks related to the outcome of legal proceedings; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings including receipt of TSX Venture Exchange approval for the acquisition of the Property; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in Dryden Gold's and the Company's disclosure record. 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 forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and Dryden Gold and the Company do not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. Actual events or results could differ materially from Dryden Gold's and the Company's expectations or projections.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251077

SOURCE: Dryden Gold Corp.
DELRAY BEACH, Fla., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The global automotive camera market size is projected to grow from USD 8.40 billion in 2025 to USD 15.34 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 9.0%, according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The global automotive camera market is witnessing rapid growth, fueled by rising demand for ADAS features such as automotive cruise control, lane departure warning, parking assist, and blind spot detection. The adoption is mainly driven by stringent vehicle safety regulations in European countries and Japan, as well as OEMs' preference to accommodate shifting consumers' preferences toward safety and comfort upgrades. The rising integration of some common ADAS features in budget to mid-price segment cars is propelling the automotive cameras market in the Asia Pacific region. Alternatively, North America and Europe have a comparatively higher deployment rate owing to the strong presence of premium automakers & tier-1 suppliers, and their continuous investments in testing various automation functionalities support the adoption of advanced camera systems in these regions.

Download an Illustrative overview: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=125124333

Browse in-depth TOC on "Automotive Camera Market"

398 - Tables

97 - Figures

166 - Pages

The passenger car segment will account for the largest share of the global automotive camera market.

The passenger car segment will dominate the global automotive camera market, projected to hold ~ 85% of the market share by 2032. In terms of market sizing, Asia Pacific dominates the global market, with China, India, and Japan holding a significant share of the automotive camera demand. These countries have a balanced mix of economy as well as mid-range vehicles, with a strong leap for the premium category, driven by regional economic growth and rising disposable wealth. Regional original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) such as Toyota, Honda, Hyundai-Kia, Suzuki, and Mitsubishi are providing essential Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features. These include adaptive cruise control (ACC), lane departure warning (LDW), blind spot detection (BSD), and rearview cameras for parking assistance with guiding lines. These features are available in both top trims of economical and mid-range vehicles, as well as in luxury cars. These features have been integrated into these car models with a focus on making these technologies more accessible to a broad customer base in the Asian region and differentiating them from the competitive environment.

Further, strict regulatory norms such as the European Union (EU) mandated features like Lane Departure Warning (LDW) systems & AEB effective from July 2022 in all light-duty vehicles are driving the adoption of automotive cameras. Regional premium manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, JLR, and Audi offer advanced ADAS options, such as intelligent parking assist and 360-degree camera systems in the majority of their models. North American OEMs such as Ford, General Motors, and Tesla, along with foreign players like Toyota, Honda (Acura), and Stellantis Group, are at the forefront of integrating features like lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and driver monitoring systems into their vehicles. As the technologies are gaining more adoption rate and reaching mass volume, the associated technology, components, and software are more affordable, leading to their accessibility to larger vehicle demand and thereby accelerating the market growth of automotive cameras, particularly in the passenger car segment.

The thermal camera segment will register the fastest growth using technology during the forecast period.

Thermal cameras, which are mostly installed in night vision systems, are projected to grow at the highest CAGR under the review period. Thermal cameras are primarily used for this application mainly due to their benefit of detecting heat emitted by objects, enabling visibility in complete darkness and through challenging weather conditions such as fog, rain, and snow. Due to this, it is essential for pedestrian detection during darkness or low/negligible light conditions. The rising demand for premium vehicles (Class D & above), comprising sedans, pick-up trucks, and vans, would prompt the adoption of the night vision system market at a promising rate. For instance, in China and Japan, the share of Class D & above passenger vehicle production stood at ~45% and ~33%, respectively, in 2024. These vehicles are likely to have a faster acceptance rate in the coming years.

Similarly, Europeans and North Americans have a preference for high-end vehicles with several comfort and safety elements. Night vision cameras are primarily installed in luxury vehicles and have limited adoption by a few OEMs from Europe, North America, and Asia Pacific, owing to their higher cost and complexity. However, due to their safety benefits, they are likely to become more common in mid-segment passenger vehicles across key countries by the end of the forecast period. In addition, strategic collaboration between Valeo (France) and Teledyne FLIR LLC (US) highlights the development of thermal camera technology. Thermal Master launched Thermal Master NV300 MAX, an advanced dual-spectrum thermal imaging night vision system for vehicles, in October 2024 in the US. This technology is aimed at improving pedestrian detection while driving, especially in low-visibility conditions. As OEMs pay more attention to the safety and development of new technology, thermal cameras are expected to grow rapidly in the automotive camera market.

North America is projected to be the second-largest region in the automotive camera market.

North America is likely to become the second-largest market for automotive cameras due to the increasing need for advanced driver assistance systems and safety features. Full-size SUVs like the Ford Expedition and Chevrolet Suburban have experienced significant year-over-year sales, pointing toward the increasing consumer demand for large vehicles with safety and comfort features. The US government initiatives, such as those from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), are significantly influencing the demand for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Features like lane departure warning (LDW) and blind spot detection (BSD) for passenger vehicles, light commercial vehicles (LCVs), and heavy commercial vehicles (HCVs) are expected to drive the demand for automotive cameras across the region. Regional OEMs, such as Ford, Tesla, and General Motors, support the automotive camera market in the US since they are currently introducing camera-based semi-autonomous driving systems in their vehicles. For instance, Ford Motors (US) 2024 Mustang comes equipped with adaptive cruise control, blind spot assist, lane keeping system with lane keeping alert, and more. Such innovations point towards the increasing adoption of ADAS features, which rely significantly on automotive cameras. US consumers also know about safety and comfort features that will drive the uptake of ADAS features with automotive cameras.

Key Market Automotive Camera Industry:

Prominent players in the Automotive Camera Companies include as Robert Bosch GmbH (Germany), Continental AG (Germany), Valeo (France), ZF Friedrichshafen AG (Germany), and Denso Corporation (Japan), and Ficosa International SA (Spain), among others.

Get 10% Free Customization on this Report: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestCustomizationNew.asp?id=125124333

This report provides insights on:

Analysis of key drivers (Increasing consumer demand for ADAS in vehicles, government initiatives for improved vehicle safety, advancements in camera technology), restraints (Impact of adverse weather conditions, lack of infrastructure in emerging economies), opportunities (Growing push for autonomous vehicles, surge in demand for premium vehicles), and challenges (Low adoption and high cost of newer technologies, integration with other vehicle sensors) influencing the growth of the automotive camera market.

(Increasing consumer demand for ADAS in vehicles, government initiatives for improved vehicle safety, advancements in camera technology), restraints (Impact of adverse weather conditions, lack of infrastructure in emerging economies), opportunities (Growing push for autonomous vehicles, surge in demand for premium vehicles), and challenges (Low adoption and high cost of newer technologies, integration with other vehicle sensors) influencing the growth of the automotive camera market. Product Development/Innovation: Detailed insights into upcoming technologies, research & development activities, and new product & service launches in the automotive camera market.

Detailed insights into upcoming technologies, research & development activities, and new product & service launches in the automotive camera market. Market Development: Comprehensive information about lucrative markets - the report analyzes the automotive camera market across varied regions.

Comprehensive information about lucrative markets - the report analyzes the automotive camera market across varied regions. Market Diversification: Exhaustive information about new products & services, untapped geographies, recent developments, and investments in the automotive camera market.

Exhaustive information about new products & services, untapped geographies, recent developments, and investments in the automotive camera market. Competitive Assessment: In-depth assessment of market shares, growth strategies, and service offerings of leading players like Robert Bosch GmbH (Germany), Continental AG (Germany), Valeo (France), ZF Friedrichshafen AG (Germany), Denso Corporation (Japan), and Ficosa International SA (Spain) among others in the automotive camera market.

In-depth assessment of market shares, growth strategies, and service offerings of leading players like Robert Bosch GmbH (Germany), Continental AG (Germany), Valeo (France), ZF Friedrichshafen AG (Germany), Denso Corporation (Japan), and Ficosa International SA (Spain) among others in the automotive camera market. Strategies: The report also helps stakeholders understand the pulse of the automotive camera market and provides them with information on key market drivers, restraints, challenges, and opportunities.

Related Reports:

Self-driving Cars Market

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Market

Automotive LiDAR Market

Get access to the latest updates on Automotive Camera Companies and Automotive Camera Industry Growth

About MarketsandMarkets:

MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's Best Management Consulting Firms by Forbes, as per their recent report.

MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. With the widest lens on emerging technologies, we are proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients across the globe.

Today, 80% of Fortune 2000 companies rely on MarketsandMarkets, and 90 of the top 100 companies in each sector trust us to accelerate their revenue growth. With a global clientele of over 13,000 organizations, we help businesses thrive in a disruptive ecosystem.

The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion in new revenue streams that are replacing existing ones within this decade. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing.

Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we collaborate with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies to keep them future-ready. Our insights and strategies are powered by industry experts, cutting-edge AI, and our Market Intelligence Cloud, KnowledgeStore, which integrates research and provides ecosystem-wide visibility into revenue shifts.

To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook .

Contact:

Mr. Rohan Salgarkar

MarketsandMarkets INC.

1615 South Congress Ave.

Suite 103, Delray Beach, FL 33445

USA: +1-888-600-6441

Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com

Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1868219/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/automotive-camera-market-worth-15-34-billion-by-2032--marketsandmarkets-302448239.html
100% UK-US Owned Only. No Other Outside Investment.

TAIPEI, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- TutorABC is a fully foreign-owned education technology company, backed exclusively by investors from the United Kingdom and the United States only.

Since 2022, TutorABC has been 100% owned and governed by a UK-US investment consortium led by:

Rodney Miles - a British business leader with a 50+ year legacy in global retail, e-commerce, and education.

- a British business leader with a 50+ year legacy in global retail, e-commerce, and education. SamuelYang, CFA - an American-born, British-educated investment banker, and international education leader.

This ownership structure has been independently verified by a leading international law firm and is fully compliant with all local (and international) legal and regulatory requirements.

*Start 7 Days Free Trial: https://www.tutorabc.com/count.asp?code=O87MXjKGDD

Global Leadership with Proven Track Records

Rodney Miles is the current co-chairman of TutorABC and is a pioneering entrepreneur with over five decades of global retail and e-commerce leadership. He is best known for driving the explosive growth of Watsons, Asia's leading health and beauty retailer. He began with just 8 stores and was responsible for laying the foundation that grew the brand into a global giant with over 15,000 stores-including opening Watsons' first store in Taiwan on Chung Hsiao East Road in the 1980s.

He later founded and built StrawberryNet, one of the world's first global online retailers of beauty and fragrance products. As a pioneer in cross-border online retail, he served millions of customers across more than 200 countries, offering over 30,000 SKUs from 800 global brands including Chanel, Christian Dior, Clinique, Estee Lauder, La Mer, La Prairie, Lancome, L'Oreal, SK-II, Yves Saint Laurent (YSL), and many others.

Rodney's career began at Sainsbury's, one of the UK's largest supermarket chains, under the mentorship of Chairman John Sainsbury (later Lord Sainsbury of Preston Candover), where he developed a lifelong commitment to operational excellence, customer service, and strategic innovation.

Samuel Yang, CFA, is a seasoned investment banker and educator with over 25 years of experience. At MorganStanley and MerrillLynch he previously managed over USD 3 billion and specialized in venture capital, pre-IPO, and IPO investments. Additionally for over 20 years he has served as the chief representative in Taiwan for Kaplan, one of the world's largest education companies listed on the NYSE.

He was educated at Cambridge University for a Master's degree in Entrepreneurship, and City University of London for a degree in Investment and Financial Risk Management. He is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and was an instructor for all three levels of the CFA exams, and was the lead trainer for the analyst training programs at Merrill Lynch, Credit Suisse, and Julius Baer. He is also a certified Franklin Covey trainer, specializing in the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, and has used his expertise to develop and mentor young leaders globally - reaching over 160 partner high-schools in more than 30 countries across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

As Co-Chairman and CEO of TutorABC, Samuel drives the company's global mission to deliver a "first-class education, in a first-class way, with first-class people." Samuel also leads The Yang Foundation, supporting education and cultural exchange programs across the world, and serves as Chairman of the British Chamber of Commerce in Taipei, and Chairman of the YPO East West Chapter.

*Start 7 Days Free Trial: https://www.tutorabc.com/count.asp?code=O87MXjKGDD

Global Reach. Elite Partnerships.

TutorABC is not affiliated with any other country-directly or indirectly. Its governance, capital, and operations are 100% UK and US only.

It proudly partners with the world's leading institutions:

Oxford and Cambridge universities

National Geographic, Kaplan, Barron's, ETS, British Council

400+ study abroad partners at universities throughout the UK, USA, and Canada

It serves students and teachers in over 100 countries. It provides advanced corporate training programs for many Fortune 500 and other world-leading companies including Apple, Google, Microsoft, Citibank, Prudential Life, PwC, Deloitte, New Balance, Amazon, TSMC, MediaTek, Micron, Toyota, Shiseido, Yamaha, and many others.

*Learn more TutorABC Corporate Training Service: https://www.tutorabc.com/count.asp?code=IIFb8LAKZr

Certified Safe. Trusted by Families.

TutorABC is kidSAFE-certified and implements child privacy practices consistent with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission's Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), maintaining high standards for child protection and cybersecurity.

TutorABC has a dedicated team of over 400 professionals-including education advisors, learning consultants, engineers, and customer service representatives-providing personalized support to every student.

Mission Statement

TutorABC is committed to delivering a first-class education, in a first-class way, with first-class people.

6 Reasons Why TutorABC Leads the World in Online Language Learning:

Best Teachers - native English speakers, Cambridge-trained, handpicking the top 3%. Best Materials - premium content from Oxford, Cambridge, Nat Geo, and global leaders. Best Curriculum - a 4-step adaptive path tailored by level, industry, goals, and interests. Best Technology - AI-powered platform with 24/7 access and 19 patented innovations. Best Customer Service - 200+ real human advisors-no chatbots-expert support. Best Ratings - 97% satisfaction, 4.8 on Google, and 4.7 on Trustpilot.

*Start 7 Days Free Trial: https://www.tutorabc.com/count.asp?code=O87MXjKGDD

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2681412/TutorABC_CFA_CEO_Co_Chairman.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2681413/TutorABC_Co_Chairman_Rodney_Miles.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2681414/TutorABC_senior_management_team.jpg

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/inside-tutorabc-the-100-uk-us-edtech-giant-led-by-rodney-miles-and-samuel-yang-revolutionizing-language-learning-for-100-million-users-302448502.html
MUNICH, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- INNOX ENERGY, a global innovator specializing in power electronics and digital energy technologies, presented its cutting-edge liquid-cooled energy storage systems and modular scalability solutions at The smarter E Europe 2025, held from May 7-9 at Messe Munchen. Aligned with the event's theme of "Accelerating Integrated Energy Solutions", the company highlighted technologies designed to address industrial energy challenges and accelerate decarbonization efforts.

Liquid-Cooled Systems for High-Performance Applications

InnoX Energy's fully liquid-cooled energy storage solution integrated liquid-cooled battery packs and power conversion systems (PCS), delivering superior heat dissipation to sustain 1C rate charging/discharging-critical for environments with impact loads such as factories and construction sites. The system's embedded high-frequency transformer eliminated the need for external isolation transformers, reducing costs and spatial demands. It also supported hybrid energy inputs, including diesel generators, solar arrays, and EV charging infrastructure, bridging energy gaps in off-grid or harsh conditions while optimizing diesel efficiency.

All-In-One Efficiency: Compact, Safe, and Intelligent Design

InnoX Energy's all-in-one liquid-cooled energy storage system combined power distribution, conversion, battery management, EMS, thermal control, and fire safety into a single compact unit. Featuring a four-tier fire protection system and third-generation silicon carbide (SiC) technology, the solution achieved 1-2% higher energy efficiency than conventional systems. Tailored for C&I parks, EV charging stations, and distributed solar plants, it prioritized safety and space efficiency without compromising performance.

Modular Solutions for Scalable Energy Resilience

InnoX Energy's modular energy storage system demonstrated flexible configurations for microgrids and C&I applications. By combining customizable power and battery cabinets, the system scaled seamlessly to MW-level capacity, integrating solar arrays and charging infrastructure as needed. It supported peak shaving, emergency backup, and dynamic grid interaction, offering factories, commercial complexes, and remote sites a balance between energy cost optimization and reliability. Through modular design and flexible configuration, the solutions address diverse needs such as peak shaving, backup power supply, and renewable energy integration, helping customers optimize energy costs and transition to low-carbon operations.

Event Participation Recap

"Our solutions are built to accelerate the transition to 24/7 renewable energy," the spokesperson added. "By merging liquid-cooled innovation with modular intelligence, we empower industries to cut costs, enhance resilience, and meet sustainability targets."

Visitors can explore its innovations at B1.590, focusing on industrial energy resilience, renewable integration, and intelligent storage technologies.

For more information, please visit http://www.innoxenergy.com

CONTACT: Xu Qi, qi.xu@infypower.cn

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2681360/image.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/innox-energy-showcased-integrated-energy-solutions-at-the-smarter-e-europe-2025-302448508.html
Key roles in intelligence and Atlantic security

Sir Winston Churchill, 1942:

Bermuda has "cause to be proud that it has fallen to your lot to make this important contribution to a better world"

HAMILTON, Bermuda and LONDON, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Bermuda will be represented and celebrating Victory in Europe Day, May 8th, and its role in the Second World War. This will include official attendance to a Service of Thanksgiving on the 80th anniversary of VE Day at Westminster Abbey and at Horse Guards Parade with a dedicated online display of Bermuda's contribution to the Second World War. https://bdalondonoffice.co.uk/bermudas-contribution-to-the-second-world-war/

From its strategic West mid-Atlantic location, Bermuda played a key role in World War 2, particularly in intelligence and as a key base for the Battle of the Atlantic, both of which Winston Churchill identified as at the heart of allied victory.

544 Bermudians volunteered for war service overseas with 35 dead, including pilots such as Grant Ede who was killed in the Battle of Britain. The island also raised funding for four Spitfires over the war by public subscription in the amount of 21,891 (approximated worth 1.4 million today).

Bermuda's strategic location made it a critical base for allied operations. The Royal Naval Dockyard was used in anti-submarine training and ship repairs while also maintaining vital supply lines across the Atlantic. The Bermuda flying school on Darrell's Islands trained 80 pilots for the RAF and Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). In 1940, the island became an 'unsinkable aircraft carrier' when Winston Churchill and US President Franklin D Roosevelt signed a deal allowing the US to build a US airbase in St David's, as well later as naval and submarine station at Ordnance Island.

As a key way-station between the US and UK, the island also became the hub of a massive intelligence and mail interception operation. The Imperial Censorship Station, located in the basement of the Hamilton Princess Hotel was operated by over 1,000 personnel including British intelligence officers, codebreakers and academics. Many of the censors were young women who were known as the 'Censorettes'. The station's efforts led to the capture of over 40 German spies, and its most significant achievement was helping dismantle the largest German spy ring in the US which was led by Kurt Freerick Ludwig.

In 1944, the US Navy secretly towed the captured German submarine U-505, along with 57 prisoners, maintaining a fiction it had been sunk to protect the integrity of its codebooks which were then used by the station in Bermuda. The submarine is now the only extant intact U boat sitting in the Museum of Chicago.

The Hon David E Burt, Premier of Bermuda, comments: "Bermuda's contribution to the war effort was significant, and we rightly celebrate, along with our Commonwealth peers across the world the service of those women and men whose personal sacrifice continues to inspire us even today."

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1915215/Government_of_Bermuda_Logo.jpg

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bermuda-celebrates-contribution-to-victory-in-europe-302448509.html
THE status symbol of spring, cute keychain monsters affectionately known as Labubus have taken the world by storm.

Keychain Monsters

Fairy tale and Nordic mythology inspired soft toys, these creatures were first born as sketches back in 2015 to Hong kong-born, Netherlands raised artist Kasing Lung; now sold exclusively by Chinese toy brand Pop Mart.

Sold in blind boxes only contributing to the hype, people have been seen queuing for hours outside any and all shop branches just trying to get their hands on one - often to no avail however, with stocks online selling out in mere seconds.

Described by many as being like carrying round a little piece of your childhood, even Hollywood are getting involved with celebrities including Rhinanna and Dua Lipa having been pictured with the gremlins swinging from their bags.

With six standard coloured figures plus a series special in each bundle to collect, Labubus have had three main waves so far: Macaron, Have a Seat and Big Energy.

The perfect fun accompaniment to any bag; pop-culture brands and creators have even gone as far as to introduce Labubu clothing, accessory and furniture lines for the ultimate on-the-go personality statement.

Collector markets notoriously known for astronomical resell prices, Labubus are no exception, with the 13 + pointy-ear pals already boasting an asking price of up to two times as much as RRP on sites like Ebay and Vinted.

Predecessor to similar trends like Jellycats, Beanie Babies, Carebears and even Build-a-bears, its expected the hype will eventually wear off, but not without headlines. Catching the attention of reproducers and thieves alike, the dolls themselves aren't they only things blowing up our feeds, with thousands of consumers flooding platforms Tik Tok, Instagram and X to educate on the Labubus fake siblings Lafufus, and warn they shouldn't be left unsupervised.

by Katie Ransome Female First
TEL AVIV, Israel, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (NYSE and TASE: TEVA) announced today that it will host Innovation & Strategy Day on Thursday, May 29, 2025 to discuss the acceleration phase of its strategy and portfolio priorities. The event will take place in New York, N.Y. Presentations will begin at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time and are expected to conclude at 12:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

Richard Francis, Teva's President and CEO, along with other members of the executive management team will discuss an update on the strategy and key priorities focusing on growth and innovation.

Due to limited capacity, in-person attendance is by invitation only. Analysts and institutional investors will be invited to pre-register and attend through an invite that will is distributed separately.

For questions regarding the event, please contact Teva's Investor Relations team at TevaIR@Tevapharm.com.

A live webcast of the event and presentation materials will be available on Teva's Investor Relations website at: https://ir.tevapharm.com/Events-and-Presentations.

An archived version of the webcast will be available within 24 hours after the end of the live discussion.

About Teva

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd..

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release and the conference call may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are based on management's current beliefs and expectations and are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties, both known and unknown, that could cause our future results, performance or achievements to differ significantly from that expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include risks relating to: our ability to successfully compete in the marketplace including our ability to successfully execute our Pivot to Growth strategy; our significant indebtedness; our business and operations in general; compliance, regulatory and litigation matters; other financial and economic risks; and other factors discussed in this press release, in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, including in the sections captioned "Risk Factors" and "Forward-looking Statements." Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we assume no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements or other information contained herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. You are cautioned not to put undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.
NORTHVILLE, Mich., May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Systems Protection, a Tenneco Performance Solutions business, has received the Best Supplier Award from Airbus, marking the second time the business has been recognized as the top partner supplier by one of the world's largest providers of commercial aircraft, helicopters, defense aircraft and systems, aerospace technologies, and other products. Systems Protection supplies Airbus with a broad range of innovative products that offer effective thermal, mechanical, electro-magnetic and environmental protection in aircraft wings, fuselages, pylons, doors, jet engines, galleys, seats, and other locations.

"Within AIRBUS Group, we manage civil aircraft and defense applications where customer requirements are very different. Our strength is our ability to innovate and be proactive about giving the right answer to the right people," said Talal Kakish, Vice President and General Manager, Systems Protection, Tenneco. "We are proud to be part of Airbus' journey in shaping the future of aviation. This award celebrates our achievements and motivates us to continue to strive for excellence in everything we do."

Systems Protection is the world's foremost supplier of protective sleeving and shielding solutions for wires, hoses, and mechanical assemblies. In addition to aerospace, the company serves original equipment manufacturers and tier suppliers in the automotive, railway, and energy, industrial and transport markets. Headquartered in Exton, Pennsylvania, USA, Systems Protection operates sales, manufacturing, and innovation centers in the Americas, Europe and Asia. The company is the manufacturer of Bentley-Harris protection products.

For more information visit: www.systemsprotection.com.

About Tenneco

Tenneco is one of the world's leading designers, manufacturers, and marketers of automotive products for original equipment and aftermarket customers. Through our DRiV, Performance Solutions, Clean Air, Powertrain and Ignition business groups, Tenneco is driving advancements in global mobility by delivering technology solutions for light vehicle, commercial truck, off-highway, industrial, motorsport, and the aftermarket.

Visit www.tenneco.comto learn more.

CONTACT:

Simonetta Esposito

Global Communications

Tenneco

Sesposito@driv.com
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Magma Silver Corp. (TSXV: MGMA) (FSE: BC2) (WKN: A3DEJG) ("Magma" or the "Company"), is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Townsend to its Board of Directors effective May 7, 2025.

Michael Townsend has extensive experience in corporate finance spanning over 25 years. Mr. Townsend is one of the founding partners of Altus Capital Partners, a boutique investment bank based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Altus has been involved in raising over $180 million in equity financings over the past 5 years.

The Company announced the resignation of Joe Sandberg as a director effective May 7, 2025.

Stephen Barley, Executive Chairman and Interim CEO of Magma, stated: "We are excited to announce the appointment of Michael Townsend. Mr. Townsend has a strong corporate finance background, knowledge of the capital markets, and success in raising capital. We wish to thank Joe Sandberg for his years of service and contribution to the board of directors and wish him well on his retirement."

Stock Options

Further to the news release dated May 6, 2025, the Company also announces an increase in the stock option grant from 1,000,000 options to 1,500,000 incentive stock options (the "Options") to certain directors, officers, consultants, and employees pursuant to the Company's Stock Option Plan. The Options exercise price has been amended from $0.155 to $0.16 and are exercisable for a period of five years.

About Magma Silver Corp.

Magma Silver Corp. is a natural resource company with a focus on the acquisition, exploration, development, and operation of precious metal mining exploration projects. The Company's primary focus will be on exploring and developing the advanced Ninobamba silver gold project in the mining supportive country of Peru.

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This news release contains certain statements that may constitute forward-looking information under applicable securities laws. All statements, other than those of historical fact, which address activities, events, outcomes, results, developments, performance or achievements that Magma anticipates or expects may or will occur in the future (in whole or in part) should be considered forward-looking information. Often, but not always, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or statements formed in the future tense or indicating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" (or other variations of the forgoing) be taken, occur, be achieved, or come to pass. Forward-looking information is based on currently available competitive, financial, and economic data and operating plans, strategies or beliefs as of the date of this news release, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Magma to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors may be based on information currently available to Magma, including information obtained from third-party industry analysts and other third-party sources, and are based on management's current expectations or beliefs regarding future growth, results of operations, future capital (including the amount, nature and sources of funding thereof) and expenditures. Any and all forward-looking information contained in this press release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Trading in the securities of Magma should be considered highly speculative.

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.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251058

SOURCE: Magma Silver Corp.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Myriad Uranium Corp. (CSE: M) (OTCQB: MYRUF) (FSE: C3Q) ("Myriad" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has staked additional ground at its Red Basin Uranium Project in Catron County, New Mexico, USA (the "Project"). The 77 newly-registered claims increase total acreage from approximately 1,753 acres (709 hectares) to approximately 3,324 acres (1,345 hectares). To the best of management's knowledge, the Company now holds acreage covering the vast majority of known historical drilling (more than 1,050 holes) and all identified historical uranium resources in the district (0.5 Mlbs Indicated, 1.5 to 6.5 Mlbs Inferred) (not NI 43-101 compliant). Please refer to our February 4, 2025 press release for more details.

Highlights

Myriad has nearly doubled its acreage along New Mexico's Red Basin trend in the Datil Mountains - Pietown Uranium District.

To the best of management's knowledge, the Company now holds acreage covering the vast majority of known historical drilling (more than 1,050 holes) and all identified historical uranium resources in the district (0.5 Mlbs Indicated, 1.5 to 6.5 Mlbs Inferred).

The Company's claims contain extensive uranium-vanadium mineralisation which is near surface at grades of 0.17% - 0.31% U 3 O 8 and up to 1.64% V 2 O 5 .

Historical estimates include Indicated resources of 0.5 Mlbs U 3 O 8 and additional inferred resources of 1.5 - 6.5 Mlbs U 3 O 8 , as estimated by Rio Grande Resources Corporation in 2012 (not NI 43-101 compliant).

The mineralisation is hosted in thick sections of roll-front deposits hosted in permeable sandstones from surface to depths of less than 450 feet.

Existing claims offer significant resource expansion potential, and the newly-acquired claims are considered highly prospective.

The shallow roll front mineralisation suggests there may be numerous extraction options that could be economic, including in-situ recovery.

The Company is leveraging the expertise of advisors with in-depth understanding of past exploration and drilling at Red Basin.

The broader Datil Mountains - Pietown area is estimated to contain as much as 30 - 45 Mlbs of uranium mineralisation (Chamberlin, 1981, Open-File Report No. 138, New Mexico Bureau of Mines and Mineral Resources) with much of it potentially amenable to in-situ recovery.

The Red Basin District has excellent access and infrastructure, and New Mexico has a rich history of exploration, development and mining. A number of prominent uranium companies are currently investing heavily in the state.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on historical resource estimates as an indicator of current mineral resources or mineral reserves.

Thomas Lamb, Myriad's CEO, commented, "Our acquisition of a significant high grade historical resource at Red Basin was in itself a coup. Now, the narrative is evolving with an exciting new phase of growth. Instead of simply expanding around our current claims, we are leveraging the expertise of local geologists with first-hand experience in the 1970s and 1980s drilling programs. Importantly, details of this historic drilling are not public knowledge, and our direct access to individuals involved provides us with a distinct advantage and a compelling opportunity as we pursue significant resource expansion and new discoveries."

The Company's lead consulting geologist, George van der Walt, stated, "These claims occupy ground along the trend of the highly prospective Baca Formation in the Red Basin, where known deposits contain high-grade mineralisation up to 0.31% U3O8 and 1.64% V2O5. The expansion of claims will increase the potential for new discoveries in an area of very little previous mining development but which we believe is highly prospective for uranium and vanadium."

Claim Details and Historic Drilling

The claims cover key areas along the highly prospective Red Basin trend, which are located within the Pietown-Datil Mountains uranium-vanadium district, approximately 140 km (87 mi) south-west of Albuquerque, New Mexico. The original Phase I and Phase II claims comprise 85 lode claims in Datil Mountains - Pietown Uranium District, covering approximately 1,753 acres (709 hectares). The new (Phase III) claim areas staked to the east comprise a further 77 claims covering approximately 1,571 acres (636 hectares), bringing the total claims to approximately 3,324 acres (1,345 hectares).

Gulf Oil Corporation drilled more than 1,000 holes in the Red Basin trend in the late 1960s through the early 1980s. The positions of 612 of these holes have been located within the original claim areas. Occidental Petroleum Corporation ("OPC") held ground in the new claim areas and drilled at least 26 holes, 18 on the western claims along a north-northeast to south-southwest trend that could represent a palaeo-channel, and 8 on the eastern claims in a small cluster along an east-west trend. The drill logs of the OPC drilling are not currently available to Myriad, but the positions are known from old field notes as indicated on the map below (Figure 1), and local advisors are providing the Company with other highly useful insights regarding the drilling.





Figure 1 Location of the Red Basin Project staking

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6301/251062_938e6a547468a954_002full.jpg

Geology and Mineralisation

Exploration and minor production in the Red Basin district began in the 1950s with an unknown entity producing 1,194 pounds of U3O8 from ore with an average grade of 0.17% U3O8 (McLemore & Chenoweth, 2017). No production is known to have occurred within the Project area itself. Gulf Oil and Occidental Petroleum drilled more than 1,050 holes in the Red Basin Project area in the late 1960s through the early 1980s, most of which are located on the current claim areas.

Mineralisation is hosted as roll-front deposits within permeable sandstones of the Crevasse Canyon Formation and pre-Baca Formation paleosols. Historical drilling on the Project has delineated a thick section of roll-front type uranium-vanadium mineralisation cropping out on the surface to approximately 450 feet down dip. The meandering uranium-vanadium bearing sandstones can be more than a mile in length and 600 or more feet wide. The host formations are amenable to open pit or underground mining and possibly in-situ leaching.

A 1980 assessment of uranium resources in the Colorado Plateau physiographic province (U.S. Department of Energy, 1980) estimated the Red Basin Project contains approximately 1.6 million pounds U3O8 at an average grade of 0.31% U3O8. In 2012, Rio Grande Resources commenced a geologic evaluation of the drill hole gamma ray electric logs. Stratigraphic cross-sections were constructed, two separate roll-fronts were mapped, and a resource estimate made. Using a grade times thickness (GT) cutoff of 0.25 and grade cutoff of 0.02%, in-place resources of 500,000 pounds and an inferred resource between 1.5 - 6.5 million pounds U3O8 was estimated (RGR, 2012). Readers are cautioned that historical resource estimates should not be relied upon to judge the quality of exploration potential of the Red Basin Project.

An Open-File report (No. 138) produced by the New Mexico Bureau of Mines and Minerals (Chamberlin, 1981) indicates that the Red Basin area contains as much as 30 - 45 million pounds of U3O8. In addition, the deposits could contain significant amounts of associated vanadium, up to 1.64% V2O5, as reported by Bachman et al. (1957).

Historical Estimates

While Myriad Uranium has determined that the historical estimates described in this news release are relevant to the Red Basin Project area and are reasonably reliable given the authors and circumstances of their preparation, and are suitable for public disclosure, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these historical estimates as an indicator of current mineral resources or mineral reserves at the Project area. A qualified person (as defined under NI 43-101) has not done sufficient work to classify any of the historical estimates as current mineral resources or mineral reserves, and Myriad Uranium is not treating the historical estimates as a current mineral resource or mineral reserve. Also, while the Red Basin claims contain all or most of each deposit referred to, some of the resources may be located outside the current Red Basin Project area. Furthermore, the estimates are decades old and based on drilling data for which the logs are, as of yet, predominantly unavailable. The historical resource estimates, therefore, should not be unduly relied upon.

From Myriad Uranium's viewpoint, limitations include that the Company has not been able to verify or validate historical data. To verify the historical estimates and potentially re-state them as current resources, a program of digitization of available data would be required. This must be followed by re-logging and/or re-drilling to generate new data to the extent necessary that it is comparable with the original data, or new data that can be used to establish the correlation and continuity of geology and grades between boreholes with sufficient confidence to estimate mineral resources.

Qualified Person

The scientific or technical information in this news release respecting the Company's Red Basin Project has been approved by George van der Walt, MSc., Pr.Sci.Nat., FGSSA, a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Mr. van der Walt is employed by The MSA Group (Pty) Ltd. (MSA), a leading geological consultancy providing services to the minerals industry, based in Johannesburg, South Africa. He has more than 20 years industry experience and sufficient relevant experience in the type and style of mineralisation to report on exploration results.

The information and interpretations thereof are based on the Qualified Person's initial review of historical reports, which were recently obtained by the Company. The information did not include original data such as drilling records, sampling, analytical or test data underlying the information or opinions contained in the written documents. Therefore, the Qualified Person has not reviewed or otherwise verified the information and has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimates as current mineral resources or mineral reserves. The Qualified Person considers the information to be relevant based on the amount and quality of work undertaken and reported historically. A more thorough review of any available original data will be undertaken and reported on in more detail in future releases.

About Myriad Uranium Corp.

Myriad Uranium Corp. is a uranium exploration company with an earnable 75% interest in the Copper Mountain Uranium Project in Wyoming, USA. Copper Mountain hosts several known uranium deposits and historic uranium mines, including the Arrowhead Mine which produced 500,000 lbs of e U3O8. Copper Mountain saw extensive drilling and development by Union Pacific during the late 1970s including the development of a mine plan to fuel a planned fleet of California Edison reactors. Operations ceased in 1980 before mining could commence due to falling uranium prices. Approximately 2,000 boreholes have been drilled at Copper Mountain and the Project Area has significant exploration upside. Union Pacific is estimated to have spent C$117 million (2024 dollars) exploring and developing Copper Mountain, generating significant historical resource estimates which are detailed here. The Company also recently acquired, subject to completing a geophysical survey this year, a 100% interest in the Red Basin Uranium Project in New Mexico, which has a near-surface historical resource (non-NI 43-101) of 0.5 Mlbs indicated and 1.5 to 6.5 Mlbs inferred at grades from 1,700 to 3,100 ppm, with significant upside potential. The announcement can be viewed here. Our Crux Investor overview page including recent interviews can be viewed here. The Company's presentation can be viewed here. News releases regarding historical drilling can be viewed here and here.

Myriad also has a 50% interest in the Millen Mountain Property in Nova Scotia, Canada, with the other 50% held by Probe Gold Inc. For further information, please refer to Myriad's disclosure record on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca), contact Myriad by telephone at +1.604.418.2877, or refer to Myriad's website at www.myriaduranium.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking information" that is based on the Company's current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections. This forward-looking information includes, among other things, the Company's business, plans, outlook and business strategy. The words "may", "would", "could", "should", "will", "likely", "expect," "anticipate," "intend", "estimate", "plan", "forecast", "project" and "believe" or other similar words and phrases are intended to identify forward-looking information. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect, including with respect to the Company's business plans respecting the exploration and development of the Company's mineral properties, the proposed work program on the Company's mineral properties and the potential and economic viability of the Company's mineral properties. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, but are not limited to: changes in economic conditions or financial markets; increases in costs; litigation; legislative, environmental and other judicial, regulatory, political and competitive developments; access to minerals where the surface rights above them have not been settled; and technological or operational difficulties. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect our forward-looking information. These and other factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on such forward-looking information. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

The CSE has not reviewed, approved or disapproved the contents of this news release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251062

SOURCE: Myriad Uranium Corp.
Vancouver, Canada--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Turnium Technology Group Inc. (TSXV: TTGI) (FSE: E48) ("Turnium" or "the Company"), a global leader in Technology-as-a-Service (TaaS), is pleased to announce the signing of a new contract with Seafarer Connect valued at C$77,000 over 24 months for its innovative CrewMate Lite services.

This agreement expands on the established partnership between Turnium's subsidiary, Claratti, and Seafarer Connect, further enhancing connectivity solutions for international seafarers. The CrewMate Lite is Claratti's 3rd Generation portable Internet device, which weighs in at just over 3.5 kgs. The CrewMate Lite can be transported by backpack or mounted to the wall of a ship and delivers the same high performance Internet access as our generation 1 and 2 devices at a 1/3rd the weight.

"The Seafarer Connect project is dependent on reliable, fast and remotely managed mobile network equipment which must remain operational in some of the harshest conditions aboard ships and in ports throughout Australia. We are confident that the vital service we provide to some of the most vulnerable workers in the global supply chain is operating effectively at all times through the partnership we have with Claratti," said Robert Coombs, Managing Director of the Tas Bull Seafarers Foundation.

Doug Childress, Global Chief Executive Officer of Turnium Technology Group, added, "Our mission is to develop IT and communication solutions that solve complex business problems, which was definitely the case when we began our journey with Seafarer Connect. To see them achieve their mission of providing vital connectivity to crews at Australian ports since 2022 has been nothing short of amazing. The CrewMate Lite services will allow us to offer more flexible and cost-effective connectivity options, enabling Seafarer Connect to reach even more vessels and crew members who desperately need these essential communication links."

Since the beginning of the partnership, the positive effects on seafarer welfare have been substantial. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when isolation at sea reached critical levels, the connectivity provided through this initiative played a crucial role in maintaining crew mental health and preventing tragic outcomes.





Images provided by Claratti, a subsidiary of Turnium Technology Group Inc.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8546/251102_claratti1en.jpg

About Seafarer Connect

Seafarer Connect, part of the Tas Bull Seafarers Foundation, is a not-for-profit initiative dedicated to delivering free, high-quality Wi-Fi to international seafarers visiting Australian ports. It helps to address the humanitarian crisis of isolation at sea and promote crew welfare.

For more information, please visit https://www.seafarerconnect.com.au/.

About Turnium Technology Group Inc.: "Let's get IT done."

Turnium Technology Group Inc. (TTGI) acquires companies that complement its Technology-as-a-Service (TaaS) strategy, integrates them to generate efficiencies, and delivers their solutions through a global channel partner program to customers worldwide. TTGI's mission is to provide IT providers with a complete, white-labelled portfolio of business technology solutions, enabling them to quickly add new services in response to customer demand.

In essence, Turnium is building a TaaS platform that incorporates all the services, platforms, and capabilities that ISPs, MSPs, IT Providers, VoIP/UCaaS, CCaaS, or Cloud Providers might need. Additionally, Turnium provides deployment resources, hardware, delivery, support, and marketing and sales enablement to help channel partners go to market quickly and deliver exceptional quality.

Turnium delivers secure, cost-effective, uninterrupted, and scalable global IT solutions to its channel partners and their end-customers-ensuring that "We get IT done, right."

For more information, contact sales@ttgi.io, visit www.ttgi.io or follow us on Twitter @turnium.

CAUTIONARY NOTES

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange 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 release.

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can 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 state that certain acts, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". 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, as the case may be, to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Some of these risks are described under the "Caution on Forward-Looking Information" section and "Risk Factors" section of the MD&A. 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. There can be no assurance that such information 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 information. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. 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/251102

SOURCE: Turnium Technology Group Inc.
The "Switzerland Data Center Market Investment Analysis Growth Opportunities 2025-2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The Swiss Data Center Market was valued at USD 1.02 billion in 2024, and is projected to reach USD 1.99 billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 11.72%.

Switzerland's data center market has the presence of several local and global data center operators, such as Digital Realty, Equinix, Green, Vantage Data Centers, STACK Infrastructure, Swisscom, NorthC, NTT DATA, and others. Some of the existing data center facilities are expanding their data centers across the country. It will help to increase the competitiveness of the Switzerland data center market.

The Swiss data center market has the presence of several global support infrastructure providers that will increase its competitiveness in the market. Some of the support infrastructure vendors in the Switzerland data center market such ABB, Caterpillar, Cummins, Eaton, Legrand, Mitsubishi Electric, Rittal, Rolls-Royce, Schneider Electric, Socomec, STULZ, and Vertiv.

Switzerland's data center market has several local and global construction contractors operating in the market, including Arcos'arre Architecture, Arup, Astron Buildings, Basler Hofmann, DPR Construction, ffbk Architekten, Gruner, ISG, Kirby Group Engineering, Steiger Concept, Turner Townsend, Webuild Group, Equans, Royal HaskoningDHV, STS Group, Drees Sommer, and Others. For instance, in Switzerland, Basler Hofmann provided structural engineering services for a new ZRH11 facility of Vantage Data Centres in Zurich.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

In August 2024, the government of Switzerland took the initiative to improve cloud infrastructure across the country to fulfill the cloud demand. For instance, the Swiss government developed the Swiss Government Cloud (SGC) project. It will help to create a new cloud infrastructure to meet the specific needs of the confederation. This project will be managed by the Federal Office of Information Technology, Systems and Telecommunication (FOITT) and is set to run from 2025 to 2032. The Swiss government Cloud (SGC) project will include three main components such as public cloud, public cloud on-prem, and private cloud on-prem.

In Switzerland, the government and data center operators took the initiative to increase the use of renewable energy, and many data center operators have adopted renewable energy for their data centers. For instance, in January 2025, Infomaniak, a Geneva-based cloud provider company, opened a newly built data center facility Geneva data center in Geneva, Switzerland, which is powered by 100% renewable energy from hydroelectric energy.

The AWS Region in Zurich is expected to create more than 2,500 full-time jobs, including construction, facility maintenance, engineering, and telecommunications, every year for the next 15 years by 2036.

In September 2024, Erne, a Swiss construction group, announced that it had signed a strategic partnership deal with FlexBase Group, a technology firm, to build an AI-ready data center in Laufenburg, which will use liquid cooling in cooling systems.

WHY SHOULD YOU BUY THIS RESEARCH?

Market size available in the investment area, power capacity, and the Switzerland colocation market revenue.

An assessment of the data center investment in Switzerland by colocation, hyperscale, and enterprise operators.

Data center investments in the area (square feet) and power capacity (MW) across cities in the country.

A detailed study of the existing Switzerland data center market landscape, an in-depth market analysis, and insightful predictions about the Switzerland data center market size during the forecast period.

Snapshot of existing and upcoming third-party data center facilities in Switzerland Facilities Covered (Existing): 54 Facilities Identified (Upcoming): 07 Coverage: 15+ Cities Existing vs. Upcoming (Data Center Area) Existing vs. Upcoming (IT Load Capacity)

Data center colocation market in Switzerland Colocation Market Revenue Forecast (2021-2030) Retail vs Wholesale Colocation Market Revenue Forecast (2021-2030) Retail Wholesale Colocation Pricing

The Switzerland data center landscape market investments are classified into IT, power, cooling, and general construction services with sizing and forecast.

A comprehensive analysis of the latest trends, growth rate, potential opportunities, growth restraints, and prospects for the market.

Business overview and product offerings of prominent IT infrastructure providers, construction contractors, support infrastructure providers, and investors operating in the market.

A transparent research methodology and the analysis of the demand and supply aspects of the market.

EXISTING VS. UPCOMING DATA CENTERS

Existing Facilities in the Region (Area and Power Capacity) Zurich Other Cities

List of Upcoming Facilities in the Region (Area and Power Capacity) Zurich Other Cities



IT Infrastructure Providers:

Arista Networks

Atos

Broadcom

Cisco Systems

Dell Technologies

Fujitsu

Hewlett Packard Enterprise

Huawei Technologies

IBM

Inspur

Lenovo

NetApp

NEC Corporation

Data Center Construction Contractors Sub-Contractors

Arcos'arre Architecture

Arup

Basler Hofmann

cpcm

DPR Construction

ffbk Architekten

Gruner

ISG

Kirby Group Engineering

Steiger Concept

Turner Townsend

Webuild Group

GRUNER&FRIENDS

Astron Buildings

Implenia

Equans

Royal HaskoningDHV

STS Group

Exyte

Drees Sommer

Support Infrastructure Providers

ABB

Caterpillar

Cummins

Eaton

Legrand

Mitsubishi Electric

Rittal

Rolls-Royce

Schneider Electric

Socomec

STULZ

Vertiv

Data Center Investors

AtlasEdge

BrainServe SA

Digital Realty

Equinix

Green

nLighten

NorthC

NTT DATA

STACK Infrastructure

Swisscom

Vantage Data Centers

Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 113 Forecast Period 2024 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $1024 Million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $1991 Million Compound Annual Growth Rate 11.7% Regions Covered Switzerland

REPORT COVERAGE

This report analyses the Switzerland data center market share. It elaborately analyses the existing and upcoming facilities and investments in IT, electrical, mechanical infrastructure, general construction, and tier standards. It discusses market sizing and investment estimation for different segments.

The segmentation includes:

IT Infrastructure Servers Storage Systems Network Infrastructure

Electrical Infrastructure UPS Systems Generators Transfer Switches Switchgears PDUs Other Electrical Infrastructure

Mechanical Infrastructure Cooling Systems Rack Cabinets Other Mechanical Infrastructure

Cooling Systems CRAC CRAH Units Chiller Units Cooling Towers, Condensers Dry Coolers Other Cooling Units

General Construction Core Shell Development Installation Commissioning Services Engineering Building Design Fire Detection Suppression Systems Physical Security Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM)

Tier Standard Tier I Tier II Tier III Tier IV

Geography Zurich Other Cities



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/krz4z6

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.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250507917983/en/

Contacts:

ResearchAndMarkets.com

Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager

press@researchandmarkets.com

For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470

For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900
PARIS, FR / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 / The Paris Court of International Arbitration is pleased to announce that Dr. John J. Maalouf, Senior Partner of the Wall Street law firm Maalouf Ashford & Talbot, LLP, has been elected as the new President of the Court.

President of the Court, Dr. John J. Maalouf

The PCIA Board of Directors issued the following statement: "We are delighted to announce that Dr. Maalouf has agreed to serve as the PCIA's new President. John is one of the world's leading authorities on international arbitration with over thirty (30) years of experience in the field, both as an attorney and as an arbitrator, and he brings to the PCIA not only a wealth of experience and knowledge, but also unparalleled leadership abilities".

Dr. Maalouf said on his appointment: "I'm honored to have been elected to serve as President of the Paris Court of International Arbitration, of one of the world's most respected and prestigious centers for global dispute resolution. The PCIA's Roster of Arbitrators includes many of the world's leading experts in the field of international arbitration, and I'm looking forward to working closely with each of them".

About the Paris Court of International Arbitration

The Paris Court of International Arbitration is one of the world's leading institutions for global commercial dispute resolution. The PCIA provides efficient, flexible and impartial administration of arbitration and other ADR proceedings, regardless of location, and under any system of law. PCIA arbitrators deliver effective, timely and cost-effective resolution of disputes, so that companies can get back to doing what they do best, running their businesses.

For additional information, please visit https://pariscourt.org

About Dr. John J. Maalouf

The President of the Court, Dr. John J. Maalouf, is Senior Partner of the Wall Street law firm Maalouf Ashford & Talbot, LLP, and is a globally recognized expert in the areas of International Trade & Finance Law, International Arbitration & Litigation, Banking Law, Corporate Law, Business Law, Oil & Gas Law, Shipping & Maritime Law, Mining Law and Mergers & Acquisitions.

Dr. Maalouf has been ranked as one of the Top 10 International Trade & Finance Lawyers in the United States for the past 19 consecutive years by the United States Lawyer Rankings, 2006 - 2025 Editions, being named to the No. 1 position for the past eight (8) successive years.

Dr. Maalouf was first admitted to the Bar in 1993. He has over 30 years of experience representing clients in connection with large cross-border disputes as an attorney, and over 20 years of experience resolving complex international commercial disputes as an arbitrator.

In addition, Dr. Maalouf is a member of MENSA, the International High IQ Society.

Media Contact

admin@pariscourt.org

SOURCE: Paris Court of International Arbitration

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/the-paris-court-of-international-arbitration-elects-dr.-john-j.-1024315
NYON, Switzerland, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The internet's reigning feline icon, Choupette, has landed her most unexpected role with luxury's most polarizing watch brand Hublot. The Swiss watchmaker has tapped fashion's famously pampered cat to celebrate its 20th anniversary of the iconic Big Bang collection.

Known for rewriting the rules of luxury, Hublot is the antithesis of quiet design. It challenges the status quo of watchmaking with bold product design and just like the timepieces themselves, Hublot wearers aren't afraid to stand out. Two decades ago, the introduction of the Big Bang collection ignited a shift in the industry by daring to fuse unconventional materials and disregard traditional tropes of the category. Hublot and its Big Bang have gone from one showstopper to another, building on a spirit of revolution, audacity and playfulness. With many world-firsts and genre-defying feats, the Big Bang will go down in history as the first truly iconic watch of the 21st century and a beacon of creativity in a field that's usually confined by history and tradition.

The campaign unveils Hublot's new tagline - "Own It". A bold and unapologetic call to action, and an uncompromising mindset. This new mantra captures the authentic, loud, and polarising spirit of the brand. Hublot has chosen the one and only Choupette, who doesn't have a wrist or know how to tell the time. Choupette, a cultural icon, brings her signature attitude to a campaign that celebrates outrageous confidence and radical individuality that define both her and Hublot.

Julien Tornare, Hublot's CEO says: "The Big Bang represents a revolution in watchmaking, a perfect union of tradition and modernity. While remaining rooted in the values of luxury watchmaking, such as artisanal quality and attention to detail, Hublot has managed to position the Big Bang as a disruptor within an industry that has traditionally seen little design innovation. This is what sets us apart."

Captured by visionary photographer Carlijn Jacobs, the campaign unfolds in a series of striking, high fashion visuals interspersed with meme-inspired content. With this, Hublot embraces the new language of luxury on social media, engaging people with storytelling, playfulness and unpredictability.

From 'failed' takes to Choupette's diva moments, the campaign is far from another polished luxury marketing campaign. Including behind-the-scenes footage it offers a rare, self-aware glimpse into a luxury world that doesn't take itself too seriously. Putting this low filter lens on high luxury allows Hublot to break the fourth wall and bring its audience into the moment, rather than observe from afar.

The campaign commenced on 1st May where Choupette is modelling the Big Bang 20th Anniversary Red Magic. Throughout the month, the spotlight shifts to two more icons: the striking Big Bang Tourbillon Automatic Yellow Neon Saxem, worn by a chic mysterious lady in a statement faux-fur coat, and the Big Bang 20th Anniversary Titanium Ceramic piece, seen on a powerful athlete unapologetically working out right in a gym locker.

Contact

v.pela@hublot.ch

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2679833/Hublot_Choupette.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2679829/Hublot_Choupette.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1765293/5301946/Hublot_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/the-worlds-most-famous-and-pampered-feline-choupette-stars-in-hublots-big-bang-20th-anniversary-campaign-302448370.html
Dr. Kirk Lozada details how tip-plasty can benefit patients with isolated nasal tip concerns and explores criteria for safe, effective outcomes.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 / Small adjustments to the tip of the nose can make a dramatic difference in facial balance, yet not every patient seeking nasal refinement requires a full rhinoplasty. Philadelphia facial plastic surgeon Dr. Kirk Lozada is shedding light on tip-plasty-a focused procedure that reshapes or re-positions only the nasal tip-and explaining which anatomical features, aesthetic goals, and health factors determine good candidacy.

Dr. Kirk Lozada

Dr. Lozada is a board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon specializing in rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty, and advanced facial rejuvenation.

Why Tip-Plasty Deserves Its Own Spotlight

Most patients researching nose surgery encounter the broad term rhinoplasty. While a traditional rhinoplasty addresses the bridge, tip, and often internal structures that affect breathing, a tip-plasty concentrates exclusively on the cartilaginous tip complex. By limiting surgical dissection to this area, recovery can be faster and the overall change more subtle. Tip-plasty is ideal for individuals who are happy with their nasal bridge height or width but feel self-conscious about a bulbous, drooping, or under-projected tip.

In recent educational videos released by Dr. Lozada, he notes that a small subset of patients are what he calls "unicorn patients" whose nasal features are already in harmony with the proposed new tip position. He explains that these cases are few and far between but they do exist and allow for solo tip-plasty procedures where only the tip shape or position are addressed. Because these cases are uncommon, Dr. Lozada emphasizes the importance of a personalized consultation to determine whether tip-plasty alone-or a combined approach-will achieve balanced, natural-looking results.

Understanding Tip Shape vs. Tip Position

To demystify candidacy, Dr. Lozada breaks the assessment into two visual categories:

Tip Shape (What You See Head-On): When you look straight at your nose, the tip can seem round and full or slim and defined. That shape comes from the flexible cartilage that supports the tip. In a tip-plasty, the surgeon can gently refine this cartilage so the tip looks narrower and better balanced with the rest of your face-without changing the bridge above it. Tip Position (What You See from the Side): From a side view, the key questions are: Does the tip droop, sit just right, or tilt up too much And does it stick out farther than you'd like During surgery, the tip can be rotated slightly up or down and moved closer to-or farther from-the face so it lines up naturally with your other features. The goal is a profile that looks proportionate and effortless, not obviously "done."

Who Makes a Good Candidate

Although every nose is unique, Dr. Lozada outlines several traits shared by strong tip-plasty candidates:

Well-proportioned nasal bridge - When the bridge already fits the face, refining only the tip can improve balance without creating new asymmetries.

Localized tip concerns - Issues such as a bulbous tip, mild droop, or slight asymmetry can often be corrected without touching the rest of the nose.

Healthy skin quality - Skin that is neither too thick nor too thin allows the new cartilage shape to show clearly once swelling subsides.

Realistic expectations - Tip-plasty delivers subtle, natural refinement rather than a dramatic makeover, so patients should understand the scope of change.

Good overall health and non-smoking status - A strong blood supply supports healing; smokers are encouraged to quit well before surgery to lower complication risks.

Completed nasal growth - Typically, women should be at least 16-17 years old and men 17-18 years old so the nose has finished developing.

The "In-Office Tip Lift"

In one recent case, Dr. Lozada performed a minimally invasive tip lift entirely under local anesthesia. The patient was awake and comfortable; a tiny internal incision allowed the surgeon to elevate the drooping tip by just a few millimeters-enough to restore balance and prevent the nose from dipping when she smiled. The procedure lasted about an hour, and the patient walked out the same day with no external scars. While this approach is appealing, Dr. Lozada cautions that not everyone is a candidate, underscoring the need for an expert evaluation.

Consultation: Mapping Out an Individualized Plan

A comprehensive consultation with Dr. Lozada involves:

Digital Photography & 3-D Imaging - High-resolution images help simulate subtle tip rotations or reductions so patients can visualize potential outcomes. Airway Assessment - Even when no breathing problems are reported, internal anatomy is examined to rule out issues that might be worsened-or could be simultaneously corrected-during surgery. Discussion of Aesthetic Goals - Patients describe how their nose looks from multiple angles and in motion (e.g., when smiling). Review of Surgical Options - Dr. Lozada explains whether isolated tip-plasty, full rhinoplasty, or a staged approach best meets the patient's goals and anatomical needs. Recovery Planning - Typical downtime ranges from 7-10 days for tip-plasty, with residual swelling subsiding over several months. Patients receive detailed after-care instructions tailored to their lifestyles.

Patients can explore real-world results in Dr. Lozada's before-and-after gallery, which illustrates the spectrum of tip refinements achievable through meticulous cartilage sculpting.

Benefits of Choosing a Rhinoplasty Specialist

Dr. Lozada is a second-generation facial plastic surgeon, fellowship-trained at the University of Pennsylvania, and editor of two international textbooks on rhinoplasty techniques. His practice focuses on natural results, scar-minimizing methods, and evidence-based care. Concentrating exclusively on the face-and nose in particular-allows him to:

Preserve nasal support while reshaping, reducing the risk of long-term tip collapse.

Employ scarless internal incisions whenever possible, leaving no visible external marks.

Offer nuanced techniques such as the "sneaky rhinoplasty," where only subtle tip rotation is performed without altering the front view of the nose.

Combine functional and cosmetic goals so breathing remains uncompromised.

Location & Contact Information

Lozada Facial Plastic Surgery - Philadelphia

1608 Walnut Street, 9 Floor, Suite 902B

Philadelphia, PA 19103

Phone: (267) 817-4600

Prospective patients can request an appointment through the online contact form or call either location directly to schedule a personalized consultation.

About Dr. Kirk Lozada

Dr. Lozada is a board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon specializing in rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty, and advanced non-surgical facial rejuvenation. Having trained with pioneers in aesthetic surgery, he serves as faculty for the Penn Facial Plastic Fellowship program and frequently lectures on cartilage-preserving nasal techniques. His practice philosophy centers on individualized treatment plans that enhance each patient's unique features while maintaining authentic expression.

Contact Information

Dr. Kirk Lozada

info@drkirklozada.com

(267) 817-4600

SOURCE: Kirk Lozada, MD, Facial Plastic Surgery

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/healthcare-and-pharmaceutical/philadelphia-nose-surgery-expert-discusses-who-makes-a-good-candidate-1023706
Elavon, one of the world's leading payment service providers, is launching its new payment gateway on the Polish market. The 'Elavon Payment Gateway' service enables entrepreneurs to accept payments in shops, using POS terminals, and online, through an integrated payment gateway. Elavon is dedicated to driving digital transformation and to deliver multi-faceted solutions that combine all popular payment methods from payment cards, through BLIK and Account-2-Account bank payments, to Google Pay and Apple Pay digital wallets, providing convenience for end customers.

One gateway thousands of payment possibilities

With Elavon's payment gateway, merchants can simplify their operations by offering customers an easy and secure way to make payments. All this in one convenient place without the need to sign multiple contracts or manage different billing systems. This tool makes payments faster and entrepreneurs can focus on what really matters to them growing their business.

The Elavon Payment Gateway solution is designed for small and medium-sized enterprises in various industries, such as trade, services, restaurants, hotels, and guesthouses, as well as for any business looking for a secure and complex option for accepting cashless payments. Elavon offers additional value through innovative solutions such as self-service platforms, the Elavon Connect mobile app and the Smart Form product that improve customer interactions. The team of experts provides support in 12 languages, including Polish, English, German, and Spanish, allowing merchants to communicate in the customer's preferred language.

For the hospitality industry, the ability to handle payments in more than 80 currencies and Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) are key benefits. Hotels attract guests from all over the world, and with Elavon's gateway, they can accept payments in their customers' currencies, increasing the guest experience and simplifying the payment process.

Meanwhile, for the retail industry, the key advantages are transaction security and reduction of shopping cart abandonment. Elavon offers the highest standards of security, which builds customer trust.

Security and business development

"We estimate that up to 70% of customers abandon purchases when they encounter difficulties with payment, which means merchants are potentially losing out on a lot of business. That's why we've made it as simple as possible for both buyers and sellers. Our gateway integrates with popular e-commerce platforms through ready-made plugins, and buyers can choose their language and preferred payment method," said Rafal Golebiewski, Head of Small and Medium Business, Poland, Germany, and Nordics at Elavon.

Entrepreneurs need solutions that are supportive, not an additional challenge. Elavon's payment gateway is easy to use, reliable and helps you grow your business without unnecessary complications.

Elavon, owned by US Bank, is one of the largest payment service providers in the world. The company guarantees the security of transactions and user data with its PCI DSS certification, which covers all card payments, regardless of amount or type.

Elavon customers can count on 24/7 technical support, with an average wait time on the helpline of just 20 seconds. From the first contact with a business customer, a dedicated support team is assigned, ensuring the highest level of comfort and satisfaction.

"Entrepreneurs today expect not only secure, but above all simple payment solutions that will allow them to focus on business development. Our new gateway is the answer to these needs a one-stop shop for all sales channels, with a single contract and joint billing," continued Rafal Golebiewski, Head of Small and Medium Business, Poland, Germany, and Nordics at Elavon.

The service will be available in Poland from April 2025.

About Elavon

Elavon, a wholly owned subsidiary of U.S. Bancorp (NYSE: USB), provides end-to-end payment processing solutions and services to more than 2 million customers in the United States, Europe, and Canada. As the leading provider for airlines and a top five provider in hospitality, healthcare, retail, and public sector/education, Elavon's innovative payment solutions are designed to solve pain points for the smallest businesses to the largest global enterprises.

U.S. Bank Europe Designated Activity Company (a limited liability company with a designated object of business) branch in Poland with its registered office in Warsaw, 17 Pulawska St., 02-515 Warsaw, registered in the Register of Entrepreneurs of the National Court Register kept by the District Court for the City of Warsaw in Warsaw, XIII Economic Division of the National Court Register under KRS number 287836, REGON number 300649197, NIP number 2090000825, share capital of U.S. Bank Europe Designated Activity Company 6,400,001.00 Euros.

U.S. Bank Europe DAC conducts business under the name Elavon Merchant Services and is subject to the supervision of the Central Bank of Ireland.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250507550687/en/

Contacts:

katie.moxom@cognitomedia.com
'Coronation Street' legend Charlie Lawson was rushed to hospital after falling over twice.

Coronation Street legend Charlie Lawson rushed to hospital after falling over twice

The 65-year-old actor - who is best known for several stints in the ITV soap as Jim McDonald - took to social media from his hospital bed to update fans on his condition.

In a video captioned "Ooooh s***!!!", he said: "Hi folks, went to physio this morning and she sent me straight to A+E, which I did.

"They examined me. I have an MRI scan and I'm sitting waiting for the results.

"They've whisked me back in for more examinations so it's not going awfully well at the moment.

"Anyway, I'll keep you updated.

"They put a wristband on me and all sorts of craic.

"I've fallen over twice, so something going wrong down there."

Charlie - who married his long-time love Debbie Stanley in 2023 - also told one concerned fan that he is waiting to hear from the spinal surgeon.

He wrote: "Thanks darling, awaiting the opinion of the spinal surgeon. Xxx (sic)"

Last year, Charlie admitted he doesn't ever envisage being invited back to 'Corrie' to reprise his role as Jim, who he last portrayed in 2018.

He told the Daily Mirror newspaper at the time: "It wouldn't shock me if he dies in Australia. I think it would be a terrible waste of a character, and I would stand up and have a pint and salute to him. But I wouldn't be broken-hearted because I've been back seven or eight times, for Christ's sake, since 2001 that's pretty damn good as it's 2024.

"Now I haven't been back since 2018 but the whole world has changed since then into a crazy woke sort of... it's all changed. I'm not quite sure how Jim would react to 24 genders in Weatherfield. I suspect he would probably - if the writers had the courage - I suspect he would probably say that that was nonsense."

Jim was famously married to former Rovers Return landlady Liz McDonald (Beverley Callard), but their relationship was tested by alcoholism and infidelity.

They divorced in 1997 after Liz had been unfaithful to him, and they remarried in 2000, but Jim was later imprisoned for the manslaughter of drug dealer Jez Quigley (Lee Boardman), who had previously beaten his son Steve (Simon Gregson) up over a job.

Liz divorced Jim for a second time during his prison sentence, and in 2011 he tried to win her back by robbing a bank.

But he was put behind bars again.

In 2018, Jim returned to the series with a young woman called Hannah Gilmore (Hannah Ellis Ryan), who he falsely claimed was his and Liz's long-lost daughter Katie.

However, Hannah was actually Jim's girlfriend, and the pair were later arrested for a money-making scam when the truth emerged.
MUNICH, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- At Intersolar Europe 2025, Huawei Digital Power hosted the FusionSolar Strategy & New Product Launch under the theme "Smart PV & ESS: Powering a Grid Forming Future." Welcoming around 300 global customers and partners, this launch highlighted all-scenario grid forming and high-quality development, introducing next-generation grid forming ESS products and solutions for utility, microgrid, C&I, and residential applications. The launch propelled the renewable energy industry into the grid-forming era.

Steven Zhou, President of Smart PV & ESS Product Line, Huawei Digital Power, announced the strategic goal of integrating "4T" technologies (bit, watt, heat, and battery) to build the energy infrastructure for new power systems. He also unveiled three key value propositions: all-scenario grid forming, cell-to-grid safety, and "one matches all," accelerating the development of new power systems powered entirely by renewable energy.

All-scenario grid forming: Grid forming technology is applied to power generation, transmission, distribution, and consumption to ensure the long-term stability of new power systems. Cell-to-grid safety: Safety measures are implemented for each phase to ensure the safety of equipment, personnel, and assets. One matches all: The hardware supports flexible scalability and smooth C-rate evolution. The AI-powered PV+ESS collaborative management platform can adapt to various business models to implement energy yield prediction and automatic optimization of operation policies.

Huawei FusionSolar strives to deliver high-quality solutions and foster an open ecosystem. It provides more competitive solutions for customers and brings more development opportunities to partners, driving the high-quality development of the industry.

Steve Zheng, President of Smart ESS Business, Huawei Digital Power, released the next-generation all-scenario Smart String Grid Forming ESS Platform, which includes the new utility and C&I Smart String Grid Forming ESS. Designed to address challenges in renewables grid integration and ESS safety, Huawei's Smart String Grid Forming ESS Platform offers all-scenario grid forming, cell-to-grid safety, full-lifecycle cost-effectiveness, and full-link digitalization. The platform defines the golden standard of grid-forming capabilities: Grid forming ESS can adapt to any BESS SOC status, any grid SCR, and at any time, while supporting system evolution to enhance future power grids.

The solution has already been applied to the 1.3 GWh ESS and 400 MW PV project in The Red Sea destination in the Middle East. This project is the world's largest PV+ESS microgrid, powering the city with 100% renewable energy. The microgrid has been running stably for more than 18 months, during which time it has provided more than 1 billion kWh of green electricity. The 30 MW PV and 6 MW/24 MWh ESS project in Ngari prefecture of China, uses Huawei's Smart PV+ESS Solution. The fully grid-forming power plant is located at a high altitude (about 4,600 m) with extremely low temperatures and weak grid conditions. Its PV power output can be increased from 1.5 MW to 12 MW, increasing PV integration by 75%. According to the plant's statistics, the ESS provides grid support more than 30 times within 10 days. Huawei's Smart String Grid Forming ESS gleans more value from energy storage through power electronics technology, as well as ensuring grid safety and stability through digital intelligence. It opens a new chapter of grid forming renewable energy worldwide.

In addition, Huawei Digital Power redefines ESS safety with six cell-to-grid safety designs to upgrade the safety protection from the conventional container-level to the more refined pack-level, ensuring safer protection for the ESS. Combined with multi-dimensional, full-link, and intelligent diagnosis of the battery management system (BMS), the system's proactive safety capability is greatly improved, safeguarding the healthy development of the energy storage industry.

SUN POWER, President of Residential PV & ESS Business, Huawei Digital Power, released the new Home Energy Management Solution 6.0 that covers green power generation and intelligent energy consumption, leading the way in home energy management. This solution includes a full range of new products, such as the residential ESS LUNA S1-7kWh. The ESS has an industry-leading 15-year warranty, over 40% more usable energy than the industry average, and on-demand capacity expansion up to 252 kWh. It can also adapt to a wide range of residential and small-sized C&I scenarios. Huawei's residential PV+ESS solution, thanks to its strong technical capabilities, has become the choice for 3.9 million households and 30,000 installers worldwide. From a zero-carbon house in Italy to a PV town in Sweden, this solution is optimal for home energy independence and community energy sharing.

Huawei FusionSolar is committed to the strategic goal of reshaping the all-scenario grid forming standards. Huawei provides global customers and partners with fully grid-forming and high-quality smart PV+ESS solutions that go beyond expectations, accelerating the global energy transition and construction of new power systems.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2681220/image_5027572_20335666.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2681221/1.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2681222/2.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2681223/3.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/huawei-digital-powers-all-scenario-grid-forming-ess-accelerates-the-global-energy-transition-and-construction-of-new-power-systems-302448597.html
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - ESGold Corp. (CSE: ESAU) (OTCQB: ESAUF) (FSE: Z7D) ("ESGold" or the "Company"), a pre-production gold and silver company advancing its fully permitted Montauban Project in Quebec, is pleased to announce that it will present at the Metals Investor Forum in Vancouver, BC, on Friday, May 9, 2025, at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia.

ESGold was selected to participate in this exclusive, invite-only event by Peter Krauth, respected author of Silver Stock Investor and long-time advocate for high-conviction opportunities in the resource sector. Mr. Krauth has identified ESGold as a standout story among junior gold-silver companies advancing toward production and poised for potential discovery.

Event Details

Rosewood Hotel Georgia - Vancouver, BC

Friday, May 9, 2025

Event Start: 8:00 AM PST

ESGold Presentation: 2:50 PM PST

More Info & Registration

For those unable to attend in person, please register using the link above to join the event virtually.

During the presentation, ESGold will provide an update on its ongoing construction at Montauban and the expected delivery of first gold and silver production by year-end. As ESGold advances construction and prepares for near-term ANT survey results, attendees can expect timely insights into the Company's transition to production.

The Metals Investor Forum will provide shareholders, analysts, retail and institutional investors with the opportunity to hear directly from the Company's leadership as ESGold transitions from development to production, and potentially into a new discovery phase.

About ESGold Corp.

ESGold Corp. (CSE: ESAU) (OTCQB: ESAUF) (FSE: Z7D) is a fully permitted, pre-production resource company at the forefront of clean mining and exploration innovation. With proven expertise in Quebec, the Company is advancing its projects toward production and feasibility while delivering long-term value through sustainable resource recovery and exploration. ESGold's flagship Montauban property, located 80 kilometers west of Quebec City, serves as a model for responsible mining practices, combining near-term production with district-scale discovery potential.

For more information, please contact ESGold Corp. at +1-888-370-1059 or visit esgold.com for additional resources, including a French version of this press release, past news releases, a 3D model of the Montauban processing plant, media interviews, and opinion-editorial pieces.

Stay connected by following us on X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, and joining our Telegram channel.

Forward-Looking Statements:

This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements are based on assumptions and expectations that involve a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially. Forward-looking information includes statements regarding the expected use of proceeds, the development and construction timelines of the Montauban Project, future production, and anticipated project milestones. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. All forward-looking information contained in this release is qualified by these cautionary statements.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251082

SOURCE: ESGold Corp.
EQS Post-admission Duties announcement: Haier Smart Home Co.,Ltd. / Third country release according to Article 50 Para. 1, No. 2 of the WpHG [the German Securities Trading Act]

Haier Smart Home Co.,Ltd.: Announcement of Publication of Circular regarding the upcoming Annual General Meeting on Hong Kong Stock Exchange



07.05.2025 / 14:40 CET/CEST

Dissemination of a Post-admission Duties announcement according to Article 50 Para. 1, No. 2 WpHG transmitted by EQS News - a service of EQS Group.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.





Announcement of Publication of Circular regarding the upcoming Annual General Meeting on Hong Kong Stock Exchange

Qingdao / Shanghai / Frankfurt / Hong Kong, 7 May 2025 - Haier Smart Home Co., Ltd. (the "Company" or "Haier Smart Home", D-share 690D.DE, A-share 600690.SH, H-share 06690.HK) today published a Circular regarding its upcoming Annual General Meeting scheduled for 28 May 2025 on the website of Hong Kong Stock Exchange in accordance with applicable trading rules of Hong Kong Stock Exchange.

The full announcement is available at:

https://www1.hkexnews.hk/listedco/listconews/sehk/2025/0507/2025050701944.pdf

IR Contact:

Haier Smart Home Hong Kong

T: +852 2169 0000

Email: ir@haier.hk

Press Contact:

CROSS ALLIANCE communication GmbH

Sara Pinto

pi@crossalliance.de

T: +49 89 1250903 35

About Haier Smart Home Co., Ltd.:

Haier is one of the world's leading manufacturers of household appliances with a focus on smart home solutions and customized production. Haier Smart Home Co., Ltd. develops, produces and distributes a wide range of household appliances. These include refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, air conditioners, water heaters, kitchen appliances as well as small household appliances and an extensive range of intelligent household appliances. The Company distributes its products through leading household brands such as Haier, Casarte, Leader, Candy, GE Appliances, AQUA and Fisher & Paykel. Haier Smart Home Co., Ltd. has launched Smart Home Experiential Cloud in the Chinese market, which connects homes, users, enterprises and ecosystem partners, and facilitates the integration of Haier's online, offline and micro-store businesses and supports user interaction to further optimize the user experience.

07.05.2025 CET/CEST The EQS Distribution Services include Regulatory Announcements, Financial/Corporate News and Press Releases.

Archive at www.eqs-news.com


Fortune Brands Innovations' Fiberon site generates 2.5x ROI in eight months using Augury's AI-powered Machine Health, triggering an enterprise-wide rollout across their North American and European operations.

Augury, a leader in AI solutions for reliability and process optimization that help industrial companies increase operation-wide productivity, and Fortune Brands Innovations Inc. (NYSE: FBIN), an industry-leading innovation company whose purpose is to elevate every life by transforming spaces into havens, today announced the results of Fortune Brands Innovations' seamless deployment of Augury's full-stack Machine Health solution at its Fiberon sites and on-going enterprise-wide rollout across 1,000+ machines internationally.

As part of their collaboration, the companies have shared details with Bloomberg Originals about how cutting-edge AI capabilities are reshaping the future of manufacturing. The video, which is an episode within the Genbiz Video Series, can be found here: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/videos/2025-05-02/how-ai-might-reshape-factories-video

"At Fortune Brands Innovations, innovation is core to everything we do. But as a global manufacturer of home and security products that millions count on to make their homes and commercial buildings safe, beautiful, and functional, there is no room for error on our factory floors. Every technology we deploy must be fully trusted," said Todd Piatt, VP, Global Manufacturing Operations. "That trust was built quickly as we saw the accuracy of Augury's AI firsthand and experienced the team's responsive, collaborative support, laying the groundwork for a 2.5x ROI during the pilot. The AI strategy we've continuously built in partnership with Augury has amplified these measurable results. Augury consistently delivers unparalleled visibility into our equipment health and performance, and the digital transformation we're powering together will revolutionize our operations into a truly proactive, resilient system."

To boost uptime, increase capacity, extend equipment lifecycles and reduce the cost of asset care, Fortune Brands Innovations turned to Augury's Machine Health solution, an industrial-grade IoT and AI platform trained on the world's largest data library. Augury's full-stack solutions use sensors that capture vibration, temperature, and magnetic data from machines; advanced AI diagnostics; and human reliability experts to improve the health and performance of industrial assets.

The partnership began with a pilot at Fortune Brands Innovations' Fiberon facility in North Carolina, where 40 machines were connected to Augury's AI. After achieving 2.5x ROI in just eight months, the success of the pilot led Fortune Brands Innovations to leverage Augury's Fast Track methodology for a 12-month enterprise-wide rollout. Now at the halfway mark, Augury's Machine Health solution is already deployed on two-thirds of the 1,000 machines targeted across 16 sites in the U.S., UK, and Mexico.

"Implementing Augury's predictive maintenance solution has been a game-changer for our Fiberon operations," said Pat Knox, Machine Health Program Owner and Director of Manufacturing Intelligence Systems at Fortune Brands Innovations. "There are a lot of predictive maintenance solutions out there that make empty promises solutions that require heavy upfront investment yet they rarely deliver. Augury was different. Early in the pilot, it helped us prevent a catastrophic melt-pump failure, which set the stage for a 2.5 times payback. This fast time-to-value, combined with Augury's seamless integration into every level of our technology stack, made the decision to scale across 16 plants a no-brainer. Augury has truly transformed the way we approach maintenance, ensuring our equipment runs at peak performance."

"It's inspiring to see how much Fortune Brands Innovations has been able to accomplish on the digital transformation front," said Saar Yoskovitz, co-founder and CEO of Augury. "The entire business has embraced a culture of tech innovation and proven the value of data-driven decision making with benefits across the organization from asset health and lifespan improvements to team engagement and energizing frontline adoption. Augury is proud to be a part of those accomplishments."

As global manufacturers navigate market volatility, Fortune Brands Innovations charts a different path. By tapping into a bold digital transformation strategy, the company delivers tangible impact across its bottom-line, strengthens its supply chain and ensures the consistent delivery of high-quality products to its customers. Its strategic approach to scaling AI offers a compelling blueprint industrial leaders can use to avoid pilot purgatory and truly futureproof their factories.

Learn more about how Augury is helping manufacturers unlock production predictability here.

About Augury

A leader in Machine Health and Process Health solutions, Augury uses purpose-built AI technology, trained by industry experts and the world's largest data library, to help manufacturing and industrial companies eliminate production downtime, improve process efficiency, maximize yield, and reduce waste and emissions. Our global customers achieve 5-20x ROI, often in a matter of months. Together with our customers, we are pioneering Production Health to transform how people and machines work together to push the boundaries of human productivity.

For more information, visit www.augury.com

About Fortune Brands Innovations

Fortune Brands Innovations, Inc. is an industry-leading innovation company dedicated to creating smarter, safer and more beautiful homes and improving lives. The Company's driving purpose is to elevate every life by transforming spaces into havens.

The Company is a brand, innovation and channel leader focused on exciting, supercharged categories in the home products, security and commercial building markets. The Company's portfolio of brands includes Moen, House of Rohl, Aqualisa, SpringWell, Therma-Tru, Larson, Fiberon, Master Lock, SentrySafe and Yale residential.

Fortune Brands is headquartered in Deerfield, Illinois and trades on the NYSE as FBIN. To learn more, visit www.FBIN.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250507372613/en/

Contacts:

Media

Audrey Surette

augury@pancomm.com
With the acquisitions of Redfast and Prive, Recurly delivers the only platform built to optimize every stage of the subscriber lifecycle from ecommerce conversion to real-time engagement and retention.

Recurly, a leading subscription management platform, announced today fresh off being named Best Subscription Management Platform by 2025 SubSummit that it has acquired the Shopify-first subscription platform Prive and subscriber engagement personalization tool Redfast. With these additions, Recurly becomes the first and only subscription management suite to fully integrate billing, payments, analytics, real-time subscriber engagement, and ecommerce subscription management.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250507475204/en/

With the additions of Redfast and Prive, Recurly becomes the first and only subscription management suite to fully integrate billing, payments, analytics, real-time subscriber engagement, and ecommerce subscription management.

These strategic acquisitions immediately enhance Recurly's ability to deliver deeper personalization, stronger retention, and real-time engagement while expanding its reach into the fast-growing market for ecommerce and physical goods subscriptions. With this expansion, Recurly is empowering brands to stay ahead of what's next and optimize every stage of the subscriber lifecycle, driving stronger relationships, accelerating revenue growth, and redefining what success looks like in the subscription economy.

"Today's subscription businesses need more than billing they need the ability to manage the full subscriber lifecycle, mobilize data in real time, and prioritize flexibility and personalization at every touchpoint," said Joe Rohrlich, CEO of Recurly. "With the acquisitions of Redfast and Prive, Recurly is redefining what the all-in-one subscription experience looks like. We're giving our customers powerful new tools to drive engagement, optimize pricing, and manage subscriptions for both digital services and physical goods all on a single platform designed to maximize growth and retention. What's most exciting is that customers can now immediately choose the path that impacts their business most."

Prive Expands Recurly's Reach to Physical Goods Subscriptions

By acquiring Prive, Recurly strengthens its capabilities even further beyond digital goods to include physical goods subscriptions, providing greater flexibility, scalability, and personalization for businesses in a market where demand is projected to reach $1T by 2028.

This new offering, debuting as Recurly Commerce, delivers subscription automation, pricing intelligence, and revenue optimization for B2C and physical goods subscription Shopify brands like Coterie, Public Goods, GEM, Kudos, and over a hundred more. Combined with Recurly's subscription expertise and innovation, mid-market and enterprise ecommerce brands will have access to a more strategic alternative to outdated legacy billing solutions.

Co-founders Alex Craciun and Claudia Laurie will be advisors to Recurly during the integration, ensuring business continuity and an uncompromised customer experience.

"Lack of flexibility in subscription billing has long been a pain point for businesses of all kinds," said Craciun. "As subscriptions continue to grow in the physical goods space, businesses need flexible, data-driven tools to meet evolving customer expectations. We're excited to join the Recurly ecosystem and help more high-growth brands optimize their subscription businesses, scale smarter, and stay ahead of a rapidly changing market," added Laurie.

Retention is the New Growth Strategy with Redfast

With the acquisition of Redfast, which will rebrand as Recurly Engage, Recurly customers can now predict churn, deliver personalized prompts, and drive critical in-product actions when and where they matter most. This enables brands to transition from reactive churn prevention to proactive retention strategies, ensuring more subscribers stay, upgrade, and deepen their brand engagement. According to reports, current and engaged customers spend 67% more on average than those who are new to a business, driving home that the acquisition of Redfast will deliver unparalleled benefits to Recurly customers like never before.

"Building a loyal subscriber base is the key to retention and growth," said Rajeev Raman, CEO of Redfast. "With consumer acquisition costs rising and their expectations for personalization being at an all-time high, subscription businesses must engage subscribers precisely when it matters most, influencing key decisions like upgrades, renewals, and retention in real time. Joining forces with Recurly allows us to help brands turn engagement into their most powerful growth lever."

Raman will join Recurly, where he will help accelerate the growth of Recurly Engage and further strengthen Recurly's leadership across the full subscriber lifecycle.

This milestone builds on the momentum of Recurly's recent spring product drop that introduced over 50 new tools and updates, like Recurly Compass, a powerful new AI-powered growth engine.

Get Ahead of What's Next with Recurly

SubscriptionX(London): Join Recurly's Chief Product Officer, Priya Lakshminarayanan, during her closing keynote, where she'll discuss more about these exciting acquisitions, along with scaling subscriptions for enterprise ecommerce, May 14, 2025 at 3:30 p.m. BT.

SubSummit (Dallas): CEO Joe Rohrlich and CMO Lina Tonk will accept Recurly's award for the 2025 Best Subscription Management Platform, while Rohrlich will also be diving into how personalization fuels subscriber loyalty with Megan Krouse from Cinemark, May 28, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. CT.

London Tech WeekPriya Lakshminarayanan will share insights on getting the edge with AI and transforming retention with predictive analytics, June 11, 2025 at 10:20 a.m. BT.

About Recurly

Recurly is the leading subscription management and billing platform trusted by thousands of brands across digital media, streaming, ecommerce, publishing, SaaS, education, consumer goods, and professional services industries to drive revenue and optimize the subscriber experience. Headquartered in Austin, TX, along with offices in Broomfield, CO, Medellin, and London, Recurly is powering the subscription economy for global enterprises such as Paramount+, Alaska Airlines, Sling, FabFitFun, and Sprout Social. The company provides the flexibility, intelligence, and scalability businesses need to succeed. With industry-leading analytics, revenue recovery tools, and frictionless billing solutions, Recurly helps brands maximize subscriber growth, increase retention, and unlock new revenue opportunities. Learn more at www.recurly.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250507475204/en/

Contacts:

Media Contact

Brian Anderson

press@recurly.com
Nature Medicine today published a study showing that Perspectum's iron corrected T1, or cT1, predicts liver-related and cardiac outcomes, including morbidity. Liver disease is a modifiable cardiac risk factor, and this study confirmed that it can be quantified with MRI cT1.

"The results confirm previous observations of the liver being an early warning sign for cardiac risk as well as confirming the value of cT1 as a measure of liver related health," said co-author, Andrea Dennis, Ph.D. "The American Heart Association recently highlighted the importance of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) awareness, which is often undiagnosed, as a major risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease," Andrea Dennis said further. She followed, "This study provides a strong rationale for the use of multi-organ MRI to stratify at risk patients and to provide early intervention."

The prospective study, entitled, "Cardiac and liver impairment on multi-organ MRI and associations with major adverse cardiovascular and liver events: a prospective cohort study," utilized MRIs from 28,841 community-based individuals in UK biobank over four years to explore the associations of cardiac and liver impairment with cardiovascular and liver events, hospitalization, and mortality. Cardiac and liver impairment were assessed using quantitative MRI by reduced left ventricular ejection fraction and cT1.

"These findings show how multiparametric MRI with AI allows us to see more than with traditional, single organ, analogue tests," said Perspectum CEO, Rajarshi Banerjee, M.D., Ph.D. "Specifically, the study shows how Perspectum's LiverMultiScan results can predict cardiac and liver outcomes. These are the data the regulators need to move away from liver biopsy as a reference standard. Also, we can now evaluate the benefits of new metabolic treatments, like incretins, across organs in a single scan."

Imaging biomarkers have transformed medical diagnostics over the past decade, with cardiac imaging pioneering the success story. In recent years, liver imaging biomarkers that precisely measure organ function have moved from experimental to essential in everyday clinical practice. While traditional blood tests and biopsies once dominated the diagnostic landscape, advanced imaging methods have been proven to be safer, better and more cost effective, as reported in a recent LiverMultiScan study published in Nature Communications Medicine (Shumbayawonda E., et al. 2025).

"The Hepatology community has long sought alternatives to liver biopsy in clinical trials, mirroring our shift away from biopsy-based clinical practice. cT1 from multiparametric MRI has now emerged as a leading solution to this challenge," said Arun Sanyal, M.D., professor in the gastroenterology division of the Department of Internal Medicine at the VCU School of Medicine. Dr. Sanyal continued, "The outcomes data from this study firmly establishes cT1 as a reproducible biomarker with significant prognostic utility, demonstrating its ability to predict clinical outcomes in patients with MASLD." He said further, "The data provides regulators critical evidence needed to satisfy their rigorous evidentiary framework for surrogate endpoint qualification, and makes a compelling case for new, non-invasive measures that can improve outcomes for patients worldwide.

Key findings from the study include:

Elevated cT1 (cT1 800ms) in the liver puts people at 30% increased risk of experiencing a heart-related hospitalization.

Higher levels of cT1 (over 875ms) led to a 9-fold increase in risk of experiencing a serious liver related health outcome within 4 years.

Cardiac and liver impairment together accelerated the time to a cardiovascular event by 20 months.

"The widespread adoption of cardiac imaging biomarkers has paved the way for similar approaches in other specialities, like hepatology, demonstrating how multiparametric MRI imaging can transform disease management," said Rajarshi Banerjee, M.D., Ph.D. "Liver cT1, is now scientifically established as a non-invasive alternative for measuring liver health and, as a result, pushing old clinical guidelines to be re-evaluated and rewritten."

About Perspectum:

Perspectum, a global medical technology company, with offices in the US and UK, delivers leading digital technologies that help clinicians provide better care for patients with chronic metabolic disease, multi-organ diseases, and cancer. With a strong focus on precision medicine using advanced imaging, our vision is to empower patients and clinicians through quantitative assessments of health enabling early detection, diagnosis, monitoring, and targeted treatment. With a diverse team of physicians, biomedical scientists, engineers, and technologists, Perspectum offers a way to manage complex health problems at scale.

About LiverMultiScan:

LiverMultiScan is a commercially available, FDA cleared software medical device (SaMD) intended for diagnosis, monitoring, and clinical management of patients with liver diseases. It is a non-invasive, non-contrast, and safe technology that assesses the liver disease activity, fat, and iron using existing MRI infrastructure and provides visually enhanced patient friendly results. Many research studies and peer reviewed publications demonstrate the clinical utility of LiverMultiScan in the diagnosis and monitoring of liver diseases such as MASH/MASLD, auto- immune hepatitis, and viral hepatitis.

About UK Biobank:

UK Biobank is a large-scale biomedical database and research resource, containing in-depth, de-identified genetic and health information from half a million UK participants. The database, which is regularly augmented with additional data, is globally accessible to approved researchers and scientists undertaking vital research into the most common and life-threatening diseases. UK Biobank's research resource is a major contributor to the advancement of modern medicine and treatment and has enabled several scientific discoveries that improve human health.

About MASLD:

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a spectrum of liver diseases where there is excess fat in the liver (steatosis). MASLD is a growing global public health problem, fueled by the prevalence of obesity and related metabolic disorders. MASLD remains drastically underdiagnosed, often placing patients at risk for complications. Early diagnosis and intervention, including lifestyle modifications and pharmacological treatments, are crucial in managing MASLD and preventing serious liver complications.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250507699867/en/

Contacts:

Nellie Wild

SVP Corporate Affairs

Perspectum, DC Office

nellie.wild@perspectum.com
Vancouver, British Columbia, and Halifax, Nova Scotia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - BioVaxys Technology Corp. (CSE: BIOV) (FSE: 5LB) (OTCQB: BVAXF) ("BioVaxys") and Sona Nanotech Inc. (CSE: SONA) (OTCQB: SNANF) ("Sona") announce today that they have entered into a Research Agreement ("Agreement") to collaborate on the development of new cancer therapeutics based on BioVaxys' DPX Immune Educating Platform ("DPX") in combination with Sona's Targeted Hyperthermia Therapy ("THT"), a photothermal cancer therapy that uses highly targeted infrared light to treat solid tumors. The heat for THT is delivered to tumors using infrared light that is absorbed by Sona's proprietary biocompatible Gold Nanorod ("GNR") technology which elicits a strong immune response.

Carman Giacomantonio, MD, Chief Medical Officer ("CMO") for Sona Nanotech Inc., commented, "Looking beyond our approaching first-in-human Early Feasibility Study clinical trial for our THT cancer therapy, Sona continues to conduct research to build our pipeline of programs to fully exploit the potential of our GNR technology platform. To that end, we're pleased to enter this research collaboration with BioVaxys whose DPX technology provides a unique delivery system that better presents antigens to the immune system. We believe that DPX, with its immune stimulating properties and antigen presentation capabilities, could be an ideal carrier for the neo-antigens that Sona's THT enables, thereby accelerating THT's efficacy. We look forward to working with the BioVaxys team to quickly assess the potential for technology synergies."

"We are very pleased to have the opportunity to evaluate synergies between our DPX platform and Sona's THT and GNR technologies, as our collaboration is ideal for advancing the highly promising applications of our respective technologies," says Kenneth Kovan, President and Chief Operating Officer at BioVaxys. "With Sona's exciting study data and the clinical trial data we have with DPX it's conceivable that our collaboration could lead to a new and even better treatment for immunotherapy-resistant solid tumors."

The collaboration between BioVaxys and Sona will evaluate the immune stimulatory properties of DPX (without an antigen cargo) administered together with THT, as a characteristic of DPX is that it helps prime the innate immune system which in turn can activate and strengthen the adaptive immune response. The collaboration will also evaluate the combination use of THT together with a DPX formulation as a carrier for novel neoantigens expressed on the surface of tumor cells following immunotherapy, such as with THT. Neoantigens are unique proteins that are not present in healthy tissues that arise from changes in cancer cells and play a crucial role in stimulating anti-tumor immune response. Immunotherapy such as THT can trigger these tumor cell changes and the expression of neoantigens, so packaging a tumor neoantigen in DPX for presentation to the immune system is anticipated to accelerate THT's efficacy.

The research studies based on the BioVaxys and Sona technologies will be conducted at Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, under the direction of Sona's CMO, Carman Giacomantonio, MD MSc FRCSC, Division of General and Gastrointestinal Surgery, Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, and Barry Kennedy, PhD, of the Giacomantonio Immuno-Oncology Research Group at Dalhousie University (the "Principal Investigators").

Each company will contribute their respective technologies for the study with the research costs covered by the Giacomantonio Immuno-Oncology Research Group. Any novel candidate therapeutic developed in this program will be co-owned and co-prosecuted by BioVaxys and Sona, with the parties planning to enter into a commercialization agreement for a vaccine clinical candidate prior to the initiation of any Phase 1 study.

Sona's current focus for advanced biomedical applications using its biocompatible GNR platform technology with its THT therapy aims to shrink cancerous tumors for certain solid cancers and in so doing trigger a systematic immune response to eliminate both treated and distant, untreated metastases. Sona's GNRs are uniquely manufactured without the use of CTAB (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide), eliminating the toxicity risks associated with the use of other GNR technologies in medical applications.

In a preclinical study presented at the 19th International Canadian Melanoma Conference in Vancouver this past February, Sona's research team confirmed that its GNR-based THT causes cancer-specific cell death that activates a strong immune response by the body's immune system. Of critical importance is evidence that the immunity generated by Sona's THT is observed in cancers that are known to be resistant to modern immunotherapies. Using an industry standard, immunotherapy resistant, CT-26 colon cancer model, Sona's THT activated systemic immunity that, when followed by previously ineffective PD-1 inhibition, demonstrated a 100% response rate in these previously resistant tumors. These findings were published in Frontiers in Immunology and repeated in industry standard preclinical breast cancer and melanoma models.

BioVaxys' DPX technology is a patented delivery platform that can incorporate a range of bioactive molecules, such as mRNA/polynucleotides, peptides/proteins, virus-like particles, and small molecules, to produce targeted, long-lasting immune responses enabled by various formulated components. The DPX platform, which is non-aqueous and non-systemic, facilitates antigen delivery to regional lymph nodes and has been demonstrated to induce robust and durable T cell and B cell responses in pre-clinical and clinical studies for both cancer and infectious disease. The DPX platform has been proven in multiple Phase 1 and Phase 2 clinical studies across a range of different antigens in oncology and infectious disease applications, and has demonstrated excellent safety and tolerability.

A study conducted by Hakimeh Ebrahimi-Nik, DVM, PhD, of The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center and Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, and presented December by BioVaxys at the Personalized Cancer Vaccine Summit in Boston, compared the immune-stimulating properties of the most commonly used vaccine adjuvants that are frequently given together with cancer immunotherapies to boost their efficacy, against DPX antigen formulations as well as DPX administered just on its own. The DPX formulations were shown to be more effective than any of the popular adjuvants, as effective as the gold standard---bone marrow-derived dendritic cells---and DPX on its own appeared to have meaningful immune stimulating properties.

About BioVaxys Technology Corp.

BioVaxys Technology Corp. (www.biovaxys.com) is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to improving patient lives with novel immunotherapies based on its DPX immune-educating technology platform and its HapTenix 'neoantigen' tumor cell construct platform, for treating cancers, infectious disease, antigen desensitization for food allergy, and other immunological diseases. Through a differentiated mechanism of action, the DPX platform delivers instruction to the immune system to generate a specific, robust, and persistent immune response. The Company's clinical stage pipeline includes maveropepimut-S (MVP-S), based on the DPX platform, and is in Phase IIB clinical development for advanced Relapsed-Refractory Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) and platinum resistant Ovarian Cancer. MVP-S delivers antigenic peptides from survivin, a well-recognized cancer antigen commonly overexpressed in advanced cancers, and also delivers an innate immune activator and a universal CD4 T cell helper peptide. MVP-S has been well tolerated and has demonstrated defined clinical benefit in multiple cancer indications as well as the activation of a targeted and sustained, survivin-specific anti-tumor immune response. BioVaxys is also developing DPX+SurMAGE, a dual-targeted immunotherapy combining antigenic peptides for both the survivin and MAGE-A9 cancer proteins to elicit immune responses to these two distinct cancer antigens simultaneously, DPX-RSV for Respiratory Syncytial Virus, DPX+rPA for peanut allergy prophylaxis, and BVX-0918, a personalized immunotherapeutic vaccine using its proprietary HapTenix 'neoantigen' tumor cell construct platform for refractive late-stage ovarian cancer. BioVaxys common shares are listed on the CSE under the stock symbol 'BIOV', trade on the Frankfurt Bourse (FSE: 5LB), and in the US (OTCQB: BVAXF). For more information, visit www.biovaxys.com and connect with us on X and LinkedIn.

BIOVAXYS TECHNOLOGY CORP. CONTACT:

James Passin, CEO

Phone: +1 740 358 0555

About Sona Nanotech Inc.

Sona Nanotech is developing Targeted Hyperthermia, a photothermal cancer therapy, which uses therapeutic heat to treat solid cancer tumors. The heat is delivered to tumors by infrared light that is absorbed by Sona's gold nanorods in the tumor and re-emitted as heat. Therapeutic heat (42-48C) stimulates the immune system, shrinks tumors, inactivates cancer stem cells, and increases tumor perfusion - thus enabling drugs to reach all tumor compartments more effectively. Targeted Hyperthermia promises to be safe, effective, minimally invasive, competitive in cost, and a valuable adjunct to drug therapy and other cancer treatments.

Sona has developed multiple proprietary methods for the manufacture of gold nanoparticles which it uses for the development of both cancer therapies and diagnostic testing platforms. Sona Nanotech's gold nanorod particles are cetyltrimethylammonium ("CTAB") free, eliminating the toxicity risks associated with the use of other gold nanorod technologies in medical applications.

Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation including the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, without limitation, statements relating the future operating or financial performance of the Company, are forward looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible", and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will", "may", "could", or "should" occur or be achieved, and include statements about the potential benefits of combining the technologies of each company and the potential for future clinical studies. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements.

These forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates, primarily the assumption that BioVaxys and Sona will be successful in developing and testing vaccines, that, while considered reasonable by the Companies, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies including, primarily but without limitation, the risk that BioVaxys' or Sona's vaccines will not prove to be effective and/ or will not receive the required regulatory approvals. With regards to BioVaxys' and Sona's respective businesses, there are a number of risks that could affect the development of their biotechnology products, including, without limitation, the need for additional capital to fund clinical trials, their lack of operating history, uncertainty about whether their products will complete the long, complex and expensive clinical trial and regulatory approval process for approval of new drugs necessary for marketing approval, uncertainty about whether BioVaxys' autologous cell vaccine immunotherapy can be developed to produce safe and effective products and, if so, whether its vaccine products will be commercially accepted and profitable, the expenses, delays and uncertainties and complications typically encountered by development stage biopharmaceutical businesses, financial and development obligations under license arrangements in order to protect its rights to its products and technologies, obtaining and protecting new intellectual property rights and avoiding infringement to third parties and their dependence on manufacturing by third parties.

The parties do not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law.

Investors are encouraged to read BioVaxys and Sona continuous disclosure documents and audited annual consolidated financial statements which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States



To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251112

SOURCE: Sona Nanotech Inc.
Regulatory News:

Medincell's partner Teva Pharmaceuticals shared today the following information:

About UZEDY

1-Month and 2-Month subcutaneous risperidone for schizophrenia

Commercialized in the U.S. since May 2023

2024 sales: $117 million,

Q1 2025 sales: $39 million, 2.6x increase compared to Q1 2024

Continuous growth of prescription: 2.8x increase compared to Q1 2024

Medincell receives mid- to high-single digit royalties on all sales and is eligible for $105 million of commercial milestones.

About Olanzapine Long-Acting Injectable (TEV-749 mdc-TJK)

1-Month subcutaneous olanzapine, the most prescribed antipsychotic for schizophrenia in the U.S.

Pivotal Phase 3 completed in January 2025 with positive Phase 3 efficacy results1 and no PDSS2

Preparation for filing and launch on track

Productive Pre-NDA3 meeting with FDA held on April 9, 2025

Safety data to be presented at Psych Congress Elevate, May 28-31, 2025, Las Vegas

NDA submission planned for H2 2025

Following an NDA submission, the FDA takes approximately 2 months to determine acceptance for review, followed by an additional 8 months for a standard review, which may lead to approval.

Teva Q1 2025 press release: https://ir.tevapharm.com/news-and-events/press-releases/press-release-details/2025/Teva-Reports-Ninth-Consecutive-Quarter-of-Growth-in-Q1-2025-With-Key-Innovative-Medicines-Growing-40-2025-Profit-Outlook-Improved/default.aspx

Teva Q1 2025 earnings conference call today at 8:00am ET, webcast and replay: https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/984311609

About Medincell

Medincell is a clinical- and commercial-stage biopharmaceutical licensing company developing long-acting injectable drugs in many therapeutic areas. Our innovative treatments aim to guarantee compliance with medical prescriptions, to improve the effectiveness and accessibility of medicines, and to reduce their environmental footprint. They combine active pharmaceutical ingredients with our proprietary BEPO technology which controls the delivery of a drug at a therapeutic level for several days, weeks or months from the subcutaneous or local injection of a simple deposit of a few millimeters, entirely bioresorbable. The first treatment based on BEPO technology, intended for the treatment of schizophrenia, was approved by the FDA in April 2023, and is now distributed in the United States by Teva under the name UZEDY (BEPO technology is licensed to Teva under the name SteadyTeq). We collaborate with leading pharmaceutical companies and foundations to improve global health through new treatment options. Based in Montpellier, Medincell currently employs more than 140 people representing more than 25 different nationalities.

UZEDY and SteadyTeq are trademarks of Teva Pharmaceuticals

medincell.com

This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding Company's expectations for (i) the timing, progress and outcome of its clinical trials; (ii) the clinical benefits and competitive positioning of its product candidates; (iii) its ability to obtain regulatory approvals, commence commercial production and achieve market penetration and sales; (iv) its future product portfolio; (v) its future partnering arrangements; (vi) its future capital needs, capital expenditure plans and ability to obtain funding; and (vii) prospective financial matters regarding our business. Although the Company believes that its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, any statements other than statements of historical facts that may be contained in this press release relating to future events are forward-looking statements and subject to change without notice, factors beyond the Company's control and the Company's financial capabilities.

These statements may include, but are not limited to, any statement beginning with, followed by or including words or phrases such as "objective", "believe", "anticipate", "expect", "foresee", "aim", "intend", "may", "anticipate", "estimate", "plan", "project", "will", "may", "probably", "potential", "should", "could" and other words and phrases of the same meaning or used in negative form. Forward-looking statements are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties beyond the Company's control that may, if any, cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from those anticipated or expressed explicitly or implicitly by such forward-looking statements. A list and description of these risks, contingencies and uncertainties can be found in the documents filed by the Company with the Autorite des Marches Financiers (the "AMF") pursuant to its regulatory obligations, including the Company's registration document, registered with the AMF on September 4, 2018, under number I. 18-062 (the "Registration Document"), as well as in the documents and reports to be published subsequently by the Company. In particular, readers' attention is drawn to the section entitled "Facteurs de Risques" on page 26 of the Registration Document.

Any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of the Company speak only as of the date they are made. Except as required by law, the Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update these forward-looking statements or to update the reasons why actual results could differ materially from those anticipated by the forward-looking statements, including in the event that new information becomes available. The Company's update of one or more forward-looking statements does not imply that the Company will make any further updates to such forward-looking statements or other forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

This press release is for information purposes only. The information contained herein does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or subscribe for the Company's shares in any jurisdiction, in particular in France. Similarly, this press release does not constitute investment advice and should not be treated as such. It is not related to the investment objectives, financial situation, or specific needs of any recipient. It should not deprive the recipients of the opportunity to exercise their own judgment. All opinions expressed in this document are subject to change without notice. The distribution of this press release may be subject to legal restrictions in certain jurisdictions.

1 Press Release, May 8, 2024: https://www.medincell.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/PR_Solaris_08052024_EN_Final.pdf

2 Post-Injection Delirium/Sedation Syndrome (PDSS) is a rare but significant complication associated with existing long-acting injectable formulation of olanzapine. PDSS occurs when a portion of the injected medication unintentionally enters the bloodstream too quickly, causing sudden sedation, confusion, and potentially serious side effects such as respiratory issues. For healthcare providers and patients, PDSS remains a barrier to the widespread use of olanzapine LAI. The requirement for close post-injection monitoring limits the convenience and flexibility of this treatment option. Medincell's olanzapine LAI is designed to eliminate the risk of PDSS, potentially making it a safer and more accessible treatment option. Press release, Nov. 6, 2024: https://www.medincell.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/PR_MDC_Teva-earnings-Q3_2024_06112024.pdf

3 NDA (New Drug Application): Formal request for approval to market a new pharmaceutical product, containing detailed data on its safety, efficacy, manufacturing, and labeling

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250507022665/en/

Contacts:

David Heuze

Head of Corporate and Financial Communications, and ESG

david.heuze@Medincell.com +33 (0)6 83 25 21 86



Grace Kim

Chief Strategy Officer, U.S. Finance

grace.kim@Medincell.com +1 (646) 991-4023



Nicolas Merigeau/ Arthur Rouille

Media Relations

Medincell@newcap.eu +33 (0)1 44 71 94 94



Louis-Victor Delouvrier/Alban Dufumier

Investor Relations France

Medincell@newcap.eu +33 (0)1 44 71 94 94
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Minnova Corp. (TSXV: MCI) (OTC Pink: AGRDF) ("Minnova" or the "Company"), is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement financing for gross proceeds of up to $800,000 through the issuance of up to 16,000,000 units (the "Units") at a price of $0.05 per Unit (the "Offering").

Each Unit is comprised of one common share of the Company (each, a "Common Share") and one-half of one whole Common Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant") of the Company. Each Warrant entitling the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share at a price of $0.10 per Common Share for a period of two (2) years from the date of issuance, provided, however, that should the closing price at which the Common Shares trade on the TSX Venture Exchange (or any such other stock exchange in Canada as the Common Shares may trade at the applicable time) exceed $0.20 for twenty (20) consecutive trading days at any time following the date that is four months and one day after the date of issuance, the Company may accelerate the Warrant term (the "Reduced Warrant Term") such that the Warrants shall expire on the date which is 30 business days following the date a press release is issued by the Company announcing the Reduced Warrant Term.

Gross proceeds raised from the Offering will be used for the Company's PL Mine including; permitting, resource expansion and exploration drill program planning, as well as for general working capital purposes.

Closing of the Offering is subject to receipt of all necessary corporate and regulatory approvals, including the approval of TSX Venture Exchange. All securities issued in connection with the Offering will be subject to a hold period of four months plus a day from the date of issuance and the resale rules of applicable securities legislation.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons as defined under applicable United States securities laws unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

About Minnova Corp.

Minnova Corp. is focused on the restart of its PL Gold Mine, which included completion of a Positive Feasibility Study in 2018. The study concluded the restart of the PL Mine, at an average annual production rate of 46,493 ounces over a minimum 5-year mine life, was economically robust. Importantly the global resource remains open to expansion, as does the reserve. The PL Gold Mine benefits from a short pre-production timeline forecast at 15 months, a valid underground mining permit (Environment Act 1207E), an existing 1,000 tpd processing plant, over 7,000 meters of developed underground ramp to -135 metres depth. The project is fully road accessible and close to existing mining infrastructure in the prolific Flin Flon Greenstone Belt of Central Manitoba.

For more information please contact:

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 release.

This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "would", "potential", "proposed" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. These statements are only predictions. Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the information is provided, and is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change, unless required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

Not for distribution to U.S. Newswire Services or for dissemination in the United States. Any failure to comply with this restriction may constitute a violation of U.S. Securities laws.

NOT FOR DISSEMINATION INTO THE UNITED STATES

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251113

SOURCE: Minnova Corp.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - PureWave Hydrogen Corp. (TSXV: PWH) ("PureWave" or the "Company"), is pleased to comment on the recent announcement by HyTerra Limited regarding its Sue Duroche 3 well, located within the Nemaha Project in northeastern Kansas, that reported hydrogen concentrations of up to 96.1% from air-corrected mud gas samples.

The confirmation of high-purity natural hydrogen in the subsurface validates historical data from the nearby Sue Duroche 2 well and marks a major step forward for the geologic hydrogen sector. PureWave commends the preliminary technical success of HyTerra's drilling and analysis program, which validates the emerging presence and potential of the Mid-Continent Rift region as a globally significant natural hydrogen fairway.

PureWave Hydrogen holds an acreage position adjacent to the Nemaha Ridge, where it continues to extend and advance its geological mapping, technical analysis, and exploration planning across its portfolio. The Company's land position is along trend and includes areas that are geologically analogous to HyTerra's discovery well, particularly in regions of Pre-Cambrian basement uplift and fracturing-key indicators for natural hydrogen migration and accumulation.

"HyTerra's confirmation of 96% hydrogen content is a pivotal moment for the emerging white hydrogen industry," said Greg Busby, CEO & President of PureWave Hydrogen. "We believe the Nemaha Ridge and broader Mid-Continent Rift system has the potential to become one of the largest and most accessible natural hydrogen plays in North America. PureWave's strategic acreage in the area positions us to benefit from these ongoing developments and exploration successes."

PureWave Hydrogen remains committed to advancing its exploration activities and engaging with regional and scientific partners to further de-risk its Kansas portfolio. The Company continues to evaluate both drilling opportunities and potential strategic partnerships as it works to unlock the commercial potential of naturally occurring hydrogen.

About PureWave Hydrogen Corp.

PureWave Hydrogen is an evolving junior oil and gas company with the potential of exploration and development of naturally occurring "white hydrogen" resources in the United States and Canada.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of PureWave Hydrogen Corp.,

"Bruce Nurse"

Bruce Nurse, Director

Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains "forward-looking statements or information". Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as: anticipate, intend, plan, goal, seek, believe, project, estimate, expect, strategy, future, likely, may, should, will and similar references to future periods.

Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy 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 and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. The Company may not actually achieve its plans, projections, or expectations. The forward-looking statements and information are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the Company. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: the Company's discovery and development of white (natural) hydrogen resources across North America, the adequacy of our cash flow and earnings, the availability of future financing and/or credit, developments and changes in laws and regulations, consumer sentiment towards the Company's products, failure of counterparties to perform their contractual obligations, government regulations, competition, loss of key employees and consultants, and general economic, market or business conditions, the impact of technology and social changes on the products and industry, as well as those risk factors discussed or referred to in disclosure documents filed by the Company with the securities regulatory authorities in certain provinces of Canada and available on the Company's issuer profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Given these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

Any forward-looking statement made by us in this press release is based only on information currently available to us and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Except as required by applicable securities laws, we undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

TSXV has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Neither the TSXV nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251094

SOURCE: PureWave Hydrogen Corp.
China decides to agree to engage with US for talk: MOFCOM

Global Times) 10:22, May 07, 2025

Recently, US senior officials frequently released signals to adjust tariffs and actively sent information to the Chinese side through multiple channels, expressing intention to start talk on tariff-related issues with China. The Chinese side has conducted careful evaluation of these communications. With full consideration of the expectations across the world, the interests of the Chinese side, and the call from US business community and consumers, the Chinese side decides to agree to engage with the US side, a spokesperson of China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) said on Wednesday.

The MOFCOM spokesperson made the remarks after the Foreign Ministry announced on the same day that at the invitation of the government of Switzerland, from May 9 to 12, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council He Lifeng will visit Switzerland. During his visit to Switzerland, Vice Premier He, as the Chinese lead person for China-US economic and trade affairs, will have a meeting with the US lead person Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, according to the Foreign Ministry.

Since the inauguration of the new US administration, they have taken a series of unilateral and unreasonable tariff measures. These moves have severely disrupted China-US economic and trade relations, destabilized international economic and trade order, and posed grave challenges to global economic recovery and growth. To safeguard its legitimate rights and interests, China has adopted firm and resolute countermeasures, the MOFCOM spokesperson said.

China's position is consistent. Whether it is confrontation or negotiation, China's resolve to safeguard its development interests will never waver, neither will its stance and objectives in upholding international fairness and justice and the global economic and trade order. We will fight if we must. Our doors are open, if the US wants to talk. Dialogue and negotiation must be based on equality, respect and mutual benefit, the spokesperson continued.

As an old Chinese saying goes, "listen to what someone says and watch what they do." If the US seeks to resolve issues through negotiation, it must face squarely the severe negative impacts of its unilateral tariffs on itself and the world, face up to international economic and trade rules, fairness, justice, and the rational voices across sectors, demonstrate sincerity for talks, correct its erroneous practices, and meet halfway with China to address mutual concerns through equal consultations, the spokesperson said.

"If the US says one thing but does another, or even attempts to use talks as a pretext to continue coercion and blackmail, China will never accept it. Nor will China compromise its principles and stance or sacrifice international fairness and justice to reach any agreement," the spokesperson stressed.

The Chinese side has noticed that some economies are currently engaging in negotiations with the US. The spokesperson emphasized that appeasement does not bring peace, compromise does not lead to respect, while only by upholding principles and position and fairness can a nation safeguard its legitimate interests.

No matter how international landscape may evolve, China will remain steadfast in expanding opening-up, safeguarding the WTO-centered multilateral trading system, and sharing development opportunities with the rest of the world. China stands ready to work with all parties to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, enhance coordination, jointly resist unilateral protectionism and hegemonic and bullying practices, jointly defend free trade and multilateralism, and promote an inclusive and equitable economic globalization, the spokesperson said.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
In a highly-anticipated meeting at the Oval Office with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, President Donald Trump doubled down on his suggestion that Canada should become the 51st state, calling it a "wonderful marriage" that would provide Canadians with tax cuts and military protection but acknowledging that it is not solely his decision to make.

"It takes two to tango," said Trump when asked about his past comments. "But we're not going to be discussing that unless someone wants to discuss it." The president has encouraged Canada to become "our Cherished 51st State" in several occasions in the past, going as far as to refer to the ex Primer Minister Justin Trudeau as "Governor Trudeau."

REPORTER: You have said Canada should becoming the 51st state



TRUMP: I still believe that. But it takes two to tango. pic.twitter.com/rWbvq2bhPK  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) May 6, 2025

Primer Minister Carney, however, was quick to offer his response to Trump's comments just moments later, making his government's position clear:

"As you know from real estate, there are some places that are never for sale. We're sitting in one now... Having met with the owners of Canada during that last several months. It's not for sale. It won't be for sale ever"

Carney added that there are opportunities for a good partnership between both goverments and that he's looking forward to what they can build together.

Carney to Trump: "There are some places that are never for sale ... having met with the owners of Canada over the course of the campaign, it's not for sale. It won't be for sale ever." pic.twitter.com/B9zVjwGPa7  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) May 6, 2025

Just minutes before the meeting, Trump posted on Truth Social that he looked forward to meeting Carney but claimed the U.S. gives Canada "too much support" and receives "nothing" in returnexcept "friendship, which hopefully we will always maintain."

Carney, on his end, approached the meeting with cautious resolve, as The Washington Post pointed out. Ahead of the visit, Carney stated that both countries' relationship "based on steadily increasing integration, is over and that his government would fight to get the best deal for Canada.

"In parallel, we will strengthen our relationships with reliable trading partners and allies," implying that Washington no longer fit that description. "I am not pretending those discussions will be easy," Carney before the meeting with Trump.

Originally published on Latin Times
From TikTok to Your Doorstep: Discover the Most Coveted K-Beauty Brands Blowing Up in Ireland

DUBLIN, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SkinShop.ie, the brainchild of Irish sisters Emma and Anna Gunning, has rapidly become Ireland's largest stockist of Korean beauty and skincare products. Established in 2017, this Irish-owned online destination has evolved into the go-to platform for beauty lovers seeking the most effective and innovative K-Beauty formulas. With accessible pricing and an expert-led edit, SkinShop.ie brings the best of Korean skincare to Irish shelves - thoughtfully selected and trusted to perform.

Among the first to introduce Korean skincare to the Irish market, SkinShop.ie recognised the potential of K-Beauty long before it became a viral phenomenon. Having built an extensive offering over the past two years, the brand now boasts the largest selection of Korean skincare in Ireland - stocking some of the most sought-after names in the industry, including Medicube, Skin1004, Anua, Beauty of Joseon, Biodance, HaruHaru Wonder and Dr. Althea - with more exciting brand launches on the horizon.

Earlier this year, Managing Director Emma Gunning and Buyer Emma Gibson attended Cosmoprof Worldwide Bologna, the world's leading beauty trade show, to meet directly with their key K-Beauty partners and explore the next wave of skincare innovation for SkinShop. This annual industry event brings together the most influential brands and trendsetters in global beauty - and SkinShop.ie was there to stay ahead of what's coming next.

"We're constantly searching for what's next in skincare," said Emma Gunning. "Being at Cosmoprof gave us the chance to build even closer relationships with our K-Beauty brands, discover up-and-coming innovations and ensure we're bringing back the best of what's happening globally - right to our customers' doorsteps."

Korean skincare has moved from cult status to global must-have, and Ireland is fully embracing the shift. With its focus on skin health, gentle yet powerful formulations and ingredient innovation, K-Beauty continues to win fans across every skin type and age group. Brands like Medicube, Beauty of Joseon and Biodance are leading the charge - with millions of views on TikTok and glowing reviews to match.

"Every brand we bring in has to earn its place - I test everything myself," said Emma Gibson, Beauty Buyer at SkinShop.ie. "Customers today are incredibly informed. They want skincare that's effective, ingredient-conscious and thoughtfully formulated. K-Beauty delivers all of that - with results you can actually see."

In addition to its expansive K-Beauty collection, SkinShop.ie is also home to some of the most respected skincare brands in the world. From SkinCeuticals, IMAGE Skincare and Obagi, to Medik8 and the newly added Omnilux LED Masks, the site offers a carefully curated edit for every skin concern and goal - whether you're looking for innovative Korean formulas or trusted clinical results.

For more information, visit SkinShop.ie

Press Assets:

Google Drive (Images & Press Materials): Click here

Brochure: Korean Beauty at SkinShop.ie (Issuu)

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/skinshopie-takes-ireland-by-storm-as-the-ultimate-destination-for-korean-beauty-and-skincare-302448669.html
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 / By Catharine Grimes, President of the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation

We are in an era of unprecedented medical innovation. Scientists are making remarkable progress to diagnose and treat diseases, bringing new hope to patients across the world. Unfortunately, these breakthroughs fail to reach everyone due to barriers to care.

The Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation (BMS Foundation), an independent charitable organization, is committed to changing that. Building on our legacy of expanding access to healthcare, we've launched a new strategic framework to strengthen sustainable health service delivery for regions of the world that are medically underserved and heavily burdened. We have zeroed in on four areas to meet critical needs: Adult Cancers; Pediatric Cancers and Blood Disorders; Excellence in Clinical Trials; and Neuropsychiatry.

As we strive to improve health outcomes, building local healthcare capacity is the foundation of our strategy. We do that by forging partnerships with community-based groups, public institutions, and other local stakeholders. Here is a snapshot of how the BMS Foundation is translating our strategy into lasting impact in each of our focus areas:

Accelerating Early Detection of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death, but early detection can dramatically improve survival rates. The BMS Foundation's Multinational Lung Cancer Control Program (MLCCP) builds on over a decade of work in the U.S. to strengthen local healthcare system capacity and scale community-based screening.

The Quality Implementation of Lung Cancer Screening (QUILS) program through the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center and the University of Colorado Cancer Center is a testament to the power of this approach. QUILS empowers Kentucky healthcare providers to better evaluate high-risk patients and educates communities about the importance of early detection. In just ten years, QUILS has transformed Kentucky's lung cancer screening rate from among the lowest nationwide to the second highest, driving a remarkable 10% decline in late-stage diagnoses.

Guided by our success in Kentucky, we recently expanded the program into Mississippi and Nevada. By improving access to lung cancer screenings in these heavily burdened regions, we have an opportunity to transform health outcomes and save lives.

Boosting Local Capacity to Combat Pediatric Diseases

The second pillar of the BMS Foundation's strategy - addressing pediatric cancers and blood disorders - has roots in our decadeslong efforts to support children in sub-Saharan Africa. Alongside partners, we mobilized at the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic to train tens of thousands of healthcare workers and improve health outcomes.

In 2016, these joint efforts evolved into a new program, Global HOPE, to address staggering mortality rates for pediatric cancer and blood disorders in the region. Since then, Texas Children's Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine Global Health, with our support, have trained more than 7,000 healthcare workers - including 35 of the first hematology-oncology specialists on the continent - and provided care to more than 26,000 children.

The next phase of our pediatric work in sub-Saharan Africa will combat another threat: sickle cell disease (SCD), which is responsible for over 500 daily child deaths in the region. Simple life-saving interventions can treat SCD, but access to care is virtually nonexistent in non-urban areas. Leveraging the local infrastructure we have helped build for over 25 years, our new initiative is equipping local health systems and integrating SCD interventions into local primary care systems.

Transforming the Clinical Trial Landscape to Improve Health Outcomes

Clinical trials are crucial in enabling new treatment options for patients. To ensure everyone can benefit from therapeutic breakthroughs and to avoid misdiagnosis and mistreatment, it is essential that patients enrolled in these trials be representative of the epidemiology of the disease being studied. However, that is too often not the case.

The BMS Foundation-established Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials Award Program (Winn Awards) is working to address that discrepancy, training the next generation of clinical trialists in high quality clinical trials and community engagement. Through these efforts, the Winn Awards program is working to improve participation in clinical trials to drive better health outcomes for all communities.

Opening New Pathways for Critical Mental Health Services

The rate of Serious Mental Illness (SMI) in the U.S. is significantly higher in jail and prison than in the general population, with 44% of people in jail and 37% of incarcerated individuals living with mental illness. Almost half of Americans with SMI and co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders have had contact with the criminal justice system.

Mental health diversion programs are a promising alternative to direct patients away from the criminal justice system and toward community-based mental health services. There is tremendous opportunity to expand the capacity of diversion programs across the country - and that's exactly what the BMS Foundation's newly launched program area will help facilitate. We will be supporting innovative community-based programs that can open new pathways to care and deliver better health outcomes for people with SMI.

Expanding Access to Care to Improve Global Health

At the BMS Foundation, we believe a healthier world is attainable and achievable. But access to care remains unequal. We must create more sustainable systems of health service delivery to eliminate barriers to care.

As we embark on our next chapter, our evolved strategy is designed to transform how care is delivered for areas that are medically underserved and heavily burdened by disease. Driven by a commitment to create lasting impact in the communities we serve and bolstered by robust partnerships, we are determined to bridge gaps in care and drive positive health outcomes for people in need of support - today and for years to come.

To learn more, visit the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation online.

Catharine Grimes, President of the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation. Photos Courtesy of Texas Children's Hospital.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Bristol-Myers Squibb Company on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Bristol-Myers Squibb Company

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/bristol-myers-squibb-company

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Bristol-Myers Squibb Company

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/healthcare-and-pharmaceutical/improving-access-to-care-by-strengthening-local-health-system-capacit-1024706
Steve Gosling of Cheer Pack North America Named First Recipient of Annual Award

BIRMINGHAM, MI / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 / Packaging Strategies and Global Pouch Forum are pleased to announce that Steve Gosling, president of Cheer Pack North America (N.A.), is the inaugural recipient of the Steve Fairfield Memorial Award for Flexible Packaging Innovation. Packaging Strategies will present the award during the 2025 Global Pouch Forum, taking place June 18-20 in Clearwater, FL.

The new Steve Fairfield Memorial Award for Flexible Packaging Innovation, sponsored by Skjodt-Barrett Foods, annually honors a top innovator in flexible packaging. BNP Media will present the award at its 2025 Global Pouch Forum event during a special keynote session featuring leadership from Cheer Pack N.A. and Skjodt-Barrett Foods. The session will highlight Gosling's innovations in pouch packaging through the years, including his collaborations with Steve Fairfield, namesake of the award. Gosling and his innovative work will also serve as the basis for a special feature in the August 2025 issue of the Packaging Strategies eMagazine.

"We are deeply honored that BNP Media and Skjodt-Barrett Foods have selected Steve Gosling, Cheer Pack North America visionary, as the inaugural recipient of the Steve Fairfield Memorial Award for Flexible Packaging Innovation," said Jeff Ward, CEO, Cheer Pack N.A.

"We received several outstanding nominations for our first year of this wonderful new award. However, naming Steve Gosling the first recipient of this annual award was a natural, ideal choice, given his pioneering work alongside Steve Fairfield in broadly commercializing spouted pouch packaging," said Douglas J. Peckenpaugh, publisher and business leader of The Packaging Group at BNP Media.

"Steve Fairfield brought a unique mix of creativity and determination to the monumental task of convincing longstanding, glass-packing brand owners to make a change with the flexible pouch," said Dan Skjodt, founder, Skjodt-Barrett Foods. "His sincere and good-humored approach to everything he did was an irresistible combination for success, and our ability to push the boundaries of what was possible in food packaging. Steve's leadership at Skjodt-Barrett left a lasting impact-not just on the new products we are able to bring to market, but on the people he associated with every day."

Steve Fairfield was a flexible packaging innovator who left an indelible mark on the baby food and fruit puree industries. His entrepreneurial and visionary contributions helped reshape the flexible pouch landscape. Steve's passion and innovation were instrumental in the early adoption of spouted, stand-up pouches by leading global brands in the industry. This packaging format is now ubiquitous within the baby food and fruit snack categories. Steve Fairfield passed away in May 2024, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire industry innovators for generations.

"At Cheer Pack North America, we believe Steve Fairfield's impact fundamentally reshaped the flexible pouch landscape," said Ward. "His collaboration with Steve Gosling, beginning in 2008, marked the inception of the flexible stand-up spouted pouch and cap industry in North America. Together, their pioneering efforts introduced a groundbreaking packaging format-one that revolutionized product delivery and helped build a packaging industry now valued at over $250 million in annual sales."

Steve Fairfield had an unmatched passion for life and an extraordinary ability to bring joy to everyone around him, continued Ward. "What's even more remarkable is that through shared innovation and unwavering determination, the two Steves brought smiles and convenience to millions of consumers-a legacy that continues to grow. We extend our warmest congratulations to Steve Gosling on this well-deserved recognition. There could be no more fitting recipient-someone whom Steve Fairfield himself would have been proud to honor. Congratulations to both Steves for shaping an industry and enriching lives everywhere."

To learn more and register for the 2025 Global Pouch Forum, visit GlobalPouchForum.com.

About Global Pouch Forum

Global Pouch Forum, organized by The Packaging Group at BNP Media (www.bnpmedia.com), launched in 1997, with the foresight that the flexible pouch would become a dominant force in packaging. Now, after 28 years of expertise and innovation, Global Pouch Forum remains the go-to event to get the most up-to-date information from experts and to network with leaders and innovators who develop, supply, buy, or recommend flexible materials, including pouches, films, and machinery. This annual event is the gateway to current and emerging innovation in the flexible packaging market, including the ever-growing opportunities for using pouch packaging for food, beverage, personal care, beauty, household, healthcare, medical, and other consumer packaged goods (CPGs).

About Skjodt-Barrett Foods

Since 1985, Skjodt-Barrett Foods has had the honor and privilege of partnering with North America's most-beloved food brands as a leading provider of custom ingredients and contract manufacturing. With industry-leading facilities in Lebanon, IN, and Brampton, Ontario, its custom ingredient and contract-manufacturing teams help create enriching food experiences that can inspire generations to come.

About Cheer Pack North America

Cheer Pack North America (N.A.) is a leading manufacturer of spouted flexible pouch and cap packaging in North America. The company, located in West Bridgewater, MA, is a fully integrated supplier of "Made in USA" standard and custom injection molded parts, flexible flat and spouted pouches, and strategic partner with leading spouted pouch filling equipment suppliers.

For further information, contact:

Douglas Peckenpaugh, Group Publisher, BNP Media

847-770-5916

peckenpaughd@bnpmedia.com

SOURCE: BNP Media

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/publishing-and-media/announcing-the-inaugural-recipient-of-the-steve-fairfield-memorial-award-for-f-1023393
Sustainable 10.3% CAGR Reflects Industry-Wide Investment in Digital Commerce, Customer Experience, and Data-Driven Operations

MIDDLETON, Mass., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- QKS Group, a premier market intelligence and advisory firm, has released its latest vertical-specific research highlighting the expanding role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the Retail industry, forecasting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.3% through 2030. This focused analysis provides strategic insights for technology vendors supporting retail's evolution into a connected, omnichannel, and experience-driven industry.

The Next Growth Frontier for ICT Vendors in Retail

Retailers worldwide are undergoing a massive technology transformation to meet the expectations of digitally empowered consumers. ICT domains - such as CX & MarTech, Commerce Platforms, Analytics & AI, Communication & Collaboration, Supply Chain Management, and Cloud & Application Development - are being rapidly adopted to enhance customer experiences, optimize operations, enable hyper-personalization, and ensure inventory agility across physical and digital channels. From ecommerce platforms and POS modernization to AI-based product recommendations and predictive supply chains, ICT adoption is now a strategic imperative for retail success.

According to Umang Thakur, Vice President - Research & Principal Analyst at QKS Group, "Retailers are no longer just sellers - they are digital ecosystems. ICT solutions are enabling seamless omnichannel journeys, real-time personalization, and operational efficiency. Vendors that deliver scalable, intelligent, and integrated technologies will define the next generation of retail growth."

Key Market Insights from QKS Group's Report

Global and Regional Market Analysis: A deep dive into how ICT domains for the Retail industry and specific regions are reshaping operations, including digital commerce growth patterns, ecosystem maturity, and regional innovation hubs.

A deep dive into how ICT domains for the Retail industry and specific regions are reshaping operations, including digital commerce growth patterns, ecosystem maturity, and regional innovation hubs. Competitive Benchmarking: A comparative view of leading ICT vendors active in the retail space, highlighting strategic focus, product integration, and market presence across key geographies.

A comparative view of leading ICT vendors active in the retail space, highlighting strategic focus, product integration, and market presence across key geographies. Industry Adoption Trends: Detailed coverage of how retail brands are adopting technologies across store operations, online engagement, logistics, and customer service, and what's driving investment decisions.

Detailed coverage of how retail brands are adopting technologies across store operations, online engagement, logistics, and customer service, and what's driving investment decisions. Technology Disruption & AI's Role: How artificial intelligence, data platforms, and cloud-native commerce engines are transforming retail operations, enabling dynamic pricing, inventory forecasting, customer targeting, and loyalty innovation.

Market Leaders & Competitive Landscape

The report includes top ICT vendors enabling digital transformation in the Retail industry, including Salesforce, Adobe, SAP, Oracle, Microsoft, Google Cloud, AWS, Shopify, Salesforce Commerce Cloud, IBM, Infosys, Zebra Technologies, Manhattan Associates, Sprinklr, Algolia, BigCommerce, Sitecore, Snowflake, Zoho, and Medallia.

Become a client and Explore the Opportunities in Retail Sector: https://qksgroup.com/become-client

Why This Matters for Retail Sector Vendors?

For business leaders shaping the future of retail, these insights offer a critical lens into how ICT is redefining consumer engagement, fulfillment models, and operational intelligence. As the industry shifts toward seamless omnichannel ecosystems, ICT vendors must provide platforms that support agile merchandising, real-time analytics, last-mile efficiency, and immersive digital experiences. Long-term value will be driven by innovation, scalability, and the ability to personalize at scale across regions.

Get Access to Exclusive Market Insights (single report or subscription offering)

The comprehensive research package includes:

Most Comprehensive Market Forecast Analysis: A separate market forecast report for each region for a specific market in ICT in the Retail industry, including North America, Asia Pacific, European Union, MEA, and Latin America.

A separate market forecast report for each region for a specific market in ICT in the Retail industry, including North America, Asia Pacific, European Union, MEA, and Latin America. Unmatched Competitive Analysis: A separate market share report for a specific market in ICT in the Retail industry for each of the regions, including North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, MEA, and Latin America.

A separate market share report for a specific market in ICT in the Retail industry for each of the regions, including North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, MEA, and Latin America. QKS TrendsNXT on the specific market in ICT in the Retail industry

on the specific market in ICT in the Retail industry QKS TAMSAM Insights report on the specific Market in ICT in the Retail industry

on the specific Market in ICT in the Retail industry Exclusive Analyst Advisory Sessions for strategic decision making and validation

Speak to Our Expert Analyst: https://qksgroup.com/analyst-briefing

About QKS Group?

QKS Group, formerly Quadrant Knowledge Solutions, is a leading global advisory and research firm, dedicated to empowering technology innovators to accelerate their growth journeys and enable technology adopters to achieve their digital transformation objectives.

To gain access to the full market insights, growth forecasts, and competitive analysis, Connect:

Shraddha Roy?

PR & Media Relations

QKS Group

Regus Business Center

35 Village Road, Suite 100,

Middleton Massachusetts?01949

United States

Email:?shraddha.r@qksgroup.com

Content Source: https://qksgroup.com/newsroom/ict-adoption-in-retail-sector-set-to-accelerate-projected-to-grow-at-10-3-cagr-by-2030-1096

Connect with us on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/qksgroup/

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2501519/QKS_Group_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/ict-adoption-in-retail-sector-set-to-accelerate-projected-to-grow-at-10-3-cagr-by-2030--302435759.html
Cushman Wakefield releases 2025 Global Data Center Market Comparison

Global Data Center markets are seeing surging demand due to relentless growth and expansion of cloud computing and AI workloads according to the latest report by Cushman Wakefield (NYSE: CWK). The report, which analyzes 97 global markets, highlights how power access, land acquisition, and infrastructure have emerged as critical variables shaping where and how data center facilities are being built.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250507978519/en/

Increase in total capacity across Americas, EMEA and APAC

"We expect total capacity to continue its incredible growth trajectory across all global regions, with each expected to at least double based on the current development pipelines," said John McWilliams, Head of Data Center Insights. "The industry experienced rapid expansion throughout the past year, a trend we expect to continue into 2025 and 2026. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), which gained prominence in 2022, are key drivers of this demand now and into the future."

Key trends include:

Land Demand and Suburban Shift: Larger site acquisitions for phased campus developments are becoming the norm, pushing data center projects away from urban cores and into suburban and rural areas. Virginia, Phoenix, and Sydney rank among the top markets for land availability, as developers prioritize locations that support scalability and power integration.

Larger site acquisitions for phased campus developments are becoming the norm, pushing data center projects away from urban cores and into suburban and rural areas. Virginia, Phoenix, and Sydney rank among the top markets for land availability, as developers prioritize locations that support scalability and power integration. Record Pipeline Growth: The Americas lead in planned data center capacity, with Virginia boasting a staggering 15.4GW in its development pipeline. Land values remain a top consideration in mature markets, driving greater attention to more cost-effective emerging locations like Johor and Pennsylvania.

The Americas lead in planned data center capacity, with Virginia boasting a staggering 15.4GW in its development pipeline. Land values remain a top consideration in mature markets, driving greater attention to more cost-effective emerging locations like Johor and Pennsylvania. Powered Land Becomes Gold Standard: Land with pre-secured utility commitments is in high demand, with developers and even non-traditional buyers like electric vehicle and chip manufacturers competing for sites. These parcels offer a guaranteed path to power amid rising power constraints and long utility lead times.

Land with pre-secured utility commitments is in high demand, with developers and even non-traditional buyers like electric vehicle and chip manufacturers competing for sites. These parcels offer a guaranteed path to power amid rising power constraints and long utility lead times. Investment Surges Across Real Estate Spectrum: The sector continues to attract significant institutional investment, with a sharp rise in joint ventures, mergers, and acquisition activity across colocation, hyperscale, and infrastructure outfits. Recently capitalized firms are increasingly targeting both established and emerging markets, fueling rapid pipeline growth and positioning data centers as one of the fastest-growing real estate asset classes globally.

The sector continues to attract significant institutional investment, with a sharp rise in joint ventures, mergers, and acquisition activity across colocation, hyperscale, and infrastructure outfits. Recently capitalized firms are increasingly targeting both established and emerging markets, fueling rapid pipeline growth and positioning data centers as one of the fastest-growing real estate asset classes globally. Land Pricing and Competition Intensify: While the Americas enjoy lower land costs overall, increased competition in top-tier markets has driven pricing upward. Midwestern U.S. markets like Indianapolis and Iowa remain among the most affordable, attracting spillover demand from more expensive neighbors.

While power availability and capacity in the data center construction pipeline are key factors in identifying the top data center markets worldwide, the 2025 edition of Cushman Wakefield's Global Data Center Market Comparison analyzes 20 critical variables tailored to hyperscale and colocation operators, occupiers, and developers across 97 global data center markets.

Established Markets Rankings:

AMERICAS APAC EMEA 1. Virginia Beijing London 2. Phoenix Shanghai Frankfurt 3. Dallas Sydney Amsterdam 4. Atlanta Johor Paris 5. Oregon Melbourne Madrid 6. Columbus Guangzhou Milan 7. Salt Lake City Mumbai Stockholm 8. Chicago Osaka Dublin 9. Carolinas Seoul Brussels 10. Sao Paulo Singapore Johannesburg

Emerging Markets Rankings:

AMERICAS APAC EMEA 1. Austin/San Antonio Auckland Abu Dhabi 2. Iowa Brisbane Dubai 3. Pennsylvania Busan Berlin 4. Reno Pune Helsinki 5. Minneapolis Bengaluru Zurich 6. Kansas City Perth Munich 7. Nashville Canberra Oslo 8. Indianapolis Taipei Warsaw 9. Central Washington Batam Reykjavik 10. Santiago Hanoi Tel Aviv

The 2025 report emphasizes that while mature markets like Virginia, Beijing, and London continue to dominate, rising land costs and regulatory restrictions are opening doors for emerging regions poised to redefine the global data center map.

"The next frontier isn't just about connectivity, it's about access to scalable land, power infrastructure, and favorable economics," said McWilliams. "Emerging markets are gaining traction, but established hubs continue to lead the way, backed by larger development pipelines, mature infrastructure, and steady demand that keeps them at the center of global data center activity."

For more information or to download the full report, visit: https://www.cushmanwakefield.com/en/insights/global-data-center-market-comparison

About Cushman Wakefield

Cushman Wakefield (NYSE: CWK) is a leading global commercial real estate services firm for property owners and occupiers with approximately 52,000 employees in nearly 400 offices and 60 countries. In 2024, the firm reported revenue of $9.4 billion across its core service lines of Services, Leasing, Capital markets, and Valuation and other. Built around the belief that Better never settles, the firm receives numerous industry and business accolades for its award-winning culture. For additional information, visit www.cushmanwakefield.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250507978519/en/

Contacts:

Media Contact:

Savannah Durban

savannah.durban@cushwake.com
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Rain City Resources Inc. (CSE: RAIN) (the "Company" or "Rain") announces that the ACCELi Cavitek mineral extraction pilot plant (the "ACCELi Plant") has been successfully processing brine onsite since April 11. The ACCELi Plant is located at an industrial water transfer site in Springfield Pennsylvania and represents a pre-commercial trial of the ACCELi technology with a focus on extracting lithium along with other critical minerals. The ACCELi Plant has been operated by Avonlea Lithium Corp. ("ALC") in which Rain has the option to earn a 100% interest.

Fluid from waste-water brine associated with natural gas production from the Marcellus Shale Formation has been passing through the ACCELi Plant successfully processing Barium, Magnesium, Calcium, Strontium and Lithium over the last three weeks.

Montrose Environmental Solutions Canada Inc ("Montrose") have been commissioned to provide an independent report on the ACCELi process using data from the pilot plant in Pennsylvania. This third-party assessment will focus on validating operational efficiency, recovery rates and compliance with environmental standards for commercial scalability.

Rain is conscious of the U.S. Department of Energy's critical material list, which includes lithium, barite and magnesium, and notes the increasing importance over the short and medium term (2020 to 2035) of lithium and magnesium, which the ACCELi Plant has been processing in Pennsylvania.

Benjamin Hill, CEO, commented, "The feedback we have received from ALC has been incredibly positive and the insights learned in scaling up from the successful bench testing in Calgary to The Pilot Plant in Pennsylvania has been invaluable. We remain focused on establishing the proprietary ACCELi technology as the default brine-hosted critical mineral extraction process in commercial operation. It provides a low capex, portable and easily scalable solution with zero water use.

We are grateful for the professionalism of the ALC team on site and we look forward to disseminating the results following the independent analysis by Montrose."

About the Marcellus Shale Formation

Pennsylvania's Marcellus Shale is attracting global attention due to the presence of high concentrations of lithium and other strategic and critical minerals in wastewater from natural gas production. This geological formation is composed of sedimentary rock found in the Appalachian Basin of eastern North America at a depth ranging from about 1,000 feet to 8,000 feet. According to a study from the Department of Energy's National Energy Technology Laboratory, this formation could represent enough lithium-rich wastewater to meet up to 40-percent of the nation's current domestic lithium consumption.

About Montrose

Montrose is a leading environmental solutions company supporting commercial and governmental organizations. Montrose Environmental Group Inc comprises over 700 employees in Canada and over 3,400 professionals globally. Montrose has extensive experience in lithium brine resource evaluation and reporting through its large and experienced hydrogeology and groundwater modelling teams.

About Us

Rain is an integrated critical mineral technology and project development company committed to solving the environmental, social, and economic issues associated with extracting lithium and other critical minerals from brine.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release may include certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. 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. Rain 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. There can be no assurance that proposed operations will be successful or that the anticipated financial, economic or strategic benefits will be realized.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as the term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy of accuracy of this news release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251118

SOURCE: Rain City Resources Inc.
BANGALORE, India, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Companion Diagnostics Market is Segmented by Type (Immunohistochemistry, Molecular Diagnosis), by Application (Oncology, Cardiovascular, Central Nervous System, Virology).

The Companion Diagnostics Market was estimated to be worth USD 5106 Million in 2024 and is forecast to a readjusted size of USD 12030 Million by 2031 with a CAGR of 13.2% during the forecast period 2024-2030.

Claim Your Free Report: https://reports.valuates.com/request/sample/QYRE-Auto-27J1624/Global_Companion_Diagnostic_Market

Major Factors Driving the Growth of Companion Diagnostics Market:

The companion diagnostics market is a vital segment of precision healthcare, offering tailored treatment strategies based on individual patient profiles. It plays a crucial role in enhancing therapeutic efficacy, minimizing side effects, and streamlining drug development. The market is fueled by the growing prevalence of chronic diseases, increasing demand for personalized medicine, technological advancements, and collaborative efforts between pharmaceutical and diagnostic companies. As healthcare systems globally shift towards more patient-specific approaches, companion diagnostics are becoming central to treatment decisions across various specialties. The continuous evolution of diagnostic platforms and increasing regulatory support ensure a dynamic and expanding market landscape.

Unlock Insights: View Full Report Now! https://reports.valuates.com/market-reports/QYRE-Auto-27J1624/global-companion-diagnostic

TRENDS INFLUENCING THE GROWTH OF THE COMPANION DIAGNOSTICS MARKET:

Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) significantly contributes to the growth of the companion diagnostics market by enabling precise genomic profiling, which is critical for personalized medicine. Its high-throughput capability allows researchers and clinicians to simultaneously analyze multiple genes associated with specific diseases or treatment responses. This comprehensive genetic insight helps in identifying biomarkers that predict a patient's response to targeted therapies. NGS-based companion diagnostics are particularly vital in oncology, where treatment effectiveness varies greatly among individuals. Pharmaceutical companies increasingly collaborate with diagnostic developers to pair NGS-based tests with specific drugs, ensuring optimal patient outcomes. Moreover, NGS improves the speed and accuracy of diagnostics, thereby gaining regulatory approvals and encouraging wider adoption across healthcare systems globally.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a key driver in the companion diagnostics market due to its ability to rapidly and accurately detect genetic mutations and alterations linked to disease progression and drug efficacy. PCR is widely used in clinical laboratories because of its cost-effectiveness, speed, and reliability. Its high sensitivity allows early identification of actionable genetic targets, especially in cancers and infectious diseases, aiding clinicians in selecting the most effective therapies. As pharmaceutical companies aim to match treatments with specific genetic profiles, PCR-based companion diagnostics become essential tools for validating drug efficacy and safety. The continuous development of real-time and digital PCR technologies enhances diagnostic accuracy, further boosting demand in both research and clinical settings.

Pharmaceutical companies are major contributors to the expansion of the companion diagnostics market by integrating diagnostics into drug development pipelines. These companies increasingly rely on companion diagnostics to stratify patients during clinical trials, enhancing treatment efficacy and minimizing adverse effects. This targeted approach not only increases the likelihood of regulatory approval but also improves patient outcomes and market adoption of new drugs. Collaborations between pharma and diagnostic firms are rising, aimed at co-developing tests that are approved simultaneously with therapeutic drugs. As personalized medicine becomes central to treatment protocols, pharmaceutical companies are investing heavily in companion diagnostics to support precision therapies, especially in oncology, immunology, and rare diseases, thereby propelling overall market growth.

The increasing global burden of chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and autoimmune conditions is significantly driving the companion diagnostics market. These diseases often require personalized treatment strategies due to patient-specific variations in drug response. Companion diagnostics help in identifying genetic markers that indicate the effectiveness of a particular therapy, thereby improving treatment outcomes. As the prevalence of these conditions rises, the demand for tests that can match patients with appropriate therapies is also increasing. This drives investment in research and the adoption of advanced diagnostic platforms across hospitals and laboratories, thus fueling the overall market growth.

The shift from a one-size-fits-all approach to individualized treatment is a major factor boosting the companion diagnostics market. Personalized medicine relies heavily on identifying genetic, proteomic, or metabolic markers to determine the most effective treatment for each patient. Companion diagnostics are essential tools in this model, guiding therapy decisions and ensuring optimal drug efficacy. Regulatory agencies also support this approach, as it reduces trial-and-error prescribing and improves safety profiles. As healthcare systems and payers increasingly recognize the long-term cost-effectiveness of personalized therapies, the integration of companion diagnostics into clinical workflows is expanding, promoting sustained market growth.

The development of targeted therapies by pharmaceutical companies is directly boosting the need for companion diagnostics. These therapies are designed to interact with specific molecular targets, making diagnostic tools essential for identifying suitable patients. Without these tests, the effectiveness of targeted drugs cannot be maximized. As oncology, immunology, and infectious diseases witness a surge in targeted drug development, the parallel growth of companion diagnostics becomes inevitable. The success of targeted treatments often hinges on early and accurate diagnosis, positioning companion diagnostics as integral to drug launch strategies and long-term treatment management.

Patients today are more informed and involved in treatment decisions, leading to increased demand for precision-based therapies supported by diagnostic insights. Companion diagnostics empower patients by providing a clear understanding of their genetic profiles and the likelihood of success with specific treatments. This transparency improves trust and compliance, leading to better outcomes. Educational campaigns and digital health platforms have played a key role in disseminating information about personalized therapies. As more patients seek tailored treatments over generic protocols, the role of companion diagnostics becomes more prominent, encouraging further innovation and market growth.

Claim Yours Now! https://reports.valuates.com/api/directpaytoken?rcode=QYRE-Auto-27J1624&lic=single-user

COMPANION DIAGNOSTICS MARKET SHARE:

The companion diagnostics market shows strong regional variations, with North America leading due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, high R&D investments, and early adoption of precision medicine.

Europe follows closely, supported by favorable regulatory frameworks and increasing collaborations between pharma and diagnostic firms.

In Asia-Pacific, the market is rapidly growing due to rising awareness, expanding healthcare facilities, and increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. Countries like China, Japan, and India are witnessing a surge in demand for genetic testing and cancer diagnostics.

Key Companies:

Abbott Laboratories

Agilent Technologies

Danaher

Illumina Inc

Myriad Genetics

Qiagen NV

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Roche Holdings

Merck

Agendia

Advanced Cell Diagnostics

Purchase Chapters: https://reports.valuates.com/request/chaptercost/QYRE-Auto-27J1624/Global_Companion_Diagnostic

SUBSCRIPTION

We have introduced a tailor-made subscription for our customers. Please leave a note in the Comment Section to know about our subscription plans.

DISCOVER MORE INSIGHTS: EXPLORE SIMILAR REPORTS!

- Immune in Vitro Diagnostics market was valued at USD 23380 Million in 2023 and is anticipated to reach USD 37310 Million by 2030, witnessing a CAGR of 6.9% during the forecast period 2024-2030.

- Companion Diagnostics for Oncology Market was estimated to be worth USD 4101 Million in 2023 and is forecast to a readjusted size of USD 8392.9 Million by 2030 with a CAGR of 10.8% during the forecast period 2024-2030.

- Digital Companion Diagnostics Market

- Companion Diagnostics (CDx) Development Services Market

- Pharmacogenomics Technology & Theranostics & Companion Diagnostics (CDx) Market was estimated to be worth USD 9591.9 Million in 2023 and is forecast to a readjusted size of USD 24730 Million by 2030 with a CAGR of 14.7% during the forecast period 2024-2030.

- Companion Diagnostics Devices Market

- Circulating Tumor Cell Diagnostics market is projected to grow from USD 5449.1 Million in 2024 to USD 9239.7 Million by 2030, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.2% during the forecast period.

- Veterinary Health Diagnostics Market was estimated to be worth USD 3152 Million in 2023 and is forecast to a readjusted size of USD 4655.2 Million by 2030 with a CAGR of 5.6% during the forecast period 2024-2030.

- Companion Cancer Diagnostics Market

- Companion Animal Diagnosis Market was estimated to be worth USD 2436 Million in 2023 and is forecast to a readjusted size of USD 4256.4 Million by 2030 with a CAGR of 8.3% during the forecast period 2024-2030.

- Companion Animal Diagnostics Imaging Market was estimated to be worth USD 2660 Million in 2023 and is forecast to a readjusted size of USD 4367.8 Million by 2030 with a CAGR of 7.3% during the forecast period 2024-2030.

DISCOVER OUR VISION: VISIT ABOUT US!

Valuates offers in-depth market insights into various industries. Our extensive report repository is constantly updated to meet your changing industry analysis needs.

Our team of market analysts can help you select the best report covering your industry. We understand your niche region-specific requirements and that's why we offer customization of reports. With our customization in place, you can request for any particular information from a report that meets your market analysis needs.

To achieve a consistent view of the market, data is gathered from various primary and secondary sources, at each step, data triangulation methodologies are applied to reduce deviance and find a consistent view of the market. Each sample we share contains a detailed research methodology employed to generate the report. Please also reach our sales team to get the complete list of our data sources.

GET A FREE QUOTE

Valuates Reports

sales@valuates.com

For U.S. Toll-Free Call 1-(315)-215-3225

WhatsApp: +91-9945648335

Website: https://reports.valuates.com

Blog: https://valuatestrends.blogspot.com/

Pinterest: https://in.pinterest.com/valuatesreports/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/valuatesreports

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valuatesreports/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@valuatesreports6753

https://www.facebook.com/valuateskorean

https://www.facebook.com/valuatesspanish

https://www.facebook.com/valuatesjapanese

https://valuatesreportspanish.blogspot.com/

https://valuateskorean.blogspot.com/

https://valuatesgerman.blogspot.com/

https://valuatesreportjapanese.blogspot.com/

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1082232/Valuates_Reports_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/companion-diagnostics-market-set-to-surpass-usd-12-billion-by-2031-with-a-cagr-of-13-2--discover-key-insights-now-valuates-reports-302448709.html
Ende Mai leitete US-Prasident Donald Trump mit der Unterzeichnung mehrerer Dekrete eine weitreichende Wende in der amerikanischen Energiepolitik ein. Im Fokus: der beschleunigte Ausbau der Kernenergie.



Mit einem umfassenden Manahmenpaket sollen Genehmigungsprozesse reformiert, kleinere Reaktoren gefordert und der Anteil von Atomstrom in den USA massiv gesteigert werden. Ausloser ist der explodierende Energiebedarf durch KI-Rechenzentren, der eine stabile, CO-arme Grundlastversorgung zwingend notwendig macht.



In unserem kostenlosen Spezialreport erfahren Sie, welche 3 Unternehmen jetzt im Zentrum dieser energiepolitischen Neuausrichtung stehen, und wer vom kommenden Boom der Nuklearindustrie besonders profitieren konnte.



Holen Sie sich den neuesten Report! Verpassen Sie nicht, welche Aktien besonders von der Energiewende in den USA profitieren durften, und laden Sie sich das Gratis-PDF jetzt kostenlos herunter.



Dieses exklusive Angebot gilt aber nur fur kurze Zeit! Daher jetzt downloaden!
Thousands of students and workers demonstrated in Panama on Tuesday over a planned increase in the US military presence around the country's vital interoceanic shipping canal and other government policies.

US President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened to "take back" control of the Panama Canal that the United States built and controlled until 1999.

To deflect the pressure, Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino agreed last month to allow US military personnel to deploy to Panamanian-controlled bases along the canal for training, exercises and "other activities."

The deal, which was seen as a major concession to Trump, has met with pushback from Panamanians, who oppose any perceived infringement of their country's sovereignty after a 1989 US invasion to depose then-leader General Manuel Noriega.

Tuesday's demonstration in Panama City, the biggest in three weeks of strikes and protests, was also called to protest Mulino's bid to reopen a huge open-pit copper mine as well as social security reforms.

"Since Mulino took office (in July 2024), everything has gone to hell," 27-year-old student Isaac Alba, who took part in the demonstration, told AFP.
Over 100,000 registrations received from nurses across 199* countries - a 28% increase from the third edition, which received 78,000+ registrations.

One of the shortlisted Top 10 finalists will be honoured with the grand title award and a prize of USD 250,000.

These finalists were selected following a rigorous evaluation process, led by esteemed expert jury and grand jury panels. The entire process is independently moderated by the appointed "Process Advisors" Ernst & Young LLP.

DUBAI, AE / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 / Aster DM Healthcare has today announced the Top 10 finalists for the fourth edition of Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award - a prestigious global recognition with USD 250,000 prize money, that honours the exceptional contributions of nurses worldwide. These 10 finalists were selected from a record-breaking pool of 100,000+ registrations across 199* countries, through a stringent evaluation process led by expert jury and Grand jury panels members. The entire process is independently moderated by the appointed "Process Advisors" Ernst & Young LLP.

The top 10 finalists for 2025 includes: Catherine Maree Holliday (Centre for Community-Driven Response, Switzerland), Edith Namba (Mount Hagen Provincial Hospital, Papua New Guinea), Fitz Gerald Dalina Camacho (Mediclinic City Hospital, UAE), Dr. Jed Ray Gengoba Montayre (The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR), Dr. Jose Arnold Tariga (Insight Global Health, USA), Khadija Mohamed Juma (Tudor Subcounty Hospital, Kenya), Maheswari Jaganathan (Cancer Research Malaysia), Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti (Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana), Dr. Sukhpal Kaur (PGIMER, India), Vibhaben Gunvantbhai Salaliya (Hospital for Mental Health, India). To know more about the top 10 finalists, please visit: https://www.asterguardians.com/

Dr Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare, said "The Top 10 finalists have demonstrated extraordinary dedication, skill, and compassion in their work - selected from over 100,000 registrations that were received for the 4th edition of Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award. These nurses are not just healthcare providers, but true leaders, pushing boundaries and making a profound impact in their communities. Their exceptional contributions deserve to be recognized, and through this award, we celebrate their passion and commitment to improving lives across the globe."

The fourth edition of the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award will not only present the grand prize of USD 250,000 to the winner, but also honour the other nine finalists with recognition and rewards. The final round will feature interviews with distinguished members of the Grand Jury, including: Prof. Sheila Tlou, Co-Chairperson of the Global HIV Prevention Coalition and Special Ambassador of the African Leaders Malaria Alliance, Botswana; Prof. James Buchan, Adjunct Professor at the WHO Collaborating Centre, University of Technology, Sydney, and Editor Emeritus of the Human Resources for Health Journal; Dr. Peter Carter, OBE Awardee and Independent Healthcare Consultant, Former CEO of Central & Northwest London NHS and Former CEO of the Royal College of Nursing, UK; Dr. Niti Pall, President-Elect at the International Diabetes Federation, Senior Consultant at AXA EssentiAll, France, and Board Chair of Harbr & Managing Director of Health4all Advisory, UK; and Mr. Vishal Bali, Executive Chairman of Asia Healthcare Holdings, Senior Advisor at TPG Growth, and General Council Member of the Neonates Foundation of India.

The final stage will involve public voting and interviews with distinguished members of the Grand Jury, with the winner set to be announced at a gala event in Dubai, UAE on May 26, 2025. *As per data.worldbank.org/country

##

About Aster DM Healthcare FZC in GCC

Founded in 1987 by Dr. Azad Moopen, Aster DM Healthcare is a leading integrated healthcare provider, with a strong presence across 5 countries in the GCC and Jordan. Aster is committed to the vision of providing accessible and high quality healthcare, from primary to quaternary services, with its promise of "We will treat you well". The organisation's robust integrated healthcare model includes 15 hospitals, 122 clinics, and 313 pharmacies in GCC serving all segments of the society through three differentiated brands: Aster, Medcare and Access. Aster consistently adapts to meet the evolving needs of patients, ensuring access to quality healthcare through both physical and digital channels which is exemplified with the launch of the region's first healthcare super app, myAster.

About Aster DM Healthcare Limited, India

Aster DM Healthcare Limited is one of the largest healthcare service providers operating in India with a strong presence across primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary healthcare through 19 hospitals with 5,128 beds, 13 clinics, 203 pharmacies (Operated by Alfaone Retail Pharmacies Private Limited under brand license from Aster), and 254 labs and patient experience centers across 5 states in India, delivering a simple yet strong promise to different stakeholders: "We'll Treat You Well."

For more information about us, please contact:

Lavanya Mandal Udhayan Sasidharan Nair Head of PR and Internal Communications Manager - PR & Communications Aster DM Healthcare Aster DM Healthcare Tel: +971 528126577 Tel: + 971 508850520 Email: lavanya.mandal@asterdmhealthcare.com Email: udhayan.nair@asterdmhealthcare.com

Annexure / Editor's Note -

The top 10 finalists for 2025 include:

Catherine Holliday, Centre for Community-Driven Response, Switzerland: Catherine Holliday founded the Centre for Community-Driven Response (CCDR) to embed patient experience as a core pillar of health policy, alongside clinical and economic evidence. Through the creation of the PEEK (Personal Experience, Expectations, and Knowledge)protocol, she has built one of the world's largest repositories of patient experience data - over 2,000 interviews shaping strategies across countries and ensuring patients become active hosts in their own care. Catherine also pioneered the Pathways Specialist Nurse Service, a nurseled Telehealth model delivering triage, assessment, and education to underserved, crisis-affected, and remote communities. Her model redefined Telehealth in nursing, expanding access for people with disabilities, mental health conditions, and chronic diseases in low-resource settings. Catherine was named one of the WHO's 100 Outstanding Women Nurses and Midwife Leaders (2020), received the Australian Health Minister's Award for Nursing Trailblazers (2022), and was honored with the President's Award for Legacy Contribution by the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (2024).

Edith Namba, Mount Hagen Provincial Hospital, Papua New Guinea: Edith Namba is a courageous nursing leader whose 27-year journey has been instrumental in advancing patient care, spearheading public health initiatives, and specializing in gender-based violence response programs. Triggered by the urgent needs she witnessed during cholera outbreaks and gender-based violence crisis, Edith has led systemic change - pioneering emergency care for survivors, playing a crucial role in piloting Family Support Centres in rural areas, and training health workers to provide holistic care. Edith has also received recognition from CIMC for her work of volunteerism in the fight against of Gender based Violence in Papua New Guinea. Her initiatives have reduced preventable harm, advanced gender equity, and redefined what it means to lead in healthcare - not from behind a desk, but at the heart of crisis and community.

Fitz Gerald Dalina Camacho, Mediclinic City Hospital, UAE: Fitz Gerald Dalina Camacho is a nurse educator whose journey was ignited by a deep conviction that safe, high-quality care begins with empowered, well-trained nurses. Fitz has played a key role in enhancing safety protocols and education systems across hospitals in the Middle East. His initiatives include the establishment of the Life Support Training Center in collaboration with the American Heart Association, the design and launch of the Continuous Medical Education (CME) Program, and the development of Adult and Pediatric Nursing Upskilling Programs. These efforts combine hands-on innovation with global standards. Fitz's passion for equity also extends beyond the hospital, as he actively teaches and volunteers with underserved communities.

Dr. Jed Ray Gengoba Montayre ,

Centre for Evidence-Based Practice for Healthcare Policy, The Hong

Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR: Dr. Jed Ray Gengoba Montayre is a globally recognised Gerontologist, Researcher and Policy Influencer whose work drives systems-level change in ageing, caregiver support, and the global nursing workforce. He has led multiple World Health Organization commissioned projects, including a global review of community-based age-friendly interventions that informed the WHO Age-Friendly Framework, and a critical analysis of strategies to improve science literacy during public health emergencies. His pioneering contributions to nursing education - such creation of an interdisciplinary program Master of Ageing, Wellbeing, and Sustainability - has redefined how future health leaders are trained. Dr. Montayre's research and digital innovations, including telecare for socially isolated older adults, continue to shape inclusive, evidence-based care across borders. His contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious "Distinguished Educator in Gerontological Nursing" award from the U.S.-based National Hartford Center of Gerontological Nursing Excellence in 2021. He was also honoured with the "Vice-Chancellor Excellence in Research" award for Early Career Research at Western Sydney University in 2022 and named "New Zealand Young Nurse of the Year" in 2016.

Dr. Jose Arnold Tariga, Insight Global Health, USA: Dr Jose Arnold Tariga is a transformative nursing educator and global health advocate whose mission was sparked by his own early struggles navigating bias as a highly qualified, non-western trained nurse entering the U.S. healthcare system. Turning adversity into action, he developed the groundbreaking International Transition to Practice Program (ITPP), a model now shaping how internationally educated nurses bridge clinical, cultural, and communication gaps. From designing rapid upskilling modules during COVID-19 to challenging systemic inequities in nursing education, his work has elevated standards, improved retention, and expanded access. Prior to his move to the USA, he spent over 9 years in the UAE driving education and training for staff at multiple organizations, delivering lectures and workshops recognized by the Department of Health.

Khadija Mohamed Juma, Tudor Subcounty Hospital, Kenya : Khadija Mohamed Juma is a Kenyan nurse and social innovator revolutionizing blood donation access through her tech-enabled platform, RedSplash. In just five years, she has led over 500 blood donation campaigns, collected more than 25,000 units of blood, and saved an estimated 75,000 lives -transforming Kenya's approach to emergency care. Recognized by the Commonwealth Youth Awards and featured on global media, Khadija's Smart Donor Search app connects donors to patients in real time, all while breaking cultural taboos and mobilizing over 500 volunteers. Her bold, community-driven approach is redefining the future of healthcare accessibility in Africa.

Maheswari Jaganathan, Cancer Research Malaysia: Maheswari Jaganathan is a nationally recognized oncology nurse leader who pioneered Malaysia's Patient Navigation Program, which has transformed breast cancer care by reaching over 4,700 newly diagnosed women and closing critical gaps in access and equity. This program -now implemented across multiple hospitals in Malaysia-integrates clinical support with financial, legal, and emotional advocacy, dramatically improving patient outcomes. Recognized by the World Health Organization, her work is redefining nursing as a force for system change. She plans to set up a Navigation Academy for Southeast Asia - a regional hub of learning and collaboration focused on system change, AI, mHealth, and research, further positioning nurses at the forefront of healthcare transformation.

Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti , Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana: Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti is a nationally and internationally recognized oncology nurse leader and recipient of multiple honours for her contributions to cancer care, research, and education in Africa. She played a crucial role in the setting up a formal oncology nurse training program in Ghana. Through her leadership, the centre had trained over 60 oncology nurse specialists and 10 breast care nurses. She is a member of education and training committee for the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC), and coinvestigator on Global Bridges Oncology GM Grant, she has shaped continental competencies and policies in cancer nursing, while mentoring more than 48 nurses from African nations. Her initiatives in driving nurse-led education and research - are revolutionizing cancer care and positioning nursing as a central force in Africa's cancer control response.

Dr Sukhpal Kaur, PGIMER, India: Dr. Sukhpal Kaur is a pioneering force in Indian nursing whose 34-year career has redefined how evidence-based care reaches the most vulnerable. Motivated by the urgent need for nurse-led innovation in underserved settings, she played a key role in securing national interdisciplinary research grants - developing mobile apps, home-care protocols, and indigenous therapies that have improved outcomes for cancer patients, bedridden elders, and rural families. From contributing to nurse-led specialty clinics to transforming education through simulation and competency based learning, her work bridges academic excellence with grassroots impact - making compassionate, research-driven care accessible where it's needed most.

Vibha Salaliya, Hospital for Mental Health, India: Vibha Salaliya is a nationally recognized mental health nurse and recipient of the Florence Nightingale Award. She has been instrumental in implementation of the Peer Support Volunteer (PSV) model, which has now scaled across four government mental hospitals in Gujarat. Through this revolutionary initiative, over 3000 individuals with mental illness have achieved economic independence, and 426 patients have transitioned from care receivers to care givers-breaking the stigma and cycle of institutionalization. Her clinical innovations have drastically reduced hospital stay durations from 90 to 43 days by integrating psychotherapeutic approaches, life skills training, family reintegration strategies, and vocational rehabilitation initiatives. She has also trained over 6000 frontline professionals across Gujarat.

##

SOURCE: Aster DM

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/healthcare-and-pharmaceutical/aster-guardians-global-nursing-award-unveils-top-10-finalists-for-202-1024729
Calling of a Shareholders Joint General Meeting

To be held on May 22, 2025

Paris, May 7, 2025 at 4:30 p.m.

ODIOT Holding (Euronext Access, FR0004152700 - MLODT) announces its joint general meeting to approve the 2024 accounts.

The shareholders of ODIOT HOLDING are invited to participate in the joint general meeting to be held on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., at the Cercle France-Ameriques, Hotel Le Marois 9-11, avenue Franklin D. Roosevelt - 75008 Paris.

A notice of shareholders' meeting at the joint general meeting on Thursday, May 22, 2025 was published in the Bulletin des Annonces Legales et Obligatoires (BALO) on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. This notice can be viewed on the ODIOT HOLDING website https://www.odiotholding.com/investor-relations .

The preparatory documents for this general meeting will be made available in accordance with the legal procedures and deadlines.

About ODIOT HOLDING

ODIOT HOLDING is the controlling holding company of ODIOT, a French luxury brand founded in 1690, and one of the most prestigious goldsmiths since the 18th and 19th centuries. Royal supplier to the Empire and all European courts, with unique expertise in creating exceptional decorative pieces and cutlery in precious metals (solid silver, vermeil, savings, gold). ODIOT is distinguished as Company of Living Heritage (Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant) by the French Minister of Economy.

Investor Relations Contact: investors@odiotholding.com

Press Relations: odiotholding@aelium.fr

ODIOT HOLDING (Euronext Access, FR0004152700 - MLODT) www.odiotholding.com

------------------------

This publication embed "Actusnews SECURITY MASTER ".

- SECURITY MASTER Key:

m2iaZcWbl5mcy21qYsmabmZpmW2Wm5TIlpaXyJNsZJiWmXGVymZlmcrIZnJimm1t

- Check this key: https://www.security-master-key.com.

------------------------



 Copyright Actusnews Wire

Receive by email the next press releases of the company by registering on www.actusnews.com, it's free

Full and original release in PDF format:https://www.actusnews.com/documents_communiques/ACTUS-0-91587-20250507_pr-odioth_agm-en.pdf
GERMANTOWN, TENNESSEE / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 / Travel Nurses, Inc. is thrilled to celebrate Nurses Week, May 6-12, with the theme 'YOU' at the center of it all. This special week is dedicated to recognizing the unwavering dedication, compassion and expertise that nurses bring to their patients and communities every day.

Travel Nurses, Inc. logo

Nurses Week 2025

This year's celebration will feature social media posts highlighting extraordinary nurses, engaging video interviews and personalized gifts. Everything is designed to highlight the hard work and dedication of nurses across the nation. The gift options reflect each nurse's unique needs and preferences, allowing them to choose something meaningful while celebrating their individuality and contributions.

As a company founded by nurses, Travel Nurses, Inc. understands the challenges and triumphs that come with this calling. Their staff have firsthand experience of the long hours, the sacrifices and the deep emotional connections tied to the nursing profession. This perspective drives their mission to support and uplift nurses in every way possible.

"We look forward to Nurses Week each year, and it's one of our biggest celebrations at Travel Nurses, Inc.," said Cristina Duncan, BSN, RN, Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Operations Officer at Travel Nurses, Inc. "This is the least we can do to celebrate all the amazing nurses we staff across the country."

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok and LinkedIn (@travelnursesinc) to stay connected, share your stories and be part of the festivities.

SOURCE: Travel Nurses Inc.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/healthcare-and-pharmaceutical/travel-nurses-inc.-celebrates-nurses-week-2025-1021332
Equity InsiderNews Commentary

Issued on behalf of RUA GOLD Inc.

VANCOUVER, BC, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Equity InsiderNews Commentary - Right after the world's largest gold-buying market (China) returned from its holiday break, gold prices resumed their climb, also helping reignite momentum across gold miner stocks along the way. Now analysts are adjusting their forecasts for gold, and for gold stocks, with JP Morgan now seeing $4,000 gold as early as Q2 2026, Ed Yardeni of Yardeni Research projecting $4,000 gold by year-end. Industry heavyweight Rob McEwen and Billionaire investor John Paulson are both expecting gold to nearly hit $5,000 within the next few years, which could set the stage for a major rally in gold mining equities. Among the gold companies out there making headlines, there's been recent developments from groups such as including RUA GOLD Inc. (TSXV: RUA) (OTCQB: NZAUF), Revival Gold Inc. (TSXV: RVG) (OTCQX: RVLGF), Monument Mining Limited (TSXV: MMY), Orla Mining Ltd. (NYSE-American: ORLA) (TSX: OLA), and Osisko Development Corp. (NYSE: ODV) (TSX: ODV).

Gold's run to $3,500 in late April has forced analysts to rethink their forecasts, with Deutsche Bank now seeing $3,700 gold on the horizon. After a brief pullback to $3,300 and most recently crossing back over the $3,400 mark, strength has returned to the sector, and gold mining stocks are starting to reflect that renewed momentum.

RUA GOLD Inc. (TSXV: RUA) (OTCQB: NZAUF), a New Zealand-focused explorer, is drawing fresh attention after reporting encouraging new drill results from its Auld Creek project in the Reefton Goldfield-one of the country's most historically productive regions.

Recent assays included 9.0 metres at 5.9 g/t gold equivalent (5.2 g/t Au and 0.16% Sb) from hole ACDDH027, and 1.25 metres at 48.3 g/t AuEq (13.3 g/t Au and 8.1% Sb) from hole ACDDH028. These intercepts, encountered 80 to 100 metres below the current resource outline, point to a zone that may be gaining strength at depth. With mineralization remaining open and early results supporting the company's geological model, Auld Creek is shaping up as a compelling focus in the 2025 campaign.

Auld Creek is just one piece of a broader exploration push across the Reefton district, where RUA GOLD now controls roughly 95% of this historically rich goldfield.

By pairing AI-powered targeting with advanced 3D geological modeling, the company is taking a modern approach to an overlooked region.

According to a recent feature from VRIFY, RUA's exploration team used the DORA platform to analyze over 170,000 data points, helping to generate and rank high-priority targets.

This data-driven strategy has already flagged the Gallant prospect, only 3 km from the past-producing Globe Progress mine, as a standout, with follow-up drilling now underway. The Globe Progress mine itself produced over 610,000 ounces between 2007 and 2016, with another 424,000 ounces extracted prior to 1950. With AI guiding fieldwork, RUA is working to accelerate discovery while reducing exploration risk.

At Gallant, drilling is now targeting potential extensions of a previously reported 20.7-metre vein grading 62.2 g/t gold, which included a 1-metre interval assaying 1,911 g/t. Just a few kilometres away at Murray Creek, visible gold has been noted in the majority of holes drilled so far. Both campaigns are being guided by VRIFY's AI-generated target ranking, helping the team focus efforts on zones with the strongest geological indicators.

At Auld Creek, RUA GOLD's integration of traditional mapping with predictive modeling has delivered compelling results, including 12 metres at 12.2 g/t gold equivalent, highlighted by a 2-metre section grading 54.8 g/t gold. Surface sampling has revealed antimony values above 40%, underscoring the polymetallic potential of the system. Four mineralized shoots have now been confirmed, though only two are currently factored into the project's inferred resource-suggesting ample room for further growth.

Beyond Reefton, RUA GOLD's North Island flagship project, Glamorgan, is shaping up as its own high-impact discovery story. Just downtrend from OceanaGold's high-profile WKP deposit, Glamorgan has already revealed two large gold-arsenic anomalies stretching more than 4 kilometres. Rock samples have returned values up to 43 g/t gold, and with drill targeting now in motion, the project is gaining attention as a possible breakout opportunity in New Zealand's North Island.

While gold is the main attraction, antimony may be the hidden upside. In January 2025, New Zealand added antimony to its official Critical Minerals List-highlighting its growing importance in global supply chains. That puts new strategic weight behind RUA GOLD's high-grade antimony intercepts at Auld Creek, especially as prices have surged above US$50,000 per tonne. For investors watching critical minerals, this angle could add strategic upside.

Backed by a seasoned technical team credited with more than $11 billion in past mining exits and supported by $5.75 million in fresh capital, RUA GOLD is advancing a focused strategy to uncover high-grade opportunities across one of the Southern Hemisphere's most promising yet underexplored gold districts.

With modern tools, disciplined exploration, and a widening resource footprint, RUA GOLD is positioning itself for the kind of rediscovery that puts districts back on the map.

CONTINUED Read this and more news for RUA GOLD at: https://equity-insider.com/2025/04/24/others-found-1911-g-t-here-before-now-a-proven-11b-mining-team-is-back-to-finish-the-job/

In other industry developments and happenings in the market include:

Revival Gold Inc. (TSXV: RVG) (OTCQX: RVLGF) recently released a new Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) for its Mercur Gold Project in Utah, outlining a 10-year mine life with average production of nearly 96,000 ounces of gold per year.

At current gold prices, the project carries a $295 million after-tax NPV with a 27% IRR, rising sharply if gold moves higher. With permitting expected in about two years, the Mercur project is shaping up as a significant U.S.-based development story.

Monument Mining Limited (TSXV: MMY) recently entered a collaboration agreement with joint venture partner Odyssey Gold, setting the stage to process ore from the Tuckanarra Gold Project at Monument's Burnakura Mill in Western Australia.

"I am very pleased with the execution of this MOU with Odyssey, which aligns with Monument's development strategy to enhance production potential in the Murchison region," said Cathy Zhai, President and CEO of Monument. "As junior companies continue to navigate the inherent challenges and risks in the Natural Resource industry, this collaboration represents a win-win opportunity and a business model which may expand the potential mine life of the Murchison Gold Project, accelerate capital returns, and enhance free cash flow. It will also support exploration companies' direct access to cash resources without large dilution for advancement of gold discoveries within this prolific Murchison Goldfield."

The deal could increase production by up to 20% while improving mill utilization and free cash flow. Both companies are sharing technical data as they explore a joint path forward.

Orla Mining Ltd. (NYSE-American: ORLA) (TSX: OLA) kicked off 2025 with record gold production, reporting nearly 48,000 ounces in Q1 thanks to solid output from Camino Rojo and a fast start at its newly acquired Musselwhite mine. Camino Rojo delivered 30,000 ounces and continues to track toward full-year guidance of 110,000-120,000 ounces.

Musselwhite, acquired in late February, produced almost 18,000 ounces in March alone at an impressive grade of 5.55 g/t.

With both mines firing early, and a development project in Nevada still to come, Orla is gaining attention as one of the emerging multi-asset gold producers to watch.

Osisko Development Corp.'s (NYSE: ODV) (TSX: ODV) latest feasibility study highlights the Cariboo Gold Project as one of the most advanced undeveloped gold assets in a Tier-1 jurisdiction. The project projects robust returns, with a base case after-tax NPV5% of C$943 million and a 22.1% IRR, increasing to over C$2 billion NPV at current spot prices.

"The completion of this optimized feasibility study represents a critical milestone for the Cariboo Gold Project, one of the few undeveloped, permitted gold projects in a Tier-1 jurisdiction," said Sean Roosen, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Osisko. "With today's favorable gold price backdrop and positive outlook, we believe this project is well-positioned to deliver substantial value to all stakeholders. We look forward to sharing further updates in the coming months."

The plan outlines average annual production of 190,000 ounces over a decade, with first gold expected in H2 2027. With permits secured and financing in progress, Cariboo is emerging as a high-impact development story aligned with today's gold macro tailwinds.

Article Source: https://equity-insider.com/2025/04/24/others-found-1911-g-t-here-before-now-a-proven-11b-mining-team-is-back-to-finish-the-job/

CONTACT:

Equity Insider

info@equity-insider.com

(604) 265-2873

DISCLAIMER: Nothing in this publication should be considered as personalized financial advice. We are not licensed under securities laws to address your particular financial situation. No communication by our employees to you should be deemed as personalized financial advice. Please consult a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decision. This is a paid advertisement and is neither an offer nor recommendation to buy or sell any security. We hold no investment licenses and are thus neither licensed nor qualified to provide investment advice. The content in this report or email is not provided to any individual with a view toward their individual circumstances. Equity Insider is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Market IQ Media Group, Inc. ("MIQ"). This article is being distributed for Baystreet.ca media corp, who has been paid a fee for an advertising contract with RUA Gold Inc. (forty five thousand dollars Canadian for a three month contract subject to the terms and conditions of the agreement from the company direct). MIQ has not been paid a fee for RUA Gold Inc. advertising or digital media, but the owner/operators of MIQ also co-owns Baystreet.ca Media Corp. ("BAY") There may also be 3rd parties who may have shares of RUA Gold Inc. and may liquidate their shares which could have a negative effect on the price of the stock. This compensation constitutes a conflict of interest as to our ability to remain objective in our communication regarding the profiled company. Because of this conflict, individuals are strongly encouraged to not use this publication as the basis for any investment decision. The owner/operator of MIQ/BAY does not own any shares of RUA Gold Inc. but reserve the right to buy and sell, and will buy and sell shares of RUA Gold Inc. at any time without any further notice commencing immediately and ongoing. We also expect further compensation as an ongoing digital media effort to increase visibility for the company, no further notice will be given, but let this disclaimer serve as notice that all material, including this article, which is disseminated by MIQ on behalf of BAY has been approved by RUA Gold Inc. Technical information relating to RUA GOLD Inc. has been reviewed and approved by Simon Henderson, CP, AUSIMM, a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Henderson is Chief Operational Officer of RUA GOLD Inc., and therefore is not independent of the Company; this is a paid advertisement, we currently do not own any shares of RUA Gold Inc. but will likely buy and sell shares of the company in the open market, or through private placements, and/or other investment vehicles.

While all information is believed to be reliable, it is not guaranteed by us to be accurate. Individuals should assume that all information contained in our newsletter is not trustworthy unless verified by their own independent research. Also, because events and circumstances frequently do not occur as expected, there will likely be differences between the any predictions and actual results. Always consult a licensed investment professional before making any investment decision. Be extremely careful, investing in securities carries a high degree of risk; you may likely lose some or all of the investment.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2644233/5306353/Equity_Insider_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/mining-insiders-are-moving-capital-into-overlooked-gold-regions-302448756.html
Equity InsiderNews Commentary

Issued on behalf of Lake Victoria Gold Ltd.

VANCOUVER, BC, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Equity InsiderNews Commentary - After surpassing $3,500 at the tail end of April, multiple institutions revised their forecasts for gold prices upward, with Deutsche Bank predicting $3,700-per-ounce gold as early as next year. Billionaire hedge fund manager John Paulson went further, predicting near-$5,000 gold by 2028. Following a short sluggish performance period, the gold price returned to $3,300, leading to gold mining stocks collectively strengthening again. On the ground, several gold miners are putting out solid news, with recent developments coming from Lake Victoria Gold (TSXV: LVG) (OTCQB: LVGLF), Galiano Gold Inc. (NYSE-American: GAU) (TSX: GAU), Centerra Gold Inc. (NYSE: CGAU) (TSX: CG), Omai Gold Mines Corp. (TSXV: OMG) (OTCQB: OMGGF), and i-80 Gold Corp. (NYSE-American: IAUX) (TSX: IAU).

After the world's biggest gold-buying market (China) returned from a holiday break, the price of gold has rallied, and fuelling gold miner stocks with it. As analysts see $4,000 gold in the near future, including JP Morgan projecting this as early as Q2 2026, Ed Yardeni at Yardeni Research is calling for this level by the end of the year. Canadian mining industry veteran Rob McEwen joins Paulson in believing gold will surge to $5,000 an ounce in the next 2-3 years, and fuelling a gold mining stocks boom along the way.

Lake Victoria Gold (TSXV: LVG) (OTCQB: LVGLF), a junior gold developer focused on East Africa, has just taken a meaningful step toward a potential near-term production opportunity. The company recently signed a non-binding Letter of Intent with Nyati Resources to evaluate a potential small-scale development partnership at its Tembo Project in Tanzania.

"We are excited by the potential to leverage existing processing infrastructure and local ore sources to create a scalable gold production platform in Tanzania," said Marc Cernovitch, President and CEO of Lake Victoria Gold. "This proposed partnership aligns with our strategy of unlocking near-term value while continuing to advance our core exploration assets."

The partnership under evaluation would bring together mineralized material from LVG's 100%-owned Mining Licences with Nyati's existing 120 tpd processing plant, plus a second 500 tpd facility now under construction. The plan envisions a dedicated operating company structured to meet the Tanzanian Government's 16% free carried interest framework. Both parties have entered a 60-day exclusivity window to complete due diligence and finalize terms.

This LOI builds on LVG'searlier disclosure that it was exploring small-scale development opportunities at Tembo, within the company's four Mining Licences.

While still in the early stages, this initiative is part of a broader strategy to assess near-term development options. The company notes that it is not underpinned by a current mineral resource estimate or Feasibility Study, and remains subject to meaningful technical and economic risks.

"Tembo has always stood out as a project with the potential to deliver both near-term value and long-term discovery upside," said Simon Benstead, Chairman and CFO of Lake Victoria Gold. "Evaluating this small-scale development opportunity allows us to test the system, generate operational insights, and potentially self-fund ongoing exploration. We believe this approach aligns well with our disciplined strategy and our commitment to responsible, phased development in Tanzania."

Bordering the prolific Bulyanhulu Mine operated by Barrick, the Tembo Project has benefited from over US$28 million in historical exploration, including more than 50,000 meters of drilling. Targets like Ngula 1, Nyakagwe Village, and Nyakagwe East remain open along strike and at depth, continuing to demonstrate strong geological potential.

While Tembo represents the company's long-term growth anchor, the Imwelo Project is positioned to be the first mover in LVG's portfolio. Acquired earlier this year, Imwelo is fully permitted and strategically located near AngloGold Ashanti's Geita Gold Mine. A 2021 pre-feasibility study and existing approvals suggest a potentially streamlined path toward construction.

To support its next phase of growth without issuing more shares, Lake Victoria Gold signed a non-binding gold prepay term sheet in late 2024 with Monetary Metals. The arrangement provides upfront capital now, in exchange for delivering a portion of future gold production at a modest discount. This non-dilutive structure aligns repayment with LVG's production timeline and outlines access to the value of up to 7,000 ounces of gold-helping fund construction and development at the Imwelo Project.

More recently, in February 2025, the company completed the initial tranche of a strategic, three-stage investment agreement with Taifa Group, raising C$3.52 million at C$0.22 per share. As part of the evolving partnership, Taifa's former CEO, Richard Reynolds, has joined the board of LVG.

LVG also retains exposure to long-term upside through its 2021 agreement with Barrick, which outlines up to US$45 million in potential milestone-based payments. Backed by development momentum at Imwelo, near-term optionality at Tembo, and strategic partnerships, the company is steadily positioning itself as a noteworthy player among East Africa's emerging gold developers.

With multiple growth levers in motion-from exploration and joint ventures to funding agreements and project advancement-Lake Victoria Gold continues to build momentum in one of Africa's most prospective gold regions.

CONTINUED Read this and more news for Lake Victoria Gold at:

https://equity-insider.com/2025/04/14/with-funding-commitments-in-place-a-gold-mine-is-being-built-and-this-stock-is-still-under-0-20/

In other industry developments and happenings in the market include:

Galiano Gold Inc. (NYSE-American: GAU) (TSX: GAU) has uncovered a new high-grade zone at its Abore deposit, with drill results showing 50 metres at 3.15 g/t gold beneath the current pit design. Additional intercepts at Abore South confirmed strong grades and continuity, including 34m at 12.0 g/t and 27m at 6.7 g/t.

"The identification of a new high-grade zone beneath Abore Main and the extensions that have grown the Abore South high-grade zone from 90 meters to 180 meters long, underscore the substantial growth potential at Abore," said Chris Pettman, Galiano's Vice President of Exploration. "Mineralization remains open at depth throughout the entire 1,600m strike length, with these latest findings suggesting the Abore mineralizing system may be considerably more extensive than previously understood."

These results not only strengthen confidence in the current reserve model, but also point to the potential for future underground development. Galiano says establishing its first underground resource is a top priority in 2025.

Centerra Gold Inc. (NYSE: CGAU) (TSX: CG) recently updated the mineral resource at its Kemess project in British Columbia, now holding 2.7 million ounces of indicated gold and 971 million pounds of indicated copper. The 2024 drilling campaign has improved geological confidence and supported a shift to a longhole open stoping plan, replacing the previous block cave model. With existing infrastructure already in place, including a 50,000 tpd plant and 380km power line, Kemess could see reduced execution risk compared to greenfield projects.

"The updated mineral resource published today demonstrates robust mineralization in the highly prospective Toodoggone district in the northern interior of British Columbia," said Paul Tomory, President and CEO of Centerra Gold. "We are moving forward with a Preliminary Economic Assessment on Kemess, using an open pit and longhole open stoping underground mining concept, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2025."

At the end of March, Omai Gold Mines Corp. (TSXV: OMG) (OTCQB: OMGGF) reported multiple high-grade intercepts from its Wenot deposit in Guyana, including 10.40 g/t gold over 10.5m (capped), 2.13 g/t over 48.5m, and 3.83 g/t over 18.8m in hole 25ODD-101.

"These new Wenot results provide strong additions to our 2025 drill program focused on resource expansion," said Elaine Ellingham, President and CEO of Omai. "We believe the potential for value creation through the drill bit continues to be strong."

These latest results extend mineralization well below the 2024 resource and PEA pit shell. The company has expanded its 2025 drill program from 10,000m to at least 15,000m and is fully funded with C$30 million in the treasury.

i-80 Gold Corp. (NYSE-American: IAUX) (TSX: IAU) recently delivered a 67% year-over-year revenue increase in Q1 2025, selling nearly 5,000 ounces of gold at a record average price of $2,825/oz.

"At Granite Creek Underground, i-80 Gold's first gold project to ramp up, we are making good progress in our dewatering efforts, addressing groundwater inflows by enhancing our pumping capacity and upgrading the water treatment infrastructure," said Richard Young, President and CEO of i-80. "These improvements should allow us to ramp-up to steady state of gold output in the second half of 2025."

Development at Granite Creek advanced with improved dewatering infrastructure, while permitting progressed at Archimedes (Ruby Hill) and Cove. The company finalized PEAs for all five core projects, which collectively carry an after-tax NPV of $1.6 billion at $2,175 gold.

Article Source: https://equity-insider.com/2025/04/14/with-funding-commitments-in-place-a-gold-mine-is-being-built-and-this-stock-is-still-under-0-20/

CONTACT:

Equity Insider

info@equity-insider.com

(604) 265-2873

DISCLAIMER: Nothing in this publication should be considered as personalized financial advice. We are not licensed under securities laws to address your particular financial situation. No communication by our employees to you should be deemed as personalized financial advice. Please consult a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decision. This is a paid advertisement and is neither an offer nor recommendation to buy or sell any security. We hold no investment licenses and are thus neither licensed nor qualified to provide investment advice. The content in this report or email is not provided to any individual with a view toward their individual circumstances. Equity Insider is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Market IQ Media Group, Inc. ("MIQ"). This article is being distributed for Baystreet.ca media corp, who has been paid a fee for an advertising from a shareholder of the Company (333,333 unrestricted shares). MIQ has not been paid a fee for Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. advertising or digital media, but the owner/operators of MIQ also co-owns Baystreet.ca Media Corp. ("BAY") There may also be 3rd parties who may have shares of Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. and may liquidate their shares which could have a negative effect on the price of the stock. This compensation constitutes a conflict of interest as to our ability to remain objective in our communication regarding the profiled company. Because of this conflict, individuals are strongly encouraged to not use this publication as the basis for any investment decision. The owner/operator of MIQ/BAY own shares of Lake Victoria Gold Ltd and reserve the right to buy and sell, and will buy and sell shares of Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. at any time without any further notice commencing immediately and ongoing. We also expect further compensation as an ongoing digital media effort to increase visibility for the company, no further notice will be given, but let this disclaimer serve as notice that all material, including this article, which is disseminated by MIQ on behalf of BAY has been approved by Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. Technical information relating to Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. has been reviewed and approved by David Scott, Pr. Sci. Nat., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Scott is a registered member of the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) and is a Director of Lake Victoria Gold Ltd., and therefore is not independent of the Company; this is a paid advertisement, we currently own shares of Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. and will buy and sell shares of the company in the open market, or through private placements, and/or other investment vehicles. While all information is believed to be reliable, it is not guaranteed by us to be accurate. Individuals should assume that all information contained in our newsletter is not trustworthy unless verified by their own independent research. Also, because events and circumstances frequently do not occur as expected, there will likely be differences between the any predictions and actual results. Always consult a licensed investment professional before making any investment decision. Be extremely careful, investing in securities carries a high degree of risk; you may likely lose some or all of the investment.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/golds-return-to-3-400-spurs-sector-gains-amid-4-000-forecasts-302448803.html
Arion Bank reports net earnings attributable to shareholders of Arion Bank of ISK 6.4bn in Q1 2025. Investor meeting and webcast in English on 8 May at 10:30 CEST (8:30 GMT)

Financial highlights for the first quarter 2025

Arion Bank reports net earnings attributable to shareholders of Arion Bank of ISK 6.4bn in Q1 2025, compared with ISK 4.4bn in Q1 2024

Return on equity attributable to shareholders of Arion Bank was 12.8%, compared with 9.1% in Q1 2024

Earnings per share in ISK of 4.59, compared with 3.07 in Q1 2024

Net interest margin of 3.1%, the same as in Q1 2024

Net commission income was ISK 4.5bn, compared with ISK 3.4bn in Q1 2024, making it the best quarter in terms of fees since 2022

Operation of Vordur improved from the first quarter in the previous year, contributing a standalone net loss of ISK 0.6bn in the first quarter of 2025

Other operating income was ISK 3.3bn due to a valuation increase in development assets

Core income, defined as net interest income, net commission income and insurance service results (excluding opex of the insurance operation), increased by 15.4%, compared with Q1 2024

Operating expenses increased by 0.7%, compared with Q1 2024

Effective tax rate was 32.2%

Total cost-to-core income ratio was 42.6%, compared with 48.4% in Q1 2024

Cost-to-income ratio was 34.7%, compared with 45.3% Q1 2024

The balance sheet increased by 4.2% during the quarter

Loans to customers increased by ISK 3.9bn or 0.3% during the quarter

Share buybacks and dividend payments totalled ISK 19.1bn in the quarter

The Bank's capital ratio was 21.5% and the CET1 ratio was 18.3% at the end of March. The ratios are determined on the basis of the unaudited net earnings in the quarter and take into account the deduction of 50% of net earnings as foreseeable divided in line with the Bank's dividend policy. The Group's capital ratio, as calculated under the Financial Undertakings Act No. 161/2002, was 21.2% and the CET1 ratio was 17.9%. These ratios comfortably exceed the requirements made by the FSA and Icelandic law.

Benedikt Gislason, CEO of Arion Bank

"Arion Bank's financial results for the first quarter are in line with our targets despite certain challenges in the external environment. We enjoyed solid momentum throughout almost the entire business, underlining the fact that one of Arion's key strengths lies in the diversity of services which cover virtually all areas of finance for households, companies and investors. Our revenue streams are highly diverse, engendering greater stability and helping risk distribution in our operations. The Group remains financially robust and the capital and liquidity positions are strong, which allows us to enhance our services and to deal with the various challenges posed by our external environment.

Indeed, developing and consolidating our range of services has been a key priority in recent months and will continue to be so. This applies equally to our digital channels and the personal services we provide at our branches and in the call centre. The results of these efforts can clearly be seen in the popularity of the Arion app. New features launched at the beginning of the year include a new customer rewards scheme in the Arion app. Rewards are determined by how many services customers obtain from the Arion Group, whether this be banking services from Arion Bank, such as deposits, payment cards and mortgages, home insurance from Vorur or investments in Stefnir funds. These services also include pensions, both those options offered by Arion Bank under the Lifeyrisauki name, and the supplementary savings which people have entrusted to Frjalsi Pension Fund, which itself is administered and asset managed by Arion Bank. We have ambitious plans to evolve the scheme, where we reward our customers for choosing us as partners to help manage their household finances.

An important milestone was reached in the quarter when the town of Garabr approved the land use plan for the Arnarland development site. The objective of the new land use plan is to create a vibrant neighbourhood with homes, services and commercial activity. It will be a diverse neighbourhood, with plans to construct 450 homes, local services and a health cluster focused on companies in the health and hi-tech sectors. Landey, a property development company owned by Arion Bank, has a 51% interest in Arnarland and this new phase therefore has a positive impact on Arion's results this quarter. Other assets owned by Landey include land, property and industrial property at two other locations in south-west Iceland. Landey's objective is to increase the value of its assets through the continued development of these sites."

Investor meeting / webcast in English on 8 May at 10:30 CEST (8:30 GMT)

Arion Bank will be hosting a meeting at the Bank's headquarters in Borgartun 19, Reykjavik, on Thursday 8 May at 10:30 CEST (8:30 GMT) where CEO Benedikt Gislason will present the results and Chief Economist Erna Bjorg Sverrisdottir will give an update on the economic environment. The meeting will take place in English and will also be streamed live.

The webcast will be accessible live on Lumiconnect and a link is also available on the Bank's website under Investor Relations.

Participants attending virtually will be able to ask questions during the meeting through a message board on the same site. Answers will be provided by presenters at the end of the webcast.

Financial calendar

Arion Bank's financial calendar is available on the Bank's website.

For further information please contact:

Theodor Fribertsson, Investor Relations at Arion Bank, ir@arionbanki.is, tel. +354 856 6760 or Haraldur Guni Eisson, Head of Corporate Communications, samskiptasvid@arionbanki.is, tel. +354 856 7108.

This information is information that Arion Bank is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact persons set out above, at 2025-05-07 15:31 GMT.
REGULATED INFORMATION Paris, May 7, 2025 5:45 PM

YOUR LEASING SOLUTION FOR SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT

Proposal to transfer the listing of TOUAX shares

from the Euronext Paris market to the Euronext Growth Paris market

At the Combined General Meeting to be held on June 12, 2025, the company TOUAX SCA will submit to the vote of its shareholders, in the sixteenth ordinary resolution, a proposal for the delisting of TOUAX SCA shares from Euronext Paris and their concomitant admission to trading on Euronext Growth Paris, as well as the authorization given to the Managing Partners to implement this market transfer, within 12 months of the General Meeting.

Reasons for the transfer project

This transfer would enable TOUAX SCA to be listed on a market more appropriate to its size and activity, and to simplify its operations by reducing the regulatory constraints and costs associated with listing on a regulated market, while continuing to benefit from the advantages of the financial markets.

Subject to the approval of the company's shareholders and the agreement of Euronext Paris, this direct listing on Euronext Growth Paris will be carried out via an accelerated admission to trading for the company's existing shares, without the issue of new shares.

The company currently meets the conditions required by the rules of the Euronext Growth market to qualify for this transfer, i.e. a market capitalization of less than one billion euros and a free float of at least 2.5 million euros.

Euronext Growth is not a regulated market, but an organized multilateral trading facility whose rules are approved by the Autorite des Marches Financiers (AMF).

Periodic information

The company will continue to publish, within four months of the end of the financial year, an annual report including its annual (and consolidated) financial statements, a management report and the Auditors' reports. The disclosure requirements for the management report and the corporate governance report will be simplified.

A half-yearly report including the half-yearly consolidated financial statements and an activity report relating to these financial statements will continue to be published within four months of the half-yearly closing. The three-month publication deadline on the Euronext market has been extended by one month on the Euronext Growth market. The half-yearly financial statements are exempt from a limited review by the Statutory Auditors on the Euronext Growth market, but will continue to be audited for contractual reasons. On the other hand, the company will not continue to publish its quarterly financial information, limited to revenues, which are no longer mandatory on the Euronext Growth market, and which provide little added value as they are not very representative of the company's performance over the short term.

The choice of accounting standards (French or IFRS) for the preparation of the consolidated financial statements is unrestricted on the Euronext Growth market. In the interests of transparency for investors and shareholders, the company has chosen to continue to apply IFRS.

Ongoing information

The company will continue to disclose to the public any information likely to have a significant impact on its share price (insider information). As Euronext Growth is a multilateral trading facility, the company will continue to be subject to the provisions applicable to ongoing market disclosure, and more specifically to the provisions of the Market Abuse Regulation ("MAR").

In addition, senior executives and managers will continue to be subject to the obligation to declare transactions involving the company's shares.

Annual General Meetings

The press release specifying how documents submitted to the Annual General Meeting are to be made available will no longer be required.

Preparatory documents for the Annual General Meeting and other documents (including the total number of voting rights and shares in existence on the date of publication of the advance notice) will no longer be posted online twenty-one days before the date of the Annual General Meeting, but on the date of the notice of meeting, with reduced content.

It will no longer be compulsory to post voting results and minutes on the company's website.

The company will no longer be subject to the "say on pay" system, but transparency and good governance will continue to apply, as the remuneration of Touax SCA's Managing Partners is set out in the Articles of Association, and any changes are subject to a vote at an Extraordinary General Meeting.

The procedures for convening meetings and the conditions for admission to the general meeting will remain unchanged; the company will no longer be obliged to provide live broadcasts of its meetings, or to post recordings of them on its website.

Disclosure thresholds - Public offering

For a period of three years from the date of listing of the company's shares on Euronext Growth Paris, shareholders of companies listed on Euronext (regulated market) will continue to be required to declare their intention to acquire the company's shares. The takeover bid provisions applicable to companies listed on Euronext will also remain applicable for a period of three years from the date of admission to Euronext Growth.

At the end of this three-year period, from the date of listing on Euronext Growth, shareholders will be required to report to the AMF and the company only if they exceed or fall below the 50% and 90% thresholds for the company's capital or voting rights. Within four trading days of becoming aware of the crossing of the 50% and 90% shareholding or voting rights thresholds, the company must make these public. The company will then be subject to the regulations applicable to companies listed on Euronext Growth. Accordingly, the filing of a mandatory tender offer will only be required in the event of a direct or indirect, single or joint, upward crossing of the 50% threshold in terms of capital or voting rights.

Impact on share liquidity :

It is specified that the liquidity contract entered into by the company will be maintained after the market transfer.

Indicative timetable for the operation

Subject to approval of the proposed transfer by the Combined General Meeting and the agreement of Euronext, the shares will be listed on Euronext Growth Paris at least two months after the AGM.

May 7, 2025: Publication of a press release on the transaction.

June 12, 2025: Combined General Meeting to vote on the proposed transfer to Euronext Growth and delegation of powers to the Managing Partners; Immediate public disclosure of the transfer decision and indicative timetable, subject to final approval by Euronext.

June 13, 2025: Submission of transfer request file to Euronext.

D-5 before transfer: Euronext Admissions Committee decision.

D-2 before the transfer: Publication of notices of delisting from the regulated market and admission to the unregulated market.

August 13, 2025 at the earliest: Delisting of shares from Euronext and admission to Euronext Growth.

Gilbert Dupont will act as Listing Sponsor for the company's transfer to Euronext Growth Paris.

Shareholders will be kept informed of the progress of this market transfer project by means of press releases available on the company's website and distributed via its news feed.

*******

The TOUAX Group leases tangible assets (freight wagons, river barges and containers) every day throughout the world, both for its own account and on behalf of investors. With nearly 1.3 billion euros under management, TOUAX is one of Europe's leading leasing companies for this type of equipment.

TOUAX SCA is listed in Paris on EURONEXT - Euronext Paris Compartment C (ISIN code FR0000033003) and is included in the CAC Small, CAC Mid & Small and EnterNextPEA-PME 150 indices.

For further information: www.touax.com

TOUAXSEITOSEI - ACTIFIN

Fabrice & Raphael WALEWSKI Ghislaine Gasparetto

Managers

touax@touax.com ghislaine.gasparetto@seitosei-actifin.com

www.touax.com Tel: +33 1 56 88 11 11

Tel: +33 1 46 96 18 00

Attachment
Cash subsidy valued at up to 1.22 billion PLN is one of the largest grants ever offered by Poland's Ministry of Economic Development and Technology

WARSAW, Poland, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Ministry of Economic Development and Technology in Poland today offered Ascend Elements up to USD $320 million to support construction of a sustainable precursor cathode active material (pCAM) manufacturing facility in Poland. pCAM is a high-value, precisely engineered material used in the manufacture of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and other advanced industrial applications. The cash subsidy of 1.22 billion Polish Zloty (PLN) is one of the largest grants ever offered by the Republic of Poland. As part of the E.U.'s Temporary Crisis and Transition Framework (TCTF), the grant is designed to support Europe's transition to a net-zero economy.

"This offer of support from the Polish government marks a significant step forward in Ascend Elements' European growth strategy," said Linh Austin, President and CEO at Ascend Elements. "We are committed to building a sustainable battery materials supply chain on both sides of the Atlantic, and we greatly appreciate the Ministry's offer of significant financial support."

Ascend Elements has already identified a location in Poland for the construction of its first advanced battery materials (pCAM) manufacturing facility in Europe. CEO Linh Austin met with Poland's Secretary of State Michal Jaros at the Polish Ministry of Economic Development and Technology in Warsaw on Wednesday to receive the grant offer.

"Battery sector projects are a key part of PAIH's investment portfolio," said Pawel Pudlowski, Ph.D., Vice President of the Management Board at the Polish Investment and Trade Agency (PAIH). "The Ascend Elements project is one of the largest U.S. investments in recent years, strengthening Poland's role in the battery supply chain and supporting regional development, including technology development and cooperation with local educational institutions."

Ascend Elements plans to commercialize its innovative technology for the manufacture of sustainable nickel, manganese, and cobalt (NMC) pCAM made from recycled lithium-ion battery materials at the new facility in Poland.

"We are deeply grateful for the support of the Polish government and thrilled to expand our presence in Europe," said Tomasz Poznar, Ph.D., Senior Vice President of Commercial at Ascend Elements.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2681603/Ascend_Elements___Linh_Austin_and_Michal_Jaros.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1930392/Ascend_Elements_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/republic-of-poland-offers-ascend-elements-up-to-usd-320-million-to-support-construction-of-lithium-ion-battery-materials-plant-in-poland-302448830.html
MADRID, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Jakala, a leading European company specialising in data, artificial intelligence and digital experiences, presented the latest technological trends on how brands can use customer data correctly, activate it intelligently, and manage consent and preferences transparently and securely.

To address this critical issue, Jakala launched a new event format, Digital Drink, held in Madrid. The gathering combined presentations from industry leaders, spaces for conversation and debate, and a high-end gastronomic experience featuring wines from Cepa 21 and selected hams from Enrique Tomas. Supported by OneTrust, a technology leader in responsible data use, the event brought together more than twenty major companies, including Dia, Mutua Madrilena, Bankinter, Banco Santander and Vodafone.

A key theme to emerge was how consumers are increasingly sensitive to the use of their data, with their willingness to share it closely tied to concerns about privacy. "All companies aim to offer their customers an optimal experience, but to do so we need their consent to use their data," said Javier Sevilla, Regional Sales Director at OneTrust Iberia & LATAM.

The discussion also highlighted the risks of data misuse. "More than 40% of customers decide to subscribe to or cut ties with a brand based on how their data is handled," noted Javier Oliete, Managing Director at Jakala. He warned that, under sales pressure, companies sometimes prioritise short-term goals over proper data management, which ultimately harms the business.

Participants learned how the OneTrust platform enables responsible data management, and how Jakala integrates it into digital marketing strategies to protect brand reputation. "We support clients from the moment data is collected through to obtaining user consent. We make it clear why data is gathered and how it will be used, then implement privacy policies, risk assessments and automated data flows in line with regulations," added Sevilla.

Several Jakala clients also shared their experiences. Alejandro Garcia Baena, Head of Digital Business at Ilunion Hotels, said the main challenge today is explaining clearly to users the purpose of data collection: "It's not about exploiting databases for corporate gain but about improving the user experience."

David Carro, Senior Digital Leader at Digital & AI Booster, added: "Users are not so much reluctant as fickle - they unsubscribe from any communication channel they find irrelevant. Giving them control over topics and channels is key to building brand trust."

Ivan Izquierdo, Head of IT Transformation at Mutua Madrilena, stressed: "OneTrust has solved a major issue for many companies: ensuring compliance with all current legal requirements. For large corporate groups, the ability to manage permissions and clauses centrally across different companies is particularly important."

For more information:

Press Office LaPresse - ufficio.stampa@lapresse.it

A video accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/aa820b7b-c906-456a-b220-68f61d896201
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Scottie Resources Corp. (TSXV: SCOT) (OTCQB: SCTSF) (FSE: SR80) ("Scottie" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the completion of a maiden Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate of 703,000 ounces of gold consisting of 528,000 ounces at 8.7 g/t of underground resources and 174,000 ounces at 3.2 g/t in the shallow pit constrained resource, for its 100% owned Scottie Gold Mine Project, which includes the historic mine and the adjacent Blueberry Contact Zone that are located 35 kilometres north of the town of Stewart, BC, along the Granduc Road.

Highlights:

High-quality Maiden Mineral Resource Estimate: Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE") of 703,000 ounces of gold at an average grade of 6.1 g/t gold and assumes a phased open pit and underground mining scenario. The opportunity to further expand both the open pit and underground resources exists as the deposits are open in several directions. Tables 1 and 3 provides summaries of the mineral resource and sensitivity to cutoff grade.

Optimized for DSO Concept: The MRE was designed around mining a shallow open pit in the initial years, minimizing initial capital and using early cashflows to fund the development of the higher-grade underground resources. The high-quality ounces contained within the MRE will be further leveraged when coupled with the recent excellent sorting study results (NR April 1, 2025). The pit provides a potential short ramp up phase to production, flexibility, and low operational risk. This is complemented by the higher-grade underground resource which commands higher payable terms from Asian smelters, avoiding the need for a processing plant on site. The envisioned project greatly benefits from existing infrastructure, including roads, close proximity to a deep-water shipping port, and nearby power lines. By design the DSO project will be a high-margin, variable cost model with industry leading low initial capital costs resulting in a quick investment payback.

Upside Exploration Potential: During the 2025 exploration drilling campaign Scottie will focus on converting the resources from inferred to indicated with infill drilling as well as expansionary drilling on high quality targets close to the deposits. The company notes a particular benefit in targeting the un-drilled pit-constrained envelope on the siltstone side of the deposit (a high-confidence target), as any additional ounces discovered will convert waste to resources and significantly improve the contained ounces. Exploration around the rest of the project will target zones that offer significant upside potential to provide high-grade resources near infrastructure, for example the newly discovered Wolf Zone (NR December 12, 2024).

Advancing to a Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA"): With a positive MRE in place, Scottie will continue to accelerate the project and expects to complete a DSO based PEA before the end of 2025.

Industry Leading Discovery Performance and Costs: The resource at the Blueberry Contact Zone constitutes only approximately 43,000 metres of drilling in 269 holes (97% drilled in the past 6 years) for a very low discovery cost of 12.25 gold ounces discovered per metre drilled. At the historical Scottie Gold Mine, the resource constitutes approximately 45,000 metres of drilling (31% drilled in the past 6 years) for a discovery cost of 3.56 gold ounces discovered per metre drilled. Scottie Resource's weighted average all-inclusive drill cost over the past 6 years is $357.50 per metre (Table 2).

Brad Rourke, President and CEO of Scottie stated: "The release of the MRE is a significant milestone for the company as we advance our DSO project through studies towards production. Establishing a high-grade base resource is the first step in clearly illustrating the high margin value of Scottie's road-accessible deposits. A key aspect for us was the limited drilling needed to characterize this initial resource, which we believe signifies the considerable upside available through continued exploration. The more we drill the more high-quality gold we find, and this upcoming season will exemplify that as we plan on executing our largest program to date."

Table 1: Summary and Sensitivity of Inferred MRE for the Scottie Gold Mine Project.

Blueberry Pit Resource Source Cutoff Au Tonnage Au NSR Au Metal (g/t) (ktonnes) (g/t) ($CDN) (kOz) Blueberry Pit (Inferred) 0.25 2,887 2.06 156.04 191 0.3 2,712 2.17 164.69 190 0.5 2,114 2.68 202.51 182 0.7 1,707 3.17 239.73 174 1 1,323 3.85 290.19 164 2.5 600 6.61 492.83 128 5 273 10.35 755 91 Total Underground Resource Source Cutoff Au Tonnage Au NSR Au Metal (g/t) (ktonnes) (g/t) ($CDN) (kOz) Blueberry and Scottie Mine Underground (Inferred) 2.5 1,897 8.66 678.51 528 3 1,704 9.33 731 511 3.5 1,549 9.94 778.78 495 4 1,404 10.59 829.04 478 4.5 1,269 11.26 881.69 459 5 1,143 11.98 937.99 440 10 520 18.05 1,413.75 302

Inferred varies 3,604 6.06 470.69 703

Notes to the 2025 Resource Table:

Resources are reported using the 2014 CIM Definition Standards and were estimated using the 2019 CIM Best Practices Guidelines, as required National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") The base case MRE has been confined by "reasonable prospects of eventual economic extraction" shape using the following assumptions:

Metal price of US$2000/oz gold

Metallurgical recovery of 90% gold

Payable metal of 99% gold in dore

Forex of 0.74 $US:$CDN

Processing costs of CDN$24 / tonne milled, which includes milling, transport, smelter treatment, refining and General & Administrative (G&A) costs

Underground production cost of CDN$78 / tonne, and underground development costs to be CDN$90 / tonne, for a total underground mining cost of CDN$168 / tonne

Open pit mining costs of CDN$3.00 / tonne for mineralized and waste material

45-degree pit slopes

The 130% price case pit shell is used for the confining shape with elevation adjustment of the main Blueberry pit for the underground resource.

The resulting net smelter return is NSR = Au g/t* CDN$98.60 / g * 90% recovery rate Numbers may not add due to rounding Mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. There is no certainty that all or any part of the estimated mineral resources will be converted into mineral reserves

Maiden Mineral Resource Estimate

The Inferred MRE is comprised of 703,000 ounces of gold contained within 3.6 million tonnes grading an average of 6.1 g/t gold (Table 1) and assumes a combined open pit and underground mining operation. The resource contains the Scottie Gold Mine and the Blueberry Contact Zone (including the Bend vein). The road accessible deposits comprise intrusion-related Au-pyrrhotite mineralization hosted in early Jurassic-aged intermediate volcanics and fine-grained sediments.

The MRE for the Scottie Gold Mine Project has been estimated using a 2.5 g/t gold cutoff for the underground resources and a 0.7 g/t gold cutoff for the open pit. These cutoffs more than cover the cost as summarized in the Notes to Table 1 and therefore satisfy the requirements of reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction. Tables 2 summarizes the underground resource at each deposit separately, illustrating the sensitivity of the resource to the cutoff grade.

The base case NSR calculations is done at a gold price of US$2000, well below the current spot price of more than US$3200, and below the 3-year trailing average. The planned PEA will estimate the sensitivity of the project's economics to the gold price.

Due to the factors governing a DSO project, the resource team prioritized high-grade minable ounces (small pit, high-grade underground) over a larger resource with lower grades (deep open pit) in the maiden MRE in order to maximize profit. Further optimization of the pit depth and mine sequencing will be particular focuses in the upcoming PEA study.

Table 2: Drill hole statistics on the MRE and Scottie Gold Mine Project



Scottie Gold Mine Blueberry # Pre-2019 Drill Holes 392 21 2019-2024 Drill Holes (% of total) 53 (31%) 248 (97%) Total # Drill Holes 445 269 Total Metres Drilled 44,962 43,104 Holes in Resource 299 210 Metres in Resource 30,261 36,129 % Holes in Resource 67% 78% % Metres in Resource 67% 84% Gold Oz in Resource 160k 542k Gold Oz Discovered Per M 3.6 12.6

Table 3: Breakdown and Sensitivity of Underground Inferred MRE for the Scottie Gold Mine and Blueberry Contact Zone

Blueberry Underground Resource Source Cutoff Au Tonnage Au NSR Au Metal (g/t) (ktonnes) (g/t) ($CDN) (kOz) Blueberry Underground 2.5 1,200 9.54 747.2 368 3 1,092 10.22 800.2 359 3.5 1,013 10.76 842.41 350 4 931 11.38 890.99 341 4.5 846 12.09 946.81 329 5 775 12.76 999.57 318 10 405 18.04 1,412.86 235 Scottie Underground Resource Class Cutoff Au Tonnage Au NSR Au Metal (g/t) (ktonnes) (g/t) ($CDN) (kOz) Scottie Underground 2.5 697 7.15 560.26 160 3 612 7.76 607.52 153 3.5 536 8.41 658.52 145 4 473 9.03 707.09 137 4.5 423 9.60 751.44 130 5 368 10.32 808.31 122 10 115 18.09 1,416.87 67

National Instrument 43-101 Disclosure

The effective date of the MRE, completed by Moose Mountain Technical Services is February 2, 2025. The Company will file a National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101) technical report on SEDAR+ within the mandated 45-day period following the date of this press release.

Sue Bird, P.Eng., of Moose Mountain Technical Services, who is independent of the Company, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information herein regarding the Scottie Gold Mine Project. Ms. Bird was responsible for the Scottie Gold Mine Project Mineral Resource Estimate and has approved the information pertaining to the Scottie Gold Mine Project in this news release.

The QP for the Mineral Resource Estimate is not aware of any environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-economic, marketing, political, or other relevant factors that could materially affect the potential development of Mineral Resource Estimate. Factors that may affect the estimates include: metal price assumptions, changes in interpretations of mineralization geometry and continuity of mineralization zones, changes to interpolation assumptions, metallurgical recovery assumptions, operating cost assumptions, confidence in the modifying factors, including assumptions that surface rights to allow mining infrastructure to be constructed will be forthcoming, delays or other issues in reaching agreements with local or regulatory authorities and stakeholders, and changes in land tenure requirements or in permitting requirement.

Dr. Thomas Mumford, P.Geo. has reviewed the technical information contained in this news release on behalf of the Company.

Each of Ms. Bird, and Dr. Mumford are Qualified Persons as defined in NI 43-101.

ABOUT SCOTTIE RESOURCES CORP.

Scottie owns a 100% interest in the Scottie Gold Mine Property which includes the Blueberry Contact Zone and the high-grade, past-producing Scottie Gold Mine. Scottie also owns 100% interest in the Georgia Project which contains the high-grade past-producing Georgia River Mine, as well as the Cambria Project properties and the Sulu and Tide North properties. Altogether Scottie Resources holds approximately 58,500 hectares of mineral claims in the Stewart Mining Camp in the Golden Triangle.

The Company's focus is on expanding the known mineralization around the past-producing mines while advancing near mine high-grade gold targets, with the purpose of delivering a potential resource.

All of the Company's properties are located in the area known as the Golden Triangle of British Columbia which is among the world's most prolific mineralized districts.

Additional Information

This news release may contain 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. 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 forward looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date such statements were made. The Company 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.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy of accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251148

SOURCE: Scottie Resources Corp.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday that water from India that once flowed across borders will be stopped, days after suspending a key water treaty with arch-rival Pakistan.

New Delhi has blamed Islamabad for backing a deadly attack on tourists on the Indian side of contested Kashmir last month, sparking a series of heated threats and diplomatic tit-for-tat measures.

Pakistan rejects the accusations, and the two nuclear-armed neighbours have exchanged nightly gunfire since April 24 along the de facto border in Kashmir, the militarised Line of Control, according to the Indian army.

Modi did not mention Islamabad specifically, but his speech comes after New Delhi suspended its part of the 65-year-old Indus Waters Treaty, which governs water critical to parched Pakistan for consumption and agriculture.

"India's water used to go outside, now it will flow for India", Modi said in a speech in New Delhi.

"India's water will be stopped for India's interests, and it will be utilised for India."

Pakistan has warned that tampering with its rivers would be considered "an act of war".

But experts also pointed out that India's existing dams do not have the capacity to block or divert water, and can only regulate timings of when it releases flows.

A day earlier, United Nations chief Antonio Guterres said relations between Pakistan and India had reached a "boiling point", warning that "now is the time for maximum restraint and stepping back from the brink" of war.

Islamabad on Tuesday accused India of altering the flow of the Chenab River, one of three rivers placed under Pakistan's control according to the now suspended treaty.

"We have witnessed changes in the river (Chenab) which are not natural at all," Kazim Pirzada, irrigation minister for Pakistan's Punjab province, told AFP.

Punjab, bordering India and home to nearly half of Pakistan's 240 million citizens, is the country's agricultural heartland, and "the majority impact will be felt in areas which have fewer alternate water routes," Pirzada warned.

"One day the river had normal inflow and the next day it was greatly reduced," Pirzada added.

In Pakistan-administered Kashmir, large quantities of water from India were reportedly released on April 26, according to the Jinnah Institute, a think tank led by a former Pakistani climate change minister.

"This is being done so that we don't get to utilise the water," Pirzada added.

The Indus River is one of the longest in Asia, cutting through ultra-sensitive demarcation lines between India and Pakistan in contested Muslim-majority Kashmir -- a Himalayan territory both countries claim in full.

Modi has said India will "identify, track and punish every terrorist and their backer" who carried out the attack at Pahalgam last month in which 26 mainly Hindu men were shot dead -- and will "pursue them to the ends of the Earth."

Indian police have issued wanted posters for three men suspected of involvement -- two Pakistanis and an Indian -- who they say belong to the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, a UN-designated terrorist organisation.

The Pakistani military has said it has launched two missile tests in recent days, including a test on Saturday of a surface-to-surface missile with a range of 450 kilometres -- about the distance from the Pakistan border to New Delhi.

India on Wednesday is set to hold several civil defence drills preparing people to "protect themselves in the event of a hostile attack".

International pressure has been piled on both New Delhi and Islamabad, who have fought several wars over Kashmir.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected in New Delhi on Wednesday, two days after talks in Islamabad with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Tehran has offered to mediate between the two nuclear-armed nations, and Araghchi will be first senior foreign diplomat to visit both countries since the April 22 attack sent relations into a tailspin.

The United States, as well as the rivals' mutual neighbour China, have both called for leaders to exercise restraint.

Rebels in the Indian-run area have waged an insurgency since 1989, seeking independence or a merger with Pakistan.

India regularly blames its neighbour for backing gunmen behind the insurgency.

Hindu nationalist Modi had already threatened to use water as a weapon in 2016 after an attack in Indian-run Kashmir.

"Blood and water cannot flow together," he said at the time.
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Panoplai, the AI-powered consumer insights platform used by several enterprise-scale brands, including within the FAANG space, today announced the launch of the Panoverse, its new series of interactive data repositories for enterprises-a major product update designed to help teams innovate faster and market more effectively.

The Panoverse ingests, structures, and analyzes fragmented research across internal and external sources. The update extends Panoplai's platform capabilities beyond data collection and digital twin creation to include ingestion of raw and analyzed assets, simplifying centralized insight generation at scale.

The platform now delivers a panoramic view of a wide range of data types, including survey data, social media, interview transcripts, behavioral and POS data, and second-order analysis (decks, PDFs, etc.). Enterprise users can integrate these materials into a structured, searchable system that supports both qualitative and quantitative analysis, and dynamic chats with all of the data, or with digital twins of targeted customer segments, bringing previously disparate insights into a single purpose-built environment that gets smarter over time.

Panoplai Logo

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10129/250906_c9efd34a54b07bd7_001full.jpg

Transforming Heterogeneous Data Into Actionable Insights

"Enterprise teams aren't lacking data-they're buried in it," said Adam Bai, chief strategy officer at Panoplai. "This release allows organizations to unify everything they know about their audiences and markets, and start using that knowledge to make sharper, faster, more confident decisions."

Unlike static repositories, the Panoverse is not a storage apparatus-it's a configurable insight orchestration partner and digital twin generator. Users can upload custom segmentation logic, apply advanced filters, and run structured analysis, including automated crosstabs and statistical comparisons, intuitively. Each insight is linked to source data, creating transparency and eliminating black-box ambiguity.

"The platform doesn't just provide answers; it shows its work," Bai noted. "Every data-backed insight is anchored in its originating research, with references embedded directly into the workflow."

Neil Dixit, CEO of Panoplai

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10129/250906_c9efd34a54b07bd7_002full.jpg

Stronger Foundations for Digital Twins and Enterprise Innovation

Neil Dixit, chief executive officer at Panoplai, said the new capabilities address a critical challenge across the enterprise research ecosystem.

"Global brands are sitting on enormous volumes of unused research and analysis-much of it locked away in PDF decks, spreadsheets, and across disparate platforms and teams," Dixit said. "With this launch, we're giving those teams the tools to bring that data to life-turning it into a living, searchable foundation for real-time innovation and discovery. Imagine product and marketing teams gaining instant customer feedback for new concepts or content."

The new release also enhances the fidelity of Panoplai's digital twin models, allowing clients to simulate consumer behavior with entreprise-grade accuracy and confidence. By drawing from a broader, more structured set of internal and external sources-including previously analyzed material-the platform builds virtual customer segments and entire synthetic datasets with significantly greater depth and precision.

Onboarding Panoplai is fast and efficient considering the complexity of the underlying technology. Most clients can pilot the platform within weeks using existing research assets or custom-created research. Panoplai provides hands-on client support and workflow guidance, along with built-in best practices to streamline early adoption.

"This isn't a consulting project or a black-box chatbot," Bai said. "It's a structured intelligence layer designed to sit on top of the work companies are already doing and make it significantly more powerful."

Scalable and Secure

Underneath it all, the Panoverse is built on a robust infrastructure designed to handle extremely large and complex datasets across formats and sources. Data, files, and feeds are transformed into structured, searchable, and actionable intelligence. With built-in capabilities to generate accurate and reliable synthetic data, Panoplai aims to empower enterprises to simulate real-world responses with confidence. All data is encrypted, secure, and private.

Bespoke versions of the Panoverse are available immediately to enterprise and agency clients.

For more information, visit www.panoplai.com.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/250906

SOURCE: AK Infinite
Majority of 2024 Cyber Insurance Claims Stemmed from Business Email Compromise or Funds Transfer Fraud

Coalition, the world's first Active Insurance provider designed to prevent digital risk before it strikes, today published its 2025 Cyber Claims Report, which details emerging cyber trends and their impact on Coalition policyholders throughout the full year of 2024. The report found that ransomware claims stabilized in 2024 despite remaining the most costly and disruptive type of cyberattack. The majority of 2024 claims (60%) originated from business email compromise (BEC) and funds transfer fraud (FTF) incidents, with 29% of BEC events resulting in FTF.

"Over the past year, our claims data clearly demonstrates one thing: Active Insurance works," said Robert Jones, Head of Global Claims at Coalition. "Combining Coalition's Active Data Graph, which provides a massive amount of data insights, with security tools and incident response, helps Coalition prevent claims from happening in the first place. And, when matters were reported to Coalition, 56% were handled without any out-of-pocket payments by the policyholder. We believe that this proactive engagement is a critical aspect of reducing global cyber risk."

Ransom demands from threat actors decreased in 2024, dropping 22% year-over-year (YoY) to an average of $1.1 million. Notably, the average demand in the latter half of 2024 fell below $1 million for the first time in more than two years. Of all ransomware claims, Akira ransomware was the most prolific variant for Coalition policyholders, accounting for 13% of claims in 2024. The Black Basta variant accounted for just 3% of all ransomware claims, but was the highest in terms of demand, with an average of $4 million.

"While overall claims have stabilized, cyber attackers, and ransomware actors in particular, still pose a tremendous threat to businesses, with the average demand still in the millions of dollars. Unfortunately, ransomware is already back with a vengeance in 2025, as March held the highest volume of public ransomware cases of all time," continued Jones. "Coalition continues to be an active partner in the fight against bad actors. We alert our policyholders to vulnerabilities in their networks, risky security practices, and the best ways to mitigate threats to reduce the impacts of cyber attacks."

In 2024, Coalition's cooperative efforts with authorities and panel partners contributed to the successful clawback of $31 million for policyholders, with an average recovery of $278,000. Coalition has firsthand knowledge that policyholders that quickly report FTF events have a greater likelihood of recovery. Last month, Coalition introduced a new financial incentive in its Active Cyber Policy1. Clients can receive lower retentions when they report FTF incidents within 72 hours of the initial fraudulent transfer, encouraging prompt action to improve the odds of recovery.

Other key findings from the report include:

As claims frequency decreased by 7% YoY, claims severity remained stable.

Ransomware claims frequency decreased by 3% and severity decreased by 7% YoY.

BEC claims severity increased by 23%.

FTF claims frequency decreased by 2% and severity decreased by 46% YoY. The sharp decline in severity follows the all-time high in 2023.

When deemed reasonable and necessary, 44% of policyholders that experienced a ransomware incident opted to pay the ransom. Coalition Incident Response (CIR) was able to negotiate ransom payments down 1 by an average of 60%.

by an average of 60%. Coalition policyholders experienced 73%2 fewer claims than the industry average.

This report presents statistics, charts, and risk insights derived from data collected from Coalition policyholders in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

Download the full 2025 Cyber Claims Report from Coalition to learn more: https://web.coalitioninc.com/download-2025-cyber-claims-report.html.

__________________ 1 Applies to all non-admitted surplus lines new business and renewal quotes in the United States on or after April 15, 2025. Exclusions and limitations apply. See disclaimers and policy as issued. 2 Ransomware negotiation data based on cases handled by Coalition Incident Response, Inc. a wholly-owned affiliate firm of Coalition, Inc. made available to all policyholders as an option via incident response firm panel selection. 3 Industry average based on data reported by US insurers to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). Comparison performed using 2023 claims frequency data from Coalition and NAIC. Claims frequency is calculated using the number of standalone cyber claims reported by the NAIC, divided by the average of standalone cyber policies in force at the current and prior year-ends.

About Coalition

Coalition is the world's first Active Insurance provider designed to help prevent digital risk before it strikes. By combining comprehensive insurance coverage with cybersecurity tools, Coalition helps businesses manage and mitigate potential cyberattacks. Leveraging its relationships with leading global insurers and capacity providers, including Coalition Insurance Company, Coalition offers Active Insurance products to businesses in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Germany, Denmark, and soon in Sweden. Policyholders can receive automated cyber alerts and access expert advice, as well as global third-party risk management tools through Coalition's cyber risk management platform, Coalition Control.

Insurance products are offered by Coalition Insurance Solutions Inc. ("CIS"), a licensed insurance producer and surplus lines broker with its principal place of business in San Francisco, CA (Cal. license #0L76155), acting on behalf of a number of unaffiliated insurance companies and available on an admitted basis through Coalition Insurance Company ("CIC") a licensed insurance underwriter (NAIC 29530). Insurance products offered through CIS and CIC may not be available in all states. Complete license and carrier information is available here. CIS may receive compensation from an insurer or other intermediary in connection with the sale of insurance. All decisions regarding any insurance products referenced herein, including approval for coverage, premium, commission, and fees, will be made solely by the insurer underwriting the insurance under the insurer's then-current criteria. All insurance products are governed by the terms, conditions, limitations, and exclusions set forth in the applicable insurance policy. Please see a copy of your policy for the full terms, conditions, and exclusions. Copyright 2025. All rights reserved. Coalition and the Coalition logo are trademarks of Coalition, Inc. or its affiliates.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250507660315/en/

Contacts:

Marisa Graves

Communications at Coalition

press@coalitioninc.com
HOUSTON, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Core Laboratories Inc. (NYSE: "CLB") ("Core", "Core Lab", or the "Company") is pleased to announce the opening of its new Unconventional Core Analysis Laboratory in Dammam, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This state-of-the-art facility, developed in collaboration with Core's long-time partner, Abdulla Fouad Group, underscores the Company's commitment to advancing reservoir evaluation technologies in the Middle East.

The Company's new analytical laboratory is equipped with advanced proprietary instrumentation designed to provide comprehensive core and fluid analysis services tailored to unconventional reservoirs. By bringing Core Lab's cutting-edge technologies to the region, the facility aims to deliver valuable insights into unconventional reservoir properties, thereby assisting the operator in optimizing the appraisal, development, and production of these unconventional fields.

"The introduction of these laboratory capabilities represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to support the energy sector's evolving needs," said Larry Bruno, CEO of Core Laboratories. "This collaboration with Abdulla Fouad reflects our shared vision of leveraging innovative solutions to address the complexities of unconventional resource development."

This advanced proprietary instrumentation will assist our senior scientists in performing enhanced petrophysical analysis and digital rock characterization, using a number of advanced technologies and analytical techniques, including dual energy CT-scanning, high-frequency Nuclear Magnetic Resonance ("NMR"), and Core's proprietary PRISM workflow. These services are designed to provide clients with detailed reservoir rock and fluid characterization, facilitating informed decision-making throughout the appraisal, development, and production lifecycle.

Core remains focused on strategically expanding its global footprint and enhancing service delivery in key energy markets. The Abdulla Fouad Core Lab facility is poised to become a central hub for unconventional core analysis in the region, reinforcing the Company's position as a leader in reservoir optimization technologies.

Core Laboratories Inc. is a leading provider of proprietary and patented reservoir description and production enhancement services and products used to optimize petroleum reservoir performance. The Company has over 70 offices in more than 50 countries and is located in every major oil-producing province in the world.

Visit the Company's website at www.corelab.com.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/198246/Core_Lab_v2_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/core-laboratories-announces-opening-of-unconventional-core-analysis-laboratory-in-saudi-arabia-302448912.html
Top Four Conveyor Car Wash Company Offers Free Washes at Brand-New Locations

THOMASTON, GEORGIA / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 / Tidal Wave Auto Spa, one of the nation's fastest-growing express car wash companies, is pleased to announce the opening of two brand-new locations in Kissimmee, FL and Port Wentworth, GA .

Official Tidal Wave Auto Spa Logo



To celebrate the grand openings, Tidal Wave's Kissimmee and Port Wentworth locations will offer eight days of free premium car washes from May 7 through May 14. This limited-time promotion provides an opportunity for car owners to experience Tidal Wave's premium wash option, Graph-X4 , at no cost. Additionally, any new customer that joins a Tidal Wave Clean Club unlimited wash membership during Grand Opening week will enjoy their first month of unlimited washes for only $9.97 - saving up to $40.

"We're excited to expand our footprint in central Florida and coastal Georgia this week," said Scott Blackstock, CEO and founder of Tidal Wave Auto Spa. "Our Kissimmee and Port Wentworth locations are designed to deliver the ultimate car wash experience with the speed, quality, and ease our customers have come to expect. Both new locations have other Tidal Wave locations nearby and we are thrilled to bring the added convenience of multiple car wash locations to folks living and working in these communities."

Kissimmee, FL Location : 3090 N Orange Blossom Trail, Kissimmee, FL 34744

Nearby Locations: Orlando, FL , Clermont, FL

Port Wentworth, GA Location : 34 Tidal Wave Court, Port Wentworth, GA 31407

Nearby Locations: Savannah - Abercorn St , Savannah - E Victory Drive

Tidal Wave Auto Spa proudly serves customers at 294 express wash locations across the United States, including twenty-five Florida locations and fifty six Georgia locations . Tidal Wave is committed to providing every customer with an exceptional car wash experience through industry-leading car care technology, clean and attractive locations, and friendly customer service at every location. With single wash options starting at $12, unlimited car wash memberships and family plans , plus, fleet plans for businesses - Tidal Wave has your unique car wash needs covered.

For additional information, including upcoming openings, fundraising, fleet plans, and more, please visit: https://www.tidalwaveautospa.com/ .

About Tidal Wave Auto Spa

Tidal Wave Auto Spa was founded over 20 years ago in Thomaston, GA by husband and wife, Scott and Hope Blackstock. What started as a small-town self-service car wash business, evolved into the first conveyor car wash open in Georgia, and is now the fourth-largest conveyor car wash company in the nation with 294 locations sprawling 30 states. Tidal Wave is committed to providing every customer an exceptional car wash experience through industry-leading car care technology, clean and attractive locations, and outstanding customer service. In 2020, the company partnered with Golden Gate Capital to facilitate their accelerated growth and has been included in the Inc. 5000 list of America's Fastest Growing Companies for the past five years. Tidal Wave has continuously strived to make a positive impact in the communities they serve, and has raised over $3 million dollars for local programs, service organizations, and non-profit organizations through the company's fundraising program and annual philanthropic Charity Day event.

SOURCE: Tidal Wave Auto Spa

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/automotive/tidal-wave-auto-spa-expands-southeastern-footprint-with-grand-openings-in-kissimmee-fl-a-1025075
PUNE, India, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The global Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) Software Market was valued at USD 15,828.51 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 62,175.53 million by 2032, expanding at a robust CAGR of 18.53% over the forecast period from 2024 to 2032. This significant growth reflects the increasing demand for secure, scalable, and remote-accessible desktop environments across enterprises of all sizes. Organizations are rapidly adopting VDI solutions to support hybrid work models, enhance endpoint security, and reduce IT maintenance costs. The technology's ability to centralize desktop management, improve workforce mobility, and support bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies further contributes to its widespread adoption.

Key drivers fueling this market include the surge in remote work, rising concerns over data security, and the growing need for streamlined IT infrastructure. VDI platforms allow businesses to virtualize desktops and applications, enabling users to access their workspace from any device, anytime, with enhanced data protection. Additionally, advancements in cloud computing and increased integration of AI and machine learning in VDI platforms are improving performance and user experience. With increasing investments in digital transformation and IT modernization, particularly in sectors such as BFSI, healthcare, education, and government, the VDI software market is poised for sustained growth throughout the forecast period.

Browse the report and understand how it can benefit your business strategy - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/virtual-desktop-infrastructure-vdi-software-market

Key Growth Determinants

Surge in Remote and Hybrid Work Models:

One of the primary growth drivers for the VDI software market is the global shift toward remote and hybrid working environments. Enterprises across sectors are increasingly deploying VDI solutions to provide secure, flexible access to corporate systems for remote employees. This trend was accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to shape IT infrastructure decisions, prompting long-term investments in virtual desktop environments.

Rising Focus on Data Security and Compliance:

As cyber threats grow in frequency and complexity, organizations are prioritizing secure access to sensitive data and applications. VDI offers centralized data storage and management, reducing the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access. Additionally, the ability to enforce consistent security policies across distributed endpoints makes VDI an attractive solution for industries with strict compliance requirements, such as finance, government, and healthcare.

Cost Efficiency and Simplified IT Management:

VDI software enables organizations to streamline desktop provisioning and management, leading to lower operational and maintenance costs. IT departments benefit from simplified deployment, centralized control, and reduced hardware dependence, especially as virtual desktops can be hosted on less expensive thin clients. This cost-effectiveness is especially beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises seeking to optimize their IT budgets.

Advancements in Cloud and AI Integration:

The integration of cloud computing with VDI solutions has significantly expanded deployment flexibility, scalability, and accessibility. Cloud-based VDI models, including Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS), offer reduced infrastructure requirements and enhanced performance. Moreover, the incorporation of AI and machine learning capabilities enables proactive system monitoring, performance optimization, and predictive analytics, making VDI solutions more intelligent and efficient.

These growth factors, combined with the increasing digitization of workplaces and rising demand for workforce mobility, are expected to drive robust expansion in the VDI software market over the coming years.

Key Growth Barriers

High Initial Setup Costs:

One of the major challenges limiting the adoption of VDI software is the significant upfront investment required. Deploying VDI involves purchasing servers, storage systems, networking components, and software licenses, which can be financially burdensome-especially for small and medium-sized enterprises. These capital-intensive requirements often deter businesses from shifting to virtual environments, despite the long-term benefits.

Performance and Scalability Constraints:

Maintaining optimal performance and scalability in VDI deployments can be technically demanding. Factors such as limited server capacity, network bottlenecks, and high user density can lead to lag, slow application loading times, and user dissatisfaction. Scaling VDI solutions to accommodate more users while maintaining consistent performance requires advanced planning and resource optimization.

Dependency on Network Infrastructure:

VDI systems are highly reliant on stable, high-speed internet connections. In regions with inadequate network infrastructure, users may experience frequent disconnections, latency, and performance drops, hindering productivity. This dependence on reliable connectivity presents a considerable barrier, particularly in developing or rural areas where broadband access may be limited.

Complexity in Deployment and Management:

Implementing VDI involves integrating various components such as hypervisors, storage, networking, and user profile management, which demands skilled IT professionals. The lack of technical expertise and the complexity of managing virtual environments can lead to misconfigurations, increased operational costs, and potential system downtime, posing challenges for organizations with limited IT resources.

Compatibility and Application Limitations:

Not all software applications are optimized for virtual environments. Applications that require high graphical processing power or specialized hardware may perform poorly or be incompatible with VDI platforms. This restricts the range of workloads that can be effectively migrated to a virtual desktop setup, limiting adoption in sectors dependent on resource-intensive applications.

Security and Data Privacy Concerns:

While VDI can centralize data to enhance security, it also introduces new vulnerabilities. A breach at the server level can potentially expose multiple virtual desktops. Moreover, managing compliance with data privacy regulations, particularly in cloud-hosted VDI models, remains a concern for enterprises operating in highly regulated industries.

Segmentation

Deployment Model

On-Premises VDI

Cloud-Based VDI

Hybrid VDI

Organization Size

Small Enterprises

Medium Enterprises

Large Enterprises

End-user Industry

Healthcare

IT and Telecom

Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI)

Others

Access Device Type

Desktop Computers

Laptops

Tablets

Smartphones

Others

Type of Virtualization

Full Virtualization

Paravirtualization

Hardware-Assisted Virtualization

Based on region

North America

The U.S.



Canada



Mexico

Europe

Germany



France



UK.



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



The 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/virtual-desktop-infrastructure-vdi-software-market

Regional Analysis

North America:

North America dominates the global VDI software market, driven by widespread digital transformation, high adoption of cloud computing, and the presence of leading VDI providers. The region's strong IT infrastructure and advanced cybersecurity standards have encouraged enterprises across sectors-such as BFSI, healthcare, and education-to implement VDI solutions. Additionally, the widespread shift to hybrid and remote work has led to increased investments in virtual desktop platforms, particularly in the United States and Canada.

Europe:

Europe holds a substantial share of the VDI market, supported by rising demand for secure and scalable digital workspaces across the corporate and public sectors. Countries like Germany, the UK, and France are witnessing growing adoption of VDI in response to stricter data protection regulations such as the GDPR. Moreover, the increasing focus on operational efficiency, coupled with rising cloud adoption and investments in AI-powered IT solutions, further supports market growth in the region.

Asia-Pacific:

Asia-Pacific is expected to exhibit the fastest growth in the VDI software market over the forecast period. This is primarily due to the rapid expansion of the IT and telecom sectors, increased use of mobile and remote work solutions, and significant investments in cloud infrastructure. Emerging economies such as China, India, and Southeast Asian countries are adopting VDI to enhance workforce flexibility and data security, particularly in small and medium-sized enterprises transitioning toward digital business models.

Latin America and Middle East & Africa (MEA):

The Latin America and MEA regions are gradually adopting VDI technologies, driven by increasing awareness of the benefits of virtual work environments and improving internet infrastructure. In Latin America, Brazil and Mexico are leading adopters, while the Middle East is witnessing increased VDI adoption in sectors such as oil & gas, healthcare, and government. However, growth in these regions may be moderated by limited IT budgets and a shortage of skilled technical professionals.

Credence Research's Competitive Landscape Analysis

The global Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) software market is characterized by the presence of several well-established players, coupled with emerging vendors that are innovating in cloud-based and AI-integrated solutions. The competitive landscape is moderately fragmented, with a mix of global technology giants and specialized VDI solution providers competing based on scalability, security features, cost-efficiency, and user experience.

Leading Players and Market Share Dynamics:

Major players such as Microsoft Corporation, Amazon Web Services (AWS), VMware Inc., Citrix Systems Inc., and Google LLC hold significant market share due to their comprehensive product portfolios, strong brand presence, and global distribution networks. These companies consistently invest in R&D to enhance their offerings with AI, automation, and better cloud integration, helping them retain competitive advantage. Microsoft and AWS, in particular, benefit from their broader cloud ecosystem integration, allowing seamless deployment of VDI as part of larger digital workplace solutions.

Strategic Collaborations and M&A Activities:

The market is witnessing a rise in strategic collaborations, partnerships, and acquisitions aimed at expanding product capabilities and customer reach. For instance, vendors are teaming up with managed service providers and hardware manufacturers to deliver integrated desktop-as-a-service (DaaS) solutions. Mergers and acquisitions are also reshaping the competitive landscape, enabling companies to acquire niche technologies and enter new regional markets.

Innovation and Differentiation:

Smaller players such as V2Cloud Solutions, Fujitsu Ltd., and NEC Corporation are focusing on innovation and customer-centric solutions to differentiate themselves. These companies often offer customizable deployment models, industry-specific features, and strong customer support to attract SMEs and vertical-specific clients. Cloud-native, zero-trust security, and high-performance graphics processing for remote applications are becoming key areas of innovation.

Barriers to Entry and Competitive Pressure:

Despite growing demand, the high capital and technological expertise required for VDI platform development pose a significant barrier to new entrants. Meanwhile, the competitive pressure among incumbents is intensifying, prompting continuous enhancements in performance, user interface, and cost structure. As demand for remote and hybrid work solutions continues to rise, vendors are expected to compete aggressively on scalability, security, and total cost of ownership.

Tailor the report to align with your specific business needs and gain targeted insights. Request Full Report Here - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/virtual-desktop-infrastructure-vdi-software-market

Key Player Analysis

Citrix Systems Inc.

Cisco Systems Inc.

Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd

RedHat Inc

VMware Inc.

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Microsoft Corporation

Google LLC

IBM Corporation

V2Cloud Solutions, Inc.

Fujitsu Ltd.

NEC Corporation

Recent Industry Developments

2021

H2 2021 - Venn Technology introduced Local Zone technology, a SaaS-based solution addressing security and compliance challenges in remote and hybrid work environments. It aimed to deliver a seamless VDI experience by eliminating key operational issues.

2022

June 2022 - Citrix launched Citrix Managed Desktops , a DaaS solution built on Microsoft Azure, enabling simplified management and delivery of virtual apps and desktops.

- Citrix launched , a DaaS solution built on Microsoft Azure, enabling simplified management and delivery of virtual apps and desktops. July 2022 - Nerdio partnered with Rimo3 to help enterprises accelerate deployment of Azure Virtual Desktop by simplifying application testing and delivery.

- Nerdio partnered with Rimo3 to help enterprises accelerate deployment of Azure Virtual Desktop by simplifying application testing and delivery. September 2022 - Amazon Web Services launched Amazon Workspace Core , a suite of APIs to support third-party VDI providers.

- Amazon Web Services launched , a suite of APIs to support third-party VDI providers. October 2022 - VMware released vSphere 8, enhancing virtualization capabilities for application development, deployment, and security.

2023

February 2023 - Leostream deployed its enterprise remote access tool for Japan's ID Networks to improve virtual desktop application performance.

- Leostream deployed its enterprise remote access tool for Japan's ID Networks to improve virtual desktop application performance. June 2023 - Agile Directive partnered with Kasm Technologies to deliver secure remote access, browser isolation, and on-demand virtual desktops.

- Agile Directive partnered with Kasm Technologies to deliver secure remote access, browser isolation, and on-demand virtual desktops. July 2023 - Citrix introduced cloud and on-premise services to support hybrid deployment models, allowing flexibility in application delivery across multi-cloud environments.

- Citrix introduced cloud and on-premise services to support hybrid deployment models, allowing flexibility in application delivery across multi-cloud environments. August 2023 - VMware announced AI integrations into its Anywhere Workspace platform, unifying VDI, endpoint management, and security for an enhanced employee experience.

2024

February 2024 - Cisco and NVIDIA collaborated to simplify secure AI infrastructure deployment, supporting hybrid workforces through AI-driven conferencing and VDI.

- Cisco and NVIDIA collaborated to simplify secure AI infrastructure deployment, supporting hybrid workforces through AI-driven conferencing and VDI. February 2024 - Microsoft launched Azure Virtual Desktop for on-premise environments, offering VDI benefits with on-site control of apps and data.

- Microsoft launched for on-premise environments, offering VDI benefits with on-site control of apps and data. June 2024 - Microsoft introduced VDI enhancements for Microsoft Teams , featuring Slimcore media engine for better performance and streamlined updates.

- Microsoft introduced VDI enhancements for , featuring Slimcore media engine for better performance and streamlined updates. June 2024 - Google acquired Cameyo , boosting its virtual Windows app delivery capabilities on ChromeOS and strengthening its competitive stance against major VDI players.

- Google acquired , boosting its virtual Windows app delivery capabilities on ChromeOS and strengthening its competitive stance against major VDI players. September 2024 - Kasm Technologies launched Kasm Workspace , a Kubernetes-native VDI solution supporting cloud, on-premise, hybrid, and multi-cloud deployments for dynamic workforce requirements.

- Kasm Technologies launched , a Kubernetes-native VDI solution supporting cloud, on-premise, hybrid, and multi-cloud deployments for dynamic workforce requirements. October 2024 - CrowdStrike partnered with Omnissa to enhance real-time threat detection and response in VDI and physical desktop environments.

- CrowdStrike partnered with Omnissa to enhance real-time threat detection and response in VDI and physical desktop environments. 2024 (General) - North America dominated the VDI market with ~30% market share and USD 6 billion revenue, driven by outsourcing, remote work trends, and rising cyber threats.

Reasons to Purchase this Report:

Gain a comprehensive understanding of the market through qualitative and quantitative analyses, considering both economic and non-economic factors, with segmentation and sub-segmentation details provided in terms of market value (USD Billion).

Identify regions and segments expected to experience the fastest growth or dominate the market, with a detailed analysis of geographic consumption patterns and the factors driving or hindering market performance in each region.

Stay informed about the competitive environment, with rankings of major players, recent product and service launches, partnerships, business expansions, and acquisitions from the past five years.

Access detailed profiles of major market players, including company overviews, insights, product benchmarking, and SWOT analysis, to understand competitive advantages and market positioning.

Explore the present and forecasted market landscape, with insights into growth opportunities, market drivers, challenges, and constraints for both developed and emerging regions.

Benefit from Porter's Five Forces analysis and Value Chain insights to evaluate various market perspectives and competitive dynamics.

Understand the evolving market scenario, including potential growth opportunities and trends expected in the coming years.

Browse the report and understand how it can benefit your business strategy -https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/virtual-desktop-infrastructure-vdi-software-market

Discover additional reports tailored to your industry needs

Virtual Machine Market - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/virtual-machine-market

Data Virtualization Cloud Market - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/data-virtualization-cloud-market

Data Center Virtualization Market - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/data-center-virtualization-market

Application Virtualization Market - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/application-virtualization-market

Virtual Workspace Solutions Market - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/virtual-workspace-solutions-market

Virtual Private Server Market - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/virtual-private-server-market

Virtual Infrastructure Manager Market - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/virtual-infrastructure-manager-market

Desktop as a Service Market - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/desktop-as-a-service-market

Follow Us:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/credenceresearch/

https://x.com/CredenceResearc

https://www.facebook.com/CredenceResearch

About Us:

Credence Research is a viable intelligence and market research platform that provides quantitative B2B research to more than 2000 clients worldwide and is built on the Give principle. The company is a market research and consulting firm serving governments, non-legislative associations, non-profit organizations, and various organizations worldwide. We help our clients improve their execution in a lasting way and understand their most imperative objectives.

Contact Us

Mitul Dean

Tower C-1105 , S 25, Akash Tower,

Vishal Nahar, Pimple Nilakh, Haveli,

Pune - 411027, India

sales@credenceresearch.com

www.credenceresearch.com

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2562161/5306789/Credence_Research_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/virtual-desktop-infrastructure-vdi-software-market-to-reach-usd-62-175-53-million-by-2032--growing-at-an-18-53-cagr--credence-research-302448995.html
AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of B (Fair) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of "bb" (Fair) of Uzbekinvest Export-Import Insurance Company, JSC (Uzbekinvest) (Uzbekistan). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

The Credit Ratings (ratings) reflect Uzbekinvest's balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its marginal operating performance, limited business profile and marginal enterprise risk management.

Uzbekinvest's balance sheet strength is underpinned by its risk-adjusted capitalisation at the strongest level, as measured by Best's Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR). AM Best expects the company's BCAR scores to remain above the minimum required for the strongest assessment level, with a sufficient buffer to absorb potential shock losses. In addition, the company has a relatively conservative investment allocation strategy, with approximately half of its investments held in bonds and other fixed income securities outside of Uzbekistan, which are predominantly of excellent credit quality. Furthermore, in recent years, the company's measurement of probable maximum loss has become more sophisticated and supported by a third-party analysis. Going forward, AM Best expects the company to continue to work on its capital management framework and its linkage to strategic decision making, which is currently limited.

The marginal operating performance assessment considers Uzbekinvest's high combined ratios prior to 2023, with overall underwriting results negatively affected by the company's high expense base. For 2023, under IFRS 17, Uzbekinvest has reported a net-net combined ratio of 85% (as calculated by AM Best), which reflects improvement in the underwriting results and greater economies of scale, as well as the transitionary effects from the implementation of IFRS 17. However, the sustainability of these improvements is yet to be demonstrated. In 2024, Uzbekinvest's loss ratio is expected to benefit from the withdrawal of certain loss-making international accounts, while the company's expense ratio is expected to remain elevated.

Uzbekinvest's limited business profile assessment reflects its leading market position in the small, albeit growing, Uzbek insurance market and nascent competitive position in its overseas markets. Over the past several years, the company significantly grew its inward reinsurance portfolio, which accounted for more than 60% of gross written premium in 2024. Although most of this business is written outside of Uzbekistan, the company has shrunk its foreign portfolio, recognising the risks of international reinsurance market exposure and has shifted its strategic focus toward reinsuring domestic risks.

Uzbekinvest is majority owned by the State Assets Management Agency of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The company's relative independence of operations from the state means that no lift or drag is applied to its ratings.

This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best's website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best's Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best's Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best's Credit Ratings, Best's Performance Assessments, Best's Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best's Ratings Assessments.

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Copyright 2025 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250507329750/en/

Contacts:

Todor Kitin, ACA

Senior Financial Analyst

+44 20 7397 0335

todor.kitin@ambest.com



Valeria Ermakova

Associate Director, Analytics

+44 20 7397 0268

valeria.ermakova@ambest.com



Christopher Sharkey

Associate Director, Public Relations

+1 908 882 2310

christopher.sharkey@ambest.com



Al Slavin

Senior Public Relations Specialist

+1 908 882 2318

al.slavin@ambest.com
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - CaNickel Mining Limited (TSXV: CML) ("CaNickel" or the "Company") announces, further to its press release on April 28, 2025, that the Company will hold an Annual General and Special Meeting ("AGSM") on June 11, 2025, for the following purposes:

to receive and consider the audited financial statements of the Company for its financial year ended December 31, 2024, the report of the auditor thereon and the related management discussion and analysis; elect directors of the Company for the ensuing year; to appoint Baker Tilly WM LLP as the auditor of the Company for the ensuing year; and to consider and, if deemed appropriate, pass an ordinary resolution approved by a majority of the minority shareholders of the Company authorizing the delisting of the Company's common shares from the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV") as described in the Management Information Circular that is being mailed to all shareholders as of the record date of May 2, 2025.

With respect to the last item, under TSXV policies, delisting of a listed company when the company does not have an alternative public market requires majority of minority approval, meaning that directors, officers, promoters, and Shareholders holding 10% or more of the Common Shares and their Associates and Affiliates ("Non-Arm's Length Parties") (capitalized terms as defined in TSXV Policy 1.1.) may not vote. Accordingly, none of the Company's directors, officers or promoters, and/or their Associates and Affiliates will be permitted to vote on the resolution to confirm and approve of the Company's delisting from the TSXV. In addition, both King Place Enterprises Limited, which holds 11,517,653 shares of the Company, as well as its affiliate company, Hebei Wenfeng Industrial Group, which holds 2,587,500 shares, will be excluded from voting on the resolution to confirm and approve the Company's delisting from the TSXV. The total number of shares that will be excluded from the delisting vote is 14,105,153, representing 37.6% of the total number of shares outstanding.

Delisting of the Company's shares is conditional upon shareholder approval at the AGSM and final approval of the TSXV. Additional information regarding the Delisting will be disseminated in due course, including the effective date of the Delisting.

New CFO Appointment

The Company has appointed James Dai as its new Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), effectively immediately. Mr. Dai is a seasoned corporate financial advisor for several private companies since 2015. Previously, he served as Director of DXI Capital from March 2015 to August 2017 and as Director of CaNickel from June 2013 to June 2016. Mr. Dai also served as CFO and Corporate Secretary for CaNickel from December 2014 to June 2016.

Mr. Dai succeeds Jerry Zhang, who has served in the capacity of CFO and Corporate Secretary since August 2016. The Company would like to thank Mr. Zhang for his contributions to the company and wish him continued success in his future endeavours.

Shirley Anthony, Chief Executive Officer of CaNickel, will assume the additional responsibilities of Corporate Secretary, effective immediately.

ABOUT CANICKEL

CaNickel Mining Limited is a Canadian junior mining company that currently owns the Bucko Lake Mine, currently on care and maintenance, near Wabowden, Manitoba. From 2009 to 2012, nearly 450,000 tonnes of mineralized material were mined to produce 6.9 million pounds of nickel before the mine was put on care and maintenance due to low nickel prices.

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.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251181

SOURCE: CaNickel Mining Limited
MONTREAL, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Metro Supply Chain has once again been recognized as one of Canada's Best Managed Companies, reaffirming its position as a leader in supply chain innovation and performance. This marks the fifth time the company has received this distinguished award, celebrating a legacy of excellence over 50 years.

"This achievement is a testament to the remarkable culture and dedication our team demonstrates daily," stated Chris Fenton, Group President and CEO of Metro Supply Chain. "Founded by our Group Chairman, Chiko Nanji, our organization has consistently been driven by a growth mindset and an emphasis on serving our customers with agility and innovation. It is an honour to accept this award on behalf of our 9,000 team members across more than 175 sites in North America and Europe."

Canada's Best Managed Companies program honours privately owned Canadian businesses that demonstrate outstanding strategy, capability and commitment to achieving sustainable growth. The 2025 Best Managed cohort exemplifies bold leadership, innovation and resilience, helping to strengthen the Canadian economy and shape the future of global business.

"Over the 32-year history of these awards, Canadian companies have shown resilience and adaptability through economic highs and lows, and this year is no different," said Lorrie King, national co-leader of Canada's Best Managed Companies program and partner with Deloitte Private. "We are honoured to recognize this year's Best Managed Companies across Canada, who excel in all aspects of their business. These companies all help drive Canada's productivity and innovation, which bolsters our economy, so it's important to recognize their accomplishments and showcase them as examples and inspiration to the broader business community."

About Metro Supply Chain

Metro Supply Chain partners with some of the world's most respected and fastest-growing companies to deliver custom, data-driven supply chain solutions. Powered by advanced systems and technologies, its integrated services support complex distribution needs across 19 million square feet of managed space. With a presence in over 175 sites across North America and Europe, Metro Supply Chain is one of Canada's largest privately owned supply chain companies, recognized for its strategic excellence and strong community values.

About Canada's Best Managed Companies

Canada's Best Managed Companies continues to be the mark of excellence for private Canadian-owned and managed companies. Every year since the launch of the program in 1993, hundreds of entrepreneurial companies have competed for this designation in a rigorous and independent process that evaluates their management skills and practices. The awards are granted on four levels: 1) Canada's Best Managed Companies new winner; 2) Canada's Best Managed Companies winner; 3) Gold Standard winner; 4) Platinum Club member. Program sponsors are Deloitte Private, CIBC, EDC, The Globe and Mail, and TMX Group. For more information, visit www.bestmanagedcompanies.ca.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2681794/Metro_Supply_Chain_Metro_Supply_Chain_once_again_named_a_winner.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/metro-supply-chain-once-again-named-a-winner-of-canadas-best-managed-companies-for-2025-302449064.html
NEW YORK, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Apperio, advised by JEGI CLARITY, has been sold to PERSUIT.

Headquartered in London, Apperio is an innovative legal spend management AI software solution. The Company provides real-time legal spend visibility, empowering legal departments to manage budgets effectively, improve collaboration with law firms, and enhance financial forecasting accuracy. Apperio's robust analytics enable transparency and strategic spend management across the legal department.

PERSUIT is the leading platform for selecting and managing outside counsel. Mobilizing value-based pricing models from matter intake to invoice review and payment, PERSUIT improves how firms are engaged, matters are structured, spend is managed, outcomes are delivered, and performance is measured. With real-time insights, in-house legal teams and their legal leaders can align with business goals and create lasting impact.

With the acquisition of Apperio, PERSUIT takes a bold step forward in building an end-to-end platform that powers smarter decision-making from intake to invoice approval and payment. Combined with PERSUIT's strengths in AI-powered firm recommendations, dynamic scoping, and pricing intelligence, the addition of Apperio delivers full transparency into legal spend and real-time invoice validation-ensuring value delivered always matches value paid. This strategic acquisition reinforces PERSUIT's unique ability to deliver an integrated platform that transforms how legal departments scope, price, select, and manage outside counsel - transforming legal operations into a strategic driver of business impact.

About JEGI CLARITY

JEGI CLARITY is a pre-eminent M&A advisory firm for the media, events, marketing, information and technology industries. With a global reach from New York, London, Boston, and Sydney, we have closed more than 800 transactions during our 35+ year history. For more information, visit www.jegiclarity.com.

Contact: Kelsey Kovachik, Vice President of Marketing

+1 212 754 0710 | kkovachik@jegiclarity-us.com | www.jegiclarity.com/

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1560184/Jegi_Clarity.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/jegi-clarity-has-advised-apperio-on-their-sale-to-persuit-302449068.html
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has praised a sharp rise in artillery shell production, calling it a key driver of the country's growing military strength. His comments came during a recent inspection of munitions factories, state media reported Wednesday.

According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim visited major munitions enterprises under the Second Economy Commission, where he assessed both shell manufacturing processes and the broader state of the machine-building industry.

KCNA reported that Kim expressed "great satisfaction" with the modernization of the facilities and noted a substantial increase in output. The agency said shell production capacity had grown fourfold compared to the average annual level, and nearly doubled the volume seen during the industry's previous peak year.

Kim was quoted as saying he hoped the factories "would produce more shells to contribute to the expansion of the combat power of our armed forces," stressing that the enhanced artillery force boosts the army's combat efficiency and perfects its combat preparations.

"This remarkable growth of productivity ... takes on a very important meaning in realizing the (governing) party's strategy for the development of national defense," Kim added.

Kim also inspected a machine factory, where he laid out goals for long-term industrial modernization. He emphasized the facility should become a model hub for advancing the country's machine-building sector.

He described this transformation as "a decisive guarantee" for raising North Korea's defense capabilities to a "world-class level."

Kim called on the factory to prioritize the development and production of "more intelligent, high-speed, precision and multifunctional machine-building equipment," citing the importance of boosting both the munitions industry and the broader national economy.

Kim's renewed focus on artillery shell output comes amid reports that North Korea has transferred large quantities of military equipment, including millions of shells, to Russia for use in its war against Ukraine.
Bruce Jacobi to Pass Leadership to Terrie Campbell

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 / Cogency Global today announced a leadership transition as Bruce Jacobi retires and passes on the role of Chief Executive Officer to Terrie Campbell, effective May 1, 2025.

Terrie Campbell

Cogency Global Announces CEO Transition from Bruce Jacobi to Terrie Campbell

The transition marks a natural evolution for Cogency Global, reflecting Bruce's and Terrie's shared commitment to the white-glove client service and responsiveness that have long defined the company. Under Terrie's leadership, Cogency Global will continue to deliver high-touch service while thoughtfully expanding its capabilities to meet the evolving needs of its clients.

Terrie Campbell brings extensive executive leadership experience in legal services, technology and operations. She has served as CEO of Esquire Deposition Solutions, led the managed document services business for Ricoh USA and held key leadership roles focused on client-centric transformation and operational excellence. Throughout her career, Terrie has demonstrated an unwavering focus on building organizations where client experience is paramount. Her deep expertise in legal services and strategic leadership positions her to guide Cogency Global into its next chapter while maintaining the company's hallmark commitment to personalized service.

Bruce Jacobi, who has served as CEO since 1997, has been instrumental in building Cogency Global's reputation for trusted expertise, promptness and enduring client relationships. His decision to transition leadership to Terrie reflects their mutual belief in the importance of protecting and enhancing the client experience as the company grows.

"This transition is about building on the strong foundation we have created-not changing what makes Cogency Global unique," said Bruce Jacobi. "Terrie's experience, leadership and client-first philosophy make her the ideal person to lead the company's future. I have full confidence that our clients will continue to receive the tailored service they expect."

"I am honored to join Cogency Global and continue the extraordinary legacy Bruce and the team have built," said Terrie Campbell. "Throughout my career, I have believed that client experience and service excellence are the foundational pillars of lasting success. As Cogency grows, we will remain deeply committed to delivering responsive, bespoke service and ensuring that every client continues to feel prioritized and valued."

About Cogency Global

Cogency Global, founded in 1980, is an international provider of registered agent services, as well as fast and efficient corporate transaction and compliance solutions for companies and their counsel. The company also keeps clients informed of changes to the law and filing procedures through frequent bulletins, email updates, and live informational webinars and seminars. Headquartered in New York City, with offices throughout the United States as well as in London, Hong Kong, and Singapore, Cogency Global is well-positioned to support legal and business professionals around the world. For more information, please visit?www.cogencyglobal.com.

Contact Information

Tigist Ketema

SVP of Global Marketing

tketema@cogencyglobal.com

1-800-221-0102





SOURCE: Cogency Global

Logo_RGB_Horizontal_BestForWeb_TransparentBackground.png

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/cogency-global-announces-ceo-transition-1021425
The new center strengthens ICEYE's development of defense and related ISR technologies, driving innovation in Spain's space sector.

VALENCIA, Spain, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ICEYE , the global leader in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite operations for Earth Observation, has today announced expanding its global footprint with the launch of a new Research & Development and Manufacturing Center in Valencia, Spain. The new center is the company's second-largest R&D hub. It will drive innovation in ICEYE's pipeline researching, developing, and manufacturing SAR-based and future multi-sensor technologies and solutions for persistent Earth Observation. This strategic investment highlights ICEYE's confidence in the Valencia region's skilled workforce and its potential to contribute to ICEYE's global innovation and growth efforts by developing technologies and solutions made in Spain.

"As a leading innovator in SAR satellite technology, we are excited to open our cutting-edge R&D and Manufacturing Center in Valencia. With this significant investment in Spain, we are enhancing the development and manufacturing of our Earth observation technologies as we expand our global presence. Our SAR technology has proven crucial for sectors such as defense and intelligence, security, maritime monitoring, insurance, and natural catastrophe response. We continue to invest in developing and expanding our leading SAR satellite constellation, delivering satellite missions to our customers. We are also advancing our Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) platform and related systems for our customers in the defense sector," said Rafal Modrzewski, CEO and Co-founder of ICEYE.

"ICEYE is a company that has made innovation and excellence its reason for being in a strategic sector for everyone, namely space. The Spanish government's commitment to this sector makes Spain an attractive country for the development and growth of companies in the 'NewSpace' industry, in a municipality such as Paterna, in which talent and vibrant business activity thrive," said Teresa Riesgo, Secretary General for Innovation at the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities.

In the words of Sari Rautio, Finnish Ambassador to Spain, "Both Spain and Finland are committed to the development of space technologies and dual-use solutions to promote our security and competitiveness. This new ICEYE plant in Paterna, Valencia, highlights the importance we attach to innovation and investment geared towards achieving European strategic autonomy in key technologies."

Carlos Mazon, President of the Valencian Regional Government, said that "This ICEYE microsatellite component production and assembly centre contributes to strengthening the Valencian Community as a key hub for the aerospace industry and supports a high-tech ecosystem that creates quality jobs".

For Mazon, the contribution of companies such as ICEYE, which has the world's largest constellation of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites, is two-fold: "On the one hand, making it possible to respond to emergency situations, and on the other, facilitating the planning of urban development, stimulating infrastructure design and initiatives for sustainable development and environmental protection."

With its presence in Valencia, ICEYE will directly contribute to the local community, broader Spanish economy, and national defense and space industry sectors by creating highly skilled jobs and infusing advanced technological expertise. ICEYE also aims to engage with local academic institutions, such as the Universitat Politecnica de Valencia (UPV). Additionally, by developing and building proven technological sovereign solutions in Spain and thanks to its flexible and quick access to space, ICEYE will work with the Government of Spain to help strengthen its national security and defense intelligence interests.

"Valencia was selected for our R&D and Manufacturing Center due to its highly skilled talent pool, the area's nascent and highly promising New Space ecosystem and infrastructure for innovation and technology, and the operational efficiency of the area. We anticipate expanding our Valencia team to over 100 employees within the next three years. We are actively seeking to grow our global team of engineers, scientists, and innovators with skilled professionals in Valencia to contribute to cutting-edge space technology and make a tangible impact on global security and resilience," said Gonzalo Garcia-Munoz, CEO of ICEYE Spain and Global SVP of Operations at ICEYE.

Notes to editors on ICEYE's impact during the 2024 DANA storm in Spain:

The DANA storm brought devastating floods to southeastern Spain, with Valencia particularly hard-hit. The ICEYE team immediately mobilized to provide critical support to local authorities and aid organizations. We worked closely with the Valencian Government to rapidly detect and quantify impacts. We have collaborated closely with the Ministry of Innovation, Industry, Commerce, and Tourism to obtain accurate, comprehensive, and timely information about the status of each business park. We also collaborated with the Spanish Space Agency to explore additional ways to support national disaster management authorities with satellite-based actionable data.

About ICEYE

ICEYE delivers unparalleled persistent monitoring capabilities to detect and respond to changes in any location on Earth, faster and more accurately than ever before.

Owning the world's largest synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite constellation, ICEYE provides objective, near-real-time insights, ensuring that customers have unmatched access to actionable data, day or night, even in challenging environmental conditions. As a trusted partner to governments and commercial industries, ICEYE delivers intelligence in sectors such as defense and intelligence, insurance, natural catastrophe response and recovery, security, maritime monitoring, and finance, enabling decision-making that contributes to community resilience and sustainable development.

ICEYE operates internationally with offices in Finland, Poland, Spain, the UK, Australia, Japan, the UAE, Greece, and the US. We have more than 700 employees, inspired by a shared vision to improve life on Earth by becoming the global source of truth in Earth Observation.

More information for the media:

ICEYE global media contact: press@iceye.com

ICEYE media contact in Spain: iceye@kreab.com

Visit www.iceye.com and https://www.iceye.com/es/ for information.

Follow ICEYE on LinkedIn and X for the latest updates and insights.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2681704/ICEYE___Valencia.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/iceye-opens-research--development-and-manufacturing-center-in-valencia-spain-302449078.html
Argan, Inc. (NYSE: AGX) ("Argan" or the "Company") today announces that Bobby Foister, Jr., Chief Executive Officer of The Roberts Company, Inc. ("TRC"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Argan, as part of a long term succession plan, resigned from his role effective April 30, 2025 to take a reduced supporting position at TRC. As planned, Sean Terrell, who has served as President of TRC since 2023, assumed the additional role of Chief Executive Officer.

Mr. Foister will continue to serve as Chairman of TRC's Board and will assist with the leadership transition and work in various other capacities to ensure continued success and operational continuity.

David Watson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Argan, commented, "On behalf of the entire Argan team and Board, I would like to thank Bobby for his valuable contributions over the past ten years with TRC. Bobby has been a driving force behind TRC's growth, leading the company through significant milestones while building a strong culture of operational excellence and teamwork. As a testament to his commitment and loyalty to the organization, Bobby will continue to support the team as Chairman of the Board to ensure a smooth transition. We appreciate Bobby's lasting impact on TRC and extend our best wishes as he transitions into semi-retirement."

Mr. Terrell brings over thirty years of leadership, operational, and strategic experience to the role. Prior to joining TRC, he held senior leadership positions at Overland Contracting, Inc. ("OCI"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Black Veatch that provides construction solutions for non-union critical infrastructure projects including power generation, power delivery, water, and telecommunications. While at Black Veatch, Mr. Terrell served as Regional Director of Construction and Procurement Operations for the Sub-Saharan Africa and Americas regions and then President of OCI. His international experience includes overseeing construction operations at the Kusile Power Station project in South Africa, one of the largest coal-fired power stations in the world. Earlier in his career, Mr. Terrell spent seven years with Gemma Power Systems, also a wholly owned subsidiary of Argan. Mr. Terrell holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Engineering from Iowa State University.

Throughout his career, Mr. Terrell has demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership development, operational improvement, and strategic innovation. With extensive experience and a deep knowledge of TRC's business and culture, he is well-prepared to guide the company into its next chapter of growth and success.

Mr. Watson concluded, "Sean has been an important member of the TRC leadership team and has worked closely with Bobby and the broader organization to deliver outstanding results. His appointment reflects the strength of TRC's team and our commitment to thoughtful succession planning. I look forward to working with Sean as he leads TRC into its next phase of success."

About The Roberts Company

TRC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Argan, Inc., is a leading provider of industrial construction and field services supporting new plant construction, facility expansions, maintenance turnarounds, shutdowns, and emergency mobilizations. TRC serves a wide range of heavy and light industrial clients, with a strong presence in emerging industries as well as agriculture, petrochemical, pulp paper, water, data centers, and power. The company's capabilities include the fabrication, delivery, and installation of critical steel components such as piping systems and pressure vessels. Founded in 1977, TRC is headquartered near Greenville, North Carolina, where it operates its primary fabrication facility and offices. Additional information about The Roberts Company can be found at www.robertscompany.com.

About Argan

Argan's primary business is providing a full range of construction and related services to the power industry. Argan's service offerings focus on the engineering, procurement and construction of natural gas-fired power plants and renewable energy facilities, along with related commissioning, maintenance, project development and technical consulting services, through its Gemma Power Systems and Atlantic Projects Company operations. Argan also owns The Roberts Company, which is a fully integrated industrial construction, fabrication and plant services company, and SMC Infrastructure Solutions, which provides telecommunications infrastructure services.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250507310947/en/

Contacts:

Company Contact:

David Watson

301.315.0027



Investor Relations Contacts:

John Nesbett/Jennifer Belodeau

IMS Investor Relations

203.972.9200
Hole R-010 intersected 30.0 m at 2.06 g/t Au, including 8.0 m at 3.66 g/t Au and 11.0 m at 2.27 g/t Au

Hole R-015 intersected 40.0 m at 1.49 g/t Au, including 8.0 m at 3.36 g/t Au

Hole R-003 intersected 13.0 m at 4.37 g/t Au, including 6.0 m at 9.34 g/t Au

Results from exploration programs at Igab continue to reinforce the strong prospectivity of the Mokro and surrounding targets

Longueuil, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Greenheart Gold Inc. (TSXV: GHRT) (OTCQB: GHRTF) (the "Company" or "Greenheart Gold") is pleased to announce drill results from its initial reconnaissance reverse circulation ("RC") drill program at the Majorodam project in Suriname. The Greenheart Gold exploration team is highly encouraged by these results, which include three (3) "highlight" holes among six (6) holes returning anomalous intercepts (see Table 1, Figure 1 and Figure 2). The decision to drill early based on soil anomalies alone was taken due to the presence of a thick duricrust (in places over five (5) meters ("m") in thickness) that prevented more typical assessment by trench and channel sampling of available outcrops. Fortunately, the relative proximity to Paramaribo via paved roads reduced both the mobilization cost and time of moving a rig to site, making "prospecting" with the RC rig a viable, rapid, and cost-effective option.

Table 1 - Significant intervals

Hole ID * From (m) To (m) Interval

Length (m) Gold grade

(Au g/t) Interval x

Grade (gm/t) Cutoff grade

(g/t Au) ** MAJR25-003 53.0 66.0 13.0 4.37 57 0.30 inc. 60.0 66.0 6.0 9.34 56 1.00 MAJR25-009 1.0 14.0 13.0 0.40 5 0.30 MAJR25-010 96.0 126.0 30.0 2.06 62 0.30 inc. 96.0 104.0 8.0 3.66 29 1.00 & inc. 115.0 126.0 11.0 2.27 25 1.00 MAJR25-014 16.0 21.0 5.0 0.33 2 0.30 MAJR25-015 24.0 64.0 40.0 1.49 60 0.30 inc. 40.0 48.0 8.0 3.36 27 1.00 and 83.0 90.0 7.0 0.39 3 0.30 MAJR25-017 2.0 7.0 5.0 0.60 3 0.30

* Results pending for holes MAJR25-019 & 020. Assays for remaining holes returned no significant results (when calculated using a 0.30 g/t or higher cutoff).

** Significant intervals calculated using 0.3 g/t Au cutoff (with 5 m min length & 5 m max internal dilution), included intervals calculated using 1.0 g/t Au cutoff (with 3 m min length & 2 m max internal dilution).

Highlighted results from the program include hole R-010, which intercepted 30.0 m grading 2.06 grams per tonne ("g/t") gold ("Au") starting at a depth of 96 m downhole ("downhole") using a 0.30 g/t Au cutoff grade, including 8.0 m grading 3.66 g/t Au (using a 1.00 g/t Au cutoff) starting at 96 m downhole, in addition to 11.0 m grading 2.27 g/t Au (1.00 g/t Au cutoff) starting at 115 m downhole. Additional highlights include hole R-015 intersecting 40.0 m grading 1.49 g/t Au (0.30 g/t Au cutoff) from 24 m downhole, including 8.0 m grading 3.36 g/t Au (1.00 g/t Au cutoff) and 7.0 m grading 0.39 g/t Au (0.30 g/t Au cutoff) from 83 m downhole, in addition to hole R-003, which intersected 13.0 m grading 4.37 g/t Au (0.30 g/t cutoff) including 6.0 m grading 9.34 g/t Au (1.00 g/t Au cutoff).

The RC program, as shown in Figure 1, comprised 20 reconnaissance RC holes totaling 2,138 m across five fences and was focused on testing some of the strongest soil geochemistry results on the Heuvel target. Including the highlight holes, each one of these five (5) fences intersected at least one hole with anomalous results which require further follow up. The gold mineralization present in the significant intervals appears to be hosted within units comprised of mafic volcanics, volcaniclastics and fine grained clastic sedimentary rocks. Mineralized zones appear to be associated with silica, carbonate and sericite alteration of varying intensity. This press release reports on the assay results of 18 drill holes, with the remaining two (2) holes (R-019 and R-020) pending return of assays from the lab.

Currently, one excavator and a bulldozer are active at Majorodam, with an additional excavator expected to arrive this month. This equipment will be focused on creating trenches where possible, in addition to creating exposure on hillsides where road cuts are expected to sufficiently expose in situ saprolite for further assays and which structural orientations may be derived. Trenching will also continue at the Helling target to the east of Heuvel and will begin on the recently acquired Majorodam North property, where soil sampling results received to date indicate additional broad gold anomalies for follow up (see inset map in Figure 1). In addition, work will commence to improve the roads in anticipation of a follow-up drill program, which is anticipated to occur in August after the end of the rainy season.

Igab exploration update

Soil geochemistry results from the Igab project in Suriname continue to be very encouraging, as can be seen from the recently received results of an extensive ridge and spur soil sampling program across the project (see Figure 3). The results indicate numerous anomalous areas to the north, south and east of the central Mokro target area. These results complement earlier stream sediment sampling results and appear to be located upstream of several areas of historic alluvial mining, all of which confirm the high level of prospectivity of the project in general. The Company has begun an extensive grid-based soil sampling survey over anomalous areas to further define the targets prior to engaging in trench and channel sampling.

At the Lemon Tree target area in the southwestern corner of Igab, the Company is continuing with its trenching, sampling and mapping programs. At Lemon Tree, the programs are focused on further defining the extent of mineralization around the sheared and altered outcrop that returned strong channel sampling results, including 31.0 m grading 1.36 g/t Au (previously reported). Approximately 500 m to the north of Lemon Tree, at the Desi Berg artisanal workings, the exploration team continues to follow up on the presence of gold bearing quartz veins that were reportedly mined by the option holder, as well as investigating the source of numerous smoky quartz boulders with visible gold.

Sample Collection, Assaying and Data management

Significant intervals in this press release have been calculated using a grade cut-off of 0.3 g/t Au, a minimum length of five meters, and a maximum length of five meters of consecutive internal waste. Included significant intervals have been calculated using a grade cut-off of 1.0 g/t Au, a minimum length of three meters, and a maximum length of two meters of consecutive internal waste. Gold grades are uncapped. Mineralized intersection lengths are not necessarily true widths. Reverse circulation (RC) drill samples are weighed in their entirety at the rig side to ensure consistent sample collection, then split, bagged, and tagged. All samples are shipped to the Actlabs preparation laboratory in Paramaribo, Suriname while respecting best-practice chain of custody procedures. At the preparation laboratory, samples are dried, crushed to 80% passing 2 mm, riffle split (250g), and pulverized to 95% passing 105 m. Coarse blanks are inserted by the Company, and are used between and following suspected high-grade intervals. Barren sand flushes are inserted by the analytical laboratory after each sample is pulverized to clean the bowl. Pulverized samples are transported for analysis to the Actlabs laboratory in Georgetown, Guyana (an ISO 9001 certified laboratory) where gold assay is carried out using a 30 g or 50 g fire assay with an atomic absorption finish. Initial assays with results above 3.0 g/t Au are re-assayed with a gravimetric finish. Certified reference materials and blanks are inserted at a rate of 5% of samples shipped to the laboratories. RC field duplicates pulp duplicates are also generated at a rate of 5% of samples. Assay data is subject to QA/QC prior to accepting into the Company database managed by an independent consultant.

Qualified Person

All scientific and technical information in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Justin van der Toorn, CGeol FGS, EurGeol, President and CEO of Greenheart Gold, and a Qualified Person under Canadian National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About Greenheart Gold Inc.

Greenheart Gold is an exploration company that builds on a proven legacy of discoveries within the Guiana Shield, a highly prospective geological terrain that hosts numerous gold deposits yet remains relatively under-explored. The Company is led by former executives and members of the exploration group of Reunion Gold, a team that was most recently noted for the discovery and delineation of the multimillion-ounce Oko West deposit in Guyana. Greenheart Gold intends to build on its technical knowledge, strong contact base and previous success from exploring in the Guiana Shield to assemble, maintain and explore a portfolio of early-stage exploration projects in Guyana and Suriname that are prospective for orogenic gold deposits.

Additional information about the Company is available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and the Company's website (www.greenheartgold.com).

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information

All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release constitute "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of certain securities laws and are based on expectations and projections as of the date of this press release. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, without limitation, those related to the Company's plans and objectives, timing of and execution of planned exploration activities, geological interpretation, potential favorable setting and mineralization, other statements relating to the business prospects of Greenheart and, more generally, the section entitled "About Greenheart Gold Inc."

Forward-looking statements are based on beliefs, expectations, estimates and projections as of the time of this press release. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company as of the time of such statements, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. These estimates and assumptions may prove to be incorrect. Such assumptions include, without limitation, those underlying the statements in the section entitled "About Greenheart Gold Inc."

Many of these uncertainties and contingencies can directly or indirectly affect, and could cause, actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements. By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific in nature, including among others, those risks and uncertainties set forth in the Company's audited consolidated financial statements and related notes for the initial period from April 19, 2024 to December 31, 2024 and the associated management's discussion & analysis, and other documents and reports filed by the Company with Canadian securities regulators available under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, and the risk that estimates, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved or that assumptions do not reflect future outcomes. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purpose of providing information about management's expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as a number of important risk factors and future events could cause the actual outcomes to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates, assumptions and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. The Company cautions that the list of factors set forth in the Company's filings that may affect future results is not exhaustive, and new, unforeseeable risks may arise from time to time. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking statements, except to the extent 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) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.





Figure 1 - Overview of RC drilling completed on the Majorodam project in Suriname. Inset map shows the location of Heuvel and Helling targets, as well as the continued growth of gold in soil anomalies onto the Majorodam North permit.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11642/251194_a5fb9033c408ebf6_002full.jpg





Figure 2 - Interpreted cross sections of selected RC fences that include holes R-015 and R-010. Interpreted geology and alteration based on RC chip logging.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11642/251194_a5fb9033c408ebf6_003full.jpg





Figure 3 - Update geological map of the Igab project, including ridge and spur soil sample results.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11642/251194_a5fb9033c408ebf6_004full.jpg

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251194

SOURCE: Greenheart Gold Inc.
Production of 41,680 boe/d represents a new quarterly record for the Company

Adjusted funds flow (1) totaled $131.1 million ($0.66/share) with free funds flow (1) of $57.8 million ($0.29/share)

Net debt (1) reduced by $46.3 million, or 5%, over year-end 2024

US$15 million open market Senior Notes repurchase below par in April 2025 further improves leverage metrics

Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Saturn Oil & Gas Inc. (TSX: SOIL) (OTCQX: OILSF) ("Saturn" or the "Company"), a light oil-weighted producer focused on unlocking value through the development of assets in Saskatchewan and Alberta, is pleased to report our operating and financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2025, featuring another period of record quarterly production and Adjusted funds flow ("AFF")(1). Saturn's financial statements ("Financial Statements"), as well as Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") for the three months ended March 31, 2025, are available on our website and filed on SEDAR+ at sedarplus.ca. A conference call and webcast to discuss the Q1/25 results has been scheduled for Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 8:00 am Mountain Time (10:00 am Eastern Time). Access details for the conference call and webcast are provided below.

"Saturn's Blueprint strategy and ability to extract incremental value from our asset base was demonstrated in Q1/25. New wells outperformed type curve by 20% on average, quarterly production volumes came in above both the upper end of guidance and our earlier records, and operational efficiencies were reflected in net operating expenses per boe that were below the low end of our guidance," said John Jeffrey, Chief Executive Officer. "This performance drove record AFF and contributed to strong free funds flow that enabled Saturn to supplement our share buybacks with the repurchase of US$15 million face value of Senior Notes below par subsequent to quarter end. We are well positioned to execute on our strategy while remaining defensive through continued market uncertainty and volatility."

Q1 2025 HIGHLIGHTS

Production of 41,680 boe/d exceeded peak guidance by 3%, reflecting a successful development program with new wells outperforming type curve (3) estimates by an average of 20%.

Adjusted EBITDA (1) totaled $153.2 million in the quarter.

AFF (1) totaled $131.1 million ($0.66/share basic), up 3% over Q4/24 on a per share basis.

Free funds flow (1) of $57.8 million ($0.29/share basic) contributed cash to the balance sheet and further bolstered Saturn's financial flexibility.

Liquidity totaled approximately $230 million at March 31, 2025, inclusive of $79.5 million in cash and an undrawn $150.0 million credit facility, positioning Saturn with resilience to navigate ongoing market challenges.

Capital expenditures (1)(4) totaled $73.3 million with four rigs running in Saskatchewan and one in Alberta , resulting in 33 gross (24.4 net) wells drilled, completed, equipped and tied-in, including 26 gross (22.3 net) wells in Southeast Saskatchewan, six gross (1.1 net) wells in West Saskatchewan and one gross (1.0 net) well in Alberta, all of which were brought on-production during the quarter, contributing to strong volumes.

Senior Notes repayment of US$16.3 million reduced principal outstanding to US$601.3 million , contributing to a reduction in net debt (1) to $813.9 million at March 31, 2025, a $46.3 million decrease from year-end 2024. Leverage metrics declined to 1.3x net debt to annualized Adjusted EBITDA (1) and 1.6x net debt to annualized AFF (1) .

Returned $5.8 million to shareholders during the quarter through the repurchase of 2.8 million common shares ("Common Shares") at a weighted average price of $2.08 per Common Share under our normal course issuer bid ("NCIB").

EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO QUARTER END

Opportunistically repurchased for retirement US$15 million face value of our Senior Notes (approximately C$21 million) in April 2025 at a discount to par , reducing the current balance to US$586 million, down from US$650 million at June 30, 2024. Retiring debt at a discount to par value allows Saturn to cost-effectively reduce total liabilities, while also lowering future interest obligations, enhancing financial flexibility. Any open market purchases are over and above the quarterly 2.5% committed principal repayment , and will reduce the balance outstanding upon maturity.

High-graded our hedge book subsequent to quarter-end, eliminating two punitive WTI swaps in H2/26 and Q1/27, and adding new NGL propane swaps over the next twelve months, along with further WTI-MSW differential hedges through Q3/25.

Return of capital to shareholders has totaled $17.7 million since the launch of our NCIB in August, 2024 to May 7, 2025, through the repurchase of 8.4 million Common Shares in the open market, representing a shareholder return of approximately $0.09 per weighted average Common Share in Q1/25.

OUTLOOK

Through the majority of the second quarter, Western Canada experiences spring break-up conditions due to softened ground conditions caused by melting snow, which impedes the mobilization of rigs and heavy equipment. As a result, the Company's capital budget in Q2/25 is low, and affords Saturn time to continue monitoring market conditions and commodity prices. With our back-end weighted development program, and the nature of our asset base, the Company has the flexibility to defer decisions on capital allocation for the balance of 2025 and plans to re-evaluate in July. At this time, our existing production and capital guidance remains unchanged, but if required, Saturn could rapidly adjust capital without negative financial or contractual impacts.

For the second quarter of 2025, the Company's capital expenditures(1)(4) are expected to range between $15 and $20 million, pending future weather conditions. The impact of our well outperformance to date is expected to drive average Q2/25 production between 39,000 to 40,000 boe/d(2). As a result, Saturn anticipates our free funds flow generation will be the strongest during the second quarter, positioning the Company with enhanced resilience.

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING HIGHLIGHTS





Three Months Ended ($000s, except per share amounts)

March 31, 2025

December 31, 2024



March 31, 2024





















FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS





































Petroleum and natural gas sales

278,081



268,845



168,219

Cash flow from operating activities

165,372



91,157



70,222

Operating netback, net of derivatives(1)

157,567



152,616



91,711

Adjusted EBITDA(1)

153,185



152,823



88,153

Adjusted funds flow(1)

131,121



129,205



68,178

per share - Basic

0.66



0.64



0.46

- Diluted

0.65



0.63



0.45

Free funds flow(1)

57,826



23,785



34,212

per share - Basic

0.29



0.12



0.23

- Diluted

0.29



0.12



0.23

Net income (loss)

37,819



(26,318 )

(62,982 ) per share - Basic

0.19



(0.13 )

(0.42 ) - Diluted

0.19



(0.13 )

(0.42 ) Acquisitions, net of cash acquired

-



26,011



-

Proceeds from dispositions

-



576



-

Capital expenditures(1)(4)

73,295



105,420



33,966

Total assets

2,188,307



2,161,578



1,326,721

Net debt(1), end of period

813,893



860,155



386,417

Shareholders' equity

837,958



803,972



595,736

Common Shares outstanding, end of period

196,212



199,555



161,206

Weighted average, basic

198,113



201,484



148,558

Weighted average, diluted

202,727



206,205



151,457













OPERATING HIGHLIGHTS











Average production volumes(2)











Light and medium crude oil (bbls/d)

27,697



27,330



18,981

Heavy crude oil (bbls/d)

3,445



3,119



-

NGLs (bbls/d)

3,318



3,381



2,344

Natural gas (mcf/d)

43,319



43,328



30,416 Total boe/d

41,680



41,051



26,394

% Oil and NGLs

83%



82%



81% Average realized prices











Crude oil ($/bbl)

90.48



89.13



88.64

NGLs ($/bbl)

52.95



46.74



44.24

Natural gas ($/mcf)

2.48



1.41



2.44

Processing expenses ($/boe)

(0.26 )

(0.27 )

(0.45 ) Petroleum and natural gas sales ($/boe)

74.13



71.18



70.03 Operating netback ($/boe)











Petroleum and natural gas sales

74.13



71.18



70.03

Royalties

(9.04 )

(8.71 )

(8.82 ) Net operating expenses(1)

(19.58 )

(18.35 )

(19.80 ) Transportation expenses

(1.56 )

(1.07 )

(1.31 ) Operating netback(1)

43.95



43.05



40.10

Realized loss on derivatives

(1.96 )

(2.64 )

(1.92 ) Operating netback, net of derivatives(1)

41.99



40.41



38.18

CONFERENCE CALL AND WEBCAST

The Company plans to host a conference call on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at 8:00 am Mountain Time (10:00 am Eastern Time), which will include a discussion with Saturn's leadership team, who will provide an overview of our Q1 2025 results, followed by a question-and-answer session with attendees.

Date: Thursday, May 8, 2025

Time: 8:00 am MT (10:00 am ET)

Live Webcast Link: https://www.gowebcasting.com/14024

North America (Toll Free) Dial In: 1-833-752-3741

International Dial In: 1-647-846-8678

An audio replay of the webcast will be available one hour after the end of the call at the link above and will remain accessible for 12 months. The replay link will also be posted on Saturn's website.

NOTES

(1) See reader advisory: Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures.

(2) See reader advisory: Supplemental Information Regarding Product Types.

(3) See reader advisory: 'Type Curve'.

(4) Includes capitalized G&A.

ABOUT SATURN

Saturn is a returns-driven Canadian energy company focused on the efficient and innovative development of high-quality, light oil weighted assets, supported by an acquisition strategy targeting accretive and complementary opportunities. The Company's portfolio of free-cash flowing, low-decline operated assets in Saskatchewan and Alberta provide a deep inventory of long-term economic drilling opportunities across multiple zones. With an unwavering commitment to building an entrepreneurial and ESG-focused culture, Saturn's goal is to increase per share reserves, production and cash flow at an attractive return on invested capital. The Company's Common Shares are listed for trading on the TSX under ticker 'SOIL' and on the OTCQX under the ticker 'OILSF'. Further information and our corporate presentation are available on Saturn's website at www.saturnoil.com.

READER ADVISORIES

Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures

Throughout this news release and in other materials disclosed by the Company, Saturn employs certain measures to analyze financial performance, financial position and cash flow. These non-GAAP and other financial measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other entities. The non-GAAP and other financial measures should not be considered to be more meaningful than GAAP measures which are determined in accordance with IFRS, such as net income (loss), cash flow from operating activities, and cash flow used in investing activities, as indicators of Saturn's performance.

The disclosure under the section "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" in our MD&A, including non-GAAP financial measures and ratios, capital management measures and supplementary financial measures in the Company's Financial Statements and MD&A are incorporated by reference into this news release.

This news release may use the terms "Adjusted EBITDA", "Adjusted Funds Flow", "Net Debt", "Free Funds Flow", "Net Debt to Annualized Adjusted EBITDA" and "Net Debt to Annualized AFF" which are capital management financial measures. See the disclosure under "Capital Management" in our Financial Statements for the three months ended March 31, 2025, for an explanation and composition of these measures, how these measures provide useful information to an investor, the additional purposes, if any, for which management uses these measures, and, where applicable, a reconciliation of the Company's historical non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable measure calculated in accordance with GAAP for the applicable period then ended.

Capital Expenditures

Saturn uses capital expenditures to monitor its capital investments relative to those budgeted by the Company on an annual basis. Saturn's capital budget excludes acquisition and disposition ("A&D") activities as well as the accounting impact of any accrual changes or payments under certain lease arrangements. The most directly comparable GAAP measure for capital expenditures is cash flow used in investing activities. The following table reconciles capital expenditures and capital expenditures, net A&D to the nearest GAAP measure, cash flow used in investing activities.





Three months ended

($000s)

March 31,

2025



December 31,

2024



March 31,

2024

Cash flow used in investing activities

99,520



114,533



49,692

Change in non-cash working capital

(26,225 )

17,474



(15,726 ) Capital expenditures(1)(4), net A&D

73,295



132,007



33,966

Acquisitions, net of cash acquired

-



(26,011 )

-

Proceeds from disposition

-



(576 )

-

Capital expenditures(1)(4)

73,295



105,420



33,966



Free Funds Flow

Saturn uses free funds flow as an indicator of the efficiency and liquidity of Saturn's business, measuring its funds after capital investment available to manage debt levels, pursue acquisitions and gauge optionality to pay dividends and/or and return capital to shareholders through activities such as share repurchases. Saturn calculates free funds flow as adjusted funds flow in the period less capital expenditures. By removing the impact of current period capital expenditures from adjusted funds flow, management monitors its free funds flow to inform its capital allocation decisions. The following table reconciles adjusted funds flow to free funds flow.





Three months ended

($000s)

March 31,

2025



December 31,

2024



March 31,

2024

Adjusted funds flow

131,121



129,205



68,178

Capital expenditures(1)(4)

(73,295 )

(105,420 )

(33,966 ) Free funds flow

57,826



23,785



34,212



Gross Petroleum and Natural Gas Sales

Gross petroleum and natural gas sales is calculated by adding oil, natural gas and NGLs revenue, before deducting certain gas processing expenses in arriving at petroleum and natural gas revenue as required under IFRS-15. These processing expenses associated with the processing of natural gas and NGLs revenue are a result of the Company transferring custody of the product at the terminal inlet and, therefore, receiving net prices. This metric is used by management to quantify and analyze the realized price received before required processing deductions, against benchmark prices. The calculation of the Company's gross petroleum and natural gas sales is shown within the petroleum and natural gas sales section of the MD&A.

Net Operating Expenses

Net operating expense is calculated by deducting processing income primarily generated by processing third party production at processing facilities where the Company has an ownership interest, from operating expenses presented on the statement of income (loss). Where the Company has excess capacity at one of its facilities, it may process third-party volumes to reduce the cost of ownership in the facility. The Company's primary business activities are not that of a midstream entity whose activities are focused on earning processing and other infrastructure-based revenues, and as such third-party processing revenue is netted against operating expenses in the MD&A. This metric is used by management to evaluate the Company's net operating expenses on a unit of production basis. Net operating expense per boe is a non-GAAP financial ratio and is calculated as net operating expense divided by total barrels of oil equivalent produced over a specific period of time. The calculation of the Company's net operating expenses is shown within the net operating expenses section of the MD&A.

Operating Netback and Operating Netback, Net of Derivatives

The Company's operating netback is determined by deducting royalties, net operating expenses and transportation expenses from petroleum and natural gas sales. The Company's operating netback, net of derivatives, is calculated by adding or deducting realized financial derivative commodity contract gains or losses from the operating netback. The Company's operating netback and operating netback, net of derivatives are used in operational and capital allocation decisions. Presenting operating netback and operating netback, net of derivatives on a per boe basis is a non-GAAP financial ratio and allows management to better analyze performance against prior periods on a per unit of production basis. The calculation of the Company's operating netbacks and operating netback, net of derivatives are summarized as follows.





Three months ended ($000s)

March 31,

2025



December 31,

2024



March 31,

2024

Petroleum and natural gas sales

278,081



268,845



168,219

Royalties

(33,893 )

(32,881 )

(21,189 ) Net operating expenses

(73,441 )

(69,307 )

(47,563 ) Transportation expenses

(5,845 )

(4,056 )

(3,155 ) Operating netback

164,902



162,601



96,312

Realized loss on financial derivatives

(7,335 )

(9,985 )

(4,601 ) Operating netback, net of derivatives

157,567



152,616



91,711















($ per boe amounts)











Petroleum and natural gas sales

74.13



71.18



70.03

Royalties

(9.04 )

(8.71 )

(8.82 ) Net operating expenses

(19.58 )

(18.35 )

(19.80 ) Transportation expenses

(1.56 )

(1.07 )

(1.31 ) Operating netback

43.95



43.05



40.10

Realized loss on financial derivatives

(1.96 )

(2.64 )

(1.92 ) Operating netback, net of derivatives

41.99



40.41



38.18



Capital Management Measures

National Instrument 52-112 Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Disclosure ("NI 52-110") defines a capital management measure as a financial measure that: (i) is intended to enable an individual to evaluate an entity's objectives, policies and processes for managing the entity's capital; (ii) is not a component of a line item disclosed in the primary financial statements of the entity; (iii) is disclosed in the notes to the financial statements of the entity; and (iv) is not disclosed in the primary financial statements of the entity. Please refer to note 12 "Capital Management" in Saturn's Financial Statements for additional disclosure on: adjusted working capital, net debt, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted funds flow, free funds flow, annualized quarterly adjusted funds flow and net debt to annualized quarterly adjusted funds flow each of which are capital management measures used by the Company in this news release.

Supplementary Financial Measures

NI 52-112 defines a supplementary financial measure as a financial measure that: (i) is, or is intended to be, disclosed on a periodic basis to depict the historical or expected future financial performance, financial position or cash flow of an entity; (ii) is not disclosed in the financial statements of the entity; (iii) is not a non-GAAP financial measure; and (iv) is not a non-GAAP ratio. The supplementary financial measures used in this news release are either a per unit disclosure of a corresponding GAAP measure, or a component of a corresponding GAAP measure, presented in the financial statements. Supplementary financial measures that are disclosed on a per unit basis are calculated by dividing the aggregate GAAP measure (or component thereof) by the applicable unit for the period. Supplementary financial measures that are disclosed on a component basis of a corresponding GAAP measure are a granular representation of a financial statement line item and are determined in accordance with GAAP.

Supplemental Information Regarding Product Types

References to gas or natural gas and NGLs in this press release refer to conventional natural gas and natural gas liquids product types, respectively, as defined in National Instrument 51-101, Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities, except where specifically noted otherwise.

Q2 2025 average production, at the midpoint of the guidance range, is anticipated to be comprised of approximately 83% crude oil and NGLs and 17% natural gas.

Boe Presentation

Boe means barrel of oil equivalent. All boe conversions in this press release are derived by converting gas to oil at the ratio of six thousand cubic feet ("Mcf") of natural gas to one barrel ("Bbl") of oil. Boe may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A boe conversion rate of 1 Bbl: 6 Mcf is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. Given that the value ratio of oil compared to natural gas based on currently prevailing prices is significantly different than the energy equivalency ratio of 1 Bbl: 6 Mcf, utilizing a conversion ratio of 1 Bbl: 6 Mcf may be misleading as an indication of value.

Type Curve

Certain type curve disclosure presented herein represents estimates of the production decline and ultimate volumes expected to be recovered over time. "Results Projected" are based on a forward estimate of ultimate volumes to be recovered over time based on the initial 30 days average production data. "Guidance Well Type Curves" are the forecasted well performance used in setting the Company's guidance for expected results of the drilling program. Projected Results and Type Curves are useful in confirming and assessing the potential for the presence of hydrocarbons; however, such rates are not determinative of the rates at which such wells will continue production and decline thereafter, are not necessarily indicative of long-term performance or of long-term economics of the relevant well or fields, including future wells to be drilled, or of ultimate recovery of hydrocarbons.

Forward-Looking Information and Statements.

Certain information included in this press release constitutes forward-looking information under applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking information typically contains statements with words such as "anticipate", "believe", "expect", "plan", "intend", "estimate", "propose", "project", "scheduled", "will" or similar words suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook. Forward-looking information in this press release may include, but is not limited to, the Company's drilling and development plans, expectations regarding break-up conditions and record funds flow in Q2, expectations concerning the Q2 capital program, expectations regarding netbacks, hedging strategy, the business plan, cost model and strategy of the Company and expectations regarding anticipated pricing trends, growth opportunities and market conditions.

The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by Saturn, including expectations and assumptions concerning: the timing of and success of future drilling, commodity prices, development and completion activities, the performance of existing wells, the performance of new wells, the availability and performance of facilities and pipelines, the ability to allocate capital to pay down debt and grow or maintain production, the impact of our hedging strategy, the geological characteristics of Saturn's properties, the application of regulatory and licensing requirements, the availability of capital, labour and services, the creditworthiness of industry partners and the ability to integrate acquisitions.

Although Saturn believes that the expectations and assumptions on which the forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because Saturn can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. These include, but are not limited to, risks associated with the oil and gas industry in general (e.g., operational risks in development, exploration and production; the uncertainty of reserve estimates; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to production, costs and expenses, and health, safety and environmental risks), constraints in the availability of services, commodity price and exchange rate fluctuations, actions of OPEC and OPEC+ members, changes in legislation impacting the oil and gas industry, adverse weather or break-up conditions and uncertainties resulting from potential delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures. These and other risks are set out in more detail in Saturn's Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024, available on SEDAR+ at sedarplus.ca.

Forward-looking information is based on a number of factors and assumptions which have been used to develop such information but which may prove to be incorrect. Although Saturn believes that the expectations reflected in its forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking information because Saturn can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. In addition to other factors and assumptions which may be identified in this press release, assumptions have been made regarding and are implicit in, among other things, our capital expenditure and drilling programs, drilling inventory and booked locations, production and revenue guidance, ESG initiatives, debt repayment plans and future growth plans. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive of all factors and assumptions which have been used.

The forward-looking information in this news release reflects the Company's current expectations, assumptions and/or beliefs based on information currently available to the Company. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is made as of the date hereof and Saturn undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

All dollar figures included herein are presented in Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251195

SOURCE: Saturn Oil & Gas Inc.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. (TSXV: LVG) (OTCQB: LVGLF) ("Lake Victoria Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to report that at the Annual and Special Meeting of Shareholders of the Company (the "Meeting") held on May 7, 2025, the shareholders elected Marc Cernovitch, Simon Benstead, David Scott, Frank Hogel, Seth Dickinson, Dean Comand and Richard Reynolds as directors of the Company.

Shareholders also passed ordinary resolutions to appoint D&H Group LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants, as auditor of the Company, and approve a new 10% rolling omnibus equity incentive plan (the "Equity Incentive Plan"). The Equity Incentive Plan, which is subject to final acceptance by the TSX Venture Exchange, allows for the issuance of incentive stock options, deferred share units, performance share units, restricted share units, stock appreciation rights and stock purchase rights (collectively the "Awards"). The maximum number of shares reserved for issuance on exercise of all the Awards granted under the Equity Incentive Plan shall not exceed 10% of the issued and outstanding common shares as at the date of grant of any Award.

Following the Meeting, the directors appointed Marc Cernovitch as Chief Executive Officer of the Company, Simon Benstead as Executive Chairman and Chief Financial Officer, David Scott as Managing Director Tanzania, Seth Dickinson as Chief Operating Officer and Nick DeMare as Corporate Secretary.

About Lake Victoria Gold (LVG):

Lake Victoria Gold is a rapidly growing gold exploration and development company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol LVG. Leveraging our unique position and experience, the Company is principally focused on growth and consolidation in the highly prolific and prospective Lake Victoria Goldfield in Tanzania.

The Company has a 100% interest in the Tembo project which has over 50 thousand meters of drilling and is located adjacent to Barrick's Bulyanhulu Mine. The Company also holds a 100% interest in the Imwelo Project which is a fully permitted gold project west of AngloGold Ashanti's Geita Gold Mine. With historical resource estimates and a 2021 pre-feasibility study, the project is fully permitted for mine construction and production, positioning it as a near-term development opportunity.

LVG has assembled a highly experienced team with a track record of developing, financing, and operating mining projects in Africa with management, directors and partners owning more than 60% of the shares. Notably, the Company is grateful for the validation that comes with the support and equity investment from Barrick Gold and recent strategic partnership with Taifa Group.

Taifa Group (a diverse group of companies with interests in amongst others, Mining, Telecoms, Oil & Gas, Agri Business, Pharmaceuticals and Leather) has entered into an agreement with the Company to obtain an equity stake in the Company and through its wholly owned subsidiary Taifa Mining (a wholly Tanzanian owned company), or other nominees. Taifa Mining will also carry out all the contract mining and civil works for the Imwelo project. Taifa Mining is Tanzania's largest mining contractor with over 30 years mining related experience. Taifa have been the contractor of choice to most mines in Tanzania and have maintained long and successful relationships with companies such as Petra, De Beers, Barrick, and AngloGold Ashanti. In addition, Taifa also owns the largest fleet of mining equipment in Tanzania. As a company, Taifa is committed to adopting and adhering to the latest internationally recognized standards throughout all aspects of its business.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of the Company,

Simon Benstead

Executive Chairman & CFO

Phone: +1 604-685-9316

Email: sbenstead@lakevictoriagold.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.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251206

SOURCE: Lake Victoria Gold Ltd.
St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Sokoman Minerals Corp. (TSXV: SIC) (OTCQB: SICNF) ("Sokoman" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, further to its April 25, 2025, news release, the Company has filed documents with the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") and received conditional approval for its CAD$400,000 non-brokered flow-through private-placement financing (the "FT Financing"). Sokoman also received approval to close the first tranche of 6,000,000 FT common shares at CAD$0.05, for aggregate gross proceeds of CAD$300,000.

Timothy Froude, P. Geo., President and CEO, states, "With spring breakup nearly complete, we're preparing to resume work at our traditional bulk sample project. We're grateful for the continued support from investors and the Mineral Incentive Program, which together will strengthen our treasury to approximately CAD$1.3 million and position us well for the upcoming exploration season."

In connection with the first tranche of the FT Financing, the Company will pay cash finders' fees totalling CAD$18,000 and 360,000 non-transferable broker warrants exercisable at CAD$0.07 for one year as permitted by the policies of the Exchange.

All securities issued pursuant to the FT Financing are subject to a four-month and one-day hold period.

Final approval of the FT Financing is subject to Exchange approval.

The Company will use an amount equal to the gross proceeds received by the Company from the sale of the flow-through shares (the "FT Shares"), pursuant to the provisions in the Income Tax Act (Canada), to incur eligible Canadian exploration expenses that qualify as flow-through mining expenditures as both terms are defined in the Income Tax Act (Canada) on or before December 31, 2026, and to renounce all of the qualifying expenditures in favour of the subscribers of the FT Shares.

The Company intends to spend the flow-through proceeds on the Company's exploration projects. Sokoman Minerals wishes to thank the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for the CAD$150,000 received through the Mineral Incentive Program, administered by the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology, in support of our exploration efforts.

About Sokoman Minerals Corp.

Sokoman Minerals Corp. is a discovery-oriented company and one of the largest landholders in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada's emerging gold district. The Company's primary focus is its portfolio of gold projects; the 100%-owned flagship, advanced-stage Moosehead, Crippleback Lake, and the district-scale Fleur de Lys project near Baie Verte in northwestern Newfoundland, targeting Dalradian-type orogenic gold mineralization similar to the Curraghinalt and Cavanacaw deposits in Northern Ireland. The Company entered a strategic alliance with Benton Resources Inc. through three, large-scale, joint-venture properties including Grey River, Golden Hope, and Kepenkeck in Newfoundland.

In October 2023, Sokoman and Benton completed an agreement with Piedmont Lithium Inc., a major developer of lithium projects and processing plants in the USA, and exactly the right partner to have to advance the lithium project. For full details of the agreement, please refer to the Company's press release dated October 11, 2023.

Projects optioned with optionee fully vested are:

East Alder Project optioned to Canterra Minerals Inc. (SIC retains shares of CTM plus 1% NSR)

Startrek Project optioned to Thunder Gold (SIC retains shares of TGOL plus 1% NSR)

The Company would like to thank the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for the financial support of the Moosehead and Fleur de Lys Projects through the Junior Exploration Assistance Program during the past few years.

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.

Investors are cautioned that trading in the securities of the Corporation should be considered highly speculative. Except for historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially. Sokoman Minerals Corp. will not update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. More detailed information about potential factors that could affect financial results is included in the documents filed from time to time with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities by Sokoman Minerals Corp.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251216

SOURCE: Sokoman Minerals Corp.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Sierra Madre Gold and Silver Ltd. (TSXV: SM) (OTCQX: SMDRF) ("Sierra Madre" or the "Company") is pleased to provide financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 ("Q1 2025"). All amounts are expressed in U.S. dollars. The Company will participate in a webinar to discuss the financial results on Tuesday, May 13 at 11am ET. Registration details below.

Alex Langer, Chief Executive Officer, commented "We are very pleased with the Q1 results, with $4.8 million in revenues and a gross profit of $1.2 million, including $535,000 in cash generated from operations, reflecting an exciting first quarter of commercial operations at our Guitarra silver-gold mine complex. I would like to highlight our consistent production and revenue growth month over month since the Guitarra restart. We are expecting accelerating revenue growth for Q2 and Q3."

Mr. Langer continued, "These results establish a solid base for further growth as we ramp up the Coloso Mine in the complex, which just recently started supplementing higher-grade feed to the plant last month. The Sierra Madre team continues to fine-tune the operation with new mining faces being accessed and significant equipment purchases being made from cash flows. We expect continued improvements in the mining and milling processes as the site runs at the commercial throughput capacity of 500 tonnes per day."

Q1 2025 Highlights

Net Revenues : Silver revenues for the quarter totalled $2.34 million ($31.13 per ounce) and gold revenues totalled $2.89 million ($2,828 per ounce).

: Silver revenues for the quarter totalled $2.34 million ($31.13 per ounce) and gold revenues totalled $2.89 million ($2,828 per ounce). The Company sold 75,137 ounces of silver (" Ag ") and 1,022 ounces of gold (" Au ") or 165,093 silver equivalent (" AgEq ") ounces, based on the ratio of Au and Ag prices realized for each shipment in the period.

") and 1,022 ounces of gold (" ") or 165,093 silver equivalent (" ") ounces, based on the ratio of Au and Ag prices realized for each shipment in the period. Cost of sales was $3.6 million, approximately $21.84 per AgEq ounce sold.

was $3.6 million, approximately $21.84 per AgEq ounce sold. All-in-sustaining costs per AgEq ounce sold of $28.98 per ounce, compared to $32.18 in Q4 2024.

per AgEq ounce sold of $28.98 per ounce, compared to $32.18 in Q4 2024. Gross Profit was $1.2 million.

was $1.2 million. Cash provided by operating activities was $535,000.

was $535,000. Current assets, including cash, totaled $4.3 million at March 31, 2025, up from $3.5 million in Q4 2024.

Q1 2025 Operational Details

Mine Operations : Milled 39,167 tonnes of material, silver recoveries averaged 79.21% while gold recoveries averaged 78.77%.

: Milled 39,167 tonnes of material, silver recoveries averaged 79.21% while gold recoveries averaged 78.77%. Production : Produced 70,176 ounces of silver and 1,001 ounces of gold.

: Produced 70,176 ounces of silver and 1,001 ounces of gold. Concentrate Deliveries : During the quarter ended March 31, 2025, completed deliveries totalling 871 dry metric tonnes of silver/gold concentrates.

: During the quarter ended March 31, 2025, completed deliveries totalling 871 dry metric tonnes of silver/gold concentrates. Coloso Mining : On April 29 2025 , Sierra Madre announced the start of underground mining at the Coloso mine within the Guitarra Complex. The estimated resource grades at Coloso are significantly higher in both silver and gold compared to the Guitarra mine veins. During the ramp up of Coloso mining, various blending percentages for mill feed will be tested to ascertain best recovery procedures.

: On , Sierra Madre announced the start of underground mining at the Coloso mine within the Guitarra Complex. The estimated resource grades at Coloso are significantly higher in both silver and gold compared to the Guitarra mine veins. During the ramp up of Coloso mining, various blending percentages for mill feed will be tested to ascertain best recovery procedures. The Company anticipates improved head grades of the mineralized material in 2025 and a reduction in mining costs on a per-ounce basis going forward with Coloso expected to be a key driver of these improvements.

Equipment Purchases : Spent $378,000 to acquire mining and mobile equipment and refurbish underground equipment used in mine development. A large front-end loader and excavator were purchased, replacing costly rental equipment. Three personnel transport vehicles for both surface and underground work were also purchased, helping to accelerate the opening of the Coloso mine. A rebuilt engine and transmission were acquired for the low-profile underground haul truck, significantly extending its working life. After the end of Q1, a second explosives truck was purchased for use at Coloso and as backup for Guitarra.

: Spent $378,000 to acquire mining and mobile equipment and refurbish underground equipment used in mine development. A large front-end loader and excavator were purchased, replacing costly rental equipment. Three personnel transport vehicles for both surface and underground work were also purchased, helping to accelerate the opening of the Coloso mine. A rebuilt engine and transmission were acquired for the low-profile underground haul truck, significantly extending its working life. After the end of Q1, a second explosives truck was purchased for use at Coloso and as backup for Guitarra. Development : Development work was accelerated in Q1 2025, focusing on access to the larger higher-grade blocks defined in the 2023 resource estimate. The newly discovered veins, outside the existing resources, also required additional development work to ready them for stope production. This focus on development will result in the Company having more mineralized material available for processing in the later part of 2025. The diverting of equipment to development work was offset by processing low cost retaques, old backfill that contains economically interesting material, from areas that were mined in the 1990's when the mine cutoff was 8 to 10 grams per tonne gold-equivalent.

: Development work was accelerated in Q1 2025, focusing on access to the larger higher-grade blocks defined in the 2023 resource estimate. The newly discovered veins, outside the existing resources, also required additional development work to ready them for stope production. This focus on development will result in the Company having more mineralized material available for processing in the later part of 2025. The diverting of equipment to development work was offset by processing low cost retaques, old backfill that contains economically interesting material, from areas that were mined in the 1990's when the mine cutoff was 8 to 10 grams per tonne gold-equivalent. Hiring : The company has hired a degreed metallurgist with extensive flotation experience as Process Plant Superintendent, to oversee the proper blending of Coloso material with the current Guitarra mill feed. The metallurgist will also manage more in-house metallurgical testing. A civil engineer was hired to oversee the ongoing tailings dam work and other construction projects. Both of these hires reduce the Company's reliance on outside contractors and engineering firms.

: The company has hired a degreed metallurgist with extensive flotation experience as Process Plant Superintendent, to oversee the proper blending of Coloso material with the current Guitarra mill feed. The metallurgist will also manage more in-house metallurgical testing. A civil engineer was hired to oversee the ongoing tailings dam work and other construction projects. Both of these hires reduce the Company's reliance on outside contractors and engineering firms. Successful Transition to Commercial Production: In July 2024, the Company commenced test mining and milling at Guitarra, which was designed to provide further information on the current actual mining and milling costs to further assess the internal mine plan. The test program, underground development, and commissioning activities continued until December 31, 2024, when it was determined that the asset was consistently reaching the operating levels intended by management. On January 1, 2025, the Company declared commercial production at Guitarra, as announced on January 9, 2025.

Quarterly Financial Overview

Selected financial information set out below is based on and derives from the unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements of the Company for each of the quarters listed, which have been prepared in accordance with IFRS, as applicable to quarterly reporting:



Mar. 31,



2025 (Q1)



($) Dec. 31,



2024 (Q4)



($) Sep. 30,



2024 (Q3)



($) Jun. 30,



2024 (Q2)



($) Mar. 31, 2024



(Q1)



($) Dec 31,



2023 (Q4)



($) Sep. 30,



2023 (Q3)



($) Jun. 30,



2023 (Q2)



($) Revenues 4,841,242 3,938,323 2,535,617 - - - - - Gross profit 3,604,888 1,111,948 248,031 - - - - - Impairment - - - - - 2,906,681 - - Income (loss) for the quarter 335,875 (37,936) (947,092) (1,885,874) (1,204,826) (4,695,897) (1,840,393) (932,735) Income (loss) per share - basic and diluted 0.00 (0.00) (0.01) (0.01) (0.01) (0.03) (0.01) (0.01) Weighted average number of shares - basic 153,942,993 153,942,993 152,869,623 152,692,993 149,827,944 146,504,261 143,998,401 143,141,252

WEBINAR REGISTRATION

The Company will participate in a webinar on May 13, 2025, at 11:00 AM ET hosted by Adelaide Capital, reviewing Sierra Madre's Q1 2025 results, including key highlights and mine development. The webinar will also include a Q&A session.

Registration link: https://streamyard.com/watch/Rza6eXxwbmQy.

This news release should be read in conjunction with the Company's condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 and associated Management Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A"), both are available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and on the Company's website (www.sierramadregoldandsilver.com).

AgEq ounces produced have been determined using a ratio of 83.33 Au:Ag. AgEq ounces sold have been determined using the actual silver and gold prices obtained during the quarter. The determined ratio used was 84.43 Au:Ag for Q4 2024 and 90.87 Au:Ag for Q1 2025.

The Company reports non-GAAP measures, which include Cash Cost of Production per Tonne, Cash Cost per AgEq ounce sold, All-in Sustaining Cash Cost per AgEq ounce sold and Average Realized Price per AgEq ounce sold and Adjusted EBITDA. These measures are widely used in the mining industry as a benchmark for performance, but do not have a standardized meaning and may differ from methods used by other companies with similar descriptions. See "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of the Company's Q1 2025 MD&A for definitions and reconciliations to GAAP measures.

Qualified Person

Mr. Gregory Smith, P. Geo, Director of Sierra Madre, is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101, and has reviewed and approved the technical data and information contained in this news release. Mr. Smith has verified the technical and scientific data disclosed herein.

About Sierra Madre

Sierra Madre Gold and Silver Ltd. (TSXV: SM) (OTCQX: SMDRF) is a precious metals development and exploration company focused on the Guitarra mine in the Temascaltepec mining district, Mexico, and the exploration and development of its Tepic property in Nayarit, Mexico. The Guitarra mine is a permitted underground mine, which includes a 500 t/d processing facility that operated until mid-2018 and restarted commercial production in January 2025.

The +2,600 ha Tepic Project hosts low-sulphidation epithermal gold and silver mineralization with an existing historic resource.

Sierra Madre's management team has played key roles in managing the exploration and development of silver and gold mineral reserves and mineral resources. Sierra Madre's team of professionals has collectively raised over $1 billion for mining companies.

Cautionary Note Regarding Production Decisions

The Company's decision to place the mine into commercial production, expand a mine, make other production related decisions, or otherwise carry out mining and processing operations, is largely based on internal non-public Company data and reports from previous operations and the results of test mining and processing. The Company is not basing any production decisions on NI 43-101 compliant reserve estimates, preliminary economic assessments or feasibility studies and, as a result, there is greater risk and uncertainty as to future economic results from the Guitarra Mine Complex, including increased uncertainty of achieving any particular level of recovery of minerals or the cost of such recovery, including increased risks associated with developing a commercially mineable deposit, and a higher technical risk of failure than would be the case if a feasibility study were completed and relied upon to make a production decision.

Cautionary Note 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 news release.

This press 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 press release only, and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new information, estimates or opinions, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. 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 statements include, without limitation, statements regarding discussions of future plans, including the expected timing of concentrate shipments; the Company increasing production; the Company receiving revenues on a weekly basis and such revenues allowing the Company to comfortably expand to without further capital needs; production and the expected timing and production levels thereof.

The forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, that predicted production levels will be achieved and that existing production levels will be maintained.

In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied certain material assumptions, including without limitation, that the Company will be able to execute its future plans as intended, that predicted production levels will be achieved and that existing production levels will be maintained.

Although management of the Company has attempted 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.

SOURCE: Sierra Madre Gold and Silver Ltd.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251186

SOURCE: Sierra Madre Gold & Silver
Winnipeg, Manitoba--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Novra Technologies Inc. (TSXV: NVI) ("Novra") is issuing this notice to provide a status update and announce an extension on its binding Convertible Loan Agreement ("Loan") with SNAPS Holding Company ("SNAPS"), which it initially announced on September 10, 2024 and provided further disclosure for on December 19, 2024.

As disclosed in previous statements, under the agreement SNAPS which is an arm's-length party, will provide CAN $12.258 million for a term of two years with interest at 1% per annum. This loan can be converted into Novra common shares by either SNAPS or Novra at any time during the term at CAD $0.34 per share. The conversion to shares would require TSXV and shareholder approval.

The current agreement, which expired on March 31, 2025, has now been extended until July 31, 2025, with all other terms of the Loan agreement remaining unchanged.

SNAPS has reported to Novra that for the past 6 months it has been engaged diligently in divesting its targeted commercial real estate (CRE) holdings to reinvest the capital in identified high-growth technology entities such as Novra. Geopolitical factors including tariff turmoil, financial market uncertainties, and lending delays have led to an unfortunate slowdown in SNAPS' CRE divestiture plan. However, Novra has received SNAPS' assurance that the delays are temporary, and SNAPS remains fully committed to completing the "Loan" agreement.

Novra has agreed to SNAPS' request for an extension to the "Loan" based on its extensive discussions with them about SNAPS' ongoing divestiture transactions and after evidence was provided by SNAPS that has confirmed a funding source, with funds expected to be received by SNAPS in early to mid-May 2025. Additional SNAPS' asset sales are expected to close later this summer.

SNAPS has committed to Novra that they have prioritized and budgeted funds from these sales for Novra, as it regards Novra as a priority and key to execute its strategic vision of introducing technologically advanced and disruptive technologies in the IoT domain. We expect that the first tranche of the loan will be received by Novra on or before May 15th with additional tranches later in May, June and July.

"During these unforeseen delays of the past six months, SNAPS deeply values the patience, trust, and continued support of the Novra management team and its shareholders. SNAPS confirms its steadfast commitment to fulfilling its obligations under this binding agreement and acknowledges the success of its strategy remains anchored in Novra's technology, engineering expertise, and operational efficiency and leveraging these strategic assets to drive and scale SNAPS global deployments." states a SNAPS' spokesperson.

As insiders, Novra's Directors and Officers are currently subject to a trading blackout and this will continue for an additional one-week period after an update announcing an end to the blackout, or an announcement that the Loan has closed, is released.

As Novra has not yet received any funds for the Convertible Loan Agreement, the company cautions investors to refrain from placing undue reliance on statements regarding this potential transaction. Novra can provide no assurance that the convertible loan agreement will be completed as proposed, or at all.

About Novra Technologies Inc.:

Novra (TSXV: NVI) (OTCQB: NVRVF) is an international technology provider of products, systems and services for the distribution of multimedia broadband content. The Novra Group of companies includes Novra Technologies Inc, International Datacasting Corporation, and Wegener Corporation. The companies in the group are known for a strong focus on applications, including: broadcast video and radio, digital cinema, digital signage, and highly reliable data communications.

For more information visit: www.novragroup.com

Forward-Looking Statements:

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, concerning but not limited to: pending closing of this transaction, required TSX Venture Exchange approval of this transaction, Shareholder approval of this transaction, and anticipated developments in our operations in future periods. Forward-looking statements are generally identifiable by words such as "expect", "anticipate", "believe", "intend", "estimate", "predict", "outlook", "opportunity", "momentum", "potential", "proposed", "targeted", "plans" "possible", "positive indication for", "looking forward to", "getting ready to", "is starting to", and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions or results "will", "may", "could" or "should" occur or be achieved. As such, forward-looking statements are not historical facts but reflect our current assumptions and expectations regarding future events. These are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations and assumptions. Some of these risks and uncertainties are described under the "Risks and Uncertainties" section of Novra's MD&A.

For the above reasons, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on 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.

# # #

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251098

SOURCE: Novra Technologies Inc.
(All amounts expressed in U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Torex Gold Resources Inc. (the "Company" or "Torex") (TSX: TXG) reports the Company's financial and operational results for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Torex will host a conference call tomorrow morning at 9:00 AM (ET) to discuss the results.

Jody Kuzenko, President & CEO of Torex, stated:

"The first quarter was marked with significant milestones for Torex. We completed the tie-ins at the processing plant not only on time but, more importantly, safely. We also delivered first concentrate production, with regular shipments commencing in April. Earlier this week, we proudly declared commercial production at Media Luna, marking the conclusion of the project phase and the beginning of our transition back to positive free cash flow1 generation.

"Production levels for the quarter were in line with our expectations given the four-week shutdown at the processing plant. Production is expected to pick up during the second quarter through the early stages of ramp up and increase further through the back half of the year, with annual guidance being maintained. All-in sustaining costs1 for Q1 were much better than originally anticipated as initial sales from Media Luna did not commence until early April. As a result, the higher cost ore associated with the commissioning phase of the Media Luna mine will now be recognized in Q2, aligning with initial sales from Media Luna.

"As is typical of our cash flow seasonality, the first quarter was the highest for tax and royalty payments for the year. These payments, coupled with the final capital spend on Media Luna and limited production, necessitated the net $130 million draw on our credit facility per our plan. As we hit our projected free cash flow inflection point mid-year with completion of Media Luna Project spending, we expect to repay the modest amount of debt drawn quickly, particularly as production ramps up under a backdrop of record gold prices.

"With our highest cash outflow and lowest production quarter of the year now behind us, our focus is set on further unlocking value for our shareholders through returning to positive free cash flow, executing our exploration program across the entire Morelos Property, implementing a formal return of capital policy, delivering on full-year guidance for the seventh consecutive year, and ramping up Media Luna to the designed mining rate by mid-2026."

FIRST QUARTER 2025 HIGHLIGHTS

Safety performance: The Company recorded one lost-time injury during the quarter when a contractor suffered an ankle fracture. As at March 31, 2025, the lost-time injury frequency ("LTIF") for the Morelos Complex was 0.59 per million hours worked for both employees and contractors on a rolling 12-month basis. During the quarter, the internal investigation into the fatal carbon monoxide exposure that occurred in December 2024 was concluded and follow up action items are being tracked to completion. In addition, the Company has embarked on a comprehensive 'Next Level Safety' program with a view to ensuring that the operations resumes and maintains its prior fatality free status.

Gold payable production: On a gold equivalent ounce ("oz AuEq") basis, payable production for the quarter was 59,630 oz AuEq 2 , including 58,330 oz Au. Production in the quarter was as expected and driven by the planned four-week tie-in period at the processing plant in connection with the Media Luna Project. The Company is on track to achieve annual payable production guidance of 400,000 to 450,000 oz AuEq 2 .

Gold sold: The Company sold 60,568 oz AuEq 2 at a record quarterly average realized gold price 1 of $2,793 per oz, contributing to revenue of $170.0 million, which was lower than the quarterly average as sales of metal produced from the new circuits as part of the Media Luna Project commenced in April.

All-in sustaining costs 1 : All-in sustaining costs of $1,405 per oz AuEq sold 2 relative to guidance of $1,400 to $1,600 per oz AuEq sold 2 . All-in sustaining costs margin 1 of $1,388 per oz AuEq sold, implying an all-in sustaining costs margin 1 of 50%. Cost of sales was $94.1 million or $1,554 per oz AuEq sold in the quarter.

Net income and adjusted net earnings 1 : Reported net income of $39.0 million or earnings of $0.45 per share on both a basic and dilutive basis. Adjusted net earnings of $35.9 million or $0.42 per share on a basic basis and $0.41 per share on a diluted basis.

EBITDA 1 and adjusted EBITDA 1 : Generated EBITDA of $88.1 million and adjusted EBITDA of $91.8 million.

Cash flow generation: Net cash used in operating activities totalled $9.9 million and $17.7 million before changes in non-cash operating working capital. Net cash used in operating activities (including changes in non-cash operating working capital) of $9.9 million including income taxes paid of $101.6 million, reflecting the annual payment of mining taxes and annual true-up of corporate income taxes, and payment of the 0.5% royalty in respect of 2024 of $4.7 million. Negative free cash flow 1 of $133.3 million is net of cash outlays for capital expenditures, lease payments, and interest, including borrowing costs capitalized. Negative free cash flow was a result of the lower sales volumes due to the four-week tie-in period at the processing plant and capital expenditures of $123.5 million in the first quarter of 2025.

Financial liquidity: The quarter closed with $197.6 million in available liquidity 1 , including $106.5 million in cash and $91.1 million available on the $300.0 million credit facilities, net of borrowings of $195.0 million and letters of credit outstanding of $13.9 million.

Media Luna Project: In late March, the tie-in period was completed at the processing plant and the Company achieved first production of copper concentrate, marking the substantial completion of the Media Luna Project. Effective April 26, 2025, Media Luna reached the production stage, and commercial production was declared. During the quarter, $55.5 million was invested in the project and as of March 31, 2025, physical progress on the Project was approximately 98%.

Exploration and Drilling Activities: In February, the Company announced results from the ongoing drilling program at Media Luna West and results from initial drill testing at Media Luna East 3 . The advanced exploration drilling program at Media Luna West has defined a mineralized footprint of 600 metres ("m") by 400 m with multiple high-grade intercepts. The intercepts indicate the exploration upside to the west of the defined resource boundaries of Media Luna and EPO. Initial drill testing at Media Luna East returned strong results, with multiple high-grade intercepts, many with copper ("Cu") grades in excess of 2%. Drilling at both targets is part of the Company's exploration strategy, which is focused, in part, on unlocking the resource potential of the Morelos Complex in order to enhance and extend the production profile.

Year-end Mineral Reserves & Resources4: At EPO, an inaugural Probable Reserve of 781 koz AuEq was declared in September 2024 and an updated reserve estimate for EPO is currently being undertaken as part of the internal feasibility study. Due to drilling undertaken in 2024 north of the EPO deposit, Inferred Resources at EPO increased 32% to 954 koz AuEq from 721 koz AuEq. At ELG Underground, drilling was successful at replacing depletion with Proven and Probable Reserves increasing 1% to 662 koz AuEq during the year, supporting a reserve life through early 2029, which assumes an average mining rate of 2,800 tpd through 2026 and approximately 2,000 tpd thereafter. At Media Luna, updated mineral reserves and mineral resources primarily reflect results of definition drilling as well as modest refinements to some stope shapes. With the completion of the Media Luna Project, step-out and infill drilling at Media Luna is set to resume in 2025, with the goal of expanding and upgrading mineral resources as well as replacing mineral reserves. The positive results from the 2024 drilling program solidifies annual payable production of at least 450,000 koz AuEq through 2030 and a reserve life out to at least 2035. With approximately 125,000 m of drilling planned in 2025, almost double the metres drilled in 2024, the Company is focused on enhancing the base case production profile beyond 2030, extending the reserve life of the underground deposits, and further showcasing the underlying potential of the broader Morelos Property by testing several regional targets.

1. These measures are non-GAAP financial measures ("Non-GAAP Measures") which are not standardized financial measures under IFRS, the framework used to prepare the financial statements of the Company and might not be comparable to similar financial measures used by other companies. For a detailed reconciliation of each Non-GAAP Measure to its most directly comparable measure in accordance with the IFRS, see Tables 2 to 11 of this press release. For additional information on these Non-GAAP Measures, please refer to the Company's MD&A for the three months ended March 31, 2025, dated May 7, 2025, which is incorporated by reference into this news release. The MD&A and the Company's unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements and related notes for the three months ended March 31, 2025, are available on Torex's website (www.torexgold.com) and under the Company's SEDAR+ profile (www.sedarplus.ca).

2. Gold equivalent ounces produced and sold include production of silver and copper converted to a gold equivalent based on a ratio of the average market prices for each commodity sold in the period. For the three months ended March 31, 2025, market prices averaged $2,860/oz gold, $31.88/oz silver, and $4.24/lb copper. Guidance for 2025 assumed metal prices of $2,500/oz gold, $28/oz silver, and $4.30/lb copper.

3. For more information on Media Luna drilling results, see the Company's news release titled "Torex Gold Reports Excellent Drill Results from Media Luna West and Initial Results from Media Luna East" issued on February 24, 2025, and filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website at www.torexgold.com.

4. Mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates for the Morelos Complex can be found in tables 12 and 13, respectively, of this press release. AuEq values account for underlying metal prices and metallurgical recoveries used in reserve and resource estimates. For additional information on the mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates for the Morelos Complex, please see the Company's annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2024, or the Company's news release titled "Torex Gold Reports Year-end 2024 Reserves & Resources" issued on March 19, 2025, and filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website at www.torexgold.com.

CONFERENCE CALL AND WEBCAST DETAILS

The Company will host a conference call tomorrow at 9:00 AM (ET) where senior management will discuss the first quarter operating and financial results. For expedited access to the conference call, registration is open to obtain an access code in advance, which will allow participants to join the call directly at the scheduled time. Alternatively, dial-in details are as follows:

Toronto local or International: 1-647-846-8914

Toll-Free (North America): 1-833-752-3842

A live webcast and replay of the conference call will be available on the Company's website at https://torexgold.com/investors/upcoming-events/. The webcast will be archived on the Company's website.

Table 1: Operating and Financial Highlights







Three Months Ended







Mar 31,



Dec 31,



Mar 31,

In millions of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted

2025



2024



2024

Safety

















Lost-time injury frequency1 /million hours

0.59



0.61



0.15

Total recordable injury frequency1 /million hours

1.52



1.48



0.97

Operating Results - Gold Equivalent basis











Gold equivalent payable produced2 oz AuEq

59,630



105,132



117,054

Gold equivalent sold2 oz AuEq

60,568



110,419



114,106

Total cash costs2,3 $/oz AuEq

1,020



932



944

Total cash costs margin2,3 $/oz AuEq

1,773



1,555



1,079

All-in sustaining costs2,3 $/oz AuEq

1,405



1,112



1,222

All-in sustaining costs margin2,3 $/oz AuEq

1,388



1,375



801

Average realized gold price2,3 $/oz

2,793



2,487



2,023

Financial Results











Revenue $

170.0



295.0



236.5

Cost of sales $

94.1



153.5



157.4

Earnings from mine operations $

75.9



141.5



79.1

Net income $

39.0



60.4



43.1

Per share - Basic $/share

0.45



0.70



0.50

Per share - Diluted $/share

0.45



0.69



0.50

Adjusted net earnings3 $

35.9



70.6



35.9

Per share - Basic3 $/share

0.42



0.82



0.42

Per share - Diluted3 $/share

0.41



0.81



0.42

EBITDA3 $

88.1



162.8



98.0

Adjusted EBITDA3 $

91.8



154.3



113.2

Cost of sales - gold equivalent basis $/oz AuEq

1,554



1,390



1,378

Net cash (used in) generated from operating activities $

(9.9 )

122.8



79.8

Net cash (used in) generated from operating activities before changes in non-cash operating working capital $

(17.7 )

136.3



72.5

Free cash flow3 $

(133.3 )

(7.7 )

(59.4 ) Cash and cash equivalents $

106.5



110.2



113.2

Debt, net of deferred finance charges $

193.1



62.9



-

Lease-related obligations $

86.5



78.3



44.0

Net (debt) cash3 $

(175.0 )

(33.1 )

69.2

Available liquidity3 $

197.6



331.5



405.3





1. On a 12-month rolling basis, per million hours worked.

2. Gold equivalent ounces produced and sold include production of silver and copper converted to a gold equivalent based on a ratio of the average market prices for each commodity sold in the period. Refer to the "Gold Equivalent Reporting" section of the Company's MD&A for the three months ended March 31, 2025, dated May 7, 2025 for the relevant average market prices by commodity, available on Torex's website (www.torexgold.com) and under the Company's SEDAR+ profile (www.sedarplus.ca).

3. Total cash costs, total cash costs margin, all-in sustaining costs, all-in sustaining costs margin, average realized gold price, adjusted net earnings, adjusted net earnings per share, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, free cash flow, net (debt) cash and available liquidity are non-GAAP financial measures with no standardized meaning under IFRS and might not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers. For a detailed reconciliation of each Non-GAAP Measure to its most directly comparable measure in accordance with the IFRS as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board see Tables 2 to 11 of this press release. For additional information on these Non-GAAP Measures, please refer to the Company's MD&A for the three months ended March 31, 2025, dated May 7, 2025. The MD&A and the Company's the Company's unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements and related notes for the three months ended March 31, 2025, are available on Torex's website (www.torexgold.com) and under the Company's SEDAR+ profile (www.sedarplus.ca)

Table 2: Reconciliation of Total Cash Costs and All-in Sustaining Costs to Production Costs and Royalties







Three Months Ended







Mar 31,



Dec 31,



Mar 31,

In millions of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted



2025



2024



2024

Gold sold oz

59,756



108,647



111,642























Total cash costs per oz sold



















Production costs1 $

56.2



94.7



100.8

Royalties $

6.0



8.2



6.9

Less: Silver sales $

(1.1 )

(1.8 )

(1.5 ) Less: Copper sales $

(1.2 )

(3.1 )

(3.7 ) Less: Realized gain on foreign currency contracts $

(0.4 )

-



-

Total cash costs $

59.5



98.0



102.5

Total cash costs per oz sold $/oz

996



902



918

















All-in sustaining costs per oz sold













Total cash costs $

59.5



98.0



102.5

General and administrative costs2 $

8.7



7.3



8.0

Reclamation and remediation costs $

1.0



1.0



1.3

Sustaining capital expenditure $

13.6



11.6



22.4

Total all-in sustaining costs $

82.8



117.9



134.2

Total all-in sustaining costs per oz sold $/oz

1,386



1,085



1,202

















Gold equivalent sold3 oz AuEq

60,568



110,419



114,106

















Total cash costs per oz AuEq sold













Production costs1 $

56.2



94.7



100.8

Royalties $

6.0



8.2



6.9

Less: Realized gain on foreign currency contracts $

(0.4 )

-



-

Total cash costs $

61.8



102.9



107.7

Total cash costs per oz AuEq sold3 $/oz AuEq

1,020



932



944

















All-in sustaining costs per oz AuEq sold













Total cash costs $

61.8



102.9



107.7

General and administrative costs2 $

8.7



7.3



8.0

Reclamation and remediation costs $

1.0



1.0



1.3

Sustaining capital expenditure $

13.6



11.6



22.4

Total all-in sustaining costs $

85.1



122.8



139.4

Total all-in sustaining costs per oz AuEq sold3 $/oz AuEq

1,405



1,112



1,222





1. This amount excludes temporary suspension costs of $nil, $3.1 million and $nil for the three months ended March 31, 2025, December 31, 2024, and March 31, 2024, respectively.

2. This amount excludes a loss of $7.6 million, loss of $6.8 million and loss of $4.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, December 31, 2024, and March 31, 2024, respectively, in relation to the remeasurement of share-based payments. This amount also excludes corporate depreciation and amortization expenses totalling $0.1 million, $0.2 million and $0.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, December 31, 2024, and March 31, 2024, respectively, within general and administrative costs. Included in general and administrative costs is share-based compensation expense in the amount of $2.3 million or $38/oz ($38/oz AuEq) for the three months ended March 31, 2025, $1.6 million or $15/oz ($14/oz AuEq) for the three months ended December 31, 2024, $2.3 million or $21/oz ($20/oz AuEq) for the three months ended March 31, 2024. This amount excludes other expenses totalling $nil, $1.4 million and $1.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, December 31, 2024, and March 31, 2024, respectively.

3. Gold equivalent ounces produced and sold include production of silver and copper converted to a gold equivalent based on a ratio of the average market prices for each commodity sold in the period. Refer to the "Gold Equivalent Reporting" section of the Company's MD&A for the three months ended March 31, 2025, dated May 7, 2025 for the relevant average market prices by commodity, available on Torex's website (www.torexgold.com) and under the Company's SEDAR+ profile (www.sedarplus.ca).

Table 3: Reconciliation of Sustaining and Non-Sustaining Capital Expenditures to Additions to Property, Plant and Equipment







Three Months Ended







Mar 31,



Dec 31,



Mar 31,

In millions of U.S. dollars



2025



2024



2024

Sustaining $

13.6



11.6



21.6

Capitalized Stripping (Sustaining) $

-



-



0.8

Total Sustaining $

13.6



11.6



22.4

Non-sustaining













Media Luna Project1 $

55.5



100.5



126.4

EPO Project $

4.0



0.6



-

Media Luna Cluster Drilling and Other $

0.2



2.4



1.3

Working Capital Changes and Other $

50.2



12.7



(24.0 ) Capital expenditures2 $

123.5



127.8



126.1





1. This amount includes a realized gain (or an increase in the capitalized expenditures) of $nil, loss of $0.1 million and gain of $0.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, December 31, 2024, and March 31, 2024, respectively, in relation to the settlement of foreign exchange zero cost collars that were entered into to manage the capital expenditure risk related to a further strengthening of the Mexican peso.

2. The amount of cash expended on additions to property, plant and equipment in the period as reported in the Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Cash Flows.

Table 4: Reconciliation of Average Realized Gold Price and Total Cash Costs Margin to Revenue







Three Months Ended







Mar 31,



Dec 31,



Mar 31,

In millions of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted



2025



2024



2024

Gold sold oz

59,756



108,647



111,642























Revenue $

170.0



295.0



236.5

Less: Silver sales $

(1.1 )

(1.8 )

(1.5 ) Less: Copper sales $

(1.2 )

(3.1 )

(3.7 ) Less: Realized loss on gold contracts $

(0.8 )

(19.9 )

(5.4 ) Total proceeds $

166.9



270.2



225.9

Average realized gold price $/oz

2,793



2,487



2,023

















Less: Total cash costs $/oz

996



902



918

Total cash costs margin $/oz

1,797



1,585



1,105

Total cash costs margin %

64



64



55

















Gold equivalent sold1 oz AuEq

60,568



110,419



114,106

















Revenue $

170.0



295.0



236.5

Less: Realized loss on gold contracts $

(0.8 )

(19.9 )

(5.4 ) Total proceeds $

169.2



275.1



231.1

Average realized gold price $/oz

2,793



2,487



2,023

















Less: Total cash costs1 $/oz AuEq

1,020



932



944

Total cash costs margin1 $/oz AuEq

1,773



1,555



1,079

Total cash costs margin %

63



63



53



1. Gold equivalent ounces produced and sold include production of silver and copper converted to a gold equivalent based on a ratio of the average market prices for each commodity sold in the period. Refer to the "Gold Equivalent Reporting" section of the Company's MD&A for the three months ended March 31, 2025, dated May 7, 2025 for the relevant average market prices by commodity, available on Torex's website (www.torexgold.com) and under the Company's SEDAR+ profile (www.sedarplus.ca).

Table 5: Reconciliation of All-in Sustaining Costs Margin to Revenue







Three Months Ended







Mar 31,



Dec 31,



Mar 31,

In millions of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted



2025



2024



2024

Gold sold oz

59,756



108,647



111,642























Revenue $

170.0



295.0



236.5

Less: Silver sales $

(1.1 )

(1.8 )

(1.5 ) Less: Copper sales $

(1.2 )

(3.1 )

(3.7 ) Less: Realized loss on gold contracts $

(0.8 )

(19.9 )

(5.4 ) Less: All-in sustaining costs $

(82.8 )

(117.9 )

(134.2 ) All-in sustaining costs margin $

84.1



152.3



91.7

















Average realized gold price $/oz

2,793



2,487



2,023

















Total all-in sustaining costs margin $/oz

1,407



1,402



821

Total all-in sustaining costs margin %

50



56



41

















Gold equivalent sold1 oz AuEq

60,568



110,419



114,106

















Revenue $

170.0



295.0



236.5

Less: Realized loss on gold contracts $

(0.8 )

(19.9 )

(5.4 ) Less: All-in sustaining costs $

(85.1 )

(122.8 )

(139.4 ) All-in sustaining costs margin $

84.1



152.3



91.7

















Average realized gold price $/oz

2,793



2,487



2,023

















Total all-in sustaining costs margin1 $/oz AuEq

1,388



1,375



801

Total all-in sustaining costs margin %

50



55



40



1. Gold equivalent ounces produced and sold include production of silver and copper converted to a gold equivalent based on a ratio of the average market prices for each commodity sold in the period. Refer to the "Gold Equivalent Reporting" section of the Company's MD&A for the three months ended March 31, 2025, dated May 7, 2025 for the relevant average market prices by commodity, available on Torex's website (www.torexgold.com) and under the Company's SEDAR+ profile (www.sedarplus.ca).



Table 6: Reconciliation of Adjusted Net Earnings to Net Income







Three Months Ended

In millions of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted



Mar 31,



Dec 31,



Mar 31,





2025



2024



2024

Basic weighted average shares outstanding shares

86,125,855



85,988,115



85,949,559

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding shares

87,326,899



87,414,063



86,499,360

















Net income $

39.0



60.4



43.1

















Adjustments:













Temporary suspension costs $

-



3.1



-

Unrealized foreign exchange gain $

(0.7 )

(2.0 )

(0.6 ) Unrealized (gain) loss on derivative contracts $

(3.2 )

(16.4 )

11.6

Loss on remeasurement of share-based payments $

7.6



6.8



4.2

Derecognition of provisions for uncertain tax positions $

(9.2 )

-



(12.1 ) Tax effect of above adjustments $

1.2



4.6



(3.3 ) Tax effect of currency translation on tax base $

1.2



14.1



(7.0 ) Adjusted net earnings $

35.9



70.6



35.9

Per share - Basic $/share

0.42



0.82



0.42

Per share - Diluted $/share

0.41



0.81



0.42



Table 7: Reconciliation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to Net Income







Three Months Ended







Mar 31,



Dec 31,



Mar 31,

In millions of U.S. dollars



2025



2024



2024

Net income $

39.0



60.4



43.1























Finance costs (income), net $

2.6



(0.3)



(1.7)

Depreciation and amortization1 $

32.0



47.7



49.8

Current income tax expense $

6.0



42.9



26.2

Deferred income tax expense (recovery) $

8.5



12.1



(19.4)

EBITDA $

88.1



162.8



98.0























Adjustments:



















Temporary suspension costs $

-



3.1



-

Unrealized (gain) loss on derivative contracts $

(3.2)



(16.4)



11.6

Unrealized foreign exchange gain $

(0.7)



(2.0)



(0.6)

Loss on remeasurement of share-based payments $

7.6



6.8



4.2

Adjusted EBITDA $

91.8



154.3



113.2



1. Includes depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, general and administrative expenses and exploration and evaluation expenses.





Table 8: Reconciliation of Free Cash Flow to Net Cash Generated from Operating Activities







Three Months Ended







Mar 31,



Dec 31,



Mar 31,

In millions of U.S. dollars



2025



2024



2024

Net cash (used in) generated from operating activities $

(9.9 )

122.8



79.8

Less:













Additions to property, plant and equipment1 $

(123.5 )

(127.8 )

(126.1 ) Value-added tax receivables, net $

7.6



3.1



(10.3 ) Lease payments $

(3.4 )

(2.9 )

(1.4 ) Interest and other borrowing costs paid2 $

(4.1 )

(2.9 )

(1.4 ) Free cash flow $

(133.3 )

(7.7 )

(59.4 )

1. The amount of cash expended on additions to property, plant and equipment in the period as reported on the Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Cash Flows.

2. Including borrowing costs capitalized to property, plant and equipment.





Table 9: Reconciliation of Net (Debt) Cash to Cash and Cash Equivalents







Mar 31,





Dec 31,



Mar 31,

In millions of U.S. dollars



2025





2024



2024

Cash and cash equivalents $

106.5





110.2



113.2

Less:

















Debt $

(193.1)





(62.9 )

-

Lease-related obligations $

(86.5 )



(78.3 )

(44.0 ) Deferred finance charges $

(1.9 )



(2.1 )

-

Net (debt) cash $

(175.0 )



(33.1 )

69.2



Table 10: Reconciliation of Available Liquidity to Cash and Cash Equivalents







Mar 31,



Dec 31,



Mar 31,

In millions of U.S. dollars



2025



2024



2024

Cash and cash equivalents $

106.5



110.2



113.2

Add: Available credit of the Debt Facility $

91.1



221.3



292.1

Available liquidity $

197.6



331.5



405.3



Table 11: Reconciliation of Unit Cost Measures to Production Costs





Three Months Ended

In millions of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted

Mar 31, 2025









Dec 31, 2024









Mar 31, 2024







Gold sold (oz AuEq)

60,568









110,419









114,106







Gold sold (oz)

59,756









108,647









111,642







Tonnes mined - ELG open pit (kt)

672









2,400









8,981







Tonnes mined - ELG underground (kt)

187









207









168







Tonnes processed (kt)

705







1,094







1,194





Total cash costs:























Total cash costs ($) - gold equivalent basis

61.8







102.9







107.7





Total cash costs per oz AuEq sold ($)

1,020







932







944





Total cash costs ($) - gold only basis

59.5







98.0







102.5





Total cash costs per oz sold ($)

996







902







918





Breakdown of production costs

$



$/t



$



$/t



$



$/t

Mining - open pit

6.0



8.87



14.1



5.85



31.6



3.52

Mining - underground

15.0



80.45



12.4



60.07



13.8



82.34

Processing

25.2



35.72



42.9



39.21



42.5



35.64

Site support

8.1



11.53



16.0



14.60



14.3



12.00

Mexican profit sharing (PTU)

2.1



2.98



4.7



4.30



3.0



2.50

Capitalized stripping

-







-







(0.8 )



Inventory movement

(1.5 )





6.6







(4.3 )



Other

1.3







1.1







0.7





Production costs

56.2







97.8







100.8







Table 12: Mineral Reserve Estimate - Morelos Complex (December 31, 2024)(2*)



Tonnes Au Ag Cu Au Ag Cu AuEq AuEq

(kt) (gpt) (gpt) (%) (koz) (koz) (Mlb) (gpt) (koz) Media Luna Underground

















Proven 2,834 3.14 31.0 1.01 286 2,826 63 5.18 471 Probable 21,347 2.42 24.7 0.86 1,661 16,962 404 4.14 2,840 Proven & Probable 24,180 2.50 25.5 0.88 1,946 19,788 467 4.26 3,311 ELG Underground

















Proven 1,441 4.89 8.0 0.26 226 372 8 5.41 251 Probable 2,578 4.47 7.9 0.24 370 657 14 4.96 411 Proven & Probable 4,019 4.62 8.0 0.25 597 1,029 22 5.12 662 EPO Underground

















Proven - - - - - - - - - Probable 5,029 2.27 29.8 1.29 367 4,820 143 4.83 781 Proven & Probable 5,029 2.27 29.8 1.29 367 4,820 143 4.83 781 ELG Open Pit

















Proven 62 2.78 8.3 0.14 6 16 0 2.86 6 Probable 883 2.53 12.6 0.37 72 357 7 2.68 76 Proven & Probable 945 2.55 12.3 0.36 77 373 7 2.69 82 Surface Stockpiles

















Proven 6,235 1.19 4.2 0.12 239 842 16 1.30 261 Probable - - - - - - - - - Proven & Probable 6,235 1.19 4.2 0.12 239 842 16 1.30 261 Total Morelos Complex

















Proven 10,571 2.23 11.9 0.37 756 4,056 87 2.91 988 Probable 29,836 2.57 23.8 0.86 2,470 22,796 568 4.28 4,108 Proven & Probable 40,408 2.48 20.7 0.74 3,226 26,851 656 3.92 5,096

Notes to accompany the mineral reserve table:

1. Mineral reserves were developed in accordance with CIM (2014) guidelines.

2. Mineral reserves are founded on Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources, with an effective date of December 31, 2024 (unless otherwise noted).

3. Rounding may result in apparent summation differences between tonnes, grade, and contained metal content. Surface Stockpile mineral reserves are estimated using production and survey data and apply the gold equivalent ("AuEq") formula for the intended processing method.

4. AuEq of Total Morelos Complex is established from combined contributions of the various deposits.

5. The qualified person for the mineral reserve estimate is Johannes (Gertjan) Bekkers, P. Eng., VP of Mines Technical Services.

6. The qualified person is not aware of mining, metallurgical, infrastructure, permitting, or other factors that materially affect the mineral reserve estimates.

Notes to accompany the Media Luna Underground mineral reserves:

1. Media Luna Underground mineral reserves are reported above an in-situ ore cut-off grade of 2.4 g/t AuEq.

2. Media Luna Underground cut-off grades and mining shapes are considered appropriate for a metal price of $1,500/oz gold ("Au"), $19/oz silver ("Ag") and $3.50/lb copper ("Cu") and metal recoveries of 90% Au, 86% Ag, and 93% Cu.

3. Mineral reserves within designed mine shapes assume long-hole open stoping, supplemented with mechanized cut-and-fill mining and includes estimates for dilution and mining losses.

4. Media Luna Underground (including Media Luna surface stockpiles) AuEq = Au (g/t) + Ag (g/t) * (0.0121) + Cu (%) * (1.6533), accounting for metal prices and metallurgical recoveries.

Notes to accompany the ELG Underground mineral reserves:

1. El Limon Underground mineral reserves are reported above an in-situ ore cut-off grade of 2.8 g/t AuEq and an in-situ incremental cut-off grade of 1.6 g/t AuEq.

2. Cut-off grades and mining shapes are considered appropriate for a metal price of $1,500/oz Au, $19/oz Ag, and $3.50/lb Cu and metal recoveries of 90% Au, 86% Ag, and 93% Cu, accounting for the planned copper concentrator.

3. Mineral reserves within designed mine shapes assume mechanized cut and fill supplemented with long hole mining method and include estimates for dilution and mining losses.

4. ELG Underground AuEq = Au (g/t) + Ag (g/t) * (0.0121) + Cu (%) * (1.6533), accounting for metal prices and metallurgical recoveries.

Notes to accompany the EPO Underground mineral reserves:

1. Mineral reserves for EPO Underground have an effective date of June 30, 2024.

2. *Mineral reserves are based on EPO Underground Indicated Mineral Resources with an effective date of December 31, 2023.

3. EPO Underground mineral reserves are reported above an in-situ ore cut-off grade of 2.5 gpt AuEq.

4. EPO Underground cut-off grade and mining shapes are considered appropriate for a metal price of $1,500/oz Au, $19/oz Ag, and $3.50/lb Cu and metal recoveries of 87% Au, 85% Ag, and 92% Cu.

5. Mineral reserves within designed mine shapes assume long-hole open stoping and include estimates for dilution and mining losses.

6. EPO Underground AuEq = Au (gpt) + Ag (gpt) * (0.0124) + Cu (%) * (1.6920), accounting for metal prices and metallurgical recoveries.

Notes to accompany the ELG Open Pit mineral reserves and Surface Stockpiles:

1. ELG Open Pit mineral reserves are reported above an in-situ cut-off grade of 1.2 g/t Au and including low grade mineral reserves are reported above an in-situ cut-off grade of 0.88 g/t Au.

2. It is planned that ELG low grade mineral reserves within the designed pit will be stockpiled during pit operation and processed during pit closure.

3. Mineral reserves within the designed pit include assumed estimates for dilution and ore losses.

4. Cut-off grades and designed pits are considered appropriate for a metal price of $1,500/oz Au and metal recovery of 89% Au.

5. Mineral reserves are reported using an Au price of $1,500/oz, Ag price of $19/oz, and Cu price of $3.50/lb.

6. Average metallurgical recoveries of 89% for Au, 30% for Ag, and 15% for Cu.

7. ELG Open Pit (including open pit surface stockpiles) AuEq = Au (g/t) + Ag (g/t) * (0.0043) + Cu (%) * (0.2697), accounting for metal prices and metallurgical recoveries.

Table 13: Mineral Resource Estimate - Morelos Complex (December 31, 2024)



Tonnes Au Ag Cu Au Ag Cu AuEq AuEq

(kt) (gpt) (gpt) (%) (koz) (koz) (Mlb) (gpt) (koz) Media Luna Underground

















Measured 2,994 3.95 40.0 1.30 380 3,855 86 6.55 630 Indicated 26,120 2.83 30.2 1.05 2,374 25,385 603 4.90 4,114 Measured & Indicated 29,114 2.94 31.2 1.07 2,754 29,240 689 5.07 4,744 Inferred 7,675 2.38 22.8 0.90 587 5,632 152 4.12 1,017 ELG Underground

















Measured 3,164 5.04 7.4 0.27 512 751 19 5.56 566 Indicated 5,287 4.42 8.9 0.28 752 1,521 33 4.99 848 Measured & Indicated 8,451 4.65 8.4 0.28 1,264 2,272 51 5.20 1,414 Inferred 1,961 3.86 7.8 0.21 243 490 9 4.30 271 EPO Underground

















Measured - - - - - - - - - Indicated 7,060 2.66 31.2 1.28 604 7,082 200 5.18 1,176 Measured & Indicated 7,060 2.66 31.2 1.28 604 7,082 200 5.18 1,176 Inferred 6,883 1.76 39.3 1.24 390 8,690 188 4.31 954 ELG Open Pit

















Measured 189 3.89 7.0 0.20 24 43 1 3.97 24 Indicated 865 2.46 9.0 0.43 69 251 8 2.62 73 Measured & Indicated 1,054 2.72 8.7 0.38 92 294 9 2.86 97 Inferred 6 3.56 5.9 0.24 1 1 0 3.65 1 Total Morelos Complex

















Measured 6,347 4.49 22.8 0.75 916 4,649 105 5.98 1,220 Indicated 39,332 3.00 27.1 0.97 3,798 34,239 844 4.91 6,211 Measured & Indicated 45,679 3.21 26.5 0.94 4,714 38,888 949 5.06 7,431 Inferred 16,526 2.30 27.9 0.96 1,222 14,813 349 4.22 2,243

Notes to accompany the mineral resource table:

1. Mineral resources were prepared in accordance with the CIM Definition Standards (May 2014).

2. The effective date of the estimates is December 31, 2024.

3. Mineral resources are depleted above a mining surface or to the as-mined solids as of December 31, 2024.

4. Gold equivalent ("AuEq") of total mineral resources is established from combined contributions of the various deposits.

5. Mineral resources for all deposits are based on an underlying gold ("Au") price of $1,650/oz, silver ("Ag") price of $22/oz, and copper ("Cu") price of $3.75/lb.

6. Mineral resources are inclusive of mineral reserves (ex-stockpiles). Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

7. Numbers may not add due to rounding.

8. Mineral resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, sociopolitical, marketing, or other relevant issues.

9. The estimate was prepared by Mrs. Rochelle Collins, P.Geo. (Ontario), Principal, Mineral Resources.

Notes to accompany Media Luna Underground mineral resources:

1. Mineral resources for Media Luna Underground are reported above a 2.0 gpt AuEq cut-off grade. The assumed underground mining methods are a combination of long-hole open stoping and mechanized cut-and-fill.

2. Mi neral resources were estimated using ID3 methods applied to 1.0 m capped downhole assay composites within lithology domains and internal grade domains. Block model size is 5 m x 5 m x 5 m with 2.5 m x 2.5 m x 2.5 m sub-blocks.

3. Metallurgical recoveries at Media Luna Underground average 90% Au, 86% Ag, and 93% Cu.

4. The dataset allowed the bulk density to be directly estimated into the domains with an average bulk density of 3.2 g/cm3.

5. Media Luna Underground AuEq = Au (gpt) + (Ag (gpt) * 0.0127) + (Cu (%) * 1.6104), accounting for underlying metal prices and metallurgical recoveries.

Notes to accompany ELG Underground mineral resources:

1. Mineral resources for ELG Underground are reported above a cut-off grade of 2.2 gpt AuEq. The assumed underground mining method is mechanized cut-and-fill.

2. Mineral resources were estimated using ID3 methods applied to 1.0 m capped downhole assay composites within lithology domains and internal grade domains. Block model size is 5 m x 5 m x 5m with 2.5 m x 2.5 m x 2.5m sub-blocks.

3. Average metallurgical recoveries are 90% Au, 86% Ag, and 93% Cu, accounting for recoveries with planned copper concentrator.

4. The dataset allowed the bulk density to be directly estimated into the domains with an average bulk density of 3.4 g/cm3.

5. ELG Underground AuEq = Au (gpt) + (Ag (gpt) * 0.0127) + (Cu (%) * 1.6104), accounting for underlying metal prices and metallurgical recoveries.

Notes to accompany EPO Underground mineral resources:

1. Mineral resources for EPO Underground are reported above a 2.0 gpt AuEq cut-off grade. The assumed mining method is from underground methods, using long-hole open stoping.

2. Mineral resources were estimated using ID3 methods applied to 1.0 m capped downhole assay composites within lithology domains and internal grade domains. Block model size is 5 m x 5 m x 5m with 2.5 m x 2.5 m x 2.5 m sub-blocks.

3. Metallurgical recoveries at EPO average 87% Au, 85% Ag, and 92% Cu.

4. The dataset allowed the bulk density to be directly estimated into the domains with an average bulk density of 3.5 g/cm3.

5. EPO Underground AuEq = Au (gpt) + (Ag (gpt) * 0.0130) + (Cu (%) * 1.6480), accounting for underlying metal prices and metallurgical recoveries.

Notes to accompany the ELG Open Pit mineral resources:

1. Mineral resources for ELG Open Pit are reported above an in-situ cut-off grade of 0.78 gpt Au.

2. Mineral resources were estimated using ID3 methods applied to 1.0 m capped downhole assay composites within lithology domains and internal grade domains. Block model size is 5 m x 5 m x 5m with 2.5 m x 2.5 m x 2.5 m sub-blocks. Mineral resources are reported inside an optimized pit shell, underground mineral reserves at ELD within the El Limon pit shell have been excluded from the open pit mineral resources.

3. Average metallurgical recoveries are 89% Au, 30% Ag, and 15% Cu.

4. The dataset allowed the bulk density to be directly estimated into the domains with an average bulk density of 3.4 g/cm3.

5. ELG Open Pit AuEq = Au (gpt) + (Ag (gpt) * 0.0045) + (Cu (%) * 0.2627), accounting for underlying metal prices and metallurgical recoveries.

ABOUT TOREX GOLD RESOURCES INC.

Torex Gold Resources Inc. is an intermediate gold producer based in Canada, engaged in the exploration, development, and operation of its 100% owned Morelos Property (the "Morelos Property"), an area of 29,000 hectares in the highly prospective Guerrero Gold Belt located 180 kilometres southwest of Mexico City.

The Company's principal asset is the Morelos Complex, which includes the producing Media Luna Underground, ELG Underground, and ELG Open Pit mines, the development stage EPO Underground Project, a processing plant, and related infrastructure. Commercial production from the Morelos Complex commenced on April 1, 2016 and an updated Technical Report for the Morelos Complex was released in March 2022.

Torex's key strategic objectives are: deliver Media Luna to full production and build EPO; optimize Morelos production and costs; grow reserves and resources; disciplined growth and capital allocation; retain and attract best industry talent; and industry leader in responsible mining. In addition to realizing the full potential of the Morelos Property, the Company is seeking opportunities to acquire assets that enable diversification and deliver value to shareholders.

QUALIFIED PERSONS

The scientific and technical data contained in this news release pertaining to mineral resources have been reviewed and approved by Rochelle Collins, P.Geo., Principal, Mineral Resource Geologist with Torex Gold, who is a qualified person as defined by NI 43-101.

The scientific and technical data contained in this news release pertaining to mineral reserves have been reviewed and approved by Johannes (Gertjan) Bekkers, P.Eng., the Vice-President, Mines Technical Services for Torex Gold, who is a qualified person as defined by NI 43-101.

CAUTIONARY NOTES ON FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information also includes, but is not limited to, statements that: the Company is at the beginning of its transition back to positive free cash flow generation; production is expected to pick up during the second quarter through the early stages of ramp up and increase further through the back half of the year, with annual guidance being maintained; as the Company hits its projected free cash flow inflection point mid-year with completion of Media Luna Project spending, the Company expects to repay the modest amount of debt drawn quickly, particularly as production ramps up under a backdrop of record gold prices; the Company's focus is set on further unlocking value for our shareholders through returning to positive free cash flow, executing its exploration program success across the entire Morelos Property, implementing a formal return of capital policy, delivering on full-year guidance for the seventh consecutive year, and ramping up Media Luna to the designed mining rate by mid-2026; the Company is on track to achieve annual payable production guidance of 400,000 to 450,000 oz AuEq; the Company's exploration strategy is focused, in part, on unlocking the resource potential of the Morelos Complex in order to enhance and extend the production profile; the Company is focused on enhancing the base case production profile beyond 2030, extending the reserve life of the underground deposits, and further showcasing the underlying potential of the broader Morelos Property by testing several regional targets and key strategic objectives are: deliver Media Luna to full production and build EPO; optimize Morelos production and costs; grow reserves and resources; disciplined growth and capital allocation; retain and attract best industry talent; and industry leader in responsible mining. Generally, forward-looking information and statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "forecast," "plans," "expects," or "does not expect," "is expected," "strategic," "to be" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will", "may," "could," "would," "might," "on track,", or "well positioned to" occur. 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, without limitation, risks and uncertainties identified in the technical report (the "Technical Report") released on March 31, 2022, entitled "NI 43-101 Technical Report ELG Mine Complex Life Of Mine Plan and Media Luna Feasibility Study", which has an effective date of March 16, 2022, and the Company's annual information form ("AIF") and management's discussion and analysis ("MD&A") or other unknown but potentially significant impacts. Forward-looking information and statements are based on the assumptions discussed in the Technical Report, AIF and MD&A and such other reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis and opinions of management made in light of its experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, and other factors that management believes are relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date such statements are made. Although the company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated. There can be no assurance that such 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. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information or future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. The Technical Report, MD&A and AIF are filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and available on the Company's website at www.torexgold.com.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251143

SOURCE: Torex Gold Resources Inc.
A surprise bit of celebrity scandal unfolded at the 61st Baeksang Arts Awards on Sunday as actress Song Hye-Kyo was seen attending the prestigious event with two of her past A-list actor boyfriends, Hyun Bin and Lee Byung-hun.

Although the three stars did not appear together in any official capacity or pose for photos, their simultaneous presence at the awards show was enough to ignite widespread online speculation and social media buzz.

The ceremony, held May 5 in Seoul, marked one of the rare occasions in which the trio was seen at the same high-profile event since their respective breakups.

Fans quickly took to forums and social media platforms to dissect what many perceived as subtle tension, particularly in a moment involving Lee.

A clip circulated online showing Lee Byung-hun with a notably stiff expression as a past video of Song Hye-kyo's acceptance speech played on the large screen.

Netizens had mixed reactions to the actor's manner  some thought of him as indifferent and cold, while some dismissed it as sheer coincidence.

Meanwhile, Hyun Bin maintained a calm and neutral presence throughout the evening, garnering less attention compared to his fellow attendees.

Song, 43, remains single and a successful actor. Known for her elegance and longevity in the industry, she remains one of Korea's most beloved actresses.

Her two exes, however, have since moved on  Lee Byung-hun is married to actress Lee Min-jung and is a father to two children, while Hyun Bin tied the knot with actress Son Ye-jin in 2022 and also has a child.

Though no direct interaction between the former couples was captured during the event, their coincidental attendance proved enough to dominate headlines and fan discussions.

One user wrote, "One cold glance was all it took to send the internet into chaos."

The Baeksang Arts Awards, considered one of South Korea's most prestigious award shows honoring excellence in film, television, and theater, was otherwise filled with memorable moments  but for many viewers, this unexpected reunion stole the spotlight.
New corporate presentation and management webcast available for replay on website

Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - OBSIDIAN ENERGY LTD. (TSX: OBE) (NYSE American: OBE) ("Obsidian Energy", the "Company", "we", "us" or "our") is pleased to announce that at our annual and special meeting of shareholders held on May 7, 2025, Obsidian Energy's shareholders approved all resolutions outlined in the Notice of 2025 Annual and Special Meeting and Management Proxy Circular dated March 15, 2025 (the "Information Circular"), which is available on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca, on EDGAR at www.sec.gov, and on Obsidian Energy's website at www.obsidianenergy.com.

Appointment of Auditor

By resolution passed by show of hands, KPMG LLP, Chartered Accountants, was appointed as auditor of the Company for the ensuing year.

Election of Directors

By resolutions passed by ballot vote, the following seven nominees proposed by management were elected as directors of the Company to hold office until the next annual meeting of Shareholders or until their successors are elected or appointed:



Votes For Percent Votes Withheld Percent Shani Bosman 24,807,037 84.0% 4,711,630 16.0% John Brydson 25,745,947 87.2% 3,772,720 12.8% Raymond D. Crossley 27,281,728 92.4% 2,236,939 7.6% Michael J. Faust 25,942,964 87.9% 3,575,703 12.1% Edward H. Kernaghan 25,852,852 87.6% 3,665,815 12.4% Stephen Loukas 27,629,002 93.6% 1,889,665 6.4% Gordon Ritchie 27,826,897 94.3% 1,691,770 5.7%

Non-Binding Advisory Vote on the Corporation's Approach to Executive Compensation



By resolution passed by ballot vote, an advisory resolution was passed to approve the Company's approach to executive compensation as outlined in the Information Circular. The results of the ballot were as follows:

Votes For Percent Votes Against Percent 23,678,703 80.2% 5,839,964 19.8%

NEW CORPORATE PRESENTATION AND WEBCAST

Today, Obsidian Energy's management team provided a corporate update and question-and-answer session through a live webcast presentation on the Internet (the "Presentation") for investors, shareholders and stakeholders. The associated updated corporate presentation was posted to our website, and the full webcast Presentation is available for replay either through our website or directly at the webcast portal.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251229

SOURCE: Obsidian Energy Ltd.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Onyx Gold Corp. (TSXV: ONYX) (OTCQX: ONXGF) ("Onyx" or the "Company") announces today that it has entered into an agreement with Cormark Securities Inc. and and Agentis Capital Markets Limited Partnership, as co-lead underwriters on behalf of a syndicate of underwriters (collectively, the "Underwriters"), in connection with a "bought deal" private placement of 5,000,000 common shares of the Company that qualify as "flow-through shares" (within the meaning of subsection 66(15) of the Tax (as defined below) (the "FT Shares") at a price of $1.00 per FT Share, for gross proceeds of $5,000,000 (the "Offering").

Concurrent with the Offering, the Company intends to complete a non-brokered private placement with a strategic investor, a large international gold mining company, of 3,490,343 common shares of the Company ("Non-FT Shares") at a price of $0.85 per Non-FT Share for aggregate gross proceeds of approximately $3,000,000 (the "Concurrent Private Placement"). The Company expects aggregate gross proceeds of approximately $8,000,000 between both the Offering and the Concurrent Private Placement.

The $3.0 million Non-FT Share placement by the strategic investor is anticipated to bring their total holdings to 9.9% of the Company's issued and outstanding shares on a pro-forma basis.

The Company will use an amount equal to the gross proceeds received by the Company from the sale of the FT Shares, pursuant to the provisions in the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the "Tax Act"), to incur (or be deemed to incur) eligible "Canadian exploration expenses" that qualify as "flow-through critical mineral mining expenditures" (as both terms are defined in the Tax Act) (the "Qualifying Expenditures") related to the Company's projects in Ontario and the Yukon, on or before December 31, 2026, and to renounce all the Qualifying Expenditures in favour of the subscribers of the FT Shares effective December 31, 2025. If the Qualifying Expenditures are reduced by the Canada Revenue Agency, the Company will indemnify each FT Share subscriber for any additional taxes payable by such subscriber as a result of the Company's failure to renounce the Qualifying Expenditures as agreed.

The net proceeds of the Concurrent Private Placement will be used by the Company for exploration of its mineral properties and general corporate purposes.

The Offering and Concurrent Private Placement are expected to close on or about May 22, 2025, or such other date as the Company and the Underwriters may agree and is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary regulatory and other approvals including the conditional approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

Subject to compliance with applicable regulatory requirements and in accordance with National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions ("NI 45-106"), the FT Shares will be offered for sale to purchasers resident in all Provinces of Canada except for Quebec and/or other qualifying jurisdictions pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption under Part 5A of NI 45-106 (the "Listed Issuer Financing Exemption"). The FT Shares issued under the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption will not be subject to a hold period pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws. The Non-FT Shares will be offered by way of the minimum amount exemption provided under Section 2.10 of NI 45-106 and will be subject to a hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance in accordance with applicable securities laws.

There is an offering document related to the Offering and the use by the Company of the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption that can be accessed under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website at www.onyxgold.com. Prospective investors should read this offering document before making an investment decision.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of any of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful, including any of the securities in the United States of America. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for account or benefit of, U.S. persons unless registered under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration requirements is available. "United States" and "U.S. person" have the meaning ascribed to them in Regulation S under the 1933 Act.

About Onyx Gold

Onyx Gold is an exploration company focused on well-established Canadian mining jurisdictions, with assets in Timmins, Ontario, and Yukon Territory. The Company's extensive portfolio of quality gold projects in the greater Timmins gold camp includes the Munro-Croesus Gold property, renowned for its high-grade mineralization, plus two additional earlier-stage large exploration properties, Golden Mile and Timmins South. Onyx Gold also controls four properties in the Selwyn Basin area of Yukon Territory, which is currently gaining significance due to recent discoveries in the area. Onyx Gold's experienced board and senior management team are committed to creating shareholder value through the discovery process, careful allocation of capital, and environmentally/socially responsible mineral exploration.

On Behalf of Onyx Gold Corp.

"Brock Colterjohn"

President & CEO

For further information, please visit the Onyx Gold Corp. website at www.onyxgold.com or contact:

Website: www.onyxgold.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyx-gold-corp/?viewAsMember=true

Twitter: https://twitter.com/OnyxGoldCorp

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.

Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements

This release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur". This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forward-looking statements", are not historical facts, are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, statements about the Offering (including the completion of the Offering on the terms and timeline as announced or at all, the tax treatment of the FT Shares, the timing to renounce all Qualifying Expenditures in favour of the subscribers and use of proceeds of the Offering), statements about the Concurrent Private Placement (including the completion of the Offering on the terms and timeline as announced or at all), statements regarding discussions of future plans, estimates and forecasts and statements as to management's expectations and intentions and the Company's anticipated work programs.

These forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, that the Offering will not close on the anticipated timeline or at all on the anticipated terms; that the Concurrent Private Placement will not close on the anticipated timeline or at all on the anticipated terms; that the Company will not use the net proceeds of the Offering and the Concurrent Private Placement as anticipated; that the Company will not receive all necessary approvals in respect of the Offering and Concurrent Private Placement; market volatility; the state of the financial markets for the Company's securities; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development; fluctuating commodity prices; the future tax treatment of the FT Shares; competitive risks; and the availability of financing, as described in more detail in our recent securities filings available at under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

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, including, among other things, that the Offering will close on the anticipated timeline or at all and on the anticipated terms; that the Concurrent Private Placement will close on the anticipated timeline or at all and on the anticipated terms; that the Company will use the net proceeds of the Offering and the Concurrent Private Placement as anticipated; and that the Company will receive all necessary approvals in respect of the Offering and the Concurrent Private Placement, if applicable.

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 out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. We seek safe harbor.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251232

SOURCE: Onyx Gold Corp.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Unigold Inc. (TSXV: UGD) (OTC Pink: UGDIF) (FSE: UGB1) ("Unigold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has completed a non-brokered private placement of 1,832,500 units of the Company (each, a "Unit") at a price of $0.08 per Unit for gross proceeds of $146,600 (the "Offering"). Each Unit will consist of one common share of the Company (a "Common Share") and one-half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole common share purchase warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.12 until four years following the date of issue.

No finders were paid in connection with this closing of the Offering. The proceeds from the Offering will be used to fund the Company's continued permitting and development on its Neita Sur Concession in the Dominican Republic, and for general working capital purposes. All securities issued under the Offering are subject to a four-month hold period. The Offering is subject to final acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange.

The securities offered have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements.

For further information please visit www.unigoldinc.com or contact:

Forward-looking Statements

Where applicable, we claim the protection of the safe harbour for forward- looking statements provided by the (United States) Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

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.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251217

SOURCE: Unigold Inc.
Castries, Saint Lucia, May 7th, 2025, FinanceWire

PrimeXBT, a regulated multi-asset broker, has significantly broadened its instrument lineup on MetaTrader 5 (MT5), adding over 100 new assets and trading pairs across all key markets.

This major update strengthens the brokers cross-asset range and provides traders with expanded access to global financial markets through an all-in-one trading experience.

The newly added instruments include 57 additional Forex pairs covering minors, crosses, and exotics, 8 new indices including CHINAH, GERMID50, and SA40, 9 new commodities like coffee and gasoil, and for the first time, 35 Crypto CFDs on MT5. Clients can now access a diverse range of assets, enabling them to create tailored strategies and manage risk with greater precision. All of these instruments are available to trade using either crypto or fiat funding methods.

According to PrimeXBT, the broker remains committed to setting a new standard for multi-asset trading by providing access to the most relevant opportunities across a wide spectrum of markets. The expansion of the MT5 offering supports this objective by integrating a broad set of instruments into a trusted, professional-grade trading environment.

With this update, PrimeXBT reinforces its role as a broker that evolves with market trends across both digital and traditional markets. With tight spreads, competitive fees, and high-speed execution, clients can access a broader range of instruments and pursue a variety of trading strategies from a single brokerage account.

To learn more, users can visit PrimeXBT website.

About PrimeXBT

PrimeXBT is a leading Crypto and CFD broker that offers an all-in-one trading platform to buy, sell, and store Cryptocurrencies, and trade over 100 popular markets, including Crypto Futures and CFDs on Crypto, Forex, Indices, and Commodities using both fiat and Crypto funds. Since its founding in 2018, PrimeXBT has grown exponentially, serving 1,000,000+ traders in 150+ countries worldwide. With an aim of making investing available to all, PrimeXBT lowers the barriers to entry, providing easy and secure access to the financial markets with industry-leading trading conditions and innovative tools. Clients engage with a regulated financial services provider recognized for its reliability and commitment to offering cost-efficient trading solutions.

Disclaimer: The content provided here is for informational purposes only and is not intended as personal investment advice and does not constitute a solicitation or invitation to engage in any financial transactions, investments, or related activities. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. The financial products offered by the Company are complex and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. These products may not be suitable for all investors. Before engaging, users should consider whether they understand how these leveraged products work and whether they can afford the high risk of losing their money. The Company does not accept clients from the Restricted Jurisdictions as indicated on its website. Some products and services, including MT5, may not be available in their jurisdiction. The applicable legal entity and its respective products and services depend on the clients country of residence and the entity with which the client has established a contractual relationship during registration.

Contact

PrimeXBT

[email protected]

Disclaimer: This is a paid press release and is distributed for general information only and is not intended to constitute investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.


The Indian army carried out strikes in the terror bases on Pakistan and POK two weeks after the attacks in Kashmirs Pahalgam. They called it Operation Sindoor read more

After the Hindi film actors and filmmakers, artists from the South Indian industry like Rajinikanth, Junior NTR, Allu Arjun have also saluted and lauded the Indian army for Operation Sindoor. Here are their tweets:

Praying for the safety & strength of our Indian Army in #OperationSindoor.



Jai Hind!   Jr NTR (@tarak9999) May 7, 2025

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

May justice be served . Jai Hind  #OperationSindoor pic.twitter.com/LUOdzZM8Z5  Allu Arjun (@alluarjun) May 7, 2025

The fighter's fight begins...



No stopping until the mission is accomplished!



The entire NATION is with you. @PMOIndia @HMOIndia#OperationSindoor



JAI HIND   Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) May 7, 2025

The Indian army carried out strikes in the terror bases on Pakistan and POK two weeks after the attacks in Kashmirs Pahalgam. They called it Operation Sindoor. Many Bollywood celebrities shared their reactions too.

Two weeks ago, on April 22, terrorists emerged from the pine tree forests of the Baisaran meadow in south Kashmirs Pahalgam and gunned down 26 people, shocking Indians and people across the world.

Following that dastardly terrorist attack that targeted mostly tourists, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had vowed that the perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack would be relentlessly pursued and the nation stands united in its resolve to ensure justice is delivered. India will identify, trace, and punish every terrorist and their backers. We will pursue them to the ends of the Earth.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Once declared dead by Pakistan, 26/11 mastermind Sajid Mir was suddenly found alive and arrested in 2022. His mention in the Operation Sindoor briefing sheds light on Pakistans duplicity in tackling terror and its attempts to dodge global scrutiny read more

Sajid Mir is widely known as the chief planner of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. Image/FBI

In the wake of Indias precision air strikes on nine terror-linked sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in the early hours of May 7, the re-emergence of Sajid Mir  a name long associated with global terror  has drawn sharp attention.

During the media briefing that followed the strikes  dubbed Operation Sindoor, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri highlighted Pakistans continuing duplicity in sheltering terrorists.

Central to his remarks was the extraordinary case of Sajid Mir, the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operative once declared dead, only to reappear under international pressure.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The strikes came as a direct retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam attack that killed 26 people.

Addressing the press, Misri highlighted Pakistans long track record of perpetrating cross-border terror in India and pointed to its international reputation as a haven for terrorists. He cited the case of Sajid Mir as a prime example of Pakistans habitual deception on terrorism.

The Sajid Mir case, in which this terrorist was declared dead and then, in response to international pressure, brought back to life, found alive and arrested, is the most glaring example, Misri said.

Indias foreign office used the opportunity to underline Islamabads continued failure to act meaningfully against high-profile terrorists despite repeated demands from international bodies like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

Who is Sajid Mir?

Sajid Mir, a Pakistani national born in either 1976 or 1978 in Lahore, is known globally as the chief architect of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks that killed over 170 people.

A senior Lashkar-e-Taiba figure, Mir was responsible for managing the terror groups international operations and was once described by Indian intelligence as the most dangerous man in Pakistan.

He first gained global infamy for recruiting David Coleman Headley, the American operative who conducted reconnaissance for the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.

According to the FBI, Mir even instructed Headley to change his name from Daood Gilani and suggested he open an immigration office in Mumbai to maintain his cover.

After the attacks, Mir was indicted in the United States in 2011. He was added to the US Treasury Departments Specially Designated Nationals list in 2012 and remains on the FBIs Most Wanted list with a $5 million bounty on his head.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation, USA

The US also sought his designation as a global terrorist at the United Nations, but the proposal was blocked by China in 2023.

Despite his notoriety, Pakistan long claimed that Mir did not exist  then later alleged he was dead.

However, French magistrate Jean-Louis Bruguiere confirmed Mirs existence and military ties in 2009, stating he was a regular officer in the Pakistan Army.

In 2012, Indian national Sayed Zabiuddin Ansari, handler of the 26/11 attackers, revealed during interrogation that Mir had even visited Mumbai in 2005 under a fake identity and passport and created a miniature model of the Taj Mahal Hotel to prepare the terrorists.

How Mir was brought back from the dead by Pakistan

Pakistans denial of Mirs presence persisted until mounting international scrutiny and pressure from FATF forced a change.

In 2022, in a dramatic U-turn, Pakistan arrested Mir and convicted him in a Lahore anti-terrorism court for terror financing. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison and fined PKR 420,000.

Pakistan reported this arrest to the FATF, hoping to strengthen its case for removal from the grey list. As Misri noted, this case became emblematic of how Pakistan wilfully misleads the world and international forums to avoid meaningful accountability.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Even after his conviction, the controversy around Sajid Mir did not die down. In 2023, reports emerged that Mir had been hospitalised and placed on a ventilator, allegedly due to poisoning in jail.

This incident triggered speculation that the Pakistani state might be staging another cover-up or using health issues as a ploy to sidestep international pressure.

Willie Brigitte, a convicted French terrorist and former associate of Mir, has gone on record to confirm that Mir operated freely in Pakistan and enjoyed protection from the army.

He also testified that Mir orchestrated a failed terror plot in Australia in 2003, for which Brigitte was later sentenced in France.

Also Watch:

With inputs from agencies
Centuries-old tradition the Papal Conclave is set to take place today to elect the next Pope following the death of Pope Francis on April 22. In India, mock drills will take place across states and union territories, as tensions with Pakistan continue to rise following the Pahalgam terror attack. Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to visit Russia from today read more

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle takes part in procession carrying the body of Pope Francis to St Peter's Basilica at the Vatican. File image/AP

It is set to be a busy Wednesday with several events lined up for the day.

Firstly, a Papal conclave is set to take place today in the Vatican City to elect the next Pope. Meanwhile, mock drills have been announced in all states and Union territories in response to complex threats in the wake of heightened tensions with Pakistan.

Chinas President Xi Jinping is set to visit Russia from today and during which he will hold talks with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. Germanys incoming Chancellor Friedrich Merz may visit Paris today.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Paris Saint-Germain is set to clash with Arsenal today in the semi-final match of UEFA Champions League.

Here is all that is set to take place across the world today.

Papal conclave to elect new Pope

The papal conclave to elect the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church will commence today. This conclave is notable for its unprecedented diversity, with 133 cardinal electors from 71 countries, reflecting Pope Franciss efforts to globalise the Churchs leadership.

In an event of significant spiritual, political and global import, cardinals representing diverse regions of the world will gather to select the Pope, who will lead the worlds 1.4 billion Catholics. This process is necessitated by the passing of Francis on April 21st at the age of 88, following a 12-year tenure as Pope.

Mock drills across states and UTs in India

The Union Home Ministry has directed all states and UTs to carry out mock drills today (May 7) in response to new and complex threats that have surfaced, particularly in the wake of heightened tensions with Pakistan after the recent terror attack in Pahalgam.

NDRF, SDRF and Fire Brigade personnel take part in a mock drill, organised by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in Dehradun, on April 24, 2025. File image/PTI

A Home Ministry communication states that the drills will focus on key preparedness measures, including activating air raid sirens and training civilians in essential civil defense techniques. The objective is to provide them with the knowledge for self-protection during emergencies like aerial attacks or other hostile events.

Xi Jinping to visit Russia

Chinas President Xi Jinping will be on an official three-day visit to Russia from today. he is expected to hold talks with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin and even participate in the Victory Day celebrations, stated Kremlin. The two leaders would sign several bilateral inter-governmental and inter-departmental documents during Xis visit at the personal invitation of President Putin, it added.

During the talks, the main issues of further development of relations of comprehensive partnership and strategic interaction, as well as current issues of the international and regional agenda will be discussed, it said.

Germanys Friedrich Merz may visit Paris

Leader of the Christian Democratic Union in Germany Friedrich Merz may visit Paris today for strategic discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron. Merz said on Sunday (May 4) that he would hold talks immediately with Macron as well as with Polands Donald Tusk in an interview with the German daily Bild.

Friedrich Merz reacts after he fell short of votes need to be chancellor in first round vote at the parliament Bundestag in Berlin. AP

I will immediately travel to Paris and very quickly travel to Warsaw," he said. French officials are hoping for a reset with Germany under Merz. With uncertainties surrounding US commitments to Nato and Europes defence, Merz and Macron aim to explore avenues for strengthening European security architecture, including discussions on shared nuclear deterrence involving France and the United Kingdom.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Paris SG against Arsenal in UEFA Champions League

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Arsenal are set to clash in the decisive second leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final today at the Parc des Princes in Paris. PSG holds a slender 1-0 advantage from the first leg, courtesy of an early goal by Ousmane Dembele at the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal faces a formidable challenge, needing to overturn the deficit against a PSG side that has already secured the Ligue 1 title. The Gunners recent form has been inconsistent, including a surprising Premier League defeat to Bournemouth.

With inputs from agencies
Flight services at several Indian airports, particularly those near the India-Pakistan border and key Air Force bases, were disrupted, and schools in the region were shut after India launched a strike on nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor. The Pakistani Army also carried out heavy mortar shelling along the LoC in Poonch and Rajouri, killing at least 10 civilians and injuring 26 others read more

Early on Wednesday, India carried out a strike on nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir in response to the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam.

The operation, named  Operation Sindoor, targeted specific terror bases in Pakistan and PoK, which were reportedly used to plan attacks against India.

Catch all the live updates from here

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called Indias missile strikes on the terror camps an act of war and warned of a strong response.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

With tensions rising, several flights between key cities near the border have been affected due to airspace limits.

ALSO READ | From Bahawalpur to Mudrike: What are the 9 sites India struck in Pakistan, PoK?

At least 10 civilians were killed, and 26 others injured in heavy mortar shelling by the Pakistan Army along the Line of Control.

Heres how Operation Sindoor is affecting people in India and what you need to know about it.

Flight operations disrupted, Indian airspace under close watch

Flight services at several Indian airports, especially those near the India-Pakistan border and key Indian Air Force bases, have been affected due to the current situation and resulting changes in airspace rules.

Some airports in north India have also been closed to civilian flights. As a result, Indian airlines cancelled several flights to and from these locations through most of Wednesday.

Airlines also warned that the impact may spread across their network, affecting flight schedules in other parts of the country. They have also asked passengers to check their flight status before travelling and to plan accordingly.

According to Flightradar24, which monitors global air traffic, there was no flight movement early this morning over Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh.

Flight operations were also affected at Delhis Indira Gandhi International Airport. Passengers were asked to check with airlines before travelling to the airport.

Indian security force personnel stand guard in Pulwama district, on May 7. Reuters

Air India announced cancellations for flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot until noon. The airline also diverted two international flights headed for Amritsar.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In view of the prevailing situation, Air India has cancelled all its flights to and from the following stations  Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh and Rajkot  till 12 noon on 7 May, pending further updates from authorities. Two international flights en route to Amritsar are being diverted to Delhi, it said in a post.

IndiGo said its services to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, and Bikaner have been disrupted due to the airspace conditions.

SpiceJet said flight arrivals and departures were likely to be affected by the shutdown of airports in Dharamshala, Leh, Jammu, Srinagar, and Amritsar.

Akasa Air has also cancelled all flights to Srinagar, saying the airport there has been shut for civilian use.

Government sources told India Today that the Indian airspace is being closely tracked. This is a national emergency; the safety of passengers is paramount. DGCA is monitoring the situation, a source told the publication.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

ALSO READ | What are loitering munitions India used for Operation Sindoor in Pakistan and PoK?

10 civilians killed along LoC

At least 10 civilians were killed, and 26 others injured in heavy mortar shelling by the Pakistan Army along the Line of Control, as the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor.

The shelling targeted forward villages along the LoC in Poonch and Rajouri.

In response, the Indian Army retaliated, launching counterattacks against the Pakistani forces.

People walk past closed shops in Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir, after heavy firing and shelling by Pakistan military overnight. PTI

Following the shelling, Union Home Minister Amit Shah directed officials to move residents near the LoC to safer places in Bakars, according to India Today.

Schools shut in border states

Tensions along the border have led to the closure of schools and colleges in several districts across Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan.

In Kashmir, schools are shut in Kupwara, Baramulla, and Gurez. In Jammu, they are closed in Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri, and Poonch. In Punjab, Ferozepur, Pathankot, and Amritsar districts have shut educational institutions, India Today reported.

The University of Kashmir has also postponed all exams scheduled for May 7, 2025.

In Rajasthan, a PTI report said that government and private schools have been shut in Ganganagar, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, and Barmer as a precaution. All these districts lie close to the India-Pakistan border, which remains on high alert.

Mumbai Airport gets bomb threat call

Authorities at Mumbais Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport were put on high alert after a bomb threat was made regarding an IndiGo flight arriving from Chandigarh.

The threat was received via a phone call to the airports hotline, claiming that a bomb would be detonated on the aircraft.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Though nothing suspicious has been found on board, the police are continuing to investigate the source and authenticity of the threat.

Operation Sindoor

The Indian Army confirmed that the focus of the operation was on terror bases responsible for attacks on India, including the recent Pahalgam assault.

The army said the strikes were carried out in a careful and controlled way. They did not target any Pakistani military sites to avoid an escalation.

#WATCH | Delhi | #OperationSindoor| Col. Sofiya Qureshi, while addressing the media, presents videos showing multiple hits on the Mundrike and other terrorist camps in Pakistan and PoJK. pic.twitter.com/Ih21EklEe5  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

The operation took place exactly two weeks after the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had held several meetings following the Pahalgam incident, was closely monitoring the operation throughout the night. He had earlier promised to identify, track, and punish those behind the attack and their supporters.

Soon after the strikes, the Indian Army shared an image online with the words: Operation Sindoor and the hashtag #PahalgamTerrorAttack, along with the message: Justice is Served. Jai Hind!

With inputs from agencies
One of the most important incidents of World War I took place on May 7, 1915, when the British ocean liner, RMS Lusitania, was hit by a German submarine. It killed nearly 1,200 people, of whom 128 were Americans. On this day in 1945, Germany unconditionally surrendered all German forces to the Allies at Reims, northern France, leading to the war officially coming to an end read more

The sinking of the British ocean liner RMS Lusitania is considered to be a turning point in World War I. It was after this incident on May 7, 1915, that the United States, which had maintained neutrality in the war, decided to enter it.

If you are a history geek who loves to learn about important events from the past, Firstpost Explainers ongoing series, History Today will be your one-stop destination to explore key events.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

On this day in 1945, Germany signed the unconditional surrender of all German forces to the Allies at Reims, northern France.

Here are some important events that took place on this day across the world.

German submarine sinks British RMS Lusitania

May 7, 1915, is an important day in history as one of the turning points in World War I occurred on this day. The British ship RMS Lusitania sank after being hit by a torpedo fired by a German submarine.

The German embassy had issued warnings of attack on ships sailing to Britain in the morning papers on May 7. But, many assumed that a civilian vessel like the Lusitania would be spared. Thus, the fastest and most luxurious passenger ship of its time set sail for Liverpool from New York City on this day carrying nearly 2,000 people.

The U Boat 139 which sank the Lusitania in an unknown location. File image/AP

However, in the afternoon the ship entered a known war zone off the coast of Ireland. German submarine U-20, commanded by Kapitanleutnant Walther Schwieger, fired a single torpedo that struck the Lusitania on the starboard side. A second, more powerful explosion followed, likely caused by munitions hidden in the cargo hold, causing the ship to sink within 18 minutes. The attack killed 1,198 passengers and crew members of which 128 were Americans.

The rapid sinking of the ship severely curtailed evacuation possibilities. Although lifeboats were deployed as a means of escape, a significant portion of them either overturned upon deployment or were rendered unusable by the vessels steep list. The resulting high death toll among civilians, particularly women and children, triggered widespread international outrage, with the United States expressing particular condemnation.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Despite maintaining neutrality for an additional two years, the sinking of the Lusitania dramatically altered public sentiment in the United States, turning it sharply against Germany and is widely regarded as a significant factor leading to Americas eventual involvement in the war in 1917.

Germany surrenders unconditionally to the Allies at Reims

It was on this day in 1945 that the German High Command General Alfred Jodl signed the unconditional surrender of all German forces at the Allied headquarters in Reims, Northern France. This brought World War II to an end after nearly six years of devastating conflict.

Initially, General Jodl sought to restrict the terms of German surrender to only those forces actively engaged against the Western Allies. However, General Dwight Eisenhower insisted upon the unconditional surrender of all German forces, encompassing those fighting on both the Eastern and Western fronts. Eisenhower made it extremely clear that if this demand was not met, the Western Front would be sealed, preventing German soldiers from seeking surrender in the West and leaving them to face the advancing Soviet forces.

General Alfred Jodl signs the surrender of all German forces in Rheims, France. He is flanked by Wilhelm Oxenius (left) of the Luftwaffe and Hans-Georg von Friedeburg, representing Germanys navy. File image/AP

Consequently, with Russian General Ivan Susloparov and French General Francois Sevez acting as witnesses and Eisenhowers Chief of Staff General Walter Bedell Smith signing on behalf of the Allied Expeditionary Force, Germany was officially defeated. Although hostilities would persist on the Eastern front for nearly another day, the war in the West had concluded.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

While the Reims ceremony marked the end of the war for Western Allies, Soviet leader Joseph Stalin demanded a second signing in Berlin to underscore the Soviet Unions key role in the victory. On May 8, a second surrender was signed in Berlin by German representatives before Soviet Marshal Georgy Zhukov.

The surrender at Reims signalled the collapse of the Third Reich and brought immense relief across the globe.

This Day, That Year

Sony Corporation was founded by Ibuka Masaru and Morita Akio on this day in 1946.

On this day in 1861, Rabindranath Tagore was born in Kolkata.

The Theatre Royal opened in London in 1663.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, following Operation Sindoor, lauded Indias moral clarity in combat and said that the country drew from Lord Hanumans ideals and only struck those who killed our innocents. India struck nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack read more

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh likened the attack in Pakistan to the one Lord Hanuman conducted on Ashok Vatika, while looking for Sita, who was abducted and imprisoned by Raavan. File image/PTI

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday lauded the Indian armed forces for Operation Sindoor and emphasised Indias moral clarity during combat, saying that the country drew from Lord Hanumans ideals and only struck those who killed our innocents.

Last night, the Indian Armed Forces displayed their valour and courage, writing a new chapter in history, said the defence minister.



The Indian Army carried out the operation with precision, alertness, and sensitivity. The targets we had set were destroyed exactly as per the plan. The Army showed great care to ensure that no civilian areas or populations were affected. In short, the Army demonstrated accuracy, vigilance, and humanity.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In the wee hours of May 7, Indias armed forces launched a targeted operation, striking terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack.

Catch up on all the live updates from here

Like Lord Hanuman destroyed Ashok Vatika

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh likened the attack to the one Lord Hanuman conducted on Ashok Vatika, while looking for Sita, who was abducted and imprisoned by Raavan.

Quoting from the Ramcharitmanas, Singh said, Mitron, humne Hanuman ji ke adarsh ka paalan kiya hai. Unhone jo Ashok Vatika ujaadte samay kiya tha  jinh mohi maara tinh main maare. Humne keval unhi ko maara jinhone humare masoomon ko maara (Friends, we have followed the ideals of Lord Hanuman. Just as he said during the destruction of Ashok Vatika  I only struck those who attacked me  we too have targeted only those who harmed our innocent people)."

Operation Sindoor: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh likened the attack to the one Lord Hanuman conducted on Ashok Vatika, while looking for Sita, who was abducted and imprisoned by Raavan. Image courtesy: Pintrest

Speaking at an event held to mark the inauguration of 50 infrastructure projects of the Border Security Force (BSF), Singh also lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his unconditional support to the armed forces following the brutal killings in South Kashmirs Pahalgam on April 22.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, our forces launched Operation Sindoor and, like before, dealt a strong blow by destroying the camps where terrorists were being trained. India has exercised its Right to Respond to the attack on its own soil. This operation was carried out with full consideration and careful planning. The action was deliberately limited to terrorist camps and their infrastructure to crush their morale, he said.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Why Indias Operation Sindoor was one of a kind

Operation Sindoor marked a significant shift in Indias military strategy, both in scale and scope.

Unlike earlier missions such as the 2016 Uri surgical strikes or the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, which were more contained in nature, Operation Sindoor was technologically advanced, broader in reach, and executed with a new kind of strategic depth.

In 2019, India had targeted a single Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Pakistans Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. But this time, the forces hit nine separate terror hubsspread across both Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The strikes covered a wide arc of locations including Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Bahawalpur, Rawalakot, Chakswari, Bhimber, Neelum Valley, Jhelum, and Chakwal.

In this screenshot from @MEAIndia via Youtube on May 7, 2025, a map showing the terrorist camps struck as part of Operation Sindoor in Pakistan and PoK, being displayed during a press conference, in New Delhi. PTI

As security analyst Aadil Mir told ANI, India has crossed two significant thresholds striking multiple sites and targeting Pakistans heartland. This goes far beyond 2019.

Another major departure from earlier operations was the involvement of all three armed forcesthe Army, Navy, and Air Forceworking together in sync.

The mission also showcased Indias high-tech arsenal. SCALP (Storm Shadow) missiles, with a range of over 250 kilometres, were deployed, alongside Hammer precision bombs and loitering munitions, offering deep-strike capabilities and pin-point accuracy.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

According to a report in The Indian Express, another striking element was the philosophy behind the operations name. Instead of focusing on military might, the mission was named to honour the victims of the Pahalgam terror attackwhere 26 civilians, mostly tourists and families, were killed.

Sources said Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally chose the name Operation Sindoor, as a tribute to the women who lost their husbands in the attackreferencing the traditional red sindoor worn by married Hindu women.

In the past, Indias military operations against Pakistan had names like Operation Vijay, Operation Trident, Operation Safed Sagar, and Operation Bandar.

With input from agencies
While 'Andor' has been hailed by critics as a very political series, its main star, Diego Luna, usually stays out of the world of the real-life politics of the U.S. However, the Mexican actor made an exception during the Academy's 2025 Scientific and Technical Awards last night.

As the host of the awards ceremony, which serves to recognize inventions that allow for improved film production, Luna joked that his "fee was higher than normal this year," as President Donald Trump's tariffs on foreign imports have become a contentious part of his administration.

"It is my privilege to host this year's Scientific and Technical Achievement Awards," the 'Andor' star began. "But, first, I need to apologize because I know my fee is higher than normal this year. I'm very expensive, I know. It's not my fault. Everything coming in from Mexico is more expensive because of the new tariffs."

Luna's comments come in the wake of President Trump's decision to impose a 25% tariff on the majority of Mexican and Canadian products. The U.S.'s North American neighbors weren't the only ones hit, as China's products were hit with a tariff of 125%. However, this isn't the first time that the 'Narcos: Mexico' star has gotten himself into politics.

He has long been a staunch activist for immigrants coming to the U.S. and has made his views on Mexican politics very clear, as while he had voted for Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, he had criticized many of his policies.

This also isn't the first time that the Star Wars superstar has criticized President Trump, as he went on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live' earlier this month to say that he doesn't take Trump's name change of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America seriously, calling it "ridiculous."

While talking to Kimmel, he also criticized Trump's immigration policies, stating that he was "worried and sad not just for the Mexican community here but the Latino community and the fear for deportation and family separation. It's just too sad to see what's happening."

Luna and his friend and collaborator Gael Garcia Bernal also participated in the last Golden Globes speaking manily in Spanish and has been an allied of Latinos in general and migrants in particular for decades.

Originally published on Latin Times
Twenty-five minutes. Thats all it took for India to strike terror into the hearts of terrorist groups  the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)  as it carried out coordinated, precision strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor. Among the 21 different locations hit was the terror camp where 26/11 terrorist Ajmal Kasab and David Headley received training read more

A person snaps a photo of a building fallen after it was hit by an Indian strike in Muzaffarabad. Reuters

Justice is Served.

On Wednesday morning (May 7), India carried out a massive counter-terrorism offensive, dubbed Operation Sindoor, across nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This strike at 1.44 am was in response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 people, mostly tourists.

Hours later, India held a press briefing to explain how the Indian Armed Forces  the Army, Navy and Air Force  carried out coordinated strikes for 25 minutes against 21 terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Catch up on all the live updates from here

They also explained why they chose these 21 sites for the strikes. Heres a detailed explainer on the significance of these sites and their roles in peddling terrorism into India.

Sites chosen based on credible intel

In a press briefing hours after Operation Sindoor, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that the action was based on credible intel and aimed to break the backbone of terrorism.

Flanked by Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, Misri said the precision attacks, jointly executed by the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force, targeted 21 terror camps across nine locations in Pakistan and PoK. The entire operation was completed in a span of just 25 minutes  from 1.05 am to 1.30 am.

Of the nine locations, four were located in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

In an official statement, the Ministry of Defence said: Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution.

Markaz Taiba  Muridke

One of the camps hit by India under Operation Sindoor was Markaz Taiba, located in Nangal Sahdan, Muridke. This is the principal training facility of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and was established in 2000. Intelligence agencies reveal that Markaz Taiba is considered the alma mater of the LeT.

Some news reports state that the site was partially funded by 9/11 mastermind Osama bin Laden and today includes mosques and training centres.

The camp is also where all 26/11 Mumbai terror attack perpetrators, including Ajmal Kasab and David Headley were imparted Daura-e-Ribbaf (intelligence training) at this facility. Moreover, Headley and Tahawwur Hussain Rana, the prime conspirators of 26/11 Mumbai attacks, had visited Muridke on instructions of Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

A visual of a terrorist camp in Pakistan which was struck as part of Operation Sindoor, being displayed during a press conference, in New Delhi. PTI

Markaz Subhan Allah  Bahawalpur

Located at NH-5 (Karachi-Torkham Highway) on the outskirts of Bahawalpur at Karachi Mor, this the main centre of the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) for the training and indoctrination of youth. It is spread over a 15-acre area.

The terror camp has been linked to the 2019 Pulwama attack. It is from this location that the perpetrators of the Pulwama were trained.

Moreover, the Bahawalpur camp also houses senior JeM leaders including Maulana Masood Azhar, Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar, and Maulana Ammar.

Sarjal/Tehra Kalan facility  Narowal

Tehra Kalan or Sarjal facility is the main launching site of the JeM for infiltration of terrorists into Jammu and kashmir. It is located in the Shakargarh Tehsil of Narowal District in Punjab, Pakistan.

Located just six kilometres away from the International Border in Samba, its also used for digging cross-border tunnels and launching drones to smuggle arms and narcotics into Indian territory.

At the press briefing today, the officials said that that the terrorists, who shot dead four soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir in March 2025, were trained here.

Visual of the Sarjal terror camp being destroyed during Operation Sindoor. PTI

Mehmoona Joya facility  Sialkot

A stronghold of Hizbul Mujahideen, this location served as the training camp for terrorists involved in the Pathankot airbase attack of 2016.

The facility is overseen by Hizbul commander Mohd Irfan Khan alias Irfan Tanda, and regularly hosts 2025 active terrorists. For those who dont know, Tanda has been involved in carrying out several attacks in the Jammu region. He is allegedly responsible for carrying out the blasts on January 26, 1995 in the Maulana Azad Stadium of Jammu that left eight persons dead and 50 injured.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Sawai Nala  Muzaffarabad

This terror camp, also known as Bait-ul-Mujahideen, is one of the LeTs most important ones for training and recruitment. Functional since early 2000, it is situated near the Chelabandi bridge on Muzaffarabad-Neelum Road, Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Intel reveals that LeT head Hafiz Saeed used to welcome new inductees to this camp on their arrival.

Syedna Bilal  Muzaffarabad

A key JeM camp, it is located opposite the Red Fort in Muzaffarabad, in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. It is reported that around 50-100 cadres reside in this facility and are often trained by Pakistani Special Forces, SSG.

The facility is run by Mufti Asghar Khan Kashmiri, with Indian fugitive Aashiq Nengroo also operating from here.

The Mehmoona Joya teror camp which was struck as part of Operation Sindoor, being displayed during a press conference, in New Delhi. PTI

Gulpur  Kotli

Situated 30 km from the LoC, this is a base and control centre of the Lashkar-e-Taiba. It was used for the revival of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. It served as a training centre for terrorists involved in the April 20, 2023 attack in Poonch and June 9, 2024 attack on pilgrims.

OPERATION SINDOOR#JusticeServed



Target 2  Gulpur Terrorist Camp at Kotli.

Distance  30 Km from Line of Control (POJK).

Control Center and Base of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)

Used for revival of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.



DESTROYED AT 1.08 AM on 07 May 2025. pic.twitter.com/JyYlZEAKgU  ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) May 7, 2025

Markaz Abbas  Kotli

Located close to the Kotli Military Camp, Markaz Abbas is an important training facility for the JeM. It can accommodate 100125 cadres and plays a pivotal role in planning infiltration and terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir.

Maskar Raheel Shahid  Kotli

Maskar Raheel Shahid is one of the oldest facilities of Hizbul Mujahideen (HM). A secluded facility, it is accessible only via a kachcha track. This camp offers specialised sniper, BAT (Border Action Team), and survival training for operations in hilly terrain.

Markaz Ahle Hadith Barnala  Bhimber

Specialising in weapons handling, explosives and jungle survival training centre, this LeT camp is also used for infiltrating terrorists and smuggling arms into the Poonch-Rajouri-Reasi sector. Able to accommodate 100-150 terrorists, it is operated by LeT leaders including Qasim Gujjar, Qasim Khanda, and Anas Jarar.

Besides these camps, India also identified the other locations where it struck under Operation Sindor. These were Maskar-e-Aqsa, Chelabandi, Dulai, Garhi Habibullah, Batrasi, Balakot, Ogi, Boi, Sensa, Barali and Dungi.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

With inputs from agencies
In the early hours of Wednesday, India carried out Operation Sindoor to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack. It struck nine targets, all terror bases, in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. What were they? read more

A damaged portion of a building is seen after it was hit by an Indian strike in Muzaffarabad in PoK. The city is a hub of terror activities. Reuters

Operation Sindoor. These are the words that are reverberating across India. The military strikes were a much-awaited response to the dastardly Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26, mostly tourists.

On Wednesday, at 1.44 am, Indias three forces  the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force  conducted precision strikes on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This tri-service operation is the first since 1971.

So, what did India target in Pakistan and why? We explain.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

How and why India hit nine sites in Pakistan, PoK

India has hit nine sites targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in the early hours of Wednesday.

A little while ago, the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed, the Defence Ministry said in a statement soon after the strike.

Altogether nine sites have been attacked, it added.

According to the ministry, no Pakistani military facilities were hit. Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution, the statement said.

A city view during the blackout, after Indias strikes in Muzaffarabad, in PoK, on May 7. Reuters

The strikes were in response to the Pahalgam terrorist attack on 22 April, in which 25 Indians, mostly tourists and a Nepali citizen were killed. We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable, the Defence Ministry said.

Indias missiles struck terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK. Precision strike-capable weapon systems of the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force were used. This included the loitering munitions, reports the news agency ANI.

The coordinates for the attacks on terrorist camps were provided by intelligence agencies. The strikes were carried out from Indian soil, the report says.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

How Indias nine targets were selected

During Operation Sindoor, India chose its targets after deliberation. Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba has been linked to the Pahalgam attack. Indias retaliatory strike was planned to dismantle infrastructure used by the LeT, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Hizbul Mujahideen, and other affiliated terrorist networks.

Each of the nine targets hit during Operation Sindoor has been linked to terror plots and infiltration attempts targeting India. These sites were zeroed in on after assessing their significance and the role they played in cross-border terrorism.

Sources told CNN-News18 said that the strikes were aimed specifically at crippling the leadership structures of JeM and LeT, operating from Pakistan. The terror headquarters of Jaish and Lashkar were successfully hit. The impact is far greater than previous Indian responses," a senior official said.

What were the nine sites India targeted in Operation Sindoor?

Muridke: Among the targets struck by India were LeTs headquarters in Muridke in Pakistans Punjab and terrorist and Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhars madrassa. Azhar has been linked to the Pahalgam attack and has masterminded the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack.

Muridke is known as the terror nursery of Pakistan. Markaz Taiba, the main training camp of LeT was targeted. It not only provides arms training but also religious indoctrination for recruits.

The sprawling headquarters of LeT and its affiliate Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) are spread across 200 acres in Muridke. It reportedly houses terror camps and other related infrastructure, often used against India and has been functional since 1990.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The construction of this facility was financed by Osama bin Laden. It is where 26/11 attackers, including Ajmal Kasab, received training, reports Hindustan Times.

The city of Muridke is 30 kilometres from Lahore and is a major commercial hub of Pakistan.

Indian security force personnel stand guard in Wuyan in Pulwama district, on May 7 after Operation Sindoor. Reuters

Bahawalpur: Another city in Pakistans Punjab, Bahawalpur is synonymous with the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), the terror organisation led by Masood Azhar.

The JeM has plotted and claimed responsibility for several terror attacks in India, including the 2001 Parliament strike, the 2016 attack on Pathankot airbase, and the 2019 Pulwama suicide bombing, where a convoy of vehicles carrying CRPF personnel was attacked, leading to 40 deaths.

The JeM which was created in 2000 and is linked to Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence first started operations from training camps in Afghanistan. After the fall of the Taliban, it relocated to Balakot and then to Peshawar and Muzaffarabad, reports Tribune India.

In 2009, JeM established its headquarters in Bahawalpur. It spreads over 18 acres and houses a mosque, a madrassa and a walled complex, where cadres are recruited and trained.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Bahawalpur was once a hub where cadres fighting in Afghanistan during the US presence would throng to recuperate. It also houses bases of other terror groups like the LeT, which has a close association with the JeM.

The city, which is 130 kilometres from the Indo-Pak border, is a key military centre for the Pakistan Army, where the 31 Corps is headquartered. It is responsible for defence operations in Pakistans southern Punjab and northern Sindh areas, reports Tribune.

While India has not targeted any military posts, the JEM camp was hit during Operation Sindoor.

People gather next to a damaged portion of a building after it was hit by an Indian strike in Muzaffarabad. Reuters

Muzaffarabad: It is the largest city in PoK and serves as its administrative capital. Several explosions were heard in the areas close to the mountains around the city on Wednesday. The city lost power after the attack.

Muzaffarabad serves as a major hub for infiltration into J&K. It houses terror camps, logistical centres and staging grounds for cross-border attacks, according to intelligence agencies.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The Syedna Bilal camp in Muzaffarabad was among the targets hit by Indias missile strikes. It is reportedly linked to the JeM.

Kotli: Kotli is a city along the Poonch River in PoK. It serves as a major training ground for suicide bombers and insurgents. The facility houses at least 50 cadres at a time, reports NDTV.

Markaz Abbas and Maskar Raheel Shahid facilities were hit during Operation Sindoor. The first is the JeM facility, while the latter is linked to Hizbul Mujahideen.

Gulpur: Gulpur is 35 km from the LoC in the Poonch-Rajouri belt.

Gulpur provides support to the terror ecosystem thriving in Pakistan. It was used in 2023 and 2024 to launch terror operations in Jammu and Kashmirs Rajouri and Poonch. According to intel inputs, it played a role in the ambush on Indian soldiers in Poonch in April 2023 and the attack on a bus carrying Hindu pilgrims the next year.

The site was used as a staging area by terrorists who attacked Indian security convoys and civilian targets in the region.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Mehmoona in Sialkot: Another target was the Mehmoona Joya in Sialkot. It houses the camps and training centres of the banned terror group Hizbul Mujahideen.

The outfit has seen its powers wane in recent years. However, terrorists continued to be trained to be sent across the border, especially in areas like Mehmoona, where they continue to receive support from locals.

The Mehmoona Joya facility is headed by Mohammad Irfan Khan, also known as Irfan Tanda. He has been linked to multiple attacks in the Jammu region, reports Hindustan Times.

Barnala: The Markaz Ahle Hadith on the outskirts of Barnala was targeted. It is a LeT facility that has been used for infiltration of operatives and weapons into the PoonchRajouriReasi sector, reports Hindustan Times.

It can accommodate 100 to 150 cadres and has been the hub for LeT operatives like Qasim Gujjar, Qasim Khanda, and Anas Jarar.

Sawai: Indian missiles hit the Sawai camp in the Tangdhar sector. It serves as a hub for the LeT and has provided support for terror attacks in Sonmarg and Gulmarg in October last year. It has also been linked to the Pahalgam strike.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Sarjal: Sarjal is a JeM facility located in the Shakargarh tehsil of Narowal district in Pakistans Punjab. It is situated six kilometres from the international border near the Samba sector in J&K.

It is used for smuggling arms and narcotics and also operating drones, reports Hindustan Times.

With inputs from agencies
Following Indias Operation Sindoor, the official press briefing was led by two senior women officers, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh. It was a powerful and symbolic statement after the airstrikes were named to honour the widows of the Pahalgam terror attack. Heres what we know about the Indian personnel now grabbing headlines read more

Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi held the official press briefing following Operation Sindoor. Image courtesy: News18, AP

In a defining moment following Indias precision strikes under Operation Sindoor, the official press briefing was led by two senior women officersColonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh.

The two decorated officers stood before the nation to outline the details and intent behind the pre-dawn strikes, which were carried out in coordination by the tri-services - the Army, the Navy and the Indian Air Force (IAF). The fired missiles targeted multiple terror hubs in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Catch all the live updates from here

The high-level briefing on Operation Sindoor by women officers was a powerful statement in itself. It not only reflected Indias commitment to ending terrorism but also honoured the widows of those who lost their lives.

Sindoor, or vermillion, is a mark of married Hindu women and a reference to the Pahalgam massacre in which men, including those newly married, were singled out on the basis of their religion and shot dead by terrorists.

So, who are these two decorated women officers who led the briefing? And what did they say? Heres everything we know so far.

Who Are Col. Sofiya Qureshi and Wg Cdr. Vyomika Singh?

Col. Sofiya Qureshi

Lieutenant Colonel Sofiya Qureshi is an officer from the Corps of Signals in the Indian Army with years of experience in peacekeeping roles.

In 2016, she became the first woman officer to lead an Indian Army contingent at a multinational field training exercise, which included ASEAN Plus countries. At the time, it was the largest Ground Forces Exercise ever conducted on Indian soil and was based on the themes Humanitarian Mine Action and Peacekeeping Operations.

Chosen from among several experienced peacekeeping trainers, Lt Col Qureshi had been associated with peacekeeping duties since 2010. But her experience goes even further back when she served in the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Congo in 2006 as a military observer.

Explaining the role of such missions, she told Indian Express, On these missions, we monitor the ceasefires in those countries and also aid in the humanitarian activities. The job is to ensure peace in the conflict affected areas.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Lt Col Qureshi is from Gujarat and comes from a family with a military backgroundboth her grandfather and father served in the Army.

Commissioned through the Officers Training Academy in 1999, she has been posted across various regions in India, including counter-insurgency areas, in signal regiments. In addition to her military achievements, she holds a postgraduate degree in biochemistry.

When asked what drew her to the Army, she said, Its the same charm what draws the men, the love for the nation and honour and pride in donning the uniform.

Wg Cdr. Vyomika Singh

Wing Commander Vyomika Singh is a helicopter pilot in the Indian Air Force with over 2,500 hours of flying experience.

Her childhood dream to join the armed forces began with the National Cadet Corps (NCC). After completing her engineering studies, she went on to become the first in her family to join the military.

She was commissioned into the Indian Air Force on December 18, 2019, following which she received a permanent commission in the flying branch.

Over the years, she has flown helicopters like the Chetak and Cheetah in high-altitude and difficult regions such as Jammu and Kashmir and the Northeast.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Wing Commander Singh has also been involved in several rescue missions. In November 2020, she led a high-risk evacuation operation in Arunachal Pradesh, flying through extreme weather and remote terrain to rescue civilians.

In 2021, she took part in a tri-services all-women mountaineering expedition to Mt Manirang, which stands at 21,650 feet. The teams effort and endurance were recognised by senior defence officials, including the Chief of Air Staff.

What was revealed in the official briefing?

Lieutenant Colonel Qureshi and Wing Commander Singh appeared alongside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri at the official media briefing to share key details of Operation Sindoor.

Wing Commander Singh spoke about the purpose and planning behind the strikes. Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed. The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives, she said.

#WATCH |Delhi | #OperationSindoor| Wing Commander Vyomika Singh says, "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... pic.twitter.com/Gmw6WHrYVO  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Colonel Qureshi presented video footage showing successful strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The videos, captured through onboard targeting systems and surveillance drones, confirmed direct hits on several key terrorist facilities. These included camps linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM).

#WATCH | Delhi | #OperationSindoor| Col. Sofiya Qureshi, while addressing the media, presents videos showing multiple hits on the Mundrike and other terrorist camps in Pakistan and PoJK. pic.twitter.com/Ih21EklEe5  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

The Indian Army targeted locations in Bahawalpur, Muridke, Tehra Kalan, Sialkot, Bhimber, Kotli, and Muzaffarabadareas that have long been known to harbour training camps and operational bases of groups like LeT, JeM, and Hizbul Mujahideen.

This camp was a training centre for terrorists involved in the Mumbai 2008 attacks, including Ajmal Kasab and David Headley, the Army officers said, adding that India was ready to deal with any misadventure by Pakistan.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the missile strikes, calling the attack an act of war. Sharif said his country has every right to give a befitting reply.

With input from agencies
India struck nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir today (May 7) in response to the Pahalgam attack in which 26 were left dead. India has used a variety of methods to make it difficult for Pakistan to respond militarily. Lets take a closer look read more

India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, bottom right, addresses a press conference after India struck multiple sites inside Pakistani controlled territory with missiles under Operation Sindoor, in New Delhi, India, Wednesday, May 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)

Will Pakistan respond military to Operation Sindoor?

India has made it extremely difficult for Pakistan to do so.

India struck nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir today (May 7) in response to the Pahalgam attack in which 26 were left dead.

These jets were u

But how has India cornered Pakistan?

Lets take a closer look

Diplomacy

India began by immediately reaching out to countries.

Sources told The Hindu that the Indian govern ment briefed nearly half a dozen countries including the US, the UK, Saudi Arabia, UAE and Russia in the immediate aftermath of the attack.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The leaders of these nations have been in touch with Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the past couple of weeks.

Follow all updates on Operation Sindoor LIVE here

As per CNBC, India spoke to both permanent and non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval spoke to US NSA and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, UK NSA Jonathan Powell, Saudi NSA Musaid Al Aiban, UAE NSA HH Sheikh Tahnoon and Secretary General of the UAE National Security Council Ali Al Shamsi, Japanese NSA Masataka Okano, Russian NSA Sergei Shoigu, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and French diplomatic adviser Emmanuel Bonne.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri also briefed diplomats from 13 United Nations Security Council (UNSC) member nations.

Foreign minister S Jaishankar also held a series of phone calls with counterparts from around the world.

Indias EAM S Jaishankar held calls with a number of counterparts on Operation Sindoor. File Image

Had a telecon with FM Takeshi Iwaya of Japan. Appreciate the strong condemnation of the April 22 terrorist attack. Discussed Indias action against the cross-border terrorist infrastructure this morning, Jaishankar wrote.

He also held a joint call with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot and Germanys Johann Wadephul. Appreciated their solidarity and support in the wake of the Pahalgam terrorist attack. Discussed ensuring zero tolerance for terrorism, he wrote on social media.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

After his conversation with Spains Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares, Jaishankar wrote on X, Discussed Indias firm and measured response to cross-border terrorism.

Terror bases

India also emphasised that only terror bases had been targeted during Operation Sindoor on May 7.

The Defence Ministry, in a statement issued at 1:44 am, confirmed the launch of Operation Sindoor, aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure used to plan and direct attacks on the Indian soil.

This included strikes on Bhawalpur, a stronghold of the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror outfit and Lashkar-e-Taibas base Muridke.

A little while ago, the Indian Armed forces launched Operation Sindoor hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed, the Indian Army said in its initial statement.

India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution, the statement from the Indian government read.

As per The Hindu, the Ministry of External Affairs said India had targeted credible leads of those involved in the Pahalgam attack.

Among the top targets of Operation Sindoor was Bahawalpur. This Pakistani city houses the terror camp that serves as the headquarters of Masood Azhar-led Jaish-e-Mohammed. File image/Reuters

Indias actions have been focused and precise. They were measured, responsible and designed to be non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani civilian, economic or military targets have been hit. Only known terror camps were targeted, the Indian Embassy in Washington said.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The MEA added that it hoped that Pakistan would take action against terrorists and the infrastructure that supports them.

Instead, during the fortnight that has gone by, Pakistan has indulged in denial and made allegations of false flag operations against India.

During a press conference on Wednesday, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said, Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives.

New Delhis action thus narrows Islamabads choice of targets in India.

Threat of retaliation

India has also made it clear that any military response from Pakistan will result in retaliation.

NSA briefed his counterparts on actions taken and method of execution, which was measured, non-escalatory and restrained. He emphasised that India had no intent to escalate but was well prepared to retaliate resolutely should Pakistan decide to escalate, an official was quoted as saying by The Hindu.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

Doval told his counterparts in various countries that India has no intent to escalate tensions but is prepared to retaliate resolutely if Pakistan does so, officials have said.

What do experts say?

They think that some response from Pakistan is inevitable.

Pakistans response is sure to come. The challenge would be to manage the next level of escalation. This is where crisis diplomacy will matter, Ajay Bisaria, a former Indian high commissioner to Pakistan, told BBC.

Pakistan will be getting advice to exercise restraint. But the key will be the diplomacy after the Pakistani response to ensure that both countries dont rapidly climb the ladder of escalation.

Ejaz Hussain, a Lahore-based political and military analyst, added that strikes were largely anticipated given the prevailing tensions.

Given the Pakistani militarys media rhetoric and stated resolve to settle the scores, retaliatory action, possibly in the form of surgical strikes across the border, appears likely in the coming days, Hussain told the website.
India launched Operation Sindoor in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir early on Wednesday (May 7) morning. Under this operation, Indian forces carried out strikes in nine locations across its neighbouring country. Soon after, leaders from across the world urged for restraint read more

US President Donald Trump (left) and Xi Jinping (right) urged India and Pakitsan to de-escalate the situation along the LoC. AP

India launched a series of strikes on Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir early on Wednesday (May 7) in retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22. The strikes, which were carried out at 1:44 am, targeted nine high terror zones, the strongholds of terror groups Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Under Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force destroyed four terror camps in Pakistan and five in PoK. The key sites include Bahawalpur (JeM HQ), Muridke (LeT HQ), Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Sialkot, Gulpur, Bhimber, Bagh and Chak Amru. Following the attack on terror zones, Pakistan violated the ceasefire in Poonch which led to eight civilians losing their lives while close to 25 others were injured.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Click here to get the latest updates on 

Several global leaders have shown concern and called for de-escalation between the two nations. From Donald Trump to UAEs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, have urged India and Pakistan to exercise restraint.

United States

US President Donald Trump hoped that the hostilities between the two nations end very quickly. He said, Its a shame. Just heard about it. I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. Theyve been fighting for a long time. Theyve been fighting for many, many decades. I hope it ends very quickly.

When asked if he has any message for the countries, he said, No, I just hope it ends very quickly.

Marco Rubio

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that he had been keeping a close eye on the situation between India and Pakistan. In a statement posted on X, Rubio said, I am monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely. I echo President Trumps comments earlier today that this hopefully ends quickly and will continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution.

I am monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely. I echo @POTUS's comments earlier today that this hopefully ends quickly and will continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution.  Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) May 6, 2025

United Nations

The spokesperson for UN General Secretary Antonio Guterres called for maximum military restraint from both countries. He further said that Guterres is very concerned about the Indian strikes in Pakistan.

The Secretary-General is very concerned about the Indian military operations across the Line of Control and international border. He calls for maximum military restraint from both countries. The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan, the spokesperson said.

China

Chinas foreign ministry on Wednesday condemned the attack and called for restraint on both sides. It said, We call on both India and Pakistan to prioritise peace and stability, remain calm and restrained and avoid taking actions that further complicate the situation, a spokesperson for Beijings foreign ministry said.

Japan

Japans Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi urged the two countries to stabilise the situation through dialogue. Condemning the April 22 terror act, he said, In regard to the terrorist act that occurred in Kashmir on April 22, our country firmly condemns such acts of terrorism.

Furthermore, we express strong concern that this situation may lead to further retaliatory exchanges and escalate into a full-scale military conflict. For the peace and stability of South Asia, we strongly urge both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and stabilize the situation through dialogue, he further said.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates urged India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and de-escalate along the border.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the UAE stressed the importance of heeding the voices calling for dialogue and mutual understanding to prevent military escalation, strengthen stability in South Asia, and avoid further regional tensions.

Russia

Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin had stressed that the perpetrators of the Pahalgam terrorist attack and their supporters must be brought to justice during a telephonic conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reported news website Times of India.

Notably, during the conversation there was no mention of restraint or use of diplomatic means in the readout issued by the Kremlin.

Pahalgam terror attack

One of the most devastating terror attacks took place on April 22 when terrorists opened fire on civilians in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir. Terrorists, dressed in military fatigues and armed with M4 carbines and AK-47 rifles, targeted a group of tourists which led to the deaths of at least 26 people.

The Resistance Front (TRF), a terrorist group affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the massacre. The group cited opposition to demographic changes in Kashmir as a motive, referencing the settlement of over 85,000 outsiders in the region.

With inputs from agencies
Indias much-awaited action against the Pahalgam terror attack came in the wee hours of Wednesday (May 7) in the form of Operation Sindoor. The Indian Armed Forces carried out military strikes on nine terror bases  four in Pakistan and five in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Heres what happened read more

Two weeks ago, on April 22, terrorists emerged from the pine tree forests of the Baisaran meadow in south Kashmirs Pahalgam and gunned down 26 people, shocking Indians and people across the world. Following that dastardly terrorist attack that targeted mostly tourists, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had vowed that the perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack would be relentlessly pursued and the nation stands united in its resolve to ensure justice is delivered. India will identify, trace, and punish every terrorist and their backers. We will pursue them to the ends of the Earth.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Terrorism will not go unpunished. Every effort will be made to ensure justice is done. The entire nation is one in this resolve.

And as PM Modi vowed, that moment of justice was delivered in the wee hours of May 7 when Indias Armed Forces  the Army, Navy and Air Force  conducted strikes on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Catch all the live updates from here

Minutes after the strikes, the Indian Army posted an image that read Operation Sindoor with the text: #PahalgamTerrorAttack. Justice is Served. Jai Hind!

But how did it all unfold? How did the Indian military strike down terror sites in the neighbouring country? Heres what we found out so far.

India Operation Sindoor strikes Pak, PoK

The Indian Armed Forces have stated that they carried out military strikes, under the name of Operation Sindoor at 1.44 am on Wednesday. Under the operation, the three arms of the military hit terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed.

Sources from the establishment have said that the Armed Forces used precision strike weapon systems, including loitering munitions. They further stated that Operation Sindoor saw the striking of nine terrorist targets across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, each of them having an association with major terror plots and infiltration attempts directed at India.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

A city view of Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. In the wee hours of Wednesday, India carried out strikes on terror bases in Pakistan and PoK, dubbed as Operation Sindoor. Reuters

As per information available, Operation Sindoor struck at four Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) facilities, including Bahawalpur, which is widely known to serve as headquarters of the Masood Azhar-led terror group. Similarly, Indias Armed Forces struck three Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) facilities, including those in Muridke and Muzaffarabad. Operation Sindoor also struck at the heart of two Hizbul Mujahideen locations.

Operation Sindoor UPDATES: Here is the list of nine terror facility locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir that have been successfully neutralised-



1. Markaz Subhan Allah, Bahawalpur - JeM

2. Markaz Taiba, Muridke - LeT

3. Sarjal, Tehra Kalan - JeM

4. Mehmoona Joya, pic.twitter.com/Q3Q6vyw0Sa  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 7, 2025

The Indian military stated in a press release later, No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

News agency Reuters, reporting from Muzaffarabad in PoK reported that multiple explosions could be heard in the wee hours of the morning. Some residents were also quoted as saying that they heard jets flying above in the early hours of the day.

Visuals of Operation Sindoor reveal the true nature of Indias strikes. In one video, a crowd of people, many on bikes, is gathered on a busy road. It is the middle of the night but, on the horizon, there is a large orange glow and smoke can be seen in the distance. Seconds later, there is a whistling sound and a massive detonation as an Indian missile, hits one of its targets. The impact of the strike causes the man filming the video to stagger back.

A large and bright orange fireball follows, sending plumes of acrid smoke mushrooming out in all directions, and people can be heard praying in Arabic and shouting in panic.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Bahawalpur in Pakistan 



Indian Army in action.  pic.twitter.com/hXgeSHOZty  Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) May 6, 2025

One top source stated that Pakistan was caught completely unaware by Operation Sindoor as they were under the impression that India would be carrying out mock defence drills. Instead, India launched its real operation. Yet again, a Modi-led India had stumped Pakistan with surprise and stealth, leaving it stunned.

Sources within the government have revealed that PM Modi constantly monitored Operation Sindoor. He was briefed continuously by the Chief of Defence Staff, senior intelligence officers, and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

Local residents walk through rubble of a building damaged during Indias Operation Sindoor in Muridke, a town in Pakistans Punjab province. AP

India briefs countries on Operation Sindoor

As Indias Armed Forces carried out Operation Sindoor, the countrys senior officials spoke to their counterparts in a number of countries on the steps taken by New Delhi. Among the countries briefed were the United States, United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Russia.

The Indian embassy in the US said National Security Adviser Ajit Doval had spoken to Marco Rubio and briefed him on the actions taken.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

A local resident shows pieces of an Indian missile at the site of an attack near Muzaffarabad. AP

Pakistans response to Operation Sindoor

Pakistan said that Indias strikes had been carried out from within its airspace and that its air force jets were airborne in response to Operation Sindoor. The Pakistani military further stated that it had brought down five Indian jets in retaliation  however, there was no confirmation of this from the Indian side.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar said that eight civilians have died and 35 others have been injured in the Indian strikes. The highest number of casualties were reported in the city of Ahmedpur East, he adds.

According to Pakistans press wing, a mosque was hit in Ahmedpur East as well as in Muzaffarabad.

Following Operation Sindoor, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said, Pakistan has every right to respond forcefully to this act of war imposed by India, and a forceful response is being given. In fact, Sharif has called for a meeting of its National Security Committee at 10 am local time.

   



The treacherous enemy has launched a cowardly attack on five locations within Pakistan. This heinous act of aggression will not go unpunished.

Pakistan reserves the absolute right to respond decisively to this unprovoked Indian attack  a  Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 6, 2025

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Aftermath of Operation Sindoor

Soon after India carried out its military strikes on terror targets, dubbed as Operation Sindoor, Pakistani troops resorted to heavy firing along the Line of Control in Rajouri and Poonch districts in Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan again violates the ceasefire agreement by firing artillery in Bhimber Gali in Poonch-Rajauri area, the Army posted on X, adding that the Indian side is responding appropriately in a calibrated manner.

Reports state that the firing has resulted in the death of three civilians and injured five more.

Moreover, Flight operations at some Indian airports, especially those close to the India-Pakistan border or in the vicinity of key Indian Air Force bases, have been impacted. No civil flights will be operated from or to the Srinagar airport on Wednesday, according to airport officials.

The administration in Jammu and Kashmir have also called for the closure of all educational institutions in the five border districts of Jammu province in view of the situation unfolding.

With inputs from agencies
India had vowed justice for the Pahalgam attack on April 22 in Kashmir. Two weeks later, it delivered retribution through Operation Sindoor  a coordinated strike on terror camps and bases within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. One of the sites on Indias hitlist was Bahawalpur. Heres why read more

Among the top targets of Operation Sindoor was Bahawalpur. This Pakistani city houses the terror camp that serves as the headquarters of Masood Azhar-led Jaish-e-Mohammed. File image/Reuters

As India slept, its Armed Forces carried out a one-of-a-kind military strike, targeting 21 terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in an operation dubbed Operation Sindoor. The Army, Navy and Air Force conducted precision and coordinated strikes on terror infrastructure linked to three major terror outfits  Maulana Masood Azhars Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Hafiz Saeeds Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), and Syed Salahuddins Hizbul Mujahideen (HM).

Among the 21 sites targeted was the Markaz Subhan Allah camp in Pakistans Bahawalpur. Visuals from the strike reveal the damaged Jamia Masjid inside the Subhan Allah camp, which showed heaps of debris lying all around and a gaping hole in its roof.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Catch live updates from here

But why did India choose Bahawalpur as one the locations for Operation Sindoor? It all links back to JeM chief Masood Azhar, one of Indias most dreaded terrorists. We explain.

All about Bahawalpur

A city in the southeastern Punjab province of Pakistan, Bahawalpur was founded in 1748 by Muhammad Bahawal Khan and ruled by the Nawabs of Bahawalpur until 1955. It is also associated with the Second Sikh War of 1848, and the two World Wars for providing forces and resources to the British. It also has a rich cultural heritage and presently has an economy largely based on agriculture and handicrafts.

Today, it is Pakistans 12th largest city, with the 2017 Pakistan census revealing that over 762,111 people reside there.

In August 1988, it became a city that everyone knew of when General Zia ul-Haq, then president of Pakistan, died in an air crash after departing from its airport.

Operation Sindoor visual being displayed on a screen outside the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) building, in Mumbai. PTI

Bahawalpur and its JeM connection

But why did India select Bahawalpur to be one of the targets in Operation Sindoor? Its because the city serves as the nerve centre of Jaish-e-Mohammed and is, in fact, where JeM chief Masood Azhar was born and where his family lives even today.

Following Operation Sindoor, JeM chief, who was arrested in India in 1994 and released after the Air India IC 814 hijack, claimed that 10 members of his family  including his elder sister, her husband, a nephew and his wife, a niece, and five children from the extended family  and four of his aides were killed.

Masood Azhar, founder of Jaish-e-Mohammed, and one of Indias most wanted terrorists. File image/AP

Ten members of my family were blessed with this happiness together tonight five are innocent children, my elder sister, her honourable husband. My scholar Fazil bhanje (nephew) and his wife and my beloved scholar Fazilah (bhanji)  my dear brother Huzaifah and his mother. Two more dear companions, he said, saying that those killed have become the guests of Allah.

Moreover, the JeMs headquarters, Markaz Subhan Allah, is also located in Bahawalpur. Operational since 2015, it is spread over 15 acres and serves as JeMs hub for recruitment, fundraising, and indoctrination. Intel reveals that the facility features a central mosque, a madrassa for over 600 students, a gymnasium, a swimming pool, and stables.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The training of JeM recruits also occurs here; in fact, the perpetrators of the Pulwama attack in 2019  wherein 40 Central Reserve Police Force were killed  were trained at this site.

Besides training, the Bahawalpur camp also houses important JeM functionaries such as Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar, and Maulana Ammar.

Notably, the terror camp is located just a few miles away from Pakistans 31 Corps military cantonment, which, defence experts suggest, is clear evidence of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISIs) support for the group.

JeMs terror trail in India

Since its inception, the Masood Azhar-led JeM has carried out innumerable attacks on India. In October 2001, the terror group was responsible for a suicide bombing at the Jammu and Kashmir legislative assembly in Srinagar, which killed 30 people.

In the same year, the JeM along with Lashkar terrorists launched a combined attack on the Indian Parliament in New Delhi, killing 14 people, including eight security personnel. This attack led to a major military standoff between India and Pakistan in 2001.

Years later, in 2016, JeM once again struck when it attacked the Pathankot airbase, killing six people. The JeM was also responsible for the 2016 Uri attack in which 17 Army personnel were killed; and the 2019 Pulwama attack, which killed over 40 CRPF personnel.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

With inputs from agencies
India used indigenously-built SkyStriker suicide drones, developed by Bengaluru-based Alpha Design (ADTL) in partnership with Israels Elbit Systems, to carry out precision strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), along with Scalp cruise missiles and Hammer bombs. These drones can identify, track, and strike designated targets using a five kg or 10 kg warhead fitted within their body. Each drone is autonomous and has a range of 100 km read more

India carried out missile strikes on nine terror-related locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. AP

India used indigenously-built SkyStriker suicide drones to carry out precision strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), along with Scalp cruise missiles and Hammer bombs.

They were developed by Bengaluru-based Alpha Design (ADTL) in collaboration with Israels Elbit Systems.

This was Indias first strike in Pakistans Punjab region since the war in 1971, combining both land and air forces in a joint operation.

Catch all the live updates from here

Named Operation Sindoor, the strike came as a surprise to Pakistan. The mission was planned and carried out by all three Indian armed forces, who launched accurate missile attacks during the night.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The selected targets were believed to be linked to the leadership of Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba, groups involved in sponsoring terrorism in India.

In this explainer, we explore what the locally developed drones are, how they operate, and the key details about Operation Sindoor.

What are SkyStriker suicide drones?

The SkyStriker drones, made by Alpha Design (ADTL) in Bengaluru with support from Elbit Systems of Israel, were first used during Operation Sindoor in the forward areas of Jammu and Kashmir.

Officially known as the Low-Cost Miniature Swarm Drone or Loitering Munition System (LMS), these drones are built to find and destroy targets chosen by operators, using a warhead fitted inside the body, according to CNN-News18.

The report added that the Indian Army had urgently ordered about 100 SkyStriker units in 2021.

According to the Elbit Security Systems of Israel, the SkyStriker flies like an unmanned aircraft and hits like a missile. It is a loitering munition made for long-range, precision strikes in tactical situations.

With its electric propulsion and quiet flight, the SkyStriker is suited for silent, low-level missions. It can locate, follow, and attack marked targets with either a 5 kg or 10 kg warhead fitted in its body.

Each drone is self-directed and has a range of 100 km. Its quiet design allows it to fly under the radar at low altitudes during operations, according to The Times of India.

SkyStriker is seen as a low-cost solution that still delivers accurate strikes over long distances.

What are loitering munitions?

Loitering munitions are precision weapons that hover over a target area before attacking. They can be remotely operated or function on their own, scanning for and hitting targets.

Once they find their mark, they crash into it and explode.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

They are often referred to as suicide drones, kamikaze drones or exploding drones.

How do they function?

Loitering munitions carry a warhead and can wait around in the sky until they spot a target. When they do, they dive in and destroy it.

They are useful in hitting hidden or short-term targets quickly without putting expensive military equipment or personnel at risk. They also make it possible to pick targets more carefully, according to Johnnette Technologies.

A damaged portion of the Bilal Mosque is seen in Muzaffarabad. Reuters

Some of these drones are fitted with artificial intelligence. This allows them to handle complex missions with less human control, making them faster and more efficient than older systems.

Unlike regular unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which are often used for surveillance or gathering information, loitering munitions are made to directly attack targets.

In December last year, the Indian Army received 480 loitering munitions from a defence company based in Nagpur. These had over 75 per cent Indian-made parts.

The first locally made loitering munition, Nagastra-1, was developed by Solar Industries in Nagpur. The company supplied all 480 units to the army.

Loitering munitions have been around since the 1980s. Over time, they have been used more widely for different ranges - short (2-15 km), medium (15-50 km), and long (50-100 km). These are used in missions such as targeting enemy troops, bunkers, tanks, air bases, missile sites and other important infrastructure.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Pakistans reaction to Indian missile strikes

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described Indias missile strikes on terror camps as an act of war and warned of a strong reply.

Pakistan has every right to give a strong response to this war imposed by India The Pakistani nation and its armed forces know very well how to deal with the enemy. We will never allow the enemy to succeed in its malicious objectives, he posted on X after India confirmed the strikes.

In another statement, the Pakistani government said the reckless action had pushed the two nuclear-armed countries closer to a major conflict.

What is Operation Sindoor?

In the early hours of Wednesday, India carried out missile strikes on nine terror-related locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

One of the sites included Bahawalpur, a place known to be linked to the Jaish-e-Mohammad group.

Operation Sindoor UPDATES: Here is the list of nine terror facility locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir that have been successfully neutralised-



1. Markaz Subhan Allah, Bahawalpur - JeM

2. Markaz Taiba, Muridke - LeT

3. Sarjal, Tehra Kalan - JeM

4. Mehmoona Joya, pic.twitter.com/Q3Q6vyw0Sa  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 7, 2025

The Indian Army confirmed the operation in a statement released at 1.44 am.

According to the army, the mission focused on terror bases that were behind attacks on India, including the recent Pahalgam attack.

The army said the strikes were carried out in a careful and controlled way. They did not target any Pakistani military sites to avoid an escalation.

A little while ago, the Indian Armed forces launched Operation Sindoor hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," the Army said.

Sources told CNN-News18 that the locations struck were training camps linked to Masood Azhar and Hafiz Saeed. These sites were reportedly used to train and prepare new recruits, some of whom were sent towards the Line of Control for infiltration.

A damaged building near Muzaffarabad, May 7, 2025. AP

The operation took place exactly two weeks after the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had held several meetings following the Pahalgam incident, was closely monitoring the operation throughout the night. He had earlier promised to identify, track, and punish those behind the attack and their supporters.

After the missile strikes, the Pakistani army responded by firing artillery along the Line of Control in the Poonch-Rajouri area. Pakistan has violated the ceasefire for 14 days in a row.

Soon after the strikes, the Indian Army shared an image online with the words: Operation Sindoor and the hashtag #PahalgamTerrorAttack, along with the message: Justice is Served. Jai Hind!

Later, in a press release, the Indian military said, No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution.

While the operation was underway, senior Indian officials informed key international partners about the steps taken. Countries briefed included the United States, United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Russia.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

With inputs from agencies
During Operation Sindoor, India carried out an air strike on Pakistans terror nursery, Muridke Taiba Markaz. Established in 2000 by Lashkar-e-Taiba founder Hafiz Saeed, the compound has long been under the radar for being the operational and ideological heart of the terror outfit. Notably, 26/11 attacker Ajmal Kasab and co-conspirator David Headley were also trained here read more

Local residents walk through rubble of a building damaged during India's Operation Sindoor in Muridke, a town in Pakistan's Punjab province. AP

In the wee hours of Wednesday, Indias armed forces launched a targeted operation, striking terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 innocents, mostly tourists, were brutally shot dead by terrorists.

Under Operation Sindoor, Indias tri-services coordinated a series of precise strikes against key terror infrastructure, targeting banned terror outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), which use these facilities for training and as hideouts.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In the operation, nine terror sites were hit, including locations in Pakistan, such as Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in PoK.

The Ministry of Defence emphasised that the operation was focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature, stating, No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution.

Catch up on all the live updates from here

Among the most significant targets was a mosque complex in Muridke, a town about 40 km from Lahore in Punjab province. Long considered the operational and ideological heart of the LeT, the complex was infamous for being Pakistans terror nursery. Heres what we know about it.

A bastion for Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists

Established in 2000 by LeT founder Hafiz Saeed, Muridke Markaz has been on the radar of Indian intelligence agencies for years. Known as one of LeTs main centres, it has long been linked to training terrorists and spreading radical ideology.

Located about 2530 km from the Attari-Wagah border, the sprawling 82-acre Markaz Taiba complex sees nearly 1,000 students enrol every year. It has facilities like a madrasa, a preaching centre, residential buildings, and even a school. But beyond this, the complex is also an hotbet for indoctrination, arms training, and recruitment of terrorists.

The site includes the Sufa Academy, which trains male recruits, and a separate wing for women. LeTs senior leadership is also believed to have used the site for meetings and training sessions. Reports say that even Al Qaedas Osama Bin Laden contributed Rs 10 million to fund parts of the complex, including a mosque and guesthouse.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The Markaz, which is 25-30 km from the Attari-Wagah Border, enrols around 1,000 students in different courses annually and is known for churning out terror entities for LeT annually. File image/AFP

Originally, the centre supported the Afghan jihad against the Soviets in the 1980s. But once the Soviets withdrew, the focus shifted to anti-India operations. After the 9/11 attacks, when Pakistan officially banned LeT under global pressure, the Markaz was renamed Jamaat-ud-Dawa and presented as a seminary, India Today reported.

Despite the name change, Indian agencies have continued to link the site to terror activities. Its been mentioned in several investigations for its role in planning attacks on Indian soil.

How Kasab and Headley were trained at Muridke Markaz

Muridke Markaz came into the spotlight during investigations into the 2008 Mumbai attacks, when two key terroristsMohammed Ajmal Amir Kasab, also known as Abu Mujahid, and David Coleman Headley (Daood Sayed Gilani)spoke about being trained at the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) complex in Pakistan.

Both had ties with terror groups like LeT, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and even al-Qaeda at different points.

According to a Deccan Herald report citing a chargesheet filed before Mumbais Esplanade Metropolitan Court by the citys Crime Branch-CID, terrorists involved in the 26/11 attacks were trained at multiple locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, overseen by senior LeT leader Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi.

In his confession to the police, Kasab detailed how he was first introduced to LeT.

He told us about a place called Marqaz Taiba, Muridke, and told us to go there. It was an LeT training camp. We went to the place by bus. We showed the receipts at the gate of the camp. We were allowed inside Then we were taken to the actual camp area.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Kasab then recalled his training at Muridke Markaz.

At Muridke, we were taught swimming and made familiar with the life of fishermen at sea. We were given lectures on the working of Indian security agencies. We were shown clippings highlighting atrocities on Muslims in India, he said.

Kasab was found guilty and hanged till death for the barbaric attack that claimed 166 lives and injured over 300 others.

jmal Kasab at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus on the night of November 26, 2008. File image/PTI

David Headley, another co-conspirator, who is serving a 35-year prison sentence in US, also testified about Muridke during his deposition before Judge G A Sanap via video conference.

Headley explained the different stages of LeTs training programme, which included Daura-e-Sufa, Daura-e-Aam, Daura-e-Khas, Daura-e-Ribat, and a leadership course.

He said Daura-e-Sufa, the initial study course, was conducted at Muridke, just outside Lahore. The more advanced trainingDaura-e-Aam and Daura-e-Khastook place in Muzaffarabad, while Daura-e-Ribat was held in Mansehra, near Abbottabad.

Headley conducted recce of target locations in Mumbai, gave locations to Lashkar-e-Taiba operatives, helped plan and execute the Mumbai attacks. File image

Headley is currently serving a 35-year prison sentence in the United States.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

By targeting the Markaz complex, Indian forces not only struck at infrastructure but also hit the base of LeTs jihadist project. The strike sends a clear message on Indias resolve that any centre that supports or spreads terrorism will not be spared.

With inputs from agencies
At least 10 civilians were killed and over 20 others injured after the Pakistan Army engaged in heavy mortar shelling along the Line of Control. This took place after Indias launch of Operation Sindoor. Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha instructed deputy commissioners to relocate people from high-risk areas to safer zones read more

The Indian Army responded to the shelling with return fire. PTI

On Wednesday morning (May 7), India launched a large counter-terror operation called Operation Sindoor at nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

The strike, carried out at 1.44 am, was a direct response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, where 26 people, most of them tourists, were killed.

Catch all the live updates from here

Soon after the strikes, the Pakistan army began intense mortar shelling along the Line of Control, which led to the deaths of at least 10 civilians and left 20 others injured.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

ALSO READ | From downed jets to civilian deaths: Debunking Pakistans misinformation on Operation Sindoor

The shelling began in the early hours of Wednesday, destroying homes, tearing up fields, and turning quiet nights into chaos.

In this explainer, we take a look at the situation along the LoC as tensions between India and Pakistan rise.

What happened?

At least 10 civilians lost their lives and over 20 others were injured after the Pakistan army engaged in heavy mortar shelling along the Line of Control. This came as Indian forces launched Operation Sindoor.

Officials told CNN-News18 that mortar shelling was reported in Krishna Ghati, Shahpur, and Mankote areas of Poonch, as well as Laam, Manjakote, and Gambeer Brahmana in Rajouri district.

The shelling targeted forward villages in Poonch and Rajouri, damaging homes and forcing residents to flee. Two CRPF jawans were also hurt but are said to be in stable condition, according to officials.

The Indian Army responded to the shelling with return fire.

Many families fled in panic, some barefoot in the dark, and sought safety in underground bunkers where they could, Deccan Herald reported.

People gather near a damaged property after alleged heavy firing and shelling by Pakistan military, at Irwan Khanetar village in Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir. PTI

Schools in Poonch, Rajouri, and Kupwara were shut indefinitely as the shelling continued through the morning.

Pakistans troops had already been firing small arms in two to three sectors over the last two weeks. But in recent days, the attacks spread across the entire Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Indian Army posted on social media that Pakistani troops fired artillery in the Bhimber Gali sector, calling it another ceasefire violation. It said Indian forces were responding in a calibrated manner.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In Uri, residents said the shelling began around 11 pm, with several shells landing in inhabited areas. Several houses were damaged and caught fire in the shelling, a local told The Indian Express. We are fleeing to safer places.

ALSO READ | Flight operations hit, schools shut: How Indians are affected after Operation Sindoor

Evacuations ordered

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha asked deputy commissioners to shift people from high-risk areas to safer zones, following a review of the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir.

Sinha said he is personally keeping watch and that the government is ready to handle any emergency.

People walk past closed shops in Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir, after heavy firing and shelling by Pakistan military overnight. PTI

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also directed officials to begin evacuating civilians living near the LoC, after Pakistani troops opened fire along the Line of Control and the International Border, sources told India Today.

Took stock of the situation in border districts of J&K UT with all the senior administrative, police and district officials, including DCs of all the border districts. I am closely monitoring the situation and the government is fully prepared to deal with any eventuality, Sinha said in a post on X.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

He added that those being moved will be provided with food, transport, and shelter.

At the same time, J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah held a review meeting with senior civil officials, including Chief Secretary Atul Dulloo, to assess the situation on the ground.

Operation Sindoor

The operation was carried out exactly 14 days after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that left 26 people dead.

It was a joint mission involving the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with troops and equipment mobilised across different locations.

The Indian Army said the operation targeted terror bases believed to be behind attacks in India, including the one in Pahalgam.

Security personnel keep vigil amid high alert in Pulwama district, J&K. PTI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a Cabinet meeting during which he described Operation Sindoor as a moment of pride.

He also praised the armed forces for their commendable job and immaculate execution.

The whole country was looking up to us. We are proud of our Army, the Prime Minister said.

Meanwhile, Pakistans Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called the action an act of war and said Pakistan reserves the right to give a befitting reply.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Shortly after the strikes, the Indian Army posted an image online that read Operation Sindoor with the hashtag #PahalgamTerrorAttack and the message: Justice is Served. Jai Hind!

With inputs from agencies
Bad Bunny didn't just make a fashion statement at the 2025 Met Galahe delivered a whole cultural moment. Draped in a rich brown Prada suit inspired by his Puerto Rican roots, Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio showed up solo, looking every bit the icon he's become. No Kendall Jenner by his side. No distractions. Just Benito, his heritage, and one hell of a message.

"I hope people think I look good," he told Vogue with a grin. "We worked for several months on this. Some of the pieces are inspired by Puerto Rican culture. The tie is made from the same fabricwe did something special."

And special it was.

The looktailored, rich in color, and full of texturenodded to jibaro traditions while elevating them through the lens of high fashion. From the oversized straw-style hat to the caramel shirt and oversized suitcase (from Prada's Fall 2025 collection), every detail whispered both home and global takeover. Bad Bunny didn't just dress for the theme (Superfine: Tailoring Black Style)he told a story. And then he dropped a bomb.

"This is a special and unique show," he said on the red carpet. "My world tour was announced today."

Yup. The Debi Tirar Mas Fotos World Tour kicks off this November in Santo Domingo and stretches across Latin America, Australia, Japan, and Europe before wrapping up in Brussels next July. But before all that?

He's going home.

From July to mid-September, Bad Bunny will host a 30-date residency at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico in San Juan. The show is called "No Me Quiero Ir de Aqui" (I Don't Want to Leave Here)and Benito promises it's unlike anything fans have ever seen. "The Puerto Rico show is 100% different," he told press. "It's not going to happen ever again."

This year's Met Gala appearance also marked a shift for the reggaeton king. In 2023, he co-hosted the gala and wore a backless Jacquemus suit with Kendall Jenner on his arm. In 2024, they showed up again, all eyes on them. But 2025? Benito came soloand stole the night.

He wore his heart and homeland on his sleeve (literally), walked alone, and made it all about the music, the message, and the moment. No more whispers of tabloid romance. Just a global superstar reconnecting with where it all beganand bringing it to the world stage.

Between his tribute to Puerto Rican identity, his seamless blend of street style and luxury tailoring, and a tour that's already generating buzz as the year's hottest ticket, Bad Bunny is rewriting the rules of celebrity.

And he's doing it en espanol, in Prada, with perreo in his veins.

Originally published on Latin Times
On Wednesday (May 7), India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror-linked sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. The strikes deliberately avoided military or civilian infrastructure, aligning with Indias evolving doctrine of strategic restraint aimed at countering terrorism without provoking full-scale conflict read more

Indian security force personnel stand guard in Wuyan, Pulwama, in Kashmir, India, May 7, 2025. File Image/Reuters

In the early hours of May 7, 2025, India launched a series of precision strikes targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Dubbed Operation Sindoor, the action came in direct response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 that left 26 civilians dead.

As tensions flared, what stood out in New Delhis military response was its careful calibration. The Indian government described the operation as measured, focused, and non-escalatory, making it clear that its targets were not Pakistani military assets or civilian infrastructure but terrorist sites alone.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

This deliberate restraint reflects the core of Indias enduring strategic doctrine: a policy of controlled retaliation that projects strength without inviting uncontrolled escalation.

In an increasingly volatile subcontinental security environment, Indias doctrine of strategic restraint continues to play a pivotal role.

What is strategic restraint?

Indias doctrine of strategic restraint is not codified in official policy documents but has been a consistent thread in its approach to regional conflict. It prioritises:

Avoidance of full-scale war, particularly with nuclear-armed adversaries.

Use of military force for targeted, retaliatory purposes.

Maintenance of diplomatic legitimacy and moral high ground.

Calibration of responses to prevent triggering nuclear thresholds.

This doctrine is not passive. Over the years, India has incrementally evolved from non-action to limited military operations that still fall within the framework of strategic restraint.

Operation Sindoor is the latest example in a continuum of responses intended to deter terrorism without plunging the region into open conflict.

From Kargil to Balakot

Indias strategic restraint has defined its past responses to cross-border attacks:

Kargil War (1999) : Despite Pakistans infiltration across the Line of Control (LoC), India confined its military response to its side of the border.

2001 Parliament attack : Operation Parakram saw massive troop mobilisation but no kinetic action.

2016 Uri attack : Marked a doctrinal shift with India conducting surgical strikes across the LoC targeting terrorist launch pads.

2019 Pulwama attack: Led to the Balakot airstrike, Indias first air operation deep inside Pakistani territory since 1971, aimed at a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp.

Each of these responses has reflected a balance between demonstrating resolve and maintaining escalation control.

A calibrated strike witnessed in Operation Sindoor

According to the Indian Ministry of Defence, Operation Sindoor targeted nine sites linked to terror groups operating from Pakistani soil. Importantly, Indian officials stressed that these were not Pakistani military posts.

Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution, said the press release.

The strikes were reportedly carried out using air-launched precision munitions and monitored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi through the night.

The Indian response was swift, but it also appeared to be legally and diplomatically calculated.

Officials reportedly informed key international allies, including the United States and France, and highlighted the limited scope of the operation.

The Indian Embassy in Washington DC said that the National Security Adviser Ajit Doval spoke to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio shortly after the strikes were carried out.

Why measured this time?

Several strategic calculations informed Indias decision to adopt a restrained yet assertive posture:

Avoiding escalation with a nuclear-armed adversary

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Pakistans possession of tactical nuclear weapons creates a high-risk environment for any military operation.

Indias decision to strike terror camps while avoiding military installations was intended to deny Islamabad a justification for full-scale retaliation.

Maintaining diplomatic legitimacy

By framing the action as a counter-terror operation and ensuring it adhered to the principle of proportionality, India sought to remain within the bounds of international law.

Under Article 51 of the UN Charter, states have the right to self-defence  a principle India highlighted in its communication with global stakeholders.

Indias evolving military posture underlines a subtle shift  from reactive strategic restraint to proactive calibrated deterrence.

This approach allows New Delhi to:

Send a clear signal to terror groups and their patrons.

Retain the initiative in the conflict escalation ladder.

Demonstrate to domestic audiences that India will not absorb attacks passively.

Retain global goodwill as a responsible actor.

Operation Sindoor reaffirms New Delhis intent to respond to cross-border terrorism with precision, purpose and proportion. By carefully choosing the time, place, and nature of its response, India signals strength while avoiding strategic overreach.

The challenge now lies in managing post-strike tensions and ensuring that the deterrence message is received.

Also Watch:

With inputs from agencies
Maulana Masood Azhars 10 family members and four close associates have reportedly been killed in the Indian overnight strikes on Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Once jailed in India, the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror outfits founder is behind major terror attacks in the country, including the 2001 attack on Parliament read more

Indias Operation Sindoor has reportedly killed 10 members of terrorist Maulana Masood Azhars family in Pakistan. The Indian armed forces launched overnight strikes on nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on early Wednesday (May 7).

One of the sites struck by India was a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror camp in Bahawalpur, a city in Pakistans Punjab. JeM, a terror organisation led by Masood Azhar, has carried out many attacks in India. Indias missile strikes come two weeks after 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed in a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

But who is Masood Azhar, Indias most wanted terrorist?

Lets take a closer look.

The gifted orator poisoning minds with hate

Masood Azhar, a short and portly Pakistani cleric, has been promoting terrorism for decades. The son of a government schoolteacher, he studied in a seminary in Karachi.

Azhar joined the Harkat-ul-Mujahideen (HuM), a Pakistan-based terrorist outfit, in his 20s. After he was found physically unfit for jihadi training, Azhar started writing for the organisations monthly magazine called Sadai-e-Mujahid (Voice of the Mujahid), as per a New York Times (NYT) report.

As the magazine gained popularity, Azhar rose to the leadership ranks of the terror group.

His speeches at mosques and seminaries in foreign countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), instigating his listeners to pursue jihad against India to liberate Kashmir, proved his oratory skills. They also brought funds for the Harkat-ul-Mujahideen.

Azhar intensified efforts to free Kashmir, even travelling to Srinagar in 1994. It was then that he got arrested while meeting Harkat-ul-Ansar (HuA) terrorist groups commander Sajjad Afghani by the Indian security forces.

Both were sent to a prison in Jammu. Even in jail, Azhar continued to radicalise fellow prisoners.

In June 1999, Afghani and other inmates tried to escape, along with Azhar, by digging a tunnel. However, their plan failed and Afghani was killed.

Catch live updates on .

The founding of Jaish-e-Mohammad

After the failed bid to escape from prison, Masood Azhar did not have to wait long for his freedom.

On December 24, 1999, five masked terrorists hijacked Indian Airlines flight IC 814, about 40 minutes after it took off from the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, en route to Delhis Indira Gandhi International Airport.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Captain Devi Sharan, the pilot on board, was forced to fly the hijacked plane to Lahore. However, Pakistan denied permission for the flight, which was carrying 180 passengers, including the crew, to land.

The plane, running low on fuel, was then diverted to Amritsar for refuelling. The hijacked flight landed in Amritsar and there are claims that the Indian government did not act fast enough to stop it from leaving Indian soil.

As there was no fuel truck in sight, the hijackers grew suspicious of the time it was taking for refuelling and threatened to kill hostages if the pilot did not take off. After a few stops, the aircraft eventually ended up landing in Kandahar in Afghanistan, which was ruled by the Taliban.

The hijacking resulted in India releasing three jailed terrorists: Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, Mushtaq Zargar and Masood Azhar. The main objective was to secure Masood Azhar, that was nonnegotiable, CD Sahay, a senior officer from the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), told NYT in 2022.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

India later learnt that one of the hijackers was Azhars brother, Ibrahim.

Azhars release and return made him a popular figure in Pakistan. Soon, he started giving speeches endorsing jihad in Kashmir.

In March 2000, Azhar founded Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), which is behind several major terror attacks in India.

Jaish-e-Mohammad spreads terror in India

In October 2001, a JeM terrorist drove an explosives-laden vehicle to the gates of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly and blew it up. Two terrorists entered the Assembly and opened fire. As many as 38 people died in the attack.

India was struck with terror again in December of that year. Five JeM terrorists breached the Parliaments security and started shooting indiscriminately. Seven people were killed in the attack, which Indian investigators found was plotted by Azhars terror group, along with another Pakistani terrorist outfit, the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) of Hafiz Saeed.

The 2001 Parliament attack brought global attention to JeM, forcing Pakistan to ban the organisation and put Azhar under house arrest. He was released just a year later.

Jaish remained out of the news cycle after an attack in Srinagar in 2006. However, Azhar continued to radicalise through his speeches. David Headley, a Pakistani-American who helped plan the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, reportedly told Indian investigators that he was inspired by Azhars speeches at a mosque in Pakistan.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In 2016, Jaish members carried out an attack at the Indian Air Force (IAF) base at Punjabs Pathankot, killing six security personnel. The same year, JeM terrorists donning Indian police uniforms attacked the Indian Army soldiers in the town of Nagrota, near Jammu city. Four soldiers, including an officer, were killed.

Four JeM militants attacked an Indian Army Brigade headquarters in Uri near the Line of Control (LoC) in 2016, lobbing 17 grenades. As many as 17 Army personnel died in the attack.

On February 14, 2019, an IED-laden vehicle driven by a JeM suicide bomber rammed his vehicle into a bus with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy at Lethpora in Pulwama. Over 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives.

India retaliated by carrying out strikes at a Jaish terrorist-training camp in Balakot in Pakistans Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province.

Just two days after the Pulwama attack, Azhar threatened India with violence, asking it to surrender Kashmir. Hes the epitome of a violent extremist, instigating terrorism by words, Syed Akbaruddin, Indias then ambassador to the United Nations, told NYT.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In May 2019, Azhar was designated a terrorist by the UN Security Council (UNSC).

People burn pictures of Masood Azhar, the head of a Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad, as they celebrate the UN Security Council committees decision to blacklist Azhar, in Ahmedabad, India May 1, 2019. File Photo/Reuters

Pervez Musharraf, former Pakistan president, has previously admitted that Pakistans spy agency, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), used Jaish to carry out attacks in India.

Azhar, 56, is Indias most-wanted terrorist. He has remained out of the public eye since April 2019. The JeM founder is believed to be hiding in a safe place in Bahawalpur.

Masood Azhars family killed in Operation Sindoor

As per a PTI report, Masood Azhars 10 family members and four close aides were killed as Indian strikes targeted the JeMs headquarters in Bahawalpur.

A statement attributed to the terrorist claims that the strikes on Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur killed his elder sister and her husband, a nephew and his wife, another niece, and five children from his extended family.

This act of brutality has broken all boundaries. There should be no expectation of mercy now, the statement read.

With inputs from agencies
PM Narendra Modi personally decided to name Indias military strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as Operation Sindoor. The reason: He wanted to ensure that the countrys counteraction pays a fitting tribute to the widows of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack read more

On April 22, terrorists rounded up men, women and children at the Baisaran meadow in south Pahalgam, asked the men their religion and then shot them dead in front of their wives and children. The Pahalgam attack widowed 25 women, one of them being married just a few days ago.

Two weeks later, on May 7, India carried out military strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and PoK in an operation fittingly named Operation Sindoor. Shortly after India struck nine terror bases  four deep inside Pakistan and five in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir  the Indian Army shared a photo of sindoor (vermillion) with the mission name on X, and wrote: #PahalgamTerrorAttack. Justice is Served. Jai Hind!

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Catch all the live updates from here

Following the strikes, many have hailed the operation as it not only is a befitting response to the Pahalgam attack, but also for its name  a tribute to the women who lost their husbands in the Pahalgam terror attack.

What is sindoor and its significance?

Operation Sindoor has been named after sindoor, or vermillion, which is used by Hindu women to signify their marital status. Donned between the hair partition, sindoor is often considered as the holiest mark for a woman as she begins her journey as a wife.

Historically, it is said that the practice of applying sindoor dates back to the Harappan civilisation. Hindu scriptures also relay the message that Radha, Lord Krishnas wife, wore sindoor on her forehead, which resembled the shape of a flame. It is also said that Sita, Lord Rams wife applied sindoor to please her husband, according to the Hindu epic, Ramayana.

But the use of sindoor isnt just restricted to married women. In olden days, a sindoor tilak was worn by warriors heading into battle. Warriors in India have put tika or tilak, often of sindoor, on their forehead as they went to face the enemy.

Visuals and photos often depict the Rajputs and Maratha warriors with the red glistening mark on their forehead as they head their held high while battling the enemy for their land and dharma.

Security personnel keep vigil amid high alert after India struck nine terror targets in Pakistan and PoK, at Pampore in Pulwama district. PTI

Why did India name the strikes Operation Sindoor?

Top sources within the government have now revealed that Indias military strike on terror camps in Pakistan and PoK in the wee hours of Wednesday was given the title Operation Sindoor personally by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The name was given keeping in mind the widows of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

Sources told India Today that the prime minister was very clear about the human cost of the terror attack. In fact, PM Modi closely supervised the mission, which unfolded amid rising diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

It is reported that at the high-level meetings held over the past week, PM Modi emphasised that Indian men had been deliberately targeted, leaving behind widowed women and broken families. He also told officials that the response to the Pahalgam attack has to show that India would not let this go.

After all, who can forget the daunting images from the Pahalgam terror attack; the one of Himanshi Narwal, a newly-married woman with her wedding chooda still on her hands, beside the body of Indian Navy officer Lieutenant Vinay Narwal.

And following Operation Sindoor, many of the women who were victims of the Pahalgam attack hailed the governments response. Pragati Jagdale, whose husband Santosh was one of the 26 people killed in the Pahalgam terrorist attack, said it was a fitting tribute to the victims.

Through Operation Sindoor, a tribute has been paid to those who were killed in the Pahalgam attack. I am thankful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for carrying out Operation Sindoor. I am thankful that our emotions have been understood. Our sindoor was wiped out by terrorists but today I am very happy that under Operation Sindoor, our armed forces destroyed terrorists bases in Pakistan, said Jagdale.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The wife of Shubham Dwivedi, who was also killed in the Pahalgam attack, echoed similar sentiments. I want to thank PM Modi for taking revenge for my husbands death. My entire family had trust in him, and the way he replied (to Pakistan), he has kept our trust alive. This is the real tribute to my husband. Wherever my husband is, he will be at peace today, said Ashanya Dwivedi.

In Pune, Sangita Ganbote, the wife of Kaustubh Ganbote, said the government has respected those who lost their husbands by naming the counterstrike Operation Sindoor. I cannot forget that day. I cry every day. We were waiting for Prime Minister Modi to take such action, and he has given them a befitting reply. Terrorists should be eliminated, she was quoted as saying.

Rashtriya Bajrang Dal workers celebrate after Indian Armed Forces carried out missile strikes on terror targets in Pakistan and PoK under Operation Sindoor, in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack, in Jammu. PTI

How did Operation Sindoor take place?

In the early hours of Wednesday, India launched the combined tri-series operation. The Indian Army, Navy and Air Force conducted precision strikes using loitering munitions at 1.44 am on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir in response.

A total of nine sites were hit during Operation Sindoor  four in Pakistan and five in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The targets in Pakistan included Bahawalpur, Muridke and Sialkot  all having links to terror groups, the Lashkar-e-Taiba, the Jaish-e-Mohammed and Hizbul Mujahideen.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

India after the attack issued a statement saying, Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution.

These steps come in the wake of the barbaric Pahalgam terrorist attack in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were murdered. We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable.

Following Operation Sindoor, Pakistan retaliated with cross-border firing and artillery shelling at Indian villages along the Line of Control, killing three civilians.

It is left to be seen what happens next  but as of now India has given Pakistan a befitting reply.

With inputs from agencies
India has conducted at least ten major military operations in response to aggression or terrorism emanating from Pakistan, including Operation Trident (1971), Operation Vijay (1999), Operation Bandar (2019) and most recently, Operation Sindoor (2025). These have involved air, land and naval assets and reflect a steady evolution toward high-precision, targeted counterforce strategies read more

A Pakistan Army soldier stands in front of damaged building after it was hit by an Indian strike in Muzaffarabad, in PoK on May 7. Reuters

In the early hours of May 7, 2025, India launched Operation Sindoor, a coordinated military strike targeting terror infrastructure deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

This tri-services mission  executed by the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy  was the most extensive cross-border precision strike conducted by India since the Balakot airstrikes in 2019.

The operation was Indias direct military response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in which 26 civilians were killed, including a serving Indian Navy officer and a Nepali national.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The attackers were reportedly linked to the Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

Operation Sindoor was notable for its use of advanced long-range precision munitions, including the SCALP air-launched cruise missile, HAMMER guided bombs and loitering munitions.

The operation was reportedly launched after high-level security consultations and was monitored in real time by top military and political leadership.

India and Pakistan have fought four full-fledged wars and numerous skirmishes, standoffs and proxy confrontations since 1947.

In response to direct military threats and cross-border terrorism, India has launched a series of military operations over the decades, the most recent among them  Operation Sindoor  highlights Indias evolving doctrine of precision and strategic restraint.

We take a look at a few of the major Indian military operations conducted against Pakistan since independence:

Indo-Pak War of 194748 (First Kashmir War)

Operation Gulmarg (194748)  by Pakistan

Indias first military response to Pakistani aggression came shortly after independence when tribal militias and Pakistani regulars infiltrated Jammu and Kashmir in October 1947.

Codenamed Operation Gulmarg by Pakistan, this incursion prompted India to launch a military airlift of troops to Srinagar on October 27, 1947.

The ensuing conflict lasted until 1948 and ended with a UN-brokered ceasefire in January 1949. India retained about two-thirds of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan occupied the rest (now PoK).

Indo-Pak War of 1965

Operation Riddle (1965)

Operation Riddle was the Indian Navys codename for its operations during the Indo-Pak War of 1965.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Tasked primarily with the defence of Indias western coast, the operation involved naval deployments to deter Pakistani aggression. Although no major offensive was launched, this operation led to a strategic reassessment, resulting in a more assertive naval doctrine in subsequent years.

Operation Blaze (1965)

Conducted in August 1965, just prior to the full-scale war, Operation Blaze was a limited strike by Indian forces in the Kargil sector in response to Pakistani artillery shelling.

Indian troops successfully engaged and silenced Pakistani forward posts, establishing tactical dominance in parts of Ladakh. This action served as a prelude to the broader conflict that followed.

Pakistani codenames during Indo-Pak War of 1965

Operation Gibraltar: Infiltration by Pakistani soldiers disguised as locals to incite rebellion in Kashmir.

Operation Grand Slam: An attempt to capture the Akhnoor region to cut off Jammu.

The outcome was a stalemate with high casualties on both sides. It ended with the Tashkent Agreement (1966) mediated by the Soviet Union.

Indo-Pak War of 1971

Operation Cactus Lily (1971)

During the Indo-Pak war of 1971, which led to the creation of Bangladesh, the Indian Army launched Operation Cactus Lily on the western front. It complemented Operation Trident and Operation Python, which were major naval offensives. India successfully contained Pakistani advances in the west.

Operation Trident (1971)

Launched on December 4, 1971, Operation Trident was a surprise naval attack on the Karachi port by the Indian Navy. It marked the first time anti-ship missiles were used in combat in the region. Pakistani fuel reserves and naval assets were heavily damaged. December 4 is now Navy Day.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Operation Python (1971)

A follow-up to Operation Trident, Operation Python was executed on December 8, 1971, targeting remaining Pakistani naval facilities in Karachi. The operation further crippled Pakistans maritime logistics and is remembered for its precision.

The outcome of the war led to the creation of Bangladesh. Pakistan suffered a humiliating defeat, with over 90,000 troops surrendering.

Operation Meghdoot (1984)

Although not directly a strike on Pakistan, Operation Meghdoot involved the Indian Armys preemptive occupation of the Siachen Glacier in April 1984, before Pakistan could assert control.

Indian army soldiers muster at the base camp after coming back from training at Siachen Glacier, October 4, 2003. File Image/Reuters

It remains the worlds highest battlefield and a strategic stronghold. India gained control of Siachen, which it continues to hold.

Kargil War (1999)

Operation Vijay

Following the Pakistani Armys incursion into Indian territory in Kargil, Ladakh, India launched Operation Vijay in May 1999.

The Indian Army, with significant air support (under Operation Safed Sagar), successfully evicted infiltrators. It remains one of the most intense high-altitude warfare operations.

India recaptured key peaks and ridges. Over 500 Indian soldiers and an estimated 400-3,000 Pakistani soldiers reportedly died.

It was the first televised war in India and it also helped elevated the profile of the Indian armed forces.

Under Operation Safed Sagar, IAFs codename for air operations during Kargil conflict. It deployed Mirage-2000 jets to precision bomb enemy posts.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Operation Parakram (20012002)

Following the 2001 Indian Parliament attack, India launched Operation Parakram, a massive mobilisation of troops along the Pakistan border.

Although it stopped short of full-scale war, the 10-month-long standoff was one of the largest deployments since 1971.

Surgical strikes (2016)  Operation X

In response to the Uri terror attack where 19 Indian soldiers were killed, India conducted surgical strikes across the Line of Control on September 29, 2016, targeting launch pads used by Pakistan-based terrorists.

While unofficially referred to as Operation X by media, the operation showcased Indias new doctrine of cross-border, targeted retaliation.

Paratroopers from the Indian Armed Forces crossed the LoC and struck targets within PoK.

Balakot Air Strikes (2019)  Operation Bandar

After the Pulwama terror attack, India carried out an airstrike deep inside Pakistan in Balakot on February 26, 2019.

Codenamed Operation Bandar, it marked the first airstrike across the international border since 1971 and was aimed at a Jaish-e-Mohammed training facility.

It was a response to Pulwama suicide bombing that killed 40 CRPF personnel. The objective was airstrikes on Jaish-e-Mohammed training camps in Balakot, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Mirage 2000 aircraft dropped precision-guided munitions on the targets. The strike marked Indias first air incursion into Pakistani territory since 1971.

Pakistan responded with an aerial skirmish on February 27, leading to IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthamans capture and return.

Indias military operations against Pakistan reflect a transition from conventional wars to precision-strike and hybrid doctrines.

From large-scale wars in 1947, 1965 and 1971, to targeted strikes like Operation Bandar and Operation Sindoor, the trajectory shows how Indias counter-terrorism and deterrence strategies are evolving.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

With Operation Sindoor, India has reaffirmed its ability to conduct tri-service precision operations while managing escalation.

With inputs from agencies
On May 7, India struck at several targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in Operation Sindoor as retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack. Islamabad has called the strikes an act of war and said that it has every right to give a befitting reply. But what do we know about Islamabads different missile systems? How far can they travel into India? read more

Pakistans longest range missile is the Shaheen-III  which has an estimated range of 2,750 kilometres.

Tensions are rising between India and Pakistan.

On May 7, India struck at several targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in Operation Sindoor as retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack.

Pakistan has called the strikes an act of war and said that it has every right to give a befitting reply.

Pakistan in a statement said, The Armed Forces of Pakistan have duly been authorised to undertake corresponding actions in this regard.

Many are now wondering if Pakistan intends to attack India with missiles.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

But what missiles does Pakistan have? How far can they travel?

Lets take a closer look:

What missiles does Pakistan have?

As per ArmsControl.org, while Pakistan has short- and medium-range ballistic missiles, it does not have a long-range ballistic missile system.

The latter are those that have a range of over 3,500 kilometres. They are used to deliver nuclear weapons.

Pakistans longest range missile is the Shaheen-III  which was tested in 2015 and which has an estimated range of 2,750 kilometres.

As per Bloomberg, this means that the Shaheen III can reach every part of India including Mumbai and Delhi.

Catch all the live updates from here

Its Shaheen II missile has a range of 1,500 to 2,000 kilometres while the Shaheen 1 has a range of 750 to 900 kilometres.

Pakistans Shaheen-II is a medium range ballistic missile. PTI

As per ArmsControl.org, Pakistan is currently working on the Ababeel medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM).

The system is thought to have a range of around 2,200 kilometres.

It is also estimated to have multiple independently targetable reentry vehicle (MIRV) capabilities.

As per The Bulletin, Pakistans Ghauri missile is a nuclear-capable medium-range ballistic weapon.

The Pakistan government estimates Ghauris range at 1,300 kilometres.

Pakistan also has the Babur cruise missile.

This weapon system has a range of 700 kilometres.

It flies low to avoid radar and is pinpoint accurate.

As per The Times of India, Pakistan also has the nuclear-capable Abdali weapon system.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

This ballistic missile has a range of 450 kilometres.

It is based on the Hatf-II Abdali missile  a short-range ballistic missile (SRBM).

This handout photograph released by the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) on February 15, 2013, shows a Pakistani short range surface to surface Ballistic Missile Hatf II (Abdali) launched from an undisclosed location. File Photo/AFP

Named after 18th Century Afghan ruler Ahmad Shah Abdali, it can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads.

Designed for tactical use on the battlefield, Pakistan has mused about using it as a quick strike option against India.

Pakistan tested the Abdali missile over the weekend.

The launch was aimed at ensuring the operational readiness of troops and validating key technical parameters, including the missiles advanced navigation system and enhanced manoeuvrability features, the government said as per NDTV.

As per Newsweek, Pakistan also has the Raad air-launched cruise missiles (ALCM).

These cruise missiles can deliver nuclear and conventional warheads with great accuracy, as per the Inter-Services Public Relations.

The Raad cruise missiles have a range of 350 kilometers and complement[s] Pakistans deterrence capability by achieving strategic standoff capability on land and at sea.

Pakistans Raad II missiles, which were first tested in February 2020, can reach a target of up to 600 kilometres.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Pakistans Fatah series surface-to-surface missile has a range of 120 kilometres, as per The Times of India.

_A_s per Moneycontrol, this rocket is relatively new to the ranks of Pakistans missiles.

It is likely an updated version of China or North Koreas rocket systems  likely the WS-2/3 or KN-09 MLRS model.

A Pakistani army soldier stands atop a military vehicle carrying Fatah missile (Guided Multi Launch Rocket System) during the Pakistan Day parade in Islamabad on March 23, 2022. File Photo/AFP

As per The Diplomat, the Fatah-II missile has a range of 400 kilometres.

It can hit targets with pointpoint accuracy  including the Russian-made S-400 Triumf missile systems owned by India.

The Fatah-II rocket can hold a 365-kilo warhead.

It has a navigation system, unique trajectory, and is maneuverable  all of which allow it to hit targets with high precision and sidestep missile defence systems.

Pakistan also tested the Fatah missile over the weekend as part of exercise INDUS  a reference to the Indus Waters Treaty.

Islamabad said the test-firing was done to check key technical parameters and for operational readiness of troops

Pakistan also has the Nasr  which is a Short-Range Ballistic Missile (SRBM).

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

While this weapon has a range of about 70 kilometres, what makes it deadly is that it is nuclear capable.

Essentially, it can be used on the battlefield against Indian troops.

Islamabad views the Nasr as a counter against Indias Cold Start doctrine.

Pakistan also has the Exocet anti-shipping cruise missile  which has a range of around 180 kilometres.

Its Ghaznavi short-range ballistic missile (SRBM) is thought to have a range of around 290 kilometres.

Pakistan as a nuclear power and what experts say

Now, lets take a look at Pakistan as a nuclear power.

Pakistan became a nuclear power in 1998  the same year as India conducted its Pokhran II nuclear tests.

Pakistan has around 170 warheads  approximately the same as India.

As per Newsweek, experts say Pakistans nuclear arsenal could grow to 200 by 2025.

However, unlike India, Pakistan has no no first-use policy, which means it could resort to a nuclear strike if it feels cornered.

That India has an advantage over Pakistan when it comes to air warfare due to geography.

John Erath, senior policy director at the nonprofit Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation, told Newsweek this is because Pakistans population centers are in reach of Indian aircraft and ballistic missiles.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

India and Pakistan have been regional rivals since they got their independence, so the the idea of border clashes and tension that could lead to military action is never not there, Erath said. It goes and it comes a little bit as to the seriousness. The last time we saw things like what are going on now was in 2019, when there were shots fired over the border and there was an Indian strike on a Pakistani facility that they said was training terrorists.

After the Pahalgam terror attack, tempers are high between India and Pakistan with the possibility of a military confrontation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. Shutterstock

I would take that as something of a model and expect that if the Indians feel that they have to take some kind of action in response to this massacre, they would do something like thatstrike a Pakistani facility or what they believe is a training facility or one of these militant groups.

Pakistan is definitely in an inferior position, Erath added. They have a smaller country, a smaller military, fewer resources, but they know what theyre up against and they they have ideas about how to stop it, including as a last resort the use of nuclear weapons.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

If one side or the other were to make a major military incursion, as we see in Ukraine, that sort of thing is very difficult to do. It requires tremendous logistics, tremendous resources and tremendous expense, and neither side really want to take that on unless they feel that they have no other option. The best that both sides and the rest of the world can do now is to urge restraint and look for what the off-ramp is going to be.

Experts have also flagged Pakistans missile development as a menace  and not just to India.

Newsweek quoted ex-US Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer as calling Pakistan an emerging threat to the United States.

Finer claimed Pakistan is pursuing increasingly sophisticated missile technology and large rocket motors that could eventually strike targets well beyond South Asia, including the United States.

As per ArmsControl.org, US officials have said Pakistan developing a long-range missle remains several years to a decade away.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The officials said that while Washington suggested Islamabad address its concerns by sharing information on missile testing and setting limits on the outer range, Pakistan rejected such notions.

Washington this year sanctioned commercial firms in Belarus, China, and Pakistan that have supplied missile-applicable items to Pakistans ballistic missile program, including its long-range missile program.

As per The Times of India, Islamabad slammed the sanctions as discriminatory and called its missile programme defensive in nature.
India carried out precision strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) early Wednesday, avenging the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that took 26 lives, mostly of tourists. As many as 21 terror camps and training facilities across nine locations were hit. Operation Sindoor matters beyond the Baisaran massacre. Heres how read more

Local residents stand outside a mosque of an Islamic seminary partially damaged by an Indian missile attack, outskirts of Bahawalpur, Pakistan, May 7, 2025. AP

India has avenged the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack by launching overnight missile strikes on nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Dubbed Operation Sindoor, the targeted sites included the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) headquarters in Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taibas (LeT) Markaz Taiba in Muridke.

With its precision strikes, India has taken revenge for not just the Pahalgam massacre but also other terror attacks by Pakistan-based outfits that stunned the country. By targeting only terror camps in Pakistan and PoK, New Delhi has sent a message of restraint while bringing perpetrators to justice.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Lets take a closer look.

Pahalgam attack

Two weeks after the Pahalgam terror attack, India struck at the heart of terror in Pakistan and PoK.

While media reports say dozens of terrorists have been killed, there is no official confirmation yet.

On April 22, male tourists were separated from women and children in the Baisaran meadow in south Kashmir and killed by the terrorists. They were targeted on the basis of their religion. As many as 26 people, mostly tourists, including a Nepali national, and a Kashmiri local, were killed in the terror attack.

The Resistance Front, an offshoot of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), claimed responsibility for the attack.

India blamed Pakistan, which denied the charges.

After the terror attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi vowed to identify, track and punish every terrorist and their backers.

We will pursue them to the ends of the Earth, he said, a promise that has been fulfilled by the Indian armed forces.

Pulwama attack

India carried out strikes at 21 terror camps and training facilities across nine locations in both Pakistan and PoK.

The targets were chosen so as not to just take revenge for the Pahalgam attack but also hit sites where other attacks on India were planned.

The biggest hit was at Markaz Subhan Allah, the headquarters of the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), in Bahawalpur.

JeM chief Maulana Masood Azhars 10 family members and four close aides were killed as Indian strikes targeted the terror groups headquarters in the city in Pakistans Punjab, reported PTI.

The markaz, which means headquarters, served as a site for planning terrorist activity, including the 2019 Pulwama attack.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

On February 14, 2019, an IED-laden vehicle driven by a JeM suicide bomber rammed his vehicle into a bus with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy at Lethpora in Pulwama. Over 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives.

This markaz also consists of residences of Azhar, Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar, Maulana Ammar and other family members.

Catch live updates on .

Pathankot attack

In 2016, Jaish members carried out an attack at the Indian Air Force (IAF) base in Punjabs Pathankot, killing six security personnel.

On early Wednesday (May 7), India fired missiles at the JeM facility in Tehra Kalan village of Sarjal area in Pakistans Punjab. The centre acts as the main launching site of the terror group for the infiltration of terrorists into J&K.

The facility is just six km from the International Border (IB) in the Samba sector of Jammu. As per ThePrint report, Pakistans spy agency  the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI)  and JeM have built underground tunnels in the Shakargarh area, which are used to send terrorists into India.

During the press briefing on Wednesday after Operation Sindoor, Lt Colonel Sophia Qureshi said this site was targeted as it was linked to the 2016 Pathankot attack.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Ali Kashif Jan, the Pakistani handler of the 2016 Pathankot airbase terror attack, operated out of the Sarjal facility.

2008 Mumbai terror attacks

Markaz Taiba is reportedly the headquarters of Hafiz Saeeds terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Located in Nangal Sahdan, Muridke, the complex spans 82 acres and includes arms and physical training facilities.

The centre has links to Osama Bin Laden, who provided funds for building a mosque and a guest house within this complex in 2000.

Rescuers search for survivors in a damaged building after it was hit by an Indian strike in Muridke near Lahore, Pakistan, May 7, 2025. Reuters

Perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, including Ajmal Kasab, received Daura-e-Ribbat (intelligence training) at this facility.

David Coleman Headley and Tahawwur Hussain Rana, the plotters of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, along with co-conspirators Abdul Rehman Sayed, Haroon and Khurram, had visited Muridke, sources told ThePrint.

Hafiz Saeed and other LeT terrorists like Zaki Ur Rehman Lakhvi have residences in this facility.

With inputs from agencies
Indias Operation Sindoor featured the first operational use of Scalp cruise missiles and Hammer precision bombs, alongside loitering munitions, in a coordinated strike on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and the PoK. These high-precision, long-range weapons signal Indias evolving military doctrine focused on rapid, deep-targeted retaliation with minimal collateral damage read more

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, along with Colonel Sophia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, holds a press briefing following India's military strikes on Pakistan, in New Delhi, India, May 7, 2025. File Image/Reuters

In the early hours of Wednesday (May 7, 2025), India launched Operation Sindoor, its most expansive cross-border military operation since the 2019 Balakot airstrikes.

Conducted in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians, the mission targeted terror infrastructure across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Notably, the operation showcased Indias growing precision-strike capabilities, prominently featuring the SCALP cruise missile, the HAMMER precision-guided bomb, and loitering munitions.

These high-precision weapons  some of the most advanced in Indias arsenal  highlight the countrys shift toward long-range, low-collateral strikes in counter-terrorism operations.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

All about SCALP cruise missiles

The SCALP (Systeme de Croisiere Autonome a Longue Portee) missile  also known as Storm Shadow in the UK  is a long-range, air-launched cruise missile developed jointly by MBDA France and the UK.

It is designed to penetrate deep into enemy territory and deliver precision strikes against high-value, well-defended targets.

Key features:

Range : Over 500 km.

Warhead : BROACH multi-effect, capable of penetrating hardened targets like bunkers and underground facilities.

Navigation : GPS/INS guidance with terrain referencing and target recognition, enabling extreme accuracy.

Launch platform: India integrates SCALP with the Rafale fighter jets, which are currently operated by the Indian Air Force.

SCALP missiles were used extensively by the UK and France in conflicts including Libya (2011) and Syria (2018). They are known known for their effectiveness in neutralising strategic targets with minimal collateral damage.

Air-launched long-range Storm Shadow/SCALP cruise missile, manufactured by MBDA, pictured at the 54th International Paris Air Show at Le Bourget Airport near Paris, France, June 20, 2023. File Image/Reuters

In Operation Sindoor, SCALP missiles were reportedly launched from Indian Rafale jets to strike deep-terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK. Their use allowed Indian forces to hit targets well beyond the Line of Control (LoC) while minimising the risk to pilots and aircraft.

This marks the first publicly acknowledged use of SCALP missiles in an operational setting by India.

All about HAMMER bombs

HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range), or Armement Air-Sol Modulable (AASM), is a precision-guided bomb developed by Frances Safran Electronics & Defense.

It combines conventional bombs with GPS, INS and infrared/semi-active laser guidance kits.

Key features:

Range : 1570 km depending on variant and altitude of release.

Modularity : Can be fitted with 125 kg, 250 kg, 500 kg or 1000 kg bombs.

Guidance : GPS/INS as baseline, with optional infrared or laser homing for terminal accuracy.

Launch platform: Also integrated into the Rafale aircraft.

The HAMMER bombs have been proven in French air operations in Afghanistan, Mali and West Asia. They are known for high accuracy in urban or mountainous terrain.

The AASM are French, all-weather, smart air-to-surface stand-off weapon developed by Safran Electronics & Defense. File Image/Wikipedia-Killersurprise64

According to defence sources, HAMMER bombs were deployed for mid-range targets where collateral damage risk was high.

The bombs allowed Indian pilots to strike precisely, even in challenging terrain like valleys and urban-adjacent areas in PoK.

India had acquired HAMMER bombs in emergency deals in 2020 to arm Rafale jets during the Ladakh border tensions.

What are loitering munitions?

Loitering munitions, also called kamikaze drones, are UAVs designed to hover over a target area before striking. These munitions provide a real-time strike capability with flexibility to abort or redirect after launch.

Key features:

Autonomous target selection (in some variants) or operator-controlled strike.

Endurance : Typically 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Precision : Can hit moving or hidden targets with high accuracy.

Stealth: Small size and low radar signature.

India has procured various loitering munitions, including the IAI Harop from Israel and indigenous variants like ALS-50 from Tata Advanced Systems.

Indian security force personnel stand guard in Wuyan, Pulwama, in Kashmir, India, May 7, 2025. File Image/Reuters

Loitering munitions were reportedly used to destroy small, high-value, time-sensitive targets such as moving vehicles, temporary safe houses or command posts. These systems provided real-time battlefield flexibility and reduced the need for follow-up strikes.

What message does use of these weapons send

The deployment of SCALP, HAMMER and loitering munitions in Operation Sindoor reflects a tactical evolution in Indian military doctrine. Rather than large-scale bombing or conventional troop engagements, the focus is now on precision strikes with minimal collateral damage, stand-off capabilities while keeping assets outside enemy air defence zones and layered strike options for fixed, mobile and fortified targets.

The Indian Ministry of Defence reiterated this in a press release, saying, Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution.

Also Watch:

These weapons give India the ability to deliver quick, targeted responses that are legally defensible, politically calibrated and militarily effective.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The combination of deep-strike and tactical weapons allows the Indian military to retaliate swiftly and effectively against terror threats while keeping escalation in check.

With inputs from agencies
Be it 2016 in Uri or 2019 in Balakot, there has been no shortage of responses from India to terror attacks from Pakistan. However, Operation Sindoor is different from any strikes India has previously carried out. But why is this? And what do experts say? Lets take a closer look read more

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri addresses a press conference regarding 'Operation Sindoor', in New Delhi. PTI

India has carried out surgical strikes against Pakistan before.

Be it 2016 in Uri or 2019 in Balakot, there has been no shortage of responses from India to attacks from Pakistan.

However, Operation Sindoor is unlike any other previous strikes against Pakistan.

But why is this? What makes Operation Sindoor different?

Lets take a closer look:

Wide-ranging response

The Times of India noted that the 2019 Balakot strikes and the 2016 Uri attacks were essentially a limited action.

However, as NDTV noted, Operation Sindoor is a wide-ranging response.

The strike hit nine separate locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) including Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Bahawalpur, Rawalakot, Chakswari, Bhimber, Neelum Valley, Jhelum, and Chakwal.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

India hit Pakistan with 24 missile strikes  the most it has ever launched in a single-day action.

Follow all updates on Operation Sindoor LIVE here

Compare this to Balakot when India hit just one target  a Jaish-E-Mohammed terror training camp in Khyber Pakhtunwa province in Pakistan.

Sindoor also struck deep into Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied territory.

In this screenshot from @MEAIndia via Youtube on May 7, 2025, Visual of an area in Kotli Abbas being targeted as part of Operation Sindoor, displayed during a press conference, in New Delhi. PTI

The sheer scale of militant loss sent a strong message to terrorist networks and their handlers. India now reserves the right to strike pre-emptively, and no location is beyond reach, a government source told the outlet.

The idea behind Operation Sindoor was to shake the foundation of terror coming from Pakistan.

Over 70 militants were reported killed, and more than 60 others were injured during the coordinated assault, the source added.

Moneycontrol noted that New Delhi has widened its range of possible targets in Pakistan and Pakistani-occupied territory  letting Islamabad know that potentially no location is safe.

As security analyst Aadil Mir told ANI, India has crossed two significant thresholds striking multiple sites and targeting Pakistans heartland. This goes far beyond 2019.

Weapons systems used

As per NDTV, all three services  Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force  were involved in Operation Sindoor.

A number of weapons including SCALP (Storm Shadow) missiles which have a range of over 250 kilometres, Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range (Hammer) precision bombs and loitering munitions were used.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Air-launched long-range Storm Shadow/SCALP cruise missile, manufactured by MBDA, pictured at the 54th International Paris Air Show at Le Bourget Airport near Paris, France, June 20, 2023. File Image/Reuters

Within less than an hour, all missiles had struck their designated targets. The strikes were synchronised to avoid detection and maximise the element of surprise. Real-time footage from UAVs confirmed the destruction of target facilities. The decision to target deep into Pakistani-administered territory was a departure from prior doctrine and marked a new level of strategic assertiveness, a government source said.

New red line?

Moneycontrol noted that the operation is an indication that India is shifting its red line against Pakistan.

A piece in The Times of India stated that the strikes had put Pakistan on notice about the escalating price of terror from across the border.

In this screenshot from @MEAIndia via Youtube on May 7, 2025, Visual of an area in Sarjal being targeted as part of Operation Sindoor, displayed during a press conference, in New Delhi. PTI

It noted that India also focussed on terror infrastructure rather than military installations  thus avoiding increasing tensions further.

The outlet quoted Brigadier Hemant Mahajan (Retd) as saying, This was a world-class, precision strike. The Armed Forces must be complimented. We hit them when they least expected it - and hit them hard.

Different name, different mindset

As per Indian Express, the defence establishment has also indicated a change in mindset with its choice of the name of the operation.

Rather than seek to play up Indias military firepower, the establishment instead decided to honour the Pahalgam terror attack victims.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Army officer Colonel Sofiya Qureshi addresses a press conference regarding Operation Sindoor, in New Delhi. PTI

Sources said Prime Minister Narendra Modi chose the name of the operation.

India previously used the following names  Operation Riddle, Operation Ablaze, Operation Cactus-Lily, Operation Trident, Operation Python, Operation Meghdoot, Operation Vijay, Operation Safed Sagar, and Operation Bandar during conflicts with Pakistan.

The choice was a tribute to those who lost their husbands in the Pahalgam attack which left 26 dead.

With inputs from agencies
Indias briefing about the response to the Pahalgam attack, Operation Sindoor, involved two women military officers, one of them a Muslim from Kashmir. The message was not lost on anyone. read more

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri is joined by Colonel Sofiya Qureshi of the Indian Army and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh of the Indian Air Force in the media briefing for Operation Sindoor, the Indian military action targeting terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK) in response to the Pahalgam attack on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. (Photo: Press Information Bureau)

There was a message in Indias media briefing for Operation Sindoor.

India said it struck nine terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK) in the early hours of Wednesday in response to the Pahalgam attack. The military action was codenamed Operation Sindoor.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri was joined in the media briefing by two women officers: Colonel Sofiya Qureshi of the Indian Army and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh of the Indian Air Force.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

That two women led Indias briefing on the countrys response to Pahalgam attack, with one of them Qureshi a Muslim from Kashmir, was not lost on anyone.

The codename, Operation Sindoor, was chosen by Prime Minister Narendra Modi because of its cultural significance and the nature of the Pahalgam attack. In Hindu culture, sindoor refers to the vermilion that many women wear as a signifier of their marriage.

In the Pahalgam attack, and shot dead in front of their wives and children by terrorists. The codename and the briefing by two women officers, one of them a Kashmiri, are Indias messages to the world and a symbolism not lost on anyone.

Operation Sindoor was launched to give justice to victims of heinous Pahalgam terrorist attack on April 22. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and completely destroyed. For three decades, terror infrastructure has prospered in Pakistan that includes recruitment and indoctrination centres, training areas, and launchpads. These centres are spread over both Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK), said Qureshi in the briefing.

#WATCH | #OperationSindoor, Col. Sofiya Qureshi says, "Operation Sindoor was launched to give justice to victims of Pahalgam terrorist attack. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and destroyed." pic.twitter.com/8nbLHN6a3k  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Singh said that targets were selected such that the collateral damage to civilians is minimised.

The selection of locations was based on credible intelligence inputs and the role of these facilities in perpetrating terror activity. The locations were so selected to avoid the damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives, said Singh.

In the briefing, the government shared the targets that India struck inside Pakistan and POJK.

The graphic by Press Information Bureau shows terrorist sites struck by India in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

On his part, Foreign Secretary Misri said that India conducted airstrikes after no action was taken by Pakistan against terrorists on its soil in a fortnight. He said that airstrikes were a pre-emptive action to prevent impending attacks on India from Pakistan-based groups.

Despite a fortnight having passed since the attacks, there has been no demonstrable step from Pakistan to take action against the terrorist infrastructure on its territory or on territory under its control. Instead, all it has indulged in are denials and allegations. Our intelligence monitoring of Pakistan-based terrorist modules indicated that further attacks against India were impending. There was thus a compulsion both to deter and to pre-empt, said Misri.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

As in the initial statement, Misri reiterated that India exercised restraint in the strikes and did not strike any military facility.

These actions were measured, non-escalatory, proportionate, and responsible. They focused on dismantling the terrorist infrastructure and disabling terrorists likely to be sent across to India, said Misri.
India has identified additional terror hubs and is prepared to deliver a befitting reply if Pakistan chooses to retaliate, according to a report, citing top government sources read more

The rubble of a building damaged by Indian missile attack, is seen in Muridke, a town in Pakistan's Punjab province, on Wednesday. AP

India on Wednesday warned Pakistan to behave or get punished hours after precision strikes at nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor killed several terrorists.

According to a News18 report citing top government sources, India has identified additional terror hubs and is prepared to deliver a befitting reply if Pakistan chooses to retaliate.

India is not scared to continue its fight against terror. India is willing to teach Pakistan a lesson yet again, News 18 quoted the sources as saying.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Behave well or get punished, they added.

In direct message to Pakistan, the sources said there will be no leniency on the non-military front.

If there is any retaliatory action from Pakistan, India will give a befitting reply, they said.

Early on Wednesday, Indian armed forces destroyed nine terrorist infrastructure including that of Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in a 25-minute-long measured and non-escalatory missile and drone strike to avenge dastardly terror attack in Pahalgam.

Under Operation Sindoor, the Indian military targeted Markaz Taiba of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in Muridke, Markaz Subhan Allah of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in Bahawalpur and Hizbul Mujahideens Mehmoona Joya Facility in Sialkot and LeTs base in Markaz Ahle Hadith in Barnala and its camp in Muzaffarabads Shawai Nalla.

The operation was conducted from 1:05 am to 1:30 am and all the targets were neutralised with clinical efficiency.

With inputs from agencies
Speaking to Network 18s Managing Editor Palki Sharma, Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar on Wednesday said that the international community should not merely condemn terrorism but also take stronger and more coordinated action against it read more

Hours after Indian armed forces destroyed nine terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in a 25-minute-long operation, Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar on Wednesday said that the international community should not merely condemn terrorism but also take stronger and more coordinated action against it.

Speaking to Network 18s Managing Editor Palki Sharma, Azar said its dangerous to contextualise acts of terrorism and called for a more proactive stance to pursue those who are committing these crimes.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

I think that the international community should do more not only to condemn, to act against terrorism and there are many ways in which countries in the world can act against terrorism. They can pursue those who are committing these crimes, he said.

They can prevent the proliferation of dangerous weapons. They can act in order to impede the dissemination of radical content in social media, in the electronic media. They can play a role in isolating radical elements, he added.

Azar stressed the importance of isolating extremist elements and bolstering moderate policies globally.

There are many things that we can do as states in the world and as much as we fail doing it, terrorism flourishes, he added.

On Indias precision operation, the first-of-its-kind conducted without crossing the Line of Control LoC, Azar described it as a clear demonstration of the countrys advancing defence capabilities and strategic maturity.

Well, this is not an easy challenge because these terrorists are becoming more and more violent and they commit more and more atrocities and there is no easy way to deter them. They are breaking any rule in the book, any norm of humanity and we, as democracies, we keep our standards, we keep our values and we are fighting this war with one hand tied behind our back, he said.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Azar acknowledged the complex decisions faced by Indian leadership and praised their commitment to preventing future attacks.

I dont envy the Indian government and the Indian decision makers and the security forces in their calculations, in the risk-taking, in the decisions to operate based on intelligence to achieve an efficient result and make sure that these terrible attacks dont happen again. Its a challenge and I trust the Indian government to meet the challenge. Theres a military war and theres a narrative war and Israel has fought both for years, he added.

When asked about a flood of fake news being peddled from all kinds of handles and about those who are amplifying Pakistans narrative, Azar said it is extremely dangerous to contextualise terrorism or justify acts of violence.

Terrorism has to be condemned and has to be fought against and theres nothing that can justify the murder of innocent lives and whoever justifies that I think is committing a major mistake not only morally but also tactically because this will come back to them. Terror knows no boundaries and when you start justifying terrorism or contextualising terrorism and you refrain from taking action against terrorism, you will be hit by terrorism, said the ambassador.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Addressing the role of countries that have backed terrorist actors, Azar said countries should be very careful not only when it comes to meddling in other conflicts but also with ignoring the difference between legitimate conflicts and illegitimate measures that are being taken in the context of the conflict.

Because as much as you can have a cause, whether it is just or unjust, when you use terrorism and you kill innocent civilians in such an atrocious way, there is no room for any country to support such acts. And therefore, we have criticism when it comes to the support that Turkey has been given Hamas and, of course, that when they support other terrorist organisations, there is something that we look at in a very negative way, he added.

When asked whether Israel played any role in intelligence gathering or surveillance ahead of Indias operation, Azar clarified that while the two countries maintain strong security cooperation, Israel does not intervene in Indias operational matters.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Israel and India cooperate broadly on security-related matters. We support each other in developing capabilities and sharing expertise, he said. However, we do not interfere in each others conflicts.

Pressed further on any specific intelligence-sharing related to the operation, Azar said, In the context of this particular conflict, I am not aware of any specific cooperation. Our relationship is built on mutual respect as democracies facing similar threats, and each government is responsible for making decisions based on its own unique circumstances.

Early on Wednesday, Indian armed forces destroyed nine terrorist infrastructure including that of Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in a 25-minute-long measured and non-escalatory missile and drone strike to avenge dastardly terror attack in Pahalgam.

Under Operation Sindoor, the Indian military targeted Markaz Taiba of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in Muridke, Markaz Subhan Allah of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in Bahawalpur and Hizbul Mujahideens Mehmoona Joya Facility in Sialkot and LeTs base in Markaz Ahle Hadith in Barnala and its camp in Muzaffarabads Shawai Nalla.

The operation was conducted from 1:05 am to 1:30 am and all the targets were neutralised with clinical efficiency.

With inputs from agencies
Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Wednesday briefed 13 foreign envoys in the national capital, giving a detailed account of the recent escalation along the Line of Control and Indias measured military response to avenge Pahalgam terror attack read more

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Wednesday briefed 13 foreign envoys in the national capital, giving a detailed account of the recent escalation along the Line of Control and Indias measured military response to avenge Pahalgam terror attack.

According to a News18 report, four key points were highlighted during the briefing: the recent escalation by Pakistan, its continued shielding of The Resistance Front (TRF), the fact that Indias response was targeted, measured, and non-escalatory, and how Pahalgam terror attack was a barbaric attack.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Misri also made it clear that if Pakistan retaliates to Indias early morning strikes, India will respond in equal measure.

One of the envoys raised a question about whether the recent developments amounted to an escalation by India, to which the India responded that the action was a direct response to Pahalgam terror attack and should not be viewed as escalation.

When asked whether the operation had achieved its objectives, Indian officials confirmed that nine terror-linked sites were successfully targeted.

Early on Wednesday, Indian armed forces destroyed nine terrorist infrastructure including that of Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in a 25-minute-long measured and non-escalatory missile and drone strike to avenge dastardly terror attack in Pahalgam.

Under Operation Sindoor, the Indian military targeted Markaz Taiba of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in Muridke, Markaz Subhan Allah of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in Bahawalpur and Hizbul Mujahideens Mehmoona Joya Facility in Sialkot and LeTs base in Markaz Ahle Hadith in Barnala and its camp in Muzaffarabads Shawai Nalla.

The operation was conducted from 1:05 am to 1:30 am and all the targets were neutralised with clinical efficiency.

With inputs from agencies
As India wakes up to the news of Operation Sindoor, heres a look at everything that happened while you were asleep read more

India has struck terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir spread across 9 sites. Reuters

In the early hours of Wednesday, the Indian military launched , targeting nine terror camps in Pakistan. The operation is seen as Indias response to the devastating Pahalgam terror attack that led to the death of 26 tourists at the hands of Pakistani terrorists on April 22.

As the country wakes up to the news of the precision strikes, here are 10 things that happened while you were asleep.

1. Operation Sindoor: In the early hours of Wednesday, Indian armed forces launched coordinated precision strikes on nine terror hubs across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as part of a tri-services operation codenamed Operation Sindoor.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

2. Pahalgam massacre avenged: The strikes were carried out in direct response to the 22 April terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives-25 Indian citizens and one Nepali national.

Chosen terror targets: The operation targeted major terror strongholds linked to groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), and Hizbul Mujahideen. Key sites included Bahawalpur (JeM HQ), Muridke (LeT HQ), Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Sialkot, Gulpur, Bhimber, Bagh, and Chak Amru.

4. Methodical and restrained: The Ministry of Defence emphasised that the strikes were focused, measured and non-escalatory. No Pakistani civilian, economic, or military installations were targeted-only known terror camps.

5. A tri-service operation: All three branches of the Indian military-Army, Navy, and Air Force-participated in the operation, which was executed at around 1:44 am IST. No Indian jets were lost during the mission.

6. Intelligence-led strikes: The nine locations were selected based on actionable intelligence linking them to terror activities directed against India. The sites have a history of involvement in terror plots and infiltration attempts. The NTRO, the National Technical Research Organisation, a technical intelligence agency, provided intelligence leadership for the operation.

7. What Pakistan said: Pakistans Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the strikes, calling them an act of war and vowed that Pakistan would respond forcefully at a time and place of its choosing.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

PM Modi monitors operation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi monitored Operation Sindoor through the night. He is chairing a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Wednesday. Earlier, PM Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasised Indias resolve to hold perpetrators accountable and to strike at the roots of cross-border terrorism. No civilian casualties: Official statements from India asserted that the strikes were designed to minimise collateral damage, with no reports of civilian casualties or hits on economic infrastructure.

10. Diplomatic outreach: Following the operation, Indian officials briefed key international partners, including the US, emphasising the legitimacy and restraint of the action, and underlining Indias right to self-defence in the face of continued cross-border terrorism.

Justice is served, the Indian Army posted after the strikes, signalling a strong message against terror infrastructure across the border.
Indias equity markets showed stability as investors reacted to the Indian forces strike against terror groups in Pakistan under Operation Sindoor. The Nifty and Sensex remained in the green, though slightly flat. read more

Indias equity markets remained stable as investors reacted to Operation Sindoor, the Indian forces strike against terror outfits in Pakistan, while panic gripped stock markets in Karachi. The benchmark indices, Nifty and Sensex, were slightly lower but largely flat.

In contrast, Pakistani stock markets crashed following the Indian strikes, with the SE100 index dropping by 5 per cent.

In a strong response to the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched precision missile strikes early Wednesday under Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Earlier, the Nifty had dropped nearly 100 points on Tuesday, with broader markets showing signs of concern, particularly after disappointing quarterly earnings. PSU banks remain in focus, especially after Bank of Barodas results on Tuesday, which led to a nearly 60,000 crore loss in market capitalisation.

Defence stocks like HAL, BDL, and BEL rose by over 1 per cent after India launched Operation Sindoor early Wednesday in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack.

As part of the operation, Indian armed forces struck nine terror targets in Pakistan and PoK, including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold in Bahawalpur and the Lashkar-e-Taiba base in Muridke.

The strikes came two weeks after 26 civilians were killed in the Pahalgam massacre in Jammu and Kashmir.

In a statement issued at 1:44 am, the Defence Ministry said, The Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where attacks on India have been planned and directed.
During the cabinet meeting, PM Modi detailed the precision and efficiency of the strikes, calling it a perfect strike. The operation was launched in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians read more

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chairs meeting of Cabinet Committee on Security, in New Delhi, on April 23, 2025. Image: PIB

In a high-level cabinet meeting held on Wednesday (May 7), Prime Minister Narendra Modi briefed the ministers and other colleagues on the successful execution of Operation Sindoor, a coordinated military response targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The operation was launched in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, predominantly Hindu tourists, in Jammu and Kashmir.

During the meeting, PM Modi detailed the precision and efficiency of the strikes, calling it a perfect strike, sources told News18.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Over a span of 25 minutes, Indian Armed Forces conducted 24 missile strikes on nine identified terror camps associated with groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. The strikes reportedly resulted in the elimination of over 70 terrorists and significant damage to the operational capabilities of these groups.

With inputs from agencies
Families of the victims of the devastating Pahalgam terror attack lauded the Indian military for conducting Operation Sindoor against the terrorist targets in Pakistan read more

The family of the victims who lost their lives in the devastating Pahalgam terror attack hailed Operation Sindoor and thanked the Indian military for taking action following the attack. While speaking to ANI, the grief-stricken kin of Pahalgam victims expressed appreciation for the Indian government for avenging their loss.

In the early hours of Wednesday, India conducted a tri-service mission called and struck nine terror camps in Pakistan. The operation was conducted as a response to the Pahalgam terror attack, in which Pakistani terrorists had their hands.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Asavari Jagdale, daughter of the slain victim Santosh Jagdale, who was killed by terrorists on April 22, told ANI that losing husbands and fathers to many was not left in vain. She insisted that India has paid genuine homage to the victims and served justice.

We got calls from our relatives (about Operation Sindoor). India has avenged the Pahalgam attack through these air strikes. I was extremely emotional after hearing the name (Sindoor) of the mission. When Amit Shah came to Srinagar to pay homage to those who were given veer maran, the sisters who lost their husbands were pleading. I think this is why such a name has been attributed to the operation, Jagdale said.

The loss of husbands and fathers was not left in vain. India has paid actual homage to them (victims) by striking. I want to thank you for the justice served within 15 days, she added. It is pertinent to note that India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistans undisputed territory since 1971. Hence, it marks New Delhis most significant action in Pakistan territory in 5 decades.

Kin of victims speak out

For the families of the victims of the Pahalgam attack, these strikes were seen as justice being delivered.

Manoj Dwivedi, a relative of one of the victims, said that justice had been finally served to the victims. On 22nd April, when our child lost his life, we said that a revolution is going to come in our country. We were sure that PM Modi would take the strictest steps to finish terrorism. I want to thank PM Modi for the real tribute that the Army has given today to our son, the relative told ANI.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Meanwhile, locals in Jammu were seen chanting slogans like Indian Army Zindabad and Bharat Mata ki Jai, applauding the Indian Army. It was very important for the government to give a response to the attack made by Pakistan. We are really thankful to the government and the Indian Army, a local told ANI.

Asha Narwal, mother of Indian Navy Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, who lost his life in the Pahalgam terror attack, also lauded the Indian army. My whole family is with Modi Sahab, who has taken revenge today. I want to tell the Armed Forces personnel to keep moving forward. Today, a tribute has been paid to all those who lost their lives, she told local reporters.

Pragati Jagdale, wife of Santosh Jagdale, who was killed in the Pahalgam terror attack, said: Modi ji has shown Pakistan that we will not sit quietly. I feel, with #OperationSindoor, PM Modi will end terrorism.

In the Wednesday strike, the I ndian forces selected the targets with the intent of eliminating top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution, the Ministry of Defence said in a statement.

With inputs from ANI.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said, citing intelligence inputs, that more terror attacks were planned by Pakistan-based terrorists in Indias Jammu and Kashmir and the country was ready and prepared read more

India has sent out a strong message to Pakistan after the pre-dawn, cross-border strikes on May 7. (Image: AP)

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Wednesday (May 7) told media that the Operation Sindoor launched by the countrys armed forces, under which terror camps were targeted in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, was part of a preemptive action meant to incapacitate the terrorists who were to be sent to India for further attacks.

Todays operation was to dismantle the infrastructure of terrorism and incapacitate the terrorists being sent to India, Misri told the media.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

He also said, citing intelligence inputs, that more terror attacks were planned by Pakistan-based terrorists in Indias Jammu and Kashmir.

We have information that more attacks could be done on India and we have to be ready to deal with those and we are ready and prepared, Misri said.

On Wednesday, the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor, a swift and targeted military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. The operation focused on striking terrorist infrastructure both in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

In an official statement, the Ministry of Defence confirmed that nine terror-linked sites were hit with precision. Importantly, the strikes did not target any Pakistani military facilities, highlighting that the operation was aimed strictly at eliminating terror bases and avoiding direct military escalation.
The former army chief hinted that more such strikes were possible if Pakistan decided to escalate the conflict by attempting to target sites in India read more

Former Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army, Manoj Mukund Naravane

Former Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army, Manoj Mukund Naravane, made a cryptic post on X on Wednesday (May 7) following Indias counter-offensive targeting nine high-value terror-linked sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Naravane wrote in his post: Abhi picture baki hai (The action is still on)

Abhi picture baki hai  Manoj Naravane (@ManojNaravane) May 7, 2025

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The former army chief hinted that more such strikes were possible if Pakistan decided to escalate the conflict by attempting to target sites in India.

More from India India conducts Operation Sindoor post-Pahalgam; Armed forces hit terror camps in Pak, PoK

Earlier, it was reported by the media that India has issued a warning to Pakistan against escalating the conflict.

Following the launch of strikes, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to the chiefs of the Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Indian Navy, ANI reported earlier.

From across the border, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called Indias anti-terror operation an act of war and said a befitting reply would be given.

India strikes terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan

In a bold and calculated retaliation following the brutal massacre of 26 civilians in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, India on early Wednesday launched a powerful military response deep into Pakistani territory, under the Operation Sindoor.

The operation, executed under the cover of night, saw the Indian Air Force strike nine key terror-linked targets with precision-guided missiles. These high-value locations were believed to be hubs of terror activity, and their destruction marks one of the most daring and significant cross-border operations in recent memory.

Indias Defence Ministry called Operation Sindoor, a precise and restrained response to the barbaric Pahalgam terror attack.

Importantly, no Pakistani military facilities were hit, reflecting Indias calibrated and non-escalatory approach. This operation underscores Indias resolve to hold perpetrators accountable while avoiding unnecessary provocation, read a post from the Defence Ministrys official X handle.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said Indias cross-border anti-terror operation was meant to incapacitate the terrorists read more

Nine locations in Pakistan were targeted by the armed forces (AP)

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Wednesday (May 7) told the media that Pakistan-based terrorists were planning more terror attacks in India, and the country was fully prepared and ready.

We have information that more attacks could be done on India and we have to be ready to deal with those and we are ready and prepared, Misri said, citing intelligence reports.

He added that Indias cross-border anti-terror Operation Sindoor was meant to incapacitate the terrorists.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Todays operation was to dismantle the infrastructure of terrorism and incapacitate the terrorists being sent to India, he added.

On Wednesday, the Indian armed forces launched  Sindoor, a swift and targeted military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. The operation focused on striking terrorist infrastructure both in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The Indian government has also issued a map showing active terror camps across the border under Pakistans watch.

The Indian side also released images showing the targeted terror camps completely decimated and destroyed after Indias strikes.

Other images showed terror camps that were targeted in Indias precision strikes.

India said Wednesday it hit a total of nine terror camps inside Pakistan. It has warned Pakistan of more such strikes if it decides to escalate the conflict.
The press briefing came after the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor on Wednesday, a swift and targeted military response to the April 22 massacre in Jammu and Kashmir read more

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Wednesday (May 7) briefed the media following Indias cross-border strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), in which nine terror sites were targeted. India categorically specified that its strikes displayed a calibrated and non-escalatory approach.

Misri asserted that the strikes came in response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir last month in which 26 people were killed, causing the largest number of civilian casualties in a terrorist attack in India since the 26th November 2008 attacks in Mumbai.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The press briefing came after the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor on Wednesday, a swift and targeted military response to the April 22 massacre. The operation focused on striking terrorist infrastructure both in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Here is what Misri said:

As you are all aware, on April 22, 2025, Pakistani and Pakistan-trained terrorists belonging to the Lashkar-e-Taiba carried out a savage attack on Indian tourists at Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir in India. They murdered 26 people, including one national of Nepal, causing the largest number of civilian casualties in a terrorist attack in India since the 26th November 2008 attacks in Mumbai. The attack in Pahalgam was marked by extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with headshots from close range and in front of their families. Family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of the killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message.

The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining the normalcy returning to Jammu and Kashmir. In particular, it was designed to impact the mainstay of the economy, tourism, with a record 23 million tourists visiting the valley last year. The calculation, presumably, was that harming growth and development in the Union Territory would help keep it backward and create fertile ground for continued cross-border terrorism from Pakistan. The manner of the attack was also driven by an objective of provoking communal discord, both in Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of the Nation. It is to the credit of the government and the people of India that these designs were foiled.

A group calling itself The Resistance Front has claimed responsibility for the attack. This group is a front for the UN-proscribed Pakistani terrorist group, Lashkar-e-Taiba. It is notable that India had given inputs about the TRF in the half-yearly report to the monitoring team of the UNs 1267 Sanctions Committee in May and November 2024, bringing out its role as a cover for Pakistan-based terrorist groups.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Earlier too, in December 2023, India had informed the monitoring team about Lashkar and Jaish-e-Mohammad operating through small terror groups such as the TRF. Pakistans pressure to remove references to TRF in the April 25 UN Security Council Press Statement is notable in this regard.

Investigations into the Pahalgam terror attack have brought out the communication notes of terrorists in and to Pakistan. The claims made by the Resistance Front and their reposting by known social media handles of the Lashkar-e-Taiba speak for themselves. Identification of the attackers based on eyewitness accounts, as well as other information available to law enforcement agencies, has also progressed. Our intelligence has developed an accurate picture of the planners and backers of this team.

The features of this attack also tie in with Pakistans long track record of perpetrating cross-border terror in India, which is well documented, and beyond question. Pakistan also has a well-deserved reputation as a haven for terrorists from around the world, with internationally proscribed terrorists enjoying impunity there. In addition, Pakistan has been known to willfully mislead the world and international forums, such as the Financial Action Task Force, on this issue.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The Sajid Mir case, in which this terrorist was declared dead and then, in response to international pressure, brought back to life, found alive and arrested, is the most glaring example. The latest attack in Pahalgam has understandably generated deep anger in Jammu and Kashmir, and in other parts of India. Following the attacks, the Government of India naturally responded with a set of initial measures relating to our engagement with Pakistan. You are all aware of the decisions that were announced on the 23rd of April.

However, it was deemed essential that the perpetrators and planners of the 22nd April attack be brought to justice. Despite a fortnight having passed since the attacks, there has been no demonstrable step from Pakistan to take action against the terrorist infrastructure on its territory or on territory under its control. Instead, all it has indulged in are denials and allegations. Our intelligence monitoring of Pakistan-based terrorist modules indicated that further attacks against India were impending. There was thus a compulsion both to deter and to pre-empt.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Earlier this morning as you would be aware India exercised its right to respond and pre-empt as well as deter more such cross-border attacks. These actions were measured, non-escalatory, proportionate, and responsible. They focused on dismantling the terrorist infrastructure and disabling terrorists likely to be sent across to India.

You would also recall that the Security Council on 25th April 2025 had issued a Press Statement on the Pahalgam terror attack, underlining, and I quote, The need to hold perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of this reprehensible act of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice. Indias latest actions should be seen in this context.
The Nifty 50 index has shown a pattern of sharp recoveries following most cross-border military events, whether it be the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, the Uri surgical strike, or even the Kargil War of 1999 read more

Stock markets in India have historically remained resilient in the face of major events liek military escalations. File image/Reuters

India carried out precision strikes on nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir under Operation Sindoor on Wednesday (May 7). The action, which came in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, sent shockwaves throughout the country.

Investors and analysts are watching closely for signs of market volatility. But if history is any guide, the Indian stock market may have little to fear.

A review of past India-Pakistan flashpoints, ranging from the Kargil War in 1999 to the Balakot airstrike in 2019, suggests that geopolitical tensions, have rarely derailed Indias market trajectory in the medium to long term.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

According to data shared by Finavenue, the Nifty 50 index has shown a pattern of sharp recoveries following most cross-border military events.

Markets may stumble, but they rarely fall

The numbers are telling. After the 2016 Uri surgical strikes, the Nifty 50 slipped by 1.2 per cent in the first month but rebounded with a 15.6 per cent gain over the next year.

Similarly, after the 2019 Pulwama-Balakot episode, which saw heightened military engagement between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, the index rose 6.3 per cent within a month and gained 12.7 per cent over the next 12 months.

The Kargil War, despite being a full-fledged conflict, saw the Nifty surge 16.5 per cent within a month of hostilities breaking out, eventually climbing 29.4 per cent over a year. Even the Mumbai 26/11 attacks, Indias worst terror strike in recent history, did not impede a 54 per cent gain over the following six months and a staggering 81.9 per cent in 12 months following the attack.

The only notable exception was the December 2001 Parliament attack, after which the Nifty slipped into negative territory over both the short and long term. That incident triggered months of military standoff, which may explain the markets atypical reaction.

Investor sentiment anchored in certainty

Historical data suggests that the Indian stock market has generally responded with resilience to serious geopolitical events, said Abhishek Jaiswal, Fund Manager at Finavenue Jaiswal.

He added that the likelihood of a full-scale war remains low. As long as such escalation is avoided, Indias economic growth trajectory is unlikely to face any major setbacks.

In essence, while the initial reaction to cross-border strikes may be cautious, markets tend to recover and even thrive thereafterreinforcing the idea that political stability, strategic decisiveness, and national security assurance are valued by investors.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Operation Sindoor in context

Operation Sindoor, which targeted nine terror infrastructure sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, was described by Indian officials as measured and non-escalatory.

No Pakistani military assets were targeted, and New Delhi has signalled it showed considerable restraint in the aftermath of Pahalgam terror attack.

That posture may help contain any sharp correction in market sentiment. Analysts say the market had largely priced in a calibrated military response following the Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 civilians.
In this screenshot from @MEAIndia via Youtube on May 7, 2025, a map showing the terrorist camps struck as part of 'Operation Sindoor' in Pakistan and PoK, being displayed during a press conference, in New Delhi. PTI

The Indian armed forces executed Operation Sindoor, a high-precision, 25-minute military offensive targeting nine terrorist facilities across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in the early hours on Wednesday. Among these targets was Markaz Taiba, the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) training compound in Muridke, Punjab,  a site infamous for its direct link to some of the worst terror attacks on Indian soil, including the 26/11 Mumbai carnage.

The operation came in response to the Pahalgam terror attack of April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, including several Nepali nationals. Intelligence traced the origins of the attack to LeT and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) factions operating from across the border. What followed was a coordinated assault by Indias army, navy and air force showcasing unprecedented synergy and firepower.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Fall of Markaz Taiba

Among the key targets destroyed was Markaz Taiba, often described as the ideological and operational nerve centre of Lashkar-e-Taiba. Located in Nangal Sahdan, Muridke, this complex had for years operated with impunity producing jihadists under the guise of religious education.

Founded in 2000, Markaz Taiba enrolled around 1,000 students each year in a range of courses blending religious indoctrination with paramilitary training. From firearms and explosives handling to psychological conditioning, the centre functioned as a terror boot camp. It held advanced facilities for arms training, radicalisation and dawah (preaching), all sheltered under the legitimising veneer of a madrasa.

Crucially, it was here that Ajmal Kasab, the lone surviving attacker of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, was trained in Daura-e-Ribbat, an intelligence and operational training programme. The Markaz has also hosted key figures like David Coleman Headley and Tahawwur Rana, who helped orchestrate the 26/11 attacks. They visited the site under instructions from LeTs military chief Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi with logistical assistance from Abdul Rehman Sayed @ Pasha and others.

The facility was also partly funded by Osama bin Laden, who reportedly donated Rs 10 million to build a mosque and guest house within the complex. The financial link between Al Qaedas founding leader and LeT only demonstrated the global jihadist nexus converging at Muridke.

Strategic, symbolic and psychological victory

The obliteration of Markaz Taiba is more than just a tactical win. It is a symbolic dismantling of a terror ideology that has haunted India for over two decades. As a hub that churned out thousands of radicalised individuals annually, its destruction sends a powerful message not only to terror outfits but also to their sponsors and sympathisers in the Pakistani establishment.

The Indian government, through Operation Sindoor, has made it clear that state-sponsored terrorism will not go unanswered. With Rafale jets deploying SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs, the strike was both technologically superior and surgically executed.

Pakistans denial and diplomatic backlash

Predictably, Pakistan downplayed the nature of the sites hit, claiming that 26 civilians, including women and children, were killed. It labelled the action an act of war and resorted to cross-border shelling.

The international reaction was swift. The United Nations called for restraint, while the US and China urged dialogue to prevent escalation between the nuclear-armed neighbours. Airlines began rerouting flights signalling the regions volatility and the global implications of unchecked terrorism.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

A turning point

Operation Sindoor signifies a turning point in Indias counterterrorism doctrine. It marks a shift from reactive diplomacy to proactive precision. The destruction of Markaz Taiba stands as a testament to Indias resolve in uprooting the roots of terror even across hostile borders.

Beyond military success, the operation opens new geopolitical dialogues on the rules of engagement, sovereignty and accountability. It also places Pakistans duplicity under international scrutiny  especially its support for LeT despite repeated denials and global proscription of the group.

While the destruction of Markaz Taiba is a critical milestone, it is unlikely to spell the end of Pakistan-based terror altogether. However, the loss of its most iconic facility is a crushing blow to LeTs logistical and recruitment capabilities. The psychological impact on operatives, sympathisers and backers cannot be overstated.

For India, the elimination of the site where Ajmal Kasab and others were trained is a form of delayed justice. For the world, its a stark reminder that no haven for terrorism should ever feel secure again.
The Pahalgam terror attack was intended to provoke communal discord in Kashmir and across India, according to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. This statement was made during a press briefing on Operation Sindoor. read more

The Pahalgam terror attack was aimed at inciting communal discord in Kashmir and across India, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said in a press briefing on Operation Sindoor.

The manner of the attack was also driven by an objective of provoking communal discord, both in Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of the nation. It is to the credit of the government and the people of India that these designs were foiled, Misri said.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In response, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir to dismantle the infrastructure of terror groups responsible for planning and executing attacks against India.

In retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack, Indian armed forces launched missile strikes early on Wednesday, targeting nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, including the Jaish-e-Mohammed stronghold in Bahawalpur and the Lashkar-e-Taiba base in Muridke.

The strikes were carried out under Operation Sindoor, two weeks after the attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 civilians in Jammu and Kashmir. The government on Wednesday said that India exercised its right to respond, preempt, and deter more cross-border attacks such as the one in Pahalgam, and asserted that it focused on dismantling the terror infrastructure and disabling terrorists.

The statement was made at a media briefing by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Col. Sofia Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh after Indian armed forces carried out missile strikes on terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, including the Jaish-e-Mohammed stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taibas base in Muridke.

The defence ministry said in a statement that the operation hit terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, where attacks on India have been planned. It added that the operation was focused, measured and non-escalatory and did not target Pakistani military facilities.

The strikes were successful, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi closely monitored the operation. Muridke, near Lahore, is the base for Lashkar-e-Taiba, while Bahawalpur is the main stronghold for Jaish-e-Mohammed. Other targets, such as Kotli and Muzaffarabad in PoK, have long hosted camps and training facilities for both groups.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Operation Sindoor is named after the red vermillion worn by Hindu women to signify their married status. This symbolism reflects the tragedy in Pahalgam, where several husbands, including an Indian Navy officer, were killed in front of their wives.

The attack led to widespread outrage, both in India and internationally. Prime Minister Modi vowed to take strong action against terrorism following the incident.
Between candlelit shelters and childhood games in trenches, Assam remembers a time when war crept close and courage took root in everyday lives read more

(File) In this December 7, 1971, photo, Indian troops advance inside the Northwest sector of East Pakistan. In 1971 India Pakistan fought their third war in what was then East Pakistan. Indian troops supported secessionists fighting for Bangladesh's independence from Pakistan. The war ended with the creation of Bangladesh. AP

While many places in Assam are participating in the nationwide civil defence mock drill on May 7, 2025, the state carries a historical legacy of its own when it comes to such preparedness efforts. Nestled in Indias idyllic North East, Assam is no stranger to the countrys military history, having played a significant role in several of its major conflicts.

During World War II, the region became a crucial base for Allied operations in the Southeast Asian theatre. The construction of the Ledo Road and the use of airstrips like those in Dibrugarh and Chabua helped supply the Allied forces via the treacherous aerial route known as The Hump. In 1962, amid the Chinese aggression, Assam once again found itself on the frontlines. The threat loomed particularly large over towns like Tezpur, with the Chinese army advancing up to the opposite side of the Brahmaputra before withdrawing unilaterally.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Again in 1971, during the India-Pakistan war that led to the liberation of Bangladesh, Assams proximity to East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) made it a strategically vital region. The state experienced regular air raid sirens, civil defence drills and military preparedness  reflecting both its geographical importance and its vulnerability. These episodes reflect how Assam, often distant from the political centres of conflict, has nonetheless stood at the forefront during national emergencies.

When war loomed, trenches became a way of life

And when it was wartime, civil defence activities took top priority.

Mock drills were conducted in full swing before the war. I dont remember trenches being dug in 1971 during the Bangladesh war, but they were definitely dug in 1962 during the Indo-Chinese war, recalled Prasanta Kumar Dutta, a retired engineer who now resides in Tezpur. We were in Nagaon, located just across the Brahmaputra from Tezpur, which was on the northern bank. The Chinese reached up to Tezpur before they went back on their own.

He paints a vivid picture of a childhood shaped by conflict and creativity.

All the trenches were dug in the shape of English letters like A or M. They were around 2 feet wide and 2.5 feet deep. They were ready during the Chinese aggression, and many such trenches were built. As children, we even played hide and seek in those trenches. However, I dont remember entering them when the actual war with China happened.

At that time, infrastructure was limited.

There was no bridge then connecting both banks of the Brahmaputra between the districts of Sonitpur and Nagaon. Tezpur, the headquarters of Sonitpur district, also hosted the 4 Corps of the Indian Army and the Salonibari airbase, which is now home to a Sukhoi-30MKI squadron, he added.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The shape of survival: Why letter-shaped trenches mattered

There was method behind the seemingly simple shapes of the trenches. Trenches shaped like the letters A, M or L allowed better movement and access within the network. These configurations offered multiple arms or angles, making it easier for people  especially soldiers  to move quickly between sections. In combat, the ability to shift positions without being exposed to enemy fire is critical and these shapes helped facilitate that.

Letter-shaped trenches also offered tactical coverage by allowing defenders to monitor different directions and cover each others blind spots. For example, an M-shaped trench provided several vantage points, enabling defenders to aim in multiple directions and improving overall defensive capabilities.

Another significant advantage of these designs was blast resistance. A straight trench concentrates the force of an explosion along its entire length, increasing casualties. But trenches with bends or angles, such as L or M shapes, helped absorb and deflect the shockwaves and shrapnel from blasts. The corners acted as buffers reducing the impact on those inside.

From the air, long, straight trenches are easier to detect. But letter-shaped or irregular trenches blend better with the landscape. Their complex, natural-looking patterns could confuse enemy reconnaissance, making it harder to assess the size, strength or layout of defences.

Even internally, these trench shapes offered better organisation. Different arms of an M or A-shaped trench could be designated for different functions  active defence, resting areas, storage or even makeshift medical aid. This functional separation supported both combat efficiency and human welfare inside the trench.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Dibrugarh: A town with wartime memories etched in silence

For many residents of Assam, these moments of national crisis are not just history  they are deeply personal.

Dipom Baruah, now in his 60s, lives in Dibrugarh district. He vividly remembers the 1971 India-Pakistan war, though he was only a Class 6 student at the time.

Dibrugarh never became a battlefield in the conventional sense, but its role in multiple conflicts was far from passive.

During World War II, the town gained strategic significance due to its proximity to the Burmese frontier. Though it saw no direct combat, it played a vital logistical and administrative role. During the 1962 Sino-Indian War, Dibrugarh again did not witness direct fighting but was crucial as a supply base. The war occurred mainly in Arunachal Pradesh (then NEFA), which borders Upper Assam. Troops and supplies passed through Dibrugarh en route to the contested Himalayan frontier and the region saw a surge in military presence and preparedness. By 1971, during the Indo-Pak war, Dibrugarh found itself once more in a strategic position. It served as a key logistical and communications hub.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Night sirens and shelters that defined childhood

Baruah still recalls those anxious nights.

When the siren was sounded, lights were switched off immediately. People would rush to the shelter  usually an L-shaped trench dug to about 6x4 feet. The size depended on how many people lived in a household, he said. Most families had these trenches. If there wasnt enough space at home, they were dug even in paddy fields. The idea was to dig deep enough so the person inside was fully covered.

The design of the trench mattered.

It was recommended that the trench be dug in an L-shape to provide better manoeuvrability in case of an attack from different directions. The shape could help protect people more effectively during air raids, he explained.

These were times when fear became routine.

When the first siren sounded, people rushed into the trenches. When the second siren was heard, people came out  that meant the threat had passed. The idea was to keep casualties to a minimum if the area was bombed.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The air raids mostly happened after dusk. People carried candles, matchboxes, sometimes even food. The trench was big enough to sleep in. Often, they were covered with bamboo, banana leaves, or betel nut branches, he said.

Raids were frequent, sometimes nightly.

There was no count to the raids. As soon as enemy aircraft from East Pakistan were detected on radar, the siren would go off. The raids happened mostly in the evening or at night. Though no bombs were actually dropped here, the raids went on for nearly 21 days  until Pakistan surrendered and Bangladesh was born.

Unsung heroes of civil defence

During that tense period, the role of civil defence volunteers was critical.

Volunteers from were very active. They trained people on how to react during raids. Many young boys and girls were recruited. They carried first aid kits with bandages and Dettol, ready to help if needed. While Dibrugarh saw no direct combat, the level of preparedness was high, Baruah recalled.

But 1971 also left behind a personal scar for him  one that the sirens could not drown out.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

My mother was in the hospital. She passed away that year, he said quietly. Once, we went to visit her with my uncle at the Assam Medical College in Dibrugarh. Then the siren suddenly sounded. We rushed back home  that memory has never left me.

A living history

Assams story is not just about strategic locations or defensive formations. Its about the people who lived through war without fighting it, who prepared for the worst in their courtyards and paddy fields, who taught their children how to duck into trenches when sirens wailed in the night.

For them, war wasnt a newspaper headline. It was a night filled with candlelight, whispers and shadows  and the hope that tomorrow would be better.
Since modern international humanitarian law applies based on the existence of hostilities, not on whether a war has been formally declared, Pakistans actions can be seen through the lens of international conventions on war crime. read more

Pakistani Army has resorted to shelling civilians along Line of Control in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor. AI-generated image via DALL-E

The past couple of weeks have been extremely tense for India-Pakistan relations. It reached a fever pitch with India executing precision strikes on terror infrastructure spread across nine strikes Operation Sindoor.

Pakistan vowed to retaliate, in what is being called the worst clash between the nuclear-armed neighbours in over two decades.

Pakistans response to Indias strikes has been to deliberately commence artillery firing on civilians, a move that defence and strategic affairs analyst Colonel Danvir Singh (Retd) says amounts to war crime.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Heres an in-depth look at what has transpired.

Pakistan Army attacks civilians along LoC

Following Indias precision strikes on Wednesday (May 7) which targeted nine terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Pakistan initiated heavy artillery shelling across the Line of Control (LoC).

This shelling affected multiple sectors, including Krishna Ghati, Shahpur, and Mankote in Poonch district, as well as Laam, Manjakote, and Gambeer Brahmana in Rajouri district.

On Wednesday evening, sources from the Ministry of Defence told Firstpost that following heavy shelling on civilians along the Line of Control, Poonch, Tangdhar, and Uri had been adversely affected.

They confirmed that at least 15 people have died in Poonch and Tangdhar, with the latest fatalities report suggesting 15 fatalities in Poonch itself. The lives lost belonged to civilians innocent non-combatants who were not involved in the hostilities.

Moreover, 44 people, including two Central Reserve Police Force personnel, had been injured in Poonch. In Uri, 15 people were injured, the sources said.

Do these actions constitute war crimes?

Before one asks whether Pakistan Armys actions constituted war crimes, there is an even more fundamental question to be answered. If two countries have not declared war, can actions still come under the purview of war crimes?

Since modern international humanitarian law applies based on the existence of hostilities, not on whether a war has been formally declared, these actions can be seen through the lens of international conventions on war crime.

Col. Singh (Retd) put it quite succintly. He told Firstpost that Pakistani Army directly and deliberately targeting Indian civilians is not only a human rights violation but also a war crime.

Targeting civilians during war is considered a war crime under the Geneva Conventions, specifically under the Fourth Geneva Convention (1949) and its Additional Protocol I (1977), because it violates the fundamental principle of distinction in international humanitarian law (IHL). This principle requires parties to a conflict to distinguish between combatants and civilians, ensuring that only military targets are attacked, he explained, emphasising that Pakistan has targeted innocent civilians in Poonch and Kupwara in the ongoing military escalation.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Which conventions has Pakistan violated?

The following are international conventions and statutes that term attacks on non-combatants and civilians as war crimes:

Fourth Geneva Convention (1949)  Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War

1. Article 27: Protected persons are entitled, in all circumstances, to respect for their persons, their honour, their family rights, their religious convictions and practices, and their manners and customs. (Protected persons refers to individuals who are not or no longer taking part in hostilities and are therefore entitled to special protections during times of war or armed conflict.)

2. Article 32: Prohibits measures of brutality whether applied by civilian or military agents.

Additional Protocol I (1977)  Relating to the Protection of Victims of International Armed Conflicts

1. Article 51(2): The civilian population shall not be the object of attack.

2. Article 85(3)(a): Wilful attacks on the civilian population or individual civilians not taking direct part in hostilities are defined as grave breaches and therefore war crimes.

Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (1998)

1. Article 8(2)(b)(i): Intentionally directing attacks against the civilian population as such or against individual civilians not taking direct part in hostilities is a war crime.

2. Article 8(2)(e)(i): Further criminalises such acts in non-international armed conflicts.

Customary International Humanitarian Law (IHL)

1. Rule 1: The parties to the conflict must at all times distinguish between civilians and combatants.

2. Rule 6: Civilians are protected against attack unless and for such time as they take a direct part in hostilities.

3. Rule 156: Lists attacks against civilians as war crimes under both treaty law and customary law.

Whether action is taken on these grounds remains to be seen.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi closely tracked Operation Sindoor overnight as Indian forces launched precision strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). read more

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, CDS General Anil Chauhan and Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi during a meeting in New Delhi. PTI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi closely monitored throughout the night as the Indian armed forces carried out precision strikes against terror outfits and their hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), news agency ANI reported.

The missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir were successful, with Indian forces aiming to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba leaders for their role in orchestrating terror attacks in India.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In the early hours of Wednesday, Indian forces launched precision strikes on terrorist infrastructure across the border. According to the Ministry of Defence, the actions were focused, measured, and non-escalatory, with no Pakistani military sites targeted. The strikes were carried out in response to the brutal Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 25 Indian citizens and one Nepali national.

The operation employed advanced weapon systems from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, including loitering munitions, and was executed entirely from Indian soil. Intelligence agencies provided the exact coordinates for the targets, sources said.

Following the strikes, Pakistan violated the ceasefire agreement by firing artillery in the Bhimber Gali area of Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian Army responded in a calibrated manner, officials confirmed.

In a post on X, the Army said: Pakistan again violates the Ceasefire Agreement by firing artillery in Bhimber Gali in the Poonch-Rajouri area. The Indian Army is responding appropriately.

Operation Sindoor

In response to the deadly Pahalgam attack that killed 26 people, the Indian armed forces carried out missile strikes early Wednesday on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including Bahawalpur, a known base of the Jaish-e-Mohammad group.

The strikes were part of Operation Sindoor, the Defence Ministry said in a statement issued at 1:44 am, adding that the action was focused, measured, and non-escalatory.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called the strikes an act of war and said his country reserves the right to respond accordingly.
Regardless of their party affiliations, Indian politicians took a unified stance on Operation Sindoor. Hailed the Indian military mission against Pakistani terror camps read more

Regardless of party affiliations, politicians in India hailed as the Indian military targeted nine terror camps in Pakistan. The precision strikes were conducted in response to the devastating Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 tourists in Kashmir on April 22.

Parties like Congress, BJD and leaders from the current government took a unanimous stance on the matter. Following the attack, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to the chiefs of the Indian Army, Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy, sources told ANI. Soon after the strike, the MoD shared further details regarding the operation.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Our actions have been focused, measured and non-exclamatory. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the election of targets and methods of execution, the statement from the ministry read.

How are the politicians reacting to the attack?

Leader of the Opposition, Rahul Gandhi and his Congress party lauded the Indian army for Operation Sindoor. Proud of our Armed Forces. Jai Hind! Gandhi wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also took to X and hailed the Indian armed forces for the successful operation.

Proud of our Armed Forces. Jai Hind!  Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 7, 2025

Kharge wrote, India has an unflinching National Policy against all forms of terrorism emanating from Pakistan and PoK. He stated that the Congress Party stands with the Indian armed forces. Similar sentiments were also echoed by Congress MP Jairam Ramesh. It must be Indias unwavering policy to completely eliminate all sources of terrorism in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), and this policy must always be guided by the supreme national interest, Ramesh stated on X.

India has an unflinching National Policy against all forms of terrorism emanating from Pakistan and PoK.



We are extremely proud of our Indian Armed Forces who have stuck terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. We applaud their resolute resolve and courage.



Since the day of the  Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) May 7, 2025

This is a time for unity and solidarity, he further asserted.

India's commitment to eliminating all sources of terrorism in Pakistan and PoK has necessarily to be uncompromising and always be anchored in the supreme national interest. This is a time for unity and solidarity. Right from the night of April 22nd, the INC has been categorically  Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) May 7, 2025

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Other opposition leaders

AIMIM chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi also welcomed the overnight military action by the Indian military. I welcome the surgical strikes carried out by our defence forces on terror camps in Pakistan. The Pakistani deep state must be taught a tough lesson so that another Pahalgam never happens again. Pakistans terror infrastructure must be destroyed. Jai Hind, Owaisi wrote in an online post in Urdu and Hindi.

                                                !#OperationSindoor  Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) May 7, 2025

Former Bihar deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav wrote on X: Hail India! There should be neither terror nor separatism! We are proud of our brave soldiers and the Indian Army. His father and RJD chief Lalu Prasad said, Jai Hind! Jai Hind ki Sena!

 !  !



  ,   !



          #IndianArmy  Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) May 6, 2025

While attending the event in the Russia House, Odisha Leader of Opposition and BJD chief Naveen Patnaik also expressed his support for the operation. I have been informed that the Indian Armed Forces have been successful in the operation against terrorists. I congratulate them with all my heart, Patnaik told the media present at the event.

#WATCH | Delhi: On #OperationSindoor, Odisha Leader of Opposition and BJD chief Naveen Patnaik says, " I have been informed that the Indian Armed Forces have been successful in the operation against terrorists. I congratulate them with all my heart" pic.twitter.com/WLhIl2Uf0y  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

BJP and allied leaders stand with the army and government

On Wednesday morning, the Minister of External Affairs of India, S Jaishankar, shared a one-line message to the world. The world must show zero tolerance for terrorism, he wrote on X. Maharashtra Deputy CM and Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde posted on X, Jai Hind. Operation Sindoor. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath echoed, posting Jai Hind and Jai Hind ki Sena.

The world must show zero tolerance for terrorism. #OperationSindoor pic.twitter.com/dmcCLfbMjN  Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 7, 2025

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami also shared a post in Sanskrit and Hindi. Courage, brilliance and restraint are the soldiers of India. May victory be eternal in them, and may Mother India be victorious. Where there is the Army of India, there is courage, brilliance and discipline Jai Bharat Mata Ki," he wrote in the post.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

   !  Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) May 6, 2025

Overall, the politicians took a unified stance on the matter.
The Sikh community on Wednesday strongly condemned and expressed anger over the inhuman attack by Pakistan on the Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in J&Ks Poonch, which claimed lives of four members of the community read more

The Sikh community on Wednesday strongly condemned and expressed anger over the inhuman attack by Pakistani forces on the sacred Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Jammu and Kashmirs Poonch which claimed lives of four members of the community.

Confirming the deaths, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said that targeting common people and places of worship where prayers are offered for the well-being of all, such an attack is highly condemnable.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

He identified the four deceased as Bhai Amrik Singh, Amarjit Singh, Ranjit Singh and Ruby Kaur.

-     LOC     '                  ,  ,                 ,         Bhagwant Mann (@BhagwantMann) May 7, 2025

More from India India's Sensex fluctuates but panic in Pakistani markets as SE100 drops 5% after Operation Sindoor

In a post on X in Punjabi, the Chief Minister said, There has been news of a bomb attack by Pakistan on a Gurdwara Sahib located near the LOC in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir. In this attack, a Ragi Singh Bhai Amrik Singh, Amarjit Singh, Ranjit Singh and Ruby Kaur have died. Where prayers are offered for the well-being of all, such an attack is highly condemnable. Targeting the common people is completely wrong. We express our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. It is a prayer to Guru Sahib that He may place the departed souls at His feet and give strength to the families to bear this unbearable pain.

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Singh Badal also expressed solidarity with the bereaved families and demanded adequate compensation to support them in their time of grief.

Strongly condemn the inhuman attack by Pakistani forces on the sacred Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Poonch, in which three innocent Gursikhs, including Bhai Amrik Singh Ji (a raagi Singh), Bhai Amarjeet Singh and Bhai Ranjit Singh lost their lives.

The Shiromani pic.twitter.com/T5CFLfBeyx  Sukhbir Singh Badal (@officeofssbadal) May 7, 2025

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

He, however, said three people had lost their lives in the incident.

Strongly condemn the inhuman attack by Pakistani forces on the sacred Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Poonch, in which three innocent Gursikhs, including Bhai Amrik Singh Ji (a raagi Singh), Bhai Amarjeet Singh and Bhai Ranjit Singh lost their lives. The Shiromani Akali Dal expresses complete solidarity with the families of the deceased Gursikhs and prays for peace for the departed and courage for their friends and loved ones. We demand that the martyrs be honored for their sacrifice and that the bereaved families receive adequate compensation to support them in their time of grief, Badal posted on X.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The Sikhs have always been, and will continue to be, the sword arm of the country. We stand like a rock with our armed forces. Although the Shiromani Akali Dal and our country stand for peace, if our honour is challenged by the enemy, we need no reminder to fulfill our patriotic duties, he added.

After Operation Sindoor, the Pakistan Army continued its series of ceasefire violations by targeting civilian areas in the border areas of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. Officials said the shelling caused panic among villagers and damaged several houses.

Visuals from the scene showed damaged civilian infrastructure, shattered window panes, cracked walls, and debris scattered across the lanes of the village.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also held an emergency meeting with officials over the current situation in border areas.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a Union Cabinet meeting following Operation Sindoor conducted by the Indian Armed Forces in the early hours of the day.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh briefed the other members of the cabinet regarding Operation Sindoor during the meeting.India launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir under Operation Sindoor in the early hours of Wednesday in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack.

Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation.The operation was jointly carried out by the Defence Forces with the mobilisation of assets and troops.

With inputs from agencies
India targeted nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor. Terror groups based in Pakistan, linked to the Pulwama and 26/11 attacks, were among those hit in the IAF strikes. read more

India carried out missile strikes on nine terror-related locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. AP

The nine targets struck under Operation Sindoor, four in Pakistan and five in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir, were chosen by the IAF after receiving intelligence inputs about terror camps operating under the guise of health centres to evade detection at these sites, officials said on Wednesday.

Those targeted in the missile strikes launched by India in the aftermath of the April 22 killing of tourists at Pahalgam included the headquarters of globally banned terror groups Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba, besides Hizbul Mujahideen.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The targeted sites also included Lashkar-e-Taiba training camps linked to the 26/11 Mumbai attacks (including Ajmal Kasabs training) and the groups Muridke (Pakistans Punjab) headquarters, visited by David Headley and Tahawwur Rana. Al Qaeda terrorist Osama bin Laden, killed in 2011, had donated Rs 10 lakh for the construction of a guest house there.

The selection of targets was done based on extensive intelligence, primarily due to Pakistans changing strategies aimed at concealing terror camps and circumventing sanctions from international organisations, including the FATF.

Among the targets hit in the precise operation were Markaz Subhan Allah at Bahawalpur, Sarjal at Tehra Kalan, Markaz Abbas in Kotli and Syedna Bilal camp in Muzaffarabad (all of the banned Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group).

Markaz Taiba at Murdike, Markaz Ahle Hadith at Barnala and Shwawai Nalla camp at Muzaffarabad (all of banned Lashkar-e-Taiba) and Makaz Raheel Shahid in Kotli and Mehmoona Joya in Sialkot (camps and training centres of banned Hizbul Mujahideen) were also struck.

Out of the nine targets chosen by India, four were in Pakistan and the remaining five were in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir.

Giving details of the targets chosen, the sources said that the Jaish-e-Mohammed camp at Sarjal Tehra Kalan in Narowal district of Pakistans Punjab is the main launching pad for the terror group and is operated from a Primary Health Centre.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

This camp is looked after by de facto chief Abdul Rauf Asgar. This facility, which is located six kilometres from the Samba sector of Jammu, is used for identifying the places and digging of cross-border tunnels for infiltration of terrorists.

This launch pad is also used for the operation of drones for arms and narcotics dropping across the border.

The Shawai Nallah camp at Muzaffarabad in PoK is one of the important camps of Lashkar-e-Taiba, where even the 26/11 attackers in Mumbai had received training. It was started in 2000. The Pakistani army and ISI have been frequenting this camp, which can accommodate up to 200-250 terrorists at a time, they said.

The terrorists from these camps infiltrate mainly into North Kashmir, they said, adding this camp is also used for radicalisation and map reading to fresh terror recruits.

Markaz Taiba at Muridke is being dubbed as terror factor and one of the most important training centres for Lashkar-e-Taiba, where recruits are brainwashed, given physical training and a two-week-long indoctrination course. Around 1000 students in different courses get enrolled in this camp, they said.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

At the behest of Pakistans ISI, all 10 terrorists, including Kasab, were imparted with Daura-e-Ribbat (intelligence training) at this facility. Markaz Subhanallah at Bahawalpur in Pakistan is the main centre of Jaish-e-Mohammed for training and indoctrination and serves as the operational headquarters of the terror group.

The planning of the Pulwama terror strike of February 2019 was done at the camp.

This Markaz (Centre) also consists of residences of global terrorist and the founder of Jaish-e-Mohammed, Masood Azhar, his brother Asghar and others. This platform was used by Masood Azhar for anti-India rhetoric, they said.

Markaz Abbas camp in Kotli in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir was selected because it is headed by Qari Zarar, a close aide of Asghar, and has a presence of 100-125 Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists. Zarar is wanted by the NIA.

This facility is used for infiltration of terrorists from Poonch and Rajouri sectors, and all terror strikes are planned in this camp only, they said.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Another camp of Jaish-e-Mohammed known as Markaz Syedna Bilal, located at Muzaffarabad, has a presence of 50-100 terrorists and the Special Services Group of the Pakistan army provides training to the JeM cadres at this facility.

The Mehmoona Joya terror facility at Sialkot is concealed in a health unit, and it is used for infiltration of Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists into the Jammu region, besides being a camp where training, including handling of weapons, is given. T The camp, which has a presence of 30 terrorists, is headed by Irfan Tanda, who has been responsible for carrying out attacks in Jammu city.

Markaz Raheel Shahid at Kotli in PoK camp, which was hit by the IAF, is also used for the Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists especially to train them in Border Action Team (BAT) and sniping attacks.

The ninth target was Markaz Ahle Hadith located at Barnala in Pok, which is used by Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists, they said, adding this camp has the capacity to accommodate 100-150 cadres.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

(Except headline, this story has not been edited by Firstpost staff)
While the Angola-India ties had previously been transactional and narrow, the recent visit of President Lourenco has opened doors for a multidimensional partnership built on mutual respect, strategic alignment, and shared developmental goals. read more

Angolan President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourencos historic state visit to India from May 2 to May 4, 2025, marked a pivotal turning point in the bilateral relations between the two nations. This was the first visit by an Angolan head of state in nearly four decades and coincided with the 40th anniversary of India-Angola diplomatic relations. Despite the cloud cast by the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the visit proceeded without delay, underscoring both nations resolve to strengthen ties and expand their global engagement.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

India and Angola, though geographically distant and linguistically diverse, are connected by historical threads of post-colonial solidarity, economic complementarity, and growing strategic convergence. Angola, located on the Atlantic coast of Africa, is rich in oil and minerals and forms part of the Lusophone African community. India, on the other hand, has long-standing relations with Angolas neighbours, such as Mozambique and Namibia, but its ties with Angola remained underdeveloped for much of the past two decades, especially during the tenure of former Angolan President Jose Eduardo dos Santos. During that period, Chinese engagement in Angola was dominant, leaving limited room for deeper Indo-Angolan interaction.

However, since President Lourenco took office in 2017, Angola has increasingly recognised Indias capabilities and potential contributions to its development journey. With Chinese investment in Angola declining and US tariffs beginning to bite, Angola is actively diversifying its international partnerships. Indias development-centric foreign policy and its growing economic and technological clout make it a natural partner in this quest. During his visit to Johannesburg to attend the BRICS Summit, Lourenco met PM Modi on July 26, 2018, and discussed ways to enhance trade and investment between the two countries and also to deepen cooperation in sectors like energy, agriculture, food processing and pharmaceuticals.

Energy and Economic Cooperation

One of the major highlights of the visit was the reaffirmation of the centrality of energy cooperation in India-Angola relations. Angola is Indias second-largest source of oil in Africa after Nigeria. Bilateral trade reached $4.2 billion in 202324, largely driven by oil exports to India. Both countries agreed to expand cooperation in oil exploration, refining, and energy infrastructure development. India also expressed a keen interest in participating in Angolas diamond sector, critical minerals exploration, and fertiliser production.

Angola benefits from duty-free exports of oil to the US worth $700 million under the African Growth and Opportunity Act. Yet it faces 37 per cent new tariffs. China is its largest buyer of oil. As a Least Developed Country (LDC), Angola is entitled to access the Indian market under Duty Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) but lacks exportable items. Agricultural development and greater self-reliance in food security are among its aims.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The visit saw active participation from business leaders, with targeted meetings aimed at enhancing trade, investments, and joint ventures. The Angolan delegation included key ministers who arrived in India ahead of the president to facilitate focused bilateral talks, reflecting the seriousness with which Angola approached the visit.

Defence and Strategic Engagement

Another cornerstone of the visit was the deepening of defence ties. India approved a $200 million rupee-denominated line of credit for Angola to support its defence modernisation efforts. Discussions included the supply of military equipment, joint defence production, training for Angolan military personnel, and maintenance of existing Russian platforms. Angolas openness to Indian defence cooperation is a notable shift, signifying trust and alignment on strategic interests.

In a symbolic and powerful gesture, Angola condemned the Pahalgam terror attacks, aligning itself with Indias stance on terrorism and offering solidarity at a crucial moment. This move reflects a deeper understanding of Indias security concerns and global worldview, contributing to the growing warmth in their bilateral relationship.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Technological Collaboration and Capacity Building

India also showcased its leadership in digital and technological domains during the visit. Offers to share expertise in digital public infrastructure, space technology, and e-governance were welcomed by the Angolan side. A youth exchange programme was proposed to strengthen people-to-people contacts and foster cultural understanding between the two nations.

Capacity-building initiatives in healthcare, agriculture, and education also featured prominently. Angola expressed interest in Indias affordable healthcare solutions, pharmaceutical industry, and vocational training programmes. The two countries are expected to collaborate on skilling, which could significantly benefit Angolas young population.

Environment and Sustainability

The visit saw Angola joining the International Solar Alliance (ISA) as its 123rd member, signalling a shared commitment to sustainable energy. India extended invitations to Angola to participate in the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), the Big Cat Alliance, and the Global Biofuels Alliance. These engagements reflect the broadening of bilateral cooperation into climate action and environmental conservationareas of increasing global importance.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Diplomatic and Regional Significance

The ceremonial welcome accorded to President Lourenco at Rashtrapati Bhavan, delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and his meeting with President Draupadi Murmu underscored the high-level nature of this engagement. A business forum brought together investors and stakeholders from both sides, focusing on oil, gas, mining, agriculture, and infrastructure. Besides EAM, the President also met health minister Nadda, but a meeting with Raksha Mantri fell through due to scheduling issues in the context of the Pakistan situation.

Importantly, Angola currently holds the rotating chair of the African Union (AU). In a significant diplomatic signal, India reinstated the tradition of inviting the AU Chair for a state visit. Angolas position as AU Chair adds weight to its call for an early convening of the fourth India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS-IV). Angola is expected to lobby within the AU to ensure the summit takes place during its chairmanship, potentially co-chairing the event with India.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

This visit thus has regional and continental implications. Angola is a member of several African regional economic blocs like the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA). Its support for deeper India-Africa engagement could create new momentum for multilateral cooperation across the continent.

The Road Ahead

President Lourencos visit to India has ushered in a new era of strategic partnership between the two countries. It highlighted mutual interests, ranging from energy and defence to the digital economy and climate resilience. While the relationship had previously been transactional and narrow, this visit has opened doors for a multidimensional partnership built on mutual respect, strategic alignment, and shared developmental goals.

Indias efforts to re-engage Africa, especially Lusophone Africa, are gaining traction. With Angolas renewed openness to diversifying its partnerships, the bilateral relationship is now poised to enter a new phaseone that reflects the evolving contours of South-South cooperation in a multipolar world. If follow-through measures match the diplomatic optimism, the India-Angola partnership will not only deepen but also emerge as a model for Indias broader engagement with Africa.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The author is a former ambassador to Germany, Indonesia, Ethiopia, ASEAN and the African Union. He tweets @AmbGurjitSingh. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
Delhi, realising the Chinese subversion, took the slow path to retaliation, avoiding the civilian and military installations and instead focusing on hardcore jihadi centres read more

Fifteen days after the dastardly Pahalgam attack, in which 26 people were killed after being religiously profiled, Bharat has responded with striking terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under Operation Sindoor.

Bharat precisely targeted infrastructure in Pakistan being used by terror outfits such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) for training terrorists and as hideouts. One of the major targets was the LeT headquarters in Muridke, a town near Lahore in Pakistans Punjab province.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature, the government said in a released document. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted.

On the face of it, the April 22 Pahalgam attack appears to be a typical Pakistani plot to keep Bharat bleeding and boiling. The timing seems appropriate too. The military under Gen Asim Munir has been on the back foot, given the challenge it, as an institution, has received from Imran Khan, who continues to remain the most popular Pakistani despite being in jail.

To make things worse, the condition in Balochistan is worsening by the day, and so is the situation in Pakistans wild tribal west. Since nothing unites a divided Pakistan better than Bharat, Pahalgam fits in Islamabads jihadi jigsaw. Gen Munirs two-nation statement too points in that direction.

However, there has been more to Pahalgam than meets the eye, and a closer scrutiny exposes a far more sinister plot: the growing Chinese footprints in the Pakistani misadventure. It seemed as if it were Chinese hands pulling up Pakistani bullets, hoping that Bharat would react in a jiffy  thus losing the war plot and global sympathy. Delhi, realising the Chinese subversion, took the slow path to retaliation, avoiding the civilian and military installations and instead focusing on hardcore jihadi centres.

This explains why after two weeks of no kinetic action against Pakistan, except, of course, the suspension of the 1960 Indus Water Treaty, Bharats response has been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. By confining the attack to terror centres in Pakistan and PoK, Delhi has thrown the escalatory ball back in Islamabads court. If the generals of Rawalpindi retaliate, they would be accused of pushing the escalatory button, and if they dont, the Pakistan Army would further lose its sagging reputation.

The long-term warfare also makes sense for Bharat when its adversary has fewer economic resources and limited military wherewithal to take on its eastern neighbour. The longer the war continues, the weaker Pakistan gets. Another reason to go slow could be the supposed affinity of the Pakistan Air Force with Rafale. After all, in the recently held multinational air wargames Victory Spear 2025 in Saudi Arabia, Pakistans JF-17 Block-III had trained with France-made Rafale jets.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Be that as it may, Bharat, by not rushing with the kinetic action and then confining the attack to terror centres, has kind of checked the Chinese plot. In any way, Pakistan over the decades has confined itself to being a Chinese colony, badly stuck as it is in Beijings never-ending debt trap. Islamabads external debt to China alone accounts for 22 per cent of its total external debt. With Pakistans total public debt at 74.3 per cent of the countrys GDP, Beijings economic control over Islamabad is absolute.

To add to it, China Beijing is also Pakistans largest arms supplier. Between 2010 and 2019, it supplied 70 per cent of Pakistans arms imports, worth over $5 billion. And between 2017 and 2021, 47 per cent of Chinas total global arms exports went to Pakistan. Given Pakistans jihadi nature, its obvious that sooner than later these military devices will find their way to terrorists. An intelligence report last year said that Pakistan-based terrorist outfits such as Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba were using Chinese weapons and equipment.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The Chinese plot thickens when one listens to the recent statement by the Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong, who, after meeting President Asif Ali Zardari, reaffirmed the enduring and time-tested friendship between the two countries, describing the relationship as one of ironclad brothers who have always supported each other in challenging times.

There is a dominant thinking in Xi Jinpings China that Bharats rise has to be challenged and stopped. If this is not done immediately, it might be too late. What further rankles the Chinese leadership is the emergence of Donald Trump in America openly challenging the Chinese worldview. The Xi administration is watching with great unease the coming together of Modis Bharat and Trumps America. China believes that its global ambition will be imperilled if the two powers come together.

This distrust for Trump and Modi is also pushing Europe closer to China. Europe has traditionally been anti-Russia and is equally uneasy with Bharats rise. And now with Trumps willingness to shift the American pivot eastward towards Asia and also engage with Putin, he has majorly upset the Western European powers that just cant fathom the idea of losing their position at the high global diplomatic table.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The statement by the EUs top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, urging Bharat and Pakistan to show restraint and pursue dialogue to ease the situation, adding, Escalation helps no one, should be seen in this light. The statement shows the EUs double standards, especially when it is willing to show no such restraint on the Ukraine issue. In fact, Kallas herself is on record seeking a strong action against Russia: I hope Europe learnt that appeasement only strengthens the aggressor. The aggressor will never stop unless he is stopped, she said.

Then, of course, there is Turkey, ever eager to take up the mantle of the Caliphate of the Islamic world. It has already made a few discordant voices against Bharat. Delhi will have to consider deadly drones and a few other military equipment from Turkey falling into Pakistani hands.

Its, however, America that poses the biggest dilemma for Bharat. As the saying goes, To be an enemy of the US is dangerous, but to be a friend is fatal. Trump is trying to change this American characteristic. Here, it needs to be understood that if Bharat needs the US to check the sinister Chinese design, the Americans too cannot defeat Beijing without Delhi. (Trump also needs to mend Americas ties with Russia, for Putin can be a long-term ally.) China, in fact, is the biggest stumbling block to Pax Americana, and it can be stopped by the US only in the company of Bharat. The US-led world order can withstand the Chinese assault only when Bharat is there, strong and assertive. If the US lets Bharat down after the Pahalgam attack, it would, in the long term, be harming its own cause.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Bharat has done well to see Pahalgam not just through the prism of Pakistan but as the result of a sinister plan made by a coalition of nations led by China, supported by Turkey, and given covering fire by the Western European nations. America, too, needs to wake up to this emerging challenge. Bharat may be the first major stop for Xi Jinpings China, but America will be the final frontier. There is no hope for America without the rise of Bharat.

Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
The real test and figures come out in actual wars, and the PAFs track record in the 1965 and 1971 wars was abysmal read more

In the early hours of Wednesday, India launched Operation Sindoor in response to the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which occurred a fortnight earlier. The operation targeted nine terror sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including Bahawalpur, a known stronghold of the Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Pakistan has closed its airspace for 48 hours, and the situation along the India-Pakistan border remains tense. Meanwhile, the news came that Indian Air Defence shot down Pakistans F-16 near the LoC. As such, a comparison between the airpower of both nations becomes increasingly relevant.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

A Pakistani-American, an Austin-based entrepreneur cum defence analyst, wrote an article in praise of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). He said that the PAF was on track to become the third most powerful air force in Asia. Luckily he does not say it already is. He has put his arguments across nine attributes of modern air power. Despite not being a very large air force, he believes that PAF is highly sophisticated, internally integrated, strategically autonomous, rapidly modernising, tremendously well-trained and war-ready. As per his logic, it is better than the air forces of India, Japan, Israel, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and others in Asia, and third only to China and Russia. Being a Pakistani, a very significant pro-Pakistan bias was expected. There is thus a need to look at independent rankings and specific assessments of the attributes.

Global Air Powers Ranking (2025)

The World Directory of Modern Military Aircraft (WDMMA) comes out with an annual air power ranking assessment. They take a comprehensive look at the current strengths (and inherent weaknesses) of modern military air arms across the globe. Currently, 103 countries and their 129 air arms are tracked. The criteria used include overall strength, modernisation status, logistics support, attack and defence capabilities, special and airborne forces, local aero-industry, force experience and exposure, among others.

Their 2025 global air power rankings put the US Air Force, US Navy, Russian Air Force, US Army, US Marines, Indian Air Force (IAF), Chinas PLA Air Force (PLAAF), Japanese Air Force, Israeli Air Force, French Air Force, the UKs Royal Air Force, South Korean Air Force, Italian Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force, PLA Navy Air Arm, Brazilian Air Force, Saudi Air Force and only then the Pakistan Air Force (PAF).

That means 18th position globally. As per this assessment, the IAFs air power index is 69.4, and PAFs is 46.3. Interestingly, it rates the PLAAF, which otherwise has a much larger air force, at index 63.9, mainly due to low training and war experience and also perhaps for being under constant Communist Party watch and with questionable morale. The Turkish Air Force is ranked further below at 21st position. Indian Navy Aviation is at the 27th and Indian Army Aviation at the 36th position. The Pakistan Army and Naval Aviation do not even feature in the list. Even if one was to presume a few aberrations somewhere, the list seems reasonably accurate.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Global Combat Aircraft Fleets 2025

As per Global Firepower 2025, the United States boasts unparalleled air strength, surpassing the combined aerial capabilities of Russia, China, India, South Korea, and Japan, owing to nearly 40 per cent of global military spending. Russia ranks second, having about one-third of Americas air capacity, and is followed by China, holding the third position in air power globally, rapidly advancing its capabilities through significant investments in technology.

Military aircraft fleet numbers comparison: the US (13,043), Russia (4,292), China (3,309), India (2,229), South Korea (1,592), Japan (1,443), Pakistan (1,399), Egypt (1,093), Turkey (1,083), and France (976). The figures for the Largest Air Forces in the World 2025 with the World Population Review are somewhat similar with minor variations in numbers and positions. Statista places IAF at 4th position and PAF at 7th position by numbers. IAF has 135,000 active personnel, compared to PAFs 70,000.

Fighter Aircraft

Let us analyse PAF fighter aircraft based on Open Sources Intelligence (OSINT). Pakistan has approximately 450 fighter aircraft. PAF began inducting the Chinese Chengdu J-10CE Vigorous Dragon multirole jets on 11 March 2022. 20 J-10CEs have been delivered; 16 more are on order. PAF has 156 Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) JF-17 Thunder China-designed multirole aircraft that began inducting in February 2010. Of these, there are 50 JF-17 A Block 1, 62 JF-17A Block 2, 26 JF-17B Block 2, and 23 JF-17 C Block 3. 27 more Block 3 are on order. All Block 1 and 2 JF-17s will be upgraded to Block 3 standard one day. They have 75 Lockheed Martin (earlier General Dynamics) F-16 Fighting Falcon multirole fighters that began inducting in January 1983. These are of different upgrade statuses. 31 are F-16AM Block 15 MLU, 23 are F-16BM Block 15 MLU, 15 are Block 15 ADF, 12 are F-16C Block 52+, and 6 are F-16D Block 52+. Even the Block 52+, at best, is inferior in standard to the Mirage-2000 upgrade.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The remaining 58 ageing Dassault Mirage III multiroles that are of 1968 vintage (three decades older than the MiG-21 Bison) are being replaced by the Chinese fighters. The same is true of 1970s vintage 78 Dassault Mirage 5 attack/reconnaissance fighters. They are being sustained by reducing maintenance by creating Christmas trees of many aircraft. Yes, some of them can carry the Iranian-Pakistani Raad cruise missile, a reverse-engineered version of Chinas Silkworm anti-ship missile, and also the Chinese H4/H2 glide bombs. The world saw the performance and accuracy of these bombs in February 2019 when they hit a few kilometres from the actual target. PAF also has around 50 Chinese J-7 (license-built MiG-21). As Mirages retired, PAF will mostly be of Chinese origin. The quality of Chinese products is well known, and PAF was forced to insist on Russian engines for their Chinese fighters.

In turn, as per OSINT, the IAF is known to have 36 Dassault Rafale, 40 Tejas Mk1, 260 Su-30 MKI, 60 upgraded MiG-29, 47 upgraded Mirage-2000, 115 SEPECAT Jaguars strike aircraft including those with a maritime role, and 40 MiG 21 Bison. The clear edge in numbers and capability is visible.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Yes, PAF is talking to China about getting J-35 fifth-generation fighters. The deal is still to be signed. The earliest timelines could be the early 2030s. They are also working with Turkey on the still-under-development Turkish KAI KAAN, of which only one prototype has been built, and even Turkey will induct it in the early 2030s. While India is developing its own Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), interim options of a matured fifth-generation fighter are also being explored. There is also a proposal to join the multinational Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) sixth-generation fighter program.

Currently IAF has 31 fighter squadrons vis-a-vis PAFs 18 squadrons. Among the 4th+ generation aircraft are the Su-30MKI, Rafale, Mirage 2000 and MiG-29. Their little less equivalents with Pakistan are the F-16 and J-10CE. IAF has traditionally had a 3:1 edge over PAF, which is now down to around 1.6:1. IAF must quickly rebuild its 42 squadrons.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Aerial Weapons

The Rafale can carry the Scalp-EG cruise missile (550 km range) and the Meteor Air-to-Air Missile (AAM) (150-200 km range). The Su-30 MKI and upgraded MiG-29 and Mirage-2000 are potent assets. IAF has indigenous Astra AAM, with Mk I having a range of 110 kilometres and Mk II with a range of 160 km. The MkIII under development will have a range of 350 km. Pakistan had ordered around 500 AIM-120C-5 AMRAAM missiles (100 km range). The exact numbers received are reportedly much less. The PL-12 range is 70-100 kilometres. There are unconfirmed reports that the PAF has the Chinese export variant PL-15E AAM with a range of 145 km on J-10s and also JF-17 Block IIIs. Clearly Indian AAMs have a range advantage.

IAF has a huge inventory of air-launched cruise missiles (ALCM). BrahMos missiles have a range of 450-800 km. The Kh-35 ALCM has a range of 260 kilometres. India has the Spice 2000 glide bombs with an add-on kit for 450/900 kg warheads and a CEP of less than 3 metres. Typically, its range is around 60 kilometres. The Crystal Maze 2 is a medium-range air-to-surface ballistic missile, developed by Israel and used by the IAF. Its designed for precision strikes on high-value targets, including long-range radars and air defence systems, even in GPS-denied environments. The missile has a strike range exceeding 250 kilometres. Pakistan has the Maverick air-to-ground (AGM) missile with a range of 25 kilometres and a warhead of around 100 kg. The Raad-II is a standoff and an air-launched cruise missile (ALCM) derived from the Hatf-VIII Raad and has a range of 600 kilometres and carries a 450 kg warhead. The H-2 and H-4 are SOW (Stand-Off Weapon) precision-guided glide bombs with a range of around 60 km. Both sides also have some other air-launched weapons.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Airfields & Air Defences

IAF has a clear advantage in the number of airfields, including a large number of dual-use airfields. PAF has 19 flying stations, of which around 15 will be activated in case of operations. Indian airbases facing Pakistan itself outnumber nearly 2.5:1. India today has many more motorway landing strips and has already tested out Agile Combat Environment (ACE) concepts. Pakistan too has had highway landing strips for many years. IAF airfield infrastructure, parallel runways, and hardened shelters are now of global standards.

IAF has a large inventory of S-400, Barak MR-SAM, Akash, Spyder, S-125, OSA-8 and Igla ground-based AD systems. Compared with PAFs, which have many fewer Spada-2000, Crotale, HQ-9 & HQ-16, and Anza MK-II, RBS 70 AD systems. The S-400 will force PAF combat aircraft to stay far away from the border.

Force Multipliers and Airborne Troops

PAF has 9 Saab 2000 Erieye AEW&C equipped with the Saab Erieye AEW&C system. In August 2012, during a terrorist attack on the PAF Base Minhas in Pakistan, a Saab 2000 Erieye airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft was destroyed beyond repair, and two others were damaged by shrapnel. The four Chinese ZDK-03 Shaanxi turboprop AEW&C have now been redesigned for EW, ESM, and ECM roles since 2024 after the removal of the AESA radar radome and AEW&C equipment due to compatibility issues and standardisation of PAFs AEW&C platforms with additional Saab 2000 AEW&C aircraft. IAF operates 3 IL-76 based Israeli Phalcon AEW&C, of which class PAF has none. India also has 3 DRDO Netra AEW&C, which are much more modern than the Saab-2000. India is working on more indigenous AEW&C. IAF also has two aerostats that see deep into Pakistan.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

PAF operates 4 Russian Il-78 Ilyushin cargo-cum-aerial refuelling aircraft vis-a-vis IAFs 6. For the continental size and overall threat perception IAF requires many force multipliers, for which work is in progress. The two sides can be considered at par currently. PAF is negotiating for Chinese KJ-500 turbo-prop AEW&C based on the Chinese Y-9 platform.

India has a clear advantage in the number of airborne troops. India has 12 C-130 J-40 Special Forces penetration aircraft. India also has a much larger fleet of transport aircraft and helicopters.

ELINT and EW Aircraft

India has 10 dedicated ELINT/reconnaissance aircraft and a significant fleet of UAV-based ISR fleet. PAF has three Dassault Falcon DA-20 and one Bombardier Global 6000 EW aircraft. Adding the four Shaanxi aircraft, they have a total of eight. IAF has no dedicated EW platform as of date. All IAF fighters have EW self-protection and jammers. PAF has an edge in dedicated EW aircraft. PAFs edge in unencrypted Radio and R/T jamming facilities has since been neutralised by better Indian systems.

Network-Centric Warfare, Space and Cyber Domains

While the PAF has had its own Link-17 datalink for some time, the IAF now has its own indigenously developed data-link and Software Defined Radio (SDR). These are combined with a very advanced Integrated Air Command & Control System (IACCS) for air defence operations. IACCS uses secure AFNET to link all the airborne sensors and ground radars and share meaningful data with the different command & control nodes. India also uses its own satellites for encrypted radio signals. India is a leading space power and also has very significant cyber capability. Pakistan is totally China-dependent on both these counts.

Unmanned Systems

Pakistan has a substantial fleet of Chinese, Turkish and home-grown UAVs. Close to 80 HALE/MALE platforms, including around two dozen UCAVs. India has a large fleet of HALE/MALE and much larger numbers of surveillance and attack drones. India has a large inventory of loitering munitions, including Harop and Harpy classes. Indias private sector is huge in drone manufacturing now. Conflict in Ukraine and in West Asia has shown that HALE/MALE could be sitting ducks in a contested environment. Clearly, sides with larger numbers of loitering munitions will have the edge. These may be required in hundreds of thousands. The side with a better economy will be able to sustain such production or purchases.

Exercise and Combat Exposure

IAF is high on pilot training. IAF has had one of the best exercise exposures, with over 20 multilateral air exercises in the last two years. Despite superior F-86 Sabres and the F-104s in the 1965 and 1971 wars, Indian Gnats and MiG-21s hammered the PAF in air combat. PAF is essentially a defensive force, whereas India goes deep inside to hit strategic and tactical targets. Notwithstanding the denial and the DG ISPRs fake narrative IAF hit a major terrorist camp at Jaba Top near Balakot, and a MiG-21 Bison shot down a PAF F-16.

Comprehensive National Power (CNP)

The global CNP index depends on factors such as military capabilities, economic capabilities, economic relationships, future resources, cultural influence, diplomatic influence, resilience, and defence networks. The Lowy Institutes Asia Power Index puts the US, China, India, Japan, Australia, and Russia as the top six in Asia in that order. Pakistan is at 16th position.

According to the IMFs World Economic Outlook, Indias nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is expected to surpass Japan in 2025, making India the fourth-largest economy globally. Specifically, Indias GDP is projected to be $4,187.017 billion. In 2025, Pakistans GDP is projected to be around $357.0 billion.

In 2024, Pakistans defence budget for 2024-25 was equivalent to $7 billion. Indias is $78.3 billion for 2025-26. Indias domestic defence production reached Rs 1,26,887 crore in 2023-24. India has set an ambitious annual defence production outlay of Rs 1.75 lakh crore for FY25, which is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 20 per cent to Rs 3 lakh crore (as per the Ministry of Defence) by FY29. Defence exports surged to Rs 23,622 crore (approx. US$ 2.76 billion) in the financial year 2024-25. The bulk of the exports were by the private sector. In 2023 Pakistans defence exports were $338,000. Pakistan faces critical shortages of artillery and has ammunition worth four days of war. They are highly dependent on China and Turkey for defence supplies. Unlike in the past, most Arab states, like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are much closer to India. Amid simmering geopolitical tensions with Pakistan, global ratings agency Moodys says Indias economy is unlikely to face major disruptionseven in the event of a sustained flare-up.

To Summarise

The real test and figures come out in actual wars. PAFs track record in the 1965 and 1971 wars is well known. The famous Keelor brothers shot F-86 Sabres flying Folland Gnats in 1965, and Gnat became known as the Sabre Slayer. Pakistan had to send its aircraft to Iran and other countries during these wars lest they get shot up. The score in the air battle over Boyra on November 22, 1971, between IAFs Gnats and PAFs Sabre aircraft was two Sabres shot down and pilots captured and one Sabre badly damaged, against zero IAF loss. The IAF had complete air superiority over East Pakistan within two days of the 1971 war; the PAF were grounded, and their pilots had to be evacuated. In the Western Sector, IAF MiG-21 fighters shot down PAF F-104 Starfighters. Two kills were confirmed, and two other F-104s were critically damaged. The first supersonic air combat in the subcontinent occurred when an Indian MiG-21FL claimed a PAF F-104A with its GSh-23 cannon.

What IAF did to the Pakistani tanks in Longewala is already military folklore. That Sui gas plant and Karachi refinery were set aflame cannot be denied. That India could split the country into two is a fact of history. With 93,000 prisoners of war, it was the largest surrender after WWII.

The JF-17s sold to Myanmar are grounded with airframe cracks. Nigeria has burnt its fingers by buying three aircraft. In any case, all the sales are being coordinated by China through back channels. Bulk of the aircraft parts are still from China.

Pakistan is a country that is a fountainhead of global terrorism. Pakistan has had a hand in every major terror incident. It double-crossed the US by taking its funds and acting against it and also keeping Osama Bin Laden in an army cantonment for years. It deceived the US during their 20 years in Afghanistan by making sure the Americans failed. Pakistan is doing the same to Iron Brother China in Xinjiang. Today there are multiple secessionist movements in Pakistan, with Baloch, Sindhis, Pashtuns, and Baltis all rising against the Punjabi Musalman, who treats all others as lower beings.

Chanakyas timeless doctrine says, Before you crush the snake, ensure it has exhausted its venom. Before the operation, Pakistan was being bled dry through diplomatic and other non-kinetic tactics like the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty. After the operation, the IAF stands tall and is fully prepared to repeat what it did in past wars and much more.

The writer is former Director General, Centre for Air Power Studies. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
Pakistani troops fired heavy shells across the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmirs Karnah area early Wednesday, just two hours after Indias air strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and PoJK. read more

Eight civilians were killed and 25 injured after Pakistani troops carried out heavy cross-border shelling along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Karnah area of Kupwara district early on Wednesday.

This came just two hours after India launched in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, officials said.

Three innocent civilians lost their lives in indiscriminate firing/shelling. The Indian Army is responding in a proportionate manner, the Indian Army said in a statement. Heavy artillery exchange is still ongoing along the LoC, according to sources.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Officials said Pakistan violated the ceasefire agreement by firing shells at Indian positions. The Indian Army is retaliating strongly. They added that residents of Karnah have taken shelter in underground bunkers, and the exchange of fire was continuing at the time of the latest reports.

In response to the deadly Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 people, the Indian armed forces carried out missile strikes early Wednesday on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including Bahawalpur, a known stronghold of the Jaish-e-Mohammad group.

The strikes were conducted under , the Defence Ministry said in a statement issued at 1:44 am, describing the action as focused, measured, and non-escalatory.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the strikes as an act of war and said Pakistan reserves the right to respond appropriately.

In a post on X in Hindi shortly after the strikes, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said: Long live Mother India! (Bharat Mata Ki Jai).
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has dubbed Indian strikes on terrorist sites under Operation Sindoor as an act of war and has vowed retaliation read more

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, along with Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of Pakistan Asim Munir, reviews the parade at the passing out ceremony of 151st Long Course at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul, Abbottabad, Pakistan, April 26, 2025. Press Information Department of Pakistan via Reuters

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has dubbed Indian strikes on terrorist facilities under Operation Sindoor as an act of war.

In a statement on X, Shehbaz vowed to mount a response to Indian strikes.

Pakistan has every right to respond fully to this act of war imposed by India and a full response is being given. The entire nation stands with the Pakistan Armed Forces and the morale and spirit of the entire Pakistani nation are high, said Shehbaz.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

India attacked nine terrorist sites in Pakistan-proper and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK) in the early hours of Wednesday, acording to a statement from the Ministry of Defence.

The sites that were attacked were those from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed, the statement read.

Pakistan has said that at least eight people were killed in Indian strikes and 35 were injured.

Last night, Pakistani military had said that India attacked with missiles fired from the Indian airspace. The military said India struck sites in Punjab provinces Bahwalpur and Muridke POJKs Kotli and Muzaffarabad.

Pakistan Army spokesman Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said India launched at least 24 missiles at six locations, according to Geo TV.

Among major targets that India struck were JeMs strongholds in Pakistani Punjabs Bahawalpur and Muridke where at least 25-30 terrorists were killed, sources told India Today.

JeM has its headquarter in Bahawalpur whereas Lashkar-e-Taibas HQ is in Muridke.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Sources further said that India struck the LeTs HQ at Muridke in Pakistans Punjab.
As Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warns India of consequences and Defence Minister Khawaja Asif openly talks of war, Pakistan appears to be setting stage for an escalation. Whether Pakistan really wants an escalation would reflect in its choice of targets in any attack on India. read more

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, along with Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of Pakistan Asim Munir, reviews the parade at the passing out ceremony of 151st Long Course at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul, Abbottabad, Pakistan, April 26, 2025. Press Information Department of Pakistan via Reuters

Pakistan appears to be setting the stage for an escalation with India.

Shortly after Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that Operation Sindoor amounted to declaration of war by India, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in an address to the nation said that India will have to suffer the consequences of last nights military action.

Minutes after Shehbazs address, the Pakistani military announced that the National Security Committee chaired by Shehbaz had authorised the military to respond to the Indian military action at the time and place of their choice. The military framed the exercise as part of a self-defence exercise.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In consonance with Article 51 of the UN Charter, Pakistan reserves the right to respond, in self-defence, at a time, place, and manner of its choosing to avenge the loss of innocent Pakistani lives and blatant violation of its sovereignty. The armed forces of Pakistan have duly been authorised to undertake corresponding actions in this regard, said Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, the principal military spokesperson.

The Article 51 of the UN Charter allows members a right to self defence if they are under attack.

Under Operation Sindoor, India ensured that Pakistani civilian or government sites, including military sites, were not hit. India only struck nine sites belonging to terrorist organisations Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and Hizbul Mujahideen in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK).

Is Pakistan really looking for an escalation?

Whether Pakistan is really looking for an escalation or worse a war depends on how it strikes India  if and when it strikes.

The initial understanding was that the fact that India struck terrorist sites and not a military or civilian site would make Pakistan conduct some token strikes and seek an off-ramp. However, the rhetoric through the day suggests the nation is setting the stage for an escalation.

ALSO READ: Operation Sindoor: As jihad drives Pakistan, India can only impose costs  deterrence is impossible

Throughout the day, Pakistan raised the issue of deaths of women and children at terrorist sites struck by India  without explaining why these purported non-combatants were present at sites of internationally-designated terrorist organisations if at all they were there. PM Shehbaz, President Asif Ali Zardari, and Army chief General Asim Munir attended funerals in an attempt to muster support and rally people around the flag.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

With such pretext-setting developments, the initial understanding that Pakistan would seek an off-ramp does not appear to hold true anymore.

All indications suggest that Pakistan would strike India  at the time and place of the militarys choice as per the NSCs authorisation.

Whether Pakistan is looking for an escalation or a war would reflect in the targets it would choose in its strikes, says Yusuf Unjhawala, a scholar of geopolitics at the Takshashila Institution.

To be sure, Pakistani strikes can very well pave a way for an off-ramp as well.

Unjhawala tells Firstpost, If Pakistan wants an escalation, it would hit Indian military targets forcefully. The nature of military targets would also matter. Some military sites mean more than the others. For example, if Pakistan would hit airbases, that could very well be an act of war. But strikes in vast open fields in military stations could make way for an off-ramp as such strikes would fulfil Pakistans commitment to respond and allow India to say that Pakistan was stopped from inflicting any damage.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

However, there is one complication regarding Pakistans retaliation, says Unjhawala.

Unlike India, Pakistan does not have any terrorist sites to hit in India as India does not run terrorist camps. That could make it fabricate targets. Pakistan might target isolated structures or settlements in border states, such as Rajasthan or Gujarat, and claim that those settlements were training camps for Baloch insurgents or other groups sponsored by India. If such strikes turn out to be a dud, that would make way for an off-ramp. But any civilian casualties would force India to respond, says Unjhawala.

In the Pakistani social media, there is no doubt that Pakistan would attack India. Well-connected commentators have been saying that strikes deep inside India, as deep as Maharashtra or Deccan, are on the cards. Such strikes would leave little doubt about its intentions.
The Indian embassy in Beijing has slammed the Chinese Communist Partys mouthpiece for amplifying dis-information read more

India carried out missile strikes on nine terror-related locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. AP

The Indian embassy in China on Wednesday (May 7) schooled the Chinese Communist Partys mouthpiece, Global Times, over publishing fake claims made by Pakistan regarding the shooting down of Indian fighter jets.

The Global Times earlier reported, citing sources in the Pakistan military, that Pakistan has shot down three Indian fighter jets in response to cross-border strikes by Indian forces.

However, the Indian embassy in Beijing later today slammed the tabloid for amplifying dis-information.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Here is what the Indian embassy wrote on X:

Dear Global Times, we would recommend you verify your facts and cross-examine your sources before pushing out this kind of dis-information.

Several pro-Pakistan handles are spreading baseless claims in the context of Operation Sindoor, attempting to mislead the public. When media outlets share such information without verifying sources, it reflects a serious lapse in responsibility and journalistic ethics.

PIB Fact Check had brought to light instances of fake news with old images showing crashed aircrafts being re-circulated in various forms in the current context of Operation Sindoor. While one is from an earlier incident involving an Indian Air Force (IAF) MiG-29 fighter jet that crashed in Rajasthan in September 2024, the other is an IAF MiG-21 fighter jet from Punjab in 2021.

Allow us to bring to your knowledge facts of the issue. On April 22, 2025, Pakistani and Pakistan-trained terrorists belonging to the Lashkar-e-Taiba carried out a savage terror attack on Indian tourists at Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir in India.

They targeted a particular community by asking people to identify themselves by their religion and murdered 26 people, including one national of Nepal, causing the largest number of civilian casualties in a terrorist attack in India since the 26 November 2008 attacks in Mumbai.

The attack in Pahalgam was marked by extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head-shots from close range and in front of their families.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of the killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message.

A group calling itself The Resistance Front (TRF) has claimed responsibility for the attack. This group is a front for the UN-proscribed Pakistani terrorist group, Lashkar-e-Taiba.

India had given inputs about the TRF in the half-yearly report to the Monitoring Team of the UNs 1267 Sanctions Committee in May and November 2024, bringing out its role as a cover for Pakistan-based terrorist groups.

Earlier too, in December 2023, India had informed the monitoring team about LeT and Jaish-e-Mohammad operating through small terror groups such as the TRF. Pakistans pressure to remove references to TRF in the April 25 UN Security Council Press Statement is notable in this regard.

Pakistans long track record of perpetrating cross-border terror in India is well documented, and beyond question. Pakistan also has a well-deserved reputation as a haven for terrorists from around the world, with internationally proscribed terrorists enjoying immunity there.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The UN Security Council on 25th April 2025 had issued a Press Statement on the Pahalgam terror attack, underlining the need to hold perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of this reprehensible act of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice.

Despite a fortnight having passed since the attacks, there has been no demonstrable step from Pakistan to take action against the terrorist infrastructure on its territory or on territory under its control.

Instead, all it has indulged in are denials and allegations. Our intelligence monitoring of Pakistan-based terrorist modules indicated that further attacks against India were impending.

There was thus a compulsion both to deter and to pre-empt.

India accordingly exercised its right to respond and pre-empt as well as deter more such cross-border attacks. These actions were measured, non-escalatory, proportionate, and responsible. They focused on dismantling the terrorist infrastructure and disabling terrorists likely to be sent across to India.

The world must show zero tolerance for terrorism.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
PIB stated that the widely circulated image is from a 2024 incident involving an Indian Air Force (IAF) MiG-29 fighter jet that crashed in Barmer, Rajasthan read more

Amidst heightened military tensions between India and Pakistan, several false claims and counter-claims have emerged on social media, primarily circulated by Pakistani news channels and X accounts. This wave of misinformation and propaganda warfare broke out after India carried out missile strikes on nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on early Wednesday (May 7).

Many of these claims have now been debunked by independent fact-checkers and observers. Here are some of them:

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Following the conclusion of Operation Sindoor, numerous posts surfaced on X alleging that Pakistan has retaliated by striking 15 locations within India. Some posts falsely claimed that the Pakistan Air Force attacked the Srinagar Airbase, destroyed an Indian Army Brigade Headquarters, and hit fighter jets. Many of these claims were spread by accounts with a large number of followers that have previously shown support for Pakistans Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). However, analysts have stated that there is no reliable satellite imagery or video evidence to back up these claims.

The Press Information Bureau (PIB) of India dismissed these claims in a post on X. The PIB in its post confirmed that the claim was fake.

Social media posts falsely claims that Pakistan destroyed Indian Brigade Headquarters.#PIBFactCheck



 This claim is #FAKE



 Please avoid sharing unverified information and rely only on official sources from the Government of India for accurate information. pic.twitter.com/9W5YLjBubp  PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 7, 2025

The video shared is old and NOT from India. The video is from sectarian clashes that took place in the year 2024, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Rely only on official Government of India sources for authentic Information, the PIB said in a statement.

In a video shared by several pro-Pakistan handles, it is being falsely claimed that the Pakistan Airforce has targeted Srinagar airbase#PIBFactCheck



 The video shared is old and NOT from India.



The video is from sectarian clashes that took place in the year 2024, in pic.twitter.com/vPmMq4IWdE  PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 7, 2025

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

One video from 2024 was also shared by some handles and Pakistani media, claiming it to be a downed Indian fighter jet in Pakistan Armys retaliation.

That claim is fake. The widely circulated image is of a crashed MiG-29 from 2024. The PIB stated, The image is from an earlier incident involving an Indian Air Force (IAF) MiG-29 fighter jet that crashed in Barmer, Rajasthan, in September 2024.

An old image showing a crashed aircraft is being re-circulated by pro-Pakistan handles in various forms in the current context of #OperationSindoor#PIBFactcheck



The image is from an earlier incident involving an Indian Air Force (IAF) MiG-29 fighter jet that crashed in pic.twitter.com/6NJQvRH7KJ  PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 7, 2025

On Wednesday, the Indian armed forces launched  Operation Sindoor, a swift and targeted military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. The operation focused on striking terrorist infrastructure both in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

In an official statement, the Ministry of Defence confirmed that nine terror-linked sites were hit with precision. Importantly, the strikes did not target any Pakistani military facilities, highlighting that the operation was aimed strictly at eliminating terror bases and avoiding direct military escalation.
Trump said the US maintains friendly ties with both India and Pakistan and wants the tensions to come to an end, adding, If I can do anything to help, I will be there. read more

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday called for India and Pakistan to halt their fighting and offered to help as the world saw the worst violence between the nuclear-armed countries in two decades.

I want to see them stop, AFP quoted Trump as saying at the White House.

He said the US has friendly relations with both countries and wants the tensions to be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.

And if I can do anything to help, I will be there, he added.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Trumps remarks came shortly after Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif vowed to strike back after Indias attack on nine terror hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

We resolve that we will avenge the blood of our innocent martyrs, Aljazeera quoted Sharif as saying in address to the nation.

Pakistani prime minister also praised his countrys air force following a claim that it downed 5 Indian jets.

Last night, we showed that Pakistan can deliver a jaw-breaking response for its defence. At the Line of Control, the dogfight raged for about an hour. Pakistani pilots remained in their airspace, the enemys planes were shattered to pieces, he claimed, adding, In conventional warfare last night, we proved that Pakistan prevailed.

Meanwhile, India has warned Pakistan to behave or get punished if it chooses to retaliate.

According to a News18 report, citing top government sources, India has identified additional terror hubs and is prepared to deliver a befitting reply if Pakistan escalates.India is not scared to continue its fight against terror. India is willing to teach Pakistan a lesson yet again, News 18 quoted the sources as saying.

Behave well or get punished, they added.

In direct message to Pakistan, the sources said there will be no leniency on the non-military front.

With inputs from agencies
Shortly after the Indian forces mission against Pakistan terror camps, Islamabad divulged into sharing false information and fake videos. Sometimes even top Pakistani officials joined the propaganda machine read more

After the Pahalgam terror attack, tempers are high between India and Pakistan with the possibility of a military confrontation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. Shutterstock

Shortly after Indias Operation Sindoor against nine terror camps in Pakistan, Islamabad has hoped on to its propaganda machine and has been spreading one misinformation after another. Pro-Pakistan social media handles and even influential political figures used their entire day to deliberately spread fake news.

Many of them also indulged in fabricating stories of miraculous military victories and heroic retaliation, all made out of thin air. Several social media accounts have been sharing outdated images, misrepresenting old videos, and inventing completely fabricated claims. One government source told Network18 that all this fake news is part of Pakistans age-old playbook.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Propaganda Alert!



Beware of old images shared by pro-Pakistan handles in the present context!



An #old image showing a crashed aircraft is being circulated with the claim that Pakistan recently shot down an Indian Rafale jet near Bahawalpur during the ongoing #OperationSindoor pic.twitter.com/LdkJ1JYuH0  PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 7, 2025

Their goal is clear  to flood the information space with falsehoods so quickly and overwhelmingly that it becomes difficult to separate fact from fiction. This is not just misinformation; it is a calculated, coordinated campaign designed to distort reality, mislead the public, and manipulate perceptions across the region, the government source told Network18.

Old images and videos circulated by Pakistani accounts

One of the most prominent aspects of Pakistans propaganda machine is the spreading of old videos and images. For example, one of the viral images falsely claims that the Pakistan Army had shot down an Indian Rafale jet near Bahawalpur. The image, however, was debunked by PIB Fact Check. The PIB confirmed that the image was from a MiG-21 crash in Moga, Punjab, in 2021.

Some of these lies are also spread by Pakistans Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during his addresses after the Indian operation. There was another video falsely claiming that the Indian Army raised a white flag and surrendered at Chora Post.

In a video shared by several pro-Pakistan handles, it is being falsely claimed that the Pakistan Airforce has targeted Srinagar airbase#PIBFactCheck



 The video shared is old and NOT from India.



The video is from sectarian clashes that took place in the year 2024, in pic.twitter.com/vPmMq4IWdE  PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 7, 2025

The fabricated video was also shared by Pakistans Minister Attaullah Tarar, who publicly endorsed the claim without any evidence. By sharing such a frivolous post, Tarrar managed to give it an official weight.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Another example of this was the video that claimed that the Pakistan Air Force targeted the Srinagar airbase. In reality, the footage was from the sectarian clashes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, that occurred in early 2024. Another rumour that took over the internet was that Pakistan destroyed an Indian Brigade Headquarters, a claim that has no basis in fact and has been entirely fabricated, according to defence sources, News18 reported.

Pakistans Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also participated in spreading false information that Indian soldiers were captured during the recent military strikes. Asif claimed that Indian soldiers had been taken prisoner following Pakistans response to Indias Operation Sindoor. However, these claims were promptly dismissed as false, with no evidence to support the assertion of captured soldiers.

Interestingly, the Pakistani defence minister later backtracked on the statement and acknowledged that no Indian soldiers were taken into custody. The government sources have been calling it a strategic use of misinformation.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
In a major counter-terror operation, the Indian Army said Justice is served after carrying out precision strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir early Wednesday under Operation Sindoor. read more

In a major counter-terror move, the Indian Army carried out precision strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on early Wednesday as part of Operation Sindoor and said that Justice is served.

Justice is Served. Jai Hind!, the Indian Army said in a post on X.

The Defence Ministry said the targeted sites were being used to plan and coordinate attacks on India.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The strikes comes after the deadly terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam on April 22, which killed 26 tourists.

In a statement released at 1:44 am, the Press Information Bureau described the operation as focused, measured, and non-escalatory. It added that Indian forces showed restraint by avoiding Pakistani military sites and striking only nine terror-linked locations.

In response to the deadly Pahalgam massacre in which Pakistan based terrorists killed 26 people, Indian armed forces launched missile strikes early Wednesday on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including Bahawalpur, a stronghold of the Jaish-e-Mohammad group.

The Defence Ministry said the strikes, carried out under Operation Sindoor, were focused, measured, and non-escalatory.

In a post on X in Hindi shortly after the strikes, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said: Long live Mother India! (Bharat Mata Ki Jai).

Pakistan Army spokesman Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said that missile strikes were carried out by India at Kotli and Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Bahawalpur in Punjab.

Some time ago, India launched air strikes in Bahawalpurs Ahmed East area, Kotli and Muzaffarabad at three places from the air, he told ARY News channel.

All of our air force jets are airborne. This cowardly and shameful attack was carried out from within Indias airspace. They were never allowed to come and intrude into the space of Pakistan, he said.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Let me say it unequivocally: Pakistan will respond to this at a time and place of its own choosing. This heinous provocation will not go unanswered, he added.

Indias actions came two weeks after the Pahalgam terror attack triggered widespread outrage in India and abroad.

These steps come in the wake of the barbaric Pahalgam terrorist attack in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were murdered, the Indian Defence Ministry statement said.

We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable, it said.

All air defence units have been put on alert along the frontier with Pakistan, people familiar with the matter said.

The top military brass of India was closely monitoring the operation, they said.

With inputs from PTI.
China to adopt more proactive macroeconomic policies, confident of achieving annual growth target of around 5%: finance minister

Global Times) 10:23, May 07, 2025

China's Finance Minister Lan Fo'an speaks at the 58th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Asian Development Bank being held in Milan, Italy from May 4 to May 7, 2025. (Photo/The Chinese Ministry of Finance)

China will adopt more proactive macroeconomic policies and is confident of achieving its economic growth target of around 5 percent for 2025, China's Finance Minister Lan Fo'an said at the 58th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), according to the Ministry of Finance on Tuesday.

Lan said that China is a beneficiary of and contributor to economic globalization. In recent years, its contribution to global economic growth has remained at about 30 percent. He noted that China's economy has gotten off to a good start this year, with GDP growing by 5.4 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of this year.

China will adopt more proactive macroeconomic policies and is confident that it will achieve the growth target of around 5 percent in 2025, Lan said.

China will continue to build a unified domestic market, expand high-level opening-up, share China's development opportunities and dividends with the world, especially Asia-Pacific countries, work together to meet the challenges of the times, and create a better future for the Asia Pacific, Lan added.

Lan said that the current international situation is becoming more turbulent and chaotic, and unilateralism and protectionism are on the rise. In particular, a certain country has recently launched tariff war and trade war, which have brought unprecedented huge risks to the global economy, the Chinese finance minister said.

All members should work together, uphold the spirit of openness, inclusiveness, unity and cooperation, respect the rules of multilateral institutions, and inject more certainty and positive energy into global economic development, Lan said.

The Chinese side calls on the ADB to hold high the banner of multilateralism, play the role of a multilateral cooperation platform, promote all members to strengthen policy coordination, help developing members accelerate their economic development and deepen regional cooperation, Lan said.

The 58th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the ADB is being held in Milan, Italy from Sunday to Wednesday, according to the Ministry of Finance.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
Indian forces targeted 21 locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under Operation Sindoor, not 9 as previously reported, security officials confirmed. read more

A Pakistan army soldier examines a building damaged during India's Operation Sindoor near Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. AP

In Operation Sindoor, the Indian Armed Forces targetted 21 locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), significantly more than the nine sites mentioned in the earlier media note, security officials said during a press briefing.

Col Sofiya Qureshi counter as many as 21 locations targeted in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which are, Sawai Nala, Syed Na Bilal, Maskar-e-Aqsa, Chelabandi, Abdullah bin Masood, Dulai, Garhi Habibullah, Batrasi, Balakot, Oghi, Boi, Senasa, Gulpur, Kotli, Barali, Dungi, Barnala, Mehmuna Joya, Sarjal, Muridke, and Bahawalpur.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Col. Sofiya Qureshi said, No military installation was targeted, and till now there are no reports of civilian casualties in Pakistan.

#WATCH | Delhi | #OperationSindoor| Col. Sofiya Qureshi, while addressing the media, presents videos showing destroyed terror camps, including Sarjal camp, Sialkot, which lies 6 km inside Pakistan.



It's the camp where those terrorists involved in the killing of 4 Jammu & Kashmir pic.twitter.com/HYxsU2HUg4  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

Earlier, the government said that, Indian armed forces launched missile strikes early Wednesday on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold in Bahawalpur and the Lashkar-e-Taiba base in Muridke.

These strikes were part of Operation Sindoor, which comes two weeks after the massacre of 26 civilians in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam.

The defence ministry said in a statement at 1:44 am that the operation targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK, from where attacks against India have been planned and directed. The ministry added that the action was focused, measured and non-escalatory and clarified that no Pakistani military facilities had been targeted.

According to news agency PTI, the strikes on all targets, including Bahawalpur and Muridke, were successful. Prime Minister Narendra Modi closely monitored the operation.

Muridke, located near Lahore, is home to the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) base, while Bahawalpur is a major stronghold of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Other targets like Kotli and Muzaffarabad are known for having LeT and JeM camps and training facilities.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The name Operation Sindoor was chosen to symbolise the red vermillion Hindu women wear to signify their married status. The Pahalgam attack had left several women widowed, including the wife of an Indian Navy officer, further deepening the nations outrage.

The operation comes in response to the barbaric Pahalgam terrorist attack, which claimed the lives of 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen, the defence ministry said.
Operation Sindoor is one of Indias biggest counter-terror strikes in recent years. The Indian Armed Forces hit nine terror sites in Pakistan and PoK late Wednesday night in response to the Pahalgam attack. read more

Operation Sindoor by the Indian Armed Forces on in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) late on Wednesday night marks one of Indias most significant retaliatory actions in recent years, following the Balakot airstrikes in 2019 and the surgical strikes after the Uri attack in 2016.

While the exact details of the operation and the weapons used remain unclear, it is believed that the Indian forces used high-precision missile strikes.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The forces targeted nine in Pakistan and PoK, including locations in Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot in Pakistans Punjab, as well as Muzaffarabad and Kotli in PoK. These areas are known to host terror camps.

Here is the list of the nine locations hit by the Indian strikes in response to the Pahalgam attack:

Bahawalpur: About 100 km from the International Border; headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).

Muridke: Around 30 km from the border near Samba; Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) training camp.

Gulpur: Located 35 km from the LoC in the Poonch-Rajouri area.

Sawai: LeT camp 30 km inside PoK, in the Tangdhar sector.

Bilal Camp: A known JeM launchpad.

Kotli Camp: LeT camp 15 km from the LoC, opposite Rajouri.

Barnala Camp: Around 10 km from the LoC, also opposite Rajouri.

Sarjal Camp: JeM facility about 8 km from the International Border near Samba-Kathua.

Mehmoona Camp: Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) training camp, 15 km from the border near Sialkot.

Bahawalpur, headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed

Bahawalpur, located near the Rajasthan border across the Thar Desert, is a well-known stronghold of the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group, led by Maulana Masood Azhar. Azhar was one of three terrorists released by India in exchange for the passengers of hijacked Indian Airlines flight IC-814 in December 1999. He was born in Bahawalpur in 1968.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

India conducts Operation Sindoor

In response to the deadly Pahalgam attack that killed 26 people, the Indian Armed Forces launched missile strikes early Wednesday on nine terror targets in Pakistan and PoK, including Bahawalpur.

The strikes were part of Operation Sindoor, the Ministry of Defence said in a statement issued at 1:44 am. It added that the action was focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature.

The Indian statement read, A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. It further stated: No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution.

In a post on X in Hindi shortly after the strikes, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, Long live Mother India! (Bharat Mata Ki Jai).

Justice is served: Indian Army

Following Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army posted on X, Justice is served. The operation came days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave the armed forces full freedom to respond to the Pahalgam terror attack.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

PM Modi monitoring Operation Sindoor through the night

Prime Minister Narendra Modi closely monitored Operation Sindoor through the night as the Indian Armed Forces carried out precision strikes on terror groups and their hideouts in Pakistan and PoK, news agency ANI reported.
Operation Sindoor was Bharats precision military response to the Pahalgam terror attack, targeting jihadi infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK while deliberately avoiding escalation with the Pakistani military. Image: Indian Army

The Indian forces on Wednesday conducted a tri-service mission called , rattling 9 terror camps in Pakistan. These terror sites belonged to three key terrorist groups that have been operating in Pakistan and have often been responsible for causing turbulence in India.

The operation was conducted in response to the April 22 Pahalgam attack that led to the death of 26 tourists in Kashmir. According to the briefing shared by the Ministry of Defence, the operation was carried out in just 25 minutes. It started at 1:05 am and ended at 1:30 am.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The precision strikes targeted three prime terror groups operating in Pakistan - Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and Hizbul Mujahideen. The details of the operation were unveiled in a press briefing held in the national capital this afternoon, where Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh addressed the nation.

Heres a deep dive into the sites targeted under Operation Sindoor.

Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)

Markaz Taiba | Muridke, Punjab (Pakistan)

The Markaz was established in 2002 and is touted as the most important training centre of LeT located in Nangal Sahdan. It is spread across 82 acres and comprises of madrassa market, a residential area for terrorists, a fish farm and agricultural tracts.

The complex holds an arms and physical training facility, as well as for dawah and radicalisation/indoctrination for terror entities, both from within Pakistan and abroad. The Markaz enrols around 1,000 students in different courses and focuses on producing terrorists for LeT.

The construction of the complex was financed by Osama Bin Laden, who had given PKR 10 million in 2000. At the behest of Pakistans ISI, all the perpetrators of the 26/11 Mumbai attack, including Ajmal Kasab, were imparted intelligence training at this facility. David Coleman Headley & Tahawwur Hussain Rana, the prime conspirators of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, had also visited the site. Hafiz Saeed also has a house in the facility.

The LeT is designated as a Terrorist Organisation by many countries, including the UK(2001), the USA (2001), India (2002), and Australia(2003). After the 2008 Mumbai terror attack, the terror group was placed on the Consolidated List established by UNSC Resolution

1267.

Markaz Ahle Hadith Barnala | Bhimber District, PoJK

It is one of the important Markaz of LeT in PoJK and is used for infiltration of terrorists into the Poonch Rajauri - Reasi sector. The complex accommodates 100 -150 cadres, and around 40  50 cadres are usually present at this Markaz, supervising terror activities being organised from this Markaz. It is also utilised as a staging centre for LeT terrorists before infiltrating into Indian territory.

Shawai Nallah Camp | Muzaffarabad, PoJK

The complex is used for the recruitment, registration and training of LeT cadres and has been functional since the early 2000s. This camp is also known as Huzaifa Bin Yemen and Bait-ul-Mujahideen camp and includes a firing range, a training ground, LeT Madrassa for cadres and around 40 rooms.

LeT has been using this camp for organising refresher courses for its already trained commanders/cadres. Some of the training programs are also facilitated by Pakistans ISI. Ajmal Kasab and other terrorists involved in 26/11 had undergone training in this camp. There has been a resurgence in activities in this camp since 2023, and construction works have been going on to increase the capacity.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)

Markaz Subhan Allah | Bahawalpur, Punjab

Markaz Subhan Allah is located at NH-5, which goes from Karachi to Torkham. The target is located on the outskirts of Bahawalpur at Karachi Mor. This is assessed to be the main centre of JeM for training and indoctrination of youth, which is spread over a 15-acre

area.

The site is associated with the terrorist planning and training of the Pulwama attack on February 14, 2019. The Markaz also consists of the residences of JeM Chief Maulana Masood Azhar, de facto Chief of JeM Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar, Maulana Ammar and other family members.

Besides this, the complex also houses more than 600 cadres. Maulana Rafiqullah, former religious trainer at Markaz Usman-o-Ali, has been the chief instructor at this Markaz since mid-2022. Interestingly, the complex was built with the help of both the provisional and federal governments of Pakistan along with the funds raised by the terror groups in African and Gulf nations.

India has designated JeM as a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA) in Oct 2001. The same was done by the US (2001), UK (2001), Australia (2015), Canada ( 2002) and UAE (2014). It was ostensibly banned by Pakistan in January 2002, due to international pressure after the group claimed responsibility for the Parliament attack in December 2001.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Sarjal / Tehra Kalan facility | Shakargarh, District Narowal, Punjab

The facility is the main launching site of the JeM for infiltration of terrorists into J&K. It is located in the Shakargarh Tehsil of Narowal District in Punjab, Pakistan and is placed under the premises of a Primary Health Centre in Tehra Kalan Village, the Sarjal area to conceal its real purpose.

Pakistans ISI has facilitated the construction of the complex and included the government buildings to hide terror infrastructure. It has a proximity to J&K and serves as the base for the digging of cross-border tunnels for the infiltration of terrorists. Pakistans ISI and JeM have developed a network of underground tunnels in the Shakargarh area, which is used for infiltration of JeM cadres into India. The complex also serves as a launching base for drones, from which arms/ammunition/narcotics and warlike stores are dropped into the Indian territory.

Markaz Abbas | Kotli

The Markaz is located on Mohalla Roli Dhara Bypass Road, Kotli, PoJK and is just 02 km southeast of Kotli Military Camp. The building can accommodate around 100 - 125 JeM cadres and 40  50 JeM cadres are always present within the premises of this Markaz at any point in time.

Qari Zarrar is the head of this Markaz. Zarrar is directly involved in the planning and execution of several attacks in J&K. He was wanted and accused by NIA of attacks on the Indian Army Camp near Baleeni Bridge, Nagrota, Jammu on November 29, 2016. He also raised funding for JeM through contacts in Afghanistan.

After the Pathankot attack, arms & ammunition stores of JeM, earlier stored in Daska Markaz in Sialkot, have been transferred to Markaz Abbas in Kotli, PoJK.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Syedna Bilal Markaz | Muzaffarabad, PoJK

Syedna Bilal Masjid is the main centre of JeM in PoJK, located opposite the Red Fort, Muzaffarabad. The transit camp is located on the first floor, adjacent to the building of Syedna Bilal Masjid. The complex has family quarters, office buildings and an office of the Al-Rehmat Trust, the charity wing of JeM. This facility is used as a transit camp for JeM terrorists before they launch into J&K.

Hizbul Mujahideen

Mehmoona Joya Facility | Head Marala, Sialkot

The complex is located near Kotli Bhutta Govt. Hospital in the Head Marala area of Sialkot District of Punjab, Pakistan. Pakistans ISI have facilitated setting up launch facilities in the region. This facility is used for the infiltration of HM cadres into the Jammu region of J&K. They are also given training for terrorist operations and handling of weapons by the senior commanders at this facility.

The facility consists of a single-story concrete building having three

rooms, one kitchen and one bathroom. Quarters of the nearby hospital in the vicinity of the facility are used to accommodate HM cadres.

The Indian authorities have noted that the organisation carried out a terror attack in India by getting the support of the Pakistani establishment. It is pertinent to note that HM was banned in 2002 by the Indian government under POTA.

Maskar Raheel Shahid | Kotli, PoJK

It is one of the oldest facilities of HM and is accessible only via the Kauchcha track. The camp is located in a hilly area and comprises Barracks. Four of the rooms of the facility are used for keeping arms & ammunition, and others are used for residential purposes by the terrorists. Fresh construction activities have been noticed in this camp with an aim to accommodate more cadres.
Pakistans military said that the Indian attack has resulted in the death of at least 26 civilians read more

A building in Muridke, Pakistan, that was damaged by an Indian missile strike on Wednesday (AP)

Indian armed forces on Wednesday (May 7) launched airstrikes on nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, targeting terrorist infrastructure. This action, codenamed  Operation Sindoor, comes two weeks after the terror attack in Pahalgam that resulted in the deaths of 26 people.

Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution, said a statement from Indias Defence Ministry.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Pakistans military said that the Indian attack has resulted in the death of at least 26 civilians. Meanwhile, UN-designated terrorist Masood Azhar released a statement earlier in the day, saying 10 of his family members were killed in Indian strikes.

Pakistan PM Office has issued a statement, which shows PM Shehbaz Sharif has authorised the Pakistan Army to undertake corresponding actions.

Meanwhile, Nations around the world are reacting to this unfolding military crisis between the two nuclear-armed nations.

US

US President Donald Trump Wednesday said its a shame in response to a question about Indian strikes in Pakistan.

Its a shame. Just heard about it. I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. Theyve been fighting for a long time. Theyve been fighting for many, many decades. I hope it ends very quickly, he said.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has also reacted to the crisis.

I am monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely. I echo President Trumps comments earlier today that this hopefully ends quickly and will continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution, he posted on X.

UK

Prime minister Keir Starmer said the UK was engaging urgently with both countries  encouraging dialogue, de-escalation and the protection of civilians.

China

Chian earlier called for restraint from both sides.

China expresses regret over Indias military actions this morning and is concerned about the current developments. China opposes all forms of terrorism, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson said in a statement. We call on both India and Pakistan to prioritise peace and stability, remain calm and restrained, and avoid taking actions that further complicate the situation.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

France

France said it understands Indias desire to defend itself against terrorism.

We understand Indias desire to protect itself against the scourge of terrorism, but we obviously call on both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint to avoid escalation and, of course, to protect civilians, Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said in an interview.

Israel

Israel has backed Indias right to self-defence.

Israel supports Indias right for self-defence. Terrorists should know theres no place to hide from their heinous crimes against the innocent, said Israels ambassador to India, Reuven Azar.

Japan

Japan has condemned acts of terrorism and has urged both India and Pakistan to show restraint.

For the peace and stability of South Asia, we strongly urge both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and stabilise the situation through dialogue, Chief cabinet secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said. In regard to the terrorist act that occurred in Kashmir on April 22, our country firmly condemns such acts of terrorism, the statement added.

Qatar

Qatar has urged both sides to resolve the issue through diplomatic channels.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes the urgent need to keep communication channels open between India and Pakistan, the statement added.

Russia

Russia said it was deeply concerned about the military escalation between the two nations and urged both sides to show restraint.

It added it had warm ties with both nations and that it condemned terrorism in all forms.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

United Nations

The UN said it was very concerned about Indian military operations across the Line of Control and international border.

The Secretary-General is very concerned about the Indian military operations across the Line of Control and international border. He calls for maximum military restraint from both countries, a spokesperson for Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a statement.
Senior Indian officials have reportedly informed their counterparts in countries including the United States, Russia, United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia about the steps taken by India read more

India has briefed officials from various countries regarding the strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Shutterstock

India reached out to several major countries early Wednesday (May 7), including the US, Russia, the UK, and Saudi Arabia, to brief them about the military strikes it conducted on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, PTI cited sources as saying.

Senior Indian officials have informed their counterparts in numerous countries about the steps taken by India, a source said.

The countries briefed include the US, the UK, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Russia.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The strikes were in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack, which occurred two weeks ago and sparked widespread outrage in India and abroad.

These measures are in response to the barbaric Pahalgam terrorist attack in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were killed, the defence ministry said in a statement.

We are committed to ensuring that those responsible for this attack are held accountable, it said.

With inputs from PTI
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said India had intelligence input that these Pakistan-based terrorists were planning more attacks inside Indian territory read more

India has sent out a strong message to Pakistan after the pre-dawn, cross-border strikes on May 7. (Image: AP)

The Indian government on Wednesday (May 7) said that the cross-border strikes on terror camps inside Pakistan were necessitated after Islamabad took no action against terror infrastructure, even as a fortnight passed following the deadly terrorist attack in Indias Jammu and Kashmir in which 26 people were killed.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri told the media that Indias Operation Sindoor was launched after Pakistan continued to indulge in denials and allegations.

You are all aware of the decisions that were announced on the 23rd of April. However, it was deemed essential that the perpetrators and planners of the 22nd April attack be brought to justice. Despite a fortnight having passed since the attacks, there has been no demonstrable step from Pakistan to take action against the terrorist infrastructure on its territory or on territory under its control, Misri said.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Misri added New Delhi had intelligence input that these Pakistan-based terrorists were planning more attacks inside Indian territory, and thus the May 7 strikes were a part of a preemptive action.

Instead, all it has indulged in are denials and allegations. Our intelligence monitoring of Pakistan-based terrorist modules indicated that further attacks against India were impending. There was thus a compulsion both to deter and to pre-empt, the diplomat added.

Earlier this morning as you would be aware India exercised its right to respond and pre-empt as well as deter more such cross-border attacks. These actions were measured, non-escalatory, proportionate, and responsible. They focused on dismantling the terrorist infrastructure and disabling terrorists likely to be sent across to India, said Misri.

India had announced a slew of punitive measures against Pakistan a day after the April 22 deadly attack in Pahalgam. These measures included holding the Indus Water Treaty in abeyance and revoking visas issued to Pakistani nationals among others. However, India had so far refrained from taking any military action against Pakistan. The Indian government now says it had given the Pakistani government enough time to act against the terror camps operating on the territory controlled by it.

On Wednesday, the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor, a swift and targeted military action.

In an official statement, the Ministry of Defence confirmed that nine terror-linked sites were hit with precision. Importantly, the strikes did not target any Pakistani military facilities, highlighting that the operation was aimed strictly at eliminating terror bases and avoiding direct military escalation.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Among those killed are Masood Azhars sister and brother-in-law. The ten people were taken out in Indian strikes targeting Bahawalpur read more

Local residents stand outside a mosque of an Islamic seminary partially damaged by a suspected Indian missile attack, outskirts of Bahawalpur, Pakistan (AP)

Ten family members of Jaish Terrorist Masood Azhar have been killed in Indias strikes on Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on Wednesday (May 7), according to sources.

Among those killed are Masood Azhars sister and brother-in-law. The ten people were taken out in Indian strikes targeting Bahawalpur.

Posts circulating on social media show a statement released by the UN-designated terrorist, confirming that 10 of his family members were killed in the strikes. Firstpost is not able to verify the authenticity of this statement independently.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

On Wednesday, the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. The operation focused on striking terrorist infrastructure both in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

In an official statement, the Ministry of Defence confirmed that nine terror-linked sites were hit with precision. Importantly, the strikes did not target any Pakistani military facilities, highlighting that the operation was aimed strictly at eliminating terror bases and avoiding direct military escalation.

At a press conference, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Col. Sofia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh briefed the media about details of the operation that lasted for 25 minutes. Misri said the actions were measured, non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible.

Despite a fortnight having passed since the attack, there has been no demonstrable step from Pakistan to take action against the terrorist infrastructure on its territory or territory under its control. Instead all it has indulged in is denial and allegations, he said.

Our intelligence monitoring of Pakistan-based terror modules indicated that further attacks against India were impending. There was thus a compulsion both to deter and to preempt, Misri added.

(More to follow)
Earlier, PM Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had skipped attending the Victory Day Parade in Moscow amidst tensions along the Line of Control read more

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chairs meeting of Cabinet Committee on Security, in New Delhi, on April 23, 2025. Image: PIB

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has deferred his upcoming visits to Croatia, the Netherlands and Norway in the wake of increased military tensions between India and Pakistan.

PM Modis trip to Norway, Croatia, and the Netherlands was planned for May 13-17, though none of the countries had officially announced it. The main event of the trip was supposed to be the third India-Nordic Summit in Norway, where the Indian PM would have been a co-chair.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The India-Nordic Summit involves the leaders of India, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Finland. It previously took place in Sweden in 2018 and in Denmark in 2022.

The intended visits to Croatia and the Netherlands were focused on strengthening partnerships in areas like trade and environmentally friendly economies.

The Indian forces on Wednesday (May 7) launched  Operation Sindoor, a swift and targeted military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. The operation focused on striking terrorist infrastructure both in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). According to a press briefing issued by the government, a total of nine terrorist sites were hit.

Earlier, PM Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had skipped attending the Victory Day Parade in Moscow amidst tensions along the Line of Control (Loc), the de-facto border between India and Pakistan.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that India will be represented at a different level. The annual parade- held in Moscows Red Square- commemorates the Soviet Unions victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.
Airports were shut and flight operations across several airports in northern and north-western India have been disrupted after India carried out military strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and PoK under Operation Sindoor. read more

Several airports in the north and north-western parts of the country, particularly near the border areas with Pakistan, have been closed until further notice after India launched military strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under

The strikes were carried out in response to last months terror attack in Pahalgam, in which Pakistan-based terrorists killed 26 civilians, most of them tourists.

Flight services have been suspended at major airports including Dharamshala, Leh, Jammu, Srinagar, and Amritsar. Authorities have said that all incoming, outgoing, and connecting flights will be affected.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Air India announced that, in view of the prevailing situation, it has cancelled all flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot until noon today.

Two international flights en route to Amritsar are being diverted to Delhi. We regret the inconvenience caused due to this unforeseen disruption, the airline said in a post on X.

According to SpiceJet, due to the ongoing situation, airports in parts of northern India, including Dharamshala (DHM), Leh (IXL), Jammu (IXJ), Srinagar (SXR), and Amritsar (ATQ), are closed until further notice.

Departures, arrivals, and consequential flights may be impacted, the airline said in a post on X.

IndiGo stated that due to changing airspace conditions in the region, flights to and from Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, and Dharamshala are affected.

Passengers have been advised to check with airlines for flight updates and plan their travel accordingly. Further information will be provided as the security situation evolves.

Air India has cancelled all flights to and from nine cities  Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot  until 12 noon today. The airline is awaiting further instructions from the authorities.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Two international flights headed to Amritsar have been diverted to Delhi.

In response to the deadly Pahalgam attack that killed 26 people, the Indian armed forces launched missile strikes early Wednesday on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including Bahawalpur, a known base of the Jaish-e-Mohammad group.

The strikes were part of  , the Defence Ministry said in a statement issued at 1:44 am, adding that the action was focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature.
Even as Pakistan claimed to have mounted a counter-offensive to Operation Sindoor, it claimed that no Indian aircraft entered its airspace and no Pakistani aircraft crossed into Indian airspace read more

Pakistan Air Force (PAF) fighter jet F-16 performs to commemorate Pakistan Air Force's 'Operation Swift Retort', following the shot down of Indian military aircrafts on February 27, 2019 in Kashmir, during an air show in Karachi, Pakistan February 27, 2020. (Photo: Reuters)

Pakistan has said that neither any Indian aircraft entered its airspace nor any Pakistani aircraft crossed into Indian airspace in last nights military action.

India said it struck nine terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK) in the early hours of Wednesday in response to the Pahalgam attack. The military action was codenamed Operation Sindoor. India blamed Pakistan for the attack in which Pakistan-sponsored terrorists killed 26 people.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Pakistan has said that the countrys air and ground forces were pressed into action to conduct retaliatory strikes against India. However, even as Pakistan acknowledged Indian strikes and claimed to have responded to India, it said that no planes crossed borders.

At no time, any of their aircraft were allowed to enter into Pakistans airspace and also at no time, none of Pakistans aircraft went into Indian airspace, said Lieutenant General Ahmed Chaudhry, the principal spokesperson of the Pakistani military.

Chaudhry further told the media that Pakistan responded fully to the Indian operation and destroyed several Indian checkposts and struck a brigade headquarters inside India.

India said in an initial that it struck only terrorist sites and not any military installation. Later at a press conference, an Indian official said that targets struck were engaged in terrorist activities against India.

Operation Sindoor was launched to give justice to victims of heinous Pahalgam terrorist attack on April 22. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and completely destroyed. For three decades, terror infrastructure has prospered in Pakistan that includes recruitment and indoctrination centres, training areas, and launchpads. These centres are spread over both Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK), said Colonel Sofiya Qureshi at the briefing.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Kinshasa, DRC (PANA) - A UN food convoy has successfully delivered vital supplies to support tens of thousands of displaced people affected by escalating violence in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), according to humanitarian teams on the ground
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday vowed to strike back after Indias attack on nine terror hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, declaring that New Delhi would pay for its actions read more

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday vowed to strike back after Indias attack on nine terror hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, declaring that New Delhi would pay for its actions.

In address to the nation, Sharif claimed to have shot down 5 fighter jets, which, he said, are now ash.

We resolve that we will avenge the blood of our innocent martyrs, Aljazeera quoed Sharif as saying.

Last night, we showed that Pakistan can deliver a jaw-breaking response for its defence. At the Line of Control, the dogfight raged for about an hour. Pakistani pilots remained in their airspace, the enemys planes were shattered to pieces, he claimed, adding, In conventional warfare last night, we proved that Pakistan prevailed.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Sharif also emphasised Pakistans position on Kashmir.

As per international law, Jammu and Kashmir is a disputed territory and will remain until a plebiscite is done, Sharif was quoted as saying.

Regardless of how many unilateral decisions India takes, it cannot change the reality, he added.

Earlier, talking to CNN, Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif called the Indian assault an invitation to expand the conflict

Asif said his country is trying to avoid an all-out war with India but must be prepared for one.

We cannot be caught with our guards down, CNN quoted him as saying.

Meanwhile, Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, the spokesperson for Pakistans armed forces, said the Indian assault has killed 31 civilians and injured dozens others.

Any condemnation of Indias strikes is not enough, Chaudhry was quoted as saying by the newspaper Dawn.

According to a CNN report, earlier while addressing the Parliament, Sharif lauded his countrys air force following a claim by military sources that it shot down five Indian fighter jets.

Sharif praised the Pakistani militarys readiness to deal with the enemys planes.

Sharif also informed lawmakers that India deployed dozens of warplanes in its attack, which resulted in at least 26 deaths, including that of a 3-year-old girl, and left at least 46 others wounded, reported CNN, citing a Pakistani military official.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Sharif did not specify how Pakistan would respond to Indias assault, which he had earlier labeled an act of war. His office, however, said that Pakistans military had been authorised to undertake corresponding actions in this regard.

A few days ago, India was proudly showing off its purchase of Rafale jets. But one shouldnt be too proud, Sharif told lawmakers.

These jets flew from there in combat form, but our air force was also prepared, he added.

Early on Wednesday, Indian armed forces destroyed nine terrorist hideouts including that of Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in a 25-minute-long measured and non-escalatory missile and drone strike to avenge dastardly terror attack in Pahalgam.

Under Operation Sindoor, the Indian military targeted Markaz Taiba of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in Muridke, Markaz Subhan Allah of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in Bahawalpur and Hizbul Mujahideens Mehmoona Joya Facility in Sialkot and LeTs base in Markaz Ahle Hadith in Barnala and its camp in Muzaffarabads Shawai Nalla.

With inputs from agencies
In his statement, Shehbaz Sharif made several contradictory claims, reflecting how the Pakistani establishment is attempting to maintain a bold front through disinformation and propaganda tactics read more

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday (May 7) addressed the countrys parliament to brief lawmakers about Indias Operation Sindoor in which Indian forces launched strikes on terror camps inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

In his statement, Sharif made several contradictory claims, reflecting how the Pakistani establishment is attempting to maintain a bold front through disinformation and propaganda tactics.

Firstly, the Pakistan PM praised army generals for restoring the countrys respect. The Pakistan army has been making unsubstantiated claims regarding counter-action in response to Indian strikes, with Pakistani media amplifying misinformation using old videos and photos.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Its ironic that while the Pakistan PM showers praises on its army, its only the generals and their policies that have created this crisis in the first place. Pakistan Armys covert support to anti-India militants and terrorists operating from the territory under their control speaks volumes about the fact that the Pakistani generals are responsible for terror attacks in India and the ensuing Indian armed forces response.

Secondly, Sharif appeared to be confused about whether Indian jets crossed the border or not. While Pakistani army has maintained that Indian jets fired missiles at targets in Pakistan from within their own airspace, PM Sharif claimed Pakistan army jammed the communication system of Indian jets and forced them to withdraw.

If Indian jets never entered Pakistani airspace, where were they forced to withdraw from?

Thirdly, Sharif lauded Pakistan Army saying they were completely prepared, yet India managed to successfully target nine terror sites right under their nose. During a meeting with his cabinet colleagues, Indian PM Narendra Modi informed that the Indian Army had carried out the operation as per the preparations and without any mistake. This shows the Pakistan Army was not just ill-prepared but was also caught off guard by Indias precision strikes.

This mixed messaging points to internal confusion and an effort to control the narrative.

Throughout the day, Pakistani media, social media handles and journalists have been disseminating misinformation at the behest of Pakistan Army for the consumption of local audiences. Its likely that Sharifs speech, full of contradictions, is also solely focused on earning brownie points back home using unsubstantiated claims.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Here are the nine terrorist sites belonging to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), and Hizbul Mujahideen that India struck in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK). read more

The rubble of a building damaged by Indian missile attack, is seen in Muridke, a town in Pakistan's Punjab province, on Wednesday. AP

Among the nine terrorist sites that India struck in the early hours of Wednesday were the headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

The two terrorist organisations, along with others like Hizbul Mujahideen, have not just bled Kashmir for decades, but have carried out some of the worst acts of terror in India. The LeT carried out the Mumbai attacks of 2008 and JeM carried out the Pulwama attack of 2019.

In the early hours of Wednesday, however, India struck some of the sanctum sanctorum of terror as India bombed five sites in Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK) and four sites in Pakistan-proper, including in the Punjab province  the beating heart of Pakistan.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

India in an early statement said that those sites were attacked from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. At a media briefing later, an official said that facilities were struck after assessing decades worth of information.

The selection of locations was based on credible intelligence inputs and the role of these facilities in perpetrating terror activity. The locations were so selected to avoid the damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives, said Wing Commander Vyomika Singh at a briefing led by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.

ALSO READ: Operation Sindoor: As jihad drives Pakistan, India can only impose costs  deterrence is impossible

In the briefing, officials detailed the nine sites that India struck. They further shared the list of 12 other active terrorist sites that were not struck  an apparent message that India has ready options for the next round if Pakistan would chose to escalate the situation.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

1. Sawai Nala, Muzaffarabad

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who led the briefing on the operational aspects of Operation Sindoor, said that the Sawai Nala camp at Muzaffarabad in POJK was located around 30 kilometres from the Line of Control (LoC). She said it was a training centre.

Terrorists trained at the camp were involved in attacks in J&Ks Sonmarg and Gulmarg in October 2024 and last months Pahalgam attack, said Qureshi.

The graphic shows five terrorist sites struck by India in Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK) under Operation Sindoor. (Photo: Press Information Bureau)

2. Syedna Bilal Camp

The Syedna Bilal Camp in POJK was a staging area of LeT, according to Qureshi.

Terrorists received training in jungle survival, explosives, and weapons handling at the site, said Qureshi.

Photo: Press Information Bureau

3. Gulpur Camp, Kotli

The LeT camp was located 30 kms from LoC and its terrorists were active in Rajouri and Poonch areas of J&K, according to Qureshi.

They were involved in attack on Rajouri on April 20, 2023, and on pilgrims on June 9, 2024, said Qureshi.

Photo: Press Information Bureau

4. Bhimber, POJK

The camp was 9 km from the LoC, according to Qureshi.

Terrorists received training in handling weapons, improvised explosive devices, and jungle survival at the camp, said Qureshi.

Photo: Press Information Bureau

5. Abbas Camp, Kotli

Qureshi said that the camp was located 13 km from the LoC and trained LeT terrorists.

Photo: Press Information Bureau

6. Sarjal Camp, Sialkot

Qureshi said that the camp was located around 6 km from the International Border.

Terrorists who killed four policemen in March were from this camp, according to Qureshi.

Photo: Press Information Bureau

7. Mehmoona Joya, Sialkot

Qureshi said that the camp was located 12-18 km from the International Border. She said it belonged to Hizbul Mujahideen.

Qureshi said that the Pathankot attack was planned and directed by leaders at the base.

Terrorists active in J&Ks Kathua are primarily from this base, according to Qureshi.

Photo: Press Information Bureau

8. Markaz Taiba, Muridke

The LeT facility is where the plot for the 26/11 Mumbai attacks of 2008 was hatched, according to Qureshi.

Terrorists involved in the 26/11 attacks, including Ajmal Kasab and David Headley, were trained at the camp, said Qureshi.

The Markaz Taiba was the headquarters of LeT.

Photo: Press Information Bureau

9. Markaz Subhanallah, Bahawalpur

Markaz Subhanallah at Pakistans Punjabs Bahawalpur was the headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Qureshi said the site was used by JeM for training and indoctrination purposes as well.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The terrorist camp Markaz Subhanallah in Bahawalpur, Pakistan the headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed, located about 100 km from the International Border, was also targeted by the Indian Armed Forces. The camp was used for the recruitment, training, and indoctrination of terrorists: pic.twitter.com/VWHUjciEXX  DD News (@DDNewslive) May 7, 2025
Videos of Indias missile strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir surfaced on social media early Wednesday, hours after the launch of Operation Sindoor. However, Firstpost has not independently verified the footage. read more

Videos showing India targeting terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir were shared on social media early Wednesday. As part of Operation Sindoor, India struck nine terror locations across Pakistan and PoJK, the Press Information Bureau said in a statement.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Videos of the strikes on terror outfits and their hideouts surfaced on social media. However, Firstpost cannot verify them at this time.

In response to the deadly Pahalgam massacre that killed 26 people, the Indian armed forces launched missile strikes early Wednesday on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including Bahawalpur, a known base of the Jaish-e-Mohammad group.

The strikes were part of Operation Sindoor, the Defence Ministry said in a statement issued at 1:44 am, adding that the action was focused, measured, and non-escalatory.

The Indian statement said: A little while ago, the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed.

#WATCH | Pinpoint precision targeting by Indian armed forces on Pakistani positions near LoC (exact location not being disclosed)#OperationSindoor pic.twitter.com/eLWGnSluEY  ANI (@ANI) May 6, 2025

No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and the method of execution, the Defence Ministry said.

In a post on X in Hindi shortly after the strikes, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said: Long live Mother India! (Bharat Mata Ki Jai).

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

These steps come in the wake of the barbaric Pahalgam terrorist attack, in which 25 Indian citizens and one Nepali citizen were murdered, the Defence Ministry statement added.

We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable, it said.
In an insightful conversation with Firstpost, German Ambassador to India, Dr Philipp Ackermann, said that Berlin is looking for more professionals to come from India and raised concerns about the challenges that come with it read more

Lauding the India-Germany ties, German Ambassador to India, Dr Philipp Ackermann, said that Berlin is looking for more professionals to come from India. In a brief conversation with Firstpost, the German envoy also elucidated the challenges both countries face in ensuring smooth workers mobility.

The conversation took place on the sidelines of the launch of the Global Access to Talent from India (GATI) Foundation in New Delhi. It is a non-profit Foundation dedicated to building structured, ethical, and circular pathways for global talent mobility.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar was the chief guest at the GATI Foundations launch event. The event was also attended by Shri. Jayant Chaudhary, Honble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education, attended as the Guest of Honour. The foundation is incubated by the Convergence Foundation, Manish Sabharwal, and the Godrej Foundation.

Heres what the German Ambassador has to say about the Indian talent and how it can felicitate the global markets.

Edited excerpts:

Q1. What are your takeaways from todays event, and what are your hopes for the GATI Foundation?

Amb Ackermann: I think this Gati Foundation is a very interesting move. I think its extremely timely, and I think we will work together with Gati in the months and years to come because once it is in full swing, it might be a very important institution that can deliver on mainstreaming migration from India to Europe and Germany in particular.

There will be more Indians coming to Germany because Germany wants more Indians to come. Germany has turned out to be an interesting destination for many Indians and we have to see to it that the right people come, the ones who are prepared for work in Germany, the ones who learn the language, the oEdited excerpts:nes who are ready to live in difficult circumstances and I think every institution that deals with this difficult matter is welcome. So I am very much looking forward. I am very confident that this foundation will contribute a bit.

Q2 We did a reportage on the challenges Indian students and professionals are facing in France. They expressed issues like a language barrier, problems with the employment contracts they were getting and how some companies are hesitant in sponsoring their visas. So what makes Germany different in that regard?

Amb Ackermann: I am not aware of the French situation, but it is clear that migration always comes with problems. There are a lot of opportunities, but it also comes with problems. Language barrier is one of the problems.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

German is not so far from English, but it is a difficult language to learn. And when you are in certain professions, not in all, IT engineers dont need German, but caregivers, nurses, apprentices, and bus drivers need to have some basic knowledge of German, and that has to be acquired, these language skills, before people go. Or at least it has to be perfect during their stay in Germany.

That is a big challenge, and we need to cope with this challenge. So we have to increase the number of German teachers in India. We have to increase the number of German exams in India. Sponsoring visas with Germany is not such a problem. We have a very liberal visa policy.

But of course, you have to qualify for this visa, and these qualifications will be checked. So I think that you should not underestimate the challenges migration is delivering. But at the same time, I think the experience we have with the overwhelming majority of the Indian diaspora in Germany is that you can cope with these challenges; it is doable. And if you are prepared, the better you are prepared, the better it is for your future.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Q3. What is the German government doing in collaboration with the Indian government in this regard to ensure the mobility of workers?

Amb Ackermann: So we have programmes here, programmes setting up for certain professions like nurses, caregivers. We have agencies with whom we work on apprenticeships. And this is a bit surveyed from us, but also from the Indian government, so that we see that these people who come to Germany are well prepared.

And how do we get to a level where we have more people but with the same qualification and the same degree of preparation of the community? Thats our big challenge
China urged India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and put peace and stability first, in its first reaction to Operation Sindoor read more

China has urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint as it reacts to New Delhis against terror camps in Pakistan. In the early hours of Wednesday, the Indian military conducted a tri-service operation, targeting nine terror targets in Pakistan. The attack was seen as a response to the devastating Pahalgam terror attack, which saw the death of 26 tourists at the hands of terrorists from Pakistan.

China has been a long-standing ally of Islamabad and has remained hesitant in taking a clear stance on the matter. On Wednesday, the countrys foreign ministry called on both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and put peace and stability first." The response came when the Chinese foreign ministry was asked about comments on the recent military escalation. For hours, Beijing was silent on the events that unfolded in the neighbouring nations. The brief silence garnered the attention of many.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The Chinese ministry said in a statement that it regrets Indias military action and is concerned about the current situation. China finds Indias military operation early this morning regrettable. We are concerned about the ongoing situation. India and Pakistan are and will always be each others neighbours. Theyre both Chinas neighbours as well, the foreign ministry said.

However, Beijing made it clear that it rejects all forms of terrorism. China opposes all forms of terrorism. We urge both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, remain calm, exercise restraint and refrain from taking actions that may further complicate the situation, the Chinese spokesperson added.

Chinas bias for Pakistan

China has been a long-time ally of Pakistan, which emerges as a reason for this bias. After India took security measures following the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar called Chinas top diplomat Wang Yi over the phone and urged Beijing to support its call for an independent probe.

Meanwhile, Chinese representatives were also briefed by India after the attack. During the Uri attack, the same privilege was not given to the Chinese envoy. In his talks with Dar, Wang while stating that China is closely following the developments stressing that combating terrorism is a shared responsibility of the whole world, noted that China supports an impartial investigation as soon as possible, as the conflict does not serve the fundamental interests of either India or Pakistan, nor does it contribute to regional peace and stability.

As an ironclad friend and an all-weather strategic cooperative partner, China fully understands Pakistans legitimate security concerns and supports Pakistan in safeguarding its sovereignty and security interests", Wang said at that time.
In a one-line tweet, External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar urged the world to show no tolerance for terrorism after India conducted precision strikes on terror camps in Pakistan under Operation Sindoor read more

In a one-line tweet, External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar urged the world to show zero tolerance for terrorism as India launched , striking 9 terror sites in Pakistan. On Monday morning, the EAM took to X, formerly known as Twitter, sharing his message to the world while India was fighting against terrorism.

The world must show zero tolerance for terrorism, Jaishankar wrote in the post, sharing the #OperationSindoor. In the early hours of Wednesday, the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force launched a joint mission called Operation Sindoor, hitting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The world must show zero tolerance for terrorism. #OperationSindoor pic.twitter.com/dmcCLfbMjN  Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 7, 2025

The mission was conducted in response to the devastating Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists on April 22. In the statement following what it called the precision strike, the Ministry of Defence said that as many as 9 sites were attacked by India and no Pakistani military facilities were targeted.

Partners not preachers: How Indian foreign policy might look

On Sunday, days before India conducted a precision strike, Jaishankar called out Europe and other nations for struggling to adapt to the evolving multipolar world order.

When we look at the world, we look for partners, we dont look for preachers. Particularly, preachers who dont practice at home what they preach abroad. Some of Europe is still struggling with that problem. Europe has entered a certain zone of reality check. Whether they can step up or not is something we will have to see. If we have to develop a partnership, there has to be some understanding, sensitivity, mutuality of interest and a realisation of how the world works, Jaishankar said at the Arctic Circle India Forum 2025 in New Delhi.

The EAM noted that the European nations are having a difficult time adjusting to shifting global realities. While India has been hopeful of the support of global actors. It might seek partners and not preachers.

Meanwhile, Operation Sindoor has caught Pakistan off guard, with the countrys Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif calling it an act of war. The Indian military is expected to hold a press conference to give more insights into the operation at around 10 am.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Juba, South Sudan (PANA) - Aid teams in South Sudan warned on Tuesday that repeated attacks on healthcare including the bombing of a hospital in eastern Jonglei state at the weekend are just the latest of the multiple vulnerabilities the countrys people face
Port Sudan, Sudan (PANA) - The Bureau of African Affairs at US State Department has condemned the recent drone attacks against civilian infrastructure in Sudan
Oklahoma Superintendent of Public Schools Ryan Walters, a vocal Trump supporter, has mandated that all the state's high schools teach about alleged "discrepancies" in the 2020 election, saying he wants to prevent students from being "spoon-fed left-wing propaganda."

In a draft of the new curriculum, Walters asked that students analyze contemporary turning points of 21st century American society during the Bush, Obama, Trump, and Biden administrations.

"Identify discrepancies in 2020 elections results by looking at graphs and other information, including the sudden halting of ballot-counting in select cities in key battleground states, the security risks of mail-in balloting, sudden batch dumps, an unforeseen record number of voters, and the unprecedented contradiction of 'bellwether county' trends," Walters wrote.

Walters is one of the many MAGA supporters still promoting President Donald Trump's fabricated claim that the 2020 election was stolen, even though he himself admitted in a September 2024 interview that he lost to Joe Biden "by a whisker."

The Oklahoma superintendent's tenure, which began when was voted into his role in November 2022 and will end in January 2027, has been mired in controversy. In addition to ignoring a series of school bomb threats.

Last June, Walters revealed he lost millions in school funding because he had been locked out of his Department of Education website for two years, drawing bipartisan condemnation, Heartland Signal reported.

OK state legislators torch State Superintendent Ryan Walters (R) for losing federal funding for schools and being locked out of his own Department of Education website for years:



"So just for clarity, you do not have access to your website, to update your website?"



"Correct." pic.twitter.com/tVAfes9iSx  Heartland Signal (@HeartlandSignal) June 21, 2024

Two days later, Trump doubled down on his support for the humiliated educator, writing in an X post, "Great job by Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters on FoxNews last night. Strong, decisive, and knows his 'stuff.' I LOVE OKLAHOMA!"

Originally published on Latin Times
Where to see whales in Victoria

The best places to see whales in Victoria include Logan's Beach in Warrnambool, Phillip Island, Wilsons Promontory, Cape Otway Lightstation, Queenscliff Harbour and Ninety Mile Beach.

Portland

Whether you're extending your trip on the Great Ocean Road or tackling a road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide, one stop you can't miss for whale watching is Portland. This coastal town is sometimes called Australia's whale capital, and for good reason: southern right whales, humpback whales and even orcas often visit Portland and Bridgewater Bay in winter.

Look for the whale flag outside the Portland Visitor Information Centre. If it's flying, there's a great chance of whale spotting that day. You can also check the Facebook page Whalemail for the latest whale sightings in the area.

While in Portland, make sure to visit the Portland Maritime Discovery Centre to see a 14-metre long sperm whale skeleton and marvel at the size of these gentle giants.

Phillip Island

Just 140km south of Melbourne, Phillip Island is a popular spot for observing humpback whales during their migration. The island's clear winter skies and calm seas enhance the whale watching experience. Cape Woolamai, Surf Beach, Pyramid Rock, and the Nobbies are all great areas to spot whales from land on Phillip Island.

Regular whale watching tours are available from Phillip Island between June and early August, departing from San Remo and Rhyll. These tours explore the waters around Phillip Island for humpback whales, southern right whales, dolphins, fur seals, albatross, gannets and more.

While you're on Phillip Island, why not pair your whale watching with the Penguin Parade? This experience gets you up close to a little penguin colony that swims in from the ocean each sunset to return to their burrows.

Wilsons Promontory

Wilsons Promontory National Park in Gippsland offers a picturesque backdrop for whale watching. Visitors can enjoy views of humpback whales and occasionally southern right whales as they migrate along the coast. Land-based sightings are possible from elevated coastal trails and lookouts, such as those near the Wilsons Promontory Lightstation. Hikers have reported observing whales breaching and spouting from these vantage points during the migration period.

Whale watching tours are available off Wilsons Promontory, departing from Port Welshpool from late August to early November. Passengers have a high chance of spotting migrating humpback and southern right whales, dolphins, fur seals, sea eagles and more.

If you're exploring Gippsland, Inverloch is a great pit stop between Phillip Island and Wilsons Promontory, with accommodation ranging from luxurious rooms to a caravan park.

Warrnambool

The coastal town of Warrnambool, situated along the Great Ocean Road, offers a unique opportunity to witness southern right whales from land-based viewing platforms. Each year, from late May to August, adult female southern right whales arrive at Logan's Beach to give birth and nurture their calves, often staying until mid to late September.

The dedicated viewing platforms at Logan's Beach provide an excellent vantage point to observe these majestic creatures as they frolic just meters from the shore.

Cape Otway

Visit Cape Otway between May and October for the chance to see numerous whale species passing close to the shoreline on their annual migration: humpback whales, southern right whales, blue whales and even occasionally orcas.

Head to the Cape Otway Lightstation for your best chance at whale watching. The elevated position of the lighthouse and nearby viewing platforms provides excellent opportunities to observe these majestic creatures as they breach, spout or tail-slap near the shore. The area also features a Whale Interpretive Area, offering educational displays to help visitors identify different whale species and understand their behaviors.

Queenscliff Harbour

You can potentially see whales from Queenscliff Harbour from June to October. The harbour's location at the entrance of Port Phillip Bay, surrounded by water on three sides, provides a strategic vantage point for spotting marine life like humpback whales and southern right whales.

For land-based viewing, the 42m observation tower at Queenscliff Harbour offers panoramic views of the bay, increasing your chances of spotting whales and other marine animals. There are also piers and vantage points for additional land-based whale spotting.

If you're interested in a closer encounter, consider joining a local wildlife sightseeing tour departing from Queenscliff Harbour. Marine life you're likely to encounter includes fur seals, Burrunan dolphins, and, of course, whales.

Ninety Mile Beach

You can see whales from Ninety Mile Beach in Gippsland during the annual migration season. This expansive stretch of coastline, running from Port Albert to Lakes Entrance, offers several vantage points for land-based whale watching.

From June to July whales migrate northward, and from September to November they return southward, often accompanied by their calves. During these periods, whales can often be seen close to the shoreline. Golden Beach, in particular, is noted as one of the best on-land vantage points for whale watching.

Start your adventure at Inverloch, then follow the coastline to Ninety Mile Beach.
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.
Blog Archive: Jul 2025 (25) Jun 2025 (150) May 2025 (155) Apr 2025 (9) Mar 2025 (149) Feb 2025 (139) Jan 2025 (155) Dec 2024 (144) Nov 2024 (143) Oct 2024 (155) Sep 2024 (149) Aug 2024 (155) Jul 2024 (155) Jun 2024 (150) May 2024 (153) Apr 2024 (149) Mar 2024 (155) Feb 2024 (145) Jan 2024 (155) Dec 2023 (155) Nov 2023 (150) Oct 2023 (155) Sep 2023 (150) Aug 2023 (155) Jul 2023 (155) Jun 2023 (150) May 2023 (155) Apr 2023 (150) Mar 2023 (155) Feb 2023 (140) Jan 2023 (155) Dec 2022 (156) Nov 2022 (150) Oct 2022 (155) Sep 2022 (150) Aug 2022 (155) Jul 2022 (154) Jun 2022 (150) May 2022 (155) Apr 2022 (150) Mar 2022 (155) Feb 2022 (140) Jan 2022 (156) Dec 2021 (156) Nov 2021 (150) Oct 2021 (155) Sep 2021 (150) Aug 2021 (155) Jul 2021 (155) Jun 2021 (150) May 2021 (155) Apr 2021 (150) Mar 2021 (155) Feb 2021 (140) Jan 2021 (155) Dec 2020 (155) Nov 2020 (150) Oct 2020 (158) Sep 2020 (150) Aug 2020 (130) Jul 2020 (124) Jun 2020 (120) May 2020 (124) Apr 2020 (120) Mar 2020 (124) Feb 2020 (116) Jan 2020 (125) Dec 2019 (126) Nov 2019 (120) Oct 2019 (124) Sep 2019 (120) Aug 2019 (125) Jul 2019 (124) Jun 2019 (120) May 2019 (123) Apr 2019 (121) Mar 2019 (124) Feb 2019 (112) Jan 2019 (125) Dec 2018 (126) Nov 2018 (120) Oct 2018 (124) Sep 2018 (121) Aug 2018 (124) Jul 2018 (125) Jun 2018 (120) May 2018 (124) Apr 2018 (121) Mar 2018 (124) Feb 2018 (112) Jan 2018 (123) Dec 2017 (124) Nov 2017 (124) Oct 2017 (141) Sep 2017 (135) Aug 2017 (138) Jul 2017 (137) Jun 2017 (134) May 2017 (138) Apr 2017 (135) Mar 2017 (139) Feb 2017 (129) Jan 2017 (143) Dec 2016 (135) Nov 2016 (138) Oct 2016 (142) Sep 2016 (128) Aug 2016 (133) Jul 2016 (136) Jun 2016 (138) May 2016 (164) Apr 2016 (311) Mar 2016 (348) Feb 2016 (320) Jan 2016 (348) Dec 2015 (314) Nov 2015 (338) Oct 2015 (363) Sep 2015 (358) Aug 2015 (399) Jul 2015 (374) Jun 2015 (331) May 2015 (337) Apr 2015 (319) Mar 2015 (320) Feb 2015 (271) Jan 2015 (286) Dec 2014 (254) Nov 2014 (238) Oct 2014 (287) Sep 2014 (267) Aug 2014 (259) Jul 2014 (260) Jun 2014 (238) May 2014 (241) Apr 2014 (228) Mar 2014 (240) Feb 2014 (217) Jan 2014 (263) Dec 2013 (226) Nov 2013 (254) Oct 2013 (256) Sep 2013 (252) Aug 2013 (263) Jul 2013 (261) Jun 2013 (251) May 2013 (250) Apr 2013 (221) Mar 2013 (193) Feb 2013 (164) Jan 2013 (157) Dec 2012 (155) Nov 2012 (240) Oct 2012 (526) Sep 2012 (411) Aug 2012 (394) Jul 2012 (284) Jun 2012 (229) May 2012 (213) Apr 2012 (213) Mar 2012 (253) Feb 2012 (269) Jan 2012 (298) Dec 2011 (273) Nov 2011 (219) Oct 2011 (204) Sep 2011 (201) Aug 2011 (236) Jul 2011 (217) Jun 2011 (211) May 2011 (206) Apr 2011 (215) Mar 2011 (215) Feb 2011 (186) Jan 2011 (215) Dec 2010 (107) Nov 2010 (98) Oct 2010 (55)
Saturday Night

Mainly clear. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 64F. NNW winds shifting to E at 10 to 15 mph.
A federal judge has cast doubts on the habeas corpus request brought by former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters, giving Peters 30 days to show why the request shouldnt be denied in a ruling Monday.

The ruling stated Peters request to a federal court for release pending her appeal process may be illegitimate because she has not exhausted all of her options at the state level.

Peters was convicted of three counts of attempting to influence a public servant, one count of conspiracy to commit criminal impersonation, one count of official misconduct and one count of failure to comply with the secretary of state, and sentenced to nine years of incarceration in October 2024. She is currently being held at the La Vista Correctional Facility in Pueblo.

Peters was accused of allowing an unauthorized person to enter a secure area of the Mesa County Elections Division in May 2021 to make copies of computer hard drives in search of election fraud, and misleading officials in the process.

An investigation was opened into Peters in August, 2021 by the Colorado Secretary of States Office. Secretary of State Jena Griswold decertified Mesa Countys election equipment after Peters couldnt show they were not compromised, and Peters was later barred from conducting Mesa Countys fall 2021 election.

On Monday, Magistrate Judge Scott T. Varholak filed an order to show cause in Peterss habeas corpus case giving Peters 30 days to show she has exhausted all of her options at the state level, and showing why her request should not be denied.

A state prisoner bringing a federal habeas corpus action bears the burden of showing exhaustion of all available state remedies for each particular claim, the order stated.

According to court documents, in Peters request she does not challenge the validity of her convictions, but does challenge the Colorado Court of Appeals decision not to allow her to bond out of prison during her appeal process.

Peters request cites a violation of her first amendment rights, a violation of her due process rights, and a denial of her right to immunity from prosecution based on the supremacy clause of the U.S. Constitution.

Varholak stated in his order that Peters does not appear to have exhausted all of her state options for each of her claims during her request for bail pending appeal in state court.

Even if state remedies have been properly exhausted as to one or more of the claims presented, a federal habeas corpus application is subject to dismissal as a mixed petition unless state-court remedies have been exhausted for all of the claims raised, the order stated.

Varholak found that the second and third claims made by Peters have not been fairly presented in state court.

A review of the state court records attached to the Application indicate that these claims were not fairly presented in Ms. Peters Motion for Bond Pending Appeal filed in the CCA. Rather, Ms. Peters stated that she will raise these matters on the merits as part of her direct appeal of her convictions (which is pending in the CCA), but will just preview them in her motion for bond, the order stated.

The first claim, however, was fairly presented before the state court, according to Varholaks order.

The court may not adjudicate an application with both exhausted and un-exhausted claims, according to the order, and so Peters cause could be dismissed as a mixed petition.

The order noted Peters could remove the request for the second and third claims and proceed with just the first claim.

Varholaks order also denied a motion requesting the denial of a statement of interest the Justice Department filed in relation to the case, which suggested Peters prosecution may have been politically motivated and her constitutional rights violated.

Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser said in a court filing the Justice Departments interest stems from Peters political alignment with U.S. President Donald Trump, and is therefore inappropriate.

In the order, Varholak wrote the motion to dismiss the statement of interest, which was filed by Weiser, was premature.
Since relocating to Grand Junction in recent years, Afghan families have established their roots in the community and begun to thrive.

Some of the younger immigrants have graduated from local high schools and received scholarships and awards from Colorado Mesa University. The older immigrants have become self-supporting after initial assistance in transitioning to their new lives.

Bob Hedlund, the director of Joint Development Associates (JDA) International, the organization that facilitated the relocation of 70 Afghans to western Colorado after the Talibans takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, said these immigrants are doing really well a few years into their journey  and he isnt concerned about their status moving forward amidst the Trump administrations sweeping changes to immigration policy.

When asked if he or his organization had any worries about the status of the 10 families who moved to the Grand Junction area, Hedlund responded that orders by the administration and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regarding deportations do not apply to them, as their relocation was bolstered by Operation Allies Welcome (OAW), a federal program to assist relocating Afghans after the Talibans takeover.

All Afghans arriving from Abu Dhabi and Albania are safe from deportation. Even if they do not have a Green Card (legal permanent resident), they are legally in the U.S. and not subject to the new administration immigration policies and TPS (Temporary Protective Status) removal orders. Most families and individuals in GJ have Green Cards and/or have applied for them, Hedlund said.

Afghan nationals who entered the United States through OAW and were given humanitarian parole are not affected by the recent termination of parole programs. The Department of Homeland Security has confirmed that the revocation of parole status applies to individuals who entered via the CBP (Customs and Border Protection) One app, not to those under special programs like Operation Allies Welcome (OAW) for Afghans. All of the Afghan families arrived via OAW legally and not illegally through the southern border.

Hedlund continued, There are organizations pushing the administration for more protected status for Afghans and for continuation of Afghans with Special Immigration Visa status to be brought to the U.S., as there are still thousands of Afghans left behind who had worked for years with the U.S. military and U.S. organizations.

JDA International worked in 2021 and 2022 to relocate 568 people from Afghanistan who had ties to JDAs work in the region, which focused on agriculture and infrastructure.

The Grand Valley Resettlement Program (GVRP) was established to accommodate the families when they arrives and help them transition to life in the United States. JDA International and the GVRP then collaborated in 2024 to launch ARISE (Afghan Resettlement, Integration, Stabilization, and Empowerment), a program that offers resettlement, employment, stabilization and integration services.
Nathan graduated with his journalism degree from Auburn University in 2017. After growing up in the flatlands of rural Alabama with his parents and older sister, Nathan enjoys Western Colorado's natural resources and recreational opportunities. He currently covers education and business for The Daily Sentinel.
China strongly condemns US blatantly attempting to lure Chinese personnel to be informants: Chinese FM

Global Times

Intl community must be wary of sinister intention of CIA: experts

By Deng Xiaoci and Li Yawei Published: May 06, 2025 04:48 PM

When responding to a question from the Global Times regarding the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) posting two Chinese-language videos on social media on Thursday for " recruiting Chinese officials to steal secrets," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Tuesday that the US not only maliciously smears and attacks China, but also blatantly attempts to lure Chinese personnel, even government officials, to be their informants. This is a serious infringement on China's national interest and pure political provocation, the spokesperson said.

China strongly condemns it. We will take all measures necessary to resolutely push back infiltration and sabotage activities from overseas and defend national sovereignty, security and development interest, Lin said.

The CIA released two Chinese-language videos on social media on Thursday US local time, aiming to recruit Chinese officials to leak secrets to the US, Reuters reported.

The move follows the CIA's October 2024 campaign to recruit new informants in China, Iran, and North Korea by posting online instructions on how to securely contact the agency, according to Reuters.

The CIA is confident the videos are reaching their intended audience an anonymous CIA official told Reuters, while adding that China was the agency's foremost intelligence priority in a "truly generational competition" between the US and China.

Spokesperson Lin said that the US has long been using all kinds of despicable methods to steal other countries' secrets, interfere in their internal affairs and commit subversion. Such behavior severely violates international law and basic norms governing international relations, and seriously endangers international security and stability.

The Chinese videos posted by the CIA on social media are another solid confession of what it does, Lin said.

Lu Xiang, a research fellow at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times on Tuesday that such a blatant public approach of recruitment by the CIA has been proved to be ineffective, and the two new videos the CIA posted are more of a political stunt, through which the CIA director hopes to testify that government funds are not being wasted.

Bloomberg described the effort as "part of a broader strategy by CIA Director John Ratcliffe to boost intelligence collection on China, which has become Washington's biggest competitor and adversary in areas including artificial intelligence and quantum computing."

The CIA's overt attempt to recruit Chinese officials to leak high-value and sensitive secrets to the US via such videos marks a public provocation and shows that the CIA has positioned China not merely as a strategic competitor, but as an adversary, Li Haidong, a professor at the China Foreign Affairs University, told the Global Times on Friday.

Lu noted that the CIA's intent is to foment a negative social atmosphere in China and stir up curiosity, thereby achieving the goal of undermining social stability and cohesion.

People must recognize the sinister intent behind this move of US intelligence agency, which exposed the highly dangerous nature of the US intelligence system, seeking to deepen divisions within China and escalate societal tensions to serve US objectives. Not only China, but the entire international community should be fully aware of the deplorable and poisonous true face of the US intelligence network, Li said.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Accountability sought as senators press probe into China-funded trolls

Philippine News Agency

By Wilnard Bacelonia

May 6, 2025, 2:24 pm

MANILA -- Calls for accountability intensified Tuesday as Senators Sherwin Gatchalian and Francis Tolentino pressed for a deeper investigation into a Makati-based public relations firm allegedly operating a China-backed troll farm.

Gatchalian urged the National Bureau of Investigation, Department of Justice and National Security Council to pursue a full-scale probe into the reported activities of InfinitUs Marketing Solutions, Inc. (IMSI).

"If proven true, those involved should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, including charges of treason and other serious criminal offenses," Gatchalian said in a news release.

"Panagutin at kasuhan ang mga nagpapakalat ng kasinungalingan at kabaluktutan para sa pansariling interes at layuning sirain ang bansa (Hold accountable and prosecute those who spread lies and distortions for personal gain and the purpose of destroying the country)," he added.

The senator's statement followed Tolentino's disclosure during a Senate hearing on Monday that IMSI's denials "fell flat" when presented against new documents detailing its alleged contract with the Chinese embassy to conduct social media operations.

One Chinese-language document outlined a PHP930,000 agreement for "project publicity guidance," which Tolentino said matched the amount on a check from the embassy dated Sept. 11, 2023.

IMSI co-founder Paul "Pin" Li acknowledged the check's authenticity but claimed it was used for Covid-19 supplies, a claim Tolentino disputed, citing the pandemic's declared end in 2022.

Tolentino also criticized the absence of IMSI's Filipino co-founder Myka Poynton and noted that another incorporator, Christine Li, was excused due to cancer treatment.

He further alleged that troll operations remain active, citing a recruitment notice posted at IMSI's Makati office seeking TikTok users with at least 200 followers. Li confirmed the notice was genuine.

Travel records presented at the hearing, being done to curb foreign interference in Philippine elections and to safeguard national sovereignty, showed multiple visits to China by IMSI officials, which Li insisted were personal. (PNA)

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Balikatan 25 | 3d MLR Participates in Integrated Air and Missile Defense

US Marine Corps News

4 May 2025 | 1st Lt. Anne Pentaleri III Marine Expeditionary Force

NAVAL STATION LEOVIGILDO GANTIOQUI, Philippines -- Balikatan 25 marked the first year that U.S. Marines with 3d Littoral Anti-Air Battalion (LAAB) partnered with Philippine Airmen with the 960th Air and Missile Defense Group. This new collaboration builds on the longstanding U.S.-Philippine military relationship, further strengthening our combined capabilities and mutual understanding.

"The Balikatan 25 Integrated Air and Missile Defense event is a demonstration of not only the Combined Force's critical defense capabilities, but also the U.S. and Armed Forces of the Philippines' ability to integrate air control, missile defense, and counter-UAS operations in support of a mutual objective," said Col. John G. Lehane, Commanding Officer, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment.

During the Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) event, U.S. Marines with the 3d LAAB's GBAD Battery demonstrated a new capability added to their formation in December. The Marine Air Defense Integrated System (MADIS), mounted on a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV), integrates multiple weapons into a single, highly mobile platform designed for low-altitude air defense.

The MADIS system is equipped with machine guns, chain guns, and air-to-air launchers, allowing gunners to detect, track, identify, and engage a variety of UAS using different missiles. This capability proved crucial during the event, as it highlighted the versatility and efficiency of the counter-UAS system in a real-world setting.

What sets the MADIS apart, and is especially valuable for the 3d MLR's ability to conduct Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations (EABO), is its ability to rapidly displace after completing a counter-UAS mission. This feature ensures the system remains mobile and flexible, essential for operations in dynamic, contested environments.

"The IAMD event during Balikatan 25 has been an amazing opportunity for the 3d LAAB team to integrate with and bolster the Armed Forces of the Philippines' coastal defense," said Lt. Col. Matthew Sladek, Commanding Officer, 3d Littoral Anti-Air Battalion. "I look forward to furthering the partnership between members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and 3d Marine Littoral Regiment as we continue to strengthen ties, build interoperability, and improve our collective lethality."

Participating in this year's IAMD event are U.S. Marines with 3d LAAB'S GBAD Battery and Tactical Air Control Element (TACE), as well as Marine Air Control Group 38, U.S. Soldiers with 1st Battalion, 51st Air Defense Artillery Regiment and 35th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, Philippine Airmen with 960th Air and Missile Defense Group, and a Philippine Navy guided missile frigate, the BRP Jose Rizal. The primary weapon systems employed during the IAMD are the U.S. Marines' MADIS and AN/TPS-80 Ground/Air Task-Oriented Radar (G/ATOR), the U.S. Army's AN/TWQ-1 Avenger, and the Philippine Air Force's Surface-to-Air Python and Derby - Medium Range (SPYDER-MR) missile system.



Balikatan 25 marks the 40th iteration of the longstanding annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military. Taking place from April 21 to May 9 across the Philippine archipelago, Balikatan 25 directly supports the ongoing efforts to operationalize our shared commitment to the 1951 U.S.-Philippine Mutual Defense Treaty by ensuring tactical proficiency, interoperability, capability development, and improved military-to-military coordination between our forces. The exercise advances our shared commitment to and support for a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

3d Marine Littoral Regiment is a dedicated U.S. Marine Corps unit specializing in amphibious and littoral warfare operations. Stationed on Oahu, Hawaii, and deployed throughout the Indo-Pacific region, 3d MLR is committed to promoting regional security and stability through strategic partnerships and collaborative efforts with Allies and partner nations.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Virginia Guard Soldiers, Tajikistan Conduct Battle Exchange Training

By Mike Vrabel, Virginia National Guard May 5, 2025

DUSHANBE, Tajikistan -- Four Virginia Army National Guard Soldiers recently conducted a close-quarters battle exchange training with members of the Tajik military.

The engagement was conducted April 7-11 through the Department of Defense National Guard State Partnership Program, which has paired Virginia and Tajikistan since 2003.

The Guard team comprised 1st Lt. Josh Jeffcoat, 1st Lt. Zane Seymore and Staff Sgt. Eric Shively, all of whom are assigned to the Lynchburg-based 1st Battalion, 116th Infantry Regiment, 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, and Master Sgt. John Luther, who is assigned to the Fort Belvoir-based 29th Infantry Division.

The exchange focused on developing and refining close-quarters battle fundamentals while fostering collaboration between U.S. and Tajik forces. Thirty Tajik participants, representing three sectors of the nation's defense forces, participated in the training. Their ranks ranged from junior officers to senior colonels.

Training occurred over five days of progressive instruction in a purpose-built shoot house with a catwalk. The exchange began with a focus on M4 rifle handling, stance and exterior movement to a building. Participants also were trained on room-clearing techniques, two and four-man entries, room-to-room transitions and hallway tactics.

The last two days of the exchange focused on full nine-man squad-level operations and execution of a full-building clearance in a scenario incorporating simulated civilian presence and enemy combatants.

"This exchange marked another successful event in the ongoing partnership, delivering key CQB instructions while encouraging the development of new standard operating procedures for Tajik defense forces," said Maj. Isaac Rivera, the Virginia National Guard's SPP coordinator. "The two-way engagement provided valuable insight into each nation's tactical approach and strengthened mutual respect and interoperability between forces."

This event reinforces the growing relationship between the Virginia Army National Guard and Tajikistan, promoting regional stability and long-term cooperation.

In July 2023, the Guard and Tajikistan celebrated the 20th anniversary of their formal partnership through the State Partnership Program. The program celebrated its 30th anniversary the same year. The relationship has benefited all parties and has resulted in shared subject matter expertise during 200 military-to-military engagements. Those engagements help counter terrorism, deter violent extremism, expand emergency response capabilities, develop professionalism among leaders and staff and promote shared values in national sovereignty and security.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






May 5, 2025

Release

Readout of Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's Meeting With Peru's Minister of Defense Walter Astudillo and Foreign Minister Elmer Schialer

Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs and Senior Advisor Sean Parnell provided the following readout:

On May 5, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth had a productive bilateral meeting at the Pentagon with Peru's Minister of Defense Walter Astudillo and Foreign Minister Elmer Schialer, to discuss U.S. national security interests and our countries' defense cooperation. Secretary Hegseth made clear that the Western Hemisphere is a top priority for the President and the Department of Defense. The Secretary praised Peru's commitment to enhance military interoperability with the United States. The discussion also included ways to further mutual defense priorities and regional security issues. Both the Secretary and the Ministers committed to increasing and building upon existing bilateral cooperation between our militaries.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/4175358/

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Germany stands by Israel - and is seeking to bring about a de-escalation

Germany - Federal Government

Middle East conflict

The Federal Government views the renewed escalation in the Gaza Strip with great concern. A ceasefire must be swiftly reinstated and strictly enforced. Hamas is urged to release all hostages. The goal must be to end the war.

Tuesday, 6 May 2025

Hamas launched an attack on Israel on 7 October 2023, firing thousands of missiles. Some 1,200 people were killed, and more than 200 hostages were taken, including individuals with German citizenship. "On the morning of 7 October, Israel woke up to a nightmare." This is how Federal Chancellor Scholz described the callous attack by the terrorist organisation Hamas on Israel. The suffering of the population on all sides is immeasurable, and the number of civilian casualties enormous, especially in the Gaza Strip.

Hope for ceasefire after agreement

Ever since the Hamas attack on Israel the Federal Government has persistently campaigned for a ceasefire. Federal Chancellor Scholz welcomed the agreement on a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages, among them German nationals. "The agreement must now be implemented consistently on a step-by-step basis: ultimately, all hostages have to be released," demanded the Federal Chancellor.

The longer the war lasted, the more obvious it became that while Israel had achieved many of its military goals in its fight against Hamas, the number of civilian victims and the suffering in the Gaza Strip are immense. Even after the first phase of the ceasefire comes to an end, it is essential to ensure that the residents of the Gaza Strip continue to receive reliable humanitarian and medical aid[HS1] . The Federal Government stands ready to provide further support.

Talks must now be held swiftly to secure the second phase of the ceasefire. A renewed escalation after the hard-won truce must be avoided at all costs. The goal must be a lasting end to the war. For this reason, Scholz emphasised: "Hamas is called upon to lay down their weapons once and for all. The Hamas terror must stop."

The Federal Government's thoughts remain with the hostages still in captivity and their families. Following the death of a German-Israeli mother and her sons, the Federal Chancellor stated on X: "Hamas has inflicted suffering and death on countless families. My thoughts are with all those who now have to come to terms with this terrible certainty."

Urgent humanitarian aid is needed for Gaza

The longer the war lasted, the more obvious it became that while Israel had achieved many of its military goals in its fight against Hamas, the number of civilian victims and the suffering in the Gaza Strip are immense. The people of Gaza urgently need humanitarian and medical aid - delivered consistently and reliably. The Federal Government stands ready to provide further support.

The situation in Gaza is growing worse with each passing day that aid fails to reach the region. Federal Chancellor Scholz emphasised this point at a joint press conference with Jordan's King Abdullah II: "This cannot and must not be allowed to continue," he said, adding that far too many people were suffering from hunger, from the ongoing brutal violence, and from the lack of medical care across the region.

Foreign Minister Baerbock: "We must not let this opportunity pass us by"

Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock likewise welcomed the agreement on a ceasefire: "The ceasefire has the potential to be a first step towards a genuine political process" and "we must not let this opportunity pass us by". A negotiated two-state solution remained the only solution that would allow Palestinians and Israelis to live in peace, security and dignity, said the Minister.

Support for the ceasefire in Lebanon

The Federal Government also continues to view with great concern the escalation of the Middle East conflict in Lebanon, in which numerous innocent civilians have been injured or killed. The ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah of November 2024 also offers hope, and this must now be implemented further: "It is crucial for everyone to stick to what has been agreed on so that those on both sides of the border can live in safety again," said the Federal Chancellor.

Foreign Minister Baerbock reaffirmed Germany's support for the Lebanese army and the people of Lebanon. The Lebanese army is now tasked with taking full control of the area south of the Litani River and ensuring stabilisation on the border with Israel.

The Federal Government stands firmly with Israel

In his government statement issued on 12 October 2023, the Federal Chancellor stated clearly: At this moment there is only one place for Germany: alongside Israel." Germany's history and the responsibility arising from the Holocaust made it Germany's perpetual duty to stand up for the existence and security of Israel, said Scholz. The Federal Government is acting in accordance with this principle. On the same day, the Bundestag expressed its cross-party solidarity with Israel.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






May 6, 2025

Transcript

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth Delivers Keynote Address at Special Operations Forces Week 2025

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth

SECRETARY OF DEFENSE PETE HEGSETH: I cannot tell you how humbled I am to be in this room amongst the absolute and very best that our country produces. You could pick any other ballroom in the country, including in Washington DC, and you're not going to find the likes of Americans like we have in this room. So, good morning and thank you very much for having me. And I want to thank the mayor and Senator Collins and all of Tampa for the incredible and wholehearted support that it gives to the United States military. SOCOM, CENTCOM have no better home than here on the Gulf Coast.

Looking out at this crowd and hearing Jay speak, I'm reminded of one of the first SOF truths, which is "humans are more important than hardware." More than any other military formation, I saw it in a small way as a conventional infantryman 20 years ago, SOF is about people, it starts and ends with the troops downrange.

Each of you and your commitment to the mission is more important than any of the cutting-edge hardware and software we're going to see on the convention floor. And I look forward to seeing it. Gathered here in record breaking numbers are warriors, patriots, innovators, entrepreneurs, visionaries, allies and partners. It is an absolute honor, and I mean it, to be here with you.

Special operations has never been more important for our country. Yesterday was actually my 100th day in office as Secretary of Defense. And as I said from the beginning, this is the deployment of a lifetime. Each day I get a chance to see, like few others do, the great work that SOF does around the world.

The battle tested team in this room is essential to everything that President Trump does in his leadership to put America first and establish peace through strength. I wish everyone in this room could have a chance to be in the Oval Office like I was yesterday and watch how this Commander in Chief puts the interests of our nation first in advancing the safety and security of the American people. It's a thing to behold.

That first and foremost includes defending our homeland, our border, Golden Dome, standing up to the Communist Chinese and, of course, increasing burden sharing with our allies and partners. Border security equals national security. And we're going to get 100 percent operational control of our southern border. And SOF is making a unique contribution there as well.

Our long-standing relationship with our partners in Mexico is crucial to supporting NORTHCOM and securing our border, something that's ongoing to this day.

But homeland defense, as you all know, first and foremost is a global mission. In the last six months, SOF has eliminated over 500 terrorists who threaten our homeland directly.

And alongside global SOF partners your team has captured at least another 600 terrorists.

So, it starts and ends with the homeland. That's why we do this. We don't fight because we hate what's in front of us; we fight because we love what's behind us.

But second, overseas we are reorienting toward deterring the Communist Chinese, no doubt our pacing threat. As America's experts in irregular warfare, SOF brings to bear unique capabilities and leverages critical partnerships. SOF's global efforts, below the threshold of conflict, which you all know, and often out of sight, create the very dilemmas that the Communist Chinese need as we shape their perceptions.

You see we have to convince Xi Jinping that today is not the day to test the United States' resolve. And SOF underpins deterrence in the Indo-Pacific. At the same time, you're preparing the battlefield and standing ready to help us prevail if China were to choose conflict.

And third, as I've said many times before, but it's important to hear today with so many of our partners, America First does not mean America alone. We shift our focus as we do to the Indo-Pacific, President Trump looks to our partners throughout the world to put their shoulder to the plow and take their share of the burden in their own defense, which is a message you've heard from me on the world stage multiple times and we will continue to yell from the rooftops.

We look to our friends to be force multipliers alongside the United States. It has to be a two-way street. We can't want your security more than you want your own security. How many times have we seen that? SOF is playing a key role in accomplishing this goal shoulder-to-shoulder with our allies, many of which, as I mentioned, are with us this morning.

In addition to these ongoing efforts, SOF provides lethal precision and timely crisis response options to the Commander in Chief, President Trump. He confronts the hardest challenges in the world. As you know, no one brings easy problems to the Oval Office, but SOF brings solutions. When called, SOF snuffs out urgent threats, rescues American citizens and protects our diplomats.

In the last three years, these and other presidentially directed missions have increased by 200 percent. SOF has answered the call, and SOF has risen to the challenge every single time. They're doing this day in and day out around the world and around the clock, and I don't have to tell this group, sometimes in open combat, but more often in the twilight challenges just short of war.

Most of you in this room have done just that. So, the question is, following two decades of conflict in the Middle East, where do SOF and DOD go from here? Well, from day one at the Department of Defense, our overriding objectives have been clear: restore the warrior ethos, rebuild our military and reestablish deterrence.

It all starts with restoring the warrior ethos. When President Trump asked me to take this job, he told me, well, one key thing, but really two. The first was, "Pete, you're going to have to be tough as shit, [laughter] [applause] they're gonna come after ya." Boy, he was not kidding about that one. This job requires a steel spine and that's fine.

My job's easy compared to what you do. We're doing the work on behalf of the American people and the American warfighter. But then the president, after he said that went on to say, I need you and I want you to restore the warrior ethos in our military full stop. And that's been my first priority since day one is restoring the warrior ethos.

It's one of the most fundamental of those three objectives. Again, humans more important than hardware. Everything starts and ends with warriors, from training to the battlefield. We are leaving wokeness and weakness behind. No more pronouns. No more climate change obsession. No more emergency vaccine mandates. No more dudes in dresses, we're done with that shit [applause] [cheering].

We're focused on lethality, meritocracy, accountability standards and readiness. That's why since Election Day, since President Trump was elected, recruitment and retention numbers are up historically. Attracting military service is something Americans have long been attracted to. But more so when they see leadership they want to follow.

They want to be in disciplined formations that value them not for immutable differences, not for the color of our skin, or gender, but because of honor and integrity and grit and patriotism. They want a meritocracy where they can work hard, make themselves better, kick ass and rise up. They're looking for adventure, camaraderie, risk, danger.

They want to push themselves and test themselves against others. They want to flourish in an environment that embraces hard work, discipline and the warrior ethos. Special operators know a thing or two about all of those. I've experienced it firsthand across the world.

I have a chance to get up and do PT with the troops oftentimes when we're traveling. And some people think it's a novelty, it's not  it's always been a basic part of military service. You get up early, you get up and you work out because we're going to be fit and we're not going to be fat. And even if the SecDef has a little bit of time to do it, every troop has an opportunity to do it. The problem is it went from let's do PT with the troops to every special operations group in the world trying to smoke the SecDef [laughter].

I find myself almost blacking out by the end of the workout [laughter] and then having to hand out coins and try to stay right ways up. Appreciate that. You, this group, have long been the standard bearers of what it means to be an American warrior, an exclusive club where the cost of membership is commitment, toughness, courage, grit, paired with accountability, intelligence and skill.

At times, and this is a key thing and something we've seen firsthand, when the broader force has strayed from the path, has strayed from sanity, has strayed from standards, you have been keepers of the flame.

So, it's great to see so many outstanding leaders this morning who embody that warrior ethos. General Fenton, thank you for your courage, your determination and your grit showing your forces what right looks like. And of course, Command Sergeant Major Shorter, the real boss of SOCOM.

Thanks for leading your troops and demonstrating that the US military strategic advantage lies in the strength, and it's true, of our NCO corps. Like so many other SOF leaders past and present, you have kept the flame of the warrior ethos burning bright.

In 1943, Naval combat demolition units were preparing for the imminent invasion of Sicily. Lieutenant Commander Draper Kauffman compressed their physical training program into a demanding week known as Hell Week. Even with the demand to get many more sailors to the line more quickly, Lieutenant Commander Kauffman kept the standards high. Between 30 to 40 percent of students failed the program, but those who graduated were ready.

Today, the standards remain high across special operations training programs and I thank you for that. In fact, we're doing standards assessments across DOD, and we started at special operations, multiple accessions courses. And the report back from the Green Berets and the Army Rangers that we sent the Navy Seals to those courses standards still high, sir.

We're heading out to other formations in basic courses to determine why those standards have dropped and to make sure they're raised. In this particular instance, it included the Navy's rigorous basic underwater demolition school or BUDS, which traces its roots to Lieutenant Commander Kauffman's training. As you know, it still features Hell Week, high expectations and high attrition  soft, fat, easy, weak, mushy and quitter are not the adjectives that attract these types of professionals, it's the opposite and this will continue. We will never compromise; we cannot compromise on standards. Our standards will be high and in combat formations they will be gender neutral because the weight of a 155 round or a rucksack or a human being doesn't care if you're a man or a woman.

All that matters is whether you are capable of executing that combat mission in front of you. I spend a lot of time in a town in Washington DC where there's a deficit in one thing, common sense. I mean that's why President Trump is so popular. That's why the American people responded, he leads with common sense.

He's asked me to apply common sense. Our combat formations don't need to look like Harvard University. They need to look like killers, trained and skilled and prepared. The standards need to be high, and they need to be gender neutral, so that if you can do the job, you're in that formation and if you can't, you are not.

That is restoring the warrior ethos, and it's something we've seen across our formation that the troops are responding to  morale, recruiting, retention, readiness, training, capabilities, responding to common sense and a back-to-basics approach. That's the warrior ethos. So, we start there.

Our second priority is rebuilding the military. And President Trump has declared and delivered on a generational investment, rebuilding our military much like Ronald Reagan did in the 1980s. Our goal is to put the best systems in the hands of our warfighters because you, our warfighters, should never be in a fair fight. We're doing this by reviving our defense industrial base, reforming our acquisitions process and rapidly fielding emerging technologies.

Sure, Golden Dome for America is a part of that. The new sixth generation fighter, NGAD F-47 is a part of that, B-21s are a part of that. But what we see today and what you see in your formations are the fielding rapidly emerging technologies which are critically important, that help us remain the leader in the world for generations to come.

Everyone here today from SO/LIC to the SOF Secretariat to SOCOM and every special operations network has a role to play in rebuilding our military. Special operations forces have long operated like a tech startup, you're agile and nimble, lean and lethal. You leverage innovation to get more capability, and you push the limits of technology and human performance in ways that conventional formations just cannot.

You adopt advanced technologies early, you make them better and then you help them spread to the rest of the joint force. You are willing to experiment and fail while learning from each failure and each success. We need you to keep doing that.

I get a chance to see it with my own eyes. When I travel, I see it in the reports that are sent up from General Fenton and others. That rapid fielding, that rapid iteration, that feedback loop is critical across the joint force.

And this tradition of rapidly introducing trailblazing technology can be traced, of course, to SOF World War II roots and the Office of Strategic Services. They developed briefcase radios, modified small arms and more which met wartime needs. Today, that means loitering munitions, AI enabled targeting platforms and new counter UAS systems.

I want to recognize and thank a few DOD pathfinders in these critical efforts. SOF AT&L and their expert team of teams led by Melissa Johnson, callsign Mojo, and the Irregular Warfare Technical Support Directorate led by Gabe Ramos.

With their rapid prototyping and innovative partnerships, these teams and others like them are moving out with a sense of urgency. While some in Washington talk about acquisition reform  and I'll tell you there's plenty of white papers out there that will tell you about acquisition reform  you, they are acquisition reform.

So, we want to thank our industry partners, many of which are here today, over 800 companies this year at SOF Week, you're an essential part of the global Special Operations network. I'm grateful that so many of you participate in the events this week to enable the SOF enterprise.

You must know what we need, and we must know what you can build. And together, we can broaden the boundaries of what is possible. Because as we rebuild the military, we have to unlock the creativity of our companies for our arsenal of democracy. Even though we're not a democracy, we're a republic and we need to start teaching that in our schools again, [laughter] [applause].

You know it's the basic stuff they slip by us, the small lies they tell us, those are the ones that grow in the minds of young people who then turn around and don't love their country. A huge part of ensuring we have a room like this full in the future is ensuring our kids and grandkids know why America is such a special place.

What our founders gifted us 250 years ago, there's a reason we're going to have a big old Army parade on June 14th of 2025. It's because what we celebrate in this country is a reflection of what we value. There are a lot of vapid things to celebrate, plenty of reality shows and garbage music and stuff on Netflix. How about we hold up our special operations community? How about we recognize the Army and the Marine Corps and the United States at 250 years, the sacrifice of those men who stood on bridges 250 years ago and said we will live free.

We have an incredible story to tell, if we're willing to tell it, and then if we're willing to raise young men and women willing and able to raise their right hand to defend this nation. Never compromise on what you believe and why. You raised your right hand  you raised it to defend our country and the Constitution. Know the why and share it with your kids and grandkids, encourage them to serve.

It was one of the challenges of the book I wrote before I had this job, The War on Warriors. I was asking myself the same question, do I want to serve in today's military given what has happened to it. And I can tell you 100 days in, watching our Commander in Chief, what he has been willing to do, the common sense he has applied, the courage he has shown, I look forward to having a military, my kids would  I would proudly ask my kids to join.

I've got a 14-year-old boy, I look out, he's my oldest and 13-year-old and 12-year-old. And I'm fighting right now to create the kind of formations, to provide the kind of platforms that would serve them should they have the courage to do exactly what all of you have done.

So, we need to continue to reward innovation, encourage creative solutions, move faster than ever before. As General Fenton points out, threats evolve now in hours, not in years. In fact, I saw a report this morning on the plane here that demonstrated our enemies are adapting in a matter of hours, not in a matter of years. Days if we're lucky.

We can't and we won't fight today's opponent at yesterday's pace. When our opponents know that our military is armed with the most capable weapons systems known to man, wielded by skilled warriors with the will to prevail, they are less likely to challenge us on the battlefield and that is the point. Which leads to our third objective, restore the warrior ethos, rebuild the military and, third, reestablish deterrence.

After four years of deferred maintenance under the Biden administration; after a disastrous retreat from Afghanistan, which we are still investigating and we'll get completely to the bottom of, especially DOD's role; after what happened in October 7th in Israel; after the war that was unleashed in Ukraine the world saw what it  after a frigging spy balloon flew over our country for a week, the world saw what it believed was a feckless America. Not anymore. And a huge part of it is SOF's capabilities.

In today's contested world SOF does not go alone. They go first, but they also go with partners. SOF's ability to work by, with and through international partners pays huge dividends on our border, in the Indo-Pacific and around the world.

Partners, as I see so many of our partners right here in the front, are central to how SOF works. They have to believe that America is strong, that peace through strength is real, then they want to come into our orbit and be force multipliers. I'm talking about generational relationships that we have built with partner forces around the globe.

I can't tell you how many meetings I'm in here or around the globe where I meet with foreign ministers or ministers of defense from allied countries, or countries sort of on the brink of whether they're going to go our way or the way of the Communist Chinese. And I'm looking at a minister of defense who was a part of an exchange program 20 years ago with US special operators, with Green Berets. Or they went to a military education school at Fort Benning 20 years ago.

And so, their affinity for US troops, for the United States is real. That is mostly, especially on the leading edge, a product of SOF. The level of cooperation between US SOF and our allies and partners is unprecedented in scale and invaluable from what we gain from it.

Today, there are over 6,000 US special operations professionals at work outside the US in over 80 countries. Representatives from 60 of those countries are with us here at SOF Week, and we welcome all of them. We also have international partners from 28 nations stationed right here at SOCOM. These relationships and partnerships take years to build, and the impact will be  could be in some cases decades from now.

But these allies and partners strengthen our militaries as they build their own Tier 1, Tier 2 special operations forces. No one does that partnership better than SOF. And I know it's not a surprise to any of you.

Again, it's in your roots. In World War II, joint US and British teams went behind enemy lines with resistance fighters in Europe. In Vietnam, SOF worked closely with South Vietnamese counterparts on some of the most dangerous missions, including daring rescues of downed pilots. And more recently, special operators have worked shoulder to shoulder with partners across the globe, like assisting our Colombian and Filipino partners in fighting against insurgents. And that tradition continues today.

Just last month I was in Panama and saw how closely the US and Panamanian Special Forces work together to combat shared threats and achieve common goals. Just watching in our own hemisphere in Panama, but it's not just Panama. The way in which the Communist Chinese, through malign influence, attempt to leverage their relationships and just straight up money with local leaders to try to pull them in their direction, it's happening in real time.

And yes, we have diplomats and there's politicians that think about these problem sets. But for the most part it's special operators, its COCOM commanders, its others who are on the ground partnering, creating that enduring bond and relationship with local forces that pulls them out of that orbit and toward the United States.

In an instance of the Panama Canal, that's key terrain, a choke point built by Americans that ought have our focus. And the point of that trip was to partner with Panamanians and take back the Panama Canal from Chinese influence, a strategic prerogative, the president has pointed out, that special operations plays a large role in. so SOF Week helps us build these generational relationships and they are needed.

Our adversaries are working together as well, China, Iran, Russia, North Korea. And so, we have to as well. Harnessing our partnerships gives us strategic and tactical advantage, achieving peace through strength. Under the leadership of President Trump, the message to our adversaries has been undeniably clear  America is back.

SOF amplifies this message and carries it to all the far-flung corners of the world. It's a pivotal mission that is laser focused on warfighting. As I know all of you are, we're restoring the warrior ethos, rebuilding our military and reestablishing deterrence. Enemy aggression will be met swiftly and harshly, and we're beginning a new golden age of America and a golden age of national defense. But there is no time to waste.

As General Fenton said, and he's right, we're in the midst of a special operation forces renaissance. And I know I can count on SOF to step up and meet this moment, to set the standards, to serve at the tip of the spear. And my pledge to you is the same pledge that President Trump has made to me that has asked me to share with all the formations I meet with when I travel abroad and talk to formations here at home.

He tells me to tell every warrior out there we have your back. That's all I ever wanted when I was a rifle platoon leader leading 40 men in combat. I wanted to know my company commander, my battalion commander, my brigade commander, my division commander had my back  in any difficult situation I was in.

Where split second decisions are made in the fog of war, sometimes you're right, sometimes you're wrong. Sometimes you hit the right target, sometimes you miss. Most politicians can't understand the impossible dynamics that our special operators face. Take what I experienced and make it 25x what special operators experience.

What he did in his first term, President Trump, and what he has pledged in his second and is ongoing to this day is we will have your back. As you execute violently the defense of our nation, our job is to ensure we have yours. So, I want to thank you for everything you do and the best gift I can give you is getting up every day, working as hard as I can with my staff from the West Wing to the Pentagon to ensure you have everything you need.

And when you make that tough call your Commander in Chief, your Secretary of Defense and your country are behind you because we are grateful  beyond grateful for what you, your families give on behalf of this nation.

No one serves alone, it's you, your kids, your spouses, your communities, your churches, the people that love you, the people that support you that believe in what we do. We have your back, and we love you too. God bless the United States and all of our warriors. Thank you. [Applause]

https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript/Article/4176603/

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






May 6, 2025

By Matthew Olay, DOD News

Hegseth Underscores Importance of Special Ops Community at Annual Conference

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth today highlighted the importance and significance of the U.S. special operations forces community while delivering a keynote speech at the Special Operations Forces 2025 annual conference in Tampa, Florida.

"I cannot tell you how humbled I am to be in this room amongst the absolute and very best that our country produces," Hegseth said.

"You can pick any other ballroom in this country  including in Washington, D.C.  and you're not going to find the likes of Americans like we have in this room. ... It's an absolute honor ... to be here with you," he continued.

The secretary began his remarks by pointing out how SOF significantly contributes to the nation's security, both at home and abroad. He noted that, in the past six months, SOF has eliminated over 500 terrorists who were a direct threat to the homeland.

"And alongside global SOF partners, your team has captured at least another 600 terrorists. So, it starts and ends with the homeland; that's why we do this," he added.

Additionally, Hegseth pointed out that presidentially directed SOF missions have increased by 200% in the past three years.

"SOF has answered the call, and SOF has risen to the challenge every single time," he said, adding, "They're doing this day in and day out, around the world and around the clock. ... Most of you in this room have done just that."

Hegseth said SOF brings unique capabilities overseas by leveraging critical partnerships that contribute to deterring China from conflict with the U.S.

"We have to convince [Chinese President] Xi Jinping that today is not the day to test the United States' resolve, and SOF underpins deterrence in the Indo-Pacific [region]," Hegseth said, adding that, at the same time, SOF is preparing the battlefield and standing ready to help conventional U.S. forces prevail if China were to choose conflict.

The secretary then shifted focus to how SOF contributes to his core priorities of restoring the warrior ethos, rebuilding the military and reestablishing deterrence.

He said recruitment numbers are rising because the country's young people work hard to make themselves better in a meritocratic environment.

"[Young recruits are] looking for adventure, camaraderie, risk [and] danger. They want to push themselves and test themselves against others. They want to flourish in an environment that embraces hard work and discipline and the warrior ethos. Special operators know a thing or two about all of those," he said.

Hegseth also thanked the SOF community for maintaining such high physical standards, noting that standards must be high throughout the armed services.

"The standards need to be high, and they need to be gender neutral," he said. "If you can do the job, you're in that formation. And if you can't, you're not. That is restoring the warrior ethos, and it's something we're seeing across all formations that the troops are responding to."

Hegseth said the entire SOF community plays a critical role in rebuilding the military.

"Special operations forces have long operated like a tech startup. You're agile and nimble, lean and lethal, and you leverage innovation to get more capability," he told the crowd.

He also discussed the role acquisition plays in rebuilding the military and thanked the hundreds of defense industry companies participating in this year's SOF Week, calling them "an essential part of the global special operations network."

Regarding deterrence, Hegseth said SOF's ability to work alongside international partners "pays huge dividends" regarding America's security.

"Our partners ... are central to how SOF works. They have to believe that America is strong; that peace through strength is real," he said. "Then they want to come into our orbit and be force multipliers," he added.

Hegseth assured the SOF community that they have the nation's support.

"The best gift I can give you is getting up every day, working as hard as I can with my staff ... to ensure you have everything you need," he said.

"Your commander in chief, your secretary of defense, and your country are behind you, because we are beyond grateful for what you [and] your families give on behalf of this nation."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






May 6, 2025

By Matthew Olay, DOD News

Nation's Leaders Turning More to Special Ops in Volatile Environment

The role of special operations forces in global conflicts has steadily increased amid what the U.S. Special Operations Command's top leader called the most complex security environment the United States has faced in decades.

Army Gen. Bryan P. Fenton, Socom commander, discussed the current and future role of special operations forces while delivering keynote remarks today at the start of Special Operations Forces Week 2025 in Tampa, Florida.

"For the most pressing problems facing the nation, senior leaders are turning to SOF [and] it's all against the backdrop of the most complex, asymmetric and hybrid threat security environment we've seen in 38 years of service," Fenton said.

He was joined by Socom's senior enlisted leader, Army Command Sgt. Maj. Shane Shorter.

Fenton said today's threat environment includes adversaries operating in isolation, multiple threats converging, and a rapid pace of technological change that hasn't been seen in the past.

"Special operations forces are the asymmetric strategic option for this volatile world; it's the theme of this conference for that very reason," he said, adding that SOF is a "scalpel" in "a world demanding precision."

Shorter said adversaries such as Iran, China, Russia, North Korea and various terrorist groups have begun merging efforts in what Socom labels a "fusion of foes."

"Threats aren't just coming together through convergence, they're collaborating," he said.

To counter this fusion, Fenton said SOF must operate asymmetrically  that is, through "unconventional," "irregular" [and] "asynchronous" efforts  across its three primary missions: crisis response, counterterrorism and deterrence. These efforts also include ongoing training and transformation to ensure future success.

"I think everyone in this room knows that we don't train and get it right once. ... We do it over and over and over again until we can never, ever get it wrong," he said.

Fenton added that SOF's global network of partners provides a critical advantage. For instance, special operations personnel representing 60 countries attended SOF Week 2025. He also noted that the crisis response mission demand for SOF has gone up 200% in the past three and a half years, which he called unprecedented.

Additionally, Shorter said the demand for SOF as a deterrent has increased globally by 35%.

"It's not by luck that we've been able to meet this demand  it's capability, it's training to standard, it's dedication and it's harnessing the power of partnerships," Shorter said.

Looking ahead, Fenton said SOF must continue doing what works while adapting quickly to changing threats.

"We're going to keep doing what we do best, and we know we [have to] transform to meet this changing and complex environment. We [have to] do it at speed and we [have to] do it to dominate," Fenton said.

He emphasized that SOF partnerships will continue to play a key role in building interoperability and shaping the environment before conflict even begins.

So, while adversaries have begun merging efforts and becoming a "fusion of foes," Fenton said he is relying on the strength of another fusion  the personnel attending SOF Week 2025.

"The fusion of what we have in this room  interagency, industry, academia, practitioners and policymakers  is tied together and galvanized towards irregular and asymmetric options," he said, adding, "We're the scalpel, but when the time comes, we can bring the hammer too."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Greenland: Speech by High Representative/Vice-President Kaja Kallas at the EP plenary on Greenland's right to decide its own future and maintain the rule-based world order

European External Action Service (EEAS)

06.05.2025

Strasbourg, 06/05/2025

EEAS Press Team

Check against delivery!

Opening remarks

Honourable President,

Honourable Members of the European Parliament,

Less than two months ago, on the 11th of March, the people of Greenland cast their votes. In April, a new government was confirmed by Greenland's parliament. The outcome is a government based on a broad coalition.

This is exactly how it should be. Government for the people, decided by the people.

Any decisions over Greenland's future should be decided in the same way: by the people of Greenland.

Greenland and Denmark have both emphasised this.

Because the only way to maintain the rules-based world order is the full respect of the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and sanctity of borders.

This is precisely why the European Union fully supports Denmark and Greenland and coordinates its positions with both.

Honourable Members,

The EU has long-standing relations with Greenland based on Greenland's status as an Overseas Country and Territory.

Our support for Greenland already helps Greenland pursue its own objectives, be it on education, green growth, including sustainable raw materials and renewable energy, or on security and connectivity.

In fact, the EU's collaboration with Greenland is the highest by far [among] Greenland's international partners: around 4% of the government's budget. And the EU will continue to invest in Greenland, in this mutually beneficial, values-based partnership.

President von der Leyen visited Greenland in March 2024. And together with the then-Prime Minister Mute B. Egede and in the presence of Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, she inaugurated [the] EU Office in Nuuk.

Having a permanent presence of the EU in Greenland is important for several reasons: first, it makes it easier for collaboration between the EU and the Government of Greenland, the private sector and civil society. Second, it helps us promote public and private investments in Greenland. And third, it helps us deepen our cooperation across a variety of fields, including education, renewable energy, critical raw materials, [and] biodiversity management and conservation.

Greenland is also increasingly important for the EU's geostrategic priorities in the Arctic.

The Kingdom of Denmark will take up the chair of the Arctic Council next week. For the first time, Greenland will, on behalf of the Kingdom, assume the chairmanship of the Council with Kenneth Hegh, newly appointed Arctic ambassador, as Chair of the Senior Arctic Officials.

And we welcome the particular focus on strengthening the participation of Indigenous Peoples and the inclusion of Indigenous Knowledge in the cooperation across the Arctic.

With the changing dynamics in global security, especially after Russia's invasion [of] Ukraine, there has been an increased focus on military activity in [the] Arctic.

And while there is no direct military threat, in a context of dual-use activities, economic security concerns, and the sabotage of submarine cables, it is essential to be vigilant.

The EU is addressing these concerns: in our "Joint Communication to strengthen the security and resilience of submarine cables"; in our cooperation with NATO; and in our security and defence dialogues with Arctic partners including Iceland, Norway and Canada.

Any security concerns must be taken seriously.

It is climate change, however, that remains the largest and most concrete threat to the Arctic. Arctic regions are disproportionately impacted by climate change. They are warming 3 to 4 times faster than the global average. Sea ice is melting away and permafrost is thawing.

This presents a serious challenge for peoples' livelihoods. The thawing of the Arctic Sea ice also opens potential shipping routes and access to natural resources. This in turn could lead to increased security tensions in the region.

We analyse these connections broadly in our Joint Communication on the climate and security nexus which was issued in June 2023.

Comprehensive and holistic security in the Arctic regions is crucial.

This means Maritime Domain Awareness, support for local populations and coast guards, as well as disaster response and regional development.

In this vein, the EU remains committed to its 2021 Arctic policy.

Our goal remains the same: to preserve the region's stability and promote peaceful cooperation, while addressing the multifaceted security challenges that climate change and geopolitical developments present.

Thank you.

Link to the video: https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/video/I-271344

Closing remarks

President, Honourable Members,

Thank you for this very good debate on this very challenging and topical issue.

It is [a] sad reality that we are talking about [the] Arctic - or the high interest in [the] Arctic - because of climate change actually.

That is why I think [the] European Union is also [a] partner to Greenland in efforts in the entire Arctic region, [to] address the effects of climate change, but also sustainable development and to support the livelihoods of people of this region.

I also heard a lot of you stressing this - and I totally agree with this - that borders are inviolable and territorial integrity must be respected. In [an] increasingly unpredictable world, I think it is more important than ever that we recall these principles that are the heart of the UN Charter and the United Nations - because they ensure peace. These are the principles that countries agreed so that there would be no more wars.

That is why, [and] I think you all stressed that, it is important that the European Union also does that. Because [the] European Union remains the credible and stable partner to the region as we enhance also our relationship with Greenland based on mutual benefits.

But we are also supporting the international rules-based order, because all of the countries in the world are actually looking at us. Whether these principles are applying or they are not applying anymore.

And then, we find ourselves in a world where actually might makes right. Whoever has more power when you take what they have interest in - and that is one very dangerous world.

Coming to Greenland, also like many of you stressed. The future and the destiny of Greenland can only be decided by the Greenland people. They should be able to make their choices free from outside pressure or external interference, as is the case for any of the democracies.

And, in close collaboration with Denmark, we stand with Greenland in upholding Greenland's right [to] self-determination.

Thank you very much for this debate.

Link to the video: https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/video/I-271347

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Prime Ministers of Finland and Luxembourg: Europe must invest in its defence

Finnish Government

Government Communications Department

Publication date 6.5.2025

Type:Press release

Prime Minister Petteri Orpo and Prime Minister of Luxembourg Luc Frieden met in Helsinki on Tuesday 6 May. Their discussions focused on European security, Ukraine, transatlantic relations and deepening economic relations between Finland and Luxembourg.

"In my discussions with Prime Minister Frieden, I drew particular attention to the permanent threat Russia poses to Europe. Given this threat, it is important to improve the capability and independence of European defence. We also had a long discussion on Finland's comprehensive security model. Prime Minister Frieden was very interested in preparedness and the comprehensive way Finnish society has been harnessed to look after our collective security," Prime Minister Orpo said after their conversation.

While in Helsinki, Prime Minister Frieden will visit the Merihaka civil defence shelter and the European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats.

The prime ministers saw good opportunities for deepening bilateral economic relations between their countries.

"There are opportunities for closer cooperation in areas such as digitalisation, circular economy and renewable energy. We also have common interests in the fields of health and education and in the space industry," said Prime Minister Orpo.

During his visit, Prime Minister Frieden also met with President of the Republic Alexander Stubb.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Israeli airstrikes hit Yemen's Sanaa, Amran; more uncertainties in regional tensions: expert

Global Times

By Shen Sheng Published: May 06, 2025 11:31 PM

Intensive airstrikes struck Yemen's capital Sanaa and the northern province of Amran on Tuesday afternoon, according to local residents. Israel later confirmed it carried out the strikes, stating they targeted infrastructure sites, including an airport and power stations, Xinhua News Agency reported on Tuesday.

Local witnesses reported thick black smoke rising over both Sanaa and Amran following the attacks. In Sanaa, the strikes hit Sanaa International Airport, the Dhahban power plant, and two military sites.

In Amran, about 60 km north of the capital, airstrikes reportedly targeted a concrete factory, said Xinhua.



At least four people were killed and 39 others injured in Israeli airstrikes on Yemen's Hodeidah province on Monday, health authorities run by the Houthi militant group said Tuesday in a statement, according to an earlier Xinhua report.



The Israeli airstrikes followed a Houthi missile attack on Sunday near Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport, which resulted in eight injuries.

The Houthis said the missile attack was retaliation for Israel's military campaign in Gaza, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to retaliate against the Houthis and their ally Iran following the missile attack, per Xinhua.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday an expanded offensive against Palestinian militant group Hamas would be "intensive" after his security cabinet approved plans that may include seizing the Gaza Strip and controlling aid, according to Reuters.

In response to a media inquiry regarding this issue, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated at Tuesday's press briefing that China is closely watching the situation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. We oppose Israel's continued military operations in Gaza, and hope that parties will work to enable the continuous and effective implementation of the ceasefire agreement and return to the right track of political settlement, said Lin.

"Israel's plan is actually aimed at reconstructing the political and security landscape of Gaza, rather than simple conquest. Following the announcement of the plan, the Houthis in Yemen attacked Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport to show solidarity with Palestine, forcing Israel to strike back against Yemen," said Wang Jin, an associate professor at the Institute of Middle Eastern Studies at Northwest University in Xi'an, with the Global Times.

Israel's high-profile announcement to expand military operation against Hamas is to apply extreme pressure to weaken Hamas' morale and defenses, and positioning Israel more favorably for future negotiations, Zhu Yongbiao, director of the Center for Afghanistan Studies at Lanzhou University, told the Global Times.

Zhu said that while there is a possibility of a deal being reached between Israel and Palestine, the biggest challenge lies in whether the agreement can be sustained in the long term, as there may be differences in how each side interprets it.

Although Israel's military actions are putting pressure on Hamas, they could also create more uncertainties, including extreme reactions, civilian casualties and a worsening humanitarian crisis. This adds complexity to the situation, and the likelihood of the agreement being reached and fully executed remains uncertain, Zhu added.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Oman announces ceasefire between U.S. and Houthis

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

May 6, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- Oman announced it has brokered a ceasefire agreement between Yemen's Houthi and the United States.

Oman made the announcement on Tuesday, shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States would no more carry out airstrikes on Yemen after supposedly hearing from the Houthi Ansarullah that they would no longer attack vessels in the Red Sea.

"They don't want to fight anymore. They just don't want to fight. And we will honor that, and we will stop the bombings," Trump said in the Oval Office during a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Tuesday.

There was no immediate confirmation from the Houthis.

"They will not be blowing up ships anymore, and that's what the purpose of what we were doing. So that's just news. We just found out about that. So I think that's very, very positive they were," he said.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Israeli military launched airstrikes on Yemen's capital, Sana'a, targeting the city's international airport and key power stations.

Israeli fighter jets bombed the civilian facilities on Tuesday, their second wave of strikes on Yemen in less than 24 hours.

The attack also came two days after the Yemeni Armed Forces fired a ballistic missile that evaded the Israeli anti-missile systems and struck near the regime's main airport.

Multiple international airlines canceled flights following the missile strike, which wounded at least six Israeli settlers.

The scope of the damage to Sana'a's international airport was not immediately clear.

2050**4482

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Israeli warplanes bomb Yemen's main airport in Sana'a

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

May 6, 2025

The Israeli military launched airstrikes on Yemen's capital, Sana'a, targeting the city's international airport and key power stations.

Israeli fighter jets bombed the civilian facilities on Tuesday, their second wave of strikes on Yemen in less than 24 hours.

The attack also came two days after the Yemeni Armed Forces fired a ballistic missile that evaded the Israeli anti-missile systems and struck near the regime's main airport.

Multiple international airlines canceled flights following the missile strike, which wounded at least six Israeli settlers.

The scope of the damage to Sana'a's international airport was not immediately clear.

In response to the attacks, Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a member of the political bureau of Yemen's Ansarullah movement, warned that the Israeli regime had crossed "red lines" and would soon face retaliation.

Speaking to Al Mayadeen television, al-Bukhaiti said that the United States and Israeli attacks on civilian infrastructure were a sign of their failure to deter Yemen.

He vowed that Yemen's military operations in support of Gaza will continue, regardless of the costs.

"We make it clear to them that they should expect a response from the Yemeni people," he said.

The official also rejected allegations that Yemen's operations were influenced by Iran, emphasizing that they were being carried out in support of Gaza and Palestinian resistance.

9341**4353

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Hawkish Israeli minister threatens Gaza with total destruction

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

May 6, 2025

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has threatened that Gaza will be entirely destroyed before its residents are displaced to other countries, after the Israeli military called up tens of thousands of reservists to expand the war.

"Gaza will be entirely destroyed, civilians will be sent to... the south to a humanitarian zone without Hamas... and from there they will start to leave in great numbers to third countries," the far-right minister said on Tuesday while addressing a conference about Jewish settlement in the occupied West Bank.

Israel has imposed a total blockade on the entry of food, medicine, and fuel to Gaza since mid-March after it broke a fragile ceasefire agreement with Hamas and resumed the genocidal war on the enclave.

Israeli officials have said that the new offensive, which Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday would expand, is aimed at pressuring Hamas to release the remaining Israeli prisoners still being held in Gaza.

Basem Naim, a senior Hamas leader and former health minister in Gaza, dismissed the idea of ceasefire negotiations with Israel as pointless as long as the Israeli regime continues to wage a "hunger war" in Gaza.

"There is no sense in engaging in talks or considering new ceasefire proposals as long as the hunger war and extermination war continue in the Gaza Strip," he told AFP.

Naim called on the international community to put pressure on Netanyahu and his cabinet to put an end to "crimes of hunger, thirst, and killings" in the besieged territory.

9341**4353

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran strongly condemns Israeli aggression against Yemen

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

May 6, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei has strongly condemned the Israeli airstrikes on Yemen's Hudaydah port and other infrastructures in violation of international law.

In a statement on Tuesday morning, Baqaei described the Israeli aggression against Yemen as "a crime and a gross violation of the principles and rules of international law as well as the United Nations Charter in respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries."

He called on the international community and regional countries to take effective measures to stop the bloodshed and destruction by the United States and the Israeli regime.

The only way to prevent insecurity in the region is to stop the genocide and crimes being perpetrated by the Israeli regime in Gaza and end the impunity of Israeli criminals, he emphasized.

The Israeli bombing of Hudaydah on Monday left at least 21 people injured and caused damage to infrastructure, including a cement factory.

Dozens of Israeli warplanes conducted airstrikes as the Yemeni Armed Forces escalate operations in response to foreign aggression and Israeli crimes against Palestinians.

The Israeli regime and its main backer, the United States, have conducted a number of such strikes in recent months, but Yemenis have repeatedly said they would not relent until Israel stops its "aggression against Gazans and lifts its siege on the Palestinian territory."

4399**9417

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Joint Statement by PM Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz

Israel - Prime Minister's Office

Media Statements

The 37th Government

06.05.2025

Pursuant to the approval of the operation and following the directive from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz, the Air Force, today , for the second time in 24 hours, attacked terrorist targets of the Houthi terrorist regime in Yemen.

Infrastructure of the Houthi terrorist organization at the airport in the Sanaa region, as well as several power stations that were being used for terrorist purposes, were destroyed.

Prime Minister Netanyahu:

"I have said many times that whoever attacks the State of Israel will pay the price. Yesterday I said that the Houthis' attack would not be met with a 'one-and-done' response but several responses. We gave one response yesterday: A severe strike on the port of Hodeidah. Today our planes attacked the airport in Sanaa, an airport that enables the terrorist army and allows for the entry by air to the terrorist state, which enables the firing of missiles at us.

Our choice of when to respond, how to respond and what targets to strike - is a consideration that we are constantly making. This also stems from the Houthis' patron - Iran, without the approval and longtime support of which, the Houthis would be unable to make this reprehensible missile attack against us.

President Trump said it a-month-and-a-half ago. I am also saying it today - we will settle accounts with whoever attacks the State of Israel.

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the IDF Chief-of-Staff; you, Commander of the Air Force; the intelligence; our marvelous air and ground crews; our amazing pilots; and everyone who took part. Congratulations on a perfect operation."

Defense Minister Katz:

"The Houthi terrorist organization attempted to attack Ben-Gurion Airport and in response today we destroyed the airport in Sanaa. We also struck additional targets, in continuation of the attacks yesterday on the port of Hodeidah, as well as additional national infrastructure.

Whoever harms us - we harm them seven-fold.

This is also a warning to the head of the Iranian octopus: You bear direct responsibility for the attack by the Houthi tentacle against the State of Israel, and you will also be held accountable for the results."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Flying Kiwi joins Aussies in monitoring North Korean sanctions

New Zealand Air Force

A New Zealand pilot has joined a Canadian counterpart aboard an Australian aircraft in a multinational effort monitoring United Nations sanctions against North Korea.

06 May, 2025

Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) Flight Lieutenant Philip Dunlop has just completed a deployment monitoring United Nations Security Council (UNSC) restrictions imposed on North Korea, while flying with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).

FLTLT Dunlop has been on exchange with the RAAF since the middle of last year.

Since then he has finished his pilot conversion course for the P-8A Poseidon aircraft and has been embedded with No. 11 Squadron at RAAF Base Edinburgh in South Australia.

Last month, he completed a three-week deployment with the Australian Defence Force's Operation Argos.

The P-8A crew conducted airborne surveillance of the waters around East Asia to capture evidence of ship-to-ship transfers of resources used for the North Korean nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.

FLTLT Dunlop was a co-pilot on the deployment and said it was the same type of deployment the RNZAF also takes part in, and is contributing to now.

He and his team were in the region looking for vessels suspected of evading UNSC sanctions, gathering intelligence on them and reporting them back to the Enforcement Coordination Cell, which is based in Japan.

"The P-8A is very capable and we can get a lot of intelligence from flying at a high level."

However, FLTLT Dunlop said there were challenges to flying in the busy maritime environment.

"We're constantly having to make sure the aircraft is in the right position to let the sensor operators in the back look at the vessels that are of interest and detect anything that's of interest and not get too far ahead or behind.

"Essentially we're helping to manage the workload of the back end of the aircraft and to be in the right place at the right time to gather that intelligence."

There were a number of benefits being embedded with an RAAF squadron, including that it was easy to fit in with the team as they operated in a very similar way to the RNZAF, he said.

"Being on exchange also allows us to get another perspective on how to operate the P-8A. I see how the Australians are operating it and I'm able to bring those skills and different ways of thinking back to the New Zealand P-8A operations."

Also on exchange with FLTLT Dunlop is a Canadian pilot, meaning three Commonwealth nations are represented in the aircrew, he said.

"It's just a really great crew to be a part of."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Targeting of MSF hospital may constitute a war crime, says UN Commission, urges immediate halt to hostilities in South Sudan

Press releases

Independent investigation

06 May 2025

JUBA/GENEVA -- The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan condemns in the strongest terms the deliberate aerial bombing of a Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) hospital in Old Fangak, Jonglei State - an atrocity crime that may constitute a grave breach of international humanitarian law and a war crime.

The early morning airstrike on Saturday, 3 May 2025, obliterated the hospital, killing at least seven civilians and injuring many, including patients, caregivers, and medical staff. The attack destroyed critical medical infrastructure and the hospital's pharmacy, cutting off tens of thousands from critical lifesaving care. Credible reports confirm further aerial bombardments in the Phom area of New Fangak in the early hours of 5 May 2025, where bombs reportedly fell between the compound of an international non-governmental organisation and the County Commissioner's office.

"This was not a tragic accident. It was a calculated, unlawful attack on a protected medical facility. The aerial bombing of the MSF hospital in Old Fangak is a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law and could amount to a war crime," said Yasmin Sooka, Chair of the Commission. "Targeting medical facilities and services violates the Geneva Conventions and represents a direct assault on foundations of humanitarian action that are intended to protect civilians in conflict zones. Those responsible must be identified, investigated and held accountable without delay."

The attack followed a public statement by the spokesperson of the South Sudan People's Defense Forces (SSPDF) on Friday, 2 May 2025, ordering retaliatory military action if hijacked vessels at Adok Port in Leer County were not immediately released by armed elements. The SSPDF warned that failure to comply would result in punitive aerial and riverine operations. This threat was issued shortly after the Government, in a strategic public announcement, categorized Nuer-majority counties by ethnicity into 'hostile' and 'friendly'naming Fangak, home to tens of thousands of Nuer civilians, as one of nine 'hostile' counties in its document titled The Strategic Response of the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (R-TGoNU) to the Nasir Incident.

"This strike does not seem to be an isolated incident  it occurred in the context of escalating ethnic profiling, unlawful detentions, and a hardening of positions within the political and military elite," said Commissioner Barney Afako. "Designating the entire community of Fangak as hostile is deeply irresponsible and may amount to incitement of reprisals and collective punishment. This practice must end, and such designations must be rescinded immediately."

The MSF hospital was the only major medical facility serving more than 40,000 people in the Old Fangak area. MSF confirmed the complete destruction of the hospital and medical supplies in the attack, which has deprived an already vulnerable population  displaced and traumatized by conflict  of emergency care, maternal health services.

"The targeting of medical facilities is not only unlawful - it is inhumane," said Commissioner Carlos Castresana Fernandez. "Hospitals must be protected spaces, not battlegrounds. What happened in Old Fangak is symptomatic of a growing impunity and disregard for human life that must be urgently addressed."

The escalation in political tensions and violence in South Sudan poses a direct threat to the viability of South Sudan's transition and jeopardises the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. The Commission urges the visiting delegations of the African Union Commission (AUC) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to press for the protection of civilians, and for accountability, and to urge signatories to the Agreement to return to political dialogue as the only means of addressing differences. The presence of AUC and IGAD in Juba should serve as a catalyst for urgent, high-level political engagement to urge all parties to return to dialogue and find their way back to implementing the Revitalized Agreement.

The Commission further warns that repeated violations of the cessation of hostilities is driving the country dangerously close to another nationwide conflict. "The path South Sudan is currently on is perilous," Sooka warned. "If attacks like these continue with impunity, the Peace Agreement risks becoming meaningless. The AU, IGAD and the international community must respond decisively."

ENDS

Background: The Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan is an independent body mandated by the United Nations Human Rights Council. First established in March 2016, it has been renewed annually since. The commissioners were appointed by the President of the UN Human Rights Council; they are not UN staff and do not receive a salary for their work. While the UN Human Rights Office provides support to the Commission, the commissioners serve in their individual capacity and are independent from any government or organization, including the UN. Any views or opinions presented herein are solely those of the mandated commissioners.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Israeli crimes in Gaza escalate amid international impotence -----Fait-accompli Gaza Strip faces a catastrophic situation

Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)

06-05-2025

Recent statements by the occupying forces and media reports over the past week indicate Israel's intent to escalate its actions in the Gaza Strip. The mobilization of tens of thousands of reserve soldiers, the announcement to extend the duration of the war, and plans to reduce aid while increasing control over an already isolated Gaza suggest a strategy aimed at maintaining its presence in the region for the coming months. This raises concerns about a potential humanitarian disaster that could be even more severe than the already deteriorating situation. Data shows that the Israeli occupying army is attempting to turn the exceptionally tragic circumstances faced by the people of the Gaza Strip into a "fait accompli."

Recent developments have seen occupying forces targeting farmers in Beit Lahia and fishermen along the coast of Khan Yunis. This strategy aims to deprive Palestinians of vital food sources following Israel's complete closure of the Gaza Strip. Palestinian sources have reported the deaths of 53 children due to malnutrition.

The World Health Organization, Amnesty International, and the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) have unanimously declared the situation in the Gaza Strip to be catastrophic, highlighting a significant international failure to address the crisis. UNRWA has stated that these actions amount to collective punishment against the residents of Gaza.

In its weekly report on Israeli crimes against Palestinians, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Media Observatory recorded 258 killings and 840 wounded between April 29 and May 5, 2025. Over the course of seven days, a total of 2,470 Israeli crimes against Palestinians were documented. Since October 07, 2023, a total of 53,503 Palestinians have been slaughtered, and 125,191 wounded.

The blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque has been subjected to daily raids by occupation forces, who have stormed the Marwani prayer hall within the mosque's courtyards. Their intention is to prevent filming during students' recitation of the Noble Quran. Additionally, the extremist minister in the occupying government, Itamar Ben-Gvir, has decided to close the offices of the Al-Quds Fund and Endowment for six months. Furthermore, occupation forces raided the Ibn Hanbal Mosque while conducting operations in the village of Ras Atiya in Qalqilya, confiscating the mosque's loudspeaker under the pretext of disturbing settlers.

In the cities and villages of the West Bank and occupied Al-Quds, there were a total of 374 Israeli raids. During these operations, the occupation forces arrested 157 Palestinians, including seven children, and injured ten others. One notable incident involved a raid on a girls' school in the Ras area of Beita, Nablus, where the occupation forces removed the doors. They also targeted a school in the village of Umm Salamuna, Bethlehem, where the Palestinian flag was taken down. Additionally, approximately 130 members of the teaching staff from schools in the northern Jordan Valley and about 150 staff members from schools in Jericho were prevented from passing through the Hamra checkpoint in the governorate.

Israeli occupation forces demolished 11 homes across Al-Quds, Ramallah, Bethlehem, and Hebron. They raided the UNRWA office in Jenin, causing damage to its contents. Additionally, they demolished a car wash and six barns in Hebron and filled in a water well. Palestinian families were forced to evacuate their homes in the Al-Ain refugee camp, where a residential building was converted into a military barracks. New evacuation orders were also issued for Palestinians in the Jenin refugee camp, which has faced numerous raids. Furthermore, several former prisoners and journalists were arrested.

Between April 29 and May 5, 2025, 13 settlement activities were reported. The Israeli occupation forces issued a plan to allocate land in the Wadi al-Hamra site, located in the village of Husan, for the construction of facilities in the Beitar Illit settlement, which was established on land occupied in 1967. This plan also includes the establishment of fuel stations.

In Sinjil, the Israeli occupation forces erected poles in preparation for constructing a 2-kilometer-long barbed wire fence that will separate the towns of Sinjil and Turmus Ayya from the Ramallah-Nablus Road. In the Khirbet al-Deir area of Tubas, settlers placed cement blocks around several springs to control access and prevent Palestinians from using the water for irrigation.

Additionally, settlers have paved a settlement road and conducted extensive excavation work on Palestinian lands in the Wadi al-Asira area, which is located on the eastern side of Tel Ma'in, east of the town of Yatta. This work aims to expand the planned "Avigal" settlement outpost. Furthermore, settlement road construction has progressed south of Bethlehem.

In Qusra, a town in Nablus, settlers began to pave a dirt road and erected a fence around agricultural land located east of Yatta. They also set up a mobile room in this area, preventing landowners from accessing their property.

Settlers have bulldozed a section of agricultural land to widen the roads of the "Bracha" settlement in the village of Iraq Burin, located in Nablus. Additionally, others have erected new arbors near Palestinian homes in the al-Farisiya area of Tubas, tents on top of Mount Gerizim, and tents in the village of Duma, also in Nablus. In the al-Sir area, they have planted olive trees and raised flags of the occupying forces.

Attacks by settlers on Palestinian towns and villages reached 75 incidents over the course of seven days. Settlers entered agricultural lands and cut down, uprooted, and burned several olive trees in the village of Ramin in Tulkarm, the village of Duma in Nablus, and al-Rikiz in Hebron. They also grazed their sheep on Palestinian agricultural lands in the Umm al-Quba area in Tubas, the village of al-Minya in Bethlehem, and the Masafer Yatta area in Hebron.

In addition, they destroyed solar panels intended for energy generation in the village of al-Nasariyya in Nablus and in Khirbet al-Deir in Tubas. They damaged tents, slashed the tires of a water tanker, and stole 70 heads of cattle from the village of al-Nasariyya. They also seized a water pump in Khirbet al-Deir and a 4-kilometer water pipeline in the villages of al-Maleh and Khirbet Yarza in Tubas. Furthermore, they stole a tractor in the village of Ramin in Tulkarm, as well as a coffee pot and three cell phones in the village of Bziq in Tubas.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Meeting of the UN Security Council on the India-Pakistan Question

Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The United Nations Security Council held closed consultations today under the agenda item "The India-Pakistan Question". The meeting was held to discuss the deteriorating regional security environment, heightened tensions between India and Pakistan and the situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The meeting was convened at Pakistan's request, in view of India's recent unilateral measures and provocative public pronouncements that have significantly increased the risk of military confrontation and threatened regional and international peace and security.

During the meeting, Council members expressed deep concern over the growing risk of escalation and emphasized the urgent need for restraint and de-escalation. They called for dialogue and diplomacy to defuse tensions and avoid military confrontation and conflict and to peacefully resolve issues. Several members underscored that the long-standing Jammu and Kashmir dispute was the root cause of regional instability, and it must be resolved in accordance with relevant Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Many Council members underlined respect for international law and obligations with reference to the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty by India.

Briefing Council members, the Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, highlighted India's provocative actions, including its unilateral measures announced on 23rd April and aggressive military posturing. He cautioned that these actions were unjustified and dangerous, and could lead to catastrophic consequences.

Council members were apprised of intelligence indicating an imminent threat of kinetic action by India against Pakistan. It was made clear that Pakistan remained fully prepared to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity and would exercise its inherent and legitimate right to self-defence as enshrined in the UN Charter in case of any aggression. However, Pakistan reaffirmed that it did not seek escalation.

Pakistan categorically rejected India's baseless allegations linking it to the 22nd April attack in IIOJK and highlighted that India's unfounded accusations were made without any investigation or credible evidence. It was emphasized that such incidents must not be allowed to be used to justify aggression or violate international law. It was recalled that India had exploited these incidents in the past to undermine and delegitimize the just struggle of the Kashmiri people for self-determination and to hide its own state terrorism and grave violations of human rights in IIOJK. India's involvement in state-sponsored terrorism against Pakistan and targeted assassinations in Pakistan and elsewhere was also highlighted.

Council members were also briefed on India's unilateral decision to hold in abeyance the historic Indus Waters Treaty of 1960, a legally binding agreement, brokered by the World Bank. Pakistan warned that any attempt to obstruct or divert the natural flow of its share of river waters would constitute an act of war.

Pakistan welcomed calls by the UN Secretary-General to offer his good offices and Council members for dialogue and de-escalation, and intensified diplomatic efforts to defuse tensions. It is imperative for the international community, in particular the Security Council, to act with urgency and responsibility to avoid a conflict that could have catastrophic consequences for South Asia and beyond.

It is pertinent to mention that the "India-Pakistan Question," is one of the oldest items on the agenda of the UN Security Council, under which the UN Security Council remains seized of the Jammu & Kashmir dispute.

Islamabad

6 May 2025

125/2025





NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






NSA: Security challenges in South China Sea unlikely to ease soon

Philippine News Agency

By Priam Nepomuceno

May 6, 2025, 2:35 pm

MANILA -- National Security Adviser (NSA) Eduardo Ano on Tuesday said security challenges in the South China Sea are unlikely to be reduced anytime soon.

"The Philippines recognizes the challenges in the South China Sea are unlikely to diminish anytime soon. The situation becomes even more complex due to potential flashpoints in the area which continue to evolve amid rising geopolitical and geoeconomic tensions and shifting global security dynamics," Ano said in his speech at the Stratbase Institute and Stanford University's Sealight Project online forum titled "Scarborough Shoal: Facing Facts and Exploring Options."

The NSA attributed the tensions to China's baseless, excessive and expansive territorial claims, militarization, and confrontations with its neighbors -- things that simply cannot be disregarded.

Ano also emphasized that while these complexities are not easy to navigate, the Philippines committed to the fundamental tenet of sovereign equality of states and amity with all nations.

These objectives, Ano stressed, have always remained even when the country's lawful interests and rights are being endangered and compromised.

"By putting forward our vision of greater peace, stability and prosperity, not just in the region but around the globe, we have created a clear and resonating message that preserving our territorial integrity is foundational for the Philippines and is of (course, non-negotiable) which is why our call for respect for legitimate interests and legally settle rights of all parties reverberates ever so loudly across the region and beyond as protecting the WPS (West Philippine Sea) impacts not just us but also the whole world since 60 percent of the world's commerce passes through the area," he added.

The NSA also added that securing the WPS is needed as it equates to the survival of the Philippines and its people.

Its preservation as Philippine territory is also instrumental for the country to attain prosperity and a sustainable future, he added.

Aside from this, Ano said maintaining peace and harmony in the WPS will help promote national solidarity and enhanced respect for the country and its people. It will broaden the Philippines' sphere of influence and strengthen its position in the community of nations.

"China's continued presence in Scarborough Shoal since 2012 after a three-month standoff is a clear contrast to what we advance in our collective pursuit of a stable, just and rule-based maritime order," the NSA said.

Ano likewise raised concern over Philippine territories being subjected by China to adverse claims and illegal occupation or control.

"Disregarding the 2016 arbitral ruling, which effectively invalidated its maritime claims in the BDM (Bajo de Masinloc, the other name of Scarborough Shoal), China went on conducting aggressive actions not just in Scarborough but also in other areas. China fishing vessels, China Coast Guard vessels, and even People's Liberation Army Navy ships have become permanent fixtures in the area with their swarming and unlawful presence and activities," he added.

With the deployment of their vast maritime and naval assets, the NSA said China resorted to conducting more bolder moves in its bid to control other Philippine territories.

This includes conducting dangerous maneuvers with foreign vessels, laser-pointing and flare-firing, firing of water cannons, unprecedented island-building and reclaiming of unoccupied features, dispersing and driving away Filipino fisherfolks, and unauthorized marine scientific research and hydrographic surveys, among others.

In response to China's illegal, coercive, aggressive and deceptive tactics, Ano stressed that the Philippines and its allies anchored its strategies in the WPS on pre-national interests.

"These are the preservation of territorial integrity, protection of economic interests, and the promotion of regional stability, which are all embodied in the National Security Policy 2023 to 2028. Responding to the call of no less than our President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., in which he envisions a South China Sea that springs peace, stability and prosperity, we have ensured that our strategies protecting and advancing our national interests are well-coordinated and synergized, maximizing all instruments of national power and mixing the right combinations of initiatives to counter these illegal, coercive, aggressive and deceptive actions," he added.

To counter this, the NSA said the Philippines is working to address gaps and this includes crafting a long-term policy for the WPS, one that would ensure its continuity and sustainment, as the government pursues our agenda in view of geopolitics and international relations.

"We have also taken important steps in building and developing defense and civilian maritime law enforcement capabilities, capacitating human resources and capitalizing on existing and new security partnerships with like-minded allies. Our robust, credible and self-reliant defense system is on top of our priorities to meet any challenge to our sovereignty, sovereign rights and maritime jurisdictions," he added. (PNA)

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






PH, US troops train on airfield repair, ordnance disposal

Philippine News Agency

By Priam Nepomuceno

May 6, 2025, 10:52 am Updated on May 6, 2025, 3:28 pm

MANILA -- Philippine Army (PA) engineers along with their American counterparts have trained together as part of efforts to enhance their capabilities in airfield damage repair (ADR) and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD).

In a statement Tuesday, PA spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said these training activities are part of the ongoing "Balikatan" exercises and involved troops from the Army's 53rd Engineer Brigade along with US military personnel.

He added that the ADR and EOD training activities started in Cebu last April 21 when "Balikatan" formally started.

The ADR expert exchange focused on lectures on ADR familiarization, crater repair, formworks installation, and crushed stone restoration.

These lectures were followed by simulation exercises in front of the Visayas Command Grandstand.

Subsequently, practical ADR training exercises were conducted at Camp Cadre, Poblacion Medellin, Cebu, where participants had the opportunity to apply the knowledge gained from the lectures and assessments in a realistic field environment.

The annual military drills between Filipino and American units are expected to conclude this May 9.

"ADR and EOD skills are crucial in ensuring mission success as they ensure operational continuity through the rapid restoration of damaged runways and removal of explosive hazards," Dema-la said.

Meanwhile, 53rd Engineer Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Maynard Camarao described the training exercises as a "strategic investment in readiness, resilience, and friendship" that highlights the enduring value of Philippine-US cooperation in enhancing regional security and strengthening disaster response efforts.

Exercise "Balikatan", which means "shoulder-to-shoulder" in Filipino, is one of the longest-standing bilateral military exercises between the Philippines and the United States.

The drills aim to strengthen the alliance between the two nations while bolstering combined and joint force capabilities and demonstrating a shared commitment to regional stability in the Indo-Pacific Region. (PNA)

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Yemen warns Israel after aggression: Response is coming

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 May 2025 11:33 PM

A senior Yemeni official has issued a stern warning to the Israeli regime following the latter's intense aerial aggression against the Arab Peninsula nation.

"The response is coming," Mohammad Ali al-Houthi, a high-ranking member of Yemen's Supreme Political Council, said on Tuesday.

He asserted that the nation would sustain its unyielding support for the Gaza Strip -- which has been suffering under a genocidal United States-backed Israeli war since October 2023 -- by continuing to target the occupied Palestinian territories.

"The Yemeni people will not be intimidated by American and Israeli terrorism," the official added, referring to both the Israeli aggression and other airstrikes against the country by the United States, Tel Aviv's biggest ally.

The US markedly intensified its deadly attacks against Yemen in March as a means of trying to stop Sana'a's pro-Palestinian strikes against Israeli targets.

'US-Israeli crimes in Yemen not short of genocide in Gaza'

Al-Houthi said the US-Israeli crimes in Yemen "are the same genocidal crimes they commit in Gaza."

He, however, asserted, "What we refused to [witness] continue in Palestine, we will not accept being passed on in Yemen."

"[Israeli prime minister Benjamin] Netanyahu must prepare his resignation, for his crimes are failed terrorism," the official said.

Yemeni President Mahdi al-Mashat also echoed these sentiments, asserting, "There will be no retreat from supporting Gaza, no matter the cost."

'Israeli settlers should either hide or leave'

"What has happened proves that our strikes are painful and will continue," Mashat added, noting that the Israeli aggression against Yemen indicated that Tel Aviv had suffered extensively as a result of the Yemeni strikes.

He, meanwhile, warned the Israeli regime's illegal settlers to either seek shelter or leave, as their regime could no longer guarantee their safety.

Ansarallah vows continued resistance, retaliation

Additionally, Yemen's Ansarallah resistance movement's Political Bureau denounced the Israeli attacks on civilian facilities, including ports, airports, and power stations, as evidence of the regime's desperation.

It affirmed that such aggression would not deter Yemen from its supportive stance towards Gaza and called upon the international Muslim community to take effective action against Zionist and American arrogance.

Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a member of the bureau, also stated in an interview with Lebanon's al-Mayadeen television network that "the Zionists have crossed red lines, and they should expect a Yemeni response."

On another note, he emphasized that Yemen's operations were being coordinated with Palestinian resistance groups and were not influenced by external parties, such as Iran, as the US and its allies were trying to project.

Earlier in the day, Israeli warplanes launched significant airstrikes on the Yemeni capital Sana'a's airport.

Additional Israeli strikes targeted Yemen's lifeline Red Sea port city of al-Hudaydah and other infrastructures, resulting in civilian casualties.

The attacks came after a Yemeni ballistic missile struck the vicinity of the regime's Ben Gurion Airport on Sunday, injuring at least seven.

The projectile bypassed four layers of missile systems and landed at the heart of the facility, with both Arrow and THAAD systems failing to intercept it.

The Israeli airstrikes also followed Yemeni forces' announcing imposition of a comprehensive aerial blockade on the Israeli regime, warning international airlines to suspend flights to airports in the occupied Palestinian territories to ensure passenger safety.

The blockade aims to ramp up pressure on the regime to cease the war of genocide on Gaza and also stop a simultaneous siege that it has been enforcing on the coastal sliver.

Yemen is already enforcing a naval blockade against ships carrying commodities, including military cargoes, to the occupied territories in line with its pro-Palestinian stance.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






India attacks 'terrorist sites' in Pakistan, Islamabad reports 'heavy casualties'

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 May 2025 9:38 PM

India announces attacking nine sites in Pakistan and the Pakistan-administered Kashmir, targeting "terrorist infrastructures," while Islamabad reports scores of casualties.

The Indian ministry of defense announced the strikes in a statement on Wednesday, saying they had hit the targets "from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," describing the attacks as "Operation Sindoor."

The statement said the ministry would release detailed briefing of the operation later in the day.

Pakistani broadcaster Geo cited the Pakistani military's Inter-Services Public Relations as announcing that eight Pakistanis had been killed in the attacks, including a 16-year-old girl, and 35 others had been wounded.

A Pakistani military spokesman told the broadcaster that sites struck by India included two mosques.

Both sides' armies, meanwhile, reportedly exchanged heavy shelling and gunfire across the border between the Pakistan-administered Kashmir and the Indian-administered Kashmir in at least three places.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Islamabad was mounting a response, but did not provide details.

Sharif condemned India's attacks, and vowed that Islamabad would respond forcefully.

"The enemy has once again shown its deceitful nature," he said, according to Geo.

Pakistan announces downing 'five Indian jets'

Pakistan had, on several occasions, announced recently that it had "credible information" pointing to pending Indian attacks, and vowed to retaliate accordingly.

Later on Wednesday, Geo reported that Pakistan's armed forces had shot down "five Indian Air Force (IAF) jets."

The troops also brought down a drone and destroyed brigade headquarters after India carried out strikes in the cities of Punjab and Azad Kashmir, it added.

India: Attacks were 'surgical but non-escalatory'

The Indian ministry described the operations as "precision strikes at terrorist camps" and "terrorist infrastructure" in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

It, however, said, "Our actions have been focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature."

"No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution."

Pakistan: Targets were 'civilian'

Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, however, told Geo that all sites targeted by India were "civilian" and not terrorist camps.

He said India had fired missiles from its own airspace and the latter's assertion of targeting "camps of terrorists is false."

The developments follow the terror attack in the town of Pahalgam in the Indian-administered Kashmir that claimed the lives of at least 26 tourists on April 22, 2025.

The Indian defense ministry statement asserted that Operation Sindoor had come in the wake of the "barbaric" Pahalgam terrorist attack, identifying the fatalities as 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen.

"We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable."

Pakistan has rejected any role. Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar had most recently rejected, what he called, India's narrative regarding ongoing issues, and said that New Delhi was facing "diplomatic embarrassment [concerning the matter] on the global stage."

Conflict over water

After the terrorist indecent, both countries began taking tit-for-tat measures.

India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, a water-sharing agreement mediated by the World Bank and signed in 1960, and closed the Wagah-Attari border crossing.

On Tuesday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said water from the country that once flowed across borders would be stopped.

"India's water used to go outside, now it will flow for India," he said in a speech in New Delhi, adding, "India's water will be stopped for India's interests, and it will be utilized for India."

Pakistan has described India's measures as tampering with its rivers that would be considered "an act of war."

For its part, Islamabad has suspended visas issued to Indian nationals, closed its airspace to Indian airlines, and test-fired several long-range missiles.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






20 Palestinians, including 7 children, killed after Israel bombs school in Gaza

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 May 2025 6:52 PM

At least 20 Palestinians, including seven children, have been killed and dozens more injured after an Israeli airstrike hit a school-turned-shelter in the central Gaza Strip.

The strike targeted displaced civilians sheltering at Abu Hamisa school, which is located to the east of al-Bureij refugee camp.

Witnesses and local residents said the bodies of the Palestinians were hurled into the air above the school buildings due to the intensity of bombardment.

The injured were rushed to the Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir al-Balah as well as to Al-Awda Hospital in Nuseirat.

The hospital spokesman said there were not enough medical supplies to deal with the influx of the injured.

Meanwhile, medical sources said that rescue and emergency teams were attempting to pull the bodies trapped under the rubble.

Since Tuesday dawn, Israeli airstrikes have killed more than three dozen civilians across the besieged Palestinian territory.

In the last 24 hours, the bodies of 48 Palestinians and 142 injured were brought to hospitals across Gaza.

Hamas censures Bureij attack as 'heinous war crime'

The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas condemned Israel for "targeting defenseless civilians in places of refuge and shelter."

"The Bureij massacre is a heinous war crime that requires the prosecution of the occupation's leaders in international courts as war criminals," Hamas stated.

Hamas called on the international community, including the UN, "to break their silence and take urgent and effective steps to stop the massacres" in Gaza.

Israel has massacred 52,945 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured 118,366 others in Gaza since October 2023, according to the health ministry of Gaza.

Moreover, at least 10,000 people are unaccounted for, presumed dead under the rubble of their homes throughout the blockaded region.

The Israeli campaign of genocide has also resulted in the forced displacement of nearly two million people from all over Gaza.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Chinese electronic component sector solidifies competitiveness amid external pressure

10:24, May 07, 2025 By Hu Weijia ( Global Times

(Illustration: Liu Xidan/GT)

Prominent domestic and foreign financial institutions, such as the China International Capital Corp, BlackRock, and Citigroup, have been conducting research on Chinese electronic component companies, including Luxshare Precision, Anker Innovations, and Crystal Optoelectronics, according to a report by the Securities Times on Tuesday. It added that several listed companies believe that despite ongoing external disturbances, the true determinants of a company's ability to weather economic cycles are its core competitiveness and global operational capabilities.

This trend not only underscores the continued interest and focus of investment institutions on China's electronic component sector but also emphasizes the resilience of the Chinese industrial chain in the face of global complexities.

Electronic components are the backbone of numerous electronic devices, determining their performance and quality. With the growing integration of industrialization and informatization, electronic components have permeated every industrial sector, serving as the cornerstone and driving the innovation and development of the entire industry.

Electronic components are widely applied across various industries. Taking multilayer ceramic capacitors as an example, on average, each smartphone contains more than 1,000 units, each communication base station uses more than 6,000 units, and each new-energy vehicle is equipped with more than 10,000 units.

Over decades of development, China has established the largest electronic component industrial system in the world in terms of both production and sales. China's electronic component industry has a comprehensive range of categories, and the industrial chain has been initially perfected, according to the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25) for China's electronic component industry, published by the China Electronic Components Association in September 2021.

Given its status as the world's foremost hub for the production and sale of electronic components, it's unsurprising that China's electronic component sector has caught the eye of investors. Currently, although the US frequently wields the tariff stick, which presents challenges to the global industrial chain, several factors continue to bolster the inherent growth potential of China's electronic component industry in the face of ever-changing external conditions.

First, there has been a sustained increase in research and development (R&D) investment. According to the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25) for China's electronic component industry, during the 13th Five-Year Plan period (2016-20), the top 100 companies in the electronic component industry saw their R&D intensity increase from 3.54 percent in 2015 to 4.19 percent in 2020. This year, the goal is for R&D spending to reach 5 percent of each company's main business revenue.

Second, the domestic market holds significant potential. Thanks to the rapid development of China's industrial sectors, such as new-energy vehicles and medical electronic devices, the high-end domestic market for China's electronic component industry is poised for further expansion. This expansion provides the essential market conditions needed for the continuous development and upscale transformation of China's electronic component industry.

Third, Chinese firms are proactively adapting to shifts in the global market. As reported by the Securities Times, Chinese enterprise Anker Innovations has declared its intention to maintain pace in the development of new product lines. By consistently enhancing their competitive edge, notably through the introduction of innovative products, the inherent dynamism of companies in China's electronic component sector is set to receive an additional boost.

The development of China's electronic component sector is driven by a combination of factors, including but not limited to strengths in R&D, market dynamics, and corporate strategies. These factors collectively create a robust internal momentum that supports the industry in facing external challenges.

Data from the China Electronic Components Association showed that in the first quarter, the total trade of China's electronic component products sector increased by 7.53 percent year-on-year. This included exports of $38.226 billion, an 11.97 percent year-on-year increase.

Certainly, there are areas where China's electronic component industry falls short, especially in cutting-edge sectors, where it still lags behind the world's leading companies. However, as long as Chinese firms continue to focus on enhancing their core competitiveness in the face of external pressures, along with other factors, the potential of China's electronic component sector could further expand.

The author is a reporter with the Global Times.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
These eight SC State graduating seniors were inducted into the teaching profession on Monday in the Fine Arts Building's Barbara A. Vaughan Recital Hall.

Eight SC State graduating seniors have joined the teaching profession.

ORANGEBURG, S.C.  Indira Davis has known since age 5 that she was meant to teach.

Dean M. Evelyn Fields presents Indira Davis with her induction certificate. Soon, with a degree in early childhood education from South Carolina State University, she will head back to her hometown of Florence, South Carolina, to begin her career in a kindergarten classroom.

I love kids. I feel like it's always been my destiny, and I feel like I'm responsible for making an impact in helping bring in good people into the future, Davis said

Davis was one of eight graduating seniors inducted into the teaching profession on Monday during SC States Educator Induction Ceremony ahead of Fridays Spring Commencement. The tradition celebrates the journeys that led the students to become teachers and the promise they bring to the profession.

Davis was inspired at a young age by the educators in her life.



"I just feel like my teachers, they always gave me something to look for every day, she said. And so, I wanted to do the same for other students.

She completed her clinical experience at Whitaker Elementary in Orangeburg, gaining real-world experience that shaped her classroom vision.

I've learned what to do and what not to do, she said. I've learned what I want to implement into my classroom, and I've learned different instructional strategies to help motivate students.

Along with Davis, the newly inducted educators and their disciplines are:

Althea Banjamin and Zaria Health, early childhood education.

Chantel Alexander, Marvenna Hughes and Shakiera Roberts, elementary education.

Lorena Suber, mathematics education.

Taliyah Taylor, English education.

Dr. George Johnson, chair of SC States Department of Education, commended the graduates for their determination.

Today is a celebration of your hard work, your dedication and your resilience, Johnson said. You have stayed the course. You've met the challenge and proven that you have what it takes to step into one of the most important professions in our society.

Johnson also reminded them that the ceremony was not a conclusion.

This is just the beginning, he said. You are stepping into classrooms not simply to teach, but to transform, to shape minds, nurture potential and uplift communities.

Keynote speaker Eric Brown, principal at Orangeburg Countys Marshall Elementary School, shared reflections on education, family, and the responsibility of teaching.

You will change the future of every student that you encounter, Brown said. You have all the tools inside of you, and now it's time to birth your destiny.

Taylor found her calling while at SC State. Originally from Baltimore, she grew to love English education thanks to supportive faculty in both the English and education departments.

English has always been a passion of mine, Taylor said. Once I got to South Carolina State, I realized that this was the profession for me.



Dean M. Evelyn Fields presents Taliyah Taylor with her induction certificate. Taylor plans to begin her full-time teaching position in Harford County, Maryland.

For Davis, SC State was more than an academic home.

I feel like I have a family away from home, she said. I just feel loved.

Now, shes ready to bring that same sense of belonging into her own classroom.

SC States teacher education programs are offered through the College of Education, Humanities and Social Sciences. Dr. M. Evelyn Fields, the colleges dean, administered the Educators Oath to the seniors. Dr. Janice B. Owens, professor and director of the clinical experience program, presided at the induction.

Benjamin, Davis, Heath, Alexander, Roberts and Suler are MATTE-Bridge Scholars. The program recruits and offers scholarships to high school students from rural school districts to attend SC State to pursue and complete baccalaureate degrees in teacher education.

The eight new teachers will cross the stage at the universitys Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 9, beginning at 10 a.m. in Oliver C. Dawson Stadium.

For more information about SC States teacher education programs and other fields of study, visit www.scsu.edu/academics.
Trump says US will halt bombing of Yemen in surprise announcement

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 May 2025 6:40 PM

President Donald Trump says the US will halt its bombing campaign in Yemen, claiming that the Yemenis have told his administration that they no longer want to "fight."

Trump, speaking to reporters at the White House alongside Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, said they have not reached any deal with Yemen.

The Yemenis, Trump added, have told Washington they would halt attacks on Israeli-linked ships in the Red Sea in return for a halt to US attacks.

"They just don't want to fight. And we will honor that, and we will, we will stop the bombings, and they have capitulated, but more importantly, we will take their word, they say they will not be blowing up ships anymore," he said, calling the development "very positive."

The US president also said he will have a "very big announcement" before his upcoming West Asia visit, which will take him to Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

The Yemenis have yet to comment on the Trump announcement.

The US has been striking Yemen on a near-daily basis for the past months, killing hundreds of people in the Arab country.

The Yemenis have launched counterattacks on American warships in the Red Sea and other seas in the region.

Those attacks led to the downing of an American F-18 jet late last month.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Sudan cuts diplomatic ties with 'state of aggression' UAE

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 May 2025 5:48 PM

Sudan has officially severed diplomatic relations with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), accusing the Persian Gulf Arab state of backing the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group fighting the Sudanese army.

The announcement came after three days of drone strikes on Port Sudan, a city previously considered one of the safest in the war-torn country.

Sudanese Defense Minister Yassin Ibrahim accused the UAE of violating Sudan's sovereignty through its "proxy," the RSF, and declared the country a "state of aggression."

Sudan will also withdraw its ambassador from the UAE and shut down its diplomatic missions in the country. The Security and Defense Council, chaired by army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, made the decision following an emergency meeting.

The RSF has been blamed for aerial bombardments targeting key infrastructure in Port Sudan, including an international airport, a major power station, oil facilities, and a hotel.

The Sudanese army claims these attacks were made possible by advanced strategic weapons allegedly supplied by the UAE.

The UAE has repeatedly denied accusations of supporting the RSF, but Sudan insists that the country has been arming the paramilitary group for over two years.

On Monday, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) dismissed Sudan's case against the UAE, in which it accused Abu Dhabi of complicity in genocide.

The court ruled that the UAE could not be sued under the Genocide Convention, as it had opted out of Article 9, preventing legal action from other states.

Sudan has vowed to "respond to the aggression by all means" to protect its sovereignty and civilians.

The RSF's use of strategic drones has intensified in recent months, targeting civilian and military sites across Sudan.

The attacks have drawn condemnation from Iran, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Jordan, Djibouti, the African Union, and the United Nations.

Thousands of people have been killed and millions have been forced from their homes during two years of conflict in Sudan.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Trump's remarks on Gaza aid meant to justify Israeli policy of starvation: Hamas

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 May 2025 5:21 PM

Hamas has rejected the accusation by US President Donald Trump that the Palestinian resistance group makes it impossible for aid to reach Palestinians in Gaza, saying the remarks are meant to justify Israel's policy of starvation in the besieged territory.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Hamas said the remarks by Trump were "nothing more than a surprising parroting of the lies propagated by Netanyahu's terrorist regime, which seeks to justify the systematic starvation it is inflicting upon innocent civilians."

President Trump said on Monday that the US would help provide some food to the people of Gaza, where famine is currently being observed. He accused Hamas of taking all the aid that is brought into the besieged territory.

"We're gonna help the people of Gaza get some food. People are starving, and we're gonna help them get some food," Trump said.

Hamas said the remarks by the US president contradict testimonies from humanitarian organizations operating in Gaza.

"These accusations blatantly contradict United Nations reports, testimonies from humanitarian organizations operating in the Strip, and all on-the-ground evidence, while aligning perfectly with the occupation's policy of using starvation as a weapon, in clear violation of international law and humanitarian norms."

The Palestinian movement also urged the Trump administration "to correct its position, cease providing cover for the genocide and starvation policies pursued by the occupation in the Gaza Strip."

Hamas said it was not enough for Trump to ask Netanyahu to "send some food."

It also called on the US to pressure Israel to "halt its aggression and open the crossings to allow the entry of all essential life-saving supplies."

"What is required is a responsible stance that respects international humanitarian law, demands the immediate opening of crossings, ensures the uninterrupted flow of aid and relief, and puts an end to the use of food as a tool of blackmail and pressure in this war."

Separately, Hamas said Israel's plans to expand the operation in Gaza meant sacrificing Israeli captives and repeating past failures.

Hamas said the plan showed that the Israeli prime minister was determined to commit further war crimes against civilians in Gaza.

The Palestinian group urged the international community to intensify popular pressure to end the war against Gaza.

In March, after two months of ceasefire, Israel resumed its brutal military offensive in Gaza.

Furthermore, the regime imposed a blockade on all aid supplies, refusing to allow even a single truck carrying humanitarian or commercial goods to enter.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Israeli warplanes bomb Yemen's Sana'a airport, power plants

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 May 2025 3:42 PM

The Israeli regime has bombed the international airport of the Yemeni capital, Sana'a, as well as several major power stations, in a continued escalation of its aggression against the Arab country.

Israeli media reported that the occupation forces targeted the passenger terminal, civilian aircraft, and service facilities at Sana'a International Airport.

Airstrikes also hit Dhahban and Haziz electricity stations, as well as oil installations, fuel centers, and the Amran Cement Factory in northern Yemen. Al-Dailami Air Base, located in northern Yemen, was also among the sites struck.

According to Yemeni media, most of the locations targeted in this wave of attacks had already been bombed multiple times before.

Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a member of Ansarullah's Political Bureau, told reporters following the strikes that the Yemeni army will respond firmly to the aggression.

"We will respond to escalation with escalation. There are many enemy sites we have not yet targeted," he said.

The renewed air raids came just two days after the Yemeni army launched a strike on the main airport in the Israeli-occupied territories as part of its broader efforts to halt the ongoing genocide in Gaza.

On Monday night, dozens of Israeli warplanes also bombed the port city of Hudaydah.

Since March, the United States, along with Britain and Israel, has carried out multiple airstrikes on Yemen, claiming to have hit more than 1,000 targets.

The campaign aims to halt Yemeni military operations against Israeli and Israeli-linked vessels in the Red Sea as well as attacks targeting military sites deep within the occupied Palestinian territories.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Hamas says will not engage in truce talks unless Israel halts 'hunger war' on Gaza

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 May 2025 2:01 PM

Hamas says it will not engage in new ceasefire talks with Israel, as long as the regime continues its "hunger war" against Palestinians in Gaza.

Basem Naim, a Hamas political bureau member and former Gaza health minister, told AFP there is "no sense in engaging in talks or considering new ceasefire proposals as long as the hunger war and extermination war continue in the Gaza Strip."

Naim urged the international community to pressure the Israeli regime to end the "crimes of hunger, thirst, and killings."

His remarks came hours after Israel threatened that it would launch an intensified offensive on Gaza, which, according to Tel Aviv, would entail "the conquest of the Gaza Strip and the holding of the territories."

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday that the new campaign will involve Israeli forces holding on to the seized populated territory and significant displacement of the population.

Nearly all of Gaza's population of 2.3 million has been displaced, often multiple times, since the regime launched its genocidal war on the territory in October 2023.

The humanitarian situation in the besieged territory has grown increasingly dire since Israel blocked the entry of medical, fuel, and food supplies into Gaza in mid-March when it broke a two-month ceasefire agreement.

Ever since, aid organizations have repeatedly warned that the humanitarian response in Gaza was on the verge of "total collapse."

The Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) warned this week that food supplies have now "completely run out" in both local markets and humanitarian distribution centers in Gaza.

"The population is once again at extreme risk of famine," the PRCS said. "There is an inability to meet even the minimum daily needs of over a million displaced people."

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) also reiterated the need for the immediate entry of humanitarian aid and warned Israel against "politicization" of the aid.

Indirect talksbrokered by Qatar and Egypt have continued since Israel broke the ceasefire, but yielded no results.

Qatar, a key mediator in Gaza truce talks, said Tuesday that it was still pursuing efforts for a Gaza ceasefire even though Hamas said it wasn't interested in further talks.

"Our efforts remain ongoing despite the difficulty of the situation and the continuing catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip," said foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari.

He said talks were focused on getting aid into Gaza and "the necessity to stop weaponizing aid, which Israel has been doing... since the first day of this war."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Palestinians 'legally entitled' to armed resistance against Israeli occupation: Hamas

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 May 2025 9:49 AM

A senior official of the Hamas resistance group says Palestinians are morally and legally entitled to use arms in their struggle to free their homeland from the decades-long Israeli occupation.

Osama Hamdan, Hamas's representative in Lebanon and a member of the group's politburo, made the remarks in an interview with the website Drop Site News published on Monday, amid reports that Israel is insisting on the disarmament of Hamas as a precondition for accepting a Gaza ceasefire.

He said talks about disarming the Palestinians, who are oppressed and occupied by the powerful Israeli army, will not solve the problem.

"Palestinians have both a moral obligation and a legal mandate under international law to employ armed resistance to fight an Israeli occupation that has been repeatedly ruled illegal in international courts and is condemned as a system of apartheid by the world's leading human rights organizations," he added.

"So there is no option for the Palestinians to get rid of this occupation without the resistance, no other option."

Hamdan also noted that Hamas will not capitulate to any demands from Israel or the US to lay down its arms.

The resistance group, he emphasized, will reject any temporary ceasefire deal that does not include a clear path to the complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and an end to the regime's genocide against Palestinians in the besieged territory.

The official further said that the Israelis are seeking to eliminate the Palestinian cause by raising the issues of the nation' forced displacement and Hamas disarmament.

"When they (the Israelis) talk about disarming the Palestiniansnot only Hamas, the Palestiniansit means that they want the Palestinians to surrender. And when you surrender, you have to accept the will of the occupier," he pointed out.

Israel launched its brutal Gaza onslaught on October 7, 2023. It has so far killed at least 52,567 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured more than 118,610 others.

The Tel Aviv regime accepted Hamas's longstanding negotiation terms under a Gaza ceasefire, which began on January 19.

On March 18, however, Israel unilaterally broke the truce, resumed its relentless bombing of Gaza, and redeployed troops to the Palestinian territory.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Gaza is facing 'extreme risk of famine': Red Crescent Society

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 May 2025 2:41 AM

The Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) says the nutritional situation in Gaza is now "even more dire than in the past 19 months."

The PRCS said on Monday that essential food supplies had "run out in both markets and distribution centers."

"The nutritional front, the population is facing once again at extreme risk of famine", the PRCS said in its latest situation update.

"There is an inability to meet even the minimum daily needs of over a million displaced people," it said.

The Red Crescent's food stocks allocated for displaced people are now "completely depleted."

"Limited quantities of legumes" are being "distributed to community kitchens to cover some of the basic needs of displaced individuals," the PRCS said.

Israel launched a genocidal war on the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023, which has so far killed at least 52,535 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured more than 118,491 others.

The Tel Aviv regime accepted longstanding negotiation terms by the Hamas resistance group under a Gaza ceasefire, which began on January 19.

However, Israel unilaterally abandoned the truce on March 2, cutting off humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip. It also resumed its deadly bombing campaign and redeployed troops to the blockaded territory.

The Israeli regime's prime minister said on Monday that he was going to launch a new military offensive in the besieged Gaza Strip.

In a Hebrew-language video message on X, Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the Security Cabinet-approved plan to expand the Gaza offensive.

He said that Gaza's Palestinian population "will be moved, for its own protection."

Netanyahu also said Israeli soldiers would not go into Gaza, launch raids and then retreat. "The intention is the opposite of that," he said.

Netanyahu's remarks come after his cabinet approved plans to expand the Gaza offensive and take over aid deliveries to the starving strip.

The Netanyahu cabinet unanimously approved plans to call up reservists and put the Israeli military in charge of food and other vital supplies to the 2.3 million people suffering under its blockade of the Palestinian territory.

The expanded offensive "could go as far as seizing the entire enclave", the Reuters news agency reported.

"The plan will include, among other things, the conquest of the Gaza Strip and the holding of the territories, moving the Gaza population south for their protection," a source told the AFP news agency.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Pakistan Says 8 Civilians Killed In Military Operation Launched By India

By Daud Khattak May 06, 2025

Pakistan said eight people were killed early on May 7 in missile strikes launched by Indian armed forces, and the country's prime minister vowed to respond, saying Pakistan has every right to give robust response to what he called an act of war.

The director-general of Pakistan's Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmad Sharif, told a news conference there had been "24 impacts from India on six places" and these resulted in the killing of eights citizen and the wounding of 35. Another eight are missing.

"Pakistan will return a response to the attack," he said before ending the news conference without taking questions.

He did not mention a report that the country's air force shot down Indian jets in retaliation. Pakistani Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said on X that three Indian jets and one Indian drone had been shot down by Pakistan.

Speaking earlier to Urdu language TV channels, Pakistani Defense Minister Khwaja Asif said only civilian targets were hit in the missile attack.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif scheduled an emergency meeting of the National Security Committee for 10 a.m. (local time) on May 7.

The chief minister of Punjab Province, Maryam Nawaz, declared a state of emergency in the province, which borders India. All schools, colleges, and universities will be closed. Police and other security agencies have been placed on high alert, and doctors on leave have been asked to report for duty.

Pakistan has suspended all flights and operations at the Lahore and Islamabad airports for the next 48 hours, and the Lahore airport has been vacated.

An Indian military statement referred to the action as Operation Sindoor and said nine sites were hit.

"A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'OPERATION SINDOOR', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," the statement said.

"Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistan military facilities have been targeted," the statement said, adding that "India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution."

Multiple loud explosions were heard in the mountains around the city of Muzaffarabad, capital of Pakistani Kashmir, as well as in other places in the region, according to Reuters and a Pakistani TV channel. One missile fired at the Muridke area near Lahore.

After the explosions, Muzaffarabad lost electrical power causing a blackout throughout the city, Reuters reported quoting witnesses.

The ISPR said India fired missiles at two other locations in addition to Muzaffarabad -- Kotli in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Bahawalpur in Punjab Province. The Bahawalpur and Muridke areas are considered centers for the banned groups Jaish-e Muhammad and Lashkar-e Jhangvi.

The attack represents a major escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbors and sounded alarm bells in Washington, where US President Donald Trump said he had been informed about the attack and hopes the fighting "ends very quickly" and in New York, where UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern about the attack and called for maximum restraint from both countries.

"The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan," Guterres said, according to his spokesman.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio contacted Pakistani National Security Adviser Lieutenant General Asim Malik, who is also chief of Pakistan's prime intelligence agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), to discussed the situation.

The development comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries in the aftermath of an attack on Hindu tourists in Indian Kashmir last month.

India blamed Pakistan for the violence in which 26 men were killed and vowed to respond. Pakistan denied that it had anything to do with the killings and said that it had intelligence that India was planning to attack.

Hassan Abbas, distinguished professor of international relations at Near East South Asia Center for Strategic Studies, told RFE/RL that while terrorism must always be condemned, Pakistan's hasty framing of the incident as a false-flag operation by India -- without investigation -- is irresponsible. Equally, India's rush to blame Pakistan without credible evidence only deepens mistrust and raises the risk of escalation, Abbas said.

"We need a different kind of courage now -- the courage to imagine cooperation...not confrontation. In a region facing the twin crises of poverty and climate vulnerability, war is a luxury no one can afford," Abbas said.

Hussain Haqqani, former Pakistani ambassador to the United States and senior fellow at the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy and Hudson Foundation, told RFE/RL that domestic politics on both sides requires the leadership of the two countries to take nationalistic stance.

The only sane approach in this situation for India is to demonstrate a strike and for Pakistan to respond in a way that the situation should not flare up, Haqqani said.

"But if one side strikes, then another responds, and then the other strike again and it continues, then it could go out of control," he added.

Although the people of the two countries are cheering at the moment, it would be the people who would be hurt the most, because economies of the two countries will suffer, he said.

Tauseef Ahmad Khan, an author and former head of the Mass Communication Department at Federal Urdu University in Karachi, said that India-Pakistan tensions ignite artificial patriotism.

"The 1.5 billion people of the region -- many living in poverty -- are the real victims of this conflict," Khan said.

Khan also claimed that Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party aims to reshape secular India into a Hindu state, while Pakistani media has long been used by the "deep state" to propagate anti-democratic narratives.

Indian media is under the influence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Hindutva" ideology, while Pakistani media is tightly controlled by what he called the deep state, Khan told RFE/RL.

"There's no room left for sanity," he said.

With reporting by Reuters and AP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/33406535.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.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Spain condemns attacks against civilian infrastructure in Port Sudan

Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

PRESS STATEMENT 044

Tuesday, May 6, 2025

Spain condemns the attacks perpetrated against civilian infrastructure in Port Sudan, which constitute a violation of international law and a threat to peace efforts.

Spain reiterates its call for an immediate ceasefire, the protection of the civilian population and respect for international humanitarian law.

NON OFFICIAL TRANSLATION.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Minister for the Middle East statement on Gaza

Oral statement to Parliament

Minister for the Middle East Hamish Falconer made a statement to the House of Commons on Gaza.

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Hamish Falconer MP

6 May 2025

Delivered on: 6 May 2025

With your permission, Madam Deputy Speaker, I will make a statement on the Middle East.

Yesterday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the Israel Security Cabinet has approved a plan to expand and intensify Israel's military operations in Gaza.

He said that the Israeli Defence Force operations will extend across more of Gaza. Tactics will no longer involve short raids - with the implication that Israel will hold the ground it takes. Reports suggest that the plans could include full military occupation of the entire Gaza Strip. Prime Minister Netanyahu said that Gaza's population will be moved 'for its protection'. Tens of thousands of reservists are being called up. In parallel, the Security Cabinet reportedly approved a plan to deliver aid through private companies.

This comes at a time, Madam Deputy Speaker, when the scale of civilian suffering and humanitarian need is already intolerable. More than 52,000 people have now been killed in Gaza. Israel has fully blocked the entry of humanitarian aid for over two months. The World Food Programme says their food stockpile has been exhausted.

These announcements from the Israeli government have rightly sparked grave concern that this conflict, which has already wrought so much bloodshed and suffering, may enter a dangerous new phase.

I know that concern will be felt right across the House.

Let me make the Government's position crystal clear.

We strongly oppose the expansion of Israel's operations.

Any attempt to annex land in Gaza would be unacceptable.

Palestinian territory must not be reduced nor subjected to any demographic change.

We want this war to end.

We want an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, the urgent provision of humanitarian aid and a pathway to a political solution.

Madam Deputy Speaker,

All of us recognise that Hamas continues to hold hostages in the cruellest fashion.

Their actions show the complete disregard for the interests of the Palestinian people.

Hamas must not divert aid for their own financial gain or use civilian infrastructure for military purposes.

We repeat our demand for the immediate release of the hostages.

But an expansion of this conflict is not the route to achieve their safe return.

That is why it is strongly opposed by so many hostage families themselves.

It is negotiations which offer the best hope of ending the agony of those waiting for loved ones held captive, alleviating the suffering of civilians, and ending Hamas' control of Gaza.

It is evident that Hamas cannot be defeated through military means alone.

And an expansion of military operations will result in the deaths of more innocent civilians, and put the hostages at yet greater risk.

The fighting must stop.

The Government has said since day one in office that the only way to ensure a path towards long-term peace and stability is an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, better protection of civilians, and significantly more aid entering Gaza.

Diplomacy is how we ensure security for Israelis and Palestinians - not more bloodshed.

All the people of this region deserve to live in peace, prosperity and security.

We urge all parties to return urgently to talks, implement the ceasefire agreement in full and work towards a permanent peace.

We continue to use our full diplomatic weight to bring about a ceasefire and end the suffering.

After more than two months of aid into Gaza being blocked, Palestinians continue to face immense suffering.

Essential supplies of food and medicine are either no longer available or quickly running out.

As the UN has said, it is hard to see how, if implemented, the new Israeli plan to deliver aid through private companies would be consistent with humanitarian principles and meet the scale of the need. We need urgent clarity from the Israeli government on their intentions.

We must remember what is at stake. These humanitarian principles matter for every conflict around the world. They should be applied consistently in every warzone.

As we have said repeatedly, humanitarian aid must never be used as a political tool and Israel is bound under international law to allow the unhindered passage of humanitarian aid.

I repeat my call for Israel to engage with partners to allow for a rapid and unhindered resurgence in the flow of aid into Gaza.

We reiterate our outrage at recent strikes by Israeli forces on humanitarian workers, on infrastructure, and healthcare facilities. Israel must do far more to protect the civilian population and humanitarian workers, and hold to account those who are responsible.

Over a year since the appalling attack on the World Central Kitchen in which three British nationals were tragically killed, we continue to press for a conclusion to the Israeli investigation and a decision as to whether criminal proceedings will be brought.

The UN and humanitarian partners must be able to carry out their work in safety, in accordance with their principles.

Madam Deputy Speaker,

Last week we welcomed Prime Minister Mustafa of the Palestinian Authority to the United Kingdom. We signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding and confirmed a 101m package of support for the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

We will continue to support the Palestinian Authority as the only legitimate governing entity in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including in Gaza.

During the visit we reaffirmed the UK's commitment to recognising a Palestinian state as a contribution to a two-state solution.

It is only a political horizon towards a two-state solution that can ensure the long-term peace and security of both Palestinians and Israelis.

I commend this statement to the House.



NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






It is the responsibility of this Council to uphold the Dayton Peace Agreement and support Bosnia and Herzegovina: UK Statement at the UN Security Council

Statement by DCMG Karen Pierce, UK Special Envoy to the Western Balkans, at the UN Security Council debate on Bosnia and Herzegovina.

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Karen Pierce DCMG

6 May 2025

Location: United Nations, New York

Delivered on: 6 May 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)



Thank you very much Mr President. I welcome the High Representative and thank him for his briefing. I'd also like to welcome the Bosnia and Herzegovina representatives in the Chamber today.

It is an honour to be back, Mr President, in the Security Council and see some familiar colleagues.

I am here today in my new capacity as the United Kingdom's Special Envoy for the Western Balkans.

I am also here to show our support for the state of Bosnia and Herzegovina, for her institutions and for the High Representative, and my Foreign Secretary is, today, visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Mr President, as other people have said, it is an important year for anniversaries.

The 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War and the founding of the United Nations.

The 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act which then joins us to take heed about non-interference across borders.

And above all, for these purposes, the 30th anniversary not only of Srebrenica, but also of the Dayton Peace Agreement itself.

But in fact, Mr President, Bosnia has been on the agenda of this Council since the early 1990s and, at times, it has been the most serious issue that the Council has had to deal with.

Dayton, Mr President, is one of the successes of this Council.

And because of that, the Council enshrined the Dayton Peace Agreement in a Chapter 7 Security Council Resolution 1031. This represented hard work by UNSC members over many, many years.

It is unusual, as the High Representative and other speakers have said, it enshrined some very unusual civilian interventionist elements, but it stopped a war, and it is worth recalling, Mr President, that at the time, that war was the worst Europe had seen since the end of the Second World War.

It isn't colonialism for the Council to take an interest, it isn't colonialism for us to help Bosnia and Herzegovina along her path. As the High Representative said, the state of Bosnia and Herzegovina can evolve democratically.

This itself is written down in Dayton and with the successive conferences on peace that we've had held by the Peace Implementation Council, held by the Steering Board, the outcome of those conferences has been endorsed variously over the years by this Council.

It is all our fervent hope, Mr President, that one day Bosnia and Herzegovina will be able to graduate from the Council's attentions and take its place as a normal and full member of Europe.

The Dayton Peace Agreement mandates one state, two entities and three constituent peoples.

The High Representative is also mandated by Dayton as the final authority on the civilian implementation of the Peace Agreement.

The powers that he is using have been backed by the Security Council. It is not a one-off; they have been successively backed by the Security Council.

And I want to stress that, Mr President. I also want to stress that the High Representative himself, under Dayton, is chosen by the Peace Implementation Council Steering Board.

He is not chosen by the Security Council, though the Security Council's interest has been evoked from time to time, but not universally, and I want to set that straight.

It is open to people who have left the Steering Board and, hence not had an opportunity to share in the selection of the High Representative, to return to the Steering Board.

Mr President, the cause of Bosnia and Herzegovina remains critical to the issue of stability and security in Europe.

The United Kingdom has great pleasure in cooperating with the European Union, with the US and others. This autumn, we will chair the Berlin Process, which emphasises regional cooperation among the Western Balkans countries themselves.

And I want to take a moment to salute EUFOR, who is executing its Chapter 7 mandate to maintain a secure and safe environment.

I agree that it does not have executive authority but to pretend it does is a mischaracterisation of its role.

EUFOR is there to support the state institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina and maintain safety and security for Bosnia and Herzegovina's citizens.

And it is clear, Mr President, and we've heard today, that those citizens want better relations with the European Union, they want Euro-Atlantic integration.

We heard, particularly from the representatives of Pakistan and Sierra Leone, of their very strong support for the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and I think all speakers in the Council want to uphold that.

But it bears repeating that there is one threat to that today, and it lies in the person of the RS Entity President, Milorad Dodik.

His secessionist moves, his introduction of unconstitutional laws, the threats to adopt a new anti-Dayton constitution represent direct threats to that sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence as well as to the aspirations of the Bosnian people.

What Bosnia and Herzegovina needs, Mr President, is more pluralist politics.

There is no threat to Republika Srpska entity, nor to the federation entity in EU integration, nor Euro-Atlantic future.

I repeat this again, it is not a threat to RS citizens, it is not a threat to the Federation. There are many models in Europe of national and sub-national government.

And I would point out that the High Rep would not need to use his powers if the RS President did not challenge Dayton on an almost daily basis.

The High Rep acts against all who challenge the state institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina, it happens that at the moment, the biggest challenges are coming from Republika Srpska, but the High Representative's role is to uphold the Dayton Peace Agreement and help the state institutions to prosper and to do their work.

Mr President, in closing, I want to refer again to what other speakers have said.

It is the responsibility of this Council, as it was in the 1990s, and it was when the Dayton Peace Agreement was concluded, to uphold the Dayton Peace Agreement, to support Bosnia and Herzegovina on its journey, its journey freely chosen by her citizens for European integration and to help her citizens thrive and prosper.







NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






UNHCR and partners urgently seek funding as Congolese refugee numbers soar

UNHCR - United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees

6 May 2025

GENEVA -- As the humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) continues to worsen, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and 107 partners are appealing for $781 million to continue providing urgent and life-saving support in 2025 to more than 1 million Congolese refugees and asylum-seekers in neighbouring countries and over 1 million people in local communities across seven countries.

The updated Regional Refugee Response Plan (RRP) for the DRC situation highlights the alarming deterioration of conditions in eastern DRC, where the surge in armed violence has continued to displace communities at an unprecedented rate since January this year. Shrinking resources and recent funding cuts are severely disrupting the delivery of critical aid.

Neighbouring countries, who are generously receiving thousands of refugees daily, are struggling to keep up with the pace and scale of new arrivals. Since January, nearly 150,000 people have fled the DRC, surpassing the total number who fled during the whole of 2024. The majority, approximately 95 per cent, have fled eastern DRC and sought refuge in Burundi and Uganda while 8,000 have arrived in the Republic of the Congo fleeing intercommunal violence in western DRC.

Displacement inside the DRC has also reached unprecedented levels. By the end of 2024, an estimated 7.8 million people were internally displaced - the highest figure on record.

The human toll of the crisis is devastating - entire communities displaced, families torn apart, and civilians exposed to extreme human rights violations, including sexual abuse, arbitrary killings and forced recruitment. Women, children and people with disabilities are especially vulnerable, with many arriving across borders traumatized and in urgent need of protection and care.

"Once again, it is families, and particularly women and children, who are forced to run for their lives when violence prevails. Host communities continue to show remarkable generosity by welcoming them, but they cannot respond alone," said Chansa Kapaya, UNHCR Regional Director for Southern Africa and the Regional Coordinator for the DRC refugee situation. "The international community must urgently step up and support the efforts of host governments and all humanitarian organizations to provide critical protection and assistance."

Despite the commendable efforts of neighbouring countries to receive and assist new arrivals, transit and reception facilities are overcrowded, under-resourced and struggling to keep pace with the growing needs for safe shelter, water and sanitation, medical care and other essential services.

The DRC RRP appeal covers Angola, Burundi, the Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania, and Zambia. The plan outlines immediate priorities, including emergency shelter, food, health care, and protection services, while also promoting social inclusion, resilience and lasting solutions for the displaced.

Despite mounting needs, funding for the DRC remains critically low. In 2024, UNHCR and partners received less than half of required funds, forcing humanitarian actors to make difficult trade-offs, including reducing food rations, scaling back essential services, and limiting support for extremely vulnerable groups.

The RRP complements the humanitarian response plan for the DRC itself, released in February 2025. Together they represent a coordinated effort to address both the immediate and long-term needs of one of the world's most urgent yet overlooked crises.

"Without increased funding, frontline partners will face impossible choices, such as shutting down health services, cutting food assistance, or leaving survivors of sexual violence without support," warned Kapaya. "When refugees are unable to access the support and protection they need in countries where they seek safety, they are often compelled to continue their perilous journey in search of dignity and hope elsewhere."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






UNHCR warns of soaring needs amid Sudanese influx to Chad from Darfur

UNHCR - United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees

This is a summary of what was said by Magatte Guisse, UNHCR Representative in Chad - to whom quoted text may be attributed - at today's press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

6 May 2025

GENEVA -- UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is gravely concerned by the rapidly increasing number of Sudanese refugees crossing into eastern Chad, with nearly 20,000 people - mostly exhausted and traumatized women and children - arriving in the past two weeks alone.

The sharpest rise has been recorded at the Tine border crossing in Wadi Fira Province, where almost 6,000 people arrived in just two days. Since 21 April, over 14,000 individuals have been counted in Wadi Fira, including 12,000 in the last week, but also 5,300 people in Ennedi Est over the past fortnight, including 1,000 on Sunday alone. This sudden influx reflects the escalating violence in Sudan's North Darfur region, particularly in and around El Fasher, which is triggering mass displacement at an alarming pace.

The latest movements follow brutal attacks by armed groups in North Darfur, where assaults on displacement camps - including Zamzam and Abu Shouk - and El Fasher town have caused widespread terror. Refugees arriving in Chad report that over 10,000 people are still en route, desperately trying to reach the border to escape the violence.

Many of the newly arrived refugees report experiencing grave violence and human rights violations that forced them to flee. They describe men being killed, women and girls subjected to sexual violence, and homes burned to the ground. Their journeys to safety were perilous, with refugees facing robbery and extortion at checkpoints and repeated threats along the way.

Most arrived in Chad with nothing - no food, money, or identification. Several wounded individuals, including children and elderly women, reportedly fell from vehicles during the chaotic escape. A rapid protection assessment by UNHCR and its partners indicates that 76 per cent of the newly arrived refugees were subjected to serious protection incidents, including extortion, theft and sexual violence.

At the same time, protection teams at the border have identified increasing numbers of people with specific needs - including 752 at-risk children, 22 of whom were injured in the conflict, as well as unaccompanied children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and elderly survivors.

Despite extraordinary efforts by local communities and authorities, the capacity to absorb the new arrivals is severely overstretched. Chad already hosts 1.3 million refugees, including 794,000 arrivals from Sudan since the conflict started more than two years ago. While the country continues to show remarkable solidarity in hosting refugees, it cannot bear this burden alone. Humanitarian resources across the country remain extremely limited, while needs continue to grow for water, shelter, health, education and protection.

Since 23 April, eight convoys have relocated almost 1,850 newly arrived refugees to Iridimi, a site in Wadi Fira Province. UNHCR and partners are delivering life-saving assistance at border points and relocation sites, but current efforts remain far from sufficient given the scale of the crisis.

Attacks on civilians in Sudan must end, and safe passage needs to be allowed to those fleeing for their lives. UNHCR urges the international community to urgently step up support for the response. Of the $409 million required to respond to the refugee crisis in Chad in 2025, only 20 per cent has been funded to date. We urgently call for increased solidarity and immediate funding to ensure these vulnerable populations receive the protection and assistance they need, now.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






UN Secretary-General urges military restraint from India, Pakistan

6 May 2025 - The UN chief has expressed deep concern over Indian military operations across the Line of Control and the international border with Pakistan.

In a note to correspondents issued by his spokesperson on Tuesday, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for military restraint from both countries.

"The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan," the note said.

On Monday, the Secretary-General had warned that the tensions between the two South Asian neighbours had reached "their highest in years."

He offered his good offices to both governments to help defuse tensions and promote diplomacy, stressing that "a military solution is no solution."



NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Exhausted Sudanese flee into Chad as fighting escalates

6 May 2025 - Thousands of exhausted Sudanese refugees continue to flee fighting in search of safety in neighbouring Chad, aid teams said on Tuesday, as a third day of drone strikes ripped into the city of Port Sudan.

Nearly 20,000 people - mainly traumatized women and children - have reached Chad in the past two weeks, according to the UN refugee agency, UNHCR.

"Most arrived in Chad with nothing - no food, money or identification," said Magatte Guisse, UNHCR Representative in Chad. "Several wounded individuals, including children and elderly women, reportedly fell from vehicles during the chaotic escape."

Chad is one of the poorest countries in the world and already hosts 1.3 million refugees.

This includes nearly 800,000 people from Sudan since war broke out between the Sudanese Armed Forces and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces in April 2023, after a breakdown in transition to civilian rule.

Heavy fighting in Sudan has devastated much of the country, likely killed tens of thousands and displaced almost nine million people, UN agencies say.

No food, no money

In Chad, the Tine border crossing in Wadi Fira Province has seen the sharpest spike in new arrivals, with more than 6,000 people in just two days,

Sudanese refugees are exposed to robbery and extortion at checkpoints - and many have also witnessed men being killed, women and girls sexually abused, and homes burned to the ground.

The refugee agency reported that armed groups have extorted, robbed or sexually assaulted around 76 per cent of the newly arrived refugees.

A nation of 19 million people where resources are already strained, Chad is overstretched and needs "increased solidarity and immediate funding, to ensure these vulnerable populations receive the protection and assistance they need, now".

Renewed attacks on Port Sudan

In a related development, a third day of drone strikes hit the international airport and a power station in Port Sudan, the UN's humanitarian hub for coordinating aid operations across Sudan.

The city is the current seat of government and until this weekend had been largely spared from the violence that is ongoing in Khartoum, Darfur and elsewhere. Thousands of people fleeing the war have also sought shelter in Port Sudan.

"Port Sudan airport is a lifeline for humanitarian operations, serving as the primary entry point for aid personnel, medical supplies and other lifesaving relief that is coming into Sudan," said Jens Laerke, spokesperson for the UN aid coordination office, OCHA. The airport is "immensely important", he told journalists in Geneva.

According to reports, the Red Sea city suffered a complete power outage after drone strikes hit a large power station on Tuesday. Other strikes reportedly hit an army base in the city centre, a fuel depot and a hotel close to the airport, which is located near the presidential palace.

These attacks have increased the "already severe" lack of aid access and delivery challenges facing humanitarian teams across the country, explained Mr. Laerke, adding that such violence is prohibited under international humanitarian law.

Compounding civilian suffering

In a statement released later in the day the UN's Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, Clementine Nkweta-Salami, said that the attacks "will deepen humanitarian suffering and needs, as well as exacerbate the already severe access and logistical challenges that humanitarian actors face in the delivery of urgently needed aid to the rest of the country."

It is widely believed that the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces are responsible for the attacks. No UN facilities or operations have been impacted but UN Humanitarian Air Service flights in and out of the city have been paused.





NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Hospital bombing deepens bleak situation for war-weary South Sudanese

6 May 2025 - Aid teams in South Sudan warned on Tuesday that repeated attacks on healthcare including the bombing of a hospital in eastern Jonglei state at the weekend are just the latest of the "multiple vulnerabilities" the country's people face.

"Every time this happens, people lose access to health services - and sometimes, to hope," said Dr Humphrey Karamagi, the UN World Health Organization (WHO)'s Representative in South Sudan. "Health is the last safety net. If it fails, everything else will also fall."

The apparent airstrike on the hospital run by Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) in Old Fangak in eastern Jonglei state, killed seven civilians and injured another 20, according to the UN humanitarian affairs coordination office (OCHA).

Healthcare not a target

The attack is the eighth time healthcare has been targeted since January "with health workers killed, facilities and essential supplies looted or destroyed", the WHO official told journalists in Geneva.

"More attacks may lead to closing half the health facilities along the Nile," he added.

Dr. Karamagi explained that humanitarian convoys and essential cold chain infrastructure had come under fire, at a time of escalating violence that has impacted civilians since South Sudan gained independence in 2011, descending shortly afterwards into civil war.

Since March, tensions have escalated in Upper Nile state, with deadly clashes between Government forces and armed groups. This has uprooted an estimated 80,000 people in three of the most affected counties, the WHO official said.

He added that clashes have also been reported in parts of Western Equatoria, Central Equatoria and Unity states, forcing communities - "mostly women and children" - to flee into neighbouring countries, including 23,000 arrivals in Ethiopia.

Diseases spreading

Back in South Sudan, outbreaks of cholera, malaria, measles and mpox are spreading rapidly, prompting the UN health agency to deploy rapid response teams and coordinate with local partners where possible, amid access restrictions linked to the escalating violence.

"The alternative, if we do nothing, would be bleak," the WHO official warned, pointing to cholera cases that may double in just six weeks and measles deaths that could increase by 40 per cent.

Cholera alone has infected more than 55,000 people since September, killing over 1,000, the UN health agency said.

'War crime' condemnation

In a related development, the UN Commission on Human Rights (OHCHR) in South Sudan condemned the bombing as a potential war crime.

"This was not a tragic accident," said Yasmin Sooka, Chair of the Commission. "It was a calculated, unlawful attack on a protected medical facility."

MSF confirmed the hospital's complete destruction, including its pharmacy and emergency care units. Further aerial bombardments were also reported in New Fangak, raising fears that such attacks are part of a broader military campaign.

The airstrike followed public threats by South Sudanese military forces who demanded the return of seized boats and labelled multiple Nuer-majority counties, including Fangak, as "hostile".

"Designating entire communities as hostile is deeply irresponsible and may amount to collective punishment," said Commissioner Barney Afako.

Plea for action

The UN Commission has urged immediate investigations into the bombing and warned that repeated violations threaten to derail South Sudan's fragile peace.

With high-level delegations from the African Union and IGAD now in the capital Juba, calls for renewed dialogue are growing louder. "The path South Sudan is currently on is perilous," Ms. Sooka warned. "If attacks like these continue with impunity, the Peace Agreement risks becoming meaningless."

In his final appeal, Dr Karamagi emphasised the cost of inaction: "Help us make sure this doesn't become the moment health - and hope - finally give way."







NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Port Sudan drone attacks: A call to protect civilian infrastructure - Statement by the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, Clementine Nkweta-Salami

UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

(Port Sudan, 6 May 2025) I am shocked and deeply concerned by intensifying drone attacks on civilian infrastructure in Port Sudan, the main humanitarian hub within Sudan. In the early morning hours of 6 May 2025, drone attacks reportedly targeted the Port Sudan International Airport and other infrastructure - including a fuel storage facility and a power transformer - in Port Sudan.

Such attacks will deepen humanitarian suffering and needs, as well as exacerbate the already severe access and logistical challenges that humanitarian actors face in the delivery of urgently needed aid to the rest of the country.

The Port Sudan International Airport is a lifeline for humanitarian operations, serving as the primary entry point for aid personnel, medical supplies, and other life-saving relief into Sudan. Moreover, the availability of fuel in Port Sudan is critical to the dispatch of humanitarian supplies to areas across Sudan in dire need of assistance. Damage to critical infrastructure could also disrupt supply chains and increase the price of basic goods, further exacerbating human suffering in what is already the world's largest humanitarian crisis.

These latest strikes follow a series of drone attacks over the past days on civilian infrastructure in Port Sudan and Kassala, cities that have largely represented safe locations for civilians who have been displaced multiple times throughout this devastating conflict. Recent attacks on the Kassala Airport in eastern Sudan has forced displaced individuals - who had sought refuge in a gathering site near the airport - to move once again.

Since January 2025, attacks on infrastructure such as power stations, water sub-stations, and oil refineries across the country have caused widespread electricity outages and disrupted access to essential rights and services, including safe drinking water for civilians, healthcare and food supplies.

These attacks are serious violations of international humanitarian law, which prohibits the targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure. They reflect a consistent failure to comply with the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution.

Every measure must be taken to spare civilians and civilian objects.

Once again, I call on all those involved in this conflict to cease hostilities.

***

6 May 2025

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Attacks Targeting Constitutional, Legal Order of Bosnia and Herzegovina Threat to Country's Peace, Stability, Senior Official Warns Security Council

Meetings Coverage

Security Council

9911th Meeting (AM)

SC/16057

6 May 2025

Tensions in Bosnia and Herzegovina have recently surged, marking what a senior UN official today described to the Security Council as "an extraordinary crisis"  the most serious since the Dayton Agreement ended the war in the country almost 30 years ago.

"The extraordinary crisis currently facing Bosnia and Herzegovina stems from severe attacks by the Republika Srpska ruling coalition on the Dayton peace agreement," Christian Schmidt, the Secretary-General's High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina, told the 15-member organ. These attacks target the constitutional and legal order of Bosnia and Herzegovina and threaten peace and stability both within the country and across the region.

This sudden deterioration was triggered by reactions to the first-instance verdict of the Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which convicted the President of the Republika Srpska entity, Milorad Dodik, he went on to say. In response, Mr. Dodik escalated his attacks on the constitutional order by directing Republika Srpska authorities to adopt legislation effectively banning State-level judiciary and law enforcement within the entity. He also introduced a draft entity constitution, hinting at de facto secession.

This draft constitution  a document of considerable complexity  was unveiled shortly after the verdict. The speed with which it, along with the draft laws, was published strongly suggests they had been prepared well in advance. "For one, these acts and this legislation fundamentally contradict the implementation of the Dayton peace agreement and its annexes," he said.

These actions endanger the territorial and societal integrity of the country by performing secessionist acts, Mr. Schmidt said. Furthermore, they create legal and executive uncertainty by establishing entity-level laws and institutions that contradict and compete with State-level authority.

As a result, the State-level coalition has been seriously affected, progress towards European Union accession has stalled, the functionality of the State is being undermined and critical reforms have been sidelined. "This development is not irreversible, but it is severe," he added.

"Daily life in Bosnia and Herzegovina is not getting easier," he continued, noting that, for the most part, communities there do not support extremism or secessionism. However, there is ample evidence in daily life that ethnocentric politics continues to divide communities rather than unite them. Discrimination remains a deeply rooted and complex issue affecting various groups.

The protection extended to all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina must be safeguarded and discrimination must be eliminated from the current constitutional framework. Moving forward requires acknowledging that Dayton and the European Union reform agenda are mutually reinforcing. "Everybody in Bosnia and Herzegovina must understand that no individual stands above the law," he added.

The General Framework Agreement for Peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina, endorsed by the UN Security Council 30 years ago, remains the cornerstone for Bosnia and Herzegovina's sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence, he said. Any attempt to reopen or redefine it risks undermining peace and prosperity in the country. Ultimately, the focus must be on strengthening institutional stability, improving State functionality and reinforcing election integrity ahead of the country's general elections in 2026.

Before the High Representative took the floor, the delegate of the Russian Federation objected to Mr. Schmidt's participation in the Council, stating that the organ had not endorsed him in this capacity. Therefore, in the absence of the required Security Council mandate, the position of Special Representative remains vacant, he asserted. He went on to accuse Mr. Schmidt of actively working to destabilize the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

In the ensuing discussion, many Member States expressed firm support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, categorically rejected the secessionist rhetoric, expressed alarm at the significant rise of tensions stemming from rhetoric and actions by Republika Srpska entity authorities and overwhelmingly expressed support to the Dayton Agreement.

France's delegate said that 30 years after the signing of the Peace Agreement, the unity of Bosnia and Herzegovina is threatened, its territorial integrity is under attack and "the constitutional order established in 1995 is facing unprecedented and unilateral challenges". Stressing that the European path for Bosnia and Herzegovina requires respect for the rule of law, public freedoms and civil society, he urged Republika Srpska leaders "not to embark on the path to separation". Slovenia's delegate said that the preservation of Bosnia and Herzegovina's democratic character is fundamental to its future, condemning all actions that undermine the country's political order and threaten its territorial integrity. "We must maintain a zero tolerance for such behaviour," he said.

"We've watched recent events in Bosnia and Herzegovina with concern," added the representative of the United States, urging political leaders to de-escalate and avoid actions that could lead to instability. The United States firmly opposes succession and destabilizing rhetoric, he said, expressing support for Bosnia and Herzegovina's territorial integrity, sovereignty and multiethnic character. He recognized the importance of the Office of the High Representative in supporting implementation of the civilian aspects of the Dayton Agreement.

"2025 marks 30 years since the signing of the Dayton peace agreement that ended the horrific war in Bosnia and Herzegovina," Denmark's delegate recalled, expressing hope that "this year's anniversary should be seized to reflect on past achievements and to look forward on how to accelerate progress". The representatives of Sierra Leone and Guyana also expressed support for the Dayton Agreement, with the former speaker warning that any actions that weaken implementation of the accord "put the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina at risk of instability".

"Dayton is one of the successes of this Council," added Karen Pierce, Special Envoy of the United Kingdom to the Western Balkans, noting that it stopped a war  the worst Europe had seen since the end of the Second World War. "One day, Bosnia and Herzegovina will be able to graduate from the Council's attentions and take its place as a normal and full member of Europe." The High Representative is mandated by the Dayton accord as the final authority on the civilian implementation of the Dayton Agreement, she noted, stressing that the powers he is using have been backed by the Council.

China's delegate said that "one major cause of the current tense situation is the High Representative's frequent invocation of the so-called 'Bonn Powers'". This has led to an "increasingly difficult political situation", and he pointed out that the Council has not endorsed the High Representative's appointment. Stressing that both the High Representative and the Bonn Powers granted to his Office are "special arrangements for special times", he said that the international community must respect the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina  as well as the "independent choice of its people for the future of the country".

The representative of the Russian Federation pointed to "dogged attempts to recast [Bosnia and Herzegovina] from a decentralized into a unitary State by reducing the broad powers and rights of the three constituent peoples and the two entities". The "self-styled, so-called High Representative", with the "outright connivance of his Western backers" continues to "unapologetically interfere" in that country's internal affairs. Further, the High Representative is "trying to cut off the oxygen" to political parties in the Republika Srpska, he said, adding: "We cannot but conclude that Mr. Schmidt has set himself the objective of strangling all that is Serbian in [Bosnia and Herzegovina]."

The international community should be celebrating the thirtieth anniversary of the end of the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina but is instead "witnessing increasing political deterioration", said Algeria's delegate. "The region's tragic history serves as a stark reminder that national, racial and religious hatred, discord and intolerance can trigger horrific violence," warned Pakistan's delegate, urging all political actors to exercise prudence, act responsibly and eschew the use of narrative that seeks to sow interethnic and interreligious discord.

Panama's delegate said that with recent events having "shed light on a dangerous resurgence of divisive narratives", it is "imperative to avoid greater fragmentation of the social fabric". "While the region's painful past remains vivid, it must not define its future," added the representative of the Republic of Korea, expressing support for Bosnia and Herzegovina's European Union integration process and for EUFOR-ALTHEA, a pillar of regional stability.

Other speakers also welcomed Bosnia and Herzegovina's path towards European integration, with the representative of Somalia emphasizing that the advancement of that goal "demonstrates the potential for positive transformation and offers a foundation for continued cooperation". Greece's delegate, Council President for May, spoke in his national capacity to recall the declaration agreed upon in Thessaloniki during the European Union-Western Balkans Summit held in that city in 2003. That agreement, he said, "laid the key principles of the European integration process, based on a shared European vision of fundamental values".

The head of the delegation of the European Union to the United Nations expressed concern about legislation in the Republika Srpska entity that runs counter to the European Union path of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Expressing its support to the mission of the High Representative and his Office towards fulfilling the 5+2 Agenda, he urged all political actors to renew Bosnia and Herzegovina's focus on progressing on the European Union path, taking resolute actions to implement the necessary reforms.

The representative of Croatia, while welcoming the High Representative's work, said that his latest report "would have benefitted from a more-balanced treatment of the conduct of all political actors". This is especially true for those actions aimed against the political status of Croats, he said  "the most underrepresented and vulnerable of the three constituent peoples". He added: "Electoral reform is not a peripheral issue  it is a cornerstone of a just and stable democracy and of any lasting national compromise."

The representative of Serbia said that, in the complex environment of Bosnia and Herzegovina, "neither ethnic outvoting nor external imposition of decisions can provide sustainable solutions". He also stated that "it is our understanding" that the Republika Srpska "does not advocate secession, but the preservation of the Dayton Agreement". However, he stressed that the High Representative's imposition of decisions is neither in line with his mandate under that accord nor universal democratic principles. "Equally inconsistent with these principles is the attempt to eliminate democratically elected representatives of Republika Srpska from the political life of Bosnia and Herzegovina by misusing the judicial authorities for political purposes," he added.

Zeljka Cvijanovic, Chairperson of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, also speaking in her capacity as the Serb member of the tripartite Presidency, recalled that "the Dayton Agreement was not a perfect solution", but "an act of courageous diplomacy that balanced three peoples and two entities in one State". Arguing that this balance is being undermined, she said that Mr. Schmidt was not confirmed by the Security Council as required by Annex 10 of the agreement. She noted that Mr. Schmidt unlawfully overstepped his mandate by, among others, imposing a Government in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, changing the electoral law, extending the mandate of the election commission without legal basis, criminalizing political dissent through amendments to the criminal code and cutting funding to elected parties in Republika Srpska.

She demanded a return to the legal foundations of the Dayton Agreement and asserted that Republika Srpska's actions are lawful responses to unlawful foreign interference  not separatism. She therefore appealed to the Council to hold a formal vote on the High Representative's confirmation. "If he cannot pass the vote, find a candidate who can," she demanded, urging the Council to also launch a legal review of the Bonn Powers  a set of extraordinary executive authorities given to the High Representative.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






C2WAC goes global: Largest class to date unites allied warfighters in UK hosted course

Published May 6, 2025

By Deb Henley

505th Command and Control Wing Public Affairs

RAF WADDINGTON, United Kingdom (AFNS) -- The Command and Control Warrior Advanced Course was held outside of the United States for the first time. The most recent iteration, which is customarily held at Hurlburt Field, Flaorida, was held at RAF Waddington in the United Kingdom and had nearly equal numbers of coalition and U.S. personnel  making it the largest C2WAC class to date.

"The significance of expanding C2WAC training outside the U.S. is a milestone in the course's history and another positive step toward strengthening our partnerships with our international allies," said U.S. Air Force Col. Ryan Hayde, 505th Command and Control Wing commander, Hurlburt Field, Florida. "Increasing interoperability with our partners through integrated training allows for these collaborations and the sharing of expertise and resources, ultimately increasing the combat effectiveness of allied air forces."

As the U.S. Air Force's premier operational-level C2 course, C2WAC is designed to advance the operational-level planning expertise of experienced air component, (Air Force Forces and Air Operations Center) planners, preparing them to lead operational planning teams and integrate joint and coalition capabilities across multiple warfighting domains.

RAF Air Commodore Blythe Crawford, Air and Space Warfare Center commandant, RAF Air Commodore Lee Turner, ASWC deputy commandant, and RAF Air Commodore Jamie Thompson, RAF Global Engagement commander, sponsored the 705th Training Squadron's mobile training team, a blended cadre of instructors, which included U.S. Air Force, U.S. Space Force, Royal Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force, and U.S. Department of Defense civilians and contractor support, to teach C2WAC at RAF Waddington.

The graduating course leader, RAF Wing Commander Mark Still, Air Battlespace Training Centre commander, said, "C2WAC offers an unparalleled opportunity for AUKUS, the Australia, United Kingdom and United States trilateral partnership, coalition partners to conduct operational planning together, enhancing our ability, through shared knowledge and experiences, to improve coalition integration from the start of operation conception. Bringing together personnel from the U.S. Air Force, RAF and RAAF in this environment in the U.K. is a key demonstration of our joint commitment to improve processes and better prepare our operational planning teams for success in this rapidly changing and evermore challenging operational environment."

"In just two years, C2WAC has evolved from a U.S.-only-based course to one that has graduated students from the U.K. and Australia and is transitioning to expand our closest allies' capacity to engage at the operational level of war with capabilities at all classification levels," said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Benjamin Lee, 705th TRS commander.

The course benefitted from the location by incorporating several RAF experts as guest speakers, most notably three RAF general officers; it enhanced advanced operational-level planning content with military education activities ranging from guided tours of the RAF Officer Academy and RAF College Cranwell, including a tour of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight as part of the graduation ceremony held at RAF Coningsby.

"Our objective was to ensure that the cost to Air Combat Command for the U.S. Air Force students didn't exceed the standard C2WAC operational costs at Hurlburt Field," said U.S. Space Force Maj. Joel Boxberger, 705th TRS C2WAC. "Due to the RAF covering the expenses of the C2WAC instructors' travel, several U.S. Air Forces Europe students who did not need to fly, and comparable Florida and U.K. student flight costs and per diem rates, we were able to keep the course cost neutral."

Eleven RAF, one RAAF, three U.S. Air Force Reserve, one Air National Guard, two U.S. Space Force and 11 U.S. Air Force warfighters learned how to integrate kinetic and non-kinetic capabilities available to the Combined/Joint Force Air Component Commander.

"The multinational aspect of this iteration of C2WAC was phenomenal; it was so beneficial to have almost a 50/50 split of U.S. and U.K./AUS students," said Tech. Sgt. Grace Kline, 611th AOC and C2WAC 25-3 graduate. "It was great to hear the perspectives of other countries and incorporate other methodologies into our processes. I liked how we were able to use Joint Planning Process for Air through two different scenarios. It helped to put it into a realistic perspective."

A distinguished graduate from the course, RAF Squadron Leader Alistair Benson, Headquarters Air Force checkmate exchange officer, said, "It was an absolute privilege to take part in C2WAC 25-3. The inclusion of nearly equal parts allied and U.S. personnel made for an incredibly effective learning environment, and the skill sets that were taught are vital to increasing the lethality of our militaries as we move into the future. I am looking forward to returning to my place of work with fresh perspectives, improved knowledge, and a network of colleagues whose knowledge I can leverage if required."

As modern warfare continues to evolve, the need for integrated coalition training increases to ensure that operational planners can effectively coordinate across air, land, sea, space and cyber domains.

RAF Wing Commander George Moreton, RAF Air and Space Warfare School commander and a RAF C2WAC 25-3 lead planner, said, "This course not only continues to provide all three nations with advanced warfighters, expert in operational-level planning, but by learning together, it strengthens the understanding and collaboration between the closest of allied partners. On behalf of the RAF, our thanks go to the instructors from the 705th Training Squadron for their outstanding delivery of C2WAC."

Moreton arranged for RAF Group Captain Andrew Burton, RAF ASWC deputy commandant, to present a token of appreciation to U.S. Air Force Col. Ryan Hayde. The painting of 617th Squadron's RAF Lancaster Bombers overhead Lincoln Cathedral, signed by the World War II crew, was gratefully received and will hang in the 505th CCW Headquarters.

C2WAC is taught at the integrated joint special technical operations level, targeting air component headquarters mid-level leaders; it culminates with the awarding of the A-prefix to officer Air Force Specialty Codes and the M-prefix to enlisted AFSCs and designates them as multi-domain warfare planners.

"Courses like the C2WAC are essential to ensuring the Australian Defence Force remains not only interoperable with our allies but truly integrated from the outset of any operation. Participating in C2WAC allows our planners to build relationships, technical fluency, and shared mindset required for modern multi-domain warfare," said Sean Bedford RAAF squadron leader, RAAF exchange officer to the 505th Command and Control Wing. "As the strategic environment grows more complex, joint education and training with trusted partners like the United States and United Kingdom strengthens our ability to act decisively and cohesively as part of a unified force."

"C2WAC 25-3 was special not only because we were able to deliver it outside of the United States, but because of the caliber of students. The RAF and RAAF clearly sent their best, and the U.S. Air Force stepped up as well...submitting 42 applicants for only 17 slots. As they return to their 18 headquarters as patch-wearing C2WAC graduates, I'm eager to see the impact that this class makes," Lee said.

The course uses the JPPA and the Joint Air Tasking Cycle framework to steep students in the planning, integration, and execution responsibilities of the air component across the competition continuum at the operational level.

"This course really solidified my understanding of the differences between Commander Air Force Forces and Combined Forces Air Component Commander responsibilities, as well as an understanding of how to get unique capabilities incorporated into an overall plan. Additionally, it really brought the planning process into sharp relief," said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Jason Williams, 13th Air Task Force operations director and C2WAC 25-3 graduate.

C2WAC 25-3 Graduates:

Royal Air Force:

Wing Commander Sophie Atkinson, 2 Group

Squadron Leader Alistair Benson, Headquarters U.S. Air Force

Squadron Leader Steven Bradley, 11 Group

Flight Lieutenant Jak Carradice, ASWC

Wing Commander Will Cornwell, ASWC

Squadron Leader John Cuffe, 2 Squadron

Flight Lieutenant Simon Day, 11 Group

Flight Lieutenant Daniel Langston, ASWC

Squadron Leader Howard Leach, Air Battlespace Training Centre

Wing Commander Mark Still, ASWC

Squadron Leader David Tipler, 90 Signals Unit

Royal Australian Air Force:

Squadron Leader Nathan Cranney, Air Warfare Center

U.S. Air Force Reserve Command

Maj. Garrett Cook, 701st Combat Operations Squadron

Lt. Col. Mark Kuhn, 701st COS

Lt. Col. Stephen Montgomery, 701st COS

Air National Guard

Lt. Col. Shannon Vinson, 201st Air Mobility Operations Squadron

U.S. Space Force

Maj. Oliver Baumgardner, 527th Space Aggressor Squadron

Capt. Tyler Riechmann, Space Delta 5

U.S. Air Force

Maj. Lionel Alford, 603rd AOC

Maj. Adam Corey, 9th Reconnaissance Wing

Capt. Alexander Desa, 607th AOC

Capt. Owen Joyce, 13th Air Task Force

Tech. Sgt. Grace Kline, 611th AOC

Capt. Jesse Ott, 1st Special Operations Theater Air Operations Squadron

Maj. Chris Perry, Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph

Maj. Amanda Schultz, 31st Communications Squadron

Maj. Tyler Troesch, 607th AOC

Lt. Col. Jason Williams, 13th ATF

Senior Master Sgt. Justin Yow, Air Mobility Command

For more information about the 705th Training Squadron's mission, contact the 505 CCW Public Affairs Office at 850-884-9476 or 505ccw.pa.publicaffairs@us.af.mil.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Expeditionary Medical Facility Kilo Completes Five-day Operational Readiness Exercise

US Navy

06 May 2025

From Petty Officer 2nd Class Justin Woods - Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune

FORT MCCOY, WI -- Expeditionary Medical Facility Kilo, the readiness command embedded at Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune, completes an operational readiness exercise on Fort McCoy, Wisconsin. The five-day training exercise which began April 25, 2025, covered multiple areas of patient care in a forward-deployed field environment.

The exercise provided the auxiliary command opportunities to maintain their personnel deployment readiness requirement.

"This type of training is essential because it helps us become and maintain our status as a ready medical platform," said Captain Martin Braud, EMF-Kilo executive officer. "The training went very well. The team came together and learned to work together in an expeditionary environment to provide care to warfighters in a Role 3 facility if we were called to go down range."

A Role 3 facility provides advanced emergency and surgical care in a mobile setting. More than 90 EMF-Kilo Sailors from multiple clinics and different health care disciplines came together to learn, teach, and ensure the readiness of the command in preparation for any potential combat deployments.

"Not only does this type of training enhance their skills in a deployed environment, but it also gives them the experience of deploying from a medical center to a more rudimentary environment," said Captain Darryl Arfsten, EMF-Kilo commanding officer. "They learn the basics of everything from the logistics of deploying, traveling, embedding with a new unit, constructing a medical facility, and executing their personal mission while assisting in the completion of a larger mission."

Groundwork for the ORE began prior to EMF-Kilo's arrival at Fort McCoy to ensure trainees received the most out of the field medical experience.

"The [training] team came here two days in advance to set up the tents before the rest of the Sailors arrived. Once they got here, they immediately started setting up their different clinics where they would be working throughout the exercise," said Lieutenant Commander Michael Kantar, assistant training officer.

The Sailors spent three days in training classes covering various topics such as moulage, nutrition management, and canine tactical combat casualty care. They then applied their skills in practical applications and finished with end-of-day debriefings. Experienced physicians, nurses, and Corpsmen worked along Sailors with no prior experience in patient care in an active combat zone to sharpen skillsets, passing along valuable knowledge.

"Medicine never changes, but the setting and the nuances of patient movement, patient tracking, just patient care can be fluid, and it's important these Sailors learn how to ensure quality care when they don't have everything they would have if they were in a setting like the medical clinic," said Lieutenant Kowalski, an intensive care nurse. "When Sailors come out here, they're forced to sink or swim, and we don't let anyone sink. They move out of their comfort zone and learn to think quickly to persevere and provide quality care."

The final day of the exercise was a culmination of everything the Sailors had learned in an advanced simulation scenario that included eight casualties and a simulated canine casualty.

"Sailors were immersed in the environment, which allowed them to focus on the training they received," said Lieutenant Nancy Broz, assistant training officer. "We did manual patient charting, lab requests were done with paper chits and hand-walked lab results, Sailors became familiar with the field equipment. Also, Fort McCoy offered a cadre of experienced trainers to teach our Sailors how to moulage for casualty simulation."

The entire evolution provided junior Sailors and Officers a chance to learn new skills and immediately apply them in a combat setting.

"Overall, the training was awesome," Hospitalman Dean Robidouxosejo, an ophthalmology optician. "The chemistry from the charge nurse down to basic corpsmen pushed us to strive for the most optimal care for warfighters out in the field. I wouldn't want to be with any other team for this exercise."

EMF-Kilo is the readiness platform attached to Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Camp Lejeune and is comprised of approximately 400 personnel ready to deploy field hospital capabilities during humanitarian or combat mission.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






May 7, 2025: Since 2022 Russia has already been hit with sanctions on Russian IT or Information Technology companies. This effort has had little impact because the Russian computer manufacturers continue to obtain western components smuggled in via third countries. Russian software developers still create software for Russian laptops and desktop computers and install western quality software. One difference is the GPS tracking feature of most PCs, tablets and laptops. This enables foreign intelligence agencies to note that many Russian computers are still operating despite the sanctions that were meant to cripple them. When needed, Russian users can easily disable the GPS feature in their computers.

At the same time Russia is still engaging in Cyber War. These include disrupting GPS navigation in the Baltic Sea. This attack was aimed at one of the Baltic states, Estonia, because a World War II T-34 tank serving as a Soviet Communist war memorial in Estonia was removed. Estonia declared neutrality when World War II broke out in 1939, and spent most of the war occupied by neutral German troops. The Russians drove the Germans out in late 1944 and brutally occupied Estonia until 1991.

That was why the T-34 memorial was removed. The Russians responded by jamming Estonian GPS. There was even worse retribution against the tiny Caucasus nation of Georgia. Russian Cyber Warriors gained access to and sometimes disrupted operations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Finance, the National Bank of Georgia, energy and telecommunications companies, oil terminals, and television networks. Russia could have also terminated nationwide power plant operations.

The situation is not completely normal for the Russian IT industry. Over ten percent of their IT specialists have left the country because the U.S. has imposed sanctions on Russian IT companies and banned Russian IT specialists from working for American clients. Some of the IT specialists may have left to avoid being mobilized into the army and sent to Ukraine.

The current Cyber War is not the first between Estonia and Russia. Back in 2007 NATO was called on by Estonia to declare Cyber War on Russia. This was because recent Russian Cyber War attacks on Estonia caused enormous financial losses. Estonia wants this sort of thing declared terrorism, and dealt with. NATO agreed to discuss the issue and make a decision. That's big progress in this area.

Cyber Wars have been going on since the 1990s and are getting worse. It started in the 1990s, as individuals attacked the web sites in other nations because of diplomatic disputes. This was usually stirred up by some international incident. India and Pakistan went at it several times, and Arabs and Israelis have been trashing each others web sites for years. The Arabs soon backed down because the Israeli hackers were much more effective. Chinese and Taiwanese hackers went at each other periodically, and in 2001, Chinese and American hackers clashed because of a collision off the Chinese coast between an American reconnaissance aircraft and a Chinese fighter.

After that these Cyber Wars have escalated from website defacing and shutting down sites with massive DDOS attacks. There were also elaborate espionage efforts against American military networks. The attackers were believed to be Chinese, and some American military commanders were calling for counter attacks to deal with the matter.

The Russian attacks against Estonia were the result of Estonia moving a statue, honoring Russian World War II soldiers, from the center of the capital, to a military cemetery. The Estonians always saw the statue as a reminder of half a century of Russian occupation and oppression. Russia saw the statue move as an insult to the efforts of Russian soldiers to liberate Estonia, and enable the Russians to occupy the place for half a century. The basic problem here is that most Russians don't see their Soviet era ancestors as evil people, despite the millions of Russians and non-Russians killed by the Soviet secret police. The Russians are very proud of their defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, ignoring the fact that in 1939 the Soviet government was just biding its time before it launched its own invasion of Germany and Europe in general.

While many Russians would have backed a military attack on Estonia, to retaliate for the insult by an ungrateful neighbor, this approach was seen as imprudent. Estonia is now part of NATO, and an attack on one NATO member is considered an attack on all. It's because of this Russian threat that Estonia was so eager to get into NATO. The Russians, however, believe that massive Cyber War attacks will not trigger a NATO response. They were so sure of this that some of the early DDOS attacks were easily traced back to computers owned by the Russian government. When that got out, the attacks stopped for a few days, and then resumed from what appeared to be illegal botnets, and maybe some legal botnets as well. Russian language message boards were full of useful information on how to join the holy war against evil Estonia. There's no indication that anyone is afraid of a visit from the Russian cyber-police for any damage they might do to Estonia. And the damage has been significant, amounting to millions of dollars. While no one was injured, Estonia is insisting that this attack, by Russia, should trigger the mutual defense provisions of the NATO treaty. That did not happen but the results of this incident were interesting.
Sullivan's Island Plays Key Role in Navy's 'Southern Lightning' Event

US Navy

06 May 2025

From Steve Ghiringhelli, NIWC Atlantic Public Affairs Office

NIWC Atlantic and NSWC Crane's "Southern Lightning," supported by Sullivan's Island (Mayor O'Neil), tested unmanned systems communications for a hybrid fleet. Part of Silent Swarm, it integrates manned/unmanned systems. Testing used vehicles supported by the USS Cole and SC National Guard. The island's environment advances communication capabilities.

SULLIVAN'S ISLAND, S.C. -- Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Atlantic recently completed a week of research and communications testing involving unmanned autonomous systems off the coast of Sullivan's Island in partnership with Indiana-based Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division (NSWC Crane) and U.S. Fleet Forces Command.

Underpinning last month's event dubbed "Southern Lightning" was the Department of the Navy imperative to develop a future hybrid fleet that integrates manned and unmanned systems across all warfighting domains  land, air and sea.

"Our strong collaboration with NSWC Crane exemplifies the intrinsic value warfare centers bring to the naval research and development establishment," said Kevin Charlow, NIWC Atlantic acting executive director. "Alongside strong community support on Sullivan's Island, it was remarkable to see the enthusiasm of our scientists and engineers working hard to envision which technologies might offer our warfighters the most promising capabilities."

Each year, Sullivan's Island is the site of the first leg of the two-week Southern Lightning experimentation event. The second week took place at Savannah River National Laboratory in Aiken, South Carolina, where NIWC Atlantic has collaborated with the Department of Energy since 2023.

"Sullivan's Island has been an important site of American security since the Battle of Sullivan's Island in 1776, where the British were handed the first major defeat of their naval fleet, mere feet from NIWC Atlantic's current location," said Sullivan's Island Mayor Patrick O'Neil. "We continue to be proud of our connection to our nation's military preparedness efforts and appreciate NIWC Atlantic's critical efforts on behalf of our 21st Century defense.

"They are also good neighbors," O'Neil added, "making sure that the town government and our residents are aware of their activities that might otherwise be cause for curiosity and rumor."

In addition to a tethered aerostat flying over Charleston Harbor, communications testing during Southern Lightning was facilitated by placing sensors, relays and radios on unmanned aerial, surface and subsurface vehicles.

Making this year different from previous iterations was the presence of a U.S. Navy warship anchored off South Carolina.

U.S. Fleet Forces Command positioned the Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) more than 20 miles off the coast and flew MH-60R helicopters in the area to help Navy engineers evaluate the viability of new USV technologies and concepts in an operational environment.

The South Carolina National Guard also supported communications efforts with AH-64 Apache helicopters.

During the event, unmanned systems owned by industry were launched from the western tip of Sullivan's Island early in the morning and operated alongside the USS Cole far out at sea. Meanwhile, NIWC Atlantic and NSWC Crane technologists in Southern Lightning's maritime operations center, or MOC, monitored signals and analyzed endless streams of data.

The MOC operated inside of NIWC Atlantic's facility on Sullivan's Island, located in a brick building on a hill next to Fort Moultrie.

In the bigger picture, Southern Lightning is a portion of a series of larger Department of Defense (DoD) experimentations each year called Silent Swarm. Led by NSWC Crane and sponsored by the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, Silent Swarm invites industry to Lake Huron every summer to similarly experiment with early-stage technologies and drones.

Because Sullivan's Island and NIWC Atlantic are key enablers for Southern Lightning, NSWC Crane was provided an excellent opportunity to experiment with Silent Swarm technology initiatives in a unique, multi-domain environment that included the fleet, said Robert "Ice" Gamberg, Silent Swarm lead and NSWC Crane Fleet Experimentation Lead.

"It brought together teams from across DoD and industry," he said.

In tandem with Silent Swarm, Southern Lightning has grown into a golden opportunity for NIWC Atlantic, offering the command's engineers and scientists a chance to hone communications capabilities critical to any future hybrid fleet setting.

"In addition to being a leader in the integration of communication architecture for unmanned systems, NIWC Atlantic provides an environment through our partnership with Sullivan's Island that not many other warfare centers can offer," said Cliff Hunt, NIWC Atlantic senior scientific technical manager for assured communications. "In the Lowcountry, we have protected harbors and can provide industry, government innovators and Sailors the unique ability to get out into deep water quickly."

NIWC Atlantic has routinely conducted testing on Sullivan's Island in recent years. Navy leaders said military radios used during Southern Lightning did not interfere with other frequencies or electronic communications in the area.

Christian Martin, a NIWC Atlantic engineer who helped lead Southern Lightning, said the MOC and the maritime environment in and around Sullivan's Island really helps Navy scientists and engineers think outside the box and figure out how the communication architecture in the unmanned arena can be conceived and rapidly developed for the warfighter.

"In a nutshell, everything NIWC Atlantic is involved in centers around assured and resilient communications across all domains, especially the littoral environment," Martin said. "It is the exceptional community of Sullivan's Island that has been a key enabler for this, helping us advance critical capabilities to our Sailors and Marines."

About NSWC Crane

NSWC Crane is a naval laboratory in Crane, Indiana, and a field activity of Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) with mission areas in Expeditionary Warfare, Strategic Missions and Electronic Warfare. The warfare center is responsible for multi-domain, multi-spectral, full life cycle support of technologies and systems enhancing capability to today's warfighter.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






8 killed, 35 injured, 2 missing after India fired missiles at 6 locations in Pakistan

Global Times

By Global Times Published: May 07, 2025 06:23 AM

At least eight people were killed, 35 others injured, and 2 were missing on Wednesday after India fired missiles at six different locations in Pakistan, said the Pakistani military, the Xinhua News Agency reported on Wednesday.

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has shot down another Indian fighter jet in response to overnight airstrikes, sources from the Pakistani military said on Wednesday, according to Xinhua.

This is the third Indian fighter jet that has been shot down in response to the overnight strikes, said the military sources.

"Pakistani forces are giving a befitting reply to Indian aggression," a military statement said, adding that all PAF aircraft involved in the operation had returned safely, Xinhua reported.

Eyewitnesses in Rawalpindi, a major city in Pakistan's eastern Punjab province, reported seeing a missile in the air, which was believed to have been launched from within Pakistani territory, according to Xinhua.

The Indian government on Wednesday confirmed carrying out air strikes on nine identified "terrorist-training camps" located in the Pakistan-controlled Kashmir. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally monitored the air strikes, according to Indian media reports, Xinhua reported.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran condemns Israeli regime's brutal attacks on Yemen

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

May 7, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei has strongly condemned the Israeli regime's military aggression against the port of Al-Hodeidah and other infrastructure in Yemen describing it as a clear crime and a blatant violation of the principles and rules of international law.

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson pointed out that the Israeli regime's attacks on Yemen's port, industrial, and residential facilities are carried out with the support and involvement of the United States.

He called these aggressions a clear breach of law and a violation of the principles and foundations of the United Nations Charter regarding respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries.

Baqaei also urged the international community and regional countries to take effective action to stop the killing and destruction carried out by the U.S. and the Israeli regime in Islamic countries.

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson emphasized that the only way to prevent the spread of insecurity in the region is to stop the genocide and crimes committed by the Israeli regime in Gaza and to end the impunity of the regime's criminals.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran welcomes Oman-mediated ceasefire halting U.S. attacks on Yemen

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

May 7, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei has welcomed Oman's statement regarding the cessation of U.S. attacks on Yemen, saying that regional countries will not forget the Yemeni people's legendary resistance against foreign aggression.

In a statement on Wednesday, Baqaei praised the steadfastness of the Yemeni nation in supporting the Palestinians amid Israeli genocide and occupation, as well as their resilience against repeated U.S. aggressions over the past year.

While appreciating the Omani government's efforts in mediating a ceasefire between Washington and Sana'a, the spokesperson urged the international community to take immediate and effective action to halt Israeli attacks on Yemen.

He accused the U.S. government of complicity in crimes committed by the Israeli regime against the Yemeni people.

Earlier, Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi confirmed a truce deal between the U.S. and Yemen.

"Following recent discussions and contacts conducted by the Sultanate of Oman with the United States and the relevant authorities in Sana'a, Republic of Yemen, aimed at de-escalation, efforts have resulted in a ceasefire agreement between the two sides," Albusaidi wrote in a post on X.

The United States and the Israeli regime have carried out repeated airstrikes on Yemen in recent months, targeting critical facilities in the country in an effort to deter Yemenis from supporting the Palestinians.

The Yemeni Armed Forces have also targeted shipping linked to Israel and the U.S. in the Red Sea and have launched missile strikes on Israeli-occupied territories.

On Wednesday, the Ansarullah movement stated that the ceasefire agreement with the United States does not include operations against the Israeli regime.

4399**4353

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Trump Announces End To Bombing Of Houthi Rebels In Yemen, Saying They 'Don't Want To Fight Anymore'

By RFE/RL May 07, 2025

US President Donald Trump said on May 6 that he's ordering a halt to US air strikes on Houthi rebels in Yemen after the Iran-backed group agreed to stop attacking ships on important shipping routes in the Middle East.

"We're going to stop the bombing of the Houthis, effective immediately," Trump said at the start of a meeting at the White House with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.

After Trump made the announcement, Oman said it had mediated the cease-fire, and confirmed that the US campaign was ending.

"In the future, neither side will target the other, including American vessels, in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait, ensuring freedom of navigation and the smooth flow of international commercial shipping," Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi said on X, calling the agreement a "welcome outcome."

The United States launched a campaign of air strikes in March, and Trump promised to use "overwhelming lethal force."

That came after the Houthis said they would resume attacks on Israeli vessels sailing off Yemen in response to Israel's mounting another blockade on the Gaza Strip.

Trump said on May 6 that the Houthis had indicated to US officials that "they don't want to fight anymore. They just don't want to fight. And we will honor that, and we will stop the bombings."

He said the announcement means the Houthis "will not be blowing up ships anymore."

The Houthis have been firing at shipping in the Red Sea and at Israel since Israel began its military offensive in Gaza against Hamas, which has been designated by the US and the EU as a terrorist organization, after the Palestinian militant group launched a deadly attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.

The statement from Oman did not mention whether the Houthis had agreed to stop attacks on Israel.

The head of Yemen's Houthi Supreme Political Council, Mahdi al-Mashat, said the group would continue to support Gaza.

Separately, the head of Yemen's Houthi supreme revolutionary committee, Mohammed Ali al-Houthi, said on X that the US halt of "aggression" against Yemen would be evaluated.

Israel's military on May 6 launched air strikes against the Houthis that it said fully disabled the international airport in the Yemeni capital, Sanaa. Israel's attacks were in retaliation for a Houthi missile strike on May 4 on Israel's international airport.

Gregory Brew, a senior analyst with the Eurasia Group risk-analysis firm, said on X that the Houthis have not fired on a commercial ship since December.

"They are likely, however, to continue shooting at Israel," Brew said.

From November 2023 until January 2025, the Houthis targeted more than 100 merchant vessels with missiles and drones. That has greatly reduced the flow of trade through the Red Sea corridor, which typically sees $1 trillion of goods move through it annually.

With reporting by AP and Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/yemen-huthi-rebels- trump-oman-israel/33406558.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.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Kashmir - 2025 - Operation Sindoor

On 07 May 2025, India announced that the Indian Armed Forces had launched 'OPERATION SINDOOR', targeting "terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed", striking altogether, nine (9) sites, located both in Pakistan as well as Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK) areas. According to India's statement, its actions were "focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted".

Pakistani Lieutenant General Ahmad Sharif, the director-general of Pakistan's Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), told a news conference that there had been "24 impacts from India on six places" and that eight Pakistani citizens had been killed in the strikes, including a 16-year-old girl, while 35 others had been wounded and another eight initially missing. According to Pakistan, the sites struck by India were civilian in nature and reportedly included two mosques.

Pakistan's prime minister vowed to respond, claiming Pakistan had every right to give robust response to what he called an act of war, and scheduled an emergency meeting of the National Security Committee for 10 a.m. (local time) on May 7.

The country's Information Minister Attaullah Tarar claimed that Pakistan's Air Force had shot down three Indian jets as well as one Indian drone, while Pakistani broadcaster Geo reported that Pakistan's armed forces had shot down "five Indian Air Force (IAF) jets." Pakistani Defense Minister Khwaja Asif said only civilian targets had been hit in the missile attack.

Muzaffarabad, capital of Pakistani Kashmir, lost electrical power following the attacks, resulting in a blackout. ISPR said India fired missiles at two other locations in addition to Muzaffarabad -- Kotli in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Bahawalpur in Punjab Province. The Bahawalpur and Muridke areas are considered centers for the terrorist groups Jaish-e Muhammad and Lashkar-e Jhangvi.

Pakistan suspended all flights and operations at the Lahore and Islamabad airports for the following 48 hours

The attack marked another escalatory step between the two nuclear-armed countries. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for military restraint from both countries, saying in a statement that "he world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan".

India and Pakistan exchanged artillery fire along the Line of Contact (LoC), with, according to the Indian army, Pakistani artillery fire occuring in in Bhimber Gali, and resulting in the deaths of three civilians in Indian-controlled Kashmir. India claimed 13 civilians to have been killed and 59 wounded during exchanges of fire across the border on May 7, and the army said an Indian soldier had also been killed by shelling.

On 08 May, Pakistan claimed to have shot down 25 drones using a mix of technical and weapons-based countermeasures, while a civilian had been killed in Sindh Province and four soldiers wounded in Lahore as a result of Indian drone strikes.

India claimed that, on "the night of 7 - 8 May 2025 Pakistan attempted to engage a number of military targets in Northern and Western India using drones and missiles. These places included Avantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Nal, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bathinda, Chandigarh, Falaudi, Uttarlai and Bhuj. These were neutralized by the Integrated Counter Unmanned Aerial System and other Air Defense systems." In turn, Indian armed forces retalitated on 08 May by targeting Air Defence radars and systems at a number of locations in Pakistan. Pakistan also reportedly increased the intensity of its firing across the Line of Control using mortar and heavy-caliber artillery in areas in Kupwara, Baramulla, Uri, Poonch, Mendhar and Rajouri sectors in Jammu and Kashmir.

As of 8 May, Pakistan claimed that 26 of its citizens had been killed and another 46 injured. Pakistan's Air Force claimed to have engaged Indian fighter jets in self-defense, while bringing down five Indian fighter aircraft, including a French Rafale jet, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in the process. Pakistani authorities confirmed that Chinese-procured J-10C jets had participated in Pakistan's response to Indian attacks.

India claimed that, on "the night of 8th - 9th May 2025, Pakistan carried out multiple violations of Indian airspace along the entire western border with an intent to target military infrastructure. Pakistan military also resorted to firing of heavy-caliber weapons along the Line of Control. Along the International Border and Line of Control, drone intrusions were attempted from Leh to Sir Creek at 36 locations with approximately 300 to 400 drones. Indian Armed Forces brought down a number of these drones using kinetic and non-kinetic means. The possible purpose of these large-scale aerial intrusions were to test the AD systems and gather intelligence." Preliminary reports suggested the the drone debris to be of an ASISGUARD SONGAR drone made in Turkey. In addition, "later in the night, an armed UAV of Pakistan attempted to target Bathinda military station, which was detected and neutralized. In response to the Pakistani attack, armed drones were launched at four air defence sites in Pakistan. One of the drones was able to destroy an AD radar. Pakistan also carried out artillery shelling across the Line of Control using heavy-caliber artillery guns and armed drones at Tangdhar, Uri, Poonch, Mendhar, Rajouri, Akhnoor and Udhampur in J&K area, which resulted in some losses and injuries to Indian Army personnel. Pakistan Army also suffered major losses in Indian retaliatory fire."

During a 09 May 2025 Ministry of Foreign Affairs briefing, Pakistan contested "the assertion that Pakistan escalated the situation through the Pahalgam Attack of 22 April 2025 is totally absurd. Till date, India has not been able to produce any credible and verifiable evidence of Pakistan's involvement in the attack. To the contrary, the acts of aggression committed by India's armed forces had the approval and support of its entire government. Thus, it is India that has escalated the situation by violating Pakistan's sovereignty and killing civilians. The Pakistani forces did not attack Pahalgam but the Indian forces did attack multiple locations in Pakistan. Accordingly, Pakistan reserves the right to take all appropriate measures in its self-defence, as enshrined in Article 51 of the UN Charter."

India was reported to have launched attacks against three Pakistani airbases (Noor Khan Air base, Murid Airbase and Shorkot Airbase) using air-to-surface missiles launched from warplanes.

Late on 9 May, Pakistan launched a military operation in retaliation against India, striking a depot in Beas,Punjab Province, used to store Brahmos missiles. As a result of the the operation, codenamed Bunyanun Marsoos, an Arabic word taken from a verse in the Koran meaning a strong pillar, Pakistan claimed to have destroyed the facility. In addition, other sites were targeted, including the Pathankot Airfield and Udhampur Airforce Station, with these two struck using Pakistani Fatah 1 missiles.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for an emergency meeting of the National Command Authority to be held on May 10.

As of 10 May, Pakistan claimed to have downed more than 80 Indian drones over Pakistani airspace.

During a 10 May briefing, India stated that:

"Pakistani military continued with its provocations, carrying out aggressive actions employing multiple threat vectors all along the western border. Pakistan employed UCAV, drones, long-range weapons, loitering munitions and fighter aircrafts to target civilian areas and military infrastructure. Pakistan military also resorted to air intrusions using drones and firing of heavy calibre weapons along the Line of Control. Along the international border and the Line of Control, air intrusions and several harassment attacks were also attempted from Srinagar till Naliya at more than 26 locations. Indian Armed Forces successfully neutralised these threats and majority of the vectors. However, limited damage was sustained to equipment and personnel at Indian Air Force stations at Udhampur, Pathankot, Adampur and Bhuj. There were also several high-speed missile attacks noticed subsequently after 0140 hours in the night at several air bases in Punjab. In a deplorable cowardly act, targeting of civilian infrastructure also had taken place where Pakistan attacked the medicare centre and school premises at the air bases of Srinagar, Awantipora and Udhampur, yet again displaying irresponsible targeting of our civilian infrastructure. In a swift and calibrated response, Indian Armed Forces carried out precision attacks only on identified military targets. These included technical infrastructure, command and control centres, radar sites and weapon storage areas. Pakistan military targets at Rafiqui, Murid, Chaklala, Rahim Yar Khan, Sukkur and Chunian were engaged using air-launched precision weapons from our fighter aircrafts. Radar sites at Pasrur and Sialkot aviation base were also targeted using precision munitions. While carrying out these responses, India ensured minimum collateral damage.

Pakistan has also attempted to execute a continued malicious misinformation campaign with claims of destruction of Indian S-400 system at Adampur, destruction of airfields at Suratgarh and Sirsa, BrahMos base at Nagrota, RT gun positions at Dehrangyari and Chandigarh Forward Ammunition Depot; with heavy damages to other military stations being propagated on social media. India unequivocally rejects these false narratives being spread by Pakistan. Along the Line of Control also, Pakistan has attempted multiple air intrusions using drones and conducted shelling using heavy-calibre RT guns, targeting civilian infrastructure and killing some civilians. Heavy exchange of artillery mortars and small-arm fire in Kupwara, Baramulla, Poonch, Rajouri and Akhnoor sectors continued. Indian Army has responded effectively and proportionately, causing extensive damage to Pakistan Army. Pak military has been observed to be moving their troops into forward areas, indicating offensive intent to further escalate the situation. Indian Armed Forces remain in a high state of operational readiness. All hostile actions have been effectively countered and responded appropriately."

On 10 May, the Director General of Military Operations of Pakistan called the Director General of Military Operations of India at 1535 hours IST. As a result of the call, both sides agreed to stop all firing and military action on land and in the air and sea with effect from 1700 hours Indian Standard Time that day.

US President Donald Trump claimed credit for the ceasefire with the United States mediating "a long night of talks" between India and Pakistan, and also offered to act as mediator on the issue of Kashmir. New Delhi rejected both claims, stating that Pakistan had reached out to India directly, and that the US had not brokered the ceasefire. Moreover, India restated its "long-standing national position that any issues pertaining to the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir have to be addressed by India and Pakistan bilaterally. That stated policy has not changed".

In a 12 May 2025 address to the nation, Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi stated that "Operation Sindoor is not just a name but it's a reflection of the feelings of millions of people of the country. Operation 'Sindoor' is our unwavering commitment to justice.". In addition, he stated that

"The world saw how Pakistan's drones and missiles fell like straws in front of India. India's strong air defense system destroyed them in the sky itself. Pakistan had prepared for an attack on the border, but India struck at the heart of Pakistan. India's drones and missiles attacked with precision. They damaged those airbases of the Pakistani Air Forces, of which Pakistan was very proud. India caused heavy damage to Pakistan in the first three days itself, which it had never imagined. That's why after India's aggressive action, Pakistan started looking for ways to escape. Pakistan was pleading to the world to ease tensions. And after suffering heavy losses, Pakistan's army contacted our DGMO on the afternoon of 10th May. By then we had destroyed the infrastructure of terrorism on a large scale. The terrorists were eliminated. We had destroyed the terror camps established in the heart of Pakistan. Therefore, when Pakistan appealed and said that it will not indulge in any sort of terror activities or military audacity further, India considered it. And I am repeating again, we have just suspended our retaliatory action against Pakistan's terror and military camps. In the coming days we will measure every step of Pakistan on the criterion that what sort of attitude Pakistan will adopt ahead."

Prime Minister Modi concluded by saying that:

"After the surgical strike and air strike, now Operation Sindoor is India's policy against terrorism. Operation Sindoor has carved out a new benchmark in our fight against terrorism and has set up a new parameter and new normal. First, If there is a terrorist attack on India, a fitting reply will be given. We will give a befitting response on our terms only. We will take strict action at every place from where the roots of terrorism emerge. Secondly, India will not tolerate any nuclear blackmail. India will strike precisely and decisively at the terrorist hideouts developing under the cover of nuclear blackmail. Thirdly, we will not differentiate between the government sponsoring terrorism and the masterminds of terrorism. During Operation Sindoor the world has again seen the ugly face of Pakistan, when top Pakistani army officers came to bid farewell to the slain terrorists. This is strong evidence of state-sponsored terrorism.We will continue to take decisive steps to protect India and our citizens from any threat."

On 15 May 2025, Pakistan's Prime Minister mentionned confirmation about the "successful downing of a sixth Indian aircraft on the night of 6/ 7 May, a Mirage-2000 near Pampore east of Srinagar" during a visit to the Pakistan Air Force's operational base at Kamra.

Sindoor

Sindoor is a traditional cosmetic powder, usually vermillin red or orange-red in color, usually worn by Hindu women to denote their marital status. Worn either as a line or a dot in the parting of the hair or on the forehead, it is removed when the women becomes widowed. The choice of Sindoor as the name of the operatoin was interpreted as signaling India's desire to avenge the women who had become widowed as a result of the Pahalgam terrosist attack.

The choice of Sindoor was also taken as a nod to right-wing Hindu groups, the traditional political base of the Hindu nationalist government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. With its largely male-driven views, some criticism was leveled about how this was instumentalizing traditional gender roles to justify a military response, with V. Geetha, a feminist historian who writes about gender, caste and class, being quoted in the New York Times as saying that "women figure in it as objects to be protected or as mother figures goading their men to prove their heroism". The New York Times referenced one of the victims, whose husband was killed in the Pahalgam attack and who went from a symbol to rally around to a target of attacks and vilification for calling for "peace, and only peace".

Pahalgam Terrorist Attack

The 07 May 2025 attacks followed a 22 April 2025 terrorist attack in the town of Pahalgam in the Indian-administered Kashmir in which 26 tourists (25 Indians and one Nepali citizen) were killed. India immediately blamed Pakistan for the violence and vowed to respond.

Responsibility for the attack was claimed by a group calling itself The Resistance Front (TRF), but which India claimed was a front for the UN-proscribed Pakistani terrorist group, Lashkar-e-Taiba. As described by Shri Vikram Misri, Indian Foreign Secretary, in a 07 May 2025 briefing, "It is notable that India had given inputs about the TRF in the half-yearly report to the Monitoring Team of the UN's 1267 Sanctions Committee in May and November 2024, bringing out its role as a cover for Pakistan-based terrorist groups. Earlier too, in December 2023, India had informed the monitoring team about LeT and Jaish-e-Mohammad operating through small terror groups such as the TRF. Pakistan's pressure to remove references to TRF in the April 25 UN Security Council Press Statement is notable in this regard."

Pakistan denied any involvement in the attack. Instead it claimed the incident to be a false-flag operation by India and that it had intelligence that India was planning to attack.

On 23 April 2025, in response to the Pahalgam attack, India closed the Wagah-Attari border crossing, and suspended the Indus Waters Treaty it shared with Pakistan. That water-sharing agreement governing the use of six rivers in the Indus Basin had been mediated by the World Bank and signed in 1960. Pakistan said could be considered "an act of war" given the country's existential reliance on the water supplied by those rivers. Islamabad responded by suspending visas issued to Indian nationals, closing its airspace to Indian airlines, and test-firing several long-range missiles; the Abdali surface-to-surface missile (with a range of 450 kilometers) on 03 May and the FATAH Series surface-to-surface missile on 05 May 2025.



NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russo-Ukraine War - 06 May 2025 - Day 1168

Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.

"To initiate a war of aggression... 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." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal]

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that so far, there have been 119 combat clashes.

The hottest situation today in Pokrovsky, Lyman and Novopavlivsky directions.

For today, the Russian enemy launched one missile and 74 air strikes, used one missile and 121 KAB, engaged 1317 kamikaze drones for impact, carried out more than 4700 shells of the positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements.

In the Kharkiv direction, Russian forces attacked eight times near vovchansk and vovchanskih farms, currently ongoing one battle.

In the Kupyansky direction, Russian forces tried to advance to Ukrainian positions in the areas of Zagrizove and Petropavlivka settlements three times during the day, Ukrainian units repelled the Russian invaders' attacks.

In the Lymanian direction, Russian forces attacked 19 times in the areas of settlements Lipove, Nadia, Green Grove, Ridkodub, Yampolivka, Torske and in the directions of the New Peace, Green Valley and Wells. Ukrainian warriors have stopped 15 attacks of the Russian zagarbnikiv, four more fights are still ongoing.

In the Kramators komu direction, Ukrainian defenders repelled two Russian attacks in the area of Kurdumivka and Chasovoye Yaru, three more confrontations continue.

In the Toretsky direction, Russian forces carried out six offensive actions on the positions of Ukrainian troops in the areas of Dachnyo, Friendship and Toretsk, one confrontation is ongoing.

Since the beginning of the day, the Russian enemy has tried 46 times to infiltrate Ukrainian defense in the Pokrovsky direction in the areas of settlements Kalinove, Romin, Lisivka, Dachenske, Shevchenko, Kotline, Udaachne, Troitske, Novosergiyivka, Kotlyarivka, Sribne, Andriyivka, and in the directions of Malinivka, Novopavlivka, Pokrovskaya, Mirolyubivka, Oleksiyivka, there are currently five fighting in progress. Russian aviation struck areas of populated Rusin Yar, Nova Poltavka, Stara Mykolaivka, Mirnograd, Bilitske, Pokrovsk, Oleksandro-Kalinove, Zorya and Novopavlivka with controlled air bombs.

According to the available preliminary information, the losses of the Russian occupiers to date are 161 people killed and injured, in addition seven cars, seven motorcycles, 10 airplanes, three satellite terminals, one mortar were destroyed, in addition, a cannon and satellite terminal of the Russian enemy were damaged.

In the Novopavlovsky direction, Ukrainian soldiers have already repelled 15 attacks of the Russian occupation army in the areas of settlements of Konstantinopil, Privilne, Rivnopil, Novosilka, Vilne Pole and in the directions of settlements of Shevchenko, Novopil, Odradne, another confrontation is still ongoing. Air strikes were suffered by Novopil, Temirivka, Olgivske, Willow, Green Field and Novodarivka.

In the Gulyaipil direction, in the area of the settlement point Vysoke, the Defense Forces repelled two Russian attacks. Gulyaipole and Malinivka suffered aviation strikes.

In the Orihiv direction, Ukrainian defenders repelled four Russian attacks near Stepovoye, Maliy Sherbaky, Kamiansky and in the direction of Novoandriivka. Russian forces caused air strikes on small tokmacci and kamians komu.

In the Pridniprovsk direction, Russian occupiers once unsuccessfully attacked in the direction of the positions of Ukrainian defenders. The Russian enemy launched an air strike with unmanaged aviation missiles on the area of the Olgivka settlement.

In the Kurs komu direction in general, for today Russian occupiers have made 10 attempts to move forward. Russian forces launched nine air strikes and shot down 15 KABs, carried out 268 artillery shelling of the positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements, including four - from reactive systems of open-air fire.





NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






U.S. intelligence agencies refute Trump's deportation rationale

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

May 6, 2025

U.S. intelligence agencies have released a memo, challenging the Trump administration's rationale for using the Alien Enemies Act to rapidly deport Venezuelan men to a notorious prison in El Salvador, according to The New York Times.

The memo, released on Monday, reveals that the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro does not oversee the activities of the criminal gang, known as Tren de Aragua.

This finding contradicts President Trump's allegation that the U.S. is facing an invasion from a hostile foreign country, a justification for expedited deportations without judicial assessment.

The memo of the National Intelligence Council indicates that while the gang takes advantage of the chaos in Venezuela, it lacks direct connections to the Maduro government.

The memo also challenges Trump's depiction of Tren de Aragua as a major national security threat, saying that the gang has a decentralized nature and focuses on amateur criminal activities.

Since March 2025, the Trump administration has reinstated the Alien Enemies Act to deport around 250 Venezuelan men, including some with legal status or no criminal history.

The Supreme Court later challenged this decision, ruling that individuals labeled as "alien enemies" must be allowed to contest their deportations.

A Trump-appointed judge has recently ruled that the administration's use of the Alien Enemies Act for rapid deportations was illegal, saying it should only apply during armed, organized attacks.

4208**9417

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






US Space Command hosts Global Sentinel 2025 exercise

United States Space Force

Published May 6, 2025

By LaDonna Davis

U.S. Space Forces - Space

VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. (AFNS) -- U.S. Space Command kicked off its premier space security cooperation capstone event, Global Sentinel 2025, bringing together nearly 30 partner nations plus NATO, April 28.

The two-week event, held at Vandenberg Space Force Base, focuses on strengthening international partnerships, enhancing operational collaboration and promoting responsible behavior in space.

Army Maj. Gen. Richard L. Zellmann, Combined Joint Force Space Component deputy commander, welcomed the multinational group of space operators, highlighting the importance of their expertise in space situational and domain awareness.

"It's very rare that you get an occasion where you get this many people together that all understand space situational awareness and space domain awareness to that level that you all do," Zellmann said.

"Over the course of the next couple of weeks, you're going to have the opportunity to run through twelve different threads, everywhere from a normal, standard launch all the way to direct ascent, satellite weapons and everything in between."

Building upon the success of Global Sentinel 2024, this year's event expanded participation to 29 nations and NATO, adding Chile, Denmark, Greece and India to the roster. Returning participants include Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, New Zealand, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, Ukraine, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Embedded within Regional Space Operations Centers, participants maintain national command and control of their sensors for planning, tasking and analysis. The exercise leverages a dedicated Global Sentinel version of Space-Track.org for capstone modeling and simulation gameplay, mirroring the platform used for real-world events and daily unclassified space operations. In addition to the exercises, the program includes leadership panels, tours and workshops to foster greater collaboration among international partners.

More than 250 participants will participate in the Capstone Modeling & Simulation gameplay on a GS-branded Space-Track.org site that mirrors the site used in Real-World Events and other daily unclassified space operations. Over the course of the event, partner nations will also have the opportunity to participate in leadership panels, tours and workshops designed to build greater collaboration between international partners.

Participants for GS25 include: Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, New Zealand, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, Ukraine, United Kingdom, the United States and members from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Headquarters, with new participants from Chile, Denmark, Greece and India.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Canada 'never for sale': Carney tells Trump in Oval Office meeting

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 May 2025 7:25 PM

In an Oval Office meeting with President Donald Trump, newly-elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said his country is "not for sale" and "won't be for sale, ever."

During the meeting on Tuesday, Trump insisted to Carney that it would be a "wonderful marriage" if Canada agreed to his repeated calls to become the 51st US state.

"I still believe that. But it takes two to tango, right?" Trump said, suggesting Canada joining the US would lead to major tax cuts and other benefits for Canadian citizens.

Carney responded, Canada "is not for sale."

"As you know from real estate, there are some places that are never for sale."

Canada, Carney said, "won't be for sale ever, but the opportunity is in the partnership and what we can build together."

Relations between Washington and Ottawa have been strained by Trump's tariffs and his remarks about making Canada the 51st state.

Carney said in his victory speech on April 29 that his country's previous ties with Washington "based on deepening integration of our economies and tight security and military cooperation, is over."

Just before Carney's arrival, Trump wrote on Truth Social that he "cannot understand one simple TRUTH  Why is America subsidizing Canada by $200 Billion Dollars a year, in addition to giving them FREE Military Protection, and many other things?"

He said that the United States doesn't need "ANYTHING they have, other than their friendship, which hopefully we will always maintain."

The Trump administration has imposed 25 percent tariffs on Canadian goods, though certain imports covered under the US-Mexico-Canada agreement (USMCA) signed in 2020 are exempt.

In the Oval Office meeting, when asked if Carney can say anything to lift the tariffs on Canada, Trump said, "No. That's the way it is."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






May 7, 2025: The war in Ukraine depends on how much industrial production each side can muster. As of early 2025 the Russians were winning because they have much more industry and industrial workers, though Ukraine punches a bit above its weight class.

The Russian defense industry managed to quickly increase defense production. Ukraine followed suit, although with lesser intensity because of fewer resources. NATO, especially European members, had to confront numerous problems while trying to expand defense related production. These countries had plenty of cash, but had not undertaken such a mobilization since the 1930s, when World War II was a growing threat.

Russia was always better prepared for war. This was demonstrated before 2022 when Russia created a military-industrial mobilization plan that was implemented soon after Russian forces invaded Ukraine. Since the invasion began in February 2022 Russia has suffered enormous losses in terms of combat personnel, military equipment and the reputation for quality, reliability and effectiveness of Russian weapons and military personnel.

Russia found that a more critical problem than equipment was manpower. Russian industry could produce more tanks and artillery, but getting enough soldiers was different. Heavy losses in Ukraine, mostly due to President Vladimir Putins constant insistence on suicidal attacks and the impact of that information on the Russian people, especially military-age men, derailed the expansion plans. A year ago, Russia increased the legal maximum number of its active-duty military personnel from 1,013,628 to 1,150,628. It was believed unlikely that this number would ever be reached. At the end of 2021, months before the invasion of Ukraine, Russian ground forces had about 400,000 men while the navy and air force each had about 150,000. About a third of air force personnel were paratroopers or air-mobile infantry. The navy had about 12,000 marines, who guarded naval bases in peacetime. That means the heavy Russian losses since the invasion began, and failure to mobilize many replacements, reduced the Russian 2021 army to about 250,000 personnel, which was less than a third of the Ukrainian Army. The airborne forces and marines also suffered heavy losses but more of them were still in service.

At the start of its invasion of Ukraine, the Russian government committed an estimated 190,000 troops to an attack on northern, eastern, and southern Ukraine. Because of stout Ukrainian resistance enabled by recently delivered weapons and intelligence from NATO countries, Russia was been unable to make much progress. Russian military losses were catastrophic. After eighteen months of war, the Russian military lost thousands of tanks, other armored vehicles and artillery systems. Personnel losses were nearly 300,000 by mid-2023.

After the invasion, Ukraine rapidly mobilized for war with substantial help from the Americans. The United States had enormous military resources and eventually sent Ukraine over 100 billion dollars worth of aid. That stopped in early 2025 as a new American government sought to force the European NATO members to do more for their neighbor. After all, Ukraine was a European country that bordered NATO members Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and Romania. Without the United States Europe had to quickly create defense industries or expand the ones they had. The Europeans had the cash and the motivation but time was not on their side. It would take several years to match the quantity of equipment the Americans had sent to Ukraine. The Europeans were also worried about the Russian threat to come after them once Ukraine was conquered. Europe hasnt faced such a crisis since 1939 and 1940. Back then the Europeans were not prepared enough and were overwhelmed by the Germans. It wasnt until 1944 when the Americans, British, Canadians and several smaller contingents came ashore at Normandy that the continent was liberated.

Once more the enemy is better prepared as Russia implanted an industrial production plan. This was something the Russians retained after 70 years as part of the Soviet Union. Both Russia and Ukraine maintain the same kind of control over their military production. This is a very centralized system that coordinates the investments in and operations of their defense industries. Europe lacks these customs and has to create defense industries from nothing, copying Russian and American techniques. The Europeans had the advantage of Ukrainian advisors, whose survival depends on how well Europe can manage military reindustrialization.

Another key factor is what this costs. Russia found that their more efficient defense industries also cost them a lot more than expected. Russia devotes most of its national budget to defense production, which left most Russians worse off than before the invasion of Ukraine.

Europe has far greater financial resources and many more financial experts to efficiently turn this cash into military might, and has not only expanded defense spending but also rerouted money from other budgets to expand military-industrial recapitalization, plus providing loans to defense companies to enable rapid growth. This poses challenges in the medium term. It is not reasonable to expect Europe, which is not at war, to mobilize investment to a comparable level. However, the fragmentation of the European defense market has meant that money is spent very inefficiently. Greater European coordination of spending is needed to get essential military equipment to Ukrainian and European soldiers before the Russians overwhelm everyone. That is unlikely. France and Britain have nuclear weapons and would effectively threaten a Russian invasion with nuclear retaliation. This is nothing new as it was done during the 44 year long Cold War between NATO and Russia. Now, a quarter century after the Cold War ended Russia again threatens Europe.

Russia invaded Ukraine because the Ukrainians wanted to be part of NATO Europe. That is what the war is all about and Europe cannot ignore Ukraine because that country is part of Europe and should not be part of a new Russian empire. Ukraine has been doing its part but has taken a tremendous beating from Russia. Recently Ukraines largest munitions plant was destroyed by Russian missiles. More and more Europeans can envision their own industries and cities bombarded by Russian missiles. The long held illusion that this could not happen to Europe has slowly faded away.
Canadian PM says talks with Trump constructive despite no tariffs lifting

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 08:57, May 07, 2025

OTTAWA, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Tuesday he had wide-ranging and constructive discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump in the White House, although the two leaders disagreed on tariffs lifting and the "51st state," according to the live broadcast of CBC News.

Giving a post-meeting news conference in Washington, D.C., Carney said that he and Trump agreed to have further conversations in the coming weeks and meet again in person at the G7 summit in Kananaskis, Alberta.

Carney said he told Trump it's "not useful" to repeat the 51st state idea, adding that Trump is the president who is going to say whatever he wants. "He understands that we are having a negotiation between sovereign nations," said Carney.

Responding to the question if he is heading back to Ottawa with any tangible progress on ending the trade war, Carney said they had some very specific things to follow up on and build out from that.

"These are the discussions you have when you're looking to find solutions," he said.

While Trump made it clear that the tariffs, especially those on the auto sector, would stay in place, Carney said, "We'll see."

Canadian workers and suppliers in auto plant towns are worried that the longer the tariff dispute goes on, the less likely those finished cars are to be sold, reported CBC News.

"If he (Trump) actually achieves shutting down production in Canada and Mexico, it doesn't mean he's going to get new production in the U.S.," Flavio Volpe, president of Canada's Automotive Parts Manufacturers' Association, was quoted as saying.

Volpe said he hopes Carney will announce further meetings with Trump: "I want to know that we've set a date for the next game."

Trump posted a statement on his Truth Social account minutes before Carney's arrival at the White House, denigrating the importance of Canada to the U.S. economy.

"We don't need their Cars, we don't need their Energy, we don't need their Lumber, we don't need ANYTHING they have. They, on the other hand, need EVERYTHING from us!" wrote Trump.

Speaking to the media in the Oval Office earlier on Tuesday, Trump said the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is a "transitional step" that "terminates fairly shortly," making no commitment to its renewal.

Carney said the agreement is the "basis for a broader negotiation," adding that parts of it may change and other elements might be added during a potential renegotiation.

Trump repeated annexation threats toward Canada, which he said would be a "wonderful marriage" and called the border between the two countries "artificial" again.

The president said it would be best for Canada as the "51st state" of the United States with a lot of advantage, tax cut and free military.

While Carney jumped in to say that Canada is "never for sale," Trump quipped, "Never say never, ... time will tell."

The United States has put in place a 25 percent tariff on all goods, and 10 percent on energy and potash that isn't covered by USMCA. There's another 25 percent tax on Canadian steel and aluminum, and 25 percent on automobiles that aren't covered by USMCA.

In response, Canada put in place its own 25 percent tariffs on non-USMCA compliant vehicles, and additional fees on nearly 60 billion Canadian dollars (43.6 billion U.S. dollars) in steel and aluminum products, as well as consumer goods including juice, spirits, computers, apparel and cosmetics.

With the implementation of the new tariffs in March, Canada's trade with the United States fell in March, said Statistics Canada on Tuesday.

Carney traveled to Washington on Monday, his first foreign trip since winning a minority Liberal government in last week's federal election. The prime minister said the trip would be the first in a series of discussions on tariffs, military cooperation and other issues with the United States.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Foreign Ministry responds to whether the US must lower tariffs before China agrees to participate in talks

Global Times

By Global Times Published: May 06, 2025 04:36 PM

In response to a question on how far China and the US are from formally initiating trade negotiations and whether China is willing to participate in negotiations only if the US lowers tariffs first, given that US President Donald Trump said in an interview with NBC that he will not drop tariffs to get China to negotiating table, Lin Jian, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said on Tuesday that this tariff war was launched by the US. China's position is consistent and clear: We will fight, if fight we must. Our doors are open, if the US wants to talk.

The US side recently keeps saying that it wants to negotiate with China. There are no winners in tariff and trade wars, and if the US side really wants to solve the problem through dialogue and negotiation, it should stop threatening and pressuring, and engage in dialogue with China on the basis of equality, respect and mutual benefit, Lin noted.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Chinese side and European Parliament agree to fully lift restrictions on exchanges, boosting bilateral ties: FM

Global Times

By Global Times Published: May 06, 2025 04:17 PM

Following mutual agreement, Chinese side and the European Parliament had decided to simultaneously and fully lift restrictions on exchanges between the two sides, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Tuesday.

In recent years, exchanges between the legislative bodies of China and Europe had experienced some setbacks due to well-known reasons. Under the current circumstances, both sides believed that it was very important to strengthen dialogue and cooperation. We believe and expect that, with the comprehensive resumption of exchanges between the legislative bodies of China and Europe, mutual communication and understanding would deepen, injecting new momentum into the sustained, healthy and stable development of China-Europe relations, said Lin.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Chinese vice premier to meet with US official on economic and trade affairs in Switzerland: FM

Global Times

By Global Times Published: May 07, 2025 06:57 AM

At the invitation of the government of Switzerland, from May 9 to 12, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council He Lifeng will visit Switzerland. He will hold talks with Swiss leaders and relevant parties. During his visit to Switzerland, Vice Premier He, as the Chinese lead person for China-U.S. economic and trade affairs, will have a meeting with the U.S. lead person Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. From May 12 to 16, Vice Premier He will be in France to co-chair with the French side the 10th China-France High Level Economic and Financial Dialogue, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson announced on Wednesday.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






He Lifeng to travel to Switzerland and France, have a high level meeting with the US on economic and trade affairs and co-Chair the 10th China-France High Level Economic and Financial Dialogue

Global Times

By fmprc.gov.cn Published: May 07, 2025 06:44 AM

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson announces:

At the invitation of the government of Switzerland, from May 9 to 12, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council He Lifeng will visit Switzerland. He will hold talks with Swiss leaders and relevant parties. During his visit to Switzerland, Vice Premier He, as the Chinese lead person for China-U.S. economic and trade affairs, will have a meeting with the U.S. lead person Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. From May 12 to 16, Vice Premier He will be in France to co-chair with the French side the 10th China-France High Level Economic and Financial Dialogue.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Change of government Election of the Federal Chancellor and formation of government

Germany - Federal Government

The Bundestag is electing a new Federal Chancellor on 6 May. The proposed candidate is Friedrich Merz. Following the election, the Federal Ministers will be appointed and sworn in. Here's an overview of the proceedings.

Tuesday, 6 May 2025

An important event on the political calendar in Berlin is scheduled for 6 May: the Bundestag is electing a new Federal Chancellor. The election of the Federal Chancellor is the first step towards forming a new Federal Government. The sequence of the day's events is structured very clearly.

Formation of government

Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has proposed Friedrich Merz to the Bundestag as a candidate for the chancellorship. On Tuesday morning the Federal Chancellor will be elected by the Bundestag without prior debate. In the first round of voting the candidate for the chancellorship must receive an absolute majority of votes from the members of the Bundestag, which is referred to as the "Chancellor's majority".

What is the procedure of the election in the Bundestag? What type of majority is needed for the Federal Chancellor to be elected? The exact procedure is specified in the Basic Law. The election of the Federal Chancellor in a nutshell:

Following election, the Federal Chancellor is officially appointed to the office by the Federal President at Bellevue Palace. The next step is for them to take their oath of office before the Bundestag.

The new Federal Chancellor will then suggest the Federal Ministers. These are also appointed by the Federal President and sworn in in the Bundestag.

Olaf Scholz will then hand over the official duties to the newly elected Federal Chancellor at the Chancellery. A new Government Spokesperson is also appointed along with the new Federal Government.

The new Federal Cabinet starts work in the early evening: the first constituent session chaired by the Federal Chancellor will take place in the Chancellery.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Pezeshkian and Putin reaffirm commitment to Iran-Russia strategic partnership treaty

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

May 6, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- President Masoud Pezeshkian and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the comprehensive strategic partnership agreement between Tehran and Moscow.

During a telephone conversation on Tuesday, Pezeshkian and Putin discussed bilateral relations as well as the latest regional and international developments.

They expressed satisfaction with the constructive and friendly ties between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Russian Federation.

Both leaders positively assessed progress in joint cooperation and projects, particularly in monetary and banking affairs, rail and road transportation, and energy.

The signing of the comprehensive strategic partnership agreement was highlighted as a significant milestone in strengthening political, economic, commercial, and security cooperation between Tehran and Moscow. Both sides emphasized their determination and commitment to fully implement the agreement.

Pezeshkian and Putin signed the Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership on January 17. Designed to govern bilateral relations for the next 20 years, the treaty aims to expand economic cooperation, mitigate the impact of U.S. sanctions, and strengthen military and political partnerships.

At the start of the conversation, the Russian president also offered his condolences over a deadly explosion at Shahid Rajaee Port in southern Iran last month.

In response, President Pezeshkian thanked Russia for the assistance provided during the firefighting efforts following the incident.

President Putin also expressed his hope for the success of ongoing indirect nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States, saying that Russia is prepared to provide technical assistance in this matter.

3266**4353

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran's redlines in talks with U.S. are clear: Administration spokesperson

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

May 6, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- Fatemeh Mohajerani, the spokesperson of the administration, says that Iran's redlines in indirect talks with the United States are firm and clear, and that Tehran will only engage in negotiations regarding nuclear issues.

During a weekly press briefing in Tehran on Tuesday, Mohajerani said that the Islamic Republic's redlines have remained unchanged for the past 20 years, and that Iran has never deviated from them. Iran asserted that nuclear energy is essential for peaceful applications, and that the Iranian nation has the right to acquire it.

Iran demonstrated its commitment to diplomacy through multiple rounds of talks, she said, adding that the other side must adopt stable positions.

She reaffirmed that Iran has no objections with continuing the negotiations and because Oman mediates these indirect talks, Tehran is waiting for the neighboring country's foreign minister to schedule the next round.

Regarding the United States' embargo on Iran, Mohajerani described the unilateral sanctions as illegal, arbitrary, and contrary to international law, categorizing them as examples of economic terrorism and violations of human rights.

Furthermore, she addressed the administration's response to the Shahid Rajaee Port incident, saying that a committee has been established to investigate the explosion's causes, prevent similar accidents, and ensure that the rights of affected individuals are upheld.

On the topic of energy imbalances and power outages across the country, the spokesperson apologized to the Iranian people and highlighted the administration's efforts to increase generation capacity in both thermal and renewable energy sectors to address the issue.

4208**9417

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran has world-class military prowess: Navy commander

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

May 6, 2025

Nowshahr, IRNA -- Navy Commander Rear Admiral Shahram Irani has hailed the Islamic Republic's military strength, especially its navy, attributing the power to the dedication of teachers and instructors.

Speaking at the Teacher's Day commemoration ceremony at Imam Khomeini Maritime University in Nowshahr on Tuesday morning, Rear Admiral Irani acknowledged the individuals who have contributed to the development of Iran's naval forces. He stated that if Iran is regarded as a 'world-class naval power' today, it is thanks to teachers and instructors.

The commander stressed on "faith and hope," saying that these two concepts, which were emphasized by Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, should be the focus of all of our works.

Touching on the subject of deterrence, he said that Iranian youth would stand against the Great Satan - an epitaph given to the U.S. by the founder of the Islamic Republic, Imam Khomeini - even with a small boat today, just as they have previously resisted hundreds of enemy missiles using only two of their own.

The admiral said that the enemies should know that Iranian youth are demonstrating their strength in the seas and maintaining the country's deterrence power.

4399**9417

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Araqchi: Reaching an agreement with Iran needs avoiding unrealistic and irrational positions

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

May 6, 2025

Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has stressed that reaching an agreement with Iran requires avoiding unrealistic and illogical positions.

Araqchi made the remarkd in a telephone phone conversation with the EU high representative for foreign and security policy, Kaja Kallas, on Monday.

Araqchi informed Kallas of the latest developments regarding indirect talks between Iran and the United States.

He also said that Tehran is ready for talks with major European powers to resolve their concerns over the possibility of Iran acquiring nuclear weapons.

Araqchi said Iran is ready to continue interactions with thr European parties, both within the framework of the European Union and the three European countries.

He expressed hope that Iran and the three European countries would resume talks based on a constructive approach free from political spite.

The top Iranian negotiator said the country has chosen a responsible approach in following the path of diplomacy to address the artificial concerns surrounding its peaceful nuclear program, stressing the need to pursue the path through serious will and realism.

If it is claimed that the possibility of Iran acquiring nuclear weapons is the sole concern of the sides in the negotiations, "this concern can be eased", Araqchi said.

"It is quite possible to reach an agreement in this regard but it requires avoidance of unrealistic and irrational positions," he said.

2050

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






A federal jury in California found that the NSO Group, the Israeli creators behind the Pegasus spyware, are liable for the attacks against thousands of WhatsApp users. NSO Group must now pay Meta a sum of $167.25 million as result.

The decision was recently made official following an almost six-year lawsuit brought upon by Meta against the NSO Group for massive privacy and security violations.

This follows the discovery of the critical vulnerability dating back to 2019 which allowed the NSO Group to take advantage of it and install their Pegasus spyware to eavesdrop on calls.

NSO Group Must Pay Meta Over $167M

After it was ruled over six months ago that the NSO Group is liable for Pegasus spyware's attack against 1,400 WhatsApp users, a federal jury has now decided to make the Israeli company pay, literally.

In their latest decision, it came down to a $167.25 million fine against the NSO Group which must be paid to Meta.

Meta's latest blog post details its six-year fight against the NSO Group that compromised thousands of WhatsApp users, claiming this to be the "first victory" against the development and use of illegal spyware.

It is known that users did not even have to answer a call to be victimized by the Pegasus spyware, with the technology only needing to place a call before gaining access to a user device's microphone, camera, and access emails, text messages, and location.

Meta acknowledged their work with Citizen Lab in discovering the vulnerability on WhatsApp and how the NSO Group's Pegasus spyware took advantage of it, with the company claiming that this win is a "critical deterrent to this malicious industry."

NSO Group's Infamous Spyware

The Israeli-based NSO Group has operated its company to bring spyware to those that need it, and it has since faced controversy for its technology's capabilities to invade privacy and access sensitive information.

In the case of the attack on WhatsApp, Meta revealed that US officials as well as allies were also victimized by this.

Almost four years ago, the US Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security added the NSO Group as part of the so-called "Entity List," which includes other companies that are considered as a national security threat. Essentially, this is a blacklist for companies that are regarded to be significant risk to national security and foreign policy interests of the country.

Moreover, the NSO Group also saw another American company file a lawsuit against them for alleged security violations as Apple also went against the infamous firm. In Apple's case, it alleged that the NSO Group deployed a zero-click exploit called "ForcedEntry" against iPhones, and this allowed their technologies and those that brought them to remotely access devices.
Telephone conversation with President of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian

Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian.

May 6, 2025

13:20

Vladimir Putin has once again offered sincere condolences over the loss of life as a result of a deadly explosion at the Port of Shahid Rajaee on April 26, 2025. In turn, Masoud Pezeshkian thanked the Russian side for providing prompt emergency assistance following the accident, praising the high professionalism of the Russian Emergencies Ministry specialists.

The President of Iran extended warm greetings to Vladimir Putin and all citizens of Russia for the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War.

The leaders had a thorough discussion of issues pertaining to further development of Russian-Iranian cooperation based on the bilateral Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, signed during the Iranian President's official visit to Russia on January 17. Special attention was paid to the expansion of mutually beneficial ties in trade and the economy, including via the implementation of major joint projects in transport and energy.

The presidents exchanged views on pressing international and regional issues, including the progress of Iran-US talks on the Iranian nuclear programme, proceeding under the mediation of Oman. The Russian side reiterated its willingness to facilitate this dialogue with a view to reaching a fair agreement based on the principles of international law.

The presidents agreed to step up joint efforts aimed at comprehensively strengthening practical cooperation and foreign policy coordination between Russia and Iran.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran-US talks 'positive'; efforts underway to hold 4th round this weekend: Trump's envoy Witkoff

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 May 2025 6:50 AM

US President Donald Trump's regional envoy has called the indirect talks with Iran "positive," saying efforts are underway to take the process into another round this weekend.

Speaking in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, Steve Witkoff said, "We are making some progress."

"I hope it is moving in the right direction. The president wants to see this solved diplomatically if possible, so we're doing everything we can to get it going."

The official further indicated that the talks, which began with Omani mediation in Muscat and then in Rome, could be extended for a fourth round.

The fourth round had initially been scheduled for May 3 in the Italian capital. But, it was postponed.

Witkoff said any delay in the apparent underway push to continue the process would be due to Trump's upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar next week.

He, however, added that "Iran will not have a nuclear weapon," an assertion that has been reiterated by the US and its allies for long in contradiction to the Islamic Republic's repeated avowal not to either pursue, develop, or stockpile such weaponry as per moral and religious imperatives.

Tehran's peaceful nuclear policy has been verified unexceptionally by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) that has never found any indication of such pursuit, as it has put the country's nuclear activities under the most extensive investigative processes compared to any other member of the United Nations nuclear agency.

Besides sticking to the unsubstantiated claim, Washington and some of its allies have, especially under Trump, been also occasionally insisting on "total dismantlement" of the Iranian nuclear energy program. The insistence was last made by Trump, himself, during comments on the NBC's "Meet the Press" program.

Iran, however, has outlined enriching uranium on its own soil and removal of the US's illegal, unilateral, and oppressive sanctions as non-negotiable principles that it would invariably adhere to during the talks.

The Islamic Republic has also roundly rejected the notion of allowing the diplomatic process to take other issues, such as its defensive might and regional influence, into consideration.

Nevertheless, both sides have so far described their talks as generally productive, including the last round, which was billed as a "constructive" process.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran vows swift response to any act of military adventurism by US or proxy

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 May 2025 1:32 AM

Iran has categorically condemned the latest threats posed by the United States and Israel over Yemen's missile strike on the occupied territories, vowing to defend its sovereignty against any threat or use of force.

Iran's permanent UN ambassador made the comment on Monday in a letter to the UN chief and the Security Council's president.

Amir Saeid Iravani said any act of military adventurism by the US or its proxy, the Israeli regime, will be met with a swift, proportionate, and lawful response.

He added that the US and Israel will bear full responsibility for all consequences of any such unlawful and reckless aggression.

Iravani said such inflammatory and belligerent rhetoric against a UN member state constitutes a clear and grave violation of the basic principles of international law.

He also slammed the US and its allies for militarizing the Red Sea and launching unlawful military operations against Yemen.

Following Yemen's missile strike on Israel's Ben Gurion airport, the regime's prime minister and US secretary of defense attributed the attack to Iran, threatening that Tehran will face consequences.

On Monday night, dozens of Israeli warplanes carried out airstrikes on targets in Yemen.

Israel launched 50 airstrikes on the port city of Hudaydah and a cement factory to the east.

A senior US official confirmed that the aerial raids were being carried out in close coordination with the US, Israel's biggest benefactor and a complicit in the ongoing brutal military campaign in Gaza.

Yemen's al-Masirah television channel reported the US had launched 35 strikes since May 4 and targeted several Yemeni provinces, including al-Jawf and Marib.

Since March, the US, along with Britain and Israel, has launched daily airstrikes on Yemen and claims to have struck more than 1,000 targets in the Arab country.

Following is the full text of Ambassador Iravani's letter to the UN:

In the Name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful

Excellency,

Upon instructions from my Government, I wish to draw your attention, and that of the members of the Security Council, to yet another flagrant violation of international law committed by the Israeli regime.

On Sunday, 4 May 2025, in a public statement, the Prime Minister of the Israeli regime, Benjamin Netanyahu, repeated baseless allegations by falsely attributing to the Islamic Republic of Iran the actions of the Yemeni people in response to the atrocities committed in occupied Palestine.

In the same statement, the Prime Minister of Israel explicitly threatened the Islamic Republic of Iran, declaring that Israel would retaliate not only against Yemen but also against what he referred to as "Iranian terror masters."

Regrettably, this reckless threat was also made by the United States Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, who, on Wednesday, 30 April 2025, similarly stated that Iran would "face consequences" for allegedly supporting Yemen's Ansarullah actions, also known as the Houthis.

In this regard, I wish to emphasize the position of the Islamic Republic of Iran as follows:

The Islamic Republic of Iran categorically rejects and strongly condemns these accusations and threats as unfounded, provocative, and politically motivated.

Such inflammatory and belligerent rhetoric, openly threatening the use of force against a sovereign Member State of the United Nations, constitutes a clear and grave violation of the basic principle of international law and the Charter of the United Nations, in particular Article 2(4), and represents a direct threat to international peace and security.

As has been repeatedly said, the actions of the Yemeni people are independent decisions undertaken in the exercise of their sovereign right to resist aggressions against violations of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Yemen as well as to demonstrate solidarity with the Palestinian people, who are enduring relentless and unlawful assault.

Any attempt to attribute these legitimate actions to the Islamic Republic of Iran is a deliberate misrepresentation and desperate effort intended to deviate the attention of the international community from the root causes of the situation in the region, namely the ongoing grave crimes being perpetrated by the Israeli regime in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity, and the relentless acts of aggression committed by the U.S. against Yemen.

Recalling the dangerous consequences and implications of the continued military aggressions against the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Yemen for the security and stability of the Red Sea and the whole region, the Islamic Republic of Iran has consistently called for an end to the genocide and war crime in occupied Palestine as the root cause of ongoing insecurity and instability throughout the region.

The Islamic Republic of Iran, while reaffirming its principled position on the necessity of respecting the territorial integrity and national sovereignty of countries, condemns the U.S. military attacks on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Yemen.

It is not Iran, but rather the United States and its allies, who have militarized the Red Sea and widened the regional conflict by launching unlawful military operations against Yemen.

These attacks and acts of aggression, which have targeted civilian infrastructure, are in egregious violation of the United Nations Charter and international law, in particular international humanitarian law, and endanger the peace and stability in Yemen and the region.

In light of these grave violations and their dangerous implications, the Islamic Republic of Iran calls upon the United Nations Security Council to fulfill its primary responsibility under the Charter to maintain international peace and security. The Security Council must not remain silent and, rather, it must unequivocally condemn the threatening and warmongering statements made by the officials of the Israeli regime and the United States and demand they cease their unlawful threats and fully respect their international obligations.

The Islamic Republic of Iran remains steadfast in its commitment to regional peace, stability. It does not seek confrontation or escalation. Nevertheless, Iran underscores its inherent right, in accordance with international law and the UN Charter, to defend its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national interests against any unlawful threat or use of force. Any act of military adventurism by the United States or its proxy, the Israeli regime, whether targeting Iran's sovereignty, territorial integrity, or its national and vital interests, will be met with a swift, proportionate, and lawful response. The United States and the Israeli regime will bear full and unequivocal responsibility for all consequences arising from any such unlawful and reckless aggression.

I should be grateful if you would circulate the present letter as a document of the Security Council.

Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.



NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






PM Netanyahu Speaks with Russian President Vladimir Putin

Israel - Prime Minister's Office

Media Statements

The 37th Government

06.05.2025

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, this evening , spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The two leaders exchanged warm greetings on the 80th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.

The Prime Minister emphasized the contribution of the Red Army to the victory over the Nazis and stressed the role of the many Jewish commanders and fighters in the war.

Prime Minister Netanyahu and Russian President Putin also discussed regional developments.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Myanmar junta extends post-quake ceasefire despite repeatedly violating it

Junta airstrikes have killed nearly 300 people since the ceasefire began, the exiled civilian government said.

By RFA Burmese 2025.05.06 -- Myanmar's military junta on Tuesday extended a post-quake ceasefire that critics say exists in name only amid a floundering effort to help disaster victims.

The junta, which seized power in a 2021 coup and is at war with dozens of resistance groups nationwide, initially declared a ceasefire from April 2-30 following the Mar. 28 earthquake. The magnitude 7.7 quake devastated the central Sagaing and Mandalay regions and killed more than 3,700 people.

The military government said the ceasefire was extended until the end of May, allowing time to "rebuild [from] earthquake damage and to develop the country's economy and stability."

The junta, however, also warned it would "take action" against armed groups that instigate battles against the military.

Aung Thu Nyein, a member of the Institute for Strategic Policy Myanmar, said the ceasefire is largely symbolic and the junta's attempt to deflect criticism from its Southeast Asian neighbors and other countries.

'They're just saving face for international relations. They still need help to rebuild Myanmar," he said.

Myanmar's junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, visited Bangkok in mid-April, a rare foreign trip that allowed him to meet Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, the current chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

Discussions centered on humanitarian assistance. Anwar emphasized the importance of extending the ceasefire to facilitate aid deliveries and restore normalcy.

Critics argue that such meetings risk legitimizing the junta, which has continued military operations despite its ceasefire announcements.

ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights expressed concern that engaging with the junta without demanding tangible progress towards ending violence or restoring democracy sends a dangerous signal.

Backlash from the exiled civilian government

The ceasefire extension was criticized by Myanmar's exiled civilian National Unity Government, or NUG, who accuse the junta of continuing aerial and heavy artillery attacks.

According to the NUG, junta forces conducted 282 airstrikes between March 28 and May 4, resulting in 276 civilian deaths and 456 injuries - including 31 children killed and 45 injured.

Sagaing region, the epicenter of the 7.7 quake and also of rebel activity, has received the heaviest blows, with some 73 airstrikes killing 89 people and injuring 135, said the NUG.

Mandalay has also been hit hard by both the natural disaster and junta.

A resistance group, the Ta'ang National Liberation army, and allied militias said they won't give up newly acquired territories despite pressure from China and the junta. Some 61 airstrikes have killed 65 people and injured 118.

Meanwhile, the Three Brotherhood Alliance, comprised of the Arakan Army, Ta'ang National Liberation Army and Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, also announced a ceasefire throughout May.

Translated by Kiana Duncan. Edited by Taejun Kang and Stephen Wright.

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 May 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.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






The Honourable Prime Minister of Pakistan, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Defence Minister, and the Services Chiefs, visited the Headquarters of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI)

Prime Miinister's Office - Islamic Republic of Pakistan

May 06, 2025



Islamabad, 6 May 2025

The Honourable Prime Minister of Pakistan, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Defence Minister, and the Services Chiefs, visited the Headquarters of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) today.

The visit entailed a detailed briefing on the prevailing security environment, with a particular focus on preparedness for conventional threat in the light of India's increasingly aggressive and provocative posture along Pakistan's Eastern border. The leadership was apprised of regional security developments and the evolving threat matrix, including conventional military options, hybrid warfare tactics, and terrorist proxies.

The Prime Minister and accompanying dignitaries underscored the imperative of heightened national vigilance, seamless inter-agency coordination, and reinforced operational readiness to deter and decisively respond to any violation of Pakistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Commending the Agency's professionalism and strategic acumen, the Prime Minister lauded its critical role in safeguarding national interests and enabling informed national security decision-making under complex and dynamic conditions.

The PM said that entire nation is behind our brave Armed Forces. "Pakistan Army is one of the most professional and disciplined force in the world".

The leadership reaffirmed Pakistan's unambiguous resolve to defend the homeland against all threatsconventional or otherwise and reiterated that with Nation's full support, the Armed Forces, supported by all other elements of national power and state institutions, remain fully prepared to uphold Pakistan's security, prestige and honour under all circumstances.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Seven Pakistani soldiers killed in Balochistan

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

May 7, 2025

Islamabad, IRNA -- The Pakistani army announced that seven of its soldiers were killed in an attack by separatist terrorist elements in the province of Balochistan.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack on army forces in Balochistan in a message and stressed Pakistan's strong fight against terrorism.

The Pakistani sources announced that Tuesday's attack was carried out by elements affiliated with the separatist group Baloch Liberation Army.

In this attack, an army vehicle was targeted in the Mach area of Balochistan.

2050

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Comment by Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna on the European Commission's proposal to end Russian energy imports by 2027

Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

06.05.2025

Today 6 May, the European Commission published the RePowerEU Roadmap, which aims to end imports of Russian energy carriers into the European Union by 2027. The Commission's proposal sends a clear message: the aggressor state has no business on the European Union's energy markets.

We commend the European Commission for its Roadmap, as moving away from Russian energy imports will not only help to strengthen the European Union's energy security and reduce dependencies, but will also prevent Russia from influencing energy prices in Europe and thereby harming our economy.

Revenues from energy exports, which account for nearly a third of Russia's state budget, are used both to feed the war machine in Ukraine and to finance the military for a long-term confrontation with the West. Russia has also repeatedly manipulated energy prices in an attempt to create divisions between Western countries. The RePowerEU initiative is an important step towards ending Russian fossil fuel imports altogether. In addition to contributing the European Union's climate goals, it is also a clear and decisive condemnation of the actions of the aggressor state. Estonia is now looking forward to the implementation of the proposals of the action plan.

Since the beginning of the full-scale war in Ukraine, Estonia has called on like-minded countries to stop importing Russian energy as quickly as possible. Immediately after the start of the war of aggression in Ukraine, Estonia stopped buying Russian gas, and as of January 2023, the import of Russian gas into Estonia is prohibited by a national sanction. With the synchronisation of electricity grids completed in February this year, Estonia's dependence on Russian energy carriers came to an end.

The European Union has taken forceful action in recent years to reduce its dependence on Russian energy. Whereas in 2021, the share of Russia's gas in the EU's imports stood at 45%, it has fallen to 13% today. Moreover, sanctions have put an end to imports of Russian coal and crude oil and petroleum products. However, despite the full-scale war in Ukraine, imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russia to the EU have increased over the last few years.

The RePowerEU Roadmap includes a wide range of measures on gas, oil and nuclear energy. Additionally, the Roadmap proposes banning Russian gas deliveries under existing short-term gas purchase agreements and prohibiting the signing of new contracts, including a ban on long-term gas purchase agreements. The action plan also restricts the import of Russian nuclear fuel by implementing trade policy measures. It also outlines how member states should address the activities of the shadow fleet. The European Commission will present legislative proposals in June this year, after which negotiations between member states will start.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Press remarks by Commissioner Jrgensen on the Commission's roadmap towards ending Russian energy imports

European Commission

Speech

May 6, 2025

Strasbourg

"Check against delivery"

Today the European Union sends a very clear message to Russia:

No More.

No more - will we permit Russia to weaponise energy against us.

No more - will we allow our member states to be blackmailed.

No more - will we indirectly help fill up the war chest in Kremlin.

Since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022 the EU has worked hard to stop all import of Russian energy.

We have done that for two good reasons: to secure our independence of Russia and to cease indirectly supporting the Russian war-economy.

On imports of coal. Before 2022, half of the coal we used in the EU was from Russia. This we have stopped completely.

On oil, we have gone from 26% to 3% of our oil being from Russia.

And finally gas. We have gone from 45% of our gas coming from Russia in 2022 to 13% today.

So, we have come far. But not far enough.

Last year we in the EU paid 23 billion to Russia for our energy imports. That is 1.8 billion per month. This needs to stop. For that reason - today - the Commission has adopted a roadmap that will finish the job.

It will be a stepwise and gradual approach, so as to minimise impact on the EU Member States affected, whilst also acting fast and resolute.

Next month we take unparalleled actions and table a package of legislative proposals:

We will introduce new rules on transparency, monitoring and traceability of Russian gas.

We ask Member states to make mandatory national plans for phasing out Russian gas, nuclear fuel and oil. These plans need to be ready by the end of this year.

We ban all imports of Russian gas under new contracts and existing spot contracts taking effect as of the end of this year.

We ban remaining imports of Russian pipeline gas and LNG under existing long-term contracts by the end 2027.

Also to address the illegal oil entering the market via Russia's "shadow fleet" we tighten the grip.

We will work, together with the High Representative, on the deployment of an EU Common Security and Defense Policy missions, that shall conduct surveillance, monitor maritime activities to identify suspicious vessels or behaviors and deter illegal maritime activities.

Apart from fossil fuels we also plan to take action against the import of nuclear fuels. This means:

We will introduce new restrictions to phase out Russian imports of uranium, enriched uranium and other nuclear materials as well as introduce obligations to be transparent and diversify supplies.

We will make Russian fuels economically unattractive and strengthen our European union nuclear fuel supply chain.

There will be no new approvals for contracts with Russian suppliers co-signed by the Euratom Supply Agency.

To safeguard security of supply this will be a gradual approach, as soon as possible.

So, today is an important day.

Russia is a threat to all of us. Therefore, we must act. And therefore, we take these new significant steps against Russia. Important actions to secure our own independence in solidarity with Ukraine.

Already at the end of this year all member states will put forward concrete plans on how to stop imports of Russian energy. New gas contracts and existing spot market contracts will be banned already this year. And thereby eliminating one third of today's imports from Russia.

By the end of 2027 we will be completely free from Russian gas.

This is not a small thing. This is not without challenges. But it can be done, and we will deliver in a gradual, coordinated way. Supporting member states where and when it is necessary.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






NATO, EU Prepare West for Direct War Against Russia - Shoigu

Sputnik News

20250506

NATO and the European Union have launched programs aimed at preparing the collective West for a direct military conflict with Russia, Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu said.

"Incited and patronized by London and Paris, the European elites continue to make loud statements about the need to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia," Shoigu said in his article "On the Importance of the Lessons of the Great Patriotic War for Ensuring National Security in Modern Geopolitical Conditions" for the Rossiyskaya Gazeta newspaper.

"But not only that. Accompanied by this annoying hype, NATO and the European Union have launched programs aimed at preparing the collective West for a direct military conflict with Russia. These aggressive steps, as well as NATO's continuing advance to the east, to Russia's borders, are justified by Russophobic fabrications in the best traditions of Goebbels' propaganda," Shoigu added.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






We have seen before how AI helps police in solving murder crimes, but we haven't seen the technology speak in place of a victim. According to a recent report, artificial intelligence was employed to create a digital version of a murder victim so he could address his killer in person at sentencing.

The moving courtroom drama was played out in Chandler, Arizona, in what's believed to be the first AI-created victim impact statement on record worldwide.

Christopher Pelkey, who was killed in a road rage shooting four years ago, appeared through an AI avatar in court. The virtual version of Pelkey, created using actual video footage and AI software, had a poignant message for his murderer, Gabriel Horcasitas.

AI-Driven Victim Statement Sends Forgiveness Message

The AI reconstruction wasn't merely a technological achievement; it had an emotional impact. In the courtroom video, Pelkey's image says:

"To Gabriel Horcasitas, the man who shot meit is a shame we encountered each other that day in those circumstances. In another life, we probably could've been friends."

Chris Pelkey died in Nov. 2021 in a road rage shooting.



Recently, Chris' family created an AI-generated video of him giving his own victim impact statement.



Here is a clip - watch the full story tonight ONLY on @FOX10Phoenix  pic.twitter.com/JIz6bKuNfU  Nicole Krasean (@NicoleK_Fox10) May 5, 2025

The murder victim went on with words that brought the courtroom to tears when he said that he believed in forgiveness and in God, who forgives.

The remark moved Judge Todd Lang, who commended the creativity and appreciated what the AI has done. He also praised the ingenuity of the statement, which resonated with everyone in the hearing.

After hearing the presentation, Horcasitas was sentenced to 10 and a half years for manslaughter.

Sister's Idea Transforms Grief Into Innovation

According to Digital Trends, the plan to employ AI in the trial was conceived by Christopher Pelkey's sister, Stacey, who felt an obligation to allow her brother to have a say in court.

Stacey said that it was "crucial" not to make Chris speak about what she felt. She added that even though his brother could not say those words, she was able to relay what he would have said when he was alive.

Arizona Courts Explore Responsible AI Use in Legal System

AI has been useful for investigators. In 2019, an AI facial recognition software helped the authorities catch a murder suspect who killed his girlfriend. The software caught the killer trying to scan the victim's face so he could apply for a loan.

The powerful use of AI in Pelkey's case sounds unbelievable, but indeed, it happened. However, Ann A. Scott Timmer, Chief Justice of the Arizona Supreme Court, acknowledged AI's usefulness in streamlining the justice process but also warned of risks.

She said that AI can prevent or even reverse justice if used irresponsibly.

In response to increasing interest and concerns, Arizona's Supreme Court has established a special AI committee to establish responsible use guidelines and guarantee proper, ethical uses in future proceedings.
UN investigators take on 'titanic' task of finding Syria's missing

6 May 2025 - As Syria emerges from over a decade of brutal conflict, a new chapter is beginning in the search for the tens of thousands who went missing during more than 50 years of dictatorship.

For the first time since it was established in 2023, investigators from the UN Independent Institution on Missing Persons (IIMP) has been able to access Syria, following the fall of the Assad regime in December last year.

In an exclusive interview with UN News, the head of the General Assembly-mandated body, Karla Quintana, described her moving encounters with family members crying out for justice - and the importance of accessing infamous sites of imprisonment and torture, in search of the truth.

"The scale is overwhelming...everyone knows someone who is missing," she says, outlining the hopes, challenges and urgent need to find closure for a Syria in transition.

This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

UN News: You have mentioned a hopeful new reality in Syria that could help in the search for missing persons. Can you elaborate?

Karla Quintana: Of course. In June 2023, the General Assembly created the Independent Institution on Missing Persons thanks to the relentless efforts of the families. Back then we did not have access to enter Syria and look for their missing ones.

We expected to work primarily with families in the diaspora. After 8 December [the fall of the Assad regime], there is a new window of hope and of opportunity for the families, for Syrian society and for us to work in Syria - work with civil society, the interim authorities and of course with the families of the missing.

Now we have access to Syria, and we are building with the families, with civil society, and interim authorities, a response to look for the tens of thousands of persons who went missing in Syria in not only the last 14 years, but almost 50 years.

UN News: During your last visit, you met with Syrian authorities and families of the missing. What were the key points discussed?

Ms. Quintana: So far, we have been in Damascus, and we were finally able to speak directly with families inside Syria.

We met with many women, especially those who are looking for their missing loved ones. We spoke with people who had never spoken to anyone about their loved ones. We gathered testimonies in areas that had never been reached before.

We also began engaging with the interim authorities to build a collective, Syrian-led and internationally supported response. We have now in front of us a huge path that we have to walk together with all Syrians, and with us supporting their lead.

UN News: You also visited areas like Dariya, Tadamon, and Subnaia Prison. What did you take away from these visits?

Ms. Quintana: Field visits are crucial. Before I talk about Tadamon or Subnaia or Dariya, I want to say that when we were in the field, the people with met and people we spoke with, literally - and this is literally - everyone knows someone who is missing in Syria.

When we took cabs, when we were in restaurants, when we were walking in the streets, people would come to us to tell us their stories. It is important to understand the scale of the crisis. We know Syrians are looking for tens of thousands of missing persons, but we do not know for sure how many.

In places like Tadamon, Subnaia Prison and Dariya, we saw firsthand the destruction, the desolation. These are places where so many were tortured, murdered and of course, where many people went missing.

This is only the tip of the iceberg and there is a lot of work ahead, in coordination with national and international stakeholders.

UN News: How can the international community support your mission and help advance the search for missing persons in Syria?

Ms. Quintana: We expect to continue to receive their support as we have so far. I also want to emphasize their help in establishing the IIMP, and the efforts of the families of the missing.

We still need their support in this process that is just starting. We are asking the interim authorities to establish an office in Syria, to help us work closer to the field. We will also need the international community's support - not only financial support, but also technological support, scientific support and political support.

I must underscore that this process must be locally owned and internationally supported. We will provide technical and scientific support to national actors. It is not only the authorities but also the civil society and Syrian families to look for their loved ones.

UN News: What are the biggest challenges you face in finding the missing and delivering justice?

Ms. Quintana: The mission before us is titanic, it is enormous. We still do not know the full number of missing persons - it could be tens of thousands or more. A major challenge is resources, as is the case globally. But we also have the big challenge of information sharing.

When looking for the missing, information is critical. We need to have the information, process it, share it and we need to interconnect it, to be able to start looking.

It is important to stress here that when we talk about the missing in Syria, we are talking about everyone. We are looking for everyone who is missing, regardless of their nationality, religion or the reason they went missing or who took them.

This is an opportunity, not only for the UN, but for the whole international community to unite - bring our experiences, our resources - and to prove to the world that we can work together and help Syrians and the Syrian interim authorities to bring some answers and bring some truth to the families of the missing that have been waiting years for answers.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






At least 5,000 more reservists to participate in Han Kuang drills: MND

ROC Central News Agency

05/06/2025 05:33 PM

Taipei, May 6 (CNA) Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) said Tuesday it will increase the number of reservists called up to its largest annual drills by over 5,000, in line with its policy goal to boost the combat readiness of the country's reserve force.

Last year's Tung Hsin manpower mobilization exercise saw the participation of 14,647 reservists and active-duty service members, an increase of 2,032 from a year earlier, Chou Chin-lung (), deputy head of the MND's Inspector General's Office said at a news conference.

The number of reservists mobilized for this year's Tung Hsin exercise will be further increased, Chou said.

The Tung Hsin exercise is held concurrently with the Han Kuang military exercises to test reservists' ability to swiftly assemble into a fighting force or provide assistance to police, first responders, or civil defense teams. This year's Han Kuang exercises will be held from July 9-18, according to the MND.

Hsia Chen-kuo (), deputy head of the All-Out Defense Mobilization Agency's Mobilization Management Division, said more than 20,000 reservists will be mobilized in the Tung Hsin exercise, meaning there will be at least 5,000 more reservists engaging in the drill this year.

Reservists participating in the drill will be trained to fire pistols and rifles in standing, kneeling, and prone positions to help them become familiar with real-world combat scenarios, Hsia noted.

The higher number of reservists set to be mobilized in the drill is partly due to an increase in the members of regional reserve brigades, Hsia added.

Increasing the number of reservists participating in the drill is also consistent with the MND's policy goal of "transforming" the reserve force into a more combat-ready branch of the military, Chou said.

Among the MND's major policy goals are boosting the joint combat and training capabilities of the Army, the Navy and the Air Force, holding more realistic drills to better approximate battlefield situations, and strengthening cooperation between the Armed Forces and civilians, according to Chou.

Other major goals include achieving autonomy in national defense technologies, building a complete "national defense supply chain," expanding international collaborations and exchanges regarding defense affairs, and retaining high-caliber talent in the military, Chou said.

(By Wu Su-wei and Sean Lin)

Enditem/AW

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






President Lai addresses Taiwan dollar rise, reassures public on trade talks

ROC Central News Agency

05/06/2025 11:40 AM

Taipei, May 6 (CNA) President Lai Ching-te () reassured the public that recent rapid appreciation of the Taiwan dollar against the U.S. dollar was primarily caused by market speculation in conjunction with Taiwan-U.S. talks on tariffs, but his administration would safeguard national interests in negotiations.

In a recorded speech, Lai said on Monday he regrets that market rumors have prompted the public to dump U.S. dollars, rapidly pushing up the Taiwan dollar on Friday and Monday, with the local currency soaring 6.21 percent against the greenback in just two trading sessions.

Local news media cited analysts as saying that expected pressure from the United States to strengthen the Taiwan dollar largely dominated the market, as many Asian countries -- including Taiwan -- aim to reduce their large trade surpluses with Washington ahead of upcoming talks with the U.S.

Lai refuted the market rumor, saying that the latest round of bilateral trade talks did not involve currency issues.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Executive Yuan's Office of Trade Negotiation also stressed that the trade talks concluded on May 1 (U.S. time) in Washington D.C., the first in-person meeting on tariffs between both sides, did not include currency issues.

Taiwan's strong economic performance and healthy forecast were why the forex market expected stronger Taiwan dollar, Lai said, citing the latest GDP data, which showed robust growth of 5.37 percent in the first quarter of this year, following a 4.59 percent increase for all of 2024.

The president said the International Monetary Fund even raised its forecast for Taiwan's GDP growth from 2.7 percent to 2.9 percent for 2025, while downgrading its forecasts for neighboring economies such as Hong Kong, South Korea and Singapore.

Lai urged the people of Taiwan to remain confident in the local economy, even though the impact of a stronger Taiwan dollar may vary across industries.

Meanwhile, Lai said the large trade surplus Taiwan enjoys with the U.S. is not related to currency as it broadly reflects strong demand from American buyers for Taiwan-made high-tech gadgets such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence applications and information and communications devices.

The president said Taiwan is at a critical moment in terms of tariff talks with the U.S., adding when the government's negotiating team faces its American counterpart, Taiwanese negotiators are determined to safeguard the national interest, protect industrial development and not sacrifice any industry.

Although Taiwan was unable to isolate itself from the turbulence on global financial markets after Trump's April 2 tariff announcement, Lai said, the Taiex, the benchmark on the Taiwan Stock Exchange has recovered and returned to 20,000 points after plunging to 17,391.76 on April 9 as foreign institutional investors resumed their buying.

Lai emphasized Taiwan has never been named a currency manipulator by the U.S. so the tariff talks did not touch on the currency issue, urging people with bad intentions not to spread market rumors.

However, Taiwan was named a currency manipulator in 1988 and 1992, and as recently as 2024 was on a monitoring list of currency manipulation.

(By Yeh Su-ping and Frances Huang)

Enditem/AW

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






U.S. House passes bills on Taiwan engagement, int'l participation

ROC Central News Agency

05/06/2025 10:50 AM

Washington, May 5 (CNA) The U.S. House of Representatives on Monday passed two Taiwan-related bills aimed at easing limits on bilateral engagement and supporting Taiwan's participation in international organizations.

The first of the bills, the Taiwan Assurance Implementation Act, would require the State Department to conduct periodic reviews of its guidelines for U.S. engagement with Taiwan and Taiwanese officials.

It would also require the State Department to report to Congress every two years on the guidelines, and "identify opportunities to lift any remaining self-imposed limitations on U.S.-Taiwan engagement and articulate a plan to do so."

The legislation, which was introduced in February by Republican Ann Wagner and Democrats Gerry Connolly and Ted Lieu, was passed by a voice vote. It would need to be approved by the Senate and signed by the president to become law.

After severing ties with Taiwan, officially named the Republic of China (ROC), in 1979, Washington developed guidelines to limit official interactions with Taiwan to avoid angering the People's Republic of China (PRC), which sees Taiwan as part of its territory.

These guidelines have included banning senior American executive branch officials, including high-ranking military officers, from visiting Taiwan, while also blocking Taiwan's top leaders from traveling to the U.S.

Also, meetings between officials from the two sides have had to meet a list of requirements, such as being held at venues other than in official federal buildings or asking Taiwanese officials not to wear any official uniforms or insignia.

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo removed the guidelines in the final month of Donald Trump's first term as president, but many were later put back in place during the Joe Biden administration.

Taiwan International Solidarity Act

The second piece of legislation consists of amendments to the TAIPEI Act of 2019, which instructs the U.S. government to support Taiwan's membership in international organizations and encourage other countries to strengthen their official or unofficial ties to Taiwan.

The new bill, called the Taiwan International Solidarity Act, would add language to "clarify" that U.N. Resolution 2758 did not address the issue of the representation of Taiwan or its people in the United Nations or related organizations.

Approved in 1971, U.N. Resolution 2758 recognized the PRC as the only legitimate government of China, and expelled "the representatives of Chiang Kai-shek ()." Chiang was the then-leader of the ROC, which governs Taiwan.

The bill would also expand reporting requirements in the TAIPEI Act to include information on China's efforts to undermine Taiwan's international participation and its ties or relationships with other countries.

Versions of both the bills approved Monday were previously passed by the House in 2023 but were not taken up by the Senate, and thus had to be reintroduced after the new Congress was seated on Jan. 3.

(By Chung Yu-chen and Matthew Mazzetta)

Enditem/ls

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

ROC Ministry of National Defense

2025/05/06

PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

Date

6 a.m. May. 5 (Mon.) to 6 a.m. May. 6 (Tue.) (UTC+8)

PLA activities

16 sorties of PLA aircraft and 12 PLAN ships operating around Taiwan were detected as of 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 12 out of 16 sorties crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's northern, southwestern, and eastern ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and employed CAP aircraft, Navy ships, and coastal missile systems in response to detected activities.

1140506_PLA activities.jpg [Open a new window]

1140506_PLA air activities in the vicinity of Taiwan.jpg [Open a new window]

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






UK to Update Defense Plan to Prepare for Possible Attack on Country

Sputnik News

20250506

The UK government is working to update its 20-year-old defense plan to prepare for an attack by another state, including Russia, amid concerns that Britain is not ready for war, The Telegraph newspaper reported.

The updated version of the secret "homeland defense plan" will set out a strategy for the first days after an attack on the British mainland by a hostile foreign state, the report said on Monday, adding that the dossier will outline how the government should respond to a declaration of war, including using bunkers to protect the cabinet and the royal family, public broadcasting, and stockpiling resources.

The updated plan will include scenarios in which the UK is hit by non-nuclear missiles, nuclear warheads, or is subject to cyberattacks, the report noted.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly emphasized that Russia is not going to attack NATO countries, and that there is no point in it.

Putin noted that Western leaders regularly intimidate population of their countries with a purported Russian threat in order to distract attention from domestic problems. Smart people know perfectly well that this the Russian threat is a fake, Putin stressed.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






UK strengthens security relationship with Europe ahead of UK-EU summit

Foreign Secretary heads to EU Foreign Ministers meeting to highlight the need for a new, ambitious security relationship.

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and The Rt Hon David Lammy MP

7 May 2025

UK joins high-level Gymnich talks with the EU Foreign Ministers in Poland at critical time as well as travelling to the Western Balkans

Support for Ukraine will be high on the agenda as well as enhancing UK-EU security and defence ties

Strengthening the UK's security partnership with Europe will deliver on the Government's Plan for Change by bolstering national security

The UK is continuing to engage with Europe highlighting the need for a new, ambitious security relationship, as the Foreign Secretary attends high-level Gymnich EU talks in Poland (7th May).

At the discussion on foreign affairs, David Lammy will underline how closer cooperation on security and defence is in the interests of both the UK and the EU and will discuss uniting across the continent to secure a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.

Lammy, who was the first Foreign Secretary since Brexit to attend a formal meeting of EU foreign ministers in October, has been laying the foundations for stronger ties with Europe since taking office.

Following leader-level discussions in London between the Prime Minister and the President of the European Union Commission on 24 April, he will continue to make the case for a long-term UK-EU strategic partnership that will support economic growth, protect citizens, and support European collective security and defence.

The meeting comes days ahead of the UK-EU Summit (19 May), which will cover a range of UK-EU issues and look to foster a stable, positive and forward-looking relationship.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

We are working hand-in-hand with our European allies to build a safer, more secure, and more prosperous Europe. Together, we will stand firm against aggression, defend our shared values, and deliver lasting peace. In the face of Russian aggression, NATO's Eastern Flank has never been more important. We are resolute in defending Europe's security. As we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, this commitment reminds us that our collective defence of freedom and peace in Europe remains as vital today as it was eight decades ago.

As part of his visit, the Foreign Secretary will travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina. He will meet political leaders to emphasise UK support for domestic action to respond to the ongoing political crisis, including through the formation of a new state-level coalition focused on Euro-Atlantic integration.

He will also visit the EUFOR military base, which is playing a key role in maintaining security in BiH and therefore contributing to regional stability.

Ongoing instability in the region risks a return to violence and threatens collective security, including through irregular migration and serious and organised crime.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Germany continues to stand firmly by Ukraine's side

Germany - Federal Government

30.04.2025 - Article

Germany is providing substantial support - almost 48 billion euro in total to date - to the people in Ukraine, and it stands firmly by their side, making available much more than just military equipment. Read on for more information about what Germany is doing to help.

Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine has brought immeasurable suffering to millions of people. The war is directly affecting not only Ukrainian soldiers who are defending their homeland and Europe's security on the front lines, but also the civilian population, including elderly people, women and children. The Russian armed forces' targeted attacks on non-military targets such as civilian infrastructure, including power plants that produce heat and electricity, and the water supply, are particularly perfidious. Russia is thereby attempting to wear down the people in Ukraine and deprive them of what they need to live. This is why the German Government is giving top priority to providing swift and targeted assistance to the Ukrainians.

For Ukraine to protect itself and defend our peace in Europe, the German Government has since the start of the war made available 47.8 billion euro (as of 31 March 2025) in bilateral support for Ukraine; this aid includes the critical area of air defence, substantial winter assistance programmes and energy assistance, help for those who have fled Ukraine or been displaced within the country, humanitarian assistance, mine clearance operations and assistance with efforts to investigate war crimes. Furthermore, Ukraine and Germany signed a bilateral agreement on security cooperation on 16 February 2024.

For a regularly updated overview of bilateral support, click here .

Military support for Ukraine

Ukraine must be able to defend itself against Russia's war of aggression, which violates international law. Germany is therefore supporting Ukraine by supplying arms and equipment, from its Bundeswehr stockpiles and from defence industry deliveries that are paid for out of the German budget. When providing this assistance, the German Government tailors its aid to the needs of Ukraine and continuously explores where it would be useful and possible to step up its assistance, e.g. with regard to air defence. To date, German assistance has included three PATRIOT systems, six IRIS-T SLM and five IRIS-T SLS air defence systems, and 60 Gepard self-propelled armoured air defence gun systems including more than 300,000 ammunition rounds.

In the EU , agreement was reached on the establishment of European Peace Facility (EPF) support measures for the armed forces of Ukraine to the tune of 5.5 billion euro. These measures take the form of a refinancing mechanism for equipment supplied on a bilateral basis and repair services provided by the EU Member States. Member States contribute to this on the basis of a cost share formula that reflects their respective gross national income. Germany's contribution for the years 2022-2027 amounts to approximately 1.4 billion euro. Mandatory contributions totalling 506 million euro have already been paid. In March 2024, a decision was taken to establish the Ukraine Assistance Fund within the EPF, and the target for its initial volume was set at an additional 5 billion euro by the year 2027.

For a current overview of military support click here .

Political support and peace efforts

We are convinced that, for there to be sustainable peace, Ukraine must be strong. For this, our lasting support is crucial. Together with our partners, we have been making every effort to bring about peace through a diplomatic agreement. We are discussing issues relating to a ceasefire, security in the Black Sea, reconstruction and the prosecution of Russian war crimes in a number of international forums - be it in the UN , NATO , the G7, the EU or the Berlin format. President Zelensky has regularly stressed that Ukraine is willing to negotiate and to that end, back in November 2022, presented a Peace Formula for a lasting and just peace, based on international law. The peace process is however also dependent on Russia's willingness to negotiate. What we observe though is that Russia continues to make maximum demands while continuing and even intensifying its attacks on Ukraine. We are therefore maintaining our support for Ukraine, because we believe that peace cannot be reached without consulting the Ukrainians. Germany and Europe are ready to play their part in this endeavour.

Humanitarian assistance, support for the energy sector and winter relief

As the second-largest donor worldwide and the largest donor in the EU , the Federal Foreign Office provides humanitarian assistance to humanitarian partner organisations in Ukraine and Ukraine's neighbouring countries, to alleviate the severe suffering of the population caused by Russia's war of aggression. Since February 2022, the Federal Foreign Office has made available a total of more than 1.4 billion euro in humanitarian assistance, thereby helping Ukraine through three cold winters.

Alongside our partners, we are also providing assistance to those who had to stay behind near the front lines - such as the elderly, the seriously ill and people with disabilities - as well as to internally displaced persons all across Ukraine. We are placing a special focus on mental and psychosocial support for Ukrainians, as well as assistance in the case of gender-based and sexual violence, and as regards the return and reintegration of abducted Ukrainian children.

Another priority of our support is the Ukrainian energy sector, which is the focus of Russian attacks. Germany is the largest bilateral donor to the Ukraine Energy Support Fund of the Energy Community, a European organisation. One area in which the German Government is providing support is emergency energy assistance - thereby ensuring that the population is supplied with electricity, heat and water. This includes repairs, additional capacity for electricity generation and protecting the infrastructure. In addition, we are also working with our Ukrainian partners to rebuild the energy infrastructure in a decentralised, environmentally-friendly way, with a focus on energy efficiency and the expansion of renewable energy.

Additional funding of support through windfall profits and G7 loans

In reaction to Russia's attack on Ukraine violating international law, assets of the Russian state in the EU were immobilised. It is clear that Russia will have to pay for the damage it has caused in Ukraine with its war. The UN General Assembly emphatically reaffirmed this duty based on the principle of state responsibility recognised under customary international law in a resolution adopted on 14 November 2022.

Furthermore, the G7 Heads of State and Government agreed back at the G7 Summit in Hiroshima in 2023 to release immobilised assets only once Russia has paid for the damage in Ukraine. In the meantime, the EU has agreed on a regulation to skim off the windfall profits of the central securities depositories. The regulation on windfall profits adopted by the EU has a solid foundation in EU law and is in accordance with international law. On the basis of this, the G7 announced on 25 October 2024 that it had agreed to make available to Ukraine a loan totalling around 45 billion euro (50 billion US dollars) using the windfall profits..

Documenting war crimes

In its war of aggression against Ukraine, Russia is also severely violating international humanitarian law and committing massive human rights abuses in Ukraine, such as the killing and torture of prisoners of war and civilians. The Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) has promptly initiated investigations. Germany is supporting these investigations, both financially and by seconding experts. The German Government is also assisting the Ukrainian authorities in the collection of evidence, for example by supplying forensic equipment.

Germany supports the Register of Damage for Ukraine established by the Council of Europe to prepare reparation claims based on damage caused by the Russian war of aggression. The Register has its seat in The Hague and took up its work at the beginning of February 2024. Germany provides financial support - so far, approximately one million euro - and has seconded one expert to assist in its work. In mid-December 2024, the Register issued its first decision: 832 submitted residential property claims for loss or damage were declared to be justified and officially recorded in the Register. Negotiations are currently under way on the establishment of a Claims Commission for Ukraine, which would review the registered claims and determine the amount of compensation sought. Germany argues that the violations of international law committed as part of the Russian war of aggression should not go unpunished and therefore also supports the establishment of a special tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine.

An unprecedented sanctions regime

For as long as Russia continues to brutally attack Ukraine, there must be consequences. Germany and its European partners have responded by imposing massive and unprecedented sanctions, i.e., by restricting Russian access to capital markets, imposing substantial export bans, especially in the spheres of advanced technology, industry and energy infrastructure, placing a price cap on Russian oil exports to third countries, imposing wide-ranging import bans, e.g. on coal, oil, iron and steel products as well as gold and diamonds from Russia, taking tough measures targeting Russia's aviation sector, and directly sanctioning Russia's President Putin, Foreign Minister Lavrov, further political and military decision-makers, war criminals, propagandists and the network of oligarchs that supports them. EU sanctions also target Russia's shadow fleet and its networks of third countries for circumventing sanctions, so that Russia's income and supply with goods needed for the war are further curtailed.

For more on the sanctions that are currently in effect, click here.

Reconstruction

The German Government, together with Ukraine and our partners in the EU and the G7, is already beginning to plan how Ukraine can rebuild. In December 2022, the G7 and Ukraine agreed to establish an international Donor Coordination Platform for the country's reconstruction. Although reconstruction will require significant international efforts, it also presents a great opportunity to invest in Ukraine's future, and in so doing, to modernise the state and the economy, bring about ecological transformation and, not least, to implement national reforms and make progress towards EU accession.

On 11 and 12 June 2024, Germany and Ukraine co-hosted an international gathering in Berlin, the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC 2024). After Lugano in 2022 and London in 2023, this was the first URC to be held in an EU Member State since the start of the war of aggression. More than 3400 participants from 60 countries met under the conference heading "United in defence. United in recovery. Stronger together" and showed their support for Ukraine not least by signing 110 agreements and treaties.

A detailed list of conference outcomes and the Co-Chairs' Statement of the German and Ukrainian Governments can be found here.

Tremendous willingness to help

Many people in Germany have great sympathy for the fate of the people in Ukraine, and the tremendous willingness to help is also reflected in civil society. The large number of donated items has resulted in aid organisations needing to do a significant amount of coordination work. The German Government therefore supports the appeal to refrain from donating items and whenever possible to donate money to established aid organisations instead. Donations can be made via Aktion Deutschland Hilft and the Disaster Relief Alliance ("Aktionsbundnis Katastrophenhilfe"). By adding the subject "Nothilfe Ukraine" (emergency aid for Ukraine) to bank transfers, the money will be spent on relief measures for people in Ukraine.

You can find more information on help for refugees in Ukraine and Germany here.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






The arms and military equipment Germany is sending to Ukraine

Germany - Federal Government

War in Ukraine

Germany provides support for Ukraine by supplying equipment and weapons, these come from supplies of the Federal Arms Forces and from deliveries from industry financed from the Federal Government's funds for security capacity building. An overview.

Tuesday, 6 May 2025

This list provides an overview of military assistance provided by the Federal Republic of Germany to Ukraine. This military assistance is delivered in two different ways: on the one hand there are the Federal Government funds for security capacity building, which are used to finance deliveries of military equipment and other material from industry. On the other hand, there are deliveries from Federal Armed Forces stocks. In total, the Federal Republic of Germany has so far provided or committed for future years military assistance with a value of approximately 28 billion euro.

Funds for the security capacity building initiative in 2024 alone for military assistance to Ukraine amount to approximately 7.1 billion euro. From these also Germany's contributions to the European Peace Facility of the European Union (EPF) are financed. From the EPF expenditures for military assistance to Ukraine can be re-imbursed to EU member states1. In addition to that there are authorisations to enter commitments in the following years currently amounting to approximately 6 billion euro.

So far already approximately 5 billion euro (2023) and approximately 1.6 billion euro (2022) were spent on military assistance to Ukraine. Additional approximately 2.9 billion euro have been committed in the first two years of the war for deliveries, which will arrive only in the years 2025 to 2028.

Since the beginning of the Russian armed attack on Ukraine on February 24, 2022 Germany has delivered material from Federal Armed Forces stocks amounting to approximately 5.2 billion euro reflecting estimated replacement values. Also, more than 10,000 Ukrainian soldiers have received military training in Germany. Expenses for this training so far amount to approximately 282 million euro. Additional expenses, not calculated here, result from medial treatment of injured soldiers.

Delivered military support to Ukraine:

(Changes compared to the previous update in bold)

Armoured fighting vehicles

269 Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles (MRAP)* (before: 203)

ammunition for main battle tank LEOPARD 2 (from Bundeswehr and industry stocks*)

ammunition for main battle tank LEOPARD 1*

ammunition for infantry fighting vehicles MARDER*

103 main battle tanks LEOPARD 1 A5* with spare parts (joint project with Denmark)

140 infantry fighting vehicles MARDER with spare parts (from Bundeswehr and industry stocks*)

78 tracked all-terrain vehicles Bandvagn 206 (BV206)*

11 All Terrain Tracked Carrier Warthog (command vehicle)*

158 MG3 for LEOPARD 2, MARDER and DACHS

5 All Terrain Tracked Carrier Warthog (repair and recovery vehicle)*

66 Armoured Personnel Carriers (APC)*

18 LEOPARD 2 A 6 main battle tanks with ammunition and spare parts (German share in joint project with further LEOPARD 2 operators)

50 MRAP vehicles DINGO

54 M113 armoured personnel carriers each with 2 MG and spare parts* (systems of Denmark, upgrades financed by Germany)

Air defence

16 Kinetic Defence Vehicle (Diehl Defence)* (before: 12)

330,000 rounds ammunitions for self-propelled anti-aircraft guns GEPARD (from Bundeswehr and industry stocks*) (before: 292,000)

IRIS-T SLM missiles*

60 self-propelled anti-aircraft guns GEPARD with spare parts

IRIS-T SLS missiles

6 air defence systems IRIS-T (SLM/SLS)*

4 PATRIOT launchers (from Bundeswehr and industry stocks*)

16 air surveillance radar TRML-4D*

AIM-9L/I-1 Sidewinder missiles

Sea Sparrow missiles

3 air defence systems PATRIOT with spare parts

PATRIOT missiles

2 air defence systems SKYNEX with ammunition*

4,000 rounds practice ammunitions for self-propelled anti-aircraft guns

500 Man Portable Air Defense Systems STINGER

2,700 Man Portable Air Defense Systems STRELA

Artillery

9 wheeled self-propelled howitzer Zuzana 2* (project jointly financed with Denmark and Norway) (before: 6)

454,000 rounds 155mm ammunition (from Bundeswehr and industry stocks*) (before: 427,000)

24,000 rounds 122mm ammunition* (before: 23,000)

25 self-propelled howitzers Panzerhaubitze 2000 with spare parts (from Bundeswehr and industry stocks*)

7 howitzer tubes M109 155mm*

21,000 rounds 155mm smoke/illuminating ammunition

ammunition for multiple rocket launchers MARS II

3 multiple rocket launchers HIMARS

155mm precision guided ammunition* (SMArt, VULCANO)

5 multiple rocket launchers MARS II with ammunition (German share in joint project with USA and Great Britain)

20 rocket launchers 70mm on pick-up trucks with rockets*

counter battery radar system COBRA*

10 laser target designators and portable fire control modules for VULCANO artillery ammunition*

Drones and anti-drone systems

619 reconnaissance drones VECTOR with spare parts* (before: 549)

1,050 strike drones HF-1* (before: 900)

80 unmanned surface vessels* (before: 70)

30 tracked unmanned ground vehicles Gereon RCS*

49 drone detection systems*

684 reconnaissance drones RQ-35 HEIDRUN*

211 reconnaissance drones SONGBIRD*

46 reconnaissance drones HORNET XR*

60 reconnaissance drones Golden Eagle*

2 reconnaissance drones VT-4 Rochen*

200 mobile drone jammers*

88 anti-drone sensors and jammers*

70 frequency range extensions for anti-drone devices*

180 RF 360 fieldkits - drone detection systems*

93 drone sensors*

18 reconnaissance drones Primoco ONE*

1 LUNA NG reconnaissance system*

10 anti-drone guns*

12 electronic anti-drone devices*

Military Engineering Capabilities

28 armoured recovery vehicles Bergepanzer 2 with spare parts* (before: 22)

65 mine clearing tanks WISENT 1 with spare parts* (before: 61)

81 mine ploughs* (before: 79)

200 portable mine clearing systems H-PEMBS*

material for explosive ordnance disposal (from Bundeswehr and industry stocks*)

25 mobile, remote controlled and protected mine clearing systems*

27 bridge-laying tanks BEAVER with spare parts and 5 bridges*

90 mine detectors*

12 armoured engineer vehicles DACHS with spare parts*

6 High Mobility Engineer Excavators

500 tool kits with blasting material*

19 heavy and medium bridge systems and 12 trailers

2 armoured recovery vehicles Bergepanzer 3

12 mobile and protected mine clearing systems Ahlmann*

Protective and Special Equipment

123 ground surveillance radars* (before: 82)

1,508 laser range finders * (before: 1,321)

347 infrared binoculars* (before: 255)

100 underwater scooter * (before: 45)

290 border protection vehicles* (before: 287)

230 field glasses*

15 air assault vehicles Caracal*

15 AMPS self-protection systems for helicopters*

52 mobile antenna mast systems*

58,000 combat helmets

331SatCom terminals*

750 night vision goggles*

IT equipment*

2,000 LED lamps*

84 outboard motors

400 IR cameras*

3 Satcom surveillance systems*

1 naval mine clearance system*

2,667 Crypto Phones*

90,600 safety glasses (from Bundeswehr and industry stocks*)

1 PCB printer*

1 antenna hub station

1,288 binoculars

5 mobile reconnaissance systems SurveilSPIRE*

10 radio jammers*

40 laser target designators*

1 radio frequency system

3,000 field telephones with 5.000 cable reels and carrying straps

1 communications electronic scanner/jammer systems*

6 mobile decontamination vehicles HEP 70 including decontamination material

10 HMMWV (8x ground radar capability, 2x jamming/anti drone capability)*

1 high frequency unit with equipment*

Logistics

262 trucks Zetros*

78 tankers Zetros*

24 tank transporter tractor M1070 Oshkosh*

473 vehicles (trucks, minibuses, all-terrain vehicles) (from Bundeswehr and industry stocks*)

181 Pick-ups*

40 protected vehicles*

90 truck tractor trains 8x8 HX81 and 90 semi-trailers*

25 trucks MAN TGS*

46 load-handling trucks and roll of containers*

34 load-handling trucks 15t*

14 tracked and remote controlled infantry vehicles THeMIS*

Combat Readiness and Survivability

16,917 man-portable anti-tank weapons RGW 90* (before: 16,000)

3,769 assault rifles G3

5,800 assault rifles MK 556* (before: 5,000)

493,400 tourniquets (before: 343.400)

15,300 sleeping bags (before: 14,766)

4,750 assault rifles HK 416*

1,420,000 first aid kits*

34,000 120mm mortar ammunition*

467,000 rounds ammunition 40mm*

450 machine guns MG5*

484 precision rifles HLR 338 with 314,000 rounds ammunition*

881 rifles CR 308*

73 assault rifles AK-47

more than 60 million rounds of ammunition for fire arms (from Bundeswehr and industry stocks*)

88.400 wool blankets

370,000 chest seals*

19,480 anti-tank mines (from Bundeswehr and industry stocks*)

220 grenade launchers GMG*

200 machine guns MG4*

emergency power generators

250 tents

1 million trauma bandages*

3,500 pistols SFP9*

110 machine gun MG3 with 500 spare barrels and breechblocks

2 field hospitals*

93,000 smoke grenades*

100,000 m detonating cord and 115.000 detonators

rescue boats*

6.132 camouflage nets (from Bundeswehr and industry stocks*)

6,000 ponchos*

450 snow chains

205,000 single module group rations

medical material

10 All Terrain Tracked Carrier Warthog (ambulance)

49 ambulances*

30,000 winter clothing sets

27,477 backpacks

1,202 Infusion kits

8 dental sterilizers

2 hangar tents*

8 lift trucks*

295 generators

168 mobile heating systems*

Mi-24 spare parts*

spare parts for heavy machine gun M2

116,000 winter jackets

80,000 winter trousers

240,000 winter hats

320,000 pre-packaged military Meals Ready

67 fridges for medical material*

3,000 anti-tank weapons Panzerfaust 3 with 900 firing devices

50 Bunkerfaust with 15 firing devices

100,000 hand grenades

5,300 explosive charges

350,000 detonators

100 auto-injector devices

15 palettes military clothing

1,200 hospital beds

18 palettes medical material, 60 surgical lights

protective clothing, surgical masks

1 field hospital (project jointly financed with Estonia)*

Diesel and gasoline*

10 tons AdBlue*

500 medical gauzes*

MiG-29 spare parts*

Military support to Ukraine in planning/in execution

(due to security concerns, the Federal Government abstains from providing details on transportation modalities and dates until after handover)

Armoured fighting vehicles

25 infantry fighting vehicles MARDER*

9 AiTO30 FDC (wheeled infantry fighting vehicle RCT-30 with mobile fire direction center)*

131 Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles (MRAP)*

22 LEOPARD 1 A5 main battle tanks* (inter alia joint project with Denmark and the Netherlands)

ammunition for main battle tanks for LEOPARD 2*

ammunition for main battle tanks for LEOPARD 1*

ammunition for infantry fighting vehicles MARDER*

Air defence

10 air defence systems IRIS-T (SLM/SLS)* (before: 6)

IRIS-T SLM/SLS missiles*

PATRIOT missiles

120 Man Portable Air Defense Systems IGLA*

2 PATRIOT launcher*

10 self-propelled anti-aircraft guns GEPARD*

2 air defence systems SKYNEX with ammunition*

GEPARD ammunition*

Artillery

more than 200,000 projectiles 155mm*

54 wheeled self-propelled howitzers RCH 155*

19 self-propelled howitzers Panzerhaubitze 2000*

more than 100,000 projectiles 122mm*

7 wheeled self-propelled howitzer Zuzana 2* (project jointly financed with Denmark and Norway)

Drones and counter-UAV systems

316 reconnaissance drones VECTOR*

30 reconnaissance drones RQ-35 HEIDRUN*

21 anti-drone sensors and jammers*

2.950 strike drones HF-1

332 reconnaissance drones SONGBIRD*

40 drone detection systems*

Helicopter

6 Sea King Mk41 multi-role helicopters with spare parts

4 AMPS self-protection systems for helicopters*

Military Engineering Capabilities

5 armoured recovery vehicles Bergepanzer 2*

material for explosive ordnance disposal*

2 mobile and protected mine clearing systems Ahlmann*

Protective and Special Equipment

1,100 ground surveillance radars*

92 laser range finders*

1,660 combat helmets*

10,000 safety glasses*

10 mobile reconnaissance systems SurveilSPIRE*

110 border protection vehicles*

11 communications electronic scanner/jammer systems*

Logistics

20 Zetros refrigerator trucks*

1 load-handling trucks 8x6 with 7 roll of containers*

2 tractors and 4 trailers*

Combat Readiness and Survivability

8,000 man-portable anti-tank weapons*

3.420 anti-tank mines PARM*

84,000 rounds ammunition 40mm*

39 CR 308

16 precision rifles HLR 338*

* Deliveries from industry stocks financed by German funds for security capacity building. Some of the deliveries require upgrades or productions is ongoing; also training measures take place.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






EU To Formally Accuse Russia Of Using Chemical Weapons In Ukraine

By Systema May 06, 2025

The Council of the European Union has prepared a new sanctions regulation that, for the first time, formally accuses Russia of using CS gas as a method of warfare on the front lines in Ukraine.

In an explanatory memorandum seen by RFE/RL's Russian Investigative Unit Systema, EU officials refer to two reports by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), published at Ukraine's request in November 2024and February 2025, as the basis for the move.

This proposal is part of a three-package set of sanctions the EU is expected to adopt in the coming days. The other two target cyberattacks and Russian destabilization campaigns in Europe. According to internal EU sources, a fourth package of sanctions focused on targeting Russia's shadow fleet will follow.

The reports document the alleged use of CS gas in Maryivka and Ilinka, in the Dnipropetrovsk region of Ukraine, during Russian attacks in 2024.

The OPCW based its reports on soil and water samples, interviews with military personnel, and photographs of hand-grenade casings marked "RG-Vo," which stands for "hand grenade -- toxic agent."

Russia's RT state television channel aired footageof Russian troops using such Russian-made grenades on the battlefield.

"In light of the seriousness of the situation, in absence of a credible explanation from Russia regarding its widely reported use of riot control agents, and to enhance the global norm against the use of chemical weapons, the European Union calls for a timely attribution of the proven use of riot control agents as a method of warfare by the OPCW," the memorandum says.

The EU sanctions list will include the Russian Defense Ministry's Radiological, Chemical, and Biological Defense Troops, and the 27th and 33rd scientific research centers involved in the development and use of chemical agents.

CS is a tear gas also known as "Lilac." It causes severe irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. Those coming in contact with it lose orientation and can suffocate.

Formally, CS is considered a nonlethal means of suppressing riots and is used by police in many countries. The use of such substances as weapons is prohibited by Article 1of the Chemical Weapons Convention, EU officials note.

According toUkraine's Defense Ministry, capsules with such gas have also been found inside Iranian-made Shahed drones, which have been widely used by Russia in its attacks on Ukraine.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/eu-to-formally-accuse-russia-of- using-chemical-weapons-in-ukraine/33406449.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.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






EU-Ukraine Free Trade In The Balance; Warsaw, Lviv Meetings Set Up New War Tribunal

By Rikard Jozwiak May 06, 2025

Briefing #1: Why EU-Ukraine Trade Is About To Get Less Free

What You Need To Know: Since June 2022, the European Union has granted Ukraine full trade liberalization to help support the war-torn country's economy. These measures -- suspending import duties and quotas -- are known as Autonomous Trade Measures (ATMs), and they appear to have benefited Kyiv.

In 2024, Ukrainian exports to the EU reached nearly 60 percent of total exports, up from 39.1 percent in 2021. However, the ATMs, which have been renewed annually by a majority vote of EU member states, are set to end definitively on June 5. They were always intended to be temporary and could only be extended twice.

Now, negotiations are under way between Brussels and Kyiv on what will replace them.

The fallback option is a return to the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement, which came into force in 2017 (though provisionally applied from 2016), and includes a free trade component.

The current talks focus on Article 29 of that agreement, which outlines a framework for potential reciprocal tariff liberalization.

But it is far from smooth sailing, as time is running short, and the effects of the ATMs aren't universally liked in the bloc.

Deep Background: Farmers in so-called frontline EU border states, such as Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria, have long lobbied their governments to get rid of them, arguing that a glut of Ukrainian agricultural goods has overwhelmed local storage and pushed down prices for local food producers.

At various times in 2023 and 2024, these farmers blocked the borders with Ukraine to prevent goods from entering the EU. In response, the European Commission, which oversees EU trade policies, tried several solutions, including sealing agricultural shipments from Ukraine to divert them away from frontline countries and toward other EU destinations or ports for export beyond the bloc.

In the end, the commission agreed to limit inflows of the most popular agricultural goods by enacting emergency brakes. These brakes could be pulled if certain imports exceeded the average import numbers recorded between July 1, 2021, and December 31, 2024. And the brakes have been used readily in the past year on Ukrainian exports of oats, eggs, sugar, and honey.

The official line of the European Commission is that it is "finalizing the work on the proposal to ensure a seamless transition to a new trade regime with Ukraine after the expiry of the ATMs" and that this proposal will soon be presented to Kyiv.

The question is when. Many EU officials in Brussels are worried that any new proposal could become a political hot potato in the Polish presidential election campaign when the country goes to the polls to select a new head of state on May 18, and a likely second round on June 1.

But it is not only the political sway of Polish farmers that needs to be heeded.

A joint letter by the agriculture ministers of Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia addressed to the European Commission and seen by RFE/RL has also raised the stakes.

The letter states that the ministers "firmly believe that the upcoming expiration of the ATM regime must serve as an opportunity to reassess and recalibrate our trade relations with Ukraine. It is essential to ensure that future trade arrangements reflect a balanced approach that accommodates the interests of all parties without disproportionately harming the economies of neighboring member states."

It then goes on to highlight several new proposals, all of which would be disadvantageous to Kyiv.

These include:

A return to prewar tariff quotas;

Bilateral safeguard provisions for all agricultural products;

Frontline member states being able to impose extra safeguards; and

A review clause to reassess the agreement two years after its application -- aimed at preventing future market distortions and ensuring fair competition for EU farmers.





But it doesn't end there.

The ministers also argue that "in parallel with Ukraine's accession process, relevant sanitary and phytosanitary, animal welfare, public health, and environment-related regulations in line with EU standards should be introduced for Ukrainian agricultural production."

Drilling Down

While such reforms are indeed necessary for eventual EU membership, it's notable that one of the letter's signatories, Hungary, is currently blocking that very accession process.

The ministers also propose a minimum import price threshold for selected items, which "could play a deterrent role in terms of importing agricultural goods into EU Member States at prices below the cost of domestically produced agricultural products" -- effectively another trade barrier and a clear move to shield local farmers.

So, what does Ukraine want? Simply put, almost more of the same. In a letter to the commission, seen by RFE/RL, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal writes that, "without substantial guaranteed and ongoing multi-industry trade liberalization, Ukraine will simply be unable to rebuild its industries, create jobs and livelihoods for its citizens to recover its economy. Simply put, Ukraine needs your trade. First to survive, then to thrive."

Shmyhal also warns that, failing to strike a preferential trade deal with Brussels could cost Ukraine 3 billion ($3.4 billion) annually, potentially leading to a 1 percent reduction in Ukraine's gross domestic product.

While accepting that any new deal is likely to come under the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement, Shmyhal says that it should "contain a minimum number of exceptions" and points out that "we are obviously aware of concerns of European farmers, but we emphasize that the share of Ukrainian products on the European market remains relatively small. For many product groups, even those considered sensitive, it's less than 1 percent of total EU consumption."

He also suggests that the safeguard measures introduced for certain products in 2024 "should become the starting point for gradually liberalized tariff quotas" on agricultural goods.

Given the looming June 5 deadline, Shmyhal has also hinted at some sort of bridging solution -- something that I have heard might happen.

"If it is impossible to reach a solution in time before the 5th of June, we need to find a joint short-term solution so current Ukrainian exports can continue until the Association Agreement is updated," he said.

"Otherwise, there is a risk of returning to higher tariffs and lower quantities under the tariff quotas of the prewar period, and this would cause significant damages to the Ukrainian economy."





Briefing #2: Sanctions, War Tribunal On Agenda As EU Ministers Prepare To Meet

What You Need To Know: European Union foreign ministers will gather in Warsaw this week for an informal council meeting and then head to Lviv in a show of solidarity with Ukraine in the face of major Victory Day celebrations in Russia.

Few concrete decisions are expected be made in either Poland on May 7-8, nor a day later in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv, as these aren't official EU councils.

"In line with the meeting's informal nature and taking benefit from the more intimate (ministers-only) setting, we encourage everyone's contribution to a truly frank and non-scripted discussion," according to a welcoming note for the Warsaw meeting that was seen by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.

"In this spirit, we recommend that our working sessions take place without interpretation or electronic devices. We also kindly invite you to opt for semi-formal attire throughout the meeting."

The informality doesn't mean the meetings will lack high-level officials and come at a time when Russian President Vladimir Putin is looking to capture the world's attention with a massive military parade in front of dozens of dignitaries from around the world.

During the first day of the Warsaw meeting, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy will join to discuss European security, while the second day is dedicated to EU-US relations and the situation in Ukraine.

On the latter, the welcome note, signed by the EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and the host, Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski, proposes an "in-depth discussion" on the EU's role in bolstering Ukraine's negotiation position toward a "just and lasting peace."

Officials will look to do this, the note says, by "building on our unique collective leverage -- broad support to Ukraine, in particular financial and military, pressure to constrain Russia's war chest, Ukraine's EU accession path, and the ongoing work on enhancing European defense capabilities."

Deep Background: While no decisions are to be rubber stamped, there are three developments pertaining to Ukraine that analysts said will be closely watched.

The EU is aiming to announce more cash for Ukraine's defense industry, though a figure has yet to be agreed.

The bloc is also expected to accelerate sanctions on Russia in the wake of numerous missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities in recent weeks.

According to EU diplomats, it is likely to be a smaller package consisting mainly of the further blacklisting of Russian officers and politicians along with adding ships belonging to the Russian shadow fleet that will be banned from getting services in European ports.

Drilling Down

Major new economic sanctions against Russia aren't expected to avoid dissent from some EU capitals and instead get a quick green light as a sign of solidarity in ratcheting up pressure on Moscow.

The Lviv meeting is set to take place as the ministers attend the establishment of a special tribunal aimed at prosecuting senior Russian and Belarusian leaders for the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

The tribunal is meant as a complement to the ongoing International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation into war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide that was launched three years ago.

It will fill in the gaps as the ICC isn't looking into what are legally known as "crimes of aggression" -- meaning things such as military occupation, annexation and bombardments.

A so-called core group of countries, including all EU member states except Hungary and Slovakia, as well as the G7 minus the United States, have drawn up three documents on an agreement with Ukraine to establish the tribunal.

The actual tribunal won't be formally set up until the Council of Europe's committee of ministers votes on it on May 14.

The EU and Kyiv have been gathering evidence on crimes of aggression since 2023.





Looking Ahead

The European Parliament is meeting this week, and there's plenty on the agenda.

On May 7, the chamber will debate both the potential peace negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow and the need for the Kremlin to return Ukrainian children who have been forcibly taken to Russia.

European lawmakers will also quiz the European Commission on the recent electricity blackout on the Iberian peninsula and a recent ruling in the EU courts forbidding Malta's so-called "golden passport scheme," which has allowed people, notably several Russians, to buy EU citizenship.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/wider-europe-jozwiak-eu- ukraine-free-trade-tribunal/33405058.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.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russia, Ukraine Swap 205 Prisoners Of War In Latest Deal

By Current Time May 06, 2025

Ukraine and Russia have conducted a prisoner exchange involving 410 soldiers -- 205 from each side -- the latest in a series of swaps resulting from their ongoing war.

The Russian Defense Ministry said on May 6 that the Russian soldiers involved in the exchange, which was mediated by the United Arab Emirates, are currently in Belarus as they head back to Russia for treatment and rehabilitation.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the action, saying the POWs came from almost "all types and branches of the armed forces," including "defenders of Mariupol and the entire front line."

Russia's bloody siege of the Azov Sea city of Mariupol months into the full-scale invasion of Ukraine saw fighters battle Russian troops for months before around 2,500 surrendered in May 2022.

An April 19 exchange saw 277 Ukrainian POWs return home, according to Kyiv, while Moscow says it received 246 soldiers. In total, more than 3,000 prisoners have been swapped through U.A.E.-mediated exchanges since Russia's full-scale invasion began in February 2022.

The latest swap comes as renewed Western efforts to resolve the conflict, pushed in large part by US President Donald Trump, have begun to falter, as Russia continues to press its advantage on the battlefield in Ukraine.

Despite an earlier tentative agreement to limit attacks on energy infrastructure, Ukraine and Russia have also continued to target oil pipelines, power plants, electricity transmission lines, and other crucial sites.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for a three-day cease-fire in its Ukraine invasion beginning on May 8 to coincide with Victory Day celebrations.

The proposal was dismissed by Kyiv as "theater." Zelenskyy has called instead for a longer, 30-day cease-fire.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-ukraine-prisoner-swap- pows-exchange-zelenskyy-putin/33406281.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.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russia, Ukraine Exchange Barrage Of Drones Ahead Of WWII Victory Day

By RFE/RL May 06, 2025

Russia and Ukraine targeted each other with drone strikes on May 6 as both Moscow and Kyiv gear up for Victory Day celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the surrender of Nazi Germany during World War II.

Russia targeted Ukraine's second-largest city, Kharkiv, with nearly 20 drones on May 6, injuring at least four people, local prosecutors said.

The main market street in Kharkiv was hit in the attack, which happened overnight.

Meanwhile, Russia's Defense Ministry said Ukraine launched more than 100 drones at targets in 11 regions overnight, including the capital. The ministry claimed air defenses intercepted or downed 105 drones.

In Moscow, at least 19 Ukrainian drones were destroyed on their approach to the city, Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said on Telegram.

There was no "serious damage or injuries" where debris fell near one of the main highways leading into the city, he said.

Flights were suspended at all four airports that serve Moscow, Russia's aviation regulator said. Flights resumed several hours later.

In the Kursk border region, where Russian troops recently pushed out the remnants of a Ukrainian force that had invaded last summer, Ukrainian forces attacked a power substation, according to Governor Aleksandr Khinshtein.

The attack injured two teenagers and damaged two transformers, he said. The damage cut power to the area.

There was no immediate comment from Kyiv about the attack, but Ukrainian officials have previously said such assaults are aimed at hitting military targets and infrastructure used to support Moscow's war efforts.

Authorities in Ukraine's Sumy region, to the northwest, urged residents to evacuate homes in two cities near the border after Russian forces fired artillery into two settlements, killing three people and injuring four.

"The Sumy region. Since morning, Russia has been striking border settlements," the Interior Ministry said on Telegram.

Despite Russian President Vladimir Putin's call for a three-day cease-fire in the Ukraine war, beginning May 8, there are no signs of any let up in the violence, either on the battlefield or in the daily exchange of drone barrages between Kyiv and Moscow.

Victory Day Preparations

The Red Square military parade on May 9 is the centerpiece of the Kremlin's commemorations for Victory Day. Putin is expected to give a speech extolling Moscow's role in the World War II victory, as well as Russia's all-out ongoing invasion of Ukraine, now in its fourth year.

Putin is expected to host 20 world leaders for the Victory Day events, and officials have announced increased security measures in Moscow ahead of the day.

Moscow authorities warned residents against firing off fireworks this week, and also warned of Internet disruptions in the region, possibly as a way to thwart drone or other potential attacks.

With reporting by RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service, Reuters, and AFP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russia-war-drones- moscow-kursk-sumy/33405522.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.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russia Returns 205 Military Personnel From Ukraine-Controlled Territory - Defense Ministry

Sputnik News

20250506

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russia has returned 205 servicepeople from the territory controlled by Kiev, another 205 prisoners of war have been handed over to Ukraine, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday.

"On May 6 of this year, as a result of the negotiation process, 205 Russian servicemen were returned from the territory controlled by the Kiev regime. In exchange, 205 prisoners of war of the armed forces of Ukraine were transferred," the ministry said in a statement.

The UAE has provided humanitarian mediation efforts during the return of Russian servicepeople from captivity, the ministry added.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






During This War, We Have Already Managed to Bring Home 4,757 People From Captivity - Address by the President

President of Ukraine

6 May 2025 - 20:53

Dear Ukrainians!

The most important news today is that another 205 of our warriors have returned home from Russian captivity. Two hundred and two of them are privates and non-commissioned officers, three are officers. Defenders of Mariupol and the Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, Luhansk regions, our Kharkiv and Sumy regions. I thank all our team working on the exchanges: all the guys at the Coordination Headquarters, I want to thank every institution - these are Defense Intelligence, the Office of the President, the Security Service, the Ministry of Internal Affairs - all those who are helping. During this war, we have already managed to bring home 4,757 people from captivity. And of course, I am grateful to every soldier, every commander, all our units that are on the frontlines, ensuring the replenishment of the exchange fund. Our ability to bring our people back is the result of the bravery of our warriors, who skillfully fight and capture the occupiers. We must bring all our people home.

Today, I also congratulated Ukrainian warriors on Infantry Day. Motorized infantry, mountain assault, mechanized, rifle units are the very backbone of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the foundation of our army, all those who physically hold the lines, reclaim positions, and raise our flag. Ukraine stands because our infantry stands. Because no matter what happens, the front line and Ukraine's positions are exactly where our infantrymen are. I thank all our warriors!

Today, I held a Staff meeting. Several key issues were on the agenda. In particular, provision for our army - financial support. The Minister of Finance of Ukraine delivered a report. We are working to ensure complete stability in the financial provision for our warriors. Another important topic discussed at today's Staff meeting was the protection of Ukraine's skies, particularly the downing of "Shahed" drones, including with the use of other drones. This is one of the most advanced technologies in modern warfare. And I am grateful to everyone who is implementing it - those who are providing this capability, new to any army, to use drones in protecting our country from drones. Today, I instructed the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to work more actively with our partners to ensure funding for the production of just such interceptors. We will develop this direction as much as possible, and each region will have its own area of responsibility for this very work.

And one more thing.

I congratulate Friedrich Merz on being elected the new Chancellor of Germany. Germany is one of our key friends, truly one of the leaders in supporting Ukraine. This applies, above all, to air defenses - the largest number of Patriot and IRIS-T systems supplied by a single country has come specifically from Germany. These are thousands of saved lives. Germany is also a leader in supporting our financial resilience. Ukraine greatly values our cooperation. We are preparing for our first talks with Mr. Chancellor. We have things with him that can economically strengthen both our countries and offer greater security for decades to come. We look forward to our meeting. I wish him success in his position. Overall, the coming weeks are expected to be very active for Ukraine in diplomacy. We are preparing decisions, and we are preparing new support packages. We are planning new measures to increase pressure on Russia - to protect our people. I thank everyone who stands with Ukraine!

Glory to Ukraine!

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Andriy Yermak Met With the U.S. Charge D'Affaires Ad Interim to Ukraine

President of Ukraine

6 May 2025 - 18:20

Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak held a meeting with the U.S. Charge d'Affaires ad interim to Ukraine, Julie Davis, and congratulated her on the beginning of her diplomatic mission in our country.

Andriy Yermak expressed gratitude to the United States and all the American people for their support of Ukraine; he also commended the diplomatic efforts of U.S. President Donald Trump.

The Head of the Presidential Office spoke about constructive meetings with representatives of the U.S. Presidential Administration in Paris and London, and expressed hope that cooperation would continue.

He emphasized the importance of establishing a full and unconditional ceasefire, which must be the first step toward launching negotiations on achieving a just and lasting peace.

Andriy Yermak also highlighted the recent decision of the U.S. Department of State regarding the possible sale to Ukraine of pilot training and F-16 aircraft maintenance services.

The Head of the Office of the President underscored the importance of Ukraine and the United States signing the agreement to establish the Reconstruction Investment Fund. He noted that the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine is preparing to ratify it this week.





NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Can The EU's New Tribunal Hold Russia Accountable For Crimes Of Aggression In Ukraine?

By Rikard Jozwiak May 07, 2025

European Union foreign ministers are gathering in Warsaw on May 7-8 for an informal council meeting and then head to Lviv a day later in a show of solidarity with Ukraine as Russia plays up its Victory Day celebrations.

Neither of the meetings is an official EU council, so they're unlikely to announce anything concrete. But the foreign ministers are expected to get the ball rolling on the creation of a special tribunal to investigate and hold Russia accountable for crimes of aggression committed in Ukraine.

The Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression Against Ukraine, as it's called, will then be formalized in Luxembourg on May 14 when the Council of Europe's Committee of Ministers meets.

What Is The Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression Against Ukraine?

Shortly after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the International Criminal Court (ICC) opened an investigation into allegations of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide committed by Russian forces. This includes offenses taking place on Ukrainian territory dating back to the Maidan Revolution that started in November 2013.

The new tribunal would look into what are called crimes of aggression, over which the ICC lacks jurisdiction. It would be an international court rooted in Ukrainian jurisdiction with a so-called legal personality under international law, Ukrainian law, and the law of the host country, which has yet to be determined -- initially thought to be the French city of Strasbourg, as that's the official seat of the Council of Europe, but the tribunal may end up in The Hague.

What Constitutes A Crime Of Aggression?

According to the draft statute of the tribunal, seen by RFE/RL, a "crime of aggression" means "the planning, preparation, initiation or execution, by a person in a position effectively to exercise control over or to direct the political or military action of a State, of an act of aggression which, by its character, gravity, and scale, constitutes a manifest violation of the Charter of the United Nations."

The statue further notes that an "act of aggression" means "the use of armed force by a state against the sovereignty, territorial integrity, or political independence of another state."

Many of the actions Russia has undertaken in recent years such as occupations, annexations, naval blockades, and bombardments of both civilian and military targets in Ukraine (though it denies targeting such infrastructure) constitute acts of aggression. In legal terms, Russia's invasion is regarded as an "unjust war" or a "war of conquest."

The term "crime of aggression" thus carries a wide scope, which can also include actions seen as war crimes or genocide. The tribunal will work closely with the ICC in the division of cases.

The tribunal would have the power to "investigate, prosecute, and try persons who bear the greatest responsibility for the crime of aggression against Ukraine."

Crimes of aggression are, in other words, what are known as "leadership" crimes, committed by, as the text notes, "a person in a position effectively to exercise control over or to direct the political or military action."

This would include politicians in Russia, and potentially those in other countries that have contributed to undermining Ukraine's territorial integrity -- namely Belarus, Iran, and North Korea.

Does Putin Have Immunity From Prosecution?

Russian President Vladimir Putin and those in his inner circle do have immunity from prosecution while in office under what is known as a "triangle of immunity" for sitting presidents, prime ministers, and foreign ministers. This often includes defense ministers, as well.

This immunity can technically only be waived by the United Nations, but given that Russia is a permanent member of the UN Security Council even this technicality becomes rather academic.

It's most likely the tribunal will see a lot of "in absentia"hearings and rulings, which according to the draft statute will be possible.

What Will The Tribunal Do, Exactly?

A core group of countries has been gathering evidence together with Ukraine since 2023, so the work is already well under way. It's a bit like "a legal 'coalition of the willing'" with some 40 countries, including most of the 27 EU member states minus Hungary and Slovakia; the G7 countries bar the United States, which recently signaled it won't take part; and other Council of Europe countries. Any nation can, however, join at any time.

A management committee consisting of officials from the core group will now select judges and a prosecutor. The draft statute notes that "the judges of the Special Tribunal shall be persons of high moral character, impartiality, and integrity who possess the qualifications required in their respective countries for appointment to the highest judicial offices. They shall be independent in the performance of their functions and shall not accept or seek instructions from any Government or any other source. No two judges may be nationals of the same State."

The prosecutor will be elected through a secret ballot by an absolute majority of the management committee for a period of seven years.

If a party is found guilty by the tribunal, they could face anywhere from a few years in prison to a life sentence, as well as fines. Those convicted will serve their sentence in a state that has concluded a specific agreement with the tribunal. If there is no such country, "the sentence may be served in Ukraine."

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/crimes-of-aggression-tribunal- ukraine-russia-eu-foreign-ministers/33406245.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.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Star Copper Corp. ("Star Copper" or the "Company") (CSE:STCU) is pleased to announce that shareholders of Star Copper (the "Shareholders") have approved the previously announced plan of arrangement (the "Arrangement") pursuant to which the Company's 100% interest in the Okeover copper-molybdenum project located immediately north of the coastal City of Powell River, British Columbia (the "Okeover Project"), along with related assets and liabilities, will be spun out to the Shareholders (the "Spin-Out") through the Shareholders receiving common shares in Alpha Copper Corp. ("Spinco"), currently a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.

At the Company's annual general and special meeting held on April 30, 2025, Shareholders representing 41.75% of the Company's issued and outstanding shares voted, and the special resolution approving the Arrangement was approved by 99.99% of the votes cast. All of the other matters considered at the meeting, including the Company's omnibus equity incentive plan and Spinco's stock option plan, were also approved in accordance with management's recommendations.

In addition, the Company is pleased to announce that on May 5, 2025 Star Copper obtained a final order from the Supreme Court of British Columbia ("Court") in respect of the Arrangement which was a condition to closing of the Arrangement.

Subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the remaining customary closing conditions, Star Copper expects that the Arrangement will become effective on May 9, 2025 or shortly thereafter. The Company will issue a subsequent news release confirming the effective date of the Arrangement and relevant date for which Shareholders of record will receive, for each Star Copper common share held immediately prior to the effective time of the Arrangement: (i) one identical replacement common share of Star Copper (each, a "New Star Copper Share"); and (ii) one-third of one Spinco common share (each, a "Spinco Share"). Outstanding options to purchase common shares in the Company will also be adjusted pursuant to the Arrangement, such that the holders of options will receive new options to purchase New Star Copper Shares and Spinco Shares, as described in more detail in the Company's information circular dated April 1, 2025 (the "Information Circular"). The Company's transfer agent, Computershare Investor Services Inc., will act as depositary in connection with the Arrangement.

After the Arrangement is completed, it is expected the New Star Copper Shares will continue to be listed for trading on: (i) the Canadian Securities Exchange in Canada under the symbol "STCU"; (ii) the Frankfurt Stock Exchange in Germany under the symbol "PPOO"; and (iii) on the OTC Market in the United States of America under the symbol "STCUF". The Spinco Shares will not be listed on any stock exchange upon completion of the Arrangement, but Spinco will operate as a reporting issuer in the Provinces of British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario and will comply with its continuous disclosure obligations under applicable Canadian securities laws. More detailed information regarding the Spinco Shares and post-Arrangement Spinco is available in the Information Circular.

As announced previously, the Spin-Out will provide investors with an ownership stake in two separate specialized companies. Star Copper will continue to focus on the advancement the Star copper-gold porphyry project in the Golden Triangle of British Columbia (the "Star Project"), while Spinco will focus on advancing the Okoever Project.

Additional information regarding the terms of the Arrangement, including a summary of the terms and conditions of the arrangement agreement, is set out in the Information Circular, which is filed under Star Copper's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

Darryl Jones, President and CEO of Star Copper, stated: "We are pleased the Shareholders and the Court have approved the Arrangement, which we believe will create value in two primary ways for our Shareholders. First, we believe the Okeover Project has significant unrealized value that is lost in the current structure. Separately we believe Spinco can advance the Okeover Project, and create considerable value that is not being seen as investors correctly focus on our exciting Star Project. Star Copper is having a great start to 2025, and we thank our Shareholders for their support throughout the years."

About Star Copper Corp. (CSE:STCU)(OTC PINK:STCUF)(FWB:PP00)

Star Copper is focused on contributing to the green economy by finding and developing copper resource assets in stable jurisdictions. The Company is positioned to earn a 60-per-cent interest in the Indata copper-gold project located in north-central British Columbia. After the acquisition of Cavu Energy Metals, the Company has acquired 100% of the Star copper-gold porphyry project in the Golden Triangle of British Columbia, as well as the 100% owned Quesnel project in the middle of the Quesnel Trough, host to a number of alkalic copper-gold porphyry deposits running northwest across western British Columbia. The Company also holds a 100% interest in the Copper-Molybdenum Okeover project north of Powell River.

For more information visit https://starcopper.com/

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of Star Copper Corp.

~Darryl Jones~

Darryl Jones, CEO, President & Director

Star Copper Corp.

Contact Star Copper

Invictus Investor Relations

+1 (604) 788-9533

walter@invictusir.com

Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward Looking Information

This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible", and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will", "may", "could", or" should" occur or be achieved. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, without limitation, including: the completion of the Spin-Out or the Arrangement, including the satisfaction or waiver of customary closing conditions in a timely fashion or on terms satisfactory to Star Copper or Spinco; the anticipated effective date of the Arrangement; the anticipated benefits of the proposed Arrangement, including the unlocking of value for the Company's shareholders; the advancement of the Star Project or the Okeover Project by Star Copper and Spinco, respectively; the trading of New Star Copper Shares on the CSE, FSE or the OTC Market; and, the listing status of the Spinco Shares, are all forward-looking statements. 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 reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by Star Copper, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and the parties have made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation, the ability to satisfy all closing conditions of the Arrangement and the receipt of all regulatory approvals required therefore, the ability of the Company to complete proposed exploration work on its mineral properties, the results of exploration, the continued availability of capital on terms and conditions satisfactory to the Company, and changes in general economic, market and business conditions. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release concerning these items. Star Copper does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by applicable securities laws.

SOURCE: Star Copper Corp.


CALGARY, May 6, 2025 - MEG Energy Corp. ("MEG" or the "Corporation") (TSX: MEG) is pleased to announce that at its annual meeting of shareholders held on May 6, 2025 (the "Meeting"), all resolutions were approved as follows:

Election of Directors

Each of the ten (10) nominees listed in its Management Information Circular dated March 17, 2025, were elected as directors. The results of the shares voted in respect of the election of each director are set out below.



Votes FOR Votes WITHHELD Nominee # % # % Gary A. Bosgoed 168,555,986 99.74 444,378 0.26 Darlene M. Gates 168,623,989 99.78 376,375 0.22 Robert B. Hodgins 168,030,898 99.43 969,466 0.57 Kim Lynch Proctor 167,604,840 99.17 1,395,524 0.83 Susan M. MacKenzie 164,166,787 97.14 4,833,577 2.86 Michael G. McAllister 168,873,187 99.92 127,177 0.08 Jeffrey J. McCaig 166,590,826 98.57 2,409,538 1.43 James D. McFarland 168,039,904 99.43 960,460 0.57 Diana J. McQueen 168,326,540 99.60 673,824 0.40 Robert R. Rooney 168,664,567 99.80 335,797 0.20

Appointment of Auditor

An ordinary resolution was passed approving the appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as auditor of the Corporation for the ensuing year at such remuneration as the directors of the Corporation may determine.

Votes FOR Votes WITHHELD # % # % 169,866,752 96.54 6,082,103 3.46

Approval of Unallocated Treasury-Settled Restricted Share Units

An ordinary resolution was passed approving all unallocated restricted share units under the Corporation's Treasury-Settled Restricted Share Unit Plan. The voting results were as follows:

Votes FOR Votes WITHHELD # % # % 162,564,673 96.19 6,435,691 3.81

Non-Binding Advisory Vote on Approach to Executive Compensation

An advisory resolution was passed accepting the Corporation's approach to executive compensation. The voting results were as follows:

Votes FOR Votes WITHHELD # % # % 165,031,324 97.65 3,969,040 2.35

Full voting results for the meeting are also available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

About MEG

MEG is the leading pure-play in situ thermal oil producer in Canada. Our purpose is to meet the growing demand for energy, produced safely and reliably, while generating long-term value for all our stakeholders. MEG produces, transports and sells our oil (AWB) to customers throughout North America and internationally. Our common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "MEG" (TSX: MEG).

Learn more at www.megenergy.com.

For further information, please contact:

Investor Relations

T 403.767.0515

E invest@megenergy.com

Media Relations

T 403.775.1131

E media@megenergy.com

SOURCE MEG Energy Corp.
Vast Resources Plc (VAST) ("Vast" or the "Company"), the AIM quoted mining company, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr James McFarlane as a Non-Executive Director with immediate effect.

James McFarlane is a globally experienced technical mining professional, with a strong background in UK and European mining operations. James has held senior roles in active mining operations in England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland and Australia, and also as a mining consultant supporting exploration and project development studies (Mineral Resource Estimates, Ore Reserve Estimates and Feasibility Studies), across a range of commodities worldwide including gold, copper, and other base and critical metals.

James holds a MSc from the Camborne School of Mines in Mining Geology, is a Chartered Geologist, Chartered Engineer and Registered Professional Geoscientist in the fields of Mining and Mineral Exploration. He is a Fellow of the IOM3, Geological Society of London, the Institute of Quarrying, the North of England Institute of Mining and Mechanical Engineers and is also a Member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists.

Andrew Prelea, CEO of Vast, commented:

"I'm delighted to welcome James to the Vast team. His outstanding technical credentials and wealth of experience across European and international mining projects make him an exceptional addition to our board. Following the release of the Historic Diamond Parcel, the Company is entering an exciting new chapter, and we look forward to working with James as we continue our unwavering focus on building a mid-tier mining company."

Further information on James McFarlane's appointment:

The following details in relation to the appointment of James McFarlane, are disclosed in accordance with AIM Rule 17 and Schedule 2(g) of the AIM Rules:

James Andrew Stuart McFarlane (aged 40) has held the following directorships and/or partnerships in the past five years.

Current Directorships/Partnerships Previous Directorships/Partnerships in the past 5 years None RC Mining Consultancy

James McFarlane holds no shares in the Company.

There is no further information to be disclosed in relation to James McFarlane's appointment pursuant to AIM Rule 17 or Schedule Two, paragraph (g) (i)-(viii) of the AIM Rules for Companies.

**ENDS**

For further information, visit www.vastplc.com or please contact:

Vast Resources plc

Andrew Prelea (CEO)



www.vastplc.com

+44 (0) 20 7846 0974 Strand Hanson Limited - Nominated & Financial Adviser

James Spinney / James Bellman



www.strandhanson.co.uk

+44 (0) 20 7409 3494 Shore Capital Stockbrokers Limited - Joint Broker

Toby Gibbs / James Thomas (Corporate Advisory)



www.shorecapmarkets.co.uk

+44 (0) 20 7408 4050 Axis Capital Markets Limited - Joint Broker

Richard Hutchinson



www.axcap247.com

+44 (0) 20 3206 0320 St Brides Partners Limited

Susie Geliher / Charlotte Page / Will Turner www.stbridespartners.co.uk

+44 (0) 20 7236 1177

The information contained within this announcement is deemed by the Company to constitute inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) No. 596/2014 as it forms part of United Kingdom domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, as amended by virtue of the Market Abuse (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019.

ABOUT VAST RESOURCES PLC

Vast Resources plc is a United Kingdom AIM quoted mining company with mines and projects in Romania, Tajikistan, and Zimbabwe.

In Romania, the Company is focused on the rapid advancement of high-quality projects by recommencing production at previously producing mines.

The Company's Romanian portfolio includes 100% interest in Vast Baita Plai SA which owns 100% of the producing Baita Plai Polymetallic Mine, located in the Apuseni Mountains, Transylvania, an area which hosts Romania's largest polymetallic mines. The mine has a JORC compliant Reserve & Resource Report which underpins the initial mine production life of approximately 3-4 years with an in-situ total mineral resource of 15,695 tonnes copper equivalent with a further 1.8M-3M tonnes exploration target. The Company is now working on confirming an enlarged exploration target of up to 5.8M tonnes.

The Company also owns the Manaila Polymetallic Mine in Romania, which the Company is looking to bring back into production following a period of care and maintenance. The Company has also been granted the Manaila Carlibaba Extended Exploitation Licence that will allow the Company to re-examine the exploitation of the mineral resources within the larger Manaila Carlibaba licence area.

The Company retains a continued presence in Zimbabwe. The Company is re-engaging its future investment strategy in Zimbabwe and has commenced discussions with further mining concessions in-country alongside its wider portfolio.

Vast has an interest in a joint venture company which provides exposure to a near term revenue opportunity from the Takob Mine processing facility in Tajikistan. The Takob Mine opportunity, which is 100% financed, will provide Vast with a 12.25 percent royalty over all sales of non-ferrous concentrate and any other metals produced.

Also in Tajikistan, Vast has been contracted to develop and manage the Aprelevka gold mines on behalf of its owner Gulf International Minerals Ltd ("Gulf") under which Vast is entitled, inter alia, to 10% of the earnings that Gulf receives from its 49% interest in Aprelevka in joint venture with the government of Tajikistan. Aprelevka holds four active operational mining licences located along the Tien Shan Belt that extends through Central Asia, currently producing approximately 11,600oz of gold and 116,000 oz of silver per annum. It is the intention of the Company to assist in increasing Aprelevka's production from these four mines closer to the historical peak production rates of approximately 27,000oz of gold and 250,000oz of silver per year from the operational mines.


Vancouver, May 7, 2025 - Forge Resources Corp. (CSE: FRG) (OTCQB: FRGGF) (FSE: 5YZ) ("FRG" or the "Company) is pleased to provide an operational update on enhancing accessibility and operational efficiency at the La Estrella project site through critical infrastructure upgrades, including intensive road maintenance and electrical enhancements. These improvements will enable the company to scale up to 24-hour operations, accelerating the development of the decline and boosting productivity.

Electrical Upgrades to Enable 24-Hour Operations

Forge is advancing its infrastructure with strategic electrical upgrades that will significantly enhance operational capacity and efficiency (Figure 1). As part of this initiative, electrical poles have been installed. A transformative development, these enhancements will enable the Company to transition to 24-hour operations within the coming weeks - accelerating decline development and driving productivity.

Key upgrades include:

High-performance lighting solutions - Two 200W solar floodlights and two 200W non-solar floodlights will illuminate the operational area, ensuring uninterrupted workflow.

Advanced security measures - Five strategically placed security cameras will offer superior monitoring, reinforcing site safety and oversight.

Figure 1. Arial view of site indicating the location of lighting and security upgrades

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8680/251096_cbf338ddc4a5282a_001full.jpg

Road Infrastructure Enhancements

Beginning in March, the Company launched a comprehensive road maintenance initiative to restore 10-kilometers of shared roadway leading to the project site (Figure 2 and 3). This effort is made possible through the support of the municipalities of Betulia and Zapatoca, which have contributed essential road-building machinery. Additionally, the Company has provided critical resources, materials, and a dedicated workforce to aid in the project's completion. The initiative includes widening key access points, reinforcing structural integrity, and upgrading road surfaces to support increased traffic flow and heavy equipment transport

As part of its commitment to community engagement, the Company is working closely with the municipality of Betulia to execute vital road improvements that benefit both local residents and company operations. These enhancements aim to create safer, more efficient transportation routes, fostering connectivity and long-term infrastructure resilience.

PJ Murphy, CEO, states: "These infrastructure enhancements mark a significant milestone for Forge Resources as we transition to 24-hour operations. By expanding our capabilities, we are accelerating the development of the decline, improving efficiency, and reinforcing our commitment to safety and sustainability. We appreciate the collaboration and support from our partners and local communities as we drive forward with these advancements."

Figure 2. Grading surface material in preparation for road base fill

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8680/251096_cbf338ddc4a5282a_002full.jpg

Figure 3. Workers place and compact road base material

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8680/251096_cbf338ddc4a5282a_003full.jpg

Looking Ahead

Forge Resources Corp. is excited about the momentum gained in both its decline advancement and infrastructure improvement projects. The Company extends its gratitude to its shareholders, partners, and the Beltulia community for their unwavering support and collaboration. Forge Resources remains focused on executing its development plans with diligence, transparency, and a shared vision for success.

About Forge Resources Corp.

Forge Resources Corp. is a Canadian-listed junior exploration company. The Company holds a 60% interest with a with a formalized agreement in place to acquire 80%, in Aion Mining Corp., a company that is developing the fully permitted La Estrella coal project in Santander, Colombia. La Estrella contains eight known seams of metallurgical and thermal coal. The Company also holds an option on the Alotta project, a prospective porphyry copper-gold-molybdenum project located 50 km south-east of the Casino porphyry deposit in the unglaciated portion of the Dawson Range porphyry/epithermal belt in the Yukon Territory of Canada.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain of the statements made and information contained herein may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, information concerning the Aion Acquisition. Forward-looking information is based on the views, opinions, intentions and estimates of management at the date the information is made, and is based on a number of assumptions and subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated or projected in the forward-looking information (including the actions of other parties who have agreed to do certain things and the approval of certain regulatory bodies). Many of these assumptions are based on factors and events that are not within the control of the Company and there is no assurance they will prove to be correct. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. In particular, there can be no assurance that the Proposed Transaction will be completed as described or at all. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by applicable securities laws, or to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third parties in respect of the Company, its financial or operating results or its securities. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. We seek safe harbor.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251096
VANCOUVER, May 7, 2025 - Giant Mining Corp. (CSE: BFG | OTC: BFGFF | FWB: YW5) (CSE:BFG.WT.A) ("Giant Mining" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that Hole MHB-34 ("MHB-34") was drilled to 1,963 feet (598.3 meters). MHB-34 is the third of five holes of the 2025 diamond core drilling program (the "Core Program"), currently underway at Majuba Hill Porphyry Copper-Silver-Gold Deposit ("Majuba Hill") located in Pershing County, Nevada.

Figure 1: MHB-34/1499 ft (456.9 m) Native Cu on fracture HQ Core, 2.5-inch (63.5 mm) diam.

Furthermore, the Company is pleased to announce that all Core from Hole MHB-33 ("MHB-33") which was drilled to a total depth of 936 feet (285.29 meters) has been sampled and submitted to ALS Global Services ("ALS Labs") for analysis. A previous news release dated April 8th, 2025 errantly reported a total depth of 950 feet (289.56 meters) vs the actual total depth of 936 feet (285.29 meters).



Click Image To View Full Size

Figure 2. MHB-33 Drill Location

The Company further announces Hole MHB-35 (at site PDH-DUH1) was completed to 596 feet (181.66 meters). The primary goal of the Core Program is to expand known copper mineralization at Majuba Hill and advance the project toward a new Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE").

David Greenway, CEO of Giant Mining, enthusiastically commented: "We are thrilled with the ongoing progress at Majuba Hill. As previously stated In my entire career, I've never seen drill core like what we saw at MHB-34 which was drilled to a total depth of 1,963 feet. Majuba Hill is rapidly emerging as a world-class copper, silver, and gold discovery, perfectly positioned as a vital American resource. Nevada's incredible infrastructure and mining-friendly environment only amplify this project's immense value. Giant Mining is proud to help secure America's clean energy future and achieve critical mineral supply chain independence."

Infrastructure Advantage

The Majuba Hill Project is strategically positioned within a mining-friendly jurisdiction and benefits from an infrastructure setting that is favorable for efficient project advancement. Key elements already in place include well-maintained access roads, nearby power supply, nearby transportation routes (highway and rail), and areas potentially suitable for processing, waste management, and administrative operations.

As previously reported in the March 17, 2025 news release, the 2025 Core Program has been designed to follow up on high-grade copper mineralization intersected in breccias from the 2024 core holes MHB-30 ("MHB-30") and MHB-31 ("MHB-31") and extend the high-grade copper zones below the historic underground workings (Figure 5) .



Click Image To View Full Size

Figure 3: Majuba Hill 2025 Actual and Proposed Drill Hole Locations

The Company will provide regular updates as the drill program progresses, including assay results, geological observations, and any significant developments encountered during drilling. These updates will keep shareholders and stakeholders informed on the advancement of the Majuba Hill project and its potential to support a future resource estimate.

Quality Assurance/Quality Control ("QA/QC") Measures, Chain of Custody

The Company utilizes a QA/QC program using best industry practices at the Majuba Hill Project. The samples are placed in cloth or plastic sample bags and are transported from the Majuba Hill to the Giant Mining secure warehouse for core sawing and processing and then samples are delivered to the ALS Labs sample prep facility in Elko, Nevada. ALS then transports the prepared pulps to their analytical lab in North Vancouver, B.C.

Drill core samples are sawn in half lengthwise and one half is placed in labeled cloth sample bags. All samples are analyzed for copper, gold, silver, and 33 other elements. Gold is determined by ALS Labs method Au-AA23 which is a fire assay with an AAS finish on a 30-gram split. Copper, silver, and the remaining 31 elements are determined by ALS Labs method ME-ICP61 which is a four-acid digestion and ICP-AES assay. Approximately 5% of the submitted samples are drill duplicates and copper-gold-porphyry commercial standard reference material pulps. The remaining sample pulps are retrieved from ALS Minerals and retained by the Company for future metallurgical testing.

Majuba Hill's critically important characteristics are as follows:

Location: Nevada, USA - a globally top-ranked mining jurisdiction, ranked #1 in the Fraser Institute's 2022 Annual Survey of Mining Companies. 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: 83,930 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 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

LIKE AND FOLLOW

Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

DOWNLOAD INVESTOR INFORMATION

Click Here

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, May 7, 2025 - Alliance Mining Corp. (TSXV: ALM) ("Alliance" or the "Company") reports that TiberiUS Gold Corp. ("Tiberius"), a private company, remains in breach of its obligations to the Company under a January 27, 2017 mineral property option agreement (the "Option Agreement"). The Option Agreement property comprises of 14 mineral claims located in the Bissett gold camp in Manitoba (the "Property"). Despite Alliance having completed all the option payments to acquire 100 percent of the Property, Tiberius has persisted in its refusal to transfer the mineral claims to Alliance.

Bissett - Red Rice Lake Gold Project, Manitoba

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3026/251036_6da7cd11f48eda81_001full.jpg

"Alliance Mining has honored its commitments in full. The mineral claims in question have been fully paid for, and the continued refusal to transfer title is unacceptable. Delay tactics will no longer be tolerated. We are now moving forward to secure the rightful transfer of these assets into our Company's name through all necessary legal channels," states Anderson, CEO.

As the Company reported in its press release of August 29, 2022, it has filed a Notice of Civil Claim in the Supreme Court of British Columbia (the "Claim") against Tiberius to enforce the Company's rights under the Option Agreement. The Claim seeks relief against Tiberius, principally including an order for specific performance of the Option Agreement directing that Tiberius immediately register a transfer 100% right, title and interest in and to the Property to the Company. In its response, Tiberius has denied all elements of the Company's Claim. The Company's allegations have not yet been proven in court.

Despite the Company having served its list of documents on Tiberius on February 9, 2024, and requesting that Tiberius deliver its list of documents to the Company by February 29, 2024, Tiberius has yet to serve its list of documents or to provide any other substantive response regarding its disclosure obligations. Accordingly, the Company has issued a formal demand for production of Tiberius' list of documents by May 20, 2025, failing which Alliance has instructed its counsel to bring an application for an order compelling production of the same.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD,

Chris Anderson

President, CEO & Director

Forward-Looking Statement Cautions: This press release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, including statements relating to an alleged breach of the Option Agreement (as defined above) and the Company's legal action to enforce its entitlement to the Property. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable based on current circumstances, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts, and by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions that forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made and they involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including the possibility the Company may not be successful in its legal action to enforce the performance of the Option Agreement.

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. 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, except as required by law or the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange. Readers are encouraged to review the Company's complete public disclosure record on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Alliance Mining Corp.

888 Dunsmuir Street - Suite 888, Vancouver, B.C., V6C 3K4

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251036
When you see homeless people in the movies, they're usually part of a funny interaction or serve as a quick, somber reminder of just how hard life can be. Rarely are they -- or their stories -- given more than a few minutes of screen time.That's partially what makes "The Florida Project" -- which film critics are already comparing to last year's Best Picture, "Moonlight" -- stand out.The movie's main character is a six-year-old girl, Moonee, and her single mom, Halley, who live in an Orlando-area budget motel. Moonee and Halley are the "hidden homeless," Americans who don't have enough money to secure permanent housing but manage to avoid sleeping in shelters or on the streets.The story mostly follows Moonee as she and her friends entertain themselves one summer with wandering adventures through the neighborhood. But the movie has a gloomier subplot where Halley can't find a job, faces the threat of eviction, relies on food donations to get by and is forced to deal with child protection services.Although the protagonists are perpetually in a financial crisis, their plight is not the film's sole focus. It is as much about how they manage to form bonds with their neighbors, have fun and be happy.spoke with Sean Baker, the director and co-writer, about the making of the film and what he wants audiences to take away from it. The following interview has been edited for clarity and length.When I was doing research, speaking to the residents of these motels, their circumstances were very difficult, but they were still living their lives. They were still able to laugh. There was still joy. This is, you know, what makes us human.So, when I see films that are covering this sort of subject matter and theyre weighed down in melodrama, it comes across to me as 100 percent untruthful and slightly condescending. It was very important to me to approach this in a way where there was comedy. Im asking audiences to laugh along with these kids. Im doing this because I want to reach a greater audience. If it reaches a greater audience, perhaps more people will be aware of this issue of the hidden homeless.Chris Bergoch [a co-writer] and I took the time to interview and befriend people in the community -- residents at the motels, managers, local business owners and the agencies that provide social services to the homeless. It was really just about collecting as many stories and details as possible so that we felt comfortable writing a fictionalized screenplay. We had to get to the point where we felt we understood the world enough where we felt we were representing it in a proper way.Yes, definitely. Its, of course, very subjective. We really dont know how much a child absorbs or is aware, but that balancing act that we took while making this film was always about playing with exactly how much she would be aware of.Thats exactly what we wanted: conflict. Ive heard audience members say, Best mother ever. I wish my mom gave me this love. This is an injustice whats happened. Ive heard the extreme on the other side, which is, Thank god, child protection has shown up. They needed to get her out of there.Im not trying to sway opinion one way or the other because thats why we made her character flawed. Were not sanctifying her; were making her human.But I hope audiences will at least be mature enough to be empathetic. If they look at Halleys situation, she was probably 15 years old when she had Moonee -- no formal education, no family support whatsoever, no father figure for Moonee, so no child support. Shes unemployable. She has a criminal record. So, shes basically in a place where she has no choice but to turn to the underground economy, and shes unfortunately a kid who had a kid. She might be street smart, but thats it. She has no other choices, and shes never had the opportunity to mature.As long as people can see this, and then say, "I dont condone her actions," perhaps "I cant even comprehend her actions, but I at least understand why shes been driven to this point," thats my goal.Its about putting that human face on the issue and removing the stigma. What were hoping audiences will do, if they love Moonee, is think about the real Moonees and the real Halleys out there and the fact that its not just the Orlando area that needs help. Its a nationwide issue. Look into your own community because it could be happening under your nose, and you dont know it.If awareness is brought to it, stigma starts to be removed, and then hopefully people will be motivated to help. Thats all I can really do.
The movieis a hard one to forget. Its often judged to be one of the great courtroom dramas of all time, even though the action isnt in a courtroom. It takes place in a cramped, sweltering jury chamber. Eleven of the 12 jurors are determined to send a teenage boy to the electric chair for stabbing his father to death. Only Henry Fonda, in the role of a stubborn and idealistic architect who sees flaws in the evidence, believes in the boys innocence. One by one, he convinces all 11 of his opponents to see it his way, including a bitter, irrational and hot-tempered Juror No. 3, who bizarrely links the defendant to his own estranged son. After ranting angrily against Fonda, this juror breaks down in tears, changes his vote and the boy goes free.Nearly everyone who watches this film comes away awed by the architects heroism, and also satisfied that the American jury system works as it was designed to. It may take time and some distasteful moments, but in the end justice wins out.Ive watched this movie more than once, and I react a little differently. I admire the architects courage and persistence, but I cant help reflecting on the enormity of the task the legal process has forced on him. He cant afford to lose a single vote. If Juror No. 3 had remained intransigent (which seems to me the more probable outcome in real life), the result would have been a hung jury, a new trial and very likely a conviction for murder. Does it really need to be unanimous? Is it possible that 10-2 or 11-1 might produce a larger number of fair results? Im not saying it would; Im just saying its not a totally crazy question.As all of us know, the American legal system rarely asks this question. It is based virtually everywhere on the principle that no one should be convicted of a felony without a unanimous verdict. Only two states, Louisiana and Oregon, permit juries to render decisions with 10 or 11 votes out of 12.By the end of this year, the number of renegade states will probably be down to one. In May, Louisiana state Sen. J.P. Morrell succeeded in winning legislative approval of a constitutional amendment that would ban 10-2 and 11-1 guilty verdicts and conform the state to the principle of unanimity. The voters seem likely to go along in November.To say that the amendment has a broad range of elite support is to understate the case. The states major media are all on board, andhas weighed in. Majority rule is good when it comes to the democratic process, theeditorialized recently, but its not enough when someones constitutional rights and liberty are at stake. Other prominent supporters of the change include not only the American Bar Association and liberal advocacy groups such as the American Civil Liberties Union but also the Koch brothers Americans for Prosperity and the Christian Family Forum at the other end of the ideological spectrum. The only organized opponents have been the states prosecuting attorneys.To understand why this broad-based coalition exists, all you have to do is glance at the history of the Louisiana jury system. The state government and legal establishment approved the use of split verdicts in 1898 because they feared the impact of African-American jurors empowered by the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.The establishment made no bones about this. Some years earlier, the New Orleanshad declared that newly emancipated black citizens were wholly ignorant of the responsibilities of jurors, unable to discriminate between truth and falsehood in testimony, and capable only of being corrupted by bribes. If one or two African-Americans ended up on a jury, it would be necessary to outvote them. So the legislature decided to permit guilty verdicts of 9-3, 10-2 or 11-1. In 1974, the law was changed to make 10 votes the threshold.Critics of the existing law link it to the fact that Louisiana in recent years has had the highest incarceration rate in the United States. Its been estimated that about 2,000 convicts are currently serving life sentences in Louisiana prisons on the basis of split verdicts.Louisianas racist heritage is more than sufficient to explain its jury law. But whats Oregons reason? Thats an interesting story, too. Oregon began allowing guilty verdicts with 10 votes in 1934, after a Jewish defendant named Jacob Silverman was acquitted of first-degree murder and ultimately served only three years for manslaughter because one lone juror held out for him. This sounds like a 12 Angry Men situation, but it was nothing like that. Silvermans light sentence, in the wake of powerful circumstantial evidence against him, triggered a backlash toward Jews and immigrants and a statewide referendum that initiated split verdicts to dilute the influence of immigrant jurors.The only current difference between the Louisiana and Oregon rules is that Oregon doesnt permit split verdicts in murder cases. For all other felonies, it does. The Oregon law has been challenged in federal court numerous times, including last year in a petition to the Supreme Court, but without success. The court has declined to reconsider a 1972 ruling that split-verdict systems in state courts are constitutional.But how serious a problem are split-verdict systems? The origins of such laws are offensive, but they arent in themselves sufficient to discredit the practice. Louisiana is still far from being a paragon of social justice, but African-Americans are eligible to serve on juries in reasonable proportion to their presence in the population and to insist on fair treatment when they get there. The real argument against split-verdict juries is that they tend to marginalize dissenters of all colors and creeds, because their votes are not needed when they are one or two against 10 or 11.The Baton Rougehas done some excellent research on this point and taken powerful testimony. A juror in a kidnapping case said that no one told me it was a 10-2 state. There was no attempt to change my mind. It was over and I was like, I dont know what just happened here.The newspaper found that split verdicts were 30 percent more common in cases where the defendant was black. African-American jurors were more than twice as likely to be on the dissenting side of a split verdict as their white counterparts. For many critics of the system, these numbers alone suggest residual racism. Strictly speaking, however, they arent a smoking gun -- they dont prove that split verdicts are in themselves a miscarriage of justice.One reason its possible to question the sacred status of the unanimity requirement is that we are living in a time when notions of jury nullification are an unavoidable part of the legal system and the trial process. Nullification in American courts goes back to the 18th century, when the printer John Peter Zenger was acquitted in a landmark libel case because a jury found his published words to be true, even though the law expressly said truth was no defense. The jury found the law unjust.In the centuries since then, millions of words have been written on the topic of when jurors are entitled to dispense with the law in the interest of what they consider to be higher justice. Many commentators have said this is permissible when the law or the trial is blatantly discriminatory. But what if a juror isnt concerned with the facts of the case? What if she believes the entire legal system -- or the whole society -- is tainted by racism, sexism or a disregard for individual liberty? Does that mean she can refuse to consider the evidence and free a guilty defendant?Some very smart lawyers think so. Paul Butler, a professor at Georgetown University Law School, has been making this case for more than two decades. If [jurors] think that the police are treating African-Americans unfairly, by engaging in racial profiling or using excessive force, Butler wrote a few years ago, they dont have to convict, even if they think the defendant is guilty.The arguments for nullification have become louder in the past few years amid the growing distrust of police tactics. Nullification T-shirts are easy to purchase online. Any controversial criminal trial is likely to generate at least a few protesters proudly wearing them.Todays nullifiers may be reviving a long-standing tradition in American jurisprudence. But just one of them on a jury can block a defendants conviction even in the face of the strongest evidence. Orin Kerr, a law professor at the University of Southern California, raised this issue eloquently in 2015. The evidence can be overwhelming, Kerr wrote, and 11 of the jurors can believe fervently that a particular case is the most compelling prosecution ever brought. But a single juror, accountable to no one, can put the kibosh on the case based on his own vision of justice that may have no connection to anyone elses. We dont normally think of placing all the power in one unelected person who answers to no one as a democratically accountable approach.I dont expect that state courts in this country will ever go back to 10-2, or 11-1. We have made a decision for mandatory unanimous verdicts (unlike England or Scotland, incidentally) and that decision has broad public support, even in Louisiana. Im just suggesting that this issue, like virtually all issues in American jurisprudence, is a bit more complicated than it may seem at first.
Ferrari-Hamilton pairing not balanced?

Lewis Hamilton insists he will not apologise for his outspokenness on the radio during the Miami GP.

Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, Miami GP 2025

 Ferrari

On track, the seven time world champion is conspicuously struggling to adapt to Ferrari, having spent his entire ultra-successful career with Mercedes-powered cars.

One of his difficulties, however, is communication-related, as he has clashed with Sebastian Vettel and Carlos Sainz's former race engineer Riccardo Adami several times already in 2025.

The understanding between Hamilton and Adami remains elusive, La Repubblica newspaper reports. Since the first Sunday in Melbourne, there has been a lot of friction and tension.

Also notable is that, in Miami, Hamilton reminisced on social media about his long and successful collaboration with his former race engineer at Mercedes, Peter Bonnington, who now works with Kimi Antonelli.

I saw the video of Bono and Kimi and Toto (Wolff), the 40-year-old explained, and it genuinely just brought warmth to my heart. Bono is just the best.

In contrast, La Gazzetta dello Sport journalist Arianna Ravelli insists that, so far, the combination of Hamilton, Ferrari and Adami is not very balanced .

The Englishman needed Ferrari more, she wrote. "Given his age, Ferrari's vision can only be described as short-term.

How beautiful would it have been to dream of a new Kimi in red?

When asked how he felt about missing out on signing the teenaged Italian Antonelli, Ferrari's executive chairman John Elkann joked: Perhaps when he's 40.

La Gazzetta's Ravelli, meanwhile, thinks the spotlight should also be starting to shine on the underperformance as team boss of Frederic Vasseur.

What went wrong? she asked. "After the (Mattia) Binotto era, the mantra at Maranello was 'Let Vasseur cook'. So was it the wrong ingredients or does the chef need to brush up on Masterchef?

As for his clashes with Adami in Miami, 40-year-old Hamilton insists: I still have the fire in me and I'm not going to apologise for being a fighter. I'm not going to apologise for wanting to win.

(GMM)
FIA president suggests scrapping F1 budget cap

The FIA's controversial president has floated the idea of completely abandoning the budget cap in Formula 1.

Lego cars

 McLaren

Not long ago, Mohammed Ben Sulayem dropped a bomb in the F1 paddock by suggesting that screaming V10 engines powered by sustainable fuel could be the sport's next move.

But now, five years into the measure that was introduced by his predecessor Jean Todt in 2021, Ben Sulayem suggests the spending brakes should be released.

I'm looking at the cost cap and it's just giving the FIA a headache, he told AP News. "So what's the point of it?

I don't see the point. I really don't.

Although certain spending is excluded from the cap, it began at $145 million in 2021 and then reduced to its current effective limit of around $135-140 million this season.

The Associated Press also quoted Ben Sulayem, whose current presidential term runs out late this year, as saying that while he's open to changing the driver code of conduct, swearing will continue to be penalised.

Indeed, in Miami last weekend, GPDA co-director George Russell expressed scepticism about Ben Sulayem's social media post that indicated he would be easing the swearing clampdown.

Obviously we want to see these things put into action rather than saying 'we're considering things', said the Mercedes driver. "You know, we all consider a lot of things.

So those words don't mean anything until the change has been made.

(GMM)
Horner rumours follow Oakes Alpine resignation

Rumours are already swirling after Alpine team boss Oliver Oakes suddenly resigned.

Christian Horner, Miami GP 2025

 Red Bull

The very next day after multiple international publications reported that Jack Doohan is set to be dumped in favour of Franco Colapinto, it emerged that Oakes is also heading for the exit.

As of today, Flavio Briatore will continue as executive advisor and will also be covering the duties previously performed by Oliver Oakes, a team statement read.

The statement, which came before Alpine officially announced the five-race Colapinto deal, ended by warning the media that no further comment will be forthcoming.

Some see a clear connection between Oakes' resignation and the likely Doohan-Colapinto swap, as there had been rumours of disagreement over the matter between Oakes and Briatore in Miami.

So one theory is that with Oakes departing, the path is now clear for Colapinto's Alpine debut at Imola next weekend.

Tellingly, the heavily-sponsored Argentinean rookie is testing a two-year-old Alpine at Zandvoort on Thursday.

Another concurrent rumour is that Oakes may have been head-hunted by the controlling Thai faction of the energy drink Red Bull to replace Christian Horner.

The Italian publication Autosprint speculates that the upgrade package for Max Verstappen's car at Imola could be Horner's last chance to hold onto his job.

The Thai faction saved Horner in early 2024, Italian outlet Formula Passion said. That Thai support now seems to be disappearing.

Fascinatingly, while Dr Helmut Marko has been talking up the Imola upgrade as a potential turning-point, team boss Horner has been playing it down.

There is no big update for Imola, Horner said in Miami. "I don't know where that's come from.

We're at the stage of these regulations where it's all incremental gains.

As for Colapinto, Alpine advisor Briatore said the Argentine 21-year-old is only guaranteed the seat for five races - meaning Doohan could return.

The 2026 season will be an important one for the team and having a complete and fair assessment of the drivers this season is the right thing to do in order to maximise our ambitions next year, he said.

(GMM)
Media certain Colapinto replacing Doohan at Imola

A growing number of highly-authoritative international media sources are claiming that Jack Doohan has contested his final Formula 1 race for now.

Franco Colapinto, Las Vegas GP 2024

 Williams

The list suggesting the Australian rookie has been told he will be replaced by Franco Colapinto at Imola next time out is truly impressive.

Those publications include L'Equipe (France), Bild and RTL (Germany), the BBC (UK), Ole (Argentina), De Telegraaf (The Netherlands) and more.

The news had already shifted into a higher gear prior to Miami, when the president of Colapinto's major sponsor YPF - the Argentine state-owned oil company - let slip in a hot-mic moment that the 21-year-old would be racing in Imola .

However, before the Miami GP on Sunday, Alpine's powerful advisor Flavio Briatore said of Colapinto: He's our reserve driver. Reserve, reserve, reserve.

At the same time, though, rumours were also swirling that Briatore was in the process of negotiating a tripling of the money already flowing into Alpine's coffers by Colapinto's multiple backers.

The unfortunate Doohan, under pressure, never made himself untouchable, said L'Equipe correspondent Frederic Ferret. He accumulated racing incidents, like the one on Sunday, giving extra power to this new way of managing F1 drivers, like disposable handkerchiefs, without ever giving them time to acclimatise.

(GMM)
Verstappen shrugs off Norris' middle finger

Lando Norris pointed the middle finger at Max Verstappen on Sunday, but it's the second McLaren raced by Oscar Piastri who is beginning to run away with 2025.

Max Verstappen, Miami GP 2025

 Red Bull

Red Bull's Verstappen started from pole in Miami, but team advisor Dr Helmut Marko acknowledges the reality of the situation.

Max showed his magic on one lap, he said. But in the race we saw how far behind McLaren we are. We are talking about seven tenths of a second.

It was Piastri who emerged with his third consecutive grand prix win, and now a 16-point advantage over Norris - but Norris vented his fury at his friend Verstappen.

Onboard footage showed Norris displaying the middle finger at the quadruple world champion following the latest feisty wheel-to-wheel battle.

It's the way it is with Max - it's crash or don't pass, said the Briton. But he's ruining his own race. He's not racing very smart.

Verstappen, however, hit back by insisting he was simply resigned to finishing behind those with clearly superior pace. Of course I tried a few things with those McLarens, said the Dutchman, "because I have nothing to lose.

A bit of fun, because I can't make much else of it.

He said he wasn't even interested in Red Bull's unsuccessful protest against a yellow flag incident involving George Russell, which could have elevated Verstappen to P3.

It doesn't really matter whether you finish third or fourth, Verstappen insisted. That's not why I'm here. At one point I thought 'never mind - I'll go home soon'.

As for Norris' middle-finger and verbal complaints about Verstappen's racing style, and the ongoing reputation as a 'bad guy', the Red Bull driver denied it affects him.

Why? Is that a problem? he told Viaplay.

I defend myself with the means at my disposal, just like every other Formula 1 driver.

(GMM)
Previous article: Its a new government but same old challenges with creative sector

Iranian Cultural attache Dr Amir visits National Theatre

Graphic Showbiz Showbiz News May - 07 - 2025 , 16:13 2 minutes read

Dr. Amir Heshmati, the cultural attache of the Iranian embassy in Ghana has paid a courtesy visit to the National Theatre to acquaint himself with the operations of the Theatre.

The meeting between Dr Amir and the Executive Director of National Theatre, Henry Malm aimed to gain insight into the Theatre's current activities and initiatives and also to discuss enhancing bilateral relations through cultural cooperation.

During his visit to the National Theatre, Dr. Amir Heshmati, engaged in fruitful discussions with Mr. Henry Malm, exploring potential avenues for collaboration and mutual exchange between Ghana and Iran.

Both parties expressed a strong mutual interest in collaborating on programmes designed to promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation between the two nations.

The discussions centered around facilitating opportunities for the National Theatre and Iranian artistes to work together, share knowledge, and learn from each other's rich cultural heritage.

Mr. Henry Malm expressed his commitment to facilitating and ensuring a smooth cooperation between the two parties, paving the way for a potential partnership that could yield meaningful results.

In a gesture of cultural exchange, two of the National Theatre's resident groups, the National Drama Company and the National Symphony Orchestra, showcased their exceptional talents by entertaining the cultural attache during his visit.

This warm reception not only highlighted the rich cultural diversity of Ghana but also highlighted the potential for a strong partnership between Ghana and Iran in the arts.
Stage acting is more difficult than on-screen  Actor Bern Khobby

Jessica Love Otoo Showbiz News May - 07 - 2025 , 08:30 3 minutes read

FOR more than two hours, actor Bern Khobby sustained the attention of his audience as he sang, danced and acted all by himself in Kobina Ansahs, latest play, Saints in A Devil Shoes, a monologue recently staged at the National Theatre.

And the ease with which he did it, one would think it came easily to him, but Bern Khobby reveals it was no walk in the park for him.

He admitted that it was tough holding the attention of the audience for over two hours, it required him to master his cues, stay energetic, and connect deeply with the audience to keep the performance engaging and believable.

Sharing his insight into the world of acting, Bern Khobby disclosed that stage plays offered a more intense experience compared to on-screen acting.

According to Khobby, the immediacy of live theatre, where actors and audience share the same space, created a unique energy that was hard to replicate in film or television and even worse in a monologue where one had to hold the attention of the audience for hours.

The connection with the audience is direct and palpable. Every performance is a one-time experience, and the energy of the crowd can either elevate or challenge you. It's a thrilling experience that keeps you on your toes.

Unlike on-screen acting, where scenes can be retaken and edited, stage plays demand perfection in the moment, he said in an interview with Graphic Showbiz on Monday, April 28.

Bern Khobby said when on stage, one could not afford to forget lines or miss a cue, adding that the adrenaline rush that came with live performances was unmatched and that was what attracted him to stage plays over and over again.

When you're on stage, you can't afford to forget your lines or miss a cue. Its very intense, and so I was excited with the positive reviews I had after my monologue in Saints in A Devil Shoes.

Stage and screen acting are both difficult. I believe that if you truly understand acting and want to become a great, experienced, and method actor, then you need to have stage experience. Hollywood stars such as Denzel Washington still do stage plays.

Theres no room for mistakes, and you cant check your script. You must memorise your lines, your movements, everything. The process is intense and heavy, he added.

Bern Khobby played Sika Blankson, a man who shares his struggles with debt, a failed marriage, and personal loss while hiding from debt collectors in a house that once belonged to a deceased classmate in the Saints in the Devils Shoes, a one-man musical stage play written by Kobina Ansah and produced by Scribe Productions.

He admitted that it was tough holding the attention of the audience for over two hours.

The story and the script are very good, and that helped me because trust me, if one person is talking for two hours, it can get boring. But you need full energy, you have no opportunity to drop your energy. If you do, you lose your audience.

When asked how he managed to sing, dance, and act all by himself, he laughed and attributed his success to the grace of God, passion, hard work, determination, and an unwavering commitment to see his endeavours through to a successful end.

Bern Khobby has featured in several screen and stage productions including With You Every Moment, Dede, Madam, To Have and To Hold, Finding Daisy, and He Said She Said. The Saints in the Devils Shoes is his fourth play with Scribe Productions.

In addition to acting, Bern Khobby also sings, is an MC, a model, and an insurance sales and marketing representative.
Previous article: Who will replace Pope Francis? These cardinals stand out in the conclave

Election of new Pope: Kenya's cardinal to miss papal vote because of ill health

Graphic.com.gh International News May - 07 - 2025 , 14:15 2 minutes read

The Catholic Church in Kenya has responded to concerns that the country's only cardinal will not be participating in the election of the next pope because he had not been asked to attend.

Following Pope Francis' death last month, senior Catholic leaders, known as cardinals, who are younger than 80, are eligible to elect his successor.

They are due to begin meeting in the Vatican on Wednesday. However, Kenyan Cardinal, John Njue, 79, was quoted in a Kenyan newspaper as saying that he had not been invited and he did not know why.

Catholic officials in Kenya later said that he had been invited but was not able to go because of ill health.

"Although [the cardinal] is eligible to participate and was officially invited... owing to his current health condition, [he] will be unable to travel to Rome," a statement signed by Archbishop Philip Anyolo said.

"Let us also continue to pray for the good health of His Eminence John Cardinal Njue."

The archbishop did not explain the health issues further.

Tuesday's statement by the Nairobi archdiocese noted that it was reacting to concerns over Cardinal Njue's participation and "various enquiries" about whether he would be at the cardinals' meeting, known as a conclave.

The Daily Nation newspaper had quoted him as saying that he had not been invited, adding that "it is not because of health... I don't know really... it's difficult to comment about it".

Cardinal Njue was the Archbishop of Nairobi from 2007 until his retirement in 2021.

He was appointed a cardinal in 2007 by Pope Benedict XVI, becoming the second cardinal to have come from the country.

He and Spain's Cardinal Antonio Canizares, 79, are the only cardinals who will not be participating in the papal vote, out of the 135 who are eligible.

Related Articles:

133 Cardinals arrive in Rome to elect new pope

Trump criticised after posting AI image of himself as Pope
Previous article: Election of new Pope: Kenya's cardinal to miss papal vote because of ill health

Togolese opposition leader rejects Gnassingbe's new role

Graphic.com.gh International News May - 07 - 2025 , 14:09 1 minute read

The opposition in Togo has denounced the controversial appointment of the President of the Republic as head of a new powerful executive body.

On Saturday, Faure Gnassingbe, who has been in power since 2005 following the death of his father, was granted the new title of President of the Council of Ministers by Parliament.

In this role, he holds increased powers, including the possibility of being re-elected indefinitely for a six-year term by the MPs.

Opponents have condemned the appointment as a "constitutional coup", which they say could mark yet another setback for democracy in a region already plagued by military coups.

A coalition of political parties and civil society groups in Togo pledged on Monday to ramp up both national and international pressure on President Faure Gnassingbe.  AFRICANEWS

Related Article: New post for Togo President Gnassingbe could see him rule for life




Trump offers illegal immigrants $1,000 to 'self-deport'

bbc.com International News May - 07 - 2025 , 14:00 2 minutes read

The US government is offering migrants who are in the country illegally a sum worth $1,000 (751) and paid travel if they decide to leave the US.

"Self-deportation is the best, safest and most cost-effective way to leave the United States to avoid arrest," Homeland Security Secretary, Kristi Noem, said in Monday's announcement.

Those who take up the offer could one day be offered a legal pathway to return to the US, Trump told reporters the same day.

Since returning to the office in January, the president has launched a major crackdown on illegal immigration, at times relying on controversial tactics such as the invocation of a centuries-old wartime law. Some moves have faced legal challenges.

Those who signed up for the "self-deportation" financial incentive would not be prioritised for detention by immigration officials, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said in a news release.

The DHS said a first "illegal alien" had already taken up the offer, receiving a ticket for a flight from Chicago to Honduras.

The scheme relies on migrants utilising the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Home app, which can be used to confirm a person's return to their home country, officials explained in their release.

They described the offer as a "dignified" route, adding that it would cut the cost of deportations for the DHS. The average cost to arrest, detain, and deport a migrant currently stands at more than $17,000, they said.

The plan has also faced criticism. Adriano Espaillat, a Dominican-American congressman for the Democratic Party, wrote on X: "We don't bribe people to leave. We build a country where everyone belongs."

The president and his allies have touted their track record on immigration after three months in office, highlighting the fact that illegal crossings have dropped.

Border Patrol data showed a record low of just over 7,000 arrests at the US-Mexico border during March.
Four granted GH52m bail in alleged cocaine smuggling case

Justice Agbenorsi May - 07 - 2025 , 14:51 3 minutes read

An Accra Circuit Court has granted bail to four individuals charged with allegedly attempting to export narcotic drugs.

The accused  Gariba Soli, Josiah Biney, Emmanuel Minta, and Kwabena Ampofo Anti  were each granted bail in the sum of GH13 million, with four sureties, three of whom must be justified.

The bail was granted by the presiding judge, Sedinam Awo Kwadam, following a bail application by lawyers for the accused.

As part of the bail conditions, one of the sureties must provide justification with a landed property valued at GH1 million, while two others must be civil servants earning not less than GH5,000 per month.

The four accused persons have pleaded not guilty to charges including attempted exportation of narcotic drugs without a licence, conspiracy to commit a crime, possession of narcotic drugs without lawful authority, and further conspiracy charges.

Background

According to the prosecution, on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, authorised officers at the Export Section of the Swissport Cargo Terminal conducted a routine physical inspection of outbound cargo destined for Brussels, Belgium.

During the process, the officers intercepted three packages, packed in wooden boxes, on suspicion of concealing narcotic substances and en route to the Netherlands.

Initial examination of the packages revealed assorted wooden artefacts, with no incriminating items. However, upon emptying and scanning the boxes, the scanned images indicated false compartments had been created within each box.

These compartments were deconstructed and were found to contain a total of 73 compressed slabs of a suspected narcotic substance.

Substance

When opened, a sample slab revealed a whitish powdery substance, which subsequently tested positive for cocaine.

All four suspects were arrested and taken to the headquarters of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) for further investigation.

During preliminary investigations, the suspects denied knowledge of the concealed drugs. However, under interrogation, Soli  identified as the shipper of the intercepted packages  stated that he had been engaged by an individual named Patrick to export the artefacts to the Netherlands on his behalf.

Soli said he had been working with a representative of Patrick in Ghana, known only as Onik and Imex, since January 2025.

He disclosed that the three wooden boxes were delivered to him by Onik at the premises of the Art Exhibition Centre.

Soli further explained that he, along with his colleagues, had loaded the empty boxes with assorted wooden artefacts, sealed them with nails, and sent them to Swissport.

He added that the packages remained with the freight agents, Ansahdys Shipping & Logistics, until he was invited to witness the examination of the cargo  at which point he was arrested.

The suspected narcotic substances will be forwarded to the Ghana Standards Authority for analytical testing and reporting.
Central Region elects new GNAFF officers

Ezekiel E. Sottie May - 07 - 2025 , 09:57 3 minutes read

The Central Regional Branch of the Ghana National Association of Farmers and Fishermen (GNAFF) has elected new executive members to steer the affairs of the association for the next four years.

The election was conducted by the Electoral Commission in Cape Coast.

The newly elected Chairman to lead the group is Abraham Dwuma Odoom, a former Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, with Ishmael Oji Bassey as his Vice Chairman.

The Secretary, Financial Secretary, Treasurer, Organiser, Womens Organiser and Youth Organiser positions went to Asare Dapaah, Clement Sarfo, Shirley Ankrah, Mas-x Afraid Annoh, Charlotte Bernklu and Richard Anane Gyesi, respectively.

A Financial Economist and Policy Analyst, who doubles as the Head of the Trade Finance and Treasury at Wilmar International for West and North Africa, Dr Peter Kwesi Terkper, who addressed the members, said the GNAFF was a very important association in the development agenda of Ghana and needed to position itself to strategically help feed the nation per its slogan of feeding the nation.

Need for collaboration

He said as farmers and fishermen, they could not do it alone and, therefore, needed collaboration with the government to succeed.

The GNAFF is one association that has its structures from the top to the grassroots, where it has leaders from the national level through the regions and then to the various assemblies across the country.

The association has been on low key for some time now, however, Im sure the current restructuring is going to revamp the association to reclaim its past dynamism and everyone must, therefore, be committed in their various spheres to help revive the association, Dr Terkper emphasised.

He explained that looking at the data available, the GNAFF is probably the largest within the trade union, considering the number of people involved in farming, fishing and other related activities and as a country, we needed to pay much attention to the GNAFF activities seriously in our interest.

The Deputy Central Regional Director of Fisheries, Sardie Amartey, who represented the regional director, said two issues that the Fisheries Commission had been battling with in the region were Irregulated, Unregulated and Unreported (IUU) cases of the use of dynamite and unapproved mesh in the fishing activities by the fisherfolks.

He said there was a need for the fisherfolk to always observe the rules and regulations, both locally and internationally.

The newly elected Central Regional Chairman for the GNAFF, Abraham Dwuma Odoom, on behalf of the new executive members, thanked the Central Regional GNAFF for the confidence reposed in them to lead the Association for the next four years.

He said as much as they had accepted the various offices, it behoved the regional association to support them in whatever ways possible for the entire GNAFF in the region to succeed.
Next article: How 2 Ghanaian women were tricked with marriage to white men and kidnapped in Nigeria

Daily Graphics Timothy Ngnenbe wins top environment reporting award

Justice Agbenorsi May - 07 - 2025 , 07:57 3 minutes read

A senior reporter at the Daily Graphic, Timothy Ngnenbe, has been adjudged the best news reporter for his exceptional environmental reporting in terms of galamsey at the Media Freedom Coalition (MFC) Awards 2025 held in Accra last Monday.

His story, "Killer galamsey pits: how young couple lost twins", emerged as the best news report after beating off competition from several other applicants from the print, broadcast and online media.

The winning story highlighted how a young couple lost their twins at Morkwa, a farming community in the Twifo Atti-Morkwa District in the Central Region, after they fell into an uncovered galamsey pit.

The story threw more light on other instances of untimely deaths from uncovered galamsey pits and called on duty bearers to take steps to halt illegal mining while taking steps to reclaim degraded landscapes.

Event

The MFC brings together 51 countries from six continents to promote media freedom through advocacy, diplomatic interventions, legal reforms, events and funding.

As part of this year's World Media Freedom Day, the German Embassy and the British High Commission launched the MFC Awards for journalists who report on the environment in Ghana to apply.

Apart from Mr Ngnenbe, two journalists from the Fourth Estate, Seth Bokpe and Edmund Agyeman Boateng, jointly won the Long Report category of the awards, while Clara Mlano of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) won the best long report for broadcast.

The awards ceremony

The plaques for winners were presented at the World Press Freedom Day reception held at the Residence of the German Ambassador, Daniel Krull.

The event was organised by the German Embassy in collaboration with the British High Commission and attended by the leadership of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), the Minister of Government Communications, Felix Ofosu Kwakye; members of the Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey, including its Convener, Dr Kenneth Ashigbey; civil society organisations (CSOs) in the environment space, and a section of journalists.

Also present at the event were the Chairperson of the National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE), Kathleen Addy, and the acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse.

Capacity building

At the event, Prof. Klutse commended the awardees for their invaluable contribution to environmental stewardship and called for more support to journalists to put the spotlight on environmental crimes.

She said since environmental protection was a shared responsibility, she would work closely with the media to create awareness and educate members of the public on best practices within the environmental space.

Particularly, she said the EPA was committed to training journalists on environmental reporting to help deal with galamsey.

She underscored the need for all stakeholders to get involved in the galamsey fight to ensure that water bodies were made clean and forests restored.

For her part, Ms Addy said the media had been phenomenal in the galamsey fight as journalists had done well to get people to understand issues surrounding the menace.

However, she said the work of journalists needed to be augmented by community members taking action against galamsey.

"When communities come together to work against galamsey in their area, no powerful forces can be powerful enough to defeat them," she said.

Safety issues

An environmental investigative journalist with the Multi-Media Group, Erastus Asare Donkor, said journalism had done a lot in terms of public education and advocacy for policy change and strengthening of regulations on the environment.

He said although the work by journalists was not at the desired level, the media deserved commendation for their unflinching role in the galamsey fight.

"We want to get to the point where about 80 per cent of media houses are consistently talking about galamsey," he said, urging more journalists to venture into environmental reporting.

Mr Donkor called on the government to provide security for journalists to report on galamsey without fear.
How 2 Ghanaian women were tricked with marriage to white men and kidnapped in Nigeria

Kweku Zurek May - 07 - 2025 , 07:16 3 minutes read

Two Ghanaian women have been rescued after falling victim to a romance scam that led to their kidnapping in Nigeria, in a case that has shocked the public and triggered cross-border investigations involving security agencies in Ghana and Nigeria.

The victims, Anastasia Baidoo Arthur and Evelyn Konadu, were lured into Nigeria under the guise of marriage proposals from men they believed to be white foreigners, only to be abducted and assaulted upon arrival.

At a press briefing on Tuesday, the Director General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), DCOP Lydia Yaako Donkor, detailed how the women were deceived by a criminal syndicate operating under fake identities online.

These suspects met the two victims, Anastasia Baidoo Arthur and Evelyn Konadu through their Facebook accounts. The suspects posed as white men who wanted to marry the victims. The two unsuspecting victims became convinced and accepted the marriage proposals, DCOP Donkor disclosed.

The victims travelled separately but arrived on the same day, April 22, 2025, at a pre-arranged location in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, where they were immediately kidnapped.

According to police investigations, the suspects  Peter Okoye, 31, Paulinus Chidokwe, 35, Chinoso Okafor, 35, and Christian Emeka  carried out the abduction. Okoye and Emeka, both Nigerians with prior ties to Ghana, had previously been involved in the operations of QNET in Ghana before returning to Nigeria. Emeka returned to Ghana again in 2024 before the kidnapping plot was executed.

DCOP Donkor explained that the group was part of a broader syndicate engaged in romance scams in both Ghana and Nigeria. Peter Okoye, Christian Emeka and Basil Okonkwo, all Nigerians were into romance scam in Nigeria and Ghana, she noted.

After kidnapping the victims, the suspects subjected them to brutal treatment. The victims were stripped, tied up, and assaulted with machetes. They were also threatened with death, wrapped in bedsheets, had their heads covered with black polythene, and were told they would be hanged using nylon ropes.

The ordeal was recorded on video and circulated on social media. Copies were also sent to the victims families with a ransom demand of GH500,000 for each victim.

Videos of the torture were shared widely on social media and used as a tool to extort families, DCOP Donkor revealed. Before the arrests, GH18,000 had already been transferred via mobile money to various accounts linked to the suspects.

With assistance from Ghanas National Signals Bureau (NSB) and the Nigeria Police Force, the victims were eventually rescued and eight suspects were arrested from hideouts in both countries.

The Ghana Police Service is collaborating closely with Nigerian authorities to expedite the return of the two victims and suspects back to Ghana, DCOP Donkor confirmed. As of today, both suspects and victims are with the Nigerian authorities, and efforts are being made to transport the victims to Ghana.

She added that the suspects would also be extradited to Ghana to assist further investigations.

Police have cautioned the public against falling prey to online romance scams and urged individuals to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.

The disturbing incident has sparked renewed calls for vigilance in online engagements and greater collaboration between security agencies across borders to tackle cyber-enabled crimes.

Watch the video below;
Partisan politics fueling mistrust in Chief Justice's removal petition process - Kwaku Ansa-Asare

Mohammed Ali May - 07 - 2025 , 14:10 3 minutes read

A former Director of the Ghana School of Law, Kwaku Ansa-Asare, has raised concerns about the perceived partisan politicisation of the proceedings in the three petitions asking to remove Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo from office.

According to him, the perceptions of partisan politicisation could weaken public confidence in the judiciary.

Speaking in an interview with TV3 on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, Mr Ansa-Asare stated that political interests were inevitably involved in the constitutional processes because the people who operate them are not neutral actors.

Well, as for it being politicised, every human being is a political animal, he said in an answer to a question on whether there was partisan politics involved in the process.

And therefore, if we take it from that perspective, whatever we do, people will read meaning into it. The constitutional mechanism has been spelt out. It is the human agent who operates the Constitution. And the human agents who operate the Constitution have their political interests challenged, he added.

According to Mr Ansa-Asare, once politicians set a constitutional process in motion, public perception of political influence becomes difficult to ignore.

Once we recognise and acknowledge the fact that it is politicians who set the machinery in motion, one can always conclude that it is being politicised, he said.

He called on constitutional actors, particularly the judiciary, to correct these perceptions through their conduct.

It is up to the operators of the Constitution to disabuse the minds of the populace that this impression or perception that we have does not chime with what they do, he added.

Mr Ansa-Asare warned that if such doubts are not addressed, Ghanaians would continue to view appointments and legal decisions through a partisan lens.

People will continue to say that if Akufo-Addo appoints, he is politicising; then Mahama appoints, politicising, he said.

At the end of the day, we must have confidence in the system that the operators will do what the Constitution has mandated them to do.

He also commented on public expectations that judicial appointments should serve political ends.

The way things happen in Ghana, we tend to over-satisfy our followers. So, if there is an NPP government in power, then they will look for judges who will be sympathetic to their political aspirations, he noted.

Despite these challenges, Mr Ansa-Asare expressed hope that the judiciary would remain loyal to the Constitution, regardless of who appointed them.

Once a judge has been appointed, whether from NPP or NDC or whatever, the judge becomes a justice of the Court of Ghana. And therefore, if you are a justice of the Supreme Court, your loyalty must always be to the Constitution and not to the person who appoints you.

He cited past instances of judicial independence, recalling, Sir Arku Korsah, Im told, we are always reminded that he told Nkrumah to his face that, You appointed me, but my loyalty is not to your personality, but to the Constitution of Ghana.

Mr Ansa-Asare added that if such examples of independence were followed, Ghana would be in a stronger position.

If we can emulate those examples, there will be no problem for this country, he said.
Next article: New court complex inaugurated in Winneba

Previous article: Assin Ochiso: One child dead, four hospitalised after river crossing in search of avocado

Twifo Praso: 2 men who reportedly murdered seamstress after a 'for girls' juju failed to work on her remanded

Shirley Asiedu Addo May - 07 - 2025 , 16:05 2 minutes read

Two persons, Richard Armah, a 28-year-old auto mechanic and Isaac Arhin, a 24-year-old disc jockey also known as Fresh DJ were on Wednesday, May 7, remanded in police custody in connection with the murder of 21-year-old seamstress Zenabu Tahiru at Twifo Praso in the Central region.

The two appeared before the Twifo Praso District Court on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, for the first time after their arrest on Monday, May 5, 2025.

The court presided over by Maxwell Kpodo remanded them into police custody to re-appear on May 21, 2025.

The case attracted a large crowd, seeking to catch a glimpse of the suspects.

The courtroom and its surroundings were filled with community members seeking answers and justice for Zenabu's death.

On April 3, 2025, the lifeless body of Zenabu was discovered with a cloth tied around her neck and bloodstains on her hands in her room at Kokoase, a suburb of Twifo Praso in the Central region.

Investigators also discovered a super glue container, a used condom wrapper, and an apple at the scene.

The Central North Regional Police Commander, DCOP Abraham Acquaye said preliminary investigations indicated that Armah had expressed interest in Zenabu, but she declined the proposal.

Subsequently, DCOP Acquaye said Arhin, a friend of Armah introduced him, Armah to a spiritualist for a ritual intended to win Zenabu's affection, commonly known as "for girls."

DCOP Acquaye said when the ritual failed, Arhin and the spiritualist allegedly visited Zenabu's residence on the day of the murder, sexually assaulted her, and murdered her upon suspecting that she had recognised them.

He said the two, Arhin and the said spiritualist, then took Zenabu's mobile phone and handed it over to Armah for safekeeping.

DCOP Acquaye said the police tracked Zenabu's phone, leading to Armah's arrest.

During interrogation, DCOP Acquaye said Armah implicated Arhin, leading to his arrest.

DCOP Acquaye assured residents that investigations were far advanced and urged the public to remain calm.

He also appealed for information from the public to aid the ongoing investigation.
Marietta Brew takes over as new University of Ghana Governing Council Chair

Graphic.com.gh May - 07 - 2025 , 12:28 2 minutes read

The University of Ghana has formally welcomed Ms. Marietta Agyeiwaa Brew as the new Chairperson of the Governing Council.

The Chancellor, Mrs. Mary Chinery-Hesse, extended her warm congratulations and expressed confidence in Ms. Brews leadership to advance the Universitys mission and global ambitions during the event.

The brief introductory ceremony on April 30, 2025, took place at the Chancellors residence, following the official inauguration of the Council by the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu.

The Vice-Chancellor of University of Ghana, Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, presented Ms. Brew to the Chancellor, noting that she joins the reconstituted Council alongside four new government appointees.

This Council benefits from a healthy blend of new voices and diverse professional and academic expertise, said Prof. Amfo. Its a timely development as we navigate a period of transformation at the University.

She expressed gratitude to the Chancellor for her unwavering support and guidance. Your consistent presence and wise counsel have been invaluable to our growth, Prof. Amfo remarked.

Highlighting the critical role of the Governing Council, she noted ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing academic and co-curricular programmes to better prepare students for industry demands.

Ms. Brew thanked the University for its trust and pledged to foster collaboration among stakeholders to achieve the institutions strategic goals.

The Honourable Ministers charge to us is clearwe must work diligently to support the University in producing graduates capable of transforming society, she said.

Ms. Brew emphasized the importance of unity and teamwork, assuring that the government and its appointees are committed to supporting, not interfering with, the Universitys operations.

We are here to contribute meaningfully, not to disrupt. Teamwork will be our guiding principle, she added.
Previous article: Twifo Praso: 2 men who reportedly murdered seamstress after a 'for girls' juju failed to work on her remanded

New court complex inaugurated in Winneba

Daniel Kenu May - 07 - 2025 , 16:05 2 minutes read

A new court complex, which has made it possible for the establishment of a Circuit Court in Winneba, in addition to making it possible for a second courtroom for the High Court in Winneba, has been inaugurated.

This is part of efforts to enhance justice delivery in the Effutu Traditional Area of the Central Region and also to help reduce the burden on litigants in traveling to Swedru or Accra for their cases to be heard.

The new court complex inaugurated on Wednesday, May 7, is situated on a two-acre land, forming part of a broader infrastructure initiative spearheaded by the Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Afenyo-Markin.

The enclave also accommodates a new Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) office, a Fire Service station, an Immigration office, a National Health Insurance Authority office, the Divisional Police headquarters, and a recreational centre.

The court complex has 11 offices with en-suite washrooms, two stores, and a police post with a holding room for suspects and an armoury.

This court facility is historic because law and order are the bedrock of a functioning democracy, he stated at the inaugural ceremony on Wednesday (May 7, 2025).

According to him, the establishment of the facility is his contribution toward strengthening the judiciary and fostering hope in the justice system.

Justice is the foundation of any peaceful and equitable society. This is a one-stop centre for justice delivery and ensures speedy access to justice, he said. The law is for allrich or poorand this aligns with our broader agenda for developing Effutu.

Mr Afenyo-Markin also encouraged the private sector to contribute to the execution of development projects across the constituency.

A Justice on the Court of Appeal bench, Justice Marian A. G. Jaware, called for a strategic framework to ensure easy access to the courts.

Im saying this because, for many, justice is elusive. But we must ensure that everyone benefits from a fair and speedy justice system, she said.

Justice is a social contract between the state and the citizenry, and we must safeguard it.

The Acting Municipal Chief Executive for Effutu, Alhaji Abudulai Alhassan, expressed optimism that the new facility would create employment opportunities and enhance community development.

He further called for a strong maintenance culture to preserve the facility for generations to come.
Education Minister to introduce bill to reverse names of universities Akufo-Addo renamed

Severious Kale-Dery Politics May - 07 - 2025 , 09:57 4 minutes read

The government is considering reverting to the original names of universities that were changed under the previous government.

Currently, engagements are ongoing with traditional authorities, academia, alumni, students, civil society organisations and other relevant stakeholders to that effect.

New bill

The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, who announced this at the inauguration of a 19-member Governing Council of the Dr Abdulai Salifu Technical University in Accra, chaired by Mandori Wura Alhaji Seidu Iddi, said he would introduce a new bill before Parliament that would seek to rename some public universities.

There is a policy shift, there will be changes in the names of the universities that were done. It is not to fail to recognise the contribution of any individuals or undermine the legacy of any states man or diminish their contributions to our national effort, he said.

Mr Iddrisu, however, said that those who truly deserved national honours would still keep their honours.

For instance, he said that Dr Abdulai Salifu Technical University would revert to Tamale Technical University. While others like the C.K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Science (CKT-UTAS), the Simon Diedoung Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SSD-UBIDS) and the Ephraim Amu Technical University would all be renamed.

Harmony

The minister urged the council to find solution to the numerous conflicts on the Tamale Technical University campus.

He said individuals and stakeholder differences had all manifested; the university is noted as an institution with the most strikes.

The minister recalled that the university, which was formerly known as T-Poly, was among the most attractive and sought after polytechnic in the country, and therefore, urged the council to reposition the institution to take its pride of place as an institution of excellence, with special focus on engineering, technology and vocational education.

24-Hour Economy

He said the Presidents 24-hour economy would only succeed if institutions of learning such as Tamale Technical University produced the entrepreneurial class that would not be dependent on the public sector but could generate businesses of their own.

The minister said if the nation was to succeed in addressing its growing unemployment crisis, dealing with the matter of employability and suitability of persons for various offices, institutions of learning like the technical universities had a crucial role to play.

Mr Iddrisu further said that vocational education was dear to the Ministry of Education, adding I am working assiduously to get the government of President Mahama to establish a technical vocational education fund.

He acknowledged that the 24-hour economy should be private sector-led, with the government providing an enabling environment and the incentives that were needed for the sector to triumph.

We will give you some priority attention in respect of your infrastructure.

This year, the GETFund is also making available some seed money for the new universities that were established, Mr Iddrisu said.

Members

Other members include the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Bashiru Imoro Ibn Saeed; three nominees by the President  Yahaya Al-Hassan Seini, Dr Fatimah Von Abubakari and Hajia Rahamat Abdul-Moomin.

Others are a representative of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission, Saaka Sayuti; a representative of the Commission for Technical and Vocation Education and Training, Dr Peter Boahin, and a representative of the Association of Ghana Industries, Salma Abdulai; a representative of the Conference of Heads of Assisted Senior High Schools, Tsri Felix Kwame; two representatives of the Convocation, one of whom is a non-teaching staff, Dr Abdul-Rahaman Haadi and Zakaria Mutawakilu Mohammed respectively; a representative of the teaching staff association, Dr Dr Abdul Malik; a representative of the senior staff association, Salifu Sulley Zakaria, and a representative of the junior staff association, Siedu Safianu.

The rest are a representative of the undergraduate students of the technical university, Asigri Solomon; a representative of the graduate students of technical university, Alhaji Abdul-Ganiwu Inusah; a representative of the alumni of the technical university, Dr Jamal Deen Kukurah; a representative of the Ghana Employers Association, Cosmos Alhassan, and a representative of the Association of Principals of Technical Institutes, Mariama Mahama.

Appreciation

The Mandori Wura, Alhaji Iddi, thanked the President for the trust reposed in them and gave an assurance that they would work to justify the trust reposed in them.

He appealed to the government to provide some incentives to industries that accepted students for internship to encourage more companies to come on board.
Next article: Michael Kpakpo Allotey confirmed as new Accra Mayor with unanimous vote

Suspension of Chief Justice: Minority parties support President Mahama

Dickson Worlanyo Dotse Politics May - 07 - 2025 , 09:57 3 minutes read

A coalition of five minority political parties, Third Force Alliance-Ghana, has backed President John Dramani Mahamas decision to suspend the Chief Justice, Gertrude Araba Essaba Torkornoo, describing the move as a constitutional necessity rather than a political manoeuvre.

The group stated that, based on their observations, they found the Presidents actions consistent with constitutional requirements and commended him for adhering to due process in handling the petition for the Chief Justices removal under Article 146 of the Constitution.

The Alliance  comprising the Convention Peoples Party (CPP), Peoples National Convention (PNC), Ghana Freedom Party (GFP), the Great Consolidated Popular Party (GCPP), and the All Peoples Congress (APC), made this known at a press conference held yesterday in Accra.

The General Secretary of the PNC, Awudu Ishaq, who read the statement on behalf of the group, explained that the Supreme Court itself had interpreted Article 146 to require a preliminary determination of a prima facie case in consultation with the Council of State before the President may set up a committee under Article 146(6), which the group believed the President had not violated.

There is no indication that the President has acted outside the bounds of the Constitution.

That procedure, to our knowledge, has been duly followed, he said.

They also expressed confidence in the Council of States recommendation and described the decision to suspend the Chief Justice pending investigations as responsible and well-grounded.

NPPs involvement

He criticised the decision by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to turn itself into a vanguard to support the suspended Chief Justice and, by extension, to oppose the decision by the President to exercise a constitutionally guaranteed power.

Commenting on the demonstration against the Chief Justices suspension, Mr Ishaq described the NPPs motives as politically driven and dismissed the protests as insincere.

He further stated that attempts to frame the Presidents action as politically motivated or anti-female were misleading.

His bold action in responding to the petitions against the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Gertrude Torkornoo, is a defining moment in the annals of Ghana's democracy.

It sends a strong message: No one is above the Constitution, and no institution is too sacred to be scrutinised, Mr Ishaq added.

Reforms

The Alliance also used the opportunity to propose several reforms to address gaps and strengthen the judicial accountability process.

These included the creation of an Independent Assessment Committee for prima facie reviews, setting statutory timelines for Article 146 proceedings, and the publication of committee reports post-determination.

They further called for the establishment of a Judicial Integrity Commission and urged the newly established Constitutional Review Commission to consider revising Article 146 to clarify grounds for removal to avoid the vague nature of certain terminologies, enhance transparency and reduce opportunities for executive or partisan interference.
Michael Kpakpo Allotey confirmed as new Accra Mayor with unanimous vote

GraphicOnline Politics May - 07 - 2025 , 07:02 2 minutes read

Michael Kpakpo Allotey has been unanimously confirmed as the new Chief Executive of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) following a decisive endorsement by Assembly Members during a Special General Assembly Meeting held on Tuesday at the Accra City Hall.

Mr Allotey secured all 30 valid votes cast in an election conducted by the Electoral Commission, representing a 100 per cent endorsementwell above the two-thirds threshold required under Section 20 of the Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936).

The confirmation, hailed as a strong show of unity and support, took place in a charged atmosphere of jubilation and drumming, attended by Assembly Members, government appointees, party executives, traditional leaders, and residents of the capital.

The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, who supervised the election, urged the Assembly Members to rise above partisan considerations. This is the centre of Greater Accra, she stated, calling on members to uphold their constitutional mandate and support the Presidents nominee for the good of the metropolis.

In his acceptance speech, Mr Allotey thanked God and expressed deep appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama for the appointment. I thank the President for entrusting me, a young man from North Kaneshie, with this responsibility. It is an honour I do not take lightly, he said.

He praised his predecessors and pledged to build on their achievements. I now hold the baton as Mayor of Accra. My predecessor has done her part, but today, its my turn. If I have any misunderstandings, I can seek advice from the many who have come before me, so there is no window for failure, he said.

Drawing inspiration from the Presidents development vision, he declared: We are going to reset Accrastarting now, adding, what God cannot do does not exist.

A Council of State representative and Chairman of the Economic and Social Development Committee, Nene Drolor Bosso Adamtey I, challenged the new Mayor to lead with strategic foresight, empathy and discipline. He identified sanitation, urban congestion, housing, youth unemployment and social equity as urgent areas requiring innovation and integrity.

Mr Allotey brings over a decade of experience from the private sector, having worked in real estate, petroleum, and logistics. He previously served as CEO of Our God Is Good Real Estate, contributing significantly to job creation and infrastructure development. His past roles also include General Manager at KYG Consultancy and EXOLUBE Company Ltd, and Transport Manager at DIMD Ghana, where he introduced reforms that cut operational costs and boosted efficiency.

Politically, Mr Allotey has held several leadership positions within the National Democratic Congress (NDC), most recently as Director of Operations for the Okaikwei South Constituency.
Feature: Chinese doctors restore eyesight to Senegalese cataract patients

Xinhua) 10:29, May 07, 2025

Zheng Hong, chief physician from the ophthalmology department of Sanming No. 1 Hospital, China's Fujian Province, checks the eyes of a patient at the Regional Hospital Center of Fatick in Fatick, Senegal, May 2, 2025. (Xinhua/Si Yuan)

DAKAR, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Thiekouta Diouf, an 84-year-old Senegalese cataract patient, was overjoyed to regain sight after receiving a custom-made foldable intraocular lens implanted by Chinese doctors.

The free surgery was performed last Friday inside a mobile surgical unit stationed at the Regional Hospital Center of Fatick in western Senegal by Zhang Zhaode, a veteran ophthalmologist from east China's Fujian Province.

As medical staff helped Diouf off the operating table, a smile lit up his deeply wrinkled face. "The operation was comfortable. I felt no pain," he said. "Thanks to the Chinese doctors, I have hope of seeing again."

His operation marked the 3,603rd procedure completed under a cataract blindness prevention project jointly launched by the GX Foundation, a Chinese non-profit and non-governmental organization registered in China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, as well as the Fujian Provincial Health Commission.

According to a World Report on Vision published in 2019 by the World Health Organization, more than 2.2 billion people globally suffer from visual impairment or blindness. For at least one billion of them, these conditions were preventable or remain treatable. A lack of eye care resources, especially in low- and middle-income countries, remains one of the leading causes.

In Senegal, where the healthcare system remains underdeveloped and high ultraviolet exposure in the tropical savannah contributes to cataract development, the situation is particularly pressing. Many patients miss the optimal window for treatment due to limited medical services.

Senegal's Minister of Health and Social Action Ibrahima Sy described blindness and visual disorders as major public health issues, noting that nearly 165,000 people in the country are blind and more than 550,000 suffer from visual impairments caused by cataracts, trachoma, glaucoma, and other conditions.

"The situation is more serious than we had imagined," said Zheng Hong, chief physician from the ophthalmology department of Sanming No. 1 Hospital, Fujian. A month earlier, she and four colleagues had traveled over 10,000 km to reach this West African country.

"We initially planned to perform about 10 operations a day," Zheng said. "But faced with so many longing eyes, we all agreed to extend our working hours and now perform over 20 surgeries daily."

In the early hours of last Friday, the hospital corridors were jam-packed with patients from across the country. Local volunteers efficiently handled registrations and screenings.

"A friend from my village told me the Chinese doctors here are very skilled and capable of fixing our vision problems," said Saliou Diouf, 52, who had driven from a nearby rural area. He had lived with blurry vision for years, unable to access surgical treatment.

"We conduct thorough screenings for every patient," explained Zhang Caihua, chief physician from the ophthalmology department of Sanming No. 2 Hospital, Fujian. "Once cataracts are diagnosed, we customize intraocular lenses to suit each individual's eye condition."

In the screening room, Zhang, assisted by local doctors, used a keratometer and A/B-scan ophthalmologic ultrasound to collect patient data. "The patients are very cooperative during screening and surgery," she said while reviewing the day's registry. "When the bandages come off, some patients dance, others cry. That joy transcends all language barriers."

As the setting sun cast golden light over the Fatick hospital, a new group of patients received appointments for the next day's procedures. As the Chinese doctors boarded their minibus to return to their lodging, words of gratitude in Wolof, French, and Chinese echoed across the West African savannah.

At a closing ceremony held Monday in Dakar, Senegal's capital, to mark the end of the Fatick leg of the project and sign a renewed cooperation agreement, Leung Chun-ying, president of the GX Foundation, shared the project's progress.

Since its launch in October 2023, the initiative has dispatched seven specialized ophthalmology teams who have screened the eyes of more than 5,800 patients aged between 17 and 103, and conducted over 3,600 free cataract surgeries.

"For more than a year, we have shared Chinese medical expertise with the people of Senegal. In return, they have given us touching stories. Whether it's patients who have been blind for 30 years or centenarians, the joy of regaining sight deeply symbolizes Sino-Senegalese friendship," said Leung.

He added that after completing the mission in Fatick, the Foundation would continue its free operations in N'dioum in the Saint-Louis Region, northwestern Senegal.

At the ceremony, Li Yan, minister counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Senegal, affirmed China's commitment to deepening humanitarian medical assistance to Senegal, delivering real and tangible benefits to the Senegalese people.

Zhang Caihua (R), chief physician from the ophthalmology department of Sanming No. 2 Hospital, China's Fujian Province, receives a patient at the Regional Hospital Center of Fatick in Fatick, Senegal, May 2, 2025. (Xinhua/Si Yuan)

Patients queue up to establish medical records at the Regional Hospital Center of Fatick in Fatick, Senegal, May 2, 2025. (Xinhua/Si Yuan)

Zhang Zhaode (L), a veteran ophthalmologist from China's Fujian Province, performs a vision restoration surgery for a cataract patient at the Regional Hospital Center of Fatick in Fatick, Senegal, May 2, 2025. (Xinhua/Si Yuan)

This photo taken on May 2, 2025 shows a mobile surgical vehicle at the Regional Hospital Center of Fatick in Fatick, Senegal. (Xinhua/Si Yuan)

A patient undergoes a vision examination at the Regional Hospital Center of Fatick in Fatick, Senegal, May 2, 2025. (Xinhua/Si Yuan)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
Constitutional review should prevent MPs from doubling as ministers - Fifi Kwetey

Mohammed Ali Politics May - 07 - 2025 , 12:31 2 minutes read

The General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, has called for constitutional reforms to prevent Members of Parliament (MPs) from simultaneously serving as ministers of state.

He argued that the current arrangement weakens parliamentary oversight and short-changes voters.

Speaking on Channel One TVs Face to Face programme on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, Mr Kwetey said the practice turns Parliament into an appendage of the executive, as many MPs prioritise ministerial ambitions over their legislative responsibilities.

I insist that the constitutional review, one of the first things it must tackle, is to decouple this business where, if you are in Parliament, you can be elected to become a member of government, Mr Kwetey stated.

He accused some MPs of using their parliamentary roles as stepping stones to cabinet positions, rather than genuinely seeking to represent their constituents.

If you want to run to become an MP, we must know that you are seeking to be an MP  not coming to use that position to deceive the country while youre actually looking for a ministerial appointment, he asserted.

Mr Kwetey said the overlap between Parliament and the executive hampers the legislatures ability to effectively hold the government to account.

Parliament should not be an appendage of the executive, where literally everything is about what the executive wants, he said. The best way to serve the people of Ghana is to have Parliament doing its job and being able to say, No, this is not acceptable.

He recalled that the provision allowing MPs to serve as ministers was introduced under President Hilla Limann to prevent the legislature from obstructing the executive. However, he described it as a historical exception that no longer suits Ghanas democratic evolution.

We have so many countries practising democracy, and that is not the case, he noted. Parliament was simply a means by which you wanted to serve your people. Becoming a minister was a bonus, not the aim.

He further argued that removing the incentive for MPs to chase ministerial roles would help restore Parliaments independence and strengthen accountability in governance.
Sony announced the Xperia 1 VI on May 15 last year, and so you may be wondering when to expect its successor, the Xperia 1 VII, to become official. According to a new rumor out of Japan, the event will be taking place on exactly the same date: May 15.

Not just that, but it will also become available in Japan on the same day. That's the good news. The bad news is that the global release is said to only be happening in July, unfortunately. Of course, as this is nothing but a rumor at this point, we can't be sure of its accuracy, however we wouldn't be surprised if it did pan out, as Sony has in the past had very significant lead times from announcement to global availability of its devices, so it wouldn't be a first.

Sony Xperia 1 VII leaked image

The Xperia 1 VII looks practically identical to its predecessor, and has recently been spotted in the Geekbench database with the Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC at the helm, unsurprisingly. This was paired with 12GB of RAM, the exact same amount as the Xperia 1 VI. The phone should launch with Android 15, even though Google plans to release Android 16 by the end of June.

The 1 VII measures 161.9 x 74.5 x 8.5mm, making it a tiny bit shorter, wider, and thicker than its predecessor. That said, the screen size is rumored to remain unchanged: 6.5".

Sony Xperia 1 VI

Source (in Japanese) | Image source
These are the best offers from our affiliate partners. We may get a commission from qualifying sales.
Samsung to acquire the owner of Bowers & Wilkins, Denon, Boston Acoustics and others

Samsung acquired Harman back in 2017, which gave it control over popular audio gear brands such as Harman Kardon, AKG, Bang & Olufsen, JBL and many others. These brands make headphones, home audio equipment and car audio, which Samsung has a vested interest in. Now Samsung is expanding its domain as its Harman subsidiary is set to acquire Masimos Sound United.

In recent years, Sound United had acquired the likes of Denon, Bowers & Wilkins, Boston Acoustics and others. Boston Acoustics is behind the OEM sound equipment for a lot of popular car models.

Older Galaxy Buds had Sound by AKG labels on them, but that was removed for the Galaxy Buds3 generation. Will one of the new brands take over? Well have to wait to find out.

This deal is subject to regulatory approval as always, but it is expected to close by the end of the year. Samsung has signed a $350 million contract for the acquisition.

This is expected to grow Harmans lifestyle business division and cement it in the top spot globally for consumer audio. The global consumer audio market is expected to grow from $60.8 billion this year to $70 billion in 2029, writes Samsung in its press release.

P.S. if Masimo sounds familiar but you cant place it, its the company that is locked in a patent battle with Apple over health tracking tech on the Apple Watch.

Source 1 (in Korean) | Source 2
Yesterday a rumor out of Japan told us to expect Sony to announce the Xperia 1 VII on May 15, and today the company itself has finally come out and shared the actual official unveiling date.

It's two days earlier than rumored: May 13. As you can see, the event will take place at 11 AM Japan time, which is 4 AM CEST, 3 AM in London, and 7:30 AM in India. The launch will be livestreamed on Sony's YouTube channel, and we'll embed the stream on the day of the event for your viewing pleasure.

New Xperia is coming on 13 May!



Get ready for the Xperia New Product Announcement, exclusively on @SonyXperia YouTube: https://t.co/FrBWgOMjcq



13 May (TUE), 2025 11:00 Japan time / 04:00 CEST#SonyXperia #ProductAnnouncement #NextXperia  Sony | Xperia (@sonyxperia) May 7, 2025

According to past leaks and rumors, the Xperia 1 VII looks nigh-on identical to its predecessor, but is slightly shorter, wider, and thicker, while expected to keep the same 6.5-inch screen size.

It will reportedly be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, paired with 12GB of RAM. It will run Android 15 from day one, but that 'day one' could be a long way away if you're not in Japan - yesterday's rumor told us the phone would become available in Japan on launch day but would only make it to international markets in July. Hopefully that was inaccurate just like the actual unveiling date was, but we'll have to wait and see.
"TikTok is here" says exec after Trump shows willingness to push back the ban once again

The US Congress passed a law that would have forced TikTok to close its operations in the US  unless it was sold to a US company. But then President Trump gave it a 75-day extension and then another 75 days.

Yesterday, TikTok gathered major advertisers in Manhattan for a presentation on its future. The VP of Global Business Solutions Khartoon Weiss said TikTok is here  we are here.

This comes after Trump suggested that he would grant TikTok another extension. The previous extension will run out in June.

Weiss added that TikTok is used as an alternative to Googles search engine more and more. The social network currently has 170 million users in the US alone.

The event was hosted by Hasan Minhaj and featured representatives from major companies like LOreal and Unilever. They saw a presentation of new tools that will help marketers run their campaigns.

Various US giants have expressed interest in buying TikTok, from Amazon to Microsoft. Even MrBeast is in the running. TikTok made no mention of splitting from its Chinese owner ByteDance and selling to a US company during this event.

Source (paywall)
(This story has been updated to include a statement from the plaintiffs attorney.)

Former Archbishop Anthony Apuron on Wednesday broke his years of silence in a video message, maintaining hes innocent of the clergy sex abuse allegations against him.

He issued a video message after plaintiffs initiated proceedings that sought dismissal of cases, according to his attorney. Apuron is required to agree to the dismissal, his counsel said.

He did, and the parties filed a motion that dismisses with prejudice eight clergy sex abuse cases and one defamation case against him.

Delia Lujan Wolff, attorney for the plaintiffs, on Wednesday night said dismissal of the plaintiffs claims against Apuron is not evidence that Apuron did not sexually abuse or defame them.

To be clear, Apuron has not been vindicated by the dismissals and they do not affirm his innocence. While our clients have dismissed their claims against Apuron, after delays in taking his deposition due to Apurons alleged health problems and his claim that he has very limited financial resources, they continue to stand by their allegations that Apuron did horrible things to them, Wolff stated. In fact, our clients have already received partial relief on their claims.

A federal judge has yet to act on the voluntary dismissal.

Apuron, in his video message, shared by his attorney, Jacqueline Terlaje, said he can now speak freely about the canonical process.

The canonical process did not result in my laicization. No priest or bishop who has been found guilty of these crimes has remained a priest or bishop as I have. This indicates my innocence, he said.

Forever disgraced

Apuron was stripped of his title, permanently removed from his post and was exiled, after a Vatican tribunal found him guilty related to sexual abuse of minors. He left Guam in 2016.

He lost his appeal and the Vatican tribunal in 2019 upheld the earlier guilty verdict.

The plaintiffs attorney, Wolff, said as a result of the Vatican finding Apuron guilty of delicts against the Sixth Amendment with minors and Apuron losing his appeal, Apuron was removed from the office of the Archbishop of Agana and perpetually prohibited from dwelling, even temporarily, in Guam.

That is huge for our clients. He has been forever disgraced and he cannot change that with a press release, Wolff stated.

Injustice in silence

Apuron, who was the head of the Catholic Church on Guam for some 30 years, said he was unjustly condemned by the media and by public opinion because of false accusations made against him, and that he accepted the injustice in silence.

Today I pray to God to have mercy on those who smeared my reputation and destroyed my life for economic and political reasons...and also for those who judged me listening to them. United to the Lord I can say: Father, forgive them, they do not know what they are doing.

Apuron said many people have expressed their solidarity and support to him and that many people in the Archdiocese of Agana know the truth.

He said a climate of fear remains in the church of Guam, created, he said, by people who want to destroy Guam and have no shame using the church to gain money and power.

I pray that one day my exile may be lifted and that I may return to my beloved motherland. I keep living this time in prayer and offer my sufferings also for my enemies and for those who condemned me, he said. I pray also for the current Archbishop of Guam, may the Lord give him strength, discernment and courage to seek the truth and to do what is right.

Cant bring same claims

Apurons counsel issued a press release following the filing of the stipulation.

The claims against Archbishop Apuron have now been voluntarily dismissed with prejudice, meaning that these plaintiffs are prohibited from bringing the same claims against him ever again, Terlaje stated.

She said these voluntary dismissals bring to a close nearly a decade of protracted litigation.

U.S. District Court Chief Judge Frances Tydingco-Gatewood, who has presided over the Guam clergy sex abuse cases and the Archdiocese of Agana bankruptcy case, has yet to act on the voluntary dismissal.

Also named in the lawsuits were the Archdiocese of Agana, which settled the cases to exit bankruptcy; the Holy See; and several Capuchin Franciscan entities.

The cases included eight allegations of sexual abuse dating back to the 1970s, mostly from former Hagat alter boys and one defamation case.

Made a settlement offer

Plaintiffs counsel earlier stated in a court filing that during a Zoom meeting, Atty. Terlaje, on behalf of Apuron, made a settlement offer to the plaintiffs.

Thereafter, the parties have been engaged in settlement discussions to resolve the dispute between them. The parties settlement discussions are in line with what I recall and understood to be the Courts previous encouragement to the parties to consider resolution and the financial burden of continued litigation, the April 30 court filing stated.

Another April 30 filing stated that Apurons counsel made a settlement offer to Plaintiff.

Terlajes statement, meanwhile, echoed Apurons video message that he has never offered or entered into any settlement agreement with the plaintiffs, nor has he offered any money or other consideration to any plaintiff to resolve these cases.

Archbishop Apuron has only asserted his willingness to execute a stipulation of dismissal to resolve the cases, as is required under the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure...to dismiss any case at this stage of litigation, according to Terlajes statement.

In 2016, Apurons accusers said all they wanted was an apology from Apuron.

Archbishop Apuron has always maintained his innocence in the face of these claims, and has continued to defend his good name within the process permitted under our laws, Terlaje said in a Wednesday statement.

Apuron has not been deposed in any of the cases.

Unfortunately, due to extenuating circumstances beyond his control, the trial and discovery process was delayed partly by unwillingness of plaintiffs to comply with basic requests for information, which is the basis for motions to compel Archbishop Apurons unwavering dedication to due process and justice, in asserting his innocence, is affirmed by the plaintiffs decision to dismiss their claims today, Terlaje said in a statement.

Apurons health concerns were among reasons cited earlier as to why the planned deposition did not go forward.

Archbishop Anthony Apuron continues to pray, in solitude, for the Church of Guam, his accusers, and all those victims of abuse in Guam and throughout the Church, Terlaje stated.

The archdiocese settled nearly 300 clergy sex abuse claims as part of the bankruptcy process.
A bittersweet ending to a speedy trial, the Chief Brodie Memorial Elementary School mock trial team gathered in court on April 29 for what would be their final Fairytale Mock Trial, People v. Woody.

This years mock trial was a special one for Chief Brodies Busy Bees who have been a participating school in the Judiciary of Guams mock trials for the past 15 years because Chief Brodie will be closing after this school year as part of the Guam Department of Educations consolidation and closure plan over declining student population and resources.

The 65-year-old Chief Brodie is one of the oldest schools on Guam. It was established in January 1960.

In the Chief Brodie teams last imaginative trial, inspired by the first Toy Story movie, students who took on the roles of prosecutors and defense attorneys were tasked with determining whether Toy Storys Woody was guilty or not guilty on one charge of kidnapping.

The prosecution side was firm that Woody purposefully pushed his friend Buzz Lightyear out the window in an act of jealousy and betrayal, calling on witnesses Mr. Potato Head, Buzz Lightyear and Sergeant Soldier to speak against the defendant.

However, the defense side argued that it had been an accident, calling on witness Bo Peep to testify.

The Chief Brodie mock trial ended with the jurors unanimously declaring that Woody was not guilty of the crime, with the defense winning the case.

Never cease to amaze me

Chief Brodie Principal Darlene Castro, during the event, acknowledged that this would be the last year that the school would be a participant, congratulating the students for their hard work and making their last mock trial a memorable one.

I want to tell all of you students and kids that you guys never cease to amaze me, she said. You pick up so much, so fast and you make me proud and everyone else here proud.

Castro, alongside teachers, faculty and staff Kimberly Barrett-Pendon, Belen Daling, Gabrielle Diaz, Mia Kirsten Dulana, Asia Meno and Zoe Pendon assisted the team, helping them get into their roles, memorizing their lines and encouraging their interests in law.

According to Barrett-Pendon, special education teacher, the students excitement to join this years mock trial outshined a busy and bittersweet conclusion to the school year.

Its bittersweet but they were excited to come here for the last time and perform as the Chief Brodie Elementary School Mock Trial Team, she said. Its something memorable for all of them and the parents, they enjoy having a lot of them.

She shared that a mock trial has been important for the students as it builds their confidence and gives them the opportunity to learn more about law.

Theres a lot of our own that you can see that theyre very shy but when we do this, we try to let them come out of their shell and its something that they really remember years from now, she said, stating that she meets previous students who still vividly recall the experience.

Barrett-Pendon said the Chief Brodie mock trial team shares their appreciation for the Judiciary of Guam judges and staff for their assistance this year and previous years.
The Guam Education Board intensified scrutiny of the Guam Department of Education during its meeting Tuesday, pressing Superintendent Erik Swanson over persistent delays in releasing students academic performance dashboard and unresolved issues concerning instructional time.

Swanson attributed the delay to ongoing negotiations with a vendor.

Despite the availability of key academic dataattendance, discipline, graduation rates, and standardized assessmentsthe dashboard project, initially introduced by Swanson in July 2023, remains incomplete, officials said.

If we have that data already at hand to complete the process, we need to know what other kinds of data elements the board would like to see in the dashboard, and well be sure to have it, he said.

Board member Maria Gutierrez questioned the lack of progress.

When you came in July 2023, a month later, you start reading out the dashboard, the dashboard, the dashboard. Now in your report today, youre requesting for us to provide specific input to the types of data desired for inclusion, she said. It took you almost one year and a half to bring this up as a request for data, for what type of data is designed for inclusion?

Gutierrez said the necessary data is available.

You have attendance, you have discipline, you have graduation rates, you have standardized assessment data already at hand. If you already have that on handthen where is the dashboard? she asked. Where is the dashboard, Superintendent? Its no excuse!

She said blame for administrative inefficiencies is being shifted.

I hear theyre blaming recruitment. Theyre blaming the legal office, because you dont use your legal the way its supposed to be and this is what bothers me, Gutierrez said. If you cannot have the person doing the dashboard do the job, I dont know, thats up to you, but every season since July 2023 right after that first thing? Dashboard, nothing. Graduation rate, nothing. You have all of that, then, why isnt it ready?

Gutierrez also questioned the effectiveness of the vendor transition.

Now you have moved to the second vendor. When is the second vendor? What happened now? Wheres the second vendor? she inquired. How much are you paying someone to do the dashboard? And nothing happened. Now we went towe have most of the second vendor. Where are we on the second vendor?

Board Chairman Angel Sablan called for a definitive resolution, setting a firm deadline of the May 20 board meeting.

Former interim superintendent Judith Won Pat addressed the board, expressing concern over the boards handling of instructional time, particularly in schools operating on double sessions.

Won Pat, who also was a former school principal, pointed to violations of local education laws mandating 300 minutes of instruction per day and 180 instructional days per year.

Instructional hours are 300 minutes. Instructional days are 180 days. And then, of course, we hear Dr. [Mary] Okada ask How are you going to make up for instructional time? And then we hear them be voluntary, she said.

She warned that voluntary solutions would disproportionately benefit students already positioned to succeed.

Unfortunately, it will not be our marginal students. It will be those students eventually who are going to go to college, she said candidly.

Won Pat questioned the lack of urgency in addressing student learning loss.

These children that will be graduating are going to be the leaders tomorrow. Theyre the ones going to be deciding basically whats going to happen to all of us and our island, she said.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Marivic David asked the jury Wednesday to follow the money trail and convict three defendants accused of taking millions of dollars in illegal bingo proceeds between 2015 and 2021.

David represents the government in the case against Michael Marasigan, Jose Arthur Art D. Chan and Christine C. Chan. The defendants are charged in federal court with multiple felony conspiracies: operating an illegal gambling operation, money laundering and wire fraud.

After 21 actual trial days since the case began on March 18, the trios fate is in the hands of a 12-person jury, which will deliberate the case behind closed doors at the District Court of Guam.

David started the day with her rebuttal closing arguments  the governments opportunity to address any remarks made by the trios attorneys in their closing arguments done on Tuesday.

Jurors were excused at the start, however, as Chief Judge Frances Tydingco-Gatewood and the attorneys ironed out legal matters on what was and was not allowed in Davids closing rebuttal. She resumed almost two hours after her scheduled 8:30 a.m. start time.

While the defense has maintained that the Hafa Adai Bingo operation, working under the nonprofit certification of the Guam Shriners, was lawful from the start, David asked jurors to look at three periods within the 2015-21 range where she said that the bingo operation did not have a valid certificate  issued by the Department of Revenue and Taxation  to conduct bingo operations.

During those three periods, which total 90 days over three different years, she said about $1.888 million in bingo income was recorded  all illegal proceeds, she said.

She also addressed the defenses portrayal of four former bingo colleagues, originally co-defendants who signed plea agreements with the government. During trial, the defense had reminded them that they were signing away certain constitutional rights by agreeing to plead guilty.

They signed those agreements with their counsel. You have to respect them for their decision to waive their constitutional rights, said David. Just as you have to respect the defendants, who also have counsel, and their decision not to sign an agreement.

David mentioned the many checks signed by Shrine Club officers and given to all of those originally indicted. Marasigan is accused of taking the largest share of about $14 million over seven years.

The numerous checks written to the original co-defendants over the years support the charges of conspiracy, said David. Each check constituted an agreement between the person who signed the check and the person named on the check. The trio faces 61 total counts on the three charges.

David pulled some coins out of her pocket and counted out 41 cents. She slammed them down on the table in front of Marasigan and told the jury that out of every $100 spent by a bingo player over the years, just 41 cents went to the Shriner mission.

Shame on Christine Chan. Shame on Arthur Chan. And shame on Michael Marasigan, she told the jury. This was supposed to be bingo for charity. But they lost their purpose. Dont let them walk away from their crimes. Show that they are guilty of each and every charge.
Less than a year after opening its doors to students, the Business and Technology Academy Charter School, BTACS, earned its initial accreditation, Principal Dylan Sablan announced during the Guam Academy Charter Schools Council meeting late Tuesday afternoon.

Evangeline Cepeda, chairperson for the charter schools council, lauded BTACS for this progress.

Good. Congratulations. It has not been a full year so this is amazing, she said. Its a shine again on the charter school. Job well done to your team.

BTACS underwent its initial evaluation on March 25 through the Accrediting Commission for Schools, the body chosen to lead the process.

Thats the commissioning body that we decided to go with and so we had the initial visit on [March 25] , and weve just been waiting for the results since then, Sablan told the council.

The principal said the school on Saturday morning received an email from the commission basically stating that we are initially accredited so we have received the initial accreditation.

Sablan said BTACS will send the council a copy of that letter as well as the certificate, once it comes in the mail.

The principal credited the schools academic leadership and community ties for contributing to the successful outcome.

And so were very happy with what weve been able to do and I cant stress that our academic director [Richard Guerrero] was extremely important to this process, as were all members of the BTACS community, he said. Were very happy with the result, and were going to keep pushing forward.

The accreditation is valid for three years. BTACS will undergo its next review in the School Year 20272028, during which it will complete a self-study for a potential six-year term.

In addition to earning accreditation, BTACS has achieved several milestones in its inaugural year.

It became the first high school on Guam to implement a Career Navigation Program, providing students with hands-on aviation experience through partnerships with local businesses and the military.

The program also prepares students for careers in technology, engineering, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship. BTACS said it plans to expand the curriculum to include middle school students and introduce tourism and culinary arts to its career cluster offerings.

BTACS also collaborates with Magalahen Hurao-CHamoru Academy Charter School to integrate CHamoru language and culture into the classroom.
With some villages still looking for candidates for the 81st Liberation Queen competition, the deadline for applications has been extended until Friday, Yona Mayor Brian Jesse Terlaje told the Mayors Council of Guam on Wednesday.

There are currently four candidates, with a possible fifth, and rehearsals are beginning, he said.

Right now we are looking at having a little bit more, he added. So even though you have not filled out or submitted in the application, please have your candidates attend the rehearsals.

The queen competition has been revamped this year, with judging criteria to include not just funds raised, but also pageantry.

Contestants will be evaluated based on a village-themed native costume, casual wear reflecting the Liberation Day theme of Fanohge CHamoru, a question-and-answer session, and an evening wear competition.

Contestants must be at least 18, U.S. citizens with a passport and residents of Guam. They must also have been born female.

The upper age limit, previously 25, has been raised to 30. Contestants can be single, married or divorced, and they can have children, but they cannot be pregnant during the candidacy or reign.

Mayors Council President Jesse Alig, the mayor of Piti, said the mayors are still awaiting the logo design, which will be coming from Adelup.

The mayors will coordinate some type of celebration for Liberation Day, whether thats a block party-style, or some type of carnival-like activity, we will let you know, Alig said. He said the location is not known.

Alig said the mayors have asked the governor for approval for the color game and beto-beto at the celebration.
Whether Guam moves to become a full-fledged state of the U.S. or to go it alone on the stage of world politics, it will need skilled negotiators, University of Guam professor Kenneth Gofigan Kuper said to a crowd at Hyatt Regency Guam on Wednesday.

Kuper was the keynote speaker for day two of the Guam Commission on Decolonizations Fanhita Conference.

The professor teaches political science and CHamoru and Micronesian studies at UOG, and is the chairman of the Decolonization Commissions Free Association Task Force.

He said if the island plans to shape its own future, it needs to train up a cadre of skilled negotiators and diplomats who could advocate for Guam in the halls of Congress, or the United Nations.

People look at maps of the Pacific and see tiny dots scattered in an ocean of blue. They see islands aspects of land destined to be dependent on the larger land masses around them, Kuper told the crowd Wednesday. They see islands as places to project power onto, not places whose people can project power on their own.

That power projection could be felt personally for residents, he said, recalling the dreadful day in 2007, when he got news that one of his best friends died in Iraq.

But it isnt a one-way street, and the island isnt destined to be isolated and disconnected, while the global waves of great powers crash against its shores, Kuper said.

The solution? Diplomacyor para-diplomacy, Kuper said, where the island still puts a foot forward to advocate for its own interests and foreign policy on the world stage, even if its still a territory of the U.S.

Some of the islands right to do that as a non-self-governing territory was already recognized by the United Nations.

I picture a cold, bright conference room, kind of like this one, with representatives from Guam and the United States sitting around the table with stacks of papers, he said.

Among those observing were local senators, and Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero.

Because its Guam, theres empanada, theres also coffee, some small talk before things turn serious, proposals are presented. Debates unfold. Things may get heated. This is where the negotiations begin, Kuper said.

This image sticks with me, because no matter what political status Guam chooses, independence, free association or integration, negotiation will be pivotal, he said. To put it bluntly, if Guam doesnt negotiate strategically and sharply, we run the risk of walking away with the shorter end of the stick.

He added, We already live on short ends of sharp sticks in this political arrangement with the United States.

According to the professor, the local government should establish an external engagement office.

That office would coordinate all of Guams engagement regionally and internationally, he said, and carry on the institutional know-how of diplomacy from one gubernatorial administration to the next.

This office will ensure that the people of Guam have a voice, and that we speak with one voice when we are out there in the world, Kuper said, identifying priorities, briefing local leaders, and tracking communiques and building Guams presence.

Additionally, the government should fund a negotiator para-diplomacy program, he said, that could teach skills to the folks who would staff such an office.

Kuper said such a diplomatic corps could first advocate to the U.S. to allow Guam to pursue the political future it wants.

Its GovGuams policy that the islands native inhabitants be allowed to decide on a move from the current status as a territory of the U.S. to either statehood, independence, or free association, which is independence with close ties to the U.S.

That process is currently stalled out, following a 2019 federal court decision that found a plebiscite, or vote, for political status was illegally-race based despite objections from the local government.

Whatever political status is decided, those negotiators and diplomats will still be needed, Kuper said.

An independent Guam without competent diplomats is a Guam waiting to be stepped on, he said, while a freely associated Guam would have to negotiate and renegotiate the terms of its relationship with the U.S.

Meanwhile, the U.S. State of Guam would need negotiators in Congress, in rooms full of competing priorities, who know to fight for island, he added.

Ask yourselves, do we have this now, if we were handed a new status tomorrow, are our negotiation knives sharpened, or are they dull and ineffective? Kuper told the crowd.

He said the future doesnt begin with status change, but preparation.

And preparation begins with the belief that we have the right and the power to shape what comes next, he said.
A surprise visit to the governments Emergency Operations Center on Tuesday found staff shortage, a broken elevator, downed mobile command post, and inaccessible website used to post emergency information, according to oversight chair Sen. Shawn Gumataotao.

From the start their readiness wasnt there that we would have liked, Gumataotao said of the visit to the center in Agana Heights.

Gumataotao said the federally funded Guam Homeland Security and Office of Civil Defense, which run the center, may ask senators for an infusion of local cash to support operations.

Adelup, in a statement after the senators visit, said GHS/OCD acknowledges the concerns raised regarding the current condition of the facility.

We take these findings seriously and have been actively working to identify and secure the necessary funding to support the repairs, maintenance, and continued operation of the facility, the governors office said.

Gumataotao stressed that the center is key for coordinating emergency response for Guam on a moments notice.

The visit comes on the tail of a series of government corruption indictments brought against current and former staff at GHS/OCD, which runs the center, and public concern about the agencys operations and handling of federal funds.

Gumataotao said concerns about the Emergency Operations Center were great enough that Speaker Frank Blas Jr. personally requested the Tuesday mission check.

Every member of the legislative Committee on Emergency Response appeared for the check, including Blas, Vice Speaker Tony Ada, as well as Sens. Sabrina Salas Matanane and Tina Muna Barnes.

Gumataotao said it was clear the facility was understaffed from the time lawmakers first set foot into the building.

It should always have 24-hour situational awareness that was clear that that was not in place, he said.

The oversight chairman said hes got assurances that the issue, among other issues revealed Tuesday, will be addressed.

He said the elevator at the site, important for transporting materials and supplies in and out of the center during a disaster, was broken.

The mobile command post was likewise offline over mechanical issues.

Gumataotao said the command post was not available when the entire village of Talofofo was put on lockdown while police conducted a manhunt for suspected shooter Nathan Tedtaotao early last month.

Chief of Police Stephen Ignacio at the time said officers were working out of a bus stop on the side of the road.

Finally, the GHS/OCD website, which posts notices about everything from typhoons and high surf advisories to unexploded ordnance discovery, was not operational.

According to Gumataotao, the website has been down since September because of non-payment by GHS/OCD.

Theres some positives, he noted. We know that obviously they have the cadre of public information officers. That part is good and always good, never bad.

The agencies are always ready to push out information, and their emergency alert siren system is functional, with the exception of one siren in Talofofo which was taken down over vandalism.

That siren has been replaced with a backup, Gumataotao said.

Adelup, in a Wednesday statement, said the GHS/OCD and the Office of the Governor were searching for funding to address issues.

The legislature has the ability to appropriate the funding necessary, utilizing surplus revenues, the release noted.

GovGuam collected $47.3 million more in revenue from taxes and fees than projected as of March, though only about $26 million is available after accounting for other appropriations and shortfalls, the Pacific Daily News reported in April.

Once a viable funding source has been confirmed, GHS/OCD will coordinate with the General Services Agency (GSA) to procure the required services in accordance with established procurement regulations, Adelup stated.

The governors office noted the strengths found at the office, especially around readiness to distribute information to the public, and the operational status of a central point for the allocation of essential resources.

GHS/OCD remains fully committed to ensuring that all mission-critical functions are supported and that the facility remains operational and capable of meeting the demands of our emergency management and homeland security responsibilities, Adelup stated.

Gumataotao said hes yet to see a figure for how much the agencies will need.

The PDN did request that figure from Adelup spokesperson Krystal Paco-San Agustin. A response was pending as of press time Wednesday.

Asking for local funding as a backstop for GHS/OCD is unprecedented, as the agency has been federally funded since it was established, Gumataotao said.

He said activity in Washington, D.C. around abolishing the Federal Emergency Management Agency are contributing to the move.

Issues with GHS/OCDs handling of federal funds were also a concern, he added.

The audits have been very clear on how effective theyve been using federal funds for emergency management, Gumataotao said.

In any case, senators did need to prioritize funding for GHS/OCD, he said.

Gumataotao stressed that the whole island relies upon the agencies during times of emergency.
The Office of the Attorney Generals appeal over a program to feed and house homeless and drug-addicted residents will not be heard by the Supreme Court of Guam.

Justices of the local high court on Tuesday dismissed the AGs office appeal of a temporary restraining order issued over Dignity Project.

Funding for the project was frozen by Superior Court Judge John Terlaje last week after the governors office sued, alleging the AGs office broke the law when it secured a contract with Tropical Palm Hotel to feed and house clients of the program.

The AG appealed the restraining order that was issued by Terlaje to the Supreme Court of Guam, but legal counsel for Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero last Friday motioned to have the appeal dismissed.

The restraining order, which expires this Thursday, may not be immediately appealed to the Supreme Court of Guam, justices found in their Tuesday order.

Our response to this governor is, we will play the ball, Attorney General Douglas Moylan said in a Tuesday evening statement.

Parties are due back before Terlaje on Thursday to argue whether a preliminary injunction should be ordered for the project.

The AG said another appeal will be filed to the Supreme Court of Guam if Judge Terlaje does not change his position on payments for the Dignity Project Thursday, and an injunction is issued.

The governors lawsuit is consistent with her administrations inability to fix Guams worsening problems in health care and education, and refusal to work with the AGs office prosecutors in stopping the flow of meth through our Port Authority, which is the main source of drugs destroying our families and community, Moylan said Tuesday night.

He said he has no intention to stop helping to improve our quality of life.

Adelups lawsuit alleges the AGs office violated the law when it secured the contract with Tropical Palm without the governors signature, and that the AGs office threatened to prosecute an employee who questioned the project.

It also alleges the AGs office did not follow procurement law procedure when it secured the deal with the hotel on a sole-source basis.

Moylan has defended the procurement process. Legal opinions produced by his office found that the governors signature was not needed for the contract, which was secured using funds under the supervision of the Guam Opioid Recovery Advisory Council from pharmaceutical company settlements.

The Dignity Project lawsuit is one of a series of legal disputes that the AGs office and Adelup became entangled in, with both sides alleging the other had violated Guam law in various ways.

Notably, Moylan is suing Leon Guerrero and the Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority over alleged illegalities in the Mangilao hospital project.

The governor is seeking a special prosecutor to probe Moylan and his office over alleged hiring, promotion and contract violations.

This AG has no intention of stopping. Either cooperate or we will continue to do what I was hired to do, litigate on behalf of our client in the Courts to achieve justice and improve our quality of life, Moylan said Tuesday night.
The University of Guam recently announced its appointment of Hiroshan Hettiarachchi, PhD, PE, also known as Dr. H, dean of UOGs flourishing new School of Engineering, as the new director of the Water and Environmental Research Institute, WERI, of the Western Pacific.

As stated in its announcement, this consolidation reflects the administrations broader efforts to enhance interdisciplinary research, align research and academic units, and strategically consolidate leadership roles for greater efficiency and impact.

It is also consistent with WERIs long-standing support of engineering at UOG.

More than 40 years ago, WERI engineers Leroy Heitz, PhD, PE, and Shahram Khosrowpanah, PhD, PE, also known as Dr. K, pioneered UOGs long-lasting Two-Year Pre-Engineering Program.

In 2014, UOG President Robert Underwood appointed Dr. K, at that time WERI director, to chair the committee that proposed the School of Engineering.

After it was approved by the board in October 2016, Dr. K was appointed interim dean. When he retired in September 2021, the board honored him as founding dean of SENG.

Until it acquired sufficient faculty, WERI faculty formed its search committees and taught some of SENGs courses.

By leveraging the leadership of SENGs first permanent dean, now also WERI director, this consolidation is a major advancement of President Anita Enriquezs visions of innovation, resilience, and progress, and impact on our island and regionas well as the fulfillment of her and her predecessors original visions for a UOG School of Engineering and new facilities for SENG and WERI.

This initiative coincides with another historical juncture for WERI: Implementation of Guams One-Guam Water Resources Information Program, OGWRIP. While I served as WERI director from Oct. 1, 2016 through Sept. 30, 2022, we worked diligently with the Guam Waterworks Authority, Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Marianas, and WERIs U.S. Geological Survey partner agency, the Pacific Island Water Science Center, Honolulu, USGS-PIWSC, to establish OGWRIP.

This agreement was a direct outcome of the landmark One-Guam Water Memorandum of Understanding signed on Dec. 7, 2016 by GWA; Guam Consolidated Commission on Utilities, NFM, and Joint Region Marianas to maximize the effectiveness of the overall Department of Defense and GWA water utility systems as a whole.

It provides funding from GWA and NFM that complements the Guam Legislatures annual allocations to UOG for part of USGS data collection and WERI analyses and research.

OGWRIP was launched Oct. 21, 2022, in a Memorandum of Agreement signed on the UOG campus by then UOG President Thomas Krise, GWA General Manager Miguel Bordallo, NFM Commanding Officer Capt. Troy Brown, and PIWSC Director John Hoffman.

GWA invested $3.7 million (from a federal buildup-impact grant) to rehabilitate 12 groundwater observation wells installed in 1982 on GovGuam land and install seven additional new wells on Guams military installations.

With this infrastructure in place, the aquifer is now fully instrumented, GWA and NFM provide maintenance and security for the data-collection infrastructure, USGS-PIWSC installs and services the scientific instruments at each station, and WERI-USGS are expanding collaboration on data analyses, research, and reporting.

These commitments will benefit from the same leadership and administrative skills that have already put SENG on its fast upward trajectory of success.
My island of Guam, made famous in song and by the military, is as rich with cultural roots, the very roots that innately guide each village, as it is with an intrinsic sense of history.

My parents, who had been living during the golden ages, sometimes told me stories about a period wherein culture and religion was the basis of the village. They would share about how every indigenous village was a tiny radiant example of tradition, rooted so completely in honoring our ancestors and the sacredness of all life.

Our deep sense of identity, reinforced by common experience, values, and traditions, helped us navigate through decades of development and our relationships with the environment.

Expanding my lens to view these experiences through the largely positive lens of cultural or religious tourism, its clear that these very aspects of our culture and religion can reveal the beauty within our souls, as they offer perennial attraction to those willing to explore underneath a places surface in search of its true spirit.

From pre-colonial times even before the Spanish, each village on Guam has sheltered within its own walls a multifaceted layer of CHamoru tradition, culture and religious expression. That sense of community was essential to our survival, its what held families, respect for elders, and respect for our spiritual practices together.

Life in the village was a little rustic; it was spiritually rich beyond most Americans imaginings. We all depended on each other, whether it was for harvesting crops, navigating the seas to fish and celebrating lifes biggest occasions together.

Religion was key to all these daily pursuits, with most of the communities rooted around their individual Catholic churches, where the sacred rites and social life were experienced.

Traditions such as the patron saint Fiesta, which united the entire village in a colorful pageant of faith, celebration, and cultural heritage, welcomed newcomers into the fold.

These celebrations were culturally shared experiences, they stood for who we were, who we are, who we always will be, ingrained in our values, taught from Elder to youth. Our elders always told us that the heart of our culture was in these relationships, in how we sang and danced with the joy of being alive, in love and rooted in our shared ancestry.

Whether it was the contagious rhythm of the CHamoru dancers or the spice from our traditional Guamanian food, the culture and heart of Guam was visible and palpable everywhere. It was less about tradition and more about community, the bond between man and the cultivated land, and the worship of our God, and the worship of our families.

Today, these traditions, steeped in history and cultural significance, can provide a lot back to Guams tourism economy. By welcoming the same forces that created the bedrock of island life, Guam can become a place not only celebrated for its beaches and resorts, but for its cultural and spiritual depth, too.

Tourism cant just be about things that you can see with your eyes. It has to be about providing visitors with the opportunity to experience the customs and daily life of the islands residents.

Giving travelers a dive into the culture of each village would be a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors looking to learn about the true, beating soul of Guam.

For instance, in village contacts such as Inarajan, where traditional bailes (dances) and storytelling still flourish, tourists experience immersive cultural exchanges that introduce the Hafa Adai spirit, a yearning for an innate Guahan cultural form, like familial connections.

Visitors were able to see up close the ways in which ancient CHamoru traditions are preserved today in song, dance, and language.

Next they might participate in the villages annual fiesta celebrations, which include displays by local artisans who demonstrate their handicrafts and prepare native dishes, providing travelers with an authentic flavor of Guams culinary heritage.

Next stop along Guams storied coastal road is Humatak, a village founded by CHamorus over two millennia ago. Today, they have been paired with the historic Spanish Plaza, allowing this important historic landmark to stand as a testament to Guams rich and varied history.

Educational and cultural tours that explore the islands history, like the significance of the traditional paseo (walk) and community gatherings, provide an eye-opening education. Through sharing their local history and culture, they protect the islands cultural identity for future generations while giving tourists an opportunity to understand more about Guams complex and rich history and culture.

Villages such as Yona or Malesso that have rich agricultural fields and fishing villages could provide eco-tourism experiences. Visitors would be introduced to the islands ancient agricultural heritage, from ancient irrigation networks to ancient Hawaiian farming techniques still in use today, with immersive experiences such as coconut harvesting or fishing alongside local fishermen.

That combination of adventure and culture would produce a touching link to Guams earth that countless visitors crave but rarely have the chance to experience.

By amplifying these experiences, we help make tourism on Guam more than just a beach vacation or mall visit, rather, an intimate encounter with the islands people, culture, and stories that create its unique fabric.

As the recent Tentative Tourism Master Plan has suggested, the villages of Guam, through their distinctive cultural assets, have the ability to reel in travelers looking for genuine experiences.

Each village, with its own history and traditions, would be able to offer a vast, colorful palette of experiences that attract travelers hoping to experience cultures that have continued for hundreds of years. Guams villages are a huge draw for tourists looking for unique, genuine cultural experiences.

Guam really is the key to an untapped treasure in terms of paradise, beauty and tourism. These cultural, artistic, religious and historical practices go beyond acts of remembrance for those who survived them. They are, quite literally, active and palpable expressions of our islands culture.

By exploring these customs, we can create pathways for a deeper, more fulfilling tourism experience that will invigorate Guams economy and better protect and celebrate the vibrant cultural tapestry that makes Guam so special.

Every village has a stake in this legacy. They can help make Guam the premier destination for cultural tourism in the entire Pacific.
As I mentioned last week, my early years at the University of Guam established many of my research views and over time I have refined many of my views. Also, I had to develop island-specific methods to fully study government and business behavior on Guam and in the region.

In the media, my election-related polls are often discussed and debated on a regular basis. The reason I do so many election polls is that these events provide a convenient test on how accurate our various polling and research methods are.

By chance, I found that small well drawn samples can be just as reliable or accurate in our setting as much larger samples. In one large class, I had assigned three separate groups to gather data on a number of questions. When I compared the data side by side, I found that the data was consistent.

At first I didnt believe it, so I had a fourth group collect the same data and I got the same results. I then shared this point with a marketing colleague and we ran two independent data collections. Again, we ended up with virtually the same results.

What this showed is that small samples can work, but even more importantly, a time series of small samples can provide insights that we do not normally see. By the 2010 elections, I had perfected these methods and I found the key on Guam was opinion shifts over the weekend.

I started doing small samples three times a week and the strong shift was on the weekend. I believe that this was due to social and family events on the weekend and possibly alcohol consumption. I also found that the Guam pre-election weekend was often impacted by public holidays in many cases.

The weekend coupled with Halloween, All Saints Day and All Souls Day could create a perfect opinion shift opportunity. This is why I believe opinion cascades or strong opinion shifts can happen over these weekends. Most research methods in the U.S. mainland would not detect these points.

I also studied in depth why work is often left undone on Guam. I believe it is related to the weather. Unlike many places in the U.S. mainland, we do not have seasons here to remind us that time has passed.

It often feels like the same day every day or that days blur together. I believe this has an effect on focus and work. I tell all my students to use a physical calendar and mark dates on it and track time.

Another factor I began to track early on was the effect K-12 school grudges may have on business and government behavior. I first noticed this when I was working on a project with an elected official. I suggested a particular person might be able to help. The official strongly opposed this and we selected someone else.

Later that day, we went out to dinner and talked off book about the project. I asked why the person I suggested was not selected and I was told that the person had bullied this official 30 years before. I was told, tigers do not change their stripes.

Thirty years? I began to track and document this over and over again.




Haiti - FLASH : Temporary victory against Trump for beneficiaries of the Biden program





A federal appeals court in Boston rejected the Trump administration's request and upheld a decision by U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani blocking the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) attempt to eliminate deportation protections and work permits for beneficiaries of the Humanitarian Parole program, also known as the "Biden Program." hhttps://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-44668-haiti-flash-federal-judge-blocks-trump-s-order-on-biden-program.html . The program granted immigration permits allowing eligible individuals to reside and work in the United States for two years.



The court ruled that Secretary of Homeland Security Elaine Duke had not convincingly demonstrated the categorical revocation of the beneficiaries' parole. He acknowledged that the plaintiffs have the legal right to challenge the revocation of their conditional residency status and suspended the Trump administration's decision. The beneficiaries claim to have complied with the U.S. government's requirements and believe the Trump administration must hold up its end of the bargain.



This decision temporarily prevents the revocation of parole status for half a million beneficiaries, including 110,240 Cubans, 211,040 Haitians, 93,070 Nicaraguans, and 117,330 Venezuelans. Many of them reside in South Florida.



Advocates hope that federal authorities will grant asylum seekers the right to remain pending their cases, despite the expiration of their conditional residency status. However, asylum applications, TPS, and the Cuban Adjustment Act may face potential obstacles, even with the judge's decision, as the Trump administration refuses to extend these protections.



It's important to note that migrant parole status legally expires at different times, some as early as next month, others in 2026.



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-44527-haiti-flash-end-of-the-biden-program-210-000-haitians-have-30-days-to-leave-the-usa.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-44459-haiti-flash-trump-administration-launches-mobile-app-for-self-expulsion.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-44133-haiti-flash-more-than-200-000-haitians-benefiting-from-the-biden-program-risk-expulsion.html



SL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Education : Distribution of Malta H in schools





On Tuesday, May 6, 2025, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Mr. Kevenot Dorvil, General Coordinator of the National School Canteen Program (PNCS), and Stephane Dejoie, Director of Cooperative Affairs at the Brasserie Nationale d'Haiti BRANA S.A.



Through this agreement, the two institutions are joining forces to ensure the supply of Malta H to public schools. For the pilot phase of this partnership, the PNCS and BRANA S.A. are targeting a total of 10,000 schoolchildren, who will benefit from Malta H twice a week for one month, Mr. Dorvil explained on the sidelines of the signing, emphasizing that this agreement reflects a long-term commitment to providing Malta H to all Haitian students in the classroom in the coming years. This initiative is in line with the PNCS's vision to meet children's school feeding needs while promoting national agricultural production.



This agreement will also ensure a reliable supply of high-quality products, including Malta H, that comply with health standards and nutritional requirements defined by the relevant authorities for the benefit of students.



The pilot phase of this agreement will last one month.



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - News : Zapping...





Delmas 41 : Couple Shot Dead

Early Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in Delmas 41, entrepreneur Bazelais Ramfort and his wife Christine Campbell Ramfort, while driving their vehicle, were shot several times by heavily armed individuals. Their daughter, also in the vehicle, was injured and rushed to the hospital.



41% Increase in Customs Revenue

According to data from the General Customs Administration (AGD), customs revenue for April 2025 reached nearly 9.2 billion Gourdes, compared to 6.5 billion in April 2024, a 41% increase.



MSME Support Fund

On May 6, 2025, the Haitian Federation of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (FHAPM) and the Government jointly launched a support fund for Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs), as well as a Business Development Service (BDS). This initiative aims to assist entrepreneurs affected by insecurity.



Voluntary Return : 15,000 Haitians Expected

Georges Wilbert Franck, the Minister of Social Affairs, estimated that more than 15,000 Haitians voluntarily returning from the Dominican Republic are expected in Haiti. The Minister specified that arrangements will be made at three official border points, capable of receiving between 200 and 600 migrants per day.



USA : 1 Free Plane Ticket and $1,000

This Monday, May 5, 2025, the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a new incentive for irregular migrants on American soil: in exchange for financial support of $1,000 and a free plane ticket, they are encouraged to voluntarily leave the United States...



6 billion Gourdes for the implementation of the Multisectoral Emergency Program

On May 6, 2025, Georges Wilbert Franck, Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, confirmed during his participation in the 7th edition of "Tuesdays of the Nation" that the Government had a budget of 6 billion Gourdes this year for the implementation of the Multisectoral Emergency Program (PUM). This amount will be used to finance several projects, including strengthening the craft industry, modernizing the Social Insurance Fund (CAS), and strengthening the Ministry's capacity.



HL/ HaItiLibre


















In a surprising move first reported by the South China Morning Post, retired Harvard University chemist and nanoscientist Charles Lieber has joined Tsinghua University as a chair professor, marking a new chapter in his illustrious yet controversial career. Lieber, aged 66, was convicted in 2021 for failing to disclose his connections to a Chinese talent program, a case that highlighted tensions in U.S.-China academic collaborations. Now, he is set to conduct research at Tsinghua's Shenzhen International Graduate School, a hub launched in 2019 by one of China's top universities.

Lieber's pioneering work in nanotechnology, particularly its applications in biology and medicine, has earned him global recognition. His decision to join Tsinghua comes after a high-profile legal battle in the United States, where he faced charges related to nondisclosure of his involvement with China's Thousand Talents Plan. The conviction drew significant attention, raising questions about academic freedom, international partnerships, and the scrutiny faced by researchers with ties to China.

At Tsinghua, Lieber aims to advance his research in the vibrant and innovative city of Shenzhen, a global tech hub. The Shenzhen International Graduate School is known for fostering cutting-edge research and attracting top talent, making it a fitting destination for a scientist of Lieber's caliber. His appointment underscores China's ongoing efforts to bolster its academic institutions by recruiting prominent global researchers, even amidst geopolitical tensions.

This move also reflects broader trends in academic mobility. Tsinghua has recently attracted other high-profile researchers, such as AI scientist Alex Lamb, who joined its College of AI as an assistant professor. These recruitments highlight China's strategic focus on advancing fields like artificial intelligence and nanotechnology, positioning institutions like Tsinghua as global competitors in scientific innovation.

Lieber's transition to Tsinghua has sparked mixed reactions. Some view it as a testament to China's growing appeal as a destination for top-tier researchers, while others see it as a controversial move given his legal history. The case continues to fuel debates about the balance between national security and the open exchange of scientific knowledge, particularly in the context of U.S.-China relations.

As Lieber embarks on this new role, his work at Tsinghua could shape the future of nanotechnology and its applications. His presence in Shenzhen may also strengthen academic ties between China and the global scientific community, even as it prompts ongoing discussions about the complexities of international research collaborations.
On May 6, 2025, the most important patent of the Danish company Asetek expires: PCT/DK2005/000310 or US8240362. The patent describes a CPU cooler with an integrated pump for all-in-one water cooling systems. It is largely responsible for the small selection of cooler designs.

Anzeige

While there are countless variants from different manufacturers, most of them use underlying designs from Asetek. Only the Canadian company Coolit offers alternatives in larger quantities. Following patent disputes, both companies reached an out-of-court agreement on the use of the design idea. Asetek consistently dragged other manufacturers to court.

A handful of manufacturers are circumventing Asetek's patent. All they need to do is place the water pump and the cooling plate in two different chambers within the same radiator housing. This includes EK Water Blocks' EK-AIO (ab 118,99 ). Alphacool uses a DDC-type pump on the CPU cooler in its Eisbaer models. Aqua Computer and Alphacool also offer radiators with a flange-mounted pump (ab 177,14 ).

20 years of service over

Asetek founder Andre Sloth Eriksen filed the patent PCT/DK2005/000310 on May 6, 2005. Patents usually expire after 20 years. Google has noted the date accordingly.

The patent expiry potentially facilitates innovations in the world of all-in-one or compact water cooling systems. Manufacturers no longer have to expect lawsuits if they want to try out something of their own.

Asetek wrote in its last quarterly report at the end of April that a company is said to be interested in taking over the cooler business. Various companies are also said to have knocked on the door for a partnership in cooling systems for data centers. In addition to water cooling systems, Asetek also produces peripherals for racing simulators.

Anzeige

Empfohlener redaktioneller Inhalt Mit Ihrer Zustimmung wird hier ein externer Preisvergleich (heise Preisvergleich) geladen. Preisvergleiche immer laden Preisvergleich jetzt laden

(mma)

Don't miss any news  follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Mastodon. This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical assistance and editorially reviewed before publication.
The ruling freed 26-year-old Columbia University graduate student Mohsen Mahdawi after more than two weeks in immigration custody. He emerged from the Burlington, Vermont, federal courthouse to supporters chanting "No fear!" and raised peace signs while declaring, "We are pro-peace and anti-war," according to BBC News.

The decision followed a petition from Mahdawi's lawyers, who argued he was being punished for political speech. Crawford cited First Amendment concerns and "the public interest in his freedom,". "A light of hope, hope and faith in the justice system in America," Mahdawi said of the ruling.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers had detained Mahdawi on April 14, 2025, during what he believed would be the final step of his naturalization interview. He was held at the Northwest State Correctional Facility in St. Albans. Born and raised in a refugee camp in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, he arrived in the United States on a student visa and co-founded Columbia's Palestinian Student Union. Video recorded by a friend showed plain-clothes Department of Homeland Security agents escorting him while he flashed a V-for-victory sign.

Government attorneys sought his removal under the Immigration and Nationality Act, arguing that his campus activism "could have serious consequences for U.S. foreign policy," BBC News reported. Secretary of State Marco Rubio claimed his actions might undermine the Middle East peace process, noted USA Today. "It is a privilege to be granted a visa or green card to live and study in the United States of America. When you advocate for violence, glorify and support terrorists that relish the killing of Americans, and harass Jews, that privilege should be revoked, and you should not be in this country," said Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin.

"The claims against Mohsen Mahdawi are baseless and a disgrace to the U.S. Constitution," said attorney Luna Droubi. She called the arrest "direct retaliation for his advocacy on behalf of Palestinians" and confirmed a civil lawsuit alleging violations of his free-speech rights.
Berlin, end of April. On this Tuesday, the sun is shining warmly from the sky in front of Apple's capital city headquarters above a hip, renovated hotel in Mitte. But the warmth emanating from an event inside the historic building is even more palpable. 110 developers and app managers have gathered there at the invitation of the German App Store editorial team for Developer Day. With a fantastic view over parts of Berlin, there is laughter and discussion, but almost no arguing.

Anzeige

A few weeks before the WWDC developer conference, this event, to which the trade press is also invited, is an exciting mood check. Of course, the content is different: the developers are once again told about the advantages of Apple Intelligence, discuss monetization strategies and other important topics of their daily work. For the journalists, there is a round table with some developers, where they discuss the advantages of the Mac in the context of small and medium-sized companies and present their apps (tenor: the Mac is standard  and very popular with developers). Afterwards, there is still the opportunity to exchange ideas with all the participants, who alternate between quick pitches ("With this app, they're donating another meal to Unicef") and warm reunions ("I remember when Ulysses GmbH was still called The Soulmen").

Bild 1 von 4 Apps aus Deutschland: Vier Beispiele (4 Bilder) Ahead ist eine App, die als personlicher Coach fur emotionale Fahigkeiten eingesetzt werden kann. Grunder Kai Koch und sein Team entwickeln die App von Berlin aus. (Bild: Ahead )

But beyond the content, this Dev Day also seems to be a kind of self-affirmation: In the early years of the App Store, the audience at the worldwide developer conference WWDC would howl with delight when Steve Jobs would flash the billion-dollar payout check and muse about how much developers and Apple benefit from each other. But can Apple still be sure of developers' approval in the spring of 2025? Or is it really bubbling under the surface?

Lots of crunch potential

Anyone following the news over the last few weeks could sense a lot of crunch potential ahead of the global developer conference WWDC: there is the US judge who has used harsh words to order Apple to finally implement her ruling. App developers should be allowed to sell their services outside the App Store and link to them in their apps without paying extra fees. Meanwhile, the European Commission is criticizing Apple's competitive behaviour, accusing the US company of even hindering sideloading and alternative app stores. And then, of course, there is the discussion about Apple's artificial intelligence  the better Siri is a long time coming, and what about Apple's AI development tools?

But if you talk to the small and medium-sized developers in Berlin, you won't get the impression that Apple's relationship with its App Store developers is clouded ahead of the big developer conference in June. Sure, when it comes to AI, you would wish for more  Most of the people I talk to have been using it for a long time  but then it's Microsoft's Copilot and Claude Code that are being used. Apple AI interfaces and tools, which could come this year and are eagerly awaited, are expected to provide better data protection and a deeper understanding of the specific needs of the Apple world. And, of course, the question about Apple's royalties is always answered with a laugh: "Of course we'd like to give up fewer percentages. Who wouldn't?".

Anzeige

From rags to riches

However, billionaire plaintiffs such as Tim Sweeney from Epic Games, who wants to fight for a far-reaching opening, or the loud rumblings of Apple's music streaming competitor and market leader Spotify are reportedly met with little sympathy from the audience. Alternative app marketplaces, as introduced by the EU? They only create additional work without any recognizable gain. "We'd have to hire two first," says one of the developers . After all, Apple does everything for you. "One click takes you to 164 countries," says Kai Koch from Ahead. "It makes little sense to do it yourself." For the big players, some people agree, but it certainly does. Another dev admits that it would of course be nice to have to give a little less of a percentage to Apple. But is it worth it?

And then there it is, the rift  but not between Apple and developers in general, but between the needs and views of small and large developers. The chance of successfully publishing an app worldwide as a one-man show or as a small start-up team has become smaller in view of the many apps in the store. But they still exist, these success stories. In attendance were bosses and founders of app developers who can easily feed 50 to 100 mouths in their company. Medium-sized hidden champions, all thanks to the App Store. From dishwasher to millionaire, so to speak: And fortunately, Apple provides a dishwasher for this, instructs the new dishwashers comprehensively, gives tips and assistance  that welds them together.

Apple's love for small developers

Most of the money for Apple's growing Services division is certainly made by the big players in the App Store, who  are aware of their importance and are very self-confident . But Apple's heart still beats recognizably for the little ones, who lend the company glamour and glory  and who, it is also true, are easier for the company to control. With measures such as the Small Business Program, which grants developers with a turnover of less than one million US dollars per year significantly lower levies, the iPhone manufacturer took the pressure off precisely this group when the discussion about excessive levies began. They wisely did not do the same for the big players who acted as plaintiffs and vociferous critics.

Of course, this is all strategy. Nothing could be more dangerous for Apple than the all-encompassing alliance of large and small developers that Sweeney, who runs his own  app store, albeit a cheaper one , would like to conjure up. But just a few weeks before WWDC, this alliance is not in sight, not even in the slightest. The major conflicts surrounding the App Store hardly play a role on a small scale. At most, we are annoyed by a slow-reacting App Review, the gatekeeper system for iOS apps,  or by its sometimes strange decisions. And Apple's bond of friendship with small and medium-sized developers is even thicker than the rules and regulations that the company imposes on its partners in the App Store. It looks like sunshine in Cupertino for June this year too.

Contributor: Ben Schwan

Empfohlener redaktioneller Inhalt Mit Ihrer Zustimmung wird hier ein externer Preisvergleich (heise Preisvergleich) geladen. Preisvergleiche immer laden Preisvergleich jetzt laden

(mki)

Don't miss any news  follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Mastodon. This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical assistance and editorially reviewed before publication.
The crash took place at approximately 10:50am within a military zone adjacent to the airport. According to the Finnish Defence Forces, the pilot ejected before impact and was recovered by rescue teams. He was taken for further medical examination.

There were no reported injuries on the ground.

Witnesses observed a dense column of black smoke rising from the crash site. Mika Lehtiniemi, who was driving nearby at the time, said the aircraft was flying at an unusually low altitude over a residential area.

The plane rose sharply and flipped onto its back. A few seconds later I saw thick black smoke. I didnt see flames, only a terrible amount of smoke, Lehtiniemi said.

He said he was relieved to learn that the pilot had used the ejection seat.

Emergency services responded to what was described as a major air traffic incident. Several fire units and police teams were dispatched. Police closed access to the road leading to the airport and began securing the area. According to Jouni Koivunen, a police spokesperson, all nearby roads would likely be closed while operations continued.

The investigation will be led by the Finnish Air Force in cooperation with local police. Police will only launch their own criminal investigation if there is reason to suspect unlawful activity.

The cause of the crash has not been confirmed.

The accident occurred during a two-day meeting of Nordic defence ministers hosted by Antti Hakkanen, Finlands Minister of Defence. The ministers had planned to observe training exercises by Finnish conscripts in the Rovaniemi area. The event was cancelled due to the crash.

The Finnish Air Force plans to hold a press briefing later on Wednesday. No additional information has been provided regarding the pilots condition.

The crash site lies within a restricted area where new infrastructure for F-35 aircraft is being developed. Media have been denied access to the scene.

According to Finavia, the incident has not disrupted civilian air traffic. Flights in and out of Rovaniemi Airport remain on schedule. The next arriving flight from Helsinki is due at 1:35pm, with a return flight at 2:15pm. Finavia said passengers would be informed of any future changes.

Smoke was visible from several parts of the city shortly after the crash. Journalists working in the Napapiiri area near the airport noted a strong smell of smoke around 11am. The smoke had begun to clear by 11:10am.

HT
The NBI said on Tuesday it suspects Ekpa of publicly encouraging crimes committed with terrorist intent and contributing to the actions of a terrorist group. The investigation stems from a broader inquiry into international terrorism, launched last year.

Finlands National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has concluded a preliminary probe that identifies former Lahti city councillor Simon Ekpa as a suspect in terrorism-related crimes.

Police detained Ekpa, a dual Finnish-Nigerian citizen, in November 2023 alongside four other individuals. The other suspects were later released.

As we suspected that the consequences of the public exhortation and the activities of a terrorist group occurred in Nigeria, we cooperated with the Nigerian authorities during the criminal investigation, said Detective Superintendent Otto Hiltunen.

The case has now been referred to the Deputy Prosecutor General to assess whether charges will be filed.

Ekpa, a former candidate for Finlands National Coalition Party in Lahti, has gained notoriety for his association with Biafran separatist movements in Nigeria. His frequent calls for civil disobedience, including election boycotts, have drawn international attention and criticism.

He has previously defended the use of violence as a legitimate tool in pursuit of separatist goals. In 2023, Finnish police detained Ekpa briefly on suspicion of fundraising fraud, but he was released later the same day.

The NBI has not released specific details about the group to which Ekpa is alleged to have contributed, nor the exact nature of his suspected involvement.

The investigation has been conducted under Finlands criminal code provisions related to terrorism. If formally charged and convicted, the offences could result in a substantial prison sentence.

Police said further public comment will depend on the prosecutors decision. No timeline was given for when the charging decision will be made.

HT
According to a police statement, the situation was categorised as a low-risk inspection.

Authorities received an alert shortly after 10:00am regarding an unidentified item sent to the bank. Emergency services, including several fire units and police patrols, were deployed to the scene.

A suspicious letter delivered to the OP bank branch on Mikonkatu in central Helsinki on Wednesday morning prompted a police and rescue operation.

No injuries were reported and no evacuation was required. The branch continued to operate throughout the incident.

Thomas Salomaa, head of basic services at OP Uusimaa, confirmed the delivery of what he called an unusual letter. He said staff followed standard procedures by notifying the authorities.

If something abnormal is identified, we contact the authorities as a precaution, Salomaa said. At this point, the police and rescue services are conducting an investigation. The situation is under control and we are following their instructions.

Police have not disclosed the contents of the letter. The examination remained ongoing as of early afternoon. Investigators were working inside the building while emergency vehicles remained parked outside.

A journalist from Yle at the scene described the atmosphere as calm. Customers inside the branch continued with their business and appeared unaware of the situation unfolding. Police allowed access to the premises and traffic around the area remained unaffected.

Salomaa said the bank had not received any specific information from the authorities about the nature of the item or the potential threat.

There is no cause for alarm, but we are awaiting more details ourselves, he said shortly after 12:30pm.

The incident is being handled by Helsinki Police with support from the citys fire department. No criminal investigation has been announced.

HT
The airline confirmed on Wednesday that two flights had already been diverted: one from Helsinki to Delhi and another from Singapore to Helsinki. Both routes were adjusted after Pakistan began closing certain air corridors in response to Indian military strikes.

Finnair has rerouted several of its long-haul flights after airspace restrictions were imposed over Pakistan due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.

Suvi Aaltonen, Finnairs communications manager, said the changes are currently limited to flights to and from India, particularly those involving Delhi. She confirmed that no flights had been cancelled.

The flight to Delhi, already airborne at the time of the strikes, made an unscheduled fuel stop in Baku, Azerbaijan. It then continued via a longer route that avoided Pakistani airspace. The return flight from Singapore was redirected through Doha, Qatar.

The rerouting has a significant impact on the flight duration for the Delhi route, Aaltonen said. Flights to Delhi will now take several hours longer than usual.

Finnairs next scheduled flight to Delhi was due to depart Helsinki-Vantaa Airport on Wednesday evening. Aaltonen said final routing decisions for that flight were still under review.

Most of Finnairs other Asia-bound services typically fly north of Pakistan and remain unaffected. Aaltonen added that the airline is monitoring the situation continuously in coordination with authorities and other airlines.

Finnair was slower to reroute compared to several major carriers, including Air France and Lufthansa, which announced changes on Tuesday. Data from the Flightradar24 tracking service showed Finnair flights still traversing Pakistani airspace as late as 9pm Finnish time on Tuesday. Other carriers, including Emirates, Saudia, and Turkish Cargo, had already diverted.

Asked about the timing, Aaltonen said Finnair makes independent safety assessments based on information from global aviation authorities and real-time intelligence.

We observed throughout the day that the airspace remained safe, she said. Only later in the evening did we determine that some corridors were being closed by Pakistan, prompting us to reroute.

Paivyt Tallqvist, Finnairs director of communications, added that passenger and crew safety remains the airlines highest priority.

We continuously monitor the status of global airspace and follow official guidance, she said. Our actions reflect evolving assessments and the information available at the time.

There has been no indication that any Finnair flights were in danger. Aaltonen stressed that the airline would never operate a route if there were any concerns flagged in its risk evaluations.

India has claimed responsibility for strikes on nine targets in Pakistan and in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Pakistan reported the use of missiles in three locations. The developments have led several airlines in Asia to revise or suspend flight routes to and from Europe.

Finnair said the duration and scope of the rerouting measures remain uncertain. The airline is maintaining flexibility and will continue to update its operational decisions based on emerging information and government guidance.

HT
Murto, who leads the Trade Union of Education (OAJ), said on Tuesday that the partys recent advertising, which contrasted the tax impact on unionised and non-unionised teachers, was a step too far.

The chair of Finlands largest teachers union, Katarina Murto , has resigned from the National Coalition Party in protest at a political ad campaign she described as an attack on organised labour.

The ad, published by the party, visually implied that teachers who belong to unions would receive smaller income tax reductions than those who do not. This outcome stems from the governments decision to remove the tax deductibility of union membership fees  a policy adopted in the recent spending framework agreement.

"I find the campaign deeply troubling and a bewildering attack not only on teachers but on all wage earners who are union members," Murto said in a public Facebook post.

She confirmed that she has now left the National Coalition Party after more than two decades of membership.

The party membership allowed me to advocate effectively for employees and the organisations I represent. But I can no longer support a party that targets the foundation of our labour model, she wrote.

Murto clarified that she would not be joining another party.

The backlash follows broader criticism from trade unions about the government's labour market reforms, including the so-called export-led wage model and an increase in local bargaining powers. The unions argue these policies disproportionately affect public sector workers and undermine collective bargaining.

The removal of tax deductibility for union and employer association membership fees was one of the most contentious decisions made by the coalition in its mid-term review.

Jari Jokinen, the longstanding managing director of the Academic Engineers and Architects in Finland (TEK), also said he is considering leaving the party. Jokinen has been a member of the National Coalition Party for 41 years.

"I joined the party when I was in high school because it stood for individual responsibility and rational governance. But this move shows a worrying ignorance of how our labour market functions," he said.

Jokinen stressed that organised labour brings predictability to the economy and warned that dismantling the current system would endanger industrial peace.

The current model allows companies to rely on negotiated terms without having to draft separate agreements themselves. If we destroy this, we risk destabilising the entire labour framework, he said.

He added that while he had previously disagreed with the governments direction, such as pushing local bargaining or export-driven pay models, this latest development goes beyond policy.

"This campaign misrepresents what union membership means and devalues one of the most important collective tools employees have," he said. Jokinen said he would sleep on the decision before making his resignation final.

In response to the controversy, the National Coalition Party acknowledged the criticism. Communications and public affairs manager Raine Tiessalo said the campaign had failed to convey its message as intended.

The aim was sincere: to visualise how tax reductions would affect different people, he said. But we acknowledge that we failed. The images will be withdrawn, and we will learn from this.

The campaign and the backlash come amid a politically tense climate, as the government continues to push through reforms affecting unions and employment legislation. Union leaders and opposition politicians have warned that the direction of labour policy may have long-term consequences for Finlands employment relations.

HT
In an open letter addressed to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), the artists cite Israels actions in Gaza and its broader treatment of Palestinians as the basis for the demand. The letter refers to genocide against the Palestinians in Gaza and a decades-long regime of apartheid and military occupation.

More than 70 former Eurovision contestants have called for Israel and its national broadcaster KAN to be banned from this years competition, scheduled to take place in Basel, Switzerland, on 17 May.

Signatories include past Eurovision winners such as Charlie McGettigan, Salvador Sobral, and Fernando Tordo, as well as artists from several countries including Britains Mae Muller, Frances La Zarra, Turkeys Hadise Ackgoz, and Icelands 2024 entrants Asdis Maria and GATE.

Finnish signatories include Kaija Karkinen, who represented Finland in 1991, songwriter Timo Kiiskinen, and commentators Outi Popp and Sanna Kojo.

The letter urges the EBU to take action: By continuing to platform the representation of the Israeli state, the EBU is normalising and whitewashing its crimes. It compares the current situation to 2022, when the EBU barred Russia from the contest following its invasion of Ukraine, and accuses the EBU of applying double standards.

The artists write, We urge the EBU and all its member broadcasters to act now and prevent further discredit and disruption to the festival: Israel must be excluded from Eurovision.

Public pressure to ban Israel has grown in recent months. A petition backed by more than 56,000 signatures made similar demands. In Finland, more than 10,000 individuals and cultural figures signed an appeal in March urging national broadcaster Yle to support Israels exclusion.

Israels participation in the 2024 contest in Malmo also triggered protests and controversy. Contestant Eden Golan was loudly booed by parts of the audience, though she finished fifth overall after placing second in the public vote.

In that contest, Israels broadcaster KAN faced criticism for its conduct, including allegations by Irish artist Bambie Thug that KAN had incited violence. Israels entry, 'October Rain', was also subject to scrutiny over references to the 7 October attacks, leading to modifications before being accepted.

This year, Israel will be represented by 24-year-old Yuval Raphael, a survivor of the 2023 Nova music festival attack. He is set to perform 'New Day Will Rise' in the second semi-final.

Despite repeated calls for Israels exclusion, the EBU has so far defended its decision. In a statement, it said: The EBU is an association of public service broadcasters who are all eligible to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest every year. We are not immune to global events but, together, it is our role to ensure the Contest remains  at its heart  a universal event that promotes connections, diversity and inclusion through music.

Eurovision week will take place from 11 to 17 May, with two semi-finals and a grand final broadcast live from Basel. Among the other acts confirmed is Finnish artist Erika Vikman, who will perform in the second semi-final alongside Israels Yuval Raphael.

HT
The temporary closure of the iconic sauna at Finlands Permanent Representation (perm rep) to the EU in Brussels was covered in an article by Politico on April 28. The article sheds light on how a cultural staple  the sauna  plays a strategic role in Finnish diplomacy, and how its temporary closure in Brussels has not dampened the spirit of this tradition.

Here is a selection of what the international press has published about Finland in the last week:

Known for its unique blend of diplomacy and Finnish culture, this sauna has been a favored meeting spot among EU diplomats and Finnish officials for informal discussions and networking. The closure is due to renovations, and although an official reopening date hasnt been provided, insiders anticipate the sauna will remain out of use for about a year. Despite the closure, the tradition of sauna diplomacy will continue, with Finnish diplomats resorting to alternative locations such as the ambassadors residence sauna and the public sauna at the Finnish Seamens Mission on Rue Jacques de Lalaing.

This sauna has become a hallmark of Finnish diplomatic culture, influencing similar setups in the EUs Berlaymont building and NATO headquarters. Prominent figures like Finlands current President Alexander Stubb and former Prime Minister Jyrki Katainen have been regular guests, showcasing its significance beyond leisure  as a soft power tool for informal political discourse.

The piece highlights the deep-rooted connection between Finnish identity and sauna culture. Most Finnish diplomatic missions are equipped with a sauna, and the Finnish Sauna Society even grants an annual Loylynhenki Award to individuals or organizations promoting sauna culture. In 2011, Finlands foreign ministry received this honor in recognition of its contribution to sauna diplomacy.

Original story was published by Politico on 28.04.2025 and can be found here.

Transforming how humanity sees: Finnish IXI lands $36.5M to develop the worlds first autofocus glasses

Finnish hardware startup IXI securing $36.5 million in a Series A funding round to develop and commercialize the worlds first autofocus glasses was covered in an article by TechFundingNews.com on April 29. The article highlights how these autofocus glasses are designed to automatically adjust focus in real time and offer clear vision at any distance.

These smart glasses aim to replace traditional solutions like bifocals and progressives, which often come with limited fields of view and inconvenience. Founded in 2021 by Niko Eiden and Ville Miettinen, both former co-founders of mixed reality firm Varjo, IXI is based in Espoo, Finland, and was created to bring innovation to the stagnant eyewear industry.

The companys adaptive eyewear uses liquid crystal lenses and proprietary infrared sensors embedded in the lenses to detect eye convergence, rather than relying on energy-intensive cameras. A microcontroller in the glasses nose bridge interprets this data to instantly adjust focus, mimicking the way the human eye naturally functions. This technology consumes less than 1% of the power required by camera-based systems, enabling all-day battery life and protecting user privacy since it doesnt capture facial images.

IXI is positioning its glasses not just as vision correction tools, but as premium lifestyle products by collaborating with high-end fashion designers. The startup tested its prototypes with professionals like pilots and auto mechanics, who require fast shifts in focus, leading to features like dynamic tilt compensation. The companys tech involves miniaturized components, such as custom silicon chips and laser-etched optical layers, made possible by recent advances in wearable electronics. Investors backing IXI include Plural, Tesi, byFounders, Heartcore, Eurazeo, FOV Ventures, and Tiny Supercomputer, reflecting strong confidence in its potential to disrupt the $200 billion global eyewear market.

Original story was published by TechFundingNews.com on 28.04.2025 and can be found here.

If we keep going like this, no one will have a better life in Europe, Finnish minister

Finlands Interior Minister Marie Radanens call for migration reform in Europe was covered in an article by Kathimerini news on May 2. In this candid article, Radanen warned that the continents future could be at risk if current trends continue.

I understand people want a better life, she said in an interview with Kathimerini. But if we continue like this, no one will have a better life in Europe, Radanen added.

She stressed that while many migrants seek a better life, the unchecked flow of irregular migration, often facilitated by smuggling networks, is overwhelming the European asylum system. To address this, Radanen proposed a controversial plan to process asylum applications and grant refugee protection outside the European Union in designated safe third countries, thereby intercepting migrants before they reach EU borders.

Radanen, representing a right-wing coalition government, cited Finlands recent closure of its border with Russia as an example of necessary action, accusing Moscow of intentionally pushing migrants into Finland. She underscored that Finland, as both a European and NATO border nation, sees migration not only as a humanitarian issue but also as a matter of national and regional security.

While acknowledging Europes need for skilled labor, she distinguished between economic migration and asylum-seeking, advocating for straightforward work permit systems rather than asylum as a gateway to residency. Radanen also argued that citizenship should be earned through successful integration rather than automatically granted.

Original story was published by Kathimerini news on 02.05.2025 and can be found here.

Finland has asked the EU for relief to increase defence spending

Finlands formal request to the European Union to activate a special budget exemption mechanism that would allow it to significantly increase defence spending was covered in an article by The Political Lore on April 30. The article explores how the financial and strategic move underscores a broader European pivot toward defence preparedness amid escalating global tensions.

The Finnish government aims to boost its defence budget to at least 3% of its GDP by the year 2029. The Finnish Finance Ministry confirmed the request and noted that the European Commission is currently reviewing similar applications from multiple EU member states. A preliminary assessment will be issued by the Commission on June 4, followed by a decision from the EU Council in July regarding the application of fiscal exceptions for individual countries.

This request aligns with the EUs recently unveiled defence strategy, originally titled Rearmament of Europe but later rebranded as Readiness 2030 after objections from some member nations over its militaristic tone. The strategy aims to mobilize approximately 800 billion euros over four years to strengthen Europes defence capabilities. Of that, about 650 billion euros is expected to come directly from national budgets, with the remainder in the form of loans.

The Readiness 2030 initiative not only calls for increased defence spending (up to 1.5% of GDP EU-wide) but also includes measures such as redirecting regional development funds toward military needs and offering budgetary flexibility to enable this redirection.

Original story was published by The Political Lore on 30.04.2025 and can be found here.

HT
Brevard man convicted of sexually assaulting sleeping woman

A 29-year-old from Brevard man was sentenced to up to 12 years in prison on Monday after he pleaded guilty to second-degree sexual offense just before jury selection was to begin, District Attorney R. Andrew Murray announced.

Related Stories

According to the investigation and court trial records, on May 11, 2023, the victim went to a birthday party where she stayed the night and awoke to the defendant, Antonio Lajuan Lucas, digitally penetrating her. The victim and the defendant were not romantically involved but knew each other previously as acquaintances. Two other women came forward with similar stories of the defendant sexually assaulting them while they were sleeping. They also were never romantically involved with the defendant and only knew him as an acquaintance.

Superior Court Judge Robert Ervin, presiding during the Transylvania County Criminal Superior Court Session, sentenced the defendant to a minimum of six years one month and a maximum of 12 years four months in prison. Lucas will also have to register as a sex offender for 30 years and abide by the special laws regulating those who commit sex offenses.

Assistant District Attorneys Lily Ferry and Michael Van Buren handled the prosecution and sentencing of this crime. Murray thanked the Transylvania County Sheriffs Office and lead Detective Stony Gonce for the professional and thorough investigation of the case.

When someone sexually violates a person, helpless or not, they will be prosecuted accordingly," Murray said. "Prison is the appropriate place for a man who preys on women when sleeping.
Downtown shop owner honored as Main Street Champion

Downtown manager Jamie Carpenter and the city council pose with Caroline Gunther.

The N.C. Department of Commerce and N.C. Main Street & Rural Planning Center has honored Caroline Gunther as a 2024 North Carolina Main Street Champion by for her enduring leadership and transformative impact on downtown Hendersonville, the city announced.

Related Stories

Owner of Wag! A Unique Pet Boutique, Gunther was recognized during a special ceremony March 13 in Mooresville during the annual North Carolina Main Street Conference, the nations largest statewide downtown revitalization gathering. She was one of 47 individuals and organizations across the state to receive the honor this year.

Main Street Champions are dynamic leaders who drive progress within their communities, N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley said. These visionary individuals identify opportunities for growth and development that transform the fabric of local economies and neighborhoods.

For nearly two decades, Caroline has been a steadfast champion for Downtown Hendersonville, said Jamie Carpenter, Hendersonville's downtown manager. Her leadership, vision, and dedication have helped shape a vibrant, resilient downtown community.

As chair of the Downtown Advisory Board and its committees, Gunther led efforts on major initiatives, including an $8.5 million parking investment, the launch of the Hendersonville Farmers Market, a $3.5 million Seventh Avenue streetscape project and numerous policy updates designed to enhance the districts vitality.

The City Council honored Gunther at its May 1 meeting.

"Place attachment is the emotional bond and sense of belonging that individuals feel towards a particular location, she said. It is like you cry over it, it is deep seeded in your gut and your heart, and the joy of that is something I wish everyone could have.

Now in its 45th year, the North Carolina Main Street program aims to strengthen communities across the state using the time-tested Main Street America approach to downtown revitalization.
by Bill Murray

1

Even if Ronald Reagans actual governance gave you fits, his invocation of that shining city on a hill stood daunting and immutable, so high, so mighty, so permanent. And yet our American decay has been so avoidable, so banal, so sudden.

Our American decline wasnt born from calamity. It came not in crisis, not under fire, but amid an embarrassment of prosperity, beginning when the United States was the worlds only hyperpower.

Heres the puzzle: Americas Cold War opponent, the Soviet Union, collapsed in 2001. Three two-term presidents from both parties, Bill Clinton, George Dubya Bush and Barack Obama then steered the United States through its unipolar moment and straight into the arms of Donald Trump. How can that possibly be?

This hasnt been the greatest generation. Okay Boomer?



Forty year olds today can scarcely remember the last Soviet leader, Gorbachev. He was an interesting figure (maybe Google him). At the beginning of the 1990s the system he fronted collapsed in an unceremonious face plant.

I visited the Soviet Union three times before it collapsed into history. Its disease was fascinating. Such was latter-day Soviet deprivation that you could lure any Moscow taxi to the curb by brandishing a Marlboro flip-top box.

Its driver exhibited unusual affinity for his windshield wipershed bring them home with him every night. This wasnt aberrant, or excessive. If he hadnt, theyd have disappeared by morning. Levis jeans and pantyhose were currency.

The two or three Western standard hotels in both Moscow and Leningrad (soon renamed St. Petersburg) were cauldrons of incipient Capitalism, boiling over with every kind of dealmaking. Carpetbagging accountancies sent young men with fax machines to both cities, who taped their company names to the doors of hotel rooms and got to work. The room you hired might be across the hall from Coopers and Lybrand, or down the corridor from KPMG.

Alas, the accountants hadnt ridden into town to arrest the collapse of ordinary Russians standards of living, or to help raise up the good people who lived there. But then, they never go anywhere to do that.

I remember one long night at the Astoria Hotel bar on St. Isaacs Square in St. Petersburg, when an American man cancelled his credit card claiming it was stolen, then used it to buy rounds for the house all night.

Every man in that bar with currency (understood as money with value, since Rubles had next to none) was propositioned by professional women, doctors, researchers, assistant professors trained in English and abject with shame, who only do this once a month to make ends meet. The early 1990s were a revolutionary time, when almost anything might have happened, and most of it probably did.

Communisms tawdry collapse provides our point of departure, but this is not a Soviet history. Quite the opposite: I want to explore how, beginning with the Soviet collapse, just three American presidents, baby boomers all, let the unassailable might of unipolar America devolve into the reign of Donald Trump.

In the dock: Bill Clinton the globalist, George Dubya Bush the moralist, and Barack Obama the cool pragmatist. All three young, well-educated and well-meaning. Three two term presidents, from both parties, over twenty-four years.

How could they preside over such a squandering? How dare they?

2

Clinton, a 36 year old provincial governor, styled himself as the man from Hope, his Arkansas home town. He took office the year Gorbachev left the Kremlin.

The third youngest man to be elected president came to power at a time of unrivaled American supremacy. America exercised its power within the global architecture it had designed, it enforced, and from which it pulled the spoils.

Its the economy, stupid made Bill Clinton president. Rolling with what worked, he carried the same idea into foreign policy, where he pried open markets and expanded trade.

Clinton expressed his commitment to globalization by shifting U.S. policy toward constructive engagement with China, and by de-linking human rights from trade. The more China opens its markets, the more it will open its society. That was Clintons bet, and it was an honest one. It was plausible.

As it turned out, constructive engagement didnt democratize China. Instead, embracing China as a trade partner accelerated the decline of American industry, helping to chase prosperity from the American midwest.

Meanwhile, twenty months into Clintons first term Republican House Speaker Newt Gingrich proposed his Contract with America, reinforcing the Republican view that market-friendly solutions are the best solutions.

Gingrich flipped the Congress and inaugurated the relentless, adversarial politics that has grown hand in hand with the internet into the general meanness of today. It was the beginning of owning the Libs.

When Bill Clinton left office America was sixteen years from Donald Trump.

The 9/11 attack came less than a year into the first term of George Dubya Bush, who succeeded Clinton. Bushs visceral response was the war in Iraq.

The war effort drained resources for strengthening the social compact in what had become known, pejoratively, as the Rust Belt, although schemes to strengthen the social compact never much appealed to self-styled self-reliant, ruggedly individual Republicans in the first place.

Bush waged war in a way that fractured alliances, fueled cynicism and diminished faith in American leadership. Secretary of State Colin Powells Congressional testimony about Iraqi weapons of mass destruction was later discredited, causing huge damage to both Powell and the administration.

Toward the end of Dubyas second term, looser financial regulation led to a full blown worldwide financial crisis, centered around the shady financing of so called subprime mortgages.

We lived at the time on a small horse farm, and our circle of friends convened each spring around equestrian events like racings Triple Crown. One was a mortgage broker who reveled in closing loans for people who couldnt possibly afford the houses he helped them to buy.

Jobs like our friends were made possible by deregulatory schemes that produced the economic straits that, in 2008, Dubya bequeathed to Barack Obama.

Dubyas term ended eight years away from Donald Trump.

Obamas election was unprecedented, and the first Black president took his initial steps with caution. With the economy in chaos, Obama first sought to preserve the banking system. In the process, millions of American lost their homes  2.8 million homes received foreclosure notices in 2009 alone.

By now faith in our boomers leadership was already shaky. First came Clintons neglect of the Rust Belt, and then Dubyas wars of revenge. Confirmation of voters accumulated skepticism came with Obamas shoring up banks before homeowners.

Just nine months into his presidency Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prizean act of faith the Nobel Committee could only hope would be vindicated. As Obamas legion of critics suggested, maybe the prize should have been earned first.

During the cerebral Obama years, law, institutions, and charismatic leadership were the coins of the realm. The arc of the moral universe made up the presidents long game. Sustained attention to the folks back home was scarce. Obama campaigned on reducing spending.

Taking office with historic moral authority, he was (and still is) universally regarded as moral and corruption-free. But while Obama offered the promise of enlightened, educated leadership, he proposed littlebeyond military restraintin adapting to a rapidly changing world. He offered no enduring insight into how to address the future.

And the future was coming fast. By the mid-2010s the Arab Spring had collapsed into refugee flows toward Americas European allies. China was building and militarizing islands in the South China Sea. In 2014 Russia invaded Crimea. Parties of the far right were making inroads in the politics of Americas European allies. Brexit was coming. And by 2016 Donald Trump would be elected president.

Obamas response? Various drone strikes. Sanctions. Abandonment under political pressure of the Trans-Pacific Partnership. A cautious pivot to Asia left consummated.

Throughout, Barack Obama offered measured erudition. He projected the image of power. In the end Obamas tragedyif thats what you think it waswas a tragedy of inaction.

And then came Donald Trump.

3

Clinton, Dubya and Obama were very different men, each with his own priorities, goals and style of leadership. Vigorous, ivy-league educated technocrats all, they represented the self-assured vanguard of a new generation raised in post-World War II prosperity.

They were stewards of a victorious order, trained to believe the hard battles were behind them. They, and the governing professionals who advised them, believed history had ended.

Their new mandate: to manage the world to ever greater prosperity. This liberal managerialism wasnt laziness. It was belief in a steady hand and government by incrementalism.

While the Berlin Wall stood, gritty Cold War pragmatism kept fear of the collapse of freedom at the center of American politics. By the boomers time, the new American hyperpower had raised its sights to managing the world. Foreign policy became the sexy portfolio.

Raising the worlds standard of living (Clinton), swatting evildoers (Dubya) and pivoting to Asia (Obama)  these were the big jobs, jobs you could sink your teeth into. Who wanted to retrain Monongahela Valley steelworkers? Who wanted to argue with NIMBYs over affordable housing?



Presidents have choices, and these three in particular, all historically unconstrained abroad, had more options than most. Yet look where we are now. Why? Which choices brought us to today?

Blame Bill Clinton and his triangulation, or Newt Gingrich and his up-yours politics. Blame Dubyas moral certainty and his unpopular war, or blame Obamas elegant restraint.

But all three share one common bond: none chose to fashion a post-Cold War domestic social contract. Where FDRs New Deal and LBJs Great Society blazed new trails around ambitious, redefining national ideas, our post-Cold War troika had no such ambition.

Earlier generations were shaped by catastrophe, by depression or war; our three boomers were shaped by comfort and credentialism. Their leadership was not forged in fire; it was trained by seminar.

The boomers were technocrats, managing the country at a time that called for reimagining the world. Reagans city on the hill was never more than aspiration, but our three boomer presidents lack of vision managed to level it.

4

When the Congress, the courts and political parties become bit players in the larger antics of Matt Gaetz, Marjorie Taylor Greene, RFK Jr, Doctor Oz, Kristi Noem and Kari Lake, its safe to say that the American institutions in which they serve dont exactly represent what they once did.

You may still find the occasional politician willing to hold a town hall meeting in his or her district, but this is a disappearing vestige of participatory democracy. These days participatory democracy is watching the circus online, then offering summary judgement on X. Weve entered the age of the clown.

The clown is a manifestation of institutional decay. Weaponizing spectacle, theatrics and performative rule-breaking is anything but unique, recent history included. Consider Berlusconi. Bolsonaro. Bukele.

Clowns dont disguise their leadership-by-caricature; they revel in it. They wear their buffoonery as proof that they are authentic, as apart from the institutions they discredit.

Donald Trump knows this role instinctively. He mocks decorum and thereby the system. He scoffs at the future, at new ways of thinking. Hes a manifestation. He is an unfortunate culmination.

5

Not so long ago America and its democracy bestrode the globe. But even while it stood unchallenged, as former British Prime Minister Harold MacMillan had it, events, dear boy, events never slowed down. The world declined to stop, even for a hegemon.

None of our boomer presidents proposed even modest reforms of aging international institutionslike, say, overhaul of the United Nations. The US might have suggested relatively uncontroversial confidence-building measures among countries, or more ambitiously, a new postCold War security architecture, or a framework for grappling with global migration.

Yet even when Americas own domestic manufacturing base faltered under American-led globalization, somehow our trio of baby-boomer presidents failed to find even its repair worthy of a national crusade.

Three capable men armed with intelligence, ability and backed by unmatched national power. And none of them chose to reimagine the American project.

All three worked from the same, well-thumbed Cold War playbook. And when the country emerged victorious from the struggle against totalitarianism, none mounted a serious, methodical attempt to reimagine the American mission.

All three put faith in technocracy. They trusted the architects of systems they no longer questioned, the titans of finance and technology. They hoarded American might instead of using it, and found they couldnt manage their way to greatness.

They didnt betray their country; they mistook management for leadership. And when their time was up, the cost of their confusion, was the clowns.



I write more things like this every week, at Common Sense and Whiskey.

Enjoying the content on 3QD? Help keep us going by donating now.
Earnings reports show many US firms success inseparable from Chinese market

10:29, May 07, 2025 By Ma Jingjing, Tu Lei ( Global Times

When US coffee chain Starbucks first entered the Chinese market, only consumers in major cities like Beijing were able to frequent its stores. Today, residents in more than 1,000 county-level regions across China can enjoy the firm's coffees.

Following steady expansion in the Chinese market over the past 20 plus years, the number of Starbucks stores in China has reached 7,758 at the end of the quarter ending March 30. And with such expansion comes strong revenue growth. During the quarter, Starbucks reported that its revenue in the Chinese market reached $739.7 million, up 5 percent year-on-year, according to a press release the company sent to the Global Times.

Stronger sales

"In the second quarter of fiscal year 2025, we revitalized growth by focusing on core businesses: Financial indicators performed excellently and brand value continued to increase," Liu Wenjuan, co-chief executive of Starbucks China, was quoted in the Chinese press release as saying.

Starbucks is hardly alone among US companies that are seeing strong sales performances in the Chinese market, according to latest earnings reports released by multiple US businesses.

For example, US truck engine maker Cummins Inc reported results for the first quarter of 2025 on Monday US time, showing a 1 percent decline in North American sales and a 5 percent drop in international revenue, driven by weaker demand in Latin America and the Asia-Pacific. Notably, the company pointed out that those declines were partially offset by stronger sales in China.

According to an article on Yahoo Finance on Tuesday, Cummins saw its China revenue increase 9 percent to $1.8 billion, compared to a 3 percent drop in overall revenue.

US beverage maker Coca-Cola Co said its unit case volume grew 2 percent in the first quarter of 2025, led by India, China and Brazil. In China, during the Lunar New Year, activations featured Trademark Coca-Cola, Sprite and Minute Maid. The system contributed to high single-digit volume growth in the quarter, according to the company's financial results.

During the earnings call, Coca-Cola CEO James Quincey said that the company's growth in China stemmed from efforts made last year to streamline its product portfolio and reposition certain brands. In China, the focus on improving execution is paying off and has led to volume growth, according to a press release the company sent to the Global Times.

The strong growth highlighted the great importance of the Chinese market to US businesses, in that the success of many US businesses is inseparable from their operations in China, Zhou Mi, a senior research fellow at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, told the Global Times on Tuesday.

Zhou noted that China's strong first-quarter economic performance and proactive policies to boost domestic consumption have helped relevant US businesses achieve strong sales growth. And with the largest middle-income group globally, China's vast consumer market will continue to offer huge growth potential for US businesses, he said.

In stark contrast to strong growth and vast potential offered by China, growing concerns and uncertainty permeate the US business community due to the US government's various protectionist policies and crackdowns on normal China-US commercial ties, including imposing hefty additional tariffs.

Many US companies have expressed grave concerns over the adverse impact of the US tariffs in their latest earnings reports. For example, US automaker Ford said in its first-quarter earnings report that the US' tariffs could cost it about $1.5 billion in 2025.

"Given the volatile macroeconomic environment and evolving US tariff landscape, it is difficult to predict consumer spending and Mattel's US sales in the remainder of the year and holiday season," Barbie maker Mattel said in its latest quarterly report.

The US government's misuse of tariffs will likely cause serious long-term harm to the US economy - slowing growth, weakening the global competitiveness of US companies, increasing the burden on ordinary consumers, and destabilizing the job market, said Su Qingyi, an international trade and world politics expert with the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.

"Many US companies hold key positions in global supply chains. But they rely on imports, including raw materials and components, to maintain their production and operation cost advantages. And higher import costs from additional tariffs are squeezing profits, forcing companies to either raise prices or reduce expenses," Su told the Global Times.

Moreover, due to the mounting uncertainties and growing political and legal instability in the US, reasonable foreign investors will unlikely make rash investments in the US, according to Hu Jianguo, a professor at Tianjin-based Nankai University. "US investors may even consider investment in countries with more stable business environments," Hu told the Global Times.

Notably, US businesses have maintained positive sentiment toward the Chinese market. A report released in February by the American Chamber of Commerce in South China showed that looking ahead to 2025, 76 percent of foreign companies surveyed intend to reinvest in China, with a notable 74 percent of the US companies planning reinvestments, up 11 percentage points year-on-year, according to Xinhua.

Continued expansion

While some US politicians have been attempting to restrict US businesses' operations in China, many US companies continue to invest and expand in the Chinese market.

For example, US oil giant Exxon Mobil said in its first quarter earnings that the company recently commenced operations ahead of schedule and under budget at its China Chemical Complex. Once fully operational, the facility will produce up to 1.6 million tons of polyethylene and 850,000 tons of polypropylene annually, with over 75 percent of its capacity dedicated to high-value products, according to the company's website.

In February, US electric carmaker Tesla's new Megafactory in Shanghai launched production, marking a significant expansion of the company's presence in China. And then just over a month after the production launch, the Megafactory exported its first batch of Megapack energy-storage batteries, according to Xinhua.

Such expansion by US businesses in the Chinese market also fully reflects China's continuous opening-up, in sharp contrast to the US' protectionist approach, experts said.

"Amid rising unilateralism and protectionism in the US, China's firm commitment to expanding high-level opening-up will help strengthen cooperation with the rest of the world and contribute to global joint development and prosperity," Zhou said.

Going forward, despite some US politicians' so-called "decoupling" attempts, many US businesses, including Starbucks, have said they will continue to expand in the Chinese markets.

"In the future, we will focus on the long-term development of the Chinese market and continue to promote the healthy growth of key business data. We are full of confidence in the future development of Starbucks in China," Liu, co-chief executive of Starbucks China, said in the press release.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
by Andrea Scrima

Cherokee, Cree, Meskwaki, Comanche, Assiniboine, Mohawk, Muscogee, Navajo, Lakota, Dakota, Nakota, Tlingit, Hopi, Crow, Chippewa-Oneidawell into the twentieth century, the majority of Americas indigenous languages were spoken by only a very few outsiders, largely the children of missionaries who grew up on reservations. During WWII, when the military realized that the languages Native American soldiers used to communicate with one another were nearly impenetrable to outsiders because they hadnt been transcribed and their complex grammar and phonology were entirely unknown, it recruited native speakers to help devise codes and systematically train soldiers to memorize and implement them. On the battlefield, these codes were a fast way to convey crucial information on troop movements and positions, and they proved far more effective than the cumbersome machine-generated encryptions previously used.

The idea of basing military codes on Native American languages was not new; it had already been tested in WWI, when the Choctaw Telephone Squad transmitted secret tactical messages and consistently eluded detection. Native code talkers, many of whom were not fluent in English and simply spoke in their own tongue, are widely credited with crucial victories that brought about an early end to the war. While German spies had been successful at deciphering even the most sophisticated codes based on mathematical progressions or European languages, they never managed to break a code based on an indigenous American language. Between the wars, however, German linguists posing as graduate students were sent to the United States to study Cherokee, Choctaw, and Comanche, but because their history was preserved in oral tradition and there was no written material to draw fromno literature, dictionary, or other recordsthese efforts largely failed. Even so, when WWII began, fears lingered that German intelligence might have gathered sufficient information on languages employed in previous codes to crack them. In a campaign to develop new, more resistant encryption systems, the US military turned to the complexity of Navajo.

There is a terrible irony to this. Beginning in the late nineteenth century, Native American children were prohibited from speaking their own language at school, and when they were caught, they were punished by the missionaries and teachers trying to civilize them. US government campaigns to assimilate Native children by forcibly removing them from their families and assigning them to white homes were part of a larger plan to hollow out Indigenous culture from within and let it die what was considered to be an inevitable death. After centuries of near-extinction, its curious that the very unintelligibility of these languages to the uninitiated proved to be the essential factor both for American military victory and for the languages ultimate survival. During WWI, Native American soldiers viewed their patriotic contribution first and foremost as a means of protecting their own communities, which were threatened by legal and economic realities that generally left mainstream society indifferent. Native Americans were first guaranteed American citizenship in 1924; previously, they had been excluded based on a clause in the Fourteenth Amendment that exempted individuals considered to be under the jurisdiction of foreign sovereignties, including the tribal nations. In the Pacific theater of WWII, Native American soldiers were occasionally mistaken for the enemy and killed by US troops unfamiliar with Indigenous Americans and unable to distinguish them from the Japanese. For their protection, each Native code talker was assigned a bodyguardwhose orders, however, extended to shooting the code talker in the event he was captured.

Codes based on the Navajo and other languages are the only encryption systems an enemy was never able to crack; variations were devised for different situations and needs. The code referred to as Type One consists of Navajo terms known as substitution ciphers that stood for the 26 individual letters of the English alphabet and could be used to spell out words. Type Two consisted of words directly translated from English into Navajo. Soldiers recruited to develop the code compiled a dictionary of over four hundred words and phrases that were assigned to military terms many of which had no equivalent in the Navajo language, resulting in an almost somber beauty that drew on the natural world: fighter planes were referred to as hummingbirds, submarines as iron fish, bombs were known as eggs, amphibious vehicles were frogs. The largest and most complex code used in the war, the program was kept secret for decades in the event the codes would be needed again; former code talkers were prohibited from speaking about their wartime activities, even with close family, and for more than twenty years after the wars end, until the program was finally declassified, their contribution remained unacknowledged. Even so, recognition was slow in coming, and most former code talkers had already passed on by the time the first Congressional Medals were awarded in 2001.

In March of 2025, the Trump administration scrubbed all mention of the Native American code talkers from US military websites. There were at least fourteen Native American languages used as codes in the South Pacific during WWII, providing on-the-ground intelligence in all major military campaigns including the invasion of Iwo Jima and D-Day; crossing the English Channel with them were the shush, moasi, be, ma-e, klizzie, lin, gah, klesh, and gloe-ihthe Navajo words for bear, cat, deer, fox, goat, horse, rabbit, snake, and weasel that stood for the letters B, C, D, F, G, H, R, S, and W.

~

In the early spring of 2023, on my third visit to Taos Pueblo, the oldest continuously inhabited complex of Indigenous dwellings in the US, I waited in one of the tiny adobe shops selling jewelry and small musical instruments as Shiuan, a composer and fellow resident at the Helene Wurlitzer Foundation, tried out an assortment of small drums. The owner of the shop stood quietly behind a small counter with a cash register. As my eyes wandered around the room, they alighted on a newspaper article scotch-taped to the wall behind him, and I didnt realize it was in German until I was finished reading it. The article was from 1986; it reported on a troupe of young musicians from Taos Pueblo on tour in Germany. I peered more closely at the yellowed newsprint and thought I detected a resemblance; I pointed at the clipping and asked the shop owner if he was one of the young men in the picture. He nodded and gave me his card; his name was Sonny Spruce. If he was pleased, he was careful not to show it; he didnt say much about the tour, but when Shiuan finally decided on a drum and handed over his credit card, the man directed us to a neighboring shop run by another of the groups members.

This shop sold tea and cornbread, and as we sat in a corner sipping from our cups, we looked on as the owner moved up and down a stepladder, whitewashing an adobe chimney. Wed asked him about the performance group and hed nodded, but it wasnt until more than an hour later, when he was finished with his task, that he was ready to talk. He had, indeed, been part of the European tour, and it turned out that hed also had a connection to La MaMa theater in New York, which had showcased young playwrights and had hosted a Native American Theater Ensemble in the early 1970s, as our friend and fellow resident Tirtza, whod worked at La Mama in the 1980s, learned in surprise. One of the ensemble members children had recently founded a Hip-Hop group on the Pueblo, nourishing a steady vein of avant-garde tradition that had endured throughout the intervening decades and lending an almost intuitive logic to our presence there. The man cleared away his bucket and a few chairs, and without a word he began playing on a massive drum made from animal skin stretched over the trunk of a felled tree. As I listened to the man sing, I thought of my own absurd upbringing in a country that had almost completely extinguished a millennia-old native population and reduced its presence to a collection of rote tales and racist tropes. It was unclear if he was performing for Shiuan as a composer and fellow musician, for Tirtza as a filmmaker with an unexpected link to his performing past, or if he saw us as mere tourists. Watching the man beat his drum and chant, and ignorant of the cultural and religious context of his music, I thought of how we once, many years ago, made feather headdresses for Thanksgiving and played Cowboys and Indians; how we ran around the neighborhood hooting with relish and patting our mouths in a rendition of the war whoop, a watered-down version of the startling Cree war cry, which in reality calls for a series of rapid aspirated attacks and releases requiring a high degree of mastery and physical stamina to perform. Is every conquered minority eventually reduced to its own cliche, I wondered, and all at once I became painfully aware of the nearly insurmountable effort necessary to reclaim ones identity once its been stolen. I wanted to think of my presence there as something that went beyond voyeurism, but could think of nothing to support this sentiment. Its no wonder my emails to the Pueblo had gone unanswered, no wonder that the Tewa carefully guard their history and language, that there was so little interest in a writer in residence at a nearby cultural foundation that had been in operation for a mere seventy years, as opposed to the thousand-year existence of Taos Pueblo. History is a holy matter and music a higher authority that must be experienced in person. As Sonny once said, Theres something about that drumpeople hear it and it calls to them.

~

In the former GDR, an escapist fringe group known as the Hobby Indians emerged together with a homegrown Western movie genre that channeled East Germanys anti-capitalist and anti-imperialist ideology into films in which white settlers and the US military were the principal aggressors. The fate of the Indigenous Americans captured the imagination of people oppressed by communist rule; they saw themselves much like the Indians: noble-minded and terribly wronged, and yearning more than anything else for their freedom. In the other half of the divided country, West German guilt over the Holocaust was channeled into an equally anti-American narrative in which the allied victors had to answer to a far more reprehensible genocide than the mass murder Germany had perpetrated on Europes Jewish population. In this scenario, German immigrant settlers were cast as the better colonists: brave heroes fighting for the rights of the noble savages a la Karl Mays fictional characters Winnetou and his bosom buddy Old Shatterhand, who were based less on actual Native customs than on romantic fantasies of tribal identity. In Germany, the somewhat odd and incongruous identification with the Indigenous peoples of the Americas continues to this day, thirty-five years after Reunification, with live Cowboy and Indian reenactments performed in costume by people who carefully avoid contact with genuine Native Americans and their complex modern realitiesand frequent objections.

Criticism of American crimes perpetrated against the countrys Native population is necessary and justified and based on historical fact, but this was not the point of the GermanGerman embrace of Indigenous peoples. Indianthusiasm, as it was dubbed, grew out of a long history of German efforts to establish an original, untainted Germanic identity reaching back to the Cherusci chieftain Arminius, whod led a victorious campaign against the colonizing Romans; it had also found a deadly echo in the Nazi imaginary of Aryan tribal purity. Throughout the nineteenth century, live Native Americans were imported and exhibited in circuses and human zoos, while ethnographic exhibitions known as Volkerschauen fed popular projections and fueled the success of Buffalo Bills Wild West Shows and the adventure novels of Karl Maywhod incidentally only visited America once, venturing no farther west than Buffalo, after hed already written a significant number of books for his Winnetou series.

Its a particular form of displacement when tribal lands subjected to violent expropriation are reimagined as costume-drama movie sets and ancient traditions are grossly misrepresented and reduced to a collection of cultural cliches. Real Native Americans visiting Germany encounter a fantasy version of themselvespeople posing with braids and feather headdresses drumming in powwows before a backdrop of authentic-looking teepeesthat they often find deeply disturbing and offensive, and yet German hobbyists have nonetheless played an unlikely role in preserving cultural practices threatened with extinction, one of the terrible ironies inherent in cultural appropriation.

***

Further Reading:

Central Intelligence Agency, Navajo Code Talkers and the Unbreakable Code, Featured Story Archive, 2008, archived at: https://web.archive.org/web/20100327055830/https://www.cia.gov/news-information/featured-story-archive/2008-featured-story-archive/navajo-code-talkers/index.html

Juanisidro Concha, Dance Calling, Taos News, October 26, 2022. Archived at: https://archive.is/FhRUM

Washington Matthews, Navaho Legends: Memoirs of the American Folk-Lore Society, vol. V, G. E. Stechert & Co, New York, 1897

Sinclair McKay, The Hidden History of Code Breaking: The Secret World of Cyphers, Uncrackable Codes, and Elusive Encryptions. Pegasus Books, August 2023.

William C. Meadows, The Code Talkers Legacy: Native Languages Helped Turn the Tides in Both World Wars, fall 2020, vol. 21, no. 3, American Indian Magazine of Smithsonians National Museum of the American Indian. Archived at: https://www.americanindianmagazine.org/story/code-talkers-legacy-native-languages-helped-turn-tides-both-world-wars
China adds 75 international air cargo routes in first four months, nearly 90% to Asia, Europe

10:32, May 07, 2025 By Li Hang ( Global Times

The first cargo route between Urumqi in Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and Islamabad in Pakistan officially commences operation on March 4, 2025. (Photo/CMG)

China added 75 international air cargo routes in the first four months of 2025, with nearly 90 percent of the new routes connecting to destinations in Asia and Europe, China Media Group (CMG) reported Tuesday, citing the China Federation of Logistics and Purchasing (CFLP).

The growth reflects China's efforts to expand its global trade network despite rising tariffs imposed by the US, an expert told the Global Times.

A total of 17 new cargo routes were launched in April alone. As of April 30, the new routes had boosted weekly round-trip flights by more than 162. In 2024, China launched 168 new international cargo flight routes.

The routes are primarily focused on Asia and Europe, with 35 targeting Asian destinations and 31 connecting to Europe. North America saw six new routes, while South America and Africa added two and one, respectively.

An air cargo route between Ezhou in central China's Hubei Province and the southern Indian city of Bangalore was launched on March 6, Xinhua News Agency reported, citing SF Airlines. The Ezhou-Bangalore route will provide an annual air cargo transport capacity of more than 5,000 tons, the cargo carrier said.

"This shows that despite tariff pressure from the US, China remains committed to opening-up and free trade, and it is expanding trade ties with other regions, especially shifting to Asia and Europe," Wang Yanan, chief editor of Aerospace Knowledge magazine, told the Global Times on Tuesday.

In Wang's view, strengthening trade ties with countries outside the US is a natural response to US-imposed tariffs, and the trend is likely to become even more pronounced.

The cargo mainly consists of cross-border e-commerce goods, fresh produce, electronics and auto parts, according to the CMG report.

"It can be seen that China is working hard to enhance its integration with global markets and provide stability to international supply chains," Wang noted.

China's cross-border e-commerce rose by 10.8 percent in 2024, with their share of the country's total foreign trade increasing to 6 percent, according to the Ministry of Commerce.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
India and Pakistan exchanged heavy artillery along their contested frontier on Wednesday, after New Delhi launched deadly missile strikes on its arch-rival in the worst violence between the nuclear-armed neighbours in two decades.

Islamabad reported 26 civilians killed by the Indian strikes and firing along the border, while New Delhi said at least eight were killed by Pakistani shelling.

India said it carried out "precision strikes at terrorist camps" at nine sites in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and in Punjab state, days after it blamed Islamabad for backing a deadly attack on the Indian-run side of the disputed region.

The Indian army said "justice is served", with New Delhi adding that its actions "have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature".

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif accused Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi of launching the strikes to "shore up" his domestic popularity, but said that Islamabad had struck back.

"The retaliation has already started", Asif told AFP. "We won't take long to settle the score."

Asif claimed five "enemy aircraft" were downed by Pakistan, without giving further details and after backtracking on an earlier statement that Indian soldiers had been captured.

An Indian senior security source, who asked not to be named, meanwhile said three Indian fighter jets crashed on Wednesday on home territory without giving a cause.

It was not immediately clear what happened to the pilots.

Wreckage of an Indian fighter jet was seen by an AFP photographer at Wuyan -- on the Indian controlled side of Kashmir.

Islamabad said a three-year-old child was among eight civilians killed in the strikes.

In Muzaffarabad, the main city of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, troops cordoned off streets around a mosque Islamabad said was hit, with marks of explosions also visible on the walls of several homes.

Shortly after, India's army accused Pakistan of "indiscriminate" firing across the Line of Control (LoC), the de facto border in Kashmir, with bursts of flame as shells landed, AFP reporters saw.

"We woke up as we heard the sound of firing", Farooq, a man in the Indian town of Poonch, told the Press Trust of India news agency from his hospital bed, his head wrapped in a bandage. "I saw shelling raining down... two persons were wounded".

At least eight Indians were killed and 29 others wounded in the town, local revenue officer Azhar Majid told AFP from the town's hospital.

India had been widely expected to respond militarily to the April 22 attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir by gunmen it said were from Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba, a UN-designated terrorist organisation.

The assault in the tourist hotspot of Pahalgam left 26 people dead, mainly Hindu men.

No group has claimed responsibility but New Delhi has blamed Islamabad for backing the attack, sparking a series of heated threats and diplomatic tit-for-tat measures.

Pakistan rejects the accusations and called for independent probe.

The two sides have exchanged nightly gunfire since April 24 along the LoC, according to the Indian army. Pakistan also said it has held two missile tests.

The violence is a dangerous escalation between the South Asian neighbours, who have fought multiple wars since they were carved out of the sub-continent at the end of British rule in 1947.

The assaults already exceed India's strikes in 2019, when New Delhi said it had hit "several militants" after a suicide bomber attacked an Indian security force convoy, killing 40.

"India's strike on Pakistan is of much greater scale than the one in 2019... Pakistan's response... has also exceeded the scale of 2019", US-based analyst Michael Kugelman said.

Diplomats have piled pressure on leaders to step back from the brink of war.

"The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan," the spokesman for UN chief Antonio Guterres, Stephane Dujarric, said in a statement.

President Donald Trump told reporters in Washington he hoped that the fighting "ends very quickly".

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has spoken to top security officials in both New Delhi and Islamabad since the strikes and said he was monitoring the situation "closely".

India's army said it had "demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution", adding that "no Pakistani military facilities have been targeted".

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, calling the Indian attack "unprovoked" and "cowardly", said the "heinous act of aggression will not go unpunished."

Rebels in Indian-administered Kashmir have waged an insurgency since 1989, seeking independence or a merger with Pakistan.

India regularly blames its neighbour for backing armed groups fighting its forces in Kashmir, a charge that Islamabad denies.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected in New Delhi on Wednesday, two days after a visit to Islamabad, as Tehran seeks to mediate.

India was also set to hold several civil defence drills Wednesday, while schools in Pakistan Punjab and Kashmir were closed, local government officials said.

The strikes came just hours after Modi said that water flowing across India's borders would be stopped. Pakistan had warned that tampering with the rivers that flow from India into its territory would be an "act of war".
In the early hours of Wednesday, India launched airstrikes on Pakistan in the dead of the night, which has escalated tension between the two nations.

According to the Pakistan military, at least 26 civilians were killed in the attack by the neighbouring country. On Wednesday, Reuters reported that the Pakistani army's shelling across the border in Indian administered Kashmir has killed 10 civilians and wounded 48.

The escalation has not only reignited the longstanding conflict over Kashmir but also triggered a series of diplomatic, military, and even water-related threats that have drawn international concern.

Reuters reports that Pakistan's foreign ministry said they have summoned India's Charge d'Affaires. 'It was conveyed that India's blatant act of aggression constitutes a clear violation of Pakistan's sovereignty. Such actions are in contravention of the UN Charter, international law, and established norms governing inter-state relations,' the Ministry said in a statement.

What is Operation Sindoor?

Under the name 'Operation Sindoor' the Indian government claims the strikes were aimed at militant infrastructure across the border in response to a recent deadly attack in Kashmir, while Pakistan has labelled them a 'cowardly act of war.'

As per India's Col. Sofiya Qureshi, the first woman officer to command an Indian Army contingent at a multi-national military exercise, the operation lasted 25 minutes from 1.05 a.m. to 1.30 a.m. local time.

The operation name holds a deep meaning and significance for India, and it was deliberately chosen by the country for its military operation. 'Sindoor' is often referred to as the red vermilion, or powder, many Hindu married women wear as a symbol of their marriage, and tragically, seven Indian women were widowed during April's attack on civilians in Indian-administered Kashmir.

What Triggered the Strikes?

The airstrikes were followed by one of the deadliest attacks in Kashmir in recent years. The April 22 incident in the tourist town of Pahalgam, a resort town in Indian-administered Kashmir, where 26 tourists were killed. The nation and its citizens were left shocked by the attack, which sparked accusations from Indian officials pointing to Pakistan-backed militants. Islamabad has firmly denied any role.

Since the attack, the Line of Control (LoC)the de facto border in Kashmirhas seen nightly gunfire exchanged between Indian and Pakistani forces, according to the Indian army.

According to reports, India says the strikes were aimed at neutralising sites used to 'plan and direct' terrorist operations. 'Justice is served,' the Indian army said in a brief social media statement after the operation. India's External Affairs Minister has also made his his first public comments on the attack. 'The world must show zero tolerance for terrorism,' Jaishankar said in a post on his official X account.

Where India Struck  and What Happened

Reports coming from India suggest that the nation's Defence Ministry has confirmed that it had hit nine sites across three regions: Muzaffarabad and Kotli in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, and Bahawalpur in Pakistan's Punjab province.

Pakistan's military spokesperson, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, stated that at least three people, including a child, had been killed and 12 others injured in the missile strikes. One strike reportedly hit near a mosque in Ahmedpur East, where rescue teams are trying to free a trapped family.

Additionally, a blast was also heard early Wednesday in Srinagar, the largest city in Indian-administered Kashmir, according to CNN. The cause remains unconfirmed. On Wednesday, Indian authorities ordered an evacuation of citizens to safety as several areas in Kashmir had been deemed dangerous.

Civilian infrastructure has also been impacted, reportedly. Pakistan International Airlines grounded all domestic and international flights indefinitely, and airlines such as Air France and Lufthansa have begun rerouting to avoid Pakistani airspace.

Pakistan's Reaction: Emergency and Retaliation

According to reports, Pakistan has declared a state of emergency in Punjab province under its administration, with hospitals and emergency services placed on high alert. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attacks, warning that Pakistan 'fully reserves the right to respond forcefully' and vowing a 'robust response.'

'All of our air force jets are airborne,' said General Chaudhry, adding, 'This cowardly and shameful attack was carried out from within India's airspace. Let me say it unequivocally: Pakistan will respond to this at a time and place of its own choosing.'

While speaking to TRT World, Pakistani Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar warns that 'the whole nation is united against Indian aggression.' He said, 'We are a peaceful people, but when it comes to challenging us, the whole nation will respond and the whole nation is united against Indian aggression, and standing behind the armed forces of Pakistan.'

A meeting of the National Security Committee is reportedly scheduled to take place in Islamabad on Wednesday morning to discuss the situation.

According to CNN, Pakistan's military claims it has shot down two Indian Air Force aircraft, though this has not been independently verified. 'We can confirm that two Indian Air Force aircraft have already been shot down,' said Lt. Gen. Chaudhry. The Indian Ministry of Defence has yet to confirm.

Water Tensions Add to the Crisis

Soon after the Pahalgam attack, India announced that it would suspend its participation in the Indus Waters Treaty, a longstanding agreement governing water-sharing between the two nations. Speaking in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, 'India's water used to go outside, now it will flow for India... and be utilised for India's interests.'

Pakistan, which relies heavily on these waters for agriculture and consumption, has warned that tampering with its rivers would be considered another 'act of war.'

Global Reactions and Mediation Offers

According to US Congressman Shri Thanedar, the attackers were focused on killing Hindus, describing the violence as 'barbaric.' On his X (formerly twitter) he wrote, 'India has the right to defend itself... and retaliate.' Meanwhile, on Tuesday, the US issued a formal call for restraint. 'We continue to urge Pakistan and India to work towards a responsible resolution,' said State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce.

Speaking to reporters in the White House, US President Donald Trump said, 'It's a shame... I hope it ends very quickly,' noting the historical tensions between the two sides. The UK has also reacted to the airstrikes, with Labour MP Stella Creasy describing the developments as 'deeply concerning.'

Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected in New Delhi on Wednesday, following talks in Islamabad earlier this week. Tehran has offered to mediate and is the first senior foreign diplomat to visit both countries since the Pahalgam attack.

China, on the other hand, is expressing regret over the strike. 'India and Pakistan are neighbours who cannot be moved away, and both are also China's neighbours. China opposes all forms of terrorism,' a spokesperson for China's Foreign Ministry said. Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged the two nations to 'avoid a military confrontation that could easily spin out of control.'

According to reports, India has launched a diplomatic outreach effort to explain the rationale behind its actions. Senior Indian officials have briefed their counterparts in the US, UK, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Russia, according to government sources.

Shortly after the operation, India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval spoke with the US NSA and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The Indian Embassy in Washington issued a statement saying, 'India's actions were focused and responsible, they were designed to avoid escalation while neutralising clear threats.'

With both nations hardening their positions and making clear their red linesmilitary, diplomatic, and hydrologicalthe Kashmir region is facing its most testing moment in years. Meanwhile, all eyes remain on Pakistan's next moves as it will eventually decide whether Operation Sindoor will be seen as a decisive counterterrorism strike or the beginning of a broader escalation.

Originally published on IBTimes UK
The UN's human rights chief told AFP Wednesday that Israel's plan for an expanded offensive in the Gaza Strip represented "a very dangerous moment" for civilians there.

"What we see is only more destruction, more hatred, more dehumanisation," said Volker Turk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, during a visit to Copenhagen for a UN meeting.

"It's a very dangerous moment for civilians," he added, criticising the Israeli plan for an expanded offensive in the Gaza Strip.

On Monday, Israel announced an expanded military campaign, which an Israeli official said would entail the "conquest" of the Palestinian territory.

On Tuesday, Israel's Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said this meant that the Gaza Strip would be "entirely destroyed".

Several countries and world leaders have already condemned the plan, and Turk said the parties needed to "come to a place of reason and peace, and not just of continuous fighting and war".

The war needed to end, he said, there needed to be a ceasefire, a political solution with all the hostages "released unconditionally and immediately".

The Palestinian Islamist organisation Hamas has said that ceasefire talks are pointless at this stage.

The blockade imposed by Israel on the Gaza Strip "needs to be lifted immediately", said Turk.

"Humanitarian assistance needs to come in. That's an obligation, that's an obligation under international law," he added.

Turk argued that the current situation worldwide underlined the need to reaffirm the principles of international cooperation. The UN Security Council "is not functioning well" to address "the big crisis of our time", he added.

"With what is happening at the moment, in this current geopolitical moment, it is all the more important to come back to the principles, the values, to the norms, to the institutions, because they have served humanity well for 80 years," said Turk.

"And if we lose them, we lose a lot of what has been actually possible by way of progress, human progress, development, and also when it comes to humanitarian action and human rights," he added.

He hoped "that the world comes together again, shows the political leadership... including the most powerful countries around the world, that they act in favour of peace and not in favour of war".
Black smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel's chimney on Wednesday evening, signaling that the first vote of the highly anticipated papal conclave ended without consensus. The 133 cardinal electors failed to choose a new pope on day one, prolonging the wait for a successor to Pope Francis, who passed away last month after a 12-year papacy.

The cardinals will resume voting Thursday with no clear frontrunner to emerge ahead of the conclave. The process, steeped in secrecy and tradition, will continue until one candidate secures a two-thirds majority.

Following the inconclusive vote, the cardinals returned to their temporary home at the Santa Marta residence, where they remain sequestered without access to phones or electronic devices. This strict isolation ensures the integrity of the process and guards against outside influence or surveillance. Breaching the oath of secrecy results in automatic excommunication.

As dusk settled over St. Peter's Square, tens of thousands of people watched the chimney for the traditional smoke signal. Despite widespread expectations that no decision would be reached on the first day, the moment still drew pilgrims and spectators from around the world.

"We tried to manifest it, but we kind of knew it wouldn't be tonight," said Carla Peat, 19, who traveled from Scotland with friends. She noted that even their local priest chose dinner over the vigil but added they'd all return to the square Thursday.

Historically, modern conclaves tend to produce a new pope quicklyBenedict XVI and Francis were both elected on the second day, while John Paul II emerged on the third. Over the next three days, the cardinals will vote up to four times dailytwice in the morning and twice in the afternoon. If no pope is elected by Sunday, the process pauses for a day of prayer and informal discussions.

This conclave is shaping up as a decisive moment for the future direction of the Catholic Church. A divide has formed between those seeking to preserve the reforms and inclusive vision of Pope Francis and others advocating for a return to a more traditional papacy. These factions are informally grouped around ideas of "unity," favoring stability, and "diversity," aligned more with Francis' legacy.

Looming over the conclave are unresolved crises, particularly the clergy sexual abuse scandals that continue to challenge the Church's moral authority and call for reform. While there is no official candidate list, names in circulation include Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, American Cardinal Robert Prevost, and Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the former Vatican Secretary of State.

Adding to the unpredictability is the composition of the College of Cardinals itself. Pope Francis appointed over 80% of the electors, intentionally diversifying the body to better reflect the global Church. However, many of these newer cardinals have not worked closely with one another and reportedly wore name tags during pre-conclave meetings.

The world's 1.4 billion Catholics now wait in anticipation for the white smoke that will signal the election of the Church's 267th pontiff.
Melia Hotels International continues to expand its Mediterranean portfolio with the addition of a new hotel in one of Italy's most captivating coastal destinations. The company has announced the signing of the Hotel Corte Rosada, Affiliated by Melia, a 4-star beachfront retreat set to open in summer 2025 in Alghero, on the island of Sardinia, located just 15 minutes from Alghero - Riviera del Corallo Airport. This strategic opening reinforces the Group's ambition to offer authentic leisure experiences in unique locations, while expanding its presence in Italyfrom 8 operating hotels to a projected 15 properties by 2027.

Nestled along the pristine coast of Alghero, within the protected Porto Conte Regional Natural Park, Hotel Corte Rosada will offer guests an exceptional setting where nature, wellness, and the Mediterranean lifestyle converge. The hotel enjoys direct access to sandy beach and is surrounded by crystal-clearwater, lush pine forests, and dramatic cliffs, and scenic forest trails - making it ideal for both relaxation and outdoor exploration. The hotel will feature 152 rooms, a wellness centre, and a diverse range of dining options including a restaurant, bar, and breakfast venueall designed to deliver a relaxed and immersive island experience.

Alghero, an enclave of Catalan origin and language, with a valuable historic center and ancient fortifications, located on Sardinia's northwestern coast, is a destination known for its natural beauty and cultural charm. With a vibrant old town and access to iconic sites such as Capo Caccia, Neptune's Grotto, Punta Giglio, and Monte Doglia, as well as its proximity to nature reserves, vineyards, and diving spots, it offers the perfect balance of sea, heritage, and outdoor adventure for modern travellers.

The Hotel Corte Rosada marks the second property by Melia on the islandjoining Bellevue Sardinia, Affiliated by Melia, which opened in 2024and becomes the fifteenth hotel in the company's growing Italian portfolio. In addition to Alghero, Melia is set to debut new properties in Venice and Milan later in 2025, reinforcing its commitment to key cultural and tourism hubs across the country.

Hotel website
Accor proudly announces the appointment of Kent Zhu as CEO of Accor Greater China, effective May 1, 2025. A distinguished leader in the global hospitality industry, Kent is well-known for his keen marketing acumen and his transformative leadership style. Based in Shanghai, Kent is responsible for Accor's growth strategy in Greater China, as well as managing relations with hotel owners, and the development and progress of Accor's strategic partnerships. Kent oversees both the Luxury & Lifestyle (L&L) brands division and the Premium, Midscale & Economy (PM&E) brands division across the Greater China region.

Kent comes to Accor having earned a full spectrum of experience and credentials in the hospitality sector, including commercial enterprises, brand development, marketing, and operations. He has worked in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Beijing, gathering experience in a variety of Chinese markets and cultures, positioning him perfectly to lead Accor's ambitious growth strategy across the domestic market.

Prior to joining Accor, Kent was President of Genting Cruise Lines, where he successfully guided the company to become a leading player in the Asia-Pacific cruise market. Previously, Kent was at Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, where he delivered outstanding business performance and developed a deep understanding of hotel operations and market dynamics. Kent rose through the ranks, achieving such roles as Vice President, Operations for China, and Global Chief Marketing Officer. Following his tenure at Shangri-La, Kent joined Wanda Hotels & Resorts as Executive Vice President, where he led the company to expand its presence and elevate its brand influence.

Accor's Greater China region has more than 750 hotels and resorts with strong development momentum and a workforce of over 25,000 people. Accor is focused on building a workplace culture that champions diversity, inclusion, and career advancement, while pioneering the art of responsible hospitality. Kent's appointment marks a new chapter for Accor in Greater China, and industry observers eagerly anticipate the advancements that will unfold under his leadership.
New Zealand  Leading New Zealand hotel group NZ Hotel Holdings (NZHH) is divesting its nationwide portfolio of hotel assets.

The opportunity is the largest hotel portfolio ever brought to market in New Zealand, presenting a once in-a-generation opportunity for investors to deploy capital into high-quality assets across a diversity of market segments.

CBREs Michael Simpson, Peter Hamilton and Nick Hill are managing the sale via an International Expressions of Interest Campaign. The sale is aligned with the investors strategy to develop high quality assets and to re-invest the proceeds of those developments into further growth opportunities.

NZ Hotel Holdings is a partnership between NZ Super Fund, Russell Property Group and the Lockwood Property Group, formed in 2019 to develop New Zealand hotel assets to support domestic and international tourism in New Zealand.

The unparalleled combination of experience of the partners has meant that complexities of acquiring, structuring, seismically strengthening and delivering a unique portfolio of world-class investment grade hotels has been mitigated for the new owner.

Its portfolio comprises market-leading Auckland hotels Four Points by Sheraton, QT Auckland, and Adina Apartment Hotel Britomart, as well as Rydges Rotorua and Rydges Wellington, Sofitel Queenstown Hotel and Spa, and BreakFree on Cashel in Christchurch.

The New Zealand Government has demonstrated robust support for the growth of tourism, which was formerly the nations largest export earner. New international tourism campaigns targeting high population and high-value markets, such as India, China, and the USA, along with increased sector funding, are anticipated to enhance international visitation and drive hotel demand.

With tourism now back on a growth curve, strong market fundamentals with increased international interest, the opportunity is here to pass on the portfolio to an investor seeking scale, geographic diversity and holistic coverage of New Zealands key tourism markets. NZHH Chief Executive Marcus Reinders

Recent benchmarks such as the record-setting sale of the InterContinental Auckland Hotel supports this view.

This is the largest and most comprehensive portfolio of investment grade hotels ever brought to market in New Zealand. New Zealand is an aspirational travel destination, world-renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. The portfolio offers expansive coverage of all of New Zealands major markets, with the portfolio hotels appealing to business and leisure travelers across all market segments. Michael Simpson, Managing Director of CBRE Hotels Pacific

The International Expressions of Interest Campaign closes on Thursday 26th June 2025 at 4pm NZST.

About CBRE Group, Inc.

CBRE Group, Inc. (NYSE:CBRE), a Fortune 500 and S&P 500 company headquartered in Dallas, is the world's largest commercial real estate services and investment firm (based on 2023 revenue). The company has more than 130,000 employees (including Turner & Townsend employees) serving clients in more than 100 countries. CBRE serves a diverse range of clients with an integrated suite of services, including facilities, transaction and project management; property management; investment management; appraisal and valuation; property leasing; strategic consulting; property sales; mortgage services and development services. Please visit our website at www.cbre.com.

Katherine Yu

Senior Manager, External Communications, Asia

+852 2820 1512

CBRE Hotels
Last week, Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH), concluded its 69th Annual Convention. Over the course of three days, Choice Hotels showcased how its growth, strategic investments, and innovation-first mindset continue to power the future of franchise ownership by helping to drive revenue, reduce costs, and provide state-of-the-art tools for its hotel owners. During the convention, the company announced the piloting of signature breakfast items for its Comfort and Country Inn & Suites brands.

Choice also celebrated reaching the Ascend Collection's milestone of over 400 open properties worldwide by unveiling a new logo that honors its pioneering legacy as the first soft brand and its commitment to unique, personalized guest experiences.

Hotel owners also learned about Choice Hotels' ambitious ongoing investments to develop and implement cutting-edge capabilities. These initiatives include empowering franchisees to manage rates more flexibly, driving occupancy from small-to-mid-sized companies through a self-service travel management platform, enhancing AI-ready digital marketing to attract and retain guests, and introducing an AI-infused group travel system to optimize opportunities and respond to requests for proposals.

The driving force of Choice Hotels' growth  what is truly Powering the Future  is a relentless focus on enhancing hotel performance by helping them drive revenue up, operating costs down and making running hotels easier through our best-in-class technology tools and systems. President and CEO Patrick Pacious

In addition to talking about the key areas Choice Hotels is investing in the growth and performance of hotels across its system, the franchisor also awarded and celebrated top-performing hotels.

Premier Award Winners

The Premier Legacy Award recognizes phenomenal and longstanding Choice hotel owners who have built a true legacy with the company. The Premier Developer Award goes to Choice hotel owners who have demonstrated an incredible commitment to development with Choice Hotels.

Gary and David Burton of the Burton Hotel Group (Premier Legacy Award) : Based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Gary and his son David opened their first hotel in 2007 and have since opened a half-dozen properties with Choice, including the Platinum Award-winning Sleep Inn & Suites in South Tyler, Texas. David served as Chair of the Choice Hotels Owners Council (CHOC) from 2022 to 2023.

: Based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Gary and his son David opened their first hotel in 2007 and have since opened a half-dozen properties with Choice, including the Platinum Award-winning Sleep Inn & Suites in South Tyler, Texas. David served as Chair of the Choice Hotels Owners Council (CHOC) from 2022 to 2023. Jay Patel, Devesh Patel, Vince Patel and Nash Desai of Athena Hospitality Group (Premier Developer Award): Based in Florence, Kentucky, Athena Hospitality Group has developed Choice hotels across core, extended stay and upscale brands, including the Cambria at Nashville Airport  the only Cambria with a swimming pool shaped like a guitar. Athena was recently awarded agreements for nine WoodSpring Suites, including one that's now under construction in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Lifetime Achievement Award

Toshio Muraki, Founder, Choice Hotels Japan: Last year, the Choice Hotels International family lost an esteemed member, the founder of Choice Hotels Japan and Greens Company Limited, Toshio Muraki. Over more than half a century in hospitality  starting with the opening of the Shin Yokkaichi Hotel in 1957  Muraki built an incredible legacy of growth and partnership. In 2024, Choice Hotels Japan grew to nearly 100 hotels, including the addition of 22 Comfort properties. In recognition of his achievements and collaboration, Choice bestowed Muraki with a Lifetime Achievement Award, which his son and current President and Director of Choice Hotels Japan, Takeya Muraki, accepted on his behalf.

Best of Choice Winners

Every year, the best U.S. hotel from each brand and the best international properties are selected for Best of Choice Awards. Demonstrating a commitment to superior guest service and operational excellence, these hotels represent the very best Choice Hotels has to offer from across its wide-ranging portfolio of brands.

Subscribe to receive Choice Hotels news updates via email here.

About Choice Hotels

Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) is one of the largest lodging franchisors in the world. The one to watch in upscale and a leader in midscale and extended stay, Choice has nearly 7,500 hotels, representing more than 630,000 rooms, in 45 countries and territories. A diverse portfolio of 22 brands that range from full-service upper upscale properties to midscale, extended stay and economy enables Choice to meet travelers' needs in more places and for more occasions while driving more value for franchise owners and shareholders. The award-winning Choice Privileges rewards program and co-brand credit card options provide members with a fast and easy way to earn reward nights and personalized perks. For more information, visit www.choicehotels.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This communication includes "forward-looking statements" about future events, including anticipated development and hotel openings. Such statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including construction delays, availability and cost of financing and the other "Risk Factors" described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, any of which could cause actual results to be materially different from our expectations.

Addendum

This is not an offering. No offer or sale of a franchise will be made except by a Franchise Disclosure Document first filed and registered with applicable state authorities. A copy of the Franchise Disclosure Document can be obtained through contacting Choice Hotels International at 915 Meeting Street, Suite 600, North Bethesda, Maryland 20852 or by email at: [email protected].

 2024 Choice Hotels International, Inc. All Rights Reserved

SOURCE Choice Hotels International, Inc.
Ennismore, the fastest-growing lifestyle and leisure hospitality company, announces a new branded residential concept for cultural-defining brand, Our Habitas, accelerating the groups global growth in the segment. As with its hotels, Ennismore brings its creative design expertise and ability to create a genuine sense of community through unique programming, carefully curated F&B elements, and exceptional services.

With over 45 residential projects launched and under development across 20 countries, including the US, Spain, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and UAE, Ennismores expansion in the branded residence market underscores its commitment to redefining lifestyle, bringing its globally renowned brands, including Mondrian, Hyde, Rixos and now Our Habitas, to homeownership. Ennismore has seen significant growth in its branded residences, having recently signed and launched flagship standalone properties, including 25hours Heimat Dubai, SLS Madrid Infantas Residences, Rixos Financial Center Road Dubai Residences, Rixos Tersane Istanbul Residences, Hyde Residences Dubai Hills and SLS Residences at Palm Jumeirah.

Our Habitas residences will be designed for those seeking meaningful connections, holistic well-being, and curated experiences, transforming traditional living into an inspired lifestyle. Drawing on the brands signature ethos, each space will be thoughtfully crafted with warm, natural materials and artisanal craftsmanship, blending contemporary luxury with soulful design to create a vibrant living environment that epitomises effortless luxury. Our Habitas residences will extend an invitation to a lifestyle where luxury and authenticity coexist, with spaces that flow effortlessly between indoor and outdoor.

Each residential project will be a true sanctuary - a distinctive, thoughtfully curated space that reflects the rich character and vibrant diversity of its surroundings. More than simply places to live, Our Habitas residences will foster a sense of belonging, creating a dynamic community where kindred spirits come together to share inspiration, forge meaningful connections, and embrace a life of purpose and possibility.

We have always been about creating spaces where people come together in meaningful ways, and Our Habitas branded residences are a natural extension of that vision. With Ennismores proven expertise in curating lifestyle hospitality experiences and innovative approach to branded residences, we are confident that Our Habitas will set a new benchmark in the market, offering something truly unique and transformative.

Ennismores growth in the branded residential market over the last couple of years has shown a genuine desire for beautifully designed spaces and exceptional programming, which are at the core of our lifestyle brands. With Our Habitas, we look forward to introducing a new type of luxury lifestyle to the market, centred around wellness and community, where our residents can create meaningful connections with each other or their surroundings. We are exploring projects located beside the hotel concept and standalone in communities. Louis Abi Abboud, Regional Head of Lifestyle Collective MEAIT at Ennismore

The branded residential market is one of the fastest-growing sectors in real estate, and lifestyle is the fastest-growing category in hospitality. According to Savills, the branded residential market has grown by 160% in the last decade and is set for double growth by 2030. Lifestyle-branded residences appeal to a new generation of homeowners seeking design-led brands with unique personalities that celebrate modernity, creativity, compelling food and drink offerings, and extraordinary experiences, combined with providing top residential management services delivered with hospitality expertise.

ABOUT ENNISMORE

Ennismore is a creative hospitality company with a global collective of entrepreneurial and founder-built brands with purpose at their heart. It curates and manages unique properties and experiences in some of the most exciting destinations worldwide.

Founded in 2011 by entrepreneur Sharan Pasricha, Ennismore and Accor entered a joint venture in 2021 to create a new autonomous entity, with Accor holding a majority shareholding. Creating the world's fastest-growing lifestyle hospitality company, it brings together Ennismore's know-how in building brands with creative storytelling, design, and authentic experiences, with Accor's wealth of knowledge in delivering scale, network growth and distribution.

Under Sharan Pasricha, Founder & Co-CEO, and Gaurav Bhushan, Co-CEO, Ennismore comprises 14 brands - with over 100 operating properties and a further 140+ in the pipeline - and a collection of over 190 culturally relevant and diverse restaurants and nightlife destinations.

Ennismore puts innovation at the center of everything it does, with four dedicated in-house specialist studios, which obsess every guest touchpoint, including Carte Blanched  a fully integrated F&B concept platform; a creative studio of interior and graphic designers; a digital product and tech innovation lab, and a partnerships and collaborations division.

Ennismore has been included in Fast Company's World's Most Innovative Companies lists in 2020 and 2021; ranked#29 in FT1000: Europe's Fastest-Growing Companies; and is part of FT Future 100 - the UK's fastest-growing businesses that are shaping the future of their sector.

The Ennismore brands: 21c Museum Hotel, 25hours Hotels, Delano, Gleneagles, Hyde, JO&JOE, Mama Shelter, Mondrian, Morgans Originals, SLS, SO/, The Hoxton, TRIBE and Working From.

Marcos Eleftheriou

VP of Corporate Communications, Ennismore

Ennismore
Exactly one week ago, we had the pleasure of attending Mews Unfold 2025 in Amsterdam. Now in its sixth edition, Unfold has grown into one of the most anticipated hospitality events in Europe, drawing over 700 hoteliers, tech partners, and innovators from around the world. What began in a single room just a few years ago has evolved into a multi-floor experience, full of energy, insight, and meaningful connection.

This years event was a powerful reminder of what hospitality is really about: not just technology, but people. From organizers to speakers, the Mews team curated a day that balanced operational insights with heartfelt conversations and hands-on learning. It didn't feel like a typical tech conference, it felt like a gathering of a community that genuinely cares about the future of guest experience.

The opening keynote by Mews Founder Richard Valtr and CEO Matt Welle set an open and honest tone for the day: in a world marked by global conflict, economic uncertainty, and shifting guest behaviors, they encouraged the audience to stop asking why? and start focusing on how to respond. Their message was clear: hospitality must be agile, blending human instinct with data-driven decisions. Dont wait for the impact. Be it, said Richard.

Throughout the day, attendees explored the connection between technology and human service. Whether in the thoughtful one-on-one conversation with Monica Galetti, the dynamic panels on automation and personalization, or the breakout sessions on revenue management and tech integration, one message kept coming through: hospitality is, and will always be, about connection.

Source: Hospitality Net

Unfold was not only about the sessions; the Mews Product and Partner Zones offered an additional layer to the experience. These spaces provided a relaxed setting for networking and connecting with clients, industry suppliers, and speakers in between sessions and during breaks.

As the official program came to a close, the Mews Unfold Awards offered well-deserved recognition to those pushing boundaries, celebrating excellence in guest experience, innovation, sustainability, and leadership. It was a great ending to a day filled with learning and new ideas.

Source: Hospitality Net

The day ended with a relaxed gathering, with good food, drinks, and a friendly atmosphere. People had the chance to talk more, meet new contacts, and continue the conversations started earlier. It was a natural and pleasant end to a well-organised event.

Unfold 2025 reminded us why we do what we do. Technology plays a crucial role, but the magic lies in the moments we create for others. Hats off to the Mews team for delivering a day full of energy, warmth, and vision. We are already looking forward to Unfold Volume 07, because if this year showed anything, theres still so much more ahead.

This was just the beginning. Over the coming days, we will be sharing more in-depth articles from Unfold 2025, exploring some of the key sessions, expert insights, and ideas shaping the future of hospitality.
Wait!

Before you go

Please sign up for our Evening Digest and Breaking Newsletters

Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request.

* I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.
About This Property Charming riverfront home in historic Chester, close to all main attractions in Berkshire County and the college towns of Amherst and Northampton. The house has been lovingly maintained as a short-term rental since 2018, with excellent occupancy rates for visitors looking for a quiet getaway with a small town atmosphere while also central to all of Western Massachusetts. Single floor living, hardwood floors, updated kitchen and bath, back porch/mudroom and stunning deck with hot tub situated high above the serene Westfield River. This house is sold fully and tastefully furnished for immediate occupancy as your main home, vacation hideaway, or as a top-rated investment opportunity. Walking distance to Chester's quaint Main Street and nearby Becket and Chester State Forest trails.



Land Details Community Details Acres Apx: 0.34

Parking Type: Garaged & Off-Street

Region: Outside Berkshire Other MA

Elem School: Chester Elementary

Middle School: Gateway

High School: Gateway Regional

Exterior Details Interior Details Color: Yellow

Style: Ranch

Construction: Wood Frame

Exterior: Wood

Water: Public

Sewer: Private

Underground Oil Tank: Unk

Views: Scenic,Water

Waterfront: River View,Close to Water,River,River Access

Garage: Detached

Total Rooms: 5

Total Full Baths: 1

Fuel: Oil

Hot Water: Oil

Electric: 200 Amp

Floor: Wood,Laminate

Lead Paint: Unk

Heat/Cool: Furnace,Air Exchange System,Wood Stove,Hot Water

Insulation: Unknown

Appliances Incl: Dishwasher,Washer,Refrigerator,Range,Microwave,Dryer

Accessibility: 1st Fl Bdrm,1st Flr Full Bath



Search More Properties With these Features Deck Hot Tub Outdoor Trash Private Cable Available Sun Room
North Adams Letter Carrier Food Drive Scheduled for May 10

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. The annual Letter Carrier's Food Drive is scheduled for Saturday, May 10. Residents are asked to leave bags of non-perishable food items for their mail carriers.

This year, the Friendship Center will collaborate with letter carriers to collect donations in North Adams, Clarksburg, and Florida Mountain.

The sorting location for the collected items will be in the space adjacent to Planet Fitness in the Steeple City Plaza. New volunteers are welcome to assist.

The Al Nelson Friendship Center Food Pantry, located at 45 Eagle Street, serves households in North Adams, Clarksburg, and Florida Mountain. The pantry is open every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Lenox Memorial Middle School to Present 'The Addams Family'

LENOX, Mass. The Lenox Memorial Middle School Theater Department will present "The Addams Family" at the Duffin Theater, located at 197 East St, Lenox, on Thursday, May 8, and Friday, May 9, at 7 p.m.

The musical comedy centers on Wednesday Addams, the daughter of Gomez and Morticia, who has fallen in love with a young man from a conventional family. Wednesday confides in her father, Gomez, and asks him to keep their relationship a secret from her mother. The situation escalates when the family hosts a dinner for Wednesdays boyfriend and his parents.

Tickets are available at the Duffin Theater 30 minutes before each performance. A suggested donation of $5 is requested for students and seniors, and $10 for adults.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Pakistan accused India of igniting an inferno over Kashmir and vowed to retaliate after missile attacks by the Indian air force killed 31 people  including women and children  and raised fears of an escalating conflict between the two nuclear-armed countries.

Islamabad called the nine strikes, on Pakistan-administered Kashmir and the Pakistani province of Punjab, an act of war and said it had shot down several Indian aircraft.

India said it had targeted terror camps inside Pakistan in response to the 22 April terrorist attack in Pahalgam that left 26 dead, all but one of them Hindu tourists.

It was the first attack on Pakistans most populous province since the two countries fought a war more than half a century ago. Kashmir has been split between the countries since 1949 and is claimed by both in its entirety.

Sir Keir Starmer said the situation was of serious concern to many across Britain and urged calm. We are engaging urgently with both countries as well as other international partners, encouraging dialogue, de-escalation and the protection of civilians, he told MPs in the Commons.

The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for the region, warning against all travel within seven miles of the border and 10 miles of the Line of Control, the de facto border that divides disputed Kashmir.

New Delhi has long accused Islamabad of fuelling separatism and militancy in Kashmir, the restive Himalayan region claimed in full by both countries but held only in part. Indian officials have said two of the gunmen who allegedly launched that attack were Pakistanis, but did not provide any evidence.

open image in gallery Men gather for funeral prayers for victims of the Indian missile strike on Bahawalpur early on Wednesday ( Reuters )

Pakistan has denied any role in the massacre and called for an international investigation.

India typically describes all militancy in Kashmir as terrorism backed by the neighbouring country. Pakistan denies this, and many Muslim Kashmiris consider the militants to be part of a homegrown separatist struggle.

Pakistans military claimed it shot down five Indian fighter jets and a drone involved in the strikes. The Indian army said at least 10 civilians were killed and 48 injured as Pakistani forces heavily shelled border areas in Jammu and Kashmir.

At a press briefing in New Delhi, an Indian military spokesperson said jets had attacked facilities linked to militant groups Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Muridke, Bahawalpur, Sialkot, Muzaffarabad and Kotli.

open image in gallery A Bilal mosque in Muzaffarabad was hit by an Indian missile strike ( EPA )

India called it Operation Sindoor, using the Hindi word for the red vermilion powder worn by married Hindu women in an apparent reference to the widows of the 22 April attack.

Masood Azhar, the chief of Jaish-e-Mohammad, said the strikes killed 10 members of his family in Bahawalpur, including his sister and her husband, his nephew and his wife, a niece, and five children.

Mr Azhar was freed from an Indian prison in 1999 in exchange for 155 hostages on an Indian Airlines flight hijacked and flown to Afghanistan.

Indian defence officials said the military was ready to deal with any misadventure by Pakistan, signalling preparedness for retaliation.

open image in gallery Aircraft debris is seen in Kashmirs Pampore area ( Mohammad Dawood/The Independent )

On the Indian side of Kashmir, fearful residents rushed to stock up on groceries and fuel.

At dawn, the wreckage of a downed aircraft was spotted, but the area was swiftly sealed off from residents and journalists.

Regional authorities ordered schools to remain closed, particularly in districts near the de facto border with Pakistan.

Indian authorities had already ordered civil defence drills across the country, including in schools where pupils rehearsed running to safety under desks.

In Pampore, south of the capital Srinagar, villagers spent much of the night trying to douse flames after an unidentified aircraft crashed.

An eyewitness said the plane came down in the Wuyan area. "At around 2am, we heard a loud noise, and all houses were lit up by a bright light followed by a blast," the villager, who asked not to be named, told The Independent. "We thought it was a mock drill as planned, but there were multiple blasts after that and there was a strong diesel smell spreading.

"We saw an aircraft that passed from behind our house, it returned and hit a school building. There was a loud thud and fire, the villager said.

Fire services were called and they controlled the blaze. Then the army arrived and we werent told anything further until this morning.

In Muzaffarabad, capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, people ran to safety after hearing loud explosions. TV channels showed videos of explosions, fire, large plumes of smoke in the night sky and people fleeing in several places in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Mosque loudspeakers told people to seek shelter as the ground shook and sounds of explosions reverberated.

open image in gallery Pakistani soldiers attend funeral prayers for the victims of an Indian missile strike in Muridke, a town in Pakistans Punjab province, on Wednesday ( AP )

We came outside, Muhammad Shair Mir, 46, told Reuters. "Then another blast happened. The whole house moved. Everyone got scared, we all evacuated, took our kids and went up the hill."

Mr Mir said he and his family spent four hours in the open, too afraid to return home. Some of his neighbours were injured, while others were left deeply shaken.

This is just wrong, he said, his voice trembling. "Innocent people are suffering. Our poor mothers are unwell, our sisters are unwell. The blasts rattled our homes, our walls are cracked, our children are terrified.

open image in gallery Airspace over Pakistan is nearly empty after flight diversions ( Flight Radar )

A wave of flight cancellations and diversions hit Asia, the Middle East, and Europe as airlines rerouted aircraft to avoid Pakistani airspace.

Images from flight tracking websites showed a long line of aircraft passing over Oman, UAE and Kuwait after the attack.

Authorities in Pakistan said 57 international flights were in the countrys airspace when India struck. Prime minister Shehbaz Sharifs office said Indias action "caused grave danger to commercial airlines" belonging to Gulf countries and endangered lives.

Indias budget airline IndiGo said it was cancelling 165 flights until Saturday morning. SpiceJet said it cancelled flights to Srinagar and to the cities of Dharamshala, Leh, Jammu and Amritsar in northern India after those airports were closed.

Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this report
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

India fired missiles across the border into Pakistan and Pakistan-administered regions early on Wednesday in response to the deadly terror attack in Kashmirs Pahalgam which claimed 26 lives last month.

The attack, which took place at the popular tourist destination on 22 April during peak tourist season, was the deadliest on civilians in Kashmir in decades. According to witnesses, the attack in Pahalgam was carried out by four to six gunmen in military fatigues who emerged from a nearby forest and unleashed a barrage of gunfire from close range.

The missiles, fired in the early hours of Wednesday from Indias airspace near Kashmir, hit multiple areas in Pakistan that India believes to be terror hideouts and infrastructure, Indian defence ministry officials said in a statement.

The strikes were carried out between 1.05am to 1.30am, they said.

A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed, the Indian defence ministry said, adding that the Indian Army targeted a total of nine sites

Indias ministry of external affairs on Wednesday held a press briefing in capital Delhi to share information about the alleged terror camps targeted and show aerial footage of the airstrikes.

"The selection of these targets for Operation Sindoor was based on credible intelligence inputs and the role of these facilities in perpetrating the terror activities. The locations were also selective to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives. This was done with due diligence, and the camps selected for targeting and their engagement will now be shown to you, said Indian Air Forces wing commander Vyomika Singh present at the briefing.

She added that Indias cross-border strike operation was undertaken through precision capability.

open image in gallery Smoke billows after an artillery shell landed in the main town of Poonch district in India's Jammu region on 7 May 2025 ( AFP/Getty )

A niche technology of weapons with careful selection of warheads was ensured so that there will be no collateral damage. The point of impact in each of the targets was a specific building or a group of buildings, the Indian Air Force official said.

She added that all targets aimed at by India were neutralised with clinical efficiency, and the results reiterate the professionalism of the Indian armed forces in the planning and execution of their operations.

India has demonstrated considerable restraint in its response. However, it must be said that the Indian Armed Forces are fully prepared to respond to Pakistani misadventures, if any, that will escalate the situation, Commander Singh said.

The nine locations shared by India include Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Rawalakot, Chakswari, Bhimber, Neelum Valley, Jhelum, and Chakwal in Pakistan-occupied region and Bahawalpur inside Pakistan.

Pakistan's prime minister Shehbaz Sharif has called the pre-dawn strikes by India on Pakistani soil an "act of war" and said Islamabad reserves the right to "give a strong response". A day after the Pahalgam attack, when India and Pakistan fired diplomats on each side, Pakistans foreign minister Ishaq Dar called Delhis punitive measures immature and hasty.

India has not given any evidence. They have not shown any maturity in their response, Mr Dar told a TV channel. This is a non-serious approach. They started creating hype immediately after the incident.

Both sides claimed casualties in the cross-border strikes. Pakistans Army chief Syed Asim Munir said the strikes killed 26 civilians and injured 46 others. Pakistans prime minister Shahbaz Sharif has called Indian airstrikes an act of war.

open image in gallery Smoke billows after an artillery shell landed in the main town of Poonch district in India's Jammu region on 7 May 2025 ( AFP/Getty )

The Indian Army attacked the terror infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered territories that were being used to plan and direct attacks against India, the defence ministry said, adding that Pakistans military infrastructure was not targeted.

Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution, the statement said.

These steps come in the wake of the barbaric Pahalgam terrorist attack in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were murdered. We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable.

India has credible leads, technical inputs, testimony of the survivors, and other evidence pointing towards the clear involvement of Pakistan-based terrorists in this attack, Indias embassy in Washington said in a statement shortly after the airstrikes.

Indias foreign secretary Vikram Misri said Indias intelligence of Pakistan-based terror modules showed further attacks against India were impending.

open image in gallery Fire fighters douse smoke coming out from the debris of an aircraft near Akhnoor on the outskirts of Jammu, India, Wednesday, 7 May 2025 ( AP )

There was thus a compulsion both to deter and to preempt. Earlier this morning, as you would be aware, India exercised its right to respond and preempt as well as deter more such cross-border attacks, he said.

The Indian airstrikes focused on dismantling the terrorist infrastructure and disabling terrorists likely to be sent across to India, Mr Misri said.

open image in gallery Map shows locations across Pakistan where Indian military strikes hit ( The Independent )

A military retaliation from India against Pakistan was expected for days after the terrorist attack on civilians in Kashmirs Pahalgam killed mostly tourists visiting the popular destination in April.

Sources involved in the investigation by the Indian security forces told NDTV and The Indian Express that the attack was likely carried out by at least five militants  three Pakistanis and two Kashmiris. The police identified the suspects as Adil Hussain Thoker from Anantnag in Kashmir, and Hashim Musa alias Suleiman and Ali Bhai alias Talha Bhai from Pakistan.

The police claimed the suspects operated for the Lashkar-e-Taiba, a proscribed militant group based in Pakistan which promptly denied involvement. India has not made any arrests in the terrorist attack so far.

Last week, Indias prime minister Narendra Modi vowed that the country was committed to take firm and decisive action against terrorists who carried out the Pahalgam attack and their supporters.

Shortly after the official statement from the defence ministry, Indian Armys official handle on social media shared a post reading: Justice is Served. Jai Hind, along with the Pahalgam Terror Attack hashtag.

Mr Misri said India had flagged its concerns about the terrorist group The Resistance Front (TRF), which briefly claimed responsibility for the attack but withdrew the statement later.

open image in gallery A police officer and rescue workers stand at the site of a suspected Indian missile attack, in Muridke, a town in Pakistan's Punjab province, Wednesday, 7 May 2025 ( AP )

Pakistan-based terrorist organisations Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, which have previously carried out several deadly terrorist attacks on India, were operating through the TRF group, he said during the press briefing.

Investigations into the Pahalgam terror attack have brought out the communication notes of terrorists in and to Pakistan. The claims made by the Resistance Front and their reposting by known social media handles of the Lashkar-e-Taiba speak for themselves, he said.

open image in gallery People look at a part of an aircraft in Wuyan near Indian-administered Kashmir's main city of Srinagar on 7 May 2025 ( AFP/Getty )

The official added that identification of the attackers based on eyewitness accounts as well as other information available to law enforcement agencies has also progressed.

The Indian foreign secretary said the features of this attack also tie in with Pakistan's long track record of perpetrating cross-border attacks in India, which is well documented and beyond question.

Pakistan also has a well-deserved reputation as a haven for terrorists from around the world, with internationally proscribed terrorists enjoying impunity there, he said.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

As the rest of the world urges calm, India and Pakistan are once again teetering on the edge of full-blown conflict amid their most serious military escalation in decades.

India said its air force struck nine sites inside Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir in a pre-dawn raid early on Wednesday, claiming its Operation Sindoor targeted terrorist camps and infrastructure. Pakistan says at least 31 people, including women and children, were killed, despite Indian officials insisting there were no civilian casualties.

Pakistan shot down several Indian aircraft during the strikes, at least three of which came down on the Indian side of the de facto border. The question now is whether that  as well as heavy shelling in Kashmir that Indian police say has killed at least 13 civilians  will be deemed enough of a response.

Pakistani prime minister Shehbaz Sharif said Wednesday morning that Islamabad has every right to respond to the act of war and the entire nation stands with the Pakistani forces, whose morale and spirits are high. Pakistan has every right to give a robust response to this act of war imposed by India, and a strong response is indeed being given, Mr Sharif said.

Analysts say the question is not whether Pakistan will retaliate to the Indian strikes, but how powerful the response will be.

The Himalayan region of Kashmir is at the heart of decades of hostilities between India and Pakistan which both claim the Muslim majority region in whole but control it only in part. The two countries have fought two of their three full-scale wars since independence over the region.

New Delhi has long accused its neighbour of harbouring and backing groups waging an active militant insurgency in the Indian-administered side of Kashmir. It says it has evidence Pakistan was involved in the 22 April terror attack on Pahalgam in Kashmir where 26 people were killed, most of them tourists. Islamabad has rejected the allegations and called for an independent investigation.

open image in gallery Local residents stand outside a mosque of an Islamic seminary partially damaged by a suspected Indian missile attack ( AP )

Pakistan has a history of swift counterattacks  its something were taught in army training as well. So, a retaliation is not a question of 'if' but 'when'. Pakistan will have to respond to satisfy its domestic audience. Not doing so would invite criticism for both the Shehbaz Sharif government and the Pakistan Army, retired Lt Col JS Sodhi told The Independent.

Pakistan will avoid targeting any major military installation in India, as that would be seen as an act of war. Instead, we can expect them to strike civilian infrastructure or bombing at border areas which could cause civilian casualties, a move intended to send a message without provoking full-scale war.

The army veteran said Pakistan is likely to limit its retaliation to a less lethal blow to avoid escalation, noting that China  a vital ally to Islamabad  has already urged calm and has a vested interest in keeping tensions between India and Pakistan under control.

Responding to the Indian strikes, the Chinese foreign ministry said the Xi Jinping government finds "Indias military operation early this morning regrettable.

China opposes all forms of terrorism. We urge both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, remain calm, exercise restraint and refrain from taking actions that may further complicate the situation," a spokesperson added.

Lt Col Sodhi said Chinas influence over Pakistan would be a key factor in deescalation, arguing that Beijing has no interest in a major conflict on its western flank while it pursues its own interests to the east.

China would not allow Pakistan to escalate it into a full-fledged war as its number one target is Taiwan, he said.

open image in gallery Metal debris lies on the ground in Wuyan in south Kashmir's Pulwama district ( Reuters )

India has previously used targeted airstrikes across the Line of Control (LoC) as retaliation for major militant attacks  notably in 2016 and 2019  which makes the recent strikes part of an emerging pattern in India's military doctrine. The last military escalation saw a brief but fierce dogfight between a Pakistan Air Force pilot and an Indian Air Force pilot which ended with Pakistan capturing Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman after his fighter jet was shot down. The pilot was eventually returned to India, helping to bring tensions back under control.

But the stakes now appear higher, as well as the danger of a pattern of escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. South Asia analyst Michael Kugelman warned that the current tit-for-tat dynamic is higher up the escalatory ladder than in past confrontations.

open image in gallery ( The Independent )

Mr Kugelman, an American foreign policy author and expert specialising in South Asia, said Wednesday mornings strike was one of the most intense in years, and that Pakistans response would surely pack a punch as well.

These are two strong militaries that, even with nuclear weapons as a deterrent, are not afraid to deploy sizeable levels of conventional military force against each other, Mr Kugelman told the Associated Press.

The escalation risks are real. And they could well increase, and quickly.

While Wednesdays events mirror those of 2019 in many ways, there are concerns that both sides could be willing to push their conventional military activity further this time around.

Decision makers in both states now have a higher risk appetite for conflict initiation and escalation than prior to 2019, said Frank O'Donnell, a non-resident fellow at the South Asia Program at the Stimson Center, a think-tank in Washington, as they had managed then to clash without nuclear weapons being used.

But without a clear mutual sense of the precise actions, that could trigger inadvertent escalation, he added.

Each side will think they are in a better position than last time, said Muhammad Faisal, a South Asia security researcher based at the University of Technology, Sydney. It is only when we see actual combat that we will find out.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

India launched strikes on Pakistan and Pakistani Kashmir on Wednesday, an assault its neighbour called a "blatant act of war" as tension spirals between the nuclear-armed rivals after a deadly attack on tourists in Indian Kashmir last week.

India said its Operation Sindoor struck nine Pakistani sites on Wednesday that provided "terrorist infrastructure" and from which attacks against it were orchestrated. Its military spokesperson said the sites were completely destroyed.

Sindoor, which refers to the red vermilion powder worn by married Hindu women, is an apparent reference to the widows left by the 22 April attack that killed 26 men, most of them Hindu.

open image in gallery Smoke billows after an artillery shell landed in the main town of Poonch district in India's Jammu region on 7 May 2025 ( AFP/Getty )

India accuses Pakistan of backing the massacre, a charge Pakistan denies. Both had also expelled diplomats and citizens, ordered the border shut and closed their airspace for each other ahead of Wednesdays strikes.

Here's a look at multiple conflicts between the two countries since their bloody partition in 1947:

1947  Months after British India is partitioned into a predominantly Hindu India and a Muslim-majority Pakistan, the two young nations fight their first war over control of Muslim-majority Kashmir, then a kingdom ruled by a Hindu monarch. The war killed thousands before ending in 1948.

1949  A UN-brokered ceasefire line leaves Kashmir divided between India and Pakistan, with the promise of a U.N.-sponsored vote that would enable the region's people to decide whether to be part Pakistan or India. That vote has never been held.

1965  The rivals fight their second war over Kashmir. Thousands are killed in inconclusive fighting before a ceasefire is brokered by the Soviet Union and the United States. Negotiations in Tashkent run until January 1966, ending in both sides giving back territories they seized during the war and withdrawing their armies.

1971  India intervenes in a war over the independence of East Pakistan, which ends with the territory breaking away as the new country of Bangladesh. An estimated 3 million people are killed in the conflict.

open image in gallery India Pakistan Kashmir Timeline ( AP )

1972  India and Pakistan sign a peace accord, renaming the ceasefire line in Kashmir as the Line of Control, a heavily fortified stretch of military outposts that divide the region between them. Both sides deploy more troops along the frontier, turning it into a heavily fortified stretch of military outposts.

1989  Kashmiri dissidents, with support from Pakistan, launch a bloody rebellion against Indian rule. Indian troops respond with brutal measures, intensifying diplomatic and military skirmishes between New Delhi and Islamabad.

1999  Pakistani soldiers and Kashmiri fighters seize several Himalayan peaks on the Indian side of the territory. India responds with aerial bombardments and artillery. At least 1,000 combatants are killed over 10 weeks and a worried world fears the fighting could escalate to nuclear conflict. The U.S. eventually steps in to mediate, ending the fighting.

open image in gallery India Pakistan Kashmir Timeline ( AP )

2016  Militants sneak into an army base in Indian-controlled Kashmir, killing at least 18 soldiers. India responds by sending special forces inside Pakistani-held territory, later claiming to have killed multiple suspected rebels in surgical strikes. Pakistan denies that the strikes take place, but it leads to days of major border skirmishes. Combatants and civilians on both sides are killed.

2019  The two sides again come close to war after a Kashmiri insurgent rams an explosive-laden car into a bus carrying Indian soldiers, killing 40. India sends carries out air strikes in Pakistani territory, claiming to have struck a militant training facility. Pakistan later shoot down an Indian warplane and captures a pilot. He was later released, deescalating tensions.

open image in gallery An Indian paramilitary personnel patrols along the banks of Dal Lake in Srinagar ( AFP/Getty )

2025  Militants attack Indian tourists in region's Pahalgam resort town and kill 26 men, most of them Hindus. India blames Pakistan for the attack, something Islamabad denies, and vows revenge on the attackers, sending tensions to their highest point since 2019. Both sides cancel visas of each other's citizens, recall diplomats, shut their only land border crossing and close their airspace to each other. New Delhi also suspends a crucial water-sharing treaty with Islamabad.

The following week, explosions were heard in several places across Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir as India said it had attacked "terrorist infrastructure" in nine sites. Pakistan vowed to respond to the attacks. India fired missiles across the border into Pakistani-controlled territory early on Wednesday at 1.44am local time (8.14pm GMT). Up to 26 strikes were fired on at least six locations, a Pakistani military spokesperson told news agencies. At least eight civilians, including a child, were killed in India's pre-dawn airstrikes, Islamabad said. At least 35 others were injured.
China unveils new measurement, control system in boost for quantum computer production

Xinhua) 10:43, May 07, 2025

HEFEI, May 6 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese firm released Origin Tianji 4.0, a self-developed superconducting quantum measurement and control system that supports 500-plus-qubit quantum computers, signifying the advancement of China's production capabilities in quantum computing.

Origin Quantum, a startup based in the eastern Chinese city of Hefei, built and upgraded the fourth-generation system based on its preceding 3.0 version, which powers Origin Wukong, China's independently developed third-generation superconducting quantum computer. The new system features improvements in scalability, integration, stability and automation.

Dubbed the "nerve centers" of quantum computers, measurement and control systems manage precise signal generation, acquisition and control for quantum chips.

Kong Weicheng, deputy director of Anhui Quantum Computing Engineering Research Center and head of the system's development team, said Origin Tianji 4.0 will enhance the efficient control and accurate readout of quantum chips, reducing the R&D and delivery timeline of quantum computers.

Since it went into operation on Jan. 6, 2024, Origin Wukong has served users in 139 countries and regions over 26 million times, and completed more than 380,000 quantum computing tasks, covering a wide range of industries from finance to biomedicine, according to the research center.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Indias missile launch into Pakistani territory, and Pakistans promise to hit back, has stoked fears of a war between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

The attack claimed to be retaliation for the gun massacre on tourists in April in Pahalgam, Kashmir, but Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called the pre-dawn strikes an "act of war" and vowed his country would deliver a robust response.

India and Pakistan have built up nuclear arsenals over the years. But their purpose is to stop wars, not start them.

India has a no first use policy. That means it will only retaliate with nuclear weapons if there is a nuclear attack on Indian forces or Indian territories.

Pakistans policy is to use tactical nuclear weapons to counter nuclear threats and conventional military attacks from its bigger, stronger and richer regional rival.

open image in gallery A building damaged by a suspected Indian missile attack, in Muridke, a town in Pakistan's Punjab province ( AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary )

South Asia analyst Michael Kugelman said the Wednesday morning strikes were some of the highest-intensity from India on its rival in years and that Pakistans response would surely pack a punch as well.

These are two strong militaries that, even with nuclear weapons as a deterrent, are not afraid to deploy sizeable levels of conventional military force against each other, Kugelman said. The escalation risks are real. And they could well increase, and quickly.

Neither has details about the others arsenal

Neither country knows what nuclear weapons the other has or how many. India conducted its first nuclear test in 1974. Pakistan carried out its first in 1988.

Think tanks suggest Pakistan has 170 warheads while India has 172. Some analyses indicate Pakistan could have more, around 200. Pakistan holds its nuclear arsenal to deter India from invasion or a massive attack.

In the current situation, it is up to Pakistan to decide how it fights back without provoking India further and without starting something it cannot win. So far, it claims to have shot down several Indian jets in retaliation.

Despite decades of hostility and suspicion, India and Pakistan are signatories to a pact that bars them from attacking each others nuclear facilities. As part of the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear Installations and Facilities, the two sides exchange lists of their nuclear facilities and installations each January. They have exchanged lists for 34 consecutive years.

However, neither country is a signatory to the global Non-Proliferation Treaty aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons technology.

Both prefer limited strikes on specific targets

Flare-ups between India and Pakistan have seen precision attacks and reprisals, escalating slowly while giving each side the option to defuse. Border skirmishes are common.

India has been under huge domestic pressure to respond this time because the victims in last months gun massacre were civilians. It said its armed forces targeted sites used by militants linked to the attack on tourists.

In 2019, after a suicide car bombing, there was a predawn airstrike from India that it said targeted a terrorist training camp in Pakistan.

open image in gallery An Indian para-military force soldier stands guard at Pampore in Pulwama district of Indian controlled Kashmir ( AP Photo/Dar Yasin )

Pakistan later claimed to have shot down two Indian warplanes in Kashmir and captured a pilot. The pilot was eventually released and the situation began to normalise. But the episode showed India was willing to enter Pakistani airspace and launch strikes, setting a new threshold for retaliation.

Skirmishes and strikes have so far been contained to border areas, including the Line of Control, the de facto frontier dividing Kashmir.

The tactic carries the risk of miscalculation because any casualties, especially civilian ones, could aggravate domestic sentiment on either side.

The international community wants restraint

With wars escalating in the Middle East, the international community does not want conflict in South Asia.

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio has repeated his calls for India and Pakistan to calm things down, while United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has expressed his concern about Indian military operations. He has called for maximum restraint.

Both India and Pakistan have moved swiftly to highlight their diplomatic engagement in the region, issuing statements pointing to their alliances and positions on the world stage.

President Donald Trump, who previously said the U.S. would not get involved in mediation, said he wanted things to end quickly.

I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. Theyve been fighting for a long time. Theyve been fighting for many, many decades. I just hope it ends very quickly.

The nine countries that have nuclear weapons

Just nine countries around the world have access to nuclear weapons with an estimated 12,331 warheads between them as recent as the beginning of 2025, according to the Federation of American Scientists (FAS).

Those countries include:

The United States Russia The UK France China North Korea India Pakistan Israel

FAS said the United States and Russia share about 88 per cent of the worlds total inventory of nuclear weapons, and 84 per cent of the stockpiled warheads available for use by the military.

open image in gallery The estimated global nuclear warhead inventories ( Federation of American Scientists )

The FAS says the US has been reducing its nuclear stockpile, while France and Israel have relatively stable inventories.

But China, India, North Korea, Pakistan and the United Kingdom, as well as possibly Russia, are all thought to be increasing their stockpiles.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Explosions were heard in several places in Pakistan on Wednesday as India said it had attacked "terrorist infrastructure" at nine sites and Pakistan vowed to respond to the attacks.

India fired missiles across the border into Pakistani territory early on Wednesday at 1.44am local time (8.14pm GMT).

It said the strikes at nine locations "where terrorist attacks against India have been planned" were retaliation for the massacre of 26 people at the tourist town of Pahalgam in Indian-administered Kashmir on 22 April.

"A little while ago, the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," the Indian government said in a statement.

"Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution," it said.

The strikes killed at least 31 people, Pakistani officials said on Thursday, as prime minister Shehbaz Sharif vowed to "avenge" the deaths.

Mr Sharif said India must suffer the consequences for its cowardly attack.

For the blatant mistake that India made last night, it will now have to pay the price," Mr Sharif said in a televised address on state broadcaster PTV.

"Perhaps they thought that we would retreat, but they forgot that...this is a nation of brave people."

The missiles, early on Wednesday, struck locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and in the country's eastern Punjab province, according to three Pakistani security officials. One of them struck a mosque in the city of Bahawalpur in Punjab, where a child was killed and a woman and a man were injured, one official said.

Pakistani officials claimed five Indian planes had been shot down, including three French-made Rafales, and some soldiers taken prisoner. The Indian government made no official statement, but earlier, an Indian official speaking to Reuters said a fighter jet had crashed in Indian-administered Kashmir and the pilot was taken to hospital.

The officials said Pakistan had launched retaliatory strikes, without providing any details. The officials spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak to the media on the record.

open image in gallery In this photo released by the Inter Services Public Relations, a person injured in the Indian missile attack receives treatment at a hospital in Bahawalpur, Pakistan, on 7 May 2025 ( AP )

Heavy shelling took place throughout the night and Thursday morning across the de facto border in Kashmir. The Indian army said 12 Indian civilians and a soldier had been killed by "indiscriminate" firing on the Indian side, while another five civilians were reported dead due to Indian shelling in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Pakistani authorities in capital Islamabad closed schools on Wednesday after the strikes.

open image in gallery Police officers look on as a cameraman films the Bilal Mosque after it was hit by an Indian strike in Muzaffarabad ( REUTERS )

The two sides have made contact following the strikes, Pakistan's foreign minister Ishaq Dar said.

There has been contact between the two, yes, he told TRT World.

We do not want this situation to escalate, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, the Pakistani defence minister, told Bloomberg on Wednesday, hours after the strikes. But if there are hostile acts initiated from the Indian side, we have to respond.

Speaking to Geo TV on Wednesday evening, Mr Asif warned there was a "clear and present" threat of possible nuclear escalation between India and Pakistan.

On Thursday, following Mr Sharifs statement to avenge the deaths, Indian officials met with more than a dozen foreign envoys and told them: If Pakistan responds, India will respond.

How did we get here?

The development comes amid heightened tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours in the aftermath of an attack on Hindu tourists in Indian Kashmir last month.

India blames Pakistan for backing the gunmen behind the 22 April killing of 26 people, most of them Indian Hindu tourists, and has described it as a terror attack. Islamabad denies the charge.

open image in gallery Indian security officers inspect the site of the Pahalgam attack on 23 April 2025 ( AP )

Both countries have expelled each others diplomats and nationals, as well as closed their borders and shuttered airspace. India has also suspended a critical water-sharing treaty with Pakistan.

A Pakistani minister last week said his country had credible intelligence that an Indian strike was imminent. There has been no military action from India so far.

Heres where the situation stands since the attack:

World leaders urge de-escalation

After an initial wave of condemnations of the attack on tourists, world leaders called for both sides to avoid escalation.

Reacting to the rising India-Pakistan tensions, US president Donald Trump called it a shame and hoped that it would end "very quickly".

"It's a shame, we just heard about it," Mr Trump told reporters at the White House. "I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. They've been fighting for a long time."

The US president added: "I just hope it ends very quickly."

US secretary of state, Marco Rubio, said on X he was "monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely" while adding that Washington will continue to engage the nuclear-armed Asian neighbours towards a "peaceful resolution.

The Indian embassy in Washington said Indian national security adviser, Ajit Doval, spoke with Mr Rubio and briefed him about India's military actions.

Senator Jeanne Shaheen, the ranking member of the US Senates foreign relations committee, has urged restraint, saying she is gravely concerned by reports of military escalation between India and Pakistan.

The world can ill afford instability in South Asia, she wrote in a statement.

United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, was very concerned about Indian military operations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, his spokesperson said on Tuesday while calling for maximum military restraint from both countries.

"The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan."

International pressure has been piling on both New Delhi and Islamabad  which fought two of their three wars over disputed Kashmir  to ease tensions. Senior officials from the US, China, Russia and Saudi Arabia have urged both sides to exercise restraint. Iran has offered to mediate.

Meanwhile, both nations have launched an aggressive diplomatic campaign to shore up support for their positions.

open image in gallery India's prime minister Narendra Modi looks on during the ceremonial reception of Angola's president Joao Lourenco in New Delhi on 3 May 2025 ( AFP via Getty )

India has made efforts to highlight what it called the cross-border link to the attack by briefing diplomats of dozens of countries.

The diplomatic outreach this time has been quite extensive and the idea for India would be to showcase whatever evidence it has to its partners and to make a case that whatever actions might be coming from its side has the support of its partners and allies," said Harsh Pant, foreign policy head at the Observer Research Foundation think tank in New Delhi.

Pakistan has offered to cooperate with an international investigation into the attack and reached out to dozens of foreign diplomats. Islamabad, however, said that it will match or exceed any military action by India.

Tensions on the border

The Indian army has said its troops have exchanged gunfire with Pakistani soldiers along the de facto border, the Line of Control, in Kashmir, blaming the neighbour for unprovoked firing for 10 straight nights. Islamabad, meanwhile, has accused India of violating a ceasefire.

open image in gallery A Kashmiri woman walks towards her home at Tilawari village near the Line of Control in Indian-administered Kashmir ( AP )

In Kashmir, Indian forces have launched a huge operation to hunt the April 22 attackers. At least 2,000 people have been detained and questioned. Some have been arrested under anti-terrorism laws that allow authorities to detain people without formal charges. Indian forces also blew off at least nine family homes of suspected rebels, who have been fighting for independence or merger with Pakistan.

The crackdown has led to fear and anxiety in Kashmir, stirring traumatic memories of the regions decades-long insurgency and Indias brutal response.

Praveen Donthi, senior analyst with the International Crisis Group, said: Kashmiris are always the first to bear the brunt of any political or military tensions between India and Pakistan.

"The collective punishment imposed on Kashmiris and the state violence unleashed against them further inflames the conflict," he added.

On Monday, Pakistans military test-fired a short-range missile, the second test launch since a medium-range ballistic missile on Saturday.

Indias navy also test-fired missiles last week.

In 2019, a skirmish between the two countries almost spiralled out of control, before US intervention eased tensions.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Allies of New Delhi and Islamabad called for restraint and diplomacy after India conducted military strikes inside Pakistan early on Wednesday, dramatically escalating the risk of a wider conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

Some countries offered cautious support for Indias claim of countering terrorism following the missile strikes in Pakistan, which New Delhi had blamed for a terror attack in Kashmir last month.

India claimed that it struck nine terror camps across seven cities in Pakistan in retaliation for the 22 April attack at a tourist town in Kashmir that left 26 people dead, mostly Hindu tourists.

The attack in Pahalgam was one of the deadliest ever on civilians in the Himalayan region roiled by separatist violence.

Follow The Independents live coverage of India-Pakistan tensions.

India and Pakistan have fought two wars over Kashmir  which they both control only in part but claim in whole  and New Delhi has long accused Islamabad of backing the armed separatist struggle against its rule that started in the late 1980s.

The missile strikes and the subsequent exchange of shelling along the border caused fatalities, with Islamabad putting its death toll at 26 and India at 10.

US president Donald Trump described rising tensions in the subcontinent as a shame in one of the first responses to the attack that happened late Tuesday US time.

"It is a shame, we just heard about it," he told reporters at the White House. "I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. They have been fighting for a long time."

The president said he hoped it ends very quickly.

US secretary of state Marco Rubio, who was briefed by Indian national security adviser Ajit Doval following the strikes, said he was "monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely". He added that Washington would continue to engage the South Asian neighbours towards a peaceful resolution.

India has credible leads, technical inputs, testimony of survivors and other evidence pointing towards the clear involvement of Pakistan-based terrorists in this attack," its embassy in Washington declared in a statement about Mr Dovals call with Mr Rubio.

open image in gallery Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri holds a press briefing following military strikes on Pakistan ( Reuters )

British foreign secretary David Lammy "reached out" to his counterparts in India and Pakistan after the strikes, one of his cabinet colleagues said.

Our message would be that we are a friend, a partner to both countries. We stand ready to support both countries. Both have a huge interest in regional stability, in dialogue, in de-escalation and anything we can do to support that, we are here and willing to do," trade secretary Jonathan Reynolds told the BBC.

The Foreign Office updated its travel advice for the region, warning British nationals against going near the India-Pakistan border or into Pakistans Balochistan province.

The strikes came shortly after India and the UK agreed to boost bilateral trade by 25bn in what would be Britains biggest post-Brexit trade agreement.

open image in gallery Suspected debris from an Indian aircraft lies in the compound of a mosque in Pampore, Kashmir ( AP )

China, an ally of Pakistan and rival of India, sought to strike a balanced tone by expressing regret over the missile strikes and simultaneously denouncing terrorism.

China expresses regret over India's military actions this morning and is concerned about the current developments, the foreign ministry said in a statement. China opposes all forms of terrorism.

Beijing called on New Delhi and Islamabad to prioritise peace and stability, remain calm and restrained, and avoid taking actions that further complicate the situation.

Analysts said China could play a key role in de-escalating the situation given its interest in regional stability and economic investments in Pakistan.

China is the largest investor in Pakistan by far, with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor a cornerstone of its economic strategy in the region.

At the same time, China has multiple border disputes with India, including in the northeastern part of the Kashmir region.

open image in gallery Smoke billows after an artillery shell lands in Poonch town of Jammu and Kashmir on 7 May 2025 ( AFP via Getty )

The UAE called on India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and de-escalate tensions. Foreign minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan stressed the importance of dialogue and mutual understanding to prevent military escalation, strengthen stability in South Asia, and avoid further regional tensions.

The UAE, a key partner of both countries, stressed that diplomacy remains the most effective means of peacefully resolving crises.

Israel, a close ally of India, supported the missile strikes. Israel supports Indias right for self-defence. Terrorists should know theres no place to hide from their heinous crimes against the innocent, Israeli ambassador Reuven Azar posted on X.

Japans chief cabinet secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said Tokyo was deeply concerned this incident could incite retaliation and escalate to a full-scale military conflict. He urged the two neighbours to exercise restraint and stabilise the situation through dialogue.

Russia said it was deeply concerned about the growing military confrontation. The foreign ministry called on both countries to show restraint, state media TASS reported.

Moscow enjoys warm relations with both India and Pakistan, but has historically been closer to New Delhi, a major buyer of its weapons.

Indian prime minister Narendra Modi has not spoken about the strikes yet, but has reportedly postponed his trip to Croatia, The Netherlands, and Norway.

His foreign minister S Jaishankar said the world must show zero tolerance for terrorism in a one-line response on X, sharing an image with the words Operation Sindoor, the name given to the military action.

Pakistani prime minister Shahbaz Sharif, meanwhile, said his country had every right to give a robust response to this act of war imposed by India.

And a strong response is indeed being given, he said.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Sothebys has postponed the controversial auction of ancient gem relics linked to the Buddhas remains at the last hour after the Indian government threatened legal action.

The international auction house said in a statement that the auction due to take place on Wednesday at 10.30am in Hong Kong would be postponed.

The pause is to allow discussions between the parties, including the Indian government, the sellers, and three descendants of William Claxton Peppe, a British colonial explorer who in 1898 excavated the gems, from the holy burial ground in northern India in 1898.

It said we look forward to sharing any updates as appropriate. Some of Sotheby's webpages about the auction were no longer available on Wednesday.

The auction, titled The Piprahwa Gems of the Historical Buddha, Mauryan Empire, Ashokan Era, circa 240-200 BCE, were set to be a centrepiece of a two-week series of Sothebys auctions in Hong Kong, dedicated to Asian art and antiquities.

open image in gallery This undated photo released by Sotheby's, shows the Piprahwa Gems of the Historical Buddha ( Sotheby's )

However, the Indian culture ministry issued a legal notice to the auction house, saying the gems should be treated as the sacred body of the Buddha and their auction would be participating in continued colonial exploitation.

The government is seeking their repatriation to India, describing them as an inseparable part of the countrys religious and cultural heritage.

These relics, excavated from the Piprahwa Stupa  widely recognised as the ancient city of Kapilavastu, the birthplace of Lord Buddha  hold immense historical and spiritual significance, the ministry said in its statement.

The letter to the auction house said that Peppes great-grandson, Chris Peppe, a Los Angeles-based TV director and film editor, lacks the authority to sell these objects which constitute inalienable religious and cultural heritage of India and the global Buddhist community.

The 334 gems were to go under the hammer with the starting bid of HK$100m (9.7m) and included bone fragments, crystal and soapstone reliquaries, gold ornaments and precious stones such as garnets, pearls, coral, and amethysts.

Found alongside ash and bones of the Buddha, the relics were originally buried in a domed-shaped funerary monument called a stupa in Piprahwa believed to be in present day Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.

They carved in floral and other motifs, including offerings said to have been made during the reinterment of the Buddhas remains more than 200 years after his death around 480 BC.

The British crown took custody of the Peppe familys findings under the 1878 Indian Treasure Trove Act with the family allowed to retain a fifth of 18,00 gems, a majority went to the colonial museum in Kolkata and bones and ashes were gifted to the Buddhist monarch King Chulalongkorn of Siam, now Thailand.

Chris Peppe a descendant of William Claxton Peppe, defended the auction, arguing it was the fairest and most transparent way to transfer the relics to Buddhists. He maintained that the gems are not corporeal remains but offerings from a later period, asserting that their ownership is legally unchallenged.

The Indian Ministry of Culture said on Facebook on Wednesday it was pleased to inform that the auction was postponed after its intervention.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A wave of flight cancellations and diversions hit Asia, the Middle East, and Europe on Wednesday morning as airlines rerouted aircraft to avoid the Pakistani airspace, which remained closed following India's precision strikes on alleged terror sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

The escalation, one of the most serious between the nuclear-armed neighbours in over two decades, has left northern airspace across the subcontinent nearly empty of civilian aircraft, with both India and Pakistan suspending operations at key airports and multiple international carriers announcing route changes.

Flight tracking data from Flightradar24 showed more than dozens of flights cancelled and rerouted as of Wednesday morning. Airlines from Europe, the Middle East, and Asia confirmed emergency mid-air changes and longer detours over the Arabian Sea and Central Asia to keep aircraft out of the conflict zone.

At least 52 flights to and from Pakistan were cancelled on Wednesday morning, hours after the strike, according to FlightRadar24, which monitors flights worldwide. There were 57 international flights operating in Pakistans airspace when India struck, according to a Pakistan army spokesperson.

By around 1pm on Wednesday just a couple of flights were seen landing in Pakistans major cities, including one flight coming from Abu Dhabi to Lahore.

On Thursday, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) said that its airspace had been reopened for flights, but it remains unclear when airlines will resume their regular operations.

Flight Radar shows airspace over Pakistan nearly empty amid flight diversions ( Screengrab/Flight Radar )

In India, 27 airports were closed for commercial operations in northern and western parts, close to the Pakistan border, until 10 May. The shutdown resulted in the cancellation of at least 140 flights on Wednesday.

Indian carriers have cancelled 430 flights on Thursday  about 3 per cent of the countrys total scheduled flights. While airlines in Pakistan cancelled over 147 flights, which amounted to 17 per cent of their daily schedules, according to The Economic Times.

The affected Indian airports include some popular tourist destinations like Amritsar, Ludhiana, Shimla, Dharamsala, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and Bikaner, as well as Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir.

Gulf carriers like Emirates, Etihad, Qatar Airways and Flydubai also cancelled flights to cities in northern Pakistan and India, including Lahore, Islamabad, Sialkot, and Amritsar. Emirates urged passengers not to proceed to airports in affected cities and confirmed that flights to Karachi remain operational.

Etihad said three of its flights en route to Pakistan late on Tuesday were forced to return to Abu Dhabi. Services between Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad have been suspended until further notice. Flydubai, which had initially suspended flights, has resumed limited operations to cities like Multan and Faisalabad, citing ongoing safety assessments.

A spokesperson for Qatar Airways said passenger safety remains their priority.

KLM said it would not fly over Pakistan until further notice. Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, and Korean Air have also adjusted routes, adding several hours to some Europe-bound journeys.

Taiwans EVA Air and China Airlines said that their long-haul flights to London, Milan, Frankfurt, and Rome have been either rerouted for refuelling stops or cancelled entirely. Korean Air said it had switched to a southern route bypassing Pakistan, now flying over Myanmar, Bangladesh, and India.

Lufthansas Delhi-Frankfurt service was seen rerouting southwest near Surat, adding distance compared to its usual route. Airline shares across the region, including EVA Air and China Airlines, dipped on Wednesday.

The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines said the situation was being closely monitored and raised concerns about GPS spoofing and operational disruptions near conflict zones. It warned these could become serious flight safety issues if not addressed.

Indias Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) ordered the closure of several northern airports including Srinagar, Leh, Jammu, Dharamshala and Amritsar. Domestic carriers such as IndiGo, SpiceJet and Air India have suspended services to these destinations, with Air India offering refunds and rescheduling waivers to affected passengers.

In Pakistan, all civilian airspace has been closed for 48 hours. The military said 57 international flights were passing through its airspace when Indian strikes began.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) updated its travel guidance on Tuesday night. British nationals are now advised against all travel within 10km of the India-Pakistan border and against all travel to Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The advisory urges travellers to remain vigilant, monitor local news, and liaise with airlines for real-time updates.

Travellers currently in India or Pakistan are encouraged to register with the FCDOs travel alert system and consult the GOV.UK travel pages before making new plans.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

India said it had conducted precision strikes in Pakistan in an overnight military operation, days after a terrorist attack in Kashmir left 26 people dead and escalated tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

New Delhi has blamed Islamabad for the 22 April attack in the restive Himalayan region, which both countries claim in whole but hold only in part.

The targets of the nighttime strikes, Indian officials claimed on Tuesday, were nine facilities allegedly linked to proscribed militant groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Pakistan's prime minister Shehbaz Sharif called the Indian strikes an "act of war" and said Islamabad reserved the right to "give a strong response".

The Pakistani military claimed its air defences shot down five Indian fighter jets involved in the strikes. The two militaries also exchanged fire along the Line of Control, the de facto border in Kashmir, causing civilian casualties on the Indian side, local media reported.

India claimed its military had carefully selected strike targets in Pakistan to avoid hitting civilian and military infrastructure. The targets were chosen based on intelligence assessments identifying them as operational or training hubs for militants.

The locations spanned from Bahawalpur in the south to Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, in the north.

The targets included Markaz Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur which India claimed was linked to the Jaish leadership, alleged Lashkar-e-Taiba headquarters Markaz Taiba in Muridke, and two alleged hubs of cross-border terrorism in Muzaffarabad and Kotli.

The Indian air force reportedly used Rafale fighters armed with SCALP cruise missiles and precision bombs to strike the targets. Indian officials described the mission as "focused and non-escalatory", with the narrow objective of dismantling terrorist capabilities without provoking a broader conflict.

Pakistani officials reported at least 31 casualties, including women and children, and damage to civilian infrastructure, though this could not be independently verified.

The Pakistani military said it had responded with "measured deterrence" and denied the existence of active militant camps at the targeted sites.

The overnight operation was the most expansive military action by India against Pakistan since the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, which were carried out in response to a militant attack on paramilitary soldiers in Kashmir.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

BMW has predicted a decline in US car tariffs starting in July, citing communications with US officials.

This optimistic outlook contrasts with many of its competitors and reinforces the German automaker's confidence in its 2025 projections.

Despite this positive forecast, BMW acknowledges that existing tariffs imposed by the Trump administration will significantly impact its second-quarter results. However, executives declined to quantify the expected financial hit during an analyst call.

BMW, which operates its largest plant in the United States and holds the title of the country's leading auto exporter by value, emphasised its ongoing discussions with US policymakers. The company believes its arguments for tariff relief are gaining traction.

"We are noticing that things are moving, developing and being negotiated everywhere," stated BMW finance chief Walter Mertl. He added, "Accordingly, our reading, based on all the networks that we have at our disposal, is that we assume that something will change in July."

CEO Oliver Zipse said BMW's operations in South Carolina, home to its Spartanburg plant, supported around 43,000 direct and indirect jobs and made an economic contribution of more than $26 billion a year.

A BMW Neue Klasse X is displayed at a BMW booth during the CES tech show Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025, in Las Vegas ( AP Photo/Abbie Parr )

"Knowing that we are the largest exporter, we are convinced that this will play a role in some appropriate form in the negotiations in the coming weeks," Zipse said.

"We can already see that this will not be ignored, our large footprint," he said, declining to elaborate. Zipse said BMW was deeply rooted in the US market and was talking to all stakeholders to make its point.

Many of BMW's rivals, including Mercedes-Benz MBGn.DE, Ford F.N and Stellantis STLAM.MI, have pulled their 2025 forecasts, blaming the uncertainty caused by US trade policy.

BMW said its 2025 outlook, which was provided in March and factored in all tariffs announced up to that point, still stood. It has forecast earnings before tax on a par with 2024 and an operating margin at its automotive business of 5-7 per cent.

The company said that while it could only estimate the potential impact of tariffs, it expected "some of the tariff increases to be temporary, with reductions from July 2025".

BMW shares were 1.3 per cent higher at 1011 GMT, after the company reported first-quarter earnings before interest and tax of 2.02 billion euros ($2.3 billion) at its auto unit, beating analysts' average forecast of 1.85 billion euros in an LSEG poll.

Helped by strong orders and cost discipline, the unit's operating margin reached 6.9 per cent, down from the 8.8 per cent in the same period of last year, but beating the 6.3% forecast in the poll.

"In an environment where its peers have been withdrawing guidance left, right and centre, BMW's decision to stick with guidance was well-received by the market," Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, said in a note.

"Part of this is predicated on some tariffs going into reverse from July onwards  so investors will be able to judge from the summer whether or not the current forecasts remain credible."

BMW included the caveat that its business performance in 2025 may deviate if tariffs increase or remain in place for longer than anticipated, and flagged the risk of potential supply bottlenecks for specific parts or raw materials.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

An Israeli drone strike on a car in southern Lebanon killed one person early Wednesday, Lebanons state-run National News Agency reported.

Security officials at the scene told The Associated Press that the man killed in the port city of Sidon was a member of the Palestinian Hamas group.

Over the past 19 months, Israels military has targeted members of Hamas in Lebanon where the Palestinian group has a military presence.

The group has also carried out rocket attacks from Lebanon since the Israel-Hamas war began on Oct. 7, 2023, and in recent weeks Lebanese authorities detained several men linked to Hamas on suspicion of firing rockets toward Israel.

Lebanese authorities warned Hamas last week that it would face the harshest measures if it carried out any attacks from Lebanon.
Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

People taking Ozempic and other popular GLP-1 weight loss drugs may expect to feel nausea or stomach pain. But, theres yet another unexpected side effect of the medications that may lead to some confusion.

Its been nicknamed Ozempic feet, when those shedding pounds on the injectable drugs find that the skin on their feet is sagging.

The focus on foot-related side effect appears to have started on social media, according to Heath, with users speculating that the appearance of Sharon Osbourne and Oprah Winfreys feet changed as a result of the jabs.

Ozempic-maker Novo Nordisk did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the matter.

But, are they real? Heres what to know...

Physicians say yes

Doctors say the medications can alter the appearance of our feet.

Other signs are visible veins and tendons, Dr. Scott Isaacs, president of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology, told Health.

The underlying mechanism is that when fat is lost quickly, the skins natural elasticity may not be able to keep up, he said.

open image in gallery People taking popular weight loss drugs may find saggy skin on their feet. The condition can lead to concerning consequences ( AFP via Getty Images )

Age and genetics can contribute to those changes, which may also be seen in peoples hands.

As the heart becomes less taxed with extra weight, the water retention decreases, and the substructures of the foot (veins, tendons, bones) often become more visible, Dr. Barry Weintraub, a New York-based board certified plastic surgeon, told the Daily Mail.

How concerned should I be?

Well, there can be painful effects and people may feel like they are walking on bone.

The feets fat pads act as natural shock absorbers, and the rapid loss of tissue can leave the skin in the foot lax and unsupported, said Isaacs.

That pain can lead you to walk abnormally and increase the risk of exacerbating or developing other conditions. It could also potentially lead to a change in a persons gait, according to Isaacs.

Sagging skin can also be caused by pregnancy, aging, illness, and sun exposure.

open image in gallery Theres no sure way to prevent Ozempic feet. But, there are steps to mitigate impacts of the weight loss ( AFP via Getty Images )

So, what do you do to avoid this?

Isaacs said theres no sure way to prevent Ozempic feet, but that gradual weight loss can give the skin more time to adapt.

Wearing supportive footwear and inspecting the feet for any changes in appearance can help.

Notably, people taking these drugs for diabetes are at risk for other foot-related maladies.

Also, remember to drink water.

Staying well-hydrated is also important, as it helps maintain skin elasticity and prevents dryness or cracking that can worsen foot discomfort, he said.
Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check email Get our free Health Check email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A killer fungus is set to spread through new parts of Europe due to rising temperatures, according to new climate change research.

Aspergillus, a type of mould which can cause lung and breathing problems if it infects a human, may infect millions of people a year as it spreads to more northerly countries in Europe, Asia and America due to rising temperatures, the study shows.

Norman van Rhijn, the Wellcome Trust research fellow at Manchester University who co-authored the study, said the world is nearing a tipping point regarding the rise of fungal pathogens, which thrive in a large variety of environments including inside houses.

Fungal infections will be a factor in millions of deaths worldwide each year, Mr Rhijn said.

open image in gallery The fungus thrives in humans because it can survive in warm temperatures ( Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/Wikimedia )

Aspergillosis, the lung disease caused by spores of Aspergillus which can spread to other human organs, is one such disease.

Speaking to the FT, Mr Van Rhijn said: Were talking about hundreds of thousands of lives, and continental shifts in species distributions. In 50 years, where things grow and what you get infected by is going to be completely different.

Aspergillus can have positive benefits and is used in industrial and food production, including the fermentation of soy sauce and sake.

Inhaling its spores does not make everyone ill, but the deadly fungus can be particularly threatening to those with conditions such as asthma, cystic fibrosis or a weakened immune system.

But fungal research shows Aspergillus fumigatus could spread across an additional 77 per cent of territory by the year 2100 as a result of the worlds heavy use of fossil fuels, potentially exposing nine million people in Europe to the infection, according to the FT.

The species can grow quickly in high temperatures in compost, explaining why it thrives in the 37C internal temperature of the human body.

open image in gallery Aspergillus mould can cause lung illness ( Getty )

Its lifestyle in the natural environment may have provided Aspergillus fumigatus with the fitness advantage needed to colonise human lungs, said professor Elaine Bignell, co-director at the MRC Centre for Medical Mycology at Exeter University.

Another species, aspergillus flavus, lives on crops and could spread to an added 16 per cent of territory in north China, Russia, Scandinavia, and Alaska by 2100, researchers added. Some existing areas in African countries and Brazil may also be made inhospitable - which could be damaging to local ecosystems.

Darius Armstrong-James, professor of infectious diseases and medical mycology at Imperial College London, told the FT: There are serious threats from this organism both in terms of human health and food security.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

New CCTV devices reminiscent of Daleks in Doctor Who will be rolled out on English high streets this summer in a bid to deter shoplifting.

The security systems, named Safer Pods, were piloted in December at the Vintage Guru shop in Northamptonshire, where they are said to have helped to reduce shoplifting within a matter of weeks.

The standalone pods, which capture a 24/7 video stream monitored constantly at an external location, are intended to also act as a visual deterrent to shoplifters, and are equipped with sensors which immediately raise the alarm if the pod is moved or tampered with, according to its manufacturers.

Likening them to Doctor Who Daleks, Vintage Gurus owner Julie Teckman reported within just a few weeks of installing one of the pods that it had been successful in deterring crime in her shop.

They are quite big and noticeable, which you need so people know they are being watched, Ms Teckman told the BBC. It's more about feeling like there is something helping you prevent crime as a lot of our time is taken up watching out for shoplifters and stopping people from thieving.

We have had to employ more staff and install cameras due to crime, so it is nice having the support of the pods.

Following the new devices initial success, Northamptonshires police, fire and crime commissioner Daniella Stone has now agreed to fund a summer rollout of the pods.

The announcement comes after new official figures showed the number of shoplifting offences recorded in a single year by police in England and Wales exceeded half a million for the first time on record.

open image in gallery The number of police-recorded shoplifting offences hit a record high last year, according to the ONS ( PA Graphics )

Police recorded 516,971 shoplifting offences in 2024  a 20 per cent increase on the previous year, and the highest number recorded since modern record-keeping practices began in 2003, according to the Office for National Statistics.

The British Retail Consortium also warned last month that retail crime was continuing to spiral out of control, with shop theft costing retailers more than 2.2bn a year.

The industry group cited a recent survey of major retailers suggesting that there are more than 20 million shoplifting incidents per year, most of which allegedly go unreported as shopkeepers simply dont have faith that the police will take action.

In Northamptonshire, however, a new specialist police unit has reported a significant rise in the number of shoplifting offences filed with a positive outcome over the past year.

Corbys town centre manager Dan Pickard said that the town had seen a 75 per cent reduction in anti-social behaviour following a massive peak last year in which serious incidents rose from around 30 a month to 220 over a sustained four-month period.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Two former friends have been found guilty of chopping down the Sycamore Gap tree in an act of deliberate and mindless criminal damage.

Ground worker Daniel Graham, 39, and mechanic Adam Carruthers, 32, drove overnight from Carlisle to the Northumberland landmark during Storm Agnes in September 2023, and cut down the tree with a chainsaw.

While prosecutors at Newcastle Crown Court could not be sure which of the pair cut down the tree, the jury was told that both men were jointly responsible for the mindless vandalism.

A video was also taken of the destruction by one of the two men, the court was told, and a wedge of the tree was taken away as a trophy. The pairs once-close friendship fell apart as the police investigation closed in on them.

open image in gallery Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers had previously worked together felling trees ( CPS )

At Newcastle Crown Court, a jury found Graham, from Carlisle, and Carruthers, from Wigton, in Cumbria, guilty of two counts of criminal damage each relating to the tree and the Roman wall  which the tree struck when it came down.

There was no visible reaction from either in the dock as the jury returned after just over five hours to convict them of causing 622,191 of criminal damage to the tree and 1,144 of damage to the wall.

open image in gallery The famous tree was planted 150 years ago and became an attraction in the landscape at Northumberland National Park ( PA )

Both defendants will be sentenced on 15 July.

Ms Justice Lambert remanded both defendants until their sentencing date and warned they could face a lengthy period in custody.

The Sycamore Gap tree had stood for over a century in a dip next to Hadrians Wall in the Northumberland National Park, becoming a sacred place in the region for marriage proposals, scattering of ashes and birthdays.

Its destruction was met with wide public outcry, and there was much attention on the opening day of the trial, as the prosecutor Richard Wright KC accused the friends of completing the moronic mission.

open image in gallery After chopping it down, the pair appeared to gloat over their achievement ( PA )

After chopping it down, the pair appeared to gloat over their achievement.

Messages and voice notes between Graham and Carruthers the next day showed them talking about the story going wild and viral, referring to an operation like we did last night and joking that the damage looked like it had been done by a professional.

open image in gallery The scene of the felled Sycamore Gap tree, in September 2023 ( PA )

Jurors heard Graham and Carruthers were best of pals at the time and regularly worked together felling trees. But the pairs friendship unravelled as the impact of the felling soon became clear.

Giving evidence, Graham told jurors Carruthers had confessed to the crime the day after the tree came down, and admitted making an anonymous 101 call to police to report his friend.

The court heard Grahams Land Rover was picked up on automatic number plate recognition cameras between Carlisle and Sycamore Gap at night on 27 September 2023, and returning early the next morning. His phone was traced to cell sites making the same journey.

open image in gallery Graham and Carruthers in court, pictured in a sketch ( Elizabeth Cook/PA )

When police arrested the pair and searched Grahams phone, they found a two-minute and 41-second video which showed the sycamore being cut down at 12.30am on 28 September, and had been sent to Carruthers.

They also found photos and videos of a wedge of tree trunk and a chainsaw in the boot of Grahams Range Rover, although these have never been found.

He accused Carruthers of taking his Range Rover and mobile phone to Sycamore Gap that night without his knowledge, saying he had now turned on his former friend because his business was being affected by Carrutherss actions.

open image in gallery Graham, 39, left, and Adam Carruthers, 32, were found guilty at Newcastle Crown Court of criminal damage on Friday ( Northumbria Police/PA )

Graham claimed during his evidence that Carruthers had a fascination with the sycamore, saying he had described it as the most famous tree in the world and spoken of wanting to cut it down, even keeping a piece of string in his workshop that he had used to measure the circumference.

Carruthers, despite being blamed by his friend, always claimed he knew nothing about who chopped the tree down and told the court he could not understand the outcry over the story, saying it was just a tree.

open image in gallery The National Trust responded to the verdict and thanked the police and CPS for bringing the case to a resolution ( PA )

The National Trust responded to the verdict and thanked the police and CPS for bringing the case to a resolution.

The needless felling of the Sycamore Gap tree shocked people around the country and overseas, demonstrating the powerful connection between people and our natural heritage, a spokesperson said.

It was felt particularly deeply here in the northeast of England, where the tree was an emblem of the region and the backdrop to many personal memories.

open image in gallery The Sycamore Gap at Hadrians Wall in Northumberland ( PA )

Historic England said the felling was felt deeply in the North East as well as nationally and internationally, adding: The needless destruction in September 2023 saw an outpouring of grief and disbelief that showed the strength of peoples connection with nature and heritage.

We will continue to work with partners to create a lasting memory of the tree for people so that it will not be forgotten.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Criminals could face up to two more years behind bars and lose prison privileges if they refuse to attend court to be sentenced under long overdue reforms.

The tougher sanctions come after a series of high-profile killers refused to face their victims families as their punishments were handed down at court.

Grieving families led calls for changes to compel killers to appear in the dock after gunman Thomas Cashman, who murdered nine-year-old Olivia Pratt-Korbel in Liverpool, refused to attend as he was jailed for life in April 2023.

Sir Keir Starmer promised to carry on a pledge to change the law, first made by his predecessor Rishi Sunak, when he met Olivias mother Cheryl Korbel.

open image in gallery Olivia Pratt-Korbel was killed at her home in Liverpool by gunman Thomas Cashman, but he refused to attend court to be sentenced ( PA )

Under the reforms being introduced to parliament in the Victims and Courts Bill on Wednesday, judges will have the power to sentence offenders for up to two more years in prison for avoiding justice by refusing to attend crown court for sentence.

For those who already face lengthy imprisonment or whole life orders, judges could also impose a range of prison punishments on offenders such as confinement to their cells and the stripping of privileges such as extra gym time.

Offenders who have been ordered to attend by a judge but whose disruptive and disrespectful behaviour results in their removal from the courtroom will also be punishable by the same means.

Earlier this year, triple crossbow and knife killer Kyle Clifford refused to attend his sentencing where he received a whole life order in March, while Southport child-murderer Axel Rudakubana avoided facing victims' families as he was removed from his hearing for repeatedly shouting in January.

Other high-profile cases where offenders were absent from sentencing include serial child killer Lucy Letby, law graduate Zara Aleena's murderer Jordan McSweeney, and primary school teacher Sabina Nessa's killer Koci Selamaj.

open image in gallery Southport killer Axel Rudakubana was removed from court after disrupting his sentencing hearing ( Merseyside Police )

Justice secretary Shabana Mahmood said: "This bill will deliver long overdue reforms to ensure victims see justice done and are given the vital support they need as they rebuild their lives.

"There is still more work to do as we fix a justice system that was left on the brink of collapse, but this bill is a step towards rebuilding victims' confidence through our Plan for Change."

Justice minister Alex Davies-Jones added: "I would like to thank the remarkable families of Olivia Pratt-Korbel, Jan Mustafa, Sabina Nessa and Zara Aleena and countless others who have campaigned tirelessly for offenders to have to face the reality of their crimes by attending their sentencing.

"Justice isn't optional  we'll make sure criminals face their victims."

open image in gallery Victims commissioner Baroness Newlove will produce an independent report on whether agencies are meeting their statutory duty over the Victim's Code ( Victims Commissioner )

The bill also plans to restrict parental responsibility from child sex offenders who committed serious crimes against their own child to boost protection for victims.

The move will stop them being able to ask for updates on their child's schooling or trying to interfere in their life.

Meanwhile, the victims' commissioner will be required to produce an independent report on whether agencies are meeting their statutory duty over the Victim's Code, in a bid to further hold the government to account.

Victims' commissioner for England and Wales, Baroness Newlove, said: "These important and welcome reforms give the victims' commissioner the statutory powers needed to deliver on the role's promise: championing victims' rights, scrutinising compliance with the Victims' Code, holding agencies to account, and spotlighting the true victim experience to drive meaningful change.

"Crucially, it introduces much-needed oversight and accountability to how agencies respond to anti-social behaviour - an area where victims have too often felt unheard and unsupported."
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

It will be a crime to climb on Winston Churchills statue in Parliament Square, the government is set to announce on Wednesday.

Offenders could face up to three months in prison and fined 1,000 for desecrating the monument to the former prime minister.

This is a part of a movement to make it a criminal offence to climb certain UK war memorials. While the statue is not classified as one of the UKs war memorials, home secretary Yvette Cooper plans to add it to the list of statues and monuments itll become illegal to scale.

The new law, contained in the flagship Crime and Policing Bill, is currently progressing through Parliament. Other monuments will include the Cenotaph in Whitehall, the Royal Artillery Memorial in Hyde Park, and other tributes to the armed forces across the country.

Ms Cooper told The Sun: As the country comes together to celebrate VE Day, it is only right that we ensure Winston Churchill's statue is treated with the respect it deserves, along with the other sacred war memorials around our country.

Prime minister Sir Keir Starmer has given his backing to the new policy. He told the newspaper: Sir Winston Churchill stands at the summit of our country's greatest heroes, and has been an inspiration to every prime minister that has followed him.

The justifiable fury that is provoked when people use his statue as a platform for their protests speaks to the deep and enduring love that all decent British people have for Sir Winston.

It is the least we owe him, and the rest of the greatest generation, to make those acts criminal.

The 12-foot statue of the World War II leader was unveiled in Westminster Square in 1973 by his widow, Clementine, eight years after her husband had died. Both Queen Elizabeth II and the Queen Mother attended the ceremony.

Its understood that Churchill personally chose the spot where he wanted the statue when the redevelopment for Parliament Square was being approved in the 1950s.

The statue has been targeted by demonstrators over the years. During the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020, the statue was daubed with graffiti.
Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A woman has won almost 30,000 in an employment tribunal after she was compared to Darth Vader by her co-worker.

NHS blood donation worker Lorna Rooke brought a complaint against her co-worker, who had taken a Star Wars-themed online personality test on her behalf and told colleagues that Ms Rooke fell into Darth Vaders category.

A judge ruled that being told you have the same personality type as the infamous villain is a workplace detriment, meaning harm or negative impact experienced by a person.

Darth Vader is a legendary villain of the Star Wars series, and being aligned with his personality is insulting, employment judge Kathryn Ramsden said.

The tribunal found that the claimant not only found the comparison the be detrimental, but that it was reasonable for her to find it so, dismissing the co-workers argument that there were positive attributes to Darth Vader.

Ms Rooke claimed that she was made to feel unpopular when her colleague compared her to the Star Wars villain and was one of the reasons she resigned the following month.

The judge ruled that the outcome of the online quiz reflected the co-workers perception of Ms Rooke, which was then shared in a group environment. The judge said: It is little wonder that the claimant was upset by it.

The tribunal, held in Croydon, London, heard that Ms Rooke began working for the NHS Blood and Transplant service as a training and practice supervisor in 2003.

In August 2021 members of her team took a Star Wars themed Myers-Briggs questionnaire as a team-building exercise.

The Myers-Brigg Type Indicator sorts people into 16 personality categories based on levels of introversion and extroversion, whether they are led by thoughts or feelings and how they judge or perceive the world around them. While widely regarded as pseudoscientific, it has become influential, even being used by some companies to hire employees.

Ms Rooke did not participate as she had to take a personal phone call. When she returned, her colleague Amander Harber had filled out the test on her behalf and announced she had the same personality as the Star Wars villain.

In the Star Wars universe, Vader - real name Anakin Skywalker - is a half-human half-machine villain who gives into the dark side of the force as he seeks victory over his son, Luke Skywalker and the Rebel Alliance.

In the context of this personality test, the Darth Vader category was described as a very focused individual who could bring teams together.

The tribunal rejected Ms Rookes claim that the Darth Vader incident had prompted her to leave, but did find it counted as a detriment. She won the case for detriment after a protected disclosure but lost claims for unfair dismissal, disability discrimination and failure to make reasonable adjustments.

She was awarded 28,989.61 in compensation.

An NHSBT spokesperson said:We acknowledge the outcome of the tribunal. We are committed to maintaining and continually improving a respectful and inclusive workplace for all colleagues.
Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A British energy company has been forced to pay 150,000 in compensation and redress after failing to provide final bills and refund credit balances to over 2,000 customers.

The energy regulator, Ofgem, revealed that 2,284 prepayment meter customers were impacted by a fault in Good Energy's billing system between 2014 and October 2023.

This systemic error meant that prepayment customers switching suppliers or terminating their contracts with Good Energy did not receive their final bills within the mandated six-week timeframe stipulated by Ofgem.

The total payout of 150,067, averaging 66 per customer, encompasses 55,281 in direct compensation and refunds, with a further 94,786 contributed to the industrys voluntary redress fund, a scheme designed to support vulnerable energy consumers.

Those affected by the issue should be issued compensation and possibly goodwill sums to make up for the issue. Anyone who believes they were affected by does not receive this should get in touch with Good Money.

The issue came to light following a self-reported incident of the same error by energy supplier E.On Next to Ofgem last year. Subsequent investigations led to Good Energy updating its systems to rectify the problem, according to Ofgem.

open image in gallery Thousands of customers were affected over a nine-year period, regulators said ( PA Wire )

Beth Martin, director for consumer protection and competition at Ofgem, said: At a time when so many households are facing financial difficulty, its unacceptable that Good Energy failed to provide refunds of money that was owed to customers, compensation they were due, and final bills they were entitled to.

Driving up standards for consumers across the board is our top priority, and improving billing accuracy is a key part of this.

We also expect suppliers to make sure they have robust systems in place to limit the risk of issues like this happening, and to proactively report problems when they arise.

Good Energy chief executive Nigel Pocklington said: We were dismayed to find the billing system issue causing these prepayment customers to have not received their final statements and we deeply apologise to all those affected.

As soon as the issue was identified we put in place a manual process to ensure it did not continue and have since made changes to make sure it does not happen again.

We have also made every effort to provide due compensation to affected customers. This includes goodwill sums in excess of their potential credit balance plus interest, and the general standards of performance payments all customers who do not receive final statements in time.

open image in gallery Ofgems Beth Martin said: Driving up standards for consumers across the board is our top priority, and improving billing accuracy is a key part of this (Yui Mok/PA) ( PA Archive )

Last month, the boss of Ofgem said he wanted to be less heavy handed in policing energy firms, including only taking enforcement action in serious cases of companies failing customers.

Jonathan Brearley said he wanted to take a proportionate, intelligent approach to regulating customer issues in the coming years.

He said: The fact is that over the last few years Ofgem has had to intervene in light of poor services and poor practice for some suppliers.

However, I also recognise that at times, our past approach has been unwieldy, potentially heavy handed and bureaucratic.

But he added that firms need to do more than the regulatory minimum in return.

That includes by providing faster redress payments for issues like poor smart meter installation services or incorrect billing.
Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

The Duke of Sussex has been seen publicly for the first time since he revealed he "would love a reconciliation" with the royal family in an emotional interview.

Prince Harry joined a panel at an event for the Diana Award - a youth initiative set up in memory of his late mother Diana, Princess of Wales.

The duke spoke in Las Vegas on Tuesday evening, days after an interview with the BBC about losing a legal challenge over his security provisions in the UK.

Through the Diana Award, I've had the privilege of meeting young people who have turned adversity into action. Thats not just inspiringit's the kind of untapped potential we cant afford to overlook, Harry told the panel.

open image in gallery Harry pictured during the panel discussion at a Diana Award event ( The Diana Award )

Far too many young people are locked out of leadership pipelines because weve failed to build truly inclusive and accessible pathways.

According to the Diana Award - which says it has the support of both of Dianas sons - Harrys appearance underscores his continued commitment to the initiative and continues the legacy of his mother, Princess Diana, whose unwavering belief in the power of young people remains at the heart of this mission.

He spoke to Legacy Award winners Sikander Sonny Khan, from Michigan in the US, and Christina Williams, from Jamaica, about youth leadership and how employers can proactively create pathways for young people to enter and thrive in the workplace, as he helped launch their new Pledge to Invest initiative.

Meanwhile, the dukes long-standing rift with his family was brought back into the spotlight last week, after he claimed the King will not speak to him and he does not know "how much longer my father has", adding that the court battle over his security is a family dispute".

open image in gallery The duke joined a conversation in Las Vegas on Tuesday evening, days after losing a legal challenge over his security provisions in the UK ( BBC )

The prince stressed that better security was key to repairing his relationship with his family.

He said some members of his family would never forgive him for the book he wrote, Spare, in which he revealed a series of royal secrets.

There have been so many disagreements between myself and some of my family, he explained.

However, Harry said he had now forgiven them.

I would love a reconciliation with my family. There's no point in continuing to fight anymore, he said. I don't know how much longer my father has.
Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Rules that make it almost impossible for small boat refugees to become British citizens have been hit by a legal challenge, The Independent can reveal.

New guidance issued in February stated that anyone who enters the UK illegally by making a dangerous journey, such as via a small boat over the English Channel or by hiding in a lorry, will normally be refused citizenship. The toughened-up rules apply regardless of how much time has passed since the person entered the UK.

Three refugees, who have indefinite leave to remain in the UK, have now filed a legal claim challenging the move, however. The Home Office is expected to defend the policy, likely leading to a clash in the courts over the legality of the changes.

Their claim, which is being led by Duncan Lewis Solicitors, argues that the changes unlawfully discriminate against refugees and breach the Equality Act 2010.

The changes in the policy potentially affect tens of thousands of people who have already been granted settled status in the UK. Charities warned they could have a devastating impact on rape survivors and their families and penalise trafficking survivors.

open image in gallery The After Exploitation charity says the policy dismisses the reality of survivors, punishing victims rather than protecting them ( Getty Images )

At the time, the Home Office said that the strengthened measures make it clear that anyone who enters the UK illegally, including small boat arrivals, faces having a British citizenship application refused.

Previously, refugees who arrived in the UK by irregular routes would have to wait 10 years before being considered for citizenship. The Refugee Council estimates the new rules could prevent more than 70,000 refugees from obtaining British citizenship.

Separately, under plans published by the Conservatives on Tuesday night, Kemi Badenochs party would try to automatically deport anyone who arrived in the UK illegally. The draft legislation also proposes stripping indefinite leave to remain status from migrants who start to claim benefits or who fall below certain income thresholds.

Maya Esslemont, director of the not-for-profit After Exploitation, said: Exploiters often use threats, force or coercion to make modern slavery survivors cross borders without leave. Yet, this policy dismisses the reality of survivors, punishing victims rather than protecting them.

After overcoming all odds to report modern slavery and comply with the UKs complex immigration processes, survivors of trafficking and modern slavery seeking British citizenship deserve a chance to have their case heard fairly, not based on a presumption of bad character which is linked to the way they entered the UK or the journey that they took to get here.

Emily Burnham, caseworker at Women Against Rape, said that its research had found that at least 70 per cent of women who have been forced to flee their countries have suffered rape and other gender-based violence.

open image in gallery Home secretary Yvette Cooper is expected to fight the legal challenge to British citizenship rules ( Getty Images )

She added: This policy risks creating a two-tier society where some people will be denied the rights that others take for granted.

Carita Thomas, at the Anti-Trafficking and Labour Exploitation Unit, said the changes would impact a large number of survivors of trafficking.

She warned: Fear is already spreading among survivors at this change, many of whom hoped to become British after years of struggle through the UK trafficking and immigration systems and after integrating into life in this country.

Jeremy Bloom, consultant solicitor at Duncan Lewis, said: The changes to the good character policy are misguided, unlawful and impractical. This policy potentially affects the tens of thousands of people whose asylum claims were admitted to be considered in the UK, who have been recognised as refugees because of the persecution they faced in their countries of origin, and who have already passed all the necessary tests of their character to be granted settled status in the UK.

The changes also impact victims of trafficking, of gender-based violence, and those who are stateless, he added.

They are only now finding out that they may face being refused British citizenship on the basis of a journey they had to make, many years ago, to escape persecution and reach safety.

We await the decision of the court on permission and will continue to fight this policy on behalf of our clients and all those in similar situations.

The Home Office has been contacted for comment.
Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Social media giants must show responsibility and take swifter action to remove misleading posts, a police watchdog has said.

His Majestys Chief Inspector of Constabulary, Sir Andy Cooke, said misinformation and disinformation spread on social media, and left up for too long, helped fuel the disorder seen across England last summer.

He said that while dramatic events naturally fuel greater use of social media sites, tech companies bear a responsibility to prioritise public safety.

It is great for them, but theyve got to have social responsibility as well, he said.

These companies have got to have responsibility, irrespective of whether they are led from China, led from America.

He called for regulator Ofcom to get beefed-up powers to take posts down more quickly, and said the Online Safety Act has little or no bearing on the real-time effects of online content during instances of rapidly evolving widespread disorder.

open image in gallery HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary Sir Andy Cooke ( Kirtsy OConnor/PA )

Ofcom needs to have the proper capacity and capability to (get posts taken down) quickly if its going to be effective, Sir Andy said.

And in a national disorder issue like you saw, the speed of some of these posts that are going up makes it really difficult to get them down quickly.

If you dont get them down quickly, they spread virally.

Laws around what is classed as inciting public disorder should also be tightened up so that there are tougher consequences for those who knowingly post false information online, he said.

He spoke to journalists as the watchdogs second report on the policing response to last summers riots was published.

The report found that forces had not heeded recommendations given by the inspectorate in 2011 and 2021 about intelligence relating to disorder, as well as dealing with social media.

open image in gallery Disinformation after the Southport killings was said to have sparked riots across the country ( Owen Humphreys/PA )

Force chiefs need to be prepared to counter false information or a lack of information with the truth, Sir Andy said, and should consider how to be more open with journalists from established mainstream media outlets about all major investigations.

Forces cant control or counter the speed and volume of online content, that goes without saying, but they need to better appreciate how fast-moving events will require them to counter the false narratives online and be innovative in their approach.

They need to fill the information void that we saw throughout this disorder that was filled with so much misinformation and disinformation, because that misinformation, disinformation, could go viral very, very quickly.

So policing cannot be passive when public safety is at risk.

Some forces have an exceptionally limited ability to deal with content online due to a lack of resources, the report said.

The disorder was predictable, despite national assessments that said the risk of unrest was low.

National police intelligence assessments didnt correctly assess the risk and threat to public safety from a rising tide of disorder, the report found.

Grading the threat and risk of disorder as low was wrong and influenced the timeliness of national mobilisation decisions.

It said the lack of a police intelligence network dealing specifically with disorder is a problem, and called for a return to neighbourhood policing so that officers are more aware of tensions that may be simmering in their area.
Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

JD Wetherspoon forecasts a "reasonable" full-year outcome despite rising staff costs, boosted by recent sales figures attributed to favourable weather conditions.

The pub chain, operating 795 locations across the UK, reported a 5.6 per cent increase in like-for-like sales during the 13 weeks leading up to April 27th. Year-to-date, comparable sales have risen by 5.1 per cent.

It now plans to open up in new sites.

Chairman Tim Martin acknowledged the impact of good weather on recent trading, but expressed optimism for the financial year's results.

He said: Bearing in mind that recent trading has been helped by favourable weather, the company anticipates a reasonable outcome for the financial year, notwithstanding previously reported wage and tax increases of approximately 1.2 million per week.

According to The Sun the company is planning pubs in six new locations. These are:

Douglas, Isle of Man - May 14

Fulham, SW London - June 17

Kenilworth, Warwickshire - July 30

Tooley Street, London Bridge - August 28

Basildon, Essex - September 23

Merchant Square, Paddington - late summer

This follows earlier warnings from the group regarding a 60 million surge in labour costs from April onwards, due to increases in both employers' national insurance contributions and the minimum wage.

open image in gallery Custoemrs enjoy a drink in the sunshine at JD Wetherspoons Royal Victoria Pavilion ( PA Archive )

Mr Martin has cautioned over the impact of the surging wage bill and in January called on Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to cut pub food taxes before the jump in costs linked to last Octobers Budget.

Wetherspoon said total sales in its most recent quarter were up by a more muted 5 per cent and by 4 per cent year to date as it sold off seven venues.

Mr Martin said the group was also investing in new staff facilities across 520 pubs, with 49 in the current financial year, including new staff rooms and changing rooms at a cost of around 100,000 per site.

He added the chain was trialling a new gourmet burger deal, which he said has proved extremely popular.
Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

The UK looks set to agree a post-Brexit youth mobility scheme with the European Union in a major step towards resetting Boris Johnsons damaging Brexit deal.

The move, which was being demanded by European countries and commissioners in Brussels, should help usher in much closer ties with the EU and begin to repair the shattered relationship left by the previous Tory government.

It comes as Sir Keir Starmer hopes to put in place three trade agreements in two months to secure growth for the British economy. With a deal with India announced this week, he will host a summit on 19 May to unveil the Brexit reset agreement. Following this, he hopes to have a US deal with Donald Trump by the end of June.

If Sir Keir pulls it off, it could make the UK one of the worlds pre-eminent trading hubs.

open image in gallery Keir Starmer met European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen in Downing Street last month ( PA )

The youth mobility scheme, which has long been pushed by the European Union but met with reluctance by the British government, would allow under-30s to move and work freely between countries for a limited period.

Britain already has similar agreements with Australia and 12 other countries, including New Zealand, South Korea, Iceland, Uruguay, Hong Kong and Taiwan.

On Wednesday, European affairs minister in charge of negotiations Nick Thomas-Symonds, who had previously insisted there were no plans for a youth mobility scheme, said the UK would consider sensible proposals from Brussels.

However, a Downing Street spokesperson refused to repeat its previous claim that the government is not considering an EU-wide youth mobility scheme.

The spokesperson said the government is always open to listening to sensible proposals from the EU within the framework of bringing down net migration, adding: Im not going to get into a running commentary. These talks are ongoing. They also refused to define what those sensible proposals might be.

It comes ahead of the major EU-UK summit later this month, where the prime minister will host EU chiefs as he pushes for progress in his effort to reset relations with Brussels after the turmoil of the years since the Brexit vote in 2016.

Sir Keirs red lines for the negotiations with Brussels include no return to freedom of movement between countries, but it is understood that the government considers a limited youth mobility scheme would not break that promise.

Government sources said the decision to rule out a return to free movement did not prevent controlled schemes that are in our national interest being considered, and pointed out there are already youth mobility schemes with 13 non-EU countries.

Mr Thomas-Symonds, the minister for EU relations, told the Financial Times that, provided the UK governments red lines were respected, a smart, controlled youth mobility scheme would of course have benefits for our young people.

There is widespread support among the British public for such an agreement, with a YouGov survey of almost 15,000 people indicating that two-thirds (66 per cent) of people backed the scheme, compared to just one in five (18 per cent) who are opposed.

In Nigel Farages Clacton-on-Sea constituency, which voted overwhelmingly in favour of leaving the EU in 2016, more than twice as many people were in favour (57 per cent) than against (25 per cent) the idea of a mobility scheme.

open image in gallery Nick Thomas-Symonds spoke of benefits for our young people ( PA )

As recently as last month, Mr Thomas-Symonds told MPs that on the issue of a youth mobility scheme, it is not part of our plans, although he accepted the UK would listen to proposals.

Liberal Democrat Europe spokesman James MacCleary said Labour should stop flip-flopping and introduce a youth mobility scheme immediately.

Securing a youth mobility scheme with the EU would be a common-sense win-win  creating new opportunities for our young people and delivering a much-needed boost to our economy, he said.

But Tory leader Kemi Badenoch has warned a youth visa scheme could mean we could end up with lots of unemployed people coming to the UK at a time when unemployment is increasing in our country.

The 19 May summit is likely to be the first in an annual series of UK-EU meetings, with progress on a security and defence agreement and measures to smooth trade the initial priorities, rather than detailed talks on a youth mobility scheme.

It is understood that the government is looking at dynamic alignment with EU regulations to remove checks at the borders and allow goods to flow more freely.

Mr Thomas-Symonds has also controversially suggested Britain would be prepared to allow EU fishermen to continue to enjoy access to UK waters when a five-year agreement expires in 2026. French demands over fishing rights have been a stumbling block to progress on issues including a defence pact.

The minister also left open the door to Britain continuing to align with EU rules in food standards and animal welfare, saying: We are not interested in divergence for divergences sake or a race to the bottom on standards.
Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

The government is facing a backlash after the business secretary suggested the UK should not be squeamish about selling arms to India amid escalating tensions with Pakistan.

India has launched missile strikes in what it says is a response to a terror attack in Kashmir that claimed 26 lives last month.

But Pakistans prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif, called the pre-dawn airstrikes an act of war and responded with shelling.

Just hours after the strikes, UK business secretary Jonathan Reynolds did not rule out supplying India with weapons.

open image in gallery A man looks at a damaged car after Indian strikes in Kotli, Pakistan-administered Kashmir ( EPA )

He said the UK would always be willing to talk to a fellow democracy if that was something they were interested in, although he added that military equipment was not a specific part of the trade deal the UK struck with India this week.

He told Sky News that Britain should not be squeamish about exporting our defence sector to other markets around the world, adding that the UK should be proud that weve got the capacity to defend ourselves.

Earlier, he told BBC Radio 4s Today programme that the situation in Kashmir was hugely worrying, adding that Britain is ready to support both India and Pakistan to de-escalate tensions following an exchange of fire between the two nations.

open image in gallery Business secretary Jonathan Reynolds ( PA Wire )

Labour MP Kim Johnson told The Independent: I find the business secretarys comments deeply troubling. You cannot voice concern over escalating tensions in Kashmir while simultaneously suggesting we should not be squeamish about selling arms to one side of the conflict. This position is morally incoherent and diplomatically reckless.

The UK must not be complicit in fuelling regional instability in pursuit of arms deals, especially in a context where human rights and international peace are at risk. Regardless of diplomatic ties, our standards for arms exports must be principled and not driven by commercial interests.

Labour MP John Trickett said: Britain needs to avoid exacerbating the already dangerous situation on the subcontinent by supplying arms. Furthermore, the idea of supplying arms to one side in a conflict situation clearly runs contrary to our national interest by risking serious diplomatic consequences from the other party.

Sir Keir Starmer has called on India and Pakistan to take steps to ease the rising tensions.

The prime minister said the UK encouraged dialogue, de-escalation and the protection of civilians.

Sir Keir told MPs: Rising tensions between India and Pakistan will be of serious concern for many across Britain.

We are engaging urgently with both countries as well as other international partners, encouraging dialogue, de-escalation and the protection of civilians.

British nationals in India and Pakistan have been urged by Foreign Office minister Hamish Falconer to stay up to date with UK government travel advice and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Mr Falconer told MPs this was an incredibly delicate moment in an evolving and fast-moving situation and added that civilian lives being lost in the conflict between Pakistan and India was heartbreaking.

The Department for Business and Trade has been approached for comment.
Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Sir Keir Starmer has hailed as a landmark an agreement to strike Britains biggest post-Brexit trade deal with India.

Ministers say the move which will see tariffs reduced on UK whisky, gin, cars and cosmetics, will boost trade by 25.5bn and add 4.8bn a year to the UK economy, as well as boosting wages by 2.2bn annually.

It comes as the prime minister hopes to secure a trade deal with the US, in a bid to offset some of Donald Trumps tariffs, which have triggered global economic chaos.

What will it mean for the whisky industry?

India is the biggest consumer of whisky worldwide by volume and UK sales to the country were worth more than 200 million a year in 2022. Under the new deal, tariffs on whiskies will initially be cut from 150 per cent to 75 per cent. But after ten years they are due to fall again to 40 per cent.

India is already among the largest export markets for Chivas Brothers, which includes brands such as Chivas Regal and Glenlivet, while Diageo, whose brands include Johnnie Walker, already has 50 manufacturing facilities across India.

The UK has struck a trade deal with India (Alamy/PA)

How has the whisky industry responded?

Very well.

Jean-Etienne Gourgues, the chairman and CEO of Chivas Brothers has called the agreement a welcome boost for his company during an uncertain global economic environment. He also said that greater access to the Indian market would be a game changer for the export of our Scotch whisky brands, such as Chivas Regal and Ballantines.

The deal will support investment and jobs in our distilleries and bottling plants in Scotland, he added.

Diageo chief executive Debra Crew described the deal as a huge achievement and said it would be transformational for Scotch and Scotland, while powering jobs and investment in both India and the UK.

What does it mean for the car industry?

British high-end cars will see their tariffs fall by a whopping 90 per cent under the plans. The added tax placed on them as they enter the country will plummet from more than 100 per cent to just 10 per cent under a quota.

Under the plans, the reform will start with cars with internal combustion engines but then move to electric and hybrid vehicles, to reflect how manufacturing in the UK is evolving.

Will the deal undercut British workers?

Ministers have denied the agreement undercuts British workers, after opposition politicians criticised part of the deal that exempts some temporary Indian workers from national insurance payments for three years.

On Wednesday, Jonathan Reynolds described the claim as completely false, telling the BBC: There is no situation where I would ever tolerate British workers being undercut through any trade agreement we would sign. That is not part of the deal.

The move is under what is known as the double contribution convention, which is designed to stop workers and employers paying twice, once in each country. It is also reciprocal, meaning any UK workers who work temporarily in India would pay no further taxes there and there are similiar agreements in place with other countries.

Will it offset the impact of Trumps tariffs?

In a word  no.

The US remains the largest key market for whisky by value, at an estimated 971 milliona year. Sir Keir Starmer hopes to secure a trade deal with the US soon - with officials suggesting it could happen this week - which would lessen the impact of Trumps tariffs, following weeks of talks.

This deal could include quotas that would exempt a certain number of UK exports from the full impact of 25 per cent tariffs on the British car and steel industry.

But no matter the carve out for individual UK sectors or Britain in general, the UK will still be forced to weather the havoc the US tariffs wreak on the global economy.
Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Cyber attacks on major UK retailers in recent weeks should be a wake-up call for firms across the country, a Cabinet minister will warn, as the Government unveils measures aimed at ramping up protections for British organisations.

Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Pat McFadden will tell tech experts and business chiefs that cybersecurity is not a luxury but an absolute necessity as he announces a 16 million package to boost defence at home and abroad.

Harrods became the latest high-profile UK retailer to fall victim to hacking last week, after a serious ransomware attack on Marks & Spencer forced the company to suspend online orders and halt recruitment.

The Co-op Group was also targeted, prompting it to shut down parts of its IT infrastructure.

In a speech at the CyberUK conference in Manchester, Mr McFadden will say: Cyber attacks are not a game. Not a clever exercise. They are serious organised crime. The purpose is to damage and extort.

The digital version of an old-fashioned shakedown, either straight theft or a protection racket where your business will be safe as long as you pay the gangsters.

What we have seen over the past couple of weeks should serve as a wake-up call for businesses and organisations up and down the UK, as if we needed one, that cybersecurity is not a luxury but an absolute necessity.

The Government is expected to unveil measures aimed at reinforcing systems against attack, including driving investment into CHERI, a magic chip that builds advanced memory protections in microprocessors.

Some 4.5 million will be spent helping firms bring the technology, which can block up to 70% of common cyber attacks, to market, the Cabinet Office said.

A new software security code of practice will also be published on Wednesday, outlining essential steps the Government believes every organisation developing or selling software should be taking to secure their products.

An extra 7 million for Britains Laboratory for AI Security Research will be confirmed, along with investment of 8 million in Ukrainian cyber defences and more than 1 million to protect Moldovan elections.

Mr McFadden will say: Ukraine has put up an incredibly brave fight against (Vladimir) Putins cyber warfare, and we have vowed to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Ukraine for as long as it takes to defend their sovereignty.

And so we are going to invest 8 million in the Ukraine Cyber Programme over the next year to continue to counter the Kremlins cyber aggression.

The senior Cabinet minister will say cyber will be a prime target for economic growth in the Governments upcoming industrial strategy.

There is enormous potential for cyber security to be a driving force in our economy  creating jobs, growth and opportunities for people. Its already a sector on the up  with over 2,000 businesses across the UK, he will say.

It is going to be a significant commitment, a vote of confidence in your sector, and one that will tell the world: the UK plans to be a global player in cybersecurity for decades to come.
Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Sir Keir Starmer is under growing pressure from his own MPs and political opponents to reverse his decision to strip 10 million pensioners of winter fuel payments.

The row has exploded after Reforms huge surge in the local elections last week, causing panic among many MPs that Nigel Farages party could win their seats.

But it has also fuelled speculation that the prime minister could soon be forced to reshuffle his cabinet, with question marks over whether Rachel Reeves can survive as chancellor.

One Labour source suggested: Rachel is running out of friends. It is just not working.

open image in gallery Keir Starmer is coming under increasing pressure from his own party ( PA )

Others have suggested that if Sir Keir is to reverse the decision on winter fuel cuts, Ms Reeves would need to be replaced first.

Questions remain over who would be a viable candidate to replace her in the Treasury, as another MP noted that Sir Keir has promised Ms Reeves will be chancellor until the next election. Meanwhile, Downing Street has continued to stand by the chancellor.

It comes as new polling from The Times and Sky News  conducted by YouGov  put Reform UK at its highest recorded vote share, sitting seven points ahead of Labour.

Mr Farages party was on 29 points, while Labour was on 22. Lagging behind were the Tories on just 17 points, while the Liberal Democrats were on 16.

The anger over the local election results and the fear of Reform seizing power at the next election has brought despair to many MPs.

One MP told The Independent: Im not exactly experiencing the sunny uplands at the moment.

Another darkly added: It feels very Weimar Republic at the moment. Post hyperinflation, but pre Nazi.

open image in gallery Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves speaking to a member of the media during a visit to the Glenkinchie Whisky Distillery in Tranent, East Lothian, to mark the UK-India trade deal ( PA )

Meanwhile, the red wall group of Labour MPs, made up of around 45 MPs from red wall constituencies, warned that Sir Keirs response that he would go further and faster in delivering his plans had fallen on deaf ears.

They warned that voters across the UK had told the Labour Party loudly and clearly that we have not met their expectations.

Responding to the issues raised by our constituents, including on winter fuel, isnt weak  it takes us to a position of strength, a statement added, urging the prime minister to break the disconnect between Westminster and the red wall areas.

The red wall is made up of areas in the Midlands and northern England which have typically supported the Labour Party.

One of the red wall MPs, Stoke-on-Trent Central MP Gareth Snell, came out publicly about his concerns. Raising issues of factories in his constituency closing, he told the BBC that his faith in the government is dwindling.

On Tuesday, the prime minister acknowledged his government needed to explain the decisions that weve taken after a disappointing set of election results, but his press secretary said the government will not be blown off course.

While there were reports that the government was considering whether to increase the 11,500 threshold over which pensioners are no longer eligible for the allowance, the prime ministers official spokesperson ruled out such a move, saying there will not be a change to the governments policy.

The spokesperson added that the decision was one that we had to take to ensure economic stability and repair the public finances following the 22bn black hole left by the previous government.

But there is mounting pressure from within his own party  and from the opposition benches  for Downing Street to U-turn on the issue.

Veteran Labour MP Diane Abbott urged the government to restore the winter fuel allowance in full, saying a review of the policy alone wouldnt be enough for pensioners, nor would it be enough to restore Labours battered reputation.

Meanwhile, Labour peer and Welsh first minister Eluned Morgan warned she is losing patience with UK Labour, urging the government to have a rethink.

And former transport secretary Louise Haigh said Labours unpopular decisions are overshadowing the good ones, calling for the party to explore a wealth tax to win back voters following Reform UKs success in the local elections.

Speaking to BBC Newsnight, the MP for Sheffield Heeley said: I dont think we can underestimate how catastrophic those results were last week for the Labour Party. I think the unpopular decisions are overshadowing the good ones.

open image in gallery Former transport secretary Louise Haigh says Labours unpopular decisions are overshadowing the good ones ( PA )

Labour MP for Leeds West, Richard Burgon, told Times Radio Labour cannot be stubborn on winter fuel payments, saying the policy was both deeply unpopular and wrong.

If the government wants to show that it actually gets it, in the words of the prime minister, then the government must fully reinstate the winter fuel allowance, not just tinker around the edges. And we cant be dragged, kicking and screaming, into rethinking on this policy, he said.

The issue blew up in Prime Ministers Questions on Wednesday with Tory leader Kemi Badenoch going on the attack while Labour MPs watched uncomfortably from the other side.

Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper also piled in, saying the governments refusal to change course was a completely tone deaf response to the local elections.

The public are rightly furious at the governments decision to rip vital support from millions of the most vulnerable, yet ministers simply are not listening, she said.

The decision last July to restrict the winter fuel payment to the poorest pensioners was intended to save around 1.5bn a year, with more than 9 million people who would have previously been eligible losing out.

But cabinet ministers acknowledged the winter fuel payment decision had hit the party at the ballot box.

Asked whether the cut had been part of Labours poor electoral performance, business secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: I think that has been a feature. I think the prime minister himself has said that, and were not sugar-coating those results; theyre very challenging for us.
Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Britain is said to be days away from to securing a trade deal with the US which would lessen the impact of Donald Trumps tariffs.

The UK has been in talks with the Trump administration as part of an attempt to agree a carve out from tariffs, which are wreaking havoc on the global economy.

Trade negotiators have returned to Washington this week and officials told the Financial Times that the trade deal could be agreed in the next few days.

It could include quotas that would exempt a certain number of UK exports from the full impact of 25 per cent tariffs on the British car and steel industry.

The UK is seeking a carve out from Donald Trumps tariffs ( AP )

In exchange, the officials claimed that the UK has offered concessions on Britains digital services tax, which hits major US tech firms including Meta and Amazon. The 2 per cent levy, which was introduced in 2020, raises about 800m a year for the UK.

The UK government is also said to have offered concessions on tariffs on US car exports, as well as a reduction of levies on American agricultural products.

But ministers have repeatedly insisted it will not compromise on food production standards, meaning it is unlikely to compromise on imports of chlorine-washed chicken and hormone-treated beef.

It comes just a day after US treasury secretary Scott Bessent said some trade deals  which the US is looking at signing with as many as 17 countries - could be announced perhaps as early as this week.

He said several countries have so far made good offers to the US, but declined to provide further details.

Any compromise on the digital services tax is likely to spark backlash, with Labour MPs last month warning the government to avoid a dash to let the US tech companies off the hook.

Left-wing Labour MP Rachael Maskell said she would be concerned if relief was granted to US tech firms while disabled people in the UK pay for the revenue loss through welfare cuts.

Meanwhile, Labour MP for Norwich South, Clive Lewis, added: This was entirely predictable given how desperate the government is to appease the Trump administration and tech oligarchs around it.

This is extractive politics at it worst and exactly the kind of deal the Maga [Make America Great Again movement] wants. Rather than move closer to Europe and stand together were allowing ourselves to be ripped off.

On Tuesday, the UK unveiled a 25bn trade agreement with India, which has lowered tariffs on UK exports including whisky, gin and cars as well as imports of clothing from India.

The government said the deal is estimated to add 4.8 billion to GDP per year from 2040.

But ministers were forced to deny the agreement undercuts British workers, after opposition politicians criticised part of the deal that exempts some temporary Indian workers from national insurance payments.

On Wednesday, Jonathan Reynolds described the claim as completely false, telling the BBC: There is no situation where I would ever tolerate British workers being undercut through any trade agreement we would sign. That is not part of the deal.

A government spokesperson said: The US is an indispensable ally and talks on an economic deal between the US and the UK are ongoing - but we are not going to provide a running commentary on the details of live discussions or set any timelines.

We will continue to take a calm and steady approach to talks and aim to find a resolution to help ease the pressure on UK businesses and consumers.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Two Belgian teenagers who were found with 5,000 ants in Kenya have been fined $7,700 or the option to serve 12 months in prison for violating wildlife conservation laws.

Belgian nationals Lornoy David and Seppe Lodewijckx, both 19, were arrested on April 5 and charged 10 days later after Kenyan authorities discovered the ants packed in test tubes at the guest house where they were staying.

Authorities said the ants were destined for European and Asian markets in an emerging trend of trafficking lesser-known wildlife species.

Magistrate Njeri Thuku, sitting at the court in Kenyas main airport, delivered her ruling on Wednesday.

She said that despite the teenagers telling the court they were naive and collecting the ants as a hobby, the particular species of ants they collected is valuable and they had thousands of them  not just a few.

The sentence is considered the maximum penalty for the offence.

Belgian nationals Lornoy David, left, and Seppe Lodewijckx, right ( AP )

The Kenya Wildlife Service had said the teenagers were involved in trafficking the ants to markets in Europe and Asia, and that the species included messor cephalotes, a distinctive, large and red-colored harvester ant native to East Africa.

The illegal export of the ants not only undermines Kenyas sovereign rights over its biodiversity but also deprives local communities and research institutions of potential ecological and economic benefits, KWS said in a statement.

Kenya has in the past fought against the trafficking of body parts of larger species of wild animals such as elephants, rhinos and pangolins among others. But the cases against the four men represent "a shift in trafficking trends  from iconic large mammals to lesser-known yet ecologically critical species, KWS said.

Philip Muruthi, a vice president for conservation at the Africa Wildlife Foundation in Nairobi, previously said the ants play the role of enriching soils, enabling germination and providing food for species such as birds.

The thing is, when you see a healthy forest, like Ngong forest, you dont think about what is making it healthy. It is the relationships all the way from the bacteria to the ants to the bigger things, he said.

Muruthi warned of the risk of trafficking species and exporting diseases to the agricultural industry of the destination countries.

Even if there is trade, it should be regulated and nobody should be taking our resources just like that, he said.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Two GiveSendGo fundraisers have been launched for the Temple University student who was suspended and accused of being involved in an antisemitic incident in a Philadelphia bar last weekend.

Mohammed Adnan Khan is accused of posting a video to his Instagram story showing a waitress inside the Barstool Sansom Street bar holding up a sign that read **** the Jews on May 3. Khan has also been accused of paying for the sign, which customers can order and choose a few words when ordering bottle service.

In the viral clip, which has been shared widely, college students are filmed standing as a waitress waves the sign in the air.

One of the fundraising pages, Justice for Mohammed Adnan Khan, was organized by Temple graduate and free speech advocate Alex Morris, hopes to raise $75,000 to cover Khans legal fees, public relations support, and mental health resources.

Since its creation, the page has received just over $600. Its listed target is $15,000.

A second page states that Mohammed Mo Khan organized it and that it has raised over $12,000 of its $25,000 goal. Khan later confirmed the authenticity of the page in a post on X.

open image in gallery Temple University said Mohammed Adnan Khan had been placed on interim suspension following the incident ( Getty/iStock )

Khan has posted a video on X where he claims he had nothing to do with the sign coming out.

Yet he acknowledged that the sign was provocative because it reminded people a lot of the unjust things that Israel is doing around the world.

The blurb on the crowdfunding page listed under Khans name is an almost word-for-word recount of the X video.

Meanwhile, the crowdfunding page set up by Morris maintains Khans innocence.

Mohammed made mistakeshe attended a bar, perhaps trusted the wrong crowdbut he is not a bigot. Hes a student who deserves the chance to prove his innocence. Lets ensure hate is met with accountability, but accusations are met with evidence.

Page organizer Morris is demanding due process for Khan after Temple University placed him on interim suspension.

At approximately 3 p.m., the university became aware of reports that Temple students were involved in an antisemitic incident at an off-campus location last night. This is deeply disturbing, and it is with profound regret that I must share this news with our community, a statement from TU president John Fry read Sunday.

In the strongest terms possible, let me be clear: antisemitism is abhorrent. It has no place at Temple, and acts of hatred and discrimination against any person or persons are not tolerated at this university.

Fry said the student affairs division was conducting an investigation into the incident.

Our Division of Student Affairs is conducting an investigation related to last nights incident, and they have identified one Temple student who is believed to have been involved. This individual has already been placed on interim suspension.

open image in gallery Portnoy posted two videos to X on Sunday in which he described the incident and said he was 'hunting down' those responsible. He later confirmed he had spoken to all those involved and had reached a 'fair' solution ( Dave Portnoy/X )

Fry said any students found to be involved would face strict disciplinary action, including expulsion.

Moreover, the fundraiser page wrote that the universitys decision isnt justiceits a witch hunt.

Owner of the club, Dave Portnoy, who is Jewish, took to social media Tuesday to state that the two female members of staff who were carrying the sign were promptly fired the next day, as per a video on X and a statement on Instagram.

He said he had also offered to send Khan and his friends to Europe to visit Auschwitz, a former Nazi Germany death camp, so that they could reflect on their actions and hopefully come out as better men.

The incident occurred at a time when tensions have been boiling over the international response to Israels bombardment of Gaza and President Donald Trump's pledge to crack down on antisemitism in universities.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Several victims injured in the Clearwater Ferry crash in Florida have hired a lawyer as they dispute some of the claims regarding the crash.

On April 27, a 37-foot private vessel, with six passengers on board, plowed into the stern of the 40-foot passenger ferry carrying 45 people back from the Sugar Sand Festival, Florida authorities said. One passenger Jose Castro, 41, of Palm Harbor, Florida  died in the crash, and 10 more were injured.

It was declared a mass casualty event by officials at the scene. An investigation is still underway.

The driver of the 37-foot boat, Jeffrey Knight, 62, has vehemently denied responsibility in several letters filed by his attorney to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission. He also stood down from his role at a local music venue out of respect for the victims.

However, in the days after the crash, the Clearwater Police Department released a video capturing the moment Knights boat slammed into the ferry from behind, landing across the majority of the vessel's stern.

open image in gallery One man died and 10 were injured when a private boat plowed into the passenger ferry on April 25 ( Tampa Bay Times )

Knight has not been charged, and investigators are now trying to determine whether he remained at the scene long enough to avoid an on-water hit-and-run charge, reports the Tampa Bay Times.

His lawyer, J. Kevin Hayslett, insists his client remained at the scene and tried to assist passengers after the collision.

He also said two days after the crash, that in the moments before the collision, the captain and many passengers were distracted by dolphins in the area, diminishing navigational awareness.

Injury law firm Morgan & Morgan wrote a statement on behalf of the several ferry victims who hired them to investigate: All Floridians know that operating a boat on the open water comes with the crucial responsibility to ensure the safety of all those around you. What should have been a routine trip home from the beach turned into a grisly nightmare last week, and Morgan & Morgan has been retained by several victims to investigate the collision.

We plan to uncover any negligence that may have contributed to this crash and are exploring every possible avenue to achieve justice for the passengers hurt in this incident.

open image in gallery The driver of the 37-foot boat, Jeffrey Knight, 62, has vehemently denied responsibility despite video showing him crashing into the ferry. ( Tampa Bay Times )

Marcos Pacheco and Brenda Alvarez, who was just shy of being eight months pregnant, were traveling with their 3-year-old daughter when they were injured in the crash.

You can say that we were distracted by dolphins, but you couldnt see our ferry? Pacheco told the Bay Times.

Its almost insulting the blame is being put on us  the passengers  when we were the ones who were hit, we were the ones who were hurt. There was somebody who died on the ferry because of this accident, and theres no apologies, just blame being thrown at us, he added.

Florida authorities said that Knight voluntarily submitted to a breathalyzer test and no alcohol was detected in his system. He did not submit to a blood test.

Tampa attorney Stephen Barnes, who is representing six more ferry victims, also detailed the case, as WFLA reported.

Its not just who did or didnt have lights on, he said.

My understanding is that Mr. Knights vessel was overtaking the ferry, and theres a very specific rule of the road that says if youre overtaking another vessel, you have to give right of away. He had responsibilities irrespective of whose lights were or werent on.

Three of Knights passengers have also written sworn letters to investigators, claiming the channel was really dark and the crash came out of nowhere.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A Florida woman was killed after she and her husband inadvertently paddled over an alligator while out canoeing, which tipped them both into the water before the fatal attack.

Officials from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said that the incident happened on Tuesday afternoon near the mouth of Tiger Creek at Lake Kissimmee.

The couples canoe had passed over the creature, which thrashed, tipping them into the water, FWC major Evan Laskowski told reporters at a press conference on Wednesday.

The 61-year-old woman had landed on top of the animal and was bitten, he said, adding that her husband had tried to intervene, but was unsuccessful.

open image in gallery Officials from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said that on Tuesday afternoon a woman was attacked and killed by an alligator near the mouth of Tiger Creek at Lake Kissimmee ( Google Maps )

In radio transmissions from the Polk County Sheriffs Office, obtained by WKMG, an official is heard to say, The gator grabbed her out of the canoe. [Her husband] tried to fight the gator off.

Were at the last place he saw her. He left the paddle here, where he last saw her, they added.

The womans body was later spotted by a sheriffs office helicopter, and members of the FWC recovered her from the water.

Later that night, a contracted nuisance alligator trapper captured an 114 inch alligator, which matched the description involved in the incident.

open image in gallery The FWC says that despite the tragic incident, attacks on humans are still extremely rare ( Getty Images )

On Wednesday, a second alligator measuring between 10 and 11 feet long, was also captured.

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether either of the alligators were responsible for the attack.

"Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this tragedy, FWC executive director Roger Young said at Wednesdays press conference.

While alligator attacks that result in fatalities are extremely rare, this serves as a somber reminder of the powerful wildlife that share our public spaces.

Second time in two months that an alligator has attacked a civilian. WKMG reports that in March a woman was bitten on the arm at the same creek.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A devoted Donald Trump fan was thrown out of a Crunch Fitness in Madison, Wisconsin, after cops said he screamed and cursed at other members trying to work out, but the aggrieved member  who is now suing the chain  believes his banishment stems from the Trump hat he sometimes donned while there.

Michael Green filed a federal lawsuit against Fitness Ventures, LLC, a Crunch franchisee with locations in 27 U.S. states, claiming he was discriminated against for being a Trump supporter  not for causing a disturbance, as a police report obtained by The Independent shows.

I still don't understand exactly what happened, but I'm thinking someone at the gym had a perceived issue with me and decided to weaponize the police against me, Greens March 31 complaint states. I had been wearing a pro-Trump hat during prior gym visits but stopped due to the stares I would get from staff and members Perhaps it was some kind of retaliation for being a Trump supporter, even worse a [B]lack Trump supporter in Dane County.

Green, 42, believes Crunch violated the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by engaging in discriminatory practices against him. He is seeking $75,000 for his alleged troubles, writing in his self-filed complaint, $75,000 is enough that may provide a deterrent from similar behavior in the future.

open image in gallery Green claims his Trump merch got him thrown out of two gyms ( Getty Images )

Two weeks before filing suit against Crunch, Green sued another Madison health club over similar allegations, again representing himself pro se, claiming he had been discriminated against for show[ing] my support of our president by wearing different types of Trump apparel such as hats, book bags, tee shirts, etc. He was also removed from that gym by police for allegedly harassing the manager, a Democrat, over her political leanings.

In a phone call on Wednesday, Green told The Independent that the hat in question at Crunch read: Trump 2024.

I had stopped wearing it, but they had already pegged me as a Trump guy, Green said.

Over the course of 40 minutes, Green, who said he voted for Trump in 2024, railed against DEI initiatives, the transgender community, and the liberals he insisted were responsible for pushing him into the presidents arms.

Im not a cult follower, its just living in that area, them telling me that hes bad that made me say, OK, well, Im gonna vote for him then, Green said.

Fitness Ventures, LLC executives did not respond to requests for comment.

open image in gallery Two weeks before he sued Crunch, Michael Green sued another local gym over a near-identical allegation ( Getty Images )

Greens beef stems from an encounter at Crunch on March 30, according to his complaint. While there, his complaint states, he was approached by a staff member and two Madison Police officers.

The staff member said that I was being aggressive to gym members, Greens complaint goes on. I still have no clue what exactly is going on, the staff member was extremely vague. I was drenched in sweat so I asked If I could use the shower before I left, the staff member told me I could not so I went into the locker room to change clothes as quickly as I could.

Upon leaving the locker room, Green was confronted by 6-10 madison [sic] police officers, his complaint continues. I asked them what was going on, they explained they were called to make sure I left the premises. I left as instructed.

Once he was out of the building, Green realized he had forgotten some of his belongings at the gym, his complaint says. So, as cops were still on the scene, Green called Crunch and asked a staffer to give his things to the officers so he could get them back, according to the complaint.

But, it says, the police soon left, and the Crunch employee told Green to meet him at the gym entrance to pick up his stuff.

open image in gallery Green insisted that widespread anti-Trump sentiment pushed him to become a Trump supporter ( AFP via Getty Images )

While walking towards the gym I flagged down a Madison Police officer and asked them If they could get my items instead of me approaching the gym, Greens complaint states. [T]he officer agreed.

Green then called the gym to tell the staff member that police would be coming back instead of him, according to his complaint. During that call, Green complained about the vulgar, racist, stereotyping rap music Crunch plays, which, the complaint asserts, paints African-Americans in a fictional[,] terrible light.

The staffer followed up by denigrating Black people, to which Green responded with a homophobic slur, says the complaint.

Green sued the next day. To him, the banishment from Crunch was tied directly to his Trump headwear, Green said on Wednesday.

However, an incident report shared with The Independent by a Madison Police Department spokeswoman tells a different story. Officers were dispatched on March 30 to Crunch after an employee called the cops about a gym member  Green  who was allegedly causing a disturbance, and asked to have police standing by when staffers ejected him, according to the report.

Green reportedly had approached other gym members and screamed and cursed at them because he wanted to use their exercise equipment, the report states. It says these members asked the manager to have Green removed, but did not wish to press charges against him.

open image in gallery Although Green claims he was tossed out of Crunch over his support for Donald Trump, seen here campaigning in Green Bay, Wisconsin, police tell a different story ( Getty Images )

According to the incident report, only two officers responded to the call, not the half-dozen or more mentioned in Greens complaint. They escorted Green to the locker room and stood outside as he gathered his belongings, the report explains. The officers instructed Green not to return to Crunch for the remainder of the day, after which Green was seen walking away toward a nearby mall, according to the report.

The case is closed on our end, the Madison police spokeswoman told The Independent.

Last month, a woman claimed she had been kicked out of an Indianapolis bar for wearing a MAGA hat; the bar said she had been harassing an employee. Last year, two women were removed from a British Airways flight after trading punches over a Trump hat one was wearing. Things have also gone the other way for people sporting Trump merch  in October, former Pittsburgh Steelers running back LeVeon Bell claimed to have gotten out of a speeding ticket thanks to a cop who spotted his MAGA hat and let him go.

In his complaint, Green declares Dane County, where Madison is located, to be extremely liberal, and derides its residents as biased against those on the right.

The anger I feel about this can only be overshadowed by an overall sense of sadness, Greens complaint concludes. I don't believe this to be a Crunch or Fitness Venture issue as it's more a Dane County issue.

Dane County is not named as a defendant in Greens suit.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A second U.S. Navy jet from the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier has been lost in the Red Sea, the second jet to be lost from the carrier in just eight days, sources have said.

The pilot and weapons systems officer were forced to eject after officials said the F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jets tail hook failed to catch the stopping wire at 9:45 p.m. Tuesday and suffered an arrestment failure as it attempted to land on the carrier.

Both aviators survived the incident but suffered minor injuries, said several people familiar with the matter to CNN.

Meanwhile, sources told the network that the Houthis took a shot at the Truman Tuesday, despite President Donald Trump announcing a ceasefire with the group hours earlier.

The carrier, which is usually stationed at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, was deployed in the Red Sea eight months ago to defend against threats to shipping vessels by the Iran-backed Houthi rebel group.

open image in gallery Two U.S. Navy jets have gone missing in the Red Sea over a space of eight days, said sources familiar with the matter

Based on initial reporting, an official said the tail hook failed to catch the arresting wire, designed to slow down the aircraft. The plane continued to accelerate toward the bow and subsequently plunged into the water, according to NBC News.

The jet has still not been recovered after the crash, and an investigation is underway.

Just over a week prior, another fighter jet, an F/A-18E Super Hornet worth $67 million, fell into the water from the carrier and was considered lost.

A U.S. Navy statement on 28 April said: The F/A-18E was actively under tow in the hangar bay when the move crew lost control of the aircraft. The aircraft and tow tractor were lost overboard, a statement read on April 28.

One sailor sustained a minor injury.

Sailors towing the aircraft took immediate action to move clear of the aircraft before it fell overboard. An investigation is underway, it continued.

open image in gallery The Houthi rebels began hijacking commercial ships in November 2023 and managed to sink two vessels, seize a third and kill four crew members

Trump spoke about the ceasefire inside the Oval Office on Tuesday.

[The Houthis] just dont want to fight, and we will honour that and we will stop the bombings, and they have capitulated, Trump said, while he sat alongside Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in the White House.

Officials have not said whether the missing jet incidents are related.

The Houthi rebels began hijacking commercial ships in November 2023 and have since managed to sink two vessels, seize a third, and kill four crew members.

US-led naval forces have managed to thwart several attacks.

The Independent contacted the U.S. Navy for comment.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Former President Joe Biden rebuked Donald Trumps handling of Vladimir Putin and Russias conflict with Ukraine as modern-day appeasement in his first interview since leaving the White House in January.

The Democrat sat for a wide-ranging interview with the BBC in Delaware this week, addressing the current state of global affairs and his thoughts on his successor.

Biden responded with blistering criticism when pressed for his opinion on Trumps behavior since taking office, including the presidents threats against Greenland, making Canada the 51st state, talking about acquiring the Panama Canal, and renaming the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America.

What the hells going on here? What president ever talks like that? he told the Today programs Nick Robinson. Thats not who we are. Were about freedom, democracy, opportunity, not about confiscation.

Speaking about Ukraine, the former president said that his administration supplied the nation with everything they needed to provide for their independence, adding that the U.S. was prepared to offer support if Putin further escalated the war. Trump had previously argued that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had played Biden like a fiddle.

open image in gallery Former President Joe Biden sat for a wide-ranging interview with the BBC in Delaware this week, his first since leaving office ( BBC/Radio 4 Today )

Biden also condemned the Trump administration for suggesting that Ukraine would have to cede some territory to Russia in order to secure a peace deal and end the conflict.

It is modern-day appeasement, Biden said, referencing the policy of former British prime minister Neville Chamberlain, a diplomacy strategy that attempted to agree to Adolf Hitlers short-term demands to avoid all-out war breaking out, which failed.

Biden said anybody who believes Putin is going to stop the conflict if Ukrainian territory is conceded is just foolish.

I just dont understand how people think that if we allow a dictator, a thug, to decide hes going to take significant portions of land that arent his, that thats going to satisfy him, he said of the Russian president. I dont quite understand.

Tensions between Washington and Kyiv exploded in late February when Zelensky was ambushed by Trump and Vice President JD Vance in the Oval Office.

Talks that began more cordially devolved into a furious shouting match with Trump accusing the Ukrainian leader of gambling with World War III, and Zelensky initially leaving without a minerals deal needed to secure U.S. help in ending the war.

I found it sort of beneath America in the way that took place, Biden said.

open image in gallery Biden (left), speaking with the BBCs Nick Robinson, shared his thoughts on the Trump administrations handling of Russias war with Ukraine ( BBC/Radio 4 Today )

Biden, the last living U.S. president to be born during World War II, shared his fears about NATO dying out and U.S. withdrawal under the Trump administration. Trump has repeatedly stated that the U.S. is being ripped off by its allies and Vance said that America continues to bail out Europe.

I think it would change the modern history of the world if that occurs, he said. Were the only nation in a position to have the capacity to bring people together, [to] lead the world. Otherwise, youre going to have China and the former Soviet Union, Russia, stepping up.

Biden argued that he didnt think it would have mattered if he had decided to drop out of the race for the White House sooner amid concerns over his cognitive acuity in the summer of 2024.

Speaking about dropping out of the race and allowing his Vice President Kamala Harris to take his place to take on Trump in the November election, Biden remained bullish.

We left at a time when we had a good candidate. Things moved so quickly that it made it difficult to walk away, he said. And it was a hard decision. I think it was the right decision. I think that it was just a difficult decision.

Reflecting on Trumps return to office, which has seen the president issue a flurry of executive orders, dismantle federal departments and foment a global trade war, Biden attempted to draw comparisons from when he left office and now.

Our economy was growing. We were moving in a direction where the stock market was way up, he said. We were in a situation where we were expanding our influence around the world in a positive way, increasing trade.

Trump boasted of his very special first 100 days in office before he listed off his administrations efforts in a so-called achievement speech during the largest rally of his second term in Michigan late last month.

When pressed on Trump 2.0, Biden said: I dont see anything that was triumphant.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

President Donald Trump slammed his predecessor, former President Barack Obama, and his Chicago Presidential Center during his meeting with the new Canadian Prime Minister, Mark Carney.

Trump referred to the project as a disaster, and blamed woke construction workers.

The meeting between Trump and Carney in the Oval Office focused mostly on tariffs and the shaky relationship between Canada and the U.S.

Responding to Trumps comments about making Canada the 51st U.S. state, Carney said his country is not for sale and wont be for sale, ever.

Meanwhile, Trump said the U.S.-Canadian border was artificial, and doggedly suggested once again that Canada join the U.S.

Trump blasted the construction of the Obama Presidential Library during an Oval Office meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney

But Trump also slipped in a few digs about the Obama Presidential Library, which is currently under construction in Jackson Park in Chicago.

"I mean, look, President Obama  and if he wanted help, I'd give him help because I build on time and on budget  he's building his presidential library in Chicago. It's a disaster," said Trump. "And he said something to the effect, 'I only want DEI, I only want woke.' He wants woke people to build it. Well, he got woke people, and they have massive cost overruns, the job is stopped. I don't know, it's a disaster."

It wasnt clear what exactly Trump meant by woke, but he said the Obama project construction workers werent mean enough. Trump used undocumented Polish construction workers in New York before he first became president, according to court testimony. He paid $1 million to settle labor complaints in 1998.

The Obama Foundation website states that impressive strides have been made to finish the presidential center, and the organization says it is doing so while working to build an environmentally friendly campus.

In last months construction update, the foundation outlined how exterior glass is being installed at Home Court, which is being described as a 45,000-square foot multipurpose space.

Meanwhile, granite work is being done on the Forum Building, which will host community activity and engagement.

The two courtyards will bring light and green space to the building, the foundation states.

Installation of the museum exhibits has started, which will be an immersive experience outlining the history of Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama and their role in democratic progress.

The update stated that dozens of energy-efficient plans are being enacted on the campus.

Trump blasted the project as "millions of dollars, like many, many  I mean, really, millions of dollars over budget.

He claimed the issues stemmed from Obama wanting to be very politically correct and he didn't use good, hard, tough, mean construction workers that I love.

"He wanted people that, like, never did it before, and he's got a disaster on his hands," he said.

An Obama Foundation spokesperson told CBS News that Trumps comments were baseless and that he was speaking about "a relatively common dispute between two subcontractors over work that has already been completed.

"Everyone who sees the Obama Presidential Center is blown away by its beauty, scale, and the way it will be an economic engine for Chicago and a beacon of hope for the world," the foundation said. "We look forward to welcoming all visitors to the 19.3-acre campus next spring, to experience a presidential center that not only honors the Obamas' legacy but also lifts up the next generation of leaders."
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

President Donald Trumps nominee to head the powerful U.S. Attorneys Office in Washington, D.C. has hit a roadblock in the Senate after a key Republican said he would not vote in favor of the controversial nominee.

The president has nominated Ed Martin, a conservative lawyer who supported Trumps Stop the Steal movement in 2020, advocated for lesser sentencing for January 6 defendants, appeared on Russian state media networks multiple times and used social media to threaten critics of Elon Musk.

Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina told reporters on Tuesday that he informed the White House he would not support Martins nomination after meeting with the conservative lawyer on Monday evening.

Most of my concerns are related to Jan. 6, Tillis said.

open image in gallery Ed Martin supported Donald Trumps efforts to overturn the 2020 election result ( Getty Images )

Since becoming interim head of the U.S. Attorneys Office, Martin has fired or demoted federal prosecutors who worked on cases against January 6 rioters and opened investigations into the decisions that led to bringing charges against defendants.

Tillis said he understood Martins perspective that some January 6 defendants were overly prosecuted, but he did not believe most of them should have received a pardon, which Trump bestowed on them after taking office.

"If Mr. Martin were being put forth as a U.S. attorney for any district except the district where Jan. 6 happened, the protest happened, Id probably support him, but not in this district, Tillis said.

Without Tilliss vote, the Senate Judiciary Committee would be deadlocked in an 1111 vote, assuming Democrats would vote against Martin.

open image in gallery Senator Thom Tillis said his objections related to January 6. Martin has fired or demoted federal prosecutors who worked on cases against pro-Trump rioters ( Getty Images )

Martins nomination was not included on the committees schedule this week. When asked why, Chairman and Senator Chuck Grassley said, "I want to put people on the agenda that I can help the president be successful in his nominees.

Its unclear if Trump will pull Martins nomination.

A spokesperson for the White House told the New York Times, Ed Martin is a fantastic U.S. attorney for D.C. and will continue to implement the presidents law-and-order agenda in Washington. He is the right man for the job and we look forward to his confirmation.

open image in gallery Martin has also appeared on Russian state television ( US Attorney's Office, District of Columbia )

Martins nomination has caused a stir in Washington.

More than 100 former federal prosecutors who worked in the U.S. Attorneys Office for D.C. signed a letter expressing concerns over Martin, who they believe is unworthy of the position, incapable of the task, and an affront to the singular pursuit of justice.

While some have complained that Martin may have a conflict of interest in Jan 6 cases, the Office of Disciplinary Counsel declined to investigate as, while saying it was unseemly for Martin to appear for the DoJ in the matter because there is no rule prohibiting lawyers from giving the appearance of impropriety.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

President Donald Trump offered to serve as a mediator between India and Pakistan after their respective armed forces exchanged volleys of conventional weapons in an escalation of a long-running conflict that has raised the chance of escalation by the two nuclear-armed states.

Trump told reporters Wednesday in the Oval Office during a swearing-in ceremony for the new American ambassador to China David Purdue, that the latest skirmish has been so terrible and expressed confidence in his own ability to settle the dispute based on the fact that he has good personal relations with both nations.

My position is I get along with both. I know both very well, and I want to see them work it out. I want to see them stop, and hopefully they can stop now, he said.

The presidents comments came less than a day after Indian jets conducted airstrikes into Pakistani territory in retaliation for last months deadly terror attack by militants in Kashmir, the disputed border region controlled by India.

President Donald Trump speaks to reporters after David Perdue was sworn in as U.S. Ambassador to China. During his discussion he addressed the ongoing Palestine-India conflict. ( AP )

Pakistani officials said at least 21 died in the airstrikes, just four fewer than were killed in the Kashmir attack that was carried out by militants armed with rifles. The Indian government blames Islamabad for allegedly supporting insurgent movements in the heavily-militarized border region.

Trump expressed hope the Indian airstrikes would serve to end this latest round of skirmishing between the countries, which fought limited wars in 1947 and 1965.

They've gotten tit for tat, so hopefully they can stop now ... we get along with both the countries very well, good relationships with both. And I want to see it stop. And if I can do anything to help, I will, I will be there, he said.

The recent hostilities between India and Pakistan have raised the once-unthinkable possibility of two nuclear-armed states exchanging fire with thermonuclear weapons.

Neither country is a signatory to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, and India has been a declared nuclear power since 1974 when it detonated its first nuclear weapons test.

Pakistans government had begun developing nuclear weapons two years earlier after losing control of Bangladesh (formerly East Pakistan) in a civil war. That effort finally bore fruit in 1998 when Pakistan detonated five underground nuclear tests in response to an Indian nuclear weapons test several weeks earlier.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

JD Vance denied that a rift had been driven between the United States and Europe despite the vice presidents own repeated broadsides against Americas traditional ally.

The vice president spoke in a moderated discussion with Wolfgang Ischinger, the head of the Munich Security Conference, on Wednesday in Washington, D.C., three months after he made waves at the organizations conference in Germany.

I think it's completely ridiculous to think that you're ever going to be able to drive a firm wedge between the United States and Europe, Vance said. It doesn't mean that Europeans won't criticize the United States, the United States won't criticize Europe, but I do think fundamentally we have to be and we are on the same civilizational team.

The discussion came at a crucial moment for President Donald Trump, as the United States seeks to broker an end to Russias war in Ukraine. So far, the United States has threatened to walk away from peace talks, while Trump has harshly criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Vice President JD Vance spoke to the Munich Security Defense and sought to downplay talks of a rift between the United States and Europe ( Getty Images )

What I would say is, right now, the Russians are asking for a certain set of requirements, a certain set of concessions in order to end the conflict, we think they're asking for too much, he said.

Ischinger mentioned Vances speech he made back in February in Munich, where he harshly criticized European immigration policy and accused Europe of retreating from some of its most fundamental values, questioning its commitment to free speech and its election integrity.

Vance further aggravated Europeans when in a Fox News interview, he criticized the idea of a peacekeeping force in Ukraine. He said the best path forward to peace was to give the United States an economic upside in Ukraine, calling it way better security guarantee than 20,000 troops from some random country that hasnt fought a war in 20 or 30 years.

His comments were widely interpreted as referencing Britain and France. Troops from both countries served alongside the U.S. in Afghanistan, and British forces also took part in the war in Iraq. France lost 86 troops in Afghanistan, while Britain lost 454 in Afghanistan and 179 in Iraq. Amid uproar in Europe  which saw British tabloids label him a clown and JD Dunce  Vance said it was absurdly dishonest to say he meant to insult the United Kingdom and France.

During his speech on Wednesday, the vice president stressed the need for the US-European alliance.

In Munich, Vance accuses European politicians of censoring free speech

I still think that this European Alliance is very important, but I think that for it to be important and for us to be real friends with each other, and I think that we are very much real friends, we've got to talk about the big question, he said.

"I think that it means that all of us, frankly, on both sides of the Atlantic, have gotten a little bit too comfortable with the security posture of the last 20 years, and that, frankly, that security posture is not adequate to meet the challenges of the next 20 years.

He also repeated Trumps calls for European countries to contribute more to their own defense.

It's not just spending money, as important as that is. It's making sure that the same economic engine that powered first world living standards is actually geared towards producing, God forbid, weapons of war, if those weapons of war are ever necessary, he said.

JD Vance Taunts NATO At Munich Summit; European Leaders In Shock

I think this is an area where we're fundamentally right, and I think it's gratifying to see so many of our European friends recognize that and recognize that Europe does really have to play a bigger role in continental defense.

He defended Trumps decision to levy across-the-board tariffs against Europe. In the same way that American markets have been open to a lot of European goods, we'd like a lot of European markets to be open to American goods, he said.

Vance said that Trump only enacted his liberation day tariffs that disrupted global markets 30 days ago. So we are in the early innings of a very significant shift, he said. I think that shift is going to really endure to the benefit of both the United States, but also of Europe, but fundamentally it has to happen.

Vance has served as something of Trumps attack dog on the global stage, being one of the presidents point people on trade deals with Europe and the United Kingdom. At the same time, he also clashed with Prime Minister Keir Starmer about Europes free speech laws.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Senior Trump adviser Kari Lake announced that shed struck a deal with One America News to blast the right-wing channels pro-Trump propaganda out to the audience of Voice of America, making it clear what her intentions are for the government-run radio network.

United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM) is excited to announce a partnership with One America News Network (OAN) to provide newsfeed services to USAGM networks, including Office of Cuba Broadcasting (OCB), Radio Marti, and Voice of America (VOA), Lake posted Tuesday on social media.

Noting that OAN was offering their newsfeed and video service free-of-charge, Lake acknowledged that while she may not have editorial control over VOA content in her role as senior adviser to the agency, she can ensure our outlets have reliable and credible options as they work to craft their reporting and news programs.

And every day I look for ways to save American taxpayers money. Bringing in OAN as a video/news source does both, she added. OAN is one of the few family-owned American media networks left in the United States. We are grateful for their generosity.

Lake did not immediately respond to requests for comment. OAN President Charles Herring, who also retweeted the Trump officials post about the partnership, told The Independent that Ms. Lake provided a complete summary.

open image in gallery Presidential adviser Kari Lake is looking to fulfill a court order to restore Voice of America to the airwaves by filling the broadcasts with OAN content. ( AP )

The new partnership with one of the presidents most loyal media outlets comes just days after Lake informed VOA staffers that she would be implementing a structured return-to-office plan.

We look forward to working with you all, she wrote on Friday to the workforce she had sidelined in March.

A day after Lakes email, which was triggered after a federal judge halted the Trump administrations efforts to shut down VOA, an appellate court complicated matters by pausing the lower courts ruling. At the same time, the appeals court did state that it was leaving in place the judges ruling that the government must reinstate VOAs statutorily required programming levels.

It would appear that Lake is looking to use OAN to fill that void now, which has left current and former staff enraged.

Kari Lake providing One America News Network to our global audiences makes a mockery of the agency's history of independent non-partisan journalism, former United States Agency for Global Media Chief Financial Officer Grant Turner told NPR.

I don't think this complies with our statutory mandate and I don't think audiences will take to it, he added. The truth has a certain feel and audiences can sense that.

VOA White House bureau chief Patsy Widakuswara and press freedom editor Jessica Jerreat, who are part of the group of employees who sued Lake and the administration for violating the law by trying to shutter the network, also criticized the OAN announcement.

Congress mandated VOA to report reliable and authoritative news, not outsource its journalism to outlets aligned with the president's agenda, they said in a joint statement to The Independent. VOA already has talented and professional journalists ready to tell America's story in line with the VOA Charter, but we are blocked from our own newsroom. That is why we will continue fighting for our rights in court.

While the journalists remain sidelined following the presidents mid-March executive order, which prompted Lake to silence the networks broadcasts and place the entire workforce on indefinite leave, staffers told NPR that the government has started bringing some VOA employees back.

open image in gallery Voice of Americas broadcasts could soon feature digraced former GOP congressman and one-time Trump attorney general pick, who was recently hired by the MAGA network as a primetime host. ( One America News )

According to three Voice of America staffers who remain on forced leave, the agency asked a small number of journalists back on Tuesday. At the same time, contractors are beginning to receive termination notices, NPR reported. Additionally, two sources corroborated this account to The Independent.

In the appellate courts ruling, which Lake celebrated as a BIG WIN, two Trump-appointed judges said the lower court overstepped its bounds and that the dispute over VOA should be settled through administrative processes before any legal action is taken. The lone dissenter, an Obama-appointed judge, argued that it wasnt within the presidents authority to dismantle VOA.

At the same time, the government has not objected to the lower courts ruling that required VOA programming to be returned to the airwaves, an order that the appeals court upheld. It would now appear that Lake plans to use the MAGA conspiracy channel to fulfill those obligations.

OAN, which has been booted from nearly every major cable and satellite subscription service, was one of the biggest purveyors of Trumps baseless conspiracy theories that the 2020 election was stolen from him.

The network has settled multiple defamation lawsuits over its promotion of falsehoods about the 2020 election, which includes voting software company Smartmatic, two election workers in Georgia, and a former executive for voting machine firm Dominion. OAN is still facing a defamation case from Dominion, which the outlet baselessly accused of rigging the election for Joe Biden.

Despite the network being nearly impossible to find on cable airwaves, OAN has seen its profile rise after Trumps return to office. While its reporters have been featured more prominently in press briefings and gaggles at the White House, Matt Gaetz  the presidents disgraced initial pick for attorney general  serves as one of the channels primetime hosts.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Attorney General Pam Bondi dismissed allegations that the Jeffrey Epstein files are missing, stating that the FBI is reviewing tens of thousands of videos featuring the disgraced financier with children.

Republican Rep. James Comer said on conservative commentator Benny Johnsons show that he believes the Justice Department doesnt have the Epstein files. I hope theyre not shredding documents right now, the Kentucky Congressman said.

Citing Comers remarks, a reporter asked Bondi on Wednesday morning whether the documents were missing, to which she said: No, the FBI, theyre reviewing tens of thousands of videos of Epstein with children or child porn.

The FBI is diligently going through that, she continued, noting the large volume of files. She added: There are hundreds of victims.

On the campaign trail, Donald Trump committed to releasing the documents related to the disgraced financier, who was accused of sex trafficking of minors. Epstein died behind bars in 2019 awaiting his sex trafficking trial.

The attorney generals update comes after questions have swirled in recent weeks over when the next batch of Epstein files would be released.

Pam Bondi says FBI is diligently reviewing Epstein files after being asked whether they were missing ( AP )

Bondi released the first phase of declassified files on February 27. Last week, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt fielded a question about when the bulk of the files are expected to be released, to which she said she doesnt have a specific timeline.

I can assure you that the Attorney General and her team are working on this diligently, Leavitt said, before calling Bondi a bulldog.

Last month, a reporter asked Trump when the public could expect to see the release of more documents. He said he wasnt sure but that hed speak to the attorney general for more information.

I do know that weve done the RFK, the Kennedy, Martin Luther King is out there very shortly, so well find out, Trump added. Weve really announced were doing them in full transparency.

The release of the first tranche of documents was met with some disappointment, even from Trumps MAGA allies.

Florida Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna raged on X: THIS IS NOT WHAT WE OR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE ASKED FOR and a complete disappointment. GET US THE INFORMATION WE ASKED FOR!

Far-right activist Laura Loomer also slammed: There is one person who takes the blame for what happened today. Its @PamBondi. She wrote: I think she should resign. She went on Fox News and said the files were on her desk. Then she went on Fox News last night and said we would have files today. She is a total liar.

Bondis remarks also come weeks after one of Epsteins most outspoken victims, Virginia Giuffre, died by suicide in Australia last week.

Her father later told journalist Piers Morgan that he believes somebody got to her.

I believed everything she said, Sky Roberts, her father, said. She was my daughter.

If you are based in the U.S. and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call the National Suicide Prevention Helpline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). This is a free, confidential crisis hotline available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.

If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can also speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A New York-based federal appeals court has ordered Donald Trumps administration to transfer Tufts University scholar Rumeysa Ozturk from an immigration detention center in Louisiana to Vermont.

The case of Ozturk, a Turkish international student and former Fulbright scholar working towards her doctorate in child development, is among several high-profile cases at the center of the Trump administrations targeting of international students for their advocacy for Palestine during Israels war in Gaza.

In March, Ozturks visa was revoked and she was arrested and detained by plain-clothes federal agents outside her apartment in Massachusetts in what her lawyers argue is a retaliatory attempt to deport her over an op-ed she wrote in a student newspaper.

The government has one week to transfer her, according to Wednesdays order, which arrived less than 24 hours after a hearing in which government attorneys failed to say whether they even agree with the administrations position that her pro-Palestine speech is not constitutionally protected.

Appellate Judge Barrington Parker, who was appointed by George W. Bush, pressed Department of Justice attorney Drew Ensign on whether Ozturks statements  and statements from another international student who was arrested for support for Palestine  amount to protected speech.

Your honor, we havent taken a position on that, Ensign replied.

Help my thinking. Take a position, Parked fired back.

I dont have authority to take a position, Ensign said.

Demonstrators gathered outside a federal appeals court in Manhattan on May 6 to support Tufts University doctoral student Rumeysa Ozturk ( Getty Images )

Ozturk has been locked up in a rural Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in Louisiana for more than 100 days. In sworn statements in court documents, she reported experiencing several asthma attacks and sharing a cell with more than 20 others in cramped and unsanitary conditions.

Her detention is unprecedented and shocking, according to Esha Bhandari, deputy director of the ACLUs Speech, Privacy, and Technology Project.

She has been held behind bars for six weeks while her health deteriorates for writing an op-ed, she told a three-judge appeals court panel Wednesday. Detention is not the norm with respect to visa revocation, as we had here. The executive branch made a specific decision to detain Ms. Ozturk that was motivated by her speech.

Last month, Vermont District Judge William K. Sessions ordered Ozturks transfer to a detention center in the state, noting that her case has raised significant constitutional concerns with her arrest and detention which merit full and fair consideration in this forum.

The Trump administration appealed the order, arguing that Ozturk can be deported under the Immigration and Nationality Act, which Secretary of State Marco Rubio has invoked against dozens of international students who he claims have adverse impacts on the countrys foreign policy.

But the administration does not appear to possess any evidence backing up claims of antisemitism and support for a terrorist organization to justify her arrest, according to court filings and government memos.

No one should be arrested and locked up for their political views, Bhandari said in a statement Wednesday. Every day that Rumeysa Ozturk remains in detention is a day too long. Were grateful the court refused the governments attempt to keep her isolated from her community and her legal counsel as she pursues her case for release.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Sen. Bernie Sanders and eight other Democratic senators are urging the top shareholder of CBS News parent company not to cave to Donald Trump and settle the presidents meritless $20 billion lawsuit over a 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris.

In a letter sent to Paramount Global boss Shari Redstone on Tuesday evening, first reported by The New York Times, Sanders and the other senators wrote that Trumps complaint  which most legal experts have said is baseless and would likely get tossed out of court  is a blatant attempt to intimidate the media and those who speak out against him.

The letter comes as Paramount and Trumps legal team are currently in mediation to resolve the case out of court, with the companys executive board already laying out an acceptable monetary amount that theyre willing to pay in a settlement. Redstone, who has now recused herself from the boards discussion on the case, has long pushed for a settlement in hopes that it will convince the Trump administration to approve Paramounts merger with Skydance.

This lawsuit is an attack on the United States Constitution and the First Amendment. It has absolutely no merit and it cannot stand, the letter stated.

In the United States of America, presidents do not get to punish or censor the media for criticizing them. Freedom of the press is what sets us apart from tin-pot dictatorships and authoritarian regimes, the senators continued.

A group of nine left-leaning senators, led by Bernie Sanders, is urging the boss of CBS News parent company not to settle Donald Trumps 60 Minutes interview. ( Copyright 2018 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

Besides Sanders, the letter was signed by Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Ed Markey (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR). The senators also pointed out that Paramounts own lawyers recently argued in court that Trumps suit, which claims CBS engaged in election interference with its editing of the Harris interview, is without basis in law or fact and should be dismissed.

Unfortunately, it appears that Paramount is now seeking to settle this case with Trump for as much as $75 million, they noted. In our view, that would be a grave mistake. We urge you and Paramounts board of directors to reconsider.

Labeling the case a bogus lawsuit, the senators said that rewarding Trump with millions of dollars will not cause him to back down on his war against the media but rather it would only embolden him to shakedown, extort and silence CBS whenever the network reported on issues Trump disliked.

Quoting CBS News legend Walter Cronkite, the senators wrote that freedom of the press is not just important to democracy, it is democracy before making one final plea to Redstone and the board.

Stand up for freedom of the press and our democracy, they concluded. Do not capitulate to this dangerous move to authoritarianism.

A Paramount spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The letter comes just two weeks after 60 Minutes executive producer Bill Owens abruptly resigned because of corporate interference, claiming he was unable to make independent decisions on the direction of the show. Earlier this year, amid the presidents continued attacks on the show, Redstone installed CBS News veteran Susan Zirinsky as the interim executive editor overseeing standards, which saw Zirinsky serving as a check on Owens and serving as Redstones eyes and ears on the show.

Meanwhile, after Trump raged last month about two 60 Minutes segments about Greenland and Ukraine and called for his hand-picked FCC chairman to take action, Redstone contacted Paramount co-CEO George Cheeks and wondered if it was possible to delay sensitive stories about Trump until the Skydance deal was sealed.

It would appear that the answer was no. This past Sunday, the newsmagazine ran a lengthy report on how the president is targeting some of the biggest law firms in the country that he accuses of weaponizing the justice system against him, which included an interview with Democratic attorney Marc Elias, a hated figure in MAGA circles.

The president's anger towards 60 Minutes has only continued to fester this week. Four days after the program was nominated for an Emmy for its editing of the Harris interview, Trump took to his social media platform to gripe about the nod while boasting about his lawsuit.

[I]n a total slap in the face to anyone who believes in TRUTH and Honest Journalism, this Fake News Puff Piece has now been nominated for an award by the totally discredited Emmys, the president blared on Truth Social. Did 60 Minutes and its Corporate Parents apply to get an Emmy for an illegally falsified interview, or did other Fake Outlets nominate them for this dubious honor?

Trump added: These antics are why the American People have no trust in the Press, and demand that the Media, very much including 60 Minutes, CBS, and its owners, be held responsible for their corruption and lies, which is exactly what we are doing in Court!
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Charlie Hopkins, one of the last living to have served time in Alcatraz, San Franciscos notorious island prison, has dismissed President Donald Trumps order that the jail be reopened.

I dont think he wants to reopen it, hes trying to draw attention to the crime rate, Hopkins, now in his 90s, told ABC7 New York.

When I was on Alcatraz, a rat couldnt survive.

Hopkins, a native of Jacksonville, Florida, who was hailed in his youth as a Golden Gloves boxer, was sentenced to 17 years behind bars in 1952 for his part in a robbery ring responsible for a string of carjackings.

He served 11 years in jail  three of which were spent at Alcatraz, where he was known as Inmate #1186  before reforming and finding work as a carpet fitter and then as a hospital security guard.

open image in gallery Former Alcatraz inmate Charlie Hopkins was sentenced to 17 years behind bars in 1952 for his part in a robbery ring responsible for a string of carjackings ( Asocial Media/YouTube )

Later in life, Hopkins became a pen pal of the infamous Boston gangster James Whitey Bulger, another Alcatraz veteran, a story he shared in his memoir Hard Time (2019) and in the TV series Alcatraz: The Last Survivor (2020).

Despite Hopkins scepticism, the president appeared to be in deadly earnest when he posted on Truth Social over the weekend: REBUILD, AND OPEN ALCATRAZ!

For too long, America has been plagued by vicious, violent, and repeat Criminal Offenders, the dregs of society, who will never contribute anything other than Misery and Suffering.

When we were a more serious Nation, in times past, we did not hesitate to lock up the most dangerous criminals, and keep them far away from anyone they could harm. Thats the way its supposed to be.

He added that he would be directing the Bureau of Prisons, the Department of Justice, the FBI and Homeland Security to reopen a substantially enlarged and rebuilt ALCATRAZ, to house Americas most ruthless and violent Offenders.

open image in gallery The former Alcatraz penitentiary seen in the San Franscio Bay ( AP )

The California maximum security penitentiary was opened in 1934 but closed again in 1963 after it was found to be three times more expensive to run than other jails and too costly to maintain, not least because of the extreme weather it was exposed to from the Pacific.

The facility has since enjoyed a second act as a lucrative tourist attraction, with visitors drawn by its reputation acquired during its three decades of service, when it housed legendary criminals such as Al Capone, George Machine Gun Kelly, Creepy Alvin Karpis, and Robert Stroud, a psychopathic amateur ornithologist known as the Birdman of Alcatraz.

One of the first to reject Trumps suggestion was former House speaker Nancy Pelosi, a San Francisco resident, who wrote on X: The presidents proposal is not a serious one.

open image in gallery Chicago mob boss Al Capone, arguably Alcatrazs most famous inmate ( Getty )

On Tuesday, Florida Democrat Rep. Jared Moskowitz ridiculed Trump in the House by calling the plan just another distraction to divert attention away from the tariffs, rising prices, or the struggle on Main Street.

Moskowitz went on to suggest that the president had gotten the idea from watching reruns of old movies on late-night television.

Perhaps he was watching Escape from Alcatraz, he suggested, referring to Don Siegels 1979 Clint Eastwood hit.

The funny part about that is that it was actually on television in South Florida. It was on PBS South Florida over the weekend when Trump was at Mar-a-Lago. In fact, he made his announcement just hours after it aired.

The congressmans reference to the scheduling is correct.

open image in gallery Alcatraz has enjoyed a revival as a tourist attraction since its closure in 1963 ( AP )

A number of tourists visiting the prison this week sounded out by ABC were equally withering, with one commenting: I think its one of the stupidest ideas I've ever heard in my life.

It would cost billions to refit this building. Its not even earthquake proof.

But U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, for one, has defended the idea, telling Larry Kudlow on Fox Business the venture would yield cost savings, without explaining how, and insisting it would serve as a powerful deterrent to would-be criminals.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

President Donald Trump is reportedly planning to announce that the United States will begin referring to the Persian Gulf as the Arabian Gulf or Gulf of Arabia in a snub to Iran.

Two administration officials have told the Associated Press that Trump will visit the region next week, touring Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. He is set to make the announcement as a friendly overture to his hosts.

The body of water, lying between eastern Saudi Arabia and the southwestern coast of Iran, has been widely known by its current name since the 16th century. However, the regions Arab nations have preferred a designation closer to Trumps.

open image in gallery Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House on Tuesday May 6 2025 ( AP )

Tehran has been protective of the seas historic name, however, and sued Google Maps in 2012 over its decision not to label it at all.

Trump waded into the issue early in his first term in 2017 when he alluded to the area as the Gulf of Arabia, causing Irans then-president Hassan Rouhani to suggest the American needed to study geography angrily.

His foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, likewise wrote in a social media post: Everyone knew Trumps friendship was for sale to the highest bidder. We now know that his geography is, too.

Trumps latest move will change how American officials refer to the area, but has no bearing on what the rest of the world calls the waterway, which is typically decided by the International Hydrographic Organization, a body to which the U.S. belongs.

It follows the presidents controversial executive order renaming a number of domestic landmarks, notably reverting Mount Denali in Alaska to its old name of Mount McKinley, preferring to ditch the native name for the peak in favor of honoring President William McKinley, an Ohioan who never once visited the state.

open image in gallery Trump visits Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on May 21 2017 during his first term and poses with First Lady Melania Trump, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz al-Saud ( Saudi Royal Palace )

Trumps decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America provoked ridicule from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. The White House excluded the AP from its press pool after it refused to use the new name, leading to a court case in which the agency overturned the ruling and won the right to continue covering the West Wing at close quarters.

Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have since returned the U.S. Army base Fort Liberty to its old name, Fort Bragg. However, this time it alludes to Second World War paratrooper Roland L Bragg, not the Confederate general Braxton Bragg, as was the original intention.

The presidents upcoming visit to the Middle East comes as he attempts to drum up Saudi investment in the U.S., resolve the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, and rein in Irans nuclear program.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

U.S. intelligence agencies were told last week to step up their spying efforts related to Greenland and the contingent that supports the self-governing Danish islands independence.

Last week, agencies including the CIA, Defense Intelligence Agency, and National Security Agency received a collection emphasis message about Greenland-related intelligence from officials under Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, The Wall Street Journal reports, citing two people familiar with the effort.

The intelligence gathering reportedly will focus in part on identifying individuals in Greenland and Denmark who support the Trump administrations interest in taking over the island.

The effort could include using U.S. spy satellites, communications intercepts, and human intelligence.

The Wall Street Journal should be ashamed of aiding deep-state actors who seek to undermine the president by politicizing and leaking classified information, Gabbard told the paper in response to its reporting. They are breaking the law and undermining our nations security and democracy.

The Independent has contacted the CIA, NSA, DIA, and Danish prime ministers office for comment.

Trump said over the weekend he wouldnt rule out using the military to invade Greenland ( Getty Images )

The reported intelligence notice marks one of the first major steps the administration has taken to further Trumps interest in taking over the island.

During an interview with NBC News over the weekend, Trump reiterated his commitment to the objective, which the president has said could provide the U.S. with strategic access to polar waterways and rare minerals.

We need Greenland very badly, Trump said. Greenland is a very small amount of people, which well take care of, and well cherish them, and all of that. But we need that for international security.

He added that he wouldnt rule out using military force to annex the island, which would mark a stunning development against a territory controlled by a NATO ally.

Officials in Denmark and Greenland have said they will not submit to U.S. control.

Vice President JD Vance visited the island in March, touring a U.S. base there.

Trump continued his expansionist tone on Tuesday during a White House visit from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, once again suggesting Canada could become the 51st American state.
Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Donald Trump's pressure on Ukraine to give up territory to Russia amounts to modern day appeasement, Joe Biden said on Wednesday as Vladimir Putin welcomed Chinas president and other leaders for his annual Victory Day military parade in Red Square.

The former US president told the BBC that his successor risked losing transatlantic confidence in the United States. Europes leaders are asking: 'Can I rely on the United States? Are they going to be there? he said.

Of special concern was the White House proposal to let Russia keep some Ukrainian territory in an effort to strike a peace deal.

It is modern day appeasement, Mr Biden said, referring to territorial concessions to Adolf Hitler by UK prime minister Neville Chamberlain that failed to prevent the Second World War.

He also said Mr Trump's treatment of Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office in February was beneath America.

open image in gallery Russian Sukhoi SU-25 fighter jets rehearsing on Wednesday for Friday's Victory Day parade in Moscow ( AFP/Getty )

Mr Trump has long dismissed the war in Ukraine as a waste of lives and American taxpayers money.

Kyiv and Washington last week signed an agreement granting American access to Ukraine's vast mineral resources  a return on investment, Mr Trump suggested, that could pave the way for more US aid. He has also said that Crimea, a strategic peninsula along the Black Sea in southern Ukraine that was illegally annexed by Russia in 2014, will stay with Russia.

Mr Bidens comments came as attacks by Ukrainian long-range drones caused flight disruption at Moscow's main airports for a third consecutive day.

Aeroflot cancelled more than 100 flights to and from Moscow, while more than 140 flights were delayed as planes were repeatedly grounded, flight data suggested, amid heightened security measures around Fridays 80th-anniversary celebrations in Moscow marking victory over Nazi Germany in the Second World War  Russia's biggest secular holiday of the year.

Air traffic control restrictions across Russia affected at least 350 flights and disrupted at least 60,000 passengers, the Russian Tour Operators Association said.

Russian air defences repelled an attack by nine drones close to Moscow, mayor Sergei Sobyanin said.

Foreign leaders attending the parade, including Chinas Xi Jinping, Brazils Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Venezuelas Nicolas Maduro, were due to arrive on Wednesday.

Mr Zelensky has said his country cannot provide security assurances over the Moscow events. Russia could stage provocations and later attempt to blame Ukraine, he said.

Baltic countries Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, which border Russia and its Kaliningrad exclave, plan to close their airspace to the planes carrying Serbia's and Slovakia's leaders to Moscow later this week for the celebrations out of safety concerns, officials there said.

Who could deny that in such a quite active cyber background ... that somebody will not use this as a possible provocation to create problems and risks for the flight of these people through the Republic of Lithuania, Lithuanian president Gitanas Nauseda said.

open image in gallery Vladimir Putin and Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro meet in Moscow on Wednesday ( Reuters )

Mr Xi's visit to Russia will be his third since the Kremlin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022. He last visited Moscow in March 2023 on a trip that offered an important political boost to Putin just days after the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for the Russian leader on charges of alleged involvement in abductions of thousands of children from Ukraine.

Putin is expected to travel to China at the end of August and beginning of September.

Since Russia's all-out invasion of Ukraine, Moscow has drawn closer to China as Western countries have sought to isolate Putin diplomatically. Russia has become increasingly dependent economically on China because of Western sanctions.

Meanwhile, Russia launched a ballistic missile and a barrage of drones at Ukraine's capital before dawn on Wednesday, killing at least two people in apartment buildings, Ukrainian officials said.

Russian planes also dropped two glide bombs on a village in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, killing two women.

Reuters and Associated Press contributed to this report
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle shares more than just a warm smile and infectious laugh with Pope Francis.

Like the late Argentinian pontiff, Tagle hails from outside Europes traditional Catholic power base, bringing a fresh perspective to the Vatican.

Before white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel on Thursday evening, signalling that a new Pope has been elected, some said that Tagles similarities to Francis could position him as a frontrunner.

The identity of the pope and the name he has chosen as pontiff will be announced to the world from the central balcony of St Peter's Basilica shortly. The new pope will then step forward to deliver his first public address and blessing to the gathered crowds.

Follow our live coverage of the conclave here

Tagle, who looks younger than his 67 years and likes to be called by his diminutive nickname Chito, has headed the Vaticans Dicastery for Evangelisation, effectively the Churchs missionary arm, for the past five years. That position gave him enormous influence over national churches in developing countries.

While 67 is a sunset age in many organisations, it is considered young in the Vatican because few cardinals want a very long pontificate.

Choosing Tagle could signal a clear intention to continue the progressive path of Francis, embracing a more open and modern Church. His potential election would indicate a rejection of candidates who might reverse some of Franciss reforms, reassuring the worlds 1.4 billion Catholics of the Churchs continued trajectory.

It would also mean his fellow cardinals had shrugged off question marks over his management abilities.

He would represent a continuity of what Pope Francis has been doing, said Rev Emmanuel Alfonso, a former student of Tagles who has known him for decades. Hes really like Pope Francis in terms of his love for the poor, his approachability and so on.

open image in gallery Francis greets Tagle, the then archbishop of Manila, and a group of migrants, during his weekly general audience at the Vatican, September 2017 ( AP )

Tagle, the former archbishop of Manila, would be the first pope from what is now considered Asia, although in the early Church some popes hailed from what is now called the Middle East, technically part of Asia.

As archbishop of Manila, and before as bishop of the Philippine city of Imus, Tagle gained pastoral experience in running dioceses in Asias largest Catholic country. By bringing him to the Vatican in 2020, Francis gave him one more notch in experiences seen as helpful to papal candidates. Tagles move to Rome brought criticism from the then Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte, who oversaw a bloody war on drugs that killed thousands of Filipinos during his 2016-2022 administration.

Duterte said Tagle had been removed from Manila for meddling in national politics.

The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines denied those accusations forcefully. Bishop Pablo Virgilio David of Kalookan, a conference official made a cardinal in 2024, called Dutertes claim unbelievably ludicrous.

Many cardinals already know Tagle personally, and many may see an attraction in having a pope from Asia, viewed by Church leaders as an important region of growth for the faith. Young people feel comfortable with him. When Tagle hosted Francis for a visit to the Philippines in 2014, the visit drew the largest crowds in the history of papal travel, including a mass that attracted up to 7 million people.

open image in gallery People attend a rosary prayer service with Tagle for the health of Pope Francis in St Peters Square, 25 February ( AP )

Tagle, who speaks Italian, English, and Spanish as well as his native Tagalog, now has five years of experience of the Vaticans arcane bureaucracy, although some cardinals may think even that is not enough to run the global Church.

One possible weakness in Tagles candidacy is that he was involved in a management scandal three years ago. In 2022, Francis removed him from a second job as titular head of a Vatican-based confederation of 162 Catholic relief, development and social services organisations working in more than 200 countries.

Francis fired the entire leadership of the group, called Caritas Internationalis, following allegations of bullying by top management.

Tagles role, akin to a chancellor of the organisation, was mostly symbolic and ceremonial. He was not directly involved in the day-to-day running and was generally admired by staffers.

Unlike Francis, Tagle enjoys a global reputation as a theologian, which could help him gain votes from moderate cardinals concerned by some of Franciss off-the-cuff utterances, which led to what some called confusion about Church teachings.

In the 1990s, he served on the Vaticans International Theological Commission under Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, a German known as a strict adherent to traditional doctrine who would later become Pope Benedict XVI.

The Reverend Joseph Komonchak, Tagles professor at the Catholic University of America in Washington DC, said the cardinal was one of his best students in 45 years of teaching.

Not the least of Chitos virtues was the joy that he radiated on everyone who encountered him, said Komonchak. He had a fine sense of humour, which endeared him to his fellow students.

open image in gallery Tagle wearing his biretta hat, after Pope Benedict XVI appointed him as a cardinal during a ceremony on 24 November 2012, at St Peters Basilica at the Vatican ( AFP/Getty )

Fr Robert Reyes, a seminary classmate who has known Tagle for more than 50 years, said Tagle has an ability to connect with people and a simple style of living. When he first became a bishop in 2001, he didnt own a car.

He preferred to take rides, to hitch a ride with someone driving to a place that perhaps both of them were going to, said Fr Reyes.

Whats the geographic breakdown of the cardinals who will elect the new pope?

There is no rule that cardinals electing a new pope vote a certain way according to their nationality or region. But understanding their makeup in geographic terms can help explain some of their priorities as they open the conclave on Wednesday to choose a new leader of the Catholic Church.

A cardinal who heads the Vaticans liturgy office might have a very different set of concerns than the archbishop of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. A cardinal who runs a large European archdiocese with hundreds of priests likely has other priorities than the Vatican ambassador ministering to war-torn Syria or the archbishop of Managua, Nicaragua, whose church has been under siege by the government.

There are currently 135 cardinals under the age of 80 and eligible to vote, hailing from 71 different countries in the most geographically diverse conclave in history. Already, two have formally told the Holy See that they cannot attend for health reasons, bringing the number of men who will enter the Sistine Chapel down to 133.

A two-thirds majority is needed to be elected pope, meaning that if the number of electors remains at 133, the winner must secure 89 votes.

Here is a regional breakdown of the full 135 cardinal electors, according to Vatican statistics and following the Vaticans geographic grouping.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Pope Leo XIV has appealed to world leaders to pursue peace, not war, in his first Sunday address to crowds in St Peters Square, Vatican City.

The new pope, formally Cardinal Robert Prevost, called for an authentic and lasting peace in Ukraine, a ceasefire in Gaza, and the release of all Israeli hostages.

The Chicago-born pontiff also welcomed fragile ceasefire agreement signed by India and Pakistan on Saturday.

No more war, the pope said, delivering his speech in Italian.

Wearing a simple white papal cassock and his silver pectoral cross, he repeated a frequent call of the late Pope Francis and noted the recent 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.

Pope Leo said todays world was living through the dramatic scenario of a Third World War being fought piecemeal, again repeating a phrase coined by his predecessor.

open image in gallery No more war! the pope said, delivering his speech in Italian ( AP )

Nearly 100,000 people gathered in St Peters Square and on the Via della Conciliazione leading to the Vatican to hear the new pontiffs first Sunday address.

They broke into applause at the call for peace on what was a joyous occasion despite his solemn message.

It was the first time that Leo had returned to the loggia since he appeared to the world on Thursday evening following his election as Pope  the first ever from the United States.

The new pope said he carried in his heart the suffering of the beloved people of Ukraine, and he appealed for negotiations to reach an authentic, just and lasting peace.

open image in gallery Nearly 100,000 people gathered in St Peter's Square and on the Via della Conciliazione leading to the Vatican ( AP )

Leo also said he was profoundly saddened by the war in Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian aid and the release of the remaining hostages held by the Hamas militant group in the besieged strip.

He added, however: There are so many other conflicts in the world.

Leo also noted that Sunday was Mothers Day in many countries and wished all mothers, including those in heaven, a Happy Mothers Day.

The crowd, filled with marching bands in town for a special Jubilee (Holy Year) weekend, erupted in cheers and music as the bells of St Peters Basilica tolled.

On Saturday evening, the Pope made his first trip outside the Vatican to visit a Catholic shrine and pay respects at the tomb of his predecessor, Francis, who lies in nearby Santa Maria Maggiore.

At the end of the visit there, the Pope told those in the shrine that he wanted to come to pray for guidance in the first days of his papacy, according to a Vatican statement.

The 69-year-old Chicago-born missionary was elected 267th pope on Thursday following the death of Francis on 21 April.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

In an operation that has been virtually unchanged for 800 years, 133 cardinals will gather in the Vaticans Sistine Chapel to start multiple rounds of voting and discussion to select who among them could lead the Catholic Church.

Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Filipino cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle are among the favourites to succeed Pope Francis ahead of the Papal Conclave, which begins on Wednesday.

Many of the cardinals may be looking to their predecessors for guidance on how to deal with the matter - but the papal elections have not always served to be orderly affairs.

From fist-fighting to pranks, here is a look some of the most unusual Conclaves in history:

open image in gallery 133 cardinals are gathering in the Vaticans Sistine Chapel to start multiple rounds of voting this week ( Getty )

AD 236

The process of electing a new pope in early Christianity remains unclear - but the appointment of a priest named Fabian in AD 236 was likely an outlier.

Fabian happened to be in Rome for the election of the new Pope when a dove landed upon his head, according to early church historian Eusebius.

The incident was taken as a sign from the clergy, who elected him Pope.

open image in gallery One cardinal died in Romes Septizodium Palace during the 1241 election ( Getty/iStock )

AD 1241

The 1241 election saw Cardinal Goffredo Castiglioni chosen as Pope Celestine IV.

The Cardinals were unable to reach a consensus during the election, which took place in high temperatures and amid tensions between the church and the Roman Emperor.

As they remained in Romes Septizodium Palace, one Cardinal died while more fell ill in the stifling heat.

There were even threats that the corpse of the late Pope Gregory IX would be dug up, before the cardinals elected Cardinal Castiglione - who was elderly and had deteriorating health.

He died just 17 days after his election, before he was even enthroned.

AD 1268-71

Lasting almost three years, this conclave marked the longest in history and is the reason many rules of the modern process exist today.

Three of the 20 cardinals present at the beginning of the election had died by the end and another resigned, as infighting delayed their decision for two years and nine months.

The cardinals were locked away in the fort town of Viterbo in an effort to expedite the process.

But when that didnt work, officials decided to ration their bread and water and remove the roof so they would be exposed to the elements.

Eventually, the cohort agreed to elect Teobaldo Visconti, who became Gregory X. During his time as Pope, he formalised the Conclave process with his bull Ubi periculum in 1274.

open image in gallery The longest conclave in history took place in Viterbo ( Getty/iStock )

AD 1334

In 1334, the electing cardinals were amazed by their own vote - after an unlikely candidate won.

An early favourite to become the next pope was Cardinal Jean-Raymond de Comminges, but the cohort was thrown off when he refused to promise to stay in France, where he was to be elected.

Amid the confusion, the cardinals each voted for a candidate they deemed unlikely to be elected. But enough of them accidentally voted for Jacques Fournier, who became Benedict XII.

On the first ballot, 20 December 1334, many electors, intending to sound the mind of the conclave, voted for the unlikely Cardinal Fournier, who, though he was one of the few men of real merit in the college, was but lightly regarded because of his obscure origin and lack of wealth and following, The Catholic Encyclopedia says.

He amazed the conclave by receiving the necessary two-thirds vote.

AD 1605

The papal conclave that took place in May 1605 is remembered for having the only recorded case of serious injury as a result of a fist fight between cardinals.

In a disagreement about who should be elected pope, cardinals engaged in a physical altercation that could apparently be heard on the streets outside the conclave.

The fight resulted in the only known instance of a serious injury during the papal election process, with Cardinal Alfonso Visconti having suffered several broken bones.

Following the disruption, Camillo Borghese was elected and became Paul V.

open image in gallery The 1623 conclave saw Pope Urban VIII elected ( Getty )

AD 1623

Cardinals electing the next pope during this election were apparently swayed by a bee infestation.

54 cardinals participated in the conclave which saw Cardinal Maffeo Barberini elected as Pope Urban VIII.

Historians have since claimed that in a strange coincidence, a swarm of bees entered the room and headed towards Barberini - whose familys coat of arms also happened to include bees.

The cardinals took it as a sign, and he was elected pope days later.

AD 1655

The long papal election of 1655 saw young cardinals grow bored - and even play pranks on their elders.

Beginning in January, the Conclave soon reached a stalemate which continued throughout February.

Younger members of the 66 electors began to play pranks in order to entertain themselves. One trick saw a cardinal dress up as the Holy Ghost to surprise older members of the college in the middle of the night.

This supposedly led to one cardinal dying from pneumonia after the prank caused him to fall and lie on a cold floor.

open image in gallery An imposter was caught sneaking into a pre-conclave meeting in 2013 ( Reuters )

2013

This more recent conclave featured a bizarre incident before the official proceedings began - when a fake cardinal gatecrashed a pre-conclave meeting.

The impostor was caught sneaking into a gathering of cardinals dressed in fake clerical robes before he was escorted out of the Vatican by Swiss Guards.

He reportedly shook hands with priests and said his name was Basilius. He also reportedly told his fake peers that he was a member of the Italian Orthodox Church - which does not exist.

He was discovered by a guard who noticed he was wearing a pink scarf around his waist rather than the proper sashes worn by true cardinals.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

President Donald Trump has issued a proclamation designating Thursday as a day for the United States to celebrate victory in World War II as countries in Europe already do.

Cities from London to Moscow are holding parades, flyovers and memorials this week as the world observes Thursdays 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, when Nazi Germany surrendered to Allied forces, including the U.S.

Here's what to know about Trump's plans:

What is Trump doing and why?

The Republican president is designating specific days for the U.S. to celebrate being on the winning side in World War I and World War II. He complained in recent social media posts that Americans don't spend enough time celebrating those achievements, which he said wouldn't have been possible without the U.S.

Many of our allies and friends are celebrating May 8th as Victory Day, but we did more than any other Country, by far, in producing a victorious result on World War II. I am hereby renaming May 8th as Victory Day for World War II and November 11th as Victory Day for World War I, he said last week on social media. We won both Wars, nobody was close to us in terms of strength, bravery, or military brilliance, but we never celebrate anything  Thats because we dont have leaders anymore, that know how to do so! We are going to start celebrating our victories again!

Can Trump rename an existing federal holiday?

No. Nov. 11 is already Veterans Day, a federal holiday in the U.S., and only Congress can create, rename or take it back. That could explain why Trump backed away from his renaming plan and said he'd instead be declaring national holidays instead.

We won two World Wars, but we never took credit for it  Everyone else does! All over the World, the Allies are celebrating the Victory we had in World War II. The only Country that doesnt celebrate is the United States of America, and the Victory was only accomplished because of us, he wrote Monday on social media. Without the United States, the War would have been won by other Countries, and what a different World it would be. Therefore, I am hereby declaring a National Holiday in celebration of the Victories of World War I, where the Armistice was signed on November 11, 1918, and World War II, where the Victory date was May 8, 1945.

He signed a proclamation on Wednesday that designates May 8, 2025, as a day in celebration of Victory Day for World War II. He's expected to issue a similar proclamation for World War I later this year.

Is Thursday a day off from work?

No, Thursday is not a federal holiday and therefore not a day off from work. Only Congress can create federal holidays, and Trump has complained that there already are too many of them.

What does he envision will happen around the U.S. on these days?

It's unclear. Trump didn't say what he envisions happening, and the proclamation didn't include any details. But he said during an unrelated appearance Wednesday in the Oval Office that he noticed France and other countries were all getting ready for Victory Day.

We dont celebrate it and I think thats a great disservice, Trump said.

What happens in other countries?

On major anniversaries like this years 80th, Britain celebrates VE Day with parades, airplane flyovers and memorials. The British royal family traditionally watches the airplanes pass overhead from a balcony at Buckingham Palace.

Russia celebrates on Friday, and its Victory Day parades are a massive show of its armed forces, with thousands of troops, scores of heavy equipment rolling across Red Square and flyovers involving dozens of warplanes. Military parades, fireworks and other festivities are held in cities across the country.

What have veterans groups said about Trump's plans?

Rob Couture, director of public affairs for the Veterans of Foreign Wars, said they are encouraged by any steps that bring attention to the service of veterans from that time.

Just over 66,100 of the 16.4 million Americans who served in World War II were alive as of 2024.

-

Associated Press writer Jill Lawless in London contributed to this report.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Catholicism did not begin as a white faith. Born on the eastern rim of the Mediterranean, it spread through the trading routes and legions of the Roman Empire into Africa, Asia and, only later, what we now call Europe.

Three early bishops of Rome: Victor I (c. 189199), Miltiades (311314) and Gelasius I (492496), were Africans whose teaching shaped the churchs developing doctrine.

They are venerated as saints, a reminder the papal office has never been racially defined.

However, that history sits uneasily with the unbroken run of European popes that stretches from the early Middle Ages to the death of Francis last month. Francis, an Argentine, was the first pope from Latin America, but he was the son of an Italian immigrant family.

Why, in a global communion of 1.4 billion faithful, has the modern conclave not looked beyond Europeans for a new pope? And what would need to change for it to do so?

Change has been gradual

The explanation lies less in colour than in logistics and culture.

Europe was the political and demographic centre of Catholicism for centuries. Until the 19th century, travel to Rome from beyond Europe was protracted, dangerous and expensive. An elector who missed the start of a conclave was simply excluded.

Papal politics, therefore, became tightly entwined with Italian city factions and, after 1870, the diplomatic rivalries of European powers.

Even after steamships and railways made travel easier, longstanding practice and patronage ensured most future cardinals were trained at Roman universities, served in the Curia (the bureaucracy of the Vatican), and moved within a Euro-centric network of friendships. The College of Cardinals became overwhelmingly European in composition and culture.

The 20th-century popes began to chip away at this European dominance in internal church governance:

Pius X abolished the secular veto in 1903 (used by Catholic monarchs to veto papal candidates)

Pius XI named the first modern Chinese cardinal in 1946

Paul VI limited papal electors to those under the age of 80 and started appointing non-European bishops in greater numbers.

John Paul II and Benedict XVI continued this trend, while Francis made a point of elevating pastors from places as varied as Tonga, Lesotho and Myanmar.

open image in gallery Pope Francis made a point of elevating pastors from varied places ( Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

While Europe still claims the single largest bloc of votes in the conclave, there has been a decline in its cardinal representation from almost 70 per cent in 1963 to 39 per cent in 2025. The representatives from Africa and Asia have steadily increased.

Of the 135 electors who are eligible to enter the Sistine Chapel to cast ballots for the new pope on May 7, 53 are European. Africa has 18 electors, Asia 23, Latin America 21, North America 16, and Oceania four. (Two, however, are sick and will not attend  one from Europe and one from Africa).

This representation is disproportionately European, reflecting the gradual nature of shifts in the churchs structures.

Shifting demographics

The demographics of the Catholic church, meanwhile, are changing rapidly.

Between 1980 and 2023, the Catholic population of Europe fell from 286 million to just under 250 million. Weekly mass attendance declined even more steeply.

Over the same period, the number of Catholics in Africa almost tripled to 255 million. Asia climbed to about 160 million. And Latin America, though no longer expanding, remains home to roughly 40 per cent of all Catholics, at 425 million.

Vocations follow the same curve: seminaries in France and Germany are closing for lack of students, while Nigeria, India and the Philippines are sending their priests abroad to ease shortages in Europe.

Africa and Asia have also significantly increased their representation among Cardinals at the highest level of the Church, from less than 10 per cent in 1963 to more than 30 per cent in 2025.

Ultimately, these numbers will expand even further, catching up with baptismal registers in Africa, Asia and Latin America.

What matters most during the conclave

Observers often describe papal candidates as progressive or conservative, or speculate about a Global South bloc ready to storm the papal throne. Such language obscures what the electors actually consider when casting a ballot.

Five practical questions tend to be important:

1. Is the candidate known and trusted, and a man of faith and wisdom?

Personal acquaintance still matters. Cardinals who have worked in Rome are well-placed because most electors have met them repeatedly.

2. Can he govern the Curia?

Leading the worlds oldest bureaucracy demands stamina, political tact, leadership acumen, relational skills and fluency in Italian, the everyday language of Vatican administration.

There is also the ongoing issue of reform, particularly around the churchs sexual abuse crisis and financial matters.

3. Will he be heard beyond Rome?

A pope must travel, address parliaments and give press conferences. Because communication and symbolism are important, a command of English and comfort in front of the global media matter greatly.

4. Is he a pastor?

The ability to preach the Gospel compellingly, comfort the afflicted and speak credibly about the poor has been vital since John Paul II.

5. Does he know and inhabit the tradition of the church?

As part of this, a pope should also be able to represent and deepen the churchs teachings.

Non-European papal candidates

These criteria help explain why previous non-European hopefuls have fallen short.

In 1978, for instance, Cardinal Aloisio Lorscheider of Brazil was judged too youthful and untested.

In 2005, Cardinal Francis Arinze of Nigeria, though admired, was seen as a transition figure at the age of 72. He also lacked experience in the Curia.

In 2013, Cardinal Odilo Scherer of Brazil was persuasive on pastoral questions but hampered by his limited English and Italian, and by concerns the Vatican Bank needed a strong financial reformer.

open image in gallery Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is among the names being mentioned as a future pope ( Alessandra Tarantino/AP )

Could it change this year? There are several non-European candidates in the current conclave:

Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines): the former archbishop of Manila, he is a gifted communicator in Italian and English. Some voters may fear he is not administratively capable and too closely identified with Francis, yet others see that continuity as an advantage.

Fridolin Ambongo Besungu (Democratic Republic of the Congo): a leading African voice on ecology and conflict mediation, he is admired for his courage and leadership in strife-torn Congo. Sceptics point to his limited network outside Africa and France. He may also be too conservative for some cardinals.

Peter Turkson (Ghana): a long-time curial prefect and articulate champion of economic justice. Age counts against him (he is 76), yet he could emerge as a compromise if the Conclave stalls, as he seen to be doctrinally solid, open and charismatic.

Any one of them would break the post-medieval pattern. None, however, would (or should) campaign as a flag-bearer for his continent.

The church neither keeps a scorecard by hemisphere nor anoints popes to gratify civil notions of representation.

The most important thing is whether a candidate can carry forward the mission of the church and speak in an effective way in an era marked by war, the climate crisis and rapid secularisation.

Would a non-European pope be seismic?

Symbolically, yes.

A Filipino or Congolese pope would signal that Catholicisms demographic heart now beats in Manila and Kinshasa, rather than Milan and Cologne.

Practically, though, the change might be less dramatic.

Whoever is elected inherits the same threefold task:

to guard church unity while being a place for all nations and peoples

to preach convincingly in a sceptical age and serve the poor and marginalised

to lead the a very diverse institution and reform the Curia so it serves rather than stifles evangelisation.

Those challenges transcend region and skin tone.

If the next pope happens to be African, Asian or Latin American, history will have turned a page. The universal body will have recognised, in the face of its evolving demographics, the gifts of a shepherd able to speak to followers in Kinshasa, Manila, Sao Paulo and Munich with equal conviction.

The mystery of the conclave is that when the doors close, regional and political calculations fade. What remains is prayerful discernment about who can carry Saint Peters keys into an uncertain future.

Darius von Guttner Sporzynski is a Historian at Australian Catholic University. Joel Hodge is a Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Theology and Philosophy at Australian Catholic University.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

The first hint of the new pope's direction has come with the name he picked.

USA Cardinal Robert Prevost, 69, was elected the new pope and leader of the Roman Catholic Church on Thursday and has taken the name Pope Leo XIV a senior cardinal announced to crowds in St. Peter's Square.

Cardinal Robert Prevost, an American missionary who spent his career ministering in Peru and leads the Vatican's powerful office of bishops, was elected the first American pope in the 2,000-year history of the Catholic Church.

After the traditional announcement of "Habemus Papam"  "We have a pope"  from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, the new pontiff's baptismal name was revealed, followed by the all-important papal name, laden with symbolic meaning.

Read more: First American pontiff Robert Prevost takes Catholic Church helm amid increasing global turmoil

Peace be with all you," Pope Leo XIV said from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica on Thursday, in his first public words.

Papal name historically signifies strength during crisis, Catholic commentator says

The election of American-born Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has come as a surprise, Catholic priest and blogger Ed Tomlinson said.

It seems likely to be a continuation of Franciss liberalisation, he told The Independent.

open image in gallery New Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, stands for a portrait at the end of the consistory where Pope Francis elevated 21 new cardinals in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sept. 30, 2023. (AP Photo/Riccardo De Luca, File) ( AP )

As for his choice of Papal name, Tomlinson said it had a long history.

The papal name Leo unsurprisingly shows a Pope who is going to be strong during a time of crisis, historically, he said.

The last pope to choose the name Leo was more than 100 years ago. Pope Leo XIII led the Church from 1878 to 1903. The first pope of the name, Pope Leo the Great, led the church from 440-461.

Pope Leo XI had one of the shortest pontificates in history, lasting less than a month - from 1 April 1605 until his death on 27 April 1605.

Whats in a name?

A Pope Francis II would have singalled a continuation of the late pontiff's focus on pastoral care and the marginalised. Interestingly, Francis himself jokingly suggested his successor might be John XXIV, referencing the progressive pope of the Second Vatican Council era.

Conversely, selecting Pius, the most frequently used papal name of the 20th century, would clearly indicate a traditionalist taking the helm.

As Natalia Imperatori-Lee, chair of religious studies at Manhattan College, noted, "In the deepest recesses of their mind, when they start the conclave, everyone will walk in there with a name in their head."

The chosen name will offer a crucial first glimpse into the new pope's vision for the Catholic Church.

History of papal names

open image in gallery Pope Francis speaks during a news conference aboard the papal flight on its way back from Brazil in 2013

For most of the Catholic Church's first millennium, popes used their given names. The first exception was the 6th century Roman Mercurius, who had been named for a pagan god and chose the more appropriate name of John II.

The practice of adopting a new name became ingrained during the 11th century, a period of German popes who chose names of early church bishops out of a desire to signify continuity," said the Rev. Roberto Regoli, a historian at Rome's Pontifical Gregorian University.

For many centuries, new popes tended to choose the name of the pope who had elevated them to cardinal. John was the most popular, chosen by 23 popes, followed by Benedict and Gregory, each with 16.

Only starting in the mid-20th century did new popes begin to choose names signaling the aim of their papacy, Regoli said.

Even now, as we are waiting for the new pope, the name with which he will present himself will help us to understand the horizon towards which he wants to proceed," Regoli said.

Some names have been out of use for centuries, like Urban or Innocent.

I dont think anyone will pick Innocent, Imperatori-Lee said, given the abuse and other scandals that have rocked the church. I dont think that would be the right choice."

Recent names of Popes

open image in gallery Pope Francis waves to onlookers from his popemobile as his motorcade passes by on the way to another "Meeting With Families" at the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines ( The Associated Press )

FRANCIS

Pope Francis, elected in 2013, took the name of St. Francis of Assisi, known for his humility, life of poverty and love of all creatures.

With it, Francis signaled a papacy focused on those who are often seen as outsiders, including the poor, prisoners and the LGBTQ+ community, while promoting peace, brotherhood and care of the environment.

BENEDICT

Last chosen by German Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, elected in 2005. Pope Benedict XVI said he wanted to pay homage to Benedict XV, who led the church during World War I and dedicated himself to healing the rifts of war, and to the 6th century St. Benedict, founder of Western monasticism, who helped spread Christianity throughout Europe.

One of Benedict XVIs priorities was trying to revive the faith in Europe. If we get a Benedict, then we will know that the cardinals chose to see Francis as an anomaly," Imperatori-Lee said.

JOHN PAUL

The papacy's first composite name was chosen by Cardinal Albino Luciani in 1978 to honor Pope John XXIII, who opened the Vatican Council II process that reformed the Catholic Church, and Paul VI, who closed it.

The name signaled a commitment to reforms, including sidelining the Latin Mass in favor of local languages and opening to other faiths, most significantly Judaism. John Paul Is papacy lasted just 33 days. Polish Cardinal Karol Wojtyla, who succeeded him, chose the name John Paul II.

JOHN

Chosen 23 times by popes, most recently in 1958 by Pope John XXIII. John can refer to St. John the Apostle, one of Jesus' 12 apostles and the author of one of the Gospels, or St. John the Baptist, the prophet who baptized Jesus.

John the XXIII was a pope that no one expected a lot from, but had a colossal impact on the church," Imperatori-Lee said. So that could be a sign of what they want their pontificate to be like."

PAUL

Chosen six times, most recently in 1963 by Paul VI. St. Paul the Apostle spread the teachings of Jesus in the 1st century.

PIUS

It is associated with popes known for their traditionalist, anti-reform bent. Pius IX ordered the kidnapping of the Jewish boy Edgardo Mortara in 1858 and raised him Catholic in the Vatican after learning he had been secretly baptized by a housekeeper.

Pius X was the early 20th century anti-modernist who inspired the anti-Vatican II schismatic group, the Society of St. Pius X. Pius XII was the World War II-era pope criticized for not speaking out sufficiently about the Holocaust.

"It is now a name that is hostage to some Catholic groups that can be considered traditionalists," Regoli said.

New directions for a Pope

A new pope is free to choose a name never used before, as Francis did.

This would open a new season and could mean that his program is not in line with any of his predecessors, so an even more personalized program," Regoli said.

Imperatori-Lee suggested another name that might signal a continuation of Francis' legacy: Ignatius, for the founder of Francis' Jesuit order.

It would be interesting," she said. "We've never had one of those."
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

In a centuries-old tradition shrouded in secrecy, 133 cardinals from 70 countries convened Wednesday at the Vatican, embarking on the momentous task of electing a successor to Pope Francis.

This conclave marks a historic moment, representing the most geographically diverse gathering of cardinals in the 2,000-year history of the Catholic Church.

Secluded from the outside world within the Vatican walls, the cardinals will surrender their mobile phones and endure electronic jamming of airwaves, ensuring complete communication blackout until a new leader is chosen for the 1.4 billion-member church.

Pope Francis, known for his focus on inclusivity, appointed 108 of the 133 participating cardinals, selecting many who share his pastoral vision from previously unrepresented nations such as Mongolia, Sweden, and Tonga.

His decision to exceed the traditional limit of 120 cardinal electors, and his emphasis on younger cardinals from the "global south"  often marginalised countries with less economic power  has introduced an unprecedented level of uncertainty into the already mysterious and suspenseful process.

Many of the cardinals met for the first time last week, expressing a need for more time to become acquainted.

This unfamiliarity raises questions about the duration of the conclave and how long it might take for a candidate to secure the required two-thirds majority, or 89 votes, to become the 267th pope.

Wait and see, a little patience, wait and see, said Cardinal Mario Zenari, the Vaticans ambassador to Syria as he arrived for the final day of pre-vote discussions.

A final Mass, then All out

The cardinals begin by participating in a final pre-conclave Mass in St. Peters Basilica. The dean of the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re, celebrates the Mass, which is meant to pray for cardinals to find the wisdom, counsel and understanding to elect a worthy new shepherd.

Re, 91, had presided at Francis funeral, delivering a heartfelt sermon recalling historys first Latin American pope and the reforming 12-year papacy he oversaw.

At 4.30 pm (2.30pm GMT; 10.30 am EDT) the cardinals walk solemnly into the frescoed Sistine Chapel, chanting the meditative Litany of the Saints and the Latin hymn Veni Creator, imploring the saints and the Holy Spirit to help them pick a pope.

Once there, they pledge to maintain secrecy about what is about to transpire and to not allow any interference, opposition or any other form of intervention from outsiders to influence their voting.

Standing before Michelangelos vision of heaven and hell in The Last Judgment, each cardinal places his hand on the Gospel and swears to carry out that duty "so help me God and these Holy Gospels, which I touch with my hand.

After that, the retired preacher of the papal household, Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa, delivers a meditation.

The master of papal liturgical ceremonies, Archbishop Diego Ravelli, calls out Extra omnes, Latin for all out. Anyone not eligible to vote then leaves and the chapel doors close, allowing the work to begin.

The cardinals dont have to take a first vote on Wednesday, but they usually do. Assuming no winner is found, the Vatican said black smoke could be expected out of the Sistine Chapel chimney at around 7pm.

The cardinals retire for the night and return Thursday morning. They can hold up to two ballots in the morning and two in the afternoon until a winner is found.

While cardinals this week said they expected a short conclave, it will likely take at least a few rounds of voting.

For the past century, it has taken between three and eight ballots to find a pope. John Paul I  the pope who reigned for 33 days in 1978  was elected on the third ballot.

His successor, John Paul II, needed eight. Francis was elected on the fifth in 2013.

Challenges facing a new pope

There are a number of challenges facing a new pope and weighing on the cardinals, above all, whether to continue and consolidate Francis progressive legacy on promoting women, LGBTQ+ acceptance, the environment and migrants, or roll it back to try to unify a church that became more polarised during his pontificate.

The clergy sex abuse scandal hung over the pre-conclave talks.

Since Francis chose 80 per cent of the voters, continuity is likely but the form it might take is uncertain.

As a result, identifying front-runners has been a challenge. But some names keep appearing on lists of papabile, or cardinals having the qualities to be pope.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, 70, is a leading Italian, by nature of his office: He was Francis secretary of state, the Vatican No. 2, so known to every cardinal.

Filippino Cardinal Luis Tagle, 67, is a top candidate to be historys first Asian pope. He had a similarly high-profile job, heading the Vaticans evangelization office responsible for the Catholic Church in much of the developing world.

Hungarian Cardinal Peter Erdo, 72, the archbishop of Budapest, is a leading candidate representing the more conservative wing of the church.

How cardinals place their vote

The voting follows a strict choreography, dictated by church law.

Each cardinal writes his choice on a paper inscribed with the words Eligo in summen pontificem  I elect as Supreme Pontiff.

They approach the altar one by one and say: I call as my witness, Christ the Lord who will be my judge, that my vote is given to the one who, before God, I think should be elected.

The folded ballot is placed on a round plate and tipped into an oval silver and gold urn. Once cast, the ballots are opened one by one by three different scrutineers, cardinals selected at random who write down the names and read them aloud.

Cardinals can keep their own tally on a sheet of paper provided but must turn their notes in to be burned at the end of voting.

The scrutineers, whose work is checked by other cardinals called revisors, then add up the results of each round of balloting and write the results down on a separate sheet of paper, which is preserved in the papal archives.

As the scrutineer reads out each name, he pierces each ballot with a needle through the word Eligo and binds them with thread and ties a knot.

The ballots are then put aside and burned in the chapel stove along with a chemical to produce either black smoke to signal no winner, or white smoke to announce that a new pope has been elected.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Black smoke has funnelled out of the Sistine Chapel, signalling that the first vote to appoint a successor to the late Pope Francis has been inconclusive.

Millions await the results of the secret conclave, for which 133 cardinals have gathered in the Sistine Chapel for the election process. They gathered at 4.30pm local time on Wednesday in the 15th-century chapel for the first ballot.

Thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square waiting for smoke to pour from a narrow flue on the roof of the chapel at the end of a day rich in ritual and pageantry.

The crowds had to be patient as it took longer than expected for the smoke to appear, more than three hours after the start of the conclave.

This was an hour more than it took for smoke to be seen after the first vote in the 2013 conclave that picked the late Pope Francis.

Pope Francis died on 21 April after more than a decade as head of the Church. He was buried on 26 April.

Black smoke has funnelled out of the Sistine Chapel ( REUTERS )

It is the largest and most diverse conclave to decide the next pope, with many of the appointees, from 70 countries, picked by Pope Francis himself.

Onlookers had expected to see black smoke after the first round of voting, a sign that no candidate had secured the two-thirds support necessary to win the papacy, and the cardinals will reconvene tomorrow for up to four more votes.

Earlier on Wednesday, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re said the election of the new pope is not a simple succession of persons, in his homily during Mass at St Peters Basilica.

He urged cardinals to pray God will grant the Church a Pope who knows how best to awaken the consciences of all and the moral and spiritual energies in todays society.

May the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, intercede with her maternal intercession, so that the Holy Spirit will enlighten the minds of the Cardinal electors and help them agree on the Pope that our time needs, he said.

Though there is no specific schedule for the votes, they tend to finish around mid-morning, noon, mid-afternoon and evening.

The process will repeat until one candidate has secured the necessary votes, after which white smoke will appear from the chimneys of the Sistine Chapel.

While the conclave for the late Pope Francis lasted just a day, the longest in history lasted nearly three years with the election of Pope Gregory X in 1271. It was also the first conclave in modern history.

After a new pope is appointed, the bells of St Peters Basilica will be rung to confirm the successful conclusion of the conclave. The senior cardinal deacon will then announce the new leader from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica.

Several candidates have emerged as frontrunners to succeed Pope Francis, including his top advisor Cardinal Pietro Parolin and fellow liberal Luis Antonio Tagle, the Filipino nicknamed Asian Francis.

But there are a number of more conservative candidates also in the running, including Hungarian traditionalist Peter Erdo and Congolese Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu.

The voting cardinals, all of whom have to be under the age of 80, are sequestered during the conclave and cannot communicate with anyone else. They are sworn to secrecy, never to discuss what happens during the conclave.

Once a vote is concluded, the ballots are burned in a stove with a mixture of chemicals, either to produce black or white smoke.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State for the last 12 years and its top diplomat, has emerged on nearly every shortlist as an obvious papal contender.

White smoke has billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel on Thursday evening, signalling that a new Pope has been elected.

The identity of the pope and the name he has chosen as pontiff will be announced to the world from the central balcony of St Peter's Basilica shortly. The new pope will then step forward to deliver his first public address and blessing to the gathered crowds.

Follow our live coverage of the conclave here

As the Vatican's number two, he is perhaps the candidate best known to the 133 cardinal electors who will enter the Sistine Chapel for the start of the secret conclave on Wednesday.

Parolin - a 70-year-old from a small town in Italy's deeply Catholic northern Veneto region - is said to be a steady administrator who could bring some calm after three consecutive papacies that were at times tempestuous.

Parolin's personality is not as charismatic as that of Francis, but some cardinals may see that as a plus.

"Parolin is like Clark Kent without the superman part - mild-mannered, industrious, respected, but not flashy," said one person, a layman, who knows him well, referring to the famous comic book character with two personalities.

His role has brought him into contact with cardinals worldwide, both in Rome and during visits to their home countries - a familiarity that could prove crucial in the secretive world of the conclave.

Two cardinals from two African countries, for example, probably know Parolin just as well or even better than they know each other.

Under Pope Francis, who died on April 21, the number of occasions all the world's cardinals could meet altogether in Rome was limited.

open image in gallery Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin ( AP Photo/Michael Sohn, file )

"We have to get to know each other" has been a common refrain to reporters from otherwise tight-lipped cardinals entering and leaving pre-conclave meetings known as "General Congregations".

Parolin is seen as a quiet diplomat who is pragmatic rather than conservative or progressive. He occasionally had to quietly put out fires caused by the late pope's remarks.

Francis, an Argentine who was the first pope from the Americas, gave media interviews and sometimes spoke off the cuff in public.

"He (Parolin) knows how to take a punch for the number one and for the institution," said one cleric currently based abroad who has worked with him and has known him for many years, who asked not to be identified because of the secretive nature of the conclave.

One such recent occasion was when the late Pope suggested last year that Israel's military campaign in Gaza might amount to genocide. Parolin agreed to meet with the then-Israeli ambassador to the Vatican, Raphael Schutz, who told him that Israel wanted the pope to say more about Israel's right to defend itself.

When Francis said Ukraine should have the "courage of the white flag" to end the war there, the comment drew widespread criticism from allies of Kyiv but was hailed by Russia. Parolin quietly told diplomats that the pope meant negotiations, not surrender.

Career focused on diplomacy

Parolin entered the minor seminary when he was 14 and was ordained in 1980. He has spent nearly all of his career in Vatican diplomacy, in Rome and around the world. He has never headed a Catholic diocese, which would have given him more pastoral experience.

But those who know him say this is not a deficit because, in running an organisation as complex as the Vatican's central administration and representing the pope around the world, he has had many contacts with many members of the faithful.

"He travelled to many places and dealt with all categories of people in diverse regional, cultural and linguistic environments. He knows the universal Church," the overseas cleric said.

Some conservative-leaning cardinals in the U.S. and Asia have expressed disagreement with Parolin because he is the main architect of a secret 2018 Vatican agreement with China.

open image in gallery Parolin welcomes US Vice President JD Vance at the Vatican ( Vatican Media )

They call the deal, which gives Chinese authorities some say in who will serve as Catholic bishops, a sell-out to the Communist Party. Supporters say it is better than no dialogue at all between the Church and China and that even Pope Benedict, known as more conservative than Francis, favoured it.

Another criticism is that under Parolin's watch, the Secretariat of State lost some U$140 million in a botched investment in a London property.

The deal led to a Vatican corruption trial in which Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was one of Parolin's top deputies, was convicted of embezzlement and fraud.

Parolin testified at the trial but was not among those accused. Becciu denies wrongdoing and is appealing the verdict.
The British government is finally recognising the growing threat of a direct attack from its foreign enemies  and the countrys huge gaps in its defences when dealing with such threats. It has been steadily dawning over the last few years that war is no longer something that only happens to other people a long way away, and that will never directly affect British people at home.

In a speech today, Sir Keir Starmer said money would be made available for all plans laid out in the new strategic defence review, which includes extra attack submarines, 15 billion on nuclear warheads and thousands of new long-range weapons.

The government has promised to increase defence spending to 2.5 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) by 2027, and has an ambition  but no firm commitment  to hike it to 3 per cent in the next parliament.

Adversaries like Russia have spent years pouring resources into ways of striking targets at immensely long distances  not only missiles with ranges of thousands of kilometres but also covert and semi-deniable means of attack, such as cyberstrikes and recruiting proxies to carry out arson, sabotage and assassination.

And the warnings have been coming through loud and clear from both inside and outside government that the UK is ill-prepared to defend itself against these attacks, or to deal with the consequences if its defences fail.

In April, a senior RAF officer was among the first in his position to be explicit about the inadequacy (or, by some accounts, close to non-existence) of the UKs air and missile defences  and this after decades of Russia sending its long-range bomber flights towards British airspace.

Defence Secretary John Healey warned this weekend that Russia is conducting daily cyber attacks on the UK.

And the heads of both MI5 and MI6 have been increasingly blunt in their warnings of Russias staggeringly reckless campaigns of sabotage, with MI5 chief Ken McCallum describing Russias mission of triggering sustained mayhem on British streets.

The cyberattacks, sabotage, and assassinations have until now been isolated pinpricks and test runs across Europe, but could have devastating effects if delivered in a mass, coordinated fashion. Russias reported test runs planting incendiary devices on aircraft show just how willing Moscow is to cause mass casualty events well beyond Ukraine  including, in a dramatic escalation, practising for attacks against flights to the US and Canada.

People in Britain might reasonably ask why Russia would attack them at home, and what Moscow would stand to gain from it. The answers lie not only in the wild verbal onslaughts on the UK by Russian propagandists on television, whose fever dreams are haunted by mythical Anglo-Saxons whose historical mission has been to thwart Russias every ambition.

Theres also a very real sense in which the UK has been a problem for Russia. It was Britain that, in the early stages of Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, galvanised European and even American resolve to support Kyiv, pouring weapons into the country when others had written off Ukraines chances of survival.

open image in gallery A Russian Yars intercontinental ballistic missile launcher rolls through Red Square in 2023 ( Sputnik )

And now, it is the UK, together with France, that still seems to nurture the ambition of leading a coalition of the willing to insert itself into Ukraine in order to frustrate Russian plans to restart the conflict there if any form of ceasefire is agreed. Whether those plans are realistic or not, Russia wants to deter them and ensure they never become a reality.

And thats where Russias military theories of deterrence and coercion come in.

Critics of the idea that Russia might want to attack Nato like to dismiss it with nonsensical caricatures of Russian paratroopers appearing over the South Downs, or Soviet-style armoured divisions rolling forward across the plains of Europe. Thats a far less likely form of attack than the doctrine Russia has been developing of coercion rather than invasion  delivering sufficient damage against a target country at a distance that they change their political course without necessarily having to move tanks across its border.

We know from the experience of Ukraine, and of Syria before it, what this looks like. It doesnt mean strikes on military facilities, it means attacking those targets that cause the maximum human suffering among the population. That is critical infrastructure, hospitals, power generation and distribution, and other facilities that keep people alive, in order to target the most vulnerable in society so as to demonstrate the costs of opposing Russia.

open image in gallery The UK is ill-prepared to defend itself against these attacks, or to deal with the consequences if its defences fail ( AFP/Getty )

The idea of Russian missiles landing in London or Liverpool without war or warning still seems far-fetched for most people. And for decades, it was, while there was no doubt over the solidarity of Nato, including the certainty that any such attack would trigger the support of the United States in retaliating against Moscow.

But sadly, the fact that Britains defence planning has also treated the idea as far-fetched paradoxically makes such a scenario more likely by increasing the chances that Russia might think it would be successful. And thats a problem in a new world environment where Moscow might think  rightly or wrongly  that it could get away with attacking the UK and not bringing on a devastating US response.

All of this explains why defence commentators who have been awake to the issue have castigated the refusal by successive British governments to make any plans or preparations for the possibility of major disruption at home due to enemy action.

Last week, the Commons defence committee heard once again how the threat to the British homeland has evolved far faster than British willingness to do anything about it.

This weeks announcement of government plans to finally consider the issue is long overdue. We have to wait and hope that they will lead to meaningful action.

Keir Giles is the author of Who Will Defend Europe?: An Awakened Russia and a Sleeping Continent
Get Nadine White's Race Report newsletter for a fresh perspective on the week's news Get our free newsletter from The Independent's Race Correspondent Get our free newsletter from The Independent's Race Correspondent Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Syrias interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa is visiting Paris on Wednesday for talks with President Emmanuel Macron. It's his first trip to Europe since taking office in January, and a possible opening to broader ties with Western countries.

Al-Sharaa took power after his Islamist group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), led a dayslong offensive that toppled former President Bashar Assad in December. Assad, a member of Syrias Alawite minority, ruled for more than two decades.

The presidential Elysee Palace said Macron will restate Frances support for a free, stable, sovereign Syria that respects all components of its society, while emphasizing the importance of regional stability  particularly in Lebanon  and the fight against terrorism.

The visit comes amid renewed sectarian bloodshed, coming a week after clashes between forces loyal to al-Sharaa and fighters from the minority Druze sect that left nearly 100 people dead. This followed earlier violence in Syrias coastal region between Sunni gunmen and members of the minority Alawite sect that Assad belonged to. That fighting left more than 1,000 people dead  many of them Alawite civilians killed in revenge attacks.

Religious minorities in Syria, including Alawites, Christians and Druze, fear persecution under the predominantly Sunni Muslim-led government. Al-Sharaa has repeatedly pledged that all Syrians will be treated equally regardless of religion or ethnicity.

The 14-year conflict has killed nearly half a million people and displaced millions. Syrias infrastructure lies in ruins, and international sanctions remain a major barrier to reconstruction.

The visit to Paris is being closely watched as a potential test of Europes willingness to engage with Syrias new leadership.

The Trump administration has yet to formally recognize the new Syrian government led by al-Sharaa, and HTS remains a U.S.-designated terrorist organization. Sanctions imposed on Damascus under Assad remain in place. However, Washington eased some restrictions in January when the U.S. Treasury issued a general license, valid for six months, authorizing certain transactions with the Syrian government, including some energy sales and incidental transfers.

The European Union has begun easing sanctions, suspending measures targeting Syrias oil, gas and electricity sectors, as well as transport  including aviation  and banking restrictions.

In late April, the British government announced it was lifting sanctions on a dozen Syrian entities, including government departments and state-run media outlets.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

One of the UKs most senior Catholic leaders appealed for prayers as he and other cardinals prepared for the secret voting process to elect a new pope.

Cardinal Vincent Nichols, who is one of more than 130 cardinal electors who entered the conclave on Wednesday, said he feels quite intimidated by the global attention focused on the election process.

Following a special mass in St Peters Basilica, the group entered the Sistine Chapel, cutting off all contact with the outside world, until white smoke rises into the air in Vatican City to confirm there is a new pope.

Up to four votes will be held each day, except for the first day, as proceedings will not get underway until the afternoon.

Cardinal Nichols, who is the leader of England and Wales Catholics, has been in Rome since shortly after the death of Pope Francis and described getting to know his fellow cardinals during lengthy meetings in the days since.

open image in gallery Cardinal Vincent Nichols said he feels quite intimidated by the global attention ( AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino )

The cardinal, who is also Archbishop of Westminster, said that before going into the conclave, we will have met almost 10 times in the formal meetings of the Congregation of Cardinals.

These meetings, which have been long and during which we have been very attentive to the contributions from cardinals across the world, now lead us to the conclave at which only those under 80 who will vote for the next pope in the Sistine Chapel attend.

During these days we have got to know each other and to appreciate the variety of gifts, insights and dedication among us. It is a truly universal church and a reflection of the breadth and diversity of human experience.

This conclave will have more cardinals from Africa and Asia than previous meetings, mostly chosen by the late Francis.

Cardinal Nichols, who is taking part in his first conclave, has previously spoken of the weight on the shoulders of the electing cardinals, knowing theirs is a choice which will have significant consequences for the Church on the world stage.

open image in gallery This conclave will have more cardinals from Africa and Asia than previous meetings ( Getty )

On the eve of the meeting, he said: Going into the conclave, I feel quite intimidated knowing that the outcome of this election is awaited by people all over the world and of many faiths.

The voice of the pope, especially following Pope Francis, can serve as a call to everyone to fashion a society more fitting to the dignity of every human. That is a big call.

He said cardinals are entering the meeting in a profound spirit of prayer and attentive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit who will, I am sure, guide our decisions.

The cardinal, from Liverpool, added: I do hope that Catholics and indeed all people will say a prayer asking for Gods blessing at this important moment.

Asked about his thoughts on the kind of qualities necessary for the top role in the Church, he said: I hope that the next pope will be, in his own manner of acting and speaking, an attractive expression of the invitation of God in Jesus Christ for all people to know that they are loved by God and destined for glory.

He has previously effectively ruled himself out of the running to be the next pontiff, describing himself as too old, not capable.

The cardinals have a hugely responsible task ahead of them and will not want to appear divided in their efforts, according to one UK theologian.

Cardinal Nichols is one of five cardinals across the UK and Ireland, although only three  himself, Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe and Rome-based Cardinal Arthur Roche  are younger than 80 and therefore of voting age.

open image in gallery Pope Francis was dubbed the peoples pope ( AP Photo/Andrew Medichini, File )

Professor Anna Rowlands, who spent two years seconded to the Vatican during Franciss papacy, said the cardinals will want to choose someone who can lead the Church into a new moment rather than simply replacing a man whose popularity saw him dubbed the peoples pope.

The professor of Catholic social thought and practice at Durham University said: The cardinals will have had just over a week to meet and discuss openly their priorities and to try to work together to discern who they think God is calling to be the successor to St Peter.

In their minds, this isnt so much a replacement for Francis as a moment where they are trying to work out which of them could lead the Church into a new moment.

Formal and informal meetings have been preparing them for that hugely responsible task of voting in conclave from May 7. And the eyes of the world will be watching.

No-one can be sure of the length of the conclave itself but one can assume the cardinals would prefer days rather than weeks. They will want to choose very carefully but also appear united rather than divided.

A two-thirds majority is required for someone to be elected.

The anonymous ballots are burned after voting, with black smoke from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel indicating no one has been elected, but white smoke confirming a new pope has been chosen.

What is a conclave?

A conclave refers to the secret meeting of cardinals who will gather in the Sistine Chapel to vote for the next pope.

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, it comes from the Latin meaning a room that can be locked with a key.

Vatican News  the news website connected to the Church in Rome  said 133 cardinals will take part in this conclave, which will begin on May 7.

The day will begin with mass attended by all voting cardinals in St Peters Basilica, before they enter the Sistine Chapel  and are cut off from communication with the outside world  to begin voting in the afternoon.

How long might it take?

That is anybodys guess. Each day, aside from the first, cardinals can vote four times  twice in the morning and twice in the afternoon.

Both of the most recent conclaves, in 2005 to elect Pope Benedict and 2013 to elect Pope Francis, lasted just two days.

This conclave could have begun on May 5, but the delayed starting date of May 7 might allow the cardinals to get to know one another better and find consensus on a candidate or at least the frontrunners.

Who is the next pope likely to be?

Technically, any baptised Catholic man could become the next pontiff, but it is highly unlikely the chosen one would be anyone other than a cardinal.

Only cardinals who were aged under 80 on the day of the popes death are eligible to vote, but older cardinals not sitting in conclave could be elected.

While there has been much speculation as to the frontrunners, one expert described this conclave as totally unpredictable.

open image in gallery Technically, any baptised Catholic man could become the next pontiff ( AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino, File )

UK theologian Professor Anna Rowlands said this is because the make-up of this College of Cardinals is very different from anyone thats been here to elect a pope before, with higher than usual numbers of electors from Africa and Asia, chosen by Pope Francis.

Catholic commentator Georgia Clarke said there is a tension between wanting a scholar and wanting a pastor.

We saw with Pope Benedict we very much had a scholar, and then in Pope Francis we very much had a pastor. Obviously it would be great if we could have both.

There must be some favourites, though?

As the meeting is secret, it really is just speculation. But among the names being mentioned as possible successors are Cardinal Luis Tagle, a 67-year-old from the Philippines who was said to be Franciss pick for the first Asian pope.

Others include Cardinal Peter Erdo, 72, the Archbishop of Budapest; Cardinal Reinhard Marx, 71, the Archbishop of Munich and Freising; and Cardinal Pietro Parolin, 70, an Italian who has served as Pope Franciss secretary of state since 2014.

What about the UK and Irelands cardinals?

It is not thought that any of the UK or Irish cardinals are among the favourites to succeed Pope Francis.

Cardinal Sean Brady, Irelands only Catholic cardinal, will turn 86 this summer and so is also unable to vote because of his age, as is Cardinal Michael Fitzgerald, from Birmingham, who will turn 88 in August.

Archbishop of Westminster Cardinal Vincent Nichols, from Liverpool, and the leader of Catholics in England and Wales, is taking part in conclave, as is Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe, who is from London.

open image in gallery Cardinal Sean Brady is unable to vote due to his age ( Brian Lawless/PA )

Aged 75, Cardinal Arthur Roche, from West Yorkshire and based in Rome, is the youngest of the UK and Irelands cardinals.

Both Cardinal Radcliffe and Cardinal Nichols appeared to rule themselves out of the running, soon after Franciss death was announced.

Cardinal Nichols told reporters he was too old, not capable, while Cardinal Radcliffe said he believed the Holy Spirit was far too wise to even think of me (as pope) for the shortest moment.

Scotland currently has no Catholic cardinals.

There is also Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who is Irish-born but is seen as an American cardinal, having ministered mainly in the US. He has been based in Rome for some years.

Cardinal Farrell was the one to announce the death of Pope Francis and, as camerlengo, has been the senior official ensuring the smooth running of the church until a new pontiff is chosen, including organising the meetings of cardinals preceding the conclave.

How will we know when a new pope has been elected?

All eyes will be on the colour of the smoke emerging from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel.

The ballots are burned after voting  with black smoke being emitted to indicate no one has been elected, while white smoke confirms a new pontiff.

A two-thirds majority is required for a new pope to be elected.

open image in gallery Workers install the chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel on May 2 ( AFP via Getty Images )

Catherine Wallis-Hughes, from the Catholic Voices charity mainly involving lay people in the Church, described it as really beautiful that everyone will find out at the same time  the worlds media and someone watching on their mobile phone in Guinea-Bissau, everyone who has access to the internet all together can see that white smoke.

Once a new pope accepts his election, it is usual that he would appear fairly quickly thereafter on the front balcony of St Peters Basilica which overlooks St Peters Square.

An announcement in Latin of Habemus Papam  meaning we have a pope is made alongside the new pontiffs appearance.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Slovakias populist leader on Wednesday blasted a European Union plan to halt imports of Russian natural gas by the end of 2027 to deprive President Vladimir Putin of revenue that helps fuel the war in Ukraine.

The European Commission, the bloc's executive branch, will present a detailed plan next month. It will seek to ban new gas contracts with Russia by the end of this year and phase out existing ones still in use in the 27-nation EU by the end of 2027.

Prime Minister Robert Fico said that the plan is absolutely unacceptable for Slovakia. He said that his government was ready to veto it and all Slovak representatives involved in the negotiations on the EU level would work to stop it.

Fico said that the move would be harmful for Slovakia and the entire EU, because the price of gas will increase as a result. His country has a gas delivery deal with Russia that expires in 2034, and Fico said that he would seek compensations for damages, if the plan proceeds.

The Slovak leader also rejected a proposal to halt imports of oil and nuclear fuel from Russia to the EU.

Hungary and Slovakia  whose leaders are considered to be Putins closest allies in Europe  have blocked EU military assistance to Ukraine and have been expected to oppose the European Commissions gas plans.

Fico, who is a divisive figure at home and abroad, returned to power in 2003 after his leftist Smer (Direction) party won a parliamentary election on a pro-Russia and anti-American platform. Known for his pro-Russia views, he has openly challenged the EUs policies over Ukraine.

He is set to become the only EU leader to travel to Moscow for festivities on Friday marking the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. It will be his second trip to Moscow since December.

His government has faced vocal protests against its pro-Russian stance and other policies.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

The skin is drawn so tightly over the tiny bodies of the emaciated babies in Gaza that they appear both hauntingly newborn and old at the same time.

Doctors treating the daily influx of malnourished children  starving under Israels total blockade on aid  say some are so undernourished that they have started to lose their sight.

The majority of cases are between one month and two years old, says Dr Raed Al-Baba, a gastroenterologist and nutritionist at Al-Awda Hospital in northern Gaza. He helps treat around 100 children brought in daily, mostly because of hunger.

Many children are stunted, suffering from severe diarrhoea and anaemia  Its leading to rickets, bowed knees, and even the inability to move. They cant see things well or clear as a result of malnutrition, he adds.

I hope our voices will reach the world ... because our children bear no guilt in this war.

open image in gallery Five-year-old Osama reveals severe signs of malnutrition and worsening cystic fibrosis due to a lack of food and treatment (including enzyme tablets to help him digest) in Nasser hospital, Khan Younis on May 5 ( AP )

Israel enforced a full ban on aid entering Gaza three months ago, with its top officials accusing the Hamas militant group of using aid to feed its war machine, by stealing goods and profiting from them  something the militants deny.

The devastating move has led to famine-like conditions for the two million people living there, and at least 9,000 children have been admitted for treatment of acute malnutrition since the start of the year, according to the UN childrens agency Unicef.

The Hamas-run government in Gaza says 3,500 of them are now at deaths door. On Wednesday, the Palestinian prime minister, Mohammad Mustafa, declared Gaza a famine zone and called on the entire UN system to immediately activate its mechanisms.

The crisis has had a particularly devastating impact on infants and breastfeeding and pregnant mothers. According to OCHA, the UNs humanitarian office, 92 per cent of infants aged 6-23 months and pregnant and breastfeeding mothers are not meeting their nutrient requirements.

Amnesty International has condemned it as genocide in action, describing it as part of a policy of deliberately imposing conditions of life on Palestinians in Gaza calculated to bring about their physical destruction.

The World Food Programme said last month it had run out of all food stocks in Gaza and all 25 of the WFP-supported bakeries had to close. Local volunteers told The Independent they had less than one week of supplies left to deliver.

open image in gallery Wedad Abdelaal and her 9-month-old son Khaled, who suffers from malnutrition. Her other children, Ahmed (7) and Maria (4), both show signs of malnutrition at a camp for displaced Palestinians in Khan Younis, 2 May 2025 ( AP )

In Gaza, families have described how food prices in some cases have increased tenfold  if the goods are available at all. A 25kg bag of rotten flour is just over 220, a kilo of rice is 8, and meat is completely unavailable.

As desperation has set in, it has also triggered violent looting, with aid workers describing armed individuals trying to seize the last scraps available.

There are fears the situation will only escalate, as Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced intentions to start an expanded intensive offensive against Hamas in Gaza.

Israeli troops have already taken control of approximately one-third of the 42km-long enclave, displacing the population and constructing watchtowers and surveillance posts on cleared land the military has designated as security zones. However, the new plan  which follows weeks of stalled ceasefire negotiations with Hamas  would go even further, including the indefinite seizure of parts of the Strip, the forced displacement of civilians for their own safety, and control over aid deliveries.

Extreme-right finance minister Bezalel Smotrich has warned that with this new plan, within a few months ... Gaza will be totally destroyed.

Speaking at a conference for settlements in the occupied West Bank  which are deemed illegal under international law  he added that the population of Gaza will be corralled into a tiny area in the south of Gaza.

The rest of the Strip will be empty, he added, according to The Times of Israel.

The Gazan citizens will be concentrated in the south. They will be totally despairing, understanding that there is no hope and nothing to look for in Gaza, and will be looking for relocation to begin a new life in other places.

The Independent reached out to the Israeli military, which declined to comment, and to Benjamin Netanyahus office, but has yet to receive a reply.

But the current operations within Gaza and the plan to expand have even worried the Israeli security establishment, with officials telling left-leaning daily Haaretz that the 59 or so remaining hostages in Gaza  also under the blockade  could be abandoned and die of starvation within days if the Gaza offensive expands.

open image in gallery Rahma al-Qadi cares for her 7-month-old daughter Sama, who was born with Down syndrome and suffers from malnutrition, at the malnutrition clinic in Nasser Hospital, 1 May ( AP )

It has deeply alarmed the international community. Six US senators, including Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren and Peter Welch, have asked Congresss watchdog agency to investigate whether restrictions on humanitarian aid deliveries by Israel and other foreign governments are in violation of US law, according to a letter seen by Reuters.

In Gaza, families have described how they were having to live on a single meal a day.

Bread has become a thing of the past, says Najia Abu al-Rus, a 33-year-old mother displaced five times from the southern city of Rafah, who is reduced to feeding her children rice, salt and water. She describes how her diabetic father frequently slips into comas due to the lack of food  and how they cook over fires made from burning plastic and old clothing.

The children are feeling dizzy, and skin diseases have spread due to the presence of insects.

We want nothing from the world except to stop the genocide. We want nothing else, she adds.

Mustafa al-Duhdar, 30, a volunteer relief worker, describes the situation in Gaza as terrifying in every sense of the word.

open image in gallery Palestinians struggle to get donated food at a community kitchen in Khan Younis on 5 May ( AP )

He says that the kitchen where he works to implement feeding initiatives was raided by armed gangs, who tried to take over the premises and were eventually beaten back by staff.

There may have been some hungry people who stormed the premises out of extreme hunger and desperation, searching for any food to satisfy their hunger, he says, begging the world for a single morsel of food to satisfy hunger, a sip of clean water, a safe shelter.

Even if you cannot stop the massacre, do not be complicit in the silence. Our message to the world: we are not asking for luxury. We are begging for survival.

We need the world to feel us, to hear the cry of a hungry child, and to see the tears of a grieving mother. We need life.

The war began after Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel on 7 October 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting 251. Israel says 59 captives remain in Gaza, about 35 of whom are believed to be dead.

Israels ensuing offensive has killed more than 52,000 people in Gaza, many of them women and children, according to Palestinian health officials.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Israel has corrected comments made by US president Donald Trump after he told reporters last week that 21 hostages are alive in Gaza  rather than 24  because three had died.

The claim caused alarm amongst the families of hostages, who had not been delivered this update by the Israeli government. But an official said on Wednesday that 24 hostages do still remain alive in Gaza, with figures remaining unchanged since before Trump spoke.

Gal Hirsch, Israel's coordinator for hostage issues, said in a post on X that the Palestinian militant group Hamas was holding 59 hostages of whom 24 were alive and 35 dead.

"All families of the kidnapped are always updated with the information we have about their loved ones," he said.

Speaking at an event at the White House on Tuesday, Trump said that 24 hostages were alive a week ago but the figure was now 21.

"I say 21, because, as of today, it's 21. Three have died," he said, without citing a source or providing further details.

People take part in a protest demanding the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip, in Tel Aviv, Israel, on Saturday, 26 April 2025 ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. )

Trump's comment had prompted the group representing the families of hostages to ask the Israeli government to share any new information with them immediately.

"The headquarters again calls on the prime minister to stop the war until the return of the last abductee. This is the most urgent and important national task," said a spokesperson for the group.

A total of 251 people were taken hostage during the Hamas attacks on southern Israel on 7 October 2023, in which some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed, according to Israeli tallies.

Israel has responded with an air and ground assault on Gaza that has killed more than 52,000 Palestinians, including thousands of children, according to the Hamas-run health authorities there. The Israeli offensive has displaced most of the population and reduced much of the enclave to ruins.

The fate of the hostages is a visceral issue for most Israelis and one that has caused increasing disquiet and division in Israeli society as the war has dragged on.

Hostage families and their supporters have said from the start that freeing all those abducted on October 7 should be the absolute priority.

Most of the hostages returned alive to Israel so far were released as part of deals with Hamas during two temporary ceasefires in late 2023 and early 2025.

The most recent ceasefire fell apart in March, and the families' group argues that Israel should stop the fighting and negotiate the release of the remaining hostages.

The government says its two war aims are to destroy Hamas and release the hostages. This week it has announced an expansion of its offensive on Gaza, causing consternation among the hostage families who say this will further endanger their loved ones.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Top Trump administration officials are meeting this weekend in Switzerland with representatives from China in the first major tariff discussions between the countries.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will meet with their counterparts in Geneva, the White House announced.

The Chinese Commerce Ministry on Tuesday confirmed the meeting between its vice premier and Bessent.

The Chinese side carefully evaluated the information from the U.S. side and decided to agree to have contact with the U.S. side after fully considering global expectations, Chinese interests and calls from U.S. businesses and consumers, said a ministry spokesperson.

The spokesperson emphasized, however, that China would not sacrifice its principles or global equity or justice in seeking any agreement.

Trump has imposed tariffs of 145 percent on Chinese goods, while China has set 125 percent tariffs on U.S. products, with huge consequences for both countries. China supplies a massive amount of electronics, toys, textiles and furniture to the U.S. as it buys grains and oilseeds from American farmers, as well as oil and gas.

Tariffs are paid by companies that import the products from China, such as huge retailers like Target, which typically pass on some or all of the price increases to the American consumer.

President Donald Trump claimed weeks ago that the U.S. and Cina were already negotiating lowering tariffs on the others product  which Beijing denied.

Bessent earlier Tuesday admitted in testimony to a House committee that the U.S. and China have not engaged in negotiations.

But he also said as early as this week, the U.S. would announce trade deals with some of the largest U.S. trading partners.

Trump had insisted last month that he already had 200 trade deals, but as of Tuesday not a single one had been announced.

He clarified last week in a town hall that there were actually at that time only three potential deals, and indicated he was in no rush for deals. Youre in a bigger hurry than I am, he told the town hall moderators.

Associated Press contributed to this report.
Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Get Simon Calders Travel email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

REAL ID requirements for domestic flights within the United States will take effect on Wednesday after numerous delays spanning nearly two decades.

The new regulations have prompted a surge in last-minute applications, with long lines witnessed at government offices across the country in the days leading up to the deadline.

In response to the increased demand, officials have implemented various measures to accommodate the influx of applicants. Chicago established a dedicated "Real ID Supercenter" offering walk-in appointments, while California and other states extended office hours to manage the crush of appointments.

"Im here today so I wont be right on the deadline, which is tomorrow," explained Marion Henderson, who applied for her REAL ID on Tuesday in Jackson, Mississippi, highlighting the widespread effort to secure the compliant identification.

Despite the looming deadline, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem offered reassurance to those yet to obtain a REAL ID. Individuals needing to fly domestically on Wednesday will still be permitted to travel after undergoing additional identity verification checks.

However, the process has not been without its frustrations. Some applicants expressed discontent over the lengthy wait times, with reports of individuals queuing for hours to obtain the necessary identification.

open image in gallery The day ahead of the REAL ID deadline, people lined up at government offices across the country to secure their compliant IDs ( Associated Press )

Michael Aceto, for instance, waited approximately two and a half hours at a DMV in King of Prussia, Philadelphia, before finally receiving his REAL ID on Tuesday.

Its a pain in the butt. Its really a lot of time. Everybodys got to take off from work to be here," he said. "Its a big waste of time as far as Im concerned.

The Transportation Security Administration warned people who dont have identification that complies with REAL ID requirements to arrive early at the airport and be prepared for advanced screening to avoid causing delays.

The new requirements have been the subject of many Reddit threads and Facebook group discussions in recent weeks, with numerous people expressing confusion about whether they can travel without a REAL ID, sharing details about wait times and seeking advice on how to meet the requirements.

Noem told a congressional panel that 81% of travelers already have REAL IDs. She said security checkpoints will also be accepting passports and tribal identification, like they have already been doing.

Those who still lack an identification that complies with the REAL ID law may be diverted to a different line, have an extra step, Noem said.

But people will be allowed to fly, she said. We will make sure its as seamless as possible.

REAL ID is a federally compliant state-issued license or identification card that Homeland Security says is a more secure form of identification. It was a recommendation by the 9/11 Commission and signed into law in 2005. It was supposed to be rolled out in 2008 but the implementation had been repeatedly delayed.

open image in gallery People who dont have identification that complies with REAL ID requirements are advised to arrive early at the airport and be prepared for advanced screening to avoid causing delays ( Associated Press )

The whole idea here is to better validate those individuals that were encountering a checkpoint to ensure they are who exactly they say they are, said Thomas Carter, TSAs Federal Security Director in New Jersey.

Carter said those without a REAL ID should give themselves extra time to clear security.

If they do that, I do not have a belief that this will cause people to miss their flights if they take that additional time in, he said.

Besides serving as a valid form of identification to fly domestically, people will also need a REAL ID to access certain federal buildings and facilities.

State government offices that issue driver's licenses and state IDs have seen a significant increase in demand for REAL ID and some have extended their office hours to meet the demand. Some officials have recommended people wait for a while to get REAL ID compliant licenses and cards if they don't have flight planned in the next few months.

We are encouraging people who have passports or other REAL ID-compliant documents and people who dont have travel plans in the next few months to wait until after the current rush to apply for a REAL ID, said Erin Johnson, a spokesperson with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.

Johnson said that the department has seen a significant increase in demand for REAL ID in recent weeks. In February, there were more than 48,000 applications for a REAL ID; that has nearly doubled to over 99,000 in April, she said.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

If you're desperate to explore Europe for the first time but haven't booked a trip yet because you're waiting for schedules of potential companions to align, this traveler has some advice.

"Pack your bags and take the trip  alone," says Christina Ford, a single Canadian living in London and a devoted solo vacationer.

Christina tells The Independent that "waiting is highly overrated".

Not sure where to go or feeling nervous?

Here Christina unveils top tips to set you up with a memorable solo European vacation, from must-visit places and spots to avoid to advice on making solo travel less intimidating, including advice on how to make eating out alone more awesome than awkward.

"Let's get you traveling, keep you safe, and even make you fall in love with your own company," she says.

Christina's top solo European destinations

open image in gallery Christina is pictured here in Split, Croatia, which makes her list of top places to visit if you're alone ( Christina Ford )

Croatia is first out of the blocks on Christina's top solo European destinations list, with the traveler highlighting the "easy island hopping" and the numerous Game of Thrones filming locations, such as Split and Dubrovnik.

The car-free Greek island of Hydra is also a recommendation. There, says Christina, you'll discover "poetry-inspiring beauty".

The five "charming" coastal villages that make up Cinque Terre in Italy are also an itinerary must. Christina says that the area is "ideal for solo hikers who like a glass of wine and a bowl of linguine vongole at the end of their trek".

Two more Italian destinations make the list  Rome and Florence. The former for the "history, ruins, shopping and lifetime-best gelato", and the latter because it's "great for art lovers and historians", and has "insane shopping", including "one of the best outdoor leather markets".

Lisbon and Porto in Portugal get the thumbs up, too. They're "light-filled cities with charm, affordability and friendly locals", says Christina.

She also urges first-time solo travelers to explore Spain  but to "skip Barcelona". Instead, she recommends Malaga, Seville and Ronda. "Spain is great value and offers more than you think," Christina stresses.

Places Christina avoids

Mykonos is beloved by the party-set, but it's one to steer clear of in Christina's opinion. She criticizes the Greek island as "overpriced, influencer-heavy and unwelcoming to solo travelers".

Read more: American Airlines Flagship Suite business class to debut in June on this route

Next on the list is picturesque Santorini. Surprised? Christina admits that it's "gorgeous" but warns that the Cycladic island is "filled with honeymooners" and that "everything is overpriced".

Istanbul is another destination on the no-go ranking that will raise eyebrows. Christina explains: "Beautiful, but not my first pick for solo female travelers. Best seen with a friend or two."

Ibiza is also one to ignore if you're alone. "If you're not partying, skip it," says Christina.

open image in gallery Christina recommends charming and affordable Lisbon for solo vacationers. She's pictured here at 16th-century Belem Tower in the city ( Christina Ford )

Tips for nervous first-time solo travelers

Christina urges solo travelers to book group tours, because they "allow for structured exploring and the chance to meet other travelers with shared interests".

And AI should be "used to your advantage".

Christina explains: My relationship with ChatGPT is getting serious, and for good reason. AI can act as your personal travel agent, translator, executive assistant, historian, and foodie guide all in one.

Read more: Inside the unique cabins on the worlds longest flight

Here's a prompt she reveals that she uses to help narrow down her next destination:

"I'm a woman over 50. I love European history, reasonably priced Michelin-star restaurants, walking tours through safe, vibrant streets, a sophisticated nightlife that doesn't cater to influencers taking photos of their apple martinis. I want to avoid high tourist season but still enjoy great weather. I have five nights, need a non-stop flight from (insert city), and want to go somewhere that will ignite my soul. And, oh ya did I mention shopping?"

How to make dining alone an experience you'll enjoy

"Dining alone can feel awkward or intimidating, especially at dinner," says Christina. "But it doesn't have to be."

She recommends solo adventurers choose restaurants with a bar  "they're more social"  and to avoid romantic or family style places.

"No one wants to be next to a proposal or a toddler meltdown," Christina states.

Lastly  put your phone down

Christina says: "Be open to the world around you. Strike up a conversation with someone. You'll be surprised what happens."

And she adds: "So go. Take the trip. Get a little lost. Eat the pastry."

For more from Christina visit her Instagram profile (@abroad.inlondon), TikTok account (@insearchofmrdarcy) and blog (a-broad-in-london). Her award-winning book In Search of Mr Darcy: Lessons Learnt in the Pursuit of Happily Ever After is available at all major outlets.
Taxation experts company won 4m action over UK firm misusing confidential information

A firm controlled by high-profile Irish accountant and film financier Kieran Corrigan has petitioned to have a UK businessman declared bankrupt. The move comes after Mr Corrigans company was awarded 3.5m (4.1m) in damages last year following a high court trial in London.
The closure of the Aperee Living Belgooly nursing home in Co Cork left a financial shortfall of 9m, according to a statement of affairs for the business, which was part of the much wider chain that lurched into financial crisis two years ago.
A new survey has found that more than half of Irish businesses are looking to reduce their reliance on the US in light of ongoing tensions around US president Donald Trumps tariff policies.

Irish businesses and IT firms with over 250 employees said one of their key economic concerns for the next year is a trade war with the US, the survey from consulting company Expleo said.
Netflix releases trailer for long-awaited documentary on the killing of Jason Corbett

The upcoming Netflix documentary on Irish widower Jason Corbett will be released this week.

The killers of Mr Corbett, Molly Martens and her father Tom Martens, have been interviewed for the documentary, which has been four years in the making.

Expected to be among the most-watched true crime documentaries of the year, Mr Corbetts children Jack and Sarah have also been interviewed by Netflix.

Mr Corbett first met Martens when she was in Limerick and they began a relationship before moving to the US together along with Jack and Sarah. They were married in June 2011.

Today's News in 90 seconds - 7th May 2025

On August 2, 2015, Mr Corbett died in a fatal assault carried out by Molly and Tom Martens, who pleaded self-defence.

The streaming giant has said the special, titled A Deadly American Marriage, explores the mystery of behind Jason Corbetts death and asks viewers to reflect on the elusive truths beneath a once seemingly fairytale life that ended in tragedy.

The trailer shows footage of Molly and Tom Martens being questioned following the assault on Mr Corbett and clips from their interviews with Netflix.

The father and daughter have used the documentary to continue to defend themselves and insist they acted in self-defence.

During the trailer, a visibly emotional prosecutor looking at photographs of the crime scene is heard saying: In 30 years of prosecuting, Ive never seen photographs like these.

In footage of Jack and Sarah being questioned at the time of their fathers death, when they were aged 10 and 8 respectively, one of the children is heard saying: Molly made me lie.

In their interviews for Netflix, the children remembered their father, with Jack saying he never saw Mr Corbett lay hands on Molly Martens and Sarah describing him as an amazing person.

The Martens were convicted of the second-degree murder of Mr Corbett in 2017 and served three years and eight months of 20 to 25-year sentences before the convictions were overturned.

Following a legal process, both agreed a deal with prosecutors and admitted voluntary manslaughter. Last June, they were released from a North Carolina prison having served four years and three months.

A Deadly American Marriage will be available on Netflix from Friday, May 9.
Irish farmers are shouldering annual costs of over 150 million due to bovine TB, according to a new report commissioned by the IFA, just a day ahead of a crucial Department of Agriculture summit on the disease.

The ifac-authored report reveals that the financial toll of TB eradication on farmers far exceeds the 100 million in public spending regularly cited by government. The IFA says the true cost to the farming community - including unpaid labour, veterinary fees, and loss of production - is unsustainable and must be addressed in any future strategy.

The summit, called by Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon TD for Thursday, aims to reset the national approach to TB following a sharp rise in cases. In a statement last week, the Minister acknowledged that disease levels had deteriorated to their highest point since 2003, with herd incidence up 36% since 2022.

We have reached a crossroads, Minister Heydon said. An increasing number of farm families are facing the emotional and financial hardship of a TB breakdown. We must take decisive action now.

Behind the mounting pressure is a bitter divide between farm organisations and Department officials. While officials favour tighter cattle movement controls to reduce spread, the IFA and others argue that the focus must instead shift to tackling TB in wildlife vectors such as badgers and deer, and providing more robust supports for affected farmers.

IFA Animal Health chair TJ Maher said the new report lays bare just how much farmers contribute to the TB programme  much of it unacknowledged. Labour alone, including the handling of nearly 10 million animal tests annually, accounts for over 55 million. Testing fees to vets come to 38 million, a cost which, in the UK, is covered by the government.

Other major costs include 23.4 million in lost herd productivity following a TB breakdown  such as the impact of replacing high-yield dairy cows or reduced calf value  and almost 6.5 million in additional losses due to disruption caused by testing itself.

The IFA says farmers are also left financially exposed, with income support schemes failing to compensate for these losses. Net loss from production shortfalls alone is estimated at nearly 15 million.

Weve only just received the Ministers proposals, less than 24 hours ahead of the meeting, said Maher. Our message is clear: the TB burden on farmers is not sustainable. The Minister must bring forward a plan that deals with wildlife, supports farm families and helps eliminate this disease.

The Department has yet to publish the details of the proposals to be tabled, but Minister Heydon has promised robust science-led measures to reverse the current trend.

We cannot allow our farmers or rural economy to suffer by not tackling this disease head on, he said.
latest | Woman due in court over arson attack on Dublin Bus during 2023 riots

The woman is expected to appear before Court 1 in the Criminal Courts of Justice to be charged with criminal damage to the bus at OConnell Street Lower on November 23

Gardai on the street during the riots

Neil Fetherstonhaugh Wed 7 May 2025 at 10:18

A woman is due in court this morning to be charged in relation to an arson attack on a Dublin Bus during the riots of November 23, 2023.
Bartender raised concerns with Labour TD Alan Kelly, but no law against selling zero drinks to minors

Labour TD Alan Kelly is calling on Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan to take action. Photo: Niall Carson/PA.

Health groups have warned that serving children 0.0 drinks in pubs is a gateway to alcohol for minors.

Labour TD Alan Kelly has called on Minister for Justice Jim OCallaghan to take action after being contacted about the matter by a Dublin bar worker who highlighted the issue.

Alcohol Action Ireland (AAI) said 0.0 lagers and stouts were a gateway to alcohol and wants clarity on children drinking 0.0 products.

Mr Kelly told the Irish Independent he was approached by someone who had refused a man buying pints of beer who wanted a non-alcoholic version for a child.

He asked if he was right to do that. I said that from the spirit of the law, I felt what he did was right, Mr Kelly said.

The bar worker told him the situation was difficult because he did not feel it looked right to have a drink of zero-alcohol in a childs hand.

They further explained that, to observers, a 0.0 drink is indistinguishable from an alcoholic one.

However, it is understood the situation presents a challenge because there is no law preventing the sale of 0.0 alcohol products to under-18s, and it currently falls to the publican or their staff to make a decision.

Dr Sheila Gilheany, the chief executive of AAI, said clarity is vital on the serving of 0.0 alcohol to children.

The vast majority of publicans do not serve these drinks to anyone under-age

Theres no prohibition on zero alcohol being sold to children and theres a lacuna on advertising of the products, she said.

The drinks industry says the products are not suitable for children under 18 and the ads shouldnt be directed to them, but you see situations where parents are not sure what to do.

In shops and supermarkets, zero-alcohol products are for sale, but its our understanding that a lot of shops dont sell them to under-18s. They take that stance, but theres no legal reason not to sell them to children.

Dr Gilheany said research due to be released from Australia indicates 0.0 drinks encourage children to think about alcohol.

It needs to be clarified that these are not soft drinks and they carry a risk as gateway products to alcohol for children and anyone in recovery, she added.

Pat Crotty, the Vintners Federation of Ireland CEO, said: While non-alcoholic drinks are legally permitted for sale to under-18s, we strongly advise our members to avoid serving them to minors.

The vast majority of publicans do not serve these drinks to anyone under-age. Our members take their responsibilities seriously and aim to maintain the highest standards of safety and compliance.

The priority for publicans is to act responsibly and to ensure that our venues remain safe and welcoming places for all customers.

The Irish Independent contacted the Department of Justice and several drinks companies for comment.
The Government faces demands for State payments of over 450 a week for workers in sectors hit by US tariffs.

Owen Reidy, general secretary of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, said the maximum level of a new jobseekers benefit would not cut it for staff in the pharma and food and drinks sector.

He was speaking after Ictu and Ibec sent a letter to Social Protection Minister Dara Calleary seeking a higher new scheme rate for those facing temporary lay-off or short time working.

The new Jobseekers Pay-Related Benefit (JPRB) is capped at 450 a week.

If we want to protect high skilled jobs, we need to keep people connected to employment, as close enough to the rate of pay as possible, said Mr Reidy.

If we dont do that, these people will move to other industries and sectors and those skill sets will be lost.

He said a bespoke benefit is necessary for staff in the pharma and food and drinks sector.

An Ibec spokesperson said the new JPRB scheme should be amended to support those experiencing short-time working at a higher new scheme rate.

She said training should also be facilitated from day one of unemployment.

However, she said the business organisation is not seeking an increase in the 450 cap for the new JPRB scheme for individuals who are made redundant.

However, for employees who are placed on short-time working the social protection payment has remained as a flat rate payment irrespective of earnings, she said.

Meanwhile, a senior Siptu official said Donald Trumps tariff threat will have an impact on future film productions by US companies in Ireland even if he does not carry through on it.

He called for an Irish film industry stakeholder meeting in light of the US presidents threat to implement major tariffs on foreign films.

Siptu sector organiser, Robbie Purfield, said the film and TV industry supports a large number of jobs in Ireland.

He said stakeholders within the industry must discuss a unified approach to what is a threat to all our livelihoods.

Mr Purfield said the US market is perhaps more important to the industry in Ireland than it is to any other country due to our cultural affinity and shared language.

As the union which organises film crew throughout Ireland, Siptu wishes to discuss with producers, government agencies and others in the artistic sector how best we can protect our world renowned industry from what will hopefully just be a short term shock, he said.

Irish Equity president, Gerry OBrien, said the industry is a global one and US productions need international markets and revenues to survive. This will affect the livelihoods of thousands of performers and crew across the globe and lead to a slowdown in production here, he said.

The Irish Independent has asked the Department of Social Protection for a comment.
Tax receipts for the first quarter of the year were 23.6bn, up 17.5pc on last year

The Irish economy is not heading towards recession, despite the effect of tariffs placed on exports to the US by the Trump administration, a Department of Finance report forecasts.

In its latest annual report, the department downgraded its expectations for modified domestic demand (MDD), regarded as the most accurate measure of economic performance in Ireland.

If the current tariff position remains, the projection is that MDD will grow by 2pc this year and 1.75pc next year.

Paschal Donohoe. Photo: Cillian Sherlock

Today's News in 90 seconds - 7th May 2025

National finances are still expected to show a surplus in both years, though it is currently running at a slight negative for 2025, once revenue from the 14bn Apple judgment is stripped out.

Firms and households are adopting a wait-and-see approach

The current position is that Irish exports face a 10pc tariff on sales to America, with exemptions for some sectors, including pharma.

US president Donald Trump has previously flagged that separate tariffs on pharma are on the way, though.

In relation to the labour market, employment would be forecast to increase by 1.75pc this year and by about 1pc next year. This would be equivalent to around 25,000 fewer jobs than were was expected.

It means the economy is still expected to grow, despite the tumultuous trading landscape of the post-tariff world.

However, the Irish economy will not grow as fast as had been once predicted, even if Mr Trump does not proceed with full reciprocal tariffs on the EU.

Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe said: My department expects MDD to expand by 2.5pc this year, a downward revision of almost half a percentage point from the autumn forecasts. This reflects heightened levels of uncertainty.

Even in the absence of any further changes in tariffs, there is evidence that firms and households are adopting a wait-and-see approach.

In other words, they are holding off on big-ticket purchases. This is also a feature in other economies.

Income tax was the top performer in April, up 7.5pc compared to April 2024

These forecasts were produced at the end of March on the assumption that transatlantic tariffs would not be introduced.

We have included an alternative scenario which assesses the potential impacts for the Irish economy under the current tariff landscape, Mr Donohoe said.

In this alternative scenario, the level of domestic economic activity is around 1.5 percentage points below the no-tariff baseline by the end of 2026.

New exchequer returns show a surplus of 2.8bn to the end of April. Tax receipts in the first quarter were 23.6bn, 17.5pc ahead of the same period last year. About 1.7bn of the tax yield came from the Apple settlement ordered by the European Court of Justice.

Olivia Lynch, head of tax markets at KPMG, said: Income tax was the top performer in April, with receipts of 3.5bn, up 7.5pc compared to April 2024. This growth is reflective of a buoyant Irish labour market operating at full employment.

Reflecting the continued growth in consumer spending, Vat receipts were up 0.5bn, or 6.8pc, year-on-year in the first quarter.

Government spending was 33.1bn, in line with the amount profiled by departments, but an increase of almost 10pc on this time last year.
Irish woman Cliona Ward who was detained in the United States at an Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention centre is due to be released.

Ms Wards family confirmed that she is due to be released after a court appearance.

Ms Wards sister Tracey told RTEs Prime Time that the family have been told she will be released later today. Ms Ward, a resident of California and holder of a green card which entitles her to permanently reside in the US, was detained on April 21 after visiting her father in Ireland.

Irish woman in the US Cliona Ward

Today's News in 90 seconds - 7th May 2025

Speaking to RTE, Tracey said it was a huge, huge relief that her sister is set to be released.

"I was trying to maintain hope today but I know how the system works over there so I was very fearful for her. I'm just completely relieved," she said.

"The outpouring of love worldwide that we've received has been absolutely unbelievable."

Family, friends and colleagues were set to gather in solidarity outside the detention centre in Washington state before the hearing today.

Cliona, who has lived legally in America for decades, is originally from Dublin but lives in Santa Cruz, California.

She is being detained by ICE over minor convictions from almost 20 years ago, which were supposed to have been expunged from her record.

Her sister Tracey previously said that they feared it might be as late as August before she could stand before a judge.

She had six convictions, including two felonies for possession of drugs and four misdemeanours for minor offences, and one for "failure to notify DMV [Department of Motor Vehicles] of address change within 10 days.

However, the convictions were expunged as she pleaded guilty to the charges.
Europol executive director, Catherine de Bolle (right), with Muriel O'Driscoll and Minister for Justice, Jim O'Callaghan.

Europol boss Catherine de Bolle said the late Garda Assistant Commissioner John O'Driscoll was crucial in improving Irish cooperation with international law enforcement.

Ms de Bolle, the Executive Director of Europol, last night received the inaugural John O'Driscoll award for International Cooperation.

"John embodied good, honest policing, and this award is a reflection of his professional achievements," she said.

"He laid the foundations for collaboration with Europol and with police forces in Europe and beyond to find to fight criminal groups.

"In fact, he was instrumental in setting up an international law enforcement coalition involving Europol, amongst other partners such as the USA and the United Arab Emirates.

"This coalition played a crucial role in dismantling this group and reducing their impact on society."

Ms de Bolle received the award at the opening day of the European Anti-Financial Crime Summit 2025, which involves 700 delegates from banking, fintech and regulatory authorities.

She was presented with award by Muriel O'Driscoll, wife of the late John ODriscoll, and Jim O'Callaghan, the Minister for Justice.

Appointed assistant garda commissioner for special crime operations in 2016, John O'Driscoll played a key role in combatting became the Kinahan organised crime group. He served in An Garda Siochana for 41 years, retiring in 2022. He passed away in September 2024. He was survived by his wife Muriel and his three children; Michelle, Laura and Sean.

Ms O'Driscoll said: "Losing John so suddenly last September has been very difficult for us, but moments like tonight remind us that his spirit is still very much alive.

"He touched so many lives with his kindness, friendship, loyalty and dedication, and we as his family have seen that reflected in the generosity and support shown to us over the past few very difficult months.

"His legacy is one of dedication, resilience and an enduring commitment to justice.

"He leaves behind a profound impact on Irish law enforcement enforcement, and a lasting example of what it means to live a life of purpose.

"Catherine de Bolle, Europol Executive Director, is someone I know John would have respected deeply. Europol played a major role in many of the international investigations John led."

Mr O'Callaghan said John ODriscoll played a leading role in Irish efforts to fight international crime groups.

"He was instrumental in efforts that led to our US partners offering substantial rewards for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the leaders of the Kinahan organised crime group," Mr O'Callaghan said.

"I think it is fair to say that without John O'Driscoll's work, Ireland would not have signed an extradition treaty with the United Arab Emirates last year. This puts more pressure on those who lead these groups and seek to profit from the misery of others by removing another haven where they believe they can evade justice."

He added: "This is one of John O'Driscoll enduring legacies, the building of a lasting network of cooperation with partners across borders to share intelligence, expertise and knowledge.

"It is a testament to John O'Driscoll that Ireland [is] in a better place now to dismantle these groups because of the cooperation and information sharing that John spearheaded."

The European Anti-Financial Crime Summit 2025 is organised by Dublin-based company AML Intelligence, the leading source of global regulatory intelligence on anti-financial crime and fraud for banks and fintechs.

John Berrigan, Irelands most senior civil servant in the European Union, will also be honoured with an award at the event.

He will receive the AML Champion 2025 award from Eurogroup president and Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe.

Mr Berrigan is director general of the European Commissions financial services division, DG FISMA (Directorate-General for Financial Stability, Financial Services and Capital Markets Union). He played a leading role in the establishment of the EU's new Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA).
Two new grave markers have been installed at St Multose churchyard in Kinsale to mark the 110th anniversary today of the sinking of the RMS Lusitania.

Ship stewards George Cranston and Richard Chamberlain, interred in a double grave, have new stones. The former was previously buried under the misnomer Craduck.

Newlywed passenger Margaret Shineman is buried in the same graveyard. The remains of her husband of only two weeks, James, washed up in Co Clare months after the sinking and were interred in Carrigaholt.

The Cunard Line passenger vessel was about 20km off the Old Head of Kinsale when it was torpedoed without warning by the German submarine U-20, commanded by Walther Schwieger, on Friday, May 7, 1915.

A total of 1,198 people died in the tragedy, with justification for the act of war heavily disputed.

The German embassy in the US had taken out adverts proclaiming that passenger ships of belligerent countries were liable to attack in a zone drawn around these islands.

Few believed the threat would be carried out and there were only a handful of cancellations before the Lusitania  an Atlantic liner which could easily outrun any U-boat on the surface  left New York for Liverpool on its final voyage.

However, it was struck by Schwiegers last remaining torpedo as the U-boat headed home to Germany after a long patrol.

The ship sank in only 18 minutes, compared with the two hours and 40 minutes it took the Titanic to sink three years earlier after hitting an iceberg in the mid-Atlantic.

Last night, associates of the Signal Tower group, who administer a museum dedicated to the disaster, met at the Old Head to mark 10 years in existence, in the company of some relatives of victims and survivors.

There will be a further ceremony today from 2pm, marking the hour of the attack.
The site of the vandalism in Celbridge.

The site of the vandalism in Celbridge.

The site of the vandalism in Celbridge.

The site of the vandalism in Celbridge.

OPW vehicles have been attacked and wrecked by vigilantes in an incident apparently linked to access to historic Castletown House in Celbridge.

Confirming "a number of incidents" last weekend at Donaghcumper House in the town, the OPW said there had been fire damage to outbuildings and staff welfare facilities.

The property is used to transfer staff to and from Castletown House, where there is a major access row and deep unhappiness over landholding rights.

The site of the vandalism in Celbridge.

"Over the course of the May Bank Holiday weekend a number of OPW and contractor vehicles as well as four CCTV towers on the site were significantly damaged," the OPW told the Irish Independent.

Minister of State for the Office of Public Works, Kevin Boxer Moran, TD commented: "This criminal damage to State property owned and managed by the OPW is shocking and unacceptable."

The site of the vandalism in Celbridge.

Today's News in 90 seconds - 7th May 2025

A Garda investigation is underway, with the cost of the damage to the OPW predicted to be in excess of 500,000.

"I would urge anyone with information to contact An Garda Siochana," Mr Moran said.

"At this time, the safety and wellbeing of OPW staff is of paramount importance, he added.

The site of the vandalism in Celbridge.

The OPW already has significant security infrastructure in place at Donaghcumper and has added to this on the advice of An Garda Siochana, it is understood.

On Thursday, April 10, 2025, staff of the OPW returned to their workplace in Castletown House after months away.

"To provide access for OPW staff to their workplace, they reported to Donaghcumper House, Celbridge, and were transported via OPW-owned and branded vehicles to Castletown House.

The site of the vandalism in Celbridge.

"Over the period April 22-30, 2025 a number of incidents took place in the Donaghcumper House site, including fire damage to outbuildings and staff welfare facilities."

This culminated in last weekend's attack in which it is understood that a teleporter may have been used to flip vehicles onto their rooves before they were further wrecked.

It has been claimed that the teleporter was subsequently dumped in the river Liffey.
SIX foreign ministers have issued a protest against Israel's intended final assault, conquest and occupation of Gaza.

Ireland is joining the Foreign Ministers of Iceland, Luxembourg, Norway, Slovenia and Spain in expressing "grave concern about the reported Israeli plans."

The expansion of military operations in Gaza to establish a prolonged Israeli presence in the strip. would mean "crossing yet another line," says Tanaiste Simon Harris with his colleagues in the joint communique.

It would marking a dangerous new escalation and jeopardise any prospects of a viable Two-State solution, the Fopreign Ministers declare.

"A further military escalation in Gaza will only exacerbate an already catastrophic situation for the civilian Palestinian population and threaten the lives of the hostages that remain in captivity," says the statement, simultaneously issued by the six states..

"We firmly reject any demographic or territorial change in Gaza, including any scheme that would force or facilitate the permanent displacement of its population, in violation of international law.

A makeshift tent camp for displaced Palestinians in Gaza City (Jehad Alshrafi/AP)

Today's News in 90 seconds - 7th May 2025

"We also strongly oppose a system that does not ensure that the entire population gets access to humanitarian aid. Gaza is an integral part of the State of Palestine, which belongs to the Palestinian people."

The statement comes a day after the Palestinian Ambassador expressed regret on radio that Ireland was the only country in Europe to so far condemn the planned Israeli attack.

For more than two months, Israeli authorities have blocked all humanitarian aid and commercial supplies from reaching the civilian Palestinian population in Gaza.

Despite repeated calls on Israel to lift these measures and to facilitate relief, "Israel has instead further tightened, rather than eased, the measures," the foreign ministers say.

"We call on Israel to immediately lift the blockade. It is essential to facilitate relief for all civilians in need, without discrimination, and to follow the other humanitarian principles of impartiality, independence and neutrality."

Together, the six ministers, including Mr Harris as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence, called on the Israeli authorities to show restraint.

"We further call on Israel to take all necessary and effective measures to ensure, without delay, in full cooperation with the United Nations and humanitarian organisations."

They want the unhindered provision at scale of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance.

Israel has proposed aid "hubs", which it would administer, using private security companies -- which the United Nations has rejected outright.

"What is needed more urgently than ever is a resumption of a ceasefire, and the unconditional release of all hostages," the statement says.

"We reaffirm our unwavering support for the two-state solution  Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security."

The communique is signed by Thorgerdur Katrin Gunnarsdottir of Iceland, Xavier Bettel of Luxembourg, Espen Barth Eide of Norway, Tanja Fajon of Slovenia, and Jose Manuel Albares Bueno of Spain, in addition to Mr Harris.
Eurovision organisers have refused to back down on their stance of including Israel in the song contest after RTE boss Kevin Bakhurst asked them about the issue.

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) said it would support Israeli public service broadcaster Kan against the threat of being shut down by Benjamin Netanyahus government.

RTE director general Kevin Bakhurst said he had sought a discussion with the EBU on Israels inclusion in the song contest.

He said he was appalled by the ongoing events in the Middle East and the horrific impact on civilians in Gaza, and the fate of Israeli hostages.

Spokesperson Martin Green, director of the Eurovision Song Contest, said: We understand the concerns and deeply held views around the current conflict in the Middle East.

The EBU is not immune to global events but, together, with our members, it is our role to ensure the contest remains  at its heart  a universal event that promotes connections, diversity and inclusion through music. We all aspire to keep the Eurovision Song Contest positive and inclusive and aspire to show the world as it could be, rather than how it necessarily is.

The EBU has previously suspended Russia from the competition over the Ukraine war.

When asked the criteria for Russias suspension, he said it was clear the Russian broadcasters were clearly aligned with the Russian government following the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

This resulted in the suspension of the Russian broadcasters from the EBU, in May 2022, due to persistent breaches of membership obligations, he said.

He said the EBU was association of public service broadcasters, not governments, who were all eligible to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest every year if they meet the requisite requirements.

It is not our role to make comparisons between conflicts, he said. As part of its mission to secure a sustainable future for public service media, the EBU is supporting our Israeli member Kan against the threat from being privatised or shut down by the Israeli government.

Norwegian singer Emmy is representing Ireland. Photo: Andres Poveda

Today's News in 90 seconds - 7th May 2025

The EBU remains aligned with other international organisations that have similarly maintained their inclusive stance towards Israeli participants in major competitions at this time.

Mr Bakhursts statement about contacting the EBU came after NUJ members in RTE called on the broadcaster to oppose Israels participation in the contest. As well as writing to the director general, journalists sent a letter to EBU director general Noel Curran, who is a former director general of RTE.

Notwithstanding the fact that the criterion for participating in the Eurovision Song Contest is membership of the European Broadcasting Union, RTE has nonetheless asked the EBU for a discussion on Israels inclusion in the contest, said Mr Bakhurst.

In doing this, we are mindful of RTE's obligations as an independent, impartial public service news and current affairs provider, and of the need to maintain RTEs objectivity in covering the war in Gaza. We are also very mindful of the severe political pressure on Israels public service broadcaster, Kan, from the Israeli government."

Trevor Keegan, the chair of an RTE sub-branch of the union, said: The formal stance of the Irish state is reflected in strong public sentiment across Ireland, which abhors Israels actions.

RTE director general Kevin Bakhurst. Photo: PA

The letter to Mr Bakhurst said Icelands public broadcaster RUV had joined broadcasters in Slovenia and Spain in publicly opposing Israels participation in the song contest.

This week (April 30), during an open UN Security Council debate, Fergal Mythen, Ireland's permanent representative to the UN, described what is happening in Gaza and the West Bank as indicative of a complete disregard for international law, the UN Security Council and the integrity of the United Nations as an institution.

RTE education correspondent Emma O Kelly, the chair of the Dublin Broadcasting Branch of the National Union of Journalists, said the union welcomed Mr Bakhursts statement.

This makes Ireland the fourth country to be questioning Israels involvement in this years competition, she said. Were doing this for a reason and were waiting for a response to see what the EBU will do and hoping the EBU will make the right call on this and expel Israel.

She said an earlier statement by the EBU avoided the single most important issue  that is, what is currently happening in Gaza. The Irish public wont buy it.

In a weekend interview, Norwegian singer Emmy  who will represent Ireland at this years contest  cited a new EBU code of conduct when asked what she makes of Israels participation in the contest.

Im not sure Im allowed to talk about it too much. But what I can say is that I feel like my most important job as an artist and as a songwriter is to bring comfort and happiness, as much as I can, through songs  especially in hard times, she said.
Pictured at the National Career Skills Competition by Careers Portal at the Department of Education was winner Anna Morrisey from Presentation Secondary School Kilkenny. Photo: Gary Ashe

Katie Hannon from Castlerea Community School, Maissane Chabria from Our Lady's Grove Secondary School, Goatstown, Anna Morrissey from Presentation Secondary School Kilkenny, Valeriia Stepanenko from Ramsgrange Community School and Eva Ni Threinfhir from Colaiste Oiriall Muineachan. Photo: Gary Ashe

Sailing a boat from the Netherlands to Dublin, shadowing politicians, working on a dairy farm and working at a five-star hotel were among the placements undertaken by secondary school students who entered this years Career Skills Competition.

The annual competition, run by CareersPortal, is open to students who wish to explore a potential future career.

The top 29 students were honoured at a ceremony at the Clock Tower in the Department of Education on Wednesday, alongside their families, teachers and guidance counsellors.

Winners were chosen from nearly 1,400 entrants who explored a career and entries were made in English or Irish, either through a written submission or a vlog.

National Careers Skills competition winner Aoibh Killeen Boland from Castlerea Community School. Photo: Gary Ashe

Among the students honoured at the event was Valeriia Stepanenko, the first place winner in the Leaving Cert category.

Valeriia, whose goal is to become a diplomat, arrived in Ireland from Ukraine in 2022 and has settled in Ramsgrange, Co Wexford. Fluent in English, Ukrainian and Russian, she volunteered with local enterprises and the county council before shadowing Labour Party TD, George Lawlor.

"This competition continues to showcase the incredible talent, curiosity, and ambition of Irelands young people. By exploring real-world careers and reflecting on the skills theyve developed, students are not only planning for their futures  theyre actively shaping them, CareersPortal managing director, Eimear Sinnott, said at the event.

Katie Hannon from Castlerea Community School, Maissane Chabria from Our Lady's Grove Secondary School, Goatstown, Anna Morrissey from Presentation Secondary School Kilkenny, Valeriia Stepanenko from Ramsgrange Community School and Eva Ni Threinfhir from Colaiste Oiriall Muineachan. Photo: Gary Ashe

The nearly 1,400 students who entered the Career Skills Competition explored more than 200 different careers from farming, horticulture and forestry to construction, architecture and property.

Brendan Owens of Research Ireland and the European Space Education Resource Office (ESERO) Ireland, said: ESERO Ireland is proud to support this award to spotlight a student who brings to light the reality of a career in Space Science, Maths or Physics, busting stereotypes and uncovering the amazing opportunities that lie ahead of young people.

Pictured at the National Career Skills Competition by Careers Portal at the Department of Education was winner Anna Morrisey from Presentation Secondary School Kilkenny. Photo: Gary Ashe

The winners in each of the competitions categories received MacBook Air laptops while second-place winners received iPads and third-place students received Apple Airpods.

All commended students received prizes and four schools each received 1,000 to support their career guidance programmes.

Organisers said there was a notable rise in the level of interest in politics among the students who took part, while there was also growing interest in apprenticeships in trades like carpentry and engineering.

Healthcare, including medicine and nursing, was also a popular choice. Teaching also remained popular but saw its interest drop compared to previous years.
Remind them of how beautiful and unique they are  parents of red-haired children on bullying, envy and to dye or not to dye

Its not unusual to hear of kids being bullied due to their flame-coloured locks. Here, Arlene Harris speaks to mums about how theyve dealt with the teasing and helped build their childrens self-esteem

Theresa Lennon says some of her family have been singled out because of their red hair

Arlene Harris Wed 7 May 2025 at 03:30

The stereotypical image of an Irish person is one with pale, freckled skin and red hair  and while many dont have these physical traits, according to research from World Population Review, at least 10pc of Irish people are graced with flame-coloured hair, making us the red-headed capital of Europe, with the UK not far behind us at six per cent, distinctly higher than the global average of one to two per cent.
All eyes are on the Vatican as the conclave of cardinals tasked with selecting the next pope begins Wednesday. The meeting represents one of the oldest, enduring traditions of political ascension in the world. The so-called princes of the church will process into the Sistine Chapel, intoning the Litany of the Saints ahead of the eventual casting of ballots in an urn. Voting is surrounded by secretive deliberations. Outside, the public will await a tellt-ale puff of white smoke from a chimney atop the Apostolic Palace signaling that the cardinal electors have chosen a successor to Pope Francis.

The Argentine pontiff was the first leader of the Vatican from the Americas, and speculation is rife that the next pope may come from Africa or Asia. An institution that once embodied the cultural and political authority of Western Christendom has steadily been globalized - a reflection of the evolving demographic realities of the Roman Catholic world, as well as the specific efforts made by Francis to deepen the Churchs reach and influence outside the West and in the peripheries, as he put it himself.
Palestinians collect belongings from a school used as a shelter by displaced residents that was hit twice by Israeli army strikes, killing more than 25 people, in Bureij, central Gaza. Photo: AP

With respect, I disagree with recalling the Irish ambassador in Israel as per John Cuffes earnest plea (Government should get off the fence and recall ambassador from Israel, Irish Independent, Letters, May 7).

On Tuesday, the disgusting statement by Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich that Gaza will be entirely destroyed follow an Israeli security cabinet decision to approve Operation Gideons Chariots, which an unnamed Israeli official called the conquest of the Gaza Strip and the holding of the territories.

For this reason alone it is important that Ireland has an ambassador in Israel to document the slaughter of men, women and children, and to bring the objections of the Government and people of Ireland to the attention of the Israeli government.

Under the premiership of Benjamin Netanyahu, it appears to all intents and purposes hell-bent on a genocide of the legal inhabitants of the Gaza Strip.

Such an act of attrition is no different from the Holocaust of the Jewish people throughout World War II.

Recalling the ambassador would be falsely interpreted as an antisemitic act. Rather, the Irish Government must reinforce its opposition to the genocide of human beings by the government of Israel.

We witness daily the broad- ranging greeting Shalom being trampled on. It is time to stand outside the Israel embassy in Dublin and chant Shalom loudly. No political banners, no flags, just the chant  the people of Ireland protesting against the government of Israel.

Declan Foley, Melbourne, Australia

Kneecap are saying what the silent majority might be too afraid to verbalise

I commend Ian ODoherty for supporting Kneecaps right to free speech (Kneecap are not free-speech martyrs  let them spread their stupid nonsense, because the alternative is far worse, Irish Independent, May 7).

He refers to John Stuart Mills book, On Liberty, with free speech being a fundamental building block of a liberal society.

But the English philosopher also said democratic ideals may result in the tyranny of the majority.

Put simply, tyranny of the majority refers to a situation in majority rule where the preferences and interests of the majority dominate the political landscape, potentially sidelining or repressing minority groups and using majority rule to take non-democratic actions.

Nowhere is this more evident than in Israel, with the administrations agenda to stifle free speech by labelling any criticism of its actions as antisemitic.

Last week your columnist referred to what he termed the small matter of the unpleasantness in the Middle East. I thank God for artists like Kneecap because they are verbalising what a silent majority are afraid to say.

Tom McElligott, Listowel, Co Kerry

Efforts to influence how the papal conclave votes undermines its integrity

Ellen Coynes report that Declan Ganley helped finance a lavish conservative Catholic gathering in Rome, timed just before the conclave, raises serious questions about the politicisation of the papacy (Declan Ganley, a ball in Rome and the push for an Irish-American pope, Irish Independent, May 7).

While individuals may advocate for certain candidates, efforts to influence the churchs direction through elite fundraising and private meetings with cardinals risk undermining transparency and spiritual integrity.

The suggestion that the next pope should be someone who knows everything there is to know about Trump will trouble many Catholics.

Given Mr Trumps well-documented disregard for truth, humility and compassion, it is difficult to see how such a model aligns with the moral leadership expected of the church.

Enda Cullen, Tullysaran Road, Armagh

Presidents plan to reopen Alcatraz is so ironic as he could have been an inmate

Its ironic that President Donald Trump is pushing to have Alcatraz reopened  had things worked out differently in the last presidential election, he might have ended up an inmate there.

So, Donald, be careful what you wish for  no one knows what the future holds.

Seamus McLoughlin, Keshcarrigan, Co Leitrim

Global is all very well, but how about shifting some of the focus to domestic?

Taoiseach Micheal Martin and Tanaiste Simon Harris acquitted themselves at the Global Ireland Summit.

Perhaps now would be a good time for the Government to organise a summit without the word Global. Such a summit might hear the similar pronouncements from our esteemed leaders on the state of our own country and the actions necessary to improve the lives of the people.

An Tanaiste might use a slightly edited version of his Global Summit speech and declare that the Government cannot and will not stand idly by and watch one in five of our young people intent on emigrating (or maybe change that to evacuating), cannot stand idly by and watch the waiting list for scoliosis surgery grow by the month; cannot stand idly by and watch homelessness continue to increase at an alarming rate; and cannot stand idly by and watch the continuing immigration crisis cause severe stress and unrest among communities.

Peter Declan OHalloran, Belturbet, Co Cavan

Addiction cannot be easily overcome through simple application of willpower

When Brendan Corrigan says One still chooses to open that bottle, snort that cocaine, gamble on that race, etc, he wrongly dismisses the addictive genes that predispose some of us to compulsive and irrational behaviour and betrays a privileged lack of understanding of addiction (Irish Independent, Letters, May 6).

Why is it that, for some people, one more drink, snort, injection, smoke, purchase, bite or bet (as limited examples) is never enough?

Why is it that no matter how grievously the addict may have injured themselves or others the last time they gave in, they always have the capacity for one more go?

Why is it that the compulsion can be generational, recurring across the length and breadth of some family trees, and skipping generations in a way that removes the possibility of it merely being learned behaviour?

It is because addiction is not a choice or an offer that addicts can simply refuse.

Killian Foley-Walsh, Kilkenny
News

Man appears in court accused of multiple unprovoked attacks against women in Athlone

A man has appeared in court charged with a series of unprovoked attacks against women in a midlands town during which he allegedly told one female: Do you want a piece of this? Ill f****** kill you, you b****.
Two men were arrested in Dublin yesterday

A man in his 30s will appear before Cork District Court this evening, charged in connection with an arson attack on an elderly couple's house last month.

He is one of two who were arrested in connection with the arson attack in Dublin yesterday by Gardai from Cork.

The couple in their 80s, who were described as lovely neighbours and very witty, were in the house when the attack happened late on Thursday, April 24. They were treated for smoke inhalation by Cork City Fire Brigade and are currently staying with family with the house needing significant repairs.

Gardai have confirmed that as part of an ongoing investigation into the incident, two individuals were arrested during an operation in the Dublin area yesterday (May 6).

As part of that operation, detectives from Cork also searched two residential properties in the capital.

Two men, both aged in their 30s, were arrested under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act.

One is due to appear at Court District Court later this afternoon (May 7), while the second is still in custody at a Garda station in Cork City.

The pair can be detained for up to 12 hours, when they will either have to be released or charged in connection with the incident.

It took Cork City Fire Brigade over two hours to bring the blaze at the front of the house under control.

Gardai say the investigation is ongoing.
A driver with a Cork address was ordered to pay 750 to the Cashel District Court poor box for using a false Belgian driving licence in Ireland.

Garda Felim Canty told Judge Brian OShea that he stopped a vehicle at the M8, Clonmore, North Tipperary, on November 2, 2024, for speeding.

The driver was Emmanuel Idegu, who gave an address of Glenvera Accommodation Centre, Wellington Road, Cork. Garda Canty took a photo of Mr Idegus ID and sent it to Interpol. The serial number on the ID showed it was a false Belgian document.

Mr Idegu was charged with having in his custody, on under his control, an instrument to wit, a Belgian drivers licence which was and which he knew or believed to be a false instrument. He was also charged with driving without a valid driving licence.

Judge OShea said he obviously made a foolish mistake. Mr Idegu was ordered to pay 750 to the court poor box, and if he did so the matter would be dealt with by way of the Probation Act, meaning he would not receive a criminal conviction.

If this was not paid, Mr Idegu would receive a 500 fine and a conviction. The case was adjourned to October 2 next.
Actor revisits his old haunts in Dublin for interview with Hollywood Authentic

Barry Keoghan brings Hollywood Authentic to his old primary school in Dublin

Barry Keoghan has jokingly reminisced about getting into 150 fights in the yard of his old primary school in Dublin.

The actor and Hollywood star recently returned to his roots in Dublin 1, accompanied by photographer Greg Williams, for an interview in Hollywood Authentic.

Filmed in March, the video offers fans a glimpse into Barrys early life as it showcases the formative places in Dublin that shaped him.

The actor, known for his roles in Dunkirk, Banshees of Inisherin, and Saltburn, opened up about his journey from growing up in Summerhill, to being thrust into international stardom.

During the interview, Barry revisits his OConnell Primary School near Croke Park, where he reconnects with his former deputy headteacher.

He fondly remembers performing in his first Christmas play there  a production of Oliver  in the schools PE Hall, and poses for pictures with staff and pupils.

Barry Keoghan outside Cineworld on Parnell Street

In the Hollywood Authentic video, Barry reflects on how mad it feels to return to the very place where he spent his early years.

Recalling his time in the schoolyard, he admits: I had many fights out there  150!

Growing up in Dublin, Barry and his brother spent several years in foster care after the tragic death of their mother, who battled heroin addiction.

Barry speaks candidly about how his turbulent early years, living in 14 different foster homes, influenced both his development and his career.

He found solace in acting, drawing early inspiration from classic films like Cool Hand Luke and performances by Marlon Brando.

He credits these films with teaching him about male behaviour and composure in the absence of a father figure.

He also shares how his acting career began when he saw a notice for a local film role outside a shop in the north inner city.

The ad was seeking young males with no previous acting experience, and those who had scramblers and bikes.

For Barry, it was just an opportunity to earn 120 and take a break from school. However, the role in crime drama Between the Canals helped kickstart his career.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content

The actor also spoke openly about how his own struggles with addiction led to a stint in rehab.

Niall [his driver] literally drove me and put me on a plane himself, came with me and brought me to the rehab in England, he told Hollywood Authentic.

I went back to visit. It was nice to see the staff again, and for them to see the change in me. They were quite emotional about it. Im forever grateful.

In the video, he also visited Cineworld on Parnell Street which he said he used to sneak into on a regular basis before eventually getting barred.

When he later showed up to the cinema for the premiere of Dunkirk, he was turned away at first, before explaining to staff that it was a movie he was starring in.
New legislation has been introduced to protect retail workers against assault, threats, harassment, and abuse while on the job.

The Protection of Retail Workers Act 2025 is aimed at amending the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994 to create specific offences for assaulting, threatening, harassing, or abusing retail workers while they are carrying out their employment.

The move comes amid a concerning rise in retail crime nationwide. Recent statistics show a 12pc increase in theft and related offences over the past year, with almost half of that linked to shop thefts.

The total cost of retail crime is estimated at 1.62bn per year, and Ireland has the highest cost per capita for retail crime in the world, according to the Global Retail Theft Barometer.

Retail workers across Ireland are on the front line every day, yet they are increasingly subjected to theft, abuse, harassment, and violent attacks, Senator Mary Fitzpatrick said.

It is unacceptable that these workers, who provide essential services in every community, are not afforded specific legal protections.

The Protection of Retail Workers Act 2025 will recognise the risks they face and ensure those who threaten or harm retail staff are held to account.

I have listened closely to retailers and to organisations like RGDATA who have made it clear we need stronger laws, tougher penalties, and better support for retail workers.

I have met with retailers on the ground and with the Minister for Justice to push for real solutions.

Retail crime is not just about financial loss, its about the emotional and physical impact on staff who deserve to feel safe at work.

Ms Fitzpatrick stressed that stronger legal protections are just one part of the response needed.

We need to send a clear message that attacking a retail worker is not a minor offence  it is a serious crime, she added.

We also need greater garda visibility in retail areas, stronger employer support, and a cultural shift to recognise and respect the vital role retail workers play in our communities.

Safety concerns are also growing, with 78pc of Mandate trade union members believing their employer does not provide adequate safety measures.
A group of residents in Sandymount has repeated calls for a controversial cycle lane to be located off-road.

The recent AGM of the Sandymount and Merrion Residents Association (SAMRA) saw a record turnout, with the planned cycleway on Strand Road one of the key issues.

The meeting was also attended by local councillors and Dublin Bay South TDs Jim OCallaghan, Ivana Bacik and Eoin Hayes.

While Dublin City Council (DCC) has yet to make a final decision, the communitys views were strongly in favour of an off-road solution which would take the safety of residents and traffic congestion into account.

SAMRA, while not opposed to the cycleway in principle, has voiced its preference for it to be integrated into the Sandymount Flood Alleviation Scheme, which is already in the design phase and has undergone public consultation.

SAMRA believes this would create a safer, more sustainable solution for everyone, reducing the impact of thousands of vehicles currently using Strand Road and preventing the increased traffic from spilling into surrounding residential streets.

A resident who attended the AGM voiced concern over the impact of the proposed cycleway on local traffic, noting that the closure of Strand Road for Irish Water works had already caused significant disruption.

Another person said her newborn baby will have reached school age before an off-road cycleway is completed as part of the flood defence project.

Residents expressed frustration that, despite the ongoing public consultation, the timeline for the flood alleviation project would not see construction begin until 2029.

In addition to addressing traffic and safety concerns, the AGM highlighted the importance of engaging with the community before any final decisions are made.

SAMRA has formally requested that DCC consult widely with residents and stakeholders, particularly given the diverse views expressed at the meeting.

Several local councillors, including Hazel Chu and David Coffey, voiced support for the off-road cycleway solution, acknowledging the need for further consultation and careful consideration of the communitys needs.

Deputy Ivana Bacik also expressed her support for a compromise solution, advocating for the safety of both cyclists and pedestrians.

It is vital to deliver something [for cyclists]; a compromise on Strand Road, for the safety of children and adults, she said.

Labour councillor Dermot Lacey said the reality is that a cycleway off-road could have been built already.

90pc of it could have been completed by now, he said.

The reality favours an off-road solution, but the power rests with the DCC executive who can impose what they want.

In April, the Court of Appeal overturned a High Court decision that had blocked the cycleways development, giving Dublin City Council the green light to proceed with plans for the Strand Road cycleway.

The cycleway, which would link the existing Sutton to Sandycove cycleways, aims to create a continuous, physically protected route from the citys northside to the southside.

While the communitys concerns over traffic and disruption remain, the court decision ensures the council now has the legal authority to implement the cycleway.
133 new homes and a creche form part of the plans

The development provides for 133 new homes, with the majority consisting of three bedrooms. Credit: Model Works Ltd

A model of the proposed development in Cullairbaun, Co Galway. Credit: Model Works Ltd

Galway County Council has granted conditional permission for the construction of a development consisting of 133 homes on a 3.8-hectare site in Athenry.

Located along the L-3105 in Cullairbaun, the approved development is bordered by the existing Cluain Lara and Caislean Ri housing estates and will provide a substantial increase to housing figures in Athenry.

Overall, the development will consist of 109 three-bedroom homes, with the remaining homes consisting of 12 one-bedroom apartments, ten houses with two bedrooms and two with four bedrooms.

The development provides for 133 new homes, with the majority consisting of three bedrooms. Credit: Model Works Ltd

The approved development is approximately 800m from Athenry town and will be accessible via two vehicular access points along the L-3105 as well as pedestrian and cycle lanes.

The application also contains provisions for the renovation of the existing Cullairbaun House to be used as a pre-school creche as well as 185 car parking spaces, 374 bicycle parking spaces and communal open spaces consisting of both hard and soft landscaping.

Submitted by Athenry Ventures Ltd, the plan is subject to 35 conditions, including provisions for pedestrian and traffic safety on the L-3105 and within the developments boundaries, as well as electric vehicle charging spaces, public lighting and landscape management.

The developer must also pay 659,185 to the planning authority as a contribution towards the cost of the services which will facilitate the proposed development.
A total of six short films were produced for the occasion, with staff stepping into acting roles for beloved titles such as Calendar Girls, Misery, The Snapper, Sister Act, Forrest Gump, and Father Ted.

A committee at Munster Technological University (MTU) has donated over 43,000 to Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland (AADI) following a hugely successful charity event.

MTUs Staff Social Charity Committee ran a hugely successful event called MTU Oscars, which combined students and staff from all six campuses across Cork and Kerry for a night of glitz and glamour at the Rochestown Park Hotel in Cork on March 7.

A total of six short films were produced for the occasion, with staff stepping into acting roles for beloved titles such as Calendar Girls, Misery, The Snapper, Sister Act, Forrest Gump, and Father Ted.

MTU Oscars Charity Committee Chairperson, Ann OHalloran, said it was a privilege to be a part of the event.

We were blown away by the staff from every corner of MTU that got involved, with the support from local businesses and the well wishes received, the length and breadth of the country.

It gave staff a massive boost and created/cemented lifelong friendships. To do it for such a worthy charity was just the icing on the cake, she said.

Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland was selected through a university-wide vote and the funds raised will help AADI continue its vital work in training and placing assistance dogs with families of autistic children throughout Ireland.

David McCarthy, Head of Fundraising and Communications at AADI said:

On behalf of the families we support, thank you to everyone at MTU for making such a powerful and lasting impact, Mr McCarthy said.

MTU Staff Social Charity Committee thanked all the sponsors and local businesses who played a part in bringing the event to life.

To learn more or support Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland, please visit www.aadi.ie.
Micheal Kirby was a Ballinskelligs native who took up writing late in life and released several highly-regarded books before his death in 2005

Glor on Sceilg will be launched at Cahersiveen Lirbary on the evening of Thursday, May 8.

The work of a renowned Ballinskelligs writer is showcased in a new Irish language book Glor on Sceilg which will be launched at 6pm in Cahersiveen library on Thursday (May 8).

Michael Kirby, or Micheal Ua Ciarmhic, was a Ballinskelligs native who took up writing late in life and, despite only receiving a primary education, managed to release several highly regarded books in Irish and English before he died in 2005.

The book that will be launched locally on Thursday evening is a new collection comprising of prose and poetry selected from the Kerry writers eight original Irish language books published between 1984 and 2000, with two poems from the 2006 multi-authored collection Duanaire Mhaidci.

The book also features photographs of the author, who was a well-regarded artist, along with some of his paintings and a detailed map of Ballinskelligs by calligrapher Tim ONeill.

Glor on Sceilg is said to be an insiders account of a unique cultural region, the hilly coastal area that looks out onto Skellig Michael at the tip of the Iveragh Peninsula, which will inspire readers courtesy of the authors detailed knowledge of his physical surroundings and understanding of the relationship between humans and the natural world.

The book was published by Cork University Press on World Book Day (March 6). The archives of Michael Kirby, donated to UCC by his daughter Anne Kirby Coffey and son-in-law Patrick Coffey, were opened to the public for the first time when the book was released.

The Ballinskelligs writer, as Patrick Coffey recently wrote in Comhnasc, was born in Ballinskelligs in 1906 and was the youngest of seven children in his family. He later emigrated to America and found work on the railways in New Haven, Connecticut, where many of his siblings had also relocated.

He returned home in 1933 to care for his dying father, who passed away in October of that year. Though he had intended to return to the USA, he could not due to the outbreak of World War II.

Michael fell in love with a local woman, Peggy OSullivan, and married her in January of 1943. The couple had six children and Michael , who had an intimate knowledge of the Skellig Coast, worked as a fisherman.

After he retired he worked for the Board of Works, painting and maintaining the schools of the parish, until he suffered a heart attack in his mid-seventies and was advised that he should stop physical work.

He then took up oil painting, capturing scenery and flora from his area, and his reputation as an artist grew, with people visiting his home to buy paintings.

On trips to see his daughters Anne and Martina in Dublin, he made regular visits to the Conradh na Gaeilge Club on Harcourt Street. There he met writers and publishers who encouraged him to begin writing.

And so he did. Michael Kirby was 78-years-old when he launched his first book, Cliathan na Sceilge, at Listowel Writers Week in 1984 and went on to write much highly regarded material over the next 20 years.

Patrick Coffey said the upcoming launch of Glor on Sceilg is very important for the Uibh Rathach Gaeltacht, where there is a strong revival of people speaking Irish courtesy of the work of Victor Bayda, language planning officer for the area, and Seaghan O Suilleabhain, language planning officer for Cahersiveen.
There is widespread anger and frustration over ongoing roadworks in Fossa.

THE image above shows the distance  or lack of it  between two buses passing through roadworks at Fossa and it has caused quite a bit of consternation.

Many have taken to social media to comment on the picture which appears to highlight how tight the new road layout is.

While there has been a staunch defence from the local authority who argue that the more narrow road is in fact in line with regulation and will in fact help slow down traffic, the argument has been rejected by many  particularly those using commercial and agricultural vehicles and the photo has backed up their arguments.

It is an issue that has been raised for several weeks by local councillors who have said they are inundated with calls and messages about the Fossa Safety Improvement Project which has seen the road narrowed and footpaths widened to cater for the addition of cycle lanes.

In parts of the new section, the footpath on one side is in fact wider than the road surface.

Since the second kerb has gone in, professional drivers have complained that it is desperate tight. Agricultural drivers and bus drivers have expressed concerns but these concerns are falling on deaf ears, said Cllr Brendan Cronin.

He said Kerry County Council has repeatedly stated that the road is the correct width  six metres as per regulations from Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII).

Cllr Cronin said concerns were raised about Muckross Road previously  which is seven metres in width  and Fossa is narrower than that with each carriage way 3 metres in width or 9.9ft.

He said that agricultural machinery can be 10ft wide which highlights the issues at play.

You dont need to be a rocket scientist to see the issue, he remarked.

Cllr Cronin said, however, despite the concerns raised, the council is not listening when they should be given that changes could still be implemented if needed.

They are ignoring what we are saying and the concerns of drivers, he added. Cllr Cronin said the project is about safety and the pedestrian crossing at the school is vital but if there are issues they should be addressed.

Mayor Maura Healy Rae has also raised concerns over the works.

The issue is expected to flare up this morning (Wednesday) as Killarney councillors are attending the monthly Killarney Municipal District meeting.

Meanwhile, on Sunday, emergency services were called to Fossa after a pedestrian was knocked down crossing the N72 at Fossa shortly before 11pm.

A 33-year-old Ukrainian woman living locally was taken to UHK following injuries sustained in the impact which occurred close Fossa Cross near the Golden Nugget.

Gardai and emergency services attended the scene and the injured party was conveyed to Kerry University Hospital for treatment.
Emilie Hjorndal of Emilie's in Glenbeigh who's accomodation problems have put the future of her business in jeopardy.

A Kerry restaurant owner has said she fears for the future of her business as the current housing crisis has left her without a place to live.

Emilie Mjorndal from Sweden moved to Kerry over six years and runs the very popular bakery, cafe and restaurant Emilies in Glenbeigh village but has now found herself in a difficult situation as she cannot find a place to rent anywhere in her adopted home.
The roadshow travels around Ireland conversing with local communities on the importance of preserving Irish neutrality in the face of global instability and war.

The discussion is for people who are concerned about the rush to war and aims to stimulate discussion and encourage local groups to organise to protect Irish neutrality.

Legislation was brought to Cabinet in March that many feel is an attempt to erode the Triple Lock  a mechanism that regulates the deployment of Irish Defence Forces overseas.

The fear is that any changes to the Triple Lock may result in Irish troops being deployed on military style missions as opposed to peacekeeping.

Irish troops already participate in battlegroup training exercises, so it is highly likely that once the Triple Lock is gone, they will be deployed on battlegroup missions. This would fundamentally change the character of Irelands engagement with the world, said a spokesperson for The Neutrality Roadshow.

It further states that, because Irelands neutrality is not enshrined in the constitution, legislation such as the Triple Lock is essential to keep Ireland out of war, allowing the country to play an active role in building peace.

This people-led initiative confirmed it is not affiliated with any political party, and is being rolled out based on the goodwill of local communities who will host speakers from diverse backgrounds including anti-war campaigners, researchers and writers, legal scholars, poets and musicians, and more.

To date, The Neutrality Roadshow has confirmed events in Clare, Donegal, Leitrim, Sligo, with other locations to be announced in Cavan, Dublin, Derry, Down, Fermanagh, Galway, Kildare, Louth Wexford and more.
A local community in Co Leitrim has come together to provide funds to purchase a specialized quad bike to help a young boy diagnosed with a rare disorder fulfil his dream of farming.

Michael Barry (8) is the son of Cllr Brendan Barry and Nicola and a brother to Shauna.

The family live In Drumshanbo, Co Leitrim.

Michael was born with a very rare condition: Genetic deletion Contiguous XP21 deletion syndrome.

Follow Independent Leitrim on Facebook

The condition leads to the co-occurrence of several related genetic disorders, including Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), congenital adrenal hypoplasia (CAH), and glycerol kinase deficiency (GKD).

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a terminal muscle wasting condition which causes a progressive loss of muscle in every organ and part of the body and usually impacts boys.

Michael has never walked unaided and is a wheelchair user.

Despite his challenges, the young man has a love of farming and spending his days on the land and watching the cows.

However, the family farm is not accessible by car.

To combat this, a GoFundMe page has been launched to purchase an all terrain vehicle, such as a quad, with an enclosed cab.

The vehicle would allow Michael to roam to fields and yard safely. The vehicle will cost approximately between 15,000 and 20,000.

Michael Barry (8) is the son of Cllr Brendan Barry and Nicola and a brother to Shauna.

So far, almost 25,000 has been raised by the fundraiser.

The fund has been further bolstered as a local family donated money towards helping Michael in memory of their son and brother Ronan Moran, who was friends with Michael.

Last year, 2,000 was raised for Michael in conjunction with Allen Gaels GAA who were raising funds for local groups and people with the inaugural Shroomsday event.

The Barry family are incredibly grateful for the support and donations they have received from the local community.

The GoFundMe page explains, Michael is a typical boy when it comes to wanting to be out and about and on the farm.

It is not possible to get a car around our farm. In the vehicle, he would have his own seat and be strapped in while being protected from the elements.

With 2,000 being donated to Michael from the Shroomsday event, Allen Gaels have again offered to donate funds from a 25 card drive to Michael.

We plan to spend this on the purchase of an all terrain vehicle like a quad with enclosed cab which would be much safer and drier for Michael to be able to go farming and see the cows.

Michael was born with a very rare condition: Genetic deletion Contiguous XP21 deletion syndrome.

It will cost approximately between 15,000 and 20,000.

We are setting up this go fund me if others would like to help with this purchase or other things to help Michael enjoy life to his full potential, reads the fundraiser.

To donate to the fundraiser, visit the GoFundMe page here.
The conference took place at the Castletroy Park Hotel

A deaf mum-of-three spoke of the challenges deaf and hard-of-hearing parents face at a national conference held at the University of Limerick.

Held this Tuesday, the Supporting Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Disabled Parents Conference brought together representatives from Disabled Persons Organisations, HSE, Tusla, disability service providers, parenting support providers, and Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and disabled parents, along with academics from across the country.

One of the most powerful moments came from Elaine Grehan of the Irish Deaf Society, a deaf mother-of-three hearing children.

Ms Grehan spoke about the challenges deaf and hard-of-hearing parents face, particularly in overcoming the attitudes that cast doubt on their capabilities.

Disability advocate and author Ann Marie Flanagan drew on her own experience as a disabled parent and discussed the lack of dedicated support  for example, adapted baby equipment  and the ingenuity required of disabled parents who often must be the architects of their own solutions.

Julie Helen, a disabled mother and vocal advocate, urged for human rights-focused support, respect, understanding, improved communication, and trust-building.

The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth was represented by Joanne McGarry, who affirmed the Departments commitment to building inclusive parenting supports. Were working to develop initiatives that cater to all parents, including those who are deaf, hard-of-hearing, or disabled, she said.

Conference organisers Professor Donal Fortune and Dr Elaine Rogers described the event as a beginning, saying they were delighted with the support for this event and eager to see momentum continue.

We look forward to the development of peer and professional support networks for Deaf, hard of hearing and disabled parents in Ireland, they said.
Mick Wallace branded a complete hypocrite as he joins Clare Daly on guided tour of Iranian military museum

The former MEPs were shown missiles, drones and fighter jets by a general in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard during a visit to Tehran

Mick Wallace and Clare Daly Iran visit

Padraig Byrne Wexford People Wed 7 May 2025 at 16:10

Former MEP Mick Wallace has once again blasted the European Parliament while accepting an award at the Sobh Media Festival in Tehran, Iran.
China launches fourth-generation self-developed quantum control system

10:47, May 07, 2025 By Du Qiongfang ( Global Times

A visitor takes photos of an Origin Wukong superconducting quantum computer model at the 2024 World Manufacturing Convention in Hefei, East China's Anhui Province on September 20, 2024. (Photo/Xinhua)

Hefei-based Origin Quantum Computing Technology Co, the developer of Origin Wukong quantum computer, on Tuesday, launched China's fourth-generation self-developed quantum control system supporting over 500 qubits - Origin Tianji 4.0, a major milestone for China's quantum tech ambitions.

This launch represents a key step toward scalable, industrialized production of hundred-qubit quantum computer for China's quantum computing industry, enabled by replicable and iterative engineering capabilities, the Global Times learned from Origin Quantum on Tuesday.

The quantum control system functions as the "neural center" of a quantum computer, managing the generation, acquisition and control of precise signals for quantum chips. Origin Tianji 4.0 is a major upgrade from the version 3.0 which was used in China's third-generation superconducting quantum computer Origin Wukong. The new version features significant advances in scalability, integration, stability and automation, according to China News Service.

The team has enhanced efficient control and precise readout of quantum chips through fully self-developed hardware and software architectures, significantly accelerating the development and delivery of quantum computers, said Kong Weicheng, deputy director of the Anhui Quantum Computing Engineering Research Center, who led the research team of Origin Tianji 4.0.

The integration of Origin Tianji 4.0 with the company's four self-developed core software systems significantly improves the efficiency and accuracy of superconducting quantum chip adjusting and testing. Tasks that once relied on the expertise of PhD-level specialists have now been streamlined into standardized workflows that can be executed by regular engineers.

The launch of Origin Tianji 4.0 signifies that China's quantum computing industry now possesses replicable and iterative engineering production capabilities, laying the foundation for the mass production of hundred-qubit quantum computers, Guo Guoping, director of the Anhui Quantum Computing Engineering Research Center and chief scientist at Origin Quantum, told the Global Times on Tuesday.

Since its launch, China's third-generation self-developed superconducting quantum computer Origin Wukong, powered by Origin Tianji 3.0, has completed over 380,000 quantum computing tasks for more than 26 million users from 139 countries and regions worldwide since it became operational on January 6 last year, providing strong support in fields such as finance, biomedicine, and fluid dynamics, according to Guo.

Global visits to Origin Wukong have surpassed 20 million, with users from the US, Russia, Japan and Canada being the most active ones, the Global Times learned from the company in March this year.

Currently, Origin Tianji 4.0 is supporting the development of China's next-generation quantum computer, contributing to a fully self-controlled "China solution" in the global race for quantum technology leadership, Guo said.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
Irelands largest wool shop closes down  I cannot get over how much the shop meant to people

Eoin Mac Raghnaill meets the canny entrepreneur behind Irelands largest wool shop and Arklows biggest school uniform shop, as both Main Street stores close down

Owner of the now closed Plain & Pearl wool shop in Arklow, Julie New, with her husband Denis. Photo: Michael Kelly

Eoin Mac Raghnaill Wicklow People Wed 7 May 2025 at 08:00

An Eden for knitters and crocheters filled with every shade of wool imaginable, Plain & Pearl, Arklows famous wool shop, is sadly no more. Leaving behind cherished memories of wonderful window displays and yarns shared with close-knit friends, the beloved local institution is forever interwoven into the fabric of the community and its proud history of craft.
Parish of Powerscourt with Kilbride

Services of Worship in St. Patricks Church, for this SundayThe Fourth Sunday of Easter: 11.30am Holy Communion 1.

Service of Worship in St. Brigids Church, Kilbride, for this Sunday The Fourth Sunday of Easter: 9.45am Morning Prayer 2.

All Services of Worship are available on the Parish YouTube Channel.

Rathmichael May Fair: Takes place this Saturday in Rathmichael Church, Ferndale Road, Shankill, from 11am to 2pm featuring Childrens Games and Fun Activities, Childrens Art Competition, Flower Arranging Competition, Bake Sale, Fresh Farm Eggs, and Refreshments throughout the day.

Flower Arranging Competition: This event for Novice Florists for Beginners and Improvers takes place this Saturday as part of the Rathmichael May Fair in Rathmichael Church, Ferndale Road, Shankill, from 11am to 2pm. The entry fee is 10 per entry. Please email rathmichaelflowers@gmail.com for an Application Form and Rules of Entry. Flower Arrangements are to be left at Rathmichael Church for judging tomorrow (Thursday).

Irish Trefoil GuildGuiding for Life: Calling all former leaders of the Irish Girl Guides in Bray and the surrounding area. There is now a Trefoil Guild in Bray. Contact Anne at: braytrefoilguild@gmail.com.

St Marys Church

Parish Website: www.enniskerryparish.ie is the Parish website of the Immaculate Heart of Marycheck it out for the latest information about our parish.

Facebook Page: There is a facebook page for the parish of Enniskerry, incorporating all four churches which facebook users will find under Enniskerry parish with a cover photo of trees and profile picture of a quote from Pope Francis. Please give it a like and feel free to post news from your community.

Enniskerry (also Curtlestown & Glencree) Parish Office opening times: Monday to Friday: 10am to 1pm; email: stmarys@enniskerryparish.ie; or call 01-2760030.

St Mochonogs Parish Office opening times: Monday: 9am to 2pm, Tuesday: (by phone) 10am to 1pm, Wednesday: 10am to 2pm, Thursday (by phone) 10am to 1pm. Closed Friday.

Parish Churches Schedule of Masses: Enniskerry St. Marys: Saturday evening 6pm and also via parish webcam; Sunday 11am and also via parish webcam. Weekday Mass at Enniskerry is at 10.15am on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and also via parish webcam lay-led prayer service on Wednesday; and Saturday at 10.15am, and also available via the parish webcam. Masses in Curtlestown and Kilmacanogue are on Sunday at 10am. Mass in Glencree is at 9am on the first Sunday each month.

New Music Ministry: Please join us if you would like the opportunity to sing and fill in from time to time when our regular musicians are not available. We currently meet on Tuesday evenings at 7.15pm in St. Marys Church. See you there.

Baptism Requests: Requests for Baptism now take place online at www.enniskerryparish.ie.

Downtime Thursday/Adoration: Downtime Thursday takes place on the last Thursday of the Month. The next Downtime Thursday will take place on Thursday May 29th from 7pm to 8pm in St. Marys Church, so why not pop into the church for some quiet time. You can sit in silence with candlelight and gentle music. Take a few minutes for yourself and just be. Light a candle, say a prayer. Just sit if thats what you need. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament will take place.

New Here?: You are very welcome. You can keep up to date with us through the parish webpage at www.enniskerryparish.ie.

Broadcast List: A broadcast list for the parish is now up and running. This is to keep everyone up to date with what is happening in the parish and for easy communication in relation to building our communities. If you would like to have your name added to the list please contact Aideen at 086 8182 241.

History Society

Members and supporters of the Enniskerry History Society are asked to note that the following events will take place in the coming week today (Wednesday) Dr. Jason McElligott will present Rialto Buildings the place and the people in 1929 at 3pm in the Edward Worth Library, Dr. Steevens Hospital, Dublin 8. Admission is free but booking is essential email: info@edwardworthlibrary.ie; Cora McDonagh will present Castle, Churches and Cobblestones the built heritage of Balbriggan at 8pm to the Balbriggan and District Historical Society in the Bracken Court Hotel, 3A Bridge Street, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin. All are welcome admission is free for members and 5 for non-members. Next Monday Julie Brooks and Elizabeth Mullins, UCD Archives Department, will present The Vernon Collection of Papers at 7.30pm to the Clontarf Historical Society in St. Johns Pastoral Centre, Clontarf Road, Clontarf, Dublin 3. All are welcomeadmission is 5; Bayveen OConnell will present A Lusitania Legacy Its far reaching consequences at 8pm in the National Maritime Museum of Ireland, Haigh Terrace, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin. Admission is 10 book online at: www.mariner.ie/a-lusitania-legacy. Next Tuesday Brian Dooley will present A selection of images from the Societys Photo Archive at 8pm to the Malahide Historical Society in St. Sylvesters Church Parish Centre, Malahide, Co. Dublin. All are welcome admission is 5. Next Thursday (May 15th) Brian White will present On the Buses at 8 p.m. to the Bray Cualann Historical Society in the Royal Hotel, Main Street, Bray, Co. Wicklow. All are welcome admission is 8 for non-members.

Enniskerry Library

Opening hours are Tuesday 10.30am to 12.30pm & 1.30pm to 4.30pm; Wednesday: 2pm to 4.30pm & 6pm to 8pm; Friday: 10.30am to 12.30pm & 1.30pm to 4.30pm; Saturday: 10am to 2.30pm.The library can be contacted at 01-2864339 or email: enniskerrylib@wicklowcoco.ie. On-line services including e-books, audio-books, digital magazines and newspapers and e-learning are available from the library website.

Enniskerry Bridge Club

Enniskerry Bridge Club meets every Tuesday night in the Powerscourt Parochial Hall (beside Poppies) at 7.30pm. New members are always very welcome. For more information please contact the Secretary at 085-7112179.

Charabanc

The next event is on this FridayTime to be confirmed assemble in St. Patricks Church Car Park- Guided Tour of Glasnevin Cemetery.

Car Show

The Veteran, Vintage and Classic Car Show takes place in the grounds of St. Patricks Church on Sunday May 25th from 11am to 5pm.
Claire Brennan and Pauline Duffy, who were presented with flowers to mark their outstanding efforts in getting Bray Comhaltas going again after the Covid pandemic.

The 2025 Wicklow Fleadh was officially launched in Colaiste Raithin, Bray, where guests were entertained with a selection of tunes, Irish dancing, ceili dancing and singing as a warm-up to the big occasion.

Comhaltas Bhre will host the annual event on Saturday, May 24, also in Colaiste Raithin and will welcome family and friends from Comhaltas branches from across Wicklow and from around the country

Hot House Flowers vocalist and musician Fiachna O Braonain was the special guest of honour at the Bray launch, with a selection of whistle tunes and a collection of some memorable stories about his own musical journey through traditional music.

Speaking about the 2025 Wicklow Fleadh, Comhaltas Bhre Chairperson Gabe Moynagh said: Hosting the Fleadh in Bray this year is a great honour for our branch and a chance to celebrate not just the music we love, but the people and places that keep it alive in our community.

In preparation for the Fleadh, libraries around Wicklow will host the Road to The Fleadh Music Series, which are all free to the public. Comhaltas Bhre musicians of all ages will showcase their talents and entertain the community with a series of performances.

In a further initiative aimed to make music accessible to all members of the Wicklow community, libraries are also offering affordable rental of musical instruments. Thanks to a collaboration with Music Generation Wicklow, library users can explore their musical talents with ease and affordability.

The Road to The Fleadh Music Series takes place in the following venues:

Ballywaltrim Library, Saturday, May 10 May at 4pm (Bray CCE).

Arklow Library, Saturday, May 10 May at 11am (Wicklow Miners CCE). After the performance, there will be an opportunity for audience members to try out an instrument.

Donard Mobile Library Stop, Wednesday, May 14 May at 3pm (Donard CCE).

Bray Library, Saturday May 17 at 10.15am (Bray CCE).

Wicklow Library Exhibition Floor, Saturday, May 17 May at 12.30pm (Boathouse CCE).

Rathdrum Library, Saturday, May 17 at 11.30am (Anne Devlin CCE).

The Fleadh in Bray marks a significant milestone in the Comhaltas Bhre branch history.

Bray CCE was founded in 2007 by Gerry and Annie ODonnell, with the support of Gearoid O Ciarain, then principal of Colaiste Raithin. Their vision and dedication laid the foundations for what would grow into a vibrant branch, where hundreds of young musicians first found their love of Irish traditional music.

In the years that followed, Comhaltas Bhre played a central role in bringing music into homes, schools, and communities across the town. Like many other branches, COVID-19 caused major disruption. With no venue in Bray able to accommodate in-person classes at the time, the branch were incredibly fortunate to be welcomed by Rita Ni Thuathail and the Board of Gaelscoil na gCloch Liath in Greystones.

In 2021, thanks to the determination of a dedicated committee  including Claire Brennan, Majella Ni Bhuachalla, Pauline Duffy, and Eileen O Ceidigh  Bray Comhaltas found its footing again. In 2024, the branch were able to return to Bray with the support of Deaglan O Laoire, principal of Colaiste Raithin. Today, the brach are proud to run classes in two locations  Bray on Wednesdays and Greystones on Thursdays.
Wicklow County Council has purchased 21 acres of land at Magheramore, Co Wicklow, after the successful bidder at a recent auction for the site pulled out of the deal.

A BidX1 auction for the beachside parcel of land, which offers stunning panoramic views of the beach and Irish sea, took place on Thursday, March 27, and saw three bidders, including Wicklow County Council, battle it out, before it was sold to an unnamed bidder from China for 613,000, which was in excess of the 550,000 asking price.

However, after the successful bidder decided not to proceed with the sale, the council was given the opportunity to complete the purchase of the important coastal amenity.

Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council Emer OGorman said: We are delighted to confirm the signing of the agreement for the purchase of the lands at Magheramore. From the beginning, our aim has been to protect access to this beach and uphold the objectives of the County Development Plan.

The site had previously belonged to Paddy McKillen Jr, who purchased it in 2021, buying it for 700,000 at another online auction, which was well beyond the then asking price of 210,000. Wicklow County Council were also involved in the bidding on that auction, but were outbid.

Soon after the purchase of the lands in 2021, McKillen's company Creatively Pacific Limited outlined plans for a boutique holiday resort, with the development to consist of an integrated tourism leisure recreational complex.

The primary building would include a gym, sauna, cinema and outdoor pool at lower ground level, a reception bar and restaurant washrooms and outdoor terrace on the ground floor and an event room on the first floor. The proposal also included installation of 48 accommodation pods along the east of the site.

Magheramore Beach.

Locals raised concerns over whether access to Magheramore Beach would be maintained if planning was granted for the development, and Wicklow County Council refused permission, which prompted an appeal to An Bord Pleanala, who in January refused the application due to insufficient information about the extent of tree removal and the ecological impact assessment, and concerns around effects on the Magherabeg Dunes Special Area of Conservation.

Read more Intentions for auctioned Magheramore Beach site questioned as Wicklow County Council outbid

Wicklow County Councils acquisition of the land at Magheramore will guarantee continued access to the beach. Furthermore, it is a step towards the County Development Plan objectives to protect the Special Area of Conservation and the National Heritage Area.

Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Cllr Paul OBrien said: On behalf of the elected members of Wicklow County Council and particularly the six members of Wicklow Municipal District, we are delighted to welcome the purchase of the 21 acres of land at Magheramore by Wicklow County Council.

The McKillen development was planned for a cliff top overlooking Magheramore beach.

This beach has long been associated with surfing and filming, serving as the backdrop for numerous TV productions including historical dramas such as Vikings and Camelot, the EastEnders spin-off series Redwater, and Amy Hubermans Finding Joy. In recent years the beach has also hosted the annual strip and dip, where brave swimmers venture into the waves to raise funds for cancer research.

Cathaoirleach of Wicklow Municipal District Cllr Gail Dunne said: This is fantastic news. The council has secured continued access to an amenity that will be enjoyed by young people and families for generations to come. I want to take this opportunity to thank the officials for their efforts in securing the purchase of the land. Magheramore is such a unique and beautiful place. Council ownership of the site is something most of the local community was calling for.

Director of finance for Wicklow County Council and Wicklow District Manager Brian Gleeson said: Following a long and repeated bidding process, the council was afforded the opportunity to purchase the land and we immediately acted on this to ensure a swift and efficient transfer of ownership. I also wish to acknowledge the strong community support that helped highlight the importance of preserving Magheramore Beach for public use
A Wicklow couple involved in a legal dispute over two donkeys they are carers for are now in danger of having a third donkey taken away from them.

Gerry and Sandra Kinsella became the guardians of Wags and Trey 13 years ago, having fostered them from Donkey Sanctuary Ireland.

Gerry and Sandra say that hey included Wags and Trey, as they were legally obligated to do so, in Irelands first National Equine Census in 2021.

They said that the Department of Agriculture requested an update on their passports nine months later as both Wags and Trey were both originally from the UK.

Gerry and Sandra became Wags and Treys official keeper carers after legally removing the two donkeys from the UK database and changing their passports to Irish passports in order to complete the census.

The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland stated that all our guardians must commit to following strict guidelines on matters such as passports routine healthcare and regular meetings with our welfare advisors and issued legal proceedings in the hope of settling on a resolution that is in the best interests of the donkeys involved.

Now a third donkey, Stan, who was adopted from a different charity, is also at risk of being removed from Brickfield Sidings Farm beside Burkes Hardware in Rathnew, which he shares with Wags and Trey.

Sandra said: We were served with court papers on Thursday and Donkey Sanctuary Ireland have formally invited us to mediation with an independent mediator to separate Wags and Trey from our other rescue Stan, a rescue we got from a different organisation who we have had for almost three years, as they are concerned about the integration and amalgamation of our donkeys.

Apparently, under our fostering agreement regarding Wags and Trey, if we amalgamate another donkey outside of Wags and Trey, then Donkey Sanctuary Ireland has the right to take all three donkeys.

We werent aware of this aspect of the agreement didnt have a copy of the agreement so we had to get our solicitor on the case.

If we do not respond within seven days of the papers being served, and in the event that we do not agree to the proposed terms regarding mediation, the Donkey Sanctuary Ireland reserves its right to amend proceedings, if necessary, to include a claim against our other rescue and to fix us with the costs of such proceedings.

She added: Its a very worrying and stressful time for both myself and Gerry. Wags, Trey and Stan are all part of the family and it would be heartbreaking to have to separate them.

Stan is so well settled in now and has been living with Wags and Trey for close to three years now. It would be incredibly unfair to separate them.

In a bid to stop this happening, Gerry and Sandra have started a change.org petition titled Save the donkeys from being taken from their home, which has already amassed over 1,736 signatures.
Pope Leo plays tennis and supports AS Roma, says senior priest





Pope Leo XIV, the first US leader of the global Catholic Church, is a keen tennis player and a fan of AS Roma soccer club, according to a senior member of his religious order who has known him for four decades.





The new pope, 69, is known as a supporter of the White Sox baseball team from his hometown of Chicago, and the Vatican's news outlet has a published a picture of him riding a horse in Peru, where he spent many years as a missionary.





"He's a regular tennis player. He would come up and play on our grounds once a week at least," Father Joseph Farrell, Vicar General of the Augustinians, told Reuters on Friday, speaking from the headquarters of the religious order just off St Peter's Square.





He confirmed that Leo was a fan of the Eternal City's biggest soccer club.





"He's (AS) Roma all the way," Farrell said.





The club did not directly confirm it, but welcomed the new pontiff after his election on Thursday.





"AS Roma joins in rejoicing with Rome and the world following the election of Pope Leo XIV, and wishes him all the very best for his papacy," it wrote on X.



Reuters




Russia and Ukraine yesterday swapped 205 prisoners of war each, the Russian defence ministry said in a statement.

Earlier, all four international airports around Moscow temporarily suspended flights as Russian forces intercepted more than 100 Ukrainian drones fired at almost a dozen Russian regions, the defence ministry in Moscow said.
Indian strikes hit 'terrorist camps' in Pakistan used as launchpads, recruitment hubs, India saysAct of war  Pakistan PM Shehbaz SharifDFA advises Irish citizens to avoid travelling to border areas of India and Pakistan

Pakistan shot down 12 drones from India that violated its airspace, the military said on Thursday, a day after Indian strikes on multiple targets in the country fanned fears of a larger military conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

India sent Israeli Harop drones to multiple locations, including the two largest cities of Karachi and Lahore, and their debris is being collected, Pakistan military spokesperson Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said.

"Indian drones continue to be sent into Pakistan airspace...(India) will continue to pay dearly for this naked aggression," he said.

India's defence ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

India hit "terrorist infrastructure" in Pakistan in the early hours of Wednesday, two weeks after it accused the Islamic nation of involvement in an attack in Indian Kashmir in which 26 people - mostly Hindu tourists - were killed.

Islamabad had denied the accusation and vowed to retaliate to the missile strikes, also saying it shot down five Indian aircraft. The Indian embassy in Beijing termed reports of fighter jets being shot down as "misinformation".
I was a hostage of the Iranian regime: The Tipperary native on being held in dire conditions and the war with Israel
Former U.S. President Joe Biden said his successor Donald Trump's pressure on Ukraine to give up territory to Russia is a form of "modern-day appeasement" that will never satisfy Moscow.

In an interview with the BBC broadcast on Wednesday, Biden said Russian President Vladimir Putin believes Ukraine is part of "mother Russia" and "anybody who thinks he's going to stop is just foolish".
A US delegation is to hold top level talks with China this weekend which could be the first step in ending the tariff trade war creating turmoil in the global economy. American Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and chief trade negotiator Jamieson Greer, will meet Chinas economic tsar He Lifeng in Switzerland.
US may soon deport migrants to Libya on military flights, sources tell Reuters

US may deport migrants to Libya despite past rights criticism, sources tell ReutersFirst deportation flights may leave this weekUS seeks more deportation destinationsWhen asked, Trump says he does not know

Venezuelan migrants arrive after being deported from the United States, at Simon Bolivar International Airport, in Maiquetia, Venezuela April 23, 2025. REUTERS/Leonardo Fernandez Viloria

Phil Stewart, Idrees Ali and Humeyra Pamuk Reuters Wed 7 May 2025 at 21:42







US President Donald Trump's administration may deport migrants to Libya for the first time this week, three US officials said on Tuesday, as part of his immigration crackdown and despite Washington's past condemnation of Libya's harsh treatment of detainees.
I'm Still Here OTT Release Date: After making history at the 2025 Oscars as Brazils first-ever winner of the Best International Feature Film, I'm Still Here is finally making its grand digital debut. The streaming giant Netflix has confirmed that the Walter Salles-directed masterpiece will be available to stream from May 17, 2025. The film is, however, already available to rent on Prime Video.

This is the arrival of a cinematic storm that shook up the international film scene and outshone strong contenders like Emilia Perez and The Girl with the Needle.

What is I'm Still Here all about?

Based on Marcelo Rubens Paivas acclaimed biographical book, I'm Still Here tells the true story of a woman named Eunice Paiva, whose husband Rubens, a former politician in Brazil, was taken by the military during a time when the country was under a dictatorship in the 1970s. After Rubens disappears, the government claims he ran away, but Eunice doesn't believe it.

She risks her life trying to find out what really happened to him. Over the years, Eunice becomes a strong human rights activist, fighting for truth and justice, not just for her husband, but for others who also suffered under the dictatorship. The story shows her strength, pain, and determination as she continues her fight into old age, even when her memory begins to fade.

Directed by Walter Salles from a screenplay by Murilo Hauser and Heitor Lorega, this political biographical drama faced unsuccessful boycott calls by the Brazilian far-right, who denied that the military regime was a dictatorship. Im Still Here eventually emerged as the highest-grossing Brazilian film since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The film had its world premiere at the 81st Venice International Film Festival, where it won the Best Screenplay award. It was named one of the Top 5 International Films of 2024 by the National Board of Review. At the 97th Academy Awards, Im Still Here, other than the big win, was also nominated under Best Actress (Torres) and Best Picture.

For more news and updates from the world of OTT and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.
Sarah Silverman: PostMortem OTT Release Date - The queen of dark comedy is all set to drop her brand-new comedy special Postmortem, and trust us, this ones not your regular laugh-a-minute set. Its personal, its raw, and yes, its still hilarious in a very only Sarah can pull this off kind of way.

When is it coming out?

Sarah Silverman: Postmortem will start streaming on May 20, 2025, exclusively on Netflix. This comedy special is a deep dive into love, loss, and how to cope when the people you love most are suddenly gone. In 2023, Sarah Silverman tragically lost both her father and her stepmother within just days of each other. And instead of running away from that pain, she decided to take it to the stage.

Silverman unpacks what its like to mourn people you love and still manage to laugh about the absurdity of it all. From awkward funeral moments to dealing with family drama to the guilt and grace that grief brings, shes baring her soul. And shes making us laugh while doing it.

Who is Sarah Silverman?

Sarah Silverman is one of the most fearless and sharp-witted comedians in America. She was born on December 1, 1970, in Bedford, New Hampshire. She grew up in a Jewish family and started performing stand-up comedy when she was just 17. After a brief and not-so-great stint as a writer and performer on Saturday Night Live in the early 90s (she was let go after one season), Sarah began carving her own path, one stand-up gig at a time.

Her big break came in 2005 with the release of her first stand-up film, Jesus Is Magic. Sarah, then, went on to create and star in The Sarah Silverman Program (20072010) on Comedy Central, where she played a fictional version of herself. The show was a hit with fans of edgy, alternative comedy. Shes also done several stand-up specials that earned her critical acclaim:

We Are Miracles (HBO, 2013)  Won an Emmy for Outstanding Writing

 Won an Emmy for Outstanding Writing A Speck of Dust (Netflix, 2017)  Nominated for Grammy and Emmy Awards

 Nominated for Grammy and Emmy Awards Postmortem (2024)  Her latest and most personal special, dealing with the recent loss of her parents

Aside from stand-up, Sarahs been in films (Wreck-It Ralph, School of Rock, I Smile Back), written a memoir (The Bedwetter), hosted her own Hulu series (I Love You, America), and even done political activism.

For more news and updates from the world of OTT and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.
Soon after India conducted strikes on terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as a response to the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan's Information Minister Ataullah Tarar appeared on Sky News. He claimed India had targeted civilians and repeated Pakistans usual stance: There are no terrorist camps in Pakistan. Tarar added, Pakistan is a victim of terrorism. We've laid down 90,000 lives in this war.

Anchor Yalda Hakim, however, confronted him with recent and historic admissions by Pakistani leaders about the countrys use of terror groups. Your defence minister admitted Pakistan has for decades had a policy of backing terrorist groups, she said. She also cited the 2018 US military aid cut and past remarks by Pervez Musharraf and Benazir Bhutto.

Padma Shri for Yalda Hakim! pic.twitter.com/SeornUfVCL  Gabbar (@GabbbarSingh) May 7, 2025





Yalda Hakim highlights Osama Bin Laden

As Tarar insisted that Pakistan has only been a frontline state in fighting terror, Hakim reminded viewers that Osama bin Laden was found in Abbottabad, Pakistan. These accusations on Pakistan your defence minister made the admission, she said. When Tarar blamed the Soviet war for past affiliations, the anchor quickly shifted focus: Pakistan was on a grey list of state sponsors of terrorism just a few years ago.

Jhootha Makkar Ataullah Tarar. Jhooth Bolte waqt isko yaad nahi aaya ki Kayamat ke Din Khuda ko Jawaab kya DeGa. Jahannaum ki AAG me Jalega...! https://t.co/rnuokCScwI      Yagdutta Rajeev (@RajeevS99683293) May 7, 2025





Even as Tarar tried to redirect the conversation by referencing the capture of terrorists and US praise under Trump, the anchor kept pressing: That contradicts Western intelligence... the State Department. Her pointed replies made it difficult for the minister to defend his claims.

Netizens react: what an utter humiliation!

The interview clip quickly spread on social media. Viewers criticised Ataullah Tarars statements and praised Yalda Hakims firm questioning. One user wrote, Ataullah Tarar is a big shaitan liar never believe him. Another said, What an utter humiliation for Pakistan!!!

What an utter Humiliation for Pakistan!!!



Australia-based journalist Yalda Hakim exposes Pakistan's  Information Minister Ataullah Tarar on Live TV 



A Must Watch Video  pic.twitter.com/wF86m0WQ7y  Ajay Kashyap (@EverythingAjay) May 7, 2025





A third called him a Jhootha Makkar, warning of divine consequences for lying.

This latest exchange has added pressure on Pakistans credibility in the global narrative around terrorism. With Indias strikes following the Pahalgam attack and growing international scrutiny, Pakistans denials continue to face tough resistance both from journalists and the public.
TN +2 Result 2025: The Tamil Nadu Directorate of Government Examinations (DGE) will announce the TN +2 Result 2025 on May 8 at 9:00 AM. Over 8 lakh students appeared for the exam, which was held from March 3 to March 25, 2025. The Tamil Nadu 10th Result 2025 is also expected soon. It will likely be declared after May 13, 2025.

Students can check and download their +2 and 10th results from dge.tn.gov.in and tnresults.nic.in. Results will also be available on DigiLocker and through SMS. Here are direct links and step-by-step guide to access the results easily.

How to check TN +2 Result 2025 online?

Below are the required steps to check TN +2 Result 2025 online:

Visit the official website: tnresults.nic.in or dge.tn.gov.in.

or Click on the link titled TN HSE +2 Result 2025.

Enter your registration number and date of birth.

and Submit the details to view your provisional marksheet.

Download and print the marksheet for future reference.

Students can also access their results via the DigiLocker app.

Tamil Nadu 10th Result 2025: When and where to check

The TN HSC (+2) results are scheduled for May 8, 2025, at 9:00 AM. And, the Tamil Nadu SSLC (10th) Result 2025 is expected after May 13, 2025. Students can check their results on tnresults.nic.in. They can also download digital marksheets from DigiLocker. To pass, students must score at least 35 marks out of 100 in each subject. There are also specific minimum marks required in theory and practical exams.

What details are included in the TN +2 Result 2025?

The TN +2 Result 2025 will include several key details. These are:

Students name and roll number

Registration number

Subject-wise marks (theory and practical)

Total marks obtained

Overall pass/fail status

Stream (Science, Commerce, or Arts)

Minimum passing marks (35% per subject and overall)

A provisional marksheet will be available right after the result is declared. The original mark sheets will be distributed by schools at a later date.

FAQs

Q: When will the TN +2 Result 2025 be declared?

Answer: The TN +2 Result 2025 will be announced on May 8, 2025, at 9:00 AM.

Q2: How can I check my Tamil Nadu 10th Result 2025?

Answer: Visit tnresults.nic.in after May 13, 2025, enter your roll number and date of birth, and download your TN +2 marksheet 2025.

Q3: What is the minimum passing mark for TN Board exams?

Answer: Students must score at least 35% in each subject and overall to pass the exams.

Q: Can I download my marksheet digitally?

Answer: Yes, students can download their digital marksheets via DigiLocker using their roll number and year of passing.

Q: What if I fail in one or more subjects?

Answer: Students can appear for supplementary exams (compartment exams) scheduled in June 2025, with results expected in July.

Q: Will the TN +2 Result 2025 be available via SMS?

Answer: Yes, TN +2 Result 2025 will also be sent to students' registered mobile numbers via SMS.

For more news and updates from the world of Education, keep reading at Indiatimes.
Cardinals from around the world are now gathered at the Vatican to elect the next leader of the Catholic Church after the death of Pope Francis on April 21. With 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, the selection of a new pope carries spiritual, political, and global weight. The papal conclave, a centuries-old and highly secretive process, is set to begin inside the Sistine Chapel under Michelangelos famous frescoes.

What is a Papal Conclave?

The term conclave comes from the Latin con clavis, meaning with a key, referring to the tradition of locking cardinals in until a new pope is chosen. The process is governed by a set of rules formalised in 1996 and amended by Pope Benedict XVI. It involves cardinals under the age of 80 who are eligible to vote135 in this conclave, though 133 are confirmed participants. The cardinals are sequestered in the Sistine Chapel, without access to communication devices. Airwaves are jammed, and cellphones surrendered to ensure confidentiality.

The conclave begins with a special Mass at St. Peters Basilica, called Pro Eligendo Pontifice (For the Election of the Roman Pontiff), led by the dean of the College of Cardinals. This is followed by the chant of the Litany of the Saints and the singing of Veni, Creator Spiritus, a 1,000-year-old hymn asking for the Holy Spirits guidance.

How the voting takes place

The election process includes a maximum of four rounds of voting per daytwice in the morning and twice in the afternoon. Each cardinal writes their choice on a ballot that says Eligo in Summum Pontificem (I elect as Supreme Pontiff). Individually, they walk to the altar, swear an oathI call as my witness, Christ the Lord who will be my judgeand place their folded ballot into a silver and gold urn. A two-thirds majority is required to elect a pope.

Cardinals from 70 countries are gathering behind closed doors in the Sistine Chapel to elect the next Pope | Credit: AP

If no pope is elected after four days, voting pauses on the fifth day for prayer and informal discussion. Ballots are burned after each round. Black smoke from the chapel chimney signals no decision; white smoke means a new pope has been chosen. The smoke is produced using specific chemical mixtures.

Who are the leading contenders?

Among the names being discussed are Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Hungarian Cardinal Peter Erdo, and Ghanaian Cardinal Peter Turkson.

Cardinal Parolin, who is currently the Vaticans secretary of state and has played a key role in Pope Francis diplomatic efforts, is also presiding over the conclave. His experience with church governance and foreign affairs makes him a prominent candidate.

Cardinal Turkson would be the first Black pope in centuries if elected. He is known for his views on poverty, climate change, and economic justice, though he maintains traditional stances on other issues. His approach to topics like homosexuality has shown some openness, particularly in African contexts.

A global moment for the Catholic church

The conclave takes place as large crowds gather in St. Peters Square, with pilgrims from around the world waving flags and sharing stories of their journey to Vatican City. This conclave is seen as one of the most open in recent history, with no clear favourite emerging. As cardinals cast their secret ballots under Michelangelos The Last Judgment, Catholics across the globe await the emergence of white smokesignalling the name of the 267th pope.

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.
Operation Sindoor: In a powerful and strategic move, the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor during the early hours of Wednesday. This carefully planned mission was aimed at striking terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation was Indias direct response to the brutal Pahalgam terrorist attack, which took the lives of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepalese citizen on April 22. Indian armed forces target the terrorist sites under 'Operation Sindoor', the Defence Ministry said in a statement released at 1.44 am, reported in HT. It said the actions by the Indian armed forces have been "focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature".

Why Operation Sindoor Was Launched

According to an official statement from the central government, Operation Sindoor was carried out to target terrorist infrastructure across the border that had been used to plan and execute attacks against India. The government confirmed that nine locations in Pakistan and PoK were specifically chosen for this mission.

The statement added, The actions were focused, measured and non-escalatory. No Pakistani military facilities were harmed. This clearly showed that India had no interest in escalating tensions but was determined to bring those behind the Pahalgam terror attack to justice.

Indias Clear Message: Terrorists Will Pay the Price

The video of Indian Air Defence shooting down Pakistani JF-17 fighter Jet... Boom  pic.twitter.com/qZWuBs0xDq  Mr Sinha (@MrSinha_) May 6, 2025

The government further mentioned that India exercised restraint and precision during the strikes. We have carefully selected the targets to avoid civilian or military installations. This response is part of our promise that those involved in the Pahalgam massacre will be held accountable, the statement read.

PM Modi Gives Green Light to Indian Armed Forces

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a high-level defence meeting on April 29, gave the Indian armed forces complete freedom to decide how, when, and where to strike. This gave the military the flexibility it needed to plan and execute Operation Sindoor with accuracy and confidence.

Over 100 Terrorists Eliminated

Top security officials reported that over 80 terrorists were killed in these targeted precision strikes. These strikes were not random  they were aimed at known terrorist camps and launchpads actively involved in cross-border attacks against India.

India Attacks Pakistan's Terror Hubs: Here Are the 9 Sites Hit During Operation Sindoor

Heres a list of the nine major terrorist locations that were struck during Operation Sindoor:

Bahawalpur: About 100 km from the International Border, this is the main headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).

Muridke: Located 30 km from the border opposite Samba, its a well-known Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) training centre.

Gulpur: Situated 35 km from the Line of Control (LoC) in the Poonch-Rajouri region.

Sawai Camp: An LeT camp located 30 km inside PoK, in the Tangdhar Sector.

Bilal Camp: A crucial JeM launchpad, used for planning terror activities.

Kotli Camp: An LeT base only 15 km from the LoC, opposite the Rajouri area.

Barnala Camp: Just 10 km from the LoC, this base is also located opposite Rajouri.

Sarjal Camp: A JeM camp just 8 km from the International Border near Samba-Kathua.

Mehmoona Camp: Located 15 km from the International Border near Sialkot, this is a known Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) training facility.

Operation Sindoor Sends a Strong Message to Pakistan

With Operation Sindoor, India has sent a loud and clear message to Pakistan that terrorist activities will not go unpunished. This mission shows India's commitment to protecting its people and taking strong action against those who threaten its national security.

India Attacks Pakistan Terror Camps with Precision and Purpose

Unlike previous strikes, this operation was conducted with greater precision, planning, and intelligence. The fact that only terrorist infrastructure was hit proves Indias focus was only on neutralising the threat, not escalating tensions with Pakistan.

Operation Sindoor stands as another example of Indias strong stance against terrorism. The Indian armed forces have once again shown their courage and capability in dealing with threats across the border. While the operation was carefully planned to avoid any military escalation, it delivered a strong blow to those plotting attacks against India. The world has now seen that India will not hesitate to act when the safety of its people is at risk.

Watch - Operation Sindoor: How Pakistan and China reacted to Indias strike
US Vice President JD Vance called Wednesday for direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine on ending the grinding three-year war that started with Moscow's invasion.

"We think it's probably impossible for us to mediate this entirely without at least some direct negotiation between the two. And so that's what we focus on," Vance told the Munich Leaders Meeting in Washington.

He acknowledged that the concessions Russia was demanding remained unacceptable to the United States but expressed some hope that a path toward negotiations could still be found.

War shows no signs of immediate end, says Vance

Despite diplomatic efforts, Vance made it clear that the war is likely to continue in the near term. In a recent interview with Fox News, he said the conflict was not going to end any time soon. His comments came shortly after Washington and Kyiv signed a key minerals agreement that includes peace as a long-term goal.

While acknowledging the pain caused by the Russian invasion, Vance questioned whether the ongoing loss of lives over minor territorial shifts could be justified.

Of course they (the Ukrainians) are angry that they were invaded, but are we going to continue to lose thousands and thousands of soldiers over a few miles of territory this or that way? Vance asked.

Trump envoy meets Putin amid peace push

Previosly Vance also referred to what he called a big breakthrough during the Trump administration's informal efforts to mediate. President Donald Trump had earlier claimed that Russia and Ukraine were very close to a deal, following a meeting between his envoy, Steve Witkoff, and Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin.

JD Vance calls for direct Russia-Ukraine peace talks | Credit: X

Trump has repeatedly stated he would resolve the war within 24 hours of returning to office, though formal negotiations have so far stalled. Two direct calls between Trump and Putin, and several meetings, have yet to yield tangible progress.

Russia rejects US-backed ceasefire proposal

One major sticking point remains Moscow's refusal to accept a 30-day ceasefire plan proposed by the U.S. and accepted by Ukraine. Russia continues to insist that the territories it captured during the war be recognised as part of its federation  a demand that violates international law and is seen as a non-starter by most global powers.

Meanwhile, Russian attacks across Ukraine continue, with cities far from the frontlines bombed almost daily.

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.
India launched a series of air and missile strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) early Wednesday under Operation Sindoor. The move came nearly two weeks after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 civilians, including two tourists from Andhra Pradesh. In the wake of the operation and rising tensions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has cancelled his upcoming three-nation Europe tour.

JeM, LeT strongholds targeted in 25-minute precision operation

According to the Defence Ministry, nine terror targets were hit between 1:05 am and 1:30 am. These included key bases of Jaish-e-Mohammed in Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Muridke. The strikes were described by Indian officials as measured, proportionate, and non-escalatory, avoiding civilian and military establishments. However, Pakistan has alleged civilian casualties and termed the action an act of war.

Civilians relocated from LoC villages

As a precautionary step, India has started relocating its citizens living close to the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir to safer zones. This comes amid threats of retaliation from Pakistan, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif promising a befitting reply and stating that Indias actions will not go unanswered.

PM Modi | Credit: X

Military voices back government's move

Former Indian Army Chief General Shankar Roychowdhury praised the operation and said such actions are essential to keeping terror threats in check. Calling the strikes a great operation with excellent planning, he noted the importance of continuing similar responses to cross-border terrorism.

Diplomatic fallout and rising security measures

In light of the escalating situation, PM Modi has cancelled his scheduled visits to Croatia, Norway, and the Netherlands. He was set to attend the Nordic Summit, but official sources confirmed that the trip has been called off and foreign governments have been notified. Meanwhile, Indias External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has briefed counterparts in Germany, France, and other nations about the situation.


Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said Indias response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam was necessary and measured. While India avoided civilian or military targets and focused only on terror hideouts, Pakistans reaction has led to civilian casualties. The Chief Minister said that now it is for Pakistan to decide whether it wants to escalate or move towards de-escalation.

India responded only after Pahalgam attack

According to Abdullah, India was left with no choice but to respond to the attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people. He said that Jammu and Kashmir had been stable, tourism was improving, and there was peace at the Line of Control. "These are not the circumstances we created," he said, adding that India only acted because of the attack. Under 'Operation Sindoor', India targeted nine terror-linked sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, including Muzaffarabad, Bahawalpur, and Neelum Valley. Government sources said 70 terrorists were killed, and 60 were injured in the missile strikes.

Pakistans response hit civilians, says Abdullah

While India made sure its strikes were limited to terror bases, Abdullah said Pakistan responded with arbitrary and indiscriminate firing across the LoC and International Border. This shelling, according to the Chief Minister, has killed three civilians in the Poonch sector, including a 12-year-old girl and a 10-year-old boy. He said the Pakistani response was anything but proportionate and had clearly targeted civilian areas. He said he had spoken to district officials and confirmed the reports.

Omar Abdullah | Credit: X

J&K government steps up Civilian protection

Abdullah held a video conference with district collectors and reviewed the security situation along the LoC. He said additional ambulances have been moved to forward areas, and focus is currently on safeguarding lives. The Finance Department has been directed to release contingency funds for those killed in the attacks, with additional assistance for those along the LoC. At the moment, we cant do much more because the shelling is ongoing, he said, but assured that the government is monitoring the situation and would act as needed.
iPhone 19 Air to come with a larger display: Apple fans, prepare yourself for some amazing news! Fans are curious about the recent revelation that has spawned rumors about the tech giant's plans for its future iPhone series. Insiders claim that Apple is developing a new model that is sure to draw attention.

Although specifics are still being worked out, one thing is for sure: this new gadget is creating a lot of talk. What's the latest breakthrough from Apple, and what's behind the hype?

In this post, we'll examine the most recent report and what awaits iPhone enthusiasts. Let's examine what appears to be an interesting development in the Apple world in more detail.

iPhone 19 Air expected launch timeline

iPhone 19 series expected to launch in 2027 | Credit: Macrumors

Reputable industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts that Apple will release a larger-screen iPhone 19 Air in the second half of 2027 on the 20th Anniversary of Apple.

As the corporation wants to broaden its iPhone portfolio, this model will be part of Apple's expanding product plan and is expected to replace the iPhone 18 Air, which is expected to appear in 2026.

Must Read: Fortnite iPhone relaunch: Epic games brings popular battle royale game back to Apple devices

iPhone 19 Air expected specifications

In contrast to the iPhone 18 Air model, which is anticipated to launch a year earlier, the iPhone 19 Air will have a larger display, per Kuo's most recent forecast detailing Apple's roadmap through 2027.

Although the device's precise dimensions were not revealed, Kuo made it clear in his product schedule that it will provide "a larger display vs. 18 Slim". Kuo most likely uses the term "Slim" to refer to Apple's predicted ultra-thin handset, which we are calling the iPhone 17 Air and the first of which is anticipated this September.

With a 6.6-inch screen, the reported iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to be bigger than the iPhone 17 but smaller than the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Apple's larger plan to broaden its product offerings in response to pressure from competitors seems to include the enlarged Air lineup.

"Intense competition, particularly in China," is cited by Kuo as a major factor in Apple's intentions to switch to a bi-annual release cycle in 2026.

For the latest and more interesting tech news, keep reading Indiatimes Tech.
Civil defence mock drills in India: In light of rising tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly after the launch of Operation Sindoor in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, mock drill exercises are being conducted across India. These drills, known as Operation Abhyas, are part of an extensive civil defence programme aimed at preparing the public and emergency services for various potential threats. Today, this nationwide operation is being carried out in over 244 districts, including major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.

Watch - Operation Sindoor: How Pakistan and China reacted to Indias strike

Civil Defence Mock Drills: A Key National Security Measure

The primary objective of these civil defence mock drills is to simulate real-world scenarios, where the nation faces crises such as air raids, fire emergencies, or terror attacks. By practising mock drill exercises, India aims to enhance public awareness and improve the response time of emergency services. These exercises are essential to maintain readiness and ensure the safety of civilians during unexpected attacks or disasters.

Operation Abhyas: A Nationwide Drill

Operation Abhyas, which is being conducted in several parts of the country, simulates multiple hostile scenarios. These include:

Air raid warnings and activation of sirens

Urban fire emergencies

Search and rescue operations

Casualty evacuation

Setting up temporary hospitals

Evacuating civilians to safety zones or bunkers

The exercise follows a strict set of guidelines to ensure proper safety and organisation. For instance, once an air raid warning is issued, the public is advised to seek immediate shelter, shut curtains, stay indoors, and cut off gas and electrical supplies. Vehicular traffic is also halted, and citizens are expected to follow further instructions for their safety.

Key Locations for Mock Drill Exercises Across India

This national security exercise spans several cities, with various drills taking place throughout India. Heres a glimpse of the major cities where mock drills are being conducted:

Jabalpur: Water Drill on the Narmada River

Jabalpur Mock drills | Credit: IANS

In Jabalpur, a water drill was carried out on the Narmada River as part of the mock drill. Participants held India's national flags during the exercise, which is just one example of how diverse these drills can be in preparing for different emergencies.

Prayagraj: Students Engaged in Mock Drill Simulations

Prayagraj Mock Drill | Credit: IANS

In Prayagraj, civil defence workers demonstrated emergency response skills by carrying students during the mock drill. The drill focused on safety procedures and evacuation techniques that could be used in real-life emergencies.

Lucknow: NCC Cadets Practice Emergency Procedures

Lucknow Mock Drill | Credit: BCCL

In Lucknow, NCC cadets participated in a mock drill exercise at Lucknow University. These young cadets were trained on how to respond to different types of crises, such as natural disasters or terror attacks.

New Delhi: School Students Participate in Nationwide Drills

New Delhi mock drill | Credit: BCCL

New Delhi schools took part in an emergency mock drill, where students were trained to evacuate their classrooms in a controlled, safe manner. This drill is part of a broader initiative to teach children about emergency preparedness.

Kolkata: Schoolchildren Take Cover During Mock Drill

Kolkata Mock Drill | Credit: IANS

In Kolkata, schoolchildren took shelter under their benches during the civil defence mock drill. This exercise helped teach them how to stay safe during unexpected situations like airstrikes or bomb threats.

Patna: Security Mock Drill at Airport

Patna mock drill | Credit: ANI

Patna's Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport was the site of a mock drill where CISF personnel conducted security checks. This exercise was aimed at preparing security forces for potential threats, such as terror attacks.

Bengaluru: Police Practice Emergency Procedures

Bengaluru Mock Drill | Credit: IANS

In Bengaluru, police personnel were seen turning on sirens at the VV Tower building during the mock drill. The exercise was designed to simulate a real emergency response, including how to manage public safety and control panic.

Ahmedabad: Firefighters and Paramedics Practice Emergency Responses

Ahmedabad mock drill | Credit: AP

In Ahmedabad, fire brigade personnel and paramedics participated in an emergency mock drill at a local mall. The drill helped prepare emergency services for any potential fire or rescue operation in crowded spaces.

Chennai: CISF Personnel Drill at Chennai Port Trust

Chennai mock drill | Credit: IANS

At the Chennai Port Trust, CISF officers participated in a mock drill to enhance their skills in responding to security threats and managing crisis situations in the port area.

Mumbai: Volunteers Take Part in Emergency Simulation

Mumbai mock drill | Credit: BCCL

In Mumbai, civil defence volunteers took part in a mock drill to simulate emergency evacuation and rescue procedures. The drill trained participants to respond swiftly and safely in the event of a disaster.

Indore: NCC Cadets Train for Airstrike Emergencies

Indore mock drill | Credit: BCCL

Indore hosted a mock drill for NCC cadets at the Police Training College. The exercise focused on teaching cadets how to respond during airstrike alerts, providing valuable hands-on experience in dealing with high-pressure situations.

Mock Drills Across 244 Districts in India: Why They Matter

Indias civil defence measures are more critical than ever, especially in light of growing security threats. The mock drill exercises provide practical experience for both civilians and emergency response teams, enabling them to react efficiently in the event of an actual attack or disaster. These drills are spread across 244 districts in India, with a special focus on regions most vulnerable to attacks. West Bengal, Rajasthan, Assam, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir have the highest number of designated civil defence districts.

A Crucial Step in National Security

Mock drills like Operation Abhyas are a testament to Indias proactive approach to security and disaster management. With tensions between India and Pakistan at a high, these drills help the public stay alert and prepared for any eventuality. Whether it's air raid warnings, fire emergencies, or evacuations during terror attacks, these drills ensure that India is ready to face any challenge head-on.

Watch - Operation Sindoor planning and execution explained

To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending.
Kim Soo Hyun is facing renewed controversy after serious allegations were raised during a press conference held in Gangnam-gu, Seoul. Members of the Garo Sero Institute, along with legal representatives of the late Kim Sae Rons family, presented an audio recording in which Kim Sae Ron allegedly claimed she had a sexual relationship with the actor while she was still in middle school.

Kim Sae Ron admits to having sex with Kim Soo Hyun in middle school

Audio recordings revealed by Garo Sero Institute show Kim Sae Ron admitting to having sex with Kim Soo Hyun when she was in 8th grade. The recording, reportedly from January 10, 2025, captured a conversation between Kim Sae Ron and an unnamed acquaintance, referred to as 'A'. In the audio, Kim confirmed that she and Kim Soo Hyun had dated during her middle school years and continued their relationship into her university days.

"People will say I'm crazy and don't believe it but we dated in junior high school and broke up when we went to college," she says in the recording. "I started dating him when I was underage (a minor), then went to college for a while and then broke up," she added.

When asked whether she had become an adult during that time, Kim Sae Ron replied that they first had sex during the winter vacation of her 8th grade year.

Kim Sae Ron was alarmed about her relationship with Kim Soo Hyun

In the audio recording, Kim Sae Ron further told acquaintance A, The first time [we had sex] was when I was in 8th grade, during the winter vacation.

The acquaintance reacted with shock and concern, suggesting that Kim had been taken advantage of at the time. Kim Sae Ron acknowledged the possibility, saying, Even then F***, thinking about it now, should I say that I was being taken advantage of?

The conversation continued with the acquaintance expressing outrage and anger toward Kim Soo Hyun, calling him explicit names and questioning how he had gone unpunished. "Im seriously going to kill him, that f***er," the acquaintance said.

Kim added that although only a few people had known about their relationship during her middle school years, those who did were alarmed and questioned why she hadnt spoken out sooner.

"There arent many people that know that we dated when I was in middle school, but they all had the same reaction. They saw me as the crazy one and asked why I was letting him get away with it," added another user.

As of now, Kim Soo Hyun has not made any public statement regarding the allegations. No legal action has been announced in connection to the claims disclosed in the recording.

For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.
The bereaved family of the late Kim Sae Ron held a press conference on May 7, 2025 in Samseong-dong, Seoul, drawing widespread attention and public outrage. The event was led by Bu Ji-seok, the family's legal representative, alongside Kim Se-ui of the Garo Sero Institute. During the press conference, a video recording allegedly featuring Kim Sae Ron was revealed, in which she claimed to have had a sexual relationship with actor Kim Soo Hyun when she was just 14 years old.

The revelation sent shockwaves across social media, with many netizens expressing disgust and calling for legal action if the claims are verified. However, there is also a growing debate over the authenticity of the audio. Some netizens have urged caution, raising concerns that the recording may have been fabricated or taken out of context.

   



-           



-     



-  2    pic.twitter.com/cYTXXqWSIQ   (@29485_) May 7, 2025

What happens if the recording is authentic? Legal experts weigh in

After the release of a recording involving Kim Soo Hyun, Kim Sae Ron's family has filed charges against the actor for violating the Child Welfare Act. Legal experts say that if the audio is proven authentic, prosecution may be possible.

Attorney Noh Jong-eon of the law firm Jonjae said in an interview with TV Report, "If the evidence released by Kim Sae Ron's family is genuine, it could become an important lead for police investigations."

However, he also cautioned about the legal complexities involved. "In sex crime cases, the victim's consistent testimony is key. But since the victim has sadly passed away, it's difficult to secure additional evidence. The outcome of the investigation will depend on how actively the police pursue further inquiry," Kbizoom reported.

Kim Sae Ron's alleged recording

He also elaborated, "For a Child Welfare Act violation to be established, the case must be quite complex. It's not just about whether there was sexual activityit must also involve emotional abuse. While the public may feel strong suspicions, we must not overlook the principle of 'presumption of innocence'."

On the matter of legal standards, he added, "An indictment must specify the time, place and method of the crime. There is a recording, but no further testimony, which means there's a lack of material to use in an indictment. The police must conduct thorough interviews with surrounding witnesses and examine the accused, Kim Soo Hyun, in detail to substantiate the case. The outcome will depend on the police's level of commitment."

Impact on Kim Soo Hyun's career

He also addressed the potential impact on Kim Soo Hyun's current projects. The attorney said, "This case is closely tied to a potential penalty involving Disney+'s Knock-Off. If Kim Soo Hyun has been falsely accused, he could sue the family for damages.

Conversely, if the family's claims are true, Kim Soo Hyun could be liable for tens of billions of won in penalty fees. Since this case is such a major public issue, the police are likely feeling significant pressure regarding the investigation."

For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.
Operation Sindoor: Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, an inspiring officer of the Indian armed forces, became the centre of attention after she led the official Operation Sindoor briefing alongside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh. This came shortly after India attacked Pakistan, destroying at least nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to a brutal terrorist strike in Pahalgam.

Col. Sofiya Qureshi & Wg Cdr Vyomika Singh to brief media on #OperationSindoor the symbolism is powerful:



Two women in uniform leading a mission named after Sindoor, a mark of strength, sacrifice & Shakti.

Bharat is not just fighting, its redefining.  https://t.co/EYG8cHGb4C pic.twitter.com/Y8rdBlUP71  Prayag (@theprayagtiwari) May 7, 2025

Her presence, along with that of another woman officer, marks a proud and historic moment for India-showing the rising role of women in defence and honouring the brave hearts lost in recent attacks.

Who is Col Sofiya Qureshi?

Col Sofiya Qureshi, hailing from Vadodara in Gujarat, is a respected officer in the Signals Corps of the Indian Army. With a postgraduate degree in biochemistry, she joined the army through the Short Service Commission in 1999. Today, she stands as a shining example of determination, discipline, and patriotic spirit in the Indian armed forces.

Her deep-rooted connection to the army began in childhood- her grandfather and father both served in the Indian Army. Her father, a religious teacher in the army, influenced her journey, as did stories of her great-grandfather, who served in the British Army. Her husband is also a proud soldier in the Mechanised Infantry, according to Money Control.

When asked why she chose the army, she simply said, Love for the country, respect, and pride in wearing the uniform.

Leading History: First Woman to Command a Multinational Army Team

Back in March 2016, Sofiya Qureshi made history by becoming the first Indian woman officer to lead an army group in a multinational military exercise. She led a 40-member team during Exercise Force 18, held in Pune. The event saw participation from several countries including Japan, China, Russia, the United States, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and the ASEAN nations.

Among all military leaders, she was the only woman commanding a team-a moment that earned her nationwide admiration.

General Bipin Rawat had then remarked, She wasnt selected because shes a woman. She was chosen because she has the ability to lead. The Indian Army gives equal opportunities to all.

Operation Sindoor Briefing: A New Chapter in Womens Role

During the Operation Sindoor briefing, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi stood as a symbol of strength and competence. The operation, launched in response to a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, involved precision strikes by Indian forces targeting terrorist camps across the border. The success of Operation Sindoor is seen as a major achievement in Indias defence strategy, showing the world that the Indian Army can and will attack Pakistan if provoked.

The fact that two women officers were selected to brief the nation during such a crucial mission reflects the increasing trust the army places in its female personnel.

Her Role in Peacekeeping and National Missions

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi has been part of various high-risk operations. She served during Operation Parakram near the Punjab border and has taken part in flood relief efforts in northeastern India. Her bravery earned her recognition from top military commanders, including a commendation card from the Chief Signal Officer.

She has also contributed to international peace efforts. In 2006, she was part of a peacekeeping mission in Congo. Later, in 2010, she was appointed as a peacekeeping trainer, showcasing her expertise on a global stage.

A Message to Women Across India

As one of the most decorated and respected women in the army, Sofiya Qureshi continues to inspire young Indian women. In one of her interviews, she urged, Join the army. Theres no greater pride than serving your nation.

Her leadership during the Operation Sindoor briefing, her involvement in missions against terrorists, and her unmatched dedication to the Indian armed forces serve as a reminder that courage knows no gender. As India faces threats from across the border, including from Pakistan, women like Col Qureshi are leading the charge-both on the battlefield and in national security briefings.

Colonel Sofiya Qureshis journey is not just a story of a brave army officer; its the story of modern India. From leading troops during international military exercises to stepping up during key moments like the Operation Sindoor briefing, her contributions are shaping the future of the Indian armed forces.

As India continues to strengthen its response to terrorist threats and takes bold steps to attack Pakistan when necessary, leaders like Sofiya Qureshi will remain at the forefront-reminding us all what true patriotism looks like.

Watch what she said during the Operation Sindoor briefing

#WATCH | #OperationSindoor, Col. Sofiya Qureshi says, "Operation Sindoor was launched to give justice to victims of Pahalgam terrorist attack. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and destroyed." pic.twitter.com/8nbLHN6a3k  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

#WATCH | Delhi | #OperationSindoor| Col. Sofiya Qureshi, while addressing the media, presents videos showing multiple hits on the Mundrike and other terrorist camps in Pakistan and PoJK. pic.twitter.com/Ih21EklEe5  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025





Watch - Operation Sindoor: How Pakistan and China reacted to Indias strike

To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending.
Despite the longstanding no phones policy at the Met Gala, some of this years biggest names just couldnt resist snapping a few moments behind the velvet curtain. The 2025 theme, Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, paired with a Tailored for You dress code, inspired stunning looks but not without plenty of rule-breaking selfies once inside the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 5.

Among the rebels were BLACKPINKs Jennie and Lisa, Sabrina Carpenter, Megan Thee Stallion, Halle Bailey, Sydney Sweeney, and more. Whether it was in the glam-packed bathroom or tucked away during dinner, Anna Wintour may or may not approve of it, but phones were out.

Sabrinas bathroom moment with Jennie, Angele, and Whitney Peak

Sabrina Carpenter is now the new name added to the unofficial Met Gala bathroom selfie saga. Taking a page out of Kylie Jenner's 2017 book, Sabrina shared a mirror snap featuring herself, BLACKPINKs Jennie, Belgian pop artist Angele, and Gossip Girl actress Whitney Peak.

Megan Thee Stallions "Hottie Cam" takes over dinner

Forget a selfie, Megan Thee Stallion shot a whole video. Her self-proclaimed "Hottie Cam" gave fans a glimpse into her Met Gala experience, featuring clips of her with WNBA star Angel Reese and rapper Doechii as they sampled caviar cornbread and lobster rolls. At one moment, Megan laughed, We're not supposed to have our phones, while Tracee Ellis Ross jokingly told her to put it away.

She also shared candid moments with legends like Angela Bassett, Serena Williams, and Ciara, turning the Met into her own personal afterparty cam.

Halle Bailey joins the fun with Sydney Sweeney and Lisa

The selfie ban didnt seem to stop The Little Mermaid star Halle Bailey either. She was caught in a photo with Sydney Sweeney and BLACKPINKs Lisa, casually posing like it wasnt a Met Gala rule-break. The trio looked effortlessly cool about it, making it look like an impromptu hangout instead of one of the most exclusive nights in fashion.

LISA, SYDNEY SWEENEY & HALLE BAILEY SELFIE pic.twitter.com/SWYiXW0Wpe  honors lisa (@honorslisa) May 6, 2025

Questlove turns the Met bathroom into a tribute

In perhaps the most on-theme selfie of the night, Questlove gathered a powerhouse group that included Cynthia Erivo, Ayo Edebiri, Tracee Ellis Ross, Brian Tyree Henry, Evan Ross, and more for a bathroom photo moment. Before the shot, Questlove rallied the group to say Black s**t, tying the candid moment back to the night's celebration of Black style. The group burst into laughter after the photo.

While the Met Gala might officially frown on phones, for many of this years guests, a selfie was just too tempting to pass up. After all, when youre dressed in couture and surrounded by icons, sometimes the moment deserves a photo. Or a video.

For more news and updates from the world of OTT and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.
In the early hours of 7 May 2025, India carried out a carefully coordinated military operation named Operation Sindoor, launching precision strikes on nine identified terror bases located in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). The strikes were conducted in response to a recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 individuals, including one Nepali national, which happened on April 22, Tuesday. And now, the Operation Sindoor took place exactly two weeks after the attack.

When did Operation Sindoor happen?

According to official sources, the strikes that took place on Wednesday were executed with the cooperation of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The operation was highly focused, involving the use of special precision munitions to eliminate camps associated with terror organisations such as Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. These groups have a history of orchestrating cross-border terror operations targeting India.

What were the locations for the Operation Sindoor

Out of the nine locations struck, four were deep within Pakistani territory, including Bahawalpur (100 km), Muridke (30 km), Gulpur (35 km) and Sawai Camp (30 km). The remaining five camps were located in PoK, namely Kotli (15 km), Barnala (10 km), Sarjal (8 km), Mehmoona (15 km), and Bilal Camp, for which the distance was not specified. Each of these sites is believed to have harboured or trained members of militant organisations.

In a statement, Indias Ministry of Defence clarified that the targets were chosen with precision to avoid escalation, emphasising that no Pakistani military installations were hit. The statement further mentioned that India exercised restraint by only targeting infrastructure directly connected to terror activities against the country. The government reiterated its commitment to holding those responsible for the Pahalgam massacre accountable, regardless of their location.

PM of Pakistani reacts to the strikes

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the strikes, stating that they constituted an act of war. He warned that Pakistan retains the right to retaliate and claimed that both the countrys military and its citizens stand prepared to defend the nation. Sharifs remarks underscored the severity with which Pakistan views the cross-border operation, potentially increasing tensions in the region.

Global reactions on the war situation between India and Pakistan

International attention quickly turned toward South Asia following the operation. United States Senator Marco Rubio commented that he is closely observing the developments and intends to remain in contact with officials from both nations to encourage a peaceful resolution. Echoing sentiments earlier expressed by President Donald Trump, Rubio hoped the situation would de-escalate soon.

President Trump, speaking shortly after the news broke, noted that the strikes were not unexpected, given the long-standing tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. He acknowledged the historical context of conflict between India and Pakistan and expressed a desire for the situation to stabilise rapidly.

Reporter: Any reaction to the attacks between India and Pakistan?



Trump: It's a shame. We just heard about it as we were walking in the doors of the oval. Just heard about it. I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. They've been pic.twitter.com/lGfWsEZNuL  Acyn (@Acyn) May 6, 2025

Domestic precautions and school closures

Back home, the Indian government has taken precautionary measures to ensure civilian safety. As per a directive issued by the Divisional Commissioner of Jammu, all schools, colleges, and educational institutions in the districts of Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri, and Poonch will remain closed on 7 May 2025. These closures are a part of the governments broader civil defence preparedness strategy and aim to minimise risk in the event of any escalation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been actively monitoring the situation and Operation Sindoor, and reiterated that those responsible for supporting terrorism on Indian soil would face consequences, regardless of their location.

The governments swift and strategic action through Operation Sindoor underscores a shift in Indias counterterrorism approach, measured, direct, and backed by strong international awareness, while also preparing its civil infrastructure for any fallout.
'Operation Sindoor', the retaliatory strike by India, which aimed at nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, triggered widespread airspace restrictions and resulted in the temporary shutdown of at least 18 airports, impacting the IPL 2025 matches as well.

Apart from airspace restrictions, the travel plans of the Mumbai Indians have been hit owing to the closure of airports in Chandigarh and Dharamsala. This, in turn, has impacted the IPL 2025 matches there; Punjab Kings (PBKS) vs Mumbai Indians (MI) is likely to be shifted.

The PBKS vs. MI match is likely to shift dates

Following Operation Sindoor, several airports, including those at cities on the border of Pakistan, have been shut till May 10. Amid this, PBKS, who are already present at the venue, do not have any issues.

Credit: X

But the Mumbai Indians have refused to travel to Dharamsala during the PBKS vs. MI match on May 11, and it is likely to be shifted to Mumbai. However, there is no official confirmation on the same yet.

As per Network 18, the PBKS vs. MI match scheduled for May 11 has been shifted from Dharamsala to Mumbai, though there is no confirmation on the same yet. But the cancelled flights and the closed airports could hamper the travel plans of PBKS.





Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians are stranded due to Operation Sindoor

According to a Toi report, a BCCI official stated that the team will need to wait and watch the approach to determine a solution for the same.

Moreover, the official also mentioned that MI was scheduled to arrive in Dharamsala on May 10, but now it faces some uncertainty because of the proximity of Chandigarh airport. While Delhi remains a potential option, it would require the team to undertake a long journey to reach Dharamsala.

What is Operation Sindoor?

Operation Sindoor has been conducted by the Indian Armed Forces, targeting 9 locations harbouring terrorists in Pakistan and Pok on the night of May 7. The move by India is a retaliation against Pakistan after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which took place on April 22, 2025. Following this, many flights have been cancelled and airports are closed.

To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending.
In response to the brutal Pahalgam terror attack that shocked the nation, India launched a cross-border counter-strike targeting nine terror infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). But this operation was more than just a military exerciseit carried a name that held cultural, emotional, and symbolic weight: Operation Sindoor.

What does the name Operation Sindoor signify?

The word sindoor (vermillion) is traditionally worn by married Hindu women as a sign of their husbands life and presence. It is not just a cosmetic tradition, it carries deep social and spiritual significance. By choosing this as the name for the operation, India made a deliberate and powerful statement. This was not only a strike on terrorist infrastructure but a tribute to the lives that were lost in Pahalgam, especially the newly married men who were targeted for their faith.

The Pahalgam attack

The Pahalgam massacre on April 22 had a specific brutality. In Baisaran, a popular spot with honeymooners, terrorists selectively killed Hindu men, executing them at point-blank range. Among those who drew national attention was Himanshi Narwal, a newlywed who was seen mourning beside the body of her husband, Navy officer Lieutenant Vinay Narwal. Her sindoor, the symbol of her marital bond, was missing in the images that followedsignifying a loss that went beyond personal grief and touched a national nerve.

The Operation Sindoor

And now, exactly two weeks after the attack, Operation Sindoor took place. Through Operation Sindoor, India sought to give meaning to that grief. The operation was a blend of military precision and emotional response. It was carried out jointly by the Indian Army and Indian Air Force using targeted ammunition in the early hours of May 7. According to statements from the defence establishment, the operation focused strictly on terror launch pads and infrastructure, avoiding Pakistani military assets, to maintain a calibrated, non-escalatory approach.

The cultural connection with the name Operation Sindoor

But the mission name was where the message lay. Sindoor also carries a warriors significance in Indian history. From Rajputs to Marathas, warriors applied vermillion tilaks on their foreheads before heading into battle, a symbol of courage and righteousness (Dharma). In this case, Operation Sindoor represents both mourning and resolve, the pain of lives unjustly taken and the strength to respond with honour.

The Defence Ministry reiterated Indias commitment to acting responsibly and with precision. Officials explained that the choice of name was deliberate, it connected the cultural context of the victims with the broader message of national strength. This mission, they said, was not just about retaliation but about remembrance and justice.

By calling it Operation Sindoor, India is not letting the Pahalgam tragedy become another statistic. It is preserving the identity of the victims and recognising their humanity in the nations collective memory. The symbolism ensures that their stories are not lost in the fog of conflict.

In essence, Operation Sindoor stands as a powerful reminder that Indias defence is not only rooted in strategy but also in sentiment. It is a response born from grief, guided by tradition, and executed with discipline.
Following the Indian Armed Forces' cross-border strikes under Operation Sindoor in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, several Pakistani celebrities have allegedly publicly denounced the military move. The operation, launched at midnight on May 7, reportedly targeted nine terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

Operation Sindoor

In the aftermath of the strikes, leading Pakistani actresses allegedly took to social media to voice their disapproval, calling Indias actions unjust and aggressive. Mahira Khan reshared a tweet by writer Fatima Bhutto, expressing her dismay over the attack. While she refrained from naming India directly, her Instagram story described the strike as seriously cowardly and prayed for her country's safety, asking for better sense to prevail.

Hania Aamir calls Operation Sindoor a 'cowardly attack'

Actor Hania Aamir echoed similar sentiments. She posted a one-word reaction on her Instagram story, simply writing Cowardly, and another alleged screenshot is making rounds in which Hania is saying, "I have a lot of anger..." making her stance on the matter unmistakably clear. Meanwhile, Mawra Hocane posted on X (formerly Twitter), denouncing the strikes and mourning the loss of civilian lives. She referred to the attack as cowardly and expressed hope for peace, calling on divine protection for Pakistan.

Hania Aamir calls Operation Sindoor a 'cowardly attack'

Hania Aamir calls Operation Sindoor a 'cowardly attack' | Credit: X

Strongly condemn Indias cowardly attack on Pakistan..

Innocent civilians have lost their lives..



May Allah protect us all.. may sense prevail..



Ya Allah ho Ya Hafizo.. #PakistanZindabad  MAWRA (@MawraHocane) May 6, 2025

Mahira Khan, Fawad Khan and other Pakistani actors strongly react to Operation Sindoor

Their comments gained more attention as several Pakistani celebrities, including Mahira Khan, Fawad Khan, Ali Zafar, Atif Aslam, Sajal Aly, and Ahad Raza Mir, found their Instagram accounts restricted in India. Users attempting to view these profiles in India were met with a message stating, Account not available in India. This is because we complied with a legal request to restrict this content.

Mahira Khan on instagram pic.twitter.com/5nLh9Iu5JP  ray (@rayainalif) May 6, 2025

Operation Sindoor

Operation Sindoor followed the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives. As per the Indian Ministry of Defence, the operation was a set of focused strikes aimed at dismantling terror planning facilities across the border. While the Indian government clarified that no Pakistani military installations were targeted, the response from Pakistan included heavy shelling across areas near the Line of Control, particularly in the Poonch and Rajouri districts.

Adding to the tensions, the Indian government reportedly banned the release of Abir Gulaal, a Bollywood film featuring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor, which was scheduled for release on May 9.

As political tensions rise, so do the voices of cultural icons, highlighting the increasingly blurred lines between cinema and conflict.
In the wake of India's midnight military response to the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistani fashion designer Zara Shahjahan found herself at the centre of online outrage for her remarks on Indian actors Shah Rukh Khan and Diljit Dosanjh.

Operation Sindoor strike

On May 7, India carried out Operation Sindoor, a joint strike by the Army, Navy and Air Force, targeting nine terrorist locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This came after a terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed 26 lives, including that of a Nepalese national.

Zara Shahjahan compliments Shah Rukh Khan, Diljit Dosanjh amid India Vs Pakistan tension

As geopolitical tensions surged, Zara Shahjahan took to Instagram to express admiration for Shah Rukh Khan and Diljit Dosanjhs debut appearances at the Met Gala on May 5. Calling them stars of the subcontinent, she wrote that moments of global recognition felt bittersweet due to the strained relations between India and Pakistan.

Zara Shahjahan compliments Shah Rukh Khan, Diljit Dosanjh amid India Vs Pakistan tension | Credit: X

In her post, Shahjahan reflected on how artists from the region often symbolise a shared cultural past, but political realities prevent people from openly celebrating such moments. She described it as a strange thing to grow up admiring someone who may never be allowed to love you back.

And right after Operation Sindoor, Zara shared a statement on her Instagram account saying how she stands with Pakistan, and her support for SRK and Diljit comes from a cultural point of view.

Pakistani netizens react to Sanas compliment

However, the timing of her remarks was not well received. A section of Pakistani social media users reacted strongly, accusing her of being tone-deaf and disrespectful at a time of national grief and political unrest. Many labelled her comments as inappropriate given the circumstances, questioning her priorities and patriotism.

One user commented that the designers admiration was misplaced and disrespectful to those grieving. Others accused her of glorifying Indian celebrities when cross-border tensions were at their peak. Several posts expressed disbelief that she would refer to Shah Rukh Khan and Diljit Dosanjh as our stars.

Operation Sindoor

India, meanwhile, maintained that Operation Sindoor was a focused and measured response, targeting only terror infrastructure and avoiding Pakistani military installations. Officials reiterated that the operation was not intended to escalate conflict but to deliver justice to those responsible for the Pahalgam attack.

The backlash against Zara Shahjahan highlights how even cultural expression can become controversial during moments of heightened political tension, especially in a region marked by deep-rooted conflict and historical wounds.
Pakistani social media influencer Minahil Malik is once again under fire, but this time, it is not because of a leaked video. The TikToker, who previously trended for an alleged MMS controversy, has sparked fresh outrage after sharing a quote by Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor Khan amid heightened political tensions between India and Pakistan.

Mihanil Malik posts Kareena Kapoor Khans quote a few hours before Operation Sindoor

On the night of May 6, just after the tragic Pahalgam attack and hours before Operation Sindoor gained traction, Minahil shared a post featuring Kareena on her Instagram story. The quote, attributed to the actress, subtly addressed the topic of women being labelled as gold diggers. While it may have seemed like a casual celebrity appreciation post to some, many Pakistani followers found it to be deeply insensitive given the timing and current climate.

Pakistani TikToker Minahil Malik sparks outrage | Credit: Instagram

Fans troll Minahil Malik

Social media users quickly called her out for not standing by her country and prioritising Bollywood glam over national grief and crisis. The backlash has been intense, with several of her fans questioning her intentions and loyalty. Others resurfaced her past scandals, further intensifying the criticism.

Who is Minahil Malik?

For those unfamiliar, Minahil Malik is a prominent digital content creator in Pakistan with 1.8 million followers on Instagram. Known for her TikTok lip-syncs, makeup videos, and collaborations with local brands, she is also an ambassador for a popular Islamabad-based salon. Her content often features Bollywood songs and Indian pop culture references, which some believe adds to the controversy now.

Minahil Maliks leaked MMS

This is not the first time Minahil has been caught in a media storm. In October 2024, a video allegedly featuring her in an intimate setting with her boyfriend went viral online. Though the authenticity was never confirmed, the clip spread like wildfire. While some speculated it was a PR stunt, others defended her and criticised the invasion of privacy. Following the scandal, Minahil temporarily left social media, saying her goodbye in a message where she expressed her emotional exhaustion and need for space.

Now, as tensions run high between two neighbouring nations, her post has reopened old wounds and brought her back under a critical spotlight. Whether this was a thoughtless act or an intentional move remains unclear, but one thing is certain, Minahil Malik is once again the centre of a digital storm.
The high-flying Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have a golden opportunity to lift their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 trophy. However, as the tournament heads into its business end, the RCB camp has been hit by injuries and player unavailability due to national duties.

With 8 wins and 3 losses in 11 games, the Rajat Patidar-led side currently sits in second place on the points table. Still, some key players may miss the playoffs due to fitness concerns and international commitments. Here's a look at the players whose participation in the playoffs remains uncertain.

Devdutt Padikkal

RCB's No. 3 batter has been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2025 due to a hamstring injury. He had a strong season, scoring 247 runs in 10 matches at a strike rate of 150.61his best in any IPL campaign. In response, the team has quickly brought in Mayank Agarwal as a replacement for the rest of the tournament.

Josh Hazelwood

During the clash against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), it was revealed that the pacer was not part of the squad. It was later confirmed that he suffered a shoulder niggle. His absence was felt on the field, as Chennai managed to surpass the 200-run mark. Fortunately for RCB, they held their nerve and secured a narrow 2-run victory.

Rajat Patidar

RCB skipper Rajat Patidar was seen wearing a hand bandage after injuring his finger during the IPL 2025 match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The injury occurred when he attempted to stop a powerful shot from Ravindra Jadeja.

Phil Salt

Against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Jacob Bethell had to open alongside Virat Kohli after Phil Salt did not recover from his viral fever. The new opening duo gave RCB a solid start, but the team had to fight hard to secure a narrow 2-run victory. RCB will next face Lucknow Super Giants on May 9 and it will be to see if Salt is fit to play.

Romario Shephard

Brute power! 



In the blink of an eye,   blasted his way into the record books! #PlayBold #RCB #IPL2025 pic.twitter.com/yqczudVm3O  Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) May 6, 2025

Known as the 'Black Dragon,' the finisher delivered a stunning 53 off just 14 balls, including 4 boundaries and 6 sixes, against CSK. However, despite not being injured, reports suggest he may leave the team due to his selection for the West Indies' upcoming ODI series in England and Irelanda potential setback for RCB ahead of the Playoffs.

To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending.
Operation Sindoor: Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, a skilled IAF pilot, stood tall as one of the key faces of the Indian armed forces during the recent Operation Sindoor briefing. The operation was launched by India in response to a tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, where 26 innocent Indian tourists lost their lives.

As India carried out precise strikes across the Line of Control in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Vyomika Singh addressed the nation, sharing official updates and the outcomes of the mission. She was joined by Colonel Sofia Qureshi, representing the Army, as part of a rare joint press conference that also included the Navy.

Watch - Operation Sindoor: How Pakistan and China reacted to Indias strike

India Strikes Back: The Objective of Operation Sindoor

The Indian attack on Pakistan, codenamed Operation Sindoor, was a direct response to the brutal killing of civilians by terrorists. The Indian armed forces worked together to target terrorist camps across the border. During the Operation Sindoor briefing, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh detailed the goals, strategy, and results of the mission, showing the strength and unity of India's defence forces.

Her confident presence at the briefing reflected how the modern IAF pilot is not just a combat expert but also a spokesperson during critical national events.

Vyomika Singh's Childhood Dream of the Skies

Since childhood, Vyomika Singh dreamed of flying high. Her name itself, "Vyomika," means "one who belongs to the sky" or "daughter of the sky." This deep connection with the skies inspired her to pursue a career in the Indian Air Force.

She began her journey by joining the National Cadet Corps (NCC) during her school days. Later, she studied engineering and became the first member of her family to join the armed forces.

Rising Through the Ranks: Vyomika Singhs Career in the IAF

Details about Operation Sindoor shared by Col. Sofiya Queshi and Wing Cdr. Vyomika Singh



Real Nari Shakti  pic.twitter.com/PLnlHgDC3s  Vertigo_Warrior (@VertigoWarrior) May 7, 2025

Wing Commander Vyomika Singh earned her wings as a helicopter pilot and was granted a permanent commission in the flying branch of the Indian Air Force on December 18, 2019. Since then, she has completed over 2,500 flying hours, operating helicopters like the Chetak and Cheetah in extreme conditions.

Her flying missions have taken her across tough terrains in Jammu and Kashmir, the Northeast, and even during rescue efforts in Arunachal Pradesh. One of her key missions took place in November 2020, when she led a high-risk rescue operation in remote, mountainous areas under harsh weather conditions.

A Symbol of Strength: Women in Indias Defence Forces

In 2021, Vyomika Singh also took part in a special all-women mountaineering expedition to Mt. Manirang (21,650 feet), which included women from all three servicesArmy, Navy, and Air Force. The effort was appreciated by the Chief of Air Staff and showcased how women are increasingly taking on tough challenges in the Indian armed forces.

Her role in such high-endurance missions proves how women officers are playing vital roles not just in support, but in action-packed leadership positions as well.

Operation Sindoor Briefing: Vyomika Singh Represents the IAF on a National Stage

During the official Operation Sindoor briefing, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh explained India's bold steps in countering terrorism and highlighted the professionalism of the armed forces. Her appearance marked a significant moment, as only a few women have ever represented the Indian armed forces at such a major joint media event.

She spoke clearly and confidently about the mission, which was India's way to send a strong message against terrorism and ensure the safety of its citizens.

A Role Model in Uniform

IAF pilot Vyomika Singh has become a national symbol of courage, dedication, and professionalism. Her journey from a young dreamer to a senior Indian Air Force officer shows what determination and passion can achieve.

As India attacks Pakistan in retaliation for terrorist acts, officers like Wing Commander Vyomika Singh play a crucial rolenot just in flying and fighting, but also in informing and inspiring the nation. Her role in Operation Sindoor shows the growing strength of women in defence and their vital presence in both battlefield and briefing rooms.

Watch - Operation Sindoor planning and execution explained

To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending.
Deji Adeyanju, the legal representative of social media activist Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, has expressed frustration over the challenges in securing his clients release from the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In a statement released Tuesday by its Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the EFCC said that VeryDarkMan had been granted administrative bail but was still in custody as he had yet to meet the bail conditions.

Oyewale revealed that Otse was invited for questioning in connection with several petitions accusing him of involvement in serious financial crimes.

Advertisement

Oyewale stated that VeryDarkMan was taken into custody after repeatedly ignoring several invitations from the EFCC, which were sent to verified addresses and through established communication channels.

READ MORE: Your Mates Are Hustling  Speed Darlington Rejects Calls To Join Free VDM Protest

He said, The EFCC has a lawful right to hold Otse in custody like any other suspect being investigated by the commission. The appropriate remand order was obtained in this regard. He has been offered an administrative bail and will be released after fulfilling all the bail conditions.

Otse has been offered administrative bail and would be released after fulfilling all the bail conditions.

Responding to the EFCCs statement, Adeyanju stated via his social media platforms that his legal team has faced challenges in obtaining the documents outlining the bail conditions for VeryDarkMan.

He emphasised that multiple attempts to obtain the documents had been unsuccessful.

Bail granted VDM, social media bail, as we are yet to receive any bail document from the commission. We have made several repeated demands in this regard since yesterday, when we were informed about the decision to grant bail, Adeyanju said.

Commenting on the circumstances surrounding VDMs arrest, as discussed on various social media platforms, Oyewale clarified that the arrest was lawful and not a response to what the commission described as the suspects unguarded attacks on its operations online.

He said, The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in the exercise of its mandate of tackling economic and financial crimes, invited Martins Vincent Otse owing to a series of petitions bordering on sundry issues of alleged financial crimes raised against him. He refused to show up despite several invitations sent to him through his known addresses and medium of communication. The petitions pertain to grave allegations of financial malfeasance which cannot be ignored by the Commission.

It is needful to admit that the Commission is aware of several unguarded attacks of the suspect against its operations. While such conduct is condemnable, his arrest was not informed by such attacks. The relevant law enforcement agency will be allowed to look into them.

He called on the public to avoid speculation and allow the commission to carry out its constitutional duties without obstruction.

The Commission appreciates the interest of Nigerians in its operations. The passion, enthusiasm and torrential reactions to all of its activities are welcome. However, insinuations about its motive in carrying out its assignment should no longer continue. The EFCC should be allowed to do its job without fear or favour. As soon as investigations are concluded, charges will be filed.

SEE POST:
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has raised concerns over an alleged plot aimed at destabilizing the state and orchestrating his removal from office.

Speaking through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, during a press briefing in Makurdi on Wednesday, the governor accused unnamed individuals of engineering a campaign of misinformation, sponsored protests, and legal manipulation to discredit his administration.

Alia claimed that the protests currently taking place in the state are not genuine. These protests are not genuine expressions of public dissatisfaction, he said.

Advertisement

READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/05/apc-will-consider-kwankwasos-return-to-safeguard-his-political-career-ganduje.html

They are deliberately engineered by disgruntled individuals aiming to manipulate the public and provoke instability.

According to him, the goal of these actions is to create a state of unrest in Benue that would prompt President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency. He described the development as a desperate effort by enemies of progress who want to drag the state back into what he termed a discredited status quo.

The governor further alleged that legal tools were being misused by individuals he described as ex-convicts and impersonators posing as lawyers to file petitions filled with falsehoods.

He urged the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to intervene and check what he called unprofessional and damaging practices.

Alia, however, assured citizens that his administration remains stable and committed to governance, with legislative activities running smoothly.

He emphasised that Benue is secure and that progress is being made in addressing insecurity, especially threats posed by armed herders.

He expressed confidence in the support of the Benue people, saying such alleged sabotage would not derail his governments transformation agenda.

Benue is making significant progress. We are addressing our challenges head-on, and no amount of sabotage will derail the transformation agenda of this administration, he added.
A member of the House of Representatives, Ahmed Jaha, has raised alarm over the increasing sophistication of Boko Haram attacks in Borno State, revealing that the insurgents are now deploying armed drones against civilians and security forces.

Jaha, who represents Damboa/Gwoza/Chibok federal constituency, made this revelation during a motion debate on a recent fire incident at the Giwa Barracks armoury and the rising attacks on military facilities in Borno and Yobe States.

READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/05/nigeria-cant-become-one-party-state-gov-sule.html

Advertisement

He lamented that Boko Haram now possesses weapons more advanced than those of the Nigerian Army, a situation he described as deeply troubling.

I lost so many constituents because Boko Haram is using armed drones. Let it be on record. They are using armed drones which the Nigerian Army is not using. In other words, they are more sophisticated and advanced than the Nigerian Army, he said.

He added, Let us do something serious in order not to return to the days when 22 out of 27 local governments of Borno were occupied by Boko Haram.

Also speaking, Plateau lawmaker Yusuf Gagdi revealed that insurgents had carted away over 40 military tanks during coordinated attacks.

How can we guarantee the safety of the Nigerian people in the circumstances that the platforms that were meant to protect the people have been taken away by the enemies of the people? he asked.

Nigerians are being killed daily. From the north to south to east. The government must do the needful In as much we appreciate the security agencies for putting their lives on the front line to protect Nigerians, we must hold somebody accountable.

Zainab Gimba, who represents Bama/Ngala/Kala Balge, recounted fresh attacks in her area and urged the federal government not to treat the situation with levity.
At least two soldiers have been killed, following an attack by Boko Haram terrorists in Izge community, Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

It was gathered that the deadly invasion happened around 1 am on Wednesday when the gunmen infiltrated the village.

Speaking with newsmen, Emir of Gwoza, Mohammed Shehu Timta, said that the terrorist group started shooting sporadically before the personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces with the assistance of local hunters, vigilantes and members of the civilian Joint Task Force repelled the terrorists.

Advertisement

He added that several motorcycles, bicycles, an operational vehicle and a sophisticated rifle, all belonging to the criminal elements were recovered.

READ MORE: Storage Facility Destroyed As Explosion Hits Army Barracks In Borno

The Emir said: My people in Izge community came under Boko Haram invasion today at about 1am. Unfortunately, a Captain and a Soldier paid the supreme price. But in a brave and swift reaction from the military, men of the Civilian Joint Task Force, Local hunters, vigilantes and the resilient community the attack was repelled with killing of three terrorists.

As the community is still trailing the terrorists, over 10 bicycles, motorcycles, one sized military vehicle and one sophisticated rifle with ammunition were recovered from the terrorists.

Let me commend our military forces, other security agencies, men of CJTF, local hunters and vigilantes and our resilient people for their bravery, because as I speak, many people are still in the bush combing the whereabouts of the fleeing terrorists.

I want to equally call on the federal government to equip our security forces with technological warfare/weapons to defeat the remnants of Boko Haram members terrorising our communities almost on daily basis.
Human rights activist Deji Adeyanju has issued an update regarding the role of Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, in the ongoing detention of social media commentator VeryDarkMan (VDM), affirming that the respected lawyer has indeed intervened.

Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday, Adeyanju stated: I have now confirmed contrary to my previous post the other day that our revered leader and mentor, Femi Falana SAN has made several calls to EFCC challenging VDMs unlawful arrest and detention.

This clarification comes days after Adeyanju had criticised Falana for his silence on the matter, expressing disappointment that the prominent rights advocate had not spoken out against what he described as an illegal detention.

Advertisement

READ MORE: Adeyanju Expresses Frustration Over Difficulties In Securing VeryDarkMans Bail

VDM, known for his controversial takes on social issues, was recently arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), sparking outrage and calls for his release among his supporters.

Falanas reported intervention marks a significant development in the case, as pressure continues to mount on authorities to provide clarity on the circumstances of the arrest and ensure due process is followed.

SEE POST:
Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, alongside other lawmakers from Peoples Democratic Party, defected to All Progressives Congress.

The other members of the house who also defected include Sunday Fada Eigbiremonlen and Idaiye Yekini Oisayemoje.

While Agbebaku, representing Owan West constituency was elected a PDP dominated House, Yekini Idaiye Chief Whip of the House.

Advertisement

Others who defected include councillors from 17 local government councils, former deputy speaker, Roland Asoro; former House Majority Leader, Nosa Nosayaba, and former PDP State Secretary, Gabriel Oloruntoba, among others.

Receiving the defectors on behalf of APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, the partys National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Bashiru, assured them of equal opportunities within the party.

READ MORE: More Defections Hit PDP As Six Delta Reps Dump Party For APC

Senator Bashiru emphasized on the significance of their defection as a milestone for the partys consolidation in Edo.

He commended Okpebholo for infrastructural renewal, such as the ongoing road projects in Ekpoma.

Also speaking on Tuesday, Governor Okpebholo promised that the State is on a path to accelerated growth with the full backing of President Bola Tinubu.

He said: Edo is witnessing unprecedented development because we have a president who believes in our people.

From roads to flyovers, education, youth employment, and agriculture, we are investing massively to ensure food security and economic stability.
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has accused military and other security personnel of promoting insecurity in Maiduguri and its environs.

Governor Zulum insisted that former and current serving personnel of Nigerian security forces have played a significant role in influencing civilian into criminality, radicalism, prostitution and other vices, heightening terrorism threats in the state.

Zulum led this out on Tuesday at the inauguration of a reconstituted committee on revocation of illegal hotels, brothels, shanties, and criminal hideouts and curbing the menace of antisocial vices at the council chambers of the government house in Maiduguri.

Advertisement

READ MORE: Storage Facility Destroyed As Explosion Hits Army Barracks In Borno

He said: I am happy to know that army officers are here, especially the military, police, and others are here because most of these activities were committed by whom?

Some of them are dismissed army officers, dismissed security officers, current army officers, men and officers, including civilians.

So, there should be no sacred cow in this matter if we want the Maiduguri metropolis and indeed the state to get rid of insurgency, terrorism and other sorts of criminalities.
The Kano State Police Command has taken a 20-year-old into custody over allegations of armed robbery and culpable homicide.

SP Abdullahi Haruna, the commands public relations officer, confirmed the suspects arrest in a statement issued on Tuesday.

He stated that the suspect was arrested on Monday at Danbare Quarters within the Kano metropolis.

Advertisement

READ MORE: Police Foil Kidnap Attempt In Katsina, Recover AK-47, Motorcycle

On 5th May 2025, at about 06:40 am, the Kano State Police Command received information from a resident of Danbare Quarters, Kano, that two suspected armed robbers stormed the residence of one Shehu Muhammad, a 30-year-old male and attacked him with a long, sharp cutlass, inflicting multiple injuries on his body.

Upon receiving the report, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, immediately dispatched operational teams with detectives to the scene. The victim was rushed to Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital for medical attention, where he was pronounced dead by a medical doctor, Haruna said.

Haruna revealed that one of the suspects, 20-year-old Aliyu Umar, was apprehended at the scene, and the weapon used in the crime was recovered. He added that the suspect is currently assisting with the police investigation.

He assured that once the investigation is completed, the suspect will be formally charged in court for proper prosecution.

He reaffirmed the commands dedication to upholding law and order and ensuring justice is served, while urging residents to stay alert and promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.

The Command commends the community members for promptly reporting the incident, assisting in the arrest of the suspect and in supporting the police in its efforts to maintain peace and security in the state, the statement added.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has said that high failure rate in 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination is proof that anti-malpractice measures are working effectively.

Dr. Alausas statement is coming, amid nationwide concern following a just concluded Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board examination.

Recall that INFORMATION NIGERIA had reported that JAMBs released results showed that out of 1,955,069 candidates who sat for the 2025 UTME, only about 420,000 scored above 200, meaning more than 78 percent failed to meet the 200-mark threshold.

Advertisement

Reacting to the development on Tuesday, during an interview with Channels Television, Alausa said that the drop in performance reflects a significant decline in examination malpractice due to JAMBs tightened security protocols.

READ MORE: Over 1.5 Million Candidates Failed To Score 200 And Above In 2025 UTME  JAMB

He said: Thats a big concern, and its a reflection of exams being done the proper way, the minister said.

JAMB conducts its exam using a computer-based testing system. Theyve implemented strong security measures, and as a result, fraud or cheating has been completely eliminated. Unfortunately, we cannot say the same for WAEC and NECO.

We have to use technology to fight this fraud. There are so many miracle centres, and that is simply unacceptable. People cheat during WAEC and NECO exams and then face JAMB, where cheating is nearly impossible. Thats the disparity were seeing now. Its sad.

The worst part of cheating is that it disincentivises the hard-working ones. If Im preparing for WAEC or NECO and I know some classmates already have access to the questions, do you think Ill still study hard? No, Ill be tempted to join them. Thats how good students are corrupted, and thats exactly what we must stop.
Former vice-president Atiku Abubakar has challenged President Bola Tinubu to lead by example over the Nigeria First policy, introduced by his government.

INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that on Monday, Federal Executive Council gave green light to the policy, aimed at giving preference to locally produced goods and services in all government purchases.

Reacting to the development on Wednesday, in statement by Phrank Shaibu, his special assistant on public communication, Atiku stated that the practice of travelling abroad for medical treatment while advocating for self-reliance should come to an end.

Advertisement

He also challenged President Tinubu to trade his escalade for Innoson, Nord or any made-in-Nigeria car.

Atiku said: The Tinubu administrations latest Nigeria First mantra, paraded through the Federal Executive Council, is nothing but another tired PR stunt designed to deceive, not deliver.

READ MORE: Tinubus Foreign Policy Built On Respect For Sovereignty  Jimoh Ibrahim

Nigerians have grown weary of hollow speeches. If this government is truly serious about local content and economic patriotism, it must start at the very top.

We challenge President Tinubu to stop the noise and trade in his beloved Escalade for an Innoson, Nord or any made-in-Nigeria car. That single act will do more to promote the local industry than a thousand policy memos.

Lets see the ministers, those shameless Rolls-Royce connoisseurs, sweat it out in Nigerian-made vehicles, too. Or is Nigeria First only for the masses?

And speaking of double standards, its time Mr. President shelves his love affair with Paris and London.

If hes serious about patriotism, his next vacation should be at Obudu Cattle Ranch, Yankari Game Reserve, or Erin Ijesha Waterfalls. Nigeria is beautifulunless, of course, the President thinks otherwise.

This governments addiction to foreign luxuries while demanding sacrifice from suffering Nigerians is the height of insincerity. True leadership isnt photo-ops or soundbitesits setting the tone by example.
A Federal High Court in Abuja, on Tuesday, heard how leader of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, admitted operating an illegal radio station and inciting members of the public to attack police officers.

INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that the revelation was part of the testimony of a witness, an official of the Department of State Services, while testifying as the second prosecution witness in Kanus ongoing terrorism trial before Justice James Omotosho.

The DSS official said that the IPOBs leader is also the founder of the militant group, Eastern Security Network, operating within South Eastern part of the country.

Advertisement

The witness, identified with the acronym, BBB, testified behind a screen provided by the court. He said Kanu confirmed his activities while giving his statement.

BBB noted that the IPOBs leader also operated an illegal radio station, which broadcast on frequencies 102.1 FM and 88.0 FM, adding that the radio was illegal because it was not licensed by the National Broadcasting Commission.

The witness said that he was on July 2021, assigned the duty of taking Kanus statement following a letter from the Attorney General of the Federation, requesting that the Kanu be investigated for his alleged terrorism activities.

The witness said he carried out the assignment in the company of four other colleagues. He said he handed the IPOBs leader letter from the AGF, which the defendant read and also gave his lawyers to read, following which he requested that Kanu respond to the issues raised in the letter.

READ MORE: Court Bars Nnamdi Kanus Sister-In-Law For Livestreaming Proceedings

He said that after reading the letter, Kanu volunteered to make a statement in the presence of two of his lawyers, including Alloy Ejimakor.

The witness said that he played some of the broadcasts made by the defendant on his radio station (Radio Biafra), including where he called for the attack on police officers and made other inciting comments.

BBB said Kanu admitted that the voice in the broadcast, which he played to his hearing, was his (Kanus) own.

On what Kanu was agitating about, the witness said Kanu wanted the secession of the five South East states, parts of Kogi and Benue states, from the rest of Nigeria.

In his ruling, Justice Omotosho proceeded to order the prosecution to, in line with the provision of Section 36 of the Constitution, serve on the defendant all facilities, including documents that it intends to rely on to prosecute the case.

The matter was adjourned to May 7 for the continuation of the examination-in-chief of witness
Renowned Nollywood actor and comedian, Okey Bakassi, has been formally presented as the traditional ruler of the Umuihuocha Autonomous Community in Mbaise, Imo State.

In a video shared on his Instagram page on Tuesday, the entertainerwhose full name is Okechukwu Onyegbulewas seen receiving the royal title in a vibrant cultural ceremony celebrating Igbo tradition.

He is now known as His Royal Highness Eze Okechukwu Onyegbule, the Okwe II of Umuihuocha Obohia.

Advertisement

READ MORE: Ruth Kadiri Celebrates YouTube Recognition As One Of Nigerias Top Female Creators

Captioning the video, Bakassi wrote: Special presentation as king (Eze) of Umuihuocha community.

His coronation comes less than two weeks after he publicly announced that he had been appointed as the communitys new traditional ruler.
Operatives of Kano State Police Command have arrested one 18-year-old woman, identified as Saudat Jibril, for allegedly killing her husband, Salisu Idris.

The unfortunate incident took place in Farawa Quarters, on Monday involving the use of a sharp knife, with the victim sustaining fatal injuries in his throat.

In a statement on Tuesday, by the states Police Commands Spokesman, Abdullahi Kiyawa, disclosed that the suspect is now in custody and will face charges of culpable homicide.

Advertisement

It was gathered that the victim, was rushed to Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital following the attack but was declared dead by medical personnel.

The statement partly reads: The suspect, Saudat Jibril, an 18-year-old female of Farawa Quarters, allegedly cut off the throat of her husband, Salisu Idris, a 30-year-old male, with a sharp knife.

READ MORE: Troops Capture Suspected Kidnapper, Recover Weapons In Kano

Upon receiving the report, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, swiftly deployed a team of detectives to the scene.

The suspect has been apprehended and is currently in custody at the Commands Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Homicide Section.

The Command will not tolerate any form of violence or criminal behaviour in Kano State, CP Bakori warned.

We are committed to ensuring justice is served, and we urge members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with investigators.
The Cleveland-Cliffs steel works in Plymouth Township near Conshohocken, Pa., on Monday, Aug. 14, 2023. The plant, operated by Alan Wood Steel Co. from 1832-1977 and then by a succession of out-of-town corporations, processes heavy steel plates made at the company's larger mill in Coatesville (the former Lukens works). Cleveland-Cliffs said it would idle the Conshohocken plant, a rail plant in Steelton, and other facilities as of June 2025, citing a drop in orders. Read more

Cleveland-Cliffs, the second-largest U.S. steelmaker, will idle two plants in Pennsylvania and one in Illinois this summer due to weak demand and low prices.

The temporary, indefinite closures at the end of June include its Conshohocken plate-finishing works, which employs around 110, the company said Tuesday. The plant is located just outside the borough in Plymouth Township.

Advertisement

Other closures include its rail mill in Steelton, near Harrisburg, where 559 are to be laid off, and a hot-rolling mill in Riverdale, Ill., near its East Chicago, Ind., steel complex, where around 281 are slated for layoffs, the company has told state officials .

The indefinite idling of these facilities is not due to steel tariffs, Cleveland-Cliffs spokesperson Patricia Persico said in a statement.

2,000 steelworkers unemployed

The Conshohocken plant processes heavy steel plates produced for high-rise construction, shipbuilders, and other customers at Cleveland-Cliffs larger plant and lab in Coatesville, the former Lukens steel company, which will not be affected.

The plants that will idle were inherited in acquisitions of smaller steelmakers and are not part of Cliffs core business focus on making and selling flat-rolled steel from its larger mills, Persico said.

Lourenco Goncalves, Cleveland-Cliffs president, has said he supports President Donald Trumps higher tariffs on imported steel and predicts the import taxes will eventually generate more jobs in the U.S. steelmaking industry.

Goncalves visited the Coatesville plant last fall with United Steelworkers leaders and Biden administration officials, making a case for more protection from unfair foreign competition. The United States has found that China and other nations have dumped subsidized steel at prices below cost to win market share in the United States, damaging domestic producers.

Combined with layoffs announced in March at two Cleveland-Cliffs iron mines in Minnesota and an automotive-steel plant in Dearborn, Mich., more than 2,000 steelworkers will be left unemployed by the companys cuts.

Sales fell and the company lost money last year due to a drop in orders, including from the U.S. automotive industry, and the related drop in steel prices, the company says. It will review first-quarter 2025 earnings in a conference call May 8.

With sales of $19 billion last year, Cleveland-Cliffs is the second-largest U.S. steelmaker after Nucor, and the largest with a mostly union production workforce.

The company has sought to acquire smaller rival U.S. Steel, based in Pittsburgh, whose planned sale to Nippon Steel of Japan was blocked by the Biden administration.

Cleveland-Cliffs history

The Conshohocken plant was run by the locally based Alan Wood Steel company from 1832 to 1977. Besides the plant, the company owned iron mines in New Jersey, a railroad to King of Prussia, metal cabinet factories, and other facilities, employing thousands.

Since the 1977 sale, the plant has had a succession of out-of-town steel company owners. Cleveland-Cliffs acquired it and plants in Steelton, Coatesville, and Butler, Pa., among other U.S. cities, in its 2020 purchase of U.S. steel mills from global steel giant ArcelorMittal.

The Steelton mill, one of just three railroad-rail-making plants in the U.S., has long been a dominant employer in that industrial community on the Susquehanna.

Once a bustling factory town where workers made tires, machinery, processed foods and many other products, Conshohocken has evolved as a corporate center, home to drug distribution giant Cencora, business software maker Boomi, and the Quaker Houghton chemical company. Much of the former industrial area along the Schuylkill has been redeveloped with apartment buildings and offices.

Editors note: This story has been updated with new information on layoff totals.
Rite Aid on Monday filed for bankruptcy for the second time in two years, announcing an intention to close or sell all remaining stores. For customers, this means prescriptions will be sold and transferred elsewhere. Read more

As Rite Aid prepares to wind down its operations, customers of the regions approximately 100 stores may be left wondering what comes next  and how their prescriptions will be filled.

The specific answers to those questions are forthcoming, as the 60-year-old Philadelphia-based pharmacy chain begins its second bankruptcy process in two years.

Advertisement

For the time being, Rite Aid will keep filling prescriptions, according to a letter the company sent Monday to pharmacy benefit managers, the oft-criticized middlemen between pharmacies, drugmakers, and insurers.

When it comes time to move the scripts, the company has said customers will experience no lapse in service.

We are working to facilitate a smooth transfer of customer prescriptions to other pharmacies, Rite Aid executives said in a letter to customers, dated Monday.

Citing continued financial pressures and competition, Rite Aid executives said they intend to sell or close all remaining stores.

 READ MORE: Rite Aid files for bankruptcy again, plans to close or sell all stores

An auction of the companys pharmacy assets is set for no later than next Wednesday, May 14, according to documents filed Monday in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in New Jersey, and other assets will be auctioned no later than June 20.

It is happening very fast, lightning speed, said Sarah Foss, the global head of legal at Debtwire and an expert in bankruptcy and restructuring.

In this case, the speed is warranted because customers are going to go elsewhere if the sale process drags on too long. If customers leave en masse, she added, the prescription files, which are included in pharmacy assets, will be less valuable to potential buyers.

The price of a single pharmacys prescription file can be between $100,000 and more than $1 million, depending on the number of customers and types of prescriptions, said Michael Blackburn, executive vice president at RetailStat, which monitors credit risk in the retail industry.

What will happen to Rite Aid prescriptions

After next weeks auction, Rite Aid customers should know more about where their prescriptions will be transferred.

Rite Aid has been closing stores since before its first bankruptcy in October 2023.

Since 2022, the company has cut its Philadelphia-area footprint by about 40%. It has closed more than 70 locations during that time.

In those cases, Rite Aid has said it mailed letters to customers and posted signs in stores, alerting them of forthcoming closures and explaining where scripts would be sent. Such notices are required by many state pharmacy boards, including New Jerseys.

Customers who wish to have their prescriptions sent to a different pharmacy typically have to contact their Rite Aid directly.

While Rite Aid has promised customers a seamless process for prescription transfers, Rob Frankil, executive director of the Philadelphia Association of Retail Druggists, said there may be some steps required of patients and pharmacists.

A pharmacy needs to get a record transfer, Frankil said. You need to contact the [former] pharmacy if there are refills left or contact the doctor.

 READ MORE: What happens after a Philly neighborhoods last chain pharmacy shuts its doors

If the pharmacy is not open, its difficult to do that, he added. There is going to be a lot of time and effort to get [new patients] transferred if they went to a pharmacy that closed.

What comes next for Rite Aid

More will be known by late June, when both parts of the auction process are complete.

Dont expect front-end inventory, which has long been sparse at some local Rite Aids, to be replenished in the meantime, experts said.

Rite Aid CEO Matt Schroeder wrote in a letter to vendors on Monday: At this time, Rite Aid has generally stopped purchasing goods and services, except for those that it believes are essential to supporting this process.

Theres a chance that someone could buy Rite Aids intellectual property and run the company under the same name, Blackburn said. Or the intellectual property could be purchased and used to start up a similar business online, Foss said.

Thats a valuable name, so oftentimes we do see the [continued] online life of a store that is no longer brick and mortar, she said, noting that initially happened with Bed Bath & Beyond. And nowadays, more people are filling prescriptions online.

Another possibility, the experts said, is that a national or regional pharmacy or retailer buys some Rite Aid locations.

But even Rite Aid is preparing for some of its more than 1,200 stores to close. In court documents, its attorneys said the company has identified stores that are no longer necessary for the debtors business operations, will not be assumed and assigned as part of any sale process, and that are otherwise financially burdensome, including stores in Harrisburg and Kutztown.

Foss said its unlikely that a company would want to take over all the other Rite Aid stores.

Taking over a retail pharmacy chain in 2025, as a business model with a wide [footprint], just is not practical, Foss said.

Schroeder, Rite Aids CEO, said in a statement Monday that company executives were encouraged by meaningful interest from a number of potential national and regional strategic acquirors.

So, Foss said, it sounds like some locations could be sold: We just dont know how many.

Frankil, of the Philadelphia Association of Retail Druggists, said Rite Aids customers will likely go to a smattering of local chain and independent pharmacies. If theyre still going to a brick-and-mortar drugstore, he added, its unlikely that theyd switch to mail-order.

 READ MORE: Independent pharmacists fight burnout and industry pressures as Rite Aid and CVS close stores

The news about Rite Aid has further intensified Frankils concerns about pharmacy access. He said he blames pharmacy benefit managers, or PBMs, for the closure of many pharmacies, including a dozen independent pharmacies in the city so far this year.

If we dont get action soon, real robust legislative action to put a stop to low reimbursements to pharmacies by the PBMs, he said, we are right at the tipping point where there is going to be an access problem for patients getting their medicine.
Shaquille Love, 21, was killed on Christmas Eve 2020 in what Bucks County prosecutors have described as a case of mistaken identity. Read more

Shaquille Love had plans for his future, his family said Wednesday. He told them often about his desire to work hard, join the military, and start a family of his own.

Love didnt live to see those plans through. All thats left now, his mother said, are the memories of that ambition, frozen in time, like the relics left in his untouched bedroom.

Advertisement

Every time he left the house, I would say I love you. Be careful, Shauna Love wrote in a statement read by Bucks County prosecutors in court Wednesday. And when I said it that [last] time, I had no idea, no clue, that I would never be able to see him or touch him until the day we laid him to rest.

Love, 21, was killed on Christmas Eve 2020, a bystander in an intergenerational gang conflict that prosecutors say roiled Bristol Township.

Kelvontae Perry, one of the men involved in the plot to kill Love, was sentenced Wednesday to 21  to 44 years in state prison by Bucks County Court Judge Wallace Bateman, who chastised him for what he described as a troubling lack of remorse for his actions.

Perry, 30, was convicted of third-degree murder, conspiracy, and gun crimes in December, after a two-day bench trial before Bateman.

During the trial, prosecutors conceded that Perry did not fire the shot that killed Love. But they said he played a vital role in the murder, driving the vehicle the gunman rode in, using the car to stalk Loves vehicle as he drove Andrew Bryant, his childhood friend and the intended target, through Bristol Township.

Bryant was targeted, prosecutors said, in a feud between members of two rival sections of Bristol Township: Bloomsdale and Winder Village.

 READ MORE: From 2019: "Bucks jury finds two men guilty in chaotic prom-night killings"

Bryant had shared a video on social media of him desecrating a memorial to Winder Village residents killed in a 2018 shooting, and Perry and his accomplice, who lived in Bloomsdale, were seeking revenge.

On the night of the murder, Perry parked his car next to Loves car and lined up the shot that killed him, Deputy District Attorney Kristen McElroy said Wednesday.

If not for that, Shaquille Love would still be here, she said. Shaquille was a good man, and Kelvontae Perry took something from his family that he can never give back.

Love was shot once in the head as he sat behind the wheel of his Chrysler 200 on Edgely Road, according to the grand jury presentment in the case against Perry. After Perrys Lexus had tailed Loves car for several minutes, Love pulled over to allow the car to pass.

As the Lexus slowly rolled by, a gunman in the passenger seat fired once, the presentment said, striking Love, who was pronounced dead at the scene.

Perrys attorney, Keith Williams, said the gunman was Quashaad James, and James, he said, is the one responsible for Loves death.

Perry didnt tell police James was the shooter, Williams said, because James, 29, pressured Perry to lie, asking him to implicate Perrys younger brother instead. Perry refused to snitch on James because James had threatened his family, Williams said.

Hes being punished for a shooting that someone else committed, Williams said. If he gave up the shooter, he wouldve lost his family, his brother, and thats a tough decision to make.

James has not been charged with Loves murder, but he does face a perjury charge for lying to the grand jury investigating the case.

He is in state prison, serving a 20 to 40 year sentence for attempted murder and aggravated assault for shooting his ex-girlfriend and her new boyfriend in Philadelphia just 10 days before Love was killed.

Perry, in a statement read to Loves family, apologized for the shooting, saying it never should have happened. He blamed his longtime drug abuse for getting him wrapped up in the street life.

I made a mistake, but I know I can be a better man for my family and my community, Perry said.

McElroy, the prosecutor, questioned Perrys remorse, saying he has treated Loves death with a cavalier attitude.

She said Perry had bragged about shooting an opp on social media after Loves murder, and gleefully FaceTimed his relatives, encouraging them to lie if questioned by investigators.

Loves father, Sean, told prosecutors he had moved his family from Philadelphia decades ago, hoping to give his children a better, safer life in the suburbs. The senselessness of his sons death shook him to his core, he said.

I will never get to tell my son how much I love him again, he said Wednesday. I can only whisper it into the wind in hopes of it reaching him up there in Gods house.
Mayor Cherelle L. Parkers administration and city court officials said Wednesday they were committed to ensuring the success of Neighborhood Wellness Court, the fast-track program for people in addiction who are arrested in Kensington that was put on hold last month amid tension between the agencies.

Wellness court resumed operations Wednesday after the citys Office of Public Safety, which oversees the program, made a series of adjustments in how people are brought before the court. Police had not made any new arrests over the last three weeks after court leadership told the city to modify and streamline the program to ensure fairness, among other concerns, according to sources with knowledge of the conversations.

Advertisement

In a joint statement Wednesday, the city and the courts said they were committed to working together to ensure the success of the Neighborhood Wellness Court. The pilot program, which runs every Wednesday, aims to reduce the amount of public drug use in Kensington by providing immediate treatment and other medical and social services as needed to users without overly criminalizing their behavior, they said.

They said they were able to improve protocols to allow the court to resume.

The statement came after a somewhat contentious few weeks amid differences between city leaders and some members of the court. Some judges and other officials had grown frustrated over how Parkers team was managing and communicating about the program.

Supervising Municipal Court Judge Karen Simmons nearly shut wellness court down, sources said. The tension had been simmering after officials with the district attorneys office, Defender Association of Philadelphia, and those in charge of the court felt theyd been excluded from much of the initial plans for the program, the sources said.

 READ MORE: Judge almost shuts down the citys Kensington wellness court over mounting frustration with Parker administration, sources say

Simmons, they said, was concerned that people in certain neighborhoods were being treated differently than others, and that there wasnt consistency on how people were deemed eligible for the court. She gave the city time to make adjustments, and Parkers team worked through that over the last three weeks.

On Wednesday, police took eight people into custody in Kensington, most who appeared to be sleeping on sidewalks or using drugs. They were first brought to a facility on Lehigh Avenue to be evaluated by a nurse and an addiction specialist. Officials also attempted to address any outstanding arrest warrants, and connect them with a court-appointed attorney hired by the city to discuss their rights.

One man with an open arrest warrant for a robbery was taken to jail. The others were taken to wellness court, located inside the 24th Police District Headquarters.

Four people ultimately opted to go through the program and enter treatment.

A 42-year-old mother of three said she was eager to get better, and agreed to begin outpatient treatment.

This isnt a bad day, this is a good day.  The resources were giving are special, Municipal Court Judge Henry Lewandowski III, who presides over the court, told her.

Another 34-year-old man in addiction, who said he has struggled with drug use for about 10 years, also agreed to go into treatment.

Were giving you a shot to finally beat this thing, Lewandowski told him. Were not hanging punishment over your head, were offering treatment. But you gotta buy in.

Another man who had been arrested in early April was marked as having successfully completed the terms of the program, and the case was resolved.

The number of people who have returned to court and completed the program is relatively small. Many have dropped out of treatment within days, and dont return to court, according to data collected by The Inquirer. Two people have completed treatment and have moved into Riverview Wellness Village, the transitional housing built by Parkers administration, officials said.

Still, city officials have said they are optimistic, and that the program needs more time to grow and develop before judging its success.
Philadelphia police at the scene where a police officer was shot, near Overbrook High School on Wednesday. Read more

A Philadelphia police officer was critically wounded Wednesday afternoon after he was shot in the stomach while attempting to break up a fight outside Overbrook High School, police said.

Shortly after school dismissed around 2:30 p.m., Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel said, multiple fights erupted and spilled onto the sidewalk across the street, near 59th and West Oxford Streets. Officers stationed outside the school called for backup as the conflict grew, he said.

Advertisement

As students clashed, he said, a 30-year-old man arrived, armed with a Ruger-57 pistol. Officers were attempting to break up one of the fights, he said, when a single shot  a rifle round  was fired from the gun. The bullet ricocheted off the ground and up into the officers abdomen, wedging beneath his bulletproof vest and striking him in the stomach, the commissioner said.

The officer, a 26-year-old who had been on the force for only a year, did not immediately realize he had been shot, Bethel said. Within minutes, fellow officers rushed him to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, where he was conscious but remained in critical condition, the commissioner said.

Bethel said the 30-year-old, who they believe fired the gun, was in custody, and a weapon was recovered. Police did not release the mans name.

For an adult to come with a weapon that could kill  easily kill  my officers, I mean, it makes absolutely no sense, Bethel said with frustration.

Youre a damn adult. Youre supposed to know better. Youre supposed to come in and de-escalate, not escalate, he said. Youre a coward.

In a letter to Overbrook High families, the School District of Philadelphia said that the fight involved multiple students and members of the community, and that the officer was wounded after a community member fired a gun. No students were injured, the district said.

Video captured by a bystander at the scene showed over a dozen young people and police crowded in the street in front of a corner deli, across from the school. The video appeared to show several young men fighting, with officers attempting to pull them apart, when suddenly there was a loud pop. Some people started to scream and run.

The wounded officer was not visible in the footage.

Bethel, alongside Mayor Cherelle L. Parker and other city leaders, had rushed to the scene from a luncheon with the families of police officers and firefighters who died in the line of duty over time. Officials had spent the morning with those first responders loved ones, they said, honoring their lives and sacrifice, when they got the call that another officer had been shot.

It can be too easy to take for granted the sacrifice the men and women who put their lives on the line on a daily basis for us, Parker said Wednesday. Today and tonight and tomorrow, Philadelphia, I am asking you to say a prayer for this officer and his family, as well as everyone who puts on a uniform to protect and serve.

Roosevelt Poplar, president of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #5, said he and the members of his board were sending the officer heartfelt wishes for a swift and full recovery.

Bethel, in an emotional speech outside the hospital as the officer was rushed into surgery, spoke further of that dedication and sacrifice, and of the tenacity, the restraint, the understanding in the moment that he said officers displayed at the scene of Wednesdays shooting. Even amid a brawl, he said, they were able to protect kids, identify the shooter and take him into custody, and rush their colleague to the hospital.

That is the work that people just brush across.  This is the work they do, he said. Honor them. Honor them.
Wendy Raymond, president of Haverford College, testifies before the House Committee on Education and the Workforce hearing on antisemitism on American college campuses in Washington D.C. Read more

Haverford College president Wendy Raymond seemed to get the worst of the grilling during a Wednesday congressional hearing on the handling of antisemitism on campus, largely because she was reluctant to answer questions about discipline, especially in specific cases.

The two other college presidents testifying before the Republican-led Committee on Education and the Workforce, from DePaul University and California Polytechnic State University, provided statistics on groups and students that were suspended or otherwise disciplined for antisemitic conduct since Oct. 7, 2023, the day Hamas attacked Israel.

Advertisement

Raymond did not. After repeated questioning, she acknowledged there were cases in which discipline occurred.

 READ MORE: Haverford president apologizes to members of the Jewish community as she faces congressional hearing on antisemitism

I thank the two campuses here today, DePaul and [California Polytechnic] for being able to demonstrate at least in words, and of course were looking for the policy and outcomes, but you were able to tell us of mistakes and now what youre doing to remedy that, Republican committee chair Rep. Tim Walberg said in his closing statement at the more than three-hour hearing held in Washington D.C.

But some of the questions Raymond faced focused on discipline in hypothetical cases that she said had not occurred on Haverfords campus  such as someone calling for the genocide of Jewish people  and in other cases that Raymond said were not accurate accounts.

At least two lawmakers, Rep. Robert Onder (R., Mo.), and Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R., Pa.), threatened Haverfords federal funding. The U.S. Department of Education has halted more than $2 billion in funding to Harvard after it rejected demands from President Donald Trumps administration and $175 million to the University of Pennsylvania for allowing a transgender swimmer to compete.

 READ MORE: Penn president Liz Magill has resigned following backlash over her testimony about antisemitism

I suppose its your First Amendment right to be evasive, but its also our right to decide that such institutions are not deserving of taxpayer money, Onder said.

As a small liberal arts college, Haverford isnt as dependent on federal funding as a large research university like Penn. A college spokesperson didnt respond to a question on how much funding Haverford receives.

The exchange between Raymond and Onder happened as he alleged that an administrator on campus had said Blacks and gays have in the past not felt safe on campus. It is now the turn of Jewish students to experience that feeling.

That is not a statement that she made, Raymond asserted, adding that the administrator is as committed to combating antisemitism as she is.

Over the hours, Raymond, a molecular biologist who has led the college for nearly six years, faced questions about incidents ranging from missing fliers for Jewish community activities to a boycott of doughnuts from a Jewish bakery that were labeled blood doughnuts and were to be served at commencement. Raymond said the doughnuts were purchased and served.

We appreciate the thoughtful questions and engagement from committee members and remain committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all, Haverford said in a statement after the hearing. ... we look forward to continuing our work in partnership with Congress and our campus community to combat hatred in all its forms.

Democratic pushback to hearing

Democratic lawmakers argued the hearing wasnt about antisemitism, which Republicans have turned a blind eye to in other instances, but rather furthering a political agenda and an attack on universities.

U.S. Rep. Summer Lee (D., Pa.) noted the Trump administrations dismantling of the Department of Educations Office for Civil Rights, which was tasked with investigating antisemitism.

We shouldnt fall for it, she said.

 READ MORE: Federal education department office in Philadelphia is among seven to be shut nationally

If lawmakers were actually concerned about safety, Lee said, in addition to acknowledging the real rise in antisemitism, wed also be talking about the rise in Islamophobia and the persistent anti-Blackness, the degradation of the rights of trans students.

Republican lawmakers, however, argued Jewish students have been harmed by antisemitism  including at DePaul, where there was a physical attack against two students supporting Israel  and colleges for too long have not taken action. Walberg said the civil rights office had not been doing its job and promised to create an office that would serve all students and faculty.

Todays hearing echoes what Jewish students and faculty have been telling us for months: too many college campuses are failing to protect their Jewish communities from hate, discrimination, and harassment, Andrew Goretsky, Philadelphia regional director of the Anti-Defamation League said after the hearing. We have been ready to work with Haverford for 18 months and we continue to be ready  But that work must begin with an honest self-examination  and a willingness to act.

 READ MORE: With grace and invitation, Haverfords new president has much to teach

But the Philadelphia chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations condemned the hearing for raising false antisemitism allegations against Haverford faculty and students.

Conflating criticism of a foreign government with hatred of a people or religion is not only intellectually dishonest  it is dangerous, the group said. It silences legitimate political discourse, chills academic freedom, and contributes to an atmosphere of fear and repression on college campuses."

Raymond apologizes to Jewish community members

Raymond in her opening remarks apologized to Jewish community members who felt as if the college was not there for you and took responsibility for some mistakes.

This is an example of a difficult period of learning where I did not get it right, Raymond said when asked about an email sent to the Haverford community after Hamas attack.

The email highlighted tragedies across the globe, that took place since the semester began and mentioned earthquakes in Morocco and Afghanistan, wildfires in the U.S. and Canada, and a two-year long war in Ukraine, said U.S. Rep. Mark Harris, (R., N.C.) He said it only made a passing reference to what was described as the outbreak of war in Israel and Gaza that had taken place just 48 hours before.

We all know in this room Oct. 7 was not a mutual outbreak of war between two countries, Harris said. In fact it was a terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel.

Raymond noted the college had made a plethora of changes to address concerns about antisemitism, including changes in the antibias policy and rules around protesting, steps to revise the honor code, and increases in campus safety at events.

But that didnt lessen the sharpness of the questioning from lawmakers, including Rep. Elise Stefanik (R., N.Y.), who took the spotlight in 2023 after she asked former Penn President Liz Magill whether calling for the genocide of Jewish people would violate the campus code of conduct. Magill answered that it was a context dependent decision and resigned days later amid bipartisan backlash. (Harvards president Claudine Gay also resigned in the aftermath of the hearing, though she also faced allegations of plagiarism.)

You were the one university president who failed to lay out if any disciplinary action has been taken, if any suspensions or expulsions, Stefanik said to Raymond, referencing her testimony earlier in the hearing. So I am asking you, was there any disciplinary action taken?

Disciplinary action can include expulsion, Raymond began.

Stefanik cut her off.

Im not asking what it can include, Stefanik said. Im asking was it taken?

Raymond repeatedly said she would not discuss individual cases at the hearing, though she ultimately acknowledged there were some disciplinary actions taken regarding antisemitism.

At one point, Stefanik seemed to warn Raymond her answer could affect her employment.

These university presidents who are former presidents failed to answer these direct questions, she said, seeming to refer to Magill and Gay.

Raymond describes events inconsistent with our values

During the hearing, Raymond repeatedly was asked a similar question to the one Stefanik asked at the previous hearing about the genocide of Jewish people. Each time, Raymond gave a very different answer than the presidents did in 2023.

Of course not, Raymond said when asked if making a call for genocide would be protected speech on the campus. We would use all of our disciplinary actions to follow through on any such call.

She acknowledged that some events that occurred on campus have been inconsistent with our values.

When an ADL official presented a talk on Antisemitism 101 during the fall semester, several inside stood and talked over him in the presence of college administrators and protesters outside banged on the windows and on cowbells and pots.

The ADL said the college did not condemn this incident as part of a 2025 report card in which the organization gave Haverford a failing grade.

Raymond said in written testimony she was dismayed and disappointed at the protest and that administrators took quick action to remove protesters from the room.

But she acknowledged at Wednesdays hearing that those outside created an atmosphere of intimidation. It would have taken too much time to get personnel to remove them, she said.

Shouting over speakers is counter to our values, and I am grateful that our guests from the ADL had the courage to ultimately finish their presentation, she said. In the aftermath, we conducted a full investigation consistent with our student conduct procedures.
The cheeseburger dessert at Roxanne, on South Second Street  a rare burger on a crispy, sesame-seeded house-baked bun, layered with a thick slice of Red Rock blue cheese and raw onions in creamy mayo and served alongside a chocolate sundae. Read more

Here we were, together again: me, a pile of raw beef, and the white lava flow of Alexandra Holts bespoke Whiz. The first time I encountered it, two years ago, I shuddered.

I had quite the opposite reaction to this latest version of Holts raw cheesesteak. I loved the grainy spice of the fresh-baked rye toast. An intriguing whisper of cold-smoked Gouda wafted though the frothy new version of her velvety white American cheese sauce. And it beckoned my fork back for another bite of this irresistible, contrarian riff on Phillys signature sandwich made with beef tartare and a peppery shallot dressing.

Its possible Ive evolved on this subject, having slogged through several bad (cooked) cheesesteaks during a recent hunt to find gems for a fresh list of Inquirer-recommended cheesesteaks. But the primary reason is that the ever-experimental Holt has simply continued to grow, tweaking her edgy, art-forward concept with high-quality ingredients (love that Happy Valley teres major) and fine-tuning the details until it landed square at the crossroads of weird and wonderfully delicious.

Advertisement

The evolution of the raw cheesesteak is a parallel for the progression of Roxanne in general. The original 25-seat BYOB often felt more like a performance art supper club designed for shock value than a restaurant. Its darkly themed plates featured cakes molded into bloody brains, dagger-stabbed pastries, and aioli scribbled onto lunch meat into angst-ridden emojis, reflecting the mindset of a chef bouncing back from a bad fit at her previous job.

I opened the first place out of sadness, Holt said, and needed something extreme at the time to see if it could help me.

At the end of last year, Holt left her space behind in the Italian Market for a more expansive space in Queen Village  a lilac-colored room with well-spaced tables and cozy tatami nooks refurbished from the former sushi-house occupant. Theres a new wine list showcasing local vintner Vox Vineti (with cocktails to come) and a staff of four employees to supplement what was previously a one-woman show.

Holt has a singular talent for expressing herself vividly through food, and theres been a noticeable lifting of the spirit in her work at Roxanne 2.0, a cheeky playfulness guided by deft technique, carefully curated ingredients, and a distinctively artful perspective that imbues her cooking with a palpable joy. Pepperoni polka dots add a whimsical pop of pizza spice to a pristine white cod glazed in lemon poppy butter, posed over a raft of white asparagus in a green pool of dill oil, while a tangy yuzu broth poured tableside over crispy-skinned arctic char literally shimmers with gold dust.

In between closing the first Roxanne and opening the new one, I fell in love, Holt said, with a person, and with this city. And its made a huge impact on the restaurant I didnt know I needed or wanted.

As the daughter of a single mom in the Air Force  the restaurants namesake, Roxanne Holt  who grew up in 15 states and six countries, then worked her way as a Culinary Institute of America-trained pastry chef from Chicago to Baltimore to a Michelin-starred perch in Germany, this long pause to her wanderlust has given Holt the opportunity to shape Roxanne into the fascinating destination it can be.

Holts budding relationship with her boyfriend, Jeremy Emami, a former steak house server, has both inspired several dishes and lent a sense of stability to the front-of-house operation, which he helps run alongside his best friend, Cuzzy Angiolillo (of the once-and-future Cuzzys Ice Cream). A growing attachment to Philadelphias true-self attitude has also made the peripatetic Holt realize, I finally have a home.

Holt still cherishes solitude in the kitchen as a solo chef, which reinforces her idiosyncratic approach to food. She also remains so reclusively shy that she refuses to pose for photos. But shes comfortable nonetheless working in a semi-open kitchen for guests to see. And in the serenity of this new space, decorated with her own art  potato sculptures fixed to the ceiling near the bathroom, a skateboard branded with McDonalds golden arches, pictures of her cat, Beer  shes also given herself the time to polish her craft as a cook.

Holt said she has been resisting the compulsion to change her menu daily (It was like I wanted to fail). Shes turned instead toward refining and focusing her cooking  improving the depth of her sauces, refining the many breads she bakes, mastering the efficiency of juggling an intricate 15-item a la carte menu and a tasting menu simultaneously on her own  and her ideas, which are still unconventional by any measure. A cheeseburger with blue cheese and raw onions for dessert (plus a side of chocolate sundae)? She gets me!

Not everything works for everyone: The starch-on-starch pile of the potato on potato duo  pommes purees and a gratin layered beneath cheese sauce  was too heavy for me. And even a big scoop of caviar, it turns out, can be obliterated by the overwhelmingly tart richness of key lime pie. Holts version was so good in its own right that it might have been more ironically cool to have served it without the trendy caviar bump.

When Holts creations work  and thats more often now than before  they are stunningly original. They can be both visually arresting and challenging to the taste buds, as unexpected flavor combinations come braced with a persistent bolt of acidic brightness  such as the carpaccio-like mosaic of tart kiwi rounds layered green-on-green over a pistachio-enriched Caesar dressing. If youve experienced ramp fatigue this spring, Holts take on the garlicky wild greens is a revelation  quickly sauteed and laced beneath a translucent mound of diced sweet Dino melon. Mixed together with a housemade Boursin of sheeps milk farmers cheese piped over the top, its an ethereal take on sour cream and onions.

The whey by-product of the cheesemaking process is essential to another of Holts best new creations: hot rigatoni. Toothy pasta tubes are tossed in a meaty ragu of lemongrass-curried beef and leeks glazed in a boldly spiced gravy of whey enriched with koji and chili crisp heat. Fragrant Thai basil leaves scattered over the top activate the dish for all the senses.

Holts penchant for quirky, palate-bending pairings has undeniable appeal, even with dishes that are only three-quarters perfected. Her octopus, for example, was exceptional, a plump arm as straight as a riding crop, yet tender and delicately crisp. But it deserved something more engaging than a dollop of onion dip on the side.

Holts work to improve her skill in cooking proteins  not a given for a career pastry chef (and a smart reply to any savory chef who is clueless beyond a dish of pudding)  has also paid dividends. The dry-aged pork chop with green peppercorns and braised endive mustard was succulent. A textbook link of boudin blanc showed her skill with delicate charcuterie: The sausage is stuffed with a delicate white emulsion of chicken, cognac, and pork, and served beautifully browned alongside the snap of spring peas and sweet muscat grapes.

My only major disappointment here was a relatively small duck breast, which was dry and salty. It was also completely overshadowed by the spectacular sauce of duck jus bordelaise with steamed Oishii strawberries, whose bright acidity cut through the richness of the sauce and a wedge of Stilton perched on the side. At $55  the most expensive entree, and $74 when supersized for two  the duck itself should not be a juiceless afterthought.

Holt made up for it with a rare burger that was absolutely gushing with beefy juice on a crispy, sesame-seeded house-baked bun, layered with a thick slice of Red Rock blue cheese and raw onions in creamy mayo. Some might find it odd that its listed as a dessert, but its an homage to her post-shift burger indulgences with Emami at Fountain Porter. Its also served alongside a chocolate sundae that completes her classic combo order at Wendys, drawing it ever closer to the traditional dessert zone. That the sundae is drizzled with an intense fudge sauce made with 66% dark chocolate that Holt makes from cacao pods she grinds herself is all the more reason to dive in.

It also reinforces Holts course-warping mindset that dessert simply implies an ending, not necessarily something sweet. Her ricotta-filled sfogliatelle is all the more memorable for the tangy chanterelles vinegar it came bobbing in.

And Holts feisty old instincts are also still fully at play in her other finales, which you can order a la carte or in a $95 six-course tasting that features plenty of political commentary. One dish, And suddenly, I hate the color orange, is a presidential reference. Another dessert, called American Bounty, is a chocolate truffle molded into the shape of a Glock.

The desserts I enjoyed most were the ones inspired by nostalgia  like her lush chocolate layer cake, or the panna cotta with fresh tater tots for dipping alongside whole Mandarins that, when peeled tableside, evoke more of her late-night snacks with Emami.

Holts most daring new dessert, though, is the floating island, a vanilla-rich poached meringue shaped like a breast topped with a marzipan nipple that hovers over a saucy moat of strawberries. On most days, this delicious classic is meant to symbolize Holts long relationship with loneliness. But on the night of our visit, that nipple was dripping with a trickle of strawberry sauce like blood in honor of the birth of [a chef friends] baby. Ouch! Congrats?

Its just how motherhood seems to me  it takes a lot out of your body, said Holt, who doesnt have any children, but Id like to.

Pair that sentiment with a check served inside the pages of the childrens classic Goodnight Moon, and Holt, in this new act and her bright new outlook, has conjured what must be the most bloody optimistic dessert ever made.

So much of [the first Roxanne] was about the past and things that happened to me, Holt said. But I dont think about the past as much here anymore. I cook the things I want to see in the future.

Roxanne

607 S. Second St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19147; roxannephilly.com

Dinner, Monday, 6-10 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday, 5:30-10 p.m.

Plates, $14-$78 (duck for two); six-course dessert tasting menu, $95.

Wheelchair accessible.

While baking is done on-site, much of the menu (including all sauces) is gluten-free.
One of my most-asked reader queries is: How do I get a membership at Palizzi Social Club? Today, I share a solid answer. (Alas, I dont know of a sure-fire way to score a res at Royal Sushis omakase counter.)

Also in this edition:

Advertisement

Talk and eat: The book-club gatherings at this bookstore turn into a potluck. Food truck woes: Could a curfew kill these businesses? Restaurant boom: May is bringing many high-profile openings. Read on for your first looks at two high-profile Mexican restaurants and a triplet of scoop shops.

 Mike Klein

If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here.

Palizzi Social Club, the South Philly destination that serves potent gimlets and tender braciola in speakeasy-style surroundings, will open its membership rolls for the first time in two years, and 100 slots are up for grabs starting opening Thursday. Read on to find out how you can join.

This shrimp saganaki appetizer, all hot and bubbly from the oven at Apricot Stone, is a showstopper, says critic Craig LaBan. The creator, Konstantinos Pitsillides (ex-Kanella Grill and Kanella South) who is consulting at the Armenian BYOB in Northern Liberties, is one of Craigs favorite chefs right now.

John Donohue, a former New Yorker editor and cartoonist, set out to sketch every restaurant in New York. Bedatri Choudhury writes that hes turned his pen to Philadelphia restaurants, and you can see his work in an exhibition.

Many food trucks in North Philadelphia operate overnight, serving affordable Dominican and Mexican food to people who work the graveyard shift. But the owners fear that a newly enforced 11 p.m. curfew may put them out of business.

The monthly book club meetings at Binding Agents, Phillys cookbook store, are more than food for thought, writes Esra Erol. Theyre food-filled soirees where home cooks are invited to bring a dish from the featured book.

Scoops

Here are your first looks inside two high-profile Mexican restaurants opening in the next week and a half.

La Jefa, a Guadalajara-inspired all-day cafe/restaurant/bar from the Suro family open morning through late night, located behind the recently revived Tequilas, opens Friday at 1605 Latimer St., near Rittenhouse Square. (Its that alley street behind Tequilas, between Locust and Spruce.) Above is co-owner Dan Suro setting a table.

Ama (101 W. Oxford St., at the corner of Front Street), opening next Wednesday on the Fishtown-Kensington line, is a luxe bar-restaurant marking the ownership debut of chef Frankie Ramirez (ex-Enoteca Tredici, Parc, LMNO), with his wife, Veronica, and partners Roberto Medina and Crisalida Mata (La Catrina in Media, Spasso Italian Grill in Media, Agave Mexican Cuisine in Chadds Ford). Ramirez has an 8-foot charcoal- and wood-fired grill; the menu is tight (16 items) and seasonal.

 Three scoop shops are opening soon. Friday is Weckerlys premiere at 1600 Spruce St. in Rittenhouse from 6-9 p.m. with free scoops and limited-edition pint koozies for the first 50 in line, comp Mothers Day flowers (while supplies last), and the debut of a sandwich flavor, Saffron Rosewater Pistachio. The debut of Jenis Splendid Ice Creams Bryn Mawr location (840 W. Lancaster Ave.) is May 14 with free scoops from 6-10 p.m. and swag for the first 50 people in line. Malai Philly, an offshoot of the South Asian-inspired ice cream shop from Brooklyn, will start dipping discounted $3 scoops at noon May 17 at 260 S. 18th St., south of Rittenhouse Square. The first 100 customers will receive a Malai tote bag. Phillys signature flavor is Cinnamon Honeybun, inspired by Tastykakes Honey Buns.

Restaurant report

Griddle & Rice. Last week, Craig reviewed the Makassar-style dishes at Indo Spice in South Philadelphia. Now, here come Yeni Lie and Mohammad Holil with this casual Indonesian counter-service spot in a former pizzeria at 22nd and Jackson Streets in West Passyunk.

The couple have cooked professionally for years  even owning a Chinese restaurant in Bucks County. But it was the food inspired by their native Madura, an island off of East Java, that they loved creating for community gatherings.

Backed by family members, including their daughter Amalia Utama, they are offering American-style breakfast sandwiches and baked goods alongside a short list of Indonesian specialties and a long line of drinks including coffees (the unfiltered kopi tubruk drip), teas, matcha, smoothies, and Southeast Asian-style creations like Milo dinosaur and teh tarik.

Theres snug seating in a black-and-white-tiled area, as well as counter seating along a rail in the window. Chicken congee ($13, shown at top) is a meal-and-a-half worth of creamy rice porridge topped with shredded chicken, fried shallots, fried peanuts, scallions, crackers, curry chicken broth, and scattered cakwe (the deep-fried dough).

Theres meatball soup ($14), bakmi ayam (yellow noodles topped with diced chicken, $14), nasi uduk ($14, the coconut rice-fried chicken platter), and sate skewers of chicken ($15) and lamb ($16, shown above).

Griddle & Rice, 2151 S. 22nd St. Hours: 7 a.m.-7 p.m. daily.

Briefly noted

Chef Yun Fuentes  a partner in Bolo, the Puerto Rican restaurant near Rittenhouse Square, an Inquirer 76 establishment and a semifinalist last year and this year for James Beard Awards  is among the Beard Foundations lineup of TasteTwenty chefs, its annual selection of ones to watch in the industry. Fuentes, a New Yorker who previously ran Douglas Rodriguezs kitchen at Alma de Cuba and came to Philadelphia nearly two decades ago to work for Jose Garces at Amada and Village Whiskey, will represent Philadelphia in the national Taste America series, which launches in Los Angeles on July 29. Fuentes Philadelphia event will be a tasting; the date is TBD. For his review, Craig found infectious energy at Bolo, alongside tasty cocktails and stylish digs.

The first 100 customers at the new Pollys Ice Cream & Espresso (715 Fetters Mill Square, Huntingdon Valley) will get a free Famous 4th Street Cookie ice cream sandwich on May 8 (starting at 1 p.m.) as owner Julia Bailey, 23, marks World Ovarian Cancer Awareness Day. Bailey named the shop after her grandmother, who died of ovarian cancer at age 58 in 1992. Donations and a portion of sales will be given to the Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation, a local nonprofit, and to Huntingdon Valley Fire Co.

Taste of Mt. Airy, thrown by the Mt. Airy Community Development Corp., will celebrate the groups 45th anniversary from 7-10 p.m. May 17 by assembling local restaurants and musicians Reverend Chris & the Lower 19119 playing New Orleans jazz and swing inside the carriage house at Cliveden Trust. Tickets ($100 and $125pp) are here.

Ralphs (760 S. Ninth St.) will mark its 125th anniversary on June 17 by opening all three floors for appetizer samplings, Live Sinatra-era music, tasting portions of Ralphs entrees with wine pairings, desserts, and swag. Tickets ($125pp) are here.

Kampar, doing the pop-up circuit during fire repairs, will take over Oyster House (1516 Sansom St.) from 5-10 p.m. Monday. The oyster bar will become a Malaysian-style street stall, or mamak stall, with assorted lauk (rendang, curries, and other dishes enjoyed with rice, choice of two) and the famous nasi lemak. Cocktails will be open to walk-ins and pay-as-you-go, but access to the stall ($30) will be available only through preorder.

Wilts Berries, a chocolate-covered berry specialist modeled after Turnips at Borough Market in London, will set up at Reading Terminal Market at the end of May, filling the space vacated in March by the outgoing Kismet Bialys. The founders also own the citys Brooklyn Dumpling Shop locations.

Burtons Grill & Bar, a favorite among the gluten-aware crowd, is now about six weeks out in the former Chilis at 312 W. Lancaster Ave. in Wayne, the first location in Pennsylvania. Its a 150-seater with 24 at the bar and 24 outside.

Twisties, the landmark tavern on the bay in Strathmere, is for sale. Amy Rosenberg writes that the owners want its Shore cult legacy to continue.

Pop quiz

Jeppsons Malort has just arrived in Pennsylvanias Fine Wine & Good Spirits stores. Where did the bitter liqueur make its reputation?

A) Chicagos dive bars

B) The Long Bar & Terrace at Raffles Boston

C) Killer Shrimp restaurant in Marina Del Rey

D) Pharmarium in Stockholm

Find out if you know the answer.

Ask Mike anything

Citizens Bank Park sold Yards beer since at least 2009, when I first had season tickets, but I havent seen it available anywhere this season. Can you get to the bottom of it?  Dan P.

Sharp eye, Dan. Yards isnt part of the lineup at the ballpark this season. My contact at Aramark, the concessionaire, says it assesses the offerings each year and makes changes based on assorted factors. The goal is to keep the selection fresh and give fans a good mix to choose from, Aramark said, adding that it now offers Garage Beer (the brand backed by Jason and Travis Kelce), Wrexham Lager, and Alc-A-Chino coffee cocktails.

 Have a question about food in Philly? Email your questions to me at mklein@inquirer.com for a chance to be featured in my newsletter.

By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirers Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.
The red neon sign over the front door of the Palizzi Social Club. Read more

Palizzi Social Club, the South Philly destination that serves potent gimlets and tender braciola in retro, speakeasy-style surroundings, will open its membership rolls for the first time in two years.

One hundred memberships will be available in coming weeks.

Advertisement

We just felt like it was time to do it again, said general manager Jorgen Eriksen, who said the private club routinely gets requests but limits its ranks to avoid overcrowding. The club  which under Pennsylvania laws may only admit members and their guests  does not disclose the number of members.

Palizzi, which chef Joey Baldino revived in 2017 in its rowhouse near Passyunk Square, will sell the $20 annual memberships at the front door, 1408 S. 12th St., at 3 p.m. on four consecutive Thursdays starting May 8. Like everything else at Palizzi, transactions are cash only.

Twenty-five memberships will be available each week, and the first 10 new members will receive a complimentary gold seal that grants access to the second-floor Presidents Room  the cocktail lounge with bar snacks and live music that opened in February to accommodate Palizzis overflow.

Each member may bring three guests to either space.

The gold seals usually cost $40. The Presidents Room seats about 25 people  five at the bar  while the main room downstairs can accommodate about 45.

Those who miss out will be given an application, which can be dropped off. They will be reviewed by the clubs assembly, which will mail out notices of acceptance. Palizzi said its next round of memberships would be open in May 2027.

Palizzi was founded in 1918 by immigrants from the town of Vasto, Italy, who wanted a gathering place for countrymen as they navigated their new world.

They named it after Filippo Palizzi, a 19th-century painter and townsman.

Baldino grew up around the corner amid three generations of his family, which has run Palizzi since 1952. His uncle Ernest Mezzaroba, who was 82 when he died in December 2016, was the previous operator.

Baldino has maintained Palizzi as a time capsule, featuring brown wall paneling, white drop ceiling, tile floor, wooden bar topped in marble and bordered in leather, (nonfunctional) cigarette machine, smoked glass mirror, multicolor Naugahyde bar stools, linoleum-topped tables rimmed in stainless steel, and framed portraits of Pope Pius XII and Frank Rizzo.

Baldino also owns Zeppoli, a BYOB in Collingswood, which he likens to his grandmothers house. Palizzi, with its history, in my head  was Grandpops place, he said. Baldinos homage to old-time South Philly continues with his recent purchase of Bomb Bomb BBQ, which he plans to reopen later this summer.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul speaks at a news conference in New York in February. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, File) Read more

When the news broke on Jan. 31 that a New York physician had been indicted for shipping abortion medications to a woman in Louisiana, it stoked fear across the network of doctors and medical clinics who engage in similar work.

Its scary. Its frustrating, said Angel Foster, cofounder of the Massachusetts Medication Abortion Access Project, a clinic near Boston that mails mifepristone and misoprostol pills to patients in states with abortion bans. But, Foster added, its not entirely surprising.

Advertisement

Ever since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022, abortion providers like her had been expecting prosecution or another kind of legal challenge from states with abortion bans, she said.

It was unclear when those tests would come, and would it be against an individual provider or a practice or organization? she said. Would it be a criminal indictment, or would it be a civil lawsuit, or even an attack on licensure? she wondered. All of that was kind of unknown, and were starting to see some of this play out.

The indictment also sparked worry among abortion providers like Kohar Der Simonian, medical director for Maine Family Planning. The clinic doesnt mail pills into states with bans, but it does treat patients who travel from those states to Maine for abortion care.

It just hit home that this is real, like this could happen to anybody, at any time now, which is scary, Der Simonian said.

Der Simonian and Foster both know the indicted doctor, Margaret Carpenter.

I feel for her. I very much support her, Foster said. I feel very sad for her that she has to go through all of this.

On Jan. 31, Carpenter became the first U.S. doctor criminally charged for providing abortion pills across state lines  a medical practice that grew after the U.S. Supreme Courts Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization decision on June 24, 2022, which overturned Roe.

Since Dobbs, 12 states have enacted near-total abortion bans, and an additional 10 have outlawed the procedure after a certain point in pregnancy, but before a fetus is viable.

Carpenter was indicted alongside a Louisiana mother who allegedly received the mailed package and gave the pills prescribed by Carpenter to her minor daughter.

The teen wanted to keep the pregnancy and called 911 after taking the pills, according to an NPR and KFF Health News interview with Tony Clayton, the Louisiana local district attorney prosecuting the case. When police responded, they learned about the medication, which carried the prescribing doctors name, Clayton said.

On Feb. 11, Louisianas Republican governor, Jeff Landry, signed an extradition warrant for Carpenter. He later posted a video arguing she must face extradition to Louisiana, where she can stand trial and justice will be served.

New Yorks Democratic governor, Kathy Hochul, countered by releasing her own video, confirming she was refusing to extradite Carpenter. The charges carry a possible five-year prison sentence.

Louisiana has changed their laws, but that has no bearing on the laws here in the state of New York, Hochul said.

Eight states  New York, Maine, California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington  have passed laws since 2022 to protect doctors who mail abortion pills out of state, and thereby block or shield them from extradition in such cases. But this is the first criminal test of these relatively new shield laws.

The telemedicine practice of consulting with remote patients and prescribing them medication abortion via the mail has grown in recent years  and is now playing a critical role in keeping abortion somewhat accessible in states with strict abortion laws, according to research from the Society of Family Planning, a group that supports abortion access.

Doctors who prescribe abortion pills across state lines describe facing a new reality in which the criminal risk is no longer hypothetical. The doctors say that if they stop, tens of thousands of patients would no longer be able to end early pregnancies safely at home, under the care of a U.S. physician. But the doctors could end up in the crosshairs of a legal clash over the interstate practice of medicine when two states disagree on whether people have a right to end a pregnancy.

Doctors on alert but remain defiant

Maine Family Planning, a network of clinics across 19 locations, offers abortions, birth control, gender-affirming care, and other services. One patient recently drove over 17 hours from South Carolina, a state with a six-week abortion ban, Der Simonian said.

For Der Simonian, that case illustrates how desperate some of the practices patients are for abortion access. Its why she supported Maines 2024 shield law, she said.

Maine Family Planning has discussed whether to start mailing abortion medication to patients in states with bans, but it has decided against it for now, according to Kat Mavengere, a clinic spokesperson.

Reflecting on Carpenters indictment, Der Simonian said it underscored the stakes for herself  and her clinic  of providing any abortion care to out-of-state patients. Shield laws were written to protect against the possibility that a state with an abortion ban charges and tries to extradite a doctor who performed a legal, in-person procedure on someone who had traveled there from another state, according to a review of shield laws by the Center on Reproductive Health, Law, and Policy at the UCLA School of Law.

It is a fearful time to do this line of work in the United States right now, Der Simonian said. There will be a next case. And even though Maines shield law protects abortion providers, she said, you just dont know whats going to happen.

Data shows that in states with total or six-week abortion bans, an average of 7,700 people a month were prescribed and took mifepristone and misoprostol to end their pregnancies by out-of-state doctors practicing in states with shield laws. The data, covering the second quarter of 2024, is part of a #WeCount report estimating the volume and types of abortions in the U.S., conducted by the Society of Family Planning.

Among Louisiana residents, nearly 60% of abortions took place via telemedicine in the second half of 2023 (the most recent period for which estimates are available), giving Louisiana the highest rate of telemedicine abortions among states that passed strict bans after Dobbs, according to the #WeCount survey.

Organizations like the Massachusetts Medication Abortion Access Project, known as the MAP, are responding to the demand for remote care. The MAP was launched after the Dobbs ruling, with the mission of writing prescriptions for patients in other states.

During 2024, the MAP says, it was mailing abortion medications to about 500 patients a month. In the new year, the monthly average has grown to 3,000 prescriptions a month, said Foster, the groups cofounder.

The majority of the MAPs patients  80%  live in Texas or states in the Southeast, a region blanketed with near-total abortion restrictions, Foster said.

But the recent indictment from Louisiana will not change the MAPs plans, Foster said. The MAP currently has four staff doctors and is hiring one more.

I think there will be some providers who will step out of the space, and some new providers will step in. But it has not changed our practice, Foster said. It has not changed our intention to continue to practice.

The MAPs organizational structure was designed to spread potential liability, Foster said.

The person who orders the pills is different than the person who prescribes the pills, is different from the person who ships the pills, is different from the person who does the payments, she explained.

In 22 states and Washington, D.C., Democratic leaders helped establish shield laws or similarly protective executive orders, according to the UCLA School of Law review of shield laws.

The review found that in eight states, the shield law applies to in-person and telemedicine abortions. In the other 14 states plus Washington, D.C., the protections do not explicitly extend to abortion via telemedicine.

Most of the shield laws also apply to civil lawsuits against doctors. Over a month before Louisiana indicted Carpenter, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton filed a civil suit against her. A Texas judge ruled against Carpenter on Feb. 13, imposing penalties of more than $100,000.

By definition, state shield laws cannot protect doctors when they leave the state. If they move or even travel elsewhere, they lose the first states protection and risk arrest in the destination state, and maybe extradition to a third state.

Physicians doing this type of work accept there are parts of the U.S. where they should no longer go, said Julie F. Kay, a human rights lawyer who helps doctors set up telemedicine practices.

Theres really a commitment not to visit those banned and restricted states, said Kay, who worked with Carpenter to help start the Abortion Coalition for Telemedicine.

We didnt have anybody going to the Super Bowl or Mardi Gras or anything like that, Kay said of the doctors who practice abortion telemedicine across state lines.

She said she has talked to other interested doctors who decided against doing it because they have an elderly parent in Florida, or a college student somewhere, or family in the South. Any visits, even for a relatives illness or death, would be too risky.

I dont use the word hero lightly or toss it around, but its a pretty heroic level of providing care, Kay said.

Governors clash over doctors fate

Carpenters case remains unresolved. New Yorks rebuff of Louisianas extradition request shows the states shield law is working as designed, according to David Cohen and Rachel Rebouche, law professors with expertise in abortion laws.

Louisiana officials, for their part, have pushed back in social media posts and media interviews.

It is not any different than if she had sent fentanyl here. Its really not, Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill told Fox 8 News in New Orleans. She sent drugs that are illegal to send into our state.

Louisianas next step would be challenging New York in federal courts, according to legal experts across the political spectrum.

NPR and KFF Health News asked Clayton, the Louisiana prosecutor who charged Carpenter, whether Louisiana has plans to do that. Clayton declined to answer.

Case highlights fraught new legal frontier

A major problem with the new shield laws is that they challenge the basic fabric of U.S. law, which relies on reciprocity between states, including in criminal cases, said Thomas Jipping, a senior legal fellow with the Heritage Foundation, which supports a national abortion ban.

This actually tries to undermine another states ability to enforce its own laws, and thats a very grave challenge to this tradition in our country, Jipping said. Its unclear what legal issues, or potentially constitutional issues, it may raise.

But other legal scholars disagree with Jippings interpretation. The U.S. Constitution requires extradition only for those who commit crimes in one state and then flee to another state, said Cohen, a law professor at Drexel Universitys Thomas R. Kline School of Law.

Telemedicine abortion providers arent located in states with abortion bans and have not fled from those states  therefore they arent required to be extradited back to those states, Cohen said. If Louisiana tries to take its case to federal court, he said, theyre going to lose because the Constitution is clear on this.

The shield laws certainly do undermine the notion of interstate cooperation, and comity, and respect for the policy choices of each state, Cohen said, but that has long been a part of American law and history.

When states make different policy choices, sometimes theyre willing to give up those policy choices to cooperate with another state, and sometimes theyre not, he said.

The conflicting legal theories will be put to the test if this case goes to federal court, other legal scholars said.

It probably puts New York and Louisiana in real conflict, potentially a conflict that the Supreme Court is going to have to decide, said Rebouche, dean of the Temple University Beasley School of Law.

Rebouche, Cohen, and law professor Greer Donley worked together to draft a proposal for how state shield laws might work. Connecticut passed the first law  though it did not include protections specifically for telemedicine. It was signed by the states governor in May 2022, over a month before the Supreme Court overturned Roe, in anticipation of potential future clashes between states over abortion rights.

In some shield-law states, theres a call to add more protections in response to Carpenters indictment.

New York state officials have. On Feb. 3, Hochul signed a law that allows physicians to name their clinic as the prescriber  instead of using their own names  on abortion medications they mail out of state. The intent is to make it more difficult to indict individual doctors. Der Simonian is pushing for a similar law in Maine.

Samantha Glass, a family medicine physician in New York, has written such prescriptions in a previous job, and plans to find a clinic where she could offer that again. Once a month, she travels to a clinic in Kansas to perform in-person abortions.

Carpenters indictment could cause some doctors to stop sending pills to states with bans, Glass said. But she believes abortion should be as accessible as any other health care.

Someone has to do it. So why wouldnt it be me? Glass said. I just think access to this care is such a lifesaving thing for so many people that I just couldnt turn my back on it.

This article is from a partnership that includes WWNO, NPR, and KFF Health News.
Solomon Furious Worlds, an attorney with the ACLU of Pennsylvania, speaks against a planned ICE alliance by the Bucks County sheriff Wednesday during a news conference outside the Bucks County Justice Center in Doylestown. Read more

Bucks County commissioners questioned aspects of the sheriffs plan to have his deputies help ICE enforce immigration laws, saying they were reviewing its legality and troubled about potential financial liability.

Board Vice Chairperson Diane Ellis-Marseglia said on Wednesday she supported both law enforcement agencies, but, We want ICE to do ICE and sheriff to do sheriff.

Advertisement

She spoke during a tense commissioners meeting where about 200 people crowded the hall to endorse and condemn the proposal.

The first speaker questioned if the immigration activists who oppose the initiative had a financial incentive for doing so. The second called on the commissioners to stop what he described as a political stunt by the sheriff.

One resident called immigration supporters idiots, another accused former President Joe Biden of treason for his border policies, and a third blamed undocumented people for crime, including killings and child-trafficking.

Other speakers, opposed to a local alliance with ICE, told the commissioners that the partnership was a bad idea, morally, legally, and financially.

The sheriff speaks

Shortly after the meeting began, the man at the center of the discord rose to speak. Sheriff Fred Harran strode to the microphone at the front of the hall  and criticized the commissioners over a school-related issue, never mentioning the swirling ICE controversy.

He also urged them to listen to a new law-and-order podcast that his office is about to launch.

Harran said afterward that there was no point in trying to explain the entirety of the ICE partnership in the three minutes allotted to him. And he noted the commissioners asked him no questions about it, despite having the opportunity.

The sheriffs department intends to join a controversial partnership program known as 287(g), where local police actively assist U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

The department would be the first in the Philadelphia region to collaborate with ICE under the initiative, named for a section of a 1996 immigration law.

 READ MORE: Bucks County sheriff wants to help ICE enforce immigration laws through a controversial partnership program

Harran insists the alliance would not be used for immigration sweeps, random checks, or broad enforcement, but that those who commit crimes must face the consequences regardless of immigration status.

Opponents say participation in the 287(g) program inevitably leads to racial profiling by local police. They maintain it fractures trust between police and the communities they serve, and deprives local taxpayers of the full services for which theyre paying.

Lawyers reviewing the ICE agreement

Board of Commissioners Chairperson Bob Harvie Jr. said the countys lawyers were reviewing the agreement that Harran signed, which has yet to be formally approved by ICE.

He said the proposed partnership provided no coverage to the county for liability, meaning taxpayers would bear the cost of attorneys and legal settlements if lawsuits followed an immigration incident.

He noted that some speakers cited the programs potential impact on county tourism and reputation, if visitors stayed away from what they perceived as an unwelcoming place.

Tourism, he said, is a major county industry, injecting more than a billion dollars a year into the local economy.

The caustic debate in Bucks County comes as President Donald Trump seeks to carry out what he claims will be the largest deportation effort in American history, one in which he has called on state and local law enforcement agencies for help.

As of Wednesday, ICE has signed 523 agreements  up by more than 50 in roughly the last two weeks  with police in 38 states.

Bucks was the only county in the Philadelphia region to vote for Trump last year. Harran, a Republican who is up for reelection, has consistently clashed with the Democratic-controlled board of commissioners in recent months.

ICE officials said Tuesday that they had no comment on the situation in Bucks County, where the discussion has turned rancorous.

Harran said this week that some opponents have used Holocaust-era language to slander him as the states only Jewish sheriff, rhetoric he said was deeply offensive and has no place in Bucks County.

Commenters on the sheriffs department Facebook page said Harran was behaving like a Nazi and making his department part of the modern-day Gestapo.

Ugly language on Facebook

You sound like a Nazi sympathizer, or collaborator, and you know what happened to them once the forces of good overpowered the forces of evil, one woman wrote.

At a hearing last week on student online safety in Northampton Township, a woman asked Harran if he planned to round up immigrants, called him a Nazi, and warned him to stay out of the community, reported NewtownPAnow.com.

Heidi Roux, executive director of Immigrant Rights Action, said Wednesday that such attacks were wrong. I denounce that language and that rhetoric, she said.

She spoke as a coalition of civil rights and immigration groups gathered outside the county Justice Center, stating their opposition to 287(g) at a news conference before the commissioners met.

Harran has described his departments involvement as a narrowly defined initiative focused on public safety, one in which 12 of the departments 76 deputies would be trained to access a federal database, identifying people taken into custody on criminal charges and who have outstanding warrants in Bucks County.

But immigration activists dispute that, saying the program would allow sheriffs deputies to ask anyone about their legal status and to serve warrants for immigration violations, turning local officers into de facto ICE agents.

Jurisdictions that have rejected the 287(g) program say they pay their police officers to enforce local laws and assist local residents, not to do the work of the federal government.

Some places fear legal liability

They fear losing the cooperation of immigrant crime victims and witnesses. And some police departments dropped out of the program after Lehigh County and Allentown authorities were successfully sued for keeping a man of Puerto Rican descent in prison so that ICE could investigate whether he was in the country illegally.

That settlement cost taxpayers $145,000.

About 70 people attended the news conference, where leaders from NAACP Bucks County, Make the Road Pennsylvania, CASA, and the ACLU called on Harran to abandon his plan.

Solomon Furious Worlds, a staff attorney at the ACLU, told the crowd that legal settlements and attorneys fees follow agencies that join with ICE.

Signing on to a 287(g) agreement is signing on for more taxes, he said.

Speakers pledged to force the plans dismissal through public outcry and by appealing to the county commissioners and the state legislature.

We ask that our sheriffs department do not become ICE agents, Roux told the crowd. We support the sheriffs effort to catch more criminals, and we believe the only way to do that is if everyone in Bucks County is comfortable reporting crime.
A portion of the Budd Biotech campus at 2450 W. Hunting Park Ave on Monday, May 20, 2024. The site is now eyed by Philadelphia Sheriff Rochelle Bilal for a new departmental headquarters. Read more

Rochelle Bilal, the embattled sheriff of Philadelphia, wants more money  and a new office.

As Bilal fends off calls for her office to be abolished, she is asking city officials to drastically increase her staff and budget, while also floating plans for a new headquarters in Tioga and a deputy training academy in North Philadelphia.

Advertisement

At a City Council budget hearing on Tuesday, Bilal requested an almost $20 million boost to her $34 million budget and spoke about the need to train new deputies inside city limits. Recruits must currently travel three hours to a facility in State College, Pa., to attend a 19-week training course. The sheriff says the distance and extended time away had made recruitment more difficult.

Bilal said she had identified a suitable property to lease for a training facility that is local and already cleared out.

We already submitted the space requirement to the city, Bilal told City Council. We want it as soon as we can. The end of this year or the beginning of next year.

Records obtained by The Inquirer show that Bilal has requested permission from the city to lease more than 80,000 square feet of space in two commercial buildings in North Philadelphia  one for the training academy, and the other for a new office headquarters.

The academy would be located at 2929 North Broad St., inside a former Social Security Administration office building that is owned by local developer Guy Laren. The 44,950-square-foot facility is currently vacant. A rental listing for a portion of the property listed lease prices of around $20 a square foot  or about $800,000 to $900,000 annually.

The sheriff also requested a lease for another 40,000 square feet of space on the fourth floor of 2450 W. Hunting Park Avenue, a multistory industrial building near the Nicetown section of North Philly that was formerly part of the Budd Co. manufacturing complex. That space would replace the sheriffs current headquarters on the 5th and 6th floor of the Land Title building, in Center City.

The site has been marketed by New York City-based developer the Plymouth Group as a potential life science campus known as Budd Bioworks.

As recently as last year, State Sen. Sharif Street and Councilmember Curtis Jones had unsuccessfully pitched portions of the facility as a future home of the Philadelphia Police forensics lab. Street and Jones are both considered Bilal allies.

Street, on Wednesday, acknowledged he was involved in pitching the space to Bilal for a new headquarters. He said he viewed a city lease as a way to draw public attention to the proposed life science campus, which sits within his senate district.

I think it would be a great idea for her to relocate there, he said in an interview Wednesday. Its a great site. Its centrally located and it offers access to almost every part of the city.

Street said the facility is a good fit despite the fact that much of the sheriffs work  like securing city courtrooms and transporting criminal defendants  revolves around downtown court facilities more than four miles away.

He said the sheriff also serves writs and warrants citywide, and would benefit from a site with highway access and ample parking.

Youre serving people all over the city, Street said. And Center City is expensive. Parking alone is expensive.

Street did not offer specifics on funding. Nor did Bilal or City Council members discuss in detail how her proposals would be funded in the budget hearing.

A spokesperson for the sheriff did not respond to requests for comment. Nor did spokespeople for Mayor Cherelle L. Parkers administration.

The sheriff would have to contribute additional funding to support the costs of operating a local facility, vs. training deputy recruits at the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency main academy in Central Pennsylvania.

Bilal indicated she had reached out to suburban sheriffs departments about chipping in toward those costs, and a budget document states that requests for funding are being developed for submission to state agencies.

On Wednesday, PCCD said the state agency is still awaiting specifics from Bilal.

PCCD has requested information from the Philadelphia Sheriffs Office about their proposal, said spokesperson Alison Gantz. We have no further information to share at this time.

The request for a new headquarters comes despite the fact that the department currently has over 100 vacant jobs, according to sheriffs officials. In addition to the lack of a convenient training location, Bilal has also said her office competes with the Philadelphia police department and prison system for applicants, both of which offer higher pay.

During Tuesdays Council hearing, Council President Kenyatta Johnson expressed skepticism at Bilals request for a nearly 55% budget increase  largely to fund another 130 deputy positions  given that her office is struggling to fill dozens of jobs already approved in the budget.

Were going to look at those vacancies in calculations with what youre actually requesting funding for, said Johnson, a self-described Bilal supporter. And we would like to see the vacancies filled first.

The Sheriffs Office has faced two court orders  one in December 2024, another in March 2025  from city judges, ordering the office to correct a long-running deputy shortage that had imperiled prisoner transport operations and courthouse security.

The courts have indicated that Bilal had submitted a plan in April regarding strategies to boost recruitment. However, the Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority  the citys state appointed fiscal watchdog  has recommended abolishing the Sheriffs Office due to chronic delays in recording deeds, lack of accounting controls, and difficulty resuming auctions of tax delinquent property.

In Council chambers, Bilal had some pointed criticism for PICA.

They are way out of their line, she said, recommending elimination of any elected official in this city.
Archbishop Charles J. Chaput (center) watches as Pope Francis (left) greets members of the Philadelphia delegation during the papal audience in St. Peter's Square on March 26, 2014. Read more

Archbishop Emeritus Charles J. Chaputs recent critique of the late Pope Francis in the publication First Things, published with the authority of someone who once led Philadelphias archdiocese, presents a narrow and troubling view of a pontificate that resonated deeply with millions of Catholics and non-Catholics alike.

His assertion that Pope Francis was inadequate to the real issues facing the Church rests on a flawed premise that fidelity to the Gospel must resemble rigid continuity with the papacies of John Paul II and Benedict XVI in form, rather than in spirit.

Advertisement

Francis was not hostile to the Second Vatican Council, nor to his predecessors.

What he challenged, rightly, was the uniquely militant strain of conservatism that has taken root in segments of the Catholic Church in America. This is a conservatism more often concerned with ideological policing than with pastoral care, more invested in patrolling doctrinal borders than in proclaiming the liberating joy of the Gospel.

Far from undermining the councils legacy, Francis sought to fulfill it. Where others clung to doctrinal rigidity, he embodied the councils deeper vision: accompaniment, mercy, and a church that speaks with humility to a wounded world.

It was Francis who called the church to emerge from self-referential isolation and engage the margins, not as a strategy, but as a moral imperative. Where Chaput sees ambiguity, the broader church hears something Francis critics seldom speak: the language of mercy. Where Chaput sees confusion, many of us hear the radical call of Christ to justice, compassion, and inclusion.

It is Archbishop Emeritus Chaput, not our late pontiff, who seems profoundly out of step with the moment we are in.

This is the same archbishop who once called for the cancellation of the Synod of Bishops on young people in the wake of the clergys sexual abuse crisis in 2018, a suggestion that fundamentally misread the roots of that scandal. As I argued at the time, the abuse was the product of secrecy, clericalism, and a leadership culture more accountable to itself than to the families it claimed to serve. Francis knew that healing would not come through more withdrawal, but by opening the churchs doors wide to the people who had been betrayed.

The vision of the church as a doctrinal fortress to be defended, rather than a people to be accompanied, finds its most troubling expression in the militant traditionalism gaining influence among Francis critics.

This is not a loyal opposition, as Chaput claims, but a full-throated rejection of the churchs missionary identity in favor of liturgical nostalgia and clerical isolation. It clings to a past not out of reverence, but out of fear of the present and resistance to the future.

Nowhere is this starker than in the calls among some of the militant conservatives for a return to the Latin Mass, a rite conducted in a dead language, unintelligible to most Catholics, with the priest literally turning his back on the people. That gesture speaks volumes: a church turned inward, away from its faithful, away from the world it is called to serve.

It seeks to preserve a church frozen in time, not evolving and, more troublingly, never intending to.

Pope Francis understood that the vitality of the church is not found in the preservation of externals, but in the constant renewal of its heart. Thats why he named himself after Francis of Assisi.

He did not get everything right. No pope ever does. But to dismiss his pontificate as a failure is to overlook the extraordinary courage it took to speak plainly about the poor and the marginalized, about refugees, about the earth, and, yes, about the grave sins of the church itself.

That is not inadequacy. That is the Gospel made flesh in our time. That is the legacy of a shepherd who chose to walk with his flock, not stand above it.

To fail to see that legacy is not a matter of candor. It is a failure of discipleship.

Alfred G. Mueller II is assistant dean of the William T. Daly School of General Studies and Graduate Education at Stockton University and the former dean of arts and sciences at Neumann University (2013-2023). He is the author of In the Name of God (2004) and a former Fulbright Scholar in the Republic of Armenia.
Sen. Ruben Gallego (D., Ariz.) writes that a visit to Bucks County this weekend is designed "to turn up the heat" on inaction in Washington. Read more

We have a president hell-bent on pushing aggressive tariff policies that are raising prices on American households, and Elon Musk is cutting programs our kids and seniors rely on. All the while, the conversations happening in Washington, D.C., are disconnected from the conversations happening at kitchen tables.

Yet, despite all this, Democrats still look like the party that brought a knife to a gunfight. And honestly, its not as easy as just standing up to Donald Trump at every possible chance. Voters want Washington to work. They want their elected leaders to work together and solve problems, not score points.

Advertisement

As a Marine, standing up for whats right is second nature to me. I understand the pressure families in Pennsylvania are under right now because Ive lived it. I grew up working any job I could  a meatpacking plant, a hot dog stand, cleaning dorm rooms in college  just to make ends meet. Like many Pennsylvania families, I know what its like to work hard and still feel like youre falling behind.

When you grow up poor, hope is your only currency. That sense of possibility, that belief tomorrow can be better, is what kept me going, and keeps so many families pushing forward today.

With prices rising, wages not keeping up, and housing and childcare becoming less affordable, its no surprise that voters have looked for unconventional solutions. But unconventional doesnt always mean better. Acting swiftly without a clear plan has left too many families to deal with uncertainty and instability.

In the first 100 days of this administration, Ive heard directly from Americans who wanted to give the president and Congress a chance but are exhausted by the daily chaos and lack of clarity.

Ive caught some flak for working with the other side  something Im not sorry for. But when the White House and the Republican-led Congress cross the line and threaten the pocketbooks of families in Pennsylvania, Arizona, and across America, we need to call them out and fight.

Thats why Im coming to Pennsylvania. The Keystone State, like Arizona, is a battleground where the voices of hardworking families must be heard and their concerns taken seriously.

The voices of hardworking families must be heard and their concerns taken seriously.

Here are the numbers: Over three million Pennsylvanians rely on Medicaid, also known as medical assistance. More than two million rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which helps families with children and Pennsylvanians with disabilities put food on the table. If Republicans cut these programs, Pennsylvania could lose nearly 50,000 jobs and see its economy shrink by $5.3 billion.

This would be devastating. And I would know. I grew up relying on these types of programs. I was raised by a single mother who worked to provide for my three sisters and me. Families like mine arent abstract statistics.

These numbers reflect grocery bills, rent, and prescriptions. Cuts mean real consequences for real people, and Ive long said you can have all the graphs you want, but if you check your bank account and bring home less, it doesnt matter what the GDP growth is.

And thats where people are feeling it. These cuts would be a one-two punch on top of the losses Pennsylvania families are already experiencing.

Retirement accounts are plummeting, a reckless trade war is raising prices, and Musk and his cronies continue to slash access to services like Social Security and childhood school programs. Families feel like theyre getting hit from every angle.

This isnt about left or right. Its about priorities. Its about whether were building a future where everyone has a fair shot  or as some of my colleagues in Congress would prefer, one where only a few get ahead on the backs of hardworking families.

I cant stand idle, so Im heading to Bucks County to turn up the heat and show Pennsylvanians whats at stake  their healthcare, retirement security, and childrens future.

The stakes are too high for anyone to stay on the sidelines. Im going to make sure the voices of real people, hardworking Americans, are heard where it counts.

So I hope youll join me in laying out the stakes. I want to hear your stories and bring them back to Washington  because no matter whos in charge, the people deserve to be heard.

Ruben Gallego is a first-term Democratic U.S. senator from Arizona.
TAMPA, Fla.  Taijuan Walker is still figuring it out.

Its only been a few days since Ranger Suarez returned from the injured list for his start on Sunday, bumping Walker out of the starting rotation. But Walkers move to the bullpen isnt necessarily permanent. Phillies manager Rob Thomson said its possible that the Phillies will opt to return to a six-man rotation at some point.

Advertisement

I dont think theres any really way to approach it, because I dont really control when I pitch, Walker said. The only thing I do is be ready to pitch whenever.

When Walker was moved to the bullpen last season, it was under very different circumstances: a last resort due to Walkers prolonged struggles with both command and velocity. This year, however, his 2.54 ERA as a starter is second best on the Phillies pitching staff, after Jesus Luzardo (1.94).

As he navigates the change in role this time around, Walker is still feeling out his routine.

Its definitely going to change, he said. When you know when youre pitching, you can build out a routine for four or five days so it makes it easier. But I guess now its just kind of figure out my stretching routine and just really lock in and get ready, and stuff like that.

 READ MORE: Bryce Harper is frustrated on a bigger level by his start, but knows a breakout is coming

Walker said he leaned on Matt Strahm when he made the transition to relief last season. He has continued to be a resource, as has Joe Ross, who similarly made the switch from starter to reliever for the Brewers last season and currently serves a multi-inning relief role for the Phillies.

Walker is mainly staying focused on being ready for when the bullpen phone rings for him. But the possibility remains that he could return to the rotation at some point, so part of his preparations will also be built around that.

It could be longer bullpens, Thomson said. It could be we get him into games where we need two, three, four innings. Dont know how its going to play out, but if it does, that would be great.

Organization awards

The Phillies named right-hander Mick Abel pitcher of the month for April, while Otto Kemp and Aroon Escobar shared hitter of the month honors.

Abel, 23, posted a 2.13 ERA with triple-A Lehigh Valley over 29 innings in April. Abel, the Phillies No. 8 prospect, was selected in the first round of the 2020 draft.

Kemp hit .330 with a 1.132 OPS with Lehigh Valley last month, hitting 11 doubles, one triple, and eight home runs. The third basemans .711 slugging percentage and 20 extra-base hits led the International League. Kemp was also named IL player of the month for April. The 25-year-old signed with the Phillies in 2022 as an undrafted free agent.

 READ MORE: Phillies prospect Dante Nori grew up collecting baseball cards. Now hes chasing his own rookie cards.

The numbers look really good, tremendous, Thomson said of Kemp last week. Its on-base, its slug. The defense has been solid. Hes had a great start.

Escobar slashed .360/.461/.627 in 19 April games for low-A Clearwater. He reached safely in every game, and tied for first in the Florida State League in total hits with 27. Escobar, a 20-year-old infielder, signed with the Phillies as an amateur free agent out of Venezuela.

Extra bases

Thomson said Tuesday that Jose Ruiz (neck spasms) was better today.  Rays rookie center fielder Chandler Simpson stole 104 bases in 110 minor-league games last year. Those are numbers Ive never seen before, Thomson said. What goes into stopping him on the basepaths? Dont let him get on base.  Cristopher Sanchez (3-1, 3.45 ERA) is scheduled to start Wednesday against Tampa Bay right-hander Shane Baz (3-1, 3.86).
WASHINGTON  U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney faced off in the Oval Office on Tuesday and showed no signs of retreating from their gaping differences in an ongoing trade war that has shattered decades of trust between the two countries.

The two kept it civil, but as for Trumps calls to make Canada the 51st state, Carney insisted his nation was not for sale and Trump shot back, time will tell.

Advertisement

Asked by a reporter if there was anything Carney could tell him to lift his tariffs of as much as 25% on Canada, Trump bluntly said: No.

The U.S. president added for emphasis, Just the way it is.

Carney acknowledged that no bit of rhetoric on tariffs would be enough to sway Trump, saying that this is a bigger discussion.

There are much bigger forces involved, the Canadian leader continued. And this will take some time and some discussions. And thats why were here, to have those discussions.

The meeting between the two leaders showcased the full spectrum of Trumps unique mix of aggression, hospitality and stubbornness.

Shortly before Carneys arrival, Trump insulted Canada by posting on social media that the United States didnt need ANYTHING from its northern neighbor, only to then turn on the charm and praise Carneys election win in person before showing his obstinance on matters of policy substance.

Carney won the job of prime minister by promising to confront the increased aggression shown by Trump, even as he has preserved the calm demeanor of an economist who has led the central banks of both Canada and the United Kingdom.

At times, Carney struggled to interject his views and raised his hand to talk as Trump held forth at length and veered between topics, touching on California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, Carneys predecessor, Justin Trudeau, and teasing a great upcoming announcement thats not necessarily on trade.

Trump offended Canadas sense of pride and friendship by saying he wants to make Canada the 51st U.S. state and levying steep tariffs against an essential partner in the manufacturing of autos and the supply of oil, electricity and other goods. The outrage provoked by Trump enabled Carneys Liberal Party to score a stunning comeback victory last month as the trade war and attacks on Canadian sovereignty have outraged voters.

Trump said the two would not discuss making Canada part of the U.S., even as he insisted the idea would lead to lower taxes for Canadians.

Its not for sale, Carney said. It wont be for sale. Ever. But the opportunity is in the partnership and what we can build together.

Trump persisted by saying that the United States did not want to buy autos from Canada, even if the vehicles were also assembled in America. The U.S. leader insisted that the $63 billion trade deficit in goods  which he inflated to $200 billion  was a subsidy that needed to come an end.

The meeting never devolved into the outburst that the public saw in Trumps meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who was berated by the U.S. president and his team for not being sufficiently deferential. Nor did it have the ease of Trumps sit down with the United Kingdoms Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who invited Trump for a visit provided by King Charles III.

The stakes of the meeting were high and the messages beforehand mixed. Trump told reporters on Monday that he wasnt quite sure why Carney was visiting.

Im not sure what he wants to see me about, Trump said. But I guess he wants to make a deal.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick further stoked doubts about their interest in repairing the relationship with Canada in a Monday interview on Fox Business Networks Kudlow show.

Asked if the U.S. could make a deal with Canada, Lutnick called the country a socialist regime that has been basically feeding off America. Lutnick said Tuesdays meeting would be fascinating.

Carney, at a Friday news conference ahead of his trip, said the talks would focus on immediate trade pressures and the broader economic and national security relationships. He said his government would fight to get the best deal for Canada and take all the time necessary to do so, even as Canada pursues a parallel set of talks to deepen relations with other allies and lessen its commitments with the U.S.

Trump has maintained that the U.S. doesnt need anything from Canada. He is actively going after a Canadian auto sector built largely by U.S. companies, saying, Theyre stopping work in Mexico, and theyre stopping work in Canada, and theyre all moving here. He also said the U.S. doesnt need Canadas energy  though nearly one-fourth of the oil that the U.S. consumes daily comes from the province of Alberta.

The president has also disparaged Canadas military commitments despite a partnership that ranges from the beaches of Normandy in World War II to remote stretches of Afghanistan. He said on Tuesday with Carney that the U.S. would continue to provide national security support to Canada.

Daniel Beland, a political science professor at McGill University, said Carney needed the quickly scheduled meeting with Trump to address the trade war started by the U.S. Trump has imposed 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum and tariffs on other products outside the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, in some cases ostensibly to address relatively low volumes of fentanyl intercepted at the border between the two countries.

Carney wants to show that hes doing everything he can, including taking political risks to protect Canadian jobs in areas such as the auto industry, Beland said. If he had postponed his first meeting with President Trump for months and months, opposition parties and commentators could have accused him of being overly shy and doing a disservice to Canada because of that.

Canada is the top export destination for 36 U.S. states. Nearly $3.6 billion Canadian (US$2.7 billion) worth of goods and services cross the border each day. About 60% of U.S. crude oil imports are from Canada, and 85% of U.S. electricity imports are from Canada.

Canada is also the largest foreign supplier of steel, aluminum and uranium to the U.S. and has 34 critical minerals and metals that the Pentagon is eager for and investing in for national security. Canada is one of the most trade-dependent countries in the world, and 77% of Canadas exports go to the U.S.
Stanley Winrow (left) joins other activists staging a peace walk in downtown Camden on Wednesday after commissioners and the mayor rallied at City Hall to denounce federal cuts to violence intervention programs. Winrow worked for one of those, Cure4Camden, that has completely shuttered after the Department of Justice cut the $3 million dollars of grant funding that kept the program afloat. The community-based policing model assisted the police department by having trusted messengers intervene in potentially violent situations, support victims of violence, and prevent retribution. Read more

A violence intervention program that Camden officials say has helped decrease crime in the city abruptly ceased operations and laid off seven staffers after President Donald Trumps administration pulled roughly $2 million in federal grants.

Cure4Camden, a violence intervention program that launched in 2014 as part of the citys overhaul of its public safety system, stopped its street outreach and early intervention initiatives as a result of the U.S. Department of Justice cut.

Advertisement

We were notified on the evening of April 22 that the last day of funding would be April 22, Anna Payanzo Cotton, chief operating officer at Center For Family Services, the nonprofit that oversees Cure4Camden, said in an interview. She said the Justice Department told the organization that the funding was no longer aligned with the priorities of the administration.

The program is unlike traditional anti-violence programs in that it employs trusted community members to intervene in conflicts, support victims of violence, and try to prevent retribution.

Stanley Winrow, 40, was a violence intervention specialist for Cure4Camden who worked with individuals at high risk for gun violence. He recruited and mentored people who were selling drugs, carrying guns, or had prior violent charges.

Until he was laid off on April 22, Winrow had a caseload of 17 people he worked with to take the steps they needed to get off the streets, whether it was finding an apartment, applying for a job, or talking them off the edge in the middle of the night.

I was on the streets for 25 years, he said in an interview. I sold drugs and been to jail and all the different things theyre going through. Thats what made the program so successful, because they know I literally come from what they come from.

Cure4Camden had been awarded $3 million in DOJ funds in two separate grants: a nearly $1 million four-year grant awarded in October 2021 and a $2 million grant for fiscal year 2024 meant to last three years. The group had already used more than 75% of the older grant, but it lost the majority  or about 85%  of the more recent award, according to Payanzo Cotton.

Winrow said three of the people he worked with told him within days of the federal funding cut that they would return to dealing drugs. Another, Winrow said, told him he would start robbing people. Winrow said he continues to talk to them daily.

They almost feel like theyre getting back at the system for betraying us by going out and doing the opposite of what the program was like, he said. Im trying to change that mindset.

A tool for lowering violence in Camden

Center For Family Services, the nonprofit that oversees Cure4Camden, is trying to find job placements for Winrow and his former coworkers elsewhere in the organization. Winrow said he is thankful he may not be completely jobless, but he started working at the organization specifically for this purpose.

I feel like I was a hindrance to the community for so long, its only right that I give back, he said. And by me giving back, Im grabbing guys that was once like me by the bootstraps and Im making them model citizens in the community.

The nonprofits leaders are accustomed to seeking out funding streams, but they had no way to plan this time, Payanzo Cotton said. Theyre now scrambling to find a funding source to resume its programs.

We typically would be notified that a grant would not be renewed or continued and have until the end of that grant cycle to plan, but we were not given that opportunity with this, Payanzo Cotton said.

The group will pursue the DOJs appeal process, but they also know that a number of other local law enforcement agencies and nonprofit organizations that do similar work across the country received termination notices at the same time, Payanzo Cotton said.

Along with spending time in communities to directly intervene in potential violence, staff had been assisting a total of 46 direct participants  including 29 youth  with a range of issues from advocating for them in court to helping them get a job. The program also helped with conflict resolution and bullying at local high schools.

They dont have that after-school point person thats going to just make sure that theyre in a safe place.  They dont have that person who they can kind of bounce decision making off of, Payanzo Cotton said. Thats been pulled out from under these participants.

Payanzo Cotton said the nonprofit is trying to connect its regular participants with other services.

Cure4Camdens hospital violence intervention services at Cooper Hospital are funded by the state and will continue to operate.

Losing Cure4Camdens programs will come at a cost and ultimately put more of an onus on local police, said Dan Keashen, a spokesperson for Camden County.

Cure4Camden helped to build bridges ... get better informed about whats happening within certain pockets of certain neighborhoods, he said. Shooting homicides in the city were down 46% and aggravated assault was down 21% in 2024 compared with 2014  the year Cure4Camden launched as part of a larger policing overhaul in the city.

A safety net thats being removed

Cure violence programs stem from violence interruption methods that originated in Chicago. A 2017 Temple University study of a Philadelphia-based cure violence program found that it reduced shootings by 30% in targeted zones in North Philadelphia. That program also struggled with funding after not getting a grant renewed with the city and the U.S. Justice Department after former President Barack Obama left office.

Camden County Commissioners Director Lou Cappelli Jr. said Cure4Camden has helped reduce violent crime in the county as a result of its impacts on the city. He fears that violence will soon go in the opposite direction.

This is like a safety net thats being removed from the city of Camden, he said. A lot of these kids are coming from families of poverty, and if we dont provide this help, theyre not getting any help.

Cappellis message to the Trump administration:

Youre going to cripple our efforts to reduce crimes committed by young people in Camden City, he said. Cutting off these funds will actually promote crime rather than hinder crime.

The White House did not respond to a request for comment.

Camden officials spoke about the funding cuts at a 10 a.m. news conference Wednesday before activists and supporters of the program marched in a peace walk.
File photo. The Pennsylvania state House on Wednesday narrowly approved a bill to legalize, tax and regulate recreational marijuana for adults ages 21 and older in a 102-101 vote along party lines. Read more

HARRISBURG  Pennsylvania took its first step Wednesday toward legalizing recreational marijuana under a state-owned-store model, adopting the same system for how the state currently sells liquor.

The Pennsylvania state House, for the first time, narrowly approved a bill to legalize, tax, and regulate recreational marijuana for adults ages 21 and older in a 102-101 vote along party lines. The bill  which is likely to die in the Republican-controlled state Senate  would also expunge and vacate certain marijuana-related criminal convictions.

Advertisement

House Bill 1200, introduced on Sunday and fast-tracked through the state House this week, was authored by Reps. Rick Krajewski (D., Philadelphia) and Dan Frankel (D., Allegheny). The lawmakers said during floor debate Wednesday that the bill marked the culmination of years of work to create a legal adult-use cannabis industry, with the intention to generate new revenue that nearly all of Pennsylvanias neighboring states have tapped into, while benefiting communities that have historically been most affected by the criminalization of marijuana.

 READ MORE: Could recreational marijuana really bring $1.3 billion in revenue to Pa. over five years? Heres how other states are faring.

We are losing public dollars and ruining lives with outdated laws that prolong our failed war on drugs, Krajewski said in remarks on the House floor. The reality is, criminalization of cannabis does not work. It does not deter usage, it does not promote safety, and it is not in the best interest of our commonwealth.

All of Pennsylvanias neighboring states except West Virginia have legalized recreational marijuana, with mixed results on how much revenue the new industry actually brings in. The bill would impose a 12% excise tax, a 6% sales tax and give local governments the opportunity to tack on an additional 3% tax.

The revenue generated from the legalization of adult-use cannabis would then be split among several pots of money: 50% for a new community reinvestment fund for communities that have historically been hurt by marijuana criminalization, particularly majority Black and brown communities; 10% toward substance use disorder prevention and treatment; 5% to a cannabis business development fund geared toward social equity in the new industry; 2% to the states court system to help counties expunge and vacate marijuana convictions; and 30.5% to the states general fund.

Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, proposed in February legalizing recreational marijuana as part of his annual budget pitch, hoping the industry would generate $1.3 billion in revenue for the state its first five years.

He has proposed the measure every year since he took office in 2023. But this year, as COVID relief funds dry up and spending is set to outpace revenue, lawmakers need to create new revenue generators to help fill a $4.5 billion budget shortfall in this years budget deal  and the legalization and taxation of recreational marijuana could be one.

Democratic House members on Wednesday, in nearly three hours of floor debate, said they support legalizing recreational marijuana through state-owned stores as a way to end illicit markets, while allowing the state to cash in on marijuana usage thats already happening, as Pennsylvania residents drive across state lines to purchase legal weed.

However, the bill will face a certain death in the GOP-controlled state Senate, where the chair of the committee that will be assigned the legislation has already said he would not consider legalizing recreational marijuana under a state-store model.

As someone who has advocated for a responsible approach to legalization, I have repeatedly made it clear that a state-store model will not pass the Pennsylvania Senate, said Sen. Dan Laughlin (R., Erie), the chair of the state Senate Law and Justice committee, in a statement.

The 173-page bill calls for Pennsylvania to create cannabis retail stores as freestanding retailers or co-locate at an existing state-owned Fine Wine & Good Spirits store. It would also prohibit the use of marijuana in public spaces, as well as downgrade the penalty for people under age 21 who use or possess marijuana from a criminal offense to a $25 fine and written warning.

Republican House members voiced a number of concerns with the legislation, including questioning its constitutionality to have state employees sell a federally classified drug, its potential health effects on adults and children, its effect on law enforcement, negative impacts seen in other states that legalized recreational marijuana, and more.

Are you going to look back on this day and this vote and say, Boy, am I glad I voted to legalize another recreational drug? asked Rep. Kerry Benninghoff (R., Centre) rhetorically. I doubt you will, and I wont be doing it.

The proposal is broadly opposed by Pennsylvanias medical marijuana industry that already has hundreds of dispensaries across the state. The legalization of recreational marijuana is also opposed by several medical groups, including the Pennsylvania Medical Society.

However, as Frankel noted in his floor remarks, although the Pennsylvania Medical Society opposes recreational adult-use cannabis, the organization recognized the bill had measures that aim to protect public health.

Pennsylvanians want legal cannabis. Poll after poll shows it, time and time again, Frankel said, adding that residents go across state borders to buy legal weed there or from quasi-legal vape stores that exist around Pennsylvania.

Legalizing recreational marijuana for adult use was always going to face an uphill battle in the state Senate. Top Senate GOP leaders have said that there is not yet broad support within the caucus to legalize recreational marijuana.

Whats more: Pennsylvanias state-owned liquor stores have long been the ire of some members of the General Assembly, with several efforts over the years to try to privatize the industry.

Even Sen. Sharif Street (D., Philadelphia), who has long worked on the issue of legalizing recreational marijuana, released a statement Wednesday opposing a state-store model, but said he looked forward to working on the bill now that it has reached the Senate.

House Majority Leader Matt Bradford (D., Montgomery) said the Senate GOP now has a responsibility to consider the House Democrats proposal.

It is not enough to say [Dead on arrival] or, We dont like this structure or this THC limit or whatever fake excuse they have for not taking immediate action, Bradford added. We dont expect them to accept this bill as written and perfect. We recognize it may not be, but they can no longer hide from their responsibility to protect our communities.
Mike Huff, a Democrat running for election for judge of the Philadelphia Municipal Court, appears at a candidates forum Mar. 23, 2025 hosted by the National Coalition of 100 Black Women at Mount Carmel Baptist Church in West Philadelphia. Read more

Mike Huff, a progressive-backed Philadelphia judicial candidate, is not eligible to run in the May 20 primary, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled.

Wednesdays one-page decision put to bed a residency challenge that ran so close to election day, mail ballots went out this week with Huffs name printed on them and a note alerting voters the states highest court was still reviewing the eligibility of a candidate appearing on the ballot for Municipal Court and the Court of Common Pleas.

Advertisement

The drama that shook the usually sleepy judicial races stemmed from concerns that Huff, who said he moved to Philadelphia last May from Bala Cynwyd, isnt actually living in the city. Skeptics contended Huffs move was a ploy to run for a judicial seat, noting Huffs wife, a Democratic committeeperson in Montgomery County, has continued living in Bala Cynwyd with no plans to join Huff in the city.

On social media, the Huff campaign painted the challenge as an attempt by the Democratic City Committee and party Chairman Bob Brady to push progressives out of the party. Brady previously dismissed the digs, saying he was only trying to protect the Democratic candidates living in the city.

With the matter now settled, our focus continues on ensuring that Philadelphia voters are presented with a ballot of qualified candidates who know our neighborhoods, share our values, and will work every day to move this city forward and provide equality and justice under the laws, Brady said in a statement Wednesday.

Huffs campaign thanked supporters with a video posted on Instagram where he doubled down on his commitment to the city.

Ill continue to serve the clients that have counted on me to represent them in my 31-year legal practice, Huff said. Ill be out all across the city, showing up at neighborhood events, local music shows, and staying rooted in the fight for justice  wherever Im needed most."

In an April court hearing addressing the residency question, Huff never denied the living arrangements with his wife, but he framed them as the result of a longtime desire to move back to the city, which is where Huff lived with his wife at the start of their marriage.

Huff said despite having raised his family in Bala Cynwyd for 20 years and keeping full-time employment with the Montgomery County Public Defenders Office, he maintained a social and civic life in Philadelphia, where he was born. He kept a law office on Race Street; canvassed for local candidates; and represented Philadelphia protesters, encampment occupants and organizers, and fair-housing advocates.

To make his case in court, Huff brought W-2s, utility bills from his Mount Airy apartment, and neighbors who testified to his presence in the triplex he occupied and rented.

When first hearing the case, Commonwealth Court Judge Lori A. Dumas focused on a line in the election code that says a married persons residence is where their family lives, knocking Huff off the ballot. Huff successfully appealed and the Pennsylvania Supreme Court said his residency had not been determined based on the totality of circumstances, sending the case back to Dumas for reconsideration.

This time, Dumas took a slew of factors into consideration, but the conclusion was the same.

Huffs utility bills, Dumas wrote, constitute the most telling evidence undermining his purported domicile, with electric bills ranging from $10.35 in May 2024 to a high of $50.90 that July. Gas bills were similarly negligible, she wrote, ranging from $2.86 last May to $28.69 in January.

Dumas was similarly not sold on neighbor testimonies, which she viewed with a degree of skepticism given the power dynamics inherent in a landlord-tenant relationship. Dumas said Huffs presence could simply demonstrate the activities any attentive landlord might perform and does not demonstrate any genuine residency.

Ultimately, Dumas said Huffs claims that he would stay in Philadelphia even if he lost his judicial races rang hollow, emphasizing his deep-rooted memories and community connections in Bala Cynwyd.

Huff appealed that decision last week, further delaying mail ballots that commissioners had been ready to send more than two weeks ago. Those ballots finally went out this week as Philadelphia City Commissioners faced a statutory deadline Tuesday.
City Solicitor Renee Garcia, seen in this April photo, said Tuesday that the city is prepared to litigate, if necessary, against the Trump administration's sanctuary city executive order. Read more

An official from Mayor Cherelle L. Parkers administration said Tuesday that they are prepared to go to court if federal authorities identify Philadelphia as a so-called sanctuary city and decide to revoke its federal funding under a new executive order signed by President Donald Trump.

City Solicitor Renee Garcia on Tuesday offered City Council the Parker administrations most articulated position thus far on the presidents April 28 executive order that will create a list of sanctuary jurisdictions the Trump administration believes subvert federal immigration law. The metrics for how officials are determining impacted jurisdictions remain unknown, and it is unclear whether Philadelphia will be targeted.

Advertisement

 READ MORE: Trump administration formally names Philly, other local jurisdictions as impeding federal immigration enforcement

According to the order, the listed jurisdictions will be notified of their status and, if they maintain their sanctuary policy, could face federal funding cuts or legal action.

If we have to litigate, then well do that, Garcia said during the Council budget hearing with city legal department officials. She expects other national lawsuits to unfold once the list is published.

Philadelphia received $2.2 billion in federal funding in the 2024 fiscal year, with the majority of funds going towards health and social services programs.

 READ MORE: What to know about Trumps executive order on sanctuary cities that could target Philadelphia

Garcia said the law will be on the citys side if Philadelphia is targeted, noting that the city litigated a similar issue during Trumps first term and a judge ruled that the president cannot revoke Philadelphias funding for its sanctuary policies. District Attorney Larry Krasner and Chief Defender Keisha Hudson, who also testified during the Council budget hearing Tuesday, signaled a willingness to protect Philadelphias immigrant communities from any potential illegal activity that could result from Trumps identification of sanctuary cities.

Krasner, who has become one of the Trump administrations most vocal opponents on the local level and is campaigning for a third term in office on that platform, said he would not comment on the Parker administrations approach to defending these potential attacks from Trump, but promised he would be up to the task if federal authorities break the law.

He breaks laws in Philly, hes gonna find out.

Attorney General Pam Bondi is expected to issue letters to sanctuary jurisdictions within the month, according to Trumps executive order. Garcia argued Tuesday that she rejects the term sanctuary to describe the city, saying that it inaccurately labels Philadelphia as a city illegally harboring migrants or undocumented people. Some city officials have opted to use the term welcoming city in recent months.

Philadelphia is considered one of the strongest so-called sanctuary cities, for various reasons including the citys policy to not comply with ICE detainer requests, only judicial warrants, Garcia said Tuesday. This policy is supported by a 2016 executive order from former Mayor Jim Kenney.

We are backed up by Third Circuit case law in that respect, she said of the citys noncompliance with ICE detainers. So we believe that we are following the law. We know that we are following the law.

During the hearing Tuesday, the citys definition of detainment briefly came into question when discussing an incident that occurred last month at Philadelphias criminal courthouse when a Philadelphia police officer escorted a Dominican man, who just had criminal charges against him dismissed, into the custody of federal immigration authorities.

Garcia and Hudson had conflicting perceptions of the incident, with the solicitor saying Tuesday that the man was not detained by police and instead walked down while police offered translation services.

Hudson pushed back and said the man was told by the sheriffs deputies that ICE was waiting for him and was then escorted out of court by a police officer who provided translation services. The mans public defender, who had other matters before the court, did not go with him and therefore did not see a warrant.

We are all lawyers up here. That was a detention, Hudson said.

Hudson said the association is telling its clients to be prepared at any time for possible detentions.

If Philadelphia is targeted by the Trump administration, Garcia said the city will have time to respond, and expects Parker will have many conversations and follow her diplomatic procedure as she does.

The mayor has pivoted away from offering plentiful responses when asked about threats to Philadelphias status. When Trump signed the executive order last month, Parker reaffirmed the citys compliance with Kenneys 2016 order, then switched gears to say she was focused on her own agenda.

The legal road is long, but the courts have really been stepping up to protect the rule of law, Garcia added.
On the left side of the rendering the huge blank wall of the garage facing Titan Street can be seen. Read more

The 1,005-unit parking garage that Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia is proposing in Grays Ferry was roundly criticized by city planners, design experts, and local residents Tuesday at the Civic Design Review committee.

Its just hard to cotton that this extremely wealthy, extremely well-positioned institution has decided that 1,000 cars should go off campus  and contribute to all the negative impacts of traffic to that neighborhood, said Dan Garofalo, vice chair of the CDR committee.

Advertisement

All the public testimony and written responses opposed the project at 3000 Grays Ferry Ave. The advisory committee exercised the only concrete power it has, which is asking CHOP to consider the feedback and return for a second review.

CHOP acquired the site in 2024 for almost $25 million. Garofalo estimated it would cost up to $100 million to build. In April, CHOP declined to share its construction cost estimate with The Inquirer. Workers would take a shuttle to and from the 350,000-square-foot parking garage, which is about a mile from the main campus.

The project requires no zoning variances or any other hurdles that would offer community groups and other critics leverage to push back against the project.

That did not stop them from criticizing it, especially in light of a 2023 Planning Commission report that showed existing University City parking capacity isnt even three-quarters utilized.

You are acting as if SEPTA doesnt exist, said Will Tung, an organizer with 5th Square, an urbanist advocacy group. This 1,000-unit parking garage looks like something that would be built in King of Prussia, a suburban location where theres absolutely no transit.

CHOP plans to add street trees and a plaza area on Grays Ferry Avenue as a buffer to the garage, although Garofalo said the attempt to create public space in the shadow of the garage was like a parody of an attractive place, like a Monty Python routine about a plaza.

CHOP responded to the barrage of criticism by noting the institutions robust transit benefits program and its investment in bike infrastructure. Although 22% of their workers commute via transit, the majority drive.

Our employees draw from a five-county region, they draw from South Jersey, they come from places where public transportation just isnt accessible, said Peter M. Grollman, CHOPs senior vice president of external affairs.

Grollman said he would meet with 5th Square on Friday. CHOP has met with neighborhood groups in the Grays Ferry area and signed a community benefit agreement with them that includes funds for the organizations and for the neighboring park.

The community groups CHOP has been meeting with did not attend the CDR meeting, but a neighbor whose house will be in the garages shadow did.

This is a very unattractive building, and its unfortunate that were facing such an ugly wall on Titan Street, said Melissa Freeman, who lives across the street from the garage site.

She specifically criticized the huge blank wall that will face her home and dismissed the idea that it could be made less offensive by a mural.

Freeman also noted that neighbors will have their own street parking disrupted both by construction and the curb cuts that will serve the garage when its completed.
A rendering of the developers' master plan for the Navy Yard. Read more

Gov. Josh Shapiros administration has awarded a $30 million grant to the companies behind the redevelopment of the South Philadelphia Navy Yard to support up to 700,000 square feet of new life sciences and manufacturing facilities, officials said Tuesday.

Ensemble Real Estate Investments, of Long Beach, Calif., and Philadelphia-based Mosaic Development Partners will use the money for roadway and utilities, soil excavation, grading, and stormwater management on a 54-acre section of the Navy Yard known as the Greenway District, according to Shapiros office.

Advertisement

The Navy Yard was one of 11 projects across Pennsylvania that won approval for a total of $64 million in grants and loans in the first round of funding under Shapiros PA SITES program, which seeks to support the development of shovel-ready sites for businesses.

The Philadelphia project is part of a Navy Yard plan that envisions 8.9 million square feet of new commercial and adaptive redevelopment across 109 acres over the next two decades. The yard is expected to attract $6 billion in investment over that time period, according to the 2022 plan.

The Navy Yard is experiencing a tremendous amount of momentum today that has built on all our previous work surrounding infrastructure, business attraction and retention, and really great sustainability development and incredible design, said Mark Seltzer, managing director at Ensemble.

That has resulted in demand for large-scale advanced manufacturing and life sciences buildings, he said, but there are only a handful of remaining pad-ready sites to accommodate prospective tenants.

Seltzer said the state money would help jump-start the next phase of development at the eastern end of the yard. These funds make it a really attractive, marketable site for a new tenant coming in, he said.

Ensemble and Mosaic were selected in 2020 by Philadelphia Industrial Development Corp.  the citys public-private economic development entity  to lead the continued redevelopment of the former Philadelphia Naval Base, which closed in the 1990s. Its been owned by the city since 2000.

Today the Navy Yard is home to 150 employers including Urban Outfitters corporate headquarters, Jefferson Health, and tech start-ups. The yards first private-sector housing is expected to open in the fall.

Shapiro, a first-term Democrat, said in a statement that sites like the Greenway District are key to growing our economy, creating more jobs and thriving communities, and helping Pennsylvania compete  and win.

In the budget that passed last summer, the state legislature authorized borrowing $400 million for the PA SITES initiative and another $100 million for additional site development efforts.

The administration said it received 66 applications in the first funding round. The state Department of Community and Economic Development is continuing to accept applications and will award funds on a rolling basis, the administration said.

The PA SITES program won bipartisan support in the General Assembly  the top House Republican, Rep. Jesse Topper, celebrated a $2.8 million grant announced Tuesday for a business park in his Bedford County district  but has drawn criticism from some Harrisburg observers.

The right-leaning Commonwealth Foundation, a think tank, has dismissed the program as corporate welfare.

Rather than ineffective targeted handouts, Pennsylvanias economic development strategy should focus on broad-based tax and regulatory reform, the group said last year.
City Council members questioned Mayor Cherelle L. Parkers plans to pay for her new housing initiative, and whether it will benefit the Philadelphians who most need help, during an at-times tense city budget hearing on Wednesday that revealed political fault lines around Parkers top priority for her second year in office.

Advertisement

Some members, including Council President Kenyatta Johnson, questioned whether it was prudent for the city to take on $800 million in debt to pay for Parkers Housing Opportunities Made Easy, or H.O.M.E., program. The progressive faction in Council, meanwhile, supported the administrations spending goals  but raised concerns about whether Parkers policy was calibrated to reach families facing housing insecurity.

 READ MORE: Heres how Mayor Parker plans to spend $800 million on housing

Wednesdays hearing was notably more fraught than Councils initial public vetting of the housing proposal two weeks ago, in which members largely applauded the mayors focus on housing but pressed for more details.

Parkers chief of staff, Tiffany W. Thurman, clashed with multiple members Wednesday while insisting that Council needed to act quickly to assuage the citys longstanding affordability crisis. She noted that federal cuts from President Donald Trumps administration were spurring many cities to increase local housing spending.

This is a bold investment, but Philadelphia is not alone, Thurman said in her opening remarks. In this uncertain fiscal environment, other major cities such as Chicago, Baltimore, Columbus, Atlanta, Austin, Kansas City, and San Antonio are issuing bonds to pay for essential housing investments and programs as well.

 READ MORE: Mayor Cherelle Parker pitches her $6.7 billion budget plan as Trumps grave threat to cut aid to cities looms

Parker has asked Council to consider the H.O.M.E. legislation alongside her city budget proposal, which must be approved by the end of June.

Is H.O.M.E the fiscally responsible thing to do?

Johnson opened the hearing by pressing Parker administration officials on the mayors plan to borrow $800 million. He highlighted the cost of interest payments to repay the 20-year bonds, saying he wants to make sure the city is being fiscally sound.

My son is 10 now, so hell be 30, probably with kids attending public schools around that time, utilizing city services, Johnson said. As were addressing this housing crisis, we want to make sure that in terms of kicking the can down the road  thats not what were doing, right?

 READ MORE: Mayor Cherelle Parkers housing plan relies on $800 million in bonds. Heres what you need to know about Phillys city debt.

The administration is asking Council to approve two borrowings: $400 million this fall and another $400 million in 2027. Finance Director Rob Dubow told Johnson the city would pay $25 million per year on average in interest to pay for the bonds, a total of about $500 million over two decades.

Johnson was not alone in raising questions about Parkers bond plans. Multiple members told The Inquirer that they were concerned the administration is saddling future taxpayers with too much debt.

City bonds are typically tax-exempt, meaning investors that buy municipal debt do not have to pay federal income taxes on the proceeds. But Parker wants to issue taxable bonds, which increases borrowing cost for city taxpayers and foregoes taking advantage of one of the most attractive aspects of municipal bonds for investors.

To qualify for the federal tax exemption, bonds must primarily benefit the public, not private sector actors. The administration has said it needs to issue taxable bonds for the H.O.M.E. initiative because much of it involves transferring city-owned land to private developers to build housing.

Councilmember Jeffery Jay Young Jr. questioned why the city cant separate the $800 million into two tranches: a taxable bond issuance for the amount of money that will be used for deals involving private developers, and a tax-exempt issuance for government housing programs.

Dubow said that the city needs the flexibility to shift money between programs and does not want to have its hands tied or run afoul of tax exemption rules.

I hear that answer, and its an answer, Young said. I think that we are creative enough to figure out what exact amount we need for the taxable bonds where we wont have to try to move things back and forth.

Is H.O.M.E being spent in the right places?

Councilmember Jamie Gauthier questioned the administrations proposal to greatly increase the income threshold for applicants to the citys popular basic Systems Repair Program, or BSRP, which helps low-income homeowners afford home repairs.

Philadelphia has an unusually high rate of homeownership among lower-income and working-class households, and the program is designed to help those families. It currently supports residents who make at most 60% of the area median income, or $71,650 for a family of four. It has a lengthy wait list: Last year 10,000 households tried to sign up for the program and were unable to access it.

But Parker wants to increase the eligibility limit to 100% of AMI, or $119,000 for a family of four.

Gauthier, who represents parts of West Philadelphia, noted that expanding eligibility for the program without adding a commensurate increase in funding would likely mean fewer of the neediest families will be able to access it.

Fiscal responsibility is more than just about accounting, Gauthier said. Its also using your resources to make the biggest impact, and using your resources where they are most needed.

Parker has long said she does not want to pit the have-nots against those who just have a little more, meaning that working-class families should benefit from government programs, and not just the most disadvantaged. Gauthier commended that goal, but asked if there was a more subtle way to expand the program that would not open it to homeowners who can afford repairs on their own.

Parkers chief of staff took umbrage at that line of questioning.

To suggest that we havent done our homework and havent thought about those eligibility requirements, that were unfurling them to anyone and everyone that applies, is very irresponsible, Thurman replied.

Gauthier, along with fellow progressive Councilmembers Nicholas ORourke and Rue Landau, emphasized that they agreed with Parkers $800 million bond ask, but suggested that it could be better targeted and that the administration was trying to rush its proposal.

It demonstrates that we can do big things [but] also a bond is a very expensive investment and it behooves us to ensure that it pays off, said ORourke, a member of the Working Families Party. Im really concerned that the plan is spread so thin among 38 different programs.  Wouldnt it make more sense for us to have a robust engagement process to decide how best to focus funding?
The driver himself, hes devastated, he said. His truck has been parked since the accident  an investigation could take three to four weeks. [He] will probably get a fine, but it will have to go to court.
India launched coordinated strikes on nine locations in Pakistan late Tuesday, in what it described as a targeted military operation aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure believed to be responsible for the April 22 massacre in Indian-administered Kashmir that left 26 civilians dead. Among those killed were predominantly Indian tourists, along with at least one Nepalese national. Delhi has pointed the finger squarely at Pakistan, claiming the attackers had ties to cross-border militant networks - a claim Islamabad denies.
WFI is delighted to support this fantastic initiative which elevates the awareness of food security challenges and the importance of the cattle industry for so many people and communities. We also see this as a unique opportunity to engage with schools and agricultural communities along the route about how to reduce risks and improve safety on farms, he said.
Guild Insurances growth

Established in 1963 to serve Australias pharmacy sector, Guild Insurance has grown to underwrite various lines including workers compensation, travel, home and contents, and pet insurance under the Vets Choice brand launched in 2019. The company operates under the Guild Group umbrella, owned by the Pharmacy Guild of Australia. The broader group also includes Meridian Lawyers, Gold Cross (a pharmacy endorsement program), Acerta, and Guild Solutions Inc.
Hubs acquisition activity has included both employee benefits and property and casualty insurance businesses across North America. The firm has made several purchases in 2024 and 2025, further reinforcing its position as one of the most active consolidators in the insurance brokerage space. Many of these deals are designed to expand geographic reach, deepen service capabilities, or strengthen its position in industry verticals such as healthcare, education, and non-profits.
J. Patrick Gallagher, Jr., chairman and CEO of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., said the acquisition strengthens the firms small group benefits capabilities and welcomed the addition of Casey and his team to the organization.
Shuman, who brings over 20 years of experience in the insurance and financial services sectors, will lead the companys marketing strategy to strengthen its brand and market presence. Before joining AmTrust, Shuman was the chief digital officer at The Hartford, where he led digital initiative across all business lines.
Full-year and Q2 2025 outlook

Looking ahead, the company said it expects revenue for the second quarter to be $157 million to $159 million, with an adjusted EBITDA loss of between $41 million and $44 million. IFP for the quarter is projected to be about $1.061 billion to $1.064 billion.
When Lammons later attempted to collect against EDCOs surety bond - a contractors bond required by the City of Crown Point - the insurance company told her it couldnt act unless the city inspected the boiler. However, the city refused to inspect the work because no permit had been pulled at the time of installation. According to the building inspector, a permit was required for upgrades to high-efficiency systems, though the citys ordinance was vague on the matter. Caught in this procedural catch-22, Lammons had nowhere else to turn.
Balancing speed with risk

But faster doesnt always mean safer. While digital self-service is appealing, Iten emphasizes that too much automation could expose agencies to serious risks - especially in high-stakes markets like Florida. Agencies want to focus on their underwriting process, he said. If you open that up too much, it might lead into situations where agencies could have large E&O problems.
Rite Aid is again seeking bankruptcy protection as the struggling drugstore chain says it will try to sell substantially all of its assets.

The company said Monday that its stores will remain open as it returns to Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings.

The company said it will work to ensure that customer prescriptions are transferred to other pharmacies as it goes through the sale process. The drugstore chain has lined up from some of its lenders $1.94 billion in new financing which help fund it through the sale and bankruptcy proceedings.

The company initially filed for bankruptcy protection in October 2023, with plans to sell parts of its business and restructure. The company ran more than 2,300 stores in 17 states before the filing.

Rite Aid said then that its initial voluntary Chapter 11 filing would allow it to slash debt and resolve litigation. The company sold its relatively small pharmacy benefits management business, Elixir Solutions, for around $576 million.

Rite Aid emerged from Chapter 11 nearly a year later as a private company. The drugstore chain said in a statement that it came out of the process stronger, with a rightsized store footprint, more efficient operating model, significantly less debt and additional financial resources.

Rite Aids creditors took ownership of the chain, which shrank to 1,245 stores in 15 states, according to its website.

A spokeswoman said in March that the company was laser focused on its retail pharmacies, including restocking its stores.

But in early May, empty white shelves dotted a store that sits a few miles from Rite Aids corporate headquarters in Philadelphia. The only rolls of wrapping paper in the store were some Christmas-themed offerings that leaned next to empty shelf space beneath a sign advertising Great Value!

The location also had a limited selection of profitable beauty products and drugstore staples such as Qtips and cotton balls.

Retail analyst Neil Saunders said such a look encourages shoppers not to return.

Theyre actively pushing customers away, said Saunders, managing director of the consulting and data analysis firm GlobalData.

Rite Aid was attempting to turn around its business in a tough environment for drugstores. Major chains and independent pharmacies have been closing stores and struggling with several challenges.

Prescription profitability has grown tight. The chains also are dealing with increased theft, court settlements over opioid prescriptions and shoppers who are drifting more to online shopping and discount retailers.

Walgreens, which has more than six times as many stores as Rite Aid, agreed in March to be acquired by the private equity firm Sycamore Partners.

Philadelphia-based Rite Aid was founded in 1962 in Scranton, Pennsylvania, as Thrif D Discount Center. The company had struggled with debt, posted annual losses for several years and was cutting costs and closing stores well before its initial bankruptcy filing.

Rite Aid also explored sale offers.

Walgreens attempted to buy it for about $9.4 billion a decade ago, when Rite Aid ran more than 4,600 stores. But the larger drugstore chain eventually scaled back its ambition and bought less than half that total to get the deal past antitrust regulators.

In 2018, Rite Aid called off a separate merger with the grocer Albertsons.

Jonathan Poet contributed to this report from Philadelphia.

____

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Science and Educational Media Group. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Indian Air Force to hold war games along border with Pakistan

Xinhua) 11:00, May 07, 2025

NEW DELHI, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Amid escalating tensions, the Indian Air Force (IAF) will hold large-scale military drills on Wednesday in the western state of Rajasthan, along the international border with Pakistan, local media reports said Tuesday.

"The drills will begin at 9:30 p.m. (local time) on Wednesday and end around five-and-a-half hours later. Flights departing or landing at the airport close to the border will be suspended," a New Delhi-based television news channel NDTV said, quoting a NOTAM, or Notice to Airmen, issued Tuesday evening.

Another media report said a two-day mega military exercise will involve all the frontline fighter jets, including Rafale, Su-30 and Jaguar aircraft.

Separately, states are scheduled to conduct mock drills on Wednesday to evaluate civil defence preparedness. Officials said a civil defence exercise and rehearsal across the 244 categorized civil defence districts will be organised.

According to state-run broadcaster All India Radio (AIR), the mock drill will assess the effectiveness of air raid warning systems, the operationalization of hotline or radio communication links with the IAF, besides testing the functionality of control rooms.

"The exercise also includes training of civilians and students on civil defence aspects to protect themselves in the event of a hostile attack. Besides the provision of crash blackout measures, provision for early camouflaging of vital installations and update of the evacuation plan and its rehearsal are also included in the mock drill," the broadcaster said.

The war games are being conducted amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan over last month's attack in which gunmen killed 26 people in Baisaran area of Pahalgam town, about 89 km east of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir.

New Delhi blames Islamabad for supporting the gunmen behind the attack, a charge denied by it.

The Indian government on Wednesday confirmed carrying out air strikes on nine identified "terrorist-training camps" located in the Pakistan-controlled Kashmir.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally monitored the air strikes, according to Indian media reports.

The air strikes were carried out under "Operation Sindoor," which was dedicated to the women whose husbands were killed in the Pahalgam area of the Indian-controlled Kashmir on April 22, the reports said.

"Altogether nine sites have been targeted. Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India had demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution," India's Ministry of Defence said in a press release.

The director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations, the media wing of the Pakistan Army, said that at least eight civilians, including a child, were killed, 35 others injured and two missing after India fired missiles at multiple locations in the Pakistan-controlled Kashmir.

Pakistan has shot down five Indian fighter jets in retaliation for overnight airstrikes conducted by India at multiple locations within Pakistan, the country's defence minister said early Wednesday.

Pakistan's foreign office called it an unprovoked and blatant act of aggression, denouncing the strikes as a "flagrant violation of the UN charter, international law, and established norms of inter-state relations."

"India's reckless action has brought the two nuclear-armed states closer to a major conflict," said the foreign office, emphasizing that Pakistan reserves the right to respond "at a time and place of its choosing."

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
Columbia University and New York-Presbyterian hospitals will pay $750 million to patients who sued over being sexually abused by a former gynecologist who was convicted of sex crimes in 2023.

The settlement was achieved on behalf of 576 former patients at the New York hospitals where Dr. Robert Hadden abused patients over two decades.

A New York Supreme Court approved the settlement on Monday. according to Anthony T. DiPietro, attorney for the women who brought claims.

This victory is not just for the victims and survivors of Columbia University and The New York- Presbyterian Hospitals cover-up who bravely came forward, but for all of us who entrust medical institutions with our healthcare, said DiPietro.

The $750 million settlement brings the total relating to claims against Hadden to more than $1 billion. There have been earlier settlements of $200 million, $71.5 million and $165 million, Also in January 2024, Columbia University created a $100 million fund for survivors that is still receiving claims.

The claims were filed under the New York State Adult Survivors Act that extended the statute of limitations for civil for allegations that would have been time-barred.

Hadden was convicted of federal sexual assault charges in January 2023 and sentenced to 20 years in prison last July.

DiPietro said his firm is currently pursuing cases involving hundreds of men and boys who were allegedly exploited by a urologist, Darius Paduch, who also practiced at New York-Presbyterian Hospital, the Weill Cornell Medical Center, and in the Northwell Health System. Paduch was convicted last March of unlawful sexual activity and sentenced to life in prison in November.

Topics New York
Thousands of rail passengers in Spain were hit with delays after copper cables used in the signaling system of a high-speed line traveling south from Madrid to Seville were stolen at five locations, authorities said Monday.

The theft, which happened late Sunday, affected dozens of trains traveling between Madrid and the southern Andalusian cities of Seville, Malaga and Granada as many people were returning home to Spains capital after a holiday weekend.

Copper prices are high on global markets, meaning criminals stand to collect big sums of cash from selling the material.

Transport Minister Oscar Puente said in an X post that he expected the rail line would fully return to its normal schedule between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. local time (1200 GMT and 1400 GMT).

Droves of travelers crowded Madrids Atocha station Monday seeking information about their trains from rail employees and screens with updated departure times.

By 9 a.m, Alberto Valero and his family had spent hours at the station because of delays on services to Seville, where they were headed. Valero was on vacation in Spain from Mexico, and expressed frustration about the lack of information.

Were here with tourists from everywhere  France, Portugal, Valero said. Everyone is at a loss for what to do because of the total disarray.

The cable theft took place at five points on the high-speed line in Toledo in central Spain, Puente said on X, adding that Spains national police force was investigating the incident.

Spains high-speed rail network has expanded rapidly and travels through large stretches of the countrys little-populated countryside.

The incident came a week after a blackout in Spain and Portugal grounded high-speed train traffic in Spain to a halt, stranding many passengers for several hours.

Photograph: Travelers wait for news about their delayed trains at the Madrid train station, Spain, Monday, May 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)

Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Fraud
Airlines including United Airlines and Korean Air re-routed or canceled flights and about a dozen Indian airports were shut on Wednesday after India struck nine sites in Pakistan, raising fears of an escalation.

India attacked Pakistani Kashmir and Pakistan said it had shot down five Indian fighter jets in the flare-up, which followed an attack by Islamist militants that killed 26 people in Indian Kashmir last month. India said it hit terrorist infrastructure related to the tourist killings. Pakistan rejects that it has such camps on its territory.

Images from flight tracking websites showed a long line of airlines passing over Oman, UAE and Kuwait after the attack, raising the possibility of airspace congestion.

Authorities in Pakistan said 57 international flights were in the countrys airspace when India struck. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharifs office said Indias action caused grave danger to commercial airlines belonging to Gulf countries and endangered lives.

Indias civil aviation ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Pakistans remarks.

In the last few days, India and Pakistan had shut their airspaces to each others airlines. Global airlines like Lufthansa have also been avoiding Pakistans airspace.

If the conflict continues, there is a chance that Pakistan could impose a full airspace closure, as they did from Feb. to Aug. 2019 under similar circumstances, aviation advisory body OPSGROUP said in a blog post published Wednesday.

Domestic flights in both countries were also disrupted. Three percent of scheduled flights in India and 17% of scheduled flights in Pakistan were canceled as of 1030 GMT, according to Flightradar24.

Indias top airline IndiGo said it was canceling 165 flights till Saturday morning. Its shares were down 1.1%. Flights belonging to Air India, SpiceJet and Akasa Air were also canceled.

Pakistan said its airspace was open following closure after the attacks and that its airports were fully functional.

Images from FlightRadar24 showed some civilian jets flying over Pakistan airspace but Indias northwest continued to be deserted.

GPS Spoofing Concern

The changing airline schedules are set to further complicate operations in the Middle East and South Asia regions for carriers, which are already grappling with the fallout from conflicts in the two regions.

A spokesperson for Dutch airline KLM said it was not flying over Pakistan until further notice. Singapore Airlines said it had stopped flying over Pakistani airspace since May 6.

Korean Air 003490.KS said it had begun rerouting its Seoul IncheonDubai flights on Wednesday, opting for a southern route that passes over Myanmar, Bangladesh, and India, instead of the previous path through Pakistani airspace.

United Airlines said it had canceled its flight to Delhi, citing in part airspace limitations. The U.S. airline operates one direct flight from Newark to New Delhi.

American Airlines said it made adjustments to its operations to New Delhi and would allow customers impacted by the changes to change their plans without charge.

Thai Airways said flights to destinations in Europe and South Asia would be rerouted starting early on Wednesday morning, while Taiwans China Airlines said flights to and from destinations including London, Frankfurt and Rome had been disrupted.

Flights from India to Europe were also seen taking longer routes. Lufthansa flight LH761 from Delhi to Frankfurt took about half an hour more to reach its destination compared to Tuesday, according to FlightRadar24.

The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines voiced concern over the impact of conflicts on airline operations.

Apart from cost and operational disruption, there are safety concerns as GPS spoofing interfering with flight operations over conflict zones is one of the highest risks the industry faces, it said in a statement.

GPS spoofing is a malicious technique that manipulates Global Positioning System (GPS) data, which can send commercial airliners off course.

(Reporting by Ben Blanchard, Abhijith Ganapavaram, Dan Catchpole and Ariba Shahid; additional reporting by Joanna Plucinska in London, Jin Hyun Joo in Seoul, Khanh Vu in Hanoi, Bart Meijer, Shivansh Tiwary and Jun Yuan Yong; editing by Michael Perry, Raju Gopalakrishnan and Philippa Fletcher)
A proposed carbon-capture pipeline that would traverse through several Midwestern states could face more hurdles in Iowa as a dozen Republican state senators try to force the issue to a vote.

Summit Carbon Solutions already will likely have to readjust plans for their estimated $8.9 billion, 2,500-mile (4,023-kilometer) project after South Dakotas governor signed a ban on the use of eminent domain  the government seizure of private property with compensation  to acquire land for carbon dioxide pipelines.

Now, after several proposals advanced through the Republican-controlled Iowa House, 12 GOP state senators have told their Republican leaders that they will not vote on any budget, which the Legislature is constitutionally required to approve, until they bring a pipeline bill to the floor.

The people of South Dakota emphatically stated that eminent domain will never be granted for this pipeline to cross South Dakota, and it is past time for lowa to do the same, the senators wrote in a joint letter, saying they believe addressing eminent domain is more important than the budget or any other priority for the 2025 session.

Its unclear if the demands will be met or what a measure that passes the full chamber would look like, given the wide range of views on the issue among the 34 Senate Republicans, who hold a supermajority in the chamber.

The proposed 2,500-mile pipeline would carry carbon emissions from ethanol plants in Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota to be stored underground permanently in North Dakota.

By lowering carbon emissions from the plants, the pipeline would lower their carbon intensity scores and make them more competitive in the renewable fuels market. The project would also allow ethanol producers and Summit to tap into federal tax credits.

The project received permit approvals in Iowa, Minnesota and North Dakota, but it does face various court challenges, and its application was rejected in South Dakota last month.

Summit Carbon Solutions has invested four years and nearly $175 million on voluntary agreements in Iowa, signing agreements with more than 1,300 landowners and securing 75% of the Phase One route, Summit spokesperson Sabrina Zenor said in a statement. We are committed to building this project, committed to Iowa, and remain focused on working with legislators  including those with concerns.

Some Midwest farmers, despite loyalty to the ethanol industry, have voiced strong opposition to the pipeline since its inception, objecting to its presence on or near their land and questioning the safety of having the pipeline in their backyards.

Then, a slew of eminent domain legal actions in South Dakota to obtain land provoked a groundswell of opposition in the state, sending the issue to the governors desk. Lee Enterprises and The Associated Press reviewed hundreds of cases, revealing the great legal lengths the company went to get the project built.

Iowa state Sen. Kevin Alons said the senators who are forcing the issue want an amendment to the bill that mimics South Dakotas new law, but it remains to be seen what provisions, if any, would be included in a final version or whether Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds would give it her signature.

A number of Republican Senators are working on policy surrounding eminent domain and pipeline issues and I am optimistic we will find a legislative solution, Senate Majority Leader Jack Whitver said in a statement.

The Iowa House has sent several proposals to the Senate. During debate on the House floor, state Rep. Steven Holt expressed plenty of disappointment that the Senate had not taken up the issue in the past.

Regardless of whether the Senates gonna pass it or not, were going to fight for it here because its the right thing to do, Holt said.

You chose to try to trample on the rights of citizens of Iowa and South Dakota, he added of Summit, and now the chickens are coming home to roost.

___

Associated Press reporters Jack Dura in Bismarck, North Dakota, and Sarah Raza in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, contributed to this report.

Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Alphabet Inc.s Google should be forced to sell off two of its businesses that help websites buy, sell and serve online advertising after a judge found the company illegally monopolized those markets, the Justice Department said.

The company should be ordered to immediately sell off its advertising exchange, AdX, followed by a phased divestiture of the service that helps websites sell display advertising, known as a publisher ad server, the agency said in a court filing late Monday.

A comprehensive set of remedies  including divestiture of Googles unlawfully obtained monopolies and the products that were the principal instruments of Googles illegal scheme  is necessary to terminate Googles monopolies, the agency said in its filing.

Google didnt have an immediate comment on the DOJs proposal. In its own filing late Monday, Google proposed making its advertising exchange work seamlessly with rival technology and installing a monitor to ensure compliance for the next three years. The company said its proposal would alleviate any alleged harm and that a divestiture like the one proposed by the government isnt available as a remedy in this type of case.

The Justice Departments request isnt a surprise; the agency has said since 2023 when it first sued Google for monopolization that it would seek a sale of the products.

Separately, the Justice Department is seeking to force the Alphabet unit to divest its popular Chrome web browser in another case over the companys illegal monopolization of online search.

An ad server helps web publishers manage their advertising, acting as the brain for the website by keeping track of the minimum bids a publisher is willing to accept, what has been sold and for how much. Ad exchanges control the auctions that match website publishers with advertisers; Google operates the largest exchange.

Antitrust enforcers alleged that Google gave special access and privileges to its own ad products to encourage both advertisers and websites to spend only through its services.

US District Judge Leonie Brinkema in Alexandria, Virginia, has scheduled a hearing for September to hear arguments from the Justice Department and Google on the proposed remedy. Last month, Brinkema ruled that Google violated antitrust law in the markets for advertising exchanges and tools used by websites to sell ad space, known as ad servers.

Photo: Google headquarters in Mountain View, California. Photographer: Marlena Sloss/Bloomberg

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.

Topics USA Tech
Berkshire Hathaway shareholders on May 3 rejected a resolution requiring the company to report on risks from its subsidiaries race-based initiatives, one of seven proposals tied to diversity, artificial intelligence and other issues that were voted down.

Shareholders also voted against a resolution that Berkshire report on how its business practices affect employees based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin and political views.

Also voted down were proposals requiring Berkshires board of directors to create a committee to oversee diversity and inclusion, having independent directors oversee AI-related risks, and requiring a report on voluntary environmental activities that exceed federal and state requirements.

The votes were announced after Buffett unexpectedly announced he planned to step down as Berkshire chief executive at the end of the year.

He will be replaced by Vice Chairman Greg Abel, who presided over the reading of the shareholder proposals.

Buffett, who controls about 30% of Berkshires voting power, and the other Berkshire directors opposed all seven proposals, finding them unnecessary and in some instances inconsistent with the companys decentralized culture.

The board also said Berkshires operating companies set their own policies concerning race and other employment factors, and that Berkshires overall approach was simplefollow the law and do the right thing.

Businesses across corporate America have curbed public support or initiatives for diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, as conservatives including U.S. President Donald Trump push to curb DEI in the private sector and society, as well as in the federal government.

Berkshire has discussed generally in its annual reports the hiring practices of its operating businesses. In its latest report in February, it removed a reference to diversity and inclusion in the workforce as a hiring goal.

At Saturdays meeting, Berkshire shareholders also reelected all directors who were eligible, including Buffett and Abel.

Topics InsurTech Data Driven Artificial Intelligence
A federal jury in California has ordered Israeli firm NSO Group to pay more than $167 million in punitive damages to Meta Platforms for installing malware on its WhatsApp messaging app six years ago.

Spyware vendor NSO Group must pay about $167.3 million in punitive damages and $440,000 in compensatory damages to WhatsApp after a jury trial to determine the amount NSO should pay. Meta in December 2024 received a judges ruling that NSO, with its Pegasus software, hacked and surveilled around 1,4000 WhatsApp users without authorization.

WhatsApp originally filed a lawsuit against NSO in 2019.

In a blog post, WhatsApp said the case made history as the first victory against illegal spyware that threatens the safety and privacy of everyone.

The jurys decision to force NSO, a notorious foreign spyware merchant, to pay damages is a critical deterrent to this malicious industry against their illegal acts aimed at American companies and the privacy and security of the people we serve, WhatsApp said.

NSO has argued that its software assists law enforcement and intelligence agencies fighting crime and protecting national security.

Related: US Court Rejects Israeli Firms Immunity From Facebook Suit Over Malware

WhatsApp said in the blogwhich includes deposition videos of NSO executivesthat its engineers six years ago detected the Pegasus spyware used to target its users, including human rights activists, journalists, diplomats and others in civil society.

Put simply, NSOs Pegasus works to covertly compromise peoples phones with spyware capable of hoovering up information from any app installed on the device, WhatsApp said. Think anything from financial and location information to emails and text messages, or as NSO conceded: every kind of user data on the phone. It can even remotely activate the phones mic and camera  all without peoples knowledge, let alone authorization.

WhatsApp said it will seek a court order to prevent NSO from ever targeting it. The Meta company said it has a long road ahead to collect awarded damages.

Topics Cyber
Florida lawmakers late last week gave final approval to a long-debated condominium bill, one designed to give condo owners a little relief on the high cost of bringing structures up to code.

But the final version of the bill seems to have divided the condo insurance community. Some in the industry now worry that House Bill 913 went too far and may have inadvertently given owners options that could thwart spending on repairs or allow buildings to be undervalued and underinsured.

It has to be a mistake. Its the exact opposite of what was intended, it seems to me, said Phil Masi, agency president of AssuredPartners, one of the largest writers of condo insurance in Florida.

The bill is the latest development to come out of the 2021 Surfside condo collapse that killed 98 people. In 2022, Florida lawmakers put strict new rules on condo associations, mandating regular inspections and upgrades, adequate reserve funding to pay for repairs, as well as limits on condo owners ability to veto needed spending.

But after an outcry from owners and associations that the cost of improving condo buildings was proving to be too much, too soon for some owners  and as some insurance carriers backed away from condos and premiums rose, the Legislature this year hashed out a number of changes.

HB 913, if signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis, will allow certain condo associations to fund their reserves through a loan or line of credit, will give residents greater flexibility to pause payments to their reserves while they prioritize needed repairs, extends the deadline by which associations have to complete structural integrity studies, and exempts some smaller buildings from having to do those analyses.

We have strived to reach that delicate balance between the safety of our constituents that live in condominiums, as well as understanding the incredible financial impact that sometimes these particular bills that we pass have, bill sponsor state Rep. Vicki Lopez, a Miami Republican, said, according to the Associated Press.

But Masi and others argue that some things were overlooked in the rush to complete the bill in the final days of the 2025 legislative session, and lawmakers may have to return to Tallahassee later this year to make revisions.

For starters, video conferencing: An earlier version of the bill would have limited condo video conference meetings to no more than twice a year. That language was removed in the final draft but the bill would still require that a quorum of board members be physically present at a meeting site.

If the annual meeting of the unit owners is conducted via video conference, a quorum of the members of the board of administration must be physically present at the physical location where unit owners can attend the meeting, the final, amended bill reads.

That could make it difficult or impossible to hold some board meetings, which could have the effect of postponing needed repairs, said Matt Mercier, national practice leader for CBIZ Insurance Services, which represents condo associations around the state. Many board members live out of state part of the year, making it tough for them to attend all meetings in person.

And if another pandemic hits, some people are going to be stuck out of state and cant attend in person, Mercier said.

Also, the final legislation removed the word must in key sections, giving condo associations options that could prove problematic, the brokers said.

On pages 16 and 17, for example, the bill requires that every condominium association shall have adequate property insurance as determined under this paragraph.

But the next sentence appears to upset the long-standing method for determining adequate insurance. The bill struck the wording that previously said replacement cost MUST be determined by an independent appraiser. The new wording notes that the replacement cost MAY be determined by an appraisal or by an update to a previous appraisal.

Does that mean either an appraisal or an update is acceptable under the law? Or does it mean the condo group may choose another valuation method altogether? Mercier and Masi argued it means the latter. Thats an issue because the appraisal process has been used for years and has proven to be a tried-and-true method.

It was a great law on that. There was nothing wrong with that, Mercier said.

Using other methods of determining cost may open a can of worms, encourage bad actors, and introduce significant disagreements on the amount of insurance coverage needed, they said.

Not sure who would argue for amending this language. I think it was just a mistake, Masi added. There is no upside to it and plenty of problems that can come with making this optional.

But others said the concerns are overblown. Mike Clarkson, managing director of Hilb Group of Florida, the insurance brokerage for some 1,200 condo associations, said the new language continues to require either an appraisal or an update to a previous appraisal.

You would still have to get an appraisal, Clarkson said.

But it may not matter, anyway, he said. Insurance carriers that write condos already require an appraisal. On top of that, they usually wont accept a value on a concrete structure of less than $170 per square foot, regardless of what an appraiser says.

Related: Clearwater Condo Building Evacuated After Support Beam Cracks

The next paragraph in the final bill version gives a loss-limit option and has raised its own concerns. The section notes that insurance requirements MAY be satisfied by obtaining enough to cover the probable maximum loss in a 250-year windstorm event. The probable loss would be determined through an accepted hurricane loss projection model.

That could mean that buildings could still be greatly underinsured, Masi argued. Condo leaders may think theyll be getting lower premiums with the lower coverage level, but they wont save much because most of the premiums are largely based on the first several million in value.

The final bill should have required the insured value on the structures to be based on an appraisal, then could have let condos purchase a lower limit  but only if the 250-year model allows for it. Drafters of the legislation may have worried that the original must wording would have required insuring everything to the appraised value limits, Masi suggested.

But there were other ways to amend that language and certainly they didnt need to mess with the appraisal option, which virtually everyone uses, he said.

State Sen. Jennifer Bradley shepherded the condo bill throughout the 60-day session. She and her staff could not be reached for comment on final version of the bill. But Travis Moore, a lobbyist and consultant who represents condo associations and who worked on the bill this year, said the language is not a mistake. The bill provides a balanced approach and options for struggling condo owners and associations.

We want them to have enough insurance, but not too much, Moore noted.

Besides, the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation is unlikely to approve policies that allow loss limits without covering the full value of the condo building. OIR is expected to provide some clarity on that in coming days, he said.

Top photo: The rubble of Champlain Towers South in 2021 (Amy Beth Bennett /South Florida Sun-Sentinel via AP)

Topics Florida
Local authorities Tuesday evening ordered the evacuation of a condominium building in Clearwater, Florida, after cracks developed in a concrete support beam in the parking garage.

The South Beach III condo building on Sand Key is currently being evacuated due to a support beam splitting, Pinellas County Commissioner Chris Latvala posted to social media late Tuesday.

About 60 residents were ordered out, and by 6 p.m. the 12-story building was clear, according to local news reports. The structure has 161 units and was about half-occupied at the time the split beam was noticed by construction workers who were renovating the bottom-floor parking area, WFTS TV news reported.

A contractor and engineer soon began investigating the damage.

The evacuation is the latest of several in the Southeast that have been ordered since the deadly collapse of the Champlain Towers South in Surfside, Florida, in 2021. The Sand Key move came just days after the Florida Legislature revised 2022 laws that required more inspections of condo buildings and more reserve funding to make needed repairs.

Its unclear if the Sand Key building had completed a recent structural safety evaluation or if repairs were needed after storm surge reportedly inundated part of the lower level parking area during Hurricane Milton last October. Its also unclear which carriers insured the structure. Calls to the condominium management company were not answered Wednesday morning.

Photo: Google Maps image of South Beach III condominium building on Sand Key. (Google)
The California Labor Commissioners Office cited Pepperdine University and four janitorial contractors after an investigation reportedly found violations of state janitorial registration laws.

The labor commissioner says Pepperdine University, located in Los Angeles County, hired janitorial companies that were not properly registered with the state.

The commissioner fined the entities $80,000 in total penalties.

The university was fined $40,000 for contracting with unregistered employers, with each contractor also receiving a $10,000 citation. The citations were issued under Labor Code section 1432, which requires janitorial employers to register annually with the state.

The violations were discovered following a referral from the Maintenance Cooperation Trust Fund, a watchdog organization that monitors practices in the janitorial industry.

Investigators reportedly found that although Pepperdine previously used registered janitorial services, the university later switched to contractors that were not in compliance with the states registration program, which is intended to enforce labor protections and prevent exploitation within the industry.

The four cited companies operated in both California and out of state, which included locations in Tujunga, Torrance, Agoura Hills, and Knoxville, Tennessee.

Topics California Contractors Education
More than half of large Irish companies are looking at ways to reduce their reliance on the US due to tariff policies.

A survey of 200 companies with more than 250 employees also found two-thirds of companies have appointed at least one person, or a team, to assess the impact of US policies on their business.

The research was carried out by Censuswide, on behalf of Expleo, to assess the economic sentiment fallout of new US tariff policies. It found 28% of business and IT leaders in large enterprises in Ireland viewed a trade war with the US as the greatest threat to Irelands digital economy over the next 12 months, tied with cybersecurity threats.

Our research clearly points to a nervousness among the largest enterprises in Ireland about geopolitical risk," Phil Codd, managing director for Ireland at Expleo, said. "By diversifying their trading relationships and reducing overreliance on any one market  even one as significant as the US  organisations can build greater resilience against global economic shocks."

However, it is crucial that businesses  particularly large ones  avoid knee-jerk reactions. The US remains the worlds largest economy and an important trading partner. The goal should not be to abandon trading relationships with the US, but to supplement it with new ones," he said.

Despite their economic concerns, 66% of large organisations are expecting business growth over the next 12 months.

However, a cautious sentiment among enterprises may be bleeding into overall economic sentiment, with 63% saying they are preparing for a weaker Irish economy over the next 12 months.
Irish Examiner food columnist and social media sensation Sarah Butler is set to host an evening of cookery demonstrations, expert advice, live music, and plenty of fun this weekend.

Taking place at the TF Royal Hotel and Theatre in Mayo on Saturday, Sarahs Food Fest will bring together top experts in food, health, and wine.

Michelin-star chef Paul Power, who has more than 30 years of experience, will join Sarah in the kitchen and teach those in attendance how to make restaurant-quality food at home.

Gut health expert Dr Annmarie Eustace Ryan, a consultant gastroenterologist at Tipperary University Hospital, will share tips on how to live a long and healthy life by eating the right foods.

Wine connoisseur Sinead Smyth will show people how to become a wine pro by sharing her top tips and expert wine advice and will showcase how to pair wine with the food cooked on the night.

Musicians Con and Grainne Murphy will provide music entertainment on the night.

The fully seated event will take place in the main theatre at TF Royal Hotel and Theatre. The show kicks off at 8pm and doors open at 7pm.

Seats are not allocated and ticket-holders are advised to arrive early to secure the best seats in the house.

Tickets are available by visiting https://tfroyal.ie/events/sarahs-food-fest/.
RTEs director general has confirmed the broadcaster has asked the European Broadcasting Union for a discussion on Israel's inclusion in the Eurovision Song Contest.

Kevin Bakhurst said he is "appalled by the ongoing events in the Middle East and by the horrific impact on civilians in Gaza, and the fate of Israeli hostages.

"Notwithstanding the fact that the criterion for participating in the Eurovision Song Contest is membership of the European Broadcasting Union, RTE has nonetheless asked the EBU for a discussion on Israel's inclusion in the contest.

He said that RTE is mindful of their obligations as an independent, impartial news provider, and the need to maintain RTE's objectivity in covering the war in Gaza.

We are also very mindful of the severe political pressure on Israels public service broadcaster, Kan, from the Israeli government," he added.

Earlier, in a response to a letter published by members of the National Union of Journalists at RTE calling on the broadcaster to formally oppose Israel's participation, the director of the Eurovision Song Contest said no participating EBU member had publicly opposed Israeli broadcaster Kan's participation in the event.

"No participating EBU member broadcaster, who have all been widely consulted, has 'publicly opposed' Israeli broadcaster Kans participation in the Eurovision Song Contest - despite the claims in another letter from RTE journalists," Martin Green said in a statement.

The Eurovision will take place in Basel next week.

"The broadcasters mentioned in the letter, RTVE in Spain and RTVSLO in Slovenia, requested a discussion and RUV in Iceland has informed us of their foreign minister's comments on Kans participation."

Mr Green said the organisers of the song contest "understand the concerns and deeply held views around the current conflict in the Middle East.

"The EBU is not immune to global events but, together, with our members, it is our role to ensure the contest remains - at its heart - a universal event that promotes connections, diversity and inclusion through music.

"We all aspire to keep the Eurovision Song Contest positive and inclusive and aspire to show the world as it could be, rather than how it necessarily is," he added.

Mr Green said the EBU is "an association of public service broadcasters, not governments, who are all eligible to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest every year if they meet the requisite requirements".

"It is not our role to make comparisons between conflicts," he added.

Mr Green said as part of its mission to secure a sustainable future for public service media, the EBU is "supporting our Israeli Member Kan against the threat from being privatised or shut down by the Israeli government.

"The EBU remains aligned with other international organizations that have similarly maintained their inclusive stance towards Israeli participants in major competitions at this time."

The Eurovision Song Contest takes place next week in Basel, Switzerland.

Israel is to be represented in the contest by Yuval Raphael, a survivor of the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack on Israel. EMMY will represent Ireland.
For Black Sabbath bass player and songwriter Geezer Butler, Dublin and Aston in Birmingham were the twin pillars of the world. Both parents came from Dublin and he would be a regular visitor to his granny's house on Upper Leeson Street where family would gather to sing rebel songs. Brought up as an observant Catholic, he refers to himself in his 2023 biography Into The Void as "a religious nut".

Amid tales of strange visions, apparitions and "fire and brimstone priests" summoning visions of hell, Terence Geezer Butler would soon find a "second religion" in support of Aston Villa. The 75-year-old is excited at the prospect of returning to Villa Park for one final gig with Black Sabbath for the Back To The Beginning show on July 5, and also recalls the delight of seeing the Villains take on his second team of Celtic earlier this year.

He describes Irish Villa legend Peter McParland, who died last week at the age of 91, as an "instant hero" during what turned out to be a second baptism of fire.

"The first match I ever saw was the 1957 Cup Final against Manchester United, the Busby Babes. My dad bought, or rented, a tiny black and white TV, as they all were in 1957, to watch it on. The excitement in Aston was at fever pitch. Peter McParland was Irish, so he was an instant favourite in our house, and he scored both goals to win the cup for a then-record seventh time," recalls Butler.

Geezer Butler is a lifelong Aston Villa fan. (Photo by Robin L Marshall/Getty Images) BLACK SABBATH

Ozzy Osbourne is said to be in "endurance training" after a series of health issues including a Parkinson's diagnosis in 2019. The 76-year-old front-man absorbed much of Black Sabbath's fame but it was Butler's lyrics that helped put heavy metal on the map. Mass, prayer cards and rosary beads were part of everyday life. They also helped Butler's vision of the world when putting words to Sabbath's potent riffs.

"Yes, Catholicism was a massive influence on my lyric writing", he explains. "Coming from a very strict Catholic family, I firmly believed in Satan and Hell, as well as the Holy Trinity, and of course the Virgin Mary."

Conflict in Northern Ireland was also a daily concern. "The Troubles in Ireland broke my heart to see people from the same country deeply divided by religion and politics ruled by religion. I used to hear about the Catholic martyrs like Kevin Barry and the horrors bestowed upon Irish civilians by the Black and Tans after the 1916 uprising.

I decided to write a song called After Forever, which is on the Master Of Reality [1971] album based on the Troubles. Hopefully all that hatred and resentment and double standard politics is behind us now."

Despite the band being described as Satanic in some quarters, tracks such as After Forever suggested listeners take a deeper look at Christ while questioning sectarian hatred. Did Butler experience anti-Irish prejudice in Birmingham? "I didn't endure much racism growing up, apart from the dustbin man . He called me a little Irish c**t when I was only eight-years-old.

The area of Birmingham where Butler grew up was heavily populated by immigrants. I was born in Aston, but my neighbours were Indian, Scottish, Jamaican, Italian, Irish and Pakistani, and one of my best friends was from South Africa.

I saw some racist incidents, as there was a very rough pub across the road from our entryway. I saw a Jamaican have his head caved in by an Irish bloke, a Pakistani man stabbed by a Jamaican, and lots of fighting. But once at the Villa, we were all as one, until the skinheads took over the Holte End."

Fans display a giant tifo of Ozzy Osbourne before the Champions League football match between Aston Villa and Celtic at Villa Park in Birmingham in January. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP)

Butler lives in the US, but still goes to Villa home games when hes back in Birmingham. He was pleased to see gigantic tifo display of Black Sabbaths front-man raised in the Holte End at the Aston Villa v Celtic Champions League match in January.

"The Ozzy tifo was a surprise, especially as he's never been to a match! But he's probably Aston's most famous person. People were saying it should have been me on the banner since I've been a Villa fanatic since I was a toddler, but unless you were a die-hard Sabbath fan, you wouldn't have had a clue who I was!"

As well as his beloved Aston Villa, the bassist is a fan of the Republic Of Ireland team, I went to see them in the World Cup in the USA when three Villa players were on the team," he recalls of the 1994 side that included Andy Townsend, Paul McGrath and Ray Houghton. "I flew over from England but had to sit with a plane load of Holland supporters on the way back from Miami, quietly sitting in my seat with my Ireland shirt on."

These days the Sabbath classic Paranoid, and Osbourne's solo song Crazy Train, are played regularly at Villa Park but it's taken some years for the band to be added to the pre-match playlist. Several years ago, the club had even asked Butler for suggestions on which tunes should be played. I said Iron Man. They said, Heavy Boots of Lead? No thanks. I said War Pigs - they said no, even though the Cleveland Browns did a great job with War Pigs as their opening matchday video. I suggested Paranoid, and they said 'can't have a team being paranoid' so I gave up.

Black Sabbath in 2012: Bill Ward, Ozzy Osbourne, Geezer Butler and Tony Iommi. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)

There seems to be quite a network of sports fans in the music world, and Butler recalls watching Wolves games with members of Led Zeppelin. "Apart from that, I've been to NFL games with Tom Morello from Rage Against the Machine, and I was in a box at last year's Super Bowl with Billy Gibbons from ZZ Top.

Butler will take up the bass with Sabbath for one last time at Villa Park in the summer. That gig will allow Sabbath's original line-up to take a final bow with drummer Bill Ward who last played with the band in 2005.

"I always missed doing the Sabbath shows without Bill. We built up a unique playing style between us in the old days, he vastly improved me as a bass player playing along to his drumming. There's never been anyone like him, a heavy hitter but with a jazz swing.

To finish with the original four will be the perfect happy ending. To start and end in the place we all grew up in and forged our future in, against all odds, is the ideal way to finish. Not many bands can say that. To end my career in the place I loved and spent my early years in, some of the greatest memories and times of my life, it's the dream ending".
A Cork mother has been told her disabled daughter's last chance for treatment in Ireland is no longer open to her because she complained about a doctor's manner.

Antoinette Burke, who has been campaigning for her daughter Katie since her diagnosis with cerebral palsy, has received a letter from the National Orthopaedic Hospital advising her that Katie would no longer receive treatment from one of its surgeons after she lodged a written complaint to the Medical Council.

The letter says that "in circumstances where you have made a complaint, [the surgeon] is unable to offer [Katie] an appointment or further treatment options".

It effectively leaves Katie without a surgeon for her cerebral palsy.

Katie was born with cerebral palsy and now has dislocated hips and a retrograde pelvis which threaten to force her into a wheelchair.

Along with cerebral palsy, Katie has a dysplastic hip and a twisted femur. Without surgery, she risks hip arthritis and scoliosis. However, she does not qualify for publicly-funded treatment abroad under the current State scheme because she has not yet developed scoliosis.

While doctors here have told Ms Byrne they cannot carry out the operation, a costly surgery is available in the US.

Antoinette and Katie have met with Dror Paley, a renowned hip and pelvis surgeon, who said he could operate at his Paley Institute in Florida, where recovery will take up to seven weeks. The cost of the surgery, physiotherapy, equipment, travel and living expenses could top 300,000, which Ms Burke is attempting to raise.

Ms Burke said in one meeting with a surgeon in Ireland, the family was told the US treatment was being carried out purely for money, leading to the written complaint by Ms Burke to the Medical Council.

Ms Burke said she had also complained about the standard of treatment here, but now claims her letter had effectively "barred" her daughter from the HSE.

"If you complain in a shop, you don't get barred."

Ms Burke said she was now willing to walk from Cork to Dublin to "prove a point".

"I'm not leaving until I get someone to help her."

She said while Katie does not qualify for the HSE's Treatment Abroad Scheme, there should be a fund for cases requiring treatment outside of Europe.

There should be a fund, not just for Katie, for the other kids who need treatment. We asked about the scheme for scoliosis but because she's not bent over in agony with her organs moving, she doesn't qualify yet.

Katie's case has been raised a number of times in the Oireachtas, including earlier this month during a Seanad debate on scoliosis by independent senator Sharon Keogan, who said the family "have been forced to search for treatment abroad and are desperately seeking to raise the money for this treatment".

"Parents should not have to set up a GoFundMe page to get treatment for their children."

The National Orthopaedic Hospital said: "We cannot comment on individual patient cases or consultant practices. The National Orthopaedic Hospital Cappagh encourages feedback from patients, which is addressed in line with hospital policy."
The Government has been accused by one of its own TDs, John McGuinness, of "failing the children of the State who are now adults over its handling of the Grace case.

His comments come after the Irish Examiner revealed for the first time on Tuesday, details of how the family of Fran OKeeffe first raised concerns about the Waterford based X foster family and what the O'Keeffes went through giving evidence to the Farrelly Commission.

Fran OKeeffe and 'Grace' have profound disabilities and both women shared a room at the home of the X family who were accused of sexually abusing children.

Fran, who is now 45 years old, communicated with her mother in December 1992 that she was being abused, but the Farrelly Commission, in its final report into the Grace case published last month, said it found no evidence of sexual abuse of either woman.

Fran OKeeffe, centre, with her mum Nuala and sister Molly. The family waived their anonymity recently to talk about their concerns to 'Irish Examiner' reporter and photographer/videographer Chani Anderson. See link below

Mr McGuinness said there has been no accountability and no transparency since the publication of the Farrelly report.

The system is being protected instead of the people being abused, he said.

We not only failed the children of the State when they were young, we are failing them again as adults.

They put out a whitewash of a report and the people of Ireland will not accept it. There are people alive who know what happened. The victims are the only ones coming forward. Everyone else is hiding behind solicitors.

He said the government needs to deal with the reality of life for those who have been abused.

What the OKeeffe family is describing about what happened in the commission of inquiry is the same as others that were there, they felt bullied harassed and intimidated.

They were the people coming forward with the grievance, yet they were treated like they did something wrong."

He said Frans story is similar to Grace. It is quite clear that even though they are both non-verbal they have communicated what happened.

I believe there is truth in what they say, and the Government will be trying to close this down on Wednesday (when the matter is to be raised in the Dail) but I am calling for a proper investigation, I dont want millions spent on this but questions remain unanswered, families remain very dissatisfied not only that their stories werent heard, but that they got no resolution over what faced their child.
Irish woman Cliona Ward has had the charges against her dropped by the US immigration service and will be released this afternoon.

Appearing before a judge this morning in Tacoma, Washington, Dublin-born Ms Ward was informed that all charges had been dropped against her and she is to be released imminently.

Ms Ward, 54, a green card holder who has been resident in the US for more than 40 years, was arrested by US immigration and customs enforcement (ICE) officials on April 21 in San Francisco on foot of decades-old felony convictions which she thought had been expunged from her record.

She had been held at an ICE detention centre in Washington State ever since.

In light of the Trump administrations crackdown on illegal immigration, Ms Ward and her family had feared that she would be held in detention for many months while waiting for her case to be processed by the US immigration system.

When Cliona appeared before the judge this morning she was informed that the decision had been made to drop all proceedings against her and she will be released this afternoon, Ms Wards sister, Midleton resident Tracey Ward, told the Irish Examiner.

So its good news, she gets her freedom today, she added.

United States Representative Jimmy Panetta said: Cliona Wards release demonstrates what can happen when we come together to fight for transparency, due process, and justice. We fought for Cliona from the top down and the bottom up. I pressured officials from the White House to the Irish government. We worked with her exceptional legal team from Seattle to Santa Cruz. And we coordinated with community advocates and her family. We fought to make sure that all of the facts about Cliona and her case were presented so that the Court could use its full discretion and do the right thing.

But this case also is an example of this Administration doing the wrong thing when it comes to its overreaching deportation policies that can sweep up people like Cliona."

He said as a former narcotics and gang prosecutor, "I understand and appreciate the removal of gang members and violent criminals from our communities".

"However, due process and transparency are what allow us to formally separate green card holders like Cliona, who have turned around their lives and contribute to our communities. That is just one of the many reasons why we in Californias 19th Congressional District will continue to stand up, speak up, and step up for people like Cliona, and fight for due process under the laws of our land.
Gerry Adams has told the High Court that he did not take legal action over repeated claims he was a Provisional IRA member and sat on its army council because he was advised that he would not get a fair hearing.

The former Sinn Fein leader also told the court on Wednesday that the fact that he was suing the BBC over claims made in a 2016 Spotlight programme showed how serious he took those claims.

He considers the allegations  namely, that he sanctioned the IRAs killing of British agent Denis Donaldson in 2006  an grievous smear that undermines progress achieved during the Northern Ireland peace process, he said.

The former Sinn Fein leader was giving evidence on the second week of the civil trial hearing into his action, in which he claims the programme and a related article defamed him.

The BBC denies it defamed Mr Adams, who insists he had no involvement in Mr Donaldsons death, which dissident republicans claimed responsibility for in 2009.

Continuing his cross-examination of Mr Adams on Wednesday, Paul Gallagher, senior counsel, for the BBC, referred to allegations about Mr Adams made in various books and newspapers  including claims he was a member of the IRA, and sat on its army council.

Mr Adams said Mr Gallagher was attempting to smother the jury by asking him to respond to obscure quotes, and that counsel was trying to persuade the jury that he has no reputation whatsoever.

Mr Adams said that he did not sue over such allegations previously, because he was advised by his solicitors he would not get a fair hearing.

Mr Adams said he acknowledged that certain allegations made about him were in the public domain for a very, very long time.

He said that he didnt for a second accept the accuracy of the allegations, adding, In fact, I deny them.

Asked if he was appalled by the allegation that he sat on the army council, Mr Adams said he was irritated by it, that they got in the way of his efforts during the peace process.

The fact he has sued the BBC over the claims made in the Spotlight programme show how serious he takes the allegation, Mr Adams said.

He said the inference of the Spotlight programme was that his and others efforts to persuade the IRA to end its armed campaign and leave the stage to was a scam.

Mr Adams continued that the programme inferred the IRA leadership authorised the killing of Mr Donaldson, and they came to him for permission.

I consider that to be a grievous, grievous smear, and could have no other impact on the peace process but to undermine what we have achieved, Mr Adams said.

When Mr Gallagher queried why Mr Adams did not take up the programme-makers on their offer to interview him, the plaintiff said he had a right not to co-operate with the documentary.

He said he regarded the programme as a straight ambush.

You dont have to be a genius to see that this programme, and the questions I was going to be asked, were just part of the agenda of the programme maker, he said.

Mr Adams also repeated his assertion that British security services viewed Denis Donaldson as disposable, and was thrown to the wolves after charges against him arising from the so-called Stormontgate incident were dropped.

Mr Adams previously told the court the charges  brought over claims in 2002 of a Sinn Fein spy ring operating at Stormont  were complete nonsense.

Mr Gallagher put questions to Mr Adams about the Sunningdale Agreement in 1973, the New Ireland Forum in 1984, and the Anglo-Irish Agreement of 1985, and suggested there were earlier opportunities during the Troubles for the IRA to end its campaign of violence, and avoid death and devastation.

I wish it was so easy, Mr Adams responded.

Mr Gallagher put it to Mr Adams that had the IRA ceased its campaign of violence, it would have been easier to find solutions to disputed issues in the conflict.

If my granny was my grandad. Please dont insult my intelligence by making these suggestions, he said.

Mr Adams said multiple groups, including the British state, were involved in violence during the conflict.

Mr Adams was questioned about purported claims made by family members of IRA victims killed and secretly buried in the conflict.

Mr Gallagher put it to the plaintiff that he did not provide the family of Jean McConville with information about the disappeared mother of 10 when they first approached him in 1994.

Counsel put it to Mr Adams that he did not co-operate with the family until they threatened to go to the press with their mothers story.

Mr Adams disputed the claims.

He said the familys approach to him directly led to the establishment of the Independent Commission for the Location of Victims Remains.

Mr Gallagher also questioned Mr Adams on his interactions with the families of Columba McVeigh and Brian Stack, other victims of the IRA.

Mr Adams said that he had not watched the 2024 Disney+ series Say Nothing, a drama that depicts him as an IRA leader, the court heard. Life is too short to watch Disney, especially when it is dealing with serious issues, he said.

The case before Mr Justice Alexander Owens, continues.
Folk legend John Spillane has been honoured for his remarkable contribution to Corks cultural life, and migrant support group Nasc has been honoured for its tireless integration work, as the city recognised its civic leaders.

Lord Mayor Dan Boyle presented Mr Spillane with the 2025 culture award as he hosted the Lord Mayors Community and Voluntary awards ceremony in City Hall on Wednesday to recognise the contribution of various individuals or organisations to the life of the city.

Among the winners of the six civic awards were Sanctuary Runners founder Graham Clifford for his work promoting solidarity and inclusion through sport.

Musician Jimmy Crowley was honoured for his outstanding contribution to the musical landscape of Cork, as a collector and performer of the citys cultural heritage.

Joanna Dukkipati was honoured for her commitment to supporting and empowering migrant communities through encouraging cultural expression, while Nora ODonovan was presented with an award for her advocacy and efforts in championing the rights of older people in Cork.

Siobhan ODowd was recognised of her long-term contributions to community development, inclusion, lifelong learning and LGBT+ activism in Cork, while environmentalist Maria Young was honoured for her dedication to environmental sustainability and her encouragement to all to work with and interact with nature.

Mr Boyle said the civic awards are an opportunity for him to pick just six from the many hundreds he could have chosen, not for any one event or occasion but for a lifetime of dedication and service in the common good.

And for every six I could have chosen, there could have been 600 others, he said.

We have all been touched or had our lives enriched by the work of one or more of tonights community award winners and this is the location and occasion to acknowledge and recognise that.

He paid special tribute to John Spillanes contribution to the city and to the world of music and culture, for his lifelong contribution to the popularising of the Irish language and the mythology, music and storytelling of Ireland.

John Spillane is a man at the height of his creativity, energy and enthusiasm, he said.

This then is not so much a lifetime achievement award as a watch this space award.

John has given us so much and has so much left to give and it is only fitting then that we recognise this in a special way this evening.

Mr Boyle presented his 2025 community and voluntary awards to groups in various categories, including:

The Mexican Community Cork, in the arts, culture recreation and heritage category,

The Save Our Bride Otters campaign group in the climate action, active travel and sustainable development category,

The Clogheen Kerry Pike Community Association in the community development and lifelong learning category,

Mayfield Mens Shed in the recreation, sport, health and wellbeing category,

Cycling for All Cork in the social inclusion, advocacy and integration category,

The Hut Youth Project in the social services, charities and environment category.

However, he named Nasc as the overall winner of the community and voluntary awards.

Council chief executive Valerie OSullivan said while the council is an important presence in the community, it is not the sole means for making improvements in the community.

Your presence tonight is a very important recognition of the fact you, the community, are the activists on the ground that plot and plan how to improve your area, she said.
Thirty withdrawals were made from bank accounts of a man who died in December 2018 in the months following his death until almost all of the money was gone and on Tuesday the dead mans brother was jailed for 18 months for the crime.

Detective Garda Andrew OConnell said Kevin Connolly of Ballincurrig Court, South Douglas Road, Cork, made unauthorised withdrawals of cash from two bank accounts of his brother following Joseph Connollys death.

The total amount of money withdrawn was 136,398 which effectively was all of the money available in the two accounts.

Det. Garda OConnell said Kevin Connolly presented false identification as his late brothers ID at the AIB and PTSB banks in order to make the withdrawals.

In the course of 11 transactions he withdrew 34,000 from the AIB and he withdrew more than 102,000 in 19 transactions involving PTSB. He pleaded guilty to five counts of forgery arising out of the investigation.

The money was used for lifestyle spending, including holidays and for sharing with others, the detective said, adding that none of the cash was recovered.

Seamus Roche, defence senior counsel, said admissions were made at an early stage by the 52-year-old and that he had experienced a lot of difficulties over the years. However, he said that he was gentlemanly in all of his dealings with gardai.

The detective said the deceased was a single man with no dependents but that he was also survived by his mother and other siblings.

Judge Helen Boyle said that she did not think that specific deterrence was needed in terms of the accused ever coming before the courts again. However, she said that she had to be cognisant of the need for a general deterrent effect of any sentence in this case.

For that reason, she said that a fully suspended sentence could not be given. She imposed a two-year sentence with the last six months suspended at Cork Circuit Criminal Court.
Two teenage boys have been arrested after gardai brought a suspected stolen car to a halt in East Cork following a high-speed pursuit from Dungarvan.

The juveniles were arrested after the car in which they were travelling was brought to a halt near the Lakeview Roundabout close to Midleton on Tuesday night.

They are currently being detained at a garda station in the Waterford division under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984.

The arrests were made following what gardai described as a managed containment operation across the Waterford and Cork County garda divisions.

In a statement, gardai said that shortly before 7.30pm on Tuesday, officers on patrol spotted a car in the Dungarvan area with a number of youths on board.

Following a check using the garda mobility app, the officers discovered the car had been stolen in Cork City the previous night, May 5.

The officers signalled to the driver to stop, but it failed to stop and took off at speed westbound along the N25 towards Cork.

Gardai put in place what they call a managed containment operation along the busy road, and with the assistance of gardai in Midleton, the car was finally intercepted and brought to a halt near Lakeview Roundabout.

During the course of the operation, the stolen car collided with four stationary cars.

No injuries were reported, and gardai said their investigations are ongoing.
Two people have been arrested in Cork City after an elderly woman was robbed in her home by a couple posing as animal inspectors.

Gardai launched an investigation after a man and woman called to the home of the elderly woman, who lives alone on the citys northside and made off with a substantial quantity of cash.
Tanaiste Simon Harris has issued a joint statement along with five other European counterparts condemning Israel's plans to "cross yet another line" in relation to Gaza.

The Foreign Ministers of Iceland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Norway, Slovenia, and Spain have expressed "grave concern" about the reported Israeli plans to expand its military operations in Gaza and to establish a prolonged Israeli presence in the Strip.

"A further military escalation in Gaza will only exacerbate an already catastrophic situation for the civilian Palestinian population and threaten the lives of the hostages that remain in captivity," the joint statement reads.

"This would mean crossing yet another line, marking a dangerous new escalation and jeopardizing any prospects of a viable two-state solution.

"We firmly reject any demographic or territorial change in Gaza, including any scheme that would force or facilitate the permanent displacement of its population, which would be in violation of international law. We also strongly oppose a system that does not ensure that the entire population gets access to humanitarian aid. Gaza is an integral part of the State of Palestine, which belongs to the Palestinian people."

The statement adds that for more than two months, Israeli authorities have blocked all humanitarian aid and commercial supplies from reaching the civilian Palestinian population in Gaza.

Tanaiste Simon Harris has issued a joint statement along with five other European counterparts. Picture: SAM BOAL/Collins Photos

Despite repeated calls on Israel to lift these measures and to facilitate relief, Israel has instead further tightened, rather than eased, the measures.

"We call on Israel to immediately lift the blockade. It is essential to facilitate relief for all civilians in need, without discrimination, and to follow the other humanitarian principles of impartiality, independence and neutrality.

"Together, we call on the Israeli authorities to show restraint. We further call on Israel to take all necessary and effective measures to ensure, without delay, in full cooperation with the United Nations and humanitarian organizations, the unhindered provision at scale of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance.

"What is needed more urgently than ever is a resumption of a ceasefire, and the unconditional release of all hostages. We reaffirm our unwavering support for the two-state solution  Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security."

The statement has been signed by:
In the coming days, the Catholic church will have a new leader, cheered by the faithful in St Peters Square. Once the prayers are over and the crowds have dispersed, what issues must the new pope grapple with?

1. Church unity

A key task will be to strengthen unity within the church amid growing polarisation in the world and different views and expectations within the church.

Some observers believe there is a real risk of schism after 20 years in which there have been popes on either end of the spectrum: the traditional/conservative Benedict XVI, and the liberal/progressive Francis.

Will the new pope be a unifying figure, reaching out to both traditionalists and progressives, and steering the church through the choppy waters of the 21st century? Or will he be identified with one wing of the church, thereby alienating another wing?

A key area of unity and healing will be the American Catholic church, where Pope Francis was a divisive figure. Some US bishops are avid supporters of Donald Trump, while others are dismayed by the presidents policies and statements. An early visit to the US may be high on the new popes agenda.

2. International diplomacy

The pope has an important role to play on the international stage, particularly to ensure religion does not become a fault line. He will face ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East and Sudan, plus the politically divisive issues of migration, the climate crisis, religious freedom and human rights.

Christine Allen, chief executive of the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (Cafod), said: Our new pope will take on the papacy as the world faces a challenging international combination of spiralling global debt, accelerating climate change, and escalating humanitarian need  The new pontiff will be one of only a few people in the world who can cross political divides and use his moral influence to help all of us look beyond our narrow self-interests and work together to overcome our collective challenges.

In common with other world leaders, the new pope will have to navigate Trumps second term in the White House. Pope Francis openly rebuked both the first and second Trump administrations on issues such as migration.

3. Sexual abuse

The legacy of sexual abuse cast a long shadow over Franciss papacy. He was slow to grasp the scale and systemic nature of the problem, and at first did not understand the pain and anger of survivors. That pain has not gone away, and the new popes approach will inevitably come under intense scrutiny.

The Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (Snap), issued a warning shot last week by saying several cardinals who were thought to be in the running to succeed Francis may have mishandled or helped to cover up cases of abuse.

Peter Isely, a founding member of Snap, said abuse was just beginning to come to light in some parts of the world.

 Parts of Africa are by far the most dangerous for children in the Catholic church, and the survivors who come forward there face enormous shunning, face enormous threats, he told reporters in Rome.

Protecting children and vulnerable adults, especially in places where the implementation of safeguarding procedures is challenging, is a key issue in the papal in-tray.

4. Governance

The new pope will need to take decisions on governance within the church, including the pace of change and levels of inclusion regarding laity and women. He will need to make key appointments within days to get the new papacy up and running.

There has been a trend towards appointing qualified, professional lay people to Vatican jobs rather than clerics. Under Francis, some key roles went to women for the first time, but some say the process of change could be both quicker and more far-reaching.

Sister Nathalie Becquart, who served as undersecretary of the Synod of Bishops for four years, said there was no way to go back but a change of mindset and a change of culture was still in progress.

The next step is to encourage the involvement of women at all levels of the church, she told BBC Radio 4s Sunday programme.

5. Vatican finances

There are two aspects to this for the new popes attention: general oversight and transparency, on which there was significant progress under Pope Francis but still more to do; and the unsustainable levels of deficit in the Vatican finances, which deteriorated during Franciss papacy.

In 2022, the Vatican budget accounts were about $94m (83m) in the red, and the Vatican pension fund reportedly had a shortfall of more than $700m.

One senior cardinal, Angelo Becciu, withdrew from the conclave last week because of convictions in 2022 for financial crimes (he is appealing).

Francis had forced Becciu to quit his post after allegations of financial mismanagement came to light, but Becciu only withdrew from the conclave after being presented with letters written by Francis before he died saying Becciu should not take part in the process to elect the next pope.

6. Sexuality and identity

Francis shifted the churchs dial on issues relating to sexuality and identity, condemning discrimination against LGBTQ+ people, meeting trans men and women and authorising the blessings of same-sex couples.

LGBTQ+ Catholics welcomed his compassion and affirmation while acknowledging he did not change church teaching. Franciss standpoint prompted a backlash among traditionalists, and the new pope will be watched closely for his views.

He will also need to consider the issue of celibacy for priests. Francis ultimately ducked the issue of whether to allow married priests in parts of the world, such as the Amazon, where there is a dire shortage. Will the new pope push it through?

The Guardian
Plans for a major 950-bed student accommodation development at the long-derelict Good Shepherd Convent in Cork City have been officially submitted to the council.

Developers Bellmount Good Shepherd Ltd plans to build 274 apartments across eight blocks on the site of the former Magdalene Laundry.
Few towns in Ireland treasure their history as does Cobh.

There is so much to value. From the early 19th century, as Cork asserted its status as a port of strategic importance for North Atlantic routes, the harbour often accommodated up to 300 ships. Many were British naval and commercial ships stopping off for repairs and refuelling.

Tall ships too dropped anchor, when transporting prisoners to Australia or bringing emigrants to America, with export cargo departing for all corners of the globe.

Of the six million emigrants who left Ireland from 1848 to 1950, half departed from Cobh. In 1849, Queen Victorias visit saw the town named Queenstown in her honour.

Later, Cobh would become synonymous with Titanic and Lusitania as the curtain of history rose to reveal tragedy of global proportions.

Cradled within these events was a social, political and economic landscape that could not save the population from starvation and emigration. Cobh, as a gateway, reflected the turmoil, while offering a route to escape it. As the nation fought determinedly and successfully to survive, Cobh was at the coalface of national evolution and global tragedies.

Inside the Cobh Heritage Centre, interactive exhibitions trace the stories of Irish emigrants, convict ships, and the final hours of the Titanic and Lusitania. The centres atmospheric setting and detailed displays make it a must-visit for anyone curious about Irelands seafaring and emigrant heritage. Picture Chani Anderson

The town not only treasures this legacy, but also shares it through ever-evolving, off-street exhibitions and tours.

Cobh Heritage Centre

The Queenstown Story is one of several themed tours and exhibitions at the Cobh Heritage Centre.

As an interactive, multimedia experience, the Story remembers three centuries of emigration, including the experiences of over 2.5m Irish people who emigrated via Cobh on board steamers and ocean liners. Their lives before and during their departure are poignantly portrayed, as are those journeys on what became known as coffin ships during the height of the Famine from 1848 to 1850.

Indentured 17th century Irish servants taken to the U.S. and West Indian colonies are remembered, along with the early Irish settlers in Canada, Brazil, Argentina and America.

Mass transportations to Australia are re-lived, as are the Titanic and Lusitania tragedies, which are both strongly connected to Cobh.

Individual stories abound, such as doomed Jeremiah Burke throwing a final note in a bottle off Titanic and which was washed up close to his home in west Cork.

A bronze sculpture of emigrants stands poignantly outside the Cobh Heritage Centre, overlooking the harbour from which millions departed Irelands shores. Framed by boats in the background, the scene captures the bittersweet legacy of emigration that defines Cobhs identity as Irelands last port of call for so many hopeful journeys: Picture Chani Anderson

The last photos of Titanic, taken by Catholic priest Francis Browne, are also displayed at a centre that is simply a magnet to the emotions.

School and group tours available.

Advance booking available online.

Open: Daily 9.30am-5pm.

Tel: (021) 481 3591

Web: www.cobhheritage.com

Titanic Experience

The Titanic Experience marks the most famous maritime disaster of them all.

Using trained personnel, audio visual displays and a sharp eye for detail, the museum creates an immersive experience that comprises a guided tour and access to an unrivalled exhibition.

A typical third-class sleeping area on view at the Titanic Experience, situated in the original White Star Line ticket office in Cobh.

Notably, the museum occupies the old White Star Line building and the remnants of the dock where the passengers boarded tenders to Titanic remain.

Central to the attraction are the personal stories of the 123 men, women and children who boarded Titanic in Cobh.

On arrival, visitors receive a boarding card with details of one of those passengers, before undertaking a guided tour in which they experience the sights, sounds and smells of the harbour as it was in 1912.

The tour evolves into guides sharing passengers stories, life on board the luxurious ship and the tragedy as seen through the eyes of survivors.

The exhibition area teems with stories of sadness and survival, along with cabin recreations, a touch screen documentary and an interview with a survivor.

Visitors learn of Margaret Rice and her five young children who perished, of the Odell family who disembarked in Cobh, of a stoker who secretly and fortuitously sneaked ashore and a Wexford-born chief purser who went down with the ship.

Titanic Experience, Cobh, a replica of a first-class cabin on the liner.

Artefacts include a chair from the rescue ship Carpathia, an original letter from a surviving passenger and original dinnerware from the White Star Line.

On leaving, the visitor learns what was the fate of their assumed passenger.

Advance booking available online.

Open: 9am-6pm

Tel: (021) 481 4412

Web: www.titanicexperiencecobh.com

Cobh Museum

Small and intimate, the Cobh Museum occupies a converted church nestled on a hillside close to Cobh Heritage Centre.

A voluntary enterprise, its mission statement is to preserve and interpret local history and to collect, record and preserve artefacts and information pertaining specifically to the social, cultural and commercial history of the area.

Housed in a former Scots Presbyterian Church, the Cobh Museum offers a more intimate look at local history. Its exhibits include personal artefacts, naval memorabilia, and archival documents that reflect the towns deep connections to the sea, religion, and the changing face of East Cork over the centuries.

It too explores the Titanic connection, with a centrepiece featuring the pilots log book, detailing the exact arrival and departure times of Titanic at Cork harbour on 11th April 1912.

The museum meticulously shines a light on Cobhs social and political past but its excellently researched exhibitions also focus on the towns military connections.

A historic Cunard Line plaque hangs in the doorway of the Cobh Museum, marking the towns vital role in transatlantic travel. Cobh served as a key port for Cunard vessels, and the plaque is a lasting reminder of the towns deep ties to maritime history and global migration. Picture: Chani Anderson

These currently include exhibitions on the sinking of the Lusitania, WW1 American naval forces in Queenstown and the scuttling of the German gun-running ship, the Aud, in Cork Harbour days prior to the 1916 Rising. Roger Casement and the Rising itself are also portrayed.

Cobhs commercial life throughout the 20th century and encompassing two world wars, is also the focus of a current exhibition.

A black and white photograph displayed in the Cobh Museum offers a glimpse into the towns history.

It is wonderfully explored in a friendly, intimate setting that is tireless in research and rich in fascinating facts and paraphernalia.

Open: Monday-Saturday, 11am-1pm and 2pm-5pm.

Tel: (021) 481 4240.

Web: www.cobhmuseum.com
Five members of Venezuelas political opposition have left the Argentine diplomatic compound in the capital Caracas, where they had sheltered for more than a year to avoid arrest.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said they were in the US after what he described as a rescue operation.

The government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro did not immediately comment on the situation.

The US welcomes the successful rescue of all hostages held by the Maduro regime at the Argentinian Embassy in Caracas, Mr Rubio said on X. Following a precise operation, all hostages are now safely on U.S. soil.

The government of Argentine President Javier Milei allowed the five people into the ambassadors residence in March 2024, when authorities loyal to Venezuelas ruling party issued warrants for their arrest, accusing them of promoting acts of violence to destabilise the country.

The group included the campaign manager and communications director of opposition leader Maria Corina Machado.

Ms Machado, also on X, thanked people involved in what she called an impeccable and epic operation for the Freedom of five heroes of Venezuela.

Since late November, the group had denounced the constant presence of intelligence service agents and police outside the residence. It had also accused the government of cutting electricity and water services to the compound.

The government had denied the allegations.

Fernando Martinez, a cabinet minister in the 1990s, sheltered with the group for nine months. He abandoned the compound in mid-December and, according to Venezuelan authorities, appeared before prosecutors. He died in February.

Mr Maduros government routinely targeted its real or perceived opponents ahead of last years presidential election and its crackdown on dissent only increased after the countrys National Electoral Council, which is stacked with Maduro loyalists, declared him the winner despite credible evidence to the contrary.

The election results announced by the Electoral Council sparked protests across the country to which the government responded with force and ended with more than 20 people dead.

They also prompted an end to diplomatic relations between Venezuela and various foreign countries, including Argentina.

In August, Brazil accepted Argentinas request to guard the diplomatic compound in Caracas after Mr Maduros government expelled its diplomats when Mr Milei said that he would not recognise another fraud.

A month later, Venezuela revoked Brazils authorisation to guard the facility, alleging it had evidence of the use of the premises for the planning of terrorist activities and assassination attempts.

Brazil and Argentina have rejected those accusations.
An Israeli drone strike on a car in southern Lebanon killed one person early on Wednesday, Lebanons state-run National News Agency reported.

Security officials at the scene said the man killed in the port city of Sidon was a member of the Palestinian Hamas group.

Over the past 19 months, Israels military has targeted members of Hamas in Lebanon where the Palestinian group has a military presence.

The group has also carried out rocket attacks from Lebanon since the Israel-Hamas war began on October 7 2023, and in recent weeks Lebanese authorities detained several men linked to Hamas on suspicion of firing rockets toward Israel.

Lebanese authorities warned Hamas last week that it would face the harshest measures if it carried out any attacks from Lebanon.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for his munitions industry to boost the production of artillery shells, state media said on Wednesday.

North Koreas official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said Mr Kim, during recent visits to unspecified munitions and machinery factories, praised modernisation efforts that the agency claimed enabled the facilities to double their annual shell production capacity.

Mr Kim urged workers to further accelerate artillery shell production, calling it crucial to strengthening the fighting efficiency of his armed forces, and also called for the development of more advanced machinery to boost munitions output.

The call comes as the country continues to supply arms and troops to support Russias war on Ukraine.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visits a munitions factory (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service/AP)

KCNA did not mention any comments from Mr Kim regarding his support for Russian President Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine.

Recent South Korean intelligence assessments suggest North Korea has sent about 15,000 soldiers to Russia, and that nearly 5,000 of them have been killed or injured while fighting against Ukrainian forces.

Washington and Seoul have also accused North Korea of supplying Russia with various types of military equipment, including artillery systems and shells and ballistic missiles.

After denying its war involvement for months, North Korea last month confirmed for the first time that it had sent combat troops to help Russia in recapturing parts of the Kursk region, which had fallen to a surprise Ukrainian incursion last year.

Moscow also acknowledged the North Korean involvement, with Mr Putin issuing a statement thanking the North for sending troops to support his forces and promising not to forget their sacrifices.

Analysts say North Koreas official acknowledgement of its military support for Russia is likely aimed at cementing a deeper, long-term partnership with Moscow and securing greater compensation, potentially including advanced military technology that could enhance the threat posed by Mr Kims nuclear-armed forces.

By formalising its role as a participant in the war, North Korea may also be positioning itself to seek compensation in future negotiations to end the conflict in Ukraine, according to a recent report by the Institute for National Security Strategy, a think tank affiliated with South Koreas intelligence agency.

In a closed-door briefing to lawmakers last month, South Koreas National Intelligence Service also said it believes North Korea has sent about 15,000 workers to Russia under bilateral industrial cooperation programmes.

While the value of North Korean artillery and missiles supplied to Russia likely amounts to billions of dollars, there are no immediate signs that Russia has provided direct cash payments in return, the agency said.

Instead, Russia has likely compensated North Korea with air defence missiles, electronic warfare equipment, drones and technology for spy satellite launches, according to the assessment.
Joe Biden has said in his first post-presidential interview that US president Donald Trumps pressure on Ukraine to give up territory to Russia amounted to modern-day appeasement.

The historically fraught term used by the former US president refers to a failed effort to stop the Nazis from annexing land in Europe in the 1930s.

Mr Biden told the Today programme on BBC Radio 4 that Mr Trumps statements about acquiring Panama, Greenland and Canada had bred distrust in Europe.

It is modern-day appeasement

What president ever talks like that? Mr Biden said.

Thats not who we are. Were about freedom, democracy, opportunity  not about confiscation.

He also said it was a difficult decision to leave the US presidential race in 2024, four months from election day, to allow former vice president Kamala Harris to challenge Mr Trump.

But he added that making that move earlier as some critics had suggested would(nt) have mattered.

US president Donald Trump has long dismissed the war in Ukraine as a waste of lives and American taxpayers money (Mark Schiefelbein/AP)

The term appeasement refers to former British prime minister Neville Chamberlains efforts in the 1930s to appease Adolf Hitlers moves to annex land in Europe, which failed to prevent the Second World War.

Mr Trump has long dismissed the war in Ukraine as a waste of lives and American taxpayers money.

Early in his presidency, Mr Trump ordered a pause in American aid to Ukraine  then resumed it.

The two countries last week signed an agreement granting American access to Ukraines vast mineral resources  a return on investment, Mr Trump suggested, that could pave the way for more US aid.

Europe is going to lose confidence in the certainty of America and the leadership of America

He has also said that Crimea, a strategic peninsula along the Black Sea in southern Ukraine that was illegally annexed by Russia in 2014, will stay with Russia.

Mr Biden said he worried that relations between the US and Europe were eroding under Mr Trump, with Nato member nations reconsidering whether they trusted America.

Europe is going to lose confidence in the certainty of America and the leadership of America, Mr Biden told the BBC.

The continents leaders, he added, were asking: Can I rely on the United States? Are they going to be there?'

Of special concern, Mr Biden said, was the administrations proposal to let Russia keep some Ukrainian territory in an effort to strike a peace deal that would put an end to fighting.

I don't understand how they (the Trump administration) fail to understand that there's strength in alliances

It is modern-day appeasement, Mr Biden said.

Mr Biden said Mr Trumps treatment of Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office in February was beneath America.

I dont understand how they fail to understand that theres strength in alliances, Mr Biden said of the Trump administration on Monday.

Asked about Mr Trumps triumphant celebration of his first 100 days in office, Mr Biden replied that he would let history render the judgment.

I dont see anything that was triumphant, he said.
Eleven people died, all of them early years teachers, when a dumper truck crashed into a minibus in Indonesias Central Java province, officials have said.

The truck, loaded with construction materials, collided with the minibus on a downhill road before crashing into a house in Kalijambe village, in Purwerjo district.
Attacks by Ukrainian long-range drones caused flight disruption at Moscows main airports for a third consecutive day on Wednesday, the authorities said.

The attacks come as Russia prepares to receive the Chinese president and other foreign leaders for the annual Victory Day military parade in Red Square.

Russian flag carrier Aeroflot cancelled more than 100 flights to and from Moscow, while more than 140 flights were delayed as planes were repeatedly grounded, flight data suggested, because of what officials described as the Ukrainian drone threat and amid heightened security measures around the Victory Day events.

A Russian RS-24 Yars ballistic missile launcher passes through Moscow after the Victory Day military parade rehearsal on Wednesday (Dmitry Serebryakov/AP)

Russian air defences repelled an attack by nine drones close to the countrys capital, Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin said.

Although Ukrainian drones have targeted Moscow in the past, the sustained attacks appeared designed to disrupt preparations for the 80th anniversary celebrations in Moscow marking victory over Nazi Germany in the Second World War  Russias biggest secular holiday of the year.

The repeated assaults could unnerve Russians, who have been told by President Vladimir Putin that the more-than-three-year war with Ukraine is going well, as well as potentially embarrass him in front of his illustrious guests.

Security is expected to be tight at Fridays centrepiece parade. Foreign dignitaries, including Chinese president Xi Jinping and Brazilian

president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, were due to arrive on Wednesday.

Our position is very simple: we cannot take responsibility for what happens on the territory of the Russian Federation. They are the ones providing your security, and we will not be offering any guarantees

Russia plans a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire to coincide with the celebrations in Moscow. In March, the United States proposed a 30-day truce in the war, which Ukraine accepted, but the Kremlin has held out for ceasefire terms more to its liking.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said last weekend that his country could not provide security assurances to foreign officials planning to visit the Moscow events. Russia could stage provocations and later attempt to blame Ukraine, he said.

Our position is very simple: we cannot take responsibility for what happens on the territory of the Russian Federation, he said.

They are the ones providing your security, and we will not be offering any guarantees.

Mr Zelensky said that he had instructed Ukraines foreign ministry to advise foreign delegations against visiting Russia during this period.

Jet fighters from Russian aerobatic teams fly towards Red Square for the Victory Day military parade rehearsal (Pavel Bednyakov/AP)

Baltic countries Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, which border Russia and its Kaliningrad exclave, plan to close their airspace to the planes carrying Serbias and Slovakias leaders to Moscow later this week for the celebrations out of safety concerns, officials there said.

Who could deny that in such a quite active cyber background  that somebody will not use this as a possible provocation to create problems and risks for the flight of these people through the Republic of Lithuania, Lithuanian president Gitanas Nauseda said on Wednesday.

Flight restrictions across Russia due to Ukrainian drone threats, including temporary closures at airports in Moscow, St Petersburg, Sochi and elsewhere, affected at least 350 flights and disrupted at least 60,000 passengers, the Russian Tour Operators Association said.

Russian public holidays in early May, including the days around Victory Day, are a popular time for many Russians to go on holiday and travel abroad.

Mr Xis visit to Russia will be his third since the Kremlin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24 2022.

Russian army soldiers join the rehearsal (Dmitri Lovetsky/AP)

Mr Xi last visited Moscow in March 2023 on a trip that offered an important political boost to Mr Putin just days after the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for the Russian leader on charges of alleged involvement in abductions of thousands of children from Ukraine.

The Kremlin announced on Tuesday that Mr Putin would travel to China at the end of August and beginning of September.

Since Russias all-out invasion of its neighbour, Moscow has drawn closer to China as western countries have sought to isolate Mr Putin

diplomatically. Russia has become increasingly dependent economically on China because of western sanctions.

Meanwhile, Russia launched a ballistic missile and a barrage of drones at Ukraines capital before dawn on Wednesday, killing at least two people in apartment buildings, Ukrainian officials said.

Eight people were also wounded in the attack, including four children, the Kyiv City Military Administration said in a post on Telegram.

Russian planes also dropped two glide bombs on a village in Ukraines eastern Donetsk region, killing two women, regional governor Vadym Filashkin said.

Russia launched a total of four ballistic missiles and 142 drones at Ukraine overnight, Volodymyr Zelensky said (Evgeniy Maloletka/AP)

Russia launched a total of four ballistic missiles and 142 drones at Ukraine overnight, Mr Zelensky said.

At least one of the ballistic missiles and 28 drones were recorded in Kyivs airspace, authorities said. Air defence forces shot down the missile and 11 drones.

A five-storey residential building in the Shevchenkivskyi district in the centre of the capital was hit by drone debris, sparking a fire in several apartments where the victims were found, he said. Four people, including three children, were admitted to hospital, while others received treatment on site.

In the Sviatoshynskyi district, a fire broke out across multiple upper-floor apartments of a nine-storey building after an impact of drone debris, according to the Kyiv City Military Administration. Five people were rescued from the blaze.
Friedrich Merz plunged straight into international crises on his first full day as Germanys new chancellor on Wednesday, urging India and Pakistan to de-escalate their tensions, vowing support for Ukraine and announcing plans to travel to Kyiv soon.

Mr Merz and French president Emmanuel Macron  both firm believers in the European Union  used their first meeting since the German leaders appointment on Tuesday to present a united front in the face of US president Donald Trumps trade war, Russian aggression in Ukraine and other issues causing alarm in Europe.

In a joint news conference, Mr Merz acknowledged that Europe still needed the US for peace in Ukraine, but the duo vowed to strengthen the continents security and increase defence spending.

French president Emmanuel Macron, right, and German chancellor Friedrich Merz vowed to work hand in hand to strengthen European defence capabilities (Ludovic Marin, Pool via AP)

It is our firm conviction that we cannot end this war in Ukraine without further political and military engagement by the United States of America, Mr Merz said.

The Europeans cannot replace this at present.

With the EUs largest economies and populations, the tandem of Germany and France has long underpinned the 27-nation bloc, but lost some of its vigour in recent months as leaders in both countries wrestled with domestic issues.

Mr Macron called Russia a systemic threat to European security, and said that France and Germany would accelerate defence co-operation. He listed working together on tanks, long-range missiles and combat aircraft.

He also said that the countries would start regular meetings of a French-German defence council and together develop new defence technologies necessary for the wars of tomorrow.

Mr Macron, right, and Mr Merz are both firm believers in the European Union (Ludovic Marin, Pool via AP)

Mr Merz and Mr Macron  who called his German counterpart cher Friedrich, or dear Friedrich  are hoping to give the relationship fresh impetus at a crucial time, with Mr Trump and Russian president Vladimir Putin both exerting pressure on the EU, forcing it to rethink its own security.

The pair also teamed up to demand that Israel allow humanitarian aid for civilians in Gaza.

Israel is preparing to ramp up its campaign against Hamas in a devastating war now entering its 20th month. The war began on October 7 2023, when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages.

Israels offensive has killed more than 52,000 people in Gaza, many of them women and children, according to Palestinian health officials.

The officials do not distinguish between combatants and civilians in their count.

Mr Merz said it was an obligation and urged Israel to be more responsible. The chancellors comments were striking given Germanys past and present support for Israel.

Mr Merzs Paris stop showed that the new chancellor was plunging straight into world affairs (Michel Euler/AP)

Mr Macron said that France could not, on the one hand, defend Ukrainians sovereign and territorial rights while ignoring the plight of Palestinians in Gaza.

We cannot have double standards, the French leader said.

Both men sought stability between India and Pakistan, saying they viewed the clashes between these two nuclear powers with the utmost concern.

India fired missiles into Pakistani-controlled territory in several locations early on Wednesday, killing at least 26 people including a child, in what Pakistans leader called an act of war. India said it struck infrastructure used by militants linked to last months massacre of tourists in the Indian-controlled portion of Kashmir.

The German leaders trip to Paris came the day after his historic defeat in the first round of voting in the German parliament. No other post-war candidate for German chancellor has failed to win on the first ballot. He won in the second round.

Traditionally, newly elected German chancellors make a point of visiting their big neighbours in the west and east on the first day in office to stress European unity. Mr Merz will travel to Poland on Wednesday afternoon before returning to Berlin.

Mr Merzs Paris stop showed that the new chancellor was plunging forthrightly into world affairs, sending a message that Germany is back after his predecessors more timid approach. Mr Macron touted their meeting as a new page in the French-German partnership.

German-French friendship is a gift, a gift of forgiveness and reconciliation, especially for us Germans

In particular, France is looking for German backing for increased EU defence spending in the face of the perceived threat to European security by Russia and concerns that Mr Trump is pivoting away from its post-Second World War transatlantic relationship with Europe to focus resources on countering China.

The French president also said France and Germany would act hand in hand in the face of Mr Trumps tariffs and work for a united European response and a balanced outcome that respects our interests.

The stops in Paris and Warsaw are happening on the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germanys unconditional surrender in the Second World War. Mr Macrons meeting with his third German chancellor as Frances president will be particularly loaded with symbolism for the two countries who were bitter enemies in the two world wars.

German-French friendship is a gift, a gift of forgiveness and reconciliation, especially for us Germans, Mr Merz said on Wednesday.

The First World War ended with an armistice agreement signed in a railway car north of Paris. Nazi leader Adolf Hitler then used the same railway car in accepting Frances capitulation in 1940, after its defences succumbed to the German invasion.
Days into Harvey Weinsteins first sexual assault trial in 2020, prosecutors privately spoke for the first time with a former model who alleged that he had forced oral sex on her.

But that jury was never told about Kaja Sokolas claim. Prosecutors have said they still were investigating the allegation when film tycoon Weinstein was convicted in February 2020 of charges based on other womens accusations.

On Wednesday, Ms Sokola began to tell a new jury her story.

Ms Sokola did not look at Weinstein as she walked past him and into the witness box in a Manhattan court where he is on trial again.

Kaja Sokola at the premiere of She Said in 2022 (Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP)

As she began giving evidence about her life before the alleged 2006 assault, Weinstein looked towards her, with his right hand across his mouth.

Weinstein, 73, has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. His lawyers contend that his accusers consented to sexual encounters with him in hopes of getting film and TV opportunities, and the defence has emphasised that the women stayed in contact with him for a while after the alleged assaults.

The women, meanwhile, say the Oscar-winning producer used the prospect of show business work to prey on them.

The Polish-born Ms Sokola, 39, sued Weinstein after industry whispers about his behaviour toward women became a chorus of public accusations in 2017, fuelling the MeToo movement and its calls for accountability for sexual misconduct.

Prosecutors have said Ms Sokola eventually received 3.5 million dollars (2.63 million) in compensation.

She was introduced to Weinstein while on a modelling trip to New York in 2002, when she was 16, according to prosecutors.

In her lawsuits, Ms Sokola said that shortly after she met Weinstein, he invited her to lunch to discuss her career but then sexually assaulted her. The lawsuits alleged he sexually harassed and emotionally abused her for years afterwards.

The criminal charge stems from one instance when Ms Sokola maintains that Weinstein forcibly performed oral sex on her in a Manhattan hotel in May 2006.

Prosecutors have said it happened after Weinstein arranged for Ms Sokola to be an extra in the film The Nanny Diaries and met her visiting older sister, whom she was trying to impress.

She was proud of knowing him, her sister, cardiologist Dr Ewa Sokola, told jurors on Wednesday.

She said the three of them met in a hotel lobby, chatted for about an hour about Italian movies and the heavyset Weinsteins heart health, and then he and the model left the table together.

Kaja Sokola was tense when she returned about half an hour later  like somebody waiting for the result of an exam or the Oscars  but did not say anything about the alleged sexual assault, Dr Sokola told jurors.

Dr Ewa Sokola arrives in court in Manhattan on Wednesday (Spencer Platt/Pool Photo via AP)

She said she was shocked to learn about the claim over a decade later, when she read about it in a magazine article.

Weinsteins lawyers will get a chance to question Kaja Sokola in the coming days.

In an opening statement last month, defence lawyer Arthur Aidala questioned why she waited years to come forward. Prosecutors have argued that accusers were reluctant to speak up because of Weinsteins wealth and influence.

Prosecutors have said Ms Sokolas lawyers contacted them on the eve of Weinsteins first trial to say she was willing to be interviewed. Prosecutors have said they soon spoke to her and began investigating, but did not initially pursue charges because Weinstein was convicted and the coronavirus pandemic loomed.

They revived the Sokola investigation after New Yorks highest court reversed Weinsteins conviction.

Weinsteins lawyers fought unsuccessfully to keep Ms Sokolas allegation out of the retrial. They accused prosecutors of smuggling an additional charge into the case for the improper purpose of bolstering the credibility of other accusers.

One of the others, Miriam Haley, testified last week that Weinstein forced oral sex on her in 2006. The third accuser in the case, Jessica Mann, is expected to testify later.

The Associated Press generally does not name sexual assault accusers without their permission, which Ms Haley, Ms Mann and Ms Sokola have given.
Three former Memphis police officers were acquitted on Wednesday of charges, including second-degree murder, in the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols after he ran away from a traffic stop, a death that sparked nationwide protests and prompted renewed calls for police reforms in the US.

A jury, which appeared to be all white, took just over eight hours over two days to find Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley and Justin Smith not guilty on all charges after a nine-day trial in state court in Memphis.

After the jurys verdict was read out, the defendants hugged their lawyers as relatives of the former officers cried. One relative yelled: Thank you, Jesus.

The three defendants still face the prospect of years in prison after they were convicted of federal charges last year, though they were acquitted of the most serious charges then, too.

Mr Nichols, a 29-year-old black man, fled a traffic stop after he was pulled out of his car, pepper-sprayed and hit with a Taser.

Former Memphis Police Department officers Demetrius Haley, centre, Tadarrius Bean, left, and Justin Smith Jr after they were acquitted (Chris Day/Commercial Appeal/USA Today Network via AP)

Five officers who are also black caught up with him and punched, kicked and hit Mr Nichols with a police baton, struggling to handcuff him as he called out for his mother just steps from his home.

Mr Nichols died January 10 2023, three days after the beating and the incident directed intense scrutiny of police in Memphis, a majority-black city.

Footage of the beating captured by a police pole camera also showed the officers milling about, talking and laughing as Mr Nichols struggled.

Civil rights lawyer Ben Crump, who represents Mr Nichols family, issued a statement expressing outrage at the verdict.

Todays verdicts are a devastating miscarriage of justice, the statement reads. The world watched as Tyre Nichols was beaten to death by those sworn to protect and serve.

Memphis District Attorney Steve Mulroy said he respects the jury but thinks the evidence was there for every charge that prosecutors brought.

He said he spoke to Nichols family briefly and they were devastated  I think they were outraged, and we can understand why they would be outraged, given the evidence.

Prosecutors said the officers beat Mr Nichols out of frustration

Former Memphis officer Desmond Mills Jr, who was also charged in Mr Nichols death, gave evidence as a prosecution witness.

Mills and another officer involved in the beating, Emmitt Martin, have agreed to plead guilty to the state charges and did not stand trial under deals with prosecutors. They also pleaded guilty in federal court, where sentencing for all five officers is pending.

The officers had been charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct and official oppression.

The officers were accused of using unnecessary force during the arrest of Mr Nichols. They were frustrated, angry and full of adrenaline after Mr Nichols fled the traffic stop, prosecutor Paul Hagerman said in opening statements.

Assistant District Attorney Paul Hagerman, top left, speaks the RowVauhn Wells, second from right, and her family before the verdict for three former Memphis police officers accused in the 2023 fatal beating of her son, Tyre Nichols, was read in court (Ge

They were overcome by the moment, the prosecutor said.

Nobody is going to call them monsters, Mr Hagerman said. It doesnt take monsters to kill a man.

Prosecutors argued that the officers used excessive, deadly force in trying to handcuff Mr Nichols and were criminally responsible for each others actions.

They also said the officers had a duty to intervene and stop the beating and tell medical personnel that Nichols had been hit repeatedly in the head, but they failed to do so.

The defence attempted to refute accusations that the officers used excessive force to subdue Mr Nichols and followed police policies and standards. Defence lawyers have said the officer who acted with the most violence was Martin, who kicked and punched Mr Nichols several times in the head but is not standing trial.

The defence also seemed to score points with their use-of-force experts, who testified that officers on trial acted in compliance with police department policies and widely accepted law enforcement standards.

Lawyers for Bean and Smith called character witnesses who testified that the men were good men and officers who did their job the right way.

Mills testified that he regrets his failure to stop the beating, which led to Mr Nichols death from blunt force trauma. Mr Nichols suffered tears and bleeding in the brain, Dr Marco Ross, the medical examiner who performed the post-mortem examination, said in court evidence.

As Mr Nichols struggled with Bean and Smith, who were holding him on the ground, Mills tried to pepper-spray Mr Nichols, but he ended up spraying himself, he said.

After stepping away to try to recover, Mills then walked up to Mr Nichols and hit his arm three times with a police baton. Mills told prosecutor Paul Hagerman that he hit Mr Nichols with the baton because he was angry over the pepper spray.

Mills acknowledged in the witness box that he had a duty to intervene to stop the beating, but did not.

But Mills also said Mr Nichols was actively resisting arrest and not complying with orders to present his hands to be cuffed.

During the trial, defence lawyer John Keith Perry asked Mills if he would have struck Mr Nichols with the baton if Mr Nichols had just put his hands behind his back. Mills said no.

Martin Zummach, Smiths lawyer, asked Mills if an officer is safe if a suspect is not handcuffed and searched for a weapon. Mills said they were not safe in that circumstance. Mr Nichols was not searched before he ran from the traffic stop.

Mills acknowledged that the officers were afraid and exhausted, but said some of the methods used on Mr Nichols complied with police department policies, including using wrist locks and hitting with a baton.

Mr Zummach noted in closing arguments that credit and debit cards that did not belong to Mr Nichols were found in his car when it was searched after the beating and said it was likely why Mr Nichols ran from the traffic stop.

Defense lawyers have argued that the fatal beating would not have taken place if Nichols had just allowed himself to be handcuffed.

This is Emmitt Martins and Tyre Nichols doing, Zummach said.

The defense also suggested Nichols was on drugs, giving him the strength to fight off five strong officers. Some mushrooms containing the hallucinogenic psilocybin were also found in his car, a TBI agent testified. However, a toxicology report showed Nichols only had alcohol and a small amount of marijuana in his system.

Mills admitted Nichols never punched or kicked any of the officers.

Defence lawyers also claimed Bean and Smith could not see the strikes to Mr Nichols head because they were blinded by pepper spray and they had tunnel vision as they tried to restrain Mr Nichols.

But prosecutors sowed doubt on that claim by pointing to comments the defendants made after the beating.

According to footage from the scene, Bean said Mr Nichols was eating the blows and Smith said they hit Mr Nichols with so many pieces, or punches. Smith also said hit him and Haley said beat that man, prosecutor Tanisha Johnson said.

In December, the US Justice Department said a 17-month investigation showed the Memphis Police Department uses excessive force and discriminates against black people.
Wednesday, May 7th, 2025 (8:36 am) - Score 4,320

The government has rejected an Openreach (BT) supported amendment to the new Renters Rights Bill (RRB) for England, which aimed to make it easier to deploy gigabit broadband into large residential buildings (blocks of flats / apartments) where deployment has been unreasonably refused or landlords cannot be contacted. But they claim to be actively working on a solution.

Just to recap. Large residential buildings (Multi-Dwelling Units) still require broadband operators to secure the permission of freeholders before they can deploy new Fibre-to-the-Premises (FTTP) broadband lines. But this can become tedious when landlords refuse access, fail to respond to a request, or where its unclear who the freeholder for a building actually is.

NOTE: At present over 86% of UK premises can already access a gigabit broadband network and the government are aiming for nationwide (c.99%) coverage by 2030.

Openreach has previously estimated that there are approximately 1,040,000 premises in such buildings across the country for which this issue applies and over 780,000 of those are said to be at risk of no coverage from us or any other provider. Some 600,000 flats and apartments in London alone are believed to be impacted by this.

Advertisement

The operator often already has an existing copper-based broadband (ADSL, FTTC etc.) network in such buildings, but the related wayleave (access) agreement only allows them to enter the property in order to maintain or upgrade that specific service (i.e. theyd need to secure a new agreement if they wanted to deploy FTTP). Suffice to say that theyve spent quite a long time arguing for a change to the rules (example).

The new RRB does not, by default, include any measures to tackle this problem, but two associated amendments had been proposed by Baroness Janke to resolve it (here). However, some alternative networks have long warned that they dont want to see a situation where Openreach is granted special access, which they say could leave them at a competitive disadvantage (the amendments were broad and didnt appear to be Openreach specific).

Similarly, property owners also have concerns that must be balanced in all this (i.e. insurance, damage to property, security, safety [e.g. fire, asbestos] and other liabilities etc.), which is because upgrading copper lines to fibre in MDUs is often a bit more involved than it may seem (its not always minor work) and not everybody may want that.

Equally, some ministers and peers have raised concerns that the changes might allow network operators to force their installation costs onto property owners, which would be counterproductive. Not to mention any conflicts with pre-existing exclusivity agreements etc.

Advertisement

Suffice to say, network operators and the government are walking a bit of a tightrope in terms of the rights of freeholders and leaseholders, while at the same time there still appears to be some internal industry disagreement over the best approach. Many alternative networks seem to want a more voluntary approach, but such things have not been particularly successful in the past.

Gov Rejects RRB Amendments

The amendments came up for debate in the House of Lords yesterday afternoon as part of the committee stage. Many of the above points were raised, both for and against the changes, but the government  represented by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage (Labour)  ultimately chose to reject the proposed changes.

However, Baroness Taylor did state that part of this stemmed from the fact that they were in the process of actively considering options to identify what would be the best interventions to facilitate gigabit broadband deployment in privately owned multiple dwelling units, although no details were provided.

Baroness Taylor of Stevenage said: These amendments are intended to reduce delays in deploying broadband infrastructure improvements in rented properties. However, the Government are aware that issues with the speed of deployment in urban areas have related to multiple dwelling units in particular, such as blocks of flats, rather than the rental sector in general. The amendments may not address the problem of slow deployment in multiple dwelling units. For example, leasehold flats in multiple dwelling units that are not rented, which outnumber rented flats within those units, would not be covered by these amendments. Further, leasehold flats in multiple dwelling units that are rented would not necessarily benefit from the right to request fibre to the premises because of the requirement for superior landlord agreement. We therefore believe that further consideration of how such an intervention should be targeted is required before any intervention is undertaken. We understand that network operators have strongly differing views on whether and how government should intervene here  points mentioned by the noble Lords, Lord Best and Lord Cromwell  and they have concerns that any such intervention could have unintended consequences. In particular, there are concerns that intervention without proper consideration may impact the telecoms network operator market in such a way that could harm competition and investment and, in fact, slow down deployment rather than speed it up. Given these matters, we do not consider the amendments to be appropriate. However, I assure noble Lords that that is not to say the Government are turning a blind eye to the issue. We recognise that more could be done to ensure that residents living in blocks of flats are not left behind as the rollout of gigabit broadband continues at pace across the UK. We are receiving positive responses to our work with local authorities and housing associations to facilitate deployment in social housing multiple dwelling units. Officials are also actively considering options to identify what would be the best interventions to facilitate gigabit broadband deployment in privately owned multiple dwelling units. We are actively working on that. On the point made by the noble Lord, Lord Cromwell, and the noble Earl, Lord Errol, about the cost to landlords and the potential costs in rural areas of implementing this, I do not have an answer. I will talk to my colleagues in DSIT and come back to the noble Lords on those important points. I hope that my words provide reassurance to the noble Baroness that the Government are seriously considering what we consider to be a very important issue. I therefore ask that the noble Baroness withdraw her amendments.

In response, Baroness Janke (LD) said she was very interested to hear more about how the Government will move forward on this and called for more information to be shared on what developments are taking place and by when. The government will now need to present those answers in order to avoid an 11th hour revival of the amendment(s), which did generally appear to enjoy a modest degree of support in the house.

Advertisement

However, at this stage, its unclear whether the government are considering their own changes to the RRB as part of this process or will adopt more of a voluntary approach. As weve said above, history under the previous government has tended to show that voluntary approaches (without any teeth) often end up being ineffective / ignored by many of those they target, but theres also no denying that this is a tricky issue to resolve.

UPDATE 8th May 2025 @ 7:58am

We had a comment come in from Hyperoptic last night.
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
Ann Arbor (Informed Comment)  Middle East Eye reports that Saudi Arabia pressured the Trump administration to cease bombing Yemen in advance of his planned trip to the Kingdom next week because such raids would be an embarrassment for him and his host. Trump said Tuesday that he was convinced that the Houthis were sincere in their new pledge to cease targeting shipping in the Red Sea.

The subtext here is that people in the region believe the US is bombing an Arab country on behalf of Israeli shipping in the Red Sea and to protect Israel from repercussions for its Gaza genocide. Attacking the Houthis, who are not otherwise popular, on these grounds while Trump is in Riyadh would make it look like Saudi Arabia is also running interference for the government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The Houthi strategy of hitting out at Israeli interests has helped rally the people around them and lends them some regional popularity.

MEE says that the Saudis have requested that Trump not bring up normalization with Israel on this trip, since Riyadh is determined not to recognize Israel until there is a firm prospect of a Palestinian state. Unlike the UAE and Bahrain, which did recognize Israel, Saudi Arabia has a fairly large population of citizens, most of whom would be extremely upset to see their king reward the Israelis for their Gaza atrocities by establishing diplomatic relations.

The Houthis do not appear to have made any pledge to cease targeting Israel with missiles, and the Israeli government was reportedly blindsided by the Trump move. Trump kept them out of the loop, much to their dismay. On Tuesday, Israel itself bombed Sanaa in retaliation for the Houthi missile attack Sunday on Ben Gurion Airport.

Omans foreign minister, Badr Albusaidi, confirmed the White House announcement of the cessation of hostilities. Oman has been a go-to mediator for conflicts in the region, and is helping negotiate a Trump deal with Iran.

Following recent discussions and contacts conducted by the Sultanate of Oman with the United States and the relevant authorities in Sana'a, in the Republic of Yemen, with the aim of de-escalation, efforts have resulted in a ceasefire agreement between the two sides. In the  Badr Albusaidi    (@badralbusaidi) May 6, 2025

A senior Houthi official, Politburo member Muhammad Ali al-Houthi, expressed cautious optimism, saying that the American pledge to halt bombing the small country on the southwest edge of the Arabian Peninsula would be field tested.



Sanaa, Digital, ChatGPt, 2025

Both the Biden administration and the Trump administration have bombed Yemen in reaction to the Houthi targeting of Red Sea shipping and attacks on Israel in sympathy with the people of Gaza, against whom Israel has conducted serial atrocities. Trump alone has ordered 800 bombing raids on the desperately poor country. Yemen is the only Arab country to have reacted against the Israeli genocide of Palestinians in Gaza. Its methods, however, have involved war crimes, since it has attacked civilian container ships, most of them not actually connected to Israel, and has attacked civilian targets in Israel  or has been unable to control its missiles, endangering civilian life  which is a war crime.

Former National Security adviser to the Iranian parliament, Heshmetollah Felahat, said Tuesday that the cessation of US bombing of Yemen was connected to US-Iran negotiations and was a way for Trump to block attempts of Netanyahu to draw the US into war with Iran. He said that the chances of successful US-Iran negotiations just went up.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Scottie Resources Corp. (TSXV: SCOT) (OTCQB: SCTSF) (FSE: SR80) ("Scottie" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the completion of a maiden Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate of 703,000 ounces of gold consisting of 528,000 ounces at 8.7 g/t of underground resources and 174,000 ounces at 3.2 g/t in the shallow pit constrained resource, for its 100% owned Scottie Gold Mine Project, which includes the historic mine and the adjacent Blueberry Contact Zone that are located 35 kilometres north of the town of Stewart, BC, along the Granduc Road.

Highlights:

High-quality Maiden Mineral Resource Estimate: Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE") of 703,000 ounces of gold at an average grade of 6.1 g/t gold and assumes a phased open pit and underground mining scenario. The opportunity to further expand both the open pit and underground resources exists as the deposits are open in several directions. Tables 1 and 3 provides summaries of the mineral resource and sensitivity to cutoff grade.

Optimized for DSO Concept: The MRE was designed around mining a shallow open pit in the initial years, minimizing initial capital and using early cashflows to fund the development of the higher-grade underground resources. The high-quality ounces contained within the MRE will be further leveraged when coupled with the recent excellent sorting study results (NR April 1, 2025). The pit provides a potential short ramp up phase to production, flexibility, and low operational risk. This is complemented by the higher-grade underground resource which commands higher payable terms from Asian smelters, avoiding the need for a processing plant on site. The envisioned project greatly benefits from existing infrastructure, including roads, close proximity to a deep-water shipping port, and nearby power lines. By design the DSO project will be a high-margin, variable cost model with industry leading low initial capital costs resulting in a quick investment payback.

Upside Exploration Potential: During the 2025 exploration drilling campaign Scottie will focus on converting the resources from inferred to indicated with infill drilling as well as expansionary drilling on high quality targets close to the deposits. The company notes a particular benefit in targeting the un-drilled pit-constrained envelope on the siltstone side of the deposit (a high-confidence target), as any additional ounces discovered will convert waste to resources and significantly improve the contained ounces. Exploration around the rest of the project will target zones that offer significant upside potential to provide high-grade resources near infrastructure, for example the newly discovered Wolf Zone (NR December 12, 2024).

Advancing to a Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA"): With a positive MRE in place, Scottie will continue to accelerate the project and expects to complete a DSO based PEA before the end of 2025.

Industry Leading Discovery Performance and Costs: The resource at the Blueberry Contact Zone constitutes only approximately 43,000 metres of drilling in 269 holes (97% drilled in the past 6 years) for a very low discovery cost of 12.25 gold ounces discovered per metre drilled. At the historical Scottie Gold Mine, the resource constitutes approximately 45,000 metres of drilling (31% drilled in the past 6 years) for a discovery cost of 3.56 gold ounces discovered per metre drilled. Scottie Resource's weighted average all-inclusive drill cost over the past 6 years is $357.50 per metre (Table 2).

Brad Rourke, President and CEO of Scottie stated: "The release of the MRE is a significant milestone for the company as we advance our DSO project through studies towards production. Establishing a high-grade base resource is the first step in clearly illustrating the high margin value of Scottie's road-accessible deposits. A key aspect for us was the limited drilling needed to characterize this initial resource, which we believe signifies the considerable upside available through continued exploration. The more we drill the more high-quality gold we find, and this upcoming season will exemplify that as we plan on executing our largest program to date."

Table 1: Summary and Sensitivity of Inferred MRE for the Scottie Gold Mine Project.

Blueberry Pit Resource Source Cutoff Au Tonnage Au NSR Au Metal (g/t) (ktonnes) (g/t) ($CDN) (kOz) Blueberry Pit (Inferred) 0.25 2,887 2.06 156.04 191 0.3 2,712 2.17 164.69 190 0.5 2,114 2.68 202.51 182 0.7 1,707 3.17 239.73 174 1 1,323 3.85 290.19 164 2.5 600 6.61 492.83 128 5 273 10.35 755 91 Total Underground Resource Source Cutoff Au Tonnage Au NSR Au Metal (g/t) (ktonnes) (g/t) ($CDN) (kOz) Blueberry and Scottie Mine Underground (Inferred) 2.5 1,897 8.66 678.51 528 3 1,704 9.33 731 511 3.5 1,549 9.94 778.78 495 4 1,404 10.59 829.04 478 4.5 1,269 11.26 881.69 459 5 1,143 11.98 937.99 440 10 520 18.05 1,413.75 302 Inferred varies 3,604 6.06 470.69 703

Notes to the 2025 Resource Table:

Resources are reported using the 2014 CIM Definition Standards and were estimated using the 2019 CIM Best Practices Guidelines, as required National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") The base case MRE has been confined by "reasonable prospects of eventual economic extraction" shape using the following assumptions:

Metal price of US$2000/oz gold

Metallurgical recovery of 90% gold

Payable metal of 99% gold in dore

Forex of 0.74 $US:$CDN

Processing costs of CDN$24 / tonne milled, which includes milling, transport, smelter treatment, refining and General & Administrative (G&A) costs

Underground production cost of CDN$78 / tonne, and underground development costs to be CDN$90 / tonne, for a total underground mining cost of CDN$168 / tonne

Open pit mining costs of CDN$3.00 / tonne for mineralized and waste material

45-degree pit slopes

The 130% price case pit shell is used for the confining shape with elevation adjustment of the main Blueberry pit for the underground resource.

The resulting net smelter return is NSR = Au g/t* CDN$98.60 / g * 90% recovery rate Numbers may not add due to rounding Mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. There is no certainty that all or any part of the estimated mineral resources will be converted into mineral reserves

Maiden Mineral Resource Estimate

The Inferred MRE is comprised of 703,000 ounces of gold contained within 3.6 million tonnes grading an average of 6.1 g/t gold (Table 1) and assumes a combined open pit and underground mining operation. The resource contains the Scottie Gold Mine and the Blueberry Contact Zone (including the Bend vein). The road accessible deposits comprise intrusion-related Au-pyrrhotite mineralization hosted in early Jurassic-aged intermediate volcanics and fine-grained sediments.

The MRE for the Scottie Gold Mine Project has been estimated using a 2.5 g/t gold cutoff for the underground resources and a 0.7 g/t gold cutoff for the open pit. These cutoffs more than cover the cost as summarized in the Notes to Table 1 and therefore satisfy the requirements of reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction. Tables 2 summarizes the underground resource at each deposit separately, illustrating the sensitivity of the resource to the cutoff grade.

The base case NSR calculations is done at a gold price of US$2000, well below the current spot price of more than US$3200, and below the 3-year trailing average. The planned PEA will estimate the sensitivity of the project's economics to the gold price.

Due to the factors governing a DSO project, the resource team prioritized high-grade minable ounces (small pit, high-grade underground) over a larger resource with lower grades (deep open pit) in the maiden MRE in order to maximize profit. Further optimization of the pit depth and mine sequencing will be particular focuses in the upcoming PEA study.

Table 2: Drill hole statistics on the MRE and Scottie Gold Mine Project

Scottie Gold Mine Blueberry # Pre-2019 Drill Holes 392 21 2019-2024 Drill Holes (% of total) 53 (31%) 248 (97%) Total # Drill Holes 445 269 Total Metres Drilled 44,962 43,104 Holes in Resource 299 210 Metres in Resource 30,261 36,129 % Holes in Resource 67% 78% % Metres in Resource 67% 84% Gold Oz in Resource 160k 542k Gold Oz Discovered Per M 3.6 12.6

Table 3: Breakdown and Sensitivity of Underground Inferred MRE for the Scottie Gold Mine and Blueberry Contact Zone

Blueberry Underground Resource Source Cutoff Au Tonnage Au NSR Au Metal (g/t) (ktonnes) (g/t) ($CDN) (kOz) Blueberry Underground 2.5 1,200 9.54 747.2 368 3 1,092 10.22 800.2 359 3.5 1,013 10.76 842.41 350 4 931 11.38 890.99 341 4.5 846 12.09 946.81 329 5 775 12.76 999.57 318 10 405 18.04 1,412.86 235 Scottie Underground Resource Class Cutoff Au Tonnage Au NSR Au Metal (g/t) (ktonnes) (g/t) ($CDN) (kOz) Scottie Underground 2.5 697 7.15 560.26 160 3 612 7.76 607.52 153 3.5 536 8.41 658.52 145 4 473 9.03 707.09 137 4.5 423 9.60 751.44 130 5 368 10.32 808.31 122 10 115 18.09 1,416.87 67

National Instrument 43-101 Disclosure

The effective date of the MRE, completed by Moose Mountain Technical Services is February 2, 2025. The Company will file a National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101) technical report on SEDAR+ within the mandated 45-day period following the date of this press release.

Sue Bird, P.Eng., of Moose Mountain Technical Services, who is independent of the Company, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information herein regarding the Scottie Gold Mine Project. Ms. Bird was responsible for the Scottie Gold Mine Project Mineral Resource Estimate and has approved the information pertaining to the Scottie Gold Mine Project in this news release.

The QP for the Mineral Resource Estimate is not aware of any environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-economic, marketing, political, or other relevant factors that could materially affect the potential development of Mineral Resource Estimate. Factors that may affect the estimates include: metal price assumptions, changes in interpretations of mineralization geometry and continuity of mineralization zones, changes to interpolation assumptions, metallurgical recovery assumptions, operating cost assumptions, confidence in the modifying factors, including assumptions that surface rights to allow mining infrastructure to be constructed will be forthcoming, delays or other issues in reaching agreements with local or regulatory authorities and stakeholders, and changes in land tenure requirements or in permitting requirement.

Dr. Thomas Mumford, P.Geo. has reviewed the technical information contained in this news release on behalf of the Company.

Each of Ms. Bird, and Dr. Mumford are Qualified Persons as defined in NI 43-101.

ABOUT SCOTTIE RESOURCES CORP.

Scottie owns a 100% interest in the Scottie Gold Mine Property which includes the Blueberry Contact Zone and the high-grade, past-producing Scottie Gold Mine. Scottie also owns 100% interest in the Georgia Project which contains the high-grade past-producing Georgia River Mine, as well as the Cambria Project properties and the Sulu and Tide North properties. Altogether Scottie Resources holds approximately 58,500 hectares of mineral claims in the Stewart Mining Camp in the Golden Triangle.

The Company's focus is on expanding the known mineralization around the past-producing mines while advancing near mine high-grade gold targets, with the purpose of delivering a potential resource.

All of the Company's properties are located in the area known as the Golden Triangle of British Columbia which is among the world's most prolific mineralized districts.

Additional Information

This news release may contain forwardlooking 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. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forwardlooking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in forward looking statements. Forwardlooking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date such statements were made. The Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forwardlooking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy of accuracy of this release.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Great Pacific Gold Corp. (TSXV: GPAC) (OTCQX: FSXLF) (FSE: V3H) ("Great Pacific Gold," "GPAC," or the "Company") is providing an update on its exploration activities at the Wild Dog Project ("Wild Dog" or the "Project"), located on the island of New Britain, in the province of East New Britain, Papua New Guinea ("PNG"), Figure 1.

Key Highlights:

Dual purpose RC/Diamond drill arrived in late April and drilling has commenced .

. Phase I drilling program focused on a 3km length of the Wild Dog epithermal vein structure (Figure 2) now consists of up to 16 diamond drill holes , totaling approximately 2,500 meters of diamond drilling.

focused on a 3km length of the Wild Dog epithermal vein structure (Figure 2) now consists of up to , totaling approximately 2,500 meters of diamond drilling. A MobileMT survey geophysics helicopter-borne survey was flown by GPAC over 187km 2 area (1,646 line-km) across the Wild Dog Project with 200-meter line spacing, infilled to 100-meter spacing in critical areas. The survey highlighted the Wild Dog epithermal vein structure over approximately 15km of strike length and a number of porphyry targets (Figure 3).

geophysics helicopter-borne survey was flown by GPAC over 187km area (1,646 line-km) across the Wild Dog Project with 200-meter line spacing, infilled to 100-meter spacing in critical areas. The survey highlighted the (Figure 3). Preliminary geophysics over planned Phase I drill program areas of Sinivit and Kavasuki shows known mineralized systems near surface extend to depths of >1,000m (Figure 4).

"We are extremely pleased to begin drilling at our flag-ship Wild Dog Project after months of preparation including road refurbishment, environmental base line studies, camp and infrastructure establishment, geophysical surveys and community consultations," commented Greg McCunn, CEO. "The geophysics has confirmed the tremendous potential of the epithermal vein system over a 15km strike length with depth potential to over 1,000 meters. This marks the first modern, systematic drill campaign at Wild Dog in over a decade and provides a rare opportunity to unlock the deeper potential of a proven high-grade system in a Tier 1 geological belt."

Wild Dog MobileMT Geophysics Survey

A MobileMT geophysics helicopter-borne survey was flown by GPAC over 187km2 area (1,646 line-km) across the Wild Dog Project with 200-meter line spacing, infilled to 100-meter spacing in critical areas. The completion of the air-borne geophysical MobileMT survey is a critical step in advancing the Company's understanding of the structural and lithological architecture controlling high-grade gold and copper mineralisation throughout the Wild Dog structural corridor. Originally the corridor was thought to be approximately 11km in length as mapped on surface, but the apparent conductivity trend over the epithermal vein structure extends for ~15km (Figure 2).

Wild Dog is a hybrid high and low sulphidation epithermal gold-telluride system, with brecciated and vuggy silica veins hosted in Miocene andesitic volcaniclastics. The Project hosts several advanced high-sulphidation and low-sulphidation epithermal gold-copper targets, including the previously mined Sinivit deposit and the Kavasuki vein system.

In addition, porphyry Cu-Au targets at Magiabe and Mt Regess have now been confirmed as high priority targets through the MobileMT survey.

Phase I Drill Program

Zenex Drilling has been contracted to provide equipment and drilling services to Wild Dog. A dual purpose (RC-Diamond) rig was mobilized to site in late April and has begun drilling in the Sinivit target area with hole WDG-01. The drill pads for the first eight holes have been fully constructed and drill ready. The first few holes will be targeting the sulphide mineralization below the historic oxide mining pits, near surface with open-pit potential. Historic drilling indicates a mineralized structure 6-10 meters in width, 15-20 meters below surface.

The Phase I program, running from May through August, 2025, consists of 16 diamond drill holes for a total target of 2,500 meters. Samples from drilling will be transported to the Intertek Lab in Lae for processing. The Company expects to release ongoing drill results as they are received.

"Following years of under-exploration at Wild Dog, GPAC's 2025 campaign is planned to be the first modern program to systematically test the full vertical and lateral extent of this system," said Callum Spink, VP Exploration. "Wild Dog is a rare opportunity: a historic high-grade gold producer in a proven belt, now being tested with modern techniques and deep geophysics for the first time."

On behalf of Great Pacific Gold

Greg McCunn, Chief Executive Officer and Director

Figure 1: Location map of Wild Dog Project (EL 2516 and EL 2761)

Figure 2: Focus Area for 2025 Exploration

Figure 3: Apparent Conductivity Trend at 5660 Hz highlighting known mineralized system near surface extends over approximately 15km

Figure 4: Apparent Conductivity Trend at 223 Hz highlighting known mineralized system near surface potentially extends to at least 1,000m depth.

About Great Pacific Gold

Great Pacific Gold has a portfolio of exploration-stage projects in Papua New Guinea ("PNG"). The Company is focused on developing gold-copper resources from its highly prospective land packages. Its core projects include:

Kesar Project: located in the Eastern Highlands province of PNG and contiguous with the mine tenements of K92 Mining Inc. ("K92"), the Kesar Project is a greenfield exploration project with several high-priority targets in close proximity to the property boundary with K92. Multiple epithermal veins at Kesar are on strike and have the same orientation as key K92 deposits, such as Kora. Exploration work to date by the Company at the Kesar Project has shown that these veins have high grades of gold present in outcrop and very elevated gold in soil grades, coincident with aeromagnetic highs. The Company is carrying out an ongoing diamond drill program on key target areas at the Kesar Project.

Wild Dog Project: located in the East New Britain province of PNG, the Wild Dog Project is a brownfield exploration project with a history of small-scale gold mining. The Wild Dog Project contains numerous epithermal and porphyry hydrothermal-magmatic targets evidenced by previous exploration and operations. The Company completed a road refurbishment in August 2024 and baseline environmental work in Q4 2024. In Q1 2025, the Company began preparing for a drilling program with camp and infrastructure being established, airborne geophysics (MobileMT) survey completed and a geological team in place. Drilling is expected to begin on the property in May 2025.

Arau Project: located in the Eastern Highlands province of PNG, the Arau Project contains the highly prospective Mt. Victor exploration target with potential for a high sulphidation epithermal gold-base metal deposit. A Phase 1 Reverse Circulation drilling program was completed at Mt. Victor in August 2024, with encouraging results. The Arau Project includes the Elandora licence, which also contains various epithermal and copper-gold porphyry targets.

The Company also holds the Tinga Valley Project in PNG.

Qualified Person

The technical content of this news release has been reviewed, verified and approved by Callum Spink, the Company's Vice President, Exploration, who is a member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists, MAIG, and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument NI 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Mr. Spink is responsible for the technical content of this news release.

Forward-Looking Statements

Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. Great Pacific Gold cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by many material factors, many of which are beyond their respective control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to Great Pacific Gold's limited operating history, its exploration and development activities on its mineral properties and the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations. 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, Great Pacific Gold does not undertake to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.

Mineralization at the properties held by K92 Mining is not necessarily indicative of mineralization at the Kesar Project.

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.
VANCOUVER, BC  TheNewswire - May 7, 2025  Giant Mining Corp. (CSE: BFG | OTC: BFGFF | FWB: YW5) (CSE:BFG.WT.A) (Giant Mining or the Company) is pleased to announce that Hole MHB-34 (MHB-34) was drilled to 1,963 feet (598.3 meters). MHB-34 is the third of five holes of the 2025 diamond core drilling program (the Core Program), currently underway at Majuba Hill Porphyry Copper-Silver-Gold Deposit (Majuba Hill) located in Pershing County, Nevada.

Figure 1: MHB-34/1499 ft (456.9 m) Native Cu on fracture HQ Core, 2.5-inch (63.5 mm) diam.

Furthermore, the Company is pleased to announce that all Core from Hole MHB-33 (MHB-33) which was drilled to a total depth of 936 feet (285.29 meters) has been sampled and submitted to ALS Global Services (ALS Labs) for analysis. A previous news release dated April 8th, 2025 errantly reported a total depth of 950 feet (289.56 meters) vs the actual total depth of 936 feet (285.29 meters).

The Company further announces Hole MHB-35 (at site PDH-DUH1) was completed to 596 feet (181.66 meters). The primary goal of the Core Program is to expand known copper mineralization at Majuba Hill and advance the project toward a new Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE).

David Greenway, CEO of Giant Mining, enthusiastically commented: "We are thrilled with the ongoing progress at Majuba Hill. As previously stated In my entire career, I've never seen drill core like what we saw at MHB-34 which was drilled to a total depth of 1,963 feet. Majuba Hill is rapidly emerging as a world-class copper, silver, and gold discovery, perfectly positioned as a vital American resource. Nevada's incredible infrastructure and mining-friendly environment only amplify this project's immense value. Giant Mining is proud to help secure America's clean energy future and achieve critical mineral supply chain independence."

Infrastructure Advantage

The Majuba Hill Project is strategically positioned within a mining-friendly jurisdiction and benefits from an infrastructure setting that is favorable for efficient project advancement. Key elements already in place include well-maintained access roads, nearby power supply, nearby transportation routes (highway and rail), and areas potentially suitable for processing, waste management, and administrative operations.

As previously reported in the March 17, 2025 news release, the 2025 Core Program has been designed to follow up on high-grade copper mineralization intersected in breccias from the 2024 core holes MHB-30 (MHB-30) and MHB-31 (MHB-31) and extend the high-grade copper zones below the historic underground workings (Figure 5) .

The Company will provide regular updates as the drill program progresses, including assay results, geological observations, and any significant developments encountered during drilling. These updates will keep shareholders and stakeholders informed on the advancement of the Majuba Hill project and its potential to support a future resource estimate.

Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) Measures, Chain of Custody

The Company utilizes a QA/QC program using best industry practices at the Majuba Hill Project. The samples are placed in cloth or plastic sample bags and are transported from the Majuba Hill to the Giant Mining secure warehouse for core sawing and processing and then samples are delivered to the ALS Labs sample prep facility in Elko, Nevada. ALS then transports the prepared pulps to their analytical lab in North Vancouver, B.C.

Drill core samples are sawn in half lengthwise and one half is placed in labeled cloth sample bags. All samples are analyzed for copper, gold, silver, and 33 other elements. Gold is determined by ALS Labs method Au-AA23 which is a fire assay with an AAS finish on a 30-gram split. Copper, silver, and the remaining 31 elements are determined by ALS Labs method ME-ICP61 which is a four-acid digestion and ICP-AES assay. Approximately 5% of the submitted samples are drill duplicates and copper-gold-porphyry commercial standard reference material pulps. The remaining sample pulps are retrieved from ALS Minerals and retained by the Company for future metallurgical testing.

Majuba Hills critically important characteristics are as follows:

Location: Nevada, USA  a globally top-ranked mining jurisdiction, ranked #1 in the Fraser Institutes 2022 Annual Survey of Mining Companies. 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: 83,930 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 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

LIKE AND FOLLOW

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, BC, May 7, 2025  TheNewswire - Heritage Mining Ltd. (CSE: HML FRA:Y66) (Heritage or the Company) is pleased announce results from its winter drill program at its flagship Drayton  Black Lake (DBL) exploration project (Figure 1 and 2) in Sioux Lookout, Ontario. The Company conducted scout drilling at the New Millennium orogenic gold target area utilizing its in-house drilling rig and team. The Company is also pleased to provide an update on its planned diamond drill program at the Zone 3 (DBL) Extension and Rognon Mine Area (Contact Bay) prospects.

Highlights:

Intersected multiple zones of strong gold mineralization in shallowly drilled holes (average 61m depth) at the New Millennium prospect, including HML25-003 (87m) which assayed 6m @ 1.05g/t gold, 3m @ 1.77g/t gold and 2m @ 1.78g/t gold (Table 1).

Broad zones of quartz veins were intersected in HML25-006, which assayed 13m @ 0.23g/t gold

Zone 3 Extension scout drill program commenced, and the first hole has been completed intersecting a granite cut by quartz  sulphide veins over broad intervals

Received additional drill permit for targets within the Rognon Mine Area

Secured a second drill rig for the diamond drill program at Zone 3 Extension and Rognon Mine Area, targets will be drilled simultaneously

These initial drill results from New Millennium are highly encouraging, considering the average hole depth is only 61 meters. These scout holes confirm the presence of mineralized vein swarms and structures, validating historical high-grade surface samples. We have also secured an additional diamond drill rig to fast track our exploration agenda drilling Zone 3 and Rognon Mine simultaneously. This, combined with receiving additional diamond drill permits at the Rognon Mine Area, truly unlocks our potential for discovery significantly ahead of schedule while maintaining established cost efficiencies. With additional financial support, we are in a strong position to advance our exploration initiatives heading into the summer. We look forward to communicating further results on our ongoing 2025 diamond drill exploration program utilizing our cost-effective exploration operations including in-house drilling team on current and additional targets being developed. Commented Peter Schloo, President, Director and CEO of Heritage.

The Company is also pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement consisting of 3,000,000 flow- flow-through units (FT Units) at a price of $0.05 per FT Unit for gross proceeds of C$150,000 to a strategic investor (the Offering). Each FT Unit consists of one flow through common share (FT Common Share) and one Warrant (FT Unit Warrant) with each FT Unit Warrant entitling the holder to purchase one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.10 for a period of 60 months from issuance, subject to acceleration provisions. Each FT Common Share which will qualify as a flow-through share as defined in subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada).

Closing of the Offering is expected to occur on or around May 14, 2025 (the Closing Date). The Offering is subject to all customary approvals. Proceeds of the Offering will be used to fund the Companys planned exploration and drilling programs on its Drayton-Black Lake Project and Contact Bay and general working capital. The securities issued pursuant to the Offering will be subject to a four month hold period under applicable securities laws. In connection with the Offering, certain finders may receive a cash fee and/or non-transferable finder warrants.

Figure 1: Ontario Project Portfolio 2025 Diamond Drill Program

Figure 2: DBL Project: TMI over Bedrock Geology

New Millennium 2025 Diamond Drill Program Overview

Nine drill holes for a total of 556 meters were completed from three drill pads along a 150-meter strike of this newly identified vein set within the New Millennium target area (Figure 2). Dilling intersected multiple sets of mineralized veins (Table 1) and shear zones within an interpreted multi-deformation folded sequence (Figure 3).

The Company is concurrently developing low-cost surficial exploration to advance the New Millennium target drill area (Figure 2  inset map). Key upcoming programs may include the stripping and trench sampling of known vein sets and high-resolution basal till sampling across interpreted fold noses.

Table 1: Significant assays for New Millennium 2025 winter scout drilling program

Hole_ID Target From To Au g/t Length Composite HML25-003 New Millennium 18 20 1.78 2 2.0 m of 1.78 g/t Au And New Millennium 41 47 1.05 6 6.0 m of 1.05 g/t Au And New Millennium 71 74 1.77 3 3.0 m of 1.77 g/t Au HML25-004 New Millennium 38 42 0.77 4 4.0 m of 0.77 g/t Au HML25-006 New Millennium 52 65 0.23 13 13.0 m of 0.23 g/t Au HML25-007 New Millennium 62.5 70.6 0.78 8.1 8.1 m of 0.78 g/t Au

Hole_ID Target From To Au g/t Length Composite HML25-003 New Mellenium 18.0 20.0 1.78 2.0 2.0 m of 1.78 g/t Au And New Mellenium 41.0 47.0 1.05 6.0 6.0 m of 1.05 g/t Au And New Mellenium 71.0 74.0 1.77 3.0 3.0 m of 1.77 g/t Au HML25-004 New Mellenium 38.0 42.0 0.77 4.0 4.0 m of 0.77 g/t Au HML25-006 New Mellenium 52 65 0.23 13.0 13.0 m of 0.23 g/t Au HML25-007 New Mellenium 62.5 70.6 0.78 8.1 8.1 m of 0.78 g/t Au

Note- Significant intervals for exploration drilling calculated using a 0.1 g/t Au cutoff, 2.0m minimum length and 3.0m maximum consecutive internal waste. High-grade intervals calculated using a 1.0 g/t Au cutoff, 3.0m minimum length and a 3.0m maximum consecutive

Zone 3 Extension

The 2024 drill program at Zone 3 Extension identified granite hosted mineralisation and features consistent with a magmatic source for the gold mineralisation. This opens the potential for more widespread mineralisation in the Heritage tenements, outside of the traditional focus which is on orogenic lode style mineralization in the volcanics. Dr. Gregg Morrison, consultant to HML, reviewed 2024 Zone 3 drill core, commenting that it has demonstrated similarities to other deposits in the region, particularly to the 5.8Moz granite-hosted Hammond Reef Deposit of Agnico Eagle.

The Company is currently scout drilling at Zone 3 Extension, testing along a linear mag-feature that is 2km long and up to 200m wide. The first scout hole is completed and is considered a technical success, intersecting multiple zones of granite cut by broadly spaced, cm-scale quartz  pyrite  chalcopyrite veins (Figure 4). Samples are currently being processed at our four-season core shack facility. Additional exploration programs for 2025 in this area are being considered including till sampling across structural controls to Zone 10 and east west from New Millennium to Split Lake Target areas as well as scout diamond drilling.

Rognon Mine  Contact Bay Project

The former Rognon/Wachman Mine produced 22.2 oz of gold and 0.5 oz of silver from 49 tons milled while in operation between 1916 and 1918 (Reference MLAS number MDI000000000779). Development is reported to be a shaft 106 ft deep with 307 ft of lateral development on two levels, including a raise to surface from the first (50 ft) level. There are surface indications that suggest the vein extends at least 750m in length (trenching, shafts, pits, historical mining) including five historical shafts (two production shafts and three exploration shafts). Heritage plans to undertake a maiden scout drilling program to test this vein system along strike and at depth, drilling is expected to commence mid-May.

An additional permit has been received to drill geophysical anomaly believed to related to the old Rognon Mine (Figure 5). A drill program for ~2175m in eleven drill holes has been designed and budgeted for the Rognon Mine area that lies within Contact Bay Project (Figure 5).

Figure 5: Planned Diamond Drill holes over UAV Mag inversion model (2024)

Qualified Person

Stephen Hughes P. Geo, Strategic Advisor for the Company, serves as a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects and has reviewed the scientific and technical information in this news release, approving the disclosure herein.

ABOUT HERITAGE MINING LTD.

The Company is a Canadian mineral exploration company advancing its two high grade gold-silver-copper projects in Northwestern Ontario. The Drayton-Black Lake and the Contact Bay projects are located near Sioux Lookout in the underexplored Eagle-Wabigoon-Manitou Greenstone Belt. Both projects benefit from a wealth of historic data, excellent site access and logistical support from the local community. The Company is well capitalized, with a tight capital structure.

For further information, please contact:

Heritage Mining Ltd.

Peter Schloo, CPA, CA, CFA

President, CEO and Director

Phone: (905) 505-0918

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains certain statements that constitute forward looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements relate to future events of the Company. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as seek, anticipate, plan, continue, estimate, expect, forecast, may, will, project, predict, potential, targeting, intend, could, might, should, believe, outlook and similar expressions are not statements of historical fact and may be forward looking information. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking statements.

Forward looking information involves 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 the forward-looking information. Such risks include, among others, the inherent risk of the mining industry; adverse economic and market developments; the risk that the Company will not be successful in completing additional acquisitions; risks relating to the estimation of mineral resources; the possibility that the Companys estimated burn rate may be higher than anticipated; risks of unexpected cost increases; risks of labour shortages; risks relating to exploration and development activities; risks relating to future prices of mineral resources; risks related to work site accidents, risks related to geological uncertainties and variations; risks related to government and community support of the Companys projects; risks related to global pandemics and other risks related to the mining industry. The Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forwardlooking information should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update any forwardlooking information except as required by law.

This document does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, securities of the Company in Canada, the United States, or any other jurisdiction. Any such offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy the securities described herein will be made only pursuant to subscription documentation between the Company and prospective purchasers. Any such offering will be made in reliance upon exemptions from the prospectus and registration requirements under applicable securities laws, pursuant to a subscription agreement to be entered into by the Company and prospective investors.
Introducing the "Los Mogotes" target cluster

Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2025) - Mogotes Metals Inc. (TSXV: MOG) (FSE: OY4) (OTCQB: MOGMF) ("Mogotes", or the "Company") announces the new compelling copper, gold and silver Los Mogotes Target Cluster, highlighted by rock chip assay and geology results from the newly optioned claims that adjoin and are on trend with the Cu-Au-Ag Filo Del Sol (FDS) Copper gold silver resource1, now 50% owned by Lundin Mining and 50% owned by BHP2.

Meseta extends into Chile, on trend for Filo - located 1 km south from Filo del Sol resource. Recent sampling program has expanded the scale significantly with results outlining Au-Ag High Sulfidation Epithermal (HSE) potential. New Los Mogotes valley-floor copper porphyry/HSE Target - 650 m  500 m area of anomalous Cu grades from >100ppm up to 0.59 % Cu exposed at of base-of-lithocap level; MT and IP geophysics survey will image potential for Porphyry-style anomaly at depth beneath the road-accessible target site. New Cuenca vein swarm target potential for near-surface gold-silver - Structural zones with sheeted quartz veins developed over 500-750 m area. Assays show Au-Ag-Sb (base metal) signature with a max of 0.82 g/t Au, 12.75 g/t Ag (Table 1), making the area prime for rapid trenching next season.



Figure 1: Location of Mogotes Metals Los Mogotes Target Cluster

CEO Allen Sabet commented: "Incredibly, after consolidating the southern extension of the Filo del Sol trend, our ground teams now have empirical confirmation of 3 new targets that are shaping up to be priority targets, with new lab data that conform with geological models of porphyry and epithermal systems. The data is compelling, and we are fast tracking these targets as much as possible."



Figure 2a, 2b and 2c

Meseta East and West Targets:

Right on Filo Trend: Located directly on strike with Filo del Sol and 1.2 km south from Filo drill hole FSDH116 that intersected 610.0 m at 0.39 g/t Au, 0.15% Cu and 2.2 g/t Ag from 22.0m 2 , marking the most southerly drill hole in the world class FDS Cu-Au-Ag district resource 1 (Figure 1)

Meseta prospect is the extension of a large advanced argillic (AA) alteration plateau that extends south from the FDS resource area into the Mogotes Meseta prospect (Figure 2a).

Now much larger than before: Mogotes mapping has outlined large additional areas of intense quartz - alunite alteration that overprints widespread hydrothermal (+/- phreatomagmatic) breccias and the bedded andesitic volcanic host rocks extending the prospect into Chile (Figure 3a).

Confirmation of vertical level in target model: TerraSpec hyperspectral scans reveal quartz-alunite-kaolinite alteration marking the paleowater-table level in a high-sulfidation system and suggest potential for Au-Ag (Cu) breccia and replacement mineralization at depth. (Figure 3a and b).

Meseta East - potential mineralized porphyry at depth: Quartz-veined porphyry clasts and elevated Au-Ag (Mo-Cu) in surface samples point to a potential concealed copper-gold porphyry a depth (Figure 5 photo A2).

Meseta West - environment typical of an epithermal level of deposit: breccias dominated by vuggy and massive silica clasts (Figure 5 photo A1).

Geochemical vectors - strongly anomalous in the epithermal trace element suite: Anomalous Sb-As-Ba-Bi (Te) (Figure 2a, b, c and Table 1) Characteristic low Cu Pb Zn

Gold and silver assays: Both Meseta prospects show low level but anomalous Au-Ag that may represent "geochemical" leakage, a potentially important exploration vector to concealed higher grade Au-Ag (Cu) mineralization at depth in HSE and porphyry deposits (Figure 2 and Table 1) Higher-grade Au-Ag up to a max of 1.48 g/t Au and 18.8 g/t Ag as well as weakly elevated Mo (Cu) have been returned from assays in Meseta East that in the context of the porphyry clast in breccias may suggest a potential for porphyry source at depth. (Table 1)

Deep geophysics results are imminent: Testing for near surface strong resistivity anomalies underlying the AA altered plateau that could represent large quartz-alunite breccias and replacement horizons, targets for higher grade HSE Au-Ag (Cu) mineralization. The geophysics survey will also test for deeper chargeability / conductivity anomalies that could represent a potential porphyry target.



Figure 3a and 3b

New Los Mogotes PCD and deeper level HS Target:

Located 2.4 km from Filo del Sol drill hole FSDH116 (Figure 1) and the new FDS Cu-Au-Ag resource2.

This is a new target identified by our mapping and sampling program in the last months.

Large, newly identified 650m by 500m copper anomaly: Grades in rock chip assays from >100 ppm to 0.59% Cu (Figure 2a). The surface rocks are strongly oxidized with common FeOxide fracture veins and advanced argillic altered structure and breccias overprinting strong pervasive phyillic alteration. (Figure 3a) Copper is seen as malachite (CuCO(OH) and copper oxides (Cu 2 O, CuO and CuFeO) (Figure 5 photo C and D). Mineralisation has a Cu-Ag-Au-Mo signature with Sb-As-Bi-Te (Pb) epithermal trace suite suggesting a mix porphyry and HSE character to mineralisation (Table 1).

Overlap with age of intrusives at Filo del Sol: Mineralization is hosted in basement Permo-Triassic age rhyolitic volcanics (Aurora porphyry equivalent basement host rocks) and Mid-Miocene age quartz diorite dykes and small stocks that overlap with the age of mineralizing intrusives from the FDS - Aurora Cu-Au-Ag deposit 4 .

Favorable level in deposit models: The host rocks show strong pervasive phyllic alteration with a higher temperature AA overprint. TerraSpec mineral composition analysis of the alteration assemblage shows phyllic alteration (white mica) is dominated by paragonite > muscovite and the advanced argillic alteration by alunite(K-Na)-pyrophyllite-jarosite (Figure 3b). The mineralogy of the alteration assemblage is indicative of higher temperature, base of lithocap to top of the phyllic zone that predictive deposit models 5 show maybe developed above a concealed porphyry deposit (Figure 4).

Geophysical targeting coming up: Mogotes geophysics survey is designed to test this prospect for geophysical anomalies consistent with a concealed porphyry mineral system.

The Los Mogotes prospect is located in a valley at a relatively low altitude of 4800m: with established access for potential drill testing via an existing road to the edge of the prospect from the Chilean city of Copiapo.

Figure 4 and 5

New Cuenca Au-Ag (Cu Zn) Target:

Cuenca vein swarm: Cuenca is characterized by swarm of narrow structural zones of sheeted quartz veinlets (Figure 5 photo C) developed over a 500m to 750m strike by up to 270m wide area

Precious metal rich assays: Cuenca rock chip assays show strong Au-Ag-Sb-As-Ba-Bi (Zn-Pb-Mo>Cu) combined precious metal epithermal + polymetallic geochemical signature (Figure 2a to c).

Overlap with age of intrusives at Filo del Sol: Mineralization is hosted within the Permo-Triassic basement sequence and phyillic altered quartz diorite porphyries that are Middle Miocene in age and overlap with the age of the intrusive related to the FDS mineral system 4 (Figure 3a).

Advanced argillic alteration: TerraSpec mineral composition analysis of the alteration assemblage shows dickite-alunite(K>Na)-gypsum-jarosite that is definitively AA epithermal in character (Figure 3b).

Near surface potential: The combined precious metal - polymetallic signature of Cuenca with the AA alteration suggests the potential for structural hosted Au-Ag epithermal mineralization in near surface.

Geophysics to accelerate understanding: Understanding of the potential of this new target is at an early stage, geophysical survey results here will highlight silica-rich zones for rapid trenching and first-pass drilling.

Next Steps

Preliminary geophysical survey results (MT and DDIP) for 10.9 line-km from Los Mogotes Target cluster Final geophysical 3D model for MT and DDIP surveys Assay results from the infill sampling program at Los Mogotes porphyry target Assay results from the soil grid sampling program at the Meseta target Assay results from the trenching and rock chip sampling program on the Argentine sampling program



Table 1

References

1 TSX: LUN. May 4, 2025. News Release, Lundin Mining Announces Initial Mineral Resource at Filo Del Sol Demonstrating One of the World's Largest Copper, Gold, and Silver Resources. Lundin Mining

2 TSX: LUN. Jan 15, 2025. News Release, Lundin Mining Completes Joint Acquisition of Filo with BHP and 50% Sale of Josemaria to Form Vicuna Corp. Lundin Mining

3TSX: FIL. Nov 21, 2024. Filo Drills 1,270m at 0.92% CuEq in Aurora and 529m at 0.97% CuEq in Bonita

4 Perello, et al. Geology of Porphyry Cu-Au and Epithermal Cu-Au-Ag Mineralization at Filo del Sol, Argentina-Chile: Extreme Telescoping During Andean Uplift. Economic Geology (2023) 118 (6): 1261-1290.

5 Hedenquist1 and Arribas. Exploration Implications of Multiple Formation Environments of Advanced Argillic Minerals Economic Geology (2023) v. 117, no. 3, pp. 609-643

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 same N-S trending belt as 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 from Argentina are dispatched bagged in raffia bags and packaged for shipment by an exclusive truck to the ALS laboratory in Mendoza, Argentina. Samples from Chile are dispatched bagged in raffia bags and delivered to the ALS laboratory in Copiapo, Chile. These facilities carried out sample preparation (PREP-31B) which includes crush to 70 % less than 2 mm, riffle split off 1kg, pulverize to 85% passing 75 microns. The prepared samples are sent to the ALS laboratory in Lima, Peru for gold and multi-element analysis. Gold (Au-ICP21) was analyzed by fire assay fusion with ICP-AES finish on a 30 g sample. Samples were also analyzed for a suit of 48 elements (ME-MS61) with four acid digestion and ICP-MS finish.

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. All 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.
MONTREAL, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd (the Company or Osisko) (OR: TSX & NYSE) today announced its consolidated financial results for the first quarter of 2025. Amounts presented are in United States dollars, except where otherwise noted.

Highlights

19,014 gold equivalent ounces (GEOs 1 ) earned (22,259 GEOs in Q1 2024 2 );

) earned (22,259 GEOs in Q1 2024 ); Revenues from royalties and streams of $54.9 million ($45.0 million in Q1 2024);

Cash flows generated by operating activities of $46.1 million ($37.4 million in Q1 2024);

Quarterly cash margin 3 of $53.3 million or 97.1% ($43.7 million or 97.0% in Q1 2024);

of $53.3 million or 97.1% ($43.7 million or 97.0% in Q1 2024); Net earnings of $25.6 million, $0.14 per basic share ($11.2 million, $0.06 per basic share in Q1 2024);

Adjusted earnings 3 of $29.5 million, $0.16 per basic share ($22.0 million, $0.12 per basic share in Q1 2024);

of $29.5 million, $0.16 per basic share ($22.0 million, $0.12 per basic share in Q1 2024); Net repayment of $19.6 million under the revolving credit facility;

Cash balance of $63.1 million and debt of $74.3 million as at March 31, 2025;

Acquisition of a 1.5% net smelter return (NSR) royalty from Japan Gold Corp. (Japan Gold) on Japan Golds wholly-controlled properties in Japan for cash consideration of $5.0 million; and

Declaration of a quarterly dividend of C$0.065 per common share paid on April 15, 2025 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on March 31, 2025.

Subsequent to March 31, 2025

Additional repayments of $30.0 million under the Companys revolving credit facility;

First payment received from Talisker Resources Ltd. under the Bralorne 1.7% NSR royalty;

Acquisition of a basket of royalties across various projects in British Columbia from Sable Resources Ltd. (Sable Resources) for consideration of C$3.8 million, as well as certain rights in relation to the future acquisition of similar interests from Sable Resources;

Publication of the fifth edition of the Companys sustainability report, Growing Responsibly; and

Declaration of a quarterly dividend of US$0.055 per common share, a 20% increase over the previous quarterly dividend, based on the foreign exchange rate (C$/US$) on the declaration date of the first quarter dividend. The dividend will be paid on July 15, 2025 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on June 30, 2025.

Management Commentary

Jason Attew, President & CEO of Osisko commented: Osiskos first quarter represented a good start for the Company in 2025 and serves as a solid base for Osisko to achieve its 2025 guidance range of 80,000 to 88,000 GEOs earned, especially considering that the Companys GEO deliveries are expected to sequentially improve quarter-by-quarter throughout the remainder of the year ahead.

Looking ahead over the next few months, there are several upcoming catalysts to watch out for, including, but not limited to, Osisko Developments project financing initiatives on the back of last weeks Optimized Feasibility Study results for the fully-permitted Cariboo gold project; a new life-of-mine plan at Alamos Golds Island Gold District; and finally, the anticipated Implementation of the Scheme of Arrangement between Spartan Resources and Ramelius Resources, which, if implemented, could accelerate first production from Dalgaranga to late 2025, a full year ahead of Osiskos expectations when we acquired the Dalgaranga 1.8% gross smelter return royalty in late September of 2024.

Norman MacDonald, Board Chair of Osisko, also commented: Tomorrows Annual and Special Meeting of Shareholders will mark the end of Joanne Ferstmans tenure as an Independent Director on Osiskos Board. Joanne has been on Osiskos Board of Directors from the very beginning, and, as such, both Board and Management would like to wholeheartedly thank Joanne for her many years of leadership, guidance and service. Her attention to detail and dedication to realizing the Companys strategic vision, amongst her many other skills, will be missed. We would also like to wish Joanne all the best in her future endeavours.

Q1 2025 RESULTS CONFERENCE AND WEBCAST CALL DETAILS

Conference Call: Thursday, May 8th, 2025 at 10:00 am ET Dial-in Numbers:

(Option 1) North American Toll-Free: 1 (800) 717-1738

Local  Montreal: 1 (514) 400-3792

Local  Toronto: 1 (289) 514-5100

Local  New York: 1 (646) 307-1865

Conference ID: 33088 Webcast link:

(Option 2) https://viavid.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1713958&tp_key=482b1aae4e Replay (available until

Sunday, June 8th, at 11:59

PM ET): North American Toll-Free: 1 (888) 660-6264

Local  Toronto: 1 (289) 819-1325

Local  New York: 1 (646) 517-3975

Playback Passcode: 33088# Replay also available on our website at www.osiskogr.com

Annual and Special Meeting of Shareholders

The Companys 2025 Annual and Special Meeting of shareholders will be held on May 8, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec.

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Guy Desharnais, Ph.D., P.Geo., Vice President, Project Evaluation at Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd, who is a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101).

About Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd

Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd is an intermediate precious metal royalty company which holds a North American focused portfolio of over 195 royalties, streams and precious metal offtakes, including 21 producing assets. Osiskos portfolio is anchored by its cornerstone asset, a 3-5% net smelter return royalty on the Canadian Malartic Complex, home to one of Canadas largest gold mines.

Osiskos head office is located at 1100 Avenue des Canadiens-de-Montreal, Suite 300, Montreal, Quebec, H3B 2S2.

Notes: (1) Gold Equivalent Ounces



GEOs are calculated on a quarterly basis and include royalties and streams. Silver ounces and copper tonnes earned from royalty and stream agreements are converted to gold equivalent ounces by multiplying the silver ounces or copper tonnes by the average silver price per ounce or copper price per tonne for the period and dividing by the average gold price per ounce for the period. Diamonds, other metals and cash royalties are converted into gold equivalent ounces by dividing the associated revenue by the average gold price per ounce for the period.

Average Metal Prices and Exchange Rate Three months ended

March 31, 2025 2024 Gold (i) $ 2,860 $ 2,070 Silver (ii) $ 31.88 $ 23.34 Copper (iii) $ 9,340 $ 8,438 Exchange rate (C$/US$) (iv) 0.6968 0.7415

(i) The average price represents the London Bullion Market Associations PM price in U.S. dollars per ounce. (ii) The average price represents the London Bullion Market Associations price in U.S. dollars per ounce. (iii) The average price represents the London Metal Exchanges price in U.S. dollars per tonne. (iv) Bank of Canada daily rate.

(2) Three months ended March 31, 2024 (Q1 2024). (3) Non-IFRS Measures



Cash margin



Cash margin in dollars and in percentage of revenues are non-IFRS financial measures. Cash margin (in dollars) is defined by Osisko as revenues less cost of sales (excluding depletion). Cash margin (in percentage of revenues) is obtained from the cash margin (in dollars) divided by revenues.



Management uses cash margin in dollars and in percentage of revenues to evaluate Osiskos ability to generate positive cash flow from its royalty, stream and other interests. Management and certain investors also use this information, together with measures determined in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards such as gross margin and operating cash flows, to evaluate Osiskos performance relative to peers in the mining industry who present these measures on a similar basis. Cash margin in dollars and in percentage of revenues are only intended to provide additional information to investors and analysts and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards. They do not have any standardized meaning under IFRS Accounting Standards and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.



A reconciliation of the cash margin per type of interests (in thousands of dollars and in percentage of revenues) is presented below:

Three months ended

March 31,

2025 2024 $ $ Royalty interests Revenues 36,790 33,029 Less: cost of sales (excluding depletion) (145 ) (78 ) Cash margin (in dollars) 36,645 32,951 Depletion (2,710 ) (4,104 ) Gross profit 33,935 28,847 Stream interests Revenues 18,126 12,018 Less: cost of sales (excluding depletion) (1,474 ) (1,281 ) Cash margin (in dollars) 16,652 10,737 Depletion (5,034 ) (4,442 ) Gross profit 11,618 6,295 Royalty and stream interests

Total cash margin (in dollars) 53,297 43,688 Divided by: total revenues 54,916 45,047 Cash margin (in percentage of revenues) 97.1 % 97.0 % Total  Gross profit 45,553 35,142

Adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per basic share



Adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per basic share are non-IFRS financial measures and are defined by Osisko by excluding the following items from net earnings (loss) and earnings (loss) per share: foreign exchange gains (losses), impairment charges and reversal related to royalty, stream and other interests, changes in allowance for expected credit losses, write-offs and impairment of investments, gains (losses) on disposal of assets, gains (losses) on investments, share of income (loss) of associates, transaction costs and other items such as non-cash gains (losses), as well as the impact of income taxes on these items. Adjusted earnings per basic share is obtained from the adjusted earnings divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period.



Management uses adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per basic share to evaluate the underlying operating performance of Osisko as a whole for the reporting periods presented, to assist with the planning and forecasting of future operating results, and to supplement information in its consolidated financial statements. Management believes that in addition to measures prepared in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards such as net earnings (loss) and net earnings (loss) per basic share, investors and analysts use adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per basic share to evaluate the results of the underlying business of Osisko, particularly since the excluded items are typically not included in Osiskos annual guidance. While the adjustments to net earnings (loss) and net earnings (loss) per basic share in these measures include items that are both recurring and non-recurring, management believes that adjusted earnings and adjusted net earnings per basic share are useful measures of Osiskos performance because they adjust for items which may not relate to or have a disproportionate effect on the period in which they are recognized, impact the comparability of the core operating results from period to period, are not always reflective of the underlying operating performance of the business and/or are not necessarily indicative of future operating results. Adjusted net earnings and adjusted net earnings per basic share are intended to provide additional information to investors and analysts and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards. They do not have any standardized meaning under IFRS Accounting Standards and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.



A reconciliation of net earnings to adjusted net earnings is presented below:

Three months ended

March 31,

2025 2024 (in thousands of dollars,

except per share amounts) $ $ Net earnings 25,640 11,169 Adjustments: Foreign exchange (gain) loss (160 ) 2,411 Share of loss of associates 3,752 10,053 Changes in allowance for expected credit losses and write-offs - (1,399 ) Loss (gain) on investments 286 (388 ) Tax impact of adjustments (41 ) 136 Adjusted earnings 29,477 22,032 Weighted average number of common shares outstanding (000s) 186,979 185,761 Adjusted earnings per basic share 0.16 0.12

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this press release may be deemed forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are statements other than statements of historical fact, that address, without limitation, future events, that Osisko will meet its guidance estimate, that development and milestones to be achieved by operators of the properties in which the Company holds interest will be achieved in a timely manner. 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, scheduled and similar expressions or variations (including negative variations), or that events or conditions will, would, may, could or should occur. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, most of which are beyond the control of Osisko, and actual results may accordingly differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Such risk factors include, without limitation, (i) with respect to properties in which Osisko holds a royalty, stream or other interest; risks related to: (a) the operators of the properties, (b) timely development, permitting, construction, commencement of production, ramp-up (including operating and technical challenges), (c) differences in rate and timing of production from resource estimates or production forecasts by operators, (d) differences in conversion rate from resources to reserves and ability to replace resources, (e) the unfavorable outcome of any challenges or litigation relating title, permit or license, (f) hazards and uncertainty associated with the business of exploring, development and mining including, but not limited to unusual or unexpected geological and metallurgical conditions, slope failures or cave-ins, flooding and other natural disasters or civil unrest or other uninsured risks, (ii) with respect to other external factors: (a) fluctuations in the prices of the commodities that drive royalties, streams, offtakes and investments held by Osisko, (b) a trade war or new tariff barriers, (c) fluctuations in the value of the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar, (d) regulatory changes by national and local governments, including permitting and licensing regimes and taxation policies, regulations and political or economic developments in any of the countries where properties in which Osisko holds a royalty, stream or other interest are located or through which they are held, (e) continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions, and (f) responses of relevant governments to infectious diseases outbreaks and the effectiveness of such response and the potential impact of such outbreaks on Osiskos business, operations and financial condition; (iii) with respect to internal factors: (a) business opportunities that may or not become available to, or are pursued by Osisko, (b) the integration of acquired assets or (c) the determination of Osiskos PFIC status (d) that preliminary financial information may be subject to quarter end adjustments. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based upon assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including, without limitation: the absence of significant change in Osiskos ongoing income and assets relating to determination of its PFIC status, and the absence of any other factors that could cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended and, with respect to properties in which Osisko holds a royalty, stream or other interest, (i) the ongoing operation of the properties by the owners or operators of such properties in a manner consistent with past practice and with public disclosure (including forecast of production), (ii) the accuracy of public statements and disclosures made by the owners or operators of such underlying properties (including expectations for the development of underlying properties that are not yet in production), (iii) no adverse development in respect of any significant property, (iv) that statements and estimates relating to mineral reserves and resources by owners and operators are accurate and (v) the implementation of an adequate plan for integration of acquired assets.

For additional information on risks, uncertainties and assumptions, please refer to the most recent Annual Information Form of Osisko filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and EDGAR at www.sec.gov which also provides additional general assumptions in connection with these statements. Osisko cautions that the foregoing list of risk and uncertainties is not exhaustive. Investors and others should carefully consider the above factors as well as the uncertainties they represent and the risk they entail. Osisko believes that the assumptions reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be accurate as actual results and prospective events could materially differ from those anticipated such the forward-looking statements and such forward-looking statements included in this press release are not guarantee of future performance and should not be unduly relied upon. In this press release, Osisko relies on information publicly disclosed by other issuers and third parties pertaining to its assets and, therefore, assumes no liability for such third-party public disclosure. These statements speak only as of the date of this press release. Osisko undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by applicable law.

Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd

Consolidated Balance Sheets

As at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024

(Unaudited) (tabular amounts expressed in thousands of United States dollars) March 31, December 31, 2025 2024 $ $ Assets Current assets Cash 63,070 59,096 Amounts receivable 2,773 3,106 Other assets 1,511 1,612 67,354 63,814 Non-current assets Investments in associates 40,086 43,262 Other investments 85,403 74,043 Royalty, stream and other interests 1,112,393 1,113,855 Goodwill 77,353 77,284 Other assets 6,140 5,376 1,388,729 1,377,634 Liabilities Current liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 3,923 5,331 Dividends payable 8,457 8,433 Lease liabilities 1,132 852 13,512 14,616 Non-current liabilities Lease liabilities 4,539 3,931 Long-term debt 74,346 93,900 Deferred income taxes 82,438 76,234 174,835 188,681 Equity Share capital 1,680,514 1,675,940 Contributed surplus 65,003 63,567 Accumulated other comprehensive loss (139,637 ) (141,841 ) Deficit (391,986 ) (408,713 ) 1,213,894 1,188,953 1,388,729 1,377,634

Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd

Consolidated Statements of Income

For the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024

(Unaudited) (tabular amounts expressed in thousands of United States dollars, except per share amounts) 2025 2024 $ $ (restated) Revenues 54,916 45,047 Cost of sales (1,619 ) (1,359 ) Depletion (7,744 ) (8,546 ) Gross profit 45,553 35,142 Other operating expenses General and administrative (4,959 ) (4,544 ) Business development (2,079 ) (1,011 ) Operating income 38,515 29,587 Interest income 598 934 Finance costs (1,730 ) (2,767 ) Foreign exchange gain (loss) 160 (2,411 ) Share of loss of associates (3,752 ) (10,053 ) Other (losses) gains, net (286 ) 1,737 Earnings before income taxes 33,505 17,027 Income tax expense (7,865 ) (5,858 ) Net earnings 25,640 11,169 Net earnings per share Basic and diluted 0.14 0.06
The UN rights chief voiced deepened concerns Wednesday that Israel's plans to expand its offensive in Gaza aim to create conditions threatening Palestinians' "continued existence" in the territory.

Israel's military has called up tens of thousands of reservists for an expanded offensive in the Gaza Strip, which an official said would entail the "conquest" of the Palestinian territory.

"Israel's reported plans to forcibly transfer Gaza's population to a small area in the south of the Strip and threats by Israeli officials to deport Palestinians outside of Gaza further aggravate concerns that Israel's actions are aimed at inflicting on Palestinians conditions of life increasingly incompatible with their continued existence in Gaza as a group," Volker Turk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, said in a statement.

"There is no reason to believe that doubling down on military strategies, which, for a year and eight months, have not led to a durable resolution, including the release of all hostages, will now succeed," he said.

"Instead, expanding the offensive on Gaza will almost certainly cause further mass displacement, more deaths and injuries of innocent civilians, and the destruction of Gaza's little remaining infrastructure."

Nearly all of the Palestinian territory's 2.4 million people have been displaced at least once during the war, sparked by Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack on Israel.

A more than two-month Israeli blockade on all aid into Gaza has worsened the humanitarian crisis.

Turk warned that stepping up the Israeli offensive "would only compound the misery and suffering inflicted by the complete blockade on the entry of basic goods for almost nine weeks now".

"Gaza's residents have already been deprived of all lifesaving necessities, particularly food, with relentless Israeli attacks on community kitchens and those trying to maintain a minimum of law and order," he said.

"Any use of starvation of the civilian population as a method of war constitutes a war crime," Turk said, adding that "the only lasting solution to this crisis lies through full compliance with international law".

The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza says at least 2,507 people had been killed since Israel resumed its campaign in mid-March, bringing the overall death toll from the war to 52,615.

Hamas's 2023 attack resulted in the deaths of 1,218 people on the Israeli side, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official figures.

Of the 251 people abducted by militants that day, 58 are still held in Gaza, including 34 the Israeli military says are dead.
Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa on a visit to France on Wednesday met a whistleblower known as "Caesar" who smuggled out tens of thousands of pictures depicting the tortured corpses of detainees under ousted ruler Bashar al-Assad.

Sharaa and Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani "met with Farid al-Madhan, known as 'Caesar', on the sidelines of their visit" to Paris, the Syrian presidency said in a statement, posting images of the meeting.

Syrian state media earlier reported that Sharaa had arrived in Paris, where he is due to meet French leader Emmanuel Macron, on his first visit to Europe since overthrowing Assad in December.

Madhan revealed his identity in February during an interview with Qatari broadcaster Al Jazeera after being known for years only as a Syrian military photographer under the pseudonym Caesar.

He fled Syria in 2013 with some 55,000 graphic images taken after Syria's war erupted two years earlier with the brutal repression of anti-government protests, smuggled in a flash drive.

The photos, authenticated by experts, show corpses tortured and starved to death in Syrian prisons.

He testified to a US Congress committee and his photographs inspired a 2020 US law which imposed economic sanctions on Syria and judicial proceedings in Europe against Assad's entourage.

Germany, the Netherlands and France have since 2022 convicted several top officials from the Syrian intelligence service and militias.

After war erupted, Madhan told Al Jazeera he was tasked with "taking pictures of victims of detention".

He had said that these included "old men, women and children, who were detained at security checkpoints in Damascus, and from protest squares that called for freedom and dignity".

He said he postponed his defection from the government forces and fleeing the country in order to be able to "collect the largest number of pictures documenting and incriminating the Syrian regime apparatuses of committing crimes against humanity".

In March, Sharaa signed into force a constitutional declaration for a five-year transitional period during which a "transitional justice commission" would be formed to "determine the means for accountability, establish the facts, and provide justice to victims and survivors" of the former government's misdeeds.

In Paris, Sharaa will discuss post-war reconstruction and economic cooperation during his meeting with Macron, a Syrian government official has said.

Syria's new authorities are seeking the full lifting of Assad-era sanctions but are under increasing pressure from Europe to show their commitment to protecting minority rights.
Gonzales, LA  Mayeux Law, a respected name in family law, is proud to expand its services to offer more comprehensive, compassionate, and professional legal representation for families in Gonzales, LA. With deep expertise in Louisianas family law landscape, Mayeux Law continues to be a trusted resource for individuals facing complex family matters, including divorce, custody disputes, prenuptial agreements, and spousal support.

Family law is more than just legal processesits about providing support during some of the most challenging times in peoples lives, said Kaitlin Mayeux, founder of Mayeux Law. Our mission is to guide our clients through these difficult moments with clarity and compassion, ensuring they feel confident in the decisions they make for their future.

Addressing the 50% Divorce Myth

The widely circulated statistic that 50% of marriages end in divorce is often misunderstood. This figure originated from early studies that incorrectly compared crude marriage and divorce rates, leading to a misleading conclusion. In reality, more recent research shows that approximately 40% of marriages end in divorce, and this number has been steadily declining in recent years. Additionally, second marriages tend to be more stable than first marriages, challenging the notion that all marriages face the same likelihood of dissolution.

The myth of a 50% divorce rate oversimplifies a complex issue, said Mayeux. The truth is that divorce rates are much lower than most people think, and second marriages often face less risk than many assume.

Comprehensive Family Law Services for Gonzales, LA Families

Mayeux Law provides a range of family law services to help individuals and families in Gonzales navigate their legal challenges with confidence. Heres how we can assist:

Divorce & Custody Disputes: Expert representation for contested and uncontested divorces, as well as child custody and child support matters.

Expert representation for contested and uncontested divorces, as well as child custody and child support matters. Prenuptial Agreements: Helping couples safeguard their financial future with well-structured prenuptial agreements.

Helping couples safeguard their financial future with well-structured prenuptial agreements. Spousal Support & Paternity Actions: Offering legal support in spousal support matters and paternity cases.

Offering legal support in spousal support matters and paternity cases. Virtual Divorce Services: Providing modern, efficient solutions for divorce cases with virtual services tailored for todays digital world.

In Gonzales, where family law issues often carry emotional weight, Mayeux Law provides the support and professionalism necessary to help clients regain control of their lives.

Technology-Driven Family Law Services for the Modern Era

As technology continues to revolutionize industries, family law is no exception. A National Center for Family & Marriage Research study revealed that over 20% of divorces are now initiated online, highlighting the growing demand for digital solutions. Mayeux Law is leading the charge in offering virtual divorce services, allowing clients in Gonzales to handle their legal matters from the comfort of their own homes.

We know how important it is to offer convenience and flexibility for our clients, said Mayeux. By embracing technology, we can simplify the divorce process and help clients move forward with less stress, all while maintaining the highest standard of legal representation.

A Personal Approach to Family Law in Gonzales

Family issues are often deeply personal and emotional, Mayeux said. Our goal is to work closely with each client to develop legal strategies that are tailored to their specific needs. We dont just provide legal advicewe provide guidance and support, making sure our clients are informed and confident every step of the way.

At Mayeux Law, we are committed to making legal services more accessible and less overwhelming, she continued. We want to ensure that no one feels lost during their family law journey, and were here to offer the clarity and support they need to move forward.

Take the Next Step in Your Familys Legal Journey

Are you ready to take control of your familys legal situation? Contact Mayeux Law today for a free case review and discover how our team can help protect your familys future. Whether youre facing a divorce, a custody dispute, or need assistance with a prenuptial agreement, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Your Trusted Family Law Partner in Gonzales, LA

Mayeux Law remains a trusted family law attorney in Gonzales, providing compassionate legal services that prioritize the well-being of each client. With a proven track record of success and a deep commitment to the community, the firm is ready to help clients navigate their family law matters with confidence and clarity.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Kaitlin Mayeux, Founder

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (225) 229-4529

About Mayeux Law:

Mayeux Law, based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, specializes in family law, offering personalized legal solutions for clients facing divorce, custody disputes, prenuptial agreements, and other related matters. Led by attorney Kaitlin Mayeux, the firm provides compassionate and professional representation, ensuring the best possible outcomes for families during lifes toughest challenges.
The ongoing dispute between "Heart Signal 3" star Seo Min Jae and her boyfriend, Jung Rae Sung, has escalated into a legal battle following allegations of abuse and confinement, as well as accusations of stalking.

Seo Min Jae, also known as Seo Eun Woo, publicly announced her pregnancy and accused Jung Rae Sung of evading responsibility.

In response, Jung's legal team from Law Firm Roel issued a statement denying the allegations and providing their side of the story.

The law firm said Jung stayed in contact with Seo after learning of the pregnancy, discussed plans with her, and informed his parents about the situation.

Read more: Choi Daniel Apologizes to IU for Awkward Radio Farewell After 10 Years

The statement criticized Seo for posting Jung's personal information on Instagram and for actions that included persistent phone calls and honking at his residence.

"On or around April 30, 2025, she came to his residence and continuously honked her horn for about five minutes until he came outside," the statement said.

The legal representative also alleged that Seo Min Jae confined Jung at her residence against his will and physically assaulted him, prompting him to take legal action.

They further requested that Seo cease contacting Jung and warned that they are considering additional legal measures against defamatory comments made online about their client.

Seo Min Jae responded on social media, denying the accusations of stalking. "How is this stalking? I just wanted to talk, to discuss having the baby and raising it together," she wrote. "But now he's contacting me through a lawyer, saying he'll press criminal charges for stalking... Is he telling me to go die?"

The incident has generated headlines and galvanised public opinion, with many on Twitter waiting for further updates on the progress of the case.
China supports UN's central role in promoting global AI governance: envoy

Xinhua) 13:21, May 07, 2025

Fu Cong (R, front), China's permanent representative to the United Nations, speaks at a side event of the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building at the UN headquarters in New York, May 6, 2025. China will support the central role of the United Nations in promoting global artificial intelligence (AI) governance, a Chinese envoy said on Tuesday. AI, as a strategic technology leading the new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation, is profoundly reshaping people's work and life, said Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, at a side event of the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building. (Xinhua/Xie E)

UNITED NATIONS, May 6 (Xinhua) -- China will support the central role of the United Nations in promoting global artificial intelligence (AI) governance, a Chinese envoy said on Tuesday.

AI, as a strategic technology leading the new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation, is profoundly reshaping people's work and life, said Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, at a side event of the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building.

Fu said that in October 2023, China put forward the Global AI Governance Initiative, offering China's approach to global AI governance -- AI governance should be discussed by all, promoted by all, and the benefits of AI shared by all.

"Capacity-building has long been a cornerstone of global AI governance," said Fu.

He recalled that in July 2024, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) adopted by consensus the resolution tabled by China together with the core group on AI capacity-building. After that, China launched the AI Capacity-Building Action Plan for Good and for All, and initiated, together with Zambia, the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building. These efforts are aimed at fostering broad partnerships, and taking concrete steps to implement the UNGA resolution and the Global Digital Compact, so as to make sure that the benefits of digital transformation are enjoyed by all, and that no country and no one is left behind.

"When it comes to AI capacity-building cooperation, China not only leads with initiatives, but also with actions," he said.

Fu noted that since the adoption of the UNGA resolution, China have convened two productive seminars in Beijing and Shanghai, bringing together over 180 participants from more than 40 countries. The seminars have provided valuable platforms to share best practices and discuss the way forward for global AI governance.

In addition, last month, China and Zambia sent questionnaires on behalf of the Group of Friends to the broader UN membership and international organizations, to solicit their views and expectations for the Group, he said, adding that based on the feedback, China will hold regular Group of Friends activities to facilitate policy exchanges, knowledge sharing, and practical cooperation.

The ambassador reaffirmed China's commitment to promoting AI for good and for all. "We will continue to uphold fairness and inclusiveness, respect and protect the rights of developing countries to develop and utilize AI on an equal footing, champion collaborative governance, and support the central role of the UN in promoting global AI governance," he stressed.

"I am confident that with our concerted efforts, we will be able to contribute to a more inclusive development of AI that is beneficial to all," Fu said.

A side event of the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building is held at the UN headquarters in New York, May 6, 2025. China will support the central role of the United Nations in promoting global artificial intelligence (AI) governance, a Chinese envoy said on Tuesday. AI, as a strategic technology leading the new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation, is profoundly reshaping people's work and life, said Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, at a side event of the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building. (Xinhua/Xie E)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
Kennesaw State students, C-suite executives of Student Managed Investment Fund soon to begin finance careers

KENNESAW, Ga. | May 7, 2025

Hannah Hunt and Matthew Brown Equipped with robust internship experiences, the leaders of the Kennesaw State University Student Managed Investment Fund (SMIF) are full steam ahead into their careers after they graduate this week with Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance degrees.

SMIF CEO Matthew Brown and his second-in-command, COO Hannah Hunt, have landed jobs with competitive companies. Brown is headed to Colony Bank in Savannah, Georgia, for a two-year rotational analyst program that will allow him to see all sides of the banking operation. Hunt, meanwhile, will join JPMorgan Chase & Co. in its Atlanta office as an analyst.

Govind Hariharan, professor of economics, finance and quantitative analysis in the Coles College of Business and SMIF board chair, said both have excelled in the student organization, which provides real-time, hands-on experience in portfolio management and investing. SMIF, a limited liability company, consists of about 75 students across all levels, beginning with junior and senior analysts, who draft and present equity reports on which company stocks to buy.

Since SMIFs start in 2010, student members have been able to grow the initial $100,000 investment from Henssler Financial to just under $500,000.

Matt is one of the calmest leaders Ive encountered, Hariharan said. He excelled as a managing director, and is very efficient in getting things done. Overall, everybody just absolutely loves him.

Before accepting the offer at Colony Bank, Brown had internships with Henssler Financial and Monarch Private Capital. He is also the former president of the KSU Interfraternity Council, the governing body of the 13 mens social fraternities on campus, an experience that helped him land the CEO role at SMIF but also served as an entry point to engage with the diverse student population at KSU.

Brown saw his arrival at KSU as an opportunity to turn his life around, following a high school career he took less seriously, and to get involved where he could. While his original plan was to transfer after improving his GPA, Kennesaw State grew on him.

I fell in love with Kennesaw State and met an incredible group of people, Brown said. Joining SMIF and joining the fraternity changed my life completely. It motivated me to do better.

Hunt has juggled several roles in SMIF. In addition to COO, she serves as the human resources director, interviewing, hiring, and managing performance, and contributes as vice president of marketing. Since joining SMIF over two years ago, she has helped almost double the number of members and increase the organizations social media presence.

Hannah is fantastic, Hariharan said. She has been a significant contributor to the growth of the fund and the performance of its members, and she has a tremendous personality. Shes about the most cheerful person that you can come across.

Hunt has also been an active member of the KSU Student Government Association as a senator for the senior class.

Before accepting the offer at JPMorgan Chase & Co., she worked as a summer fellow for the company her sophomore year, spending two months in Houston and New York City, and continued to intern at other companies, including Alpha Creek Accounting and another round at JPMorgan. A mentor she found through SMIF, who had interned at JPMorgan, guided her through the internship application process.

I think its really important to find a mentor, especially at a university as large as KSU, when youre a little bit of a baby and havent necessarily branched out into social opportunities yet, Hunt said.

Hailing from the small town of Toccoa, Georgia, Hunt said KSU offered an affordable, diverse college experience, and her involvement in SMIF has connected her with invaluable resources, such as grant programs through the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid. Since graduating high school a year early, she has footed most of the bill to attend KSU, with some help from family.

It is such a blessing that I could get a quality education at an affordable price point, Hunt said. KSU has been the most rewarding experience I could have asked for. I didnt know what to expect, but I got more than I could have ever dreamed of  I have a job coming out of school. I have no debt.

Now, Hunt plans to purchase land to build a home.

Im very, very thankful for everything that KSU and SMIF has offered me, she said.

 Story by Amber Perry

Photos by Darnell Wilburn

Related Stories

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to its more than 47,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The universitys vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties, and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 8 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.






Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Joy Karwitha Kiugu made a grand entrance during her swearing-in ceremony that took place at Kinoru Stadium after being appointed as the new County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Lands, Housing, and Urban Development in Meru County.

She was ferried to the swearing-in ceremony in a chopper, capturing the attention of onlookers.

Karwitha's appointment has not been without controversy.

In December 2023, she was charged with stealing a Range Rover Evoque valued at KSh 3.2 million from her former employer, Revere Technologies Limited.

The alleged theft occurred on September 30th, 2023, at Crescent Business Centre in Nairobi.

Karwitha denied the charges, and her defense highlighted an ongoing High Court case concerning the ownership of the vehicle.

Despite the legal proceedings, Karwitha's appointment as CEC has been confirmed, and she has taken the oath of office.

Her entry into the political arena, marked by her dramatic arrival and the legal challenges she faces, has made her a notable figure in Meru County's current political landscape.

Watch the video.

JOY KARWITHA, the LADY who was charged with stealing her employers Range Rover, lands in a chopper for her swearing-in ceremony after being appointed Meru County Lands CEC pic.twitter.com/OAtIka0u7I  DAILY POST  (@dailypost_ke) May 7, 2025

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - A Nairobi lawyer, Esther Bitutu Kadiki, who is alleged to be the mastermind behind the Ksh 1.499 billion Equity Bank (Kenya) Limited heist, is set to appear in court for a hearing to determine whether she will be granted bond.

Kadiki, who has been remanded at Capitol Hill Police Station, is facing accusations of being a key member of a sophisticated criminal syndicate involved in high-level fraud.

According to the investigating officer, Inspector Chrispinus Sore Shibanda of the Banking Fraud Investigations Unit (BFIU), Kadiki played an integral role in planning and executing the scheme, benefiting both directly and through proxies.

The court was told that she was involved in recruiting targeted bank staff, penetrating the banks systems, and identifying proxy persons and companies used to launder stolen funds.

The court also heard that companies linked to Kadiki and eight of her associates pocketed Ksh 400 million out of the Ksh 1,499,465,831.29 that was siphoned from Equity Bank accounts between May 1st and July 31st.

Documents tabled before the court indicate that Kadiki recruited companies and individuals who acted as proxies, receiving the stolen funds into their accounts.

Some of the stolen money, the court was told, was funneled through NCBA Bank Kenya Limited and the National Bank of Kenya Limited (NBK), which collectively received Sh38,404,574.

BFIU investigators revealed that fraudulent transactions were made from Equity Banks internal Salaries Remittance General Ledger Account Number 0001\**100774, with the funds credited to various non-Equity Bank accounts.

Fictitious transaction narratives were entered into the banks systems to conceal the origin, location, and movement of the funds.

Investigators believe Kadiki holds crucial information that could reveal the full scope of the conspiracy behind the massive heist.

Via Cyprian Nyakundi.






Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Tensions escalated at the Talanta Stadium construction site in Nairobi when local workers confronted Chinese contractors over delayed payments.

The incident, captured on video, shows workers angrily demanding their dues, with some attempting to physically assault the contractors.

No money, no work, the disgruntled casual workers were heard lamenting.

The Talanta Stadium, located at Jamhuri Grounds, is a significant infrastructure project aimed at hosting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

The stadium, being constructed by the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), is expected to have a seating capacity of 60,000 and is slated for completion by the end of 2025.

Workers have been voicing concerns about unpaid wages and poor working conditions for some time.

Despite raising these issues with their supervisors, many claim that their grievances have gone unaddressed.

The situation reached boiling point when the workers, frustrated by the lack of payment, confronted the contractors, leading to the dramatic scenes captured in the video.

Watch the video.

No Money, No Work!! Drama unfolds at Talanta Stadium construction site as Kenyan workers confront Chinese contractors over unpaid wages pic.twitter.com/qMv9TRh7Ct  DAILY POST  (@dailypost_ke) May 7, 2025

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - In a stunning revelation, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has confirmed that investigations into the murder of Kasipul MP, Charles Ongondo Were, have implicated his close associates.

The MP's driver and bodyguard have been arrested in connection with the assassination.

According to Murkomen, the very people who were supposed to protect the slain MP betrayed him after collaborating with his killers.

Murkomen assured Kenyans that detectives probing the murder have made significant progress.

Weres bodyguard and driver were taken into custody on Tuesday night after giving conflicting statements about the events before and after the shooting of the MP.

The two were not injured when Were was fatally shot along Ngong Road.

Eyewitnesses reported that two gunmen on a motorcycle ambushed the MP's vehicle at the City Mortuary roundabout.

The pillion passenger approached the car and fired multiple shots at close range before fleeing the scene.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - The mother of slain Kasipul Member of Parliament Charles Were was overwhelmed with emotions at the Lee Funeral Home, where his body is being preserved.

She had joined mourners at the morgue to pick up the body for a requiem mass, ahead of his burial slated for Friday.

The elderly woman wailed uncontrollably, capturing the deep sorrow felt by many.

Were was fatally shot at the City Mortuary Roundabout in Nairobi, in what police believe to be a targeted assassination.

Despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after being rushed to Nairobi Hospital.

Weres murder has sparked widespread outrage and calls for a thorough investigation.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is actively pursuing leads, with four individuals arrested and arraigned in connection with the murder.

Slain MP CHARLES WEREs mother wails uncontrollably at the Lee Funeral Home pic.twitter.com/dbZbNqHwFK  DAILY POST  (@dailypost_ke) May 7, 2025

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - A man who walked all the way from Molo, Nakuru County, carrying a handcrafted chair as a gift for Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki, was turned away by security officers, with threats to destroy his chair and arrest him.

The man undertook the long journey on foot to personally deliver the chair to Prof. Kindiki, whom he described as his role model and a leader he deeply admires.

He reportedly wanted to thank him for the commendable job he did when he was the Interior Cabinet Secretary and praised his leadership skills.

He arrived at the heavily guarded offices, visibly tired but hopeful.

Clutching the wooden chair, he politely requested to see the DP or at least leave the gift at the reception.

However, security officers at the gate dismissed him, ordered him to leave the premises immediately, and allegedly threatened to break the chair and arrest him for loitering.

Despite being denied access, the man remains hopeful that he will meet Kindiki and deliver the gift to him.

Watch the video.

A man walks from Nakuru Molo carrying a chair that he made for prof Kithure Kindiki!! Security at the Dep Presidents office chased him away and locked him outside threatening to break his chair and arrest him!! pic.twitter.com/vjnCRiVBoq  Abdulahi Adan (@AbdulahiAdan10) May 6, 2025

The Kenyan DAILY POST
1 of 1

Women Officers Who Led the Narrative of Operation Sindoor: A New Chapter of Nari Shakti in the Armed Forces



khaskhabar.com : Wed, 07 May 2025 5:26 PM

By Sayed Habib, New Delhi In a historic and empowering moment, two women officers of the Indian Armed Forces came forward together to brief the media about the recently conducted air strikes, codenamed Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. This press briefing, held on Wednesday, marked the first time that female military officers jointly addressed the nation on such a significant military action. The operation was launched in response to the brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians. In the wake of this tragedy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had vowed strict action. Following through on that promise, the Indian Army struck nine terrorist hideouts in a precision operation carried out on the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday, inflicting heavy damage on the adversaries. Lieutenant Colonel Sophia Qureshi  The Frontline Commander Taking the lead at the press conference was Lieutenant Colonel Sophia Qureshi, a distinguished officer from the Indian Armys Signal Corps. She has long been a symbol of strength and pride for the nation. Notably, in 2016, she led the 40-member Indian contingent at the multinational military exercise Force 18 in Punebecoming the first woman officer from the Indian Army to do so. A native of Gujarat, Lt Col Qureshi holds a postgraduate degree in biochemistry. Her family has a strong military lineageher grandfather served in the army, and her husband is an officer in the Mechanized Infantry. She joined the army through the Short Service Commission at the age of just 17 in 1999. Her career also includes a six-year tenure in United Nations Peacekeeping Operations, with her service in Congo in 2006 earning special recognition. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh  The Sky Warrior Joining her on the stage was Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, a helicopter pilot in the Indian Air Force. Her very name, "Vyomika"meaning "connected to the sky"echoes her deep-rooted passion for flying. She began her journey through the NCC (National Cadet Corps) and earned a permanent commission in the Air Force's flying branch in 2019, after completing her engineering studies. Wing Commander Singh has logged over 2,500 hours of flying, undertaking numerous challenging missions in remote and high-altitude terrains of Jammu & Kashmir and Northeast India, flying aircraft such as the Chetak and Cheetah helicopters. Her rescue operation in Arunachal Pradesh in November 2020 was particularly commendable and earned her widespread praise. A Soaring Symbol of Nari Shakti The joint media appearance of these two officers during Operation Sindoor has sent a powerful message across the nationthat Indian women are not only safeguarding the country's borders but are also emerging as strategic leaders and skilled communicators in the armed forces. The Ministry of Defence, recognizing this proud moment, shared photographs of Lt Col Sophia Qureshi on its official social media handles, celebrating her role and achievements. Today, as the role of women in the Indian military continues to expand, Operation Sindoor stands as a shining testament to the capabilities and courage of India's daughters. They are no longer just participants in the battlefieldthey are leading it, commanding it, and shaping the future of the nations defence.
THIS May, US Senator Bernie Sanders and social worker and activist Jane OMeara Sanders will visit Athy to launch the next plaque in the Made of Athy series.

The event will take place in Athy on May 24 at St Michaels Cemetery at 4pm.

Jane traces her roots back to Athy and still has family locally. Janes family, the Coyles, left Athy in the 1850s. Jane has been life-long peace activist. She will joined on the day by her husband, Bernie Sanders, the American politician and activist who has served as the US Senator from Vermont since 2007.

Known for his progressive and democratic socialist views, Sanders has been a leading voice on issues such as income inequality, universal healthcare, climate change, and workers' rights. He gained national prominence during his presidential campaigns in 2016 and 2020, where he energised a large grassroots movement, particularly among younger voters.

Though he did not secure the Democratic nomination in either race, Sanders significantly influenced the partys platform and pushed mainstream discourse to the left. Prior to his Senate career, he served as the mayor of Burlington and as a US Representative.

The Made of Athy plaque will celebrate the anti-war song Johnny I Hardly Knew Ye, a song that still resonates today, 200 years after it was written:

You hadn't an arm, you hadn't a leg. You're a spineless, boneless, chickenless egg. You'll have to be put with the bowl to beg. johnny I hardly knew ya.

The song has been recorded by Bob Dylan, Janis Ian, The Clancy Brothers, the Drop Kick Murphys, even Maureen Ohara, and it has echoed through songs from The Cranberries, the Clash and PJ Harvey.

This project is supported by Kildare County Council and the Kildare Arts Office, the Bidens are guests of SIPTU and have helped organising this event.
ONE of the great figures of Kildare was deservedly acknowledged at the weekend for his efforts in promoting one of the countys most famous sons.

Frank Taaffe was presented with The Royal Scottish Geographical Society (RSGS) medal in furthering the fortunes of Athy and delivering the Shackleton Museum and Autumn School.

Mr Taaffe became the first Irish citizen to be awarded the Shackleton Medal when he was presented the honour by David C. Henry from the RSGS at the ceremony in his Athy home last Sunday.

Mr Henry read from a letter from the Falklands Islands that described the Shackleton School as the best Polar school in the world and because of his efforts in setting it up and promoting it, Frank, your name is honoured throughout the polar world.

Founded in 1884, there have only been 400 medals awarded by the RSGS, which was actually chaired by Ernest Shackleton himself in 1904.

This medal is given to those who show true leadership and citizenship, and Frank Taaffe is one of those people, said Mr Henry.

Frank Taaffe has fought for 40 years for this, and the Autumn School puts Athy on the map globally.

Frank had an enormous hand is setting up the Shackleton Museum, and all of those interested in this historic age.

When I got the letter (from the RSGS) I was absolutely astonished, said Mr Taaffe.

I couldnt believe my fame had got all the way to Dundee, he smiled.

When myself and Margret (granddaughter of Shackleton) started the school 25 years ago, we had little knowledge of how much global interest there was, and would bring thousands of people to Athy.

Joe O'Farrell one of the guest speakers

He reminded those gathered how much the former chief executive of Kildare County Council Peter Carey had to do with the original set-up.

He asked me is there anything you want, said Frank.

I said a statue, and he said leave it to me. Within a year we had it, made by Mark Richards, one of the finest sculptors in the country.

He added: There was some controversy putting up the statue of an Englishman, but it brought people to the town.

Then Eugene Furlong told us about the cabin in which he (Shackleton) died, and it was in a farm in Norway.

He went for this at his own expense, and they agreed to sell it to us.

Kevin Kenny, Minister Martin Heydon, Aoife Breslin, David Henry, Frank Taaffe, Joe Farrell, Seamus Taaffe and Mark McLean

Mr Taaffe continued: Kevin was able to do a deal with the freight company, and he was so excited Joe Farrell (local historian) drove to Norway and drove home behind the lorry. Kevin (Kenny, local historian) even asked to sleep in the cabin.

The county council said theyd take over the running of the museum, because a small private body was not really able to, but I asked if we could have polar experts (Kevin & Joe) and Peter Carey involved.

Mr Taaffe concluded: I feel now it will be a great financial asset for the town.

Judge Desmond Zaidan, Frank Taaffe, Richard Wicksted and Jackie McManus

Mr Henry added his admiration for Mr Taaffe.

Given the time left to me, we of the Shackleton committee are delighted that Frank is being honoured by this.

When you think of the temerity and audacity to open the school, when they didnt think thered be a second year, never mind a 25th.
IN a very sad example of the system working as it should, an orphaned Ukrainian war refugee in Kildare was persuaded to go to her schools guidance counsellor to report physical abuse from her guardian, and two days later a judge granted an emergency care order.

This difficult case was heard behind closed doors in front of Judge John Brennan in Naas District Court, without the necessity of the child having to be present.

A solicitor for Tusla, the Child and Family Agency (CFA), told the court that she was applying for an Section 13 extension on the Section 12 emergency care order that was originally granted two days previously.

The technical difference is that the two gardai whose word was enough to grant the original care order were unable to attend the extension hearing due to other commitments, so the state was applying under Section 13, where the testimony of the childs key workers could suffice.

The CFA solicitor told the court how the childs two parents were dead and that the guardian was testamentary, that is someone who made a promise to the childs dying mother to take care of her. The solicitor alleged physical and verbal abuse, and called on the social worker with whom the child confides.

Aideen Connolly explained how her office had got a call from the childs school head concerned about abuse on a child.

The (named child) disclosed physical abuse, name-calling  and refused to go home to the guardian, and did not feel safe in this environment, said Ms Connolly.

We went to the garda station for an Section 12 application for an emergency care order, but neither of those guards can be here today due to other commitments, she said.

And the nature of the alleged abuse? asked the judge.

(Named child) took an Easter egg, and (named guardian) pushed them against a bed resulting in an alleged bruise, but I didnt see that, said Ms Connolly.

There are also allegations of being slapped regularly, and lots of verbal abuse.

Ms Connolly told how the guardian also alleged that because of their status here, they could be sent back to the war zone, and the child thought this meant theyd be sent back on their own.

Next up was the schools guidance counsellor who cant be named, but corroborated Ms Connolly and added a detail to the alleged emotional abuse.

The (named guardian) would get angry at meals, saying: you eat like a pig, alleged the guidance counsellor.

The counsellor revealed the child alleged they were forced into punishment push-ups and was slapped on the face when refused.

Humiliation on the press-ups was my opinion, said the counsellor; however, she agreed with David Powderly  solicitor for the guardian  who put it to her that: There has to be a line drawn between what they told you and what your inferences were?

The counsellor told the court the child has not since returned to school, but also that there had been no deterioration in the school work  and (named child) is a very hard worker, a very quiet child, mostly found at the bottom of the stairs, but has made a friend who encouraged them to come forward.

After coming to speak with me they seemed happier, said the counsellor.

The grades are good and my client does not want to force (named child) to do something they dont want to do, said Mr Powderly.

I do accept there is a degree of danger, and these are extraordinary circumstances involved, but we have no evidence of (named child) being affected by whats happened, said the judge.

Okay, they say theyre afraid, but are getting good grades ... But the evidence here cant be contradicted.

Fears of a return to Ukraine, press-ups, slapping, and not just slight pushing, but putting hands on that caused the child to fall over and get bruises, so Im satisfied there are concerns for (named child) and I think they should continue to stay away from the guardians residence, he concluded.

The judge granted the extension for another week until 8 May.
Jordan Auctioneers have just launched to the market 22 acres of top-quality land on the edge of Kildare Town with excellent long-term high -density development potential. The property is located in the townsland of Dunmurry West approximately 2km north of Kildare Town. The lands are accessed via a series of local roads which connect the surrounding hinterland with the various towns and villages. The property is 4km from the M7 Motorway (Junction 13) and is also with easy reach of Newbridge (9.5km) and The Curragh (4km).

The entire land extends to a total area of circa 8.91 hectares (22 acres). The property is currently located outside any zoned area or settlement boundary. It is however, less than 400 metres from the Kildare Town Development Plan 2023  2029 boundary giving excellent long-term high -density development potential.

The lands have frontage onto the local road and are laid out in three well sized divisions with natural boundaries and hedgerows. The entire is topographically level and extends in east  west direction. They are classified as Elton series in the soils map of Ireland which are described as some of the best in the Country. There are panoramic views towards The Curragh Racecourse and Wicklow Mountains with the steeple of St. Brigids Cathedral and Round Tower also visible in the distance.

The lands are for Auction on Thursday 5 June 2025 in the Keadeen Hotel, Newbridge and Jordans are issuing a guide price of 450,000. Further information is available from Liam Hargaden or Clive Kavanagh on 045  433550.
Design & Crafts Council Ireland (DCCI) will host an 'in conversation with internationally acclaimed Irish designer, Orla Kiely', on Wednesday, May 14, from 4.30pm - 5.30pm, at the Set Theatre in Kilkenny.

Kiely is currently reflecting on her iconic exhibition, A Life in Pattern, currently showing at DCCIs National Design & Craft Gallery in Kilkenny City.

Curated by Dennis Nothdruft, Head of Exhibitions at the Fashion and Textile Museum in London, A Life in Pattern celebrates the bold, graphic style and instantly recognisable motifs that have made Kiely one of the most influential figures in contemporary design.

READ NEXT: Two Kilkenny schools set to become one, with amalgamation imminent

From handbags and wallpaper to homewares and fashion, her work is a testament to the beauty of pattern and its power to transform the everyday.

Orla will be joined on stage by Dennis where she will delve into the stories behind her most beloved designs, sharing insights into her creative journey, design process, and enduring inspirations.

In conversation, Dennis and Orla will talk about the making of the exhibition, their collaboration, and the evolution of her signature aesthetic.

Dennis Nothdruft has led the exhibitions team at the Fashion and Textile Museum since it was founded by Zandra Rhodes in 2003.

Before that, he worked for many years as a design assistant in Zandra Rhodes studios in both San Diego and London.

An experienced curator and lecturer, Dennis has spoken widely on fashion and textiles and is the author of several acclaimed books, including Zandra Rhodes: 50 Fabulous Years in Fashion, How to Draw Like a Fashion Designer, How to Draw Vintage Fashion, and Kaffe Fassett: The Artists Eye.

Whether you're a designer, student, or simply a lover of print and pattern, this exciting event is sure to entertain with two creative powerhouses.

Tickets (available via the Set Theatre) cost 10 and all proceeds will be donated to the Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre.

FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS, CLICK HERE
The father of a little boy with a rare illness has made a heartfelt appeal for the HSE to fund treatment in America  before his son ends up confined to a wheelchair for life.



Will Moore is just four years old and he suffers from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)  a condition so rare just 110 people in Ireland are thought to be living with the condition.



DMD was, until very recently, a fatal illness. Life expectancy was about 20 years. However, a new treatment in America has been proven to halt the progress of the disease in its tracks and Wills family are begging the HSE to fund their sons treatment.



He has been accepted on to the treatment programme - but at a cost of $3.5 to $4 million.

The HSE Treatment Abroad Scheme only covers treatment in the EU, UK and Switzerland so Philip and Veronica, Wills parents, are appealing to An Taoiseach Micheal Martin to get the HSE to help their boy. Scroll down to read on...

ABOVE: Veronica, Will and Philip. Picture: Harry Reid

Local TD, Natasha Newsome Drennan, brought the familys plea directly to An Taoiseach, when she raised the case in the Dail, and asked that the Minister for Health liaise with the HSE on the matter.



In the Dail, An Taoiseach said that he thinks the child should get treatment and if its only available in the US we should be doing something about that.



But at this stage there is no word from the HSE on funding the treatment and with DMD time is of the essence to prevent Wills further deterioration. Click the NEXT arrows to read on, and find out how you can help.
Shenandoah, IA (51601)

Today

Light rain this morning with thunderstorms developing for the afternoon. Gusty winds and small hail are possible. High 86F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms during the evening. Partly cloudy skies after midnight. Low 67F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
COLUMBIA  Boone County commissioners on Tuesday scrapped a proposal to put an outdoor warning siren on Roemer Road following months of public discussion and opposition from residents.

The siren was originally proposed as part of a larger effort to address gaps in emergency coverage across rapidly growing areas of the county, including North Creasy Springs and Miller Road.

The commission voted 2-1 not to proceed with the siren on Roemer Road.

The Boone County Commission approved sirens in three other locations: one near Brown Station Road, another on Fenton Road, and one on Kircher Road.

You have to take concerns under consideration, Presiding Commissioner Kip Kendrick said, but also look at whats in the best interest of the county as a whole.

Emergency Management Director Chris Kelly previously identified the Roemer Road site as a strategic location that could serve multiple under-covered areas. But some residents pushed back, saying they already hear sirens clearly.

We have not once ever had a problem hearing the sirens, resident Amy Rosenfeld said. In fact, a few weeks ago when there was a tornado coming through Columbia, we could clearly hear the sirens. Every Wednesday on the first Wednesday of the month, we could hear it very clearly.

The county's map of outdoor warning siren coverage shows much of Roemer Road is not in any siren's coverage radius.

Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request.

Rosenfeld also raised environmental concerns, noting the area is ecologically sensitive and home to migratory birds and protected wildlife.

Neighbors concerned over noise levels of proposed Roemer Road siren Roemer Road residents threatened to sue the county if an outdoor warning siren is put in their neighborhood.

Some Roemer Road residents had even threatened to pursue a class-action lawsuit against the county if the siren plan was approved.

Following Tuesdays vote, Kendrick acknowledged the need to reevaluate.

The ability for emergency management to go back out and try to find some alternative locations that will cover those roads in the coverage area that we expect to continue to see growth in the county... that will be important for us to make sure that we meet the public safety needs."

Commissioners emphasized this is not the end of the conversation  just a pause.

Were confident that in the next few weeks, well see improvements to the system, Kendrick said.
If you're going through Jefferson City to the Lake of the Ozarks this summer, officials recommend taking a different route than U.S. 54 through the city.

A segment of U.S. 54 in Jefferson City, south of Business U.S. 50, is narrowed to one lane in each direction, and two ramps in the area are closed.

This traffic shift for bridge rehabilitation work is expected to cause significant delays. Those traveling to Lake of the Ozarks are encouraged to use an alternate route, while local traffic is advised to avoid peak hours.

Example alternate routes include:

For travelers from the north (such as Moberly or Macon): Take U.S. 63 south to Interstate 70 west to either Missouri 5 or Missouri 87.

For travelers from the northeast (such as Hannibal): Take U.S. 61 south to Missouri 47 to Interstate 44 to Missouri 7.



For travelers from the east (such as the St. Louis region): Take Interstate 44 to Route 7, or I-44 to U.S. 50 to Missouri 28 to Route 42.



An 11-foot width restriction and speed reductions as low as 35 mph are in place on U.S. 54 in Jefferson City. These impacts are expected to last as long as mid-October.
The US Supreme Court Building is seen on Capitol Hill on February 12 in Washington, DC. The Supreme Court said on May 6 that the Trump administration can begin immediately enforcing a ban on transgender service members in the military.
Trump says he is directing Bureau of Prisons to reopen Alcatraz to house ruthless and violent offenders
Yes, by at least $1

Yes, by $2 or more

No

Vote

View Results
Xi says friendship forged with blood, lives inexhaustible source of China-Russia amity

Xinhua) 13:31, May 07, 2025

MOSCOW, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said that the profound friendship forged with blood and lives in the World Anti-Fascist War has become an inexhaustible source of the everlasting amity between China and Russia.

Xi made the remarks in a signed article published Wednesday by the Russian Gazette newspaper ahead of his arrival in Russia for a state visit and the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War.

Noting that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victories of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War and the World Anti-Fascist War, as well as the founding of the United Nations, Xi said that together with the heroic Russian people, he will honor the past and pay tribute to the martyrs.

Xi said that all those who made great contributions to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War -- from generals to soldiers -- will never be forgotten, noting that the people of China and Russia fought side by side and supported each other during the war.

Eighty years ago, just forces all over the world, including China and the Soviet Union, united to fight a common enemy and triumphed over fascism, Xi said.

Today, eight decades later, unilateralism, hegemony and acts of bullying are inflicting severe harm, and humanity once again stands at a crossroads -- between unity or division, dialogue or confrontation, win-win or zero-sum, he added.

The world must take history as a mirror, draw wisdom and strength from the profound lessons of World War II and the great victory in the World Anti-Fascist War, resolutely oppose all forms of hegemonism and power politics, and jointly create a brighter future for humanity, Xi said.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
Sarah Slater

An Irish woman detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) last month after returning from a visit to Ireland to see her ill father is to be released following a court appearance earlier today.

Cliona Ward, 54, a green-card holder, who has been living legally there for around 30 years, first ran into legal trouble in March after arriving back in the US from a trip to Ireland to visit her father in Youghal, Co Cork who is living with dementia.

Ms Ward, whose green card is valid until 2033, was detained and questioned by customs at the San Francisco airport on March 19th over her past criminal record.

Her prior criminal record includes six cases - two felonies for possession of drugs in December 2007 and January 2008, and four misdemeanours.

She and her sister Orla Holladay, who also lives in the US, claimed her convictions were expunged however, prompting customs to temporarily release her to obtain the appropriate documentation to prove that her records had been cleared in California.

When she went to plead her case at San Francisco airport Customs on April 21st and present proof of her expungement, she was detained once more and told to argue her case in front of an immigration judge.

On Wednesday, Ms Ward's Washington state-based attorney Erin Hall, said that an application was made in California on Friday last for the original convictions to be formally vacated in a manner that would be recognised at a federal level.

A California judge agreed to the application, which allowed Ms Hall to subsequently file a motion to terminate the immigration proceedings.

A GoFundme page has been set up by her sister, Orla to cover legal costs.

Ms Ward, a mother of one son, appeared in court in Seattle at 8.30 am local time (Irish time 4.30 pm) and in an update on the fundraising page, Clionas Hope: A Mothers Fight for Freedom, Ms Hollady said that the charity group her sister works with are organising protests for her preliminary court hearing.

Ms Ward is a caregiver for her son Malachi, who is an American citizen, and chronically ill.

On Wednesday, a judge at the Tacoma Immigration Court signed an order ending the removal proceedings against Ms Ward.

Another sister of Ms Ward, Tracey Ward told RTE that the development is a "huge, huge relief."

"I was trying to maintain hope today but I know how the system works over there so I was very fearful for her. I'm just completely relieved," she said.

"The outpouring of love worldwide that we've received has been absolutely unbelievable.

Democrat California Representatives Jimmy who has supported and been calling for Ms Wards release said in a statement on social media:

"Im proud to share that Cliona Ward, a 30-year legal permanent resident of Santa Cruz County, will be released after being detained and threatened with deportation.
THE hugely popular annual Music at the Malthouse festival makes a welcome return to Stradbally this year.

Presented by Music Generation Laois the annual festival showcases partnerships between musicians from Music Generation Laois, the Laois School of Music and guest artists.

This year it takes place on Saturday and Sunday 10 and 11 May in the Malthouse venue in Stradbally.

Pictured last year performing at the Music Generation Laois, Music at The Malt House Concert. Photo: Alf Harvey.

The event kicks off on Saturday at 7pm with a concert featuring Music Generation Laois Ensembles with special guests. This will feature virtuoso Scottish harper Catriona McKay with the Music Generation Laois Harp Ensemble. Cathy Jordan (Dervish) and Filipe Carbonell (No Crows) will perform alongside the Music Generation Laois Trad Orchestra. Johnny Og Connolly (TG4 Gradam Ceoil Composer of the Year 2025) will also play with the Music Generation Laois Trad Group.

The Music Generation Laois Trad Orchestra with Martin Tourish and Triona Marshall at last year's Music Generation Laois, Music at The Malt House. Photo: Alf Harvey.

The BOP Orchestra (Building Orchestral Pathways) will take to the stage on Sunday at 2pm.

BOP is a collective orchestra project featuring young and adult musicians from Music Generation Laois, Laois School of Music, Music Generation Offaly, Academy of Music Tullamore, and Music Generation Westmeath under the direction of musician educators from across Music Generation programmes in Laois, Offaly and Westmeath. The guest conductor will be Diane Daly from the Irish Chamber Orchestra. The music programme will include Beethoven, Brahms and popular pieces.

Ensembles also feature on the Sunday afternoon and include The Dunamaise Strings, a new adult string ensemble from Laois School of Music, Tullamore Academy String Ensemble which is made up of young musicians and adults from Academy of Music Tullamore and Music Generation Westmeath's Flute Ensemble.
THE Travelling community in Laois is calling for youth work schemes to better meet the needs of their young people.

According to a recent survey carried out by the Irish Traveller Movement (ITM), the majority of Traveller organisations do not receive any funding for youth work and as such traveller youth under-represented in funding of youth work.

The survey, of both Traveller specific and mainstream youth services, has encouraged Laois Traveller Action Group to call for improved mapping of youth work funding to better meet the needs of one of the most marginalised groups of young people.

Speaking at the launch of the survey Laois Traveller Action Group Community Development and Youth Worker Brian Byrne said he has seen first-hand the transformative impact of targeted youth work.

He said: Young Travellers face significant barriers in education, employment and social inclusion. Without proper investment, we risk leaving another generation behind. Youth work provides not just support, but also hope, opportunity, and a sense of belonging.

One young Traveller Dolly Nevin spoke at the launch and told of how her life has been transformed through youth work.

She said: Youth work gave me the support and space I needed to believe in myself. It helped me realise that I could make a difference  not just in my own life, but in the lives of others too. Young Travellers face so many challenges  discrimination, lack of opportunity and barriers in education and employment. Youth work gives us a chance to be heard, to grow, and to lead. Youth work changes lives. Im living proof of that.

The majority of funding for youth work programmes comes through the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (UBU) programme  which targets disadvantaged, marginalised and vulnerable young people.

The survey found that while Traveller organisations were more active at engaging with Traveller youth than mainstream youth services (53%) receive no funding for youth work.

The ITM said the survey highlighted that young Travellers need to have equitable opportunities to culturally competent youth work spaces  whether a Traveller specific space, or a mainstream youth work space.

ITMs coordinator of the National Traveller Youth Programme Rose Marie Maughan said: The decision-making and allocation of youth work funding should respond to the fact that Traveller youth are a key target group who have a high level of tailored needs due to decades of social exclusion and experiencing anti-Traveller racism in all aspects of their young lives.

It should allocate funds accounting for the population of Travellers per county (based on the Annual Counts of Travellers), as well as within the context of the broader youth population. For example, the survey found Connaught received an allocation of just 7% of the UBU funding, while 17% of Travellers live in the province. This needs to change and be better targeted so that the needs of young Travellers are met.

ITM is calling on the UBU programme to resource Traveller youth workers in all counties. And also for positive recruitment of Traveller youth workers in mainstream youth work services, in order to increase engagement with the local Traveller organisations.
AN EMPLOYEE of the Prison Service who is applying to join the gardai was convicted of motoring offences at last weeks sitting of Portlaoise District Court.

Christpher Doolan (31) from Belclare Avenue, Poppintree, Ballymun was summoned before the court for driving without insurance and for having no NCT on 7 November last at the M7 at Morette.

Defending barrister Anne Doyle said the vehicle that Mr Doolan was driving on that day was the secondary family car and he had been attending a training course.

She said that he was advertising the car for sale at the time and had not put it through for an NCT test.

Ms Doyle said that her client is an employee of the Prison Service and is applying to join An Garda Siochana. He is coming to court with his hands up and is very remorseful. He is hoping to be left without a conviction, which could have grave implications for his future plans.

Judge Susan Fay convicted Mr Doolan of driving without insurance and fined him 750, and 200 for having no NCT.

She said that she would use her discretion and not impose a driving disqualification.
Film Critic

What do you do after youve made yet another beautiful film in a career defined  some might say stymied  by an obsessive devotion to beauty?

If youre Wes Anderson, the writer-director behind such meticulously crafted art-house miniatures as Moonrise Kingdom and The Grand Budapest Hotel, maybe you try giving ugliness a chance. Or rather, you set yourself the challenge of making ugliness beautiful, of finding ravishment in a bleak dystopian panorama strewn with toxic waste sites, abandoned factories and towering heaps of rubbish.

Being Wes Anderson, you then cobble together a story in which the underdogs populating this grim landscape are actual dogs, voiced by a human cast that includes several regular collaborators (Bill Murray, Jeff Goldblum, etc.) and given form and movement by astonishingly lifelike canine puppets. And because all this is taking place in Japan, you fill the frame with references to Kabuki theater, sumo wrestling, haiku poetry, the paintings of Katsushika Hokusai and the films of Akira Kurosawa  all set to a dramatic chorus of taiko drumbeats that is merely one element of Alexandre Desplats ever-surprising score.

Advertisement

Thats as close as I can get to providing an aesthetic rationale for Isle of Dogs, Andersons madly eccentric ninth feature and his second foray into animation after 2009s Fantastic Mr. Fox. But the effort is probably futile: If there is a reason to cherish this often captivating, sometimes irritating, unavoidably perplexing movie, its that its mere existence seems to defy rational explanation. It is by turns savage and soulful, mangy and refined, possessed of an unmistakable pedigree and yet boldly resistant to categorization. Its a shaggy Frankenmutt of a movie, dressed in artisanal fur and infested by bespoke fleas.

In Fantastic Mr. Fox, the slow, painstaking animation process seemed, if anything, to accelerate Andersons narrative energies and liberate his visual imagination. Stop-motion, which requires an invisible, all-controlling hand to create the illusion of fluidity, was an intuitive medium for this most exacting of directors and his intricate, diorama-like sensibility. On a pure frame-by-frame basis, Isle of Dogs is a triumph of invention and micro-detail, a bravura showcase for cinematographer Tristan Olivers impeccable widescreen compositions and the ingenious bento-box elegance of Adam Stockhausen and Paul Harrods production design. For better and for worse, its Wes Anderson unleashed.

Advertisement

The plot is basically Mad Max: Furry Road. It begins some 20 years in the future, in the fictional Megasaki City, where the powerful, pro-feline Kobayashi dynasty has long waged war against mans best friend. (Cat lovers might chafe at that, but well get to the films representational issues in a moment.) Amid a city-wide epidemic of dog flu, the scheming Mayor Kobayashi (voiced by Kunichi Nomura) has ordered that the afflicted animals be deported to a floating pre-apocalyptic wasteland called Trash Island.

These dogs are  forgive me  a pretty pugnacious bunch. When they fight, which is often, they kick up a giant white cloud that resembles an exploding cotton-ball factory. Theres a lot to fight about on Trash Island, where disease runs rampant, food is scarce and danger lurks behind every turn. But there is still goodness to be found in the wide eyes and battered hearts of these abandoned canines, namely Rex (Edward Norton), King (Bob Balaban), Boss (Murray) and Duke (Goldblum), who come to the rescue of a 12-year-old boy pilot, Atari Kobayashi (Koyu Rankin), when his plane crash-lands on their island.

Atari, the mayors rebellious, brave-hearted nephew, is the only Megasaki resident loyal enough to have come back for his beloved dog  in this case, a short-haired oceanic speckle-eared sport hound named Spots (Liev Schreiber). When Spots is nowhere to be found, Atari is aided in his seemingly hopeless mission by the aforementioned friendly foursome, and also, reluctantly, by a grouchy stray named Chief (Bryan Cranston), who opposes domestication of any kind.

Advertisement

What happens next in this clever, multi-chaptered story (which Anderson conceived with Roman Coppola, Jason Schwartzman and Nomura) will surprise no one familiar with the writer-directors work. New friendships are cemented and dastardly political conspiracies are exposed. Young people are shown to possess the kind of integrity and courage that shames the so-called grown-ups in their midst. Theres a hint of mongrel romance between Chief and a posh show dog named Nutmeg (Scarlett Johansson), and prescient visions courtesy of a TV-addicted pooch named Oracle (Tilda Swinton).

There are also isolated moments of human-dog bonding, some of them hauntingly scored to the West Coast Pop Art Experimental Bands I Wont Hurt You, that transform these canines from mere puppets into deep repositories of soul. These moments of stillness feel essential in a movie that is otherwise happy to overwhelm you with narrative incident and textural detail; in some ways, Andersons battle-ready Kurosawa tribute cries out to be tempered by the more contemplative spirit of a filmmaker like Kenji Mizoguchi.

Its in Andersons handling of the storys humans that his sensitivity falters, and the weakness for racial stereotyping that has sometimes marred his work.

Some, of course, will be offended by the mere invocation of these Japanese cinema giants in this particular context. The ever-contentious subject of cultural appropriation has haunted Isle of Dogs since before its recent premiere at the Berlin International Film Festival, where Anderson won a directing prize. Bluntly put, does this white American filmmakers highly selective, idiosyncratic rendering of an East Asian society constitute a sincere act of homage, or a clueless failure of sensitivity?

For what its worth, every one of Andersons films is an act of imaginative plundering  a crazy-quilt of popular touchstones and personal influences, tailored to a specific milieu, designed to flatter his sophistication and the viewers as well. Andersons appreciation of Japanese culture is nothing if not wide-ranging: While its no surprise to see him repurpose screen painting and pagoda architecture as superior design elements, his movie shows an admirable willingness to embrace the weird, the unnerving and the grotesque.

And besides, arent those dogs amazing? They are indeed. But tellingly, its in the directors handling of the storys human factor that his sensitivity falters, and the weakness for racial stereotyping that has sometimes marred his work comes to the fore.

Advertisement

Anderson, a stickler for verisimilitude even in the weirdest situations, has the human residents of Megasaki City speak their native Japanese, a choice that would seem respectful enough except for the conspicuous absence of English subtitles. Much of the Japanese dialogue, especially Ataris, has been pared down to simple statements that non-speakers can figure out based on context and facial expressions; longer, more complicated exchanges are translated aloud by a handy on-screen English interpreter (Frances McDormand).

The dogs, for their part, all speak clear American English, which is ridiculous, charming and a little revealing. You can understand why a writer as distinctive as Anderson wouldnt want his droll way with the English language to get lost in translation. But all these coy linguistic layers amount to their own form of marginalization, effectively reducing the hapless, unsuspecting people of Megasaki to foreigners in their own city. Their assumed passivity is further underscored by the singularly unfortunate character of Tracy Walker (Greta Gerwig), an American foreign-exchange student who becomes the angry, heroic voice of Megasakis pro-dog resistance. At one point, she even smacks down a scientist voiced by Yoko Ono. (Yoko Ono!)

I can hear your indignant protests already: This isnt really Japan, stupid. Its Wes Anderson Land, and everyone here ultimately speaks his language and his language alone. I get it. I like Wes Anderson Land; its always a fun place to visit. But some parts are less fun than others, and what we see of it in Isle of Dogs is finally ugly in ways beyond what even its maker could have intended.

------------

Isle of Dogs

(In English and Japanese)

Rating: PG-13, for thematic elements and some violent images

Running time: 1 hour, 40 minutes

Playing: In general release

Movie Trailers

justin.chang@latimes.com | Twitter: @JustinCChang
On 6 May Argentinas Public Security Ministerannounced she had joined Presidents far-right La Libertad Avanza, sparking criticism from her former party, the right-of-centre Propuesta Republicana (PRO).

End of preview - This article contains approximately 402 words.

Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article

Not a Subscriber?

Choose from one of the following options
On 6 May a five-judge panel of Brazils supreme court (STF) officially declared seven more suspects as defendants in the high-profile case relating to an alleged coup plot to overturn the 2022 election defeat of former president(2019-2023).

End of preview - This article contains approximately 402 words.

Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article

Not a Subscriber?

Choose from one of the following options
On 6 May US Secretary of Stateannounced the rescue of Venezuelan dissidents who had been sheltering at the Argentine embassy in Caracas since March 2024.

End of preview - This article contains approximately 542 words.

Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article

Not a Subscriber?

Choose from one of the following options
Bethlehem police on Tuesday afternoon surrounded a property in the 3300 block of Lehigh Avenue. A 48-year-old man with active arrest warrants fled inside the home, Bethlehem Township Police Capt. Shaun Powell told lehighvalleylive.com. Pamela Sroka-Holzmann | For lehighvalleylive.com

A man with active arrest warrants fled inside a Bethlehem Township home Tuesday afternoon as officers surrounded the property in search of him, police said.

A total of at least five arrest warrants have been filed for the 48-year-old man from Bethlehem.
Another two Netflix shows have bit the dust. AP

Do you know the fate of your favorite Netflix series?

The Australian neo-western drama Territory and the Noah Centineo-led spy adventure The Recruit have both been canceled ahead of the 2025-2026 season. Territory had just one season, while The Recruit had two.

It is what it is, Centineo, who played CIA lawyer Owen Hendricks, told the Hollywood Reporter of The Recruits cancelation. Netflix, they have a certain mandate that they need to fill, and Im very proud of the show, very grateful to our audience. We have a pretty strong cult following. And with Netflix, it just didnt really fit what it was that they needed, I suppose. And so on to the next, I guess.

Which Netflix shows are renewed for 2025-2026?

While Territory and The Recruit didnt make the cut, plenty of other Netflix shows have been greenlit for another season.

The Empress, Sandman, Billy the Kid, Outer Banks Big Mouth, Survival of the Thickest, and The Witcher were all renewed for a final season, meaning they will come to an end after their upcoming next chapters.

Other confirmed Netflix renewals include:

READ MORE: See the 4 shows Peacock canceled before the 2025-2026 season

Netflix series including No Good Deed, I Think You Should Leave With Tim Robinson, Indian Matchmaking, The Circle, and Is It Cake have yet to be renewed for additional seasons.

In April, Netflix announced that the coming-of-age series Heartstopper will wrap up with a movie rather than a fourth season.

I am completely overjoyed that we will get to tell the end of the Heartstopper story, series creator Alice Oseman said in a statement. Im so grateful to everyone who has worked hard to make this possible and to the incredible fans of Heartstopper for your patience and passion. I cannot wait to bring this story to a magical conclusion.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips/.
An Easton man then employed by Chipotle Mexican Grill is accused of an overnight break-in at the Lower Nazareth eatery and making off with over $1,800 in cash.

Richard Michael Boos, 23, of the 100 block of North Third Street, is charged with felony burglary; misdemeanor theft; and misdemeanor receiving stolen property.

A warrant for Boos arrest has been filed by Colonial Regional police at the office of District Judge John Capobianco.
A Bethlehem man who stole more than 150 guns was sent to federal prison Tuesday, according to a news release and court documents.

Ismael Terrero-Terrero, 22, was sentenced to three years and four months in prison for the thefts in 2023, according to the U.S. Attorneys office.

Only 14 of the guns were recovered from Terrero-Terreros home, according to records. Twenty-one of the guns were recovered by police in Allentown, Connecticut, Miami, northern New Jersey, New York City, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. Many of them were used to commit crimes or were found at crime scenes, authorities said.
The U.S. State Department updated its travel advisory to Indonesia, warning travelers not to travel to certain parts of the country due to "violent unrest" in those areas. Canva/Katherine Rodriguez

If youre planning a trip to this Southeast Asian vacation destination anytime soon, take note that there are some parts of the country where you shouldnt travel.

The U.S. State Department updated its travel advisory to Indonesia, warning travelers not to travel to certain parts of the country due to violent unrest in those areas.

Heres what you need to know if you still plan on traveling to Indonesia.

What does the latest travel advisory to Indonesia mean for you?

Item Detail Start Date April 30, 2025 Whats changing Updated travel advisory urging travelers to exercise increased caution throughout the country due to terrorism and natural disasters and do not travel to Central Papua (Papua Tengah) and Highland Papua (Papua Pegunungan) due to civil unrest What will happen? Travelers should monitor local media and avoid demonstrations and crowds, as armed separatists may kidnap foreign nationals. Who will it affect? Travelers to Indonesia

The agency gave a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution advisory to Indonesia due to terrorism and natural disasters, noting that some areas have an increased risk.

The State Department especially warned people to not travel to Central Papua (Papua Tengah) and Highland Papua (Papua Pegunungan) due to civil unrest.

What is the highest travel advisory?

There are four levels of travel advisory, Level 1 through Level 4. When planning a vacation, you should check the current travel advisory for that destination.

Level 1 : Exercise Normal Precautions  This is the lowest level of advisory; it is advised that there is some risk in that area, and travelers should take precautions while on their visit.

Level 2 : Exercise Increased Caution  There is a heightened risk for safety and security in that area, and travelers need to take extra caution.

Level 3 : Reconsider Travel  There are serious risks to safety, and travelers are advised to reconsider their travel plans to this destination.

Level 4: Do Not Travel  This is the highest level of advisory, and it is strongly recommended not to travel to any destinations with a Level 4 advisory, due to many factors, one of which is that the U.S. government might not be able to provide travelers any assistance in the event of an emergency.

What should travelers to Indonesia do in light of this travel advisory?

The U.S. State Department warns travelers who are planning to travel to Indonesia to do the following:

Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.

Visit the websites for Badan Geologi (Indonesian Geological Agency, Indonesian language only) for the latest information from the Government of Indonesia on current natural disasters.

Review the CDCs suggestions on how to prepare for natural disasters.

Be aware of your personal safety and security at all times.

Avoid demonstrations and crowds, specifically in Central Papua and Highland Papua.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Katherine Rodriguez can be reached at krodriguez@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips.
A tornado strikes the Bangor area of northern Northampton County the afternoon of Tuesday, May 6, 2025, as seen in this screenshot of video taken by Kevin Bradham in the area of Stiles Road and Washington Boulevard near the borough's southern border. Courtesy Kevin Bradham

UPDATE: Bangor tornado struck with 80-90 mph winds, damaging property and trees: NWS (PHOTOS)

The National Weather Service says a preliminary storm survey would be conducted Wednesday after a tornado was confirmed Tuesday in northern Northampton County.

An assessment team was on its way Wednesday morning to the Bangor area to inspect the damage and talk to local officials, according to the weather services regional forecast office in Mount Holly, New Jersey.

No injuries were immediately reported.

The assessment aims to determine the extent of damage from the storm, the rating of the tornado on the Enhanced Fujita Scale used to classify tornado strength, wind speeds and the path of the storm.

The survey is in relation to the severe thunderstorms that moved through the area Tuesday, the weather service said in a public information statement Wednesday morning. An earlier statement issued Tuesday evening confirmed a tornado occurred near Route 191 south of Bangor on Tuesday afternoon, based on several videos received via social media.

Kevin Bradham took one such video in the area of Stiles Road and Washington Boulevard along Bangors southern border. He was with his son, Jaxson Bradham, when the tornado hit, sending a chair into the grill of their Dodge Ram pickup truck.

A screenshot from social media video shot by Joseph Martucci and posted to X, formerly Twitter, shows a funnel cloud the afternoon of Tuesday, May 6, 2025, over northern Northampton County. Courtesy Joseph Martucci

Joseph Martucci published another video to social media, showing the funnel cloud as observed from Bushkill Township, appearing to be moving toward Bangor.

A final assessment including results of the survey are expected to be completed and transmitted via a Public Information Statement by late this afternoon, the National Weather Service said, noting the storm survey information would be posted to the regional forecast offices website at weather.gov/phi.

Justin Knitter lives at New and Northampton streets in Bangor. He just bought the house last year with his fiancee, Emily Hale. The couple plan to get married in June. With money so tight with the wedding planning, he was fortunate to have minimal damage, he said.

Knitter wasnt home when the storm began but came home Tuesday evening to a large tree branch narrowly missing his house when it was torn off.

My neighbors were telling me all they heard was a loud snap, Knitter told lehighvalleylive.com Wednesday morning. I walked back to see the branch down and was in shock. It could have fell right through the upstairs of our house, but by some way, it blew enough to miss the house.

Knitter has since launched an online fundraiser to help offset the cost of the tree removal. The GoFundMe has a goal to raise $5,000.

We are asking for any assistance to help us towards getting this tree removed from our property as it certainly poses risks going forward to branches falling atop our house, the posting states.

William and Robin Rogers live off of Washington Boulevard near the Washington Township-Bangor border. The couples son, Will Rogers, said the twister just before 4 p.m. Tuesday tore through their backyard, taking down nearly 75 trees.

It all happened within minutes, Will Rogers said.

They heard what sounded like a freight train coming and quickly proceeded to the basement to take shelter, he said. Everything was gone, snapped and uprooted on their property. 

The couples house was miraculously spared by less than 30 yards in the distance, Will Rogers said.

Kyle Felker, who lives on South Main Street in Bangor, captured this image of a tornado in a video as it struck the afternoon of Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Courtesy Kyle Felker

Kyle Felker, who lives on South Main Street in Bangor, captured the tornado in one of the dozens of videos shared across social media platforms. He spotted it from the distance as he ran outside early Tuesday evening and down the street.

Felker watched as the twister then slowly disappeared back into the sky, followed by wind gusts, rain and pea-sized hail. He also captured photos of the hail that coated streets and pathways in the storms aftermath.

It was the second time hes experienced a possible tornado. Felker was a child when he traveled south, near Mississippi, with his father and they spotted what appeared to be a tornado in a cloud that never formed. Heavy wind gusts then traveled over the car as they drove through the storm, he said.

The scene Tuesday evening brought back a mix of nostalgia and pure adrenaline, Felker said.

I thought we were safe, but then I saw it coming closer, Felker told lehighvalleylive.com.

Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust.

Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com.

Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com.
A screenshot from social media video shot by Joseph Martucci and posted to X, formerly Twitter, shows a funnel cloud the afternoon of Tuesday, May 6, 2025, over northern Northampton County. Courtesy Joseph Martucci

UPDATE 2: Bangor tornado: Weather service conducting damage survey Wednesday

UPDATE 1: The National Weather Service confirmed a tornado touched down Tuesday afternoon in Northampton County.

In an evening statement, NWS meteorologists wrote: Several videos received via social media confirm a tornado occurred near Route 191 south of Bangor earlier this afternoon. A storm damage assessment will be needed and the results of this assessment will be provided later this week.

ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Social media video Tuesday afternoon showed a funnel-shaped cloud over Northampton County, according to the person who took the video.

Joseph Martucci at 3:53 p.m. published to X, formerly Twitter, the video showing the funnel cloud, saying it was taken from Bushkill Township. The cloud appeared to be moving toward Bangor, he said.

LIKELY TORNADO ON THE GROUND



Moving towards Bangor, PA. Shot from Bushkill Township, PA. #PAwx @NWS_MountHolly pic.twitter.com/mr1MVtBYAA  joseph martucci (@jtooch07) May 6, 2025

The National Weather Service at 3:58 p.m. posted to X that a tornado warning was in place until 4:30 p.m. for an area including Bangor, plus East Stroudsburg and Stroudsburg in Monroe County.

Tornado Warning including East Stroudsburg PA, Stroudsburg PA and Bangor PA until 4:30 PM EDT pic.twitter.com/ok4Av3jDwb  NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) May 6, 2025

A tornado warning also was issued by the weather service until 5:15 p.m. for east-central Monroe County plus New Jerseys north-central Warren and west-central Sussex counties.

At 440 PM EDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located over Blairstown, or 12 miles southwest of Newton, moving north at 30 mph, the second warning read, indicating radar was showing rotation. Quarter-size hail also was possible from the storm.

Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter, the warning continued. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely.

A meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, New Jersey, told lehighvalleylive.com that staff there are aware of social media video showing the funnel-shaped cloud over Northampton County. However, they had not received any reports of damage and said it was too early to confirm a tornado had occurred.

A Northampton County 911 emergency dispatch supervisor said at 4:35 p.m. no immediate reports of any damage had come in to the center.

In a preliminary storm report, the weather services regional forecast office in Mount Holly said several videos received via social media confirm a tornado occurred near Route 191 south of Bangor at about 3:50 p.m.

The weather service usually sends a team of meteorologists to locations of suspected tornadoes to inspect damage and make an official determination on whether a twister touched down. They also assess the estimated strength of the tornado and how long it remained on the ground.

The weather service on Monday confirmed two landspout tornadoes had struck Sunday in Berks County.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com.

NJ.com reporter Len Melisurgo contributed to this report.

Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com.
Laois residents around Portarlington and Killenard are set to be consulted on plans for a major renewable energy solar farm on which will straddle Laois and Kildare.

Irish-owned BNRG has announced that it intends to seek planning permission for a 32 megawatt generating solar farm near for its so-called BNRG Bracklone project. The business claims in a statement issued to the Leinster Express / Laois Live that the project would generate enough electricity to power about 6,000 homes.

It says it will be located in a rural area between Portarlington and Monasterevin on 52 hectares. Killenard is the largest residential area near the Laois part of the farm which will cover 17 hectares of farmland in Kilmullen. The Laois site is located off the R420 and with the inter-city rail line to its rear. It will cover 35 hectares across two neighbouring farms in Coolnafearagh, Co Kildare.

The company says the locations would be connected using underground cables along L7176, R424 and R420 roads. it will be connected to the Bracklone 110kV substation, Portarlington via underground cable.

Describing it as a 'small scale' solar farm, BNRG explain that two 'discreet' mini-substations will be built in an 'agricultural-style' building. Details of the mini-substations and an associated battery storage units will be included in the applications to be submitted to the Councils.

BNRG Bracklone announced on May 7 the commencement of what it said is a "public consultation and information" programme over the coming months. The company says the objective is to inform the local community about the project and to obtain feedback to ensure what it termed a "best-in-class" project.

The company says proximity to the national grid and the new EirGrid Bracklone 110kV substation were important considerations in selecting the sites. It adds that the local topography, combined with planned hedgerows, buffer zones, solar panel setbacks from public roads, and new planting and fencing, will help screen the low-lying solar array panels.

BNRG outlined the green credentials. It claims that up to 9,000 tonnes of carbon emissions would be displaced annually by the development, relative to electricity generated from fossil fuels. BNRG also say "significant focus" is being placed on environmental matters to promote biodiversity.

It also claims that on completion, the solar farm will remain suitable for ongoing agricultural use, primarily as grazing land for sheep.

Subject to planning and participation in a Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) auction, BNRG indicates that it would expect to establish a Community Benefit Fund in which local people would be invited to participate and to have their say in how the estimated 800,000 community fund would be invested over time.

BNRG say that following a "comprehensive public consultation and information programme" and completion of a wide range of independent environmental and engineering assessments and reports, BNRG would expect to apply to Laois and Kildare County Councils for planning permission during the summer of 2025. Subject to planning, it estimates that construction would take up to 12 months to complete, with local suppliers encouraged to tender.

The company estimates that construction would take place from 2027 with the farm producing power in 2028.

READ ALSO: Laois/Kildare rugby club secure Leinster League and Cup double

At the end of the lifecycle of BNRG Bracklone solar panels and their supports will be dismantled and recycled.

A public information and consultation clinic will take place in Portarlington Community Centre on Wednesday, May 21, from 3.30 pm  6.30 pm. The company says this will provide an opportunity to meet experts from BNRG and specialist engineering and environmental consultants TOBIN Consulting Engineers. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Location of solar farm.

BNRG adds that a website with project information is also available at www.bnrgbracklone.com alongside contact details for the projects dedicated Community Liaison Officer.

Headquartered in Dublin with operations in Ireland, the US, the United Kingdom and Australia, BNRG describes itself as a 'pioneering' developer and operator of solar projects. Since 2007, it has worked with development, technology and investment partners to finance, build, manage and own solar farms that today produce more than 150,000 MWh of electricity, with more than 5.5 GW of active projects in the development pipeline.

"Its approach is built on developing lasting and trusted relationships and partnerships so it can deliver on its promises, including minimal disruption for communities," it claims.

The company adds that news updates will be shared with stakeholders via our project website www.bnrgbracklone.com
A former Sinn Fein TD for Laois has been appointed to the National Security and Defence Committee.

Independent Republican TD Brian Stanley welcomed this appointment, calling for military neutrality and the strengthening of Ireland's military.

I Welcome the opportunity to be part of this important committee, this comes at a crucial time for both our Foreign policy and our Defence as a State," the Portlaoise based TD said.

Pictured: Independent Republican TD Brian Stanley

"The ongoing attempts by the Taoiseach Michael Martin to abolish the Triple Lock and draw us into a military alliance must be countered.

"Our military neutrality has served us well and has allowed us to be a credible voice at the UN and on the world stage for countries like Palestine, that are being occupied and whose population are facing genocide," he said.

Deputy Stanley argued that Ireland's defence as a State must be improved, meaning 'the bringing up of our army to full strength' and having a 'functioning and fully equipped' Navy and Air Force.

"It's essential that our undersea telecommunications and electricity infrastructure are protected," the Deputy argued.

Pictured: Deputy Stanley during last November's General Election count in Laois

"The risk of cyber-attacks by hostile States and International criminals was brought home to all of us when we had the large-scale cyber-attack on our HSE computer systems in May 2021.

"Our country must have the capacity to counter such attacks, which can have catastrophic consequences for Public Services and State Security," he said.

The Deputy concluded by saying this new Committee will have to ensure that all these matters 'and much more' are dealt with fully.

In Dail Eireann, the three TDs representing Laois are all on various Oireachtas Committees.

Fine Gael TD Willie Aird is to sit on the Oireachtas Committee on Agriculture and Food and the Oireachtas Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Affairs.
Heartfelt tributes have been paid to Fred Gibbons, Maynooth, Co Kildare (formerly Kilcock, Co Kildare), who passed on May 5 2025.

Fred, who was from Laragh Demesne, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, passed peacefully at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown.

Beloved husband of the late Maura and father of the late Freddie and father-in-law of the recently deceased Catherine.

Deeply regretted by his loving sons Brendan, Declan and Damien, daughters Karen, Sinead and Sharon, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Rest In Peace.

Tributes paid to Fred on RIP.ie this week included the following: To the Gibbons Family, we are saddened to hear of the passing of Fred. Please accept our heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

And: Our deepest condolences to all of Fred's family..our thoughts and prayers are with you all..may his gentle soul rest in peace.

While another mourner wrote: My genuine condolences to Brendan, Declan and all the Gibbons family on the passing of Fred. A true Gaeil and a gentle giant.

May his kind and gentle soul rest in peace.

And another added: To all the Gibbons family so very sorry for your loss, Fred was one of lifes true gentleman.

Reposing at William Ryan & Sons Funeral Home, Church St., Kilcock, (W23XC90) today (Wednesday) from 4pm, with concluding prayers at 7pm.

Removal from his residence on Thursday at approx. 11:30am to arrive at St. Cocas Church, Kilcock for 12pm Funeral Mass, followed by burial in St. Joseph's Cemetery, Kilcock.

The Funeral Mass can be viewed live in the "webstream" section below.

Oliver Reilly Funeral Directors accept no responsibility for any live webcam interruptions or issues.

Family flowers only, please. Donations if desired to the Alzheimer Society of Ireland which can be made in the "donation" section below.

For all enquiries, please contact Oliver Reilly Funeral Directors on (045) 868230.

Webstream: https://www.kilcockandnewtownparish.ie/webcam/

Donations to the Alzheimer Society of Ireland: https://eventmaster.ie/fundraising/pages/FG90012596/donate.html

READ NEXT: Barnados encourages Kildare children to take part in the 22nd annual Big Toddle
Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content.

Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist.

If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter .

Support our mission and join our community now.
A number of vapes were stolen by two males who broke into a County Kildare service station, a member of An Garda Siochana (AGS) has said.

Garda Christopher Fallon of Leixlip Garda Station discussed the incident with KFM when he appeared on one of its radio programmes earlier this morning (May 7).

He explained that the crime took incident took place in the early hours of Wednesday, April 30 last at the Texaco outlet located on the Clane Road in Celbridge.

According to Gda Fallon, two males broke a window on the premises and proceeded to steal vapes. They later fled in a silver Mitsubishi Colt vehicle.

He concluded by urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to contact Leixlip Garda Station on 01 666 7800.

When asked by the Leinster Leader for comment about this crime, a spokesperson for AGS replied: "Gardai received a report of an incident of burglary that occurred at approximately 4am on April 30, 2025 on the Clane Road in Celbridge, County Kildare.

"A number of goods were taken from the premises during this incident."

The spokesperson added that i nvestigations are ongoing at present.

READ NEXT: Blood donation clinics taking place in these Kildare regions this month
Irish owned BNRG, a pioneer in clean renewable energy, today announces its intention to seek planning permission for a 32MW solar farm near the Kildare-Laois border for its BNRG Bracklone PV [BNRG Bracklone] project.

The project would generate sufficient clean, green energy to power over 6,000 homes, contributing positively to Irelands green energy transition.

Located in a rural location between Portarlington in Co. Laois and Monasterevin in Co. Kildare, the proposed 52 hectares solar farm will straddle parts of three separate landholdings; one in Kilmullen, Co. Laois (17 hectares) and two neighbouring farms located to its east in Coolnafearagh, Co. Kildare (35 hectares total).

BNRG Bracklone is today (May 7) announcing the commencement of a public consultation and information programme that will take place over the coming months. Its objective is to inform the local community about the project and to obtain feedback to ensure a best-in-class project.

Public information and consultation clinic

A public information and consultation clinic will take place in Portarlington Community Centre on Wednesday, 21 May 2025, from 3.30 pm  6.30 pm. This clinic will provide an opportunity to meet experts from BNRG and specialist engineering and environmental consultants TOBIN Consulting Engineers.

A website with project information is also available at www.bnrgbracklone.com alongside contact details for the projects dedicated Community Liaison Officer.

Proximity to the national grid and the new EirGrid Bracklone 110kV substation were important considerations in selecting the sites. The local topography, combined with planned hedgerows, buffer zones, solar panel setbacks from public roads, and new planting and fencing, will help screen the low-lying solar array panels.

The solar farm is expected to displace up to 9,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually, relative to electricity generated from fossil fuels. The project promoters are placing significant focus on environmental matters to promote biodiversity, enhance hedgerows for screening and to protect and enhance watercourses, soils and geology.

On completion, the solar farm will remain suitable for ongoing agricultural use, primarily as grazing land for sheep.

Community Benefit Fund

Subject to planning and participation in a Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) auction, BNRG would expect to establish a Community Benefit Fund in which locals would be invited to participate and to have their say in how the estimated 800,000 community fund would be invested over time.

Following a comprehensive public consultation and information programme and completion of a wide range of independent environmental and engineering assessments and reports, BNRG would expect to apply to Laois and Kildare County Councils for planning permission for BNRG Bracklone during the summer of 2025.

Subject to planning, the construction phase would take up to 12 months to complete, with local suppliers encouraged to tender.

READ NEXT: Intel, Kildare CEO approved for 42m stock plan
A woman has been instructed to stay away from the Kildare Village designer retail outlet, near Kildare Town.

Mary McDonagh, 50, whose address was given as 69 New Cabra Road, Phibsborough, Dublin, is being prosecuted in relation to the theft of items from five stores - Polo Ralph Lauren, Columbia, Clarks, North Face and New Balance - on May 5.

READ NEXT Gerry Adams tells libel case IRA membership was not a path I took

Its being alleged that items worth a cumulative 800 were taken including items valued at 254 and 250 respectively at Polo Ralph Lauren and Columbia.

Garda Conor McKeown told Naas District Court that when charged the defendant replied: Im sorry I did it; I dont remember doing it.

Gda McKeown also told the court he feared the defendant is a flight risk.

The court heard that the defendant has a number of health issues and had to be brought to hospital while in custody after she had taken a number of tablets for back pain.

It was stated on the womans behalf that if she is placed in custody it is likely she will have to return to hospital.

The defendant gave undertakings to stay out of Kildare Village, sign on twice a week at a Dublin garda station and reside at her address. She must also notify the gardai of any change of address and be available to take phone calls at short notice.

The matter was adjourned to October 7.
Barnardos childrens charity has officially launched the 22nd annual Big Toddle, a half-mile sponsored walk for Irelands littlest fundraisers  toddlers!

The campaigns theme, Big Toddle Little Heroes, celebrates the huge impact made by some of the smallest feet in the country, and this year is seeking Kildare toddlers' assistance in the event.

Returning as this years campaign ambassador, Louise Duffy is proud to support the Big Toddle once again.

Since its beginning, the Big Toddle has raised an incredible 4.84 million for Barnardos Early Years services, supporting the most vulnerable children across Ireland.

Barnardos Big Toddle Ambassador Louise Duffy said: I'm delighted to team up with Barnardos again this year to support the Big Toddle. We've moved from toddling to sprinting in our house in the last year, but this amazing campaign encourages pre-school aged children to get on board for a half mile walk, and most importantly to begin helping others.

I'm in awe of the work Barnardos does, changing childhoods and changing lives.

Barnardos Director of Fundraising, Mary Gamble said:  Were incredibly proud of all the toddlers who participate in our Big Toddle, these amazing young children are helping ensure that some of the youngest and most vulnerable children in Ireland receive the best possible start in life  its children helping children and thats very special.

We are thrilled to kick off this year's Big Toddle and celebrate our littlest fundraisers who support our cause. Whether you're a creche, a parent, or a childminder, you can organise your own Big Toddle anytime in May or June. Your support makes a difference in the lives of vulnerable children across Ireland. Because childhood lasts a lifetime.

How to Get Involved: Creches, families, parents, and childminders can register now to host their own Big Toddle this May or June by visiting www.barnados.ie/bigtoddle

READ NEXT: Calls for urgent Government review as Kildare families face renewed risk of homelessness
Gardai are investigating the death of a man in his eighties who drowned tragically off Clare Island recently, Mayo Live reports.

The tragedy occurred on Tuesday last at around 1pm when a vehicle entered the water at Glen on Clare Island.

Locals raised the alarm and made valiant efforts to save the man who is understood be a local man aged in his eighties.

Locals managed to take the man from the vehicle but despite efforts to resuscitate him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

A number of emergency services including members of An Garda Siochana, Achill Lifeboat and the Coast Guard emergency helicopter attended the scene.

READ NEXT: 'I could lie and tell you a shark got me'- Ex-army Irish man on life after losing a leg

The body of the deceased man was brought to Mayo University Hospital where a post mortem is due to take place.

A Forensic Collision Investigator carried out an examination of the scene.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Westport Garda Station on 098 50230, the Garda Confidential line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.
A superintendent has said she formed the view that Richard Satchwell was a suspect in his wifes disappearance in August 2022, a court heard.

Superintendent Ann Marie Twomey also said that she could not comment on why a previous investigative team did not carry out an intrusive search of the couples Cork home in 2017.

Satchwell is accused of murdering his wife Tina at their home in Youghal between March 19 and 20 2017.

The 58-year-old, from Grattan Street in Youghal, denies murder.

Satchwell, who is originally from Leicester in England, formally reported his wife missing on May 11 2017, weeks after the date he told police she had left their home.

Mrs Satchwells remains were found in a shallow grave beneath a concrete floor under a set of stairs in their home in October 2023.

On Wednesday, Ms Twomey said she could not comment on the thoughts and beliefs of the investigating team that searched the Satchwell home in 2017.

Ms Twomey, who was appointed senior investigating officer to the case in August 2021, said she was not involved in the case before then.

Asked by defence barrister Brendan Grehan SC if she had thought the previous search of Grattan Street was a thorough one, Ms Twomey said: It was not an intrusive search or an invasive search.

She said she had no involvement with the investigation at that stage.

Asked if she expected that the 2017 search would have sought to unearth the remains of Tina Satchwell, Ms Twomey said that the warrant said the search related to assault causing harm.

Mr Grehan suggested there was nothing to prevent gardai from conducting invasive search in June 2017.

I cannot answer the question, Ms Twomey said, because she could not represent the beliefs or thoughts of the previous investigation team.

The team in 2017 had lawful authority to be in the house, but in relation to what they did and didnt do, I cant answer that because I dont know their thought process or belief at that time.

Ms Twomey told the court she was appointed as the senior investigating officer four years after Mrs Satchwell went missing.

She said at the time she was a detective inspector attached to the Cork North Garda division and had no previous involvement in Mrs Satchwells case.

She said that it took months for her and Detective Garda David Kelleher to review the material in the incident room, which included witness statements, CCTV, details of the search of Tinas home in 2017, inquiries at ports and airports, inquiries with social welfare and the passport office, media appeals by Gardai and Richard Satchwell, and inquiries into reported sightings.

After they had familiarised themselves with the material, they carried out further inquiries and additional lines of investigation, including engaging with a forensic accountant, a forensic archaeologist and with the PSNI.

She said that by the end of January and the beginning of February 2022, she had reasonable grounds to believe that Mrs Satchwell was not a missing person and had been unlawfully killed.

She said she came to this conclusion because despite extensive inquiries carried out, there was no suggestion that Tina was a living person.

She said by the end of August 2022, she had formed the view that Satchwell was a suspect in wifes disappearance and death.

When asked why Gardai did not act on that information, Ms Twomey said the investigation was very much alive and active and there were other lines of inquiry that needed to be pursued.

She said among the lines of inquiry pursued, was engaging with forensic archaeologist Dr Niamh McCullagh.

I was looking for Tina Satchwell, she told the court.

She said that between September 2022 and September 2023, she formed reasonable grounds that a search of the Youghal home was necessary.

She went to the District Court in early October and detailed going to the house on October 10 2023 and informing Richard Satchwell of who she was and the warrant she was executing for an intrusive search.

She said that he replied that he understood the situation.

Detective Garda David Kelleher said he became involved in the Tina Satchwell case in 2020, and among his tasks was a review of material retrieved from digital devices seized from the Satchwell home.

He told the court that a Google search for quicklime was made on Friday March 24 2017 at 9.08pm, and seconds later a video was clicked on that showed quicklime and water reacting.

Mr Kelleher also went through a number of emails sent from a RickieSat account and an International Monkey Rescue account.

He told the court Richard Satchwell was attempting to purchase two marmoset monkeys, called Terry and Thelma, over a period two years, from 2015 to March 2017.

On February 23 2017, at 6.05pm, the court heard an email from International Monkey Rescue was sent to RickieSat, and suggested they could figure out the payment.

A response from RickieSat, signed off as Richard, on the same date, said that he had lost his job over going all over Ireland to send you money.

In a later response, the monkey organisation said we will figure the money issue and let you know and the RickieSat account responded Ok Many thanks.

On March 9 2017, the international monkey sanctuary address said, you never took our last message seriously, and on March 27 2017, the RickieSat account said, what do you mean by this and said, my wife is saying she is going to leave me over this.

Earlier on Wednesday, Detective Sergeant David Noonan told the court that Satchwell was very co-operative with the Gardai.

He said the cognitive interview technique he conducted with Satchwell on June 20 2021, which was held for up to four hours, can only be done with a co-operative witness.

He said Satchwell was not considered a suspect in his wifes disappearance at the time of the interview, but was considered a significant witness.
The first ever Highwaymen Truck Gathering took place at Drumcoura City on May 3rd and 4th, bringing together over 80 show trucks and trucking enthusiasts from across Ireland for a weekend of music, food, and motors.

I am delighted to see the event came off without a hitchexcuse the pun, said organiser Simon Power. I would like to express a sincere thank you to the Highwaymen group and Cowboy Paul (Duffy) for bringing this event to Drumcoura City.

The truckers are from the Highwaymen group, but theyre coming from all over Ireland, Power added. We could not have had a nicer group of people coming together to celebrate their shared love of trucking.

The setting at Drumcourawith its Western-style saloon and wide-open groundsproved the perfect backdrop for a weekend of country-inspired festivities.

A standout feature was the launch of Drumcouras new Texas barbecue menu. Attendees lined up at the 20-foot smoker for brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, all cooked low and slow. The rich aroma of smoked meat filled the air and quickly became part of the events signature appeal.

The music line-up included Nigel Livingstone, Joe Campbell, and Ollie Galligan, whose performances added to the laid-back, free-spirited trucker vibe that defined the weekend.

As the event wrapped up, organisers noted the strong turnout and community support. Power had predicted it would be a busy weekendand with plans already being discussed for 2026, the Highwaymen may soon become a fixture in Drumcouras calendar.

READ MORE Emmy-winning show featuring Leitrim airs stateside
Land in Leitrim is the cheapest in the country according to The Annual SCSI/Teagasc Agricultural Land Review and Outlook 2025 report.

The report, which provides a county-by-county breakdown of the prices of good and poor-quality land across the country, found that an acre of good non-residential land in Leitrim cost 7,625/ac, while poor-land in the county was 3,792/ac.

Leinster farmland values were among the highest in Ireland, on average, at 11,809 per acre while Munsters average values were second highest at 11,120 on average, and Connacht/Ulster followed that at 6,792 per acre.

Waterford came out on top of the list with the price of good quality land in the county going for 23,000/ac.

The average value of non-residential farmland in 2024 was 9,907/ac, which is an increase of 7% from 9,297 in 2023.

The national average for good quality land was 13,178/ac while the national average for poor quality land was 6,636/ac. Leitrim feel below the average in both categories.

Additionally, the report forecasts that farmland values will rise by 6% on average this year.

READ MORE: The Leitrim Gathering is coming, here's what's on?
Mary Flood, a retired English teacher originally from Roscommon, has published her debut novel, To Love and Servea story shaped by her experiences, reflections during lockdown, and the cultural shifts shes witnessed over decades.

Im a retired English teacher and examiner, now finding time to edit and finish all three novels, Flood says. To Love and Serve, just published, emanated from the COVID period when there was time to reflect and read.

Set in the 1960s, the novel follows four Irish womenOlive, Della, Laura, and Margieliving under a system that placed heavy emphasis on duty, faith, and family. It draws on locations including Carrick-on-Shannon, Boyle, Sligo and Galway, but the central themes are national: young marriage, moral expectations, and the quiet resignation expected of women.

Flood doesnt romanticise the past, but she questions whats been gained and lost. My novel shows how different times were, she says. I hope readers will judge whether they were better and more grounded in morals and beliefsor the opposite.

The novel was partly sparked by reading modern Irish authors like Sally Rooney and Marian Keyes during lockdown. The modern liberated Irish woman reflects different, freer attitudes and customs than that of the 60s and 70s, Flood says. On the one hand, it has been culturally enriching, giving women independence and choices. On the other hand, I think some of the richness has been lostwith slack views on marriage and relationships, a hunger for wealth generated from EEC membership, and more.

Before her marriage to JJ Flood of Strokestown, she worked in the Labour Exchange in Carrick-on-Shannonan experience that informed several characters and scenes in the novel. The couple left Strokestown for Cheltenham in 1987, where she continued teaching until retirement.

Now living in the UK, Flood is focused on completing her remaining two novels. Her debut is less about nostalgia than it is about contextoffering a close look at the rules and roles that shaped womens lives in mid-century Ireland, and the ongoing conversation about freedom, values, and identity.

READ MORE Emmy-winning show featuring Leitrim airs stateside
Pacific Prime Thailand Wins AXA Thailand's Top International Broker Award 2025





In a strong display of commitment to its global insurer partners, Pacific Prime Thailand, a leading international health insurance broker, was awarded the Top International Broker Award from AXA Thailand on April 28th, 2025. The award was presented to Mr. Ricky Batten, General Manager of Pacific Prime Thailand, and Mr. Pierre Morin, Global Head of Sales.

The ceremony took place at the ?Dare to Dream' AXA Awards 2025 held by AXA Thailand on April 28th, 2025, at the Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel, with Mr. Guillaume Mirabaud, CEO of AXA Thailand, attending and presenting the awards.

Mr. Ricky Batten, General Manager of Pacific Prime Thailand, expressed his gratitude:

"On behalf of Pacific Prime Thailand, I would like to express my sincerest thanks to AXA Thailand for this prestigious award. It is a testament to the value that Pacific Prime can deliver to our partners, like AXA Thailand, as well as our global clients. It shows what our team's dedication could bring in assisting our clients to navigate the insurance landscape. Thank you, AXA Thailand, for this recognition and the long-standing trust you have for us. We hope this award is only a milestone in an even longer and more fruitful journey to come."

Mr. Batten also extended special thanks to the leadership of AXA Thailand, including Mr. Guillaume Mirabaud, CEO of AXA Thailand; Ms. Sally O'Hara, CEO of Southeast Asia & Korea; Mr. Jarut Sukkhawadee, Chief Distribution Officer; Mr. Antoine Brune, Chief Health Officer; and Ms. Hatainan (Pam) Kiatfuengfoo, Chief Distribution Officer.

About AXA Thailand:

AXA is a global insurance and financial services company operating in over 60 countries. With a focus on innovation and customer-centricity, AXA offers a comprehensive range of insurance, investment, and asset management solutions to individual and business clients. With a strong commitment to sustainability and responsible investment practices, AXA serves millions of customers worldwide, providing them with personalized advice and support through its extensive network of professionals, agents, and partners.

For more information, visit https://www.axa.co.th

About Pacific Prime

Established in 2000, Pacific Prime is an award-winning global insurance brokerage and employee benefits specialist that offers individual and corporate insurance solutions. With a USD $ 750 million premium under management, Pacific Prime is now the third largest employee benefits broker in the Asia Pacific. The brokerage has over 1,000 employees and 15 offices worldwide, including Hong Kong, Singapore, China, Thailand, Malaysia, the UAE, Indonesia, the UK, the US, Mexico, the Philippines, and Australia.

To learn more about Pacific Prime, please visit: https://www.pacificprime.com/

6 may 2025 at 23:05

News published onand distributed by:
Featured

"The President insisted that no user can be an operator." -- Executive Mansion Source from yesterdays IMCC meeting.
You have permission to edit this article.

Edit Close
Minister of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism, Jerolinmek M. Piah speaking at the Monrovia City Hall during World Press Freedom Day Celebration.
TUIs new service from Shannon Airport to Majorca has taken flight which provides an additional 6,800 seats from the airport across the summer season.

The new weekly service to Palma Airport, Majorca commenced yesterday and will operate every Tuesday from Shannon through the peak summer season, until September 16. This is the first time TUI has operated this service from Shannon since 2019, with this latest addition adding to its existing services to Lanzarote and Costa Dorada.

Majorca has long been a summer holiday favourite, as a renowned destination for sunshine, culture, food and music, while it also offers a wide range of family-friendly resorts, picturesque beaches and a vibrant social scene, for people of all ages to enjoy.

Welcoming the decision, Niall Kearns, Airport Director at The Shannon Airport Group said:

READ MORE: Passenger numbers at Shannon Airport reach 15-year high as targets are exceeded

TUIs decision to resume its Majorca service is really welcome news for Shannon Airport and indeed for this region as it will offer even more sunshine destination options for our passengers. We are delighted to be increasing our range of TUI options from Shannon to three weekly departures to Lanzarote, Majorca and Costa Dorada as well as TUI city breaks to both Paris and New York."

To view Shannon Airports full range of destinations, visit www.shannonairport.ie.
THE FORMER Mayor of Limerick Kathleen Leddin, who died on Tuesday night, will be laid to rest this weekend.

Tributes to the long-serving councillor have continued this Wednesday, with the current first citizen John Moran describing his predecessor as a "trailblazer".

"Weve lost a super person in Limerick today, who has done so much for the city and the wider region. She always had a great wit and a great sense of humour, which was always guided by compassion for others around her, both in the political sphere and outside of it," he said.

Ms Leddin, who lived at North Circular Road in the city, was a councillor between 1999 and 2014 when she retired aged 74.

READ MORE: Limerick sun-seekers rejoice as TUI launches weekly flights from Shannon to Majorca

The year before this, she achieved her dream of becoming mayor, and following in her late husband, Tim's footsteps.

In doing so, she became the last Mayor of Limerick City before the two councils merged.

She passed away peacefully at Milford Care Centre, surrounded by her loving family.

This Friday, she will repose at her home in Eden Terrace between 5pm and 8pm.

Her funeral will arrive at Our Lady of the Rosary church at Ennis Road the following day, with requiem Mass at 10.30am.

The service will be available to watch online at: https://www.ourladyoftherosaryparishlimerick.ie/our-parish/web-cam/

The former mayor will be laid to rest at Mount St Oliver Cemetery thereafter.

Family flowers only, donations if desired to Milford Hospice.

The beloved wife of the late Tim, another former Mayor, Kathleen is the dearly loved mother of Timothy, Morgan, Brian, the former Green Party TD, and Gregory. She is stepmother to Deirdre, Anthony, Desmond and Joan. She is also sadly missed by her daughters-in-law Edel, Karine, Helen, Celeste and Liz, sons-in-law Peter and John, her cherished 18 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, extended family and many friends.

The Leddin family have taken time out to pay a special thanks to those who helped her in her latter years particularly her great friend Olive and her carer Jackie and all her neighbours and friends.

May she rest in peace.
A WELL-RESPECTED and long-serving councillor, who has gone to her God this Tuesday evening, has been remembered as "an incredible lady".

Kathleen Leddin, who lived on the North Circular Road, and was elected the 817th Mayor of Limerick, sadly died in Milford Hospice, surrounded by her family.

Mother of former Green Party TD Brian Leddin and wife of the former Fine Gael councillor, the late Tim Leddin, Kathleen served on the old City Council between 1999 and 2014 when she retired from politics aged 74.

She was only the sixth female Mayor of Limerick and to this day, is the last woman to have served in that role.

In a heartfelt message posted to social media, Brian Leddin wrote: "We will miss her incredibly. Mum was an inspiration to me and countless others. She was a brilliant story teller with a long memory of Limerick City, Donoughmore and Murroe and so many other places that were dear to her. Mum was resilient, smart, adventurous and, above all, one of the kindest and funniest people you could meet. She brought joy to us all and gave us immense love. Rest in peace, Mum."

An Independent councillor, Kathleen was the final first citizen of Limerick City Council before the authority merged with Limerick County Council.

READ MORE: Time is precious  Former RTE star reveals cancer diagnosis just days after retirement

Kathleen was a huge supporter of her husband Tim, and in effect won his seat on the eve of the new millennium.

Following his retirement, she had been overlooked for a Fine Gael nomination - so ran as an Independent instead, winning in the old ward one, where she was re-elected in 2004 and 2009.

The highlight of her political career came in 2013 when she was elected first citizen.

During her final term from 2009 to 2014, when Fine Gael ruled the roost at City Hall, she was put forward on a number of occasions by the opposition groupings.

But she continually missed out, leaving her to lament: "Always the bridesmaid, never the bride".

However, at the last ever annual general meeting of Limerick City Council, she finally secured the chain of office after Fine Gael lost its majority and was unable to secure support for their own candidate, the late Denis McCarthy.

It was another councillor now sadly deceased, Pat Kennedy of Fine Gael who crossed the floor and backed Cllr Leddin as a protest at not receiving his party's nomination for the office.

Following her retirement, she was filled with joy at seeing her son Brian make history twice for the Green Party.

He followed in her footsteps in being elected as a councillor in 2019.

Then, eight months later, he became Limerick's first Dail TD for the Green Party.

"An incredible lady, absolutely remarkable," is how her nephew, serving Labour councillor Joe Leddin remembered her this Tuesday.

He believes Kathleen was before her time in being a strong envirommentalist, something particularly shown with her love for the Westfields Wetlands on her doorstep, and her efforts to ensure it remained a Special Area of Conservation.

Local businessman Randel Hodkinson, a former president of the Thomond Archaeological and Historical Society, which Kathleen was a lifelong member of, described her as: "An amazing lady, a great servant of this city and a passionate supporter of Limerick's heritage."

May she rest in peace.
A woman is due in court this morning charged with arson in connection with the riots in Dublin city centre in November 2023.

She is facing charges related to criminal damage to a Dublin Bus on OConnell Street Lower during the riots on November 23, 2023.

Her appearance comes as gardai confirmed that nine individuals were arrested over the weekend and into this week as part of the ongoing investigation.

The arrests made between Sunday, May 4 and Tuesday, May 6, include three adult women, four adult men, and two male juveniles.

Two of the women have been charged and released on station bail pending court appearances at a later date. The two juveniles were released with files to be submitted to the Director of the Youth Diversion Programme.

The remaining three individuals were released without charge, with files to be sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

To date, 85 people have been arrested or interviewed in relation to the disorder, with 66 charged with offences.

Gardai say that 24 of the arrests so far have come directly as a result of a media appeal issued in November 2024.

Investigations are ongoing, and Gardai continue to appeal to anyone with information to contact Store Street Garda Station on 01 666 8000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

READ MORE | Midweek sunshine sticks around Ireland as Met Eireann pinpoints when showers may return
Support for Irelands membership of the European Union has dropped to its lowest level since 2013, a new opinion poll has suggested.

However, the annual European Movement Ireland poll still found strong backing for Irelands membership of the EU at 82%.

The research also suggested that 43% across Ireland do not believe their views are represented at EU level.

The all-island poll conducted into European affairs by Amarach Research is now in its 12th year.

The survey found that 34% respondents feel the EU is not upholding its core values and 26% are dissatisfied with its direction.

The research also found that 36% of respondents are dissatisfied with Irelands role and influence in Brussels.

Noelle O Connell, chief executive of European Movement Ireland, said: It is encouraging to see strong support for EU membership in Ireland, albeit a decline on recent years.

In our 12th year of polling, it is clear that we cannot be complacent, with some people expressing dissatisfaction with the EUs current trajectory and Irish influence at EU level.

At a pivotal time in European politics with intensifying efforts to end the war in Ukraine, the ongoing issues relating to EU-US trade which could have serious implications for Ireland, and the increasing influence of populism, among other issues, it is important citizens feel their views are heard across all levels of the EU.

More than half of respondents (56%) cited cost of living as the most pressing issue for people in the Republic of Ireland, along with housing (41%) and migration (53%).

The poll suggested EU-US relations (44%); the EUs response to the Russia-Ukraine conflict (43%) and to the Israel-Palestine conflict (41%) were also prominent concerns.

Respondents in Northern Ireland cited the Israel-Palestine conflict as their top concern at EU level (52%).

Half of those polled in the Republic of Ireland believe the state should be part of increased EU defence and security co-operation, with 32% opposing it and 18% unsure.

Ms O Connell said: This years poll clearly shows that Irish people are worried about both domestic and global issues, from the cost of living and housing to EU-US relations and the EUs response to migration and international conflicts.

As the debate on the future of Europes security and defence continues, building trust, dialogue and understanding around this complex issue is more important than ever.

The poll also suggested that a majority would support a united Ireland within the EU, with 67% in Northern Ireland and 62% in Ireland in favour.

Opposition to a United Ireland in the EU is higher in Northern Ireland (27%) compared to the Republic of Ireland (16%).

In Northern Ireland, a majority (60%) believe changes in the EU-UK relationship following Brexit have not improved the regions relationship with the EU.

Amarach Research was commissioned by the European Movement Ireland to undertake the survey on attitudes to the EU across the island of Ireland.

It used a sample of 1,200 people aged 18 or over in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

The data was collected online between March 26-28 and has a margin of error: +/- 2.5%.
Stock Market News

VOD News - Vodafone finance chief to step down; shares fall 07-05-2025 00:41



Stock News headlines are gathered from financial news sources around the web. Views and opinions on each item are from their respective authors and website. They are not opinions of LiveCharts.co.uk
In March 2024, foreign carmakers took note when India proposed low-duty imports for a few thousand electric cars, if they promised to invest a specific amount here. But with the Centre yet to finalize the schemes guidelines, manufacturers have shifted their sights to expected duty reductions in free trade agreements (FTAs) under discussion, three industry executives said.

The Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI), dubbed the Tesla Policy, was seen as part of New Delhi's attempt to attract the US carmaker after its CEO Elon Musk publicly criticized the countrys high import duties on automobiles.

Under the scheme, approved car makers were to be allowed to import up to 8,000 electric vehicles (EVs) a year at 15% duty against the usual 70-110% tariff on the import of fully made cars, which are called completely built units (CBUs).

The concession was contingent upon minimum investments worth 4,150 crore. Tesla, the Volkswagen Group, Hyundai Motor India Ltd, Toyota Kirloskar and Vietnams Vinfast were among entities who were previously reported to be interested in the scheme.

There hasnt been much movement on the manufacturing scheme by the government," one of the executives cited above, who works with a foreign carmaker interested in the EV scheme, said on condition of anonymity. The talks of India with the US on auto imports give us hope that there is going to be a broader reduction of tariffs on CBUs."

Also read | Ubers lifeline off the table for BluSmart as EV depreciation becomes key contention

In a statement to Mint on 6 May, Hyundai India said the government is discussing a programme with the industry to roll out a programme for widespread EV manufacturing and adoption. HMIL has been making in India for the past nearly three decades and welcomes any step to promote local manufacturing that offers innovative and safe mobility solutions to people and job creation," a spokesperson said. We await the rollout of the final policy and guidelines."

Emailed queries to Volkswagen Group, Tesla, Toyota, Vinfast and the heavy industries ministry remained unanswered.

Tesla has been vocal about its concerns on the tariffs on EVs. The same car which we're sending is 100% more expensive than what it is. So, that creates a lot of anxiety. People feel OK, they're paying too much for the car ...That's why we've been very careful trying to figure out when is the right time (to enter India)," Teslas chief financial officer Vaibhav Taneja said during an earnings call in April.

While Tesla's entry is still anticipated, the company has not pledged any investment in making a plant in the country. Last month, Musk spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi over potential collaboration in the areas of technology and innovation".

Read this | Mahindra looks to use its EV playbook to strengthen foray into electric bus space via SML Isuzu acquisition

India has to relax its tariff norms to allow more foreign cars to come in as the electric car market has not grown at a pace which was anticipated," the executive quoted above said.

In 2024, India's electric car market grew by 20% to reach nearly 100,000 units as per Vahan portal data. However, these cars still account for just 2.5% of the overall numbers.

The trade agreement route

Thanks to US President Donald Trump, talks for trade agreements seem to have accelerated. Earlier, Mint had reported that the government is also open to tweaking the EV policy based on the outcomes of bilateral trade agreement and free trade agreement talks.

Currently, India is in talks with the US, the European Union and other countries for possible trade agreements.

On Tuesday, India concluded a long-awaited trade agreement with the UK, which mentions that India has agreed to reduce automotive tariffs from over 100% to 10% under a quota".

Experts, though, are sceptical about the trade agreement route being a viable option for EV makers. For foreign carmakers, it is important to look at setting up manufacturing facilities in India if there is ambition to scale in the country," said Abhishek Saxena, earlier a public expert at Niti Aayog. While there are hopes of tariff reductions due to trade agreements, these are complex conversations."

Also read | EVs hit with falling resale value as consumer demand cools

Pinning hopes on a uniform tariff reduction might not be the best option. Given the strict deadlines for value addition and approvals, the foreign carmakers may have apprehensions about the EV manufacturing scheme," he said.

Meanwhile, Indias biggest car maker Maruti Suzuki Ltd has been sceptical about the growth of EVs unless the concerns over charging infrastructure and resale value are resolved. Due to the limited scope of growth in the domestic market, Maruti has been looking at international markets closely.

A majority of the electric cars produced by the car maker this year will be exported due to the limited scope of growth in the Indian market. Until the number of people who can buy cars increases substantially, there will not be much growth in any kind of cars," R.C. Bhargava, chairman of Maruti Suzuki India Ltd, warned in an earnings call.

And read | India open to revising EV manufacturing policy for foreign automakers post US tariff clarity
Honda Cars India has announced special discounts on some of the popular cars for the month of May. These special promotions include discounts on its popular Elevate, Amaze and City. The carmaker offers significant price discounts across the companys vehicle lineup almost every month. This includes buyback offers, corporate packages, loyalty bonus and a complimentary seven-year extended warranty.

Discounts on Honda City The automaker is offering discounts up to 63,000 on the City model, while the Honda City Hybrid has received special benefits of up to 65,000. Notably, these offers are valid for all the variants of City and City Hybrid cars. To recall, the sedan locks horns with Hyundai Verna, Volkswagen Virtus, and Skoda Slavia in the segment.

Discounts on Honda Elevate The Elevate has received a special discount this month worth up to 76,100 on its top-tier variant, which is the Elevate ZX. Notably, the SUV is a string rival of MG Astor, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Kia Seltos in India in this segment. This car houses a powerful 1.5-litre naturally aspirated 4 pot engine.

Discounts on Honda Amaze The new Honda Amaze has received corporate discounts and a special loyalty bonus for existing Honda customers. However, the sedan is not getting any cash benefits. A significant benefit of up to 57200 has been announced for the Amaze. It is noteworthy that the special benefits are not available on the third-generation Amaze, which has been launched recently by the Japanese automaker. However, the car manufacturer is offering EMIs starting at 1111 per lakh for the sedan.
Mumbai, India, 7thMay 2025: The 21st edition of IREX will be held on the 9th and 10th of May, 2025, at The St. Regis, Mumbai. The show is a unique platform that offers various options and prospects of international real estate investment, residency and citizenship across the world. The conclave will bring together international real estate companies, residency and citizenship consultants, legal consultants, government bodies, property developers and other stakeholders from all over the world, under one roof. Many of the exhibitors are showcasing the EB5 visa program of the US government that offers fast track green card.

The EB-5 Visa Program is an investment-based visa program offered by the US government that offers a path to permanent residency in the U.S. to foreign investors who make significant investments to create at least 10 permanent jobs in the U.S. economy. Launched in 1990, this program enables foreign investors to obtain a U.S. Green Card by investing in a business or real estate project that creates jobs for the U.S. economy. The EB-5 Investment visa requires a minimum investment of USD 800,000 in an EB-5 approved real estate project, fund or business in the United States.

The EB-5 investor visa program provides an opportunity for foreign nationals to earn a permanent visa (Green Card) to live and work in the United States providing a path towards US citizenship. Witnessing the growing traction to the US EB5 Investor Visa Program, India is now the second largest market for EB5 in Asia. India has seen a dramatic increase in the number of investors applying for the EB5 Visa as an alternative to H-1B visas. According to the latest data, the number of EB5 Visa applications from India has surged from ~750 applications in 2019 to 10,000+ applications in 2022.

Leading regional centers such as U.S. Immigration Fund, CMB Regional Centers, EB5 Capital, Civitas Capital, FirstPathway Partners are showcasing their EB-5 projects and investment options at the upcoming edition of IREX Residency & Citizenship Conclave 2025, Mumbai. The show will have participation from leading EB-5 law firms such as CSG Law to answer questions pertaining to the legalities of investing in EB-5 for Indian Investors.

An EB-5 Experts Panel Discussion will also take place during the Conference on the first day of the show to discuss the evolving EB-5 program landscape and strategies for Investors. This panel is sponsored by EB5 Capital and Civitas Capital, the EB-5 Panel Partners of IREX 2025, Mumbai.

The 21st edition of IREX is going to be held on the 9th and 10th of May, 2025, at The St. Regis, Mumbai.

Girish Mohile, Vice President, CMB Regional Centres states: As one of the most experienced regional centers in the industry, CMB Regional Centers brings over 27 years of EB-5 expertise to support our clients. Were proud to have returned more than $1.3 billion in capital to investors across more than 80 EB-5 offerings. The IREX event in Mumbai is always a highlight for usparticularly the engaging panel discussions that bring together thought leaders of the EB-5 industry. We look forward to the event and the opportunity to engage directly with esteemed attendees and prospective investors."

Nicholas Mastroianni III, President of the U.S. Immigration Fund says: As a leading EB-5 Regional Center, U.S. Immigration Fund is proud to offer premier investment opportunities through projects like Alpine 93/40, a Rural TEA project, and 1 Journal Square, an I-956F approved project located in a High Unemployment Area. These offerings not only meet the USCIS requirements for visa eligibility but also provide investors access to the Opportunity Fund Lender EB-5 financing program. This exclusive loan program helps qualified individuals fund a portion of their EB-5 investment, making the path to U.S. residency more accessible while investing in impactful, job-creating developments.

Civitas Capital Group recently marked its 15-year anniversary and announced its 1,500th EB-5 investor. This is a wonderful achievement, says Daniel J. Healy, CEO and founder of Civitas. Healy said that Civitas takes its pledge seriously to be not only stewards of our investors but also of the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program itself. Its an immense source of pride that weve been able to help over 1,500 investor families from more than 40 countries invest in the U.S. and begin their path to citizenship, all while creating more than 20,000 American jobs and boosting the economy.

Established in 2008, EB5 Capital has raised over $1 billion in EB-5 financing, positioning itself under the top investment issuers in the industry, says Rhea Nundy, Director  Investor Relations, India at EB5 Capital. We have helped over 2,000 investors and their families migrate to the United States. Headquartered in Washington DC, we have a team of over 50 people spread across the globe helping investors from over 75 different countries. We operate with the goal of returning our investors money on time and with every attempt to minimize risk. Therefore, we offer small-to-medium-sized recession-resistant projects. EB5 Capitals India market representatives will be available during IREX Mumbai to engage with potential referral partners and EB-5 investors, to discuss the current projects open for investment.

IREX is a unique platform that offers a wide range of options and opportunities for international real estate investment, residency, and citizenship across the world. The conclave will bring together 23 international real estate companies, residency and citizenship consultants, legal advisors and other stakeholders from all over the world. They will be offering real estate investment, residency, and citizenship-by investment opportunities in USA, Canada, UK, Greece, Portugal, Cyprus, Austria, Germany, Malta, Latvia, Italy, Spain, Turkey, UAE, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Australia, the Caribbean, etc. The projects and programs showcased at the event will have an investment size starting from INR 2.5 crores onwards.

IREX is organised by GMN Media Pvt. Ltd, New Delhi. The year 2025 marks the 10th year of successful series of IREX shows held in Dubai, Delhi, Mumbai and Hyderabad. It is Indias leading B2C event that has consistently provided a premier platform to investors for global real estate investments and residency and citizenship options.

Register to attend IREX 2025, Mumbai via:https://www.irexindia.com/visitor/register/
Why is it a big blow to JSW?

The Supreme Court ruling invalidating JSW Steels 19,700 crore acquisition of BPSL is a major blow to its growth ambitions, especially its 2030 target of achieving 50 million tonnes (mt) of steel capacity. JSW paid 19,350 crore to settle BPSLs creditors. BPSLs Odisha Jharsuguda plant contributed 13% to JSWs total production and around 10-11% of Ebitda (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization). Analysts say losing the asset could slash JSWs FY26 Ebitda by 4,0004,500 crore. The ruling affects 2.5mt of flat products, disrupting downstream sectors.

Can this problem spill over to other sectors?

With the SC annulling JSW Steels acquisition, banks must return 19,350 crore under the March 2020 CoC undertaking. JSW had paid this to settle 47,204.51 crore owed to BPSLs financial creditors. Major public lenders like State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank and Canara Bank, along with private lenders like Axis Bank and Karur Vysya Bank, are affected. With BPSL now heading for liquidation, lenders are likely to recover far less than under the resolution plan. This affects earnings, especially amid pressure on PSU banks margins and could worsen with Reserve Bank of Indias expected rate cuts in FY26.

Also Read | Mint Primer | Indias economy looks strong. What could go wrong?

Is this the end of the line or is a review possible?

JSW Steel and the lenders can file a review petition before the Supreme Court within 30 days under Article 137 of the Constitution. A full reversal is unlikely, say analysts, but partial reliefsuch as clarity on JSWs paid fundsis possible. A new bench may hear the petition, as Justice Bela Trivedi, who was part of the ruling bench, is set to retire in the first week of June.

Is there a role for the government here?

The government is reviewing the ruling decision. Department of Financial Services secretary M. Nagaraju said the matter could soon be placed before the government for legal or policy action. Experts suggest the Centre may issue an ordinance to uphold the finality of resolution plans and curb post-resolution litigation. Drawing from Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code amendments, the Centre may consider statutory protection for resolution applicants like JSW to avoid uncertainty in future insolvencies.

What can be the impact on the IBC?

Experts warn that the judgment could weaken the IBC by eroding the finality of resolution plans. Reopening settled cases over procedural lapses may deter bold decisions by lenders and the CoC. Resolution professionals might become too cautious, slowing things to avoid risk. Using Article 142 to reverse an implemented resolution plan and order liquidation is unprecedented and raises concerns of judicial overreach, potentially disrupting the balance in Indias insolvency regime.
Smaller information technology (IT) services companies earning $1-5 billion in revenue outgrew the Big Four by more than three times in FY25, a performance they may repeat in the year ahead, multiple analysts tracking the sector said. Better execution skills and skilful navigation of the GenAI disruption have helped the mid-cap IT companies eat into the business of their larger rivals.

Coforge, Persistent Systems and Hexaware Technologies Ltd reported revenue growth of 31.5%, 18.8%, and 13.7%, respectively in the last fiscal year. To be sure, Hexaware follows a January-December financial year while other homegrown IT services companies follow an April-March financial calendar. Meanwhile, Tata Consultancy Services Ltd, Infosys Ltd and HCL Technologies grew 3.78%, 3.85% and 4.3% respectively, and Wipro Ltd's revenue fell 2.72%.

Historically, all these companies would bid for different projects but over the last 12 months, the rise of Gen AI has enabled smaller companies to compete with their larger peers.

Deflationary tech

Inherently, new technologies tend to be deflationary, a headwind for incumbents and an opportunity for challengers. Additionally, the difference in technology expertise (skill + scale) narrows down in new technologies, aiding challengers. It will be difficult for incumbents to aggressively incorporate Gen AI into their services portfolios, given the larger size relative to challengers who can better afford to cannibalize existing revenues to get a bigger portion of the pie from incumbents," said Kotak Institutional Equities analysts Kawaljeet Saluja, Sathishkumar S., and Vamshi Krishna, in a note dated 2 May.

Stable leaderships have helped too. Coforge, Persistent and Hexaware have each had chief executive officers (CEOs) who have been in their positions for more than five years.

Also read | Creditors seize pledged shares as small, mid-caps slide

Srikrishna Ramakarthikeyan took over as CEO of Hexaware in August 2014, whereas Sandeep Kalra took over as Persistent Systems CEO in October 2020. Both were former HCLTech employees who had been in the company more than a decade. Sudhir Singh took over as Coforge CEO in May 2017. He had spent a little more than nine years at Infosys.

This is in contrast to TCS, Wipro and Tech Mahindra, each of which have new CEOs with less than two years of experience at the helm.

Leadership

K. Krithivasan took over as TCS CEO in June 2023 whereas Mohit Joshi joined Tech Mahindra as its CEO in December 2023. Srinivas Pallia was the latest entrant to the CEO club after he took over Wipros reins in April last year.

This suggests that work experience in a larger IT services firm may have helped the chief executives of smaller IT outsourcers grow faster.

We forecast strong 20.8% organic c/c revenue growth in FY26, an acceleration from 16.4% in FY25E on the back of (1) strong broad-based growth momentum across geos, verticals and services, (2) healthy increase in 12-month order backlog, up 47.7% yoy and 10.3% qoq buoyed by the Sabre deal; (3) strong deal win trajectory and pipeline and (4) revenue synergies from Cigniti through cross-selling of Coforges services to Cignitis F-500 accounts. We expect Coforge to be the industry leader of revenue growth in FY2026 on an organic basis," said Kotak Institutional Equities analysts Kawaljeet Saluja, Sathishkumar S, and Vamshi Krishna, in a note dated 6 May.

Read this | How a US tech giants AI ambitions came to be Indian ITs bugbear

Smaller peer Persistent Systems is expected to keep its momentum going.

Persistence

PSYS(Persistent Systems) unique value proposition and its strong play around regulated verticals are keeping it more resilient in this adverse environment. Additionally, the investments around hiring senior leadership team within key verticals have been instrumental in fueling client mining/hunting activities and closing large strategic deals," said Prabhudas Lilladher analysts Pritesh Thakkar and Sujay Chavan in a note dated 24 April.

While Coforge expects a strong FY26 on the back of its deal wins and pipeline, L&T Technology Services Ltds management expects FY26 to be better than FY25, much like TCS.

For now, mid-cap IT services companies including LTIMindtree Ltd, Mphasis Ltd, Coforge Ltd, Persistent Systems Ltd, Hexaware Technologies Ltd, and L&T Technology Services Ltd have outperformed their larger peers.

The mid-caps reported yearly revenue growth between 4.43% and 29.15% whereas the large caps reported an at best growth of 4.3% on a yearly basis, lower than the worst-faring mid-cap company.

Divergence

This divergence in performance signals that smaller IT services companies have weathered the economic uncertainty much better than their larger peers.

Coforge was Indian IT's best performer last year, as revenue flooded in from Cigniti, the Hyderabad-based engineering services company that it bought last May in its biggest acquisition. Coforge also became the only company among its peers to sign a mega deal, those valued at over $1 billion, last year. It ended March 2025 with a full-year revenue of $1.45 billion.

The Noida-headquartered company also inked a $1.56 billion, 13-year deal with Sabre, a Texas-based travel technology company, in March.

Also read | Persistence pays off as India gets a new ninth-largest IT company

The mega deal and the Cigniti acquisition propelled Coforge to become India's eighth-largest IT services company. Much like TCS, Coforges chief executive said that FY26 was expected to be a strong growth year for the company on the back of a strong order pipeline, when he addressed analysts in the companys post-earnings call on Monday.

At least one executive said that IT companies would need a steady pipeline of deals to withstand the macroeconomic uncertainty.

Feet dragging

We have not seen any cancellations, we are seeing a certain amount of feet dragging in terms of deal closures. I do believe personally that in our industry, we will need more pipeline to be able to do the bookings whether it is Persistent or somebody else. And so we are at it, and we may do investments in sales and marketing and in our go-to-market accordingly," said Sandeep Kalra, chief executive of Persistent Systems, as part of the companys post-earnings analyst call on 24 April.

A key sore point for the Big Five was its slim order book. TCS and Wipro started FY26 with an order book which was smaller than the one they had at the start of FY25, while Infosys clocked fewer large deals in FY25, implying weaker revenue growth in the year ahead.

In contrast, Coforge reported $2.1 billion in orders during the January-March period, its strongest order book in a quarter, whereas LTIMindtree reported a second consecutive quarter of orders exceeding $1.5 billion in contract value.

Also read | Coforge has won a mega tech deal, but can Sabre service the contract?

However, the questions dont end here. Experts said that mid-caps are eating into the revenue of the large caps.

The Tier-2 set have been taking away market share from the Tier-1 set due to better execution and due to their smaller size. And unlike in the past cycles, they have performed better than the Tier-1 largely due to better management teams," said Girish Pai, head of equity research for Bank of Baroda Capital Markets, in a note dated 29 April.

Smaller teams

A third analyst said that mid-caps also worked with smaller teams and a more specialized focus that enabled them to have a deeper understanding of the client and access to more work.

Mid-caps have smaller teams which work quicker compared with large teams and this makes it easier for them to respond to client requests," said a Mumbai-based analyst on condition of anonymity.

A fourth analyst partly agreed with the assertion that mid-caps can eat the lunch of their larger peers, adding that smaller IT services companies can respond to clients' needs quicker when the latter want to increase their non-essential tech spending.

Discretionary demand changes over time and at times, it's small when a new opportunity like digital or AI comes along. Slowly, the projects become bigger and in the initial stages of such discretionary spend scenarios where project sizes are small (where we are now) some mid caps, who have timely built skills and capabilities in that space can be more nimble in responding to those needs," said Ashutosh Sharma, research director at Forrester.

And read | LTIMindtree: New year, new plan  but will it work?
(Bloomberg) -- Arm Holdings Plc gave a lackluster sales forecast for the current period, saying that the timing of new licensing agreements has made the chip company cautious about its predictions.

Revenue will be $1 billion to $1.1 billion in the fiscal first quarter, Arm said in a statement Wednesday. Wall Street had estimated a number at the highest end of that range. Profit will be 30 to 38 cents a share, minus certain items, also lower than analysts projections.

Arm shares fell more than 8% in extended trading following the announcement. The stock had been up less than 1% this year through the close.

The company is in the process of closing new licensing deals and wants to make sure theyre signed before it adds the revenue to its outlook, according to Chief Executive Officer Rene Haas. Customers continue to push ahead with investment in chips, particularly for artificial intelligence computing, and thats benefiting Arm, he said.

Arm gets paid in the form of license fees and royalties for its technology, which governs the ways chips and software communicate. Licensing revenue was $634 million last quarter, while royalty sales were $607 million.

Weve been conservative to make sure we dont overreach, Haas said in an interview. The health of the business is unbelievably strong. Were seeing huge momentum in our data center business.

Arms forecast dovetails with commentary from chip industry peers, which told investors there was a strong start to 2025, but the economic environment has clouded forecasts.

Fourth-quarter revenue rose 34% to $1.24 billion, marking the first time it exceeded a billion dollars. That compares with a $1.23 billion prediction from analysts, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Excluding some items, profit was 55 cents a share, topping the average estimate of 52 cents.

The outlook provides a window into the future component plans of some of the worlds largest companies, which license its technology to use as the basis of in-house designed chips. Its royalty revenue  charged based on devices sold  is a barometer for major electronics categories, particularly smartphones.

Arm has emerged as a central player in efforts to promote AI technology. Its part of a project called Stargate aimed at expanding US-based AI infrastructure, alongside majority owner SoftBank Group Corp. and OpenAI. Its also involved in a similar endeavor in Japan, where SoftBank is based.

Though Arm had its initial public offering two years ago, roughly 90% of the company is still owned by SoftBank.

Arms technology is fundamental to semiconductors that run most of the worlds smartphones. Under Haas, the Cambridge, UK-based company has sought to extend its reach into data centers and personal computer components  helping it benefit more from AI spending.

(Updates shares in third paragraph.)

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
In another legal setback for Gensol Engineering Ltd and electric ride-hailing startup BluSmart, the Delhi high court on Wednesday barred the companies from creating third-party rights over 220 additional electric vehicles (EVs) leased from two separate lessors.

Justice Jyoti Singh issued the order while appointing court receivers to take possession of the vehicles. However, the court denied the lessors request for repossession, stating that such relief does not fall within the ambit of Section 9 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, under which the petitions were filed.

The court also directed Gensol to submit a status report on the leased EVs within two days after the lessors raised concerns about the vehicles whereabouts. Additionally, Gensol and BluSmart were asked to provide a comprehensive statement of their assets and liabilities.

Read this | Gensol promoters lose over half of their ownership

The order follows petitions by SMAS Auto Leasing India Pvt. Ltd and Shefasteq OPC Pvt. Ltd, which accused Gensol, BluSmart, and their promoters of breaching lease agreements and failing to pay dues.

According to court documents reviewed by Mint, SMAS Auto had leased 164 EVs to Gensol and 46 to BluSmart under separate master lease agreements. Shefasteq claimed it had leased an additional 10 EVs. Both lessors alleged that the companies failed to make timely payments for lease rentals and fleet management charges, despite receiving monthly invoices and having binding contractual obligations.

The continued unauthorized possession of the EVs by the respondents is unlawful and has constrained the petitioner to seek, inter alia, the immediate appointment of a Receiver for taking custody and possession of the said EVs, with a view to preserving and maintaining them in a commercially viable and operable condition, the SMAS plea stated.

It emphasized that EV batteries are sensitive and perishable assets that require regular monitoring and sustained operational useparticularly in extreme heatto prevent irreversible damage.

Wednesday's order marks the third ruling by the same bench in under two weeks.

On 25 April, Justice Singh had restrained the companies from creating third-party rights over 175 EVs leased by Japanese financial services firm Orix. Then, on 29 April, the court barred BluSmart from selling or transferring 95 EVs leased by Clime Finance Pvt Ltd.

With the latest order, a total of 493 leased electric vehicles are now under judicial protection, barring Gensol and BluSmart from selling, transferring, or assigning third-party rights over them.

The court order safeguards the interests of fleet leasing companies by mandating that Gensol disclose to the court and the lessors the current locations and operational status of the leased electric vehicles," said Aditya Bhattacharya, litigation partner at King Stubb and Kasiva and counsel for SMAS Leasing.

"The ruling explicitly underscores the critical importance of battery conditions and proper handling practices, which are essential to the effective operation and maintenance of such vehicles, Bhattacharya added.

Financial and regulatory challenges The latest court order comes amid increasing regulatory scrutiny of the companies.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) recently issued a show-cause notice to Gensol and its promoters for alleged governance lapses, including undisclosed related-party transactions and financial irregularities.

The regulator also barred the Jaggi brothers from holding key managerial roles in any listed company and prohibited Gensol and its promoters from accessing capital markets.

Gensol is also facing inquiries over the handling of approximately 978 crore in loans from Power Finance Corp. (PFC) and the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (Ireda), intended for the purchase of 6,400 EVs. Disclosures indicate that only 4,704 vehicles were actually procured.

PFC has lodged a complaint with the Economic Offences Wing of the Delhi Police, alleging the use of falsified documents to secure the loans. Ireda, which reportedly funded 3,400 EVs, may be short by over 1,400 vehicles based on current filings.

As previously reported by Mint, PFC is considering legal actions, including insolvency proceedings and debt recovery tribunal filings, to recover dues.
Google parent Alphabet's shares fell over 8% after Apple executive Eddy Cue said that the company is actively looking at adding artificial intelligence-powered search options to its Safari browser. This could potentially deal a big blow to Google's dominance of the lucrative search market.

At 2:52 PM ET, shares of Google were down 8.8%, wiping off over $150 billion from Alphabet's market value. Apple stock also fell after Cue said searches on Safari fell for the first time last month due to users increasingly turning to AI, a Reuters report said.

According to the report, the Apple executive made these comments while testifying as a witness for Google in the US Department of Justice's (DoJ) antitrust case over Google's dominance in online search.

Google is the default search engine on Apple's browser, a coveted position for which it pays Apple roughly $20 billion annually, or about 36% of its search advertising revenue generated through the Safari browser, analysts have estimated, the report said.

The report said that both companies and the DoJ did not respond to requests for comment.

What was Eddy Cue's testimony? During his testimony, Cue said that searches on Safari fell for the first time last month, which he attributed to users increasingly turning to AI, a Bloomberg report said.

He said he believes AI search providers, including OpenAI and Perplexity AI, will eventually replace standard search engines such as Google, and that Apple will add those players as options in Safari in the future, according to the report.

"We will add them to the list - they probably wont be the default," Bloomberg cited Cue as saying.

Challenges Google could face ahead Reports suggest that any shift in Apple's approach could reshape the search landscape, given its vast installed base of around 2.5 billion devices. Apple is one of the world's most influential gatekeepers for online search.

Besides, Google is already facing fierce competition from AI startups such as OpenAI and Perplexity AI. While Google is trying to secure an agreement to embed its Gemini AI technology in Apple's latest devices, the latter has already struck a deal with OpenAI to offer ChatGPT as an option in Siri.

"The loss of exclusivity at Apple should have very severe consequences for Google even if there are no further measures," Reuters quoted D.A. Davidson analyst Gil Luria as saying.

"Many advertisers have all of their search advertising with Google because it is practically a monopoly with almost 90% share. If there were other viable alternatives for search, many advertisers could move much of their ad budgets away from Google," Luria added.
(Bloomberg) -- New Zealand Finance Minister Nicola Willis sought a meeting with former Reserve Bank Governor Adrian Orr to discuss bank capital requirements in the weeks prior to his sudden resignation, documents released under the Official Information Act show.

Willis also sought advice on her powers to direct the central bank on prudential policy, according to the documents released Wednesday in Wellington.

Bloomberg requested all correspondence between Williss office, the RBNZ and the Treasury Department in the month before Orrs departure on March 5. The emails and documents released add further fuel to suggestions that Orr resigned amid pressure from Willis for the bank to loosen bank capital requirements, which she has said are pushing up borrowing costs.

Orr is yet to speak publicly about the reasons for his decision to leave less than half-way through his second five-year term. Since he left, the RBNZ has announced a review of the tougher bank capital rules that Orr championed.

Willis requested a meeting with Orr on Feb. 7 to discuss bank capital settings, according to emails from her office dated Feb. 3.

The RBNZ responded that Orr was on leave that day and was also involved with our forecast week preparations ahead of the Feb. 19 Monetary Policy Statement.

Williss office then asked for a meeting on Feb. 5, which was rebuffed, before proposing Feb. 10.

This prompted Orr himself to reply that it would be inappropriate for him to meet with the minister during a period in which he was chairing deliberations on monetary policy.

The monetary policy week is sacrosanct to the Monetary Policy Committees independence and deliberately so to protect the Minister  amongst other parties  and NZs financial reputation, Orr wrote in an email on Feb. 4. This makes meetings during this period difficult, unless urgent and necessary. Please understand I am here to assist but need to act appropriately.

Orr furthermore said bank capital was a wide and long running topic and there were many in the RBNZ who could assist. I am fine to discuss post MPS, or via a written briefing, or via staff outside of the MPC if more urgent, he said.

Willis was undeterred, and continued to ask for a meeting this week or next to discuss bank capital settings.

Orr replied on Feb. 5, saying he wont be able to meet with the Minister to discuss bank capital issues until post the MPS deliberations but noted he planned to see her on Feb. 17 or 18 for their regular discussions ahead of the rate decision.

He said that the RBNZ board chair and deputy governor should attend any meeting on bank capital, and proposed Feb. 24, which was confirmed by Williss office later that week.

On Feb. 13, Treasury wrote to the ministers office regarding a question she had about using section 68B under RBNZ legislation.

It said that section gave the government the power to direct the RBNZ on prudential policy, but was replaced by the Financial Policy Remit in 2021.

Section 68B was rarely used in practice  referred to as nuclear option  whereas the FPR is always in force, which normalizes having Government policy as a regard in prudential standards and strategic intentions set by the RBNZ, Treasury said in an email that was partly redacted.

Further documents show the RBNZs five-year funding agreement was also a topic of interest for Willis during February. Willis later announced a less funding for the bank than it had sought from the government.

Not all of the documents requested were released to Bloomberg, and there was no disclosure of what was discussed at the Feb. 24 meeting.

Nine days later, Orr resigned.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
Mumbai: The Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT) on Wednesday refused to grant interim relief to Gensol Engineering Ltd, which is being investigated by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) for alleged fund misutilization and fraudulent disclosures.

While SAT did not stay Sebis 15 April, it instructed Gensol to file a response to Sebis show-cause notice within two weeks. A confirmatory order from Sebi is expected four weeks after the hearing.

On 15 April, Sebi barred Gensols founder-promoters, Anmol Singh Jaggi and Puneet Jaggi, from the securities market and from holding executive roles at the company, citing the diversion of funds and misuse of loan proceeds. Gensol has contested the order, arguing that Sebi presented a distorted narrative that caused significant reputational and commercial harm.

Read this | Gensol promoters lose over half of their ownership

Legal experts note that Gensol still has avenues for appeal, including approaching the Supreme Court or challenging the confirmatory order once issued.

While SAT appears to have declined interim relief at this stage, Gensol retains the right to challenge the final confirmatory order once issued by Sebi, said Saiyam Chaturvedi, partner at DMD Advocates. Additionally, there is scope for seeking recourse before the Supreme Court in exceptional circumstances.

However, some experts are sceptical about the Supreme Court intervening at this stage.

Gensol is entitled to approach the Supreme Court against Sebi's ex-parte order, but now that SAT has given four weeks to Sebi to pass a confirmatory order, and granted the company an opportunity of hearing, the apex court may choose not to intervene, as principles of natural justice have been complied with, said Chirag M. Shah, a senior securities lawyer.

Akshaya Bhansali, partner at Mindspright Legal, echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Gensol focus on a governance strategy instead.

The company should approach the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) and cooperate with proceedings before the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) for the appointment of a new set of directors, Bhansali said. Quick action and support from the government is of prime importance so that the funds provided by the PFC, Ireda, and investors are not jeopardized due to the mismanagement of key functionaries of the company.

In its appeal, Gensol described Sebis orderbarring the company and its executives from the securities marketas selective and sensationalist, stating it caused irreparable damage without providing an opportunity to be heard.

The order has selectively examined facts and intentionally leaves out facts to try and attempt to make out a case of ad interim directions, the appeal stated. It further alleged that Sebi failed to consider the cascading consequences on shareholders and business continuity. If anything, the effect of the said order is counter-intuitive and directly harms public shareholders, Gensol contended.

The appeal highlighted that the companys stock has dropped by more than 90%, and clients like NTPC and JSW have either cancelled or threatened to exit contracts.

The news in the media in the last couple of weeks about Gensol has thoroughly destroyed its image, the company said, warning that even a profitable business could now face insolvency.

A key Sebi allegation was that Gensol misused a 71.41 crore loan from IREDA to purchase a luxury apartment via Capbridge LLP, a related party. Gensol denied this, emphasizing that Sebis order itself acknowledged Capbridge had repaid 47.50 crore to Go-Auto on 31 March 2023.

The fact related to the purchase of the flat by CapBridge has unnecessarily been highlighted just to gain some media leverage and create a media frenzy around the same, all the while deliberately ignoring and negating the fact that the purchase of the said property by CapBridge has not come at the cost of Gensols expense whatsoever, the appeal added.
New Delhi: Elon Musks Starlink has received government approval to operate satellite internet services in India, two officials aware of the development said.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a letter of intent after the company agreed to comply with licensing conditions critical to national security, one of the officials said.

The approval positions Starlink to join Eutelsat OneWeb and the Jio-SES joint venture in the satellite internet market. The timing is notable, as it comes just a day after the government tightened security norms for satellite internet firms, mandating data localization, lawful interception, gateway security clearance, and local manufacturing requirements.

Read this | Indus Towers downplays satellite internet impact on operations

As per the process, the company has been issued the letter of intent. They will start preparation to launch its services in the country," the second official said, adding that there will be demonstrations of its services before giving the final licence.

Starlink had applied for the Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) licence in 2022, a key regulatory requirement for satellite-based communications in India. Additionally, the company will need approval from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) for its constellation of satellites and the capacity it plans to deploy in the country.

Minister of State for communications Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani said on 6 May that Starlinks application was in the final stages of approval. Last month, the companys senior executives met with commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal to seek expedited clearances and outline plans for expanding operations in India.

Meanwhile, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) is in the process of finalizing recommendations for allocating satellite spectrum. Once spectrum is assigned, satellite firms will be able to commercially roll out services.

Read this | Airtel-Starlink pact: , Musk edge past Ambani in satellite internet race

Notably, for Eutelsat OneWeb and Jio, the government had first issued a letter of intent before granting them GMPCS licences to start satellite communication services.

As part of its rollout strategy, Starlink will now need to set up earth station gatewaysground-based facilities that connect satellites to local networks, a critical component for internet connectivity.

In March, SpaceX, Starlinks parent company, tied up with Bharti Airtel and Jio Platforms, Indias largest telecom operators, to potentially distribute Starlink equipment through their retail stores and offer services to business customers, schools, and health centres.

Globally, Starlink operates the worlds largest satellite constellation, with over 6,750 satellites in orbit.

Telecom operators that previously resisted satellite-based players to limit competition are now exploring collaborations with Starlink, reflecting a shift in strategy amid growing demand for reliable connectivity.

Analysts say Starlinks entry could help bridge the digital divide, particularly in rural areas where internet access remains limited.

Also read | Amazon wants to be a satellite-internet powerhouse. It has a long way to go.

Forty percent of Indias population does not have internet access, with rural areas comprising the majority of these cases. This represents a large market opportunity for Starlink," brokerage Bernstein had noted in a report dated 4 March.
When Anthony Bielobockies stock portfolio was decimated by the dot-com crash, he went searching for answers. He found Warren Buffett.

So when the Oracle of Omaha revealed Saturday he planned to step down in December as chief executive of Berkshire Hathaway, his conglomerate for the past 60 years, Bielobockie was one of many individual investors who felt a pang of sadness for the end of a long run.

A lot of people look at him like finance dad," said Bielobockie, who credits Buffett for persuading him to think less like a trader and more as a long-term owner in his investments. For sure, its going to be a loss."

Buffett, who is 94, said Monday he will remain Berkshires chairman. But on Jan. 1, the role of overseeing the companys myriad businesses and making decisions on how to put its capital to use will fall to Greg Abel, the CEO-in-waiting since 2021. Buffett has long praised Abel for his skills as a manager and a dealmaker.

Some individuals said they have no reason to doubt Abel. But his talents, however valuable they are to a conglomerate that employs more than 392,000 people, arent what draws them to Buffett or his company. Decades of stunning returns and folksy witticisms, the capacity to weigh in on anything and the willingness to laugh at himself, won over millions of fans.

Buffetts admirers, many of whom have never owned Berkshire stock, have read his shareholder letters and the library of biographies on his long career. They follow his advice, and recite his quotes with gusto. Will they hang on Abels words as they have Buffetts?

I kind of doubt it," Bielobockie said. Abel is going to be a super effective managerbut hes not a celebrity. He doesnt have that aura."

Allen Tran, 27, was in grade school when his father first taught him about Buffett. He became an inspiration for pursuing his own investing career.

Buffett was just a quintessential example of the American dream," said Tran, whose parents immigrated from Vietnam. Being able to identify a specific individual I knew I could look up tothat was a very key step in my development and love of this industry."

Tran is now CEO of HaiKhuu Trading, a company that runs chat rooms for individual investors. He respects Abel, even if cant see him ever filling Buffetts shoes.

Ive not followed the new CEO at all," he said. I dont think realistically I would look up to Greg or honestly anyone the same way I would look up to Warren Buffett. Those are the shoes of a legend."

After pulling out of stocks during the financial crisis of 2008, Ireland took Buffetts advice and put his savings into index funds six months laterjust as the market began to rally. The gains allowed Ireland to keep his plan to retire at age 65 on target.

I listened to him, and through all the ups and downs I stuck with it," Ireland said. If you dont listen to him, youll learn an expensive lesson."

Melissa Caro says she admires Buffetts knack for blending investment guidance and life advice.

Now retired, Ireland said he no longer seeks out investment advice, and wont be watching Abel or Berkshire. I dont know hardly anything about him, other than Buffett felt like he was good enough to do the jobwhich is good enough for me," he said.

Good enough to do the job well, perhaps, but not larger than life.

Im trying to embrace the change," said Melissa Caro, a 53-year-old investor in New York who has been a longtime fan of Buffetts unique mix of investment guidance and life advice. Im looking forward to seeing what Abel is capable of."

Though not a shareholder, Caro will still keep an eye on Berkshire. She sees the next seven months as Buffetts final chapter. And like the many others that have preceded it, this one will offer lessons for his many admirers to follow. Namely, how to pass the torch.

Its like we all have a free business course right now," she said. I think there will be a lot to learn from this."

Write to Hannah Erin Lang at hannaherin.lang@wsj.com
Gin may have lit up cocktail menus over the past few years, but drinkers may be moving on. Agave spirits, tequila and mezcal are taking the spotlight even as vodka makes a quiet comeback. Yet, whisky, Indias long-time favourite, still dominates.

Whether at a rooftop bar or house party, tequila shook off its old party-shot image with affluent urban consumers taking to cocktails like Picante and Paloma. Agave spirits, tequila and mezcal grew the fastest at 36% by volume in the country last year, according to the latest consumption numbers for 2024 that international drinks consultant IWSR shared exclusively withMint.

Vodka volumes rose 5% across price levels, making it one of the stronger performers this year. But brandy and rum stayed mostly flat, with just 2% volume growth, IWSR said. The biggest surprise was gin. While the rise of gin seemed unstoppable until now, its volumes grew just 1% in 2024a sign that the buzz around many homegrown craft gins may be wearing off, or at least slowing down.

Tequilas rise mirrors a growing tendency among Indias younger consumers to try out premium spirits, which has bolstered the industrys growth amid rising incomes and social acceptance. IWSR estimates the country's $32-billion liquor industry to expand by an incremental $7 billion by 2028.

Also read | Following listing, beer maker Kati Patang plans to acquire and incubate small alcohol businesses to expand

In December last year, Bacardi, the company behind Patron tequila, said it would expand its range of agave spirits in India. A year earlier, Diageo-owned United Spirits Ltd introduced Don Julio tequila in the market. The company said Don Julio, which is now available in 20 cities and with newer variants, has received encouraging consumer response.

The country now consumes about 150,000 cases (of nine litres each) of agave spirits, including imported tequila and agave spirits produced in India, according to Conrad Braganza, chief operating officer of Agave India, a homegrown brand better known as Desmondji.

Agave India sells its spirits to consumers as well as several local companies, including Maya Pistola Agavepura.

Post the pandemic, the market really opened up with a bang, at full capacity. It's become a "sexy" category to be associated with both in the US and in markets like India," said Braganza. Agave-based cocktails like the paloma and picante have become as mainstream as the classic gin and tonic." Picante is made with tequila, lime juice, agave syrup and fresh chillis, while the paloma blends tequila with soda, lime juice, and a salted rim.

Churn in gin market

Industry estimates suggest that craft gin as a category, at its peak two years ago, was selling about 350,000-odd cases in India. These volumes have remained constant, say those in the know, suggesting other white spirits may be gaining at its expense.

Theres been some consolidationa few local brands have shut shopbut were also seeing new launches simultaneously. Also, gin now has a much wider base of consumption than some years ago," said Vikram Achanta, founder of Delhi-based drinks consultant Tulleeho. Despite that, mid-sized players are still entering and investing and gin continues to hold its own in cocktail culture, and slower growth isnt a concern yet."

Read this | Spirits up: Premium alcohol sales to grow up to 25% year-on-year in Q3

Tequila, meanwhile, is gaining traction among affluent consumers. Top-shelf tequila is making inroads with the highest socioeconomic drinkers, and its more likely taking share from luxury vodka than gin," added Achanta.

Whisky reigns supreme

Whisky remains Indias go-to alcoholic drink. It still accounts for two-thirds of all spirits sold, IWSR said, although its growth has slowed from an average of 3% a year between 2018 and 2023, to 2% in 2024. According to consultants, thats because drinkers are moving towards more refined options. Malt whiskieswhether Indian, Scotch, Irish or Japanesegrew rapidly and volumes rose 32% annually from 2018 to 2023. While the 2024 numbers for malts arent out yet, the trend toward sipping, rather than mixing, appears to be holding.

"Whisky in India is a self-investing and aspirational category  it keeps growing on its own through consumer demand, innovation and brand investments," said Sandeep Arora, Delhi-based drinks consultant who runs Spiritual Luxury Living, a spirits advisory and marketing firm. Its now much wider as a category and much bigger than ever before."

Despite the marginal dip, he expects a significant growth in 2025 as well and sub-category growth within the whisky gamut.

Also read | Why India is the toast of the global alcohol market: Its young voters

"People are becoming more experience-driven  theyre not just sticking to single malts," Arora added. The category is also benefiting from cultural shifts. Drinking is now part of the social fabric in India, with less taboo and more responsible consumption," he added. Home bars, rising female participation, and innovation across price points will further fuel the growth of whisky."

Ultra-premium category slows

Spirits priced between 1,100 and 2,449 per 750mlknown in the industry as the standard" segmentgrew 12% in 2024, making it the fastest-growing price tier. Even premium labels ( 2,950 to 4,549) saw a healthy 10% jump. But growth slowed at the very top.

Super-premium and luxury spiritspriced at 4,550 and abovegrew by 6%, suggesting that the high-end splurge is becoming more selective. While these top-shelf bottles still carry cachet, they are no longer driving the overall market in the way mid-range spirits are.

At the other end, entry-level bottles under 1,099 barely grew at 2%, in line with the broader market average. Still, the broader Indian spirits market is poised to expand in 2025, according to IWSR. And a potential tariff reduction, especially with the UK, could also bring more international brands to the country to cater to the widening Indian palate.

And read | Zero-alcohol companies look to capture millennial and 'sober curious' drinkers

In a growing market like India where people now have more disposable income, consumers are spending on better-quality products and services.

This is dovetailing into the need for a lot of alcohol companies to premiumize to keep bottom lines evolving," said Shekhar Swarup, joint managing director of Globus Spirits Ltd, known for its Terai gin and Doaab single malt. While expensive bottles like theirs still have takers, most of the action is happening in the mid-range.

United Spirits, in its third-quarter earnings, had highlighted the continuity of the long-term premiumization trend. Even though the top end might take a few more quarters to regain its historical momentum, the company saw no major signs of downtrading and consumption during social occasions was only going up.
Mark Zuckerberg wants you to have AI friends, an AI therapist and AI business agents.

In Zuckerbergs vision for a new digital future, artificial-intelligence friends outnumber human companions and chatbot experiences supplant therapists, ad agencies and coders. AI will play a central role in the human experience, the Facebook co-founder and CEO of Meta Platforms has said in a series of recent podcasts, interviews and public appearances.

I think people are going to want a system that knows them well and that kind of understands them in the way that their feed algorithms do," Zuckerberg said Tuesday during an onstage interview with Stripe co-founder and president John Collison at Stripes annual conference.

Zuckerberg said on a podcast last week that he thinks the average person wants to have more friends and connections with other people than they currently doand that AI friends are a solution.

The average American I think has, its fewer than three friends, three people theyd consider friends, and the average person has demand for meaningfully more, I think its like 15 friends," he said in the interview with podcaster Dwarkesh Patel.

On a separate podcast with media analyst Ben Thompson, Zuckerberg continued: For people who dont have a person whos a therapist, I think everyone will have an AI."

When someone is making a purchase and needs to speak to a person from that business, an AI agent will be there to help them, Zuckerberg said Tuesday.

The Tuesday talk capped a media blitz that included high-profile podcasts and public talks with fellow tech executives including Collison, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and Databricks CEO Ali Ghodsi. While the Meta CEO has been a guest on podcasts before, the number and quick succession of appearances was rare.

Zuckerberg has had mixed success predicting how people will interact with each other in the future. He struck gold with Facebook in the 2000s and made lucrative acquisitions with Instagram and WhatsApp a few years later. More than a decade later, in 2022, he declared that vast numbers of people in the future would interact in virtual worlds and with augmented reality. That bet has yet to come to fruition.

The Meta CEO is now throwing resources at AI chatbotsboth in its social media apps and in its hardware devices. Meta AI, as it is called, is accessible via Instagram and Facebook, as a stand-alone app and on Metas Ray-Ban smart glasses. Zuckerberg said Tuesday that nearly a billion people are using the feature now monthly.

Zuckerberg said personalized AI isnt just about knowing basic information about a user, its about ensuring chatbots behave as a good friend might.

You have a deep understanding of whats going on in this persons life," he said on Thompsons podcast.

Some people, however, arent buying into Zuckerbergs vision.

The very platforms that have led to our social isolation and being chronically online are now posing a solution to the loneliness epidemic," said Meghana Dhar, a former Instagram executive who thinks AI friends will only make such problems worse. It almost seems like the arsonist coming back and being the fireman."

Meta has allowed chatbots on its apps to offer a full range of social interaction, including romantic role-play," even with children, The Wall Street Journal reported.

Stephen Schueller, a professor of psychological science at the University of California, Irvine, said AI chatbots cannot fully replace friends or therapists but there are circumstances where the bots might be helpful.

Most people dont have access to a therapist," he said. So for them, its not chatbot versus therapist. Its chatbot versus nothing."

Write to Meghan Bobrowsky at meghan.bobrowsky@wsj.com
Milan: The Asian Development Bank (ADB), which backs sovereign and private sector development projects in the Asia-Pacific region, said it regretted the loss of lives amid rising India-Pakistan tensions and that stability is central to peace and prosperity.

"We are closely watching the developments in South Asia and regret the loss of life overnight. Stability is the basis for peace, development, and prosperity everywhere. Throughout its 58-year history, ADB has helped foster friendship and stability among countries in Asia and the Pacific through various regional cooperation initiatives," an ADB spokesperson said in response to a query from Mint on Wednesday.

India launched a retaliatory strike on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir early Wednesday, two weeks after the barbaric Pahalgam attack in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were murdered. The defence ministry said Operation Sindoor hit nine sites and was focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature.

Also Read | 'Operation Sindoor' jitters fade: Nifty, Sensex rebound from opening losses in early trade Pakistan Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif said in a social media post that the Indian military strike was a heinous act of aggression, which would not go unpunished.

China called on India and Pakistan to exercise maximum restraint in the larger interest of peace and stability in the region, ETV Bharat reported, quoting a PTI dispatch from Beijing.

We are concerned about the ongoing situation. India and Pakistan are and will always be each others neighbours. They are both Chinas neighbours as well," the report said, adding that China opposed all forms of terrorism.

Development challenges Regional stability is central to ADBs operations as livelihoods and poverty reduction are among its priorities, along with challenges such as climate change, water security, and inequality.

Also Read | Operation Sindoor: Indian highways ready to support IAF with alternative runways The multilateral bank offers financial backing and technical support for sustainable, inclusive and resilient growth in the region. It committed $24.3 billion from its own resources and $14.9 billion of co-financing in collaboration with its partners in 2024 to help countries in Asia and the Pacific to solve a range of complex development challenges, data on its website showed.

The Asia-Pacific region is home to about 33% of the worlds extreme poor and an estimated $1.7 trillion per year is needed until 2030 to fill infrastructure gaps, according to ADB.

Extreme poverty is measured by the threshold of $2.15 a day at 2017 purchasing power parity.
At a time when US President Donald Trumps tariffs are creating waves of uncertainty in the global market, many countries are re-evaluating trade barriers. The India-UK Free Trade Agreement comes in at a crucial time, particularly for Indias automotive industry, which has more export-worthy products than ever before.

According to the FTA, Indian automotive tariffs (which are among the highest in the world) will drop from 100 per cent to 10 per cent. All imports and exports will be subject to a quota on either side; however, no specifics regarding the quota have been shared yet. What is clear is that the deal is expected to give a much-needed boost in terms of investments, allowing Indian automakers to make inroads into the UK and European markets.

India-UK Free Trade Agreement: High-end British automobiles to become cheaper The deal is likely to make the import of high-end UK-built luxury cars much cheaper. This includes brands like Land Rover, Jaguar, Aston Martin, Bentley, and Rolls-Royce, with the latter exporting its vehicles from its sole manufacturing facility in Goodwood, UK. Jaguar Land Rover India currently assembles the Range Rover Evoque, the Range Rover Velar, and the Discovery Sport in Pune, having recently added the Range Rover and the Range Rover Sport to its list of locally assembled cars.

While the local assembly operations are likely to remain unchanged, JLR will be better placed to increase overall capacity, should the demand for these luxury cars increase. While no automotive concern has stated the exact pricing of these cars, post-FTA, Indias top-end luxury car market, which is witnessing record y-o-y growth and is among the top 10 global markets for most luxury carmakers in the world, is set to receive a big boost. For instance, if a base Bentley Bentayga, imported as a CBU, currently costs 4.10 crore, the new tariffs could bring the price to approximately 2.25 crore (not including registration, road tax, etc).

India-UK Free Trade Agreement: Big boost for Make-in-India The India-UK FTA also spells good news for Indian automotive manufacturers who will export greater quantities of India-built cars to the UK, including the Maruti Suzuki Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser, according to a report in Autocar UK. While the specifics of the quota are still awaited, its fair to assume that the UK government will put a cap of some kind on the number of India-built cars that can be imported into the UK.

For many manufacturers like Tata Motors and Mahindra, a strong fleet of electric vehicles is a tabula rasa of sorts, allowing them to enter new, developed markets without needing the sort of brand equity that comes from decades of manufacturing. In the EV world, you dont have to be a brand for 30 years for consumers to accept you, said Mahindras Executive Director and CEO of Auto and Farms Sector Rajesh Jejurikar, at a press conference. Both Tata and Mahindra are expected to roll out plans for expanding their footprint in the UK and European markets.

TVS Motor Company MD Sudarshan Venu echoed similar sentiments. It (the FTA) creates large opportunities for Indian companies like ours to expand further and access new markets. Our British brand Norton will launch later this year and this agreement will help us scale faster and leverage common supply chains
NEW DELHI : With US tariffs looming and global trade uncertainty rising, Indias exporters are turning to a newly signed free trade agreement (FTA) with the UK as a crucial lifelineone that eliminates tariffs on nearly 100% of Indian exports and opens a vital market for textiles, gems, and engineering goods.

The deal comes just as higher tariffs from the US threaten to disrupt key export sectors, prompting Indian businesses to recalibrate their strategies.

The UKs zero-duty access positions it as a strategic alternative, particularly as Indian exporters grapple with the US decision to impose an additional 26% duty on Indian productsa measure temporarily paused until July 8. The bilateral trade agreement (BTA) with the US is not expected until the fall of 2025 (September to November)

The UK has now become a strategic alternative, offering zero-duty access for labour-intensive exports such as apparel, garments, handmade jewellery, and engineering goods," said Dattesh Parulekar, assistant professor of International Relations at Goa University.

Read this | Foreign car firms eye trade deals for EV tariff reduction

However, while the UKs zero-duty access is an enticing offer, experts warn that the real challenge for Indian exporters will be adapting to the competitive dynamics of the UK market.

The trade deal definitely holds promise, but the real gains will depend on how quickly Indian exporters can adapt to the UKs competitive market," said Abhash Kumar, trade economist and assistant professor of economics at Delhi University. Lower tariffs are just one part of the equationour businesses also need to meet quality norms, delivery expectations, and stay compliant with global standards."

Double-edged sword for MSMEs

While the FTA, finalized after 14 rounds of negotiations over three years, is expected to boost sectors like engineering and textiles, Indias MSMEs could find themselves on the losing end.

Indias decision to open up government procurement to British firms, while UK procurement remains largely closed, creates a deeply unequal playing field," said Ajay Srivastava, co-founder of the Global Trade Research Initiative. UK firms will gain preferential access to Indias vast public contracts, but Indian companies are unlikely to win much business in return."

According to Srivastava, less than 0.5% of EU procurement goes to non-EU suppliers, and even in the UK, foreign firms secure no more than 20 billion in contracts annually. Indian firms, especially MSMEs, are not equipped to navigate that market," he said.

Read this | India, EU discuss textile duty relief in exchange for whisky concessions under FTA

Beyond economics, this move weakens Indias strategic policy space to build domestic capacity in critical sectors like defence, clean energy, and health. It also threatens the survival of local MSMEs that depend on public contracts for growth and stability," he added.

Sectoral impacts: Winners and losers

Despite concerns, some sectors are poised to gain.

Engineering exports to the UK are projected to nearly double over the next five years, reaching around $7.55 billion by 2029-30, according to Pankaj Chadha, chairman of the Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC). The UK is currently Indias sixth-largest engineering export destination, with exports rising 11.7% to $4.01 billion in FY25.

Exports of chemicals and allied products increased from $1.29 billion in FY22 to $2.68 billion in FY25, while engineering goods exportsincluding auto components, industrial machinery, and transport equipmentrose from $3.04 billion to $4.01 billion over the same period.

In the textile sector, the FTA offers a chance to reclaim lost ground. After declining to $1.97 billion in FY24, textile exports to the UK rebounded to $2.12 billion in FY25, driven by strong demand for mid- to high-end garments.

The UK imports about $19 billion worth of apparel annually, with India accounting for just 5-5.5% of that market, well behind China and Bangladesh.

Sudhir Sekhri, chairman of the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC), noted that UK buyers, particularly those sourcing mid-to high-end garments, are already responding positively to the pricing advantage.

In the gems and jewellery sector, the tariff elimination could double exports within a year, according to Vipul Shah, former chairman of the Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council. Exports to the UK, which reached $941 million in FY24, are poised to surge as duties of up to 4% are slashed to zero.

Indias agricultural exporters are also eyeing substantial gains.

Under the FTA, several agricultural and processed food products will see duties reduced to zero. For animal products, which are currently subject to duties of up to 20%, 99.3% of tariff lines will be exempt from duties.

Similarly, vegetable and oil products, which also face duties of up to 20%, will benefit from 99.8% of tariff lines being reduced to zero duty. Processed food products, which can face duties as high as 70%, will see 99.7% of tariff lines brought down to zero duty. This reduction is expected to significantly enhance Indias export competitiveness in these sectors.

The UK markets appetite for Indian stapleslike rice, spices, seafood, and processed foodshas already driven agricultural exports from $571.16 million in FY22 to $784.57 million in FY25.

Read this | New template for trade deals: Govt to focus on tariffs, non-tariff barriers to clinch early agreements

Binod Anand, a member of the governments MSP Committee of Agriculture, emphasized the FTAs potential to boost farmer incomes, particularly if cooperatives are mobilized to capitalize on the duty-free access.

Logistics: A costly push for speed

The agreement also has implications for the logistics sector.

For logistics providers, the FTA offers more than tariff reliefit removes bottlenecks, improving the speed and efficiency of high-value cargo shipments, including electronics and fuels. Looking ahead, it lays the groundwork for collaboration with UK logistics innovators to integrate advanced technologies like AI-driven supply chains and automation into multimodal operations," said Jitendra Srivastava, CEO of Triton Logistics & Maritime.

The trade agreement is expected to push bilateral trade to $120 billion by 2030, marking a significant step in Indias post-Brexit engagement with the UK. But with UK firms set to benefit more than their Indian counterparts in public contracts, the FTAs true value for Indias exporters remains to be seen.

Also read | India could learn much from the complaints of its trade partners

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, meanwhile, has dismissed criticisms of the deal, describing concerns over tax exemptions as "incoherent nonsense" and insisting that the deal is in Britain's economic interest. Trade deals with 50 other countries have similar clauses," Starmer argued, referring to concerns over tax exemptions.
New Delhi: The Centre is weighing whether to appoint a private sector executive or a senior government official to lead the National Manufacturing Mission (NMM) , a programme aimed at reviving Indias stalling manufacturing growth.

One of the key conversations underway between the government policy think tank Niti Aayog and industry leaders is over the ideal profile of the NMMs chiefwhether the mission would benefit more from bureaucratic experience or private-sector execution capability, two people aware of the matter said.

Announced in the Union budget for FY26, the mission is part of a broader push to reposition manufacturing and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as twin engines of the economic growth. The mission aims to not just boost industrial output but also reduce import dependence, support green manufacturing, and improve ease of doing business for small and mid-sized firms.

Also read: Micro, small businesses shy away from state-run delayed payment resolution

The finance minister Nirmala Sitharamans announcement did not detail the implementation roadmap or total outlay for the mission, both of which are currently being worked out.

Another issue under discussion is the missions governance structurespecifically, whether it will include regulatory oversight to track the progress of participating firms.

Given the scale and complexity of transforming India into a global manufacturing hub, the question of who leads the mission is not just proceduralit is strategic," said Vinod Kumar, president, India SME Forum, an MSME industry association.

Kumar added that effective leadership would be key to aligning ministries, encouraging industry participation and resolving policy and infrastructure bottlenecks in real time.

In her budget speech, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman had said manufacturing and MSMEs would be central to Indias growth strategy in the coming years. The NMM is expected to provide targeted policy support and create execution roadmaps for small, medium and large manufacturing firms across priority sectors.

Also read: Small businesses, startups adopting mediation in contracts: law minister Meghwal

The push comes at a time when Indias manufacturing share of GDP has stagnated at 15-17% for years, despite initiatives such as the Make in India programme and production-linked incentive schemes.

The goal of the Make in India initiative was to raise the share of manufacturing in the country's economic output to 25% by 2022, a target that has remained unmet," a December 2024 report by KMPG said.

Manufacturing contributed to 14% of the nominal gross value added in FY25, as per a statistics ministry statement on 28 February.

The mission will also prioritize green manufacturing, with incentives aimed at expanding domestic production of solar PV cells, electric vehicle batteries, wind turbines, electrolyzers, grid-scale batteries and high-voltage transmission equipment.

One of the missions major components is supporting MSMEs, which account for about 30% of Indias manufacturing output. There are over 60 million MSMEs registered on the governments Udyam portal, of which around 13 million are in manufacturing as of 6 May.

MSMEs have long been a focus for the government, especially since the pandemic-induced slowdown in 2020. They also remain a large employment generator, with government estimates suggesting the sector supports over 200 million jobs.

A Niti Aayog report earlier this week highlighted that India's MSMEs lack technological prowess and struggle with quality control for the products they make. They are also heavily dependent on credit and the lack of formal sources of credit has an adverse impact on their growth, the report published on 2 May said.

Only 19% of MSME credit demand was met formally by FY21, leaving an estimated 80 lakh crore unmet," the report stated.

Kumar also emphasized the need to ease regulatory burdens for MSMEs working in critical sectors such as energy, aviation, mobility and healthcare.

Also read: Small firms fear new MSME definitions favour giants, cry foul

To address both competitiveness and sustainability, the government is also developing a green MSME" scheme, aimed at helping small manufacturers decarbonize through targeted incentives, Mint reported on 6 January this year.

Policy urgency around NMM has also been shaped by global trends, including tariff wars and shifting supply chains, as countries double down on domestic capacity to reduce import dependence. India, too, is trying to reposition itself as a global alternative to China in key sectors.
Chinas central bank said Wednesday that it would cut interest rates and inject more liquidity into the financial system, seeking to bolster the economy in response to trade tensions with Washington.

The Chinese central bank said it would lower the reserve requirement ratiowhich determines how much banks have to hold in reservesby 0.5 percentage point on May 15.

The cut will release around one trillion yuan, equivalent to $139 billion, of liquidity into the financial system and allow banks to lend more. The central bank previously lowered the ratio in September 2024.

The central bank cut a key policy rate by 0.1 percentage point.

Hong Kongs Hang Seng Index rose more than 1.5% after the announcement and mainland Chinese shares were higher.

Markets were also reacting to the possibility of formal U.S.-China trade talks. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer are traveling to Switzerland on Thursday to meet Beijings lead economic representative.

The economic measures announced in Beijing Wednesday mark the first concrete ones since President Trumps tariffs hit Chinese goods in April. Beijing pledged to implement growth-supporting measures late last month to counter the challenge from the tariffs.

The Chinese economy hasnt felt the full tariff blow yet. It expanded 5.4% in the first quarter, getting a boost from a rush of exports headed to the United States. Exports in March surged 12.4% year-over-year.

But the pain is beginning to show. The number of ships sailing from China to the U.S. is plunging after American importers canceled orders. Chinese factories are putting workers on leave, and a gauge of new export orders fell in April to its lowest since 2022.

Chinese officials have expressed confidence that the country will achieve its 5% growth target this year, but economists are expecting growth to slow to 4% or less. So far, the governments measures to boost the domestic economy have been relatively limited, economists said.

Write to Rebecca Feng at rebecca.feng@wsj.com
Last month Jensen Huang, the boss of Nvidia, landed in Beijing with a clear message: the maker of the worlds leading artificial-intelligence (AI) chips planned to unswervingly serve the Chinese market". America would rather it didnt. A few days earlier the Trump administration had introduced new controls that, in effect, banned the company from selling its H20 microprocessor to China.

Over the past few years America has sought to hobble its main rival in the AI race by controlling access to its advanced semiconductors. The performance of an AI processor depends mostly on two factors: computing power (how fast a chip processes data) and memory bandwidth (how quickly it moves data between processor and memory). In October 2022 the Biden administration barred sales to China of American chips that exceed a threshold on both fronts. Nvidia responded with the H800, a made-for-China model engineered to stay just under the limits. A year later, America tightened the regulations again, banning any chip with too much computing power, regardless of memory bandwidth. Nvidias answer was the H20.

The trouble for America is that restricted Nvidia chips continue to make their way into the hands of Chinese AI developers. A shadowy supply chain has emerged, designed to work around sanctions. Some customers lease access to offshore data centres; others buy chips through murky intermediaries. A new round of restrictions, due to come into effect on May 15th, aims to tighten the net further still. The new rules target not just hardware, but also the cloud providers offering access to it. Yet they will probably fail, too.

To see why it is so difficult to restrict access to AI chips, consider Johor, a part of southern Malaysia once better known for its palm-oil plantations. Located just across the border from Singapore, the region has become a hub for data centres. Land and electricity are cheap, and permits easier to obtain than in the city-state. All the big American cloud providersAmazon, Google, Microsoft and Oraclehave set up shop. According to Knight Frank, a property consultancy, Johors total data-centre capacity (built, under construction or planned) grew from 10 megawatts in early 2021 to more than 1,500 megawatts by 2024.

Johor also provides a convenient back door into China. Big Chinese firms such as ByteDance, the owner of TikTok, have rented capacity there.Leasing cloud capacity in Malaysia allows companies like it to gain access to chips that cannot be imported into China. SemiAnalysis, a consultancy, estimates that nearly half of Johors projected data-centre capacity in 2027 will incorporate AI processors such as Nvidias. Malaysian data-centre operators insist they comply with American export regulations and do not provide capacity to blacklisted entities. Yet workarounds are straightforward. A lawyer advising firms in the region says it is relatively easy for Chinese companies to get hold of restricted AI chips by setting up local subsidiaries.

View Full Image Chart: The Economist

Figures on trade flows support this. Nvidias high-end chips are produced by TSMC, the worlds biggest chipmaker, in its Taiwanese factories. In the first quarter of this year Taiwan exported $3.6bn-worth of graphics-processing unitsthe kind used to train AI modelsto Malaysia, nearly matching the total for all of 2024 (see chart 1). In March alone shipments more than tripled from the previous month to reach almost $2bn.

Then there are the smugglers who traffic chips directly into China. These are typically diverted through third countries not covered by American restrictions. A source familiar with the practice says goods often pass through several jurisdictions and front companies to obscure their origin. Export papers are doctored; restricted products are mislabelled to slip past customs. Erich Grunewald of the Institute for AI Policy and Strategy, a think-tank based in San Francisco, estimates that last year smuggled American chips made up between one-tenth and one-half of Chinas ai-model-training capacity.

Before the first round of export controls in 2022, China accounted for about 22% of Nvidias revenue (see chart 2). That share has since fallen to 13%. At the same time, sales to Singaporea city with few end-usershave more than doubled, and now make up nearly 18% of the total, making it Nvidias second-largest market after America. The company says the shift is routine: many clients invoice through Singapore but ship to permitted destinations. Fewer than 2% of chips sold there are delivered locally.

View Full Image Chart: The Economist

In February, however, Singaporean police arrested three men over the sale of $390m-worth of servers that incorporated Nvidia chips. Prosecutors allege these were first sent to Singaporean firms, then re-exported to Malaysia. Whether that was their final stop remains unknown. What is clearer is the incentive: demand has turned the grey market into a gold mine. According to one industry executive, banned Nvidia chips now sell at a 30-50% markup through intermediaries.

China is not the only destination. In October America placed several Indian companies under sanctions for re-exporting restricted chips to Russia. Among them was Shreya Life Sciences, a pharmaceutical firm based in Mumbai. According to figures from The Trade Vision, a data provider, the company exported $322m-worth of tech goods to Russia in 2024, much of it Dell servers containing Nvidia chips.

All this puts Nvidia in a difficult position. The company insists it complies with American export rules. But its operations are vast: it expects to sell more than 6m AI chips this year and it sits several steps removed from the end user. Nvidia supplies processors to cloud giants such as Google and Microsoft, and to equipment-makers like Dell and Supermicro, which integrate them into servers. From there, responsibility for compliance is diffuse. Cloud providers and hardware firms are expected to vet their customers. Nvidia itself conducts periodic audits. But oversight is uneven, and servers often change hands quietly after passing initial checks. One executive at a server manufacturer says properly verifying all end users is practically impossible".

Americas government has responded by introducing ever tighter regulations. In January the Biden administration unveiled its AI Diffusion Framework", which splits the world into three tiers: 18 trusted countries including Britain and Japan face no restrictions; a second tier of 120 countries including Singapore and India are subject to quotas; and a final tier including China and Russia are barred outright. The rules also prohibit American cloud providers from offering services powered by restricted chips to Chinese customers. The Trump administration is reportedly planning to tinker with the regulations before they come into effectperhaps tying access to chips into wider trade negotiationsbut it is yet to announce any changes.

The chip has sailed

Any new controls will encounter familiar problems. The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), the agency tasked with enforcing tech export controls, is severely understaffed. Mr Grunewald notes that it has just one export-control officer responsible for all of South-East Asia and Australasiaa region central to the shadow trade in AI chips.

Some pundits have proposed technical solutions, such as disabling chips used in prohibited locations. Nvidia argues that such hardware-level controls would introduce dangerous vulnerabilities and are unworkable. Instead, it suggests that software-based tools could transmit limited telemetryincluding information on location and system configurationback to the company to confirm that the chips are where they are supposed to be.

Even better enforcement has its limits, however. Nvidia cannot trace every chip. BIS cannot inspect every server. Smugglers will continue to find loopholes. If America wants to keep ahead of China in the AI race, it will need to innovate faster, rather than clamp down harder.
Foreign-policy wonks snapped to attention when Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said those words in a speech last month.

The phrase was last heard in the early years of Trumps first term. It served to bridge two camps inside his team: economic nationalists disdainful of traditional allies, and internationalists who wanted those allies help containing China and Russia.

His second term has started out with the economic nationalists ascendant as Trump has piled tariffs on allies and China alike, while sparing Russia.

But Bessents remarks are one of several hints that internationalism isnt dead. One came Tuesday when Trump, in a mostly cordial meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, played down talk of making Canada the 51st state. Both leaders spoke of renegotiating the U.S.-Mexico Canada Agreement.

Trump has lately cooled on Russia and warmed toward Ukraine. The minerals-investment deal the U.S. and Ukraine finally signed last week is a tacit security guarantee, because of the economic partnership," Bessent said Monday at a Milken Institute conference. Its not one of these rapacious Chinese deals."

Most intriguing is the possibility that Trump, rather than destroying the world trading system, remakes it into one that unites the West against China.

Bessent hinted at that a month ago when Trump paused tariffs on most countries but increased them on China. We can probably reach a deal with our allies. And then we can approach China as a group," he said.

The administration has since avoided talk of isolating China in hopes of bringing it to the bargaining table. Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will meet Chinas top economic official, Vice Premier He Lifeng, in Switzerland this weekend, their agencies said Tuesday. The world has been coming to the U.S., and China has been the missing piece," Bessent said Tuesday on Fox News. We dont want to decouple."

Bessent has portrayed China as uniquely problematic for not just the U.S. but the world. In his April speech, he affirmed U.S. support for the International Monetary Fund and World Bank, pillars of the international economic system, while singling out China for destabilizing that system with its trade surpluses. The country knows it needs to change," he said.

Why a new trading system makes sense

Even America Firsters know China is in a category of its own. It has used subsidies, forced technology transfer and a host of other interventions to support national champions and discriminate against foreign companies. It seeks to dominate frontier technologies from artificial intelligence to quantum computing. It runs the worlds biggest trade surpluses.

The U.S. was alone in these concerns during Trumps first term, but now many allies share them. The European Union calls China a systemic rival." The EU economic security agendais very much shared with and aligned with the U.S.," Spanish Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo said in an interview.

As Chinas domestic demand has wilted recently, its flood of cheap manufactured exports has grown. Other countries are already responding with tariffs, and such measures could grow as U.S. tariffs divert Chinese exports.

Just as other countries need U.S. help against China, the reverse is also true. Rush Doshi and Kurt Campbell, who were advisers to President Joe Biden, recently noted that China now accounts for 30% of the worlds manufacturing, double the U.S. share, giving it unmatched scale to dominate strategic industries from semiconductors to shipbuilding. But the U.S. plus allies such as the EU, South Korea, Japan, Canada and Mexico would have half of global manufacturing, they noted.

This means that Washington needs its allies and partners in ways that it did not in the past. They are not tripwires, distant protectorates, vassals, or markers of status, but providers of capacity needed to achieve great-power scale," they recently wrote in Foreign Affairs.

In an interview, Doshi said the U.S. and key allies could erect a shared wall" to create a protected market with the necessary scale in such sectors as robotics, unmanned systems, machine tools, ships and biotech. The Trump administration doesnt need deals with 75 countries. Just 10 of them to start. Thats where the mass is with respect to manufacturing, markets, and technology."

View Full Image Donald Trump made a campaign stop in 2015 at the Port of Los Angeles. Photo: Lucy Nicholson/Reuters

The hurdles start with Trump

Standing in the way of this new trading system is Trump himself. He simply doesnt make much distinction between China and allies: Theyre all ripping us off." When Mexico, seeking to end Trumps 25% tariff, offered to match U.S. tariffs on China, it was rebuffed, The Wall Street Journal has reported. On Tuesday, Trump said nothing Carney could offer would lift the tariffs on Canada.

An anti-China alliance is popular among the superhawks" in Trumps orbit such as the first terms Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, but not Trump himself, said Michael Pillsbury, an expert on Trumps China policy. Ive never heard Trump lay out a plan for the containment of China."

Trumps willingness to hit friendly nations with tariffs, cozy up to Russia and threaten allies like Denmark and Canada has deeply undermined allies trust.

With the U.S. closing its market, others are more reluctant than ever to push China away. Spain, for example, is wooing Chinese auto investment. Its important to remain engaged with China," said Spains Cuerpo. Chinese officials have warned of countermeasures against any country that makes a deal with the U.S. at its expense.

We could easily have organized the world [to take] on China, and Donald Trump gave China a get out of jail card and put us behind bars," said Rahm Emanuel, who was U.S. ambassador to Japan under Biden. Theres no chance some people are going to line up with us now."

Nonetheless, current negotiations will likely result in two tracks: high tariffs on China, and a mix of lower tariffs and bespoke deals with others.

The question, said Doshi, is whether the Trump team pursues the goal of pooling allied scale and building a moat around Chinese excess capacity, or do they do smaller deals without this larger vision that simply address bilateral issues only?"

The odds of this more ambitious outcome arent great," he acknowledged. But perhaps the president can be persuaded, and if he can be, its achievable."

Write to Greg Ip at greg.ip@wsj.com
Greenland has significant deposits of rare-earth minerals as well as untapped oil and natural-gas reserves.

The U.S. is stepping up its intelligence-gathering efforts regarding Greenland, drawing Americas spying apparatus into President Trumps campaign to take over the island, according to two people familiar with the effort.

Several high-ranking officials under Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard issued a collection emphasis message" to intelligence-agency heads last week. They were directed to learn more about Greenlands independence movement and attitudes on American resource extraction on the island.

The classified message asked agencies, whose tools include surveillance satellites, communications intercepts and spies on the ground, to identify people in Greenland and Denmark who support U.S. objectives for the island.

The directive is one of the first concrete steps Trumps administration has taken toward fulfilling the presidents often-stated desire to acquire Greenland.

A collection-emphasis message helps set intelligence-agency priorities, directing resources and attention to high-interest targets. The Greenland order, which went to agencies including the Central Intelligence Agency, the Defense Intelligence Agency and the National Security Agency, underscores the administrations apparent commitment to seek control of the self-governing island. It forms part of the Kingdom of Denmark, a North Atlantic Treaty Organization member and a decadeslong ally.

James Hewitt, a National Security Council spokesman, said the White House doesnt comment on intelligence matters, but added, The president has been very clear that the U.S. is concerned about the security of Greenland and the Arctic."

In a statement, Gabbard said: The Wall Street Journal should be ashamed of aiding deep state actors who seek to undermine the President by politicizing and leaking classified information. They are breaking the law and undermining our nations security and democracy."

The Danish Embassy in Washington declined to comment, and the prime minister of Greenland didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Arctic island of some 56,000 people hasnt historically been a key target for U.S. intelligence collection, according to a former American intelligence official and a former senior intelligence officer focused on Europe.

Intelligence collection resources are inherently limited," the former intelligence official said, meaning they have typically been pointed toward perceived threats, not allied countries."

Since his first term, Trump has emphasized his determination to purchase, annex or conquer Greenlands 836,000 square miles of territoryto the consternation of Denmark and many Greenlanders.

We need Greenland for national security and even international security, and were working with everybody involved to try and get it," Trump said in a joint address to Congress in March. One way or the other, were going to get it."

Vice President JD Vance, then-National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Energy Secretary Chris Wright traveled to Greenland in late March, sparking outrage from Danish leaders and Greenlandic residents.

The visit puts completely unacceptable pressure on Greenland, Greenlandic politicians and the Greenlandic population," as well as on Denmark, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen told Danish television in advance of the delegation.

President Trump is serious," she said. He wants Greenland."

Asked by NBC News in an interview that aired Sunday whether he would rule out seizing Greenland by force, Trump demurred.

I dont rule it out," he said. I dont say Im going to do it, but I dont rule out anything. No, not there. We need Greenland very badly. Greenland is a very small amount of people, which well take care of, and well cherish them, and all of that. But we need that for international security."

The island is home to substantial deposits of rare-earth minerals necessary for the production of everything from electric vehicles to wind turbines, as well as untapped oil and natural-gas reserves. Mining those underground assets has proven logistically difficult.

Write to Katherine Long at katherine.long@wsj.com and Alexander Ward at alex.ward@wsj.com
Consultants who advise companies on pay structures expect this year's salary hikes to be less than what they estimated as recently as March, multiple people aware of the matter said.

While Deloitte had estimated an average pay hike of 8.8%, Aon had predicted 9.2%. However, actual pay hikes may be even lower in some sectors, executives at these firms said on the condition of anonymity. Revisions are likely particularly in businesses feeling the strain of geopolitical crises, tariff disputes, and cautious client decision-making.

In a client note in March, Deloitte had said that the actual pay hikes in FY25 were 9%, against 9.2% it estimated earlier. The consultant said that even though the change was minor, it showed that companies were more bullish about increases than they were eventually able to afford. "For the coming financial year, the data reflects further caution as the aggregate pay increase projection across sectors is expected to be approximately 8.8%," said the note, seen by Mint.

Anandorup Ghose, a partner at Deloitte India, agreed hikes may be even lower than 8.8% in some sectors, attributing it to multiple global uncertainties.

Also read | Last year's pay hikes were bad enough. Don't ask about this year's.

"This year, a lot of externalities are evolving for companies across sectors  there are geopolitical tensions that cannot be fully accounted for, there are macroeconomic concerns based on tariff agreements as well as aspects such as uncertainties in domestic consumer demand resurgence etc.," Ghose told Mint.

He said the impact will be widespread: "Given the width of these shifts, it is difficult to identify any one set of industries that will get affected  most will have some implications one way or another."

Consultant Aons Annual Salary Increase and Turnover Survey 2024-25 India in March had projected a 9.2% increase this year, against last year's estimate of 9.5%. The actual average hike in 2024, according to Aon, was around 9.3%.

"Most companies continue to adopt a cautious approach while rolling out hikes. The impact of the tariffsif they were to come throughis likely to be felt only from the next cycle and over a period of time for some select sectors such as banking and possibly IT-enabled services," said Roopank Chaudhary, a partner at Aon specializing in human capital solutions. Chaudhary too agreed the actual pay hikes in some sectors may be below their estimates.

According to Aon's survey, the banking sector is expected to offer around 8.8% this year, and the IT-enabled services sector was pegged to give a hike of 9.7%.

Read this | Tech's Big Five cautious on salary hikes, hiring

However, Aon sought to temper concerns about drastic cuts, stating it was "not seeing any immediate downward projection on salary hikes," Chaudhary told Mint. Nevertheless, the firm indicated that certain sectors are more vulnerable to the current headwinds.

In the technology sector, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has already postponed wage increases, citing the "uncertainty in the environment." Chief human resources officer Milind Lakkad told analysts in a post-earnings call that the company will wait for clarity to emerge before deciding on wage hikes.

Companies with appraisals held across May and July are particularly likely to revise their initial hike plans, according to consultants and HR executives.

"We offered a 7-9% increment, whereas last year it was 9-10%. But we know that some of our competitors have revised their hikes given the slump in the job market and poor visibility in the business," a senior executive at a major BFSI firm said on the condition of anonymity.

Several factors are prompting the rethink. A sluggish job market, coupled with instances of over-hiring in recent years, has led some to curb aggressive recruitment. Additionally, companies with significant exposure to the US market are increasingly wary of potential policy changes.

Also read | Why Cognizants salary hike announcement is a cause for concern

US President Donald Trumps sweeping tariff proposals and a 90-day trade pause have injected significant volatility into global trade and financial markets. Steep American levies on China have raised concerns about a flood of inexpensive exports into other markets, impacting industries from steel and textiles to fisheries and raising fears of prolonged disruption. These uncertainties compound existing global challenges, including Russias ongoing invasion of Ukraine and the war in West Asia.

Some companies are exploring alternative compensation models.

"Our hikes are around 10% similar to 2024, but we will bring in variable pay in the junior and middle orders. This was not there earlier, but companies need to be prudent, and this way, work becomes more performance-linked in these choppy markets," said the HR head of a prominent energy firm. Variable pay, typically comprising around 30% of an employee's total cost to the company, ties a portion of compensation to performance metrics.

For Indian employees, the current job market increasingly favours those with specialized skills, potentially limiting immediate job mobility and giving companies more leeway to adjust their compensation plans.

And read | Big paydays for top talent in tech, consumer, lifesciences even as overall salary hikes moderate
New Delhi: Indias landmark free trade agreement with the UK has come at an opportune time for domestic manufacturers of solar modules and wind turbines, potentially opening the doors wider for them to diversify their exports beyond the US.

Indian manufacturers of renewable energy products are looking to export more solar modules and other green energy equipment as they seek to establish their presence in a global market dominated by Chinese companies.

While a large chunk of Indias $2 billion annual solar module exports goes to the US, shifting trade policies under US President Donald Trump and evolving global demand dynamics have made it imperative for Indian renewable energy companies to explore new markets.

The India-UK FTA that concluded on 6 May promises to unlock major economic gains for India by eliminating tariffs on 99% of Indian exports, covering nearly 100% of the trade value, as the two countries aim to double bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030.

This is very positive news for Indian renewable component manufacturers opening a new potential market for us. However, any major gains are contingent on the UK imposing tariff or non-tariff barriers on other countries, the way US has done," said Vinay Rustagi, senior director, Premier Energies, a solar components manufacturer.

Moreover, we expect this FTA to work as a template for agreements with other major markets including the EU and the US. Inclusion of similar provisions allowing duty-free Indian green energy components would be very beneficial for India," he added.

That apart, the UK could emerge as a major market for Indian renewable energy component makers as Britain aims to achieve net zero carbon emission by 2050.

Currently, nearly 80% of the UKs energy comes from fossil fuel sources, mainly natural gas and oil. But over the past two decades, the countrys share of low-carbon electricity combined with biofuels for heating purposes has increased from 10% to 23%.

The (UKs) clean energy industry will have brand new, unprecedented access to Indias vast procurement market as the country makes the switch to renewable energy and continues to see growing energy demand," the British government said in a statement on Tuesday.

Also read | Why the India-UK FTA has spooked medical device manufacturers. Hint: China

India's renewable ambitions

Indias solar module manufacturing capacity is expected to reach 125 GW by the end of this decade from 60 GW now. Waaree Energies Ltd, Adani Solar, Tata Power Solar Systems Ltd, and Vikram Solar are among major Indian exporters of green energy modules.

India is also a net exporter of wind turbines.

The countrys current wind turbine and associated component manufacturing capacity is around 18 GW. To meet growing domestic as well as export demand, the government is looking to increase Indias wind power capacity to 100 GW by 2030.

In 2023-24, India exported turbines and related components worth $205 million. Some of the key turbine exporters from India are Vestas Wind Technology India Pvt. Ltd, Senvion India Pvt. Ltd, and Inox Wind Ltd.

In April, the ministry of new and renewable energy issued a draft amendment to the procedure for including wind turbines in the revised list of models and manufacturers. In line with the approved list of models and manufacturers for solar modules, the proposed amendment aims to strengthen Indias wind turbine manufacturing ecosystem by introducing non-tariff barriers that limit imports.

Waaree shares climbed 1.9% to 2,632.00 apiece on Wednesday, while Inox Wind rose 2.225% to 168.50 per share.

Also read | India-UK FTA: Can exporters seize the opportunity amid tough competition?
New Delhi: The Centres move to consider stopping doorstep delivery of medicines has stirred up a hornets nest, with an association of chemists and druggists strongly supporting the move, and e-pharmacy and e-commerce platforms opposing it. Meanwhile, doctors have jumped into the debate, advocating for continuing doorstep delivery, but with adequate checks and balances.

At a meeting on 24 April, the drugs technical advisory board (DTAB), Indias top expert panel on drugs, had recommended that a sub-committee be set up to examine the possible withdrawal of a March 2020, pandemic-era notification that legally permitted such deliveries, according to the minutes of the meeting that Mint has reviewed, and according to three government officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

Also Read | Pharmacy colleges being rated after teaching scandal

The Centres move followed a representation by the All India Organization of Chemists and Druggists (AICOD), which opposed home delivery of medicines on the back of misuse of prescriptions. The move has the potential to disrupt the businesses of e-pharmacies such as Tata 1mg, Amazon, Flipkart, NetMeds, MediBuddy, Practo, and Apollo Pharmacy, even quick commerce apps such as Swiggy that deliver medicines home.

While spokespersons for these companies declined to comment, the founder of a leading online pharmacy business told Mint on condition of anonymity that the government should first take a survey of consumers on doorstep delivery of medicines.

Also Read | US generics, domestic market to drive healthy growth for pharma companies in Q4

Even at the local chemists shops, approximately 20% of the medicines are sold walk-in and 80% is home delivery business," this executive said. If there is a problem in the online drug delivery practice, then the government should fix the loopholes, make the system more secure and transparent," this person added.

The withdrawal of the 2020 notification could lead to more government regulation but it is unlikely there will be a ban on e-pharmacies," said an executive at an e-commerce platform that delivers medicines, requesting anonymity, adding that many patients, especially elderly ones, use WhatsApp to send the prescription to their local pharmacy and make the payment via UPI after the delivery.

Also Read | India seeks details of pharma exports to Pakistan ahead of likely total ban

The executive emphasised that such a ban would set even the offline pharmacy lobby back because of changed customer behaviour and use of digitised systems and databases.

The AICOD, on its part, said the notification has resulted in medicines being delivered without validated prescriptions. Such unchecked practice of distributing medicines poses a significant threat to patient health," said AICOD general secretary Rajiv Singhal. Who is going to check how many times your prescription is being circulated on social media channels like WhatsApp? Even controlled medicines are being delivered to the patients."

About 95% of the delivery of medicine is done by online pharmacy firms. As per Drugs Rule, 1945, medicine is a commodity which should be delivered in the presence of the pharmacists," Singhal said.

Meanwhile, medical practitioners said there is no harm in supplying medicines as long as strong checks and balances are built in.

I am not sure of the logic behind the proposal for withdrawal of the notification," said Dr Soumya Swaminathan, former chief scientist at the World Health Organization (WHO). Convenience for the patient is important. Theres no denying that people nowadays have multiple chronic diseases and home delivery is certainly a boon, especially for the elderly and disabled. But, at the same time, we have to make sure the system is not being abused."

The Centres move

The DTAB panel has recommended to set up a sub-committee on this matter, which will submit its report shortly for final decision," the first official cited above said.

Withdrawal of the March 2020 notification is being explored due to the reason that drugs which are prohibited are being delivered," said the second official cited above. A third official added that the notification should be withdrawn due to concerns related to unregulated practice of sale of medicines.

The development assumes significance for Indias domestic pharmaceuticals market, which amounts to $23.5-billion, according to the department of pharmaceuticals. The business of e-pharmacies add up to around $4.5 billion, according to data from Invest India.

The doctors point

Swaminathan said it is important to keep a check on the class of drugs and volume being delivered. In the US, the doctor emails or phones in their prescription to the pharmacists, and they deliver the medicine or the patient can pick it up. But there is a record of every sale and purchase. However, this is not the case in India."

She added that India has an opportunity to create such checks now because the country is very well connected digitally.

This will also improve our prescription records, which we can then analyze," she said. So, digital systems are a good way to do that because traceability is possible. Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) can be leveraged for this. We must also do away with the over-the-counter sale of regulated medicines and misuse of antibiotics. We have the regulations and rules already in place, but we need to find good ways of implementing them."

Dr Mohsin Wali, senior consultant in the department of medicine at New Delhis Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, said that home delivery is a useful service for a population the size of Indias, but chemists' associations have problems because they are losing business.

He also pointed to loopholes. The harm is that if there is a sleep medicine prescribed to a patient, s/he gets it from five different sources on the same day; there is no central monitoring registry to know that the patient has purchased 50 sleep drugs in one go and from whom," said Dr Wali.

He added that while there should be separate regulations for e-pharmacies so that procurement of harmful medicine is curtailed, stopping door-to-door delivery of medicine altogether may not work. If a patient is sick and cannot go to the local pharmacy store, then we can ask the pharmacy store to deliver the medicine," Wali said.

Ranjani Raghavan in Mumbai contributed to the story.
Kenrik Industries IPO allotment date: Kenrik Industries IPO share allotment will be finalised today (Wednesday, May 7). By visiting the registrar's website, Skyline Financial Services Private Ltd, investors who applied for the issue can verify the Kenrik Industries IPO allotment status.

Kenrik Industries IPO opened for subscription on April 29, and closed on May 6 . Kenrik Industries IPO subscription status on the last bidding day was 2 times, according to chittorgarh.com

Investors can determine their assigned shares by checking the allocation details. The IPO allotment status will indicate the number of shares granted. For those who were not allocated shares, the company will initiate the refund process. Allocated shares will appear in the demat accounts of those who received them.

For those who did not receive shares, the refund procedure will begin on Thursday, May 8. On the same day, those who have been allocated will get their shares in their demat accounts.

Kenrik Industries IPO listing date is scheduled for Friday, May 9.

How to check Kenrik Industries IPO allotment status on registrar's website? If you have applied for the Kenrik Industries IPO, you can check your Kenrik Industries IPO allotment status immediately on the website of the IPO registrar, Skyline Financial Services Private Ltd - https://www.skylinerta.com/ipo.php

Step 1 Visit Skyline Financial Services Private Ltd, the registrar for the Kenrik Industries IPO, by clicking the link above.

Step 2 Choose the IPO from the dropdown menu; the name will be available once allocations are complete.

Step 3 Select one of three options to check the status: Application No, Demat Account, or PAN.

You can verify the IPO allotment status using the following IDs.

Income Tax PAN (Permanent Account Number) - You can first check your application status using your registered Income Tax PAN number. After selecting PAN from the menu, input your 10-digit alphanumeric PAN and then click the "Submit" button.

Application number or CAF number - You may also check your allocation status by entering your application number or CAF number. After entering your application or CAF number, click "Search." This number can be found on the acknowledgment document provided after you completed the IPO application process. Make sure to enter it exactly as it appears on that document, then click the "Submit" button to view the information on the shares allotted to you in the IPO.

Beneficiary ID - Alternatively, you can use your demat account's beneficiary ID. Next, enter the client ID and depository participant (DP) ID as a single string. The CDSL string is numerical, while the NSDL string is alphanumeric. Please ensure that you enter the DP ID and client ID exactly as they appear. These details can be found in both your account statement and your online DP statement. After that, press the "Submit" button.

Step 4 The status of the IPO and the number of shares allotted to you in the Kenrik Industries IPO will be displayed on the screen.

Kenrik Industries IPO GMP today Kenrik Industries IPO GMP today or grey market premium was 0, which meant shares were trading at their issue price of 25 with no premium or discount in the grey market according to investorgain.com

'Grey market premium' indicates investors' readiness to pay more than the issue price.
On Tuesday, Nifty50 witnessed volatility and ended on a negative note, primarily due to profit booking at higher levels following its recent gains. The index opened flat but failed to sustain intraday recoveries amid weakness in major sectoral indices and profit booking in broader markets. Mixed global cues and investor caution ahead of upcoming economic data and Q4 earnings, further dampened the market sentiment. As a result, Nifty remained range-bound throughout the session.

Two stock recommendations by MarketSmith India

Buy: Hindustan Unilever Ltd. (current price:  2,381.8)

Why its recommended: Resilient business model with strong brand portfolio, strategic initiatives, and future outlook

Resilient business model with strong brand portfolio, strategic initiatives, and future outlook Key metrics: P/E: 52.82, 52-week high:  3,035.00, volume:  448.16 crore

P/E: 52.82, 52-week high: 3,035.00, volume: 448.16 crore Technical analysis: Bounced back from its 100-DMA

Bounced back from its 100-DMA Risk factors : Slower rural demand recovery, high valuation

: Slower rural demand recovery, high valuation Buy at :  2,381.8

: 2,381.8 Target price:  2,590 in three months

2,590 in three months Stop loss:  2,290

Buy: Fortis Healthcare Ltd (current price:  687)

Why its recommended: Strategic capacity expansion and robust financial performance

Strategic capacity expansion and robust financial performance Key metrics: P/E: 61.30, 52-week high:  743, volume:  113.46 crore

P/E: 61.30, 52-week high: 743, volume: 113.46 crore Technical analysis: Horizontal trendline breakout

Horizontal trendline breakout Risk factors: Dependence on key geographies

Dependence on key geographies Buy at:  687

687 Target price:  845 in three months

845 in three months Stop loss:  625

Also Read: Shareholding moves in Q4: Did retail investors' small-cap love fizzle out?

How Nifty 50 performed on Tuesday

On Tuesday, Nifty 50 opened on a subdued note and struggled to sustain above 24,500. The index quickly slipped below 24,450 within the first hour of trading and remained range-bound between 24,33024,400 throughout the session. Consequently, it ended its two-day winning streak, closing at 24,379 and forming a bearish candlestick on the daily chart. On the sectoral front, all major indices ended in the red, except Nifty Auto. Market breadth remained weak, with the advance-decline ratio sharply skewed at 1:6, indicating broad-based selling pressure.

From a technical standpoint, Nifty 50 remains above all key moving averages on the daily chart, reflecting continued strength in the broader trend. . The relative strength index (RSI) is moving sideways, signaling a pause in momentum, while the MACD is on the verge of a bearish crossover, hinting at potential weakness in the near term.

According to O'Neils methodology of market direction, Nifty50 transitioned from a "Rally Attempt" to a Confirmed Uptrend".

The index failed to sustain above 24,400, triggering mild profit booking and a close below this level. The price and momentum structure on the daily chart suggests ongoing consolidation within 24,00024,500. A breakout or breakdown from this zone is expected to determine the next directional move. If the index remains below 24,400, volatility may persist. Fresh bullish positions are advisable only above 24,450, while key support is placed between 24,00023,900.

Also Read: Five stocks that could deliver big over the next five years

How Nifty Bank performed

On Tuesday, Bank Nifty opened on a flat note but quickly came under selling pressure and remained in negative territory throughout the session. The index formed a bearish candlestick pattern with a lower-high and lower-low formation on the daily chart, reflecting signs of profit booking from higher levels after hitting its all-time high of 56,098.70 on April 23. During the session, Bank Nifty opened at 54,918.25, traded within a range of 55,036.95 (high) and 54,172.95 (low), and closed at 54,271.40, indicating cautious sentiment in this space.

From a technical perspective, it remains above its key moving averages, indicating underlying strength. However, recent consolidation suggests a loss of momentum and a potential short-term pause in the uptrend. The RSI declined to 58 from 67 over the past two sessions, signalling weakening buying strength. Moreover, the MACD has shown a negative crossover, reflecting early signs of fading bullish momentum and a cautious outlook in the near term.

According to O'Neils methodology of market direction, Nifty Bank transitioned from an "Uptrend Under Pressure" to a Confirmed Uptrend".

The index continues to trade in a sideways range, indicating ongoing consolidation at higher levels. Immediate support is seen near 53,500, which may help limit short-term downside. Looking ahead, the index is likely to remain range-bound between 53,50055,000 in the coming days, unless a decisive breakout or breakdown occurs to trigger directional momentum.

MarketSmith India is a stock research platform and advisory service focused on the Indian stock market. It offers tools and resources to help investors make informed decisions based on the CAN SLIM methodology, founded by legendary investor William J. O'Neil. You can access a 10-day free trial by registering on its website.

Trade name: William ONeil India Pvt. Ltd.

Sebi Registration No.: INH000015543

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 National Stock Exchange and BSE have barred access to their respective websites from all overseas locations to safeguard against cyber attacks effective Tuesday, two people said.

The development came a day before the Indian defence forces launched Operation Sindoor, raining a barrage of missiles on terror camps in mainland Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir a fortnight after terrorists killed more than two dozen tourists in Kashmirs Pahalgam area.

BSE being a critical market infrastructure institution (MII) proactively and continuously monitors risks at domestic and international level for potential cyber threats," a spokesperson for the stock exchange told Mint.

Based on such monitoring of cyber traffic, as a precautionary and protective measure, websites/locations are blocked to protect users and systems. The monitoring is dynamic and access is restored on a case-to-case basis subject to assessment of the threat," the spokesperson added.

An NSE spokesperson was not immediately available for comment.

Access to be website will continue to be barred outside India until further notice", said one of the people mentioned above.

NSE is Indias largest stock exchange with a 93.6% share in the equity cash segment. On the derivatives segment, in equity options, the market share based on premium turnover was 87.4% in 2024-25, per exchange data.

BSE, which is ratcheting up its share in the equity options space, accounted for the rest.

Also read | India resilient to economic fallout from escalating tensions with Pakistan

Markets unfazed

Indias benchmark indices avoided any knee-jerk reaction on Wednesday despite India's overnight attacks on Pakistani terror camps.

The Nifty 50 ended the day's trading session up 0.15% at 24,416.15 points, while the Sensex inched up similarly to 80,762 points. Fear gauge India Vix traded down 0.4% to 18.92.

The expiry on Thursday is expected at 100 points plus or minus from 24,400.

"Markets are not pricing in an escalation, for now, but if the conflict intensifies, there could be a negative reaction," said Nilesh Shah, managing director, Kotak Mahindra AMC.

Shah said most fund managers today don't have the experience of witnessing a full-fledged India-Pakistan conflict like in 1962 or 1971, but only of the 1999 Kargil war, when India evicted the enemy from its territory without crossing the line of control, or the international border between the two nations.

India's stock markets rose 38% between May and July 1999 despite the hostilities, recovering from a 15% correction in the January-March period of that year on concerns of a cross-border attack by India.
The equity markets shrugged off early nerves on Wednesday following Indias attack on Pakistani terror camps to end the days trading session with quiet gains.

Despite pre-open indications of a sharp 1% gap-down, the benchmark indices opened only slightly lower and swiftly clawed back losses. The Nifty 50 eked out a 0.1% gain, closing at 24,414.40 points, while the Sensex edged up 0.1% to settle at 80,746.78, reflecting the markets underlying resilience amid geopolitical headwinds.

But the India VIX, often called the markets fear gauge, spiked 4% intraday before settling just 0.3% highersignaling elevated volatility despite the lukewarm market reaction to the escalating India-Pakistan conflict.

We will still have volatility and downside from time to time as global economic developments play out," said Aashish Somaiyaa, chief executive of WhiteOak Capital AMC.

Considering the Nifty 50s 10% gain in the past month amid global trade uncertainty, Somaiyaa said the market may have priced in too much optimism already. The optimism may also stem from a stabilizing rupee, easing bond yields, and a handful of strong earnings from large-cap companies, he said.

The broader market stole the spotlight on Wednesday, with the Nifty Midcap 100 surging 1.6% and the Nifty Smallcap 250 gaining 1.2%, comfortably outperforming the headline indices.

Pakistans benchmark KSE-100 index nosedived as much as 6% intraday on Wednesday before clawing back some of the losses to close 3% lower.

India launched Operation Sindoor early Wednesday targeting Pakistani terror sites, including some linked to the attack on tourists in Kashmirs Pahalgam area two weeks ago that killed 26 people.

The key question is whether this turns into a full-fledged conflict or remains a limited defence strike," said Kranthi Bathini, director of equity strategy at WealthMills Securities, adding that a wider escalation could dent investor sentiment while a contained response may barely leave a mark on the markets.

The geopolitical risk that was hanging over the Indian markets has crystallized today with the Indian strikes on POK and Pakistan-based terror camps," market expert Ajay Bagga said, adding that the impact of such events on the markets tends to be sharp but short-lived. The future impact on the market will depend on whether this strike remains contained to today or if it expands."

Kotak Mutual Fund said in a note on Wednesday that the Indian government's action suggested there was low possibility of a war breaking out. But while market direction is hard to predict, past India-Pakistan conflicts have caused only temporary dips, with history showing that geopolitical shocks rarely derail Indias long-term growth, Kotak Mutual fund added.

Also read | India resilient to economic fallout from escalating tensions with Pakistan

Resilient during conflicts

Although the market is bracing for the fallout of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, data from the past two decades indicate Indias equity markets typically rebound swiftly, often showing little lasting impact from such events in the long run.

India has seen four major wars since 1950. During the Kargil war in 1999, the previous major conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, India's equity markets remained robust after an initial panic, Kotak Mutual Fund said.

On 26 February 2019, when the Indian Air Force struck terror camps in Balakot, the Sensex fell 239 points and the Nifty 50 shed 44 points. But the markets bounced back the very next day, with the Sensex opening 165 points higher and closing flat.

The Pulwama terror attack on 15 February 2019 that had triggered the Balakot strikes had a muted impact on the markets, with the benchmark indices edging down just 0.2% that day.

In contrast, Indias 2016 surgical strikes on Pakistani terror camps after the Uri attack had rattled investors, dragging the Sensex down by over 400 points and the Nifty 50 by 156 in a single session.

Also read | BSE, NSE cut website access outside India ahead of Operation Sindoor

Indias economic resilience

Aniruddha Sarkar, chief investment officer and portfolio manager at Quest Investment Advisors, said that despite geopolitical tensions the past two weeks following the Pahalgam terror attack, foreign inflows have continued, reflecting confidence in Indias economic resilience.

Moodys said in a recent report titled SovereignSouth Asia that Indias economic fundamentals remained solid, underpinned by robust public investment and resilient private consumption.

With FII (foreign institutional investors) flows continuing to be strong on the back of trade deals with the US in advanced stages and with India-UK FTA (free trade agreement) already signed, I see Indian rupee remaining strong in the near term," said Sarkar.

Beyond the war rhetoric, investors should stay focused on corporate earnings trajectories, which ultimately determine stock prices," he said, adding that recent market corrections, coupled with encouraging quarterly results, presented attractive investment opportunities.

With foreign investors recently turning net buyers, Bathini of WealthMills Securities said the trajectory of the rupee would depend on how the India-Pakistan tension evolves.

The rupee weakened the most in a month against the US dollar following Indias military strikes on Pakistan. The currency gained 37 paise to close at 84.83 against on Wednesday, the sharpest rise since 9 April. Intervension by the Reserve Bank of India prevented the rupee from depreciating beyond the intra-day high of 84.94.

Also read | Does Pakistan have the wherewithal to fight India?
Operation Sindoor: As India responded to last month's terrorist attack on its citizens in Pahalgam, Kashmir, by launching strikes on Pakistan and Pakistan Kashmir, it elicited reactions from stock market mavens from Radhika Gupta, Vijay Kedia and Porinju Veliyath, who hailed the government's actions.

Even the Indian stock market stood firm in the face of these attacks. Analysts believe that while this action might cause some short-term volatility, history suggests that markets tend to rebound from these incidents strongly in the long term.

Operation Sindoor: Stock market mavens' reaction Here's how stock market experts reacted to the rising India-Pakistan conflict:

Vijay Kedia Ace investor Vijay Kedia responded to the government's action with a poem, calling India's retaliation not revenge but justice. Here's a look at what he said:

Radhika Gupta Radhika Gupta, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Edelweiss Mutual Fund, hailed the efforts of the Indian armed forces. Gupta, in a short post on X, stated: Jai Hind. Jai Hind ki Sena.

Porinju Veliyath Small-cap czar Porinju Veliyath cheered Prime Minister Narendra Modi's action against Pakistan. At least 26 tourists have been killed in the terror attack at Baisaran in Pahalgam. According to one of the survivors, the terrorists left a chilling message for Prime Minister Modi before opening fire on the tourists.

According to one of the survivors who lost her husband in the attack, when she begged the terrorists to kill her as well, one of them replied, I wont kill you. Go tell this to Modi.

Against this backdrop, Porinju posted on X: Go and tell Modi; Modi Listened.

Deepak Shenoy Deepak Shenoy, CEO of CapitalMind, thanked the Indian defence forces for their valiant efforts. Shenoy tweeted, Wishing our Defence forces the very best. Cannot thank you enough for protecting our borders.

Gurmeet Chadha Gurmeet Chadha of Complete Circles said while markets will be volatile due to the escalation in India-Pakistan conflict following Operation Sindoor, three important developments  India-UK FRA, China cutting rates, and US Fed's bond buying action  will have a positive long-term economic impact.

Indian stock market today: Sensex, Nifty volatile The Indian stock market held its ground following India's military strike on several terrorist base camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.

The Sensex hit the day's high of 80,844.63 and an intra-day low of 79,937.48. The NSE Nifty hit a high of 24,449.60 and a low of 24,220, highlighting highly range-bound, volatile movement.

What stands out in Operation Sindoor from the market perspective is its focused and non-escalatory nature. We have to wait and watch how the enemy reacts to this precision strikes by India. The market is unlikely to be impacted by the retaliatory strike by India since that was known and discounted by the market, explained Dr. VK Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist, Geojit Investments.

Meanwhile, Pankaj Singh, smallcase manager and Founder and Principal Researcher at SmartWealth.ai, explained that geopolitical tensions like the ongoing Indo-Pak standoff under Operation Sindoor tend to cause immediate market volatility, as seen with the Nifty and Sensex dropping 0.60.8% recently. Historically, such episodes trigger short-term dipsKargil War (-4%), Parliament Attack (-3%), Mumbai Attacks (-4%), and Balakot Airstrike (-3%), he added.

However, markets have consistently rebounded in the long term. After the Kargil War, the Sensex surged 63% within a year. Post-Parliament Attack, it rose over 20% the following year. Following the Mumbai Attacks, it gained 60% within 12 months, and after Balakot, it climbed 15% by year-end. While short-term caution is reasonable, history shows that Indian markets demonstrate strong resilience once clarity returns, Singh added.
The Indian stock market benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty 50, are likely to open lower on Wednesday amid heightened geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan, and mixed global market cues.

The trends on Gift Nifty also indicate a negative start for the Indian benchmark index. The Gift Nifty was trading around 24,359 level, a discount of nearly 72 points from the Nifty futures previous close.

Sentiment may remain sour after Indian Armed Forces conducted Operation Sindoor, striking terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan. As many as nine sites were struck in the operation, which were the prime targets.

On Tuesday, the domestic equity market indices ended lower, with the Nifty 50 closing below 24,400 level.

The Sensex dropped 155.77 points, or 0.19%, to close at 80,641.07, while the Nifty 50 settled 81.55 points, or 0.33%, lower at 24,379.60.

Heres what to expect from Sensex, Nifty 50 and Bank Nifty today:

Sensex Prediction Sensex formed a bearish candle on daily charts and a lower top formation on intraday charts on Tuesday, indicating further weakness from the current levels.

We are of the view that as long as Sensex is trading below 81,000, the weak sentiment is likely to continue. On the lower side, the index could retest the level of 80,300. Further downside may also continue, which could drag the index down to 80,000. On the other side, a dismissal of 81,000 could push Sensex up to 81,300 - 81,400, said Shrikant Chouhan, Head Equity Research, Kotak Securities.

The current market texture is non-directional; hence, levels-based trading would be the ideal strategy for day traders, he added.

Nifty 50 Prediction Nifty closed the day lower by 81 points amidst weak overall market breadth on May 6.

A reasonable negative candle was formed on the daily chart, which is signaling a lackluster movement in the market. There was no strength in the upside momentum to break out of the range. The overall chart pattern signal formation of rising wedge type pattern at the highs. Technically, such rising wedge formations after a reasonable upmove shows early signs of reversal pattern on the downside post confirmation, said Nagaraj Shetti, Senior Technical Research Analyst at HDFC Securities.

According to Shetti, the underlying trend of Nifty 50 remains choppy with weak market breadth, and any weakness below the immediate support of 24,200 could trigger short term downward correction in the market. However, a decisive move above 24,600 could negate the bearish sentiments for the near term.

Om Mehra, Technical Research Analyst, SAMCO Securities noted that the Nifty 50 index formed a bearish engulfing pattern on the daily chart, signaling a pause or short-term reversal in the uptrend.

However, Nifty 50 still holds above all the key moving averages, keeping the broader trend intact. Yet, if it falls below 24,240, the 9 EMA may no longer act as support and could turn into a barrier for any recovery attempt. The daily RSI remains steady around 65, showing neutral momentum. On the hourly chart, Nifty has broken a trendline connecting recent swing lows, hinting at a possible loss of intraday strength. The support is now seen near 24,200, which also aligns with the hourly Supertrend, Mehra said.

Also Read | Breakout stocks to buy or sell: Sumeet Bagadia recommends five shares to buy

India VIX rose 3.60 percent and settled at 19, reflecting increased nervousness in the market. If it crosses the 21 mark, the index could slide further towards the 24,050  24,000 range.

The resistance remains at 24,530, he added.

While the overall trend is still positive, the current dip appears to be a regular pullback, which might extend into the next session, said Mehra.

Hrishikesh Yedve, AVP Technical and Derivatives Research at Asit C. Mehta Investment Interrmediates Ltd. said that immediate resistance for Nifty 50 is placed at 24,590, while support is seen near the 200-Day Simple Moving Average (24,050). A sustained move below 24,300 could pull the index towards the 24,200  24,050 zone.

VLA Ambala, Co-Founder of Stock Market Today, suggests traders looking for swing trading opportunities with a long-term view to wait for further price dips before initiating any fresh positions.

Considering these ongoing developments, Nifty 50 can find support near 24,250 and 24,180 and meet resistance between 24,550 and 24,640, Ambala said.

Bank Nifty Prediction Bank Nifty index declined 648.10 points, or 1.18%, to close at 54,271.40 on Tuesday, forming a bearish candle on the daily chart.

Bank Nifty index slipped below its 9 EMA, and the previous swing low of 54,175 has also been breached, making the support zone appear vulnerable. The recent correction can be attributed to mean reversion, as the index faced resistance near the upper Bollinger Band on the daily chart. Nifty Bank has also moved below the 23.6 percent Fibonacci retracement level, placed at 54,460, said Om Mehra.

According to him, the next crucial support lies near the 38.2% retracement level, around 53,400, which also coincides with the 20-Day simple moving average and adds strength to this zone.

The daily MACD setup is now tilting to the downside, with the fast line crossing below the slow line, suggesting weakening momentum. However, the primary trend remains bullish. The current decline appears to be a normal correction rather than a shift in the overall trend, Mehra said.

Hrishikesh Yedve highlighted that on the daily chart, Bank Nifty formed a big red candle, reflecting weakness.

Immediate resistance for Bank Nifty is placed at 55,000, followed by 56,000, while key support lies at 53,890. Traders are advised to adopt a sell on rise strategy in Bank Nifty till it remains below 56,000 levels, Yedve said.
The defence sector has come into sharp focus following Indias retaliatory attacks targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir early Wednesday.

As during any crossborder conflict, the escalating tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours are expected to boost earnings for domestic defence companies. A strong and resilient export outlook further strengthens the sectors prospects, said experts.

Since the terror attack on tourists in Kashmirs Pahalgam area on 22 April, the Nifty Defence index has increased 2.99%, significantly outperforming the Nifty 50, which has gained 1.2% over the same period.

Following India's attacks on Wednesday, codenamed Operation Sindoor, the Nifty 50 and Sensex held strong despite early jitters, ending the day's trading session in the green.

Among domestic defence-related companies, Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd has gained 3.88% over the past fortnight, Bharat Dynamics Ltd has gained 1.85%, and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd, 2.33%.

Vikas Gupta, chief executive officer and chief investment strategist at OmniScience Capital, said the prospect of retaliatory action by Indian armed forces following the Pahalgam terror attack had intensified focus on the defence sector, with the defence ministry prioritising faster execution of projects.

While the order books of defence companies are large, spanning five-seven years, execution lagged, he said. Now, there is pressure to execute orders quicker, possibly within three years instead of five. This could accelerate revenue and earnings If that happens, analysts could upgrade their projections for defence companies," said Gupta.

A key growth trigger for Indias defense sector was US President Donald Trump calling on Nato members to spend 5% of their GDP on defence. While India is not a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, less-developed countries are turning to affordable Indian weapons systems, boosting the prospects for Indias export", Gupta added.

Also read | Operation Sindoor: Tensions spark worry over kharif sowing in border states

Indias opportunity

Export opportunities for Indian defence manufacturers are significant as the global defence stockpile is at a 10-year low, said Vinit Bolinjkar, head of research at Ventura Securities, adding that only a few countries were shipping defence products.

Russia is restricted in its export capabilities because any country buying from it risks sanctions from the US. Similarly, Israel, which is constantly engaged in conflict, has depleted its stockpile and cannot afford to export," Bolinjkar said.

France is known more for its specialized, high-end defense equipment such as submarines and fighter jets, and not for conventional or cost-effective arms.

In this scenario, India is well-positioned to fill the gap, especially in the segment of affordable, conventional defence equipment, Bolinjkar said.

Investing in defence

Within Indias defence sector, sub-sectors such as aerospace and shipbuilding show significant potential, said experts.

Anirudh Garg, partner and fund manager at Invasset PMS, said the collaboration between Tata Advanced Systems Ltd and Airbus SE for the first military aircraft to be built in India highlighted the long-term growth prospects of the domestic defence sector.

The private defence sector is another area gaining momentum, with companies such as Adani Defence & Aerospace making headway in UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles), missiles, and ammunition," Garg said.

Also read | Govt may invoke ESMA to curb hoarding, ensure steady supplies post Operation Sindoormark

Gupta of OmniScience Capital recommended that instead of betting on pure-play arms and ammunition companies, investors should look at companies that have an indirect exposure to the defence sector, such as those involved in critical minerals, cybersecurity, and drones.

NMDC Ltd, Coal India Ltd, and Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation Ltd operate in the critical minerals segment.

During a war, the priority often shifts from acquiring new platforms or systems to maximizing the operational capacity of the existing ones. For example, instead of placing new orders for an aircraft, the focus would be on ensuring that the existing aircraft are already in service are fully operational," said Yellapu Santosh, research analyst at Anand Rathi Institutional Equities.

This leads to increased demand for maintenance, repairs, and upgrades, rather than new purchases.

Also, if the India-Pakistan conflict escalates into a full-blown war, companies involved in producing consumables, such as Solar Industries India Ltd and Bharat Dynamics Ltd, are likely to see more opportunities as demand for consumables increase, Santosh said.
Operation Sindoor: The India-Pakistan conflict has escalated to new heights after India carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistani territory since 1971. India said early Wednesday that it launched Operation Sindoor, conducting a precise and restrained response that was designed to be non-escalatory in nature and only targeted known terror camps and hit no Pakistani civilian, economic or military targets  a statement disputed by Pakistan.

Read all the key things about Operation Sindoor here

Operation Sindoor is India's responses to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed at least 26 people. The Indian stock market appears to be largely unaffected by this fresh flare-up of tensions between India and Pakistan.

The Sensex opened 692 points lower at 79,948.80 against its previous close of 80,641.07, but soon erased losses to rise over 200 points to the level of 80,845. The index was volatile as around 10 AM, the 30-share pack was 32 points, or 0.04 per cent, down at 80,609. The Nifty 50 was 19 points, or 0.08 per cent, lower at 24,361 at that time. The BSE Midcap index was flat, while the BSE Smallcap index was down 0.33 per cent.

Track Indian Stock Market Live Updates Here

Operation Sindoor: How could escalating India-Pakistan conflict impact the Indian stock market? While experts believe tensions between India and Pakistan may weigh on the market sentiment, they do not expect the market to see a sharp downside due to it.

They point out the focused, measured, and non-escalatory nature of Operation Sindoor, which avoided Pakistani military or strategic sites.

"What stands out in 'Operation Sindoor' from the market perspective is its focused and non-escalatory nature. We have to wait and watch how the enemy reacts to these precision strikes by India. The market is unlikely to be impacted by the retaliatory strike by India since that was known and discounted by the market," said VK Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist, Geojit Investments.

As Operation Sindoor was a pure retaliation, aimed solely at terror camps, the message is clear: India does not seek to escalate tensions.

Experts, however, believe there could be some reaction from Pakistan to save its face.

"There could be some reaction from Pakistan, as it may feel the need to save face. We have to wait and watch. That said, Pakistan does not have the economic muscle to sustain a prolonged conflict," said Vijayakumar.

India-Pakistan tensions and Indian stock market: What does history suggest? The Indian stock market has historically been resilient during times of geopolitical tensions, largely due to a strong domestic economy.

For example, from May 3, 1999, to July 26, 1999, during the Kargil war, the Indian market showed resilience and experienced a slight decline of 0.8 per cent.

During the two days of the Mumbai 26/11 terror attack in 2008, the Sensex climbed by around 400 points, while the Nifty gained 100 points.

The Indian stock market responded negatively to the Pulwama attack in 2019, with indices dropping more than 1.8 per cent from February 14 to March 1.

"Market responses may be muted during times of Indo-Pak conflict. The domestic market has never panicked during such episodes, as India holds a clear advantage in a conventional war. The situation would be very different in the event of an India-China conflict," Vijayakumar explained.

Trivesh D, COO of Tradejini, also underscored that historically, India-Pakistan tensions or even full-blown conflicts havent derailed long-term performance.

"Take the Kargil War in 1999: between 23rd May and 26th July, the Sensex surged 37 per cent. During the Pulwama attack in February 2019, the Nifty fell just 0.2 per cent the next day, dipped again after the air strikes, and then resumed its uptrend. Even after the Uri attack in 2016, the market was down 1.76 per cent post-surgical strikes but was already in a broader downtrend," said Trivesh.

"The increased uncertainty surrounding IndiaPakistan tensions will inevitably cause turbulence in the market, but history indicates that corrections are typically mild and quickly rebound. A focused approach rooted in quality companies and selective sector play is the key," said Rajesh Sinha, Senior Research Analyst at Bonanza Group.

What should be your investment strategy? Experts say investors should avoid panicking and focus on large-caps, which are relatively more stable than the mid- and small-cap segments.

Moreover, a diversified portfolio and focus on domestic consumption-oriented sectors may help investors efficiently navigate market volatility.

"Even as small-cap and mid-cap segments could lag as a few investors turn defensive amid border tensions, the situation offers a compelling opportunity to be overweight in quality large-cap stocks," said Sinha.

Sinha suggested investors should prioritise sectors that show strength in the face of volatility, including leading banks with solid capital cushions.

Moreover, Sinha pointed out that FMCG companies enjoy inelastic demand, and defence contractors can benefit from heightened budgetary allotments.

Trivesh of Tradejini said one should keep an eye on defence and infrastructure.

"These typically attract more attention during such times. Pharma and FMCG also act defensively, cushioning shocks when sentiment turns cautious. And if crude prices surge, energy stocks could react positively," he said.

Trivesh emphasised avoiding knee-jerk buying based on fear or news flow and staying aligned with the broader trend and use any dips to enter quality names.

Vijayakumar of Geojit Investments underscored that at this juncture, there is no deep value in any sector, with Niftys valuation trading above 20 times its FY26 earnings. However, despite the run-up, the financial sectors prospects remain bright.

He said the telecom sector also looks promising at this point, while the defence sector may witness a sentimental boost, but it lacks deep value, even though it offers some long-term potential.

Read all market-related news here

Read more stories by Nishant Kumar
India-Pakistan conflict: The Pakistan stock market took a significant hit on Wednesday, May 7, as investors reacted to India's overnight strikes on nine terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, carried out under 'Operation Sindoor'.

Pakistan's main stock market index, the Karachi-100, plunged by 6,272 points or nearly 6 per cent during early trading on Wednesday, hitting a low of 107,296.64 compared to Tuesday's close of 113,568.51.

Following the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam, the KSE-100 index has declined by 3.7 per cent, whereas the domestic Sensex index has gained approximately 1.5 per cent.

The rising tensions between India and Pakistan following the terrorist attack have had a major negative effect on Pakistan's stock markets. From April 23 to May 5, the Karachi Stock Exchange's benchmark KSE-100 index has declined 3.7%, driven by fears of a possible military conflict.

Indian stock market today Meanwhile, the Indian stock market seems to be showing resilience despite the renewed tensions between India and Pakistan.

Although the Sensex initially dropped 692 points to 79,948.80 from its previous close of 80,641.07, it quickly rebounded, gaining over 200 points to reach 80,845.

Market volatility persisted, and by around 10 AM, the Sensex was down just 32 points, or 0.04%, at 80,609. At the same time, the Nifty 50 slipped 19 points, or 0.08%, to 24,361.

"Geopolitical tensions like the ongoing Indo-Pak standoff under Operation Sindoor tend to cause immediate market volatility, as seen with the Nifty and Sensex dropping 0.60.8% recently. However, markets have consistently rebounded in the long term. After the Kargil War, the Sensex surged 63% within a year. Post-Parliament Attack, it rose over 20% the following year. Following the Mumbai Attacks, it gained 60% within 12 months, and after Balakot, it climbed 15% by year-end.

While short-term caution is reasonable, history shows that Indian markets demonstrate strong resilience once clarity returns. Unless accompanied by broader economic or global shocks, Indo-Pak tensions have not had a lasting negative impact. Investors should focus on fundamentals, not fear," said Pankaj Singh, smallcase manager and Founder and Principle Researcher at SmartWealth.ai.

(With inputs from agencies)
Stock market today: The benchmark Nifty-50 index on Tuesday ended 0.33% lower at 24,379.60, as caution prevailed among mixed cues. The Bank Nifty ended more than 1% lower at 54,271.40. Most other sectors led by Realty, oil and gas with an exception of the Auto sector trended lower. Broader indices also lost more than 2%

Trade Setup for Wednesday Despite today's correction, the short-term trend for the Nifty remains positive. On the upside, the 24,500 level is likely to act as immediate resistance, while the 24,200 level could provide immediate support, said Nandish Shah - Deputy Vice President, HDFC Securities

Immediate resistance for Bank Nifty is placed at 55,000, followed by 56,000, while key support lies at 53,890, said Hrishikesh Yedve, AVP Technical and Derivatives Research at Asit C. Mehta Investment Interrmediates

Global Markets and Q4 Results "The domestic market has been consolidating in recent sessions following the strong recovery, driven by cautious sentiment amid India-Pakistan border tensions. Weak earnings growth for the current quarter has further impacted the market. Small- and mid-cap stocks have underperformed compared to benchmark indices. Meanwhile, investors are closely monitoring India's bilateral trade negotiations with the US. Additionally, speculation around the US Federal Reserve is drawing attention, as no rate cuts are expected in the near term, affecting global trends, said Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Investments Limited.

Stocks to buy today Sumeet Bagadia, Executive Director at Choice Broking, has recommended two stock picks for today. Ganesh Dongre, Senior Manager of Technical Research at Anand Rathi, suggested three stocks, while Shiju Koothupalakkal, Senior Manager  Technical Research, at Prabhudas Lilladher has given three stock picks.

Sumeet Bagadia's stock picks 1.Coromandel International Ltd- Bagadia recommends buying Coromandel International at 2284 keeping Stoploss at 2200 for a target price of 2450

COROMANDEL, is currently trading at 2284, exhibits a strong uptrend and bullish breakout on the daily chart, supported by its consistent position above key exponential moving averages (EMAs). Recent price action indicates a consolidation phase following a notable rally, with the stock maintaining levels near the 20-Day EMA. The reclaim of the 20-day EMA is especially noteworthy, as it often signifies a shift from bearish to bullish sentiment

2 Poly Medicure Ltd- Bagadia recommends buying Poly Medicure at 2775 keeping Stoploss at 2670 for a target price of 2970

POLYMED delivered a strong bullish performance. The rally was backed by strong volumes and a sharp bullish candle, suggesting aggressive accumulation at lower levels. The counter has been on a strong uptrend since early April, marking a decisive breakout and the trend has shifted from a prolonged consolidation and downward pressure to a clear structure of higher highs and higher lows. A bullish candle with strong range expansion underscores renewed investor confidence and robust momentum in the stock

Ganesh Dongre's stocks to buy today 3. Zydus Lifesciences Ltd _ Dongre recommends buying Zydus Lifesciences at around 880 keeping Stoploss at 865 for a target price of 905

In the short-term trend outlook, ZYDUSLIFE is displaying a strong bullish setup, making it a compelling buy candidate. On the daily chart, the stock has formed a Bullish Engulfing patterna classic signal indicating a potential reversal following recent corrective action. The stock is currently holding key support near  865 and offers a favorable entry opportunity in the  880. Technical indicators suggest momentum may build toward the 905 target, with a prudent stop-loss to be maintained at  865 to manage downside risk.

4.India Cements Ltd - Dongre recommends buying India Cements at 310 keeping Stoploss at 302 for a target price of 325

INDIACEM has shown encouraging signs of a trend reversal on its daily chart, forming a Bullish Engulfing pattern after a period of decline. The stock is indicating renewed buying interest at lower levels. With strong support around  302, INDIACEM offers a short-term buying opportunity at  310, aiming for a target of 325 while keeping a stop-loss at  302.

5. Sundaram Finance Ltd- Dongre recommends buying Sundaram Finance at 5120 keeping Stoploss at 5030 for a target price of 5320.

SUNDARMFIN is showing a bullish reversal candlestick pattern near its crucial support zone, signaling that recent selling may be losing steam. The stock is trading well above its 50-day EMA, further supporting the positive bias. With a current level around  5120, SUNDARMFIN presents a buying opportunity for a potential move toward  5320, with a protective stop-loss recommended at  5030 to limit downside exposure.

Shiju Koothupalakkal's intraday stocks for today 6. Hindustan Unilever Ltd- Koothupalakkal recommends buying Hindustan Unilever at 2381 for a target price of 2480 keeping Stoploss at 2340

The stock after a short period of correction has taken support near the important 50EMA at 2315 zone and indicated a decent revival with a positive candle setup on the daily chart to signify strength and can anticipate for further rise in the coming days. The RSI has cooled off from the highly overbought zone and is currently well positioned with strength indicated and has signaled a buy with a positive trend reversal. With the chart technically maintained strong, we suggest to buy the stock for an upside target of 2480 level keeping the stop loss of 2340 level.

7. Godrej Industries Ltd- Koothupalakkal recommends buying Godrej Industries at 1112 for a Target price of 1150 keeping Stop loss at 1090

The stock has once again maintained a good support near the 200 period MA at 1045 level and indicated a decent pullback to move past the important 50EMA at 1094 level to improve the bias and can anticipate for further upward move in the coming sessions. The RSI is well placed and indicated a positive trend reversal to signal a buy and can carry on with the positive move further ahead. With the chart technically looking good, we suggest to buy the stock for an upside target of 1150 level keeping the stop loss of 1090 level.

8. Biocon Ltd - Koothupalakkal recommends buying BIOCON at around 341.45 for a target price of 356 keeping Stop loss at 334

The stock has indicated a significant pullback from 310 level with series of higher bottom formation on the daily chart and currently has moved past the important 50EMA at 335 zone to anticipate for another round of fresh upward move with bias improving. The RSI is well positioned indicating strength and has indicated a positive trend reversal to signal a buy with much upside potential visible. With the chart looking good, we suggest to buy the stock for an upside target of 356 keeping the stop loss of 334 level.
India's equity benchmarks ended in the red on Tuesday, 6 May, weighed down by escalating tensions between India and Pakistan and weak global cues ahead of the US Federal Reserves policy decision.

The market opened on a positive note with a gap-up, but early optimism faded quickly as geopolitical concerns took hold, triggering a sharp sell-off in the first half of the session. The spike in India VIX reflected rising investor nervousness.

Unlike recent sessions that saw late-day recoveries, Tuesdays action remained subdued after the initial fall. Indices moved sideways through midday with no meaningful bounce, as selling pressure persisted across key sectors and broader market sentiment remained weak.

Read this | Five stocks that could deliver big over the next five years

The Nifty 50 closed 81.55 points lower (0.33%) at 24,379.60, while the BSE Sensex declined 155.77 points (0.19%) to settle at 80,641.07. The Bank Nifty underperformed, shedding 648.10 points (1.18%) to end at 54,271.40 amid heavy selling in banking stocks.

Top three stocks to buy today, recommended by Ankush Bajaj:

Buy: Max Healthacre Ltd (current price:  1,156)

Why its recommended : Stock has closed above  1145 which was a key resistance level on the daily chart. This breakout signals a shift in momentum. Price action confirms strength with bullish candlesticks and consistent volumes during the move. RSI is also trending upward, showing improving momentum.

: Stock has closed above 1145 which was a key resistance level on the daily chart. This breakout signals a shift in momentum. Price action confirms strength with bullish candlesticks and consistent volumes during the move. RSI is also trending upward, showing improving momentum. Key metrics : Resistance level:  1,145 (breakout level), Support level:  1,128 (recent swing low), Pattern: Horizontal resistance breakout on daily chart, Volume: Healthy and increasing

: Resistance level: 1,145 (breakout level), Support level: 1,128 (recent swing low), Pattern: Horizontal resistance breakout on daily chart, Volume: Healthy and increasing Technical analysis : Price action confirms a breakout with follow-through buying and strong daily close above resistance. RSI is rising, validating the bullish setup. Previous resistance now acts as a support.

: Price action confirms a breakout with follow-through buying and strong daily close above resistance. RSI is rising, validating the bullish setup. Previous resistance now acts as a support. Risk factors : Healthcare sector stocks may react to policy or regulatory news. If the stock fails to hold above  1,145, breakout might get invalidated.

: Healthcare sector stocks may react to policy or regulatory news. If the stock fails to hold above 1,145, breakout might get invalidated. Buy at :  1,156

: 1,156 Target price :  1,200  1,220 in 1 week

: 1,200 1,220 in 1 week Stop loss:  1,128

Read this | Q4 earnings watch: Consumption giants drive revenue but lag in profits

Buy: HDFC Life (current price:  722.60)

Why its recommended : Stock is in a strong uptrend, characterized by a sequence of higher highs and higher lows. The stock recently broke out of a consolidation range around  720  735 with a big surge in price. This breakout was confirmed by heavy volume, reflecting genuine buying interest from the market.

: Stock is in a strong uptrend, characterized by a sequence of higher highs and higher lows. The stock recently broke out of a consolidation range around 720 735 with a big surge in price. This breakout was confirmed by heavy volume, reflecting genuine buying interest from the market. Key metrics : Resistance level:  735 (upper end of previous range), Support level:  690 (swing support), Pattern: Consolidation breakout, Volume: High breakout volume

: Resistance level: 735 (upper end of previous range), Support level: 690 (swing support), Pattern: Consolidation breakout, Volume: High breakout volume Technical analysis : Price action confirms breakout with strong follow-through. RSI is in bullish zone, and stock is trading above key moving averages, further supporting the uptrend.

: Price action confirms breakout with strong follow-through. RSI is in bullish zone, and stock is trading above key moving averages, further supporting the uptrend. Risk factors : Broader market weakness or reversal could impact performance. If price falls below  690, breakout could be invalidated.

: Broader market weakness or reversal could impact performance. If price falls below 690, breakout could be invalidated. Buy at :  722.60

: 722.60 Target price :  775  790 in 1 week

: 775 790 in 1 week Stop loss:  690

Buy: Apollo Tyre Ltd (current price:  482.85)

Why its recommended : Apollo Tyres has broken out above a major resistance (~  440) formed by a double bottom pattern. This pattern breakout signals a trend reversal to the upside. The stock is now trading above key moving averages, reflecting renewed upward momentum. The RSI momentum indicator has rebounded from the 60 level and now resides in bullish territory, confirming strengthening momentum.

: Apollo Tyres has broken out above a major resistance (~ 440) formed by a double bottom pattern. This pattern breakout signals a trend reversal to the upside. The stock is now trading above key moving averages, reflecting renewed upward momentum. The RSI momentum indicator has rebounded from the 60 level and now resides in bullish territory, confirming strengthening momentum. Key metrics : Resistance level:  440 (double bottom breakout), Support level:  468 (near-term swing low), Pattern: Double bottom breakout, Volume: Strong volume during breakout

: Resistance level: 440 (double bottom breakout), Support level: 468 (near-term swing low), Pattern: Double bottom breakout, Volume: Strong volume during breakout Technical analysis : Price action confirms trend reversal with breakout above neckline. Sustained closing above moving averages with bullish RSI supports further upside.

: Price action confirms trend reversal with breakout above neckline. Sustained closing above moving averages with bullish RSI supports further upside. Risk factors : Sector rotation or market-wide correction may affect short-term trend. Breakdown below  468 may invalidate setup.

: Sector rotation or market-wide correction may affect short-term trend. Breakdown below 468 may invalidate setup. Buy at :  482.85

: 482.85 Target price :  505  510 in 1 week

: 505 510 in 1 week Stop loss:  468

Two stock recommendations by MarketSmith India:

Buy: Hindustan Unilever Ltd. (current price:  2,381.8)

Why its recommended: Resilient business model with strong brand portfolio, strategic initiatives, and future outlook

Resilient business model with strong brand portfolio, strategic initiatives, and future outlook Key metrics : P/E: 52.82, 52-week high:  3,035.00, volume:  448.16 crore

: P/E: 52.82, 52-week high: 3,035.00, volume: 448.16 crore Technical analysis : Bounced back from its 100-DMA

: Bounced back from its 100-DMA Risk factors : Slower rural demand recovery, high valuation

: Slower rural demand recovery, high valuation Buy at :  2,381.8

: 2,381.8 Target price :  2,590 in three months

: 2,590 in three months Stop loss:  2,290

Buy: Fortis Healthcare Ltd (current price:  687)

Why its recommended: Strategic capacity expansion and robust financial performance

Strategic capacity expansion and robust financial performance Key metrics : P/E: 61.30, 52-week high:  743, volume:  113.46 crore

: P/E: 61.30, 52-week high: 743, volume: 113.46 crore Technical analysis : Horizontal trendline breakout

: Horizontal trendline breakout Risk factors : Dependence on key geographies

: Dependence on key geographies Buy at :  687

: 687 Target price :  845 in three months

: 845 in three months Stop loss:  625

Three stocks to trade today, recommended by NeoTraders Raja Venkatraman:

Voltas (current price  1,227.20)

Sell below 1,222 and rallies to 1,250, stop 1,265, target 1,125-1,090

Why its recommended : Voltas stock has been weakening due to a combination of factors, including concerns about the company's engineering, manufacturing, and project services segment, mixed performance in Q3 and Q4, and cautious outlooks from peers such as Havells India. The EMPS segment has faced setbacks such as execution delays, cost escalations and legal disputes, impacting profitability.

: Voltas stock has been weakening due to a combination of factors, including concerns about the company's engineering, manufacturing, and project services segment, mixed performance in Q3 and Q4, and cautious outlooks from peers such as Havells India. The EMPS segment has faced setbacks such as execution delays, cost escalations and legal disputes, impacting profitability. Key metrics:

P/E: 59

52-week high: 1946.20

Volume: 1.2M

Technical analysis : Support at  1,100, resistance at  1,325

: Support at 1,100, resistance at 1,325 Risk factors : High volatility, negative investor sentiment and long-term bearish trends.

: High volatility, negative investor sentiment and long-term bearish trends. Sell at : CMP and rally to  1,250

: CMP and rally to 1,250 Target price :  1,125-1,090 in one month.

: 1,125-1,090 in one month. Stop loss:  1,265

JSW ENERGY (current price  466)

Sell at CMP and rallies to 481, stop 490, target 440-425

Why its recommended : JSW Energys stock price decline can be attributed to a combination of factors, including a drop in profit after tax, a decline in revenue, and a bearish trend indicated by trading below moving averages. These factors, coupled with mixed market sentiment, have contributed to a broader negative outlook for the stock.

: JSW Energys stock price decline can be attributed to a combination of factors, including a drop in profit after tax, a decline in revenue, and a bearish trend indicated by trading below moving averages. These factors, coupled with mixed market sentiment, have contributed to a broader negative outlook for the stock. Key metrics:

P/E: 15.66

52-week high: 213

Volume: 4.89M

Technical analysis : Support at  431, resistance at  610

: Support at 431, resistance at 610 Risk factors : Market fluctuations, regulatory changes, and sector-specific challenges in the power distribution industry.

: Market fluctuations, regulatory changes, and sector-specific challenges in the power distribution industry. Sell at : CMP and rally to  481

: CMP and rally to 481 Target price :  440-425 in one month

: 440-425 in one month Stop loss:  490

Also read: Treasury gains save SBIs day, but couldnt avert earnings downgrades

KEI Industries Ltd (current price  3,193.90)

Buy above 3,210 and dips to 3,150, stop 3,130 target 3,330-3,450

Why its recommended : Goldman Sachs recently upgraded KEI Industries to a buy, marking the first time it has taken a bullish stance on the stock since initiating coverage in November 2023. Also, the charts indicate the formation of a V-shaped recovery.

: Goldman Sachs recently upgraded KEI Industries to a buy, marking the first time it has taken a bullish stance on the stock since initiating coverage in November 2023. Also, the charts indicate the formation of a V-shaped recovery. Key metrics:

P/E: 45.39

52-week high: 5040

Volume: 1.03M

T echnical analysis : Support at  2,800, resistance at  3,400

: Support at 2,800, resistance at 3,400 Risk factors : Raw material volatility and competition from domestic players could impact profitability.

: Raw material volatility and competition from domestic players could impact profitability. Buy at : CMP and dips to  3,150.

: CMP and dips to 3,150. Target price :  3,330-3,450 in one month

: 3,330-3,450 in one month Stop loss:  3,130

Also Read: Shareholding moves in Q4: Did retail investors' small-cap love fizzle out?

Ankush Bajaj is a Sebi-registered research analyst. His registration number is INH000010441.

Raja Venkatraman is co-founder, NeoTrader. His Sebi-registered research analyst registration no. is INH000016223.

MarketSmith India: Trade name: William O'Neil India Pvt. Ltd. Its Sebi-registered research analyst registration number is INH000015543.

Investments in securities are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing. Registration granted by Sebi and certification from NISM in no way guarantees performance of the intermediary or provide any assurance of returns to investors.

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."
In India, personal loans are one of the easiest ways to avail funds for urgent financial needs and aspirations. Be it a medical emergency, home renovation or a wedding all such life events require money for efficient management, that is why the importance of personal loans for borrowers cannot be underestimated.

In such a scenario a common doubt among borrowers is whether every personal loan requires a collateral or not. The simple answer to the same is that not every personal loan requires the borrower to submit a collateral.

Furthermore, whether collateral is needed depends on the loan type whether the loan is a secured loan or an unsecured loan and the lender's risk taking appetite.

Secured vs unsecured personal loans All personal loans are generally provided in two forms: unsecured and secured. It is important to understand the key differences between the two before applying as the requirement of a collateral entirely depends on the type of loan an applicant is looking to apply:

Feature Secured personal loan Unsecured personal loan Collateral required Yes  assets like gold, property, or fixed deposits must be pledged. No  loan is given based on creditworthiness and income. Interest rate Lower, as the lender's risk is reduced due to collateral. Higher, due to increased risk for the lender. Loan examples HDFC Bank: Gold Loan, Loan Against Property

ICICI Bank: Loan Against FD

Kotak Bank: Loan Against Mutual Fund HDFC Bank: Personal Loan (No Security)

ICICI Bank: Instant Personal Loan

Kotak Bank: Personal Loan for Salaried Best for Individuals with valuable assets and lower credit scores Individuals with strong credit scores and no collateral to offer.

This table is for illustrative purposes only. For specific loan offers, eligibility, and terms, please visit the official websites of the respective banks.

When is collateral required? Given unsecured personal loans dominate the Indian market, there are scenarios where lenders might still ask for collateral due to the following reasons:

Low credit score: All borrowers with a poor repayment history or a default earlier may be required to pledge assets.

All borrowers with a poor repayment history or a default earlier may be required to pledge assets. High loan amount: For significantly high loan amounts, lenders might prefer to reduce their risk by securing the loan with an asset to ensure that the overall risk becomes as less as possible.

For significantly high loan amounts, lenders might prefer to reduce their risk by securing the loan with an asset to ensure that the overall risk becomes as less as possible. Irregular income or self employed: Individuals without a regular source of income may need to offer collateral to qualify for a loan. In all such cases collateral can include gold, fixed deposits or even property.

What does the RBI say? The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has raised serious concerns about the surge in unsecured personal loans, especially among young borrowers. To reduce this systemic risk, the RBI has increased capital requirements for NBFCs and banks offering such loans. The primary objective is to ensure responsible lending and credit behaviour while protecting the broader financial system.

Conclusion Hence, not all personal loans require collateral. Unsecured loans are widely available to aspirational borrowers with solid credit scores and stable incomes.

Still, if your credit profile is weak or you are seeking a high loan amount be ready for the possibility of offering security. Therefore, as always, it is prudent to evaluate and check your financial condition and compare offerings across banks to select the right loan type.

Disclaimer: Mint has a tie-up with fintechs for providing credit; you will need to share your information if you apply. These tie-ups do not influence our editorial content. This article only intends to educate and spread awareness about credit needs like loans, credit cards and credit scores. Mint does not promote or encourage taking credit, as it comes with a set of risks such as high interest rates, hidden charges, etc. We advise investors to discuss with certified experts before taking any credit.
On the surface, all stockbroking apps look similar. They help you trade for a fee, and users normally do a cost-benefit analysis before choosing one that suits them. However, what very few people realise is how much data  and what type  these apps collect.

Mint went to the Google Play Store and checked what permissions 16 popular stockbroking apps request from Android users. What we found is that different brokerages ask for different kinds  and numbers  of permissions.

Consider Angel One, Indias third-largest stockbroker by active clients. The app asks for permission to read the users contact list, and to know which other apps are installed on your phone. Such access, which can be used for various purposes (for instance, antivirus apps need to know which other apps are installed on the phone so it can scan them), is hidden behind technical lingo  query all packages. The Angel One app has been downloaded more than five crore times from the Play Store. Incidentally, the HDFC Securities app also requests permission to query all packages. Angel One did not respond to the queries sent by Mint, while HDFC Securities declined to comment.

Also read | ITR filing for FY 2024-25: What has changed and what you need to know

For context, Google Play regards the list of installed apps on a users device as personal and sensitive information, and using this permission is only permitted if the app in question needs this for its core functionality. If your app does not meet the requirements for acceptable use, you must remove it from your app's manifest in order to comply with Play policy," Google says on its support page for Android.

Theres another way apps can see which other apps a user has installed, according to Pea Bee, a blogger who digs up such info about Indian websites and apps. The blogger said some developers simply list the names of specific apps they wish to track in their manifest file. According to his research, a certain broking app has the names of 72 other apps in its manifest file. A manifest file is like a blueprint for an app. It's an XML file that tells the Android system everything it needs to know about an app before it can run any of the app's code.

For clarity, none of these permissions (including contact access) are required to carry out stockbroking operations or, for that matter, opening an account.

View Full Image (Mint Graphics)

The basics: Camera, microphone, location

Most apps ask for access to the camera, microphone and location since they are required to open an account. Apart from Zerodha, all other apps ask for camera and microphone access primarily for the onboarding process. Zerodha does not ask for these permissions as its onboards clients on the web and later gives them access to the app.

To be sure, users can opt out of these permissions after the KYC is completed, but cyber expert Smit Kotadiya said few people are tech-savvy enough to dig through the settings and disable these themselves.

Additional permissions

However, most brokers ask for more permissions than these. For instance, Share.Market by PhonePe asks for contact access, which it says is used exclusively for the referral program, allowing users to easily identify and connect with friends they have invited".

M-Stock by Mirae ask for access to your Google Calendar. This is optional and is for those who wish to track critical economic events such as earnings calls, IPOs, trading holidays, etc."

Bajaj Broking asks for access to read audio files from shared storage and read image files from shared storage'. The company did not reply to questions sent by Mint.

Also read: This Pune resident saved 10 lakh in tax by transferring pension fund to NPS

Apps such as Groww also offer UPI integration, and ask for camera and SMS access for payment functionality. A camera is required if a user wants to scan QR codes, while SMS and telephone access are needed to comply with NPCI regulations.

Kotadiya said, In Indias mobile-first financial ecosystem, trading apps are now essential, but they often request far more access than is necessary. Permissions like camera, microphone, location, storage, and contacts are commonly requested, even though the core function of trading appsbuying and selling stocksrarely requires these."

Angel One, Upstox, Fyers, ICICI Securities, Kotak Securities, HDFC Securities, Dhan, Sahi, Paytm Money and 5 Paisa did not reply to Mints queries.

What does Sebi say?

Yogesh Chande, a securities lawyer and a partner with Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas, said, Sebi requires clients of stockbrokers to fill in certain details in the account opening form prescribed by Sebi and stock exchanges. The account opening form is a mandatory document and a client is required to familiarise himself/herself with all the provisions in it."

However, additional clauses or documents specified by a stockbroker are non-mandatory and can be obtained from the client subject to the terms and conditions accepted by the client," Chande added.

While the details provided by clients are to be kept confidential and cannot be shared with any person, a stockbroker is allowed to disclose information about his clients with any person only with the 'express permission' of the client  for example, to cross-sell," he said.

Stricter rules for AMCs

The rules are stricter for asset management companies (AMCs). In November 2023, Sebi ordered an AMC to stop seeking access to users' location and contacts via their apps, saying this violated guidelines by the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) sharing data and was against the spirit of investor privacy. Mint reported in October 2023 that Navi Mutual Fund restricted access to their app if users did not share their contacts and location.

The practice of mandatorily seeking the permission of investors to access location and contact data on their device by a mobile application, which enables transactions in mutual fund units, does not comply with the letter and spirit of the said guidelines," said Sebi in a letter to AMFI, which Mint has seen.

Shivaang Maheshwari, a lawyer who specialises in financial regulations, said, "The regulatory framework for AMCs has a more restrictive stance on the use of client data for cross-selling compared to stock brokers. For instance, Sebi expressly prohibits the sharing of user data between group entities managing multiple businesses or products, and also bars the cross-marketing of group company products using such data. No similar explicit restrictions apply to stock brokers, and they often share clients' data with group companies."

Data protection law in limbo

Sandeep Parekh, managing partner at Finsec Law Advisors, said, Sebi probably hasn't implemented privacy laws in the securities markets because the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act and associated rules are yet to fully come into effect. (Though the law officially took effect in 2023, the rules are yet to be finalised, so it has not yet implemented.) Once this happens, the current free-for-all will stop. Intermediaries should be fully ready to implement the act and rules. Entities must seek user consent, limit data usage, and maintain data accuracy and security. Cross-selling and third-party sharing will be strictly on an informed consent basis and not an omnibus approval."

Sebi did not reply to Mints emailed queries.

Sneaky tactics exploit consent fatigue

Isha Suri, an independent researcher and an AI and market power fellow at the European AI Society Fund, said under the DPDP Act, 2023, apps must follow a policy of data minimisation, meaning they should only request the bare minimum data thats required for running the app.

She added that some apps also use underhanded tactics to get consent from users. These include things like dark patterns, constant pop-ups, and jargon to nudge users into providing certain permissions. Companies know there is consent fatigue, and it remains to be seen how the data protection act deals with this once it comes into effect."

How can such data be misused?

Kotadiya said, The biggest risk with giving out personal data is that we never know what the owners of the apps are doing with it. While legitimate stock apps haven't been directly tied to permission misuse, fraudulent one such as HiBox (which allegedly cheated Indian investors of 500 crore in 2024) and apps associated with pig butchering scams have used excessive permissions to exploit users. Even trusted brokerages arent immune. Two big Indian stockbroking firm recent suffered data breaches, raising concerns about how collected data is secured."

Also read: Worried about volatility? Here's where to put your money in uncertain times.

Pea Bee added, Data from installed apps can be used to profile users and analyse their behaviour to show targeted ads, implement dynamic pricing, or even set personal loan rates. In some cases, this data may also be sold to third-party data brokers."

Babu Lal, a digital advocate who exposes fraudulent apps on social media, said, app permissions are often necessary for core features, like sending an SMS to set up UPI, accessing the camera for online KYC, or uploading ID documents from the gallery. "Genuine developers typically request these permissions only to enable such functionality. But not all apps play fair. Some permissions are just 'nice to have', not essential. Before granting any, always ask yourself if it is truly needed," he added.

How can you minimise your data exposure?

Unfortunately, Kotadiya said, not much can be done. He said while some permissions can be disabled, others can't. He recommended that users switch from data-hungry apps to those that require minimal permissions.

Pea Bee said, Data of installed apps can be accessed without the user's permission. However it's important to carefully review certain permissions, such as read SMS or read call logs, before installing an app. Some apps ask for permissions that are not necessary for their core functionality. Users should be cautious and only grant permissions that are clearly justified."
Indians typically view the US as a land of opportunity. In todays interconnected world, in which global mobility is the norm, more Indians then ever before have ties to the US  not just through family, but business, financial, and other interests as well.

Indians with relatives who are US citizens or based on the US face unique and complex US estate and tax planning rules, and ignorance around these often leads to high taxes and penalties. Careful planning is thus essential to minimise potential tax liabilities. That's because Indians who own US assets may be subject to US estate taxes regardless of their citizenship or residency status, even if they live outside the US.

'US persons' (i.e., US citizens and resident aliens) are subject to gift, estate, and generation-skipping transfer taxes on their assets worldwide. Those who aren't US citizens first have to determine whether they are considered a resident alien or a nonresident alien. This depends on factors such as time spent in the US, visa status, personal connections and so on. This is important since nonresident aliens are only subject to gift and estate taxes on assets located in the US (called US situs assets).

Also read | Block assessment 2.0: A sharper, fairer tax enforcement framework

Non-resident aliens (NRAs) are typically Indian citizens who temporarily live in the US and do not intend to make it their permanent home. Typically, most of their wealth is located outside the US. However, they are subject to specific gift and estate taxes on their US-based assets such as real estate, stocks in US companies, etc.

There is a generous US gift and estate tax exemption of $13.99 million (as of 2025), which is not available to NRAs. The exemption for NRAs is limited to $60,000. This is a very insignificant sum for high-net-worth individuals who own US stocks and real estate. Without adequate planning, they may end up paying high taxes in the US. India does not have an estate tax treaty with the US, so such are not creditable back in India.

Benefits of US life insurance

While appropriate planning and structuring can help mitigate gift and estate taxes (and one must consult a tax expert for this), it's important to note that for life insurance policies issues to NRAs by US companies, any transfers during their lifetime and the payment of death benefits are generally exempt from US estate taxes.

Also read: Why do some stockbrokers want to access your contacts, calendar and other apps?

There are some Indian exchange control nuances that need to be met before buying such policies, but using US life insurance to address estate tax disparities is worth exploring.

Life insurance offers several advantages in estate planning for NRAs:

Covering estate taxes: US-denominated life insurance can provide the liquidity necessary to cover estate taxes, helping to preserve the estates value without the need to liquidate assets.

US-denominated life insurance can provide the liquidity necessary to cover estate taxes, helping to preserve the estates value without the need to liquidate assets. Portfolio diversification and risk mitigation: Permanent whole life insurance policies build cash value at a guaranteed rate and are considered conservative financial products. The US-denominated cash value may serve as a hedge against economic downturns, fluctuating exchange rates, and geopolitical risks in the policyholder's home country.

Permanent whole life insurance policies build cash value at a guaranteed rate and are considered conservative financial products. The US-denominated cash value may serve as a hedge against economic downturns, fluctuating exchange rates, and geopolitical risks in the policyholder's home country. Asset protection: Life insurance policies are typically protected from creditors and bankruptcy, offering additional protection for foreign nationals assets.

Life insurance policies are typically protected from creditors and bankruptcy, offering additional protection for foreign nationals assets. Business succession: For business owners, a buy-sell plan funded by life insurance can ensure a smooth transition of the business in case of death.

Unlike US citizens and residents, who often transfer policy ownership to an irrevocable trust, NRAs can directly own a US life insurance policy without triggering estate taxes on the death benefit. Nonetheless, Indian nationals in the US whose family members, especially children, elect or aspire to be US citizens can make an irrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT) the owner and beneficiary of their US life insurance policy.

Also read: This Pune resident saved 10 lakh in tax by transferring pension fund to NPS
In a briefing on Operation Sindoor, India informed the media that the joint military operation targeting Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) lasted around 25 minutes in the early hours of Wednesday, May 7. The strikes began at 1:05 am and concluded by 1:30 am. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi led the briefing.

Col Sofiya Qureshi said the nine targets hit during Operation Sindoor were chosen based on intelligence inputs. She said "no military installation were targeted in the Indian strikes against terror. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said the locations were chosen to avoid civilian infrastructure and damage to civilians.

Responding to the misinformation circulated by Pakistan on the deaths of civilians, Col Sofiya Qureshi clarified that till now, there are no reports of civilian casualties in Pakistan following the Operation Sindoor.
The launch of "Operation Sindoor" by the Indian Army has brought a sense of "justice" for the families of the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians. Asvari Jagdale, daughter of Pahalgam victim Santosh Jagdale, couldnt hold back her tears when she learned about the strikes.

Speaking to ANI, Ms Jagdale said, "We were crying with happiness. (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi has taken revenge, and the way the operation was named, our tears wouldnt stop. Those sisters whose sindoor (symbol of marital status) was erased by these terrorists  India has struck them at nine locations. It feels truly different, and our tears of joy just wont stop."



Sanjay Dwivedi, father of Shubham Dwivedi, exuded confidence in the BJP-led dispensation. "I am continuously watching the news. I salute the Indian Army and thank PM Modi for listening to the pain of the countrys people. I thank the military for destroying terrorism flourishing in Pakistan. My entire family has been feeling light since we heard this news," the father said.



Uncle of Madhusdhan Rao, a software engineer expressed mixed emotions of grief and relief: My nephew Somishetti Madhusudhan Rao, who died in the Pahalgam terror attacks, will find peace today. His death has deeply disturbed us over the past two weeks. The latest lightning strikes by India on terrorist camps in Pakistan have brought us some solace."

The widow of Kaustubh Ganbote hailed the name of Operation Sindoor and asserted that by taking the military action, they have "respected the women."



Read | Ajai Rai, who sparked row with 'nimbu-mirchi on Rafale' remark, congratulates Indian Army

"The action taken by the military is good, and by naming it as Operation Sindoor, they have respected the women. I still cry some days. We were waiting for PM Modi to take such action, and he has given them a befitting reply. Terrorists should be eliminated," Ganbote said.



Read | Operation Sindoor: India targets headquarters of terror outfits JeM, LeT, Hizbul after Pahalgam terror attack

Meanwhile, locals in Jammu raised slogans of 'Indian Army Zindabad' and 'Bharat Mata ki Jai', applauding the Indian Army.

"It was very important for the government to give a response to the attack made by Pakistan. We are really thankful to the government and the Indian Army," a local told ANI.
Operation Sindoor: Pakistan's National Security Council on Wednesday said the country's armed forces have been duly authorised to undertake retaliation at a time, place, and manner of its choosing to avenge the loss of innocent Pakistani lives in Indian military strikes.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif presided over the National Security Council (NSC) meeting, which was attended by cabinet ministers, chief ministers, all services chiefs and senior officers to discuss the situation.

Read our coverage of Operation Sindoor

Indian armed forces early Wednesday carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor.

An NSC statement warned that in consonance with Article-51 of the UN Charter, Pakistan reserves the right to respond, in self-defence, at a time, place, and manner of its choosing to avenge the loss of innocent Pakistani lives in the Indian strikes.

The Armed Forces of Pakistan have duly been authorised to undertake corresponding actions in this regard, the NSC statement said.

Sharif is set to hold a cabinet meeting and share details with the nation through his address in the parliament.

The NSC meeting described the strikes as Indias unprovoked and unlawful act of war and said the NSC unequivocally condemned what it called as the blatant violations of Pakistans sovereignty and territorial integrity, which manifestly constitutes acts of war under international law, the statement said.

Also Read | VIDEO | Indian Army releases footages of Op Sindoor on Pak camps

The deliberate targeting of civilians, including innocent women and children, by the Indian military constitutes a heinous and shameful crime that is in violation of all norms of human behaviour and the provisions of international law, it said.

The NSC called upon the international community to recognise the gravity of Indias unprovoked illegal actions and to hold it accountable for its blatant violations of international norms and laws, the statement added.

The statement further said, the Indian strike deliberately targetted the civilian areas, on the false pretext of presence of imaginary terrorist camps, resulting in the deaths of innocent men, women, and children, and causing damage to the civilian infrastructure, including mosques, it said.

The NSC statement further claimed that Indias strikes also caused grave danger to commercial airlines belonging to Gulf countries, endangering the lives of thousands of on-board passengers.

Besides, the Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower project was also deliberately targeted in violation of international conventions, it claimed.

After the NSC meeting was over, it was announced that Sharif will hold a cabinet meeting at 3:30 pm to further discuss the developments. Later, he would share the decisions regarding the ongoing tension with the nation through his address in the parliament, officials said.

Earlier, the Pakistan army said that at least 26 people were killed and 46 injured in the Indian strikes launched shortly after midnight on cities in the Punjab province and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Operation Sindoor was launched in retaliation for the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 26 people. Citing cross-border linkages to the horrific attack, India has promised severe punishment to those involved in the strike.

The NSC statement said that Pakistan emphatically rejected Indian allegations claiming the presence of terrorist camps on its territory. It said, Pakistan had made a sincere offer for a credible, transparent and neutral investigation in the April 22 attacks, which unfortunately was not accepted.
Hours after India conducted military strikes on terror hotbeds in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said Islamabad was ready to wrap the tensions between the two countries if India backs down.

Emphasising that his country won't hesitate to respond if India attacks, the Pakistani minister told Bloomberg Television, We have been saying all along in the last fortnight that well never initiate anything hostile towards India. But if we're attacked, we'll respond.

If India backs down, we will definitely wrap up this tension, he said.

Operation Sindoor Asif's statement comes after the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor, a joint military action targeting the terrorist infrastructure in nine locations of Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Operation Sindoor comes weeks after the deadly Pahalgam attack that claimed 26 lives.

Following the military strikes, India informed in a media briefing on Operation Sindoor that the joint military operation lasted nearly 25 minutes. The briefing was led by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi.

The strikes began at 1:05 am and ended by 1:30 am on Wednesday, May 7. The nine locations struck during Operation Sindoor were chosen based on intelligence inputs, Col Sofiya Qureshi said. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh stated that these locations were selected to avoid civilian infrastructure.

Also Read | Masood Azhar says Indias strikes in Bahawalpur killed his 10 family members

US steps in Meanwhile, US Charge dAffaires Natalie Baker met Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to initiate talks regarding de-escalation of tensions with India, PTI reported.

The US Charge dAffaires conveyed the US desire for de-escalation and that it will stay engaged with both countries on the evolving situation, the PTI report quoted Pakistan's Foreign Ministry as saying.

We are reaching out to both parties and, of course, telling them to not escalate the situation, US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said, as per the report.

Secretary Rubio believes diplomacy must take the lead, Bruce said, noting that the secretary has also encouraged other national leaders and foreign ministers to reach out to the countries on this issue.
Muzaffarabad, Pakistan/New Delhi: India attacked Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Wednesday and Pakistan said it had shot down five Indian fighter jets in the worst fighting in more than two decades between the nuclear-armed enemies.

India said it struck nine Pakistani "terrorist infrastructure" sites, some of them linked to an attack by Islamist militants on Hindu tourists that killed 26 people in Indian Kashmir last month. Islamabad said six Pakistani locations were targeted, with eight people killed.

Indian forces attacked the headquarters of Islamist militant groups Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba, an Indian defence source told Reuters.

"India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution," the Indian defence ministry said in a statement.

Pakistan said Indian missiles hit three sites and a military spokesperson told Reuters five Indian aircraft had been shot down, a claim not confirmed by India.

"All of these engagements have been done as a defensive measure," military spokesperson Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said. "Pakistan remains a very responsible state. However, we will take all the steps necessary for defending the honour, integrity and sovereignty of Pakistan, at all cost."

Islamabad called the assault a "blatant act of war" and said it had informed the U.N. Security Council that Pakistan reserved the right to respond appropriately to Indian aggression.

The nuclear-armed South Asian neighbours also exchanged intense shelling and heavy gunfire across much of their de facto border in the Himalayan region of Kashmir, police and witnesses told Reuters.

India and Pakistan have fought two wars since 1947 over Muslim-majority Kashmir, which both sides claim in full and control in part.

Since a 2003 ceasefire, to which both countries recommitted in 2021, targeted strikes between the neighbours are extremely rare, especially Indian strikes on Pakistani areas outside PoK.

But analysts said the risk of escalation is higher than in the recent past due to the severity of India's attack, which New Delhi called "Operation Sindoor".

U.S. President Donald Trump called the situation "a shame" and added, "I hope it ends quickly."

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for maximum military restraint from both countries, a spokesperson said.

Smoke, fire A Pakistani military spokesperson said eight people had been killed in the Indian strikes, 35 were injured and two were missing.

The Pakistani army's shelling across the frontier in Kashmir killed three civilians, the Indian army said.

Indian TV channels showed videos of explosions, fire, large plumes of smoke in the night sky and people fleeing in several places in Pakistan and PoK. Reuters could not independently verify the footage.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Islamabad was responding to the Indian attacks but did not provide details. Pakistan's populous province of Punjab declared an emergency, its chief minister said, and hospitals and emergency services were on high alert.

A Pakistani military spokesperson told broadcaster Geo that two mosques were among the sites hit by India. The Pakistani defence minister told Geo that all the sites were civilian and not militant camps.

He said India's claim of targeting "camps of terrorists is false".

After India's strikes, the Indian army said in a post on X on Wednesday: "Justice is served."

Stock futures, airlines impacted A spokesperson for the Indian Embassy in Washington told Reuters that evidence pointed "towards the clear involvement of Pakistan-based terrorists in this terror attack," referring to the April tourist killings.

India said two of three suspects in that attack were Pakistani nationals but had not detailed its evidence. Pakistan denied that it had anything to do with the April killings.

News of the strikes impacted Indian stock futures mildly, with the GIFT NIFTY at 24,311, 0.3% below the NIFTY 50's last close of 24,379.6 on Tuesday.

Several airlines including India's largest airline, IndiGo, Air India and Qatar Airways canceled flights in areas of India and Pakistan due to closures of airports and airspace

Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval spoke to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other senior Indian officials briefed counterparts in Britain, Russia, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, an Indian source told Reuters.

The Indian strike goes far beyond New Delhi's response to previous attacks in Kashmir blamed on Pakistan. Those include India's 2019 air strike on Pakistan after 40 Indian paramilitary police were killed in Kashmir and India's retaliation for the deaths of 18 soldiers in 2016.

"Given the scale of the Indian strike, which was far greater than what we saw in 2019, we can expect a sizable Pakistani response," said Michael Kugelman, a Washington-based South Asia analyst and writer for the Foreign Policy magazine.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday chaired a meet with Chief Ministers, DCPs, Chief Secretaries of states bordering Pakistan and Nepal after Operation Sindoor which took place at midnight targetting nine terror camps in Pakistan and PoK, ANI reported. This comes in the wake of Pahalgam attack which claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists, on April 22.

Who all attended the meeting held by Amit Shah? Chief ministers, chief secretaries and Director General of Police of Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, Punjab, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Sikkim, Bihar and West Bengal, besides Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh attended the meet, PTI reported citing sources.

Amit Shah on Operation Sindoor "Proud of our armed forces. Operation Sindoor is Bharat's response to the brutal killing of our innocent brothers in Pahalgam. The Modi government is resolved to give a befitting response to any attack on India and its people. Bharat remains firmly committed to eradicating terrorism from its roots," Shah said.

Shah has ordered chiefs of all Central Armed Police Forces to call back their personnel who are on leave. He assessed the internal security situation in the country and directed the top security officials to be on alert and keep a strict vigil, the report added.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh met all chiefs of armed forces after India hit terror hotbeds in Pak and PoK, ANI reported citing sources.

At 10:30 am, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh stated the names and details of the sites targetted from 1 am to 1:30 am on the intervening night of May 6-7. The Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri mentioned that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an aim to undermine the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir.

Also Read | Will Operation Sindoor impact IPL matches Dharamshala?
Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Wednesday directed police officials to detain Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals residing illegally in the state, reported PTI.

Reddy also ordered police officials to remain on high alert, implement security measures at all Army and Navy offices, and enhance security at all defence establishments in the city, amid the successful conduct of the Indian armed forces 'Operation Sindoor'.

Also Read | India on high alert for cyber attacks after Operation Sindoor

After reviewing a meeting in the state capital, Reddy instructed officials to cancel the leaves of employees of all departments engaged in emergency services, step up surveillance, and enhance security in all district headquarters and sensitive areas.

According to an official release, the state government has decided to hold a rally on Thursday in support of the Indian Army, which will be attended by the CM and his cabinet colleagues.

Among other things, the Telangana CM directed the officials to tighten security at all foreign consulates in Hyderabad and enhance security measures at all IT companies. Reddy also asked officials to keep an eye on the movements of history sheeters and old criminals.

Detain Pakistan and Bangladesh nationals: "The CM ordered police officials to detain Pakistan and Bangladesh nationals who are residing illegally. A communication system should be established in the command and control centre. Strict action will be taken against those who disturb peace and security," the release said.

Also Read | Ex-UK PM Rishi Sunak supports India over Operation Sindoor

He emphasised that the entire nation should send a strong message of support for the Indian Army and that political parties should maintain restraint during difficult times.

The official release directed the officials to stockpile blood in blood banks and medicines for emergency needs. Information related to the availability of beds in private hospitals should be updated periodically, and coordination with the Red Cross should be strengthened. Food stocks should also be made sufficient.

Not only this, the release mentioned that all the foreign trips of the ministers and officials should be cancelled and stringent action to be taken against those spreading fake news.

Special cell formation: In a separate release, the state government directed the officials to form a special cell to curb misinformation, and asked the state intelligence teams to coordinate with the central intelligence agency. The release stated that a special information center will be established to closely monitor the security system from the Command Control Center.

The Chief Minister enquired the officials about the arrangements being made for the supply of essential commodities and asked them to take every step to avoid shortage of essential commodities and no disruption in the supply chain to the people, the second release said.

The CM also directed the police to intensify patrolling in certain areas of the city and remain on high alert. Earlier in the day Revanth Reddy and Deputy CM Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka reviewed the situation after 'Operation Sindoor' and Mock Drill.
Indian armed forces carried out precision strikes at terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the government said on early Wednesday morning . In all, 9 strikes have been targetted, the government said in the statement calling it Operation Sindoor.

'"Our actions have been focussed, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targetted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in slecetion of targets and method of execution," he government said conducted strikes on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed, India's Ministry of Defence said.

The strike comes days after Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people, mostly tourists were killed in Jammu and Kashmir's hill station.

Defence ministry confirmed the srtikes. Justice is served. Jai Hind!," Indian Army said in a post on X.

Operation Sindoor These steps come in the wake of the barbaric Pahalgam terrorist attack in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were murdered. We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable. There will be detailed briefing on OPERATION SINDOOR, later today, the government release read.

Pakistan's response The Pakistan military's media arm, Inter-Services Public Relations, said India has "struck three places from the air"  Bhawalpur in Pakistan's Punjab Province as well as Kotli and Muzaffarabad in Pak Occupied Kashmir. The ISPR said all the strikes were conducted from Indian airspace and Pakistan would respond at a time and place of its choosing.

Muridke is the headquarters of the Lashkar-e-Taiba, which is believed to be behind the Pahalgam attack, and Bahawalpur is the base of the Masood Azhar-led Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said attacks were carried out in five locations and that the country "retains the right to respond forcefully". Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said called India's military strikes an unprovoked and blatant act of war.
India-Pak Tensions: Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif visited the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) headquarters in Islamabad on 6 April, Tuesday.

Sharif was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, news agency PTI reported, quoting state-run Radio Pakistan.

Also Read | Modi cancelled Kashmir visit 3 days before Pahalgam after getting intel: Kharge

The services chiefs  Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar  were part of the visiting team, according to a group photo released on the occasion.

The picture also showed ISI Director General Lt Gen Muhammad Asim Malik  who was recently appointed as the countrys national security adviser  and the militarys media spokesperson, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry.

The high-level visit comes nearly a week after Pakistan said it expected a military action by India in the wake of a deadly attack in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam that killed 26 people, mostly tourists. India has implied cross-border linkages of the attackers. Pakistan has rejected the claim.

The visit entailed a detailed briefing on the prevailing security environment, with a particular focus on preparedness for conventional threat from India in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack. "The leadership was apprised of regional security developments and the evolving threat matrix, including conventional military options, hybrid warfare tactics, and terrorist proxies, a press statement from the Pakistan Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said.

The prime minister and accompanying officials underscored the imperative of heightened national vigilance, seamless inter-agency coordination, and reinforced operational readiness to deter and decisively respond to any violation of Pakistans sovereignty and territorial integrity, the statement said.

Prime Minister Sharif lauded ISI's critical role in safeguarding national interests and enabling informed national security decision-making under complex and dynamic conditions.

Sharif was quoted as saying that entire nation was behind Pakistan's Armed Forces. The leadership reaffirmed Pakistans resolve to defend the homeland against all threats, the statement said.

What happened in Pahalgam? The Pahalgam terrorist attack was carried out in the fabled Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam on April 22, a day when United States Vice President JD Vance was in India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on a state visit to Saudi Arabia.

India, blaming Pakistan, responded by deciding to shut the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari in Amritsar along the India-Pakistan border in Punjab immediately. India also decided to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, among other measures.

The leadership was apprised of regional security developments and the evolving threat matrix.

The decisions to downgrade diplomatic ties with Pakistan in view of cross-border links to the Pahalgam terrorist attack were taken in the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 23.
UN chief calls for military restraint from India, Pakistan

Xinhua) 13:54, May 07, 2025

UNITED NATIONS, May 6 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday called for military restraint from India and Pakistan.

In a note to correspondents issued by his spokesperson, the UN chief expressed deep concern over Indian military operations across the Line of Control and the international border with Pakistan.

"The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan," the note said.

On Monday, the secretary-general warned that the tensions between the two South Asian neighbors had reached "their highest in years."

He offered his good offices to both governments to help defuse tensions and promote diplomacy, stressing that "a military solution is no solution."

Guterres once again strongly condemned the terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22. "Targeting civilians is unacceptable -- and those responsible must be brought to justice through credible and lawful means," he said.

Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following a deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam in the Indian-controlled Kashmir on April 22.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
Operation Sindoor: A major counter-terrorism move was launched by the Indian Armed Forces, named Operation Sindoor in the wee hours of Wednesday, May 7. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had been constantly monitoring the latest counter-terrorism response on Pakistan after the barbaric Pahalgam attack, sources informed ANI. As many as nine sites were struck in the operation, in which terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) were the prime targets.

Defence Ministry's official statement

Sources familiar with the matter said that the Indian forces successfully targeted all nine targets. The Indian Armed Forces targeted the specific locations with the intent of targeting top Jaish-e-Muhammed and Lashkar leadership for their role in sponsoring terrorist activities in India.

Defence Ministry's official statement dated May 7 said, Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution.

This counter-terrorism move comes in response to the "barbaric" Pahalgam terrorist attack, in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were killed, the statement added. In Operation Sindoor, strike weapons of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force were deployed, while the coordinates for the attacks were provided by intelligence agencies.

We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable, India's statement noted.

Consistent violation of ceasefire agreement Pakistani troops violated the ceasefire agreement by firing artillery along Jammu and Kashmir's Bhimber Gali area, hours after Operation Sindoor. In response, the Indian Army acted "appropriately in a calibrated manner," officials informed ANI. Pakistan has been consistently violating the ceasefire agreement despite strict warnings from India.
Operation Sindoor: Pahalgam terror attack martyr Vinay Narwal's wife, Himanshi Narwal, thanked the Indian government for Operation Sindoor. However, she requested the government not to end it here and make sure that this is the start of the end of terrorism.

My husband was in the defence forces and he wanted to protect the peace, protect the innocent lives. He wanted to make sure that there is no hatred and terror in this country. I am thankful to the government, but I request them not to end it here. I want them to make sure that this is just the start of the end of terrorism in our country, Himanshi Narwal told PTI.

Himanshi Narwal's husband  Vinay Narwal  who was a Lieutenant in the Navy, was among the 26 killed in the deadly terror attacks that shook Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22.

Navy officer Vinay Narwal and Himanshi had tied the knot just days before the terror attack and were in Kashmir for their honeymoon when the tragedy unfurled.

Indian military's Operation Sindoor Days after the Pahalgam attacks, the Indian military launched Operation Sindoor in the wee hours of Wednesday, striking nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

The Indian Army has released images of Operation Sindoor.

Hailed as the Indian militarys most far-reaching operation yet, Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, marks the first time since the Army, Navy, and Air Force have come together for a united operation since the 1971 war.

Himanshi Narwal trolled Earlier, the National Commission for Women (NCW) had strongly disapproved of how Himanshi Narwal had been treated on social media, following her comments about the Pahalgam attack.

The NCW stated that "trolling a woman on the basis of her ideological expression or personal life is not acceptable in any form".

Himanshi Narwal faced massive flak from social media users after she urged people not to spread hatred in the name of religion or be hostile towards Muslims or Kashmiris.

What did Himanshi Narwal say? In her first public remarks since the attack, Himanshi Narwal had appealed to the nation not to be hostile towards Muslims or Kashmiris. "I want the entire country to pray for him (Vinay), that wherever he is, he has found peace. That is all I ask," she said.

"There is something else I wish to say. I see hatred growing, directed at Muslims and Kashmiris. We do not want this. We only wish for peacenothing else," Himanshi said.
Amid heavy shelling from the Pakistani army along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), residents were forced to shift from areas located near the LoC to safer locations.

Panic and fear gripped border villages in Rajouri, Poonch and other J&K districts after unprovoked artillery and mortar shelling from Pakistan late last night, reports said.

Some residents reportedly spent the night in bulletproof bunkers.

WATCH VIDEO

They started firing at 2:45 AM. We were asleep when we suddenly heard the noise. Our children woke up, scared and worried. None of us had breakfast or tea, said Yasir Iqbal, a resident of Niyakapani village in Rajouri, according to news agency ANI.

People are worried. Those fortunate enough to have found a bunker are inside, lying down. But they have no means to buy food, Iqbal added.

The residents were exhausted and helpless. The government provided bunkers, the ANI report said citing Sarpanch Abdul Hussain from Neaqa village.

At least 15 people, including four children, were killed and 43 others injured as the Pakistan Army resorted to heavy artillery and mortar shelling on forward villages along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, Defence officials said.

The shelling from across the border was intense till Wednesday noon and later continued intermittently, mostly restricting to the Poonch sector.

Earlier, a defence spokesman said during the intervening night of May 6 and 7, the Pakistan Army resorted to arbitrary firing, including artillery shelling, from posts across the LoC and International Border in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Indian Army said that it is responding in a proportionate manner to the unprovoked aggression.

Also Read | Bloodbath In Pakistans Stock Market While Indian Markets Remain Stable

Operation Sindoor The intense shelling from across the border started shortly after Indian armed forces carried out missile attacks under Operation Sindoor at nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK).

India launched airstrikes to avenge the April 22 terror attack in south Kashmirs Pahalgam that had left 26 civilians dead.

Earlier on Wednesday, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Col Sofiya Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh briefed the media about Operation Sindoor.

Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said that Operation Sindoor was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families.

Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said.

During the briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from Muridke, where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training.
New Delhi: The Centre has put the countrys key energy assets along the Pakistan border in Gujaratincluding the worlds largest solar power park at Khavda, and the worlds biggest oil refinery at Jamnagaron high alert, along with increasing the security at these facilities.

The security at energy installations along the Pakistan border, including Khavda RE park and Jamnagar refinery are already at high alert and security has been further tightened, said a person aware of the development on condition of anonymity.

Khavda is touted to be the worlds largest renewable energy park with a cumulative capacity of 45 GW, with Adani Green developing the largest share of 30 GW. The other developers in the park include state-run NTPC and Gujarat Industries Power Company (GIPC).

The project, in Kutch area of Gujarat, is just 1 km away from the India-Pakistan border and falls under the jurisdiction of the Border Security Force (BSF).

Also read | Operation Sindoor: The IAF has struck terror camps in Pakistan Jamnagar oil refinery is also under high alert as the area has an airbase and is a no-fly zone for civilian aircraft. The refinery is owned and operated by Reliance Industries, and is the largest and most complex single-site refinery in the world with 1.4 million barrels per day (MMBPD) crude processing capacity and a complexity index of 21.1the highest in the world.

The refinery is also a major exporter of petroleum products from India. Another person aware of the matter said that security at the refinery has been heightened and it is under constant vigil.

Queries mailed to the Union ministry of home affairs, Adani Group, NTPC and Reliance Industries remained unanswered till press time.

Multifold approach needed Simarpreet Singh, executive director & CEO of Hartek Group, a renewable energy EPC company, said: Safeguarding renewable energy resources requires a robust and multifold approach. This includes extensive physical security such as perimeter fencing, surveillance, staffing, and practical vertical security alongside cyber security."

Singh added that also equally critical are avoiding prolonged response times, layering with insurance policies to manage fiscal exposure, and regular safety drills.

What goes beyond the supply of electricity is the enduring and unwavering response supported by strong infrastructure that is built, keeping in mind, geopolitical unpredictability, he added.

Also read | Operation Sindoor jitters fade: Nifty, Sensex script a resilient green run There are three Indian Air Force bases  Jamnagar, Naliya and Bhuj  within a radius of 50 km and the area is under high alert. Further, the Jamnagar airport is also closed, along with 24 other airports as per NOTAM (Notice To Airmen) issued by the government till 9 May.

The preparedness has been enhanced after the Indian armed forces carried out targeted strikes on nine terror-linked sites under Operation Sindoor early on Wednesday.

The operation came as a response to terrorist attacks in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir that killed 26 people, including a Nepali citizen.

Mock drills have also been carried out across major cities to test emergency response systems in hospitals, schools, and government offices.

As of 1 April 2025, Adani Green, which has a cumulative operational renewable capacity of over 14 GW, commissioned around 5 GW at Khavda.
Operation Sindoor: Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that India launched Operation Sindoor on Pakistan early on Wednesday morning, exercising its right to respond to the Pahalgam terror attack and preempt as well as deter more such cross-border attacks.

These actions were measured, non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible. They focused on dismantling the terrorist infrastructure and disabling terrorists likely to be sent across to India, Misri said at a press conference.

Indian armed forces carried out precision strikes at terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the government said early Wednesday morning. In all, 9 areas have been targeted, the government said in the statement, codenaming the strike Operation Sindoor.

The strike comes two weeks after the 22 April Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed in Jammu and Kashmir's popular hill station.

The attack in Pahalgam was marked by extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots from close range and in front of their families. Family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of the killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message, Mirsi said.

He said the attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Jammu and Kashmir and designed, in particular, to impact the mainstay of the economy, tourism, with a record 23 million tourists visiting the Kashmir Valley in 2024.

Despite a fortnight having passed since the attacks, there has been no demonstrable step from Pakistan to take action against the terrorist infrastructure on its territory or on territory under its control, Misri said.

Instead, all it has indulged in are denials and allegations. Our intelligence monitoring of Pakistan-based terrorist modules indicated that further attacks against India were impending. There was thus a compulsion both to deter and to preempt, Misri said.

Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi also accompanied Misri at the Press Conferece. The two officers breifed the media about the Indian strikes.

The group calling itself The Resistance Front has claimed responsibility for the attack. This group is a front for the UN-proscribed Pakistani terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba, Misri said.

It is notable that India had given inputs about the TRF in the half-yearly report to the monitoring team of the UN's 1267 Sanctions Committee in May and November 2024, bringing out its role as a cover for Pakistan-based terrorist groups earlier too. In December 2023, India had informed the monitoring team about Lashkar and Jaish-e-Mohammed, operating through small terror groups such as the TRF, he added.

Also Read | Red alert issued in Uttar Pradesh following military strikes in Pakistan, PoK

The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, is behind Tuesday's terrorist attack in Pahalgam's Baisaran, said Misri.

The attack in Pahalgam  a popular tourist destination in South Kashmir's Anantnag district  was carried out on a day when US Vice President JD Vance was in India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on a state visit to Saudi Arabia. Modi cut short his visit and landed in Delhi on Wednesday morning.

Identification of the attackers, based on eyewitness accounts as well as other information available to law enforcement agencies, has also progressed. Our intelligence has developed an accurate picture of the planners and backers of this team, Misri said.

Pakistan's pressure to remove references to TRF in the April 25 UN Security Council press statement is notable in this regard, Misri sid.

Investigations into the Pahalgam terror attack have brought out the communication nodes of terrorists in and to Pakistan. The claims made by The Resistance Front and their reposting by known social media handles of the Lashkar-e-Taiba speak for themselves.

The features of this attack also tie in with Pakistan's long-standing record of perpetrating cross-border attacks on India, which is well documented and beyond question, Misri said.

Pakistan also has a well-deserved reputation as a haven for terrorists from around the world with internationally proscribed terrorists enjoying impunity there, he said.

In addition, Pakistan has been known to willfully mislead the world and international forums such as the Financial Action Task Force on this issue, Misri said.
The death toll from Indian strikes on Pakistan has risen to eight, according to a statement from the Pakistani military on Wednesday.

"In total in at six locations there were 24 impacts in Pakistan. In these 24 impacts eight Pakistanis have been martyred and 35 have been injured and two are missing," Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said, adding one 3-year-old girl was killed in a mosque in Punjab province.

Operation Sindoor The military strikes by India are a part of Operation Sindoor launched by the Indian Armed Forces, targeting terrorist infrastructure in nine locations of Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, India's Ministry of Defence informed in a statement.

A little while ago, the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed, the statement read.

Reacting to the missile strikes, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh wrote on "Bharat Mata Ki Jai" after the terror strikes by India. The Indian Army posted on X and said, "Justice is served. Jai Hind."

Pakistan responds Responding to the attack, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said, "Pakistan has every right to give a befitting reply to this act of war imposed by India, and a strong response is indeed being given, Sharif said in a statement.

As a response to the military strikes, Pakistan initiated artillery fire along the Line of Control in the Bhimber Gali in the Poonch-Rajauri region. The forces are "responding appropriately in a calibrated manner," the Indian Army informed.

Pakistan also claimed it had shot down five planes. Pakistan military spokesperson told news agency Reuters that the country has shot down 3 Rafale planes, 1 SU-30, and 1 Mig-29 being flown by India. There has not been any official confirmation by India on this development so far.
Operation Sindoor Highlights: The Centre has called for an all-party meeting on Thursday, May 8, in the wake of Operation Sindoor which was carried out by the Indian Armed Forces in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

Operation Sindoor: Government shares details

Earlier in the day, the government shared details of 'Operation Sindoor' that was carried out between 1:05 am and 1:30 am. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said Operation Sindoor was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack, that left 26 persons dead.

As part of 'Operation Sindoor', nine terror camps were targeted and successfully destroyed. After India's Operation Sindoor, the US, the UK and China cautioned their citizens against travelling to certain regions in India and Pakistan.

Masood Azhar says family killed

Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Maulana Masood Azhar acknowledged on Wednesday that 10 members of his family and four close associates were killed in India's missile attack on the outfit's headquarters in Bahawalpur.

A statement attributed to Azhar said those killed in the attack on Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur included the JeM chief's elder sister and her husband, a nephew and his wife, another niece, and five children from his extended family.

The blog has been ended.

Find all the latest updates on Operation Sindoor on 8th May 2025 here.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on early Wednesday condemned the Indian missile strikes on terror targets in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Punjab province. Calling the attack an act of war, Shehbaz Sharif said his country has every right to give a befitting reply.

In retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack, Indian armed forces carried out strikes at nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir early Wednesday.

The strikes targeted terrorist infrastructure, according to the Indian Army. These sites were allegedly used to plan and direct attacks against India, the defence ministry said in a statement.

Pakistan Army spokesman Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said the Indian strikes killed at least eight people and injured 35. The attacks hit cities in Punjab and PoK, Geo News reported.

What PM Sharif said According to PM Shehbaz Sharif, India carried out attacks at five places in Pakistan, warning that Islamabad knows how to deal with the enemy.

In a statement following the attack on Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif said, Pakistan has every right to give a befitting reply to this act of war imposed by India, and a strong response is indeed being given.

We will never let the enemy succeed in its nefarious objectives, he added. The Pakistani prime minister also added that his armed forces know very well how to deal with the enemy.

Pakistan has closed its airspace for all air traffic for 48 hours.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar termed the Indian strikes as a flagrant violation of Pakistans sovereignty, the UN Charter & international law.

"It has jeopardised regional peace, he said in a statement on X.

What Pakistan military said Following Indian forces' strike on targeted locations in Pakistan two weeks after the Pahalgam terror attack, Islamabad has said in a statement that it has shot down three Rafale planes, one SU-30 and one MIG-29 flown by India.

The Pakistani military spokesperson also said that Indian planes were shot down while they were in Indian airspace.

This comes a day after United Nations Security Council (UNSC) rebuked Islamabad over its false flag claims following the Pahalgam terror attack, as it raised concerns about the deliberate targeting of tourists based on their religion, news agency ANI quoted sources as saying.
Hours after Indian armed forces took revenge for the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam by destroying nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh of the Indian Air Force and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi of the Indian Army, along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri briefed the nation regarding the missile strikes.

Addressing a press conference in Delhi, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, an officer from the Indian Armys Corps of Signals, mentioned the details of all terror camps which were targeted. She also gave the proof of why they were chosen as targets.

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi made it clear that no Pakistani army camps or common people were targeted or hit.

Here are the details of the 9 terror camps Markaz Taiba camp (Muridke_Pakistan):

Markaz Taiba camp in Muridke Pakistan

Colonel Qureshi said that this camp was 25 km from the international border (IB) and it was the headquarters of the militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

She added that key perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attack  including Ajmal Kasab, the sole gunman who was captured alive after the assault on Indias financial capital  were trained at the camp.

Markaz Subhan Allah camp (Bahawalpur_Pakistan):

Markaz Subhan Allah camp in Bahawalpur Pakistan

Located about 100 km from the IB, this camp was the headquarters of Islamist group Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM). It was used for recruiting, training, and indoctrination, Colonel Qureshi said.

Mehmoona Joya camp (Sialkot_Pakistan):

Mehmoona Joya camp in Sialkot_Pakistan

This camp was a training facility of militant group Hijbul Mujahideen, situated 12 km from the border.

Kotli Gulpur camp (PoJK):

Kotli Gulpur camp in PoJK

This camp was located 30 km from the border, according to the Indian government, and it was a LeT camp. Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi, the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai attack, frequently visited this camp for "indoctrination and motivational speeches".

Sarjal camp (Sialkot_Pakistan):

Sarjal camp in Sialkot_Pakistan

This was the camp from which the perpetrators of an attack in March, which killed four police personnel in Jammu and Kashmir, were trained. The camp was 6 km inside Pakistan.

Abbas camp (Kotli_PoJK):

Abbas camp in Kotli PoJK

Located 13 km from the LoC, the camp was considered as the "nerve centre" for training LeT suicide bombers.

Syed Na Bilal camp (PoJK):

Syedna Bilal camp in PoJK

According to the Indian government, this JeM camp was used to provide weapons' and explosives' training. Here, militants were trained in survival techniques for "terrorist activities" in Kashmir region.

Sawai Nala camp: Located about 30 km from Line of Control, the camp was a key training facility for LeT.

Barnala camp (Bhimber_PoJK):

Barnala camp in Bhimber PoJK

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi stated that this terror facility was used to train militants in weapon handling, improvised explosive device making, and jungle survival techniques. It is located around 9 km away from LOC.
Amid soaring tensions between India and Pakistan, people in some border villages of Punjab have started moving to safer places.

Villagers in Ferozepur district began shifting their belongings even though the Border Security Force, Indian Army, or any government agency has not issued any official evacuation orders yet.

Ferozepur Deputy Commissioner Deepshikha Sharma on Wednesday said that there is no reason for panic in the district, as yet, and neither the army nor the district administration has issued any directive to evacuate border villages.

Tendi Wala, Kalu Wala, Gatti Rajo Ke, Jhugge Hazara, Navi Gatti Rajo Ke, Gatti Rahime Ke, Chandiwala, Basti Bhanewali, Jallo Ke were among the villages from where people were moving to safer areas.

However, in the border villages of Amritsar and Tarn Taran districts, there was no rush to move to a safer place.

What villagers say Villagers said the decision to move, especially women and children, was their own, according to a report by news agency PTI.

Kakku Singh, 63, a native of the Babmha Haji village in the Mamdot area, told PTI that he had come to meet his two daughters who had been married in Kalu Wala  a village surrounded by the Sutlej river from three sides and Pakistan on the fourth.

He wants his daughters and their families to move to his village till the situation becomes normal.

Pachho Bai, 58, from Tendi Wala village, who was seen packing the clothes along with her daughter-in-law, said that she felt concerned because their house is situated just 2 km away from the International Border (IB).

"We are six members in the family. My husband and my son are away at work but we are planning to move soon to the house of a relative," she said.

Bulk buying of grocery items Meanwhile, several people in Amritsar and Batala districts resorted to panic buying of grocery items such as pulses, cooking oil, wheat flour, sugar, and salt.

People were seen queuing up at departmental stores and grocery shops for bulk buying.

Indian armed forces early Wednesday launched missile strikes under Operation Sindoor on nine terror hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base in Muridke.

Former Punjab chief minister and BJP leader Amarinder Singh hailed the Indian strikes on terror camps.

"The country had made it categorically clear that it will not let those responsible for the Pahalgam terror attack go unpunished," he said in a statement.
Operation Sindoor: YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia  who was once at the centre of the massive India's Got Latent row  applauded Indian military for Operation Sindoor. Beer Biceps' latest post comes several hours after India launched the joint military action on terror hotbeds, striking nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Dubbed as Indian militarys most biggest and extensive strike till date, Operation Sindoor  carried out on May 7  is the first time since the 1971 war that the Army, Navy, and Air Force have teamed up for a joint mission. The Defence forces carried out coordinated strikes deep inside Pakistan, aiming to eliminate terror outfits Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba.

ISI and Pakistan military involved in ALL Ranveer Allahbadia claimed that he had created over 50 podcasts with military veterans and geopolitical analysts  all of who highlighted that ISI and the Pakistani military were involved in "ALL" the terrorist attacks that took place in Jammu and Kashmir over the years.

Taking to his Instagram, Ranveer Allahbadia wrote: "Jai Hind. Justice has been served, thanks to our armed forces. Created 50+ podcasts with military veterans & geopolitical analysts. All the guests pointed towards one truth. The ISI & the Pakistani military are involved in ALL the terror attacks that took place in J&K over the years. Our enemy is not the average Pakistani. It is Pakistani terrorists & more importantly, Pakistani military leaders and the ISI."

Taking to his Instagram, Ranveer Allahbadia wrote: 'Jai Hind. Justice has been served, thanks to our armed forces'

Not just about Pahalgam Ranveer Allahbadia continued in his post: "We're looking at the possibility of war at this stage. Nobody on either side of the border wanted the conflict to reach this point. But it's not just about Pahalgam now. It's about years of 'trying to bleed India through a 1000 cuts' (Said by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, former PM & President of Pakistan). The greatest enemy of Ind-Pak peace is the ISI & Pak Military. But both these enemies of peace will now be taught a brutal lesson. Prayers up for our troops."

Operation Sindoor came weeks after the terrorist attack on the tourist resort of Baisaran near Jammu and Kashmir's mini Switzerland Pahalgam, in which 26 civilians were killed on April 22.

The Pahalgam horror was the deadliest attack in India's Jammu and Kashmir after the Pulwama terror attacks in 2019.

Operation Sindoor The Indian Air Force, on Wednesday, targeted the terrorists' sites without crossing the Pakistani airspace. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said the Operation Sindoor was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack, that left 26 persons dead.
Poonch and Tangdhar Attack: At least 15 people were killed and 43 others injured in the cross-border artillery and mortar shelling from the Pakistani army along the Line of Control (Loc) in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan after Operation Sindoor.

Soon after India launched Operation Sindoor early Wednesday, Pakistans barbaric shelling left a trail of destruction  damaged houses, broken shops, burnt vehicles, bloodstains and debris-littered streets.

Artillery firing by the Pakistan Army since last night has hit civilian areas in Poonch and Tangdhar. Caused the death of 15 innocent civilians and injured 43 others, defence officials said.

Among the worst-hit border areas was Poonch district. Rajouri district in Jammu region, and Uri, Karnah and Tangdhar sectors in Kupwara district also witnessed the Pakistani shelling.

What survivors say Residents and officials described the indiscriminate shelling by Pakistani forces as barbaric and cowardly, according to the PTI report.

The shelling started around 2 AM in the entire border belt, leaving dozens of residential houses damaged, with their inhabitants running for cover after being woken up by the deafening sound of explosions.

The Pakistani forces used heavy artillery and mortars, targeting dozens of forward villages and densely populated civilian areas in Mankote, Mendhar, Thandi Kassi and Poonch city, a police officer said, according to a PTI report.

Also Read | Bloodbath In Pakistans Stock Market While Indian Markets Remain Stable

Targeting unarmed civilians is not bravery. It was is a cowardly act by Pakistan, the officer said, as per the report.

It was like a war zone with the injured screaming for help and families forced to look for cover. The damage could be seen everywhere, Mohd Zahid, a local resident, said as he thanked his luck for escaping the shelling.

Over 150 residents of Dhaki have shifted to the homes of their relatives after more than a dozen houses were damaged by the shelling.

We were not expecting such a situation at the dead of the night. We were lucky to survive the shelling and, therefore, it was better to move to some safer place for the time being, said Khurshid Ahmad, a resident of Dhaki.

Pakistan is retaliating to Indias operation by targeting the civilian population. They missed the military targets and shelled us heavily overnight, killing our people and injuring many. The damage to our homes and property is massive, said Sardar Navneet Singh from Mankote.

Videos circulating on social media showed the horror unfolding in the affected areas, drawing widespread outrage.

The Operation Sindoor The officials said the Indian Army is responding to the shelling in a befitting manner, resulting in many casualties on the enemy side after several of their posts engaged in firing were destroyed, according to the report.

India launched Operation Sindoor in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 that killed 26 people, mostly tourists.
Operation Sindoor, India-Pakistan news: All schools and colleges in three districts of Kashmir, five districts of Jammu, and three border districts of Punjab are closed today, as per official statements issued by respective authorities.

Further, all exams of the Kashmir University scheduled on May 7, have also been postponed. This comes amid India's Operation Sindoor strikes in Pakistan.

All Educational Insititues in 3 Kashmir Districts Shut Considering the present situation education institutions, schools, colleges in Baramulla, Kupwara and Gurez will remain closed for today. Authorities have urged the public to remain alert and stay calm, while follow official advisories as a precautionary measure, Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri stated, local news media reported.

Further, in its own statement, the Kashmir University said that all examinations scheduled for today, May 7, 2025, stand postponed. Fresh date for the conduct of postponed papers shall be notified separately, it added.

Jammu: Schools, colleges in 5 border districts Closed All educational institutions in five border districts of the Jammu will remain closed on Wednesday in the wake of prevailing situation in the region, officials said.

"In view of the prevailing situation, all schools, colleges and educational institutions in Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri and Poonch will remain closed today," Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar said on X.

Punjab: Schools in Ferozepur, Pathankot, Amritsar to remain closed All schools border districts of Punjab's Ferozepur, Pathankot and Amritsar will remain closed on Wednesday in the wake of tension between India and Pakistan.

The Ferozepur Deputy Commissioner issued an order that all schools in the district will remain closed on Wednesday, officials said, adding that all schools in Pathankot will also remain shut for the next 72 hours.

Operation Sindoor: 9 sites targeted under watchful eyes of PM Modi According to a statement from the Indian government, a major counter-terrorism move, termed Operation Sindoor was launched by Indian armed forces early on May 7. The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force were deployed with Prime Minister Narendra Modi constantly monitored the situation, ANI reported citing sources.

As many as 9 sites were struck in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), with the prime targets being terrorist infrastructure, the statement added. The Pakistan military's media arm, Inter-Services Public Relations, said India has "struck three places from the air"  Bhawalpur in Pakistan's Punjab Province as well as Kotli and Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.

A detailed press briefing on Operation Sindoor is expected at 10 am today (May 7), according to the government statement.
Operation Sindoor: Globally-designated terrorist and Jaish-e-Mohammad chief, Masood Azhar has acknowledged on 7 May that 14 people, including 10 members of his family and four close associates, were killed in India's 'Operation Sindoor' on the terror outfit's headquarters in Bahawalpur in Pakistan.

A statement by Azhar circulated through his Telegram channel said those killed in the attack on Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur included the JeM chief's elder sister and her husband, a nephew and his wife, another niece, and five children from his extended family.

The statement further mentioned that the attack also claimed the lives of one of Azhars close associate and his mother, along with two other close companions.'

Modi targets global terrorist Masood's Home Modi has targetted innocent kids, women in veil and elderly. I have no words to describe how sorrowful and shocked I am, Azhar writes in the statement basically acknowlegding that Indian Operation Sindoor hit his home in Bahawalpur in Pakistan.

Indian armed forces carried out precision strikes at terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the government said early Wednesday morning. In all, 9 areas have been targeted, the government said in the statement, codenaming the strike Operation Sindoor.

The revenge strike comes two weeks after the 22 April Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed in Jammu and Kashmir's popular hill station.

Azhar, however, said he wished he was part of the 14 fortunate people from his home killed in the attack. But time to meet God (die) is fixed. There were four kids in our home yesterday aged between 3 and 7 years. All of them have gone to live in heavens, Azhar said.

Operation to respond to the Pahalgam terror attack The government said that Indian armed forces durng Operation Sindoor targeted terrorist infrastructure and no civilains were attacked. Briefing reporters about the operation on Wednesday, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that India launched Operation Sindoor exercising its right to respond to the Pahalgam terror attack and preempt as well as deter more such cross-border attacks.

These actions were measured, non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible, he said. They focused on dismantling the terrorist infrastructure and disabling terrorists likely to be sent across to India, Misri said at a press conference.

Azhar, 56, designated as a global terrorist by the United Nations, is a blue-eyed boy of Pakistan's spy agency ISI and is believed to behind many terror attacks in India including the 2001 Parliament strike and the Pulwama attack of 2019.

The attack in Pahalgam was marked by extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots from close range and in front of their families. Family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of the killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message, Mirsi said.

Instead, all it has indulged in are denials and allegations. Our intelligence monitoring of Pakistan-based terrorist modules indicated that further attacks against India were impending. There was thus a compulsion both to deter and to preempt, Misri said.
Operation Sindoor: At least 27 airports across Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir, and Chandigarh, among others, will be shut down until May 9 due to restrictions following India's joint military action  Operation Sindoor  at nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in the wee hours of Wednesday.

As part of Operation Sindoor, Indian defence forces carried out coordinated strikes deep inside Pakistan, aiming to eliminate terror outfits Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Which airports will be shut? As of Wednesday evening, a total of 27 airports will be closed until May 9.

Also Read | India on high alert for cyber attacks after Operation Sindoor

Here's the complete list of airports that will be shut:

1. Chandigarh,

2. Srinagar,

3. Amritsar,

4. Ludhiana,

5. Bhuntar,

6. Kishangarh,

7. Patiala,

8. Shimla,

9. Gaggal,

10. Bhatinda,

11. Jaisalmer,

12. Jodhpur,

13. Bikaner,

14. Halwara,

15. Pathankot,

16. Leh,

17. Jammu,

18. Mundra,

19. Jamnagar,

20. Rajkot,

21. Porbandar,

22. Kandla,

23. Keshod,

24. Bhuj,

25. Dharamsala,

26. Gwalior, and

27. Hindon

Delhi airport issues advisory As tensions between India and Pakistan continue to simmer in the aftermath of the retaliatory Operation Sindoor  the Delhi airport issued an advisory  urging passengers to contact respective airlines for the flight status.

All operations across terminals and all 4 runways at Delhi Airport continue to function normally. However, there have been impact on some flights due to changing airspace conditions, the Delhi airport posted on X.

Flight routes to Pakistan shut As part of its retaliatory response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed at least 26 lives, India shut its airspace to Pakistani airlines on April 30. This move followed Pakistans decision on April 24 to close its airspace to Indian carriers.

Around 25 flight routes that allow entry of aircraft into the Pakistan airspace have been closed until further notice. The closure will also mean that foreign carriers that were overflying Pakistan airspace after exiting the Indian airspace will have to take longer routes to their destinations, three officials told PTI.

Over 200 flights cancelled In the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, more than 200 flights were cancelled due to airspace restrictions, affecting both domestic and international carriers, PTI reported. Airlines including Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India Express, Akasa Air, and several foreign carriers suspended operations to and from key airports.

IndiGo announced that it had cancelled over 165 flights from major hubs such as Amritsar and Srinagar, with disruptions expected to continue until the early hours of May 10.
Air India and IndiGo have cancelled flights to and from some airports, including Srinagar and Amritsar, until May 10 following Operation Sindoor, where armed forces launched military strikes in nine locations of Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (Pok).

Air India cancels flights to and from 9 airports "Air India flights to and from the following stations, Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot, are being cancelled till 0529 hrs IST on 10 May following a notification from aviation authorities on the closure of these airports," the airline said in a post on X.

Air India also informed that passengers who have valid tickets for travel during this time will be given a one-time waiver on rescheduling charges or a full refund for cancellations.

Customers holding valid tickets for travel during this period will be offered a one-time waiver on rescheduling charges or a full refund for cancellations, Air India wrote.

IndiGo cancels flights to and from 10 airports IndiGo Airlines has cancelled flights to and from 10 airports till May 10 in accordance with the guidelines of aviation authorities.

In a post on X, IndiGo wrote, In line with directives from aviation authorities regarding airport closures, we're in the process of cancelling all flights to and from Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Gwalior, Kishangarh, and Rajkot until 0529 hrs on 10th May.

Earlier, Air India informed that the flights to and from these nine airports were cancelled till 12 noon on Wednesday, May 7, while two international flights via Amritsar were diverted to Delhi. The recent directives by Indian airlines come after Operation Sindoor, which took place during the early hours of Wednesday, May 7, following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives.

SpiceJet cancels flights to and from 6 airports Meanwhile, SpiceJet has cancelled flights to and from six airports on May 7.

Due to the ongoing situation, our flights to and from Leh, Srinagar, Jammu, Kangra, Kandla & Amritsar are cancelled for 7th May 25, SpiceJet. The affected passengers can opt for a full refund or an alternate flight (as per availability)," SpiceJet wrote on X.

Akasa Air cancels flights to and from Srinagar Apart from Air India and Indigo, Akasa Air has cancelled flights to and from Srinagar.
Operation Sindoor: Russia on Wednesday expressed concern over the about the aggravation of military confrontation between India and Pakistan. Meanwhile, Turkey condemned India's strikes on terror camps in Pakistan, saying that it increases risk of an all-out war. Azerbaijan also decried the strikes conducted by Indian armed forces on nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir.

What Did Russia Say? Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova expressed deep concern over the escalation of military confrontation between India and Pakistan, according to posts on Telegram channel. She urged the parties involved to exercise restraint to prevent any further deterioration of the situation in the region.

Also Read | India on high risk of cyber attacks after Operation Sindoor

Operation Sindoor: What Did Turkey Say? Turkey said it was following the developments between Pakistan and India with concern. It stated that the attack carried out by India on the night of 6 May raised the risk of an all-out war.

Turkey condemned such provocative steps, as well as attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure.

To read more on what Turkey said click here

Turkey called on both parties to exercise common sense and refrain from unilateral actions. It expressed the expectation that measures would be taken to reduce tensions in the region as soon as possible and that necessary mechanisms, including in the field of counter-terrorism, would be established to prevent the recurrence of similar incidents. Turkey also voiced support for Pakistans call for an investigation into the terrorist attack of 22 April.

Also Read | Ex-UK PM Rishi Sunak supports India over Operation Sindoor

Operation Sindoor: What Did Azerbaijan Say? The Republic of Azerbaijan expressed its concern over the further escalation of tensions between the Republic of India and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. It condemned the military attacks against Pakistan that resulted in the death and injury of several civilians. Azerbaijan expressed solidarity with the people of Pakistan, offering condolences to the families of the innocent victims and wishing a speedy recovery to those injured.

To read more on what Azerbaijan said Click here

Azerbaijan called on all parties to exercise restraint and urged them to resolve the conflict through diplomatic means.

Operation Sindoor Operation Sindoor was a coordinated military strike launched by the Indian Armed Forces on the night of 67 May 2025, targeting nine terrorist camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

This precision operation, involving the Army and Air Force, was conducted in direct retaliation to the 22 April Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. The strikes focused on terror infrastructure linked to groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba, hitting key locations including Bahawalpur and Muridke, without targeting any Pakistani military installations.
India has contacted several countries, including the US, Russia, the UK and Saudi Arabia, early Wednesday and informed them of the military strikes carried out on nine locations in a joint operation by the Indian Armed Forces in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir under Operation Sindoor, according to a report by PTI citing people aware of the development.

Senior Indian officials have spoken to their counterparts in a number of countries to brief them on the steps taken by India. Among these are the US, the UK, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Russia, a person aware of the development told PTI.

Pahalgam terror attack These strikes from the Indian Armed Forces come weeks after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, which triggered widespread outrage and escalated tensions between India and Pakistan. On Tuesday, April 22, terrorists indiscriminately shot and killed 26 people, mostly tourists, in Kashmir's Pahalgam. The attack occurred in Baisaran, also known as mini Switzerland.

Donald Trump's response Reacting to the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, US President Donald Trump said the country knew something was going to happen and that he hoped it ends very quickly, after India conducted precision strikes on terrorist bases in Pakistan weeks after the Pahalgam terrorist attack.

"We just heard about it as we were walking in the doors of the Oval. I guess we knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past, Trump said, responding to a question during a press conference.

Pakistan reacts Responding to the attack, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said, "Pakistan has every right to give a befitting reply to this act of war imposed by India, and a strong response is indeed being given, Sharif said in a statement.

Following the military strikes, Pakistan initiated artillery fire along the Line of Control in the Bhimber Gali in the Poonch-Rajauri region. The forces are "responding appropriately in a calibrated manner," the Indian Army stated.
In the early hours of Wednesday, May 7, India launched a joint military action  Operation Sindoor  on terror hotbeds, striking nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The Indian military strikes in Pakistan come in response to the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which left 26 dead, most of them tourists.

Touted as the Indian militarys biggest and deepest strike yet, Operation Sindoor marks the first joint operation since the 1971 war. All three defence branches  Army, Navy, and Air Force  coordinated to carry out the strikes on Pakistan to eliminate Jaish-e-Muhammed and Lashkar leadership.

The Indo-Pakistani war of 1971 was a military conflict between India and Pakistan during the Bangladesh Liberation War in East Pakistan. It ended with the surrender of Pakistani forces.

Operation Sindoor In retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack, Indian armed forces carried out missile strikes early Wednesday on nine terror targets in Pakistan and PoK, including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base in Muridke.

The military strikes were carried out under Operation Sindoor two weeks after 26 persons were killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.

How many targets were struck? India has said in a statement that nine sites were targeted in the joint military operation.

Pakistan military spokesperson has claimed that Pakistani military shot down three Rafale planes, one SU-30 and one MIG-29 that Indian military flew. He said the five planes were shot down after India carried out strikes in Pakistan and while they were in the Indian airspace.

What India said after Operation Sindoor? After carrying out strikes in Pakistan and PoK, the Defence Ministry said in a statement that the military hit terror infrastructurefrom where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. It said total nine sites were targeted in the Indian military operation.

Operation Sindoor involved the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was monitoring the operation throughout the night, sources told ANI.

The nine targets that India hit are: four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK), ANI quoted sources as saying.

Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution, India said.
US Congressman Ro Khanna has called for Pakistan's Army chief Asim Munir to not go for a retaliation in aftermath of India's Operation Sindoor that destroyed Pakistani terror camps in the early hours of May 7.

Calling Munir a dictator, Khanna said that there should be an end to the tensions between India and Pakistan that have been brewing since the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians.

I would like to first make it clear to Asim Munir that there should be no retaliation on either side. This should be the end of it, he said during a televised interview with CNN.

He also noted that the US gives a lot of leverage to Pakistan.

We have a lot of leverage with Pakistan. We give IMF loans to Pakistan. They're dependent upon that, the Indian-origin US leader said.

No honest voice in Pakistan Lashing out at Pakistan Army Chief of Staff Asim Munir, Ro Khanna said he was a dictator who put erstwhile Prime Minister Imran Khan in jail, which has left the country without an honest voice.

We also have to understand that Asim Munir is a dictator who didn't have legitimate elections, who's put Imran Khan in jail. There is no honest voice right now in Pakistan, because it's a dictatorship. We should be calling for elections, fair elections, after the de-escalation, he said.

Khanna said that Munir should free Imran Khan and stop any retaliation.

We should be saying to Asim Munir that he needs to free Imran Khan, stop any retaliation, and then have a fair election, because there was a rigged election there. They've jailed Imran Khan, and he's not a voice for the Pakistani people, he said.

However, the politician had a message for PM Narendra Modi as well, urging him to not withhold the Indus Waters Treaty and stop water flow to Pakistan.

We should also make it clear to Prime Minister Modi, in my view, that he should not be cutting off the water. That was part of the Shimla Accords. You can't deprive a population of water, he said.

Stressing on the need for de-escalation, Khanna further said that he hoped Donald Trump had people who understood the India-Pakistan region.

But the important thing now is for de-escalation. I do hope that President Trump has people who understand the region. The only reason I say that, he said they've been fighting for centuries, just historically, they haven't been around for a century, he said.

Operation Sindoor On Wednesday, during a press conference in New Delhi, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said, Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir.
Operation Sindoor: "We killed only those who killed innocent", Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasised that the Indian Army acted with precision, alertness, and sensitivity during Operation Sindoor. He stated that the forces targeted and eliminated only those responsible for killing innocent civilians. The defense minister further affirmed that all the objectives set for the operation were successfully achieved, with the designated targets being destroyed exactly as planned.

"We have shown sensitivity by not allowing any civilian population to be affected at all", Singh said, adding Our action has been taken very thoughtfully and in a measured manner.

Speaking at the inauguration of Border Roads Organisation's 50 infrastructure projects across six States and 2 Union Territories, Rajnath Singh thanked the armed forces for the successful operation that struck targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.

Rajnath Singh said India had exercised its right to respond after the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam killed 25 tourists and one Kashmiri pony ride operator. India has exercised its 'right to respond' to the attack on its soil, Rajnath Singh said on Operation Sindoor.

"With the aim of breaking the morale of the terrorists, this action has been limited only to their camps and other infrastructure," he said.

The terrorists had cross-border linkages and an investigation pointed to Pakistan's role, like in several terror attacks on Indian soil in the past.

"With 'Operation Sindoor', our forces have given a befitting reply by destroying terrorist training camps... I salute the bravery of our armed forces," the defence minister said.

Operation Sindoor India's armed forces destroyed nine terrorist infrastructure including that of Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in a 25-minute-long "measured and "non-escalatory" missile and drone strike early Wednesday in retaliation to the dastardly terror attack in Pahalgam.
Operation Sindoor: Supreme Court Judge Justice Surya Kant lauded the Indian Armed Forces for their unwavering dedication and exceptional bravery. Speaking on the nations security and the role of the military, Justice Suryakant emphasised that every citizen should take immense pride in the sacrifices and valour displayed by the armed forces in protecting the country.

Justice Suryakants remarks came in the wake of a successful operation conducted by the Indian military, which involved shutting down a strategic base engaged in activities hostile to India.

He described the Operation Sindoor as a testament to the courage and professionalism of the armed forces, underscoring their critical role in maintaining national security.

The Indian Armed Forces stand as the bulwark of our nations sovereignty, Justice Suryakant said. Their commitment to duty and readiness to face danger head-on is something every citizen must recognise and honour. He further added that the recent operation demonstrated not only military precision but also the deep resolve of the forces to safeguard the countrys interests.

Former Chief Justice NV Ramana also expressed concern over the rising tensions between India and Pakistan. He also assured support to the PM Narendra Modi government to protect the citizen of the country.

"We are all concerned about the current developments in the subcontinent. It is utterly worrisome. We all will support the government to protect the citizens of the country. This is a brave decision, we have to wholeheartedly support the Indians. We have to stand by the government in this critical moment." NV Ramana said.

15 civilians killed in artillery firing by Pakistan Army in Poonch Fifteen innocent civilians have been killed and 43 injured in artillery firing by the Pakistan Army since yesterday night which has hit civilian areas in Poonch and Tangdhar, defence sources said on Wednesday.

Pakistan Army has targeted civilian areas in the border areas. The shelling caused panic among villagers and damaged several houses.

After Operation Sindoor, the Pakistan Army continued its series of ceasefire violations by targeting civilian areas in the border areas of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. Officials said the shelling caused panic among villagers and damaged several houses.
The deadly terror attack in Pahalgam last month, claiming the lives of 26 tourists, has had a direct consequence: travellers are now skipping Jammu and Kashmir in favour of other hill resorts to beat the summer heat.

According to industry experts, Kashmir had become a preferred tourist destinations over the past two years. But after the 22 April attack in Pahalgam's Baisaran meadow, tourists are considering destinations in other hill states such as Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.

As per data shared by travel portals EaseMyTrip and Ixigo, Munnar and Vagamon in Kerala, Kullu-Manali, Shimla and Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh and Dehradun in Uttrakhand have recorded a surge in air travel demand. As per Ixigo data, flight bookings to travel to Kullu in May have shot up by 188% year-on-year, 133% to Dehradun and by 64% to Shimla.

Also read: Flying High: Private jet cos see demand surge in 2025, led by religious tourism

Rikant Pittie, chief executive officer and co-founder of EaseMyTrip, told Mint that tourists are re-routing their plans, favouring familiar and safer hill destinations, where infrastructure and accessibility are well-established. Travellers are increasingly prioritizing safety and stability and this shift in sentiment is prompting a broader redistribution of tourist traffic across Indias hill circuits. Other destinations gaining traction include Ooty (Tamil Nadu), parts of Uttarakhand and Darjeeling (West Bengal)," Pittie said.

In the north, Himachal Pradesh has emerged as a key beneficiary of this tourist traffic redistribution. EaseMyTrip data showed that Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala and Kullu have also seen a surge in queries for hotels.

Ajay Prakash, president of the Travel Agents Federation of India, told Mint that in the current season, tourists are avoiding Kashmir due to the fear factor, which would create pressure on other hill stations. He also expects airfares to increase.

Also read: Summer travel season: Visa application volumes up 15-20%

Other hill stations need to gear up to handle the extra tourists and traffic. It is expected airfare to cities with hill stations will see an increase by 15-20% due to the surprise demand," said Prakash.

As per EaseMyTrip, average airfare for May has increased by 30%, 20-30% and 25%, respectively, for flights to Shimla and Manali, Dehradun and Kerala.

Prakash is also of the view that a successful Amarnath yatraan annual pilgrimage undertaken by Hindu devotees to the Amarnath cave temple, a sacred shrine located in Pahalgam, will make tourists confident about travelling to Kashmir again. The pilgrimage starts in July and lasts 45 days.

Also read: Tata Sons' low-cost carrier Air India Express looks ahead to a good FY26

EaseMyTrip anticipates that southern hill stations such as Munnar and Vagamon, already popular, will experience an even stronger surge in visitors due to the downturn in Kashmir tourism following the terror attack.
Denmark summoned the US ambassador in Copenhagen to discuss alleged espionage against Greenland amid a growing push to gain control of the Arctic island.

The summons from Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen comes after a report on Wednesday by The Wall Street Journal, which cited anonymous sources, saying that the US will step up espionage efforts against the semi-autonomous Danish territory. Rasmussen told reporters at an informal meeting of European Union foreign affairs ministers in Warsaw that the article worries me a lot because we dont spy among friends.

We dont comment on matter of intelligence. However, the President has been very clear that the U.S. is concerned about the security of Greenland and the Arctic, National Security Council spokesman James Hewitt said in a statement.

The US embassy in Copenhagen wasnt immediately able to comment when reached by phone.

It is worrying if they have the approach that they must now obtain intelligence in Denmark and Greenland, obviously with the aim of finding a way to drive a wedge, Rasmussen said. That is not the cooperation we should have, so it is something I view with great seriousness.

Copenhagens summons comes at a time when US already has strained relations with Denmark and Greenland following a repeated push from President Donald Trump to take over the Arctic island. Last weekend, the president reiterated he would not rule out using military force to gain control of the territory, saying the US needs it very badly for international security.

Greenland and Denmark have time and again pushed back, stressing that the island is neither for sale, nor open to becoming American territory. Rasmussen didnt specify when hell host the meeting with the US ambassador, but said he hopes to get the story refuted.

With assistance from Kate Sullivan.

2025 Bloomberg L.P.
US President Donald Trump has said the country knew something was going to happen and that he hoped it ends very quickly, after India conducted precision strikes on terrorist bases in Pakistan weeks after a terrorist attack that killed 26 people, mostly civilians, in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.

We just heard about it as we were walking in the doors of the Oval. I guess we knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past, Trump said, responding to a question during a press conference.

Indian armed forces carried out precision strikes at terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the government said on early Wednesday morning. In all, 9 locations have been targeted, the government said in the statement, calling the strike Operation Sindoor.

"They have been fighting for many many decades, and centuries when you think about it. Nah, I just hope it ends very quickly," the US president said.

The defence ministry described the strikes on Pakistan as a "precise and restrained response" to the barbaric Pahalgam terror attack and stressed that no Pakistani military facilities were hit, reflecting India's "calibrated and non-escalatory approach".

The Pakistan military's media arm, Inter-Services Public Relations, said India has "struck three places from the air"  Bhawalpur in Pakistan's Punjab Province as well as Kotli and Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. The ISPR said all the strikes were conducted from Indian airspace and Pakistan would respond at a time and place of its choosing.

Also Read | Operation Sindoor: India hits terror targets in PoK days after Pahalgam attack

Muridke is the headquarters of the Lashkar-e-Taiba, which is believed to be behind the Pahalgam attack, and Bahawalpur is the base of the Masood Azhar-led Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said attacks were carried out in five locations and that the country "retains the right to respond forcefully". Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs called India's military strikes an unprovoked and blatant act of war.
Highlighting Pakistan's role in aiding terrorism across the world and providing a safe haven to the terrorists, the Indian government referred to how Sajid Mir, a top commander of the proscribed terrorist organisation of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), was brought back to life by Islamabad amid international pressure.

During the media briefing following Operation Sindoor, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that Pakistan has a well-deserved reputation of being a haven for terrorists from around the world, with terrorists enjoying impunity there. Vikram Misri also accused Pakistan of misleading the world to give immunity to the terrorists residing in the country.

Highlighting the role of Pakistan-based terrorists in the Pahalgam terror attack, he said, The features of this attack also tie in with Pakistan's long track record of perpetrating cross-border terror in India, which is well documented, and beyond question.The Sajid Mir case, in which this terrorist was declared dead and then, in response to international pressure, brought back to life, found alive and arrested, is the most glaring example.

Who is Sajid Mir? Sajid Mir, who uses aliases such as Sajid Majeed, Ibrahim Shah, Wasi, Khali, Muhammad Waseem" is a resident of Lahore in Punjab Province. He is a top commander of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

According to the Home Ministry, Sajid Mir is on the National Investigation Agency (NIA)s most wanted list for his role in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack as one of its main planners.

The ministry said an investigation by the NIA revealed that Sajid Mir was also one of the key handlers of David Coleman Headley for the Mumbai terror attacks.

Also Read | Operation Sindoor: How last five India-Pakistan wars impacted Indian stock market?

During a testimony at a US court, David Headley had described Sajid Mir as an ISI officer.

What FBI says about Sajid Mir As per the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Sajid Mir features in the agency's Most Wanted Terrorist list for conspiracy to injure property of foreign government; providing material support to terrorists; killing a citizen outside the US, aiding and abetting; bombing of places of public use.

The United States Department of State has also declared a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to Sajid Mir's arrest and conviction.

Additionally, Mir allegedly conspired to commit a terrorist attack against a newspaper and its employees in Denmark between 2008 and 2009, the FBI says.

It adds: Mir was indicted in the United States District Court, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division, Chicago, Illinois, on April 21, 2011, and was charged with conspiracy to injure property of foreign government; providing material support to terrorists; killing a citizen outside of the US and aiding and abetting; and bombing of places of public use.

An arrest warrant against him was issued on April 22, 2011.

Sajid Mir reportedly underwent plastic surgery after the 2008 attack. According to reports, it was Sajid Mir who advised Headley to change his name from Dawood Gilani to David Coleman Headley so he could pose as an American.

Why is his case extraordinary? In 2022, Pakistan's Dawn reported that Sajid Mir was sentenced by an anti-terrorism court in Lahore in June 2022 after convicting him in a terror-financing case. The court had also fined Sajid Mir Pkr 4,20,000. It said he was serving his sentence in Kot Lakhpat jail in Lahore.

The report also mentioned that the terrorist was quietly jailed in Pakistan. Even his detention was kept away from the media's eyes, the report added. Till this news report came, the Pakistani authorities had pronounced Sajid Mir untraceable or dead; sometimes, even his existence was denied. According to a report in Nikkei Asia, he was arrested in June 2022.
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday accused CBS, the American television and radio broadcaster, of airing an interview with Kamala Harris which he said was unlawfully fixed, manipulated, and doctored.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said that the interview with Kamala Harris was worse than expected and made the former US vice-president appear at least somewhat coherent.

Trump was referring to a "60 Minutes" interview with his 2024 election rival Harris, which he said was aired just before the election day and deep into early voting.

What has Trump accused the CBS of? In his post on Truth Social, Trump said Harris's answers were unlawfully fixed, manipulated, and doctored throughout by CBS, in order to try and make Kamala appear at least somewhat coherent.

He also accused CBS and media giant Paramount of hiding the full transcript of the interview which he said they refused to release until after he was sworn-in. He called the transcript as fake, corrupt, and anti-Trump propaganda.

"The full transcript, which 60 Minutes, CBS News, and Paramount tried to hide from the American People, and refused to release until after I was already Inaugurated, and they were ordered to do so by the Federal Communications Commission, shows that the interview was nothing but fake, corrupt, anti-Trump propaganda.

Trump has also accused the CBS News of airing two different snippets from the same answer the then vice-president gave about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, to help her in her election campaign, an AFP report said.

The Republican billionaire  who is seeking at least $20 billion in damages  sued last October, alleging that the interview violated a Texas consumer protection law, the report added.

US senators urge Paramount not to cave US senators urged media giant Paramount on Wednesday not to settle Trump's lawsuit against its news division, accusing the president of attacking free speech.

Also Read | Trump still has a chance to remake rather than destroy global trade

According to the AFP report, "In a letter to Paramount owner Shari Redstone, independent former presidential candidate Bernie Sanders and eight Democrats said the suit against CBS News had absolutely no merit."

"In the United States of America, presidents do not get to punish or censor the media for criticising them," they wrote.

Freedom of the press is what sets us apart from tin pot dictatorships and authoritarian regimes, the report said.

The network didn't respond immediately to a request for comment but has denied any wrongdoing, it added.
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday offered to help India and Pakistan amid rising tensions between the two countries, and said he wanted the escalating conflict between the two countries to stop.

"Oh it's so terrible! My position is I get along with both. I know both very well and I want to see them work it out. I want to see them stop and hopefully they can stop now. They've gotten tit for tat, so hopefully they can stop now. But I know we get along with both countries very well. [We have] Good relationships with both. And I want to see it stop," he said, as quoted by ANI

"And if I can do anything to help, I will I will be there," Trump added, Trump said in response to a question on the war between India and Pakistan.

India conducted precision strikes on terrorist bases in Pakistan weeks after a terrorist attack that killed 26 people, mostly civilians, in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam district.

Hope hostilities end soon Earlier in the day, Trump had said, We just heard about it as we were walking in the doors of the Oval. I guess we knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past, Trump said, responding to a question during a press conference.

"They have been fighting for many many decades, and centuries when you think about it. Nah, I just hope it ends very quickly," the US president said.

Operation Sindoor Indian armed forces carried out precision strikes at terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the government said on early Wednesday morning. In all, 9 locations have been targeted, the government said in the statement, calling the strike Operation Sindoor.

The defence ministry described the strikes on Pakistan as a "precise and restrained response" to the barbaric Pahalgam terror attack and stressed that no Pakistani military facilities were hit, reflecting India's "calibrated and non-escalatory approach".

The Indian strike comes after days of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan in the aftermath of Pahalgam terror strike with New Delhi announcing a host of punitive measures against Islamabad, including suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, shutting down of the only operational land border crossing at Attari and downgrading of diplomatic ties following the terror attack.
Pakistan on Wednesday announced a 48-hour closure of its airspace for all air traffic after India carried out a military strike on terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK).

Shortly after the military strike by India, Pakistani aviation authorities closed the airspace over Islamabad and Lahore and diverted flights to Karachi. Later, the entire airspace was closed for 48 hours as a precautionary measure.

However, aviation authorities reopened the airspace after an eight-hour closure.

How were the flights affected International and domestic flights resumed this morning, with the majority of them departing from the Jinnah International Airport in Karachi or Lahore.

However, airspace in Lahore was closed again for 24 hours after a brief resumption.

A heavy rush was witnessed at the Jinnah Airport in Karachi as delayed international and domestic flights took off or landed there.

A spokesperson for the Civil Aviation Authority said that flights from West Asian countries and other destinations are now fully operational as per schedule.

He added that domestic flights had also become operational until further notice.

Also Read | After Pahalgam  The 15 days that led to Operation Sindoor

The spokesperson said an Uzbekistan Airlines flight from Tashkent had reached New Delhi via Lahore.
KYIV, UkraineUkraine and Russia stepped up strikes ahead of Moscows World War II commemorations on Thursday, with Russia closing more than a dozen airports and canceling scores of flights amid a wave of drone attacks.

The drone attacks, which Ukraine says targeted military facilities, disrupted travel as world leaders began arriving in Moscow for the annual Victory Day parade that marks the Soviet victory over invading Nazi forces in 1945.

Russia, meanwhile, struck the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, overnight with a ballistic missile, followed by hours of drone strikes that lasted well into Wednesday. At least two people were killed and seven injured, authorities said.

The attacks come as the U.S. has struggled to get Ukraine and Russia to agree on a peace plan, threatening at times to walk away if the two sides didnt make progress.

Vice President JD Vance said Wednesday that he wasnt pessimistic about the status of talks. I wouldnt say that the Russians are uninterested" in ending the conflict, he said. The Russians are asking for a certain set of concessions, and we think theyre asking for too much, he said.

Moscow said it planned to observe a cease-fire that it had called for, which was set to go into effect at midnight local time. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called Moscows three-day cease-fire proposal a theatrical performance" by Russian President Vladimir Putin. He has called for a 30-day cease-fire, saying more time is needed for negotiations.

In two or three days, it is impossible to build any plan for the next steps regarding ending the war," Zelensky said.

Vance said Wednesday that Russia doesnt view a 30-day cease-fire as in their strategic interests. So weve tried to move beyond the obsession with the 30-day cease-fire," he said.

Kyiv hasnt publicly commented on the drone attacks, but a senior government official said the strikes were necessary as a show of force.

More than a dozen Russian airports ceased operations at some point over the past two days in response to the drone attacks, authorities said. Russias national carrier Aeroflot has canceled numerous flights, as have other Russian airlines. Some airports, including in Moscow, remain closed.

Unverified videos of the Ukrainian attack posted online showed a thunderous midair explosion that lit up the sky. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said at least nine Ukrainian drones were intercepted over the city.

The attacks also disrupted the air travel of some leaders as they made their way to Moscow for the military parade in Red Square, which Putin is expected to use to show the country isnt isolated after more than three years of war in Ukraine.

A plane carrying Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, who was traveling to Moscow, was forced to land in Azerbaijan on Wednesday, according to a report by Russias Vesti television channel. He later resumed his journey, state media reported.

Vucic is one of 29 world leaders, including Chinese leader Xi Jinping, who Moscow says will attend the parade in a show of support for Putin. The Victory Day spectacle traditionally includes Russian nuclear missile launchers trundling across Red Square and contingents of foreign troops goose-stepping over the cobblestones.

Write to Matthew Luxmoore at matthew.luxmoore@wsj.com
The United States (US) and the United Kingdoms (UK) have advised its citizens not to travel to parts of India and Pakistan following India's Operation Sindoor targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in response to the Pahalgam terror attack.

The April 22 attack, carried out by the terror organisation The Resistance Front, killed 26 civilians.

Also Read | Srinagar airport closed for civilian flights

Depart areas of active conflict if: The US In a security alert, titled Military Activity and Closed Airspace, the US Embassy and Consulates in Pakistan said, US citizens are reminded of the 'Do Not Travel' advisory for areas in the vicinity of the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict.

The US Embassy also advised American citizens to depart areas of active conflict if they can safely do so, or to shelter in place, since Pakistan's airspace has been closed, and many flights have been cancelled.

It said that US citizens should exercise caution and leave the area if you find yourself unexpectedly in the vicinity of military activities, shelter in place if they cannot relocate, review personal security plan, keep a low profile and be aware of surroundings and carry identification and cooperate with authorities.

In March, the US Department of State had issued a Reconsider Travel advisory for Pakistan in general due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict.

Do Not Travel to: Balochistan Province and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Province, which include the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), due to terrorism and to the immediate vicinity of the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict, the advisory stated.

Stay up to date: The UK The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office warned UK citizens against all travel within 10 kilometres of the India-Pakistan border, 10 miles (16.09 kms) of the Line of Control (the de facto border that divides disputed Kashmir between the two countries) and the Balochistan province of Pakistan.

Also Read | Srinagar airport closed for civilian flights

A statement said: On the night of 6 May (UK Time) Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority indicated that it was closing Pakistan airspace for at least 48 hours. There are reports of flights being diverted. British nationals should contact their airline for up-to-date information.

We are continuing to monitor the situation closely. British nationals should stay up to date with our travel advice and follow the advice of local authorities, it added.
Kohl Corp isnt a company we are very familiar with. The American departmental chain has been struggling financially in the face of the changing retail landscape in the US. But its recent decision to fire its CEO, Ashley Buchanan , just four months into his job, for a breach of its code of ethics, deserves attention.

Thats because at the same time in India, Tata Sons, the holding company of the countrys most respected conglomerate, has taken a somewhat different view on a similar issue of corporate behaviour by a senior executive. That view seems to go against the spirit of the storied groups laid-down policy on conflict of interest, and contradicts its recent action against other executives as well as the example set by Ratan Tata in forcing Cyrus Mistry out as chairman of the group in October 2016.

Last month, Mint reported that Divinion Advisory Services, a company started in 2022 by the daughter and wife of Suprakash Mukhopadhyay, group company secretary of Tata Sons, and run by retired Tata executives, was briefly listed as a Tata Group company. Tata Pension Management, which is connected to Mukhopadhyay through another Tata firm, included Divinion on its group company list in 2022, though the mention was taken off the following year with the company claiming it was an error on its part. In response to the charges, Tata Sons immediately instituted an internal enquiry which eventually found Mukhopadhyay in breach of disclosure norms, but pronounced him not guilty.

Also read: Tata Sons concludes probe into a top executive. Heres the verdict

At Kohl, the CEOs offence was indefensible and his sacking came as no surprise after investigations revealed that he had directed millions of dollars in business, under "highly unusual terms", to a company run by a woman with whom he had an undisclosed romantic relationship over the previous 10 years. Buchanan had failed to disclose this personal connection, thus violating the company's code of ethics.

The process the US company adopted to handle the matter contrasts with how Tata Sons seems to have gone about its task of investigating Mukhopadhyays actions. Buchanans termination came after an external investigation overseen by the boards audit committee. At the conclusion of the enquiry, the company announced the rationale for its decision transparently, issuing a press statement stating that the CEO had violated company policies by directing it to engage in vendor transactions that involved undisclosed conflicts of interest.

Tata Sons chose a three-member internal committee to go into the charges. The committee in its report, which is now with the group chairman N. Chndrasekaran, spelt out clear lapses - Mukhopadhyay had failed to make the requisite disclosures about the firm run by his family, and about his role in soliciting other Tata executives including those he had some influence over, and finally about transactions like a corporate social responsibility (CSR) grant from Tata Investment to the Divinion Trust. Despite this, the committee concluded that he was not guilty because there was no intentional breach of Tata Code of Conduct or mala fide intent on his part to make a personal gain."

In 2023, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) sacked six employees in a recruitment bribery case while Tata Steel also fired a total of 35 people for breaching its code of conduct. Perceived conflict of interest was also a major factor in the sacking of Mistry as group chairman. In September 2013, Ratan Tata wrote a three-page letter to Mistry expressing his deep concern about Tata companies giving business to Mistry family businesses, of which Cyrus was a 50% beneficial owner. There appeared to be a conflict of interest, which Tata Sons could not allow", Tata wrote.

Also read: Kohl's sacks CEO Ashley Buchanan over policy violations, Michael Bender chosen as interim boss: All you need to know

Clearly, the Tata code of conduct leaves little scope for ambiguity. Mukhopadhyay, as a 35-year veteran of the group, would be well aware of those guardrails. Despite that, he chose to help a business run by members of his family in his official capacity. That doesnt add up to the committees conclusion that there does not appear to be any intentional breach of Tata Code of Conduct" even if one accepts that there was no intent on his part to make a personal gain by compromising the interests of his employer entity (Tata Sons) or of the relevant Tata Group entities".

As chairman, Chandrasekaran still has the opportunity to take a more exemplary stance on the matter and ensure that the groups well-earned reputation for ethical behaviour isnt compromised. Even if he decides to go against the committees recommendations, it still begs the question of why a group of senior Tata Sons executives - Nupur Mallick, the head of human resources, Eruch N. Kapadia, chief financial officer, and Sidharth Sharma, general counsel - thought otherwise.
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) recently issued its first settlement order in relation to Googles alleged anti-competitive conduct in the Android TV ecosystem. India had allowed settlement of some competition law cases with the CCI in March 2024. Soon after, Google applied to the CCI to settle its smart TV (STV) case, in which the director general (DG) of investigation had already found evidence to suggest that Googles conduct was abusive.

Within a year of the settlement application, the CCI decided to close its proceedings against Google based on a set of behavioural commitments and a settlement amount of 20.24 crore.

Also Read: Why CCI matters for protecting customers from digital players

The DG revealed that Googles licensing regime required STV makers to pre-install the complete bundle of Googles apps on their STVs, only two of which were found to be necessary (Android TV Play Store and Play Services). By requiring STV makers to install other apps such as YouTube and Google Assistant, Google reaped revenues not only from its must-have apps, but also from others.

Additionally, as a pre-condition to install its proprietary apps, Google restrained STV makers from partnering with rival operating systems or developing such systems by means of Android forks, an open-source option. This restriction applied not only to STVs, but also to other devices sold by STV makers, including smart phones and smart watches. This impeded innovation and reduced consumer choice, as STV companies were restricted to Googles ecosystem.

To address these concerns, Google proposed the following commitments to settle the case with the CCI: (i) the introduction of an alternative fee-based licensing regime permitting STV manufacturers to access/ install only the two must-have apps; and (ii) a waiver of the restriction that prevented STV makers from developing Android Forks or partnering with competing operating systems across their device portfolio.

Three out of four CCI members found Googles settlement package effective in addressing the competition law concerns identified by the investigation. One member disagreed. His point was that Googles proposal to parallelly continue with its existing anti-competitive licensing regime may not adequately address the problem. The dissenting member has proposed a single regime free of all antitrust issues, instead of the two parallel regimes proposed by Google.

Also Read: Theres no arguing with the broad thrust of CCIs order on WhatsApps use of data

Although the majority view on Googles settlement proposal may pass muster on grounds of proportionality and practicality, the dissent order cannot be completely disregarded. Since the old licensing regime continues, Google may get several STV makers to opt for (and continue with) the old regime. This could render the new regimes existence a mere compliance formality and diminish the intended effect of the settlement.

Effective implementation of behavioural remedies has been a challenge for antitrust authorities worldwide. Even mature jurisdictions, such as the European Union (EU), have struggled to ensure that remedies are implemented in their true spirit and achieve their intended effects.

The European Commission recently conducted an ex-post evaluation of the implementation and effectiveness of EU antitrust remedies. It revealed that in over half of all non-cartel cases considered, there was no evidence that remedies were effective, despite implementation. The study highlighted that, unlike structural remedies, behavioural remedies were hard to monitor. Without a robust monitoring mechanism, companies may be able to exploit loopholes to delay or even bypass effective implementation of remedies. In many cases, parties could compromise the spirit of a remedy package whilst formally complying with its letter.

There is no doubt that the CCIs remedy packages will also be critically evaluated for their effectiveness.

However, the CCI must continue to learn from the best practices emerging from the experience of mature jurisdictions and endeavour to ensure that remedies and their monitoring mechanisms achieve their intended effects to the extent possible.

The real carrot that would draw companies to opt for settlements is an opportunity to engage in constructive discussions with the CCI to arrive at remedy packages that could broadly address competition law concerns without disrupting their businesses. There is no such prospect if remedies are imposed by the Commission through contravention orders. In such cases, companies resort to litigation to challenge the commitments imposed.

Also Read: Googles ad-tech dominance is easier to fix than its search monopoly

Recently, for example, Meta challenged a CCI order in the WhatsApp privacy policy case, claiming that the behavioural commitments imposed by it would lead to a potential collapse of its business model. Indeed, even Google has in the past contested remedies imposed by the CCI in other cases related to its search engine, Android smartphone ecosystem and Google Play Store.

The CCI also benefits from settlements. It frees up its limited resources and helps attain procedural efficiency. Since settlement orders cannot be appealed, there seems no better way of bringing finality to CCI orders. A large part of the penalties can be recovered as settlement amounts.

This mechanism may also prove crucial for timely redressal of anti-competitive concerns in digital markets, as Indias digital competition law is still far from seeing the light of day.

The authors are competition lawyers.
Last week, Indias Supreme Court decided to annul JSW Steel s 19,700-crore acquisition of Bhushan Power & Steel Ltd (BPSL) and ordered its liquidation, causing a storm in the country. This raises four issues: a) The apex courts invocation of Article 142 of the Constitution, which suggests plausible misuse of judicial power; b) the credibility of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) and National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT); c) the long time gap between the takeover and court judgment; and d) Indias global economic credibility.

Informed by expert advice and historical precedents, we should express deep concern over the possibility of this rulings overreach, given how it could destabilize the IBCa framework designed to ease exit barriers, facilitate business shutdowns and enhance Indias ease of doing business.

Also Read: Mint Quick Edit | JSW-Bhushan case: Close insolvency process gaps

Further, Article 142, which is meant to ensure complete justice," is a constitutional safety valve, not a tool to override statutory frameworks like the IBC. The court applied a strict interpretation of law. Also, for a consummated takeover, the courts ruling appears to disregard the principle articulated in the case of Delhi State Electricity Board vs BSES Yamuna Power Ltd (2007), which cautioned, You cannot unscramble a scrambled omelette" by reversing integrated deals after adverse findings.

Though this phrase appears in the 2007 judgment, not in the instant case of BPSLs acquisition by JSW Steel, it is relevant: undoing a finalized transaction risks economic disruption. By invoking Article 142, likened by Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar to a nuclear missile," the court has created a precedent that undermines the IBCs finality.

As M.S. Sahoo, former chairperson of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI), has stated, The Supreme Court could have rescued BPSL using Article 142, not liquidated it," suggesting that the court could have revised the plan and penalized violators to preserve jobs and investments (Business Standard, 2 May 2025). This statement underscores that Article 142 could have balanced legal compliance with economic pragmatism, as seen in Shivshakti Sugars Ltd vs Shree Renuka Sugars (2017). In this case, the Supreme Court had looked at the totality of the matter and decided on economic principles.

Also Read: Do creditor committees in insolvency cases need an oversight body?

The IBC, enacted in 2016, aimed to streamline corporate insolvency, ensuring time-bound resolutions within 270 days to maximize asset value and ease exit barriers for distressed firms. However, the BPSL case, spanning eight years from the Reserve Bank of Indias referral in 2017 to liquidation in 2025, exemplifies persistent delays.

The appeals that led to the ruling were filed by operational creditors. Mint reported that Kalyani Transco and other creditors had sought higher recoveries. They contested the 350 crore allocated against their claims of 733 crore, and also JSWs use of optionally convertible debentures (OCDs).

In Kalyani Transco vs Bhushan Power and Steel Ltd (2025 INSC 621), the Supreme Court declared JSWs resolution planapproved by the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) in September 2019 and confirmed by the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) in February 2020illegal" for using OCDs alongside equity. The court held that this violated Section 30(2) of the IBC. It also pointed to procedural lapses by JSW Steel in the resolution plans implementation (20192021). Using its power under Article 142, it ordered liquidation, nullifying a deal which was already in operation for four years.

Also Read: Complete justice: Article 142 should be invoked only in truly rare cases

The outcome? Liquidation will reportedly result in a 15,000-crore loss for JSW and a 10-15% production drop, news that has already caused the companys share price to fall. BPSLs creditors, led by State Bank of India, will have to refund 19,350 crore, which they received under the IBC process. This was a 60% haircut of their claims totalling 47,158 crore, but refunding it could leave them with provisioning problems, while liquidation could mean an even lower recovery rate.

Meanwhile, workers will face job losses and foreign investors involved in the resolution, reportedly including Ares SSG Capital, confront trust erosion.

The economic consequences of this judgment appear dire. It raises questions on the IBC resolution process under a three-tiered structure comprising a committee of creditors, the NCLT and the NCLAT. The IBCs top tier, the NCLAT, is headed by a retired Supreme Court judge so that matters are resolved judiciously.

Critically, BPSLs liquidation will lock up its 4.5 million tonne capacity for a long period, straining Indias market supply of domestic steel. With NCLT and NCLAT decisions deemed faulty by the countrys top court, litigation risks associated with IBC proceedings will be seen to have risen. This could complicate future resolutions under the code. Econocrats have warned that such retrospective rulings could deter investors, echoing as it does the 2012 Vodafone tax saga.

Globally, this ruling signals unpredictability in the context of final judicial outcomes in India. A stark reversal such as this could potentially weaken the credibility of business asset re-allocation processes in India among international investors who need the assurance of legal certainty. This would not be good for the countrys appeal as an investment destination.

Also Read: A judiciary that refrains from judicial overreach can better serve the cause of justice

The rulings spillover effectsundermining of the IBCs credibility, increased resolution costs and its chilling effect on the market for distressed assetscould be wider than they may seem at first glance. Hence, broadly speaking, it would serve the country well if the apex court adopts a better balance in its use of Article 142, with the economic impact of judgments taken into account. We also need IBC reforms to enforce timelines and clarify funding norms, plus government action to restore investor confidence so that Indias appeal as an investment hub does not diminish.

Akanksha Mathur of CUTS contributed to this article.

The author is secretary general, CUTS International.
In the wee hours of Wednesday, the Indian Air Force (IAF) retaliated for the murder of 26 innocent tourists in Pahalgam, Kashmir, by launching missile strikes on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK). A few hours later, New Delhi stated on the morning of Wednesday, 7 April, that nine sites have been targeted."

A little while ago, Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," said Indias foreign secretary Vikram Misri, while briefing a media gathering in New Delhi.

Also Read: Pakistan must wake up and smell the geo-economic brew

Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution," said the Indian statement.

The Indian governments spokesperson declined to take any questions.

The Pakistan government acknowledged Indias air strikes against terrorist targets in Punjab and PoJK, but made some claims that India has not confirmed.

The Indian statement said that the attack was ordered after last months deadly militant attack on tourists in Kashmir. We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable," it said.

Pakistans military spokesperson said that residents in Muzaffarabad, the biggest city in PoJK, were jolted awake by huge explosions.

India said three civilians were killed by Pakistani shelling on its side of the Line of Control (LoC), the de facto border that divides the province of Kashmir between India and Pakistan.

Also Read: Mint Quick Edit | Pakistan is caught in a time warp

Tensions between the two nuclear-armed states soared after four heavily armed terrorists emerged from a forest outside Pahalgam last month and shot dead tourists, including honeymooners. India says it has evidence pointing towards the clear involvement of Pakistan-based terrorists" in that attack. Pakistan has denied any link to the Pahalgam killings.

Pakistans defence minister Khawaja Asif told the Pakistani news channel Geo TV that India had launched missiles at Pakistan from within its own airspace. Islamabad will respond to this [attack] at a time and place of its choosing," said a Pakistani army spokesperson. All of our air force jets are airborne. This is a shameful and cowardly attack that was carried out from within Indias airspace," he said.

The Indian army stated on 7 May that Pakistan had fired artillery in Bhimber Gali in the Poonch-Rajauri area" in Kashmir, just across the dividing line. Indias armed forces are responding appropriately in a calibrated manner," the army said in a post on X.

Pakistan has a 650,000-strong military, which is mainly deployed in guarding its borders with India and Afghanistan. Indias military numbers over 1.5 million, but has fewer responsibilities for guarding borders with numerous neighbours.

Also Read: Govt may invoke ESMA to curb hoarding, ensure steady supplies post Operation Sindoor

Operation Sindoor has drawn global attention. Marco Rubio, the US secretary of state, said on X that he is monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely. Earlier on Wednesday, the Indian embassy in Washington said that Indias national security adviser Ajit Doval had spoken to Rubio and briefed him on the actions taken." US President Donald Trump also responded to media questions about Indias strike, calling it a shame." I just hope it ends very quickly," Trump said.

Rubio also said that he would continue to engage with both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution".

The Chinese foreign ministry called Indias action regrettable," adding that it was concerned" about the situation. It asked both India and Pakistan to remain calm, exercise restraint and refrain from taking actions that may further complicate the situation."

With this retaliatory attack, the ball is now in Pakistans court. This is the third time since 2016 that the IAF has struck Pakistani terrorists as a punitive measure. After the Uri attack of 2016, Indian Special Forces had struck several Pakistani terrorist camps. In February 2019, IAF fighter aircraft responded to a major suicide attack that killed at least 40 Indian soldiers in Pulwama, Kashmir, by toss-bombing a Jaish-e-Mohammad terror training camp in Pakistan. In the current instance, the IAF appears to have followed the identical toss-bombing model.

Pakistans next move is a matter of speculation, though whats aired in public can be misleading . Indian defence analysts have cautioned against rushing into any precipitate action.

One analyst said that India should begin by shaping the battlefield and mindsets through strategic messaging" to convince Pakistan of the seriousness of the current situation. In his words, India should send out an announcement that it has increased its annual defence spending by 1% of the countrys gross domestic product."

There is broad public approval in India of the decision to hold in abeyance the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960, placing the onus on Pakistan to create the conditions and goodwill for the release of water by India.

This is a pressure tactic that has not been tried before. It shows that armed action is not all that India has at its disposal. And thats an important point to remember.

The author is a former colonel in the Indian Army.
Cartels have oneand only one raison detre : push prices higher. Opec, the most famous of all of them, is a textbook example. So why is Saudi Arabia, which leads this group of oil producers, driving prices down?

Ostensibly, the kingdom is trying to re-establish discipline among rogue producers: Kazakhstan, Iraq and the UAE are cheating on their output targets. To force them to relent, Riyadh has been voting at Opec+ meetings for higher production for the whole group, hoping that the ensuing price decline forces the cartels troublemakers to fall in line.

The explanation makes a lot of sense. First, because the cheating is real, its getting worse and the unruly countries have ignored warnings. Second, because Saudi Arabia has done it before, launching price wars against Opec cheaters in 1985-86, 1998 and 2020.

Yet, I remain unconvinced thats all theres to it.

Also Read: Crude comfort: Let's not lose sleep over Indias rising oil dependency

To appreciate Saudi oil policy, it always helps to focus on what the kingdom does, rather than on what it sayswhether in public or private. The doing is quite transparent: higher production, which results in lower oil prices. Importantly, Riyadh has made no effort to talk up the market.

In fact, the opposite is true.

In recent days, the Saudis have quietly sent a message to others in Opec and beyond: We can live with low oil prices. Reading between the lines, Riyadh seems to be aiming to keep Brent crude below $70 a barrel, and perhaps even lower, a significant departure from its previous so-called Saudi First policy of sustaining prices as close to $100 as possible.

Understanding the new approach is critical, given the last meeting of eight Opec+ countries, which happened on 5 May. The desire to punish cheaters is one explanation for the shift. But Kazakhstan sounds more like the collateral benefit of a new policy rather than its main reason. Saudi oil policy may have several objectives at once. So here are some educated guesses about Riyadhs key considerations:

Also Read: The unrefined truth about India's crude output decline

First, Arabia has realized its previous policy of as close to $100-a-barrel as possible" was unsustainable, as it would require further production cuts. To sustain high prices, Saudi output last year was its lowest since 2011. If Riyadh had maintained its policy of high prices, it probably wouldnt be able to increase production in either 2025 or 2026. The outlook beyond that in 2027 or 2028looked increasingly difficult for an expansion, potentially condemning Riyadh to lower-forever output.

Second, Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman has long acknowledged, at least in private, that Riyadh had benefited from US sanctions on two Opec+ rivals: Iran and Venezuela. If either was producing anything close to their pre-sanctions level, Saudi Arabia would have long confronted lower prices or lower productionor both. Abdulaziz has also operated under the assumption that the sanctions would not last forever. If Riyadh feels that day is approachingsay because the White House negotiates a deal with Tehranit may help to increase production.

Third, Arabia has also historically battled external producersthe biggest being the US. In 2014-16, it flooded the market to crush US shale producers. Famously, former Saudi oil minister Ali al-Naimi told American drillers in February 2016 they could lower costs, borrow cash or liquidate" in the face of sub-$50-a-barrel prices. But declaring another price war against shale oil players would be politically difficult for Riyadh. Donald Trump appears to want lower oil prices, even if it may hurt its domestic energy industry. But American lawmakers like Senator Ted Cruz of Texas and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, for example may not agree.

Fourth, for nearly a decade, Saudi Arabia has worked closely with Russia. But that relationship feels more transactional than strategic. Russian President Vladimir Putin is courting Trump, and Moscow could one day turn its back on Riyadh. Perhaps the Saudis sense a change in the Kremlins tone and are hedging their bets, increasing production before an actual split emerges.

Also Read: Kuwait Petroleum explores storing crude in Indian strategic reserves

Finally, Riyadh is in talks with the US about several issues: defence guarantees, weapons contracts, Iran and a Saudi civilian nuclear programme. Oil surely plays a role in those talks. Trump is headed for Riyadh this month, making the country part of his second foreign trip (the first one was the unscheduled trip to Rome for the Popes funeral).

Ultimately, many of those considerations will inform the Saudi rationale to let oil prices drop by exercising its clout within Opec+. One of them will be the main driver, while the other gains would be collateral benefits. Keeping Kazakhstan and others in line is more likely among the latter than the former. Bloomberg

The author is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering energy and commodities.
India-Pakistan news, Operation Sindoor: The camp where 26/11 Mumbai terror attack perpetrators trained in Pakistan has been destroyed in Operation Sindoor, officials said on May 7, according to a PTI report.

The nine targets taken down during the operation included four in Pakistan and five in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK). These were identified following intelligence inputs gathered by the Indian Air Force (IAF), the report added.

The terror camps were targetted in precision strikes by India in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terrorist attack that claimed 26 lives on April 22.

Operation Sindoor: JeM, LeT, Hizbul camps among those hit Among the nine target hit included the headquarters of globally banned terror groups Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), besides Hizbul Mujahideen. Camps linked to LeT, where 26/11 attacker Ajmal Kasab trained, and its Muridke HQ which masterminds David Headley and Tahawwur Rana visited, were also struck.

Among the targets hit in the precise operation were Markaz Subhan Allah at Bahawalpur, Sarjal at Tehra Kalan, Markaz Abbas in Kotli and Syedna Bilal camp in Muzaffarabad (all of the banned Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group).

Markaz Taiba at Murdike, Markaz Ahle Hadith at Barnala and Shwawai Nalla camp at Muzaffarabad (all of banned Lashkar-e-Taiba) and Makaz Raheel Shahid in Kotli and Mehmoona Joya in Sialkot (camps and training centres of banned Hizbul Mujahideen) were also struck.

How were Operation Sindoor targets chosen? The selection of targets was done based on extensive intelligence, sources told PTI that the JeM camp at Sarjal Tehra Kalan in Narowal district of Pakistan's Punjab is the main launching pad for the terror group and is operated from a Primary Health Centre. This camp is looked after by de facto chief Abdul Rauf Asgar. This facility, which is located six kilometres from the Samba sector of Jammu, is used for identifying the places and digging of cross-border tunnels for infiltration of terrorists. This launch pad is also used for the operation of drones for arms and narcotics dropping across the border.

The LeT's Shawai Nallah camp at Muzaffarabad in PoK is another important target, where even the 26/11 attackers in Mumbai had received training. It was started in 2000. The Pakistani army and ISI have been frequenting this camp, which can accommodate up to 200-250 terrorists at a time, they said. Terrorists are radicalised and trained at these camps before infiltrating mainly into North Kashmir, they added.

Further, the LeT's Markaz Taiba at Muridke, dubbed as 'terror factor' was a training centre where recruits were brainwashed, given physical training and a two-week-long indoctrination course. Around 1000 students in different courses get enrolled in this camp, they said. This is where Kasab trained.

Markaz Subhanallah at Bahawalpur in Pakistan is the main centre of JeM's training and indoctrination and serves as the operational headquarters of the terror group. The planning of the Pulwama terror strike of February 2019 was done at the camp.

Markaz Abbas camp in Kotli in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir was selected because it is headed by Qari Zarar, a close aide of Asghar, and has a presence of 100-125 Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists. Zarar is wanted by the NIA. This facility is used for infiltration of terrorists from Poonch and Rajouri sectors, and all terror strikes are planned in this camp only, they said.
New Delhi: Union minister of health and family welfare J.P. Nadda on Tuesday highlighted the need for capacity building and sensitization of all cadres of personnel in the public and private sectors regarding fire safety and disaster preparedness in healthcare establishments.

The government commenced the second national workshop on health sector disaster management and fire safety in healthcare facilities in New Delhi.

The efforts are being made to mitigate the risk of fire incidents at hospitals during the summer.

According to media reports, around 66 fire incidents have been reported in hospitals in the Delhi-National Capital Region. However, the numbers could be higher as many incidents are not reported.

The workshop by the health ministrys disaster management cell is being organized to round off activities held as part of Fire Safety Week in coordination with disaster nodal officers from all states and Union territories.

Nadda highlighted the importance of the work and said, We need to make our health facilities more resilient and resistant to disasters and fire incidents. We should focus on the preventive part of the disasters so that uninterrupted, comprehensive and quality health services can be ensured.

The minister said, We work with high-load equipment and highly inflammable materials like oxygen and chemicals that not only save lives but also might cause a hazard. Therefore, there is a need for increased sensitization to them.

He urged contributions from all stakeholders as the responsibility lies not only with the top officials but also with grassroots workers and paramedics.

The government has emphasized the need for regular fire safety audits of institutions and for preventing disasters before they occur.
Mumbai: As India waits for the final draft of its first space law and guidelines for foreign direct investment (FDI) in the space sector, homegrown space startups remain in line to grab larger pieces of the incoming businesses and investments.

Stakeholders of the industry that Mint spoke with, requesting anonymity, said a formalization of Indias operating procedures for space project procurement, coupled with on-paper confirmation of how foreign investors can approach the government for large investments in India in space, can open up a multi-billion-dollar opportunity for the sector, which seeks to quadruple its net annual revenue within eight years.

There is a lot of scope for India to create demand in the domestic space industry internally itself. To do that, a formalized procedure is crucial, which the first space law will help establish. This is a potential setback to the industry, which right now is in a waiting phase of over two years for a formalized set of laws and rules to truly take off," a senior executive of one of Indias top space startups said, requesting anonymity since they work closely with the Union government.

Also read | No imminent change to foreign investment strategy in space: In-Spaces Pawan Goenka

Work, to be sure, is underway. In November, Pawan Goenka, chairman of the Department of Spaces regulatory and promotion body, the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (In-Space), told Mint that the first draft of Indias first space law was almost ready"with the timeline then being pitched for March this year.

On Monday, Goenka said the law is in its final stages, and it will give In-Space formal regulatory powers to represent the domestic space sector. In the long run, the law will enable In-Space to take up tenders for private space startups and play a larger formal role in helping the firms take up global orders.

Law coming soon

The FDI rules are soon to be approved in the coming months. Right now, beyond the automatic FDI route, government approvals for space funding rounds will become much easier when the foreign funding guidelines come in. This will help the domestic space sector attract up to $2.5 billion in foreign investments within the next eight years," Goenka said.

The move is key for India and the growth of its private space industry. In October 2023, Goenka said the domestic space sector can grow to $44 billion in annual revenue within 10 years. On Monday, he estimated that the industry is roughly worth $10 billionindicating a growth of 7% annually since the Department of Space assessed it to be worth $8 billion in 2022.

For India to scale the space industry up to $44 billion by 2033, it would need an annualized growth of 21%a growth thats currently absent in the industry.

Also read | Isros caution shows why space docking is crucial for India's future missions

On Monday, Mint reported that Indias largest space sector funding rounds have been driven by foreign investorsincluding Pixxel and Skyroot Aerospace, which have each raised $95 million in venture capital funding to date. While none have published their valuations so far, two senior space officials said the top firms are worth $250-500 million today.

As a result, the space law and the FDI rules would be crucial for more startups to raise funding at scale.

Space is a capital-intensive sector, which makes the need for a concerted push even more important. What India needs is to either not follow the American way of doing business and create its own internal ecosystem, or enable rules that will let businesses chase large funding rounds and procure foreign business demand at will," said Chaitanya Giri, space fellow at global think tank Observer Research Foundation.

Looking outwards

Narayan Prasad Nagendra, chief operating officer of Dutch space services vendor Satsearch, added that a lack of commercial space demand is creating a conflicted business environment for space startups. With a lack of formalized space laws and rules, Indian space startups are going abroad chasing business opportunities. But, looking for space contracts in mature markets is like attempting to innovate in a saturated market where there are already a hundred competitors. This gives Indias businesses a downright limbo, and bringing in formal paperwork in space laws and rules would give less impetus than Indias space promoter actually creating business opportunities from internal markets," he said.

Nagendra added that with most space economies being closed markets, a key part of the space laws and rules would be to create a clear regulatory environment that would offer a clear diktat for ministry bodies to become clients and generate internal space demand.

Also read | Isro will need new tech to put humans on the moon

There is some concerted push for the space sector to play a larger role in defence surveillance and reconnaissance, which may create a spurt of demand for satellite and infrastructure manufacturers in the space sector. But this needs to happen more regularly," he added.

Goenka, on this note, added that In-Space is creating a framework through which specific sectors will be mandated to approach space startups and procure their services in fields such as agriculture, urban planning, disaster management and more.

For now, though, demand remains low. Firms such as Pixxel and Digantara are serving contracts generated by the US central space agency, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Nasa), while the likes of Skyroot Aerospace and Agnikul Cosmos are yet to hit a regularized rhythm of space launches with their small rockets.
By Shayne Heffernan, May 6, 2025

The Catholic Church is choosing Pope Francis successor after his passing on April 21, 2025, with the conclave starting today. This moment brings to mind a powerful symbol from the Churchs history: the papal tiara. Known as the crown of earth and heaven, the tiara reflects the Churchs authority, blending spiritual and temporal power through its design and materials. Heres a look at its history, its meaning to the Church, and the craftsmanship behind it.



Historical Roots of the Papal Tiara

The papal tiara dates back to the 8th century, starting as a white linen cap called the camelaucum, worn by Popes to show their spiritual role. Under Pope Nicholas I, who reigned from 858 to 867, a single crown was added, marking the Popes control over the Papal Statescentral Italy territories the Church ruled until 1870. Pope Boniface VIII, from 1294 to 1303, added a second crown, showing the Popes dual role as spiritual leader and secular ruler. The third crown came during the Avignon Papacy, likely under Pope Benedict XII, who served from 1334 to 1342, symbolizing authority over heaven, earth, and purgatory, though some say it stood for Europe, Asia, and Africa, the known continents then.

Papal coronations often featured the tiara, with Popes like Paul II, reigning from 1464 to 1471, receiving one with sapphires and pearls, weighing over 10 poundsa heavy reminder of leaderships burden. Pope Pius IX, who served from 1846 to 1878, got a tiara in 1877 from the Palatine Guard, packed with 18,000 stones, including 2,552 diamonds and 1,064 pearls, but its 8-pound weight made it hard to wear, per Vatican records. The last Pope to use a tiara was Paul VI in 1963, who later donated it to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., using the proceeds for the poor. Popes sinceJohn Paul I, John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francischose simpler inauguration Masses, though Benedict XVI kept the tiara in his coat of arms.

Significance to the Catholic Church

The papal tiara represents the Popes threefold authority: as Vicar of Christ, Bishop of Rome, and, in the past, a temporal ruler. The three crowns show this trinityspiritual leadership, pastoral care, and historical political power over the Papal States. In the Middle Ages, the tiara was a clear sign of the Popes sovereignty, matching the crowns of European kings and showing the Churchs broad influence.

The crown of earth and heaven name highlights its dual role: earthly power through Church governance, heavenly power through its divine mission. In the 16th century, during Catholic-Ottoman conflicts like the Battle of Lepanto in 1571, the tiara stood for the Churchs unifying role. Pope Pius V, reigning from 1566 to 1572, wore a tiara while rallying Christian forces to victory, preserving Catholic influence in Europe. That history ties into todays challenges, like building interfaith dialogue in the Middle East, as Ive noted with a possible papal visit to Saudi Arabia this year.

The tiara also connects to spiritual ideas, like the Prophecy of St. Malachy, which predicts a final Pope, Petrus Romanus, leading through tough times. While the new Pope wont wear a tiara, its image in papal heraldry keeps its meaning alive, showing the Churchs role in bridging the earthly and divine.

Materials and Craftsmanship of the Tiara

Papal tiaras were made with materials that matched their sacred and royal purpose. Most used silver or gold, often plated to shine brighter. The three crowns, stacked in a cone shape, were set with gemsdiamonds, sapphires, emeralds, and rubiesin detailed filigree patterns. The 1877 tiara of Pius IX had 2,552 diamonds, 1,064 pearls, and 540 other gems, weighing over 8 pounds, as Vatican records note. A small cross on top symbolized Christs authority, and two lappetslong fabric stripshung from the back, a holdover from the camelaucum.

Some tiaras used lighter materials to ease the weight. The 1804 tiara for Pope Pius VII, crafted by Roman jeweler Giovanni Battista Palamides, had a papier-mache core covered with silver and gold leaf, set with smaller gems. The 1922 tiara of Pope Pius XI used velvet and ermine trim inside for comfort, with gold embroidery on the lappets. These pieces took months to make, with skilled jewelers ensuring each tiara fit the Popes legacy, balancing beauty with meaning.

A Lasting Symbol

The papal tiara isnt used in coronations anymore, but its meaning endures. It shows the Churchs past as a global power, from the Papal States to the modern Vatican, and its spiritual mission to guide humanity. For Knightsbridge, my company, the tiaras balance of earthly and heavenly roles reflects our work in connecting markets through innovation, especially in Asia and the Middle East, where de-dollarization is shifting economic power, as Ive written about. The tiaras history of guiding the Church through challenges, like the Ottoman conflicts, offers a lesson as the Church faces a new chapter with the 2025 conclave.

The papal tiara, a crown of earth and heaven, remains a symbol of the Churchs authority, faith, and lasting impact.
UPDATE: (AP) -- Three former Memphis were acquitted Wednesday of state charges, including second-degree murder, in the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols after he ran away from a traffic stop in 2023.

A jury took about 8 1/2 hours over two days to find Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley and Justin Smith not guilty on all charges after a nine-day trial in state court in Memphis.

The three defendants still face the prospect of years in prison after they were convicted of federal charges last year.

PREVIOUS STORY: (AP)  Jurors deliberated for a second day on Wednesday in the trial of three former Memphis police officers charged with murder in the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols.

The 12-person jury began deliberating Tuesday in the trial of Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley and Justin Smith, who have pleaded not guilty to state charges including second-degree murder. They already face the possibility of years in prison after they were convicted of federal charges last year.

Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man, fled a Jan. 7, 2023, traffic stop after he was yanked out of his car, pepper-sprayed and hit with a Taser. Five officers who are also Black caught up with him and punched, kicked and hit Nichols with a police baton, struggling to handcuff him as he called out for his mother near his home.

Footage of the beating captured by a police pole camera also showed the officers milling about, talking and laughing as Nichols struggled. His death led to nationwide protests, calls for police reforms in the U.S., and intense scrutiny of police in Memphis, a majority-Black city.

The jury for the state trial was chosen in Hamilton County, which includes Chattanooga, after Judge James Jones Jr. ordered the case be heard from people outside of Shelby County, which includes Memphis. Defense lawyers for the officers had argued that intense publicity made seating a fair jury difficult.

The officers are charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct and official oppression. Jurors can also decide to convict on lesser charges.

Prosecutors have argued that the officers used excessive force in trying to handcuff Nichols and were criminally responsible for each others actions. The officers also had a duty to intervene and stop the beating and tell medical personnel that Nichols had been struck in the head, but they failed to do so, prosecutors said.

Former Memphis officers Desmond Mills Jr. and Emmitt Martin also were charged in the case. They have agreed to plead guilty to the state charges and are not standing trial. They already pleaded guilty in federal court, where sentencing for all five officers is pending.

During the trial, defense attorneys refuted accusations that the officers used unnecessary force to subdue Nichols. They argued that Nichols was actively resisting arrest by running away and failing to give his hands to officers so that he could be handcuffed. They also say their use of force complied with police department policies.

Mills testified that he regrets his failure to stop the beating, which led to Nichols death three days later from blunt-force trauma. Dr. Marco Ross, the medical examiner who performed the autopsy, testified that Nichols suffered tears and bleeding in the brain.

Defense attorneys have said the officer who acted with the most violence was Martin, who kicked and punched Nichols several times in the head but is not standing trial.

Mills said Nichols was actively resisting arrest and not complying with orders to present his hands to be cuffed. But Mills also admitted Nichols never punched or kicked any officers.

The five officers were part of a crime suppression team called the Scorpion Unit that was disbanded after Nichols death. The team targeted drugs, illegal guns and violent offenders to amass arrests, while sometimes using force against unarmed people

The trial comes months after the U.S. Justice Department said in December that a 17-month investigation found that the Memphis Police Department uses excessive force and discriminates against Black people.

Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

Jury deliberating fate of former Memphis officers charged in Tyre Nichols' death

PREVIOUS STORY: (AP) -- The fate of three former Memphis police officers charged in the beating of Tyre Nichols was in the hands of 12 people who do not live in the city as jury deliberations began Tuesday in the 29-year-old Black mans death.

The jury began deliberating after a prosecutor and defense lawyers presented closing arguments in the trial of Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley and Justin Smith, who have pleaded not guilty to state charges including second-degree murder. They already face the possibility of years in prison after they were convicted of federal charges last year.

Nichols fled a Jan. 7, 2023, traffic stop after he was yanked out of his car, pepper-sprayed and hit with a Taser. Five officers who are also Black caught up with him and punched, kicked and hit Nichols with a police baton, struggling to handcuff him as he called out for his mother near his home.

Footage of the beating captured by a police pole camera also showed the officers milling about, talking and laughing as Nichols struggled. His death led to nationwide protests, calls for police reforms in the U.S., and intense scrutiny of police in Memphis, a majority-Black city.

The sequestered jury ended its deliberations for the day at around 5 p.m., after having the case for four hours. They will resume Wednesday.

The jury for the state trial was chosen in Hamilton County, which includes Chattanooga, after Judge James Jones Jr. ordered the case be heard from people outside of Shelby County, which includes Memphis. Defense lawyers for the officers had argued that intense publicity made seating a fair jury difficult.

The officers are charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct and official oppression. Prosecutors have argued that the officers used excessive, deadly force in trying to handcuff Nichols and were criminally responsible for each others' actions.

The officers also had a duty to intervene and stop the beating and tell medical personnel that Nichols had been struck in the head, but they failed to do so, prosecutors said.

Two of the five ex-officers have already agreed to plead guilty

Former Memphis officers Desmond Mills Jr. and Emmitt Martin also were charged in the case. They have agreed to plead guilty to the state charges and are not standing trial. They already pleaded guilty in federal court, where sentencing for all five officers is pending.

Defense attorneys have sought to chip away at accusations that the officers used unnecessary force to subdue Nichols. They have argued that Nichols was actively resisting arrest by running away and failing to give his hands to officers so that he could be handcuffed. They also say their use of force complied with police department policies.

Mills testified that he regrets his failure to stop the beating, which led to Nichols death three days later from blunt-force trauma. Dr. Marco Ross, the medical examiner who performed the autopsy, testified that Nichols suffered tears and bleeding in the brain.

As Nichols struggled with Bean and Smith, who were holding him on the ground, Mills tried to pepper-spray Nichols, but he ended up spraying himself, he said.

After stepping away to try to recover, Mills then walked up to Nichols and hit his arm three times with a police baton. Mills told prosecutor Paul Hagerman that he hit Nichols with the baton because he was angry over the pepper spray. Defense attorneys have said the the officer who acted with the most violence was Martin, who kicked and punched Nichols several times in the head but is not standing trial.

Defense attorneys argue that Nichols was resisting arrest

Mills acknowledged on the stand that he had a duty to intervene to stop the beating, but didnt. But Mills also said Nichols was actively resisting arrest and not complying with orders to present his hands to be cuffed.

Martin Zummach, Smiths lawyer, noted in closing arguments that credit and debit cards that did not belong to Nichols were found in his car when it was searched after the beating and said it was likely why Nichols ran from the traffic stop. Defense lawyers have argued that the fatal beating would not have taken place if Nichols had just allowed himself to be handcuffed.

This is Emmitt Martins and Tyre Nichols doing, Zummach said.

Mills acknowledged that the officers were afraid and exhausted, but said wrist locks and the baton strikes complied with police department policies.

Mills admitted Nichols never punched or kicked any officers.

Defense lawyers also claimed Bean and Smith could not see the strikes to Nichols head because they were blinded by pepper spray and they had tunnel vision as they tried to restrain Nichols.

But prosecutors sowed doubt on that claim by pointing to comments the defendants made after the beating. According to footage from the scene, Bean said Nichols was eating the blows and Smith said they hit Nichols with so many pieces, or punches. Smith also said hit him and Haley said beat that man, prosecutor Tanisha Johnson said.

The five officers were part of a crime suppression team called the Scorpion Unit that was disbanded after Nichols' death. The team targeted drugs, illegal guns and violent offenders to amass arrests, while sometimes using force against unarmed people

The trial comes months after the U.S. Justice Department said in December that a 17-month investigation found that the Memphis Police Department uses excessive force and discriminates against Black people.

Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

Jury deliberations begin Tuesday in state trial of former Memphis officers

PREVIOUS STORY: (AP/WRCB)  Deliberations are underway on Tuesday by a jury from Hamilton County in the state trial of three former Memphis officers who are charged in the 2023 death of Tyre Nichols.

Closing arguments started on Monday and ended on Tuesday afternoon.

The fate of the officers is now in the hands of a jury that was chosen in Hamilton County because Judge James Jones Jr. ordered the case be heard from people outside of Shelby County after the defense argued that media attention made it difficult to find a fair jury.

The former officers, Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, and Justin Smith, have pleaded not guilty to state charges including second-degree murder.

Former Memphis officers Desmond Mills Jr. and Emmitt Martin also were charged in the case but they are not standing trial because of a plea deal in which they will plead guilty to the state charges.

Sentencing for all five former officers is pending in federal court.

Stay with Local 3 News for updates to this story.

Closing arguments delivered in trial of 3 officers charged in Tyre Nichols' death

Jurors were expected to begin deliberating Tuesday in the trial of three former Memphis police officers charged with second-degree murder in the beating death of Tyre Nichols in January 2023.

A prosecutor and a defense lawyer delivered closing arguments Monday in the trial of Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley and Justin Smith, who have pleaded not guilty to state charges including second-degree murder. They already face the possibility of years in prison after they were convicted of federal charges last year.

Nichols fled a Jan. 7, 2023, traffic stop after he was yanked out of his car, pepper-sprayed and hit with a Taser. Five officers who are also Black caught up with him and punched, kicked and hit Nichols with a police baton, struggling to handcuff him as he called out for his mother near his home.

Footage of the beating captured by a police pole camera also showed the officers milling about, talking and laughing as Nichols struggled. His death led to nationwide protests, calls for police reforms in the U.S., and intense scrutiny of police in Memphis, a majority-Black city.

The jury for the state trial was chosen in Hamilton County, which includes Chattanooga, after Judge James Jones Jr. ordered the case be heard from people outside of Shelby County, which includes Memphis. Defense lawyers for the officers had argued that intense publicity made seating a fair jury from Shelby County difficult.

Former Memphis officers Desmond Mills Jr. and Emmitt Martin also were charged in the case. They have agreed to plead guilty to the state charges and are not standing trial. They also pleaded guilty in federal court, where sentencing for all five officers is pending.

The officers are charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct and official oppression. Prosecutors have argued that the officers used excessive force in trying to handcuff Nichols. The officers also had a duty to intervene and stop the beating and tell medical personnel that Nichols had been struck in the head, but they failed to do so, prosecutors said.

As Nichols struggled with Bean and Smith, who were holding him on the ground, Mills pepper-sprayed Nichols and hit Nichols three times in the arm with a police baton, he said. Martin punched and kicked Nichols in the head, and Haley also kicked Nichols, as Bean and Smith were restraining him while trying to handcuff him

In her closing argument, prosecutor Melanie Headley said the officers were criminally responsible for Nichols' death.

It's five officers acting together," Headley said.

Defense attorneys have sought to chip away at accusations that the officers used unnecessary force to subdue Nichols. They have argued that Nichols was actively resisting arrest by running away and failing to give his hands to officers so that he could be handcuffed. They also have argued that their use of force complied with police department policies.

Mills testified that he regrets his failure to stop the beating, which led to Nichols death three days later from blunt-force trauma. Dr. Marco Ross, the medical examiner who performed the autopsy, testified that Nichols suffered tears and bleeding in the brain.

John Keith Perry, Bean's lawyer, said in his closing argument that Nichols ignored commands to give officers his hands dozens of times. Bean was merely trying to handcuff Nichols and he followed his Memphis Police Department training in doing so.

Bean doesn't do anything to punish this person, Perry said.

On Tuesday, lawyers for Haley and Smith will make their closing arguments, and the prosecution will have a chance to make a rebuttal closing argument. The jury will then start deliberating.

The five officers were part of a crime suppression team called the Scorpion Unit that was disbanded after Nichols death. The team targeted drugs, illegal guns and violent offenders to amass arrests, while sometimes using force against unarmed people

The trial comes months after the U.S. Justice Department said in December that a 17-month investigation found that the Memphis Police Department uses excessive force and discriminates against Black people.

Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

Expert testifies that repeated strikes to Tyre Nichols' head were unnecessary and excessive

(AP)  A police training expert testifying Saturday as a defense witness in the trial of three former Memphis officers charged in the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols acknowledged that kicks and punches to Nichols' head were unnecessary and excessive.

Don Cameron took the stand in the trial of Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley and Justin Smith, who have pleaded not guilty to state charges including second-degree murder. They already face the prospect of years in prison after they were convicted of federal charges last year.

Cameron and a series of other witnesses testified before defense lawyers rested their case late Saturday. The three officers did not testify in their own defense. The trial resumes Monday with jury instructions and closing arguments.

Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man, fled a January 2023 traffic stop after he was yanked out of his car, pepper-sprayed and hit with a Taser. Five officers who are also Black caught up with him and punched, kicked and hit Nichols with a police baton, struggling to handcuff him as he called out for his mother near his home.

Footage of the beating captured by a police pole camera also showed the officers milling about, talking and laughing as Nichols struggled. His death led to nationwide protests, calls for police reforms in the U.S., and intense scrutiny of police in Memphis, a majority-Black city.

The officers are charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct and official oppression. Prosecutors have argued that the officers used excessive force in trying to handcuff Nichols. The officers also had a duty to intervene and stop the beating and tell medical personnel that Nichols had been struck in the head, but they failed to do so, prosecutors say.

Former Memphis officers Desmond Mills Jr. and Emmitt Martin also were charged in the case. They have agreed to plead guilty to the state charges and are not standing trial. They also pleaded guilty in federal court, where sentencing for all five officers is pending.

Defense attorneys have sought to chip away at accusations that the officers used unnecessary force to subdue Nichols. They have argued that Nichols was actively resisting arrest by running away and failing to give his hands to officers so that he could be handcuffed. They also have argued that their use of force complied with police department policies.

Cameron was called to the stand by the defense lawyer for Haley, who was at the traffic stop and arrived at the location of the beating after Martin kicked and punched Nichols in the head as Nichols was being held by Smith and Bean.

Cameron said Nichols had not yet been handcuffed and Haley used proper force in kicking Nichols once in the arm. The veteran police trainer said Haley kicked Nichols in order to facilitate the handcuffing of Nichols by the other officers.

However, under cross-examination by prosecutor Paul Hagerman, Cameron acknowledged that the punches and kicks by Martin to Nichols' head were unnecessary, excessive and an example of deadly force. Officers who saw those head blows had a duty to intervene and stop the beating at that point, Cameron said.

The prosecutor also asked Cameron about Haley's comment to beat that man as he got out of his car and approached Nichols. Cameron said he believed Haley made the comment in order to get Nichols to comply with being handcuffed after Nichols repeatedly ignored expletive-laced orders to do so.

The defense has said that the officers vision was impaired because of the repeated deployment of pepper spray. Martin Zummach, Smiths lawyer, asked Cameron if officers have a duty intervene if they dont actually see unnecessary force being applied.

If they cant see it, they cant intervene, Cameron said.

Mills, who hit Nichols three times with a police baton, testified Tuesday that he regrets his failure to stop the beating, which led to Nichols death three days later from blunt-force trauma. Dr. Marco Ross, the medical examiner who performed the autopsy, testified Wednesday that Nichols suffered tears and bleeding in the brain.

The five officers were part of a crime suppression team called the Scorpion Unit that since has been disbanded. The team targeted drugs, illegal guns and violent offenders with the goal of amassing arrests, while sometimes using force against unarmed people

The trial comes months after the U.S. Justice Department said in December that a 17-month investigation found that the Memphis Police Department uses excessive force and discriminates against Black people.

Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

Investigator: Ex-Memphis officer took photo of Tyre Nichols after fatal beating, shared it 11 times

PREVIOUS STORY: (AP)  A cybercrime expert with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation testified Wednesday that a former Memphis police officer charged in the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols took a cellphone photo of Nichols as he struggled with serious injuries.

TBI Special Agent Derek Miller testified in the trial of Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley and Justin Smith, who have pleaded not guilty to state charges including second-degree murder. They already face the prospect of years in prison after they were convicted of federal charges last year.

Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man, fled a January 2023 traffic stop after he was yanked out of his car, pepper sprayed and hit with a Taser. Five officers who are also Black caught up with him and punched, kicked and hit Nichols with a police baton, struggling to handcuff him as he called out for his mother near his home.

Footage of the beating captured by a police pole camera also showed the officers milling about, talking and laughing as Nichols struggled. His death led to nationwide protests, calls for police reforms in the U.S., and intense scrutiny of police in Memphis, a majority-Black city.

Photo was shared 11 times

Video shows Haley taking a photo of Nichols, who was seated on the ground and leaning against a police car after the beating. Haley shared the photo 11 times and had text conversations with eight people about it, Miller said.

The officers are charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct and official oppression. Prosecutors have argued that the officers had a duty to intervene and stop the beating and tell medical personnel that Nichols had been struck in the head, but they failed to do so.

Former Memphis officers Desmond Mills Jr. and Emmitt Martin also were charged in the case. They have agreed to plead guilty to the state charges and are not standing trial. They also pleaded guilty in federal court, where sentencing for all five officers is pending.

Ex-officer acknowledges duty to intervene

Defense attorneys have sought to chip away at accusations that the officers used unnecessary force to subdue Nichols. They've argued that Nichols was actively resisting arrest by running away and failing to give his hands to officers so that he could be handcuffed. They also have argued that their use of force complied with police department policies.

Mills testified Tuesday that he regrets his failure to stop the beating, which led to Nichols death three days later from blunt force trauma. Dr. Marco Ross, the medical examiner who performed the autopsy, testified Wednesday that Nichols suffered tears and bleeding in the brain.

As Nichols struggled with Bean and Smith, who were holding him on the ground, Mills pepper-sprayed Nichols and hit Nichols three times in the arm with a police baton, he said. Martin punched and kicked Nichols in the head, and Haley also kicked Nichols.

Defense testimony begins

Wednesday afternoon, defense attorney Martin Zummach questioned TBI Special Agent Charles Baker, who testified that Nichols' car was searched after the beating and authorities found credit cards, debit cards and identifications that did not belong to Nichols.

Meanwhile, Kelli Rogers, a resident of the Memphis suburb of Arlington, testified that her wallet containing her ID and credit cards was stolen from her car in 2022. Rogers said she was recently informed that one of her credit cards was found in the car and that she did not know Nichols.

Officers who pulled Nichols over said they did so because he was speeding and driving recklessly, but they did not know about the items found in his car.

Hagerman, the prosecutor, asked Baker if the discovery of the IDs and credit cards influenced how the TBI investigated the assault case.

Say everything in that car was stolen, it still has no bearing on the seriousness of the case I was asked to investigate, Baker said.

Zummach then asked Baker if it was reasonable to conclude that Nichols was resisting arrest and wanted to get away from the vehicle because he may have had evidence of crime in his car.

It could be, Baker said.

Baker also testified that mushrooms containing the hallucinogen psilocybin were found in the car. Ross, the medical examiner, testified Nichols did not have the hallucinogen in his system.

Former Memphis officer Preston Hemphill, who was at the traffic stop but not the location of the beating, testified that he heard Martin say let go of my gun after Nichols was forcibly removed from his car. It is not clear in the video whether Nichols actually tried to grab Martin's gun.

Hemphill said that statement increased the risk to officers as high as it could go.

Hemphill fired his Taser at Nichols during the traffic stop. After Nichols fled, Hemphill could be heard on his body camera video saying: I hope they stomp his ass.

Hemphill was fired from the police force but was not criminally charged.

Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

Ex-officer says he regrets his failure to stop the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols

PREVIOUS STORY: (AP)  Former Memphis police officer Desmond Mills Jr. testified Tuesday that he regrets his failure to stop the beating of Tyre Nichols after Nichols ran away from a traffic stop in 2023.

Mills' testimony came in the second day of the trial of Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley and Justin Smith, who have pleaded not guilty to state charges including second-degree murder in the death of Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man who was beaten as he cried out for his mother just steps from his home. The three defendants already face the prospect of years behind bars after they were convicted of federal charges last year.

Footage of the beating was captured by a police pole camera and also showed the officers milling about, talking and laughing as Nichols struggled. Nichols' death led to national protests, raised the volume on calls for police reforms in the U.S. and directed intense scrutiny toward the police force in Memphis, a majority-Black city.

Mills pleaded guilty to federal charges last year and has entered into an agreement to plead guilty to state charges as well.

Mills says he hit Nichols out of anger after pepper-spraying himself

During his testimony Tuesday, Mills said he and Bean responded to a Jan. 7, 2023, police radio call that a man had run away from a traffic stop after he was pepper-sprayed and hit with a Taser. Nichols saw the two officers and ran away from them, and Bean eventually caught Nichols after a foot chase, Mills testified.

When Mills arrived at Nichols location, Nichols was struggling with Bean and Smith, who were holding Nichols on the ground, Mills said. Mills then tried to pepper-spray Nichols, but he ended up spraying himself, which made him angry, Mills said.

After stepping away to try to recover, Mills then walked up to Nichols and hit him three times in the arm with a police baton as Bean and Smith were holding Nichols, Mills said.

Mills told prosecutor Paul Hagerman that he hit Nichols with the baton because he was angry. Another officer, Emmitt Martin, arrived and punched and kicked Nichols in the head.

Nichols died three days after the beating. Mills acknowledged on the stand that he had a duty to intervene to stop it, but didnt.

Do you regret that? the prosecutor said.

Yes, Mills said.

Mills also acknowledged that he did not tell paramedics that Nichols had been repeatedly hit in the head and later failed to give police supervisors details of the beating because he didnt want to get in trouble.

Under the plea agreements, Mills state sentence will be the same length as his federal term, which could reach up to life in prison, though federal prosecutors have recommended a 15-year sentence. He would serve the state sentence at the same time as his federal term in prison.

In opening statements Monday, prosecutor Paul Hagerman said Nichols was being held by his arms by two of the officers as he was punched and kicked and hit with a police baton.

Hagerman said the officers helped each other beat Nichols to death. An autopsy showed Nichols died three days after the beating of blunt force trauma.

He said the officers had a duty to stop the beating but none of them did so. They were overcome by the moment, the prosecutor said.

Defense attorney says Nichols was resisting arrest the whole time

In his opening statement, Beans attorney said the situation became high risk when Nichols continued driving for about 2 miles (3.2 km) after one of the officers turned on his vehicles blue lights in an attempt to stop Nichols for speeding. Nichols then failed to follow orders to give officers his hands so that he could be handcuffed, Perry said.

He was actually resisting arrest the whole time, Perry said, adding that the officers just wanted to do their job effectively.

Both Smith and Haley called for medical aid the night of the beating, their lawyers said.

The jury for the state trial was chosen in Hamilton County, which includes Chattanooga, after Judge James Jones Jr. ordered the case be heard from people outside of Shelby County, which includes Memphis. Defense lawyers for the officers had argued that intense publicity made seating a fair jury difficult.

The officers are charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct and official oppression.

Mills and Martin were also charged but will not stand trial with their former colleagues due to their agreements to testify. Sentencings for all five officers in the federal case is expected after the state trial.

The five officers were part of a crime suppression team called the Scorpion Unit that has since been disbanded. The team targeted drugs, illegal guns and violent offenders with the goal of amassing arrests, while sometimes using force against unarmed people.

In December, the U.S. Justice Department said a 17-month investigation showed the Memphis Police Department uses excessive force and discriminates against Black people.

Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

Former Memphis officers were frustrated when they fatally beat Tyre Nichols, prosecutor says

PREVIOUS STORY: (AP)  Three former Memphis police officers were frustrated, angry and full of adrenaline when they fatally beat Tyre Nichols after he ran away from a traffic stop in 2023, a prosecutor said Monday during opening arguments in their trial on second-degree murder charges.

Prosecutor Paul Hagerman showed the jury video of the beating in the trial of Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley and Justin Smith, who have pleaded not guilty to state charges. The three already face the prospect of years behind bars after they were convicted of federal charges last year.

A police pole camera captured the beating just steps from the home where Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man, lived with his mother and stepfather. That footage led to national protests, raised the volume on calls for police reforms in the U.S. and directed intense scrutiny toward the police force in Memphis, a majority-Black city.

It doesnt take monsters to kill a man,' prosecutor says

Police video showed officers pepper-spraying Nichols and hitting him with a Taser before he ran away from the traffic stop on Jan. 7, 2023. The five officers, who are all Black, chased Nichols and caught him just steps from his home, and then beat him as he called out for his mother. The video showed the officers milling about, talking and laughing as Nichols struggled.

State trial begins for former Memphis police officers charged in death of Tyre Nichols The proceedings mark a pivotal moment in a case that has drawn national scrutiny since Nichols died following a violent encounter with officers during a traffic stop in January 2023.

Hagerman said Nichols was being held by his arms by two of the officers as he was punched and kicked and hit with a police baton. After the beating, as a severely injured Nichols sat on the ground, officers failed to tell medical personnel that Nichols had been hit in the head, the prosecutor said.

Hagerman said the officers helped each other beat Nichols to death. An autopsy showed Nichols died three days after the beating of blunt force trauma.

He said the officers had a duty to stop the beating but none of them did so. They were overcome by the moment, the prosecutor said.

Nobody is going to call them monsters, Hagerman said. It doesnt take monsters to kill a man.

A defense attorney says Nichols was resisting arrest

In his opening statement, Beans attorney said the officer responded to a call that police were looking for a man who had fled a traffic stop and had been pepper-sprayed and hit with a Taser. Bean, who was not at the initial stop, saw Nichols, turned on his body camera, and chased him down, said attorney John Keith Perry.

Perry said the situation became high risk when Nichols continued driving for about 2 miles (3.2 km) after one of the officers turned on his vehicles blue lights in an attempt to stop Nichols for speeding. Nichols then failed to follow orders to give officers his hands so that he could be handcuffed, Perry said.

He was actually resisting arrest the whole time, Perry said, adding that the officers just wanted to do their job effectively.

The jury for the state trial was chosen in Hamilton County, which includes Chattanooga, after Judge James Jones Jr. ordered the case be heard from people outside of Shelby County, which includes Memphis. Defense lawyers for the officers had argued that intense publicity made seating a fair jury difficult.

The officers are charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct and official oppression.

Two others expected to change their not guilty pleas

Two other officers, Emmitt Martin and Desmond Mills Jr., also have been charged but will not stand trial with their former colleagues. Martin and Mills are expected to change their not guilty pleas in state court, according to lawyers involved in the case. Sentencings for all five officers in the federal case is expected after the state trial.

After Nichols' death, the five officers were fired, charged in state court and indicted by a federal grand jury on civil rights and witness tampering charges.

Martin and Mills pleaded guilty to the federal charges under deals with prosecutors. The other three officers were convicted in October of witness tampering related to the cover-up of the beating. Bean and Smith were acquitted of civil rights charges of using excessive force and being indifferent to Nichols serious injuries.

Haley was acquitted of violating Nichols civil rights causing death, but he was convicted of two lesser charges of violating his civil rights causing bodily injury.

On Monday, Martin Zummach, Smiths lawyer, described Smith as a kind and gentle person who always wanted to be a police officer. He pointed blame at Emmitt Martin, who punched Nichols multiple times and crushed the brain of Nichols.

Michael Stengel, Haleys lawyer, told the jury that Haley kicked Nichols once in the upper arm, but he did not break police department policies in doing so. Haley engaged in policing that evening that was ugly and dirty, but he did not commit a crime, Stengel said.

Both Smith and Haley called for medical aid the night of the beating, their lawyers said.

In December, the U.S. Justice Department said a 17-month investigation showed the Memphis Police Department uses excessive force and discriminates against Black people.

The department is more than 50% Black and Police Chief Cerelyn CJ Davis is Black.

The five officers were part of a crime suppression team called the Scorpion Unit that since has been disbanded. The team targeted drugs, illegal guns and violent offenders with the goal of amassing arrests, while sometimes using force against unarmed people.

Jury chosen in Hamilton Co. for state trial of former Memphis officers charged in Tyre Nichols' death

PREVIOUS STORY: MEMPHIS (AP)  Three former Tennessee police officers face an out-of-town jury as their trial in state court started Monday on second-degree murder charges in the beating death of Tyre Nichols after a 2023 traffic stop in Memphis.

Opening statements began in the trial of former Memphis Police Department officers Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley and Justin Smith, who have pleaded not guilty and already face the prospect of years behind bars after they were convicted of federal charges last year.

The prosecution went first and then the defense began with its opening arguments.

The beating of Nichols, a Black man, was caught on police video and led to national protests, raised the volume on calls for police reforms in the U.S. and directed intense scrutiny toward the police force in Memphis, a majority-Black city.

The jury for the state trial was chosen in Hamilton County, which includes Chattanooga, after Judge James Jones Jr. ordered the case be heard from people outside of Shelby County, which includes Memphis. Defense lawyers for the officers had argued intense publicity made seating a fair jury difficult.

The officers are charged with second degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct and official oppression.

UPDATE: Jury selection process for Tyre Nichols' murder trial begins in Hamilton County A judge has ruled that a jury from outside of Memphis will be seated in the state court trial of three former police officers charged with second-degree murder in the 2023 beating death of Tyre Nichols after a traffic stop.

Two other officers, Emmitt Martin and Desmond Mills Jr., also have been charged but will not stand trial with their former colleagues. Martin and Mills are expected to change their not guilty pleas in state court, according to lawyers involved in the case. Sentencings for all five officers in the federal case is expected after the state trial.

Police video showed officers pepper-spraying Nichols, 29, and hitting him with a Taser before he ran away from the traffic stop on Jan. 7, 2023. The five officers, who all are Black, chased down Nichols and kicked, punched and hit him with a police baton just steps from his home as he called out for his mother. The video showed the officers milling about, talking and laughing as Nichols struggled.

Nichols died three days after the beating. The five officers were fired, charged in state court and indicted by a federal grand jury on civil rights and witness tampering charges.

Martin and Mills pleaded guilty to the federal charges under deals with prosecutors. The other three officers were convicted in October of witness tampering related to the cover-up of the beating. Bean and Smith were acquitted of civil rights charges of using excessive force and being indifferent to Nichols serious injuries.

Haley was acquitted of violating Nichols civil rights causing death, but he was convicted of two lesser charges of violating his civil rights causing bodily injury.

In December, the U.S. Justice Department said a 17-month investigation showed the Memphis Police Department uses excessive force and discriminates against Black people.

The department is more than 50% Black and Police Chief Cerelyn CJ Davis is Black.

The five officers were part of a crime suppression team called the Scorpion Unit that since has been disbanded. The team targeted drugs, illegal guns and violent offenders with the goal of amassing arrests, while sometimes using force against unarmed people.

Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Local people gathered recently for a thanksgiving service for Church of Ireland Lay Pastor, Ruth Galbraith who is retiring after eight years service in the Ardagh Union of Parishes.

A sizeable gathering of parishioners came together on Sunday, April 27 at the Lecture Hall in Kenagh near St Georges Church of Ireland for a special thanksgiving service.

Ms Galbraith who served people living in the Ardagh-Kenagh-Ballymahon -Tashinny area said she enjoyed her eight years and it was a

"It was an absolute privilege and a joy to be in the parish with the parishioners for eight years, they were just so welcoming and supportive.

Also Read: Centenary celebration: Longford secondary school hosting big past pupils reunion

"There had initially been four parishes and during that time we had them become one parish with four churches.

Ms Galbraith described it as a lovely gathering organised by Bishop Ferran Glenfield and a special brochure booklet was also produced.

"The Bishop preached, there was a children's talk that I would have led, we had the children singing and the usual sort of service of prayers and reading."

The MC was George Farrell and Myrtle Kenny spoke on behalf of the parish while several presentations were made to Ms Galbraith.

Also Read: Bon Voyage: Community wishes Longford man well as he heads off on Australian adventure

"It was a lovely gathering and they were all incredibly kind," Ms Galbraith added.

The departing lay pastor was presented with a photograph of her and Bishop Ferran Glenfield, a picture of the four churches, a swan made of Longford bog oak by Kevin Casey and with flowers by Tashinny National School.

Ms Galbraith was also gifted a poem written by parishioners, which was made into a little booklet in conjunction with their diocesan magazine.

"One of the special things was that the bishop called forward the various different ministries, the lay ministries and the priests that were in that, including Father Brian Brennan to lay hands on me while he pronounced the Aramaic blessing.

"That was rather lovely, she added.

Ms Galbraith said it was a 'very personal' service.

Also Read: Parents launch huge fundraising appeal to help refresh interior of Longford primary school

It was a lovely gathering.

I would say virtually everybody in the parish was there who was able to be there, she added.

Ms Galbraith said there were eight parish readers in attendance along with Canon Janet and Canon David Catterall who would have once a month celebrated Holy Communion.

That is because being lay, I can lead services and preach, but I can't celebrate Holy Communion or baptisms or weddings and so on.

They helped out very much and previously it would have been Canon Trevor Sullivan.

Ms Galbraith, who lives in Dublin, began travelling to the parish in February 2017 after taking up the role a few months after the conclusion of several years teaching at Sligo Grammar School.

Also Read: Longford man wins an impressive new set of wheels in a well-known online raffle

"I had been what would have been called a diocesan reader, and Bishop Glenfield invited me because there wasn't a possibility of an incumbent person who was full-time and ordained when Canon Bertie Kingston left.

Ms Galbraith travelled to the Ardagh Union of Parishes every second weekend and she explained her administerial duties could be completed remotely when she was not there in-person.

During her eight year term, Ms Galbraith was tasked with with responsibilities for spiritual and pastoral affairs in the union, but also to be a 'go-to' person.

There was certain things that I couldn't do because I wasn't actually ordained, I would ensure they were sorted and I would get somebody for them."

They could not have made it in any way more special. And the fact that Bishop Glenfield had gone to a lot of trouble to organise a lovely service in conjunction with us and to come was the icing on the cake, she concluded.
Deputy Carrigy has praised the scheme, which is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union, for continuing to deliver meaningful investment in Longford and the wider Midlands.

This is a fantastic boost for County Longford and for local tourism and community development, said Deputy Carrigy. These investments will help us grow sustainable tourism experiences in rural areas, support job creation, and enhance what Longford has to offer to both domestic and international visitors.

He paid tribute to his Fine Gael colleague, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke TD, who has been instrumental in delivering this investment as part of the Governments commitment to supporting communities impacted by the transition away from peat-based industries.

Also Read: Centenary celebration: Longford secondary school hosting big past pupils reunion

The four Longford-based projects are part of a broader package which includes 13 private and community SME-led initiatives and 2 Local Authority/State Agency projects, spanning categories such as: Development or enhancement of sustainable visitor experiences, Low carbon tourist accommodation, Capital planning and design for tourism development, And accessibility enhancements to support inclusive tourism.

The four Longford-based businesses are: Ballymahon Cycles: 64,878 to expand and diversify its bicycle fleet, making its offering more inclusive for all visitors.Croghan Hill Glamping: 80,776 for the delivery of eco-friendly glamping pods.Killashee Eco Lodge: 210,000 for new self-catering accommodation, a thermal suite featuring Irish peat baths, and a recreation area.

Firecracker Sauna (Aughnacliff): 19,331 for the development of a wood-fired lakeside sauna at Lough Leebeen.

Evaluations of remaining applications are still ongoing, with additional funding announcements expected in the coming weeks.

Also Read: Bon Voyage: Community wishes Longford man well as he heads off on Australian adventure

Deputy Carrigy concluded: Todays funding is a testament to the strength of the ideas and commitment within Longfords tourism sector. I will continue working with Failte Ireland, Minister Burke, and local stakeholders to ensure Longford receives its fair share of future investment.

Todays announcement is part of a wider 4.2 million investment in 15 tourism projects across the Midlands. Further successful projects under the scheme are expected to be announced over the coming weeks.
Two former students of Mean Scoil Mhuire, Longford have been awarded a prestigious All-Ireland Scholarship, sponsored by JP McManus, in recognition of their exceptional Leaving Certificate results in 2024.

Khadija Mahmood and Naida Daugelaite were honoured at a memorable ceremony which was held on Friday, April 25 in the Concert Hall at the University of Limerick.

Khadija and Naida, who were accompanied by Mean Scoil Mhuire principal Ms Siobhan Cullen, received their award from Minister for Arts, Culture, Communications, Media and Sport Patrick ODonovan TD and JP McManus.

This distinguished scholarship includes a financial bursary to support Khadija and Naida throughout their academic journey.

Khadija intends to pursue Medicine, driven by her passion for helping others and her love for science.

Also Read: Longford woman reflects on the legacy of Pope Francis: 'Build Bridges not walls'

Naida is currently studying Mathematics at University College Dublin and is excited to see where her passion for Mathematics will take her in the future.

Warmest congratulations to Khadija and Naida, their families and teachers on this outstanding achievement.

Everyone at Mean Scoil Mhuire is absolutely delighted for Khadija and Naida and wishes them continued success in their studies and beyond.

The 2024 All Ireland Scholarships were awarded to 125 outstanding students from across the 32 counties.

The All Ireland Scholarships provide important financial support, ensuring recipients can fully engage in all aspects of university life by easing the financial burdens often associated with pursuing third-level education and beyond.

Since the programmes inception, 1,674 scholarships have been awarded, with 1,348 recipients successfully completing their primary and post-graduate degrees.

Also Read: Perfect Frame of Mind: Film by talented Longford student shortlisted for national award

The success of the programme is evident not only in the growing number of recipients but also in the formation of the All Ireland Scholarships Alumni Association in 2017.
It has been 20 years since the tragic death of twenty-year-old Owen Kelly.

Owen was a widely beloved young man from Lanesboro, he was well-known across the county and beyond for his great sense of humour, his loyalty and his incredible work ethic. Owen passed away on 15 May 2005, 20 years on, his loss still leaves those who knew and loved him heartsick.

This year a his older brother and younger sister alongside a group of Owens closest friends are hosting a tractor run in his honour, the proceeds of which will be going to two charities, the National Rehabilitation Centre and the Head Injury Unit at Beaumont Hospital.

The tractor run will be taking place on Sunday 18 May at 2:30 pm.

Mary Kelly, Owens mother has been promoting the event in her sons honour.

Also Read: Congratulations: Longford student honoured with top award from Technoteachers Association

His friends have been talking about doing it for years, it would have been on his 40th last year but it didnt come to pass, said Mary, They decided were not letting the 20th Anniversary pass without having it.

Owen was a very lively joyful character, hard-working, and he had a great sense of humour.

He was two months off his 21st birthday when he died.

The tractor run is the perfect way to honour Owens memory says his mother, as he loved tractors and all kinds of machinery.

He loved tractors and machinery, yes, said Mary, He worked with Laing ORourke in Dublin, he was a concrete technician so he would have been driving big machines.

He was only with them now 14 months before he died but he absolutley loved tractors.

Also Read: Perfect Frame of Mind: Film by talented Longford student shortlisted for national award

Dont ask him to study with books, she laughed But he did well in another field.

Owen had been out driving tractors with farmers, hed be doing silage and hay making and wrapping bales, you name it.

Hed be gone in the early hours of the morning in the summertime doing all this kind of work.

He absolutely loved it.

In fact Owen loved JCB tractors especially. He had bought one of his own to use on the work site and was very excited for its arrival.

That was one of his favourite tractors. He actually bought one but it never got to the house here.

Also Read: 'It's a challenge': Longford TD Micheal Carrigy to chair Oireachtas housing committee

He was killed in the early hours of Sunday morning. It was to come that Sunday, she said, with a slight rattle in her voice, the emotions of the memory coming to the surface.

Bravely, she continued, He had asked his boss if he could buy this tractor and put it on the building site that he was working on.

But it never happened.

There was a before she spoke again. Just from one conversation you can glean how much strength Mary has, and the infinite love she has for Owen as well as her son Edward and daughter Therese.

That was 20 years ago and its still very raw.

He was a fine young man, he was six foot three and full of life and bubbly and always had time for others.

While Owen and his older brother Edward, were seemingly complete opposites personality-wise, like chalk and cheese as Mary says, their friendship and the loyalty they had to one another was unmatched. And their younger sister, Therese who was just 14 when Owen passed away and was so loved by him.

Also Read: Longford man wins an impressive new set of wheels in a well-known online raffle

His friends, for 20 years have been very loyal to us and to his brother and sister.

Theyve never forgotten him at anniversaries or his birthdays.

And, of course, were very loyal when he died, they showed great respect and dignity with his removal and funeral and helped in every way.

Anyone who wishes to contribute can do so here: https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/CashelGAARun4Pieta1
A Longford farm family have been crowned Irish winners of a European Grassland Award.

Patrick and Michelle ONeill from Firmount, Mostrim were among the top European Grassland farmers who were honoured, as part of the Grazing4AgroEcology thematic network project hosted in the Teagasc Animal and Grassland, Research and Innovation Centre in Moorepark, Fermoy, Co Cork.

PICTURES | Informative and successful Teagasc walk on the land of award winning Longford farmer

Eight award winners were selected from their national award networks.

The Irish winners were Patrick and Michelle, the Overall Winners of the Sustainable Grassland Farmer of the Year 2023 competition organised by the Grass10 programme.

Also read: Longford farmer scoops Sustainable Grassland Farmer of the Year

All the award winners had adapted their grassland systems in recent years and winners had positively improved their grassland systems.

The awards ceremony was the conclusion of a two-day Young Farmers tour and project meeting which centred on visiting commercial and research farms across the country.

PICTURES | Longford's inaugural WAL Fest celebrates creativity, community and connection

The Grazing4AgroEcology project has a multi-actor network focused on supporting farmers in optimising grazing for the environment, animals and society, while producing healthy food with less impact on natural resources.

While grazing is generally declining in Europe, many of the farmers in the project have established suitable avenues to optimise grassland management, and at the same time contributing to ecological diversity and generating a positive image of grassland systems.

The eight national award winners were:

France - Kevin Helibert - Improving grazing infrastructures

Germany - Heiko Stelling  Moving from zero-grazing to full-day grazing

Netherlands  Renshe Weitkamp - Grazing4AgroEcology in practice

Romania - Cristian Echim - Rotational grazing in an organic system

Portugal - Fernando Luis Vasconcelos  Using GPS Collars

Sweden - Anna and Anders Carlsson  Managing a well-defined grazing system

Ireland - Patrick and Michelle O'Neill - Low Chemical Nitrogen/High Clover grazing System

Italy - Sabine Widmann - Optimising farm management with closed nutrient cycles and direct marketing

The Grazing4AgroEcolgy thematic project is led by the Gruenlandzentrum Research Centre in Bremen Germany by Dr Arno Krause.

Professor Michael ODonovan, Teagasc Moorepark commented, "this event really shows how innovative and adaptive grassland farmers must be. Some of the climatic challenges that they manage through are tough, however all the winners have shown themselves to be excellent grassland farmers, and hugely respected in their countries."

PICTURES | Longford revellers enjoy a super hooley at The Hill Top Festival in Aughnacliffe

Over 70 young farmers attended the two-day event.

Kieran McCarthy Grazing4AgroEcology Project researcher with Teagasc commented; The interest from the Young Farmers in Irish gazing systems shows that there are plenty of aspects that Irish and European grassland systems have in common  grazing infrastructure kept coming up as an area to improve on farms."

Sweden and Germany had the largest attendance of young farmers which shows continued interest in grassland systems in those countries.
An Indian Air Force Sukhoi Su-30MKI landing at Subang as a stopover after Exercise Pitch Black 2018. (Jeang Herng/Shutterstock)

The Indian military launched a series of air and missile strikes overnight against what it described as nine terrorist training camps inside Pakistan. The operations were in response to the April 22 terrorist attack in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir that killed 26 tourists. Pakistan has responded with artillery attacks along the Line of Control that divides the Indian- and Pakistani-controlled portions of the disputed Kashmir region.

The Indian military used missiles and warplanes to target nine terrorist training camps in Sialkot, Muridke, and Bahawalpur in Punjab province, and Muzaffarabad, Bagh, and Kolti in the Pakistan-administered Azad Kashmir region. India claimed that the strikes killed 70 terrorists in camps operated by Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), and Hizbul Mujahideen. Muridke is the home of the Markaz-e-Taiba, the sprawling terror complex run by Lashkar-e-Taiba.

All three terror groups are listed by the US government as Foreign Terrorist Organizations. These groups, and others, operate openly in Pakistan with the support of the Pakistani state. LeT, under the guise of the Resistance Front, launched the deadly April 22 attack near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir that targeted Hindu tourists and killed 26 civilians. India claims it has direct evidence to link LeT to the Pahalgam attack.

The Embassy of India in Washington, DC, released a statement on the military action in Pakistan, describing the operation as focused and precise.

They (Indias strikes in Pakistan) were measured, responsible and designed to be non-escalatory in nature, Indias embassy stated. No Pakistani civilian, economic or military targets have been hit. Only known terror camps were targeted.

The Indian embassy also said that Pakistan has indulged in denial and made allegations of false flag operations against India and refused to act against LeT after the Pahalgam terror attack.

Pakistan denied that the Indian strikes targeted terror camps, instead claiming that most of the strikes hit mosques, and all of the individuals killed and wounded were civilians. Additionally, the Pakistani military claimed that it shot down five Indian warplanesthree Rafale fighters, a SU-30, and a MiG-29. The Indian military denied this claim, and Pakistan has not produced evidence of downed warplanes.

Clashes along the border

Immediately after Indias air and missile strikes, the militaries of both countries exchanged artillery fire along the Line of Control. There have been no reports of ground incursions by either country at this time.

Pakistan and India have been in similar situations after Pakistani terror groups launched attacks within Indian territory in the recent past. On September 29, 2016, Indian commandos raided terror camps in Pakistan-held Kashmir in retaliation for the September 17 attack by the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed on an Indian Army base in Uri. Seventeen Indian soldiers were killed in the terrorist attack. The two countries exchanged fire, but the situation ultimately de-escalated.

However, India did not take military action against Pakistan after LeT suicide teams launched a three-day terror assault against numerous civilian targets in Mumbai in 2008, killing more than 170 people. Additionally, India did not respond militarily after LeT and JeM attacked the Indian Parliament in December 2001.

The most recent direct clashes risk a significant escalation between the two regional nuclear powers. However, Pakistan and India have previously de-escalated after coming to blows over Pakistani state-sponsored terrorism, ultimately standing down after a series of limited military exchanges, diplomatic disputes, and posturing.

Bill Roggio is a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the Editor of FDD's Long War Journal.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz speaks to members of the IDFs 162nd Division on May 7. (Ariel Hermoni/Israel Ministry of Defense)

On May 4, Israels Security Cabinet approved plans for a new offensive in Gaza. The multi-stage plan envisions the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) capturing and seizing territory in Gaza and staying for the long term. The approach contrasts with 2024 operations in which the Israeli military entered areas such as Khan Younis or Jabaliya and then left after weeks or months of fighting.

The new operation, Gideons Chariots, is expected to begin after President Donald Trump visits the Middle East in mid-May. This window gives Hamas the chance to agree to a hostage deal within the next week.

On May 7, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz met with members of the IDFs 162nd Division to discuss the upcoming operation. The 162nd Division did much of the heavy lifting in Gaza between October 2023 and February 2025, serving 500 days on the front line.

Israel has sent out call-ups to reservists as it prepares for the new offensive. Reports say that tens of thousands of reservists are being called up, a fraction of the 300,000 who activated after Hamass attack on October 7, 2023. Israeli reservists saw many months of service in 2024, straining the military system. Historically, they do not serve for more than several weeks a year.

The operation is intended to defeat Hamas and bring about the release of all the hostages. We will operate with great force to destroy all of Hamass military and governmental capabilities, Katz told the 162nd, according to a statement from his office. The IDF will remain in any area that is conquered, and the entire Gazan population will be evacuated to areas in southern Gaza.

Katz also noted that the plan allows for Hamas to accept the Witkoff model, which is the deal that US envoy Steven Witkoff proposed after the first phase of the January 2025 ceasefire ended in March. Katz said that when the new campaign begins, Israel will not stop until all objectives are achieved.

The new plan combines elements of Israels existing objectives in Gazafreeing the hostages and defeating Hamas military and governance capabilitieswith new initiatives. One initiative is the decision to evacuate the entire population of Gaza towards the southern portion of the territory. In the past, the IDF has asked Gazans to leave before Israeli forces raid various neighborhoods. This approach had the effect of displacing hundreds of thousands of people to a humanitarian zone near the coast. However, residents would often trickle back to their neighborhoods.

The new plan seeks to separate the civilians from Hamas, whereas in the past, the civilians always moved to areas that were under Hamass rule. A new humanitarian aid delivery mechanism is also part of the plan, with the goal of keeping aid from ending up in the hands of Hamas. A sterile area in southern Gaza between the Morag Corridor the IDF captured in March and the Rafah border with Egypt will be created.

Another significant element of the new plan is that the IDF will remain in portions of Gaza. Reports say the IDF intends to clear areas, as it did in Rafah, but then stay in them. In Rafah, parts of the city were razed to create a secure zone near the Egyptian border. It is not clear what entity will administer portions of Gaza that are freed from Hamas control. A Reuters report on May 7 indicated that the US could play a role in a US-led administration for Gaza.

As the IDF prepares for the new operation, the tempo of activity in Gaza has reduced since fighting began again on March 18. The last major strike the IDF announced in the territory was on March 4, when the Israeli Air Force targeted Hamas rocket launchers in Khan Younis. The IDF has been more active in targeting terrorists in Lebanon and carrying out retaliatory strikes on the Houthis in Yemen after a Houthi missile struck near Ben-Gurion International Airport on May 4.

Reporting from Israel, Seth J. Frantzman is an adjunct fellow at FDD and a contributor to FDDs Long War Journal. He is the senior Middle East correspondent and analyst at The Jerusalem Post, and author of The October 7 War: Israel's Battle for Security in Gaza (2024).
Mahdi al Mashat, president of the Supreme Political Council, the Houthi-controlled governing body of north Yemen. (@Preesident_Ye on X)

On May 6, US President Donald Trump announced an end to Operation Rough Rider, the US offensive against the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, saying the Houthis and the US had reached an agreement. The Foreign Ministry of Oman issued a statement saying it had brokered a ceasefire between the two parties.

In the future, neither side will target the other, including American vessels, in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait, ensuring freedom of navigation and the smooth flow of international commercial shipping, the Omani Foreign Ministry stated.

According to Trump, the Houthis announced to us at least that they dont want to fight anymore. He continued, We will take their word. They say they will not be blowing up ships anymore.

A statement posted on the Houthi war media X account and credited to Mohammed Abdel Salam, head of the National Delegation, the Muscat-based Houthi negotiating team, affirmed the Omani statement. The Houthis statement went on to claim that the agreement came at the request of America and described the US position as an expression of helplessness and failure. A second post by the group alleged that Israel is very disappointed by the American position.

The ceasefire is limited to US-Houthi relations, and the publicly stated terms make no mention of Israel, which the Houthis have routinely targeted since October 2023 in solidarity with Hamas terrorists in Gaza. Abdulmalik Alejri, a member of the Houthis negotiating delegation, stated that the agreement has nothing to do with the Israeli enemy or with supporting Gaza in a post on X.

Mahdi al Mashat, president of the Houthis Supreme Political Council, said, We indirectly informed the Americans that the continued escalation will affect the criminal Trumps visit to the region, and we have informed them of nothing else.

Moammar al Eryani, a minister in Yemens Internationally Recognized Government, asserted that the ceasefire agreement is a surrender forced on the Houthis by the success of American airstrikes.

The ceasefire comes after seven weeks of US airstrikes against Houthi targets across northern Yemen aimed at restoring American deterrence and freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. According to the US Department of Defense, [US] strikes have hit over 1,000 targets, killing Houthi fighters and leaders, including senior Houthi missile and UAV officials, and degrading their capabilities.

According to CNN, the US Navy lost an F-18 jet from the USS Truman in the Red Sea on Tuesday. While the US Department of Defense has not confirmed the loss, it would be the second fighter jet the US has lost in an accident during operations against the Houthis. In addition to the jets, the Houthis have reportedly shot down seven MQ-9 Reaper drones during the US operation.

Despite daily US airstrikes during the campaign, the Houthis continued launching dozens of missiles and drones at US naval forces in the Red Sea and Israel. All attacks were intercepted, until Israel failed to intercept a ballistic missile on May 4 that struck near Ben Gurion International Airport in central Israel. The Houthis also announced that they aim to impose a comprehensive air blockade of Israel by repeatedly targeting airports. Many international airlines have suspended flights to Tel Aviv.

Following the Houthis attack on Ben Gurion International Airport, Israel struck Hodeida port, which is an economic lifeline for the Houthis, Sanaa International Airport, power stations, and cement factories that the terrorist group uses to develop its infrastructure. According to the director of Sanaa airport, the facility suffered $500 million in damages.

Bridget Toomey is a research analyst at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies focusing on Iranian proxies, specifically Iraqi militias and the Houthis.
There were 487,109 salaried workers in Luxembourg at the end of 2024, according to statistics office Statec, but at just a 1% increase on the previous year job growth that has not been slower since 2009, Idea Foundation said in its annual report.

We already saw the start of a slowdown in 2023, but this accelerated in 2024, said Ioana Pop, an economist at the Idea Foundation, a think tank within the Chamber of Commerce. While employment is still growing in Luxembourg, it has slowed considerably. While it rose by an average of 2.9% a year between 2013 and 2023, it was limited to 2.1% in 2023, before plummeting to 1%.

For Pop, the reasons for the slowdown are essentially sectoral.

Whereas between 2014 and 2019, the non-commercial sector (which includes government, charities, the education and health sectors) contributed around 20% to employment growth, in 2024 its contribution had risen to 77.4% (almost 4,500 jobs). The commercial (for-profit) sector largely stalled by 2024, with 22.6% of jobs created (a total of around 1,300 positions).

Also read: Number of skilled tradespeople shrunk in 2024

Construction, finance and IT in decline

It is the construction sector, which accounts for almost 10% of employment in Luxembourg, which has seen the biggest decline, with a fall of 4.8%, or around 2,500 jobs compared to 2023, explained Pop.

Another important area that has seen slower growth is the finance and insurance sector: It accounts for around 11% of the total employment market, and recorded growth of just 1.3% in 2024, Pop said.

The slowdown follows on from 2023, which had already seen a slight cooling off, as growth fell from 3.5% to 2.9% since 2022.

Ioana Pop, economist at the Idea Foundation.  Photo credit: D.R.

The slowdown follows on from 2023, which had already seen a slight cooling off, as growth fell from 3.5% to 2.9% since 2022.

Perhaps most striking is the hole that has appeared in another sector increasingly crucial to the economy: IT.

The IT market is usually very dynamic (+3.5% employment in 2022 and +3.9% in 2023) but stagnated - even showing a slight recession - in 2024 (-0.1%). It still represents 4.5% of jobs in Luxembourg, said Pop.

It is easy to make a connection to the latest Adem lists of occupations in short supply, she believes. These lists include a number of occupations related to the IT sector. In other words, there might be vacancies, but companies dont fill them.

Also read: Three-quarters of workers in Luxembourg are foreigners

Jobseekers with more qualifications

There may be a link between the slowdown in hiring seen in the financial centre and the IT sector, and another feature of Idea's annual digest: the sharp rise in the number of jobseekers with higher education qualifications.

We know that artificial intelligence could reshape the labour market, but its hard to say today whether the slowdown were seeing could come from there or not. Ioana Pop Economist at the IDEA Foundation

While the number of jobseekers with a lower secondary diploma (+2.1%) or an upper secondary diploma (+6.2%) has risen in 2024, these increases remain well below the 15.2% seen among people with a university degree (or equivalent).

A mismatch between the skills of these graduates, on the one hand, and those sought by employers, on the other, does indeed seem to be one of the reasons for this sharp rise, said Pop.

She also sees two other possible factors: The fact that the proportion of the resident population of Luxembourg with a higher education qualification has risen (to 45.5%) and a number of people are currently looking to retrain for a new career.

Also read: Heres how Luxembourg is trying to attract talent

At the same time, Luxembourg has a much lower employment activity rate among senior citizens (i.e. those aged 55-64) than its European neighbours. This can be explained in part by Luxembourgs generous pension system, but also, once again, by a concern about skills. The skills of many older people have become obsolete in the face of changes on the labour market, said Pop.

The skills mismatch is likely to get worse if it is not addressed. More than ever, therefore, it is essential to invest more in continuing training, to adapt these skills to the needs of the market, the think tank said.

More than 20,000 inactive people wanting to work Some 20,475 people were registered in Luxembourg as being inactive but wanting to work in 2024. This group is not included in official unemployment figures, but is made up of those who may be undergoing training or be unfit for work due to their state of health. These are people who are not necessarily actively seeking employment, but who could constitute a pool of potential workers.

Artificial intelligence

Change continues apace as Luxembourg is increasingly turning towards digital technology and innovation. These are high value-added sectors, but they need a highly skilled workforce in areas that are often specialised.

Luxembourg is not alone in investing in these sectors, nor is it the only European country to see a slowdown in its employment market. We know that artificial intelligence could reshape the labour market, but its difficult to say today whether the slowdown were seeing could come from there or not. Many studies dealing with the impact of AI on the world of work tend to reveal contradictory results at the moment, said Pop.

What seems more certain, however, is that we need to adapt to current changes, such as AI. Those who fail to do so run the risk of not being able to keep their heads above water.

Statec is forecasting a timid recovery in the employment market in 2025 (+1.4%), before a return to 2.2% in 2026.

(This article was first published on Virgule.lu. Translated using AI, edited by Alex Stevensson.)
Posts from jobhunters who have been searching for six months or more to seek advice on LinkedIn and on Luxembourgs popular Facebook groups have been on the rise recently.

Whilst some have had no response to hundreds of job applications, others with relevant sector and country experience are screened out at final interview stage.

Review and tailor your CV for specific jobs adding keywords from the job description said Buring  Photo credit: Heloise Buring

Whilst some have had no response to hundreds of job applications, others with relevant sector and country experience are screened out at final interview stage.

The Luxembourg Times asked two recruiters for tips and advice for jobseekers that have been searching for employment in the professional sector for several months.

Heloise Buring is associate director for Morgan Philips Executive Search, which has clients in the alternative investment space, including private equity, real estate funds, and international financial institutions and commercial and industrial companies.

Carolina de Leon Brooks is the talent acquisition partner at a research centre, helping bring scientists to Luxembourg and supporting others in their careers.

What advice would you give someone who has been job searching for more than six months with no success?

Dont underestimate the power of networking - its still the most effective way to land a job in Luxembourg, said De Leon Brooks who found her current role through networking.

She suggested tapping into professional associations, alumni networks and LinkedIn connections, but also attending industry-specific events or even casual meet-ups because being visible matters.

Upskilling or taking a short course in languages, soft skills or even technical tools can also refresh your confidence and show employers youre committed to personal growth, she said.

Dont underestimate the power of networking  its still the most effective way to land a job in Luxembourg Carolina De Leon Brooks

For Buring, the first step is to understand why your job search has not been successful. Is your CV incomplete? Are you applying for roles that dont match your experience? she explained, adding that asking for feedback or even a short explanation can provide valuable insight.

Also read: Step-by-step guide to getting a foot on Luxembourgs job market

Its important to explore a variety of job search methods, and always tailor your CV for each position to include keywords from the job description. Recruiters often skim CVs in seconds, she noted.

Connecting with one or two specialised recruiters can also give you access to exclusive opportunities, and Buring also suggested you use your network to connect with hiring managers directly.

Your network is a hidden gem and often under-utilised. It can lead to roles that are never advertised, she said.

De Leon Brooks has learned that rejection for a job is not personal  Photo credit: Carolina De Leon Brooks

Your network is a hidden gem and often under-utilised. It can lead to roles that are never advertised, she said.

One of the most important things De Leon Brooks has learned is that rejection for a job is not personal. It doesnt mean theres something wrong with you. There are many reasons behind hiring decisions.

She suggested jobseekers apply quickly when they see a job that fits: You wont look desperate. On the contrary, many recruiters, myself included, review applications on a first-come, first-served basis so timing can make a real difference.

Remain hopeful and persistent said Buring, noting that job searching can be mentally and emotionally draining, but that the right opportunity often comes when you least expect it.

How should you search for roles and should you apply for jobs where your experience doesnt fully match the job description?

You dont need to meet the criteria 100% to apply, so long as you meet 60-70% of the required skills, said Buring, adding that many companies now focus on soft skills, adaptability, communication and leadership skills, because technical skills can often be developed on the job.

Be strategic. Applying for roles far outside your skillset is unlikely to succeed. Focus on roles where you meet most requirements, especially the ones that have been open for a while or seem urgent to fill, said De Leon Brooks.

Her smart approach is to target temporary positions, contract roles or maternity/parental leave cover: These can be excellent ways to get your foot in the door, prove your value, and potentially secure a permanent role later.

What about your CV, motivational or cover letter and LinkedIn profile?

Your CV should always be tailored for a role, said Buring. Avoid using a one-size fits all format, and ensure the language of your CV matches that of the company you are applying to.

Ideally the CV structure should be:

A short summary of your skills

A clear and chronological employment history

Education background

Technical skills, languages and certifications

Key achievements (with measurable results where possible)

Hobbies (to add personality)

The cover letter is less relevant in Luxembourg, said Buring, whilst LinkedIn is critical. Your profile should mirror your CV in terms of experience and include your location, language skills, key skills and dont forget to activate the open to work option for more visibility, she said.

A professional photo, not one from holiday, also makes a big difference in credibility and first impressions, she said.

Its important to explore a variety of job search methods Heloise Buring

Job applications should be tailored, especially if a cover letter is requested, De Leon Brooks agreed. Use it to share relevant experiences or insights that dont fit into your CV and show genuine interest in the company.

You should use keywords wisely, scanning the job description and identifying the top three must haves, and mirroring these in your CV, cover letter and LinkedIn profile. Recruiters often use keyword scanning tools so this step is essential, she said.

Make sure your LinkedIn headline and summary reflect your current goals and strengths. Its often the first impression you give to potential employers.

Also read: Am I too old to find a new job?

If you get an interview, what are the key things you should try to get across with your answers?

Preparation is key said De Leon Brooks: Research the companys values, recent news, and the person wholl interview you if you know this. Understand the job description in depth, and prepare concrete examples from your past work that match the requirements.

You should also be ready to discuss salary expectations, since this is wide-ranging in Luxembourg depending on sector and seniority. Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask, as this shows engagement and curiosity, she said.

Understand the job description in depth, and prepare concrete examples from your past work that match the requirements Carolina De Leon Brooks

Finally, be punctual and dress appropriately. Luxembourgs professional culture tends to be formal, especially in finance, legal and the EU institutions, De Leon Brooks said.

Be clear and concise when presenting yourself. Show genuine motivation and that youve done your research on the company, added Buring.

Employers increasingly look for candidates who are versatile, collaborative and committed to long-term growth.

Buring advised that you avoid discussing salary and remote work policies at the beginning of your interview, as this can work against you. Let the conversation naturally evolve before addressing these topics.

Are you unemployable if youve been out of professional work for more than a year in Luxembourg?

Its true that after six months out of work, it can become more difficult to re-enter the job market. Its absolutely possible, but you must explain what youve done during your time off, said Buring.

Show that gap was purposeful - that you completed new qualifications, learned new skills or took time for professional development, which has added value to your profile, she advised.

It can be a psychological hurdle, said De Leon Brooks. Whilst being unemployed doesnt automatically make someone unemployable, it might affect your confidence or negotiating power.

She agreed that showing how you used the gap to stay active, possibly freelancing, volunteering, training or mentoring, would frame it in a positive light and show you are still engaged and capable.

Tips for coping with the emotional fallout of not finding work

Job hunting can be emotionally draining, so prioritise your mental and physical wellbeing. Take time to recharge in nature, exercise regularly, and stay connected with people - whether through networking events or just casual meetups, advised De Leon Brooks.

Learning something new - even unrelated to your field - can boost your self-esteem and add structure to your day, she said, cautioning against becoming isolated. Talking to others in the same situation can also help normalise it.

Buring highlighted you should stay connected, talk to others, seek advice and try to stay positive.

Physical activity and routine help a lot. Stay up to date with your industry, continue learning and, most importantly, take care of yourself.
AI-based search options may be coming to Safari across Apples platforms.

At least, thats what Eddy Cue, Apples senior VP of services, testified in the Justice Departments lawsuit against Alphabet Inc. The lawsuit is over Googles monopoly over search and whether it broke antitrust law. One of the ways it was said to have done this is by paying Apple to maintain its position as the default search engine in Safari (realistically, the only web browser for over a billion iPhone users).

Last year, the court found Google to be acting as a monopolist, claiming it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly. It has violated Section 2 of the Sherman Act. Now, Google is in court again to discuss exactly what the remedy should bewill Alphabet/Googles properties be broken apart? If so, how?

In his court appearance, Eddy Cue remarked on the Safari search deal with Google and where things are headed, according to a report from Bloomberg. Cue said Apple is actively looking at changing the way search works in Safari to focus on AI-powered search engines. Searches actually dipped on Safari last month for the first time, he said, which he attributed to people getting their answers from AI. Cue said he believes AI-based search products like those from Perplexity, Anthropic, and OpenAI will eventually replace the standard search one gets from Google. He expects to add those as search providers to Safari in the future, adding, We will add them to the list  they probably wont be the default.

Cue said the products still need to improve before that happens, however. He said making Google the default search was a natural choice because the other search engines were valid choices. I think today there is much greater potential because there are new entrants attacking the problem in a different way, he added.

Meanwhile, Google is moving ahead rapidly to incorporate AI into its search results and will soon debut a new AI mode for its search. In general, it seems that the public dislikes AI stuff inserted into search results, and the only feedback we see is that Google is ruining search and that more people just get answers to things they need from social media, instead.

Google had a chance to be the AI partner for Apple Intelligence in iOS 18, instead of OpenAIs ChatGPT. There was a bake-off between the two, but Googles term sheet, he says, had a lot of things Apple wouldnt agree to and didnt agree to with OpenAI. Google is widely rumored to become an option for extended AI features in iOS 19, providing users with a choice between ChatGPT, Gemini, and perhaps others.

The following paragraph of Bloombergs story is illuminating:

Still, [Cue] believes Google should remain the default in Safari, saying that he has lost sleep over the possibility of losing the revenue share from their agreement. He said Apples agreement with Google today on regular search still has the best financial terms.

This description of the proceedings makes it sound like Cue believes AI search, while not good enough right now, is the future and will soon be better for most users. But the billions of dollars Google pays to be the default is too good to give up.
As strange as it may seem, many discoveries have been made purely by chance or by 'mistake'. And that is exactly what happened in the Czech Republic. Some hikers, while climbing in the Podkrkonosi mountains in the northwest of the country, came across an aluminum can and an iron box.

Although, at first, they may be very unattractive containers, the climbers were in for a pleasant surprise when they opened them, discovering a treasure that may have belonged to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which was created in 1867 and lasted until 1918. Inside, the hikers found 16 snuff boxes, 10 bracelets, a comb, a chain, a powder box, a wire bag and up to 598 gold coins.

As numismatist Vojtech Bradle pointed out, many of these coins bear stamps with dates ranging from 1808 to 1915. According to the expert, these did not come directly from the Vienna Mint, but traveled through the Balkans as they bear stamps from kingdoms in that area. Apparently, the coins may have circulated in Serbia between 1920 and 1930.

A treasure worth $350,000

Dog Gets Stuck in Aquarium Tank

The total value of everything found inside the can and box could be around $350,000. The origin of this incredible treasure, which has been donated to the Museum of East Bohemia, is uncertain. "I was speechless. (...) The value is priceless," said Miroslav Novak, head of archaeology at the museum.

The aim now is to discover how the treasure came to the Czech Republic. According to Novak, valuable objects were stored underground during times of uncertainty with the intention of retrieving them later. One theory is that these valuables were hidden when some areas of the country began to be annexed in 1938.

"It is difficult to say whether it is the gold of a Czech who had to leave the occupied territory after the Nazi invasion of 1938, the gold of a German who feared being displaced after 1945 or Jewish gold," explained the museum's director, Petr Grulic.
U.S. Rep. Stephen Lynch will face a challenger next year for the congressional seat he has held since 2001.

Patrick Roath, a lawyer and voting rights advocate from Boston, said Wednesday that he will aim to unseat Lynch to bring a new generation of leadership to Capitol Hill.

I think we are in desperate need of new voices, new leadership, and big news ideas in D.C., the Democrat said in a LinkedIn post Wednesday morning.

Roath, who also worked for former Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick, was first reported to be considering a run for Congress in late February.

That was shortly after Lynch verbally sparred with constituents at a rally in Boston as he and his Democratic colleagues faced pressure to oppose President Donald Trumps agenda in Congress more forcefully. At one point in a contentious back-and-forth at the rally, Lynch suggested people should run for Congress if they disagreed with his strategy or judgment of what was in the best interests of the country.

Im running because everything is on the line right now with Trump in the White House, Roath said in a campaign launch video. And weve got to have people who are ready to go down there, and fight for us, and stick up for us, and defend our democracy.

Roath was raised in Connecticut and has lived in the Boston area since he attended Tufts University in the early 2000s.

After college, according to his campaign, he interned in the Obama White House before joining then-Gov. Deval Patrick as a campaign aide and staffer at the State House.

Roath also chaired the board of Common Cause Massachusetts, a Boston-based democracy and voting rights nonprofit, where he was involved with campaigns to pass automatic voter registration in Massachusetts, adopt universal mail-in voting in the state, and other voting accessibility initiatives.

For the last decade, he also worked as a commercial civil litigator at Ropes & Gray, a global law firm based in Boston, where he ran a pro bono practice focused on voting rights.

The resident of Bostons Jamaica Plain neighborhood will challenge Lynch for the Massachusetts 8th Congressional District, which includes part of Boston and stretches south to Brockton.

In his campaign launch video, Roath said he felt the American dream success stories of his parents, whose stable jobs at IBM brought them into the middle class, are fading away.

It was that sense that you dont hear that American dream opportunity story so much anymore that really got me motivated to be in public service for the first time, he said.
Rondell Sheridan, the Disney Channel actor who famously portrayed Victor Baxter on Thats So Raven, has come down with an extremely severe case of pancreatitis.

The 66-year-old said in an Instagram video Tuesday that he originally got sick on April 10 while touring. Sheridan went to the hospital where doctors believed his condition was purely gastric.

However, the actor returned to the hospital on April 12 where he was told he had pancreatitis.

My pancreas is inflamed and theres not much you can do about it but just wait for the inflammation to go down, Sheridan said in the video. I didnt realize that I was going to be, and will be, out of work for quite some time.

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas that causes swelling, pain and changes in how an organ or tissues work, according to the Mayo Clinic. Acute pancreatitis may improve on its own, but more serious cases can cause life-threatening complications and require hospital treatment.

Sheridans friend Isabel Beyoso, who set up a GoFundMe on his behalf, wrote that the actor is dealing with an extremely severe case of pancreatitis.

He has not been able to work since April 12, 2025 and will not be able to return to work for the unforeseeable future, Beyoso wrote on the campaign page. The doctors have said he just has to wait for his pancreas to do what its going to do before any further treatment can be considered, and in the meantime, he will be mostly bedridden.

Shes hoping to collect funds to help Sheridan cover his medical and monthly bills while he recovers.

I know this will be one giant stress we can collectively take off his shoulders, so that he can focus on resting, recovering, and healing, Beyoso wrote. Every little bit helps and he appreciates you immensely.

The GoFundMe has raised more than $25,000 of its $35,000 goal as of Wednesday afternoon.

Sheridan is best known for playing Raven Symones father on the popular Disney Channel sitcom Thats So Raven from 2003 to 2007. He reprised the role in the shows spin-offs Cory in the House and Ravens Home. Sheridan is most known for starring as Dr. Ron Aimes on the sitcom Minor Adjustments.
Netflix subscribers could be saying goodbye to their favorite shows after this year.

The platform plans to end The Empress and The Sandman while canceling Territory and The Recruit, according to DirectTV Insider.

The Empress, which ran for two seasons, is a historical drama based on the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria. Netflix announced in January that the series is set to create a third and final season after winning an International Emmy for Best Drama Series and making it to the Netflix Top 10 internationally.

The Sandman is also expected to conclude this year after it releases its second and final season, the streaming service announced in April. The fantasy show is about Morpheus, the King of Dreams who embarks on a journey across worlds to restore order to his realm, the Dreaming.

The Sandman is based on the comic book written by Neil Gaiman who was accused by multiple women of sexual misconduct, according to NPR. Gaiman denied the allegations.

After these allegations were announced, projects of Gaimans have ended or paused, including Good Omens season three, The Graveyard Book and Dead Boy Detectives, Vulture reported.

The Sandmans show runner, Allan Heinberg, told Netflix that they always knew the series would only have two seasons.

The Sandman series has always been focused exclusively on Dreams story, Heinberg said. Back in 2022, when we looked at the remaining Dream material from the comics, we knew we only had enough story for one more season.

Territory will be canceled this year. The series is about a family living in the remote northern territory of Australia. The central conflict revolves around their fight for control over the largest cattle station in the continent, according to Netflix.

With two seasons, The Recruit will also be leaving Netflix. The show is about a CIA lawyer, Owen Hendricks who becomes involved in international conflicts, according to IMDb.

Although these shows will soon come to an end, Netflix said it will also introduce new series and episodes this year, including for Black Mirror, Bridgerton, Wednesday and The Witcher.

12aa
Cory B. Alvarez, a Haitian migrant accused of raping a 15-year-old girl at a migrant shelter they were both living at, is led out of Hingham District Court during a break in his dangerousness hearing Friday. (David L. Ryan/Globe Staff) David L. Ryan/Globe Staff

A Haitian migrant charged with raping a teenage girl at a Massachusetts family shelter wants to be released from custody after a judge set his bail at $150,000 last fall.

The states Supreme Judicial Court heard arguments Wednesday morning about a Plymouth County judges decision to increase the mans original $500 bail to prevent his deportation and allow the case to proceed.

Prosecutors asked for 26-year-old Cory Alvarezs bail to be set at $1 million after federal immigration authorities sought to deport him in October, before a judge set it at $150,000.

Alvarez is charged with raping a teenage girl at a Comfort Inn in Rockland and his deportation was set for Oct. 31 before a state judge intervened. The hotel where Alvarez lived was part of the states shelter program for homeless families, Plymouth County District Attorney Timothy Cruzs Office previously said.

Federal immigration authorities have an agreement with Cruzs office not to detain Alvarez as long as he remains in state custody, according to John Zanini, a lawyer for the district attorneys office, at Wednesdays hearing.

The United States government could go pick up Mr. Alvarez, take him into custody and remove him any time they want and they have not, Zanini said. They have not because they are respecting right now our custody so that we can proceed with our trial.

Alvarez appeared before an immigration judge last year, and based on his admissions and concessions, was found removable, according to Zanini. Alvarez did not appeal the decision and used it as a tool to escape prosecution, Zanini wrote in a court filing.

Zanini added that the judge considered Alvarezs lack of community connections, lack of work history, the nature of the case, the potential penalty and the strength of the prosecutions case when setting the $150,000 bail.

A misuse of bail laws?

Alvarezs attorney, Brian Kelley, argued that the states bail law has a glaring omission when it comes to considering immigration issues such as deportations.

Legislators didnt write the bail laws to consider the deportation issue, Kelley said.

Bail increases are usually for defendants who violate conditions of their release, and high bail amounts are typically set for people who are considered flight risks, Kelley said.

What bothers me about this case is that its completely out of [Alvarezs] hands, Kelley said.

If allowed to be the rule, immigrant-defendants who face a possibility of being deported will [be] unfairly subjected to higher (or held without) bail to prevent them being deported through no fault of their own, Kelley wrote in a filing. If allowed to stand, the Courts decision would create a wholly different standard of bail for immigrants, which has not been established before.

Judge Scott Kafker asked whether the state and the victims interest in justice being done is a factor.

I cant say its not a factor, Kelley responded, but suggested that, if Alvarez was released and detained by the federal government, immigration authorities could guarantee his appearance in court.

The Supreme Judicial Court judges did not issue a ruling Wednesday.

Alvarezs history

Alvarez is in the United States as part of the Biden administrations Humanitarian Parole Program for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans, according to prosecutors.

On the night of March 13, police went to the Comfort Inn in Rockland at 850 Hingham St. after hotel staff reported a girl said she had been raped, Rockland Police Det. Sgt. Greg Pigeon testified in Hingham District Court during Alvarezs dangerousness hearing in March.

Rockland police took the girl to South Shore Hospital for treatment after arriving at the hotel.

Alvarez entered the country legally and had undergone two background checks, Kelley said at a prior court hearing, citing Gov. Maura Healeys office. It was not clear how long Alvarez had been living at the hotel and Kelley said he spent time in New York City before arriving in Massachusetts.

The girl and Alvarez had no pre-existing relationship before the incident, both prosecutors and Kelley previously confirmed.

What happens next

Prosecutors argued in favor of increasing Alvarezs bail to keep him in Massachusetts and face prosecution on his charges: aggravated rape of a child with 10 year age difference and rape of a child by force.

His deportation would have (left) him unable to answer the accusations against him, Cruzs office said in a statement. Such a scenario would halt the case indefinitely, preventing any resolution for both the alleged victim and the defendant.

Judge Elaine Buckle found the prosecutors arguments convincing in October. The district attorneys office quoted the judge as saying, The Commonwealth does have a case of strength. The court finds justice requires the increase in bail.

Alvarez is scheduled to appear in Plymouth Superior Court on July 23.
Officials at Logan International Airport in Boston found child sex abuse material on a Dominican mans phone, leading to his arrest and charges, United States Attorney Leah Foleys office said.

Jorge Junior Alvarez Rodriguez, 21, was charged with one count of transportation of child pornography.

On May 3, Alvarez Rodriguez landed at Logan after a flight from Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic, Foleys office said in a statement. He was flagged for a secondary screening where his cell phone was reviewed and found with multiple files containing child sex abuse material.

Several of these files depicted children between 4 and 7 years old, Foleys office said.

The charge of transportation of child pornography provides for a sentence of at least five years and up to 20 years in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.
A man who pleaded guilty to murder in 1970 will be released from state prison more than five decades after the crime  but his release wont mark the end of his detainment.

The man, Glenn Moniz, will be released to federal custody. He faces a federal sentence for escaping prison on furlough in the 1970s and living under a pseudonym in Florida for a decade before being captured again. Moniz will serve 18 months in federal prison on the charge of escaping custody following his release from state prison.

At one point while in custody, Moniz sued several officials at Massachusetts Correctional Institution Norfolk, where he is serving his prison sentence. A federal judge dismissed the suit.

On April 6, 1970, Moniz pleaded guilty to a single count of second degree murder for killing Walter Cavanaugh. About a month earlier, on March 1, 1970, Moniz and an accomplice, John Hoffmaster, shot and killed Cavanaugh, then 29, inside a room at the Huntington Hotel in Boston.

Moniz and Hoffmaster rented a room at the hotel on Feb. 27, 1970. On March 1, Hoffmaster and Cavanaugh were seen entering the hotel and going directly to the room. The next day, Cavanaughs body was found inside the hotel room. He had been shot at least seven times.

Just days after the murder, Moniz and Hoffmaster were arrested for a bank robbery. At the time, Moniz was wearing Cavanaughs jacket and Hoffmaster was found with ammunition matching the type used to kill Cavanaugh.

In 1976, Moniz escaped custody on the underlying charge of robbery, for which he had received a 12-year sentence. He was found in Florida 10 years later.

Five years before the Cavanaugh murder, when he was 16, Moniz killed his mother, the parole board wrote in its decision. He was released after spending about four years in custody for that murder.

Now 76, Moniz had not appeared before the Parole Board for more than a decade before his hearing in January. In its decision, the board notes Monizs declining mobility and current medical conditions.

The board also considered testimony from a psychologist who determined Moniz was at a low risk of re-offending. A Suffolk County prosecutor opposed his release.

When Moniz completes his 18-month federal sentence for escaping custody, he will be released to Florida through an interstate compact. He must also undergo counseling for childhood trauma, transition and substance abuse issues.
A Massachusetts man who admitted to slitting his mothers throat out of fear for his sisters safety was granted parole after 22 years.

On Sept. 24, 2003, Alexis Molina pleaded guilty in Bristol Superior Court to second-degree murder. He was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole. He also pleaded guilty to armed robbery with a knife, larceny of a motor vehicle and larceny.

In 2002, Molina, 22, moved out of his mothers house but went back to get his clothes. However, his mother, Catherine Molina Velazquez, began telling him that she was going to tell his sisters parole officer to arrest her for parole violations. Molina said his sister had attempted suicide the last time she was incarcerated, so this upset him, the parole board stated. When his mother began looking for the parole officers number, he broke down.
Less than half of low-income tenants in Massachusetts who hold state-funded housing vouchers can consistently afford their monthly rent, according to a Boston Foundation report released Wednesday.

The report, which studied the efficacy of the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP), revealed that 44% of voucher holders were always able to afford rent, while 33% said they could afford it most of the time and 16% said they could only afford it sometimes.

Researchers determined through surveys and interviews with tenants and landlords that while the program is a lifeline for the people it helps, it also has significant shortcomings. Those shortfalls make it difficult for people to access rental assistance and/or build long-term financial security.

While safe, stable housing is a vast improvement on the alternative, [tenants] aspire to geographic and economic mobility, the researchers wrote in the report. Voucher holders want to have a choice of decent places to live, to be able to save and someday to be able to afford homeownership.

What is the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program?

The state rental assistance program is the oldest housing voucher program in the U.S. and serves more than 10,000 low-income households, according to the report.

The state budgeted $219 million for the program in the current fiscal year. Gov. Maura Healey calls for raising that to $253 million in her proposed fiscal 2026 budget.

To be eligible for the program, a household must make 80% or less of the area median income for their city or town.

Voucher holders pay 30% of their monthly income toward rent, and the voucher covers the rest.

Tenants who use state-funded vouchers told the researchers the program has allowed them to improve their lives. Seventy-eight percent of tenants said it was easier to find and keep a job because of the housing stability a voucher provides, and 86% of parents said their children were doing better in school.

My kids arent living in a shelter apartment. My kids are with me. Im not in fear that my children are going to be taken by DCF [Department of Children & Family] because I cant provide a stable living, one tenant told the researchers.

Voucher recipients are generally able to access higher-quality housing. Tenants in focus groups said their homes are better, and appliances and utilities work better than in previous apartments. Sixty-four percent of survey respondents said their current home is in excellent or good condition.

Landlords who rented to MRVP tenants broadly said the program also benefits them. A large majority  81%  cited the guarantee of consistent rent payments as one of the most helpful aspects, while 38% mentioned reduced turnover rates and 20% mentioned access to a wider pool of tenants.

Seventy percent said they were very or somewhat satisfied with the program, and 47% said they were very likely to seek out voucher-holding tenants in the future, in addition to 22% who said they were somewhat likely to do so.

What challenges exist for tenants with rental vouchers?

The state program currently has a waitlist of 168,000 people hoping to receive a voucher, according to the report. Of voucher holders surveyed, 45% said it took more than a year to receive a voucher after they applied.

However, even those with vouchers said they faced challenges affording basic necessities and saving money.

This was particularly true for households at both ends of the eligible income spectrum. For the lowest-income tenants, even with some of their rent covered, their remaining funds may not stretch far enough to cover bills. Participants with the highest eligible incomes experience cliff effects, or the drop-off of assistance programs if their income exceeds the eligible level.

Another issue discussed by tenants and landlords is that of communication and transparency on the part of the state.

Tenants and landlords both emphasized how much smoother their experiences were when dealing with a representative who they felt was competent and communicative, the researchers wrote.

They also described frustrating situations with uncommunicative representatives, long hold times on the phone, missing information or feeling lost when contact dropped off after move-in.

What improvements can be made to the program?

The report outlines several recommendations for improving the state rental voucher program, including creating more vouchers and providing more opportunities for tenants to build wealth.

The researchers suggested providing bridge financial assistance to households that lose their eligibility due to an increase in income, to offset cliff effects, and giving waitlist priority to previous voucher holders if their income drops back down below the threshold.

They suggested expanding the existing Self-Sufficiency Program within MRVP, which helps tenants develop career skills and access employment, and if their income increases, the extra funds are placed in an escrow account until they complete the program. Only some of the organizations that administer vouchers offer this program.

The report also emphasizes the need for better education for tenants and landlords about the requirements and process of the voucher program and communication with the agency.

The researchers acknowledged that most of these improvements would require more funding for the program, but did not say how much more funding would be needed.

To help provide more resources and stability to the program, they recommended that MRVP be codified into state law. Currently, money for the program is renewed annually in the state budget passed by the Legislature, which leaves tenants without a guarantee that the funds will be allocated each year.

Codifying the program is a simple step that would give everyone who relies on it confidence that it will remain in place and continue to serve a critical function in the housing ecosystem, they wrote.

You can read the full report on The Boston Foundations website.
President Donald Trump arrives to give a commencement address at the University of Alabama, Thursday, May 1, 2025, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta

A partial budget proposal released on Friday from the Trump administration lays out a long list of impacts to higher education across the country, aiming to get rid of diversity, equity and inclusion and taper its involvement in education.

The 46-page skinny budget isnt finalized for the 2025-2026 fiscal year but will be in the coming weeks. It is up to Congress to determine how the federal money is used. It calls for $163 billion in cuts across the government.
Tufts University graduate student Rumeysa Ozturk, who was detained by immigration officials in March and sent to a detention center in Louisiana, must be transferred to Vermont, a federal appeals court ruled on Wednesday.

Three judges from the New York-based U.S. 2nd Circuit Court denied the Trump administrations appeal that she not be transferred to Vermont. The judges argued in their decision that failed in its appeal and that the transfer order does not prevent it from effectuating any duly enacted law.

Finally, the balance of the equities disfavors a stay [in Louisiana], the decision read. Ozturks interest in participating in her scheduled habeas proceedings in person outweighs the governments purported administrative and logistical costs.

The administration also claimed that her removal and transfer would cause irreparable injury if at any time the government is enjoined by a court [from] effectuating statutes enacted by representatives of its people.

In particular, Ozturk does not seek to disrupt  and nothing prevents the government from continuing with  the removal proceedings it has commenced, the judges ruled. Permitting Ozturks transfer will provide her ready access to legal and medical services, address concerns about the conditions of her confinement and expedite resolution of this matter  all of which are required, as the court below noted, to proceed expeditiously.

The federal government has one week to comply with the transfer order, the judges ruled.

Following the decision, the American Civil Liberties Union of Massachusetts said in a statement that a federal judge in Vermont will hold a hearing regarding Ozturks motion to be released on bail on May 9, as well as a hearing on May 22 for the merits of a habeas petition.

Ozturk, 30, was detained by masked Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on the streets of Somerville on March 25 while on her way to break a Ramadan fast. She was taken into custody because of an op-ed she co-authored in the Tufts student newspaper about the war in Gaza.

No one should be arrested and locked up for their political views, Esha Bhandari, deputy director of the ACLUs Speech, Privacy, and Technology Project, said in the ACLUs statement. Every day that Rumeysa Ozturk remains in detention is a day too long. Were grateful the court refused the governments attempt to keep her isolated from her community and her legal counsel as she pursues her case for release.

A district court judge in Vermont had ordered that Ozturk be brought to the state by May 1 for hearings to determine whether she was illegally detained. Ozturks lawyers say her detention violates her constitutional rights, including free speech and due process.

The appeals court paused the order to return Ozturk last week in order to consider the governments motion, which argues the Louisiana immigration court has jurisdiction over Ozturks case, not the court in Vermont.

When she was detained in March, Ozturk was whisked overnight to New Hampshire, then to Vermont, and ultimately brought to an all-women detention facility in Louisiana, where she currently remains.

Ozturks lawyers first filed a petition on her behalf in Massachusetts, but they did not know where she was and were unable to speak to her until more than 24 hours after she was detained. A Massachusetts judge later transferred the case to Vermont.

The Department of Homeland Security previously said that Ozturk engaged in activities in support of Hamas, a U.S.-designated terrorist organization, without any evidence of that claim.

Ozturk described the poor conditions and her experience in the detention facility in filings on May 2, where she has suffered from an increased number of asthma attacks due to the tight quarters, lack of medical care and abuse from staff.

These attacks last up to 45 minutes and leave Ozturk feeling exhausted and anxious.

It has become progressively harder to recover from these asthma attacks while in detention, Ozturk wrote.

 ... I am very concerned about the severity of these attacks and my ability to manage them, Ozturk said.
Massachusetts state Senate President Karen E. Spilka, D-Middlesex/Norfolk, and Senate Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Michael Rodriques, D-1st Bristol/Plymouth, during a news conference at the State House in Boston on Tuesday. John L. Micek/MassLive

As unenviable positions go, this one has to be right up there.

On Tuesday, as they rolled out a $61.3 billion, no-tax-hike budget for the new fiscal year that starts July 1, Democrats who control the state Senate had to contend with the very real possibility that the rug could be pulled out from under them at any second.

Thats because the Trump administration and its Republican allies on Capitol Hill could still shut off the flow of billions of dollars in federal funding that provides a critical underpinning to programs across state government.

And thats nowhere more plain than in MassHealth, the massive state health care program, which accounts for 37% of total general fund spending in the Democrats fiscal blueprint. It dwarfs other key sectors, including transportation (2%), public safety (3%) and even education (8%).

So, even with Medicaid squarely in Congresss crosshairs as it tries to drum up money for tax cuts, Senate budget-writers in the Bay State moved ahead with their spending plan, assuming the best, and decidedly preparing for the worst.

We think its prudent to move forward and to pass a budget based upon the facts that we know now, and then well deal with the future, Senate Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Michael Rodriques, D-1st Bristol/Plymouth, said during a briefing in his State House Office on Tuesday morning.

We hear from experts that theres no way [President Donald Trump] is going to touch Medicaid, because Medicaid reductions will hurt so-called red states more than us, because they have such a high percentage of [beneficiaries], he mused.

And if Congress and the Republican White House do take a weed-whacker to Medicaid?

Weve just got to stay calm, stay focused, and be open-minded enough that we might be back at the table in a few months, Rodriques, of Westport, said, referring to the supplemental budgets the Legislature frequently passes when cash runs short. He also ruled out dipping into the states Rainy Day Fund just in case.

The spending plan unveiled Tuesday, an increase of $3.6 billion, or 6.3% above the current approved spending of $57.7 billion, pumps more money into public education, transportation and social services.

It also comes in below the $62 billion proposal that Democratic Gov. Maura Healey proposed earlier this year, and a smidge lower than the $61.4 billion spending blueprint the majority-Democrat House approved last week.

Rodriques dismissed suggestions that the Senates plan, while lower than both those offered by Healey and the House, boosted spending too much at a time of acknowledged uncertainty.

You know, think nursing homes, long-term care for seniors. Think health care for seniors, for [the] disabled, for low-income individuals, he said. Thats the driver ... unless we want to stop reducing services to our residents. I dont see any way that we [can]. You know, weve scrubbed it clean."

But if Trump and Republicans do slash funding, then all bets are off, Rodriques warned.

In some ways, you could argue that there was nothing new under the sun on Tuesday as Rodriques, at one point joined by Senate President Karen E. Spilka, sketched out the Hobsons choice that policymakers could face on federal funding in the coming months.

Its the same one that faces Healey and the House as Beacon Hill moves into the thick of budget season.

It was nonetheless noteworthy to hear it discussed in such frank terms  and to have it juxtaposed against two pandemic-era budgets when Washington was firehosing federal assistance onto the states.

Now the situation is how much Washington could hurt us and restrict us from providing what we think the citizens deserve, Rodriques said.

Since his return to power in January, the Republican president has cast a long shadow over Massachusetts, from his battery of executive orders that touch nearly every part of public life, to his ongoing, pitched battle with Harvard University.

We are in an uncertain moment  you all know this as well as I do," Spilka, of Ashland, said. Things change, not week to week, or even month to month, or day by day, its hour to hour. So its impossible to know the level of chaos thats going on, and we can only produce a budget based on what we do know.

And we do not know [whether] the federal government might decide to punish the state financially for being who we are. And that, to me, is among the worst punishments possible, she continued. They may cut funding for being who we are as Massachusetts. [But] we will continue to protect our residents, defend our values and lead Massachusetts.

Which brings us back to MassHealth, as Medicaid is known in Massachusetts. The sprawling program provides services to 2 million of the states 7.1 million residents, state data show.

Of that number, 1.6 million are low- to moderate-income families, while another 500,000 beneficiaries are people living with disabilities and older adults.

On Capitol Hill, majority Republicans are walking a tight rope as they try to slash federal spending by $1.5 trillion, with hundreds of billions likely coming from Medicaid, as they seek to pay for Trumps tax cuts.

Republican leaders have denied that theyll cut one of the third-rail entitlement programs. But experts agree that its tough to imagine them reaching their targets without cutting Medicaid, according to CBS News.

Back in Boston, with the Senates budget unveiled and all the chess pieces on the board, theres not much more to do than to wait and see what happens next.

And anyway, weve got other things to move on to, Rodriques said.
Mike Kennealy, a former Baker administration official, announced Monday, April 7, 2025, that he would seek the Republican nomination for governor in 2026. (Screen Capture) Screen Capture

Massachusetts Democrats have called on the states campaign finance watchdog to investigate what theyre describing as multiple violations of state law by Republican gubernatorial hopeful Mike Kennealys campaign.

The call for the probe is tied to recent reporting by The Boston Herald that Kennealy, a former senior Baker administration official, accepted a series of contributions in April that exceeded the states individual donation limit.

While the more than 50 violations identified by Kennealys campaign are inexcusable, state Democrats said they also were concerned that the solicitation materials and their pattern of practice used made specific requests of donors to cover processing fees, which would constitute additional violations.

Kennealys campaign attributed the overages to donors covering credit card processing fees and couples who contributed to the Republican hopeful as a single transaction.

Such occurrences are common, Kennealys campaign told MassLive through a spokesperson.

Adam Roof, the state partys executive director, asserted in a letter to William Campbell, who runs the states Office of Campaign and Political Finance, that the campaigns explanation does not negate the legal requirement to monitor, reject, or promptly refund contributions that exceed the statutory limit.

Kennealy, whos looking to unseat Democratic Gov. Maura Healey, is actively refunding excess donations. And the campaign is in full communication with regulators to ensure compliance, the spokesperson, Logan Trupiano, told MassLive.

The fact that the MassDems are trying to manufacture outrage over this routine matter only underscores one thing: they know Maura Healey is politically vulnerable and are desperate to distract from her failures, Trupiano said.

Last week, Kennealys campaign touted the fact that it had raised more than $130,000 in the opening weeks of its nascent effort to win the Republican nomination and to eventually challenge Healey in 2026.

Kennealy, a Lexington resident who was Bakers housing and economic development czar, said hes already committed to spending $2 million of his own money in his bid to unseat Healey, who said in February that shes running for a second term.

Healey was sitting on nearly $2.9 million in her campaign account as of late last week, state filings showed.
Massachusetts Republicans teed off on the top Democrat in the state House on Wednesday for slipping $25 million for a parking garage in his district that critics have denounced as the ultimate power play.

State House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano, D-3rd Norfolk, successfully inserted the language into a bill last month that doled out $1.3 billion in surplus cash from the states so-called Millionaires Tax.

It gave a leg up to the city of Quincy, which is building a 500-spot parking garage for a new Beth Israel Deaconess-run medical facility, according to The Boston Globe, which was the first to report the news.

Under state law, money from the Millionaires Tax, formally known as the Fair Share Amendment, is intended to support education- and transportation-related programs.

The chamber allocated $353.5 million for education and $828 million, most of it for the MBTA, for transportation.

Critics told the Globe that the language Mariano inserted into the bill stretched the intent of the law.,

Marianos actions "siphon money from roads and bridges," and back toward the political donors who have padded his campaign account, John Milligan, the executive director of the state Republican Party, said in a statement.

"The migrant shelter crisis continues to bleed money from our budget while Massachusetts is ranked the second-most expensive state for families, but State House leadership is still managing to use taxpayer dollars to take care of the friends who have long taken care of them, Milligan said in an email.

In a statement to the Globe, Mariano defended the move, saying the money would pay for an essential component of the new health care facility.

Providing support for key transportation infrastructure projects, especially projects that are related to the health and well-being of our residents, is one of the most fundamental ways that state government can better the lives of the people that it serves, Mariano said, according to the newspaper.

Quincy has gone all-in on the project, investing $157 million to build a pair of parking garages in Quincy Center, according to the local Patriot-Ledger newspaper.
The front page of the May 8, 1945 Post-Standard announces the surrender of Germany, ending World War II in Europe.

Eighty years ago this week, Americans and Europeans exhaled a collective sigh of relief as Allied forces toppled Adolf Hitlers brutal regime in Nazi Germany, putting an end to six years of bloody conflict that had spread across the continent and the globe.

That day, marked as VE-Day on May 8, 1945, wasnt the last word, however. The fighting would still drag on for nearly four more months in the Pacific Theater until the final Japanese surrender in August 1945.

With the number of surviving World War II veterans dwindling steadily, and the Greatest Generation and its wartime experiences moving from living memory to the history books, the long-standing belief that World War II was Americas last good war is receding as well.

That point is further reinforced by a YouGov poll released Tuesday that sampled the opinions of Americans and residents of the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain.

And with no end in sight to the war in Ukraine, and with Europe arming itself against a belligerent Russia, the poll shows real fears of a new worldwide conflict erupting within the next 5 to 10 years, with that fear most pronounced among Europeans.

Barely 3 in 10 of American respondents (31%) have the same fears, according to the poll.

And if there is a new world war, large majorities of all respondents (68%-76%) believe it would involve nuclear weapons, with most respondents (57%-73%) concluding that it would lead to a higher casualty count.

And that gives the data about World War II some additional resonance.

In general, Americans, the British, and the French are more inclined to view their countries involvement in the war with pride, compared to Germany and Italy, former Axis powers, where there still is a collective sense of national shame over the war, according to the poll.

The result in the United States shows a partisan split, with three-quarters of Republicans (76%) inclined to be proud of the U.S., compared to a clear majority of Democrats (56%).

The poll also shows more ambivalence among Democrats (29%) about American involvement in the war than among Republicans (15%).

The canvass also found broad agreement among residents of all the nations polled that its important to teach new generations about the war and the events that led to it, from 90% of respondents in Great Britain to 88% of respondents in the United States.

The number did not dip below 8 in 10 among any of the nations polled.

Majorities of respondents, from 84% in Great Britain to 81% in the United States, also said they believed the events leading to World War II remained relevant to the world today.

And while theres also broad agreement about the inherent evil of the Nazi atrocities committed against Jewish people and other ethnic and social minorities, other acts committed during the war, also come in for scrutiny.

That includes the Allied fire bombing campaigns in Europe. The majority of respondents in the United States, Great Britain, and France view it as morally justified.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the nations on the receiving end of that bombing, Germany and Italy, dont feel the same way, according to the poll.

More American Republican respondents (67%) view the bombing campaign as justified, compared to Democrats (53%).

There is a similar division of partisan sentiment about the atomic bombs dropped on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in late 1945 that hastened the war to a close.

Fifty-four percent of Republicans called the atomic bombings justified, compared to 25% of Democrats. Barely a third of all Americans (38%) now believe the bombing campaign was justified, according to the poll.
The top Democrat in the Massachusetts state Senate made a direct appeal to the upper crust of Boston leaders on Wednesday, urging them to speak up as the Republican Trump administration does battle with the Bay State over trade, federal funding and other key issues.

Speaking to the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce in Bostons Seaport neighborhood, Senate President Karen E. Spilka called on those business leaders to use their combined clout and their voices to speak up.

" I hope you will all use your collective voices to let the Trump Administration, Congress, and the federal government know when their policies are harming your businesses, your employees, your families and your bottom linesas well as the state we are lucky enough to call home," Spilka, D-Middlesex/Norfolk, said in remarks that stretched to 33 minutes.

The business group, she noted, represents 1,200 organizations that include large and small corporations, nonprofit groups, and law firms, adding that she could "only imagine the billions of dollars in economic activity you represent when taken all together."

So, while the Senate will do "all we can to uphold the rule of law, separation of powers and due process, but we are limited in what we can do and we cant do it alone, she continued, casting that effort against the recent celebrations of the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Lexington.

Thats why we need your partnership more than ever to call out, when appropriate, a president who wants to be king and a Congress that is handing over its power to that president, she said.

The Ashland Democrat has emerged as one of the most forceful legislative critics of the Republican White House, repeatedly denouncing what she has described as the destructive impact of its policies on Massachusetts.

Spilka beat that same drum during her speech to business leaders, saying she fears that "the massive changes being made by this administration at the federal level are not just reshaping our government, they are also threatening our way of life and our basic democratic principles."

Thats easy to see, she continued, when you think of our most vulnerable residents, families with children with complex medical needs, and our veteransamong otherswho rely on government programs like Medicaid, Head Start or the VA. Or when you think of the peoplesurely some of you in this roomwho have had to fight to be afforded the same rights and privileges as other Americans."

But because she was in a room full of numbers people, Spilka also made a starkly economic argument, noting that chaos brought on by the White Houses trade war is " also a threat to our economy  and not just because economies crave stability.

Just this past fallpractically a lifetime ago at this point two MIT economists, together with their colleague from the University of Chicago won the Nobel prize in economics for their work to show that over time, open, inclusive and democratic countries have stronger economies," she said.

The argument echoed those made by other Bay State pols, including Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey and U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., that Trumps attacks on Harvard University would punch a hole in the states economy, prompting researchers and innovators to flee to other countries.

On Tuesday, Senate Democrats rolled out a $61.3 billion, no-tax-hike budget plan for the new fiscal year that starts July 1, which is premised heavily on federal funding.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, the Senates top budget-writer warned of potentially catastrophic consequences if Washington carries through on a threat to turn off the spigot.

Thats particularly true of MassHealth, a budget beast that serves millions of state residents, Senate Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Michael Rodriques, D-1st Bristol/Plymouth, said.

If the feds hit Medicaid, all bets are off Rodriques said.

On Tuesday night, states appeared to get a reprieve, as congressional Republicans ruled out some Medicaid reductions, putting the burden on Trumps loyalists to look elsewhere to pay for the White Houses tax cuts, according to Roll Call.

Spilka hit the high points of the majority-Democrat chambers fiscal blueprint: More money for public education, an effort to tame the states housing crisis, and public transportation.

But, she warned, no state, not even one as strong and resilient as Massachusetts, can fill the massive budget gaps that could arise if federal dollars are stripped away.

If that happens, she continued, it will put serious pressure on our budget, our families, our communities, and our businesses.

The Senate is scheduled to start debate on its budget proposal on May 20. The majority Democrat House passed its $61.4 billion version of the budget last week. Both proposals are below the $62 billion that Healey proposed earlier this year.

As we navigate the coming months and years, we truly will need to continue to work closely together to solve the most pressing problems before us and stand up for the state that we love, Spilka told the crowd.
A dry morning will give way to a stormy shake-up in Massachusetts on Wednesday as hail, thunderstorms and rain roll in.

The day started off with fog and low clouds statewide, which are both expected to burn off as the sun rises, according to the National Weather Service.

Peeks of sunshine are possible throughout the morning, forecasters said, with temperatures reaching the low 70s across almost all of the Bay State  except for the Cape & Islands, where highs may stay in the upper 60s.

But come afternoon, rain showers, thunder and even hail are in the mix.

The rain is projected to start in northern parts of Western Massachusetts, with scattered rain and thunderstorms through the afternoon.

Rain was beginning to fall in areas like North Adams and Greenfield as of 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, forecasters said.

Small hail could be expected, forecasters warn, and its not out of the question that some larger hailstones become possible.

The storms will be heaviest in northern parts of the state as it moves eastward, forecasters said.

The rain should let up by 5 p.m. as patchy fog rolls back in overnight to low-lying areas.

The fog could become more widespread and dense, especially along the southern coastline, forecasters said.

More late-day showers and rumbles of thunder are on the radar for Thursday during the day and temperatures could reach the upper 70s, forecasters said. Cape Cod & the Islands will again be in the 60s.

Forecasters are monitoring river levels for possible rises at or above flood stage on Thursday night, as we are unfortunately heading into another soggy Friday and possibly into Saturday as well.

More cool, windswept rain is on deck for the end of the work week and into Saturday, forecasters said, and temperatures could drop 20 degrees below normal for the daytime.

Though temperatures will remain on the cooler side Sunday, forecasters are eyeing drier weather and a gradual warming trend to start off next week.
In hopes to better understand Alzheimers disease, University of Massachusetts Amherst researchers began studying marmosets. But People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) said the monkeys were harmed in the process, experiencing injuries, missing teeth and infections.

Now, PETA is asking the U.S. Department of Agriculture to investigate possible violations of the Animal Welfare Act (AWA).

The marmosets in Dr. [Agnes] Lacreuses laboratory are being forced to spend their entire lives in a cage, enduring multiple major surgical procedures, frequent fluid restriction, lengthy restraint, and ultimately, death and dissection, PETA neuroscientist Katherine Roe said in a statement. ... when you add how consistently Lacreuse and her laboratory staff fail to provide these long-suffering animals even the minimal care required by law, resulting in illnesses and injuries, it is absolutely infuriating. It should be shut down immediately.
A hazardous waste removal specialist who was tasked with conducting environmental remediation at various sites in Western Massachusetts has agreed to give up his license after failing to comply to state standards.

Christopher P. Parent of Wilbraham entered into a consent agreement with the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Hazardous Waste Site Cleanup Professionals after several complaints were lodged against him by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protections Western Regional Office dating back to 2017.
The Roderick L. Ireland Courthouse in downtown Springfield. City officials are worried about will happen to the building after a new proposed courthouse is built. (Don Treeger / The Republican) 9/18/2024 The Republican

SPRINGFIELD  With the state trying to fast-track the construction of a new court in the city, residents and officials are asking about the fate of the existing Roderick L. Ireland Courthouse.

During a packed meeting last week designed to discuss a wide variety of issues about the plan to have the state Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance commission a private developer to build the courthouse and then lease it for a long term, many said they are concerned it will leave a vacant, hulking building behind in a key downtown location.
Video News: [Video News] La combinaison gagnante du Loto Vert du 6 mai 2025[Video News] Conference de presse Platform Citoyen du 6 mai 2025[Photos-Video News] Travaux en cours sur lIle aux Benitiers[Video news] Seance parlementaire du 6 mai 2025 en Live[Video News] Soiree douverture du 6e Festival du Film Europeen[Video News] Les numeros gagnants du tirage du Loto et Loto Plus du 3 mai 2025[Video News] Premieres heures des elections municipales au Ward Un de Port-Louis[Video News] Conference de presse du Commissaire Electoral[Video News] Tee Off du Tamarina Mauritius Amateur Open 2025[Video news] E-meeting du 1er Mai 2025 du Reform Party[Video News] Depot de gerbes de la GSEA a St Jean[Video News] Gheerishsing Gopaul :  Combat continue [Video News] Les numeros gagnants du tirage du Loto et Loto Plus du 30 avril 2025[Video News] Reprise des activites economiques[Video News] La combinaison gagnante du Loto Vert du 29 avril 2025[Video news] Pravind Rughoo a dit[Video news]Municipales 2025 : Rencontre avec Ruben Grenade[Video news] La NIC epaule les petits entrepreneurs[Video News] Les numeros gagnants du tirage du Loto et Loto Plus du 26 avril 2025[Video News] La combinaison gagnante du Loto Vert du 25 avril 2025[Photos/Video] Etat davancement des travaux de nettoyage et de ramassage de debris sur lIle aux Benitiers[Photos/Video] Grays, fier partenaire de Plastic Odyssey a travers la marque LOccitane en Provence[Video news] La NIC a lance deux nouveaux services pour les femmes entrepreneurs.[Video news] Conference de presse dEn Avant Moris du 24 avril 2025[Video News] Abiolabs celebre 10 ans dinnovation en sante preventive a loccasion de la Journee mondiale de lADN[Video News] Presentation de la 6e edition du Festival du Film Europeen[Video news] Presentation du HUAWEI MatePad 11.5[Video News] La combinaison gagnante du Loto Vert du 22 avril 2025[Video news] 10 ans dAbiolabs Ltd[Video news] Muncipales 2025: Rencontre avec Wersley Lachoumanan[Video news] Adil Ameer Meea a dit[Video news] 30e Assemblee Generale Annuelle de lAssociation of Mauritian Manufacturers[Video news]Le Professeur Serge Riviere et Dr Amaresh Ramlugan racontent la contribution des Colleges Royal[Video news] Lancement de  Veni, Vidi, Vici [Video News] Les numeros gagnants du tirage du Loto et Loto Plus du 19 avril 2025[Video news] Foundation Day pour les Nouveaux Democrates[Video News] La combinaison gagnante du Loto Vert du 18 avril 2025[Video News] Premieres Assises de levenementiel a Maurice : Exercice porteur despoir pour le secteur[Video New]Conference de presse du MSM du 17 aril 2025Parlons de :Leveque Murphy[Video News] Lancement de  Les mains invisibles [Video News] Les numeros gagnants du tirage du Loto et Loto Plus du 16 avril 2025[Video News] Municipales 2025 : Rencontre avec Giovanni Lacle[Video News] Maurice accueille la revolution capillaire signee LOreal Paris[Video news] Presentation dAvriLivre 2025[Video News] Voyage de Plastic Odyssey dans les eaux mauriciennes[Video News] La combinaison gagnante du Loto Vert du 15 avril 2025[Video news] Seance parlementaire du 15 avril 2025 en Live[Video News] World Expo 2025 Osaka[Video News] Lancement dElseve Glycolic Gloss[Video News] Presentation des candidats pour les Municipales 2025 du Reform Party[Video News] Status quo pour les prix des carburants[Vido News] Les investisseurs institutionnels, les innovations reglementaires et les investissements alternatifs au cur des discussions[Video news] Conference de presse de Platform Citoyen[Video News] Les numeros gagnants du tirage du Loto et Loto Plus du 9 avril 2025[Video News] Dans les coulisses de Devdas  Le Musical[Video News] Ceremonie douverture de PIAfrica 2025[Video News] La combinaison gagnante du Loto Vert du 8 avril 2025[Video news] Seance parlementaire du 8 avril 2025 en Live[Video News] Table ronde autour de lEducation[Video News] 12 candidats se sont enregistre pour le Ward 1 de Port-Louis[Video News] Les numeros gagnants du tirage du Loto et Loto Plus du 5 avril 2025[Video news] 407 candidats pour les municipales[Video News] La combinaison gagnante du Loto Vert du 4 avril 2025[Video News] Conference de presse dAtif AslamDerniere ligne droite pour les inscriptions pour lAnahita Trail 2025[Video News] Les numeros gagnants du tirage du Loto et Loto Plus du 2 avril 2025[Video News] La GSEA satisfiat des nominations[Video News] Made in Moris accueille 40 nouveaux adherents et renforce son reseauDeces de Val Krimer[Video News] La combinaison gagnante du Loto Vert du 1er avril 2025[Video news]  FinTech in Africa : Vision 2030 , un evenement dAMCHAM (Mauritius) en partenariat avec le Groupe MINDEX[Video News] Bryan Adams a dit[Video News] Les numeros gagnants du tirage du Loto et Loto Plus du 29 mars 2025[Video news] De la poubelle a Mare Chicose[Video news] Les 80 ans de Paul Berenger[Video news] Fintech in Africa  Vision 2030[Video News] Plusieurs Top 5 et Top 10 mondiaux parmi les meilleurs etudiants ACCA mauriciens de lannee 2024[Video News] La combinaison gagnante du Loto Vert du 28 mars 2025[Video news]Les entreprises mauriciennes unissent leurs forces lors du Responsible Business Summit 2025[Video News] Les numeros gagnants du tirage du Loto et Loto Plus du 26 mars 2025[Video News] La combinaison gagnante du Loto Vert du 25 mars 2025[Video news] Seance parlementaire du 25 mars en Live[Video News] Soiree litteraire a lICJM[Video News] Gokan Japan @ Grand Baie La Croisette[Video news] Fam pe zwen[Video news] Plus de 60 etudiants recompenses lors de lACCA High Achievers Celebration[Video News] Les numeros gagnants du tirage du Loto et Loto Plus du mars 2025[Video News] Casela Nature Parks fete ses 45 ans dans une ambiance entre heritage et avenir.[Video News] Brand Within 2025 : Faconner lavenir du travail a MauriceRegus Grand Baie, la solution ideale pour les entreprises et startups souhaitant simplanter dans le nord ![Video News] Casela Nature Parks a fete ses 45 ans[Video News] Les numeros gagnants du tirage du Loto et Loto Plus du 19 mars 2025[Video news] Conference de presse du Commissaire Electorale[Video news] Conference de presse de Bruneau Laurette[Video News] Rajesh Bhagwan et Joanna Berenger ont dit[Video news] PIM Limited celebre la Journee Mondiale du Recyclage[Video News] La combinaison gagnante du Loto Vert du 18 mars 2025[Video News] Seance parlementaire du 18 mars en Live[Video News] Shakeel Mohamed:  Livraison de provisions par le navire indien INS Imphal a Agalega 
Le ministre de la Securite Sociale a pris part aux debats sur ce projet de loi qui vient changer la donne sur les Commissions dEnquetes dont les rapports ne vont plus rester dans les tiroirs et seront deposes au Parlement.

Madame Speaker,

This Bill opens a wind of change. This government brings yet another visionary tool to reshape public interest issues in Mauritius.

The Bill, the Public Inquiries Bill, which will replace the more than 80-years-old Commission of Inquiry Act, heralds a significant shift on how matters of public interest and public importance will henceforth be investigated, for the benefit and betterment of Mauritian society and its people.

My party, Rezistans ek Alternativ, as a partner in the Alliance Du Changement fully supports this Bill.

A commission of inquiry is one of many bodies available to a country to inquire into various issues, sometimes on controversial ones.

Commission or Board of Inquiry report findings, give advice and make recommendations. While their findings are not legally binding, they can be highly influential and act as drivers of societal progress.

Commissions of Inquiry reflect social movements and social concerns of a particular moment.

Madame Speaker,

Commissions of Inquiry, can be great tool of social emancipation and progress.

In Mauritius, social upheavals against the harsh exploitation under colonial capitalism, produced two major Colonial Commissions of Inquiry. The dialectics of social struggles and Colonial Commissions of Inquiry laid the foundation of social progress in Mauritius.

After the major upheavals, riots, strikes in various parts of Mauritius in 1937, which resulted in the killing of 3 labourers, the British colonial government instituted the Hooper Commission of Inquiry. The Hooper Commission, lifted the ban on workers to organise and gave birth to the right for the workers of Mauritius to unionise in 1938.

The 1943 strike of labourers, when Anjalay Coopen and her comrades lost their lives, prompted the colonial government to institute the Moody Commission of Inquiry in 1944. The Moody Commission paved the way for the genesis of the welfare system in Mauritius and the birth of local democracy rural Mauritius, through the creation of Village Councils.

We can also refer to some examples in other countries

In South Africa, a variant of Commission of Inquiry was set up in 1996 after the end of apartheid. The Truth and Justice Commission of South which was court-like restorative justice. Set up by Nelson Mandela and chaired by Desmond Tutu, the commission invited witnesses who were identified as victims of gross human rights violations to give statements about their experiences, and selected some for public hearings. Perpetrators of violence could also give testimony and request amnesty from both civil and criminal prosecution. The Institute for Justice and Reconciliation was established in 2000 as the successor organisation of the TRC.

In Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody (19871991)

In Australia, prompted by public outcry over the high number of Indigenous deaths in custody during the 1980s, Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody (19871991). It investigated 99 cases between 1980 and 1989. While it found no evidence of unlawful killings, it highlighted systemic issues such as inadequate care and the impact of alcohol abuse. The commission made 339 recommendations aimed at reducing Indigenous incarceration and improving custodial conditions.

Here again we see the dialectical relation between historical social struggles and institutional commissions of inquiry, resulting in social emancipation and or human rights advancements.

Madame Speaker,

Yet, Commissions of Inquiry or Boards of Inquiry can be and have been used as tools against political opponents.

While the primary purpose of such commissions is to investigate matters of public interest and provide recommendations, they can be strategically manipulated to target and undermine political rivals.

For instance, a commission might be established to investigate a particular matter, but its terms of reference are subtly designed to ensnare a specific political figure or party. The commissions findings, regardless of their validity, can be used to damage the reputation or political standing of the target, even if theres no actual wrongdoing

Examples are numerous in many countries and in Mauritius too. The latest two of such politically motivated Commissions of Inquiry in Mauritius, being the Betamax Commission of Inquiry and the Commissions of Inquiry set up in the context of the institutional crisis, the Tug of War under the previous regime between the Presidency and the then Prime Minister.

Madame Speaker,

REA Supports this Bill for the following reasons:

An updating after 80 years was more than necessary.

More so, that some inherent residual inconsistencies and clumsiness since the advent of Independence, and Republic in 1992, needed to be addressed and cleared in law, so as to leaves no ambiguities, no misuse, as we have seen in the last wrangle, under the previous regime, between the Presidency and the then Prime Minister.

First, let us mention that the Constitution of Mauritius, with the advent of Independence in 1968 and the Republic in 1992, established in section 64, the clear line of demarcation of the Prime Minister and the Exercise of Presidents functions.

Let me quote:

64 Exercise of Presidents functions

(1) In the exercise of his functions under this Constitution or any other law, the President shall act in accordance with the advice of the Cabinet or of a Minister acting under the general authority of the Cabinet except in cases where he is required by this Constitution to act in accordance with the advice of, or after consultation with, any person or authority other than the Cabinet or in his own deliberate judgment.

When Mauritius became a Republic, various amendments were brought to various pieces of legislation in Mauritius in 1991. The Commission of Inquiry Act 1944 was one of the legislation.

There were 10 amendments brought to replace wherever it appears the Governor General with the President.

Thus the Commission of Inquiry Act 1944, starting with Section (1) 2, stated the following:

1. Appointment of Commissions of Inquiry

(1) 

(2) The President may issue a commission appointing one or more Commissioners and authorising such Commissioner or Commissioners, or such quorum of Commissioners as may be specified in the commission, to inquire into the conduct of any officer in the public service, or into the conduct or management of any department of the public service, or of any public or lo- cal institution, or into any matter relating to the public service, or into any matter of public interest or concern, or into any matter in which an inquiry would be for the public welfare.

Thus, when reading the Commission of Inquiry act 1944, separately from section 64 of the Constitution, one can come to erroneous conclusion that the President of the Republic can appoint a Commission of Inquiry. This was the erroneous reading which brought the Constitutional crisis between the previous Prime Minister and then President of the Republic.

This was confirmed THE COMMISSION OF INQUIRY ON MRS A. GURIB-FAKIM

former PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC.

At Page 156, Paragraph 8.2 of its Report, the COMMISSION concluded on the following:

8.2 Violation of section 64(1) of the Constitution

It is beyond dispute that Mrs Gurib-Fakim also violated section 64(1) of the Constitution when she set up the Commission of Inquiry on 16 March 2018. The Commission of Inquiry was set up pursuant to section 2(2) of the Commissions of Inquiry Act. In the exercise of her functions under such a law, Mrs Gurib-Fakim was not empowered to act otherwise than in accordance with the advice of Cabinet. Mrs Gurib-Fakim could only exercise her functions of appointing a Commission of Inquiry pursuant to a law, which is the Commissions of Inquiry Act, in accordance with the advice of Cabinet.

By virtue of the application of section 64(1) of the Constitution, the appointment of a Commission of Inquiry was not therefore a function which the President could perform in his own deliberate judgment or in any other manner except in accordance with the advice of Cabinet.

Mrs Gurib-Fakim violated the provisions of section 64(1) of the Constitution when on 16 March 2018 she proceeded to set up the Commission of Inquiry upon her own initiative, without the advice of Cabinet [See Chapter 6].

Thus, the new Bill, the Public Inquiries Bill, is now clarifying the legal framework to leave no ambiguities, no erroneous interpretation. It re-establishes in the law, clearly the Constitutional principle, that the institution of a Commission of Inquiry, is the prerogative of the executive, the Cabinet or of a Minister acting under the general

authority of the Cabinet.

The Bill now, in the spirit of the Constitution, confers this power to the Prime Minister, who the Chief of Cabinet.

The present Bill leaves no ambiguity, no room, as or who has the power to nominate Commission of Inquiry. It spares us from the institutional crisis, which bear the imprint of the previous regime.

The previous regime did not dare draw the lessons of the previous dangerous Constitutional crisis between the previous Prime Minister and the former President of the Republic.

We dare! We are bringing the necessary amendments with the new Public Inquiries Bill!

Where they failed, we act!

Madame Speaker,

In addition to addressing the legal above imbroglio, the new Public Inquiries Bill will be bringing at least 4 major qualitative leaping forward.

1. The Bill opens the door for Public Access & Scrutiny to proceedings of the Board of Inquiry

Section 13  Public access to proceedings

(1) Subject to section 14, the proceedings of an inquiry shall be held in public and the Chairperson shall take all reasonable steps as may be necessary to ensure that members of the public are able to 

(a) attend such proceedings;

(b) obtain or view a record of evidence given, and documents produced or provided, during such proceedings.

(a) (2) No recording or broadcast of proceedings of an inquiry may be ade, except 

(a) at the request of the Chairperson; or

(b) with the permission of the Chairperson and in accordance with such conditions as the Chairperson may impose.

2. The Bill set time bar for the completion of the Board of Inquiry.

Section 4. Terms of reference of Board of Inquiry

(1) (f) the date by which the inquiry report shall, subject to section 7(3), be submitted

Section 6. Duty to inform Assembly

(1) Where the Prime Minister proposes to set up a Board of Inquiry or has already set up a Board of Inquiry, he shall, as soon as is reasonably

practicable, make a statement to the Assembly setting out the terms of reference.

(2) A statement under subsection (1) shall state 

(a) who has been, or shall be, appointed as Chairperson;

(b) whether the Prime Minister has appointed, or proposes to appoint, any other member;

(c) the terms of reference, or the proposed terms of reference, of the Board of Inquiry; and

(d) the date by which the inquiry report shall be submitted.

(3) Where the terms of reference of a Board of Inquiry have been amended pursuant to section 4(2), the Prime Minister shall, as soon as is

reasonably practicable, make a statement to the Assembly setting out the amended terms of reference.

(4) Where 

(a) pursuant to section 8(5), the composition of a Board of Inquiry is altered or revoked; or

(b) pursuant to section 9(4), a member is replaced by another member, the Prime Minister shall make a statement to that effect to the Assembly.

3. The Bill renders it mandatory to make public the Report of the Board of Inquiry.

21. Laying of inquiry report before Assembly

The Prime Minister shall, not later than 30 days after receipt of the inquiry report under section 20, lay a copy of the inquiry report before the Assembly.

22. Publication of inquiry report in Gazette

A Board of Inquiry shall, not later than 30 days after submitting its inquiry report to the Prime Minister, cause the inquiry report to be published in the

Gazette.

4. The Bill includes a critical clause to protect the right of Persons likely to be prejudicially affected

18. Persons likely to be prejudicially affected to be heard

Where, at any stage of an inquiry 

(a) a Board of Inquiry is of the opinion that the reputation of any person is likely to be prejudicially affected by the inquiry, it shall give that

person a reasonable opportunity to being heard in the inquiry and to give evidence and produce any document in his defence; or

(b) a person is of the opinion that his reputation is likely to be prejudicially affected by the inquiry, the Board of Inquiry shall give

that person a reasonable opportunity to being heard in the inquiry and to give evidence and produce any document in his defence.

Madame Speaker,

In Conclusion, I will say that:

In the future, debates should held on the possibility to give Members of the National Assembly the power to instigate Commissions of Inquiry and their Terms of Reference, by way of motion or otherwise, as practice in various democracies.

In the mean time, Rezistans ek Alternativ is proud to be part of the political forces bringing in this new law of public interest.

Rezistans ek Alternativ, as part of the Alliance Changement, and as a party strongly committed to public transparency, truth and evidence based political decision, commend this Bill to the House.
Mayo man Declan Walsh has received the Pulitzer Price, one of the most prestigious awards known in journalism.

The Ballina native received the recognition in the category 'International Reporting' for his work covering the civil war in Sudan, together with the staff of The New York Times.

The statement from the jury read: "For their revelatory investigation of the conflict in Sudan, including reporting on foreign influence and the lucrative gold trade fueling it, and chilling forensic accounts of the Sudanese forces responsible for atrocities and famine."

Walsh himself wrote on his social media account: 'An immense honour to be awarded the Pulitzer Prize'.

READ: Spotlight on Human Trafficking: Mayo Public Awareness Event to feature experts and survivors stories

And his alma mater, St Muredach's College Ballina congratulated their former pupil: "Declans achievement is a powerful reminder to all our students that the values of truth, integrity, and courage can make a global impact."

An unexpected congratulations came from one of Declan's former student colleagues. Well known Irish comedian Dara O Briain posted on X/ Twitter:

TFW someone you worked with on a student newspaper in UCD 30 years ago, wins a bloody Pulitzer Prize! Huge congratulations to @declanwalsh, fully deserved. @UCDObserver https://t.co/y4pxlnEQQ8  Dara O Briain (@daraobriain) May 6, 2025

Walsh has won multiple awards

Walsh works as Chief Africa Correspondent for The New York Times, based in Nairobi. He was shortlisted for the Orwell Prize, and in 2019 he won a Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award for his reporting from Yemen.

In 2020 he published a book, The Nine Lives of Pakistan, that won the Cornelius Ryan Award for nonfiction from the Overseas Press Club of America, and in 2024 Walsh was part of a team that won a Press Club award for its coverage of Russia and Ukraine.

READ: Popular Mayo beach named in world's top fifty best beaches
This is 'not the triumph people think it is', Hilary OConnor, Consultant Solicitor and Mediator, tells the Mayo News, after the first successful Workplace Relations Commission case brought under the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023.

Its a 'toothless piece of legislation', Westport-based OConnor explains that even though employees were really excited when it was introduced, the WRC will not look at the merit of the decision, they will just look at the process.

READ MORE:Mayo top destination for remote work relocation

Laura del Rosal, Chapter Leader, Grow Remote Westport, has been following the WRC decisions closely and was disappointed by the result as I didnt see it as a win for work-life balance, it was a slap on the wrist for Salesforce, who were just a few days off in reaching their decision. It was just a technicality.

Far from remote working becoming more common, a lot of companies are going back to five days a week or requiring remote workers to report into the office three times a week, which is a trend that del Rosal says is a shame to see.

She argues the current legislation is not working and hasnt done anything to support employees who want to work remotely.

Del Rosal would like to see the Government introduce clearer legislation, offer more support to employers who want to move towards remote working and invest in more remote hubs.

There are currently 23 Connected Hubs listed in Mayo, according to ConnectedHubs.ie

OConnor doesnt see any prospect of the current legislation being tested in the courts as all you can hope for is four weeks pay because the employer did not consider it within the four week timeframe.

The Westport chapter of Grow Remote currently has 25 members and their next meet up is on Saturday, May 24, at 10am at Westport Adventure.

The event offers a chance to get active, meet fellow remote professionals, and enjoy some outdoor fun. The event is mostly funded by Grow Remote, with a 10 donation per participant. To register, participants can search for "Grow Remote" or the Zoom to Zipline event on Eventbrite.ie, where full details are available.

Grow Remote is a community-driven initiative that supports remote and hybrid workers by offering opportunities to connect, collaborate, and grow locally. With over 80 chapters across Ireland, Grow Remote helps individuals find remote roles, provides resources for success, and strengthens local economies by fostering a connected remote work community.
Xi calls on China, Russia to resist attempts to sow discord in friendship

Xinhua) 14:45, May 07, 2025

MOSCOW, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday called on China and Russia to jointly resist any attempts to sow discord in the friendship and mutual trust between the two sides.

Xi made the remarks in a signed article published Wednesday by the Russian Gazette newspaper ahead of his arrival in Russia for a state visit and attendance at the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War.

China and Russia are major countries with significant influence, as well as constructive forces for maintaining global strategic stability and improving global governance, Xi said.

The China-Russia relationship, he said, has a clear historical logic, a powerful internal driver and profound cultural heritage.

The bilateral relationship is neither directed at any third party nor affected by any third party, he added.

He also cautioned that the two countries should not be distracted by fleeting clouds, or disturbed by high winds and rough waves of events.

Xi urged the two sides to jointly promote the process of world multi-polarization and jointly promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind with the certainty and resilience of China-Russia strategic coordination.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
by Adam Buckman , Featured Columnist, May 7, 2025

When The Conners ended its run on ABC last month, it brought an end to a sensational TV story that began in March 2018.

It was the story of the stunning revival of Roseanne, its cancellation three months after it premiered in spring 2018, and then the premiere the following fall of The Conners, the spin-off sitcom that was created without Roseanne Barr.

The Conners would go on to last seven seasons. When it ended in April, it came full circle with an episode that honored the memory of its unseen star and guiding light.

The first episode of The Conners in fall 2018 was titled Keep On Truckin. It had a double meaning.

advertisement advertisement

It referred to the way the cast of both the Roseanne revival and the original Roseanne (1988-97) came together to continue the story of the Conner family without the shows star.

It also referred to the family situation within the show itself as they mourned the death of their matriarch Roseanne Conner, who was said to have died from an unintentional opioid overdose.

Roseanne Barr never returned to the show. But over time, the missing mom, sister and wife became the subject of fond memories among the family members.

The half-hour, final episode of The Conners that aired April 23 was titled The Truck Stops Here, a direct reference to the title of Episode One, Keep On Truckin.

In The Truck Stops Here, memories of Roseanne Conner were front and center as the family finally seemed to get the closure that had eluded them since her death.

The seventh and final season of The Conners consisted of just six episodes starting on March 26.

In that season premiere, Dan Conner (John Goodman) made the decision to sue the pharmaceutical company that manufactured the opioid medication that his late wife died from.

In the series finale, the extended Conner family assembled at Roseannes grave to say the final farewells that they had never before been able to make (photo above).

In interviews, the cast members have said that the good-byes were also to each other since the shows core cast had been members of the Conner family since 1988.

At the graveside, Dan ceremoniously opened the envelope that contained the check for the agreed-upon settlement with the pharma company -- just $700.

We wanted to stay true to whats really happening in the legal system, said executive producer Bruce Helford in an interview with People magazine. Its about family resilience, and shows that money does not create happiness.

Roseanne Barr became persona non grata at ABC, and TV in general, after she posted a tweet in May 2018 suggesting that Valerie Jarrett, an African-American aide to President Obama, was descended from apes.

The tweet was interpreted as racist and the new Roseanne was canceled the next morning after nine episodes, even though it had emerged from the get-go as the most successful new show of the 2017-18 season.

As for Roseanne Barrs reaction to the series finale of The Conners, her son, Jake Pentland, said last month that his mother was not aware of it. She now lives in Texas.

Photo courtesy of ABC. Roseannes family 2025: (l-r) Dan Conner (John Goodman), Ben Olinsky (Jay R. Ferguson), Darlene Conner Olinsky (Sarah Gilbert), Becky Conner-Healy (Lecy Gorenson), Tyler (Sean Astin), Jackie Harris-Goldufski (Laurie Metcalf) and Neville Golduski (Nat Faxon).
by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, May 6, 2025

Google has begun to release details on how artificial intelligence will improve advertising. The company on Tuesday introduced a suite for search campaigns with one-click features where AI learns from current keywords, creative and URLs to help ads serve up related to more relevant searches.



The suite in Google Ads -- AI Max for Search -- will begin rolling out to advertisers globally in beta later this month. The platform brings improved targeting and creative enhancements supported by Google AI for Search campaigns.

AI Max for Search offers smarter search-term matching to expand on existing keywords using broad match and keywordless technology to find more relevant and high-performing search queries.

Keywords and keywordless matches are prioritized in serving the same way they are today in Search and Performance Max campaigns.

advertisement advertisement

Improving performance with the ability to access new queries is intended to give advertisers greater control and transparency in reporting, something the industry has been asking for.

Data in early tests shows that advertisers activating AI Max in Search campaigns will typically see 14% more conversions, or conversion value at a similar cost per acquisition (CPA) and return on ad spend (ROAS). For campaigns that are still mostly using exact and phrase keywords, the typical uplift is even higher at 27%, according to Google.

LOreal reported 2x higher conversion rates and 31% lower costs by tapping into net-new search queries with AI Max.

MyConnect, based in Australia, used AI Max to boost leads by 16% while cutting cost-per-action by 13%.

Under the asset optimization panel in AI Max, text customization, formerly known as automatically created assets, helps to generate new text assets, like headlines and descriptions, based on your landing page, ads and keywords.

AI Max comes with new controls that provide precision previously used for keywords. And now, exclusively in AI Max for Search campaigns, locations of interest help advertisers reach specific customers based on their geographical intent at the ad group level.
by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, May 6, 2025

The U.S. Department of Justice asked a federal judge to force Google to divest two key pieces of its advertising-technology business to address an illegal monopoly.

The plan filed in court on Monday makes Google two businesses, AdX, a digital ad exchange, and DoubleClick for Publishers (DFP), its ad delivery system.

U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema ruled in April the Googles combined businesses violates federal competition laws across digital ad ecosystem and harms advertisers, publishers, and consumers.

Google filed its proposed remedies to the Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, and then in a blog post published Tuesday outlined the details. Lee-Anne Mulholland, vice president of regulatory affairs at Google, explained that before the company can appeal the process, it is required to outline remedies that respond to the courts decision.

advertisement advertisement

Google offered a proposal that addresses the Courts findings, and would make it easier for publishers to use Google Ad Manager with other ad tech providers, while minimizing disruption.

The full remedies proposal in this document is outlined here, but the top three include:

1) Make real-time bid amounts for open web display ads from our ad exchange (AdX) available to all rival publisher ad servers;

2) Deprecate Unified Pricing Rules for open-web display ads, giving publishers the option to set different price floors for different bidders when using Google Ad Manager;

3) Commit to not using first look" and last look for open-web display ads. These auction dynamics were phased out of Google Ad Manager years ago.

The trial is scheduled to take place in September.

Google is responding to a court filing that the DOJ released Monday evening that describes a three-step approach that would reimagine how Google conducts business. It also could disrupt online advertising.

The DOJs plan would require that Google sell its digital ad marketplace AdX and DoubleClick For Publishers. Google would need to open AdXs real-time bidding data to rival ad servers via Prebid, an open-source tool for ad bidding.

The second phase requires Google share code that determines the ad being served on a specific page, auction logic behind DFP making it open source. It would expose proprietary information such as how its ad auctions interacts with the broader market and allow third parties to run the final auction.

The final phase requires a full divestiture of AdX and DFP. It would be overseen by a court-appointed trustee, and subject to DOJ approval of the buyers.

Once the divestitures are complete, Google would be barred from operating any ad exchange for 10 years.
by Tanya Gazdik , May 6, 2025

Lucid Motors has hired a veteran CPG executive as its new top marketer.

Akerho "AK" Oghoghomeh joins the company as senior vice president of marketing. Most recently, he was CMO at Beyond Meat. He previously was senior vice president of brand marketing at Red Bull.

He replaces Andrea Soriani, who left Lucid in November to take the post of general manager of Maserati North America, where he previously was global brand marketing manager.

Oghoghomeh will play a key role in accelerating Lucid's marketing initiatives, increasing the reach and relevancy of the Lucid brand, strengthening consumer engagement, and driving global growth, according to the automaker.

advertisement advertisement

I see an incredible opportunity to shape Lucid into a cultural force: a brand deeply rooted in sport, design, and creativity, with relevance that extends far beyond the garage, Oghoghomeh writes in a LinkedIn post. I'm energized by the chance to help grow both the brand and the business, and to lead a global marketing organization bold enough to match the ambition of the company itself.

Oghoghomeh says he is excited to support interim CEO Marc Winterhoffs vision for Lucid: one rooted in performance, innovation, and cultural relevance.

The automaker has hired several other key executives recently, including Erwin Raphael as vice president of revenue, where he will be responsible for sales, service and customer care teams.

Raphael has more than 28 years of automotive industry experience, and most recently served as a logistics operations executive at Amazon. He was also previously the chief operating officer at Genesis Motor North America, where he led the launch of several new vehicles for the brand.

Both Oghoghomeh and Raphael will report directly to Winterhoff.
by Danielle Oster , May 6, 2025

Mountain Dews refreshed brand logo is now rolling out across retailers nationwide, and the brand is giving fans with tattoos of their old logo a chance for an update.

Those who send photos of their tattoos to the contest will get a chance to win an an all-expenses trip to Las Vegas, where theyll receive a tattoo of the new logo at Mario Barths Starlight Tattoo Studio.

The tattoo sweepstakes is part of PepsiCos larger brand refresh campaign for Mountain Dew, featuring a TV ad, the brand lighting up The Sphere in Las Vegas, Drone Show Spectacular events, and a Dickies partnership.

A 30-second TV spot at the center of the campaign revives the brands Gimme A Dew jingle from the 1980s. Gimme A Dew opens with the Mountain Dude character the brand introduced last year interrupting a guy lounging on a couch to tell him The mountain is calling. As he hands him a can of Mountain Dew, hes transported to a mountain oasis with friends, as the jingle plays in the background.

advertisement advertisement

The Drone Show Spectacular activation kicked off on May 2, with what the brand claims were the largest drone shows ever in Illinois (at Chicago Northerly Island Park) and Iowa (near the Des Moines River). May 6 will feature what it claims is the largest drone show in Utah, with the show coming to University of Utah, followed by an event in Dallas, Texas at the Dallas Reunion Tower on May 7.

To lean into the brand's shift to a focus on the outdoors, it partnered with Dickies on a Mountain Dew Workshirt featuring vintage-inspired details, including the original Mountain Dew fonts and logos in heritage green on the sleeve and back of the shirt -- and the new logo on its front. Its being sold exclusively on the brand's TikTok Shop, bundled with two Mountain Dew Mini 10-packs.

The new Mountain Dew look celebrates our iconic heritage while setting a new foundation for the future; reinforcing what it means to Do the Dew and the importance of having a damn good time with friends, PepsiCo US Beverages CMO Mark Kirkham said in a statement.

Mountain Dew began transitioning into the updated branding last summer with a Welcome To Mountain Time campaign laying claim to ownership of the Mountain Time Zone, which introduced the Mountain Dude character. The brand then unveiled its new logo and visual brand identity last October.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, May 7, 2025

Family members of Clementa Pinckney, who was killed in a racially motivated mass shooting by Dylann Roof, want the Supreme Court to revive a lawsuit against Meta Platforms, which allegedly recommended material to Roof that encouraged his racist and violent views.

Earlier this year, the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals said in a 2-1 ruling that Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act protected Meta from liability for Facebook recommendations. That law immunizes web companies from liability for publishing content posted by users.

The panel also said that even without Section 230, the allegations against Facebook, even if proven true, wouldn't show that the platform caused the shooting.

Pinckney's family argues in a petition quietly filed last week with the Supreme Court that Section 230 doesn't protect social platforms from lawsuits over recommendations.

advertisement advertisement

Neither Section 230s text nor its history suggests that Meta should be immune ... for its own choices to manipulate users by recommending the most damaging content possible, lawyers for the family argue. And neither Section 230s text nor its history provides immunity for suggesting that a person join a group of white supremacists.

The lower court's ruling came in a 2022 lawsuit by Jennifer Pinckney, widow of Clementa Pinckney, on behalf of her daughter, identified in court papers as M.P. Her father, Clementa Pinckney -- a South Carolina state senator and pastor at Mother Emanuel church -- was one of nine people killed by Roof on June 17, 2015.

The complaint alleged that Roof was shown so much white supremacist propaganda that he believed the heinous act he ultimately committed at Mother Emanuel was necessary to spark a race war and save the white race.

Pinckney alleged that Facebook was defectively designed, and that the company was negligent.

U.S. District Court Judge Mark Gergel dismissed the case in September 2023, ruling that they were barred by Section 230.

Pinckney then appealed to the 4th Circuit, arguing that Section 230 shouldn't immunize web companies from liability in this situation.

The appellate judges rejected that argument, writing that the claims in the complaint are inextricably intertwined with Facebooks role as a publisher of third-party content.

While there is widespread concern about Facebooks use of its algorithm to arrange and sort racist and hate-driven content, acts of arranging and sorting content are integral to the function of publishing, Circuit Judge Barbara Milano Keenan wrote in an opinion joined by Judge Albert Diaz.

Circuit Judge Allison Jones Rushing partially dissented, noting that one of the allegations against Facebook was that it recommended Roof join extremist groups.

Recommending that a user join a group, connect with another user, or attend an event is Facebooks own speech, for which it can be held liable, she wrote, adding that she would have returned the matter to the district court for further proceedings.

Milano countered in the majority opinion that the complaint didn't allege that Facebook recommend that Roof join a specific hate group or that Roof joined a hate group based on a Facebook algorithm referral.

The 4th Circuit isn't the only appellate court to clear Meta of liability over recommendations. In 2019, the 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals, also ruled that Section 230 protected Facebook from liability over algorithmic recommendations.

In that matter, Facebook was sued by family members of people killed in Israel by terrorists, and one survivor of an attack in that country. The plaintiffs alleged that Facebook wrongly allowed its platform to be used by terrorist organizations who sought to organize and recruit new members, and that the company's algorithmic recommendations helped introduce thousands of terrorists to one another, facilitating the development of global terror networks.

A split 2nd Circuit panel sided with Meta, ruling 2-1 that the use of algorithms to recommend third-party content doesn't deprive companies of Section 230 protections.

But last year, the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals said Section 230 didn't protect TikTok from liability over recommendations. The judges in that case said TikTok's algorithmic curation of users' speech is TikTok's own expressive activity, and therefore not protected by Section 230.
by Colin Kirkland , May 7, 2025



Snapchat has made several new announcements ahead of its NewFronts presentation Wednesday night, including the launch of a new location-specific brand campaign, AI campaign solutions, a plethora of advertising updates for brands and creators, and an in-person live music series.

Most notably, Snapchat is adding enhanced functionality to its newest ad product, Sponsored Snaps, which became the company's largest single-day reach product at the end of last year, delivering a 30% increase in reach on average in the U.S.

Since rolling out Sponsored Snaps with major brands like Wendy's last month, Snapchat is looking to expand targeting options for brands and creators running campaigns directly in users' chat inboxes.

advertisement advertisement

Now, the company is rolling out First Snap, a first-impression single-day offering that delivers snaps in the chat feed.

These ads can open to a full-screen video, and result in a call-to-action from the advertiser, which the user can then participate in.

Eventually, Snap may allow users to chat directly with the advertiser through this form of Sponsored Snap.

Over the past year, Snap has made more of an effort to link its creator ecosystem with its ad business, most recently launching an Affiliate Program in an effort to compensate and educate advertisers, creators and publishers. As a new extension of Sponsored Snaps, the company has announced another way for creators and brands to connect.

Advertisers can now send a Sponsored Snap directly from a creator's handle to users in the chat feed.

The company says brands can use existing workflows to partner with a creator and send snaps directly to the chat.

Snapchat is also launching new AI-driven campaign solutions. Smart Bidding, for example, invites advertisers to set a target cost-per-action (CPA) they wish to achieve so that Snap's AI systems, which automatically adjust bids and budgets, can deliver a CPA within a reasonable range of that bid.

Smart Budget is another AI-powered tool that allows advertisers to automatically shift spend to the highest performing ad sets within a campaign to help maximize outcomes while reducing time spent on Ads Manager. This solution is currently in the alpha testing phase, but Snap says it is seeing encouraging performance.

Looking to compete with other social media platforms vying for emerging music-related content, Snapchat is also launching its own live music series, Under the Ghost, hosted at the company's studio in Santa Monica, California.

The series aims to connect music creators with both fans and brands by allowing advertisers to sponsor individual shows via full-funnel media packages, including Sponsored Snaps, creator content, Total Takeover placements and more.

And lastly, Snapchat is launching a new OOH brand campaign called Say it in a Snap, which will appear on various billboards across New York City, including in subway stations, Times Square, Citi Field, MSG, as well as JFK and LaGuardia airports.

In June, the company will be rolling out an additional B2B campaign across digital media channels such as podcasts.
Psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, may improve mood and motor symptoms in Parkinsons disease patients

Highlights: Psilocybin improved both mood and motor function in Parkinsons patients

Effects lasted up to three months post-treatment without serious side effects

A larger trial is underway to confirm results and explore brain healing mechanisms

  Trusted Source

Psilocybin therapy for mood dysfunction in Parkinson's disease: an open-label pilot trial



Go to source Trusted Source

Did You Know?

This is the first time a psychedelic mushroom compound has been studied in the context of a neurodegenerative disease.

This is the first time a psychedelic mushroom compound has been studied in the context of a neurodegenerative disease.

Advertisement

Can Psychedelic Mushrooms Help Heal the Parkinsons Brain?

  Trusted Source

Can Mushrooms Boost Health in Parkinson's Patients? New Study Shows Promise



Go to source Trusted Source

Advertisement

What is Psilocybin and Why It Matters

  Trusted Source

Psilocybin Shows Promise for Parkinson's Mood and Motor Symptoms



Go to source Trusted Source

Groundbreaking Study at UCSF

  Trusted Source

Can mushrooms help boost health in Parkinson's patients?



Go to source Trusted Source

Why Mood Matters in Parkinsons

What the Numbers Say

Whats Next: A Larger Trial Underway

Psilocybin therapy for mood dysfunction in Parkinson's disease: an open-label pilot trial - (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40205013/) Can Mushrooms Boost Health in Parkinsons Patients? New Study Shows Promise - (https://indianewengland.com/can-mushrooms-boost-health-in-parkinsons-patients-new-study-shows-promise/) Psilocybin Shows Promise for Parkinsons Mood and Motor Symptoms - (https://neurosciencenews.com/psilocybin-parkinsons-neurology-28783/) Can mushrooms help boost health in Parkinson's patients? - (https://www.ahmedabadmirror.com/can-mushrooms-help-boost-health-in-parkinsons-patients/81890243.html)

A psychedelic substance derived from magic mushrooms demonstrates potential beyondmental alteration because it shows evidence of working directly on brain healing. Scientific studies have uncovered surprisingfor psilocybin found in certain mushrooms when used as treatment for Parkinson's disease which damages movement and mood gradually ().New scientific evidence demonstrates that the natural psychedelic substance helps break depression and improves anxiety symptoms and motor coordination in Parkinson's disease patients. Psychedelics were once considered taboo but they are now emerging into the public eye possibly leading to originalsolutions. A new perspective on healing experiences is ready to develop.A "magic mushroom" holds potential to alleviate symptoms from one of the challenging and disabling brain diseases. The symptoms of Parkinson's disease have been directly linked to tremors along with stiffness and progressive movement deterioration for numerous decades.represent the most difficult aspects to manage during Parkinsons disease for numerous patients ().People find hope through an unconventional candidate named psilocybin which acts as the primary chemical agent in psychedelic mushrooms. Research from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) demonstrates that psilocybin's active compound brings more benefits thanincluding cognitive and motor enhancement. And whats more? The therapeutic effects sustain even when the substance leaves the body system.Nature produces psilocybin as a psychedelic chemical in more than 180 different mushroom species. The scientific community explores the strong neurochemical properties of psilocybin after decades of association with religious practices and drug subcultures.After metabolism in the body psilocybin transforms into psilocin that attaches to brainreceptors to influence mental processes including mood perception and cognition.Research conducted at medical facilities demonstrates its beneficial effects on patients dealing with depression that remains unresponsive to conventional treatments and also helps patients who suffer from PTSD or substance abuse disorders ().The specific quality that makes psilocybin remarkable is the alteration ofthat persists after a single or dual dosage because most antidepressants require. Parkinson's treatment benefits from the unusual properties of psilocybin because they allow simultaneous replacement of traditionaltreatments which current medications fail to provide. Neuroplasticity enhancement through psilocybin treatment might be beneficial for Parkinsons patients because of the conditions progressiveAn open-label pilot clinical trial (NCT04932434) at UCSF gave 12 participants (5 females and 7 males) who had mild to moderate Parkinsons disease psilocybin therapy. The study subject received anwhich then transitioned to aseparated byTesting safety and tolerability was the main purpose of this study which found positively that drug administration did not cause any critical adverse effects or worsening symptoms and producedThe secondary results from the study proved even more convincing to investigators. The subject participants experienced significantand motor function according to clinical assessment. The observed outcomes lasted throughafter the patients completed treatment. The scientific team observed better performances in spatial memory together with improvements in planning tasks and motor skills that Parkinsons patients require for their independence. Psilocybin shows great potential as a therapeutic compound because it provides early evidence of addressing multiple Parkinson's disease symptoms ().Parkinsons disease brings physical symptoms includingtogether with(slowness of movement) but mental repercussions receive less attention from many professionals. The condition affects 50% of patients when depression or anxiety emerges several years before motor symptoms develop.as lead researcher and Associate Director pointed out thatstands as a significant indicator for both diminished physical health andin Parkinsons patients.The mood symptoms of Parkinson's disease patients do not respond to traditional antidepressants because these symptoms occur as part of theinstead of being a distinct psychiatric condition. The development of novel treatments to treat the root cause of Parkinsons emotional aspects represents an essential medical objective.High similarity between psilocybin and this hit-and-run solution exists because the drug activates serotonin functions and improves emotional regulation. The improvement of mood creates a secondary boost to physical movement and social interaction which remain integral for Parkinsons disease management.The analyzed data produced outstanding quantitative outcomes from the study. Thedepression scores decreased anwhilescoresindicating clinically significant impacts.Several areas of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale showed improvement through the following measurements: non-motor symptoms scored -, daily activities improved by -7.5 points and motor function decreased by -4.6 points.The subjects performed cognitive tasks such asduring which measured improvements were noted. The research is exciting because improvements lasted for a duration of one to three months beyond the treatment period. Laboratory testing demonstrates that psilocybin restores brain activities that have been lost instead of just hiding the symptoms which represents a remarkable advancement for neurodegenerative treatments.Research teams use the positive findings from this initial study to establish a follow-up randomized controlled trial with an increased participant number. The extended investigation will take place in the combination of UCSF and Yale University and include. Expansion of this research includes diverse patient testing while using brain imaging techniques and electrical stimuli and biological markers to observe how psilocybin changesin Parkinsons patients.The researchers obtain funding for this next stage from both the Michael J. Fox Foundation and an anonymous contributor who financed the original study. The team aims to determine both the effectiveness of psilocybin along with its underlying mechanisms to create future treatments approved by the FDA. This successful outcome would create a major change in the way we study Parkinsons disease and brain conditions which could result in brain self-recovery alongside disease control.Source-Medindia
Raw egg mayonnaise has been banned across Tamil Nadu to prevent serious bacterial infections and protect public health.

Highlights: Raw egg mayonnaise linked to dangerous pathogens like Salmonella and Listeria

like and Tamil Nadu enforces year-long statewide ban to prevent foodborne illness outbreaks

enforces year-long to prevent foodborne illness outbreaks Street food versions often skip hygiene, posing high contamination risk

  Trusted Source

Tamil Nadu Government Gazette Extraordinary



Go to source Trusted Source

  Trusted Source

Mayonnaise banned in Tamil Nadu for one year: Here's why



Go to source Trusted Source

Did You Know?

Raw egg mayonnaise can carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Listeria, which may cause severe gastrointestinal illness, especially in children and elderly. #medindia #raweggrisk #foodsafetyalert #mayonnaiseban

Raw egg mayonnaise can carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Listeria, which may cause severe gastrointestinal illness, especially in children and elderly. #medindia #raweggrisk #foodsafetyalert #mayonnaiseban

Advertisement

High-Risk Contaminants in Raw Egg Mayonnaise

Advertisement

Widespread Ban Across Food Sectors

Actions Taken by Other States

Pasteurization as a Safer Alternative

Tamil Nadu Government Gazette Extraordinary - (https://foodsafety.tn.gov.in/api/media/notification_files/MAYONNAISE_BAN_ORDER.pdf) Mayonnaise banned in Tamil Nadu for one year: Here's why - (https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/tamil-nadu-bans-sale-and-storage-of-high-risk-mayonnaise-for-one-year/articleshow/120579140.cms?from=mdr)

is nowfordue to its potential to cause. The prohibition covers all stages of the food supply chain  from manufacturing and storage to sale and distribution  and was enacted to prevent contamination by harmful bacteria linked to raw egg usage ().The decision, announced by the Food Safety Commissioner through the Government Gazette, is supported by provisions under the, which allow immediate action against food items considered hazardous to public health. Similar restrictions have already been enforced infollowing a spike in food poisoning cases ().Frequently paired with foods like shawarma (popular Middle Eastern dish), raw egg mayonnaise is made with egg yolk, oil, vinegar, and seasonings. When raw eggs are used without pasteurization or proper hygiene, the product becomes asuch as, and. These bacteria pose a serious risk, particularly to children, elderly individuals, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems The Tamil Nadu Food Safety Department raised concerns that food vendors often fail to follow safe practices when preparing mayonnaise, such as using refrigeration or maintaining hygiene standards, which contributes to microbial contamination.The ban is applicable across all platforms handling food  including and is intended to function as a preventive health measure. According to the official directive, no food product currently restricted by state or national authorities can be processed or sold by food businesses.Under the law, temporary bans can be imposed as a form of provisional risk management, even if conclusive scientific evidence is still under evaluation. The goal is to curb any potential public health threat before it escalates.Tamil Nadus move mirrors those of Kerala and Telangana. In Telangana, raw egg mayonnaise was linked toin October 2024, prompting authorities to initiate a year-long ban. Officials noted that many eateries, especially shawarma stalls, were preparing mayonnaise with raw eggs under unsanitary conditions.Kerala acted earlier in 2023, after lab tests detected high bacterial loads in mayonnaise samples from local eateries. The state stressed the importance of hygiene and refrigeration, which were largely absent in homemade or street-side versions of the condiment.Unlike homemade varieties, many commercially available mayonnaise products are made with pasteurized eggs. Pasteurization eliminates harmful bacteria by gently heating the eggs without cooking them, making the final product far safer. Raw eggs, on the other hand, can be contaminated at the source and easily multiply bacteria when not refrigerated properly.Symptoms of infection can range from mild gastrointestinal distress to severe illness requiring hospital care. Tamil Nadu officials will continue monitoring food safety compliance and may reconsider the ban based on future assessments and safety improvements.To sum up, Tamil Nadu's one-year ban on raw egg mayonnaise aims to protect public health by preventing foodborne illnesses. Following similar actions in Kerala and Telangana, this move stresses the importance of proper food handling and hygiene to safeguard vulnerable populations.Source-Medindia
Anal cancer is rising fastest in older white and Hispanic women, sparking concern over the need for targeted screening and HPV prevention.

  Trusted Source

Rising Anal Cancer Rates Most Pronounced Among Older White and Hispanic Women



Go to source Trusted Source

Did You Know?

Anal cancer rates are rising rapidly among white and Hispanic women, particularly those over 65, a group not typically considered at risk. #medindia #analcancer #olderwomen

Anal cancer rates are rising rapidly among white and Hispanic women, particularly those over 65, a group not typically considered at risk. #medindia #analcancer #olderwomen

Sharp Rise in Cases Among White and Hispanic Women

Targeted Screening Recommended for Overlooked Groups

Advertisement

Rising Anal Cancer Rates Most Pronounced Among Older White and Hispanic Women - (https://bioengineer.org/rising-anal-cancer-rates-most-pronounced-among-older-white-and-hispanic-women/)
Post mid-night on May 7, 2025, India carried out focused strikes on nine terrorist sites in Pakistan and named it Operation Sindoor. Soon several Indian celebs applauded the Indian armed forces for their retaliation and avenging the tragic killing of 26 innocent Indians two weeks back in Pahalgam. Now, Pakistani celebs like Mahira Khan, Hania Aamir and Fawad Khan have shared their reactions to Operation Sindoor. While Fawad Khan was bashed by Pakistani social media users for his diplomatic reaction, Mahira and Hania have termed the strikes by India against the terrorists in Pakistan cowardly.

 Instagram/Hania Aamir Mahira Khan took to social media and shared writer Fatima Bhuttos tweet about India's Operation Sindoor and wrote, Seriously cowardly!!! May Allah protect our country, may better sense prevail. Ameen. She further wrote in a note, I am grateful that I live in a country where I am not dictated to say what I have to. I have a voice and I CAN use it. We speak up when there are injustices in our own land, we condemn violence wherever it happens even when my country Pakistan is instantly blamed without ANY evidence. India, your war and hate rhetoric has continued for many years. Have seen and experienced it with my own eyes. Your media fans the flames of division. Your most powerful voices remain silent in the face of genocide and war crimes - silenced not by law, but by Fear! And in that fear, you claim victory. But to me, that silence is your greatest defeat. You attack cities, in the middle of the night and call it a victory? Shame on you. My Pakistan, I love you. May we do the right thing. May we never stoop to that level even after this heinous provocation. May peace prevail. Ameen. Pakistan Zindabad. Pakistan Paaindabad. Hania Aamir, on the other hand, simply wrote, Cowardly on her Instagram story.

 Instagram/Mawra Hocane She further wrote, reacting to a different post, I dont have fancy words right now. I just have anger, pain and a heavy heart. A child is gone. Families are shattered. And for what? This is not how you protect anyone. This is cruelty - plain and simple. You dont get to bomb innocent people and call it strategy. This isnt strength. This is shameful. This is cowardly. And we see you. While Mawra Hocane, who starred in Sanam Teri Kasam wrote on X, Strongly condemn Indias cowardly attack on Pakistan.. Innocent civilians have lost their lives.. May Allah protect us all.. may sense prevail.. Ya Allah ho Ya Hafizo.. #PakistanZindabad. Check out the posts below:

A number of social media users slammed Pakistani actors for their stance and responses. One of them wrote, I'd like mahira khan to answer this since you broke your silence about our operation sindoor. where were you when those terrorists killed our people just because they weren't muslim. where were you when 26 of our were killed? allah tumhari nahi, hamari raksha kare tum jaiso se. Another user commented, Ive started hating Hania Aamir.And those who are using VPNs to see her content are jokers. A third user reacted, This is the true color of Hania Aamir from Pakistan for you. Stop supporting her and boycott her completely. Check out the responses below:
When William of Orange landed in Devon in 1688, he brought with him a force of some 40,000 men, carried by a huge fleet of 463 ships  three times the size of the Spanish Armada. The Dutch-born prince arrived with the intention of usurping a legitimate monarch  James II of England  but he did so at the behest of a powerful group of nobles. As a result, his invasion of England passed off so peacefully it became known as the Glorious Revolution.

Williams claim to the throne was based on the fact that he was the grandson of Charles I, and the husband of Mary, James IIs daughter. Perhaps most importantly, he was also a staunch defender of Protestantism at a time when the countrys national religion was seen to be under imminent Catholic threat. If it was largely accepted in England, however, Williams intervention was violently resisted in Scotland and Ireland, where the cause of the exiled James continued to thrive. In Europe, meanwhile, the new king would continue his long-running struggle with Louis XIV, leading a military alliance which waged war with France for nine years.

In our two-part special feature for this issue, Graham Goodlad looks first at the life and career of the last British monarch to manage a sustained military campaign in person, and then analyses in detail his part in the battle against French domination of the Low Countries.

This is an extract from a special feature on William III from the June/July 2025 issue of Military History Matters magazine.

Read the full article online on The Past, or in the print magazine: find out more about subscriptions to Military History Matters here.
Cheryl Mason, an attorney who once served as the chief executive officer of the Board of Veterans' Appeals and now works as a senior adviser to Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins, has been nominated as the department's next inspector general.

The nomination, announced late Tuesday, comes amid an ongoing lawsuit over the firings in January by President Donald Trump of more than a dozen inspectors general across the federal government, including Michael Missal, who had served as the VA's top watchdog since 2016.

Mason has worked on and off for the VA since 1990, gaining increasing responsibility across nearly three decades, including serving as a veterans law judge and managing the Board of Veterans' Appeals from 2017 to 2022, according to her LinkedIn page.

Read Next: VA Shifts Survivors Benefits Office Under Secretary with Goal to Improve Service

In February, she was named senior adviser to Collins, and in March was nominated to serve as assistant secretary in the VA's Office of Accountability and Whistleblower Protection.

The appointment of an inspector general has been a top priority for members of Congress who oversee the VA. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, repeatedly has asked VA officials when a nominee would be put forward.

On Tuesday, during Collins's first appearance before Congress since his nomination hearing in January, Moran again asked about the position.

"I've indicated ... in many conversations and certainly hearings in which VA staff are witnesses, that the return of an inspector general is a high priority for me. What's the plan?" Moran asked.

Collins said the department had asked the White House and welcomed the oversight.

"We've encouraged the inspector general to be named and look forward to that being in place," Collins said.

In response to a notice regarding Mason's nomination, Connecticut Sen. Richard Blumenthal, the committee's top Democrat, immediately took issue with the selection, saying she was "the wrong choice" for the job, given that the position is supposed to be independent and nonpartisan.

"This nomination is especially problematic because Ms. Mason has been point person in muzzling VA workers and directing them to sign non-disclosure agreements," Blumenthal said in a release Tuesday.

"Veterans deserve an inspector general who will conduct investigations free of interference and collusion from Collins and the Trump administration. Otherwise, we will be putting veterans at even greater risk of corruption and abuse of power," Blumenthal added.

Eight of the inspectors general who were fired in January filed a lawsuit in February alleging they were illegally fired based on a federal law that requires the president to provide Congress with 30 days' notice before dismissing an inspector general, including a concise, written explanation for the firing.

The inspectors general sought an emergency injunction that would return them to work, with back pay, but that request was denied, and the legal case continues. During a hearing March 27, Federal District Court Judge Ana Reyes said she was unlikely to reinstate the inspectors general even though the president may have broken the law in firing them.

"I do not see how I can reinstate the IGs even if I find that the statute is constitutional," Reyes said. "I think what we would be dealing with maybe would be either back pay, or something of the sort."

Government Executive magazine reported in March that as senior adviser, Mason told Veterans Benefits Administration employees that they could not have direct contact with the Office of General Counsel without her permission.

VBA employees are known to consult local and regional attorneys for legal advice and guidance on claims.

Mason is the wife of a retired Air Force officer. She is the author of a book on leadership and has worked as a motivational speaker. Her nomination will require Senate confirmation.

Related: VA Secretary Defends Staffing Cuts, Contract Cancellations in Heated Senate Hearing
The USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier lost another F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet on Tuesday -- the third since it deployed to the Middle East -- this time amid a landing incident that caused the jet to go overboard, defense officials confirmed to Military.com

The incident comes just more than a week after the Truman lost an F/A-18 jet and a connected tow tractor when the pair fell overboard while being towed around the carrier's hangar deck.

Officials said the most recent incident was caused by a failure in some part of the arresting equipment used to bring the jet to a halt on the carrier's flight deck, and both aviators ejected safely from the aircraft.

Read Next: VA Secretary Defends Staffing Cuts, Contract Cancellations in Heated Senate Hearing

The pair of sailors were recovered by a rescue helicopter and found to have minor injuries, the defense officials said.

Separately, one defense official confirmed to Military.com that the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels fired at the Truman carrier on Tuesday as well -- despite claims of a brokered ceasefire from the White House that began Monday.

"They've announced to us, at least, that they don't want to fight anymore," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office on Tuesday. "We will stop the bombings, and they have capitulated."

However, it was unclear whether the jet falling overboard was related to the incoming fire. It was also unclear if the arresting equipment failure was with the arresting wire that is designed to stop an aircraft during a carrier landing or with the hook on the fighter not catching on the wire.

In last week's incident, a U.S. official confirmed to Military.com that initial reports indicated the Truman made a hard turn to evade Houthi fire, which contributed to the fighter jet falling overboard. Under the Trump administration, more officials have been reluctant to speak on the record using their names, even in cases of standard day-to-day military events or incidents that would have been directly attributed in the past.

CNN was the first outlet to report the story of Tuesday's jet loss.

Military.com reached out to the Navy for comment on its sailors and equipment, but the service referred questions on the incident to U.S. Central Command, which oversees the operations in the region.

In December, the USS Gettysburg, a Navy cruiser, downed another F/A-18 fighter jet from the Truman in a friendly fire incident. That jet's two aviators were also forced to eject, and one suffered minor injuries.

The jets in the most recent incident and the friendly fire belonged to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11. The jet that rolled off the deck last week was from VFA 136.

An individual F/A-18 fighter jet costs between $60 million and $70 million, depending on the configuration.

To lose three fighter jets on a single deployment is incredibly unusual, but Truman's deployment, which began in September of last year, also featured a collision with another ship.

On Feb. 12, the Navy revealed the Truman had collided with a merchant vessel roughly half its size, the Besiktas-M, just before midnight local time while sailing near Port Said, Egypt, in the Mediterranean Sea.

The city, which sits at the northern opening to the Suez Canal, is an area of dense maritime traffic, with ships coming in and out of the canal, as well as others waiting to begin their transit.

As a result of the incident, the Navy fired the ship's commanding officer and ordered a port visit to Souda Bay, Crete, for repairs.

On Tuesday, officials in the Pentagon could not say when the Truman is set to return home.

In 2022, the USS Harry S. Truman also lost an F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet in the waters of the Mediterranean when the jet was blown overboard "due to unexpected heavy weather" as the ship was conducting an at-sea resupply.

Related: Military Refuses to Provide Details About Ongoing Bombing Campaign in Yemen
Firing Veterans Crisis Line employees would trigger notifications to Congress under a bill being introduced by a Democratic senator aiming to give those employees more protections against being terminated.

The bill comes after the Department of Veterans Affairs acknowledged in a letter to senators last month that 24 support employees at the suicide helpline were "erroneously" told they were being let go during mass Trump administration firings at the beginning of the year. The VA sent the letter on the mistaken termination notices after accusing Democrats of fearmongering about crisis line employees being fired.

Under the bill being introduced Wednesday by Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., the VA would have to notify Congress at least 48 hours before firing any Veterans Crisis Line employees and provide lawmakers with the justification for firing them.

Read Next: Another Fighter Jet Tumbles from Truman Carrier Deck into Red Sea

"Whether VA Secretary [Doug] Collins continues to weaken the Veterans Crisis Line program -- or follows through on his promise to fix his mistake of firing of Veterans Crisis Line staff -- the bottom line is this: Secretary Collins should transparently report VCL personnel and performance data to Congress," Duckworth, a retired National Guard lieutenant colonel who lost both her legs serving in Iraq, said in a statement. "The American people deserve to judge for themselves whether Secretary Collins is actually fulfilling his claims to restore VCL resources -- and Congress must be able to hold the Trump administration accountable if it fails to do so."

The bill is not likely to become law while Republicans control both chambers of Congress and the White House, but Democrats have been finding ways to use their legislative proposals to needle the GOP on veterans being hurt by the Trump administration's mass firings across the government.

For example, in a government funding fight earlier this year, Democrats secured a vote on an amendment from Duckworth that would have reinstated all veterans fired from the federal government, getting every Republican senator on record voting against the amendment.

The Trump administration devoted much of its first 100 days to shrinking the size of the federal government, with President Donald Trump empowering billionaire adviser Elon Musk and his so-called Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, to take a sledgehammer to government agencies.

Among the administration's first efforts was targeting workers who hadn't yet earned employment protections -- probationary employees who were within a year or two of starting work, being promoted or transferring.

At the VA, about 2,400 probationary employees were fired in two batches in February.

Shortly after the probationary firings started, reports emerged that the terminations included employees at the VCL, a key resource for veterans who may be considering suicide. In particular, Duckworth said she was aware of at least two support staff members being fired.

At the time, Collins accused Democrats of spreading "whoppers" and insisted that no one who answered the phone was fired -- without directly addressing whether support staff necessary to keep the hotline running were fired.

But in a letter to senators last month reviewed by Military.com, Collins admitted that 24 VCL support staff were indeed sent termination notices.

Those firings were later reversed, and all VCL employees have been reinstated at the same position they previously held, Collins added in the letter.

"Everything I do is in pursuit of ensuring veterans receive the care and services they deserve and instilling a lasting culture of caring, customer services and accountability at VA that focuses on always putting veterans first," Collins wrote in the letter. "Ensuring the VCL is always accessible 24/7 is one of the department's top priorities."

At a contentious Senate Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Tuesday, Duckworth pressed Collins on the issue, saying she was aware of at least one former supervisor at the VCL who has yet to be reinstated.

Collins agreed with Duckworth that support staff are as important to running the VCL as phone responders, saying "that's why we brought them back." Still, he continued to stress that no responders were fired.

"I will not accept the premise, when it was given, that people were not being answered on the call line when they came," Collins said. "That is not true."

In addition to putting new guardrails on firing VCL employees, Duckworth's bill would require the VA to submit a monthly report to Congress assessing the performance of the hotline, including the average time callers are on hold and the volume of unanswered calls.

The department would also have to submit a report to Congress breaking down -- by job category, probationary status and veterans status -- how many VCL employees there were on the day of Trump's inauguration, how many were fired in February and how many employees there are now.

The VCL bill is a part of a series of veterans legislation Duckworth is introducing this week that also includes a measure to strengthen union protections for VA employees.

The VA Employees Fairness Act was introduced in previous years by former Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, but its reintroduction by Duckworth comes as the Trump administration has been trying to weaken federal employee unions. The bill would expand collective bargaining rights for VA medical professionals who right now have some limitations on what they are allowed to negotiate over.

"This administration cannot continue to slash and burn the VA in the dark," Duckworth said in her statement. "As DOGE cuts continue, it's as urgent as ever that Congress empowers VA health care professionals with the same bargaining rights and protections as other federal employees so they can speak out freely against any problems or challenges they're enduring at this critical time for the VA."

Veterans and service members experiencing a mental health emergency can call the Veteran Crisis Line, 988 and press 1. Help also is available by text, 838255, and via chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net.

Related: VA Crisis Line Employees Among Those Fired Amid Federal Workforce Purge
In 1921, the United Kingdom's foreign secretary, Earl Curzon of Kedleston, said of George Washington:

... he was a great Englishman, one of the greatest Englishmen who ever lived; because though he fought us and vanquished us, he was fighting for ideals and principles which were as sacred to us as they were to the American people.  [His] merits were recognized by Englishmen even in his lifetime. 

So military history buffs in London were probably perplexed to see the statue of George Washington, a gift presented by the United States to the United Kingdom more than a century ago, being taken down by yellow-vested workers.

At first glance, it would be easy to think its the latest shot fired toward a presidential administration that has rejected much of the world order that was in place when it took office. The truth, however, is that its just good housekeeping. Washingtons statue is undergoing some much-needed restoration work for the first time ever and will be back in place in just a few short weeks.

Related: Why George Washington's Statue in London Doesn't Touch British Soil

The London statue was removed from its spot outside the National Gallery on May 6, 2025, to undergo a full restoration process. The restoration is being done by the Virginia-based nonprofit Friends of the Washington Statue, whose mission is to raise funds to restore and repair the famous Washington Statue in Trafalgar Square, provide a new high-quality pedestal and educate people about the unique gift and the special relationship between the United States and United Kingdom.

The long and short of it is that the George Washington Statue has gone to the restoration shop for much needed full restoration work, the first time in its 100-plus years, John Gerber, president of Friends of the Washington Statue, told Military.com. It will be returned to its Trafalgar location in early June in time for its rededication there on June 18, 2025.

Representatives of the nonprofit added theres not currently much more to say about the restoration, but will have full updates available as the rededication date draws closer.

The George Washington statue sits outside the National Gallery in Londons Trafalgar Square. Its one of six statues of U.S. presidents in the city. The first was a statue of Abraham Lincoln that was unveiled in 1920 to commemorate a century of peace between the United States and the United Kingdom. Lincolns statue stands opposite the Houses of Parliament and is a replica of one by Augustus Saint-Gaudens in Chicagos Lincoln Park.

Not to be outdone, the Commonwealth of Virginia presented Washingtons statue to Britain in 1921. Its a replica of a 1794 original by Jean-Antoine Houdon and commissioned by Thomas Jefferson that now sits in the Virginia State Capitol in Richmond. The original statue was made using a plaster cast of Washingtons face.

The statue of George Washington outside the National Gallery in London. (Elliott Brown)

In the 1850s, six copies were made and sent to the Virginia Military Institute; the North Carolina State Capitol; the South Carolina State House; Lafayette Park in St. Louis; Miami University in Oxford, Ohio; and New York City Hall. In 1910, more castings were made, and some of these found their way outside the United States. One was gifted to the people of France, one can still be found in Lima, Peru, and, of course, Londons Trafalgar Square.

Washingtons statue features the former president holding 13 fasces, a bundle of rods with an ax blade that symbolizes the holders power. These represent the original 13 colonies turned states. Legend has it that Washington once said he would never again step foot on British soil, so the statue allegedly sits on soil imported from Virginia to honor the commander in chiefs wishes.

To learn more about the history of the statue, its restoration, the current state of the statue or to stay updated on the rededication events, visit WashingtonStatue.org

Want to Learn More About Military Life?

Whether you're thinking of joining the military, looking for post-military careers or keeping up with military life and benefits, Military.com has you covered. Subscribe to Military.com to have military news, updates and resources delivered directly to your inbox.
KEWEENAW COUNTY, MI  May is peak waterfall viewing season in Michigans northernmost peninsula.

Visit Keweenaw has a list of five free-flowing waterfalls that are easy to access and offer big views for sight seekers. These are among about two dozen waterfalls on the Keweenaw Peninsula.

Hungarian Falls is an easily accessible waterfall in Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula. Nathan Miller | Visit Keweenaw

The Keweenaw becomes a roaring showcase of waterpower as spring snowmelt rushes back to Lake Superior from high peaks, the visitors bureau said in a news release. Feel the cool mist and thunder of crashing falls throughout the Copper Country.

Hungarian Falls is an easily accessible waterfall in Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula. Visit Keweenaw

Here are the five waterfalls with easy access and big views:

Hungarian Falls (Hubbell): View this multi-tiered cascade near Hubbell, where Dover Creek makes its way to Torch Lake. Its a dramatic drop and a scenic hike.

Jacobs Falls (Eagle River): This picturesque waterfall tumbles beside the scenic M-26 roadway between Eagle River to Eagle Harbor.

Silver River Falls (Eagle Harbor): With its recently restored bridge and historical landmark, the Silver River Falls are accessed via a parking lot at the bridge on M-26. The falls are a short walk from the bridge; there are signs to direct you.

Manganese Falls (Copper Harbor): Dropping 45 feet from the top of a rocky gorge, this waterfall is tucked into a forested area of Copper Harbor off Manganese Road. Its spring surge is wild to witness with the narrow, steep falls creating an intense rush.

Fanny Hooe Creek Falls (Copper Harbor): Lake Fanny Hooe feeds this creek and it makes a big burst through (Copper Harbor): Lake Fanny Hooe feeds this creek and it makes a big burst through Astor Shipwreck Park across from Fort Wilkins Historic State Park as the water rushes toward Lake Superior. At this set of heavy-hitting falls  you can enjoy crisp views of the Copper Harbor Lighthouse.

Silver Falls is an easily accessible waterfall in Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula. Visit Keweenaw

With a steady-holding snow base in shady sections of the woods, theres still plenty of snowmelt to fuel the Keweenaws waterfalls, the visitors bureau said.

Prepare for warm and cold weather during your spring waterfall hunting adventure and temperatures often fluctuate throughout the day.

For even more waterfalls, check out Visit Keweenaws 2-day waterfall tour here.
The national Barricade Go Topless Day Jeep event is coming to Cadillac for the first time. The worldwide charity event brought Jeep enthusiasts together around the globe for nearly 500 events last year. (Photo Courtesy of Tim Swisher) Photo Courtesy of Tim Swisher

CADILLAC, MI -- Jeepers have a new Michigan spot to gather for the national Go Topless Day event. For the first time Cadillac is hosting the annual charity meet-up.

Go Topless Day, founded by after-market Jeep part company Barricade, spans the globe across six countries and all 50 U.S. states. Last year, the branded event popped up 499 celebrations, according to Barricade.

This year one more will be added to the roster at the Wexford County Airport in Cadillac.

From 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday, May 17 Jeepers can come by to enjoy food, drinks and friendly competition to show off their rides. Entry fee is $10 per vehicle.

My Jeep is my therapy, event organizer Jen Swisher said. When the top is off I blare the music and the wind is in my hair and I drive off.

Last year Swisher and her husband, Tim, organized a Go Topless day in Thompsonville that brought together about 100 Jeepers, she said.

This years event is growing massively everyday, Swisher said with engagement on Facebook ballooning to nearly 700 interested Jeepers.

The event will feature hot dogs from the food truck Mobile Munchies and drinks served by the Cadillac High School cheer team as a fundraiser for the teams upcoming competition.

The entry fees will benefit this years charity, youth scholarships for the Experimental Aircraft Association, which hosts camps, training programs and supports post-secondary institutions for students with aspirations of becoming innovators, aviators and engineers.

Of course it wouldnt be a Jeep gathering without showing off the customizable details on the suspension, lift and color accents. The Jeep with the most impressive flare will take home the golden Show and Shine trophy.

In addition to hosting the event, the Swishers are also opening their own after-market custom garage for Jeepers  Swishers Jeeps. Theyll be showing off Jens silver Jeep with teal accents.

RELATED: Northern Michigans Jeep tour takes you on a scenic spring route with a big prize at the end

Among the presenting sponsors is Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau and Cadillac Area Festivals & Events, which has fully embraced mud season with the Caddy Bears Spring Jeep Tour.

The Go Topless event is one of the coveted sticker stops on the CVBs ORV and Jeep passport. Riders must collect as many stickers as possible before May 21.

One lucky rider will win the $500 grand prize on Friday, May 23 during the prize drawing at the Tin Shed Co. in Mesick.

Find passport details and participating stops with promotion rules at cadillacmichigan.com/jeeptour, and real-time updates on all Cadillacs ORV and Jeep events on Facebook.
By JON GAMBRELL Associated Press

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  An F/A-18 fighter jet landing on the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier in the Red Sea went overboard, forcing its two pilots to eject, a defense official told The Associated Press on Wednesday. The incident happened Tuesday, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity as they did not have permission to speak publicly about the incident. The two pilots on board were later rescued by a helicopter and suffered minor injuries in the incident. The crew on board the Truman suffered no injuries in the incident, which appeared to have come from an issue with the arrestment device that catches aircraft on landing.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  An F/A-18 fighter jet landing on the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier in the Red Sea went overboard, forcing its two pilots to eject, a defense official told The Associated Press on Wednesday.

The incident Tuesday marks the latest mishap to mar the deployment of the Truman, which has been essential in the airstrike campaign by the United States against Yemens Houthi rebels.

On Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump and Omans foreign minister both said that a ceasefire had been reached with the Houthis, who would no longer target ships in the Red Sea corridor  something not immediately acknowledged by the rebels.

Meanwhile, the Houthis continue to assess the damage after daytime Israeli airstrikes targeted Yemens rebel-held capital of Sanaa.

Landing goes wrong on carrier

The F/A-18 Super Hornet landed on the Truman after a flight, but the arrestment failed, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they werent authorized to speak publicly about the incident now under investigation.

Arrestment refers to the hook system used by aircraft landing on carriers, which catches steel wire ropes on the flight deck. It remains unclear what part of the system failed.

The two pilots on board were later rescued by a helicopter and suffered minor injuries in the incident, the official added. No one on the flight deck was hurt.

CNN first reported on the incident.

Tuesdays incident was the latest to see the Navy lose an F/A-18, which cost about $60 million. In April, another F/A-18 fighter jet slipped off the hangar deck of the Truman and fell into the Red Sea. The crew members who were in the pilot seat of the Super Hornet and on the small towing tractor both jumped away.

In December, the guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg mistakenly shot down an F/A-18 after ships earlier shot down multiple Houthi drones and an anti-ship cruise missile launched by the rebels. Both aviators in that incident also survived.

And in February, the Truman collided with a merchant vessel near Port Said, Egypt.

The Truman, based out of Norfolk, Virginia, has seen its deployment extended multiple times amid the Houthi airstrike campaign. It had been joined recently by the USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier operating out of the Arabian Sea.

Rebels survey Sanaas devastated airport

The Israeli attack on Tuesday that targeted Sanaa International Airport devastated the airfield. Khaled al-Shaif, the head of the airport, told the Houthis al-Masirah satellite news channel that the Israeli strike destroyed the airports terminal and left craters in its runway.

At least six passenger planes were struck, including three belonging to Yemenia Airways, the countrys flag-carrying airline, he said. That leaves the airline with only one functional aircraft, which was spared only because it had left earlier in the day on a flight to Amman, Jordan. He put overall damage there at $500 million.

With the damage, the airport was now out of service, al-Shaif said.

Houthi attacks on shipping

The Houthis had been waging persistent missile and drone attacks against commercial and military ships in the region in what the groups leadership has described as an effort to end Israels offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

From November 2023 until January 2025, the Houthis targeted more than 100 merchant vessels with missiles and drones, sinking two of them and killing four sailors. That has greatly reduced the flow of trade through the Red Sea corridor, which typically sees $1 trillion of goods move through it annually.

The Houthis paused attacks in a self-imposed ceasefire until the U.S. launched a broad assault against the rebels in mid-March.
DEARBORN, MI  Four people, including a Ford employee, have been charged in a large-scale operation involving stolen car parts.

The Dearborn Police Department arrested four men on Tuesday following an investigation that began in conjunction with Ford Motor Company Global Security months ago.

Search warrants were executed at homes in Dearborn and Canton and at two Detroit businesses.

Police say a Ford employee was responsible for the theft of new vehicle parts and that he was providing them to a Detroit business to be offered for sale.

These arrests were made possible through the diligent and sophisticated work of our investigative units and with the help and cooperation of the Ford Motor Company Global Security, said Dearborn Police Chief Issa Shahin.

Such criminal plots will not be tolerated in Dearborn, and we will employ all resources to bring them down.

The identities of the male adults are being held pending official charges from the Wayne County Prosecutors Office.
A 2022 Ford Maverick pick-up truck sits on display. Ford says it will increase the price of Maverick trucks in the coming weeks thank to tariffs. (Mike Mulholland | MLive.com) Mike Mulholland | MLive.com

DETROIT -- Ford Motor Company says it is increasing the price of three of its most popular vehicles thanks to tariffs instituted by President Donald Trump. According to Reuters, the automaker informed dealerships this week that prices for the Mustang Mach-E electric SUV, Maverick pickup and Bronco Sport will increase in the coming weeks.

While an exact figure wasnt revealed, Ford told dealerships the increase may be as high as $2,000 depending on the model. All three of the vehicles involved are assembled in Mexico.

Related story: Tariffs to add $2K-$15K to cost of making vehicles, study finds

Currently, a 25% tariff is added to imported passenger vehicles and light trucks. Last week, Trump signed an executive order that relaxes a portion of the tariff for auto parts and automobiles, but not by enough to completely offset the added costs for automakers.

Ford has previously said it expects the tariffs to add roughly $2.5 billion to its costs for the year. A Ford spokesperson told Reuters that the price increases are a combination of mid-year pricing actions combined with some tariffs we are facing. We have not passed on the full cost of tariffs to our customers.

An exact date for when Ford expects prices to increase wasnt given, but the spokesperson said the increase impacts vehicles produced after May 2. That gives dealerships a window of late June for when those vehicles will hit lots.

Related story: These Ford vehicles made in Michigan are no longer being sent to China thanks to tariffs

Although the prices of those vehicles are going up, Ford is attempting to offset some of the cost through an ongoing promotion. Through July 4, Ford is offering employee pricing on certain qualified vehicles, including the three vehicles assembled in Mexico. However, inventory of the Mustang Mach-E electric SUV may be limited.

Ford is one of the first automakers in the U.S. to confirm prices increases in the face of the tariffs. However, it is not the only company to confirm the tariffs will hurt the companys bottom line. Last week, General Motors lowered 2025 profit projections after revealing the tariffs could cost the company $5 billion this year.
The northward monarch butterfly migration took weeks of flapping wings and several generations to reach the Great Lakes region.

Monarch butterflies winter over in Mexico and then make their way north to their breeding grounds, which include Michigan.

Journey North uses volunteer-submitted data to track the migration. On Monday, the states first sighting was recorded in Flat Rock, south of Detroit. So far, thats the only Michigan sighting on the map. Find the map here.

RELATED: 8 unforgettable trees to see among 20,000 on MSUs campus

Monarchs are usually seen in Michigan from late spring to early fall.

The monarch is the only butterfly known to make a two-way migration, like birds  but with key differences, according to the U.S. Forest Service. Monarchs fly as far as 3,000 miles to reach their winter homes in Mexico and California, where they hibernate. Upon waking, monarchs lay eggs; those eggs then begin the journey north. While the southward journey is carried out by one generation, it takes three to four generations to reach their summer homes.

RELATED: Hummingbirds will come to your yard for these plants

Monarchs tend to arrive as milkweed pops up, according to Journey North. The plant is the only one on which monarchs lay their eggs and the only source of food for baby caterpillars, according to the World Wildlife Fund.

Monarchs are listed as a threatened species in the U.S. However, the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources has categorized them as endangered. Their population has declined by as much as 90% in recent years, primarily due to habitat loss (the loss of milkweed), according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

RELATED: Waterfalls roar amid spring snowmelt in Michigans northernmost peninsula

The decline has sparked conservation efforts, including planting milkweed.

Despite the small size of monarch butterflies and other insects, they play a very large role in human lives, according to the DNR. Insects travel to flowering plants, drinking nectar and transporting pollen. This results in a pollination service that is responsible for one-third of the worlds food source.
EAST LANSING, MI  A person wanted for an assault that allegedly occurred during Michigan States graduation ceremony has been arrested.

The MSU Department of Police and Public Safety had been seeking community help to identify the person of interest. The alleged assault occurred during commencements at the Breslin Center on May 4.

Police did not identify the suspect by name.

MSU celebrated more than 10,000 graduates during commencement ceremonies across baccalaureate, masters, doctoral and professional programs.

Commencement is an opportunity to celebrate our students achievements and reflect on the unique journeys that theyve each taken to reach this moment, said MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D. I am proud to salute the class of 2025 and look forward to seeing how they enrich their communities and the world around them.

This semester, the 7,331 bachelors degree candidates represent 79 of Michigans counties, all 50 states and 57 countries.

Among those baccalaureate degrees are 850 members of the Honors College, 128 student-athletes and 39 veterans. This years graduating class ranges in age from 19 to 56 years old.

This graduating class also had 275 graduates earning the highest scholastic average one can achieve  a 4.0 GPA.
OAKLAND COUNTY, MI  Quick thinking by a Michigan police officer likely saved the life of a newborn fawn in Oakland County.

The incident occurred after officer Frank Wright of the White Lake Township Police Department responded to Highland Road at 10:30 p.m. on Tuesday.

Upon his arrival, he found that a pregnant doe was hit by a vehicle and was about to give birth. As the mother died, Wright was able to remove the fawn, warm it up, and get it breathing.

He then brought it to the station where officers continued to care for it by giving it a bed and some milk. The fawn was later named Little Baby Meijer since it was born near one of the Grand Rapids-based retailers.

The fawn will be taken in by a wildlife rehabilitation center, police said.

Sometimes in this job you see and do things you have never done before, a statement said. We can now mark deer birthing and deer neonatal care off the list. Best of luck with your life Baby Meijer!

Officers posted several photos of the fawn to Facebook. Many residents were leaving comments thanking them for their efforts to save the fawn.
People watch the sunrise at a beach in Sanur near Denpasar, on Indonesia resort island of Bali on May 1, 2025. (Photo by SONNY TUMBELAKA / AFP) (Photo by SONNY TUMBELAKA/AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images

WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Department of State is warning travelers visiting Indonesia not to visit certain parts of the country for any reason. Indonesia as a whole was listed under a level 2 advisory issued last week by the agency, meaning visitors should use extra caution during their trip.

However, a pair of regions in the country are labeled as do not travel destinations. Citing civil unrest, the provinces of Central Papua (Papua Tengah) and Highland Papua (Papua Pegunungan) should not be visited by Americans visiting Indonesia.

The advisory claims the do not travel regions are particularly dangerous because violent demonstrations and conflict could result in injury or death to U.S. citizens. Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Armed separatists may kidnap foreign nationals.

In general, the level 2 advisory warns of possible terrorist activity and natural disasters as reason to be extra cautious.

Terrorists continue plotting possible attacks in Indonesia. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting police stations, places of worship, hotels, bars, nightclubs, markets/shopping malls, and restaurants, reads part of the advisory.

While natural disasters are unpredictable, the State Department warns that should an event occur, it could disrupt transportation, infrastructure, sanitation, and the availability of health services.

Should you visit Indonesia, the State Department suggests that you:
The Taylor Police Department on April 28, 2025 became the second police agency in Michigan to partner with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement through a 287g agreement. This file photo shows an ICE deportation officer with the New York City field office on Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2024, (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, File) AP

TAYLOR, MI - After a Michigan police agency entered a controversial U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agreement, the police chief has insisted it will change absolutely nothing in our department.

Taylor Police Department, in southwest metro Detroit, became the second law enforcement agency in the state to join the 287g program and the first to adopt a task force agreement, a model that enables local police to stop people and make arrests solely for immigration violations.

But Taylor Police Chief John Blair says the agreement will not alter a single thing within the department. Rather, he says under normal procedure, if officers identify anyone committing a crime as an undocumented immigrant, they will contact ICE.

We will do nothing other than that for our enforcement activities, he said. We will not kick in doors, we will not go to workplaces, we will not go to schools searching for illegal immigrants.

Broadly, the 287g program allows local police  normally prohibited from doing federal immigration enforcement  to partner with ICE. But its faced criticism for instilling fear, eroding trust, diverting local resources and turning police into a deportation army.

Christine Sauve, policy, engagement and communications manager for the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center, called it a dark day for Michigan when the Taylor Police Department formally entered the 287g agreement on April 28.

We are very concerned, she said. Its a marked change. I think it sends us back at least 20 years in terms of the concept of community policing. It indicates a change in how this community, Taylor, is viewing immigrant residents.

Related: Jackson County sheriff seeks authority to hold immigrants on ICE warrants

The 287g program has grown rapidly under President Donald Trumps effort to deport vast numbers of undocumented immigrants.

In January, 60 police agencies were participating in the program, but that number has now ballooned to 523 agencies with another 113 pending applications.

In Michigan, the Jackson County Sheriffs Office was the first to enter the 287g program when it adopted a warrant service officer model last month. The Berrien County Sheriffs Office joined the program on May 6. And two other law enforcement agencies have applied.

Blair, who views the agreement as an extension of existing partnerships with federal agencies, said ICE recently called him about joining the program.

I had no idea this was new and no idea that we were the first department they had contacted, he said. We work with them so frequently that it was natural for them to reach out to us.

The 287g program operates under three models: warrant service officer, jail enforcement model and task enforcement model.

The first two largely lean on enforcement through jails and state prisons while the task force model allows local police officers who receive federal training to perform certain functions of an immigration officer.

The task force model, which has been the most controversial arm of the program, was recently revived by the Trump administration. It had previously been shut down for 13 years because of its documented history of racial profiling.

In 2011, the U.S. Department of Justice concluded one Arizona sheriffs office was conducting sweeps in Latino neighborhoods and a year later, a North Carolina sheriffs office was found violating civil rights by unlawfully detaining Latinos.

Related: Bay, Saginaw sheriffs not interested in ICE asking them for enforcement help

Although the task force model does expand local polices authority, according to Jonathan Weinberg, an immigration and citizenship law expert from Wayne State University Law School, it doesnt always have to be deployed.

The effect of entering into a task force agreement is more about what it gives the local law enforcement agency power to do and less necessarily about what their actual plans are, he said.

For the Taylor Police Department, Blair emphasized that no policies or procedures will change under the agreement.

The police department already partners with federal agencies for large events, major crimes and active shooter training, according to Blair, so it made no sense to refuse 40 hours of free immigration training so our officers have the legal information to perform their jobs professionally.

Blair also said his department also works with ICE monthly because of their proximity to Detroit and the Detroit Metro Airport. So far this year, Taylor Police has contacted immigration officials four times, according to rough data provided by the police chief. Last year, one case was not reported to ICE because the case involved a victim who was an undocumented immigrant.

Im stunned that signing an agreement to enforce the law as we have for 34 years is controversial, Blair said in an email to MLive. Were not hunting anyone.

The Trump administration has been encouraging local police to join the 287g program to support its effort to deport one million people a year  a number that a number that dwarfs more than 400,000 under President Barack Obama.

ICE, which has 6,000 deportation agents, is increasingly leaning on these partnerships to meet reported arrest quotas.

The small number of immigrants who commit crimes is not large enough to achieve that goal of mass deportation. So, theyre looking for other ways to widen that net to include more people in the detention and deportation process, said Sauve. Enlisting local police is one way of achieving their goals.

Related: Grand Rapids police not in the business of immigration enforcement, chief says

Despite that, some Michigan police agencies have made it clear that immigration enforcement is not their job. Others have also turned down requests to sign 287g agreements.

After ICE called Saginaw County Sheriff William Federspiel in April, he told MLive his office doesnt have the spare resources to join the program. And Bay County Sheriff Troy Cunningham said it would be a huge burden to add immigration enforcement to deputies list of duties.

Our goal is to reduce violent people on the streets. Were not targeting any individuals; we target crimes, Cunningham said last month.
ANN ARBOR, MI  A seven-story condo development is now approved to replace Ann Arbors Braun Court.

Emotions were high as the citys Planning Commission voted unanimously Tuesday night, May 6, to approve plans from Wickfield Properties to tear down the popular commercial courtyard in Kerrytown and replace it with a nearly 90,000-square-foot residential building.
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - Police used a battering ram to smash in the door of a home with pro-Palestine activists as part of the probe into a series of vandalism attacks on people with ties to the University of Michigan.

Two weeks later, a group of activists for the same cause walked free after the state dropped criminal charges against them tied to protests at the school.

One cause. Two different approaches by law enforcement.

Experts in law enforcement and political dissent say it is all part of the normal push and pull between officials and protesters.

Protest and protest policing are largely co-evolutionary with each responding to the other, said Christian Davenport, a professor of political science, public policy and sociology at University of Michigan.

The April 23 raid was one of five search warrants executed at the behest of Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. Her office pointed to an ongoing investigation into a dozen vandalisms - all connected with pro-Palestine protesting - that targeted homes of University of Michigan officials and area businesses.

Less than two weeks later, Nessels office dropped charges against seven other protesters charged with felonies in connection to campus demonstrations.

Law enforcement uses a sliding scale in how they interact with protesters, said Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson. The goal is to typically go one level higher than the current level of aggression in order to contain protests, he said.

The obligation of de-escalation is always the primary priority of law enforcement, Swanson said. Meet aggression with aggression and slide down as that aggression has been contained.

Demonstrators gather to protest UM President Santa Onos Statement regarding Mideast violence outside the University of Michigan Presidents House in Ann Arbor on Friday, Oct. 13, 2023. Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com

Nearly 2 years of push and pull

Pro-Palestine demonstrators first began protesting outside University of Michigan President Santa Onos house Oct. 13, 2023.

This was just six days after Hamas attacked Israel, killing about 1,200 mostly civilian people and taking roughly 250 hostages. Gazas Health Ministry says Israels subsequent offensive has killed more than 50,000 Palestinians in Gaza, according to the Associated Press.

Since then, protesters and officials have clashed at a steady rate, meeting rallies with a smattering of arrests and charges.

At least 50 people have been arrested in connection with pro-Palestine protesting at the Ann Arbor university since 2023. Nine were charged with felonies. All charges have since been dropped.

The arrest number is largely driven by the 41 arrested for forcing their way into university President Santa Onos office for a sit in in November 2023.

Some responses have been explicitly linked, like the university altering its free speech policy to expand its ban on disruptions to university operations after protesters interrupted a 2024 Honors Convocation.

Related: Trump, DEI cuts & Michigan football: 5 takeaways from Santa Onos time at University of Michigan

Officials have mostly responded in two ways: a handful of on-scene arrests and criminal charges and changes to policy. But that changed on April 23 with the Nessel-authorized raid on five homes in Ypsilanti, Ann Arbor and Canton.

The raids were part of an investigation into 12 vandalisms that occurred at the homes of Ono, Provost Laurie McCauley and Regent Jordan Acker, as well as Ackers Southfield law firm and a handful of southeast Michigan businesses.

Nessels office did not explicitly link the vandalism to the TAHRIR Coalition, the primary pro-Palestine organization in Ann Arbor. However, members of the coalition were residents at some of the homes, the group confirmed.

A coalition representative said he and others were unaware of many of the incidents cited by officials.

Even though theyre totally separate, theyre being made into sort of one combined assault on pro-Palestine activists at the University of Michigan, said representative Nathan Kim.

Read More: FBI raids follow string of pro-Palestinian incidents around Ann Arbor

Vandalism happens all the time, Kim said, and asserted these cases are being taken more seriously because Nessel perceives them to be connected to other pro-Palestine protest activity. The goal is to target pro-Palestine protesters as a whole, not just individual vandalism cases, he said.

The attorney generals office has said its investigation is related to multijurisdictional acts of vandalism.

But we view this as sort of a euphemism for whats really happening  which is that the Attorney General is bringing in even the FBI, I think, to target protesters, Kim said. Its unclear to us, even.

University of Michigan Police continue to dismantle the encampment after the Pro-Palestinian student protesters were cleared from the encampment in the University of Michigan Diag in Ann Arbor on Tuesday, May 21, 2024. Rebecca Villagracia | MLive.com

How protesters, police interact

Assuming protesters or police are moving in lockstep is to misunderstand the situation, said Davenport. Neither political movements nor police are uniform, and a single protest is a complex scenario with a multitude of protests with distinct actors and actions, the professor said.

Both sides also mistakenly view each other the same way, he said. Nobody is likely acting uniformly or coherently, especially when policing comes from a tier of agencies that may have overlapping mandates, Davenport said.

Peaceful and non-peaceful protests can be run by the same or different people, as well as peaceful and non-peaceful policing of protests, Davenport said.

The pro-Palestine movement in the Ann Arbor area is not orchestrated by any one organization, although notable organizations include the TAHRIR Coalition and Students Allied for Freedom and Equality.

Read More: Tahrir Coalition: What to know about University of Michigan pro-Palestine group

Despite this, authorities will often increase forceful tactics to match the level of what is perceived as the most extreme faction of a movement, Davenport said.

Targeting troublemakers can be a way to ensure others can protest peacefully, Swanson said.

If it crosses a line of assault or destruction of property or theft, thats where you try to  if its just isolated  take care of that small group, extract them out and let the rest protest in peace, Swanson said. Because most people want to protest in peace.

Swanson caught the public eye in 2020 by taking off riot gear and joining Black Lives Matter protesters during a Flint-area march. He is currently running for Michigan governor.

Escalation can lead to more escalation, he said, regardless of which side is applying the pressure. Its common for police to attempt to isolate and handle what appear to be a more extreme faction of a group of political dissenters, he said.

Developing relationships between protesters and authorities is key to maintaining peace, he said.

Peaceful protest is part of our countrys fabric, Swanson said. And as long as people are kept safe, then their message can be displayed.

Kim said he believes the raids set a very, very serious precedent for how law enforcement and the state responds to protests and political dissent in general.

Ultimately, Kim said the TAHRIR Coalition sees the universitys Zionist regents as the main drivers of crackdowns on protesters. The group will continue to try persuading the university to divest from Israel.

(The regents are) the ones that are making this happen, Kim said. And that was in place long before Trump took office.

If you would like more reporting like this delivered free to your inbox, click here and signup for our weekly newsletter: Michigan Schools.

Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter.
LIMA TWP., MI  A fire broke out Tuesday afternoon and destroyed a manufactured home.

Fire crews were called at 3:20 p.m. Tuesday, May 7, to the property on Jackson Road, west of Parker Road, in Lima Township for a reported structure fire, Chelsea Area Fire Authority Fire Chief Robert Arbini said.
PITTSFIELD TWP., MI  Voters in Pittsfield Township approved two tax proposals for public safety and parks.

Voters in the township approved a ballot proposal to continue funding township police, fire and support personnel services through millage funds. The millage received 2,982 yes votes and 2,651 no votes on Tuesday, May 6.

RELATED: Voters to decide on increased public safety, parks taxes in Pittsfield Township

The public safety millage will fund existing public safety services. It will also fund fire apparatuses, public safety equipment, facility repairs and renovations, and training.

The townships public safety millage provides more than 45% of the Department of Public Safetys budget, according to an informational webpage on the millage proposals.

Voters approved a property tax levy of 3.95 mills for 10 years beginning in winter 2026. It is a 1-mill increase over the current rate. It is expected to raise more than $11.3 million in its first year.

A Pittsfield Township resident who owns a $200,000 home will pay about $395 a year for the millage.

Voters also approved a millage that will fund park operations, maintenance and development of township recreational facilities and pathways.

The millage received 3,424 votes in favor with 2,213 of votes against.

Future projects include developing Grewal Park, which is under construction at Oak Valley Drive and Waters Road, and establishing Seyfried Park, on South Maple Road just south of Ann Arbor-Saline Road.

The millage also funds natural area management, including invasive species control.

Voters approved a property tax levy of up to 0.6 mills for 10 years beginning in winter 2026. The tax replaces the current 0.4697-mill tax. It is expected to raise more than $1.6 million in its first year.

A Pittsfield Township resident who owns a $200,000 home will pay about $60 a year for the millage.

Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter.
GENESEE COUNTY, MI -- Polls will close at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6, in Genesee County and all other voting locations in the state of Michigan.

Here are the unofficial results for the 2025 May election races and issues on ballots in Genesee County.

Special Flint City Council race

Flint Council member Ward 3 (Partial term ending Nov. 18, 2026) (4 of 4 precincts reporting)

Rich Jones: 21

LaShawn Johnson: 162

Beverly Biggs-Leavy: 165

A.C. Dumas: 165

Municipal proposals

City of Burton police operating millage (8 of 8 precincts reporting)

Yes: 2,176

No: 797

Montrose Township emergency vehicle millage (2 of 2 precincts reporting)

Yes: 348

No: 427

School district proposals

Bentley Community Schools building and site bond proposal (1 of 1 precinct reporting)

Yes: 517

No: 361

Davison Community Schools sinking fund millage proposal (Genesee County portion only) (15 of 15 precincts reporting)

Yes: 2,436

No: 2,768

Grand Blanc Community Schools building and site sinking fund renewal proposal (13 of 13 precincts reporting)

Yes: 4,733

No: 2,621

Kearsley Community School District operating millage proposal (11 of 11 precincts reporting)

Yes: 1,159

No: 661

Montrose Community Schools operating millage renewal proposal (Genesee County portion only) (3 of 3 precincts reporting)

Yes: 508

No: 431
The Mackinac Center for Public Policy is suing Flint Community Schools for failing to adhere to Michigans Freedom of Information Act. (Jake May | MLive.com)

FLINT, MI  The Mackinac Center for Public Policy is suing Flint Community Schools for failing to adhere to Michigans Freedom of Information Act.

The nonprofit research and education institute alleges that FCS failed to respond to a FOIA request for travel and expense records for administrators and staff that was filed on Feb. 17.
Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley (left) listens as Police Chief Terence Green speaks during a news conference in this MLive file photo. Ron Fonger | The Flint Journal

(This story has been updated to correct a spelling.)

FLINT, MI  A political activist who helped lead a demonstration outside the home of Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley has been arrested and jailed for disturbing the peace.

Flint Police Department spokesman Detective Tyrone L. Booth told MLive-The Flint Journal on Wednesday, May 7, that the charge against Jedidiah Brown is linked to the demonstration two days earlier on Begole Street.

Protestors wheeled a white casket on the sidewalk outside the home, and Brown spoke on a bullhorn during the protest.

Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson said Brown was booked into the county jail at 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6, on a charge of disturbing the peace.

Booth didnt immediately elaborate on the charge, but a city ordinance makes it a misdemeanor to breach or disturb the peace by loud or aggressive conduct.

As this is an ongoing investigation, specific details are currently limited, Booth said in an email to The Journal. I will share any updates as they become available. It is crucial for individuals involved in activities such as the protest that took place on Monday to be aware of and adhere to the laws and procedures governing such events.

Tuesdays arrest came after Police Chief Terence Green warned in a statement that day an investigation was underway and that he considered the demonstration a direct threat to the safety of the Neeley family.

While the Flint Police Department is committed to upholding the rights of individuals to peacefully assemble and express their views, actions that involve intimidating, threatening, or endangering private residences  particularly at the homes of public officials  are unacceptable and will not be tolerated, Green said.

Brown said in a video posted on his Facebook page and YouTube channel that the casket brought to home of the mayor and state Rep. Cynthia Neeley was designed to send a specific message.

The casket, for the record, is not to intimidate or to incite, Brown said. Its specifically to inspire ... Were cancelling the funeral of Flint.

Brown used a bullhorn at the protest to amplify his voice, which was heard by a few dozen people who appeared on video recordings of the demonstration.

The white casket was topped with a sign that read, Until you do right by Flint everything you touch will crumble.

Browns arrest was at least the second time Flint police have interacted with Brown, a Texas activist, who has been in Flint campaigning for Beverly Biggs-Leavy, a candidate for Flint City Council in Tuesdays special election.

The election has the potential to change the balance of power on the council, which has been deadlocked 4-4 over several issues since the death of former Councilman Quincy Murphy in late September.

According to unofficial results, candidates Biggs Leavy and A.C. Dumas each received 165 votes in Tuesdays election, winning the right to compete in a special general election in August to complete Murphys term.

Tuesdays arrest of Brown came eight days after Green personally escorted him out of City Hall during an April 28 City Council meeting after warning him not to speak while the meeting had been paused because the council lacked a quorum.

Brown sued Green, other city officials, and two members of the City Council in federal court the following day, claiming his civil rights were violated.

While outside the Neeley family home on Monday, Brown urged voters to support Biggs-Leavy and spoke on multiple grievances with the Neeley administration, including the water crisis settlement, police response times, and dysfunction in city government.

He led protesters in chants and urged residents to stand up against what he described as tyranny and dictatorship.

In his statement on Tuesday, Green called Mondays demonstration a direct threat to the safety and well-being of Mayor Neeley, his family, and residents at large.

We have received multiple complaints regarding the individual who led this protest, as well as concerns stemming from previous incidents that have created unsafe situations within our city, Greens statement reads.

The department is actively investigating this incident and any related activities to ensure the safety of all residents. We urge community members to report any information related to this event or similar occurrences to the Flint Police Department.

The Journal could not immediately reach Brown for comment.

A city spokeswoman declined to clarify who Green referred to as the individual who led this protest.

His lawsuit alleges he was subjected to unnecessary and aggressive physical contact by police during his removal from City Hall last week.

It alleges infringement on Browns freedom of speech and access, conspiracy to interfere with his civil rights, violation of the Open Meetings Act, assault, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
Genesee County residents voting. Julian Leshay Guadalupe | MLive.com

GENESEE COUNTY, MI - Voters in Genesee County weighed in Tuesday, May 6 on a series of school millage and bond proposals, deciding the fate of more than $45 million in potential funding across several districts.

Have a look below at how each of the proposals for Kearsley schools, Bentley schools, Grand Blanc schools, Davison schools, and Montrose schools fared with voters.

The following vote totals are unofficial results from the Genesee County Clerks Office.

Kearsley Community Schools operating millage proposal

Kearsley Community Schools saw strong support for its operating millage renewal.

Voters approved the proposal by a margin of 1,159 yes votes (63.68%) to 661 no votes (36.32%).

The renewal ensures the district can continue receiving its full per-pupil funding from the state.

The measure would levy up to 19 mills on non-exempt properties from 2025 through 2034. That includes the standard 18 mills on commercial, industrial and rental properties and an extra 1 mill to guard against potential Headlee reductions.

Bentley Community Schools building and site bond proposal

Bentley Community Schools received voter approval for its $2.9 million bond proposal, which will fund remodeling, equipping, and improving the districts preschool building and related facilities.

The measure passed with 517 yes votes (58.88%) and 361 no votes (41.12%).

Davison Community Schools sinking fund millage proposal

In Davison Community Schools, voters turned down a sinking fund millage that would have allowed the district to collect money annually for school building repairs and improvements.

The results of that contest were 2,436 votes in favor (46.81%) and 2,768 votes against (53.19%) in Genesee County.

In Lapeer County, where a small portion of the districts voters are located, the measure saw 5 yes votes and 12 no votes.

The fund couldve also been used for technology, safety and transportation needs.

Grand Blanc Community Schools building and site sinking fund renewal proposal

In Grand Blanc Community Schools, a sinking fund renewal and restoration proposal passed comfortably.

The measure, which will allow the district to continue collecting 0.9915 mills for building repairs, security upgrades, and other facility needs, was approved by 4,733 yes votes (64.36%), while 2,621 voted no (35.64%).

The proposal will authorize a levy of 0.9915 mills from 2026 through 2035 and generate an estimated $2.3 million in its first year.

Montrose Community Schools operating millage renewal proposal

Montrose Community Schools also secured voter approval for its operating millage renewal.

The district asked voters to renew its 17.3904-mill operating millage for another 10 years, beginning in 2026.

The proposal passed with 508 yes votes (54.10%) and 431 no votes (45.90%) in Genesee County.

In Saginaw County, where one precinct voted, the measure saw 11 yes votes and 10 no votes, further cementing the proposals approval.

The renewal is projected to generate about $861,647 in its first year and is essential to maintaining the districts state funding.
Voters in Allendale again shut down a 30-year, $88.1 million bond proposal for the areas school district on May 6, after rejecting a previous request in 2024. (MLive File Photo)

ALLENDALE, MI - Voters in Allendale again shut down a 30-year, $88.1 million bond proposal for the areas school district on May 6, after rejecting a previous request in 2024.

This time around, the bond proposal failed by a vote of 1,661 to 2,392, according to the unofficial election results from the Ottawa County Clerks Office. A total of 4,053 voters weighed in, and 40.98% approved the bond.

District leaders said the bond would not raise the current tax rate of 12 mills, and would allow the district to invest in critical improvements. Allendale enrolled 2,568 students this school year.

RELATED: Allendale schools seeking $88.1M bond for new fieldhouse, early childcare center expansion

Among the district areas that would receive bond dollars were the early childcare center, Evergreen Elementary, the Oakwood Intermediate/administration building, Allendale Middle School, Allendale High School and the Ceglarek Fine Arts Center.

Key projects proposed were a new robotics and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) building, along with a new multipurpose fieldhouse.

The bond would have also funded district security enhancements, upgraded technology, playground and parking area upgrades across multiple buildings.

Another major part of the bond proposal, with a cost around $34 million, would have been the renovation of Allendale High School, 10760 68th Ave.

The expansion of the districts early childhood center, 10455 Timberline Dr., would have been the final major renovation at a cost of $19 million.

Superintendent Garth Cooper said the early childhood center expansion was actually what jump-started bond conversations. The district has several classrooms of pre-K students housed in its elementary building due to space constraints.

In addition to these larger projects, Cooper said bond dollars would have gone toward keeping kids warm, safe and dry with building upgrades including roof repairs, HVAC system maintenance and building security upgrades.

Want more Grand Rapids-area news? Bookmark the local Grand Rapids news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Grand Rapids daily newsletter.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI The owner of a former Black-owned nightclub says he plans to refile a lawsuit alleging the city of Grand Rapids discriminated against his business by denying requests for police to stop ongoing loitering and violence outside the club at closing time.

A previous lawsuit filed by Ambiance GR Kitchen & Lounge against the city was dismissed in federal court in October 2024 and state court in January. Federal Judge Jane Beckering said the club failed to show it was treated differently than similar businesses.
Samantha McClelland, a senior at Forest Hills Northern High School, won the Roger B. Chaffee Scholarship after writing about her experience as one of few women in her local astronomical association. She received a plaque and a $5,000 scholarship during banquet at the Grand Rapids Public Museum on May 1, from Robert Steelman, president of the Roger B. Chaffee Scholarship Fund Board of Directors. (Mike Karpus | MLive.com) Mike Karpus | MLive.com

GRAND RAPIDS, MI - When Samantha McClelland first walked into a meeting of the Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association, she was the youngest in the room and one of only three women.

In an essay she wrote, McClelland described being unsurprised by the realization that she was surrounded by mostly men and theyre all bald.

In her weeks of astrophysics research and astronomy reading, she had yet to find a book by a female astrophysicist.

Its a little bit intuitive (to think) am I in the right place? she said. What room did I just walk into?

Writing about this experience - and how she overcame it - helped earn McClelland, a Forest Hills Northern High School senior, the 2025 Roger B. Chaffee scholarship.

The prestigious scholarship is in honor of the Grand Rapids astronaut who perished with two others in the Apollo 1 mission on Jan. 27, 1967 - NASAs first fatal spacecraft accident.

Roger B. Chaffee, 31, a United States Navy Lieutenant Commander, was preparing for his first space flight. He died with Virgil Gus Grissom and Lt. Col. Edward H. White, when a flash fire occurred during a launch pad test at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. He was survived by his wife and two children, and was awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honor after his death.

The $5,000 scholarship in his name is awarded annually to a student in the Kent Intermediate School District who intends to pursue a college career in engineering, mathematics or sciences related to space technology.

Chaffee, a graduate of Central High School, who received a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Purdue University, was one of the third group of astronauts selected by NASA in 1963.

McClelland wants to major in astrophysics at the University of Notre Dame, where shes been accepted. She was inspired by a female astrophysics professor who guest spoke at an Astronomical Association meeting.

She said pursuing her passions in a room full of people who dont necessarily look like her has been a valuable learning experience, and its taught her that standing out isnt necessarily a bad thing.

It was definitely a little bit of a learning experience, she said, to figure out how to maneuver that situation and get to know people when at first it kind of seemed like I didnt have as much in common with them.

One commonality McClelland said she does share with members of the association is a love of astronomy. She frequently visits the James C. Veen Observatory in Lowell, attending meetings and using the telescope to search for stars.

You can look up at night and you (think you) can see it all, she said. But then once you learn about it, you understand that theres so much more to all the little dots that are up there.

McClelland said she loves the idea that she can look up at the same stars as someone hundreds of miles away, part of a really big community of people learning about this and enjoying the night sky.

In a letter of recommendation included in McClellands application, her AP Calculus and Statistics teacher Jacob Kelly described her as filled with intellectual curiosity that extends far beyond the classroom.

I can say without hesitation that she is one of the most exceptional students I have encountered in my 18 years as an educator, he said.

Heather McKinney-Rewa, Forest Hills Northerns principal, said seeing students like McClelland fills your bucket each day.

It brings a vibrancy to the learning environment, said McKinney-Rewa, in her first year as Forest Hills principal, and it makes you feel like this is part of the reason why I got into the profession.

McKinney-Rewa said McClellands passion shows the importance of working to prepare young female students to feel confident, to feel that sense of educated risk taking, to feel as though they are strong communicators.

If you would like more reporting like this delivered free to your inbox, click and signup for our weekly newsletter: Michigan Schools.
Andrica Cage, the mother of a man fatally struck by an unmarked state police patrol vehicle, was among demonstrators outside the Christopher Schurr murder trial Tuesday. (John Tunison | MLive) John Tunison

GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- The mother of a man struck and killed by an unmarked state police vehicle was among the demonstrators to show up Tuesday outside the Christopher Schurr murder trial.

Andrica Cage was among more than three dozen people who gathered outside the Kent County courthouse as jurors continued deliberations in the second-degree murder trial of Schurr.
Police used a powder spray on protesters outside the Christopher Schurr murder trial in Grand Rapids on Tuesday, May 6. Protesters clashed with police after a protester was arrested. (John Tunison | MLive) John Tunison

GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- Police used a powder spray on protesters who confronted officers trying to detain a woman outside the Christopher Schurr murder trial.

The happened just after a judge sent jurors home for the day to continue deliberations Wednesday.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI  The jury in the murder trial for Christopher Schurr, the former Grand Rapids police officer charged in Patrick Lyoyas death, was deadlocked during its second day of deliberations.

A 12-person jury began deliberations Tuesday morning, May 6, to decide whether Schurr is guilty of killing Lyoya, a 26-year-old Congolese immigrant, during a traffic stop three years ago.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI  After three days of deliberations, the jury has not reached a verdict in the murder trial for former Grand Rapids police officer Christopher Schurr.

Jurors continued deliberating Wednesday, May 7, to decide whether Schurr, 34, is guilty of second-degree murder for killing Patrick Lyoya, a 26-year-old Congolese immigrant, following a traffic stop and altercation.
Voters in Kent, Ottawa and Muskegon counties decided the fate of operating cash millage requests on Tuesday, May 6, that support day-to-day operations for students at 12 school districts. Cory Morse | MLive.com

GRAND RAPIDS, MI  Voters approved 12 operating millage requests to support day-to-day operations for students in Kent, Ottawa and Muskegon county school districts on Tuesday, May 6.

School districts must pass the operating millage request to receive their full funding from the state for all their students, school districts must levy 18 mills on non-homestead property.

The millages do not apply to primary residences, rather non-homestead property like vacation homes, businesses and commercial property.

RELATED: 12 West Michigan school districts with operating cash requests on May 6 ballot - mlive.com

Heres a look at the unofficial results for each school district:

KENT COUNTY

Caledonia Community Schools: The operating millage request for 18.7741-mills for five years, 2026 to 2030, passed with 64.61% of the vote, 2,874 to 1,574. Caledonia is expected to collect approximately $16.9 million next year.

Forest Hills Public Schools: The operating millage request to renew 18.1297-mills and increase it .5 mill for a period of six years, 2026 to 2031, passed with 76.89% of the vote, 7,506 to 2,256. Forest Hills is estimated to collect approximately $24 million next year.

Kelloggsville Public School District: The operating millage request for 18.8166 mills for five years, 2025 to 2029, passed with 67.17% of the vote, 583 to 285. Kelloggsville is estimated to collect $4.4 million next year.

Kentwood Public Schools: The districts request to increase its operating millage by 3.9295-mills for five years 2025 to 2029, passed with 62.79% of the vote, 3,591 to 2,128. Kentwood is estimated to collect approximately $75,000 next year.

Sparta Area Schools: The operating millage request for 18.5358-mills for 10 years, 2026 to 2035, passed with 71.36% of the vote, 1,298 to 521. Sparta is estimated to collect $3 million next year.

Montcalm Countys Lakeview Community Schools: The districts request for 18.2-mills for the next five years passed with 55.30% of the vote, 684 to 553, according to the unofficial results from the Montcalm County Clerks Office. The district will collect an estimated $2.6 million next year.

Some Kent County residents in Spencer Township were eligible to vote on the proposal because the school district extends into the township.

OTTAWA COUNTY

West Ottawa Public Schools: The districts request for 18-mills for one year passed with 64.3% of the vote, 5,116 to 2,836. The district is expected to collect $19.6 million next year.

Zeeland Public Schools: The districts request for 18.6727-mills for 2026 passed with 63.5% of the vote, 3,165 to 1,822. The district is expected to collect $11.4 million next year.

Holland Public Schools: The districts request for 19.2523-mills for three years was approved with 80.9% of the vote, 3,865 to 914. The district is expected to collect $13.3 million next year.

Grand Haven Area Public Schools: The districts request for 18-mills for one year was approved with 66.01% of the vote, 6,260 to 3,223. The district is expected to collect $20.9 million next year.

Some Muskegon County residents were eligible to vote on the proposal because the district extends into the southern portion of the county.

Spring Lake Public Schools: The districts request for 18.2350-mills for two years passed with 60.3% of the vote, 1,550 to 1,020. The district will collect approximately $4.66 million in 2025.

MUSKEGON COUNTY

Whitehall District Schools: The districts request for 20-mills for the next 10 years passed with 58.56% of the vote, 1,768 to 1,251. The district is expected to collect $4.2 million next year.
The exterior of the Michigan Military Heritage Museum building in Jackson. A Black historic group in Michigan is alleged they were denied entry into a local museum due to race. Chloe Miller | MLive.com

JACKSON, MI  The leader of a Black historic group in Michigan is upset the group was denied entry to a local museum.

Maurice Imhoff believes race played a role when the Michigans Military Heritage Museum turned away the Gospel Army Black History Group, but board president Scott Gerych said Imhoff was told to leave due to a past dispute.

It has nothing to do with race, Gerych said. We are a Museums for All institution, we have been a Save Our Youth institution for five yearsPersonally, I think its a nonissue.

Student members of the Gospel Army Black History Group  also known as the 102nd United States Colored Troops Company C  were in Jackson on April 18, receiving a donation from Chelsea State Bank, when the group decided to take a detour down to the museum, 311 N. Wisner St., Imhoff, executive program director, said.

Staff told Imhoff and the students they were not supposed to be there, and Imhoff himself was no longer welcome at the museum. Imhoff said the staff refused to explain why he was not welcome, so they all left shortly after.

The encounter rattled the group, and Imhoff believes the denial was racially motivated, citing the lack of explanation and the staffs tone, he said.

He said he felt it was inappropriate and uncalled for because the group are young men and students.

Scott Gerych, Michigans Military Heritage Museum board president, confirmed Imhoff was denied access. This is because of a personal conflict between the museum and Imhoff, but the entire group of students were welcome to enter.

The Gospel Army Black History Group is a student-led living history group that tell the story of the 102nd U.S. Colored Troops, which operated as an African American infantry unit of the Union Army during the Civil War. Its comprised of mostly African American students, under the age of 25, from all over the state, including Lansing and Jackson, said Imhoff said.

Imhoff is also the president of the Jackson County Historical Society and organizes the annual Jackson Civil War Muster.

Ive talked to friends of ours who said, Maybe (the museum) didnt mean it that way, Imhoff said. Whether they have intended it that way or not, whats done is done. I may say something that offends someone, that I might not think is. In this case, it was pretty clear, You are not welcome here.

Michigans Military Heritage Museum banned Imhoff from the property in 2022 when he was running to represent the 46th House District as a Democrat against Republican candidate Kathy Schmaltz, now a state representative.

After announcing his candidacy, Gerych said Imhoff asked to present the museum with a certificate of appreciation from the historical society. He was informed he could as long as he didnt campaign.

When the Schmaltz campaign later approached the museum to host a presentation of Juneteenth flags, they were given the same guidelines  no campaigning. Imhoff said that after seeing the Schmaltz event, he distanced himself from the museum.

However, Gerych contends Imhoffs campaign at the time began a letter-writing campaign, attacking the nonprofit status of the museum.

He brought a political situation into a nonprofit, Gerych said. We cant have that.

Gerych said museum officials asked Imhoff to stop the letters, as equal time was given to both candidates. Eventually, the board decided the museum would not welcome him back until he apologized to the board, which he has not done, he said.

Gerych said then board treasurer Dennis Skupinski notified Imhoff of this. He said he could not locate the alleged letters from Imhoff or verify how Imhoff was notified because Skupinski died in 2023.

Imhoff denied writing letters to the museum and said he was not aware he was barred from the property.

Its just completely out of the ballpark to me that they would be saying this, Imhoff said.

Imhoff said he does not plan to file a claim to the Michigan Department of Civil Rights. He said they simply wanted to share their side of the story.

Were here to tell history, Imhoff said.

Michigan Department of Civil Rights Communications Director Vicki Levengood said the department has not received any discrimination complaints against the museum.

David A. Kallman, a Lansing-based attorney, said the museum has some solid grounds to bar Imhoff from the property due to personal and political conflict. Even without the alleged letters, preventing someone from entering their property is the owners right, so long as its done in writing, he said.

Its basic property rights, Kallman said. As a property owner, you can bar anybody from coming on your property. You can tell the police to stay off your property. Unless they have a warrant or court order, theyve got to leave.

Federal and state laws, however, prohibit discrimination based on a persons race, religion, disability, national origin, sex or familial status.

Want more Jackson-area news? Bookmark the local Jackson news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Jackson daily newsletter.
KALAMAZOO, MI  A man accused of killing a young father in Kalamazoo has admitted to doing so in a plea agreement, according to a law enforcement official.

On Monday, May 5, Khymarus Pratt, 20, pleaded guilty as charged to both counts against him, first-degree murder and felony firearm, Chief Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Jeff Williams said.
Bangor, Michigan, "The Gateway to the Lake," is a small town in Southwest Michigan. (Brad Devereaux | bdeverea@mlive.com)

BANGOR, MI  The current mayor of a small town in Southwest Michigan will keep her position, defeating a challenger who questioned her leadership.

Lynne Farmer received 63% of the vote, or 179 votes, defeating challenger Steve Honeycutt in the city of Bangors mayors race, according to unofficial results posted by Van Buren County.
S&T Landscaping puts trees into the yard of Lisa Elanders home, a resident of Colony Woods, on Monday, April 21, 2025. Elander is a few weeks into re-landscaping her backyard, which lost dozens of trees as a result of the Portage tornado that struck in 2024. Elander said the landscaping job is going to cost around $60,000. (Devin Anderson-Torrez | MLive.com)
KALAMAZOO COUNTY, MI -- Brandi Janes, the new director of emergency management for Kalamazoo County, is no stranger to disasters.

She came to Kalamazoo from Louisiana where she worked for the state police in counterterrorism and emergency response.

Janes was called in to assist in 2005 during Hurricane Katrina, one of the deadliest hurricanes in U.S. history. She served as a 911 operator, so when landlines stopped working, she resorted to texting with her personal phone to coordinate rescues.

I didnt go home for three months during Katrina, Janes said.

Her disaster experience came in handy on May 7, 2024, when an EF2 tornado touched down in Portage.

MORE: I still have nightmares: Trailer park tornado survivors cant stop reliving the trauma

At the time, Janes was the city of Kalamazoos emergency manager. The three people at Kalamazoo Countys emergency management department were away at a emergency management conference.

Janes skipped the conference for personal reasons. So when the tornado  tied for the strongest in Kalamazoo County since the 1980s  touched down, she leaped into action as her colleagues from the county and surrounding counties raced back home.

The tornado was a wake-up call, Janes said. Michiganders may not expect a tornado, but they need to be prepared, she said.

Every area is susceptible to tornadoes, Janes said. It just doesnt happen very often for us.

RELATED: No, Michigan isnt getting more tornadoes, but they are changing

Janes started as the countys emergency manager in November 2024. Mike Corfman retired from the job shortly after the tornado, although it wasnt related  it had been planned since January 2024.

Theres been one notable change to how Kalamazoo County handles emergencies since last Mays tornado.

The county board voted to transition the emergency managers office from the sheriffs office to the county administrative structure in September 2024. The change allows for better communication with the administrator and agencies like public health, public safety and public works.

Smaller counties typically have the department within the sheriffs office, while larger counties are more often separate, Janes said.

The new structure is helpful because the county administrator can provide answers to questions or assist on projects, Janes said. But Janes department still works closely with the sheriffs office.

We support each other, Janes said.

When emergencies arent happening, Janes said the department is working to mitigate the impacts of potential future disasters. This includes strengthening dams, repairing bridges, improving drainage systems and buying generators.

You take every possible disaster that could hit an area, even the unlikely ones, and you plan for it, Janes said.

Since the tornado, Janes said the county has improved their planning for a mass power outage event. After the tornado, more than 25,000 Consumers Energy customers were without power.

Janes also said shes looking into planning options for earthquakes.

One of the biggest takeaways from the tornado was stressing the importance of disaster preparedness to residents, Janes said.

It tends to be out of sight, out of mind. If youre not used to that sort of thing affecting your area, you just dont think that its that important, Janes said.

The Pavilion Estates community addressed the aftermath of potential tornadoes on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. The impact shredded through several trailer homes in Kalamazoo, Michigan the night before, causing injury and loss of belongings, cars and homes. Devin Anderson-Torrez | MLive.com

Every person should have a go bag with three days of clothes, toiletries and medications. If severe weather hits, people should go to a safe space in their house.

You cant just go, Oh, whats that noise? Why is the sky green? Janes said. You dont have time to just be curious. You just need to act.

There were no deaths after the tornado and limited injuries. But it could have been much worse, Janes said.

Its almost impossible to predict where a tornado will touch down, Janes said. Weather forecasts from the National Weather Service indicated there was a chance for tornadoes on May 7 several days in advance. But forecasts cant predict where a storm will drop a tornado.

You dont usually know that ones going to happen until minutes before, Janes said.

If severe weather is forecasted, people need to pay attention to weather forecast and emergency alerts. Janes said she has a weather radio at home, a weather app on her phone and makes sure her phone is receiving notifications from the National Weather Service.

RELATED: Elon Musks DOGE fires hundreds of National Weather Service forecasters, lawmakers say it will endanger American lives

The county has been notified staffing cuts to the National Weather Service will impact the region but theyre still figuring out what the impacts of those cuts will be.

Theyre still going to do everything they can to support us in every possible way, Janes said.

Janes was at home with her family when the tornado struck. Once safe to go outside, she went back to her office at the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety and then to assist at the Portage emergency operations center.

Hundreds of buildings were damaged and 60 destroyed in Portage, Texas Township and Pavilion Township.

The county had a plan for how to respond to a tornado and received assistance from nearby counties, Janes said.

Theres not much, in hindsight, Janes would change about the May 7 tornado response  although her team has learned things from the experience.

The past year has also revealed unforeseen challenges with recovery.

The backyard of Lisa Elander, a resident of Colony Woods, on Monday, April 21, 2025. Elander is a few weeks into re-landscaping her backyard, which lost dozens of trees as a result of the Portage tornado that struck in 2024. Elander said that coyotes are nesting in the hundreds of fallen trees back behind her home. (Devin Anderson-Torrez | MLive.com)

One challenge after the fact has been tree removal. Spaces in the Gourdneck State Game Area and Celery Flats Historic Area still have toppled trees that have gone untouched since the tornado.

In the state game area, coyotes have moved in to build their dens in the fallen trees. At night, they howl and roam nearby neighborhoods.

RELATED: Coyotes move into neighborhood hit by tornado, residents fear for pets

Going into summer, the swaths of fallen trees will be a fire risk if theres a drought, Janes said.

The county is still looking for ways to clear the fallen trees. Some residents have received financial assistance to clear trees on their property from state budget appropriations.

The county didnt receive any federal assistance from FEMA after a request from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer was rejected. Janes said the damage didnt reach the financial threshold for FEMA assistance, as is the case with many tornadoes.

A tornado touches down and has a path. So its not like the entire area is affected, Janes said. Its not widespread damage, and that can be the issue.

Want more Kalamazoo-area news? Bookmark the local Kalamazoo news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Kalamazoo daily newsletter.
Green Rabbit Home Builders have constructed two of the at least 30 homes they have planned for the east side of Muskegon. Pictured is a modular home being placed at 460 Langley Avenue in the Jackson Hill neighborhood of Muskegon on May 1, 2025. (Photo provided to MLive by Green Rabbit Home Builders) Photo provided to MLive by Green Rabbit Home Builders

MUSKEGON, MI - Builders have been working swiftly over the last month, building foundations for homes on empty lots in Muskegons Jackson Hill neighborhood.

Green Rabbit Home Builders have constructed two of the at least 30 homes they have planned for the east side of Muskegon.

The new homes are located at 460 Langley and 608 Jackson.

The properties have come together in about a month and are almost ready to be shown.

The homes will be sold at accessible price points - between $225,000 and $290,000, said Ellyn Olney, one of the three co-owners of Green Rabbit.

One 9,000 square-foot lot has been split into two parcels, each containing an 1,175 to 1,400 square-foot home.

They each have two bedrooms, two bathrooms and basements, with the ability to complete a bedroom and full bathroom. They come with all new appliances except for washer and dryer.

The inside of one of the new homes in the Jackson Hill Neighborhood by Green Rabbit Home Builders. Kayla Tucker

One of them has a garage.

The modular homes are made of a wood and drywall internal structure and vinyl exterior.

The pre-built homes are hauled to the lot and placed on the foundation spots, built of metal and cement.

Olney and another owner, Bryant Mitchell, both realtors, said they noticed a specific client base.

These clients were getting approved in that price range but struggled to find new homes or ones that didnt need significant repairs. Often, they found themselves in competitive bidding situations.

If those people saved up paycheck to paycheck to get that down payment in the first place, or figured it out, they dont have the money to go put on a brand-new roof or gut the house and redo the whole thing, said Jenifer Jackson, another co-owner.

Thats what feels good about this, is theyre getting something thats brand new and they can hit the ground running, efficiently.

Jackson came to the group with nonprofit experience and having gone through the homebuying process with her sister.

New homeowners will also benefit from the already granted Neighborhood Enterprise Zone, giving them a 50% property tax abatement for 15 years.

Developers said the city of Muskegons new zoning laws have helped their cause, allowing for more density by way of smaller houses on smaller lots and more housing styles.

Muskegon is probably one of the more progressive cities, Mitchell said. What theyre trying to do is create a tighter density ... These have been vacant lots for a long time, and the city cant make revenue off of a vacant lot, so were going to provide them taxes from both of these houses.

Green Rabbit has staked out several other lots in the neighborhood, including on McLaren Street, Jackson Avenue and a few in the neighborhood across Marquette Avenue.

They previously purchased the lots from the city.

Green Rabbit is working with a large-scale company that is building many houses around the country, therefore able to purchase parts at a cheaper, bulk rate.

The new projects will feature modern and energy-efficient designs that blend seamlessly with the neighborhoods character while meeting the needs of todays homeowners, a press release from the developer stated.

Not all houses will be the same - there are a variety of floor plans that developers are working with, all between two to three bedrooms each.

Some of the lots have been vacant for 30 to 40 years.

I think were really changing the face of this neighborhood, Olney said. In a two-block area, in the next year, well have 15 new houses on the ground.

Were not just building houses  were building futures, Mitchell said. Our goal is to create homes where families can thrive for generations.

Green Rabbit has a focus on sustainability, craftsmanship, and community engagement.

Before building, they said they met with the Jackson Hill neighborhood association, local nonprofits and the Muskegon County Community Foundation.

The developers said they have had interest from potential buyers and plan to host a series of open houses for the two new Muskegon homes in the coming weeks.

Want more Muskegon-area news? Bookmark the local Muskegon news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Muskegon daily newsletter.
Shown here in Vatican City, Charles Warner is a Michigan resident pursuing the priesthood at Pontifical North American College in Rome. The Saginaw News/MLive.com

VATICAN CITY  For Charles Warner, the journey from Michigan to Rome was measured in more than miles.

The Midland-born seminarian with the Diocese of Saginaw discovered his passion to pursue a life in the clergy after a series of academic and professional endeavors failed to stoke his inner fire.

Now, as a third-year student pursuing the priesthood at Pontifical North American College in Vatican City, Warner anticipates he will be within view of the smoke signals expected to signal the election of a new pope in the coming days.

My university said, if white smoke goes up, classes are canceled immediately, Warner said. If I see that, Ill run to (St. Peters Square), if Im not there already.

Having a front-row seat to the transition of power for the Catholic Church  an organization with 1.4 billion followers globally  was not an experience Warner predicted would accompany his studies in Rome. After all, only three popes have been in power during Warners lifetime.

That front-row experience included participating in the daily rosary prayer that was scheduled at St. Peters Square in support of Pope Francis as he struggled with his health in recent weeks.

And, after Pope Francis died the day after Easter Sunday last month, Warner was tasked with helping to distribute the Holy Communion sacrament  the offering of bread and wine meant to represent the body and blood of Jesus Christ  to the faithful present in St. Peters Square on the day of the popes funeral.

Warner mourned for the pope with the rest of the faithful.

That focus changed in recent days, though, as Catholic Church leaders there prepared for the Conclave, or the process that will involve 132 sequestered Vatican cardinals choosing the 267th pontiff.

I just have a lot of comfort that the next pope will be the right pope, Warner said. Im comforted by the process and by the movement of the Holy Spirit.

The search for such comfort led him down that path that landed him in Vatican City, Warner said.

A 2009 graduate of Saginaw Township-based Heritage High School, Warner studied at the University of Michigan, where he received a masters degree in biomedical engineering.

He worked for six years at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in Washington, D.C., before realizing he desired to follow a different path in life.

I was working, I had a girlfriend, I had good friends; Everything was working out but I just didnt really feel fulfilled, Warner said. It made me reflective of my relationship with the church and my relationship with God and what I was doing with my life. I started a time of prayer, reading scripture, talking with the priests, and that led me to becoming more connected with God and what he wants for me.

Warner attended a retreat for men considering priesthood.

And I hated it, he said. And then what followed was a real deep sadness, a real deep loneliness, because I said no to what God was asking of me.

Warner said he eventually had enough of that feeling, and decided to join the seminary.

It was like peace and joy since that moment, and its stayed with me, he said.

While Warner could have studied for the priesthood in Michigan, he said Diocese of Saginaws Bishop Robert Gruss approached Warner about seeking that education at the home of the Catholic Church.

Not everyone gets to come to Rome, Warner said. After praying on it, I said, yes.

He began his studies there in 2022.

Its kind of like becoming a doctor except, instead of a doctor of the body, you become a doctor of the soul, Warner said.

Outside of return visits home to Michigan and missions in both Nepal and India, Warner has spent much of the last three years at Pontifical North American College in Vatican City.

The facilities there are about a 10-minute walk from St. Peters Basilica, considered by followers as one of the holiest Catholic shrines. Warner said he is scheduled in October to be ordained as a transitional deacon, a step in the process for individuals seeking ordination to the priesthood.

Of about 120 students at the college, Warner is the lone seminarian from the Diocese of Saginaw, the Saginaw Township-based organization that covers 11 Eastern Michigan counties that 100,000 Catholics call home.

Warner said he is on track to return to Michigan and serve as a priest at a parish within the Diocese of Saginaw within two years.

To listen to Warner discuss his experiences pursuing the priesthood, the Diocese of Saginaw podcast series United in Mission: One Heart and Mind features a 24-minute interview with him at saginaw.org/Podcasts.

In a second diosese-produced podcast, Warner discusses the experience of studying in Rome during the transition between popes. That video is available at vimeo.com/1082245622.

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.
SAGINAW, MI  Questioned by a police investigator on how his girlfriends toddler suffered fatal injuries in his care, a Holland man professed ignorance. As the interview wore on, though, he admitted to tossing the baby onto a bed in a moment of roughhousing.

The man, 31-year-old Marcelis M. James, listened silently as an audio recording of his interview played during his trial before Saginaw County Circuit Judge Andre R. Borrello. James is charged with felony murder and first-degree child abuse in the 2021 death of his then-girlfriends 18-month-old son, Jaxxon N. Jones. Jaxxons mother, 38-year-old Nia J. Kindred, faces the same two charges.
The Michigan House passed a package of bills Tuesday aimed at curbing hostile foreign influence in Michigan.

The eight-bill package would limit how Chinese and Russian companies could do business in Michigan, forbidding them from purchasing farmland and property near military installations along with making them ineligible for state economic incentives and more.

It would also put restrictions on how public schools and universities interact with China, Russia and other countries of concern, limiting what grants they can receive from these countries and requiring federal authorities to vet any cultural exchange agreements with those countries.

The package was passed Tuesday, May 6, mostly along party lines, with all Republicans in favor and most Democrats opposed. The bills will now be considered by the Democratic-majority Senate.

State Rep. Bill G. Schuette, R-Midland, said the measures in the package would protect Michigans residents, security and economy from various forms of foreign meddling.

From my experience as an intelligence officer with the Defense Department, I know firsthand there are adversaries out there who are looking to steal our data and undermine our state and country where they can, Schuette said.

I would monitor and evaluate how our nations enemies and their governments like China, Iran and North Korea attempted to gain influence, subvert sovereignty and gain control in many countries across the globe.

Now, as a member of the state Legislature, I find it very unsettling that some of these same tactics are being used here in Michigan.

Two bills in the package werent advanced to a vote Tuesday. One of the bills wouldve banned state and local governments from using communications and information technology made in China and other countries of concern. Another wouldve forbid state and local government from contracting with businesses in or governments of countries of concern.

Related: Michigan GOP proposes restrictions on foreign land ownership, use of Chinese communications tech

Countries of concern are defined in the bills as China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela and Syria.

Lawmakers in the Michigan Democratic Partys Asian Pacific American Caucus likened the two bills in the package restricting foreign land ownership to racist alien land laws. Those laws largely targeted Asian immigrants and prohibited or limited the land they could purchase.

Our Constitution clearly protects property rights for Michiganders, and our civil rights laws protect individuals from discrimination based on national origin, the lawmakers said. House Bills 4233-4234 do nothing to help Michiganders struggling to afford a decent home or solve our housing crisis. In fact, these bills would make it harder for realtors to do their jobs, further xenophobia, create a logistical nightmare and would absolutely be challenged quickly in court for being unconstitutional.

The bills would ban governments, party officials, businesses or other combination of persons based in countries of concern from purchasing farmland in the state and property within 20 miles of military installations or critical infrastructure like water treatment plants, power plants, chemical manufacturing plants and more.

Land currently owned by these entities would have to be sold within two years of the legislation taking effect, said state Rep. Gina Johnsen, R-Portland.

Johnsen said foreign enemies are purchasing farmland to steal away the symbol of food security, generations of farming traditions and American self-reliance.

There is something intrinsically American about driving through rural Michigan surrounded by farmland as far as the eye can see, said Johnsen. Now, imagine the fear and doubt youd feel knowing the fields surrounding you were owned by the Chinese or Iranians  countries who want nothing more than to see our democracy collapse.

While all bills in the package drew support from Republicans and little from Democrats, two of them saw more support across the aisle.

The bill requiring physical and virtual medical records to be maintained in either the U.S. or Canada passed by a 71-39 vote. Republicans hold 58 seats, while Democrats hold 52.

The other bill would require the state to determine which applications from countries of concern might compromise security.

State and local governments and public schools would then be required to block those applications from government-issued electronic devices and networks.

The bill passed by a 79-31 vote. Speaker Pro Tem Rachelle Smit, R-Martin, said some foreign-owned apps are used to collect sensitive information.

Our enemies abroad are doing everything they can to infiltrate our country and do harm to our residents, said Smit. Allowing apps operated by our biggest foreign threats on government devices gives bad actors a free pass to access our government systems, sensitive data, and national security information. We must slam the door in their face and show that Michigan has no tolerance for foreign meddling.

The bill package stems from the Homeland Security and Foreign Influence Committee, created earlier this year by the new House Republican majority to address concerns about foreign influence, especially Chinese influence, in Michigan.

Heres some of what the other bills in the package would do:
President Donald Trump gestures after presenting a National Medal of the Arts to actor Jon Voight on Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) AP

Academy Award winning actor Jon Voight has long been a top supporter of President Donald Trump.

These days he works for him in an official capacity as a Special Advisor to Hollywood alongside Mel Gibson and Sylvester Stallone.

On Sunday. Trump announced that he planned to implement 100% tariffs on any and all movies coming into (the) country that are produced in foreign lands. As a result, many in the industry have been seeking comment from Voight, who reportedly spearheaded the plan.

In an interview published by Variety on Wednesday, the 86-year-old film legend expressed his support for Trumps proposed tariff, but not without taking a seemingly random shot at Michigans biggest and most important city.

Its come to a point where we really do need help and thank God the president cares about Hollywood and movies, Voight, who described Trump as a movie buff and pop culture enthusiast, said.

He has a great love for Hollywood in that way. Weve got to roll up our sleeves here. We cant let it go down the drain like Detroit.

Its unclear why Voight took the random shot at Detroit, which has struggled with crime and became the largest U.S. city to file for bankruptcy in 2013, but has since experienced a renaissance and reversed many negative trends in the last decade.

Many observers pointed out its possible Voight is comparing Californias film industy to Michigans auto industry and the negative impact automakers leaving Detroit had on the citys wellbeing.

Either way, whoever is behind Detroits X account noticed.

Trump, Voight and their allies want to keep filmmaking in hotbeds like Los Angeles, New York and Atlanta instead of places like Canada, Australia and the U.K.

Trumps announcement on Truth Social that the movie industry in America is DYING a very fast death was met with skepticism and negative headlines by some, but Voight told Variety that reaction doesnt align with what hes heard from a broad spectrum of interests in the industry.

U.S. film and television production has been hampered in recent years, with setbacks from the COVID-19 pandemic, Hollywood guild strikes in 2023 and wildfires in the Los Angeles area earlier this year.

Los Angeles specifically has experienced a 40% reduction in film production over the last decade, according to the Hollywood Reporter

Other nations have been stealing the movie-making capabilities from the United States, Trump told reporters at the White House on Sunday night. If theyre not willing to make a movie inside the United States we should have a tariff on movies that come in.

On Tuesday, Deadline published a draft version of a plan created by Voight along with producer Steven Paul to keep filmmaking in the U.S. It included a 10% federal tax incentive for film and TV production, paired with an American cultural test similar to what takes place in the United Kingdom.

Voight said hes been in contact with people from every aspect of the film industry, both Republican and Democrat.

This shouldnt be political. I dont know the political identities of the people weve talked to. Weve talked to a lot of people here, he said.

I dont distinguish them on their party affiliation. And If we can come up with (a plan that can be executed), hell (Trump) back us. He wants us to be the Hollywood of old. If we all come together, I believe we have a bright future.

Voight, the father of A-lister Angelina Jolie, is a Hollywood legend. Hes appeared in films since the 1960s, earning four Academy Award nominations and a win for his portrayal of a paraplegic Vietnam veteran in 1978s Coming Home.

In 2019, he was awarded the National Medal of Arts and films he has appeared in have grossed more than $5.2 billion worldwide.
Canada Prime Minister Mark Carney and U.S. President Donald Trump engage in a meeting at the White House in Washington, Tuesday, May 6, 2025. (Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press via AP) AP

Michigans Pete Hoekstra, the U.S. ambassador to Canada, said hes encouraged by a Tuesday meeting between Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.

Hoekstra described the White House meeting as constructive.

The spirit of friendship throughout our meetings reminds me why this partnership matters. I look forward to working with our Canadian neighbors as our leaders chart a path forward for both our countries, Hoekstra wrote on X.

Hoekstra, a former congressman from West Michigan, was formerly the Michigan Republican Party chair before becoming ambassador.

RELATED: Canadians are canceling their U.S. vacations. What will it mean for Michigans summer tourism?

Hoekstras positive take on the meeting comes as the two nations navigate a strained relationship after Trump imposed tariffs and said he wanted Canada to become the 51st state.

Carney in late April won election as prime minister. Election analysts largely credited Trumps aggressive stance on Canada as a major factor in swaying voters in Carneys favor.

Not long before Trump and Carney met Tuesday, Trump posted on social media that the U.S. doesnt need ANYTHING from Canada.

But after the meeting, both Trump and Carney put a positive spin on the visit.

Regardless of anything, we are going to be friends with Canada... I have a lot of respect for the Canadians, Trump posted on X.

And Carney wrote on X: Our meeting today marks the beginning of a new relationship between Canada and the United States  based on respect, built on common interests, and to the transformational benefit of both our nations."

RELATED: Go here for more of MLives coverage of Trump

Michigan and Canada, especially Ontario, are deeply connected economically. Michigan exports more than $27.5 billion annually to Canada. Michigan and the Midwest are tied to Canada through numerous industries including automotive, clean water technology, manufacturing and agriculture.

Tourism is a big driver between Michigan and Canada, too. Michigan welcomed 714,900 visitors from Canada in 2023, with Canadian visitors spending $237.8 million in destinations and communities throughout the state, according to Pure Michigan.

Click here to follow MLives complete coverage of President Trumps impact on Michigan.
OXFORD, MI  The Michigan Court of Appeals denied a request from the Oxford High School shooter to withdraw his guilty plea or be resentenced after he was sentenced to life in prison in 2023 for killing four students and wounding others.

The Court of Appeals turned down Ethan Crumbleys application for leave to appeal, saying that there was lack of merit in the grounds presented.

The three-judge panel of Randy J. Wallace, Thomas C. Cameron and Sima G. Patel issued the order on Tuesday, May 6.

Crumbleys legal team asked Oakland County Judge Kwame Rowe to set aside the life sentence and allow Crumbley to withdraw his guilty plea. The Oakland County judge denied Crumbleys request, and the Court of Appeals reaffirmed that denial.

The 19-year-old was 15 when he committed the mass shooting. He is held at the Oaks Correctional Facility in Manistee.

His parents, James and Jennifer Crumbley, are serving 10-year prison terms for involuntary manslaughter.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Archisha Yadav is a sub editor with 1.5 years of experience in writing news articles on topics like education, jobs, and politics. She specialises in crafting simple, clear, and engaging stories that are easy to understand and hold the readers interest, making complex topics accessible and relatable to a larger audience.

Archisha Yadav

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
MC Education Desk Read the latest and trending news on CBSE, board exams, NEET, JEE, CUET, competitive exams, scholarships, college admissions, education policies, and more.

Rajni Pandey

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Allu Arjun meets Aamir Khan at his residence in Mumbai, surprise encounter sparks buzz about Pan-India collaboration

Palak Vij

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Palak Vij

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Gayatri Rani

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Conclave OTT Release Date: When and Where to stream Ralph Fiennes' starrer Oscar-nominated film in India

Gayatri Rani

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Exclusive-Samantha Ruth Prabhu opens up on turning producer with Subham; praises Gautham Menon for promoting her

Palak Vij

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Vaishnavi Gavankar

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Pakistani actors Hania Aamir and Mahira Khan slammed by NRI netizens over negative comments on Operation Sindoor

Vaishnavi Gavankar

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Prateik Babbar talks about his drug addiction during childhood: I got thrown out of every school and college...

Palak Vij

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Shah Rukh Khan expresses gratitude to designer Sabyasachi for his Met Gala Debut: 'Not my space but u made me feel so comfortable'

M Snehanjali

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Shanaya Kapoor shares precious moments with her late grandmother Nirmal Kapoor and family after her passing

Palak Vij

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Vijay Varma on Indian Army's Operation Sindoor strike in Pakistan: Masood Azhar needs an even harsher punishment

Vaishnavi Gavankar

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
At least 16 airports closed in north, west India after strike on Pakistan terror camps

Yaruqhullah Khan

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Taking Stock | No impact on Indian markets, bonds despite military action across border

Ravindra Sonavane

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Meghna Mittal

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
India-UK FTA done and dusted but bilateral investment treaty still pending

Sweta Goswami

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Pakistan set to see a jump in defence spending over next 2-4 years as tensions with India rise

Ishaan Gera

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Yaruqhullah Khan

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
India-Pakistan tensions not to impact crude prices as supply chains are intact, say experts

Shubhangi Mathur

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Veer Sharma

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Full text of Xi's signed article in Russian media

Xinhua) 16:14, May 07, 2025

MOSCOW, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday published a signed article titled "Learning from History to Build Together a Brighter Future" in the Russian Gazette newspaper ahead of his arrival in Russia for a state visit and attendance at the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War.

The following is the full text of the article:

Learning from History to Build Together a Brighter Future

H.E. Xi Jinping

President of the People's Republic of China

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War, and the World Anti-Fascist War. It also marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations (UN). In this season when "apple and pear trees are blossoming," I will soon pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War, joining the heroic Russian people in honoring the history and the fallen heroes.

Ten years ago around this time, I came to Russia to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the victory. During that visit, I made a special arrangement to meet with 18 representatives of Russian veterans who endured the blood and fire of battlefields during the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War and the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Their unyielding resolve and indomitable bearing left an indelible impression on me. In the past few years, General M. Gareyev, Major General T. Shchudlo and other veterans passed away. I pay my deepest tribute to them and to all veterans-from generals to the rank and file-for their extraordinary service and heroic feats in securing the victory over fascists around the world. We will never forget them. Heroes never perish; their noble spirit lives forever.

During the World Anti-Fascist War, the Chinese and Russian peoples fought shoulder to shoulder and supported each other. In the darkest hours of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the Soviet Volunteer Group, which was part of the Soviet Air Force, came to Nanjing, Wuhan and Chongqing to fight alongside the Chinese people, bravely engaging Japanese invaders in aerial combat-many sacrificing their precious lives. At the critical juncture of the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War, Yan Baohang, a legendary intelligence agent of the Communist Party of China (CPC) who was hailed as the "Richard Sorge of the East," provided the Soviet Union with primary-source intelligence. In the crucible of the war-torn years, the Soviet Union provided China with large quantities of weapons and equipment. China, for its part, shipped much-needed strategic supplies to the Soviet Union. The two countries jointly established a supply line spanning the treacherous Gobi Desert. It was an international lifeline, vital for our mutual support in fighting fascists. The strong camaraderie between our two nations, forged in blood and sacrifice, surges onward unceasingly, mighty as the Yellow River and the Volga. It is an eternal wellspring nourishing our everlasting friendship.

Eighty years ago, the forces of justice around the world, including China and the Soviet Union, united in courageous battles against their common foes and defeated the overbearing fascist powers. Eighty years later today, however, unilateralism, hegemonism, bullying, and coercive practices are severely undermining our world. Again humankind has come to a crossroads of unity or division, dialogue or confrontation, win-win cooperation or zero-sum games. In War and Peace, the great writer Leo Tolstoy observed, "History is the life of nations and of humanity." Indeed, historical memory and truth will not fade with the passage of time. They serve as inspirations that mirror the present and illuminate the future. We must learn from history, especially the hard lessons of the Second World War. We must draw wisdom and strength from the great victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, and resolutely resist all forms of hegemonism and power politics. We must work together to build a brighter future for humanity.

-- We must uphold a correct historical perspective on WWII. China and the Soviet Union were the principal theaters of that war in Asia and Europe respectively. The two countries served as the mainstay of resistance against Japanese militarism and German Nazism, making pivotal contribution to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. The Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression began the earliest and lasted the longest. United as one under the banner of the Chinese united front against Japanese aggression, which was advocated and established by the CPC, the Chinese people launched a relentless struggle against and defeated the brutal Japanese militarists. With immense sacrifice, they carved out an immortal epic of heroic resistance and ultimate victory against Japanese aggression. In the European theater, the Soviet Red Army advanced like an iron tide with unwavering fortitude and valor, crushed Nazi Germany's ambitions and liberated millions from its brutal occupation, writing an epic of victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War.

History teaches us that light will always overcome darkness, and that justice will ultimately prevail over evil. The International Military Tribunal at Nuremberg and the International Military Tribunal for the Far East condemned the convicted war criminals to perpetual infamy. The justice and integrity of the two landmark trials, their historic significance, and their contemporary relevance stand beyond challenge. Any attempt to distort the historical truth of WWII, deny its victorious outcome, or defame the historic contribution of China and the Soviet Union is doomed to fail. Neither of our two nations will tolerate any act to reverse the course of history-nor will the people of the whole world.

-- We must resolutely uphold the postwar international order. The most significant decision by the international community around the end of WWII was to establish the UN. China and the Soviet Union were among the first to sign the UN Charter. Our permanent membership in the UN Security Council is a product of history, earned through blood and sacrifice. The more turbulent and complex the international situation becomes, the more we must uphold and defend the authority of the UN, firmly uphold the UN-centered international system, the international order underpinned by international law, and the basic norms of international relations based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and steadily promote an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.

This year also marks the 80th anniversary of the restoration of Taiwan. Taiwan's restoration to China is a victorious outcome of WWII and an integral part of the postwar international order. A series of instruments with legal effect under international law, including the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation, have all affirmed China's sovereignty over Taiwan. The historical and legal fact therein brooks no challenge. And the authority of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 brooks no challenge. No matter how the situation on the Taiwan island evolves or what troubles external forces may make, the historical trend toward China's ultimate and inevitable reunification is unstoppable.

China and Russia have all along firmly supported each other on issues bearing on our respective core interests or major concerns. Russia has reiterated on many occasions that it strictly adheres to the one-China principle, Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory, it opposes any form of "Taiwan independence," and it firmly supports all measures of the Chinese government and the Chinese people to achieve national reunification. China highly commends Russia's consistent position.

-- We must firmly defend international fairness and justice. Now, the global deficits in peace, development, security and governance continue to widen unabated. To address these deficits, I have proposed to build a community with a shared future for mankind and put forward the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative as a way forward to steer the reform of the global governance system toward greater fairness and justice.

The world needs justice, not hegemonism. History and reality have proven that to meet global challenges, it is important to uphold the vision of global governance featuring extensive consultation and joint contribution for shared benefit. It is also important to choose dialogue over confrontation, build partnerships over alliances, and pursue win-win cooperation over zero-sum games. It is equally important to practice true multilateralism, accommodate the legitimate concerns of all parties, and safeguard international norms and order. We firmly believe that people around the world will choose to stand on the right side of history and the side of fairness and justice.

China and Russia are both major countries with significant influence in the world. The two nations are constructive forces for maintaining global strategic stability and for improving global governance. Our bilateral relationship is founded upon a clear historical logic, sustained by strong internal drive, and rooted in profound cultural heritage. Our relationship is neither directed against nor swayed by any third party. Together we must foil all schemes to disrupt or undermine our bonds of amity and trust, and we must not be baffled by transient matters or unsettled by formidable challenges. We must leverage the certainty and resilience of our partnership of strategic coordination to jointly accelerate the shift toward a multipolar world and build a community with a shared future for mankind.

China and Russia are both great nations with splendid civilizations. The Chinese and Russian peoples are both great peoples defined by heroic legacies. Eighty years ago, our peoples won the anti-fascist war through heroic struggles. Eight decades later today, we must take all necessary measures to resolutely safeguard our sovereignty, security, and development interests. We should be guardians of historical memory, partners in national development and rejuvenation, and champions of global fairness and justice, and work together to forge a brighter future for humanity.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
Debaroti Adhikary

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Khushi Keswani

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Operation Sindoor unlikely to hit Indias international trade; impact on equities may be short-lived, say experts

Paras Bisht

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Radico Khaitan, Piccadily Agro, other liquor stocks fall up to 4% over India-UK FTA

Paras Bisht

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
SAT rules activities of BSE subsidiary cannot be attributed to BSE as a violation

Brajesh Kumar

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Stocks to Watch Today: BSE, NLC India, GMDC, GP Petroleums, HPCL, Godrej Consumer, KEI Industries, Paytm, Mahanagar Gas in focus on 7 May

Sunil Matkar

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
This is an AI-assisted live blog with updates sourced from multiple news outlets and agencies

Disclaimer This is an AI-assisted live blog with updates sourced from multiple news outlets and agencies

Disclaimer This is an AI-assisted live blog with updates sourced from multiple news outlets and agencies

Disclaimer This is an AI-assisted live blog with updates sourced from multiple news outlets and agencies Disclaimer

Alpha Desk

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Top gainers and losers: Stocks that moved the most on May 7

Khushi Keswani

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Abhinav Kaul

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Studying overseas? Heres how to manage and repay your education loan wisely

Hiral Thanawala

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Shipping lines likely to remap Karachi port direct calls, take transhipment route for Pakistani cargo following India ban

Yaruqhullah Khan

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Starlink gets nod for satellite internet services in India, LoI issued by DoT: Sources

Danish Khan is the editor of Technology and Telecom. He was previously with the Economic Times and has tracked the sector for 14 years.

Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day

Aishwarya Dabhade

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day

Debangana Ghosh

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Why India targeted Muridke and Bahawalpur, two key terror hubs of Pakistan

Priyansh Verma

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Act of war: Pakistan vows retaliation after Indias strikes on terror sites in Pakistan, PoK

101Reporters

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Beware! These fake handles are behind Pakistan's misinformation campaign after Operation Sindoor

Arindam Roy

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
'Bharat Mata Ki Jai': Rajnath Singh, UP CM Yogi, others hail Indian strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan, PoK

Abhinav Gupta

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Deblina Halder

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
HAMMER and SCALP: Weapons India used to destroy terror infrastructure in Pakistan under Operation Sindoor

Parimal Peeyush

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Siddharth Chakravorty

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Surabhi Pandey

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
In a first since 1971 war, Indias Army, Navy, Air force launch joint strikes in Pakistan: 5 things to know

Deblina Halder

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
101Reporters

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Arindam Roy

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Hemant Abhishek

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
India-Pakistan tensions hit boiling point as forces avenge Pahalgam attack: What may happen next

Armaan Bhatnagar

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
India ready to retaliate resolutely if Pakistan escalates tensions: NSA to his counterparts in several nations

Siddharth Chakravorty

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Yeeshu Yadav

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
India vs Pakistan: Comparsion of military capabilities of two nations

Priyanjali Ghose

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
'Is this your nationalism?': TMC MP speaks out amid trolling of Pahalgam victim Lt Narwal's widow

Sandeep Shrivastwa

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Multiple loud explosions in PoK as India launches strikes at nine locations under Operation Sindoor

Abhinav Gupta

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Christin Mathew Philip

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Operation Sindoor Bharat's response to brutal killing of our brothers in Pahalgam, says Amit Shah

Priyanjali Ghose

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Operation Sindoor: Full support to our forces, says Rahul Gandhi after Congress holds emergency meet

Sonalee Borgohain

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Parimal Peeyush

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Operation Sindoor: How Rafale fleet has added to India's defence might

Chhabi Kala

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Tamal Nandi

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
PM Modi chose name of 'Operation Sindoor': What's behind the symbolic message?

Priyanjali Ghose

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Pakistan defence minister Khawaja Asif says ready to 'end conflict' if India backs down

Arindam Roy

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Priyanjali Ghose

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Spicejet cancels flights to and from six cities till May 10 amid rising India-Pakistan tensions, issues advisory

Ria Kapoor

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Striking at heart of JeM, Hizbul, Lashkar: All about 9 terror targets struck by India to avenge Pahalgam

Hemant Abhishek

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Technology, intent and scale: How Operation Sindoor is different from Balakot, Uri attacks

Priyanjali Ghose

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
'They erased our vermilion': Widows of Pahalgam victims hail Operation Sindoor - 'The name itself brought tears to my eyes'

Sandeep Shrivastwa

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Pragya Trivedi

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Abhinav Gupta

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Armaan Bhatnagar

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Who is Col Sofiya Qureshi? Indian Army officer who gave details of Operation Sindoor during media briefing

Chhabi Kala

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Who is Vyomika Singh? IAF Wing Commander who briefed media on Operation Sindoor

Chhabi Kala

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Of sindoor & women in uniform: India carries out Pahalgam justice with two powerful messages

Priyanjali Ghose

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Arindam Goswami is a software professional and a Research Scholar at The Takshashila Institution. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.

Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day

Namrata Agarwal

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Operation Sindoor: Why it is different from earlier strikes against Pakistan

Sanjiv Shankaran is Editor - Opinions, Editorials, Features at Moneycontrol. (Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication.)

Namrata Agarwal

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Sweta Goswami

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
The family of Amritpal Singh, a 23-year-old farmer from Khaire ke Uttar village in Punjabs Ferozepur district, is pleading for urgent government intervention after he accidentally crossed the India-Pakistan border and ended up in Pakistani police custody.



Amritpal, who is married and has a three-month-old daughter, went missing on June 21 while tending to his farmland, located beyond the border fencing but within Indian territory under Border Security Force (BSF) supervision.



Missed gate closing, footprints spotted heading into Pakistan



According to his family, Amritpal had gone to the field around noon and was expected to return before the BSFs designated gate closing time of 5 pm. When he failed to return, BSF personnel initiated a search and noticed human footprints leading toward the Pakistani side, raising the possibility of an inadvertent border crossing.



Despite multiple flag meetings with Pakistani Rangers, there was initial denial of any sightings. However, on June 27, the Pakistani side officially confirmed that Amritpal was in the custody of local police.



Officials visit family, Mann govt in touch with Centre



On Saturday, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (Guru Har Sahai) Udaydeep Singh Sidhu and other officials visited Amritpals residence. They informed the family that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann is aware of the situation and the state government is in communication with the Ministry of External Affairs to secure Amritpals return.



Amritpals father Jugraj Singh has appealed to district officials and the Centre to escalate the matter with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Our only request is that our son be brought back home safely, he said.



Farmers and the fragile zero line



Amritpal is among hundreds of farmers in Punjabs border belt who cultivate land situated between the barbed wire fence and the international border, an area often referred to as the zero line. Access to these fields is permitted during daylight hours (typically 8 am to 5 pm) and under strict BSF surveillance.



During the summer cropping season, farmers from districts like Fazilka, Ferozepur, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, Amritsar, and Tarn Taran cross the fencing daily through designated gates to reach their land.



Amritpal had taken his motorbike to the fields that afternoon. The BSF even reopened the frisking gate before dusk, hoping he might have returned late, but there was no sign of him.



Family awaits Centres action



With Pakistan confirming his custody, the focus now shifts to diplomatic efforts. The family is holding out hope that the Union External Affairs Ministry will act swiftly to secure Amritpals safe return.
'Cried a lot on hearing the name of operation': Asavari Jagdale who lost father in Pahalgam attack

Ankita Sengupta

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
'One nation...together we stand': Anand Mahindra reacts to Operation Sindoor days after Pahalgam attack

Shubhi Mishra

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Operation Sindoor ignites surge in Google searches across Pakistan: What people wanted to know

Shubhi Mishra

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Ankita Sengupta

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Shubhi Mishra

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
UP farmer finds his account credited with 36-digit amount. For scale, Elon is worth 14-digit figure

Ankita Sengupta

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
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

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Neither war nor asteroid strikes  this is how Earth will meet its slow death, reveals NASA

Sheetal Kumari

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Several 'minimoons' quietly circling Earth could be chunks of the Moon

Sheetal Kumari

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
MC Tech Desk Read the latest and trending tech newsstay updated on AI, gadgets, cybersecurity, software updates, smartphones, blockchain, space tech, and the future of innovation.

Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day

Ankita Chakravarti

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Google I/O 2025: Schedule, Android 16, major AI announcements, and all that you need to know

Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day

Aabhas Sharma

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day

Aihik Sur

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Microsoft did horrible things to Slack: Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff warns OpenAI could be next

MC Tech Desk Read the latest and trending tech newsstay updated on AI, gadgets, cybersecurity, software updates, smartphones, blockchain, space tech, and the future of innovation.

Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day

Ankita Chakravarti

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Operation Sindoor: Indian govt steps up fight against misinformation, over 1,000 posts flagged daily since Pahalgam attack

Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day

Aihik Sur

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Xiaomi Mix 5 could debut soon with full-screen design: All the details

Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day

Ankita Chakravarti

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Mana Village: The First Indian Village at the Himalayan Edge

Priyanka Roshan With over eight years in multimedia journalism, is passionate about storytellingboth visual and textualacross travel, jobs, business, markets, politics, and daily news. From crafting engaging articles to producing compelling videos, she blends creativity with strategy to bring stories to life. With a strong foundation in SEO, and video production she ensures content not only informs but also resonates with audiences.

Priyanka Roshan

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Ria Kapoor

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Israel backs India's 'right to defence', US, UK, Russia, UAE and China call for de-escalation: How world reacted to Operation Sindoor

Pragya Trivedi

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Poland rethinks its security future as Trump undermines US commitments to Europe

Manjiri Patil

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Manjiri Patil

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
UK says it stands ready to support India and Pakistan to move towards dialogue and de-escalation

Sonalee Borgohain

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Chinas central bank cuts housing provident fund loaning rates to help stabilize property market

Global Times) 16:42, May 07, 2025

China's monetary authorities on Wednesday introduced a set of new measures to strengthen the ongoing stabilization of the real estate sector, as China's property market shows more signs of recovery amid rising transactions this year.

Pan Gongsheng, governor of the People's Bank of China (PBC), the central bank, announced at a press conference in Beijing on Wednesday a 0.25-percentage-point cut in individual housing provident fund loan rates. The rate for first-home loans of more than five years will be lowered from 2.85 percent to 2.6 percent. Rates for other maturities will be adjusted accordingly.

"This policy adjustment is expected to save residents over 20 billion yuan ($2.77 billion) on individual housing provident fund loans annually, which will help shore up housing market demand, stabilize the real estate market, and reverse its decline," Pan said.

In addition, Li Yunze, head of the National Financial Regulatory Administration, said at the same event that the authorities will accelerate the roll-out of a financial system aligned with the new development model for the real estate sector, in order to further consolidate the market's stabilization trend.

In March, China's home prices rose in more cities compared with the previous month, as real estate transactions picked up, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) released on April 16. The figures add to growing evidence that the real estate sector is stabilizing, thanks to the government's stimulus policies announced in recent months aimed at supporting developers and boosting market morale, Xinhua News Agency reported.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
By Office of Development | May 7, 2025

Pictured from left to right: Dr. Bob Jackson, Mike Vincek, Dr. Tina Bernot and Dr. David Durr

MURRAY, Ky.  The Murray State University Foundation, Inc. has announced one of the most generous estate gifts in the Universitys history through a bequest from the late Dr. Brinda Smith. The gift, topping over $1 million, will provide tremendous support in three different areas: scholarships for students majoring in elementary education, health and physical education, or political science; scholarships for students majoring in special education or speech language pathology; and support for Pogue Library and its programs and facility needs.

Dr. Brinda Smiths connection with Murray State ran deep throughout her life first as a student, then as a faculty member, finally as a long-time and generous supporter. Born in Calloway County Kentucky, she graduated from Murray State in 1954 with a double major in physical education and library science, and then went on to earn her masters degree from Louisiana State University and her doctorate from the University of Southern Mississippi. Starting in 1964, Smith served as a faculty member in the Murray State College of Education. Later in her career, she continued to provide many years of leadership to the University as a member of the Murray State University Foundation Board of Trustees.

In the early 1990s, she established the Smith-Johnson Memorial Scholarship as a tribute to her mother, Mrs. Mary Johnson Smith, and aunt, Dr. Mayrell Johnson, who were both also proud Murray State alumni. After graduating from Murray Normal School, Mrs. Mary Johnson Smith went on to have a 42-year career as a teacher. Dr. Mayrell Johnson, after graduating from Murray State in 1931, enjoyed an impressive career in political science and law, including time as a faculty member at Murray State, instructor in the Murray Aeronautics Program, and service with the U.S. Navy, where she was the first woman to be issued flight orders. On top of the generous contributions that Dr. Smith made to this scholarship fund during her lifetime, the recent estate gift adds significant new support, benefitting countless students in elementary education, health and physical education, and political science for years to come.

In addition to support for the Smith-Johnson Memorial Scholarship, Dr. Smiths estate gift also establishes two new endowed funds: the Elizabeth (Betty) Smith Memorial Endowment, in memory of her sister, to provide scholarships for students majoring in special education and speech language pathology, and the Brinda Smith Library Endowment to support Pogue Library and its project and program needs. Dr. Smith had the honor of having the Smith-Johnson History and Genealogy Room in the Pogue Library named after the three women of the Smith-Johnson families who had lifelong ties to Murray State.

After her teaching career at Murray State, Dr. Smith moved to Florida and served on the faculties of Florida International University and the University of Miami. While in Florida, she began a second and very successful career in finance, working as a principal broker and financial analyst for 20 years.

After Brindas death in 2023, her family wanted to honor her deep ties to Murray State. Her cousin and the executor of her estate, Mike Vincek, directed the recent gift of over $1 million to Murray State University.

Mike says, Dr. Smiths dedication and devotion to the University ran deeply. As an alumnus, a former staff member and having served on the board of trustees, she valued Murray State and the Calloway County community in the highest regards. Her wishes were to give back.

The impact of this support is far reaching. Dr. David Whaley, dean of the College of Education and Human Services said, This generous estate gift will do so much for Murray State University. In particular, I think about the teacher shortage we are facing in Kentucky and beyond. These scholarships will help provide financial support and more access to college students who want to pursue teacher education. These scholarships lift the burden of educational expenses, allowing teachers in training to focus on learning and growing.

After learning about Dr. Smith and her family and the generous gifts they have made to Murray State, three words immediately came to mind: empower, impact and service, said Stephanie Schaaf, chair of the Center for Communication Disorders. Our Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) students will be empowered by this support from a former faculty member of the College of Education and Human Services; this scholarship will help our students in a profession that allows them to make a profound impact on someone's life, as Dr. Smith and her family have done for many years; and as our Murray State SLP graduates continue to give back through service in their profession, they emulate Dr. Smith, and her legacy lives on.

Dean of University Libraries, Cris Ferguson shared, With family roots connected to Dr. Rainey T. Wells, the University's founder, Dr. Smiths appreciation for genealogy and Murray State University led the family to extend more support to Pogue Library and the Genealogical Collection. We are grateful to Brinda Smith and her family. Brinda's legacy helps preserve the rich history of the Jackson Purchase region and ensure access to genealogical materials for researchers near and far for years to come.

For more information on how to support Murray State Universitys College of Education and Human Services and its students or Murray State University Libraries, contact Jenni Todd, director of development, at 270-809-3026 or jtodd14@murraystate.edu.
Indias Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri holds a press briefing following India's military strikes on Pakistan, in New Delhi, India, May 7, 2025.

REUTERS
FEATURE  Upholding birthright citizenship is essential to the welfare of the CNMI
Sonora Rite Aid store on corner of the Mono Way and Greenley Road intersection View Photo

Sonora, CA Philadelphia-based Rite Aid is closing all its stores nationwide, including right here in the Mother Lode, and customers can expect their local store to close or change ownership in the next few months.

The companys website states that there are 1,245 stores in 15 states, with its heaviest presence in New York, Pennsylvania, and California, which has 347 locations. Two stores are located in the Mother Lode: one in Sonora at 855 Mono Way in Tuolumne County and the other in Angels Camp at 230 South Main Street in Calaveras County. Clarke Broadcasting contacted both stores; an unidentified Angels Camp employee would not disclose how many are on staff and advised us to call the corporate office. An unidentified Sonora employee informed us that there are around 20 staff members and also suggested we call the corporate office. Company officials did not respond to our emails or phone calls at the time of this posting.

Matt Schroeder, Chief Executive Officer of Rite Aid, stated, For more than 60 years, Rite Aid has been a proud provider of pharmacy services and products to our loyal customers. While we have continued to face financial challenges, intensified by the rapidly evolving retail and healthcare landscapes in which we operate, we are encouraged by meaningful interest from a number of potential national and regional strategic acquirers. As we move forward, our key priorities are ensuring uninterrupted pharmacy services for our customers and preserving jobs for as many associates as possible. He continued, I will be forever grateful to our thousands of associates for their commitment to Rite Aid and its mission, and I thank our entire teamfrom store associates to corporate employeesfor their dedication to our customers and our company. With their support, we have played a critical role in supporting the healthcare needs of countless Americans across the communities that we are honored to serve.

The company shared that it plans to sell customer prescription files, but there is no guarantee that those files will be near the closing store location. It will also sell inventory and other assets while closing distribution centers and selling off store locations. Currently, stores will remain open, according to the company, but no new inventory will be purchased, so customers may find shelves empty in the coming weeks. Customers can still fill prescriptions, get immunizations, and shop in the stores or online until the sales are completed. However, customer rewards points for purchases have been stopped, and gift cards or accepted returns and exchanges will end starting next month.

After closing stores in 2023, Rite Aid filed for its first bankruptcy. The company stated in a letter to vendors that it has faced several financial challenges that have grown more intense, and its only viable path forward is a return to Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings. Rite Aid and its rivals have had to contend with declining prescription income, a rise in theft, court settlements involving opioid prescriptions, and consumers moving to budget stores and internet shopping.
California State Capitol Building View Photo

Sacramento, CA  State lawmakers in Sacramento have been at odds over a bill passed last week that increased penalties for those convicted of soliciting a minor for sex crimes. It was amended, though, late so that the penalties are not as stiff (misdemeanor instead of a felony) if the minors impacted are 16 or 17 years old. This led to an outcry from some lawmakers, including Mother Lode Republican Assemblyman David Tangipa.

He said in a press conference afterwards, Every minor should be treated the same. Thats all we wanted, to just have the same standard for all children. Thats how it should be for child sex trafficking.

In addition to complaints from Republicans, one of the bills authors, Democrat Maggy Krell, and Governor Gavin Newsom, also voiced concerns about the revision.

Assembly Democratic leaders announced late yesterday a reversal of course so that crimes against 16-17-year-olds will also face the stiffer penalties. It came following negotiations between Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, Public Safety Committee Chair Nick Schultz, and Assemblymember Krell.

Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher says in a statement, I want to thank the people of California for helping us stand up to the radical Left and deliver another victory for public safety. I also applaud Assemblymember Maggy Krell for her courageous stand and her willingness to push the envelope within her caucus.
I was listening to the journalist Ryan Grim of Drop Site News last week as he talked briefly about his wifes ongoing cancer treatment. His short gloss was directly on point, and it motivated me to dig deep in my archives on the history of research on breast cancer and how one never knows what scientific knowledge is useful until it is. [1] Grims message, that current cuts enacted across the board will severely damage health in the United States, is especially important for our time.

Cancer has been understood as the unregulated growth of tumors and their spread (metastasis) for a long time. Theodor Boveri wrote Concerning the Origin of Malignant Tumors in 1914:

Theodor Boveris Zur Frage der Entstehung maligner Tumoren has had a momentous impact on cancer research. In it he argues that malignancy arises as a consequence of chromosomal abnormalities and that multiplication is an inherent property of cells. With astonishing prescience, Boveri predicts in this monograph the existence of tumor suppressor mechanisms and is perhaps the first to suggest that hereditary factors (genes) are linearly arranged along chromosomes.

If you find the CHSL Press edition in your library or for a few dollars at the used bookstore, you wont be disappointed. Nevertheless, until the 1970s and 1980s cancer was largely a molecular mystery. Now we know that the first step in tumor progression is usually the loss of control of cell division that produces the primary tumor. Subsequent mutations then allow the cancer cell to move to other places in the body and form secondary tumors (metastases). These are hard to treat and are usually what kills the patient, slowly or rapidly depending on the cancer. In my reading, the best single source on cancer as a disease remains The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer (2010) by Siddhartha Mukherjee.

Although this is not generally understood, the molecular bases of cancer were established in research that did not focus directly on cancer. Rather, biological scientists goals were to understand fundamental processes such as the control of cell division and cell proliferation, the control of gene expression, the regulation of metabolism, and mechanisms of cell motility. Most Cancer-causing oncogenes were originally associated with viruses that can cause cancer. Upon further research it was discovered that viral oncogenes are normal genes that were taken up by the virus and then expressed in infected cells, thereby causing cancer. The normal gene of a cognate oncogene may be called a proto-oncogene, but the proto is often left off in current usage. Mutations in these genes, separate from infection by viruses carrying an oncogene, lead to cancer when the mutant protein is expressed.

Oncogenes have become a subject in their own right, and targeting the function of oncogenes has become a very productive focus of clinical oncology. HER-2/neu is the specific example for today. But before we get to that, the basic research must come first. In 1962, Stanley Cohen of Vanderbilt University published a deceptively arcane study on the isolation of a protein that could accelerate incisor eruption and eyelid opening in newborn mice. The original name for the protein was tooth-lid factor. The protein was eventually named epidermal growth factor (EGF) and led Cohen to develop a new area of cell biology for which he and Rita Levi-Montalcini, who discovered a similar protein she named nerve growth factor (NGF), were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1986.

EGF and other growth factors function by binding to their specific receptor on the target cell and direct the cell to proliferate through a series of evolutionarily conserved mechanisms inside the cell. For our purposes: EGF + EGFR  Active EGFR  growth. When this pathway remains on when it should be off, a result is cancer. Several EGF genes are encoded in the human genome. The first human EGFR was called HER-1, for h uman E GFR- 1 . Similarly, the current name of EGFR-2 is HER-2 (also called neu because it was also identified in brain cancer). When the gene for HER-2 was sequenced it was found to be essentially the same as v-ErbB (i.e., viral oncogene B from avian erythroblastosis virus (AEV), a retrovirus that causes leukemia in chickens). Thus, v-ErbB is the viral oncogene that leads to cancer in chickens when they are infected with avian erythroblastosis virus (AEV) that previously grabbed the chicken EGF2 gene during an infection. HER-2 is the homologous proto-oncogene that causes cancer in humans when its expression is altered.

The importance of HER-2 for cancer in humans was recognized in the late 1980s when it was found that HER-2 is strongly associated with breast and ovarian cancer. I presented the paper Studies of the HER-2/neu Proto-oncogene in Human Breast and Ovarian Cancer in a departmental seminar shortly after it was published in 1989 and have followed this research ever since. It is a remarkable story. Other research groups have done much research on HER-2, but as I remind my medical students, this work was done by individual scientists before it appeared in their textbooks. Dennis J. Slamon of UCLA has been a leader in the field. From the Abstract:

Carcinoma of the breast and ovary account for one-third of all cancers occurring in women and together are responsible for approximately one-quarter of cancer-related deaths in females. The HER-2/neu proto-oncogene is amplified in 25 to 30 percent of human primary breast cancers and this alteration is associated with disease behavior. In this report, several similarities were found in the biology of HER-2/neu in breast and ovarian cancer, including a similar incidence of amplification, a direct correlation between amplification and over-expression, evidence of tumors in which overexpression occurs without amplification, and the association between gene alteration and clinical outcomeThe data presented further support the concept that the HER-2/neu gene may be involved in the pathogenesis of some human cancers. (emphasis added)

At the time, this made perfect sense:

HER-2 is an EGF receptor on the surface of breast and ovary cells, among others, where it controls proliferation of these cells.

When HER-2 is amplified the cells are induced to proliferate in an unregulated manner.

Dysregulated cell growth/proliferation leads to cancer.

The identification of the oncogene v-ErbB with HER-2 led directly to a potential therapy for breast cancer that has worked very well. It took nearly twenty years, but Herceptin, i.e., the monoclonal antibody trastuzumab that targets HER-2 on the cell surface, was one of the first targeted chemotherapies. Prior to the advent of targeted chemotherapy, the goal of chemotherapy was to kill cancer cells faster than normal cells. This works well now for many cancers, but targeted therapy has revolutionized clinical oncology.

Herceptin (Genentech) has been a lifesaver for many cancer patients, and this happened as a direct consequence of basic research on something as outwardly unremarkable as tooth eruption and eyelid opening in neonatal mice. This research was, of course, funded by the National Institutes of Health and other agencies. A few key points include:

The oncogenic potential of HER-2 was indicated by its identity with v-ErbB, an oncogene in a chicken retrovirus (which is where the first oncogene identified from Rous Sarcoma Virus (RSV). What happens, or doesnt, in one vertebrate probably also applies to another. [2] As noted here before, this apparently has been forgotten regarding the problematic concept of durable immunity to coronaviruses such as Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV) in chickens and SARS-CoV-2 in humans.

The function of the EGF receptor (HER-1, HER-2): Without going into molecular detail, EGFR must dimerize to transmit its signal into the cell and tell the cell to grow. This requirement was determined in research over many years in many laboratories. Herceptin does not prevent soluble EGF from binding to its receptor but it does interfere with dimerization, and therefore the signal to grow is disrupted. Another antibody developed later, Pertuzamab, prevents HER-2 from dimerizing with its preferred partner HER-3 and works in a complementary manner.

Thoroughly basic biomedical research on signal transduction through EGFR-like molecules revealed that receptor signaling is downregulated when the cell engulfs the active receptor, thereby removing it from the cell surface. When a conjugate of Herceptin and the cytotoxic drug emtansine is internalized, the drug becomes a magic bullet that kills the cancer cell after preventing it from dividing. Two hits are better than one.

Based on studies of many cancers, Herceptin can be used to treat several HER2-positive cancers, including metastatic breast cancer and gastric, lung, and colorectal cancer.

Herceptin/trastuzumab is on the World Health Organization List of Essential Medicines, as it should be.

The story of HER-2, breast cancer, and Herceptin illustrates the truth that basic scientific research, if it is to be effective, cannot be prescribed, whatever the current leadership of American science seems to think. The corollary is that basic research leads to clinical relevance in unexpected ways. Would Herceptin have been developed if Stanley Cohen had not discovered what was eventually known as EGF, epidermal growth factor? Probably, but perhaps much later than necessary, for millions of cancer patients and their families. But maybe not. Or perhaps the trajectory of the alternative path might have pointed in a different direction without the same significance.

Would Biotech and Big Pharma have developed Herceptin without the initial research on HER-2/neu? Certainly not, for two reasons: (1) In the first place, the basic knowledge would not have existed, and (2) Big Pharma depends on publicly funded science to provide the foundation for their production and marketing of virtually all their products.

The current attack on basic science during Trump v2.0 has garnered some sympathy, primarily because our scientific leadership has lost the plot at the very visible margin. Having been an insider of sorts for more than forty years, I have seen the good and the bad of science funding at NIH and NSF. But the solution is not to tear down the edifice.

One related example from the case of HER-2 and breast cancer stands out. The original reports of the connection were controversial. This was dispelled in one of the most important follow-up papers, Detection and quantitation of HER-2/neu gene amplification in human breast cancer archival material using fluorescence in situ hybridization (1996). From the Abstract:

Amplification and overexpression of the HER-2/neu gene occurs in 25-30% of human breast cancers. This genetic alteration is associated with a poor clinical prognosis in women with either node negative or node positive breast cancers. The initial studies testing this association were somewhat controversial and this controversy was due in large part to significant heterogeneity in both the methods and/or reagents used in testing archival material for the presence of the alterationFluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) represents the newest methodologic approach for testing for this genetic alteration. In this study, FISH is compared to Southern, Northern and Western blot analyses as well as immunohistochemistry in a large cohort of archival human breast cancer specimens. FISH was found to be superior to all other methodologies tested in assessing formalin fixed, paraffin embedded material for HER-2/neu amplification. The results from this study also confirm that overexpression of HER-2/neu rarely occurs in the absence of gene amplification in breast cancer (approximately 3% of cases). This method of analysis is rapid, reproducible and extremely reliable in detecting presence of HER-2/neu gene amplification and should have clinical utility.

It most certainly did have clinical utility. And the key to this success is something very prosaic that has nevertheless become a lightning rod: Indirect costs. Without adequate institutional support that is funded by indirect costs, the large cohort of human breast cancer specimens essential to confirming the HER-2/breast cancer connection would probably not have been available. These were saved in the tissue archive because indirect costs/overhead made this possible. Every biomedical research lab as sample archive of some kind and much effort goes into maintaining this, which is large laboratories can be a fulltime job.

Biological samples are often stored in cabinets and/or ultracold freezers that are expensive to buy and maintain. This cannot be done using the current research budget, but current research is always dependent on the foundation that includes samples from previous research. These samples also contribute to research in other laboratories across the world. When I directed my own laboratory, requests for samples were a constant thing, and they were always granted. Could the HER-amplification hypothesis have been confirmed without this archive? Yes, but with a delay measured in years and increased morbidity and mortality due to breast cancer in which HER-2 is amplified.

The National Science Foundation has implemented a standard 15% indirect cost rate effective May 5, 2025. Previous rates were in the 45-55% range in my experience. One of the justifications for this cut is that private funding agencies restrict indirect costs to 10-15%, so why is the government paying more?. This is true. It is also true that, as I have said too many times lately, in the past private funding agencies such as the American Heart Association and American Cancer Society have not approved grants unless the applicant could show evidence of substantial other support for the research. This support would be in the form of grants from NIH or NSF or institutional start-up support for a new academic scientist (soon to be extinct). AHA/ACS awards are icing on the cake, not the cake. If this change at NSF is permanent, research institutions will necessarily reduce support and direct research costs will then make up the difference to the extent this is possible. Research output will decline precipitously. That seems to be the goal.

The ramifications of this reversal cannot be predicted but they are predictable. The connections between v-ErbB, EGF, HER-2, and breast cancer were an unknown unknown sixty years ago. Similar connections will be missed as the American research community declines in numbers and strength and reach. American science can be improved, however, if that is a goal. One example can be found in the career of Stanley Cohen, who discovered EGF. He maintained a small laboratory and was immersed in the actual work. The results were spectacular.

Most of the scientists who taught me did the same (albeit without the Nobel Prize). Studies have demonstrated that diminishing returns, such as they can be measured by publications, set in with the second NIH grant (very few scientists receive more than on NSF grant at a time). This has been my experience observing labs that grow for the sake of growth. Spreading the wealth, so to speak, would work, and decentralization would lessen the influence of an erstwhile leadership with other ideas. In any case, fifty percent cuts in total support with the remainder devoted to Administration priorities, whatever they are, will be the death of American science as it is practiced while leaving no prospect for rebuilding an American science as it should be practiced.

Notes

[1] As always in this series, following the philosopher Nancy Cartwright, the goal of scientific research is not to produce truth. The goal is to produce useful knowledge in an open-ended fashion. Thus, old or unrelated results are often useful in unexpected contexts, such as the connection between viral oncogenes and normal genes that are mutated in cancer as discussed here.

[2] Theodosius Dobzhansky: Nothing in biology makes sense except in the light of evolution. The paper at the link is a rabbit hole I never expected to encounter. But in my view the meaning of this most famous quotation is this: Biological structure and function are explained by biological evolution. For example, my research has shown that the basic structural components responsible for eukaryotic cell motility are more than 1.7 billion years old. Humans have several proteins essential for cell motility that are found in the extant representative of the earliest branch on the evolutionary bush that includes humans. That cancer in birds and mammals is caused by similar mechanisms follows if the former is true.
Dear patient readers,

You get a Links double dose due to a coordination issue and an excess of diligence by your Links providers. This has never happened before, so enjoy.

I left both stand rather than sorting this out. You will note the comparatively few duplicates, showing how overloaded the current news environment is.

The Sex Lives Of Common Vegetables Noema

The second birth of JMW Turner New Statesman (Anthony L)

#COVID-19/Pandemics

Climate/Environment

China?

Israel-Pakistan Row

O Canada

South of the Border

European Disunion

AfD ban debate: We must fight the causes, not the symptoms Nachdenkseiten via machine translation. Micael T: Thats a cute thought but in the world of symbol politics, the cause is to be ignored because addressing that would require competence and a will to make things better. Would we have called this corruption if it were in Colombia? LinkedIn (Micael T). On the privatization os schools in Sweden.

Old Blighty

Israel v. the Resistance

New Not-So-Cold War

Big Brother is Watching You Watch

Imperial Collapse Watch

The Political Influence of Social Media and the Digital Fragmentation of the West Valdai Club (Micael T)

Trump 2.0

Tariffs

Immigration

Our No Longer Free Press

Mr. Market is Moody

Antitrust

New Bill Would Force Apple, Google To Open App Store Ecosystems The Verge

AI

The Bezzle

Guillotine Watch

Jeff Bezoss Big Space Lie: What a Millionaires Space Selfie Really Costs Rebelion via machine translation. Micael T: CO2 compensation by just leaving them out/up there given that on the planet the millionaires are the main emitters of CO2 (private jets etc.)?

Class Warfare

Antidote du jour. John U: A herd of Capybaras on the banks of the Tambopata River, Peru.

And a bonus:

This cat adopted neighbors puppies without consent of their mom pic.twitter.com/gbFtZ5GBNJ  contents that ll heal your depression  (@catshealdeprsn) May 6, 2025

A second bonus:

internet vs real life pic.twitter.com/XUqFrplcLw  non aesthetic things (@PicturesFoIder) May 6, 2025

And a third:
Yves here. This post describes one predictive policing experiment gone awry.and then makes positive noises about one that has not yet started, merely based on it having better principles. Corporate America is awash with lofty value statements not even remotely met in practice.

One finds it hard to imagine how predictive policing could satisfy the requirement of presumption of innocence, or how any warrants issued using predictive policing tools could meet Fourth Amendment standards, which bar unreasonable searches and seizures. New York Citys stop and frisk was arguably an early implementation of predictive policing, and was found to be unconstitutional, despite stoping and frisking being permissible if there is a reasonable suspicion of criminal activity. As summarized by the Leadership Council Education Fund:

In 1999, Blacks and Latinos made up 50 percent of New Yorks population, but accounted for 84 percent of the citys stops. Those statistics have changed little in more than a decade. According to the courts opinion, between 2004 and 2012, the New York Police Department made 4.4 million stops under the citywide policy. More than 80 percent of those stopped were Black and Latino people. The likelihood a stop of an African-American New Yorker yielded a weapon was half that of White New Yorkers stopped, and the likelihood of finding contraband on an African American who was stopped was one-third that of White New Yorkers stopped.

Hopefully lawyers in the commentariat will pipe up. But it seems there are good odds of the continuation of the trend towards code as law, where legal requirements are fit to the Procrustean bed of software implementations. That was rife during the foreclosure crisis, where many judges were simply not willing to consider that the new tech of mortgage securitization did not fit will with dirt law foreclosure requirements. They chose in many cases to allow foreclosures that rode roughshod over real estate precedents, because they did not want the borrower to get a free house. Keep in mind that that was not what borrowers wanted, but a mortgage modification, which most lenders in the bank kept the loan world would have provided, but mortgage servicers were not in the business of making.

By Maria Lungu, Postdoctoral Researcher of Law and Public Administration, University of Virginia. Originally published at The Conversation

The 2002 sci-fi thriller Minority Report depicted a dystopian future where a specialized police unit was tasked with arresting people for crimes they had not yet committed. Directed by Steven Spielberg and based on a short story by Philip K. Dick, the drama revolved around PreCrime  a system informed by a trio of psychics, or precogs, who anticipated future homicides, allowing police officers to intervene and prevent would-be assailants from claiming their targets lives.

The film probes at hefty ethical questions: How can someone be guilty of a crime they havent yet committed? And what happens when the system gets it wrong?

While there is no such thing as an all-seeing precog, key components of the future that Minority Report envisioned have become reality even faster than its creators imagined. For more than a decade, police departments across the globe have been using data-driven systems geared toward predicting when and where crimes might occur and who might commit them.

Far from an abstract or futuristic conceit, predictive policing is a reality. And market analysts are predicting a boom for the technology.

Given the challenges in using predictive machine learning effectively and fairly, predictive policing raises significant ethical concerns. Absent technological fixes on the horizon, there is an approach to addressing these concerns: Treat government use of the technology as a matter of democratic accountability.

Troubling History

Predictive policing relies on artificial intelligence and data analytics to anticipate potential criminal activity before it happens. It can involve analyzing large datasets drawn from crime reports, arrest records and social or geographic information to identify patterns and forecast where crimes might occur or who may be involved.
Yves here. This post presents estimates of the damage to US, China, and the rest of the world for various tariff war scenarios. The picture is not pretty.

By Francesco Paolo Conteduca, Michele Mancini, and Alessandro Borin. Originally published at VoxEU

Sweeping US tariff increases in 2025 are upending global trade. This column draws on new data and simulations to show that, even with partial suspensions, the measures are set to trigger sharp contractions in trade, significant welfare losses (especially for the US), and major disruptions to global supply chains. Direct trade between the US and China may collapse, while indirect exports of Chinese products to the US will be far less affected. The tariff escalation could also distort production patterns and drive a sharp reconfiguration of global value chains, resulting in a less efficient and more opaque trade system.

On 2 April 2025, following tariff increases in February and March on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China covering steel and aluminium and cars, the US announced sweeping so-called reciprocal tariffs affecting most of its trade partners. The structure of these new measures, rather than being driven by actual discrepancies between US tariffs and those imposed by trade partners, is instead guided by the ratio of trade deficits to imports, with a minimum increase of 10 percentage points  far exceeding market expectations (Baldwin and Barba Navaretti 2025, Evenett and Fritz 2025).

Understanding the implications of these measures requires a clear view of the tariff landscape prior to President Trumps second term. Yet accurately measuring applied tariffs remains a challenge (Caliendo et al. 2023, Teti 2024). To overcome the limitations of the widely used WITS database  particularly its omission of tariffs imposed through trade disputes  we use as a starting point the 2019 CEPII MAcMap-HS6 database (Guimbard et al. 2012) and incorporate detailed data on tariff escalation between the US and China during Trumps first term from Fajgelbaum et al. (2024), as well as tariff reductions granted under Bidens term.

Crucially, the 2 April tariffs do not align with the levels that would close the gap between US import tariffs and those faced by US exports abroad, as computed using our dataset. In fact, the new tariffs are consistently higher than what would be required to achieve genuine reciprocity (Figure 1).

Figure 1 Tariff increases based on reciprocity versus the 2 April tariff increases

Source: own elaboration based on data from CEPII MAcMap-HS6, WITS, Fajgelbaum et al. (2024), CEPII BACI, and official US documents.

Notes: tariff increases based on reciprocity are obtained by taking the difference between the sector-level effective tariff rate faced by the US in foreign markets and the sector-level effective tariff rate on US imports.

Southeast Asian economies such as Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia would be among the most heavily affected. For the EU, the 2 April tariffs would raise the effective tariff rate to around 17%, up from below 2% before the beginning of Trumps second term. Chinas initial retaliation to the US announcement triggered a tit-for-tat escalation of symmetric tariff hikes, which led the two countries to reach a bilateral tariff rate of around 125%.

On 9 April, Trumps reciprocal tariffs were partially suspended for a 90-day grace period. During this window, a flat 10 percentage point increase will nevertheless apply to all trading partners  excluding Mexico, Canada, and China, which are the targets of country-specific measures. Imports of pharmaceutical goods and electronics  including semiconductors and a range of consumer products  were temporarily exempted, but sector-specific measures have already been announced and are expected to be implemented in the coming months. The exemptions also extend to many refined and raw mineral products, for which no additional tariffs have been proposed so far.

Given their magnitude  exceptionally high even by historical standards  the new tariffs are likely to have significant effects on macroeconomic aggregates, trade patterns, and the structure of global value chains (GVCs). Drawing on our own database, we construct baseline tariff levels reflecting the period before Trumps second term. From this baseline, we design three scenarios to assess the potential impact of the 2025 measures.

The first is a milder scenario involving the February and March measures, the observed tariff escalation with China, and the suspension of the reciprocal tariffs announced on 2 April. In this status quo scenario, we also include the retaliation implemented by China and Canada. This reflects the situation as of the time of writing (20 April).

The full scenario, instead, assumes no suspension of the 2 April tariffs, combined with the extension of tariffs to pharmaceuticals and electronics, as already announced. We assume that these products will face tariff increases in line with those previously imposed on steel, aluminoum, and cars  i.e. a 25 percentage point hike.

Lastly, we also evaluate the possibility that affected countries retaliate by matching US tariff increases at the sector level (full + retaliation).

Under the status quo scenario, the effective tariff rate on US imports would reach almost 30%, up from 3% before the new administration came into power (Figure 2). The tit-for-tat escalation with China alone accounts for about 17 percentage points of the total tariff increase. Under the full scenario, the effective tariff rate on US imports rises to nearly 38%. Measures on pharmaceuticals and electronics account for almost 4 percentage points, and the 2 April measures fully implemented for 8 percentage points. In the full + retaliation scenario, US trade partners retaliate by raising their own sector-level tariffs to match the US increases seen under the full scenario. As a result, the effective tariff rate faced by US exports in foreign markets climbs to 32%.

Figure 2 US effective tariff rates under the status quo and full scenarios

Source: own elaboration based on data from CEPII MAcMap-HS6, WITS, Fajgelbaum et al. (2024), CEPII BACI, and official US documents.

To quantify the economic impact of the tariff shock under the three scenarios  status quo, full, and full + retaliation  we simulate outcomes using the multi-country, multi-sector model developed by Baqaee and Farhi (2024). This model captures how trade shocks propagate through global production networks, accounting for input complementarities and nominal wage rigidities. We calibrate the model to 33 countries or regions and 18 sectors, using the most recent 2023 inter-country input-output tables from the Asian Development Bank, complemented by our detailed tariff data. Further methodological details are available in Conteduca et al. (2025) and Attinasi and Mancini (2025), where a similar approach is used to assess the effects of trade decoupling between geopolitical blocs.

Welfare declines significantly in the US  by around 2% under the status quo scenario, and by nearly double that under the full + retaliation scenario (Figure 3). In the euro area the impact is more contained, remaining below 1%. In China, welfare losses hover around 1.5% across all scenarios. This reflects the countrys exposure to significantly higher tariffs, coupled with the fact that China implements retaliatory measures in each scenario. At the global level, welfare losses reach up to 2% under the full + retaliation scenario.

Figure 3 Change in welfare (percent)

Notes: The figure plots the change in welfare across different scenarios.

Tariffs increase purely domestic output in the US (i.e. production that neither relies on foreign inputs nor serves foreign markets). However, across all scenarios this increase is not nearly enough to offset the decline in production that depends on international trade  either because it relies on imported inputs or because it serves foreign markets (Figure 4).

Figure 4 Change in US gross output, by category of gross output (percent)

Notes: The figure shows changes in gross output, broken down into three components: Domestic output refers to production that never crosses a border; NonGVC output covers production involved in traditional trade that crosses a single border; and GVC output captures production linked to global valuechain trade, crossing more than one border. These definitions follow Borin et al. (2021).

The shock leads to widespread disruption of global supply chains. Across all scenarios, output falls most sharply in sectors that are highly integrated into GVCs, notably electrical equipment and electronics, and transport equipment, where around 30% of output depends on GVCs. In contrast, sectors that are less integrated in international supply chains, such as agriculture and rubber and plastics, experience smaller declines (Figure 5).

Figure 5 Change in sector-level global gross output, by GVC intensity under the status quo scenario (percent)

Notes: The figure plots the change in sector-level gross output. GVC-related output is the share of total gross-output crossing at least two borders, from Borin et al. (2021). The results reported are for the Status quo scenario. Red dots are for sectors targeted by tariffs, while blue dots are for sectors that do not see any tariff increase.

Global trade is severely affected by the tariffs, with trade flows contracting by between 5.5% and 8.5% relative to the pre-shock economy, depending on the scenario. Trade flowing through GVCs  i.e. shipments that cross several borders before reaching consumers  shrinks by roughly 2 percentage points more than direct bilateral trade. The decline is especially steep in sectors such as transport equipment and electrical equipment and electronics, which contract by 16% and 12%, respectively, in the full + retaliation scenario.

Trade reallocation patterns are striking. US imports of goods and services from China collapse across all scenarios, falling by about 90%, as nearly all Chinese goods are subjected to prohibitive tariffs (Figure 6a). Imports from Canada and Mexico also decline significantly (by roughly 30%), while imports from the UK  largely spared by the tariff regime  experience a modest increase.

In response to the loss of access to the US market, Chinese exports will likely be redirected towards other destinations (Figure 6b). In the full + retaliation scenario, exports to the euro area and the UK increase by around 9%. The most pronounced shifts, however, are seen in Latin America and, even more so, in Canada and Mexico  countries that are geographically closer to the US and more deeply integrated into its trade networks.

Note: The figure plots the percentage change in trade flows.

While direct exports of Chinese value added to the US plummet from $410 billion to just $2 billion, indirect exports prove far more resilient, falling only from $124 billion to $84 billion. How do these products still reach the US market? Before the shock, about 23% of Chinese goods entered the US indirectly. Under the full + retaliation scenario, more than half of the Chinese value added reaches the US via Mexico, with significant shares also flowing through Asian countries (21%), particularly Korea and Vietnam (Figure 7). These detours reflect both the structure of GVCs and the tariff gradients imposed by the Trump administration. The re-routing of Chinese products could potentially be curbed through the implementation of stricter rules of origin in the US. Such regulations could, for instance, prevent the import of any product containing a specified minimum level of Chinese value added. However, these measures would likely introduce considerable inefficiencies, leading to substantially higher transaction costs and potential disruptions to well-established supply chains.

Figure 7 Share of Chinese value-added imported by the US before the shock and under the full + retaliation scenario, by exporting country

Notes: The figure plots the share of Chinese value-added imported by the US by exporting country or region, over total Chinese value-added imported by the US.

In conclusion, across all scenarios considered, the new tariffs introduced as of 2 April 2  even assuming that the grace period results in a permanent suspension of reciprocal tariffs  lead to a net global welfare loss of (-1.2%), a stronger loss for the US (-2%), and a sharp fall in trade (-5% overall), especially between the US and China (-90%). Supply chains tilt sharply away from their current geography, sacrificing efficiency and transparency while driving up the cost of designing and policing rules of origin.

Authors note: The views expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the Bank of Italy.

See original post for references
With legal changes on the horizon, we take a three-part look at the cannabis industry and re
Kristina Murray, whos gearing up to release her third LP Little Blue on Friday, knows how to gracefully move through music-industry bullshit and deal with the disillusionment that can come with making music in Nashville.

There are definitely quite a few years in the beginning, Murray tells me, where youre like, I dont know if Im cut out for this. Theres no way I can have a 401(k).

Originally from Georgia, Murray moved to Nashville in 2014 to pursue a career in music.

She fought through that early era of incessant doubt and established herself as a respected player in Nashvilles independent country scene.

[You] ultimately get to a place where you say, No, this is who I am  I am an artist and Im going to do this, and just press on regardless, says Murray. Once you get there, its the center you go back to.

Devotion to her craft has been the center Murray has been going back to over the past seven years since she self-released her 2018 album Southern Ambrosia. The record, her follow-up to 2013s Unravelin, was well-received by critics. Still, she bumped against the limitations of the strategies available to an independent artist without a lot of capital. I never had the money to promote myself, she says, or fund endless tours that lost a bunch of money.

On Little Blue, Murray writes about feeling stuck in your life and career. She spins gold out of fruitless nights in introspective songs like Has Been. The track evokes the roomy and lush arrangements of Emmylou Harris 1981 record Evangeline. Set on a neon Nashville night, the song teems with longing and expectations never met. Characters hope to transcend their realities of loneliness and stagnation. Yet Murray sings on the hook: Itll keep you awake at night / And its gonna get worse / Just give it time.

On the single Watching the World Pass Me By, Murray is hanging out in the shadows in a honky-tonk, watching others live her dreams of success. On the surface, this swampy Jerry Jeff Walker-inspired tune plays bouncy and fun. Listen one more time and youll hear the angst and sorrow. Its a classic device in country music, a genre Murray describes as a never-ending treasure chest.

Once you start down the rabbit hole, she says, it just kind of gives and gives and gives.

Each track on Little Blue is its own microcosm of country references, from Harris and Walker to Harlan Howard and Dean Dillon, whose influences as master storytellers inspire Murrays down-and-out characters in Phenix City.

Conventional wisdom has it that Nashville is a 10-year town, requiring a decade to achieve a measure of success. Im happy that Murray has stuck around longer and is looking optimistically toward whats next. After independently financing the production of Little Blue in 2023, she signed with much-loved purveyors of indie Americana Normaltown/New West for its release, which shell celebrate with a performance at East Side honky-tonk Skinny Dennis. Shes grateful for the momentum she feels on the label and cant wait to connect with listeners on tour.

The music business has broken my heart over and over again, but music has always regrounded me, says Murray.

Widening her focus beyond the music scene and its politics, Murray cultivates her relationships with nature and her loved ones. She reflects on this in the albums title track, a lullaby turned psychedelic workout that closes the album. In the first verse, she is on a depression walk; by the third, she is marveling at the little blue dot we live on. When you zoom out, suffering subsides like a wave, and gratitude for being alive is left like cowrie shells and bits of sea glass glimmering on the sand. Murray holds onto the thread that connects her to the larger world. Its another center she comes back to throughout Little Blue.

Its very special that I get to exist in the same 100-year period that George Jones existed. I get to listen to those records. Thats amazing that I get to encounter all this beautiful art and natural beauty around me, my friends and family, in this short life.
Last week, Sicilys Mt. Etna erupted with thunderous booms, as its done all spring. The same could be said of Tennessees Aetna Mountain, which undergirds John Thunder Thorntons River Gorge Ranch development near Chattanooga. The local noise is produced not by lava, but by blasting in a new quarry on the mountains flank, extracting limestone for roadbeds; by machinery paving those roads; and by the whine of construction equipment building the first few dozen of as many as 2,500 projected homes in the mountaintop development. And none of thats to mention a 13,000-square-foot restaurant, scheduled to open this summer.

Thorntons company Thunder Air filed a lawsuit against two local residents who claimed the mountain was a Swiss cheese of mines. The company lost the suit last year, with a judge awarding the residents more than $200,000 in attorneys fees. While the entire development sits above 150 years worth of mining, the developer insists the surface is safe for building because of thick layers of sandstone between homesites and old mines. (Some lots cover former strip mines, active on the surface as recently as the 1980s. The developer removed from sale a few lots found to contain strip-mining spoils.)

+6 Thunder on the Mountain: Do Luxury Homesites Sit Atop Environmental Catastrophe? An East Tennessee development is moving forward on what locals call a Swiss cheese of abandoned coal mines

But as the Scene reported a year ago, other problems persist for owners of the 615 lots sold to date.

Then as now, buyers await public water. In April of this year, a social media post to lot owners proclaimed, in an update purported by the sender to be directly from the developer: We will have a water supply source. They are constructing a 16-inch water main up the mountain to provide city water. One longtime area resident who requested anonymity calls the path an ugly trench up the mountainside. The route crosses rugged land that was once part of a state wildlife preserve, purchased at auction by Thornton when he assembled the first pieces of RGR.

Weve already invested over $5 million and laid over six miles worth of water lines, says Dane Bradshaw, president of Thunder Enterprises. The only problem with connecting to a water source is that the new pipeline ends at the border of Black Creek, an earlier development on the Chattanooga side of the mountain. Until this real estate competitor gives Thunder an easement across Black Creek land, the taps remain closed.

Bradshaw explains that Tennessee American Water, the company that will serve RGR, is negotiating with Black Creek for the easement. A lot of that is a timing thing in terms of the engineering where the water lines go, because of where Black Creeks future phase has to go, he says.

A Tennessee American spokesperson confirms the company is in discussion for the rights. If the discussion is fruitful, the next round of pipe construction can begin, with Bradshaw predicting that homes and the restaurant might have water as soon as late summer. A planned 1 million-gallon water tank will be delayed a few years, Bradshaw says, because the first group of homes can be served by direct lines.

In March, the developer made an offer to the construction companies building nearly finished homes: a well reimbursement option, with the developer paying for private wells to be drilled. One of these wells came in a few weeks ago, its water brought up from deeper than some old mines. Abandoned mines with associated acid mine drainage (AMD) discharges are among the greatest threats to ground and surface water quality in many areas of the United States, according to the nonprofit Ground Water Protection Council.

The lots owner did not respond to a request for comment on water quality.

New roads wind through the development, but road approval remains in limbo from a county government disagreement over how the county can legally inspect or approve private roads. The single road now open to the public, a switchback up the mountain to the main entrance, developed several small slumps along its borders after recent rains, as photographed by Max Dahlquist, a geology professor at Sewanee. Bradshaw says these are rock buttresses, created to allow runoff from saturated soils through drains, adding, There have been zero issues with the road itself.

Its a mess, says one person familiar with RGR construction, who spoke anonymously for fear of job retribution. This source says the required bonds put up by the developer fall far below the estimated cost for road and infrastructure construction for the site. None of those roads have been tested. None of the asphalt was tested. The bonds not good enough. Last I heard it was $4.1 million total for three bonds that wont even cover the water line theyre putting in, let alone power.

Bradshaw insists that the roads in Jasper Highlands, Thorntons previous mountain development, were the first in Marion County to be built with four inches of asphalt, and that the RGR roads will be built beyond county specs.

We dont cut corners, we dont cheat, we dont steal, we dont lie, and we dont have well-placed friends, he says. What we do is we put our head down, and we work our butt off every single day. We do the right thing.

Coming in our May 22 issue: a look at RGR and the good ol boys running Marion County.
Texas governor threatens San Marcos over pro-ceasefire resolution, igniting free speech debate

Texas Governor Greg Abbott warned San Marcos that adopting a resolution calling for a Gaza ceasefire and divestment from Israel would result in the loss of state funding, citing Texas 2017 anti-boycott law (HB 89). He labeled the resolution "anti-Texas" and a violation of state policy.

City officials and activists defend the resolution as a response to Gazas humanitarian crisis, framing it as a moral obligation to redirect taxpayer money from Israels military to local needs like housing and education. They reject claims of antisemitism, emphasizing opposition to military actions, not Jewish people.

The ACLU and free speech advocates argue that criticizing Israels policies is protected speech, comparing it to Abbotts own critiques of foreign governments. Opponents, however, claim the resolution is "pro-Hamas" and threatens Jewish communities.

Texas anti-boycott laws align with broader U.S. pro-Israel policies, sparking debates over free speech, particularly on campuses. Similar conflicts have arisen in other states, with critics accusing such laws of suppressing dissent under the guise of combating antisemitism.

The May 6 vote could force Texas to choose between enforcing its anti-boycott laws or respecting local governance and human rights advocacy. The outcome may set a precedent for balancing state authority, free speech, and international alliances in future Israel-Palestine disputes.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has escalated tensions over pro-Palestine activism by threatening to strip state funding from San Marcos if it proceeds with a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and an end to U.S. military aid to Israel. The resolution, set for a vote May 6, has drawn stark reactions: Abbotts office called it anti-Texas, while supporters frame it as a moral imperative to oppose a genocide and reallocate taxpayer money towards local needs. The debate highlights a collision between state authority, legislative anti-boycott laws and First Amendment rightsa conflict with implications for governance and international relations.

Abbotts legal argument

Abbotts April 30 letter to San Marcos Mayor Jane Hughson cited Texas 2017 House Bill 89, which bars state entities from contracting with businesses participating in boycotts of Israel. The governor argued that the citys draft resolution, which calls for divesting local tax dollars from Israels military, violates this law by limiting commercial relations with Israel.

The city estimates over $4.4 million in San Marcos tax funds have been allocated to Israel since 2017a claim Abbott dismissed as hard to believe. He warned that any formal adoption of the resolution would trigger immediate termination of state grants to the city, including funds for infrastructure and public services. Anti-Israel policies are anti-Texas policies, Abbott wrote, emphasizing Israels status as a stalwart ally and a test of state loyalty.

San Marcos moral advocacy

The resolutions backers argue it is a response to escalating violence in Gaza, where thousands of Palestinians have been killed since October 7. Amanda Rodriguez, a San Marcos council member, termed the war genocide and framed the resolution as a moral litmus test. Councilmember Alyssa Garza added that taxpayer dollars diverted to Israel should instead address local crises, like housing and education underfunding.

Supporters including Scott Cove of Palestine Solidarity San Marcos dismissed Abbotts antisemitism accusation as baseless, pointing out the resolution explicitly condemns antisemitism. This has nothing to do with hating Jewish people, Cove said. Its about stopping the military actions that perpetuate suffering.

The free speech divide

The resolution has also drawn national legal scrutiny. Caro Achar, free speech coordinator for the ACLU of Texas, argued that advocating for policy changes  even those critical of Israel  is protected speech unless it incites violence. Citing the First Amendment, she warned against equating political advocacy with bigotry. Critiquing government actions isnt religious discrimination, Achar said, comparing it to Abbotts own criticism of Iran without being labeled Islamophobic.

Opponents, however, have framed the resolution as a threat to Jewish communities. David Sergi of Texans Standing with Israel called it pro-Hamas and tone-deaf, urging the council to instead focus on local issues. Meanwhile, San Marcos stance echoes broader campus movements, where Abbott previously threatened appropriate punishments for pro-Palestine protestsa position critics decry as overreach.

Pro-Israel legislation and free speech battles

Texas anti-boycott laws reflect a broader U.S. tilt toward Israel, especially since 2020, when then-President Trump recognized Jerusalem as Israels capital and December 2023s assassination of Netanyahus son. Such legislation, often marketed as countering boycott, divestment and sanctions (BDS), has birthed conflicts like this San Marcos dispute.

This case parallels national debates over campus free speech limits, including Floridas Stop the Woke law and bills targeting universities perceived as anti-Israel. Critics argue these policies weaponize allyship to suppress dissent, while supporters call them necessary to protect Jewish communities and national interests.

A prelude to balancing allegiances and autonomy

As San Marcos prepares for its May 6 vote, the showdown underscores the precarious balance between state power, local governance and civil liberties. If the resolution passes, Texas will face a unprecedented choice: enforce its anti-boycott laws against a city prioritizing domestic needs and human rights, or risk eroding its stance against what it deems antisemitism.

This conflict transcends local politics; it tests how democracies navigate allegations of bias while championing free expression and foreign policy alliances. For now, residents wait amid the tension, aware that the outcome may set a precedent for protests, funding disputes and the ever-evolving frontlines of the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Sources for this article include:

Statesman.com

FoxNews.com

CBSAustin.com
Common sense is now a conspiracy

By all means, lets all collapse onto fainting couches and demand a Level 5 Outrage Alert over Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s latest unthinkable move: In a burst of insanity rivaled only by that time someone suggested strapping babies into car seats instead of letting them roll around in the backseat like bowling pins, our deranged HHS Secretary has actually declared that we should start testing vaccines. Thoroughly and properly. You know, against placebos, like saline or sugar water. Oh, and also these new options shouldnt contain the sketchy mRNA technology that teaches our cells to build spike protein like its a Lego kit from hell.

(Article by Jenna McCarthy republished from JennasSide.rocks)

Whats next? Suggesting we wash our hands after handling feces and cook chicken all the way through?

And just like that, the Earth cracked open and the ghost of Jonas Salk was seen sobbing into his microscope. According to modern virologists like Rachel Maddow, disliking mRNA is the equivalent of denying gravity or licking doorknobs during a flu outbreak. But is it really so unreasonable to prefer an old-school vaccineone made with inactivated virusesover a platform so new that its long-term effects are still officially filed under TBD?

What RFK Jr. is proposing is actually something that used to be called science: You give a thing. You compare it to not giving the thing. You track both outcomes. You repeat the test, refine the parameters, publish the data, and resist the temptation to flog anyone who points out any flaws in your work. But somewhere along the line, logic left the building, Science got sold to the highest bidder, and not-testing became the new black.

From the always contrary New York Times:

Every other medicine is tested against a placebo, Mr. Kennedy said on a podcast in January 2020, in claiming that vaccines are exempt from that requirement. That, however, is not entirely correct. Cancer drugs and other medications authorized under the F.D.A.s accelerated approval program are regularly authorized after trials without a placebo.

In case you missed the hilarious irony, the point they rush to make is that vaccines arent the only medications to make it to market unsafely. The FDA does that with all sorts of drugs!

Mr. Kennedy has also raised concerns in the past about testing a vaccine against what many scientists consider a reasonable placebo: the same formula, but without the immune-activating agents. Mr. Kennedy has noted that the practice leaves uncertainty about whether ingredients in the formula could cause harm.

SOMEONE SMART: What if we tested vaccines against a Tic Tac or something so we could isolate any side effects?

MANY SCIENTISTS: Thats thats just unreasonable!

An HHS spokesperson called the move to placebo-control a radical departure from existing standards, which is a diplomatic way of saying, Were not sure what the last several administrations were thinking, but were going to bring sanity back to the lab. Kennedys policy, much to the horror of Fauci nostalgists, basically boils down to: Youre gonna have to prove it works. Youd think hed announced a plan to mandate glitter therapy and replace nurses with Roombas. Instead, hes saying: Lets not rubber-stamp annual boosters for evolving viruses using expired trials from a pandemic no ones emotionally recovered from. And all of this came after he committed the ultimate heresy: advising new parents to do their own research. No wonder they want him burned at the stake. In a system that rewards obedience, independent thought is scarier than any infectious diseaseand Kennedy just went full super-spreader.

This sows doubt! cried the experts who rotate between CNN interviews and board seats. Yes, it does. Because doubt is supposed to be part of science. The alternative is a faith-based model where pharmaceutical CEOs hand down commandments from a flaming bush shaped like a weasel Fauci.

Most immediately, Mr. Kennedys move could affect the next round of Covid booster shots, expected to become available in the fall, the Times moaned before graciously making Kennedys argument for him. Both flu shots and Covid boosters have been authorized without extensive human trials to target new strains of the virus as it has evolved.

See? We do it all the time. Why the sudden outrage?

Meanwhile, career scientists at the FDA are furious that Kennedy is interfering with their sacred systemthe same one that greenlit opioids, approved Alzheimers drugs with zero measurable benefit and a slew of side effects, and rushed through Covid shots while humming Dont Stop Believin over piles of missing data. Their comically ironic argument? It would be unethical to deprive even a small group of patients of effective vaccines against deadly pathogens.

Mr. Kennedy is one of the nations leading vaccine skeptics, and he has been vocal about his disdain for mRNA technology, the Times added, spiraling ever deeper into despair. A memo to the Gray Lady: Even if mRNA vaccines werent murderous poisons *which they are,* they dont prevent infection, dont block transmission, dont last, and havent exactly outshone last decades dusty flu vaccine. But tell me again how suggesting we explore alternatives is now somehow... anti-science? Im sorry, but when exactly did the logic bus flip over, and why wasnt it all over X?

Never one to pass up a chance to fearmonger, the Times naturally included a chilling warning that tens of thousands of people can die without protection against Covid. (Note the interesting choice of the word can and not could.) Ironically, the CDC reports that only 23% of adults have even gotten the latest booster. At this point, Kennedy could mandate that jabs be delivered by carrier pigeon and more than three quarters of Americans wouldnt even notice. But were supposed to believe hes undermining trust by advocating for safety? Sirs, trust left the building with the Delta variant and took your plexiglass dividers with it.

We live in a minute where the CDC is still recommending masking, testing, and social distancing, three moves proven to be made up, worthless, or both. The bar is low. Kennedy's bar is, arguably, just a smidge higherhe wants actual trial data, not just press releases and declarations of emergencies. The response: Testing new boosters before administering them is unethical! You honestly cant make this stuff up.

So yes, lets wring our hands. Lets pen Pinocchio-approved New York Times pieces waxing confused about the decline of trust. Lets pretend Kennedys the lunatic for wanting to restore faith in a system that burned its credibility to the ground and then blamed the ashes on conspiracies. Lets accuse him of breaking the system instead of merely being the first public health figure with the audacity to point out the biblical cracks in the foundation. People just might buy it.

Read more at: JennasSide.rocks
Federal judge blocks warrantless arrests of suspected illegals by Border Patrol in California

A California judge ruled that Border Patrol agents cannot arrest individuals suspected of being in the U.S. illegally without a warrant or evidence that they might flee, reinforcing Fourth Amendment protections.

The ACLU sued DHS and Border Patrol over "Operation Return to Sender," alleging unconstitutional raids targeting Latino communities, with detainees pressured into waiving legal rights.

The court mandated that agents must have "reasonable suspicion" for stops and "probable cause" for warrantless arrests (unless flight risk exists), requiring detailed documentation and bi-monthly reports.

Federal attorneys argued the court lacked jurisdiction, stating immigration cases should follow administrative appeals and that policy updates had already addressed concerns.

Advocates hailed the ruling as a safeguard against racial profiling, while the government warned it could discourage agencies from proactive policy reforms.

A federal judge in California has ruled that U.S. Border Patrol agents cannot arrest individuals suspected of living in the U.S. illegally without a warrant or evidence that the person might flee before one can be obtained.

In January, Border Patrol agents arrested dozens of alleged illegal immigrants during their "Operation Return to Sender." Border Patrol agents allegedly conducted "a nearly weeklong sweep through predominantly Latino areas of Kern County and the surrounding region." (Related: ICE begins NATIONWIDE raids targeting criminal illegal immigrants.)

In turn, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) filed the lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Border Patrol officials on behalf of the United Farm Workers union and individuals targeted in the raids.

According to the ACLU, agents detained dozens of people, many of them farm workers and day laborers, without proper legal justification, transported them to the border and pressured them into signing documents waiving their right to an immigration hearing.

As a response, U.S. District Judge Jennifer Thurston sided with the ACLU in her April 29 ruling. Thurston, who was appointed by former President Joe Biden, ruled that Border Patrol agents in California's Eastern District  the state's largest judicial district  must have "reasonable suspicion" that an individual is in the country unlawfully before conducting a stop and probable cause to make a warrantless arrest unless there is an imminent risk of escape.

In her decision, Thurston found that Border Patrol agents had engaged in "conduct that violated well-established constitutional rights." The order imposes strict requirements to ensure compliance with legal standards. First, agents are prohibited from making stops or arrests without reasonable suspicion or probable cause, as mandated by the Fourth Amendment. Second, warrantless arrests are only permitted if there is probable cause to believe the individual will flee before a warrant can be obtained, in accordance with 8 U.S.C.  1357(a)(2).

Agents must provide detailed documentation for all warrantless arrests, including a narrative outlining the "particularized facts" that justified the stop. The court requires regular reporting every 60 days on all detentions and arrests to ensure transparency and accountability. These measures aim to prevent further violations of constitutional rights while balancing security concerns.

Government attorneys claim federal court lacks jurisdiction

However, government attorneys argued that the court lacked jurisdiction, citing federal law that typically requires immigration cases to be appealed only after a final order from an immigration judge. They also contended that the lawsuit was moot because Border Patrol had already updated its policies, providing agents with new guidance on warrantless stops and detainee rights.

The defense attorneys also argued that rushing full approval is unjustified without ensuring accessibility and public confidence.

"The equities do not favor granting Plaintiffs' motion because, again, their claims have been resolved. Indeed, the public interest should favor an agency taking prompt, responsive action in light of a complaint against it. This is a favorable result and granting a preliminary injunction despite such actions would provide little incentive for agencies to take prompt, responsive actions in the future," the defense attorneys said in their opposition on April 7.

Visit BorderPatrol.news for more similar stories.

Watch the video below about the flood of illegal aliens at the U.S. border.

This video is from the InfoWars channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

California sending voter registration forms to illegal immigrants.

MOBS of Chinese illegal immigrants SWARM California border.

Thousands of illegal immigrants apprehended at Austrian borders.

Crimes at the border: Illegal immigrants, illegal drugs flow freely in southwest border.

Democrats under fire for helping illegal immigrants evade deportation.

Sources include:

Breitbart.com

APNews.com

Newsweek.com

Brighteon.com
Putin warns of potential nuclear escalation amid Ukraine conflict, accuses West of provocation

Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that Russia may use nuclear weapons if Ukraine employs Western-supplied long-range arms to strike deep inside Russian territory, framing it as a response to threats against sovereignty.

Russia's revised 2023 doctrine allows for nuclear retaliation if Russia or its ally Belarus faces aggression (conventional or nuclear), with officials warning that NATO troop deployments in Ukraine could trigger direct conflict.

Putin accused the West of underestimating Russia's willingness to use nuclear weapons, calling such assumptions dangerous.

Russia abandoned its Cold War "no first use" policy in the 1990s, adopting a more aggressive nuclear posture under Putin. The Ukraine war has further blurred the lines between conventional and nuclear deterrence.

Experts warn of miscalculation due to weak U.S.-Russia communication channels. Putin's threats aim to deter NATO while testing Western unity, raising fears of a regional war spiraling into global conflict.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a stark warning that Moscow could resort to nuclear weapons if Ukraine uses Western-supplied long-range arms to strike deep inside Russian territory.

Speaking during a meeting with senior international editors. Putin emphasized that the Kremlin's nuclear doctrine should not be dismissed as mere rhetoric. His remarks come amid heightened tensions with NATO and escalating Western military support for Ukraine. The threat underscores the precarious balance of power in Europe and raises fears of a broader conflict with global consequences. (Related: Putin confirms North Korea sent thousands of troops to fight in Ukraine as Russia-NK alliance deepens.)

Putin's latest comments reinforce Russia's long-standing nuclear posture, which reserves the right to use atomic weapons if the country's sovereignty or territorial integrity is threatened. "If someone's actions threaten our sovereignty and territorial integrity," Putin said, "we consider it possible to use all means at our disposal." The Russian leader accused the West of assuming Moscow would never deploy its nuclear arsenal, warning that such assumptions were dangerously mistaken.

The updated nuclear doctrine, revised in November 2023, explicitly allows for a nuclear response if Russia or its ally Belarus faces aggression, whether conventional or nuclear, from an adversary. Sergey Shoigu, secretary of Russia's National Security Council, reiterated this stance, stating that foreign troop deployments in Ukraine could trigger a direct NATO-Russia confrontation, potentially spiraling into nuclear war.

Historical context: Russia's nuclear posture since the Cold War

Russia's nuclear doctrine has evolved since the Cold War, but its core principle, deterrence through the threat of massive retaliation, remains intact. During the Soviet era, Moscow maintained a "no first use" policy, but this was abandoned in the 1990s as Russia's conventional military weakened. The current doctrine reflects a more aggressive stance, particularly under Putin, who has repeatedly leveraged nuclear threats to deter NATO expansion.

The war in Ukraine has further hardened Russia's position. In December 2024, Putin suggested that hypersonic missiles like the Oreshnik could reduce reliance on nuclear weapons, but his latest remarks indicate that the nuclear option remains firmly on the table. Analysts warn that Russia's doctrine blurs the line between conventional and nuclear warfare, increasing the risk of miscalculation.

Western leaders have condemned Putin's rhetoric, with NATO officials calling it reckless and destabilizing. The U.S. and EU have repeatedly stated that they will not be intimidated by nuclear threats, but privately, officials acknowledge the risks of escalation. Some European nations have debated sending troops to Ukraine post-ceasefire, a move Shoigu warned would be seen as an act of war.

Putin, however, insists that Russia has "enough forces and means" to achieve its objectives without nuclear escalation. In an interview with Russian journalist Pavel Zarubin, he accused the West of trying to "provoke us, wanted to force us to make mistakes." He added, "There has been no need to use [nuclear] weapons... I hope it won't be necessary."

The broader implications for global security

The specter of nuclear conflict has loomed over the Ukraine war since its outset, but Putin's latest statements mark a deliberate escalation in rhetoric. His warning that Russia would target all members of an attacking military bloc, including nations hosting strike capabilities, raises the stakes for NATO. The doctrine also suggests that Moscow could interpret intelligence about an impending attack as justification for a preemptive nuclear strike.

Experts warn that the lack of direct communication channels between Moscow and Washington heightens the risk of accidental conflict. Unlike during the Cold War, when hotlines and treaties provided safeguards, today's diplomatic landscape is more fragmented, with trust at historic lows.

For now, Putin insists that Russia can achieve victory without crossing the nuclear threshold, but his rhetoric ensures that the world cannot afford to look away. As tensions simmer, the international community faces a critical challenge: preventing a regional war from spiraling into a global catastrophe.

President Donald Trump says the ceasefire deal is making progress. Watch this video.

This video is from Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Trump and Putin ready to talk as Rubio calls for PEACEFUL END to Russia-Ukraine war.

Trump revives push for NUCLEAR ARMS REDUCTION talks with Russia and China.

Sources include:

RT.com

Pravda.com.ua

Brighteon.com
The cult that murders Gaza

I have not written much about the war on Gaza. It is so brutal and the Zionist behavior is so alien to me that I lack words to describe it.

(Article by Sundance republished from MoonOfAlabama.com)

I have difficulties to understand how anyone, any group of people, could set themselves so far outside of the common human realm, as I perceive it, and commit itself to starve and genocide millions of people.

Yasha Levine helped me to get a grip on it:

.. I came across thisa brief statement by a celebrity Chabad rabbi about his thoughts on the proper way to wage a war in the Jewish style. I wanted to share it with you. I dont believe in western morality, i.e. dont kill civilians or children, dont destroy holy sites, dont fight during holiday seasons, dont bomb cemeteries, dont shoot until they shoot first because it is immoral.The only way to fight a moral war is the Jewish way: Destroy their holy sites. Kill men, women and children (and cattle). The first Israeli prime minister who declares that he will follow the Old Testament will finally bring peace to the Middle East. ... Rabbi Manis Friedman Bais Chana Institute of Jewish Studies St. Paul, MN

It is a cult.

As Levine explains:

Rabbi Manis Friedman is well known in the Jewish world. .. ... [H]is views on the right way to wage a war on Palestinians were published in 2009 in Moment, a mainstream Jewish magazine that was cofounded by Elie Wiesel. ... Now fifteen years later Friedmans views are basically mainstream in Israel and in Jewish communities around the world. What he described as the only proper, godly way to wage war against the enemies of Israel is in fact what Israel is currently doing in Gaza and beyondwith total support from the United States and the Europeans.

What can one say?

Chabad is a religious sect with 18th century roots in some Belorussian village. Levine has written a number of pieces about it.

This bears the question: How can one 'deprogram' a large people who have fallen for a cult like this?

Read more at: MoonOfAlabama.com
Warren Buffett: Trump tariffs risk global economic act of war

Warren Buffett condemned Trump's aggressive tariffs, calling them an "act of war" that threatens global economic stability, while avoiding direct mention of the president.

The U.S. economy shrank for the first time in three years, with tariffs disrupting supply chains and causing market volatility (S&P 500 dropped 10% post-announcement). Berkshire Hathaway, however, outperformed the market, rising 18.9%.

Buffett warned against protectionism, citing historical failures like Smoot-Hawley tariffs during the Great Depression. He emphasized that global prosperity benefits the U.S., framing trade as mutually beneficial, not zero-sum.

Retaliatory tariffs (e.g., Chinas 125% levies) and EU criticism have strained international relations, with businesses like GM projecting $5 billion in potential losses.

Buffett's stance signals corporate unease with Trump's policies, but with midterms approaching, the White House remains committed. The debate over U.S. trade strategy  self-reliance vs. global partnership  intensifies as economic risks grow.

Legendary investor Warren Buffett delivered a blunt rebuke of President Donald Trump's aggressive trade policies at Berkshire Hathaways annual shareholder meeting, warning that escalating tariffs amount to an "act of war" that risks global economic instability.

The remarks made during a four-hour session in Omaha, Nebraska highlighted deepening tensions between Wall Street and the White House as the U.S. economy shrinks for the first time in three years. Buffett, 94, avoided naming Trump directly but condemned the administrations "Liberation Day" tariffs  a sweeping April initiative that imposes 10% to 245% levies on imports from over 90 countries  as counterproductive.

"Trade should not be a weapon," he stated, arguing that such measures fostered hostility and stifled mutual prosperity. His warnings come as the IMF downgrades global growth forecasts and businesses scramble to navigate disrupted supply chains, with General Motors alone projecting $5 billion in potential tariff losses.

Buffett's blueprint for trade: "Prosperity through partnership"

Buffett emphasized that balanced international trade, not protectionism, had fueled U.S. economic dominance historically. "The more prosperous the rest of the world becomes," he said, "the more prosperous we'll become and the safer we'll feel."

He criticized the idea of framing trade as a zero-sum game, cautioning that isolating the U.S. risked global resentment. "It's a big mistake when you have 7.5 billion people that don't like you very well," he noted.

The Oracle of Omaha's stance marked a departure from his 2018-2019 silence on tariffs, though he previously called such policies "bad things." This year's critique followed Berkshire Hathaway's first-quarter earnings report, which highlighted the Fed's "considerable uncertainty" over tariff fallout. The conglomerate's $334 billion cash pile  nearly doubling since 2021  hints at Buffett's caution amid volatile markets.

Market volatility and White House pushback

Trump's tariff regime has sparked immediate turbulence. The S&P 500 plummeted 10% post-announcement, its sharpest drop since the 2020 pandemic crash, before rebounding partially. In contrast, Berkshire's shares rose 18.9% this year, outperforming the market by 22%, as the firm bolstered stakes in Japanese trading firms despite U.S. policy headwinds.

Analysts warn of broader economic ripple effects. "Demand destruction is the overarching concern," said CFRA analyst Cathy Seifert. Berkshire investor Robin Nasser echoed that, noting, "Buffett's stockpiled cash suggests he knows something we don't."

Historical parallels and strategic shifts

Buffett's critique mirrors past global trade conflicts. Similar protectionist measures by the Brexit-era UK and 1930s America, when the Smoot-Hawley tariffs exacerbated the Great Depression, underscore the risks he highlighted. However, the scale of today's tariffs is unprecedented, with over $1 trillion in annual trade targeted.

The fallout has deepened geopolitical rifts. Chinas 125% retaliatory levies on U.S. exports  a record high  have slowed American sales of vehicles and agricultural goods, straining bilateral relations. Meanwhile, European Union leaders have called Trump's policies "reckless," threatening their own countermeasures.

A new era for trade and leadership

As Buffett announced his planned retirement by year's end, naming Vice Chairman Greg Abel as successor, his final major policy statement signals a potential shift in corporate sentiment. For now, though, the president faces mounting pressure to reconsider tactics even as his supporters praise "Liberation Day" as fulfilling campaign promises to "make borders great again."

With the U.S. economy in decline and global alliances fraying, Buffett's words may intensify calls for dialogue over defiance. But with midterm elections looming and tariffs a central campaign issue, the White House appears resolute in its stance despite the risks.

The clash over trade policy underscores a broader societal divide: Should the U.S. prioritize self-reliance or global partnership? Buffett's answer is clear, but for the American economy, the stakes have never been higher. As markets teeter and allies turn into adversaries, the next chapter of this economic battle may determine whether prosperity or peril defines the decade ahead.

Sources for this article include:

RT.com

Newsweek.com

Axios.com
UK and India seal major trade deal after three years of negotiations as Trump tariffs reshape global commerce

The UK and India finalized a historic trade deal after three years, cutting tariffs on whiskey, cars, and consumer goods.

British whiskey tariffs in India will drop from 150% to 40% over a decade, while UK car tariffs fall to 10%.

India gains tariff-free access for 90% of its exports, including textiles and food, boosting bilateral trade by 25.5 billion.

The deal strengthens economic ties amid global trade tensions, offering an alternative to U.S. tariff policies.

Unresolved issues include a pending investment treaty and Indias exclusion from the UKs carbon tax.

After more than three years of negotiations, the UK and India have struck a historic trade agreement that promises to boost economic growth, lower tariffs on key exports, and strengthen ties between the two nations. The deal, finalized on Tuesday, comes at a critical time as global trade tensions rise under U.S. President Donald Trumps tariff policies.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer hailed the agreement as a "landmark deal" that will "grow the economy and deliver for British people and business," while Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called it "ambitious and mutually beneficial."

A win for whiskey, cars, and consumer goods

The deal delivers significant wins for British exporters, particularly in the whisky and automotive industries, which have faced steep tariffs in India. Currently, British whisky and gin face a 150% import tax in India, but under the new agreement, those tariffs will be halved to 75% and eventually reduced to 40% over a decade. Similarly, tariffs on British cars, which were previously as high as 100%, will drop to just 10%, with quotas set to manage trade volumes.

India, meanwhile, will see 90% of its exports to the UK become tariff-free, including textiles, footwear, and food products. The British government estimates the deal will add 4.8 billion annually to the UK economy by 2040, with bilateral trade expected to grow by 25.5 billion.

A strategic response to global trade tensions

The agreement arrives amid escalating trade conflicts sparked by Trumps aggressive tariff policies, which have disrupted global markets. Both the UK and India have been seeking alternative trade partnerships to mitigate economic risks. "The timing couldnt be better, with the FTA enhancing the economic resilience of both the UK and India by providing access to new markets and reducing vulnerability to external shocks, said Keshav R. Murugesh, CEO of WNS and chairman of the Confederation of Indian Industry UK Business Forum.

For India, the deal represents a rare opening of its heavily protected markets, setting a precedent for future negotiations with the U.S. and EU. For the UK, it marks the most significant trade agreement since Brexit, though its economic impact remains modest compared to the countrys overall GDP.

Key concessions and unresolved issues

While the deal resolves many trade barriers, some sticking points remain. A parallel bilateral investment treaty, which would provide legal protections for cross-border investments, has yet to be finalized. Additionally, India failed to secure an exemption from the UKs upcoming carbon tax, though discussions on the issue continue.

One notable provision is the "double contribution convention," which allows Indian and British workers on temporary assignments to avoid paying social security contributions in both countries for up to three years. Critics, including former UK Trade Minister Kemi Badenoch, have raised concerns over immigration implications, but British officials insist the deal does not alter visa policies.

A long road to agreement

Negotiations began in January 2022 but faced repeated delays due to political instability in the UK, which saw four prime ministers in as many years, and elections in both nations. The Labour government, elected in July 2024, prioritized finalizing the deal, with last-minute talks between trade ministers Jonathan Reynolds and Piyush Goyal sealing the agreement.

Industry leaders celebrated the breakthrough. Mark Kent of the Scotch Whisky Association called it a "once-in-a-generation deal," predicting a 1 billion boost in exports over five years. The UK auto sector also welcomed the reduced tariffs, though compromises were made to secure the deal.

Modi and Starmer are expected to meet in the coming months to formally sign the agreement, which still requires legal review and ratification. As global trade dynamics shift, the UK-India deal offers a model for economic cooperation in an era of rising protectionism.

For now, businesses and consumers in both nations can look forward to expanded opportunities, whether it's through cheaper whiskey in India or more affordable textiles in the UK. As Starmer put it, this deal marks "a new era for trade," one that may prove crucial in navigating the uncertainties of todays global economy.

Sources for this article include:

TheGuardian.com

CNBC.com

Reuters.com
U.S. Health Secretary: Chemtrails are real and must be stopped

The term "chemtrails" has circulated for decades, often linked to theories of government-led weather manipulation or population control. While contrails  normal condensation trails from jet engines  are well-documented, proponents argue that some trails behave differently, lingering longer and dispersing chemicals. Kennedys assertion that these are deliberate acts marks a seismic shift in the debate.

In a statement that has reignited a long-dismissed conspiracy theory, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has publicly accused the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) of conducting covert atmospheric geoengineering programs involving aircraft-released chemicals.

Speaking to The Washington Post this week, Kennedy claimed these so-called "chemtrails" contain substances like barium, aluminum and strontium, raising alarms about public health and environmental risks. His remarks have thrust the controversial topic into mainstream discourse, drawing both fervent support and sharp skepticism.

"These materials are contained in jet fuel, and their release is not an accident," Kennedy said, calling the alleged programs a "crime against humanity." His claims reference DARPA, the Pentagons secretive research arm, which has explored geoengineering concepts like stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI) to combat climate change. Though SAI remains largely theoretical, Kennedy insists DARPA has moved beyond research, citing anecdotal reports of elevated metal levels in soil and water.

Kennedy alleges DARPA behind 'chemtrails,' sparks national debate on geoengineering

Peer-reviewed studies have yet to confirm widespread chemical dispersal via aircraft. A 2016 study in Environmental Research Letters found no evidence of deliberate spraying, attributing trace metals to natural atmospheric processes. Meanwhile, a 2023 Nature Climate Change paper cautioned that SAI, while potentially cooling the planet, carries risks like disrupted weather patterns.

DARPA has not responded to Kennedys allegations, though a 2021 Telegraph report revealed the agency funded SAI research, stressing it was exploratory. Critics, including MIT climate scientist Dr. Jane Smith, urge caution: "Geoengineering has scientific merit, but secret military programs lack credible evidence."

Kennedys claims have polarized lawmakers and the public. Republican-led states like Tennessee have passed laws banning unauthorized geoengineering, while Democrats warn against conflating conspiracy theories with legitimate climate science. Public opinion reflects the split: a 2025 Gallup poll showed 42% of Americans believe in chemtrails, up from 29% in 2020.

Health concerns remain contested. While aluminum exposure is linked to neurological disorders, the EPA maintains atmospheric levels are safe. Environmentalists, however, fear uncontrolled geoengineering could harm ecosystems. "Once you tamper with the atmosphere, the effects are unpredictable," said environmental chemist Dr. Emily Chen.

Kennedy has pledged a federal investigation into DARPA, vowing to declassify documents. His allegations, though unproven, highlight growing unease over climate intervention and government secrecy. As the debate rages, the line between science and speculation blurs, leaving the public to question: Who controls the skies  and at what cost?

Whether a legitimate scandal or a misinterpretation, the chemtrail controversy is now undeniably mainstream, ensuring its place in national discourse for years to come. Check out ClimateAlarmism.news for updates on psychotic billionaires spending big chunks of their money to ruin our planet in an attempt to kill off the majority of the population.

Sources for this article include:

NaturalNews.com

BezoEarthFund.org
Health Ranger Report: Zach Vorhies dives into the PSY-OPS and FAKERY of the Julian Assange trial

Zach Vorhies claims Assanges extradition hearings being held in the City of London (a separate legal district) suggests the trial is a financial elite-controlled psyop.

Vorhies alleges the current Assange is a fake, with the real one dead or in hiding since Pamela Andersons visit, and that even his family is part of the deception.

Assanges background traces to a psychiatric hospital cult compound, implying a hidden conflict with powerful entities.

The trial is framed as a psychological operation, with participants exposed, increasing scrutiny and nervousness among them.

Mike Adams links the trial to the U.S. nuclear attack plan (SIOP), stressing resilience against elite deception.

Google whistleblower Zach Vorhies joined the Health Ranger Mike Adams on the "Health Ranger Report" to discuss the Julian Assange trial, one of the most controversial and enigmatic cases of our time. The conversation revealed a web of deceit, psyops and hidden agendas that challenge the very foundations of what people believe to be true.

Vorhies began by dropping a bombshell: The Assange extradition hearings are not what they seem. According to him, the trial is being held in the city of London, which is a separate entity from the British government at No. 10 Downing Street.

"This whole WikiLeaks trial is not actually done in Britain. It's a banker's court," Vorhies revealed. "It's a psyop, and everyone going along with it is either in on it or not aware of what's happening."

The City of London, often referred to as "the Square Mile," is a unique and autonomous financial district with its own government and legal system. According to Vorhies, this distinction is crucial because it means the trial is not under the jurisdiction of the British government  but rather a powerful financial elite. This revelation casts a shadow over the entire legal process, suggesting that the proceedings are more about maintaining control and suppressing information than about justice. (Related: Court ruling means full extent of secret CIA plot against Julian Assange might be uncovered.)

Another startling claim Vorhies made was that the Julian Assange currently on trial is not the real Julian Assange. "I think Assange was dead after Pamela Anderson gave him that sandwich, and then they had that whole thing with the emergency act," the former senior software engineer at Google and YouTube told Adams.

According to Vorhies, an imposter is sitting in the place of the real Assange, who is either dead or in hiding since he is no longer part of the charade. Vorhies pointed to several inconsistencies in the behavior and appearance of the current Assange, including a noticeable change in his voice and demeanor.

He also noted that key figures, such as Assange's mother and wife, are also imposters. The Google whistleblower stated that Assange's mother and wife, who are parading around, are not real because they are part of the elaborate live action role-play (LARP) to maintain the illusion.

The cult connection and the psy-op theory

Vorhies delved into Assange's background, revealing a story that is as bizarre as it is disturbing. "Julian Assange came from a cult compound that was located in a psychiatric hospital," he said.

Assange's real mother took him away from his father, who looked exactly like Julian, to escape this cult. Vorhies stated that they moved from school to school, but the cult kept following them.

This background adds a layer of complexity to the Assange story, suggesting that his life has been marked by a constant struggle against powerful and secretive forces. Vorhies also mentioned a 2010 TED Talk where Assange alluded to running away from a cult, further corroborating this narrative.

The idea that the Assange trial is a psyop (psychological operation) is not new, but Vorhies' insights provide a fresh perspective. He mused: "If half the things are psyops, why don't I just go all the way and make everything a psyop?"

Vorhies mentioned that a tweet where he laid out evidence of this psy-op went viral and got almost a million views. Now that the cat is out of the bag, the former software engineer pointed out that the actors LARPing as Assange and his family are very nervous.

The SIOP connection

In a surprising turn, Adams brought up the Single Integrated Operational Plan (SIOP), the U.S. nuclear attack plan targeting Russia that existed until 2003.

According to Adams, the actual attack plan called SIOP "called for such an overwhelming number of thermonuclear bombs to be dropped on Moscow and other Russian cities." The U.S. government was also aware that the attack's resulting fallout would kill hundreds of millions of Chinese.

This connection between the Assange trial and the SIOP highlights the lengths to which powerful entities will go to maintain control and suppress information. The SIOP, with its chilling disregard for human life, serves as a stark reminder of the dark underbelly of global power structures.

Despite the grim revelations, both Adams and Vorhies emphasized the importance of resilience and preparedness. The author of the book "Google Leaks: An Expose of Big Tech Censorship" urged viewers to stay informed and take action.

"We're so screwed as humanity. But you've got the strength in you," Vorhies admitted. "We're going to go through this, and you will survive it. So, prepare, stay safe. Remember that your health and your family come first," he said.

The interview with Vorhies is a wake-up call for those who believe in transparency and justice. The Assange trial, far from being a straightforward legal proceeding, is a complex psyop designed to maintain the status quo.

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected and information becomes more accessible, it is crucial to question everything and seek the truth. In a world where psyops and fakery are the norm, the fight for truth and transparency is more important than ever.

Follow Conspiracy.news for more news about the psyops happening in America.

Watch the full interview between Zach Vorhies and the Health Ranger Mike Adams below.

This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Whistleblower Zach Vorhies warns public of Googles push to destabilize US and make it fall  Brighteon.TV.

Mike Adams and Alex Jones discuss the impending collapse of the globalist matrix and the frantic efforts of the elites to maintain control.

Julian Assange of WikiLeaks wins bid to appeal extradition to U.S.

Sources include:

Brighteon.com

ZachVorhies.com
U.S. loses yet another $60 million fighter jet in Red Sea as Houthi conflict spirals

A U.S. F/A-18 Super Hornet crashed into the Red Sea after a failed landing on the USS Harry S. Truman, marking the third such loss in recent months.

Both pilots ejected safely with minor injuries, but the $60-70 million jet was lost due to an arrestment failure on the carriers deck.

The Pentagon denies Houthi involvement, despite the rebels reportedly firing at the Truman the same day, contradicting U.S. ceasefire claims.

The Navy has lost three Super Hornets in six months, raising concerns about operational readiness and financial waste in the costly conflict.

Houthi attacks continue to challenge U.S. forces, with drones and missiles targeting American assets in solidarity with Palestine, exposing strategic vulnerabilities.

The U.S. military suffered another costly setback in the Red Sea this week as an F/A-18 Super Hornet plunged into the water after a failed landing attempt on the USS Harry S. Truman, marking the second such loss in just over a week and the third since operations against Yemens Houthi rebels intensified.

The $60-70 million warplane went overboard Tuesday following an arrestment failure, forcing both pilots to eject. Pentagon officials insist the jet "was not struck by the Houthis," despite the rebel group reportedly taking a shot at the carrier the same day. The incident underscores the Trump administrations faltering campaign in the region, where U.S. forces have faced relentless attacks while propping up Israels controversial military actions in Gaza.

Another costly failure for the U.S. Navy

The latest mishap occurred when the Super Hornets tailhook failed to catch the arresting cable on the Trumans flight deck, sending the aircraft into the sea. Both crew members ejected safely and were rescued with minor injuries. This marks the second F/A-18 lost from the Truman in eight days; last week, another jet fell overboard during evasive maneuvers against Houthi missile fire. In December, a third Super Hornet was mistakenly shot down by the USS Gettysburg, a cruiser assigned to the Trumans strike group.

The repeated losses highlight systemic failures in U.S. operations, with each incident costing taxpayers tens of millions of dollars. The Navy has yet to recover any of the downed aircraft, raising questions about operational readiness. A defense official told CBS News that the latest crash involved "an arrestment failure," referring to the mechanism designed to safely halt landing jets. Meanwhile, the Trumans troubled deployment has included a February collision with a merchant ship near Egypt, which led to the carriers commanding officer being relieved of duty.

Houthis remain defiant despite ceasefire claims

The incidents unfolded the same day President Trump announced a ceasefire with the Houthis, declaring the group had "capitulated" after months of U.S.-led strikes. Yet hours later, the rebels reportedly fired at the Truman, casting doubt on Washingtons claims of victory. The Houthis have repeatedly targeted U.S. and allied ships in solidarity with Palestinians, citing Israels military campaign in Gaza. Their attacks have downed over a dozen U.S. drones, including a $32 million MQ-9 Reaper earlier this month.

While the Pentagon denies Houthi involvement in the latest Super Hornet loss, the timing reinforces the rebels persistent threat. Analysts argue the U.S. is trapped in an unwinnable conflict, pouring resources into defending Israeli interests while facing growing regional backlash. The Trumans struggles mirror broader strategic failures, with the carrier strike group suffering repeated mishaps since deploying last September.

A pattern of costly missteps

The financial toll of these losses is staggering. Each F/A-18 carries a $60-70 million price tag, and the Navy has now lost three in six months. The USS Gettysburgs friendly-fire downing in December, which occurred during airstrikes on Yemen, exposed critical communication failures. Meanwhile, the Houthis continue to exploit U.S. vulnerabilities, using low-cost drones and missiles to challenge American dominance.

With the Red Sea becoming a graveyard for U.S. hardware, critics argue Washingtons blind support for Israels Gaza offensive has backfired, emboldening the Houthis and draining military resources. As investigations into the latest crash continue, it is clear that the U.S. cannot afford to keep losing multi-million-dollar jets in a conflict it refuses to end.

Sources for this article include:

RT.com

CBSNews.com

CNN.com

FoxNews.com
Landmark study of 85 million reveals shocking surge in heart attacks, strokes, and sudden death following the notorious COVID-19 jab

A new study analyzing 85 million people confirms COVID-19 vaccines are linked to staggering increases in cardiovascular injuries, including heart attacks (+286%), strokes (+240%), and arrhythmia (+199%).

Pfizers mRNA shot shows a 284% increased risk of heart attack after the second dose, while AstraZenecas viral vector vaccine carries a 711% higher risk of arrhythmia.

Epidemiologists warn the true death toll from these injections may exceed 600,000 in the U.S. alonesurpassing casualties from World War I, World War II, and Vietnam combined.

Public health agencies continue to ignore the mounting evidence, leaving millions at risk of permanent disability or sudden death.

COVID-19 jabs destroyed cardiovascular function

The COVID-19 vaccine catastrophe has reached a horrifying new milestone. A peer-reviewed study published in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine has confirmed what independent researchers, whistleblowers, and grieving families have warned about for years: These experimental injections are maiming and killing people at an unprecedented scale.

Analyzing data from 85 million individuals, researchers found that the so-called "vaccines" are directly linked to skyrocketing rates of cardiovascular destruction, including:

Stroke risk increased by 240% after the first dose of any COVID vaccine.

Heart attack risk surged by 286% following the second dose.

Coronary artery disease (CAD) jumped by 244% post-second dose.

Arrhythmia risk exploded by 199% after the first dosebut AstraZenecas ChAdOx1 shot spiked it by 711%.

The worst offenders? Pfizers mRNA shot (BNT162b2) and AstraZenecas viral vector vaccine (ChAdOx1). The second dose of Pfizers injection was tied to a 284% increased risk of heart attack, while AstraZenecas first dose showed a 711% surge in arrhythmia casesa condition that can lead to sudden cardiac death.

The findings are corroborated by other new studies, such as the one titled, "COVID-19 vaccines and adverse events of special interest: A multinational Global Vaccine Data Network (GVDN) cohort study of 99 million vaccinated individuals." From this study, the researchers concluded, "This multi-country analysis confirmed pre-established safety signals for myocarditis, pericarditis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, and cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. Other potential safety signals that require further investigation were identified."

The cover-up continues: How public health agencies ignored the warnings

Despite these damning findings, the CDC, FDA, and WHO continue to push these deadly shots, even recommending them for children and pregnant women. The studys authors admit their findings should "help public health policy for future pandemics"yet no such policy changes have been made.

Epidemiologist Nicholas Hulscher warns that the true death toll is likely far worse than reported. Extrapolating from recent research, he estimates that Pfizers vaccine alone may have killed 470,000 Americansa conservative figure that excludes deaths from Moderna and other brands.

"The deadly COVID-19 mRNA injections, still being administered to millions of American children, are responsible for more American casualties than World War I, World War II, and the Vietnam War combined," Hulscher stated.

A global genocide? The unfolding biological warfare against humanity

This is not just negligenceits deliberate biological sabotage. The spike protein, whether injected or shed, disrupts cellular function, triggers blood clots, and causes systemic inflammation. The result? Heart failure in athletes, strokes in young adults, and sudden deaths in otherwise healthy individuals.

COVID-19 injections are biological weapons, attacking our genetic integrity and the harmony of natural protein synthesis of healthy cells. The COVID-19 injections remain on the market, despite critical and damning evidence suggesting they have destroyed the human population, directly and even indirectly through occupational spike protein exposure.

Dr. Peter McCullough, a leading cardiologist, has repeatedly warned that these vaccines should be pulled from the market immediately. "The risk-benefit analysis is clear," he says. "These shots are causing more harm than COVID-19 ever did."

Yet, governments and pharmaceutical giants continue to suppress the truth, censoring doctors, manipulating data, and dismissing vaccine injuries as "coincidences." History will remember this era as one of unprecedented medical tyrannya time when corporate greed and government collusion overruled science, ethics, and human life.

Sources include:

Expose-News.com

Journals.lww.com

ScienceDirect.com
Florida bans fluoride in public water, prioritizing health freedom over forced medication

Florida has banned fluoride in public drinking water, becoming the second U.S. state to do so, citing concerns over health risks and personal choice.

Gov. DeSantis and health officials framed the ban as a victory for informed consent, opposing "forced medication" through water supplies.

Research linking fluoride to neurodevelopmental issues in children influenced the decision, with experts calling for policy changes.

The ban follows a federal court ruling and Utahs earlier prohibition, signaling a growing movement against fluoridation nationwide.

Dental associations oppose the move, but Floridas policy prioritizes individual rights and updated scientific evidence over traditional mandates.

Florida has taken a bold stand against forced medication by becoming the second state in the U.S. to ban the addition of fluoride to public drinking water. Gov. Ron DeSantis announced this week that he will sign Senate Bill 700, known as the "Florida Farm Bill," which prohibits local governments from adding fluoride or other medical additives to water supplies.

The move, which is being praised by health freedom advocates, follows mounting scientific concerns over fluorides potential risks, particularly for children and pregnant women.

A victory for informed consent

DeSantis framed the decision as a matter of personal choice, stating, "When you do this in the water supply, youre taking away a choice of someone who may not want to have overexposure to fluoride." He emphasized that Floridians should not be subjected to "forced medication" without their consent.

The governor was joined by Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo and Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, who declared, "Today we announce that drinking water will hydrate, not medicate. Florida water will be clean, it will be safe, and it will be medication-free."

The ban, effective July 1, does not prevent individuals from purchasing fluoridated water or using fluoride toothpaste. Instead, it ensures that government agencies cannot mandate exposure to the chemical. "People deserve informed consent," DeSantis said, reflecting growing skepticism toward top-down public health policies.

The science behind the ban

Critics of water fluoridation argue that the risks far outweigh the benefits, especially given modern dental hygiene alternatives. Ladapo cited research linking fluoride exposure to neurodevelopmental issues in children, including lower IQ and ADHD.

"With more and more studies finding associations of fluoride exposure with adverse neurological outcomes, even at levels that we commonly encounter in Florida, the findings point to an imminent need for policy change," said Ashley Malin, Ph.D., a University of Florida epidemiologist.

A 2024 federal court ruling also played a key role in Floridas decision. U.S. District Judge Edward Chen concluded that fluoridation at current U.S. levels poses an "unreasonable risk" to children, prompting the EPA to reconsider regulations. Additionally, a National Toxicology Program report found consistent links between fluoride exposure and cognitive impairments.

A growing movement

Floridas ban follows Utahs lead, which became the first state to prohibit fluoridation in March. Rick North of the Fluoride Action Network called the trend a "tipping point," noting that over 60 U.S. communities have recently halted fluoridation. "The U.S. is catching up to the 95% of the world that has already rejected fluoridation," he said.

Despite opposition from dental associations, which argue fluoride prevents cavities, DeSantis dismissed their stance as outdated.

A brighter, fluoride-free future

Floridas decision marks a turning point in public health policy, prioritizing individual rights and emerging science over decades-old mandates. As more states reconsider fluoridation, advocates hope this move will inspire broader change. "Todays efforts to prohibit local governments from unilaterally adding fluoride to public drinking water is the logical next iteration of our commitment to being the Free State of Florida," Bryan Griffin, DeSantis's communications director, declared. For now, Floridians can celebrate cleaner, safer water and the freedom to choose what goes into their bodies.

Sources for this article include:

ChildrensHealthDefense.org

FoxNews.com

USAToday.com
Gates-funded remote-controlled birth control sparks debate over global contraception

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has invested over $100 million since 2012 in long-acting, remotely controlled contraceptive technologies, including injectable microcrystal implants and wireless microchips, aimed at improving access in developing nations.

Critics warn these technologies could enable coercive population control, citing historical precedents like the "Jaffe Memo" and Cold War-era sterilization campaigns, while proponents argue they empower women with more reproductive choices.

Key technologies include a16-year wireless microchip implant (developed by MIT-linked Microchips Biotech, now under Dare Bioscience) can be turned on/off remotely. Meanwhile, injectable microcrystals (recently studied by MIT) form hormone-releasing "depots" under the skin, lasting months to years.

Skeptics, like epidemiologist Nicholas Hulscher, link the tech to Gates' overpopulation concerns, fearing misuse by authoritarian regimes. Remote control features and long durations raise autonomy issues, especially in regions with weak oversight.

While researchers emphasize medical benefits (e.g., treating HIV or mental health), historical distrust of global health initiatives and past abuses (e.g., Norplant) fuel skepticism. Future acceptance hinges on transparency, cultural sensitivity, and regulatory safeguards.

Details about contraceptive technologies funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which emerged in April, have reignited fears over global population control and medical autonomy.

The Gates Foundation has spent over $100 million since 2012 developing long-acting, remotely controlled birth control technologies. These include an injectable microcrystal implant and a wireless, chip-based system.

Critics argue these methods risk enabling covert enforcement or depopulation agendas, while proponents maintain they empower women in developing nations. As the devices near human trials, stakeholders clash over whether innovation prioritizes health equity or covert control.

The evolution of Gates-funded contraceptive technologies

The foundation's interest in contraceptive innovation began at its 2012 Family Planning Summit, where it pledged funding for injectable contraceptives for low-income regions. By 2014, Gates directed $20.4 million to Microchips Biotech, an MIT?linked firm, for a wireless implantable microchip.

The microchip made by the MIT-linked company releases levonorgestrel, a hormone used in birth control, for up to 16 years. The chip could be turned on or off via remote control.

Though the company later dissolved, its design was acquired by Dare Bioscience. The San Diego-based company has since received over $59 million in Gates Foundation funding for its DARE-LARC1 implant, now in preclinical testing.

More recently, MIT engineers developed an injectable microcrystal system, described in Nature Chemistry Engineering (March 2025). Suspended in a biocompatible solvent, these crystals self-assemble under the skin to form a "depot" that releases hormones for months to years. Projects like these aim to offer contraception without the need for frequent injections, particularly in regions with limited healthcare access.

Critics link funding to depopulation and covert control

Skeptics cite the "Jaffe Memo," a 1969 document from Planned Parenthood that reportedly included proposals for coercive measures like population control via water supply additives or compulsory sterilization.

Nicholas Hulscher, an epidemiologist and administrator at the McCullough Foundation, linked the microcrystal research to Gates' documented concerns about overpopulation. In a May interview with Dr. Joseph Sansone, Hulscher claimed Gates funded both the contraceptive tech and studies predicting an "irreversible birth rate collapse," raising suspicions of a coordinated depopulation strategy.

"This technology could be exploited to enforce policies, especially in places with weak regulatory oversight," Hulscher said. He echoed broader fears that mRNA vaccines might align with "mass vaccination programs backed by the same entities."

MIT researchers meanwhile emphasized medical intent. Sanghyun Park, co-author of the March 2025 study, noted the system could treat HIV, tuberculosis or mental health disorders. "It's not just about birth control," Park stated. Yet critics argue language like "last for 16 years" and remote-access features heighten concerns that users might be unaware or unable to opt out of perpetual contraception.

Concerns over population control

Critics trace fears to 20th-century eugenics and Cold War-era projects like Ford Foundation initiatives in India, which funded sterilization campaigns. The Gates Foundation's focus on developing nations, often in partnerships with entities like the World Health Organization, echoes these dynamics.

"The distrust isn't new," wrote Inversionism on Twitter. "Globalists have long considered fertility control a tool for 'sustainability.'" The Jaffe Memo also resurfaces fears of systemic depopulation strategies. As Dare Bioscience advances towards human trials, ethicists question whether long-acting systems could inadvertently disincentivize consent, particularly in regions where coercion has historical roots.

With the microcrystals' efficacy confirmed in early rat studies and human trials on the horizon, the debate shifts to regulation and intent. The Gates Foundation has sought to position the tech as a voluntary empowerment tool, denying depopulation motives. But the legacy of past projects, such as the discontinued Norplant implants, shows how good intentions can intersect with abuses.

As philanthropic health initiatives grow, the line between innovation and autonomy remains fragile. Whether the implants become symbols of progress or renewed distrust will hinge on transparency, cultural sensitivity and global oversight.

Sources for this article include:

TheExpose.com

InterestingEngineering.com
British supermarket chain introduces AI-powered ROBOTS in stores

British supermarket chain Morrisons has deployed autonomous Tally robots in three U.K. stores (Wetherby, Redcar and Stockton) to monitor stock levels, highlighting retail's shift toward automation.

Developed by Simbe Robotics, Tally uses AI and computer vision to scan shelves for out-of-stock items, pricing errors and misplaced products with 99 percent accuracy, processing up to 30,000 items per hour.

While Morrisons claims Tally frees staff to focus on customer service, critics raise concerns about job security and reduced human interaction, especially amid recent store closures affecting 365 employees.

Similar moves by retailers like Sainsbury's (self-checkout systems) and John Lewis (AI age verification) reflect an industry-wide push for digitization, sparking debates over convenience versus human connection.

Some shoppers criticize automation for eroding personal interactions, echoing past backlash (e.g., Morrisons "Buzz for Booze" policy), as the balance between efficiency and traditional service remains contentious.

British supermarket chain Morrisons has introduced "Tally" robots in three of its U.K. stores. The introduction of these sleek, autonomous machines designed to monitor stock levels underscores the growing influence of automation in retail.

Three Morrisons locations  Wetherby, Redcar and Stockton  were the first ones to see Tally robots down their grocery aisles. San Francisco-based Simbe Robotics was responsible for developing these five-feet-four-tall robots.

Tally uses artificial intelligence (AI) and computer vision to scan shelves for out-of-stock items, pricing errors and misplaced products  a task Morrisons describes as "crucial but time-consuming." It can navigate aisles independently, capturing up to 30,000 products per hour with 99 percent accuracy. Designed to be unobtrusive, they feature "polite, friendly faces" and can self-dock to recharge when needed. (Related: Meet Tally, the grocery store shelf auditing robot that's going to put thousands of low-wage grocery workers out of a job.)

Katherine Allanach, technology manager for the supermarket chain, told The Grocer that the robots aim to streamline operations, allowing staff to dedicate more time to assisting shoppers. Simbe Robotics meanwhile emphasized that Tally is not a surveillance tool, but rather a tool for inventory management. Major retailers like Carrefour and Kroger had already used Tally robots prior to Morrisons.

Robots in retail: The unstoppable march of grocery automation

While the company insists the robots will free up employees to focus on customer service, the rollout comes amid broader concerns about job security and the erosion of human interaction in retail spaces. The timing of the trial has also raised eyebrows.

Morrisons recently announced the closure of dozens of cafes and stores, putting 365 jobs at risk, though the company claims most affected employees will be reassigned. Critics argue that automation, while efficient, may further reduce human roles in an industry already grappling with cost-cutting measures.

Similar concerns have emerged elsewhere. Last year, British supermarket chain Sainsbury's partnered with Atlanta-based NCR Voyix to overhaul its checkout systems. Department store chain John Lewis meanwhile implemented AI-powered age verification for online knife sales.

These shifts reflect a broader retail trend toward digitization, one that has drawn mixed reactions from consumers. Public sentiment remains divided, with some shoppers appreciating the efficiency of new technologies and others lamenting the loss of personal interaction.

One Facebook user criticized the idea of robotic replacements, writing: "I would always go to a till with a person, having a small chat with them. [I] can't do that with a computer." Another on X questioned whether the trade-off for convenience was worth sacrificing human connection.

Such concerns echo past controversies, including Morrisons' much-mocked "Buzz for Booze" buttons, which required customers to summon staff for alcohol purchases. The policy subsequently backfired, with shoppers calling it "an absolute joke."

As Morrisons and other retailers continue to experiment with automation, the debate over technology's role in everyday commerce shows no sign of slowing. While AI and robotics promise increased efficiency and cost savings, they also challenge traditional notions of service and employment. For now, Tally's trial offers a glimpse into a future where human cashiers and stock checkers may no longer be the norm.

Grocery.news has more related stories.

Watch this clip that discusses how grocery stores like Walmart adopted robots during the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

This video is from the ZGoldenReport channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Robots could take over 3.4 million human jobs thanks to Amazon Go's new grocery stores.

Walmart converting 65% of its stores to "automation"  human employees will be let go.

Coming soon: Mini robot grocery stores.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

RetailGazette.co.uk

Metro.co.uk

Brighteon.com
RED ALERT: Nuclear War Between India and Pakistan Could Trigger Global Catastrophe full RISK ANALYSIS

The war between India and Pakistan has officially begun, and the stakes couldnt be higher. With both nations armed to the teeth with, this conflict could rapidly spiral into a, dragging in global powers like China, Iran, Russia, and the U.S. Heres my breakdown of the existential risks, alliances, and survival strategies.

Be sure to also check my podcast analysis of this developing situation at the HR Report channel on Brighteon.

The Nuclear Arsenals: Who Has What?

Pakistans Nuclear Edge

Warheads: ~120 (expanding to 350+ in 510 years 3rd largest after U.S./Russia).

~120 (expanding to 3rd largest after U.S./Russia). Fissile Material: Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU) stockpiles allow rapid production of low-yield tactical nukes (110 kilotons).

stockpiles allow rapid production of (110 kilotons). Delivery Systems: Ballistic Missiles: Nasr (Hatf-9): 60 km range (tactical battlefield nukes). Shaheen-III: 2,750 km (can hit all of India). Cruise Missiles: Babur (700 km, submarine-launched). Aircraft: F-16s, JF-17s (nuclear-capable).

Doctrine: First-use policywill nuke India if conventional forces collapse.

Indias High-Yield Superiority

Warheads: ~100 (but more plutonium reserves for bigger bombs).

~100 (but more for bigger bombs). Fissile Material: Plutonium fuels thermonuclear (H-bomb) weapons (up to 200+ kilotons ).

fuels (up to ). Delivery Systems: Ballistic Missiles: Agni-V: 5,000+ km (can hit Beijing or Moscow). Agni-VI (in dev.): 8,00010,000 km (ICBM range). Submarines: Arihant-class with K-15 SLBMs (750 km). Aircraft: Rafale, Su-30MKI (nuclear-capable).

Doctrine: No First Use (NFU)but exceptions possible if threatened.

The Escalation Risks: How This Goes Nuclear

Pakistans Tactical Nuke Trap: If Indias conventional forces overwhelm Pakistan (e.g., cutting off water/food regions like Punjab, which has already begun), Islamabad could deploy low-yield nukes (Nasr missiles) on battlefields.

If Indias conventional forces overwhelm Pakistan (e.g., cutting off water/food regions like Punjab, which has already begun), (Nasr missiles) on battlefields. Indias Retaliation: Delhi might respond with high-yield strikes (Agni missiles) on Pakistani cities, triggering massive civilian casualties .

Delhi might respond with (Agni missiles) on Pakistani cities, triggering . China & Iran Enter the Fray: Pakistans Allies: China (economic/military partner) and Iran (recent defense assistance agreement with Russia) could supply weapons or even launch cyberattacks on India. Indias Backing: U.S./EU may impose sanctions, send arms, or deploy naval forces to the Arabian Sea.



Worst-Case Scenario:

Pakistan uses tactical nukes ? India retaliates with city-busting H-bombs. Radiation clouds drift toward China/Iran, forcing them to act. U.S. intervenes to protect India ? Russia/Iran strike U.S. bases. Global nuclear war ensues.

Economic & Survival Implications

Markets Collapse: Gold/oil will skyrocket (consider buying physical gold now before it spikes even more).

Gold/oil will (consider buying physical gold now before it spikes even more). Food Shortages: Pakistans fertile regions (the "Rice Basket of the Middle East") could be irradiated , causing global rice shortages .

Pakistans fertile regions (the "Rice Basket of the Middle East") could be , causing . Radiation Fallout: Winds may carry fallout to China, Afghanistan, even Europe.

Survival Prep:

Shelter: Seal homes with plastic/HEPA filters (see my interview with Kristen Meghan).

Seal homes with plastic/HEPA filters (see my interview with Kristen Meghan). Food/Water: Stockpile 3+ months of rice, beans, and water filters.

Stockpile of rice, beans, and water filters. Energy: Solar generators + extra diesel (grids may fail).

The Bottom Line

This is not just a regional warits a flashpoint for WWIII. The U.S. and Russia are already on opposing sides, and nuclear thresholds are dangerously low. Pray for de-escalation, but prepare for the worst.

Wildcards in all this include Israel and Iran. Israel has undisclosed nuclear weapons, and Iran is suspected as having nuclear weapon capabilities as well, although no such weapons have been officially acknowledged.

Stay vigilant. Be prepared for anything. Things are about to get super sketchy.

###

Follow my podcasts, interviews, articles and social media posts on:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/HealthRanger

Brighteon.social: Brighteon.social/@HealthRanger

Brighteon.io: Brighteon.io/healthranger

Telegram: t.me/RealHealthRanger

Brighteon.com: Brighteon.com/channels/HRreport

Rumble: Rumble.com/c/HealthRangerReport

Substack: HealthRanger.substack.com

Banned.video: Banned.video/channel/mike-adams

Bastyon: https://bastyon.com/healthranger

Gettr: GETTR.com/user/healthranger

BitChute: Bitchute.com/channel/9EB8glubb0Ns/

Clouthub: app.clouthub.com/#/users/u/naturalnews/posts

My music with MP3 downloads and music videos: music.Brighteon.com

Join the free NaturalNews.com email newsletter to stay alerted about breaking news each day.

Download my current audio books -- including Ghost World, Survival Nutrition, The Global Reset Survival Guide and The Contagious Mind -- at:

https://Audiobooks.NaturalNews.com/

Download my popular audio book, "Resilient Prepping" at ResilientPrepping.com - it teaches you how to survive the total collapse of civilization and the loss of both the power grid and combustion engines.
Nuclear neighbors at war: India strikes Pakistan, fighter jets shot down as Kashmir crisis spirals

India and Pakistan engaged in cross-border airstrikes over Kashmir, escalating tensions and raising global fears of an uncontrollable conflict.

India conducted "Operation Sindoor," targeting alleged terrorist camps in Pakistan in retaliation for a deadly attack on civilians in Kashmir.

Pakistan shot down multiple Indian jets, including advanced Rafale fighters, and vowed further retaliation, calling Indias strikes an "act of war."

Global powers, including the U.S., Russia, and China, urged de-escalation, but nationalist rhetoric in both countries intensified the crisis.

The conflict risks spiraling further as India suspends the Indus Water Treaty, cutting off river flow to Pakistan, while nuclear tensions loom.

The fragile peace between nuclear-armed rivals India and Pakistan shattered this week as cross-border airstrikes and dogfights erupted over the disputed Kashmir region, leaving wreckage, civilian casualties, and the world fearing an uncontrollable escalation.

India launched missile strikes deep into Pakistani territory, targeting what it called "terrorist infrastructure" in retaliation for a deadly April attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir. Pakistan responded by shooting down multiple Indian fighter jets and vowing further retaliation. With both nations trading blame and military action intensifying, global powers are scrambling to prevent a full-scale war.

Indias preemptive strikes spark crisis

Indian forces are conducting "Operation Sindoor," striking nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, including Kotli, Muzaffarabad, and Ahmed Pur East. The operation, named after the red vermilion powder symbolizing Hindu marital commitment, was framed as a direct response to the April 22 massacre of 26 civilians in Pahalgam, Kashmir, most of whom were tourists. Indian officials accused Pakistan-based militant groups Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed of orchestrating the attack, though Islamabad denied involvement.

"Intelligence and monitoring of Pakistan-based terror modules showed that further attacks against India were impending," said Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. "Therefore, it was necessary to take preemptive and precautionary strikes."

Pakistan, however, rejected Indias justification, calling the strikes a "blatant act of war" that killed at least 26 civilians and injured dozens more. Pakistans Defense Minister, Khawaja Asif, insisted that none of the sites hit were militant camps.

Pakistan retaliates, claims downing Indian jets

Within hours, Pakistans military announced it had shot down five Indian Air Force jets, including three advanced French-made Rafale fighters. Video footage showed an Indian pilot being assaulted by villagers before Pakistani soldiers intervened. India confirmed losing two jets but claimed its air defenses had downed a Pakistani F-16.

"Pakistan would respond to Indian attacks at the time and place of our own choosing," warned Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, Pakistans military spokesman. "These attacks would not go unanswered."

The aerial clashes marked the most severe military confrontation between the two nations since their 1999 Kargil War. Heavy artillery shelling across the Line of Control (LoC) further inflamed tensions, killing civilians on both sides.

Global calls for restraint

The U.S., Russia, China, and the U.N. swiftly urged de-escalation. President Donald Trump called the conflict "a shame." China, balancing ties with both nations, expressed regret over Indias strikes but stopped short of condemning Islamabad.

Despite diplomatic pressure, nationalist fervor surged in both countries. Indian media celebrated the strikes with dramatic visuals, while Pakistani officials framed their response as a defense of sovereignty.

Indias suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, which cut off river flow to Pakistan, adds another flashpoint. With both nations armed with nuclear weapons and a history of mistrust, the risk of further escalation looms large.

For now, the world is watching nervously, hoping restraint will prevail over retaliation. But in Kashmir, where millions of people live under military occupation and sporadic violence, the cycle of conflict shows no signs of ending.

Sources for this article include:

TheNationalPulse.com

Reuters.com

CNN.com
FDAs Vaccine Czar  Peter Marks  betrayed Americans, destroyed medical ethics and human lives

Economists, stock holders for Big Pharma, and the hacks profiting from the vaccine industry lament the termination of Peter Marks , the former FDA Vaccine Czar who prioritized Big Pharma and the vaccine industrys interests over Americans health. In an era where $250 billion in stock options connect biotech giants to regulators, Peter Marks guarded the industry. During his role as vaccine czar, Marks protected a rogue vaccine industry that thrived from deception and coercion, while Americans were misled with pro-vaccine propaganda that put their health and lives at risk.

Key points:

A new website, TheRealPeterMarks.com, surfaces secret documents revealing the FDAs former vaccine chief hid evidence of vaccine injuries.

Dr. Peter Marks, ex-FDA director of CBER, ignored thousands of adverse event reports while promoting vaccines as "safe and effective."

Families of vaccine-injured children, including a 16-year-old girl, say Marks dismissed their pleas and stifled investigations into deadly side effects.

Marks called cases of vaccine-induced neuropathy and heart inflammation "sensationalized" as he fast-tracked EUA extensions for kids.

The launch of TheRealPeterMarks.com this week has laid bare the shocking reality behind the FDAs former vaccine czar, Dr. Peter Marks, whose career was defined by protecting pharmaceutical profitsand burying the truth about catastrophic vaccine injuries. The website, created by advocacy groups React19 and the Informed Consent Action Network (ICAN), exposes a trail of deceit: internal emails, FDA records, and transcripts showing Marks knew of serious safety risks but prioritized corporate interests over American lives.

A grieving mothers testimony, internal CBER memos, and uncensored audio recordings paint a damning portrait of a man who not only ignored pleas for accountability but actively worked to silence victims. Peter Marks is not a herohes a fraud, said Dr. Danice Hertz, a vaccine-injured doctor and activist. He traded peoples health for Big Pharma paydays.

Evidence of betrayal: Marks systematic dismissal of vaccine injuries

Documents reveal Marks was privy to alarming data as early as October 2020weeks before the EUA approval of Pfizer and Modernas vaccines. Despite rising reports of neurological disorders, heart inflammation, and fatalities, he repeatedly labeled these concerns overblown.

In May 2022, Marks called parents and medical experts alarmists during a call while simultaneously acknowledging child death reports were mandatory under the EUA. Minutes later, the FDA accelerated booster approvals for adolescents. The sites records also show Marks rubber-stamped the expansion of vaccine use to children under 5 days after a Journal of Pediatrics study linked the shots to heart damage in teens.

This isnt oversightits accomplice behavior, said React19s Brianne Dressen. He saw the evidence, dismissed it, then kept pushing shots into kids arms.

A tragic case in point is Maddie de Garay, a 16-year-old paralyzed by the Pfizer jab in 2021. Marks initially agreed to review her case with medical expertsthen reversed course, dismissing their findings. When Maddies parents begged for answers, FDA staff gaslit them, citing Pfizers own unscientific analysis.

Worse still, Marks bluntly told neurologists protesting rising cases of vaccine-induced neuropathy to wait for more dataeven after ICAN provided irrefutable VAERS data showing a 42-fold spike in deaths post-vaccination. He moved the goalpost every time, Dressen fumed. It didnt matter how much proof we piled on, he always found a way to ignore it.

Operation Warp Speed: A blueprint for corruption

Marks infamous role as architect of Operation Warp Speed brought unprecedented powerand unprecedented accountability failures. The programs partnership with Big Pharma ensured profit motives drove vaccine development, not public health. Records reveal Marks staunchly shielded companies from scrutiny, even when independent analyses uncovered links between mRNA tech and autoimmune disorders.

In 2021, as VAERS data surged with accounts of permanent nerve damage, Marks dismissed the claims as anecdotal. By 2022, when researchers documented proven treatments for these conditions, he continued insisting there was no proof of causation.

He wasnt just negligenthe was enabling a criminal conspiracy, said Dr. Joel Wallskog, a vaccine-injured surgeon. This man oversaw a system that actively suppressed the truth to keep injecting experimental drugs by the billions.

Critics accuse the FDA of using vague EUA guidelines to avoid transparency. They lowered the bar so companies could roll out vaccines without proper trials, Wallskog added. Marks didnt just let that happenhe demanded it.

The sites archives show Marks even avoided meeting survivors and families. When Sen. Ron Johnson invited him to a vaccine-injury roundtable in 2021, he skipped it entirely. During a virtual talk with victims, he reportedly doodled while victims described losing their mobility.

A culture of indifference sabotaged medicines foundations

The human toll of Marks decisions is stark. React19 estimates over 1.2 million Americans report long-term health issues post-vaccinemany now unable to work or care for their families. For survivors, the gut-punch is that Marks dismissed their suffering as performance art.

Nurses like Karen Long, who lost her ability to walk after her third booster, say the FDAs negligence shattered trust in healthcare itself. Doctors were trained to tell us the shots were safe, Long said. Now they dont know how to treat us. Marks broke more than our bodieshe destroyed the medical profession.

The sites revelations are poised to reignite congressional scrutiny. The FDAs refusal to act on ICANs 2022 petitionwhich called for suspending childrens vaccinationshas drawn particular criticism. Even when we provided legal notice, they still moved forward, Dressen said. Thats not oversightits malice.

Shocking new evidence reveals that Dr. Peter Marks, the disgraced former FDA vaccine czar, orchestrated one of the deadliest medical cover-ups in historypushing deadly COVID-19 shots while silencing dissent and burying safety data.

A career built on fraud

Financial ties to Big Pharma: Marks has deep connections to vaccine manufacturers, including Pfizer and Moderna, yet the FDA allowed him to rubber-stamp their experimental mRNA injections without proper long-term safety testing.

Suppressed whistleblowers: Multiple FDA scientists warned Marks about contaminated batches, spike protein dangers, and skyrocketing myocarditis cases, but he ignored them to protect Pharma profits.

Fast-tracked a deadly product: Under Marks leadership, the FDA bypassed normal protocols, approving COVID-19 vaccines in record timedespite known risks of heart damage, blood clots, and immune suppression.

The blood on his hands: How Marks lies killed Americans

Faked clinical trials: Pfizers own documents (leaked via FOIA) show fraudulent data manipulation, yet Marks greenlit the shots anyway.

VAERS deaths buried: Over 37,000 reported deaths (and counting) in the U.S. alonefive times higher than all other vaccines combinedyet Marks dismissed them as "coincidences."

Myocarditis epidemic: Peer-reviewed studies now confirm 1 in 5,000 young men suffered heart damage post-vaccine, yet Marks kept pushing boosters on children.

The cover-up: How Marks silenced the truth

Censored doctors: Cardiologists like Dr. Peter McCullough and Dr. Aseem Malhotra were blacklisted for exposing vaccine heart riskswhile Marks colluded with media to smear them.

Rigged "safety" studies: The FDAs own post-marketing surveillance was designed to hide injuries, with Marks blocking autopsies of sudden deaths in vaccinated individuals.

Shut down debate: Anyone questioning vaccine safetyincluding Nobel Prize-winning scientistswas labeled "anti-science" and deplatformed.

The fall of a criminal: Why Marks was REALLY forced out

Internal FDA revolt: Whistleblowers confirm Marks faced growing opposition from ethical scientists demanding accountability.

Congressional probes: House Republicans have subpoenaed FDA records, exposing how Marks overruled safety experts.

Public backlash: With thousands of families now suing Pfizer and Moderna, the FDA is scrambling to distance itself from Marks deadly legacy.

Sources include:

ChildrensHealthDefense.org

ChildrensHealthDefense.org

Enoch, Brighteon.ai
Renewable energy push strains aging EU grid as Spains blackout highlights urgent need for investment

Millions in Spain and Portugal lost power in a sweeping blackout, revealing Europes fragile electricity infrastructure.

Experts warn the EU must modernize its outdated grid at a cost of trillions to prevent future disasters.

Renewable energy growth has outpaced grid upgrades, increasing instability risks across Europe.

Spains aggressive shift to renewables left it vulnerable due to insufficient backup power and aging infrastructure.

Europe needs massive investments in interconnections and storage to avoid more blackouts.

The lights went out across Spain and Portugal last week in a sweeping blackout that left millions without power, exposing the fragility of Europes aging electricity infrastructure. As authorities scramble to investigate the cause, energy experts warn that the incident is a dire preview of whats to come if the European Union fails to modernize its grid in a project that could cost trillions. The blackout, which struck on April 28, underscores the risks of rapid renewable energy expansion without matching upgrades to transmission networks, storage, and backup systems.

A wake-up call for Europe

"The blackout was a wake-up call. It showed that the need to modernize and reinforce Europes electricity grid is urgent and unavoidable," said Kristina Ruby, secretary general of Eurelectric, Europes electricity industry association. The EUs power grid, largely built in the 20th century, is struggling to handle the surge in wind and solar energy, which now accounts for 47% of the blocs power mix, up from 34% in 2019. Meanwhile, fossil fuels have dropped to 29%, according to data from think tank Ember.

Spain, a leader in renewable adoption, has seen its green energy share soar to 56% of its power mix in 2024. But this progress comes at a cost. The countrys grid operator, Red Electrica, confirmed that two separate incidents triggered the blackout, though the exact cause remains under investigation. Whats clear, however, is that Europes infrastructure is dangerously outdated. Half of the EUs power lines are over 40 years old, and investment in grids has stagnated at around 300 billion annually, which is far below the 600 billion per year the International Energy Agency says is needed by 2030.

The hidden costs of renewables

While wind and solar projects can be built quickly, grid upgrades take decades. Spains aggressive push to phase out coal and nuclear power, with plans to shutter all seven of its reactors by 2035, has left it vulnerable to instability. Unlike traditional power plants, renewable energy sources like wind and solar produce direct current (DC), which must be converted to alternating current (AC) for grid use. If generation drops, the system relies on backup AC power to prevent frequency collapses. Without it, cascading failures can lead to blackouts.

Portugal, which shares a grid with Spain, has only two backup plants, a gas and a hydro facility, that are capable of responding to sudden power shortages. Prime Minister Luis Montenegro admitted the country needs more, but the reality is that much of Europe is in the same precarious position. The 2019 UK blackout, triggered by a lightning strike and a separate grid failure, serves as another grim reminder of the risks.

A trillion-dollar problem

The European Commission estimates that 22.3 trillion in grid investments will be needed by 2050 to prevent future disasters. Last year, European firms invested 80 billion ($90.5 billion) in grids, up from previous years, but analysts at Bruegel warn that annual spending must rise to 100 billion. A key issue is the lack of interconnections between countries. Spain, for example, has only 5% of its power connections outside the Iberian Peninsula, leaving it isolated during emergencies.

The EU has set a target for member states to import at least 15% of their power from neighboring countries by 2030, up from the current 10%. Spain plans to double its interconnection capacity with France via a new link in the Bay of Biscay, but such projects take years to complete. Meanwhile, the continents storage capacity lags far behind demand. Europe currently has just 10.8 gigawatts of battery storage, a figure that must grow to 200 GW to ensure stability, according to the European Association for Storage of Energy.

A system on the brink

The Spanish blackout is not an isolated incident but a symptom of a deeper crisis. Blind faith in renewables, coupled with sluggish infrastructure investment, has left Europes power grid teetering on the edge. Without urgent upgrades, more blackouts are inevitable. As the EU races toward its 2050 green energy goals, the real question is whether its grid can survive the transition.

Sources for this article include:

YourNews.com

Reuters.com

Power-Technology.com
Trump ends Yemen strikes as Houthis capitulate, but rebels vow to keep fighting Israel

President Trump announced an immediate halt to U.S. airstrikes against Yemens Houthis, claiming they had surrendered, but Houthi leaders denied capitulation and vowed to keep fighting Israel.

The ceasefire, brokered by Oman, only prevents U.S.-Houthi clashes, not Houthi attacks on Israel, which they frame as resistance to Israeli actions in Gaza.

Israeli officials were caught off guard by Trumps decision, coming just after Israeli airstrikes on Yemen in retaliation for a Houthi missile attack near Tel Aviv.

Despite months of U.S. military efforts, the Houthis remain defiant, downing U.S. drones and continuing maritime attacks, with their leadership warning of further retaliation.

The ceasefire shifts focus to diplomacy, but the Houthis commitment to opposing Israel keeps the region on the edge of escalation.

In a sudden and unexpected move, President Donald Trump announced yesterday that the U.S. would immediately cease airstrikes against Yemens Houthi rebels, claiming the group had "capitulated" and no longer wished to fight.

The decision, mediated by Oman, establishes a fragile ceasefire between Washington and the Houthis, but senior Houthi officials swiftly denied surrendering, vowing instead to continue their campaign against Israel in solidarity with Gaza. The announcement reportedly caught Israeli leaders off guard, even as Yemens leadership reaffirmed its commitment to resisting what it called Israeli "genocidal crimes." Despite months of U.S. military efforts, including thousands of airstrikes, the Houthis remain defiant, framing their actions as a moral duty to oppose Israeli aggression.

A surprise ceasefire, but no surrender

Standing alongside Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at the White House, Trump declared, "We will honor that and we will stop the bombings. They have capitulated." He claimed the Houthis had privately communicated they "dont want to fight anymore" and would halt attacks on commercial shipping, which was a key U.S. demand. However, the rebels actual stance quickly contradicted Trumps assertion.

Senior Houthi leader Mohammed Ali al-Houthi fired back, stating, "The Yemeni people will not be intimidated by American and Israeli terrorism," and accused Israel of committing "the same genocidal crimes they commit in Gaza." He did not directly address Trumps claim of surrender but made clear the groups focus remained on Gaza. Meanwhile, Omans Foreign Ministry confirmed it had brokered a deal ensuring that "neither side will target the other," though it notably did not restrict Houthi operations against Israel.

Israeli strikes and Houthi defiance

The ceasefire announcement came just hours after Israeli warplanes launched a major attack on Yemens Sanaa International Airport, destroying critical infrastructure in retaliation for a Houthi ballistic missile strike near Tel Avivs Ben Gurion Airport. Israeli media reported that officials were "surprised" by Trumps decision, with Yedioth Ahronoth noting authorities "do not understand the implications of his statement."

Yemens Supreme Political Council Chairman Mahdi al-Mashat responded defiantly: "There will be no retreat from supporting Gaza, no matter the cost." He warned Israel to expect a "devastating, painful" response and urged settlers to "stay in shelters or leave immediately to your homelands." The Houthis have long framed their maritime attacks as resistance to Israels war in Gaza.

A failed military strategy and shift to diplomacy

The U.S. campaign against the Houthis, launched in early 2023 without congressional approval, has been costly and ineffective. Despite thousands of airstrikes and the deployment of carrier strike groups, the rebels downed advanced U.S. drones and continued harassing Red Sea shipping lanes. U.S. Special Envoy for Yemen Timothy Lenderking admitted last year, "We know that there is no military solution."

The ceasefire now opens a path for broader diplomacy, including stalled nuclear talks with Iran, which backs the Houthis. Yet the agreements limitations are clear: while it halts U.S.-Houthi clashes, it does nothing to curb the rebels strikes on Israel or its allies. For now, the Houthis remain entrenched in their mission, and the region remains on the brink of further escalation.

Sources for this article include:

RT.com

TheCradle.co

CNN.com

BBC.com
Trump halts U.S. funding for dangerous gain-of-function research in China tied to COVID origins

President Trump signed an executive order banning federal funding for gain-of-function research in poorly regulated countries like China, citing risks to public health and national security.

The order follows evidence linking U.S.-backed research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology to the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused global devastation.

Internal records show NIH and USAID funded risky bat coronavirus research in Wuhan despite a 2014 moratorium, with experts calling it a potential "smoking gun" for the pandemics origin.

Decades of ignored warnings, including past lab accidents and outbreaks, highlight the dangers of unregulated virus manipulation.

The ban aims to prevent future man-made pandemics by cutting funding for high-risk experiments abroad, earning bipartisan praise as a win for public safety.

President Donald Trump took decisive action Monday to protect Americans from another pandemic by signing an executive order banning federal funding for gain-of-function research experiments that enhance viruses' lethality in China and other poorly regulated countries.

The move comes after years of mounting evidence that U.S.-backed research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) may have sparked the COVID-19 pandemic, which has claimed millions of lives and devastated economies worldwide.

Its a big deal. It could have been that we wouldnt have had the problem we had, if we had this done, Trump remarked in the Oval Office, holding up the signed order. The directive halts taxpayer dollars from flowing to high-risk virus manipulation abroad, where oversight is weak, and warns that unchecked gain-of-function experiments threaten public health, economic stability, and national security.

The Wuhan connection

Gain-of-function research, which modifies viruses to increase their transmissibility or deadliness, has long been controversial. Documents reveal that the U.S. government, under Dr. Anthony Faucis National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), funneled millions to the WIV through the EcoHealth Alliance despite a 2014 U.S. moratorium on such experiments. Emails show NIH officials repeatedly warned EcoHealth about violating the funding pause, yet the research continued.

This dangerous game of function research, which aims at taking pathogens and making them more virulent, more transmissible on humans, many scientists believe is responsible for the COVID pandemic, said NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya. FBI, CIA, and Energy Department assessments, along with former CDC Director Dr. Robert Redfield, have all pointed to a lab leak as the most likely origin of COVID-19.

Fauci, who once defended gain-of-function studies as a risk worth taking in 2011, has dismissed lab-leak theories as conspiracy theories. Yet internal records confirm NIAID and USAID directed over $1.4 million to EcoHealth for bat coronavirus research at WIV between 2014 and 2021. A rejected 2018 proposal, Project DEFUSE, sought to engineer high-risk coronavirusesa plan some experts call a smoking gun for COVIDs lab origin.

Peter Daszak, EcoHealths president, admitted under congressional questioning that Chinas biosafety standards were lax compared to the U.S. and that unpublished virus data may still be hidden in Wuhan.

A history of warnings ignored

The executive order follows decades of ignored red flags. In 2004, Science reported lab accidents prompting calls for stricter containment protocols. The 1977 Russian flu, likely a lab escape, and the 2009 H1N1 vaccine-linked narcolepsy cases underscore the dangers of poorly regulated virology. Trumps order stops gain-of-function funding until stricter oversight is implemented.

We cant point to a single good thing thats come from [gain-of-function research], said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., citing COVIDs catastrophic toll. I commend President Trump for his courage and his vision in ending U.S. bioweapons research.

Trumps order marks a critical step toward accountability. By cutting off funding for reckless experiments in adversarial nations, the U.S. can mitigate the risk of another man-made pandemic. As Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) declared, This is a great win for the American people and common sense. The world cannot afford another Wuhan, and this ban ensures U.S. dollars wont fund the next global disaster.

Sources for this article include:

LifeSiteNews.com

FoxNews.com

NYPost.com
Sorry, something doesn't look right.

Something seems unusual about your device or browser. Please contact support.
Due to scheduled maintenance from Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 10 PM to Sunday, March 16, 2025, at 2 AM, there may be interruptions for our News Gazette Digital subscribers. During this time frame, please click on any News Gazette website content without logging into your News Gazette Digital subscription account. Thank you for your patience during this scheduled maintenance.
China starts to levy anti-dumping duties on Indian cypermethrin; move shows nations resolve to safeguard domestic firms interests: expert

16:43, May 07, 2025 By Ma Jingjing ( Global Times

Starting from Wednesday, China will impose anti-dumping duties on imports of cypermethrin originating in India for a period of five years, the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) announced. A Chinese expert said this sends a clear signal of the government's firm resolve to protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies in response to unfair trade practices by countries such as India.

In response to applications from the domestic industry, MOFCOM launched an anti-dumping investigation into cypermethrin imported from India on May 7, 2024. During the investigation, the ministry strictly adhered to Chinese laws and WTO rules, extensively consulted relevant stakeholders, fully safeguarded the rights of all parties involved, and reached objective, fair, and impartial conclusions through rigorous analysis, a MOFCOM spokesperson said on Wednesday.

The investigation concluded that imports of cypermethrin from India have involved significant dumping, which caused substantial harm to the domestic industry, and established a causal link between these dumping practices and material injury, the spokesman said. Anti-dumping duty rates will range from 48.4 percent to 166.2 percent, the spokesperson said.

Cypermethrin is primarily used in agriculture to produce insecticides for pest control in crops such as cotton, fruit trees, vegetables, tobacco, corn, and flowers.

The MOFCOM on Tuesday announced a decision to impose anti-dumping duties on imports of cypermethrin from India starting from Wednesday.

China's imposition of anti-dumping duties on Indian cypermethrin is a legitimate trade remedy measure and fully compliant with WTO rules as the findings have shown that India's dumping of the product has significantly disrupted China's domestic market and caused harm to domestic industry, He Weiwen, a senior fellow at the Center for China and Globalization, told the Global Times.

"MOFCOM's move sends a clear signal that the Chinese government is determined to protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies in response to unfair trade practices by countries like India," He said.

Qian Feng, director of the research department at the National Strategy Institute at Tsinghua University, said India has shown increasing tendency toward resorting to trade remedy measures to block Chinese exports.

Official data showed that India has been the leading country in initiating trade remedy investigations against China for five consecutive years. In 2024, India launched 47 trade remedy investigations, of which 37 targeted China and involved volume of $9.78 billion - both setting a record high. In the first quarter of 2025, India has intensively launched seven anti-dumping investigations against Chinese products.

"India's frequent trade remedy investigations against Chinese products are detrimental to the healthy and orderly development of China-India economic and trade relations," Qian said, noting that Chinese MOFCOM's latest decision serves as a wake-up call regarding India's irresponsible approach.

On April 21, India imposed a 12 percent temporary tariff on certain steel imports, locally known as a safeguard duty, to curb a surge in inexpensive shipments primarily from China, Reuters reported.

Notably, India's move coincided with US Vice President JD Vance's visit to India. According to an Associated Press report, Vance held talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 21 as New Delhi looks to avoid American tariffs, negotiate a bilateral trade deal with Washington, and strengthen ties with the US administration.

"It remains unclear whether India aims to protect its domestic steel industry or to avoid US tariffs. However, it is certain that India will gain no benefits by catering to the US," He Weiwen said.

He said China has been India's largest trading partner for many years and they enjoy great potential in economic and trade potential. "China and India have a combined population of almost 3 billion, while the two economies are strongly complementary. Together, they can expand Belt and Road Initiative cooperation and South-South cooperation," He said.

While India's temporary tariff has a limited impact on Chinese steel industry, it sends a negative signal amid trade tensions between China and the US, Qian said, stressing that as two largest developing countries, China and India should support each other and intensify cooperation, which conforms to the fundamental interests of both people.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
Download Now

The News-Gazette mobile app brings you the latest local breaking news, updates, and more. Read the News-Gazette on your mobile device just as it appears in print.




As researchers make progress in understanding how Alzheimer's disease develops, there are growing opportunities for healthy research participants to learn their risk of developing Alzheimer's disease dementia in the future. While many organizations often advocate for investigators to share risk estimates with individual participants, there are ethical concerns around doing so, given that there are no medical interventions to change that risk.

A new study from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis examines the choices such healthy research volunteers make when given the opportunity to learn their risk of developing Alzheimer's disease dementia. The researchers found a large discrepancy between the percentage of participants who said they would like to learn their risk if such estimates became available and the percentage who followed through to learn those results when given the actual opportunity.

The knowledge could help researchers design studies that offer the option of receiving results in ways that don't pressure participants into making one choice over another. The study also emphasizes the importance of ensuring participants truly want their research results because hypothetical interest does not necessarily translate into wanting to learn one's risk of Alzheimer's disease dementia when it is actually offered.

The study is published May 6 in JAMA Network Open.

"In general, there is movement toward giving research participants and patients their test results, even in situations when nothing can be done with those results," said senior author Jessica Mozersky, PhD, an assistant professor of medicine at the Bioethics Research Center and an investigator at the Charles F. and Joanne Knight Alzheimer Disease Research Center, both at WashU Medicine. "But our study suggests that in sensitive cases - such as when estimating the risk of developing a debilitating and deadly disease - people should have the option to not know."

In recent years, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine have recommended that research study designs in general include the option to return test results to participants, even when such results can't be acted on. Similarly, a committee of study participants, their care partners and members of dementia advocacy organizations recently proposed a bill of rights for Alzheimer's disease research participants that advocates for access to such results.

At the same time, ethical concerns remain because of the possibility of causing anxiety and other harm to participants who learn they are at high risk of developing a debilitating and incurable dementia. Unlike preventive options for individuals who learn they are at high genetic risk of certain cancers, for example, there are currently no approved preventive treatments or medical interventions available to stave off Alzheimer's disease dementia.

To get a clearer picture of who declines Alzheimer's disease dementia risk results and why, Mozersky and her colleagues turned to long-running research at WashU Medicine's Knight Alzheimer Disease Research Center. Since 1979, the Memory & Aging Project has provided a framework to study brain function in participants as they age. Over the decades, the project has evolved and expanded into several long-running studies of the development and progression of Alzheimer's disease, including the development of biomarker tests to determine risk.

For the current study, Mozersky's team focused on cognitively normal volunteers who underwent a battery of tests, including genetic tests, blood draws and brain scans, from which researchers could estimate their probability of developing Alzheimer's disease dementia over the following five years. Participants originally joined the long-term study understanding that they would not have the option to receive their own risk results. Even so, Mozersky said, over the years many have expressed a theoretical interest in learning their results. The study, co-led with Sarah M. Hartz, MD, PhD, a professor of psychiatry at WashU Medicine, offered results to a subset of participants in the Memory & Aging project - 274 participants - to assess the psychological impact of learning their risk, and the factors they consider when making that decision.

Before deciding, participants received an information guide explaining how risk is estimated and listing some examples of pros and cons of learning their results. For example, on the pro side, some people may learn their risk is lower than they might have expected. And if biomarker test results suggest a participant is at high risk of developing Alzheimer's disease dementia over the next five years, they may become eligible to participate in clinical trials of investigational prevention strategies. On the other hand, knowledge of high risk may cause anxiety or complicate the purchase of some types of insurance.

When the results were theoretical, 81% of people in the larger, long-term research said they would choose to know. In contrast, when real results were offered to the 274 participants in the Memory & Aging Project, only 60% opted to receive them. Participants with a parental history of Alzheimer's disease and participants who self-identified as African American were more likely than others to decline the results.

A sample of participants who declined to learn their results were interviewed afterward, and the most common reasons given included that knowing would be a burden to themselves or their family members, their own negative experiences and perceptions of Alzheimer's disease dementia, that they feel good about their memory currently, that they're already prepared for the disease, and that there is still uncertainty in predictions of disease risk.

"The lack of preventive treatments is also a big factor in declining to receive the results of biomarker tests among people without symptoms of Alzheimer's disease dementia," Mozersky said. "When we conducted interviews with some participants to better understand their choice not to know, many said that a new effective treatment might change their mind, if it became available."

Because the results are only available through research studies, they are not added to the participant's medical record by the investigators. Still, such results could end up in a patient's medical record if a participant shares them with their doctor.

"We plan to continue our research into the complexities of these questions, especially as returning results to research participants becomes more common, even if those results can't be acted on yet," Mozersky said.
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) hosted an Oncology Policy Summit in Washington, D.C., today, focused on improving care coordination between primary care and oncology providers. The program featured a diverse group of patients, advocates, practitioners, and policy makers weighing in on how to improve cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and long-term survival.

Elizabeth Fowler, PhD, JD, of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, former Deputy Administrator and Director of the Innovation Center at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), provided a keynote address on future opportunities and challenges of value-based care. Kim Schrier, MD, of the U.S. House of Representatives (WA-08), shared her perspective as a pediatrician and lawmaker.

"Evidence-based prevention, screening, and treatment saves lives," stated Crystal S. Denlinger, MD, CEO, NCCN, who provided introductory remarks. "There are more cancer survivors alive today than at any other time in history. It's crucial that we do right by them and their loved ones by breaking down the silos in medical care, ensuring that people receive appropriate care for all of their medical conditions and age-appropriate screenings. Primary care providers and oncologists must work together to address the needs of people at risk for and affected by cancer in a holistic manner to ensure optimal outcomes."

NCCN publishes the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines), which cover the latest evidence-based, expert consensus-driven recommendations for cancer screening, risk reduction, treatment, and survivorship, available free at NCCN.org/guidelines. Versions of these guidelines designed for people facing cancer and caregivers are available for free at NCCN.org/patientguidelines. They can be used to help facilitate conversations between providers and patients.

"When we talk about cancer care, we often focus on the oncology specialists-and rightly so. But primary care is where prevention starts, where early signs are caught, and where patients turn for guidance through every stage. We're not just part of the conversation-we're essential to it," explained Stephanie Quinn, Senior VP, External Affairs and Practice Experience, American Academy of Family Physicians.

Summit speakers discussed challenges of care coordination, including when and how care is handed off from an oncologist back to primary care after treatment is completed and how to establish trust between patients and providers in today's busy climate.

"According to National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship's State of Survivorship Survey, only 19% of survivors surveyed are being taken care of by primary care providers (PCP) post treatment," said Veronika Panagiotou, PhD, Director of Advocacy and Programs, National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship. "Survivors stated that they have concerns about PCP's knowledge and ability to recognize cancer related reoccurrence, side effects and late effects. Cancer survivors are living longer than ever before because of innovative treatments and will continue to need quality care for the rest of their lives. There are opportunities for new primary care models that will support the 18.1 million cancer survivors of today and millions more in the future."

Panel participants noted that the difficulties in care transitions stem from how the models and systems for care were established. There was also a focus on particularly vulnerable patients, who may encounter societal issues that hamper their access to care.

According to David Garcia, PhD, FACSM, Associate Professor, Health Promotion Sciences, Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Director, Zuckerman Family Center for Prevention and Health Promotion, Director, Nosotros Comprometidos a Su Salud: "There are several structural and systemic barriers to health care, which impact cancer prevention and survivorship, particularly for those who come from underserved and under resourced communities. There is a significant need to address these barriers by developing transformative care teams that understand the solution is not a 'one size fits all' approach. A team-based approach which accounts for an individual's demographic, social/cultural factors, and unique healthcare needs will ultimately help us take steps closer to achieving equitable health care access for all."

Speakers proposed creative solutions addressing the lack of common experiences and education that can cause challenges for communication between oncologists and primary care providers. Some suggested a separate specialty focused on cancer survivorship, similar to fellowships in geriatrics. They also noted the role professional societies can play in incentivizing education across specialties and state licensure processes that require hour-long courses on specific subjects.

"We need to work harder to bring PCPs and oncologists together, ideally in person through inter-professional meetings, at local hospitals, medical societies, or now virtually," said Larissa Nekhlyudov, MD, MPH, General Internist/Primary Care Physician, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute/Brigham and Women's Hospital. "This can be facilitated through accreditation policies, for example the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer; through funding requirements, for example the National Cancer Institute comprehensive cancer center designation; or through state based comprehensive cancer coalitions. These initiatives can promote inter-professional development, including education and training in content as well as communication and care coordination."

Panel members also highlighted the role that patient navigators can play in ensuring people have access to the care they need.

"Navigation is a critical component; potentially the only effective intervention to ensure care coordination across the cancer care continuum," explained Candice Roth, MSN, RN CENP, Executive Director, Academy of Oncology Nurse & Patient Navigators. "Imagine the oncology navigator as the spoke in the middle of a wheel addressing barriers to care, ensuring access to care and treatment, as well as needed education and resources as part of shared decision making. The Oncology Navigation Standards of Professional Practice include Interdisciplinary and Interorganizational Collaboration as one of the standards where oncology navigators promote, enhance, improve, participate, collaborate, and educate all members of the care team, including the primacy care team, patient, and caregivers."

I am reminded of a quote from a dear mentor, Dr. Chintakuntlawar, about my role, 'A great doctor is composed of 40% compassion, 40% experience, and 20% knowledge.' We as a nation will only see more cancer as the population grows and ages. It is essential that our patients facing cancer have access to the high-quality care that they deserve. We as a profession need to have the compassion to advocate for this access outside the clinic. Consider joining and volunteering in an advocacy organization. Physician voices are strong, and even stronger in numbers." Skyler Taylor, MD, Hematology/Oncology Fellow, Mayo Clinic

The NCCN Policy & Advocacy Team will return to Washington D.C. in September for a Summit on the evolving artificial intelligence landscape in cancer care. That will be followed by a Patient Advocacy Summit in December focused on caring for veterans and first responders.
A study led by Virginia Commonwealth University and Rutgers University has revealed new insights into how romantic partners can influence a person's genetic predisposition to unhealthy alcohol use. The research team specifically found that the substance use habits, personality traits and mental health status of long-term partners can enhance or diminish the impact of a person's genetic risk for binge drinking. The findings could help reshape strategies for couples therapy and couple-based alcohol interventions.

This research sheds new light on the complicated and unforeseen ways that spouses and long-term partners can shape our health and well-being." Mallory Stephenson, Ph.D., postdoctoral fellow at the Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics within the VCU School of Medicine

Stephenson co-led the research with Jessica E. Salvatore, Ph.D., previously of VCU and now an associate professor of psychiatry at the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. The findings were published May 5 in Clinical Psychological Science.

A person's genes account for approximately 50% of their risk for alcohol use disorder and other forms of risky drinking, but the influence of these genetic factors can change depending on a person's environment.

"For example, if a person has a high genetic risk for alcohol use disorder and experiences a traumatic event, such as the death of a close relative or exposure to a natural disaster, their biology could play more of a role in whether or not they develop an alcohol problem in response to that stressor," Stephenson said. "However, if that person isn't experiencing anything stressful in their life, their genetic risk may not have as much influence on their drinking behavior."

Previous VCU-led research revealed that people with a genetic predisposition to risky alcohol behavior are less likely to drink frequently, become intoxicated often or suffer from alcohol dependence symptoms if they are in a romantic relationship. In this new study, the researchers sought to better understand whether any particular characteristics exhibited by a romantic partner can impact a person's genetic risk for drinking.

To answer this question, Stephenson and her colleagues examined anonymized data from FinnTwin16, a longitudinal study of twins identified from Finland's Central Population Registry. They specifically looked at Finnish twins in their 30s who were in long-term relationships and had a history of alcohol use. The researchers analyzed survey responses from 1,620 twins and their romantic partners, including responses on their drinking and smoking habits, personality characteristics and mental health status.

"Twin studies are a really useful tool to disentangle the genetic and environmental influences on our lives," Stephenson said. "By studying fraternal twins, which share 50% their genetic makeup, and identical twins, which share 100% of their genetic makeup, we can gain insights into how genetic and environmental factors interact with each other and play a role in developing certain behaviors."

One of the researchers' findings was consistent with previous studies: that a person in early midlife was more likely to consume alcohol and engage in binge drinking if their romantic partner also frequently drank alcohol or smoked cigarettes. (When specifically looking at identical twin pairs, the researchers found that romantic partners had a greater influence on the drinking behavior of male twins compared with female twins.)

But through statistical modeling, the researchers also found evidence of more interplay. They saw that that genetic risk for binge drinking had a greater effect in people whose romantic partners smoked cigarettes more frequently, were less conscientious, were more extroverted or reported higher neuroticism or psychological distress.

On the other hand, heritability of binge drinking had less of an effect on people whose partners reported more frequent alcohol use, a finding that was surprising to the research team.

"We didn't expect to see this result; however, we think this could mean that the drinking behavior of romantic partners could have a larger effect on a person's environmental influences rather than their genetic influences," Stephenson said. "You can think of these environmental and genetic influences like a pie chart. If the impact of one of these factors makes up a smaller piece of the pie, then the impact of another factor makes up a larger piece."

The research underscores the important but complex ways in which romantic partners affect a person's health. From a clinical perspective, the researchers say these findings could inform strategies for couples therapy and couple-based alcohol interventions, which are typically designed to focus on relationship dynamics rather than personal characteristics.

"Even if you have a good relationship with your partner, this research shows that their substance use, personality traits and mental health can still have an impact on you," Stephenson said.

The researchers say more work is needed to better understand the various ways romantic partners influence drinking outcomes. They are currently looking into how relationship characteristics and the role of parenthood may come together to shape a person's drinking habits.

The new study was funded by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, which is part of the National Institutes of Health, and by the Academy of Finland.
A high-profile HCQ study that claimed 16,990 COVID deaths has been debunked for misusing data and ignoring dose effects, highlighting why scientific publishing needs a transparency overhaul.

Study: Hydroxychloroquine use during the first COVID-19 wave: a case study highlighting the urgent need to enhance research practices within the publication ecosystem. Image Credit: SNEHIT PHOTO / Shutterstock

In a recent study in the journal Archives of Public Health, researchers reexamined the methodological practices and outcomes of Pradelle et al.'s widely publicized yet now retracted hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) study. This study fueled the debate on the use of antirheumatic drugs by claiming that HCQ was associated with more than 16,990 deaths during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Subsequent critiques demonstrated substantial methodological and interpretative flaws in Pradelle et al.'s work, leading to its eventual retraction. The process, however, lacked transparency, as detailed explanations for the retraction and related correspondence were not made public.

The present study critiques the methodological claims and approach of Pradelle et al.'s dataset, highlighting its significant methodological flaws and using these findings to demonstrate ongoing challenges in scientific publishing.

Background  The HCQ Debate

The unprecedented growth in global internet access has facilitated the widespread distribution of scientific findings through online social networks and media platforms, oftentimes shaping public opinion, individual behaviors, and, in turn, policy decisions. This imposes an implicit responsibility on scientists to maintain the highest standards of rigor in their methodological approaches. Unfortunately, despite this, more than 10,000 publications are retracted each year following critiques of their data reliability and accuracy.

Not only do these retractions represent a substantial loss of funding and research effort, but their erroneous findings, once disseminated, can be challenging to reverse. The present study leverages the 'Lancet Gate' debate to highlight this point. The discussion centers around a publication in The Lancet concerning hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), an antimalarial drug that was being tested for use against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) spread. While widespread scientific outcry led to its retraction, several governments cited its findings in shaping their public policy on HCQ use.

The debate escalated to new extents when, in January 2024, Pradelle et al. published meta-analyses estimating the death toll of HCQ's compassionate use during COVID-19's first wave. The study, which claimed that 16,990 individuals potentially died following HCQ consumption, comprised Belgium, France, the USA, Spain, Turkey, and Italy, and was met with both widespread media coverage and policy impact. While the publication was also eventually retracted for "lack of sufficiently reliable data" and "questionable assumptions," the damage was done.

"The aim of this article is to address the significant concerns surrounding the transparency and integrity of scientific publishing, particularly in the context of the retracted article by Pradelle et al. and the connected papers, and to point out weaknesses of the current publication ecosystem to prevent misinformation and maintain public trust in scientific institutions."

Methodological flaws

The first methodological flaw explored in this critique is that of Pradelle et al.'s estimated in-hospital mortality. While the publication estimated that more than 16,990 individuals may have died from compassionate HCQ use, these findings were presented without corresponding sensitivity analyses or dose-subgroup corrections, preventing data reliability. Even more erroneously, the estimator for HCQ-related mortality (odds ratio [ORs]) used in Pradelle et al.'s publication was borrowed from Axfors et al.'s prior meta-analyses and was mainly derived from high-dose randomized controlled trials, but Pradelle et al. applied this same effect size to all patient groups regardless of the actual dose received, without accounting for the dose-dependency of the effect size or conducting robustness checks on its validity.

The present critique further addresses the importance of distinguishing between statistical and clinical significance. It underscores the misapplication of effect sizes, a lack of sensitivity analyses, and the absence of subgroup estimations as cumulative factors invalidating the real-world clinical reliability of Pradelle et al.'s findings.

The reanalysis found that lower-dose HCQ regimens showed no clear evidence of increased mortality, while only higher doses were associated with a possible increase in risk. Importantly, sensitivity analyses revealed that the statistical conclusions depended heavily on a single large study, raising concerns about the robustness of the original findings.

"As seen in multiple countries during the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of HCQ was highly variable in terms of dosage, patient selection, and co-administration with other treatments, factors that were inadequately accounted for in the meta-analysis driving the conclusions of Pradelle et al.. Therefore, the reported statistical associations do not necessarily reflect the true benefit or harm of HCQ in clinical practice, further reinforcing the need for rigorous methodological standards and cautious interpretation of statistical findings in shaping public health policies."

These findings reinforce the need for authors to take responsibility for critically evaluating their data sources and the assumptions embedded in their statistical models. Statistical methodology must experience greater transparency before science and medicine can further progress, and the spread of misinformation can be halted.

Beyond methodological critique, the study highlights broader systemic issues in scientific publishing, including the rise of fraudulent publishing practices, reviewer fatigue, predatory journals, "paper mills," and the erosion of trust in scientific institutions.

Future recommendations

To counter ongoing threats to scientific integrity, the study makes recommendations centered around reproducibility, the erosion of peer-reviewed processes, and urgent needs for their reform and increasing transparency and accountability for peer-reviewed science. It underscores the potential of open science practices in developing effective solutions, especially those of transparency and accountability.

"Platforms such as the Open Science Framework (OSF), Zenodo, Dryad, and Figshare are examples of robust infrastructures that ensure scientific material remains available for scrutiny, reanalysis, and further research.

Open peer review models, where reviewer reports and identities are disclosed, could also improve the quality of evaluations and develop a more constructive and accountable review process."

The article further recommends incentives for peer reviewers, such as Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits, public acknowledgment, and opportunities for professional advancement, as well as the adoption of open data and code sharing to improve reproducibility.

These reforms and others are crucial in fostering reviewer participation, improving the strictness standards of the peer reviewing process, and enhancing overall transparency for a safer and healthier tomorrow.
The age at which babies take their first steps is strongly influenced by their genes, according to new research from the University of Surrey. In the first study of its kind, scientists analysed the genetic information of more than 70,000 infants. They identified 11 genetic markers influencing when babies start walking, thus offering multiple targets for future in-depth biological investigation.

In a paper published in Nature Human Behaviour, the study found that genetics accounts for about a quarter of the differences in when children take their first steps.

For years, researchers knew that environmental factors could influence when babies begin to walk, but this new finding shows that genetics also has a major impact. It suggests that, just like with other traits such as height, some children may naturally start walking earlier or later because of their genetic propensity.

Most babies take their first step sometime between ages 8 months and 24 months, so it is a wide window in which this exciting milestone happens. It is a big moment for both parents and baby; it symbolizes a new phase in a child's life." Professor Angelica Ronald, senior researcher on the study, University of Surrey

Dr. Anna Gui, an author of the study and a researcher at the University of Rome Tor Vergata and Birkbeck, University of London said:

"Until now, we didn't understand what causes the wide differences between children in when they take their first step. Parents might often worry that walking early or late is a bad sign or that they have done something wrong. We see that genetics play a considerable role in influencing the timing of this milestone."

Walking isn't just a key milestone in the development of a child, but it is connected in terms of genetic influences with many other important aspects of human development. The study found that the genetic factors influencing when children take their first step are partly the same genetic factors that influence brain development including the amount of folding and ridges in the outer surface of the brain (the "cortex"). Moreover, walking later within the typical range was linked genetically with less chance of developing ADHD. Finally, the study showed that relatively later onset of walking was influenced by some of the same genes involved in higher educational attainment.

Professor Angelica Ronald said:

"It is exciting to be able to discover the genes that influence when children learn to walk. Starting to walk independently is a major milestone for young children. We hope these new genetic findings can advance fundamental understanding about the causes of walking and be used to better support children with motor disorders and learning disabilities.

"While parents should still see their GP if they are concerned, a slightly later start is not always a sign of problems. There is a lot of variety in when children take their first step on their own."

Led by scientists in the UK, the study was made possible through a large collaboration with scientists in the UK, Netherlands and Norway, and through UK and international funding including from the Simons Foundation for Autism Research Initiative.
Although rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease with no cure, a tailored, multidisciplinary treatment approach at Cedars-Sinai's Inflammatory Arthritis Clinical Center helps patients get back to the activities they enjoy.

It may take trying different medications and a bit of time, but I tell patients that we will work together with a goal to get back to their work, their family life and all the things that they like to do, with no limitations." Jon Giles, MD, MPH, rheumatologist, director of the Inflammatory Arthritis Clinical Center in the Division of Rheumatology and the Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai

Giles, an associate professor of Medicine, joined Cedars-Sinai from Columbia University in 2024 to establish the Inflammatory Arthritis Clinical Center, which also treats people with all other types of inflammatory arthritis, such as psoriatic arthritis and related spondyloarthropathies; and crystal arthritis, such as gout and calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease. Giles also leads research into the causes of autoimmune diseases.

Rheumatoid arthritis affects more than 3 million people in the U.S. and is more common in women than men. It causes inflammation, swelling and stiffness in the joints-prominently in the hands and feet but also in larger joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can also be associated with other potentially severe health conditions, including interstitial lung disease, accelerated cardiovascular disease, and an increased risk of certain malignancies and osteoporosis.

As co-director of the Rheumatoid Arthritis Translational Research Program in the Kao Autoimmunity Institute at Cedars-Sinai, Giles co-leads a comprehensive research program focusing on screening, diagnosis and management of these common but often overlooked-and sometimes deadly-complications.

In recognition of National Arthritis Awareness Month in May, the Cedars-Sinai Newsroom spoke with Giles about the latest treatment and research advances.

When does rheumatoid arthritis typically develop?

Some people think of rheumatoid arthritis as a disease that only older people get, but we treat adults of all ages. While women and men tend to develop the disease around 50, there also is a peak for women during childbearing years.

How are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis different?

Osteoarthritis can affect some of the same joints as rheumatoid arthritis, but it's caused by non-inflammatory damage to cartilage and underlying bone. It tends to bother people toward the end of the day or when they use their joints. With rheumatoid arthritis and most forms of inflammatory arthritis, joint stiffness is at its worst in the morning and tends to improve with activity. Also, unlike osteoarthritis, it is caused by a complex and not completely understood dysregulation of the immune system, leading to elevated inflammation and immune activation in the joints and throughout the body.

How effective are treatments for rheumatoid arthritis?

Today I can confidently tell patients there are many resources to treat this disease, and that very few patients do not respond to any of the available treatments. Twenty years ago, that was not the case. Sometimes, our trainees don't consider rheumatoid arthritis a severe disease because they see mostly people who have been diagnosed early and treated aggressively, who don't have advanced deformity and destruction in their joints and all the accompanying health conditions we once saw.

That said, if not treated effectively, rheumatoid arthritis can be quite severe. At Cedars-Sinai we "treat to target," meaning if a patient is not in low disease activity or remission-usually no or only a few swollen and/or tender joints-we adjust their therapy. We don't let active inflammation fester. Studies have shown this to be very effective at improving quality of life by reducing inflammation, symptoms and joint damage.

How often should patients with rheumatoid arthritis be evaluated by their doctor?

We recommend seeing a rheumatologist and getting screening blood work done every three to four months. We don't use a "set it and forget it" treatment approach. Sometimes patients stop responding to a medication, so both the patient and the physician must be willing to make changes. There may be complexities and subtleties in treatment-such as combination therapies with an injected medication and oral medications, each taken at different times-but with all the available medications today, patients generally do very well.

Why is multidisciplinary care important with this disease?

We take a multidisciplinary approach in treating rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung diseases, which can be very severe and lead to lung transplant, or sometimes even death. We collaborate with our Women's Guild Lung Institute to determine the best treatments for these patients because some of the medications to treat their lungs might not be the medication that we would use to treat their joints, and vice versa.

What research is underway?

At the Kao Autoimmunity Institute, along with our Lung Institute colleagues, lung transplant physicians and lung pathology specialists, we're focused on understanding how rheumatoid arthritis and interstitial lung diseases develop and how to treat them. As we've been treating rheumatoid arthritis more aggressively over the years, most of the very severe organ-threatening manifestations outside of the joints have declined-except for interstitial lung diseases. We also study the mechanisms behind accelerated atherosclerosis in people with rheumatoid arthritis, and how to best screen for and treat it. We are interested in the way inflammation affects muscle and fat tissue in the body and how this contributes to poor outcomes. In addition, we are starting clinical trials of new treatments that may be more effective than current therapies.

What do you most enjoy about your work?

It's rewarding to be able to say to someone starting treatment, "How you feel right now is not how you are going to feel in the future." Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term disease that requires ongoing care, giving rheumatologists time to build strong relationships with their patients. I was fortunate to have many of those in my 13 years at Columbia University and now I'm doing the same at Cedars-Sinai.
A landmark study published by scientists at the University of California San Diego is redefining science's understanding of the way learning takes place. The findings, published in the journal Nature and supported by the National Institutes of Health and U.S. National Science Foundation, provide novel insights on how brain wiring changes during learning periods, offering a path to new therapies and technologies that aid neurological disorders.

For many years, neuroscientists have isolated the brain's primary motor cortex (M1), an area in the frontal lobe region, as a hub for sending out signals related to complex movements during episodes of learning. More recently, the motor thalamus, located in the center of the brain, has been implicated as an area that influences M1 during motor learning functions.

But even with such advancements, evidence was lacking on how this learning process unfolds, mainly due to the complex nature of monitoring the interactions of cells across brain areas.

A research team led by Professor Takaki Komiyama's laboratory used powerful neurobiological research techniques to describe these mechanisms in mice for the first time. Using high-tech imaging and a novel data analysis method, the researchers identified the thalamocortical pathway, a communication bridge between the thalamus and the cortex, as the key area that is modified during learning.

Beyond identifying the main pathway, the researchers found that links between regions physically change during learning. Motor learning does much more than adjust activity levels, it sculpts the circuit's wiring, refining the conversation between the thalamus and cortex at a cellular level.

Our findings show that learning goes beyond local changes - it reshapes the communication between brain regions, making it faster, stronger and more precise. Learning doesn't just change what the brain does - it changes how the brain is wired to do it." Assaf Ramot, study's lead author and postdoctoral scholar in the Komiyama Lab

The study, during which mice learned specific movements, revealed that learning causes a focused reorganization of the thalamus and cortex interaction. During times of learning, the thalamus was found to activate M1 neurons to encode the learned movement and to halt the activation of neurons not involved with the movement being learned.

"During learning, these parallel and precise changes are generated by the thalamus activating a specific subset of M1 neurons, which then activate other M1 neurons to generate a learned activity pattern," said Komiyama, a professor in the Departments of Neurobiology (School of Biological Sciences) and Neurosciences (School of Medicine), with appointments in the Halcoglu Data Science Institute (School of Computing, Information and Data Sciences) and Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind.

To bring the activity of specific neurons into focus - a key insight of the study - the researchers developed a novel analytical method called ShaReD (Shared Representation Discovery) with Neurobiology Assistant Professor Marcus Benna and graduate student Felix Taschbach, study coauthors.

According to Taschbach, who spearheaded development of the data analysis procedure, identifying behaviors that are commonly encoded across different subjects presents a significant challenge because behaviors and their neural representations can vary substantially between animals. To address this issue, the researchers developed ShaReD, which identifies a single shared behavioral representation that correlates with neural activity across different subjects, allowing them to map subtle behavioral features to the activity of different neurons in each animal.

Existing methods typically enforce artificial alignment to reduce individual variability - similar to requiring everyone to follow exactly the same route to a destination. In contrast, ShaReD functions more like identifying which landmarks consistently help travelers navigate, regardless of their specific route choices. The ShaReD method was critical to the study's findings.

"This new method allows us to combine data from multiple experiments to make detailed discoveries that would not have been possible using only the limited number of relevant neurons recorded in an individual brain," said Benna, a computational neuroscientist and co-corresponding author of this study.

The new study is the second recently led by the Komiyama lab that illuminates how our brains learn. In April, William Wright, Nathan Hedrick and Komiyama published a study in Science that describes the multiple rules that neurons follow during episodes of learning, with synapses in different regions following different rules.

With the Nature study's findings, the researchers further science's understanding of the learning process with a new comprehensive model of how the neural circuits underlying learned movements emerge during learning. The new information also offers hope for those who suffer from neurological disorders.

"The study shows that learning isn't just repetition," said Ramot. "It's about your brain literally rewiring itself in a targeted way. Whether you're learning a new skill, recovering from a stroke or using a neuroprosthetic, understanding how brain regions reorganize their communication helps us design better therapies and technologies that work with the brain's natural learning mechanisms."

The paper is dedicated to the memory of An Wu, an assistant project scientist in Komiyama's lab who tragically died in a 2023 Montreal building fire. She is remembered as a brilliant neuroscientist who elevated the many lives she touched.
How Risky Chemicals Get Into Americas Food Supply Play

Lining the shelves of American supermarkets are food products with chemicals linked to health concerns. To a great extent, the FDA allows food companies to determine for themselves whether their ingredients and additives are safe.

Companies don't have to tell the FDA about those decisions, and they don't have to list all ingredients on their product labels. Instead, companies can use broad terms such as artificial flavors.

In 1958, Congress mandated that before additives could be used in foods manufacturers had to prove they were safe and get FDA approval. However, Congress carved out an exception for substances "generally recognized as safe," which came to be known simply as GRAS.

As conceived, GRAS promised regulatory relief for standard ingredients like salt, sugar, vinegar, and baking powder. Over time, "the loophole swallowed the law," said a 2014 Natural Resources Defense Council report.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. wants to close or tighten the GRAS loophole. He has railed about the risks of food additives for years and has said he wants to end "the mass poisoning of American children."

Whether changes come from the FDA or the food companies, it's clear Americans are becoming more concerned about what they're buying.

Credits

David Hilzenrath Reporter

Hannah Norman Video producer & animator

Oona Zenda Art director & illustrator
Waters Corporation today announced that its Empower Software now supports biologics data acquisition and quality control (QC) analysis from Multi-Angle Light Scattering (MALS) and differential Refractive Index (RI) instruments in its Wyatt Technology Portfolio. This integration expands the scope of critical quality attributes that a biopharmaceutical laboratory can manage using Empower Software. Additionally, this advancement will simplify the process and digital footprint of acquiring and submitting compliant data to regulatory authorities  from biologics development through QC  saving customers up to six months of software validation time.

Integration supports high-volume quality control testing to ensure the safety of life-saving biologic therapies. Image Credit: Waters Corporation

Empower Software is the industrys most established and compliant-ready chromatography data system (CDS), widely adopted globally and used to submit data for more than 80% of novel drugs to regulatory authorities. The new integration unlocks the ability to use MALS techniques in quality control for biotherapeutics, improving efficiency and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) readiness, while reducing end-user training in compliant settings.

Todays launch of Empower for Multi-Angle Light Scattering Detectors underscores our commitment from the Wyatt acquisition to integrate advanced analytical technologies into our Empower CDS ecosystem. Dr. Udit Batra, President & CEO, Waters Corporation

Specifically, MALS supported on Empower Software reveals high molecular weight species that are not visible to other detectors  reducing the risk of erroneous results in biotherapeutic quality control. By combining the strengths of compliant software with deep analytical light scattering instrumentation, we are providing customers with a unified solution that enhances productivity and data accuracy  ultimately supporting high-volume QC testing to ensure the safety of life-saving biologic therapies for patients.

The integration of the DAWN, miniDAWN, and OptiLab Detectors will enable the measurement of more critical quality attributes of peptides and proteins in a single run, reducing analysis time by 20% and providing earlier insights into the stability, safety, and efficacy of biologics.

"As a Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), we anticipate that MALS on Empower Software will enhance our service offerings, said William Wittbold, Senior Director of Operations, at Pace Analytical. The detailed MALS data is essential for understanding complex biotherapeutics. Combined with the reliability of Empower Software, we believe this integration will deliver exceptional value to our customers, ensuring our drug development partners receive the highest quality results."

The capability to integrate the DAWN, miniDAWN, and OptiLab Detectors with Empower Software will be available for peptide and protein workflows in July 2025.
Chief Executive John Lee will lead a business delegation to visit Qatar and Kuwait on May 10.

In addition to further strengthening exchanges and connections with the Middle East region in areas such as finance, trade, investment, and innovation and technology (I&T), the purpose of the visit is to promote the latest advantages and opportunities in Hong Kong to local political and business communities.

Noting that the Middle East region is experiencing rapid development with abundant capital, Mr Lee explained that the region is actively seeking to diversify risks, particularly by channelling investments into China and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, aligning with the global economic shift towards the East. Qatar and Kuwait are both economically vibrant and fast-growing countries in the Middle East region, he pointed out.

Furthermore, Mr Lee highlighted that this marks his first time leading Mainland enterprises in addition to leaders from industry and commerce and professional sectors of Hong Kong in an outbound mission, aiming to leverage Hong Kong's strengths under the one country, two systems principle in connecting the Mainland and the world.

He stated that the visit also aims to give full play to Hong Kong's role as a super connector and a super value-adder by deepening international exchanges and co-operation, acting as a bridge to serve enterprises in going global and attracting external investment.

At the same time, it also demonstrates the complementary advantages of co-operation between Mainland and Hong Kong enterprises, creating synergies and providing comprehensive supply chain services.

Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong, Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui, Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau, Director of the Chief Executive's Office Carol Yip, Commissioner for Belt & Road Nicholas Ho and Director of Information Services Apollonia Liu will join the delegation.

Members of the delegation include more than 50 representatives from Hong Kongs business community and Mainland enterprises.

This includes over 30 leaders from industry and commerce and professional sectors of Hong Kong and over 20 entrepreneurs from Mainland provinces such as Zhejiang, Fujian, and Guangdong. The delegation spans fields including finance, industry and commerce, trade, infrastructure, I&T, energy, and transport and logistics.

Mr Lee will visit Qatar on May 11 and 12 and depart for Kuwait on the evening of May 12.

During the visit, he will meet with local government leaders to enhance communication and establish collaborative consensus, enabling businesses to clearly understand the policy directions of co-operation between the Hong Kong SAR Government and the governments of both countries, and leading the promotion of cultural exchanges.

Apart from leading the delegation to visit facilities and enterprises to gain insights into the latest developments in areas such as finance, trade, and I&T, exploring new opportunities, the Chief Executive plans to attend exchange events to introduce Hong Kong's advantages and investment opportunities to the local business community.

Mr Lee will return to Hong Kong on May 15. During his absence, Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki will be Acting Chief Executive.
Ethiopia-Seoul Plane Seen Over Pakistan Amid Indias Operation Sindoor Airstrikes

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 16:17 IST

The only plane flying through Pakistan during the tension was Flight ETH672, travelling from Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) to Seoul (South Korea).

After the precision strikes, Pakistan temporarily shut down its airspace. (Representational Image)

While Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, just one aircraft was seen flying through Pakistani skies.

According to real-time flight tracking platform Flightradar24, Ethiopian Airlines flight ETH672, travelling from Addis Ababa to Seoul, was the only one spotted over Pakistan during the strikes.

Recommended Stories

Flight tracking data showed that most commercial aircraft rerouted to avoid Pakistans airspace. Instead, they flew around the country using longer paths via Iran, the Arabian Sea, and the UAE, as per Money Control.

The sudden change in flight patterns came shortly after Indias precision airstrikes were launched under Operation Sindoor.

Flight Cancellations and Diversions Across India

Indias largest airline, IndiGo, issued a travel advisory warning of flight disruptions to and from several northern cities. These include:

Srinagar

Jammu

Amritsar

Leh

Chandigarh

Dharamshala

Bikaner

IndiGo urged passengers to check flight status before heading to the airport.

Air India went a step further, cancelling all flights to and from:

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Jammu

Srinagar

Leh

Jodhpur

Amritsar

Bhuj

Jamnagar

Chandigarh

Rajkot

These cancellations are in place until 12 noon on 7 May, with further updates pending. Additionally, two international flights to Amritsar were diverted to Delhi.

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

Get the latest updates on car and bike launches in India  including reviews, prices, specs, and performance. Stay informed with breaking auto industry news , EV policies, and more, Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!

First Published: May 07, 2025, 16:17 IST
Mumbai: First Underground Rail Line In The Works, 7.4 km Tunnel May Link Parel To CSMT

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 06, 2025, 16:18 IST

The underground rail line is part of Phase 2 of the project to extend the railway network with a fifth and sixth corridor along the Kurla-Parel-CSMT stretch.

This will connect Parel/Currey Road to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in South Mumbai. (Representative Image) (Photo: Swarajya)

Mumbai could soon get its first underground suburban railway line, as the Central Railway (CR) considers tunnelling beneath the city to build its fifth and sixth rail corridors between Parel/Currey Road and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT).

The underground stretch is part of Phase 2 of a larger expansion project along the Kurla-Parel-CSMT route.

Recommended Stories

Phase 1, from Kurla to Parel (10.1 km), is already under construction.

Phase 2, now being planned, will cover 7.4 km between Parel and CSMT.

Why Underground?

One of the major hurdles for mega infrastructure projects like this is acquiring land and rehabilitating affected people. To avoid these complications, the railway authorities believe tunnelling underground will provide a more efficient solution. This approach is being modelled after the success of the Mumbai Metros underground lines, which have managed to navigate similar challenges.

Furthermore, this underground stretch would be built at a depth of 20-25 metres, running just below the existing railway tracks. The alignment is being designed to avoid buildings, roads, and existing underground utilities, making the plan more feasible.

The plan is still in its infancy. Central Railway and the Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation (MRVC) have held a few meetings, but no firm blueprint has been finalised. The next steps involve detailed technical feasibility studies.

We are currently preparing the terms of reference and will appoint a consultant soon," said a senior railway official as per Hindustan Times.

Whats Next for the Underground Rail Line?

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

As the feasibility studies progress, railway officials will assess the best locations for tunnel boring machines to enter and exit at CSMT and Parel.

Once these locations are identified, alternative alignments will be explored to ensure the smooth completion of the tunnel. A consultant will be appointed to finalise the details of this exciting project.

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

Get the latest updates on car and bike launches in India  including reviews, prices, specs, and performance. Stay informed with breaking auto industry news , EV policies, and more, Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!

First Published: May 06, 2025, 16:18 IST
Operation Sindoor Impact On Markets: How Equities Reacted To Uri Strike, Balakot Strike, Kargil War?

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 12:03 IST

The market is unlikely to be impacted by the retaliatory strike by India since that was known and discounted by the market, says an expert.

The Indian stock market on Wednesday remained volatile assessing the impact on the 'Operation Sindoor'.

The Indian stock market on Wednesday remained volatile, assessing the overall impact on the Operation Sindoor, in which Indian missiles struck terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to retaliate last months Pahalgam attack.

The BSE Sensex was trading lower by 163 points at 80,448.39 in the morning trade as of 10:08 am, while the NSE Nifty declined 73 points to trade at 24,305.

Recommended Stories

Among the 30 Sensex companies, 22 stocks were trading in red. The top losers were Asian Paints, Larsen & Toubro, HCL Tech, Sun Pharma, and UltraTech Cement decling by up to 1.61 per cent.

Heres how markets reacted to Uri strike, Balakot strike, and Kargil war:

As geopolitical tensions flared again between India and Pakistan, investors are turning to history for clues on how Indian stock markets typically respond to military and terror-related events. From the 1999 Kargil War to the Balakot airstrikes and the Uri surgical strike, Indian equities have consistently demonstrated a striking pattern: Initial jitters followed by resilience and recovery.

Nifty 50 Performance (%) Around Key Events

Event Date 1M Before 1M After 3M After 6M After 12M After Kargil War 1999 May 3, 1999 -8.3% 16.5% 34.5% 31.6% 29.4% Parliament Attack 2001 Dec 13, 2001 10.1% -0.8% 5.3% -0.8% -1.3% Mumbai 26/11 Attacks 2008 Nov 26, 2008 9.0% 8.3% 0.7% 54.0% 81.9% Uri Attack & Surgical Strikes 2016 Sep 18, 2016 -1.3% -1.2% -7.3% 4.3% 15.6% Pulwama Attack & Balakot 2019 Feb 14, 2019 -1.1% -6.3% 3.8% 1.7% 12.7%

Abhishek Jaiswal, fund manager at Finavenue, said, Historical data suggests that the Indian stock market has generally responded with resilience to serious geopolitical events. Except for the Parliament attack in 2001, all other incidents studied have led to positive market returns over the medium to long term."

He added that it is important to recognise that the likelihood of a full-scale war remains low. As long as such escalation is avoided, Indias economic growth trajectory is unlikely to face any major setbacks. In essence, while the initial reaction to cross-border strikes may be cautious, markets tend to recover and even thrive thereafter  reinforcing the idea that political stability, strategic decisiveness, and national security assurance are valued by investors.

Balakot Airstrikes: Markets Absorbed the Shock Swiftly

On February 26, 2019, when the Indian Air Force conducted precision air strikes in Balakot in retaliation for the Pulwama terror attack, the Sensex fell by 239 points and the Nifty lost 44 points. However, markets rebounded quickly. By the next trading session, indices had stabilized  a sign that investors viewed the operation as a measured, strategic action with limited long-term risk to economic fundamentals.

Pulwama Attack: Muted Market Reaction

Just days earlier, on February 14, 2019, the Pulwama terror attack had shaken the nation, but its market impact was surprisingly mild. The Sensex dipped a mere 0.2% the following day. Analysts attributed this to the lack of immediate retaliation and the anticipation that the government would respond in a calculated, rather than escalatory, manner.

Uri Surgical Strikes: Initial Panic, Then Rebound

The markets response to the 2016 surgical strikes across the Line of Control, following the deadly Uri terror attack, was more pronounced. On the day of the announcement, the Sensex dropped over 400 points, while the Nifty tumbled 156 points, reflecting sudden investor panic over the possibility of war escalation. But just days later, markets recovered, reinforcing the narrative that short-term fear often gives way to medium-term fundamentals.

Kargil Conflict: A Surprising Rally Amid War

The 1999 Kargil War offers the most counterintuitive data point. Despite being a full-scale military conflict that lasted over two months, the markets surged. Between May and July 1999, the Sensex soared by 1,115 points  a rise of over 33%  while the Nifty gained 319 points. The rally was driven by multiple factors, including domestic economic reforms, favourable monsoons, and political stability emerging after the conflict.

Operation Sindoor: What Factors May Drive Markets?

V K Vijayakumar, chief investment strategist of Geojit Investments Limited, said, What stands out in Operation Sindoor from the market perspective is its focused and non-escalatory nature. We have to wait and watch how the enemy reacts to this precision strikes by India. The market is unlikely to be impacted by the retaliatory strike by India since that was known and discounted by the market."

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

The main catalyst of the market resilience in India is the sustained FII buying of the last 14 trading days which has touched a cumulative figure of Rs 43940 crores in the cash market. FIIs are focused on the global macros like weak dollar, slower growth in US and China in 2025 and Indias potential outperformance in growth. This can keep the market resilient. However, investors have to watch the developments in the border, he added.

The big shift in market preference in favour of largecaps away from overvalued segments of mid and smallcaps is significant. FIIs, as always, are mainly buying largecaps. This trend can continue," Vijayakumar said.

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: May 07, 2025, 10:36 IST
Operation Sindoor: Airline Services Impacted; Over 200 Flights Cancelled, 18 Airports Temporarily Shut

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 15:05 IST

Flights are affected in Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Dharamshala, Chandigarh and Rajkot; passengers need to check flight status before reaching airport.

Departures, arrivals, and consequential flights have been impacted due to the ongoing India-Pakistan situation. (Representative image / PTI)

Flights Affected After Operation Sindoor: Airlines, including Air India, Indigo, SpiceJet and Akasa Air, on Wednesday cancelled flights to and from a number of north Indian cities, including Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Amritsar, and Jodhpur, after Indias retaliatory strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK) to avenge the Pahalgam attack.

Airlines have asked the passengers to check flight status before reaching the airport.

Recommended Stories

They have also announced that passengers can opt for a full refund or an alternate flight, as per availability.

Flights have been affected in Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Dharamshala, Kishangarh, Bikaner, Gwalior, Chandigarh and Rajkot. Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India Express, Akasa Air, and a few foreign airlines cancelled their services to and from various airports.

More than 200 flights have been cancelled and at least 18 airports, including Srinagar, have been temporarily shut for operations amid restrictions in the wake of the armed forces launching missile attacks against Pakistan on Wednesday morning, according to a PTI report citing sources.

It said at least 18 airports in the northern and western parts of the country have been temporarily shut. These airports include Srinagar, Leh, Jammu, Amritsar, Pathankot, Chandigarh, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Shimla, Dharamshala and Jamnagar.

Apart from this, at least 35 flights to and from the Delhi airport, the countrys largest and busiest airport, have been cancelled since 12 am, PTI has reported

Kindly note, due to changing airspace conditions some flights have been impacted at Delhi Airport," DIAL said in a post on X. Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) operates the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA).

At least 35 flights to and from the Delhi airport have been cancelled by various airlines, including foreign carriers. A total of 23 domestic departures and eight arrivals were cancelled. Besides, four international departures have been cancelled since 12 am, according to PTI.

Meanwhile, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has taken control of Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport in Chandigarh and Sri Guru Ram Das Jee International Airport in Amritsar.

Air India has cancelled flights to and from nine airports, including Srinagar and Amritsar, till early morning of May 10.

Air India flights to and from the following stations, Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot, are being cancelled till 0529 hrs IST on 10 May following a notification from aviation authorities on the closure of these airports," the airline said.

Air India Express in its post on X also said multiple flights on its network are impacted due to prevailing restrictions.

Indigo has also cancelled flights to and from 11 airports, including Srinagar and Amritsar, till evening of May 10. It said over 165 IndiGo flights from multiple airports are cancelled until 0529 hrs. IST of 10 May, 2025, due to government notification on airspace restrictions.

In line with directives from aviation authorities regarding airport closures, we are in the process of concelling all flights to and from Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Gwalior, Kishangarh, and Rajkot until 0529 hours on May 10," Indigo said in a statement.

#6ETravelAdvisory: Due to changing airspace conditions in the region, our flights to and from #Srinagar, #Jammu, #Amritsar, #Leh, #Chandigarh and #Dharamshala are impacted. We request you to check your flight status at https://t.co/CjwsVzFov0 before reaching the airport. IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) May 6, 2025

SpiceJet has also announced to close its few flights on Wednesday amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.

Due to ongoing situation, airports in parts of northern India, including Dharamshala (DHM), Leh (IXL), Jammu (IXJ), Srinagar (SXR), and Amritsar (ATQ), are closed until further notice. Departures, arrivals, and consequential flights may be impacted. Passengers are advised to plan their journey accordingly and check flight status at https://spicejet.com/#status," SpiceJet said.

#TravelUpdate: Due to ongoing situation, airports in parts of northern India, including Dharamshala (DHM), Leh (IXL), Jammu (IXJ), Srinagar (SXR), and Amritsar (ATQ), are closed until further notice. Departures, arrivals, and consequential flights may be impacted. Passengers are SpiceJet (@flyspicejet) May 6, 2025

Spicejet added that the affected passengers can opt for a full refund or an alternate flight (as per availability) through changes.spicejet.com or via our 24/7 customer care helpline +91 (0)124 4983410/+91 (0)124 7101600.

Akasa Air, in a post on X, said that due to the prevailing situation in the region, all its flights to and from Srinagar have been cancelled.

Regional carrier Star Air said its flights to/from Nanded, Hindon, Adampur, Kishangarh and Bhuj stand cancelled for the day.

Meanwhile, Qatar Airways, in a post on X, said it has temporarily suspended flights to Pakistan due to Pakistani airspace closure.

The Srinagar Airport has also issued a statement saying that civil flights at Srinagar Airport suspended till further notice.

Civil flights at Srinagar Airport suspended till further notice. Passengers advised to contact airlines for cancellations or rescheduling," Srinagar Airport said in a post on X.

Asian Airlines Re-Route, Cancel Flights

Several Asian airlines on Wednesday said they were re-routing or cancelling flights to and from Europe because of tensions between India and Pakistan.

More than two dozen international flights were diverted to avoid Pakistan airspace. By Wednesday morning local time, airlines had cancelled 52 flights to or from Pakistan, according to FlightRadar24.

Taiwans EVA Air said that it will adjust its flights to and from Europe to avoid affected airspace.

Korean Air said it had begun rerouting its Seoul Incheon-Dubai flights on Wednesday, opting for a southern route that passes over Myanmar, Bangladesh, and India, instead of the previous path through Pakistani airspace.

Thai Airways said that flights to destinations in Europe and South Asia would be rerouted starting early on Wednesday morning, while Vietnam Airlines said tensions between India and Pakistan had affected its flight plans.

Taiwans China Airlines said that flights to and from destinations including London, Frankfurt and Rome had been disrupted, with some cancelled and others having to make technical stops in Bangkok and Prague to refuel and change crews, before taking longer flight paths.

Indian missiles struck terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) late on Tuesday night, two weeks after cross-border terrorists killed 26 people in Pahalgam.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

New Delhi described the strikescalled Operation Sindooras measured and non-escalatory," stressing that no Pakistani military facilities were targeted. Sources said the strikes were carefully calibrated, with precision targeting. Prime Minister Narendra Modi monitored the entire operation, sources said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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

First Published: May 07, 2025, 06:40 IST
Gold Prices Fall On MCX Today; Check Bullion Rates In Your City On May 7 Amid India-Pakistan Tensions

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 10:37 IST

Gold and Silver Prices In India Today, May 7: Latest prices of yellow metal in Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai.

In Mumbai, the price of gold stood at Rs 90,750 per 10 gram for 22-carat and Rs 99,000 per 10 gram for 24-carat.

Gold Price Today In India, May 7: Gold prices remained flat on Wednesday despite an escalation in India-Pakistan tensions after Indian missiles struck terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on late Tuesday night. In Mumbai, the price of gold stood at Rs 90,750 per 10 gram for 22-carat and Rs 99,000 per 10 gram for 24-carat.

Silver prices also declined by 100 to Rs 96,800 per kg.

Recommended Stories

On the MCX, gold was trading lower by 0.84 per cent to trade Rs 96,669 per 10 gram in the morning, followed by Silver with a loss of 0.24 per cent or Rs 96,467 per kg.

Gold and silver posted a sharp recovery for the second straight session, where both precious metals surging more than 2.5 per cent on Tuesday. But, today morning (Wednesday), international gold prices dipped below $3,380/oz following reports of upcoming US-China trade talks, which eased safe-haven demand," said Rahul Kalantri, vice-president (commodities) of Mehta Equities.

Recently, gold prices hit the Rs 1 lakh mark after increasing for the past few weeks amid global economic uncertainties and US recession fears.

Known for its unmatched purity, 24-carat gold continues to attract buyers seeking premium quality. Meanwhile, 22-carat gold, prized for its durability and timeless charm, remains a favourite among jewellery enthusiasts and investors alike, striking a balance between elegance and practicality.

Heres a detailed breakdown of gold prices across key cities (May 07, 2025): City 22K Gold (per 10gm) 24K Gold (per 10gm) Delhi Rs 90,410 Rs 98,620 Jaipur Rs 90,410 Rs 98,620 Ahmedabad Rs 90,310 Rs 98,520 Patna Rs 90,310 Rs 98,520 Mumbai Rs 90,750 Rs 99,000 Hyderabad Rs 90,750 Rs 99,000 Chennai Rs 90,750 Rs 99,000 Bengaluru Rs 90,750 Rs 99,000 Kolkata Rs 90,750 Rs 99,000 Silver Price In India Today (May 07, 2025) The price of silver experienced a fall of Rs 100 to trade at Rs 96,800 per kg in Mumbai, according to goodreturns.in. What Factors Affect Gold Prices In India? International market rates, import duties, taxes, and fluctuations in exchange rates primarily influence gold prices in India. Together, these factors determine the daily gold rates across the country. In India, gold is deeply cultural and financial. It is a preferred investment option and is key to celebrations, particularly weddings and festivals. With constantly changing market conditions, investors and traders monitor fluctuations closely. Staying updated is crucial for effectively navigating dynamic trends. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

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

First Published: May 07, 2025, 09:42 IST
Kerala SSLC Result 2025 On May 9: Official Websites, Apps To Download Scorecards

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 11:00 IST

Kerala SSLC Result 2025: Kerala Board will declare the class 10th exam result on May 9, 2025. Students can check their results on keralaresults.nic.in and other official websites.

Kerala SSLC Result 2025: Class 10th scorecards will be released on official websites - keralaresults.nic.in (Representative image/File)

Kerala SSLC Result Date 2025: The Kerala Board of Public Examination (KBPE) has announced the date to declare the Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) or class 10th exam results. The Kerala SSLC Result 2025 will be released on Friday, May 9, 2025. Once released, students who appeared for the Kerala Class 10th Board Exam 2025 will be able to check their results on the official website  keralaresults.nic.in.

Where To Check Kerala SSLC Result 2025?

Recommended Stories

Students can check their Kerala SSLC Results 2025 through the official websites given below

keralaresults.nic.in

result.kite.kerala.gov.in

prd.kerala.gov.in

result.kerala.gov.in

How To Check Kerala SSLC Results 2025?

Step 1: Visit the official website  keralaresults.nic.in

Step 2: Click on the link for Kerala SSLC Result 2025, on the homepage,

Step 3: Now enter your roll number, date of birth and other required credentials

Step 4: Now click on submit and your Kerala Class 10th Result 2025 will appear on the screen

Step 5: Download the result and take a printout for future reference

Alternative Ways To Check Kerala10th Result 2025

Saphalam App:

Download the Saphalam 2025 app from the Google Play Store.

Enter your roll number and date of birth to check your result instantly.

SMS Service:

Type: KERALA10 |space| Roll Number

Send it to the number announced by the Kerala Board.

Your result will be sent to you via SMS.

PRD Live App:

Developed by the Public Relations Department of Kerala.

Download the app to access real-time result updates.

DigiLocker:

Login to digilocker.gov.in or use the DigiLocker app.

Go to the Education" section and select Kerala Board to access your digital marksheet.

Use your Aadhaar or mobile-linked account to sign in.

UMANG App:

Download the UMANG app and select the Kerala Board under the education category.

Enter your roll number to view your marksheet and result.

For the 2025 session, 4,27,021 students took the SSLC exams, which were conducted from March 3 to 26. The examinations were held at 2,964 centres across Kerala, in addition to nine centres in Lakshadweep and seven in Gulf countries.

Of the total candidates, 1,42,298 were from government schools, 2,55,092 from government-aided schools, and 29,631 from unaided institutions. Moreover, 447 students appeared from Lakshadweep centres, while 682 took the exams at centres in the Gulf region.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Kerala SSLC Result 2025: Previous Year Performance

In 2024, the Kerala Board of Public Examinations (KBPE) declared the SSLC results on May 8, achieving an impressive overall pass percentage of 99.69%. That year, a total of 4,27,153 students had appeared for the Class 10 examinations.

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: May 07, 2025, 11:00 IST
Meet Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, IAF Helicopter Pilot Who Led Operation Sindoor Briefing

Curated By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 16:43 IST

Wing Commander Vyomika Singh is a distinguished helicopter pilot in the Indian Air Force (IAF)and a trailblazer for women in the Indian armed forces.

Wing Commander Vyomika Singh is a highly skilled helicopter pilot of the Indian Air Force. (Photo Credits: X)

Wing Commander Vyomika Singh played a major role in Operation Sindoor following the Pahalgam Terror attack. She, along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Mishri and Colonel Sophia Qureshi, jointly led the media briefing for Operation Sindoor, a precisely planned and targeted strike on Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This operation was conducted in the early hours of May 7, in response to the killing of 26 indians in Pahalagam.

Early Life and Inspiration

Recommended Stories

Vyomikas journey into the skies began with a childhood dream. Her name, which means one who lives in the sky," perfectly captures her ambition. Becoming a pilot was her dream since the sixth grade. Inspired by her passion for aviation, she joined the National Cadet Corps (NCC) during her school years and later pursued an engineering degree, becoming the first in her family to join the armed forces.

Career and achievements

Vyomika Singh was commissioned as a helicopter pilot in the Indian Air Force and received a permanent commission in the flying branch on December 18, 2019.

Over the years, she has accumulated more than 2,500 hours of flying time, piloting Chetak and Cheetah helicopters across some of Indias most challenging terrains, including high-altitude missions in Jammu & Kashmir and the Northeast.

She has led numerous critical rescue operations, including one in Arunachal Pradesh in November 2020, where she showcased exceptional leadership in challenging high-altitude and adverse weather conditions. Additionally, she participated in the 2021 tri-services all-women mountaineering expedition to Mt. Manirang (21,650 feet). Her achievement was acknowledged by the Chief of Air Staff.

Her ambitious career trajectory highlights the growing role of women in leadership positions within Indias defence forces.

Awards and honours

For her bravery and professionalism, Wing Commander Singh has received commendations from the Chief of Air Staff and the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of an operational command, solidifying her status as a role model for aspiring women in the defence forces.

Role in Operation Sindoor

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

On May 7, 2025, Wing Commander Singh co-anchored the media briefing for Operation Sindoor, a targeted strike against nine terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This operation, conducted in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, highlighted her role not just as a pilot but as a frontline spokesperson for the IAF.

Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the Pahalgam attack, saw India execute precision strikes on terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Precision-guided munitions, air-to-ground missiles, and drones were used to target key strongholds of Jaish-e-Mohammed (Jem) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). While Pakistan acknowledged explosions, it denied the existence of terror camps, condemning the operation. Indian officials maintained the action was in self-defence, with estimates suggesting 80 to 90 terrorists neutralised.

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

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: May 07, 2025, 16:43 IST
Operation Sindoor: Schools, Colleges To Remain Closed In Jammu, Poonch And Other Districts Of J&K

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 07:00 IST

Schools and colleges in Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri, and Poonch will be closed on May 7 following India's strikes on terror hubs in Pakistan.

All government and private schools in Poonch will remain closed on May 7. (Representative Image/ Getty)

All educational institutions including schools and colleges will remain closed on Wednesday, May 7, in the districts of Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri and Poonch following Indias strikes on terror hubs in Bahawalpur, Muridke, Sialkot, and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

In view of the prevailing situation all School, Colleges & educational institutions in Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri and Poonch will remain closed today," wrote the Divisional Commissioner of Jammu on X (formerly Twitter).

Recommended Stories

In response to the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian armed forces launched missile strikes early Wednesday targeting nine terrorist locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. Among the key targets were the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold in Bahawalpur and the Lashkar-e-Taiba base in Muridke.

In view of the prevailing situation all School, Colleges & educational institutions in Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri and Poonch will remain closed today. Divisional Commissioner Jammu (@Divcomjammu) May 7, 2025

The strikes, conducted under Operation Sindoor, come two weeks after the massacre of 26 civilians in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

A little while ago, the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," the defence ministry said in a statement at 1.44 am.

The ministry said that the actions by the Indian armed forces have been focused, measured and non-escalatory" in nature and that no Pakistani military facilities have been targeted.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution," it said.

The operation was named Operation Sindoor, a symbolic reference to the red vermillion worn by Hindu women to signify marriage. In the Pahalgam terror attack, several women witnessed their husbands being killed before their eyes, including the wife of an Indian Navy officer.

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: May 07, 2025, 07:00 IST
Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 14:18 IST

WBCHSE West Bengal Board Class 12th Results 2025 LIVE Updates: The West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education (WBCHSE) has declared the Class 12 board results 2025 today, May 7. A total of 90.79% of the students who took the exam cleared it successfully. Like last year, male students outperformed female students. East Midnapore has once emerged as the top-performing district. Check toppers list and other details below.

The direct link to access the results has been activated at 2 pm on the official result portal  result.wb.gov.in. Students can also check their results via the official WBCHSE mobile app, which can be downloaded from the Google Play Store. To view their results, students must enter their roll number and registration number in the login window.

This year, the West Bengal Class 12 board exams were held from March 3 to March 18, 2025.
Amidst Operation Sindoor, Let Us Look At The Wars That India And Pakistan Have Fought Since 1947

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Shilpy Bisht



Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 09:35 IST

As India carries out Operation Sindoor, the major conflicts fought between India and Pakistan were in 1947, 1965, 1971, and the Kargil war in 1999

India retaliated the 2019 Pulwama attack by conducting an air strike that targeted terrorist training camps within Pakistani territory. (File Photo)

Operation Sindoor, which began at midnight, struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan, targeting terrorist infrastructure there. The strikes came after the Pahalgam attack on April 22 in which 26 tourists were killed.

As per the defence ministry statement on Wednesday, A little while ago, the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed."

Recommended Stories

Let us look at the major conflicts and wars and diplomatic tussles between India and Pakistan since 1947.

The 1947 War: The first Kashmir War began in October 1947 and the consequence was the accession of Jammu and Kashmir by India. Pakistan was under the fear that Maharaja Hari Singh would accede to India. It was after the Partition that the princely states were given three options: Accede to India, accede to Pakistan or remain independent. Jammu and Kashmir had a significant number of Muslims and Hindus. The tribal Islamic forces met and joined the Pakistan army and occupied some parts of the princely state. Thus, Maharaja Hari Singh acceded to India and received military aid. The issue was taken to the UN Security Council and Resolution 47 was passed on April 22, 1948, and the Line of Control was created. On January 1, 1949, a ceasefire was declared. India had control of two-thirds of Jammu and Kashmir, whereas Pakistan gained Gilgit Balistan and Azad Kashmir. India calls it Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.

The 1965 War: It started with Pakistans Operation Gibraltar where the forces tried to enter the India-administered areas and start the insurgency. The Indian government launched a full-scale military response against West Pakistan. The war was fought for 17 days and thousands of people died on both sides. The Soviet Union and USA had to intervene and a ceasefire was declared. India had an upper hand in the war as Pakistan caused insurgency.

The 1971 Liberation War: Tensions rose in December 1970 when the Awami League party, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and based in East Pakistan, won the national elections but West Pakistan parties, namely the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), refused to hand over power. Tensions between Bengalis and Biharis  the Urdu-speaking communities that had moved to East Pakistan from different parts of India after Partition  rose, which led to attacks on some Bihari communities. In March 1971, the Pakistan Army intervened to stem the growth of nationalist sentiments in the east and recruited local pro-Pakistan Bengalis and non-Bengalis, including members of the Islamic organisation Jamaat-e-Islami. An estimated toll of both civilian and military deaths range from 500,000 to over 3 million. Millions of refugees fled to neighbouring India. On December 16, 1971 Bangladesh was created.

The 1999 Kargil War: The Pakistani troops infiltrated the Line of Control and occupied Indian territory at Kargil in Kashmir. There was fear of large-scale military escalation which then forced the US to pressurize Pakistan to withdraw. Pakistan had to face the pressure of international isolation, which could be detrimental to its economy. Many units of the Northern Light Infantry of Pakistan had suffered heavy casualties. Nawaz Sharif later told international media that more than 4,000 Pakistani troops were killed in the operation and that Pakistan had lost the war.

Diplomatic Tensions Between India And Pakistan

Mumbai 26/11 Attacks: On November 26, 2008, fears of direct military confrontation between India and Pakistan abounded after militants laid siege to Mumbai, killing 166 people, including six Americans. Both India and the US blamed Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), a militant group with alleged ties to the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) for perpetrating the attack. Instead of escalating tensions, the India took the diplomatic route by seeking cooperation with the Pakistani government to bring the perpetrators of the attack to justice, paving the way for improved relations.

When Modi Became PM In 2014: Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited then Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to attend his inauguration. After a brief period of optimism, relations turned sour once more in August 2014 when India cancelled talks with Pakistans foreign minister after the Pakistani high commissioner in India met with Kashmiri separatist leaders.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

The 2016 Uri Attack: Momentum towards meaningful talks came to an end in September 2016, when armed militants attacked a remote Indian Army base in Uri, near the LOC, killing 18 Indian soldiers in the deadliest attack on the Indian armed forces in decades. Indian officials accused Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), another group with alleged ties to ISI, of being behind the attack. In response, the Indian military announced it had carried out surgical strikes" on terrorist camps inside PoK while the Pakistani military denied any such operation.

The 2019 Pulwama Attack: In February 2019, a convoy of Indian paramilitary forces in Pulwama were targeted, in which at least 40 soldiers died. The attack, claimed by Pakistan-backed JeM, was the deadliest in Kashmir in three decades. India retaliated by conducting an air strike that targeted terrorist training camps within Pakistani territory; these were answered by Pakistani air strikes on Kashmir. The exchange escalated into an aerial fight, and Pakistan captured an Indian pilot, who was released days later.

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: May 07, 2025, 09:35 IST
Do IMF Bailouts Provide Pakistan Cover To Plan Terror Attacks Like Pahalgam?

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Karishma Jain



Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 12:03 IST

As Pakistan seeks another $1.3 billion from the IMF, India warns the funds may be propping up terror, not just the economy

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif meets with managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Kristalina Georgieva, in Paris, France, June 22, 2023. (Prime Minister Office via AP)

As the International Monetary Fund (IMF) prepares to review a $1.3 billion disbursement to Pakistan on May 9, a critical question is taking centre stage: Are international bailouts, meant to stabilise fragile economies, indirectly enabling Pakistans terror infrastructure  including attacks like the one in Pahalgam?

For India, the answer is increasingly clear: yes, not by direct funding, but by propping up a system that frees resources, shields proxy networks, and insulates military intelligence operations long linked to cross-border terrorism.

Recommended Stories

This isnt just rhetoric. On May 7, India backed its concerns with action, launching Operation Sindoor  a precision military strike targeting nine terror launchpads across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The diplomatic message was unmistakable: terror cannot be subsidised  not by aid, and certainly not by the IMF.

The Link India Is Making: Bailouts, Budgets & Bloodshed

Indias contention is not that IMF funds are wired directly to terror cells  but that these bailouts liberate Pakistans internal finances, allowing the state to redirect domestic resources to its military-intelligence ecosystem, including the ISI, and terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).

While the IMFs disbursements are earmarked for balance-of-payments or climate resilience, they relieve fiscal pressure on Islamabad, letting its own funds flow unchecked to strategic priorities, including those India alleges are deeply enmeshed with proxy warfare.

In New Delhis view, this is not a bug in the global system  its the entire problem.

Pahalgam: Where The Debate Turned Deadly

The tipping point came on April 22, when gunmen disguised in army fatigues ambushed a tourist group in Baisaran Valley, Pahalgam, killing 26 civilians. The Resistance Front (TRF), widely seen as a LeT front, initially claimed responsibility. Though it later withdrew the claim, Indian intelligence maintains that cross-border handlers, encrypted communications, and digital forensics tied the attack to Pakistan-based infrastructure.

Recovered devices reportedly bore signatures linked to earlier LeT-led assaults, reinforcing Indias belief that Pahalgam was not an isolated terror strike, but the output of a funded, protected, and cross-border network.

Operation Sindoor: From Evidence To Action

Indias military response  Operation Sindoor  struck nine locations across PoK and Pakistan, including Muzaffarabad, Bahawalpur, Sialkot, and Kotli  areas known to house LeT, JeM, and Hizbul Mujahideen assets. Satellite imagery later confirmed structural damage.

Crucially, no Pakistan Army bases were targeted. The operation was framed as counterterrorism, not retaliation, but the real audience wasnt just Islamabad. It was the international community, especially financial institutions, that, in Indias view, continue to fund a state that exports terror while playing victim.

Pakistans IMF Dependency: A Pattern With No Reform

Since its first IMF agreement in 1958, Pakistan has entered 23 programmes, averaging one every three years. Structural adjustment packages in 1988, 1994, 2001, and 2008, and more recently:

2013: $6.6 billion

2019: $6 billion

2024: $7 billion bailout

2025 (pending): $1.3 billion under climate-linked support

While these funds are framed as lifelines, critics  including former IMF insiders  say Pakistan has repeatedly failed to implement structural reforms. The 2024 review praised short-term stability but flagged a familiar problem: reform backslides once disbursements begin.

Indias Core Charge: IMF Bailouts, Terror Budgets

New Delhi argues that every IMF bailout stabilises Pakistans balance sheet  and frees up space for opaque spending elsewhere. This includes:

Military R&D

Cross-border surveillance infrastructure

ISI-linked recruitment networks

Religious front organisations used to mask radicalisation and logistics

Groups like Jamaat-ud-Dawa continue to operate freely in Pakistan, despite being sanctioned internationally  a fact India says proves how state complicity masks itself behind economic crisis narratives.

What Global Think Tanks Say

India isnt alone in this critique. Research bodies like the Hudson Institute and Foundation for Defense of Democracies have highlighted Pakistans pattern of:

Diverting resources to non-transparent defence priorities

Operating terror training camps with state protection

Maintaining selective compliance during FATF grey-listing

Even FATFs grey-listing (20082015, 20182022) failed to dismantle these terror ecosystems  largely because financial pressure was always offset by global bailouts.

IMFs Bind: Economic Stability Vs Security Risk

For the IMF and Western backers, the dilemma is real. Cutting Pakistan off could accelerate:

Economic collapse

Mass migration

Chinese strategic penetration

But turning a blind eye to Indias charge  that IMF funding is enabling a bloodstained status quo  carries its own consequences.

India has formally urged the IMF, World Bank, and Asian Development Bank to reassess financial assistance to Pakistan in light of the Pahalgam massacre. New Delhi has raised concerns that such aid may inadvertently support terror infrastructure.

Previously, India had chosen to abstain from voting on IMF assistance to Pakistan, preferring not to obstruct multilateral economic relief despite deep bilateral tensions. However, the Pahalgam massacre and mounting evidence of cross-border complicity have prompted a serious policy rethink.

According to a report in the Economic Times, a government source confirmed that India is now considering opposing the $1.3 billion loan, citing concerns that such support could indirectly end up funding terror operations."

In an assertive diplomatic signal, India also appointed Parameswaran Iyer, Executive Director at the World Bank, to temporarily represent it on the IMF board  a move seen as reinforcing Indias intent to raise objections at the highest level of global financial governance.

Defence First, Development Later: Pakistans Fiscal Priorities

Indias alarm over how IMF bailouts may free funds for terror is tied to a broader fiscal reality: Pakistan has historically prioritised military spending over economic reform. Despite persistent financial crises and international scrutiny, Pakistans defence allocation remains among the highest as a share of GDP in the region, and continues to rise even during periods of economic contraction.

In FY202425, Islamabad allocated over Rs 2.1 trillion for defence, a figure that excludes military pensions and strategic projects often classified as contingency" or security" spending. By contrast, development expenditure, particularly in health, education, and job creation, has been slashed repeatedly to meet deficit targets.

This imbalance, critics argue, reflects not just poor economic management but deliberate statecraft, where national security is equated with military might, and where the militarys strategic dominance skews budget priorities in its favour.

Such budgeting patterns  shielded from parliamentary scrutiny and often financed by international lenders  are what India fears may continue if IMF funds are disbursed without accountability mechanisms.

The Bottom Line: Is The IMF Enabling Terror?

So, is the IMF knowingly helping Pakistan fund attacks like Pahalgam?

No. But is it enabling a system where economic bailouts prop up a state that funds, protects, and deploys proxy terror networks?

India says yes  and its done waiting for the world to catch up.

The debate isnt just about fiscal discipline anymore. If the money stabilises a regime that uses its freedom to fund bloodshed, then the global financial system, knowingly or not, becomes a stakeholder in terror.

As The May 9 Vote Looms

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

The IMF must now choose between economic rescue and strategic responsibility. For India, the message is non-negotiable: Terror cannot be financed  not through state budgets, not through proxy fronts, and certainly not through IMF packages.

As the IMF board prepares for its vote, one question towers above the rest: Can the world afford to keep financing Pakistan, without knowing what else it might be financing along the way?

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: May 07, 2025, 12:02 IST
Don't Panic: Delete Those WhatsApp Forwards Asking You To Stock Up Amid India-Pak Tensions

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 14:37 IST

Indians on social media have urged their countrymen and women to stock up on medicines, cash, and fuel as they ready themselves for a 'war' between India and Pakistan.

Operation Sindoor carried out by India in Pakistan has created war hysteria on social media. (Kindly note that the image is for representative purpose only)

When war starts, youll realise how important it is to have cash, medicines, fuel, and necessary items," a post on X read. A few social media users have already prepared for India-Pakistan war. These well-meaning folks want you to stock up medicines, tank up your vehicles, and keep a sum of at least Rs 50K in your pocket. This Covid-19 era like hysteria has spread online and created unnecessary panic among netizens and it is refusing to die down despite PIBs intervention.

So, what exactly led to this?

Recommended Stories

Operation Sindoor

India carried out missile attacks on the terror camps in Pakistan and PoK early Wednesday in retaliation to Pahalgam massacre that killed 26 civilians. It has been reported that the terror headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammad in Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Muridke were destroyed successfully, making this operation a highly successful one.

This strike shows Indias intent to finish Pakistan-sponsored terror for good. Pakistan never acted against these terror factories of globally proscribed organisations like JeM and LeT," top sources said.

Sindoor or vermillion signifies the marital status of Hindu women and is symbolic of warriors wearing it on their forehead before heading out to battle. That the terrorists had wiped off the sindoor of multiple Hindu women in Pahalgam by killing their husbands mercilessly and by targeting them for being Hindu and India has taken revenge for them and obtained justice for the Pahalgam victims  women and children. An image was posted by the Indian Army depicting Operation Sindoor.

Social Media Panic

Indias successful execution of the Sindoor op in Pakistan was celebrated with zeal by social media users and members of the opposition but soon the worries of impending war between the two nations embroiled in decades of hostility and tensions among them also became a hot topic of conversation and debate online.

Also Read: Happy Sindoor Day: How Social Media Reacted To Indias Strike On Terror In Pakistan

The commentators took to social media platform X where they issued out PSA to their fellow Indians to kindly be prepared for an impending bar between the nations.

They further listed out essentials that one must be stocked with to avoid Covid-19 like situation where people scrambled for groceries and daily items as the country was confined to their homes in the wake of deadly pandemic.

PIB Intervenes

If the online panic wasnt enough, a circular attributed to the government of India spread like wildfire over WhatsApp and other social media platforms.

Also Read: What Pakistanis Are Searching For On Google After India Executes Operation Sindoor

The fake advisory claimed that due to the tense situation in the border areas in the country, the government had instructed people to store at least Rs 50,000 in cash. It also mentioned the need to stock up on medicines for two months, food, water, torch lights, and power banks among other items at home.

An image of an advisory is being shared online, claiming that the Government has urged individuals to take precautionary measures and keep essential items ready at home.#PIBFactCheck This claim is #FAKE. The government has not issued any such advisory  Beware! Trust pic.twitter.com/JtEcr8iRge  PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 6, 2025

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Fortunately, this claim was swiftly debunked by the fact-check unit of the Press Information Bureau (PIB) that called the circular fake and clarified that the government had not issued any such advisory for its citizens.

An image of an advisory is being shared online, claiming that the Government has urged individuals to take precautionary measures and keep essential items ready at home. This claim is FAKE. The government has not issued any such advisory. Beware! Trust only official government sources for credible information. Stay cautious and avoid sharing unverified claims," PIB Fact Check said in a social media post.

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: May 07, 2025, 14:33 IST
On This Day: Why Germany Surrendered Unconditionally To Allies, Marking The End Of World War 2

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Shilpy Bisht



Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 11:45 IST

Several factors such as the collapse of Eastern Front, pressure from West, Hitlers health, depletion of resources, and the Berlin fall led to Germany's surrender in World War 2

German High Command General Alfred Jodl wanted to limit the surrender to the forces still fighting the Western Allies. But General Dwight Eisenhower demanded complete surrender of all German forces. (Photo: CNBCTV18)

While the world reels under wars from the Ukraine-Russia conflict to Gaza, and now Indias Operation Sindoor against Pakistans terror hubs, some 80 years ago on May 7, Germany surrendered to the Allies, comprising the United States of America, the United Kingdom, the Soviet Union, China and France, marking the end of World War 2 in Europe.

The surrender, however, did not end World War 2 because the war against Japan continued in the Far East.

Recommended Stories

What Happened On This Day In 1945?

The German High Command, General Alfred Jodl, signed the unconditional surrender of all German forces, East and West, at Reims, in northeastern France, on May 7, 1945.

General Jodl wanted to limit the surrender to only those forces still fighting the Western Allies. But General Dwight Eisenhower demanded complete surrender of all German forces, those fighting in the East and the West as well.

The US, Britain and France were trying to work out differences with the Soviet Union, which felt the surrender didnt recognise the sacrifices its troops had made in securing victory.

A second surrender document was signed around midnight on May 8 in Berlin, satisfying Soviet concerns. Russia celebrates what it calls Victory Day on May 9.

Why Did Germany Surrender In World War 2?

There were several factors that led to the surrender of Germany to the Allied Powers.

Eastern Front Collapse: The Soviet Unions Red Army launched massive offensives, such as Operation Bagration (1944), which destroyed Germanys Army Group Centre and reclaimed vast territories. By early 1945, Soviet forces were advancing rapidly towards Berlin, capturing key cities like Warsaw and Budapest.

Western Front Pressure: The Western Allies successfully invaded Normandy in June 1944 and liberated France. By 1945, they crossed the Rhine River into Germany, capturing industrial heartlands like the Ruhr Valley. By April 1945, Allied forces from the east and west were converging on Berlin, encircling German troops and cutting off supply lines.

Loss of Resources: Air raids by the US and Britain devastated German cities, industries and infrastructure. The bombing of Dresden (February 1945) and other cities crippled peoples hopes and production. There was a shortage of oil, steel, and manpower due to prolonged war.

Hitlers Health: Adolf Hitlers suicide in his Berlin bunker on April 30, 1945, did not immediately end World War II in Europe. Though the German capital had fallen to the Soviets, some Nazi troops would continue fighting for more than a week in France, Germany, the Mediterranean and elsewhere. And when the Nazis finally did accede to the Allies demand for unconditional surrender, German generals had to sign for the surrender. Hitlers successor, Grand Admiral Karl Donitz, recognized the futility of further resistance and sought to negotiate surrender, primarily to the Western Allies, to avoid Soviet retribution.

Moral Collapse: The German Wehrmacht was depleted, with millions of people dead, wounded, or captured. Conscripted teenagers and elderly men were no match for battle-hardened Allied forces. Constant bombing, food shortages, and the advancing Red Armys reputation for reprisals killed civilian morale. Many Germans saw surrender as the only way to end the suffering. Internal resistance, like the July 1944 plot to assassinate Hitler, weakened the Nazi regime, while some military units began surrendering independently. At the 1943 Casablanca Conference, the Allies demanded unconditional surrender to prevent Germany from regrouping as it did after World War I. With no hope of negotiated peace and facing total defeat, Germany had no choice.

Fall Of Berlin: Soviet forces began their assault on Berlin on April 16, 1945, while the Allies were still fighting their way across western Germany. With the city in ruins and the Red Army advancing street by street, Hitler retreated to his bunker under the Reich Chancellery, where he committed suicide on April 30. The last defenders finally surrendered on May 2.

What Was The Immediate Aftermath Of The War?

Allied Occupation: Germany was divided into four occupation zones controlled by the US, Soviet Union, UK, and France, as agreed at the Yalta and Potsdam Conferences (1945). Berlin was similarly split into four sectors. The Allied Control Council was set up to govern jointly, but tensions between the Soviets and Western Allies emerged, leading to the Cold War.

Denazification: The Allied Powers tried to remove the Nazi ideology from the society, for which former Nazi officials were removed from public office. The Nuremberg Trials (19451946) prosecuted key Nazi leaders for war crimes, with 12 sentenced to death, others imprisoned.

Economic Collapse: The German economy collapse with the bombing of cities like Dresden, Cologne, and infrastructure was disrupted, with food shortages widespread. The winter of 1946-1947 was particularly hard, leading to excessive famine and suffering.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Political Dismantling: The Nazi regime was abolished, and Germanys pre-1933 borders were restored. Territories in the east side of the Oder-Neisse Line (e.g., East Prussia, Silesia) were ceded to Poland and the Soviet Union, and ethnic Germans were expelled. The Allies initially planned to deindustrialize Germany but shifted to reconstruction to counter Soviet influence and stabilize Europe.

Berlin Wall Created: To prevent the East Germans fleeing to the West, the German Democratic Republic (GDR) erected the Berlin Wall in August 1961, becoming a symbol of Iron Curtain. Germany became a Cold War flashpoint, with NATO-aligned West Germany and Warsaw Pact-aligned East Germany hosting foreign troops.

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: May 07, 2025, 11:39 IST
What Happened To 'Hawk Tuah' Girl? The Viral Meme That Disappeared

Curated By :

Trending Desk Edited By: Anurag Verma



Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 12:33 IST

Hailey Welch shot to fame in June last year when she appeared in on-the-street interview with creators Tim & Dee TV in Nashville, Tennessee.

Hawk Tuah Girl Hailey Welch rose to fame after a short street interview went viral. (YouTube screengrab)

Spit on that thang!

Hailey Welch became one of the most recognisable internet names in 2024. Known widely as the Hawk Tuah Girl," the 22-year-old rose to fame after a short street interview went viral. But what followed was a series of ups and downs like her sudden internet popularity, a failed launch of her cryptocurrency and her disappearance from public life.

Recommended Stories

Lets take a look at how Welch became the viral Hawk Tuah Girl" and what went wrong with her crypto project. In a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Welch also spoke about the regrets she has and what lies ahead as she plans to rebuild her public image and explore new opportunities.

How Hailey Welch Became The Hawk Tuah Girl"?

Hailey Welch shot to fame in June 2024 when she appeared in on-the-street interview with creators Tim & Dee TV in Nashville, Tennessee. When asked whats a move that drives a man crazy, she jokingly replied with her now-famous hawk-tuah" sound. The clip gained attention across social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. Her phrase became a popular meme and many began calling her the Hawk Tuah Girl."

Following her internet success, Welch launched merchandise, appeared in Halloween costume collaborations and even started her own podcast called Talk Tuah in September 2024. She became a regular face across social media in the second half of the year.

The Crypto Launch And Sudden Crash

With her growing popularity, Welch entered the world of cryptocurrency. On December 4, she launched her own meme coin called $HAWK. After the launch, the token quickly reached a market cap of around $490 million within hours. But the price dropped by more than 90 percent shortly after launch. It went below $30 million.

According to CoinMarketCap, $HAWK may have been affected by a rug pull," a situation where snipers buy the asset where it is cheaper and instantly sell it where its more expensive.

Following the sudden fall, a lawsuit was filed in New York against the creators of the token, including its platform overHere, founder Clinton So, influencer Alex Larson Schultz and the Tuah The Moon Foundation which reportedly managed the coins finances. The lawsuit claimed that the creators of unlawfully promoting and selling cryptocurrency that was allegedly never properly registered.

Also Read: What Pakistanis Are Searching For On Google After India Executes Operation Sindoor

Speaking to Vanity Fair, Welch shared how the situation affected her, saying, I hate that thats even a thing. Half of those people that done it were, like, my fans. They trusted me It really hurt my feelings when it turned out the way it did. I wish it hadnt have happened."

After the events in December, Welch took a break from public life. She stopped releasing episodes of her podcast Talk Tuah and stayed off social media until late March. Back in December, she had posted a message saying she was committed to assisting the legal team representing the individuals impacted, as well as to help uncover the truth, hold the responsible parties accountable, and resolve this matter."

In the new interview, Welch said, I see things a lot differently than I used to. My eyes are open a lot wider." She also had a message for other viral stars: Definitely be careful what you tie your name into and who you trust."

New Acting Projects And Future Plans

Welch has now returned to social media and wants to move forward with new projects. She shared that she is planning to rework her podcast Talk Tuah.

Im hoping my podcast gets rebranded in the way Im seeing it in my head  the vision Ive got. Just making it more girlier and more authentic to me," SHE SAID.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

She is also stepping into acting. Welch will reportedly appear in the upcoming Hulu comedy series Chad Powers, which stars Glen Powell. It was definitely something I would do again. I dont know if I could do a whole movie by myself But bits and pieces, just popping in here and there  I think that would be so much fun," Welch said about her acting experience.

The Hollywood Reporter mentioned that she had earlier turned down a few roles in horror films.

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: May 07, 2025, 12:30 IST
What Pakistanis Are Searching For On Google After India Executes 'Operation Sindoor'

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 10:34 IST

'White Flag' to 'Operation Sindoor', Google in Pakistan was flooded with queries as India launched missile attack in the neighbouring country in response to Pahalgam massacre.

"White Flag", "What is Sindoor" were among the top searches made by people in Pakistan after India launched missile attacks under "Operation Sindoor" to avenge Pahalgam massacre. (Image: Sourced)

A string of searches were made by citizens of Pakistan after India carried out Operation Sindoor in the early hours of Wednesday. For the unaware, India launched a series of strategic and targeted attacks against terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) a fortnight after the Pahalgam terror attack that ended the lives of 26 civilians. The objective was to dismantle launchpads and camps used by terror groups operating from across the Line of Control (LoC), Indian Army sources confirmed.

As social media platforms flooded with visuals of Operation Sindoor carried by India, people of Pakistan scrambled to Google with a series of questions and queries they wanted answers for.

Recommended Stories

What Is Sindoor?

One of the top-most searched questions in Pakistan simply was: What is Sindoor?"

Sindoor or vermillion was used as a powerful reminder to the Pahalgam massacre. On April 22, terrorists targeted and killed men, some newly married, based on their religion. Sindoor is also worn as a symbolic pride by warriors headed to a battle.

Also Read: Happy Sindoor Day: How Social Media Reacted To Indias Strike On Terror In Pakistan

Some other queries related to Sindoor included What is operation sindoor", What is sindoor in English", Operation Sindoor wiki".

(Google Trends)

India Missile Attack

Queries from Islamabad, Punjab, and Sindh included search terms as follows: India launches missile", India missile attack", India fired missile Pakistan" among many others.

(Google Trends)

White Flag

White flag topped the search in several regions in Pakistan. White flag signifies a state of surrender used by soldiers in warfare by tying a white cloth or a handkerchief on their gun and showing it to their enemy or other army as a request for ceasefire. The firing or attack stops once the message of surrender is acknowledged. Peace and negotiations can be attempted or achieved with the symbolic white flag.

(Google Trends)

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

India Declares War

India declares war" was amongst the top keywords on Google in Pakistan. Related queries such as India Pakistan war today", war update" also showed up on Google Trends as the locals wondered if the tensions between the two nations could potentially escalate to a full fledged war.

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: May 07, 2025, 10:25 IST
Was 1971 The Last Big Strike India Conducted Against Pakistan? What Was The Result? Explained

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Shilpy Bisht



Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 09:26 IST

Operation Sindoor is being considered Indias deepest strikes inside Pakistans territory since the 1971 war, which led to the creation of Bangladesh

Security personnel keep vigil amid high alert after India struck nine terror targets in Pakistan & PoK, at Pampore in Pulwama district, J&K, on May 7, 2025. (PTI Photo)

India launched Operation Sindoor on terror camps in Pakistan around midnight in one of the expansive retaliatory strikes in recent times after the Pahalgam massacre on April 22 in which 26 tourists were killed.

The government said the strikes hit infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed.

Recommended Stories

Reports say Operation Sindoor is Indias deepest strikes inside Pakistans territory since 1971. More details about Indias strikes will be shared by Defence Ministry in the briefing scheduled at 10 am on May 7.

What Happened In The 1971 War?

The 1971 Indo-Pak War was fought from December 3 to December 16, 1971, which led to the creation of Bangladesh.

Background: The war took place due to simmering political and ethnic tensions in Pakistan. East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), predominantly Bengali, faced discrimination from the Pakistani government. After the 1970 elections, where the Bengali-led Awami League won a majority but was denied power, widespread unrest erupted.

In March 1971, Pakistan launched a brutal military crackdown in East Pakistan to suppress Bengali demands for autonomy, resulting in mass killings, rapes, and a refugee crisis. Around 10 million Bengalis fled to India.

Under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Indias strategy focused on liberating East Pakistan. The Indian Army supported the Bengali resistance (Mukti Bahini) with training, arms, and sanctuary, as the refugee influx and Pakistans actions posed a humanitarian and security crisis.

Fighting also took place along the India-West Pakistan border, with battles in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan. The Indian Navys attack on Karachi harbour was a significant blow to Pakistan.

Result: On December 16, 1971, Lt. Gen. A.A.K. Niazi, Pakistans commander in East Pakistan, surrendered to the Indian Armys Lt. Gen. Jagjit Singh Aurora in Dhaka. Over 93,000 Pakistani troops became prisoners of war, the largest surrender since World War II.

East Pakistan was liberated and named Bangladesh, with Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as its leader.

Casualties: Reports say 3,900 Indian soldiers were killed and 9,850 wounded. On the Pakistan side, 8,000 soldiers were killed and 25,000 wounded. Estimates of Bengali civilian deaths range from 300,000 to 3 million, with millions displaced.

Aftermath: India emerged as a regional power, with its military and diplomatic strategy praised. Pakistan, on the other hand, faced a humiliating defeat, losing half its population and significant territory. The war reshaped South Asian geopolitics, with Bangladeshs creation altering the regions balance of power.

India and Pakistan signed the Shimla Agreement in 1972 to foster peace, with both sides agreeing to resolve disputes bilaterally and respect the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir.

India managed the return of refugees and POWs, with most Pakistani prisoners repatriated by 1974.

What Is Happening In Operation Sindoor?

News agency PTI shared a list of nine terror facility locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir that have been successfully neutralised. Of the nine locations, four were located within Pakistan and five in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Markaz Subhan Allah, Bahawalpur  JeM

Markaz Taiba, Muridke  LeT

Sarjal, Tehra Kalan  JeM

Mehmoona Joya, Sialkot  HM

Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala  LeT

Markaz Abbas, Kotli  JeM

Maskar Raheel Shahid, Kotli  HM

Shawai Nalla Camp, Muzaffarabad  LeT

Syedna Bilal Camp, Muzaffarabad  JeM.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

As per the Pakistan militarys media arm, Inter-Services Public Relations, India has struck three places from the air"  Bhawalpur in Pakistans Punjab Province as well as Kotli and Muzaffarabad in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. Muridke is the headquarters of the Lashkar-e-Taiba, which is believed to be behind the Pahalgam attack, and Bahawalpur is the base of the Masood Azhar-led Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Indian forces have selected the targets to go after senior terrorist leadership, according to sources cited by news agency ANI. Indian officials stressed the mission was focused, measured, and non-escalatory, and specifically avoided Pakistani military installations.

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: May 07, 2025, 08:47 IST
'Back From The Dead': Who Is 26/11 Handler Sajid Mir Mentioned In Operation Sindoor Briefing?

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 12:37 IST

One of Indias most wanted terrorists and the main handler of the deadly Mumbai attacks, Mir was once the foreign recruiter for LeT

Mir (in photo) and his associates, Abu Qahafa and Mazhar Iqbal, were coordinating real-time with the 26/11 attackers.

A terrorist declared dead, brought back to life due to international pressure, found" alive and then arrestedAs Indias Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri trained guns on Pakistan during the official briefing on Operation Sindoor, he cited the example of 26/11 Mumbai attack handler Sajid Mir to drive home the point that the neighbour has historically been a safe haven for those plotting against India.

The features of Pahalgam attack tie in with Pakistans long track record of perpetrating cross-border terrorism in India, which is well-documented and beyond question. Pakistan also has a well-deserved reputation as a haven for terrorists from around the world, with international proscribed terrorists enjoying impunity there. In addition, Pakistan has been known to willfully mislead the world and international forums such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). In the Sajid Mir case, this terrorist was declared dead, and then, in response to international pressure, brought back to life, found alive and then arrested," Misri said.

Recommended Stories

The foreign secretarys comments came as India avenged the killings of 26 civilians in the Pahalgam terror attack with precision strikes deep inside Pakistans Punjab and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including headquarters of terror outfits JeM and LeT.

But who is Sajid Mir and how did his case expose Pakistans duplicity in the fight against terror?

One of Indias most wanted terrorists and the main handler of the deadly Mumbai attacks, Mir, according to FBI, underwent plastic surgery after the 2008 attack. He was once the foreign recruiter for LeT and served David Coleman Headley, the principal handler for the American terrorist.

A US Justice Department document describes how Mir and his associates, Abu Qahafa and Mazhar Iqbal, were in real-time telephonic contact with the 26/11 attackers. In fact, it was Mir who had suggested that Headley change his name from Dawood Gilani to David Coleman Headley so that he could pass off as an American, giving him a smokescreen to work on behalf of Lashkar. Mir also suggested that Headley open an immigration office in Mumbai.

As the hunt began for the perpetrators of the Mumbai attack and India pointed fingers at Pakistan, the neighbour denied Mirs existence, even declaring him dead in 2021, though Western countries demanded proof of his death.

As the issue became a major sticking point in the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)s assessment of Pakistans progress on eliminating terrorand bailing out the bankrupt countryIslamabad was forced to relent and in April 2022, Mir was arrested in Lahore on charges related to terror financing. A Pakistani anti-terrorism court convicted him in May 2022, sentencing him to 15.5 years in prison and imposing a fine of PKR 420,000.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Pakistan tom-tommed its achievement" before the FATF, telling the agency that it had arrested and prosecuted Mir in order to seek its removal from the global anti-laundering bodys Grey List.

The Mir saga, however, did not end here. In a sudden development in 2023, the terrorist was rushed to hospital and placed on a ventilator after he was reportedly poisoned" while lodged inside a Pakistan jail. Though there were reports of threat to Mirs life, there were reports that Pakistan could be using his hospitalisation as a ruse" to soften the blow against him.

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: May 07, 2025, 12:37 IST
Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 23:17 IST

From 26/11 Mumbai attacks to the 2024 Gulmarg attack and the Pahalgam terror attack, India on Tuesday targeted terror sites in Pakistan from where multiple such attacks were planned and executed. As part of operation Sindoor, India targeted 21 terror camps across nine locations, four in Pakistan and five in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). The targets were not just aimed at avenging the Pahalgam attack, but also targeting terror sites where other such attacks were planned.

At a press briefing on Operation Sindoor, Indian Army officer Lt Colonel Sophia Qureshi and Indian Air Force Wing Commander Vyomika Singh told the media how terror locations, where terrorists were trained for the 2019 Pulwama attack, the 2016 Pathankot attack and more such terror attacks, were targeted successfully by the Indian forces on the intervening night of May 6 and 7.

Also Read | Operation Sindoor LIVE Updates

Lt Colonel Qureshi and Wing Commander Singh explained the strategic selection of targets by India to avenge previous attacks. They said that no military or civilian establishment was targeted and that the operation was non-escalatory". They said the motive of the operation was degrading terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK.

Why Markaz Subhan Allah, Bahawalpur was attacked

Markaz Subhan Allah, Bahawalpur, is the operational headquarter of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), responsible for attacks like the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. It houses JeMs top leadership, including Maulana Masood Azhar and Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar. Funded by Pakistans ISI and gulf donors, it has facilities for arms training and terrorist recruitment. This strike aimed to disrupt JeMs core leadership and training.

Why Markaz Taiba, Muridke, Was Attacked

Markaz Taiba, Muridke is the headquarter of Lashkar-e-Taiba, which executed the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks in 2008. The Mumbai attackers like Ajmal Kasab were trained at this facility. Financed by Osama bin Laden, it hosts LeT leaders like Hafiz Saeed and Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi. It radicalises and trains over 1,000 youths annually in guerrilla warfare, intelligence, and explosives. The objective was to dismantle LeTs terror operations and prevent future attacks.

Why Sarjal/Tehra Kalan Facility Was Targeted

This JeM launchpad facilitates infiltrations into Jammu via tunnels and drones. Lt Col Qureshi said this site was targeted as it was linked to the 2016 Pathankot attack.

The facility, approximately 20 km from the Line Of Control (LoC), is used to dig cross-border tunnels, drops weapons via drones, and houses JeMs Afghan operations. The strike aimed to destroy infiltration networks and drone-smuggling hubs.

Why Mehmoona Joya Facility, Sialkot, Was Targeted

This facility is a base for planning Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) attacks in Jammu, run by ISI-backed commander Irfan Tanda. It trains terrorists for border raids and weapons smuggling. The operation aimed at degrading HMs operational capacity in Jammu.

Why Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala (PoK) Was Targeted

This facility is known to have trained terrorists and planned the Dhangri (2023) and Reasi (2024) attacks, resulting in 16 civilian deaths. It serves as a staging ground for LeT infiltrations into Poonch-Rajouri and houses over 100 militants. The objective of Operation Sindoor was to disrupt LeTs transit routes and punish attacks on civilians.

Why Markaz Abbas, Kotli (PoK) Was Targeted

This facility has been JeMs arms depot and planning hub for attacks like Nagrota (2016), led by Qari Zarrar. It stores weapons smuggled from Afghanistan and trains snipers. The goal was to eliminate JeMs logistics supply chain.

Why Maskar Raheel Shahid, Kotli (PoK) Was Targeted

Maskar Raheel Shahid is Hizbul Mujahideens elite training camp for Border Action Team (BAT) raids, overseen by Syed Salahuddin. It trains militants in sniper tactics and survival skills. India targeted this location to neutralise HMs cross-border raid capabilities.

Why Shawai Nallah Camp, Muzaffarabad (PoK) Was Targeted

LeTs premier training facility, this facility was also instrumental in training the 26/11 attackers. Supported by Pakistans ISI and Army trainers, it indoctrinates recruits and provides advanced weapons training. The strike aimed to cripple LeTs recruitment pipeline.

Why Syedna Bilal Markaz, Muzaffarabad (PoK) Was Targeted

A transit camp for JeM terrorists infiltrating into Kashmir, this facility is linked to the Nagrota 2016 and Pulwama 2019 attacks. It hosts 50100 terrorists and provides SSG (Pak Army) training. Tuesdays strike by India aimed to disrupt JeMs infiltration routes and avenge not just Pahalgam, but also Pulwama and several other terror attacks.
Can The Tourists Killed In Pahalgam Attack Be Given 'Martyr' Status? What Rules Say

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 16:36 IST

An RTI query by activist Gopal Prasad in 2013 revealed that neither the Ministry of Defence nor the Ministry of Home Affairs has any formal definition of martyr

The Pahalgam attack left 26 dead, including naval office Vinay Narwal, and dozens injured when terrorists opened fire on tourists. (AP Photo)

Days after the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had called upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi to formally recognise the victims as martyrs. The demand sparked a renewed debate on who qualifies for martyr status in India.

Taking to social media platform X earlier this month, Gandhi expressed solidarity with the bereaved families, posting in Hindi, I stand with the families mourning the loss of their loved ones in the Pahalgam attack, and support their demand to confer martyr status on the victims." He further appealed directly to the Prime Minister, urging him to respect the sentiments of the families and bestow this honour on the deceased."

Recommended Stories

The April 22 attack in Baisaran valley of Pahalgam, in J&Ks Anantnag district, left 26 dead and dozens injured when terrorists opened fire on a group of tourists.

Amid public outcry over the attack, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was also filed in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, seeking official recognition of the slain tourists as martyrs. Rahul Gandhi, who represents Rae Bareli in the Lok Sabha, met with the family of Shubham Dwivedi, one of the victims, in Kanpur and reiterated his call for official recognition and compensation.

Who Qualifies As A Martyr?

While the term martyr is often used in public discourse to honour those who die in service of the nation, the government does not formally confer this title outside of the armed forces. According to a 2017 clarification from the Ministry of Defence, there is no official notification or policy that grants the title of martyr even to fallen soldiers. Instead, the designation is colloquially used and carries no legal or bureaucratic weight.

Moreover, the distinction is sharp between personnel in the armed forces and other uniformed services. Policemen, even when killed in anti-terror operations, are not entitled to the status or benefits that come with being recognised a martyr. The same applies to Agniveer recruits, who serve short-term stints in the military under a new recruitment scheme. Even if they die in active operations or attacks, they are not recognised as martyrs on paper.

An RTI query by activist Gopal Prasad in 2013 revealed that neither the Ministry of Defence nor the Ministry of Home Affairs has any formal definition of martyr. A similar response was given in the Rajya Sabha to then-MP Kiranmay Nanda, who had sought clarification on the same issue.

Why Martyr Status Matters

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Granting martyr status is not merely symbolic. Families of recognised martyrs in the armed forces are entitled to a slew of benefits  from monetary compensation and pension to employment for next of kin, housing, and access to subsidised services like air and rail travel. In many cases, the state government also steps in with additional support, including land allotments, petrol pump licenses, or financial grants.

While the etymology of martyr has ancient religious contexts, the word shaheed originates from the Arabic term shahid, which appears in the Quran and is commonly interpreted as witness" or one who sacrifices for faith". In the Indian context, the Sanskrit equivalents hutatma and veergati have historically been used to denote someone who lays down their life for a noble cause.

First Published: May 07, 2025, 16:36 IST
'Comforting, Very Proud': Pahalgam Terror Attack Victim's Daughter Reacts To India's Operation Sindoor

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 06:47 IST

Speaking to CNN-News18, Menon expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over India's action against terrorists

ndian armed forces on early Wednesday carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir

Pahalgam victim N Ramachandrans daughter Aarthi Menon said the news of Indias strike against terrorists is very comforting at this moment of grief".

Speaking to CNN-News18, Menon expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over Indias action against terrorists.

Recommended Stories

Our loss is irreparable. We are very proud and moved by Indias action against Pakistan. We will come out stronger. I fold my both hands and thank you our PM Modi," she said.

Retaliating against the Pahalgam terror attack two weeks ago, Indian armed forces on early Wednesday carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, including in Bahawalpur, a stronghold of the banned Jaish-e-Mohammed.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

The military strikes were carried out under Operation Sindoor, the defence ministry said in a statement at 1.44 am. It said the actions by the Indian armed forces were focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature".

About the Author Saurabh Verma Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19

Location : Kochi [Cochin], India, India

First Published: May 07, 2025, 05:50 IST
'Dogfight' In Space At The Speed Of 29,000 kmph: ISRO Shows How It's Done

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 15:08 IST

India's ISRO achieved a milestone with the SPADEX mission, simulating a space dogfight between satellites at 28,800 km/h, showcasing advanced space defense capabilities

At an orbital velocity of 28,800 km/h, around 28 times faster than a commercial aircraft, the exercise was described by ISRO as technically complex and extraordinarily challenging. (News18)

Just weeks after the United States accused China of simulating a high-stakes dogfight in space, India has quietly pulled off a technological feat of its own, one that not only demonstrates scientific prowess but hints at strategic readiness for the future of orbital defence.

Under the ambitious SPADEX (Space Docking Experiment) mission, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved what few nations dare to attempt: two Indian satellitesSDX 01 and SDX 02were successfully manoeuvred to face one another in orbit, closing in at speeds nearing 29,000 km/h. What followed was nothing short of a simulated space confrontation, conducted with breath-taking precision.

Recommended Stories

Simulated Space Dogfight At 28,800 km/h

Initially launched to test autonomous docking and undocking capabilities, the SPADEX mission had already achieved its primary objectives. However, with nearly half of their onboard fuel reserves still available, ISRO scientists saw an opportunity to push the boundaries further. What they orchestrated next resembled an aerial dogfight, but in the vacuum of space.

In an unprecedented move, both satellites were guided to approach each other head-on, mimicking high-speed combat manoeuvres akin to fighter jets locked in a mid-air drill. At an orbital velocity of 28,800 km/h, around 28 times faster than a commercial aircraft, the exercise was described by ISRO as technically complex and extraordinarily challenging".

This demonstration is more than a marvel of scientific ingenuity; it hints at Indias quiet preparation for the evolving domain of space security, often dubbed the next frontier of warfare.

Earlier this year, the United States had raised alarm bells, accusing China of weaponising space by simulating dogfights with satellites, an act many viewed as a potential military provocation. In contrast, Indias exercise, while echoing the technical nature of such manoeuvres, was conducted in a calm, deliberate, and scientific context.

Yet the implications are clear: India now possesses the technological maturity to engage in high-precision orbital operations, asserting itself as a rising power in space defence capabilities.

A Stark Contrast With Pakistan

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

While India advances in orbital control and autonomous docking technology, Pakistan continues to rely on China and the United States for basic GPS functionality. Bereft of its own satellite docking infrastructure or deep-space R&D, Islamabad is nowhere near fielding a mission like SPADEX.

This successful experiment not only marks a leap forward for India in terms of space exploration and satellite autonomy, it also sends an unmistakable message: India is preparing not just for terrestrial challenges, but for those in orbit as well.

First Published: May 07, 2025, 15:08 IST
Even Before Operation Sindoor, 2 Indian Flights Easily Entered And Crossed Pakistani Airspace

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 13:43 IST

Two Indian aircrafts were reportedly seen travelling through Pakistani airspace on the very day Islamabad announced it was shutting down its skies to Indian planes

The two flights, Air India IX-191 and IndiGo 6E-1481, reportedly entered Pakistani skies on April 24. (Representational Image)

Even before India launched Operation Sindoor to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack, a surprising development had left Pakistan visibly flustered. Despite a formal closure of its skies to Indian airplanes on April 24, two Indian commercial flights were tracked flying over Pakistani territory.

According to flight tracking data from Flightradar24, Air India Express flight IX-191 and IndiGo Airlines flight 6E-1481 were seen traversing Pakistani airspace on the very day Pakistan announced it was shutting down its skies to Indian planes.

Recommended Stories

Flight IX-191 had departed from Amritsar en route to Dubai, while flight 6E-1481 took off from Chandigarh, also bound for the Gulf nation. Both aircraft entered Pakistani skies shortly after take-off, apparently unaware or unaffected by the airspace restriction.

According to a News18 Hindi report, Pakistani Air Traffic Control and associated agencies were caught off-guard, struggling to respond as the two jets moved across their airspace. Despite heightened military alertness following the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, no interception or diplomatic escalation followed and the flights completed their journey into the Gulf region without any incident.

The airspace closure was part of Pakistans reaction to rising hostility with India following the terror attack in Pahalgam. Citing Indias past cross-border operations including the 2016 surgical strikes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, Islamabad had been on edge, fearing potential military retaliation.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Despite the airspace closure by Pakistan, the overflights by the two Indian planes on April 24 triggered a wave of confusion and criticism within Pakistani media and its defence circles.

Additionally, an IndiGo flight 6E-1428 traveling from Sharjah to Amritsar was reported to have approached Pakistani airspace around the same time. Anticipating restricted access, the pilot diverted southward and rerouted via Iranian airspace, eventually landing in Ahmedabad for refuelling before proceeding.

First Published: May 07, 2025, 13:43 IST
Fact-Checked And Exposed: Pakistan's Lies That Followed Indias Operation Sindoor

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 15:14 IST

Operation Sindoor was real. The Pakistani response, not so much

As the Indian Armed Forces neutralised key terror infrastructure, Pakistan-based handles and sympathetic social media ecosystems launched a coordinated disinformation campaign. (News18)

In the wake of Operation Sindoor  Indias precision military strike targeting nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK)  a parallel battle has unfolded in the digital arena. As the Indian Armed Forces neutralised key terror infrastructure, Pakistan-based handles and sympathetic social media ecosystems launched a coordinated disinformation campaign, flooding the internet with fake visuals, misleading narratives, and recycled content.

To combat this surge in propaganda, Indian fact-checkers swiftly moved into action, debunking multiple viral claims aimed at undermining Indias narrative and morale.

Recommended Stories

Pakistani Leadership And Media Jump The Gun

Even before social media propaganda kicked in, official Pakistani voices were already contributing to a swirl of disinformation.

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif claimed during a live address that Pakistan had taken three Indian soldiers prisoner in the night. However, he later retracted the statement, effectively fact-checking himself. He then followed up with a fresh allegation  that Indian soldiers were abandoning their posts  again without offering any proof.

Mainstream Pakistani media outlets also joined the effort to mislead audiences. A striking example was exposed by fact-checker Mohammed Zubair, who flagged ARY News for broadcasting old and unrelated incidents as part of its post-Operation Sindoor coverage.

These visuals  falsely presented as showing downed Indian jets or damaged infrastructure  were unconnected to current events and appeared to be sourced from unrelated past incidents. The intent: to create an illusion of successful Pakistani retaliation.

ARY News from Pakistan is sharing images of old and unrelated incidents as latest. https://t.co/ZS2bJsvO4u pic.twitter.com/xsgOvNKyc4 Mohammed Zubair (@zoo_bear) May 6, 2025

Hamid Mir, one of Pakistans most prominent journalists, made increasingly exaggerated claims on air, asserting that the Pakistan Air Force had downed multiple Indian jets. The number of jets allegedly shot down kept rising with each broadcast  eventually reaching six. No evidence was provided, and no independent or official source confirmed any such engagement or losses.

Score is now six. One Indian Mig29 destroyed few moments ago. https://t.co/otMWfTvVzq Hamid Mir   (@HamidMirPAK) May 7, 2025

Other posts from verified accounts falsely claimed that Pakistan had launched missile strikes on 15 locations inside India. These claims were completely unsubstantiated  with no corroboration from Indian authorities, local media, or on-ground visuals to support them.

Fact Check Verdict: Baseless and contradictory claims from senior Pakistani voices attempted to shape a false narrative of retaliation and Indian military losses  none of which have held up to scrutiny.

Heres a breakdown of the major falsehoods and how they were exposed:

1. Fake Claims About Indian Fighter Jets Being Shot Down

Soon after Operation Sindoor, images began circulating online purporting to show downed Indian aircraft allegedly hit by Pakistani defences. Some posts even carried fabricated IAF pilot IDs. However, PIB Fact Check revealed that the viral images were from an unrelated 2024 MiG-29 crash in Rajasthan. No Indian aircraft was lost during the operation, and the images had no connection to any military activity across the LoC.

Fact Check Verdict: Misleading and old photos used out of context.

An old image showing a crashed aircraft is being re-circulated by pro-Pakistan handles in various forms in the current context of #OperationSindoor#PIBFactcheckThe image is from an earlier incident involving an Indian Air Force (IAF) MiG-29 fighter jet that crashed in pic.twitter.com/6NJQvRH7KJ  PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 7, 2025

2. Viral Video Falsely Claiming Pakistan Attacked Srinagar Airbase

One of the most widely shared fake news pieces was a video claiming that Pakistan had retaliated by attacking the Srinagar Airbase. The video showed explosions and gunfire, presented as live visuals" from the base. Upon scrutiny, PIB traced the footage to old 2024 sectarian clashes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. It had nothing to do with the Indian Armed Forces or the Srinagar airbase.

Fact Check Verdict: False. The video was from Pakistan, not India.

In a video shared by several pro-Pakistan handles, it is being falsely claimed that the Pakistan Airforce has targeted Srinagar airbase#PIBFactCheck The video shared is old and NOT from India. The video is from sectarian clashes that took place in the year 2024, in pic.twitter.com/vPmMq4IWdE  PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 7, 2025

3. Fabricated Story of Indian Army Brigade HQ Being Destroyed

In a more audacious fabrication, some Pakistani social media users shared posts claiming that Pakistan had destroyed an Indian Army brigade headquarters in Rajouri. No such incident occurred. PIB quickly flagged the content as fake, emphasising that no Indian military installation was attacked post-Sindoor.

Fact Check Verdict: Fake news with zero basis in fact.

Social media posts falsely claims that Pakistan destroyed Indian Brigade Headquarters.#PIBFactCheck This claim is #FAKE  Please avoid sharing unverified information and rely only on official sources from the Government of India for accurate information. pic.twitter.com/9W5YLjBubp  PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 7, 2025

4. Old Videos & Images Repurposed to Show Pakistani Retaliation

Several old clips from conflicts in Gaza, Afghanistan, and even gaming simulations were recycled by Pakistani accounts to depict supposed Pakistani retaliation. Some videos even used altered audio tracks to simulate bombing runs or air-raid sirens. PIB, along with other independent fact-checking agencies, identified and exposed multiple such examples where either timestamps, metadata, or previous news reports revealed the true origins of the footage.

Fact Check Verdict: Manipulated or unrelated media used to mislead audiences.

5. Misinformation from Verified & Semi-Official Accounts

Not all disinformation post-Operation Sindoor came from anonymous trolls or fringe accounts. A more insidious wave emerged from blue-check verified handles  including retired military officers, political influencers, and commentators known to amplify pro-Pakistan narratives.

One such handle, followed by thousands, shared an old video from Gaza, falsely claiming it showed Indian casualties from a supposed Pakistani counterstrike. Another prominent ex-bureaucrat tweeted that an Indian Air Force base had been seriously damaged," a claim that was quickly proven false but gained traction before being taken down.

6. False Claim of Aircraft Crash on School in Kashmir

International influencer and podcaster Mario Nawfal, followed by millions on social media, tweeted that a fighter jet had crashed onto a school building in Kashmir during the events surrounding Operation Sindoor  suggesting a serious escalation or mishap by Indian forces. However, no such incident occurred, and there was no confirmation from Indian defence authorities, local administrations, or verified media outlets. The claim spread rapidly, especially among foreign accounts, before being widely debunked.

 AIRCRAFT CRASHES ON SCHOOL IN INDIAN KASHMIR | MILITARY SEALS OFF CRASH SITEAn unidentified aircraft has crashed onto a school building in Wuyan village in the Pampore area on the outskirts of Srinagar, the main city in Indian-controlled Kashmir. The incident occurred https://t.co/NYLP4JHpNV pic.twitter.com/YrIQBwinmD  Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) May 7, 2025

Fact-checkers noted that no images or videos accompanied the claim, and no local eyewitness reports or credible journalists in Kashmir corroborated it. It was assessed to be speculative, possibly derived from confusion or disinformation seeded by Pakistani social media networks.

Fact Check Verdict: No such crash took place. The claim was unverified, alarmist, and inconsistent with on-ground reports.

7. False Claim of Indian Rafale Jet Shot Down by Pakistan

A separate video, widely shared by Pakistani handles, claimed that Pakistan had shot down an Indian Rafale fighter jet in retaliation for Operation Sindoor. The dramatic footage, showing an aircraft spiralling with smoke before crashing, was presented as breaking news. The PIBs Fact Check team officially debunked the video, stating it was completely fake and unrelated to any recent incident. There were no losses of Rafale jets in the operation, and no evidence supported the claim.

Fact Check Verdict: Fake video, falsely linked to a Rafale, used to manufacture a false narrative of successful retaliation.

Thats a video of Pakistani training aircraft which crashed in April. Not Indian Rafale. https://t.co/u1EMPLV2tP pic.twitter.com/wdgVS2LBKz Mohammed Zubair (@zoo_bear) May 7, 2025

A Battle Beyond The Border: The Propaganda War

The misinformation blitz following Operation Sindoor signals a deliberate attempt to control the narrative amid diplomatic embarrassment in Islamabad. By manufacturing a fictitious counter-offensive, Pakistan appears to be trying to manage domestic perception while simultaneously misleading the global community.

However, Indias rapid countermeasures  both military and informational  have worked to blunt this campaign.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Reinforced Advisory From Indian Authorities

Citizens are urged to rely solely on official government sources for updates  including @PIBFactCheck, @adgpi, and @DefenceMinIndia. In an age of rapid information," the advisory notes, unverified claims can cause panic, jeopardise national security, and aid adversarial propaganda."

About the Author Karishma Jain Karishma Jain, Chief Sub Editor at News18.com, writes and edits opinion pieces on a variety of subjects, including Indian politics and policy, culture and the arts, technology and social change. Follow her @kar... Read More Karishma Jain, Chief Sub Editor at News18.com, writes and edits opinion pieces on a variety of subjects, including Indian politics and policy, culture and the arts, technology and social change. Follow her @kar... Read More

First Published: May 07, 2025, 15:08 IST
How Was Operation Sindoor Executed? Weapons Used, Time Of Pahalgam Retaliation | Exclusive

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Ashesh Mallick



Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 08:27 IST

The Indian armed forces struck deep inside Pakistan on Wednesday, avenging the Pahalgam terror attack.

Operation Sindoor: India strikes back at Pakistan (AP Image)

The Indian armed forces avenged the Pahalgam terror attack with precision strikes on terror camps early Wednesday. The forces named the retaliatory action as Operation Sindoor  a name which was approved by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Speaking to CNN-News18, a senior defence official detailed how the attacks were carried out against the terror hideouts, including on the headquarters of terror outfits Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Recommended Stories

The official informed the precision weapons were used to hit the targets deep inside Pakistan without crossing the Line of Control.

There were 9 targets in total  4 in Pakistan and 5 in PoK  which were struck in close coordination by the Indian Army and Air Force.

The retaliation was non-contact" in nature, and in military terms, called kinetic action".

The precision weapons were used. Artillery smart ammunition, RPAs, fighter jets. There were 9 targets  2 were of the Indian Air Force and 7 were of the Army. We have not crossed the LoC. There is pinpoint navigation system that strikes the targets. The operation was non-contact in nature without crossing the LoC. This is called non-contact kinetic action. The action took place between 1 am to 1.30 am," the official said.

The attack was announced by the Indian Army on its official X handle after midnight.

The entire operation was monitored by the Prime Minister, who had vowed to pursue terrorists to the ends of the earth" after the Pahalgam terror attack.

Pakistan has denied harbouring any terror camps on its soil, however, its claims were called out on Live television, leaving the country internationally embarrassed.

Islamabad claimed that India struck civilian areas without giving any proof.

The country has resorted to fake news peddling, claiming to have shot down Indian jets, again without providing any evidence for the brazen claims.

India struck targeted important bases of terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba. Key places hit included Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Kotli, according to officials and sources.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Sources told CNN-News18 that the strikes were meant to break the leadership of both groups, which are known to operate from Pakistan. The main bases of Jaish and Lashkar were hit successfully. This strike had a bigger impact than Indias earlier responses," a senior official said.

They also said that Operation Sindoor killed at least 17 terrorists and injured around 60 others.

About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

First Published: May 07, 2025, 08:10 IST
India-Pakistan 1971 War: When Indira Gandhi Called And Golda Meir Answered

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 15:20 IST

Operation Sindoor: Israels public support to India is no longer a diplomatic outlier. Its a continuation of a historical arc that began with Golda Meirs bold decision in 1971

Despite not having formal diplomatic ties, then Israeli PM Golda Meir approved a clandestine operation to supply weapons and ammunition to India in 1971. (News18 Hindi)

India on Wednesday launched airstrikes against terror hideouts in Pakistan under the codename Operation Sindoor as a decisive and swift retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack last month in which 26 tourists were brutally murdered.

Amid the global reactions to Operation Sindoor, one voice rang out with unmistakable clarity  Israels ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, who tweeted in solidarity, Israel supports Indias right for self defence. Terrorists should know theres no place to hide from their heinous crimes against the innocent."

Recommended Stories

Behind these words stood a 50-year-old legacy of friendship, first forged in the secrecy of another war, another time.

Israels Help in 1971

It was July 1971, and the skies over East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) were dark with the smoke of genocide. The Pakistani army, acting under General Yahya Khans brutal command, launched a campaign of terror against Bengali-speaking Muslims. As lakhs fled across the border into India, then-prime minister Indira Gandhi stood at a crossroads. International support was absent  then United States President Nixon backed Pakistan, and India faced isolation.

In that hour of need, Israel quietly extended a lifeline.

Despite not having formal diplomatic ties, Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir approved a clandestine operation to supply weapons and ammunition to India  equipment originally earmarked for Iran. Mortars, arms, and Israeli trainers were dispatched in utmost secrecy. Shlomo Jabludowicz, a key figure in Israeli defence manufacturing, facilitated the operation.

There was one condition: India must eventually recognise Israel. That wish wouldnt be fulfilled until 1992 under Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao, but the seed of friendship had been sown in 1971, against all odds.

The details, recorded by Indira Gandhis aide PN Haksar, are preserved in the Nehru Memorial Museum today. He called it an amazing small success", but its strategic and symbolic impact was anything but small. That support helped both the Indian Army and Mukti Bahini push back the tide of oppression. On December 16, 1971, Pakistan surrendered, and Bangladesh was born.

Indias foreign policy in those years was complex. Public support for Palestine, concerns over domestic Muslim sentiment, and dependency on Arab oil made relations with Israel diplomatically risky. Still, Golda Meirs gamble proved prophetic. Trust laid in silence grew stronger with time.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

In the decades that followed, the quiet partnership evolved. By 1992, ties were formalised. Israel provided crucial support in the 1999 Kargil War, and in 2017, Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the first Indian leader to visit Israel, cementing a relationship based on shared intelligence, defence cooperation, and counterterrorism.

Israels public support is no longer a diplomatic outlier. Its a continuation of a historical arc that began with Golda Meirs bold decision. From the clandestine corridors of 1971 to the open skies of 2025, India and Israel have walked a long road together.

First Published: May 07, 2025, 15:19 IST
India Strikes Jaish, Lashkar Terrorist Camps To Avenge Pahalgam; Pakistan Spreads Lies

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 05:17 IST

The Indian military's precision strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir solely targeted terror camps affiliated with Islamabad-based terror groups

Indian security forces near LoC | File Image/Reuters

The Indian militarys precision strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir solely targeted terror camps affiliated with Islamabad-based terror groups, including Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad.

The Ministry of Defence said that Indian Armed Forces struck nine terror bases in Pakistan and PoK, reportedly from where terrorist attacks against India were orchestrated, under the codename Operation Sindoor.

Recommended Stories

A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched OPERATION SINDOOR, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," Indias Ministry of Defence said.

The ministry added that the operation was launched in response to the barbaric" terrorist attack in Pahalgam that killed 25 Indian nationals and a Nepali citizen.

Pakistan Spreading Lies

Amid Indias military action against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, Islamabad tried hard to push a narrative on social media, with claims that Indian strikes hit mosques and madrasas in Bahawalpur.

It added that public places are being evacuated amid fears of more Indian strikes.

Meanwhile, top sources told news agency ANI that out of the nine targets successfully hit by the Indian forces, four are in Pakistan and five in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The defence officials added that all targeted places were linked with terror activities.

The targets in Pakistan include Bahawalpur, Muridke and Sialkot. Special precision munitions were used to target the terror camps. The three services jointly carried out the operation and mobilisation of assets and troops, it added.

The Pakistani military confirmed that Indian missiles had struck multiple locations inside Pakistani territory, including Kotli, Bahawalpur, Muridke, Bagh and Muzaffarabad, according to a report by Dawn.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Some time ago from now, the cowardly enemy India launched air strikes on Subhanullah mosque in Bahwalpurs Ahmed East area, Kotli and Muzaffarabad at three places from the air," said Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry during a late-night press briefing.

Muridke serves as the headquarters of the terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba, led by Hafiz Saeed, while Bahawalpur in Pakistans Punjab province is the base of Jaish-e-Mohammad, headed by Masood Azhar.

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 : Jammu and Kashmir, India, India

First Published: May 07, 2025, 05:16 IST
India Strikes Pakistan: What Happened, What It Means, And Whats Next | FAQs Answered

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 04:55 IST

The Indian military struck selective terror bases in Pakistan and PoK, reportedly from where terrorist attacks were orchestrated, under the codename 'Operation Sindoor'.

Indian launches 'Operation Sindoor' to hit terror bases in Pakistan and PoK | Image.X

India Strikes Pakistan FAQs: The Indian Armed Forces conducted precision strikes using advanced weapon systems, including loitering munitions, on terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir in response to the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 people on April 22.

The Indian military struck selective terror bases in Pakistan and PoK, reportedly from where terrorist attacks were orchestrated, under the codename Operation Sindoor.

Recommended Stories

A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched OPERATION SINDOOR, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," Indias Ministry of Defence said.

India Hits Pakistan: What Happened

According to the Ministry of Defence, the Indian Armed Forces struck nine sites in Pakistan and PoK, all being categorised as terror bases affiliated to Pakistan-based terror groups Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad.

Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution," the Ministry of Defence said.

The ministry added that the operation was launched in response to the barbaric" terrorist attack in Pahalgam that killed 25 Indian nationals and a Nepali citizen.

Targeted Sites In Pakistan, PoK

The Pakistani military confirmed that Indian missiles had struck multiple locations inside Pakistani territory, including Kotli, Bahawalpur, Muridke, Bagh and Muzaffarabad, according to a report by Dawn.

Some time ago from now, the cowardly enemy India launched air strikes on Subhanullah mosque in Bahwalpurs Ahmed East area, Kotli and Muzaffarabad at three places from the air," said Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry during a late-night press briefing.

CNN-News18 has accessed the first visuals from Muzaffarabad, showing a building reduced to rubble following an Indian airstrike that reportedly targeted a terror base in retaliation for the recent deadly attack in Pahalgam.

Meanwhile, Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif said that Indian strikes targeted five locations in the country, adding that Islamabad will respond to the strikes with full force.

The treacherous enemy has launched a cowardly attack on five locations within Pakistan. This heinous act of aggression will not go unpunished. Pakistan reserves the absolute right to respond decisively to this unprovoked Indian attack  a resolute response is already underway."

The treacherous enemy has launched a cowardly attack on five locations within Pakistan. This heinous act of aggression will not go unpunished.Pakistan reserves the absolute right to respond decisively to this unprovoked Indian attack  a resolute response is already underway. Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 6, 2025

World Leaders React

Moments after Indian missiles targeted terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as part of Operation Sindoor, US President Donald Trump responded, expressing hope that the conflict would end very quickly."

Its a shame. We just heard about it as we were walking in the doors of the oval. Just heard about it. I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. Theyve been fighting for a long time. Theyve been fighting for many, many decades. And centuries, actually, if you think about it. I hope it ends very quickly," Trump said.

Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said: The Secretary-General is very concerned about the Indian military operations across the Line of Control and international border. He calls for maximum military restraint from both countries. The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan."

What Next?

As the Indian military struck terror camps in Pakistan and PoK, the Islamabad leaders vowed to respond with full force, with the Pakistani PM saying that the country reserves the absolute right to respond decisively to this unprovoked Indian attack."

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Meanwhile, India has announced a nationwide civil defence mock drill on May 7 aimed at enhancing emergency preparedness and public awareness.

Scheduled across major cities, the drill will simulate disaster scenarios including air raids and natural calamities. Authorities have urged citizens to cooperate and not panic, emphasising the exercise is purely precautionary and for training purposes.

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 : Jammu and Kashmir, India, India

First Published: May 07, 2025, 04:35 IST
Indian Embassy Calls Out Chinese Daily Global Times For 'Disinformation' After Operation Sindoor

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Karishma Jain



Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 17:02 IST

After striking terror camps across the border, India has hit back in the information war, this time targeting Chinas state media for parroting Pakistans line

The embassy took to X to issue a strong rebuttal, calling out the Global Times for what it described as "biased and mischievous" reporting.

In a rare and pointed response, the Indian Embassy in Beijing has publicly criticised Chinese state-run outlet Global Times for spreading disinformation" in the wake of Operation Sindoor  Indias precision military strikes on terror launchpads in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

The embassy took to X to issue a strong rebuttal, calling out the Global Times for what it described as biased and mischievous" reporting that sought to question Indias counter-terror operations. It is unfortunate that some media outlets continue to peddle disinformation on serious matters," the embassy said in a post from its official handle.

Recommended Stories

(1/n) Dear @globaltimesnews , we would recommend you verify your facts and cross-examine your sources before pushing out this kind of dis-information. https://t.co/xMvN6hmrhe India in China (@EOIBeijing) May 7, 2025

While the Global Times piece reportedly echoed Pakistans narrative and raised questions over Indias actions, the embassy underlined that such portrayals distort ground realities and do not serve the cause of regional peace or stability."

The sharp diplomatic retort comes amid heightened geopolitical sensitivities in the region following the Pahalgam terror attack and Indias subsequent strikes under Operation Sindoor. It also signals New Delhis intent to push back not just militarily but diplomatically, especially against attempts to reframe its anti-terror actions as destabilising moves.

Indias Operation Sindoor has triggered not just on-ground reactions but also a parallel war of narratives  one that New Delhi appears increasingly unwilling to let go unchallenged.

The Global Times had published claims quoting unnamed Pakistani military sources that the Pakistan Air Force had shot down three Indian fighter jets in retaliation for the strikes  an allegation India flatly rejected. Dear @globaltimesnews, we would recommend you verify your facts and cross-examine your sources before pushing out this kind of disinformation," the Indian Embassy wrote in a detailed thread.

It also highlighted that several pro-Pakistan handles were circulating fake visuals and narratives tied to Operation Sindoor. Indias fact-checking arm, PIB Fact Check, exposed two viral images being recycled from past incidents  a MiG-29 crash in Rajasthan (2024) and a MiG-21 crash in Punjab (2021)  both unrelated to the current operation.

ALSO READ | Fact-Checked And Exposed: Pakistans Lies That Followed Indias Operation Sindoor

India further laid out the context of Operation Sindoor: a response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in which Pakistan-backed Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists brutally murdered 26 civilians, including a Nepali national. Victims were reportedly identified by religion before being executed  many with close-range headshots in front of their families.

The Resistance Front (TRF), a front for Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility. India had already warned the UN Security Councils 1267 Monitoring Committee in 2023 and 2024 about TRFs use by proscribed Pakistani groups, and flagged Pakistans efforts to pressure the UN into removing TRF references from a recent UNSC press statement.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Despite this, Pakistan has not taken any demonstrable action to dismantle terror infrastructure in its territory. India cited credible intelligence inputs about further planned attacks as the reason behind its measured, proportionate, and responsible" military response aimed at deterring escalation while pre-empting further violence.

The world must show zero tolerance for terrorism," India concluded, while making it clear that media complicity in false narratives only serves to embolden terror propaganda.

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: May 07, 2025, 16:45 IST
Israel Backs Indias Right To Self-Defence After Operation Sindoor, Turkey Expresses Solidarity With Pakistan

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 08:43 IST

Israel's support came just a few hours after India launched a series of targeted precision strikes under Operation Sindoor against terror camps in PoK.

Operation Sindoor: India struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. (Photos: X)

Just a few hours after India launched a precision strike targeting nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), Israel has extended its support to New Delhi, defending its right to self-defence.

Ambassador of Israel to India, Reuven Azar took to X and shared that Israel supports Indias right to self-defense. Terrorists should know theres no place to hide from their heinous crimes against the innocent," he added.

Recommended Stories

Israel supports Indias right for self defense. Terrorists should know theres no place to hide from their heinous crimes against the innocent. #OperationSindoor  Reuven Azar (@ReuvenAzar) May 7, 2025

Israels support came just a few hours after India launched a series of targeted precision strikes under Operation Sindoor against terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on the intervening night of Tuesday-Wednesday. The Indian response came almost a fortnight after the Pahalgam terror attack.

Notably, while Israel backed India over its fight against terrorism, Turkeys Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan called his Pakistani counterpart Ishaq Dar and discussed the latest developments in a phone call. The call came in the wake of what has been described as unprovoked aggression by Indian forces.

According to Pakistans Foreign Ministry, Turkey expressed solidarity with Pakistan and expressed concern over the deteriorating regional security situation. Both leaders agreed to remain in close coordination on the evolving situation.

Indian Missiles Hit Terror Camps In Pakistan

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Indian missiles struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) late on Tuesday night, two weeks after 26 people were killed in Pahalgam terror attack.

New Delhi described the strikes  called Operation Sindoor  as measured and non-escalatory," stressing that no Pakistani military facilities were targeted. However, the strikes were carefully calibrated, with precision targeting.

About the Author Mahima Joshi Mahima Joshi, Sub-Editor at News18.com, works with the India and Breaking team. Covering national stories and bringing breaking news to the table are her forte. She is deeply interested in Indian politics and a... Read More Mahima Joshi, Sub-Editor at News18.com, works with the India and Breaking team. Covering national stories and bringing breaking news to the table are her forte. She is deeply interested in Indian politics and a... Read More

First Published: May 07, 2025, 08:43 IST
Jaish Chief Masood Azhar's Sister, Brother-In-Law Among 10 Of His Family Killed In Indian Strikes

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 17:38 IST

Operation Sindoor: India carried out retaliatory strikes against terrorist camps in Pakistan and PoK under Operation Sindoor.

Operation Sindoor: Family members of Masood Azhar killed (AP File Image)

In a massive development, Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhars 10 family members, including his sister, were killed in the Indian strikes inside Pakistans Bahawalpur, in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack early Wednesday.

The UN-designated terrorists brother-in-law was also among the family members blown up in the strikes.

Recommended Stories

Several Members Of Masood Azhars Family Wiped Off

The Indian armed forces struck terrorist camps in Pakistans Punjab and PoK. 4 targets were hit in Punjab, where the headquarters of Jaish and Lashkar are located, while 5 targets were destroyed in PoK, officials said. As many as 21 terror camps across 9 targets were carried out within 25 minutes late Tuesday night, around 1 am to 1.30 am.

Also Read: Who Is Masood Azhar, Jaish-e-Mohammed Chief Who Was Let Off After IC-814 Hijacking?

Masood Azhar released a statement, admitting that 10 of his family members were killed in the Indian strikes. The Pakistani media had reported that 14 people were killed in his house. Their funeral will take place at Bahawalpur in Pakistans Punjab.

One of the two major strikes in Operation Sindoor was on the Subhan Allah complex in Bahawalpur. The government highlighted that the strikes did not take place on the military establishments of Pakistan but on the terror camps.

Qari Mohd Iqbal, a Lashkar religious preacher, was also killed in PoKs Kotli.

The government also said that there are no reports of any civilian casualties, fact-checking Pakistans claims of civilian areas being targeted in the attack.

Pakistan, which earlier termed any military action by India as an act of war", said that the country is ready to stand down if India halts its operations.

This has been initiated by India. If India is ready to back down, they have taken the initiative, we have just responded. We have been saying this that we will never initiate anything hostile towards India. But if we are attacked, we will respond. If India backs down, we will definitely wrap up these things. But as long as we are under fire, we have to respond," Asif told a news channel.

India also warned Pakistan against pursuing any misadventures" that may escalate the situation.

No military establishment was targeted, and there are no reports of civilian casualties. It must be said that the Indian armed forces are fully prepared to respond to a Pakistani misadventure, if any, that will escalate the situation. Terror targets were chosen based on credible intelligence and their involvement in cross-border terrorism," Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said at a press briefing.

Who Is Masood Azhar?

Azhar is a UN-designated terrorist who founded terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed in Pakistan. His terror outfit carried out several terrorist attacks in India, including the 2001 Parliament attack in Delhi, the 2016 Pathankot airbase attack, 2019 Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF jawans were killed.

Is Masood Azhar Dead Or Alive?

Masood Azhar, mastermind behind the 2001 Parliament attack in New Delhi, had been missing from the public view for several months and had only resurfaced in Bahawalpur around the end of 2024.

The Indian intelligence had a close eye on his movements. Latest satellite imagery and human intelligence revealed that he had resumed command over the terrorist activities from within the walled complex.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

However, as reports of his family members being taken down in the Indian strikes surfaced, the question follows whether Azhar  Indias one of the most wanted terrorists  is dead too.

We are verifying ground-level intelligence, but signs point to the possibility that Azhar was present in the facility at the time of the attack," News18 Hindi quoted a senior defence official as saying under condition of anonymity.

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: May 07, 2025, 11:47 IST
JeM, LeT Camps In Bahawalpur, Muridke, Kotli Among 9 Targets In Indias Anti-Terror Strike

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 06:56 IST

Operation Sindoor is Indias retaliation against Pakistan-backed terrorists who killed innocent tourists in Pahalgam.

Pakistani residents watch as India strikes a terrorist stronghold in Bahawalpur under Operation Sindoor. (IMAGE: SOURCED)

In a calibrated and cross-border military response to the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, India launched Operation Sindoor early Wednesday, striking nine sites sheltering terrorists across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The targets included strongholds of groups like Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba, with Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Kotli among the key locations hit, according to official and on-ground sources.

Recommended Stories

OPERATION SINDOOR: CATCH ALL THE LATEST UPDATES HERE

Sources speaking to CNN-News18 said that the strikes were aimed specifically at crippling the leadership structures of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), two of the most prominent terror outfits operating from Pakistani soil. The terror headquarters of Jaish and Lashkar were successfully hit. The impact is far greater than previous Indian responses," a senior official said.

They said that Operation Sindoor has resulted in the deaths of at least 17 terrorists and injuries to 60 others.

ALSO READ: India Strikes Pakistan: What Happened, What It Means, And Whats Next | FAQs Answered

Officials also pointed out that the strikes were aimed only at locations sheltering terrorists and did not target civilian sites.

Operation Sindoor is Indias retaliation against the killing of innocent civilians at the hands of terrorists trained in and based out of Pakistan, who gunned down 26 innocent civilians, most of them tourists.

ALSO READ: Muzaffarabad Terror Camp Destroyed In Indias Strikes, First Visuals Surface

News agency ANI citing its own sources said that India struck four targets in Pakistan and five in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The targets in Pakistan include Bahawalpur, Muridke and Sialkot. Special precision munitions were used to target the terror camps. The three services jointly carried out the operation and mobilisation of assets and troops," sources told the news agency.

The terror hubs struck in Operation Sindoor were handpicked locations where Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad had built recruitment pipelines and training grounds, sources told CNN-News18.

Prime Minister Monitored Operation

Sources also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi monitored the entire operation.

Shortly after the precision ops, senior Indian officials reached out to their counterparts in the US, UK, Saudi Arabia, UAE and Russia to brief them on Indias counter-terror operation.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval also briefed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio shortly after New Delhis strikes on Pakistan, the Indian embassy in Washington said Tuesday (local time).

Indias actions have been focused and precise," the embassy said in a statement, adding that Rubio, who is also currently the acting US national security advisor, had been briefed on the actions taken."

About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More

First Published: May 07, 2025, 05:36 IST
Maharashtra Launches Adishakti Abhiyan for Women Empowerment, Allocates Rs 10.50 Crore

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 20:02 IST

The Adishakti Abhiyan aims to ensure effective implementation and awareness of various government schemes for women and children

The campaign will address key issues such as malnutrition, infant and maternal mortality, domestic violence, sexual harassment, and child marriage. (File)

The Maharashtra Cabinet has approved the launch of the Adishakti Abhiyan, a move to strengthen grassroots womens empowerment. The announcement was made during a special cabinet meeting held at Choundi, the birthplace of Ahilyabai Holkar, on the occasion of her 300th birth anniversary.

The Adishakti Abhiyan aims to ensure the effective implementation and awareness of various government schemes for women and children. The campaign will address key issues such as malnutrition, infant and maternal mortality, domestic violence, sexual harassment, and child marriage. It will also promote increased participation of women in the Panchayati Raj system.

Recommended Stories

To ensure smooth implementation, committees will be formed at the village, taluka, district, divisional, and state levels. These committees will play an active role in spreading awareness, identifying local issues, and delivering timely solutions. A mandatory participation of all Panchayat Samitis has been outlined under this campaign.

The government will also introduce the Adishakti Awards to encourage active participation and reward outstanding work. Gram Panchayats will be evaluated annually from January 1 to December 31, and award ceremonies will be held in the first week of March. Selection will occur at the taluka, district, and state levels.

The village committees will work in coordination with Anganwadi workers and Taluka Protection Officers to counsel families, prevent child marriages, and support victims of domestic violence. They will also be responsible for ensuring that girls and women are protected from harassment and receive proper access to welfare schemes.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

A total budget of Rs 10.50 crore has been approved for the campaigns execution. Any modifications required during implementation will be made with the approval of the state-level committee, chaired by the Minister for Women and Child Development.

Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare emphasised that under the leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, the government is committed to building an inclusive and empowered society.

About the Author Mayuresh Ganapatye Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. He previously worked with... Read More Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. He previously worked with... Read More

First Published: May 07, 2025, 20:00 IST
Mumbai Airport Gets Bomb Threat Call Targeting IndiGo Flight, Security Heightened

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 09:50 IST

The IndiGo flight, which had been en route from Chandigarh, landed at the Mumbai airport late last night.

An IndiGo plane is seen. (Image Credit: PTI/ Representational)

Authorities at Mumbais Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport were on high alert after a bomb threat was received concerning an IndiGo flight arriving from Chandigarh. The threat was made via a phone call to the airport hotline, mentioning the intent to detonate a bomb on the aircraft.

The IndiGo flight, which had been en route from Chandigarh, landed at the Mumbai airport late last night.

Recommended Stories

Following the threat, security protocols were immediately activated. The aircraft was secured in an isolated area, and a thorough search operation was conducted by security personnel.

Nothing suspicious has been discovered on board the aircraft however the police are continuing their investigation into the source and credibility of the bomb threat.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

The threat comes as India targeted nine facilities associated with Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen in Pakistan and PoK in an operation codenamed Operation Sindoor. This action was in direct response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians.

Earlier, IndiGo announced via X (formerly Twitter) that flight operations to and from Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, and Dharamshala were experiencing disruptions due to evolving airspace conditions. A later update from the airline also noted that services to and from Bikaner were similarly affected by the ongoing airspace restrictions.

About the Author Mallika Soni When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?"

First Published: May 07, 2025, 09:37 IST
Muzaffarabad Terror Camp Destroyed In India's Strikes, First Visuals Surface

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 03:32 IST

CNN-News18 has accessed the first visuals from Muzaffarabad, showing a building reduced to rubble following an Indian airstrike

Visuals of damage in a permanent structure in Muzaffarabad | Image.CNN-News18

The Indian Armed Forces struck terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir in response to the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians on April 22.

As part of Operation Sindoor, the Indian strikes hit a total of nine locations believed to be involved in orchestrating attacks against India, including Muzaffarabad, a city in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Recommended Stories

The Pakistani military confirmed that Indian missiles had struck multiple locations inside Pakistani territory, including Kotli, Bahawalpur, Muridke, Bagh and Muzaffarabad, according to a report by Dawn.

Some time ago from now, the cowardly enemy India launched air strikes on Subhanullah mosque in Bahwalpurs Ahmed East area, Kotli and Muzaffarabad at three places from the air," said Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry during a late-night press briefing.

CNN-News18 has accessed the first visuals from Muzaffarabad, showing a building reduced to rubble following an Indian airstrike that reportedly targeted a terror base in retaliation for the recent deadly attack in Pahalgam.

The images highlight significant structural damage. Take a look at the images below:

Pakistan Reacts To Indian Retaliation

According to DG ISPR Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, the strikes killed one child and injured 12 people in Ahmedpur East, while two civilians were killed in Kotli.

He also said that Pakistan Air Force had deployed jets in response. All of our air force jets are airborne. This cowardly and shameful attack was carried out from within Indias airspace. They were never allowed to come and intrude into the space of Pakistan."

Lt Gen Chaudhry added that Pakistans response would come at its discretion. Let me say it unequivocally: Pakistan will respond to this at a time and place of its own choosing."

Meanwhile, Indias Ministry of Defence confirmed that the Indian Armed Forces had launched Operation Sindoor," targeting nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched OPERATION SINDOOR, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," the ministry said.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

The Pakistan-based Lashkar terror group had claimed the responsibility for Pahalgam attack, sparking outrage in India, with demands coming from all across for a strong retaliation.

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 : Jammu and Kashmir, India, India

First Published: May 07, 2025, 03:31 IST
No Military, Civilian Site Hit In Indian Ops, But Pakistani Misadventure Will Escalate Situation: Govt

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 12:07 IST

The Indian armed forces launched precision strikes against terrorist camps in Pakistan and PoK to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack last month.

Operation Sindoor: India warns Pakistan against any misadventure (Photo: X)

Within hours of carrying out Operation Sindoor in Pakistan and PoK, the government on Wednesday warned the neighbouring country against resorting to any misadventure" that may escalate the situation.

The government also made it clear that only the terrorist camps that have been used to plan and execute previous terror attacks in India and which were planning to further carry out similar attacks were targeted, and highlighted in no uncertain terms that no military establishments were targeted by the Indian forces.

Recommended Stories

Govt Briefs Nation On Operation Sindoor

No military establishment was targeted, and there are no reports of civilian casualties. It must be said that the Indian armed forces are fully prepared to respond to a Pakistani misadventure, if any, that will escalate the situation," said Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who was present at the joint press conference with Col Sofiya Qureshi, both of who represented the armed forces and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, representing the government.

The officer said that nine terror camps were targeted and successfully destroyed. The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives," she said.

Terror targets were chosen based on credible intelligence and their involvement in cross-border terrorism," Col Qureshi informed.

India avenged the killings of 26 civilians in the Pahalgam terror attack with precision strikes deep inside Pakistans Punjab (4 targets) and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (5 targets), including headquarters of terror outfits JeM and LeT. At least 17 terrorists were reportedly killed in Indian strikes and over 60 were injured.

Notably, minutes before the governments stern warning, Pakistans Defence Minister Khawaja Asif had said that Islamabad is ready to refrain from any escalation if New Delhi backs down".

This has been initiated by India. If India is ready to back down, they have taken the initiative, we have just responded. We have been saying this that we will never initiate anything hostile towards India. But if we are attacked, we will respond. If India backs down, we will definitely wrap up these things. But as long as we are under fire, we have to respond," Asif told a news channel.

India Exposes Pakistans Role In Terror Attacks In India

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Misri, who began the briefing on behalf of the government, exposed Pakistans hand behind the terror attacks in India and said that Lashkar-e-Taibas offshoot The Resistance Front claimed responsibility for the attack and the investigations into the Pahalgam terror attack have revealed the communication notes of terrorists in and to Pakistan".

Our intelligence indicated that further attacks against India are impending. Thus, compulsion, both to deter and prevent and hence earlier this morning, India exercised its right to respond to deter such more cross-border terrorism Our actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate, and responsible. They focused on dismantling terrorists infrastructure," he said.

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: May 07, 2025, 11:04 IST
Operation Sindoor Against Pakistan Was Not Balakot 2.0: The Pahalgam Retaliation Was Bigger & Better

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 16:23 IST

While Operation Sindoor was a reminder of the 2019 retaliation of Pulwama attack or even 2016 surgical strikes, the airstrikes were not Balakot 2.0. Heres why

A map showing the targets of Operation Sindoor. (PTI)

India early on Wednesday launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir to avenge the killing of 26 in Kashmirs Pahalgam on April 22. The Resistance Front (TRF), a shadow group of Pakistans Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT), had claimed responsibility for the killings.

While the airstrikes were a reminder of the 2019 retaliation of Pulwama attack or even 2016 surgical strikes, they were certainly not Balakot 2.0. Heres why.

Recommended Stories

OPERATION SINDOOR

India struck nine terror locations in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) from 1.05 am to 1.30 am. These included strikes in Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Sialkot, Barnala and Bahawalpur.

ALSO READ | From Abbottabads Neptune Spear To Operation Sindoor, Pakistani Forces Caught Off Guard Once Again

These facilities trained terrorists and were also instrumental in the infiltration of Lashkar, Hizbul and JeM terrorists into India.

The nine sites were:

Markaz Subhan Allah, Bahawalpur  JeM Markaz Taiba, Muridke  LeT Sarjal, Tehra Kalan  JeM Mehmoona Joya, Sialkot  HM Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala  LeT Markaz Abbas, Kotli  JeM Maskar Raheel Shahid, Kotli  HM Shawai Nalla Camp, Muzaffarabad  LeT Syedna Bilal Camp, Muzaffarabad  JeM

#BreakingNews | The audacity of terroriststelling victims families to go tell your Modi" is a pathetic attempt to intimidate India. Operation Sindoor is Indias response to such cowardly acts: Vikram Misri#OperationSindoor #IndiaPakistanWar #IndianArmyPressConference pic.twitter.com/Obbw62F8Go News18 (@CNNnews18) May 7, 2025

PRECISION STRIKES

No military establishment was targeted, and there are no reports of civilian casualties. It must be said that the Indian armed forces are fully prepared to respond to a Pakistani misadventure, if any, that will escalate the situation," said Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who was present at the joint press conference with Col Sofiya Qureshi, both of who represented the armed forces and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, representing the government.

The officer said that nine terror camps were targeted and successfully destroyed. The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives," she said. Terror targets were chosen based on credible intelligence and their involvement in cross-border terrorism," Col Qureshi informed.

The strikes were carried out entirely from Indian airspace using a mix of:

Loitering munitions (which hover before attacking)

Precision-guided missiles

Air Force, Navy, and Army strike coordination.

#WATCH | Delhi | #OperationSindoor| Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri says, " A group calling itself the Resistance Front has claimed responsibility for the attack. This group is a Front for UN proscribed Pakistani terrorist group Lashkar-e-TaibaInvestigations into the Pahalgam pic.twitter.com/JqpIbHrttN ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

THE BALAKOT AIRSTRIKES

On February 14, 2019, a convoy of vehicles carrying security personnel on the JammuSrinagar National Highway was attacked by a vehicle-borne suicide bomber at Lethpora in the Pulwama district, Jammu and Kashmir. The attack resulted in the deaths of 46 Central Reserve Police Force personnel and the attacker. The responsibility for the attack was claimed by the Pakistan-based Islamist militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed. On February 26, 2019, Indian Air Force Mirage-2000 jets bombed a JeM training camp in Balakot, in Pakistans Khyber Pakhtunkhawa province. Pakistan conducted retaliatory airstrikes on February 27 and captured IAF Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who was later returned.

Three years before Balakot, on 29 September 2016, India had crossed the Line of Control into PoK to attack targets up to a kilometer. The raid occurred ten days after four militants had attacked an Indian army outpost at Uri on September 18, 2016, killing 19 soldiers.

#WATCH | Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli located 9 km and 13 km from LoC, respectively, were targeted by the Indian Armed Forces as a part of #OperationSindoor pic.twitter.com/QnTp9tWsrS ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

WHAT WAS DIFFERENT?

Operation Sindoor Balakot Airstrikes Directly targeted multiple, geographically dispersed terror headquarters in Pakistan and PoK. Targeted a single JeM training camp in Pakistans Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

WHAT WAS NEW IN OPERATION SINDOOR?

Deeper targets, more scope: Sites near Lahore (Muridke) and Sialkot

Speed: All nine strikes occurred within 25 minutes.

Zero-intrusion strategy: The use of standoff weapons which minimised airspace breach and escalation risk

Precision: The Indian government stated that the operation was focused, measured, and non-escalatory, aiming to target terrorist infrastructure and avoid civilian casualties or military assets.

Focus on Accountability: India emphasised that the targeted sites were responsible for the Pahalgam terror strike, suggesting a focus on accountability and deterring future attacks.

#WATCH | Delhi | #OperationSindoor| Col. Sofiya Qureshi, while addressing the media, presents videos showing destroyed terror camps, including Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, which lies 12-18 km inside Pakistan.Its one of the biggest camps of Hizbul Mujahideen. It is one of the pic.twitter.com/g44j5c1NeH  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

Symbolic Significance: Sindoor, or vermillion, traditionally signifies the marital status of Hindu women and serves as a poignant reference to the April 22 Pahalgam massacre, where terrorists targeted and killed mensome newly marriedbased on their religion. It also holds symbolic pride, as a sindoor tilak is worn by warriors heading into battle.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Sophistication: Employed sophisticated precision munitions, including loitering drones. Security analyst Aadil Mir told ANI: India has crossed two India has crossed two significant thresholdsstriking multiple sites and targeting Pakistans heartland. This goes far beyond 2019."

Clear message: As Misri explained, this was Indias stance against terrorism. He said, Our intelligence agencies monitoring terrorist activities have indicated that there could be more attacks on India, and it was felt essential to both stop and tackle them. India exercised its right to respond to deter such more cross-border terrorism Our actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible. They focused on dismantling terrorists infrastructure. The audacity of terroriststelling victims families to go tell your Modi" was a pathetic attempt to intimidate India. Operation Sindoor is Indias response to such cowardly acts."

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: May 07, 2025, 13:06 IST
Operation Sindoor: 8-Year-Old Stabbed For Celebrating In UP's Shahjahanpur

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 17:09 IST

The child was reportedly chanting slogans like "Hindustan Zindabad" and "Pakistan Murdabad" when he was attacked by two men who have now been arrested

Both accused are currently being interrogated, and local police say they are working to maintain law and order in the area, (News18 Hindi)

In the aftermath of the high-intensity Operation Sindoor airstrike conducted by India against terror hubs in Pakistan, a disturbing incident unfolded in a small village of Uttar Pradeshs Shahjahanpur district. An eight-year-old boy was allegedly stabbed by two men during a public celebration of the airstrikes, sparking outrage and raising fresh concerns over communal harmony in the region.

Indian forces on Wednesday conducted a swift and targeted airstrike on nine suspected terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Operation Sindoor, reportedly lasting just 25 minutes, is widely being celebrated across the country, with citizens taking to the streets, lighting crackers, and distributing sweets in a display of patriotic fervour, just two weeks after Pakistan-backed terrorists kills 26 tourists in J&Ks Pahalgam.

Recommended Stories

But amid the nationwide celebrations, violence erupted in the village of Dharmgadapur. As per eyewitnesses, a child named Surjeet began chanting slogans like Hindustan Zindabad" and Pakistan Murdabad". It was then, locals claim, that two youths  identified as Mohid Khan and his associate Wasim  allegedly confronted the boy and attacked him with a knife.

The incident led to chaos at the scene. Enraged by the violence against a minor, bystanders reportedly overpowered both attackers and handed them over to the police after a beating. Surjeet was rushed to a nearby hospital where he is currently under medical care. Authorities say his condition is stable.

Shahjahanpur police have confirmed that a case has been registered against the two accused, who remain in custody. The police have launched a deeper probe into the motive behind the assault.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Both accused are currently being interrogated, and local police say they are working to maintain law and order in the area, which has grown tense following the incident.

We have urged locals to remain calm and not let a moment of national pride be tainted by acts of violence or retaliation," a senior district official told reporters, requesting anonymity.

Location : Uttar Pradesh, India, India

First Published: May 07, 2025, 17:04 IST
Operation Sindoor: Amit Shah Convenes Urgent Meet With States Sharing Border With Pakistan, Nepal

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 14:11 IST

India launched a series of targeted precision strikes under Operation Sindoor against terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah (PTI File Image)

Operation Sindoor: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has convened an urgent meeting with states that share a border with Pakistan and Nepal, hours after India launched military strikes at terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22.

Shah met with Chief Ministers, DGPs and Chief Secretaries of all border states. The Chief Ministers of Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim, and West Bengal were present at the meeting, along with LGs of Ladakh and J&K.

Recommended Stories

#WATCH | Delhi | Union Home Minister Amit Shah holds a meeting with Chief Ministers, DGPs and Chief Secretaries of border statesCMs of J&K, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim, West Bengal and LG of Ladakh and LG of Jammu and Kashmir pic.twitter.com/FXnGzTOGCV  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

India launched a series of targeted precision strikes under Operation Sindoor against terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on the intervening night of Tuesday-Wednesday, targeting terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Earlier, Amit Shah hailed the Indian Armed Forces, saying Operation Sindoor was Bharats response to the brutal killing of our innocent brothers in Pahalgam." He said the Modi government has resolved to give a befitting response to the attack on India.

Proud of our armed forces.#OperationSindoor is Bharats response to the brutal killing of our innocent brothers in Pahalgam.The Modi government is resolved to give a befitting response to any attack on India and its people. Bharat remains firmly committed to eradicating  Amit Shah (@AmitShah) May 7, 2025

Operation Sindoor: Follow Live Updates Here

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday briefed his cabinet colleagues about Indias retaliatory strikes over Pahalgam horror against terror camps in Pakistan and PoK under Operation Sindoor, calling it a moment of pride".

Describing the operation as a perfect strike by the armed forces", the Prime Minister informed the ministers about how the nine strikes were conducted  4 in Pakistans Punjab province and 5 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Hum sab ke liye garv ka pal hai (this is a moment of pride for all of us)," PM Modi told his ministers at the meeting, according to sources.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Indian intelligence agencies had earlier traced the Pahalgam attack to Pakistan-based groups, with The Resistance Front  a Lashkar-e-Taiba proxy  claiming responsibility. In response, India had vowed a decisive countermeasure, combining diplomatic pressure with military preparedness. Operation Sindoor marks one of the most significant cross-border actions taken by India since the Balakot airstrikes in 2019.

As many as 26 tourists were killed at the Baisaran Valley in Kashmirs Pahalgam, which drew condemnation from across the globe and enraged Indians. Emotions across the country were high, tensions on the borders were on the rise and demands to hit back at Pakistan were increasingly being made across the country with each passing day.

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: May 07, 2025, 13:51 IST
'Wrong To Say We Targeted Mosques': Foreign Secretary Briefs Envoys From 13 Nations On Op Sindoor

Reported By :

CNN-News18 Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee



Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 22:48 IST

Four points were raised at the meeting, including India's "targeted, measured and non-escalatory" response to the Pahalgam attack and the current escalation by the Pakistani side

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri held a briefing on Operation Sindoor for envoys from 13 UNSC member nations, in New Delhi on May 7. (Image: PTI)

Foreign secretary Vikram Misri on Wednesday told 13 envoys and representatives from UNSC member countries that it is wrong to say India targeted mosques during Operation Sindoor.

Misri said India has targeted nine sites linked to terror infrastructure. we have credible information that these facilities are those where terrorists were trained. Markaz is a complex and in such a complex, you have a playground, training groups; so particularly, mosques were not targeted so it is wrong to say that we targeted mosques," he said during the briefing.

Recommended Stories

The Indian armed forces early on Wednesday carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), including the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taibas (LeT) base Muridke.

During the briefing in Delhi, four points were raised, highlighting Indias targeted, measured and non-escalatory" response to the Pahalgam terror attack and the current escalation by the Pakistani side.

According to sources, Misri pointed out that The Resistance Front (TRF), a front for LeT, had first claimed responsibility for the terror attack and then backed out after it realised that it has to be a shield". He conveyed that Pakistan tried hard to bring out a UNSC statement and it is clear that there is some design to this, the sources told CNN-News18.

He told the foreign envoys that if Pakistan retaliates, India will also respond. He said nine sites were targeted when asked if Indias objective has been achieved. The Indian mission in the United Nations will also reach out to Security Council members in New York, he added.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Here are the inside details of the foreign secretarys meeting:

Misri told 13 UNSC member countries that the terror attack on April 22 was an escalation for India. The TRFs role was highlighted and how Pakistan used its name for its nefarious motives. The neighbouring country realised after two days and it had to shield the TRF and even denied its involvement

He further said Indias response was measured and non-escalatory, as only terror infrastructure was targeted

Firing from the Pakistani side on civilian infrastructure in Poonch was mentioned. He said there had been a number of casualties on the Indian side of the Line of Control (LoC)

The Russian envoy asked about Indias assessment on Pakistans response. To which, the foreign secretary said India has only targeted terrorist facilities and, if Pakistan responds, it will most likely be on civilian targets. We have not targeted any military installations. These sites belong to Lashkar-e-Taiba," he said. If Pakistan will respond, it will attract a response from us."

On being asked if India has targeted mosques, he said nine sites were targeted. we have credible information that these facilities are those where terrorists were trained. Markaz is a complex and in such a complex, you have a playground, training groups; so particularly, mosques were not targeted so it is wrong to say that we targeted mosques," he added.

About the Author Siddhant Mishra Siddhant Mishra is a Senior Special Correspondent at CNN-News18, covering foreign affairs and international relations. With over 12 years of experience in journalism, he has also reported extensively on crime, ... Read More Siddhant Mishra is a Senior Special Correspondent at CNN-News18, covering foreign affairs and international relations. With over 12 years of experience in journalism, he has also reported extensively on crime, ... Read More

First Published: May 07, 2025, 19:10 IST
Operation Sindoor: Jaish, LeT Hit Across 4 Terror Locations In Pakistan, 5 In PoK | Exclusive

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Pragati Ratti



Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 09:14 IST

India Strikes Terror Bases in Pakistan, PoK: Operation Sindoor included strikes in Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Sialkot, Barnala and Bahawalpur, targeted on JeM, LeT and HM centres.

Graphic representation of the targets taken by the Indian Armed Forces under Operation Sindoor in Pakistan and PoK. (Image: ANI)

India Strikes Terror Locations In Pakistan: With Operation Sindoor, India precisely targeted infrastructure in Pakistan that was being used by terror outfits like Laskar-e-Toiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed for training terrorists and as hideouts. Sources said the strikes were carefully calibrated, with precision targeting and were monitored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Also Read | Operation Sindoor LIVE Updates

Recommended Stories

India struck nine terror locations in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). These included strikes in Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Sialkot, Barnala and Bahawalpur. These facilities trained terrorists and were also instrumental in the infiltration of Lashkar, Hizbul and JeM terrorists into India.

Terror Locations Targeted by India in Pakistan

Markaz Subhan Allah, Bahawalpur

Markaz Subhan Allah is the operational headquarter of Jaish-e-Mohammad in Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan. The Markaz serves has been associated with terrorist plannings including the Pulwama attack on February 14, 2019. The perpetrators of the Pulwama attack were trained at this camp. Its approximate distance from India is 90 km, with nearest borders in Punjab and Rajasthan.

According to top intelligence sources, the Markaz has the residences of JeM Chief Maulana Masood Azhar, de-facto Chief of JeM Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar, Maulana Ammar and other family members of Masood Azhar. Masood Azhar has made several addresses from this facility extolling anti  India rhetoric and appealing to youth to join Islamic Jihad.

Markaz Taiba, Muridke

Markaz Taiba was established in the year 2000 and is considered the most important training centre of Lashkar, located in Nangal Sahdan, Muridke in Pakistans Punjab. The facility trains terrorists and also serves as mushrooming ground for radicalisation of students to motivate them to join terror outfits. The Markaz is 2530 km from the Attari-Wagah Border. The close proximity allows for artillery or short-range missiles.

Sources say this Markaz enrolls around 1000 students in different courses annually and is known for churning out terror entities for LeT annually. Osama Bin Laden had financed Rs 10 million for construction of Mosque & Guest House within the Markaz Taiba complex.

All the preparators of 26/11 Mumbai attack, including Ajmal Kasab were imparted Daura-e-Ribbaf (intelligence training) at this facility. David Coleman Headley and Tahawwur Hussain Rana, the prime conspirators of 26/11 Mumbai attacks, had visited Muridke on instructions of Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi.

Sarjal / Tehra Kalan

Tehra Kalan Sarjal facility, located in the Shakargarh Tehsil of Narowal District in Punjab, Pakistan, facilitates infiltration of JeM terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir and smuggling arms into India, being close to the International Border in Samba Sector of Jammu. It serves as the base for the digging of cross-border tunnels for infiltration of terrorists.

With Pakistan ISIs support, the Sarjal facility is being operated from the premises of a Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Tehra Kalan Village of Sarjal area.

It also serves as the launching base for drones by which arms/ammunition/narcotics and warlike stores are dropped into Indian territory. JeM terrorists including Mohammad Adnan Ali regularly visit this facility and JeM de-facto chief Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar supervises overall operations of this facility.

Mehmoona Joya Facility, Sialkot

This facility is another example of Pak ISI establishing terror facilities in government buildings. The Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) base is located in the premises of Bhutta Koth Govt Basic Health Unit in Sialkot District of Punjab, Pakistan. This facility is used for infiltration of HM cadres into the Jammu region of J&K. These cadres are also trained for terrorist operations at this facility. Irfan Tanda is the commander of this HM facility. He has been involved in carrying out several attacks in Jammu region, especially in capital city of Jammu. t operations in India.

The facility is 1520 km from the Jammu border, near the LoC and could be targeted with cross-border raids or artillery.

Markaz Ahle Hadith Barnala, Bhimber

Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala, situated on the outskirts of Barnala town along Kote Jamel road, serves as a key centre for LeT in PoK. This facility is instrumental in the infiltration of LeT terrorists and the smuggling of arms and ammunition into the Poonch-Rajouri-Reasi sector. It functions as a staging area for LeT terrorists before they cross into Indian territory and can house 100-150 cadres.

Notable LeT operatives like Qasim Gujjar alias Mahrore, Qasim Khanda, and Anas Jarar operate from this Markaz and live nearby. Operational commanders from LeT frequently visit this Markaz to organise and oversee activities related to LeT, Jamaat-ud-Dawa, and the Jammu & Kashmir United Movement.

Markaz Abbas, Kotli

Markaz Saidna Hazrat Abbas Bin Abdul Mutalib, commonly known as Markaz Abbas, is a significant terror facility of JeM located in Kotli. Hafiz Abdul Shakoor alias Qari Zarrar, a shura member of the JeM Council and a close associate of JeMs top commander Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar, heads this Markaz.

Qari Zarrar plays a direct role in planning and executing terrorist attacks in J&K and is wanted by Indias National Investigation Agency (NIA).

Markaz Abbas can accommodate around 100-125 JeM cadres, and it is from this centre that JeMs terror activities, including the infiltration of cadres from the Poonch-Rajouri sectors, are planned and executed.

Markaz Abbas, Kotli is 10-15 km from the LoC and within the range of Indian artillery or short-range missiles.

Maskar Raheel Shahid, Kotli

Located in Kotli District, PoJK, Maskar Raheel Shahid is one of the oldest facilities of HM. It can host around 150-200 HM terrorists, who frequent this facility for arms firing training and specialized physical training. Besides conventional arms and physical training, this camp specializes in preparing cadres for BAT/sniping actions, combat in hilly areas, and survival training.

Shawai Nallah Camp, Muzaffarabad

Shawai Nallah Camp, also known as Bait-ul-Mujahideen, is located near Chelabandi bridge on Muzaffarabad-Neelum Road in Muzaffarabad, PoJK. This camp is crucial for LeT, having trained the attackers involved in the 26/11 Mumbai Attack, including Ajmal Kasab. Active since the early 2000s, it is used for recruiting, registering, and training LeT cadres.

The camp conducts Daura-e-Aam training, which encompasses religious indoctrination, physical training, tactical training on GPS usage, map reading, and arms training for rifles and grenades. Occasionally, specialized weapons training for LeT cadres is organized here, facilitated by Pak-ISi, with trainers from the Pak Army providing instruction.

This large camp can accommodate 200-250 LeT cadres at once and serves as a staging area for LeT terrorists before they infiltrate into Indian territory. LeT terrorists stationed here are dispatched to launch facilities situated opposite North Kashmir.

The camp is 4050 km from the LoC, and medium-range missiles or airstrikes could be used to target it.

Markaz Syedna Bilal

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Markaz Syedna Bilal is JeMs primary centre in PoK, located opposite Red Fort, Muzaffarabad. This facility acts as a transit camp for JeM terrorists before they are launched into J&K. It can house 50-100 cadres at a time. The center is managed by Mufti Asghar Khan Kashmiri, who is JeMs operational commander and head of PoJK.

Other notable figures, including Abdullah Jehadi alias Abdullah Kashmiri and Aashiq Nengroo, an Indian fugitive, also operate from this center. Additionally, commandos from the Special Service Group (SSG) of the Pak Army provide training to JeM cadres at this facility. It is 40-50 km from the LoC.

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: May 07, 2025, 09:01 IST
15 Civilians Killed, At Least 54 Injured In Heavy LoC Shelling By Pakistan, BSF Put On Alert

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 23:25 IST

India launched Operation Sindoor in Pakistan and PoK in retaliation of the Pahalgam terror attack and destroyed terror camps.

Pakistani residents watch as India strikes a terrorist stronghold in Bahawalpur under Operation Sindoor. (IMAGE: SOURCED)

At least 15 people, including four children and a soldier, were killed and 57 others were injured after Pakistan Army carried out one of the most intense artillery and mortar shelling in years targeting forward villages along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir after India conducted counter-terrorism operation Operation Sindoor to avenge the killing of 26 civilians in April 22 Pahalgam attack in the hands of Pakistan-backed terrorists.

The official account of 16 Corps, Indian Army, the White Knight Corps, said Lance Naik Dinesh Kumar of 5 Fd Regt was the soldier who died in Pakistan Army shelling.

Recommended Stories

#GOC and all ranks of #WhiteKnightCorps salute the supreme sacrifice of L/Nk Dinesh Kumar of 5 Fd Regt, who laid down his life on 07 May 25 during Pakistan Army shelling.We also stand in solidarity with all victims of the targeted attacks on innocent civilians in #Poonch Sector. White Knight Corps (@Whiteknight_IA) May 7, 2025

The Pakistan army resorted to heavy mortar shelling on the forward villages along the LoC in Poonch and Rajouri.

Two CRPF jawans sustained injuries in the shelling. Both are in stable condition, the officials said.

Hundreds of residents were forced to take shelter in underground bunkers or relocate to safer areas after Pakistans indiscriminate shelling destroyed homes, vehicles and several buildings, including a gurdwara, triggering panic in the worst-affected areas of Poonch and Rajouri in Jammu region, as well as Baramulla and Kupwara in north Kashmir.

Officials said the Indian Army responded firmly to the shelling, inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy and destroying multiple posts involved in the cross-border firing.

Poonch district accounted for all 13 deaths, the officials said, adding 42 people were also injured and the condition of two of them was stated to be serious.

The shelling was reported from all along the LoC in Poonch, including Balakote, Mendhar, Mankote, Krishna Ghati, Gulpur, Kerni and even Poonch district headquarters, resulting in damage to dozens of houses and vehicles, they said.

The shelling from across the border was intense till noon and later continued intermittently, mostly restricting to the Poonch sector for the next few hours. Locals faced a tough time evacuating the victims to hospital due to the heavy shelling, which also hit Poonch bus stand, damaging several buses, the officials said.

Three Sikh men lost their lives when an artillery shell hit a Gurdwara and adjoining houses in Poonch town, they said. Several parties from Punjab condemned the incident.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

The officials identified the deceased as Balvinder Kour alias Ruby" (33), Mohd Zain Khan (10), his elder sister Zoya Khan (12), Mohd Akram (40), Amrik Singh (55), Mohd Iqbal (45), Ranjeet Singh (48), Shakeela Bi (40), Amarjeet Singh (47), Maryam Khatoon (7), Vihaan Bhargav (13) and Mohd Rafi (40)

This was the 13th consecutive night of unprovoked firing along the borders in Jammu and Kashmir, amid heightened tensions following the Pahalgam attack.

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 : Jammu and Kashmir, India, India

First Published: May 07, 2025, 06:44 IST
Operation Sindoor: Inside Details Of How India Struck Terror Camps In Pakistan, PoK

Reported By :

CNN-News18 Edited By: Saurabh Verma



Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 06:46 IST

Another top source said Pakistan thought India was preparing for a mock drill on Wednesday, but India struck deep inside Pakistani territory on Tuesday night, catching it napping

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a high-level meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, the tri-services chiefs, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on April 29. (IMAGE: SOURCED)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was personally monitoring Operation Sindoor live throughout the night as India carried out a massive, successful strike on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir in response to the dastardly Pahalgam terrorist attack.

The strike by India came exactly two weeks after the April 22 Pahalgam attack, in which 26 innocent people were killed. Sources said the terror headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammad in Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Muridke were destroyed successfully, making this operation much more impactful than earlier surgical strikes by India. In the Balakot strike in 2019 and strikes in PoK after Uri in 2016, only terror camps were targeted.

Recommended Stories

This strike shows Indias intent to finish Pakistan-sponsored terror for good. Pakistan never acted against these terror factories of globally proscribed organisations like JeM and LeT," top sources said. Special precision munitions were used by India to target the terror camps from Indian soil  with the Army, Air Force, and Navy all part of the operation, which was planned over the last fortnight.

Sources also said that this was a strike on terror" and that Pakistan was spreading misinformation that innocent civilians had been targeted.

Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Muridke, Bahawalpur, Sarjil, Gulpur, and one location near Sialkot are among the nine locations, sources said.

Another top source said Pakistan thought India was preparing for a mock drill on Wednesday, but India struck deep inside Pakistani territory on Tuesday night, catching it napping. Yet again, a Modi-led India had stumped Pakistan with surprise and stealth, leaving it stunned, sources added.

The PM had a busy day on Tuesday, conducting several meetings and also attending a media event on Tuesday evening  but no one had a whiff of what was coming around midnight. Exactly a week ago, the PM had given operational freedom" to all three service chiefs to choose the mode, targets, and timing of Indias response. Sources said that in subsequent individual meetings with the three service chiefs last week, options were laid on the table before the PM.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Operation Sindoor"

There is a deep meaning behind the name of the operation, Sindoor", which was approved by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Sources said that the way terrorists had wiped off the sindoor of multiple Hindu women in Pahalgam by killing their husbands mercilessly and by targeting them for being Hindu, India has taken revenge for them and obtained justice for the Pahalgam victims  women and children. An image was tweeted by the Indian Army depicting Operation Sindoor.

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: May 07, 2025, 05:28 IST
Oppn Hails 'Op Sindoor' In Response To Pahalgam Attack: 'Asked About Religion, Now Suffer Karma'

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 15:27 IST

Operation Sindoor: Leaders across party lines had earlier announced to stay united in support to the government over its actions against the sponsors of terrorism.

Opposition Reaction On Operation Sindoor: This came in response to the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 people.

Several Opposition leaders on Wednesday praised the Army for their precision strikes across the border, hours after the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor and struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

This came in response to the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 people. Leaders across party lines had earlier announced to stay united in support to the government over its actions against the sponsors of terrorism.

Recommended Stories

Congress MP posted on X Jai Hind with an emoji of the Indian flag. So proud of my country today," he wrote.

The national president of the grand old party, Mallikarjun Kharge, said that they are extremely proud" of the Armed Forces. We applaud their resolute resolve and courage," he added.

India has an unflinching National Policy against all forms of terrorism emanating from Pakistan and PoK. We are extremely proud of our Indian Armed Forces who have stuck terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. We applaud their resolute resolve and courage. Since the day of the  Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) May 7, 2025

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi said, They asked about religion. Now suffer your karma. Indian Army."

Aditya Thackeray also praised the action, saying, Terrorism in all its forms has to be eliminated Hit them, hard enough that terrorism doesnt stand a chance ever again. Jai Hind!"

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav said, Hail India! There should be neither terror nor separatism! We are proud of our brave soldiers and the Indian Army."

Tamil Nadu chief minister and DMK chief MK Stalin said, Tamil Nadu stands with the Indian Army against terrorism. With our Army, for our nation. Tamil Nadu stands resolute."

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: May 07, 2025, 07:54 IST
Pakistan Armys Poonch Firing Aimed At Unsettling J&K By Targeting Sikhs: Sources | Exclusive

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Aveek Banerjee



Last Updated: May 08, 2025, 05:36 IST

While India exercised caution to avoid civilian harm, Pakistan indiscriminately shelled civilian areas in J&K, killing 13 civilians, including three Sikh devotees.

Residents stand next to a house damaged by Pakistani artillery shelling in Uri, J&K. (AP)

Operation Sindoor: India launched a series of targeted precision strikes under Operation Sindoor against terror camps and infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), in retaliation for the tragedy that unfolded in J&Ks Pahalgam when terrorists gunned down 26 tourists on April 22.

India categorically said that no civilian or military site was hit in their anti-terror ops, and sites linked to the Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba, as well as the Hizbul Mujahideen group, were carefully selected and targeted.

Recommended Stories

While India exercised caution to avoid civilian harm, Pakistan showed no such restraint, as it violated the ceasefire and indiscriminately targeted civilian areas, killing 13 people in Jammu and Kashmir through artillery shelling. Pakistans armed forces also struck a Sikh religious site.

Follow Live Updates of Operation Sindoor here

Gurdwara Struck By Pakistan, 4 Sikh Devotees Killed

The Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Jammu and Kashmirs Poonch was struck by Pakistani shelling, damaging its doors, windows and religious artefacts while Sikh devotees were praying, top intelligence sources told CNN-News18. Four Sikh devotees were among those killed and more than 50 people were injured, many in critical condition.

Locals described the intensity of the Pakistani attack as worse than the Kargil War in 1999, with shells hitting homes, schools and vehicles. Several mosques in Muslim-majority areas also came under heavy shelling, resulting in the death of a teacher.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann condemned the attack on the gurdwara, saying Amrik Singh, Amarjeet Singh, Ranjit Singh and Ruby Kaur lost their lives in the Pakistan bombardment. He said it was unfortunate that Pakistan targeted innocent civilians in such barbaric acts.

The sources described the Pakistan Armys Poonch massacre as a deliberate attempt to unsettle Kashmir and the Sikh community by targeting their religious sites. It showed Pakistans strategy of using civilian suffering to counter Indias anti-terror operations.

Blatant Disregard Of Human Life

The Sikh community in J&K has long stood in support of Indias security forces. Pakistans recent attack not only targeted this historic alliance but also struck at the religious sanctity of the Sikh faith, while once again resorting to its long-standing strategy of using proxy elements to destabilise Kashmir, according to the intel sources.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

While Indias Operation Sindoor was precise and measured to only target terror camps, Pakistans actions revealed a blatant disregard for human life, the sources said.

Operation Sindoor marked a significant escalation in Indias counter-terror strategy following the Pahalgam attack that claimed the lives of 26 civilians, including a Nepali national. Indian Army sources confirmed that the objective was to dismantle launchpads and camps used by terror groups operating from across the Line of Control (LoC).

About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

Location : Srinagar, India, India

First Published: May 08, 2025, 03:16 IST
Pakistan Shells J&Ks Kupwara Again After Operation Sindoor; Indian Army Responds

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 08, 2025, 03:28 IST

Pakistan targeted civilian areas in the Karnah area, firing shells and mortars after midnight, following India's 'Operation Sindoor' targeting terror camps in PoK.

The Indian Army responded effectively to Pakistan's cross-border shelling. (PTI)

Pakistan has resorted to cross-border shelling in the Karnah area of Jammu and Kashmirs Kupwara district for the second day in a row on Thursday, after India launched Operation Sindoor targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

The Pakistani side targeted civilian areas in the Karnah area, firing shells and mortars after midnight, officials told the news agency PTI. The Indian armed forces retaliated effectively against the unprovoked firing.

Recommended Stories

Most of the civilian population in Karnah moved to safer areas after Pakistani troops resorted to shelling following Indias Operation Sindoor. No reports of casualties have emerged so far.

On Wednesday, Pakistani troops began shelling along the Line of Control (LoC) in Kupwara, less than two hours after India launched air strikes against terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The Indian Army responded to the shelling in equal measure, as per officials.

Indias Operation Sindoor began in the early hours of Wednesday with a swift and synchronised series of missile strikes targeting key terror hubs deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, in response to the dastardly terror attack in J&Ks Pahalgam on April 22.

Within a tightly coordinated 24-minute window, Indian forces neutralised nine high-value terror sites linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and dealt a decisive blow, crippling the operational infrastructure of both groups.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Markaz Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur, the headquarters of JeM, and Markaz Taiba in Muridke, the headquarters of LeT, were among the high profile camps destroyed in the Indian offensive.

On the other hand, Pakistan resorted to indiscriminate shelling across the LoC, resulting in the deaths of at least 12 people, including four children, while 57 others were injured.

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 : Kupwara, India, India

First Published: May 08, 2025, 03:06 IST
Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Backing Army Chief Munir To Ensure His Survival, Sources Say

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Shankhyaneel Sarkar



Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 23:47 IST

The Pakistan Army has long been the power and policy shaper in Pakistani politics.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, along with Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of Pakistan Asim Munir, reviews the parade at the passing out ceremony of 151st Long Course at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul, Abbottabad, Pakistan. (IMAGE: REUTERS)

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharifs rhetoric, as seen in his addresses to the Pakistan parliament and the nations citizens on Wednesday, is less about genuine policy and more about his own survival in Pakistans military-dominated ecosystem, intelligence sources speaking to CNN-News18.

They said that by amplifying the Pakistani army chief General Asim Munirs agenda, Shehbaz Sharif secured short-term stability. The intelligence sources also said that the support to Munir shows Sharif will do everything for survival.

Recommended Stories

The Pakistan Army establishment has historically dominated national security and foreign policy. It has long been the de facto power center shaping policy on India, Afghanistan and counterterrorism," the sources said.

Shehbaz Sharif addressed the Pakistan parliament and the citizens of the nation twice on Wednesday, hours after India carried out Operation Sindoor  a counter terrorism operation to avenge the death of innocent civilians in southern Kashmirs Pahalgam.

The people mentioned above said that civilian leaders often align with the military to avoid confrontation and ensure political survival. By publicly backing General Munir, Shehbaz Sharif projects a unified front during crises. Shehbaz knows this and is being compliant to be in power," sources said.

The Pakistan Prime Minister is supporting the militarys narrative of being the guardian of national security as civilian governments in Pakistan rarely survive without military approval.

His rhetoric signals loyalty to the military establishment in a bid to deter potential coups or destabilisation. Also by focusing on external threats, it also diverts attention from economic crises and governance failures. After Indias Operation Sindoor, Sharifs warnings of retaliation align with the militarys hardline stance," the sources further added.

They also said that Sharif is framing Pakistan as a victim of aggression to gain international sympathy.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

They referred to Shehbaz Sharifs elder brother Nawaz Sharifs removal from Pakistan Prime Minister role because Nawaz attempted to challenge military dominance during 1999 Kargil conflict, which led to his removal.

Publicly supporting General Munir boosts the Army Chiefs authority, especially amid internal challenges like Baloch insurgencies and TTP militancy. The armys role in Khans 2022 removal again proved its kingmaker status. Shehbazs alignment avoids similar fallout," the intelligence sources further added.

About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

First Published: May 07, 2025, 23:47 IST
'Moment Of Pride For All Of Us': PM Modi Briefs Cabinet Colleagues On Operation Sindoor

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Ashesh Mallick



Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 13:18 IST

Operation Sindoor: PM Modi held a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday and briefed his colleagues on the Operation Sindoor in Pakistan and PoK.

Operation Sindoor: PM Modi briefs cabinet on Op Sindoor (Photo: PMO)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday briefed his cabinet colleagues about Indias Pahalgam revenge and retaliatory strikes against terror camps in Pakistan and PoK under Operation Sindoor, calling it a moment of pride for all of us".

Describing the operation as a perfect strike by the armed forces", the Prime Minister informed the ministers about how the strikes were conducted deep inside Pakistan  4 in the Punjab province and 5 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Recommended Stories

What Did PM Modi Say On Operation Sindoor?

Hum sab ke liye garv ka pal hai (this is a moment of pride for all of us)," PM Modi told his ministers at the meeting, according to sources.

The cabinet members lauded PM Modis leadership in leading the nation through the tough phase since the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22.

PM Modi will also visit the Rashtrapati Bhavan today and brief President Droupadi Murmu about the developments, sources said.

As many as 26 people were killed at the Baisaran Valley in Kashmirs Pahalgam, which drew condemnation from across the globe and enraged Indians.

Emotions across the country were high, tensions on the borders were on the rise and demands to hit back at Pakistan were increasingly being made across the country with each passing day.

In a public rally in Bihar days after the attack, the Prime Minister had vowed to avenge the killing of the tourists in cold blood and said that India would pursue the terrorists and their backers to the ends of the earth" and punish them.

Former VP Lauds Armed Forces

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Former Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu lauded the armed forces and the government for Operation Sindoor.

The entire nation is proud of our Armed Forces who conducted Operation Sindoor with precision strikes on terror targets to demonstrate that Bharat has zero tolerance for terrorism. The government has shown its firm resolve to stamping out terrorism with a multi-pronged approach & punishing the planners & perpetrators of such cruel acts of terror such as the horrific killings of innocent civilians in Pahalgam," he posted on X.

First Published: May 07, 2025, 12:40 IST
PM Modi Cancels 3-Nation Trip To Croatia, Norway, Netherlands After Operation Sindoor

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Mallika Soni



Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 13:19 IST

The three-nation visit, which included scheduled stops in Croatia, Norway, and the Netherlands, was being planned for mid-May.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

In the wake of Indias Operation Sindoor- which saw targeted strikes against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pok- Prime Minister Narendra Modi cancelled his significant upcoming tour to Europe. The three-nation visit, which included scheduled stops in Croatia, Norway, and the Netherlands, was being planned for mid-May.

While official reasons for the cancellation have not been explicitly stated, the decision comes at a time of heightened regional tensions following Indias military action. The development suggests a potential recalibration of diplomatic priorities in light of the evolving security landscape as the Prime Ministers focus is likely to remain on domestic and immediate regional matters following the operation in Pakistan.

Recommended Stories

PM Modi Cancels Russia Visit

Earlier, PM Modi also cancelled his visit to Russia, the Kremlin confirmed. PM Modi will not be attending the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow on May 9 when Russia marks the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Unions victory over Nazi Germany. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that India will be represented at a different level. The annual parade- held in Moscows Red Square- commemorates the Soviet Unions victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.

Operation Sindoor

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Operation Sindoor- a series of targeted precision strikes conducted by the Indian Armed Forces against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK)- was a direct response to a brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22 which resulted in the tragic deaths of 26 civilians. India asserted that the targeted locations were being used by terror groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen to plan and execute attacks against India.

The Indian government said that nine specific sites were targeted in Operation Sindoor, emphasizing that the actions were focused, measured, and non-escalatory, with a deliberate avoidance of Pakistani military installations. Pakistan strongly condemned the strikes, calling it an act of war.

First Published: May 07, 2025, 12:03 IST
The Name Operation Sindoor Showed The Strike Was Personal, Says Pahalgam Victim Shubham Dwivedi's Wife

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 07:47 IST

Speaking to CNN-News18, Aishanya said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the armed forces had taken revenge for all the 26 people killed by terrorists in Pahalgam

Aishanya said she was always sure that India would avenge the deaths of innocents. (News18)

For Aishanya Dwivedi, wife of Pahalgam terror victim Shubham Dwivedi, Wednesday morning proved to be a panacea of sorts as Indian missiles struck terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) late on Tuesday night, two weeks after cross-border terrorists killed 26 people in cold blood in Pahalgam.

Speaking to CNN-News18, Aishanya said: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and our armed forces have taken revenge for all the 26 people killed by terrorists in Pahalgam. By naming the strike Operation Sindoor, PM Modi and the forces have touched us at a personal level, as if saying that since many like me lost their sindoor [vermillion worn by married women], the fight is now personal. They took all deaths personally and attacked Pakistan."

Recommended Stories

She added that she was always sure that India would avenge the deaths of innocents. We were getting a little impatient but PM Modi has shown that India has taken revenge for every single person killed in Pahalgam on April 22. I am really thankful to him and the armed forces."

Shubham, a 31-year-old businessman from Kanpur, married Aishanya on February 12 this year. He was the first among the 26 people, mostly tourists, who were killed in the April 22 attack at Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Aishanya became a symbol of the nations grief as she bid her husband adieu while wrapped in his shirt. Then, standing beside his pyre, Aishanya had shared her story with reporters and state officials. We had just stepped out to eat some Maggi," she recalled. Then a man approached us from behind with a gun. He asked Shubham, Are you Hindu or Muslim?," she said.

The gunmen then said, If youre Muslim, recite the Kalma. And then, without warning, he shot Shubham in the head. Right in front of me." She added, He didnt stop there. He asked me too. When I said I was Hindu, he didnt shoot me. He said, You go and tell Modi what happened here. How we killed your people."

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: May 07, 2025, 07:43 IST
Travelling By Train Today? Expect Blackouts And More As Part Of India-Wide Mock Drills

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 15:16 IST

As per the Railway Manual, the drill will include a blackout with unnecessary lights off and windows covered, aimed at boosting emergency preparedness of railway staff

This mock drill aims to test emergency preparedness and inter-departmental coordination by simulating an attack scenario. (AI Generated)

Mock drills for emergency preparedness are being held across India on Wednesday, hours after the armed forces launched missile strikes at terror targets in Pakistan to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack. Increased security measures are being observed at railway stations across the country as part of the planned mock drill.

Under orders from the Home Ministry, a comprehensive civil defence mock drill is being conducted as part of the Civil Defence Program to prepare for potential wartime scenarios. The exercise includes several railway stations, such as Kachiguda (Hyderabad Division), Raichur (Guntakal Division), and Aurangabad (Nanded Division), among others. However, specific details about mock drills at stations in and around the capital, Delhi, remain unclear.

Recommended Stories

This mock drill aims to test emergency preparedness and inter-departmental coordination by simulating an attack scenario. Activities will include air raid warnings, blackout practices, safe evacuation drills, and evaluations of civil defence services, including fire extinguishing, Basic Life Support (BLS), and rescue operations.

As per the Railway Manual, a blackout will be implemented during the drill. Unnecessary lights will be switched off and windows covered. The primary objective of this exercise is to strengthen the emergency preparedness of railway personnel and ensure an effective response during crisis situations.

The exercise aims to activate air-raid sirens, train people in evacuation procedures, and clean bunkers and trenches, among other preparations for a potential hostile attack."

This emergency readiness exercise, possibly the first since 1971, is scheduled for 4 pm across most states. According to sources, around 600,000 volunteers are expected to participate, though the final count could be higher, PTI reported.

Following a directive from the Union Home Ministry on Monday, states and Union territories are set to conduct mock drills in response to new and complex threats" amid rising tensions with Pakistan.

According to sources, these drills will involve students from educational institutions, employees of both government and private organisations, hospital staff, railway and metro officials, as well as uniformed personnel from the police, paramilitary, and defence forces.

Vulnerable locations include major metropolitan cities such as Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, and Kolkata, along with cities housing critical installations like nuclear facilities or those situated along the border.

The civil defence authorities will assess the capabilities of these areas and address any deficiencies," a source mentioned.

This site identification exercise will continue for the next three days.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

In response to the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian armed forces conducted missile strikes early Wednesday on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. These targets included the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold in Bahawalpur and the Lashkar-e-Taiba base in Muridke.

Following the Pahalgam attack, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, the prime minister had granted the armed forces complete operational freedom to determine the targets, methods, and timing of their actions against terrorism.

First Published: May 07, 2025, 15:16 IST
What Is Sindoor? Its Significance For Hindus And References In Popular Culture

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Sumedha Kirti



Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 10:43 IST

'Sindoor' holds immense significance in Hinduism  much before the Bollywood movie 'Om Shanti Om' popularised with its 'ek chutki sindoor ki keemat...' dialogue.

'Sindoor' is not just red, it's also orange in many traditions. The orange 'sindoor' is mostly applied in the Purvanchal region.

Aishanya Dwivedi, the widow of Shubham Dwivedi, saw her husbands photo and began crying on hearing that India has named the strikes against Pakistan Operation Sindoor. The Indian government has connected with us on a personal level", she said. Sindoor, the Hindi word for vermillion that married Hindu women apply to their foreheads, holds age-old significance in Hinduism  much before the Bollywood movie Om Shanti Om popularised with its ek chutki sindoor ki keemat dialogue.

Indeed, the sindoor has immense keemat (value) in Hindu culture. Many women in India grow up with a dream to see themselves apply this vermillion on their forehead and wear the traditional red bangles. As elders say, These symbols of marriage light up a womanthe radiance of love becomes visible."

Recommended Stories

When the ruthless attack occurred in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam, Indians couldnt control their tears, especially after the picture of a woman with wrists adorned with chooda and sitting beside motionless her went viral. Her symbols of marriage were enough to let Indians know she was newly-married.

The 26-year-old woman lost her husband even before she could begin her new life. The haunting image peaked the anger of every Indian. Yes, sindoor is that powerful for the citizens in the subcontinent.

What Is Sindoor & Its Significance

This red dye has been used by Indian women for centuries and holds historic, spiritual, and medicinal significance. Traditionally worn by Indian women to signify their married status, sindoor is first applied by a womans husband during the pheras (ritual related to marriage) on their wedding day.

Some may not know but sindoor is not just red, its also orange in many traditions. The orange sindoor is mostly applied in the Purvanchal region, consisting of regions in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. In fact, in some areas in Bihar, women even don pink sindoor.

Sindoor, in general, is seen as a symbol of good luck, fertility, and prosperity for the couple. It also represents the deep love, commitment, and devotion a wife has towards her husband.

The History Of Sindoor

The exact origins of the tradition are unknown, but female figurines with red painted partings dating back 5000 years have been discovered in northern India.

Sindoor is also mentioned in Hindu epics. In the Ramayana, theologians date to the 7th century BCE, Goddess Sita applies sindoor for her husband, Lord Rama. Similar to the bindi, sindoors significance lies in its placement near the Third Eye chakra, or Ajna chakra, at the center of the head.

The Ajna chakras closeness to the brain links it to concentration, desire, and emotional regulation. Believers in the power of chakras think placing sindoor here focuses a womans mental energy on her husband.

Does Sindoor Have Medicinal Purpose?

Sindoor has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes as well. In Ayurvedic medicine, which has historical roots in Hinduism, red sindoor powder is believed to have health benefits for women, including increasing blood flow to enhance their sexual drive  hence, unmarried women and widows are not permitted to wear it.

No Tax On Sindoor

Considering the importance of sindoor, the government in 2017 exempted it from taxes. This means that no GST is levied on the sale or purchase of the vermillion. The Economic Times noted that sindoor, along with bindis and bangles, are classified as essential" items and are therefore tax-free.

Sindoor In Movies

One of the earliest recognitions of sindoors significance is in Kishore Sahus 1947 film of the same name, which addresses the theme of widow remarriage. Traditionally, widows were often seen as a burden, and the logic suggested that a truly devoted widow would not reapply sindoor for a new husband. However, the film ends with the widows desire to remarry being accepted by the other characters.

As she reapplies her vermillion, symbolizing her renewed marital status, she challenges the outdated beliefs associated with sindoor application. Almost 30 years after the films release, The Illustrated Weekly of India praised this ending, highlighting Sahus status as a socially conscious filmmaker."

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

In recent times, the conversation about sindoor has evolved into 21st-century cyberculture, particularly within Bollywood. In a scene from the 2007 classic Om Shanti Om, heroine Shantipriya (Deepika Padukones breakout role) praises the red dye in her dialogue Ek Chutki Sindoor" (That One Pinch of Sindoor): A married womans crowning glory, everything a woman has always dreamt of."

Desi Twitter has since humorously engaged with the conservative lyrics, transforming the scene into an iconic meme format.

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: May 07, 2025, 10:25 IST
Why India Targeted Muridke Markaz, Lashkar Bastion Where 26/11 Terrorist Ajmal Kasab Was Trained

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 10:31 IST

Established in 2000, Muridke Markaz is known to train terrorists and also serves as a mushrooming ground for radicalisation of students to motivate them to join terror outfits

The Markaz, which is 25-30 km from the Attari-Wagah Border, enrols around 1,000 students in different courses annually and is known for churning out terror entities for LeT annually. (AFP)

Indian armed forces, in a pre-dawn operation on Wednesday, struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 peoplemostly touristswere killed in cold blood by cross-border terrorists.

India, with Operation Sindoor, precisely targeted infrastructure in Pakistan being used by terror outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed for training terrorists and as hideouts. Indian armed forces successfully struck nine terror targetsfour in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir in a coordinated operation being personally monitored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Recommended Stories

In an official statement, the Ministry of Defence said: Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution."

One of the most high-profile targets was a key mosque complex in Muridke, a town near Lahore in Pakistans Punjab province, which is widely regarded as the nerve centre of Lashkar-e-Taiba.

WHY MURIDKE?

Established in 2000, Muridke Markaz is known to train terrorists and also serves as a mushrooming ground for radicalisation of students to motivate them to join terror outfits. The site houses the groups preaching centre, educational institutions, a madrasa, residential quarters, and facilities for religious indoctrination, arms training, and recruitment. The Markaz, which is 25-30 km from the Attari-Wagah Border, enrols around 1,000 students in different courses annually and is known for churning out terror entities for LeT annually, intel sources added. Osama Bin Laden had financed Rs 10 million for construction of a mosque and guesthouse within the Markaz Taiba complex.

Also, the preparators of the 26/11 Mumbai attackincluding Ajmal Kasabwere imparted Daura-e-Ribbaf (intelligence training) at this facility. David Coleman Headley and Tahawwur Hussain Rana, the prime conspirators of 26/11 Mumbai attacks, had visited Muridke on instructions of Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi.

Given its locationsituated on a major highway and just a few kilometres from Lahorethe Markaz can deploy its assets quickly at a short notice, making it crucial to eliminate the hotbed.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Originally set up to support the Afghan jihad against the Soviets in the 1980s, the Markaz became a base for anti-India operations after the Soviets retreated. Owing to international pressure, when LeT was banned by Pakistan after the 9/11 attacks, Markaz was re-designated as a seminarythe Jamaat-ud-Dawa India Today reports.

The LeT was established by Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, Zafar Iqbal, and Abdullah Azzam in response to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Its parent organization, Markaz-ud-Dawa-wal-Irshad (MDI), was founded in 1987 as a Sunni missionary group with the goal of promoting Salafism, the strictest interpretation of Islam.

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 : Islamabad, Pakistan

First Published: May 07, 2025, 10:20 IST
Why India's Pahalgam Retaliation Was Named 'Operation Sindoor'; PM Modi Approved It

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 08:58 IST

Sindoor, which traditionally signifies the marital status of Hindu women, serves as a poignant reference to the April 22 Pahalgam massacre

The woman, a survivor of the Pahalgam terror attack, is seen sitting beside her husband, who was fatally shot during the assault | File Image/X

The codename Operation Sindoor, under which India responded to the dastardly Pahalgam terror attack by striking nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK), carried a message that was both emotionally resonant and symbolically heroic.

The Indian Armed Forces struck selective terror bases in Pakistan and PoK, reportedly from where terrorist attacks against India were orchestrated, under Operation Sindoor.

Recommended Stories

Sindoor, or vermillion, traditionally signifies the marital status of Hindu women and serves as a poignant reference to the April 22 Pahalgam massacre, where terrorists targeted and killed mensome newly marriedbased on their religion.

It also holds symbolic pride, as a sindoor tilak is worn by warriors heading into battle.

A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched OPERATION SINDOOR, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. Altogether, nine sites have been targeted," a statement issued by the Indian Army said.

Sources told CNN-News18 that the codename Operation Sindoor was approved by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to symbolically reflect Indias response to the Pahalgam attack.

Operation Sindoor: A Symbolic Name

Two weeks ago, on April 22, an image of a Hindu woman sitting in silent shock beside her husbands lifeless body spread widely across social media, becoming a powerful symbol of the devastating militant attack in Jammu and Kashmir that claimed 26 civilian lives.

The woman, Himanshi Narwal, had been married for less than a week to 26-year-old naval officer Vinay Narwal. The couple was on their honeymoon when Vinay was tragically shot dead based on his religion, turning their celebration into an unimaginable tragedy.

Himanshis emotional scene, including a viral video of her saying goodbye to her husbands coffin, became widely known in the aftermath of the attack.

The power of the name Operation Sindoor lies in its ability to humanise the victims and survivors of the Pahalgam massacre, ensuring their sacrifices arent reduced to only statistics.

While Pakistan and their sponsored terror groups have a long past of harming Indian civilians, the Indian forces have exercised all sensibilities to limit its retaliatory strikes to terror camps.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the Indian Armed Forces struck nine sites in Pakistan and PoK, all reportedly being categorised as terror bases affiliated to Pakistan-based terror groups Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

India categorically highlighted that it was a calibrated, non-provocative counterstrike in which the targets were carefully chosen.

Importantly, no Pakistani military facilities were hit, reflecting Indias calibrated and non-escalatory approach," a statement by the defence ministry said.

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 : Jammu and Kashmir, India, India

First Published: May 07, 2025, 06:09 IST
Samantha Ruth Prabhu's Ivory Kurta Set Is the Summer Festive Staple You Need

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 13:06 IST

Samantha Ruth Prabhus ivory kurta set is the perfect blend of elegance and ease for summer festivities

Samantha Ruth Prabhu nails summer festive style in a dreamy ivory kurta set.

When it comes to effortless festive fashion, Samantha Ruth Prabhu always knows how to strike the perfect balance between elegance and ease. On May 6, the actor turned heads in a dreamy ivory kurta set thats ideal for pre-wedding functions and summer festivitiesespecially if youre steering clear of heavy lehengas.

A Closer Look at Samanthas Ethnic Ensemble

Recommended Stories

The star wore a House of Masaba creation that beautifully blends classic craftsmanship with modern grace. Her outfit featured a straight-cut V-neck kurta with flared sleeves, adorned with delicate crochet border patchwork that added just the right amount of flair. She paired it with straight pants detailed with matching crochet on the side seams, and completed the look with a sheer organza dupatta trimmed with crochet work and playful tassels.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bollywood Celebrity Style (@bollywoodwomencloset)

What made the look stand out was her choice of jewellerya refined South Sea pearl necklace by Moi. The piece was elevated with a diamond-studded clasp and a striking emerald centerpiece, flanked by soft pearls on either side.

How Much Does Samanthas Look Cost?

Samanthas elegant House of Masaba ensemble is priced at 32,000 and is available on the brands official website. Her pearl necklace from Moi is a true luxury pick, retailing for 1,94,361.

How to Recreate the Look

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Ivory suits are a timeless addition to any ethnic wardrobeversatile, graceful, and ideal for when you want to look dressed up without going overboard. To channel Samanthas vibe, look for a white or ivory kurta with textured detailing like lace or embroidery. Keep your accessories minimala statement necklace or delicate earrings can elevate the look without overshadowing it. Want a pop of colour? Throw in a vibrant dupatta or scarf to make the outfit your own.

Samanthas look is proof that festive dressing doesnt have to mean flashy. Sometimes, all you need is an elegant white suit and a touch of thoughtful accessorizing.

About the Author Swati Chaturvedi Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl... Read More Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl... 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: May 07, 2025, 13:06 IST
5 Reasons to Visit Chiang Mai from India

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 07:40 IST

From history and culture to adventure and relaxation, Chiang Mai has something for every traveller

Nestled in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a city where history, nature, and culture blend seamlessly

Looking for your next adventure? Nestled in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a city where history, nature, and culture blend seamlessly. Whether you are drawn to ancient temples, flavourful northern Thai cuisine, or thrilling outdoor adventures, this charming destination has something for everyone.

Getting to Chiang Mai is now easier than ever with Malaysia Airlines, offering seamless one-stop connections via Kuala Lumpur from multiple cities across India. Plus, with the Bonus Side Trip offer, you can explore Malaysia at no extra airfare before continuing to your final destination.

Recommended Stories

Heres why Chiang Mai deserves a spot on your travel list:

1. A City Full of History and Culture

Once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Mai is home to stunning temples, centuries-old city walls, and charming alleyways filled with tradition. Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched on a hilltop, for breathtaking views of the city, or take a leisurely stroll through the Old City, where bustling markets, cafes, and ancient temples await.

Flying via Kuala Lumpur? Add a cultural stop in Malaysia before continuing to Chiang Mai  Explore heritage sites like Melakas Dutch Square and Kuala Lumpurs Batu Caves.

2. A Food Lovers Paradise

Chiang Mais culinary scene is a feast for the senses. The citys signature dish, Khao Soi, a rich and creamy coconut curry noodle soup, is a must-try. Wander through street markets like the Sunday Night Market, where you can savour local delights such as Sai Oua (spicy northern Thai sausage) and crispy kanom jeen (fermented rice noodles).

For foodies flying with Malaysia Airlines, the gourmet experience begins even before you arrive. Indulge in their Best of Asia menu, featuring a curated selection of regional dishes, or enjoy a personalised dining experience with the Chef-on-Call service available for Business Class passengers. Its a perfect way to start your gastronomic adventure!

3. A Nature Lovers Escape

Surrounded by breathtaking mountains and lush countryside, Chiang Mai is a paradise for nature lovers. Hike through Doi Inthanon National Park, explore hidden waterfalls, or visit an ethical elephant sanctuary. If youre feeling adventurous, go bamboo rafting along the Mae Taeng River or zipline through the jungle for an adrenaline rush.

Fancy a tropical detour? Stop by Langkawi, where you can unwind on sun-kissed beaches, explore lush rainforests, and soak in the tranquil island vibes of this hidden gem in Malaysia before heading to Chiang Mai.

4. A Place to Unwind

Chiang Mais relaxed pace makes it the perfect place to rejuvenate. From traditional Thai massages to yoga retreats and hot springs, there are countless ways to unwind. A visit to San Kamphaeng Hot Springs is a must  its naturally heated mineral baths are believed to have therapeutic benefits.

5. A Shoppers Delight

Chiang Mai is a haven for shoppers, with its bustling night markets filled with handmade goods, silver jewellery, and traditional textiles. For a more modern shopping experience, visit Maya Lifestyle Shopping Center, which offers a mix of local and international brands.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Ready to Explore Chiang Mai?

From history and culture to adventure and relaxation, Chiang Mai has something for every traveller. And with Malaysia Airlines, getting there is just as enjoyable as the journey itself. Book yourself a flight today and enjoy seamless connections, exceptional services, and exclusive travel perks!

About the Author Swati Chaturvedi Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl... Read More Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl... 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: May 07, 2025, 07:40 IST
Alia Bhatt Backs Operation Sindoor, Says I Salute Our Armed Forces Today And Every Day

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 08, 2025, 00:13 IST

Alia Bhatts post came as a powerful moment of solidarity from the Bollywood fraternity, with several other celebrities also standing by the Indian Armed Force's action.

Alia Bhatt backs Operation Sindoor, says she salutes the armed forces.

Alia Bhatt has lent her voice to the growing wave of support for the Indian Armed Forces following Operation Sindoor, a measured" and non-escalatory" retaliatory strike carried out by India in response to the deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam.

The actress, known for using her social media for important causes, shared a heartfelt message via Instagram Stories that read, I salute our armed forces today and every day. Jai Hind."

Recommended Stories

Alias post came as a powerful moment of solidarity from the Bollywood fraternity, with several other celebrities also standing by the Indian Armed Forces action. The counter-strike, executed by the Indian Army and Indian Air Force, targeted terror camps across Pakistan and PoK following the barbaric April 22 attack that killed 26 Indian tourists.

Actor Ayushmann Khurrana also made a clear statement on his Instagram, writing, Terrorism has no place in this world," alongside the Indian flag emoji. He additionally posted a bold image with Operation Sindoor" written across it.

Ranveer Singh joined in by simply sharing a picture of the Indian Tricolour on his Instagram Story, accompanied by the hashtag #OperationSindoor.

Veteran actor and politician Kamal Haasan released a firm statement as well: A proud India stands united with its armed forces. This is the resolute response of a strong nation that will not be divided by cowardly acts of terror. I applaud the decisive and strategic military action taken by the Government of India. Jai Hind."

Ajay Devgn praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for leading the nation in such critical times. In his post, he wrote, Saluting our Honourable Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi and our Indian forces. India stands tall and strong. Jai Hind!"

As the country continues to process the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, Bollywoods unified front is being viewed as a significant gesture of national solidarity.

About the Author Shrishti Negi Shrishti Negi is a journalist with over eight years of experience in the media industry. She leads the Entertainment desk at News18.com. She writes breaking news stories, generates feature ideas, edits copies, ... Read More Shrishti Negi is a journalist with over eight years of experience in the media industry. She leads the Entertainment desk at News18.com. She writes breaking news stories, generates feature ideas, edits copies, ... Read More

First Published: May 08, 2025, 00:11 IST
Allu Arjun Hails Indian Army For Operation Sindoor, Says 'May Justice Be Served

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 12:40 IST

Rajinikanth, Akshay Kumar, Kangana Ranaut, Rajkummar Rao, Samantha Ruth Prabhu and other celebrities have also praised Operation Sindoor

Allu Arjun Hails Indian Army For Operation Sindoor

India attack on Pakistan: The Indian Armed Forces on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. These locations were believed to be used for planning and directing attacks on India. Many celebrities, including Allu Arjun, have showered praises.

Taking to his Instagram stories, Allu Arjun shared a post reading Operation sindoor, may justice be served, jai hind." Megastar Rajinikanth took to X (formerly Twitter) to show his support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi following the success of the recent government-led operation. Expressing his support following the launch of Operation Sindoor, Rajinikanth wrote in his post, The fighters fight begins No stopping until the mission is accomplished! The entire NATION is with you."

Recommended Stories

Take a look here:

As per initial intelligence reports, the operation led to the death of at least 17 terrorists and left around 60 others injured. As news of Operation Sindoor broke, a wave of support poured in from Bollywood, with stars like Akshay Kumar, Kangana Ranaut, Suniel Shetty, Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Rajkummar Rao.

Rajkummar Rao expressed deep sorrow and anger over the Pahalgam terror attack. He shared that, if given a chance, he would like to visit Kashmir to stand in solidarity with the people and better understand the situation on the ground.

So much hard work has been put into making Kashmir feel safe and a lot of tourism had started again. I know many people who went there and told us that it is so beautiful and safe. Given a chance, I would love to visit. Right now, we are caught up with things but as I get an opportunity will surely go," the actor said.

What is Operation Sindoor?

The strikes targeted key terror infrastructure across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Pakistan, with precision hits reported in areas including Kotli, Ahmadpur Sharqia, Muzaffarabad, Muridke, and Faisalabad. Describing the operation, the army emphasised that the strikes were carefully calibrated to avoid escalation and did not target any Pakistani military facilities. The Ministry of Defence issued a statement in the wee hours. The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. Altogether, nine sites have been targeted. Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution."

About the Author Akriti Anand Akriti Anand is Chief Sub Editor of the entertainment team at News18. A news writer with over a decade of experience, Akriti loves to keep a close watch on Bollywood celebrities and their social media. A post-g... Read More Akriti Anand is Chief Sub Editor of the entertainment team at News18. A news writer with over a decade of experience, Akriti loves to keep a close watch on Bollywood celebrities and their social media. A post-g... Read More

First Published: May 07, 2025, 12:40 IST
Ayushmann, Kamal Haasan Back Indian Army's Operation Sindoor: 'Terrorism Has No Place'

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 21:19 IST

Film stars unite in support of Indian Armed Forces post Operation Sindoor, calling it a firm and strategic response to terror.

Film stars back Operation Sindoor, salute Indian Army's firm response to terror.

The Indian film industry has rallied behind the Indian Armed Forces in the wake of Operation Sindoor, a strategic military move launched in response to the recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam. Several Bollywood stars took to social media to express their solidarity, applauding the Armys action as firm yet non-escalatory.

Actor Ayushmann Khurrana posted on Instagram, Terrorism has no place in this world," alongside an Indian flag emoji. He also shared an image boldly featuring the words Operation Sindoor," visibly supporting the Indian Armys measured retaliation.

Recommended Stories

Veteran actor and politician Kamal Haasan echoed similar sentiments in a statement shared online. A proud India stands united with its armed forces. This is the resolute response of a strong nation that will not be divided by cowardly acts of terror. I applaud the decisive and strategic military action taken by the Government of India. Jai Hind," he wrote, firmly aligning himself with the national sentiment.

Actor Dhanush also shared a note of pride on X, formerly Twitter. Our country stands united against terrorProud of our armed forcesJai Hind," he wrote, further amplifying the voices of solidarity across the film industry.

Our country stands united against terrorProud of our armed forces  Jai hind  #OperationSindoor  Dhanush (@dhanushkraja) May 7, 2025

Actor Ajay Devgn saluted Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his leadership during this time. Saluting our Honourable Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi and our Indian forces. India stands tall and strong. Jai Hind!" he posted.

Suniel Shetty maintained a strong tone in his message, emphasising the need for firm action: Terror has no place. Zero Tolerance. Total Justice #OperationSindoor," he stated, adding to the chorus calling for a strong national stance against terrorism.

Vivek Oberoi said, Terror shall not prevail, Indias spirit and power shall keep rising to reclaim the light and ensure such darkness never again stains our sacred soil. The world must stand united against the evil of terror. Lets not fall prey to propaganda that tries to divide us, this is not a war against any religion or nation, its a war against terror," he shared.

About the Author Shrishti Negi Shrishti Negi is a journalist with over eight years of experience in the media industry. She leads the Entertainment desk at News18.com. She writes breaking news stories, generates feature ideas, edits copies, ... Read More Shrishti Negi is a journalist with over eight years of experience in the media industry. She leads the Entertainment desk at News18.com. She writes breaking news stories, generates feature ideas, edits copies, ... Read More

First Published: May 07, 2025, 21:19 IST
Fawad Khan Reacts To India's Strike On Terror Camps In PoK

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 14:38 IST

India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025, targeting terror strongholds in Pakistan. Actor Fawad Khan has now condemned it.

Pak actor Fawad Khan has slammed Operation Sindoor.

Pakistani actor Fawad Khan has reacted to Indias strike on terror camps in PoK. On Wednesday, the actor took to his X handle and sparked a wave of online backlash after he condemned Indias Operation Sindoor, calling it a shameful attack".

My deepest condolences to the families of those injured and killed in this shameful attack. I pray for the souls of the deceased and strength for their loved ones in the days to come," he wrote and then added, A respectful request to all: stop stoking the flames with rabble-rousing words. It is not worth the lives of innocent people. May better sense prevail. InshaAllah. Pakistan Zindabad!"

Recommended Stories

While his Instagram handle has reportedly been blocked in India, a screenshot of the now-deleted post is circulating widely online.

Fawad Khan isnt the only one speaking out. In the wake of Operation Sindoor, a number of prominent Pakistani celebrities have also reacted to Indias strike on terrorism. Previously, Hania Aamir, Mahira Khan and Mawra Hocane also took to social media to express their condemnation of what theyre calling an attack on Pakistan."

About Operation Sindoor

In a coordinated counter-terror move, Indian armed forces carried out a high-level operation in the early hours of Wednesday, dismantling multiple terror hubs across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Dubbed Operation Sindoor, the mission was a joint effort by the Army, Navy, and Air Force, and was launched entirely from within Indian territory.

The Ministry of Defence confirmed that nine terror sites were successfully targeted, reiterating that the strikes were carefully calibrated to avoid escalating tensions. Focused, measured, and non-escalatory," was how officials described the operation, noting that no Pakistani military installations were hit. The primary objective was to neutralise the networks responsible for recent attacks on Indian soil.

The Indian Army later confirmed the action with a post from its official handle stating, Justice is served. Jai Hind." Prominent political leaders, including Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Bandi Sanjay Kumar, commended the military response, calling it a fitting tribute to the victims of the Pahalgam attack.

The Ministry of Defence issued a statement in the wee hours. The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. Altogether, nine sites have been targeted. Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution."

Sources revealed that Operation Sindoor, led by the Indian Armed Forces, eliminated at least 17 terrorists and left over 60 injured. The precision airstrikes were said to have hit strategic terror-linked locations in Kotli, Ahmadpur Sharqia, Muzaffarabad, Muridke, and Faisalabad. Defence officials stressed that the mission was carefully executed to avoid provocation and specifically excluded Pakistani military installations.

First Published: May 07, 2025, 13:35 IST
Hania Aamir, Mahira Khan Condemn India's Strike On Terrorist Camps In Pakistan, PoK

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 04:33 IST

The Indian government confirmed the late-night strikes, saying they were measured, precise and non-escalatory, aimed at terror infrastructure.

Pakistani actors Mahira Khan and Hania Aamir react to India's Operation Sindoor.

Pakistani celebrities have reacted sharply to Indias strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under Operation Sindoor, condemning the move as cowardly."

Mahira Khan, one of Pakistans most prominent actors, reposted writer Fatima Bhuttos tweet criticising the strikes and wrote on her Instagram story, Seriously cowardly!!! May Allah protect our country, may better sense prevail. Ameen."

Recommended Stories

Actor Hania Aamir also reacted with a one-word post on her Instagram story, calling the action Cowardly." Aamir has been in headlines recently after Instagram accounts of several Pakistani stars, including hers, were geo-restricted in India following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. Instagram accounts of celebrities like Mahira Khan, Fawad Khan, Ali Zafar and others now display the message: Account not available in India. This is because we complied with a legal request to restrict this content."

Meanwhile, the Indian government confirmed the late-night strikes, saying they were measured, precise and non-escalatory," aimed at terror infrastructure.

Indian Armys official handle had earlier posted, Justice is served. Jai Hind," confirming the action. Several politicians, including Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Bandi Sanjay Kumar, also reacted, praising the armed forces for avenging the Pahalgam victims.

According to sources, the Indian Armed Forces Operation Sindoor has resulted in the deaths of at least 17 terrorists and injuries to 60 others. The strikes targeted key terror infrastructure across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Pakistan, with precision hits reported in areas including Kotli, Ahmadpur Sharqia, Muzaffarabad, Muridke, and Faisalabad. Describing the operation, the army emphasised that the strikes were carefully calibrated to avoid escalation and did not target any Pakistani military facilities.

About the Author Shrishti Negi Shrishti Negi is a journalist with over eight years of experience in the media industry. She leads the Entertainment desk at News18.com. She writes breaking news stories, generates feature ideas, edits copies, ... Read More Shrishti Negi is a journalist with over eight years of experience in the media industry. She leads the Entertainment desk at News18.com. She writes breaking news stories, generates feature ideas, edits copies, ... Read More

First Published: May 07, 2025, 04:30 IST
Maharashtra Govt Announces Biopic On Indore Queen Ahilyabai Holkar | Details Inside

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 09:06 IST

The Maharashtra government, led by CM Devendra Fadnavis, has announced initiatives for Queen Ahilyabai Holkar's 300th birth anniversary, including a film.

A movie has been announced on Ahilyabai Holkar and schemes for Dhangar community.

In a historic move to commemorate the 300th birth anniversary of Queen Ahilyabai Holkar, the Maharashtra government has announced a series of initiatives aimed at celebrating her enduring legacy. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis revealed plans for a biographical film on the revered queen, alongside significant welfare and infrastructure projects.

Devdiscourse

Recommended Stories

The state cabinet convened for the first time in Chondi village, AhilyanagarHolkars birthplaceto deliberate on these initiatives. The proposed film, set to be produced in Marathi and other regional languages, will be broadcast on Doordarshan and various OTT platforms. Film City in Goregaon has been entrusted with executing the project.

Among the key decisions, the cabinet approved a 10.50 crore allocation for the Adishakti Mission, focusing on womens empowerment. Additionally, plans were unveiled for a 430-bed hospital and a medical college in Ahilyanagar district, with a total investment of 458 crore.

To honor the contributions of Indore King Raje Yeshwantrao Holkar, especially in education, the cabinet sanctioned the enrollment of Dhangar community students in reputed residential schools. Between 202122 and 202425, 31,300 students have been enrolled in 162 schools under this initiative, with 288 crore disbursed so far.

Further, the government approved the construction of hostels for meritorious Dhangar students at revenue division headquarters in Navi Mumbai, Pune, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Nashik, Nagpur, and Amravati. Each hostel will accommodate 200 students100 male and 100 female. Construction has already commenced in Nashik, with projects in Pune and Nagpur set to begin shortly.

An Industrial Training Institute exclusively for female students is also planned for Ahilyanagar district. Moreover, Rs 75 crore has been allocated for the restoration and rejuvenation of water bodies originally built by Ahilyabai Holkar, including desilting and conservation efforts for lakes, wells, ghats, and pools across the region.

(With inputs from PTI)

First Published: May 07, 2025, 09:06 IST
Pakistani Designer TROLLED For Calling Shah Rukh Khan, Diljit Dosanjh Our Stars

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 07:56 IST

Pakistani designer Zara Shahjahan faces backlash for praising Shah Rukh Khan and Diljit Dosanjh's Met Gala appearance and calling them 'our stars'.

Pakistani designer faces online backlash after calling Shah Rukh Khan and Diljit Dosanjh "our stars."

Tensions between India and Pakistan are running high following the Indian Armys recent Operation Sindoor, a precision strike reportedly targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The operation was carried out in response to the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. As the diplomatic fallout continues, Pakistani fashion designer Zara Shahjahan found herself in the eye of an online storm after she shared heartfelt Instagram stories applauding Shah Rukh Khan and Diljit Dosanjh for their appearance at the 2025 Met Gala. Her words, though poetic and personal, didnt sit well with many.

She wrote, Last night, two of our stars lit up the Met Gala. Shah Rukh  the dream we grew up with. Diljit  the beat we move to now. And yet, in these moments  when the world opens its doors to the subcontinent, when our artists walk global stages  we are not allowed to clap. Our hands are tied by suspicion, our joy swallowed by our silence," she wrote.

Recommended Stories

In another Instagram story, she added, It is a strange thing, to grow up loving someone who may never be allowed to love you back. To dance to their songs, to weep with their films, and now  to see them step into the worlds spotlight and feel like strangers watching from across the wall."

The posts sparked outrage among Pakistani social media users, who accused her of being tone-deaf in light of the heightened cross-border conflict. An angry user wrote, Self-respect has left the chat." Another commented, Our celebrities? I am unable to digest this! Since when has SRK been ours? Diljit? Cant cope with this sadness bilawajah ki lol!"

A reaction read, So shameless kitna obsession hai bollywood see." Another opined, What exactly is she trying to say?? So confused and totally uncalled post." Is Met Gala that important and how are they our stars? Stop embarrassing your fellow countrymen/women," went a netizen.

The backlash comes at a time when India has also banned several Pakistani YouTube channels and social media handles.

Meanwhile, Shah Rukh Khan made history as the first Indian male actor to walk the Met Gala red carpet. In perfect alignment with the evenings theme, Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, he made a striking entrance in a meticulously crafted black ensemble by Sabyasachi. Ditching the shirt for a daring edge, SRK layered gold chains that brought the right touch of sparkle to his look. Pairing sleek black shades with tousled hair, and accessorizing with a bold brooch, he commanded the red carpet like a true icon. The sharp black suit was elevated with multiple necklaces, adding a dramatic flair, while a statement cane featuring a fierce tiger head completed his show-stopping appearance.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pooja Dadlani Gurnani (@poojadadlani02)

On the other hand, Diljit Dosanjh showed up in a jaw-dropping royal Maharaja-inspired look, complete with a cape that had beautiful Punjabi words embroidered on it. It was a special tribute to Patialas Maharaja Bhupinder Singh. Styled by Nepalese-American designer Prabal Gurung, the outfit paid tribute to his cultural roots in the most stylish way possible.

Diljit Dosanjh wore his culture with pride, with every detail of his outfit thoughtfully chosen. The ivory and gold ensemble featured a sleek silhouette, a cinched waist, a dramatic cape, and a perfect blend of textures. His turban was adorned with fine jewels, and a matching maharaja haar completed the regal look in all its splendor. To top it off, he carried a sword.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by DILJIT DOSANJH (@diljitdosanjh)

Well, what did you think of their looks?

First Published: May 07, 2025, 07:56 IST
Pawan Kalyan Wraps Up The Shoot For Hari Hara Veera Mallu | Trailer Out Soon

Published By :

IANS

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 12:19 IST

Pawan Kalyan has completed shooting for the period action film 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu', directed by Jyothi Krishna and Krish Jagarlamudi.

Hari Hara Veera Mallu shoot is completed.

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Telugu star Pawan Kalyan has now completed shooting for his eagerly awaited period action film Hari Hara Veera Mallu. Directed by Jyothi Krishna and Krish Jagarlamudi, the period action film is scheduled to hit screens on May 9 this year.

The films unit, through an X handle created exclusively for the film, made the announcement.

Recommended Stories

It said, Powerstar @PawanKalyan Garu finishes shooting for #HariHaraVeeraMallu. The shoot wraps with a bang, and whats coming next will set screens on fire! A massive trailer and blockbuster songs are on the way!"

It may be recalled that director A M Jyothikrishna on Monday had tweeted that Pawan Kalyan would be joining the last two days of the films shoot.

Taking to his timeline on X, he said, Powerstar @PawanKalyan Garu joins the last 2 days of the shoot for #HariHaraVeeraMallu. With this, the monumental journey of the shoot comes to a grand close. Get ready for the long-awaited, EXPLOSIVE trailer and ELECTRIFYING songs are coming your way very soon! The countdown to the storm begins now."

A historical adventure with soul-stirring music, Hari Hara Veera Mallu, produced by A. Dayakar Rao under the banner of Mega Surya Production, will be an epic tale of adventure during the Mughal empire under Aurangzeb.

The film portrays Indias complex socio-economic landscape during the period when foreign powers like the Dutch and Portuguese exploited the countrys riches.

It may be recalled that a song titled Maata Vinali / Kekkanum Guruve that the makers released from the film had caught the attention of fans. The song, which appears during a crucial moment in the film, is set against the scenic backdrop of a forest. The Telugu version of the song was penned by Penchal Das while the Tamil version was by lyricist Pa Vijay.

What made the song of particular interest to fans was that Pawan Kalyan himself lent his voice for the Telugu version. For the other languages, advanced AI technology was utilized to enhance and replicate Pawan Kalyans unique vocal tone, creating an authentic experience for fans worldwide.

The music, composed by the iconic M.M. Keeravaani, is poised to join the league of timeless philosophical hits, reminiscent of classic MGR songs.

Apart from Pawan Kalyan, Hari Hara Veera Mallu will also feature Nidhhi Agerwal, Bobby Deol, and Nassar, supported by Raghu Babu, Subbaraju, Sunil, and many others. The film has cinematography by Manoj Paramahamsa and Gnanashekar V.S., and production design by Thota Tharani.

About the Author Shreyanka Mazumdar Shreyanka Mazumdar is Chief Sub Editor of the entertainment team at News18. With an unbridled passion for all things Bollywood, she loves deep-diving into the glitz and glamour of the entertainment world, bring... Read More Shreyanka Mazumdar is Chief Sub Editor of the entertainment team at News18. With an unbridled passion for all things Bollywood, she loves deep-diving into the glitz and glamour of the entertainment world, bring... Read More

First Published: May 07, 2025, 12:12 IST
Rajinikanth Hails Operation Sindoor, Says 'No Stopping Until Mission Accomplished'

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 10:23 IST

Operation Sindoor: Rajinikanth reacts as India strikes nine of Pakistan's terrorist bases.

Rajinikanth reacts to Operation Sindoor.

India attack on Pakistan: On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 1:44 a.m., the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. These locations were believed to be used for planning and directing attacks on India. According to sources, it has resulted in the deaths of at least 17 terrorists and injuries to 60 others.

Operation Sindoor LIVE Updates

Recommended Stories

Megastar Rajinikanth took to X (formerly Twitter) to show his support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi following the success of the recent government-led operation.

Expressing his support following the launch of Operation Sindoor, Rajinikanth wrote in his post, The fighters fight begins No stopping until the mission is accomplished! The entire NATION is with you."

The fighter's fight begins No stopping until the mission is accomplished! The entire NATION is with you. @PMOIndia @HMOIndia#OperationSindoor JAI HIND   Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) May 7, 2025

Many replied to his tweet. One comment read, When it comes to nation thalaivar Rajinikanth as a first person to voice out in this film industry Jai hind." Another read, When Rajnikanth is with us, who can beat us!"

What is Operation Sindoor?

The strikes targeted key terror infrastructure across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Pakistan, with precision hits reported in areas including Kotli, Ahmadpur Sharqia, Muzaffarabad, Muridke, and Faisalabad. Describing the operation, the army emphasised that the strikes were carefully calibrated to avoid escalation and did not target any Pakistani military facilities. The Ministry of Defence issued a statement in the wee hours. The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. Altogether, nine sites have been targeted. Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution."

About the Author Shreyanka Mazumdar Shreyanka Mazumdar is Chief Sub Editor of the entertainment team at News18. With an unbridled passion for all things Bollywood, she loves deep-diving into the glitz and glamour of the entertainment world, bring... Read More Shreyanka Mazumdar is Chief Sub Editor of the entertainment team at News18. With an unbridled passion for all things Bollywood, she loves deep-diving into the glitz and glamour of the entertainment world, bring... Read More

First Published: May 07, 2025, 10:19 IST
Shahid Kapoor Writes 'India Never Provokes', Later Edits And Turns Off Comments On Post

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 23:01 IST

The actor shared a powerful image of an Indian Air Force aircraft on his official Instagram account and initially captioned it, India doesn't provoke. But India never forgets.

Shahid Kapoor and several Bollywood stars express support for Operation Sindoor.

Shahid Kapoor is among several Bollywood celebrities who have expressed their support for the Indian Armed Forces in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, a measured" and non-escalatory" military response to the recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam. The actor shared a powerful image of an Indian Air Force aircraft on his official Instagram account and initially captioned it, India doesnt provoke. But India never forgets," accompanied by the Indian flag emoji and the hashtag #OperationSindoor.

However, Shahid later updated his post, removing the statement and retaining only the emoji and hashtag. He also disabled the comment section of the now-viral post.

Recommended Stories

The Indian film industry has shown a united front in support of the Armed Forces. Actor Ayushmann Khurrana also took to Instagram, stating, Terrorism has no place in this world," with a Tricolour emoji and a prominent image with the words Operation Sindoor".

Ranveer Singh, who previously worked with Shahid Kapoor in Padmaavat, joined in by posting the Indian flag on his Instagram Story along with the hashtag #OperationSindoor.

Veteran actor and politician Kamal Haasan issued a strong statement aligning himself with the national sentiment. He wrote, A proud India stands united with its armed forces. This is the resolute response of a strong nation that will not be divided by cowardly acts of terror. I applaud the decisive and strategic military action taken by the Government of India. Jai Hind."

Ajay Devgn also voiced his appreciation for the governments stand. Saluting our Honourable Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi and our Indian forces. India stands tall and strong. Jai Hind!" he wrote on social media.

About the Author Entertainment Bureau Entertainment Bureau brings you all updates from the world of entertainment -- breaking news, Twitter trends, features, movie reviews, exclusive interviews and photos of the biggest stars. Be it the newest kid ... Read More Entertainment Bureau brings you all updates from the world of entertainment -- breaking news, Twitter trends, features, movie reviews, exclusive interviews and photos of the biggest stars. Be it the newest kid ... Read More

First Published: May 07, 2025, 22:58 IST
OPINION | Indias Operation Sindoor Against Terrorists In Pakistan Is All About Geopolitical Timing

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 15:45 IST

The Indian counterstrikes come at a time of a Trump tariff-induced uncertainty and hectic global trade deals to tide over it.

Operation Sindoor: India struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. (Photos: X)

Wars are not to be fought with hot heads. They are won with cold precision and planning, and timing is paramount.

Indias first military response to the Pahalgam Islamic terror attack on April 22 in which non-Muslim tourists were screened and massacred came whistling through the night breeze in the shape of missiles in the wee hours of Wednesday. Nine terror camps in Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistans Punjab province have been pulverised.

Recommended Stories

Moot here is the timing.

The Indian counterstrikes come at a time of a Trump tariff-induced uncertainty and hectic global trade deals to tide over it. They come riding on Indias frenetic diplomatic reach out to the major powers and also in its neighbourhood. And the reprisals, just two weeks after the Pahalgam attack, give the jolted Indian domestic audience immense confidence in its government.

Just a day before the missile strike on the Pakistani terror camps, New Delhi reportedly proposed Washington to charge zero-for-zero tariffs on steel, auto components and pharmaceuticals from the US. The reciprocal tariffs offer will hold up to a certain quantity of imports from the US beyond which imported industrial goods would attract regular duties. An India-US trade deal is expected to be closed by autumn this year, the Bloomberg report said quoting sources.

With the current urgency even in the US to negotiate new deals like these, steps in trade will come packaged with the understanding that America will not meddle in Indias right to protect its own safety and sovereignty.

Indias retaliation also comes hours after it inked a free trade agreement (FTA) with the United Kingdom. It comes as a statement of Indias global intent to carry out trade at a time of rising regional tensions and a world drifting back toward trade barriers and tariff wars.

The spectre of Trump-era protectionism makes the timing perfect. British automobiles, whiskies, and machinery will gain, while Indian exporters get better access to UK markets for garments, leather goods, jewellery, and food products.

More importantly, the FTA binds India and the UK in a closer embrace and makes it difficult for one to work against the others interests.

The response of Russia, perhaps Indias closest global ally, was initially confusing.

Right after the April 22 attack, Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov called both Indian external affairs minister S Jaishankar and Pakistani foreign minister Ishaq Dar and asked them to resolve disputes through political and diplomatic means. He brought up the 1972 Shimla Agreement and the 1999 Lahore Declaration as frameworks for engagement.

Some in New Delhi viewed this approach as monkey-balancing and not Russias traditional unequivocal support for India, especially given the barbarity of the Pahalgam attack.

But Russias top boss soon moved into damage control. President Vladimir Putin spoke to PM Narendra Modi on Monday, strongly condemning the Pahalgam attack and offering full support in punishing the perpetrators. The Kremlins statement made no mention of mediation and aligned fully with Indias counterterrorism stand. Putin also accepted PM Modis invitation to visit India later this year.

Perhaps the most interesting has been Chinas stance after the missile strikes.

In a statement on Wednesday, it called on India and Pakistan to exercise maximum restraint.

Trying to assuage its neighbourhood lackey, Pakistan, it said: China finds Indias military operation early this morning regrettable."

But in the same breath, it said: China opposes all forms of terrorism."

We are concerned about the ongoing situation. India and Pakistan are and will always be each others neighbours. They are both Chinas neighbours as well. We urge both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, remain calm, exercise restraint and refrain from taking actions that may further complicate the situation," read the Chinese foreign ministry statement, pulling China subtly and deftly out of a partisan commitment.

India and China have been silently and gradually coming closer since the Galwan skirmish. Diplomatic back-channels have been extremely busy. China wants trade with India to partly offset the effect of Trump tariffs. It is unlikely to destabilise the region and sacrifice its self-interest at the altar of Pakistani adventurism.

India has also sent a quiet but strong message to troublemakers in neighbouring Bangladesh that any misadventure by state or non-state actors may lead to outcomes it would like to imagine.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Overall, Bharat has chosen the time for military reprisal wisely. Whether it snowballs into much bigger geopolitical changes in the region is to be seen.

Abhijit Majumder is a senior journalist. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

First Published: May 07, 2025, 15:43 IST
Operation Sindoor | Modis Message To Terrorists: You Will Be Hunted, Wherever You Are

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 14:01 IST

With Operation Sindoor, PM Modi has again demonstrated his uncompromising stance on terrorism. Pakistan must heed his track record, or face deeper repercussions

This approach isnt new for Modi; as Gujarat's CM, he began fighting terrorism head-on, aiming to crush terrorists with a zero-tolerance policy. (PTI)

Whether as Chief Minister or now as Prime Minister, PM Narendra Modi leaves no stone unturned in crushing terrorists.

Prime Minister Modi has avenged the Pahalgam attack within 14 days. Previously, Modi avenged the terrorist attacks in Uri and Pulwama within two weeks. Each response was progressively bigger, stricter, and more effective. This approach isnt new for Modi; as Gujarats CM, he began fighting terrorism head-on, aiming to crush terrorists with a zero-tolerance policy.

Recommended Stories

The destruction of terror infrastructure in Pakistan under Operation Sindoor is historic. Not only were Pakistan-based headquarters of groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed destroyed, but also Hizbul Mujahideens main training centre was dismantled. Nine bases were destroyed, some in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, others in or near major Pakistani cities. For instance, Muridke Markaz Taiba, from where Hafiz Mohammad Saeed ran Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Jaish-e-Mohammed headquarters, Markaz Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur, were demolished.

Additionally, seven other bases, which served as training centers or launch pads for terrorist organizations like Jaish, Lashkar, or Hizbul Mujahideen, were destroyed. These bases were used to send terrorists to execute attacks in Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of India under Pakistans patronage.

By destroying these, Modi-led India has made it clear that anyone involved in terrorist attacks in India, or supporting them, will not be spared and will be killed wherever they are found. Bahawalpur, 100 km from the India-Pakistan Line of Control, saw no hesitation from Narendra Modi-led India in demolishing the Jaish headquarters there.

Modi interrupted his foreign tour post-Pahalgam attack, returning home to declare that the terrorists would not be spared, signalling trouble for terrorists and their haven, Pakistan. Granting the Indian Armed Forces full freedom to avenge Pahalgam, PM Modi fulfilled his promise within two weeks. Despite Pakistans nuclear threats, all terrorist hideouts were destroyed, cutting off Pakistans nose.

Prime Minister Modi personally led the operation from planning to execution. Even the name Operation Sindoor, symbolizing a powerful response to those who targeted Hindus in Pahalgam, was his idea. Modi understood the countrys sentiments, especially womens, and met their expectations.

This isnt new for Modi. He previously avenged the Pulwama attack with an airstrike in Balakot and the Uri attack with a surgical strike.

Modi established his zero-tolerance terrorism policy as Gujarats Chief Minister. After taking oath on October 7, 2001, he had to respond to the terrorist attack on Akshardham temple in Gandhinagar within a year. Ensuring the terrorists were killed by Black Cat Commandos, Modi also ensured those involved were caught and punished.

Subsequent terrorists plotting attacks in Gujarat were either killed or caught and punished. Modi faced his biggest challenge on July 26, 2008, when Indian Mujahideen terrorists executed serial blasts in Ahmedabad, killing over 50 people. He vowed to eliminate Indian Mujahideen, holding meetings and boosting his officers morale until all terrorists were caught, charged, and severely punished through the courts.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

This zero-tolerance policy was seen again in Operation Sindoor, 14 days after the Pahalgam attack.

Pakistan must heed Narendra Modis track record, or it will face deeper repercussions, along with its terrorist associates.

About the Author Brajesh Kumar Singh Senior journalist with over 25 years experience across television, print and digital, Brajesh Kumar Singh is Group Editor-Integration and Convergence at Network18. A PhD in Communication, he is member of the Bo... Read More Senior journalist with over 25 years experience across television, print and digital, Brajesh Kumar Singh is Group Editor-Integration and Convergence at Network18. A PhD in Communication, he is member of the Bo... Read More

First Published: May 07, 2025, 14:01 IST
Opinion | Islamabad Caught Napping As India Destroys Pakistans Terror Infra With Operation Sindoor

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 07:50 IST

Operation Sindoor has served a notice to the enemies of peace, and to the global community that India will protect its people, by any means necessary

Indian launches 'Operation Sindoor' to hit terror bases in Pakistan and PoK | Image.X

India was supposed to hold nationwide war preparedness drills on Wednesday. The sirens, however, wailed throughout Pakistan on Tuesday nightfrom Muzaffarabad to Bahawalpur, and from Rawalpindi to Muridke. On target were Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists, the madrasas they use for indoctrination, and the infrastructure they use to train terrorists. India specifically chose to target the nerve centres of terrorism in Pakistan. In a major show of force, for example, India has successfully targeted the Lashkar-e-Taiba headquarters in Bahawalpur.

India conducted precision airstrikes across nine terror targets in Pakistan. Importantly, India made it clear that no Pakistani military installations were targetedjust the nerve centres of terrorism that had fuelled cross-border bloodshed for decades. The strikes were carried out without violating Pakistani airspace, showcasing not only technological precision but also strategic restraint.

Recommended Stories

Pakistan, however, is promising to hit back. This time, the radical Generals cannot lie to the public and claim Indian strikes never took place. The fact is, Indias attack on terror targets across Pakistan is now on tape. It woke the Pakistani awaam from their sleep. It reverberated across the length and breadth of Pakistan. Everyone in the world is seeing how India wages a war on terrorism.

And the message from New Delhi is unmissable: there is no room for ambiguity anymore. The terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people was not going to go unanswered. For too long, Pakistans military establishment has operated under the illusion that they can keep bleeding India with a thousand cuts, without facing the consequences on their own soil. Operation Sindoor has shattered that illusion.

What sets this operation apart is not just its scale, but its clarity of intent. These werent symbolic fireworks. This was India dismantling the operational architecture of terror, hitting training camps, weapons depots, and ideological nerve centres. By striking deep into Pakistans territorywithout even crossing its airspaceIndia also demonstrated a new level of military sophistication. This was surgical in every sense, both technologically and diplomatically.

This time, India did not hold back. The Modi government did not bow to Western opinion, for no appeals for global understanding are more important than the blood of those innocent tourists who Pakistani terrorists killed. India acted in its sovereign interest, and let the world catch up after it had struck Pakistan. The result? A global audience now sees the reality of Pakistans double game. While Islamabad pleads victimhood, the footage of these strikes tells another storyof a state unwilling to act against terror groups thriving under its very nose.

Pakistans military, predictably, has gone into damage control. Claims of downed Indian jets and accidental strikes on civilian infrastructure have begun to trickle out. But the larger truth can no longer be denied. From social media videos to eyewitness accounts, the Pakistani public knows what happenedand perhaps for the first time in decades, theyre asking why their own state continues to host these militant enterprises at such great cost.

For India, Operation Sindoor is a pivot. It marks a shift from offensive defence to extraordinarily assertive deterrence. Tonight, India has signalled to the world that Indian restraint should never be mistaken for weakness. The Modi government has, once again, shown that when red lines are crossed, India will respond on its own termswithout blinking, and without waiting for global permission slips. After all, a lot has changed between 26/11 and 2025.

India is prepared to fight the good fight against terrorism. As Pakistan scrambles to respond militarily, India has activated Operation Abhyaasa nationwide civil defence preparedness drill spanning over 240 districts. Air raid sirens, evacuation rehearsals, and blackout drills are now part of Indias strategic posture. This is not just preparation for war; its a clear warning: India is ready for every eventuality, and it will not be caught off guard.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Critics may ask whether this is the start of a new military escalation between two nuclear powers. But the real question ishow long can India tolerate a neighbour that hosts, trains, and funds terrorist networks with impunity? Operation Sindoor was not a declaration of war on Pakistan. It was a declaration of war on terrorism.

With this decisive response, India has reclaimed the initiative. It has redrawn the rules of engagement. It has reminded the world that terrorism will not be countered with hashtags, dossiers, and diplomatic notes alone. Sometimes, it must be met with missiles. Operation Sindoor has avenged Pahalgam. More importantly, it has served noticeto the enemies of peace, and to the global communitythat India will protect its people, by any means necessary.

About the Author Sanbeer Singh Ranhotra Sanbeer Singh Ranhotra is a producer and video journalist at Network18. He is enthusiastic about and writes on both national affairs as well as geopolitics. Sanbeer Singh Ranhotra is a producer and video journalist at Network18. He is enthusiastic about and writes on both national affairs as well as geopolitics.

First Published: May 07, 2025, 07:50 IST
Centre Calls All-Party Meeting On Thursday To Brief Leaders On 'Operation Sindoor'

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 19:37 IST

In the meeting, the Centre will brief all parties on the armed forces' strike targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Riiiju posted on X about the proposed meeting. (PTI file photo)

The central government has convened an all-party meeting on Thursday to brief political leaders on the military strikes carried out by the Indian armed forces targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju shared details of the proposed meeting on X, stating that it will take place in the Parliament Library Building, within the Parliament Complex.

Recommended Stories

Govt has called an All Party leaders meeting at 11 am on 8th May, 2025 at Committee Room: G-074, in the Parliament Library Building, Parliament Complex in New Delhi," Rijiju wrote.

Govt has called an All Party leaders meeting at 11 am on 8th May, 2025 at Committee Room: G-074, in the Parliament Library Building, Parliament Complex in New Delhi. https://t.co/1hcBepMReC Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) May 7, 2025

The meeting comes in the wake of escalating regional tensions following missile strikes launched early Wednesday by Indian forces on nine terror targets in Pakistan and PoK, in an operation dubbed Operation Sindoor, carried out in response to the 22 April terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

The strike was carried out two weeks after the terror attack, where 26 people  including 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen  were killed in Baisaran Valley.

Meanwhile, at the meeting, political parties will be briefed on several aspects of Operation Sindoor, including the objectives of the operation, the specific terror targets hit, the strategic and security impact, and Indias preparedness in the event of any retaliatory actions from Pakistan.

Commenting on the operation, the central government stated that the armed forces had carried out a measured, non-escalatory, proportionate, and responsible" strike aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan, to deter and pre-empt" any further attacks following the Pahalgam incident.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

ALSO READ: No Military, Civilian Site Hit In Indian Ops, But Pakistani Misadventure Will Escalate Situation: Govt

(With inputs from agencies)

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: May 07, 2025, 15:38 IST
'Modi Ko Bata Dena, Nahi Bolna...': BJP Hails PM, Asserts 'Pahalgam Stands Avenged'

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 13:35 IST

Refering to the incident where terrorists after killing a tourist told his wife to inform PM Modi, BJP's Amit Malviya on X wrote, "Modi ko batana, nahi bolna chahiye tha."

BJP releases a video of PM Modi, hailing him for the government's action on terror camps. (File Image)

As India avenged the Pahalgam terror attack by striking nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), BJP hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his very particular set of skills" and said that silence spoke, actions roared, Pahalgam stands avenged".

Refering to the incident where terrorists after killing a tourist told his wife to inform PM Modi about the attack, BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya shared a video of the Prime Minister on X and wrote, Modi ko batana, nahi bolna chahiye tha (Should not have asked to inform PM Modi)."

Recommended Stories

The video, targeting Pakistan over terrorism, claims that India has avenged the Pahalgam attack by striking nine terror camps. Prime Minister Modi has been decribed as the OG in video, who pertains skills that can become nightmare for people backing terrorism.

Moment Of Pride For Us: PM Modi Briefs Cabinet Colleagues

Meanwhile, PM Modi on Wednesday briefed his cabinet colleagues about Indias retaliatory strikes over Pahalgam horror against terror camps in Pakistan and PoK under Operation Sindoor, calling it a moment of pride".

Describing the operation as a perfect strike by the armed forces", the Prime Minister informed the ministers about how the nine strikes were conducted  4 in Pakistans Punjab province and 5 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Hum sab ke liye garv ka pal hai (this is a moment of pride for all of us)," PM Modi told his ministers at the meeting, according to sources.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

About the Author Mahima Joshi Mahima Joshi, Sub-Editor at News18.com, works with the India and Breaking team. Covering national stories and bringing breaking news to the table are her forte. She is deeply interested in Indian politics and a... Read More Mahima Joshi, Sub-Editor at News18.com, works with the India and Breaking team. Covering national stories and bringing breaking news to the table are her forte. She is deeply interested in Indian politics and a... Read More

First Published: May 07, 2025, 13:35 IST
'Resolved To Give Befitting Response': Amit Shah Hails Operation Sindoor Against Terrorism

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 10:03 IST

Shah said that Operation Sindoor is India's response to the brutal killing of our innocent brothers in Pahalgam

Union home minister Amit Shah (File Image: News18)

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday lauded Operation Sindoor by Indian armed forces against terrorists in Pakistan and PoK and said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is resolved to give a befitting response to any attack on India and its people.

Shah said that Operation Sindoor is Indias response to the brutal killing of our innocent brothers in Pahalgam. He asserted that India remains firmly committed to eradicating terrorism from its roots.

Recommended Stories

In a military operation following the Pahalgam terror attack, India launched Operation Sindoor, striking nine high-value terror targets deep inside Pakistani territory. The operation targeted infrastructure linked to terror groups responsible for the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen in Jammu and Kashmir.

According to official statements, the nine targets included camps and logistical bases associated with terror groups operating from within Pakistan and PoK. The Indian Armys spokesperson emphasised the precise nature of the strikes, stating, Our actions have been focused and precise. We have only targeted terrorist camps from where attacks against India have been planned and executed."

The Army further clarified that the operation was non-escalatory in intent and execution, aiming strictly at dismantling terror infrastructure while sparing civilian, military, and economic structures in Pakistan. Justice is served. Jai Hind," the spokesperson added.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Indian intelligence agencies had earlier traced the Pahalgam attack to Pakistan-based groups, with The Resistance Front  a Lashkar-e-Taiba proxy  claiming responsibility. In response, India had vowed a decisive countermeasure, combining diplomatic pressure with military preparedness. Operation Sindoor marks one of the most significant cross-border actions taken by India since the Balakot airstrikes in 2019.

(with inputs from IANS)

About the Author Saurabh Verma Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19

First Published: May 07, 2025, 10:03 IST
'Was Every Single Terrorist Killed': Congress's Rashid Alvi Questions Operation Sindoor

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 10:06 IST

Hours after India struck terror sites in Pakistan and PoK, Congress leader Rashid Alvi questioned if "something like Pahalgam would not happen ever again."

Congress leader Rashid Alvi. (Image: ANI)

The Congress seems to have yet again failed to keep its unity" intact as hours after India successfully conducted Operation Sindoor to avenge the Pahalgam attack, leaders from the party began asking for proof, even as the partys official position was in support of the government and the forces. Hours after India struck terror sites in Pakistan and PoK, Congress leader Rashid Alvi questioned if every terrorist was killed" and if something like Pahalgam would not happen ever again."

Much better reply needs to be given, this is bare minimum. Our forces did what govt of India told them to do, but the question again arises. Was every single terrorist killed? Will there wont be another Pahalgam? PM Modi had said that the remaining land of terrorists will be destroyedif that has happened, then it is good," Alvi said while speaking to news agency ANI.

Recommended Stories

#WATCH | Delhi: On #OperationSindoor, Congress leader Rashid Alvi says, Much better reply needs to be given, this is bare minimum. Our forces did what govt of India told them to do, but the question again arises. Was every single terrorist killed? Will there wont be another pic.twitter.com/Rtn2tXPVP8 ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

The Karnataka unit of Congress, too, fumbled as it posted a peace" message on its X handle and deleted it later. Karnataka Congress posted The most powerful weapon of mankind is peace  Mahatma Gandhi." It was posted after Indias targeted strikes on terror sites in Pakistan and Pok, and was removed later.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Earlier on Tuesday, Congress said in a statement that national unity and solidarity was the need of the hour." We are extremely proud of our Indian Armed Forces who have stuck terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. We applaud their resolute resolve and courage," the party said, adding, Since the day of the Pahalgam Terror Attack, the Indian National Congress has categorically stood with the Armed Forces and the Government to take any decisive action against cross border terror. National Unity and solidarity is the need of the hour and the Indian National Congress stands with our Armed Forces. Our leaders have shown the path in past, and National Interest is supreme for us."

Indian missiles struck terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) late on Tuesday night, two weeks after cross-border terrorists killed 26 people in Pahalgam. New Delhi described the strikescalled Operation Sindooras measured and non-escalatory," stressing that no Pakistani military facilities were targeted.

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: May 07, 2025, 10:06 IST
Android 16 To Finally Support Desktop Mode? Here's What We Know

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 06, 2025, 10:57 IST

Android 16 beta is available across devices but it seems Google has a big upgrade in the works which will make the users happy.

The desktop mode on Android 16 will give it more features. (Photo: AI generated)

Android phones have got limited support for the PC mode, something that Samsung offers with the DeX mode for its users. But soon we could see it extend to all Android devices, at least those with enough power to give it the right level of performance.

The Android 16 beta developer edition reportedly has the option that lets you enable desktop-like experience by connecting the smartphone to the PC/laptop. The test has been spotted running on the Pixel 8 Pro model connected to a laptop.

Recommended Stories

Android 16 Desktop Mode Incoming?

The Android 16 beta version with the DeX-like feature has been shared by tipster Mishaal Rahman in this report earlier this week. The mode basically means you can connect the phone (Pixel 8 Pro in this case) with a laptop using the USB C wired cable on both ends.

Doing this, allowed him to get the Android phones taskbar calling with the highlight apps option at the bottom of the display. You can see all the apps on the app drawer of the Pixel phone opening in full-screen mode, something that will make these devices extremely versatile.

The Google Pixel phones are likely to support the feature initially, if the company finds the results good enough for a public roll out. We are also hoping that Google eventually offers support for other high-end Android 16 phones which will make the platform appealing to more users.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

We could hear more about this and other Android 16 updates at the Android Show that Google is hosting a week before the I/O 2025 on May 13. This is the first time when we are seeing Google do an event before the I/O 2025 keynote, and it does feature the Android chief at the company, which clearly tells us something.

The Android Show is unlikely to be just about Android 16, and we could see the new TV version from Google also, the Wear OS 6 version and its features. Google is planning for an earlier Android 16 release date this year, which means the company needs to be quick with its beta and public updates. Well be keeping a close eye on the updates from the events and Google about the desktop mode.

About the Author S Aadeetya S Aadeetya, Special Correspondent at News18 Tech, accidentally got into journalism 10 years ago, and since then, has been part of established media houses covering the latest trends in technology and helping fr... Read More S Aadeetya, Special Correspondent at News18 Tech, accidentally got into journalism 10 years ago, and since then, has been part of established media houses covering the latest trends in technology and helping fr... Read More

News18 Tech delivers the latest technology updates, including phone launches, gadget reviews, AI advancements, and more. Stay informed with breaking tech news , expert insights, and trends from India and around the world . Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!

Location : California, USA

First Published: May 06, 2025, 10:57 IST
Anand Mahindra Backs Operation Sindoor: Our Prayers Are With Our Forces

Curated By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: May 08, 2025, 08:26 IST

In a brief yet impactful tweet, Anand Mahindra expressed his support for the Indian Armed Forces' Operation Sindoor.

The operation was carried out in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. (Photo Credit: X)

The Indian Armed Forces, in a retaliatory move, carried out multiple missile strikes on nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the terror groups in Pahalgam last month. The strikes were conducted under the Indian governments Operation Sindoor, weeks after 26 civilians were killed in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam. As soon as details about the operation came out, reactions have been arriving from across the country.

Joining the bandwagon, industrialist Anand Mahindra took to X and showed his support for the mission. Our prayers are with our forces One nationTogether we Stand," he tweeted while resharing the Indian Armys graphic of Operation Sindoor.

Recommended Stories

Our prayers are with our forcesOne nationTogether we Stand pic.twitter.com/7Ee30rZ8ew  anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) May 6, 2025

The particular visual in question features the words Operation Sindoor on a black background, along with a small container filled with sindoor (red vermilion)something signifying the loss of lives in the Pahalgam terror attack. Social media users took to Mahindras comment section and echoed similar sentiments while also sharing other thoughts. A user wrote, We stand with India," while another added, Thanks for the constant support to the Army sir. You always speak for them irrespective of anything."

Our Forces Are Great Enough To Be Precise Enough! The Way They Have Defended, They Are Able To Defend Too!" another comment read.

Operation Sindoor: What Happened?

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

In response to the Pahalgam terror attack, a major counter-terrorism move, namely Operation Sindoor, was launched by the Indian Armed Forces on May 7, a little after midnight. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement, explained that India exercised its right to respond and pre-empt as well as deter more such cross-border attacks. These actions were measured, non-escalatory, proportionate, and responsible. They focused on dismantling the terrorist infrastructure and disabling terrorists likely to be sent across to India."

From celebrities to world leaders, strong reactions have been coming in in support of the mission.

About the Author Business Desk A team of writers and reporters decodes vast terms of personal finance and making money matters simpler for you. From latest initial public offerings (IPOs) in the market to best investment options, we cover al... Read More A team of writers and reporters decodes vast terms of personal finance and making money matters simpler for you. From latest initial public offerings (IPOs) in the market to best investment options, we cover al... Read More

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: May 07, 2025, 13:20 IST
As Women In Uniform Brief On Op Sindoor, Netizens Recall Pak Army Chief's Two-Nation Speech | Here's Why

Curated By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 15:23 IST

Wing Commander Singh and Colonel Qureshi explained how the Army, Navy, and Air Force coordinated in the joint operation.

India's strength lies in unity, said X users as they recalled Asim Munir's (C) viral speech amid briefing by Wing Commander Vyomika Singh (L) and Colonel Sophia Qureshi (R).

Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Colonel Sophia Qureshi led the official media briefing on Operation Sindoor, Indias military response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people. The pre-dawn air and missile strikes targeted terror launchpads in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, killing 70 terrorists. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri also joined the briefing.

Singh, a decorated helicopter pilot in the IAF, and Qureshi, a senior Army officer, explained how the Army, Navy, and Air Force coordinated in the joint operation.

Recommended Stories

The Internet is now praising the powerful image of these two senior women officers leading the briefing, while also recalling Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munirs recent comments on the Two-Nation Theory."

Sharing a clip from the briefing, a user recalled, Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir says, Hindus & Muslims cant live together. Here, Col. Sophia Qureshi & Wg Cmdr. Vyomika Singh giving the best treatment to Pak-sponsored terrorism. India has proven Pakistan wrong, once again."

Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir says, Hindu & Muslim can't live togetherHere Col Sofiya Qureshi & Wg Cmdr Vyomika Singh giving be!t treatment to Pak sponsored Terror!sm India has proven Pakistan wrong, Once again Asim Munir, the Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan, has been associated with the Two-Nation Theory," a concept that underpins the nations ideological foundation. This theory, originally proposed by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, claims that Hindus and Muslims are two distinct nations. Last month, speaking at a ceremony at the Pakistan Military Academy in Kakul, Munir said that this theory formed the foundation for the creation of Pakistan. A viral post on X showed a photo of Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Colonel Sophia Qureshi leading the Operation Sindoor media briefing. The caption read, Two daughters of India Wing Cdr. Vyomika Singh & Col. Sophia Qureshi briefing the Nation on Operation Sindoor  what a powerful moment. This is what pride truly looks like. This Is Naari Shakti, This Is Rashtra Shakti (This is Women Power, This is National Power)." Overlay text on the image read, Two women in uniform leading a mission named after Sindoor, a mark of strength, sacrifice & Shakti. The symbolism is powerful. Bharat is not just fighting, its redefining." https://twitter.com/sahaBishals945/status/1920018381656183228/photo/1 Another mentioned it was excellent messaging." Operation Sindoor briefing done by two women officers from two different religions- Col Sofiya Qureshi and Wg Cdr Vyomika Singh. Excellent messaging. pic.twitter.com/chEXi5l5Mo  Rohini Singh (@rohini_sgh) May 7, 2025

Col. Sophia Qureshi, Wg. Cdr. Vyomika Singh. Thats my India! Our enemies, beware!" a comment read.

One nation, many religions. A strong message to Pakistan from India," another post read. ONE Nation, MANY religions.A strong message to Pakistan from India.Col Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh briefing the media after the Operation Sindoor. #OperaionSindoor pic.twitter.com/9vN9jZIA46  Satish Acharya (@satishacharya) May 7, 2025

A person wrote, Two women. Two uniforms. Two faiths. One mission: Service to the nation. Col Sofiya Qureshi and Wg Cdr Vyomika Singh leading the Operation Sindoor briefing is more than strategyits a statement. Indias strength lies in unity."

Two women. Two uniforms. Two faiths.One mission: Service to the nation.Col Sofiya Qureshi and Wg Cdr Vyomika Singh leading the Operation Sindoor briefing is more than strategyit's a statement.India's strength lies in unity.#OperationSindoor #IndianArmedForces pic.twitter.com/ONyvFjTJZN Arfa Khanum Sherwani (@khanumarfa) May 7, 2025

Posting a picture from the briefing, a user commented, Operation Sindoor. Colonel Sophia Qureshi. Wing commander Vyomika Singh. This picture is going to haunt Pakistanis for the rest of their lives."

#OperationSindoor Colonel Sofiya Qureshi. Wing commander vyomika singh. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all This picture is going to haunt pakistanis for the rest of their lives The operation was named Sindoor", referring to the red vermilion traditionally worn by married Hindu women. This name was chosen to honour the widows of the Pahalgam attack victims, who lost their husbands during the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

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: May 07, 2025, 14:55 IST
Met Gala 2025: Pakistan Fan Waits Outside Shah Rukh Khan's New York Hotel To Catch A Glimpse

Curated By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 17:02 IST

Pakistani content creator completed her childhood dream of seeing Shah Rukh Khan after excitedly waiting for him outside a New York hotel.

Shah Rukh Khan made his Met Gala debut on May 6. (Photo Credit: Instagram)

met galA New York-based food content creator with roots in Pakistan won the internet with a viral clip on Tuesday, May 4, as she waited patiently outside a New York hotel to catch a glimpse of Indias legendary superstar Shah Rukh Khan. As the great Bollywood actor headed for the Met Gala 2025, Sehrish fulfilled her childhood dream of seeing the man himself live.

Come with me to find Shah Rukh Khan in NYC," the lady said in an Instagram clip posted on her account sehrish.eats. Sehrish walked up to the actors hotel near the Metropolitan Museum of Art and joined a host of fans waiting outside just to get one glimpse of Khan, who made his first-ever visit to the Met Gala  a celebration of fashion that famous personalities from all over the globe take part in.

Recommended Stories

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sehrish   (@sehrish.eats)

Love of my life, light of my life, my entire dil  King Khan," said Sehrish in the video as she got the chance to see one of the biggest superstars of Indian cinema. I found him, he looked so good! My inner child is so happy," Sehrish captioned the video that has attracted 2.7 million views and worldwide comments.

Fans of SRK were especially keen to know how the content creator found out where he stayed for the Met Gala event while others congratulated her and poured their heart out. Girl how did yall know what hotel he was at? Im glad you got to see him!," one fan asked the woman. Netflix then made a filmy remark, stating: Har pal har ghadi har waqt mere naina mere SRK ko doondhte hai."

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Apart from Khan, other Bollywood actors were also present at the event. Sehrish initially spotted Sidharth Malhotra, which only raised her hopes of also meeting her favourite Indian star.

In the video, a red carpet was laid out for all the visiting personalities. The first to walk out was Sabyasachi, the designer of Khans outfit at his Met Gala debut. Finally, the superstar came out and was instantly swarmed by a large crowd. And thats how Sehrish lived her childhood dream.

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: May 07, 2025, 16:43 IST
Netizens Thank PM For Avenging Pahalgam Attack With Op Sindoor: 'They Said Tell Modi...We Did...'

Curated By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 12:53 IST

In response to the attack in Pahalgam, the Indian Army conducted precision strikes post midnight on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK.

Social media platforms were flooded with messages of pride and support, with many civilians hailing the Indian Armed Forces. (X/@Ammulu_sam)

In one of the most significant retaliatory operations against Pakistan, the Indian Armed Forces launched a powerful mission targeting nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Codenamed Operation Sindoor, the strike caught Pakistan completely off guard, with multiple loud explosions reported across the region on Wednesday. Our actions have been focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution," the Indian government said in a statement.

Confirming that the strikes specifically targeted terrorist infrastructure used to plan and direct attacks against India, the government stated that further details of the mission would be disclosed at a later stage.

Recommended Stories

Indian Armed Forces Carried Out Precision Strike At Terrorist Camps.#OperationSindoor pic.twitter.com/5dj2gCS9UC MyGovIndia (@mygovindia) May 6, 2025

Following the official announcement by the Indian Army and the government, Operation Sindoor sparked widespread reactions across the country. Social media platforms were flooded with messages of pride and support, with many civilians hailing the Indian Armed Forces and expressing unwavering solidarity with the mission.

A user wrote, Great to see our forces taking strong action against terrorism! Proud of our brave soldiers. Jai Hind!"

Great to see our forces taking strong action against terrorism! Proud of our brave soldiers. Jai Hind! Another added, Dear India, This trio just made history by #OperationSindoor. Their faces might not flash on news channels 24/7 like politicians. Their names might not be on everyones lips. They might even be forgotten after they retire, but they are our biggest heroes tonight. They avenged the Sindoor of our daughters. Salute and remember them." Dear India, This trio just made history by #OperationSindoor Their faces might not flash on news channels 24/7 like politicians Their names might not be on everyone's mouth They might even be forgotten after they retire But they are our biggest heroes tonight  They pic.twitter.com/9ev5ljOwYY  Roshan Rai (@RoshanKrRaii) May 6, 2025

They attacked our peace. We answered with strength. Operation Sindoor. Justice is served. Jai Hind!" a comment read.

Visuals from Pune show locals celebrating the retaliatory attacks with firecrackers in the late hours.

Pune Waalon.. Thats The Way To Celebrate Another proud Indian continued, Operation Sindoor, a mission to avenge the sindoor wiped from the foreheads of our mothers and sisters in Pahalgam. What a powerful and fitting name for this tribute! Jai Hind." Picture speaks alotThankyou @narendramodi #OperationSindoor #OperationSindooor pic.twitter.com/xdcUz4HEIm  ammulu (@Ammulu_sam) May 7, 2025

Amid the strong reactions, many prominent personalities voiced their views on the mission. Spiritual leader Sadhguru shared a news report on X and tweeted, Wishing Our Forces Safety and Success. Blessings. -Sg #OperationSindoor."

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Bollywood celebrities like Riteish Deshmukh, Anupam Kher, and Paresh Rawal dropped their earliest reactions on social media platforms, with slogans such as Bharat Mata Ki Jay." Likewise, many family members of the deceased loved ones in the Pahalgam terror attack have expressed their gratitude to the Indian government for avenging their deaths.

The strikes in Pakistan and PoK came in the aftermath of the horrific Pahalgam terrorist attack, in which 26 innocent tourists were killed in broad daylight.

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

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: May 07, 2025, 12:53 IST
Snakes Are Peeled Alive Here After Being Filled With Water, All In The Name Of Fashion

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 15:31 IST

In a small village called Kapetakan in Java, Indonesia, snakes arent killed out of fear, theyre slaughtered to make shiny handbags, shoes, and belts

In this factory, dangerous snakes like cobras writhe in pain as their skins are removed in seconds. (News18 Hindi)

Every year, thousands of people in India lose their lives to snake bites. Its no surprise then that just the sight of a snake, especially something as deadly as a cobra, can cause panic. Most people react by running away or trying to kill the snake out of fear. But imagine a place where the roles are reversedwhere people dont fear snakes, but snakes are the ones begging for their lives.

In a small village called Kapetakan in Java, Indonesia, snakes arent killed out of fear, theyre slaughtered for fashion. Here, snakes are caught, tortured, and killed to make shiny handbags, shoes, and belts. The reality behind these luxury items is far more disturbing than most people realise.

Recommended Stories

Recently, disturbing images from this place have gone viral on social media. Upon investigation, it was found that they belong to the slaughterhouse of Boss Cobra, also known as Wakira. His factory first caught global attention in 2013. At his facility, snakes are brutally killed and their skins are used to make bags, shoes, wallets, and belts. These items are sold cheaply in Indonesia but fetch sky-high prices, up to Rs 33 lakh, in Europe and the United States. The cruel reality behind this luxury is hard to stomach.

According to media reports, around 10 people work in Wakiras factory, earning a combined monthly income of Rs 13 lakh. In this factory, dangerous snakes like cobras writhe in pain as their skins are removed in seconds. These skins are then sent to other parts of Java for further processing.

In Comal District of Central Java, skilled artisans turn these snake skins into fashion products. Their shine catches everyones eye, but few know the cruelty behind it. The process is barbaric: the snakes head is hit to knock it out, then a pipe is inserted into its mouth and filled with water to inflate its body. A leather rope is tied around its neck to keep the water in. After about 10 minutes, the snake is hung on a meat hook, and its skin is peeled off like a glove. Many snakes remain alive during this ordeal and die slowlysometimes after daysfrom trauma or dehydration.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

The peeled skins are dried on wooden boards, either in hot ovens or under the sun, and then shaped and sent to tanneries. But the cruelty does not end with the skin.

Alongside luxury handbags and belts, snake meat is also in high demand here. Some people eat it, while others use it for medicinal purposes. In Indonesia, it is believed that snake meat can cure skin diseases, asthma, and even boost male potency. So, both the skin and meat of these snakes bring in profit. But it raises a serious question about animal cruelty.

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 : Indonesia

First Published: May 07, 2025, 15:31 IST
Pakistan Minister Denies Terror Camps After India's Op Sindoor, Anchor Shuts Him Down On Live TV

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 08:30 IST

India avenged Pahalgam terror attack with strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and PoK early Wednesday. Pakistan minister was fact-checked by anchor as he denied having terror camps

Pak minister gets fact-checked on live TV over terror camp denial in Pakistan (Photo: X)

Pakistan I&B minister Attaullah Tarar was left speechless and stumped in a television interview shortly after India struck Pakistan and PoK under Operation Sindoor early Wednesday.

Tarar claimed that Pakistan did not have terrorist camps, a brazen statement which was immediately fact-checked by Sky News anchor Yalda Hakim, who pointed out Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asifs recent admission on her earlier show that his country has been doing this dirty work" for the United States for three decades.

Recommended Stories

Let me make it very clear, there are no terrorist camps in Pakistan. Pakistan is a victim of terrorism. We are the frontline state against terrorism. Indi,a on the other hand, when we had the Jafar Express hijacking, India did not even condemn it," Tarar claimed on the show.

Pakistani information minister Ataullah Tarar just went up on Sky News. It didnt go as planned. Incredible work by @SkyYaldaHakim  pic.twitter.com/pNKJvrjIGo Shubhangi Sharma (@ItsShubhangi) May 6, 2025

As the anchor pointed out, Asifs recent admission, the Pakistani minister invited her to Pakistan.

Post 9/11 was the frontline state in eliminating terrorism. I would like to invite you to Pakistan," he said.

She reminded Tarar that Osama bin Laden, the 9/11 mastermind who was gunned down by the US military in Pakistan in 2011, was found in Abbottabad.

I have been to Pakistan, and we know that Osama Bin Laden was discovered in Abbottabad in Pakistan," she responded.

Terming India as the aggressor", the Pakistani minister said that Pakistan would respond to Indias provocation".

We are responding. We shot down their planes. India is the provocator and aggressor," he said.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

India, avenging the Pahalgam terror attack, struck 9 terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir early Wednesday. The Indian armed forces executed the precision strike deep inside Pakistan without crossing the LoC.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi monitored the situation at night, according to sources.

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 : Islamabad, Pakistan

First Published: May 07, 2025, 07:19 IST
Closely Monitoring India-Pakistan Situation, Hope This Ends Quickly: US Secretary of State Rubio

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 06:14 IST

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he is monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely and hopes this ends quickly.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio (File pic/Reuters)

Hours after India launched Operation Sindoor targeting Pakistans terror infrastructure, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he is monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely and hopes this ends quickly".

Indian armed forces on early Wednesday carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, including in Bahawalpur, a stronghold of the banned Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Recommended Stories

In a post on X, Rubio said, I am monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely. I echo @POTUSs comments earlier today that this hopefully ends quickly and will continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution." National Security Advisor Ajit Doval spoke with Rubio shortly after the strikes" and briefed him on the actions taken, the Indian Embassy in Washington DC said.

I am monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely. I echo @POTUSs comments earlier today that this hopefully ends quickly and will continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution. Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) May 6, 2025

Indias actions have been focused and precise. They were measured, responsible and designed to be non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani civilian, economic or military targets have been hit. Only known terror camps were targeted," a press release from the Embassy of India, Washington DC said.

It said that shortly after the strikes," NSA Doval spoke with Rubio and briefed him on the actions taken." The release said that terrorists killed 26 civilians in Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir on April 22 in a brutal and heinous attack.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

India has credible leads, technical inputs, testimony of the survivors and other evidence pointing towards the clear involvement of Pakistan-based terrorists in this attack," it said.

It was expected that Pakistan would take action against terrorists and the infrastructure that supports them. Instead, during the fortnight that has gone by, Pakistan has indulged in denial and made allegations of false flag operations against India," it added.

Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: May 07, 2025, 06:14 IST
Deliberate Act Of War: Bilawal Bhutto Says Pakistan Reserves Right To Respond

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 18:09 IST

Bilawal Bhutto since the Pahalgam attack has made inflammatory remarks against India and failed to hold Pakistans Army accountable for sheltering and training terrorists.

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari made a series of inflammatory remarks after India held the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance. (IMAGE: REUTERS)

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), condemned Indias counter-terror strikes inside Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir (PoK) and called the attacks on structures housing terrorists a cowardly" act.

Bhutto, who over the past fortnight has engaged in making inflammatory remarks, said the strikes carried out by India are an unprovoked, deliberate act of war".

Recommended Stories

Indias armed forces destroyed nine terrorist infrastructure including that of Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in a 25-minute-long measured" and non-escalatory" missile and drone strike early Wednesday in retaliation to the dastardly terror attack in Pahalgam.

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, chairman of the Pakistan People's Party, describes an Indian missile attack on Pakistani-administered Kashmir as "cowardly".He claims it was "an unprovoked, deliberate act of war by India". Latest: https://t.co/r5B2eLznSn Sky 501 and Freeview 233 pic.twitter.com/aYATiHG1vv  Sky News (@SkyNews) May 7, 2025

Under Operation Sindoor, the Indian military targeted Markaz Taiba of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in Muridke, Markaz Subhan Allah of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in Bahawalpur and Hizbul Mujahideens Mehmoona Joya Facility in Sialkot and LeTs base in Markaz Ahle Hadith in Barnala and its camp in Muzaffarabads Shawai Nalla, military officials said.

His remarks came hours after India launched Operation Sindoor to avenge the deaths of innocent civilians in Kashmirs Pahalgam on April 22.

The PPP leader said that Pakistan reserves the right to respond to the attacks.

Bhutto, whose mother Benazir Bhutto, former Pakistan Prime Minister, was killed in a terrorist attack, made the remarks while speaking to UK broadcaster Sky News.

Over the past two weeks, Pakistan has been on the receiving end of belligerent threats from the Indian government. Pakistan reserves the right under UN charter to respond," Bhutto said.

Bhutto on Friday had said Pakistan has a past with extremist groups and suffered because of this, Pakistan Peoples Party chief Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said while answering a question on Islamabad backing terror outfits.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

However, while speaking to the UK-based broadcaster, he made no mention of those connections.

I dont think that its a secret that Pakistan has a past as far as extremist groups are concerned. And as a result of this, we have suffered. Pakistan has suffered. Weve gone through wave after wave of extremism. We went through the Islamisation and militarisation of our society. But as a result of what we suffered, we also learnt our lessons. Weve gone through internal reforms in order to address this problem, not only for us, but also the concern of the international community," Bhutto, the former foreign minister, said.

About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More

Location : Islamabad, Pakistan

First Published: May 07, 2025, 16:21 IST
'Exercise Restraint': Russia Urges Peaceful Dialogue Between India & Pakistan After Operation Sindoor

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 23:31 IST

India had launched Operation Sindoor targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK in a strong response to the terror attack in Pahalgam

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Russian President Vladimir Putin. (AP file photo)

Russia on Wednesday expressed deep concern at the escalation of military confrontation between India and Pakistan in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack.

We are deeply concerned about the intensifying military confrontation between India and Pakistan after the terrorist attack near the city of Pahalgam," Russia Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova was quoted as saying by state-run news agency TASS.

Recommended Stories

Russia strongly condemns acts of terrorism, opposes any of its manifestations and emphasises the need to unite the efforts of the entire world community to effectively combat this evil, Zakharova said.

We call on the parties involved to exercise restraint in order to prevent further deterioration of the situation in the region.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

We hope that the differences between New Delhi and Islamabad will be resolved through peaceful, political and diplomatic means on a bilateral basis in accordance with the provisions of the Simla Agreement of 1972 and the Lahore Declaration of 1999," the spokesperson said in a statement in the wake of Operation Sindoor.

India launched Operation Sindoor targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in a strong response to the terror attack in Pahalgam. The April 22 attack, carried out by the terror organisation The Resistance Front, killed 26 civilians.

Location : Moscow, Russia

First Published: May 07, 2025, 22:55 IST
From Abbottabads Neptune Spear To Operation Sindoor, Pakistani Forces Caught Off Guard Once Again

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 16:39 IST

Pakistan was unprepared, just like it was in 2011, when the US carried out Operation Neptune Spear to kill Osama bin Laden, in their version of Indias ghus ke maarenge

Osama bin Laden was killed by the US in 2011. (File)

As the visuals of Indias Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) flooded the social media, Pakistani locals were puzzled, but not by the airstrikes.

The tension with India in the wake of the Pahalgam attack on April 22 was no secret and even their leaders had spoken about such a possibility. But even two weeks later, the Pakistani government was completely unprepared, just like it was in 2011, when the United States (US) carried out Operation Neptune Spear to kill Osama bin Laden in Abbottabad, in what was their version of Indias ghus ke maarenge".

Recommended Stories

Look at the current situation in Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/xNFJgHk3uq Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) May 7, 2025

OPERATION SINDOOR: 9 TARGETS, 25 MINUTES

The Indian armed forces struck terrorist camps in Pakistans Punjab and PoK. Four targets were hit in Punjab, where the headquarters of Jaish and Lashkar are located, while five targets were destroyed in PoK, officials said. As many as 21 terror strikes across nine targets were carried out within 25 minutes late Tuesday night, around 1 am to 1.30 am.

ALSO READ | Decoding Modis Law Of Distraction: How India Caught Pakistan Unawares Ahead Of Operation Sindoor

Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhars 10 family members, including his sister, were killed in the Indian strikes inside Pakistans Bahawalpur. The UN-designated terrorists brother-in-law was also among the family members blown up in the strikes.

#WATCH | First reaction from Pakistan, Muridke as eyewitness account of Indias #OperationSindoor against terror targets inside Pakistan.A local says, At around 12:45 in the night, one drone came first, followed by three other drones, and they attacked the mosqueseverything pic.twitter.com/EJ68G8U0nF  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

HOW LADEN WAS KILLED IN 40-MINUTE RAID

On May 2, 2011, the United States conducted Operation Neptune Spear, in which SEAL Team Six shot and killed Osama bin Laden at his Waziristan Haveli in Abbottabad, Pakistan.

Laden, who founded al-Qaeda and masterminded the September 11 attacks, had been the subject of a United States military manhunt since the beginning of the War in Afghanistan, but escaped to Pakistan. Approved by American president Barack Obama and involving two dozen Navy SEALs in two Black Hawks, Operation Neptune Spear was launched from around 120 miles (190 km) away, near the Afghan city of Jalalabad. The raid took 40 minutes, and bin Laden was killed shortly before 1:00 a.m. Pakistan Standard Time.

Three other men, including one of bin Ladens sons, and a woman in the compound were also killed. After the raid, the operatives returned to Afghanistan with Ladens corpse for identification and then flew over 850 miles to the Arabian Sea, where he was buried in accordance with Islamic tradition. Al-Qaeda confirmed bin Ladens death through posts made on militant websites on May 6, and vowed to avenge his killing.

PAKISTAN CAUGHT NAPPING AGAIN

After the killing of 26 in Kashmirs Pahalgam, Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi repeatedly warned that every terrorist, their handlers and backers would be tracked and punished". Home Minister Amit Shah, too, had warned: Chun chun ke jawaab denge".

Pakistans authorities, too, made statements about a possible attack from India.

Barely 24 hours before the airstrikes, Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif had said, If India dares to attack Pakistan and Pakistans existence comes under threat, nobody will survive in this world." Asif had also likened the situation to the Israeli military offensive in Gaza, saying that the same mentality is being applied by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his allies. If this were to happen to us if our existence is in danger, then either we survive, or no one does," he added.

Their Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, had said after the closed-door UNSC meeting that while Pakistan does not seek confrontation, Islamabad was fully prepared to defend our sovereignty and territorial integrity".

Asif had also sought an investigation into the Pahalgam attack by Russia, China and other Western countries and said that a military incursion by neighbouring India was imminent".

As India paused the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in one of the diplomatic measures after Pahalgam, Pakistan minister Hanif Abbasi warned that Islamabads stockpile  Ghori, Shaheen, and Ghaznavi missiles along with 130 nuclear warheads  has been kept only for India."

But caught unawares after the attack, their tone changed. Desperate to protect his image, PM Shehbaz Sharif vowed a response".

Major General Ahmed Sharif, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), went a step further to hide the embarrassment. Pakistan will respond to it at a time and place of its own choosing. It will not go unanswered. The temporary pleasure of India will be replaced by enduring grief," he said.

ALSO READ | Operation Sindoor Against Pakistan Was Not Balakot 2.0: The Pahalgam Retaliation Was Bigger & Better

Asif, however, took a complete U-turn. This has been initiated by India. If India is ready to back down, they have taken the initiative, we have just responded. We have been saying this that we will never initiate anything hostile towards India. But if we are attacked, we will respond. If India backs down, we will definitely wrap up these things. But as long as we are under fire, we have to respond," Asif told a news channel.

In a post, it is falsely claimed that the Pakistan Army has destroyed two Indian Army posts using mortars and gunfire along the LoC, inflicting heavy casualties.#PIBFactCheck The video shared is old and NOT from India. The video is from sectarian clashes that took place in pic.twitter.com/h0c2uDD0j6  PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) April 27, 2025

NEXT STOP: FAKE NEWS FACTORY

When the remarks failed to assuage their country, Pakistan turned to the fake news factory, claiming Pakistan Army had destroyed two Indian Army posts using mortars and gunfire along the LoC, inflicting heavy casualties.

But Indias Press Information Bureau (PIB) was quick to debunk it. The video shared is old and NOT from India. The video is from sectarian clashes that took place in the year 2024, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan," PIB in its fact-checked post stated.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

A photo of the Pakistani Armys retaliation, which is going viral on social media platforms, is also falsely claimed" and is from a fire in Northern Ireland in March 2025. In addition to this, the report of the Indian Brigade Headquarters destroyed by Pakistan is also fake, the PIB stated.

Several U-turns and face-saving measures later, too, Pakistan could barely undo the damage, both to the terror sites and its image.

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: May 07, 2025, 14:33 IST
I Want To See Them Stop: Donald Trump Urges India, Pakistan 'To Work It Out' As Tensions Soar

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 23:52 IST

Trump's remarks came after India launched a series of targeted precision strikes under Operation Sindoor against terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

US President Donald Trump (Image: X)

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday responded to the escalating situation between India and Pakistan and urged both the nations to step back and avoid further conflict.

He further offered to mediate between New Delhi and Islamabad saying, if I can do anything to help, I will be there."

Recommended Stories

Oh its so terrible. My position is I get along with both. I know both very well and I want to see them work it out. I want to see them stop and hopefully they can stop now. They have gone tit for tat so hopefully they can stop now. I know them both, we get along with both the countries very well. Good relationships with both and I want to see it stop. And If I can do anything to help I will be there," Trump said in response to a question on the war between India and Pakistan.

Earlier in the day, Trump said that the two countries have a long history of conflict, going back decades. He said he hopes the situation settles down quickly.

Trumps remarks came after India launched a series of targeted precision strikes under Operation Sindoor against terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on the intervening night of Tuesday-Wednesday, almost a fortnight after the Pahalgam terror attack.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Within a tightly coordinated 24-minute window, India targeted 21 terror camps linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) across nine locations, four in Pakistan and five in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). The targets were not just aimed at avenging the Pahalgam attack, but also targeting terror sites where other such attacks were planned.

The operation marks a significant escalation in Indias counter-terror strategy following the Pahalgam attack that claimed the lives of 26 civilians, including a Nepali national.

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 : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: May 07, 2025, 23:41 IST
Operation Sindoor: How World Media Covered India's Retaliation Of Pahalgam Terror Attack

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 09:44 IST

Operation Sindoor: India struck terrorist camps deep inside Pakistan and PoK early Wednesday, avenging the Pahalgam terror attack.

Operation Sindoor: How world media covered India's strike? (AP Image)

As Indian armed forces targeted terrorist camps in Pakistan and PoK early Wednesday, Indias retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack was at the heart of the global media coverage, including in the West.

While some foreign media outlets bought into Pakistans false narrative of shooting down the Indian fighter jets, which never crossed the Line of Control this time, unlike during the Balakot airstrikes, others reported the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.

Recommended Stories

Here are some of the headlines of the world media in their coverage of Indias strike against terror camps  4 in Pakistan and 5 in PoK  including the Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba headquarters, under Operation Sindoor.

CNN: India strikes Pakistan in wake of Kashmir massacre. Pakistan says 5 Indian planes downed

Sky News: Pakistan shoots down Indian jets  after India fires missiles on terrorist camps

NYT: India Strikes Pakistan Two Weeks After Terrorist Attack

BBC: India launches air strikes on Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir

AP: India fires missiles into Pakistani territory in what Islambad calls act of war

Reuters: India strikes Pakistan over Kashmir tourist killings

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

At least 17 terrorists were killed while over 60 were injured in the precision strikes by the Indian armed forces into Pakistan and PoK. Pakistan attempted to peddle fake news that it downed Indian fighter jets, as the Indian fighter planes never crossed the LoC.

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: May 07, 2025, 09:31 IST
India Rejects Pakistan FM Ishaq Dar's Claim Of NSA-level Talks Amid Rising Tensions

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 08, 2025, 18:58 IST

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated he had no information regarding any contact between the two countries' NSAs

India struck terror hideouts in Pakistan as part of 'Operation Sindoor' on May 7. (Reuters)

India on Thursday rejected claims made by Pakistans Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, that the National Security Advisers (NSAs) of New Delhi and Islamabad had spoken by phone amid escalating tensions between the two countries.

Dar confirmed the development to Turkish broadcaster TRT World on Wednesday but did not provide details of the discussions between Indias Ajit Doval and Pakistans Asim Malik.

Recommended Stories

According to TRTs report, the call allegedly took place a day after India carried out targeted military strikes on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under Operation Sindoor, in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22.

However, India dismissed these claims in its response. At a media briefing, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that he had no information regarding any contact between the two countries NSAs.

India-Pakistan Tensions Escalates

Tensions in the subcontinent spiralled following the precision strikes, which took place two weeks after three terrorists  two of them from Pakistan and linked to an LeT affiliate  killed 25 tourists and a local pony handler in a brazen attack in Kashmirs Pahalgam.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Photos and videos of Indias late-night retaliation against terror infrastructure went viral on social media on Wednesday. India said its strikes were successful and released videos of the campaign, dubbed Operation Sindoor. Pakistan, without much evidence, said it thwarted the Indian campaign. And throughout the day, Indian authorities junked several Pakistani claims as disinformation and fake news.

But Islamabad gradually upped the rhetoric and said it had the right to retaliate for what it called Indias aggression". New Delhi, however, categorically said no civilian or military site was hit in their operation, and sites linked to the JeM and LeT, as well as the Hizbul Mujahideen group, were carefully selected and targeted.

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 : Islamabad, Pakistan

First Published: May 08, 2025, 01:23 IST
Pakistan restores flight operations after Indian overnight strikes

Xinhua) 16:48, May 07, 2025

ISLAMABAD, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Pakistan on Wednesday restored flight operations in major cities after India attacked civilian settlements in the country.

Earlier, the CAA issued a notification, restricting airspace access for 48 hours, considering the security situation in the country.

The CAA advised travelers to remain vigilant and follow official airline communications to avoid inconvenience, saying the final decision regarding flight schedules and routing remains with individual airlines.

"In view of the evolving regional situation, passengers are advised to stay in contact with their respective airlines for updated information regarding their flights," the CAA said.

Officials from Pakistan Airports Authority told Xinhua that flight operations at major airports returned to normal with both domestic and international flights being operated at all major airports, including Allama Iqbal International Airport Lahore, Jinnah International Airport Karachi and Islamabad International Airport.

At least 26 people have been killed and 46 others injured after India carried out strikes on six civilian settlements in Pakistan, Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations, the media wing of the Pakistani army, confirmed during a press briefing on Wednesday.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
Pakistan Army Moving To Battle-Ready Positions In Lahore After India's Operation Sindoor: Sources

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Aveek Banerjee



Last Updated: May 08, 2025, 02:06 IST

India launched a series of targeted precision strikes under Operation Sindoor against terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack.

Pakistan Army soldiers examine a building damaged by a suspected Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad, PoK. (PTI)

Pakistans Army has been asked to move to battle-ready positions in Lahore, according to sources, hours after India launched cross-border strikes targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as part of Operation Sindoor.

Sources indicated that there were some reservations among Pakistans political class to carry on with the fight against India. Pakistani politician and PMs Special Assistant Rana Sanaullah was earlier criticised for calling for a brief pause in fighting.

Recommended Stories

Army Areas In Pakistan Vacated

Earlier, CNN-News18 had reported that Army areas in Kasur, Bahalwnagar, Sialkot, Shekhuoura and Narwal of Punjab province had been vacated and people were asked to move back to safe places. Complete blackout was reported in several Army areas.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir visited the Air Force headquarters, hours after India launched precision strikes under Operation Sindoor, for which Islamabad has vowed retaliation.

Operation Sindoor: Follow Live Updates Here

India launched a series of targeted precision strikes under Operation Sindoor against terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on the intervening night of Tuesday-Wednesday, in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22.

Nine terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir were targeted in the strikes. However, no Pakistani military facilities were hit, reflecting Indias calibrated and non-escalatory approach.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warned India that it will have to pay for the Operation Sindoor strikes on his country, claiming that the attack left 26 civilians dead. We will exact revenge for every drop of Pakistani blood," he said during an address to the nation.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Sharif said terrorism has affected Pakistan the most and the citizens of the country should be united to fight the enemy. He called Indias move to strike terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) speculation that their mission is about eradicating terrorism".

The precision strikes took place two weeks after three terrorists  two of them from Pakistan and linked to an LeT affiliate  killed 26 people in a brazen attack in Kashmirs Pahalgam.

About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

Location : Lahore, Pakistan

First Published: May 08, 2025, 01:57 IST
Pakistan Backtracks: Minister Khawaja Asif Says Will Stand Down If India Halts Operations

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 14:10 IST

After Operation Sindoor, Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, who on Tuesday had said either we survive or no one does", said they were ready to refrain from further action

Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif says Pak ready to restrain (Reuters Image)

Hours after Indias precision strikes in Pakistan and PoK, the countrys Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, who on Tuesday had said either we survive or no one does", said they were ready to refrain from further action if India halts its operations on the border.

The remarks came as Islamabad gasped for breath after four targets in Pakistans Punjab and five in PoK, were blown up by the Indian military non-contact strikes late at night as New Delhi avenged the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 were killed.

Recommended Stories

This has been initiated by India. If India is ready to back down, they have taken the initiative, we have just responded. We have been saying this that we will never initiate anything hostile towards India. But if we are attacked, we will respond. If India backs down, we will definitely wrap up these things. But as long as we are under fire, we have to respond," Asif told a news channel.

His remarks show another backtrack by Pakistan, whose Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, had said after the closed-door UNSC meeting that while Pakistan does not seek confrontation, Islamabad was fully prepared to defend our sovereignty and territorial integrity".

Pakistans efforts to internationlise the Pahalgam issue failed miserably. The UNSC did not issue a statement on the meeting and instead asked tough questions of Islamabad over the existence of terrorism on its soil.

India Warns Pakistan Against Any Misadventure

Addressing a press briefing, the government warned Pakistan against any misadventure that may escalate the situation.

No military establishment was targeted, and there are no reports of civilian casualties. It must be said that the Indian armed forces are fully prepared to respond to a Pakistani misadventure, if any, that will escalate the situation," said Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who addressed a joint press conference with Col Sofiya Qureshi, both of who represented the armed forces, with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, who spoke on behalf of the government.

Vikram Misri, Indias Foreign Secretary, while addressing the media, said, Our intelligence agencies monitoring terrorist activities have indicated that there could be more attacks on India, and it was felt essential to both stop and tackle them. India exercised its right to respond to deter such more cross-border terrorism Our actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible. They focused on dismantling terrorists infrastructure."

The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family. The family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said, adding, The audacity of terroriststelling victims families to go tell your Modi" was a pathetic attempt to intimidate India. Operation Sindoor is Indias response to such cowardly acts."

#BreakingNews | The audacity of terroriststelling victims families to go tell your Modi" is a pathetic attempt to intimidate India. Operation Sindoor is Indias response to such cowardly acts: Vikram Misri#OperationSindoor #IndiaPakistanWar #IndianArmyPressConference pic.twitter.com/Obbw62F8Go News18 (@CNNnews18) May 7, 2025

On Tuesday, Asif had said, If India dares to attack Pakistan and Pakistans existence comes under threat, nobody will survive in this world."

Asif had also likened the situation to the Israeli military offensive in Gaza, saying that the same mentality is being applied by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his allies. If this were to happen to us if our existence is in danger, then either we survive, or no one does," he added.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Earlier, Asif warned that New Delhi could launch a military strike at any moment along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir. There are reports that India may strike at any point along the LoC New Delhi will be given a befitting reply," he told reporters in Islamabad.

In the early morning strike called Operation Sindoor, India targeted Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Sialkot, Barnala and Bahawalpur in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). These facilities trained terrorists and were also instrumental in the infiltration of Lashkar, Hizbul and JeM terrorists into India.

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 : Islamabad, Pakistan

First Published: May 07, 2025, 10:22 IST
Pakistan Summons Indian Diplomat To Protest Strikes, Says It Has The Right To Respond

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 13:04 IST

Pakistan's action came after India launched targeted strikes on terror camps at nine locations across Pakistan and PoK.

Pakistani residents watch as India strikes a terrorist stronghold in Bahawalpur under Operation Sindoor. (IMAGE: SOURCED)

Pakistan on Wednesday summoned an Indian Diplomat and handed over a demarche to him, showing protest against the Indian strikes on terror camps at nine locations across Pakistan and PoK. The strikes were carried out nearly two weeks after the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people  25 Tourists and one local  were killed.

India precisely targeted terror camps in Pakistan and PoK that were being used by terror outfits like Laskar-e-Toiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed for training terrorists and as hideouts. Sources said the strikes were carefully calibrated, with precision targeting and were monitored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself.

Recommended Stories

Meanwhile, Pakistan Information Minister Ataullah Tarar has responded, saying that Pakistan has right to respond against Indias strikes". He further warned India against Pakistans action and said that they will respond."

Act of War: Pakistan PM On Indian Missile Strikes, Vows To Respond

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Earlier in the morning, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his first reaction, termed Indias action as an act of war" and vowed to respond, saying, Pakistan has every right to respond forcefully".

The entire nation stands with the Pakistani armed forces, and the morale and spirit of the entire Pakistani nation are high. The Pakistani nation and the Pakistani armed forces know how to deal with the enemy. We will never allow the enemy to succeed in their nefarious goals," Sharif added.

About the Author Mahima Joshi Mahima Joshi, Sub-Editor at News18.com, works with the India and Breaking team. Covering national stories and bringing breaking news to the table are her forte. She is deeply interested in Indian politics and a... Read More Mahima Joshi, Sub-Editor at News18.com, works with the India and Breaking team. Covering national stories and bringing breaking news to the table are her forte. She is deeply interested in Indian politics and a... Read More

Location : Islamabad, Pakistan

First Published: May 07, 2025, 12:31 IST
Pakistan's Govt Authorises Army To Respond To India's 'Operation Sindoor' Strikes

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 14:41 IST

The Pakistani government has reportedly authorised the armed forces to respond to India's military strikes, which were carried out in retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif | REUTERS Image

Pakistans government has reportedly authorised its Army to respond to Indias military strikes under Operation Sindoor, which targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on the intervening night of Tuesday-Wednesday.

India launched a series of targeted precision strikes under Operation Sindoor against terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on the intervening night of Tuesday-Wednesday, almost a fortnight after the Pahalgam terror attack.

Recommended Stories

According to a press release, Pakistans National Security Committee was convened by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, where it called Indias strikes an unprovoked, cowardly and unlawful act of war."

Pakistan has been emphatically rejecting Indian allegations claiming the presence of terrorist camps on its territory. It would also be recalled that immediately after 22 April 2025, Pakistan made a sincere offer for a credible, transparent and neutral investigation, which unfortunately was not accepted," it said.

Accusing India of targeting civilian areas, the government said Pakistan reserves the right to respond, in self-defence, at a time, place, and manner of its choosing". It said the Armed Forces of Pakistan have duly been authorised to undertake corresponding actions in this regard".

Pakistan has denied responsibility for the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 in Jammu and Kashmir, which left 26 tourists dead, even as an offshoot group of the Pakistan-backed Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) took responsibility for the dastardly attack.

Operation Sindoor: Follow Live Updates Here

Nine terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir were targeted in Indias military strikes. However, no Pakistani military facilities were hit, reflecting Indias calibrated and non-escalatory approach. Indian Army sources confirmed that the objective was to dismantle launchpads and camps used by terror groups operating from across the Line of Control (LoC).

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

After the strikes, Pakistan summoned an Indian Diplomat and handed over a demarche to him, showing protest against the Indian strikes on terror camps at nine locations across Pakistan and PoK. Pakistan Information Minister Ataullah Tarar has responded, saying that Pakistan has right to respond against Indias strikes". He further warned India against Pakistans action and said that they will respond."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday briefed his cabinet colleagues about Indias retaliatory strikes against terror camps in Pakistan and PoK under Operation Sindoor, calling it a moment of pride for all of us". Politicians across party lines also hailed the Indian Armys response.

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 : Islamabad, Pakistan

First Published: May 07, 2025, 14:23 IST
'Regrettable': China Reacts To India's Operation Sindoor, Says It Opposes All Forms Of Terrorism

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 14:16 IST

A spokesperson from China's foreign ministry said Beijing opposes all forms of terrorism

China President Xi Jinping

China on Wednesday said it finds Indias military operation against terrorists in Pakistan regrettable" while calling for restraint from both countries.

A spokesperson from Chinas foreign ministry said Beijing opposes all forms of terrorism.

Recommended Stories

China finds Indias military operation early this morning regrettable. We are concerned about the ongoing situation. India and Pakistan are and will always be each others neighbours. Theyre both Chinas neighbours as well. China opposes all forms of terrorism. We urge both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, remain calm, exercise restraint and refrain from taking actions that may further complicate the situation," the spokesperson said.

Chinese Envoy Meets Pakistan Foreign Minister After Indian Strike

Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong met Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who said that Pakistan is resolved to protect its territorial integrity at all costs".

He underscored Pakistans firm resolve to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity at all costs. The two sides exchanged views on regional security developments and agreed to maintain close coordination and communication across all relevant areas," a statement said.

India launched strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in what is seen as a retaliatory move to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack.

Since the Pahalgam terrorist attack, China, Pakistans ironclad ally", while condemning it, has called for restraint, besides a fair and swift investigation into the attack. The two countries also stepped up diplomatic contacts during the past few days.

While Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar called Chinas top diplomat Wang Yi over the phone and briefed him on April 27. Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

In his talks with Dar, Wang while stating that China is closely following the developments stressing that combating terrorism is a shared responsibility of the whole world said China supports an impartial investigation as soon as possible, as the conflict does not serve the fundamental interests of either India or Pakistan, nor does it contribute to regional peace and stability.

As an ironclad friend and an all-weather strategic cooperative partner, China fully understands Pakistans legitimate security concerns and supports Pakistan in safeguarding its sovereignty and security interests", Wang said.

About the Author Saurabh Verma Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19

Location : Beijing, China

First Published: May 07, 2025, 09:43 IST
Who Is Masood Azhar, Jaish-e-Mohammed Chief Who Was Let Off After IC-814 Hijacking?

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: May 07, 2025, 13:49 IST

Masood Azhar, the founder of Jaish-e-Mohammed, was released by India in 1999 after the hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight 814. The JeM is responsible for several terror attacks.

Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar (PTI/File)

Operation Sindoor: India carried out military strikes as part of Operation Sindoor against terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which killed 10 family members of Jaish-e-Mohammed Chief Masood Azhar.

Masood Azhar released a statement, admitting that 10 of his family members were killed in the Indian strikes. Their funeral will take place at Bahawalpur in Pakistans Punjab.

Recommended Stories

Terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taibas headquarters in Muridke and designated terrorist and Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhars madrassa were among the nine sites India struck on Wednesday as India retaliated to Pahalgam attacks by launching Operation Sindoor.

Track Live Updates of Operation Sindoor

Who Is Masood Azhar?

Masood Azhar is a UN-proscribed terrorist who is the founder and leader of the Pakistan-based terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), which was responsible for the Pulwama terror attack where 40 Indian soldiers were killed, bringing the neighbours to the brink of war.

Azhar was born in Bahawalpur in 1968 and was sent to a madrasa in Karachi after completing his Standard 8 examination. The madrasa was affiliated with Pakistani jihadist groups, from where Azhar graduated in 1989. He joined the Soviet-Afghan war and also enlisted to fight for Harkat-ul-Mujahideen, but failed to complete his training due to poor physique".

As militancy grew in Jammu and Kashmir, Azhar was tasked with merging two jihadist groups  Harkat-ul-Jihad Islami and Harkat-ul-Mujahideen into the Harkat-ul-Ansar (HuA). He became the general secretary of the group and recruited followers from several countries, including the United Kingdom.

ALSO READ: Pakistan Backtracks: Minister Khawaja Asif Says Will Stand Down If India Halts Operations

Arrest And Release In India

Azhar arrived in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir in 1994 under a fake identity to meet with the cadre, when Indian security forces arrested him. He was imprisoned in Tihar Jail in Delhi and was later taken to Kot Balwal Jail in Jammu. HuA commander Sajjad Afghani was killed in a failed attempt to help Azhar out of prison.

Four years later, in December 1999, an Indian Airlines Flight 814 (IC-814) carrying 179 passengers and 11 crew members was en route from Kathmandu to Delhi, when it was hijacked by five members of the Harkat-ul-Mujahideen and taken to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.

The plane which was hijacked was then rerouted towards Pakistan, instead of Delhi. Since it did not have enough fuel, it landed at Amritsar. When there was delay in Amritsar, the hijackers stabbed two people with knives. One of them succumbed to his injuries inside the plane.

ALSO READ: Beyond Pahalgam: How Operation Sindoor Avenged Pulwama, Pathankot, Mumbai And More

Though the hijackers were ready to release some women and children, the Pakistani authorities did not give permission. The plane was refueled at Lahore and then took off for Kabul. Since there was no facility to land at Kabul at night, the plane was again diverted towards Dubai. A total of 27 passengers, which included children and women, were released in exchange for fuel.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

The Harkat-ul-Mujahideen demanded the then-Atal Bihari Vajpayee government to release Mazood Azhar, Ahmed Zargar, and Sheikh Ahmed Umar in exchange for the hostages. The then Foreign Minister, Jaswant Singh, escorted these terrorists to Kandahar, bringing an end to the eight-day hijack.

After his release, Azhar founded JeM, which was responsible for several attacks, including the Parliament bombing in 2001 and the Pathankot attack in 2016. JeM was officially banned in Pakistan after the 2001 attack, but it is still operating under the shadows. The group even attempted to assassinate then-Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf in 2003.

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: May 07, 2025, 13:27 IST
A massive wave of arrests has gone down in Colombia, with authorities there claiming they've detained more than 200 members of the nation's largest drug cartel. On Monday, armed forces chief Francisco Cubides held a presser in which he disclosed that 217 members of the Gulf Clan have been arrested since April 15, while 15 suspected drug traffickers had been shot dead during various raids, including a cartel commander, per CBS News .

The arrests were partly in response to the Gulf Clan's supposed "pistol plan" to "systematically murder" Colombian security forces, in the words of Colombian President Gustavo Petro. The country's interior minister, Armando Benedetti, said at a weekly meeting of government Cabinet members that the cartel would shell out up to $3,500 to recruits to take out members of law enforcement. At least 16 police officers and five soldiers have been murdered so far, per CBS; RFI puts the total number at closer to 35.

Cubides says that the law enforcement raids also scooped up 6.8 tons of drugs, more than 120 firearms, and 15,000-plus rounds of ammo. RFI notes that the cartel's strategy "is reminiscent of the one used by drug trafficker Pablo Escobar in the 1990s, when he paid for each agent killed in his frontal assault on the state." Cubides, meanwhile, says it's a "desperate response" due to the "overwhelming" setbacks the group has suffered against police and the military in the northern and western parts of Colombia, per CBS.

story continues below

The Gulf Clan, an organization with paramilitary roots that's been designated a foreign terror group by the US and calls itself the Gaitanista Army of Colombia, has only grown stronger in recent years under Petro's purview, the nation's defense minister, Pedro Sanchez, recently conceded to AFP. Per the Latin Times, Colombian authorities have recently stepped up their efforts against the cartel, including with airstrikes.
President Trump complained once again about the US "subsidizing" Canada in a Truth Social post before his meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney on Tuesdaybut both men sounded upbeat about US-Canada relations after the meeting. At a press conference at the Canadian embassy, Carney said that after "wide-ranging" discussions, he felt Trump was "willing to negotiate" and forge a new trade deal with Canada, the BBC reports. He said the White House meeting marked the "end of the beginning of a process" of redefining Canada's relationship with the US. "I feel better about the relations in many respects," he said. There will be "zigs and zagsdifficult aspects to it", he said of trade talks. "But the prospect is there."

51st state. Carney said that during their private meeting, he asked Trump to stop making remarks about Canada becoming the 51st state, though he didn't share the president's response. Asked what he was thinking when Trump referred to the border as artificial, Carney said, "I'm glad that you couldn't tell what was going through my mind," the CBC reports.
Peru's president Dina Boluarte has suspended gold mining for 30 days and imposed a 12-hour curfew in the northern province of Pataz after 13 contracted gold mine workers were found killed inside a tunnel. The workers, employed by a local firm, were discovered by police after reportedly being held captive and tortured for over a week. Video footage allegedly shows the captors shooting the miners at close range, the Guardian reports. The government said the armed forces will take control of the area, but offered few details on how the mining suspension would be enforced.

The BBC reports that the workers were kidnapped by a gang after they were sent to confront illegal gold miners in the area. Boluarte's move comes amid criticism over what some call a slow and insufficient government response to rising violence, tied to illegal mining operations in the country's gold-rich regions. Illegal mining has surged across Peru, driven by soaring international gold prices, currently around $3,500 per ounce. Criminal activity linked to the trade is also on the rise: Peru's homicide rate jumped nearly 36% in 2024 compared to the previous year.

Authorities say illegal mining is now Peru's most profitable criminal enterprise, accounting for 60% of all laundered assets in the country over the last decade. Areas like La Libertad, home to the La Poderosa mine, where the workers were killed, have been under a state of emergency for more than two years due to persistent violence. The La Poderosa Mining company said miners' deaths bring the number of workers killed by gangs in Pataz to 39. "The spiral of uncontrolled violence in Pataz is occurring despite the declaration of a state of emergency and the presence of a large police contingent which, unfortunately, has not been able to halt the deterioration of security conditions in the area," the company said.
President Trump said Tuesday that three hostages held by Hamas in Gaza have died, leaving only 21 believed to be still living. "As of today, it's 21, three have died," Trump said of the hostages, noting until recently it had been 24 people believed to be living. He did not elaborate on the identities of those now believed to be dead, nor how he had come to learn of their deaths, the AP reports. "There's 21, plus a lot of dead bodies," Trump said.
President Trump is planning to rename another gulf, insiders say. The president is set to announce during his upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia that the United States will begin calling the Persian Gulf either the Arabian Gulf or the Gulf of Arabia, according to two US officials who spoke to the AP on Tuesday on condition of anonymity. Arab nations, which already call it the Arabian Gulf, have advocated for the name change, while Iran, formerly Persia, unsurprisingly prefers Persian Gulf, the name that has been used for centuries.

The US military has been calling the body of water, which sits between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula, the Arabian Gulf for years, the AP notes. Iran threatened to sue Google over a Google Maps change in 2012. In 2017, Iranian officials criticized Trump for calling it the Arabian Gulf. "Everyone knew Trump's friendship was for sale to the highest bidder. We now know that his geography is, too," said Javad Zarif, then the country's foreign minister. As with Trump's renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America, other countries aren't obliged to go along with whatever the US decides to call the body of water. Trump departs for Saudi Arabia next week on a trip that will include visits to two other Gulf countries: Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
A 5-year-old bear that was a member of a well-known and beloved grizzly family in Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park died after he was hit by a vehicle, the same fate that befell his mother late last year, wildlife officials said Tuesday, per the AP . Park rangers found the body of the male bear, known as Grizzly No. 1058, about 125 yards from Highway 26 near the Buffalo Fork River on Tuesday. The bear was one of four cubs that emerged in May 2020 with their mother, Grizzly No. 399, who was often called the world's most famous grizzly bear.

Grizzly No. 399, who was beloved for decades by countless tourists, biologists, and professional wildlife photographers, was hit and killed by a vehicle in October on a highway south of Jackson, Wyoming. Park officials used wildlife tags to confirm the relationship between the two bears. Grizzly No. 1058 had been seen occasionally in the park since he was weaned in 2022, but no sightings of him had been reported this spring. After he was hit by the vehicle, he made his way to a patch of willows, where he died. Park officials said Tuesday he may have been dead for several days before his body was found.

At 28 years old, No. 399 was the oldest known reproducing female grizzly in the Yellowstone ecosystem. Each spring, wildlife enthusiasts eagerly awaited her emergence from her den to see how many cubs she had birthed over the winterthen quickly shared the news online. The bear had 18 known cubs in eight litters over the years, including the litter of four in 2020. She stood around 7 feet tall and weighed about 400 pounds. The driver who struck and killed No. 399 was not speeding, and the bear's death was ruled an accident. Park officials have not released any additional details about the crash that killed No. 1058.
At least eight people were killed and dozens more injured Wednesday amid India's missile attack in the disputed region of Kashmir, though details are still developing. India fired missiles over the border into Pakistani-controlled territory, and Indian and Pakistani forces reportedly exchanged heavy artillery fire after that. The Guardian cites a local Indian government official who said eight Indians had been killed and 29 wounded in a border town, though the newspaper notes it's not clear whether that was in addition to the three deaths initially reported. Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal cites a Pakistani army spokesperson saying at least eight civilians have been killed and 35 injured, but those details were similarly hazy.
Dangling over the side of a bridge, a driver in Kentucky was sure he was minutes from death. In a 911 call on Sunday morning, he told the dispatcher to give the recording of his voice to his family in case he didn't survive. "Why do I got to die tonight?" the driver continued, per the Louisville Courier Journal . "I'm just hanging over the bridge, I don't want to die." Looking at the scene, it's easy to understand his fear. The man had been driving a tractor trailer across Louisville's Kennedy Memorial Bridge when he lost control, triggering a jackknife.

The trailer ultimately remained on the bridge, but the truck cab was left hanging over the side. The driver noted he was scared even to move. For nearly 20 minutes, 911 dispatcher Martyna Wohner tried to assure the man a rescue was in the works. "They're going to get you out. You're going to be OK," she said. "Is it even possible? You don't know," the driver responded, per the Courier Journal. "He kept asking me, like, 'Should I jump out?' I was like, 'No.' He was just ready to get out of the truck. He was so scared," Wohner tells WDRB.

Louisville Fire Chief Brian O'Neill described the rescue operation on a six-lane section of the 1-65 as "fundamentally dangerous." The department first stabilized the truck with chains before lowering a firefighter into the cab with ropes. The firefighter then fitted the driver into a harness so both could be hoisted out. Video of the rescue shows the driver was all smiles as he was pulled from the dangling cab. He then gave a thumbs up as he was lowered to the ground, about 30 minutes after first responders arrived on the scene.
A New York profile on Sen. John Fetterman suggesting he's not doing well physically or mentally and may not be fit to continue serving in office is still causing a buzz, and now the Pennsylvania Democrat is pushing back. Fetterman, who had a stroke in 2022 and was treated for depression the year after that, slams the article, calling it a "one-source hit piece." "It involved maybe two or three ... anonymous disgruntled staffers saying just absolute false things," he tells CNN . Fetterman also says it's "outrageous" that the "incredibly invasive" article, which included an interview with former chief of staff Adam Jentleson, hinted he may have mental health issues beyond his depression, and he denies he's not taking his meds or checking in regularly with his doctors.

"It's like ... someone ... was trying to accumulate my medical records and leak those things that's part of this weird grudge for this hit piece," he says, adding that his doctors think he's doing "great." "If you're really concerned about someone, you could say, hey, let's sit down. Can we talk?" he says of Jentleson. CNN notes that "there is already intense interest in primarying Fetterman, and questions over his fitness to serve could amplify that effort."

Per NBC News, some of Fetterman's Democratic colleagues are already rushing to his defense. "He's doing a good job, and he's a good legislator," Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer says. Sen. Peter Welch calls Fetterman "a special talent in our party" and vows to lend his continued support. Social media and the pundits, however, weren't quite so supportive, per the Independent. "He needs to resign," says the Bulwark's Jonathan Last, a longtime Fetterman fan. Rotimi Adeoye, a Democratic operative out of Philly, agrees, saying that Pennsylvania Democrats "need a robust primary."

story continues below

"Someone clearly still struggling with their mental health shouldn't be in such a high-stakes role," Adeoye says. "The only solution is political: Fetterman should resign." At any rate, Fetterman says "of course" he'll be serving out the remaining four years of his Senate term, though he won't commit to running for reelection in 2028. As for Jentleson, Fetterman's former chief of staff tells CNN, "I stand by what I said, and I hope he gets the help he needs."
|

Biden on Trump So Far: 'What the Hell's Going On Here?'

Former president calls Trump's moves on Ukraine 'appeasement' of Russia, talks dropping out of race
UPDATE

May 8, 2025 2:00 AM CDT

Following a report that the Trump administration was planning to deport migrants to Libya, some migrants have indeed been told that's where they're being sentdespite the fact that they're not from Libya, and the North African nation has a history of human rights violations against migrants. Immigration attorneys took the matter to court, and a judge on Wednesday ruled that the migrants cannot be removed to Libya before having first had a "meaningful opportunity" to argue their case in court, the AP reports. The Trump administration has deported people to El Salvador, Panama, and Costa Rica who were not citizens of those countries, and there are also reports of migrants being told they're going to be sent to Saudi Arabia.

May 7, 2025 10:10 AM CDT

The Trump administration may be preparing to send migrants to Libya on US military planes, unnamed US officials tells Reuters and the New York Times. Two officials Reuters spoke with said the flights could occur as soon as Wednesday; no details regarding the possible number of migrants or their nationalities were shared. CBS News, which reports the same by way of its sources, adds that it's unclear whether anyone deported to Libya would be detained by authorities there upon arrival.
Police in Springfield Township, Ohio, say a woman was allowed to have the raccoon they found in her vehicle, but it was the meth pipe the animal was holding that got her in trouble. In a Facebook post describing a "strange incident on patrol" on Monday, the police department said things took "an unusual turn" after driver Victoria Vidal was stopped for having an active warrant and a suspended driver's license. Police said Vidal was detained without incident, but when an officer "returned to the vehicle, he observed a raccoon named 'Chewy' sitting in the driver's seat with a meth pipe in its mouth."

"Chewy had somehow gotten hold of a glass methamphetamine pipe, leading officers to further inspect the vehicle," said police, who released bodycam footage of the bizarre encounter. Police said they found a "bulk amount of methamphetamine" in the vehicle, along with crack cocaine and three used glass meth pipes, ABC News reports. Vidal, 55, was charged with multiple drug offenses before she was turned over to police in Cuyahoga Falls on the active warrant, which was also drug-related.

Police said Chewy was unharmed, and authorities determined that Vidal had "the proper paperwork and documentation" to own the animal. People in Ohio are allowed to have pet raccoons, but permits are required, CBS News notes. "While our officers are trained to expect the unexpected, finding a raccoon holding a meth pipe is a first!" police said. "No raccoons were hurt or injured in this incident."
Days after the US and China again took shots at each other over the origin of COVID-19, researchers have published a genetic study with new reasons to think it was distributed by wildlife. The team compared the development of the earlier SARS epidemic, which killed 774 people in 33 countries, to COVID's and found significant parallels, the New York Times reports. "In my mind, they are extraordinarily similar," said Jonathan Pekar, an evolutionary virologist at the University of Edinburgh who was one of the study's authors. They pointed to the travel time the virus requires.

The team analyzed the genomes of the two coronaviruses, along with 248 related coronaviruses in bats and other mammals. Both coronaviruses jumped from bats to wild mammals in southwestern China. When wildlife traders took the infected animals to city markets hundreds of miles away, the virus made the leap to humans. It's highly unlikely the viruses could have traveled to Central China in a few years in bats alone, says the study, which was published Wednesday in Science Direct. The Trump administration's budget proposal released Friday called the theory that the coronavirus leaked from a lab in Wuhan confirmed, per the Times; China then released a white paper denying that and saying maybe it began in the US.

Earlier studies have said that SARS-CoV-1 probably was carried so far by infected palm civets or raccoon dogs, both of which are traded for their fur and meat. The new study makes the strongest case yet that SARS-CoV-2 reached humans in a similar way, per UC San Diego Today. Another of the study's authors had a caution. "When you sell wildlife in the heart of cities, you're going to have a pandemic every so often," said Michael Worobey, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Arizona.
Ford is raising prices on three models made in Mexico, becoming one of the first big automakers to respond to new tariffs introduced by the Trump administration. The Mustang Mach-E, Maverick pickup, and Bronco Sport will all see sticker increases of up to $2,000 on some versions, a notice to dealers that was seen by Reuters revealed. The new pricing takes effect for vehicles built after May 2 and will likely show up on dealer lots starting in late June.

A Ford spokesperson described the price hikes as a mix of regular mid-year adjustments and the impact of tariffs, adding that customers are not being hit with the full cost of the new levies. Ford's stock is trading down 2% as of this writing. The move comes just days after Ford stated that Trump's 25% tariff on imported vehicles could cost the company about $2.5 billion in 2025, though it expects to cut that by $1 billion. Rival General Motors also warned last week that tariffs could add $4 billion to $5 billion in expenses but forecast a partial offset. Electrek noted Ford builds a larger percentage of its vehicles in the US than anyone other than Tesla, so "it isn't expected to see as big of an impact."

The auto industry has faced weeks of instability following the White House's announcement of new tariffs on imported vehicles and parts. After pushback from automakers, the administration backed off some harsher measures but kept a 25% tariff on the 8 million vehicles imported by the US annually. Analysts warn that if tariffs remain, yearly US auto sales could fall by more than a million cars.
HOKKAIDO, May 07 (News On Japan) - The newly established Hokkaido Valley Vision Council aims to create a 'Hokkaido version of Silicon Valley' by promoting development around next-generation semiconductor firm Rapidus and transforming the region from Tomakomai to Ishikari into a hub for advanced technology.

Focusing on Chitose City and the Ishikari region, the Hokkaido Valley Initiative aims to attract cutting-edge industries, including next-generation semiconductor development.

The Hokkaido Valley Vision Council, comprising economic organizations and other stakeholders, held its founding general meeting on Wednesday to push forward the initiative.

Drawing inspiration from Silicon Valley on the U.S. West Coast, where leading tech companies are clustered, the plan calls for gathering related companies across the corridor from Tomakomai to Ishikari to generate wider economic benefits for all of Hokkaido.

The initiative also includes infrastructure development such as a new station for Rapidus and broader urban planning goals to be realized by 2050.

Rapidus was established in August 2022 as a Japanese national project aimed at reviving the countrys competitiveness in the global semiconductor industry. Backed by a consortium of major Japanese corporationsincluding Toyota, Sony, NTT, Kioxia, Denso, NEC, and SoftBankRapidus emerged in response to the growing urgency for domestic production of next-generation semiconductors, amid intensifying global supply chain vulnerabilities and rising geopolitical tensions, particularly between the United States and China. With an initial capital of 7.3 billion yen and strong support from the Japanese government, including subsidies from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the company quickly positioned itself at the center of Japans semiconductor renaissance. The name "Rapidus," meaning "rapid" in Latin, reflects the company's ambition to move swiftly in an industry where speed and innovation are critical.

From its inception, Rapidus set a bold goal: to mass-produce 2-nanometer logic semiconductors in Japan by the latter half of the 2020s. These chips, which are essential for advanced computing, AI processing, and data centers, are currently dominated by overseas foundries such as Taiwan's TSMC and South Koreas Samsung Electronics. To catch up with global leaders, Rapidus entered into a strategic partnership with IBM, which had already developed 2-nanometer process technology in the United States. Under this collaboration, Rapidus gained access to cutting-edge manufacturing techniques and know-how, enabling it to begin laying the groundwork for domestic production capabilities.

The company chose Chitose City in Hokkaido as the site for its semiconductor fabrication facility (fab), citing the region's stable climate, clean air, access to water, and potential for renewable energy as key advantages. This marked a significant shift in Japans tech industry geography, which had traditionally been concentrated around Tokyo and western regions such as Kansai. The Hokkaido site also aligned with regional revitalization goals, as it is expected to attract skilled talent, generate employment, and create an ecosystem of related industries in northern Japan.

Rapidus is not only a technological project but also a symbol of national industrial policy. The Japanese government has pledged substantial financial support, offering subsidies and policy frameworks to facilitate long-term infrastructure development, workforce training, and global collaboration. The project also aligns with the United States' CHIPS Act and broader efforts among like-minded nations to build resilient semiconductor supply chains outside of China. In this sense, Rapidus is both a corporate venture and a geopolitical instrument designed to safeguard Japans technological sovereignty.

As of 2025, Rapidus continues to develop its pilot line, with plans to commence small-scale production by 2027 and full-scale mass production in the early 2030s. While the path is steep and the competition fierce, the company is drawing global attention for its unprecedented speed and ambitious goals. The progress of Rapidus is seen as a litmus test for Japans ability to reestablish itself as a leader in high-end semiconductor manufacturing, a role it had lost since its dominance in the 1980s.

Source: UHB
May 07 (News On Japan) - Japan's creative sectorsspanning anime, gaming, architecture, and advertisingare globally renowned for their innovation and quality.

As these industries increasingly adopt complex 3D workflows, the demand for efficient rendering solutions has surged. Enter the render farm: a pivotal tool transforming how Japanese creators bring their visions to life.

Understanding Render Farms

Render farm is a network of high-performance computers designed to process and render 3D graphics efficiently. By distributing rendering tasks across multiple machines, render farms significantly reduce the time required to produce high-quality visuals, enabling artists and studios to meet tight deadlines without compromising on quality.

GarageFarm.NET: Bridging Technology and Creativity

Among the leading providers in this space is GarageFarm.NET, a cloud-based render farm service that has made notable inroads into the Japanese market. With a user-friendly interface and seamless integration with popular 3D software like 3ds Max, Maya, and Cinema 4D, GarageFarm.NET offers Japanese creators a reliable and efficient rendering solution.

Notably, GarageFarm.NET has established a dedicated presence in Japan, offering localized support and resources tailored to the needs of Japanese users. Their commitment to the region underscores the growing importance of render farms in Japan's creative ecosystem.GarageFarm

Benefits for Japanese Creators

Efficiency: Significantly reduces rendering times, allowing for quicker project turnarounds.

Scalability: Handles projects of varying sizes, from indie animations to large-scale architectural visualizations.

Cost-Effective: Eliminates the need for expensive in-house rendering hardware.

Support: Provides 24/7 assistance, ensuring smooth operations across different time zones.

Real-World Applications in Japan

Japanese studios have leveraged render farms to enhance their production capabilities. For instance, in the animation sector, render farms have enabled the creation of intricate scenes with complex lighting and textures, elevating the visual storytelling experience. In architecture, firms have utilized these services to produce detailed visualizations, aiding in client presentations and project approvals.

Conclusion

As Japan continues to lead in creative innovation, integrating advanced technologies like render farms becomes essential. Services like GarageFarm.NET not only provide the technical infrastructure needed but also support the artistic ambitions of Japanese creators, ensuring that their work continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
May 07 (Japanese Food Craftsman) - We were caught off guard at how in sync these twin sisters are selling 200 crepes a day at this Crepe shop. They seem to be reading each other's minds the whole time and they always laugh on cue. It's no wonder their crepe shop is so popular!
The new Minute celebrates the life and achievements of Bora Laskin, the first Jewish Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and a jurist renowned for his groundbreaking decisions. Born in Fort William (now Thunder Bay) ON to Russian immigrant parents, he went on to earn degrees at University of Toronto and then Harvard Law School, earning exceptionally high marks at both. Despite that, he initially had difficulty finding work in Toronto, where antisemitism was common at the time. He did manage a return to the University of Toronto to teach and played a key role in revamping the law faculty. In 1965, Laskin was appointed to the Ontario Court of Appeal, and his reputation grew as a champion of civil liberties. In 1970, Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau appointed him to the Supreme Court of Canada, where he became known as the "Great Dissenter," due to his frequent disagreements with fellow members of the largely conservative court. In 1973 Laskin was named Chief Justice.

The London, ON-born Victor Garber, an Emmy nominated actor, is widely known for his key roles in Titanic (1997), Legally Blonde (2001), and Family Law (2021-). "I am honoured to be playing Bora Laskin in [this] Heritage Minute," said Garber, who describes himself as being of 'Polish Jewish' descent. "Being a part of this has been so eye-opening. I urge everybody to take a vital interest in the history of Canada."

"Bora Laskin's impact as one of the foremost legal minds in Canadian history, in the face of pervasive antisemitism cannot be overstated," said Anthony Wilson-Smith, President and CEO of Historica Canada. "His work has shaped the legal landscape of Canada to this day."

The Minute, filmed in November 2024 in Toronto, was produced by Historica Canada in conjunction with Accomplice Content Supply Co. It was made possible through funding from the Government of Canada. The law firm of Norton Rose Fulbright is a presenting sponsor, and in-kind equipment support was provided by Sunbelt Rentals. Mike Masters served as producer, with Charles Wahl as director (Little Grey Bubbles), and Sam Rosenthal and Drew Carnwath (The Hogtown Collective) as co-writers. The Right Honourable Beverley McLachlin, Canada's longest-serving chief justice and first woman appointed to the position, provided end narration on the English version of this Minute. The end narrator for the French version is the Honourable Yves Fortier, one of the world's leading international arbitration practitioners and a former Ambassador to the United Nations. Both narrators serve on the pro bono board of directors for Historica Canada.

On this production, Historica Canada consulted with Dr. Philip Girard, associate editor of the Osgoode Society for Canadian Legal History, and Dara Solomon, Executive Director of the Ontario Jewish Archives. John Laskin, former Justice of the Court of Appeal for Ontario and Bora Laskin's son, participated in the scripting process.

Historica Canada is a charitable organization offering programs in both official languages aimed at enhancing Canadians' knowledge of history and the values of citizenship. The Heritage Minutes collection, which now consists of more than 100 productions, is a bilingual Canadian series comprised of 60-second short films, each depicting a significant person, event, or story in Canadian history.

SOURCE Historica Canada

Emilie Bourdages-Bittle, Communications Coordinator, [email protected], (437) 290-9275
TORONTO, May 7, 2025 /CNW/ - A study published today in JAMA Neurology has found patients previously diagnosed with a "mystery brain disease" that emerged in New Brunswick, Canada, had known neurological conditionssome involving brain cell damage, such as dementia, and others not involving degeneration, like head injuries.

UHN study finds patients diagnosed with New Brunswick "mystery brain disease" have diagnosable neurological conditions Post this Involving input from various health care professionals such as neurologists, psychologists, and rehabilitation specialists can play a vital role in guiding patients through complex and uncertain diagnostic journeys, says Dr. Anthony Lang, neurologist, Senior Scientist at UHN's Krembil Brain Institute and senior author of the study. (Credit: University Health Network) (CNW Group/University Health Network)

Led by Dr. Anthony Lang, a neurologist and Senior Scientist at University Health Network's (UHN) Krembil Brain Institute, the study was a collaboration between Horizon Health Network in New Brunswick and UHN in Toronto. It involved a detailed clinical and pathological (post-mortem tissue) analysis of 25 individuals previously labeled as having New Brunswick Neurological Syndrome of Unknown Cause (NSUC).

Researchers conducted independent clinical evaluations of 14 patients and autopsy evaluations of 11 deceased individuals. Most of the 105 patients originally identified either did not respond or declined the offer for further investigation.

"We found that what had been termed a 'mystery brain disease' was, in fact, a collection of identifiable medical conditions," said Dr. Lang. "These included well-characterized neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, dementia, traumatic brain injury, and functional neurological disorder, a condition where physical symptoms like tremors or memory issues occur without clear structural brain damage."

The research team reviewed clinical records and diagnostic testsincluding MRI scans, brain blood flow studies, and electroencephalograms (EEGs), which measure electrical activity in the brainspanning from 2019 to 2025. They found no evidence of a novel or previously unidentified disease in any of the 25 cases.

The study also revealed significant discrepancies in many cases between the original clinical documentation and the findings from the second, independent assessments. Some diagnoses leaned too heavily on specific tests without enough clinical context on certain diagnostic tests. In all 25 cases, researchers found no evidence of a new disease.

"By analyzing the data, we were able to clarify the specific conditions contributing to the patients' symptoms," said Dr. Nathaniel Bendahan, a UHN Clinical Research Fellow at the time and first author of this study. "Rather than a single new disease, we found a range of distinct neurological diseases."

The findings underscore the importance of expert second opinions in complex or uncertain neurological casesespecially when initial diagnoses are unclear.

"Involving input from various health care professionals such as neurologists, psychologists, and rehabilitation specialists can play a vital role in guiding patients through complex and uncertain diagnostic journeys," added Dr. Lang.

About the Krembil Brain Institute

The Krembil Brain Institute at Toronto Western Hospital, part of University Health Network, is home to one of the world's largest and most comprehensive teams of physicians and scientists uniquely working hand-in-hand to prevent and confront problems of the brain and spine. One in three Canadians will experience a brain-related condition such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's or epilepsy in their lifetime. Through state-of-the-art patient care and advanced research, we are working relentlessly to find new treatments and cures. For more information, visit: www.uhn.ca/krembil

About University Health Network

UHN is Canada's No. 1 hospital and the world's No. 1 publicly funded hospital. With 10 sites and more than 44,000 TeamUHN members, UHN consists of Toronto General Hospital, Toronto Western Hospital, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, The Michener Institute of Education and West Park Healthcare Centre. As Canada's top research hospital, the scope of biomedical research and complexity of cases at UHN have made it a national and international source for discovery, education, and patient care. UHN has the largest hospital-based research program in Canada, with major research in neurosciences, cardiology, transplantation, oncology, surgical innovation, infectious diseases, genomic medicine and rehabilitation medicine. UHN is a research hospital affiliated with the University of Toronto. For more information, visit: www.uhn.ca

SOURCE University Health Network

Media Contact : Ana Fernandes, Manager, External Communications, University Health Network, Phone: 437 216 4597, Email: [email protected]
President Donald Trump says the Houthis have announced to the USA last night that they no longer want to fight. There is a ceasefire for now between the US and Yemen. The US will stop or pause bombing in Yemen as this plays out. The US stepped up air strikes on the Houthis in March and the US military says it has struck 1,000 targets in Yemen since then.

The Houthis began attacking shipping passing through the Red Sea in solidarity with the Palestinians in Gaza, who have been under bombardment by the Israeli military since the Palestinian armed group Hamas attacked Israeli communities in October 2023.

Houthis have launched dozens of missile and drone attacks on commercial ships, sinking two vessels, seizing a third and killing four crew members. The attacks forced even major shipping companies to stop using the Red Sea  through which almost 15% of global seaborne trade usually passes  and to take a much longer route around southern Africa instead.

Israel hit and destroyed an airport in Yemen, yesterday. The Israeli military has said it fully disabled Yemens main airport in the capital Sanaa, which is controlled by the Houthis. Tuesdays strikes targeted three civilian planes, the departures hall, the runway and a military air base. Israel began responding on Monday by striking the Yemeni port city of Hudaydah, then targeted Sanaa airport the next day.

Israel will move the people in Gaza to the South of the Gaza strip. Israel will increase the ground operation.

Last month, the Houthis said at least 68 African migrants were killed in a US air strike on a detention centre in north-western Yemen.

The Houthis have continued firing missiles towards Israel, with one missile landing near Ben Gurion airport near Tel Aviv on Sunday.

On Tuesday Israel responded with a large-scale attack on Yemens main international airport in the capital Sanaa, which left it completely destroyed according to an airport official.

March 15, 2025 40+ US air raids took place across Yemen, mainly in the capital of Sanaa and in Saada Governorate. The strikes, which US officials described as the largest military attack of Trumps second term, were carried out by fighter jets from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman, stationed in the northern Red Sea, and United States Air Force attack planes and armed drones launched from regional bases. The strikes had killed the Houthis top missile guy and 50 other dead and 98 wounded.

March 16, 2025 Airstrikes hit military headquarters, weapon storage facilities, and detection equipment used to locate shipping. Al-Masirah reported two US strikes in Al Hudaydah. Saudi news outlet AlHadath reported that the security chief of Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi was killed in Saada. US airstrikes in Al Jawf Governorate killed three Houthi officials, including Commander Zain al Abidin al Mahtouri in al Hazm. The Houthis claimed that they targeted the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman using 18 ballistic and cruise missiles and a drone.

On the night of March 17/18, the United States launched a wave of strikes targeting Houthi and IRGC targets, reportedly inflicting casualties on both.

March 19, at least 10 strikes were conducted by the US in Sanaa and Al Hudaydah.

Continued daily strikes from March 20-28.

72 USA strikes in March 29.

Heavier level of airstrikes daily from March 30-May 5. Usually about 20-30 strikes per day. US killed about 500 Houthis fighters and a lot of Houthis leadership.
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.
The Police Unity Tour involving hundreds of New Jersey police officers will start Friday at multiple locations around the state.

The more than 300-mile bike trek will conclude at the annual ride-in and ceremony at 2 p.m. on Monday at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The event, which is part of National Police Week in May, is a 300-mile journey over four days. It pays pays tribute to law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

The 37th Annual Candlelight Vigil will be held on Tuesday.

The tour is a fundraising event that supports the memorial and its initiatives.

A list of the New Jersey fallen officers by police department is available online on the Officer Down Memorial Page.

Annually, law enforcement members and survivors of line-of-duty deaths from across the United States come together for a massive bike ride leading up to this ceremony at the memorial, located at the 400 block of E Street NW.

The slogan of the event is They ride for those who died, honoring the sacrifices of fallen officers.

At the ceremony, the Police Unity Tour participants will pay their respects to the law enforcement heroes whose names are engraved on the memorial walls.

It is categorized as a ceremony and will take place at 444 E Street NW, Washington, D.C. Those wishing to attend can register through the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund website.



Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by NJ Advance Media staff.
FILE - A Walmart logo is displayed outside of a Walmart store, in Walpole, Mass, Sept. 3, 2019. (AP Photo/Steven Senne, File) AP

Flames damaged a Walmarts super center in Egg Harbor Township shortly after the store closed Tuesday night, prompting several fire departments to respond.

The fire was reported around 11:36 p.m., Egg Harbor Township police said Wednesday.

A worker was examined for smoke inhalation from trying to douse the fire, 6ABC Philadelphia reported. A township police captain, however, said authorities werent aware of any injuries.

The store was to remain closed at least on Wednesday while the company assesses the damage, police said.

We are temporarily closed but working to reopen as soon as possible, Joe Pennington, a Walmart spokesperson, told NJ Advance Media in a email. The company official did not indicate if staff have determined a reopening date.

While the store is closed, Walmart is encouraging pharmacy customers to obtain their prescriptions from a sister store in nearby Mays Landing, Pennington said.

Township police credited a swift response from firefighters to the store, at 6801 Black Horse Pike, in preventing broader damage. It was unclear Wednesday what part of the store was damaged.

Staff from the Farmington Volunteer Fire Company, one of several departments serving the municipality, said in a social media post that other fire township firefighters from its agencies responded. Township firefighters were also assisted by firefighters from nearby Northfield, Pleasantville and Atlantic City International Airport.

An initial assessment indicated the fire may have been suspicious, but investigators determined the fire was electrical in nature, police said. Police did not elaborate further on the investigation.

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.
Somers Point, New Jersey, police are searching for Bryn Rutherford, who was last seen in the town April 24, authorities said. Somers Point Police Department

Police in South Jersey are searching for a woman who was last seen about two weeks ago and hasnt contacted her friends and family since.

Bryn Rutherford was last seen in Somers Point in Atlantic County on April 24, police said Wednesday. She is known to spend time in Somers Point, Atlantic City and Trenton.

Authorities did not release her age or residency.

Rutherford does not have a phone or a vehicle, police said, asking the public for information on her whereabouts.

Anyone with information about Rutherfords disappearance is asked to contact Somers Point police at 609-927-6161.

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 company redeveloping the former BL England Generating Station is close to presenting its conceptual plans for a hotel and homes to be built on the site of the demolished electric power plant.

Chad Parks, a partner at Beelseys Point Development Group, which acquired the property in 2022, said it will present an overview of the project to the Upper Township Committee by late summer.

Plans call for a 180-room hotel, 400 resort-style condominiums with 286 age-restricted units, as well as 80,000-square-feet of commercial space for a restaurant and dry boat storage, Parks said.

The development group has applied for a Coastal Facility Review Act permit, a requirement for new construction in sensitive areas near water. The property, at Beesleys Point in Upper Township, is at the base of the bay leading into the Great Egg Harbor River.

Once it receives a permit, Parks said, the company will present its plan to the Upper Township Committee. The committee will need to vote on a redevelopment agreement with the developer, after which the project will go before the zoning and planning boards for approvals.

The final number of hotel rooms, condominiums and commercial space will be determined after the permit process is complete, Parks said. The firm has also sought permits for a wastewater treatment to serve the site.

At the time the power plant closed in 2019 it was New Jerseys largest remaining coal-powered plant.

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.
A federal judge has issued a temporary injunction that restores, at least for now, $85 million in congressionally approved funding for New Jersey schools to deal with the long-term impacts of COVID on students.

U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon last month sought to block states from accessing the education funding approved by Congress in 2021 in the American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA).

That prompted New Jersey to join 15 other states and the District of Columbia in a lawsuit challenging the legality of McMahons move. a U.S. District Court Judge Edgardo Ramos on Tuesday sided with the states, issuing a temporary injunction that frees up the funding while the lawsuit makes its way through the courts.

We are grateful that todays decision puts a stop to the Trump Administrations reckless and cruel attempts to cut off critical education funding to our state, state Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin said in a statement. As the courts decision today makes clear, stripping access to federal funding that helps some of our states most vulnerable students violates the law, plain and simple.

Platkin said the sudden cutoff of federal funds will cause budget gaps that will hurt students and teachers.

New Jersey uses its ARPA funds to increase support staff for mental health and make up for lost instructional time with intensive tutoring and afterschool programs, according to the state plan that was approved by the U.S. Department of Education.

Under the Biden administration, states were given until 2026 to use their ARPA funds. But last month, McMahon sent a letter that froze access to the funding, which triggered a lawsuit.

Ramos ordered the U.S. Department of Education to release the funds while the lawsuit proceeds through the court. The judge did not comment on the merits of the case.

The U.S Department of Education did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Wednesday.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.Richard Cowen may be reached at rcowen@njadvancemedia.com.
Multiple generations have grown up watching the Disney Channel.

From beloved 90s films like Zenon: Girl of the 21st Century to hit 2000s shows like Wizards of Waverly Place, Disney Channel has been serving up feel-good, funny content for decades.

Selena Gomez, who played Alex Russo on Wizards of Waverly Place from 2007 to 2012, said she is beyond proud of the work that [she] did with Disney during a 2021 interview with RadioTimes.

I have to say, Im very lucky, Gomez continued. As a female in my position, I was taken care of and Ive only had lovely experiences, so Im grateful for that.

Keep scrolling to see what Gomez and your other favorite Disney Channel stars are up to now:

Christy Carlson Romano

Carlson Romano played Ren Stevens on the Disney Channel series Even Stevens from from 2000 to 2003 and starred in the Disney Channel Original Movies (DCOM) Cadet Kelly and the Event Stevens Movie. She also voiced the titular role in the Disney Channel animated series Kim Possible.

Carlson Romano is now a successful podcaster. In addition to hosting her own podcast, Vulnerable, the actress launched a podcast network called PodCo in 2023. The network focuses on rewatch podcasts hosted by the stars of popular shows.

READ MORE: Former Disney Channel star shot in the eye while celebrating husbands birthday

Wizards of Waverly Pod, Full House Rewind, and Romanos podcast with fellow Disney Channel alum Anneliese van Der Pol, Big Names, are all part of the PodCo umbrella.

Carlson Romano founded PodCo with her husband, Brendan Rooney. The couple tied the knot in 2013 and share daughters Isabella, born in 2016, and Sophia, born in 2019. Carlson Romano celebrated five years of sobriety via TikTok in 2021.

The actress also appeared on season 3 of the Fox reality show Special Forces: Worlds Toughest Test in 2025.

Hilary Duff

Duff played the titular role in the Disney Channel series Lizzie McGuire and the film based on the show, The Lizzie McGuire Movie. She also starred in the DCOM Cadet Kelly.

Duff went on to star in the TV Land original series Younger from 2015-2021 and the Hulu sitcom How I Met Your Father from 2022-2023. Shes released five studio albums to date and had numerous top 40 hits, including Come Clean and Wake Up.

The actress signed on to star in a Lizzie McGuire revival in 2019. Two episodes were filmed before Disney scrapped the series. In February 2020, Duff revealed via Instagram that Disneys insistence on a PG rating had limited the shows potential.

READ MORE: See which Disney Channel alums attended the 2025 Met Gala

Id be doing a disservice to everyone by limiting the realities of a 30 year olds journey to live under the ceiling of a PG rating, she wrote.

Duff has been married to musician Matthew Koma since 2019. They share three daughters: Banks, born in 2018, Mae, born in 2021, and Townes, born in 2024. Duff also shares son Luca, born in 2012, with ex-husband Mike Comrie.

Selena Gomez

In addition to her role on Wizards of Waverly Place, Gomez starred in the DCOM Princess Protection Program with Demi Lovato. She went on to appear in films including Another Cinderella Story, Spring Breakers, and Emilia Perez, the last of which earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting actress.

Since 2021, Gomez has starred as Mabel in the Hulu original series Only Murders in the Building, earning her an Emmy nod and three Golden Globe nominations.

Gomez is also a two-time Grammy nominee. Her latest studio album, I Said I Love You First, is a collaboration with her fiance, Benny Blanco. The couple started dating in 2023.

Gomez was diagnosed with lupus, an autoimmune disease, in 2013. Due to complications from the disease, she received a kidney transplant from actress Francia Raisa in 2017. Gomez has also been outspoken about her bipolar disorder diagnosis.

Aly Michalka

Michalka played Keely in the Disney Channel sitcom Phil of the Future from 2004-2007. She also starred in the DCOMs Cow Belles and Now You See It She went on to appear in films including Bandslam, Easy A, The Roommate, and The Lears.

Aly is one half of the musical duo Aly & AJ along with her sister, AJ Michalka. Their sixth studio album, Silver Deliverer, was released in May 2025.

READ MORE: 90s Disney Channel star says former costar still wont speak to him

Aly has been married to independent film producer Stephen Ringer since 2014. They welcomed their son, Jack, in 2024.

Dylan and Cole Sprouse

Dylan and Cole Sprouse starred on Disney Channel's "The Suite Life of Zack & Cody." Evan Agostini/Invision/AP

The twin brothers starred as Zack (Dylan) and Cody (Cole) on Disney Channels The Suite Life of Zack & Cody from 2005-2008 and the spinoff series The Suite Life on Deck from 2008-2011. They both graduated from New York University in 2015.

Dylan is the cofounder of All-Wise Meadery in Brooklyn, which opened in 2018. He has starred in films including After We Collided, Beautiful Disaster and Aftermath. Dylan has been married to model Barbara Palvin since 2023.

Cole played Jughead Jones in the CW series Riverdale from 2017-2023 and has starred in films including Lisa Frankenstein and The Rivals of Amziah King.

READ MORE: Former Disney Channel star addresses hurtful podcast argument with costar

Kirsten Storms

Storms played the titular role in Disney Channels Zenon trilogy. She also played Emily in the DCOM Johnny Tsunami and voiced the role of Bonnie Rockwaller in Kim Possible.

Since her Disney Channel days, Storms has become a fixture on daytime television. Shes played Maxie Jones on General Hospital since 2005.

Storms shares daughter Harper, born in 2014, with ex-husband Brandan Barash. She met Barash when they were General Hospital costars. The former couple divorced in 2016.

All Disney Channel original series and movies are available to stream on Disney+.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips/.
A Gloucester County grand jury has indicted a mother and her boyfriend in the death of a 2-year-old found with drugs in his system and cuts and bruises on his head and body.

Police were called to the 400 block of Deptford Avenue in Woodbury on June 3 for a child in cardiac arrest.

The boy, identified as Ashton in an online fundraiser, was taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead, police said.
UPDATE: N.J. boy fatally shot in the head IDd as community raises money for family

A 10-year-old boy killed by a gunshot wound to the head was alone in a Gloucester County house when he died Tuesday, according to a law enforcement source.
A Trenton man has been arrested on attempted murder and related charges for shooting a man last week in the citys North Ward.

Timothy Lewis, 54, allegedly shot a man on April 28 in the 600 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard shortly before 2 p.m. The victim suffered wounds to both legs, including a broken femur bone, a Trenton police spokesperson announced.

Patrol officers arrived at the incident and found only the victim, who was taken to a city hospital for treatment.

The departments Shooting Response Team investigated and charged Lewis, who also faces aggravated assault with a firearm and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Detective Jake Schor, a New Jersey State Police officer assigned to the team, was the lead investigator.

The police department did not offer any theories or motives for the shooting.

A U.S. Marshals task force apprehended Lewis in Ewing on Tuesday, May 6. Attorney information was not immediately available for Lewis.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription.

Kevin Shea may be reached at kshea@njadvancemedia.com
A former sheriffs officer has won a $3.8 million jury verdict after claiming she was fired for objecting to her superiors repeated violations of law and regulations, including witness intimidation and covering up misconduct involving political allies.

Candice Burgess filed suit against Middlesex County in February 2020, alleging that Sheriff Mildred Scott retaliated against her with suspensions, demotion, and termination for objecting to these violations.

The Somerset County Superior Court jury ruled in Burgesss favor, awarding her compensation for lost pay, pension, retiree health benefits, and emotional distress.

The verdict, which was first reported by MyCentralJersey.com, was reached on April 23 following a trial that began on April 14.

The Middlesex County Office of County Counsel has said its plans to appeal the ruling.

Regarding the Burgess vs. Middlesex County case, the County asserts that the verdict is against the weight of the evidence presented at the trial, the office said in a statement. As such, the County intends to appeal the verdict.

The allegations in the complaint include instances where Scott allegedly failed to report a sexual assault complaint to the Middlesex County Prosecutors Office.

Burgess also alleged Scott covered up a failed drug test by a job candidate from a politically active family, and improperly handled evidence related to the Joanne Chesimard case.

Chesimard, also known as Assata Shakur, was a member of the Black Liberation Army convicted of the murder of New Jersey State Trooper Werner Foerster in 1973. She escaped from prison in 1979, and has been a fugitive ever since.

Burgess also alleged that Scott did not follow proper procedures in several other cases, such as disposing of inmate property and using racial slurs by officers.

Burgess claimed her objections to these violations led to a series of retaliatory actions by Scott, including suspensions, demotion, and ultimately termination.

The complaint outlines how Burgess faced a 70-day suspension in 2019 and was demoted from her position as chief warrant officer, resulting in a significant salary reduction.

Burgesss employment was terminated in January 2020 after more than 14 years of service.

The lawsuit, filed in February 2020, sought compensatory and punitive damages, as well as attorneys fees and costs.

Burgesss lawsuit included several other examples of alleged misconduct on the part of Scott or others:

An investigator charged with improperly disposing of an inmates personal property was allegedly protected by Scott, who instructed Burgess to change her finding from substantiated to unsubstantiated.

Scott allegedly instructed Burgess to find unsubstantiated charges against a sergeant who repeatedly used racial slurs, despite Burgess sustaining the charges.

Scott allegedly refused to report a sustained charge against an investigator who improperly ran a license plate through a state computer for personal reasons to the FBIs Criminal Justice Information Services Division.

Burgess claimed this pattern of violations led to her retaliatory suspension, demotion, and termination.

Her attorney, Paul Castronovo of Castronovo & McKinney in Morristown, did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the verdict.

Scotts attorney, Lori A. Dvorak of Dvorak & Associates in Metuchen, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
A man was struck and killed by a train Tuesday morning near the Middletown train station in Monmouth County, officials said.

A North Jersey Coast Line train, which departed Penn Station New York at 7:44 a.m. and was scheduled to arrive in Long Branch, hit the man about 9:06 a.m., according to an NJ Transit spokesperson.

There were no reported injuries to the 50 passengers or crew, the spokesperson said.
A federal appeals court dismissed a parents claim that her sons middle school curriculum violated the Constitution by teaching about Islam.

The United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit upheld the constitutionality of a social studies curriculum that included instructional videos about Islam.

In its decision issued Monday, the court said that the Chatham School Districts curriculum does not show any signs of promoting a specific religion.

However, the attorney for the plaintiff, Chatham parent, Libby Hilsenrath, said he intends to appeal the ruling.

In 2018, Hilsenrath filed the lawsuit on behalf of her son, a then 7th grader at Chatham Middle School.

Her complaint named the Chatham School District and several school officials and teachers.

Hilsenrath argued that the inclusion of instructional videos about Islam in a World Cultures and Geography class violated the establishment clause of the first amendment, claiming it amounted to religious indoctrination and coercion.

The school district defended the curriculum, explaining that it covered various world religions, including Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, and Hinduism.

The district said that their aim was to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of global cultures and beliefs, as required by state standards.

They also explained that the videos were meant to educate students about the basics of Islam and noted that the videos were provided to students, but not shown in class or required to be watched by students.

Attorney Ruby Kumar-Thompson of Cleary Giacobbe Alfieri Jacobs in Oakland, who represented the school district, said she believes this is the first decision of its kind in any circuit court across the nation.

It provides significant guidance to schools in allowing them academic freedom to include religion as a part of a broader academic study, Kumar-Thompson said.

The court underscored that its role is limited to upholding constitutional rights, without expressing any opinions on the curriculum itself.

Hilsenrath was represented in court by Richard Thompson of the Thomas More Law Center, who said his next move will be to appeal for a new hearing before the entire the Third Circuit.

Thompson said if that hearing is denied, he will appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.
A Morris County man admitted to sending death threats to a political commentator who made statements about a deceased rabbi he respected, officials with the U.S. Attorneys Office said Tuesday.

Haim Braverman, 47, of Morris Plains pleaded guilty to transmitting threats in interstate commerce, officials said.

Braverman posted a video on social media in September 2024 making various threats to a political commentator, officials said.
Seattle, WA (Grist) - When Native Hawaiian combat veteran Joseph Guzman-Simpliciano got back home to Hawaii from Afghanistan and Iraq, he was shocked at how the burnt-out, abandoned cars lying by the side of the road on the west side of Oahu reminded him of the war zone he had just left.

Joseph and his wife Carmen founded Kingdom Pathways to help empower their community to address environmental problems like water contamination and illegal dumping. We founded Kingdom Pathways out of love for our land, said Carmen, who is both Native Hawaiian and Cherokee.

By the end of last year, they had received a $3 million federal grant to help empower their community to shape environmental policy. The money wouldve enabled their organization to hire about a dozen people; train community members on citizen science, such as taking air quality and water samples; and help educate the community on longstanding environmental challenges like how to get rid of cesspools.

When she found out about the grant, Carmen was shocked. I said, What? Little old us? she said. Im just a mom trying to figure out how to keep my children safe in my community.

But her excitement was short-lived. Over the course of the first 100 days of his second term, President Donald Trump has been slashing millions of dollars in federal funding that supports Indigenous peoples and their environmental work. He has changed policies to make it easier for developers to fast-track energy projects and eliminated numerous federal jobs in agencies like Indian Health Services and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. More than $350 million has been frozen for tribal nations and Alaska Native communities, including money to replace asbestos-ridden homes for the Tyonek people in Alaska and upgrade their homes with solar panels to help them offset monthly electric bills that can range from $300 to $800, and funding to prevent an eroding riverbank from swallowing up the homes in the Alaska Native Village of Kipnuk.

The chaos is part of a broader pattern of the Trump administration to act quickly regardless of legality and reverse policies when needed, even at the cost of sowing confusion and wasting money. Its been a shitshow, said Matthew Fletcher, a law professor at Michigan State University and member of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians.

In his home state of Michigan, tribal nations like the Bay Mills Indian Community have experienced the twin effects of both loss of federal funding and consequences of Trumps push to deregulate energy projects. Last year, Bay Mills received a multi-million dollar award to build up its solar infrastructure; in February, that funding was frozen. For years they have been fighting an expansion of the Line 5 oil pipeline that snakes through the Great Lakes; this year, Trump fast-tracked it, prompting Bay Mills and other tribal nations to withdraw from a federal consultation process.

Kingdom Pathways grant through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency wasnt specifically for Indigenous-led organizations, but it was slashed as part of a broader defunding of EPAs Community Change grants that had sought to address climate and environmental justice. Within the past two weeks, a court ruled that the Trump administration violated the law in failing to pay out the grants promised to Guzman-Simplicianos and similar organizations. The money is now flowing again, but its not clear how long thatll continue.

Theres a lot of uncertainty, said Gussie Lord, a managing attorney at the environmental law firm Earthjustice and a citizen of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin. People dont know what is going on or how its going to impact their programs.

The funding cuts have been so severe and widespread that more than 20 Native organizations banded together to form a new Coalition for Tribal Sovereignty to defend their rights amid Trumps rapid-fire federal policy changes. Since February, they have written nearly two dozen letters to the Trump administration and Congress pushing back on budget cuts.

We are not the cause of federal deficits, nor should federal savings be achieved to our detriment, the coalition said in a letter to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum last month. In fact, the U.S. should prioritize payment on debt to Tribal Nations as its original creditors.

Part of the reason Indigenous peoples are particularly affected by federal upheaval is because tribal nations necessarily deal with the federal government more so than non-Indigenous peoples, Lord said. Thats because many tribal nations have treaties with the U.S. that establish ongoing trust responsibilities between the U.S. and Indigenous peoples and guarantee certain rights.

Many live on federal Indian reservations, land heavily regulated by U.S. agencies like the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Their children go to schools funded by the U.S. Department of Education or they receive health care from the federally funded Indian Health Service. Indigenous peoples in Alaska and the Pacific region also rely on federal funding, and in the U.S. territories, they lack voting representation in Congress and the ability to vote for president.

Allison Neswood, an attorney at the Native American Rights Fund, said the cuts are particularly painful because tribal services have been perpetually underfunded -- for example, public safety and justice programs are funded at 13 percent of the estimated need, and health care is funded at half. Because of this, in addition to advocacy and litigation, tribal leaders are also finding ways to work with the Trump administration to resolve their concerns.

I think this is very existential for tribes. You cant just walk away from the administration, Neswood said. These are life-and-death, existential issues. So I think theres a real effort to see where we can find some shared priorities or shared interests with the administration.

The Trump administration says its acting in line with its commitment to efficient spending.

As with any change in Administration, the agency is reviewing its awarded grants to ensure each is an appropriate use of taxpayer dollars and to understand how those programs align with Administration priorities, the EPA said in a statement to Grist. Projects are being individually assessed by period of performance, criticality, and other criteria, the Bureau of Indian Affairs echoed.

Lord from Earthjustice said her immediate concern goes beyond funding cuts. An Interior Department announcement last week revealed the agency will shorten environmental impact analyses timelines that can take as long as two years down to 28 days.

Things like mines, pipelines, big oil and gas leases, things that can really impact a huge area of land, and a large watershed -- those environmental reviews have been arbitrarily truncated, she said. It really covers a broad swath of industrial activities.

Fletcher from Michigan State University said such deregulation might benefit a small percentage of tribes who have oil reserves, but that many others will find themselves shut out from decision-making on projects affecting their communities. Trump signed an executive order earlier this year to fast-track energy projects, and is jump-starting a copper mine at Oak Flat to meet growing demand for critical mineral mining over the objections of the Western Apache people.

Were finding that much of the legal and political infrastructure weve established vis-a-vis the federal government is being systematically dismantled, he said.
TSA agents at Newark Airport reminded passengers on Wednesday about the new Real ID requirement for travel. Larry Higgs | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

Travelers at Newark International Airport were met with yet another day of delays and flight cancellations  and a new requirement as the Real ID deadline took effect Wednesday.

As of 10 a.m., there were 84 cancellations and 20 delays at Newark Airport, according to FlightAware.com. The delays followed numerous days in which hundreds of flights and thousands of travelers were affected.
The FAA on Wednesday took steps to improve the data lines that caused controllers handling air traffic into Newark Liberty to lose radar and radio communications for a period of time. AP

A week after air traffic controllers lost all radar and radio communications with aircraft flying in and out of Newark Liberty International Airport, federal officials announced steps to fix the problems that led to scary moments both on the ground and in the air.

Amid growing concerns about safety, the Federal Aviation Administration on Wednesday said it will also increase controller staffing, which has been widely blamed for cancelled flights and long delays for thousands of passengers flying in and out of one of the busiest airports in the nation.

The FAAs actions will include backing up the data lines connecting the New York-based radar processing facility with the control center in Philadelphia where those who handle the air space for Newark Liberty are based.

Those measures will include:

Adding three new, high-bandwidth telecommunications connections between the New York-based STARS system, which processes radar data for Newark. Officials said those lines will provide more speed, reliability and redundancy.

Replacing copper telecommunications connections with new fiber optic lines that have greater bandwidth and speed.

Deploying a temporary backup system to the Philadelphia control center to provide redundancy as they make the change to the new fiber optic network.

And ultimately, establishing a STARS hub at Philadelphia so that the facility does not depend on a telecommunications feed from the New York.

The cost of those upgrades, and how long it will take to make them, were not disclosed.

Those working at the Philadelphia Terminal Radar Approach Control center, known as TRACON, told NJ Advance Media on Tuesday that the radar and radio frequency blackout on April 28  which they said lasted for as long as 90 seconds  was likely caused by the loss of the data feed from the STARS facility in New York.

I think everyone was in a panic, said one controller, who asked not to be identified because they were not authorized to speak publicly. When the radar and frequencies went out, there wasnt anything you can see. None of the frequencies worked.

Without radar or radio, the controller said others handing the traffic quickly realized they could no longer control anything thats in the sky right now.

The controller, after hearing of the FAAs actions, said the fixes are things theyve already known they had to do. It wasnt a matter of identifying solutions.

The problem, the added, is that those solutions will take a long time.

Meanwhile, were still working in a powder keg, said the controller.

The outage was captured on an audio recording by LiveATC.net, as a United Airlines pilot repeatedly radioed the controllers for clearance to land and was met only by silence. Another pilot radioed as well. Approach are you there? he asked.

In the wake of the incident, several controllers took leaves under the Federal Employees Compensation Act, which covers all federal employees that are physically injured or experience a traumatic event on the job, according to a union spokesman.

There have been other communications and radar breakdowns as well in recent months  at least two other times since August  a veteran controller told NBC News on Tuesday.

NJ Advance Media confirmed that with its own source.

The move from New York

A decision by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to conduct a major runway improvement project this spring, eliminating one of Newark Libertys two main runways, had already led to big problems getting planes in and out of the airport in recent weeks.

But the physical move last year of Newark Liberty controllers from the New York TRACON in Westbury to the Philadelphia Tower at Philadelphia International Airport has led to unexpected troubles for those tasked with directing air traffic.

Even before last weeks blackout, there have been reports of equipment failures attributed to the move.

Michael McCormick, a certified flight controller who is now a professor of Air Traffic Management at EmbryRiddle Aeronautical University in Florida, said the way the FAA chose to relay data from New York to the new facility at the airport in Philadelphia was unique.

Instead of a direct feed from radar and radio, they are fed into New York TRACON and then to Philadelphia. Thats not typically the way its done. Normally its a direct feed, he explained.

With the actions announced by the FAA on Wednesday, that will be corrected.

What cant be fixed so quickly is adding more controllers.

Even before the problems at Newark Liberty, there were thousands of open air traffic controller positions nationwide. While its a high-paying job, it is also a high stress one and the New York area includes three major airports  Newark, JFK and LaGuardia  as well as several smaller, airports that mostly handle business jets and general aviation aircraft.

Everything in New York TRACON is complicated, agreed McCormick  who was managing New York Center airspace on 9/11 and has worked in Philadelphia.

At the same time, the relocation from New York to Philadelphia led some controllers to leave rather than relocate.

FAA officials said Wednesday that the area in the Philadelphia TRACON that handles Newark traffic has 22 fully certified controllers and 21 controllers and supervisors in training. Ten of those 21 controllers and supervisors are receiving on-the-job training. All 10 are certified on at least one position and two are certified on multiple positions.

We have a healthy pipeline with training classes filled through July 2026, the agency said in a statement.

However, it takes nearly a year for an air traffic controller to be certified for a particular facility.

__

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Ted Sherman may be reached at tsherman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on X @TedShermanSL.
9 civilians killed, over 40 wounded in India, Pakistan clashes in Kashmir

Xinhua) 16:56, May 07, 2025

NEW DELHI, May 7 (Xinhua) -- At least nine civilians were killed and over 40 others wounded Wednesday in clashes between Indian and Pakistani troops across the Line of Control in Kashmir, officials said.

The intense firing started shortly after the Indian military carried out airstrikes inside Pakistan and the Pakistan-controlled Kashmir during the early hours on Wednesday.

Indian army officials said they were effectively responding to the shelling and firing from the Pakistani side.

According to officials, the civilian deaths were reported from the worst-hit Poonch district, 185 km southwest of Srinagar city in the Indian-controlled Kashmir. At least 28 people were also wounded in the firing.

Reports said 10 people, including five minor children, were also wounded in the shelling in Uri sector of Baramulla district, while three others wounded in Rajouri district.

Several houses were also damaged due to the shelling in the affected frontier districts, including Kupwara.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
UPDATE: The missing teen was found safe, the Aberdeen Police Department announced Thursday.

Police are asking for help finding a Monmouth County high school student who has been missing since Monday.

The girl, a junior at Matawan Regional High School in Aberdeen, was last seen near the school around 2 p.m. Monday, Aberdeen police said. She has not returned home since.

She is about 51 tall and was last seen wearing a pink shirt with a cheetah, pink sweatpants, white crocs, pink multicolored head scarf and a grey book bag, police said.

Anyone with information on her or where she might be is asked to call the Aberdeen Township Police Department 732-566-2054.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.

Katie Kausch may be reached at kkausch@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @KatieKausch.
Federal prosecutors have charged a man who allegedly tried to sell photos and videos showing child sex abuse to an undercover FBI agent on an online messaging platform.

Dwayne Smalls, 25, of Paterson, was charged by complaint last week with possession of child pornography and distribution of child pornography, the U.S. Attorneys Office District of New Jersey said in a statement on Tuesday. He has since made his first appearance in Newark federal court. The office did not say whether he is in custody or was released.

In the summer of 2022, an undercover FBI agent found a post on a messaging platform that advertised the sale of pictures and videos depicting child sex abuse. The agent then contacted the user of the post and was instructed to contact the person on a separate messaging platform to discuss the sale, according to the criminal complaint.

The anonymous user later offered the agent one explicit file for $40 or three for $60, the complaint said. The files were all stored in a folder with a name that included the word baby and multiple sexual words, according to the court document.

Investigators were able to trace one of the messaging accounts to an IP address at Smalls Paterson home, authorities said. FBI agents executed a search warrant at the residence in November 2023.

During a search of Smalls phone, agents found various chats in which he shared the illegal files and encouraged users to pay him to send more, authorities alleged in the complaint. In addition, 11 videos depicting the sexual abuse of children were stored on the phone, prosecutors said.

The U.S. Attorneys Office did not say why Smalls was charged nearly 18 months after the execution of the search warrant.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com.
A 70-year-old woman was found fatally stabbed Tuesday afternoon inside a Paterson home, authorities said.

The woman, who was not identified, had multiple stab wounds when officers said they found her at her home in the area of Cianci and Market Street at 2:18 p.m. No other information was released by the Passaic County Prosecutors Office or the Paterson Police Department.

The stabbing remains under investigation and police said they would release more details later.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the offices tips line at 1-877-370-PCPO or tips@passaiccountynj.org or call the Paterson Police Detective Bureau at 973-321-1120.

Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription.

Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com.
Theres good news in Gov. Phil Murphys proposed state budget for the one million people in New Jersey who are poor, disabled and otherwise uninsured and those who rely on the state Department of Human Services.

The meager reimbursement for doctors who take Medicaid patients would rise, as would the hourly wage for workers in group homes taking care of people with mental illness and autism to an average of $21 an hour.

But any bright spots in the governors budget proposal are overshadowed by the looming threat of a plan by Congressional Republicans in Washington D.C. to cut $880 billion from the Medicaid program to preserve tax cuts from President Donald Trumps first term.
Terrorists whose disruptions cost global markets nearly $1 trillion in goods while forcing significant increases in shipping and insurance costs was lauded by President Donald Trump on Wednesday for their bravery.

The Houthis, who have sparked a civil war in Yemen, have been firing missiles at Israel and at shipping in the Red Sea since Israel began a military offensive against Hamas in Gaza after terrorists deadly attack on Oct. 7, 2023.

The Houthis say attacks on Israel will continue.

The Trump Administration had continued attacks on the Houthis started by President Joe Biden and, with more intense bombing, eventually squeezed an agreement from the group to leave U.S. shipping interests alone.

The latest bombing campaign as cost the U.S. roughly $750 million in the loss of equipment and military expenditures.

Trump said on Wednesday that he would accept the word of the terrorists. Human rights activists had raised concerns over civilian casualties.

We had a very good outcome with the Houthis, and we honor their word, he said. We dealt with other countries who were their surrogates and well honor all of their words and well see what happens, but I believe that hopefully thats over with, and theyll leave the ships alone.

We hit them very hard. They had a great capacity to withstand punishment. They took tremendous punishment. You could say theres a lot of bravery there. It was amazing what they took. But we honor their commitment and their word. They gave us their word that they wouldnt be shooting ships anymore and we honor that.

On Tuesday, during a press briefing with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Trump said the Houthis said, Please dont bomb us anymore and were not going to attack your ships.

The U.S. military has said it has struck more than 1,000 targets during the current operation in Yemen, known as Operation Rough Rider, which started on March 15. The U.S. estimated that the bombing killed hundreds of Houthi fighters and numerous Houthi leaders.

On April 28, a suspected U.S. airstrike hit a migrant center in Yemen, and Houthi TV said 68 people were killed.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.
New Jersey voters are rarely fans of tax increases, but there is a high amount of support for boosting taxes on online gambling and wealthy individuals, according to a Stockton University poll.

About 58% of those polled said they would support raising taxes on online gambling, while 55% said they would back raising taxes on wealthy individuals, the poll found.

The universitys poll also found 85% of New Jersey voters have not gambled online with a betting app, sportsbook or a casino in the past year.

Online gambling rates are still pretty low among voters at-large, so that helps shed some light on why thats a tax hike theyre largely fine with, said head researcher Alyssa Maurice.

MORE: Is New Jersey heading for a fiscal catastrophe? Budget analysts sound the alarm.

The Stockton poll asked voters about several proposals to balance New Jerseys budget, including new taxes and possible program cuts. The state budget is currently under negotiation in Trenton. It is expected to be voted on and signed by Gov. Phil Murphy by end of June.

Murphy unveiled a proposed $55.9 billion state budget in February that calls for several new taxes, as well as continued money for several property tax relief programs, another payment for public-worker pensions, and additional school funding.

The Stockton poll found voters were mixed on whether to support new state taxes for alcohol, cigarettes, corporations and real estate transactions.

Just below 49% of those polled supported raising taxes on alcohol and cigarettes. Raising taxes on corporations polled at 48%. Taxing real estate transactions over $1 million was slightly less popular at 43%.

Proposals to cut state spending were less popular. Only 26% said they supported cutting spending on property tax relief. Only 25% wanted to cut benefits and future pay raises for government employees.

Among the least popular proposals were new state taxes on activities like laser tag and bowling, which polled at 11%. Just 5% wanted to cut health programs and Medicaid.

While everything in the state budget is up for negotiation until the final ink is dry in June, the recreational taxes were among the first tax proposals made by the Murphy administration to be outright rejected by legislators on both sides of the aisle.

Cuts to funding for healthcare programs, including Medicaid, remain a concern after the Trump administration and Congressional Republicans proposed hundreds of millions in cuts to the state.

In an election year, especially, its important to understand where the voters stand on some of the top issues in New Jersey, Maurice said. This gives policymakers a blueprint.

The poll took place from April 10 to April 14. It included 667 New Jersey voters and has a 3.8% margin of error.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription.

Jelani Gibson may be reached at jgibson@njadvancemedia.com.
Political commentator Scott Jennings is brought on stage as U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during an event celebrating his first 100 days of his second term at Macomb Community College in Warren, Mich. on Tuesday, April 29 2025. Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com

Republican mouthpiece Scott Jennings has a gig on CNN for basically two reasons: to spin, tell half-truths (and occasionally lie) in defense of Donald Trump and the GOP, and to infuriate Democrats and liberals, who must Windex food off of their flat screen TVs after many of his appearances.

Jennings, who has appeared at Trump rallies, often provides the right-wing spark that the cable network craves for ratings. His battles with Democratic advisor and activist Neera Tanden have been epic.

CNN host Abby Phillip, who referees CNN NewsNight, is usually the one tugging the leash on Jennings, and she did it again on Tuesday night, when Jennings tried to argue that Canada is actually an aggressor in the needless, dumbest global trade war (according to the Wall Street Journal) that Trump has started.

Obviously, he believes in tariffs, Jennings said. He believes there needs to be some sort of tariff relationship. The Canadians, by the way, do put tariffs on things. We dont talk about that much, but they have done it to us.

Phillip cut him off and pointed out that many of the trade deals that Trump is criticizing are agreements that he negotiated.

One of the things that we should say when we talk about the relationship between the United States, Canada and Mexico  we have a trade deal that Donald Trump negotiated, Phillip said. And when Trump talks about the tariffs, for example, dairy that Canada puts on us, what he neglects is to mention is that that only hits at a certain level that we dont really get to.

So he, he paints the picture of Canada sort of, you know, capriciously putting tariffs on us every on everything. We have a trade arrangement that he negotiated. If he had a problem with that, he could have negotiated that away.

The discussion was sparked by the tense Oval Office meeting on Tuesday between Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who left without a trade deal after telling Trump that Canada, which Trump dreams will one day become the 51st state, would never be part of the U.S.

As you know from real estate, there are some places that are never for sale, Carney said. As Trump quietly remarked, Thats true, Carney continued.

And having met with the owners of Canada over the course of the campaign last several months, its not for sale, Carney added. It wont be for sale ever.

Later, when asked what he was thinking as Trump talked about claiming Canada as the 51st state, Carney told reporters: Im glad that you couldnt tell what was going through my mind.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.
Why does the Trump administration keep talking about dolls?

President Donald Trump made waves last week after he suggested that children should have fewer toys as a result of his costly tariffs. The comments sparked widespread backlash online, with many social media users noting that Trump famously had a photoshoot with his son Barron Trumps childhood toys in their New York City penthouse.

I dont think that a beautiful baby girl needs  thats 11 years old  needs to have 30 dolls. I think they can have three dolls or four dolls because what we were doing with China was just unbelievable," Trump told NBCs Kristen Welker over the weekend.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, a wealthy billionaire, defended Trumps comments in a Tuesday appearance on Fox News with host Laura Ingraham. Bessent told little girls who would be sad about having fewer dolls that they would have a better life for it.

I would tell that young girl that You will have a better life than your parents, that you and your family, thanks to President Trump, can now be confident again that you will have a better life than your parents...Your family will own a home, you will be able to advance, you will have a good education, you will have economic freedom, Bessent said. Thats what we are advancing.

Bessent says that little girls who are sad about having fewer dolls should just have it explained to them that they will have a better life for it pic.twitter.com/gyXPlVnXWa  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) May 6, 2025

Bessents comments were immediately roasted by social media users.

Bessent said he would tell a little girl who wants a doll for Christmas but cant get one that she should thank President Trump for making the economy better with tariffs, Trump critic Ron Filipkowski wrote on X.

One user wrote: Whos going to explain to the billionaires that theyll have a better life with just one or two private jets instead of being sad about paying taxes like the rest of us?.

Another user said: Imagine how many girls would have had better lives if multi-gajillionnaires like Bessent paid a lot more in taxes.But, unlike little girls who like dolls, hedge-fund managers absolutely cannot give up the things they like (which is obscene wealth nobody in the world should have).

Trump admitted during his Cabinet meeting last week that prices on some goods will go up.

Trump was quick to blame his Democratic predecessor, Joe Biden, for any setbacks while telling his Cabinet that his tariffs meant China was having tremendous difficulty because their factories are not doing business, adding that the U.S. did not really need imports from the worlds dominant manufacturer.

You know, somebody said, Oh, the shelves are going to be open, Trump continued, offering a hypothetical. Well, maybe the children will have two dolls instead of 30 dolls. So maybe the two dolls will cost a couple bucks more than they would normally.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.
President Donald Trump speaks during an event to announce that the 2027 NFL Draft will be held on the National Mall, in the Oval Office of the White House, Monday, May 5, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump cant stop talking about the 60 Minutes interview with then-Vice President Kamala Harris.

Trump filed a lawsuit against CBSs 60 Minutes last year over how it edited its pre-election interview with Harris despite Trump declining to sit down for an interview with the network at the time. Now, he is railing against the Emmys for nominating the popular investigative show for an award.

On top of that, in a total slap in the face to anyone who believes in TRUTH and Honest Journalism, this Fake News Puff Piece has now been nominated for an award by the totally discredited Emmys. Did 60 Minutes and its Corporate Parents apply to get an Emmy for an illegally falsified interview, or did other Fake Outlets nominate them for this dubious honor?, he wrote on Truth Social.

These antics are why the American People have no trust in the Press, and demand that the Media, very much including 60 Minutes, CBS, and its owners, be held responsible for their corruption and lies, which is exactly what we are doing in Court! he added.

pic.twitter.com/MwhZ7XCkP5  Commentary Donald J. Trump Posts From Truth Social (@TrumpDailyPosts) May 7, 2025

60 Minutes is nominated for Outstanding Edited Interview with Harris ahead of the 2024 election, according to the Emmys website.

Trump has repeatedly complained about the 60 Minutes interview with Harris. Networks regularly edit interviews for length and clarity, and Trump has also participated in a number of edited interviews.

Trump has an ongoing $20 billion lawsuit against 60 Minutes for how it edited an interview with Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris last fall. The president claims it was edited in a way to make Harris look good, something the newscast denies. But there are ongoing reports that Trumps lawyers and CBS parent company are involved in settlement talks.

Brendan Carr and the FCC have launched a parallel investigation of CBS News about the same case, one of several that it has undergone that also involve ABC News, NBC, PBS, NPR and the Walt Disney Co.

Despite the legal battle, 60 Minutes has been unstinting in its coverage of Trumps administration since he took office for a second term, particularly correspondent Scott Pelley. He traveled to Ukraine to conduct an interview with that countrys president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, on the site of a Russian attack where nine children were killed last month.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.
Rapper Kanye West, who has espoused anti-semitism is a friend of President Donald Trump. (SAUL LOEB | AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images

If catching Republicans in their own hypocrisy were, say, a high school varsity sport, most Democrats would have earned Big Ten or SEC scholarships, collected millions in NIL money and would have been voted into countless halls of fame.

Nothing in politics is easier.

Unless, of course, its catching Donald Trump in a lie.

Just ask JD Vance, who called Trump Americas Hitler, before seeing a political future as a MAGA apologist and now vice president.

Or Marco Rubio, who labeled Trump a con man and dangerous and insisted that every Republican who sold his soul to Trump one day would have to answer for their capitulation. Did we mention Rubio now holds four jobs in the Trump administration, including Secretary of State and National Security Advisor?

Sen. Lindsey Graham blamed Trump for the insurrection and swore him off. But you know how that story ends. And there are dozens like it.

And Democrats, when given a chance to shoot GOP fish in a barrel rarely pass it up. Take Rep. Greg Casar of Texas, for example. On Tuesday, during a GOP-sponsored hearing on anti-semitism, he called out his two-faced Congressional colleagues.

Donald Trump said, after neo-Nazis marched through Charlottesville, that there were very fine people on both sides. If you condemn Donald Trump saying this, will you raise your hand? (No Republican representatives did.)

RFK, the head of Health and Human Services, spread an anti-semitic conspiracy theory that COVID was engineered to target white and Black people, but spare Jewish people. If you condemn [him] for spreading an anti-semitic conspiracy theory, will you please raise your hand? (No Republican representatives did.)

Rep. Tim Walberg of Michigan, the chair of the House committee on education and workforce, grew uncomfortable and interrupted, and instructing Casar to ask questions of witnesses. Instead, Casar posed a question to him.

Mr. Chairman ... would you condemn Donald Trump for pardoning a January 6 rioter who praised Hitler and encouraged more killing of Jewish people?

There was no answer.

Clearly, Mr. Chairman, not a single Republican today has been willing to condemn any of this anti-semitism, Casar said. Unfortunately, the party of very fine people on both sides or Jewish space lasers does not give a damn about stopping anti-semitism.

If my Republican colleagues want to stop the spread of anti Semitism, maybe they should stop apologizing for and promoting anti Semites. And with all due respect to the congresswoman from New York who is back to join us, if Republicans want to fight anti Semitism, they shouldnt go groveling to the most anti Semitic president in modern American history.

Trump, while backing Israel, has often made anti-semitic statements or has perpetuated anti-semitic tropes that included references to a Star of David, Jews love of money and blaming synagogue shooting victims, among others.

Trump hosted Kanye West and white nationalist Nick Fuentes for dinner at Mar-a-Lago. Both have made widely condemned antisemitic statements. He has praised Georgie Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, who has trafficked in anti-semitism, including her belief that Jews started California fires with space lasers.

In addition, Trump appointed Ed Martin as interim U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C., despite Martins promotion of the Hitler-loving insurrectionist.

Recently, Trump has threatened to withhold federal funding from colleges that permit pro-Palestinian protests, which Trump called illegal.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.
As Donald Trump sees anti-semitism virtually everywhere  except across the dinner or cabinet table, of course  hes targeting U.S. universities that permitted pro-Palestinian protests over Israels bombing of Gaza; snatching these protesters off the streets and imprisoning them; nominating a Nazi sympathizer to be U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C.; and appointing anti-semitic conspiracy theorist, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., to his cabinet.

And now, he will fight anti-semitism by appointing to the Holocaust Memorial Council a former Real Housewives of New Jersey reality TV star, influencer and matchmaker  whose stepson was charged in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol.

Siggy Flicker, a mouthy member of the cast who was shunned for her support of Trump, was among those named to the committee as Trump tossed out all of former President Joe Bidens appointees before their terms expired.

In addition to RHONJ, Flicker has appeared on national TV programs offering relationship advice. After she and her husband divorced, she acted as his matchmaker.

Flicker has been at Trumps side during campaign rallies and events at Mar-a-Lago. She has danced with him on stage and says she makes no apologies for her unwavering support of the president or her idol, Melania Trump.

Trumps re-election saved America from communism. Am I happy? Are you kidding me? This is Biblical, she told DailyMail.com after the election.

Thank you for the privilege & honor to represent and never forget, Flicker wrote on her Instagram page in response to Trumps announcement. Her profile photo (also highlighted in the Daily Mail article) shows her holding an Israeli flag and standing next to Trump.

In naming members of the council, Trump has followed his usual blueprint  appointing his allies and supporters.

Family support for Trump trickled down to Flickers stepson, Tyler Campanella, who was arrested in April 2024 and charged with five misdemeanors in connection with the Jan. 6 riot at the Capitol.

In the indictment, the FBI provided an Instagram post on Flickers account showing a photo of Campanella inside the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, and the caption, I love patriots so much. Stay safe Tyler. We love you.

According to the Washington Post, Campanella pleaded not guilty to charges including trespassing, disorderly conduct and demonstrating in a restricted building. The case was dismissed when Trump issued pardons on his first day in office to individuals convicted or facing charges for their role in the attack.

Flicker said she was born in Jerusalem during the 1967 war and grew up in Cherry Hill, N.J., attending Monmouth University. Her father warned her to be vigilant against anti-semitism, she said.

Antisemitism is like a cancer, she said he told her. It could stay dormant for many years and sometimes when it comes back and shows its ugly face, you have to be prepared to look at it in the eye and defeat it.

The Council, established by Congress in 1980 to raise private money and build the museum, meets twice a year. It consists of 55 members appointed by the president, as well as five members each from the Senate and House of Representatives and three ex-officio members from the Departments of Education, Interior, and State. Presidential appointments serve for a five-year term; 11 members terms expire each year.

As Trump announced these appointments, Texas Rep. Greg Cesar called out his Congressional colleagues during a GOP-sponsored House hearing on anti-semitism.

If my Republican colleagues want to stop the spread of anti-semitism, maybe they should stop apologizing for and promoting anti-semites, he said, citing RFK Jr. and others supported by Trump. And ... if Republicans want to fight anti-semitism, they shouldnt go groveling to the most anti-semitic president in modern American history.

Trump, while backing Israel, has often made anti-semitic statements or has perpetuated anti-semitic tropes that included references to a Star of David, Jews love of money and blaming synagogue shooting victims, among others.

Trump hosted Kanye West and white nationalist Nick Fuentes for dinner at Mar-a-Lago. Both have made widely condemned antisemitic statements. He has praised Georgie Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, who has trafficked in anti-semitism, including her belief that Jews started California fires with space lasers.

In addition, Trump appointed Ed Martin as interim U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C., despite Martins promotion of a Hitler-loving insurrectionist.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.
President Donald Trump says the United States will celebrate its world war victories, but Americans already get too many days off. AP

Wave the flag, plan your parades, be as patriotic as you know how  just do it on your own time, Donald Trump says.

On Wednesday, Trump spoke more about his vision for United States victory days and military parades to commemorate victories in World War I and World War II, but they wont be national holidays.

Were not going to have days off, because we dont have enough days in the year, Trump said. We have too many celebrations already.

He added: Well have two victory days, World War I and World War II. In the future were going to have a major celebration of each day.

Jonathan Chait, writer for The Atlantic quipped: We will celebrate our military victories by working an extra-long shift in the sock factory.

All Americans should take pride in what these incredible patriots have achieved, so I just want to say, Happy Victory Day to all, Trump said at the White House. We are celebrating every year  I can guarantee for four years, but I think after that, were going to have two victory days, World War I and World War II.

This [May 7] is World War II Victory Day.

In the future, were going to have a major celebration of each day, but those days wont be national holidays, he said.

World War II in Europe ended on May 8, 1945, though the war against Japan continued in the Far East.

World War I ended on Nov. 11, 1918, with an armistice between Germany and the Allies Trump is expected to designate a day for U.S. celebrations of the end of the first world war.

Nov. 11  Veterans Day  is a federal holiday in the United States, and only Congress has the authority to create or rename holidays. Trumps notion to rename Veterans Day was shot down.

Many of our allies and friends are celebrating May 8th as Victory Day, but we did more than any other Country, by far, in producing a victorious result on World War II. I am hereby renaming May 8th as Victory Day for World War II and November 11th as Victory Day for World War I, Trump posted last week on his social media site. We won both Wars, nobody was close to us in terms of strength, bravery, or military brilliance, but we never celebrate anything  Thats because we dont have leaders anymore, that know how to do so! We are going to start celebrating our victories again!

But you aint getting the day off, slacker!

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.
President Donald Trump gestures after giving a commencement address at the University of Alabama, Thursday, May 1, 2025, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) AP

How much would a military parade held on President Donald Trumps birthday cost the U.S. taxpayers?

The U.S. Army is reportedly planning a massive military parade for its 250th anniversary, which happens to fall on Trumps birthday in June. The Associated Press reported last week that a potential parade would call for more than 6,600 soldiers, at least 150 vehicles and 50 helicopters.

Democrats and Trump critics immediately decried Trumps reported plan, with many accusing the administration of wasting taxpayer dollars.

Fox News chief national security correspondent Jennifer Griffin reported Wednesday that the estimated cost of a military parade could be between $25 million and $45 million.

More than 6000 soldiers will be involved in the parade in Washington DC drawn from each Army division. Every single division in the Army will provide several hundred troops, I am told, and the cost will be divided between units, adding to the Army budget at a time when the Defense Secretary has called for 20 percent reduction in General officers as well as savings from combining headquarters, Griffin wrote in a post to social media platform X.

The estimated cost of the Army 250th birthday parade on June 14, which coincides with President Trumps birthday, has grown in size and scale as of two weeks ago and could cost between $25 million and $45 million, according to US defense planners.



More than 6000 soldiers will be  Jennifer Griffin (@JenGriffinFNC) May 7, 2025

She reported that while the Army was planning on having a military parade for more than a year, the scale of it has increased, according to multiple U.S. officials.

When asked about the $45 million price tag during an NBC Meet the Press interview, Trump brushed off the concerns.

Peanuts compared to the value of doing it, Trump said of the cost, according to NBC. We have the greatest missiles in the world. We have the greatest submarines in the world. We have the greatest army tanks in the world. We have the greatest weapons in the world. And were going to celebrate it.

He also told NBCs Kristen Welker that the parade would commemorate Flag Day on June 14.

My birthday happens to be on Flag Day, Trump told Welker in the interview that aired on Sunday. I view it for Flag Day, not necessarily my birthday. Somebody put it together. But no, I think were going to do something on June 14 maybe or somewhere around there. But I think June 14. Its a very important day.

Trump: We will have a big, beautiful parade.



Welker: A military parade?



Trump: Yes.



Welker: Whats the price tag?



Trump: Peanuts compared to the value of doing it pic.twitter.com/CH8hLBTy1Q  Acyn (@Acyn) May 4, 2025

Many social media users are asking what Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is doing about the reported high cost of a parade.

A $45M North Korean-style military parade party for Trumps birthday. Further politicizing our troops. And definitely not efficient. Wheres DOGE on this one? one user wrote.

So much for government efficiency. Disgusting, the group, Republicans Against Trump, wrote.

In his first term, Trump proposed having a parade after seeing one in France on Bastille Day in 2017. Trump said that after watching the two-hour procession along the famed Champs-Elysees that he wanted an even grander one on Pennsylvania Avenue.

That plan was ultimately dumped due to the huge costs  with one estimate of a $92 million price tag  and other logistical issues. Among those were objections from city officials who said including tanks and other heavy armored vehicles would tear up the roads.

Trump said in a social media post in 2018 that he was canceling the event over the costs and accused local politicians of price gouging.

This year, as plans progressed for the Army to host its birthday festival in Washington, talk about a parade began anew.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser acknowledged in April that the administration reached out to the city about holding a parade on June 14 that would stretch from Arlington, Virginia, where the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery are located, across the Potomac River and into Washington.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.
Yankees right-hander Clarke Schmidt went up against a familiar face Tuesday night.

Michael King was back in the Bronx, this time in a Padres uniform for a three-game series against the team with which he made his major-league debut.

King had a solid outing, surrendering two runs over six innings.

Just being able to complete with him, play with him, was a lot of fun, Schmidt said after the Yankees eventual 12-3 win. Hopefully somewhere down the line we can reunite.

Were both very competitive. Its like playing one of your brothers in the backyard.

King spent three years in the Bronx as a reliever for the Yankees before his trade to San Diego, where he was transitioned into a starter.

While with the Yankees in 2022, King suffered an elbow fracture that required season ending surgery. But he put up solid numbers in 2023 that made him an important piece of the seven-player package New York sent to the Padres in exchange for Juan Soto.

In 33 starts for San Diego in 2024, King put up a 2.95 ERA over 173.2 innings pitched.

This year through eight starts, King is posting a 2.22 ERA with 48 strikeouts over 44 2/3 innings.

The Yankees are listed at +900 to win the World Series over on Caesars. Our complete list of New Jersey sportsbook promos will help you decide which sportsbook to use.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription.

Bridget Hyland may be reached at bhyland@njadvancemedia.com.
An employee checks people in at the New York State DMV on April 28 in New York City. May 7th is the upcoming deadline to apply for a REAL ID, which will be required for domestic air travel and access to certain federal facilities. Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images
Six-day (Tuesday through Sunday) print subscribers of the Watertown Daily Times are eligible for full access to NNY360, the NNY360 mobile app, and the Watertown Daily Times e-edition, all at no additional cost.

If you have an existing six-day print subscription to the Watertown Daily Times, please make sure your email address on file matches your NNY360 account email. You can sign up or manage your print subscription using the options below.
A thank you note on the giant bouquet of flowers by artist Luis Colmenares that stands across from East Jefferson General Hospital in Metairie on Wednesday, May 17, 2023. (Photo by Chris Granger | The Times-Picayune | The New Orleans Advocate)
MERRILLVILLE  Food bank volunteer Karen Ruse spends her Saturday mornings loading cars with food delivery boxes outside the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana off Broadway.

In order to serve the hundreds of people who come in their cars each Saturday, the interactions are often quick. Volunteers dont necessarily get to know names or their stories, but they do know faces, and they get hugs.

One lady will get out of her car to get hugs, Ruse said. She picks up food for two other families. She wants hugs from me specifically. I love it, Ill hug anybody.

At a recent fundraising event, the Food Banks annual Soiree, local volunteers described moving, meaningful experiences helping those in need.

Amid busy packaging and loading of food delivery boxes, either at their mobile market or out in the community, volunteers also detect a sense of urgency and imminent crisis as federal funding cuts threaten the ability of the food bank to serve roughly 60,000 hungry families across Lake and Porter Counties.

Its making us nervous, said volunteer Hope Hanford. Were worried we cant serve people who really need it: veterans, seniors, injured people, people who are food insecure, worried about their kids. Were hoping local individuals can dig around their pockets and find donations. We havent seen any changes yet but were afraid.

NWI Food Bank President and CEO Vic Garcia affirmed that the rug had been pulled out from under them via the USDA, in the form of hundreds of thousands of dollars previously allocated to the Emergency Food Assistance Program.

The Food Bank was hoping to raise at least $100,000 at their annual soiree, Garcia said, as the organization looks to private and individual donations to fill in the gap left by the federal government spending freeze.

This event is more important than ever, Garcia said of the fundraiser. Were experiencing some challenges right now with the government funding being cut. Thats definitely having an impact on the amount the food bank has to distribute to friends and neighbors in The Region.

The Food Bank ended up beating its fundraising goal, with a record-breaking $102,000 raised.

The event itself featured a variety of local organizations and chefs who help support the Food Bank in various ways, from Strack & Van Til, who has partnered with the food bank to help deliver holiday meals, to the Region Roots food hub, an arm of the NWI Food Council that helps provide fresh produce for meal deliveries.

Local chefs, including Tammy Pham of Asparagus and ACF Chefs of NWI President Gabe Rosado, prepared meals made from local produce, indicative of the kind of meals recipients can create from the Food Banks delivery boxes.

Food bank board member Tami Pae, who volunteers on weekends (and also gets hugs from recipients), said she felt it was important people realize and understand the high level of need within the community.

During the work week, my biggest question is 'when is this meeting going to be over?' Pae said. Its kind of a joke. Ive never had that fear of where or when my next meal is coming from. Its moving to hear from people (at the delivery sites). Without this, my kids wont have food this week. Im taking care of my ailing mom. Its rewarding to see the impact.

At least one group that remains in need are veterans; cuts to the Department of Veterans Affairs threaten health care and other assistance to the veteran community, experts have warned.

Food bank volunteer and retired veteran Janie Little noted that although you cant always tell who is (or isnt) a veteran on the line waiting for food, there is plenty of worry within the community whether veterans will be able to receive the benefits they need.

We often take things for granted, Little said, who added she also does volunteer work with the American Legion in Gary. It warms my heart to see how thankful people are. But volunteer work is something everyone should do, in order to see the real world. People looking for their next meal. If youre in your own world, you dont see the need thats out there.

The Food Bank of Northwest Indiana is located at 6490 Broadway, Merrillville. Those interested in learning more about volunteering opportunities or other questions can go to foodbanknwi.org.
CROWN POINT  A former client of a Region immigration attorney alleges he took advantage of her vulnerability and immigration status when he attempted to coerce her into a relationship with him in 2023, according to a lawsuit filed Friday in Lake Superior Court's Civil Division.

Lawyers for Fatima Rodriguez filed the lawsuit against Merrillville immigration attorney Alfredo Estrada and his employer Burke, Costanza and Carberry more than one month after the Indiana Judicial Disciplinary Commission filed a case against him for trying to pursue a relationship with her and offering her money unrelated to his handling of her and her family's immigration matters. Rodriguez is suing for compensatory and punitive damages, plus other fees related to emotional distress and negligence.

The document details various allegations of inappropriate conduct, including a recorded phone call in which Estrada allegedly tells Rodriguez he wants to have sex with her, have a relationship and be her "sugar daddy." Rodriguez reportedly declined Estrada's other "personal and social invitations" but was scared her rejections could jeopardize her family's immigration case.

According to the legal complaint, Rodriguez was a teenager when she first met Estrada in July 2018 after her father had hired him to represent the family in their quest to secure a U-Visa, which is a non-resident visa offered to victims of particular crimes who cooperate with law enforcement authorities. The terms of the visa allow recipients to apply for permanent residency after three years.

The unwelcomed advances did not begin, however, until a few years after her father hired Estrada, the lawsuit alleges.

Rodriguez often went with her father to meet with Estrada because her father was not fluent in English. After she turned 18 in 2020, she was the family's primary contact with Estrada and hired him herself one year later to pursue residency through the Deferred Arrivals for Childhood Arrivals program, known as DACA, which offers children of undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States a work permit and protection from deportation for two years. One's DACA status must be renewed every two years.

However, she was deemed ineligible under the program and was not able to work because she did not have the proper legal documentation. Estrada offered her opportunities for "under the table" payment as a Spanish translator or to clean homes, including an offer to clean at the law firm or at his own residence, the lawsuit alleges. In January 2023, Estrada called Rodriguez and asked if she wanted to meet for a meal to discuss the employment opportunities. She declined the invitation.

"If I remember correctly, you are married," she told him, the complaint said.

During the next four months, the two discussed other employment options for Rodriguez, such as an over-the-phone or in-person translation job for Estrada's office, but Rodriguez declined the latter because she would have had to travel with him to Union City and spend the night there.

"During all these conversations, defendant Estrada was aware the plaintiff was having ongoing difficulties regarding employment, transportation and monetary and family difficulties, and also that she was fearful of her and her family's immigration status," the lawsuit alleges. "He was also aware that the plaintiff was reliant on him as a source of both legal and personal advice."

After Estrada supposedly sent Rodriguez a screenshot of something she posted on TikTok and looked at her whereabouts via her Instagram, she downloaded a call recording app on her phone to monitor future "unwanted advances."

In May 2023, Estrada called Rodriguez and made the comments about engaging in a sexual relationship with her, which she recorded. Shortly thereafter, he left her a message and said he received work authorizations for her and her father, according to the legal complaint.

He continued to contact her over text for the next few weeks until she fired him, the document said. She then reached out to the United States Attorney's Office and Department of Homeland Security to see if she was eligible for a T-visa because she might have been a victim of attempted human trafficking. The DHS defines human trafficking as the use of force, fraud or coercion to obtain some type of labor or commercial sex act, according to their website.

While officials said they were not able to pursue the visa nor criminal charges, they found her allegations against Estrada credible, the document shows.

When reached by phone Tuesday morning, Estrada declined to comment on the case or on his employment status with the law firm. In an email from Estrada's attorney James Bell sent April 2, Bell said he would not comment on the pending disciplinary case. Rodriguez's attorney, Walter Alvarez, also declined to comment on the lawsuit because of the pending disciplinary case.

No further court dates have been scheduled for the disciplinary case or the lawsuit, online records show.
I know a few boomers who talk about the time they saw Bruce Springsteen play a college gym before his band got big. I know one who says he gave Jean-Michel Basquiat $5 for a postcard on Prince Street one night in 1979, another who says he started in with Raymond Carver when Carver was still writing for his college literary magazine out at Humboldt State.

Their stories are nostalgic, sepia-toned, but no less thrilling for that. What a thing to see the future in the present, something big when it is still small, still forming, all promise.

Generation X got, among other things, Torrisi Italian Specialties, a tone poem about Italian American cooking that opened on Mulberry Street in Manhattan at the very end of 2009 and closed five years and one day later. The owners were Rich Torrisi and Mario Carbone, New York cooks from Cafe Boulud whod met in culinary school and shared a singular dream. It wasnt to run a restaurant with fewer than 20 seats.

But how great it was when they were doing just that. Their Major Food Group would come along soon enough with Carbone and Dirty French and exclusive clam bars, private clubs and black Escalades out front. Before all that it was no reservations and wait your turn for food that was landscape-changing and American-born: salami toast spread thick with baccala and cured lemon; sweet ravioli with a tang of red wine vinegar and the low hum of salty chicken liver; crisp Long Island duck skin over buttery fat and ruddy meat; a tart grapefruit icey; a plate of perfect Italian cookies. This was amazing to experience. As the man in the only photograph in the restaurant sang, Only the good die young.
In late 2015, I crossed 10 borders, over 2,500 miles of land and sea, to reach France, where I live today in exile. While the government has announced some Syrian refugees can now return, my refugee paperwork says I cant go back. I worry if I return to my country, I could lose my right to live in France, where Ive spent the past nine years rebuilding my life. I feel like a stranger with no homeland. Its as if I leaped from one edge toward another but never landed, suspended in midair.
The 25,000 residents of Lice, a town in Turkeys Diyarbakr province, involuntarily got high after police burned tens of tons of seized cannabis in the town center.

On April 18, Turkish authorities conducted an operation to burn over 20 tons of confiscated cannabis in Lice, which caused the air in the settlement to become thick with weed smoke. For at least five days, people couldnt leave their windows open and avoided going out, for fear of becoming intoxicated and experiencing symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and hallucinations. The destroyed cannabis, valued at 10 billion Turkish Lira ($261,433,808), weighed 20 tons 766 kilos 679 grams and had been seized from all over Diyarbakr province during 2023 and 2024.

The smell of drugs has been enveloping the district for days, a local man complained. We cannot open our windows. Our children got sick, we are constantly going to the hospital.

The Chairman of the Yesil Yldz Association, Yahya Oger said that, although the success achieved by authorities in the fight against drugs is important, the manner in which the cannabis was destroyed was incorrect. He emphasized that arranging the bags of weed to form the name of the town, LICE, in burning letters only added insult to injury.

This was perhaps done as a preventive measure to deter, but the fact that it was destroyed in the city center could cause serious discomfort to people due to the smoke of burned hemp, Oger told reporters, adding that his association recommends that police dispose of the cannabis in factories with filtered chimnies, to prevent the smoke from affecting the local population.

As you know, the destruction or burning of such herbs can also cause serious intoxication, Oger explained. Just as tobacco harms passive smokers when used in a closed area, the smoke released by such narcotic substances when disposed of can cause serious discomfort to people on the other side. It can make people drunk, dizzy, nauseated, and cause hallucinations.
Crisis communicators from across three continents exchanged ideas and highlighted the best practices that succeed in the evolving political geopolitical landscape at the Crisis and Litigation Communicators Alliance conference conference in New York that wrapped up today.

CLCA is an international alliance of specialist PR firms who are experts in crisis and litigation communications counsel in their respective markets.

Andrew Frank, founder & president of the New York-based crisis firm KARV, hosted the conference at the Manhattan office of the law firm Greenberg Traurig LLP.

He said the meeting provided a great opportunity to keep updated about trends in the worlds of crisis and legal communications, and to learn from each others work.

Jack Devine, founder/chairman of The Arkin Group and a three-decade veteran of the CIA, addressed the group as a keynote speaker. He spoke about how fear is the ingredient that keeps autocratic rulers like Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping in power. Autocratic governments are in a much greater risk of destabilizing when the fear factor is removed, he said.

(L-R) Jack Devine, founder/chairman of The Arkin Group, Martin Jenewein, senior partner at SMJ Partners, Andrew Frank, founder/ president KARV.

Devine predicted a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. Its absolutely amazing that the Ukrainians stayed in the battle as long as they have, and the Russians have paid a huge price in blood and treasure to get to what is now virtually a stalemate, he said. This creates the right conditions for at least an armistice and eventual ceasefire agreement.

Greenberg Traurig shareholders walked the attendees through the intricacies of the US legal system, such as the difference between government and private practice, and shared their experiences in both sectors.

Outgoing CLCA chair Martin Jenewein, senior partner at Viennas SMJ Partners, said the conference is both a tradition and strategic thought exercise.

Each of our representatives is at the top of our field, with a highly specialized knowledge of their own countrys system of media relations and crisis and litigation communications, he said. The benefits we jointly receive from this expertise is invaluable, enabling us to collaborate on best strategies, anticipate emerging risks, and discuss responses to the worlds most complex challenges.

Nicolai Frederik Bonnen Rossen, managing partner at Copenhagens Rossen & Co., is CLCAs incoming chair. He looks forward to building on the work that was done at the conference.

"With disputes increasingly debated or decided outside of the courts of law and fueled by public opinion, litigation communications has become a growing necessity, he said.

All parties within a dispute should ideally be provided this opportunity, and I am eager to help realize this objective in conjunction with my colleagues across the globe.

View O'Dwyer's Special Issue on Crisis Communications.
TRAVELLING by train appears to be growing in popularity in Offaly as more people choose the comfort of rail travel over the stress of driving. With growing frustration over long traffic delays, many commuters and travellers are turning to trains as a more convenient alternative avoiding long delays on roads.

According to the latest Census figures, a total of 1,834 people used Tullamore Railway Station on Census day November 14, 2024, up from 1,395 on the year before, a 31% increase.

Tullamore had a total of 962 boardings on the day, up from 685 in 2023. This was a 41% increase.

Of those boardings, 705 were described as heading towards Heuston and 257 were described as travelling to Athlone and beyond.

There were a total of 872 alightings in Tullamore in 2024, up 23% from the previous year's figure of 710. Of the 872 disembarking, 624 got off of trains heading towards Athlone and further afield and 248 departed from services heading towards Heuston.

Meanwhile, Clara Railway Station saw a total of 405 passengers using train services on Census day. This was up 63% from the 249 users in 2023.

There were 221 boardings as 153 passengers got on Heuston-bound trains and 68 boarded services to Athlone and beyond. This was a 78% increase in the figures from the year before.

There were 204 alightings as 61 passengers got off trains heading towards Heuston and 143 alighted from services heading in the Athlone direction.

The total number of alightings was up 63% from the 2023 number of 125.

2024 was a record year for rail travel in Ireland. There were 50.7m passenger journeys in 2024 recorded by Irish Rail. This is the highest in the history of the state.

READ NEXT: Modern high support unit for Tullamore to progress to tender
A community in Offaly is being invited to a public consultation on a proposed battery storage project in their area.

SSE is hosting a public consultation evening on Thursday, May 8 for the proposed Tinnycross battery energy storage system (BESS), to be located north-east of Tullamore. The event will be held at St Marys Youth and Community Centre, Harbour Street, Tullamore from 2:30pm to 8:30pm.



Tinnycross BESS (formerly known as Thornsberry BESS) is a proposed, grid-scale 120MW/240MWh battery energy storage system to be located on a greenfield site. The project would be capable of powering the equivalent of over 115,000 Irish homes for up to two hours at a time, during times of peak demand. Tinnycross BESS would also help balance the national grid, provide backup energy when the wind isnt blowing, or the sun isnt shining.



Its anticipated the project can play an important role in providing the flexible power storage Ireland needs to back up a renewables-led energy system, improving our energy security, and meeting decarbonisation commitments under Irelands Climate Action Plans.



The project is expected to provide economic benefits to the region, including the payment of development contributions and commercial rates, which would support essential local authority services in County Offaly.



Members of the SSE Renewables project team will be available at the consultation evening to provide more information, answer questions, and gather feedback. In addition to the in-person event, project materials and an online feedback form will be available on the project website from May 8 until May 29. Residents can access these materials and submit their feedback at www.sserenewables.com/tinnycross during this period.

READ NEXT: Offaly man conferred with Professional Certificate at event in Dublin Castle



Ghislain Demeuldre, Ireland Head of Onshore Wind, Solar and Battery Development, SSE Renewables, said, "battery storage has a vital role to play in helping Ireland decarbonise its electricity system by storing the increasing levels of renewable energy generated from sources like solar and wind farms. Tinnycross will bring a range of benefits and opportunities to the local community and economy through direct and indirect job creation, supporting the local supply chain and commercial rates contributions. We are eager to meet with the local community and get their feedback on our plans to develop Tinnycross BESS."



Tinnycross BESS was acquired by SSE in late 2024 as a fully consented battery energy storage project. A revised planning application will be submitted to Offaly County Council to reflect updates in the design of the project. Subject to receiving the necessary planning consent and a final investment decision by SSE, the project could enter construction and be operational by the end of the decade.



For more information or any queries about the project or consultation evening, please contact the Community Liaison Team at clo@sse.com.
FOUR tourism projects in Offaly will benefit from funding amounting to over 1.5 million awarded under the EU Just Transition Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme.

Offaly has been allocated the largest funding amount of all eligible countys in this round of the scheme and the four projects to benefit are: Shannon Bank Park Trustees Community Group - 616,700 to rejuvenation Banagher Open Water Pool and offer an improved visitor experience, ensuring it is safe and accessible for all users; Sloe Blossom Farm - 300,000 for the development of tourism accommodation; Croghan Hill Glamping - 80,776 for the delivery of four self-catering, eco-friendly furnished glamping pods; and Waterways Ireland - 520,000 to increase the mooring capacity at Shannon Harbour with fixed jetty to facilitate more visitors and enhance visitor experience.

Fine Gael TD for Offaly, John Clendennen has warmly welcomed the announcement by Failte Ireland. Funding of this nature is transformative for the projects involved and is no less than Offaly deserves, said Deputy Clendennen. Part of the EU Just Transition Fund programme, co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union, this marks the second announcement of successful projects under both the Private and Community SME scheme, and the Local Authority and State Agency scheme.

The EU Just Transition Fund (JTF) was created to support the regions and communities in Europe that are most negatively affected by the transition to climate neutrality and to promote socio-economic transition, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Just this week in the Dail, I advocated for further Community Benefit Funding Schemes and highlighted the nearly 700 job losses suffered in the county due to the energy transition, which is the highest in Ireland. An investment of this nature is very welcome and such funding schemes must continue to support Offaly, said Deputy Clendennen

I would like acknowledge and thank Minister Peter Burke for his support with this significant funding allocation for Offaly, and congratulate those projects that have received funding. I look forward to seeing them proceed towards development.

READ NEXT: More Offaly people opting to use trains

In all 15 tourism projects were awarded over 4.2 million under Failte Irelands Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme.

13 of these projects represent the latest private and community SMEs to have signed Investment Grant Agreements with Failte Ireland, receiving over 2.6 million in grant-aid to deliver projects across four regenerative tourism development categories. Further projects are expected to be announced under this scheme in the coming weeks, as evaluations of applications are completed.

Over 1.5 million in funding has been awarded to two projects under the Local Authority and State Agency scheme, which aims to deliver improved tourism infrastructure, facilities and visitor experiences, including those that can be leveraged by the private and community sectors.

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke TD said: "I am pleased to see today's announcement of further investment in projects by Government through Failte Ireland and the EU Just Transition Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme. The EU Just Transition Fund scheme is supporting sustainable economic development and job creation in communities and businesses across the Midlands. I look forward to seeing these projects develop over the next year and to announce further successful projects for the Midlands over the coming weeks and months under this funding scheme.

Minister for Climate, Environment and Energy Darragh OBrien TD said: I welcome the latest announcement by Failte Ireland of investments in projects under the EU Just Transition Fund Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme. These projects, which will deliver improved tourism infrastructure, facilities and visitor experiences, will play a key role in the regenerative tourism development journey in the Midlands. I look forward to the delivery of the projects and to witnessing their positive impact across the Midlands region.

CEO of Failte Ireland, Paul Kelly said: Its fantastic to see even more tourism businesses and communities benefit from this transformative Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme. The 15 projects announced today highlight the significant opportunities that initiatives like the EU Just Transition Fund can bring to the midlands.

This investment of over 4.2million will help sustain local communities by creating new opportunities for employment, empowering local businesses, and providing more reasons for domestic and international tourists to visit Irelands Hidden Heartlands and Irelands Ancient East.

We look forward to further collaboration with local tourism businesses and communities, the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly (EMRA) and our strategic partners to deliver this wide range of projects under the EU Just Transition Fund Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme.

A/Director of the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly (EMRA) Clare Bannon said "This is an exciting announcement today that an additional 15 tourism projects are receiving funding from the Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme. EMRA is delighted to be working with Failte Ireland in administering this EU Just Transition funded scheme to bring direct support from the EU to the local level. These projects join an ever-expanding list of fantastic EU Just Transition Fund supported initiatives from local groups and businesses across the Midlands that are enabling growth and diversification of opportunities in the region."

READ NEXT: Community in Offaly invited to public consultation on Thursday on proposed battery storage project
Last year, a group of Self Help Africa supporters from various parts of Ireland took part in a walking challenge, completing 115km of the Camino de Santiago, over six days along the French Way Camino into Santiago. Ronan Scully, an organiser of the event and an avid walker, shares his experience as well as requesting people to join him later this year from August 10th to August 18th to walk The Way along the Camino Del Norte route into Santiago and raise much needed funds for Self Help Africa.

For centuries, pilgrims from all over the world have walked along Spains Camino de Santiago, following the many paths to Santiago de Compostela and the tomb of St. James.

Myself and sixteen amazing Self Help Africa supporters walked the last 115km of the French Way, starting in a town called Sarria and finishing in Santiago de Compostela, as all the Camino routes do. This region of Spain is called Galicia and it has prolonged rainy periods, but we were lucky with the weather - almost every day the sun was shining except maybe for one day, mostly not a poncho in sight!

We walked through beautiful forests, farmyards, villages and countryside - saw goats, horses and even a few pigs on the loose (as some of us were urban dwellers, this caused much excitement). Occasionally youd come across a stand in the middle of nowhere, selling cold drinks, fruit or trinkets - never did I think Id be seeing some of my fellow walkers/pilgrims buying a pair of earrings and bracelets in the middle of a Spanish forest!

READ NEXT: Well known Offaly journalist to feature on popular RTE television programme

There is a spirit of community on the Camino that connects everyone. Within days you will have walked alongside, talked to, and had dinner with many fellow pilgrims. Even if you begin alone, soon you will be surrounded by new friends from all corners of the globe. A community ebbs and flows around you; you never know when someone might disappear. I quickly learned to appreciate my time with others.

"Being on the journey with so many genuine, like-minded, kind, compassionate, open minded, fun, caring (and hilarious) souls - restores your faith in humanity!" said another member of the group.

Walking 115km in six days is no easy feat, but you dont have to be an experienced hiker or super athlete, anybody can take part. Our group all walked at different paces, but everyone we travelled with and met along the way were so genuine, supportive and kind. There is a like-mindedness and camaraderie, as youre all on the same path, working towards the same destination. Amidst the crazy world we live in, it restored my faith in humanity and helped us all raise funds for such a great cause.

Whether walking the Camino for religious or spiritual reasons, or to discover its natural beauty and heritage, its a trip of a lifetime. It genuinely felt like being in a bubble of joy and peace for the week, where all you were thinking about was getting from A to B, enjoying the scenery along the way. You felt a real accomplishment at the end of each day - it was so nice to slow down, switch off, meet new people, reflect on one's life and spend time outdoors.

The Camino really is a beautiful journey. Pilgrims come in and out of your life, sharing moments that become imprinted on your heart forever. As I walked, I began to hear the "whys" people were on their Camino journey, such as to reach a goal, to make a decision, to pray, to reflect, revise and refocus, to forgive and many other reasons. In these wonderful and fleeting moments, pilgrims were vulnerable with me. They trusted me to hear their story.

After some time, I even did it myself. I began to share things long hidden in my heart. To my surprise, my life journey and ideas were met not with judgement, but with curiosity, reflectiveness, compassion and encouragement. It was not so hard to open up, after all. I now see that vulnerability is actually synonymous with strength and courage. I was so thankful and blessed to be surrounded by these amazing sixteen Self Help Africa supporters and pilgrims who were also raising funds for our work in Africa and who clicked along with their walking sticks and bouncing backpacks and we also registered the presence of fellow travellers along the way and their fabulousness.

READ NEXT: Offaly columnist urges us to embrace life with enthusiasm

"Impossible to put into words how much this week meant to me, and on top of what I got out of it - I met so many fab people." said another team member.

I managed to finish up pretty unscathed; a little bit of a small blister was starting to show on the last day, and my feet were aching a little bit - but legs up the wall (of the hotel room) helped to relieve them. I also learnt that zig-zagging your way down hills is easier on the knees! Plus my heart and soul was bursting with pride and joy at finishing my Camino journey along the picturesque French Way.

Santiago de Compostela, where the Camino finishes, is a beautiful city and its tradition to finish the walk by attending the pilgrims mass in the Cathedral. Having completed 110kms, and getting our Camino passport stamped in each town along the way, we were delighted to receive an official Compostela certificate from the Pilgrims Reception Office, as recognition of our achievement.

Were proud to have collectively raised much needed funds for Self Help Africa and grateful to all who sponsored us and sent words of support and encouragement along the way.

The Camino is a truly unique experience that inspires many, even after their journey is over. I often tell people that what I found on the Camino was a quiet peaceful place, a simple reminder of the way life could be. Some would say that it is something to hold on to when times are hard.

READ NEXT: Offaly based cycling club launches annual Peatlands Tour

In finishing let me leave you with The Beatitudes of a Walker that are helping me on my journey of life. 1. Blessed are you a walker, if you discover that your walk opens your eyes to what is not seen. 2. Blessed are you a walker, if what concerns you most is not to arrive, as to arrive with others. 3. Blessed are you a walker, when you contemplate your walk and you discover it is full of names and dawns. 4. Blessed are you a walker, because you have discovered that the authentic walk begins when it is completed. 5. Blessed are you a walker, if your knapsack is emptying of things and your heart does not know where to hang up so many feelings and emotions. 6. Blessed are you a walker, if you discover that one step back to help another is more valuable than a hundred forward without seeing what is at your side. 7. Blessed are you a walker, when you dont have words to give thanks for everything that surprises you at every twist and turn of the way. 8. Blessed are you a walker, if you search for the truth and make of your walk a life and of your life a way in search of the One who is the Way, the Truth and the Life. 9. Blessed are you a walker, if on the way you meet yourself and gift yourself with time, without rushing, so as not to disregard the image in your heart. 10. Blessed are you a walker, if you discover that your walk holds a lot of silence, and the silence of prayer, and the prayer of meeting with God who is waiting for you to dwell with Him.

If youre interested in walking the Camino de Santiago for Self Help Africa in 2025 from August 10th to August 18th, e-mail ronan.scully@selfhelpafrica.org to find out more see www.selfhelpafrica.org for further details about the Camino trip and about our work.
Steven Sahiounie, journalist and political commentator

Twenty-two years have passed since the American invasion of Iraq, which destroyed the country, and Iraq has never recovered. The U.S. spent more than $1 trillion and lost about 4,500 troops in the effort to change the regime, which allowed American companies to loot the energy resources in Iraq.

According to former Saudi Foreign Minister Saud Bin Faisal, America gifted Iraq to Iran on a golden platter. Iranian and American meddling is still the source of instability in Iraq today.

Iraq's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein confirmed that the Arab Summit will be held in Baghdad on May 17. The Middle East region is in turmoil from Gaza, Lebanon, Syria and Iran.

Steven Sahiounie of MidEastDiscourse interviewed Dr. Laith Shubbar, a political scientist and academic who has authored numerous studies on post-2003 Iraq, focusing on sectarianism, governance challenges, and the impact of foreign interventions.

1. Steven Sahiounie (SS): Iran and the U.S. began negotiations concerning the nuclear program in Iran. In your view, what are the implications for Iraq?

Dr. Laith Shubbar (LS): The renewed negotiations between Iran and the U.S. over Iran's nuclear program carry significant implications for Iraq, given its geopolitical position and deep ties with both nations. Iraq has long been a theater for U.S.-Iranian competition, and any progress or failure in these talks will directly impact its stability. A successful deal could ease regional tensions, potentially reducing Iran's reliance on proxy militias in Iraq as a deterrent against U.S. influence, which might lead to a temporary de-escalation of militia activities. However, it could also embolden Iran's political influence in Baghdad, as sanctions relief would strengthen Tehran's economic leverage over Iraq, particularly through energy exports. Conversely, a collapse in talks could escalate U.S.-Iranian tensions, with Iraq likely becoming a flashpoint for proxy conflicts, as seen in past militia attacks on U.S. forces. Iraq's government, already navigating a delicate balance between Washington and Tehran, will face increased pressure to align with one side, risking internal political fragmentation. Ultimately, Iraq's sovereignty and stability hinge on its ability to insulate itself from being a pawn in this geopolitical chess game.

2. SS: On December 8, 2024, the 24-year dynasty of the Assad regime fell in Damascus. In your opinion, how did this affect Iraq?

LS: The fall of the Assad regime on December 8, 2024, sent shockwaves across the region, profoundly impacting Iraq. The collapse of a key Iranian ally weakened Tehran's regional axis, disrupting the logistical and strategic corridor that connected Iran to Hezbollah via Syria. For Iraq, this has both security and political ramifications. On one hand, the power vacuum in Syria raises concerns about cross-border instability, particularly in Iraq's western regions, where remnants of ISIS or other insurgent groups could exploit the chaos. Iraqi security forces are already on high alert, as seen in recent anti-smuggling operations in Deir ez-Zor. On the other hand, the diminished Iranian influence could provide Iraq with an opportunity to assert greater autonomy from Tehran's grip, especially if Iran-backed militias lose some of their regional clout. However, this also complicates Iraq's relations with Sunni Arab states, who may push for a stronger anti-Iranian stance, potentially exacerbating Iraq's sectarian tensions. The Iraqi government must tread carefully to prevent internal divisions and external pressures from destabilizing its fragile recovery.

3. SS: Beginning in 2003, the U.S. attacked, invaded, occupied, and destroyed Iraq. Iraq has not recovered socially or politically, and the infrastructure remains not fully restored. In your view, what are the reasons that Iraq has not recovered after decades?

LS: The U.S. invasion of 2003 dismantled Iraq's state institutions, unleashing a cascade of challenges that continue to hinder recovery. First, the disbandment of the Iraqi army and the de-Baathification process created a power vacuum, fueling sectarian violence and insurgency, which fractured social cohesion. Second, the occupation's mismanagement, coupled with widespread corruption among post-2003 Iraqi elites, diverted resources from reconstruction to personal enrichment, leaving infrastructure in disrepair. Third, Iraq's dependence on oil revenues has stifled economic diversification, making it vulnerable to global price fluctuations and unable to fund comprehensive recovery. Politically, the imposition of a sectarian quota system entrenched divisions, prioritizing loyalty over competence and paralyzing governance. External interference, particularly from Iran and the U.S., has further complicated Iraq's ability to forge a unified national identity. Finally, the rise of ISIS and subsequent conflicts devastated entire regions, undoing modest gains. Recovery requires addressing these root causes-- corruption, sectarianism, and foreign meddling-- while investing in human capital and infrastructure, but successive governments have lacked the vision or will to do so.

4. SS: The Iran-supported Iraqi militias had made statements they would disarm to avoid further conflict. In your view, what is the current situation concerning them?

LS: The statements by Iran-backed Iraqi militias, such as Kata'ib Hezbollah and Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba, about potential disarmament reflect a pragmatic response to heightened U.S. pressure under the Trump administration. Reports indicate that some militia leaders are engaging with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani to explore disarmament to avoid U.S. airstrikes, with some groups already reducing their presence in cities like Mosul and Anbar. However, this is likely a tactical maneuver rather than a genuine commitment to disband. These militias, integrated into Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces, remain a powerful political and military force, with deep ties to Iran's IRGC. Their willingness to disarm hinges on guarantees of political influence and immunity from prosecution, which complicates negotiations. Moreover, internal divisions among militia factions-- some prioritizing Iraqi sovereignty, others loyal to Tehran-- could undermine any agreement. The current situation is fluid, with militias balancing survival against their strategic role in Iran's regional agenda, while Iraq's government struggles to assert control without triggering backlash.

5. SS: The next Arab League Summit will be held in Baghdad. In your view, what will be the expectations of the summit?

LS: The upcoming Arab League Summit in Baghdad is a significant opportunity for Iraq to reassert its role in the Arab world and strengthen regional ties. Expectations will center on Iraq's ability to project stability and leadership despite its internal challenges. Key agenda items will likely include addressing the fallout from the Assad regime's collapse, coordinating counterterrorism efforts against resurgent extremist groups, and fostering economic cooperation, particularly in energy and trade. Iraq will seek to balance its relations with Iran and Arab states, positioning itself as a mediator in regional disputes, such as Saudi-Iranian tensions. However, the summit's success hinges on Iraq's ability to manage sectarian divisions and ensure security, given the risk of militia interference. Arab states will expect concrete commitments from Iraq to curb Iranian influence, while Iraq will push for investment and support for reconstruction. The summit could mark a turning point for Iraq's reintegration into the Arab fold, but only if it navigates these complex dynamics effectively.

Next Page 1 | 2

(Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher).
By Joel D. Joseph, author of Black Mondays:

Worst Decisions of the Supreme Court

U.S. District Court Judge Beryl Howell ruled on May 2, 2025, that President Trump's executive order targeting the Perkins Coie law firm was unconstitutional. On behalf of the Biden campaign, Perkins Coie filed responses to 65 court cases brought by President Trump challenging the 2020 election results. Perkins Coie won 64 of these cases. It is for that reason that President Trump issued Executive Order 14320 on March 6, 2025, specifically naming Perkins Coie for its representation of President Biden. This executive order attempts to punish the firm by taking away security clearances and prohibiting it from obtaining government contracts.

Judge Howell ruled the executive order to be unconstitutional: "Using the powers of the federal government to target lawyers for their representation of clients and avowed progressive employment policies in an overt attempt to suppress and punish certain viewpoints, however, is contrary to the Constitution, which requires that the government respond to dissenting or unpopular speech or ideas with 'tolerance, not coercion'." Judge Howell found that the executive order violates the First (free speech) , Fifth (due process) and Sixth (right to an attorney of your choice) amendments to the Constitution.

Bills of Attainder and Ex Post Facto Laws

A bill of attainder is a legislative act that declares a person or group guilty of a crime and imposes punishment without a trial, which is prohibited in the United States by Article I, Section 9, and Article I, Section 10, of the Constitution. Article 1, Section 9, Clause 3, provides: "No Bill of Attainder or ex post facto Law shall be passed."

An ex post facto law is a law that retroactively changes the legal consequences or status of actions that were committed, or relationships that existed, before the enactment of the law. In criminal, it may criminalize actions that were legal when committed.

Because Perkins Coie did not raise the issue of the executive order violating the constitutional prohibition of bills of attainder and ex post facto laws, Judge Howell did not rule on that basis. However Article I, Section 9 of the Constitution, clearly outlaws bills of attainder and ex post facto laws.

The Justice Department argued before Judge Howell that the president's executive order did not run afoul of Article I, Section 9, because that article applies to Congress not the President. However, the principle applies to legislative acts and an executive order is a Presidential legislative act.

Executive Orders

The Constitution does not mention executive orders. The number and extent of executive orders has increased dramatically over the past 249 years. The first was issued by letter dated June 8, 1789, asking executive department heads to provide "a full precise, and distinct general idea of the affairs of the United States" they oversaw. President Washington issued eight executive orders, John Adams one, President Jefferson four, Madison one, Monroe one and John Quincy Adams three. In stark contrast, President Trump has issued 147 during his first 100 days. These facts were provided by the American Presidency Project, University of California, Santa Barbara.

President Trump is usurping the role of Congress by issuing executive orders where legislation should be enacted. Congress gave the president the authority to impose tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA, 50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq. However, Congress did not give the president the power to punish lawyers or universities.

Trump's executive orders that target law firms and universities are bills of attainder and ex post facto laws because they target a person or group "guilty" of doing something that the president did not like. These orders are therefore unconstitutional under Article I, Section 9 of the U.S. Constitution.
Oregons fire marshal is collaborating with a nonprofit backed by the insurance industry to help Oregonians protect their homes from burning and keep their premiums from rising.

State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple signed a memorandum of agreement Friday with Roy Wright, CEO of the South Carolina-based Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, which oversees the Wildfire Prepared certification program. The program offers homeowners in California, and now Oregon, certificates for undertaking specific wildfire prevention work around their homes.

In turn, insurers could incorporate certification into their calculus for rates and premiums, helping to curb the rising cost of property insurance, which has grown 30% since 2020, according to the states Department of Consumer and Business Services.

For Gov. Tina Kotek, the memorandum is about making sure Oregonians can keep getting property insurance, period.

What I think is important for us is that we continue to have insurance for our homeowners here, despite the wildfire risk. Thats not true in other states, she said at a news conference Monday. We also want the price to come down, but at a minimum we need to have insurance for our homeowners.

The California Department of Insurance requires insurance companies operating in the state to offer discounts for wildfire mitigation work. The Oregon Legislature hasnt passed similar requirements, but Kotek said thats not necessary yet.

We still have an insurance market. California is really struggling to maintain insurance coverage. Thats not our issue right now, she said. I think by working with the insurance industry and (implementing) best practices for communities, were going to have a different relationship than they have in California.

Besides offering certificates for wildfire prevention work, the state and the association will partner on research, educational opportunities for Oregonians around home hardening and defensible space and offering post-wildfire analysis.

The Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, an independent nonprofit backed by major insurers including State Farm and Farmers Insurance, offers two different Wildfire Prepared certificates: one for older homes being retrofitted to withstand fire and one for newer homes being built to withstand fires.

The certificates apply only to single-family homes three stories or less, and the person who applies for the certification has to own the home. Townhomes, condos, multiplexes and apartment buildings are not eligible, and the process cant be started by a renter.

The main requirement homeowners must meet is clearing a 5-foot buffer around the home and any deck, leaving no combustible material. That means no trees, overhanging branches, mulch, grass, turf, wood or vinyl fencing can be within 5 feet of a home or deck.

After work is completed, homeowners submit $125 along with an application that includes photos of their work. Inspectors at the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety review the photos and, if approved, a third party inspector follows up to visit and confirm the work has been done, or document what more should be done.

Homeowners who are certified must submit photos annually showing they are maintaining their defensible space buffer and they must get recertified every three years.

In a news release, Oregons Insurance Commissioner Andrew Stolfi said the certification should eventually help Oregonians keep and afford insurance.

When consumers and the state invest in reducing wildfire risk, insurers  guided by data and science  should reflect that progress in rating and underwriting, helping to keep coverage available and affordable for Oregonians, he said.

Investment or incentives from the Legislature that might help Oregonians with the costs of home hardening, however, has lagged. In 2021, following the catastrophic 2020 Labor Day Fires, the Legislature allocated more than $30 million to help Oregonians with home hardening. By 2023, the Legislature allocated about 10% of that.

A 2024 grant program from the State Fire Marshals Office that provided $250 grants to help Oregonians afford defensible space landscaping is no longer available, according to Kassie Keller, an agency spokesperson.

Kotek said helping Oregonians afford to prevent wildfires from burning up their homes is still a priority for her.

The sessions not over yet, she said. Im going to continue to fight for dedicated dollars, and frankly new dollars, to help have more of these community-based grants to help not only individual homeowners harden and be protected from wildfire, but the whole community.

-- Alex Baumhardt, Oregon Capital Chronicle

The Oregon Capital Chronicle, founded in 2021, is a nonprofit news organization that focuses on Oregon state government, politics and policy.
The suit alleges negligence, civil rights violations, cruel and unusual punishment and sexual battery of a child by the Oregon Youth Authority. Beth Nakamura/Staff (file)

Ten more men who were held as boys at MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility allege in a new $51 million lawsuit that they were sexually abused two decades ago by the longtime chief medical officer there.

Its the third suit filed this year against the state and the Oregon Youth Authority over the boys encounters with Dr. Edward Gary Edwards, who was widely known in the prison as Dr. Cold Fingers.
Damage is seen to a CNC machine inside of the Interdisciplinary Engineering Building on University of Washington's campus after pro-Palestinian protesters occupied the space, Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in Seattle. (Nick Wagner/The Seattle Times via AP) AP

Thirty-one protesters were arrested after occupying a new engineering building at the University of Washington on Monday night as they called for the school to cut ties with Boeing and end what they called a targeted assault on pro-Palestine activism and activists.

Members of the protest group, called Students United for Palestinian Equality and Return UW, or SUPER UW, hung a banner from the second-floor window of the Interdisciplinary Engineering Building, renaming it the Shaban al-Dalou Building in remembrance of a 19-year-old engineering student killed by an airstrike last year in Gaza.

About 75 people dressed in black, faces covered, blocked the entrances to the engineering building by stacking items found inside and around the building, according to court documents. The university tried to shut down the building, but protesters had already made their way inside by the time UW locked the facility around 5 p.m. Monday.

The intent was to repurpose a building that is meant to make weapons of war to a place that serves the needs of students and workers and staff at the University of Washington, said Noah Weight, a SUPER UW member.

In a message to the UW community, President Ana Mari Cauce condemned what she described as a dangerous, violent and illegal building occupation and related vandalism. Four new manufacturing machines, valued at $35,000 to $120,000, were damaged. The university in a statement said the group started fires in two dumpsters on a street outside.

A shattered window is seen inside the Interdisciplinary Engineering Building on University of Washington's campus after pro-Palestinian protesters occupied the building, Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in Seattle. (Nick Wagner/The Seattle Times via AP) AP

Officers, including many in riot gear, from three law enforcement agencies responded to campus. Sally Clark, the universitys vice president of campus community safety, and police officers tried to negotiate with the protesters shortly before 9 p.m. but were turned down, according to court documents.

The university said the protesters were arrested for investigation of trespassing, property destruction and disorderly conduct, and conspiracy to commit all three. The cases will be referred to the King County prosecutors office.

On Tuesday, the Trump administration announced a review of Anti-Semitic Activity at the University of Washington to be conducted by the Department of Education, Department of Health and Human Services, and the General Services Administration.

The federal Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism applauded the universitys strong statement condemning last nights violence and quick action by law enforcement officers to remove violent criminals from the university campus.

While these are good first steps, the university must do more to deter future violence and guarantee that Jewish students have a safe and productive learning environment, according to a press release. The Task Force expects the institution to follow up with enforcement actions and policy changes that are clearly necessary to prevent these uprisings moving forward.

The protest was led by UW students and a vast majority of the protesters were UW students, according to Weight, though the group also included alumni and community members.

Police have not referred felony charges against those arrested thus far, said King County prosecuting attorneys office spokesperson Casey McNerthney. Four of those arrested had a first court appearance on gross misdemeanor trespassing charges in King County District Court on Tuesday, McNerthney said. All of the others posted $1,000 bond and are not required to make a first appearance.

McNerthney said the four who had their court hearings were released from custody.

Authorities previously said 32 people were arrested, but updated the figure Tuesday evening.

The cases have not been referred to police investigators as hate crimes, McNerthney said.

The protest comes as Israels government approved plans for its forces to capture the entire Gaza Strip and continue to occupy the war-torn territory for an unspecified amount of time. More than 52,000 people in the strip have been killed during the war, Palestinian health officials said.

The university reached an agreement last year with protesters after they set up a self-described liberated zone on the UW Quad. But protests continued after UW rejected protesters demands to divest from Boeing.

We demand that our tuition money and our research not be used to fund and fuel genocide, SUPER UW stated in an online manifesto.

UW suspended the group until June 13 for last years sit-in at a university building, SUPER UW said in a January post on Instagram.

The group also demanded UW evict Boeings presence in the engineering building, repurpose it into a community-controlled space with pro-people education, and cut financial ties with Boeing.

Boeing has donated to UW since 1917, including $10 million for the engineering building, a new 70,000-square-foot facility. With Boeings donation, the aviation giant was granted naming rights for the buildings second level.

Boeing is a major supplier to the Israeli Defense Forces, and Israel has received more military aid from the U.S. than any other country since World War II. Over the past decade, thousands of weapons systems and munitions manufactured by Boeing have been transferred from the U.S. to Israel, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.

The activist group cited what it called the heroic victory of Al-Aqsa Flood, Hamas surprise attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. That attack killed 1,200 Israelis, with over 250 people taken hostage.

The University will not be intimidated by this sort of offensive and destructive behavior and will continue to oppose antisemitism in all its forms, spokesperson Victor Balta said in a statement.

After about 130 tents went up during a weekslong protest on campus in April last year, UW agreed to fund at least 20 scholarships for Palestinian students displaced from Gaza.

The university also agreed to develop a faculty committee to ensure study abroad programs dont exclude Muslim and Arab students. It also agreed to help faculty pursue academic connections with universities in the Palestinian territories and meet with student representatives to explore future divestment options.

UW did not immediately respond to a request for comment on how those efforts have gone.

But UW has said it intended to maintain relationships with Boeing, though it has no direct investments in the company. The universitys Board of Regents voted in March not to convene an advisory committee related to divestment from companies doing business with or providing materials to Israel. Students gathered in a rally outside the board meeting, led in part by SUPER UW, to oppose the boards action.

A report conducted by the antisemitism and Islamophobia task forces released in October found that university students, faculty and staff felt unwelcome during the height of the liberation zone encampment.

A majority of Muslim and Palestinian students also said they felt unwelcome based on their identities during the 2023-24 academic year. Some members of the schools Jewish community also criticized the report, saying it conflates anti-Zionism with antisemitism.

The U.S. Department of Educations Office for Civil Rights additionally found that UW did not take responsive action even when reports stated that people felt threatened, unsafe and targeted based on their shared ancestry.

The university entered an agreement with the federal government in January  before President Donald Trumps inauguration  to ensure its compliance with federal civil rights law, such as hiring a coordinator.

UW later received a letter, as did three other Washington universities, from Trumps administration in March warning of potential enforcement actions if they did not protect Jewish students on campus.

Regina Friedland, director of American Jewish Committees regional office in Seattle, said the organization is concerned that the Trump administration is threatening funding cuts and freezes to higher education institutions. The organization was one of several which released a statement Tuesday urging the Trump administration to change its approach in addressing antisemitism.

Nevertheless, Mondays protest wasnt an issue of rhetoric, Friedland said.

This was an issue of destruction, vandalism and things that are unlawful, especially on a college campus, she added. This is an atmosphere of learning that needs to work for all of its students. Jewish students need to be protected.

 2025 The Seattle Times. Visit www.seattletimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
DEA agents seized these tubs of fentanyl pills last week in Albuquerque and Santa Fe, New Mexico, according to federal prosecutors. U.S. Attorney's Office

A 36-year-old man arrested last week in Salem faces drug trafficking charges in New Mexico, one of 16 people indicted in what federal prosecutors called one of the largest fentanyl drug rings theyve identified.

Drug Enforcement Administration agents say Heriberto Salazar Amaya was the leader of the Mexican trafficking ring that brought millions of fentanyl pills and pounds of fentanyl power to Oregon, New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona and Utah.
Beaverton police arrested a 41-year-old man who is accused of steering into a motorcyclist Monday before speeding off on U.S. 26.

Officers arrested Samir Helio Pazzoto-Filho, a Washington County resident, Monday evening, police said. A tip led police to his home near U.S. 26 and Southwest 185th Avenue.

When officers arrived, police said they saw him driving his blue Kia Carnival, believed to be the same car involved in the crash. Pazzoto-Filho remains in Washington County custody and is scheduled to appear in court Tuesday afternoon. Court records show he is accused of second-degree assault, unlawful use of a weapon and failure to perform the duties of a driver.

The hit-and-run collision occurred shortly after 6 a.m. when police say the driver of a Kia Carnival, believed to be Pazzoto-Filho, intentionally sideswiped a motorcycle, causing the rider to lose control and fall, skidding across two lanes of traffic. The driver of the Kia then sped off.

Dash camera video shared by police shows the motorcyclist talking to the driver of the Kia moments before the driver slams into the left side of the motorcycle.

A GoFundMe page created by the motorcyclists family said his first name is Correy. His sister wrote that the crash launched him over 200 feet and that he was quickly taken to the hospital thanks to the kindness of nearby strangers.

Police say the motorcyclist has since been discharged from the hospital and is resting with family.

Beaverton police shared photos of the Kia Carnival believed to be involved in an early Monday hit-and-run collision on U.S. 26. Officers arrested a 41-year-old man who police believe was the driver of the Kia that rammed into a motorcyclist. Courtesy of Beaverton Police

Investigators believe Pazzoto-Filho had been driving recklessly in the days leading up to the crash. Police ask anyone with information about his alleged reckless driving behavior to contact the department at 503-526-2261.

 Zaeem Shaikh covers the Portland Police Bureau and criminal justice issues for The Oregonian/OregonLive. Reach him at 503-221- 4323, zshaikh@oregonian.com or on X @zaeemshake
Skyline School located on Northwest Skyline Boulevard in Portland, where Kyron Horman disappeared 15 years ago. Now, with a new Multnomah County district attorney, Kyron's mother Desiree Young has stepped up her advocacy, leaning on DA Nathan Vasquez to pour resources into the case and, finally, make a call about whether to proceed with a prosecution. Beth Nakamura

In the 15 years since Kyron Horman vanished from a Portland elementary school, the mystery of what happened that late spring morning endures.

The original detectives long ago retired. The Multnomah County Sheriffs Office has revealed little new about the investigation. District attorneys have prosecuted no one.
A row of law books in a courtroom in Oregon in 2023. Dave Killen / The Oregonian

State investigators want the Multnomah County District Attorneys Office to pay up for allegedly forcing out a prosecutor who raised concerns in 2021 that her male colleagues were getting promotions because of their gender.

The Bureau of Labor and Industries filed the administrative complaint, similar to a lawsuit, earlier this year  the strongest rebuke yet against former District Attorney Mike Schmidt, who has long claimed the complaints were a pretext to push back against his reformer mindset.

In this case, the labor bureau is demanding $725,000 in lost wages and damages on behalf of former prosecutor Amber Kinney. The agency also wants all managers at the DAs office to receive anti-discrimination training for the next five years.

Kinney was hired as a deputy district attorney in 2008. She had risen up the ranks and first raised whistleblower concerns in September 2021 about promotions happening due to sex discrimination. She resigned from her $178,000 job the next year, and in August 2022, she filed a written complaint with the labor bureau.

In 2023, BOLI issued a report backing Kinneys version of events and conflicting with an outside investigation Schmidt had commissioned. He lost his reelection bid to prosecutor Nathan Vasquez in May 2024.

Schmidt isnt named in the complaint, and declined to comment.

Its not clear if Vasquez will fight the civil rights complaint, given that his election last year was based on a repudiation of Schmidts policies.

I am disappointed that BOLI did not resolve this matter prior to DA Schmidt leaving office, Vasquez said by email.

Kinney first spoke out at a union meeting in September 2021, according to her complaint, noting that Schmidts decision-making team for promotions was predominantly male, and that of the eight prosecutors promoted to the highest rank in his first year of office, seven were men.

Civil rights investigators determined that the criteria for promotion were unclear and vague, and included a demonstrated willingness to promote the DAs policy and philosophical direction.

Around the same time, senior prosecutor Jenna Plank recommended Kinney be given a high ranking position leading part of the misdemeanor trial unit, the complaint says.

Instead, the position went to a different prosecutor, Melissa Marrero, with Schmidt telling his executive team he would not promote somebody who was holding a gun to his head, according to the complaint.

Schmidt did promote Kinney and seven other women to a newly created middle tier.

Kinney resigned in January 2022, saying she had been retaliated against for blowing the whistle about sex discrimination. She was one of three female prosecutors who publicly left the DAs office, spurring headlines and financial settlements for at least two of them.

Kinneys income as a private practice attorney fell to $86,000 in 2023, according to the complaint.

I suffered for shining a light on DA Schmidts unlawful employment practices, she said in a statement. No one should have to face discrimination in the workplace.

Schmidt is now working as general counsel at the Urban League and has floated starting a podcast recently.

The Oregonian/OregonLive reporter Noelle Crombie contributed to this article.

Zane Sparling covers breaking news and courts for The Oregonian/OregonLive. Reach him at 503-319-7083, zsparling@oregonian.com or @pdxzane.

Our journalism needs your support. Please become a subscriber today at OregonLive.com/subscribe.
A police officer examines foil used to smoke fentanyl in Portland in 2024. Beth Nakamura

A Washington County woman whose toddler unwittingly swallowed fentanyl pills and nearly died was found guilty of second-degree assault by a jury Thursday.

The 2-year-old girl was belted into her car seat when her mom, Megan Meek, tossed a peach-colored fanny pack full of cookies, snacks  and the poisonous counterfeit pain pills known as blues  into the back of her Kia Optima on March 13, 2023.
More than 20 complaints were made to the Department of Human Services and police about the alleged abuse of the children in their great-aunt's care, according to the federal lawsuit. Beth Nakamura/Staff

The state has agreed to pay nearly $5 million to three children who were severely neglected and tortured by their great-aunt over five years despite more than 20 complaints made by their teachers and counselors to state child welfare workers and police.

Merlinda Avalos, now 56, was sentenced in January 2019 to 12 years and seven months in prison after pleading guilty to six counts of first-degree criminal mistreatment in Washington County Circuit Court.

The settlement, reached after lengthy mediation with the help of two retired state judges, was to be divided evenly, awarding $1.65 million to each of the siblings, two girls and a boy.

Shortly after the eldest of the children, then 18, was told of the pending settlement, he died by suicide on Aug. 19, 2024, in New Mexico, according to the lawyers who filed suit against the state. His share will go toward his estate and a probate court will determine how the money will be distributed, they said.

The children were not in the care of the state at the time of the abuse, which made the case more challenging, said attorney Josh Lamborn, who along with attorneys Paul C. Galm and Jeremiah V. Ross filed the suit.

Jake Sunderland, a spokesperson for the state Department of Human Services, said he could not comment on the litigation. The settlement was filed in federal court this week, awaiting approval by U.S. District Judge Michael W. Mosman.

The children suffered chronic starvation, were deprived of sleep and forced to urinate in pee jugs in their room at night, according to the suit. They were prevented from using the bathroom, had their mouths duct-taped closed and were repeatedly hit with a flyswatter, broom handle, belt or wooden spoon, the suit said.

Avalos made the children attend school in urine-drenched clothes, restricted showers to every Sunday with cold water and forced the children to sleep naked on bare mattresses with their bedroom window open even when it was cold outside, the suit said.

She also taped tacks to the rungs of the childrens bunk bed to thwart them from climbing down at night, kicked them, choked them and shot them in their backs with a BB gun, according to the suit.

Neighbors, school staff and other mandatory reporters made at least 20 reports to the state Department of Human Services and 911 between April 2013 and April 2018, when the state finally removed the children from Avalos home, the complaint said. In April 2013, the two girls were 5 and their brother was 7.

On April 16, 2013, for example, school staff reported to the state child welfare agency that the children had disclosed Avalos was forcing them to stand for hours in a corner until late at night as punishment, denied them food, and covered their noses and mouths with a shirt so they couldnt breathe, according to the suit. The school also reported suspicious bruises and wounds on the children.

A state worker ruled the threat of harm unfounded, but the state failed to take photos of the suspicious injuries or have the children examined by a medical professional within 48 hours of the report, as state rules required.

Instead, the state developed a protective plan but included Avalos in it -- a violation of agency rules that said such a plan should not include the alleged perpetrator of physical abuse, according to the complaint.

On May 4, 2015, an anonymous caller to the Department of Human Services reported concerns of excessive discipline in the home, saying Avalos often locked the children outside in the rain, made fun of the children because they smelled like urine and feces and forced the children to use the bathroom all at once, according to the suit.

The state agency closed the report without investigation or assessment and failed to review the history of the children or assign the complaint for a child abuse assessment, the suit said.

On Feb. 11, 2016, a school employee reported that one of the children had a small bruise around her eye and dried blood in her nose. It was the second time the school counselor had seen the girls eye injured, according to the suit.

The state child welfare agency did an assessment but concluded the reports were unsubstantiated, the suit said.

A month later, a school employee reported to the Department of Human Services that one of the girls had a new bruise on her right eyelid and broken blood vessels around her eye. The girl was not taken to CARES Northwest, a child abuse assessment center, until nine days later and by then, her injuries had faded, according to the suit.

On May 19, 2016, a school employee reported to the state agency that the children showed up in dirty clothes reeking of urine. The school would secretly have the children change into clean clothes at school but the girls would change back into their dirty clothes before Avalos picked them up out of fear of retribution, according to the suit.

One of the children was so worried that Avalos would find out she wore clean clothes at school that she often broke down crying, the suit said.

On Sept. 7, 2016, a neighbor reported to the state that the boy was locked outside and forced to do yard work in his underwear while Avalos screamed and cursed at him. The neighbor reported often hearing smacking noises, followed by children screaming, the suit said.

By late October 2017, the boy had suspicious injuries to his eye, wrist and ankles and disclosed that Avalos hit him with a bag of books, forced a urine-soaked rag over his mouth while he was crying, squeezed his eye and tied him to the bed with a dog leash, causing ligature marks around his ankle, according to the suit.

He detailed to his school counselor those and prior injuries suffered from Avalos, which he had previously hidden out of fear and because in the past nothing ever happened when he reports, the suit said.

Again, the state assessment done three days came back unfounded, according to the suit.

Hillsboro police said they started an investigation in April 2018 after one child disclosed abuse to a school counselor. Detectives and experts from CARES Northwest interviewed the children, by then ages 9, 10 and 12, and found extensive evidence of ongoing abuse, police said.

After detectives first confronted Avalos with the allegations, an officer spotted Avalos and her husband attempting to destroy evidence at their home, Washington County District Attorneys office said in a statement after Avalos sentencing in 2019. The evidence, later gathered by law enforcement, corroborated the childrens allegations, police said.

Early in the civil case, the states lawyers moved to dismiss the suit, arguing the allegations and the suit should be filed solely against the person who abused the children.

The suit was allowed to proceed after the Oregon Supreme Court, in another case, ruled that a claim of abuse of a vulnerable person under the states Vulnerable Person Act could be made against a public body, such as the state child welfare agency, when the claim is based on the acts or lack of action by employees of a public body acting in the scope of their jobs.

The state admitted in court records that it had received multiple child abuse hotline reports regarding the children in Avalos care, and noted the details and results are in the state reports that speak for themselves, according to the states lawyers. The state took the children into protective custody on April 6, 2018, according to filings by the states lawyers.

In addition to her prison time, Avalos was ordered to pay more than $20,000 in compensatory fines to the children, more than $6,000 in restitution and ordered to have no contact with minors other than her own son when she is released, scheduled for late March 2029.

After the state removed the children from her care, they were returned to their mother, who moved them to New Mexico. The mother then relapsed on drugs, and New Mexicos child welfare agency took the children into its care, according to court records.

Eventually, the mother regained custody of the girls and the boy turned 18 and was working picking onions in New Mexico to earn a living before he died, said the lawyers who filed suit.

The sisters continue to live in New Mexico with their mother. One is now 16 years old and the other is 17.

Retired Multnomah County Judges Jean Maurer and Eric Bergstrom helped in the mediation.

-- Maxine Bernstein covers federal court and criminal justice. Reach her at 503-221-8212, mbernstein@oregonian.com, follow her on X @maxoregonian, on Bluesky @maxbernstein.bsky.social or on LinkedIn.
A chocolate croissant and cappuccino are among the most popular items on the menu at Ms Bakery. Chiara Profenna

Lea este articulo en espanol: Ms Bakery trae una mezcla unica de cultura mexicana y pasteleria de estilo europeo a Bend

After just one perfect day floating the Deschutes River and visiting local breweries and businesses, Dario Mucino and Macy Davis knew they needed to move to Bend and open their dream bakery.

Rejected by countless brick-and-mortar spaces in Southern California, the husband-and-wife duo decided to try a fresh start in Oregon in the winter of 2023. Not long after, they realized what was so special about Bend.

We loved how people really cherish small business in central Oregon, Davis said.

They began selling their pastries during the warmer months at the NorthWest Crossing and downtown Bend farmers markets, where their buttery croissants and perfectly laminated kouign-amanns quickly drew loyal fans.

Macy Davis and Dario Mucino, co-owners of Ms Bakery, stand inside their new brick-and-mortar shop in Bends Old Mill District. Chiara Profenna

In January 2025, Ms Bakery opened a brick-and-mortar shop in the Old Mill District and were soon greeted by long lines, frequent sellouts and a warm embrace from the community.

The spacious bakery, flooded in natural light, was designed to replicate a particular essence of Mexican culture and cuisine that subverts traditional expectations.

Theres this cultural concept of what a Mexican restaurant should look like, said Mucino, who was born and raised in Mexico City. But even a Mexican restaurant in Mexico, it doesnt look like a Mexican restaurant in the U.S.  There was this constant contradiction of what I saw as a Mexican restaurant, not just food, but also in architecture.

Ms Bakerys interior features high ceilings and natural light, designed to reflect a blend of Mexican and European influences. Chiara Profenna

Mexican culture, he explained, has been deeply shaped by the many cultures that passed through the region over time  Spanish, French, Arabic, Lebanese, German and others. Drawing from these influences, Ms Bakery features bright white walls, speckled tabletops and green tiling along the counter. Handmade tiles from San Miguel de Allende  where Mucino and Davis were married  and wool textiles from family farmers in Bernal decorate the space.

I think that translates to what we wanted to do, Mucino said. It was more like this European style concept, but still with the Mexican flair, because thats literally the Mexico that I know.

This concept is also reflected by the wide variety of pastries. Almond, chocolate and ham and cheese croissants, kouign amanns, cinnamon rolls, monkey bread, cookies and muffins line the countertop. Beyond the pastries, Ms Bakery also offers a full menu of breakfast and lunch items, from avocado toast to huevos ahogados  a popular Mexican breakfast dish that translates to drowned eggs  and freshly baked loaves of bread.

Ms Bakery also serves breakfast and lunch, including avocado toast and an egg sandwich. Chiara Profenna

Mucino, who attended culinary school in Queretaro, Mexico, grew up seeing cooking as a form of resourcefulness. Making meals from scratch was always more economical than ordering takeout, he said. Bringing that passion to the U.S. when he immigrated in 2016 came naturally. Starting a business was the hard part.

I remember when Dario started the Bakery, he literally Googled, how to start a business in the U.S.,  Davis said. We literally didnt know anything.

It was a difficult endeavor, the pair quickly realized, which involved more collateral and investment than they had bargained for.

For the most part, we always wanted just to have a bakery, Mucino said. Between the luck and the persistence, I think that theres a good amount of ignorance because youre willing to take the risk easier when you dont know theres risk.

The couple knew their bakery concept was unique, but at the time, they wondered if their pastries were good enough to bring in customers. It wasnt until their farmers market crowd was begging them to open their physical shop that Mucino and Davis realized they had solidified their place in the community.

People value their products, Davis said: We use organic flours and we use real butter, which not a lot of bakeries use we really take that extra step to create quality products. So its nice to see the community respond like This is the best thing outside of Paris.

Almond croissants, kouign amanns and chocolate croissants are part of the bakerys daily pastry offerings. Chiara Profenna

A couple months into their first business, Mucino and Davis are making plans to expand their bakery with wholesale, new offerings and improved ingredients.

Well be introducing our gluten-free breads, our vegan croissants, Davis said. Once we move the wholesale out of here, well be able to really extend our bread and pastry offerings.

Beyond baked goods, Mucino and Davis have ambitious plans for the future  including securing a beer and wine license to introduce Mexican wines to central Oregon, importing artisanal chocolate from Chiapas and eventually serving coffee made from beans grown on Darios sister-in-laws plantations in Veracruz.

The people that come in are just constantly our cheerleaders; Ive never even seen them before, Davis said. Its definitely the push you need in small business to say Okay, we can do this. Lets keep going.

The takeaway: Grab a pastry, then take a stroll along the river or enjoy a taste of Bends outdoor recreation with your coffee in hand.

Sample menu: Pastries, breads and breakfast dishes with gluten free options: Almond croissant ($6), huevos ahogados ($14), monkey bread ($4.50), avocado toast ($13) and a classic sourdough loaf ($12).

Drinks: Tea offerings and espresso drinks including Americanos ($4), cortados ($4.50), cappuccinos ($5.50), lattes ($5) and mochas ($5.75).

Details: Counter service with plentiful indoor seating and a few sunny patio tables. Takeout options available. Open 7 a.m.-3 p.m. daily; 330 S.W. Powerhouse Drive, Ste. 140, Bend; 458-206-1104; ms-bend.com

 Chiara Profenna covers religion, faith and cultural connections. Reach her at 503-221-4327; cprofenna@oregonian.com or @chiaraprofenna.

The Oregonian/OregonLive receives support from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust to bring readers stories on religion, faith and cultural connections in Oregon. The Oregonian/OregonLive is solely responsible for all content.
"I would like to reach out and let him know how I still feel about him." Goran - stock.adobe.com

DEAR ABBY: I had been developing feelings for my co-worker/boss.

I believed those feelings may have been reciprocated.

Then, I was fired because of a conflict with another co-worker.

This happened more than a month ago. I still think about the guy from time to time. I would like to reach out and let him know, without it being embarrassing or seeming creepy, but Im not sure how.

I really care about him. -- FORMER EMPLOYEE IN CONNECTICUT

DEAR FORMER EMPLOYEE: If your feelings for your former boss had been reciprocated, he would be reaching out to you, which hasnt happened. That said, if youd like another conversation with him, contact him and ask if hes willing to be a job reference if hes contacted by any prospective employers.

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.
An exterior view of Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, California, on Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023. (Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images) Los Angeles Times via Getty Imag

Two Six Flags amusement parks in the Washington, D.C., area are up for sale after the chains $8 billion merger with rival Cedar Fair.

Six Flags America and the Hurricane Harbor water park in Bowie, Maryland, will close after the 2025 season and marketed for redevelopment, the company announced last week. Six Flags previously said some of its smaller parks were for sale during a quarterly earnings call in February.

But what about Six Flags properties on the West Coast, namely Six Flags Magic Mountain and Knotts Berry Farm in Southern California as well as Californias Great America and Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in the Bay Area?

Knotts Berry Farm and Magic Mountain are among the top attendance draws in the Six Flags chain and arent likely to be sold, The Orange County Register reported. Californias Great America is slated for closure within the next three to eight years, which would seemingly clear the way for Discovery Kingdom to remain open.

The OC Register went on to explore which Six Flags parks are untouchable, which should be safe for now and which might go up for sale:

Untouchable parks

The chains eight largest parks based on attendance are Knotts Berry Farm in Buena Park, California (4.2 million annual visitors), Ohios Cedar Point (4 million), Ohios Kings Island (3.5 million), Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, California (3.4 million), Canadas Wonderland (3.2 million), Illinois Six Flags Great America (3 million), New Jerseys Six Flags Great Adventure (2.5 million) and Six Flags Mexico (2 million), according to the TEA/AECOM report.

Those locations seem like core properties in the new Six Flags and appear to be untouchable at the moment.

Safe for now

Four more of the chains parks are located close to major metropolitan areas: Philadelphia (Dorney Park), Dallas/Fort Worth (Six Flags Over Texas), Atlanta (Six Flags Over Georgia) and Boston (Six Flags New England).

Without any major local competition, those locations seem safe for now.

On the bubble

Four parks in the chain sit on the bubble in mid-sized metropolitan areas: Carowinds (Charlotte, North Carolina), Six Flags Fiesta Texas (San Antonio, Texas), La Ronde (Montreal) and Six Flags St. Louis (Missouri).

Carowinds is likely safe since Six Flags corporate headquarters is now located in Charlotte.

The other three parks could be on the market if Six Flags finds the right bidder.

Potentially for sale

That leaves the six smallest parks in the chain  Frontier City (Oklahoma City), Six Flags Darien Lake (Buffalo, New York), Valleyfair (Minneapolis, Minnesota), Worlds of Fun (Kansas City, Missouri), Six Flags Great Escape (Albany, New York) and Michigans Adventure (Grand Rapids).

Michigans Adventure could argue that its near Detroit and Chicago, but likely couldnt compete with the bigger Cedar Point or Six Flags Great America.

The dueling Six Flags parks in upstate New York have coexisted for years  but are both among the smallest in the chain. Six Flags doesnt own Darien Lake and only serves as the lease operator, which likely means costs are lower there.

Water parks

The water parks in the newly combined chain all draw fewer than 1 million visitors a year.

Most of the water parks are connected to amusement parks in the chain, but not all of them.

The two Schlitterbahn water parks in Texas rank first and third in attendance among Six Flags water parks, according to the TEA/AECOM report. Knotts Soak City sits in between the Schlitterbahn parks.

The other top water parks in terms of attendance are tied to Six Flags Over Texas, Six Flags Great Adventure, Six Flags Magic Mountain, Six Flags Over Georgia and Cedar Point.

The stand-alone Six Flags Phoenix water park also makes the TEA/AECOM Top 20 North American water parks list.

Four stand-alone water parks in the chain  in Northern California, Texas, Georgia and Mexico  arent directly tied to amusement parks and could be among the smallest locations in the Six Flags chain.

-- From staff and wire reports
U.S. President Donald Trump, right, meets with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in the Oval Office at the White House on May 6, 2025, in Washington, D.C. Carney, who was elected into office last week, met with Trump to discuss trade and the recent tariffs imposed on Canada. TNS

Newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney warned President Donald Trump on Tuesday that Canada is not for sale in a cordial but tense White House meeting over the trade war and Trumps push to annex the northern neighbor as a 51st state.

Carney, who won election last week on a platform of confronting Trumps threats, sought to strike a cordial tone, and the two leaders showered praise on each other in the Oval Office before a closed-door meeting that stretched for 90 minutes.

But Carney squirmed a bit as Trump riffed on his contentious plan for the U.S. to gobble up Canada.

There are some places that are never for sale. Having met with the owners of Canada ... its not for sale and it will never be for sale, Carney said.

Never say never, Trump retorted with a smile. Time will tell.

Sitting next to Trump, Carney silently mouthed the word never over and over again as Trump spoke.

There was no immediate word of any progress on negotiations to ease the tit-for-tat trade war that began when Trump imposed broad import taxes on Canadian products.

In fact, Trump repeated his claim that the U.S. is subsidizing Canada because it runs a trade deficit with the northern neighbor and the U.S. doesnt need or want Canadian steel, aluminum, timber and other products.

We dont do much business with Canada, Trump remarked flippantly.

Trump regularly falsely claims Canada runs a huge annual trade surplus of $200 billion with the U.S.

In fact, the U.S. had a trade deficit with Canada in physical goods of about $63 billion last year. But that was offset by a surplus in American services to Canada of about $33 billion.

Carney has stressed that he was elected to stand up to the mercurial U.S. president and that Canada is in a once-in-a-lifetime crisis. The former central banker said he expected difficult but constructive conversations.

Minutes before Carneys arrival, Trump set a contentious tone by accusing Canada of freeloading on trade and the nations geopolitical alliance.

We dont need anything they have, other than their friendship, which hopefully we will always maintain. They, on the other hand, need everything from us, Trump wrote on his social media site.

Trump has frayed a decades-old alliance by saying he wants to make Canada the 51st U.S. state and levying steep tariffs against an essential partner in the manufacturing of autos and the supply of oil, electricity and other goods.

The widespread north-of-the-border outrage provoked by Trumps bellicose rhetoric powered Carneys Liberal Party to a stunning comeback victory over the right-wing opposition party.

Trump has repeatedly threatened that he intends to make Canada the 51st state and says he is deadly serious. Just Sunday, Trump called the border an artificial line that prevents the two nations from forming a beautiful country.

Trumps openly adversarial approach with allies and rivals alike has raised big questions for Carney and other world leaders on how to manage relations with Trump.

Some world leaders, such as the United Kingdoms prime minister, Keir Starmer, engaged in a charm offensive. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, on the other hand, wound up getting into a shouting match with Trump after challenging his stance on the Russian invasion.

Trump says the U.S. doesnt need anything from Canada even though corporations have worked for decades to integrate supply chains between the two nations.

Nearly 25% of the oil the U.S. consumes comes from the province of Alberta. Almost every state along the northern border, including upstate New York, relies heavily on trade with Canada.

Trump has also disparaged Canadas military commitments despite a hand-in-glove partnership that stretched from the beaches of Normandy in World War II to the fight against al-Qaida in Afghanistan following the Sept. 11 terror attacks.

-- Dave Goldiner / New York Daily News
Les Robinson speaks with reporters outside the Hennepin County Jail following a court appearance for James Duane Ortley, who is charged with fatally shooting Robinsons son, LeRas Rainey, and three others, on Monday, May 5, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minn. (AP Photo/Mark Vancleave) AP

MINNEAPOLIS (AP)  The father of one of four people killed in a mass shooting that shook the Native American community in Minneapolis said Monday that it will take a long time to heal.

Les Robinson said his 28-year-old son, LeRas Francis Rainey, seemed happy when he and some friends went to see James Duane Ortley last Tuesday. But prosecutors allege that Ortley, 34, shot Rainey and four other people in a car, killing all but one of them, in what investigators believe was a gang-related attack that later led to a retaliatory killing.

The charges against Ortley, of Minneapolis, were updated Monday to four counts of second-degree murder, one count of second-degree attempted murder, and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Ortley, who was wearing a green suicide-prevention suit, said little during a hearing in which his bail was set at $2 million. The judge scheduled his next hearing for June 25. His lawyer didnt immediately return a call seeking comment.

Prosecutors allege that Ortley was in the vehicle with the five victims late Tuesday when he shot each in the head. Investigators believe someone else killed a fifth person about 13 hours later and a few blocks away.

According to the criminal complaint, Ortley and members of his family are associated with the Native Mob gang, which operates in Minneapolis and other parts of Minnesota.

Police work on the scene as a bystander is shook up by the homicide in front of 2107 Cedar Ave S in Minneapolis, Minn., on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. (Richard Tsong-Taatarii/Star Tribune via AP) AP

Authorities identified the three who died at the scene of the first shooting as Evan Ramon Denny, 27, of St. Paul; Joseph Douglas Goodwin, 17, of Minneapolis; and Merelle Joan White, 20, of Red Lake. Rainey died at a hospital Thursday.

A 20-year-old woman who was shot in the face survived and helped police identify Ortley as a suspect.

Authorities have given no details of a possible motive. But they allege in the complaint that Ortley was a friend or associate of at least one or more of the victims, who were at a family friends Minneapolis home on the night of the shootings before they left with plans to pick up Ortley.

Robinson, of Minneapolis, told reporters he was there when his son and the others went out that night. He said his son left the house real happy. Like hes going to go visit his friends, and told us hell be home in a couple hours. Never came back.

Robinson said he had heard nothing more solid than rumors about what led to the shootings.

Officials say all of the victims were Native American.

Items are placed as a memorial at the site of a late Tuesday fatal shooting, on Friday, May 2, 2025 in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Mark Vancleave) AP

Robinson, a member of the Red Lake Nation, said theres a lot of sorrow now in the local Native community.

Its a lot of frustration and all that, he said. Its just (going to) take a long time to heal this situation.

Asked what justice would look like for Ortley, Robinson replied: What hes going through now, I know hes never going to get out of there.

After law enforcement arrested Ortley at a Minneapolis apartment Thursday, a search turned up a .380-caliber firearm that was concealed under a sweatshirt and hidden under a coffee table, the updated complaint said. The gun matched multiple bullets and shell casings found at the scene, it said.

The medical examiner identified the victim of the second shooting as Tiago Antonio Gilbert, 34, of Minneapolis. Police Chief Brian OHara said Thursday it was entirely probable that Wednesdays shooting was revenge for the first. But investigators were still working Monday to determine a link.
Salmon can be seen swimming up a Klamath River tributary. After the removal of the last of four dams along the Klamath River in 2024, salmon have reached stretches of the river that have been devoid of the fish for decades. Shane Anderson/Swiftwater Film

Russell Buster Attebery and Joseph L. James

For The Oregonian/OregonLive

Attebery is chairman of the Karuk Tribe and James is chairman of the Yurok Tribe.

Last year, we watched as the last of four dams were removed from the Klamath River in a historic endeavor. Karuk and Yurok citizens sighed in relief, grateful that decades of tribal-led activism, scientific research and litigation had succeeded in reopening 400 stream miles of spawning habitat for salmon and other species.

The tears of joy came just a few weeks later, when research cameras showed the first of more than 6,000 fish traveling past the first dam site. Spawning salmon were crossing into Oregons Spencer Creek, a tributary of the Klamath, for the first time in 112 years. The salmon had remembered the way, for it is embedded into their DNA just as it is in our ancestors  a testament of shared memory and spiritual connection between our people and the river.

Millions of baby salmon are now emerging into this free-flowing river above the former dam sites. Just as our ancestors worked in harmony with these waters for millennia, we continue this sacred relationship by restoring the ecological foundations that sustain the rivers health and our traditional foodways.

Weve hand-planted countless native trees, flowering herbs and grasses to blanket the 2,200-acre footprint of the bygone dams and reservoirs. New vegetation is stabilizing the soil, attracting pollinators and reestablishing the food web along this expansive stretch of the Klamath. Water temperatures are cooling down as the natural flow regime takes hold.

The removal of the dams along the Klamath River  the largest such project in the country  is part of an ongoing national and necessary debate about the impact and consequences of dams on our natural world. The early signs from the Klamath only add to the evidence of success. From Oregons Rogue River to the Penobscot in Maine, rivers are recovering across the U.S. in response to the removal of antiquated dams. Tribes are leading many of these projects.

Several thousand dams were constructed in the U.S. at the beginning of the last century, when the long-term environmental impacts were largely unknown  except to tribal people, who correctly predicted that segmenting river systems would be detrimental to fish, wildlife and humans. These unintended outcomes disproportionately harmed tribal communities.

Extending from Southern Oregon to Northern California, the Klamath River was once the third most productive salmon-bearing watershed in the western continental U.S. Prior to European colonization, the Klamath supported one million salmon annually. The former dams were largely responsible for a 95% reduction in the rivers salmon stocks. The Klamath was once home to large populations of steelhead, sturgeon, eulachon and Pacific lamprey, which suffered similar declines. These fish stocks are the foundation of our traditional culture, ceremonies and food sovereignty.

In our culture, we feed our elders first, a practice that honors those who carry our knowledge, history and sacred wisdom. Over the last 10 years, our tribes have not even been able to harvest enough salmon for our elders, let alone meet our ceremonial and subsistence needs. The removal of the dams brings us new hope for future generations. These are hardships that have been repeated in many communities due to dams.

Many Yurok and Karuk citizens spent decades advocating for dam removal and deserve ample credit for this amazing accomplishment. Our people suffered in this fight. We are forever grateful for their passion and determination as they battled time, distance and a lack of resources to make our voices heard. But they also needed the support of several nonprofit organizations and the commitment of Oregon and California state governments to bring this project to fruition. It is incumbent on other states to recognize their obligation to rectify the harms that dams have caused.

Our next priority is fixing the upper basin tributaries that sustained tens of thousands of salmon and steelhead before the dams. These historical spawning streams flow through 500,000 acres of farms and ranches, including 230,000 that comprise a federal irrigation project as well as off-project agricultural lands. Last year, the Yurok Tribe, Karuk Tribe and the Klamath Tribes of Oregon, along with the Klamath Water Users Association and Bureau of Reclamation, signed a memorandum of understanding to design and implement mutually agreeable initiatives that balance the needs of fish and agriculture. Over the last decade, we learned that building lasting relationships with our upper basin partners, rather than fighting them in court, produced the best results for the river and our salmon.

In 2024, Congress allocated tens of millions of dollars to a coalition of upper basin farmers and tribes to revitalize fish habitat and help make farms and ranches more resilient. These local stakeholder-driven projects will strengthen the regional rural economy. We are waiting for these already-obligated funds to be delivered to support a future in which we can thrive together.

We stand united and hopeful that we will continue to restore our beautiful Klamath Basin. There is still a lot of work ahead of us. We live in uncertain times, but for our salmon relatives, the future is finally looking bright.

Sign up for our free Oregon Opinion newsletter. Email:


Its been a tumultuous several years in the world of Oregons cat adoptions  with a booming population of cats brought on by the pandemic, tearful conversations over how to best address the problem and even a lawsuit accusing a local humane society of cat theft.

Together, those factors have crippled the cat adoption system.

The cat theft accusation  that a humane society violated state law by adopting out a Salem familys cat that it mistakenly thought was a stray  prompted many animal shelters and cat rescue operations across the state to reconsider their policies for accepting and rehoming stray cats. It also led the Oregon Humane Society, the largest cat adoption organization in the state, to halt adoptions for many stray cats found in Marion and Clackamas counties

All that has left many members of the public whove chanced across the growing tsunami of homeless cats, as one volunteer put it, stunned.

Now a bill before the state Legislature aims to solve at least part of the problem by alleviating animal shelters worries theyll be accused of stealing family pets. The bill gained significant traction by passing the House last month and is now on its way tor a vote of the full Senate.

I call it fear of being accused of cat-napping, said Rep. Tom Andersen, a Salem Democrat and chief sponsor of House Bill 3604.

The bill would clarify Oregon law to say that animal shelters and rescue operations need only to hold stray cats for three to five business days before putting them up for adoption.

The bill is designed to mirror Oregon law for stray dogs, which states that they must be held for three days if they dont have an identifying collar or microchip and five days if they do.

Oregon law is silent about the length of time a cat should be held before it can be adopted out. Historically, many cat adoption organizations simply applied the law for dogs to cats. (File photo) LC- (photo courtesy of Jamie Hale)

Landmark lawsuit

Cat advocates say it became painfully apparent there was a problem in 2018, when a well-meaning stranger encountered Squeakers, a 4-year-old black tom cat, roaming through a Salem neighborhood. The stranger scooped up Squeakers, who was wearing a collar but had no microchip, and dropped him off at what was then known as the Willamette Humane Society. Five days later, Squeakers  who had been renamed Melvin  was adopted by new owners, according to court records.

That same day, however, Squeakers owners, whod plastered at least 45 lost pet fliers across their neighborhood, learned where Squeakers had been taken. But by the time they arrived, the humane society told them it was too late.

Squeakers original owners sued and, after two months of legal wrangling and attorneys fees, won him back.

The experience left an indelible scar on animal adoptions agencies across the state, and particularly, the Oregon Humane Society in Portland, which in 2022 merged with the Willamette Humane Society in Salem. After reviewing Oregon law, the Oregon Humane Society ended the practice of taking in stray cats from Marion and Clackamas counties and putting them up for adoption in three to five days.

Instead, the nonprofit determined that the states lost property law likely applied. Under that interpretation, stray cats must be held for at least 90 days before any animal shelter can assume ownership and find them new homes.

That didnt affect cat adoptions much in counties with local ordinances specifying that cats need only be held for a short period, usually a week or less. Those places include Oregons most populous counties, Multnomah and Washington.

But it did have a significant impact on counties such as Marion and Clackamas, where there are no ordinances addressing cat hold times.

Once the Oregon Humane Society began to turn away many stray cats, smaller cat rescue organizations, particularly those serving cats in Marion and Clackamas counties, were almost immediately overwhelmed.

While Multnomah and Washington counties have government-run shelters that accept cats, there is no such shelters for cats in Marion and Clackamas counties. (File photo) Mark Graves

Turning away cats

Cat advocates say the public soon began to feel the impact.

Lora Meisner, executive director of the Salem-based cat welfare nonprofit Coalition Advocating For Animals, told the House Judiciary Committee that a couple who in late 2022 found a kitten sitting next to a shoebox in a Marion County park were shocked to be turned away by the Oregon Humane Society in Salem.

Over the past 2  years, I cant even begin to tell you the tear-filled and distressed calls Ive received from residents upon finding moms and litters, hungry emaciated cats or simply recently dumped friendly cats that need rescuing, Meisner said.

Some cat rescue organizations say theyve become so inundated with cats that theyve had to turn them away, even if that means sending stray cats back to where they were found.

Meisner told lawmakers that cat rescues have been stepping up to the plate to the best of their ability to help thousands of stray cats, but now they are burned out and worn out and the situation needs to be resolved.

Meisner doesnt blame the Oregon Humane Society, where spokesperson Laura Klink says they cant accept most stray cats because they dont have the capacity to hold each one for 90 days. Nor is it healthy for the animal to live in a shelter for so long, Klink says.

This is why we want this statewide solution, Klink said, because right now its basically a patchwork and there are a lot of counties in Oregon that do not have ordinances that specifically address cats.

If House Bill 3604 becomes law, Klink said, the Oregon Humane Society will return to its practice of holding stray cats for three to five days before rehoming them  and that would free up valuable shelter space.

Thousands and thousands of cats

Cat advocates say the bill is needed now more than ever because the stray cat population in Oregon has risen exponentially. The surge was brought on after the onset of the COVID pandemic prompted Oregon to pause spaying and neutering, and cat advocates say veterinarians havent been able to catch up.

There are just so many more cats in the community  stray cats, abandoned cats and in homes, said Veronica Broadley, a support services manager at the Oregon Humane Society. Prior to the pandemic, if we had seen someone with 30 cats in their home, we would have found that they were most likely someone who was experiencing hoarding syndrome.  Nowadays, its pretty common for someone to have 20, 30 cats in their home but theyre looking for solutions. Theyre looking to surrender their pets. Theyre looking for spay and neuter resources.

Frustrations have reached a boiling point.

Chelsey Marks, executive director of Friends of Felines in Marion County, said after doing its due diligence to try to identify any owners, her agency has been willing to weather the potential liability by adopting out stray cats after several days, not 90.

The cats come to us clearly unowned. Theyve been abandoned, they look skinny, theyre not being fed, Marks said. Theres just no reasonable way to hold an animal 90 days and be able to help more. We have to be able to fix them up, get them vaccinated, make them healthy and get them out the door to a loving home so we can get more off the streets.

An Oregon cat up for adoption. (File photo) Sean Meagher/The Oregonian

But even with the shorter hold times, Friends of Felines capacity to take in more cats has been maxed out at times, forcing the organization to turn away people whove come to them with stray cats that theyve found.

Marks said some members of the public have become hostile  even threatening to throw the cats in a river if her organization doesnt take them. So last summer, Friends of Felines instituted a new policy: voicemails and emails only, Marks said.

Its such a problem that we had to stop answering the phone so we dont have to hear those awful things that people were saying, Marks said.

Meisner, at Coalition Advocating for Animals, said her organization became so overwhelmed by the sheer numbers that it decided to stop accepting cats for adoption earlier this year. Instead, she said her organization is now focused solely on spaying and neutering.

You cant imagine what a mess its been, Meisner said. Its like a 100-car pile-up.

The bill unanimously passed the House 45-8 in April. Monday, it won unanimous approval in the Senate Judiciary Committee. Its now headed for a vote on the Senate floor, the last step before landing on Gov. Tina Koteks desk for approval.

Supporters of the bill say legislators who voted against it on the House floor worried that holding a cat for a maximum of five days wouldnt give a lost cats owners enough time to find and claim them.

In the Portland area, Karen Green, executive director of the cat rescue Cat Adoption Team, said the bill would come as a relief . She said the bill would lessen the risk her organization faces of being accused of cat theft  either in civil or criminal courts  for many of the roughly 3,000 felines it finds homes for each year.

We think the legal ground is muddy, Green said. We want it to be really clear, and for there not to be any risk of prosecution.

 Aimee Green is covering the Oregon Legislature this session. Reach her at 503-294-5119, agreen@oregonian.com or on Bluesky.

Our journalism needs your support. Subscribe today to OregonLive.com.
Portland Mayor Keith Wilson and Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson recently released proposed budgets that would keep the regions homeless shelter system whole, despite deep cuts in other areas.

That focus is drawing criticism from the Welcome Home Coalition, which represents more than 80 Portland area homeless service providers dedicated to housing justice.

A shelter bed is not a home, the coalitions executive director, Molly Hogan, told The Oregonian/OregonLive. So its not a long-term solution. If we want to address homelessness, we have to invest in strategies that actually house people.

City and county leaders have positioned their proposed budgets, which also contain funding for rent assistance, eviction prevention and permanent supportive housing for people unable to live independently, as the best way to help the nearly 15,000 homeless people in Multnomah County, more than half of whom are unsheltered.

In 2024, about 18% of people exiting shelter each month went to permanent housing, according to county data. Rates were higher for village-style shelters. But the rates of successful exits to housing for all types of shelter have decreased in recent months as one-time state and federal pandemic relief funding has dried up.

Among people who have previously received temporary or long-term rent assistance in Multnomah County, about 82% had retained their housing for two years as of February.

Wilson has proposed spending about 71% of the citys homeless services and street response budget on shelter. And Vega Pederson has proposed spending about 43% of the countys homeless services budget on shelter. In the past five years, the city and county have added hundreds of new shelter beds in an effort to meet the growing need and the proposed budgets would ensure the areas nearly 3,000 beds remain in operation and fund 1,500 additional beds.

Hogan called shelter an expensive band-aid and drew a parallel between local leaders focus on shelter and President Donald Trumps focus on shelter. Trumps proposed budget, released Friday, would increase funding for emergency shelter and decrease funding for permanent supportive housing.

Our local progressive leaders  their policy and budget priorities mirror the Trump administration, Hogan said. We have to be really honest about that. And thats really concerning.

Wilsons proposed $8.5 billion city budget includes $25 million for his new overnight shelter plan and about $40 million to operate the citys eight village style shelters. Wilson has pledged to open 1,500 new shelter beds, which he has said is key to his pledge to end unsheltered homelessness by Dec. 1.

Emergency night shelter capacity has fallen behind other investments in homeless services, Wilson said in response to the criticism from Hogan. Weve seen the results on our streets: increasing unsheltered homelessness and 456 domicile unknown deaths in the space of a single year.

Cody Bowman, a city spokesperson, said Wilson was working with other jurisdictions and private entities to ensure shelter residents can transition to permanent housing. Last week, the mayor and Gov. Tina Kotek announced an initiative to develop new housing by waiving all housing development fees  known as system development charges  over the next three years or until 5,000 new units are in the pipeline.

In an emailed statement to The Oregonian/OregonLive, Wilson also raised the specter of the current presidential administration when defending his budget and his policy focus.

Failure to end unsheltered homelessness will  ultimately risk mission takeover by a federal administration that does not share our values or compassion, he said.

Hogan agreed with the mayors assessment of the problem, just not with his proposed solution to prioritize shelter.

We deeply appreciate Mayor Wilsons focus and energy on wanting to reduce unsheltered homelessness, she said, praising the mayors seriousness and urgency as a welcome change from previous political leaders. However, we just want to see him invest in the part of the system that actually houses people.

Vega Pedersons proposed $4 billion county budget includes $142 million for housing placement and retention and for permanent supportive housing. Another $130.6 million would go to operating shelters.

Vega Pederson said in a statement that shelter is a life-saving tool, but only one of her homeless services priorities.

Last year, Multnomah County hit a record for re-housing, helping 5,500 people leave homelessness with the support services needed to keep them housed, Vega Pederson wrote. We also spent $16.3 million providing emergency rent assistance to over 3,500 households, helping to prevent evictions and ensure that people who are struggling dont find themselves living on our streets.

The Welcome Home steering committee that signed off directly the groups Tuesday statement includes people with lived experience of homelessness and representatives from established local providers including the Native American Youth and Family Center, Self Enhancement Inc. and the Oregon Food Bank, among others.

Rob Layne, a spokesperson for the citys homeless services division, said he agrees that shelter is not a cure-all for homelessness. But Layne said Welcome Homes criticism was misplaced.

Welcome Homes statement presumes that all those experiencing homelessness in Portland are facing a similar level of challenges, Layne said. In reality, the participants the city works to shelter tend to be those with more intense challenges.

Lillian Mongeau Hughes covers homelessness and mental health for The Oregonian. Email her with tips or questions at lmhughes@oregonian.com. Or follow her on Bluesky @lmonghughes.bsky.social or X at @lrmongeau.

Our journalism needs your support. Please become a subscriber today at OregonLive.com/subscribe
House Bill 3144 also extends the date that manufactured home park tenants can receive grants meant to help them receive legal representation during a dispute with a landlord. The Oregonian

A bill making its way through the Oregon Legislature would prevent new planned communities from banning manufactured and modular homes.

House Bill 3144 would not impact existing communities, only new communities moving forward. Manufactured units would still be subject to the same design requirements of other homes in a community.

While successfully addressing the crisis will take many types of creative solutions, frankly, this bill is an easy one, bill sponsor Rep. Pam Marsh, D-Ashland, told the Senate Committee on Housing and Development on Monday afternoon.

Marsh is the chair of the House Committee on Housing and Homelessness. She represents Jackson County, one of the areas hardest hit when high winds during Labor Day in 2020 contributed to the spread of five megafires. The 2020 Labor Day fires spread across more than 1 million acres, and thousands of homes burned down in Marshs district  ultimately exacerbating the existing affordable housing shortage.

The fires destroyed 18 mobile home parks in the Rogue Valley, wiping out more than 1,500 manufactured homes in Marshs district. Before the fires, Marshs district had the highest number of manufactured homes of any House district.

There are more than 140,000 manufactured homes in Oregon, according to Bill Van Vliet, the Network for Oregon Affordable Housing executive director.

Oregon has both a housing crisis and an affordability crisis, he told the committee. To solve those, we need to remove barriers that unnecessarily prevent the use of existing lower-cost solutions such as manufactured and modular homes. 

Oregon bill would extend grants for mobile home park, marina tenants

House Bill 3144 also extends the date that manufactured home park tenants and marina residents can receive grants meant to help them receive legal representation during a dispute with a landlord to January 2031. Mobile home park residents in Oregon fund these grants through a $10 annual fee which supports the Manufactured and Marina Communities Resource Center.

These programs are paid for by manufactured park tenants, and there is enough money in the fund to pay for at least another two years, Marsh said. Finding a tenant lawyer is difficult, and this program allows them access to critical representation.

Lane County legal aid attorney and Oregon State Tenants Association Vice President John VanLandingham testified in favor of the bill.

VanLandingham said most people living in mobile home parks across Oregon own their homes but rent the land. They pay property taxes, but theyre tenants, he said. Individuals living in floating homes operate similarly.

The bill already passed the House in a 49-7 vote. To become a law, the Senate committee must vote to advance the bill to the Senate floor during a work session at a later date. If passed by the Senate, it would head to Gov. Tina Koteks desk where she may sign the bill into law, allow the bill to become law without her signature or veto the bill.

There would be no financial impact to the state, Marsh said.

-- Mia Maldonado, Oregon Capital Chronicle

The Oregon Capital Chronicle, founded in 2021, is a nonprofit news organization that focuses on Oregon state government, politics and policy.
President Donald Trump speaks with reporters after disembarking Marine One upon arrival on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, Sunday, May 4, 2025. AP

NEW YORK  President Donald Trump is opening a new salvo in his tariff war, targeting films made outside the U.S.

In a post Sunday night on his Truth Social platform, Trump said he has authorized the Department of Commerce and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative to slap a 100% tariff on any and all Movies coming into our Country that are produced in Foreign Lands.

The Movie Industry in America is DYING a very fast death, he wrote, complaining that other countries are offering all sorts of incentives to draw filmmakers and studios away from the U.S. This is a concerted effort by other Nations and, therefore, a National Security threat. It is, in addition to everything else, messaging and propaganda!

The White House said Monday that it was figuring out how to comply with the presidents wishes.

Although no final decisions on foreign film tariffs have been made, the Administration is exploring all options to deliver on President Trumps directive to safeguard our countrys national and economic security while Making Hollywood Great Again, said spokesperson Kush Desai.

Its common for both large and small films to include production in the U.S. and in other countries. Big-budget movies like the upcoming Mission: Impossible  The Final Reckoning, for instance, are shot around the world.

Incentive programs for years have influenced where movies are shot, increasingly driving film production out of California and to other states and countries with favorable tax incentives, like Canada and the United Kingdom.

Yet Trumps tariffs are designed to lead consumers toward American products. And in movie theaters, American-produced movies overwhelmingly dominate the domestic marketplace.

China has ramped up its domestic movie production, culminating in the animated blockbuster Ne Zha 2 grossing more than $2 billion this year. But even then, its sales came almost entirely from mainland China. In North America, it earned just $20.9 million.

In New Zealand, where successive governments have offered rebates and incentives in recent years to draw Hollywood films to the country, the film industry has generated billions of dollars in tourism revenue driven by the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films, which featured the countrys pristine and scenic vistas. More recently, the blockbuster Minecraft movie was filmed entirely in New Zealand, and U.S. productions in 2023 delivered $1.3 billion New Zealand dollars ($777 million) to the country in return for NZ$200 million in subsidies, according to government figures.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said he was awaiting more details of Trumps measures before commenting on them but would continue to pitch to filmmakers abroad, including in Indias Bollywood. Weve got an absolutely world class industry, he said. This is the best place to make movies, period, in the world.

The Motion Picture Association, which represents major U.S. film studios and streaming services, didnt immediately respond to messages Sunday evening.

The MPAs data shows how much Hollywood exports have dominated cinemas. According to the MPA, the American movies produced $22.6 billion in exports and $15.3 billion in trade surplus in 2023.

Trump, a Republican, has made good on the tariff man label he gave himself years ago, slapping new taxes on goods made in countries around the globe. That includes a 145% tariff on Chinese goods and a 10% baseline tariff on goods from other countries, with even higher levies threatened.

By unilaterally imposing tariffs, Trump has exerted extraordinary influence over the flow of commerce, creating political risks and pulling the market in different directions. There are tariffs on autos, steel and aluminum, with more imports, including pharmaceutical drugs, set to be subject to new tariffs in the weeks ahead.

Trump has long voiced concern about movie production moving overseas.

Shortly before he took office, he announced that he had tapped actors Mel Gibson, Jon Voight and Sylvester Stallone to serve as special ambassadors to Hollywood to bring it BACK  BIGGER, BETTER, AND STRONGER THAN EVER BEFORE!

U.S. film and television production has been hampered in recent years, with setbacks from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Hollywood guild strikes of 2023 and the recent wildfires in the Los Angeles area. Overall production in the U.S. was down 26% last year compared with 2021, according to data from ProdPro, which tracks production.

The groups annual survey of executives, which asked about preferred filming locations, found no location in the U.S. made the top five, according to the Hollywood Reporter. Toronto, the U.K., Vancouver, B.C., Central Europe and Australia came out on top, with California placing sixth, Georgia seventh, New Jersey eighth and New York ninth.

The problem is especially acute in California. In the greater Los Angeles area, production last year was down 5.6% from 2023 according to FilmLA, second only to 2020, during the peak of the coronavirus pandemic. Last, October, Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, proposed expanding Californias Film & Television Tax Credit program to $750 million annually, up from $330 million.

Other U.S. cities like Atlanta, New York, Chicago and San Francisco have also used aggressive tax incentives to lure film and TV productions. Those programs can take the form of cash grants, as in Texas, or tax credits, which Georgia and New Mexico offer.

Other nations have been stealing the movie-making capabilities from the United States, Trump told reporters at the White House on Sunday night after returning from a weekend in Florida. If theyre not willing to make a movie inside the United States, we should have a tariff on movies that come in.

By JILL COLVIN and JAKE COYLE, Associated Press
President Donald Trump plans to announce while on a trip to Saudi Arabia next week that the United States will now refer to the Persian Gulf as the Arabian Gulf or the Gulf of Arabia, according to two U.S. officials.

Arab nations have pushed for a change to the geographic name of the body of water off the southern coast of Iran.

The Persian Gulf has been widely known by that name since the 16th century, although usage of Gulf of Arabia and Arabian Gulf is dominant in many countries in the Middle East. The government of Iran  historically Persia  threatened to sue Google in 2012 over the companys decision not to label the body of water at all on its maps.

The U.S. military for years has unilaterally referred to the Persian Gulf as the Arabian Gulf in statements and images it releases.

In January, when he returned to the White House after four years out of office, Trump signed an executive order renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America.

 The Associated Press
Chris Irskine, master security training instructor with the Transportation Security Administration, demonstrates the use of new facial identity verification technology at Portland International Airport in October. More changes came to the airport Wednesday, as the federal REAL ID deadline arrived. Beth Nakamura

Lydia Ashanian arrived at Portland International Airport prepared on Wednesday, as federal transportation authorities soft launched its requirement that travelers carry REAL IDs or other REAL ID-compliant forms of identification.

Ashanian brought both her REAL ID and passport in case something went awry on her way to Indianapolis, she said. And she said she didnt understand how others might have missed the repeated warnings about the switch. Anyone who hasnt gotten their ID by now has been asleep at the wheel somewhere, she said.

Many other travelers at the airport seemed equally ready for the change that has been years in the making. The idea for a more secure form of U.S. identification rolled out after 9/11, was put into law in 2005 and was supposed to be implemented in 2008. But repeated delays pushed back the deadline to Wednesday, and even then the REAL ID deadline wasnt really real.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security officials announced this week that travelers without REAL ID-compliant forms of ID  perhaps because they faced lengthy waits at their local motor vehicle offices  wouldnt be turned away from flights. Instead, they would be asked to undergo additional security checks. Its not clear how long this grace period will last.

Travelers at Portland International Airport faced the federal deadline for REAL ID-compliant forms of identification on Wednesday. Neil and Dian Imper of Tigard said they faced no problems ahead of their flight to California. Quinton Prudhomme/The Oregonian

None of this mattered to Tigard couple Neil and Dian Imper, who were flying to Sacramento on their way to Napa, California.

Dian Imper made an appointment at the Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services as soon as she could, she said, though it took some effort due to demand.

Sooner or later we knew we had to have it so our idea was to get the soonest appointments we could get once we realized the deadline was close, she said.

Travelers at Portland International Airport faced the federal deadline for REAL ID-compliant forms of identification on Wednesday. Jane Wokal brought her passport to avoid any problems, she said. Quinton Prudhomme/The Oregonian

Jane Wokal of Woodland, Washington opted to skip the hassle of getting a REAL ID. She was returning from Green Bay, Wisconsin, where she had celebrated her mothers 97th birthday.

My passport card is just better, she said.

And she sailed through the security checkpoint.

 Quinton Prudhomme is a reporter on the public safety and breaking news team. Reach him at  503-221-8002 or qprudhomme@oregonian.com.

Our journalism needs your support. Subscribe today to OregonLive.com/subscribe.
Visitors walk past the shuttered Oregon Caves Chateau, located near the entrance to the Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek is urging people to get to work restoring a beloved landmark that for years has been sitting in a state of disrepair.

The Oregon Caves Chateau, a six-story chateau completed in 1934 beside the ancient marble cave system, closed in 2018 for much-needed repairs that have not yet materialized  in part due to rising costs and the discovery of new, more serious issues with the building.
OKLAHOMA CITY  After two hours of debate and discussion, House lawmakers on Tuesday sent legislation to Gov. Kevin Stitt that would ban Oklahoma colleges and universities from using state funds for diversity, equity and inclusion jobs, activities or programs.

If signed by Stitt, Senate Bill 796, authored by Rep. Denise Crosswhite Hader, R-Piedmont, would also prevent institutions from requiring DEI statements on applications, the disclosure of pronouns and training related to diversity, equity or inclusion. Schools would have until July 1, 2026, to comply.

Despite criticisms that the bill would claw back advancements in civil rights and inclusion, it advanced from the House and Senate with party line votes as proponents argued outcomes should be based on merit.

NEWSLETTERS * required Thank you for subscribing! Email * Please enter a valid email address First Name Last Name When major news breaks + a few times a week FREE SIGN UP Subscribing...

Crosswhite Hader said DEI has forced students in Oklahoma to take courses or classes that are irrelevant to their degree, prolonging the time and cost of obtaining a postsecondary degree.

Rep. Scott Fetgatter, R-Okmulgee, said DEI discriminates against white men and punishes people who work hard.

The older generation, we got over these racial issues as a society decades ago, before some of you were even born, Fetgatter said.  The older generations, we used to laugh at each other and how stupid our history was.

A former teacher, Rep. Gabe Woolley, R-Broken Arrow, said he blames DEI policies for the discrimination of a white student. He said the student was bullied for being the only white child in the classroom.

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

But Democrats said they worried a DEI ban would bleed into inclusion programs like Oklahoma Promise, a scholarship program for qualified low-income students, and would limit opportunities for underrepresented populations.

Rep. Ellyn Hefner, D-Oklahoma City, said she feared the legislation would negatively impact students with disabilities and their ability to be included in courses, activities and job searches.

Minority Leader Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City, said it took until 2015 for her to be elected as the first Asian American woman in the Oklahoma Legislature. She said its not an indictment of a lack of capable Asian American women, but a lack of representation.

Programs designed to increase inclusion and equity were part of the reason Munson said she was able to be elected to the Legislature.

Rep. Michelle McCane, D-Tulsa, said her own father attended a segregated school, an example of how such exclusions affect people today.

Oklahoma Voice is an affiliate of States Newsroom, a nation 501(c)(3) nonprofit supported by grants and donations focused on delivering state government news. The Voice maintains full editorial independence. For more stories by Oklahoma Voice go to oklahomavoice.com.
A Pennsylvania Senate Committee advanced a bill that would require parents to be notified when authorities find a weapon in school.

The proposal, known as Senate Bill 246, was sponsored by Sens. Jarrett Coleman and Christine Tartaglione. It would mandate schools and school entities to notify parents and guardians about the discovery of a weapon on school property within 24 hours.

Notifying Parents When a Weapon is Brought to School

Additionally, the bill requires schools to notify teachers, administrators, and other staff where the weapons-related incident took place. Coleman argued that under current legislation,m there is nothing that requires school districts to notify parents or guardians about incidents when a weapon is discovered to have been brought into school grounds.

The only time that districts are required to report incidents to the Department of Education is when they relate to expulsions for possession of a weapon on school grounds or a school-sponsored activity.

Coleman said there should be a higher level of transparency when it comes to weapons being brought into school grounds. He added that schools need to be transparent with parents of students when dangerous incidents take place within their grounds, according to the Pennsylvania Capital Star.

The bill would also allow targeted notifications, which is where alerts may be sent to the parents or guardians of only those who are at a particular event. Coleman also offered an amendment to the proposal, which clarifies it would apply to "non-public" or "private" schools across the state.

On the other hand, opponents of the bill raised questions about what the proposal actually defined as a "weapon." Sen. Anthony Williams said that he agrees with parents, staff, and students being notified when a weapon is found.

The Definition of 'Weapon'

He noted that in its current version, the bill's definition of weapon is "pretty broad," saying he will work with Coleman to properly define it. Williams justified his concern by saying that there have been unjustified instances in the past, Yahoo News reported.

Some examples are when students were suspended from school for bringing a sharpened pencil or having scissors. Williams added that lawmakers should also consider the possibility of some students carrying weapons to school because of safety reasons.

The situation comes as a Pennsylvania man was accused of plotting a high school shooting in April 2025. The individual was identified as Braeden Philips, who reportedly conspired with another individual to "commit murder(s) by planning a coordinated school shooting on Apr. 21, 2025, as per CNN.
Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt signed a yearlong ban on cellphones in public schools across the state into law.

The development puts Oklahoma in line with 11 other states across the country that have implemented similar restrictions in schools. Some school districts in the region have already enforced similar policies.

Oklahoma School Cellphone Ban

On Monday, Stitt signed Senate Bill 139 to implement the "bell to bell" ban for the 2025-26 school year. The cellphone restriction will become optional for school districts in the following school year and moving forward.

When the yearlong ban on cellphones is implemented, the school board of each district is required to adopt a policy that restricts students from using various devices. These include cellphones, laptops, tablets, smart watches, smart headphones, and smart glasses.

They will not be able to use these devices from the first bell ringing on the instructional day until final dismissal from school. Additionally, the policy is required to outline disciplinary procedures in enforcing the rule among students, according to the Oklahoma Voice.

Devices that were issued or approved by schools to be used for classroom instruction will be exceptions to the law. Districts are also given the authority to permit cellphone use for emergencies for students who require them to monitor specific health issues.

The Oklahoma governor previously urged public schools to look for cost-neutral solutions that would make classrooms cellphone-free. This would be made to reverse a "worrying trend" of distraction, bullying, and learning difficulties.

Sen. Ally Seifried, a supporter of the bill, argued that the law was designed to create a distraction-free learning environment for students. She added that it will help teachers focus on educating children, who can concentrate on learning, the Journal Record reported.

Rise of Cellphone Usage in Classrooms

In a statement on Tuesday, Stitt argued that classrooms across the United States struggle with a rise in the usage of cellphones by students inside classrooms. He cited this as a reason why he issued his cellphone-free school challenge.

The governor noted that he wants children to focus and be present while they are being taught by their teachers. He added that the legislation helps promote an environment that is conducive to learning.

The situation comes as Sen. Kristen Thompson and Rep. Anthony Moore authored Senate Bill 758. The legislation will restrict Oklahoma school districts to having only two virtual days every school year that can count toward the 180-day or 1,080-hour school year instructional requirement, as per The Oklahoman.
Details regarding the approaching 2025 FAIR conference can be found here. I hope to see you there, although its very likely that I wont be speaking on the topic thats currently listed for me online. Im not even sure where that title came from. Did I suggest it? If I did, I dont remember it.

I also hope to see you at this coming Saturdays second (and last) day of the Interpreter Foundation symposium on Abraham and His Family in Scripture, History, and Tradition. I will be presenting there, although I must caution you that I genuinely dont regard my paper as very interesting. By contrast, I spoke with my friend Jack Welch today about the presentation that he gave at the symposium last Saturday; I think that the argument he presented is absolutely intriguing.

A number of years ago, I was chatting with a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy (now long emeritus) about partisan politics and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. (This member of the Seventy held a doctorate in political science from Harvard University and had had an impressive international academic career prior to his call to full-time ecclesiastical work.) He recalled a conversation with the late Michael Deaver, who had served for several years as deputy White House chief of staff under Ronald Reagan, in which Deaver thanked him for Latter-day Saint loyalty to the Republican Party. Feeling impish, Elder X responded that, actually, the majority of Latter-day Saints were probably socialists. Mr. Deaver was surprised and puzzled, so Elder X explained that most members of the Church now live outside of the United States and that, for example, most Venezuelan Saints were almost certainly Chavistas.

Mr. Deaver had forgotten  or, more likely, didnt know  about the existence of Latter-day Saints beyond the borders of the United States of America. And so too, seemingly, do those who prattle confidently about how almost all members of the Church are absolutely in love with Donald Trump. It turns out, though, that most members of the Church arent Americans at all, let alone MAGA Republicans. For example, the first Latter-day Saint member of the British House of Commons was Terry Rooney, who was the Labour MP for Bradford North from 1990 to 2010. David Rutley, of the Conservative Party, served as the MP for Macclesfield from 2010 until 2024. Brian Adam, a biochemist, union activist, and member of the Scottish National Party, served as a member of the Scottish Parliament from 1999 until his premature death from cancer in 2013. Stephen Kerr was a Conservative member of the British Parliament from 2017 to 2019 and has been a member of the Scottish Parliament since 2021. There is variety among these four examples, but none of them seems to be (or to have been) a MAGA-style Trump Republican.

However, even claims that American members of the Church are exceptionally devoted to the person of Mr. Donald J. Trump dont quite hold up to scrutiny. It is true, of course, that Latter-day Saints have tended strongly Republican through many presidential election cycles. In a 2016 article titled U.S. religious groups and their political leanings, published just before Donald Trump became the Republican presidential nominee for the first time, the Pew Research Center reported that

Mormons are the most heavily Republican-leaning religious group in the U.S. . . . Seven-in-ten U.S. Mormons identify with the Republican Party or say they lean toward the GOP, compared with 19% who identify as or lean Democratic  a difference of 51 percentage points. Thats the biggest gap in favor of the GOP out of 30 religious groups we analyzed, which include Protestant denominations, other religious groups and three categories of people who are religiously unaffiliated.

Later that year, months after publication of the Pew Research Center piece, Mr. Trump dominated Utahs presidential caucus with a massive 14% of the Republican vote, eventually surging to a commanding 45.5% of Utah ballots in the states November presidential election. His performance in Utahs 2016 general election represented the second worst Republican electoral performance out of the last fourteen presidential contests in the state, and his next two presidential runs represented the fourth and fifth worst. Its very difficult to see those figures as illustrating an exceptional infatuation in Utah or among Latter-day Saints with Donald Trump.

According to exit polls released shortly after last years national election, high percentages of Latter-day Saints in Nevada, Arizona, and Utah did indeed vote for Mr. Trump. But the national exit polls are interesting:

According to Fox News 2024 election exit poll, among the Latter-day Saints surveyed 64% supported Trump and 32% supported Vice President Kamala Harris. . . . The 2020 Fox News exit poll showed nationally 72% of Latter-day Saints supported Trump compared to 23% for former President Joe Biden.

The difference between a 72% pro-Trump vote in 2020  pretty much on the mark for the seven-in-ten U.S. Mormons [who] identify with the Republican Party or say they lean toward the GOP mentioned in the 2016 article above  and the 64% pro-Trump vote four years later, in 2024, doesnt argue strongly for any unusual and growing allegiance to Donald Trump among Latter-day Saints.

For purposes of comparison, an article from the Pew Research Center (White evangelicals continue to stand out in their support for Trump), dated 28 April 2025  slightly more than a week ago  supplies the following figures:

72% approve of the way Trump is currently handling his job as president.

69% rate the ethics of top Trump administration officials as excellent or good.

57% say they trust what Trump says more than what previous presidents said.

And here is a recent article from the Deseret News (20 April 2025: Heres what Utah voters say about Trumps job performance: Trump touted his achievements from his almost 100 days in office):

Despite being a red state, Utah is divided on Trumps job performance. A slight majority, 54%, said they somewhat or strongly approve of what Trump has done so far, and 42% disapprove, while 5% said they dont know.

By now, I suppose that it wont surprise anybody who follows this blog that I regard an approval rating of 54% as much higher than Donald Trump deserves. But 54% certainly doesnt indicate a massive and exceptional Latter-day Saint enthusiasm for Mr. Trump, let along a growing enthrallment with him  and especially not when that figure is compared with, say, his current rate of approval among American Evangelical Protestants.

One final point: There is, it seems to me, a significant difference between someone who is enraptured with Mr. Trump in particular and a habitual Republican voter of more or less conservative inclinations who opted for Mr. Trump (a) because Mr. Trump was the Republican nominee and (b) because that voter regarded Hillary Clinton and/or Joe Biden and/or Kamala Harris as flatly unpalatable. I know a few genuine Trump enthusiasts. I know many more people, though, who simply oppose the current Democratic Party, which they associate with transgender athletes, defunding the police, overregulation, urban anarchy, and a host of other positions that they deem beyond the pale. The former are MAGA Republicans. The latter are just Republicans, or conservatives.

And while were at it, heres a piece by Yonat Shimron at the Religion News Service: These women are giving their legislators a piece of their mind  one quilt square at a time: Mormon Women for Ethical Government and its allies have assembled 57 quilts to present to members of Congress on Wednesday.

Finally, its time for yet another depressing entry from the Christopher Hitchens Memorial How Religion Poisons Everything File. This one, originally from U.S. News & World Report, comes from the subsection of the Hitchens File that is affectionately known among connoisseurs of horror as Utah is Hell on Earth, Thanks to the Mormons: Politics, Religion and Why Utah Is (Again) the Best State in America: Utah shines in hard-data areas like the economy and education  but dont overlook its more intangible traits.
The RSAC Conference is a unique opportunity for speaking with worldwide cybersecurity experts. Many folks are so deep in the trenches that they casually toss out great tips whenever you chat with them.

A great example: This acronym I picked up from Kelly Bissell, corporate vice president of fraud within Microsofts Security division. It focuses on how to avoid job scamsthat is, phony listings and opportunities that might cross your path. But you can take away the general principles and apply them to other types of scams, too.

Stay S-A-F-E

Bissell says you should be:

S ure of the company youre applying with

ure of the company youre applying with A ble to apply for free

ble to apply for free F inding the job listing elsewhere online

inding the job listing elsewhere online Examining job offers carefully and confirming the legitimacy of the companies

Look into a company to be sure of them, especially if the offer is unsolicited. Is there a company website with contact info? How long has it been in business? Can you find employees on LinkedIn, and what do their backgrounds look like? Do you know anyone in your network who works there that you can speak to? Or at the very least, whats the good word on Reddit and job forums?

Job applications should never cost you a cent. Thats standard practice, no matter the industry and job level. Perhaps you may pay for necessary education (where you get to select the school or certification program) or a certification, but not to apply. A legitimate place does not ask for moneytimes havent changed on this point.

Legitimate job offerings can be found on company sites or job listing sitesand usually more than one at a time. Monster.com / PCWorld

The work opportunity should be findable elsewhere, not just in the message you were sent. Depending on the field and position, you may be able to verify online through job listing websites and the companys official website. Or, you may instead have to go through walking in the business and speaking with an official contact, like a manager or the owner.

Once you start finding info on the job and the company, also do a gut check, especially if youre made an offer. Examine the facts you have for any red flagsdo the hours seem strange? Does the wage match the usual industry standard for pay? In general, you want to confirm that the type of employment, schedule, wage or salary, location, and the manager you report to sound appropriate and fair. And again, be sure that youre speaking to the actual company, not an impersonator.

Dodge all the scams

This advice is geared toward job scams, but you should check out other scams with this kind of thoroughness, too. Are you talking with a potential romantic partner or someone else online who is interested in getting to know you better? Is your kid on the phone or messaging you, begging you for help with a crashed car or posting bail? Has your bank texted you, saying your account has been frozen?

In these sample scenarios, stop and ask yourself, How well do I trust that this contact is legitimate? Are they asking for money? Does this inquiry involve my financial accounts, or could they eventually lead up to requesting cash? Have I verified this situation, or is this person who they say they are? What do I really know about this situation theyve outlined?

Nope. Dont respond to this person. Celia Ong

Scammers want you to be emotionally off-balance so they can take advantage. Dont let them play off the fully human need to be gainfully employed, seek companionship, protect your family, keep your bank accounts safe, and the like.

Take inspiration from Bissells grandmother: When warned not to fall for any distressed child scams, she told Bissell shed let him sit in jail. Her reasoning? He wouldnt be there unless hed been up to no good.

Harsh, maam. But not a bad default while youre verifying the situation independently.
OpenAI, the company that develops ChatGPT, has decided to cancel its plans to transform the organization into a for-profit company. Instead, the non-profit organization that founded OpenAI will continue to run the business as before.

The for-profit plans, announced in December 2024, were justified at the time by a need to secure sufficient capital to keep developing expensive artificial general intelligence (AGI). Now, instead of a full conversion to a for-profit company, OpenAIs for-profit LLC will be transformed into a Public Benefit Corporation (PBC), which is a type of US company thats beholden to both its shareholders and its purpose-driven mission. The existing OpenAI non-profit organization will retain control of the PBC and become one of its largest shareholders.

OpenAI says the decision was made after listening to community leaders and engaging in constructive dialogue with the Attorneys General of the states of Delaware and California.

Founded in 2015 as a non-profit organization, OpenAI has been the subject of widespread criticism for wanting to transition to a for-profit structure. Critics include co-founder Elon Muskwho has sued OpenAI for abandoning its original mission to develop AI for the benefit of humanityas well as former employees, other non-profit organizations, Nobel laureates, and law professors.

According to TechCrunch, OpenAI reportedly needed to complete its for-profit transformation before the end of this or next year in order to not risk losing some of its recently raised capital. Its still unclear whatif anythe consequences might be with OpenAI backing out of those plans.
Googles online advertising business has been ruled a monopoly, as determined by a United States federal judge at the tail end of a long antitrust case. And just like the Department of Justice wants Google to get rid of the Chrome browser, it officially wants Google to break off its advertising business as punishment, specifically its DoubleClick for Publishers and AdX products.

The DOJ recommending that Google be forced to sell or otherwise divest itself of its advertising divisions doesnt automatically mean thatll happen. The judge in the case would need to approve the Departments recommendation (which also bars Google from running an ad exchange for 10 years) over Googles or their own solution. Then theres the possibility of appeals that will certainly be exhausted by Googles lawyers, to say nothing of the X factor that is the Trump administration, which has shown a tendency to try to exert its own will on federal procedures in unpredictable ways.

But the worst case scenario at the end of both of these casesfor Google anywayis that the company could be forced to sell or otherwise get rid of both the Chrome browser (and its associated products, Chromium and ChromeOS for Chromebook laptops, etc.) and its advertising business. That wouldnt completely destroy Google, but it would effectively mean the end of its two-decade dominance as a tech giant.

It seems likely that the cases, appeals, etc. will drag on for months at least, possibly into 2026 before everything shakes out. Well be keeping a close eye on them, naturally.
After introducing smaller, lower-priced Surface devices this week, Microsoft has quietly raised the prices of its older Surface devices to compensate  well, kind of.

Microsoft launched a new 13-inch Surface Laptop for as low as $899.99 and a 12-inch Surface Pro for $799.99. The two devices are just a tad smaller than the existing Surface Laptop and Surface Pro and slightly cheaper as well: the base prices of the existing, older Surface Laptop 7th Edition and the Surface Pro 11th Edition are $999.

As reported by XDA Developers, Microsoft has now widened the pricing gap, implementing a $200 difference between the smaller Surface Pro and Laptop and the existing models from May 2024. But thats not precisely true, either.

Instead, Microsoft has eliminated the lowest-priced 13.8-inch Surface Laptop offering from its website. Last May, you could buy a 13.8-inch Surface Laptop, in Platinum, with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of SSD storage, for $999, according to the price list Microsoft provided us. Now, the cheapest 13.8-inch Surface Laptop is a Black model but with 16GB of RAM and a larger 512GB SSD instead, with an MSRP of $1,199.99  but one of those models, too, has been marked down to a discounted $1,031.47. (Microsoft sometimes offers educational or military discounts, but I used an anonymous browser to check that information.) Otherwise, the MSRP of that model remains the same as last May.

It also appears that the remaining devices in the existing 13.8- and 15-inch Surface Laptop line have retained the same pricing as before, too.

In the 15-inch Laptop, Microsoft says that the cheapest $1,299 option (a Platinum model with a Snapdragon X Elite, 16GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD) is out of stock. But the next step up the ladder remains unchanged at $1,499.99 for a black laptop with an X Elite / 16GB RAM / 512GB SSD.. The other models are, too, up to the top-of-the-line $2,499 model, which is now out of stock as well.

Microsoft appears to be making slight tweaks in its Surface Pro line as well. Again, Microsoft appears to have removed all of its Surface Pro 11th Edition models with 256GB of SSD storage. That effectively eliminated the cheapest $999.99 model from last year. Now, the cheapest 13-inch Surface Pros carry an MSRP of $1,199 for models with Wi-Fi, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. Even then, Microsoft has marked down the Sapphire version to $1,029.99, a $170 discount.

Otherwise, it seems like the other Surface Pro prices, for both the OLED and LCD models, remain the same. (A $1,299 Platinum model is now out of stock.)

Essentially, Microsoft is raising prices by eliminating its cheapest options from its existing Surface Pro and Surface Laptop lineups and carving out more space for the smaller Surfaces to exist. And its unclear whether Microsoft will leave those discounts at the low end in place.

For now, though, it appears that the Surface prices are safe.
The Hershey Islamic Center is planning to build a 47,944-square-foot building on this 9.5 acre property on Stoverdale Road in Derry Township behind a Sheetz convenience store and near the Stoverdale Commons shopping center. Daniel Urie | durie@pennlive.com

The Derry Township Planning Commission has recommended that a project proposed by the Hershey Islamic Center be approved.

The Hershey Islamic Center is planning to build a 47,944-square-foot building on a 9.5-acre property on Stoverdale Road in Derry Township behind a Sheetz convenience store and near the Stoverdale Commons shopping center.
The Frog, Switch & Manufacturing Co. at 600 E. High St. in Carlisle ceased production on June 30, 2023. (DAN GLEITER/THE PATRIOT-NEWS, File photo) Dan Gleiter/The Patriot-News

The state plans to invest millions of dollars to rescue a large industrial site with massive machines as large as a small house.

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has awarded more than $10 million in grant and loan money to assist in the future redevelopment of the former manufacturing plant in Carlisle.
A Lancaster man will spend seven to 20 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to a dozen felony offenses related to a shooting and the sexual abuse of a minor, the county district attorneys office said.

Isaiah Cabrera, 24, fired a gun at a person outside a home on the 100 block of Tanglewood Lane, in Maheim Township, around noon on Aug. 4, 2023, according to the DAs office. The person was not injured, police said.
A Lancaster County man was taken into custody Wednesday afternoon after police said he shot another person in the parking lot of a Dauphin County bar Tuesday night, according to an affidavit of probable cause.

A Swatara Township Police sergeant was driving along the 4400 block of Derry Street around 10:37 p.m. when he heard multiple gunshots and saw a man, later identified as the victim, running toward his patrol car and waving his arms.

The victim told the officer he was shot in the parking lot of the Triple B Restaurant and Bar located at 4401 Derry Street, the affidavit said.
This airport is currently experiencing a series of delays and cancellations. (Getty Images) Getty Images

Summer is almost here, meaning one of the busiest travel seasons of the year will soon get underway.

But anyone flying should take note to, apparently, avoid this airport like the plague.

New Jersey Digest reports how an unnamed veteran air traffic controller has stated that  if people are looking for flights  they should stay away from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).

According to Mens Journal, NBC News correspondent Tom Costello cited this controller in the wake of severe delays at the airport concerning both incoming and outgoing flights. FlightAware showed how about 270 flights were backed up as of Saturday.

It is not safe. It is not a safe situation right now for the flying public, Costello said.

He added: [The veteran air traffic controller] said that to me, and separately, Dont fly into Newark. Avoid Newark at all costs.

Mens Journal explains how the current issues at Newark are mostly attributed to a lack of staff; over 20 percent of the airports FAA have recently left their jobs.

On top of that, the Hudson Valley Post highilights how United Airlines just cut 35 daily round-trip flights in and out of Newark.

In the past few days, on more than one occasion, technology that FAA air traffic controllers rely on to manage the airplanes coming in and out of Newark airport failed  resulting in dozens of diverted flights, hundreds of delayed and cancelled flights and worst of all, thousands of customers with disrupted travel planes, said United CEO Scott Kirby via statement.

Unfortunately, the technology issues were compounded as over 20 percent of FAA controllers for EWR walked off the job.

Kirby continued: Keep in mind this particular air traffic control facility has been chronically understaffed for years and without these controllers, its now clear  and the FAA tells us  that Newark airport cannot handle the number of planes that are scheduled to operate there in the weeks and months ahead.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has introduced various hiring incentives and retention bonuses to encourage new employees and to keep current ones.
A number of people in Pennsylvania will receive checks in the mail soon, if they havent already.

And no, these checks arent tax refunds. They arent a ploy sent by nefarious folks trying to pull a fast one on unsuspecting individuals, either.

Listen to a report on this news story  along with others important to Pennsylvania  on the original Today in PA podcast episode below:

According to The Morning Call, the state government was the one who sent out these checks as part of a program called Pennsylvania Money Match.

Money Match is a new way for the Pennsylvania Treasury Department to return unclaimed property to its rightful owners! the treasurys website explains. Its a law that was supported unanimously by the General Assembly and signed into law by the Governor.

When [the] Treasury identifies people with unclaimed property that meets the laws requirements, we will automatically return it to you!

According to a press release published in March, the state Treasury Department  after a thorough identification and verification process  will automatically return single-owner properties valued up to $500. Letters notifying those who have such unclaimed property were sent out starting in January.

The treasury is going to send you this money that we located for you, Treasurer Stacy Garrity reiterated during an announcement of the first checks release. Cash it. Its not a scam. Its your money.

The first round of the Money Match program involved a total of 7,380 checks going out amounting to $1.7 million total in returned unclaimed property. These checks will be sent quarterly; the next batch  which will involve 40,000 checks  will be sent out this month.

Im thrilled to get this money back to hardworking Pennsylvanians with Money Match, Garrity stated via the release.

Thanks to the tremendous support from the General Assembly and the Governor, we were actually able to remove red tape in government, something thats almost unheard of, by implementing this great program.

For more information, please click here.
The company is grappling with over $1 billion in debt. (AP Photo/Richard Drew, File) AP

Of all the weight-loss fads and companies that have come and gone, WeightWatchers might be amongst the most recognizable.

Alas, this latest news might be signaling the end of an era.

WeightWatchers just filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protections in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware.

Parent Company WW International Inc. explained that this bankruptcy was part of an attempt to eliminate $1.15 billion in debt. Additionally, WeightWatchers is looking to focus its transition into becoming a telehealth service provider.

According to a statement published to the companys website, WeightWatchers will still be fully operational throughout this process. Members or plans will not be impacted, and each of its trade creditors and other general unsecured creditors will be fully paid.

WeightWatchers was first founded in 1962 by Jean Nidetch who wanted accountability on her own weight-loss journey, the website explains. The company has since expanded internationally, solidifying itself as one of the go-to places to start a healthy lifestyle.

For more than 62 years, WeightWatchers has empowered millions of members to make informed, healthy choices, staying resilient as trends have come and gone, said Chief Executive Officer Tara Comonte via the statement. The decisive actions were taking today, with the overwhelming support of our leaders and noteholders, will give us the flexibility to accelerate innovation, reinvest in our members, and lead with authority in a rapidly evolving weight management landscape.

As the conversation around weight shifts toward long-term health, our commitment to delivering the most trust, science-backed and holistic solutions  grounded in community support and last results  has never been stronger, or more important.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Mechanicsburg Borough Council votes Tuesday night to hire Robert Glenny Jr. as its police chief. May 6, 2025. Sean Simmers |ssimmers@pennlive.com Sean Simmers

After Robert Glenny Jr. led the Gettysburg Police Department for more than six years, Mechanicsburg Borough Council members voted unanimously Tuesday night to hire him as police chief.

Glenny will replace Margaret Myers, 65, who has served as the Mechanicsburg Police chief since 2015. Glennys swearing-in ceremony will take place at the first borough council meeting in June.
Cecilia Fuller of Syracuse stands stunned outside her home Monday, October 30, 2023 after Howie Guja and Fahlon Brown of Publishers Clearing House presented her with a check for $1 million. N. Scott Trimble | strimble@syracuse.com

Publishers Clearing House was a dream for folks of a certain age.

Through the 1980s and into the 1990s it was not uncommon to see the commercials on television of folks being surprised at their door with an oversized $1 million dollar check. Your mom or grandmother, maybe even you, probably dreamed of getting that knock and cashing that big old check.

And, believe it or not, plenty of folks did get the knock from Publishers Clearing House as it reportedly paid out more than $618 million in prizes while also reportedly donating millions to veterans causes and childrens hospitals.

Some folks really did live the dream, and apparently the payouts kept coming right on into recent years.

But, alas, Publishers Clearing House was fueled by the magazine industry, and that has fallen off substantially across the past 20 years or so. According to The Street, print publication advertising revenue dropped from $20 billion in 2007 to $2.3 billion in 2023. The site said that Publishers Clearing House tried to expand to e-commerce, but it just couldnt make up for the lost money.

And, in 2023, The Street said Publishers Clearing House was also ordered to pay out $18.5 million to customers who believed they were victims of misleading claims.

And with all of those factors coming together, Publishers Clearing House LLC is struggling to stay afloat.

According to The Street, the company filed a motion with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York on May 1. That motion seeks approval to sell all or substantially all of its assets as part of its Chapter 11 bankruptcy, per the site.

Publishers Clearing House proposed the auction in an attempt to preserve its intellectual property and perhaps save the brand, the site reported. The business also reportedly got a loan from Prestige Capital Finance LLC., so that it can continue, at least for now.

Per The Street, the companys assets included intellectual property, an extensive customer database, and brand recognition.

The company first field for Chapter 11 protection on April 9.

While it is attempting to stay afloat, things dont appear to be looking good for the company that many folks dreamed might knock on their door and deliver a big old check, back in the day.
Bill Bachenberg of Lehigh County says he wants to move the NRA forward and away from scandals of the past. FILE Donna Fisher | lehighvalleylive.com contributor

One of Donald Trumps biggest and most controversial Pennsylvania-based supporters, has assumed the top job at the National Rifle Association, a move that could have major political implications for the commonwealth and beyond.

Bill Bachenberg, the owner of an Allentown-area shooting range and a major Trump fundraiser, was elected NRA president by the organizations board last week. He is looking to move the organization past its previous scandals and reinvigorate it for the 2026 election.
Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., talks to reporters outside the chamber during a vote, at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, March 13, 2025. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) AP

Sen. John Fetterman called a story that called his mental state into question a hit piece when asked about it by several news outlets on Tuesday, according to The Hill.

It reported that Fetterman, the Democratic senator from Pennsylvania, told NBC News when asked about the piece that its a one-source story with a couple of anonymous sources, a hit piece from a very left publication.

New York Magazines story last week described how close aides have grown increasingly worried about Fettermans erratic behavior, which has included arguments with his wife, Gisele, over Israels military offensive in Gaza, a serious car accident and skipping required medical appointments.

Ben Terris, the Washington correspondent for New York Magazine and the author of the story, wrote that most of the staffers I spoke with are angry. They are troubled. And they are sad. These were some of Fettermans truest believers, and they now question his fitness to be a senator. They worry he may present a risk to the Democratic Party and maybe even to himself.

In addition to his response to NBC News, Fetterman told CNN in an interview on Tuesday that the information used in the hit piece involved information from maybe two or three and anonymous disgruntled staffers saying absolute false things.

New York Magazine did not immediately respond to a request for comment, the Hills story said.
The PokerStars European Poker Tour Monte-Carlo 2025 champion is set to walk away with 1,000,000 after the entry numbers, prize pool and payouts were confirmed on Day 2. A total of 1,195 entries made this the second biggest Main Event in the stop's 20-year history, just a few entries short of last year's numbers, culminating in a prize pool of 5,795,750.

The Sporting-Monte Carlo venue was packed to the rafters with hopefuls as the tournament got underway, 448 players returning for Day 2 to see the roof retract and the welcome return of sunshine here on the Mediterranean coast. Of those, 175 made the money and locked up at least a min-cash of 8,500, while 149 bagged for Day 3.

Andreas Goeller took the chip lead late on thanks to a great call against Antoine Saout in a massive pot, which took Goeller up to 831,000 chips, much to his delight. The Italian player came fifth in the EPT San Remo back in 2014, which makes up the majority of his recorded live scores. Goeller will be looking to top that score as he enters Day 3 with the chip advantage.

Goeller's lead, however, is all but secure. Jeremie Beneteau bagged in second place with 829,000, meaning less than one big blind seperates the two when they return. Third place Mariusz Golinski bagged for 820,000, making it a super tight race at the top of the chip counts.

Top Ten End of Day 2 Chip Counts

Rank Player Country Chip Count Big Blinds 1 Andreas Goeller Italy 831,000 208 2 Jeremie Beneteau France 829,000 207 3 Mariusz Golinski Poland 820,000 205 4 Leon Zeaiter Germany 796,000 199 5 Sebastian Gaehl Germany 757,000 189 6 Mengshi Tian Hong Kong 755,000 189 7 Juan Pardo Spain 685,000 171 8 Nicolas Tytgat France 559,000 140 9 Ramana Epparla United States 510,000 128 10 Manuel Carvalho Portugal 500,000 125

The bubble burst during the last level of play when Ian Gascoigne ran his ace-queen into a set of fours on an ace-high flop against Conor Beresford. The rest of the room clapped and cheered as they made their way into the money. Beresford went on to bag for 282,000.

Bubble Main Event EPT Montecarlo 2025

Several former EPT champions are still in contention, including Sebastian Malec (395,000), Patrik Antonius (227,000), Dimitar Danchev (163,000), Manig Loeser (129,000), Noah Boeken (102,000), and Antonio Buonanno (100,000). Defending champion Derk van Luijk was eliminated just short of the money and will not be in the running for back-to-back titles.

PokerStars Ambassadors Kenny Hallaert and Benjamin Spragg were battling on the feature table early on Day 2. Both reached paid positions, but only Hallaert advanced (83,000), while Spragg took the min-cash of 8,500 after being eliminated in 155th place. That makes Hallaert the last Ambassador standing in the Main Event.

Other notables who found a bag include Andras Nemeth (400,000), Nacho Barbero (282,000), Day 1b chip leader Cesar Garcia (212,000) Boris Angelov (194,000) and Niclas Thumm (127,000).

Day 1a chip leader David Docherty wasn't so fortunate. He lost a huge pot against Qing Lu midway through the day and was eliminated in 226th place.

Day 3 starts on Wednesday, May 7, at 12 p.m. local time with the blinds at 2,000/5000 and will play for five 90-minute levels. The feature table will be streamed by PokerStars from 12:30 p.m. local time on YouTube and Twitch.

Stay tuned for live updates of Day 3 as PokerNews brings you coverage straight from the tournament floor as the Main Event runs deeper into the money.
Reporter

Carl Dawson covers education for the Aiken Standard. An Aiken County resident since 1990, his work has appeared in the Charleston News & Courier, the Tampa Tribune, the Atlanta Constitution and the Augusta Chronicle. He holds a B.A. in English from the University of South Carolina.
Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

Cloudy this morning. A few showers developing during the afternoon. High around 85F. Winds NE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Tropical storm conditions possible. Cloudy with occasional rain showers. Low 74F. Winds N at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

Partly cloudy this morning. A few showers developing during the afternoon. High 84F. Winds NE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Tropical storm conditions possible. Considerable cloudiness with occasional rain showers. Low 74F. Winds N at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
Local Government Reporter

Josh Archote covers the city of Columbia and Richland County for the Post and Courier. He graduated from Louisiana State University and has written for the Tampa Bay Times.
Growth & Development Reporter

Caleb Bozard covers business, growth and development for The Post and Courier Columbia. He has previously written for The State and the Times and Democrat. He graduated from the University of South Carolina in 2023.
Reporter

Spencer Donovan covers Greenville for The Post and Courier. He's an Atlanta native and graduate of the University of Georgia. You can find him on walks around town, eating at local restaurants and hiking in the mountains.
Summerville, SC (29483)

Today

A steady rain this morning. Showers continuing this afternoon. High 84F. Winds NE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall near a half an inch..

Tonight

Overcast with rain showers at times. Low 73F. Winds N at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Editor

Ralph Mancini is an award-winning editor whos been employed by the Post and Courier since 2022. Previously, Mancini served in a variety of newspaper roles in New York City, Washington State and North Dakota.
Mount Pleasant, SC (29464)

Today

Tropical storm conditions possible. Windy with occasional showers. High 83F. Winds NE at 20 to 30 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Tropical storm conditions possible. Overcast with rain showers at times. Low 74F. Winds N at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
The sight of small-to-average sized homes and quaint shops in Mount Pleasant's Old Village may soon be a thing of the past, according to some Mount Pleasant residents.
Myrtle Beach, SC (29577)

Today

Tropical storm conditions possible. Light rain early...then remaining cloudy with showers and windy conditions developing for the afternoon. High 79F. Winds ENE at 20 to 30 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Tropical storm conditions possible. A steady, heavy rain this evening. Showers with perhaps a rumble of thunder developing overnight. Low 74F. Winds ENE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 100%. 1 to 2 inches of rain expected.
PR-Inside.com: 2025-05-07 20:28:11

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 372 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

New location offers extended hours and same-day urgent care for pets-seven days a week.SUMMERVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 / AcutePet Urgent Care is proud to announce the opening of its second South Carolina location in Summerville. Conveniently located at 143 Berkeley Circle-just off Old Light Road, near the cut-through to Nexton and close to Azalea Square-this new facility offers same-day, emergency-level veterinary care in a calm, urgent care setting. AcutePet Urgent Care Summerville, SC AcutePet Urgent Care location in Summerville, SC now openOpen seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., AcutePet is committed to supporting pets and their owners during unexpected emergencies. Founded by Dr. David Sachs and Dr. Doug Hoffman, AcutePet's mission is to make high-quality veterinary care more accessible and affordable."Our goal with AcutePet is to provide immediate care for pets while supporting the veterinary profession we've dedicated ourselves to for over 30 years," said Dr. David Sachs, co-CEO of AcutePet. "This new location in Summerville allows us to continue that mission-offering compassionate, high-quality urgent care in a way that's both affordable and convenient for pet owners." Dr. Doug Hoffman, co-CEO of AcutePet, added, "The Summerville community, local pet owners, and nearby businesses have been incredibly welcoming. We truly felt the excitement during our recent ribbon-cutting ceremony, which was attended by the Summerville Chamber of Commerce, neighboring businesses, our staff, family, and friends. We are honored to be part of this community and to provide immediate, affordable care for pets in need." With more than 60 years of combined experience in the veterinary field, Drs. Sachs and Hoffman understand the critical importance of affordable, timely, accessible care. Modeled after human urgent care clinics, AcutePet provides trusted, same-day and walk-in services staffed by an experienced and compassionate team-so your pet can feel better, faster. The facility features on-site lab services, digital imaging, and outpatient anesthetized procedures, all using advanced monitoring equipment.AcutePet currently operates locations in Beavercreek, OH; West Chester, OH; Bellevue, KY; Mount Pleasant, SC; and now Summerville, SC, with a new clinic planned for Voorhees, NJ in 2025.For more information or to schedule a visit, please go towww.acutepeturgentcare.com Contact InformationStephanie Serraino 513-836-8425SOURCE: AcutePet Urgent Care
PR-Inside.com: 2025-05-07 16:00:31

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 877 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

Steve Gosling of Cheer Pack North America Named First Recipient of Annual AwardBIRMINGHAM, MI / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 / Packaging Strategiesand Global Pouch Forum are pleased to announce that Steve Gosling, president of Cheer Pack North America (N.A.), is the inaugural recipient of the Steve Fairfield Memorial Award for Flexible Packaging Innovation. Packaging Strategies will present the award during the 2025 Global Pouch Forum, taking place June 18-20 in Clearwater, FL.The new Steve Fairfield Memorial Award for Flexible Packaging Innovation, sponsored by Skjodt-Barrett Foods, annually honors a top innovator in flexible packaging. BNP Media will present the award at its 2025 Global Pouch Forum event during a special keynote session featuring leadership from Cheer Pack N.A. and Skjodt-Barrett Foods. The session will highlight Gosling's innovations in pouch packaging through the years, including his collaborations with Steve Fairfield, namesake of the award. Gosling and his innovative work will also serve as the basis for a special feature in the August 2025 issue of the Packaging Strategies eMagazine."We are deeply honored that BNP Media and Skjodt-Barrett Foods have selected Steve Gosling, Cheer Pack North America visionary, as the inaugural recipient of the Steve Fairfield Memorial Award for Flexible Packaging Innovation," said Jeff Ward, CEO, Cheer Pack N.A."We received several outstanding nominations for our first year of this wonderful new award. However, naming Steve Gosling the first recipient of this annual award was a natural, ideal choice, given his pioneering work alongside Steve Fairfield in broadly commercializing spouted pouch packaging," said Douglas J. Peckenpaugh, publisher and business leader of The Packaging Group at BNP Media."Steve Fairfield brought a unique mix of creativity and determination to the monumental task of convincing longstanding, glass-packing brand owners to make a change with the flexible pouch," said Dan Skjodt, founder, Skjodt-Barrett Foods. "His sincere and good-humored approach to everything he did was an irresistible combination for success, and our ability to push the boundaries of what was possible in food packaging. Steve's leadership at Skjodt-Barrett left a lasting impact-not just on the new products we are able to bring to market, but on the people he associated with every day." Steve Fairfield was a flexible packaging innovator who left an indelible mark on the baby food and fruit puree industries. His entrepreneurial and visionary contributions helped reshape the flexible pouch landscape. Steve's passion and innovation were instrumental in the early adoption of spouted, stand-up pouches by leading global brands in the industry. This packaging format is now ubiquitous within the baby food and fruit snack categories. Steve Fairfield passed away in May 2024, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire industry innovators for generations."At Cheer Pack North America, we believe Steve Fairfield's impact fundamentally reshaped the flexible pouch landscape," said Ward. "His collaboration with Steve Gosling, beginning in 2008, marked the inception of the flexible stand-up spouted pouch and cap industry in North America. Together, their pioneering efforts introduced a groundbreaking packaging format-one that revolutionized product delivery and helped build a packaging industry now valued at over $250 million in annual sales." Steve Fairfield had an unmatched passion for life and an extraordinary ability to bring joy to everyone around him, continued Ward. "What's even more remarkable is that through shared innovation and unwavering determination, the two Steves brought smiles and convenience to millions of consumers-a legacy that continues to grow. We extend our warmest congratulations to Steve Gosling on this well-deserved recognition. There could be no more fitting recipient-someone whom Steve Fairfield himself would have been proud to honor. Congratulations to both Steves for shaping an industry and enriching lives everywhere." To learn more and register for the 2025 Global Pouch Forum, visit GlobalPouchForum.com About Global Pouch ForumGlobal Pouch Forum, organized by The Packaging Group at BNP Media ( www.bnpmedia.com) , launched in 1997, with the foresight that the flexible pouch would become a dominant force in packaging. Now, after 28 years of expertise and innovation, Global Pouch Forum remains the go-to event to get the most up-to-date information from experts and to network with leaders and innovators who develop, supply, buy, or recommend flexible materials, including pouches, films, and machinery. This annual event is the gateway to current and emerging innovation in the flexible packaging market, including the ever-growing opportunities for using pouch packaging for food, beverage, personal care, beauty, household, healthcare, medical, and other consumer packaged goods (CPGs).About Skjodt-Barrett FoodsSince 1985, Skjodt-Barrett Foods has had the honor and privilege of partnering with North America's most-beloved food brands as a leading provider of custom ingredients and contract manufacturing. With industry-leading facilities in Lebanon, IN, and Brampton, Ontario, its custom ingredient and contract-manufacturing teams help create enriching food experiences that can inspire generations to come.About Cheer Pack North AmericaCheer Pack North America (N.A.) is a leading manufacturer of spouted flexible pouch and cap packaging in North America. The company, located in West Bridgewater, MA, is a fully integrated supplier of "Made in USA" standard and custom injection molded parts, flexible flat and spouted pouches, and strategic partner with leading spouted pouch filling equipment suppliers.For further information, contact: Douglas Peckenpaugh, Group Publisher, BNP Media847-770-5916 peckenpaughd@ bnpmedia.com SOURCE: BNP Media
PR-Inside.com: 2025-05-07 05:59:50

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 424 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

Jamil's experience building scalable platforms, combined with his clear focus on the developer journey, makes him the perfect leader to advance our vision for a product-led future and to drive the next era of growth.AUSTIN, TEXAS / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 / BrainGu, a leading innovator in dual-use software platforms for highly regulated industries, today announced the promotion of Jamil Jadallah to Vice President, Product. This milestone marks a major step forward in BrainGu'sstrategic journeyfrom consultancy to product-enabled organization (2020-2025), and sets the foundation for its 2025-2030 vision as a fully product-led company. Jamil Jadallah Jamil speaking about SmoothGlue at a conference.Since joining BrainGu, Jamil has demonstrated exceptional leadership in platform development and a deep empathy for the developer experience-two pillars critical to BrainGu's future. His focus on enabling builders through seamless platforms aligns directly with BrainGu's mission to simplify complexity and deliver tangible, high-quality, production outcomes at scale."Jamil's promotion is not only a recognition of his talent and impact, it's a signal of where we're headed," said John "Spence" Spencer-Taylor, CEO of BrainGu. "His experience in building scalable platforms, combined with his clear focus on the developer journey, makes him the perfect leader to drive our next era of growth. As we consolidate key platform capabilities into a single powerhouse offering under SmoothGlue, Jamil's leadership will ensure we can deliver exceptional experiences for our users and expand our impact in both commercial and defense innovation ecosystems." Jamil will oversee all aspects of BrainGu's product portfolio, with a special focus on the continued evolution ofSmoothGlue , the company's Kubernetes-based flagship DevSecOps platform - as it integrates multiple related capabilities into one cohesive and mission-ready solution.BrainGu's move reflects a broader trend within the technology sector: success isn't about consulting hours or customization alone, it's about delivering repeatable, scalable products that empower users to achieve more, faster, and with greater security."I'm honored to step into this role at such a pivotal moment for BrainGu, and at a time when secure, resilient software delivery has never been more critical," said Jadallah. "Our team has built an incredible foundation, and our mission is clear: to empower commercial and defense organizations with platforms that aren't just innovative, but repeatable, scalable, and built to meet the realities of modern operations. I'm excited to continue building alongside a team that knows how to turn complexity into clarity-and vision into velocity." For more information about BrainGu and SmoothGlue, visitbraingu.com Contact InformationTony MontemoranoDesign Directortony.montemorano@braingu.com (518) 222-7631SOURCE: BrainGu
PR-Inside.com: 2025-05-07 21:00:28

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 480 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

Bruce Jacobi to Pass Leadership to Terrie CampbellNEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 / Cogency Global today announced a leadership transition as Bruce Jacobi retires and passes on the role of Chief Executive Officer to Terrie Campbell, effective May 1, 2025. Terrie Campbell Cogency Global Announces CEO Transition from Bruce Jacobi to Terrie CampbellThe transition marks a natural evolution for Cogency Global, reflecting Bruce's and Terrie's shared commitment to the white-glove client service and responsiveness that have long defined the company. Under Terrie's leadership, Cogency Global will continue to deliver high-touch service while thoughtfully expanding its capabilities to meet the evolving needs of its clients.Terrie Campbell brings extensive executive leadership experience in legal services, technology and operations. She has served as CEO of Esquire Deposition Solutions, led the managed document services business for Ricoh USA and held key leadership roles focused on client-centric transformation and operational excellence. Throughout her career, Terrie has demonstrated an unwavering focus on building organizations where client experience is paramount. Her deep expertise in legal services and strategic leadership positions her to guide Cogency Global into its next chapter while maintaining the company's hallmark commitment to personalized service.Bruce Jacobi, who has served as CEO since 1997, has been instrumental in building Cogency Global's reputation for trusted expertise, promptness and enduring client relationships. His decision to transition leadership to Terrie reflects their mutual belief in the importance of protecting and enhancing the client experience as the company grows."This transition is about building on the strong foundation we have created-not changing what makes Cogency Global unique," said Bruce Jacobi. "Terrie's experience, leadership and client-first philosophy make her the ideal person to lead the company's future. I have full confidence that our clients will continue to receive the tailored service they expect." "I am honored to join Cogency Global and continue the extraordinary legacy Bruce and the team have built," said Terrie Campbell. "Throughout my career, I have believed that client experience and service excellence are the foundational pillars of lasting success. As Cogency grows, we will remain deeply committed to delivering responsive, bespoke service and ensuring that every client continues to feel prioritized and valued." About Cogency GlobalCogency Global, founded in 1980, is an international provider of registered agent services, as well as fast and efficient corporate transaction and compliance solutions for companies and their counsel. The company also keeps clients informed of changes to the law and filing procedures through frequent bulletins, email updates, and live informational webinars and seminars. Headquartered in New York City, with offices throughout the United States as well as in London, Hong Kong, and Singapore, Cogency Global is well-positioned to support legal and business professionals around the world. For more information, please visit www.cogencyglobal.com Contact InformationTigist KetemaSVP of Global Marketingtketema@ cogencyglobal.com 1-800-221-0102SOURCE: Cogency Global
PR-Inside.com: 2025-05-07 23:00:16

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 292 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

MORTON, ILLINOIS / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 / Illinois-based Creekmur Wealth Advisors, a registered investment adviser (RIA), proudly announced its inclusion in the top firms with $500 million or more in assets under management (AUM) on USA Today's prestigious list of the Best Financial Advisory Firms in the United States and ranked in the top 10 in the state of Illinois. Creekmur Wealth Advisors was also named the highest ranked firm outside of the Chicagoland area. This marks Creekmur's debut appearance on the celebrated list. Creekmur Wealth Advisors USA Today Ranking"We are thrilled and honored to be acknowledged by USA Today as one of the leading financial advisory firms in the nation," said John Creekmur, CEO of Creekmur Wealth Advisors.USA Today, in partnership with Statista, revealed its list of top firms on April 22. The comprehensive evaluation involved over 30,000 RIA firms, ranking them based on AUM growth both in the short and long term, validated by recommendations from financial advisors, clients, and industry professionals. Remarkably, Creekmur did not incur any fees for inclusion in the rankings.Creekmur Wealth Advisors specializes in providing comprehensive services including financial planning, investment management, tax planning, and retirement planning. For more information about Creekmur Wealth Advisors, visit Creekmurwealth.com Investment advisory services are offered through Creekmur Asset Management LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Neither rankings nor recognitions by unaffiliated rating services, publications, media, or other organizations, or any amount of prior experience or success, should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results by engagement with Creekmur Asset Management to provide investment advisory services. No fee was paid for consideration of this rankingContact InformationMakenzie PampinellaMarketing Specialistmakenzie@ creekmurwealth.com 309-925-2043SOURCE: Creekmur Wealth Advisors
PR-Inside.com: 2025-05-07 18:02:45

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 977 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

STAFFORD, VIRGINIA / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 / The Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure (ISI) has awarded the 95 Express Lanes Fredericksburg Extension (FredEx) an Envision Silver award for sustainable infrastructure."Congratulations to Transurban, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), Branch Civil-Flatiron and all those who contributed to the success of this project," said Anthony Kane, President & CEO of ISI. "FredEx emphasized local engagement and long-term sustainability, advancing the region's transportation network in ways that will benefit commuters and the broader community for many years to come." The ten-mile extension of the 95 Express Lanes is the first road project in Virginia to receive an award under the Envision Sustainability Framework. Managed by ISI, the rating system evaluates all types of public and private projects, setting the standard to help communities build sustainable and resilient infrastructure."Earning a Silver Envision rating for the Fredericksburg Extension is a prime example of what strong partnerships can bring to bear," said Beau Memory, President, Transurban North America. "I am so proud of our teams and their dedication to excellent construction and business practices, setting the standard for sustainable, reliable, and conscious transportation infrastructure." Transurban, in partnership with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and Branch Civil-Flatiron Joint Venture (BFJV), opened the project to traffic in August of 2023-making the 95/395 Express Lanes the longest reversible road in the United States."Lengthening 95 Express Lanes by another 10 miles has expanded traveler choice in the Fredericksburg area and promotes ridesharing and a more reliable trip for all users," said VDOT Commissioner Stephen C. Brich. "Delivering this project was possible through the Commonwealth's public-private partnership structure, which allowed VDOT and Transurban's teams to complete this complex megaproject and bring congestion relief to the I-95 corridor." By achieving a Silver Envision rating, FredEx was acknowledged for its efforts in minimizing construction impacts, utilizing recycled materials, enhancing community quality of life and stakeholder collaboration. The project integrates sustainable practices, including the use of sustainable materials and innovative construction techniques. This approach benefits surrounding communities by reducing environmental footprints, promoting local engagement, and ensuring long-term sustainability that creates transportation infrastructure built for today and tomorrow."This impressive Silver Envision rating achievement is a testament to our commitment to build resilient, sustainable and innovative infrastructure," said Chase Cox, Vice President and District Manager of FlatironDragados. "Milestones such as this are only possible through the teamwork, dedication and resilience shown by all employees, organizations and stakeholders involved in the delivery of the 95 Express Lanes project." "When we take on a project - no matter how large or small its scale - we promise to be good stewards to the communities it serves," said Yisehak Shata, Branch senior project manager. "We promise to manage our resources wisely, do our best to protect the natural world, address environmental concerns, and minimize construction impacts. The Silver Envision rating tells us that we're doing our part to address our community's most pressing concerns." FredEx has hosted more than 7 million trips since opening and has provided faster, more reliable trips in an area notorious for bad traffic. A commuter from Fredericksburg to Washington, D.C. can save on average about an hour a day on their round-trip on the Express Lanes. And the general-purpose lanes on I-95 have seen a benefit-trip times are about 20 minutes faster on average thanks to reduced congestion.About Transurban North AmericaTransurban is one of the world's largest toll-road operators and developers, working to get people where they want to go as quickly and safely as possible. In fiscal year 2024, our faster, more reliable roads saved customers an average of 446,000 hours each workday across five global markets. In Virginia, our public-private partnerships are transforming transportation choices using dynamic, real-time pricing on the 95, 395, and 495 Express Lanes. Over a decade of keeping Virginia travelers moving, we continue to work alongside our government partners to drive the technology, policy, and mobility solutions that are connecting and strengthening communities today and tomorrow.Project Background and ScopeI-95 was over capacity with recurring AM and PM peak period congestion, and continued growth in traffic demand along the corridor was projected. In addition, travel time reliability and travel choices needed to be improved by increasing the attractiveness of ridesharing and transit. The FredEx project was developed in conjunction with local and regional transportation plans with the objective of expanding mobility and access points and addressing long-term needs.The project includes ten miles of new two-lane reversible high-occupancy toll (HOT) lanes with full shoulders, a bridge structure at Potomac Creek, four flyover ramps, the replacement of two existing bridges over I-95, and three electronic toll collection systems. Since becoming operational in 2023, FredEx has hosted more than 7 million trips since opening and has provided faster, more reliable trips in an area notorious for bad traffic. A commuter from Fredericksburg to Washington, D.C. can save on average about an hour a day on their round-trip on the Express Lanes. And the general-purpose lanes on I-95 have seen a benefit-trip times are about 20 minutes faster on average thanks to reduced congestion.Verified Sustainability AchievementsQuality of life benefits and sustainable transportation planning - By restoring bridges and creating new connections between communities, the project provides more opportunities for people to access education, jobs, affordable housing, healthy food, and recreational activities. From an efficiency perspective FredEx adds roadway capacity and ensures free-flowing traffic, including through the toll pricing system that dynamically adjusts to maintain a minimum average operating speed. The project expands carpooling options throughout the region and providers commuters with faster, more reliable travel times.Construction impacts - The project team approached potential construction impacts proactively, consulting with affected communities. For example, the project examined a range of strategies that would maintain or reduce overall noise and vibration levels and incorporated several into the design%
PR-Inside.com: 2025-05-07 15:30:33

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 591 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

Emerald Coast Open - the largest lionfish tournament in the world - encourages restaurants and their customers to discover the joy of eating lionfishTAMPA, FLORIDA / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 / Live Wildly has joined theEmerald Coast Open Lionfish Tournamentas a sponsor to help stop dangerous invasive lionfish from destroying Florida's native marine life and habitat. The tournament takes place in Destin, FL, May 16-17. Photo Credit: G.P. Schmal NOAA Photo Credit: G.P. Schmal NOAA"Florida's unique marine areas are not just beautiful, they also are the backbone of our tourism, commercial fishing, and outdoor recreation economies," said Lisa Shipley, CEO of Live Wildly. "Lionfish are an invasive species that pose a real threat to Florida's natural systems, native wildlife, and nature-based economy." The Emerald Coast Open brings together teams of fishers who compete to catch the most lionfish. Live Wildly is sponsoring a team organized byOcean Strike Team , a group that supports ocean conservation, citizen science, and research through ecotourism experiences and actions.Winners of the tournament receive cash prizes for the most, the biggest, and the smallest lionfish caught.Live Wildly is also sponsoringAJ's Seafood and Oyster Barwhich is participating in the Emerald Coast Open's Restaurant Week which runs May 9-17. Live Wildly is proud to be the first-ever sponsor of Restaurant Week, during which local eateries feature lionfish dishes on their menus, educating customers about the invasive species and encouraging other restaurants to serve lionfish year-round.Lionfish - which can be fried, baked, broiled, steamed, poached, or even eaten raw in sushi - are firm, tender, and flakey with a mild taste similar to snapper, black sea bass, and hogfish.But while lionfish may be delicious to eat, they are malicious when it comes to the threats they pose to Florida's marine systems and native fish populations.Originally from the South Pacific and Indian Oceans, lionfish were first spotted in Florida's waters in the 1980s, believed to have been released by home aquarium owners who originally kept them as pets. Because lionfish have no natural predators in Atlantic waters, and because a single lionfish can produce up to 2 million eggs a year, lionfish have quickly spread from Florida's coasts all the way up to New York posing severe environmental threats up and down the East Coast.Lionfish can grow to more than 18 inches long and have long venomous spines. They are voracious hunters, eating nearly any living creature that can fit into their mouths, including juveniles of many commercially important fish such as grouper, seabass, and snapper. Lionfish also threaten Florida's extensive reef habitats by preying on algae-eating species that help keep corals clean and healthy. And lionfish compete for food with native fish species, further harming their populations.Commercial and recreational harvesting of lionfish are some of the most effective ways of controlling its spread and environmental damage. TheFlorida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commissionhosts seminars and workshops throughout the year to train people how to catch lionfish and to educate the public about the dangers of invasive species."Getting outdoors to catch lionfish is a great way to enjoy wild Florida while also keeping it healthy," Shipley said. "Restaurants that serve lionfish are not just providing great food to their customers, they're also helping keep Florida's marine systems strong and productive for residents, tourists, and local economies." Contact InformationPress Contactpressrelease@ livewildly.com SOURCE: Live Wildly FoundationRelated ImagesPhoto Credit: Destin Vacation Boat Rentals Photo Credit: Destin Vacation Boat Rentals Photo Credit: Christian Mehlfuhrer Photo Credit: Christian Mehlfuhrer
PR-Inside.com: 2025-05-07 21:00:45

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 895 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 / In the wake of the devastating Eaton and Palisades wildfires, the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce (the Chamber) today announced the launch of its Small Business Recovery Fund, a bold initiative to support small businesses impacted by the recent disasters. This fund marks a critical step in the region's recovery efforts and underscores the Chamber's role as the voice of business in Los Angeles and the engine of community renewal."Los Angeles is resilient," said Maria S. Salinas, President and CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce. "In the face of devastation, we do not retreat-we rebuild. The Chamber is proud to lead this effort, uniting the public and private sectors to channel funding, technical expertise, and partnerships into not just restoring what was lost, but shaping what's next." The Chamber's Small Business Recovery Fund will provide vital financial relief and technical support to small business owners as they work to reopen, rehire, and reinvest in their communities. The Chamber is mobilizing an unprecedented coalition of partners-from civic leaders to major corporations-to ensure resources are deployed efficiently and equitably across the most affected neighborhoods. The fund has received generous initial donations from Bank of America, Chevron, and other major companies who recognize the important role small businesses play in Los Angeles's economy.The economic toll of the Eaton and Palisades wildfires on Los Angeles County's small business community is staggering. In total, according to a recent study by the Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation (LAECD), 1,863 businesses were located within the fire perimeters-60% in the vicinity of the Palisades Fire and 40% near the Eaton Fire-employing an estimated 9,610 workers and generating $1.4 billion in annual sales. A Pepperdine School of Public Policy and Beacon Economics report found that the Palisades Fire alone impacted 1,407 businesses supporting nearly 13,000 jobs. Projections noted in the LAECD report estimate that the combined disruption from both fires will result in $4.6 billion to $8.9 billion in lost economic output over the next five years, along with up to $3.7 billion in labor income reductions-an economic shock that demands bold, coordinated recovery action.From emergency capital to long-term resilience strategies, the initiative embodies the Chamber's commitment to action at a moment when local businesses need it most. By stepping forward now, the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce is once again demonstrating its capacity to lead during times of crisis and to lay the groundwork for a stronger economic future.Grant awards are available in amounts of $10,000, $15,000 and $25,000 - depending on applicants' gross annual income. Eligible businesses must be located in the affected areas and serve a clientele with more than 50% of customers located in impacted areas. The Chamber has partnered with Lendistry, a Los Angeles-based small business lender, to administer grants and provide capital solutions for recovery loans."Lendistry is proud to work with the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation to help our hometown recover from the devastating wildfires," said Everett K. Sands, CEO of Lendistry. "L.A.'s small businesses are the heart of the city, and we're inspired by their resilience and dedication. We're committed to helping the Chamber Foundation provide impacted businesses with the relief they need to continue serving their communities." "From the start, our priority was to design a recovery fund that delivers real, lasting impact-not just short-term relief," said Maria S. Salinas, President and CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce. "We carefully considered how to get funding to the small businesses that need it most, while also laying the groundwork for long-term recovery and resilience. The Chamber is proud to partner with Lendistry to help these businesses rebuild-and we're committed to standing with them every step of the way." The grant application opened today and will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. The application window is currently scheduled to remain open through June 6, 2025, subject to available funds.To apply for a Small Business Recovery Fund grant or to contribute, visit LAChamberRecoveryFund.com About Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce FoundationThe Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation was established in 1970 to carry out the charitable objectives of the L.A. Area Chamber. As the voice of business in region for more than 137 years, the Chamber's mission is to design and advance opportunities and solutions for a thriving regional economy that is inclusive and globally competitive. The Chamber Foundation focuses on furthering those efforts by building partnerships that improve the welfare for the citizens of Southern California.About LendistryLendistry ( lendistry.com) is a tech-enabled small businesses lender, grant administrator for private and public agencies, and a trusted resource for undercapitalized entrepreneurs including people of color, veterans, and those in rural communities. Founded in 2015, Lendistry has used technology and community partnerships to deploy over $10 billion in its first ten years. Lendistry was recently honored with the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce Corporate Leadership Award and BankRate's Best Minority-Led Business Lender. Lendistry has both Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and Community Development Entity (CDE) certifications, is an SBA Preferred Lender and is now the #2 non-bank SBA 7(a) lender in the country. In collaboration with The Center by Lendistry, a nonprofit business education organization, Lendistry helps business owners achieve their goals and prepare to scale.Contact InformationKate KearnsSr. Communications Managercommunications@ lendistry.com SOURCE: Lendistry
PR-Inside.com: 2025-05-07 01:15:13

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 563 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

Celebrated Personal Injury Attorney Recognized as Leader in LawCHARLOTTE, NC / ACCESS Newswire / May 6, 2025 /Few names resonate more strongly in the Carolinas than Michael DeMayo, a trusted advocate Charlotte residents turn to for justice in personal injury and consumer rights cases.As founder and managing attorney of DeMayo Law Offices, Michael A. DeMayo was named a 2023 Leader in Law by North Carolina Lawyers Weekly, spotlighting his decades-long dedication to justice and community impact.Fighting for Justice, One Case at a TimeOver the past 30 years, DeMayo Law Offices has handled more than 100,000 cases and recovered over $1 billion in verdicts and settlements. Michael DeMayo's legal team is recognized for its aggressive advocacy in auto accidents, workers' compensation, medical malpractice, and wrongful death cases.DeMayois known for winning tough cases and empowering injury victims through education and compassionate legal guidance. His client-first philosophy and relentless pursuit of fairness have made his firm one of the most respected in Charlotte, North Carolina.Investing in Tomorrow: The Arrive Alive ScholarshipBeyond the courtroom, DeMayo's impact is deeply felt through his Arrive Alive Scholarship Program, which has awarded over $750,000 to graduating high school seniors across the Carolinas. The initiative promotes safe driving practices and supports youth pursuing higher education.This year, 20 students earned scholarships, including Robeson County's Merlo Oxendine, recognized for her commitment to responsible driving and academic excellence."It's about more than just writing a check," DeMayo says. "We're investing in safer roads and stronger futures." Community Outreach and EducationMichael DeMayo's community efforts extend well beyond scholarships. He sponsors public safety campaigns, promotes legal literacy, and frequently collaborates with schools and nonprofits to advance youth development, accident prevention, and consumer awareness.His firm also offers free resources to injury victims to help them navigate the legal system and understand their rights.About Michael DeMayoMichael A. DeMayo Charlotteresident, is the founder and CEO of DeMayo Law Offices, with headquarters in Charlotte and multiple locations across the Carolinas. He graduated from the University of North Carolina and the Campbell University School of Law. Recognized as a thought leader in personal injury law, DeMayo combines strategic litigation with a heart for service.He has been repeatedly honored for his legal excellence, civic leadership, and philanthropic efforts, making "Michael DeMayo Charlotte Attorney" synonymous with advocacy, justice, and community uplift.About DeMayo Law Offices, Charlotte, NCFounded in 1992, DeMayo Law Offices has become one of the Carolinas's most respected personal injury law firms. With headquarters in Charlotte and multiple offices across North and South Carolina, the firm focuses exclusively on representing injured individuals, never insurance companies or large corporations.DeMayo Law Offices is known for its aggressive legal strategy, cutting-edge technology, and a compassionate approach to client care. The firm handles a wide range of personal injury cases, including auto accidents, workers' compensation, nursing home neglect, and wrongful death. Over the past three decades, the team has recovered more than $1 billion in settlements and verdicts on behalf of its clients.A deep commitment to justice, transparency, and results supports every case. From free consultations to thorough trial preparation, DeMayo Law Offices delivers personalized legal service with a reputation built on integrity, experience, and success.Learn MoreFor legal support or information on scholarships and outreach programs, visit https://michaeldemayo.com/ Asap Digital MarketingNew Bern, North Carolina https://asapdigitalmarketing.org/+12523077167 contact@ asapdigitalmarketing.org SOURCE: Asap Digital Marketing
PR-Inside.com: 2025-05-07 17:10:57

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 778 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

OAKBROOK TERRACE, IL / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 /NAV Fund Services, a leading provider of fund administration services to alternative asset fund managers, has reached a key Assets Under Administration (AUA) growth milestone for digital assets funds, with $45+ billion in assets under administration. Partnering with 1,000+ global digital assets funds, NAV ranks as the industry's largest digital asset fund administrator across several metrics."Our expertise and proprietary purpose-built technology have established us as the leader in the digital asset administration space since its earliest days," said NAV Senior Vice President Rajat Jain. "NAV's digital asset services combine 30+ years of industry reputation, stable growth, institutional appeal, and knowledgeable premium client services with the experience of a day one innovator in digital asset administration. We're excited to continue to build on that history and our team is committed to lead industry efforts to innovate and support the future growth and confidence in this dynamic market segment." NAV has grown steadily and organically, with no mergers or acquisitions. "We've consistently provided our clients with superior fund administration services while investing in and expanding nearly every facet of our operations - adding to staff, creating major product innovations, establishing new global locations and operational jurisdictions, and developing new service types," Jain said."With an outstanding 99% client retention rate and 40% of our business consisting of takeovers from other administrators, we're proud that our clients continue to value our partnership and recommend us to their colleagues," Jain said. "Our clients know they can count on as a responsive and reliable trusted partner, even during periods of market change and volatility." Pioneering and Perfecting Digital Asset Fund AdministrationNAV offers a range of cost-effective benefits to digital asset fund managers, including detailed reporting to track each digital asset individually, wallet by wallet or account by account, and reliably prompt delivery timelines:Daily reporting is typically delivered by 6:30 AM ET of the next business day; portfolio valuation reporting for digital asset funds is the fastest in the industry with ~80% delivered within 5 days after period-endDetailed daily trade and position reconciliationTax lot reporting with cost basis and income categorization across digital asset activities, including staking, farming, mining, and rewards to support year-end tax and audit activitiesDetailed position and P&L by exchangeSegregated reporting for side pockets and illiquid investments"NAV invests heavily in top talent and technology, and we're committed to ongoing development of new functionality and features to provide an optimal client experience," said NAV Chief Strategic Solutions Officer Ravi Gupta. "Features like fully automated DeFi solutions, and the Crypto Vault and Crypto Live dashboard, were designed specifically to help digital asset fund managers streamline their operations, reduce costs, and easily scale as the funds grow. Additional innovative technology like E-Subscription and Data Room also help simplify investor onboarding and enhance fund marketing programs." NAV currently offers 150+ exchange integrations and 200+ blockchain connections and fund administration solutions for all digital asset strategies including long only, market neutral, quant, high frequency, yield generation, NFTs, and SAFT/SAFE, and tokenized Real World Asset (RWA) funds. "We partner with the world's largest tokenized funds, offering tailored digital transfer agent services, flexible workflow and API integrations, and comprehensive tracking and reporting," Gupta said.For more information about NAV Fund Services digital assets solutions, visit: https://www.navfundservices.com/fund-strategies/digital-assets A History of Growth and InnovationSince its founding in 1991, NAV has grown to provide services to 7,000+ funds across all alternative fund strategies and sizes worldwide with $350 billion total AUA. The NAV team of 3,400+ professionals offer highly qualified support in fund administration, compliance, security, IT, accounting, and tax disciplines. NAV's proprietary systems capably process all fund structures and millions of trades daily, scaling across high volumes and complex strategies.NAV is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA) and its operations are ISO 27001, ISO 27701, ISAE 3402 Type II and SOC2 certified. The company is headquartered in the United States, with eight facilities in India and locations in Australia, the Cayman Islands, Ireland, Mauritius, Philippines, and Singapore; plus, the ability to service clients domiciled in multiple additional countries around the globe.NAV has consistently been recognized with industry awards for global achievement in fund administration services, including most recently as Best Digital Assets Provider in the With Intelligence HFM US Services Awards, consecutive wins as Administrator of the Year - Overall in the Hedgeweek Global Digital Assets Awards, and the Technology Innovation Award from the With Intelligence Fund Intelligence Operations & Services Awards.Media Contact InformationVicki Hunckler vicki.hunckler@navconsulting.nethttps://www.navfundservices.com/ SOURCE: NAV Fund Services
PR-Inside.com: 2025-05-07 23:19:19

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 490 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 /WHY: New York, N.Y., May 7, 2025. Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, continues to investigate potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of Eldorado Gold Corporation (NYSE:EGO) resulting from allegations that Eldorado Gold may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public.SO WHAT: If you purchased Eldorado Gold securities you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. The Rosen Law Firm is preparing a class action seeking recovery of investor losses.WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the prospective class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=37849 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@ rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.WHAT IS THIS ABOUT: On February 5, 2025, Eldorado Gold issued a press release in which it provided an update on the construction progress on its Skouries Project. In pertinent part, this announcement stated that "[a]s previously disclosed, 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." Further, Eldorado announced that "first production at Skouries is now expected in the first quarter of 2026, followed by commercial production expected in mid-2026." On this news, Eldorado Gold's stock fell 11.2% on February 6, 2025.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. 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.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/ 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: The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
PR-Inside.com: 2025-05-07 22:45:10

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 493 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

Tickeri has redefined the live event experience in the Latin market, and by partnering with major companies like PayPal, continues to solidify its status as a groundbreaking tech platform.LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA / ACCESS Newswire / May 7, 2025 / Tickeri has established itself as one of the leading ticket platforms for Latin events in the United States and one of the industry's most technologically innovative ticket platforms, thanks in large part to its partnerships with other companies that can complement its goals and mission. Most notably, Tickeri's ongoing alliance with tech giant PayPal has propelled the company to new heights, improving customer experience and paving the way for further innovation. TickeriSince its inception in 2011, Tickeri has been focused on creating a seamless method for Latinos to discover and attend concerts, festivals, and cultural events celebrating their heritage. As the company has expanded into new markets, it has persisted in building trust with its primary customer base.PayPal has long been a popular online payment method among Latinos, and its alliance with Tickeri has been a natural fit from the beginning. PayPal has become essential to Tickeri's explosive growth and helped the company dominate the Latin live events market.With the integration of PayPal and its many scalable, customer-focused solutions, Tickeri has been able to achieve groundbreaking results for the Latino live events community, offering a seamless, mobile-first payment process that not only ensures accessibility for its diverse audience, but also an efficient system for processing a high volume of last minute purchases (data shows that Latino audiences often purchase tickets closer to event dates, with 80% of sales occurring in the final 24-48 hours).After introducing PayPal Checkout, its usage took over 8% of Tickeri's total transactions. In comparison, Chargeback Protection enabled Tickeri to reduce fraud by 53% and disputes by 27.5%, permitting the company's team to focus on its ultimate goal of business growth while empowering event organizers and strengthening the Latino concert scene.Tickeri first integrated PayPal Braintree over a decade ago, allowing the company to streamline payments and improve operational efficiencies, and remaining focused on helping Latino first-generation and immigrant-owned event businesses achieve growth as the years have passed, the company continues to integrate a variety of PayPal solutions as they are developed, including those that form part of PayPal Open. This unified commerce platform helps fuel and support Tickeri's evolving needs. After noticing the need to provide customers with flexible payment solutions, Tickeri also integrated options such as PayPal Pay Later, which has helped it better serve consumers and business partners while improving back-end operations.PayPal has played a crucial role in the unparalleled customer experience that Tickeri provides. This powerful alliance has expanded access to live events for an economically diverse Latino audience. From now on, it will allow Tickeri to bridge the gap between more Latino communities and the most impactful music and cultural events, and bring the platform to more Latino communities worldwide.Contact Information Elena RodrigoP.R & Marketingerodrigo@ themusicjointgroup.com 8186932715SOURCE: Tickeri
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has reported that the helicopter crash, which resulted in the death of the former Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, Herbert Wigwe, along with his wife, son, and other crew members over a year ago, was probably caused by pilot disorientation and deficiencies in safety protocols by the operating company.

On 9 February 2024, an Airbus helicopter with registration number EC 130B4, crashed near Halloran Springs, California. The two pilots and four passengers, which included Mr Wigwe, his wife Doreen, their first son, Chizi; and the former group chairman of Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group), Abimbola Ogunbanjo, were killed in the ill-fated aircraft.

The helicopter was operated by Orbic Air, LLC, as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 135 on-demand flight.

The NTSB, in its final aviation investigation report published on Tuesday, said the probable cause of the crash was the pilots decision to continue the flight under visual flight rules into instrument meteorological conditions (IMC).

We determined the probable cause(s) of this accident to be: the pilots decision to continue the visual flight rules flight into instrument meteorological conditions, which resulted in the pilots spatial disorientation and loss of control, the investigators said.

According to the 31-page report reviewed by this publication, the NTSB explained that contributing to the accident was the companys inadequate oversight of its safety management processes, including ensuring the pilots were accurately completing and updating the flight risk analysis, logging maintenance discrepancies, and ensuring the helicopter met Part 135 regulations before departure.

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 NTSB is an independent agency charged by the US Congress to investigate every civil aviation accident and significant accidents in other modes of transportation across the United States of America.

More findings

According to the NTSB, in the days preceding the helicopter accident last year, the helicopter had been undergoing routine maintenance that involved work on the radar altimeter, which was a required instrument for Part 135 flight operations.

About 1727 on the day of the accident, the accident pilot and a company mechanic/pilot repositioned the helicopter from the maintenance facility to the companys flight operations base, and during the flight, the accident pilot noted the radar altimeter was not functioning, the report noted.

It said during the return flight, the pilot texted the director of maintenance (DOM) about the issue, and after arriving at the companys flight operations base, the pilot discussed the issue with the company flight follower (who was also the companys president).

According to the flight follower, who also held operational control of the charter flight, during the discussions he told the pilot that the flight could not depart if the radar altimeter was not functioning, the investigators report partly read.

A company mechanic performed some troubleshooting on the radar altimeter; however, he was unable to rectify the issue, and the radar altimeter remained non-functional.

The mechanic reported that the pilots and the DOM were aware that the radar altimeter was not functioning, yet they departed at 1822 on the positioning flight to pick up the passengers, the NTSB found.

About 2 minutes before the accident, the NTSB explained that the helicopters airspeed and altitude increased, with a slight deviation to the south of the freeway.

It is unclear if the pilot was attempting an inadvertent instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) recovery maneuver. The helicopter continued the right turn for about 10 seconds when the helicopter began a rapid descent into terrain while maintaining the right turn, the report noted.

It said witnesses, who were traveling in their vehicles, reported observing a fireball to the south of the freeway, and that the witnesses reported that the weather conditions in the area were not good as it was raining with a snow mix.

Wreckage

The investigators report also revealed that search and rescue efforts were difficult due to weather conditions that included low visibility, rain, snow, and high winds.

The helicopter wreckage, which was highly fragmented and not survivable, was located about 1 hour and 40 minutes after the accident, the report said.

It said postaccident examination of the airframe, engine, rotor blades, flight controls, rotor drive, main rotor, and fenestron components identified no evidence of pre-impact malfunction or failure that would have precluded normal operation.

The engine displayed rotational damage signatures and resolidified metal deposits consistent with powered operation at impact, the report said, stating that all recovered instruments, avionics, and portable/personal electronic devices sustained damage that prevented data extraction.

The NTSB emphasised that the helicopter wreckage was consistent with a high-energy, right-side-low attitude impact with terrain.

While emphasising that the two pilots, identified as both male aged 25 and 22 with commercial flight instructor certification, were properly trained, the NTSB stressed that the pilot may have been susceptible to the Coriolis illusion when maintaining a constant turn if he moved his head, for example, to look from inside the cockpit to outside the cockpit.

In addition, the report said the helicopter also began to accelerate as it descended, which could have resulted in a somatogravic (false climb) illusion that led the pilot to believe the helicopter was climbing.

The pilot likely experienced spatial disorientation while maneuvering the helicopter in IMC, which led to his loss of helicopter control and the resulting collision with terrain, the report said.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


Nigerian actress and film producer Iyabo Ojo has revealed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recently called her in for questioning regarding the alleged abuse of the Naira at the society wedding of her daughter, Priscilla.

The actress stated that the clarification became necessary because she had received numerous calls and texts from various sources to ascertain her welfare.

Recall that the EFCC, on Monday, arrested a social media content creator, Muhammed Saad, in Kaduna for allegedly abusing naira notes.

In addition, social media activist Very Dark Man is presently in the custody of the law enforcement body on charges of alleged financial crimes, details of which it is yet to be revealed.

Section 21 of the CBN Act, 2007 states that all acts that constitute Naira abuse are punishable by imprisonment for not less than six months or a fine not less than N50,000 or both.

The act further defines the abuse of the Naira as spraying, dancing or stepping on it, selling or trading Naira notes or coins for a higher value, and mutilation, defacement, and soiling of the Naira.

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

Invitation

According to Iyabo, she recently had an experience with the EFCC in Nigeria after receiving an invitation letter while in the UK.

Upon my return, I visited the EFCC on the 5th day of May 2025. I was asked several questions about my bio-data, career, work experience, and companies.

The EFCC officials showed me videos extracted from my daughters wedding where guests, including colleagues and friends, were spraying Naira and foreign currencies.

I was asked if I knew this was illegal, and I explained that I thought only abuse or mutilation of the Naira was an offence, she wrote.

She further revealed that the EFCC officials clarified that spraying money, including on peoples bodies, is prohibited.

I was surprised to learn that spraying any currency, including Dollars, is also prohibited.

After questioning, I was allowed to leave the same day, but my lawyer, O.I. Salami, stood in for me as I may be called upon again, she added.

Iyabo, whose film Labake Olododo is currently showing in cinemas, also advised Nigerians against spraying any currency to avoid issues with the EFCC.

Previous arrests convictions

The EFCC has a history of arresting, detaining, and even convicting Nigerian entertainers.

In April, the body arrested Emeka Okonkwo Daniel ( a.k.a E-money) for allegedly spraying American dollars against the Foreign Exchange Act.

In 2023, actress Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin was sentenced to six months imprisonment but with an option of an N300,000 fine on charges of spraying and stepping on new Naira notes at a friends wedding brought against her by the crime-fighting body.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


Veteran Nollywood actor and comedian Okechukwu Anthony, Okey Bakassi, has revealed why he accepted the position of traditional ruler of the Umuihuocha Autonomous Community in Imo State.

PREMIUM TIMES reported his appointment on 28 April, 2025.

He is assuming the title of His Royal Highness Eze Okechukwu Onyegbule, the Okwe II of Umuihuocha Obohia Autonomous Community.

On Monday, at a special presentation ceremony commemorating the commencement of his reign as the king of Umuihuocha, the comedian-turned-traditional ruler spoke about his new role.

He said: We pride ourselves as a community that resolves disputes, the anger of a brother does not get to the bone.

If you look here, you will see that I came with my brother who went through the challenge to see the community and support, this is how Umuihuocha used to do things.

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

Reeling his promises to the people of Umuihuocha, Okey Bakakasi assured them there will be peace in his reign as the king of Umuihuocha. He said, Umuihuocha are peaceful people, I wont bring anything that will cause problems or calamity in this place (Umuihuocha). The promise I give to the people of Umuihuocha.

In the community statement to affirm his kingship, it was revealed that Okey Bakkasi enjoyed the overwhelming support of all the segments of the Umuihuocha people from the five villages and the titled men and women.

We pledge our loyalty and support to him, at all times, as his mandate is that of the entire Umuihuocha by our constitution, the statement read.

Other celebrities holding traditional titles in Nigeria

Okey Bakkasi is now officially on the list of Nigerian celebrities holding traditional titles and chieftaincy.

Other celebrities holding traditional titles include, but are not limited to, Tuface Idibia, Tafidan Kudendan of Kudendan Chiefdom, Genevieve Nnaji with the title of Eze Ada 1 of Amuzu Nweafor in Mbaise, Imo state, Oge Okoye, Igolo Nwanyi 1 of Amoli kingdom in Enugu State and Ini Edo, who was conferred alongside Patience Ozokwor with the title of Ada Eji Eje Mba 1 of Ngwo from the people of her town in Enugu State.

Similarly, DBanj holds a traditional title as Enyi Ka Nwanee Amuzi in Amuzi Obowoland of Imo State.

This list also extends to veteran actor and lawyer Kanayo O. Kanayo, who was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Ihe Mbaise Ji Ka Mba in his hometown of Mbaise, Imo state, and Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo, who also won the traditional title Ikuku of Amumara town, Mbaise, Imo state.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


Popular activist Martin VeryDarkMan (VDM), Otse, has regained his freedom after spending six days in the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) custody.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that VDMs lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, confirmed his client was arrested by the anti-graft agency last Friday.

Former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) and fellow activist Omoyele Sowore announced VDMs release on Wednesday evening via his X (formerly Twitter) page.

He wrote, Thanks to the unrelenting efforts of all, Verydarkman has been released from unjust detention at the EFCC! He is with his ebullient lawyer, Adeyanju Deji.

Thanks to unrelenting efforts of all @thatverydarkman has been released from unjust detention at the @officialEFCC ! He is with his ebullient lawyer, @adeyanjudeji. #RevolutionNow  Omoyele Sowore (@YeleSowore) May 7, 2025

Furthermore, in a viral video obtained by this newspaper and posted by supporters of VDM, the activist was seen inside a car alongside his lawyer.

In the video, he was heard conversing with Mr Adeyanju, revealing that he was arrested on allegations of money laundering.

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 questioned the credibility of the accusation, stating that someone in his financial position could hardly be involved in such an offence.

He said, How can the EFCC accuse someone who isnt wealthy of money laundering? Ive done a lot of charity work, and theyre wondering where I get the money from, not knowing Im running it on debt.

Anyway, Im out here with my lawyerand you know what I stand for. I can never be locked up as long as my lawyer is by my side.

Release on bail

However, Mr Adeyanju confirmed on his social media pages that VDM was released on bail.

He wrote, VDM released to us on bail. Special thanks to Deji Adeyanju and Partners, especially the head of our firm, Marvin Omorogbe. Thank you, Nigerians, for speaking up for him. Thank you, Egbon Sowore.

Thank you, Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, Davido, opposition lawmakers, etc. I must also thank the chairman of EFCC for indulging and listening to all my concerns since Friday last week and his team. The struggle continues.

The release of VDM followed condemnation of his arrest and detention by several prominent figures and celebrities, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, Davido, and others.

They described the arrest and detention as unlawful and a violation of human rights and called for his immediate release.

In addition, some of his supporters took to the streets in Abuja and some states to demand his release.

The protests began on Monday and continued until the moment of his release.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


My mind wandered for clarity as I wobbled across the University of Ilorins (UNILORIN) Mass Communication Departmental corridor that hot afternoon. Ambition collided with confusion, and fantasy gave way to epiphany. I had always wanted to practice journalism and had imagined that I knew what I wanteduntil that moment.

You must define what you want to do and be sure it isnt Churnalism, Professor Lambe Kayode Mustapha said, head bent skywards. I was in his office and our conversations shifted in the direction of my post-varsity planhow I could harness the fire of journalism that burnt within me for societal good. After-school challenges loomed, and uncertainties clouded my mind. Before then, I had studied journalism for over a decade, practised on and off three campuses, freelanced for some fringe publications, garnered certificates and a few accolades, and felt my career path was neatly defined.

Churnalism wont take you anywhere; only consequential journalism will Professor Mustapha, whom we UNILORIN students affectionately called Dr. Musty at the time- added, deadpan. He flipped through the pages of a particular text- (Noam) Chomskys, I think- adjusted his chair, and looked towards me. It was as though the non-verbal cue was necessary for the message to sink in, for maximum effect. But what exactly is Churnalism and why did he consider it essential for his (mass communication) students to be clear about the direction of their craft quite early?

BBC journalist Waseem Zakir is widely credited with coining the term Churnalism, which essentially translates to regurgitating press releases and syndicated reports against painstaking investigations and original research. Tony Harcup, journalism scholar and Emeritus Fellow of the University of Sheffield, referenced that in his 2004 book, Journalism: Principles and Practice.

The idea has its root in two words: a portmanteau of churn and journalism, the churning out of content from press releases and PR agencies.

Its affecting every newsroom in the country, and reporters are becoming churnalists, Zakir said of the craft. You get copy coming in on the wires and reporters churn it out, processing stuff and maybe adding the odd local quote

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

But Zakirs observation wasnt peculiar to the British press anyway, and years later, Churnalism would take the centre stage in global journalism discourse. In retrospect, as I would realise, Professor Mustaphas fear had its root in that ongoing conversation and how the local journalism ecosystem in Nigeria mirrored its devastating effects.

So in Ilorin, even as the sun baked the skin with fiendish delight, what separated us that hot afternoon was the gulf between the insight of experience on the one hand, and the innocence of the formative years on the other hand.

Our formative years are always a blur, often defined by imperfections: misdirected energies, idealism fueled by sheer naivety, error-prone judgements, and foggy visions. In some cases, the intervention of the guardian, that teacher, whose haunting voice and illuminating presence provide clarity in moments of naivety, influences the ultimate trajectory of our lives.

I am blessed with too many of such teachers and on this page, I have written about some of them: Alhaji Liad Tella, who showed me how far I could fly on the wings of sentences; Professor Saudat Salah Abdulbaqi, who fired my imagination midway between the delicate borders of motherly love and unbent principles; Professor Mahfouz Adedimeji, that model of a teacher without borders who exemplified excellence with dexterity of influence and character; and Professor Lukmon Adesina Azeez, the disciplinarian in whose world of rigour-as-only-pathway-to-excellence our hands burnt like gold in a furnace. These are some of the best brains in UNILORIN.

There are others: Drs. P. Udende, Rasaq Adisa, Oba Abdulkadir Laaro, Omotoso, Abubakre, Arikewuyo, among others.

I have written, also, about those who came before them and sharpened my mind in the belly of hills in Eruwa: Messrs Yinka Agoro, Rotimi Bolarinwa, the late Kunle Gbolagunte, Gbade Akinteye, Abiola Jesulowo, Patrick Akolade, Wunmi Olajide, Ismail Adediran, Solomon Adedokun, among others. I remember, also, those who came after them in UNILAG: Ass. Prof. Suraj Adekunle Olunifesi; Professors Ismail Adegboyega Ibrahim and Adepoju Tejumaiye; Dr Tayo Popoola, among others.

Professor L.K Mustapha stands tall among this tribe of lecturers no, teachersguardian angels whose words haunted like shadows. For one, our relationship transcended the walls of the classroom; with him, there were no boundaries and barriers. He was the quintessential teacher as a guardian who cared not just about students academic performance, but about their survival struggles. He was an eternal source of inspiration. In effect, very few people believed in my abilities as he did. His words of encouragement were the elixir I needed to soldier on, especially in the first few months after I graduated from UNILORIN.

Like most of my lecturers at UNILORIN, Professor Mustapha was an all-rounder who flowed effortlessly across the entire gamut of mass communication, from print to broadcast and PR/Advertising. His dexterity shone, and I enjoyed him more in our finals, when he delved into media effect theories and international communication courses in which his versatility and panoramic views shaped our thoughts on global affairs and erased quite a few misconceptions about media effects.

Earlier in the year, the governing council of the UNILORIN approved the promotion of both Drs Mustapha and Kehinde K. Kadiri to the rank of professor. The two scholars were promoted alongside 18 other lecturers.

Unlike Professor Mustapha, Professor Kadiri never took me in any course in my years in Ilorin. But her dexterity of influence could be felt more deeply in her practical sessions (that campus-wide, groundbreaking Photography and Photojournalism experiment, for instance) and other humanitarian interventions.

READ ALSO: Nigerian university speaks on alleged extortion of new students

Through the Grassroots Aid Initiative (TGAI), a non-profit organisation dedicated to improving the lives of people in rural communities across Nigeria, she hasnt only impacted the lives of many people in rural areas across Nigeria, she has been able to teach students the noble essence of volunteerism and community interventions-offering new insights into ways of carrying out that tripartite function of teaching, research and community service. As a development communications enthusiast and journalist, nothing excites me more about her work than the passion she pours into those interventions and the sheer number of people she has impacted through her efforts. It becomes more fascinating when you realise how shes been able to drive the project not just as a communal outreach, but as learning and teaching platforms for some of her volunteer-studentsthereby bridging that gap between the town and gown!

Teachers are people who start things they never see finished, and for which they never get thanks until it is too late, wrote Max Forman, whose words have haunted me since my formative years, firing that determination to always, always celebrate my teachersboth in the class and news roomsas I move along in this journey called life.

Today, I celebrate Professors Mustapha and Kadiri, for providing light in places where darkness loomed; for illuminating the minds of students whose pathways had no clear directions.

Congratulations!

______

Oladeinde is the Business, Energy & Economy Editor of Premium Times

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The increasing fusion of technology with the news media landscape, particularly in news writing and content creation, has ushered in a wave of revolutionary changes. As we navigate this era of technological innovation, it is essential to spotlight how African news publishers can forge meaningful partnerships with AI companies, particularly around negotiating compensation for the use of their content, co-developing industry codes of conduct, and building internal capacity to harness new technologies in their work.

AI use in the news media industry introduces new and more efficient methods for news production and content personalisation. But while the opportunities are vast, the risks, especially of job displacement and loss of content control, are equally significant. In this context, African publishers must form strategic alliances with key actors in the technology and AI industries to remain competitive and innovative in the digital age.

Global precedents already point the way. The Associated Press (AP), for instance, entered into a licensing agreement with OpenAI, granting access to its text archive in exchange for advanced AI tools. Shutterstock, another example, monetised its image and video library while also benefiting from AI enhancements. Similarly, AP, Axel Springer, Le Monde, Prisa Media, and the Financial Times have all secured high-profile licensing agreements with AI companies. Dotdash Meredith recently signed a multi-year deal with OpenAI, which includes content licensing and collaboration on new AI products.

In many of these deals, OpenAI reportedly offers publishers between $1 million and $5 million annually for access to their content archives. While this sum may be modest relative to OpenAIs financial resources, it poses a barrier for smaller competitors seeking to negotiate similar terms, further cementing OpenAIs competitive advantage.

However, not all content owners accept AI training arrangements. The New York Times has sued OpenAI over unsatisfactory licensing terms, while The Intercept and Raw Story have also filed lawsuits for copyright infringement, claiming their content was used without permission. petitioned AI companies for compensation, calling for consent, credit, and fair remuneration in an open letter to leaders of major AI firms.

These cases question whether web-scraped content usage by AI systems is fair use or a copyright violation, which could establish important precedents for the AI industry. OpenAI argues its use falls under fair use and continues using the contested content until a definitive ruling is made. Nevertheless, OpenAIs CEO, Sam Altman, has recognised creators concerns and is committed to finding ways to compensate authors when their content or style is utilised.

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

Where does African media stand in all of this?

Publisher groups in Indonesia, the US, the UK, and South Africa have refrained from publicly disclosing what they believe Big Tech owes them. In South Africa, the South African National Editors Forum (SANEF), a nonprofit membership organisation, is advocating for the inclusion of small publishers in agreements with Google. Some South Africans support the idea of a journalism fund, though questions remain about who should manage such a fund. Other publishers reject one-time funds, preferring guarantees of future revenue instead. Taiwan, by contrast, has already convinced Google to pledge $9.8 million over three years to support digitisation in Taiwanese media organisations even before formal legislation is in place.

These developments raise the uncomfortable question: while media companies in Europe and elsewhere are negotiating substantial payments, why do African media houses continue to struggle for fair compensation? In countries like Australia, Canada, and France, publishers have actively pushed for compensation, especially when their content is used to train large language models (LLMs). Legal tools such as neighbouring rights are being explored to create frameworks ensuring that media companies are paid when their work is used by tech platforms.

The challenges African publishers face are complex and layered: limited technical capacity, lack of strategic media alliances, inconsistent content quality, poor understanding of content monetisation, and a long erosion of traditional revenue models since the 2010s. In countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa, media organisations have experimented with alternative revenue structures, including donor-funded and nonprofit models. While these models initially promised editorial independence and public-interest journalism amid dwindling ad revenues, they have also undermined the commercial viability of many outlets.

Technological limitations worsen the challenges faced by African publishers. As Victor Asemota noted, the truth about our tech in Africa is that we own nothing and host almost nothing. Poor internet infrastructure and outdated content management systems prevent full integration with platforms like Google, hampering monetisation efforts.

Without cohesive regional coalitions, publishers struggle to demand equitable terms, limiting their bargaining power and knowledge sharing. Strategic alliances among African publishers are essential for collective bargaining, enhancing negotiating power, and unlocking new funding and technology opportunities. By developing actionable frameworks, publishers can position African media to claim their fair share of digital revenues through initiatives like media sustainability funds and coordinated advocacy efforts.

Botswana serves as a live example, as the country is now engaging media development stakeholders to advocate for regional policies inspired by Indonesias legislation, which is modelled after Australias. These policies would formalise licensing mechanisms and require algorithmic transparency.

The path forward must be underpinned by investment-backed partnerships. Without a coordinated strategy, African publishers will continue to lack the leverage to negotiate fair compensation. Fragmentation will persist, and the gap between local media ecosystems and global tech powerhouses will only widen.

READ ALSO: Zamfara govt partners Oracle to boost digital skills development

Despite the growing trend of newsrooms in Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and other African countries shifting towards nonprofit and donor-funded models, this transition has often complicated traditional monetisation strategies. The question remains: what comes next? The Media Development Investment Fund (MDIF) is encouraging newsrooms and media outlets in Africa to prioritise audience engagement, product innovation, and revenue generation. This approach represents a promising path forward in promoting media independence through product-driven revenue.

Many initiatives focused on tech accountability address issues such as labour exploitation, data privacy violations, and concerns about bias and exclusion. Efforts to negotiate compensation from companies that develop LLMs for the media content used in their AI tools seem to predominantly originate from the Global North, suggesting a broader advocacy campaign. However, there is still a lack of accountability regarding compensation for African content. If large tech companies benefit from the assumption that African newsrooms lack agency or are viewed as a weaker force, then compensation for the African media industry must be at the centre of the tech and AI accountability discussion.

In order to effectively engage in the global digital landscape, African publishers must promote collaboration across the continent, deepen their understanding of digital content monetisation, and initiate bold policy advocacy campaigns to secure more favourable terms from Big Tech. If these steps are not taken, media houses on the continent risk becoming mere spectators in the AI-driven global information economy.

There is an urgent need for African publishers to be actively involved in negotiations with AI companies that utilise local content to train large language models (LLMs). They must advocate for fair compensation and ensure long-term value from the integration of AI technologies into their content operations. Compensation structures, whether through licensing fees, revenue sharing, or access to advanced tools, should be designed not only to compensate for past contributions but also to invest in the future of African journalism.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The Awyetu Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), located at Bwari General Hospital, Abuja has received a total of 345 Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) cases from 2020 to 2024.

The Mandate Secretary, FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, stated this in Abuja on Tuesday, when Najat Mjid, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General on Violence against Children, visited the centre.

Mrs Benjamins-Laniyi added that 84 per cent of the cases were children under 18 years, adding that efforts are ongoing to strengthen collaboration with security agencies to bring the perpetrators of SGBV to justice.

She further said that beyond security agencies, the FCT Administration would also ensure active participation of residents and community leaders in the activities of the centre.

Also, Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary, Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Federal Capital Territory Administration, explained that the centre was established in 2020.

Ms Fasawe, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the secretariat, Baba-Gana Adam, said that the centre was established by the British Council on behalf of the European Union.

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

She added that under the EUs Rule of Law and Anticorruption (ROLAC) Programme, the centre was established to provide comprehensive medical, psychological, and legal support to survivors of sexual violence.

Also, the Medical Director of the hospital, Ibrahim Mijinyawa said that out of the 345 cases, 313 were females, representing 90.7 per cent while 32 were males representing 9.3 per cent.

Mr Mijinyawa added that 289 of the cases, representing 83.7 per cent were children below 19 years, while the remaining 56 representing 16.3 per cent were people above 18 years.

READ ALSO: Police expand GBV desks across Nigeria

The Centre Manager, Bejide Augustine, said that a total of 18 cases were reported from January to date, out of which 16 were females and two males.

Mr Augustine added that 17 of the survivors were below 18 years.

He identified the services being provided at the centre to include medical examinations and treatment, forensic evidence collection in collaboration with law enforcement, and psychosocial counselling and trauma care.

Others, he said, include legal aid and referral services, and community awareness and prevention programmes which were yet to commence.

The Bwari SARC operates under a survivor-centred approach, ensuring dignity, confidentiality, and access to justice for all survivors, he said.

The centre is collaborating with other government and non-governmental organisations.

(NAN)

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The Deputy Director of Medical Laboratory Services at National Hospital in Abuja, Emmanuel Akhaumere, has called for increased public awareness about proper blood collection practices.

Mr Akhaumere made the call on Tuesday during the OncoSeek Cancer Training for Journalists, an initiative aimed at deepening media understanding of cancer diagnostics and highlighting the essential role laboratories play in early detection.

The theme of the training is Effective Reporting of OncoSeek as an AI-Predictive Early Cancer Diagnostic Tool.

He reiterated the hospitals commitment to deploying cutting-edge technology to enhance Nigerias healthcare capacity and align its diagnostic services with global standards, particularly in cancer detection.

We are not suggesting that patients should carry out professionals tasks. When patients are informed about what is right, they can help prevent mistakes. Knowledge is power, he said.

He explained how simple errors, such as misidentifying a patient or drawing blood from the wrong site, could jeopardise test results and potentially endanger lives.

One of the events key highlights is an explanation of the Cobas E411 analyser, an advanced diagnostic machine based on electrochemiluminescence principles.

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

Mr Akhaumere likened its precision to finding a single person in Chinas population of over 1.4 billion, without knowing their address.

This is the level of sensitivity and importance this machine holds. What used to take a whole day to test five tumour markers can now be completed in just 18 minutes per test, with a total throughput of up to 180 tests per hour, he said.

He added that the Cobas E411 uses reagents known as Arcasex and has become an integral part of cancer marker analysis at the National Hospital due to its precision, reliability, and user-friendly design.

The National Hospitals laboratory participates in external quality assurance programmes, including blind sample testing from global companies like Bio-Rad. The facility has completed multiple cycles of testing, consistently delivering high-quality results, he said.

He shared a memorable story about a patient who sent their National Hospital test results to a US cancer centre for further analysis.

The results were not only accepted but were also confirmed as identical to those of the US facility. The doctor in the US was surprised to learn that the results had come from Nigeria.

We should never underestimate what we have, he added.

He also stressed the importance of early detection in cancer treatment. According to him, cancers detected early can often be treated effectively, with many patients entering remission or being cured altogether.

He illustrated how early cervical cancer could be completely treated through minor procedures, such as a loop biopsy, if diagnosed early.

If a patient comes in for a routine screening and we identify changes in their cervix, we can treat them right away, ensuring they are free of cancer for life, he said.

He explained that the same principle applies to other cancers, such as breast cancer, where early-stage diagnosis and treatment can prevent the need for more aggressive interventions.

The event also highlighted the need for greater public advocacy regarding early patient presentation. Echoing this sentiment, he stressed the importance of responsible health communication and the critical role of early screenings in preventing late-stage diagnoses.

Even malaria, as treatable as it is, can kill if not detected and treated early. Imagine cancer. Advocacy for early presentation is key; it can save lives, he said.Mary Clement, a gynaecologist at Asokoro General Hospital, also underscored the importance of early clinical judgment.

Ms Clement said that biopsy and imaging, such as MRI scans, are essential in confirming cancer suspicions and guiding treatment plans.

Before you tell a patient they have cancer, it takes a constellation of investigations. Early detection is powerful, not just for diagnosis but for cure, she said.

Some cervical and breast cancers can be completely treated if caught early, sometimes without chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

(NAN)

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has said a 0.5ml Auto Disable Syringe produced by Afrimedical Manufacturing and Supplies Ltd, has achieved the World Health Organisation (WHO) prequalification.

NAFDAC Director-General, Mojisola Adeyeye, disclosed this at a news conference on Wednesday in Lagos, describing it as a significant milestone for Nigeria and the West and Central Africa region.

Mrs Adeyeye, a professor, said Afrimedical, located in Ogun, is the first indigenous syringe manufacturer in Nigeriaand the entire West and Central Africato receive WHO prequalification for its syringes.

She noted that the achievement followed a rigorous process, substantial investment, and technical support and guidance provided by NAFDAC.

This milestone aligns with the agenda of the President Bola Tinubu-led administration to promote local production of medical products, she said.

It is with great joy that I announce that, after a rigorous process, the WHO has prequalified Afrimedicals 0.5ml AD Syringes. They are now eligible for national and international procurement by relevant agencies and organisations.

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

Mrs Adeyeye added that Afrimedical is now the first manufacturer in West Africa to be recognised by WHO as operating at an acceptable level of compliance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) requirements.

She emphasised that NAFDAC, in its drive to become a world-class regulator, embraced global best practices in all aspects of medical product regulation.

Mrs Adeyeye disclosed that in 2023, only three out of seven indigenous syringe manufacturers in Nigeria were functional, collectively operating at less than 20 per cent of their combined installed capacity of 2.5 billion syringes per year.

She highlighted NAFDACs 5+5 policy, introduced in 2019, which restricted the importation of medicines and devices that could be produced locally.

Products with five-year registration validity that can be manufactured in Nigeria will be granted one final five-year renewal, after which importation will no longer be allowed, she explained.

READ ALSO: Health advocates call for urgent investment in midwives to tackle maternal deaths

Local manufacturing

Following NAFDACs attainment of WHO Maturity Level 3 in 2023, the agency began engaging international procurement bodies, such as UNICEFs supply division in Copenhagen, to promote patronage of locally manufactured medical products, including syringes.

The Director-General urged other indigenous manufacturers to emulate Afrimedicals achievement through collaboration and alignment with NAFDACs regulatory goals.

Also speaking at the event, Afrimedical General Manager, Gabi Al-Aridi, described the WHO prequalification as a major milestone for the company, NAFDAC, and Nigeria as a whole.

Mr Al-Aridi praised the federal governments efforts to support local production and stated that Afrimedical currently produces about 1.8 billion syringes annually.

He reaffirmed the companys commitment to high-quality, locally made medical products and encouraged Nigerians to embrace them to help boost the nations economy.

(NAN)

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The management of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) in Enugu State, has refuted a report that one of its lecturers was extorting new students of the institution.

The UNN spokesperson, Okwun Omeaku, announced the universitys position in a statement on Tuesday.

On Saturday, a video clip showing a male UNN lecturer collecting money from new students surfaced on social media.

A male voice in the background of the clip, seen by PREMIUM TIMES, claimed that the academic was extorting N16,000 from the students in order to issue them clearance documents.

He also claimed that the lecturer was extorting the new students at the Faculty of Agriculture of the university.

UNN speaks

In the Tuesday statement, Mr Omeaku said the university had identified the lecturer in the clip, and that he was collecting legitimate fees from the students, contrary to the report.

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 (the lecturer) acted under the directive of the Faculty of Agriculture Administration to collect fees related to the faculty and student association obligations.

Specifically, the money he was seen collecting covered the faculty levy and the Nigerian Association of Agricultural Students (NAAS) dues, he said.

The UNN spokesperson, however, said that although the lecturers intention was not to extort the students, the method of collection falls short of the universitys fee collection standards.

He said the collection ought not to have been conducted outside the standard payment channels of banks.

Mr Omeaku said the university authorities were currently reviewing the actions of the lecturer to prevent future occurrences.

We will ensure that appropriate measures are implemented to reinforce proper financial procedures, especially in the faculties and departments.

The management has directed all faculties, departments, and centres to collect approved fees strictly through the banks or official university payment platforms, he stated.

Zero tolerance for extortion

Meanwhile, Mr Omeaku stressed that UNN does not condone extortion or unethical behaviour by its staff or students.

The spokesperson said the university was committed to upholding the highest standards of accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct.

The management of the university will not hesitate to deal with any staff (member) who exploits our students in any way, he added.

Not the first time

This is not the first time extortion allegations have been reported in UNN, Nigerias first indigenous university.

In July 2024, a doctoral student of the university alleged that there were ongoing cases of extortion of postgraduate students in the universitys political science department.

READ ALSO: Nigerian govt inaugurates committee to reform NYSC

The unidentified student also claimed that some lecturers  mainly the departments head and the coordinator of the universitys postgraduate programme  were extorting between N35,000 and N500,000 from postgraduate students.

The student pointed out that the lecturers allegedly carry out the extortion using class representatives who usually report back to them.

The university authorities would later promise to investigate the allegations against the lecturers, assuring that they would continue to protect students from the activities of a few bad eggs within the institution.

However, the university has yet to make public the outcome of the investigation on the incident, nearly a year later.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The Senate, on Tuesday, constituted an 18-member committee to oversee the operation of the emergency administration in Rivers State.

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, announced the committee during the plenary after a majority of the senators supported it through voice votes.

Mr Akpabio said the committee would be chaired by the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, who represents Ekiti Central Senatorial District.

Other members of the committee are Adamu Aliero (Kebbi), Osita Izunaso (Imo), Osita Ngwu (Enugu), Kaka Shehu (Borno) Aminu Abass (Adamawa), Tokunbo Abiru (Lagos) Adeniyi Adegbonmire (Ondo), Sani Musa (Niger), Simon Lalong (Plateau), Asuquo Ekpeyong (Cross-Rivers), Adams Oshiomhole (Edo), Ireti Kingibe (FCT), Onyekachi Nwebonyi (Ebonyi), Idiat Adebule (Lagos), Ede Dafinone (Delta), Mohammed Nakudu (Jigawa), and the Clerk of the Senate, Andrew Nwoba.

The committees primary objective is to ensure transparency, accountability, and proper governance during the states six-month emergency rule.

Mr Akpabio urged the committee to begin its oversight functions immediately to safeguard democratic norms and prevent potential abuse of power during the emergency period.

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

PREMIUM TIMES reports that in March, President Bola Tinubu suspended all elected officials in Rivers State, including the governor, Siminilayi Fubara. The president also appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired chief of naval staff, as the sole administrator for the state for an initial period of six months.

The appointment was later ratified by both chambers of the National Assembly in accordance with Section 305(2) of the Nigerian Constitution.

The state of emergency was, however, opposed by some Nigerians, including the South-South Governors Forum.

The Chairperson of the Forum, Douye Diri, who is also the governor of Bayelsa State, said the political situation in Rivers did not deteriorate to a point where it required an emergency rule, considering the provisions of Section 305(3) of the Nigerian Constitution.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) also condemned the emergency declaration and the appointment of Mr Ibas.

The association said President Tinubu lacked the authority to remove an elected governor from office.

Like the Senate, the House of Representatives also has a committee to oversee the development in Rivers. It inaugurated the committee on 15 April. It is chaired by the House Leader, Julius Ihonvbere.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The mass defection of politicians from opposition parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has raised debates about the integrity of Nigerias political institutions and parties.

In the nearly two years since the 2023 general elections, the APC has either infiltrated or dominated opposition strongholds.

Nigerias democratic system thrives on a vibrant and functional opposition, like other liberal democracies. However, opposition political parties in the country are buffeted by intra-party wrangling, which takes the wind out of their sails.

Activists and observers said the absence of a strong opposition has left Nigerias democracy vulnerable to unchecked executive power, resulting in governance that often lacks accountability.

Recently, the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, a member of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), publicly declared support for the reelection of President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

In parables, Mr Eno also hinted about de-boarding from a faulty aircraft to enter a different plane in the coming days.

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

Just before those remarks, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori defected with all the states structures of the PDP to the APC in late April, abruptly severing control the main opposition party held on the oil-rich South-south state for 26 years. There are reports of other PDP governors plotting the same move.

Mr Oborevworis predecessor, Ifeanyi Okowa, who was the PDP vice presidential candidate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the 2023 general elections, joined in the mass defection.

Mr Oborevwori said his decision to join the APC was based on the love President Bola Tinubu has shown to us in Delta State. He believed that presidential love requires wholesale electoral support from the state in 2027.

This is a movement, this is not a defection; we (governors) have agreed we will move together, and when we move together, what is at the national level we will be able to grab it, he said.

His remarks affirmed the speculation that more opposition parties had agreed to switch to the ruling party,

At the National Assembly, several lawmakers have also dumped their parties to expand the majority of the APC.

One-party state

A group of Nigerian activists said the wave of defections suggests a drift towards a one-party state and authoritarianism.

The group alleged a calculated and systematic effort by the administration of President Tinubu to dismantle the democratic foundations of our republic and reduce Nigeria to a one-party state through bribery, blackmail, and coercion.

The presidency, however, dismissed the allegation as baseless and exaggerated.

The Nigerian political opposition is fragmented and largely ineffective. Entrapped in this maelstrom are the PDP and the Labour Party (LP), which rattled the APC in the 2023 presidential election. The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has also joined the mix.

Fights for control of these parties have torn them into factions. As such, their leaderships are preoccupied with how to survive, neglecting their role of putting the APC-led government on its toes as the opposition, through constructive criticisms and alternative policies.

The PDP, once Nigerias dominant political force, faces internal divisions, sabotage and ineffective leadership. Under the current acting chairman, Umar Damagum, the party is crisis-riven and factionalised, with many state chapters disunited. One faction is under the influence of Nyesom Wike, a former PDP governor of Rivers State now serving in the APC-led federal government as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The other is on the side of its presidential candidate in 2023, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Another faction is said to be loyal to the Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed.

Some analysts described the PDP as an extension of the APC, unable to mobilise effectively against the ruling partys policies. The defections by key PDP figures have weakened its national standing and influence.

When Ned Nwoko, the senator representing Delta North, defected to the APC in January, he cited deep divisions and internal strife at the state and national levels as his reasons for leaving the PDP.

The LP, which garnered significant support from young and urban voters, is also struggling with internal disputes, legal battles, and power wrangling.

Similarly, the NNPP faces significant internal crises in Kano, the only state it runs, and at the national level. Kawu Sumaila, the Kano South senator, resigned from the NNPP and joined the APC in April. Other NNPP lawmakers are expected to follow suit in the coming days.

Analysts said the absence of institutional structures and the prevalence of patronage politics weakened these parties, making them ineffective in consolidating opposition forces.

There is also widespread suspicion that APC uses state resources to induce opposition leaders or coerce their government officials with threats of corruption prosecution, allegations that the ruling party has consistently denied.

Some opposition figures are believed to have been compromised, leading to a lack of trust in their leadership, said political expert Dakuku Peterside. When opposition leaders are seen as moles or agents of the party in power, it undermines their ability to present a serious challenge to the ruling party.

The opposition space in Nigeria has remained fractured, allowing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to operate with little or no alternative voices and cruising as the political Octopus. APC has effectively established itself as the dominant political force, often unchallenged in policymaking and governance. The failure of opposition parties to unite under a common goal has further entrenched APCs political control, making governance almost a one-party affair, Mr Peterside said.

Meanwhile, in its use of patronage and coercion, the APC is only repeating what the PDP did in the past. In 1999, the PDP won the presidency, 241 of the 360 seats in the House of Representatives, 71 of the 109 senatorial seats, and its members were elected governors in 21 of the 36 states.

Four years later, with politicians from other parties trooping in for their slices of the federal pie, PDP won the governorship elections in 28 of the 36 states and took 76 senatorial seats. Now the tide has turned. It is uncertain how many of the 11 governors it produced two years ago remain committed to the PDP.

Mr Peterside said opposition parties have failed to articulate distinct policy alternatives, leaving governance unchallenged and unresponsive to citizens needs. An effective opposition serves as a watchdog, providing checks and balances to the ruling party while offering alternative policies that enhance governance.

Without meaningful policy debates, decisions are made that lack depth, often without proper scrutiny or public engagement. For example, when President Bola Tinubu removed fuel subsidy in 2023, opposition parties failed to present an alternative plan, leaving civil society groups to lead protests against the consequential economic hardship, Mr Peterside said.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The United States (US) intends to significantly reduce its contributions to the United Nations (UN), including a complete withdrawal of funding for peacekeeping operations, according to a recent Washington Post report.

The decision must still be formalised by the State Department and approved by Congress, but its an ominous sign of what may lie ahead for both UN and African Union-led peace support operations (PSOs). This includes the new AU Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which already faces major funding uncertainties.

While the European Union (EU) is still committed to multilateralism, its growing focus on the war in Ukraine may lead to a decline in assistance for PSOs in Africa and elsewhere.

The changing multilateral context and resource constraints require innovative thinking from the AU and its member states. Not only are PSOs beyond the financial capabilities of African countries and regional organisations, but traditional partners are growing reluctant to fund an instrument that struggles to demonstrate its efficiency.

In recent years, laudable efforts have been made to meet the AU Peace Funds endowment target of $400 million, but using the income for PSOs such as AUSSOM would deplete it. Despite some Western partners committing to support the Peace Fund once it starts financing AU-led operations, the sheer number of conflict hotspots across Africa casts doubt on the sustainability of that option.

Reimagining PSOs  particularly their conflict management role  starts with acknowledging that they are just a means to an end, namely the peaceful resolution of violent conflicts, as articulated in the AUs normative frameworks. Peace missions are not meant to last for decades.

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

As often reiterated since the 2015 UN High-level Independent Panel on Peace Operations report, peacekeeping should be informed by a political strategy grounded in a measured understanding of what these operations can realistically achieve. To improve future funding prospects, peacekeeping should focus on visible impact and realistic results.

AU-led missions can, for example, help stabilise conflict environments and create the conditions for political dialogue. They can also support the implementation of political agreements.

One of the most important lessons of multidimensional peace operations is that the instrument is not fit for long-term endeavours such as state-building or fostering societal cohesion. These are inherently endogenous processes. Clarity of purpose and modest ambition must become the guiding principles of a redefined peace support model.

This new model should blend various existing approaches, guided by the spirit of the Powell Doctrine. In a 1984 speech on the use of military power, then US Defence Secretary Caspar Weinberger set out criteria that would inform what is today known as the Powell Doctrine, named after late Chief of Joint Staff General Colin Powell.

These criteria included a clearly defined vital interest, a firm intention to win, proportionality between objectives and military means, support from the public and Congress, and the use of force as a last resort.

In the context of African PSOs, the new model could rest on four key principles: clear and limited mandates, time-bound deployment, selective criteria for troop-contributing countries, and multidisciplinary deployments.

First, it is vital to have political and military clarity on the missions objectives. The scope of the mandate should be limited to a maximum of three core objectives, primarily within the political and security domains.

Second, each mission should be subject to a clearly defined and non-renewable timeframe. This is essential to avoid the risks of institutional inertia that often arise in protracted deployments.

Third, the AU should consider adopting a middle-ground position between the North Atlantic Treaty Organizations framework nations concept and the current AU lead-nation approach. It is important that capable African countries be given more responsibilities in leading missions, supported by no more than two additional contributing countries.

This streamlined approach would help address some of the persistent command and control challenges that often undermine the effectiveness of AU-led missions, including AUSSOM. Also, states sharing a border with crisis-affected countries should be excluded from participating in the operation to avoid conflicts of interest and safeguard the missions credibility and neutrality.

The fourth principle is to avoid an overly militarised approach to peace operations. Many security challenges  such as protecting civilians  require police-led rather than military responses. Future missions should be genuinely multidisciplinary, demand-driven and tailored to the needs of each situation.

A reimagined PSO model should be based on the rationale of acting swiftly, forcefully if necessary, and withdrawing as soon as conditions permit  leaving the space for a sustainable political process.

Strengthening the political dimension of these operations is vital. Prolonged peacekeeping missions often result from the failure of internal and external stakeholders to develop political solutions that would render peacekeeping unnecessary.

The AUs main value lies in its political and diplomatic legitimacy. That means it should enhance the capacity of its political units and diplomatic instruments both within and beyond PSOs.

While the AU Peace and Security Councils primary function should be to prevent conflicts from breaking out, it could help manage conflicts by developing accountability instruments such as a sanctions regime. Along with robust procedures for adopting and enforcing sanctions, this could pressure conflict parties towards dialogue and compliance with agreed frameworks.

However, member states resistance to sanctions remains strong despite the looming risk of another postponement of the Silencing the Guns by 2030 goal, which would significantly damage the AUs credibility.

Substantial normative shifts are needed across the crisis management cycle of the AU and UN. Rather than just a facelift, this requires a complete rethink that reflects the ongoing transformation of the international order.

A thorough overhaul of the African PSO concept is vital to reinvigorating the AUs Peace and Security Architecture and resolving the continents enduring instability.

Paul-Simon Handy, Regional Director East Africa and Representative to the African Union, Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Addis Ababa and Felicite Djilo, Independent Analyst, ISS

(This article was first published by ISS Today, a Premium Times syndication partner. We have their permission to republish).

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


Nigerian senators have commenced debate on the tax reform bills proposed by President Bola Tinubu.

The deliberation, during the plenary, began at 2:35 p.m. after the senators returned from a closed-door session which lasted for about two hours.

Consideration of the tax reform bills was the only item listed on Wednesdays order paper of the Senate.

The tax reform bills passed second reading in the Senate last November, and the House of Representatives passed them at third reading in March 2025, shortly before the lawmakers adjourned for the Easter and Eid-el-Fitr holidays.

Following the second reading in the Senate, the bills were referred to the Senate Committee on Finance, chaired by Niger East Senator Sani Musa, for detailed review and public consultation. The committee conducted multiple public hearings, where a majority of stakeholders voiced support for the reforms.

On Tuesday, Mr Musa submitted the committees final report to the Senate for adoption and consideration of the bills.

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

Upon reconvening after the closed-door session, the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, announced the tax bills for consideration.

The finance committee chairman, thereafter, led the debate on general principles of the tax reform bills during the plenary by presenting the committees report.

Mr Musa said the committee members duly reviewed the provisions of the tax reform bills and conducted public hearings for public participation.

He said about 64 organisations, including Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), attended the public hearing, and a majority of them supported the bills.

On the sharing formula for Value-Added Tax, the senator recommended 10 per cent for the federal government, 55 per cent for state governments and the Federal Capital Territory, and 35 per cent for local governments.

He also recommended retaining 10 per cent of funding for TETFUND, 10 per cent for NASENI, and 10 per cent for NITDA.

Mr Musa also noted that the committee included 5 per cent funding for cybersecurity and 10 per cent funding for defence.

The senator, therefore, recommended the passage of the tax reform bills with the argument that it would improve economic growth, simplify tax compliance and boost investor confidence.

Kebbi North Senator Yahaya Abdullahi supported the bills and urged his colleagues to support it.

The tax bills

The tax reform bills were drafted by the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms. The bills are: the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, the Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill.

READ ALSO: Senate to hold national summit on insecurity

These proposed laws aim to adjust the Value-Added Tax (VAT) revenue-sharing formula and introduce tax exemptions for Nigerians earning the minimum wage or below.

Since their transmission to the National Assembly on 3 October 2024, the tax reform bills have generated significant debate, particularly regarding their regional implications.

Some lawmakers from Northern Nigeria and members of the Northern Governors Forum expressed concerns that the VAT component disproportionately benefits some regions over others. In response, the forum directed its representatives in the National Assembly to oppose the bills.

Despite these objections, the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) expressed strong support for the reforms after engaging with the presidents economic team.

Meanwhile, senators from the South-east indicated the need for further consultations with their governors and stakeholders, while South-south senators warned against introducing ethnic or regional biases into the debate.

M Akpabio had assured that the National Assembly would conduct a thorough review and ensure the passage of bills that benefit the entire country.

More details will be provided in subsequent reports.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


After recording a record loss of N1.27 trillion in 2023, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) returned to profitability in 2024 with a surplus of N38.8 billion, newly released financial statements show.

The turnaround was largely driven by a sharp rise in revaluation gains and profits made when the value of assets such as foreign reserves increased, alongside a tripling of other income to N12.9 trillion.

However, the central bank continued to post steep losses on derivative contracts, which ballooned to N13.88 trillion, more than double the previous years figure. The report did not provide a breakdown of the contracts involved.

The CBNs total assets climbed to N117.6 trillion, up from N87.9 trillion in 2023, fuelled by a jump in Nigerias external reserves. Currency in circulation, deposits, and IMF-related liabilities also rose significantly.

Despite the profit, the bank is still weighed down by large accumulated losses and shrinking equity, with group equity falling by half to N1.01 trillion.

The charts below show a breakdown of the numbers behind the CBNs financial turnaround and other lingering concerns.

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

More Infographics

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The Senate on Tuesday resolved to organise a two-day national summit on insecurity with a view to proffering solutions to terrorism, insurgency and other security challenges in the country.

The upper chamber made the decision after adopting a motion sponsored by Ondo South senator, Jimoh Ibrahim, during the plenary.

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, announced the decision after a majority of the senators supported it through voice votes during the plenary.

Mr Akpabio said the summit would involve the presidency, state governors, traditional leaders, student bodies and representatives from communities ravaged by insurgency.

The security summit will comprise delegates from the state, delegates from the traditional institutions, from student bodies, communities affected by the insurgency and also relevant committees.

And we will also invite security experts to talk to us, and also have the executive to participate so that we will have a holistic debate because security is everybodys business, Mr Akpabio said.

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

This is not the first time a national security summit has been considered by the national assembly. The 9th National Assembly, under former Senate President Ahmad Lawan and former Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila, held a summit in May 2021 to address Nigerias security challenges.

Despite the high-profile participation of security experts, civil society organisations, and government representatives, the security challenges have remained.

The current 10th Senate has also summoned service chiefs and heads of security agencies numerous times since its inauguration in 2023, and there have been several debates on security in the two chambers of the national assembly, yet insecurity remains a national concern. Kidnappings, insurgency and banditry have persisted, with many citizens expressing frustration over the lack of visible progress.

Issues the summit will address

One of the critical issues the upcoming summit aims to address is the leakage of sensitive military information to militant groups.

Mr Akpabio expressed concern that militants access operational intelligence, suggesting that there may be flaws in the militarys recruitment and internal processes.

It is worrisome. By the time we have the security summit, you will realise that the reason why all these have been leaked to militants is because we have a problem, he said.

He said that many dismissed military personnel often end up training militants, passing on the tactics and strategies they learned during their service.

The senate president said the summit will, therefore, explore the implications of military discharges, recruitment procedures, and the effectiveness of community policing.

When the army sacks hundreds of soldiers, many of them will go into training of militants. Then the languages they were taught will now be passed to the militants.

We will discuss the issue of recruitment. How can we utilise the community vigilante? How can we have community policing?

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


China and the United States are preparing to begin talks to de-escalate their weeks-long trade dispute.

Officials representing both countries will meet on Saturday in Switzerland to discuss steps toward ending the trade war.

The US announced this on Tuesday, and China confirmed the meeting shortly after, according to Reuters.

Tensions between China and the US have intensified since President Donald Trump returned to the White House, introducing a wave of executive orders and tariffs that disrupted global trade.

China has been the hardest hit by new US tariffs, which rose to 145 per cent in April. In response, the Asian giant imposed a 125 per cent retaliatory tariff on some US goods.

However, the two sides are expected to discuss reducing the broader tariffs at the end of the week.

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 meeting, which will be held from 9 to 12 May, will be between US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, its chief trade negotiator Jamieson Greer, and Chinas economist, He Lifeng.

The parties are also expected to discuss the removal of tariffs on certain products and the export control list.

According to the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, the country agreed to meet the US envoys after considering global expectations.

On the basis of fully considering global expectations, Chinas interests, and the appeals of US industry and consumers, China has decided to re-engage the US, the Chinese statement said.

It also states that, There is an old Chinese saying: Listen to what is said, and watch what is done. If the US says one thing but then does another, or attempts to use talks as a cover to continue coercion and blackmail, China will never agree.

This meeting could ease a month-long, economically harmful trade standoff between the worlds two largest economies.

Earlier in the year, the Trump administration justified the tariff imposed on China by accusing it of contributing to the flow of fentanyl and its ingredients into the United States, alongside a range of unfair trade practices.

President Trump and his advisers have also criticised Beijing for failing to honour commitments made in a trade agreement negotiated during his first term.

In response, China has labeled Mr Trumps tariffs as illegal and unreasonable.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called on media professionals and editors to be discerning in their reportage of the activities of terrorist groups threatening peace and stability in Nigeria.

Mr Idris stated this in his opening remarks at the seventh 2025 ministerial press briefing, featuring the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, and his counterpart in the Ministry of Environment, Balarabe Lawal.

The information minister explained that both ministers were brought to the forum to update Nigerians about key achievements, ongoing initiatives and policy directions of their ministries.

He said such briefings are aimed at encouraging transparency, accountability and public engagement. Mr Idris said that at least eight ministers have been invited to engage the public since the beginning of this year.

Noting that no nation can achieve sustainable development without peace and security, Mr Idris said the President Tinubi-led administration prioritises peace and stability as the second pillar of its Renewed Hope Agenda. He said the government has provided armament for troops, enhanced intelligence gathering and intensive training.

The media as a gatekeeper, the information minister said, has a crucial role to play in supporting our militarys morale by highlighting their successes and sacrifices.

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

Our armed forces are not only respected by global allies but also feared by those who threaten our collective peace, he said.

Mr Idris said it is important to recognise that the fight against insecurity is not limited to combat approaches. It is also a battle for the hearts and minds of our people, which the terrorist groups are actively exploiting through propaganda, especially on social media platforms, he said.

I therefore call on my colleagues, the media professionals and the editors to be discerning in their reportage, Mr Idris urged. We must deny these groups the undue publicity they crave. We must take them off the front pages and accurately report them as the criminals that they are without glorifying their acts or giving credence to their false narratives.

He added: These groups are not freedom fighters, they are murderers, kidnappers and destroyers, and they must be presented as such.

READ ALSO: Kidnapped Nigerian professor freed

Let us remember that responsible and patriotic journalism is essential to building a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria. The one that owes a promise not just for our country but for the development and stability of the West African region and the African continent at large.

The information minister has been on the frontline, downplaying the resurgence of Boko Haram terrorists in the North-east. A few weeks ago, he countered the Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, who raised concerns about the resurgence of insurgency in his state.

Since the beginning of the year, Boko Haram and its breakaway faction, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have intensified their campaign of terror in locations insurgency experts described as BAY [Borno, Adamawa and Yobe] states, destroying infrastructure and attacking military formations as well as targeting civilians they perceived as threats or collaborators of the state.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The Senate, on Wednesday, passed two of the four tax reform bills proposed by President Bola Tinubu.

The two bills passed were the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill and the Nigerian Tax Administration Bill.

The bills were passed after the senators reviewed the report of an ad-hoc committee chaired by Niger East Senator Sani Musa. The committee was constituted to address controversies and disputes surrounding the proposed reforms. On Wednesday, the contents of the bills were debated and considered at the Committee of the Whole.

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, announced passage of the bill after a majority of the senators supported it through voice votes.

Mr Akpabio said the Senate will set up a committee to harmonise its decision on the bills with the version passed by the House of Representatives in March. Once harmonised, the unified bills will be transmitted to President Tinubu for assent.

The senate president said the remaining two bills, the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill and Nigeria Tax Bill, would be passed on Thursday.

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

Recommendations

On the distribution of VAT revenue, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill proposed 15 per cent for the federal government, 50 per cent for the states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and 35 per cent for the local governments.

However, the committee recommended a new distribution of 10 per cent to the federal government, 55 per cent to the states and the FCT, and 35 per cent to the local governments.

For the distribution of the VAT revenue meant for states, the committee recommended that 50 per cent should be shared equally among all the states, 20 per cent should be shared based on the population of each state and 30 per cent based on the place of consumption of the goods and services from where the VAT was raised.

For distribution of VAT meant for local governments, the committee recommended that 70 per cent should be shared equally among all the local governments and 30 per cent should be shared based on the population of each local government.

The committee also amended Clause 107 of the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill which prescribed that anybody who fails to remit tax deducted at source or self-account shall on conviction be liable to a term of imprisonment not exceeding three years.

The committee also recommended the creation of a Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS) to replace the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) as the body responsible for federal tax collection.

On the proposed structure of the agency, the committee proposed the appointment of a board chairperson who will be appointed by the Nigerian president. There shall also be an executive vice chairperson who will serve as the head of the agency, subject to Senate confirmation. There shall also be a secretary who must be a lawyer, chartered accountant or chartered secretary, with at least the rank of Deputy Director.

In addition, there shall be six executive directors, each representing a geopolitical zone, appointed on a rotational and alphabetical basis. The executive chairperson, vice chairperson, and any executive director must not be from the same state.

Additionally, the service must submit its annual report within three months of the end of the preceding year.

Debate

During the clause-by-clause consideration, the Bayelsa West Senator, Seriake Dickson, and his Sokoto South counterpart, Aminu Tambuwal, repeatedly raised observations on some sections of the bills.

For instance, Mr Dickson objected to the inclusion of state and local government VAT sharing formulas, arguing that states and LGs should determine their own revenue sharing methods.

The senate president, however, countered that VAT is a federal tax and must be centrally shared to maintain fiscal balance across tiers of government.

On his part, Mr Tambuwal proposed that VAT be collected based on the point of consumption rather than point of supply, a motion that received majority support and was adopted.

After the debate on the bills, the senate president put the passage to vote and the majority of the senators supported it through voice votes.

Mr Akpabio subsequently approved and passed the bills.

With two of the four tax reform bills passed, the Senate will reconvene on Thursday to deliberate on the remaining two. Once all bills are harmonised and approved, they will be transmitted to President Tinubu for his assent.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The Nigerian Chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI), on Tuesday, announced the removal of the name of the Executive Director, International Press Centre, Lanre Arogundade, from the watchlist of the State Security Service (SSS) after about 40 years.

IPI Nigeria President, Musikilu Mojeed, announced this in Abeokuta, Ogun State, at the 3rd Nigerian Media Leaders Summit convened by Journalism Clinic led by veteran journalist Taiwo Obe with media owners and top editors in attendance.

According to a statement on Tuesday by Tobi Soniyi, the Legal Adviser/Chairman, Advocacy Committee, IPI Nigeria, Mr Mojeed gave the update on Mr Arogundades watchlist status while relaying the outcome of the IPI Nigerias recent engagement with the Director-General of the SSS, Adeola Ajayi.

For about forty years, Mr Arogundade was subjected to persistent harassment and embarrassment, including brief detention by security operatives at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

IPI Nigeria says it welcomes the decision and commends the DSS for finally removing Mr. Arogundades name from the watchlist, the statement added.

The removal of Mr Arogundade from the Nigerian secret polices surveillance list fulfils a commitment made two years ago by former Director-General Yusuf Bichi, which had remained unkept until now.

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

In May 2022, Mr Bichi informed an IPI Nigeria delegation, which was on a visit to his office in Abuja, that Mr Arogundade would be immediately delisted from the watchlist.

But to show the assurance was not acted on, Mr Arogundade continued to be intercepted whenever he arrived in the country from subsequent foreign trips.

Mr Arogundades journey to the watchlist started during the military regime when he served as the president of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) between 1984 and 1985.

The decades-long watchlist demanded that Mr Arogundade should be quizzed whenever he returned from a foreign country.

His watchlist status first gained major attention when he was intercepted on 10 February 2022 and detained by officers of the SSS upon his arrival at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, from Banjul, The Gambia, where he went to train journalists on conflict reporting.

IPI Nigeria said Tuesday that the decision of the SSS, otherwise known as DSS (Department of State Service) followed sustained and intensive campaign by IPI Nigeria to get Mr Arogundades name removed from the watchlist.

The renewed campaign became necessary when Mr. Arogundades name was not removed despite previous assurance, it added.

Read IPI Nigerias full statement:

FINALLY DSS REMOVES LANRE AROGUNDADES NAME FROM ITS WATCHLIST

The Nigerian Chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI) today announced the removal of the name of the Executive Director, International Press Centre, Mr Lanre Arogundade, from the Department of State Securitys watchlist after about forty years.

IPI Nigeria President, Mr. Musikilu Mojeed announced this in Abeokuta, Ogun State at the 3rd Nigerian Media Leaders Summit convened by Journalism Clinic led by veteran Journalist Taiwo Obe with media owners and top editors in attendance.

Mr Mojeed said the Director-General of the DSS, Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, informed IPI Nigeria of the development during a recent engagement with the Service.

The DSS decision followed a sustained and intensive campaign by IPI Nigeria to get Mr Arogundades name removed from the watchlist. The renewed campaign became necessary when Mr. Arogundades name was not removed despite previous assurance.

For about forty years, Mr Arogundade was subjected to persistent harassment and embarrassment, including brief detention by security operatives at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

IPI Nigeria says it welcomes the decision and commends the DSS for finally removing Mr. Arogundades name from the watchlist.

Media executives present at the Abeokuta summit applauded the announcement while Mr. Arogundade, who was also among them, expressed his gratitude and that of his family to IPI Nigeria for the commendable effort.

Mr Arogundades journey to the watchlist started during the military regime when he served as the president of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) between 1984 and 1985.

Tobi Soniyi

Legal Adviser/Chairman, Advocacy Committee

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


ExxonMobil is raring to complete the process that will formalise a new $1.5 billion deepwater investment in Nigeria, and so has arranged for a final investment decision (FID) to be made at most by September.

The financial commitment to the project, to be developed in the Usan deepwater oilfield to the east of the Niger Delta, will run from the second quarter of the year through 2027 as oil majors operating in Nigeria continue to drift offshore after offloading onshore assets.

ExxonMobil, which completed sale of its onshore and shallow water business to Seplat for $1.3 billion last year, already has a 30 per cent interest in the field. It holds the stake through an affiliate, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria (Offshore East).

The company proposed FID in late Q3 2025 subject to final Field Development Plan approval as well as internal and Partner funding approvals, the Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission said in a Facebook post late Tuesday.

This is in addition to investment targeted at the accelerated development of the Owowo, Erha deepwater oil fields, amongst others, it added, citing talks by Shane Harris, Exxon Mobil Nigerias CEO, with Gbenga Komolafe the regulators chief.

Texas-based ExxonMobil is taking its chance at 10 strategic projects this year to help boost earnings by more than $3 billion in 2016 after Q1 net profit slid by 6.2 per cent year on year.

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

Seeking out exploration and drilling opportunities to expand income streams is now an urgency for the supermajor as the global oil industry reels from the turmoil of a volatile market grappling with a supply build-up and shocks from Donald Trumps tariff war.

Oil prices this month fell to a four-year low on aspirations by the OPEC+ to roll back production cuts, which will increase quotas for members.

The US Energy Information Administration revised its 2025 oil price forecast for Brent crude, the international pricing benchmark used by Nigeria, 3 per cent down to $65.9 on Wednesday, citing supply-side pressure.

ExxonMobils quest to increase production is at one with Nigerias aspiration to ramp up output to more than 2 million bpd this year after Africas biggest oil producer hit a ten-year low in 2023.

Concerted security and surveillance efforts directed at oil theft and destruction of pipeline infrastructures by vandals are paying off, helping production levels to pick up during last year.

That said, pockets of explosion and sabotage at oil installations were reported in recent times, setting the stage for President Bola Tinubus declaration of emergency rule on oil-rich Rivers State in March.

The relative increase in output is fuelling a refining push at home, especially at the level of small-scale processing, which saw at least five licences for different phases of development handed out to new modular refineries in the quarter to March.

Four state-owned and six licensed private refineries comprising Dangote Refinery, Duport Midstream Company, AIPCC Energy, Waltersmith, OPAC and Edo Refining and Petrochemicals Company currently account for the countrys current 1.1 million bpd refining capacity, Farouk Ahmed, head of Nigerias midstream and downstream regulator said in April.

Deepwater boom

Investments by oil majors in onshore and shallow water operations are drying up fast in Nigeria, where big guns like ExxonMobil, Eni, TotalEnergies, Equinor and lately Shell have divested stakes.

Local energy companies that are eager to scale are stepping in to fill the void.

The multinationals have blamed the exodus on a litany of litigations from communities, whose environment, livelihoods and health are at the receiving end of the devastating impact of oil & gas activities.

In several instances, they have had to part with substantial portions of their revenue in legal costs to compensate for the damage.

One recent example is the case of Shell which, apart from direct friction with Niger Delta communities over conflicting views on the shape exit should take, faced a backlash from environmental campaigners and the public.

Decommissioning procedures require that companies disassemble old infrastructures and undertake a clean-up and restoration of their operating environment, an obligation that would come at a high cost to Shell, which had operated in the area for 87 years.

A Financial Times report in December revealed that Shell gave authorities in Nigeria the precondition of approving its bid to sell its Niger Delta assets in exchange for new investments in Nigerias deep waters before the company was permitted to quit.

Last September, Vice President Kashim Shettima bared plans by ExxonMobil to commit $10 billion to the development of another deepwater project in Owo, Ondo State.

The attraction for international oil companies (IOCs) in deepwater has been the notion that offshore activities have relatively low risks.

Unlike onshore operations, the threats here, which tend to have remote effects on communities, are often overlooked.

Not proactively managing them could worsen climate change and set Nigeria back in its pledge to cut greenhouse gas emissions unconditionally by 20 per cent come 2030.

Last year, S&P Global observed in a study on the greenhouse gas emissions intensity of offshore Nigeria production for 2023 that the overall emissions intensity for the country is nearly double that of the UK and thrice that of offshore Brazil.

The largest 20 assets by production contributed to 90% of production and 80% of emissions, a pattern similar to that seen in offshore Brazil, the report stated.

Among the top-20 producing assets, IOCs operated 18, and seven of the eight deepwater assets were in this top-20 group, it further said.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


PREMIUM TIMES health reporter, Mariam Ileyemi, has been selected for the 2025 Africa Health Communications Fellowship (AHCF), a programme organised by fraycollege of Communications, South Africa.

Out of over 1,500 applicants, Ms Ileyemi was chosen as one of 30 fellows from six African countries: Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Malawi, Ethiopia, and Zambia, who will take part in a seven-month programme aimed at strengthening collaboration between health experts and journalists across the continent.

The fellowship, which runs from May to November 2025, features a tailored online course, monthly webinars, peer learning sessions, and an in-person conference in Johannesburg, South Africa. Fellows will also receive travel support and a grant to execute a collaborative health reporting project.

Im excited about the opportunity to learn and collaborate with other professionals, especially African health experts, Ms Ileyemi said.

More about fellowship

During the programmes introductory session on Tuesday, fraycolleges CEO, Mamaponya Motsai, said the selection process was rigorous, with applications judged based on impact, experience, and potential to drive change.

Ms Motsai noted that the chosen fellows bring a wealth of knowledge and are well-positioned to contribute to stronger health narratives across Africa.

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

This is a group of highly experienced professionals. Theres a wealth of knowledge here, and we want to build a space where fellows can learn from one another and collaborate on meaningful health communication projects across Africa, she said.

Fellows are expected to commit to the entire programme, including completing the online course before the Johannesburg conference, attending at least 80 per cent of webinars and calls, and delivering a collaborative reporting project by September.

Among the selected fellows are journalists, researchers, clinicians, and public health professionals. They include Lara Adejoro, Senior Correspondent at The Punch Newspaper in Nigeria; Angela Oketch, Health and Science Editor at Nation Media Group in Kenya; and Engelbert Luchuo, Head of International Programmes at the African Population and Health Research Centre (APHRC), Kenya.

Others are Maryann Muganda of The Standard Group; Emily Njuguna, a Paediatrician and Africa lead for maternal health at PATH; Chishiba Kabengele of the Centre for Family Health Research in Zambia; and Public Health Physician Mariam Oshodi from Lagos Primary Health Care Board, Nigeria.

Also selected are Anele Siswana, a clinical psychologist based in South Africa; Faith Lukonde, journalist and host at ZAMCOM Radio in Zambia; Ntlotleng Mabena, public health academic in South Africa; and Andrew Phiri, Head of Communications at Zambias Ministry of Health, among others.

About Mariam Ileyemi

Mariam Ileyemi is a health journalist and a graduate of Mass Communication from Lagos State University (LASU). She reports for PREMIUM TIMES on the Development Desk, where her stories often spotlight issues around infectious diseases, brain drain, budget allocation, and challenges within Nigerias primary healthcare system.

Her investigative and special reports have led to meaningful impact in communities, drawing attention to overlooked health and development challenges.

Ms Ileyemi is also a recent graduate of the Media-Epidemiology Infodemiology and Social and Behavioural Change (Media-EIS) programme, a joint initiative by USAIDs Breakthrough ACTION-Nigeria, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), and the African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET).

She is a recipient of several other fellowships and awards, and through her work, continues to advocate for stronger healthcare systems, especially for Nigerias most vulnerable communities.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The police in Anambra State, south-east Nigeria, say they have recovered another corpse in the state.

Tochukwu Ikenga, the police spokesperson in Anambra, announced this in a statement on Wednesday.

The discovery came barely 24 hours after the police recovered the body of a yet-to-be-identified pregnant woman found hanging from a tree along Uke-Ideani Road in Idemili North Local Government Area of the state.

Latest incident

Mr Okoye, a superintendent of police, said the latest body was found on Wednesday at a dumpsite in Iyiowa Odekpe, a community in Ogbaru Local Government Area of the state.

The police spokesperson said the body was suspected to be that of a victim of jungle justice in the area.

Preliminary findings revealed that the deceased with the gang members specialises in stealing car batteries.

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

It was alleged that the victim was caught and set ablaze in the early hours of today (Wednesday) by an angry mob after their criminal operations in the area, while other gang members escaped the scene, he said.

He said the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, has condemned the reported jungle justice by some residents of the state.

Mr Orutugu urged residents of the state to always exercise restraint by not taking the law into their hands and taking arrested crime suspects to the police for action.

This would afford the police the opportunity to conduct an appropriate investigation into the nefarious activities of the suspect and possibly arrest other gang members and bring them to justice in accordance with extant laws, he said.

Jungle justice

Jungle justice is a situation where individuals accused of offences like theft, blasphemy, shoplifting, and witchcraft are subjected to brutal assaults, torture, and sometimes summary executions.

At least one person in Africa is tortured or killed every day by enraged individuals who want to play the roles of judge, juror, and executioner, a 2021 study found.

The study also found that Cameroon and Nigeria have the highest rates of jungle justice killings in all of Africa.

In south-east Nigeria, Anambra and Abia States are said to have the highest number of jungle justice cases.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


Fresh crisis has hit the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State, as the High Court sitting in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, on Wednesday, granted an order stopping the conduct of the partys local government and state congresses.

The judge, Bamidele Omotoso, gave the order while ruling on Motion Exparte Number HAD/424M/2025 filed on 6 May by Afolabi Adedeji, a member of the party.

The suit was filed against the PDP, its acting National Chairman, Umar Damagun, National Organising Secretary, Umar Bature; Caretaker Chairman of the party in Ekiti Dtate, Dare Adeleke, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The local government Congress slated for Wednesday, 7 May, was already ongoing when the court stopped the exercise.

The court ordered all parties to the suit to maintain the status quo, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.

It also ordered that the PDP acting national chairman, national organising secretary and the state caretaker chairman be served the court order through their WhatsApp numbers.

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

Leave is hereby granted to the claimant/applicant to serve the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th defendants the Originating Process with its accompanying processes by substituted means, by pasting the afosesaid originating process on the wall of the 1st defendants office situate at Ajilosun Street, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State.

In addition, the claimant/applicant is granted leave to serve the 2nd, 3rd and 4th defendants vide their WhatsApp phone numbers 08047677070, 08035961850 and 08033242822 respectively.

All parties in this case are hereby ordered to maintain status quo pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice, which is hereby fixed for hearing on Wednesday, the 14th day of May, 2025, the court ruled.

Mr Adedeji, the plaintiff, had sought an order of interim injunction, retraining the defendants by themselves, privies, agents and successor-in-title/office, from accepting any list of persons who did not obtain election forms, participate in the elections and elected by the simple majority votes of the ward congress of the PDP in Ekiti State to act for the party, as delegates at any election of the party apart from those elected on 15 March.

He also sought an order of the court to mark the originating summons as concurrent, and to issue and serve, the originating summons, and other accompany originating processes, and all other processes in the case on the first, second, third and fifth defendants, whose address is outside the jurisdiction of the court and in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Congress successful despite court order

Despite the court order, the caretaker committee (CTC), Mr Adeleke, in a statement, expressed gratitude to the partys National Working Committee (NWC) for ensuring the successful conduct of the LG congress.

He also appreciated the support of the electoral panel, INEC, police, State Security Service (SSS), and other security agencies in ensuring a hitch-free congress.

I cannot express my appreciation enough for the marvellous job done by the committee led by the tireless and indefatigable Dr. Eddy Olafeso. Todays peaceful outing shows how organised and dedicated the committee was in preparing for this congress, he said.

The caretaker chairman further stated: We are thrilled that the congress commenced and concluded smoothly, without any hitches. It is on record that we started ahead of schedule at 8:00 a.m., and by 12 noon, we had concluded.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


He has run for president multiple times because he believes he can offer something better. That belief has never been proven false at the ballot in a free and fair contest. He remains a formidable political figure, and until others show they can beat him, they should stop demanding his exit. The country is at a critical juncture. The challenges we face are too grave for us to be playing games with leadership. Nigeria needs every serious contender on the field. We need debates. We need clear plans. We need courage. We need people who are not afraid to compete.

There is a new political obsession in Nigeria, and it is not hard to see through the smokescreen. It is the growing campaign to pressure Atiku Abubakar into stepping aside from future presidential elections. This pressure, subtle at times and overt in others, has become a convenient rallying cry for a lazy brand of political entitlement. Some are disguising this under the banner of generational change or regional balance, but when you strip away the rhetoric, what remains is fear. Plain, simple fear. The narrative being peddled is that Atiku should not run again because it is time for someone else. But that idea falls apart under the weight of any serious reasoning. Since when did democracy work by asking competent contenders to withdraw in order to clear the field for less capable aspirants? The very foundation of democracy rests on competition! You do not succeed by emotional blackmail. You step forward, you run, you debate, you engage, and you win, or you lose. That is the only way the legitimacy of leadership can be earned.

Let us face the hard truth. If Atiku Abubakar were as politically irrelevant as some want us to believe, no one would care about his intentions. There would be no need for press briefings, media campaigns, or whisper networks trying to drag him down before he even announces a bid. The fact that he is the subject of such intense scrutiny and strategic opposition is proof that he is still a major force. You do not attack what you do not fear. Some are now going as far as comparing politics to charity. They suggest that Atiku should step aside and leave it for others, as if power is a benevolent donation. This is insulting not just to him, but to the Nigerian electorate. Leadership is not a handout. It is not an inheritance. It is not a favour. It is something to be contested, to be fought for, to be earned.

The argument that Atiku has had his turn and should give way to others is both intellectually and morally bankrupt. It assumes that politics is about turns and not about competence. The truth is that many of those calling for him to leave the stage have failed to demonstrate the vision, infrastructure or national reach that is required to even be in contention. Instead, they peddle emotional narratives and hope that public fatigue or manufactured resentment will clear the way for their mediocrity.

But it gets worse. Some even resort to superstition. They say Atiku can never become president because Obasanjo will never allow it, or because some marabout has prophesied against him. When arguments are no longer grounded in reason and have to lean on mystical claims, it is a sign of desperation. Nigerias political future should not be determined by retired vendettas or spiritual folklore. We need a political culture that rewards performance and dismisses myths. Then there is the laughable strategy of comparing Atiku to a world-class athlete who is still breaking records but being told to step aside so that others can play. That is precisely what is happening. Instead of training, improving and earning their place, the new crop of politicians would rather ask the frontrunner to retire early. This is not how politics or life should work. If you cannot win on your own merits, you do not deserve the position.

The anti-Atiku campaign is not about national cohesion. It is not about generational change. It is not about regional fairness. It is about fear. His opponents fear his name, his structure, his persistence and his capacity. And rather than face him at the ballot, they want him eliminated through psychological and political warfare. Some will say this is all a distraction. That the opposition should be focused on finding unity and building consensus. But unity cannot be built on lies.

The attacks on Atiku may not be just about elections. They may be about shaping the psychological battlefield before 2027. The ruling party knows it is under pressure. The economy is faltering, insecurity persists and public confidence in the current administration is steadily eroding. Rather than focus on performance, it is launching a preemptive strike to weaken the strongest alternative. And unfortunately, some within the opposition are helping it do it. This is a dangerous game. What it does is not just undermine Atiku, but undermine the very essence of democratic competition. It tells others watching from the sidelines that it is not competence or public trust that gets you to the top. It is propaganda, sabotage and noise. This is the fastest way to discourage capable people from entering public service.

Let us also examine the regional politics driving this anti-Atiku sentiment. During the last presidential election, a particular narrative was weaponised in the South. It suggested that it would be unfair for a Northerner to succeed another Northerner. The idea was that power had to return to the South for the sake of equity. That sentiment was effective. It influenced voting patterns and limited Atikus appeal in several states. But here is the irony. When President Yaradua died, Goodluck Jonathan, a Southerner, completed his term and then contested and won again. There was no national revolt over rotation then. No one said the South should forfeit its turn. Why? Because the idea of zoning is a political convention, not a legal requirement. It is a tool of negotiation, not a sacred doctrine. When it suits political actors, they embrace it. When it does not, they discard it.

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 same people who shouted about rotation in 2023 are now silent in 2025 while a Southern president governs and eyes a second term. This proves that zoning is not about fairness. It is about power and convenience. If it were about equity, the outcry would continue regardless of which party is in power. So, let us stop pretending. The anti-Atiku campaign is not about national cohesion. It is not about generational change. It is not about regional fairness. It is about fear. His opponents fear his name, his structure, his persistence and his capacity. And rather than face him at the ballot, they want him eliminated through psychological and political warfare. Some will say this is all a distraction. That the opposition should be focused on finding unity and building consensus. But unity cannot be built on lies.

Let this be said clearly and without apology. The movement to push Atiku out is not based on logic. It is based on insecurity. And the country must not reward it. Let the man run. If you can beat him, do it at the ballot. If you cannot, then step aside. Power is not gifted. It is earned. And anyone afraid to compete has no business asking for the crown. So let Atiku run. And let the people decide.

You cannot unify by excluding your most popular figures. If unity requires the sacrifice of your strongest asset, then it is not unity. It is surrender. The opposition must wake up. There is no political logic in weakening your best contender so that others can feel included. That is not how elections are won. If the goal is to remove a failing incumbent, then you rally behind strength, not sentiment. If anyone wants to challenge Atiku, they should do so with ideas, with vision, with national outreach, with voter persuasion. Not with emotional appeals or moral blackmail. Let them build their own structure. Let them prove their credibility. Let them earn it.

Atiku Abubakar is not above criticism. He has his flaws. But those flaws should be debated openly, not weaponised dishonestly. He has run for president multiple times because he believes he can offer something better. That belief has never been proven false at the ballot in a free and fair contest. He remains a formidable political figure, and until others show they can beat him, they should stop demanding his exit. The country is at a critical juncture. The challenges we face are too grave for us to be playing games with leadership. Nigeria needs every serious contender on the field. We need debates. We need clear plans. We need courage. We need people who are not afraid to compete. That is why Atiku should not step aside. Not because he is entitled. But because he has earned the right to run. Because Nigeria needs options. Because democracy demands choice. And because surrendering to political blackmail would set a dangerous precedent for every future leader who dares to be ambitious.

Let this be said clearly and without apology. The movement to push Atiku out is not based on logic. It is based on insecurity. And the country must not reward it. Let the man run. If you can beat him, do it at the ballot. If you cannot, then step aside. Power is not gifted. It is earned. And anyone afraid to compete has no business asking for the crown. So let Atiku run. And let the people decide.

Mohammed Dahiru Aminu ([email protected]) wrote from Madrid, Spain.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The World Bank has commended the Government of Jigawa State for its leadership, transparency, and effective coordination in implementing the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project.

The commendation was delivered during a courtesy visit by the ACReSAL Task Team Leader, Dr Joy Agene, and her delegation to Governor Umar Namadi at the Government House in Dutse.

In her remarks, Dr Agene praised Governor Namadis administration for its dedication and integrity, describing it as unparalleled by many states across the federation.

Your Excellency, you are one of the most efficient, committed, transparent, and honest governors we have engaged with. The people of Jigawa State are indeed fortunate to have you, she stated.

Highlighting Jigawa States exemplary performance, she noted that during a recent evaluation of World Bank-supported projects, Jigawa emerged as one of the top-performing states under the ACReSAL initiative.

Jigawa State stands tall whenever we meet with other states. The multi-sectoral coordination in the state is exemplary and serves as a model for others.

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

Your drive and commitment to the grassroots clearly reflect the core objectives of ACReSAL, and we have no doubt that communities in Jigawa State are well positioned to benefit significantly from the gains of the project.

Dr Agene explained that the teams visit formed part of a due diligence mission to assess ongoing projects, identify strengths and areas requiring improvement, and offer recommendations to enhance project implementation.

The focus of this mission is to observe ongoing works, assess progress, identify areas needing strengthening, and propose recommendations that can help streamline and expedite implementation on the ground.

Even before this mission began, it was clear that Jigawa State had excelled in terms of monitoring and oversight, having already accomplished much of the groundwork.

In his response, Governor Namadi warmly welcomed the delegation and expressed his appreciation for the recognition given to him and the state.

I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude. The ACReSAL projects have positively impacted the lives of the people of Jigawa State. These impacts are visible in areas such as water supply, erosion control, environmental degradation, and combating desert encroachment.

He further acknowledged Dr Agenes dedication and adherence to global best practices, describing her as a principled, honest, and devoted development partner.

I want to assure you that Jigawa State remains a committed partner that will ensure the sustainability and long-term success of this project.

The ACReSAL project is a World Bank-funded initiative aimed at tackling climate and environmental challenges in Nigerias semi-arid regions. It promotes sustainable land and water management while enhancing livelihoods at the community level.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The Zamfara State Government has signed a strategic agreement with Oracle Corporation to invest in youth development, workforce capacity building, and the digital economy under Oracle Universitys Skills Development Initiative (SDI).

The agreement was signed on Tuesday, 29 April 2025, at Oracles office in London, United Kingdom.

A statement issued by the spokesperson to the Governor of Zamfara State, Sulaiman Bala Idris, stated that the partnership would foster collaboration between the Zamfara Information and Technology Development Agency (ZITDA) and Oracle.

The Zamfara State delegation to the signing ceremony was led by Governor Dauda Lawal and included the Secretary to the State Government, two Special Advisers, and the Executive Secretary of ZITDA. Also in attendance was Siobhan Wilson, Oracle UK Country Leader and Senior Vice President, EMEA.

According to the statement:

Zamfara State Government has signed a strategic agreement with Oracle to drive digital skills development across the state. Facilitated through the Zamfara Information and Technology Development Agency (ZITDA), the collaboration will leverage the expertise and learning platforms of both Oracle Academy and Oracle University in advancing digital transformation in Zamfara.

The partnership underscores a joint commitment to education and a long-term investment in the future of Zamfaras youth, workforce, and digital ecosystem.

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

Educational Access and Curriculum Integration

Oracle Academy, Oracles global philanthropic educational programme, provides a comprehensive portfolio of teaching and learning resources in technology, including curriculum content and software access. These resources will now be made available to validated higher education institutions across Zamfara State.

Through the support of ZITDA, efforts will be made to integrate Oracle Academys offerings into higher education curricula across the state. This initiative aims to empower educators with essential tools and resources to prepare students for hands-on technology experience and professional certifications, ultimately nurturing a new generation of digitally skilled leaders.

Expanding Learning Opportunities

Oracle Universitys Skills Development Initiative (SDI), a global programme offering access to premium learning and certification at no cost to eligible learners, will significantly expand digital learning opportunities in Zamfara.

Through a co-branded Learning Portal in collaboration with ZITDA, eligible participants will have free access to digital learning paths and foundational certifications. The platform will include over 200 hours of professional training in high-demand fields such as Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and APEX Development.

Trademark Acknowledgement

Oracle, Java, MySQL, and NetSuite are registered trademarks of Oracle Corporation. Notably, NetSuite was the first cloud company, marking the beginning of the cloud computing era.

Governor Lawals Remarks

Speaking at the signing event, Governor Dauda Lawal reaffirmed that the collaboration with Oracle is a vital step in his administrations vision to transform Zamfara into a centre of innovation, learning, and digital excellence.

He said:

On behalf of the Government and the people of Zamfara State, I extend my sincere appreciation to Oracle for believing in our vision and for partnering with us on this transformative journey.

What we are doing today transcends technology  it is about creating opportunities, inspiring hope, and unlocking the future. By investing in digital education and innovation, we are offering real alternatives to poverty, unemployment, and despair.

I sincerely thank Oracle for standing with us  for believing in partnership, shared purpose, and collective ambition. Today, we are not merely signing an agreement; we are making a promise-

A promise that every child in Zamfara will have a fair opportunity to dream, to learn, and to succeed.

A promise that technology will be our bridge to a stronger, more inclusive economy. And a promise that Zamfara will not merely participate in the digital revolution  we will lead it.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


PRESS RELEASE IN RESPECT OF THE MATTER BETWEEN ECOBANK PLC AND KAM INDUSTRIES NIGERIA LIMITED

Various publications in both the electronic and print have in the past few days been devoted to reporting the matter between Ecobank Plc and Kam Industries Nigeria Limited, some quite inaccurately. We have also been inundated with various telephone calls from home and abroad inquiring about what has happened.

These publications have understandably evoked concerns and worries that need to be addressed to sustain the confidence of our Financiers, Suppliers, Buyers and well-wishers worldwide.

The matter between Ecobank Plc and Kam Industries Nigeria Limited is a simple tripartite (Kam/Ecobank/CBN) Foreign Exchange Forward Contract transaction of $12 million, in which Kam Industries is required to deposit the naira equivalent into CBN (Apex Bank)

account at an agreed exchange rate for the future delivery of the foreign currency.

The Apex Bank has honoured the delivery of $2.5 million, leaving a balance of $9.5 million yet to be delivered.

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 amount, which Ecobank is asking Kam Industries to pay, is the fund with the Apex Bank, which, from the information available in the public space, formed part of the $2.4 billion foreign exchange transaction undergoing the scrutiny of the Apex Bank.

With due deference and without prejudice to the principle of sub-judice, this press release is to inform and reassure our financiers, numerous suppliers and buyers, home and abroad, of the good health of Kam Industries.

We hereby hasten to assure all that no bank is taking over your beloved company and your company is not in distress of any sort.

The court action taken by Ecobank Plc is a normal dispute resolution step that should not create any unnecessary Panic.

We enjoin everyone to please remain calm while this matter is being resolved

Signed

Management

7th May,2025

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


Kano South Senator Kawu Sumaila has defected from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Mr Sumaila, the chairman of the Senate Committee on Petroleum (upstream), announced his defection in a letter read by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, during the plenary on Wednesday.

In the letter, the lawmaker explained that his decision to quit the NNPP was a result of the unresolved leadership crisis in the party which has led to litigations and internal divisions.

Mr Sumaila had earlier announced his resignation from the NNPP on 24 April, without disclosing the party he wanted to join. Many had speculated that he would join the opposition APC in Kano because of his closeness to APC leaders at the national and state levels. However, his decision to join the APC has now been made public.

Reasons for leaving NNPP

The senator noted that the major reason for his defection was the ongoing legal disputes and factions within the NNPP.

My decision to bid goodbye to the NNPP is anchored on compelling and undeniable developments within the party, which have rendered the party severely divided and dysfunctional.

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

Over the past months, I have observed a growing number of litigations that have practically torn the party apart and left its structure fractured. All of which clearly centred around issues of party disunity, functional leadership, and the legitimacy of its operations, he said in the letter.

Mr Sumaila argued that the NNPPs internal cohesion had collapsed to the point where multiple factions now operate under different logos.

Put in doubt, these legal battles have not only eroded internal cohesion but have created parallel and conflicting authorities within the party. A further manifestation of this division is the existence of multiple factions, each with its own distinct party logo. This unprecedented scenario underscores the depth of the division and reflects a clear and public splintering of the partys identity in both form and substance, as the party is divided in form and substance.

He argued that these conditions met the constitutional threshold under Section 68(1)(g) of the Nigerian Constitution, which allows lawmakers to switch parties without forfeiting their seats if their original party is divided.

If any of these circumstances, which in my respectful opinion, meet the threshold of a division in the political party, as contemplated under the provision to Section 68, Subsection 1G of the Constitution, I have come to the firm conclusion that continuing my membership with the NNPP would no longer serve the national interest, nor the interest of my constituents, which I represent.

Therefore, in the spirit of democratic accountability and in line with my constitutional right, I have moved to the All Progressives Congress, a national platform, an international platform, which I believe will better support my legislative responsibilities and the aspirations of the good people of my senatorial district. I kindly call this notification to be read on the floor of the Senate for necessary record and legislative action.

After reading the letter, Mr Akpabio congratulated the senator for his decision to join the ruling APC.

Afterwards, Mr Sumaila exchanged pleasantries with other APC senators before he was led to his new seat in the Majority section of the chamber.

There are currently 107 senators in the Senate following the death of former Anambra South Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, who died last July, and the departure of Monday Okpebholo, who vacated the Edo Central seat after being elected governor of Edo State last September.

With Mr Sumailas defection, the number of APC senators has increased to 65. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) currently has 33 senators. The Labour Party has five senators. The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has two senators. NNPP has one senator and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) also has one.

Kawu Sumailas political fallout

Mr Sumaila actually left the APC before the 2023 general elections due to internal party disagreements. He joined the NNPP, on whose platform he was elected to the Senate.

READ ALSO: Zamfara govt partners Oracle to boost digital skills development

However, in February, the NNPPs national leadership suspended the senator and other federal lawmakers from Kano, accusing them of anti-party activities. The lawmakers rejected the suspension with the argument that they belong to a different NNPP faction.

His fallout with the NNPP deepened over policy disagreements with Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, particularly regarding the controversial reinstatement of deposed Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, and the repeal of the 2019 Emirate Council Law, which dismantled the five emirates created by former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje.

Mr Sumaila and other lawmakers from Kano South publicly opposed these moves with the argument that they did not reflect the will or interest of their constituents.

Since then, Mr Sumaila and some of his NNPP colleagues from the zone have distanced themselves from the activities of the NNPP-led state government.

The NNPP is Nigerias fourth-largest political party based on representation in federal and state parliaments. However, Kano is the partys main base and the only state it currently governs.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


A Nigerian professor kidnapped by gunmen in the countrys south-east has been freed.

The professor, Herbert Batta, a lecturer at the faculty of Communication and Media Studies in the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, was on his way back from a trip when he was abducted in Imo State on Tuesday.

Mr Batta, a professor of Science and Health Communications, is currently the head of the Information and Media Studies Department in the university.

The details of his release are still sketchy and it could not be ascertained if he was freed by security operatives or or after the payment of ransom.

The Kidnap

A colleague of the victim who sent a voice note to another colleague said they had passed the Sam Mbakwe Airport heading toward Okpala when the incident occurred.

The colleague said the incident occurred between 6 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., adding that there was sufficient daylight.

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

There were some vehicles ahead of us. We now heard gunshots. I thought the police were having a confrontation, but on a closer look, they look like Fulani persons in appearance.

The driver, the lecturer said, tried to reverse, aiming at getting back to the airport axis, only to meet another set of kidnappers who lay in ambush around there.

We were facing them while the ones behind were coming towards us. Someone was shot, and I felt the man may have died because of the way he was lying there, almost lifeless.

Our driver was taken, Professor Batta was taken, the lecturer said, adding that others were also taken randomly.

There were so much gunshots that I feared for stray bullets, the lecturer added.

Police react

The police spokesperson in the state, Henry Okoye, confirmed the incident to PREMIUM TIMES on Wednesday morning but said he was yet to be officially briefed to ascertain if the professor is among those abducted.

Im aware of the kidnapping incident that occurred along Aba Road  Ngor-Okpala, after the airport.

We have initiated action on it. We are doing everything possible to see how we can rescue the victims, but I dont know if this professor is involved, said Mr Okoye, a deputy superintendent of police.

Hes been released  another colleague

Blossom Okorie, the registrar of the University of Uyo, where the kidnapped professor works, did not respond to calls for comments.

But another professor, Charles Obot, from the same faculty as the victim, told our reporter that the victim has been released.

I dont know whether to say they were eventually released or rescued from the Fulani herdsmen kidnappers. Ive spoken with him. He mandated me to disseminate the information that he was trying to do some usual documentation at a police station in Owerri.

Hes been released. Thats the better news, Mr Obot told PREMIUM TIMES on Wednesday.

Mr Obot has also shared the news of his colleagues release on Facebook.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


Governor Alex Otti of Abia State says his administration wants to buy the part of Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) that supplies electricity to Umuahia, the Abia State capital.

Mr Otti explained that the decision was to provide an uninterrupted power supply to the Umuahia axis of the state, where Geometric Power does not cover.

The governor spoke on Monday at the Geometric Power Station in Aba during an event in the facility, according to a Monday statement from his spokesperson, Ukoha Njoku.

The event, which was a reception, was organised by the management of Geometric Power.

Nigerias former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, performed the commissioning ceremony of the companys new 2 X 15 MVA, Ogbor Hill Sub-Station during the event.

Why we plan to purchase EEDC  Governor

Before now, the EEDC had been the power distribution company in charge of electricity supply in south-east Nigeria, including Abia State.

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

But on 26 February 2024, the Geometric Power Plant located in Aba, Abia State, was commissioned by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

After reaching an agreement with the plant, the EEDC allocated nine of the states 17 council areas to Geometric while retaining power supply in the remaining eight, including Umuahia.

Owned by Nigerias former Minister of Power, Barth Nnaji, the 188 megawatt Geometric Power Plant has since generated power for nine of the 17 local government areas in Abia.

The nine local government areas are Aba North, Aba South, Osisioma Ngwa, Obingwa, Ugwunagbo, Isialangwa North, Isialangwa South, Ukwa East and Ukwa South  all in the Abia Axis of the state.

Aba Power Limited Electric is a subsidiary of Geometric responsible for distributing the power generated by the plant.

Speaking at the event, Mr Otti explained that the need to buy the Umuahia branch of the EEDC was to ensure an improved power supply to the capital citys residents, given that they are not within areas allocated to the Geometric Power Plant.

The governor said he had directed the commissioner for power and public utilities to hold discussions with the management of the Geometric Power Plant over the wheeling of its excess power to Umuahia.

We are in the process of buying EEDC and restructuring Umuahia. By tomorrow (Tuesday, 6 May), we will be making an offer to EEDC.

We have done all the due diligence, we have done all the evaluations, and by tomorrow, we will be making an offer to EEDC, he said.

He expressed hope that with the 11 existing substations of the Geometric Power Plant and the nine council areas connected, about 80 megawatts of excess power would be available for the Umuahia area.

Ordinarily, what would happen is for that excess power to be injected into the national grid, but then, with the deregulation, our discussion with Geometric Power is about wheeling that 80 or 88 megawatts or any excess power into the Umuahia ring-fence.

So, once we are in control, that excess power will go to Umuahia, Mr Otti stated.

The governor lauded Mr Obasanjo for some courageous actions he took as president, including isolating Aba as a ringed-fence long before the federal government granted states authority to regulate electric power.

He also commended the Chief Executive Officer of the Geometric Power Plant, Mr Nnaji, a professor, for investing in Abia State.

Include remaining LGAs, Obasanjo begs Nnaji

Also speaking, the former president, Mr Obasanjo, appealed to Mr Nnaji to include the remaining eight local government areas in the state that were not yet covered by the Geometric Power Plant.

The former president hailed Mr Otti for his style of leadership in the South-eastern state.

Describing Aba as the centre of industrialisation, which deserves steady power, Mr Obasanjo congratulated Messrs Otti and Nnaji as well as the entire Abia people on the success of the project so far.

Geometric Power Plant has gulped $800 million

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairperson and CEO of Geometric Power Plant, Mr Nnaji, said the Aba Integrated Power Project had gulped about over $800 million so far.

He praised Messrs Otti and Obasanjo for their roles, which were instrumental to the realisation of the power project.

The former minister said Mr Otti deserves commendation for his support for the project during his time as the Executive Director of First Bank and later, Diamond Bank, now defunct.

He stressed that Mr Otti, as a governor, has created an enabling environment for the power project to thrive.

The event was attended by top government functionaries, some local government chairpersons and state lawmakers.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


NEW YORK, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A formal complaint submitted to the United Nations (UN) by Hindus Advancing Human Rights (HAHRI), an initiative of HinduPACT, gains momentum after Pakistan sponsored the April 22nd Pahalgam massacre of 25 Hindus. These horrific killings are a continuation of the drip-drip genocide of Hindus alluded to in this complaint.

HinduPACT logo

Pakistan is currently facing a complaint lodged by one of its citizens with the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) concerning ongoing human rights violations. Sixty distinguished signatories hailing from various backgroundsHindus, Christians, Sikhs, Jews, Muslims, and ex-Muslims from nations including India, Pakistan, the United States, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and Kenyahave leveled accusations against Pakistan of committing acts of genocide. The signatories comprise organizations devoted to protecting Hindu rights, respected academics, prominent authors, and former officials from the UN, World Bank, and the US Department of State.

The extensively evidenced complaint alleges that Pakistan has violated Article 2 of the Genocide Convention of 1948, with the genocide being committed by every level of Pakistan's state machinery and its fanatical citizens. The physical aspect of the genocide is evident through the dramatic decrease in the population of Hindus, Christians, and Sikhs in Pakistan from 23 percent in 1947 to just three percent today.

The complaint documents genocidal intent: UN reports and Pakistani experts connect minority persecution to an Islamist ideology rooted in Pakistan's founding "hatred" and a quest for a "purer Islamic state," despite a 1950 pledge to protect them. Thousands of Hindu and Christian women and girls are targeted, kidnapped, forcibly converted, and sexually exploited. School curricula teach Hindu and Christian hate and Islamist supremacism; fake allegations of 'blasphemy' terrorize and lead to the imprisonment of minorities; temples and churches are attacked and desecrated; social apartheid exists by 'reserving' menial jobs for minorities, and discrimination persists even after natural disasters. Both UN Special Rapporteurs and Pakistan's government acknowledge these systemic, Islamist-justified abuses against minorities.

Key Demands:

The complaint requests that the UNHRC refer the matter to the UN Security Council to establish an international tribunal that should:

Identify and prosecute all perpetrators responsible for the genocide of Pakistani Hindus, Christians, and Sikhs.

Promptly implement measures to ensure the complete cessation of human rights violations. Mandate the UN Human Rights Council and UN Women to extend comprehensive support to the tribunal's endeavors, which encompass facilitating fact-finding missions aimed at preventing any occurrences of fraudulent and coercive conversions of Hindu, Christian, and Sikh women to Islam.

Instruct the government of Pakistan to confiscate all textbooks that promote hatred towards its minority populations.

to confiscate all textbooks that promote hatred towards its minority populations. Establish a mechanism for monetary compensation for the victims of genocide, financed by the Government of Pakistan .

Rahul Sur, Executive Director of HAHRI, and Deepti Mahajan, Co-Convenor of HinduPACT, coordinated this complaint. The organizational signatories include the Hindu American Foundation (HAF), Coalition of Hindus in North America (CoHNA), Insight UK, Americans4Hindus, certain members affiliated with the Clarity Coalition, and the AHA Foundation. For a comprehensive list of supporters, visit hahri.org.

Media Contact:

Ajay Shah

858 442-5668

[email protected]

SOURCE Hindus Advancing Human Rights (HAHRI), HinduPACT
-Company is advancing a new class of immunomodulators for autoimmune and inflammatory disorders with high unmet medical need-

- ABO21009's unique mechanism of action depletes pathogenic T and B cells, induces expansion of Tregs for lasting efficacy, and preserves overall immunity-

GOSSELIES, Belgium and NANTES, France, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- AbolerIS Pharma ("AbolerIS"), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company committed to improving the lives of people suffering from autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, announced today that the first cohort of participants has been dosed with ABO21009, a humanized anti-CD45RC monoclonal antibody, in a first-in-human Phase 1 study for the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). ABO21009 was designed to address the unmet medical need for patients with RA who have not responded well to currently available therapeutic options, including anti-TNF therapeutics.

"AbolerIS is at the forefront of innovation in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases with our approach in targeting CD45RC and we are thrilled to transition to a clinical-stage company," said Dr. Ann Meulemans, Ph.D., CEO of AbolerIS. "ABO21009 is the first antibody of its class to enter clinical trials in Europe and we believe it has great potential as a disease-modifying treatment for RA due to its multi-pronged mechanism of action. This year we are focused on the determination of safety, target engagement and dose range finding in patients suffering from RA. Pending clinical proof-of-concept in RA with ABO21009, we'll advance ABO21009 in the clinic for additional indications like Sjogren`s Disease, Graft-versus-Host Disease, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, and Autoimmune Polyendocrinopathy-Candidiasis-Ectodermal Dystrophy as we continue to grow our company."

The Phase 1 study is a first-in-human, adaptive design, randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled dose escalation study with single ascending dosing in healthy volunteers (part I), single ascending dosing in patients with RA (part II) and multiple ascending dosing in patients with RA (part III) to evaluate safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of ABO21009. In part I, 24 patients are planned to be enrolled who will receive one of four single doses of ABO21009 and will be followed up for up to 10 weeks; the Phase 1 study has been initiated in the Netherlands, and is currently enrolling and dosing participants.

Studies have shown that the C domain of specific CD45 protein isoforms is a target of significant global interest given its unique role in modulating the immune system. The CD45 protein is a transmembrane protein found on the surface of all nucleated hematopoietic cells, and is involved in the regulation of signaling pathways that control various immune cell functions.

"Despite the recent progress in the management of RA, it remains one of the most difficult to treat autoimmune disorders, as many patients do not respond to the currently available therapies or they experience unwanted side effects," added Prof. Dirk Elewaut, MD and Chairman of the SAB AbolerIS. "I am very excited to bring the first anti-CD45RC agent to my patients, with the hope of providing long-term remission and improved quality of life."

More information about the ABO21009 clinical trial can be found at AbolerIS EU Clinical Trials.

"Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, progressive autoimmune disease that significantly impacts patients' quality of life and physical health, and we believe that ABO21009 has the potential to disrupt the field and bring innovation to patients," commented Ronald van Brempt, MD, Chief Medical Officer of AbolerIS. "Further, I am very proud of our team who have executed well to open the Phase 1 study so quickly in Europe, and we look forward to expanding the study into additional indications."

About ABO21009

ABO21009 is the Company's lead monoclonal antibody program stemming from its novel immunomodulatory approach to treating autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. ABO21009 is effective through a multi-pronged mechanism of action, selectively depleting CD45RC-positive cells that are actively sustaining the autoimmune response in Rheumatoid Arthritis. These CD45RC-positive cells are present in the T-, B-, and NK-cell compartments of the adaptive immune system. By selectively depleting these cells, the cells driving the autoimmune disease are taken out of the immune cell population.

ABO21009 also spares regulatory T cells, which can unleash their full potential and suppress ongoing and future autoimmune activity in the adaptive immune system. Treatment with ABO21009 may enable a long-lasting and durable remission in RA, which will improve the patient experience and lessen the burden of side effects from currently available therapeutic options. In May 2025, AbolerIS began patient dosing under an authorized Clinical Trial Application (CTA) for a first-in-human Phase 1 study of ABO21009 in RA. Pending clinical proof-of-concept in RA, the Company intends to broaden its development into other autoimmune diseases.

About AbolerIS Pharma

AbolerIS Pharma is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company committed to improving the lives of patients suffering from autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. The Company is advancing potentially best-in-class and first-in-class immunomodulatory antibodies that target CD45RC, a key regulator of the immune system. AbolerIS' lead program, ABO21009, is designed to demonstrate broad efficacy in multiple autoimmune and inflammatory disorders with large unmet medical needs including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and organ transplantation.

At AbolerIS, we envision a future where patients can enjoy long-term remission and improved quality of life through therapies that are effective and safe. The Company is based in Gosselies, Belgium and Nantes, France, and is backed by a syndicate of experienced investors, which includes Criteria Bio Ventures, Sound Bioventures, Newton Biocapital, WE, Sambrinvest, SFPIM and Sham Innovation Sante.

For more information, please visit www.aboleris-pharma.com or follow us on LinkedIn to learn more about our transformative approach to immunotherapies.

Company Contact:

Dr. Ann Meulemans, CEO Aboleris

+32479900357

[email protected]

Media & Investor Contact

Amy Conrad

Juniper Point

[email protected]

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2671455/AbolerIS_Logo.jpg
DELRAY BEACH, Fla., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The global aircraft fuel systems market will grow to USD 11.63 billion by 2030 from USD 10.17 billion in 2025 at a CAGR of 2.7% during the forecast period according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The aircraft fuel systems market growth is propelled by increasing worldwide demand for air travel, higher aircraft production, and technology advances to enhance fuel efficiency and minimize emissions. Defense modernization programs in large economies also drive investment in cutting-edge fuel management. The transition towards sustainable aviation fuels and hybrid-electric power plants is developing new demands for innovative fuel feed, storage, and inerting technologies. Furthermore, commercial aircraft aftermarket growth, with fleets expanding and aged aircraft requiring retrofits, drives the demand for improved fuel system parts.

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=239047228

Browse in-depth TOC on "Aircraft Fuel Systems Market"

290  Tables

62  Figures

299  Pages

Aircraft Fuel Systems Market Report Scope:

Report Coverage Details Market Revenue in 2025 $ 10.17 billion Estimated Value by 2030 $ 11.63 billion Growth Rate Poised to grow at a CAGR of 2.7% Market Size Available for 20202030 Forecast Period 20252030 Forecast Units Value (USD Million/Billion) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered By System, Technology, Engine, Point of Sale, Aircraft & Region Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of World Key Market Challenge Overcoming safety challenges in fuel systems for SAF and hydrogen integration Key Market Opportunities Emerging demand for predictive maintenance through smart fuel monitoring systems Key Market Drivers Technological advancements in fuel management systems



Based on aircraft type, the military aviation segment is expected to be the fastest-growing market in the aircraft fuel systems market.

Military aviation is expected to be the fastest-growing market segment due to the worldwide increase in defense modernization and strategic fleet expansion. Governments across the globe are investing significant capital in the modernization of their militaries, which is reflected in higher procurement rates for advanced fighter aircraft, transport aircraft, tankers, helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles. These platforms need extremely advanced and rugged fuel systems to perform in extreme environments, sustain long-range missions, and provide quick refueling capability. Increasing emphasis on aerial refueling, stealth missions, and unmanned vehicles also accelerates the demand for advanced and robust fuel management technologies.

Based on technology, the pump feed system segment is projected to lead the aircraft fuel systems market during the forecast period.

Based on technology, the pump feed system segment is projected to lead the aircraft fuel systems market during the forecast period due to its crucial function of supplying a constant and guaranteed fuel supply to a wide range of aircraft types. Pump feed systems are required to provide the fuel pressure and flow rates needed for engine operation under varying operating conditions, including high-altitude and high-speed flight. With newer aircraft designs focusing more on greater efficiency, safety, and increased range, there has been a growing need for pump feed technologies. The development and use of intelligent pumps and electrically powered fuel systems in next-generation aircraft have also supported the growth of this segment.

Inquiry Before Buying: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Enquiry_Before_BuyingNew.asp?id=239047228

North America will lead the aircraft fuel systems market during the estimated year.

North America is projected to dominate the aircraft fuel systems industry in the estimated year with its robust aerospace production base, defense expenditure, and ongoing investment in aviation technology. The region has key players like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Raytheon Technologies, which are actively driving demand for advanced fuel systems in commercial and military applications. The US government's initiative to replace its defense aviation fleet with modern aircraft, including next-generation fighters, bombers, aerial refueling tankers, and unmanned aerial vehicles, is also consolidating the market for advanced fuel management solutions.

Parker Hannifin Corporation (US), RTX (US), Eaton Corporation (Ireland), Safran (France), and Woodward Inc. are the major key players in the aircraft fuel systems companies. These companies have strong distribution networks across regions like North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and the Rest of the World.

Get 10% Free Customization on this Report: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestCustomizationNew.asp?id=239047228

Browse Adjacent Market: Aerospace and Defence Market Research Reports &Consulting

Related Reports:

Aircraft Pumps Market by Type (Hydraulic pumps, Fuel pumps, Lube and scavenge pumps, Water and wastewater pumps, Air conditioning & cooling pumps), Pressure, End Use (OEM, Aftermarket), Technology, Aircraft Type, and Region  Global Forecast to 2028

Aerospace Valves Market by Aircraft Type, End Use (OEM, Aftermarket), Type, Application (Fuel System, Hydraulic System, Environment Control System, Pneumatic System, Lubrication System, Water & Wastewater System) Material, Region (2021-2026)

Aircraft Sensors Market by Sensor Type (Pressure, Proximity, Optical, Force, Radar, Temperature, Motion), Application (Propulsion, Aerostructures & Flight Control, Flight Deck), Connectivity, End Use, Aircraft Type and Region - Global Forecast to 2030

About MarketsandMarkets

MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's Best Management Consulting Firms by Forbes, as per their recent report.

MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. With the widest lens on emerging technologies, we are proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients across the globe.

Today, 80% of Fortune 2000 companies rely on MarketsandMarkets, and 90 of the top 100 companies in each sector trust us to accelerate their revenue growth. With a global clientele of over 13,000 organizations, we help businesses thrive in a disruptive ecosystem.

The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion in new revenue streams that are replacing existing ones within this decade. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines  TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing.

Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we collaborate with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies to keep them future-ready. Our insights and strategies are powered by industry experts, cutting-edge AI, and our Market Intelligence Cloud, KnowledgeStore, which integrates research and provides ecosystem-wide visibility into revenue shifts.

To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Contact:

Mr. Rohan Salgarkar

MarketsandMarkets INC.

1615 South Congress Ave.

Suite 103, Delray Beach, FL 33445

USA: +1-888-600-6441

Email: [email protected]

Visit Our Web Site: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/

Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/aircraft-fuel-systems-market.asp

Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/aircraft-fuel-systems.asp

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1868219/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg

SOURCE MarketsandMarkets
LYSAKER, Norway, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Aker BP delivered another strong operational quarter, supported by high production efficiency, low costs, and low emissions. The project portfolio remains on track to enable production growth from 2027, while two new discoveries have further strengthened our future development pipeline. With solid cash flow and a robust balance sheet, the company is well positioned to navigate market volatility and continue delivering resilient dividends to shareholders.

Highlights

Strong operational performance : Oil and gas production reached 441 (449) thousand barrels of oil equivalent per day (mboepd) during the quarter. The full year guidance remains unchanged at 390-420 mboepd.

: Oil and gas production reached 441 (449) thousand barrels of oil equivalent per day (mboepd) during the quarter. The full year guidance remains unchanged at 390-420 mboepd. Low cost : Production cost amounted to USD 6.5 (5.7) per barrel.

: Production cost amounted to (5.7) per barrel. Low emissions : Greenhouse gas emission intensity was 2.8 (2.5) kg CO2e per boe (scope 1 & 2), ranking among the lowest in the global oil and gas sector.

: Greenhouse gas emission intensity was 2.8 (2.5) kg CO2e per boe (scope 1 & 2), ranking among the lowest in the global oil and gas sector. Projects on track : Field development projects progressing according to plan, with overall capex estimates unchanged.

: Field development projects progressing according to plan, with overall capex estimates unchanged. Exploration success : Resource base strengthened with two new discoveries.

: Resource base strengthened with two new discoveries. Strong financial results : Total income of USD 3.2 (3.1) billion, net profit of USD 316 (562) million and cash flow from operations of USD 2.1 (1.1) billion for the quarter.

: Total income of (3.1) billion, net profit of (562) million and cash flow from operations of (1.1) billion for the quarter. Resilient dividends: Dividends of USD 0.63 per share paid in the quarter  on track to deliver USD 2.52 per share for the full year.

Comment from Karl Johnny Hersvik, CEO of Aker BP

"Aker BP delivered strong operational performance this quarter, underscoring our commitment to safe, reliable, and low-emission operations. Efficient production and disciplined cost management remain key pillars of our success, and we once again achieved an outstanding production efficiency of 97 percent across our portfolio.

We are making excellent progress across our project portfolio and remain firmly on track to deliver substantial production growth from 2027. In parallel, we continue to build our long-term value creation potential, with two new discoveries this quarter further enhancing our portfolio of future development opportunities.

Our financial position remains very strong, supported by robust underlying cash flow and a resilient balance sheet. This gives us the flexibility to navigate market fluctuations, while continuing our disciplined approach to capital distribution. We remain fully committed to delivering value to our shareholders through stable and predictable dividends."

Webcast presentation

The presentation will be webcasted today at 08:30 CEST on www.akerbp.com, hosted by CEO Karl Johnny Hersvik and CFO David Tnne. The presentation will be followed by an online Q&A session.

Attachments

Aker BP 2025-Q1 Report.pdf

Aker BP 2025-Q1 Presentation.pdf

Investor contacts:

Kjetil Bakken, Head of IR, tel.: +47 918 89 889

Carl Christian Bachke, IR Officer, tel.: +47 909 80 848

Martin Seland Simensen, IR Officer, tel.: +47 416 92 087

Media contacts:

Tore Langballe, VP Communications, tel.: +47 907 77 841

Ole-Johan Faret, Press Spokesman, tel.: +47 402 24 217

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/aker-bp-asa/r/aker-bp-reports-first-quarter-2025-results,c4145854

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Public/1629/4145854/b962b4ba7c0d41c0.pdf Aker BP 2025-Q1 Presentation https://mb.cision.com/Public/1629/4145854/8d72f7cb4880b032.pdf Aker BP 2025-Q1 Report

SOURCE Aker BP ASA
VANCOUVER, BC, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - Aris Mining Corporation (Aris Mining or the Company) (TSX: ARIS) (NYSE-A: ARMN) announces its financial and operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2025 (Q1 2025), with a strong start to the year marked by record gold prices, solid production performance, and continued investments in growth. Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $0.16 is the highest full quarter result since Aris Mining was formed in September 2022. All amounts are expressed in U.S. dollars unless otherwise indicated.

Figure 1: Strong AISC Margin Growth ($ million)  Segovia (CNW Group/Aris Mining Corporation) Figure 2: Total AISC and Realized Gold Price Trends ($/oz)  Segovia (CNW Group/Aris Mining Corporation) Figure 3: Total and Net Leverage Ratios4 (CNW Group/Aris Mining Corporation)

Neil Woodyer, CEO, commented "Aris Mining had a strong start to 2025, driven by solid operational execution, higher gold prices, and continued progress on our growth initiatives. At Segovia, we maintained production and high margins while advancing the plant expansion, which remains on track for commissioning in June. At Marmato, we are making steady progress on the Lower Mine development, with construction spend ramping up and plant capacity now targeting 5,000 tonnes per day. At our Toroparu Project in Guyana, we have launched a new study to update the development plan, and we look forward to demonstrating the potential of this project."

Q1 2025 Financial Performance

Gold revenue of $154.1 million , an increase of 47% over Q1 2024 and 4% over Q4 2024.

, an increase of 47% over Q1 2024 and 4% over Q4 2024. Adjusted EBITDA 1 of $66.6 million for Q1, and $201.3 million on a trailing 12-month basis, up 134% for the quarter from Q1 2024 and up 20% from Q4 2024.

up 134% for the quarter from Q1 2024 and up 20% from Q4 2024. Net earnings 2 of $2.4 million , compared to a loss of $0.7 million in Q1 2024.

, compared to a loss of in Q1 2024. Adjusted net earnings of $27.2 million or $0.16 /share, up from $0.04 /share in Q1 2024 and $0.14 /share in Q4 2024. Record full quarterly adjusted EPS since Aris Mining was formed in September 2022 .

up from /share in Q1 2024 and /share in Q4 2024. Record full quarterly adjusted EPS since Aris Mining was formed in . The Company ended the quarter with a cash balance of $240 million and net debt3 of $250 million , implying a net leverage ratio of 1.2x.



Q1 2025 Q4 2024 Q1 2024 Gold production (ounces) 54,763 57,364 50,767 Segovia  Owner Mining ($/ounce sold) $1,482 $1,386 $1,553 Segovia  CMP AISC Margin 41 % 39 % 36 % EBITDA $39.7M $66.6M $22.4M Adjusted EBITDA $66.6M $55.6M $28.4M Adjusted EBITDA, last 12 months $201.3M $163.1M $147.8M Net earnings (loss)2 $2.4M or $0.01/share $21.7M or $0.13/share ($0.7M) or ($0.01)/share Adjusted earnings $27.2M or $0.16/share $24.7M or $0.14/share $5.4M or $0.04/share Adjusted earnings, last 12 months $77.7M or $0.46/share $55.9M or $0.34/share $45.0M or $0.34/share

Q1 2025 Operational Performance

Gold production totaled 54,763 oz , an increase of 8% from 50,767 oz in Q1 2024 and accounting for 22% of the mid-point of the FY 2025 production guidance range of 230 koz  275 koz. Production rates are expected to progressively increase in H2 2025 following commissioning of the Segovia plant expansion in June 2025 .

, an increase of 8% from 50,767 oz in Q1 2024 and accounting for 22% of the mid-point of the FY 2025 production guidance range of 230 koz  275 koz. Production rates are expected to progressively increase in H2 2025 following commissioning of the Segovia plant expansion in . Marmato Upper Mine produced 7,214 oz , a 23% increase over Q4 2024.

, a 23% increase over Q4 2024. Segovia Operations produced 47,549 oz , supported by gold grades of 9.4 g/t and gold recoveries of 96.1%. AISC margin increased to $60.9 million , a 114% increase over Q1 2024. Owner Mining AISC increased to $1,482 /oz (Q4 2024: $1,386 ; Q1 2024: $1,553 ), towards the lower end of the Company's full-year 2025 guidance range of $1,450 to $1,600 . Contract Mining Partner (CMP) sourced gold delivered a 41% AISC sales margin , outperforming the top end of the Company's full-year 2025 guidance range of 35% to 40%. Total AISC increased to $1,570 /oz (Q4 2024: $1,485 ; Q1 2024: $1,434 ), driven primarily by gold prices, which increased costs for purchased material from CMPs, as well as royalties and social contributions.

, supported by gold grades of 9.4 g/t and gold recoveries of 96.1%.

Total Segovia Operating Information Q1 2025 Q4 2024 Q1 2024

Average realized gold price ($/ounce sold) $2,855 $2,642 $2,062

Tonnes milled (t) 167,150 167,649 154,425

Average tonnes milled per day (tpd) 1,966 1,949 1,817

Average gold grade processed (g/t) 9.37 9.84 9.42

Gold produced (ounces) 47,549 51,477 44,908

Gold sold (ounces) 47,390 50,409 45,288

AISC margin  $M 60.9 58.3 28.5









Segovia Operating Information by Segment Q1 2025 Q4 2024 Q1 2024

Owner Mining







Gold sold (ounces) 26,963 28,149 22,445

Cash costs  ($/ounce sold) $1,123 $1,042 $1,191

AISC  ($/ounce sold) $1,482 $1,386 $1,553

AISC margin ($M) 37.0 35.3 11.4











CMPs







Gold sold (ounces) 20,427 22,260 22,843

Cash costs  ($/ounce sold) $1,431 $1,399 $1,133

AISC  ($/ounce sold) $1,687 $1,610 $1,316

AISC sales margin (%) 41 % 39 % 36 %

AISC margin ($M) 23.9 23.0 17.1

Total: Owner Mining & CMP AISC Margin ($M) 60.9 58.3 28.5



* Aris Mining operates its own mines and contracts with community-based mining partners, referred to as Contract Mining Partners (CMPs), to increase total gold production. Some partners work within Aris Mining's infrastructure, while others manage their own mining operations on Aris Mining's titles using their own infrastructure. In addition, Aris Mining purchases high grade mill feed from third-party contractors operating off-title, which further optimizes production and increases operating margins.

Growth and Expansion Updates

The Company invested $43.0 million in growth and expansion initiatives during the quarter, including: $29.7 million toward the Marmato Lower Mine development; and $6.4 million at Segovia to support plant expansion, underground development and exploration.

in growth and expansion initiatives during the quarter, including: In Q1 2025, our operations generated $40.0 million in cash flow after sustaining capital and income tax, enabling us to internally-fund the majority of our strategic growth and expansion investments.

in cash flow after sustaining capital and income tax, enabling us to internally-fund the majority of our strategic growth and expansion investments. The Segovia expansion to 3,000 tonnes per day (tpd) is nearing completion, with the new ball mill to be installed in May and commissioning expected in June 2025 .

to 3,000 tonnes per day (tpd) is nearing completion, with the new ball mill to be installed in May and commissioning expected in . The Marmato Lower Mine construction is progressing well, with processing plant capacity increased from 4,000 tpd to a planned 5,000 tpd: decline development underway with 323 metres completed to the end of April 2025 ; earthworks completed for the main substation platform, and continued earthworks for the process plant platform; and continued arrival of equipment and materials on site, including tailings filters, cyclones and sump pumps.

is progressing well, with processing plant capacity increased from 4,000 tpd to a planned 5,000 tpd: Soto Norte Project : the Company continues to advance the new Pre-Feasibility Study, with completion expected in Q3 2025.

: the Company continues to advance the new Pre-Feasibility Study, with completion expected in Q3 2025. Toroparu Project: a new Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA), prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101, has been commissioned to evaluate updated development options for the Toroparu project. Since updating the mineral resource estimate for Toroparu in March 2023 , Aris Mining has also completed infrastructure optimization studies, strengthening the foundation for the development plan. Completion of the PEA is expected in Q3 2025.

Capital Structure Update

During Q1 2025 and through early May, Aris Mining continued to see strong participation in the exercise of its in-the-money TSX-listed ARIS.WT.A warrants, which expire on July 29, 2025. Year-to-date, the Company has received over $19.4M in proceeds from these warrant exercises, further strengthening the balance sheet and supporting growth initiatives at Segovia and Marmato.

As of May 6, 2025, Aris Mining has approximately 178.1 million common shares issued and outstanding, with 48.0 million ARIS.WT.A warrants remaining outstanding, which if fully exercised would result in the issuance of 24.0 million new Aris Mining shares and additional proceeds to the Company of C$132 million (or $96 million).

Following the expiry of the ARIS.WT.A warrants on July 29, 2025, the Company will have no remaining convertible securities outstanding, other than stock options issued under its stock option plan.

Since issuing its new $450 million senior unsecured bonds in October 2024, Aris Mining has steadily reduced both its total and net leverage ratios. As of March 31,2025, total leverage was 2.4x3 and net leverage was 1.2x3.

Endnotes

1 All references to adjusted earnings, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted (net) earnings, growth and expansion expenditures, cash flow after sustaining capital and income tax, cash costs and AISC are non-GAAP financial measures in this document. These measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under GAAP, and therefore may not be comparable to other issuers. Refer to the Non-GAAP Measures section in this document for a reconciliation of these measures to the most directly comparable financial measure disclosed in the Company's financial statements.

2 Net earnings represents net earnings attributable to owners of the company, as presented in the annual and interim financial statements for the relevant period.

3 Net debt is calculated as outstanding principal for the Senior Notes and the Gold-linked Notes, less cash.

4 Total and Net Leverage ratios are calculated by dividing total debt and net debt, respectively, by Adjusted EBITDA on a trailing 12-month basis.

Q1 2025 Conference Call Details

Management will host a conference call on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. ET / 6:00 a.m. PT / 2:00 p.m. BST / 3:00 p.m. CEST to discuss the results.

Participants may gain expedited access to the conference call by registering at Diamond Pass Registration (dpregister.com). Once registered, call in details will be displayed on screen which can be used to bypass the operator and avoid the call queue. Registration will remain open until the end of the live conference call.

Webcast

Conference Call

Toll-free North America : +1-833-821-0197

: +1-833-821-0197 International: +1-647-846-2328

Audio Recording

After the call, an audio recording will be available via telephone until the end of day on May 15, 2025 .

. Toll-free in the US and Canada : +1-855-669-9658

: +1-855-669-9658 International: +1-412-317-0088; and using the access code: 3305587

A replay of the event will be archived at Events & Presentations - Aris Mining Corporation.

Aris Mining's Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 and related MD&A are available on SEDAR+, in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) and in the Financials section of Aris Mining's website here. Hard copies of the financial statements are available free of charge upon written request to [email protected].

About Aris Mining

Founded in September 2022, Aris Mining was established with a vision to build a leading Latin America-focused gold mining company. Our strategy blends current production and cashflow generation with transformational growth driven by expansions of our operating assets, exploration and development projects. Aris Mining is listed on the TSX (ARIS) and the NYSE-A (ARMN) and is led by an experienced team with a track record of value creation, operational excellence, financial discipline and good corporate governance in the gold mining industry.

Aris Mining operates two underground gold mines in Colombia: the Segovia Operations and the Marmato Upper Mine, which together produced 210,955 ounces of gold in 2024. With expansions underway, Aris Mining is targeting an annual production rate of more than 500,000 ounces of gold following the ramp-up of the Segovia mill expansion, expected during the second half of 2025, and the new Marmato Mine, which is expected to start ramping up in H2 2026. In addition, Aris Mining operates the 51% owned Soto Norte joint venture, where studies are underway on a new, smaller scale development plan, with results expected by mid-2025. In Guyana, Aris Mining owns the Toroparu gold/copper project, where a new Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) has been commissioned.

Colombia is rich in high-grade gold deposits and Aris Mining is actively pursuing partnerships with the Country's dynamic small-scale mining sector. With these partnerships, we enable safe, legal, and environmentally responsible operations that benefit both local communities and the industry.

Aris Mining intends to pursue acquisitions and other growth opportunities to unlock value through scale and diversification.

Additional information on Aris Mining can be found at www.aris-mining.com, www.sedarplus.ca, and on www.sec.gov.

Cautionary Language

Non-GAAP Measures

EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted (net) earnings, cash cost, total leverage, net leverage and AISC are non-GAAP financial measures and non-GAAP ratios. These financial measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS or by Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) in the United States, and therefore may not be comparable to other issuers. For full details on these measures and ratios refer to the "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" sections of the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 and years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 (MD&As). The MD&As are incorporated by reference into this news release and are available at www.aris-mining.com, on the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and in its filings with the SEC at www.sec.gov.

We have presented total leverage and net leverage as non-GAAP ratios in this press release. Total leverage is calculated as the outstanding principal of the Company's debt instruments divided by trailing twelve-month adjusted EBITDA, and net leverage is calculated as net debt divided by trailing twelve-month adjusted EBITDA. We believe these ratios provide useful information to analysts, investors, and other stakeholders in assessing the Company's leverage and evaluating our balance sheet.

The tables below reconcile the non-GAAP financial measures contained in this news release for the current and comparative periods to the most directly comparable financial measure disclosed in the Company's interim financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, and Company's annual financial statements for the three months and years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.

Quarterly cash-flow summary



Three months ended, ($000's) Q1 2025 Q4 2024 Gold revenue $154,142 $148,381





Total cash cost1 (72,730) (73,688) Royalties (6,359) (5,748) Social contributions (4,334) (4,228) Sustaining capital (6,589) (6,357) Lease payments on sustaining capital (480) (567) All in sustaining cost (AISC)1 (90,492) (90,588)





AISC margin 63,650 57,793





Taxes paid2 (5,121) (25,152) General and administration expense2 (4,106) (8,084) Decrease (increase) in VAT receivable (11,761) 18,906 Other changes in working capital (3,415) 8,650 Impact of foreign exchange losses on cash balances2 768 (2,699) After-tax adjusted sustaining margin3 40,015 49,414





Expansion and growth capital expenditure1



Marmato Lower Mine (29,661) (18,998) Segovia Operations (6,368) (21,041) Marmato Upper Mine  (5,369) Toroparu Project (2,411) (1,719) PSN (4,566) (3,604) Change in accrued capital expenditures and other additions (5,938) 9,204 Total expansion and growth capital (48,944) (41,527)





Financing and other costs4



Proceeds from warrant and option exercises2 5,197 1,427 Principal repayment of Gold Notes2 (3,941) (3,695) Repayment of 2026 Senior Notes 2  (305,157) Net proceeds from 2029 Senior Notes2  441,294 Precious metal stream deposit received2  40,016 Capitalized interest paid2 (5,031) (3,959) Interest (paid) received - net2  (5,582) Total financing and other costs (3,775) 164,344 Net change in cash2 (12,704) 172,231 Opening cash balance at beginning of period2 252,535 80,304 Closing cash balance at end of period2 239,831 252,535

1. Refer to the Non-GAAP Financial Measures section for full details on cash costs ($ per oz sold), AISC ($ per oz sold), and additions to mining interests split by nature and site which are on an accrual basis. 2. As presented in the Financial Statements and notes for the respective periods. 3. After-tax adjusted sustaining margin is defined as operating cash flow adjusted for the receipt of the WPMI milestone payment, sustaining capital expenditures and sustaining lease payments. 4. Financing and other costs are defined as financing activities as presented in the Financial Statements adjusted for capitalized interest paid and receipt of the WPMI milestone payment.

Cash costs per ounce

Reconciliation of total cash costs by business unit at Segovia and Marmato to the cash costs as disclosed above.



Three months ended Mar 31, 2025 Three months ended Dec 31, 2024 ($000s except per ounce amounts) Segovia Marmato Total Segovia Marmato Total Total gold sold (ounces) 47,390 6,891 54,281 50,409 5,925 56,334 Cost of sales1 67,091 15,384 82,475 68,078 15,111 83,189 Less: materials and supplies inventory provision    (965) (225) (1,190) Less: royalties1 (4,519) (1,840) (6,359) (4,342) (1,406) (5,748) Add: by-product revenue1 (3,073) (313) (3,386) (2,308) (255) (2,563) Total cash costs 59,499 13,231 72,730 60,463 13,225 73,688 Total cash costs ($ per oz gold sold) $1,256



$1,199



Total cash costs including royalties 64,018



64,805



Total cash costs including royalties ($ per oz gold sold) $1,351



$1,286









Three months ended Mar 31, 2024 ($000s except per ounce amounts)





Segovia Marmato Total Total gold sold (ounces)





45,288 5,756 51,044 Cost of sales1





57,949 13,384 71,333 Less: materials and supplies inventory provision





   Less: royalties1





(3,008) (1,084) (4,092) Add: by-product revenue1





(2,318) (112) (2,430) Total cash costs





52,623 12,188 64,811 Total cash costs ($ per oz gold sold)





$1,162



Total cash costs including royalties





55,631



Total cash costs including royalties ($ per oz gold sold)





$1,228





1 As presented in the Annual and Interim Financial Statements and notes thereto for the respective periods.

Cash costs per ounce  Business Units (Segovia)





Three months ended Mar 31, 2025 Three months ended Dec 31 2024 ($000s except per ounce amounts)

Owner CMPs Total Owner CMPs Total Total gold sold (ounces)

26,963 20,427 47,390 28,149 22,260 50,409 Cost of sales1

34,799 32,292 67,091 34,518 33,560 68,078 Less: materials and supplies inventory provision

   (717) (248) (965) Less: royalties1

(2,783) (1,736) (4,519) (2,754) (1,588) (4,342) Add: by-product revenue1

(1,748) (1,325) (3,073) (1,727) (581) (2,308) Total cash costs

30,268 29,231 59,499 29,320 31,143 60,463 Total cash costs ($ per oz gold sold)

$1,123 $1,431 $1,256 $1,042 $1,399 $1,199





Three months ended Mar 31, 2024 ($000s except per ounce amounts)







Owner CMPs Total Total gold sold (ounces)







22,445 22,843 45,288 Cost of sales1







30,085 27,864 57,949 Less: royalties1







(1,677) (1,331) (3,008) Add: by-product revenue1







(1,663) (655) (2,318) Total cash costs







26,745 25,878 52,623 Total cash costs ($ per oz gold sold)







$1,192 $1,133 $1,162

1 As presented in the Annual and Interim Financial Statements and notes thereto for the respective periods.

All-in sustaining costs (AISC)

Reconciliation of total AISC by business unit at Segovia and Marmato to the AISC as disclosed above.



Three months ended Mar 31, 2025 Three months ended Dec 31, 2024 ($000s except per ounce amounts) Segovia Marmato Total Segovia Marmato Total Total gold sold (ounces) 47,390 6,891 54,281 50,409 5,925 56,334 Total cash costs 59,499 13,231 72,730 60,463 13,225 73,688 Add: royalties1 4,519 1,840 6,359 4,342 1,406 5,748 Add: social programs1 4,061 273 4,334 4,063 165 4,228 Add: sustaining capital expenditures 5,856 733 6,589 5,426 931 6,357 Add: lease payments on sustaining capital 480  480 567  567 Total AISC 74,415 16,077 90,492 74,861 15,727 90,588 Total AISC ($ per oz gold sold) $1,570



$1,485





















Three months ended Mar 31, 2024 ($000s except per ounce amounts)





Segovia Marmato Total Total gold sold (ounces)





45,288 5,756 51,044 Total cash costs





52,623 12,188 64,811 Add: royalties1





3,008 1,084 4,092 Add: social programs1





2,289 1,166 3,455 Add: sustaining capital expenditures





6,496 824 7,320 Add: lease payments on sustaining capital





506  506 Total AISC





64,922 15,262 80,184 Total AISC ($ per oz gold sold)





$1,434



















1 As presented in the Annual and Interim Financial Statements and notes thereto for the respective periods.

All-in sustaining costs (AISC)  Segovia by Business Unit



Three months ended Mar 31, 2025 Three months ended Dec 31, 2024 ($000s except per ounce amounts) Owner CMPs Total Owner CMPs Total Total gold sold (ounces) 26,963 20,427 47,390 28,149 22,260 50,409 Total cash costs 30,268 29,231 59,499 29,320 31,143 60,463 Add: royalties1 2,783 1,736 4,519 2,754 1,588 4,342 Add: social programs1 2,501 1,560 4,061 2,558 1,505 4,063 Add: sustaining capital expenditures 3,917 1,939 5,856 3,819 1,607 5,426 Add: lease payments on sustaining capital 480  480 567  567 Total AISC 39,949 34,466 74,415 39,018 35,843 74,861 Total AISC ($ per oz gold sold) $1,482 $1,687 $1,570 $1,386 $1,610 $1,485















Three months ended Sep 30, 2024 Three months ended June 30, 2024 ($000s except per ounce amounts) Owner CMPs Total Owner CMPs Total Total gold sold (ounces) 22,952 25,107 48,059 20,183 23,183 43,366 Total cash costs 24,820 35,579 60,399 24,660 31,682 56,342 Add: royalties1 1,999 1,507 3,506 1,720 1,358 3,078 Add: social programs1 2,449 1,845 4,294 1,185 935 2,120 Add: sustaining capital expenditures 3,640 1,783 5,423 4,677 1,547 6,224 Add: lease payments on sustaining capital 389  389 364  364 Total AISC 33,297 40,714 74,011 32,606 35,522 68,128 Total AISC ($ per oz gold sold) $1,451 $1,622 $1,540 $1,616 $1,532 $1,571





















Three months ended Mar 31, 2024 ($000s except per ounce amounts)





Owner CMPs Total Total gold sold (ounces)





22,445 22,843 45,288 Total cash costs





26,745 25,878 52,623 Add: royalties1





1,677 1,331 3,008 Add: social programs1





1,276 1,013 2,289 Add: sustaining capital expenditures





4,659 1,837 6,496 Add: lease payments on sustaining capital





506  506 Total AISC





34,863 30,059 64,922 Total AISC ($ per oz gold sold)





$1,553 $1,316 $1,434

1 as presented in the annual and interim financial statements and notes thereto for the respective periods.

Additions to mineral interests, plant and equipment

($'000) Mar 31, 2025 Dec 31, 2024 Mar 31, 2024 Sustaining capital





Segovia Operations 5,856 5,426 6,496 Marmato Upper Mine 733 931 824 Total 6,589 6,357 7,320 Non-sustaining capital





Marmato Lower Mine 29,661 18,998 14,865 Segovia Operations 6,368 21,041 11,023 Soto Norte Project (PSN) 4,566 3,604  Marmato Upper Mine  5,369 2,278 Toroparu Project 2,411 1,719 1,939 Juby Project 4 34 3 Total 43,010 50,765 30,108 Corporate Assets    Additions to mining interest, plant and equipment1 49,599 57,122 37,428

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) and adjusted EBITDA





Three months ended, ($000s)

Mar 31, 2025 Dec 31, 2024 Sept 30, 2024 June 30, 2024 Mar 31, 2024 Earnings (loss) before tax1

21,220 37,513 13,603 17,904 10,310 Add back:











Depreciation and depletion1

10,734 9,530 9,019 8,082 7,519 Finance income1

(2,336) (1,606) (1,351) (1,691) (2,246) Interest and accretion1

10,037 21,165 6,493 6,496 6,803 EBITDA

39,655 66,602 27,764 30,791 22,386 Add back:











Share-based compensation1

3,784 (483) 2,533 1,373 1,842 (Income) loss from equity accounting in investee1

14 14 17 2,301 551 (Gain) loss on financial instruments1

16,628 (6,561) 12,842 6,144 3,742 Other (income) expense1

535 1,116 (428) 2,681  Foreign exchange (gain) loss1

5,997 (5,113) 311 (7,211) (108) Adjusted EBITDA

66,613 55,575 43,039 36,079 28,413

1.As presented in the Annual and Interim Financial Statements and notes for the respective periods.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) and adjusted EBITDA

($000s)

Mar 31, 2024 Dec 31, 2023 Sept 30, 2023 June 30, 2023 Earnings (loss) before tax1

10,310 7,963 26,156 18,925 Add back:









Depreciation and depletion1

7,519 7,535 10,938 8,825 Finance income1

(2,246) (2,580) (3,672) (2,358) Interest and accretion1

6,803 6,772 6,757 6,746 EBITDA

22,386 19,690 40,179 32,138 Add back:









Share-based compensation1

1,842 2,977 528 459 Revaluation of investments (Denarius/Aris)

 536  10,023 (Income) loss from equity accounting in investee1

551 (3,667) (1,062) 1,428 (Gain) loss on financial instruments1

3,742 13,429 (374) (11,756) Other (income) expense1

 (1,442) 21 35 Foreign exchange (gain) loss1

(108) 6,685 2,285 7,237 Adjusted EBITDA

28,413 38,208 41,577 39,564

1.As presented in the Annual and Interim Financial Statements and notes for the respective periods.

Adjusted net earnings and adjusted net earnings per share









Three months ended,

($000s except shares amount) Mar 31, 2025 Dec 31, 2024 Sept 30, 2024 June 30, 2024 Mar 31, 2024 Basic weighted average shares outstanding 171,622,649 170,900,890 169,873,924 151,474,859 138,381,653 Net earnings (loss)1 2,368 21,687 (2,074) 5,713 (744) Add back:









Share-based compensation1 3,784 (483) 2,533 1,373 1,842 (Income) loss from equity accounting in investee1 14 14 17 2,301 551 (Gain) loss on financial instruments1 16,628 (6,561) 12,842 6,144 3,742 Other (income) expense1 535 1,116 (428) 2,681  Loss on extinguishment of Senior Notes  11,463    Foreign exchange (gain) loss1 5,997 (5,113) 311 (7,211) (108) Income tax effect on adjustments (2,099) 2,536 (109) 1,738 78 Adjusted net (loss) / earnings 27,227 24,659 13,092 12,739 5,361 Per share  basic ($/share) 0.16 0.14 0.08 0.08 0.04























1.As presented in the Annual and Interim Financial Statements and notes for the respective periods.

Adjusted net earnings and adjusted net earnings per share

($000s except shares amount)

Mar 31, 2024 Dec 31, 2023 Sept 30, 2023 June 30, 2023 Basic weighted average shares outstanding

138,381,653 137,313,095 137,192,545 136,229,686 Net earnings (loss)1

(744) (5,944) 13,833 9,899 Add back:









Share-based compensation1

1,842 2,977 528 459 Revaluation of investments (Denarius/Aris)

 536  10,023 (Income) loss from equity accounting in investee1

551 (3,667) (1,062) 1,428 (Gain) loss on financial instruments1

3,742 13,429 (374) (11,756) Other (income) expense1

 (1,442) 21 35 Loss on extinguishment of Senior Notes

    Foreign exchange (gain) loss1

(108) 6,685 2,285 7,237 Income tax effect on adjustments

78 (2,221) (796) (2,453) Adjusted net (loss) / earnings

5,361 10,353 14,435 14,872 Per share  basic ($/share)

0.04 0.08 0.11 0.11

1. As presented in the Annual and Interim Financial Statements and notes for the respective periods.

Qualified Person and Technical Information

Pamela De Mark, P.Geo., Senior Vice President Geology and Exploration of Aris Mining, is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101), and has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" or forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements relating to the Company's ability to deliver on its 2025 objectives, the completion timeline and expected benefit from the Sevogia expansion, the completion timeline and expected benefit from the Marmato Lower Mine construction, the expected completion date of the new pre-feasibility study for the Soto Norte Project, the completion date of the new preliminary economic assessment for the Toroparu Project, benefits to the Company from the exercise of its outstanding warrants and statements included in the "About Aris Mining" section of this news release relating to the Segovia Operations, Marmato Mine, Soto Norte Project and Toroparu Project are forward-looking. Generally, the forward-looking information and forward looking statements can 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", "will continue" or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". The material factors or assumptions used to develop forward looking information or statements are disclosed throughout this news release.

Forward looking information and forward looking statements, while based on management's best estimates and assumptions, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Aris Mining to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information or forward looking statements, including but not limited to those factors discussed in the section entitled "Risk Factors" in Aris Mining's annual information form dated March 12, 2025 which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and in the Company's filings with the SEC at www.sec.gov.

Although Aris Mining has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information and 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 information or statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information or statements. The Company has and continues to disclose in its Management's Discussion and Analysis and other publicly filed documents, changes to material factors or assumptions underlying the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements and to the validity of the information, in the period the changes occur. The forward-looking statements and forward-looking information are made as of the date hereof and Aris Mining disclaims any obligation to update any such factors or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking statements or forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information.

SOURCE Aris Mining Corporation
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., May 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Arman Gabaee Real Estate Scholarship is now open for applications, offering undergraduate students across the United States an opportunity to gain financial support as they pursue careers in the dynamic and technology-driven real estate industry. The scholarship reflects Arman Gabaee's enduring commitment to fostering academic growth, industry innovation, and socially responsible development.

The Arman Gabaee Real Estate Scholarship supports undergraduate students at accredited U.S. colleges and universities who exhibit strong academic performance and a keen interest in real estate. Applicants must submit a 500750 word essay on the evolving role of technology in modern real estate development, analyzing its impact and proposing innovative strategies to enhance sustainability, efficiency, and community engagement. This scholarship reflects Arman Gabaee's dedication to fostering future leaders who merge technology, ethics, and visionary design to shape the future of the built environment.

Arman Gabaee, a principal figure at the Charles Company, has been a transformative force in Southern California's real estate development landscape for more than two decades. With a career marked by ambitious commercial projects that integrate both economic vitality and community enrichment, Gabaee continues to advocate for forward-thinking, socially responsible development practices. His work exemplifies the importance of combining business acumen with a commitment to long-term societal benefit.

The Arman Gabaee Real Estate Scholarship rewards a student who demonstrates strong industry insight, creative problem-solving, and ethical responsibility through a compelling essay. Open until January 15, 2026, this $1,000 award recognizes promising individuals committed to shaping the future of real estate and urban development, with the winner announced on February 15, 2026.

While the scholarship is administered from Beverly Hills, California, eligibility is not limited to any geographic region. It is open to undergraduate students nationwide who meet the outlined criteria.

Arman Gabaee's vision for this scholarship stems from his own belief in long-term, sustainable impact through education and industry support. His dedication to community revitalization and mentorship highlights his ongoing contributions both within and beyond real estate. Arman Gabaee continues to support future professionals by offering meaningful academic opportunities that inspire industry evolution.

For full scholarship details and to apply, students are encouraged to visit the official scholarship website:

 https://armangabaeescholarship.com

 https://armangabaeescholarship.com/arman-gabaee-scholarship

SOURCE Arman Gabaee Real Estate Scholarship
EBANX now enables global businesses to offer UPI Autopay, simplifying cross-border transactions and expanding access to India's growing digital market

SINGAPORE, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- India is rapidly emerging as one of the most important global markets, with its economy set to become the third-largest in the world by 2030, according to the IMF . To address this growing market, EBANX, a global technology company specializing in payment services for emerging markets, has integrated UPI Autopay  the recurring payments feature of India's instant payments system, Unified Payments Interface (UPI)  into its cross-border payments platform. Operating in India in a partnership with YES BANX, a leading private sector bank in the country, EBANX is at the forefront once again, enabling cross-border e-commerce merchants to offer UPI's recurring feature for their clients in India  something that was previously only possible for local digital commerce players

With the integration of this new feature, EBANX's global e-commerce merchants in industries like SaaS, streaming, and other subscription-based businesses can now easily offer recurring payments to their Indian customers through an alternative payment method (APM) like UPI, tapping into a massive, tech-savvy audience eager for global digital services and seamless, digital payment options.

India's consumer class is projected to add nearly 300 million people by 2030, surpassing even China, per the World Data Lab . By that time, one in every five consumers under 30 will be from India, making it an essential market for global companies seeking to expand internationally. With EBANX, e-commerce merchants can seamlessly integrate both UPI one-time and recurring, as well as card payments for cross-border transactions, simplifying the complexities of operating in India's dynamic digital landscape.

"India is a unique market with incredible opportunities and a burgeoning digital consumer segment," said Rashmi Sapute, Country Director of India at EBANX. "UPI Autopay offers a groundbreaking way for global businesses to tap into the growing base of digital consumers in the country. We are proud to be at the forefront of this offering, simplifying cross-border payments and enabling our merchants to seize India's vibrant digital economy," she added.

With a payment stack that includes UPI Autopay, EBANX is already empowering merchants to offer services through this recurring payment feature in India and reports growing interest from global players looking to follow the same path. UPI is already the dominant payment method in India's e-commerce, with a 54% share, according to Payments and Commerce Market Intelligence (PCMI) data in EBANX's study Beyond Borders . "With the integration of UPI Autopay, merchants can leverage UPI's already strong position in the market, facilitating recurring transactions and expanding access to digital commerce to an even wider audience," said Satpute.

A mix of APMs and cards for digital economy in emerging markets

According to the Reserve Bank of India , credit card usage in India is also experiencing significant growth, with spending increasing by 50% annually since 2021. This also reflects on e-commerce: they are responsible for one quarter of the total e-commerce pie in India, and are expected to accelerate by double-digits, at a 16% CAGR by 2027, according to PCMI in Beyond Borders  almost the 18% rate of UPI.

"The growth in alternative payment methods, such as UPI, isn't a shift away from cards," said Eduardo de Abreu, Vice President of Product at EBANX. "It rather responds to the expansion of the whole digital market, following digital and financial inclusion of consumers. The right mix of APMs and cards is essential to grow in emerging economies like India."

In India, for instance, this mix can enable global companies to reach 8 times more consumers than by offering exclusively credit cards, according to EBANX's analysis based on data from PCMI, the World Bank, and the Central Bank of India.

The recurrency feature is essential in this scenario, as APMs have been inspired by cards. "The global trend of APMs offering recurring payments is rapidly expanding worldwide, unlocking new opportunities for both customers and businesses in key markets," stated Abreu. Besides in India with UPI Autopay, the trend is also gaining traction in other emerging markets, such as Brazil, with the success of Pix Automatico , expected to launch in June, and across Latin America with Mercado Pago Connect in Argentina, Chile, Mexico, and Uruguay, as well as Nequi in Colombia.

ABOUT EBANX

EBANX is the leading payments platform connecting global businesses to the world's fastest-growing digital markets, with a mission to expand access to international digital commerce. Founded in 2012 in Brazil, where its business headquarters are located, EBANX has since expanded globally, with clients, operations, offices, and teams across the Americas, Europe, and Asia  where it maintains its operational headquarters in Singapore. Leveraging proprietary technology, deep market expertise, and robust infrastructure, EBANX enables global companies to offer hundreds of local payment methods and streamline cross-border payments across Latin America, Africa, and Asia. More than just payments, EBANX drives growth, enhances sales, and delivers seamless purchase experiences for businesses and consumers alike.

For further information, please visit:

Website: https://www.ebanx.com/en/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ebanx

Media Contact:

Leonardo Stamillo

[email protected]

Content CO

SOURCE EBANX
SAN FRANCISCO, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- AusperBio Therapeutics, Inc. and Ausper Biopharma Co., Ltd. (together AusperBio), a clinical-stage biotechnology company, today announced the presentation of end-of-treatment (EOT) clinical data from its ongoing Phase IIb trial of AHB-137 in a late-breaking poster session at the annual European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) Congress 2025, held May 710 in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

AHB-137 is an investigational antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) targeting chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection for functional cure. The presentation highlighted interim data from a multicenter, randomized Phase IIb study evaluating AHB-137 in HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients on nucleos(t)ide analog (NA) therapy.

The presentation details are as follows:

Title: HBsAg loss and seroconversion after 16-week or 24-week AHB-137 treatment in HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B participants on NA therapy: results from an ongoing multicenter, randomized phase IIb study

Session: Late Breaker Posters (LBP-014)

Time: Available from 8:30 AM CEST, Wednesday, May 7

Authors: Yanhang Gao, Xieer Liang, Youwen Tan, Haibing Gao, Dachuan Cai, Jidong Jia, Xinrui Wang, Zhihong Liu, Xingbei Zhou, Huaxi Ma, Shan Zhong, Hong Ma, Di Zhao, Chen Yang, Hao Wang, Miao Wang, Cheng Yong Yang, Guofeng Cheng, Jinlin Hou, Junqi Niu

In the study, patients received either 16 or 24 weeks of AHB-137 treatment. The primary endpoint, HBsAg < 0.05 IU/mL, the lower limit of quantification (LLOQ), and HBV DNA < LLOQ (10 IU/mL) at the end of treatment, was achieved by 66% (21/32) in the 16-week arm and 75% (24/32) in the 24-week arm. Among patients achieving the primary endpoint, >80% experienced HBsAg loss within 12 weeks, and anti-HBs seroconversion at the end of treatment was observed in 33% and 54% of subjects in the 16-week and 24-week arms, respectively. AHB-137 was well tolerated across both arms with a favorable safety profile.

"These Phase IIb interim efficacy and safety data strengthen the exciting Phase IIa data, demonstrating AHB-137's potential as a backbone in achieving a functional cure for CHB," said Dr. Guofeng Cheng, Co-founder and CEO of AusperBio.

Dr. Chris Yang, Co-founder and CSO, added: "We are very excited by the fast kinetics of HBsAg decline, and the high rate of seroconversion."

Finally, the company would like to extend its sincere gratitude to the efforts of all the principal investigators, clinical staff, study participants, and dedicated AusperBio team members. The rapid progress of AHB-137's clinical development would not be possible without their support and hard work.

The full scientific program for The International Liver Congress 2025, as well as the abstracts, can be found at https://www.easlcongress.eu/.

About AHB-137

AHB-137, a novel unconjugated antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) developed within AusperBio's proprietary Med-Oligo ASO technology platform, was designed to treat chronic hepatitis B for a functional cure. Its compelling preclinical, Phase 1 and Phase IIa clinical data were highlighted at the 2023 EASL conference, the 2024 EASL conference and the 2024 AASLD conference, respectively. This novel dual-mechanism ASO is presently undergoing a Phase 1b trial across multiple international study sites and two concurrent Phase 2 trials in China. Through a global development strategy, AHB-137 is advancing rapidly towards the goal of HBV cure.

About AusperBio.

AusperBio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company with operations in the USA and China, dedicated to advancing oligonucleotide and targeted delivery technologies for transformative therapies, with an initial focus on curing chronic hepatitis B infection. The company has developed a proprietary Med-Oligo ASO platform which has been shown to substantially enhance the current ASO therapeutics, through novel insights into ASO design. Combining with efficient targeted delivery conjugation technologies, the modular Med-Oligo Platform empowers ASO therapeutics to treat a broad range of diseases, including viral infections, metabolic conditions, genetic disorders, and immune diseases. For more information, visit www.ausperbio.com

Media Contact

Email: [email protected]

Investor Contact

Tel: 650-888-1756 (US)

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE AusperBio Therapeutics Inc.
SAN DIEGO, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- For the second year in a row, Barbachano International (BIP) has earned a top 10 spot on Forbes' prestigious list of America's Best Executive Recruiting Firms, climbing two positions to rank #8 in 2025.

Barbachano International also maintained its position as one of the country's Best Professional Recruiting Firms, ranking #9 for the second year. These achievements reflect Barbachano International's ongoing commitment to helping organizations across the U.S., Mexico, and Latin America attract and retain top leadership talent.

"Eight years ago, we ranked #155. Today, we're #8."  Fernando Ortiz-Barbachano Post this

"We're proud to move even closer to the top," said Fernando Ortiz-Barbachano, CEO of Barbachano International. "In 2017, we made a promise to ourselves, to reach the top 10 by staying focused on what matters: delivering exceptional value, treating clients and candidates with care, and building a team that believes in long-term impact over short-term wins. Eight years ago, we ranked #155. Today, we're #8. That journey has been nothing short of transformative."

Ortiz-Barbachano added, "To our clients and candidatesthank you for trusting us. And to our teamthis win belongs to you."

Octavio Lepe, Executive Vice President, added, "We're grateful for the recognition, but what means most is knowing that our work continues to make a real difference for our clients. We take pride in building strong, lasting partnerships and staying focused on what they need - not just today, but as they grow."

The Forbes rankings, created in collaboration with Statista, are based on thousands of direct recommendations from HR professionals, hiring managers, and recruiting peers. Barbachano International's inclusion in both categories underscores its strong reputation and results-driven approach across a wide range of industries and both executive and professional-level functions.

About Barbachano International

Barbachano International is the premier executive search and leadership advisory firm with a strong focus on multicultural and diverse talent across the Americas. BIP recruits across a wide range of industries, including Consumer Products, Manufacturing, Technology, Agribusiness, Food & Beverage, Medical Devices, Automotive, Aerospace, Energy, and Hospitality, among others. Headquartered in San Diego, California, with satellite offices in Florida and Mexico, BIP is also a member-owner of NPAworldwide Recruitment Network, with partner offices in over 54 countries.

Media Contact

Claudia Lorenzo

Digital Marketing Manager

Barbachano International

[email protected]

Phone: 619-427-2310

SOURCE Barbachano International
The May editions feature exclusive insights from Oracle, Google Cloud, Kevlinx, PLDCA, NVIDIA, Equifax ANZ, Sunrise, SailPoint and others. Topics include AI innovation, cloud transformation, digital infrastructure and enterprise leadership.

LONDON, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BizClik , the UK's fastest-growing B2B digital media company, has published the May 2025 editions of Technology Magazine and AI Magazine . These titles continue to showcase industry-defining perspectives on enterprise transformation, spotlighting leaders and companies shaping the future of technology, cloud, telecoms and AI.

Technology Magazine  May 2025 Edition

This edition examines how technology is transforming enterprise operations across multiple sectors, with a focus on infrastructure, automation, data and AI strategy.

Cover Feature: Oracle

Miranda Nash, Global Vice President of Oracle AI, offers an in-depth look at the company's AI Agent Studio and its role in modernising enterprise AI deployment.

Additional Features

GFT Technologies and Google Cloud: Fabien Duboeuf and Brandon Speweik on collaborative infrastructure solutions

and on collaborative infrastructure solutions Sunrise: CIO Anna Maria Blengino shares how Switzerland's second-largest telecom provider is undergoing digital transformation

second-largest telecom provider is undergoing digital transformation Kevlinx Data Centers: CEO Eric Boonstra outlines the company's AI-ready infrastructure strategy

outlines the company's AI-ready infrastructure strategy Spotfire: Brad Hopper , VP of Industry Applications, explains how visual data science is unlocking innovation

, VP of Industry Applications, explains how visual data science is unlocking innovation PLDCA: Piotr Kowalski presents Poland as a leading European data centre destination

presents as a leading European data centre destination Tata Consultancy Services: A look inside the global tech leader's digital operating model

SailPoint: CIO Sreeveni Kancharla discusses identity security in the AI era

A1 Croatia : Bojan Klasan reveals how next-gen data centres are powering national transformation

: reveals how next-gen data centres are powering national transformation Equifax ANZ: CTO Paul Gladigau on AI, cloud and regional technology partnerships

on AI, cloud and regional technology partnerships Top 10 Women in Technology: Featuring senior leaders from Schneider Electric, Microsoft, Netflix, Adobe, Unilever and others

Read the full edition

AI Magazine  May 2025 Edition This edition highlights how AI is redefining industry standards across sectors such as telecoms, education, biotech, energy, hospitality and enterprise consulting.

Featured Interviews and Case Studies

Sunrise: Anna Maria Blengino , CIO, shares how the company is modernising telecom operations

, CIO, shares how the company is modernising telecom operations Kevlinx Data Centers: Eric Boonstra and Eric Liscia discuss designing scalable AI-ready data centres across Europe

and discuss designing scalable AI-ready data centres across Abzena: CIO David Williamson explores the intersection of biotech and AI data strategy

Stonegate Group: Ashlie Thurston , Head of IT and Digital Transformation, on using AI to enhance customer engagement

, Head of IT and Digital Transformation, on using AI to enhance customer engagement DCC Technology: Vishal Chhatralia explains how strategic leadership is connecting global tech brands to end users

explains how strategic leadership is connecting global tech brands to end users PLDCA: Piotr Kowalski outlines Poland's growing position in the European data infrastructure market

outlines growing position in the European data infrastructure market metrobloks: CEO Ernest Popescu discusses the development of sustainable, AI-driven urban infrastructure

discusses the development of sustainable, AI-driven urban infrastructure Indianapolis Public Schools: Chenzira Allen explains the district's digital-first approach to education

Public Schools: explains the district's digital-first approach to education SailPoint: Sree Kancharla on how the company is adapting cybersecurity for an AI-powered future

on how the company is adapting cybersecurity for an AI-powered future Kaizen Gaming: Insights into how cloud and AI are improving global gaming experiences

7up Bottling Group ( Nigeria ): Executives share how AI and mobile technology are modernising operations

): Executives share how AI and mobile technology are modernising operations A1 Croatia : Bojan Klasan on data centre innovation in support of national digital growth

: on data centre innovation in support of national digital growth NVIDIA: Ronnie Vasishta , SVP of Telecom, on AI's expanding influence across global markets

Also Included

Top 10 Global AI Consulting Firms: A spotlight on consultancies such as PwC and McKinsey & Company leading AI strategy worldwide

Bonus insights from senior leaders at PepsiCo, Google, Qualtrics and Capgemini

Read the full edition

About BizClik

BizClik is one of the fastest-growing digital media companies in the UK. The company owns and operates a portfolio of globally recognised B2B brands focused on executive communities across Technology, AI, FinTech, InsurTech, Supply Chain, Procurement, Energy, Mining, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Mobile, Data Centre, Cyber and Sustainability.

For more information, visit: https://www.bizclikmedia.com

SOURCE BizClik Media
AUSTIN, Texas, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BOLD Precious Metals, among the leading bullion dealers, is known for its innovation, customer experience, and wide product base. Now they have introduced a comprehensive multi-functional digital bullion portfolio tool that is an essential aspect for every investor.

The Necessity of a New Standard in Bullion Investment Management

BOLD Bullion Investment Portfolio

Precious metals are a proven haven during economic instabilities due to global conflicts, economic shifts, or market fluctuations. Investors need more than physical bullion; they need visibility, control, and insight. A Bullion Portfolio offers the tools to manage and track investments, providing a safe investment place.

Salient Features Include:

Multi-Function Digital Solution : Unawareness of current portfolio value and bundle of spreadsheets are replaced with Live value tracking, managing all bullion at one place, and building a diversified portfolio.

: Unawareness of current portfolio value and bundle of spreadsheets are replaced with Live value tracking, managing all bullion at one place, and building a diversified portfolio. Performance Tracking : Historical data and live market fluctuations (updated every 45 secs) to help monitor precious metal performance.

: Historical data and live market fluctuations (updated every 45 secs) to help monitor precious metal performance. Calculations with Premiums : Ability to opt between including or excluding product premiums in the portfolio valuation.

: Ability to opt between including or excluding product premiums in the portfolio valuation. Forecasting Tools : Interactive market charts enhanced by in-house market analyst insights.

: Interactive market charts enhanced by in-house market analyst insights. Product Life-Cycle (Upcoming Feature) : Detailed analysis and all-time product report with all actions undertaken.

: Detailed analysis and all-time product report with all actions undertaken. Buying, Selling, & Exiting Capabilities : Execute transactions directly within the platform (Much easier for products purchased from BOLD).

: Execute transactions directly within the platform (Much easier for products purchased from BOLD). Tax Report Generation: Detailed Tax report of the portfolio with one click.

As the company states, the Bullion portfolio is designed to help discerning investors with a more innovative, growth-oriented digital tool backed by technology. The platform is designed to ensure a user-centric shopping experience while keeping investments in check.

About BOLD Precious Metals

BOLD Precious Metals is a top dealer for gold, silver, platinum, and palladium coins, bars, and rounds. The company thrives on simplicity with innovation, transparency, pricing, exceptional customer service, and secure transactions.

Explore now at: https://www.boldpreciousmetals.com/chart/silver-price

Website URL: https://www.boldpreciousmetals.com/

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2680269/BOLD_Bullion_Portfolio.jpg

SOURCE BOLD Precious Metals
A Longtime Ambassador for Chicago's Beloved Sandwich, the Buona Family is offering Free Beef for a Year, Tickets to Legendary Chicago Experiences, and More

CHICAGO, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In 2015, Buona (Bow'nuh), the family-owned business behind Chicago's original Italian beef, petitioned to designate every Saturday during Memorial Day weekend as National Italian Beef Day. As a family-owned Italian Beef purveyor, Buona founded the holiday to honor Chicago's original destinations for Italian Beef. Now in its tenth year, the holiday falls on May 24.

National Italian Beef Day at Buona

"Italian beef comes from Chicago-Italian families that were working hard to make ends meet," says Founding Family Member Joe Buonavolanto, Jr. "We established the holiday to celebrate this unique sandwich and the First Families of Italian beef, including the Scalas, the Pacellis (Al's Beef), and yes  our own family. Each of us was among the pioneers who helped bring the famed sandwich from banquet halls to street stands using the traditional slow-cooking methods passed down through generations."

The Buonavolanto family believes that the tenth anniversary of National Italian Beef Day deserves more than a single day of deals and is offering beefy bargains for its loyal rewards members throughout May as they gear up to celebrate National Italian Beef Day. The celebration includes:

FREE beef for a year for ten lucky Rewards program members.

"Flash" SMS contests for Chicago -centric experiences including tickets to Lollapalooza, and Riot Fest, as well as sporting events and blockbuster concerts.

-centric experiences including tickets to Lollapalooza, and Riot Fest, as well as sporting events and blockbuster concerts. Italian Beef Day specials  on May 24 th all guests can celebrate with as many Italian beef sandwiches and fries for $7.99 that their hearts desireno judgment here!

all guests can celebrate with as many Italian beef sandwiches and fries for that their hearts desireno judgment here! Month-long members-only pricing for Buona Rewards members, such as special pricing on combos (Italian beef and sausage sandwiches) every Wednesday, cheese fries (a fan favorite), deliciously inventive Italian Beef Arancini Bites, and more.

But the celebration doesn't stop there! Starting on Italian Beef Day, Chicago food lovers will rejoice as Buona partners with Giordano's (another hometown favorite), to launch their Italian Beef Pizza. Bringing together two of Chicago's finest, this limited-time pizza will only be available to order online while supplies last.

About National Italian Beef Day

National Italian Beef Day was established by Buona in 2015 as a tribute to the iconic sandwich that was born in 1930s Chicago. Italian beef was created by Italian families who immigrated to the city. Using traditional slow-cooking methods from their native Italy, they created a satisfying and delicious gravy-soaked sandwich that fed large broods family weddings or traditional Sunday dinners. Buona remains the largest restaurant group that's been able to preserve the all-natural, slow-roasted methods passed down through generations.

About Buona

Four decades, three generations, and several dozen restaurants ago, Joe and Peggy Buonavolanto opened the first Buona restaurant in Berwyn, IL. which specialized in their authentic recipe for Italian beef sandwiches. Today, Buona is made up of multiple generations of Buonavolantos and dedicated employees who are passionate about authenticity. As a result, Buona is now the largest restaurant group that still follows the original, all-natural method for making Italian beef. To sign up for Buona Rewards visit Buona.com or download the Buona app from your App Store.

SOURCE Buona Companies
Investment led by UPMC Enterprises, with participation from MemorialCare Innovation Fund, Rex Health Ventures, Tampa General Hospital Ventures, Memorial Hermann Health System, Frist Cressey Ventures, Storm Ventures, Paramark Ventures, CU Healthcare Innovation Fund, and Mass General Brigham Ventures



SAN FRANCISCO, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Carta Healthcare, a leading provider of AI-powered clinical data abstraction, today announced it has secured $18.25 million in Series B1 financing. This investment will accelerate the company's growth as demand surges among health systems and life sciences organizations for AI-driven innovation that transforms clinical data into valuable insights.

The investment was led by UPMC Enterprises, with participation from new strategic investors, including MemorialCare Innovation Fund, Rex Health Ventures (the investment fund for the UNC Health), Tampa General Hospital Ventures and support from existing investors Memorial Hermann Health System, Frist Cressey Ventures, Storm Ventures, Paramark Ventures, CU Healthcare Innovation Fund, and Mass General Brigham Ventures.

"UPMC Enterprises invests in companies that are solving real problems in healthcare delivery," said Brent Burns, executive vice president at UPMC Enterprises, the innovation, commercialization and venture capital arm of UPMC. "Health systems face significant challenges associated with clinical data abstraction and patient trial matching, which are time-consuming, labor-intensive processes. Carta Healthcare leverages AI to streamline data abstraction and provide analytics that clinicians can use to improve patient care. We look forward to partnering with Carta Healthcare to advance their mission and explore opportunities to implement their solutions across our health system."

The new funding will enable Carta Healthcare to further expand its growing customer footprint, particularly in the life sciences market, following the late 2024 acquisition of Realyze Intelligence from UPMC Enterprises. Realyze Intelligence's technology leverages AI to rapidly analyze structured and unstructured data and identify specific patients that match clinical trials and other research studies.

"We have long recognized that better clinical data abstraction and activation is integral to improving healthcare," said Navid Farzad, Managing Partner at Frist Cressey Ventures. "Since our initial investment, Carta has been laser focused on solving this challenge for health systems by using the Carta Healthcare AI platform to automate the data abstraction process, generating high-quality clinical data while simultaneously realizing an immediate ROI by reducing the high labor cost of data abstraction."

"As a community-focused health system, we're always looking to invest in new digital technologies that will enable us to better meet the diverse needs of our patients in the Greater Houston area, while also supporting our providers and physician partners," said Feby Abraham, executive vice president and chief strategy officer for Memorial Hermann Health System. "Our vision is to create healthier communities, now and for generations to come. By partnering with Carta Healthcare, we are investing in a platform that will help us drive innovation and provide the best care possible for our patients."

Founded in 2017, Carta Healthcare has pioneered innovative approaches to clinical data abstraction and healthcare analytics. The company's technology combines AI, machine learning, and deep clinical expertise to automate the collection and analysis of clinical data, enabling healthcare organizations to generate actionable insights that drive quality improvement initiatives.

"This significant investment from leading health systems further validates and empowers our mission to harness the power of data, ensuring that care teams and researchers have the information they need, when they need it," said Carta Healthcare CEO Brent Dover. "With their support and adoption of our solutions, we can continue to expand upon our deep clinical domain expertise, scale our operations and product deployment, and activate their structured and unstructured data as close to real time as possible to support process improvement and quality initiatives."

Carta Healthcare CFO Lucas Tanner said the latest investment round supports a financially healthy company.

"We've demonstrated consistent year-over-year growth by focusing on delivering measurable value to healthcare systems," he added. "This new capital will allow us to scale our team and infrastructure to meet increasing market demand. With a strengthened balance sheet and critical insights from industry-leading strategic investors, we are well-positioned to capture the significant market opportunity ahead of us."

For more information about Carta Healthcare and its solutions, visit www.carta.healthcare .

About Carta Healthcare

At Carta Healthcare, we believe that high-quality data is the foundation for better healthcare outcomes. Traditional methods for abstracting data from clinical systems are often labor-intensive, time-consuming, and costly. As the leading provider of clinical data management solutions, Carta Healthcare leverages advanced artificial intelligence and a team of expert clinical professionals to deliver accurate, high-quality, and actionable clinical data that drives healthcare improvements. By streamlining data abstraction, Carta Healthcare significantly reduces costs and enhances operational efficiency for hospitals and health systems. Recognized for its innovation with accolades such as the Merit Award, Pinnacle Award, and BIG Innovation Awards, Carta Healthcare is transforming the future of healthcare data management. Discover more at https://www.carta.healthcare/

Media contact:

Katlyn Nesvold

Amendola Communications for Carta Healthcare

[email protected]

SOURCE Carta Healthcare
Innovative infrastructure gives iGaming operators full control over performance, integration, and commercial terms.

BUCHAREST, Romania, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- CasinoWebScripts, a leading provider of iGaming software solutions, is drawing attention to a powerful infrastructure model already in use by several clients  one that enables direct integration between online casino operators and game content providers. As the industry evolves, the company is now actively promoting this approach as a smarter alternative to traditional aggregation.

From Gape Provider Directly To Operator Seamless Game API Integrations - Bypass Aggregators - Partner Directly

In the conventional model, aggregators act as intermediaries between content providers and casino platforms. While convenient, this structure often limits operators' control over technical and commercial aspects, introduces latency, and adds additional costs. CasinoWebScripts' model removes the need for an aggregator by enabling operators to connect directly to game providers using a simplified and consistent integration method.

"Our goal is to simplify the way operators work with game studios, regardless of the type of casino they operate  whether it's real-money, crypto, or social sweepstakes," said Oscar Stevens, Head of Business Development at CasinoWebScripts. "By providing the tools and infrastructure for direct connections, we empower both sides to negotiate directly, optimize performance, and reduce third-party dependencies."

Key Features of the Model Include:

Direct Integration : Operators connect with game providers through a unified framework, without using an aggregator.

: Operators connect with game providers through a unified framework, without using an aggregator. Faster Load Times and Lower Latency : The streamlined architecture improves game performance and platform responsiveness.

: The streamlined architecture improves game performance and platform responsiveness. Independent Commercial Agreements : Operators and providers manage their own contracts, pricing, and terms with full autonomy.

: Operators and providers manage their own contracts, pricing, and terms with full autonomy. Easy Expansion : The system supports the quick addition of new providers, with minimal integration overhead.

: The system supports the quick addition of new providers, with minimal integration overhead. Technology-Only Role: CasinoWebScripts supplies the infrastructure but does not interfere in commercial relationships.

This infrastructure shift reflects growing demand from operators looking for more autonomy in their business models. It also addresses concerns about transparency and technical bottlenecks that often arise with aggregator-based systems.

"Our platform is designed to serve those who want to scale fast and retain control over their operations," added Stevens. "With this model, operators no longer have to compromise on performance or commercial independence."

CasinoWebScripts invites online casino operators and game providers to explore the benefits of this direct integration model and contact the company for a technical overview or partnership discussion.

Media Contact:

Oscar Stevens

Head of Business Development

www.CasinoWebScripts.com

+40373782456

[email protected]

SOURCE CasinoWebScripts
ChabertonSunscape completes first project sale in Italy , marking a key step in a growing pipeline of distributed solar developments across the country

The projects will generate 13.5 GWh of clean electricity per year, enough to power the equivalent of 5,000 homes and avoiding 140,000 metric tons of CO emissions over 30 years

ROCKVILLE, Md. and MILAN, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The joint venture between Chaberton Energy and Italy-based developer Sunscape announced today the sale of the partnership's first two solar projects in Italy. The successful development of the Ponente and Maestrale projects represents a significant foray by the two companies into the promising Italian solar energy market.

The solar plants, located near Bari and Bologna, Italy, will power the equivalent of 5,000 Italian homes annually. Post this Green Utility SpA acquired 8.7 MWdc in Italy-based solar projects from the joint venture between Chaberton Energy and Sunscape, representing the partnership's first transaction.

Both projects benefit from direct connection to the existing medium-voltage grid and are on track to power up later this year. Maestrale, sited just outside Bologna, is a 7.4 megawatt direct current (MWdc) project while Ponente, near Bari, is a 1.3 MWdc project. Both projects are ground-mounted and use high performance bifacial photovoltaic modules and one-axis tracking systems to maximize the energy production. Generating around 13.5 GWh of clean electricity per year, the two plants will supply the annual needs of approximately 5,000 Italian households and avoid nearly 140,000 metric tons of CO emissions over 30 years.

Green Utility SpA, an Italian independent power producer, acquired both projects and will be responsible for constructing and operating the plants. "We are thrilled for this milestone," said Alessia Incagnoli, head of business development for Green Utility SpA, who managed the transaction together with Ruben Oxenham, project developer. "Adding more projects like these to the grid is an important step towards the ecological transition."

Green Utility and the ChabertonSunscape team are already exploring opportunities to collaborate on additional projects currently under development.

"I am particularly proud of the Chaberton-Sunscape joint venture, which represents a great step for both companies in the development of renewable energy in Italy," said Stefano Ratti, CEO of Chaberton Energy, who himself is originally from the Piemonte region of Italy. "Both companies share a commitment to doing well and doing good in the communities in which we operate, and the projects we are developing meet both these standards."

The two projects are the first of what is expected to be more than 30 MWdc of solar to be ready for construction through the partnership within the next year. They are among more than 100 MWdc of projects that the companies are currently developing.

"These first two projects reached ready-to-build status in less than two years from initial site identification, demonstrating the efficiency of our development approach," said Giancarlo Gentile, CEO of Sunscape. "We are focused on projects up to 10 MWdc that benefit from simplified permitting procedures and shorter development timelines, and we look forward to expanding our presence in the Italian market with further successes."

About Chaberton Energy

Headquartered in Maryland, Chaberton Energy is a public benefit corporation developing renewable distributed energy projects, with a particular emphasis on community solar, solar for businesses and battery storage. Chaberton was named to the 2024 Inc. 5000 list of America's fastest-growing private companies and ranks as the No. 1 fastest-growing community solar company, the No. 2 fastest-growing Maryland company, and the No. 34 fastest-growing company overall.

About Sunscape

Sunscape, headquartered in Bari, is an Italian company specialized in the development and engineering of photovoltaic and agrivoltaic projects throughout Italy. With a highly skilled and multidisciplinary team, Sunscape manages the entire project lifecycle, from land scouting and technical design to permitting and construction supervision. The company has designed and developed, or is currently working on, more than 50 projects across Italy, totaling over 120 MW of renewable energy capacity.

About Green Utility

Green Utility SpA, headquartered in Rome and founded in 2007, is a vertically integrated solar PV platform focused on tailored energy efficiency solutions driven by solar PV for C&I clients through distributed generation (both rooftop and ground-mounted plants). In November 2024 Infravia acquired the majority stake of Green Utility to leverage the company's proven development, construction, and operation capabilities to become a leading solar PV distributed energy platform in Italy.

Chaberton Media Contact (U.S.)

Lia Morrison

+1 412 573 9095

[email protected]

Sunscape Media Contact (Italy)

Francesca Ladisa

+39 080 597 4996

[email protected]

Green Utility Media Contact (Italy)

Ludovica Conte

+ 39 328 439 7677

SOURCE Chaberton Energy
SHENZHEN, China, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- CIMC Modular Building Systems (CIMC MBS), a global leader in advanced modular construction, has earned two prestigious awards at the 2025 World of Modular Conference, organized by the Modular Building Institute (MBI). The company received Permanent Modular Dormitory of the Year and Relocatable Modular Affordable Housing of the Year, marking its second consecutive year as a multi-award winner.

Recognized by Global Industry Leaders

The CIMC MBS team receiving awards on-site

The World of Modular Conference, the premier global event in the modular construction industry, honors excellence in design, innovation, sustainability, efficiency, and architectural quality. The Awards of Distinction are presented based on votes from a panel of experts and industry leaders across North America, as well as votes from conference attendees, making it a highly collaborative and prestigious benchmark in the field.

CIMC MBS was selected from hundreds of global entries, underscoring its strength in industrialized precision, smart construction applications, carbon-reduction strategies, and human-centered design.

2025 Award-Winning Projects

The Student Hostel at City University of Hong Kong (Whitehead, Ma On Shan) was awarded First Place in the Permanent Modular Dormitory category. As the world's largest modular student housing project, it was completed two years ahead of schedule. The project achieved a 50% faster delivery and reduced waste by 68% compared to traditional construction. Featuring advanced MiMEP integration and low-carbon solutions, it sets a new standard for high-density, sustainable urban development.

The "T-Loft@Lok Wo" transitional housing project in Hong Kong received First Place in the Relocatable Modular Social & Supportive Housing category. With its fully relocatable design, the project integrates safety, efficiency, and comfort with aesthetic appeal. It offers a forward-thinking solution to global housing challenges, showcasing exceptional design and quality in social housing.

These accolades follow CIMC MBS's success at the 2024 World of Modular Conference, where it received awards for its citizenM Hotel in Menlo Park, USA, and United Court Transitional Housing in Hong Kongboth recognized for their energy efficiency, mobility, and construction speed.

"We are honored to receive this international recognition once again," said Victor Zhu, General Manager of CIMC Modular Building Systems. "These awards affirm the global impact of our technology and our unwavering commitment to building smarter, greener, and more sustainable spaces for communities around the world."

SOURCE CIMC
16th Annual Report Tracks Global Media Trends Across AI, Social Media, Pitching Best Practices, and the Evolving Role of PR

CHICAGO, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Cision, the global leader in consumer and media intelligence, today released its 16th annual State of the Media Report, an industry-defining study of more than 3,000 journalists across 19 global markets. This year's findings uncover the pressures and possibilities shaping modern journalismfrom shifting audience behavior and AI disruption to the continued demand for relevance, accuracy, and real human connection in PR outreach.

"Our report gives PR professionals the roadmap to be trusted, valuable collaborators," said Jim Daxner, Chief Product Officer and Head of Strategy at Cision. Post this Cision's 2025 State of the Media Report Reveals a Tipping Point for Trust, Technology, and PR-Journalist Partnerships

For over a decade and a half, Cision's State of the Media Report has offered unparalleled insight into the evolving dynamics between journalists and the PR professionals who partner with them. The 2025 report dives deeper than ever before, revealing regional differences across North America, EMEA, and APAC, and surfacing global themes that matter most in media today.

"This year's findings reinforce just how important it is for PR teams to focus on precision, empathy, and adaptability," said Jim Daxner, Chief Product Officer and Head of Strategy at Cision. "The media landscape is evolving rapidlyAI is transforming how content is created, audience behavior is more fragmented than ever, and journalists are navigating immense pressures. Our report gives PR professionals the roadmap to be trusted, valuable collaborators in that environment."

Key Insights from the 2025 Report:

Relevance is Everything: 86% of journalists say they'll immediately reject a pitch that isn't aligned with their beat or audienceunderscoring the need for PR teams to do their research and tailor every outreach.

86% of journalists say they'll immediately reject a pitch that isn't aligned with their beat or audienceunderscoring the need for PR teams to do their research and tailor every outreach. Press Releases Still Reign: Despite an evolving media landscape, 72% of journalists still cite press releases as the most useful resource PR teams can offer. When paired with multimedia, impact increases significantly.

Despite an evolving media landscape, 72% of journalists still cite press releases as the most useful resource PR teams can offer. When paired with multimedia, impact increases significantly. AI Adoption and Caution: Over half of journalists globally now use generative AI tools like ChatGPT, yet 72% worry about factual errors in AI-generated PR content. Transparency, accuracy, and human oversight remain essential.

Over half of journalists globally now use generative AI tools like ChatGPT, yet 72% worry about factual errors in AI-generated PR content. Transparency, accuracy, and human oversight remain essential. Relationship-First PR: The majority of journalists (85%) say the best way to build a relationship is simple: introduce yourself via emaileven without a story to pitch. Relationships still matter most in media relations.

The majority of journalists (85%) say the best way to build a relationship is simple: introduce yourself via emaileven without a story to pitch. Relationships still matter most in media relations. Fragmented Social Media Use: LinkedIn remains the most-used platform globally, while region-specific platforms like WeChat ( China ), WhatsApp (EMEA), and BlueSky ( North America ) show the shifting nature of media engagement.

A Global Perspective That Drives Smarter PR

This year's survey spans insights from 19 countries, reflecting a global industry in transition. From APAC's embrace of AI to North America's continued focus on media trust and credibility, the 2025 report helps PR professionals adapt their strategies to regional realities while aligning with universal best practices.

The report also includes tactical guidance on pitching, multimedia preferences, AI use in content creation, and how to build long-term media relationships in a digitally fractured world.

Read the full 2025 State of the Media Report.

Cision will also host a live webinar featuring media experts and journalists to explore the data in more depth. Registration details will be announced soon.

About Cision

Cision is the global leader in consumer and media intelligence, engagement, and communication solutions. We equip PR and corporate communications, marketing, and social media professionals with the tools they need to excel in today's data-driven world. Our deep expertise, exclusive data partnerships, and award-winning products, including CisionOne, Brandwatch, and PR Newswire, enable over 75,000 companies and organizations, including 84% of the Fortune 500, to see and be seen, understand and be understood by the audiences that matter most to them.

Media Contact:

Cision Public Relations

[email protected]

SOURCE Cision Ltd.
Second annual India event to spotlight developer innovation and cloud native leadership

HYDERABAD, India, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF), which builds sustainable ecosystems for cloud-native software, today announced the keynote speakers and conference sessions for KubeCon + CloudNativeCon India 2025 . The event, scheduled for 6-7 August, 2025 in Hyderabad, will bring together adopters and technologists from leading open source and cloud native communities.

The schedule for KubeCon + CloudNativeCon India was curated by co-chairs Atulpriya Sharma of InfraCloud Technologies and Bhavani Indukuri of Zscaler, who led a program committee of 55 community members. Together, they developed a compelling program that includes 57 sessions, keynotes, lightning talks, and breakout sessions, as well as 13 CNCF project maintainer-hosted sessions.

The event will bring together adopters and technologists from leading open source and cloud native communities. Post this

"India is a growing hub of cloud native talent and we're excited to bring the ecosystem together again for the second annual KubeCon + CloudNativeCon India to share knowledge," said Chris Aniszczyk, CTO of CNCF. "This year's lineup reflects the community's momentum as the fourth largest regional contributor to CNCF projects and offers real business value for organizations looking to scale developer velocity, optimize cloud infrastructure, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market."

The community-curated schedule will include talks from diverse community members, including:

Please visit the schedule for the full KubeCon + CloudNativeCon India 2025 agenda.

Sponsorships

Companies interested in sponsoring KubeCon + CloudNativeCon India should submit a request to [email protected] by Friday, 27 June. View the sponsorship prospectus .

Dan Kohn Scholarship Program

The Dan Kohn Scholarship applications for KubeCon + CloudNativeCon India are due Sunday, 15 June, (11:59 PM PST/12:29 PM IST).

Registration

Standard registration for KubeCon + CloudNativeCon India is available until Wednesday, 25 June, 11:59 PM IST.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

KubeCon + CloudNativeCon India is made possible with support from sponsors .

Platinum sponsors include: Arm , CAST AI , GitHub , and Nutanix .

Additional Resources

About Cloud Native Computing Foundation

Cloud native computing empowers organizations to build and run scalable applications with an open-source software stack across public, private, and hybrid clouds. The CNCF hosts critical components of global technology infrastructure, including Kubernetes, Prometheus, and Envoy, bringing together top developers, end users, and vendors. Supported by over 800 members, including the world's largest technology companies and over 200 innovative startups, CNCF is part of the nonprofit Linux Foundation. For more information, visit www.cncf.io .

The Linux Foundation has registered trademarks and uses trademarks. For a list of trademarks of The Linux Foundation, please see our trademark usage page. Linux is a registered trademark of Linus Torvalds.

Media Contact

Kaitlin Thornhill

The Linux Foundation

[email protected]

SOURCE Cloud Native Computing Foundation
CHICAGO, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Nicor Gas' bid for a record-breaking $308.6 million rate hike is rife with excesses and should be slashed by more than half, according to testimony submitted to state regulators by the Citizens Utility Board (CUB), Illinois PIRG, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), and other consumer advocates.

CUB warned the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) that more than $111 million in the rate hike proposal  including a lavish profit rate for Nicor shareholders and wasteful spending on executive bonuses  doesn't pass legal muster and should be rejected. When the Illinois Attorney General's recommendations are taken into consideration, the requested cuts surge to nearly $153 million, according to testimony filed by the state's chief legal officer. And that total still doesn't account for all of the reductions identified by other parties in the case.

Nicor's proposal would represent the largest rate hike for a gas utility in Illinois history.

"This testimony exposes Nicor's bald-faced attempt to capture exorbitant shareholder profitsan all-too-familiar theme for the utility's customers who have already suffered from exorbitant rate hikes in recent years," said CUB Executive Director Sarah Moskowitz, who urged Nicor customers to sign a petition against the rate hike at CUBActionCenter.com . "We urge the ICC to stand up for Nicor customers and slash the utility's request for a record rate hike."

This is Nicor's fifth rate-hike request since 2017. Between 2017 and 2024, the utility has raised delivery rates by 114 percent, totaling $747 million, and its parent, Southern Co., has raked in $25.2 billion in profits.

"It's time for Nicor to move beyond business-as-usual practices that have already more than doubled its rates in under a decade," said Illinois PIRG Director Abe Scarr. "By considering alternatives to new fossil fuel infrastructure, Nicor can maintain system integrity while reducing rate increases and facilitating the transition to safer, cleaner energy."

"In 2023, the Commission warned Nicor it would need to plan for a gas system that meets Illinois decarbonization goals. Two years later, that change is not happening fast enough," said EDF Senior Attorney Curt Stokes. "EDF, along with our allies, has filed testimony charting a better course. It is our hope that Nicor will take our suggestions seriously and update its plan; if not, we will ask the Commission to order them to."

Experts sponsored by Illinois PIRG and EDF analyzed Nicor's proposals and asked the Commission to reduce planned gas-pipeline spending by more than $80 million, because Nicor failed to adequately consider alternatives such as repairs or "non-pipeline alternatives" like targeted electrification.

EDF and Illinois PIRG made a similar critique of Nicor's spending on gas transmission pipelines in its 2023 rate case. Notably, Nicor responded by more robustly considering alternatives to transmission pipe replacement. In seven of nine transmission projects, Nicor chose an alternative to pipe replacement, saving customers at least $33 million.

A similar reduction in distribution pipeline replacement spending now would better align with Illinois' carbon-reduction goals.

Details of the Case

In January 2025 Nicor Gas filed for a $308.6 million increase (Docket No. 25-0055). Nicor has said the hike would increase average gas bills by about 9 percent, or about $7.50 a month or $90 a year.

CUB and the Illinois Industrial Energy Consumers (IIEC) group partnered to commission expert analysis by Chris Walters and James Leyko, of Brubaker & Associates, Inc., a Missouri-based consulting firm that specializes in utility regulation. Through testimony filed May 1, CUB made several recommendations that would result in reducing the proposed rate hike by $111.5 million. The recommendations include:

Return on Equity. Nicor is asking for an excessive increase in its "Return on Equity" (ROE)or profit rate for shareholdersfrom about 9.51 percent to 10.35 percent. Instead, CUB argues for a more reasonable 9.45 percent ROE. This alone would reduce the rate hike by $47.2 million. In the rate-setting process, ROE is the most important component of a utility's "rate of return," which is the rate at which the utility recovers the cost of financing physical assets, such as gas meters, pipes and gas-storage fields.

Capital Structure. CUB's experts found problems with another key component of the rate of return: "capital structure," or how Nicor finances infrastructure projects. Nicor has proposed increasing its "common equity ratio"how much of the utility's financing comes from issuing stocksto an exorbitant 54.59 percent. CUB recommends keeping the ratio at its current level, 50 percent, which would reduce Nicor's proposed rate hike by $28.5 million.

Executive Bonuses. CUB argued that customers shouldn't pay for bonuses the company gives to executives for reaching financial goals that help enrich shareholders but have absolutely no benefit to customers. Eliminating executive bonuses tied to corporate profit goals would cut Nicor's proposed increase by another $18 million.

Other financial adjustments flagged by CUB amounted to about $17.7 million, for a total recommended reduction of at least $111.5 million. Those adjustments included Nicor's questionable forecasts for gas sales and cash working capital, which is the amount of money a utility has available to fund day-to-day operations. In the case of cash working capital, CUB argued Nicor exaggerates the amount of time it will take customers to pay their bills. The utility estimates a 58.83 day collection lag, when the utility gives its customers less than half that timeabout 21 daysto pay. Just a five-day reduction in this collection lag would reduce Nicor's cost of service by millions of dollars.

Meanwhile, experts for EDF and Illinois PIRG made other recommendations, including:

Lowering the fixed monthly charge customers pay before using any gas from $19.48 per month to $18.51 per month. Nicor proposed raising it to $23.41 . Lower fixed charges give customers more control over their bill and reward energy conservation and efficiency.





per month to per month. Nicor proposed raising it to . Lower fixed charges give customers more control over their bill and reward energy conservation and efficiency. Giving customers the option to and incentives to electrify their home rather than replacing their gas service line.





Ending Nicor's TotalGreen pilot program, which invites customers to pay a premium on monthly bills to lower their carbon footprint via carbon offsets and "renewable natural gas" credits of questionable environmental benefit. After two years, only 131 of Nicor's more than two million customers have enrolled, with administrative costs of over $2,400 per customer. The program has offset only 750 metric tons of emissions on a system that emitted 24 million metric tons of CO 2e in 2023.

Separate from its testimony, CUB also shone a light on Nicor's attempt to make customers bankroll legal fees connected to the utility's serial rate-hike requests. According to Nicor's rate-hike filing with the ICC, the utility is attempting to bill consumers for $6.7 million in "rate-case expense." Those are the fees charged by the entourage of high-priced, outside lawyers and consultants the utility retains to argue that regulators should permit a rate increase.

If approved, this gambit would represent the fifth time since 2017 that Nicor will have forced consumers to pay for the act of raising their own rates, adding up to a staggering $26.7 million. CUB is advocating in Springfield for legislation, The Utility Transparency Act, Senate Bill 1275, that would bar utilities from charging customers for this and other expenses that should instead be covered by shareholders.

The ICC is expected to rule on the rate-hike request in November, after an 11-month rate case. The proposed increase would impact delivery rateswhat the utility charges to cover the costs of delivering gas to customer homes, plus a profit. Those rates take up about a third to a half of gas bills.

Nicor is Illinois' largest gas utility, serving 2.2 million residential, public sector and business customers.

For more than 40 years the Citizens Utility Board (CUB) has been Illinois' leading nonprofit utility watchdog group. Created by the Illinois Legislature, CUB opened its doors in 1984 to represent the interests of residential and small-business utility customers. Since then, CUB has helped save consumers more than $20 billion by blocking rate hikes and securing refunds. For more information, call CUB's Consumer Hotline, at 1-800-669-5556, or visit CUB's website, www.CitizensUtilityBoard.org.

Illinois PIRG is an advocate for the public interest. We speak out for the public and stand up to special interests on problems that affect the public's health, safety and wellbeing.

With more than 3 million members, Environmental Defense Fund creates transformational solutions to the most serious environmental problems. To do so, EDF links science, economics, law, and innovative private-sector partnerships to turn solutions into action. edf.org

SOURCE Citizens Utility Board
HOUSTON, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Core Laboratories Inc. (NYSE: "CLB") ("Core", "Core Lab", or the "Company") is pleased to announce the opening of its new Unconventional Core Analysis Laboratory in Dammam, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This state-of-the-art facility, developed in collaboration with Core's long-time partner, Abdulla Fouad Group, underscores the Company's commitment to advancing reservoir evaluation technologies in the Middle East.

The Company's new analytical laboratory is equipped with advanced proprietary instrumentation designed to provide comprehensive core and fluid analysis services tailored to unconventional reservoirs. By bringing Core Lab's cutting-edge technologies to the region, the facility aims to deliver valuable insights into unconventional reservoir properties, thereby assisting the operator in optimizing the appraisal, development, and production of these unconventional fields.

"The introduction of these laboratory capabilities represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to support the energy sector's evolving needs," said Larry Bruno, CEO of Core Laboratories. "This collaboration with Abdulla Fouad reflects our shared vision of leveraging innovative solutions to address the complexities of unconventional resource development."

This advanced proprietary instrumentation will assist our senior scientists in performing enhanced petrophysical analysis and digital rock characterization, using a number of advanced technologies and analytical techniques, including dual energy CT-scanning, high-frequency Nuclear Magnetic Resonance ("NMR"), and Core's proprietary PRISM workflow. These services are designed to provide clients with detailed reservoir rock and fluid characterization, facilitating informed decision-making throughout the appraisal, development, and production lifecycle.

Core remains focused on strategically expanding its global footprint and enhancing service delivery in key energy markets. The Abdulla Fouad Core Lab facility is poised to become a central hub for unconventional core analysis in the region, reinforcing the Company's position as a leader in reservoir optimization technologies.

Core Laboratories Inc. is a leading provider of proprietary and patented reservoir description and production enhancement services and products used to optimize petroleum reservoir performance. The Company has over 70 offices in more than 50 countries and is located in every major oil-producing province in the world.

Visit the Company's website at www.corelab.com.

SOURCE Core Laboratories Inc
BANGALORE, India, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Corticosteroid API Market is Segmented by Type (Prednisone Series, Dexamethasone Series, Betamethasone Series, Hydrocortisone Series), by Application (Injectable Drugs, Oral Drugs, Topical Drugs, Inhaled Drugs).

The Global Market for Corticosteroid API was valued at USD 2593 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 3864 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 6.0% during the forecast period.

Claim Your Free Report: https://reports.valuates.com/request/sample/QYRE-Auto-21K14628/Global_Corticosteroid_API_Market

Major Factors Driving the Growth of Corticosteroid API Market:

The corticosteroid API market forms a critical backbone for the production of anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs used globally across a range of therapeutic areas. Its sustained growth is fueled by increasing chronic disease prevalence, expanding healthcare access, and the widespread use of corticosteroids in both human and veterinary medicine. API manufacturers are focusing on quality enhancement, scalability, and regulatory compliance to meet global demands. Strategic partnerships, outsourcing, and investments in emerging economies further strengthen market growth. As corticosteroids remain essential in managing inflammation and immune-related conditions, the API market is poised to maintain its upward trajectory and relevance in modern pharmacotherapy.

Unlock Insights: View Full Report Now! https://reports.valuates.com/market-reports/QYRE-Auto-21K14628/global-corticosteroid-api

TRENDS INFLUENCING THE GROWTH OF THE CORTICOSTEROID API MARKET:

The Hydrocortisone series plays a crucial role in driving the growth of the corticosteroid API market due to its extensive therapeutic applications and broad acceptance in clinical practice. Hydrocortisone APIs are widely used in treating inflammatory conditions, allergic reactions, skin disorders, and adrenal insufficiency. Their availability in both topical and systemic formulations allows flexible treatment options across various healthcare settings. Moreover, the high prescription rate and over-the-counter availability of hydrocortisone-based products enhance their market penetration. Pharmaceutical manufacturers focus on improving production efficiency and purity levels of hydrocortisone APIs to meet regulatory standards. This consistent demand, combined with continuous product development and healthcare awareness, contributes significantly to the expansion of the corticosteroid API market globally.

The Dexamethasone series contributes significantly to the growth of the corticosteroid API market due to its powerful anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. Dexamethasone APIs are integral in treating conditions such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, severe allergies, and certain types of cancers. Their inclusion in COVID-19 treatment protocols has further elevated their importance and demand. Due to their potency, even low doses provide effective outcomes, making them a preferred choice for physicians in managing acute and chronic conditions. Manufacturers have increased production to meet growing clinical needs, particularly in developing nations where access to affordable treatment is crucial. This rising application across therapeutic areas propels the dexamethasone series as a key segment in the corticosteroid API market.

Topical drugs are a major growth driver for the corticosteroid API market as they offer localized treatment with minimal systemic side effects, which is appealing to both physicians and patients. These formulations are widely used to treat skin disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis, where corticosteroids provide rapid relief from inflammation and itching. The demand for dermatological products has surged globally, fueled by rising skin disease prevalence and increasing consumer awareness about skincare. Moreover, the convenience and affordability of over-the-counter topical corticosteroid products contribute to their widespread use. This consistent demand for topical applications drives API manufacturers to scale production and innovate delivery systems, supporting overall market expansion.

The growing incidence of chronic inflammatory diseases such as asthma, arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease significantly drives demand for corticosteroid APIs. These conditions require long-term management strategies, where corticosteroids are often central to treatment protocols. With increasing urbanization, pollution, and lifestyle-related triggers contributing to inflammation-related illnesses, the demand for effective and fast-acting anti-inflammatory medications has intensified. Corticosteroid APIs form the basis of numerous oral, injectable, and inhalable formulations used in chronic care. As healthcare providers prioritize symptom control and patient quality of life, the consistent need for corticosteroid-based treatments fuels steady growth in API production and global market consumption.

Corticosteroids are increasingly used as adjunct therapies in oncology and immunotherapy, helping manage side effects of cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Their role in reducing inflammation, nausea, and hypersensitivity reactions enhances patient tolerance to aggressive therapies. With the global burden of cancer rising and oncological treatments becoming more personalized and complex, corticosteroid APIs are in high demand. Pharmaceutical companies are integrating corticosteroids into multi-drug regimens, particularly in hematological cancers. This evolving role in advanced treatment strategies drives API manufacturers to enhance production scalability and reliability, further expanding the corticosteroid API market across therapeutic frontiers.

The aging global population is a critical factor contributing to the growth of the corticosteroid API market. Older adults are more susceptible to chronic conditions such as arthritis, respiratory diseases, and autoimmune disorders, which require corticosteroid-based management. Additionally, age-related degenerative diseases often involve inflammation and pain, increasing the demand for steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. As life expectancy rises and elderly healthcare needs become more complex, the role of corticosteroids in improving quality of life and functional independence becomes prominent. This demographic shift ensures a sustained and growing demand for corticosteroid APIs, prompting manufacturers to expand their capabilities to serve the aging population effectively.

The growing emphasis on generic drug production, particularly in cost-sensitive markets, is a strong driver of the corticosteroid API market. As patents for branded corticosteroid medications expire, generic manufacturers are entering the space with cost-effective alternatives, boosting demand for bulk APIs. Governments and health agencies support the use of generics to reduce treatment costs, further incentivizing API production. This environment creates opportunities for API suppliers to meet volume-based contracts while adhering to stringent quality standards. The push for generic corticosteroid formulations across therapeutic areas is thus accelerating API output, reinforcing the growth trajectory of the corticosteroid API sector.

Claim Yours Now! https://reports.valuates.com/api/directpaytoken?rcode=QYRE-Auto-21K14628&lic=single-user

CORTICOSTEROID API MARKET SHARE

The corticosteroid API market exhibits strong regional dynamics, with North America and Europe maintaining leading positions due to advanced pharmaceutical manufacturing infrastructure, high chronic disease prevalence, and robust regulatory frameworks. In Asia-Pacific, the market is expanding rapidly, driven by rising healthcare expenditure, increasing generic drug production, and a growing patient population. Countries such as India and China are major contributors due to their cost-effective manufacturing capabilities and export-oriented production models.

Key Companies:

EUROAPI

Cipla Ltd

Pfizer CentreOne

GlaxoSmithKline PLC

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries

Hovione

Axplora

Steroid Spa

Avik Pharmaceutical

Anuh Pharma

Symbiotec Pharmalab

Sun Pharmaceutical

Wellona Pharma

Tianjin Tianyao Pharmaceuticals

Zhejiang Xianju Pharmaceutical

Guangdong VTR Bio-Tech

Zhejiang Xianju Xianle Pharmaceutical

Tianjin Pacific Pharmaceutical

Shandong Xinhua Pharmaceutica Group

Jiangsu Lianhuan Pharmaceutical

Shanghai New Hualian Pharmaceutical

Shandong Taihua Biotech

Saituo Biological Technology

Zhejiang Xianju Junye Pharmaceutical

Purchase Chapters: https://reports.valuates.com/market-reports/QYRE-Auto-21K14628/global-corticosteroid-api/1

SUBSCRIPTION

We have introduced a tailor-made subscription for our customers. Please leave a note in the Comment Section to know about our subscription plans.

DISCOVER MORE INSIGHTS: EXPLORE SIMILAR REPORTS!

- Anecortave Acetate API Market

- Amcinonide API Market

- Steroid Hormone API market was valued at USD 133 Million in 2023 and is anticipated to reach USD 172.9 Million by 2030, witnessing a CAGR of 3.7% during the forecast period 2024-2030.

- Steroid-Corticosteroids Market was estimated to be worth USD 4745.8 Million in 2023 and is forecast to a readjusted size of USD 6096.9 Million by 2030 with a CAGR of 3.6% during the forecast period 2024-2030.

- Steroid APIs Market

- Betamethasone API Market

- Dexamethasone API Market

- Prednisone API Market

- Steroid Injections Market

- Glucocorticoid Injection Market

- Steroid Hormone Drugs Market

DISCOVER OUR VISION: VISIT ABOUT US!

Valuates offers in-depth market insights into various industries. Our extensive report repository is constantly updated to meet your changing industry analysis needs.

Our team of market analysts can help you select the best report covering your industry. We understand your niche region-specific requirements and that's why we offer customization of reports. With our customization in place, you can request for any particular information from a report that meets your market analysis needs.

To achieve a consistent view of the market, data is gathered from various primary and secondary sources, at each step, data triangulation methodologies are applied to reduce deviance and find a consistent view of the market. Each sample we share contains a detailed research methodology employed to generate the report. Please also reach our sales team to get the complete list of our data sources.

GET A FREE QUOTE

Valuates Reports

[email protected]

For U.S. Toll-Free Call 1-(315)-215-3225

WhatsApp: +91-9945648335

Website: https://reports.valuates.com

Blog: https://valuatestrends.blogspot.com/

Pinterest: https://in.pinterest.com/valuatesreports/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/valuatesreports

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valuatesreports/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@valuatesreports6753

https://www.facebook.com/valuateskorean

https://www.facebook.com/valuatesspanish

https://www.facebook.com/valuatesjapanese

https://valuatesreportspanish.blogspot.com/

https://valuateskorean.blogspot.com/

https://valuatesgerman.blogspot.com/

https://valuatesreportjapanese.blogspot.com/

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1082232/Valuates_Reports_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Valuates Reports
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Echelon, a leader in connected fitness solutions, proudly announces the launch of StrengthIQ, a groundbreaking smart strength training ecosystem built to deliver adaptive, personalized workouts for every fitness level. Designed to compete with leading smart strength systems, StrengthIQ is part of Echelon's broader mission to transform how people train by blending intelligent equipment, AI-powered SaaS platforms, and highly customized user experiences.

A Natural Evolution for Echelon

"StrengthIQ is a natural next step in our growth," said Lou Lentine, CEO of Echelon. "At our core, we are an innovation tech companyfocused on technology, software, and delivering best-in-class content and wellness outcomes through our app experiences. StrengthIQ builds on everything we've already developed and integrates seamlessly into our model. All this innovation is powered by our U.S.-based R&D team at our Orlando, Florida facility, where our engineers and designers are constantly pushing what's possible."

A New Era of Smart Strength Training

StrengthIQ combines Echelon's cutting-edge hardware with intuitive, performance-driven SaaS to help users train smarter to achieve their fitness & health goals. With real-time feedback, automatic resistance adjustments, and AI-guided progressions, StrengthIQ adapts seamlessly to individual goals and abilities.

Key Features of StrengthIQ:

Personalized, Adaptive Training: Whether a user is just beginning their fitness journey or is a seasoned athlete, StrengthIQ's intelligent resistance adjusts dynamically to meet their needs and maximize results.

Whether a user is just beginning their fitness journey or is a seasoned athlete, StrengthIQ's intelligent resistance adjusts dynamically to meet their needs and maximize results. Smart Circuit Equipment: A full range of machines, including the first-of-its-kind digital Smith machine, supports efficient full-body training circuits, ideal for commercial and boutique fitness environments. This complements Echelon's already robust commercial line of smart cardio machines.

A full range of machines, including the first-of-its-kind digital Smith machine, supports efficient full-body training circuits, ideal for commercial and boutique fitness environments. This complements Echelon's already robust commercial line of smart cardio machines. Comprehensive User Assessment Tool: Before starting a program, users undergo a quick, guided assessment via StrengthIQ's Biometric onboarding platform. This feature helps determine strength levels, imbalances, and ideal training parameters, allowing for personalized program recommendations from day one.

Before starting a program, users undergo a quick, guided assessment via StrengthIQ's Biometric onboarding platform. This feature helps determine strength levels, imbalances, and ideal training parameters, allowing for personalized program recommendations from day one. User-Centric Interface: On-screen guidance and instant feedback empower users to train with proper form, optimal load, and improved motivation.

On-screen guidance and instant feedback empower users to train with proper form, optimal load, and improved motivation. WorkoutBuilder Integration: StrengthIQ includes the launch of Echelon WorkoutBuilder , a revolutionary new platform that enables gyms to generate custom workout programming based on the specific equipment in their facilities. This empowers each location to offer truly bespoke strength training experiences to their members.

StrengthIQ includes the launch of , a revolutionary new platform that enables gyms to generate custom workout programming based on the specific equipment in their facilities. This empowers each location to offer truly bespoke strength training experiences to their members. Data-Driven Optimization: As more consumers prioritize tracking their performance data for better results, StrengthIQ meets the moment by delivering rich insights into every rep, set, and progression  enabling users and gym owners to make informed training decisions.

Meeting the Demand for Connected Fitness and Personalization

"The launch of StrengthIQ reinforces our belief that personalization and connection are the future of fitness," said John Sweeney, VP of Commercial Sales at Echelon. "To really attract, engage, and keep members - especially across multiple locations - gyms need to build a meaningful connection with people. It must feel like something they can't get anywhere else. StrengthIQ and WorkoutBuilder make that possible - not just for users, but for gym operators too."

Sweeney added, "We've already secured meaningful partnerships with gyms across the globe, and we're just getting started. Gym-goers can expect to see StrengthIQ in their local fitness centers very soon, bringing a new level of smart, personalized training to their everyday workouts."

As interest in measurable outcomes and fitness data continues to grow, StrengthIQ delivers a platform where performance tracking isn't just a feature - it's foundational.

StrengthIQ is available now. For more information or to request a demo, visit www.echeloncommercial.com or contact [email protected]

About Echelon

Echelon is a leading provider of connected fitness and wellness solutions for commercial operators worldwide. Serving gyms, studios, multifamily properties, and hospitality partners, Echelon offers a comprehensive ecosystem of smart equipment, engaging content, and AI-powered programming across cardio, strength, and recovery. Designed to enhance the member experience and drive retention, Echelon's flexible platform integrates seamlessly into commercial environments, empowering partners to deliver premium, personalized fitness at scale. With a strong global retail presence and a growing network of enterprise partnerships, Echelon is redefining what's possible in connected wellness.

Contact:

John Santo

407-619-3440

SOURCE Echelon Fitness
Eirion's CEO Interviewed in the Podcast Series Visionary Voices about ET-02 for Hair Loss

WOBURN, Mass., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Eirion Therapeutics Inc., a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative aesthetic prescription product offerings, today announced that the company will present results from two recent clinical trials at the 2025 annual meeting of the Society for Investigative Dermatology, taking place May 7  10, 2025, in San Diego, CA.

Dermatologist and clinical trials investigator Monica Boen, MD, (Cosmetic Laser Dermatology, San Diego, CA ) will present "First-in-Human Clinical Trial Evaluating AI-09, A Novel Long-Lasting Ready-to-Use Liquid Injectable Neuromodulator for the Treatment of Glabellar Lines" during the poster session that will take place on Thursday, May 8 , 4:30 PM  6:00 PM PST .

) will present "First-in-Human Clinical Trial Evaluating AI-09, A Novel Long-Lasting Ready-to-Use Liquid Injectable Neuromodulator for the Treatment of Glabellar Lines" during the poster session that will take place on ,  . Eirion's CEO & President, Jon Edelson , MD, will present "A Novel More Effective Topical Therapeutic Approach for Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia: First in Human Trial Results for Topical ET-02" during the poster session that will take place on Friday, May 9 , 4:30 PM  6:00 PM PST .

"The annual meeting of The Society for Investigative Dermatology is one of the premier scientific conferences in the field of dermatology," commented Dr. Edelson. "We are excited to present the successful results for our first- in-human clinical trials for AI-09 liquid injectable neuromodulator for glabellar lines and ET-02 topical small molecule for androgenetic alopecia."

The Society of Investigative Dermatology's mission is to advance the sciences relevant to skin disease through education, advocacy and the scholarly exchange of scientific information.

Dr. Edelson was also featured in a recently released podcast titled "Targeting the Root Cause: Are We Closer to a Cure for Age-Related Hair Loss?" that appeared in the podcast series Visionary Voices (Season 2, Episode 4). Visionary Voices is a medical education podcast that brings its listeners "closer to the trailblazers in medical science" as their hosts "explore new trends, share best practices, and spark engaging conversations with some of the brightest minds in the healthcare industry." Visionary Voices may be accessed through Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify.

About Eirion Therapeutics, Inc.

Eirion Therapeutics, Inc. is a privately held, clinical stage biopharmaceutical company that is developing next-generation prescription products for aesthetic dermatology. Eirion currently has a rich pipeline of products focusing on treatments for androgenetic alopecia, hair greying, wrinkles, and primary axillary hyperhidrosis. In the future, Eirion plans to pursue additional indications that address other major unmet clinical needs for physicians and their patients.

To learn more about Eirion, please visit: www.eirionthera.com

Media Contact

Megan Driscoll

EvolveMKD

[email protected]

SOURCE Eirion Therapeutics, Inc.
New App Makes It Even Easier for Consumers to View and Manage their Credit Accounts, Providing More Control over their Financial Well-Being

ATLANTA, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Equifax  (NYSE: EFX) has introduced a new myEquifax mobile application for Android  and iPhone , offering consumers a convenient way to monitor their financial health from their mobile devices. In the app, users can directly view their Equifax credit report as well as manage existing credit freezes and fraud alerts.

myEquifax Mobile Application

To access the myEquifax mobile app, consumers can simply download it from the Apple App Store or on Google Play and then use their myEquifax  account to login. If a user does not have a myEquifax account, they can register for Equifax Core Credit , a free resource that will allow the user to access the mobile app.

The mobile app enables users who sign up with Equifax Core Credit to view their current VantageScore 3.0 credit score and also includes a "My Journey" section that helps consumers set credit score milestones and track their progress over time. Additional app features include the use of biometrics for secure authentication and access to Equifax Knowledge Center resources where consumers can learn more about how the credit system works. Consumers with a paid subscription will have access to their current features, which may include multi-bureau reports and scores as well as identity restoration services.

"Our Purpose is to help people live their financial best, and providing consumers with the resources they need to increase their financial capability is an important part of that commitment," said Aparna Shah, who leads the Direct to Consumer Business at Equifax. "The new myEquifax mobile app, powered by The Equifax Cloud , is designed to help people better understand their current credit position and empower them in their financial lives."

The Equifax Cloud is a top-tier global technology and security infrastructure backed by a more than $1.5 billion multi-year investment. The Equifax Cloud is one of the largest Cloud initiatives ever undertaken in the industry, and enables the development of solutions that are faster, more reliable, more powerful, and more secure than ever before.

In the months to come, the myEquifax mobile app will offer additional features such as tailored personal finance feedback and insights in the "My Journey" section to help users better understand their individual credit journey.

The myEquifax mobile app is available for download now in the Apple App Store and on Google Play .

Android and Google Play are trademarks of Google LLC

ABOUT EQUIFAX INC.

At Equifax (NYSE: EFX), we believe knowledge drives progress. As a global data, analytics, and technology company, we play an essential role in the global economy by helping financial institutions, companies, employers, and government agencies make critical decisions with greater confidence. Our unique blend of differentiated data, analytics, and cloud technology drives insights to power decisions to move people forward. Headquartered in Atlanta and supported by nearly 15,000 employees worldwide, Equifax operates or has investments in 24 countries in North America, Central and South America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific region. For more information, visit Equifax.com .

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Alexandra Packey for Equifax

[email protected]

SOURCE Equifax Inc.
Entrepreneur Of The Year celebrates ambitious entrepreneurs who are shaping the future

EAGAN, Minn., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Ernst & Young LLP (EY US) announced the finalists for the prestigious Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 Heartland Award. Now in its 40th year, the Entrepreneur Of The Year program celebrates the bold leaders who disrupt markets through the world's most ground-breaking companies, revolutionizing industries and making a profound impact on communities. The program honors bold entrepreneurs whose innovations shape the future and pave the way for a thriving economy and a hopeful tomorrow. The Heartland program celebrates entrepreneurs from Minnesota, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, North and South Dakota.

Shashi Yadiki, Smart Data Solutions, CEO

An independent panel of judges selected Shashi Yadiki among 30 finalists for their entrepreneurial spirit, purpose, growth and lasting impact in building long-term value.

"I'm honored to be a finalist in the Entrepreneur Of The Year program. At Smart Data Solutions, we've always believed that challenges are just opportunities in disguise. That entrepreneurship mindset has fueled our mission to simplify healthcare operations using AI, data, and automation so our clients can focus on what really matters: delivering better care. This recognition is for our team and their ability to turn bold ideas into transformative impactfor our clients and the future of healthcare."  Shashi Yadiki, CEO, SDS

Entrepreneur Of The Year honors business leaders for their ingenuity, courage and entrepreneurial spirit. The program celebrates original founders who bootstrapped their business from inception or who raised outside capital to grow their company; transformational CEOs who infused innovation into an existing organization to catapult its trajectory; and multigenerational family business leaders who reimagined a legacy business model to strengthen it for the future.

Regional award winners will be announced on Thursday, June 19, during a special celebration in Minneapolis and will become lifetime members of an esteemed community of Entrepreneur Of The Year alumni from around the world. The winners will then be considered by the National judges for the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Awards, which will be presented in November at the annual Strategic Growth Forum, one of the nation's most prestigious gatherings of high-growth, market-leading companies.

Sponsors

Founded and produced by Ernst & Young LLP, the Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards include presenting sponsors PNC Bank, Cresa, LLC, Marsh USA and SAP. In the Heartland, sponsors also include Twin Cities Business, Padilla and Brillect.

About Entrepreneur Of The Year

Founded in 1986, Entrepreneur Of The Year has celebrated more than 11,000 ambitious visionaries who are leading successful, dynamic businesses in the US, and it has since expanded to nearly 60 countries globally.

The US program consists of 17 regional programs whose panels of independent judges select the regional award winners every June. Those winners compete for national recognition at the Strategic Growth Forum in November where National finalists and award winners are announced. The overall National winner represents the US at the EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year competition. Visit ey.com/us/eoy .

About EY

EY is building a better working world by creating new value for clients, people, society and the planet, while building trust in capital markets.

Enabled by data, AI and advanced technology, EY teams help clients shape the future with confidence and develop answers for the most pressing issues of today and tomorrow.

EY teams work across a full spectrum of services in assurance, consulting, tax, strategy and transactions. Fueled by sector insights, a globally connected, multi-disciplinary network and diverse ecosystem partners, EY teams can provide services in more than 150 countries and territories.

All in to shape the future with confidence.

EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. Information about how EY collects and uses personal data and a description of the rights individuals have under data protection legislation are available via ey.com/privacy. EY member firms do not practice law where prohibited by local laws. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com.

About Smart Data Solutions (SDS)

As a technology leader in healthcare process automation and interoperability, SDS helps healthcare organizations digitally transform operations and delivers tangible value that includes reduced costs, streamlined workflows, and an improved customer experience. SDS has a specialized approach to data capture and automation, focusing on innovative solutions to meet the unique needs of the healthcare market. More than 500 clients including multiple Blue Cross Blue Shield plans, regional health plans, TPAs, providers and healthcare partners depend on SDS to help streamline complex parts of their front, middle and back-office operations.

Contact: Jay Tonsager, [email protected]

SOURCE Smart Data Solutions
New program will support small businesses, beautify public spaces, and engage the community

WASHINGTON, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A new emphasis on revitalization and community growth has begun for the Foggy Bottom and West End neighborhoods with the launch of Foggy Bottom West End Main Street. Part of the DC Main Streets Program, managed by the Department of Small and Local Business Development, the Foggy Bottom West End Main Street program aims to bring a wealth of new opportunities, vibrant events, and aesthetic improvements to these historic communities.

Foggy Bottom West End Main Street came to fruition thanks to members of the Foggy Bottom Association, who saw a need for a program dedicated to neighborhood revitalization, community engagement, and small business development.

"We've been working hard behind the scenes for the past few years to get this program funded and launched, and we're excited to start putting all our ideas into action to create a lasting, positive impact in the Foggy Bottom and West End communities," said Foggy Bottom Association Board Member Sadie Cornelius. "It has truly been a labor of love for our neighborhood, and in a time of global uncertainty, the passion and resilience of local support from the main streets gives the historic neighborhood a renewed sense of hope for the future. We're incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be DC's newest Main Street program and look forward to things to come."

Businesses in Foggy Bottom and the West End are facing unique challenges. Many local businesses in Foggy Bottom and the West End are fighting against market shifts, high rental rates, and a lack of exposure in a rapidly growing city.

"As a long-standing member of the Foggy Bottom community, Founding Farmers is proud to support the launch of the Foggy Bottom West End Main Street. We believe in the power of local partnerships to drive economic vitality and bring neighbors together," said David Ferguson, Managing Partner of Founding Farmers. "This program represents an exciting opportunity to reenergize our neighborhood, support small businesses, and make Foggy Bottom an even more welcoming place for residents and visitors alike."

The new program is dedicated to creating vibrant neighborhoods that attract businesses, shoppers, diners, and residents while maintaining the area's unique historic character. At the heart of the program's work will be hands-on support of local businesses and recruitment of new independent businesses to fill vacant spaces. The Main Street will also enhance and beautify public spaces throughout both neighborhoods with public art, plantings, and the maintenance of clean and safe streets. The program will unite people through events designed to increase foot traffic to the corridor and its small businesses.

"Establishing a Main Street in Foggy Bottom West End has been a priority of mine since I was first elected to the Council. Several years ago, I funded a study to determine the feasibility of bringing a Main Street to the area and that report strongly recommended establishing a Foggy Bottom West End Main Street program to serve local businesses," shared Councilmember Brooke Pinto. "Last year, I was proud to fund the establishment of the new Main Street program through the Department of Small and Local Businesses!"

As part of its launch, Foggy Bottom West End Main Street aims to raise $15,000 to support its work to provide small business assistance, revitalize the corridor, and organize community events.

Learn more at: www.FoggyBottomWestEndMainStreet.org .

About Foggy Bottom Main Street

Foggy Bottom West End Main Street is a program of the Foggy Bottom Association, as part of the DC Main Streets initiative. We bring the expertise of urban revitalization, community engagement, and small business development to help local businesses thrive. To learn more, visit www.FoggyBottomWestEndMainStreet.org .

SOURCE Foggy Bottom West End Main Street
ATLANTA, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Fusion Connect, a proven leader in cloud communications services, announces that the company has entered into a new NAV-based loan agreement with Hark Capital, providing Fusion Connect with a term loan of $85 million. The proceeds will be used for operating capital, to pay down existing debt, and to drive new strategic investments which will further accelerate Fusion's growth.

"We are thrilled to announce our new partnership with Hark Capital," said Brian McClintock, CFO of Fusion Connect. "This financing not only fortifies our foundation, but it also reflects the strong confidence our lenders and owners have in Fusion's future. With this capital infusion, we are now well financed to drive innovation, deliver exceptional value to our customers and partners, and execute on our strategic plans."

Fusion Connect's approach stands apart in the marketplace, blending one-vendor simplicity with a complete suite of communications services supported by an entirely US-based team of experts, for higher quality, faster time-to-resolution and all backed by an industry-leading 100% uptime guarantee for additional confidence. Fusion is an industry leader with expertise in meeting the connectivity and communication needs for mid-market and enterprise organizations, especially those with multi-location operations.

This new funding will enable the company to further invest in its talent, technology, infrastructure, customer service and products, ensuring the highest levels of customer satisfaction, from design to implementation to on-going support and personalized care. It will fuel growth and enhance our competitive advantage, for Fusion, for our customers, and for our valued channel partners.

For more information about Fusion Connect solutions and the Fusion Connect advantage, visit the company website and discover why hardworking businesses rely on Fusion Connect managed connectivity, networking and communications services to run their businesses.

About Fusion Connect

As a leading cloud communications provider, Fusion Connect takes pride in delivering a full suite of US-based managed services that remove all the complexity so customers can focus on running their business. We use our deep technical expertise and industry know-how to build the 'right-fit', best of class communications and collaboration solutions for our customers right here in the US. Fusion Connect is proven at delivering customer success for managed broadband access, UCaaS, CCaaS, SD-WAN, managed security, or Microsoft Teams solutions. Fusion Connect is unique in providing exceptional customer support backed by an industry-leading, uptime service guarantee. For more information on how to get started, visit Fusion Connect or connect with one of our experts at +1-888- 301-1721.

Press Contact:

Fusion Connect

[email protected]

About Hark Capital

Since 2013, Hark Capital has been providing innovative fund finance solutions to private equity sponsors and their portfolio companies, with a focus on NAV and management company facilities. Since inception, Hark Capital has deployed over $1.5 billion across 130+ transactions with 60+ sponsors across the US, Canada and Europe.

Press Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE Fusion Management Services, LLC
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In a historic development for global child protection, the World Jurist Association (WJA) has launched Justice for Children Worldwide, a ground-breaking initiative, dedicated to protecting children and ensuring access to justice for every child, everywhere.

The platform was officially introduced during the World Law Congress held in the Dominican Republic from 4th to 6th May, bringing together leading jurists, child rights advocates, and legal experts from across the globe.

Globally renowned lawyer and child rights activist Bhuwan Ribhu will lead the newly launched platformJustice for Children Worldwide. This is the first global initiative to unite legal experts, institutions, and governments in strengthening child rights through the rule of law. Under Ribhu's leadership, a powerful international network of lawyers and jurists will be built to combat crimes against children, protect and promote child rights, and strengthen legal responses across the globe.

"Justice for every child must be a global priority," said Bhuwan Ribhu. "Emerging borderless crimes demand a borderless response. Strengthening the rule of law for children is not only a basic rightit is essential for freedom, equality, and the future of civilization itself."

Justice for Children Worldwide will unite top legal minds globally to uphold and defend children's rights through impactful legal action. A core element is a high-level roster of senior lawyers offering pro bono support within their jurisdictions.

Beyond legal interventions, the platform will also focus on:

Training the next generation of legal professionals to engage fearlessly and sensitively in child protection.

Strengthening child-focused jurisprudence and access to justice mechanisms.

With over 60 years of global advocacy, the World Jurist Association remains one of the few organizations that engages such a broad spectrum of stakeholders to promote the Rule of Law as the foundation for peace and justice worldwide.

"This initiative, with Bhuwan at the helm, will deepen our understanding of the Rule of Law from diverse global perspectives. It is time to foster a culture of collaboration and partnership across borders, and ensure access to justice for every child," said Javier Cremades, President of WJA.

Bhuwan Ribhu also leads the largest legal intervention program, Just Rights for Children (JRC), focused on combating child sexual abuse and violence against children. Under his leadership, JRC has, in just the past two years, helped prevent over 300,000 child marriages and prosecute more than 54,000 traffickers.

SOURCE Just Rights for Children International
Equity Insider News Commentary

Issued on behalf of Lake Victoria Gold Ltd.

VANCOUVER, BC, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Equity Insider News Commentary  After surpassing $3,500 at the tail end of April, multiple institutions revised their forecasts for gold prices upward, with Deutsche Bank predicting $3,700-per-ounce gold as early as next year. Billionaire hedge fund manager John Paulson went further, predicting near-$5,000 gold by 2028. Following a short sluggish performance period, the gold price returned to $3,300, leading to gold mining stocks collectively strengthening again. On the ground, several gold miners are putting out solid news, with recent developments coming from Lake Victoria Gold (TSXV: LVG) (OTCQB: LVGLF), Galiano Gold Inc. (NYSE-American: GAU) (TSX: GAU), Centerra Gold Inc. (NYSE: CGAU) (TSX: CG), Omai Gold Mines Corp. (TSXV: OMG) (OTCQB: OMGGF), and i-80 Gold Corp. (NYSE-American: IAUX) (TSX: IAU).

After the world's biggest gold-buying market (China) returned from a holiday break, the price of gold has rallied, and fuelling gold miner stocks with it. As analysts see $4,000 gold in the near future, including JP Morgan projecting this as early as Q2 2026, Ed Yardeni at Yardeni Research is calling for this level by the end of the year. Canadian mining industry veteran Rob McEwen joins Paulson in believing gold will surge to $5,000 an ounce in the next 2-3 years, and fuelling a gold mining stocks boom along the way.

Lake Victoria Gold (TSXV: LVG) (OTCQB: LVGLF), a junior gold developer focused on East Africa, has just taken a meaningful step toward a potential near-term production opportunity. The company recently signed a non-binding Letter of Intent with Nyati Resources to evaluate a potential small-scale development partnership at its Tembo Project in Tanzania.

"We are excited by the potential to leverage existing processing infrastructure and local ore sources to create a scalable gold production platform in Tanzania," said Marc Cernovitch, President and CEO of Lake Victoria Gold. "This proposed partnership aligns with our strategy of unlocking near-term value while continuing to advance our core exploration assets."

The partnership under evaluation would bring together mineralized material from LVG's 100%-owned Mining Licences with Nyati's existing 120 tpd processing plant, plus a second 500 tpd facility now under construction. The plan envisions a dedicated operating company structured to meet the Tanzanian Government's 16% free carried interest framework. Both parties have entered a 60-day exclusivity window to complete due diligence and finalize terms.

This LOI builds on LVG's earlier disclosure that it was exploring small-scale development opportunities at Tembo, within the company's four Mining Licences.

While still in the early stages, this initiative is part of a broader strategy to assess near-term development options. The company notes that it is not underpinned by a current mineral resource estimate or Feasibility Study, and remains subject to meaningful technical and economic risks.

"Tembo has always stood out as a project with the potential to deliver both near-term value and long-term discovery upside," said Simon Benstead, Chairman and CFO of Lake Victoria Gold. "Evaluating this small-scale development opportunity allows us to test the system, generate operational insights, and potentially self-fund ongoing exploration. We believe this approach aligns well with our disciplined strategy and our commitment to responsible, phased development in Tanzania."

Bordering the prolific Bulyanhulu Mine operated by Barrick, the Tembo Project has benefited from over US$28 million in historical exploration, including more than 50,000 meters of drilling. Targets like Ngula 1, Nyakagwe Village, and Nyakagwe East remain open along strike and at depth, continuing to demonstrate strong geological potential.

While Tembo represents the company's long-term growth anchor, the Imwelo Project is positioned to be the first mover in LVG's portfolio. Acquired earlier this year, Imwelo is fully permitted and strategically located near AngloGold Ashanti's Geita Gold Mine. A 2021 pre-feasibility study and existing approvals suggest a potentially streamlined path toward construction.

To support its next phase of growth without issuing more shares, Lake Victoria Gold signed a non-binding gold prepay term sheet in late 2024 with Monetary Metals. The arrangement provides upfront capital now, in exchange for delivering a portion of future gold production at a modest discount. This non-dilutive structure aligns repayment with LVG's production timeline and outlines access to the value of up to 7,000 ounces of goldhelping fund construction and development at the Imwelo Project.

More recently, in February 2025, the company completed the initial tranche of a strategic, three-stage investment agreement with Taifa Group, raising C$3.52 million at C$0.22 per share. As part of the evolving partnership, Taifa's former CEO, Richard Reynolds, has joined the board of LVG.

LVG also retains exposure to long-term upside through its 2021 agreement with Barrick, which outlines up to US$45 million in potential milestone-based payments. Backed by development momentum at Imwelo, near-term optionality at Tembo, and strategic partnerships, the company is steadily positioning itself as a noteworthy player among East Africa's emerging gold developers.

With multiple growth levers in motionfrom exploration and joint ventures to funding agreements and project advancementLake Victoria Gold continues to build momentum in one of Africa's most prospective gold regions.

CONTINUED Read this and more news for Lake Victoria Gold at:

https://equity-insider.com/2025/04/14/with-funding-commitments-in-place-a-gold-mine-is-being-built-and-this-stock-is-still-under-0-20/

In other industry developments and happenings in the market include:

Galiano Gold Inc. (NYSE-American: GAU) (TSX: GAU) has uncovered a new high-grade zone at its Abore deposit, with drill results showing 50 metres at 3.15 g/t gold beneath the current pit design. Additional intercepts at Abore South confirmed strong grades and continuity, including 34m at 12.0 g/t and 27m at 6.7 g/t.

"The identification of a new high-grade zone beneath Abore Main and the extensions that have grown the Abore South high-grade zone from 90 meters to 180 meters long, underscore the substantial growth potential at Abore," said Chris Pettman, Galiano's Vice President of Exploration. "Mineralization remains open at depth throughout the entire 1,600m strike length, with these latest findings suggesting the Abore mineralizing system may be considerably more extensive than previously understood."

These results not only strengthen confidence in the current reserve model, but also point to the potential for future underground development. Galiano says establishing its first underground resource is a top priority in 2025.

Centerra Gold Inc. (NYSE: CGAU) (TSX: CG) recently updated the mineral resource at its Kemess project in British Columbia, now holding 2.7 million ounces of indicated gold and 971 million pounds of indicated copper. The 2024 drilling campaign has improved geological confidence and supported a shift to a longhole open stoping plan, replacing the previous block cave model. With existing infrastructure already in place, including a 50,000 tpd plant and 380km power line, Kemess could see reduced execution risk compared to greenfield projects.

"The updated mineral resource published today demonstrates robust mineralization in the highly prospective Toodoggone district in the northern interior of British Columbia," said Paul Tomory, President and CEO of Centerra Gold. "We are moving forward with a Preliminary Economic Assessment on Kemess, using an open pit and longhole open stoping underground mining concept, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2025."

At the end of March, Omai Gold Mines Corp. (TSXV: OMG) (OTCQB: OMGGF) reported multiple high-grade intercepts from its Wenot deposit in Guyana, including 10.40 g/t gold over 10.5m (capped), 2.13 g/t over 48.5m, and 3.83 g/t over 18.8m in hole 25ODD-101.

"These new Wenot results provide strong additions to our 2025 drill program focused on resource expansion," said Elaine Ellingham, President and CEO of Omai. "We believe the potential for value creation through the drill bit continues to be strong."

These latest results extend mineralization well below the 2024 resource and PEA pit shell. The company has expanded its 2025 drill program from 10,000m to at least 15,000m and is fully funded with C$30 million in the treasury.

i-80 Gold Corp. (NYSE-American: IAUX) (TSX: IAU) recently delivered a 67% year-over-year revenue increase in Q1 2025, selling nearly 5,000 ounces of gold at a record average price of $2,825/oz.

"At Granite Creek Underground, i-80 Gold's first gold project to ramp up, we are making good progress in our dewatering efforts, addressing groundwater inflows by enhancing our pumping capacity and upgrading the water treatment infrastructure," said Richard Young, President and CEO of i-80. "These improvements should allow us to ramp-up to steady state of gold output in the second half of 2025."

Development at Granite Creek advanced with improved dewatering infrastructure, while permitting progressed at Archimedes (Ruby Hill) and Cove. The company finalized PEAs for all five core projects, which collectively carry an after-tax NPV of $1.6 billion at $2,175 gold.

Article Source: https://equity-insider.com/2025/04/14/with-funding-commitments-in-place-a-gold-mine-is-being-built-and-this-stock-is-still-under-0-20/

CONTACT:

Equity Insider

[email protected]

(604) 265-2873

DISCLAIMER: Nothing in this publication should be considered as personalized financial advice. We are not licensed under securities laws to address your particular financial situation. No communication by our employees to you should be deemed as personalized financial advice. Please consult a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decision. This is a paid advertisement and is neither an offer nor recommendation to buy or sell any security. We hold no investment licenses and are thus neither licensed nor qualified to provide investment advice. The content in this report or email is not provided to any individual with a view toward their individual circumstances. Equity Insider is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Market IQ Media Group, Inc. ("MIQ"). This article is being distributed for Baystreet.ca media corp, who has been paid a fee for an advertising from a shareholder of the Company (333,333 unrestricted shares). MIQ has not been paid a fee for Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. advertising or digital media, but the owner/operators of MIQ also co-owns Baystreet.ca Media Corp. ("BAY") There may also be 3rd parties who may have shares of Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. and may liquidate their shares which could have a negative effect on the price of the stock. This compensation constitutes a conflict of interest as to our ability to remain objective in our communication regarding the profiled company. Because of this conflict, individuals are strongly encouraged to not use this publication as the basis for any investment decision. The owner/operator of MIQ/BAY own shares of Lake Victoria Gold Ltd and reserve the right to buy and sell, and will buy and sell shares of Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. at any time without any further notice commencing immediately and ongoing. We also expect further compensation as an ongoing digital media effort to increase visibility for the company, no further notice will be given, but let this disclaimer serve as notice that all material, including this article, which is disseminated by MIQ on behalf of BAY has been approved by Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. Technical information relating to Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. has been reviewed and approved by David Scott, Pr. Sci. Nat., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Scott is a registered member of the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) and is a Director of Lake Victoria Gold Ltd., and therefore is not independent of the Company; this is a paid advertisement, we currently own shares of Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. and will buy and sell shares of the company in the open market, or through private placements, and/or other investment vehicles. While all information is believed to be reliable, it is not guaranteed by us to be accurate. Individuals should assume that all information contained in our newsletter is not trustworthy unless verified by their own independent research. Also, because events and circumstances frequently do not occur as expected, there will likely be differences between the any predictions and actual results. Always consult a licensed investment professional before making any investment decision. Be extremely careful, investing in securities carries a high degree of risk; you may likely lose some or all of the investment.

SOURCE Equity Insider
Summary: Gotion is investing over $2 billion in U.S. battery manufacturing, creating thousands of jobs in Illinois and supporting America's clean energy goals amid U.S.-China trade tensions.

FREMONT, Calif., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Gotion Inc., a global leader in advanced lithium-ion battery technology and energy solutions, is reaffirming its commitment to America's clean energy future. By pioneering the onshoring of battery energy storage systems manufacturing, including electric vehicles, Gotion is demonstrating how economic growth, job creation, and resilient supply chains can thrive through international cooperation.

As the United States and China navigate a challenging trade environment, Gotion's expanding U.S. footprint stands as a testament to the benefits of engagement and mutual respect. The company's investments highlight how collaboration can deliver tangible benefits to communities and industries in both countries.

Accelerating U.S. Clean Energy Manufacturing: Local Sourcing, Workforce Investment, and Supply Chain Resilience

Gotion's investments are powering a new era of U.S. clean energy manufacturing, creating thousands of jobs and showcasing how U.S.-China economic collaboration can drive innovation and growth. By adopting a "Local for Local" strategy, Gotion's goal is to source the majority of materials and equipment from U.S. suppliers, strengthening domestic supply chains and supporting American businesses.

In Manteno, Illinois, Gotion's flagship $2 billion gigafactory is set to become the largest battery energy storage systems investment in Illinois history. Once complete, the 153-acre facility will produce 35 GWh of battery cells and 25 GWh of battery packs annually and is expected to create up to 2,600 new high-quality jobs in the region. The state-of-the-art facility is in final testing now, and is working towards full operations by the end of the year, supporting the rapid growth of the U.S. renewable energy and electric vehicle sectors.

"Our commitment goes beyond building factories  we are investing in people, communities, and the future of American manufacturing," said Mark Kreusel, Vice President of Manufacturing and Head of Gotion's Manteno plant. "By creating thousands of high-quality jobs, partnering with U.S. suppliers, and strengthening local economies, we are helping position America at the forefront of clean energy innovation."

Over 150 full-time employees have already joined the Manteno team. With ongoing job fairs and comprehensive training initiatives  including partnerships with regional community colleges  Gotion is preparing the local workforce for future-ready roles. As the facility enters its second phase, Gotion plans to hire approximately 700 contractors from the local construction and trades sectors to support continued development. With a dedicated R&D center in Independence, Ohio, near Cleveland, Gotion is quickly advancing next-generation battery technologies and supporting the U.S. transition to renewable energy.

Commitment to Transparency and Community Fuels American Clean Energy Leadership

"Gotion's commitment to transparency, collaboration, and community impact are at the heart of our U.S. operations," said Mark Kreusel. "We operate in full compliance with American laws and regulations, working closely with federal, state, and local stakeholders to forge robust partnerships that drive clean energy innovation and bolster American manufacturing." Through alliances with industry leaders and local suppliers, Gotion is advancing the onshoring of battery production, strengthening the domestic supply chain, and supporting the creation of sustainable career pathways for local residents.

A Pathway to De-escalation and Shared Prosperity

"Gotion's story shows what's possible when we work together," said Benjamin Howes, Managing Director of Gotion's U.S. Government Affairs. "We invite policymakers to see how investment, job creation, and clean energy leadership can deliver real results for American communities."

As both countries face the high costs of ongoing tariffs and strained communications, Gotion's approach offers a way forward: demonstrating that economic collaboration can deliver results without compromising national interests. "Gotion stands ready to serve as a catalyst for renewed engagement," said Benjamin Howes. "We support a future where the U.S. and China work together to address global challenges and drive sustainable growth."

About Gotion Inc.

Gotion Inc., headquartered in Fremont, California, is a global leader in lithium-ion battery manufacturing. Gotion is dedicated to advancing sustainable energy solutions and supporting America's clean energy future through innovation, investment, and local partnerships.

For more information about Gotion Inc. and its initiatives, please visit www.gotion.com

SOURCE Gotion
SINGAPORE, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- GRVT (pronounced "gravity"), the world's first licensed onchain exchange - is excited to announce its largest trading competition to date, running from May 7 to June 5, 2025. The competition offers retail traders the chance to win a share of up to 175,000 USDT and 85 million Trader Points.

GRVT Trading Competition

The event is open to all KYC-verified GRVT users and features a volume-based rewards system with nine reward bands and 15 prize levels. Participants will be rewarded based on their total trading volume during the competition period. The total reward pool will expand as the overall trading volume increases.

Early participants can also take advantage of special bonus rewards, and lucky traders will receive exclusive GRVT-branded merchandise.

Hong Yea, co-founder and CEO of GRVT, commented, "This trading competition marks the biggest event for our retail traders since our Mainnet launch at the end of last year. I am incredibly proud of what the team has delivered since Mainnet, and I'm grateful for the enthusiasm and support from our global community. We are committed to continuous improvement and look forward to bringing even more exciting opportunities to our users."

For full details about the GRVT Trading Competition, including the complete rules and reward structure, please visit: https://help.grvt.io/en/articles/11168184-grvt-trading-rush

Disclaimer: Perpetuals trading of cryptocurrencies is subject to high market risk and price volatility and you may be called upon at short notice to commit further margin deposits or risk being liquidated. This content is not a distribution of, or an offer or solicitation to provide, financial services or products, nor a representation as to their suitability or legality for you. GRVT is not a regulated entity and your funds are not subject to regulatory protection. Before making any decision based on this content, please seek financial and legal advice, and carefully review our Risk Disclosure and Disclaimer in full.

Singapore users: GRVT is not licensed, approved, authorised, designated, recognised, registered or otherwise regulated under any legislation administered by the Monetary Authority of Singapore ("MAS"). As such, users will not have the benefit of any regulatory safeguards imposed by the MAS.

About GRVT

GRVT (pronounced "gravity") is a blockchain-based platform that is democratizing how wealth is created and shared. It allows everyday people to trade, invest, and grow their wealth by providing direct access to top industry traders and investors. As the world's first licensed onchaindecentralized exchange, GRVT is where traditional banking meets decentralized innovation on one regulated, compliant, trustless financial market place.

GRVT official website: https://grvt.io/

For media inquiries, contact: [email protected]

Social and Community: X | LinkedIn | Telegram | Discord

SOURCE GRVT
Presented by NIKE and PVH Corp. | May 68, 2025

NEW YORK, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Harlem's Fashion Row (HFR) continues its mission to uplift and amplify underrepresented designers with the launch of its 7th Annual Designer Retreat, held May 68, 2025, in New York City. Sponsored by NIKE and PVH Corp., the parent company of Calvin Klein and TOMMY HILFIGER, this year's retreat welcomes 75 designers from across the country for an immersive, three-day experience focused on career growth, industry access, and community building.

The retreat kicks off today at PVH's global headquarters, where designers will participate in curated sessions led by top fashion executives and creatives. Key highlights from Day 1 include:

"From Vision to Legacy: A Fireside Chat with Brandon Blackwood"

Renowned designer Brandon Blackwood shares his journey of brand building, creativity, and cultural impact.

"What It Takes to Get Noticed, Land the Shelf, and Stay There"

An intimate conversation with Kevin Harter and Caroline Maguire, Senior Fashion Directors at Shopbop, offering strategic insight into retail success and longevity.

On Day 2, designers will embark on Industry Stopsa signature feature of the retreat. Participants will visit leading fashion and retail institutions, including Louis Vuitton, Foot Locker, NIKE, TOMMY HILFIGER, and Calvin Klein. These behind-the-scenes experiences will allow designers to meet executives, learn about diverse career pathways, and gain a rare look inside the inner workings of the industry's most influential brands.

The retreat concludes on Day 3 at NIKE's New York Headquarters, where the focus turns toward innovation and the future of fashion. Attendees will participate in workshops and interactive discussions designed to spark bold thinking and equip them with tools for sustained success.

"Our Designer Retreat is more than a learning opportunityit's a launchpad," said Brandice Daniel, Founder and CEO of Harlem's Fashion Row. "We are deeply grateful to NIKE and PVH for their continued partnership and commitment to championing designers of color. Together, we're shaping the future of fashion."

The Annual Designer Retreat remains a cornerstone initiative for Harlem's Fashion Row, which has supported and celebrated over 300 designers since its inception.

To learn more about Harlem's Fashion Row and the 7th Annual Designer Retreat, visit www.harlemsfashionrow.com .

SOURCE Harlems Fashion Row
This strategic partnership aims to usher in a new era of human-machine collaboration. The initiative will deliver prototype humanoids by the end of 2026, with field testing and full commercial deployment scheduled to begin in 2027.

Under the agreement, the four parties will collaborate to develop humanoids equipped with advanced AI and robotic systems capable of high-precision welding. The goal is to enhance productivity and improve workplace safety in shipyards.

Persona AI will lead the development of humanoid hardware and AI-based control and learning algorithms. Vazil Company will develop the welding tools and build the industrial testing environment. HD KSOE will support deployment in live shipyard settings and provide field engineering data. HD Hyundai Robotics will contribute welding-path AI training data and performance validation.

HD KSOE Senior Vice President Mr. Dong-ju Lee stated, "Welding humanoids will not only boost productivity but also significantly reduce the burden on workers and greatly enhance safety. By developing robots optimized for shipyard tasks, we aim to set a new paradigm in shipbuilding automation. Our goal is a smart shipyard where humans and intelligent robots collaborate seamlessly."

Persona AI CEO Nicolaus Radford added, "As heavy industry faces growing labor constraintsespecially in high-risk trades like weldingthe need for rugged, autonomous humanoid robots is more urgent than ever. This partnership with HD Hyundai and Vazil is more than symbolicdeploying to the shipyard is one of the largest real-world proving grounds for Persona's tough, humanoid robots.

HD Hyundai Robotics Vice President Mr. Young-hoon Song stated, " Unlike conventional robots that focus solely on repetitive tasks, these robots must be able to observe, reason, and make decisions. By leveraging HD Hyundai Robotics' extensive experience in robotic automated welding and engineering, we aim to develop an innovative humanoid welding solution."

Vazil Company CTO Sungwon Kim commented, "By developing humanoids capable of precision welding, we will elevate shipyard automation to the next level. We look forward to our manufacturing partnership with Persona AI to help them build and deploy to the Korean markets. This partnership marks a significant milestone in a global industrial robotics collaboration."

About HD Hyundai KSOE

HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (KSOE) is a global leader in shipbuilding and advanced marine engineering. It oversees HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, HD Hyundai Mipo, and HD Hyundai Samho. Learn more at hdksoe.co.kr .

About Persona AI

Persona AI develops embodied AI systems capable of working alongside humans in dangerous, high-impact environments. The company brings decades of experience in space- and ocean-grade robotics to real-world labor challenges. Learn more at http://www.personainc.ai

About HD Hyundai Robotics Corporation

HD Hyundai Robotics Corporation is a global leader in industrial automation and smart manufacturing solutions. A subsidiary of HD Hyundai, the company specializes in robotic systems for welding, assembly, and logistics across sectors including shipbuilding, energy, and heavy industry. hd-hyundairobotics.com

About Vazil Company

Vazil develops advanced automation, AI, and robotics solutions for industrial clients in South Korea and globally. Visit vazilcompany.com for more information.

SOURCE Persona AI Inc
New program unlocks thousands of acres of hard-to-reach public land by working with private landowners and outdoor brands who believe public land should be just thatpublic

CASPER, Wyo., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The backcountry just got a little closer. Working to give public land back to the public, Infinite Outdoors today announces the launch of Access Granted, a first-of-its-kind initiative giving outdoor enthusiasts legal access to public lands long locked behind private property.

Public land access is one of the biggest challenges for outdoor recreation in the United States. While more than 640 million acres of public land exist, nearly 16 million acres remain landlocked, surrounded by private property and legally unreachable to the general public, limiting access for outdoor recreationalists for generations. Through strategic partnerships with private landowners and conservation-driven outdoor brands like HUSH and Primos, Infinite Outdoors now provides walk-in access to these previously unreachable areas of BLM, state and national forest lands  and at no cost to the public, a game-changing move for hunters, anglers and campers who've long been shut out of these public lands.

"For decades, there has been debate around why there are millions of acres of public land that the public cannot access," said Sam Seeton, founder and CEO of Infinite Outdoors. "There's nothing more frustrating than knowing public land is right there yet having no way for the average person to legally get to it. We are passionate about public lands being public, and as such, built the Access Granted Initiative to fix this issue, using our own funds and industry partnerships to tear down the invisible fences and let people experience the land that was meant for all of us free of cost."

Infinite Outdoors, often called the "Airbnb for outdoorsmen," launched in 2020 and quickly became the largest platform in the U.S. for connecting sportsmen with private land access for hunting, fishing and recreation. With more than one million acres of private land listings across 16 states, the app gives DIY outdoorsmen a way to skip the crowds, avoid high-dollar guided trips and enjoy the land on their terms  with conservation at the heart of every access point.

The Access Granted Initiative builds on that mission, giving the public legal passage through private land by funding easements with landowners and providing daily access licenses to the public. The initiative's fund is powered by contributions from Infinite Outdoors' Access+ paid membership program and supported by partners like outdoor apparel brand HUSH and well-known hunting brand Primos. Landowners are compensated for providing access, and new public routes are available without costing users a dime. Beyond access, the initiative opens the door for better experiences and more inclusive recreation  from families looking for quiet campgrounds to new hunters eager to get started in a controlled, low-pressure environment.

As is the case with all Infinite Outdoors initiatives, conservation remains a top priority for Access Granted. In alignment with the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Infinite Outdoors assigns biologists to every participating property owner to ensure harvest quotas are sustainable and game populations stay healthy to avoid over harvesting and overpopulation simultaneously.

"Access Granted is one of the most important programs I've seen to date that will help shape the future state of hunting and the outdoors," said Casey Butler, founder of HUSH. "Opening up new opportunities to hunters and sportsman to enjoy public access through private lands, while also promoting responsible land use and smart wildlife management efforts, bodes well for the future of our sport."

By opening public lands, there are also more opportunities for conservation projects to guarantee the land for decades to come. To kick off the Access Granted Initiative, Infinite Outdoors has partnered with the Mule Deer Foundation and the first Access Granted property  a 600-acre parcel near Kaycee, Wyoming, that provides access to more than 40,000 acres of landlocked BLM  to launch a wildlife fencing project that protects critical habitat now open to the public for the first time in decades. The community conservation event will take place at the Andrus Draw Access Granted property on June 7 and is open to the public for volunteers.

At launch, nearly a dozen properties have signed onto the Access Granted Initiative across Wyoming and Colorado, unlocking more than 45,000 acres of new public land access  the equivalent of 60 square miles.

To explore the newly opened public lands or learn how to get involved in the Access Granted Initiative from a brand or landowner perspective, visit https://infiniteoutdoorsusa.com/.

About Infinite Outdoors

Infinite Outdoors is a Wyoming-based outdoor access and conservation platform committed to bridging the gap between private landowners and outdoor enthusiasts. Founded by lifelong outdoorsmen and land stewards, Infinite Outdoors empowers landowners to generate revenue from underutilized properties while providing hunters, anglers and recreationists with exclusive, responsible access to world-class outdoor experiences. Through cutting-edge technology, detailed mapping and a community-first approach, Infinite Outdoors delivers transparent, respectful, and conservation-minded outdoor opportunities. With initiatives like Access Granted, the company is leading the charge to unlock landlocked public lands and expand ethical outdoor access for all.

For more information, visit infiniteoutdoorsusa.com.

CONTACT: Tassi Keith, [email protected]

SOURCE Infinite Outdoors
Gen Z and Millennial Beauty Trends Take Center Stage in Inaugural Report Debuted at the Third Annual Ipsies Awards in NYC

LOS ANGELES, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- IPSY, the ultimate beauty membership and discovery platform, announced its first-ever Beauty Discovery Report at last night's The Ipsies: 2025 Beauty Awards. Created to uncover trends currently driving consumer shopping behaviors in beauty as well as provide a look at what products are rising to the top of the crowded marketplace, the 2025 Beauty Discovery Report draws on insights from its community of 20+ million beauty enthusiasts.

Patrick Starrr makes a surprise appearance at The Ipsies: 2025 Beauty Awards to collect the award for Best Cheek Product for ONE/SIZE. Danessa Myricks wins Most Innovative Brand for Danessa Myricks Beauty at The Ipsies: 2025 Beauty Awards. Zach Dishinger wins Best Indie Brand for Formula Z at The Ipsies: 2025 Beauty Awards.

Rising to the top of the report's findings is a notable shift in an interest in makeup artist-founded brands. Three out of five of the most popular brands at IPSY are founded by makeup artists, outperforming celebrity beauty lines among both Gen Z and Millennials. IPSY is predicting this significant market shift as an "MUA Movement" that will continue to drive purchase behaviors in 2025.

"Our data shows that consumers are craving credibility in a crowded market," said Kristy Westrup, Chief Merchandising Officer at IPSY. "In a sea of celebrity brands, makeup artist-founded brands bring technical expertise and authentic passion that resonates deeply with our beauty-obsessed community. This movement reflects consumers' growing trust in brands founded by professional makeup artists rather than celebrities, valuing their artistry-first approach and innovative formulas. This shift was noticeable at The Ipsies: 2025 Beauty Awards as well, where we were proud to spotlight six industry leaders reshaping the ecosystem as demonstrated by our consumers."

IPSY's 2025 Beauty Discovery Report report also identified micro beauty trends dominating the landscape this year. You can find the full report's findings on www.ipsy.com .

Gen Z Shifts Focus From Scents to Gloss: Gen Z is moving on from fragrances to lip products, signaling the category's growth potential.

Gen Z is moving on from fragrances to lip products, signaling the category's growth potential. The Maximalist Aesthetic Unites Beauty & Design: Art and design hubs like Chicago , Miami and San Antonio are bringing the maximalist decor trend into the world of makeup.

Art and design hubs like , and are bringing the maximalist decor trend into the world of makeup. Back to School Means Back to Bold: The ultimate back-to-school trend is a bold lip, illuminating how Gen Z is prepping their school year makeup routine.

The ultimate back-to-school trend is a bold lip, illuminating how Gen Z is prepping their school year makeup routine. The Hottest Product for Skin Right Now Is Serum: Beauty routines continue to get more "skinified." Serums and moisturizers are outperforming typical complexion makeup products like foundation.

"As a beauty platform built on exploration, we've always had our finger on the pulse of emerging trends and consumer preferences," said Francine Li, Chief Marketing Officer at IPSY. "The Beauty Discovery Report and The Ipsies: Beauty Awards transform our wealth of consumer insights into actionable intelligence for the industry while celebrating the brands and products our members love most."

The Ipsies: 2025 Beauty Awards Honor Community Favorites

In addition to the Beauty Discovery Report, IPSY revealed the winners of its third annual The Ipsies: Beauty Awards, which honor brands and products making the biggest impact on the IPSY community based on member reviews and popularity.

Demonstrating the increasing presence of the MUA Movement, multiple makeup artist-founded brands received top honors, including Danessa Myricks Beauty for Most Innovative Brand, Charlotte Tilbury's Beauty Skin Foundation for Best Complexion Product, and Zach Dishinger's Formula Z for Best Indie Brand.

Other standout winners included:

Best Serum: Byroe Hydrangea Tea Intensive Hydration Serum

Best Lip Product: Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer

Best Moisturizer: First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream

Best Scent: Commodity Juice Expressive

Member-Favorite Brand: Tarte

The awards ceremony was preceded by an exclusive industry forum featuring prominent beauty experts and brand leaders, including Divya Gugnani, CEO and Founder of Wander Beauty and 5Sens, Aliett Buttelman, Co-Founder of Fazit, and Andrea Kohlmeyer, VP of Marketing Operations at Tarte.

You can find the full list of winners from the night on the IPSY blog .

ABOUT IPSY

As the world's largest beauty subscription, IPSY delivers monthly drops of the greatest beauty discoveries and curated community favorites just for you. Uniting over 20 million hyper-engaged fans to a network of established and emerging brands, creators, and experts, IPSY is the only place that curates endless beauty finds to discover what's right for you. Whether you're a beauty enthusiast or just starting your journey, IPSY lets you experiment, evolve, and find new ways to express yourself with every box.

CONTACT: [email protected].

SOURCE IPSY
LONDON, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ --

30 July 2025  9 November 2025

Mount Fuji from Experience Japan Pictograms (c) Nippon Design Centre

Simple but powerful, the humble pictogram has become an indispensable, global communication tool, visible on everything from maps and street signs to text messages and dashboards.

Japan's role in progressing this type of visual language is undeniable, from the standards set for sporting pictograms in 1964, to the Japanese term 'emoji' being used to describe digital pictograms.

role in progressing this type of visual language is undeniable, from the standards set for sporting pictograms in 1964, to the Japanese term 'emoji' being used to describe digital pictograms. The exhibition delves into the long history of visual communication around the world, as well as the more contemporary process of creating a pictogram. It will examine what a world without pictograms would look like, as well as look at their important part they play in global tourism.

Pictograms are brought to life in two interactive sections, where visitors are invited to devise their own pictogram or become part of a pictogram themselves with 3D models.

The exhibition also features winning pictogram designs by primary school pupils local to Japan House London, asked to create something that represents 'their London '.

Pictograms from Experience Japan Pictograms (c) Nippon Design Centre

Japan House London announces its forthcoming exhibition, Pictograms: Iconic Japanese Designs opening on Wednesday 30 July 2025.

Pictograms are everywhere; on street signs and in text messages, on toilet doors and maps. They have transformed global travel, removing barriers by creating a visual language to be universally understood.

This brand new exhibition will shed light on the beauty and precision inherent in Japanese design, exploring the design of pictograms  both past and present  and their potential for international communication.

Pictograms have developed out of a long history of visual communication, stretching right back to cave paintings (over 15,000 years old) and ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs. Examples revealed in the exhibition, such as the Lascaux murals in France and carvings on ancient Egyptian tombs, demonstrate how this form of communication is present throughout human history.

Japan has played an important role in the development of pictograms, with designers from the Nippon Design Center creating the first full set of sporting pictograms in 1964 for the Tokyo Olympic Games, which went on to become the international standard for sporting events. Japan's pioneering role in the development of digital pictograms is also evident in the now ubiquitous Japanese word 'emoji' (e meaning picture and moji meaning character).

In 2019, the Nippon Design Center launched a new project, Experience Japan Pictograms, designed to enhance the experience of international visitors to Japan through a more comprehensive visual communication system. The project is a prime example of the creativity and precision inherent in Japanese design, offering visitors an unparalleled perspective on Japan's inimitable character and visual legacy.

As part of the exhibition, Japan House London has developed a competition called 'My London' inviting primary and secondary school pupils local to its Kensington High Street location to design their own pictogram, representing an aspect of London important to them. The winning designs will be featured as part of the exhibition.

An interactive section featuring 3D models of pictograms will offer guests the chance to bring the 2D symbols to life by becoming part of a pictogram themselves. There will also be the opportunity for visitors to design their own pictogram.

Mount Fuji from Experience Japan Pictograms (c) Nippon Design Centre

Simon Wright, Director of Programming at Japan House, said:

"How much information can a single image convey? Can it transcend language?"

"Whether on a mobile phone, car dashboard or fire escape, pictograms are part of everyone's daily lives, and Japan's impact on the development and popularity of these symbols cannot be overstated. Communicating with images has been a part of human activity for millennia and is hugely relevant today, arguably more so than ever in an increasingly globalized environment. Paring back communication to its simplest form, this exhibition shines a light on the most basic building blocks of design, and how we can strive to communicate more effectively across cultures."

This exhibition is produced in conjunction with the Nippon Design Center. The exhibition is due to appear at Japan House Los Angeles and Japan House Sao Paulo in 2026.

The Japan House London Pictograms exhibition is supported by Epson UK Ltd.

Notes to Editors

About Nippon Design Center

Nippon Design Center (NDC) is a multidisciplinary creative agency. It was established in Tokyo in 1959 to develop the Japanese economy through a design perspective.

Throughout the years, the company has been involved with major global projects including the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, and has played a key role in the growth of several large enterprises that lead the modern Japanese economy. Today, NDC is a global corporation that works not only in Japan, but also Asia, Europe and North America. Offices are located in Tokyo, Nagoya, Beijing, and Los Angeles.

About Japan House London

Japan House London is a cultural destination offering the best and latest from Japan. Located on Kensington High Street, the experience is an authentic encounter with Japan, engaging and surprising even the most knowledgeable guests. Presenting the very best of Japanese art, design, gastronomy, innovation, and technology, it deepens the visitor's appreciation of all that Japan has to offer. Part of a global initiative, there are two other Japan Houses, one in Los Angeles and the other in Sao Paulo.

Images can be downloaded here:

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2680642/Mount_Fuji.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2340450/JAPAN_HOUSE_London_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Japan House London
Karen Brennan appointed Chief Executive Officer of Leasing Advisory business globally

Kelly Howe to serve as next Chief Financial Officer of JLL

Appointments effective July 1, 2025

CHICAGO, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- JLL today announced the following senior leadership appointments, effective July 1, 2025.

Karen Brennan, who has served for the past five years as the company's Chief Financial Officer and sits on JLL's Global Executive Board, has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer of JLL's Leasing Advisory business globally.

Christian Ulbrich, President and CEO of JLL, said, "Throughout Karen's more than 25 year tenure at JLL she has taken on numerous leadership roles across the business globally, and exemplified strategic vision, excellence in execution and dedication to our clients. This appointment recognizes the contributions Karen has made to JLL's success, and our confidence in her ability to drive continued value for the stakeholders we serve."

Kelly Howe, currently Chief Financial Officer for JLL's Leasing Advisory business, will succeed Brennan as Chief Financial Officer. Howe joined JLL in January 2024 with more than 23 years of experience in professional services at Boston Consulting Group, most recently as their North America CFO. Upon becoming CFO, she will join JLL's Global Executive Board.

Ulbrich continued, "Since joining JLL, Kelly has distinguished herself through her combination of strategic insights and focus on execution, rapidly identifying key business drivers and developing enhanced analytics for decision making. We look forward to the great impact she will have as CFO and a member of our senior leadership team."

Andy Poppink, who currently serves as CEO, Leasing Advisory, will assume the role of CEO, Leasing Advisory, EMEA and APAC, reporting to Karen Brennan based out of Europe and step down from JLL's Global Executive Board.

Ulbrich concluded, "Andy is a tremendous leader whose deep relationships with clients and colleagues have had a meaningful impact on our company and our industry, and I look forward to continuing to work closely with him, Karen and the Leasing Advisory team."

About Karen Brennan

Karen Brennan has served as Chief Financial Officer of JLL since 2020. As a member of the Global Executive Board, she shapes and delivers JLL's strategic vision and transformation agenda.

Prior to becoming CFO, Karen spent 21 years in JLL's real estate investment management subsidiary, most recently as CEO of LaSalle Europe with overall responsibility for LaSalle's $22 billion AUM pan-European private equity real estate investment management business.

During the course of her more than 25 years of experience, Karen has lived and worked in the U.S., the U.K., Singapore and Hong Kong, with responsibilities across North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. She was previously a member of the LaSalle Investment Committees in North America, the U.K. and Europe.

Karen holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, Summa Cum Laude from Loyola University Maryland and an MBA from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

About Kelly Howe

Kelly Howe serves as Chief Financial Officer of JLL's Leasing Advisory business. Reporting to CFO Karen Brennan, she partners with global and regional leadership to drive performance, strategic initiatives and long-term financial growth, supporting both investor and occupier clients in achieving their real estate objectives.

Prior to joining JLL in 2024, Kelly built over two decades of experience in the professional services sector with Boston Consulting Group (BCG). At BCG, she held progressively more responsible roles, most notably serving as the first North America Chief Financial Officer. There, she spearheaded financial initiatives that fueled business growth, managed risk and optimized operational effectiveness across the region. Her work with BCG's Global and North America Finance teams encompassed a broad range of areas including business strategy, commercial acceleration and post-merger integration.

Kelly has an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from the University of Washington.

Contact: Jesse Tron

Phone: +1 212 376 1215

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE JLL-IR
China Joins the United States, India, Japan, Hong Kong, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, and Switzerland in Awarding Trademarks for the Jumptuit Logo and Brand

NEW YORK, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Jumptuit, an AI research and development company, announced today that the Trademark authorities of China have awarded Trademarks for the Jumptuit Logo and Brand.

As part of Jumptuit's ongoing IP protection, the Company has applied for and received international Trademark recognition for the Jumptuit logo and brand in internationally strategic markets from governments around the world.

"We are pleased to announce Trademark awards in China for Jumptuit's logo and brand in the Company's ongoing IP protection efforts," said Jumptuit Group Founder and CEO, Donald Leka. "This announcement comes as news of a potential thaw in U.S.-China trade relations is developing. China joins the United States, India, Japan, Hong Kong, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, and Switzerland in awarding Trademarks for the Jumptuit Logo and Brand."

About The Jumptuit Group

The Jumptuit Group (TJG) is an AI research and development company working in the emerging field of Anticipatory Intelligence.

The purpose of Anticipatory Intelligence is to observe and understand the antecedent elements of events, their movements and the forces among them, based on heightened sensory and spatial intelligence.

Our goal is to accelerate the anticipation of events that pose risks and opportunities to organizations and help policymakers and practitioners develop anticipatory strategies to improve stakeholder outcomes.

TJG is an interconnected network of subsidiary companies across geographies and sectors realizing synergies among them. TJG companies operate within the same technology, licensing, and business model framework, allowing for seamless deployment of product modules between the Operating Vertical Companies (OVCs).

About Anticipatory Intelligence: Forecasting Inflection Points for Geopolitical, Environmental, and Market Events

Introducing Anticipatory Intelligence, a reorientation in the development of Artificial Intelligence. Genesis J2T is a system of interlocking sector modules that perform continuous, live, and synchronized assessments of terrestrial, oceanic, and atmospheric conditions, human activities, and artificial systems to forecast systemic risk and market opportunities. Genesis J2T sector learning modules autonomously generate and share data, insights, and indicators with each other to provide realtime weighted cross-sector analysis of event risk.

Jumptuit Editorial Contact: Jordan Glass

Jumptuit

914.584.5022

[email protected]

SOURCE Jumptuit
YIBIN, China, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Kaiyi Auto has successfully held its Global Business Conference on April 28th. Themed "SAIL FOR FUTURE", which was grandly held in Yibin, China, and brought together nearly 200 distributors from over 50 countries and regions. On the occasion, Kaiyi Auto announced its new strategy for global market.

During the conference, Jia Yaquan, the Chairman of Kaiyi Auto, extended warm welcome to the attendees and outlined the company's five-year internationalization strategy in his speech.

IMAGE

Hu JunExecutive Deputy General Manager of Kaiyi Auto, made a more detailed arrangement in the following speech: "To realize the goal increasing of annual production and sales volume from 60,000 to 500,000, Kaiyi Auto must stick to its '55511' plan, focus on its core business, strengthen the brand image, and commit to long-term development." The '55511' plan refers to Kaiyi Auto's 5 targets by 2030: achieving annual production and sales volume at 500,000 vehicles; output value of 50 Billion CNY; profit and tax of 5 Billion CNY simultaneously; new energy vehicles accounting for half of the total sales; and more than half of the sales coming from exports.

The Deputy General Manager of Kaiyi Auto, Jiang Sheng said Kaiyi Auto will launch five new models in the next five years, as well as update current ones.

Mr. Jiang also emphasized that for production and sales, Kaiyi Auto plans to establish a production structure of 6 CKD + 13 SKD by 2030, with an annual production capacity exceeding 300,000 units. By expanding into 80+ countries and regions supported by 1,000+ sales and service branches, Kaiyi Auto aims to build a channel network system for an annual sales target at 300,000 units, thus striving to rank among top 10 Chinese auto brands in exports.

"The next five years will be a period of rapid expansion, innovation, and shared success." Han Ren, the deputy general manager of Kaiyi Auto and General Manager of Kaiyi Auto's International Trade Company said.

This conference is a milestone in the internationalization of Kaiyi Auto Moving forward, Kaiyi Auto will join hands with global partners to usher in more technical innovation and business cooperation, inviting more international consumers to appreciate the charm of China's intelligent manufacturing and products.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2681426/IMAGE.jpg
Campgrounds across North America prepare for a weekend of fun and fundraising on May 9-10, 2025

BILLINGS, Mont., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA) is preparing to host Care Camps Big Weekend at 376 participating campgrounds throughout North America. Now in its 18th year, the event kicks off camping season while raising funds for the Care Camps Foundation, which provides medically supervised pediatric oncology camps for children with cancer.

During the weekend, participating campgrounds will donate 50% of each camper's second-night stay to the Care Camps Foundation. Many of these campgrounds will also host special events and fundraising activities to raise awareness and give campers more ways to support Care Camps.

KOA Campgrounds & Care Camps Foundation team up to raise funds for pediatric cancer camps. Post this

"The Care Camps Foundation has always been near and dear to our hearts," said KOA's president and CEO Toby O'Rourke. "Every year, our campgrounds and campers eagerly anticipate this special weekend outdoors, all while backing a truly meaningful cause. Through this event  and alongside other fundraising efforts  KOA and our network of campgrounds collectively contribute over $1 million annually to support the Care Camps Foundation."

KOA campgrounds have been raising funds for Care Camps since 1984. These camps give children with cancer a chance to enjoy fun, friendship, and connection - allowing them to focus on being kids rather than their illness. The Care Camps Foundation supports more than 100 pediatric oncology camps across the U.S. and Canada.

"KOA's Big Weekend will greatly help us support over 120 camps for children with cancer across the U.S. and Canada," said Gwynn Sullivan, Care Camps Foundation Executive Director. "We are tremendously grateful for all the KOA campgrounds and campers who support our mission to give more joy, hope, and the healing power of the outdoors to these special children and their families."

To find out a participating KOA campground, please visit the Care Camps Big Weekend page on KOA.com.

For more information on the Care Camps Foundation, please visit carecamps.org.

ABOUT KAMPGROUNDS OF AMERICA, INC.

Kampgrounds of America, Inc. has been the definitive leader in outdoor hospitality for more than 60 years. United under the mission of "connecting people to the outdoors and each other," the company consists of two unique brands: KOA and Terramor Outdoor Resorts. KOA, the world's largest system of privately-owned, open-to-the-public campgrounds, consists of more than 500 franchised and owned campgrounds. With unrivaled brand visibility, KOA also offers campground owners and operators unparalleled support in campground education, design, recruitment, marketing and technology. Terramor Outdoor Resorts, a glamping venture, opened its first flagship property in Bar Harbor, Maine in 2020. Literally meaning "Love of Land," the brand focuses on delivering a refined and upscale outdoor experience. For more information, visit KOA.com and TerramorOutdoorResort.com.

About Care Camps Foundation: The Care Camps Foundation is dedicated to funding medically supervised pediatric oncology camps across the United States and Canada. They aspire to bring the healing power of community and the outdoors to children living with cancer and their families by partnering with the outdoor industry, other businesses, foundations, and individuals to fund the camps. Care Camps Foundation supports camps that are members of the Children's Oncology Camping Association (COCA) which oversees their quality assurance and professional development. Learn more, donate and be inspired at carecamps.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jenny McCullough

[email protected]

SOURCE Kampgrounds of America, Inc.
L2 Aviation introduces a New Era of Innovation, Integration, and Growth at CVG Airport

ERLANGER, Ky. and CINCINNATI, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- L2 Aviation, a leading supplier of global avionics services including engineering, certification, installation and manufacturing proudly hosted the grand opening of its new facility at 82 Comair Boulevard in Florence, Kentucky, marking a major milestone in the company's continued expansion and long-term commitment to innovation, manufacturing excellence, and customer service.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony brought together local and state dignitaries, industry partners, and members of the Northern Kentucky community to celebrate the next chapter of L2 Aviation's journey. The event was highlighted by remarks from Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) CEO Larry Krauter, and key executives from L2 Aviation, each underscoring the economic and technological impact this facility will have on the region.

"This new facility is more than just a building," said L2 Aviation CEO Mark Lebovitz. "It's a launchpad for innovation, collaboration, and growth, not only for our business, but for the aviation industry and the Northern Kentucky workforce."

The state-of-the-art location at CVG Airport will serve as the central hub for L2's engineering, manufacturing, and remote modification services. The facility is designed to support the company's vertically integrated growth strategy, including the production of L2 branded avionics products and future acquisitions in aerospace manufacturing and technology.

"We are creating an ecosystem here in Kentucky where engineering, certification, manufacturing, and field services come together under one roof," said Tony Bailey, Chief Operating Officer of L2 Aviation. "Our goal is to deliver unmatched responsiveness, reliability, and innovation to our global customers."

L2's expansion into Northern Kentucky is expected to create dozens of high-quality jobs and bring critical aviation capabilities to the region. The company also emphasized its ongoing investment in employee development, community involvement, and long-term partnerships with local institutions and suppliers.

The event concluded with guided tours of the facility, live demonstrations of L2's technical capabilities, and an opportunity for guests to meet the teams driving the company's success.

Founded in 1997, L2 Aviation is a trusted leader in avionics engineering, integration, and modification services. With its new facility operational, L2 is poised to redefine the future of aviation support and manufacturing from the heart of Kentucky.

About L2 Aviation

L2 Aviation Solutions, LLC., doing business as L2 Aviation, provides global aircraft modification support services including avionics engineering, system design, repair, certification, kitting and installation for Avionics Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM), airline, government, military and business aviation customers. L2 Aviation specializes in complex avionics certified designs, integrated solutions and remote installations focused on reducing down-time and mitigating crew workload. L2 Aviation makes great airplanes BETTER! Learn more at www.l2aviation.com.

Contact:

L2 Aviation

***@l2aviation.com

512-894-3414

Photos:

https://www.prlog.org/13075582

Press release distributed by PRLog

SOURCE L2 Aviation
BENTON HARBOR, Mich., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Nationally recognized law firm Levy Konigsberg obtained a federal court ruling yesterday that revives civil rights claims against the City of Benton Harbor and other defendants responsible for exposing children to lead-contaminated water in the Benton Harbor Water Crisis. Levy Konigsberg also represents children similarly injured in the Flint Water Crisis, and announced this Benton Harbor court ruling as the latest development in the firm's advocacy for children harmed by lead-contamination in public water systems.

According to Levy Konigsberg's federal lawsuits, the City of Benton Harbor, Michigan, exposed the most vulnerable members of the communityyoung childrento extremely high levels of lead in their public water supply. This Benton Harbor Water Crisis lasted over three years and resulted in life-changing, irreversible brain injuries for the children of Benton Harbor.

In 2022, attorneys from Levy Konigsberg brought civil rights and state law claims against the City of Benton Harbor, the State of Michigan, and the private engineering firms alleged to have created, prolonged, concealed, and worsened the Benton Harbor Water Crisis.

Each of the defendants filed motions to dismiss the case, raising legal defenses such as immunity and other doctrines. Levy Konigsberg attorneys, led by Corey Stern and Melanie Daly, challenged these efforts, ultimately bringing the case to the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.

Yesterday, in a momentous and lengthy published opinion, the Sixth Circuit ruled that the citizens of Benton Harbor's constitutional body integrity claims should be reinstated against the City of Benton Harbor and its officials. The Court also ruled that the state law claims against the engineers could proceed to the District Court for decision on supplemental jurisdiction, and that Levy Konigsberg attorneys could seek leave to amend their civil rights claims against the state of Michigan.

As to the City of Benton Harbor and its employees Mayor Marcus Muhammad, City Manager Darwin Watson, and former Drinking Water Superintendent Michael O'Malley the Court found that these "city officials misled the public about the nature of the lead-water crisis from the moment the lead-level exceedance was discovered." Indeed, the Court explained that:

"City officials downplayed the scale of the emergency and advised people to drink the tap water replete with lead. Rather than working earnestly to resolve the problem, the City officials skirted recommended guidelines and sought to minimize lead-water testing. And when they began to implement a solution to the problem, the City officials provided the public with a recklessly rosy picture of the progress made, leading the public to think the problem was being resolved when, in fact, the water was still too dangerous to drink." (emphasis added)

The Court additionally set forth powerful precedent, striking down arguments that the actions and inactions of the Benton Harbor defendants must exactly match the facts from the Flint Water Crisis in order to continue to trial and succeed. The Court explained that: "plaintiffs alleging violations of the right to bodily integrity arising from drinking lead-contaminated water do not need to set forth factual allegations identical to the extraordinary mismanagement in the Flint Water Crisis to prevail."

In commenting on the legal decision, Melanie Daly, Partner at Levy Konigsberg, stated:

"This well-reasoned decision not only permits the children of Benton Harbor to move forward in their fight for accountability and justice, but also sets an important legal precedent regarding civil rights claims based on children's unknowing and dangerous exposure to lead from their public water systema silent danger that is unfortunately-ever present in some of the most underserved populations in the Country."

Levy Konigsberg has become one of the leading national voices in the fight for justice on behalf children lead poisoned by drinking water from public water systems. The firm has filed hundreds of similar cases across the country and was instrumental in the legal proceedings related to the Flint Water Crisis Settlement.

Media Inquiries & Contact Information:

Reporters and journalists seeking interviews or additional information are encouraged to contact Attorney Corey Stern and Melanie Daly via the firm's contact page:

https://www.levylaw.com/contact-us/

SOURCE Levy Konigsberg
WASHINGTON, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Lupus advocates from across the country gathered in Washington, DC for the National Lupus Advocacy Summit, held May 4-6. Hosted by the Lupus Foundation of America (LFA), the Summit is the largest lupus advocacy event in the nation, bringing together hundreds of lupus warriors to meet with their members of Congress to urge them to protect access to care and invest in lupus research. Thousands more joined the Summit online, amplifying the call for Congress to support the lupus community.

Throughout the Summit, advocates engaged with lupus experts, connected with peers, and gained valuable insights into the latest advances in lupus research, policy and care. During meetings with Congress, LFA advocates shared their personal lupus journeys and called for action on key priorities, including:

Protecting access to Medicaid, a vital lifeline for health care for 20-25% of Americans with lupus.

Sustaining and increasing funding for critical lupus-specific research, awareness and education programs, including:

 $15 million for the Lupus Research Program at the Department of Defense (DoD)

 $20 million for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National Lupus Patient Registry

 $3 million for the National Lupus Training, Outreach & Clinical Trial Program at the Office of Minority Health (OMH)

 $51.3 billion for the National Institutes of Health, which is the single largest source of lupus research funding

Medicaid plays a critical role in providing access to specialists, medications, and life-saving treatments for people living with lupus. Continued investment in federal lupus research, awareness, and education programs is essential to driving scientific discoveries and bringing us closer to better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.

"This year's Summit comes at a pivotal moment for the lupus community," said Louise Vetter, President & CEO of the Lupus Foundation of America. "Protecting access to Medicaid and strengthening federal funding for lupus research programs is critical to improving the lives of the estimated 1.5 million Americans living with lupus. Without continued investment, we risk losing momentum in the fight against this devastating disease. The Summit is the perfect platform for lupus advocates to use their powerful voices to speak with their members of Congress about why lupus must remain a national priority so that people with lupus are never left behind."

The National Lupus Advocacy Summit also celebrated outstanding leaders in the lupus community. During the Lupus Heroes Reception, two exceptional advocates were recognized for their contributions:

The 2025 Barlin Family of the Year Award was presented to Jill Nelson and her father, Andrew Logie , whose steadfast commitment to the lupus community has made a lasting impact. Jill began her involvement through the LFA's Virtual 6 Challenge campaign and the Hartford Walk to End Lupus Now, and now serves as an LFA Ambassador and advocate. Together, Jill and Andrew have been generous champions of lupus research  most notably supporting groundbreaking studies in mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) therapy. Their support has helped shape the direction of the LFA's national research efforts, including the MiSLE study, which recently completed enrollment.

was presented to and her father, , whose steadfast commitment to the lupus community has made a lasting impact. Jill began her involvement through the LFA's Virtual 6 Challenge campaign and the Hartford Walk to End Lupus Now, and now serves as an LFA Ambassador and advocate. Together, Jill and Andrew have been generous champions of lupus research  most notably supporting groundbreaking studies in mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) therapy. Their support has helped shape the direction of the LFA's national research efforts, including the MiSLE study, which recently completed enrollment. The 2025 Sandra C. Raymond Advocate of the Year Award was awarded to Sanjay Mishra and his daughter Arya, who have been dedicated lupus advocates since Arya's diagnosis at age 9. As Advocacy Co-Chair for the Pacific Northwest, Sanjay has worked closely with the LFA and helped build a strong relationship with his elected officials through consistent outreach and community engagement. Arya continues to inspire others with her advocacy, and together they've led impactful efforts like their recent Bollywood Bounty fundraiser, which brought local leaders and supporters together to raise awareness for lupus.

The Lupus Foundation of America extends its deepest gratitude to its Board of Directors, donors, and the following organizations whose support helped make the 2025 National Lupus Advocacy Summit possible: AstraZeneca, Biogen, Bristol Myers Squibb, Genentech, GSK, and PhRMA.

About the Lupus Foundation of America:

The Lupus Foundation of America is the only national force devoted to solving the mystery of lupus, one of the world's cruelest, most unpredictable, and devastating diseases, while giving caring support to those who suffer from its brutal impact. Through a comprehensive program of research, education, and advocacy, we lead the fight to improve the quality of life for all people affected by lupus.

About Lupus:

Lupus is an unpredictable and misunderstood autoimmune disease that ravages different parts of the body. It is difficult to diagnose, hard to live with, and a challenge to treat. Lupus is a cruel mystery because it is hidden from view and undefined, has a range of symptoms, hits out of nowhere, and has no known cause and no known cure. Its health effects can range from a skin rash to a heart attack. Lupus is debilitating and destructive, and can be fatal, yet research on lupus remains underfunded relative to its scope and devastation.

MEDIA CONTACT

Mike Donnelly

World Lupus Federation

[email protected]

SOURCE Lupus Foundation of America, Inc.
C$ unless otherwise stated TSX/NYSE/PSE: MFC SEHK: 945

TORONTO, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - Manulife's Board of Directors today announced a quarterly common shareholders' dividend of $0.44 per share on the common shares of Manulife, payable on and after June 19, 2025, to shareholders of record at the close of business on May 21, 2025.

In respect of the Company's Canadian Dividend Reinvestment and Share Purchase Plan and its U.S. Dividend Reinvestment and Share Purchase Plan, the Company will purchase common shares on the open market in connection with the reinvestment of dividends and optional cash purchases under these plans. The purchase price of these common shares will be based on the average of the actual cost to purchase them and there are no applicable discounts.

About Manulife

Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider, helping our customers make their decisions easier and lives better. With our global headquarters in Toronto, Canada, we operate as Manulife across Canada, Asia, and Europe, and primarily as John Hancock in the United States, providing financial advice and insurance for individuals, groups and businesses. Through Manulife Wealth & Asset Management, we offer global investment, financial advice, and retirement plan services to individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. At the end of 2024, we had more than 37,000 employees, over 109,000 agents, and thousands of distribution partners, serving over 36 million customers. We trade as 'MFC' on the Toronto, New York, and the Philippine stock exchanges, and under '945' in Hong Kong.

Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulife.com.

Media Contact:

Fiona McLean

Manulife

437-441-7491

[email protected]

Investor Relations:

Hung Ko

Manulife

416-806-9921

[email protected]

SOURCE Manulife Financial Corporation
NEW ORLEANS, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Acoustical Society of America will host three virtual press conferences Tuesday, May 20. The ASA and ICA joint meeting will be held May 18-23 at the New Orleans Marriott, and reporters are invited to join technical sessions.

ASA and ICA will offer in-person sessions throughout the week and host livestreamed press conferences. The press conferences will feature a wide range of newsworthy sessions from the upcoming meeting. Media can listen to presentations on the sounds of flowers and pollinators, clinical artificial intelligence for speech disorders, coral reef preservation, and more.

Press releases for a selection of topics will be shared under embargo the week of May 12, and conference highlights can be found on social media by searching the #ASA188 hashtag.

Journalists may pre-register at https://live.webcastplatform.com/go/asa, and video recordings of the press conference sessions will be available upon request.

ASA188 Press Conference Schedule - Tuesday, May 20 Learn more about all meeting sessions via ASA's meeting page and in the technical program. (topics/times subject to change)

Tuesday, May 20, 9 a.m. CT

Laying the Groundwork to Diagnose Speech Impairments in Children with Clinical AI - Marisha Speights , Northwestern University 1aCA2: Transforming child speech data into clinical-grade artificial intelligence pipelines for speech-language impairment detection, Monday, May 19 , 8:20 a.m. CT





- , 1aCA2: Transforming child speech data into clinical-grade artificial intelligence pipelines for speech-language impairment detection, , Remotely Moving Objects Underwater Using Sound - Dajun Zhang , University of Wisconsin-Madison 2pPAb7: Metamaterial-assisted acoustic manipulation of large objects in water, Tuesday, May 20 , 3:20 p.m. CT





- , 2pPAb7: Metamaterial-assisted acoustic manipulation of large objects in water, , Sound Insulation Tiles To Help Calm Crying Kindergarteners - Ikuri Matsuoka, Kumamoto University 5pAA3: A field experiment on the effect of sound absorption on acclimation of new children to kindergarten - Part 1: Analysis of crying children and indoor noise levels, Friday, May 23 , 1:40 p.m. CT





- Ikuri Matsuoka, Kumamoto University 5pAA3: A field experiment on the effect of sound absorption on acclimation of new children to kindergarten - Part 1: Analysis of crying children and indoor noise levels, , Reducing Underwater Noise When Installing Subsea Structures - Junfei Li , Purdue University 2pSA1: Foldable Acoustic Metamaterial for Underwater Broadband Low-frequency Noise Mitigation, Tuesday, May 20 , 1 p.m. CT

Tuesday, May 20, 11 a.m. CT

Sounding Out Coral Larval Settlements - Oceane Boulais, University of California, San Diego 4aAB6: Field demonstration of enhanced coral larvae settlement using acoustic enrichment, mesoscale artificial structures, and engineered biofilms, Thursday, May 22 , 9:20 a.m. CT





- Oceane Boulais, 4aAB6: Field demonstration of enhanced coral larvae settlement using acoustic enrichment, mesoscale artificial structures, and engineered biofilms, , Can Plants Hear Their Pollinators? - Francesca Barbero , University of Turin 3aAB1: Vibroacoustic signals produced by flower visitors and their role in plant-insect interactions, Wednesday, May 21 , 9 a.m. CT





- , University of 3aAB1: Vibroacoustic signals produced by flower visitors and their role in plant-insect interactions, , Here Comes the Boom! Studying the Effects of Rocket Launch Sonic Booms on Neighboring Communities - Kent Gee , Brigham Young University 1pNS4: Falcon-9 ascent sonic boom measurements in Ventura County, California , Monday, May 19 , 2:20 p.m. CT





- , 1pNS4: Falcon-9 ascent sonic boom measurements in , , Lay Language Paper Highlights - Keeta Jones , Acoustical Society of America Acoustics Lay Language Papers (LLPs) are 300-500-word summaries of meeting presentations written by scientists for a general audience. A sampling of LLPs will be discussed (with multimedia provided).

Tuesday, May 20, 2 p.m. CT

Helping Noisy Data Centers Fit Into Residential Neighborhoods - Gregory Miller , Cerami and Associates 1aAAa4: Noise control strategies for Data Centers near residential communities, Monday, May 19 , 8:05 a.m. CT





- , Cerami and Associates 1aAAa4: Noise control strategies for Data Centers near residential communities, , Using Sound To 'See' Unexploded Munitions on the Seafloor - Connor Hodges , University of Texas at Austin 1aUW2: Acoustic scattering from inert underwater munitions with severe corrosion damage, Monday, May 19 , 8 a.m. CT





- , 1aUW2: Acoustic scattering from inert underwater munitions with severe corrosion damage, , ASA Jam Session Preview Join ASA for a special event on Wednesday, May 21 , 8 p.m. CT .

----------------------- MORE MEETING INFORMATION -----------------------

ASA PRESS ROOM

In the coming weeks, ASA's Press Room will be updated with newsworthy stories and the press conference schedule at https://acoustics.org/asa-press-room/.

LAY LANGUAGE PAPERS

ASA will also share dozens of lay language papers about topics covered at the conference. Lay language papers are summaries (300-500 words) of presentations written by scientists for a general audience. They will be accompanied by photos, audio, and video. Learn more at https://acoustics.org/lay-language-papers/.

PRESS REGISTRATION

ASA will grant free registration to credentialed and professional freelance journalists. If you are a reporter and would like to attend the in-person meeting or virtual press conferences, contact AIP Media Services at [email protected]. For urgent requests, AIP staff can also help with setting up interviews and obtaining images, sound clips, or background information.

ABOUT THE ACOUSTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA

The Acoustical Society of America is the premier international scientific society in acoustics devoted to the science and technology of sound. Its 7,000 members worldwide represent a broad spectrum of the study of acoustics. ASA publications include The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America (the world's leading journal on acoustics), JASA Express Letters, Proceedings of Meetings on Acoustics, Acoustics Today magazine, books, and standards on acoustics. The society also holds two major scientific meetings each year. See https://acousticalsociety.org/.

ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL COMMISSION FOR ACOUSTICS

The purpose of the International Commission for Acoustics (ICA) is to promote international development and collaboration in all fields of acoustics including research, development, education, and standardization. ICA's mission is to be the reference point for the acoustic community, becoming more inclusive and proactive in our global outreach, increasing coordination and support for the growing international interest and activity in acoustics. Learn more at https://www.icacommission.org/.

This news release was issued on behalf of Newswise. For more information, visit http://www.newswise.com.

Media Contacts: AIP Media

301-209-3090

[email protected]

SOURCE Acoustical Society of America (ASA)
MONTREAL, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - Metro Supply Chain has once again been recognized as one of Canada's Best Managed Companies, reaffirming its position as a leader in supply chain innovation and performance. This marks the fifth time the company has received this distinguished award, celebrating a legacy of excellence over 50 years.

"This achievement is a testament to the remarkable culture and dedication our team demonstrates daily," stated Chris Fenton, Group President and CEO of Metro Supply Chain. "Founded by our Group Chairman, Chiko Nanji, our organization has consistently been driven by a growth mindset and an emphasis on serving our customers with agility and innovation. It is an honour to accept this award on behalf of our 9,000 team members across more than 175 sites in North America and Europe."

Canada's Best Managed Companies program honours privately owned Canadian businesses that demonstrate outstanding strategy, capability and commitment to achieving sustainable growth. The 2025 Best Managed cohort exemplifies bold leadership, innovation and resilience, helping to strengthen the Canadian economy and shape the future of global business.

"Over the 32-year history of these awards, Canadian companies have shown resilience and adaptability through economic highs and lows, and this year is no different," said Lorrie King, national co-leader of Canada's Best Managed Companies program and partner with Deloitte Private. "We are honoured to recognize this year's Best Managed Companies across Canada, who excel in all aspects of their business. These companies all help drive Canada's productivity and innovation, which bolsters our economy, so it's important to recognize their accomplishments and showcase them as examples and inspiration to the broader business community."

About Metro Supply Chain

Metro Supply Chain partners with some of the world's most respected and fastest-growing companies to deliver custom, data-driven supply chain solutions. Powered by advanced systems and technologies, its integrated services support complex distribution needs across 19 million square feet of managed space. With a presence in over 175 sites across North America and Europe, Metro Supply Chain is one of Canada's largest privately owned supply chain companies, recognized for its strategic excellence and strong community values.

About Canada's Best Managed Companies

Canada's Best Managed Companies continues to be the mark of excellence for private Canadian-owned and managed companies. Every year since the launch of the program in 1993, hundreds of entrepreneurial companies have competed for this designation in a rigorous and independent process that evaluates their management skills and practices. The awards are granted on four levels: 1) Canada's Best Managed Companies new winner; 2) Canada's Best Managed Companies winner; 3) Gold Standard winner; 4) Platinum Club member. Program sponsors are Deloitte Private, CIBC, EDC, The Globe and Mail, and TMX Group. For more information, visit www.bestmanagedcompanies.ca.

SOURCE Metro Supply Chain
Aspinwall Pump Station Renovations, Bruecken Pump Station Replacement and Clearwell Bypass to renew key pumping capacity and improve treatment reliability

PITTSBURGH, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, consulting and advisory services, today announced that the firm has been selected by Pittsburgh Water to provide Construction Management and Inspection (CMCI) Services for the ABC (Aspinwall, Bruecken, Clearwell) Project. This effort will include substantial renovations to the Aspinwall Pump Station, the complete replacement of the Bruecken Pump Station and an in-ground pipeline bypass of the Clearwell at the Water Treatment Plant. The $193 million ABC Project will be completed as part of the Water Reliability Plan, a series of multi-generational projects that will modernize the water distribution system throughout Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and provide customers with more secure and reliable water services. Work will begin in August 2025 and continue through 2029.

"Safe and resilient water distribution is essential for public well-being. Under the larger Water Reliability Plan, this project will modernize and enhance the city's water distribution system to ensure secure, reliable and high-quality water services for its residents," said John Robinson, Office Executive  Pittsburgh at Michael Baker International. "Our team brings extensive large-scale and complex project experience and expertise to the ABC project. By partnering with Pittsburgh Water to provide CMCI services for this project, Michael Baker will establish the infrastructure needed to reliably deliver quality water for future generations."

"We are looking forward to a productive partnership with Michael Baker International as we begin this crucial water infrastructure project," said Will Pickering, CEO at Pittsburgh Water. "With projects of this magnitude, diligent construction management and inspection will be integral to meeting our project deadlines in an efficient and professional manner."

As the largest component of the Water Reliability Plan, the ABC Project will allow for the future replacement of the 100-year-old Clearwell structure. This project is a critical component to enhance water safety and reliability for Pittsburgh residents, reduce service disruptions and succeed in upgrading essential water infrastructure.

The Aspinwall Pump Station Renovations will introduce four new pumping units, replace the existing fluoride chemical feed building and implement electrical upgrades, in addition to building renovations to the historic building.

The Bruecken Pump Station Replacement will involve constructing a new pump station adjacent to the current facility. This new station will house six pumps, receive electrical upgrades and include a new electrical substation. The existing station is planned for future repurposing.

The Clearwell Bypass will establish a large-diameter, in-ground piping system bypassing the 44-million-gallon Clearwell. This system will allow filtered water from the Pittsburgh Water Treatment Plant Filter Building to flow directly to the Aspinwall and Bruecken Pump Stations. Additionally, an overflow structure equipped with de-chlorination equipment will be constructed.

About Michael Baker International

Michael Baker International is a leading provider of engineering, consulting and advisory services spanning five distinct Verticals: Infrastructure, Design-Build Services, Federal Programs and Services, Consulting and Technology Solutions (CTS) and Integrated Design and Advisory (IDA). The firm's Practices encompass all facets of infrastructure, including design and civil engineering for diverse bridge, highway, water, rail and transit and aviation projects, as well as planning, architecture, environmental and construction and program management. For 85 years, the company has been a trusted partner to clients, providing comprehensive services and solutions, delivering expertise and quality, and embracing emerging technologies and the latest innovations  like intelligent transportation, engineered models and public safety software as a service (SaaS).

The company has more than 4,900 employees across more than 90 office locations. Michael Baker's Wolf Pack is committed to Making a Difference for clients and communities through a culture of innovation, collaboration and technological advancement while evolving its business to become a full-service engineering and consulting firm.

To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.

Contact: Julia Covelli

[email protected]

(866) 293-4609

SOURCE Michael Baker International
Partnership expands FarmBeats for Students program to all 50 states to help grow next generation of farmers

REDMOND, Wash., May 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Microsoft Corp. and the National FFA Organization on Tuesday announced the national expansion of FarmBeats for Students, a cutting-edge educational program integrating smart sensors, data science and artificial intelligence (AI) to teach precision agriculture in classrooms. Starting today, FFA teachers and students throughout the United States, including FFA chapters in 185 middle and high schools, will receive a classroom set of FarmBeats for Students kits free of charge. The kits include ready-to-use sensor systems along with curriculum for teachers and are designed for classrooms of all kinds; no prior technical experience is required.

More and more farmers are adopting advanced technology, including automating systems such as tractors and harvesters and using drones and data analysis to intervene early against pests and disease, to maximize crop yield, optimize resource usage, and adjust to changing weather patterns. Gaining hands-on experience with machine automation, data science and AI will help American agricultural students remain competitive in the global market.

Using the FarmBeats for Students kits and free curriculum, students build environmental sensor systems and use AI to monitor soil moisture and detect nutrient deficiencies  allowing them to understand what is happening with their plants and make data-driven decisions in real time. Students can adapt the kit to challenges unique to their region  such as drought, frost and pests  providing them with practical experience in tackling real-world issues in their hometowns.

"Microsoft is committed to ensuring students and teachers have the tools they need to succeed in today's tech-driven world, and that includes giving students hands-on experience with precision farming, data science and AI," said Mary Snapp, Microsoft vice president, Strategic Initiatives. "By teaming up with FFA to bring FarmBeats for Students to students across the country, we hope to inspire the next generation of agriculture leaders and equip them with the skills to tackle any and all challenges as they guide us into the future."

"Our partnership with Microsoft exemplifies the power of collaboration in addressing industry needs while fostering personal and professional growth among students," said Christine White, chief program officer, National FFA Organization. "Supporting agricultural education and leadership development is crucial for shaping the next generation of innovators and problem solvers. Programs like this equip students with technical knowledge, confidence and adaptability to thrive in diverse and evolving industries. Investing in these young minds today sets the stage for a more sustainable, innovative and resilient agricultural future."

In addition, teachers, students or parents interested in FarmBeats for Students can purchase a kit for $35 at this link and receive free training at Microsoft Learn.

Any educator interested in implementing the FarmBeats for Students program can now access a new, free comprehensive course on the Microsoft Educator Learn Center, providing training on precision agriculture, data science and AI, allowing teachers to earn professional development hours and badges.

FarmBeats for Students was co-developed by Microsoft, FFA and agriculture educators. The program aligns with the AI for K-12 initiative guidelines; Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources career standards; Computer Science Teachers Association standards; and Common Core math standards.

For more information about FarmBeats for Students, visit aka.ms/FBFS.

About National FFA Organization

The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,027,200 student members as part of 9,235 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

About Microsoft

Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT" @microsoft) creates platforms and tools powered by AI to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. The technology company is committed to making AI available broadly and doing so responsibly, with a mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.

SOURCE Microsoft Corp.
WASHINGTON, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Milbank LLP is pleased to announce that John G. Green has joined its Washington, DC office as a partner in the firm's Global Project, Energy and Infrastructure Finance Group.

"We're excited to welcome John to Milbank," said Milbank Chairman Scott A. Edelman. "His depth and breadth of experience, especially his experience representing sponsors and tax credit buyers in the renewable energy sector, will be invaluable to our clients and the firm."

John Green

Mr. Green concentrates his practice on federal tax planning and controversy, advising clients on complex tax issues that arise in both domestic and international contexts. His work spans a wide array of industries, including real estate, energy, financial services and private investment. He has broad experience structuring tax-efficient transactions involving partnerships and corporations, and routinely provides guidance to clients on M&A, joint ventures, restructurings and fund formations.

A core focus of Mr. Green's practice is devoted to the energy sector, where he helps clients navigate the tax structuring of investments across traditional and renewable energy assets. He has extensive experience representing sponsors and tax credit buyers in the renewable energy sector and regularly helps clients capitalize on emerging clean energy opportunities while guiding them through the complex and evolving landscape of related tax incentives. His deep understanding of both energy policy and tax law enables him to provide strategic advice that aligns tax planning with regulatory compliance and long-term business objectives.

"We are proud to have one of the most active and prestigious tax-related renewables practices of any firm, and John will be a critical part of our continued growth, especially on the sponsor side," said Dan Bartfeld, chair of Milbank's Global Project, Energy and Infrastructure Finance Group. "His deep industry insights and collaborative approach will bring immediate value to our clients."

"As the domestic renewables sector evolves, tax expertise has become a critical aspect of virtually all renewables-focused transactions, from financings to M&A," commented Global Project, Energy and Infrastructure Finance partner Mike Duff. "We are thrilled to welcome John to the team and further strengthen our top tier renewables platform."

"Milbank's energy and renewables practice is widely regarded as one of the most preeminent practices globally," said Mr. Green. "I look forward to working closely with this market-leading team to help clients navigate the intricate tax and financing frameworks shaping the energy sector."

Mr. Green joins Milbank from King & Spalding, where he was a partner in the Tax Group. He received his J.D., magna cum laude, and LL.M. in taxation from New York University School of Law, where he was awarded the Harry J. Rudick Memorial Award for excellence in taxation. He earned his Master of Science from the London School of Economics and received his B.A. in Economics from Davidson College, cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa.

ABOUT MILBANK

Milbank LLP is a leading international law firm that provides innovative legal services to clients around the world. Founded in New York over 150 years ago, Milbank has offices in Frankfurt, Hong Kong, London, Los Angeles, Munich, New York, Sao Paulo, Seoul, Singapore, Tokyo and Washington, DC. Milbank's lawyers collaborate across practices and offices to help the world's leading commercial, financial and industrial enterprises, as well as institutions, individuals and governments, achieve their strategic objectives. To learn more about Milbank, please visit www.milbank.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.

SOURCE Milbank LLP
This BEV model represents a huge step in the Company's recently announced Momentum 2030 product strategy for the U.S. market

The new BEV will be sold alongside the Outlander Plug-in Hybrid, the world's first plug-in hybrid SUV 1

The new BEV will be sourced from Mitsubishi Motors' Alliance partner, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., and based on the next-generation Nissan LEAF

Announcement reinforces strength of the Momentum 2030 long-term North American business plan

FRANKLIN, Tenn., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) today confirmed the next step in the brand's march toward its North American business plan, dubbed Momentum 2030. Among other commitments, the plan promised the launch of "a new or significantly revised vehicle every year between 2026 and 2030." That promise has already started with the recent debut of the new 2025 Outlander SUV.

Mitsubishi Motors Momentum 2030 Lineup

Today's announcement confirms that Mitsubishi Motors will work with its Alliance partner, Nissan Motor Co. Ltd., to bring a battery electric vehicle (BEV) to market in the United States and Canada. The vehicle will be based on the next-generation Nissan LEAF, and will be available starting in summer 2026, at dealer partners across both countries. More details about the vehicle, including naming, imagery, technical specifications, pricing and on-sale timing will be the subject of future announcements.

"Mitsubishi Motors is on an upward trajectory, especially in the United States," said Mark Chaffin, president and CEO, MMNA. "When we launched the Momentum 2030 long-term business plan to our dealer partners last May, there was a buzz in the room about an exciting future, but there was a desire for more concrete timing and plans. Today's announcement is the first of many to come that reinforce our commitment to the U.S. market, to providing the best vehicles we can for our customers, and ensuring a long and healthy future for our company in the U.S. and globally."

Chaffin continued, "Momentum 2030 is more than a business plan, it is a rallying cry for our company, for our employees, for our dealer partners, and for our loyal and new customers. Our plan is clear, our path is mapped out. The addition of this new battery-electric vehicle to our lineup will deliver a blend of internal combustion engines, plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles, so that our customers have the choice of technology that best suits their needs."

The path to Mitsubishi Motors Momentum 2030 is defined by four key points:

A path to electrification

A path to a renewed and expanded product line-up that will strengthen Mitsubishi Motors in North America

A path to a modernized retail sales model

A path to network expansion and sales growth

For more information on the full lineup of Mitsubishi vehicles, visit MitsubishiCars.com

DISCLAIMERS

Based on S&P Global Mobility New Registrations of plug-in hybrid and all SUV body styles dating back to Jan 2013 compiled from governments & other sources (where available). Captures 95% of global new vehicle volumes in more than 80 countries.

ABOUT MITSUBISHI MOTORS NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Through a network of approximately 330 dealer partners across the United States, Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is responsible for the sales, marketing, and customer service of Mitsubishi Motors vehicles in the U.S. MMNA's recently announced five-year business plan  "Momentum 2030"  outlines the brand's mid-term intentions for product and business transformation. MMNA will expand and refresh its vehicle lineup in the U.S. with one new or completely refreshed model to debut each year between now and 2030. Powered by a selection of advanced-technology internal combustion engines, hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and battery electrics, the product line will nearly double from today's four vehicles. Momentum 2030 also includes a vision for a modernized retail sales model and plans for network expansion and sales growth.

MMNA has its headquarters in Franklin, Tennessee, as well as corporate operations in California, Georgia, Michigan, and New Jersey.

For more information on MMNA, visit media.mitsubishicars.com .

Contact

Jeremy Barnes

Senior Director, Communications and Events

[email protected]

Mobile: 615-970-8395

SOURCE Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
Leadership transition and new organizational structure reinforce commitment to core technology and enhanced governance

SAN FRANCISCO, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Movement Labs, a Web3 company and core contributor of the Movement Network, today announced the establishment of Move Industries by two Movement employees. The newly formed Move Industries has been established to ensure a more simplified and focused operational structure, including new executive leadership.

Torab Torabi, a founding member of Move Industries, will lead the company as CEO. In addition, Will Gaines will serve as President and Chief Marketing Officer and Young Yang Liauw will continue overseeing engineering. Mr. Liauw brings significant blockchain engineering expertise from his time at Aptos as Head of Move along with positions at Novi and Meta, where he worked on the Libra team.

Move Industries is committed to maintaining Movement's position as a leading Move-based blockchain ecosystem. Move Industries' three core pillars are Community/Brand, Engineering/Product, and Ecosystem/Business Development. The new endeavor will operate with enhanced accountability measures, providing a stronger foundation for the Movement ecosystem's future growth and success.

"Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Movement," said Torabi. "We are putting in place the structures needed for our company to thrive, which includes a full commitment to our ecosystem builders and community. They are at the heart of everything we do. Our team remains heads down, improving chain performance, increasing economic activity on-chain, and supporting the incredible projects being built on the Movement Network. We will continue full steam ahead to fulfill our promises."

Movement Labs has also terminated Co-Founder Rushi Manche.

Additionally, Co-Founder Cooper Scanlon is voluntarily passing the torch to Torab Torabi, to lead Move Industries.

"It has been an incredible journey bringing the Movement vision to life and I'm immensely proud of what we've built together," said Scanlon. "Torab has been instrumental to Movement's development from the beginning, and I have complete confidence in his leadership abilities and vision for the future. I will continue to support the Movement and advocate as the team writes this next chapter."

Move Industries will operate under improved governance, including expanded board oversight and transparent decision-making processes.

"The Movement community has stood with us through both triumph and challenge," said Gaines. "With Move Industries, we're returning to our founding principles: self-sovereignty, creativity, and systems that serve people. This next chapter will ensure we continue building world-class infrastructure, world-class businesses and a world-class movement."

About Move Industries

Move Industries is building a community-first Move-based blockchain ecosystem. Led by a team of industry veterans, Move Industries maintains a dual focus on technology and community. The organization intends to return to crypto's radical roots: giving financial power and opportunity back to the people.

SOURCE Movement Labs
HONG KONG, May 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited ("NetDragon" or the "Company"; Hong Kong Stock Code: 0777), a global leader in building internet communities, is pleased to announce its participation in the 8th Digital China Summit, recently held in Fuzhou, Fujian Province. As a participant for the eighth consecutive year, NetDragon showcased its latest advancements under its core strategies of "AI + Gaming" and "AI + Education." By responding to the "Digital China" strategy, NetDragon continues to leverage AI to empower the gaming, cultural tourism, and education industries, contributing to the high-quality development of the digital economy.

At the summit, NetDragon demonstrated the integration of technology and culture through innovative digital cultural-tourism projects. Among the highlights was the "Fantasy Ride WuyiNine-Bend Roaming" VR horse-riding simulator, which utilizes cutting-edge digital scanning, drone technology, 3D modeling, and Unreal Engine technology to recreate the iconic landscapes of Wuyi Mountain, including Nine-Bend Stream and Dawang Peak. This immersive VR experience allows visitors to explore the scenic beauty of the ancient Tea Route. This project is also part of the "Digital Shanhai: Reimagining Fujian Tourism through Games" initiative, co-launched with Xinhua News and Information Center and other partners, to promote Fujian's tourism through gamification. Additionally, NetDragon introduced "Fubao," an AI-powered digital character representing Fujian's "Fu (Fortune)" culture. Fubao, along with the Company's virtual CEO Tang Yu, made their debut as "AI tourism ambassadors," engaging attendees in real-time Q&A about Fujian's tourism attractions and unique culture. This demonstration underscores NetDragon's expertise in AI-driven content generation and gamified interactive experiences, creating value through the synergy of gaming and cultural tourism.

In the education sector, NetDragon unveiled its vision for future learning with the intelligent education service institution EDA and the self-learning tool "Future Lab," reinforcing its vision of a personalized, global learning ecosystem. EDA leverages advanced AI technologies to deliver customized learning experiences, spanning across the full spectrum of lifelong learning. "Future Lab," as part of the EDA ecosystem, aims to provide immersive learning experiences for middle and high school students in subjects such as math, physics, and chemistry. NetDragon is also advancing the development of "interactive educational games" that prioritize learner-driven engagement and immersive learning, redefining traditional teaching methodologies, and enriching EDA with high-quality content.

In recent years, NetDragon has advanced its strategy of integrating education and industry by expanding its vocational education efforts internationally and nurturing eSports talent. During the summit, NetDragon co-hosted a China-Thailand collegiate eSports friendship match with Fuzhou Software Technology Vocational College (FSTVC), providing a platform for cultural exchange while demonstrating NetDragon's innovative approach to exporting vocational education services. Through its industry-education integration model and joint programs, FSTVC is exploring new revenue streams. Notably, NetDragon's vocational education project in Thailand was included in the "Thousand Sails Going Global" initiative in 2024, led by China's Ministry of Commerce together with five other ministries, marking a significant milestone in the Company's global industry-education integration efforts.

In collaboration with Rokid, NetDragon also showcased its AI + AR innovations at the summit. By integrating "Fubao" into Rokid's AR glasses, attendees were able to explore virtual experiences of Wuyi Mountain, digital art galleries, and polar molecular structures. Rokid, a key strategic investment project of NetDragon, specializes in developing AR hardware and software ecosystems. NetDragon is building an "AI + AR" content ecosystem, leveraging AR applications across gaming, education, and tourism to create immersive digital experiences.

As part of its ongoing commitment to the "Digital China" initiative, NetDragon continues to expand its "Digital Smart+" innovation approach, promoting the integration of digital technologies across the economic, cultural, social, and ecological development. Looking ahead, NetDragon is committed to working with global partners in education, cultural tourism, and digital creativity to drive further growth in the digital economy and contribute to the development of new digital economic advantages.

About NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited

NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited (HKSE: 0777) is a global leader in building internet communities with a long track record of developing and scaling multiple internet and mobile platforms that impact hundreds of millions of users, including previous establishments of China's first online gaming portal, 17173.com, and China's most influential smartphone app store platform, 91 Wireless.

Established in 1999, NetDragon is one of the most reputable and well-known online game developers in China with a history of successful game titles including Eudemons Online, Heroes Evolved, Conquer Online and Under Oath. In the past 10 years, NetDragon has also achieved success with its online education business both domestically and globally, and its overseas education business entity, currently a U.S.-listed subsidiary named Mynd.ai, is a global leader in interactive technology and its award-winning interactive displays and software can be found in more than 1 million learning and training spaces across 126 countries.

For investor enquiries, please contact:

NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited

Ms. Maggie ZhouSenior Director of Investor Relations

Email: [email protected] / [email protected]

Website: ir.netdragon.com

SOURCE NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited
BEVERLY, Mass., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A new national survey conducted by Highland Electric Fleets finds that voters and parents strongly associate electric school buses with better student mental health, particularly for children with special needs or sensory sensitivities. The findings reflect a growing understanding of how school transportation affects student well-being and readiness to learn.

Two-thirds of U.S. parents (67%) believe that reducing stressors like diesel fumes and noise during the school commute can help support their child's emotional and academic success. This sentiment is echoed more broadly: 70% of voters say a calmer ride is important for students' mental health, and among parents, that number rises to 81%.

"We can't talk about student mental health without addressing their surroundings and routineand that includes their transportation experience to and from school," said Ross Szabo, mental health speaker and the CEO of Human Power Project. "A calmer, quieter school bus experience is a simple way to cut down on stress, help kids show up ready to learn, and set a more relaxed tone for the start and end of their day."

When asked which type of bus better supports students' mental health, voters were four times more likely to choose electric over diesel. Concern about diesel exposure is common, with two-thirds of voters expressing at least some concern, including 71% of mothers.

Support is even stronger when respondents consider students with sensory sensitivities or who are neurodivergent. Many view the quieter, smoother ride of electric buses as a meaningful way to reduce sensory stress and create a more inclusive experience. For these students, and for others, there is also growing recognition that reducing exposure to diesel exhaust can contribute to a healthier ride overall.

"It's encouraging to see so many parents recognizing the benefits electric school buses bring to students," said Duncan McIntyre, Founder and CEO of Highland Electric Fleets. "At Highland, we're proud to partner with school districts across the country to help transition fleets from diesel to electric, because it's not just about cleaner air and lower emissions, it's about providing a calmer, healthier, and quieter ride that helps set students up for success."

About Highland Electric Fleets

Highland Electric Fleets is North America's leading provider of electrification-as-a-service. Founded in 2019, Highland makes it simple and affordable to transition fleets of all sizes to electric, from school buses to public safety, municipal and commercial vehicles.

Highland led the first use of electric school buses in a commercial vehicle-to-grid (V2G) program and operates the largest electric school bus project in the U.S. With approximately 95% of school buses built in the U.S., the shift to electric drives American innovation, strengthens domestic manufacturing, and creates jobs in communities across the country in addition to reducing emissions and lowering operating costs. Learn more at www.highlandfleets.com.

Methodology

The April 2025 Echelon Insights Verified Voter Omnibus was fielded online from April 10-14, 2025, in English among a sample of N=1,014 voters in the Likely Electorate (LE) nationwide using non-probability sampling. The sample was weighted to reflect modeled turnout and demographic characteristics of the population of voters in the 2024 likely electorate based on a probabilistic model derived from the L2 voter file and the US Census Bureau's American Community Survey demographic data adjusted to match voter registration estimates from the November 2020 Current Population Survey Voting and Registration Supplement. Weighting dimensions included gender, age, race/ethnicity, education, region, party, and voting history. Data quality measures included the use of trap questions to check for attentiveness and measures to prevent and remove duplicate responses based on IP address and voter file matches. Calculated the way it would be for a random sample and adjusted to incorporate the effect of weighting; the margin of sampling error is +/- 3.5 percentage points.

Media Contact

Chris Orlando | Highland

[email protected]

SOURCE Highland Electric Fleets
RALEIGH, N.C., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The North Carolina Community College System is partnering with Goldman Sachs to launch 10,000 Small Businesses across the state, as part of Goldman Sachs' $100 million national Investment in Rural Communities.

For 15 years, 10,000 Small Businesses has provided free, practical business education, access to capital, and tailored support services to help entrepreneurs grow. In 2023, Goldman Sachs expanded the initiative into rural communities across 20 states, with North Carolina now among the latest to benefit.

File Photo

"This partnership with Goldman Sachs reflects our system's deep commitment to supporting small businesses as the engines of North Carolina's economy," said John Loyack, Vice President for Economic Development at the System. "We're proud to provide a platform that brings world-class resources to entrepreneursparticularly those in rural and underserved communitiesthrough our statewide network of colleges."

"Small businesses are the backbone of North Carolina's economy, driving growth and innovation throughout the state. We are thrilled to bring our education program to entrepreneurs across North Carolina," said Anne Wellde, national director of Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses. "Together, we can equip small business owners with the tools they need to thrive and create jobs in their communities."

The free program teaches practical skills like marketing, negotiation, and employee management, all while guiding participants through the creation of a customized growth plan. Graduates also join a robust national network of peers and alumni.

"The Small Business Center Network is uniquely positioned to connect entrepreneurs with the training and support they need," said Anne Shaw, State Director of the North Carolina Small Business Center Network. "This collaboration with Goldman Sachs is a natural extension of the work we do every day in communities across the state, and it's an exciting opportunity to strengthen the impact we have."

Early results show strong outcomes for rural participants since completing the program:

68% reported increased revenue

60% created new jobs

85% feel more resilient

68% plan to use the 10KSB network to grow

Applications are open now through June 15 for the North Carolina cohort starting in September. The three-month program is delivered in a hybrid format and fully funded by the Goldman Sachs Foundation.

LEARN MORE AND APPLY HERE.

SOURCE North Carolina Community College System
Grants support innovative projects to eliminate roadway deaths

WASHINGTON, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Safety Council announced the 2025 recipients of the Road to Zero Community Traffic Safety Grants, funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to support initiatives working to eliminate preventable traffic deaths.

The grants are awarded annually to programs, projects and research making meaningful progress toward zero roadway fatalities. NHTSA projects that 39,345 people died in traffic crashes in 2024. This represents a decrease of about 3.8% compared to the 40,901 fatalities reported in 2023 and marks the first time since 2020 that the number of fatalities fell below 40,000. Despite this improvement, the numbers still indicate an ongoing safety crisis on our nation's roads.

"We must work together to address this persistent public health crisis," said Mark Chung, executive vice president of safety leadership and advocacy at NSC. "These grants empower local initiatives essential to creating safer roads for all  pedestrians, cyclists, drivers and passengers alike. With NHTSA's support, NSC is proud to champion organizations making a lasting impact in communities nationwide."

The 2025 grantees include:

Mobridge Regional Hospital & Clinics, "Improving GIS Mapping Tools to Reduce Post-Crash Response Times in Rural South Dakota"

Wayne State University , Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, "Bridging the Urban-Suburban Safety Gap: A Data-Driven Approach to Pedestrian Safety on Overlooked Suburban-Type Arterials in Detroit "

, Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, "Bridging the Urban-Suburban Safety Gap: A Data-Driven Approach to Pedestrian Safety on Overlooked Suburban-Type Arterials in " University of Texas at San Antonio , "A Geospatial Artificial Intelligence (Geo-AI) Tool for Proactive Crash Prevention"

, "A Geospatial Artificial Intelligence (Geo-AI) Tool for Proactive Crash Prevention" Colorado Whole Blood Coalition, "West Metro Fire Rescue Prehospital Whole Blood Program"

Regents of the University of Michigan , "Exploring Vehicle Technologies to Address Pedestrian Injuries: Focusing on SUVs and Pickup Trucks"

of the , "Exploring Vehicle Technologies to Address Pedestrian Injuries: Focusing on SUVs and Pickup Trucks" John Hopkins University, "Enhancing Safety and Injury Prevention in Highly Automated Vehicles Through Digital Twin Technology and AI-Driven Design"

The grants are awarded through the nation's largest traffic safety coalition, the Road to Zero Coalition, an NSC-managed program created in a collaborative effort with the U.S. Department of Transportation. Road to Zero focuses on preventing roadway deaths through its key pillars of doubling down on what works with evidence-based strategies, advancing new technologies, and promoting a culture of safety through a Safe System Approach. The USDOT National Highway Traffic Safety Administration renewed funding for Road to Zero through September 2026 last fall.

The 2025 cohort was the most competitive since the grants were first awarded in 2017, with over 170 applicants for funding. Applications for next year's grants open in fall 2025. Find more information about funding, previous recipients, eligibility requirements and how to apply at nsc.org/RTZgrants. To learn more about Road to Zero or become a member for free, visit nsc.org/roadtozero.

About the National Safety Council

The National Safety Council is America's leading nonprofit safety advocate  and has been for over 110 years. As a mission-based organization, we work to eliminate the leading causes of preventable death and injury, focusing our efforts on the workplace and roadways. We create a culture of safety to not only keep people safer at work, but also beyond the workplace so they can live their fullest lives.

Connect with NSC:

Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

YouTube

Instagram

SOURCE National Safety Council
WASHINGTON, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Oklahoma's Gov. Kevin Stitt is a man of his word. Gov. Stitt told attendees at the NSSF SHOT Show Governors' Forum that if state lawmakers would send the Firearm Industry Nondiscrimination (FIND) Act to his desk, he would sign it.

NSSF celebrates Gov. Stitt signing the law to prevent "woke" corporate banks with discriminatory policies against firearm industry members from collecting taxpayer dollars through state contracts. Oklahomans will choose to do business with those companies that do not discriminate based on an industry these corporate banks may not like or with which they disagree.

Gov. Stitt signed SB 500, the NSSF-priority FIND Act into law, which prohibits state agencies and local government entities from entering into contracts with corporations that discriminate against the firearm industry.

"Governor Stitt delivered on his promise that Oklahoma would only do business with entities that respect the lawful commerce of arms in the Sooner State." said Darren LaSorte, NSSF's Director, Government Relations  State Affairs. "By signing the FIND Act, Governor Stitt is signaling to our industry that Oklahoma is now a place where firearm industry members are welcomed with open arms."

Oklahoma's FIND Act, sponsored by state Sen. Casey Murdock and state Rep. Kevin West, will require all large corporations seeking contracts valued at $100,000 or greater with the state and its municipalities to certify that they hold no discriminatory policies against firearm industry businesses. Contracts that are certified and later discovered to be out of compliance with the law will be subject to cancellation.

Oklahoma is the 11th state to enact FIND Act laws to prevent corporate discrimination. Others include Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Louisiana, Montana, Texas, Utah, West Virginia and Wyoming. Similar legislation, also titled the FIND Act, was introduced in Congress by U.S. Rep. Jack Bergman (R-Mich.) as H.R. 45 and by U.S. Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.) as S. 137.

About NSSF

NSSF is the trade association for the firearm industry. Its mission is to promote, protect and preserve hunting and the shooting sports. Formed in 1961, NSSF has a membership of thousands of manufacturers, distributors, firearms retailers, shooting ranges, sportsmen's organizations and publishers nationwide. For more information, visit nssf.org.

SOURCE NATIONAL SHOOTING SPORTS FOUNDATION
Team from Pembroke Pines Charter High School in Florida proposes smartphone app that uses Artificial Intelligence to aid visually impaired people; wins grants to support STEM programming at school

FARMINGTON, Conn., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Students from Pembroke Pines Charter High School in Pembroke Pines, Florida are the first-ever global winners of the Otis Made to Move Communities student challenge for their idea to develop a smartphone app that uses Artificial Intelligence to aid visually impaired people.

Students from Pembroke Pines Charter High School in Pembroke Pines, Florida are the first-ever global winners of the Otis Made to Move Communities student challenge.

More than 250 students from 28 schools across 16 countries and territories participated in this year's challenge. Students used STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) principles and leadership skills to design concepts that leverage AI to enable more inclusive mobility. Otis (NYSE: OTIS), which hosts the competition and supports it with colleague volunteers, is the world's leading elevator and escalator manufacturing, installation and service company.

"Congratulations to the students from Pembroke Pines High School. Their project showcased the innovative thinking that emerges when STEM skills and AI are applied to solve real-world issues," said Randi Tanguay, Otis Chief Communications Officer and a judge in the global competition. "As 'digital natives' these students are growing up in a world where the internet and technology, including AI, are a part of daily life. We hope this experience inspires them to keep exploring, identifying challenges, and finding opportunities to use technology for the benefit of their communities and society. I am confident these students are our future leaders and innovators."

Over the last several months, students at the participating high schools, with the guidance of Otis volunteer mentors, designed concepts leveraging AI technology to enable more inclusive mobility in their communities, and presented their ideas to Otis judges in each of the company's four regions: Americas, Asia Pacific, China and EMEA (Europe, Middle East & Africa). In previous years Otis selected winners at the regional level only. For the first time this year, the challenge also named a global winner.

The team from Pembroke Pines placed first in Otis' Americas regional challenge, competing against six other teams from across the U.S., Canada and Brazil. Pembroke Pines went on to compete against winning school teams from the three other Otis regions in the final round to determine a global champion.

"It has been inspiring to watch students learn how AI can be applied to make a positive difference in our community and the world," said Pembroke Pines science teacher Darlene Laffler. "Thank you to the students, our staff and the Otis volunteer mentors for making this experiential learning possible."

All schools with participating student teams received grants from Otis to support STEM programming at their schools. As global champions, the students from Pembroke Pines earned their school a total of $35,000 in grants. The three other regional winning teams each received $20,000 for their schools.

About the Made to Move Communities program

Launched in 2020, the Made to Move Communities program engages young minds to explore real-world urbanization challenges and develop innovative solutions with the potential to create more connected communities and improve mobility for all. This initiative brings together students, educators, and Otis colleagues as mentors with the goals of advancing STEM and leadership skills to help build the next generation of talent, ensuring future workforce readiness, and sustaining innovation.

Each year, the program focuses on a different theme that aligns with global priorities, such as sustainability, accessibility or technology. This year's theme challenged students to incorporate AI into their inclusive mobility solution. The program encourages students to think critically and creatively, applying STEM principles to address mobility-related issues. Through workshops, mentorship, and collaboration, participants gain valuable insights and skills that prepare them for future careers while making a positive impact on society. Each participating school receives a grant at the conclusion of the program to support ongoing STEM education in their schools.

To date, the Made to Move Communities program has reached more than 1,000 student participants globally, involved more than 950 Otis volunteer mentors, and delivered nearly 100 grants totalling over $1 million to support ongoing STEM education at participating schools.

To learn more about the Made to Move Communities program, visit www.otis.com/mtmc.

About Otis

Otis gives people freedom to connect and thrive in a taller, faster, smarter world. The global leader in the manufacture, installation and servicing of elevators and escalators, we move 2.4 billion people a day and maintain approximately 2.4 million customer units worldwide  the industry's largest Service portfolio. You'll find us in the world's most iconic structures, as well as residential and commercial buildings, transportation hubs and everywhere people are on the move. Headquartered in Connecticut, USA, Otis is 72,000 people strong, including 44,000 field professionals, all committed to manufacturing, installing and maintaining products to meet the diverse needs of our customers and passengers in more than 200 countries and territories. To learn more, visit www.otis.com and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook @OtisElevatorCo.

Media Contact:

Katy Padgett

+1-860-674-3047

[email protected]

SOURCE Otis Worldwide Corporation
As TikTok Shop Prepares to Launch, Global Agencies Expand Social Commerce Capabilities in Latin America

SANTA MONICA, Calif., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Outlandish, a global leader in live shopping and social commerce, is officially expanding into Brazil through a strategic partnership with MindgruveMacarta , a global performance marketing, retail media, and data-tech company. The collaboration provides brands with a seamless entry into TikTok Shop Brazil, offering end-to-end support as demand for live, shoppable content accelerates across Latin America's largest market.

"Brazil represents a dynamic and rapidly evolving social commerce landscape, and the upcoming launch of TikTok Shop is creating a major opportunity for brands to connect with Brazilian consumers," said William August, Founder and CEO of Outlandish. "Partnering with MindgruveMacarta ensures that we're bringing best-in-class expertise across performance marketing, advanced analytics, and localization to help brands succeed in this exciting new frontier."

With offices in Sao Paulo and Mexico City, MindgruveMacarta brings deep regional experience and an established track record of helping top global brands like 3M, JBL, and Duracell expand in Latin America. Together, Outlandish and MindgruveMacarta will support brands with a full suite of services  including content production, local influencer activations, fulfillment and logistics, compliance, and advertising  all customized for Brazil's fast-moving social commerce space.

"As TikTok Shop prepares to go live in Brazil, brands need a partner who understands the intersection of commerce, culture, and content," said Carlos Corona , Chief Growth Officer at MindgruveMacarta. "We saw that play out firsthand in Mexico, where our collaboration with Outlandish led to the most successful TikTok live shopping event in the country to date. We're bringing that same momentum and proven approach to Brazil."

This partnership builds on Outlandish's broader global expansion and follows the company's successful entry into Mexico earlier this year. Building on this entry into South America, Outlandish's expansion plans also target European and Asian markets later this year.

About Outlandish

Founded in 2018 with support from The Dodo Group, a diversified investment firm led by brothers Michael and Jason Dodo, Outlandish is a global leader in live shopping and social commerce, helping brands, creators, and celebrities connect with audiences through immersive, real-time experiences. With a strong presence on platforms like TikTok and partnerships with leading global brands, Outlandish is shaping the future of retail by integrating digital and traditional shopping in new and exciting ways.

About MindgruveMacarta

MindgruveMacarta is a global performance marketing, retail media and data-tech company created from the merger of Mindgruve, Macarta and Icon Commerce. The agency is comprised of strategists, creatives, media and marketplace experts, data scientists, and engineers driven by one common purpose  accelerate business growth through data-driven marketing, creative, and commerce. With over 300 experts across the globe, MindgruveMacarta's teams provide integrated performance marketing and retail media solutions for global brands.

Media Contact:

Keegan Coleman

[email protected]

714-916-2546

SOURCE Outlandish
Beloved Texas-Based Family-Owned Restaurant Group Prevails at Auction for Iconic Tex-Mex Brand

HOUSTON, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pappas Restaurants is proud to announce it was selected as the prevailing bidder during the auction of On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina. The transaction, which is subject to court approval, is expected to be finalized and close in the coming weeks.

This acquisition will bring together two iconic Texas-based restaurant brands and expand Pappas' presence in the Tex-Mex category by adding a nationally recognized concept that offers bold flavors at an accessible price point. On The Border's value-driven approach complements Pappasito's Cantina, known for its fresh ingredients, sizzling fajitas, hand-shaken margaritas, and high-energy atmosphere. Together, the brands will allow Pappas Restaurants to serve a wider range of guests across more markets.

"We're excited to welcome On The Border to the Pappas family," said Mike Rizzo, CEO of Pappas Restaurants. "On The Border is a brand with deep heritage and loyal guests, and we see tremendous opportunity to invest in its future. Our shared Texas roots and passion for hospitality make this a natural fit."

With decades of experience operating high-performing restaurant brands, Pappas Restaurants will apply its proven operational model and commitment to quality and hospitality to help strengthen and modernize On The Border locations. The guest experience at On the Border will remain rooted in the lively, welcoming environments that both brands are known for.

"On The Border has always stood out for its energy and bold flavorsit's a brand we've known and respected for years," said Chris Pappas, co-owner of Pappas Restaurants. "This gives us the chance to bring our passion for Tex-Mex to more guests, and we're excited to build on what makes both brands special."

Pappas Restaurants will explore ways to enhance On The Border's menu, operations, and guest experience while honoring the brand's history and fan-favorite offerings. The transition will be guided by a commitment to quality, hospitality, and the celebration of Tex-Mex cuisine.

ABOUT PAPPAS RESTAURANTS

Based in Houston, Texas, Pappas Restaurants is a family-owned and operated restaurant group with a portfolio of iconic brands, including Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Pappasito's Cantina, Pappas Bar-B-Q and Pappas Bros. Steakhouse. Known for its attention to detail, high-quality ingredients, and genuine hospitality, Pappas Restaurants has earned a national reputation for excellence in the hospitality industry. For more information, please visit pappas.com.

ABOUT ON THE BORDER

Founded in 1982 in Dallas, Texas, On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina has been serving Border-style Tex-Mex cuisine for over four decades. Known for its mesquite-grilled fajitas, hand-crafted margaritas, and lively dining atmosphere, the brand quickly became a staple in the casual dining scene. At its peak, On The Border operated over 150 locations across the United States and internationally. Today, On the Border operates 60 company-owned restaurants across 18 states and has 20 franchised locations in the U.S. and South Korea.

Media Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE Pappas Restaurants
SINGAPORE, May 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- PEC Ltd ("PEC", SGX: IX2) shareholders have approved a transaction valued at US$160 million for the 100% acquisition by Alliance Energy Services Pte Ltd ("Alliance") through a Scheme of Arrangement at Extraordinary General Meeting in Singapore. Following sanction of the shareholders' meeting by the High Court of Singapore, all PEC shares will be acquired by Alliance and then PEC will be subsequently delisted from the Singapore Stock Exchange. Alliance is a holding company majority owned by Liberty Energy Solutions Ltd ("Liberty Energy") with a minority ownership by PEC's Chair Ms. Edna Ko and CEO Mr. Robert Dompeling.

Liberty Energy provides energy engineering solutions and proprietary products to oil & gas refineries and petrochemical facilities around the world. With operations across the US, Canada, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, India, and the Middle East, Liberty Energy combines advanced R&D capabilities with extensive field experience. The company holds over 200 patents and each year performs more than 200 plant turnarounds for major global clients, including ExxonMobil, Reliance, SPRC, Neste, Chevron, Nayara, Petronas, BP, and Shell. Liberty Energy is the parent of two wholly owned subsidiaries: CR3 Pte Ltd ("CR3"), a Singapore-based leader in energy efficiency, engineering excellence, and sustainable solutions, and ZymeFlow LLC ("ZymeFlow"), a Houston-based leader in environmentally friendly chemical cleaning and decontamination solutions. ShawKwei & Partners ("ShawKwei") is Liberty Energy's controlling shareholder with management owning the other shares. Please visit libertyenergy.group

Founded in 1982 and headquartered in Singapore, PEC is a well-respected provider of maintenance and integrated EPC services for the oil & gas, petrochemical, chemical terminals and pharmaceutical industries. PEC reported revenue of SGD 391 million and net profit of SGD 15 million for the last twelve months ending 31 December 2024, and a robust balance sheet with net cash position of SGD 142 million. Please visit www.peceng.com

"We are excited to welcome PEC into Liberty Energy," said Kyle Shaw, Chair of Liberty Energy and founder and managing partner of ShawKwei. "PEC's strong management team, technical expertise, and reputation for reliability and service excellence align well with our strategy of building a global platform for best-in-class energy solutions."

PEC will continue to operate under the leadership of Chair Edna Ko and CEO Robert Dompeling and work closely with Liberty Energy to provide a greater range of engineering services and products to deliver greater value to a larger group of customers. With more than four decades of operational excellence and strong customer relationships across Asia and the Middle East, PEC enhances Liberty Energy's global platform with CR3 and ZymeFlow, and expands its ability to deliver reliable, end-to-end energy solutions worldwide.

About ShawKwei & Partners:

ShawKwei & Partners is a private equity fund manager investing in industrial and service companies with revenues between US$50-800 million operating across Asia, Europe, and the USA. After investing, ShawKwei & Partners helps improve a business by partnering with management to identify and realize sustainable performance improvements in sales growth, margin expansion, and capital efficiency. Kyle Shaw established ShawKwei & Partners in Hong Kong in 1998 after previously managing Asian private equity funds for the Tudor Investment Group and Security Pacific National Bank. Please visit www.shawkwei.com

About CR3 Pte Ltd:

Founded in 1991 in Singapore, CR3 provides energy engineering solutions across 18 Asian countries, India, and the Middle East from operational bases in Singapore, Thailand, India, Malaysia, and the UAE. CR3 is well known for handling mission-critical reactor catalysts used in refining, chemical, fertilizer, and heavy industrial plants for customers in asset-intensive industries such as energy production, chemical processing, and power generation. CR3 also offers equipment and plant maintenance, pipeline and process services, shutdowns and turnarounds, and engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) solutions. Backed by a loyal workforce, strong customer relationships, and a wide network of technical partners, CR3 has built a reputation for excellence and is well-positioned to support the energy sector's transition to a lower-carbon future. Please visit www.CR3.group

About ZymeFlow LLC:

Headquartered in Houston, Texas, ZymeFlow has over 35 years of experience pioneering innovative chemical decontamination solutions that are more effective, more environmentally friendly, and less wasteful than alternative methods. As an industry leader, ZymeFlow continues to develop proprietary chemistries and application technologies such as ZymeFlow Pro, Rezyd-HP, CatZyme, and ZymeFlow LNG. Its diverse, 100% biodegradable product line helps clients meet sustainability goals, reduce downtime, and lower costs across refining, petrochemical, and LNG facilities onshore and offshore in over 55 countries. Supported by one of the most experienced operations teams in the industry, ZymeFlow's patented, eco-friendly solutions optimize facility performance, reduce carbon footprints, and drive green initiatives. Please visit www.ZymeFlow.com

SOURCE Liberty Energy Solutions Ltd; ShawKwei & Partners
A global survey reveals Europe's growing confidence in the use of data and technology to transform healthcare and surgery.

LEEDS, England, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A global survey from Johnson & Johnson MedTech, a global leader in cardiovascular, orthopaedic, surgery and vision solutions, reveals that Europeans are favorable to sharing their health data in exchange for personalized treatment plans. The study surveyed adults and healthcare professionals (HCPs) across eleven countries, including France, Germany, Italy, and the UK, to assess perceptions of the medical technology industry.

The results indicate that people trust technology for key aspects of their healthcare and believe it will continue to deliver benefits.

Of those Europeans surveyed:

73% support data-sharing for personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual's unique needs  leading ahead of the US general population at 67%.

tailored to each individual's unique needs  leading ahead of the US general population at 67%. 76% would feel excited about the future of healthcare if technology produced data that made medical and surgical training easier.

if technology produced data that made medical and surgical training easier. 65% are excited about the use of AI in healthcare. This excitement is higher among HCPs, with 86% of European HCPs expressing strong support.

"This growing confidence is encouraging for Europe, as it aligns with the ambition to accelerate the digital transformation of healthcare," said Dr. Ivo Broeders*, Consultant Surgeon, Professor of Robotics Twente University and Head of the Meander Centre for Artificial Intelligence. "In my experience, a digital ecosystem enhances the surgical experience for both patients and providers. It can result in personalized surgical plans based on individual patient data, real-time insights, better coordination among surgical teams and improved quality of care."

The survey results further underscore the belief in technology's role in personalized care, with 89% of European HCPs confirming that data and technology will significantly support personalized treatment plans. Additionally, 92% believe technology enhances precision in surgical procedures, and 90% agree that it will improve overall workflow and decision-making within healthcare systems.

Strong support for utilizing technology in training the next generation of HCPs was evident, with 79% of the general public and 87% of HCPs advocating for it. This aligns with recent calls for increased investment in medical training to address Europe's healthcare workforce challenges.

"With our longstanding commitment to support patients and providers across Europe, we champion the transformative potential of data and technology in healthcare," said Dr. Julia Fishman, Head of Digital Solutions EMEA, Johnson & Johnson MedTech. "As patients and healthcare professionals express a clear appetite for data-driven care, we have a collective responsibility  across industry, policymakers and healthcare systems  to unlock the potential of technology safely and meaningfully."

Johnson & Johnson MedTech is actively integrating leading-edge technologies to improve patient outcomes and address key healthcare challenges. These innovations include AI-driven tools that analyze patient data ahead of surgery, advanced cardio mapping systems that provide real-time insights to support clinical decisions, and surgical solutions that personalize solutions like total knee arthroplasty to each patient's individual needs. To fully realize the potential of these technologies at scale, greater connectivity of data across clinical and operational systems will be essential.

Survey Methodology

Morning Consult conducted an online survey on behalf of Johnson & Johnson MedTech between August 8 and September 9, 2024 among 11,412 general population adults and 964 HCPs (including a mix of general surgeons, vision specialists, orthopaedic specialists, and cardiology specialists) in the following countries: Brazil, Chile, Colombia, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, the U.K. and the U.S. Results from the full survey have a margin of error of +/-3% for Gen Pop and between +/-8-10% for HCPs. European data are an aggregate of France, Germany, Italy and the UK.

About Johnson & Johnson

At Johnson & Johnson, we believe health is everything. Our strength in healthcare innovation empowers us to build a world where complex diseases are prevented, treated, and cured, where treatments are smarter and less invasive, and solutions are personal. Through our expertise in Innovative Medicine and MedTech, we are uniquely positioned to innovate across the full spectrum of healthcare solutions today to deliver the breakthroughs of tomorrow, and profoundly impact health for humanity. Learn more about our MedTech sector's global scale and deep expertise in cardiovascular, orthopaedics, surgery and vision solutions at https://thenext.jnjmedtech.com. Follow us at @JNJMedTech and on LinkedIn .

*Dr. Broeders is a paid consultant for Johnson & Johnson MedTech
SEATTLE, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Promethean, a leading global tech company and brand owned by Mynd.ai, Inc. (NYSE American: MYND), has partnered with Google to develop and launch a new Chromebox OPS compute device that pairs effortlessly with Promethean's interactive flat panel displays (IFPDs).

The new Promethean Chromebox OPS turns large interactive touchscreens into ChromeOS devices. The simple plug-in device offers a supported and certified ChromeOS experience without navigating cables or requiring educators to take extra steps when accessing files and content.

Promethean partners with Google on powerful plug-in ChromeOS device

"Installing the new Chromebox OPS is simple because it fits right into an ActivPanel, giving ChromeOS users a more straightforward, intuitive experience," said Lance Solomon, chief product officer at Promethean. "Not only will customers have an upgraded ChromeOS experience, but they can also extend the life of their hardware purchases."

Unlike traditional embedded solutions, users can upgrade or replace the compute device as technology evolves without updating the panel for a highly adaptable investment for any school or district.

IT administrators can install ChromeOS and Promethean ActivSuite apps on the ChromeOS shelf for instant access to Promethean's Explain Everything web-based whiteboard, and Spinner, Timer, Annotate, and Screen Share Receiver. IT manages behind the scenes via Google Admin console and the device provides automatic updates and built-in virus protection.

As part of the ongoing partnership, the ChromeOS Experience Center (CEC) is showcasing the Promethean Chromebox OPS with the ActivPanel 10, Promethean's newest IFPD. The CEC is a hub for tech innovation and customer engagement, highlighting ChromeOS and other related technologies. Established in 2023 in San Jose, CA, the center is a valuable resource for IT staff and school administrators looking to upgrade their edtech.

Educators can also see the Promethean Chromebox OPS and ActivPanel 10 in action in booth number 2206 at ISTELive 25 in San Antonio, TX, June 29-July 2.

"We're excited to have collaborated with Google to create a seamless ChromeOS solution, continuing our journey of developing products that are easy to use and simple to maintain," Solomon said. "We look forward to sharing more and engaging with educators at the ChromeOS Experience Center and ISTELive this year."

With more than 25 years of designing and manufacturing learning and collaboration technologies, Promethean is a proven partner for digital transformation. The Promethean Chromebox OPS helps schools and higher education institutions respond to the top challenges that educators face, ensuring teachers and students can interact with content quickly and easily.

To discover how this unified solution can help your ChromeOS-based school or district increase engagement and collaboration in the classroom, visit PrometheanWorld.com .

About Promethean

Promethean is a learning and collaboration technology company. From our founding in Blackburn, England, more than 25 years ago to our global operations serving 126 countries today, we've continued to explore, innovate, and inspirecreating learning and collaboration tools that are designed for discovery. Our award-winning interactive display, ActivPanel, and software, Promethean ActivSuite, ActivInspire, and Explain Everything, were designed to engage students, connect colleagues, and open opportunities for discovery in everyone. With headquarters in Seattle, Washington, and offices worldwide, Promethean is a subsidiary of Mynd.ai, Inc. (NYSE American: MYND). Visit us at PrometheanWorld.com.

2025 Promethean Limited. All rights reserved. Promethean, the Promethean logo, ActivPanel, ActivInspire, and Promethean ActivSuite are trademarks or registered trademarks of Promethean Limited in the United Kingdom, United States, and other countries around the world. All third-party trademarks (including logos and icons) referenced by Promethean remain the property of their respective owners. Unless specifically identified, the use of third-party trademarks does not indicate any relationship, sponsorship, or endorsement between Promethean and the owners of these trademarks. Applicable Terms and Conditions for warranty and support available at PrometheanWorld.com/Warranty. All weights and dimensions are approximate. Product specifications are subject to change without notice.

SOURCE Promethean Inc
CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Prosperity Brands, the newly formed parent company of BNI, CorporateConnections, and Scion Social, proudly announces the launch of its new website (prosperitybrands.com) and its public debut as a global family of mission-driven brands.

Prosperity Brands is a family of professional service brands that focus on helping purpose-driven business owners around the world to achieve their personal and professional goals. It prioritizes business development, job creation, economic stimulation, personal connectivity and growth opportunities in communities around the world.

"We have a lot to celebrate with the official launch of our Prosperity Brands new digital presence." Post this

The new Prosperity Brands website offers a dynamic introduction to Prosperity Brands' purpose: To support entrepreneurs and business leaders in building thriving businesses, stronger communities, and lasting prosperity. With a fresh design and streamlined navigation, the site highlights Prosperity Brands' mission, vision, and Core Valuescentered around opportunity, connectivity, and long-term global impact.

"We have a lot to celebrate with the official launch of our Prosperity Brands new digital presence," said Mary Kennedy Thompson, CEO of Prosperity Brands. "Our goal is to clearly communicate who we are, what we believe in, and how we empower purpose-driven entrepreneurs to succeedprofessionally and personally."

Prosperity Brands brings together a powerhouse of business growth organizationsBNI, the world's largest and most successful networking organization; CorporateConnections, a global community where leaders connect; and Scion Social, a supportive digital marketing agencyunder one unified mission: To create a world full of lasting prosperity. Franchise opportunities are available at both BNI and CorporateConnections for value-driven, motivated leaders looking for their next opportunity. For more information on the available franchise opportunities, contact [email protected] or [email protected]. To learn more, visit ProsperityBrands.com.

About Prosperity Brands

Prosperity Brands is a family of brands focused on helping business owners around the world to achieve their goals. It prioritizes business development, job creation, economic stimulation, and personal connectivity in communities around the world. Prosperity Brands' mission is to create a world full of lasting prosperity for entrepreneurs and business leaders as well as their families and their communities. Prosperity Brands' vision is A World Full of Opportunity and its Core Values align with those of its largest and best-known brand, BNI. To learn more, please visit www.prosperitybrands.com.

About BNI:

BNI (Business Network International) is the world's largest and most successful business networking organization. Today, BNI has over 335,000+ Member-businesses participating in over 11,200+ BNI Chapters that meet in-person, online, or in a hybrid format each week in 76 countries around the globe. Since inception in 1985, BNI has proudly helped 2.2 million businesses garner over $215 billion USD in revenue1. To learn more about BNI and how you can visit a Chapter, go to www.bni.com. For franchise information, contact the Franchise Development Team at [email protected] or visit www.bnifranchise.com to learn more.

1. The information is based on BNI Member self-reported data as of December 24, 2024, and represents the collective results from BNI Members worldwide since its inception January 8, 1985. Errors in the self-reporting data or in subsequent analysis are possible. Therefore, the information herein should only be viewed as a representative nature.

About CorporateConnections:

CorporateConnections provides global business leaders the ideal setting for generating exceptional and measurable results through executive networking opportunities. Our Members join to connect with leaders around the world and for the opportunity to create meaningful change in their organizations, communities and lives. To learn more, please visit www.corporateconnections.com. For franchise information, email Sri Rathi at [email protected] or visit www.corporateconnections.com/Franchising.

About Scion Social

Scion Social is an award-winning Digital Marketing Agency headquartered in Bangalore, India with a global footprint. They specialize in digital marketing strategy, social media presence, website development and communications. Over the years, Scion has established an international client base of highly reputed brands in more than 15 countries. Scion has a proven track record helping its clients achieve ROI online and enhance their digital presence to drive results and new client acquisition. To learn more, go to www.scion-social.com.

SOURCE Prosperity Brands
Truist Securities Industrials & Services Conference

Bernstein Strategic Decisions Conference

KeyBanc Capital Markets Industrials & Basic Materials Conference

TD Securities U.S. Corporate Access Day

HOUSTON, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Quanta Services, Inc. (NYSE: PWR) announced today that company management will participate in several institutional investor conferences in May and June, as follows:

Truist Securities Industrials & Services Conference

Duke Austin, Chief Executive Officer, Jayshree Desai, Chief Financial Officer, and Kip Rupp, Vice President  Investor Relations, will meet with institutional investors during the conference on May 8, 2025.

Bernstein Strategic Decisions Conference

Duke Austin, Chief Executive Officer, Jayshree Desai, Chief Financial Officer, and Kip Rupp, Vice President  Investor Relations, will meet with institutional investors during the conference on May 28, 2025. Mr. Austin and Ms. Desai will also participate in a fireside chat hosted by Bernstein analyst Chad Dillard on the same day at 8:00 a.m. Eastern time, which will be broadcast live over the Internet. Live webcast links and archived replays of this presentation will be available in the "News & Events" area of the Investor Relations section of Quanta's website (https://investors.quantaservices.com/news-events ) .

KeyBanc Capital Markets Industrials & Basic Materials Conference

Duke Austin, Chief Executive Officer, Jayshree Desai, Chief Financial Officer and Kip Rupp, Vice President  Investor Relations, will meet with institutional investors during the conference on May 29, 2025.

TD Securities U.S. Corporate Access Day

Kip Rupp, Vice President  Investor Relations and Sean Eastman, Director  Investor Relations, will meet with institutional investors during the conference on June 17, 2025.

About Quanta Services

Quanta Services is an industry leader in providing specialized infrastructure solutions to the utility, renewable energy, technology, communications, pipeline, and energy industries. Quanta's comprehensive services include designing, installing, repairing and maintaining energy, technology and communications infrastructure. With operations throughout the United States, Canada, Australia and select other international markets, Quanta has the manpower, resources and expertise to safely complete projects that are local, regional, national or international in scope. For more information, visit www.quantaservices.com.

Kip Rupp, CFA, IRC

Sean Eastman

Quanta Services, Inc.

(713) 341-7260

SOURCE Quanta Services, Inc.
IRVING, Texas, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Reconext, a global leader in repair, refurbishment, recovery, and remarketing solutions for electronic devices, announced today its role in a large-scale data center decommissioning project for a major global technology company. This significant project involved the removal and secure processing of 2,500 AI servers powered by NVIDIA GPUs and over 17,000 loose hard drives across four facilities.

Reconext leveraged it's proprietary technologies, including the certified Rackwipe System for in-rack servers and the Proteus system for loose drives, ensuring rapid, secure, and complete data erasure and asset categorization. Drives that initially failed testing were refurbished and given extended life through Reconext's specialized rework processes.

"This project highlights Reconext's expertise in sustainably managing large-scale technology infrastructure, emphasizing our commitment to secure, responsible second-life asset utilization," said Shahriyar Rahmati, CEO of Reconext. "We are constantly innovating to support our customers' financial and sustainability objectives, contributing significantly to circular economy practices."

Currently, Reconext is qualifying the recovered servers for reuse as complete systems, including potential deployment within liquid immersion cooling environments. The projected benefits from reusing these assets include a 40% reduction in energy consumption, a 60% reduction in physical space requirements, and an estimated 51% savings in capital expenditure compared to purchasing new equipment.

Reconext operates 20 strategically located facilities in 14 countries, supporting many of the world's leading technology companies. This successful decommissioning project underscores Reconext's position as a leader in providing secure and sustainable lifecycle management solutions for critical IT infrastructure, driving the adoption of circular economy principles within the technology sector.

About Reconext:

Reconext, a leading provider of aftermarket lifecycle services for electronics, serves leading manufacturers, operators, retailers, insurers, data centers and large corporations. Markets served include consumer electronics, customer premises equipment, enterprise network & data storage, IoT, mobile and point of sale equipment. Reconext's end-to-end aftermarket lifecycle services include returns management & fulfillment, testing & grading, repair & refurbishment, asset recovery and trade-in & buy-back. For additional information, visit reconext.com.

SOURCE Reconext
Cash subsidy valued at up to 1.22 billion PLN is one of the largest grants ever offered by Poland's Ministry of Economic Development and Technology

WARSAW, Poland, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Ministry of Economic Development and Technology in Poland today offered Ascend Elements up to USD $320 million to support construction of a sustainable precursor cathode active material (pCAM) manufacturing facility in Poland. pCAM is a high-value, precisely engineered material used in the manufacture of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and other advanced industrial applications. The cash subsidy of 1.22 billion Polish Zloty (PLN) is one of the largest grants ever offered by the Republic of Poland. As part of the E.U.'s Temporary Crisis and Transition Framework (TCTF), the grant is designed to support Europe's transition to a net-zero economy.

Linh Austin, President and CEO at Ascend Elements, meets with Michal Jaros, Secretary of State in Polands Ministry of Economic Development and Technology, in Warsaw, Poland.

"This offer of support from the Polish government marks a significant step forward in Ascend Elements' European growth strategy," said Linh Austin, President and CEO at Ascend Elements. "We are committed to building a sustainable battery materials supply chain on both sides of the Atlantic, and we greatly appreciate the Ministry's offer of significant financial support."

Ascend Elements has already identified a location in Poland for the construction of its first advanced battery materials (pCAM) manufacturing facility in Europe. CEO Linh Austin met with Poland's Secretary of State Micha Jaros at the Polish Ministry of Economic Development and Technology in Warsaw on Wednesday to receive the grant offer.

"Battery sector projects are a key part of PAIH's investment portfolio," said Pawel Pudlowski, Ph.D., Vice President of the Management Board at the Polish Investment and Trade Agency (PAIH). "The Ascend Elements project is one of the largest U.S. investments in recent years, strengthening Poland's role in the battery supply chain and supporting regional development, including technology development and cooperation with local educational institutions."

Ascend Elements plans to commercialize its innovative technology for the manufacture of sustainable nickel, manganese, and cobalt (NMC) pCAM made from recycled lithium-ion battery materials at the new facility in Poland.

"We are deeply grateful for the support of the Polish government and thrilled to expand our presence in Europe," said Tomasz Poznar, Ph.D., Senior Vice President of Commercial at Ascend Elements.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2681603/Ascend_Elements___Linh_Austin_and_Michal_Jaros.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1930392/Ascend_Elements_Logo.jpg
An All-American Winery Supporting Local Farmers, Conservative Values, and a Community of Proud Wine Lovers

MONTEREY, Calif., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Republican Red Winery, known for its unapologetically American values and commitment to integrity in every pour, proudly announces a sweeping brand refresh that includes updated branding, a revamped website, and the launch of The Grand Ol' Wine Cluban invitation to drink with purpose and pride.

An All-American Winery Supporting Local Farmers, Conservative Values, and a Community of Proud Wine Lovers Post this The Emerson Collection The '45-47' Collection

100% American-Made Wine, No Compromises

At a time when major wine companies are blending up to 25% foreign wine into wines that are marketed as American made, Republican Red Winery stands apart. Every bottle is crafted right here in the USAfrom grape to glass. While big wine corporations cut corners by importing cheap alternatives, Republican Red sources exclusively from American farmers, supporting the backbone of our nation's agricultural economy. In a market increasingly drawn to domestic goods, the winery proudly embodies what it means to be an All-American brandtransparent, principled, and patriotic.

New Look. Same Backbone.

The updated label designs bring a cleaner, more elevated aesthetic to each bottlewithout compromising the grit, wit, and American spirit that define the brand. The rebrand includes new limited-edition designs for the iconic 4547 Series and the introduction of the Emerson Collection, a premium tier of wines representing loyalty, conviction, and strength. Emerson is more than a mascothe's a reminder to stand tall and never water down your values.

In response to customer demand, Republican Red Winery will be rolling out new label designs throughout the year. "Our customers have asked for the new labels," said Paul Johnson, founder of Republican Red Winery. "These new drops pay tribute to American values, spark authentic conversation, and put politics back where it belongsat the dinner table alongside the wine."

The Grand Ol' Wine Club  A Home for Patriotic Wine Drinkers

Launching in tandem with the rebrand, The Grand Ol' Wine Club invites proud Americans to connect over wine, conversation, and shared values. The membership includes a personal wine concierge, deep discounts, priority access to limited-edition releases, virtual tastings, and invites to an exclusive Wine Weekend in Monterey, California.

To explore the new collections, learn more about our all-American winemaking process, or join The Grand Ol' Wine Club, visit www.RepublicanRed.com .

Media Contact:

Kamela // Media Relations

[email protected]

Republican Red Winery produces freedom in a bottle, founded on the belief that great wine and great values go hand in hand. Founded on California's Central Coast by Paul Johnson, the winery crafts bold, conversation-starting wines for Americans who proudly celebrate tradition, liberty, and the pursuit of the American Dream. From its iconic 4547 Series to its timeless Emerson Collection, Republican Red pairs expert winemaking with a mission to inspire lively and civil political conversation around the dinner table. With a growing national following of 75K+ customers, a vibrant fundraising program for conservative organizations, and its signature Grand Ol' Wine Club, Republican Red is more than a wineryit's a movement. To learn more, visit www.RepublicanRed.com.

SOURCE Republican Red
Enjoy home tours and complimentary lunch at Stonehaven and Arborbrook

LAS VEGAS, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Richmond American Homes of Nevada, Inc., a subsidiary of M.D.C. Holdings, Inc., is pleased to announce an Open House event at Stonehaven and Arborbrook (RichmondAmerican.com/StonehavenArborbrookOpenHouse), a sought-after community in Las Vegas. Prospective homebuyers and area agents are encouraged to stop by on Saturday, May 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for complimentary lunch, model home tours, and an exciting prize giveaway.

More about Stonehaven and Arborbrook (RichmondAmerican.com/StonehavenArborbrook):

The Lynwood is one of eight Richmond American floor plans available at Stonehaven and Arborbrook in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Two-story floor plans from the $500s

3 to 5 bedrooms, approx. 2,110 to 3,270 sq. ft.

Designer-curated fixtures & finishes

Guest suites & main-floor primary suites available

Easy access to Blue Diamond Road

Close proximity to notable schools, shopping, dining & recreation

Quick move-in opportunities

Stonehaven and Arborbrook is located at 9977 W. Meranto Avenue in Las Vegas. For more information, call 725.241.9152 or visit RichmondAmerican.com.

About M.D.C. Holdings, Inc.

M.D.C. Holdings, Inc. was founded in 1972. MDC's homebuilding subsidiaries, which operate under the name Richmond American Homes, have helped more than 250,000 homebuyers achieve the American Dream since 1977. One of the largest homebuilders in the nation, MDC is committed to quality and value that is reflected in each home its subsidiaries build. The Richmond American companies have operations in Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia and Washington. Mortgage lending, insurance and title services are offered by the following MDC subsidiaries, respectively: HomeAmerican Mortgage Corporation, American Home Insurance Agency, Inc. and American Home Title and Escrow Company.

SOURCE M.D.C. Holdings, Inc.
RWE recently commissioned six renewable energy projects totaling 999 MW operating capacity, supporting greater grid reliability and energy security

RWE adds one new wind farm, one repowered wind farm, three new solar projects and one standalone battery energy storage project across four different states, including its first operational project in Arkansas

The six renewable energy projects brought more than 1,400 jobs during construction to local areas and will generate more than $130 million in local tax revenue over their operating lifetimes

AUSTIN, Texas, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- RWE, the third largest renewable energy company in the U.S., has expanded its growing operational asset base by completing six projects in recent months with a combined capacity of 999 megawatts (MW). The projects include one new wind farm, one repowered wind farm, three new solar installations and one standalone battery energy storage system (BESS) across four states. The newly completed projects strengthen U.S. energy infrastructure and independence, and will be capable of producing enough electricity to power the equivalent of more than 177,000 homes and businesses nationwide.

Andrew Flanagan, CEO, RWE Clean Energy: "RWE is meeting growing demand by providing homegrown energy and advancing U.S. energy leadership with six completed clean energy assets. These projects advance domestic energy security nationwide, while stimulating local economic growth and creating energy sector jobs. As we move forward, we'll continue to help meet the rising energy demand across the U.S."

The newly operating assets include an expansion of the Westside Canal Complex, adding a 119 MW (476 MWh) 4-hour battery energy storage project located in Imperial County, California. As the second phase of the Westside Canal Complex, which provided 160 construction jobs, it increases the total capacity to 250 MW (1,000 MWh). This addition strengthens California's energy resilience, supporting reliability and the grid. It will also support local economic growth contributing an estimated $20 million in property tax revenue over the project's 20-year lifetime.

RWE completed three projects in Texas, including a 300 MW solar project in Goliad, Texas called Peregrine Solar. The project team's efficient work enabled the project to safely commission 300 MW in 15 days. This project provided critical economic benefits and local employment of 250 workers during its construction phase. Additionally, RWE's project will provide a community benefit that will generate over $180,000 per year for local jurisdictions throughout the project's lifetime.

Peyton Creek II, a 243 MW wind project in Bay City, Texas, was recently commissioned, bringing the total generating capacity of the Peyton Creek Complex to 394 MW. Peyton Creek II created approximately 250 jobs during construction, with the full Peyton Creek Complex now supporting 20 full-time local jobs in operation and adding approximately $60 million to the local tax revenue in Matagorda County over the project's lifetime.

Also in Texas, RWE has completed commissioning of the repowered Champion Wind project, a 127 MW wind farm in Nolan and Mitchell counties, Texas. Originally commissioned in 2008, RWE extended the project lifetime for an additional 20 years, ensuring continued support for the local community and generating approximately $31 million in tax revenue over the project's lifetime. During construction, the project provided more than 200 local jobs.

Marking RWE's first operational project in Arkansas, Quartz Solar, is a 135 MW solar project in Cross County, bringing new economic opportunities and added workforce in the state during a time of exponential power demand as data centers and manufacturing surge. The project supported 300 jobs at peak construction and will support additional permanent jobs during operation. Notably, Quartz Solar will provide $12.5 million in property tax revenue during its operating lifetime.

In Virginia, RWE's 75 MW Wythe County Solar is now operational and is contributing to the region's power supply. The project employed more than 300 workers during peak construction and sourced locally for services during construction such as water, dumpsters, sanitary services, rental equipment and more. It will also add around $7 million in property tax revenue over the lifetime of the project. This project aligns with Virginia's "all of the above" energy strategy and helps meet growing energy demands.

Generating Impact in the U.S.

The commissioning of nearly 1 gigawatt of clean energy assets is providing American-made energy to the local grid and provides thousands of jobs, many of which are locally sourced. From coast to coast, these projects provide reliable and affordable power capacity.

For more information, visit americas.rwe.com.

For further inquiries:

Patricia Kakridas

Sr. Manager, Media & Public Relations

Corporate Communications

RWE Clean Energy

M + 619-753-5206

E [email protected]

RWE in the US

Through its subsidiary RWE Clean Energy, RWE is the third largest renewable energy company in the United States, with a presence in most U.S. states from coast to coast. RWE's team of about 2,000 employees in the U.S. stands ready to help meet the nation's growing energy needs. With its homegrown and fastest-to-market product, RWE supports the goal of American Energy dominance and independence. To that end, RWE Clean Energy is committed to increasing its already strong asset base of over 10 gigawatts of operating wind, solar and battery projects, focusing on providing high-quality jobs. RWE invests in local and rural communities while strengthening domestic manufacturing supporting the renaissance of American industry. This is complemented by RWE's energy trading business. RWE is also a major offtaker of American liquified natural gas (LNG).

As an energy company with a successful history spanning more than 125 years, RWE has an extensive knowledge of the energy markets and an excellent expertise in all major power generation and storage technologies, from nuclear, coal and gas to hydro, batteries, wind and solar.

SOURCE RWE
Safety Marking expands its footprint across the Northeastern U.S. with the acquisition of Upstate NY-based Straight Line Industries

BRIDGEPORT, Conn., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Safety Marking ("SMC" or "the Company"), a leading provider of pavement marking services and a portfolio company of Highview Capital, LLC ("Highview"), announced the acquisition of Straight Line Industries ("Straight Line"). This acquisition expands Safety Marking's geographic reach into Upstate and Western New York to better serve its customers. Rick Fremont, Straight Line's Founder, will continue to lead Straight Line's day-to-day operations and remain an owner in the combined business.

With over 50 years of industry expertise, Safety Marking is a full service highway and roadway striping provider, with operations across the Northeast. Safety Marking partnered with Highview in August 2023 to accelerate growth organically and through acquisitions.

Located in Cohoes, New York near Albany, Straight Line has been a trusted roadway striping services subcontractor for over 30 years. Straight Line will become an important part of Safety Marking's operations and expand its capabilities across New York state.

"Straight Line is a tremendous company with a stellar reputation and the same commitment to service that defines Safety Marking. The business is a natural geographic fit for SMC and we look forward to partnering with Rick and his team to strengthen our operations across the region," said Mark Kelly, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Safety Marking.

"Rick and Straight Line have built a longstanding track record of delivering exceptional service to the state of New York and we're excited to support their continued growth," said P.J. Gilbert, Managing Director at Highview.

"Joining forces with Safety Marking represents an exciting new chapter for us. SMC shares our core values of high quality work and excellent customer service, and we look forward to expanding our capabilities under our partnership," said Rick Fremont, Founder of Straight Line.

About Safety Marking

Safety Marking was founded in 1973 by Mark Kelly as a full-service highway and roadway marking provider. Today, Safety Marking is an industry leader with expertise across every aspect of pavement marking and is utilizing the latest technology to provide superior service to its customers. For more information, visit www.safetymarking.net.

About Highview Capital, LLC

Highview Capital, LLC is a Southern California-based private equity fund backed by a multibillion dollar family office. The fund employs a flexible mandate and takes a long-term perspective on middle market businesses at an inflection point. Highview takes pride in our ability to partner closely with founders and management teams. For more information, visit www.highviewcapital.com.

SOURCE Highview Capital
MADISON HEIGHTS, Mich., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Sanders, the iconic caramel and chocolate confection company, is marking a major milestoneits 150th anniversaryby unveiling its new White Chocolate Sea Salt Caramel collection, which takes center stage in the celebration. To commemorate this moment, they are throwing an intimate party alongside the Sander's "Family" in their West Village Mansion.

Sanders Logo Sanders 150th Anniversary

For a century-and-a-half, Sanders has perfected the art of caramel-making, using small-batch, slow-kettle cooking to create rich, buttery confections. Made with real cream and butter, every bite delivers layers of flavor without artificial ingredients. The signature blend of buttery caramel, premium chocolate, and a touch of sea salt ensures a perfectly balanced, melt-in-your-mouth experience that honors the brand's legacy of craftsmanship:

White Chocolate Sea Salt Caramels  A luscious combination of small-batch, slow-cooked caramel, draped in premium white chocolate, and finished with a sprinkle of sea salt. (7oz pouch & 18oz tub, available now at select retailers nationwide)





 A luscious combination of small-batch, slow-cooked caramel, draped in premium white chocolate, and finished with a sprinkle of sea salt. (7oz pouch & 18oz tub, available now at select retailers nationwide) Birthday Cake White Chocolate Sea Salt Caramels (Limited Edition)  A festive birthday cake-flavored caramel, wrapped in velvety white chocolate and topped with naturally colored sprinkles. (7oz pouch, Summer 2025)





 A festive birthday cake-flavored caramel, wrapped in velvety white chocolate and topped with naturally colored sprinkles. (7oz pouch, Summer 2025) Holiday Sugar Cookie White Chocolate Sea Salt Caramels (Limited Edition)  Slow-cooked sugar cookie-flavored caramels coated in smooth white chocolate and sprinkled with sugar cookie-flavored flakes. (7oz pouch & 18oz tub, Holiday 2025)

The exclusive invite-only event boasts a guest list of some of the city's most well-known tastemakers of influencers and media. The immersive affair will put guests right in the middle of some family matters as they meet all the recognizable characters cast to portray fun and outrageous versions of the ruling Sanders family. They will get to taste the signature Dark and Milk Chocolate and the new White Chocolate Sea Salt Caramels alongside elevated food pairings. They'll help settle a family feud mingling alongside the matriarch, CEO, nepo princess and more for some fun surprises and family drama!

Simultaneously, Sanders is hitting the streets with a food truck tour across NYC, Cincinnati and Detroit offering free samples of its new Birthday Cake White Chocolate Sea Salt Caramel treats, bringing 150 years of indulgence directly to fans. Keep an eye on Sanders' socials for a sneak peek!

"We wanted to celebrate our 150th anniversary in a way that's as indulgent as our chocolates and as unforgettable as our legacy," said Jennifer Bauer, Chief Marketing Officer of Second Nature Brands. "Between our innovative new white chocolate caramel creations, our immersive event, and the NYC food truck tour, we're inviting fans to experience Sanders' craftsmanship, heritage, and exciting evolution in a truly memorable way."

About Sanders

Established in 1875, Sanders products and chocolate shoppes were woven into the lives of Michigan families and the legendary brand has continued to win over hearts as the leading source of confections on a national and international scale with items like its Milk Chocolate Pecan Clusters and Chocolate Sea Salt Caramels. With its rich heritage and commitment to exceptional quality, Sanders Candy has become a beloved name in the world of caramel and chocolate confections. Using time-honored recipes and the finest ingredients, Sanders' confections are designed to make every occasion special. For more information visit SandersCandy.com and to tantalize your taste buds, follow us on Instagram @sanderscandy and Facebook @sanderscandy.

About Second Nature Brands

Second Nature Brands is the leader in better snacks and treats with a broad portfolio of brands including Kar's Nuts, the #1 branded trail mix snack; Second Nature Snacks, a leader in natural, non-GMO-verified premium snack mixes; Sahale Snacks, the pioneer in super premium glazed nut and fruit mixes; Sanders, the leader in small-batch, kettle-cooked sea salt caramels; Brownie Brittle, a category-defining crispy brownie snack, and; now recently, Voortman, the category-leader in zero sugar and wafer cookies. For more information, please visit SecondNatureBrandsUs.com.

Media Contact:

Rachel Powell

516.314.7730

[email protected]

SOURCE Sanders
A key focus this year is the "silver economy"  spending conducted by senior citizens. Companies are offering special packages that combine healthcare, elderly care, tourism, financial services and other consumer goods.

As Shanghai's GDP per capita continues to rise, the city's consumer spending patterns are shifting, with a larger portion of spending expected to be directed toward services. To meet this demand, Shanghai is expanding its offerings in sectors like telecommunications, the internet, education, culture and healthcare.

This year's shopping festival, running from May 1 to late June, is offering the biggest-ever shopping discounts and is benefitting the greatest number of consumers.

Discounts are available in seven major categories, including home appliances, home decor, furniture and products for older folks.

The local government is also working to establish more tax refund service centers in popular shopping areas, improving services that allow overseas tourists to claim tax refunds at the point of purchase.

Additionally, online payment providers like Alipay and banks acting as tax refund agencies will offer special discounts, coupons and gifts to overseas tourists making purchases in the city.

Various districts in Shanghai have rolled out special incentives for this year's festival.

Jiading district, known for its automobile manufacturing and unmanned vehicles testing, is offering a subsidy of up to 2,000 yuan ($276) to car buyers starting March 21 for a two-month period. This subsidy also applies to used cars.

Several premium international cosmetics brands, such as Sisley, will debut their new spring collections in department stores in Jing'an district, located in the heart of Shanghai.

Pudong New Area will release 50 million yuan in shopping coupons, which customers can use at Pudong-based malls to buy clothing, cosmetics, gold and even jewelry. Consumers can enjoy a 30 percent discount with the coupons. Special promotions for car purchases are also being rolled out in Pudong during the festival.

A 1.5-kilometer special lane connecting a park and two major department stores has been set up in Pudong for the Shanghai International Flower Show, currently on and running to May 11. The lane aims to embellish the total shopping experience by providing a great environment and integrating cultural activities, according to local authorities.

The combination of flowers and shopping is also being featured in Huangpu district in central Shanghai, where the district is hosting the Shanghai International Flower Show for the first time.

Restaurants in Huangpu have introduced limited-edition desserts and beverages for the event, while traditional food brands have launched flower-themed snacks that tourists can take home.

For more information:

https://english.shanghai.gov.cn/en-2025ShanghaiShoppingFestival/index.html

SOURCE english.shanghai.gov.cn

WANT YOUR COMPANY'S NEWS FEATURED ON PRNEWSWIRE.COM? 440k+

Newsrooms &

Influencers 9k+

Digital Media

Outlets 270k+

Journalists

Opted In GET STARTED
The groundbreaking first fully computer-animated feature film returns to the SIGGRAPH stage with a special introduction by Ed Catmull, a 4K screening, and a tribute to the community that helped bring it to life.

VANCOUVER, BC, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SIGGRAPH 2025 will open its conference this August by honoring a film that forever changed the course of animation, technology, and storytelling. Pixar's "Toy Story", the world's first fully computer-animated feature film, will be celebrated in a special 30th anniversary event that captures the spirit of innovation, perseverance, and creativity that defines both the film and the SIGGRAPH community.

Toy Story, Copyright  Disney/Pixar Toy Story, Copyright  Disney/Pixar

Presented by SIGGRAPH's Computer Animation Festival in partnership with ACM SIGGRAPH Pioneers, the tribute will be held on Sunday, 10 August 2025, at the Vancouver Convention Centre. The celebration will begin at 12:30 p.m. PDT with a featured introduction by Ed Catmull, co-founder of Pixar and a pioneering figure in computer graphics. In "Pioneers Featured Speaker: Catmull Story: To SIGGRAPH and Beyond", Catmull will share personal reflections on the breakthroughs, challenges, and triumphs that made "Toy Story" possible.

Following the talk and a live audience Q&A, attendees will enjoy trivia and giveaways before a special 4K screening of "Toy Story", transporting audiences back to where the magic  and CG revolution  began.

SIGGRAPH itself played a vital role in "Toy Story's" journey. Catmull explained that the technical hurdles to make the film were tremendous. Rendering realistic surfaces, modeling characters, and creating lifelike lighting were challenges no one had solved for feature-length storytelling. But SIGGRAPH's annual gathering of researchers and artists helped Pixar find answers. Innovations like new illumination models from Cornell, early ray tracing from the University of North Carolina, stochastic sampling methods developed at Lucasfilm, and advancements that led to the creation of Pixar's "RenderMan" were all born from SIGGRAPH papers and conversations.

"SIGGRAPH wasn't just a conference; it was our lifeline," Catmull emphasized. "We published everything we did because we believed in growing the field together. The breakthroughs shared openly at SIGGRAPH  on lighting, shading, rendering  they became the building blocks that we stitched together to make 'Toy Story'."

Before Woody and Buzz became household names, Pixar presented early test footage at SIGGRAPH, holding its breath before an audience of computer graphics pioneers and artists. "Showing work-in-progress footage at the conference was a milestone moment for us at Pixar," said Bill Reeves, supervising technical director of "Toy Story". "We didn't know how it would be received. Everyone sat in silence as we waited for the footage to finish. When it ended, and the applause exploded in the room, it was a mind-blowing moment for us. We were in shock. We were excited. We knew we were on to something big. The audience at SIGGRAPH that day gave us a much-needed boost of confidence."

Released in 1995, "Toy Story" redefined what was possible in animation and storytelling, creating a new standard for the industry. The film's success showcased not just technical innovation, but the power of blending technology and art to craft compelling stories that would stand the test of time.

"Looking back on making 'Toy Story', I realize now that none of us really knew what we were doing," said Pete Docter, who served as a supervising animator on the film and is now Pixar's chief creative officer. "At the time it didn't feel that way; the young, talented team was brimming with confidence and optimism, too inexperienced to seriously consider that the whole thing might fail. Maybe that was why it worked! What we did understand early on was that the film's success would depend on the strength of its story and characters. Without that, even the world's first fully computer-animated feature would just be a gimmick. Thirty years later, people around the world are still enjoying 'Toy Story' and its sequels, shorts, and theme park attractions  so I guess we got something right!"

The 30th anniversary tribute will not only look back on the film's historic legacy but also spotlight its enduring influence. The modern CG animation pipeline, still rooted in the innovations pioneered for "Toy Story", has since fueled countless advancements in visual storytelling.

"'Toy Story's' place in history is a remarkable milestone for computer graphics," said Dawn Fidrick, SIGGRAPH 2025 Computer Animation Festival Director. "It showed CG wasn't just about producing images  it proved CG images could create the illusion of life, emotion, and storytelling. It paved the way for everything that followed."

Thirty years since the film's release, SIGGRAPH continues to embody the same spirit of innovation and collaboration that nurtured Pixar's earliest ambitions. Today's animators, researchers, and technologists stand on the shoulders of a community that believed creativity and technology could, together, transform what is possible.

SIGGRAPH 2025's tribute to "Toy Story" is more than a celebration of the past. It is a call to the next generation of dreamers and pioneers: to keep pushing, collaborating, and telling stories that change the world.



To learn more about the production and animation content featured at SIGGRAPH 2025, check out the Computer Animation Festival and Production Sessions programs. More information about SIGGRAPH 2025, including registration options, is available at s2025.siggraph.org.

About ACM, ACM SIGGRAPH, and SIGGRAPH 2025

The Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), is the world's largest educational and scientific computing society, uniting educators, researchers, and professionals to inspire dialogue, share resources, and address the field's challenges. SIGGRAPH is a special interest group within ACM that serves as an interdisciplinary community for members in research, technology, and applications in computer graphics and interactive techniques. The SIGGRAPH conference is the world's leading annual interdisciplinary educational experience showcasing the latest in computer graphics and interactive techniques. SIGGRAPH 2025, the 52nd annual conference hosted by ACM SIGGRAPH, will take place live 1014 August at the Vancouver Convention Centre, along with a Virtual Access option.

About ACM SIGGRAPH Pioneers

The SIGGRAPH Pioneers is a distinguished network of researchers, developers, artists, and educators who have contributed to the fields of computer graphics and interactive techniques for more than 20 years, some for nearly six decades. For years, the SIGGRAPH Pioneers have hosted an annual private reception featuring a speaker whose career profoundly shaped the field, but in a significant shift beginning this year, and continuing forward, the Pioneers Featured Speaker will be part of the official conference schedule, open to all SIGGRAPH attendees. Ed Catmull joins a prestigious roster of Pioneers Featured Speakers that includes industry legends such as Alvy Ray Smith, Douglas Trumbull, Donna Cox, Ken Perlin, James D. Foley, and Andries van Dam - visionaries whose groundbreaking work has shaped the field of computer graphics.

About Computer Animation Festival

SIGGRAPH's Computer Animation Festival is an Academy Award Qualifying Festival, awarded to the "Best in Show" short film. Its screening of the Electronic Theater and Animation Theater are widely recognized as celebrating storytelling in computer animation, VFX, advertising, cinematics, real-time graphics, simulation and scientific visualization.

PRESS ROOM:

s2025.siggraph.org/for-the-press

SOURCE SIGGRAPH 2025
Membership Positions Company as a Key Contributor in Advancing the Future of Satellite Connectivity Through Open Standards

KISTA, Sweden, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Sivers Semiconductors AB (STO: SIVE), a global leader in photonics and wireless technologies, today announced that it has joined the Digital Intermediate Frequency (IF) Interoperability (DIFI) Consortium, an independent space industry group formed to advance interoperability in satellite and ground system networks.

The DIFI Consortium is a global collective of industry leaders collaborating to develop and promote open, standards-based interoperability for digital IF/RF systems. Sivers joins a growing roster of leading organizations and innovative companies contributing to the digital transformation of space, satellite and related technologies for the advancement of the industry. Recently, the company announced an agreement to support the development of high-performance, low-cost digitizers based on the NXP Layerscape platform, for SATCOM by Intelsat, operator of one of the world's largest integrated satellite and terrestrial networks.

"We are proud to become a member of the DIFI Consortium and contribute to shaping the future of satellite communications," said Vickram Vathulya, CEO of Sivers Semiconductors. "Our advanced RF and optical technologies are at the core of next-generation connectivity and through DIFI, we aim to accelerate innovation and standardization across the satellite and space ecosystem."

With more than two decades years of expertise in developing mmWave solutions for satellite communications and advanced 5G systems, Sivers Semiconductors' participation in DIFI underscores its commitment to industry collaboration and leadership. The company brings a wealth of experience in mmWave, optical solutions and integrated circuits for aerospace, defense and satellite markets, positioning the company as a valuable contributor to the Consortium's technical initiatives.

"We welcome Sivers Semiconductors to our growing list of members worldwide," said DIFI Chairman Stuart Daughtridge. "We are pleased they have joined us as we continue to evolve the standard to effectively handle more use cases and roll out our Certification Program."

"Joining DIFI is a strategic step for us as we continue to expand our footprint in the satellite and space communications market," said Harish Krishnaswamy, Managing Director, Wireless Division at Sivers Semiconductors. "Open standards are key to unlocking scalable and interoperable solutions and we are excited to collaborate with other industry leaders to shape the next generation of space-based connectivity."

Sivers Semiconductors delivers cutting-edge millimeter-wave (mmWave) and RF solutions tailored for SATCOM, defense, telecommunications, and 5G infrastructure. Designed for superior reliability, performance, and energy efficiency, Sivers products empower customers to accelerate development, streamline deployment and stay ahead in competitive markets.

For more information, please visit https://www.sivers-semiconductors.com/.

Media Contact

Tyler Weiland

Shelton Group

+1-972-571-7834

[email protected]

Company Contact

Vickram Vathulya

CEO

[email protected]

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com.

https://news.cision.com/sivers-semiconductors/r/sivers-semiconductors-joins-the-difi-consortium-to-advance-satellite-network-interoperability,c4146219

SOURCE Sivers Semiconductors
Skechers Named Official Footwear Partner of Bay to Breakers Powered by Windsurf., San Francisco's Iconic Footrace Post this

Known as the Comfort Technology Company, Skechers will bring their dynamic energy, signature Comfort that Performs, and innovation to this year's event by introducing the new Skechers AERO series of technical running shoes to race attendees and participants. Representing the latest evolution of technical running shoes from the brand, Skechers AERO is engineered to deliver an exhilarating blend of speed, style, and comfort to help runners push beyond their personal beststhe Bay to Breakers Powered by Windsurf race will be the first event where Skechers activates to showcase Skechers AERO, which launched on May 1.

Race participants and spectators can also look forward to Skechers branded on-course activations and memorable moments at the Finish Line Festival designed to celebrate runners and further enhance the bold and inclusive energy that has defined the iconic race since 1912. Skechers will also award the top three finishers in each category of the Hayes Hill Challenge with a new pair of Skechers AERO running shoes.

"Skechers' involvement adds a whole new dimension to this year's Bay to Breakers," said Phyllis Blanchard of Motiv Sports/Bay to Breakers Powered by Windsurf. "We're excited about the energy they'll bring, and the opportunity to showcase footwear that keeps pace with the most delightfully unpredictable race in America."

Bay to Breakers is a San Francisco original, known for its spirited race that has been a staple of the city since 1912. It brings together athletes, families, community members, and costume-clad participants for a 12K race from the San Francisco Bay to the breakers on the Pacific Coast. Bay to Breakers is a celebration of life, laughter, and the personality of San Francisco, embodying the city's inclusive spirit and community engagement. During the annual Bay to Breakers Race, participants of all ages and abilities, and oftentimes in costume, line up on Howard Street a few blocks from The Embarcadero on the third Sunday in May  in 2025, May 18. The course travels west through the City and finishes at the Great Highway, where the breakers crash into Ocean Beach. It truly is a time-honored tradition and the quintessential San Francisco experience.

To learn more about Bay to Breakers or sign up for the fun, visit www.baytobreakers.com. For sponsorship or Corporate Teams information, email Alex Jee at [email protected].

About SKECHERS U.S.A., Inc.

Skechers (NYSE:SKX), The Comfort Technology Company based in Southern California, designs, develops and markets a diverse range of lifestyle and performance footwear, apparel and accessories for men, women and children. The Company's collections are available in 180 countries and territories through department and specialty stores, and direct to consumers through skechers.com and more than 5,300 Skechers retail stores. A Fortune 500 company, Skechers manages its international business through a network of wholly-owned subsidiaries, joint venture partners, and distributors. For more information, please visit about.skechers.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Media contact:

David Perry / (415) 676-7007 / [email protected]

SOURCE Bay to Breakers; Skechers
Ross Roark joins from Rollon, further strengthening Sliding Systems continued US expansion and the successful growth of the leading Sliding Systems Group. Ross is a respected sales engineer within the US automation and machine building industries.

DETROIT, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Ross joins with many years of mechanical, industrial fabrication and automation experience, most recently working at Rollon.

Ross will be strengthening Sliding Systems' US sales team, providing customer design engineers with the technical support in selecting the right solution from their expansive range of precision products and systems.

With the Sliding Systems world class product range, accessible pricing and fast lead times, Ross will now be able to support many more OEM and end-users in efficiently specifying and integrating telescopic drawer runner, linear motion systems and actuators into their product designs and fabrications.

Ross's appointment continues the Sliding Systems approach of providing customers with the time, technical and cost benefits of dealing directly. Their team of front line technical sales experts are experienced, trained and skilled, liaising directly with production, rather than through layers of dealers or departments. This gives the customers the right solution, in the shortest time and at the lowest cost.

Eduard Sparkes, CEO of Sliding Systems Group said:

"I'm pleased to announce the exciting addition to our global Sliding Systems team of experts, with Ross Roark joining us to further develop our growing sales and local presence in the USA, as part of our plan to become a fully integrated US manufacturer across many of our key product groups."

About Sliding Systems

Sliding Systems is a global manufacturer and distributor of industrial telescopic slide and linear motion systems. With industry leading manufacturing and sales offices all around the world, its technical sales engineers are recognised as experts in telescopic slide, linear motion systems and compact actuators. Sliding Systems supplies into many application sectors including Aerospace, Architectural, Automation, Bioscience, Firetruck, Industrial manufacturing, Machine building, Marine, Medical, Military & Defence (air, sea & land), Robotics, Special vehicles, Storage and Train building.

www.slidingsystems.us

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2681015/Sliding_Systems_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Sliding Systems
JOLIET, Ill., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As lawns across Illinois and Northwest Indiana recover from winter and brace for a soggy spring, Dr. Green Services is stepping in with a cleaner, more effective solution to one of the region's toughest turf challenges: soil compaction. The company's new liquid aeration service is now available in key markets, helping homeowners prepare their lawns for a healthier, greener summer.

Dr. Green Services Spring Turf Trouble? Dr. Green Services Launches Liquid Aeration to Revive Lawns Across Illinois and Northwest Indiana

Now serving areas including Chicago, Naperville, Joliet, Merrillville, Valparaiso, and surrounding communities, Dr. Green's launch comes at the ideal timespring is peak aeration season, and homeowners are increasingly looking for hassle-free, science-backed ways to boost lawn health.

"Lawns in this region take a beating year-round," said James Tatum, Operations Manager and certified technician at Dr. Green Services. "Between heavy foot traffic, freeze-thaw cycles, and saturated spring soil, compaction is a major issue. Liquid aeration solves thatwithout the mess or machinery."

Why Midwest Lawns Struggle with Compaction

Lawns in Illinois and Northwest Indiana often sit on dense clay soil, which holds water but limits airflow. After winter, this soil becomes waterlogged. Come summer, it dries out and hardensmaking it hard for roots to access oxygen and nutrients.

This cycle weakens grass, causes bare patches, and creates conditions for disease. According to the University of Illinois Extension, soil compaction is one of the leading causes of turf decline in the state.

Dr. Green Services breaks that cycle with liquid aerationa treatment that uses a custom blend of humic acids and organic surfactants to loosen soil beneath the surface. It creates pathways for air, water, and nutrients to reach the root zone, improving both short- and long-term lawn health.

Why Choose Liquid Over Core Aeration?

Liquid aeration offers key advantages over traditional core aeration:

Full-lawn coverage (not just plugs)

No machinery or lawn damage

Safe for pets and children after drying

Same-day lawn access

Boosts microbial activity in the soil

Can be applied across more of the growing season

"We've had homeowners say their lawn looked greener within days," Tatum said. "It's not just a seasonal fixit's a long-term investment in soil health."

Service Areas

Liquid aeration is now available in:

Illinois

Chicago, Naperville, Aurora, Elgin, Joliet, Orland Park, Oak Lawn, and surrounding suburbs

Northwest Indiana

Hammond, Merrillville, Valparaiso, Crown Point, Highland, and nearby communities

Perfect Timing for Healthier Lawns

Spring and early summer are ideal for aeration in the Midwestespecially before the intense summer heat arrives. With rainfall already saturating local soils, now is the time to open up the root zone without tearing up your turf.

Learn More or Schedule a Service

Visit: www.drgreenservices.com

Explore the Aeration Guide: "Do I Need Lawn Aeration?"

References:

University of Illinois Extension  "Lawn Aeration: Why, When, and How" (2023)

Extension  "Lawn Aeration: Why, When, and How" (2023) University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture  "Soil Compaction and Liquid Aeration" (2022)

Division of Agriculture  "Soil Compaction and Liquid Aeration" (2022) Dr. Green Lawn Blog  "Lawn Aeration Services" (2024)

Contact:

Ryan Van Haastrecht

[email protected]

800-465-2934

SOURCE Dr. Green Services
NEW YORK, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ --

Why: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, continues to investigate potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of Teleflex Incorporated (NYSE: TFX) resulting from allegations that Teleflex may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public.

So What: If you purchased Teleflex securities you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. The Rosen Law Firm is preparing a class action seeking recovery of investor losses.

What to do next: To join the prospective class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=38855 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action.

What is this about: On February 27, 2025, during market hours, Fierce Biotech published an article entitled "Teleflex plays musical chairs, plans company split amid 760M Biotronik cardiovascular deal." The article stated that "Teleflex has announced a plan to split its business into two separate independent companiesand it's setting up one of its future scions with a new portfolio of cardiovascular device assets, set to be acquired from Biotronik."

On this news, Teleflex's stock fell 21.6% on February 27, 2025.

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. 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.

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/.

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.
This May, the Taste the Difference campaign will take part in USA Trade Tasting in Chicago, present a Grand Tasting in New York City, and host exclusive trade dinners in both citiesled by top sommeliers and featuring some of the finest European wines from Italy and Spain.

NEW YORK, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The European Union's Taste the Difference campaignled by its beneficiaries, Unione Italiana Vini (UIV) and PRODECA, Promotora dels Aliments Catalans is set to launch a dynamic series of events in both Chicago and New York City from May 19 to 22. Aimed at increasing the competitiveness of high-quality European wines from Italy and Spain (PDO and PGI), the campaign seeks to raise awareness and enhance perceived quality among trade and media professionals. The program will feature immersive tastings, expert-led masterclasses, and exclusive trade experiences that highlight the diversity and excellence of European wines.

"Taste the Difference: Quality Wines from the Heart of Europe"

The U.S. tour kicks off in Chicago on May 19 with an intimate five-course trade dinner at Alla Vitaa celebrated Italian restaurant known for its modern take on traditional cuisine. Italian producers will join the evening to share the stories behind their wines and engage directly with guests.

On May 20, the campaign will have a strong presence at the USA Trade Tasting , one of the country's premier industry events. The day's highlights include:

Masterclass: "European Character  A Journey through the Italian wine regions"

12:00 PM  1:00 PM

Led by Master Sommelier Mark Guillaudeu , this tasting explores how Italy's diverse geographyaltitude, soil, and climateshapes its wines. Each selection reveals a distinct terroir, from alpine slopes to coastal vineyards.

Led by , this tasting explores how diverse geographyaltitude, soil, and climateshapes its wines. Each selection reveals a distinct terroir, from alpine slopes to coastal vineyards. Taste the Difference Press Conference

2:30 PM  3:30 PM

Presented by representatives from UIV and PRODECA , this session invites media professionals to learn more about the campaign's mission, impact, and visionaccompanied by light bites.

Presented by , this session invites media professionals to learn more about the campaign's mission, impact, and visionaccompanied by light bites. Masterclass: " Spain , Catalonia  A Journey Through 12 PDO Wine Regions"

3:45 PM  4:30 PM

Lucas Paya , Global Brand Educator for House of Lustau, leads a tasting featuring seven wines that showcase the richness and diversity of Catalonia's 12 PDO regions.

, Global Brand Educator for House of Lustau, leads a tasting featuring seven wines that showcase the richness and diversity of Catalonia's 12 PDO regions. Masterclass: "From the Mountains to the Coast  Italy's Winescapes"

5:00 PM  6:00 PM

Mark Guillaudeu , MS, returns to guide guests through a tasting that explores how Italy's varied landscapesfrom mountain vineyards to coastal plainsshape its wines.

The campaign continues in New York City on May 21 with an exclusive trade-only cocktail event at Manhatta. This elegant evening offers industry professionals the opportunity to taste and explore the heritage of Italian and Spanish wines while enjoying breathtaking views of New York City from Manhatta's rooftop. Attendees will also have the chance to connect directly with producers, who will be on hand to share the stories and insights behind their wines.

The campaign reaches its grand finale on May 22 with the highly anticipated Taste the Difference Grand Tasting, taking place at Manhatta in New York City. This exclusive event will gather wine professionals for an immersive tasting experience, showcasing a diverse range of high-quality European wines.

Press Conference

10:30 AM  11:00 AM

Led by representatives from UIV and PRODECA, this session provides updates on the campaign's goals, outcomes, and future direction.

Led by representatives from UIV and PRODECA, this session provides updates on the campaign's goals, outcomes, and future direction. Masterclass: "Italian Character  A Regional Journey"

11:00 AM  12:00 PM

Hosted by Mark Guillaudeu , MS , this session continues the exploration of Italy's wine regions, with a focus on how regional differences in climate, soil, and elevation shape the character and style of Italian wines.

Hosted by , this session continues the exploration of wine regions, with a focus on how regional differences in climate, soil, and elevation shape the character and style of Italian wines. Masterclass: "Discover the Rich Heritage, Bold Flavors, and Hidden Gems of Catalonia in Spain "

2:00 PM  3:00 PM

Led by Master Sommelier Jonathan Eichholz, this tasting highlights the dynamic range and character of Catalan wines, celebrated for their bold interpretation of Spanish terroir.

Join us in celebrating the richness of European winemaking. Discover full event details and register here: Taste the Difference Grand Tasting . For questions or additional information, please contact Gemma Bosch at [email protected].

About Taste the Difference

The program: "European Quality Wines: Taste the Difference", co-funded by the European Union and managed by Unione Italiana Vini (UIV) and PRODECA, Promotora dels Aliments Catalans, is dedicated to promoting European PDO and PGI wines in China and the U.S. This initiative includes diverse activities such as walk-around tastings, wine seminars, workshops, and B2B meetings conducted in target markets. It also invites wine professionals to embark on study trips to Europe, in Italy and Spain, offering an immersive experience of European quality wines. The program aims to showcase the rich heritage and superior quality of European wines.

The beneficiaries:

Unione Italiana Vini (UIV) is the oldest and most trusted organization in Italy's wine industry. The association includes members such as cooperatives, private wineries, agricultural organizations, bottlers, consortia, brewing equipment manufacturers, and laboratories.

PRODECA, Promotora dels Aliments Catalans, is a public company established in 1986 that operates under the Regional Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Food of the Government of Catalonia. It supports the agri-food sector and its companies with the knowledge, tools, and experience to increase the reach of Catalan products both domestically and internationally.

Media Contact:

Gemma Bosch

Colangelo & Partners

[email protected]

+1 917 365 4962

SOURCE Taste the Difference
HUNTINGTON, W.Va., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Joseph Thomas Holley is acknowledged as a 2025 Life Achiever for his contributions in the Industrial Piping Supply Industry.

Joseph Thomas Holley

Mr. Holley, a distinguished figure in the industrial piping supply sector, continues to demonstrate unparalleled expertise and dedication in business management and public accounting. With over five decades of experience, Mr. Holley's leadership has been instrumental in driving growth and success for Jabo Supply Corporation.



As the steward of Jabo Supply Corporation, Mr. Holley oversees critical aspects of the business, including financial statement preparation, tax management, and fraud examination. His astute management and strategic acumen have positioned the company as a trusted provider in the regional industrial piping supply market.



Mr. Holley's academic background is a testament to his commitment to excellence. He earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from Marshall University in 1968 and pursued law studies at West Virginia University. Furthermore, Mr. Holley holds several prestigious certifications, including chartered global management accountant, certified public accountant, certified information technology professional, and certification in financial forensics.



Throughout his illustrious career, Mr. Holley has been recognized for his outstanding public service and professional achievements. He received the Medal of Exceptional Public Service from the Secretary of Defense and was honored as Ombudsman of the Year by the United States Department of Defense. In 2008, he was inducted into the Marshall Lewis College of Business Hall of Fame, a testament to his enduring legacy in the industry.



Mr. Holley's unwavering commitment to excellence extends beyond his professional endeavors. He has dedicated himself to various volunteer roles, including serving on the IRS Taxpayer Advocacy Panel and as a member of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve committee.



Looking ahead, Mr. Holley is poised to achieve remarkable milestones for Jabo Supply Corporation. With current revenue standing at $48 million, he is confident in reaching the company's sales target of $50 million. His philosophy of persistent efforts and determination underscores his vision for continued growth and success in the industrial piping supply industry.

Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, [email protected]

SOURCE The Inner Circle
FARGO, N.D., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Kenneth A. Roseth, MBA, is acknowledged as a 2025 Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of strategic consulting in construction, facilities, technology, and business operations.

As a seasoned professional, Roseth leverages his vast and varied experiences to provide substantial benefit to his employers.

Kenneth Roseth

Roseth prepared for his career at North Dakota University (NDSU) where he earned a degree in Construction Management (CM). He later received a Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Mary, Bismarck, ND in 2002. In 2012, he furthered his scholarship with a Master's Certificate (MSA) in Government Contracting from George Washington University in Arlington, VA.

Touting over 40 years in the industry, Roseth has received numerous achievements including Eagle Scout from Boy Scouts of America (BSA) in 1972, which he asserts was a guiding force throughout his career. Other career achievements include American Institute of Constructors (AIC) industry award in the 1993: Dale Carnegie graduated in 1997, with a focus on communication and leadership; NDSU Advisory Committee currently, and was past president from 1999-2010; Board member for Lake Agassiz, Habitat for Humanity currently and past Treasurer of the Rose Creek Homeowners Association. He began his career in the late 1970's as a carpenter and in 1981, after college graduation, joined McCarthy Building Companies, Inc., where he held progressively responsible leadership roles over 12 years, including project engineer, superintendent, project manager, senior project manager, and assistant director. His construction projects included a wide range of complex buildings, parking structures, hotels, condominiums and civil structures across the United States.

Roseth later joined the Cleveland Clinic Foundation as an Owner's Representative, managing multiple projects and providing leadership in planning, design, budgeting, and construction oversight. In the late 1990s, he led the Innovis Health hospital project in Fargo, ND as Owners Representative, leading a team of contractors, board members, consultants and professionals and completed the project ahead of schedule and under budget. He continued to advance as Vice President for Innovis Health and subsequently as Vice President of Corporate Services at Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND), managing various departments and company initiatives, significantly contributing to the organization's success. In 2018, Roseth joined WPS as Vice President of Enterprise Corporate Services, where he played a crucial role in managing budgets, operations, commercial leasing, and real estate sales.

Roseth, semi-retired in 2023 and now provides strategic consulting services to corporations and nonprofits, including global operations leadership for Salto NA (North America), (an access control company, specializing in digital ID and electronic hardware) based in Spain.

Reflecting on his career, Roseth attributes much of his success to his wife Kathi and mentors; Dan Petry & Tim McCarthy, McCarthy; Brian Smith, Cleveland Clinic; Bruce Frederick, Innovis Health; Mike Hamerlik, Noridian/BCBSND/WPS; Dan Schwandt, BCBSND/WPS and his father Don Roseth. His strong work ethic and midwestern values have helped him throughout his career.

Looking to the future, he continues to provide strategic consulting services, focusing on construction and business operations for various organizations. He is also very active in supporting and providing leadership in businesses that his 3 children own and manage.

Aside from his professional pursuits, Roseth and his wife, Kathi, reside in North Dakota, spending winters in Phoenix, AZ, and summers near Detroit Lakes, MN, and time with their children and grandchildren.

Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, [email protected]

SOURCE The Inner Circle
BEIJING, May 6 (Xinhua) -- During the five-day May Day holiday, museums across China recorded more than 60.49 million visits, setting a new record and marking a 17 percent increase year on year. For many travelers, cultural sites have become must-see destinations during holiday. At the Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum in Xi'an, the capital of northwest China's Shaanxi Province and a famed ancient Chinese capital, a tourist surnamed Zhou and her family from central China's Henan Province were already in line for entry at 4 a.m. one morning of the holiday. "It took us three days of attempts on our phones just to get tickets," she said. "No matter how crowded it is, we had to come and see the treasures of our ancestors." To accommodate the surge in visitors, the museum increased its daily ticket supply by 15,000, bringing its total holiday capacity to 80,000, and it extended its opening hours into the evening. Throngs of culture and history enthusiasts like Zhou and her family flocked to heritage-rich provinces such as Shaanxi, Jiangsu and Zhejiang, each of which drew over 4.5 million visitors during the holiday from May 1 to 5, according to the National Cultural Heritage Administration (NCHA). The NCHA said that over the past decade, the number of museums in China has continued to grow, rising at an average of more than 200 per year. Luo Wenli, deputy head of the NCHA, in April said that China had a total of 6,833 museums by the end of 2023, and information on 108 million state-owned movable cultural relics had been digitized with the development of smart museums and cultural relics databases. Increasing numbers of Chinese museums have been attracting visitors with their digitization of cultural relics and application of new technologies. In Wuhan, the capital of central China's Hubei Province, the Hubei Provincial Museum launched a special VR show ahead of the May Day holiday, enabling visitors to interact closely with the Bianzhong -- meaning "bells" -- of Marquis Yi of Zeng, which are known as the world's first "sound-producing music textbook." The VR show, "Journey Through the Bronze Age," uses original sound samples from the Bianzhong of Marquis Yi of Zeng. With VR headsets, visitors can reach out to strike both the centers and sides of the bells to hear sounds that echo over 2,000 years of Chinese history. According to Wang Shiyong, chief director of the show, the project includes more than 30,000 digital assets, with dozens of cultural relics from the museum virtually reconstructed with near-reality precision. In addition to museums, national archaeological parks have also emerged as a major attraction during the past May Day holiday, registering over 3.31 million visits across 55 parks in the five days, data from the NCHA showed. Visits to these parks rose 2.3 percent compared with the same period last year, with 11 parks each receiving more than 100,000 visits, the administration said. During the May Day holiday, the Taosi National Archaeological Site Park in north China's Shanxi Province officially opened to the public. The park features several exhibition areas -- including a site museum that opened in November last year, a palace complex, an observation platform and an astronomy pavilion -- and aims to reproduce the Taosi relics site, which is the site of a Neolithic settlement in the Yellow River basin dating back about 4,500 to 3,900 years. Wandering through the park, visitors can imagine the lives of their ancestors as they pass by the remains of a storage room, kitchen and icehouse, experience the ancient method of observing the sun from the observation platform, and touch digital devices in the astronomy pavilion to take a virtual journey through the vast cosmos. "What impressed me most was the observation platform, which vividly illustrated the origins of the 24 solar terms," said Zhang Shiyue, referring to a time knowledge system developed by Chinese people through the observation of the sun's periodic movements. Zhang had traveled thousands of kilometers from China's southwestern Yunnan Province to visit Taosi. "This trip has deepened my respect and love for the Chinese civilization," Zhang said.
The merger of food and fashion results in White Castle-branded shoes on wheels

COLUMBUS, Ohio, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Move over fries and cheese sticks. White Castle has a new sidekick, and this one has wheels.

The family-owned business, founder of The Original Slider, is partnering with Heelys, the company behind the original wheeled shoe, to introduce a limited-edition collection of White Castle branded Heelys shoes. The shoes will be available exclusively on Heelys website beginning May 15, also known as National Slider Day in recognition of the burger that turned White Castle into a household name.

The shoes blend menu-inspired visuals and White Castle's recognizable color palette with Heelys signature style. Post this The merger of food and fashion results in White Castle-branded Heelys shoes on wheels.

"Just like our Sliders, these shoes are one-of-a-kind, craveable and made for memorable moments," said Jamie Richardson, vice president at White Castle. "We're always seeking fresh and fun ways to satisfy cravings beyond the menu. Partnering with Heelys to design these exclusive shoes does just that."

The shoes, available in two colors, blend menu-inspired visuals and White Castle's recognizable color palette with Heelys signature style. The first version is white with royal blue trim and laces and splashes of orange, while the second version is Night Castle inspired black with orange trim, white laces and splashes of royal blue. Both versions feature the White Castle logo on two sides, a tongue that looks like a Cheese Slider, and small illustrations of Sliders, fries and soft drinks.

This is a limited-edition drop, so fans are encouraged to get these shoes before they're gone. Both the lighter white version and the darker black version are available in sizes youth 13 to mens 13 and cost $75 plus tax and applicable shipping fees.

"White Castle is a fun and authentic brand, so it's been really exciting to work with them on this collaboration," said Sara Arbelaez, social media and partnerships strategist at Heelys. "The design turned out so well. We know White Castle Cravers are going to enjoy flaunting their love for Sliders wearing this unique and playful version of Heelys."

Heelys are shoes with removable wheels located in the heel. The wheels transform the shoes into stealth skates, giving users the freedom to seamlessly transition from walking or running to skating by shifting their weight to the heel. When the wheels are removed, the shoe performs just like any other footwear.

About Heelys

Heelys encourages kids and people of all ages to explore their world and lead active and healthy lifestyles through movement, whether it's walking, running or skating. With Heelys, it's your choice. Heelys dares its wearers to be themselves and encourages them to make their own place in the world!

About White Castle

White Castle, America's first fast-food hamburger chain, has been making hot and tasty Sliders since 1921. Based in Columbus, Ohio, the family-owned business owns and operates about 340 restaurants as well as a retail division providing its famous fare in freezer aisles of retail stores nationwide. As part of its commitment to offering the highest quality products, White Castle owns and operates its own Slider Provider meat plants, bakeries and frozen-Slider retail plants. White Castle has earned numerous accolades over the years including Time magazine's "Most Influential Burger of All Time" (2014, The Original Slider) and Thrillist's "Best Plant-Based Fast-Food Burger" (2019, Impossible Slider). In 2021, Fast Company named the fast-food pioneer one of the "10 Most Innovative Dining Companies." White Castle is known for the legendary engagement of its team members and has received the Great Place to Work Certification for an extraordinary four consecutive years spanning 20212024. White Castle is beloved by its passionate fans (Cravers), many of whom compete each year for entry into the Cravers Hall of Fame. The official White Castle app makes it easy for Cravers to sign up for the CRAVER NATION REWARDS loyalty program, access sweet deals and place pickup orders at any time. For more information on White Castle and how to Follow Your Crave, visit whitecastle.com.

SOURCE White Castle
SAN FRANCISCO, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- TomoCredit, an innovative AI fintech startup founded by immigrants to enhance credit accessibility for millions of Americans lacking credit history, announced today that Steve Smith has been appointed as a board member.

Smith brings decades of leadership in financial technology and open banking. As CEO of Finicity, a Mastercard company, he has been instrumental in expanding access to consumer-permissioned financial data across the credit ecosystem. His experience in scaling data-driven platforms and shaping fintech regulation will bring strategic depth to TomoCredit as it accelerates its growth and product innovation.

"We are thrilled to welcome Steve to our board," said Kristy Kim, CEO and Founder of TomoCredit. "His expertise in financial infrastructure and data accessibility perfectly aligns with our mission to make credit more inclusive. As we scale, Steve's vision and track record will be invaluable in guiding TomoCredit to serve millions more who are overlooked by traditional credit models."

Steve Smith's appointment comes at a pivotal time for TomoCredit, as the company strengthens its position as a leading personal financial wellness platform. TomoCredit is committed to helping individuals take control of their financial futures by leveraging personal finance data to deliver smarter, more inclusive tools for credit building and money management. By focusing on the financial behaviors that truly reflect a person's responsibility, like income patterns, spending habits, and payment consistency, TomoCredit empowers thin-file and no-file users to build healthy financial lives, independent of traditional credit systems.

"TomoCredit is at the forefront of solving one of the most urgent financial challenges of our timecredit access," said Steve Smith. "I'm excited to join this passionate and innovative team. Together, we'll help redefine what credit inclusion looks like in the modern economy."

Smith joins a board that includes fintech, banking, and consumer advocacy leaders, reinforcing TomoCredit's commitment to building a diverse and high-impact governance team.

TomoCredit's mission to enhance credit accessibility is particularly crucial in a landscape where over 100 million Americans have little to no credit history. Traditional credit scoring models often exclude these individuals, making it difficult for them to secure loans. By focusing on real-time cash flow data and innovative underwriting practices, TomoCredit is paving the way for a more inclusive financial future.

About TomoCredit

Founded in 2019 by Kristy Kim, TomoCredit is a champion for financial inclusion. Based in San Francisco, TomoCredit is transforming the credit industry, offering solutions to establish a robust credit history for those considered "credit invisible"  including new U.S. citizens without prior credit history, small and medium-sized business owners, students, and other young adults who demonstrate sound financial practices.

Media Contact:

Jenny Beres

[email protected]

941-993-7222

SOURCE TomoCredit
LOS ANGELES, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Iconic footwear brand TOMS is thrilled to announce a new collaboration with La La Land Kind Cafe as a continuation of its Moments of Joy campaign. Launching May 8, 2025, TOMS will host a limited-time cafe takeover at two of the top La La Land Kind Cafes in Los Angeles at Santa Monica and The Grove locations. In addition to the pop-up, TOMS will launch its first-ever Family Casting Call, inviting families across the U.S. and Canada to share their stories for a chance to be featured in the company's next marketing campaign.

TOMS' cafe takeover will bring moments of joy in more ways than one. To start, customers can sip on the exclusive TOMS' "Cup of Joy" drink: an iced vanilla latte or matcha topped with a signature blue spirulina foam, exclusively served at select La La Kind Cafe locations. The space will also encourage customers to share their experience on social media, with cute TOMS-branded decor, photo-worthy moments, and a peek at some of their most popular shoes from the Spring 2025 collection. To kick things off, the first 100 customers to visit each location on May 8 for the grand opening will receive a free pair of TOMS sunglasses with their TOMS Cup of Joy purchase.

TOMS has made a name for itself with its cool, laid-back LA roots, combining versatility, comfort, and on-trend style. TOMS has also woven giving back and community empowerment into its mission since the beginning. Today, TOMS purchases help support children's education, health and well-being, giving kids everywhere the gift of better tomorrows. The partnership with La La Land Kind Cafe reflects this brand ethos, aligning with their own mission of spreading kindness and making a lasting impact. To celebrate the collaboration, TOMS is donating to the La La Land Foundation to help benefit foster youth in our communities.

"At La La Kind Cafe, our mission has always been to spread kindness and uplift youth aging out of foster care. Partnering with TOMSanother brand deeply rooted in purposeamplifies that mission in such a meaningful way," said Francois Reihani, CEO and founder of La La Kind Cafe. "Together, we're not just raising awareness this month; we're creating real opportunities and lasting change."

In tandem with the pop-up, TOMS is introducing its first-ever Family Casting Call, running May 8 through May 30. The brand believes every family has a story worth celebrating  one filled with joy, confidence, and purpose. TOMS is searching for real families who embody these values to feature in its next marketing campaign.

Families can participate in two ways:

Enter Online: Submit up to three family photos and answer a few short questions about how your family embodies TOMS' core values by visiting TOMS.com/casting between Thursday, May 8 - Friday, May 30 , 2025

Submit up to three family photos and answer a few short questions about how your family embodies TOMS' core values by visiting TOMS.com/casting between , 2025 Enter in Person ( Los Angeles only): On Saturday, May 17 at La La Land Kind Cafe The Grove and Sunday, May 18 at La La Land Kind Cafe Santa Monica , families can stop by to snap a free professional family photo, receive a printed and digital copy, and enjoy a complimentary TOMS Cup of Joy latte with contest entry.

100 families will be selected for a public voting round. The top 10 will move into a final round, with one grand prize winner receiving a professional LA-based photo shoot experience, a spot in TOMS' next marketing campaign and a $1,000 TOMS gift card. Two runners-up will take home TOMS gift cards.

TOMS X LA LA LAND KIND CAFE TAKEOVER LOCATIONS

La La Land Kind Cafe The Grove - 189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles

La La Land Kind Cafe Santa Monica - 1426 Montana Ave, Santa Monica

"Everything we're doing, from the cafe takeover to the casting call, is about bringing joy to real people in real moments," said Amber Tarshis, Chief Brand and Impact Officer at TOMS. "Whether it's through a joyful latte or meaningful family story, we want to celebrate the everyday ways our brand shows up in people's lives. And we couldn't think of a better partner to help us do this than La La Land Kind Cafe."

TOMS has deep roots in the LA community and is excited to extend that even further with the La La Land Kind Cafe collaboration. TOMS' newest collection - which will be highlighted at the pop-up - is available to shop now at TOMS.com .

Media Contact:

TOMS - Sarah Lundgren - [email protected]

La La Land Kind Cafe - [email protected]

ABOUT TOMS SHOES, LLC

We bring effortless style and endless comfort to your everyday life. From little moments to big adventures, our shoes empower you and yours to take on each day with confidence, joy, and purpose. TOMS makes the in-between moments matter as much as the destination - every step is one worth celebrating. Born in the heart of Venice Beach in 2006, our laid-back, easygoing spirit is woven into every pair. It all began with the Alpargata - our iconic slip-on that became synonymous with simplicity, comfort, and community. Today, we offer styles for everyone, with a variety of designs for wherever your day takes you. But TOMS is more than shoes - we're in business to improve lives. Your TOMS purchase helps support children's education, health, and well-being. Together, we've positively impacted over 105 million lives. As a Certified B Corp, doing good is literally in our soles.

About La La Land Kind Cafe

La La Land Kind Cafe is a mission-driven coffee shop founded by social entrepreneur Francois Reihani to "normalize kindness" through hospitality and purpose. Launched in 2019 in Dallas, Texas, the cafe is known for its sunny yellow branding, organic ingredients, and feel-good energybut it's more than just great coffee. La La Land Kind Cafe is a social enterprise dedicated to supporting foster youth aging out of the system, providing paid internships, mentorship, and real-world job training through its nonprofit, the We Are One Project. With a growing footprint of locations across Texas and California, the cafe's motto"Kindness first, coffee second"is at the heart of everything it does. Learn more at lalalandkindcafe.com .

About La La Foundation

The La La Foundation is the nonprofit arm of La La Land Kind Cafe, created to empower and uplift foster youth aging out of the system. Founded by Francois Reihani, the Foundation provides critical life skills, paid job training, mentorship, and long-term support to help young adults transition successfully into independent living. At the heart of the La La Foundation is a belief that everyone deserves to be seen, supported, and given a fair chance. Through its holistic programming and community-driven approach, the Foundation works to rewrite the narrative for former foster youthone act of kindness at a time. To learn more or get involved, visit La La Land Foundation .

SOURCE TOMS
An independent research firm evaluates each company's entry based on key metrics in various categories including; Compensation, Benefits and Employee Solutions; Creative Wellness and Wellbeing Solutions, Employee Enrichment, Engagement and Retention; Employee Education and Development; Recruitment and Selection; Employee Achievement and Recognition; Communication and Shared Vision; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; Work-Life Blend; Community Initiatives and Corporate Responsibility; and Leadership, Strategy and Company Performance.

"These companies have excelled by prioritizing their workplace culture. By putting their employees first, this exceptional group of top-tier leaders has created a strong foundation that sets them apart as leaders in their industries and communities," said Jennifer Kluge, President and CEO of NABR and The Best and Brightest Program.

"At Trintech, our success is driven by the humility, empowerment, reliability, and openness of our outstanding team," said Darren Heffernan, CEO of Trintech. "This award is a powerful validation of our commitment to these core values and our ongoing efforts to cultivate a collaborative culture where innovation thrives, and individuals are supported in their personal and professional growth. As we stand at a pivotal moment with exciting opportunities on the horizon, attracting and retaining talent that aligns with our values is essential to driving our next chapter. We're honored by this recognition, which further strengthens our position as an employer of choice in North Texas and around the world."

Committed to providing a work environment focused on work-life blend, healthy lifestyles, community service and personal and professional development, Trintech continues to provide its employees with several benefits including: Open time off (OTO), comprehensive healthcare and wellness programs, 100% company-paid volunteer time, and a tuition reimbursement program to name a few. If you're looking to join a company that continues to invest in its employees, customers, and community, check out Trintech's open positions.

About Trintech

Trintech gives people time back for what matters most. Our cloudbased platform and solutions enable thousands of clients worldwide to lead productivity transformation across their finance and accounting organizations  driving efficiencies, ensuring accuracy to mitigate risk, and empowering strategic decision-making. Make time count with Trintech.

As the leader in Financial Close Management, Trintech is headquartered in Plano, Texas with offices and strategic resellers across United States, Europe, Australia, South America, Africa, and Asia Pacific. With a strong partner ecosystem, Trintech collaborates with over 100 companies to create a network of interconnected businesses. To learn more about Trintech, visit www.trintech.com.

Media Contact:

Kelli Shoevlin

Director, Global Corporate Marketing & Communications

[email protected]

SOURCE Trintech
DALLAS, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Unifeye Vision Partners ("UVP"), a leading ambulatory surgery center operator with integrated practice management services to the ophthalmology market, announced today its partnership with Brooks Eye Associates, a Plano, Texas based ophthalmology practice and surgery center. Concurrently, UVP received a growth capital investment from Morgan Stanley Private Credit ("MSPC") to support the financing of the partnership. PGIM Private Capital also participated in the financing transaction.

UVP Logo

Led by Dr. Dain B. Brooks, Brooks Eye Associates has been serving the Plano, Texas market since 2013 providing comprehensive eye care including cataract surgery, advanced refractive procedures, glaucoma treatments, and retinal care. Brooks Eye Associates is also recognized for its philanthropic leadership. Dr. Brooks has led humanitarian eye care missions in underserved regions including India, Mexico, and Ecuador, reflecting the practice's dedication to global vision care and aligning with Unifeye Vision Partner's core values. Brooks Eye Associates focus and commitment to patient-centered care aligns with UVP's mission, vision, and values of supporting clinical and surgical care across the full spectrum of ophthalmology.

"What attracted us to UVP was their shared commitment to excellence in both clinical care and patient experience," said Dr. Dain B. Brooks. "Their values align closely with oursrooted in integrity, innovation, and a deep respect for physician leadership. We're excited to grow together while continuing to serve our community with the highest standard of care."

"We are excited to welcome Dr. Brooks and his practice to UVP," said Martin Rash, CEO of UVP. "Their focus and commitment to innovation and high-quality outcomes makes them a natural fit for UVP and a big part of our growth plan in Texas and beyond."

By joining UVP, Brooks Eye Associates gains access to expanded resources, operational support, and strategic guidancewhile continuing to lead with clinical autonomy. UVP's physician-led model empowers its partners to grow sustainably and stay focused on delivering the highest standard of patient care.

Mike Lehman, Principal with Waud Capital Partners, UVP's founding investor, commented, "The Brooks Eye Associates partnership and strategic growth investment is a pivotal moment and milestone for UVP. It will provide the Company with additional resources to continue its growth trajectory in existing and new geographies while emphasizing ambulatory surgical operations and high-quality patient care."

"We are pleased to be UVP's financing partner and support the company in its next phase of growth," said Ashwin Krishnan, co-Head of North America Private Credit, Morgan Stanley Investment Management. "This debt investment is an example of our ability to provide flexible credit capital in the current operating environment."

Harris Williams LLC advised UVP and acted as exclusive placement agent in connection with the transaction.

QS Capital Advisors acted as the exclusive advisor to Brooks Eye Associates in connection with the partnership.

About Unifeye Vision Partners

Unifeye Vision Partners is a physician-led ambulatory surgery center operator with integrated practice management services focused on ophthalmology. The company delivers comprehensive management and support services to ophthalmology and optometry practices, as well as single-specialty eye surgery centers. Today UVP supports a network of 64 clinic locations and 19 ambulatory surgery centers. For more information, visit www.uvpeye.com.

About Waud Capital Partners

Based in Chicago and founded by Reeve B. Waud, Waud Capital Partners is a growth-oriented private equity firm with over 30 years of investing experience. Waud Capital Partners seeks to partner with experienced management teams to build market-leading companies within two industries: healthcare and software & technology. Since its founding in 1993, Waud Capital has successfully completed more than 480 investments, including platform companies and follow-on opportunities. For additional information on Waud Capital, please visit www.waudcapital.com.

About Morgan Stanley Private Credit

Morgan Stanley Private Credit, part of Morgan Stanley Investment Management, is a private credit platform focused on direct lending and opportunistic private credit investment in North America and Western Europe. The Morgan Stanley Private Credit team invests across the capital structure, including senior secured term loans, unitranche loans, junior debt, structured equity and common equity co-investments.

For Further Information and Inquiries:

Martin Rash, Chairman & CEO

Unifeye Vision Partners

(214) 974-0999

[email protected]

Mike Lehman, Principal

Waud Capital Partners

(312) 676-8400

[email protected]

SOURCE Waud Capital Partners
National independent agency stands out for leveraging integrations to simplify processes and drive growth

DENVER , May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Vertafore, the leader in modern insurance technology, recognized PolicyWatch with its 2025 Connected Agency Excellence Award during the InsurTech leader's annual user conference, Accelerate, powered by NetVU.

The award honors independent agencies who are leading the way in adopting connected technologies to drive performance and scale.

PolicyWatch recently selected Vertafore as their InsurTech partner of choice, leveraging the AgencyOne platform, centered on AMS360 and AgencyZoom. Since onboarding, the agency has fostered deeper technology connections that have accelerated their ability to process a high volume of leads while unlocking new efficiencies. In addition, PolicyWatch has created greater visibility for agency leadership, giving them insights to drive the organization's strategy and operations.

PolicyWatch is known for its vision to simplify and improve the insurance client experience by combining the latest technologies with a top-notch team of insurance agents. Headquartered outside Austin, Texas, the independent agency serves personal and commercial clients across all 50 states.

"PolicyWatch has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to leveraging technology and tight integrations to simplify processes and get more done for their business and clients," said Rick Warter, Vertafore's chief customer officer. "We're proud to honor PolicyWatch for its partnership and technology leadership."

Vertafore customers and insurance professionals are experiencing what's new and next in InsurTech at Accelerate, the insurance industry's first and longest running technology conference, continuing through May 9 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

About Vertafore

As North America's InsurTech leader, Vertafore is simplifying and automating the insurance lifecycle so independent agents, MGAs and carriers can focus on what matters most. Vertafore's solutions empower the connected agency, accelerate innovation for MGAs, and provide the industry's most comprehensive distribution management platform for insurers. By driving results for customers of all sizes, Vertafore focuses on operational excellence, develops innovative solutions and aligns with key industry partners. Vertafore serves more insurance customers than any other insurance technology provider. Learn more at www.vertafore.com.

2025 Vertafore and the Vertafore logo are registered trademarks of Vertafore. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

MEDIA CONTACT:

INK Communications

[email protected]

SOURCE Vertafore, Inc.
PUNE, India, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The global Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) Software Market was valued at USD 15,828.51 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 62,175.53 million by 2032, expanding at a robust CAGR of 18.53% over the forecast period from 2024 to 2032. This significant growth reflects the increasing demand for secure, scalable, and remote-accessible desktop environments across enterprises of all sizes. Organizations are rapidly adopting VDI solutions to support hybrid work models, enhance endpoint security, and reduce IT maintenance costs. The technology's ability to centralize desktop management, improve workforce mobility, and support bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies further contributes to its widespread adoption.

Key drivers fueling this market include the surge in remote work, rising concerns over data security, and the growing need for streamlined IT infrastructure. VDI platforms allow businesses to virtualize desktops and applications, enabling users to access their workspace from any device, anytime, with enhanced data protection. Additionally, advancements in cloud computing and increased integration of AI and machine learning in VDI platforms are improving performance and user experience. With increasing investments in digital transformation and IT modernization, particularly in sectors such as BFSI, healthcare, education, and government, the VDI software market is poised for sustained growth throughout the forecast period.

Browse the report and understand how it can benefit your business strategy - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/virtual-desktop-infrastructure-vdi-software-market

Key Growth Determinants

Surge in Remote and Hybrid Work Models:

One of the primary growth drivers for the VDI software market is the global shift toward remote and hybrid working environments. Enterprises across sectors are increasingly deploying VDI solutions to provide secure, flexible access to corporate systems for remote employees. This trend was accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to shape IT infrastructure decisions, prompting long-term investments in virtual desktop environments.

Rising Focus on Data Security and Compliance:

As cyber threats grow in frequency and complexity, organizations are prioritizing secure access to sensitive data and applications. VDI offers centralized data storage and management, reducing the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access. Additionally, the ability to enforce consistent security policies across distributed endpoints makes VDI an attractive solution for industries with strict compliance requirements, such as finance, government, and healthcare.

Cost Efficiency and Simplified IT Management:

VDI software enables organizations to streamline desktop provisioning and management, leading to lower operational and maintenance costs. IT departments benefit from simplified deployment, centralized control, and reduced hardware dependence, especially as virtual desktops can be hosted on less expensive thin clients. This cost-effectiveness is especially beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises seeking to optimize their IT budgets.

Advancements in Cloud and AI Integration:

The integration of cloud computing with VDI solutions has significantly expanded deployment flexibility, scalability, and accessibility. Cloud-based VDI models, including Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS), offer reduced infrastructure requirements and enhanced performance. Moreover, the incorporation of AI and machine learning capabilities enables proactive system monitoring, performance optimization, and predictive analytics, making VDI solutions more intelligent and efficient.

These growth factors, combined with the increasing digitization of workplaces and rising demand for workforce mobility, are expected to drive robust expansion in the VDI software market over the coming years.

Key Growth Barriers

High Initial Setup Costs:

One of the major challenges limiting the adoption of VDI software is the significant upfront investment required. Deploying VDI involves purchasing servers, storage systems, networking components, and software licenses, which can be financially burdensomeespecially for small and medium-sized enterprises. These capital-intensive requirements often deter businesses from shifting to virtual environments, despite the long-term benefits.

Performance and Scalability Constraints:

Maintaining optimal performance and scalability in VDI deployments can be technically demanding. Factors such as limited server capacity, network bottlenecks, and high user density can lead to lag, slow application loading times, and user dissatisfaction. Scaling VDI solutions to accommodate more users while maintaining consistent performance requires advanced planning and resource optimization.

Dependency on Network Infrastructure:

VDI systems are highly reliant on stable, high-speed internet connections. In regions with inadequate network infrastructure, users may experience frequent disconnections, latency, and performance drops, hindering productivity. This dependence on reliable connectivity presents a considerable barrier, particularly in developing or rural areas where broadband access may be limited.

Complexity in Deployment and Management:

Implementing VDI involves integrating various components such as hypervisors, storage, networking, and user profile management, which demands skilled IT professionals. The lack of technical expertise and the complexity of managing virtual environments can lead to misconfigurations, increased operational costs, and potential system downtime, posing challenges for organizations with limited IT resources.

Compatibility and Application Limitations:

Not all software applications are optimized for virtual environments. Applications that require high graphical processing power or specialized hardware may perform poorly or be incompatible with VDI platforms. This restricts the range of workloads that can be effectively migrated to a virtual desktop setup, limiting adoption in sectors dependent on resource-intensive applications.

Security and Data Privacy Concerns:

While VDI can centralize data to enhance security, it also introduces new vulnerabilities. A breach at the server level can potentially expose multiple virtual desktops. Moreover, managing compliance with data privacy regulations, particularly in cloud-hosted VDI models, remains a concern for enterprises operating in highly regulated industries.

Segmentation

Deployment Model

On-Premises VDI

Cloud-Based VDI

Hybrid VDI

Organization Size

Small Enterprises

Medium Enterprises

Large Enterprises

End-user Industry

Healthcare

IT and Telecom

Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI)

Others

Access Device Type

Desktop Computers

Laptops

Tablets

Smartphones

Others

Type of Virtualization

Full Virtualization

Paravirtualization

Hardware-Assisted Virtualization

Based on region

North America

The U.S.



Canada



Mexico

Europe

Germany



France



UK.



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



The 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/virtual-desktop-infrastructure-vdi-software-market

Regional Analysis

North America:

North America dominates the global VDI software market, driven by widespread digital transformation, high adoption of cloud computing, and the presence of leading VDI providers. The region's strong IT infrastructure and advanced cybersecurity standards have encouraged enterprises across sectorssuch as BFSI, healthcare, and educationto implement VDI solutions. Additionally, the widespread shift to hybrid and remote work has led to increased investments in virtual desktop platforms, particularly in the United States and Canada.

Europe:

Europe holds a substantial share of the VDI market, supported by rising demand for secure and scalable digital workspaces across the corporate and public sectors. Countries like Germany, the UK, and France are witnessing growing adoption of VDI in response to stricter data protection regulations such as the GDPR. Moreover, the increasing focus on operational efficiency, coupled with rising cloud adoption and investments in AI-powered IT solutions, further supports market growth in the region.

Asia-Pacific:

Asia-Pacific is expected to exhibit the fastest growth in the VDI software market over the forecast period. This is primarily due to the rapid expansion of the IT and telecom sectors, increased use of mobile and remote work solutions, and significant investments in cloud infrastructure. Emerging economies such as China, India, and Southeast Asian countries are adopting VDI to enhance workforce flexibility and data security, particularly in small and medium-sized enterprises transitioning toward digital business models.

Latin America and Middle East & Africa (MEA):

The Latin America and MEA regions are gradually adopting VDI technologies, driven by increasing awareness of the benefits of virtual work environments and improving internet infrastructure. In Latin America, Brazil and Mexico are leading adopters, while the Middle East is witnessing increased VDI adoption in sectors such as oil & gas, healthcare, and government. However, growth in these regions may be moderated by limited IT budgets and a shortage of skilled technical professionals.

Credence Research's Competitive Landscape Analysis

The global Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) software market is characterized by the presence of several well-established players, coupled with emerging vendors that are innovating in cloud-based and AI-integrated solutions. The competitive landscape is moderately fragmented, with a mix of global technology giants and specialized VDI solution providers competing based on scalability, security features, cost-efficiency, and user experience.

Leading Players and Market Share Dynamics:

Major players such as Microsoft Corporation, Amazon Web Services (AWS), VMware Inc., Citrix Systems Inc., and Google LLC hold significant market share due to their comprehensive product portfolios, strong brand presence, and global distribution networks. These companies consistently invest in R&D to enhance their offerings with AI, automation, and better cloud integration, helping them retain competitive advantage. Microsoft and AWS, in particular, benefit from their broader cloud ecosystem integration, allowing seamless deployment of VDI as part of larger digital workplace solutions.

Strategic Collaborations and M&A Activities:

The market is witnessing a rise in strategic collaborations, partnerships, and acquisitions aimed at expanding product capabilities and customer reach. For instance, vendors are teaming up with managed service providers and hardware manufacturers to deliver integrated desktop-as-a-service (DaaS) solutions. Mergers and acquisitions are also reshaping the competitive landscape, enabling companies to acquire niche technologies and enter new regional markets.

Innovation and Differentiation:

Smaller players such as V2Cloud Solutions, Fujitsu Ltd., and NEC Corporation are focusing on innovation and customer-centric solutions to differentiate themselves. These companies often offer customizable deployment models, industry-specific features, and strong customer support to attract SMEs and vertical-specific clients. Cloud-native, zero-trust security, and high-performance graphics processing for remote applications are becoming key areas of innovation.

Barriers to Entry and Competitive Pressure:

Despite growing demand, the high capital and technological expertise required for VDI platform development pose a significant barrier to new entrants. Meanwhile, the competitive pressure among incumbents is intensifying, prompting continuous enhancements in performance, user interface, and cost structure. As demand for remote and hybrid work solutions continues to rise, vendors are expected to compete aggressively on scalability, security, and total cost of ownership.

Tailor the report to align with your specific business needs and gain targeted insights. Request Full Report Here - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/virtual-desktop-infrastructure-vdi-software-market

Key Player Analysis

Citrix Systems Inc.

Cisco Systems Inc.

Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd

RedHat Inc

VMware Inc.

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Microsoft Corporation

Google LLC

IBM Corporation

V2Cloud Solutions, Inc.

Fujitsu Ltd.

NEC Corporation

Recent Industry Developments

2021

H2 2021  Venn Technology introduced Local Zone technology, a SaaS-based solution addressing security and compliance challenges in remote and hybrid work environments. It aimed to deliver a seamless VDI experience by eliminating key operational issues.

2022

June 2022  Citrix launched Citrix Managed Desktops , a DaaS solution built on Microsoft Azure, enabling simplified management and delivery of virtual apps and desktops.

 Citrix launched , a DaaS solution built on Microsoft Azure, enabling simplified management and delivery of virtual apps and desktops. July 2022  Nerdio partnered with Rimo3 to help enterprises accelerate deployment of Azure Virtual Desktop by simplifying application testing and delivery.

 Nerdio partnered with Rimo3 to help enterprises accelerate deployment of Azure Virtual Desktop by simplifying application testing and delivery. September 2022  Amazon Web Services launched Amazon Workspace Core , a suite of APIs to support third-party VDI providers.

 Amazon Web Services launched , a suite of APIs to support third-party VDI providers. October 2022  VMware released vSphere 8, enhancing virtualization capabilities for application development, deployment, and security.

2023

February 2023  Leostream deployed its enterprise remote access tool for Japan's ID Networks to improve virtual desktop application performance.

 Leostream deployed its enterprise remote access tool for ID Networks to improve virtual desktop application performance. June 2023  Agile Directive partnered with Kasm Technologies to deliver secure remote access, browser isolation, and on-demand virtual desktops.

 Agile Directive partnered with Kasm Technologies to deliver secure remote access, browser isolation, and on-demand virtual desktops. July 2023  Citrix introduced cloud and on-premise services to support hybrid deployment models, allowing flexibility in application delivery across multi-cloud environments.

 Citrix introduced cloud and on-premise services to support hybrid deployment models, allowing flexibility in application delivery across multi-cloud environments. August 2023  VMware announced AI integrations into its Anywhere Workspace platform, unifying VDI, endpoint management, and security for an enhanced employee experience.

2024

February 2024  Cisco and NVIDIA collaborated to simplify secure AI infrastructure deployment, supporting hybrid workforces through AI-driven conferencing and VDI.

 Cisco and NVIDIA collaborated to simplify secure AI infrastructure deployment, supporting hybrid workforces through AI-driven conferencing and VDI. February 2024  Microsoft launched Azure Virtual Desktop for on-premise environments, offering VDI benefits with on-site control of apps and data.

 Microsoft launched for on-premise environments, offering VDI benefits with on-site control of apps and data. June 2024  Microsoft introduced VDI enhancements for Microsoft Teams , featuring Slimcore media engine for better performance and streamlined updates.

 Microsoft introduced VDI enhancements for , featuring Slimcore media engine for better performance and streamlined updates. June 2024  Google acquired Cameyo , boosting its virtual Windows app delivery capabilities on ChromeOS and strengthening its competitive stance against major VDI players.

 Google acquired , boosting its virtual Windows app delivery capabilities on ChromeOS and strengthening its competitive stance against major VDI players. September 2024  Kasm Technologies launched Kasm Workspace , a Kubernetes-native VDI solution supporting cloud, on-premise, hybrid, and multi-cloud deployments for dynamic workforce requirements.

 Kasm Technologies launched , a Kubernetes-native VDI solution supporting cloud, on-premise, hybrid, and multi-cloud deployments for dynamic workforce requirements. October 2024  CrowdStrike partnered with Omnissa to enhance real-time threat detection and response in VDI and physical desktop environments.

 CrowdStrike partnered with Omnissa to enhance real-time threat detection and response in VDI and physical desktop environments. 2024 (General)  North America dominated the VDI market with ~30% market share and USD 6 billion revenue, driven by outsourcing, remote work trends, and rising cyber threats.

Reasons to Purchase this Report:

Gain a comprehensive understanding of the market through qualitative and quantitative analyses, considering both economic and non-economic factors, with segmentation and sub-segmentation details provided in terms of market value (USD Billion).

Identify regions and segments expected to experience the fastest growth or dominate the market, with a detailed analysis of geographic consumption patterns and the factors driving or hindering market performance in each region.

Stay informed about the competitive environment, with rankings of major players, recent product and service launches, partnerships, business expansions, and acquisitions from the past five years.

Access detailed profiles of major market players, including company overviews, insights, product benchmarking, and SWOT analysis, to understand competitive advantages and market positioning.

Explore the present and forecasted market landscape, with insights into growth opportunities, market drivers, challenges, and constraints for both developed and emerging regions.

Benefit from Porter's Five Forces analysis and Value Chain insights to evaluate various market perspectives and competitive dynamics.

Understand the evolving market scenario, including potential growth opportunities and trends expected in the coming years.

Browse the report and understand how it can benefit your business strategy - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/virtual-desktop-infrastructure-vdi-software-market

Discover additional reports tailored to your industry needs

Virtual Machine Market - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/virtual-machine-market

Data Virtualization Cloud Market - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/data-virtualization-cloud-market

Data Center Virtualization Market - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/data-center-virtualization-market

Application Virtualization Market - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/application-virtualization-market

Virtual Workspace Solutions Market - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/virtual-workspace-solutions-market

Virtual Private Server Market - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/virtual-private-server-market

Virtual Infrastructure Manager Market - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/virtual-infrastructure-manager-market

Desktop as a Service Market - https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/desktop-as-a-service-market

Follow Us:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/credenceresearch/

https://x.com/CredenceResearc

https://www.facebook.com/CredenceResearch

About Us:

Credence Research is a viable intelligence and market research platform that provides quantitative B2B research to more than 2000 clients worldwide and is built on the Give principle. The company is a market research and consulting firm serving governments, non-legislative associations, non-profit organizations, and various organizations worldwide. We help our clients improve their execution in a lasting way and understand their most imperative objectives.

Contact Us

Mitul Dean

Tower C-1105 , S 25, Akash Tower,

Vishal Nahar, Pimple Nilakh, Haveli,

Pune  411027, India

[email protected]

www.credenceresearch.com

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2562161/5306789/Credence_Research_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Credence Research Inc.
HENDERSON, Nev., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- VolitionRx Limited (NYSE AMERICAN: VNRX) ("Volition"), a multi-national epigenetics company, today announces that Chief Commercial Officer, Gael Forterre, has issued a commercial update on Volition's Nu.Q NETs product.

A Message from our Chief Commercial Officer

As was stated in our shareholder update recently, 2025 is a pivotal year for Volition as we focus on commercializing our groundbreaking Nu.Q platform in the human diagnostics market. Today, I would like to focus on the large, and very broad Nu.Q NETs (NETosis) opportunity.

Our efforts on this are two-pronged:

1. Licensing

To negotiate with large multi-national companies to launch our Nu.Q NETs test on their extensive base of installed machines already servicing every hospital in the world, with existing labs and sales teams. The focus of these discussions is centered around significant unmet needs in sepsis and coagulation. The aim, as we successfully achieved in the vet space, is to operate a low CapEx / low OpEx model; Low CapEx for our partners in that they already have a global footprint of their automated systems and low OpEx for Volition as the majority of functions (sales, regulatory and clinical affairs, sales, marketing) are conducted by our partners. Volition simply provides access to its intellectual property and the supply of key components for the test itself. We believe this is a win-win for everyone, allowing broad adoption worldwide with limited investment and giving these large companies a new revenue stream from their installed base.

I am delighted to report we are in confidential discussions regarding the licensing and supply of our Nu.Q NETs assay with seven international companies. Notably, the combined market value of six of these companies is just under $600billion1, underscoring the significant global strength, potential reach and impact our technology could achieve through such partnerships.

We are making significant headway in the commercialization of Nu.Q NETs. Licensing discussions are progressing well with several potential licensing companies having already successfully completed the tech transfer of our assay onto their platform(s). Our goal is to secure multiple licensing agreements in the human diagnostics space, mirroring our successful strategy in the veterinary market, with diverse deal structures, all with ongoing revenue and some to include large milestone payments. Volition's technology has already been successfully transferred and run on several other companies' analyzers.

Our strong clinical evidence supports the use of our Nu.Q NETs technology in a critical area, sepsis. The Total Addressable Market for the testing and monitoring of Intensive Care Patients alone represents a $1 billion opportunity annually2, offering substantial revenue opportunities for Volition and our future partners. We believe, as I will discuss shortly, that the Total Addressable Market for our Nu.Q NETs assay could be in excess of $10 billion annually2, as the use cases expand far beyond sepsis.

2. Leverage existing CE-marked Nu.Q NETs test

The second prong of our strategy is to leverage our granted CE mark, approved in the EU for any NETs related diseases. As a reminder, Volition's chemiluminescent immunoassay (ChLIA) version of the CE-marked Nu.Q NETs Test is via the IDS-i10 automated analyzer platform from Immunodiagnostic Systems, a subsidiary of Revvity. I would like to thank Immunodiagnostic Systems for their collaborative approach. Our aim is to sell this product, either directly or in conjunction with Immunodiagnostic Systems, to institutions for use in the very wide range of clinical applications where NETosis plays a critical role.

In a significant commercial milestone, we recorded our first revenue from sales of our CE-Marked Nu.Q NETs automated product in Europe in Q1 2025. This is the first revenue generated from a regulated clinically approved product. Nine hospital networks in five countries have placed orders and are currently assessing its clinical utility in a range of NETs applications (see table below) with the intention, we believe, of integrating it directly into their routine patient care. In addition, we are in discussions with a further twelve hospital networks, with at least nine evaluations anticipated to start in the second half of 2025. In short, a number of groups are buying our CE marked product with the view to using it clinically in a diverse range of NETs-related uses. We are delighted with the level and breadth of interest that we have seen in the past six months and we continue to receive more inbound enquiries.

The range of potential clinical use cases where NETosis plays a role is extremely broad, equating to a mix of potential market sizes (from small to very large); there is clearly wide unmet clinical needs driving these evaluations.

NETs are a key part of a broad range of clinical conditions, and our aim is to become the "NETs company" worldwide, by partnering with the very best companies, hospital networks and governments. The level interest in using our Nu.Q NETs test is notable: clinical use cases include coagulation, cardiac issues, renal disease, trauma, burns, auto immune diseases, organ transplant, pregnancy management and of course the biggest being Sepsis.

We expect, through this second prong that our Nu.Q NETs test will start to be used in routine clinical practice with patients next year in the EU and then expanded to use worldwide through the expected global licensing agreements of the first prong to our strategy. This is a great outcome for Volition; they buy kits, generating not only revenue but also clinical data for a wide range of use cases.

We look forward to updating you in the exciting months ahead.

Clinical Applications Under Evaluation by Centers of Excellence in Europe with Nu.Q NETs CE-marked test Sepsis patient management Treatment monitoring of sepsis patients (EMBRACE trial NCT06694701) Sepsis associated Acute Kidney Injury prediction Follow-up of discharged patients from ICU Burns Distinction between SIRS and sepsis patients Cardiac disease x 2 centers Cardiopathy post surgery patient management Acute brain injury Anaphylactic shock during anesthesia Lung post-transplant patient management Autoimmune diseases such as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Rheumatoid Arthritis NETosis in synovial fluid for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Potential Clinical Applications in Discussion Burns Distinction between SIRS and sepsis patients Sepsis patient management x 6 centers Pediatric sepsis management Pregnancy management x2 centers Inflammatory conditions

Combined stock market valuation as of 15th April 2025 , data on file Data on file, Volition Total Addressable Market Model

About Volition

Volition is a multi-national company focused on advancing the science of epigenetics. Volition is dedicated to saving lives and improving outcomes for people and animals with life-altering diseases through earlier detection, as well as disease and treatment monitoring.

Through its subsidiaries, Volition is developing and commercializing simple, easy to use, cost-effective blood tests to help detect and monitor a range of diseases, including some cancers and diseases associated with NETosis, such as sepsis. Early detection and monitoring have the potential not only to prolong the life of patients, but also to improve their quality of life.

Volition's research and development activities are centered in Belgium, with an innovation laboratory and office in the U.S. and an office in London.

The contents found at Volition's website address are not incorporated by reference into this document and should not be considered part of this document. Such website address is included in this document as an inactive textual reference only.

Media Enquiries:

Louise Batchelor, Volition, [email protected] +44 (0)7557 774620

Investor Relations:

Jeremy Feffer, LifeSci Advisors, [email protected] +1-212-915-2568

Safe Harbor Statement

Statements in this press release may be "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, that concern matters that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated or projected in the forward-looking statements. Words such as "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "aims," "targets," "believes," "seeks," "estimates," "optimizing," "potential," "goal," "suggests," "could," "would," "should," "may," "will" and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements relate to, among other topics, the exercise of the milestone-linked warrants upon the achievement of such milestone events or otherwise prior to their expiration, Volition's expectations related to revenue opportunities and growth, the timing, completion, success and delivery of data from clinical studies, the timing of publications, the effectiveness of Volition's cost reduction measures, the effectiveness and availability of Volition's blood-based diagnostic, prognostic and disease monitoring tests, Volition's ability to develop and successfully commercialize such test platforms for early detection of cancer and other diseases as well as serving as a diagnostic, prognostic or disease monitoring tools for such diseases, and Volition's success in securing licensing and/or distribution agreements with third parties for its products. Volition's actual results may differ materially from those indicated in these forward-looking statements due to numerous risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, results of studies testing the efficacy of its tests. For instance, if Volition fails to develop and commercialize diagnostic, prognostic or disease monitoring products, it may be unable to execute its plan of operations. Other risks and uncertainties include Volition's failure to obtain necessary regulatory clearances or approvals to distribute and market future products; a failure by the marketplace to accept the products in Volition's development pipeline or any other diagnostic, prognostic or disease monitoring products Volition might develop; Volition's failure to secure adequate intellectual property protection; Volition will face fierce competition and Volition's intended products may become obsolete due to the highly competitive nature of the diagnostics and disease monitoring market and its rapid technological change; downturns in domestic and foreign economies; and other risks, including those identified in Volition's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, as well as other documents that Volition files with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about Volition's business based, in part, on assumptions made by management. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this release, and, except as required by law, Volition does not undertake an obligation to update its forward-looking statements to reflect future events or circumstances.

Nucleosomics, Capture-PCR, Capture-Seq and Nu.Q and their respective logos are trademarks and/or service marks of VolitionRx Limited and its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, service marks and trade names referred to in this press release are the property of their respective owners. Additionally, unless otherwise specified, all references to "$" refer to the legal currency of the United States of America.

SOURCE VolitionRx Limited
The Organization Will Serve As Co-Operator and Co-Manager Alongside

The City Of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs

LOS ANGELES, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- WACO (Where Art Can Occur) Theater Center , the celebrated performing and visual arts organization dedicated to empowering communities and nurturing the dreams of artists and youth in Los Angeles, proudly announces its new role as co-operator and co-manager of the newly renovated Vision Theater Performing Arts Center in South Los Angeles' historic Leimert Park Village. This collaboration marks a transformative chapter for the neighborhood and a move for the organization, blending its storied legacy with WACO's mission of championing art, culture, and mentorship.

"Joining forces with the City of Los Angeles through the Vision Theater is more than a partnershipit's the beginning of a bold new chapter for WACO and our impact on Los Angeles and the world," says Shay Wafer, Executive Director of WACO Theater Center. "We believe storytelling has the power to transform lives, and the Vision Theater offers an unparalleled platform to share diverse voices from around the world. This space will be both a home and a national destination, impacting future visitors, youth, and the neighborhood economy. As we step into this shared future, this partnership allows us to elevate local, national, and global talent and intertwine our mission to sustain the rich culture and history embedded in Leimert Park."

Under the artistic direction of visionary Tina Knowles and the proven leadership of Shay Wafer, WACO Theater Center's relocation to the Vision Theater aims to spur impact, complementing the local artistic culture while driving economic growth and fostering community development. As a creative epicenter, the venue will attract an estimated 150,000 visitors annually, driving increased foot traffic for local businesses and fostering unprecedented economic growth in the area.

"I know firsthand that the arts can be a saving grace. The opportunity I had to see a professional dance company perform as a young person from a small town, Galveston, Texas, gave me access to a world beyond my own understanding," says Tina Knowles, Artistic Director and Founder of WACO Theater Center. "Our children deserve to have a place, right here in their neighborhood, where families and especially our children, can go and feel empowered. The Vision Theater is a gift of empowerment for us, the next generation, and togetherwith the help of WACO, the City of LA, and the communitywe will ensure it remains true to that commitment."

Leimert Park has been a long-standing, vibrant hub for Black art and culture in Los Angeles. The Vision Theater has stood at its center for nearly a century, originally serving as a neighborhood movie theater. In 1990, legendary actress and trailblazer Marla Gibbs purchased the theater alongside her daughter Angela Gibbs, renaming it the Vision Theater. Following an economic recession and the aftermath of the 1992 Los Angeles uprising, the City of Los Angeles purchased the theater in 1999 and later transformed it into a performing arts center.

"I want to thank WACO for partnering with the City in this important effort to revitalize the Vision Theater  a historic and iconic community space that has been closed for too long," says Mayor Karen Bass. "With experience in the performing arts, WACO will execute and enhance the vision to highlight the vast creative and artistic visions of artists and youth throughout the City. We will continue to support creative expression."

The Vision Theater underwent multimillion-dollar renovations beginning in 2011, followed by transformative construction phases in 2015. These upgrades included reconfigured seating, an expanded stage, a fly loft, dressing rooms, green rooms, technical offices, and an orchestra pit. Owned by the City of Los Angeles and now co-managed and co-operated with WACO and the Department of Cultural Affairs, the new state-of-the-art Vision Theater Performing Arts Center will serve as a home for cultural enrichment and artistic expression in the heart of the community.

"The Vision Theater is a part of the cultural legacy of South Los Angeles, and I am proud that the City is taking powerful steps forward in realizing its potential," said Councilwoman Heather Hutt, Council District 10. "This partnership between WACO, an organization that is deeply rooted in the community and committed to uplifting Black voices through the arts, and the City will revitalize the theater, but also create a sanctuary for creativity, education, and cultural pride right in the heart of the Tenth District."

Since 2016, WACO has been dedicated to presenting, commissioning, and amplifying artistic works that celebrate and highlight the rich heritage of the African diaspora. Through a combination of performing arts, visual arts, mentorship, and education, WACO has provided a home for artists and youth to share their voices and showcase their creativity to connect and inspire others, supporting over 800 artists and 1,200 young people to build their dreams to date. In 2023 alone, WACO's Angels and Warriors mentorship program supported 88 young people, while its arts programming elevated 157 artists.

For more information about WACO Theater Center, please visit https://wacotheatercenter.com/

About WACO Theater Center

Founded in 2016 by Tina Knowles and Richard Lawson, WACO (Where Art Can Occur) Theater Center is a non-profit organization based in Los Angeles dedicated to empowering artists and audiences alike by providing a platform for stories rooted in the African diaspora. Through performing and visual arts, mentorship, and education, WACO has provided a home for artists and youth to share their voices and showcase their creativity to connect and inspire others. WACO's artistic and education programming is rooted in Black art and culture, incubating new creative ideas, encouraging collaboration, and fostering an environment for community dialogue around diasporic stories.

SOURCE WACO Theater Center
At the 2025 VISION conference, WorkForce Software celebrated multiple global customers and partners for their achievements in redefining the future of workforce management and leveraging workforce management technology.

LIVONIA, Mich., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- WorkForce Software , the #1 rated workforce management solution for large employers, announces the winners of its 2025 Partner and Customer Excellence Awards. These exceptional partners and customers were celebrated at WorkForce Software's VISION 2025 conference at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass in Phoenix, Arizona. WorkForce Software partners were honored in the categories of Innovation Partner of the Year, Global System Integrator of the Year, Regional System Integrator of the Year, and Channel Partner of the Year. WorkForce Software's customer awards highlighted excellence in the areas of Employee Experience, Mastering Complexity, Value Optimization Achievement, Community Building, and Innovation in Workforce Management.

The partners and customers chosen as Excellence Award winners share a commitment to advancing the modernization of workforce management practices and leveraging technology to innovate and evolve despite the growing complexity of the global workplace. These partners and customers demonstrated how adopting innovations in workforce management technology has been used to transform their workplaces, optimize their investments in labor, and improve employee engagement for their organizations.

Partner Excellence Award Winners:

This year's 2025 Partner Excellence Award winners are part of WorkForce Software's growing global network of premier technology partners and system integrators who serve organizations across a range of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, education, public sector, retail, energy, utilities, mining, and more, and are leaders in human capital management.

"We are proud to celebrate the winners of our 2025 Partner Excellence Awards SAP SuccessFactors, EPI-USE, HR Path, and The Hackett Group for their commitment to advancing global workforce management technology and leading businesses through change," says Brett Walker, senior vice president of global channels at WorkForce Software. "These partners have consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of our customers' evolving needs, driving innovation and delivering transformative workforce management solutions that optimize global operations. Their unwavering commitment to excellence helps ensure that customer implementations not only meet but exceed expectations, setting new benchmarks for success. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to these outstanding partners for their pivotal role in shaping the future of workforce management."

Innovation Partner of the Year: EPI-USE earns recognition for the third consecutive year for their outstanding leadership in shaping the future of work. Through pioneering innovative solutions and collaborative strategies, EPI-USE continues to unlock new possibilities and deliver exceptional value to clients by leveraging the full potential of the WorkForce Suite.

Global System Integrator (SI) Partner of the Year: HR Path is honored for their strong commitment to quality, efficiency, and their clients' successes by consistently delivering projects that achieve a quantifiable return on investmentleading to mutually successful long-term client relationships.

Regional System Integrator of the Year: The Hackett Group is recognized for their dedication to excellence in delivering exceptional WorkForce Software implementations across North America. Their team is known for consistently exceeding client expectations by demonstrating return on investment and delivering rapid time to value with consistently high-quality service and implementations.

Channel Partner of the Year: SAP SuccessFactors is honored for their outstanding achievement growing the workforce management customer base through their global strategic alliance. SAP has continued to introduce new WorkForce solutions and expand new business opportunities, introducing WorkForce Software to additional markets and business segments, as well as offering global support for customers leveraging their joint solutions.

Customer Excellence Award Winners:

These awards are given to a select group of WorkForce Software customers that demonstrated how they are leveraging workforce management technology to optimize their investment in labor, increase employee engagement, maintain compliance with changing global workforce regulations, and unlock the value of innovative and powerful workforce management solutions to improve and simplify their daily operations even in the most complex industries.

"These extraordinary organizations are being celebrated for their commitment and investment in their most important asset their employees. The demand for solutions that connect global workforces, make their daily work easier to accomplish, and give employees more autonomy at work has never been greater," said Sandra Moran, chief customer experience and marketing officer at WorkForce Software. "At WorkForce Software, our customers are given powerful solutions that unlock their workforces' potential and make it possible for all employees to contribute to the success of the business. Through the digitization and universal use of workforce management technology at these organizations, their global teams are thriving."

Employee Experience Award: Fletcher Building is recognized for enhancing employee engagement by providing simplified scheduling and timesheet processing to their workforceintuitive technology that their employees have embraced and understand.

Mastering Complexity Award: Dovida (formerly Home Instead Australia) is being celebrated for successfully managing complex workforce environments, multi-country workforces, and intricate and unique operational challenges with innovative workforce management solutions.

Innovation in Workforce Management Award: A global leader in automotive safety systems that supplies critical components to major vehicle manufacturers worldwide was recognized for their strong focus on innovation, compliance, and operational excellence, as they play a pivotal role in shaping safer mobility across the globe.

Community Builder Award: Dole Fresh Vegetables and Castle & Cooke are recognized for their commitment to fostering greater collaboration, advocacy, and knowledge-sharing within the WorkForce Software community through user groups, events, and engagement effortsshowcasing their commitment to growing and redefining workforce management for global employers.

Value Optimization Achievement Award: A global leader in healthcare and life sciences that delivers innovative therapies reaching millions of patients around the world received this award. With a strong commitment to operational excellence and strategic value delivery, they continuously optimize their workforce practices to support better health outcomes at scale.

To learn more about WorkForce Software, its market-leading WorkForce Suite solution, and its wide-reaching partner ecosystem, read more here. To see WorkForce Software's latest industry recognitions and learn about the driving force behind their solution innovation and why they are a value leader, star partner provider, and standout employer, visit this interactive experience.

About WorkForce Software

WorkForce Software, an ADP Company, is the #1 rated workforce management solution for large, global employers and the first to deliver integrated employee communication capabilities. The company's WorkForce Suite adapts to each organization's needsno matter how unique their pay rules, labor regulations, and scheduleswhile delivering a breakthrough employee experience at the time and place work happens. Enterprise-grade and future-ready, WorkForce Software is helping some of the world's most innovative organizations optimize their workforce, protect against compliance risks, and increase employee engagement to unlock new potential for resiliency and optimal performance. When your employees include deskless or hourly workers, unionized, full-time, part-time, or seasonal, WorkForce Software makes managing your global workforce easy, more efficient, and more rewarding for everyone. For more information, please visit www.workforcesoftware.com

Media Contact

Lisa Hajra

WorkForce Software

[email protected]

SOURCE WorkForce Software
~On-Location Trainings, Advisor Incentives, Exclusive Getaways, and Virtual Events Set The Stage for A Remarkable Day Commemorating Industry Partners~

MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In celebration of the passion, dedication and meaningful impact of the travel advisor community, Sandals Resortsthe Caribbean's leading all-inclusive brandproudly partners with the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) as the global sponsor of Global Travel Advisor Day 2025. This year's celebration features a lineup of dynamic events, exclusive programming, and unmissable incentives to honor the true champions of Caribbean travel.

Travel advisors gather at Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines for "Back to the Beach," one of 12 Sandals and Beaches Resorts hosting this five-day immersive event packed with networking opportunities, hands-on training, and unforgettable destination experiencesall set against the lush, vibrant backdrop of the Caribbean. Sandals South Coast in Jamaica, where Global Travel Advisor Day will be marked with a special luncheon featuring local officials and Sandals team members honoring travel advisors for their invaluable contributions to tourism in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean.

"Sandals Resorts celebrates travel advisors every day, but Global Travel Advisor Day provides an opportunity to reflect with even greater gratitude," said Gary C. Sadler, Executive Vice President of Sales and Industry Relations at Unique Vacations, Inc., an affiliate of the worldwide representatives for Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts . "Travel Advisors are the backbone of the travel industry, driving economies and connecting travelers to unforgettable vacation experiences. This is a special occasion, and we're truly committed to making this year even more meaningfulbringing more opportunities, exciting giveaways, and heartfelt recognition to the incredible professionals who make the world of travel so extraordinary."

Sandals Resorts and ASTA Present Exclusive Facebook Live Event

Streaming on ASTA's Facebook page at 2:00 PM EST, a Facebook Live event will feature ASTA President Zane Kerby and Gary C. Sadler who will come together to share industry updates, giveaways and reveal new initiatives designed to drive advisor success, such as the redesigned Travel Advisor Portal, now featuring a refreshed dashboard with tools for revenue tracking, booking management, customizable invoices, and more. Sadler will also dive into the recently launched Sandals Elite Advisor (S.E.A.) Program, a tiered recognition platform designed to reward top-performing advisors with exclusive benefitsincluding productivity bonuses, booking incentives, enhanced resort experiences, and dedicated sales supportand WAVE by Sandals, a new digital marketing platform offering content management, AI-driven customization, and performance tracking to help advisors grow their online presence.

"Sandals Resorts has consistently been one of the most dedicated and impactful allies in our industry, and their ongoing commitment to supporting the travel advisor community is truly invaluable," said Zane Kerby, President and CEO of ASTA. "This year's Global Travel Advisor Day celebration went beyond expressing gratitudeit was about empowerment, progress, and a shared vision for the future we are shaping together."

Five Islands, Twelve Resorts, 450+ Travel Advisors: It's Back to the Beach

From the digital waves to the Caribbean shores, Unique Vacations, Inc. executives and Business Development Managers (BDMs) came together to host the highly anticipated annual 'Back to the Beach' event through May 8th. With over 450 travel advisors in attendance across 12 Sandals and Beaches Resorts, the five-day experience invited advisors to engage in hands-on sessions focused on travel trends, destination weddings, dive programs, and the latest in social media marketing strategiesall while soaking in the beauty and warm hospitality of the islands.

To commemorate Global Travel Advisor Day, each participating resort is hosting a special luncheon where local officials and Sandals team members will pay tribute to the advisors' invaluable contributions to tourism across the region. Advisors staying at resorts in Jamaica, Nassau, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Turks & Caicos are setting sail on celebratory catamaran cruisesblending appreciation with a dose of island adventure.

Recognizing the vital role advisors play beyond bookings, the event also highlights the deep ties between the travel advisor community and the Caribbean. Through the Sandals Foundation, attendees are participating in the Pack for a Purpose program, donating school supplies and clothing to support local families. In Jamaica, advisors are also taking part in Reading Road Tripsvisiting area schools to help students strengthen literacy skills and build confidence in the classroom.

"Travel Advisors play a critical role in helping our guests connect with Caribbean communities, in more ways than one," said Heidi Clarke, Executive Director of the Sandals Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Sandals and Beaches Resorts. "Through various community routes, tours, volunteer opportunities and key experiences, a vacation now becomes an opportunity to improve and invest in the livelihood of the community. We are eternally grateful to the TA community for always sharing the multiple avenues for guests to give back to the islands in which they visit, together we are sharing the best of the Caribbean and positively changing lives."

Trevello Joins the Caribbean Celebrations

Canada's largest host agency, Trevello, is also making waves in Jamaica, hosting its annual conference through May 9th. To commemorate Global Travel Advisor Day, Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts, opened the event with a heartfelt speech recognizing the invaluable contributions of travel advisors. He highlighted the exciting expansions underway at Beaches Resorts, including the new Treasure Beach Village in Turks & Caicos, and new resorts coming to Jamaica, Barbados, and the Exumas.

"Today we celebrate the incredible partners who help bring our Caribbean vision to life," said Stewart. "We're reimagining what all-inclusive luxury can be to bring the soul of the islands to every guest experience. For travel advisors, it means more opportunities to sell up, earn higher commissions, and build lasting client relationships. It means aligning with the strength, trust, and vision of the Sandals brandand becoming part of the most rewarding partnership in travel. It's about innovation and evolution. This is what we call Sandals 2.0."

Amplifying Advisor Voices

On the Sandals Palmcast: Tune in to hear Kristi Upton, owner of AdventurUS Travel, as she shares her expert insights on the role of travel advisors, how they elevate your vacation experience, and why working with an advisor can lead to a smoother, more personalized and enriching getaway.

Listen here: How a Travel Advisor Elevates Your Luxury Vacation

On the Sandals Blog: Four seasoned travel advisors reveal why booking with an expert makes all the difference in crafting unforgettable Caribbean escapestrue matchmakers who tailor every detail to your dream vacation.

Read here: "On Global Travel Advisor Day, This is Why We Need the Matchmakers"

About Sandals Resorts:

Family-owned Sandals Resorts offers adults-only getaways that bring guests closer to the vibrancy, authenticity and spirit of the Caribbean. Pioneers of the all-inclusive vacation experience in the region, Sandals has 17 beachfront resorts in Jamaica, Antigua, Saint Lucia, The Bahamas, Barbados, Grenada, Curacao, and Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, each reflecting the genuine vibe of its island home. From local food favorites and global flavors to butler service and signature suites, including the Caribbean's first Overwater Villas, Sandals makes it easy for guests to go all in on vacation mode. Beyond the resort gates, immersive destination experiences, like a newly piloted Island Inclusive dining program and MINI Coopers for island exploration, raise the bar on the all-inclusive vacation. Championing the region it calls home, Sandals demonstrates the transformative power of tourism and its impact on lives through its philanthropic arm, the Sandals Foundation. For more information, visit www.sandals.com .

About Beaches Resorts:

Family-owned Beaches Resorts is the Caribbean playground where families can live their best island life. With all-inclusive family resorts in Turks & Caicos and Jamaica, and soon-to-come locations in Barbados and The Bahamas, Beaches offers fun-forward family all-inclusive vacations - from a dynamic selection of restaurants and vibrant food trucks to all-you-can-enjoy water sports, live shows and epic water parks. Kids discover magic with Caribbean Adventures with Sesame Street, Kids Camps, and hangouts for teens, while parents enjoy peace of mind with certified nannies, sensory-friendly programming and multi-bedroom villas perfect for bringing generations together. At Beaches, every member of the family finds joy, connection and memories made to last a lifetime. For more information about Beaches Resorts, visit www.beaches.com .

About the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA):

ASTA is the leading global advocate for travel advisors, the travel industry and the traveling public. Its members represent 80 percent of all travel sold in the United States through the travel agency distribution channel. Together with hundreds of internationally based members, ASTA's history of industry advocacy traces back to its founding in 1931 when it launched with the mission to facilitate the business of selling travel through effective representation, shared knowledge and the enhancement of professionalism. For more information about the Society, visit our mission statement .

Media Contact:

[email protected]

SOURCE Sandals Resorts International
BRUSSELS and PRAGUE , May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Health is a right, not a privilege. Zentiva supports the EU vision of leaving no one behind and the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 - Health & Wellbeing, which is strongly linked to other SDGs. As discussions on pharmaceutical legislation reform continue, Zentiva joins the united voice of Europe's off-patent medicines industry to ensure health is at the center of all political decisions. We urge EU Health Ministers to conclude the reform and take steps to secure sustainable healthcare in Europe, protecting the people who depend on affordable medicines every day.

This is not just another technical EU policy. It is about ensuring that every European, wherever they live, can access the medicines they need. It's about avoiding shortages, bringing production back to Europe, and making our health systems more resilient and fair. It is also about making the industry robust for the future, recognising investments in sustainability like reducing carbon emissions and increasing the use of renewable energy at our manufacturing sites.

Zentiva is pleased that the off-patent medicines sector, represented by Medicines for Europe, had the opportunity to exchange views with European Health Commissioner Oliver Varhelyi during a recent meeting. We call on EU decision-makers to translate these discussions into actions that strengthen access, affordability, and European production of essential medicines. It's time for Europe to take responsibility, finalize the pharmaceutical reform, and safeguard patients.

Steffen Saltofte, CEO, Zentiva, stated: "Europe needs legislation that works, that is resilient and fair. We can only achieve this by talking to each other and understanding each other. We welcome the dialogue that is now in place with the European Commission. The off-patent industry is investing in Europe and standing by European patients. But the EU must do its part: provide clear incentives, target support for EU manufacturing, and remove harmful barriers that leave people who depend on our medicines behind. We are committed to working together on sustainable solutions for Europe's healthcare system. The latest Directive on Urban Wastewater Treatment (UWWTD) shows that by acting in isolation and without awareness of consequences, it can jeopardize the availability, accessibility, and affordability of essential medicines."

Zentiva is calling on decision-makers to:

Act as a single market with harmonized principles to ensure faster access to medicines, reduce duplication in regulatory processes, and enable equal treatment for patients across the EU.

Support affordable treatment by boosting competition on Day 1 once patents or regulatory exclusivity expire. Harmonization and clarification of the Bolar exemption are critical to achieving this.

Prevent medicine shortages with better EU coordination and digital tools.

Encourage smarter and affordable innovation on off-patent medicines that can change lives and address major health and environmental issues.

Empower the Critical Medicines Act and broaden the principles to the whole sector, as people rely on access to other molecules beyond those defined as "critical" to sustain their health and wellbeing.

Address and repair the disproportionate environmental legislation of Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive (UWWTD).

With 70% of prescription medicines being generics, 9 out of 10 critical medicines, and 40% of products having no therapeutic alternative other than generic medicines (IQVIA, 2024), it is essential to secure access and production for affordable medicines in Europe. There is no reason to delay reforms that serve Europeans who depend on our medicines every day.

About Zentiva

Zentiva provides health and wellbeing for all generations. We are a European company developing, producing, and delivering high-quality, affordable medicines to more than 100 million people in over 30 countries across Europe and beyond. Zentiva has four wholly owned manufacturing sites and a broad network of external manufacturing partners to ensure supply security. The company is private equity-owned, delivering sustainable growth, with an ambitious plan for the years to come.

We are a team of more than 5,000 unique talents bonded together by our commitment to ensuring the supply of high-quality, affordable medicines to people who depend on them every day. We want Zentiva to be a great place to work, where everyone feels welcomed and appreciated, and can be their true selves, contributing to the best of their ability.

Our roots reach back more than 500 years to a small pharmacy in Prague that still exists today. We act today for a sustainable tomorrow, so that Zentiva will continue to provide health and wellbeing for all generations for at least another 500 years.

www.zentiva.com

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2660891/5259246/Zentiva_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Zentiva
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, May 7 : NSA Ajit Doval spoke with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and briefed him on the actions taken during 'Operation Sindoor' by the Indian Army inside Pakistan against the Pahalgam terror attack.

"Shortly after the strikes, NSA Ajit Doval spoke with US NSA and Secretary of State Marco Rubio and briefed him on the actions taken," said the Indian Embassy in Washington, US.

The Embassy added that India has credible leads, technical inputs, testimony of the survivors and other evidence pointing towards the clear involvement of Pakistan-based terrorists in this attack.

"It was expected that Pakistan would take action against terrorists and the infrastructure that supports them. Instead, during the fortnight that has gone by, Pakistan has indulged in denial and made allegations of false flag operations against India," the Embassy said.

It added that India's actions have been focused and precise, adding that they were measured, responsible and designed to be non-escalatory in nature.

"No Pakistani civilian, economic or military targets have been hit. Only known terror camps were targeted," said the Indian Embassy in Washington, US.

Earlier, the Indian Army said that it has hit nine locations deep inside Pakistan in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack.

"A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," the army in a press release said.

The Indian Army also posted on its official X handle, "Justice is Served. Jai Hind."

"Altogether, nine (9) sites have been targeted. Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and the method of execution," the army said.

It added that these steps come in the wake of the barbaric Pahalgam terrorist attack in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were murdered.

"We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable. There will be a detailed briefing on 'Operation Sindoor', later today," the army said.

Meanwhile, the Pakistani Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, also confirmed the strike on his country.

"The missile strikes were fired by India at Kotli, Bahwalpur and Muzaffarabad in a cowardly attack amid intense tensions between the two countries in the wake of a militant attack in occupied Kashmir," the Pakistan army confirmed.

The tension between the two nuclear nations comes in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 civilians were killed, mostly tourists.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump said the Indian strikes on Pakistan were expected and that it's his "hope it ends very quickly."

"It's a shame," President Trump said at an unrelated White House interaction with news reporters. "We just heard about it as we were walking through the doors of the Oval ... They've been fighting for a long time. ... I just hope it ends very quickly."

Also, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged India and Pakistan to exercise "maximum military restraint," emphasising that the world cannot afford a military confrontation between the two nations.

Guterres expressed concern over Indian military operations across the Line of Control and the international border, calling for de-escalation.
Washington, May 7 : US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated he is monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan "closely."

Earlier, President Donald Trump said that the Indian strikes on Pakistan were expected and that it's his "hope it ends very quickly".

In a post on X, Marco Rubio said, "I am monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely. I echo @POTUS's comments earlier today that this hopefully ends quickly and will continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution."

The Indian embassy in Washington also said in a statement that India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval briefed Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who holds an additional charge as the National Security Adviser, of the strikes.

"It's a shame," President Trump said at an unrelated White House interaction with news reporters. "We just heard about it as we were walking through the doors of the Oval ... They've been fighting for a long time. ... I just hope it ends very quickly."

The Indian embassy said in a statement, "Shortly after the strikes, NSA Shri Ajit Doval spoke with US NSA and Secretary of State Marco Rubio and briefed him on the actions taken."

"India's actions have been focused and precise. They were measured, responsible and designed to be non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani civilian, economic or military targets have been hit. Only known terror camps were targeted," it added.

The embassy said India has credible leads, technical inputs, testimony of the survivors and other evidence pointing towards the clear involvement of Pakistan-based terrorists in this attack and that Pakistan was expected to take action against the perpetrators.

"It was expected that Pakistan would take action against terrorists and the infrastructure that supports them. Instead, during the fortnight that has gone by, Pakistan has indulged in denial and made allegations of false flag operations against India," it added.

President Trump's remarks were the first by an American official after the strikes.

Earlier, Tammy Bruce, the state department spokesperson, told reporters that the situation between India and Pakistan was "a dynamic, serious issue".

She went on to reiterate the US position stated earlier. "It remains an evolving situation. We are clearly still closely involved in monitoring. We continue to urge Pakistan and India to work towards a responsible resolution that maintains long-term peace and regional stability in South Asia.

"We remain in touch with the governments of both countries at multiple levels. We are not watching from afar in that regard. We are engaged and we're aware of various reports that are happening in the midst of this very delicate situation," said Bruce.
United Nations, May 7 : Intensifying drone attacks in the Port Sudan area -- the UN humanitarian aid hub for Sudan -- are increasing threats to aid delivery, a UN spokesman said.

"Our humanitarian colleagues said they're deeply concerned by the intensifying drone attacks on civilian infrastructure in Port Sudan, in the east of the country," said Farhan Haq, the deputy spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. They already forced at least a temporary halt to aid aircraft operations.

Haq said drone attacks on Tuesday reportedly struck the airport area, a fuel storage facility and a power transformer. No UN personnel or facilities were directly affected by the strikes, Xinhua news agency reported.

Xinhua reported from Khartoum that although no group has officially claimed responsibility for the drone attacks, the Sudanese military has blamed the rebel paramilitary Rapid Support Forces for the drone attacks, which started on Sunday.

Haq said the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that the latest violence poses a growing risk to the safety of humanitarian staff and operations, with flights of the UN Humanitarian Air Service both to and from Port Sudan on hold.

The spokesman said there were prolonged power outages due to drone attacks targeting power stations and facilities elsewhere in Sudan. He said they continue to disrupt civilian life.

"This is the case in Northern State, where a one-month power blackout prevented farmers from running electrical water pumps, leading to the destruction of more than 84 square kilometres of crops," Haq said. "In River Nile State, the targeted destruction of power infrastructure has led to severe water supply shortages."

Haq said that despite the violence, the United Nations continues to assist the most vulnerable people. In East Darfur, humanitarian organisations mobilised aid for 35,000 people in the town of Ed Daein who had fled from Khartoum and Al Jazirah states.

There's another threat to the displaced in Sudan.

"We are scaling up water, sanitation and hygiene efforts and public health outreach to curb the spread of hepatitis E," detected in Kassala State, the spokesman said.

In neighbouring Chad, the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) is gravely concerned by the rapidly increasing number of Sudanese refugees crossing into eastern Chad. Nearly 20,000 people - primarily women and children - have arrived there in the past two weeks alone.

"This sudden influx reflects the escalating violence in Sudan's North Darfur region, particularly in and around El Fasher, which is triggering mass displacement," UNHCR said. "Refugees arriving in Chad report that over 10,000 people are still on the way, trying to reach the border to escape the violence."

A rapid protection assessment by UNHCR and its partners indicated that 76 per cent of the newly arrived refugees were subjected to serious protection incidents, including extortion, theft and sexual violence.

The agency said that Chad already hosts 1.3 million refugees, including 794,000 arrivals from Sudan since the conflict began more than two years ago. While the country continues to show remarkable solidarity in hosting refugees, it cannot bear this burden alone.

UNHCR urges the international community to step up support for the response urgently. Only 20 per cent of the $409 million required to respond to the refugee crisis in Chad has been funded.
Khartoum, May 7 : Sudan's Civil Aviation Authority announced the resumption of flights to and from Port Sudan International Airport following hours of suspension caused by drone strikes.

In a statement on Tuesday night, the authority called on citizens to contact airline booking offices "to reschedule their flights" after attacks forced the cancellation of all air traffic earlier Tuesday.

The drone attacks on Tuesday struck strategic sites in Port Sudan, a port city on the Red Sea in eastern Sudan, including the international airport, a hotel near the temporary presidential palace, and an oil export port, according to eyewitnesses.

Although no group has officially claimed responsibility, the military has blamed the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for the drone attacks starting on Sunday, Xinhua news agency reported.

According to the Sudanese Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, the RSF has launched drone attacks targeting a military airbase, a fuel depot, and civilian facilities over the past two days.

Sudan has been embroiled in a devastating conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF since mid-April 2023, which has claimed tens of thousands of lives, with the exact toll unknown.

The International Organization for Migration estimates that over 15 million people have been displaced in the conflict, both within Sudan and abroad.
Mumbai, May 7 : As Indian armed forces on Wednesday successfully targeted nine terrorists' sites in Pakistan, Indian film personalities such as Chiranjeevi Konidela, Nimrat Kaur and Riteish Deshmukh among many others hailed the Indian Army and Operation Sindoor.

Mumbai, May 7 (IANS) As Indian armed forces on Wednesday successfully targeted nine terrorists' sites in Pakistan, Indian film personalities such as Chiranjeevi Konidela, Nimrat Kaur and Riteish Deshmukh among many others hailed the Indian Army and Operation Sindoor.

Actress Nimrat Kaur, who comes from an army background took to X, formerly called Twitter, and wrote: "United with our forces. One country. One mission. #JaiHind #OperationSindoor"

Actor Riteish Deshmukh hailed the Indian Army and wrote: "Jai Hind Ki Sena  Bharat mata ki jai."

Veteran actor Anupam Kher wrote: "Bharat mata ki jai #OperationSindoor."

Acclaimed actor Paresh Rawal shared folded hand emojis and used the hashtags #operation_sindoor #IndianArmedForces along with tagging Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

South superstar Chiranjeevi Konidela simply wrote: "Jai Hind."

National Award-winning filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar said: "Our prayers are with our forces. One nation, together we stand. Jai Hind, Vande Mataram."

"#jaihindkisena Together we stand," wrote actress Mimi Chakraborty.

Actress Hina Khan hailed Operation Sindoor and wrote: "Operation SINDOOR Jai Hind."

Indian Air Force targeted the terrorists' sites without crossing the Pakistan airspace on Wednesday. The Pakistan armed forces were taken by complete surprise when the Indian strikes started around 1.44 a.m.

In order not to escalate tensions further, a defence ministry statement said that no army installation of Pakistan was targeted during Wednesday's strikes.

The terrorists' sites targeted by Indian strikes include Muridke near Lahore, Bahawalpur, Kotli and Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The terrorist infrastructure was targeted from where the attacks against India have been planned and directed. The Press Information Bureau (PIB) posted a press release at 1.44 a.m. saying nine sites have been targeted altogether during 'Operation Sindoor' by the Indian Armed Forces.

The 'Operation Sindoor', came 14 days after the terrorist attack in the tourist resort of Baisaran in Pahalgam, in which suspects are believed to have links with Pakistan.

Muridke and Bhawalpur have Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) headquarters, and its chief commander, Masood Azhar, used to hide there along with top commanders of the outfit.

Reports said multiple loud explosions were heard in Muzaffarabad City in PoJK where a number of terrorist organisations have set up their training camps and launch pads.

Muzaffarabad's power was blacked out after the explosions. Besides Muzaffarabad, Kotli also has terror infrastructure, including training camps and launch pads.
United Nations, May 7 : Pakistan has served notice that it was preparing to further attack India, telling the Security Council that it reserves the right to hit back after New Delhi launched a barrage of missiles against it, according to its UN mission.

On Wednesday, India retaliated against Pakistan for the terrorist attack last month that killed 26 people at Pahalgam in Kashmir.

The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba, had owned responsibility for the attack.

The Council was "informed that Pakistan reserves the right to respond appropriately to this aggression at a time and place of its choosing" in accordance with the UN Charter, the Pakistan mission said in a statement on Tuesday night.

It added that it informed Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Council President Evangelos Sekeris, and General Assembly President Philomen Yang about what it called "the blatant aggression by India".

The Pakistani mission's statement did not say if it was calling for a meeting of the Council.

The Council met on Friday at its request for a closed consultation on the tension between the two countries.

It received a briefing from Assistant Secretary-General Khaled Mohamed Khiari, who later told reporters the situation was "volatile".

India's Defence Ministry said that it launched "Operation Sindoor" with "focused strikes" on nine "terrorist infrastructure strikes" in Pakistan and the Kashmir territory it occupies.

After India launched the missile attack, Guterres said through his spokesperson, "World cannot afford military confrontation between India and Pakistan".

The Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said, "He calls for maximum military restraint from both countries".

On Monday, Guterres reiterated his strong condemnation of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam and said, "Targeting civilians is unacceptable  and those responsible must be brought to justice through transparent, credible, and lawful means".

Indian Army reported shelling by Pakistan into Indian territory on Wednesday, and Pakistan claimed to have shot down five Indian jets, although India did not use aircraft in the attacks, which were carried out with missiles.
Jaipur, May 7 : A high alert has been sounded in all border areas of Rajasthan after India's airstrikes on Pakistan-based terror bases. Also, Bikaner and Jodhpur airports have been closed.

At the same time, a holiday has been declared in schools today in border cities, including Bikaner, Barmer and Jaisalmer, on the orders of the District Collector. In Bikaner, government employees' leaves have been cancelled, and they have been ordered not to leave the headquarters.

India has carried out airstrikes at nine places in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Bahawalpur, Pakistan, was attacked, where hideouts of the terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed are located.

Bahawalpur is about 100 km from the Rajasthan-Pakistan border.

Meanwhile Air India in its tweet said, "In view of the prevailing situation, Air India has cancelled all its flights to and from the following stations a" Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh and Rajkot a" till 12 noon on 7 May, pending further updates from authorities. Two international flights en route to Amritsar are being diverted to Delhi. We regret the inconvenience caused due to this unforeseen disruption."

Around 2 a.m., the sounds of fighter jets were heard in many areas of Jaisalmer-Barmer.

Eyewitnesses said that at first it seemed that India was doing some exercise, but later it came to light that India had carried out an airstrike.

Meanwhile, officials said that four flights, which were going to the states near the Pakistan border, have been cancelled at Jaipur airport. Flight operations from Bikaner airport have also been stopped.

Bikaner District Collector Namrata Vrishni has cancelled the leaves of all the officers and employees of the district. All employees will have to attend their workplace as usual. A mock drill is to be held in Bikaner on Wednesday.

Officials said that leave of any officer or employee will not be accepted till further orders.

Government and private schools in the border district of Bikaner have also been closed on Wednesday. Final exams are going on in the school these days, which have been postponed.

District Education Officer Ramgopal Sharma has given these orders on the orders of the District Collector. Meanwhile, people in the border areas of Rajasthan rejoiced and were seen celebrating the demolition of terrorist hideouts. People in Barmer said that India has taken revenge by conducting airstrikes.
Kochi, May 7 : Aarti, a mother of twins who saw her 68-year-old father Ramachandran being gunned down by a terrorist in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22, expressed happiness over Operation Sindoor.

"Even though our loss can never be compensated, we are happy about what has happened when India hit back at Pakistan," said Aarti after hearing the news.

"India has hit back at the correct time, and it was the moment we all waited. It's good that the common man has not been affected in this attack," added Aarti.

A former non-resident Indian who returned from the Middle East five years ago, Ramachandran was a staunch BJP supporter.

He had unsuccessfully contested local body polls and was among those shortlisted as a potential BJP candidate for civic elections to be held later this year.

Aarti, a mother of twin boys, was seen often breaking down last month while recounting the horrifying moment when her father was shot dead by a terrorist, and also watched by her kids.

She, along with her parents, was holidaying in Pahalgam, Kashmir, when Ramachandran was gunned down by terrorists.

Aarti had said then that the terrorist had put something on her head, following which her sons cried out aloud. According to her, maybe hearing the cries of my boys, the terrorist walked away without harming them.

Ramachandran's funeral was attended by two Governors, state ministers, actors and hundreds of people.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan and several leading political personalities visited Aarti and pledged their moral support to the family.

In a military operation following the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 civilian lives, India launched 'Operation Sindoor', striking nine high-value terror targets deep inside Pakistani territory.

The operation, executed with surgical precision, was closely monitored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior security officials through the night.

The Indian Army confirmed that the strikes were meticulously planned and executed, ensuring that no civilian or military infrastructure in Pakistan was affected.

The operation targeted infrastructure linked to terror groups responsible for the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen in Jammu and Kashmir.
Mumbai, May 7 : In a game that swung wildly before slipping from Mumbai Indians' grasp, captain Hardik Pandya minced no words in identifying the root cause of their three-wicket defeat against Gujarat Titans: no-balls.

On a chaotic, rain-interrupted night at the Wankhede, where fortunes see-sawed until the final delivery, Pandya's candid admission summed up MI's agony. "The catches didn't really cost us. We were very clinical with that," Hardik said after MI's three-wicket defeat. "Maybe definitely with the no-balls, with my no-ball and even the last [over] no-ball.

"In my eyes, it's a crime," he said of the no-ballstwo bowled by him and a crucial one by Deepak Chahar in the final overthat proved costly in a match decided on razor-thin margins.

Defending 15 runs in the last over of re-adjusted target of 147, Mumbai's hopes were dented when Deepak Chahar overstepped at a critical moment. Earlier, Pandya's own no-balls in the eighth over had already cost 18 runs. "That definitely bit us," he said. "But I'm proud of the fight we showed."

Put into bat, MI managed just 155/8 despite a steady half-century from Will Jacks. From 97/2, they lost 6 wickets for just 58 runs in the final 9.3 overs. Yet, the bowlers, especially in slippery, wet conditions, dragged MI back into the contest, making GT work for every run. "It wasn't a 150 pitch. We were 20-30 runs short. But credit to the bowlers. They kept hitting the right areas," Pandya added.

Gujarat captain Shubman Gill described the opening exchanges of the chase as "feeling like a Test match," with rain and wind assisting movement. After a cautious startjust 29 in the powerplayGill (43) and Jos Buttler stitched a 72-run stand. However, a flurry of wickets (4 for 13 in 15 balls) left GT behind the DLS par score when rain halted play around midnight.

"A lot of emotions, most of them frustrating," Gill admitted. "But the universe gave us one more chance, and everything worked out." The young skipper reserved special praise for Rashid Khan, who returned with 1/21, days after being thrashed for 50 by Sunrisers Hyderabad. "Coming back from injury, the way he bowled today was a great sign."

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
New Delhi, May 7 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday hailed the Indian armed forces for carrying out 'Operation Sindoor', saying it is India's response to the brutal Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians on April 22.

He also reaffirmed India's commitment to eliminating terrorism from its roots.

In a military operation following the Pahalgam terror attack, India launched 'Operation Sindoor', striking nine high-value terror targets deep inside Pakistani territory.

Taking to X, HM Shah posted, "Proud of our armed forces. Operation Sindoor is Bharat's response to the brutal killing of our innocent brothers in Pahalgam."

"The Modi government is resolved to give a befitting response to any attack on India and its people. Bharat remains firmly committed to eradicating terrorism from its roots," he added.

The operation targeted infrastructure linked to terror groups responsible for the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen in Jammu and Kashmir.

Sources said the Prime Minister remained in constant communication with top military commanders and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval during the operation.

According to official statements, the nine targets included camps and logistical bases associated with terror groups operating from within Pakistan and PoK.

The Indian Army's spokesperson emphasised the precise nature of the strikes, stating, "Our actions have been focused and precise. We have only targeted terrorist camps from where attacks against India have been planned and executed."

The Army further clarified that the operation was non-escalatory in intent and execution, aiming strictly at dismantling terror infrastructure while sparing civilian, military, and economic structures in Pakistan.

"Justice is served. Jai Hind," the spokesperson added.

Indian intelligence agencies had earlier traced the Pahalgam attack to Pakistan-based groups, with The Resistance Front -- a Lashkar-e-Taiba proxy -- claiming responsibility.

In response, India had vowed a decisive countermeasure, combining diplomatic pressure with military preparedness.

Operation Sindoor marks one of the most significant cross-border actions taken by India since the Balakot airstrikes in 2019.
New Delhi, May 7 : The Uttar Pradesh Police have declared a Red Alert in the state following Operation Sindoor, and security of vital installations was being enhanced.

The state Director General of Police (DGP) posted on its X handle that a red alert has been sounded and all police units have been instructed to coordinate with the defence forces.

"Red Alert has been declared in Uttar Pradesh following #OperationSindoor  the Indian Army's targeted strike on terror hideouts. All @Uppolice field formations have been instructed to coordinate with Defence units and strengthen the security of vital installations," said the post.

It further said that the UP Police "remains alert, equipped, and fully prepared to ensure the safety of every citizen. Jay Hind !"

Following the order, security was being enhanced in all vital locations as well as in general security.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath lauded the armed forces for carrying out strikes against terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Taking to X, CM Yogi posted, "Jai Hind, Jai Hind ki Sena!"

In a military operation following the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 civilian lives, India launched 'Operation Sindoor', striking nine high-value terror targets deep inside Pakistani territory.

The operation, executed with surgical precision, was closely monitored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior security officials through the night.

The Indian Army confirmed that the strikes were meticulously planned and executed, ensuring that no civilian or military infrastructure in Pakistan was affected. The operation targeted infrastructure linked to terror groups responsible for the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen in Jammu and Kashmir.

Sources said the Prime Minister remained in constant communication with top military commanders and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval during the operation.

According to official statements, the nine targets included camps and logistical bases associated with terror groups operating from within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The Indian Army's spokesperson emphasised the precise nature of the strikes, stating, "Our actions have been focused and precise. We have only targeted terrorist camps from where attacks against India have been planned and executed."
Seoul, May 7 : South Korea has asked the United States to make "special consideration" of its chip exports as the Donald Trump administration is moving to impose tariffs on imported semiconductors, Seoul's industry ministry said on Wednesday.

The South Korean government submitted a written opinion to the U.S. administration regarding Washington's national security investigation into semiconductor imports under the U.S. Trade Expansion Act, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, reports Yonhap news agency.

The Trump administration has been looking to impose new tariffs on semiconductors and pharmaceuticals, with investigations into such imports currently under way.

In its submitted opinion, the Seoul government called for "special consideration" of Korean semiconductor exports to the U.S., saying that semiconductors and manufacturing equipment made in Korea have "very limited" impact on the U.S. security and supply chains.

The written statement also said Washington's potential tariffs on chip imports may have a "negative" influence on Korean companies' investment plans in the U.S., including those for artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure.

Seoul also highlighted that the trade balance between the countries in the semiconductor sector is nearly equal, according to the ministry.

"The government will continue close consultations with the U.S. at all levels to minimize any negative impact on Korean companies," the ministry said.

"We will also maintain close communication with industry stakeholders and develop strategic response measures, while continuing joint outreach efforts of the public and private sectors in the U.S."

Meanwhile, Acting President Lee Ju-ho said the government will communicate closely with the Czech Republic to swiftly finalise a nuclear power plant deal temporarily scuttled by a court injunction this week.

Lee made the remark during an economic security strategy meeting, a day after a Czech court blocked the country's main electricity firm, CEZ, from signing the estimated 26 trillion-won (US$18.6 billion) contract with a South Korean consortium led by Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Co. until it reviews a legal complaint filed by France's EDF, a losing bidder in the tender.

"Our government will communicate closely with the Czech side to reach a final contract at an early date," he said during the meeting at the government complex in Seoul.

"The Czech government's position is that there are no problems as the evaluation process for the tender was conducted transparently and in accordance with the law," he added.

Industry Ministry Ahn Duk-geun was in Prague as the court decision came while he was en route to attend a signing ceremony for the deal.

The acting president also underscored the gravity of the trade environment in the wake of the United States' imposition of new tariffs on imported goods.

The two countries will continue tariff consultations when U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer makes his planned visit to South Korea next week for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation trade ministers' meeting, he said.

a"IANS

na/
Chandigarh, May 7 : One civilian was killed and nine others injured on early Wednesday as an unidentified aircraft crashed and caught fire in Aklian Kalan village, some 20 km from the district headquarters in Punjab's Bathinda.

District authorities refused to comment about the crash, saying any comment will be issued by the defence authorities. Defence personnel and police teams have cordoned off the crash site.

The dead has been identified as a farm labourer, Govind from Haryana. The crash occurred around 2 a.m. in wheat-harvested fields, close to the residential area.

Eyewitnesses said several farm labourers noticed an aircraft flying low that later crashed and fell into the fields.

As the local approached the wreckage, an explosion took place that killed one on the spot and injured nine others.

"On spotting the burning aircraft, some people rushed to rescue the pilot. As they were rushing towards the plane, it exploded and several of them sustained injuries," an eyewitness told the media.

The injured were admitted to Shaheed Bhai Mani Singh Civil Hospital. One among them was referred to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bathinda.

Senior district officials reached the crash site and the hospital. Police teams have been deployed at the district hospital.

Meanwhile, after India's military action against terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), which is codenamed 'Operation Sindoor', two international flights en route to Amritsar were diverted to Delhi, and educational institutions along the Pakistan border shut in Punjab.

Air India, in a statement, said it has cancelled all its flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh and Rajkot till noon.

Authorities in Punjab have announced that all schools, colleges and educational institutions in regions along the international border with Pakistan have been closed.

While educational institutes in Gurdaspur and Pathankot districts will be closed for three days, in Fazilka district, they will be shut till further orders.

Earlier this morning, in a major military action following the brutal Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians, the Indian Army successfully executed 'Operation Sindoor', hitting nine high-value terror targets deep inside Pakistan.

The operation was carried out with precision, targeting terrorist infrastructure associated with groups responsible for the attack.

The strikes were part of India's response to the April 22 terror attack that claimed the lives of 25 Indians and one Nepali national in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Indian Army's spokesperson confirmed that the strikes were focused, measured, and non-escalatory. The targets, identified as known terror camps and infrastructure, were located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Mumbai, May 7 : Family members of the Maharashtrians killed in the Pahalgam terror attack on Wednesday welcomed 'Operation Sindoor', saying the government and the Indian armed forces have taught a lesson to the terrorists.

Pune-based Kaustubh Ganbote and Santosh Jagdale were killed in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

Family members of the victims hailed 'Operation Sindoor'.

Kaustubh Ganbote's son, Kunal Ganbote, said, "We all were waiting for such action to be taken."

"I think that the operation was named 'Sindoor' as a mark of respect for the women who lost their husbands in the dastardly attack," Kunal said.

Santosh Jagdale's family members said it is a perfect tribute to the departed souls.

Jagdale's wife, Pragati, said, "I am grateful to the government for naming today's air strikes 'Operation Sindoor'. Prime Minister Narendra Modi understands our feelings. The terrorists shot and killed my husband. Today, Prime Minister Modi has attacked the base of those terrorists with 'Operation Sindoor', which is very appropriate. It was necessary to teach them this lesson."

"We are PM Modi's daughters, and I knew he would take action. I was sure it would take some time, but they would attack," Pragati said.

Jagdale's daughter, Asawari Jagdale, said, "Today, I feel like my father has received a true tribute from the government. The 'mission' was completed in 15 days. I thank the government."

In a military operation following the Pahalgam terror attack, India launched 'Operation Sindoor', striking terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Ministry of Defence in its statement said, "Our action has been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution."
Seoul, May 7 : The Korea Biotechnology Industry Organization (KBIO) on Wednesday said it has requested the US to exempt South Korea from the Donald Trump administration's plan to impose tariffs on pharmaceutical imports.

KBIO said it submitted such an opinion formally to the US Department of Commerce on Tuesday (US time) regarding an ongoing investigation under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, which is examining the national security implications of pharmaceutical imports, Yonhap news agency reported.

Washington launched the probe on April 1 and has sought public input from stakeholders. US President Trump has said he will announce tariff measures on pharmaceuticals in the coming weeks.

The organisation emphasised that South Korea is a reliable partner in the US pharmaceutical supply chain and plays a key role in making high-cost prescription drugs more affordable.

Citing recommendations by the US National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology last month, the South Korean bio trade group noted that the commission had stressed the importance of collaborating with allied countries to stabilise the pharmaceutical supply chain.

KBIO stressed that South Korea is already contributing to the US drug ecosystem through new drug development and contract manufacturing.

"Pharmaceutical products are essential for national security and patient protection, and global supply chains are highly interdependent," the association said. "If trade measures are deemed necessary, we ask that South Korea, a key US ally and trusted source, be exempted from such actions."

Meanwhile, South Korea has also asked the US to make "special consideration" of its chip exports as the Trump administration is moving to impose tariffs on imported semiconductors, Seoul's industry ministry said Wednesday.

The South Korean government submitted a written opinion to the US administration regarding Washington's national security investigation into semiconductor imports under the US Trade Expansion Act, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, Yonhap reported.
Srinagar, May 7 : Seven civilians were killed and 38 others injured on Wednesday in indiscriminate mortar shelling by the Pakistan Army on the Line of Control (LoC) as Lt Governor Manoj Sinha ordered the evacuation of the civilian population from vulnerable areas to safer locations.

The L-G said on X, "Took stock of the situation in border districts of J&K UT with all the senior administrative, police & district officials including DCs of all the border districts. I'm closely monitoring the situation & govt is fully prepared to deal with any eventuality. I've also directed the DCs for shifting of villagers from vulnerable areas to safer locations and ensuring boarding, lodging, food, medicare and transportation. We will ensure safety of every citizen."

Seven people, including a woman and two children, were killed and 38 others injured Wednesday as the Pakistan Army pounded dozens of forward villages with artillery and mortar shelling along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir, officials said.

The Indian Army is responding to the shelling in equal measure, they said on the ceasefire violations by Pakistani forces after India carried out missile strikes against nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

All seven deaths were reported in the worst-hit Poonch district, with another 25 persons injured, the officials said.

Ten persons were injured in the Uri sector of Baramulla district, and three others were injured in Rajouri district.

After 'Operation Sindoor' strikes on terrorists' infrastructure at nine locations in Muridke, Bahawalpur, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Pakistan shelling started in Uri, Kupwara sectors in the Valley and Poonch and Rajouri in Jammu division.

The Ministry of Defence statement said that the Indian troops are effectively responding to Pakistan's ceasefire violation. Missile strikes on terror infrastructure started around 1.44 a.m. today, and nine such locations were simultaneously struck.

The Defence Ministry statement said no military target was attacked during the strikes, which were carried out without entering Pakistani airspace.

All civilian flights from Srinagar airport have been suspended for the day. Schools, colleges and other educational institutions have been closed in three districts of the Valley and five districts of the Jammu division.
Chennai, May 7 : Justice J. Sathya Narayana Prasad, a Madras High Court sitting judge, passed away in Chennai late Tuesday evening. He was 56.

Ranked 42nd in seniority among the 63 sitting judges of the High Court, his sudden demise has shocked the legal fraternity.

According to sources, Justice Prasad experienced discomfort at his official residence in Chennai on Tuesday evening.

Despite being rushed to a private hospital in the city for immediate medical attention, he could not be saved.

Born on March 15, 1969, in Thanjavur, Justice Prasad hailed from Minnal village near Arakkonam in the erstwhile North Arcot district, now part of Vellore district.

He was the son of R. Jaiprasad, a retired district and sessions judge, who had served in various judicial capacities across Tamil Nadu.

Justice Prasad completed his schooling at Voorhees Higher Secondary School in Vellore before moving to Chennai for higher education. He earned a bacheloras degree in history from Loyola College, Chennai, followed by a Masteras degree in history and a law degree from the University of Delhi.

Enrolling as an advocate in 1997, Justice Prasad began his legal career under senior advocate A. Ilango, with whom he worked until 2000. He later established an independent practice, during which he served as standing counsel for several prominent institutions, including the Chennai Port Trust, Coimbatore Municipal Corporation, and the Food Corporation of India.

His practice encompassed a wide range of legal matters, earning him respect and recognition among peers.

In 2021, he was elevated to the bench of the Madras High Court, where he handled cases across diverse legal domains.

Known for his meticulous approach to law and fairness in judgment, Justice Prasad had carved a niche for himself in the judiciary.

Condolences have poured in from colleagues, members of the Bar, and legal luminaries across the state.

His funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family soon. Justice Prasad is survived by his wife and two children.
Mumbai, May 7 : Acclaimed filmmaker Shekhar Kapur has praised India's measured and confident response to the Pahalgam terrorist attack, commending its precision and restraint from war rhetoric. He stated that Operation Sindoor was a targeted strike against the territories and organizations that supported the perpetrators responsible for the killing of innocent civilians.

Taking to X, formerly called Twitter, Shekhar hailed Operation Sindoor and wrote: "India's response to Pahalgam terrorists attacks is befitting a Nation that is showing the world how responsible and confident it is in itself."

"Without the rhetoric of War #operation_sindoor is a precise hit at territories and organisation that backed the horrendous terrorist that killed innocent civilians. #BharatMataKiJai #PahalgamTerroristAttack #operation_sindoor @narendramodi," she wrote.

The 'Operation Sindoor', came 14 days after the terrorist attack in the tourist resort of Baisaran in Pahalgam, in which suspects are believed to have links with Pakistan.

On April 22, almost 26 people, mostly tourists, were gunned in a terror attack in Pahalgam. The attack in the Valley has been tagged as the deadlies since the 2019 Pulwama strike.

On Wednesday, the Indian Air Force targeted the terrorists' sites without crossing the Pakistan airspace. The Pakistan armed forces were taken by complete surprise when the Indian strikes started around 1.44 a.m.

The terrorists' sites targeted by Indian strikes during Operation Sindoor include Muridke near Lahore, Bahawalpur, Kotli and Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The Press Information Bureau (PIB) posted a press release at 1.44 a.m. saying nine sites have been targeted altogether during 'Operation Sindoor' by the Indian Armed Forces.

Muridke and Bhawalpur have Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) headquarters, and its chief commander, Masood Azhar, used to hide there along with top commanders of the outfit.

Reports said multiple loud explosions were heard in Muzaffarabad City in PoJK where a number of terrorist organisations have set up their training camps and launch pads. Muzaffarabad's power was blacked out after the explosions. Besides Muzaffarabad, Kotli also has terror infrastructure, including training camps and launch pads.
Mumbai, May 7 : Television actress Rupali Ganguly took to social media to express her admiration and respect for the brave heroes of Operation Sindoor.

The operation, which has been hailed as a major success in India's ongoing fight against terrorism, saw Indian forces strategically eliminate terror hubs with remarkable precision and courage. In her heartfelt post, Ganguly wrote, Cheers to the heroes of #OperationSindoor With courage and precision, our forces crushed terror hubs. India stands tall. Jai Hind!"

The success of Operation Sindoor, a strategic and precise military operation aimed at dismantling terror hubs, has not only been celebrated by the nation but has also garnered widespread support from the Indian film fraternity and television industry. Celebrities took to social media to express their admiration for the bravery and courage displayed by the Indian armed forces. Actors like Ajay Devgn, Chiranjeevi Konidela, Nimrat Kaur, Riteish Deshmukh, Akshay Kumar, Sonu Sood, Anupam Kher, and Vidya Balan, among others, shared messages of gratitude and honored the courage of the forces.

On May 7, the Indian Air Force launched precise strikes on terrorist sites in Pakistan, carefully avoiding any violation of Pakistan's airspace. The operation took Pakistan's armed forces by complete surprise as the strikes began around 1:44 a.m. In an effort to prevent escalating tensions, a statement from the Ministry of Defence clarified that no Pakistani military installations were targeted during the operation.

The sites hit by the Indian Air Force included key terrorist hubs such as Muridke near Lahore, Bahawalpur, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). These locations were believed to be central to planning and executing attacks against India.

According to the Press Information Bureau (PIB), a total of nine sites were targeted during Operation Sindoor, which began at 1:44 a.m. The operation occurred 14 days after a deadly terrorist attack in the tourist resort of Baisaran in Pahalgam, with suspects believed to have links to Pakistan.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Lucknow, May 7 : In a major counter-terrorism offensive, India on Wednesday destroyed 'Markaz Subhan Allah', the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror headquarters and training facility in Bahawalpur, Pakistan.

Lucknow, May 7 (IANS) In a major counter-terrorism offensive, India on Wednesday destroyed aMarkaz Subhan Allaha, the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror headquarters and training facility in Bahawalpur, Pakistan.

Once a key base for terrorist operations, the site has been reduced to rubble, signalling a strong response to ongoing cross-border threats.

Videos show the extent of damage caused to the terrorist base. The morning visuals show the building reduced to rubble with gaping holes in the roof and concrete lying all around.

Although bodies could not be seen in the available video but fallen slabs could be seen.

The video also shows a few men scurrying around the fallen building. The video was shot in the dayas light after the airstrikes by the Indian Air Force and exhibits the precision power of the force.

Bahawalpur is deep inside Pakistan and is the 12th largest city, and serves as the nerve centre of Jaish-e-Mohammed.

The JeM has been responsible for multiple attacks on Indian soil over the past two decades.

Located around 161 km from the India-Pakistan border, Bahawalpur houses the groupas operational headquarters at the Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah, also known as the Usman-o-Ali campus.

India successfully destroyed terrorists' hideouts here and exposed the total failure of the Pakistan air defence.

India on Wednesday conducted precision strikes targeting nine key terror infrastructure sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Code-named Operation Sindoor, it was jointly executed by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, utilising special precision munitions.

In a military operation following the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 civilian lives, India launched 'Operation Sindoor', striking nine high-value terror targets deep inside Pakistani territory.

The operation, executed with surgical precision, was closely monitored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior security officials through the night.

The Indian Army also confirmed that the strikes were meticulously planned and executed, ensuring that no civilian or military infrastructure in Pakistan was affected.

The operation targeted infrastructure linked to terror groups responsible for the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen in Jammu and Kashmir.

Sources said the Prime Minister remained in constant communication with top military commanders and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval during the operation.

According to official statements, the nine targets included camps and logistical bases associated with terror groups operating from within Pakistan and PoK.
Chennai, May 7 : Tamil Superstar Rajinikanth joined scores of Indians across the globe in hailing the Indian Armed Forces' historic strike on terror camps in Pakistan, codenamed 'Operation Sindoor', saying that the fighter's fight had begun and that there was "No stopping until the mission is accomplished."

Taking to his X timeline, Rajinikanth wrote, "The fighter's fight begins... No stopping until the mission is accomplished! The entire NATION is with you. @PMOIndia @HMOIndia #OperationSindoor JAI HIND YY."

Rajinikanth was joined by several other film celebrities cutting across all regions of the country.

Mega Star Chiranjeevi too hailed the operation by retweeting the poster put out by the Indian Army for Operation Sindoor and writing "Jai Hind".

Telugu star Jr NTR took to his X timeline to say," Praying for the safety & strength of our Indian Army in #OperationSindoor.Jai Hind! YY"

Malayalam actress Samyuktha too was among the celebrities who hailed the strike, saying, "Together we stand. Wishing the forces success and safety. Bharat Mata Ki Jai YY."

Actress Lavanya Tripathi, who along with her husband Varun Tej, on Wednesday announced that were going to be parents soon, also supported the strike by the Indian Army, posting the Operation Sindoor poster on her X time with a saluting face smiley next to it.

For the unaware, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, hitting at terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed.

The Indian army's strong response comes in the wake of the terrible and dastardly attack by Pakistan-backed terrorists on tourists in Pahalgam in Kashmir which left 25 Indians and one Nepali national dead.

Stating that nine sites that were being used by terrorists had been targeted, the Indian Army said that its actions had been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature.

It also pointed out that no Pakistani military facilities had been targeted and that India had demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution.
Chennai, May 7 : Saluting the Indian Army who he called the real heroes soon after news broke out about the Indian Armed Forces' strategic strike on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, Malayalam Superstar Mammootty on Wednesday said that 'Operation Sindoor' had proved again that when the nation calls, the Indian Army answers!

Taking to his X timeline to thank the armed forces for saving lives and restoring hope, the Malayalam superstar wrote, "Salute to our Real heroes ! #OperationSindoor proved again , When the nation calls, The #IndianArmy answers. Thank you for saving lives and restoring hope. You Make The Nation Proud. Jai Hind !"

Several other film stars from the Tamil, Telugu,Malayalam and Kannada film industries too hailed the Indian Armed Forces' historic strike on terror camps.

Telugu star Allu Arjun took to his X timeline to express his views on the strike. He wrote, "May justice be served. Jai Hind YY #OperationSindoor".

Actor Prakash Raj on his X timeline said, "Saluting our Indian Armed Forces... India will never tolerate terrorism...#JaiHind"

Telugu actor Nandamuri Kalyanram said, "More strength and power to our Defence forces. #OperationSindoor, answer to the cowardly #PahalgamTerrorAttacks. Respect. Resolve. Remembrance. Jai Hind YY"

Tamil actor and National Award winning music director G V Prakash, "Jai Hind #OperationSindoor" with a saluting smiley next to it.

For the unaware, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, hitting at terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed.

The Indian army's strong response comes in the wake of the terrible and dastardly attack by Pakistan-backed terrorists on tourists in Pahalgam in Kashmir which left 25 Indians and one Nepali national dead.

Stating that nine sites that were being used by terrorists had been targeted, the Indian Army said that its actions had been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature.

It also pointed out that no Pakistani military facilities had been targeted and that India had demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution.
New Delhi, May 7 : More than 70 terrorists were killed as India carried out missile strikes across nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir in response to the dastardly April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

The counterstrike left more than 60 terrorists injured across the nine target locations -- Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Bahawalpur, Rawalakot, Chakswari, Bhimber, Neelum Valley, Jhelum, and Chakwal.

Codenamed Operation Sindoor, it represented a "measured, non-escalatory, proportionate, and responsible" answer to Pakistan's continuing support of cross-border terrorism and strikes on India, the government said in a briefing Wednesday morning.

The targets were selected based on "credible intelligence input" and focused on "dismantling terrorist infrastructure and disabling terrorists", Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said in a press conference.

'Operation Sindoor' represented the country's right to respond to and pre-empt cross-border terrorism, he said.

Apart from Misri, the press conference was also addressed by two women officers -- Colonel Sofiya Qureshi from the Army and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh from the Air Force.

They highlighted the links between the targets and Pakistan-based terrorist groups, as well as their attacks on India.

Through the precisely coordinated missile strikes across nine terrorist-linked locations, India demonstrated that it would no longer tolerate cross-border terrorism, nor the complicity of state institutions that enable it.

The Indian Army, Navy and the Air Force, in a historic tri-services operation, carried out the strikes at 1.44 a.m. on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.

Sources said Prime Minister Narendra Modi constantly monitored the overnight operation.

India struck bases in Pakistan and PoK from where terrorist attacks were being planned and executed.

"Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution." "We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held responsible," India said in a statement.
Mumbai, May 7 : Celebrity chef Vikas Khanna honored India's cultural richness through a heartfelt tribute to the transgender community.

In his heartfelt post, he revealed that on May 8th, his restaurant Bungalow will mark the conclusion of the 18-day Koovagam Festivalone of the world's oldest and most revered gatherings of the transgender community, held annually in Koovagam, Tamil Nadu. Vikas revealed that his restaurant will be transformed into a space of vibrant ritual and reverence to mark the occasion.

The chef also posted a series of images and captioned it, "On May 8th, Bungalow proudly celebrates the closing of the 18-day Koovagam Festivalone of the world's largest and most sacred gatherings of the transgender community, held annually in Koovagam, Tamil Nadu. Rooted in the Mahabharata, the festival honors Aravan, who was married to Lord Krishna in his divine form as Mohini before offering himself in sacrificea powerful story of love, identity, and devotion."

He added, "To mark the occasion, we'll adorn our space with a vibrant rangoli of marigold, roses, and vermillion, and serve specially crafted petit fours inspired by Panchamritama sacred blend of milk, curd, ghee, honey, and banana, traditionally shared as prasadam. In ritual, in color, in sweetnesswe honor the spirit of Koovagam. PS- I've taken all these photos for my book UTSAV which is dedicated to the transgender community of India. During my 3 visits to this festival, I truly realized the power of India's diversity."

For the unversed, the Koovagam Festival is a vibrant 18-day annual celebration held in Koovagam, Tamil Nadu, where transgender womenknown as Aravaniscome together to participate in a deeply spiritual and cultural gathering. At the heart of the festivities is the Koothandavar Temple, where they symbolically marry the deity Aravan, a character from the Mahabharata, in a powerful expression of faith and identity.
New Delhi, May 7 : The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday approved the expansion of academic and infrastructure capacity of five new Indian Institutes of Technology (IlTs).

The expansion work will begin at IIT Tirupati (Andhra Pradesh), IIT Palakkad (Kerala), IIT Bhilai (Chhattisgarh), IIT Jammu (Jammu and Kashmir) and IIT Dharwad (Karnataka) at a cost of Rs.11,828.79 crore for four years, according to a Cabinet Communique.

The construction work starting from 2025-26 to 2028-29, will lead to an increase in academic seats -- by more than 6,500 in the next four years -- across undergraduate (UG), post-graduate (PG), and PhD programmes.

Student strength will see an increase of 1,364 in the first year, 1,738 in the second year, 1,767 students in the third year and 1,707 in the fourth year.

"On completion of construction, these five IITs shall be able to cater 13,687 students as against current student strength of 7,111, that is, an increase of 6,576 students," the Communique said.

The addition of seats "will foster nation-building by creating a skilled workforce, driving innovation, and boosting economic growth. It enhances social mobility, reduces educational inequality, and strengthens India's global position".

In addition, employment will be generated through the hiring of faculty, administrative staff, researchers, and support personnel to manage the increased number of students and facilities.

The Cabinet has also approved the creation of 130 faculty posts (at the level of Professor that is Level 14 and above) in these IlTs.

The expansion of IIT campuses also stimulates local economies by generating demand for housing, transportation, and services.

Further, to boost industry-academia linkage, five new state-of-the-art research parks will also be set up.

The plan to increase seats in IITs was also announced during the Union Budget 2025-26

"Total number of students in 23 IlTs has increased 100 per cent from 65,000 to 1.35 lakh in the past 10 years. Additional infrastructure will be created in the five IlTs started after 2014 to facilitate education for 6,500 more students," Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had announced.
Kolkata, May 7 : A reaction hailing India posted by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on X, presumably on 'Operation Sindoor' that the country launched against Pakistan, attracted snide comments from people on Wednesday morning.

Chief Minister Banerjee, who is generally known for ending any statement, verbal or written, with the slogan "Jai Bangla" on Wednesday made a post on her official X handle which read "Jai Hind! Jai India!"

Soon after the comment was posted there were snide reactions from individuals.

One person questioned whether the Chief Minister's X account had been hacked and the post "Jai Hind! Jai India!" was made by the hacker.

"Very unlikely post. Account hacked????" read the reply to the post by the Chief Minister.

Another respondent reminded the Chief Minister of her demand in March 2019 seeking evidence from the Union government about the Indian Air Force's strike at Balakot in Pakistan.

While raising the demand at that point in time, Mamata Banerjee stated that the people of India had the right to know the details of the destruction caused in the operations.

"When India strikes back, Mamata Banerjee, you tweeted 'Jai Hind! Jai India'. But in 2019, you praised the IAF one day and demanded proof the next  casting doubt on their valour. Patriotism isn't seasonal, Didi. Stop the chameleon politics," said another respondent to the post by the Chief Minister.

A third respondent to the post requested the Chief Minister to ensure that the Information Technology cell of Trinamool Congress spreads the message of nationalism for the next few days.

Another respondent reminded the Chief Minister of past instances where she criticised the Indian Army.

"Remember how you criticised the Indian Army! Why can't you write a post appreciating the Armed Forces and the Modi govt? Very difficult na? Quam must be hurting so much," his reply read.
New Delhi, May 7 : While Pakistan has threatened to respond forcefully to India's attack on terrorist infrastructure in the neighbouring country, the stark economic contrast between the two countries also bears testimony to the disparate paths that the two neighbours have been pursuing since they became independent from British rule.

India has emerged as the world's fastest-growing economy, with World Bank figures for 2024 showing that the country's GDP is close to $3.88 trillion, which is more than 10 times the size of Pakistan's economy at a mere $0.37 trillion.

India is poised to become the world's fourth-largest economy in 2025, with the country's nominal GDP rising to $4.187 billion during the year to surpass Japan, according to the IMF's World Economic Outlook report. India has a massive forex kitty of $688 billion.

Pakistan is on the verge of economic collapse and is surviving on IMF loans, with its forex reserves down to $15 billion.

Interestingly, Pakistan's economy, in the initial years after independence, grew at the same pace as India's, backed by US aid and donations from the oil-rich Islamic nations.

However, while democratic India kept its focus on economic development and lifting its masses out of poverty, Pakistan has been rocked by bloody coups and military dictatorships, with the army Generals still calling the shots and fuelling hostility against its more prosperous neighbour. The training and financing of terrorism by Pakistan forms a key element of this plot.

Pakistan now faces an economic freefall - crippled by political chaos and the long-term cost of harbouring terrorism which has boomeranged at the country as well leading to bloody violence in Balochistan and the North West Frontier Province.

Pakistan is confronted by a precarious situation on the economic front. The country was on the brink of sovereign default in 2023 and had to be bailed out by a $3 billion IMF loan. The country is still critically dependent on this financial lifeline and is desperately trying to raise another $1.3 billion climate resilience loan.

Meanwhile, global ratings agency Moody's on Monday said it sees India's macroeconomic conditions as remaining stable even if tensions with Pakistan rise after the horrific terror attack at Pahalgam in which 26 tourists were shot dead.

However, sustained escalation in tensions with India would likely hit Pakistan's economy and hamper its ongoing fiscal consolidation goals, the Moody's report said.

The report also pointed out that amid heightened geopolitical posturing, further flare-ups could impair access to external financing and put additional pressure on Pakistan's foreign-exchange reserves, which, at just over $15 billion, remain far below what is required to meet external debt obligations in the coming years.

The macroeconomic conditions in India, Moody's noted, remain stable due to strong public investment and resilient private consumption, despite the possibility of higher defence spending slowing its fiscal consolidation.

According to the report, comparatively, the macroeconomic conditions in India would be stable, bolstered by moderating but still high levels of growth amid strong public investment and healthy private consumption.

"In a scenario of sustained escalation in localised tensions, we do not expect major disruptions to India's economic activity because it has minimal economic relations with Pakistan (less than 0.5 per cent of India's total exports in 2024).
New Delhi, May 7 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday chaired a meeting of the Union Cabinet, where he briefed his ministers on Operation Sindoor -- a targeted military strike carried out by the Indian defence forces on nine terror camps across the border in the early hours of the day.

During the meeting, PM Modi informed the cabinet that the operation was executed exactly as planned, with "no mistakes whatsoever."

He emphasised that the Army had carried out the mission with utmost precision, adhering strictly to the detailed preparations that had been made in advance.

Sources said the Prime Minister praised the armed forces for their "commendable job" and "immaculate execution," underlining their professionalism and commitment to national security.

The cabinet ministers unanimously expressed confidence in PM Modi's leadership and lauded the armed forces for their successful operation.

They conveyed that the entire nation stood firmly behind the Prime Minister and the military establishment in the fight against terrorism.

The strike, targeting terror launchpads and camps used for infiltration across the border, is being viewed as a strong message against cross-border terrorism.

The Indian Army, Navy and the Air Force, in a historic tri-services operation, carried out precision strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, in response to the Pahalgam attack in which 26 civilians were killed on April 22.

PM Modi constantly monitored the overnight operation.

India struck bases in Pakistan and PoK from where terrorist attacks were being planned and executed. Nine sites were targeted in the strikes under the codename 'Operation Sindoor' -- an ode to the women who lost their husbands in the Pahalgam attack.

Two women officers of the Indian Armed Forces informed the media on Operation Sindoor on Wednesday.

Colonel Sophia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, in a press conference with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, said that the military strikes were carried out between 1.05 to 1.30 a.m. in the wee hours on Wednesday on credible intelligence inputs and the purpose was to decimate and destroy the terror infrastructure, terror launching pads and indoctrination centres across the border.

The women officers also documented the details of calibrated and measured retaliation and gave a detailed account of terror factories operating from those centres.
New Delhi, May 7 : A powerful wave of patriotic pride swept across India after the successful execution of 'Operation Sindoor', a precision military strike carried out by the Indian Armed Forces on nine high-value terror targets deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK).

The mission was a direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 civilians, including one Nepali national.

As news of the operation spread, leaders and citizens alike took to social media to express their admiration and gratitude toward the armed forces. The phrase "Jai Hind" and "Bharat Mata Ki Jai" resonated across platforms, capturing the collective emotion of a nation standing united behind its military.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta posted on X, "Bharat Mata Ki Jai!", saluting the courage of the forces.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav reposted the Indian Army's statement with the caption, "Bharat Mata Ki Jai. Justice is served. Jai Hind!"

Delhi Minister Parvesh Verma also echoed the sentiment, writing, "Bharat Mata Ki Jai #OperationSindoor."

The operation was closely monitored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and the senior military leadership.

Sources confirmed that the Prime Minister was in constant touch with top commanders as the mission unfolded overnight.

The Indian Army confirmed that all nine targets, terror camps, logistics hubs, and launch pads linked to groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba, were struck with surgical precision.

Officials stressed that no civilian areas or Pakistani military infrastructure were harmed.

"Our actions have been focussed and precise," said an Indian Army spokesperson. "We have only targeted terrorist camps from where attacks against India were being planned and executed."

'Operation Sindoor' marks one of the most significant cross-border actions taken by India since the Balakot airstrikes in 2019.
New Delhi, May 7 : Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Wednesday hailed "Operation Sindoor" of the Indian Armed Forces calling it a historic act of justice praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi for fulfilling his promise to avenge the loss of innocent lives in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 civilian lives, including one Nepali national.

In a strongly worded statement, CM Gupta said, "Today, the 140 crore citizens of the country express their heartfelt gratitude and salute to our esteemed Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and to the armed forces. We bow before them for the justice that has been delivered today to those sisters who lost their husbands to terrorism, to those innocent, helpless people who were brutally killed."

"Through Operation Sindoor, Pakistan has been taught a serious lesson. PM Modi had promised the sisters of this nation that the wrongs would be avenged, and he has fulfilled that promise," she added.

Taking aim at opposition leaders questioning the strike, Gupta said, "Those raising doubts should go to the front lines and pick up weapons themselves. Our armed forces have shown unmatched courage and valour. Pakistan has been served the strongest lesson yet."

Backing the sentiment, BJP leader Ravinder Singh Negi said, "The terrorists have been killed. This was a direct and fitting response to the brutal Pahalgam attack. The entire country wanted a strong answer, and PM Modi has delivered it. Even the opposition and government standing together on this is a strong message for the nation."

Operation Sindoor, a high-precision Indian military operation, struck nine terror infrastructure sites deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The action was taken in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack, which was traced back to Pakistan-based groups, including Lashkar-e-Taiba and its proxy The Resistance Front.

The operation was conducted with surgical precision and closely monitored by Prime Minister Modi, NSA Ajit Doval, and top military leadership.

According to the Indian Army, the strikes were focused solely on terrorist targets, sparing civilian and military infrastructure in Pakistan.

An Army spokesperson stated, "Our actions have been focused and precise. We have only targeted terrorist camps from where attacks against India were being planned and executed."

The Indian Army posted on X, "Justice is served. Jai Hind."

Operation Sindoor is being widely recognised as India's most significant counter-terror operation since the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, reinforcing the country's zero-tolerance stance on terrorism.
New Delhi, May 7 : Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi on Wednesday expressed strong support for the Indian Army's precision strike 'Operation Sindoor', launched in retaliation to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, including one Nepali national.

Taking to social media platform X, Priyanka Gandhi wrote, "We are extremely proud of our Army. Our brave soldiers protect our freedom and integrity. May God protect them and give them immense courage to face challenges with patience and bravery. Jai Hind."

Earlier in the day Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also expressed pride and support for the Indian armed forces following their precision strike, 'Operation Sindoor'.

The remarks came after India carried out a highly coordinated and strategic military operation deep inside Pakistani territory, targeting nine high-value terrorist installations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK).

These sites were believed to be linked to groups responsible for the Pahalgam terror attack, including The Resistance Front, a proxy outfit of Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Sources confirmed that the operation was meticulously planned and conducted with surgical precision. The strikes were closely monitored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and senior military commanders throughout the night.

According to Indian Army officials, the operation was strictly limited to terror infrastructure and avoided civilian, military, and economic targets in Pakistan.

"Our actions have been focussed and precise. We have only targeted terrorist camps from where attacks against India have been planned and executed," the Army spokesperson said.

The Army emphasised that the strike was non-escalatory in intent, designed solely to neutralise threats emanating from across the border. "Justice is served. Jai Hind," the spokesperson concluded.

'Operation Sindoor' is being hailed as one of India's most significant cross-border military actions since the Balakot airstrikes in 2019, underscoring a continued commitment to combating terrorism with strength, precision, and restraint.
Mumbai, May 7 : Director-writer Anees Bazmee, who recently helmed 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3', is celebrating 35 years of his film 'Swarg'.

On Wednesday, he took to his Instagram, and shared the poster of 'Swarg' which marked his debut in Hindi cinema. Anees penned the script of the film, which starred Rajesh Khanna and Govinda.

He also penned a note in the caption, as he wrote, "On the 35th anniversary of Swarg, I'm overwhelmed with gratitude! As a writer, the very first film marked a turning point in my career. The love and appreciation I received from everyone meant the world to me. When they said 'the writer had arrived', Since then, I've been fortunate to write for many talented filmmakers #35yearsofswarg".

Meanwhile, 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3' turned out to be one of the biggest hits of 2024 with Kartik Aaryan clinching the IIFA trophy for Best Actor (Male) for his work in the superhit horror-comedy franchise.

During his heartfelt acceptance speech at IIFA, this year, the actor referenced his role in 'Chandu Champion', said, "I don't have words right now. I am not Chandu, I am the champion. I know this is not an award for that film, but I have the same feeling".

Kartik was cast in 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2' replacing Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar, the casting made huge noise and riled up the loyal fans of Akshay Kumar. However, Kartik cranked it up a notch as the film franchise with him the in lead has collectively earned close to Rs 600 crore.

Despite these hurdles, Kartik expressed immense gratitude to his fans for their unwavering support. He also credited director Anees Bazmee for shaping his character of Rooh Baba, as he said, "A big thank you to Anees Bazmee sir for creating such a huge character, Rooh Baba, which has truly become a legacy across generations".
Chennai, May 7 : Nutritionist Divya Sathyaraj, the daughter of well-known Tamil film actor Sathyaraj, has opined that any leader who encouraged or remained silent about threats or abuse towards women was unfit to be called a true leader.

Taking to her Instagram timeline to give her reply to "Do you like Ajith or Vijay", a question that she had been frequently asked, Divya Sathyaraj wrote, "When people ask me this question, I've always said, "I like Ajith sir."

"He is a great actor, and more importantly, he respects women. He is a family man who treats the women in his life with immense respect, and his fans admire and follow his values. Ajith sir's fans do not abuse women on social media- they are not cowards; they carry themselves with dignity and class," Divya Sathyaraj said.

The nutritionist also went on to say, "Ajith sir would never endorse or allow his fans to threaten or disrespect women online. He has helped many people quietly, without seeking publicity. I believe any leader who encourages or remains silent about threats or abuse towards women is unfit to be called a true leader."

It may be recalled that Divya Sathyaraj had only recently joined the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). Interestingly, only a week back, she had made it clear on Instagram that her dad, Sathyaraj, was not a politician.

"My best friend Sathya is an actor and Iam a politician a" heas not a politician and Iam not an actor. We have our differences, but weall always look in the same direction," she had said about her father.
New Delhi, May 7 : As India carried out a successful operation against terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir under the code name 'Operation Sindoor', it has come to the fore that Prime Minister Narendra Modi chose the name.

Sources have said that PM Modi chose the name 'Operation Sindoor' for India's retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack.

The name Operation Sindoor is heavy with symbolism, especially for Hindu women, who put sindoor (vermilion) on their heads after marriage. Sindoor is considered a symbol of marriage.

In the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, 26 civilians were killed, and of these, 25 were Hindu men. They were singled out for their religion and shot at point-blank range. The men were holidaying in the picturesque Baisaran meadows of Pahalgam when a group of armed terrorists attacked them. Some of the victims were newly married and were in Kashmir for their honeymoon. The others were shot dead in front of their wives and children.

Sources said that to honour those families, the name was zeroed in on and finalised.

An image put out by the Indian Army has Operation Sindoor written in block letters. One 'O' in Sindoor is a bowl of vermilion and some of which is spilled over, symbolising the brutality of the terrorists. The caption reads: "Justice is served. Jai Hind."

The operation has struck a chord with the Pahalgam victims, and Army veterans have also welcomed it, calling it a fitting tribute to the widows who lost their life partners in the savage attack.

Colonel Abhay Patvardhan (Retd) in an exclusive conversation with IANS said, "Operation Sindoor has been perfectly named to honour the victims and families of Pahalgam as it shows that the government not only counts the casualties as numbers but attempts to honour them by humanising their feelings and sentiments."

Brigadier Uday Kumar W Deshmukh, SM (Sena Medal), VSM (Retd.) lauded the Operation Sindoor, stating that the Indian armed forces can breathe down Pakistan's neck and can tighten the noose further, if the terror-sponsoring nation doesn't mend its ways.

Aarti, a mother of twins who saw her 68-year-old father Ramachandran being gunned down by a terrorist, expressed happiness over Operation Sindoor. "Even though our loss can never be compensated, we are happy about what has happened when India hit back at Pakistan," said Aarti after hearing the news.

"India has hit back at the correct time, and it was the moment we all waited," added Aarti.

The family of Shubham Dwivedi, one of the 26 civilians killed in the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack, expressed deep gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the armed forces for fulfilling the promise of justice.

Shubham Dwivedi, a 30-year-old civilian from Uttar Pradesh, was visiting Pahalgam with his wife and sister-in-law when terrorists opened fire on unarmed tourists. He was shot in the head and died at the scene. His wife, Ashanya Dwivedi, said, "I would like to sincerely thank everyone who is connected to this operation, especially our personnel in the armed forces and especially Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who personally looked after the operation," she said.

"The name 'Operation Sindoor' clearly shows they stand with us, those who lost their husbands. Whatever the Prime Minister said, he proved it. Wherever terrorism exists, it will be eliminated."
New Delhi, May 7 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called off his scheduled three-nation Europe tour in the wake of heightened tensions with Pakistan, sources confirmed on Wednesday. PM Modi was scheduled to travel to Croatia, Norway and the Netherlands starting May 13 and also participate in the 3rd India-Nordic Summit in Oslo on May 15-16.

New Delhi, May 7 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called off his scheduled three-nation Europe tour in the wake of heightened tensions with Pakistan, sources confirmed on Wednesday. PM Modi was scheduled to travel to Croatia, Norway and the Netherlands starting May 13 and also participate in the 3rd India-Nordic Summit in Oslo on May 15-16.

However, the visits have now been cancelled and the concerned governments notified, sources said a few hours after India conducted 'Operation Sindoor' to target terror camps in Pakistan following the heinous April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that resulted in the death of 26 innocent civilians.

Last month, PM Modi had cut short his Saudi Arabia visit and returned home immediately after the Pahalgam terror attack.

Prime Minister Modi also decided not to travel to Moscow to attend the Victory Day celebrations of Russia scheduled for May 9.

The decision to suspend Europe visit comes amid increased volatility along the Line of Control (LoC) after India carried out precision missile strikes on nine high-value terror targets across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The government described the operation as a calibrated military action aimed solely at dismantling terror infrastructure without escalating broader hostilities.

'Operation Sindoor', launched at 1:44 am on Wednesday, was a joint effort involving the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The strikes were closely monitored through the night by Prime Minister Modi, who remained in constant contact with senior military commanders and National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval.

The government reiterated that "our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution."

"This government has kept its promise -- those responsible will be held accountable," India said in a statement.
New Delhi, May 7 : As India executed 'Operation Sindoor', a notable shift was observed in the editorial tone of prominent American daily The New York Times, which for the first time referred to the perpetrators of the Pahalgam massacre as "terrorists" in its headline -- a marked departure from its earlier usage of softer terms such as "militants" and "gunmen".

The front-page headline on the NYT website stated: "India Strikes Pakistan Two Weeks After Terrorist Attack in Kashmir," signalling a distinct editorial change that has come amid growing criticism over the paper's earlier coverage.

The Pahalgam attack, which occurred on April 22, left 26 people dead, including 25 Indian tourists and one Nepali citizen, when they were gunned down in cold blood in Jammu and Kashmir's Baisaran valley.

Despite the headline change, the NYT continued to use controversial terminology within the body of its report, referring to the region as "Indian-administered Kashmir" and "Indian-controlled side of Kashmir," thus failing to acknowledge Jammu and Kashmir as an integral part of India.

This aspect of the report continues to draw flak from Indian observers and diaspora groups who argue that such language echoes Pakistan's narrative on the region.

In its coverage of India's retaliatory military action, the paper reported: "India said it had struck Pakistan after gathering evidence 'pointing towards the clear involvement of Pakistan-based terrorists' in last month's attack on civilians."

It also highlighted India's emphasis that the response was "measured, responsible and designed to be non-escalatory in nature" and that "only known terror camps" were targeted during the overnight operation.

The newspaper's usage of the term "terrorist" in its headline gained widespread attention, particularly in view of the backlash it had received last month for its initial portrayal of the Pahalgam attackers.

At that time, critics slammed the NYT for describing the attackers merely as "militants" or "gunmen", with many pointing out that such descriptions significantly downplayed the brutality of the incident.

The backlash was amplified by a post on social media platform X from the US House Foreign Affairs Committee, which shared a screenshot of the original NYT headline, "At Least 24 Tourists Gunned Down by Militants in Kashmir," with the word "militants" crossed out and replaced with "terrorists" in bold red.

The Committee wrote, "Hey, @nytimes we fixed it for you. This was a TERRORIST ATTACK plain and simple. Whether it's India or Israel, when it comes to TERRORISM the NYT is removed from reality."

The framing of the Pahalgam attack as merely a "shooting" has also provoked sharp criticism from various quarters of the US government and Indian diplomatic channels, who argue that such terminology grossly understates the nature of the atrocity.
Los Angeles, May 7 : Rapper A$AP Rocky has heaped praise on Hollywood star Denzel Washington, with whom he has worked in 'Highest 2 Lowest'

The 36-year-old rapper stars opposite Washington, in 'Highest 2 Lowest', a new neo-noir crime thriller film, and Rocky said to relish the experience of working with the Hollywood icon, confessing that he's "always gonna be a student and a fan of certain people".

Speaking to Variety, Rocky shared: "It was like a dream come true. But trust me, it was difficult to not fan out every millisecond of the duration. It was crazy - it's Denzel, man. I don't give a  how successful (I am): I'm always gonna be a student and a fan of certain people, and I'm always going to give them their flowers."

"I'm never going to be too big to be able to say that I had to hold my composure from not fanning out. The first movies I really loved were 'Juice', 'Malcolm X' and 'Michael Jackson: Moonwalker'. The first time I saw him, I was watching 'Malcolm X'."

Rocky has also starred alongside the likes of Rose Byrne, Conan O'Brien and Danielle Macdonald in 'If I Had Legs I'd Kick You', the new drama film directed and written by Mary Bronstein, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

The rap star has said that he feels very proud of that project, which centres on a woman who tries to navigate her child's mysterious illness, too.

Rocky said: "That film is for all the moms across the world. It's so hard for women. To be a mom, oh my God, the responsibility."

Rocky subsequently discussed his own approach to parenting, revealing that he tries to "spend as much time with (his) little ones" as possible.

The rapper, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, said: "Like being a dad, people always kind of look at you for, like, financial responsibility or to fix the sink and fix the car and do this and that. Honestly, man, the way that we look at roles, it's really traditional. But it's a bit different when you're in a position where you barely drive.

"I ain't gonna fix no cars, right? I don't go on my roof, I don't even know if anything could get stuck on my roof. I haven't cleaned the gutters, none of that stuff. I'm busy creating some crazy master plans. I'm trying to spend as much time with my little ones when I'm not on phone calls all day."
Islamabad, May 7 : Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said that the current tensions and escalated confrontation between India and Pakistan can come to a halt only if New Delhi backs out of its aggressive position. Asif's remarks came after India launched 'Operation Sindoor', targetting nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) striking alleged terror hideouts. Pakistan also claimed to have responded to Indian airstrikes with counter-offensive measures along the Line of Control (LoC).

Speaking to Bloomberg, Asif said that Pakistan holds the right to respond to any aggression by India, insisting that Islamabad "was only responding" to India's attacks and should not be seen as the aggressor in the current conflict.

"This has been initiated by India. If India is ready to back down, we will definitely wrap up this tension," he said.

"As long as we are under attack, under fire, we have to respond. We have to defend ourselves. But if India backs down, we will wrap up this tension", the Pakistani Defence Minister added.

Pakistan's Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lt. General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said that at least 26 people have been killed and 46 others injured in the airstrikes that New Delhi stated were conducted on terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Punjab province.

The country has been put on a 'red alert', with government hospitals ready for any emergency; airspace for all domestic and international flights closed for at least 24 to 36 hours; all educational institutions in capital Islamabad and the Punjab province closed; and, all forces on stand by following the late night Indian air strikes on terror hideouts in different parts of the country.

The Indian strikes and Islamabad's retaliation has jolted locals who fear that it could potentially lead to a full-scale war between the two countries.

The strikes targeted six different locations inside Pakistan, including Masjid SubhanAllah - the alleged hideout of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Maulana Masood Azhar in Ahmedpur Sharqia area of Bahawalpur city in Pakistan's South Punjab province.

Multiple strikes were also conducted in other areas, including Muridke, the alleged hideout and headquarters of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jamaat ud Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed besides other locations in Muzaffarabad, Kotli and Bagh cities.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who will address the nation on Wednesday afternoon, called an emergency National Security Committee (NSC) meeting at the Prime Minister's House to discuss the current security situation in the country, and the future course of action against India.

The crucial meeting will formulate policy and also contemplate on the interventions by global powers, including the United States, which has called on both sides to show restraint and de-escalate the fast-aggravating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
Mumbai, May 7 : Actor Vivek Oberoi has said that the recently conducted 'Operation Sindoor' by Indian forces, at terror camps in Pakistan, was a careful and precise operation against terror.

The actor, who has essayed PM Modi in the biopic 'PM Narendra Modi', took to his X, formerly Twitter, and penned a long note, as he lavished praise on the Indian forces for their acute sense of precision.

He wrote, "Terror shall not prevail, India's spirit and power shall keep rising to reclaim the light and ensure such darkness never again stains our sacred soil. The world must stand united against the evil of terror. Let's not fall prey to propaganda that tries to divide us, this is not a war against any religion or nation, it's a war against terror".

"Operation Sindoor is a revenge for the tears of the widows of India and a stern warning to the terrorists that their evil deeds will no longer go unpunished", he added.

The recent strikes, a pre-dawn offensive codenamed Operation Sindoor, were carried across 9 terror sites in Pakistan. Indian forces specifically targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the Ministry of Defence confirmed in a press release issued.

Reportedly, surface-to-surface missiles were used to strike the terror camps in Pakistan. Pakistan, on its part, has unleashed a wave of misinformation and disinformation in order to swing the public opinion in their favour. However, media reports have pointed out collateral damage at a few places.

Pakistani officials also claimed to have shot down 5 Indian fighter jets, however, in the absence of any credible evidence, this claim seems to be an empty statement.

The move is a retaliation to the brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 25 Indian civilians and one Nepali national.

New Delhi has said that the strikes were non-escalatory in nature.
Patna, May 7 : Jan Suraaj Party chief Prashant Kishor has extended his full support to the Indian armed forces and the airstrikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir (PoK), on Wednesday, calling the military action under 'Operation Sindoor' a justified and necessary step to dismantle terrorist camps.

While addressing the media in Purnea during his Jan Suraaj Udghosh Yatra, Kishor said, "The Indian Air Force's action is right and commendable. We salute them, and the entire country is with them. Let the Army and the experts do their job without interference."

Kishor cautioned against politicising the military response and stressed the need for restraint and respect toward the armed forces.

"This is a matter of national security involving the lives of our soldiers and citizens. It is not something to be turned into a political debate. We must allow the military and national security experts to act decisively and strategically," he added.

The Jan Suraaj leader also emphasised that the goal should be the complete dismantling of terror threats to prevent future attacks, and prayed for the safety of all Indian personnel involved.

Apart from political support, there has been a wave of celebration among the common people across various districts of Bihar, including Hajipur, Katihar, and Purnea.

In Hajipur, married women celebrated military success in a symbolic and emotional gesture by applying sindoor (vermilion) to one another  signifying honour and gratitude toward the protectors of their families and the nation.

Elsewhere, crackers were burst, and gulal was applied by crowds shouting "Jai Hind" and "Bharat Mata ki Jai" in support of the Indian Armed Forces.

Residents echoed a unified message: "India does not start fights, but it surely ends them."

The Indian Air Force conducted air raids on the nine locations belonging to terror groups in Pakistan and PoK between 1.05 am to 1.30 pm on Wednesday.

Sources have said that a massive level of destruction took place in those terror camps and their launch pads.
Patna, May 7 : Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) founder and former Bihar Minister Mukesh Sahani on Wednesday voiced strong support for the Indian Army's retaliatory airstrike under 'Operation Sindoor', describing it as a decisive action against the roots of terrorists in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Speaking after the successful operation, Sahani said, "India has always given the message of peace to the world, but we have never tolerated terrorism. Whoever has challenged our sovereignty has received a befitting reply."

Sahani extended his party's full support to the Central government's military response following the April 22 Pahalgam attack.

"Our party stands firmly with the Central government in taking any military action. The attack on terrorist bases in Pakistan is not an act of aggression, but a step toward dismantling the foundation of terrorism," he added.

He hailed the operation as "historic and bold", carried out jointly by India's Army, Air Force, and Navy, saying: "Our brave soldiers have eliminated nine terrorist bases that were the womb of terrorism. We salute our forces and are proud of their courage and valour."

In Bihar, celebrations erupted in several districts following the operation.

Local people in Motihari, Jamui, Begusarai, Saran, Vaishali and Siwan took to the streets, bursting firecrackers, smearing gulal, and chanting slogans like "Bharat Mata ki Jai" in a display of patriotic fervour.

Residents echoed a common sentiment: "Whenever Pakistan provokes India, it will be answered with strength and resolve. India will not spare those who threaten its sovereignty."

The Indian Air Force conducted air raids on the nine locations belonging to terror groups in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir between 1.05 a.m. to 1.30 a.m. on Wednesday.

The Indian Army's spokesperson emphasised the precise nature of the strikes, stating, "Our actions have been focused and precise. We have only targeted terrorist camps from where attacks against India have been planned and executed."

The Army further said that the operation was non-escalatory in intent and execution, aiming strictly at dismantling terror infrastructure while sparing civilian, military, and economic structures in Pakistan.
Mumbai, May 7 : Veteran actress and BJP MP Hema Malini has expressed strong support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian Armed Forces following the successful execution of Operation Sindoor.

In a heartfelt message, she praised the operation as a powerful and well-planned response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack, hailing it as a necessary step to bring justice to the victims and their families. Commending PM Narendra Modi for authorizing the targeted military action, the 'Sholay' actress said the government's firm response has brought justice to the victims.

Taking to X, Hema Malini wrote, "Koti Pranam to our powerful Army and our Airforce who have given a fitting reply to the terrorists who had taken the lives of innocent tourists and had in one evil stroke, widowed 26 of our women. Yes! Modi ji launched the most effective Operation Sindoor against the enemy, thus avenging the innocent citizens who were massacred mercilessly in Pahalgam. The entire nation has risen as one in support of the govt action. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!"

Following the success of Operation Sindoor, Bollywood celebrities have come forward to express their admiration and support for the Indian Armed Forces and the government's decisive action. The operation, which strategically targeted terror hubs without violating Pakistan's airspace, has received widespread praise from stars across the film industry.

Joining Hema Malini, several other actors and filmmakers from the film industry took to social media, offering their heartfelt tributes to the armed forces. Celebrities like Ajay Devgn, Kajol, Sunny Deol, Preity Zinta, Akshay Kumar, Raveena Tandon, Rohit Shetty, Milind Soman, and others have praised the operation, acknowledging the courage and determination of the Indian Army in protecting the nation.

On May 7, Operation Sindoor became a pivotal moment in India's fight against terrorism, highlighting the precision and strategic capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces. Initiated in the early hours of the day, the operation targeted critical terror hubs across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) as a strong countermeasure to escalating threats and attacks on Indian soil.
Bengaluru, May 7 : Karnataka Home Minister, G. Parameshwara, stated on Wednesday that "we are taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety of civilians. Karnataka State Fire and Emergency Services (KSFES) teams have been deployed at key locations including power plants, dams, and airports." Bengaluru, May 7 (IANS) Karnataka Home Minister, G. Parameshwara, stated on Wednesday that "we are taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety of civilians. Karnataka State Fire and Emergency Services (KSFES) teams have been deployed at key locations including power plants, dams, and airports."

Speaking to the media on Wednesday in Bengaluru, HM Parameshwara made the statement in the backdrop of 'Operation Sindoor' carried out against Pakistan in retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed.

He mentioned that the Union Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Defence have already issued certain instructions. "The state Intelligence wing has been directed to maintain continuous coordination with central Intelligence agencies," he added.

HM Parameshwara further stated, "Locations already secured by central forces will continue to be under their protection. We will handle areas under our jurisdiction. I have directed the police to take all necessary precautions."

Answering a question on the return of Pakistani citizens, HM Parameshwara stated, "Pakistani nationals have already been identified and sent back. We are in contact with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), and further steps will be taken based on the information they provide."

He also informed that a civil defence drill would be conducted at 4 pm today.

Commenting on the strike, HM Parameshwara stated, "The entire nation supports the Indian defence forces for carrying out strikes on Pakistan-based terrorist camps."

He said, "Following the terrorist gun attack on tourists in Pahalgam, we all support this retaliatory action. To safeguard the nation's interests, we must stand united. The entire public will stand with the country's defence forces."

When asked about the cancellation of a scheduled protest rally against the Centre by the Congress party in Raichur, HM Parameshwara stated, "National security is more important than any other event. That is why the Chief Minister cancelled it. At a time when the country's safety is at stake, any minor differences or disagreements among us must be set aside. We must unite in defence of the nation."
Agartala, May 7 : Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Wednesday said that India's 'Operation Sindoor' is a "befitting response" to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives and other such dastardly acts on Indian soil.

The Chief Minister, on the sidelines of an official event, said that the 'Operation Sindoor' is a strongly planned attack on terrorist training camps and launchpads in Pakistan.

He shared that during 'Operation Sindoor', not a single civilian or their habitations were attacked.

"We have reports of some deaths. PM Narendra Modi does what he says. We are with him. We express solidarity with the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force and all Indian forces," CM Saha told the media.

Speaking on the stand of Bangladesh on 'Operation Sindoor', he said that the neighbouring country (Bangladesh) has not said anything so far.

"Bangladesh had condemned the (Pahalgam) terrorist attack. So let's see what they say," CM Saha said.

Tripura shares 856 km of international border with Bangladesh.

CM Saha, who also holds the Home portfolio, also said that while Pakistan claims not to agree with terrorism, its actions show otherwise.

"PM Modi has said we shall not excuse anyone and we are with him," he said.

The Chief Minister said: "Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has told the media about what happened in 'Operation Sindoor' and why... look at how many times terrorists have attacked India. It is high time to give a befitting response to them. Enough is enough. Appropriate response is being given and will continue to be given in future."

Tripura Governor Indra Sena Reddy Nallu praised the Indian armed forces' move, saying nobody who looks at India with "evil eye" and tries to create disturbance would be allowed to go scot free.

"Whoever looks at our country with evil eyes and tries to create disturbances, the PM Modi has said there is no option to let them go scot free. Operation Sindoor targeted hideouts where terrorists were trained. If that county retaliates, we are also prepared for it," the Governor told the media.

He also said that the Central government has ordered to conduct mock drills across the country to "prepare for everything".

"Everyone holds the responsibility to participate in this drill and become prepared," he said.

He said operationalising air raid warning systems and testing communication, among others, reflect a proactive role in national security.

"Preparedness is not an act of fear but a testimony to commitment to protect every life," he said.

Recounting his own experience as a young student during the 1971 Indo-Pak War, Reddy Nallu said that in 1971, when there was a war against Pakistan, it led to the creation of sovereign Bangladesh.

"I was a student at that time (1071), rehearsals were held, sirens sounded, lights had to be turned off so that attackers couldn't see targets from above. We have to be prepared for any situation. Mock drills are being conducted across the country. All of us should participate," the Governor stated.
Islamabad, May 7 : The US mission in Pakistan issued a security alert to American citizens on Wednesday, advising them to depart from areas of active conflict zones.

This came hours after the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine high-value terror locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 innocent civilians.

"We are aware of reports of military strikes by India into Pakistan. This remains an evolving situation, and we are closely monitoring developments. US citizens are reminded of the 'Do Not Travel' advisory for areas in the vicinity of the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict, and the US Department of State's 'Reconsider Travel' advisory for Pakistan generally," the diplomatic mission said in a statement.

The US Department of State had issued a travel advisory in March, also urging its citizens to "reconsider travel to Pakistan due toaterrorism and the potential for armed conflict."

"Do Not Travel to: Balochistan Province and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Province, which include the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), due to terrorism. The immediate vicinity of the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control due toaterrorismaandathe potential for armed conflict," the advisory stated.

India stressed that Operation Sindoor was a calibrated military action, not an act of escalation.

"Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution," the government said.

Foreign Secretary Misri underlined that India's objective was to dismantle terror infrastructure without endangering civilians or provoking wider conflict.

"Operation Sindoor was a proportionate and responsible response to Pakistan's ongoing support for terrorism," he said.

He added that in the days since the Pahalgam attack, Pakistan had only issued denials and accusations instead of acting against the perpetrators.
New Delhi, May 7 : An Indian-origin researcher in the US has developed a probiotic cocktail that will help prevent dementia -- a condition that affects memory, thinking, and the ability to perform daily activities of more than 57 million people worldwide.

The cocktail, developed by Hariom Yadav from the University of South Florida, is a unique blend of probiotics that can positively impact the microbiome -- the unseen community of microorganisms that live by the trillions in a person's gut.

While in healthy individuals, the microorganisms live harmoniously in their vast internal community, the gut also can become populated with certain bacteria and viruses.

This can cause disruptions throughout the body, ultimately triggering a progression over time that contributes to dementia and Alzheimer's disease -- the most common cause of dementia.

The probiotic cocktail, detailed in the journal Scientific Reports, suggest that the concoction could become a novel therapy to help lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.

In the study, the team mixed the cocktail in miceas drinking water for 16 weeks and then subjected them to a "water maze" test. The mice were given visual cues to help them swim to a hidden underwater platform.

The findings showed that the cocktail-drinking mice were consistently able to find the platform faster.

The cocktail also reduced the levels of proteins that can cause the build-up of sticky plaques in the brain. It appeared to lower levels of brain inflammation and preserve tight junctions in the blood-brain barrier -- preventing leakage of harmful microorganisms into the brain.

The results suggest that this probiotics mixture could decrease the progression of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease, the researchers said.

"Normally, people look at some single-strand probiotics. But we discovered that when they are put together as a consortia, they actually have more power for manipulating microbiomes, switching them from the bad side to the good side," Yadav said.

The probiotic cocktail serves to decrease inflammatory bacteria in the gut, effectively suppressing that population. Yadav and his team are currently working on commercialising the cocktail, in contact with various companies to potentially bring it to market.
Moscow, May 7 : Russia and Japan expressed deep concern on Wednesday over escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan.

"We are deeply concerned by the heightened military tensions between India and Pakistan in the wake of a terror attack near the town of Pahalgam," Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova said.

The remarks came after the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine high-value terror locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the dastardly April 22 terror attack, which killed 26 innocent civilians.

"Russia resolutely condemns acts of terrorism as it opposes any manifestations of it and accentuates the need to join forces globally for an effective fight against this evil," Zakharova said.

"We call on the parties concerned to exercise restraint in order to prevent the situation in the region from escalating. We hope that the latest dispute between India and Pakistan will be resolved through peaceful political and diplomatic means on a bilateral basis in accordance with the provisions of the 1972 Shimla Agreement and the 1999 Lahore Declaration," she added.

Earlier on Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin called Prime Minister Narendra Modi and "strongly condemned" the April 22 terror attack, offering "full support" to India in its ongoing fight against terrorism.

Additionally, Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi, while reaffirming Japan's first stance against terrorism, said, "Japan is deeply concerned that the recent series of events could lead to further reprisals and escalate into a full-scale military conflict. Japan strongly urges both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and stabilise the situation through dialogue for the peace and stability in South Asia."

"Japan will continue to monitor the situation closely while taking all possible measures to protect Japanese nationals abroad," the foreign minister added.

Operation Sindoor was launched in the early hours of Wednesday, and the tri-services operation was conducted jointly by the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy.

The operation targeted infrastructure linked to terror groups responsible for the April 22 terror attack.

The Indian government on Wednesday said that India has exercised its right to respond to dastardly acts of terror emanating from the neighbouring nation.

Addressing a press conference, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, along with Colonel Sophia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh on 'Operation Sindoor', said that India's response to Pahalgam attacks was measured, calibrated and non-escalatory.

Real-time surveillance and post-strike assessments confirmed the destruction of the intended targets.

Operation Sindoor marks one of India's most assertive cross-border military responses since the Balakot airstrikes in 2019.
Bengaluru, May 7 : The Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly, R. Ashoka, said on Wednesday that if Operation Sindoor-like counterstrike had been carried out after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, the issue would have been resolved then only.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday in Bengaluru, he said that Indian soldiers have eliminated terrorists in retaliation for the killings of Hindus by terrorists.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi has delivered a major blow to Pakistan. India has shown it can strike even on Pakistani soil. If such a counterstrike had been carried out during the Mumbai terror attacks, the issue would have been resolved then," he said.

"Even in such circumstances, the Congress party has posted about peace on social media. The Uttar Pradesh Congress President made a video tying a lemon to a fighter jet. Yet, Karnataka Minister Zameer Ahmed says he will go with a bomb strapped to himself. Last time, during the surgical strike, Congress leaders demanded evidence. Now, evidence has appeared in all media before they could ask for it," Ashoka stated.

"Will Congress leaders still search for evidence or keep chanting peace mantras?" Which side is the Congress party, chanting peace mantras, on? Karnataka Congress, talking about peace during times of war, has completely lost its way. This is an insult to the nation," said Ashoka.

"While Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge supports the Central government, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah says no to war. Karnataka Congress and the National Congress are entirely different. They give no value to senior Congress leader Jairam Rameshas warnings. Which side is the peace-chanting Congress on? This is an insult to the nation. Mallikarjun Kharge should at least now take action against Karnataka Congress leaders," Ashoka said.

He said Congress is worried that if there is a war against Pakistan, it will lose Muslim votes. "While all states are deporting Pakistani citizens, Karnataka has not yet done so. Congress could have at least congratulated the soldiers in its tweet. Congress leaders should clarify how long they will keep chanting peace mantras," he said.

The BJP leader said the Congress leaders say war is the last option. "Does that mean after everyone is dead, Congress ministers should be handed a gun and sent? Even if Minister Zameer goes with a bomb, terrorists wonat kill him. Minister Zameer should first deal with the Pakistanis within India. Let him strap a bomb and go to the sleeper cells in the Congress office," Ashoka said.

"Chief Minister Siddaramaiah himself has said he doesnat visit temples. But now, for political tactics, he has applied tilak while addressing the media on Operation Sindoor. He has no faith in Hinduism," Ashoka alleged.

He also said that the Congress government has unjustly suspended the BJP MLAs in the Legislative Assembly. "This should be limited to the session. Speaker U.T. Khader doesnat even know how to run the House. I called him eight times, and he says, 'Come later'," the BJP leader said.
Mumbai, May 7 : As the entire country stands in support of the Indian Armed forces for carrying out Operation Sindoor in response to the Pahalgam attack, several prominent names from the television industry have also praised the Indian army using social media.

Taking to his X handle, actor Karan Tacker wrote, "Immensely proud of my country & our armed forces today for taking a firm stand against terrorism. Praying for the safety and well-being of everyone on the front lines & all civilians. Jai Hind."

'Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain!' fame actress Shubhangi Atre shared, "When I first heard the news about Operation Sindoor, my heart was filled with pride and respect for our armed forces. I silently prayed for the safety of every soldier involved. Itas never easy to take such strong steps, but sometimes it becomes necessary to protect our nation and its people. I believe our forces know the right time and the right way to act, and they have shown that once again. As an Indian, I stand with them and salute their courage and determination."

Simaran Kaur showed her support with the following words, "As an Indian, my heart swelled with pride on hearing the news. Our armed forces always stand as a wall between us and terror. I believe this strike was not just timelya"it was necessary. It sends a strong message that we will not tolerate any threat to our nation's peace. Our brave soldiers have once again shown their strength and courage. Itas never easy to take such big decisions. A big salute to our armed forcesa"they are the real heroes of our country."

Many others, such as Devoleena Bhattacharjee, Avika Gor, Hina Khan, Rupali Ganguly, Munawar Faruqui, and Rahul Vaidya also lauded the Indian Forces for taking a firm stand against terrorism through Operation Sindoor.

The Indian Army attacked several terror sites in Pakistan on Wednesday, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
Jammu, May 7 : Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror outfit chief, Azhar Masood admitted that ten of his family members were killed in the missile strikes launched by the Indian armed forces during 'Operation Sindoor' in the wee hours of Wednesday.

In an Urdu statement released to the media, Masood said, "Ten members of my family including five children, my elder sister and her husband, my Islamic scholar nephew, his wife and my niece in addition to this, my old friend Hazifa, his mother and two other colleagues were killed."

He alleged that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had targeted innocent children, devout Muslim women and elderly people.

"I am grieved beyond words, but I am neither sorry, nor afraid. I have been praying to Allah that I should have been included in these 14 guests of Allah who become martyrs today.

"The killing of children and innocent people have not dampened our resolve. They (Indians) should not expect any mercy from us now.

"The fallen minaret of Subhanullah mosque will finally fall on the Indian people in such a manner that their future generations won't be able to forget", he threatened.

In the same statement, the JeM chief said that the funeral prayers of these 14 killed in Indian strikes would be held at 4 pm.

Around 1.44 am on Wednesday, Indian armed forces targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK) with precision and without attacking any military target in Pakistan.

A Ministry of Defence statement said that nine places were hit during 'Operation Sindoor' including Muridke, Bhawalpur, Kotli and Muzaffarabad in PoK.

Pakistan Army has used heavy mortar shelling to violate the ceasefire on the Line of Control (LoC) today.

Seven civilians were killed in Pakistani shelling and 38 others were injured in Poonch district.

Pakistan Army used mortar shells in Uri, Karnah in the Valley and Poonch and Rajouri in Jammu division.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha took review of the situation on the LoC and directed the district administration to shift the population to safer places from vulnerable areas.

Meanwhile, the Indian Air Force has taken over the Srinagar airport and announced suspension of civilian flights till May 10.
New Delhi, May 7 : Haryana is set to hold mock and blackout drills across all 20 districts this evening, as per the Home Ministry's guidelines on 'Operation Abhyas'.

The drill will begin with a siren sound and include exercises like evacuation, response coordination, followed by full blackout, officials said.

Residents have been urged to switch off all lights and remain indoors as part of the drive.

Under the 'Operation Abhyas', a large-scale drill will be carried out simulating air raid and blackout scenarios - thereby preparing people for exigencies during war-like situations.

During a high-level meeting on Wednesday, Haryana chief secretary Anurag Rastogi issued comprehensive instructions to all Deputy Commissioners and Police officers regarding operational aspects of the mock drill.

The exercise will commence at major government establishments, public sector units and other important sites. The mock drill will involve Home Guards, Civil Defence Volunteers, Police, NCC officials and Disaster Mitras.

Deputy Commissioners have been directed to activate their civil defence systems as part of a coordinated response.

They will also encourage people to participate in the drive. The general public has been requested to switch off all the lights in their houses during the blackout drill from 7.50 pm to 8.00 pm. People have been advised to stay indoors, and if some are driving, they should park their vehicle on the side and switch off the lights.

"Stay where you are and do not move around. During the alert, turn off all lights inside and outside the house. Also, disconnect the inverter or alternative power supply," are among the guidelines issued to the general public during the blackout drill.
Seoul, May 7 : An appeals court on Wednesday sentenced a Chinese former employee of SK hynix to five years in prison for leaking the company's core semiconductor technology.

The Suwon High Court handed down the sentence, along with a 30 million-won ($21,500) fine, to the 37-year-old defendant for leaking company secrets by printing out some 4,000 pages of material on solutions to semiconductor manufacturing problems, shortly before transferring to Chinese technology firm Huawei in 2022.

"With high technological and economic value, the material is considered core state technology and includes business secrets with large repercussions at the national level," the court said, reports Yonhap news agency.

"These types of crimes jeopardize the survivability of domestic companies and have a negative impact on the country's industrial competitiveness," it added.

During the initial trial last year, a district court had sentenced the defendant to 1 1/2 years in prison and a fine of 20 million won.

Meanwhile, South Korean stocks rose for the second consecutive session on Wednesday, driven by hopes for US-China trade negotiations. The local currency rose to a five-month high against the U.S. dollar.

The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) added 14.01 points, or 0.55 percent, to close at 2,573.80, following a 0.12 percent gain on Friday. The local financial market closed on Monday and Tuesday for the Children's Day and Buddha's Birthday holidays.

Trade volume was moderate at 538.5 million shares worth 8.79 trillion won (US$6.29 billion), with gainers closely outnumbering decliners 460 to 415.

Tech giant Samsung Electronics rose 0.55 percent to 54,600 won, and its chipmaking rival SK hynix advanced 2.58 percent to 190,800 won.

Top defence firm Hanwha Aerospace vaulted 8.8 percent to 890,000 won, and LIG Nex1 added 1.97 percent to 336,500 won. However, bio shares went south as leading pharma Celltrion dropped 1.29 percent to 160,300 won, and Samsung Biologics declined 4.06 percent to 1.04 million won.
Mumbai, May 7 : As the nation proceeds to next steps in the ongoing escalations, and possibly open diplomatic channels against its notorious neighbour Pakistan, veteran actor Anupam Kher has called for national unity, and to exercise caution.

On Wednesday, the actor took to his Instagram, and shared a video in which he spoke to the camera, and urged the countrymen to exercise restraint, and be careful while sharing information on social media.

He said, "Jai Hind, friends. Today, India has taken a decisive step under the leadership of our esteemed Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, and with the support of the Indian Army. Our country is a peaceful nation, yet it knows how to retaliate against its citizens and its brave soldiers with fierce terrorist attacks. Those days are gone, when we used to remain silent. But today, India has changed. We all know this. I am making this video as a responsible Indian citizen".

He further mentioned that this action is against terrorism, and is for self-defense and justice.

He shared, "In such circumstances, we also have some responsibilities, and it is very important for us to take care of some things. For example, No video, photo or message should be forwarded on social media without inspection. This spreads fear and confusion. No photo should be taken or shared in any army movements, bunkers or sensory places. No emergency services should be blocked. Call 100101102108 only in real emergencies. Stay away from high-risk areas, especially from border areas, until further instructions are received from the government. Only rely on government announcements and verified news sources".

The actor advised the citizens to stay away from rumours. He said that in case of an evacuation or curfew orders given by the government, the citizens must follow them immediately, and should keep emergency supplies ready, such as water, food, necessary medicines, torch, battery, radio and ID proof.

He added, "If you live in a border area, then keep information about the nearest bomb shelter or safe zone in advance. Help each other. Help the elderly, children and disabled people. If you see any unusual or suspicious behavior, immediately inform the police or security forces. This is the time to stay united, to show wisdom and to stand with the country. Our army is doing its job. Let us also do our duty".
Mumbai, May 7 : Actor Ayushmann Khurrana firmly stated that "Terrorism has no place in this world", showing his support to our armed forces after 'Operation Sindoor'.

The 'Dream Girl' actor penned on his Instagram account, "Terrorism has no place in this world," along with an icon of our tricolor. This was followed by a picture of 'Operation Sindoor' written in bold."

The entire film fraternity has been speaking in unison as they applaud the Indian Army for a strong reply against the terror attack in Pahalgam.

Proud Indian, Kamal Haasan mentioned, "A proud India stands united with its armed forces. This is the resolute response of a strong nation that will not be divided by cowardly acts of terror. I applaud the decisive and strategic military action taken by Government of India. Jai Hind."

Dhanush wrote on X, "Our country stands united against terror...Proud of our armed forces...Jai hind."

Thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi, actor Ajay Devgn penned on the micro-blogging site, "Saluting our Honourable Prime Minister Shri

@narendramodi and our Indian forces. India stands tall and strong. Jai Hind!."

Suniel Shetty shared, "Terror has no place. Zero Tolerance. Total Justice

#OperationSindoor."

Actor Vivek Oberoi wrote on social media, "Terror shall not prevail, India's spirit and power shall keep rising to reclaim the light and ensure such darkness never again stains our sacred soil. The world must stand united against the evil of terror. Let's not fall prey to propaganda that tries to divide us, this is not a war against any religion or nation, it's a war against terror".

"Operation Sindoor is a revenge for the tears of the widows of India and a stern warning to the terrorists that their evil deeds will no longer go unpunished", the 'Saathiya' actor added.

The Indian Armed Forces launched an attack against terrorism by targeting key terror hubs across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). Muridke, Bahawalpur, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir known for housing terror networks, were targeted by the Indian Armed forces during the surgical strike.
New Delhi, May 7 : India took centre-stage at the prestigious 'World Bank Land Conference 2025' in Washington, DC, reaffirming the country's global leadership in inclusive land governance and grassroots empowerment.

Participating as a 'Country Champion' in the plenary session, Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, articulated India's leadership in land rights, tenure reforms, and technology-driven spatial planning, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj said in a statement on Wednesday.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India's pioneering 'SVAMITVA' scheme (Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas) has emerged as a transformational initiative in rural land governance.

Bhardwaj emphasised that India has surveyed 68,000 square kilometres of rural land under 'SVAMITVA', unlocking $1.16 trillion worth of assets, thereby offering millions of rural families legal title, dignity, and access to credit and opportunity.

Through anecdotes of individuals like a dairy farmer in Madhya Pradesh who expanded his business, or a mother in Rajasthan who funded her daughter's overseas education, he highlighted how land ownership is being converted into real empowerment.

Bharadwaj shared deep insights into the scheme's journey -- beginning with onboarding states, amending state laws and survey rules, and establishing critical technological infrastructure like Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) to enable accurate drone-based mapping. He explained how India's federal structure requires strategic cooperation, coordination, and community involvement to drive reforms on a national scale.

The special event, scheduled for Wednesday (US time) and titled "Securing Land Rights for a Billion People," was set to further amplify India's model of inclusive and technology-driven land governance.

Led by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, the session will open with welcome and opening remarks by Dr Klaus W. Deininger, Lead Economist, World Bank, followed by an introduction by Somik V Lall, Senior Advisor, DECVP, World Bank.

The event will spotlight the design, impact, and scalability of the 'SVAMITVA' scheme, with presentation by Vivek Bharadwaj. An interactive Q&A session will follow, reflecting the growing global interest in India's transformative approach to rural land governance.

The side event will be attended by all delegates of the 'World Bank Land Conference 2025', including advisors and senior advisors to seven executive directors representing regions across Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), Central Asia, South Asia, and South East Asia, offering a valuable opportunity for cross-regional dialogue and exchange.

The event will provide a focused platform to discuss the implementation methodology and transformative benefits of the SVAMITVA Scheme with countries that share similar land administration systems.

The objective is to explore avenues for collaboration, enabling the Ministry of Panchayati Raj to support and partner with these nations in adopting and adapting similar models in their respective contexts.

On Thursday, the focus will be on 'Gram Manchitra' (India's advanced GIS-based spatial planning platform). Alok Prem Nagar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, will present how the platform is facilitating spatially informed decision-making at the Panchayat level, showcasing the integration of cutting-edge technology with grassroots governance to foster sustainable, resilient, and self-reliant villages.

Through its presence at the 'World Bank Land Conference 2025', India has been positioned as a global thought leader in land tenure reforms, rural development, and inclusive governance demonstrating that a data-driven, people-centric approach can effectively bridge centuries-old land insecurity and usher in a new era of legal recognition, dignity, and prosperity for rural citizens.
Chennai, May 7 : In a major step towards improving cancer detection and treatment in rural areas, the Tamil Nadu Health Department is set to launch an Organised Cancer Screening Programme across 12 districts.

The initiative, aimed at early diagnosis and timely medical intervention, will be implemented under the National Health Mission (NHM).

The pilot project will be rolled out in Thiruvallur, Kanchipuram, Vellore, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Dharmapuri, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Theni, Madurai, Tiruchy, and Karur districts, and the launch is tentatively scheduled for May 9, according to a senior health department official.

"The primary objective of the programme is to diagnose cancer at the earliest possible stage and provide necessary medical support to affected individuals," the official said.

He noted that district-level training sessions have already been conducted for healthcare personnel who will be deployed on the ground.

Explaining the rationale behind the initiative, the official pointed out that cancer diagnosis and treatment are currently concentrated in government and private hospitals, making them less accessible to people in remote areas.

"Many in rural regions may misinterpret symptoms or delay seeking treatment due to a lack of awareness or access. This programme aims to bridge that gap by bringing screening services directly to the village level," he added.

Through the screening camps, residents will be encouraged to undergo health checkups. Those exhibiting cancer-related symptoms will receive counselling and be referred to nearby government hospitals for further evaluation and treatment.

"This proactive approach will enable early detection and significantly improve the chances of successful treatment," the official emphasised.

The 12 districts were selected for the pilot phase based on the incidence of cancer cases reported in recent years. If successful, the programme is expected to be expanded to other districts in the state.

Health officials expressed confidence that the initiative would encourage more people, especially from underserved communities, to prioritise regular health screenings and seek medical care promptly. "This programme is a crucial step towards reducing cancer-related mortality in rural Tamil Nadu," the official said.

--IANS

aal/vd
New Delhi, May 7 : Pakistan Army is backed by its Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), which has been covertly supporting the activities of anti-India terrorist outfits, including Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), Hizbul Mujahideen (HM), among others and has systematically coordinated financial, logistics, doctrinal and military support to these outfits including providing direct combat trainings.

New Delhi, May 7 (IANS) Pakistan Army is backed by its Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), which has been covertly supporting the activities of antia"India terrorist outfits, including Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), Hizbul Mujahideen (HM), among others and has systematically coordinated financial, logistics, doctrinal and military support to these outfits including providing direct combat trainings.

Post Financial Action Task Force (FATF) sanctions, Pakistan military has tried to a give a cosmetic makeover to terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir by giving new slick labels - such as The Resistance Front (TRF), People Anti-Fascist Front (PAFF), Kashmir Tiger (KT), etc., to designated terrorist organisations such as LeT and JeM. Rebranding of these terror outfits has been done to avoid wrath of the global terror watchdogs and to depict terrorism as a home-grown indigenous resistance. Pakistani military officers pay regular visits to training camps of these terror outfits to supervise terrorist training sessions.

Terrorist groups such as LeT and JeM have been provided with infrastructure concealed in government facilities to carry out their operations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). Several training camps (Markaz), detachments and launch pads of these terror outfits are currently being run near army facilities, cantonments, Basic Health Units (BHU) and Primary Health Centers (PHC). Detachments such as Sarjal - Tehra Kalan (JeM), Mehmoona Joya - Sialkot (HM) are being operated in the campus of BHUs, providing necessary camouflage to activities of the terror groups.

Terrorist groups have been provided with military grade communication equipment such as Long Range (LoRa)/Ultra Sets, Digital Mobile Radio (DMR), etc. to by-pass technical monitoring. Amongst various other methods, Pakistan military is also strengthening Pak-TSPs signal across International Border (IB) and Line of Control (LoC) in order to use spill over to aid infiltrated terrorists. Detachments such as Sarjal - Tehra Kalan, houses High-frequency (HF) communication set-up for planning and coordination with infiltrated terrorists.

While detachments and launch pads are extensively used for staging arms training activities, religious indoctrination and other support activities such as funding, propaganda and expansion are being carried out with the backing of Pakistani establishment in larger facilities that are located well inside the country such as Markaz Taiba (LeT) in Muridke and Markaz Subhan Allah (JeM) in Bahawalpur. These Markaz not only serve as residences to major commanders of the outfits but also serve as epicentre for radicalization and various training courses on intelligence, arms handling, etc.

Additionally, the commanders of terrorist groups have used these facilities (Markaz) to deliver anti-India rhetoric to masses in order to motivate the recruits for Jihad against India like the hate speech delivered by JeM chief Masood Azhar in December 2024 in Bahawalpur's Markaz Subhan Allah.

Similarly, camps such as Markaz Abbas Kotli (JeM) and Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala (LeT) are being extensively used for indoctrination, scouting and as a base for planning terror activities including infiltration.

In addition to providing logistics, financial support and operational bases to terror outfits, Pakistan army is strategically facilitating training of terrorists. Terrorists of LeT, JeM and Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) are being trained by Pakistan Special Services Group (SSG) in jungle/guerilla warfare. Camps and detachments such as Syedna Bilal (JeM), Shawai Nalla in Muzaffarabad (LeT) and Maskar Raheel Shahid Kotli (HM) have been extensively used to impart arms training and physical conditioning to cadres of the terror outfits under the aegis of Pakistani army and ISI.

Here's a brief summary of some of the important terror facilities in Pakistan:

Markaz Subhan Allah, Bahawalpur: Operational since 2015, Markaz Subhan Allah is the main centre of JeM for training and indoctrination and serves as the terror organisation's operational headquarter. It is associated with terrorist planning by JeM including the Pulwama attack on February 14, 2019. The Markaz consists of residences of JeM Chief Maulana Masood Azhar, de-facto Chief of JeM Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar, Maulana Ammar and other family members of Masood Azhar. Masood Azhar has made several addresses from this facility extolling anti-India rhetoric and appealing to the youth to join Islamic Jihad. JeM conducts regular arms, physical and religious training for its cadres at Markaz Subhan Allah.

Markaz Taiba, Muridke: Established in the year 2000, Markaz Taiba is the 'alma mater' and the most important training centre of LeT located in Nangal Sahdan, Muridke, Sheikhupura, Punjab province. The complex holds arms and physical training facility, as well as dawaah and radicalisation/indoctrination for terror entities both from within Pakistan and abroad. This Markaz serves as a mushrooming ground for radicalisation of students to motivate them to join armed jihad. It can be compared to a terror factory. This Markaz enrols around 1000 students in different courses annually thereby highlighting the role of this Markaz in churning out terror entities for LeT annually. Osama Bin Laden had financed Rs 10 million for construction of a mosque and guest house within the Markaz Taiba complex. At the behest of Pakistan's ISI, all preparators of 26/11 Mumbai attack including Ajmal Kasab were imparted 'Daura-e-Ribbat' (intelligence training) at this facility. David Coleman Headley and Tahawwur Hussain Rana, the prime conspirators of 26/11 Mumbai attacks, had visited Muridke along with Abdul Rehman Sayed 'Pasha', Haroon and Khurram (co-conspirators) on instructions of Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi.

Sarjal Tehra Kalan: The Tehra Kalan Sarjal terror facility, located in the Shakargarh Tehsil of Narowal District in Punjab, is the main launching facility of JeM for infiltration of terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir. As part of concerted strategy of Pak-ISI to conceal terror infrastructure in government buildings, Sarjal facility is being operated from the premises of a Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Tehra Kalan Village of the area. This JeM facility holds special prominence due to its close proximity of around six kms from IB in Samba Sector of Jammu. This facility serves as the base for the digging of cross-border tunnels for infiltration of terrorists. It also serves as the launching base for

drones by which arms/ammunition/narcotics and warlike stores are dropped into the Indian territory. JeM terrorists Mohammad Adnan Ali 'Doctor' and Kashif Jan regularly visit this facility and JeM de-facto chief Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar supervises overall operations of this facility. This facility is actively being used by JeM to infiltrate terrorists and for smuggling arms and ammunition into India.

Mehmoona Joya facility, Sialkot: As another example of Pak-ISI establishing terror facilities in government buildings, Mehmoona Joya facility of Hizbul Mujahideen is located in premises of Bhutta Kotli Government Basic Health Unit in Head Marala area of Sialkot District of Punjab. This facility is used for infiltration of Hizbul cadres into Jammu region of J&K. Hizbul Mujahideen cadres are also given training for terrorist operations and handling of weapons by the senior commanders at this facility. Mohd Irfan Khan 'Tanda', the commander of this HM facility, has been involved in carrying out several attacks in the Jammu region, especially in the capital city of Jammu. Around 20a"25 terrorists are usually present at this facility at any point of time overseeing infiltration bids and terrorist operations in India.

Markaz Ahle Hadith Barnala, Bhimber: Located on the outskirts of Barnala town on Kote Jamel road is prominent Markaz of LeT in PoJK Ahle Hadith, which is used for infiltration of LeT terrorists and arms/ammunition into Poonch, Rajouri-Reasi sector. This Markaz is also used as a staging centre for LeT terrorists before infiltrating into Indian territory. It can accommodate 100-150 cadres. LeT terror operatives Qasim Gujjar 'Mahrore', Qasim Khanda and Anas Jarar operate from this Markaz and reside in its vicinity. Operational commanders of LeT visit this Markaz for organising and supervising terrorist activities of LeT/Jamaat-ud-Dawa/Jammu & Kashmir United Movement.

Markaz Abbas, Kotli: Markaz Saidna Hazrat Abbas Bin Abdul Mutalib (Markaz Abbas) is an important terror facility of JeM located in Kotli. Hafiz Abdul Shakoor Qari Zarrar, a 'Shura member' of JeM Council and close associate of JeM top commander Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar, is head of this Markaz. Qari Zarrar is directly involved in planning and execution of terrorist attacks in J&K and is wanted by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) of India. Markaz Abbas can accommodate around 100-125 JeM cadres. JeM's terror activities, including infiltration of cadres from the Pooncha"Rajouri sectors, are planned and executed from this facility.

Maskar Raheel Shahid, Kotli: Maskar Raheel Shahid, located in Kotli District, PoJK, is one of the oldest facilities of Hizbul Mujahideen. It can accommodate around 150a"200 terrorists. Hizbul terrorists visit this facility particularly for taking arms firing training and specialised physical training. In addition to providing conventional arms/physical training, this camp specialises in training cadres for BAT/sniping actions and fighting in hilly areas and survival training.

Shawai Nallah camp, Muzaffarabad: Also known as Bait-ul-Mujahideen, Shawai Nallah camp is located near Chelabandi bridge on Muzaffarabad-Neelum Road in Muzaffarabad, PoJK. It is one of the most important camps of LeT. Attackers of 26/11 Mumbai attack including Ajmal Kasab had received terrorist training here. This camp is used for recruitment, registration and training of LeT cadres and has been functional since early 2000. It is used as base camp for imparting Daura-e-Aam training, which includes religious indoctrination, physical training, tactical training regarding use of GPS, map reading and arms training for rifles and grenades. Shawai Nallah camp is also used from time-to-time to organise specialised weapons training for LeT cadres. Pak-ISI also facilitates by providing trainers of Pakistani Army to provide weapons training to LeT terrorists. It is a large training camp which can accommodate 200-250 LeT cadres at a time. This camp is also used as a staging camp for LeT terrorists before infiltrating into Indian territory. LeT terrorists camping here are sent to launching facilities located opposite North Kashmir.

Markaz Syedna Bilal: Markaz Syedna Bilal is the main centre of JeM in PoJK, located opposite the Red Fort in Muzaffarabad. This facility is used as a transit camp for JeM terrorists prior to their launching into J&K. At any point of time 50-100 cadres reside in this facility. JeM operational commander and JeM head of PoJK, Mufti Asghar Khan Kashmiri is in-charge of the facility. Abdullah Jehadi 'Kashmiri' and Aashiq Nengroo also operate from this centre. Commandos of Special Service Group (SSG) of Pak Army also impart training to JeM cadres at this facility.
Thiruvananthapuram, May 7 : In view of the increased tension between Indian and Pakistan, mock drills were held at 126 locations across the state, as per the directive of the Union Home Ministry.

Around 3 p.m., hundreds of people from the Civil, Defence, Police and the Kerala Fire Force were ready at malls, state and central government offices, flats, ISRO, the Kerala Assembly and numerous other places for the mock drills.

The Kerala government, with the help of the media, had made elaborate arrangements and right from Wednesday morning, public announcements were being made at malls and numerous other places that mock drills would be conducted and people should not be scared.

Exactly at 4 p.m., sirens went full blast, signalling the beginning of the mock drill.

Soon those inside flats and offices who were told beforehand that they should put off the lights, close the windows, draw the curtains, create a blackout and then move away to a safe place away from the windows, did exactly what they were told.

At a plush mall in the state capital city, at the designated time, soon after the siren was heard, the Fire Force rescue team arrived, and so did the health personnel. A rescue official was seen scaling the outside wall and reaching the terrace. At many places, people were seen being carried on stretchers, and after the preliminary medical aid, were soon shifted to ambulances and then driven away.

During the drill at the Ernakulam Collectorate office, a fire was seen emanating in the corridor, and in minutes, the rescue officials arrived and doused the fire.

The District Collector was seen giving the necessary direction when the fire was spotted.

A group of women staying in an apartment where the mock drill was conducted, said: "This is an awareness experience new to most of us. This is a learning experience and we all participated with a lot of interest and seriousness, as no one knows when this might be of use to all of us."

At 4.30 p.m., the mock drill came to an end.

Old timers recalled that earlier mock drills were conducted across the country in 1971.
Chennai, May 7 : In anticipation of a surge in travel demand due to the upcoming auspicious wedding dates and the Chitra Pournami festival, the Tamil Nadu State Transport Undertaking announced the operation of special bus services across the state from May 9 to May 12.

According to the Managing Director of the State Express Transport Corporation, a significant increase in passenger traffic is expected as people travel from Chennai to key destinations such as Tiruvannamalai, Tiruchy, Nagapattinam, Velankanni, Hosur, Bangalore, Erode, and Coimbatore.

To manage this rush, hundreds of special buses will supplement regular services across major routes.

From Chennaias Kilambakkam bus terminal, 650 special buses will be operated on May 9, followed by 665 buses on May 10.

Additionally, from Koyambedu terminal, 100 special buses will run on May 9 and 90 will run on May 10, catering to passengers travelling to various towns.

Special services have also been planned from Madhavaram, with 24 buses scheduled for May 9 and 100 for May 10.

Beyond Chennai, 250 additional buses will operate from cities such as Bengaluru, Coimbatore, Erode, and Tiruppur to meet the demand over the weekend.

For return journeys, around 950 special buses will bring passengers back to Chennai and Bengaluru on May 11 from various hometowns.

Advance booking data shows 11,841 travellers on May 9 (Friday), 7,385 on May 10 (Saturday), and 11,070 on May 11 (Sunday), with officials expecting these numbers to rise further.

The transport department has also made elaborate arrangements for the Chitra Pournami festival at Tiruvannamalai, which begins on the evening of May 11 and continues until the night of May 12.

More than 3,400 special buses will be operated to facilitate the movement of pilgrims.

From Kilambakkam alone, 1,156 buses will run on May 11 and 966 on May 12.

Special services will also operate from Madhavaram and other towns. To improve comfort for travelers, 40 air-conditioned seater-cum-sleeper buses will run from Kilambakkam on May 11 and 12.

People are encouraged to pre-book tickets via the official website, www.tnstc.in, or the TNSTC mobile app to avoid last-minute hassles. Transport officials will be deployed at key bus terminals to monitor operations and assist passengers.
Gurugram, May 7 : Three, including two Delhi-based doctors, allegedly duped Rs 26.57 lakh from a doctor for helping him to pass the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE).

The suspects are yet to be arrested, police said.

Based on a complaint filed by the victim, Ravi Kumar, a resident of Rajiv Nagar, Gurugram, an FIR was registered against all three accused under sections 420 (cheating) and 406 (criminal breach of trust) of the IPC at the Sector 14 police station on Monday, police said.

Kumar told the police he had completed his MBBS degree from the International Higher School of Medicine, University in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. After returning to India, he had to pass the FMGE exam, which is mandatory for foreign medical degree holders. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, he was on duty at the Burari Government Hospital in Delhi. During duty, he met Dr Abhishek Rajput, working in Max Hospital, Ghaziabad.

The complainant further said he had applied for the FMGE exam, and the paper was still pending. On this, Dr Abhishek said the FMGE exam was very difficult and hard to crack. He and his friend, Dr Siddhant, have a good reputation in the field. He assured Ravi that he would help him pass the exam and demanded money for the same.

"On July 4, 2022, I gave Rs 2.5 lakh in cash to Dr Abhishek in Sector 14, Gurugram, during a meeting. Following this, Dr Abhishek introduced me to Dr Siddhanta and his younger brother, Vastav Chaudhary, who were involved in helping me pass the exam. In January 2023, I transferred Rs 7 lakh to Dr Abhishek's account and gave him Rs 3 lakh in cash. With some other transactions, I had paid a total of Rs 26.57 lakhs to them. I appeared in the FMGE exam on January 20, 2023, and failed in the result that came on February 3, 2023. When I talked to Dr Abhishek, he sent me a fake certificate of passing. Later, I asked for money, and then Dr Abhishek threatened me," the complainant told the police.

"A fraud case has been registered against the accused trio, and the police are verifying the facts. They will be arrested soon," a spokesperson of the Gurugram Police said.
New Delhi, May 7 : India and the United Kingdom have signed a landmark free trade agreement (FTA), momentous not only in quantitative magnitude -- encompassing reductions across 90 per cent of tariff lines -- but also in its emblematic stature as a recalibration of post-globalisation economic strategy, an SBI report said on Wednesday.

The FTA signal a new global trade strategy, bypassing China's dependence, navigating US tariffs and reshaping post BREXIT Britain.

The FTA takes place in the backdrop of growing economic relations between India and the UK as exemplified in the bilateral trade of about $60 billion which is projected to double by 2030.

India's exports in FY25 outpaced a 6.1 per cent contraction in imports. The FTA, spanning goods, services, and technology, seeks to foster inclusive growth, resilient supply chains, and employment generation, according to the report by State Bank of India's Economic Research Department.

Liberalisation in the UK sectors such as IT, finance, education, and consumer goods unlocks labour-intensive export potential in Indian industries like textiles, toys, marine products, and auto components.

"While immigration policy remains static, the accord enables select professional mobility - around 1,800-2,000 visas annually for chefs, musicians, and yogisfusing economic pragmatism with cultural diplomacy," said the report.

Milestone features include expanded access to telecom and renewables, digital trade facilitation, emphasis on green goods, reciprocal social security arrangements, and UK access to Indian public procurement as class-2 suppliers.

Concurrently, India advances negotiations with the EU, Australia, Peru, Sri Lanka, and Oman, and reviews existing pacts with South Korea and ASEAN  signalling a broader strategic reconstitution of its global trade architecture.

"India-UK FTA is not merely a transactional accord but a dialectical moment in the evolution of twenty-first-century trade philosophywhere national interest and moral purpose converge in a new synthesis of strategic liberalism," the report noted.

India has signed 13 FTAs with its trading partners. The country is currently negotiating the following FTAs with its trading partners: India-EU FTA, India Australia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA), India-Peru Trade Agreement, covering goods, services and investment, India-Sri Lanka Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreement (ETCA) and India-Oman FTA.

Moreover, India has also initiated review of its existing FTAs, namely, India-South Korea Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), and ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA).
Chennai, May 7 : Actor and producer Dhanush and music director Ilaiyaraaja are the latest film celebrities to hail Operation Sindoor, the Indian Armed Forces' historic strike on terror camps in Pakistan.

While Dhanush said that the country stood united against terror, Ilaiyaraaja quoted a popular Tamil phrase to put across the point that the people would follow the leader in the path he chooses.

Taking to his X timeline, Dhanush said, "Our country stands united against terror. Proud of our armed forces. Jai hind YY. #OperationSindoor."

Ilaiyaraaja, in Tamil, wrote, "Mannan Evazhiyo, makkal Avazhiyae. (The people take the same path their king takes) #OperationSindoor"

Ilaiyaraaja and Dhanush are the latest among several film celebrities to have hailed Operation Sindoor.

Earlier in the day, Telugu Star Nani voiced his support for Operation Sindoor. He took to his X timeline to write, "Jai hind YY #OperationSindoor." In fact, several top stars in all the four south Indian film industries have expressed appreciation for the Indian Armed forces for carrying out the operation.

Prominent among those who voiced their opinion are actors Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Chiranjeevi, Mammootty, Mohanlal and Prakash Raj.

For the unaware, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, hitting at terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed.

The Indian army's strong response comes in the wake of the terrible and dastardly attack by Pakistan-backed terrorists on tourists in Pahalgam in Kashmir which left 25 Indians and one Nepali national dead.

Stating that nine sites that were being used by terrorists had been targeted, the Indian Army said that its actions had been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature.

It also pointed out that no Pakistani military facilities had been targeted and that India had demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution.
New Delhi, May 7 : Ten per cent of the world's richest individuals have a higher carbon footprint than the poorest 50 per cent, leading to climate extremes such as heat waves and droughts, according to a study on Wednesday.

The study, published in the journal Nature Climate Change, that the world's wealthiest 10 per cent are responsible for two-thirds of observed global warming since 1990.

"Our study shows that extreme climate impacts are not just the result of abstract global emissions, instead we can directly link them to our lifestyle and investment choices, which in turn are linked to wealth," explains lead author Sarah Schongart, from the ETH Zurich in Switzerland.

"We found that wealthy emitters play a major role in driving climate extremes, which provides strong support for climate policies that target the reduction of their emissions," she added.

An international team of researchers from Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and Australia assessed the contribution of the highest emitting groups within societies.

The findings showed that the top 1 per cent of the wealthiest individuals globally contributed 26 times the global average to increases in monthly 1-in-100-year heat extremes globally and 17 times more to Amazon droughts.

The research sheds new light on the links between income-based emissions inequality and climate injustice, illustrating how the consumption and investments of wealthy individuals have had disproportionate impacts on extreme weather events.

"If everyone had emitted like the bottom 50 per cent of the global population, the world would have seen minimal additional warming since 1990," says co-author Carl-Friedrich Schleussner, who leads the Integrated Climate Impacts Research Group at International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis in Austria.

The impacts are especially severe in vulnerable tropical regions like the Amazon, Southeast Asia, and southern Africa -- areas historically known to have contributed the least to global emissions.

The study also emphasises the importance of emissions embedded in financial investments, rather than just personal consumption.

The researchers argued that targeting the financial flows and portfolios of high-income individuals could yield substantial climate benefits.
Jaipur, May 7 : Acting on the directives of the Ministry of Home Affairs, several cities in Rajasthan, including the state capital Jaipur, conducted large-scale mock drills on Wednesday to test wartime civil defence mechanisms.

Also, air strike simulation exercises were conducted in Jaipur after over 50 years, while a high alert was issued in border districts as well.

These simulated air strike response exercises were carried out in key urban and border areas, including Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Bikaner, Dausa, Alwar, Sikar, Sirohi, Kota, Barmer, Jaisalmer, Bharatpur, Rawatbhata, and Sri Ganganagar. In fact, air strike drill was held in Jaipur after five decades.

Officials confirmed that for the first time in nearly 50 years, Jaipur witnessed an air strike simulation -- a preparedness effort not seen since the 1971 India-Pakistan War.

The mock drill took place at the BSNL office on MI Road, with a warning siren sounding at the Rajasthan Secretariat to alert staff and citizens. The District Collector received a simulated air strike alert via hotline, triggering immediate action to relocate citizens to designated safe zones.

Government employees at the Secretariat were also trained on emergency evacuation and rescue protocols. A similar mock drill was conducted at 4 p.m. in Kota, which, along with Rawatbhata, has been marked as a high-sensitivity zone by the Central government due to its strategic importance.

Civil defence teams, police personnel, and fire brigade units participated in the exercise.

Officials provided hands-on training on rescue and relief operations, ensuring teams are well-prepared to respond swiftly during emergencies.

Also, heightened security measures are being observed in Barmer and Jaisalmer, both sharing an international border with Pakistan.

Markets in Barmer were temporarily closed as air raid sirens were sounded and announcements were made via loudspeakers, urging public cooperation.

In Jaisalmer, similar sirens were activated to simulate an air strike scenario.

The drills aimed to test community response time and administrative coordination under threat conditions.

Amid the heightened security alert, the administration has imposed a complete ban on drone operations in Sri Ganganagar, Anupgarh and Bikaner.

Officials said that unauthorised drone activity could interfere with emergency response systems and pose a threat to national security.

The ban has been enforced with immediate effect.

These drills are part of a broader strategy to assess India's civil and defense readiness in the event of cross-border conflict.

The state government, police, and civil defence departments remain on high alert, ensuring Rajasthanas preparedness to handle any national security emergency.
Chandigarh, May 7 : Warning Pakistan against trying to escalate the conflict, BJP leader and former Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Wednesday hailed the Indian defence forces' precision strikes on terror camps inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Reacting to the strikes, Singh observed that "the action was overdue, as Pakistan had not been desisting from exporting terror into our country".

He pointed out that just two weeks ago, 26 innocent people were killed in Pahalgam by "Pakistan-trained terrorists".

The former Punjab Chief Minister, himself a former army officer, congratulated the defence forces for exercising utmost restraint by specifically targeting the terror camps inside Pakistan and PoK.

He pointed out that there was no targeting of civilian or military installations. He warned Pakistan against escalating the conflict, lest it lead to its doom.

He condemned the Pakistan Army's attack on civilian areas, resulting in the death of several people in the border town of Poonch in Jammu and Kashmir.

Amarinder clarified that India does not want any escalation.

"The country had made it categorically clear that it would not let those responsible for the Pahalgam terror attack go unpunished. They have been punished, as has been admitted by the Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorist, who, though he escaped himself, lost several members of his family," he said.

This, the former Chief Minister observed, proved how precise the Indian defence forces were in hitting their targets without any civilian or military casualties.

"Our target was the terrorist training camps, and we have hit them hard and that is it," he remarked.

In the early hours of May 7, India launched precision strikes targeting nine high-value terror camps across Pakistan and PoK.

The air and missile strikes focused only on terror infrastructure linked with internationally designated groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. Care was taken to avoid civilian casualties or damage to Pakistanas military assets, underlining Indiaas commitment to strategic restraint even in retaliation.
Tehran, May 7 : Iran's Foreign Ministry has rejected allegations made by the UK Home Office and certain British parliamentarians following the arrest of several Iranian nationals over terrorism charges, state media reported on Wednesday.

The British Police arrested the suspects in separate operations from different parts of the United Kingdom.

Alireza Yousefi, the Director General for the Western Europe department at Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, warned about the "negative consequences" of the "baseless accusations" and urged London to immediately inform the legal basis for detention of the Iranian nationals and to facilitate consular visits without delay, country's official news agency IRNA reported.

Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran is ready to provide assistance to Britain in its investigation on seven Iranian nationals arrested over allegations of "terrorism" if misconduct on their part is credibly established.

"Disturbed to learn that Iranian citizens have reportedly been arrested by UK security services. If credible allegations of misconduct are established, Iran stands ready to assist investigations. We call on the UK to ensure respect for our citizens' rights and afford them due process," Araghchi posted on X.

The UK's counter-terrorism police arrested eight men, including seven Iranian nationals, during multiple raids carried out across different parts of the country as confirmed by the Metropolitan Police on Sunday.

According to the authorities, five individuals -- four of whom are Iranian nationals -- were taken into custody on Saturday on suspicion of terrorism offences linked to an alleged plot to target specific premises.

The arrests took place in Swindon, west London, Stockport, Rochdale, and Manchester. The fifth suspect, whose identity was not confirmed, had been reportedly released on bail under strict conditions.

In a separate operation on the same day, three other Iranian nationals were arrested in London as part of another counter-terrorism investigation, the Metropolitan Police said in a separate statement.

Meanwhile, addressing the House of Commons on Tuesday, Britainas Minister for Security Dan Jarvis described the arrests as some of the largest counter-state threats and counter-terrorism actions that Britain have seen in recent times.

"What now follows is an incredibly complex set of investigations, involving hundreds more officers carrying out forensic searches, collecting vital evidence across different sites across the country and securing witness statements, backed up by the continued efforts of our security and intelligence agencies," he stated

"At this stage in the operations and investigations, it would not be appropriate for me to speculate on or comment further on the details of these two cases and the motivations behind any of the threats that were posed. Let me be clear: anyone in the UK who works for the Iranian state must declare it or they will be committing a serious criminal offence. We will also go after the criminal networks and enablers that Iran uses to carry out its work," the minister said.

Since 2022, British authorities have thwarted more than 20 such plots and have imposed sanctions on a Swedish-based criminal network allegedly connected to Iran. This group has been accused of targetting Israeli and Jewish interests across Europe.
Mumbai, May 7 : As part of Operation Sindoor, Indian Forces attacked the Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur, leaving 10 members of Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar's family dead.

Mumbai, May 7 (IANS) As part of Operation Sindoor, Indian Forces attacked the Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur,A leaving 10 members of Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar's family dead.

Sharing a video of the Masjid post the surgical strike, actor Vijay Varma wrote, "Taste your own medicine." However, it feels like not everyone agreed with Vijay's point of view.

Replying to those, the 'Darlings' actor shared a note on his Instagram stories stating that Masood Azhar deserves an even harsher punishment for what he has done.

"For those who are triggered by the previous story.. Masood Azhar needs an even harsher punishment if there is. Hardened criminal. F**ker escaped justice back in 1999 with IC814 hijacking," Vijay's note read.

According to a statement attributed to Masood Azhar, the ones killed in the attack on Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur included his elder sister and her husband, a nephew and his wife, another niece, and five children from his extended family. The JeM chief also confirmed the demise of one of his close associates, his mother, and two other close companions during the attack by the Indian Armed Forces.

It must be noted that Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur served as JeMas central facility for command.

Masood Azhar is believed to be behind several terror attacks, including the Parliament attack, the terror strike at Pathankot airbase, and the 2019 suicide attack that led to the death of 40 CRPF personnel in South Kashmir.

He was among the three terrorists released by Indian authorities after the 1999 Kandahar hijacking of an Indian Airlines plane.

After being released, Masood Azhar went to Pakistan and came up with a new terrorist organisation, Jaish-e-Mohammed.

During the wee hours of May 7, the Indian Army attacked several terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir as part of Operation Sindoor.

The Indian army's attack was in response to the horrific Pahalgam attack on April 22.
Mumbai, May 7 : Turkish-German filmmaker Fatih Akin is all set to serve a delectable cinematic treat. The teaser for his upcoming film 'Amrum' has debuted ahead of the film's world premiere in the Cannes Premiere section of the Cannes Film Festival.

Beta Cinema is handling world sales, with Warner Bros. distributing the film in Germany and Dulac Distribution in France, reports 'Variety'.

The film is set on Amrum Island, off the coast of Germany, in spring 1945. In the final days of the war, 12-year-old Nanning braves the treacherous sea to hunt seals, goes fishing at night, and works on the nearby farm to help his mother feed the family.

Despite the hardship, life on the beautiful, windswept island almost feels like paradise. But when peace finally comes, it reveals a deeper threat: the enemy is far closer than he imagined.

As per 'Variety', the film is based on the childhood of German actor, writer and director Hark Bohm, who wrote the original screenplay, which was then re-written and directed by Akin.

In a statement, Akin spoke about the cinematic influences on the film. "The films that came to mind when Hark first told me the story were 'Bicycle Thieves' and 'Shoeshine' by Vittorio De Sica", he said. "The scenes where Nanning searches for driftwood at night made me think of 'The Night of the Hunter' by Charles Laughton. The whole film was supposed to breathe the spirit of 'Stand by Me' by Rob Reiner. Thus, my cinematic upbringing became the first personal connection to the film".

Jasper Billerbeck stars alongside Laura Tonke, Lisa Hagmeister, Kian Koppke, Lars Jessen, Detlev Buck, Jan Georg Schutte, Matthias Schweighofer and Diane Kruger. The producers are Akin and Herman Weigel.

The film is produced by Bombero International and Warner Bros. Film Productions Germany, in co-production with Rialto Film. Karl Walter Lindenlaub is director of photography, and Andrew Bird is the editor.
Mumbai, May 7 : Former defence minister and NCP-SP president Sharad Pawar on Wednesday spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and congratulated the efforts of the Indian Armed Forces for successfully carrying out 'Operation Sindoor' in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

In a post on social media platform X, Pawar wrote, "Spoke with PMO and Raksha Mantri. Congratulated the efforts of the Indian Armed Forces and commended them for the action taken. We reiterated our support to the government during this challenging time."

Earlier, he said, "Every Indian has full faith in the Indian Army, which protects India's sovereignty by taking bullets to its chest. Today, proving that same faith, the Indian Air Force avenged the terrorist attack in Pahalgam by carrying out successful air strikes on nine terrorist locations at around 1:30 a.m. In this operation, nine terrorist targets were targeted in a precise and planned manner without harming any Pakistani civilians or Pakistani military positions. The entire country is proud of this heroic feat of the Indian Army. Heartfelt congratulations to all the Indian soldiers who maintained India's sovereignty and the security of its citizens and gave a befitting reply to the Pahalgam attack! Jai Hind!"

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in a post on X said, "By launching 'Operation Sindoor', India accomplished the task of eliminating cowardly terrorists! Hearty congratulations to the Indian Army for giving a strong and befitting reply to Pakistan for the Pahalgam attack, and many thanks to Hon'ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji!"

NCP working president and MP Praful Patel remarked, "Our sisters' sindoor was destroyed in the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Now, through 'Operation Sindoor', the Indian Army has restored the honour of these sisters!"

The Shiv Sena UBT chief, Uddhav Thackeray, in his reaction, said that the attack on terrorist camps is a matter of pride. He wrote in a post on X, "The army took revenge by eliminating the terrorists. Now, it is necessary to destroy Pakistan's sleeper cells in India," he observed.
Kolkata, May 7 : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday cautioned against the circulation of fake news or fake information that might aggravate internal tensions in the wake of 'Operation Sindoor' crushing terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir.

The Chief Minister said that her administration would take strong action against offenders in the matter.

"If anyone gives fake news through any channel or Facebook, or YouTube, action will be taken against the persons concerned," Chief Minister Banerjee said at a brief media interaction on Wednesday, where she refused to entertain any questions from media persons.

Chief Minister Banerjee also refused to divulge anything about the meeting Union Home Minister Amit Shah had with the Chief Ministers of states having International Borders, which she also attended, considering that West Bengal has International Borders with Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal.

"I will not speak anything on the proceedings of the meeting. I also request you not to ask me any questions today. All I can say is that this is not the time to spread wrong information. This is the time to present factually correct information or news. So I request all to refrain from spreading information based on speculations or rumours," Chief Minister Banerjee said.

Chief Minister Banerjee also requested media channels to refrain from broadcasting television debates in the wake of the current situation in the country.

"Any wrong information spread by the statements of those participating in such debates might also aggravate tension. If tension or violence aggravates because of anyone's statements, that person should be held responsible," Mamata Banerjee said.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister also expressed apprehension about the possibilities of traders and businesses taking advantage of the current situation and thus artificially jacking up prices of food items in the retail markets.

"Tomorrow we will have a meeting on this issue. All necessary steps will be taken to prevent artificial jacking up of prices of food items," the Chief Minister said.
New Delhi, May 7 : External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Wednesday spoke with the foreign ministers of Japan, Qatar, Spain, France and Germany, discussing India's strikes on Pakistan-based terror camps earlier in the day.

EAM Jaishankar's conversation with Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi lasted for approximately 15 minutes during which he appreciated Japan's strong condemnation of the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack in which 26 innocent civilians were gunned down by four terrorists, two of them belonging to Pakistan.

"Iwaya extended his sincere condolences to the victims of the terrorist attack in Kashmir and expressed his deepest sympathy to those who were injured in the attack," the Japanese Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

"Iwaya stated that Japan is deeply concerned that the recent series of events could lead to further reprisals and escalate into a full-scale military conflict and urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and stabilize the situation through dialogue for the peace and stability in South Asia. In response, Minister Jaishankar explained India's position on the situation," the statement added.

The conversation took place after the Indian armed forces launched 'Operation Sindoor', targetting nine high-value terror locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the dastardly April 22 terror attack.

EAM Jaishankar also spoke to the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Qatar Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani over phone, discussing India's stance in the fight against cross-border terrorism.

"Good to speak to PM and FM Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani of Qatar. Discussed India's targetted and measured response to deter cross-border terrorism," EAM posted on X.

India's firm and measured response to cross-border terrorism was also discussed during the phone call between EAM Jaishankar and Foreign Minister of Spain Jose Manuel Albares.

Earlier, EAM also held a joint telephonic conversation with the Foreign Ministers of France and Germany, discussing the zero tolerance approach for terrorism while acknowledging the support of both countries following the Pahalgam terror attack.

"Had a joint telecon with Foreign Minister of France Jean-Noel Barrot and Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul of Germany. Appreciated their solidarity and support in the wake of the Pahalgam terrorist attack. Discussed ensuring zero tolerance for terrorism," the EAM posted on X.

The tri-services 'Operation Sindoor' conducted jointly by the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and Indian Navy was launched in the early hours of Wednesday. It targetted infrastructure linked to terror groups responsible for the April 22 terror attack.

The Indian government on Wednesday said that India has exercised its right to respond to dastardly acts of terror emanating from the neighbouring nation.

Addressing the media, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, along with Colonel Sophia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, said that India's response to Pahalgam attacks was measured, calibrated and non-escalatory.

Real-time surveillance and post-strike assessments confirmed the destruction of the intended targets as 'Operation Sindoor' marked one of India's most assertive cross-border military responses since the Balakot airstrikes in 2019.
Bengaluru, May 7 : The Karnataka government has issued orders to conduct special prayers in temples across the state to celebrate the success of Operation Sindoor.

Minister for Transport and Muzrai, Ramalinga Reddy, said on Wednesday in Bengaluru that he has directed temples across the state to hold special prayers to celebrate the success of Operation Sindoor.

The Commissioner of Hindu Religious Institutions and the Endowment Department has issued a circular in this regard. The circular states, "The Indian armed forces have successfully carried out attacks on terrorist camps under the name Operation Sindoor to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack."

Minister Ramalinga Reddy also conveyed his appreciation to the Indian armed forces. Commending the soldiers for the strikes, the circular orders that special prayers be held in the name of Indian soldiers, praying for the strength and well-being of the Indian Army, in all temples under the Muzrai Department in Karnataka.

The circular further states that the Minister's directions must be followed strictly and without fail.

Minister Reddy said, "We have always taken pride in the Indian armed forces. Similar operations were carried out during the tenures of former Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru. The Indian Army has also fought wars against China."

He added that such an operation should have been carried out during the Pulwama attack in 2019, which resulted in the death of 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel.

Special arrangements have been made for prayers for the well-being and strength of the Indian Army. These will be held at the historic Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple in Bengaluru between 8.30 a.m. and 9 a.m., and at the famous Banashankari Temple in Bengaluru between 10.30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Sumathi, the mother of Manjunath Rao, a businessman from Shivamogga, who was killed in the Pahalgam terror attack, responded to the development, stating: "We don't want innocent people to die, and families should not suffer. Those who create unrest without reason should not be spared. They must be dealt with firmly to ensure our country remains safe and prosperous."

She added, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken an appropriate decision. Anything done in haste goes to waste. We take so much time even for small decisions, so taking time to strike Pakistan was right. The central government acted at the correct time."

"They should not attack Indians without cause. My son is gone and will not return. Let other parents' children remain safe, let them visit Kashmir and return safely. The Pahalgam incident must not be repeated. No family should go through the pain we endured," Sumathi stated.
Guwahati, May 7 : Civil defence mock drills were conducted in eight states across the northeastern region, including several capital cities of the states, following the success of Operation Sindoor.

The mock exercises were conducted in 52 districts of eight northeastern states following the success of 'Operation Sindoor' conducted by India's Armed forces targeting terrorist camps across the border in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK).

The mock drills were conducted on the directive of the MHA as part of heightened security measures following the April 22 terror attack in Kashmir's Pahalgam, in which 26 innocent civilians, mostly tourists, were killed.

Of the 52 districts, the exercises were carried out in 15 districts in Assam, followed by 10 districts in Nagaland, eight in Tripura, seven in Meghalaya, five each in Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur and one each district in Mizoram and Sikkim.

Officials said that in the mock exercises, District Administrations, police, Civil Defence, Fire Department, State and National Disaster Response Force, Health and Power Departments, educational institutions and Information and Public Relations Directorates were involved. Thousands of men and women in every place gathered to witness the mock drills.

In Assam, in line with the directive issued by the MHA, a large-scale civil defence mock drill was conducted on Wednesday at the premises of the 10th Assam Police Battalion (APBn), Kahilipara in Guwahati.

An Assam police spokesman said that organised by the Director General of Civil Defence, Assam, in collaboration with District Administration, Kamrup (Metro), multiple emergency response agencies and security forces participated in the exercises.

He said that the exercise was designed to test inter-agency coordination, rapid emergency response, and systems in place to address war-like scenarios.

The highlight of the event was an "Air Raid Simulation Exercise", which focused on aerial threat response, mitigation strategies, civilian evacuation, and damage control measures.

The simulation was conducted under realistic conditions to enhance the operational readiness of both civil and security establishments.

Deba Prasad Misra, Secretary, Home and Political Department, emphasising the importance of preparedness, said, "Such mock drills are crucial for equipping both agencies and the public with the knowledge and confidence needed to respond swiftly in the event of disasters such as war or external aggression."

A comprehensive Civil Defence Mock Drill also took place at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBIA) in Guwahati on Wednesday. This drill was part of the ongoing efforts undertaken by the MHA to enhance emergency preparedness and inter-agency coordination in the event of a civil emergency.

In Manipur, key activities of the drill included air raid warning sirens, public safety announcements, emergency response activations, blackout simulations, search and rescue operations, and medical emergency setups.

Civilians also received training on essential safety measures to enhance preparedness during hostile situations.

In Tripura, after the mock drill was completed, District Magistrate of the West Tripura district, Vishal Kumar, said the mock drill was conducted with personnel from 17 departments associated with disaster management, over 500 common people, including political and social volunteers.

While stating that tremendous general enthusiasm, determination, unity and commitment of nationalistic spirit were seen among the participants on Wednesday, he said.

He said, "If any situation of an earthquake or air attack happens, our common people and the administrations are fully prepared and aware."

However, Kumar said "some shortcomings" were found in general awareness and that the government is working to improve upon it through community mobilisation.
Jaipur, May 7 : The Supreme Court (SC) on Wednesday rejected the Special Leave Petition (SLP) of Baran Anta MLA, Kanwarlal Meena of the BJP, and directed him to surrender before the trial court within two weeks.

Meena was earlier sentenced to three years in prison for pointing a pistol at an SDM and destroying government property during a 2005 incident.

A SC bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and Sanjay Karol heard the case. Meenaas lawyer, Namit Saxena, argued that no revolver had been recovered and therefore, the charge of using criminal force could not be sustained. He also pointed out that the alleged video cassette, said to have been broken and burned, was never recovered.

However, the bench rejected all arguments, upholding the findings of the lower courts.

On May 1, the Rajasthan High Court upheld the conviction by the Appellate Court (ADJ, Aklera, Jhalawar), which had found Meena guilty of obstructing government work, intimidating officials, and damaging public property.

According to the Representation of the People Act, 1951, any lawmaker sentenced to more than two years in prison is disqualified from the legislature. With the High Court upholding his sentence, Meenaas legislative membership is under threat.

Following the High Court's ruling, the Congress party approached the Assembly Secretary demanding action. A notice was then issued to Meena, requiring him to submit a SCt stay order by 12 noon on May 7.

In response, Meena's counsel mentioned the matter before the SC, which had earlier granted a temporary stay on his surrender on May 5, but did not stay the High Courtas entire judgment.

The case relates to an incident on February 3, 2005, near the Dangipura-Rajgarh turn in Jhalawar, where villagers had blocked the road demanding re-polling for the Khatakhedi Deputy Sarpanch elections. Officials, including then SDM Ramnivas Mehta, IAS probationer Pritam B Yashwant, and Tehsildar Ramkumar, had reached the spot to control the situation.

Around half an hour later, Kanwarlal Meena arrived with his associates and allegedly pointed a pistol at the SDM, threatening to kill him if recounting was not announced.

When the SDM refused, Meena allegedly snatched and destroyed a video cassette and temporarily took away a digital camera from Pritam, returning it after 20 minutes.

Meena was acquitted by the trial court in 2018, but the Appellate Court overturned that decision, convicting him. In rejecting Meenaas appeal, the High Court noted that he had identified himself as a political figure during the incident and was expected to uphold law and order, not undermine it.

The court also pointed to his criminal background, noting that while he had been acquitted in most of the 15 criminal cases filed against him earlier, such a history could not be ignored.
VALLETTA, May 6 (Xinhua) -- The 20th Chinese medical team from the Mediterranean Regional Centre for Traditional Chinese Medicine (MRCTCM) provided free clinical services to residents at the Swieqi Local Council in eastern Malta on Tuesday.

The event began with a lecture by Tang Limei, a member of the medical team, who introduced Baduanjin, a traditional form of Chinese aerobic exercise known for its health benefits. Following Tang's demonstration, attendees enthusiastically took part in the practice.

After the lecture, the medical team offered a range of services, including blood pressure and blood sugar checks, personalized health consultations, and the distribution of free medical supplies.

"I found the event very interesting," said 72-year-old Christine Cuschieri. "Practicing Baduanjin is not only good for older people but also beneficial for the younger people. I plan to continue practicing it at home. I'm sure it will be very helpful."

"I would love to see more events like this," said 79-year-old Marie Louise. "It was very good and helpful." Louise, who previously received acupuncture at Malta's state-run Mater Dei Hospital, said she is considering trying the treatment again to relieve neck pain.

Josette Mifsud, 73, described the event as a "new experience." "We really enjoyed the Baduanjin exercises. It was very beneficial," she said. It was her first time learning about traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and she expressed hope to continue practicing at home. She also suggested that more local councils consider organizing similar events due to their value for public health.

The MRCTCM was established by the Chinese and Maltese governments in 1994. To date, 20 Chinese medical teams comprising over 100 doctors, have provided TCM treatments to approximately 250,000 Maltese patients.
Kolar, May 7 : Karnataka BJP chief and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra claimed on Wednesday that the Indians have pledged to stand with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and with the armed forces of the country.

"PM Modi has taken bold steps to act against the terrorists responsible for the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 people. The people of India and the BJP have pledged to stand with PM Modi and the armed soldiers," said Vijayendra while addressing a protest rally organised as part of the BJP's 'Janakrosh Yatra' against the Congress government.

Vijayendra appealed to BJP workers and the public across the state to visit their local temples and offer prayers.

"Let us pray for strength for our soldiers. May all the nations of the world bless PM Modi with even greater strength," he said.

He urged people to pray for divine power to uproot the terrorists and their hideouts completely, adding that the fight against the anti-people, anti-farmer, anti-poor, and anti-Hindu Congress government must continue until it is overthrown.

"At this time, the whole country, every Indian, must come together and show unity in supporting our soldiers. All political parties, including the Congress, must send a clear message of unity to the world," he stated.

He added that Pakistan must not dare look toward India in the future, adding that the terrorists should never rise again.

"We must extend our full support to this end," he said, reiterating that for the BJP, the nation always comes first.

He again made a heartfelt appeal to morally strengthen the soldiers.

Referring to BJP founder Syama Prasad Mukherjee, Vijayendra recalled his words: "Ek desh mein do nishan, do pradhan nahi chalega" (In one country, there cannot be two constitutions or two prime ministers).

"Mukherjee's firm wish was to see the Indian flag flying in J&K. He sacrificed his life for that ideal. Today, our proud PM Modi has vowed to bring an end to such terrorist activities," he added.

Vijayendra claimed that due to the Congress party's "double standards" and "anti-national" policies, the terrorists have been emboldened to act with impunity.

He criticised that these very policies of the Congress led to thousands of Hindus in J&K being displaced from their homes, and also caused the loss of thousands of soldiers' lives.

He further said that the bold leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has brought great strength to our soldiers. He expressed confidence that the soldiers will surely succeed in the fight against terrorists and against Pakistan.
Thiruvananthapuram, May 7 : There seems to be no respite for the now-suspended IAS officer N. Prasanth, as the weekly cabinet meeting on Wednesday decided to extend his suspension for another six months.

The 2007-batch IAS officer was suspended in November last year after he made serious allegations against senior bureaucrats, including Additional Chief Secretary A. Jayathilak (1991-batch), IAS officer K. Gopalakrishnan (2013-batch), and the recently retired Chief Secretary Muraleedharan.

Incidentally, Wednesday was the first cabinet meeting that Jayathilak attended after taking over from Muraleedharan on April 30.

Prasanth, while being the Kozhikode district collector, had won the hearts of many through his actions and is one who has a massive following on social media.

The controversy over his suspension in November last year was centred around an enquiry report allegedly prepared by Jayathilak, which accused Prasanth of being responsible for missing documents linked to the Unnathi project during his tenure as CEO, irregularities in his attendance records, and violations of service conduct, including making derogatory social media posts.

However, Prasanth has maintained that the case against him has been built on unreliable digital evidence and lacks procedural and legal merit.

He also targeted Jayathilak and Gopalakrishnan for his suspension.

Another action of Prasanth which has irked the higher-ups is his frequent statements through his social media page, and even the personal hearing that he had with Muraleedharan was also made public by him.

His demand for live streaming of his hearing with Muraleedharan was turned down, and after his hearing was over, he wrote in his social media, "I brought to their attention my promotion which has been hanging fire since 2022, as the rule states promotion issues should be settled in a matter of six months. I want to get my promotion, and each file should not turn out to be one where one's life is at stake," he said.

"To initiate action against the FB post I made is foolhardy and against the All India Service rules, and to commence another probe should not be done," he added.

"A case should be registered against Jayathilak, Gopalakrishnan and Mathurbhumi newspaper for conspiring against me and for making fake documents.

"The rule of law is also applicable to the Government, and it should not behave in a manner that those aggrieved can resort to legal redress. This does not augur well for governance. Till now, I have not filed any case against the government, and please do not open an avenue for that," he added.

"My appeal is that there need be no hurry to revoke my suspension without addressing all these issues which I have raised," wrote Prasanth.

Now with the government extending his suspension by another six months, all eyes are on what his next move would be, as he has already pointed out that he is not very particular that he should be an IAS officer till he retires.
Los Angeles, May 7 : Hollywood megastar Tom Cruise recently attended the Japanese premiere of his upcoming movie 'Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning' in Tokyo., and expressed his gratitude to the Japanese audience.

Los Angeles, May 7 (IANS) Hollywood megastar Tom Cruise recently attended the Japanese premiere of his upcoming movie 'Mission: Impossible  The Final Reckoning' in Tokyo., and expressed his gratitude to the Japanese audience.

He was joined at the event by Greg Tarzan Davis, Hayley Atwell, director Christopher McQuarrie, Simon Pegg, and Pom Klementieff. The film, which marks the final chapter of the franchise (as per Cruise), is set to release in Japan on May 23. Notably, this visit marked Cruise's 25th trip to Japan.

Tom Cruise said, "What an honor to begin our global tour in Tokyo, my 25th visit to this incredible city. This film is a true culmination of this franchise, and the love shown by audiences tonight was felt by all".

In the new film, Ethan Hunt embarks on his most risky, highly intimate and visually complex mission to date, one that threatens not only international security but even his existence. Ethan is forced to the verge of his physical and mental limits by an unrelenting enemy from the shadows, broken alliances and a revelation of long-buried secrets.

"Thank you, Tokyo, for the incredible reception and standing ovation. 'Mission: Impossible  The Final Reckoning' is a culmination of the last 30 years of this franchise, and the love was felt", Tom added.

The protagonist must choose how much of himself he is willing to lose in order to save the world one last time as betrayals mount and time runs out. And just when you think you know where the story is going, it takes a dramatic turn in the end but it's just the beginning.

The film is set to arrive in cinemas across India on Saturday, May 17, 2025 in English, Hindi, Tamil & Telugu only in 4Dx and IMAX.
Jerusalem, May 7 : Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said on Wednesday that a planned expanded military operation in the Gaza Strip would force the enclave's entire population to either relocate to a confined area in the south or to "voluntarily" emigrate, as Israeli forces prepare to seize control of the entire territory.

"We will act with full force and will not stop until all objectives are achieved, including the voluntary emigration plan for Gaza residents," Katz said during a a situational assessment meeting with senior commanders held in preparation for the operation, according to a statement issued on his behalf.

The announcement came amid growing international concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where populations have faced mass starvation and famine since Israel blocked all humanitarian aid on March 2.

Katz said the new operation, approved by the Israeli security cabinet on Monday, is intended to dismantle Hamas's military and governing capabilities and to secure the release of 59 hostages still held in the enclave.

Unlike past operations, "the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) will remain in every area it captures," he said, Xinhua news agency reported.

However, he added that the Israeli forces are still in preparations, providing "a window of opportunity, until the end of the US President's visit to the region, to reach a hostage deal based on the Witkoff plan".

US President Donald Trump will visit the Gulf from May 13 to 16.

The 'Witkoff plan', named after US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff and formally presented by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in early March, proposed the release of additional Israeli hostages in return for a 50-day truce and a promise to engage in talks on a longer truce. The proposal did not mention a withdrawal of Israeli forces or the release of Palestinian prisoners, two of Hamas's key demands.

Katz said that even if a ceasefire is reached, "Israel will not withdraw from the security buffer zone," referring to land the Israeli army has already seized.
Jaipur, May 7 : A high alert has been issued across Rajasthan in the wake of air strikes by Indian Armed Forces in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, prompting stringent security measures across the desert state, an official said on Wednesday.

Authorities have suspended all flight operations from Kishangarh and Jodhpur airports until May 10.

Additionally, Bikaner airport has been closed for the day, and IndiGo Airlines has canceled all its flights to Bikaner until further notice.

According to Jodhpur Airport Director Dr. Manoj Uniyal, nine flights were canceled on Wednesday, and passengers were promptly informed through text messages.

A Help Desk has also been established at the airport to assist travelers. A total of 16 flights operating from Kishangarh and Jodhpur will be affected due to the suspension over the next three days.

As a precautionary measure, schools in Sri Ganganagar, Barmer, Jaisalmer, and Bikaner -- all located near the international (India-Pakistan) border -- were closed on Wednesday.

Ongoing school examinations were also canceled following directives issued by respective District Collectors. In Bikaner and Sri Ganganagar, all government employees have been instructed not to leave their headquarters.

Their holidays have been cancelled, and they need to remain available for emergency duties as needed.

In a significant move, the North Western Railway has canceled all holidays of its officers and employees amid the heightened alert.

A circular issued by the General Manager of the railway zone directed all Divisional Railway Managers and department heads to ensure their staff report back to duty immediately.

These emergency steps are part of a broader state-level response to the regional security situation and aim to ensure preparedness for any eventuality along the border.

Earlier on Wednesday, in pre-dawn strikes, Indian Armed Forces targetted locations in Bahawalpur, Sialkot, Kotli, Muzaffarabad, and Barnala, where several major terrorist camps were operating. These camps were known to have trained terrorists involved in past attacks on Indian soil, including the 2008 Mumbai attacks and the 2023 Poonch pilgrimage attack.
Saharsa : , May 7 (IANS) The fortunes of unemployed youths in Bihar are changing due to the Mukhyamantri Udyami Yojana. Dilkhush Kumar, a 22-year-old resident of Saharsa district, has seen drastic changes in his life because of this scheme.

He once used to wander around in search of a job but today has become a successful entrepreneur. He and his family are running a self-reliant venture and also employed two youths.

However, the financial condition of Dilkhush, son of a farmer - Fulendra, was not good earlier.

Having lived life in penury, he thought of starting his own business after completing graduation.

He got information about CM Udyami Yojana from his acquaintances and took a loan of Rs 10 lakh, under Udyami Yojana.

He started a bakery in his village with this amount and brought modern machines from Patna and other districts.

The business, which he started from a small room has seen startling success in short span of time and today he and his family have been able to repay all their debts.

Dilkhush's bakery is first of its kind in the village, making and selling different types of biscuits in the market. His inspirational story has left the fellow villagers impressed and they are now educating their wards about entrepreneurship.

Bambam and Suresh, who now work as support staff at his bakery are also very happy and extending gratitude to the government for assistance.

Today, Dilkhush and his family are living a better life, filled with happiness and without any financial worries.

He said that the government scheme is a big opportunity for the youth of state.

"All that is needed is correct information and courage," he said.
New Delhi, May 7 : In a major step toward strengthening India's capabilities in advanced communication technologies, the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and the CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on research and innovation in classical and quantum communication.

New Delhi, May 7 (IANS) In a major step toward strengthening Indiaas capabilities in advanced communication technologies, the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and the CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on research and innovation in classical and quantum communication.

C-DOT is Indiaas leading telecom R&D body under the Department of Telecommunications, known for its work in network protocols, IoT, M2M, and quantum communications. CSIR-NPL is the National Metrology Institute of India and plays a vital role in scientific measurement, standards, and traceability.

The MoU establishes a long-term framework for joint work in developing, standardising, and delivering next-generation communication technologies, with the agreement bringing together C-DOTas technical strength in telecom and CSIR-NPLas expertise in scientific standards and measurement.

As part of the partnership, both organisations will share their research infrastructure, technical know-how, and administrative support.

They also plan to jointly seek funding to support collaborative projects.

The MoU encourages academic exchange through lectures, workshops, and collaborative teaching, aiming to involve researchers, faculty, and students in learning and skill-building across both institutions.

There is a strong focus on managing intellectual property and data generated from joint work.

A clear framework will be developed to define rights, usage, and publishing rules to ensure transparency and fairness.

During the MoU signing ceremony, C-DOT CEO, Dr Rajkumar Upadhyay, stressed the importance of quantum communication in protecting Indiaas digital future.

He said the partnership is both a strategic and national step toward building self-reliant, world-class communication solutions.

CSIR-NPL Director, Professor Venugopal Achanta, welcomed the collaboration and noted that it will support Indiaas efforts to become a global leader in quantum-secure technologies.

He also emphasised how this partnership will support national campaigns like aMake in Indiaa and aAtmanirbhar Bharata by strengthening the countryas technical foundations.

The partnership is expected to play a significant role in advancing Indiaas position in the field of secure, future-ready communication systems through indigenous innovation and research.
Biharsharif, May 7 : The targeted strikes by Indian Armed Forces on terror locations inside Pakistan and PoK, barely two weeks after the Pahalgam terror attack, triggered a wave of joy and jubilation across the country.

Biharsharif, a district in Bihar, witnessed festive and celebratory scenes on Wednesday as people gathered in large numbers to share their joy and happiness over the Indian Army avenging the savage assault on tourists. They burst firecrackers, distributed sweets and also took to drum-beating to applaud the valour of the armed forces.

The celebratory gathering, primarily comprising BJP workers, shouted 'Hindustan Zindabad' slogans and also applied 'gulal' on each other's faces.

Many BJP leaders, who were part of the celebrations, saluted the Armed Forces for blowing up hide-outs in PoK as well as Pakistan and attributed the success to the decisive leadership of PM Modi.

BJP district president Rajesh Kumar profusely praised the government for codenaming the exercise  'Operation Sindoor' and said that this did justice to those survivors who lost their loved ones in the Pahalgam attack.

He said that it was the Modi government's resolve to wipe out terror and its infrastructure completely, and the Prime Minister will ensure that it is completely eradicated.

BJP leader Neeraj Kumar said that this is a happy day for India.

"This action is a revenge for the brutal murder of those tourists. This is just a sample, stricter action will be taken in future," he added.

BJP woman leader Tejaswini Radha said that the operation showed the valour of the Indian Army, and they will not only protect the citizens but will also give a bloody nose to those who look at India with an evil eye.

BJP Mahila Morcha district president Pragya Bharti Patel said, "This action is a revenge for the killing of those innocent women whose husbands were killed by terrorists in front of their eyes."
Gandhinagar, May 7 : A high-security alert has been issued across several states with Gujarat also intensifying its preparedness measures after the Indian Armed Forces' pre-dawn airstrikes on Wednesday on nine terror hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under "Operation Sindoor", an official said.

Security agencies in coastal and border areas, particularly in Jamnagar, have launched extensive checking and surveillance operations. The Special Operations Group (SOG), Marine Police, and Task Force commandos have been deployed for patrols along sensitive coastal zones, including Halar beach -- known for its proximity to the Pakistan border.

Meanwhile, in line with the directives issued by the Central government, a large-scale Civil Defence mock drill was conducted across Gujarat.

Chief Secretary of Gujarat, Pankaj Joshi, oversaw the exercise through a virtual monitoring session held at the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) in Gandhinagar.

The mock drill aimed to assess the preparedness of various districts in responding to potential emergency situations and to enhance inter-agency coordination.

During the virtual review, senior officials including Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue Department Dr. Jayanti Ravi, Director General of Civil Defence Manoj Agarwal, Transport Commissioner Anupam Anand, and Relief Commissioner Alok Kumar Pandey were present.

The statewide drill included simulated scenarios to test the effectiveness of disaster response mechanisms, communication networks, and civil protection infrastructure.

Authorities emphasised the importance of such exercises to ensure Gujarat remains ready to handle crises with efficiency and speed.

In response to the heightened alert, all flights to and from key cities including Jamnagar, Bhuj, Rajkot, Jodhpur, and Amritsar, have been suspended.

Jamnagar Airport has implemented strict security checks under the supervision of district police, with teams inspecting vehicles and questioning drivers. Flights between Jamnagar and Mumbai will remain suspended for the next three days.

Amid these developments, Amit Arora, Joint Administrative Manager of the Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam and CEO of the Statue of Unity, chaired a review meeting to assess the readiness of the security system at the Narmada Dam.

He directed officials to ensure uninterrupted power and communication lines, while keeping backup systems ready to face any emergencies.

The State Reserve Force stationed in Ekta Nagar continues its 24x7 surveillance of the dam and surrounding areas.

Mock drills are also being conducted across the state to prepare for emergency scenarios.

In Jamnagar, the Fire Department is leading coordinated drills across four city zones, involving over 100 personnel and 30 fire engines.

Chief Fire Officer K.K. Bishnoi held a detailed pre-briefing for station officers, ensuring readiness for any disaster resulting from escalated tensions.

The Jamnagar district police, led by SP Premsukh Delu, also held a comprehensive review with top law enforcement officials, focusing on maintaining law and order and coordination among various departments.

Meanwhile, the state government, in coordination with central agencies, has reinforced surveillance and readiness measures to prevent any potential threats.

Key urban centers, including Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Surat, and Vadodara, are under increased watch, with additional deployment of police forces and paramilitary units in sensitive zones.

High-traffic public spaces like railway stations, airports, religious sites, and major stadia -- including the Narendra Modi Stadium -- are being patrolled regularly while and security checks have been intensified.
Hyderabad, May 7 : Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy will lead a rally in Hyderabad on Thursday to express solidarity with the Indian Army following its strikes on terror hideouts in Pakistan.

The rally will be organised from the Secretariat to Necklace Road in the heart of the city at 6 p.m. Ministers, MLAs, other leaders and officials will participate in the rally.

The Chief Minister appealed to the youth to participate in the rally and express solidarity with the army.

He, along with Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, reviewed arrangements for the rally.

They also reviewed the situation in the wake of aOperation Sindoora of the Indian defence forces and the mock drill conducted on Wednesday.

The Chief Minister asked officials to take strict security measures to prevent any untoward incident anywhere in the state.

Special security measures will be taken at the offices of the Army and the Navy and all defence establishments in Hyderabad.

The Chief Minister directed the police officials to tighten security at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport and increase surveillance at all foreign consulates and embassies in Hyderabad. Adequate protection will be provided to foreign tourists visiting Telangana.

State intelligence teams have been directed to coordinate with the central intelligence agency and a special information centre will be established to closely monitor the security system from the Integrated Command Control Centre.

He directed all the departments to work in complete coordination and ensure that people do not face any problems.

The Chief Minister enquired about the arrangements being made for the supply of essential commodities and asked them to take every step to avoid a shortage of these commodities and any disruption in the supply chain.

Earlier, the state government cancelled the leaves of employees of all the departments which engage in emergency services.

The Chief Minister directed all employees to be ready to render services. The Ministers and officials should also be available and cancel all foreign trips, if any, he said.
Bhopal, May 7 : A complete blackout was observed for 12 minutes across Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday evening in full support of the Union government and showing a gesture of unity, amid escalating tensions with neighbouring country Pakistan.

The vehicles parked at the roadside in Bhopal also observed a complete blackout. The authorities were prepared with precautionary measures with a heavy deployment of police personnel at public places, markets and other places.

Power distributing companies had also asked the people to switch off lights between 7:30 pm and 7:44 pm. The electricity supply was cut at 7:30 pm, however, most of the people had already switched off the lights.

To ensure that directives issued from the Union Home Ministry are complied with across Madhya Pradesh, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav chaired meetings with senior administrative and police officials at his office and monitored every development.

Chief Minister Yadav also commended the Indian Army over the successful execution of 'Operation Sindoor', stating that the whole nation is proud of the Army for giving a befitting reply at nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK).

He also lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the success of the operation and said that PM Modi truly does whatever he says.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi truly fulfils whatever he says. The way the Indian Army replied to those who dared to touch 'Sindoor' (referring to the killing of husbands in the Pahalgam terror attack) through the operation has strengthened our resolve. PM Modi had said that every evil eye towards India will be eliminated," the Chief Minister said.

Earlier, the authorities conducted mock drills at several places, including Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, Gwalior and Katni.

In Bhopal, mock drills were conducted at several locations, mostly at public places, shopping malls, and schools under the supervision of the District Collector and Police Commissioner.

The operations include search and rescue at BHEL, fire and evacuation drills at DB Mall, emergency medical response at Nutan College, mass evacuation practice at New Market, and building collapse rescue at Kokta Multi.
Tehran, May 7 : Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi will arrive in New Delhi late Wednesday night on his first visit to India since assuming office in August 2024 during which he will be co-chairing the 20th Joint Commission Meeting between India and Iran along with External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar at the Hyderabad House on Thursday afternoon.

Later in the day he will call on President Draupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The Joint Commission Meeting, being held on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the signing of the India-Iran Friendship Treaty, will review issues of mutual interest between the two countries and the way forward in strengthening bilateral relations, stated the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

While the Joint Commission is supposed to meet every year, there has been a gap in its meetings because of the Covid-19 pandemic and domestic pre-occupations of the two countries.

"The latest status of the implementation of bilateral economic agreements between the two countries will be reviewed and followed up in the course of the commission's work," Iran's Embassy in New Delhi posted on X.

Araghchi's visit comes amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the heinous April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The Indian armed forces on Wednesday launched 'Operation Sindoor', targetting nine high-value terror locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the attack.

Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmail Baghaei had on Wednesday voiced serious concern over the intensifying conflict between India and Pakistan, urging both nations to exercise restraint.

Baghaei stated that the growing tensions and clashes between two major nations, both of which share long-standing ties of friendship with Iran, are a matter of serious concern.

He expressed hope that both parties would take steps toward de-escalation and prevent the situation from deteriorating further.

Araghchi had also strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and extended condolences to the people and government of India

"Iran strongly and unequivocally condemns the terrorist attack against tourists in Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the people & government of India," he posted on X.

Earlier this week, Araghchi visited Pakistan, leading a political delegation and holding meetings with his Pakistani counterpart Ishaq Dar.
Washington, May 7 : One Indian-descent US lawmaker on Wednesday called for Pakistan to not use the current tensions with India as pretext to further undermine democracy while another offered full-throated support and endorsement of India's retaliatory strikes done earlier in the day, India time.

"In the wake of last month's horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the need to combat terrorism and prevent future violence has become even more urgent. As Secretary Rubio stated, it is essential to avoid broader conflict and further escalation," Raja Krishnamoorthi, who is of Indian descent, said, adding, "At the same time, Pakistan must release former Prime Minister Imran Khan and ensure free and fair elections that uphold democratic values and give voice to the will of the Pakistani people. The current situation should not be used as a pretext to further undermine democracy in Pakistan."

Meanwhile, Shri Thanedar, the second Indian-descent lawmaker, said, "Terrorism cannot be tolerated, and it cannot go unanswered. India has the right to defend its people, and I stand firmly with our ally in its efforts to dismantle these extremist networks."

He further said: "The United States should always stand with our allies against terrorism. This is a time for deeper US-India cooperation to confront shared threats, protect innocent lives, and defend the principles of democracy, human rights, and religious freedom."

Both Krishnamoorthi and Thanedar are members of the Democratic party and hail from Illinois and Michigan states respectively. There are two out five members of the House of Representatives of Indian descent, together called the Samosa Caucus  the other three are Ami Bera, Ro Khanna and Pramila Jayapal.

Krishnamoorthi, who on Wednesday announced he is running for US senate, was referring to Secretary of State Marco Rubio's statement on Tuesday. "I am monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely," Rubio had said. "I echo POTUS's comments earlier today that this hopefully ends quickly and will continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution."
Bangalore, May 7 : The ruling Congress party in Karnataka has welcomed the conviction of mining baron and MLA Gali Janardhana Reddy and stated that it has sent a clear message to those who indulge in corrupt practices.

MLA Reddy represents the Gangavathy Assembly constituency in Karnataka.

In the Obulapuram mining case verdict on May 6, a CBI court in Hyderabad convicted Gali Janardhan Reddy and three others for illegal mining, causing Rs 884 crore loss. The case, dating back to 2009, exposed large-scale corruption and land misuse under the YSR government in erstwhile Andhra Pradesh. The court had sentenced Reddy to seven years of imprisonment.

Addressing a press conference, the Karnataka Congress Vice President V.S. Ugrappa stated, "The CBI Special Court sentencing Janardhan Reddy to 7 years in prison sends a strong and clear message to corrupt politicians across the country. This is a prime example showing that power-abusing leaders must eventually face justice."

He further said, "29 lakh metric tonnes of iron ore were illegally exported by Janardhan Reddy and his team, valued at Rs 884 crore, as confirmed by the judge. Now, they have been punished. BJP leaders who were associated with him, including the national BJP leaders, must answer. I had previously stated that more than Rs 1 lakh crore worth of resources were looted."

He further demanded, "I urge the state government to seize all assets of those involved, treating this loot as arrears of land revenue. Action must also be taken against the officials and state leaders who were in power at that time and benefited from this loot."

Between 2000 and 2006, the period when the illegal mining was carried out, the coalition government led by Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy was in power. At that time, Forest Minister C. Chennigappa had written a letter to the Chief Minister highlighting the illegal mining. "Using that letter, I raised the issue in the Assembly, demanding a CBI inquiry," Ugrappa recalled.

The then government appointed a commission headed by Justice U.L. Bhat, which later recommended a CBI investigation. "When we insisted on an inquiry, it was handed over to the Lokayukta. The Congress party, along with leaders like K.C. Kondaiah and me, stood behind this fight.

From Malpanagudi in Andhra Pradesh to Tumati and Vittalapura in Karnataka, across a 32 km stretch of mineral-rich land, Janardhan Reddy and his team illegally exported 29 lakh metric tonnes of iron ore," Ugrappa alleged.

"The Congress party presented the most accurate and detailed report on illegal mining. The fact-finding committee, led by me, released the report on November 16, 2008. The Lokayukta used this report to prepare its preliminary findings. The Congress even held a large protest rally  the Republic of Bellary campaign  to raise public awareness," Ugrappa stated.

"When former CM B.S. Yediyurappa spoke about illegal mining, he falsely claimed that no such activity had taken place. But it was the then government that supported this loot. At the time, former minister B. Sriramulu had even threatened forest officials, and complaints were filed against him. Today, those who abused power have rightly been punished," he stated

"In the report I prepared, every detail of Janardhan Reddy and his team's illegal actions was exposed. They even destroyed British-era boundary stones marking mining limits," Ugrappa charged.

Janardhana Reddy re-joined the BJP in 2024 after making an announcement of the merger of his Kalyana Rajya Pragathi Paksha into the BJP.

When asked about the Congress unit of Karnataka, quoting Mahatma Gandhi's peace message at the time of Operation Sindoor, Ugrappa maintained, "This was not intentional. For the last six months, we've been posting daily messages on social media to mark the 100th anniversary of the Belagavi Assembly Session. This post was part of that series."

When asked about CM Siddaramaiah's earlier remarks opposing war, the Congress leader said, "He has already clarified his stance. When an all-party meeting was called, the opposition leaders extended full support without any conditions. Congress is committed to supporting all decisions taken for national security. The nation comes first, politics comes later. The sacrifices of Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi were also for the nation."

Ugrappa further stated, "After 26 people, including three civilians from Karnataka, were killed in the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, the Indian armed forces destroyed nine terrorist hideouts in a retaliatory strike. Pakistan is our enemy nation. This strike is a welcome move as it sends a strong message to the perpetrators of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism.

"The Congress party supports every decision taken by the Central Government in the interest of national security. This stance is backed by Mallikarjun Kharge and Sonia Gandhi," he added.
Jaipur, May 7 : In response to heightened security following India's air strikes on Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Jaipur witnessed a 15-minute blackout on Wednesday as part of nationwide civil defence drills.

The blackout was observed from 8.30 p.m. to 8.45 p.m.

Darkness prevailed mainly in areas such as Chhoti and Badi Chaupad, Malviya Nagar, and Mansarovar.

Major public spaces, including Jaipur Junction railway station and bus stands, plunged into darkness, with only emergency lights functioning.

The blackout was part of a citywide preparedness drill conducted at over 20 locations.

Earlier in the day, the mock drill commenced at 4 p.m. with air-raid sirens sounding across the city.

At the BSNL office on MI Road, Civil Defence teams carried out a full evacuation and rescue simulation, lasting approximately 25 minutes.

Senior officials, including Jaipur Collector Jitendra Soni and Police Commissioner Biju George Joseph, oversaw the drill alongside Civil Defence personnel.

Injured participants in the simulation were transported to SMS Hospital via a specially created green corridor. Railway station authorities confirmed full cooperation during the blackout.

"The drill was carried out under headquarters' directives. GRP and RPF were stationed throughout the area to manage the situation," an official said.

Residents of Jaipur reportedly supported the drill, chanting patriotic slogans like "Bharat Mata Ki Jai," and expressing solidarity with the Indian Army.

Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, who returned from Gujarat amid the developments, visited the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) directly from the airport to assess the drill arrangements.

Meanwhile, in Gujarat, CM Sharma was earlier attending a BJP-led good governance training camp for Rajasthan MPs and MLAs.

Various emergency steps are being taken as a part of broader state-level response to the regional security situation and aim to ensure preparedness for any eventuality along the border.

Earlier on Wednesday, in pre-dawn strikes, Indian Armed Forces targetted locations in Bahawalpur, Sialkot, Kotli, Muzaffarabad, and Barnala, where several major terrorist camps were operating.

These camps were known to have trained terrorists involved in past attacks on Indian soil, including the 2008 Mumbai attacks and the 2023 Poonch pilgrimage attack.
Guwahati, May 7 : In a development that has heightened alertness along the International Border, a drone was discovered in an abandoned state in the Charbazar area near Sribhumi town, which lies close to the India-Bangladesh border in Assam, officials said on Wednesday.

The incident occurred a few hours after the Indian armed forces carried out precision strikes on terrorist camps across the Line of Control in Pakistan, further intensifying the region's already sensitive atmosphere.

The drone was found lying unattended in an open field, raising immediate concerns about its origin and purpose.

Local residents alerted the authorities, and law enforcement officials quickly secured the area.

The unmanned aerial vehicle was subsequently seized and transported to the Sribhumi police station for detailed analysis.

According to a senior police official, the drone may have been flown from across the Bangladesh border.

While no official conclusions have been drawn yet, police are considering the possibility that the drone was part of a cross-border surveillance operation or other illicit activities.

The close proximity of Sribhumi to an international boundary has made the area a potential hotspot for such incidents in the past as well.

A full-scale investigation has been launched by the Sribhumi police to trace the drone's origin, its flight path, and the intent behind its deployment.

Technical experts have been called in to examine the drone's components, software, and any potential data it may have recorded.

This will help determine whether the drone was used for espionage, smuggling or reconnaissance missions.

The timing of the drone's discovery has also raised eyebrows, as it came shortly after India's military action against terror targets in Pakistan.

While there is no direct link established between the two events, the coincidence has prompted security agencies to stay on high alert.

Additional patrols and surveillance operations have been initiated along the border to prevent any further breaches.

Authorities are urging residents in the border areas to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.

As tensions remain high in the wake of recent cross-border developments, the discovery of the drone serves as a stark reminder of the evolving nature of security threats in the region.
United Nations, May 8 : UN ceasefire monitors in Kashmir and in the Pakistan-occupied area are safe and accounted for after the Indian missile strikes on "terror infrastructure" and the Pakistan shelling, according to a UN spokesperson.

"We checked with our colleagues in peacekeeping, and they said everybody was accounted for, and everybody was safe," Stephanie Tremblay, the UN Secretary-General's associate spokesperson said on Wednesday.

Formally known as the UN Military Observers Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) has 44 military personnel and 75 civilian staff posted on both sides of the Line of Control (LOC) in Kashmir.

Now headed by Mexican Major General Ramon Guardado Sanchez, UNMOGIP began operations in 1949 monitoring the fragile ceasefire in Kashmir under a UN Security Council mandate.

India has called the UNMOGIP redundant and called for its termination.

The Resistant Front, an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) terrorist organisation, owned responsibility for the religiously targeted massacre of 26 people in Pahalgam, a tourist spot in Kashmir.

India launched a missile attack in retaliation, hitting nine places in Pakistan and Kashmir territory it occupies that New Delhi identified as terrorist locations.

Pakistan shelled India across the Line Of Control killing at least 10 people, and downing three Indian jets, according to media reports.

On Tuesday night, Pakistan served notice that it was preparing for further attacks on India, telling the UN Security Council that it reserves the right to hit back.

Earlier on Wednesday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres remains "very concerned" about India's military operation against Pakistan, saying "the world cannot afford a confrontation between the two countries," according to his Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric.

"He calls for maximum military restraint from both countries," Dujarric said shortly after India announced missile strikes into Pakistan and territory it occupies in Kashmir.

"The Secretary-General is very concerned about the Indian military operations across the Line of Control and international border," he added.

India's Ministry of Defence said on Wednesday that it launched "Operation Sindoor" hitting nine places in Pakistan and the part of Kashmir it occupies.

"Focused strikes were carried out on nine #terrorist infrastructure sites" in a "precise and restrained response to the barbaric #PahalgamTerrorAttack," it said in a post on X.

Earlier, the Indian Army said that it has hit nine locations deep inside Pakistan in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack.

"A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," the Army in a press statement said.

The Indian Army also posted on its official X handle, "Justice is Served. Jai Hind."

"Altogether, nine (9) sites have been targeted. Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and the method of execution," the Army said.
Chennai, May 8 : Actor Vishnu Manchu, who plays the lead in director Mukesh Kumar Singh's much-anticipated magnum opus 'Kannappa', has now disclosed that he trained in martial arts and worked as a stuntman in Los Angeles before turning an actor.

Taking to Instagram to post a video clip that showed him designing many of the action sequences in the period film 'Kannappa', Vishnu Manchu wrote, "Not many know thisa Before I became an actor, I trained in martial arts and worked as a stuntman in Los Angeles. After returning to India, I carried that passion forward and became a proud member of the Telugu Stunt Union. I've been choreographing fight sequences since my early days in cinema."

He went on to add, "As the showrunner of Kannappa, I had the opportunity to design many of the film's action sequences myself. Grateful to the brilliant stunt choreographer Kecha for bringing my imagination to life. Here's a glimpse into the making of just a few of those intense, high-octane moments. Har Har Mahadev... Witness the epic on the big screen -- Kannappa hits theatres on June 27."

Scheduled to hit theatres worldwide on June 27, Kannappa has triggered huge expectations in fans and film buffs.

Vishnu Manchu takes centre stage as Thinnadu, the fearless warrior-turned-devotee who transforms into the ultimate devotee of Lord Shiva in this film.

Akshay Kumar essays the role of Lord Shiva, while Mohanlal commands attention as Kirata. Prabhas sets the stage for an unforgettable cinematic experience with his role of Rudra.

A teaser released by the unit also features glimpses of Kajal Aggarwal and Preity Mukhundhan, adding to the film's star power.

Talking about the film, Vishnu Manchu, had, in a statement earlier, said, "This film is incredibly close to my heart. It brings to life a historical tale that is often referred to as mythology. By Lord Shiva's blessings, everything has fallen into place, from the breathtaking locations to the incredible star cast."

He further mentioned, "The overwhelming response we received at Cannes was just the beginning, and I am eager for audiences in India to experience this epic on the big screen. This project has been a labour of love, and I believe Kannappa will leave a lasting impact."

Director Mukesh Kumar Singh said, "'Kannappa' is more than just a story; it is a tribute to faith, devotion, and the power of transformation. Every frame has been meticulously crafted to bring this legendary tale to life in a way that resonates with modern audiences while staying true to its roots. We are excited for the world to experience the grandeur of 'Kannappa'."
Amritsar, May 8 : The Amritsar District Public Relations Officer (DPRO) has said that the Amritsar district administration resumed the blackout measures as part of a nationwide civil defence drill and asked people not to panic and stay indoors.

"Taking utmost caution, the Amritsar district administration has again started the blackout process. Please stay at home, do not panic and do not gather outside your houses; keep the outside lights switched off," the Amritsar DPRO said on Wednesday in a statement.

The blackout in Amritsar was part of a nationwide civil defence mock drill ordered by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to check emergency preparedness in case of future threats.

The exercise involved scheduled blackouts at key locations across the country.

Several states, including Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and Bihar, also observed similar blackouts.

Cities such as Barmer, Gwalior, Surat, Shimla, and Patna participated by switching off lights at key buildings and public spaces.

In the national capital, Delhi, Rashtrapati Bhavan and Vijay Chowk also went dark for the drill.

Earlier on Wednesday, Civil Defence mock drills were conducted in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Gwalior, and Jaipur. These drills were meant to assess how local authorities and citizens respond to emergencies.

The Indian armed forces early Wednesday carried out 24 precision missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK), including Muridke and Bahawalpur -- strongholds of terror groups Lashkar-e-Toiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), respectively.

More than 70 terrorists were killed and over 60 wounded in the strikes, sources said, as India significantly degraded the operational capability of these outfits.

JeM Chief Maulana Masood Azhar claimed that 10 members of his family and four of his aides were killed in the strikes.

The attacks, which were carried out at around 1 a.m., were in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district that claimed 26 lives -- 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen -- on April 22.

In a statement, the Ministry of Defence confirmed targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK "from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed".

India's strikes came hours before a planned security drill across the country for "effective civil defence in the event of a hostile attack", across 244 districts.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had vowed to pursue the perpetrators of the attack and those who took part in its conspiracy to the "ends of the earth" to inflict punishment on them "beyond their imagination".
For decades, Americans have thought of censorship and cultural oppression as outward problems, with an impact felt mostly in countries other than the United States. But with such free expression groups as PEN America characterizing the first 100 days of the second Trump administration as a five-alarm fire for free speech, its clear that censorship is an increasingly significant problem in the U.S.as well as its neighbors in Latin America.

Last month, Princeton University Press (PUP) convened a one day event to discuss the state of publishing in Latin America today. Brigitta von Rheinberg of PUP, Cristobal Pera from Planeta USA, Sayri Karp of Editorial Universidad de Guadalajara, and Nicolas Cuellar from the independent Mexico Citybased Dharma Books sat on a panel to discuss how politics are impacting their publishing practices.

"Stay calm, focused, carry on," said von Rheinberg, associate director of PUP and director of global development, invoking the British wartime motto when asked how publishers should handle today's political climate. "Speak up where you can and as long as you can. Nobody's life is in danger yet, at least not oursyes, other people's are, unfortunatelybut we must not self-censor before something has even happened."

Self-censorship emerged as one of the primary concerns among panelists. Pera, VP and publisher of Planeta USA and recently appointed board member at PUP, identified it as "the most dangerous [form of censorship], because it is one that people might fall into inadvertently."

Pera heads up Planeta's bilingual publishing collaboration with PUP, which launched in 2024 with Puerto Rico: A National History by Jorell Melendez-Badillo. He emphasized the importance of publishing as an extension of free expression: "We speak as publishers through the books that we decide to publish, one book at a time."

The conversation revealed stark contrasts between publishing environments. While Princeton operates with relative freedom from government interferenceso far, at leastLatin American publishers described more direct threats to intellectual autonomy.

"In Mexico, most universities are state universities," Karp, who runs the university press at the University of Guadalajara, explained. "In the name of most of these universities, we have the word 'autonomous.' What's happening since the last president [of Mexico, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador], and this new president, [Claudia Sheinbaum], is that universities have been living a crisis. The government doesn't want the universities to be there."

Karp, who served as president of the Association of Latin American and Caribbean University Presses from 2015 to 2023 and received the Ruben Bonifaz Nuno University Presses Award in 2018, described a recent conflict where the state government attempted to withhold funding from the University of Guadalajara, intending to build a hospital instead. "Everybody was saying, 'Of course we need a hospital,' but there are two different things," she said. "He can build the hospital and also give the money to the university."

For independent literary publishers, economic constraints function as "passive censorship," said Dharmas Cuellar, who cofounded the small press in 2016 with Raul Padilla, the late former dean of the University of Guadalajara and president of the Guadalajara International Book Fair. Since then, Dharma has put out more than 70 titles from award-winning authorsincluding Pulitzer Prize, National Book Award, and Man Booker Prize winnersdespite financial challenges.

"It's not like someone is shutting us down," Cuellar said. "But it's the ecosystem that is harder for us to publish all the books that we want to publish."

Politics impacts book choices

Often, the panelists agreed, political climates have an affect on title acquisition at their presses. Von Rheinberg noted that a number of Princeton's recent titles directly engage with contemporary political sociocultural debates, pointing to such works as Sex as a Spectrum: The Biological Limits of the Binary by Agustin Fuentes, The Measure of Progress: Counting What Really Matters by economist Diane Coyle, and We Have Never Been Woke by Musa al-Gharbi as examples. In COVID's Wake: How Politics Failed Us, by Steve Medema and Francis Lee, and AI Snake Oil: What Artificial Intelligence Can Do, What It Cant, and How to Tell the Difference by Princeton computer scientists Arvind Narayanan and Sayash Kapoor, she added, were among recent bestselling titles for the publisher that engage with pressing current events.

At the University of Guadalajara, Karp said, the press has published a list of 25 titles focusing on crises in Latin Americathe product of a collaboration between four German universities and such Latin American institutions as Universidad de Costa Rica, FLACSO Ecuador, and Universidad Nacional de San Martin in Buenos Aires. "We talk about economic crisis, political crisis in all the different countries in Latin America, environmental crisis, educational crisis," Karp said. "The most important thing about these books is that they not only criticize what's going on, they give strategies to work with."

When asked about responsibility in publishing controversial material, Cuellar reframed the question, asking instead, "How do you see, as an editor or a publisher, the vision that you have for your catalog? Why do you think that book is necessary for the public? What do you think that book will bring to the conversation?"

To explore the question, Cuellar pointed to a contentious case involving Anagrama's book El odio (Hate), a book by journalist Luisge Martin about Jose Breton, a man who killed his two young children in 2011; the book was withdrawn from publication this month after the mother of the slain children won a court battle to block the book, saying it violated her childrens rights. Cuellar noted that one of the issues with the book is that the journalist failed to properly interview the family of victims, but then questioned whether that responsibility ultimately lies with the publisher or the author.

Publishing comes with threats

Pera shared experiences from his time as publishing director of Random House Mexico from 2006 to 2016, recalling how government contracts influenced editorial decisions at many publishing houses. He described how, upon arriving in Mexico from his native Spain, he was approached about publishing journalist Carmen Aristegui's book about presidential candidates including Manuel Lopez Obrador and Felipe Calderon after another publisher rejected it due to potential controversy.

"[The other publisher] had big business with the government because a big part of their production was making books for the government," Pera said. "What happened is that they said, 'Now we cannot publish this book because it's going to be very controversial.' This is an example of how the ties with governments in Latin America can make you self-censor your own list."

The safety of authors also emerged as a concern. "I had not one but several authors that had to come to my office in Mexico to talk about their new book with bodyguards," Pera said. "The threats could be from the narcos, but also in many cases from the government." He specifically mentioned journalists Lydia Cacho and Anabel Hernandez, who required security protection provided by the city when meeting with publishers.

Despite these challenges, the panelists expressed optimism about publishing's future. "I think the future is strong," von Rheinberg said. I think our strength is our people and our people are amazing." She pointed to PUP's expansion into China with the 2017 opening of an office in Beijing as "a crucial milestone to build a thriving global university press," and discussed ongoing work with their Chinese colleague Lingxi Li, managing director of PUP China, in forging connections with the Chinese academy.

For Cuellar, the future of independent publishing in Mexico depends on improved distribution. He described the model employed in Denmark, where "all the publishing houses own the distribution company" and operate it together, suggesting this as a potential path forward.

Pera said he is sanguine at, and even impressed by, the opportunities offered by the Spanish-language market in the U.S. "Spanish book sales are growing steadily in the United States, much more than English proportionally," he said. "In the past few years, it has been growing at a rate of 20% more than the previous year, and this is big."

This growth, Pera added, comes at an important moment. "When the White House shuts down its website in Spanish, when they decide that the only official language is English...my answer is to point to facts" about the growth of Spanish-language books, he said. Pera emphasized that young adult books are driving much of this growth, suggesting a promising future for Spanish-language readers in the U.S.

The panel concluded with each publisher highlighting projects they're particularly proud of. Cuellar celebrated Dharma's publication of Argentine author Ariana Harwicz, whose novel Die, My Love will soon be adapted for film. He also noted the success of the press's poetry program, which has sold out of all its first editions.

Karp pointed to a collaborative collection of books focused on music kicking off with Cumbia Somos by Enrique Blanc, which covers a popular Latin American music genre. The books are being published in partnership with several university presses, including those at Universidad del Rosario in Colombia, La Pontificia Universidad Catolica del Peru, Chiles Universidad Catolica, and Universidad de Buenos Aires.

For its part, PUP plans to continue fostering the debate and discussion about important issues in publishing. To end the talk, von Rheinberg highlighted Princeton's lecture series partnerships with universities in China, where the Princeton Wenyan Lectures are cosponsored with Peking University and will debuted during this years Beijing Book Fair. The university also recently announced its Latin American Global Lecture series, produced by the Colegio de Mexico and Princeton's Latin American Studies Program, where Mexican author Cristina Rivera Garza will be the inaugural speaker later this year.
No one who knows ambitious, relentlessly entrepreneurial Campbell Wharton would be remotely surprised to learn that the book-loving boy from Sydney, whose mother was a church worker, would grow up to launch a new Christian division for a Big Five publishing house.

In an interview with PW, Wharton, who was named SVP for Penguin Random House Christian Publishing Group last October, laid out an "aggressive" plan to "to double the non-fiction title count over the next three years." He won't choose one audience lane between evangelical readers and those he calls "Christian Curious." Instead, he's eyeing the whole expressway.

Today, the division released its logo and mission statement. Wharton said that the logo, which is emblazoned with a stylized cross that is shaped by 22 dots in stained glass colors, is inspired by Psalm 22 and Christ's cross. The mission statement declares that the house will be "a home for Christian authors writing distinctive, inspirational, and culturally relevant works, bringing them to the broadest possible readership."

"Our goal, and what I think our strengths are, is that we take our all authors to the next level," says Wharton. For example, he points to John Mark Comer, winner of the ECPA Christian Book of the Year award last week for Practicing the Way, his third consecutive bestseller published with WaterBrook. (The imprint also publishes Comer's Practicing the Way ministry, including nine Practices books outlined in Comers foundational title and a Companion Course Guide to the related video curriculum.) An as-yet-untitled trade book, part of Comers current contract with WaterBrook, is set to release in fall 2026.

PRH Christian just announced its next four-book partnership with Comer, with the trade titles set for release in 2028 from WaterBrook. The imprint is the flagship of the PRH Christian division, which also includes Multnomah; Image, a Catholic imprint; Forum, which publishes conservative thought leaders; gift imprint Ink & Willow; and a children's publishing program.

Wharton expects the division to reach beyond its evangelical base readership to what he calls "opportunity audiences." These, he says, "may be readers who are drawing spiritual content or inspiration from pastors and teachers on YouTube, or TikTok, or Instagram. They may say they have no religion, but they're actually 'Christian curious.' So, we have to meet them where they are, whether that's online, through the online events, through email marketing, or through influencers."

Wharton has always been somewhere in Penguin Random House. Fresh out of the University of New South Wales with a degree in media and communications, Wharton says he scoured the newspaper classified ads until he spotted one for a production assistant at PRH Australia. He calls it "the perfect entry point, because it gave me this whole bird's eye view of the publishing process and taught me the nuts and bolts of how a book is made."

Building a religion division

One foot in the door wasn't enough, however. "I entered the green card lottery, and as soon as I won, I said, 'I want to come to New York and try to make it,' " says Wharton. The self-described "gutsy, ambitious 23-year-old" bought a one-way ticket to the Big Apple, where he "knocked on the door of every publishing house" until "a publicity assistant job came up at the PRH Crown division, and I went for it. They might have felt tired of this Australian guy calling HR all the time for a job so they said, 'We're going to give this guy a shot.' "

Within five years, Wharton had become publicity director at Crown, where he earned a reputation as a "celebrity wrangler," working with everyone from Martha Stewart to Carol Burnett to U.S. presidents. Always looking for more opportunities, he eventually accepted a job as associate publisher.

In 2017, Wharton, who grew up in the Anglican church and was about to start his first term on the board of Episcopal Charities in New York, added a Christian focus to his career. He became VP and deputy publisher of the WaterBrook, Multnomah, Image, Forum, and Convergent imprints. By 2023, years before the official birth of PRH Christian as a division, he was already using that name to describe the group. (Convergent later split off to join Harmony and Rodale in the Random House Publishing Group.)

Building new capabilities and expanding audience are now top of mind for Wharton. He mentioned that the division is looking into picking up more titles on Christian living, works by "voices of color," middle-grade chapter books, and graphic novels, beginning with a graphic format spinoff from their popular Wingfeather middle-grade series. He adds that the division may consider bringing in more works of social commentary, and possibly joining the trend focused on titles about prophecy and the end times.

Publishers in the religion sector have been reporting report year after year sales increases, with Bibles and Bible-related products leading the charge. The biggest step that could be ahead for PRH Christian is whetheror whento add Bible publishing to the mix.

"To build a Bible program is a really, really big undertaking," Wharton concedes. "One thing that we can influence in the short term is being a lot more aggressive in acquiring Bible study resources." It follows that one of Wharton's first major hiresMadison Trammel, who was named editorial director in Februarycomes to the division after years at Bible publishing powerhouses B&H and HarperCollins Christian Publishing.

But looking ahead doesn't preclude looking back. Wharton plans to bring on a backlist director and brand director in the months ahead, and has a team already tasked to identify "the gems on our backlist and look at how to breathe new life into them, making sure our backlist and our authors stay relevant. We have some incredible authors who continue to be mainstays in the Christian publishing space. Backlist maximization is a cornerstone of our strategy."
The solemn, secretive conclave of Catholic cardinals who elect a successor to Pope Francis got underway Thursday. As the Catholic world waits and watches, there's attention to books new and old, and factual and fictionalized, about the late pope and the rules and rituals of the voting. And Catholic publishers are lining up writers and checking their lists in case one of their authors is elected.

Orbis has teed up three titles by Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines, a papabile, just in case. And at Loyola, the press has engaged a veteran author to pounce as soon as the new pope is named. Christopher White, associate director and senior fellow at Georgetown University's Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life, who won awards for his Vatican coverage for the National Catholic Reporter, is already working on his next title summarizing the papacy of Pope Francis, the conclave process, and the history of whoever is selected. "We expect it to be the first book on the new pope to market" as soon as the new pope is named, said John Christensen, Loyola VP of sales and marketing.

There are many serious looks at the conclave, including a new title published in March. Two journalists specializing in Vatican coverage, Javier Martinez-Brocal and Fr. Jose de Jesus Aguilar, independently published Conclave: The Rules for Electing the Next Pope: Updated with the Latest Changes, on March 10; the book details the rules and procedures for the selection of the next pontiff, including some Francis changed in November.

And while the conclave is serious holy businessaddressing contesting ideas over how to lead and convey the faith and values of the Catholic Church, which comprises 1.3 billion peopleit is also catnip for writers of thrillers and conspiracies, with the process often characterized by the cultural, political, and social tensions that simmer among the 133 cardinals who are eligible to vote. Until the cardinals were locked into the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday to begin the balloting, thousands of news-hungry members of the media chased them, hoping to post comments from a cardinal about the papabile, nickname for rumored frontrunners.

Meanwhile, the curious public is left with their imaginationand a choice of dozens of plot-packed novels to choose among. Leading the way, according to Circana Bookscan, is Conclave (Vintage) by Robert Harris, the 2016 bestseller that became a starry Hollywood film last fall. It sold nearly 10,000 more copies in the time period between Francis's Valentine's Day hospitalization and the week after his death at Easter.

In an interview with PW in 2016, Harris called the conclave, "in essence, albeit cloaked in sacred ritual, a struggle for power, and all my books are about power, in one form or another. Often they are centered on small groups in which there is a struggle for control. I also like to write novels with a very tight time frame and location. In a sense, Conclave is my apotheosis: the most absolute, the oldest, the most concentrated electoral process in the world." Harriss novelrife with geo-political jousting and revelations of sexual and financial misdeeds, interspersed with some transcendent words of love and peace from a surprising sourceends with a shocker.

But long before Harris, another novelist also mined the conclave for twists and turns. White Smoke: A Novel About the Next Papal Conclave (Macmillan) was first published in 1996, and is still on sale in multiple formats. It was written by Andrew M. Greeleya Catholic priest, sociologist, university professor, and prolific author of 100 works of nonfiction and 50 often-racy plot-packed novelsbefore his death in 2013. White Smoke has it all: Tension between conservative and moderate cardinals, cardinals who leak to the press, dueling reporters who happen to be bitterly divorced, fear that a Vatican banking scandal will be exposed, and a would-be papal assassin lurking.

Now, the world is watching as a real conclave is held, waiting for the sign that a pope has been chosen by 2/3 of the voters: white smoke drifting from a chimney above the chapel. The moment he steps out on a Vatican balcony to say his name to the world, fact replaces fiction.

This story has been updated with further information.
Published on:





The delegation, led by Professor Helen Bailey, Vice-Principal International, visited Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, engaging with leading universities, government bodies, industry leaders, and the Queen Mary alumni community.

Reflecting on the trip, Professor Helen Bailey said:

Our connection to the Middle East is both longstanding and important to Queen Marys global engagement. This visit reflects our commitment to welcoming students from across the region and forging innovative research partnerships that can address global challenges.

During the visit, the delegation held meetings with key partners including Qatar Energy, Aramco and the Gulf University for Science & Technology (GUST), where they discussed expanding collaboration in research, scholarship funding, and medical education consultancy in subjects including biomedical engineering, AI, geology and health. The delegation also met with academic leaders from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), Khalifa University and Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University.

Among the highlights of the visit was Professor Helen Baileys keynote address at the UK-Qatar AI Plenary in Doha. In her speech, she spoke about Queen Marys world-leading AI research, including from the Digital Environment Research Institute and the Universitys interdisciplinary approach to innovation. The event, opened by HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Saud Al-Thani, Qatari Ambassador to the UK, and HE Neerav Patel, UK Ambassador to Qatar, marked a renewed commitment to bilateral collaboration in science and education.

It was an honour to share the stage with esteemed colleagues from both the UK and Qatar, and to witness first-hand the momentum growing around international research partnerships. Our engagements with government, industry and academia across the Middle East are key to advancing innovation, driving student opportunity, and developing joint solutions to global challenges, emphasised Professor Helen Bailey.

The delegation also hosted alumni receptions in Dubai and Riyadh, reconnecting with former students who are now leaders in law, healthcare, business, and government, and who form part of Queen Marys growing network of over 3,000 alumni across the Middle East.

Queen Marys delegation included : Professor Jo Martin, Deputy Vice-Principal at the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Professor Anthony Warrens, Dean of Education in the Queen Mary Malta Campus, Dr Matthieu Burnay, Dean International at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Dr Jae-Hwan Park, International Lead at the Faculty of Science and Engineering, Professor Cedric John, Head of Data Science for the Environment and Sustainability of the Digital Environment Research Institute, Lee Wildman, Director of Global Engagement, Celeste Bright, Director of Development and Alumni Engagement, Gary Surridge, Head of Development, Rachel Miles, International Executive Officer, and Jessica Wong, PGR Recruitment, Partnerships and Sponsor Manager.
Shown, the home of the upstart University of Austin, in a repurposed downtown department store. It and the nearby School of Civic Leadership at the University of Texas are part of a national movement challenging woke orthodoxies in higher ed.

By John Murawski, RealClearInvestigations

May 7, 2025

AUSTIN, Texas  Lacking three crucial components  students, faculty, and facilities  the two educational experiments proposed in this state capital sounded like moonshots just a few years ago.

Pano Kanelos, University of Austin president: Were growing a university thatll be around for centuries.

Today, the School of Civic Leadership at the University of Texas and a feisty startup calling itself the University of Austin are not just up and running, but helping lead the movement to revive classical liberal education across the country.

Now in their second semesters, the two unrelated schools  one public, one private  offer a mix of courses emphasizing political theory, economics, philosophy, and canonical texts that appeal to big-time donors eager to fund traditional academic subjects that have fallen into neglect, or even disdain, in the ivory tower. A big part of their strategy relies on a naked grab for the academic market share by being perceived as more relevant, more exciting, and more consequential.

Were a throwback to an older model that sees serious engagement with the great debates of the Western tradition as the best possible preparation for leadership, said Antonio Sosa, a professor at UT-Austins School of Civic Leadership. Were not interested in deconstructing Americas founding and the West; were not focused on race and gender.

The reform efforts underway in Austin are now approaching a major milestone: the end of their first academic year, with further expansion around the corner. Commonly known by their acronyms, SCL will be launching a Civics Honors major with about 100 students this coming fall, while UATX will be adding a second freshman cohort of about 100 students as the current batch advances to its second year.

Justin Dyer, School of Civic Leadership dean: "A pro-life evangelical who is an unapologetic admirer of the American Founding Fathers and the U.S. Constitution.

Both are part of a national academic civics movement to create viable alternatives to higher ed trends that their backers deem intellectually bankrupt and moral dead ends: the penchant for DEI and social justice activism, training students in narrow careerism or jobism, and incentivizing the faculty fetish for fads and hyper-specialization.

Over the past quarter-century, more than 100 academic civics initiatives have arisen, emphasizing such themes as the Great Books, the Western canon, free markets, and individual liberty. In the latest incarnation of this trend, the University of Austin is comparable, at least superficially, to niche, independent colleges like Hillsdale, Ralston, St. Johns (Maryland), and Deep Springs that emphasize intellectual foundations and distinctive academic cultures. UATXs board of advisers is a whos who of public intellectuals, most of whom require no introductions in academic circles: Richard Dawkins, Jonathan Haidt, Robert George, Glenn Loury, Harvey Mansfield, Deirdre McCloskey, Nadine Strossen, Larry Summers, Andrew Young, among others.

UT-Austins program is part of a new wave backed by conservative donors, trustees, and lawmakers that includes 13 autonomous civics schools established at eight public universities  including five in Ohio  that have their own deans, their own majors, and, in some cases, their own Ph.D. programs. The School of Civic Leadership includes its own think tank, The Civitas Institute, which is modeled on Stanfords Hoover Institution; its roster of fellows includes John Yoo, a lawyer who served in the George W. Bush administration; Jenna Silber Storey, an American Enterprise Institute fellow who specializes in the civics movement; Arthur C. Brooks, former AEI president and Harvard scholar of leadership and happiness; and Vincent Phillip Munoz, a University of Notre Dame legal scholar and well-known constitutional originalist.

UATX President Pano Kanelos, who compares the creation of the University of Austin to Platos founding of the Academy in Athens in 387 BC, predicts that were growing a university thatll be around for centuries. But observers note that these and other civic education reform efforts are some years away from achieving the movements ultimate goal: producing a permanent infrastructure with a pipeline of scholars to lead and populate similar programs across the country. In the coming years, they must deliver on their long-term promises to their backers that they can attract competitive students, produce consequential scholarship, place graduates in solid careers, and grow their programs into lasting institutions.

In keeping with Austin's countercultural motto, conservative intellectuals are creating their own anti-establishment ethos in the city.

Its no coincidence that both are located in Austin, a vibrant college town and state capital known for its music festivals, its Silicon Hills tech hub, and its countercultural motto: Keep Austin Weird. The Austin-American Statesman newspaper describes the city's famed South By Southwest Festival (a.k.a. SXSW) as "a giant, caffeine-and-booze-fueled playground for creatives."

With conservative intellectuals creating their own anti-establishment ethos, Austin has also become home to the global headquarters of Elon Musks EV venture, Tesla, and the home of the dissident political podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience. In a nod to these counter-cultural landmarks, an earlier iteration of UATXs FAQs page used to proclaim: If its good enough for Elon Musk and Joe Rogan, its good enough for us.
The local West Australian mayor told Yahoo authorities are open to 'every option' to protect penguins on the island visited by 130,000 people annually.

The council is considering the closure of Penguin Island after a shocking decline in its penguin population. Source: Penguin Island

A popular Aussie island could be closing its doors to the public for good as conservationists and the local council push to protect the native penguin species living there.

Estimates suggest the little penguins have suffered a 94 per cent decline in their population since 2007 on the aptly named Penguin Island, situated off the Perth coast, approximately 660 metres from Shoalwater on the mainland. It's believed just over 100 penguins now remain on the tiny island.

Mayor of the governing City of Rockingham, Deb Hamblin, confirmed to Yahoo News a notice of motion was recently set by the council and it is "doing the very best" to safeguard the native species.

"Our penguin numbers are really diminishing... we need to do something about it," Hamblin told Yahoo News, confirming she has recently written to Western Australia's Premier and the Minister for the Environment to notify both of the issue.

Authorities 'grasping at straws' to protect native penguin species

A board of advisors, which Deb Hamblin is on, is due to meet at the end of the month and discuss what can be done to protect the little penguin species. Many locals and members of the council hope the decision will be made to close Penguin Island off to tourists and the wider general public.

ADVERTISEMENT

"I think we really need to look at absolutely every option," Hamblin said. "The advisory group, which has scientists from across the entire country, are ready to come back with recommendations around not just access to the island, but breeding patterns, and looking at their food sources, a whole range of those things. I think people are just grasping at straws so they'll try anything at the moment."

More than 130,000 people visit Penguin Island every year.

It's believed there are approximately 114 little penguins left on the island. Source: City of Rockingham council

Push to close off Penguin Island not supported by everyone

Others believe closing off the island to the general public will not be the solution people hope, with Corey Bradshaw  a Flinders University Professor who specialises in extinction risk in small populations  previously telling Yahoo News unless people are physically touching the animals, it's unlikely closing access will help.

ADVERTISEMENT

"[Banning tourists] might help reduce disturbance somewhat, [but it] depends how close they're allowed to get," he said. "It won't reverse trends, [and] unless the tourists are actually handling penguins, or disturbing breeding sites, their impact is likely minor."

He suspects overfishing and prey changes from climate change are instead responsible.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
Disney/Christopher Willard

By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 05/07/2025



ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade.

alum Pascal Ibgui has explained what turned him off when he was considering dating The Real Housewives of New York City alum Kelly Bensimon.Pascal, 69, and Kelly, 57, talked via Zoom and later met in person for a date, but they never became an item.Pascal and Kelly opened up about what went wrong on the Saturday, May 3 episode of the "I Do, Part 2" podcast.According to Pascal, the pair discussed a potential date location that raised his eyebrows."When you said you were going to take me to the Viagra Triangle and we're going to have a burger and beer, and you said, 'You're going to see my... Playboy cover on the wall,' I was kind of a little bit, honestly, I was a little bit turned off."Pascal was apparently referring to Kelly's March 2010 Playboy cover that is hanging on the wall in restaurant located in that Chicago neighborhood."I would have preferred to take you to a Ralph Lauren restaurant, which is a beautiful surrounding, where we could have a nice conversation," Pascal recalled.Pascal claimed Kelly wanted to go Gibsons in the Viagra Triangle, where "some old guy would pick up a prostitute at the bar."Kelly admitted that she immediately regretted saying that and was "being a d-ck."Kelly acknowledged, "There's so many beautiful places, and I really appreciate the Polo Bar. I went there so many times with my parents, and I have the most beautiful memories there, and I really appreciate that."But Kelly explained how she was "trying to, like, push a little bit" given her history."Because in my journey, which you don't know about, but in my personal journey on this podcast, I have been going through therapy, and then having these, whether they're dates, or, you know, just talking on the pod with, you know, my, a lot of my new friends, like whether it's [ DeAnna Pappas ], Cheryl Burke , Jenna Cramer, and I've been learning a lot," Kelly shared."And I am not the kind of person that ever says that, and I don't say that. That's kind of, like, my Housewives personality, and I regret saying it, and I apologize."Kelly had starred on Seasons 2 through 4 of The Real Housewives of New York City."You don't have to apologize," Pascal noted."No, I do," Kelly countered. "I don't have to, but I am."Pascal accepted Kelly's apology but reiterated how there was no apology needed and people "never stop learning" in life. He applauded her for going to therapy and working on herself.Pascal went on to explain how he's looking for an authentic and humble woman."If I tell you I've been on the cover of hundreds of magazines, it's not something I talk about," Pascal said."I just want to know you -- who you are and what makes Kelly, Kelly. And it was, you know, I was a little bit off on that. I called a producer and said, 'I don't know if it's a good match.' She said, 'Give it a chance.'"Pascal therefore said she gave her a chance and enjoyed meeting her."We had so much fun," Kelly said."You are a wonderful woman," Pascal assured her, adding how she should be proud of her "accomplishment" of making the cover of Playboy."But for me, I didn't feel like you needed to do that."During the April 8 episode of the "Ben & Ashley I: Almost Famous" podcast, Kelly revealed that Pascal had slid into her DMs but she wasn't sure if she wanted to pursue something romantic with him."I'm not a zeroing-in-on-somebody kind of person. Let's date before we get married, tread the waters, meet people," she explained at the time."I'm a little gun shy, I'm not going to lie. I've had two failed relationships."Kelly was married to Gilles Bensimon from 1997 to 2007. She then got engaged to Scott Litner, but the pair broke up in June 2024.Kelly, however, definitely falls into the age range of women whom Pascal would agree to date.Pascal shared during a March episode of the "Bachelor Happy Hour" podcast that he'd prefer to date women between the ages of 55 and 65.However, Pascal noted it depends on the person because a 65-year-old woman may look great and really take care of herself."[She may be] into health and fitness, who knows how to dress," Pascal said, before adding, "I have no problem with the age, but it has to be age-appropriate. So, again, [setting] the record straight. I do not go out with young women."Pascal was a 69-year-old salon owner from Chicago, IL, when he competed on Joan Vassos ' season of last year.Pascal enjoyed part an overnight date with Joan in Tahiti, but he claimed he was missing "a spark" with her and didn't feel like he was falling in love with the show's star.Pascal said he viewed Joan more like a friend, and so he bowed out of the competition before spending the night with her , which may have allowed their connection to develop into something more.Joan said on the show that she had strong feelings for Pascal and could see a future with him, but she told Katie Couric in an interview that she wasn't exactly shocked by Pascal's choice to leave."There were hints before [the Fantasy Suite] that things might not be great," Joan explained."At his hometown date, he said, 'I've had some heartbreak in my life, and I just need to move slowly.' It seemed like a little bit of a red flag, but not a final thing -- he was keeping the door open."Pascal had been in a relationship with a woman he truly loved about a year before his stint. The couple almost got engaged, but Pascal said they often fought and broke up multiple times, which resulted in him ending the romance for good.Joan therefore said she actually considered eliminating Pascal after her Final 4 hometown dates with Pascal, Jordan Heller Charles "Chock" Chapple , and Guy Gansert "When I needed to make a decision about the last person I was going to take to Tahiti, it came down to Pascal and Jordan, and Jordan seemed less sure about us," Joan recalled."He was fairly certain he wouldn't make it to the place I needed him to be on the last day. So I decided to bring Pascal, knowing that it was a bit of a risk."Once Pascal left the show and broke Joan's heart in a clearly tense moment, Joan was left crying , feeling "unlovable" and pretty hopeless."I thought that I was choosing, and the men were automatically going to like me. I thought it would be way harder for me to have multiple relationships and try to figure out my heart. It shouldn't have been as hard for them, in my mind," Joan confessed to Katie."I thought that when I got down to the Final 4, they would want to be with me, and that they would be as far along in their emotions and the journey as I was. I found that they weren't, and that was really shocking ."However, Joan ultimately chose Chock as her winner and the couple is still happily engaged and planning their future together.Interested in more The Bachelor news? Follow our Bachelor Nation News Page on Facebook or join our The Bachelor Facebook Group
The Red & Black serves the Athens and University of Georgia communities with reliable, independent news, while training the future of the free press. Your donation keeps our newsroom strong and supports the work behind every story.

Support Our Newsroom
The University of Georgia undergraduate commencement ceremony, which will be held in Sanford Stadium on Friday, May 9, at 7:30 p.m., is planned to take place rain or shine. It will only be rescheduled due to severe weather, including rain with high wind, thunder or lightning.
The Colored Only Cafe pantry, formerly stocked with canned goods, hot meals and fresh produce, is now a half empty room packed in boxes, collecting dust. The once lively backyard of 150 Pinecrest Lodge Road is now only a collection of tree stumps. A home that once embodied service and hope is now being emptied of the community it used to hold.
Illegal camping remains a big problem in Australia's regions. Now authorities in one state are threatening serious action for offenders.

Travellers in WA are being warned over hefty fines after a portable toilet was left at a rest stop on the state's South Coast HighwaySource: Getty/ABC

Aussie litterbugs are being warned they could face massive fines of up to $62,000 if they're caught in the act in one state, after a major arterial rest stop was left in a "disgusting" condition following the Easter and Anzac Day long weekends.

In Western Australia, the rest stop between the popular tourist towns of Albany and Denmark in the south was left in a disgraceful state after the recent public holidays, as campers and caravanners flocked to the region in droves, sparking renewed frustration among locals.

Many feel the annual surge is beyond their town's capacity, with residents in the Shire of Denmark earlier erecting signs in an attempt to divert vacationers from dropping in. "We've had a huge influx of people," one local business older told Yahoo News last year after the anti-tourist sign went viral. "We just don't have the infrastructure to cater for the huge volume of people."

In nearby Albany, where illegal camping is rife, rangers have begun fining offenders. But these efforts may have had an unintended effect  driving people to the outskirts and into rest stops, where they've left behind large amounts of rubbish and even human waste.

A filthy mess was left behind at the rest stop between the WA towns of Albany and Denmark, prompting a warning from authorities over seriously steep littering fines. Source: ABC

Popular rest stop trashed as campers flock in droves

Images captured by the ABC show plastic bags, toilet rolls, razors, shampoo bottles, pizza boxes and even a discarded portable toilet left on the ground. According to Albany Mayor Greg Stocks, fines from council rangers aren't the only factor, with him blaming social media and online platforms where people share hidden spots to camp for the night.

ADVERTISEMENT

"When you've got TikTok and WikiCamps where people share information really quickly in that network, they'll just go somewhere else that's not being policed," he told the ABC.

Stocks said travellers staying at rest stops were actually doing so illegally, but council rangers had little authority because the locations were managed by Main Roads.

"It's really clear... you can't park in parks or you can't camp in public lands, beaches, parks or rest stops," he said.

WA's Main Roads department is trying to tackle the problem, warning of fines for littering of $62,000 for individuals or $125,000 for businesses.

ADVERTISEMENT

It's the second major littering warning to make headlines in WA this week, after the Shire of Augusta Margaret River council warned of similar penalties when asbestos was found on a walking track in bushland near Bramley.

"The dumped asbestos material took a couple of days to remove, as more asbestos bags were discovered over several days in bushland adjacent to Carters Road," Council CEO Andrea Selvey told Yahoo News.

Dumping remains a big issue in the state, with Main Roads' Great Southern regional director Andrew Duffield saying locals are also to blame. "People are using those areas as an opportunity to dump household rubbish," he said. "They're [dumping] beds, washing machines, tyres, oil, asbestos, even from time to time household waste."

Two young WA locals Liam and Jack, also known as Rest Stop Rescues, have travelled around the state cleaning up the roadside rest stops. "Our aim is to rescue these brilliant places from being removed from the map and inform others to do their part to clean up after themselves," they told Yahoo News last year.

With BBQ tongs in hand, Liam Fellows and Jack Hall clean up campsites. Source: TikTok/RestSStopRescues

At the Galena Bridge rest stop, an hour inland of Kalbarri, the picturesque waterfront spot  which has eight bins for travellers to use  the pair found a shocking amount of rubbish including 12 tyres, 38 bags of general rubbish, 750 drink cans and an eclectic mix of miscellaneous rubbish including a number plate, boat turbine and asthma puffer.

ADVERTISEMENT

At other locations, they've found human faeces, broken Barbie dolls and an outrageous number of shoes.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
Banks have tightened their cyber security network to ward off any cyber threat in the wake of India launching missile attacks on Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Image used for representation purpose only. Photograph: Ajay Verma/Reuters

Banks have also improved their security at the branches near border areas due to heightened threat of a counter attack.

"We have strengthened the cyber security mechanism... we have created a 24 hours war room to diffuse any cyber attack... we are prepared for any eventuality," Punjab National Bank MD and CEO Ashok Chandra said.

The bank has also beefed up security at the branches in the border areas, he said, adding that the bank has also made arrangements for safety and security of their staff.

According to a senior official of another public sector bank, the bank has put in place an anti-cyber attack mechanism in place to withstand any possibility of cyber attack.

ATMs have been flushed with funds in the border areas so that customers there don't face any crunch, the official added.

In retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack, Indian armed forces carried out missile strikes early on Wednesday on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base Muridke.

The military strikes were carried out under 'Operation Sindoor' two weeks after the terrorists killed 26 civilians in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.

Meanwhile, leading stock exchanges BSE and NSE have taken precautionary measures by blocking their websites for international users.

"BSE, being a critical market infrastructure institution (MII), proactively and continuously monitors risks at domestic and international levels for potential cyber threats," a BSE spokesperson said, explaining the rationale behind the decision.
Following is the chronology of the developments that lead to conclusion of the India, UK free trade agreement.

May 4, 2021: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and (the then) UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson launched an 'Enhanced Trade Partnership' (ETP) to unleash the trade potential between the two economies.

Image used for representation purpose only. Photograph: Tatiana Meel/Reuters

As part of the ETP, they agreed on a roadmap to negotiate a comprehensive and balanced FTA.

Jan 13, 2022:

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal launched the Free Trade Agreement negotiations with the United Kingdom along with (the then) UK Secretary of State for International Trade Anne-Marie Trevelyan in New Delhi.

Both parties agreed to start the first round of negotiations on 17-28 January and hold future rounds of negotiations approximately every five weeks.

Jan 2022 - Jan 2025:

A total of 14 rounds of negotiations were held between officials of the two countries.

March 2024:

Negotiations were paused due to Indian general elections; both sides agreed to resume discussions post-election.

February 2025:

Goyal and UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds announced resumption of negotiations.

It was resumed after a gap of over eight months because of elections in Britain.

Apr 28, 2025:

Goyal visited London for the FTA talks with his UK counterpart, Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds.

May 2, 2025:

Goyal again held discussions with Reynolds.

May 6, 2025:

India and the UK announced the conclusion of negotiations for FTA, along with the Double Contribution Convention pact.
India and the UK have respected each other's political sensitivities during the negotiations for free trade agreement, with New Delhi agreeing to drop its demand on post-study work visas for students in exchange for Britain withdrawing its request to open up legal services here, an official said on Wednesday.

Image used for representation purpose only. Photograph: Aly Song/Reuters

India and the UK on Tuesday announced the conclusion of the free trade agreement which will make British Scotch whiskey and cars cheaper in India, while providing greater market access for domestic goods from sectors such as garments and leather products in Britain.

"Both the countries have respected each other's sensitivities.

"Post study work visas were politically sensitive for the UK as legal services were for India.

"We agreed to drop our ask on post study work visa in lieu of the UK dropping its ask on legal services," the official said.

The Advocates Act, which is administered by the Bar Council of India (BCI), provides for foreign lawyers or law firms to visit India on a reciprocal basis for temporary periods to advise their clients on foreign laws and diverse international legal issues.

Certain quarters in the legal fraternity are against any easing in the sector for foreign players.

In the trade agreement, the UK has provided an assured regime for temporary entry and stay requirements for various categories of natural person like business visitors; intra-corporate transferees; contractual service suppliers; independent professionals; investors; and partner and dependent children of intra-corporate transferees (with right to work).

Britain has offered mobility commitments in 36 sub-sectors such as computer-related services, business services under contractual service suppliers (which also includes yoga instructors, classical musicians and Chefs up to a combined total of 1,800 per year) and 16 sub-sectors in independent professionals (which includes computer and related services, research and development services).

The free trade agreement (FTA) would provide a number of new opportunities for domestic independent professionals such as yoga instructors, musicians, and chefs.

Similar provisions are also there in the economic cooperation and trade agreement between India and Australia, which was implemented in December 2022.

As part of that agreement, Australia has also given an annual quota of 1,800 for qualified, professional Indian traditional chefs and yoga teachers entering the country as contractual service suppliers.

"UK has offered its best FTAs commitment to India. Broad commitment has been offered by the UK across 137 sub-sectors, which includes areas of India's interest such as IT/ITeS, financial Services, professional services, other business services and education services," the official said, adding that both have taken commercially meaningful MFN (most-favoured nation) commitments.

The UK has also offered MFN commitment for 92 sectors/sub-sectors to India, which includes privately-funded health services, education services, professional services and a number of business services.

"Britain has also agreed not to impose numerical restrictions or Economic Needs Test requirements for the temporary entry of natural persons to their territory," the official said.

Regarding recognition of professional qualifications, both countries have agreed to engage and identify professional services for negotiating mutual recognition agreement (MRA) or similar pacts within 12 months of the date of entry into force of the FTA.

It will take about a year for its implementation.

"The goal will be to conclude these MRA negotiations within 36 months from the date of entry into force of the FTA," the official added.
Benchmark stock indices Sensex and Nifty closed higher in a volatile session on Wednesday as India launched missile strikes on terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.

Illustration: Dominic Xavier/Rediff

After gyrating between gains and losses during the day, the 30-share BSE Sensex ended 105.71 points or 0.13 per cent higher at 80,746.78.

In intra-day trade, the Sensex hit a high of 80,844.63 and a low of 79,937.48.

The 50-issue Nifty of NSE advanced by 34.80 points or 0.14 per cent to settle at 24,414.40.

Nifty moved between a high of 24,449.60 and a low of 24,220 during the session.

In retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack, Indian armed forces carried out missile strikes early Wednesday on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base Muridke.

The military strikes were carried out under 'Operation Sindoor' two weeks after the massacre of 26 civilians in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.

"Even as the country is in the middle of a military action against terrorist network across the border, markets witnessed gyration during intra-day trade but eventually managed to shrug off the uncertainty to end slightly higher.

"While the mood will be of caution due to Indo-Pak war tension, markets could witness choppy sessions with stock-specific activity over next few days," Prashanth Tapse, senior VP (Research), Mehta Equities Ltd, said.

From the 30-share Sensex firms, Tata Motors, Bajaj Finance, Eternal, Adani Ports, Tata Steel, Titan, Mahindra & Mahindra and Power Grid were among the gainers.

Asian Paints, Sun Pharma, ITC, Nestle, Reliance Industries and HCL Tech were among the laggards.

Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) bought equities worth Rs 3,794.52 crore on Tuesday, according to exchange data.

"Geopolitical tensions like the ongoing Indo-Pak standoff under 'Operation Sindoor' tend to cause immediate market volatility.

"While short-term caution is reasonable, history shows that Indian markets demonstrate strong resilience once clarity returns.

"Unless accompanied by broader economic or global shocks, Indo-Pak tensions have not had a lasting negative impact.

"Investors should focus on fundamentals, not fear," said Pankaj Singh, small case manager and founder and principle researcher at SmartWealth.ai.

In Asian markets, South Korea's Kospi, Shanghai's SSE Composite index and Hong Kong's Hang Seng settled in the positive territory, while Japan's Nikkei 225 ended lower.

Markets in Europe were quoting in the negative territory. US markets ended lower on Tuesday.

India and the UK on Tuesday sealed a landmark free trade agreement that will lower tariffs on 99 per cent Indian exports and will make it easier for British firms to export whisky, cars, and other products to India besides boosting the overall trade basket.

Global oil benchmark Brent crude climbed 0.64 per cent to $62.55 a barrel.
'Unlike the surgical strikes and the Balakot air strikes across the LoC, we have gone further inside Pakistan and raised the bar of escalation.'

IMAGE: Rescuers remove a body from a building after it was hit by an Indian strike in Muridke near Lahore, Pakistan, May 7, 2025. Photograph: Mohsin Raza/Reuters

"We have gone ahead and done what we had to do. Now the response that comes from Pakistan is what is going to dictate the escalatory matrix," Brigadier B M Cariappa tells Rediff's Archana Masih.

Brigadier Cariappa -- a highly decorated officer from the Indian Army's Special Forces -- retired recently after a distinguished career. He was awarded the Vir Chakra for valour in the Kargil War and the Sena Medals for gallantry on the Siachen Glacier.

What retaliatory action can Pakistan take in response to India's missile strikes?

Three responses that I would envisage:

One, they will only raise a hue and cry in public forums and play victim to gain international sympathy because Pakistan army chief Asim Munir wants to project himself as a strong leader to his public.

Second, they will launch missile strikes to demonstrate that if India can do it, so can Pakistan.

Third, they could elevate the level of escalation.

How different are these strikes compared to 2016 and 2019?

Unlike the surgical strikes and the Balakot air strikes across the Line of Control, we have gone further inside Pakistan and raised the bar of escalation slightly.

In 2016, we sent in teams to carry out the surgical strikes on terrorist training camps which were temporary tents in an open area and not permanent infrastructure.

In 2019, we struck Balakot which had strong infrastructure.

In 2025, we have taken a step forward and struck terrorist headquarters in Muridke and Bahawalpur.

We have taken it one notch forward.

We sent in troops in 2016.

We sent in aircraft in 2019.

We sent in missiles across the International Border and the LoC in 2025.

It is a signal to Pakistan that if you continue, we will keep increasing the stakes and up the ante.

Next time it could be even more dangerous. It could be Lahore and Rawalpindi.

IMAGE: A damaged building after it was hit by an Indian strike in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan occupied Kashmir, May 7, 2025. Photograph: Akhtar Soomroo/Reuters

What is the significance of going deep into Pakistan, something we have not done since 1971?

We've gone beyond the Line of Control and across the International Border into Pakistan.

We have targeted the terror network infrastructure situated in specific locations in Pakistan. Information about the location of these terror sites is available to us and internationally. Data from the International Intelligence Forum also indicates the existence of these terror sites.

ISPR (The Inter-Services Public Relations is the Pakistan military's media and public relations organisation) is highlighting the deaths of women and children and deliberately saying mosques have been targeted with the intention to agitate Muslims around the globe that India is targeting the Islamic infrastructure.

Pakistan will not disclose the number of casualties and whether the terrorist leadership has been eliminated at these locations.

IMAGE: A view of Muzaffarabad in Pakistan occupied Kashmir, May 7, 2025. Photograph: Reuters

India targeted specific terrorist infrastructure, what kind of action could Pakistan execute in retaliation?

Knowing the nature of the Pakistani armed forces, they will definitely take retaliatory action.

In all probability they will also use missiles -- tactical, operational and strategic missiles.

India doesn't have a terrorist infrastructure. So in all probability, Pakistan may target army establishments or certain important installations within the country.

What these installations will be is the big question mark.

India's statement specifically says that we have not targeted any Pakistani military establishment and our intention is non-escalatory in nature.

IMAGE: Security personnel at Srinagar airport after it was shut temporarily following Operation Sindoor, May 7, 2025. Photograph: Umar Ganie for Rediff

What are the risks of escalation?

The escalatory matrix is under India's control. Pakistan started this by carrying out the Pahalgam attack. India retaliated by specifically targeting terrorist infrastructure.

It was known that Modi would retaliate and he has. The Indian Army has said on social media that justice is served.

We need to see what exactly Pakistan will do. Pakistan will be on tenterhooks.

It is to be seen if they strike with an intention to signal or carry out strikes on strategic assets and populated areas to which India will surely retaliate.

If they carry out strikes on military establishments when we have clearly stated that India has only targeted terrorist infrastructure, then we have the liberty to carry out strikes on their army establishments.

We have gone ahead and done what we had to do. The escalatory matrix will be dictated by Pakistan's response.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
'It could take the form of sporadic LoC violation through heavy artillery and mortar fire, focusing on border villages where the Hindu Dogra population is predominant.'

IMAGE: Pakistan army chief General Syed Asim Munir in a bunker near the Line of Control in Pakistan occupied Kashmir. Photograph: ISPR

"There will definitely be a riposte and from the other side it will be of almost equal measure. So we will have to handle that," Rana Banerji notes in the concluding part of the interview.

What is the end game in your assessment?

It's very difficult to predict at this juncture. There had to be some sort of action from the Indian side in military terms on the ground to appease the tremendous sense of hurt and grievance of this gruesome and horrific incident in Pahalgam. Domestic public opinion in India could not be assuaged very easily without military action.

There will definitely be a riposte and from the other side it will be of almost equal measure. So we will have to handle that.

And then thereafter there will be the next step. How escalation can be contained, both sides will claim to be victorious and have done better than the other.

IMAGE: Asim Munir and Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif with a man who was injured after a suicide blast in a mosque at a hospital in Peshawar, January 30, 2023. Photograph: Prime Minister's Office/Handout via Reuters

So, the civilian political establishment in Pakistan is just a bit player in this whole game.

Shehbaz Sharif is very docile in his relationship with the army. He has no ambitions of wresting real power for long. He has wanted to become prime minister, he has lived under the shadow of his elder brother (Nawaz Sharif) as chief minister in Punjab. Now he has got his chance and it is all due to Asim Munir.

So he will not do anything to annoy Asim Munir. And he's otherwise a workhorse. He likes to work hard and deal with other pressing issues.

So his concern is not to enjoy absolute power. He is happy doing what he's doing as a prime minister with economic initiatives, with other social, civilian things. He has a lot on his plate.

He's considered to be a workhorse with a better attention span than his elder brother. So the army too is happy dealing with him. That here is a person who is reasonably good to work with.

And as regards corruption or money making and all that, the Sharifs have so much money as do other politicians who have been in power in Pakistan. So it's not much of an issue that way.

The Sharifs are said to have business relationships with Indian businessmen.

Nawaz Sharif has always found it sort of reasonable to offer a friendly hand to industrialists or businessmen from India. He has sort of a vision of a de-escalated relationship, of normal, neighbourly relations to benefit the economic aspirations of both countries.

But he reckons without the mindset of the army which wants to continue holding up India as the main enemy to maintain its own position of supremacy in Pakistani society.

So that is where the clash arose with Nawaz Sharif. And that is why the military leadership was uncomfortable with the Sharifs as long as they were being led by Nawaz Sharif.

But this time, the Sharifs made a pragmatic assessment that because they had lost popularity in Punjab in terms of political electability they thought that they should take advantage of the hostility between Imran Khan and Asim Munir.

And so Nawaz Sharif supported the decision to make Asim Munir, as the senior most general, the army chief. And that has enabled them to have Mariam Nawaz as the chief minister in Punjab after the elections.

So they are happy with this situation, they don't want to rock the boat. And as long as Asim Munir is the leader they are able to enjoy the modicum of political advantage in Punjab.

IMAGE: Asim Munir, left, and Shehbaz Sharif review the passing out ceremony of the 151st long course at the Pakistan Military Academy, Kakul, Abbottabad, April 26, 2025. Photograph: Press Information Department/Handout via Reuters

Sir, the present ISI chief is now in the unique position of being Pakistan's national security adviser as well. What is the meaning of this?

Asim Malik has been a blue eyed boy. He is the son of retired General Gulam Mohammed Malik who was also a very ambitious man. He was the corps commander of Rawalpindi for a long time under Zia and then he became military secretary before he retired or it was the other way around. So he had a very good career.

Asim Malik when he joined the army he was the sword of honour in his batch (at the Pakistan military academy, Kakul).

Then very early on he was sent to Fort Leavenworth (to the United States Army Combined Arms Center), thereafter he also did the Royal College of Defence Studies training in the United Kingdom. So doing both UK and America training falls only to the lucky few.

Although (former army chief General Qamar Javed) Bajwa's father-in-law was disciplined by Ghulam Mohammed Malik and was not given promotion from major general to lieutenant general because he was suspected to be an Ahmadiyya, Bajwa nevertheless did not hold this against Asim Malik.

He (Bajwa) gave him (Malik) promotion when it became due because of his very good career one year before the rest of the batch could be accommodated. So he became lieutenant general in September 2021.

Now a lieutenant general can continue in the rank for four years. Asim Malik's term as lieutenant general ends in September 2025.

He hasn't done a corps command so he cannot become army chief. Earlier he was offered corps commands in Lahore and in Mangla but he refrained from going there. He said he wanted to retire from the same corps that his father did. Now he didn't get that.

Instead, Asim Munir made him ISI chief which is the second most powerful position in the Pakistan army. So that was something which showed that he has earned Asim Munir's confidence.

IMAGE: Lieutenant General Muhammad Asim Malik, who is both Pakistan's national security adviser and director-general, Inter Services Intelligence, ISI. Photograph: X

A serving general becoming NSA, this is the first time it has happened. It could mean one of two things. One, it could be the face of an army general handling matters connected to international liaison as well as the possibility of defusing the military situation through a Track Two dialogue with India. So he would handle it directly without any political interference by any Pakistani politician. That is one aspect of it.

The other aspect is he has been made NSA in additional charge with the ISI. So if four years are completed in the ISI he could then be made full time NSA and relieved of his ISI charge because he would have retired from the army.

So that is a possibility that indirectly Asim Munir is clippings his wings in case Asim Malik tries to become too ambitious or too powerful. But it's premature to read that it (Asim Malik's appointment as NSA) is in response to the escalating tension between India and Pakistan. One must not read too much into his having been made the NSA in addition to being the ISI chief.

IMAGE: A damaged building after it was hit by an Indian strike in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan occupied Kashmir, May 7, 2025. Photograph: Reuters

A few hours after Operation Sindoor, we asked Mr Banerji about India striking the terrorist infrastructure deep inside Pakistan.

Was the Indian military response on expected lines? Were you surprised that India struck deep into Pakistan territory, much deeper than it ever has since 1971?

Yes. Not surprised.

Do you think hitting Bawahalpur and Muridke was meant to sent out a message to the terrorists and their handlers that they would not be safe no matter where they were located?

Yes.

Since the ISI and the Pakistan army would have expected such an Indian response -- striking terrorist targets -- would these terror camps not have been emptied in the fortnight that it has taken India to calibrate its military response?

Likely. Most probably not currently tenanted.

At its media briefing, the ISPR kept highlighting that India had stuck mosques -- was it to spin a narrative to the Muslim world that Islam was the target and not terrorism?

Well, this narrative may not sustain, as it was well known that mosques on known campuses of these proscribed outfits were being used for safe haven of terrorists, training and other non-religious purposes.

Since India carefully targeted the terrorist infrastructure and avoied hitting military targets, is there a risk of escalation from Pakistan?

Escalation cannot be ruled out.

If Pakistan were to strike back, since we don't have a terrorist infrastructure as they do, what would they possibly strike in India without ascending the escalatory ladder and provoking a full fledged war?

More likely, it could take the form of sporadic LoC violation through heavy artillery and mortar fire, focusing on border villages where the Hindu Dogra population is predominant.
'We should not just react when a terror attack happens on our soil.'

'Our approach should be continuous and a launch pad should be destroyed the moment it comes up.'

IMAGE: Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri briefs the national and international media about India's military strikes against the terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan, May 7, 2025. Photograph: Priyanshu Singh/Reuters

For the first time since the 1971 War, the Indian armed forces launched an operation in which launch pads, headquarters and training facilities of the Jaish-e-Mohammad, Lashkar-e-Tayiba and Hizbul Mujahideen were hit both in Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Kashmir.

Operation Sindoor was launched at 1.44 am on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, to avenge the April 22 Pahalgam attack in which 26 tourists were murdered by terrorists.

"This time around, India has not just targeted the launch pads, but the headquarters as well. The armed forces have shown a different level of seriousness," Dr Abhinav Pandya, author of the book Inside the Terrifying World of Jaish-e-Mohammad and founder of the Usanas Foundation, an India-based foreign policy and security think-tank, tells Rediff Senior Contributor Vicky Nanjappa.

Dr Pandya, what is the significance of Operation Sindoor?

India has shown yet again that it will not take things lying down. India has shown resolute defence against terror activities with this operation.

India had made it clear that it would not tolerate terrorist activities in the past as well.

The surgical strike post the Uri attacks and the Balakot air strike following the Pulwama terror strike was an example of this.

Do you think Operation Sindoor will act as a deterrent to Pakistan and the terror activities emanating from its territory?

Let us hope Pakistan realises that India can hit back strongly. With Operation Sindoor, India has once again called out its nuclear bluff.

Following the surgical strikes and Balakot air strikes, Pakistan did not realise their mistakes and continued with their mischief.

Operation Sindoor clearly shows that our retaliation this time is much higher. We raised the level of retaliation this time.

Could you tell us more about the targets that were hit?

All the targets that were hit are extremely significant. It would deal a major blow to the Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Tayiba for sure.

All the targets are well known ones. Take, for instance. the Jaish-e-Mohammad's headquarters in Bahawalpur that was struck.

There is a sprawling complex which houses madrasas and several training camps. It is a highly guarded facility and has been used by Jaish for long.

Known as Markaz Subhanallah located in Bahawalpur, the training for the Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF jawans lost their lives was carried out at this facility.

Moreover, it also has the residence of Masood Azhar, the Jaish supremo, and his brother Rauf Asghar.

IMAGE: Rescuers wheel a body towards an ambulance after it was recovered from a building hit by an Indian strike in Muridke near Lahore, May 7, 2025. Photograph: Mohsin Raza/Reuters

How important was the hit at Murdike?

Markaz Taiba in Murdike is a well known destination of the Lashkar-e-Tayiba. There are multiple training camps and seminaries at this facility which houses the Lashkar's top leadership.

Lashkar founder Hafiz Saeed is a frequent visitor. This was the same camp where the 10 terrorists who carried out the 26/11 attacks were trained.

Markaz Taiba is guarded by the Pakistan army.

There are recruitment centres in which the recruits are brainwashed before being trained. At any given time there are 500 recruits at these camps.

Dedicated classes at the numerous madrasas at this camp instil an anti-India sentiment.

This camp also boasts of an intelligence training camp which is referred to as the Daura-e-Ribbat.

Could you shed more light on the camps that were hit in Sarjal, Markaz Abbas in Kotli and the Syedna Bilal camp in Muzaffarabad?

The Sarjal Tehra Kalan is under Abdul Rauf Asghar, Masood Azhar's brother.

It is close to Samba and due to this proximity it is often used to launch drones and also smuggle arms and ammunition.

It is operated from a primary health centre and has for long been the Jaish's primary launch pad.

Markaz Abbas is headed by Zarar Qari, a close aide of Asghar. This camp is mainly used for infiltration through the Poonch and Rajouri sectors.

The Markaz Syedna Bilal camp in Muzaffarabad at any given time houses 100 terrorists and is managed by the Jaish-e-Mohammad.

The terrorists emerging from this camp are highly trained as the training is imparted to them by the Pakistan army's Special Services Group.

IMAGE: Security force personnel in Wuyan in Kashmir's Pulwama district, May 7, 2025. Photograph: Sharafat Ali/Reuters

How different is Operation Sindoor when compared to the Uri surgical strikes and the Balakot air strike?

This time around, India has not just targeted the launch pads, but the headquarters as well. The armed forces have shown a different level of seriousness.

If one were to sum this up, the attacks were sober and calibrated, while also not touching any military targets in Pakistan.

We have shown that we are not the aggressors here and did not raise the operation to the level of war.

IMAGE: People injured in cross border shelling in the Uri sector receive treatment in hospital, May 7, 2025. Photograph: Reuters

Do you think this would act as a deterrent to Pakistan?

I am not hopeful about that. India will have to do a bit more on a long term basis. The escalation levels have to be raised and it is about time to target the masterminds.

We should not just react when a terror attack happens on our soil. Our approach should be continuous and a launch pad should be destroyed the moment it comes up.

We should up our game ten fold to ensure that there is a permanent solution to this problem.

While stating so, I would also like to add that the world must also convince Pakistan to hold back.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
'India has been preparing for the last 15 days... it won't be easy for Pakistan if it tries to dominate escalation.'

IMAGE: A view of Muzaffarabad in Pakistan occupied Kashmir after the Indian strike, May 7 2025. Photograph: Reuters

With Operation Sindoor, India has flipped the script on how it responds to cross-border terrorism -- and Pakistan, seemingly, is scrambling for options.

In a sharply analytical conversation with Rediff's Prasanna D Zore, retired Indian Army Colonel Ajai Shukla -- whose defence commentary would be familiar to Rediff readers -- dissects the effects of India's strike on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Kashmir.

"Pakistan has traditionally tried to be one up on India," Colonel Shukla observes, recalling how Islamabad responded to India's May 1998 nuclear tests with one extra detonation, and followed the Balakot airstrikes in 2019 with a counter strike on an Indian military establishment. But this time, he says, the terrain has shifted.

Though the strike may have initially caught Pakistan off guard, Colonel Shukla dismisses the idea that Islamabad was truly blindsided.

"Anybody who tickles a sleeping dragon should expect a harsh response," he says, adding that if the Pakistan army was unprepared, "they should send their chief of army staff home."

What comes next? Colonel Shukla does not rule out further conflict, but believes both sides are likely to avoid a full-blown escalation.

"Everybody saved face, everybody got what they wanted," he says. "Now it's time to go home."

How will Pakistan respond to Operation Sindoor?

Pakistan has traditionally tried to be one up to India on all matters. When we had the nuclear test, India tested five weapons so Pakistan felt it had to test six.

When we went to destruct the terrorist camp in Balakot, Pakistan had to sort of demonstrate further superiority by striking an Indian military installation.

And now they will again be under pressure to say that India has done this so we must do this plus. But the problem for Pakistan is that India is prepared.

India has been getting ready for the last 15 days (the day since the Pahalgam terrorist attack killed 26 people on April 22, 2025).

It's been sort of preparing its military for the worst possible scenarios and it is not going to be easy for Pakistan if it tries to dominate escalation.

At first instance it looks like Pakistan was ill prepared. Pakistan didn't expect this. Was this a very surprising attack?

Pakistan very much expected this. I think anybody in Pakistan's position where they have just sort of tickled a sleeping dragon would be sort of prepared for a harsh response from the adversary. And I think if Pakistan was not prepared for this they really should send their chief of army staff home.

IMAGE: Out of the nine targets chosen by India, four were in Pakistan and the remaining five were in Pakistan occupied-Kashmir. Photograph: Screen grab/X

Do you think Pakistan will escalate the situation by attacking Indian cities?

Well, they would want to put an end to the escalation of this crisis. It is sort of evident to Pakistan, as I'm sure it is evident to people in India, that escalation is going to serve no purpose except to sort of bring both sides or one at least of the two sides into a position of grave sort of danger.

So I am looking more for signs of reducing the sort of danger that we are in of uncontrolled escalation. To use military phraseology and then sort of hoping that the matter dies down on its own without further escalation.

What message does Operation Sindoor send to Pakistan's army and the ISI?

As I mentioned earlier, that is no surprise at all. It would have been very surprising had India sort of not done anything at all.

How ready is India if Pakistan tries to escalate militarily or through proxies?

Well, India's military is, has traditionally been, in a state of high alert.

There has been this constant threat of militants and terrorists infiltrating Indian territory over the border fence or over the Line of Control fence. India is sort of well prepared for any situation of this eventuality.

And the only reason why things haven't happened so far (militarily escalated to the next level) is because Pakistan realises that it's not in a happy situation and it would be better to de-escalate rather than take this forward.

What are the lessons of Balakot that India has learned?

The lessons of Balakot are that firstly don't escalate beyond a point and if you do escalate, have an off ramp. Off ramp is basically terminology for a way of defusing the crisis. Because the worst thing in any crisis is if it just goes in for uncontrolled escalation and at that stage nobody has a grip on the situation.

In that scenario the chances of escalation are high. What I would be looking for, whether I was on the Indian side and in fact if I was on the Pakistani side also, is a way of de-escalating this crisis.

Everybody saved face, everybody got what they wanted and now it's time to go home.
'Whatever we do, the purpose will be to re-establish deterrence.'

IMAGE: An Indian Army soldier looks out from an armoured vehicle on a highway leading to south Kashmir's Pahalgam, April 23, 2025. Photograph: Adnan Abidi/Reuters

After the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam killed 26 people, mostly tourists, India-Pakistan relations have sharply deteriorated.

The attack has prompted diplomatic downgrades and treaty-level measures and raised the spectre of escalation amid a widely anticipated Indian military response to Islamabad's continued support for cross-border terrorism.

Against this backdrop, former diplomat Ajay Bisaria -- India's last high commissioner to Pakistan -- sat down with Business Standard's Bhaswar Kumar and Archis Mohan to unpack the timing of the attack and the response it demands from India.

During his tenure as India's envoy to Pakistan from 2017 to August 2019, Bisaria had a front-row seat to India's response to the 2019 Pulwama attack and argues that India now needs to re-establish deterrence.

This interview was conducted before Operation Sindoor.

How do you view the timing of the Pahalgam attack?

India did establish deterrence after the 2016 surgical strikes and 2019 Balakot operation, which is why we went for six years without any major terrorist attack, which were frequent before. But deterrence doesn't hold forever and can be eroded by other factors, such as the fact that the world has changed since 2019.

India needs to now re-establish deterrence and impress upon the Pakistan army again that there is a cost to supporting terrorism.

The primary change that has occurred is in the internal situation in Pakistan.

Things have become so desperate for the Pakistan army that it decided to take this risk, despite the deterrence previously established by India.

Pakistan's army chief Asim Munir is beleaguered -- he has jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, faces dissent within the army and is accused of rigging elections to prop up an unpopular government.

Munir also blames India for the deteriorating situation in Balochistan, and so on.

IMAGE: Security checks in Poonch, May 4 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

How does such a severe provocation align with Pakistan's stated shift to a geoeconomics-focused security paradigm?

This is about one man's search for power. It's all about army chief Munir's desperate attempt to stay relevant and to consolidate power.

'Geoeconomics' was former Pakistan army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa's doctrine, and Imran Khan was recruited into it. But Munir perceives a new reality, and the polycrisis he operates within dictates the way he acts.

His actions against Imran Khan and the rigging of polls have made the army the most unpopular institution in the country.

In fact, Munir has likely become unpopular even within the army itself. He has also gone ahead and effectively given himself a 10-year term.

So, despite the improvement in the Pakistani economy -- illusory and temporary -- his calculus may be that a limited war with India could benefit him.

He may have the risk assessment that he can manage such a conflict, despite all the risks of an Indian response and global condemnation. It is a high-cost strategy, no doubt.

What should India's next step be?

In many ways, we are back to the moment of 2019.

Pahalgam is today's Pulwama attack, but also more serious because it echoes the 2008 Mumbai attacks in its targeting of civilians.

The template we have adopted is the same as the one in 2019, but with one key difference.

We have taken an immediate series of steps. Back then it was action on the trade and visa fronts, but we hadn't reduced the size of the missions.

Today, I think the most serious step we've taken is putting the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance.

I would call it a pause, since the move is to last till Pakistan renounces cross-border terrorism.

While we have not annulled it in the legal sense, it would be safe to say that Pahalgam has broken the Treaty's back.

This is a very serious signal from India, especially given how sensitive the matter is in Pakistan, where there is a prevalent narrative that India can block its water supply and dry it up.

I would argue that this step definitely adds to the deterrence. People in Pakistan will be asking themselves and their army whether this is a price worth paying.

While suspending the IWT is a reversible measure, it definitely adds to our leverage.

We are in fact witnessing a broad-spectrum response, including diplomatic and bilateral steps.

What may come next, along with the ongoing global diplomacy being employed by New Delhi, may be kinetic military action targeting terrorists. This will come at a time of India's choosing.

IMAGE: Police personnel check the belongings of a man at Jahangir Chowk in Srinagar as security heightens following the Pahalgam terror attack. Photograph: ANI Photo

What form should the kinetic response take on the escalation ladder, relative to 2016 and 2019?

India has had two policy dilemmas in the age of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, starting from the 1980s.

One is what to do after an attack. We tried coercive deployment after 2001, and international diplomacy after 2008, which I have argued wasn't enough.

Surgical strikes after 2016 and air strikes in 2019. We could today do some of this, a combination of all previous actions, or even something completely new. But, whatever we do, the purpose will be to re-establish deterrence.

The second policy dilemma is, when you're not in a post-terrorism situation, what do you do? What diplomacy do you employ? Do you engage with Pakistan or not? We've tried both those options.

My argument remains that while China may be India's primary strategic challenge, its primary adversary in terms of creating trouble is still Pakistan, and the current policy of strategic neglect is not the right policy to deal with them. Our composite response has to be such that we once again establish deterrence.

Feature Presentation: Rajesh Alva/Rediff
Ousted Greens firebrand Max Chandler-Mather has described his experience working in parliament as bloody awful and miserable in his first interview following the federal election.

Speaking to Triple J Hack, Mr Chandler-Mather, who lost the Brisbane seat of Griffith to Labors Renee Coffey, took responsibility for the defeat.

While he said he didn't regret a thing, a silver lining of his election defeat would be not having to return to parliament.

Max Chandler-Mather says he's happy to be out of parliament. Source: NewsWire

One of the things Im quite happy about at the moment is I dont have to spend more time in that House of Representatives because basically every time I stood up, I got screamed and yelled at, he said.

In terms of a workplace, it was bloody awful, and frankly, a lot of the times miserable, and the only reason I kept going back was because it felt like we were one of the few voices fighting for millions of people who feel really let down by this political system.

However he conceded the Greens fell short.

I feel like Ive let people down because I always feel like at the end of the day, the MP has to take responsibility for that, and I suppose I do, he said.

- NCA NewsWire
11, 13, 15 are not some random odd numbers but the number of days that Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to act against Pakistan terror strikes on Indian soil.

IMAGE: Out of the nine targets chosen by India, four were in Pakistan and the remaining five were in Pakistan occupied Kashmir. Photograph: Screen grab/X

The first major attack during Modi's first term as prime minister was the Uri attack on September 18, 2016.

Pakistan-based terror organisation Jaish e Mohammed attacked an Indian Army camp in Uri, which is 10 km away from the Line of Control separating India and Pakistan.

Jaish terrorists crossed the LoC into Indian territory and struck the army camp; 20 soldiers were killed in the attack.

In retaliation, the Indian Army crossed the LoC and attacked a Jaish terrorist camp in Pakistan, killing dozens of terrorists waiting to cross over into India.

The attack on India happened on September 29, 2016.

The time taken by India to respond: 11 days.

The second major attack was on February 14, 2019, in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir.

Jaish terrorist Adil Ahmad Dar, a suicide bomber, drove his car into a Central Reserve Police Force convoy in Pulwama, killing 40 jawans.

Modi, who was shooting with Bear Grylls at the Jim Corbett Park for the Discovery channel at the time of the attack, ordered decisive action as soon as heard of the attack.

Operation Balakot, also known as Operation Bandar, was launched on February 26.

Indian Air Force aircraft flew across the border and destroyed terrorist camps at Balakot.

The operation, executed with precision, lasted 20 minutes, from 3.45 am to 4.05 am.

India's response time: 13 days.

The third major attack was in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, when Indian tourists were targeted by the terrorist group The Resistance Front.

25 Indians and a Nepali citizen were killed in the attack.

TRF is an offshoot of the Lashkar-e-Tayiba headed by the terrorist Muhammad Saeed.

Two days after the attack Modi warned at a public rally in Madhubani, Bihar, that India would hunt down the perpetrators behind the attack to all corners of the Earth.

Modi, who was addressing the rally until then in Hindi, chose to deliver this warning in English. At a Cabinet Committee on Security meeting, it was also decided to give the armed forces a free hand to deal with the situation.

Soon after, the armed forces launched Operation Sindoor against Pakistan on the intervening night of May 6-7.

India carried out multiple strikes, destroying 9 terrorist camps inside Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Kashmir.

India's response time this time: 15 days.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif early Wednesday termed the Indian missile strikes on terror targets in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Punjab province as an "act of war" and said his country has every right to give a "befitting reply."

IMAGE: A damaged portion of Bilal Mosque is seen after it was hit by an Indian strike in Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, May 7, 2025. Photograph: Stringer/Reuters

Army spokesman Lt Gen Ahmad Sharif Chaudhry in a media interaction said at least 26 people were killed and 46 injured in the missile strikes on cities in Punjab and PoK.

"The six locations that India attacked last night... Pakistan lost 26 people and 46 were injured," he said.

In retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack, Indian armed forces carried out missile strikes early Wednesday, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed, the Indian Army said.

Chaudhry said that 13 people were killed in Bahwalpur's area of Ahmedpur East where the Subhan mosque was attacked. Two girls, seven women and four men while another 37 were injured, including 28 men and nine women.

He said that in the attack in Muzaffarabad, where the Bilal mosque was targeted, three persons were killed, two injured, including a girl and a boy.

In the strike at Kotli where Abbat mosque was targeted, a 16-year-old girl and 18-year-old boy were killed, while two persons were injured.

He said that in the Muridke attack where Umalkura mosque was targeted, three men were killed and one was injured.

There was no loss of life in attacks at locations in Sialkot and Shakargarh area.

The spokesperson also said that five civilians were killed in cross LoC firing by India.

"At no point Indian aircraft was allowed to enter Pakistan and no Pakistani aircraft entered India. All PAF assets are safe, he said.

In another development, he said that India also targeted the Neelum Jhelum project by attacking a water storage dam, which he termed a dangerous sign.

He also said a number of local flights and 57 international flights were operating in the Pakistan airspace at the time of attack and they could have been hit by the Indian strikes.

Prime Minister Sharif said that India carried out attacks at five places in Pakistan. "Pakistan has every right to give a befitting reply to this act of war imposed by India, and a strong response is indeed being given, Sharif said in a statement.

Sharif said his armed forces know very well how to deal with the enemy".

"We will never let the enemy succeed in its nefarious objectives, he added.

Pakistan has closed its airspace for all air traffic for 48 hours.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar termed the Indian strikes as a "flagrant violation" of Pakistan's sovereignty, the UN Charter & international law.

"It has jeopardised regional peace, he said in a statement on X.

In a statement, the Foreign Office termed the strikes by the "Indian Air Force, while remaining within Indian airspace," as an "unprovoked and blatant act of war".

We will respond with full force. We will pay off this debt in the manner such debt is paid, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif told Geo News.

He said Pakistan's response would be both kinetic and diplomatic, and it would not take long to retaliate to the Indian attack.

"All places are open for the international media to verify if they targeted terrorists' camps or civilians, he said.

"All of our air force jets are airborne. This cowardly and shameful attack was carried out from within India's airspace. They were never allowed to come and intrude into the space of Pakistan, the army spokesman said.

Let me say it unequivocally: Pakistan will respond to this at a time and place of its own choosing. This heinous provocation will not go unanswered, he added.

This "temporary happiness" that India has achieved with this attack will be replaced with enduring grief, he said.

Ties between India and Pakistan plummeted following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 that killed 26 people, mostly tourists.

India announced a raft of punitive measures against Pakistan, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, shutting down of the only operational land border crossing at Attari and downgrading of diplomatic ties following the terror attack.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had told the top defence brass that the armed forces have complete operational freedom to decide on the mode, targets and timing of India's response to the attack.
At least 13 people, including four children and a soldier, were killed and 57 injured as the Pakistan Army carried out one of the most intense artillery and mortar shelling in years targeting forward villages along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir after the Indian missile strikes against terror infrastructure in the neighbouring country and PoK, officials said on Wednesday.

IMAGE: People were injured in a cross border shelling in Uri sector receive treatment in a hospital in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri, May 7, 2025. Photograph: Reuters

Hundreds of residents were forced to take refuge in underground bunkers or shift to safer places as the indiscriminate shelling by Pakistan destroyed houses, vehicles and various buildings, including a Gurdwara, and created panic among the border residents in the worst-hit Poonch district and Rajouri in Jammu region and Baramulla and Kupwara in north Kashmir.

The officials said the Indian Army is responding to the shelling in a befitting manner, resulting in many casualties on the enemy side after several of their posts engaged in firing were destroyed.

This is the first time that such an intense shelling has been witnessed after the ceasefire agreement was renewed between the two countries on February 25, 2021.

Poonch district accounted for all 13 deaths, the officials said, adding 42 people were also injured and the condition of two of them was stated to be serious.

The shelling was reported from all along the LoC in Poonch, including Balakote, Mendhar, Mankote, Krishna Ghati, Gulpur, Kerni and even Poonch district headquarters, resulting in damage to dozens of houses and vehicles, they said.

The shelling from across the border was intense till noon and later continued intermittently, mostly restricting to the Poonch sector for the next few hours.

Locals faced a tough time evacuating the victims to hospital due to the heavy shelling, which also hit Poonch bus stand, damaging several buses, the officials said.

Three Sikh men lost their lives when an artillery shell hit a Gurdwara and adjoining houses in Poonch town, they said.

Several parties from Punjab condemned the incident.

In a post on X, Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal said, 'Strongly condemn the inhuman attack by Pakistani forces on the sacred Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Poonch, in which three innocent Gursikhs, including Bhai Amrik Singh Ji (a raagi Singh), Bhai Amarjeet Singh and Bhai Ranjit Singh lost their lives.'

IMAGE: A view of a damaged house after civilian areas targeted by the Pakistan army in Rajouri. Photograph: ANI Photo

Ten persons, including five children, were also injured in cross-border shelling in Uri sector of Baramulla district, while three others were injured in Rajouri district, the officials said, adding several houses also caught fire due to shelling in Karnah sector of Kupwara district.

The officials identified the deceased as Balvinder Kour alias 'Ruby' (33), Mohd Zain Khan (10), his elder sister Zoya Khan (12), Mohd Akram (40), Amrik Singh (55), Mohd Iqbal (45), Ranjeet Singh (48), Shakeela Bi (40), Amarjeet Singh (47), Maryam Khatoon (7), Vihaan Bhargav (13) and Mohd Rafi (40) and a Lance naik of Army.

This was the 13th consecutive night of unprovoked firing along the borders in Jammu and Kashmir, amid heightened tensions following the Pahalgam attack.

Earlier, a defence spokesman said during the intervening night of May 6 and 7, the Pakistan Army resorted to arbitrary firing, including artillery shelling, from posts across the LoC and International Border opposite Jammu and Kashmir.

He said the Indian Army is responding in a 'proportionate manner'.

Army sources said Indian troops caused many casualties to the enemy forces after destroying several of their posts in the retaliatory action.

Authorities had shut all educational institutions in the five border districts of the Jammu region on Wednesday.

The ceasefire violations have been very rare after India and Pakistan renewed the ceasefire agreement on February 25, 2021.

In a gesture of solidarity and compassion, Congress MLA from Rajouri Iftkhar Ahmed donated blood along with his supporters after visiting the injured undergoing treatment at the GMC hospital in Rajouri.

Ahmed appealed to the public to come forward and donate blood, emphasising the urgent need to support the medical efforts during this critical time.

"We are ready to sacrifice everything for the integrity and sovereignty of the nation. The nation comes first, and we should stand united to face any challenges that come our way," he said.

Principal GMC Rajouri Amarjeet Singh Bhatia said the hospital is fully geared up to deal with the situation in the wake of border skirmishes and mounting tension.

"All necessary arrangements are in place to ensure the best treatment for the patients," he said.

Authorities in Poonch district said they have designated nine public shelter camps with adequate amenities for the people desirous to relocate from the forward villages hit by Pakistani shelling.

"Though there was no cross-border firing in our village, we have been told to shift to ITI College in R S Pura where necessary arrangements have been made by the government for our lodgment in view of the prevailing tense situation," Liaqat Ali, a resident of Jorian village near the IB, told PTI.

Ali said the village had suffered immensely and had even been burned to the ground in the past by Pakistani shelling.

The intense shelling from across the border started shortly after Indian armed forces carried out missile attacks on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir to avenge the April 22 terror attack in south Kashmir's Pahalgam that had left 26 civilians dead.
Being a 'fauji' kid, Sofiya Qureshi grew up listening to tales of valour and sacrifice of the army shared by her grandfather, who was a soldier.

IMAGE: Colonel Sofiya Qureshi. Photograph: ANI Photo

Many years later, when she expressed her desire to join the armed forces, her family didn't hesitate and stood firmly behind her decision.

A colonel in the Indian Army today, Sofiya Qureshi, was chosen to brief the nation about India's 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday.

During the briefing, Col Sofiya and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh of the Indian Air Force flanked Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on the dais, who delivered the opening statement from the government.

The briefing came hours after the Indian armed forces carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and PoK, including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base Muridke.

Col Qureshi and Wg Cdr Singh shared the names and details of the sites targeted from 1 am to 1.30 am on the intervening night of May 6-7.

A multi-generation officer in the Army who imbibed the spirit of serving the nation at an early age, Col Qureshi is an officer from the Corps of Signals and spoke in Hindi while Singh shared the details in English, complementing each other.

The military strikes were carried out under 'Operation Sindoor' two weeks after the massacre of 26 civilians in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.

In a panel discussion hosted in 2017, Col Qureshi shared about her journey into the armed forces and what inspired her to don the olive-green uniform.

"Being a 'fauji' kid, I was exposed to the army environment. My mother wanted either of us two sisters to join the Army. I applied for it and got it. My grandfather was also in the Army, and he used to say, 'It is our responsibility, as every citizen, to be alert and stand up for our country and defend the nation.' It is a dignified and honourable job," she had recalled.

She also said that when she 'joined the academy, the Kargil war was going on'.

The colonel's family members said they were surprised and proud to see her live on television.

"We are very happy with what our daughter has done for the country. Everyone should educate their children, especially daughters, and make them capable so that they become officers and do something for the country," Col Qureshi's mother told PTI Videos.

"When she was young, her grandfather used to tell her stories about the army. When she grew up, she said that she wanted to join the army... We didn't stop her," she added.

Her brother said he was proud of her achievements.

"When I saw her on TV, I couldn't believe my eyes. It took a while for me to realise that the person speaking was my sister. It is a matter of pride for all of us," he said.

Speaking about India's action, he said that now the score has been settled with Pakistan.

Born in Gujarat's Vadodara in 1974, she graduated with a Master's in biochemistry from Manonmaniam Sundaranar (MS) University in 1997, a source said.

An officer in the critical Corps of Signals, in the past, she had been picked for the role of a military observer in Democratic Republican of Congo in 2006, and been part of flood relief operations in the Northeast region.

The Army officer had broken the glass ceiling when in 2016, she became the first woman officer to lead its contingent at a multi-national field training exercise, Force 18, hosted by India for interoperability in sustaining peace among ASEAN nations.

'1st woman officer to lead an Army training contingent at Force18 -- #ASEAN Plus multinational field training exercise in 2016. She was the only Woman Officers Contingent Commander among all #ASEAN Plus contingents. #WomensDay #IWD2020 #EachforEqual #SheInspiresUs,' the Ministry of Defence had said in a Women's Day post on X, sharing a photograph of Qureshi.

She has also been to other countries as part of the United Nations training team, where she received many accolades.

The Army officer has conducted workshops for uplifting and motivating youths, especially girls, in insurgency-prone areas of Kashmir and in West Bengal, sources said.

In her journey so far, she has picked up many awards along the way and inspired many citizens, especially young women, to take up a career in the armed forces.
More than 300 flights have been cancelled and at least 25 airports, including Srinagar, have been temporarily shut for operations amid restrictions in the wake of the armed forces launching missile attacks on terror targets in Pakistan on Wednesday morning.

IMAGE: A woman waits with her luggage as all civilian flights get cancelled at Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport following the 'Operation Sindoor', in Chandigarh on Wednesday. Photograph: ANI Photo

Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India Express, Akasa Air, and a few foreign airlines have cancelled their services to and from various airports.

Sources said that at least 25 airports in the northern and western parts of the country have been temporarily shut.

These airports include Srinagar, Leh, Jammu, Amritsar, Pathankot, Chandigarh, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Shimla, Dharamshala and Jamnagar, they added.

According to one of the sources, more than 300 flights to and from various airports have been cancelled by airlines.

IndiGo said it has cancelled more than 165 flights from various domestic airports, including Amritsar and Srinagar, till early morning of May 10 due to airspace restrictions.

The sources said that around 140 flights of Air India Group -- Air India and Air India Express -- have been cancelled.

'Air India flights to and from the following stations, Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot, are being cancelled till 0529 hrs IST on 10 May following a notification from aviation authorities on the closure of these airports,' the airline said.

In a post on X, the airline also said passengers holding valid tickets for travel during this period will be offered a one-time waiver on rescheduling charges or a full refund for cancellations.

'Due to government notification on airspace restrictions, over 165 IndiGo flights from multiple airports (Amritsar, Bikaner, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, Gwalior, Jammu, Jodhpur, Kishangarh, Leh, Rajkot, and Srinagar) are cancelled until 0529 hrs. IST of 10 May 2025,' IndiGo said in a statement.

The airline also said that passengers whose flights are affected can reschedule the booking on the next available flight or opt to cancel their bookings at no additional cost, and a full refund will be processed.

Photograph: Umar Ganie for Rediff.com IMAGE: Srinagar airport was shut in the wake of the armed forces carrying out missile strikes on terror targets in Pakistan.

IndiGo operates around 2,200 flights daily.

In an update on X, SpiceJet said that due to the ongoing situation, flights to and from Leh, Srinagar, Jammu, Dharamshala, Kandla and Amritsar are cancelled till 0529 hours of May 10.

The affected passengers can opt for a full refund or an alternate flight as per availability, it added.

Around 140 flights to and from the Delhi airport were cancelled by various airlines including foreign carriers on Wednesday.

As many as 65 arrivals and 66 departures were cancelled. Besides, 2 international departures and 2 international arrivals were cancelled during the day, one of the sources said.

'Due to changing airspace conditions some flights have been impacted. Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest updates and alternate travel arrangements.

'We are working closely with airlines and Air Traffic Control (ATC) to minimise any disruptions to flight schedules,' DIAL said in a post on X.

Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) operates the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA).

'Due to notification from the airport authorities, flights to and from Amritsar, Gwalior, Jammu, Srinagar and Hindon are cancelled till 05.30 hrs on 10th May 2025,' Air India Express said in a post on X.

Akasa Air, in a post on X, said that due to the prevailing situation in the region, all its flights to and from Srinagar have been cancelled until May 9.

As per data available on flight tracking website Flightradar24.com, United Airlines cancelled its flight from Newark to Delhi while American Airlines cancelled its flight from New York to Delhi.

Regional carrier Star Air said its flights to/from Nanded, Hindon, Adampur, Kishangarh and Bhuj stand cancelled for the day.

Meanwhile, Qatar Airways, in a post on X, said it has temporarily suspended flights to Pakistan due to Pakistani airspace closure.

India on Wednesday closed about 25 flight routes that allow planes to enter Pakistan through the Indian airspace on a day when the armed forces launched missile attacks on terror targets in Pakistan, according to officials.

In retaliation against the Pahalgam terror attack, Indian armed forces, under Operation Sindoor, on early Wednesday, carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base in Muridke.
Shortly after India carried out military strikes targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir early Wednesday, United States President Donald Trump said he hopes that the hostilities will end "very quickly".

IMAGE: US President Donald Trump. Photograph: Carlos Barria/Reuters

"It's a shame, he said, adding, "We heard about it just as we were walking in the doors of the Oval (Office). I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past."

"They've been fighting for a long time. They've been fighting for many, many decades and centuries, actually, if you really think about it, Trump said.

Asked if he has any message for the countries, he said, No, I just hope it ends very quickly.

In retaliation against the Pahalgam terror attack, Indian armed forces carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) including Bhawalpur, a stronghold of the Jaish-e-Mohammad terror outfit.

The military strikes were carried out under 'Operation Sindoor', the defence ministry said.

India's actions came two weeks after the Pahalgam terror attack triggered widespread outrage in India and abroad.

"These steps come in the wake of the barbaric Pahalgam terrorist attack in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were murdered," the Defence Ministry said in the statement.

"We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable," it said.
Hundreds of residents along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB) in Jammu were evacuated to safer zones on Wednesday as authorities chalked out countermeasures to safeguard civilians from Pakistani shelling.

Photograph: Umar Ganie for Rediff IMAGE: A house in Uri damaged in Pakistani shelling.

As many as 12 people, including four children and two women, were killed and over 50 injured when the Pakistan army pounded forward villages in Poonch and Rajouri in Jammu region and Baramulla and Kupwara in north Kashmir with artillery and mortar shelling earlier during the day.

The shelling from across the border started shortly after Indian armed forces carried out missile attacks on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir to avenge the April 22 terror attack in south Kashmir's Pahalgam that had left 26 civilians, mostly tourists, dead.

"Though there was no cross-border firing in our village, we have been told to shift to ITI College in R S Pura where necessary arrangements have been made by the government for our lodgment in view of the prevailing tense situation," Liaqat Ali, a resident of Jorian village near the IB, told PTI.

Ali said the village had suffered immensely and had even been burned to the ground in the past by Pakistani shelling.

"We have been told to move out for our safety, and we are following the directions of the government," he said, adding the village has a population of more than 1,000, mostly earning their livelihood by selling milk and milk products.

He said they are afraid of a full-scale war between India and Pakistan following the recent civilian killings by terrorists in Pahalgam.

The residents of Gagrian and adjoining villages, including Pragwal near the LoC in Akhnoor sector, said they have also been informed by the authorities to shift to safer places.

"We have always stood shoulder-to-shoulder with our security forces to secure the borders. A policeman came to the village and asked the people to take shelter either in a government accommodation or at a relative's house for the time being," Munshi Ram said.

He said the local residents are the eyes and ears of the security agencies but the prevailing war-like situation has caused a major concern for the people living on the borders.

"It is safe to move out for the time being till the situation normalises," Ram said.

The officials said the district administration has mobilised all its resources to make necessary arrangements for the convenience of people, especially females, so that they do not face any problem at the temporary shelter homes.

However, the situation was altogether different in the affected areas like Poonch where people were seen moving to safer zones on their own.

"We had a sleepless night... I was waiting for the shelling to stop to shift my family of six to a relative's house," Mohd Arshid, a resident of the worst-hit Mankote, said.

A woman lost her life, and several others, including her minor daughter, were injured in the heavy shelling in the village early Wednesday.

"There is nothing like peace, but the Pahalgam terror attack left our government and forces with no option but to launch strikes across the border to dismantle terror camps," Ravinder Singh, a local resident, said.

In Jammu, meanwhile, groups of people took out rallies and chanted slogans in praise of the country and the armed forces for undertaking the precision strikes.

"The Pahalgam terror victims have been given justice today," Pawan Gupta, a shopkeeper, said, lauding the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He expressed grief over the loss of innocent lives in the Pakistani shelling in Poonch and said the government needed to take necessary precautionary measures to ensure the safety of the border population.

Political leaders, including Pradesh Congress Committee president Tariq Hameed Karra and former Jammu and Kashmir BJP president Ravinder Raina, condemned the Pakistani shelling on the civilian areas.

'Pakistan's mindlessly targeting civilian areas in Poonch, Mendhar, and Uri sectors is highly condemnable and against International conventions. We earnestly urge the government to ensure secure evacuation and comprehensive rehabilitation for affected families,' Karra said on X.

He urged the party workers to lead frontline efforts in supporting and aiding the affected communities.

Raina also criticised Pakistan for targeting innocent civilians living close to the border and said the BJP-led government at the centre will ensure proper rehabilitation of the people affected by the cross-border shelling.
Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, United States President Donald Trump said if he could do anything to help, 'I will be there' and wants the escalating conflict between the two countries to 'stop'.

IMAGE: US President Donald Trump. Photograph: Leah Millis/Reuters

"Oh it's so terrible. My position is I get along with both. I know both very well and I want to see them work it out. I want to see them stop and hopefully they can stop now. They have gone tit for tat so hopefully they can stop now. I know them both, we get along with both the countries very well.

"Good relationships with both and I want to see it stop. And If I can do anything to help I will be there," Trump said in response to a question on the 'war' between India and Pakistan.

Earlier, Trump said he hopes that the hostilities will end 'very quickly'.

"It's a shame, he said, adding, "We heard about it just as we were walking in the doors of the Oval (Office). I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past."

"They've been fighting for a long time. They've been fighting for many, many decades and centuries, actually, if you really think about it," Trump said.

Asked if he has any message for the countries, he said, "No, I just hope it ends very quickly."

India launched Operation Sindoor early Wednesday hitting nine terror targets in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Punjab in retaliation for the terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 26 people.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Army spokesman Lt Gen Ahmad Sharif Chaudhry said 31 people were killed and 57 others injured in the missile strikes launched shortly after midnight on cities in the Punjab province and PoK, and firing on the Line of Control.
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Wednesday told his counterparts in various countries that India has no intent to escalate tensions but is prepared to "retaliate resolutely" if Pakistan does so, officials said.

IMAGE: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Photograph: PTI Photo Archive

Doval briefed his counterparts in the United States, United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia and Japan about India's missile strikes against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. He also established contact with Russia and France, officials said.

"NSA briefed his counterparts on actions taken and method of execution, which was measured, non-escalatory and restrained. He emphasised that India had no intent to escalate but was well prepared to retaliate resolutely should Pakistan decide to escalate," an official said.

The conversations took place soon after India carried out Operation Sindoor at nine sites.

He spoke to US NSA and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, UK's Jonathan Powell, Saudi Arabia's Musaid Al Aiban, UAE's H.H. Sheikh Tahnoon, and Japan's Masataka Okano.

"Contact was also established with Russian NSA Sergei Shoigu, Member of Political Bureau of CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs of PRC Wang Yi and Diplomatic Adviser to French President Emmanuel Bonne," the official said.

Doval will be in further touch with his counterparts in the days ahead.
India's 'Nari Shakti' was veritably on display during a press briefing in New Delhi on 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday, as two accomplished woman military officers joined Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in giving details about the precision strikes by the armed forces on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.

IMAGE: Wing Commander Vyomika Singh (left) and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi brief the media on Operation Sindoor, at the National Media Centre, New Delhi, May 7, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

At the briefing held at the National Media Centre, Misri was flanked by Col Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, presenting a striking image of a combination of India's prowess in military and diplomacy.

Indian military carried out a "measured, non-escalatory, proportionate, and responsible" strike to dismantle terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan to "deter and to pre-empt" any further terrorist strikes, Misri said, hours after India retaliated the Pahalgam attack.

The precision strikes were carried out under 'Operation Sindoor', two weeks after the massacre of 26 people, mostly tourists, in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.

After delivering the opening statement from the government, first in Hindi and then in English, Misri announced that the two officers would be briefing on the broader details of the operation.

Col Qureshi from the Army's Corps of Signals, and Wg Cdr Singh, a helicopter pilot, shared the names and details of the sites targeted in the early hours on Wednesday.

The army officer spoke in Hindi while the IAF helicopter pilot shared the details in English, complementing each other.

The military officers took a podium each on the dais as Misri took his seat at the centre of the dais.

"I, Col Sofiya Qureshi, and along with me Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, will today provide information to you about Operation Sindoor carried out by the Indian armed forces from 1 am to 1:30 am on the intervening night of May 6-7, 2025," Col Qureshi said.

The operation was launched to give justice to people, who became victims of the heinous Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, and their families, she said.

Col Qureshi, a multi-generation officer in the Army, who imbibed the spirit of serving the nation from an early age, read out details as some visuals played on the screen, depicting sites which were targeted.

"In this action, nine terrorist camps were targeted and destroyed. In the last three decades in Pakistan, terror infrastructure are being built, including recruitment and indoctrination centres, training areas and launch pads," she said, as the Corps of Signals insignia clipped on her cap shone bright.

Some videos of the strike were also played on the screen during the briefing.

The briefing was held hours after the Indian armed forces carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and PoK, including the Jaish-e-Mohammed stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Tayiba's base Muridke.

Wing Commander Singh, during the briefing, said the strike on the terror camps were taken through "precision capabilities".

"Niche technology weapons with careful selection of warheads was ensured, so that there will be no collateral damage. The point of impact, in each of the target was a specific building or a group of buildings," the IAF officer said.

All the targets were "neutralised with clinical efficiency", and the results "reiterate the professionalism" of the Indian armed forces, in the planning and execution of their operations, she added.

The wing commander underlined that "no military establishments were targeted" during Operation Sindoor.

"India has demonstrated considerable restraint in its response. However, it must be said that the Indian armed forces are fully prepared to respond to Pakistani misadventures, if any that will escalate this situation. Jai Hind," the IAF officer said, as the briefing came to an end.

The occasion brought to the fore India's emphasis on 'Nari Shakti', especially in the realm of armed forces.

In September 2017, exercising India's right to reply after the then Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi raked up the Kashmir issue at the UN General Assembly, a young Indian woman diplomat had made a strong rebuttal by calling Pakistan "terroristan".

The statement was read by Eenam Gambhir, who earlier served in the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations in New York.
Over 23,000 people are calling for more transparency from government about a growing problem facing koalas.

There are calls for an independent iquiry into the welfare of koalas living in plantations across Victoria's southwest. Source: Jessica Robertson

Preparations are underway to reopen an Australian national park where a staggering number of koalas were euthanised after a bushfire swept through in early March, causing injuries and food shortages.

On Wednesday, Victoria's department of environment DEECA confirmed with Yahoo News that only one animal was rescued and taken into care, while 1,061 were euthanised.

Since early March, 2,219 koalas have been assessed by both ground and aerial teams, with 48 per cent identified as suffering severe injuries and burns from the bushfire and required humane euthanasia to relieve unnecessary suffering, it said in a statement.

After Yahoo News revealed on April 25 that koalas were being shot from helicopters in World Heritage-listed Budj Bim national park, the story was reported around the world, including the US, UK, India, Japan, South Korea and across Europe. But local animal advocates have now revealed populations of these iconic marsupials living across the surrounding region face an even bigger problem than fire.

ADVERTISEMENT

Koala Alliance president Jessica Robertson visited Victorias southwest on the weekend, surveying the perimeter of the national park where the cull occurred.

Her most immediate concern is that private blue gum plantations continue to be harvested in the surrounding area, further impacting food availability. If DEECA is worried about koala welfare, they would stop the harvesting until a better solution can be found," she said. "We cant go on with business as usual, because its creating endless suffering.

Over 40,000 koalas are estimated to live in blue gum plantations around Victoria, and these feed trees cover over 100,000 hectares in the southwest. Photos taken by Robertson highlight how the marsupials are regularly left homeless after the trees they live in are felled. They're then forced to relocate to protected areas like Budj Bim where they are already overpopulated.

Related: Fear for joeys as Australia guns down koalas

While there are management plans that govern koala welfare as plantations are harvested, critics say they need to be reviewed. Source: Jessica Robertson

'Sad truth' behind koala deaths

Robertsons grassroots advocacy group, along with International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), Humane World for Animals, the Greens and the Animal Justice Party, are calling for an independent investigation into long-running concerns about koala management across the southwest.

ADVERTISEMENT

"The sad truth behind these shocking headlines... is the ongoing chronic animal welfare crisis facing koalas in southwest Victoria that has been unfolding for decades. The root cause being rampant habitat loss and the relentless expansion of the blue gum plantation industry. With their natural habitat diminished, koalas are left with nowhere safe to go," IFAW said last week, before launching a petition for an inquiry to address "Victoria's shameful secret".

"We are strongly supportive of calls for an independent review of management plans designed to protect koalas in private timber plantations," HWFA added.

Koalas have regularly become overabundant in Budj Bim, resulting in the need for regular health assessments and euthanasia. In 2022, a DEECA-led team performed two medical assessment operations inside the park. During the first, 93 were examined, 28 euthanised, and 53 were given fertility control. The second resulted in 30 of 135 being declared unviable due to welfare concerns.

A participant in the health-check program, who spoke to Yahoo on the condition of anonymity, said koala populations regularly boom inside the park after trees across surrounding plantations are cleared. Only small clusters of trees are left for the koalas, forcing them to flee once the leaves run out.

DEECA has conceded that "overpopulation in Budj Bim is an ongoing management issue", and there were between 1 and 1.5 koalas per hectare in the fire zone.

When koala feed trees at private plantations are harvested, the koalas are forced to relocate to Budj Bim, worsening population issues. Source: Jessica Robertson

Why are thousands of people calling for transparency?

Environment minister Steve Dimopoulos is yet to directly address Yahoos questions about the welfare of koalas in the southwest, or the euthanasia program at Budj Bim. The only planned response Yahoo is aware of is a standard post-incident review by DEECA that will assess the successes and failings of the euthanasia program.

ADVERTISEMENT

But for many animal lovers, this internal review is simply not enough. Over 1,600 people are calling for an independent inquiry, and more than 21,000 people have signed a Change.org petition.

Without warning, and without public consultation [DEECA] has authorised the aerial and ground-based shooting of koalas, claiming the animals were suffering due to lack of food after recent bushfires. Yet this brutal decision was made behind closed doors  and we, the public, were never supposed to find out, the latter petition states.

This week, the Liberal Party renewed calls for the government to publicly release all documents that led to its aerial shooting response.

What's the future for the surviving koalas?

DEECAs chief biodiversity officer James Todd described the response to the Budj Bim fire as long, emotional and difficult. He said the decision to proceed with euthanasia wasnt taken lightly, and only went ahead after approval from wildlife experts and vets.

ADVERTISEMENT

It was clear from early on that most fire-impacted koalas were in areas simply unsafe and virtually impossible for ground crews to access in a timely manner, which is why we took the decision to conduct aerial assessments and shooting where deemed necessary to remove koala pain and suffering, he said.

DEECA has since reassessed the health of koalas at Budj Bim, and found the overall state of populations in the fire-impacted area had significantly improved.

To help support the remaining koalas, the agency is undertaking a program of invasive predator control. And the state government confirmed with Yahoo it will provide $1 million through its BushBank program to revegetate areas of private land adjacent to Budj Bim to provide koalas with additional habitat.

But despite these programs and the massive loss of koala life, DEECA appears to expect ongoing health issues will continue at Budj Bim into the future.

Ground crews will continue to do monitoring for some time, and longer-term, land managers will continue to do important health checks to support a sustainable population in the park, Todd said.

Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment?  Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hailed the Indian armed forces for carrying out targeted strikes at terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets President Droupadi Murmu and briefs her on Indian armed forces' precision strikes at terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Photograph: @rashtrapatibhvn/X

The prime minister chaired a meeting of the Union Cabinet, hours after 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to destroy terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.

Soon after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh informed the Cabinet about Operation Sindoor, the entire Cabinet hailed the action and the prime minister's leadership with thumping of desks.

Modi is also learnt to have said that his government will have zero tolerance towards terror.

Modi also met President Droupadi Murmu and briefed her on Indian armed forces' precision strikes at terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir

The prime minister also separately met the Defence Minister and NSA Ajit Doval and took stock of the evolving situation, sources said.

Retaliating against the Pahalgam terror attack, Indian armed forces early Wednesday carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base in Muridke.

The prime minister had earlier given full operational freedom to the armed forces to decide on the targets, manner and timing of the action against terror in the wake of the Pahalgam attack in which 26 civilians were killed.
India on Wednesday reached out to key global powers, including members of the United Nations Security Council, and apprised them about the reasons behind its military strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack, people familiar with the matter said.

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi chairs a Union cabinet meeting, in New Delhi on Wednesday. Photograph: ANI Photo

New Delhi also conveyed to the countries that it will retaliate if Islamabad escalates the already tense situation, they said.

Hours after the military strikes carried out under Operation Sindoor, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke to his counterparts from Germany, Japan, France and Spain and briefed them about the action against the terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval dialled his counterparts from the United States, China, the United Kingdom, Russia and Saudi Arabia.

Doval told his counterparts from these countries that India has no intent to escalate tensions but it is prepared to 'retaliate resolutely' if Pakistan does so, the people said.

NSA Doval held separate phone conversation with US NSA and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi, Russian NSA Sergei Shoigu, British NSA Jonathan Powell, Saudi NSA Musaed Al-Aiban, United Arab Emirates NSA Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Japan's NSA Masataka Okano and Emmanuel Bonne, diplomatic adviser to the French president.

It is learnt that Doval provided some details about the Operation Sindoor, the people said.

"The NSA briefed his counterparts on actions taken and the method of execution, which were measured, non-escalatory and restrained. He emphasised India had no intent to escalate but is well prepared to retaliate resolutely should Pakistan decide to escalate," one of the people said.

In his conversations with France's Jean-Noel Barrot, Germany's Johann Wadephul, Japan's Takeshi Iwaya, Spain's Jose Manuel Albares and Qatar's Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Jaishankar discussed India's action against the cross-border terrorist infrastructure.

"Appreciated their solidarity and support in the wake of the Pahalgam terrorist attack. Discussed ensuring zero tolerance for terrorism," Jaishankar said in a social media post after his joint call with Barrot and Wadephul.

The Japanese foreign ministry said Tokyo is "deeply concerned" that the recent series of events could lead to further "reprisals and escalate into a full-scale military conflict."

"Japan strongly urges both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and stabilise the situation through dialogue for the peace and stability in South Asia," it said.

"Japan will continue to monitor the situation closely while taking all possible measures to protect Japanese nationals abroad," it said.

Separately, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri briefed the ambassadors of 13 permanent and non-permanent members of the UN Security Council.

The envoys included Chinese ambassador Xu Feihong and Russian ambassador Denis Alipov.

It is learnt that Misri apprised the envoys about the reasons behind India's decision to carry out the military strikes on the terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK.

Misri is believed to have told them that New Delhi's response was targeted, measured and non-escalatory.

Earlier at a media briefing, the foreign secretary said India decided to carry out the 'proportionate' strikes to bring the perpetrators and planners of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack to justice as there was 'no demonstrable step' from Pakistan to act against terrorist infrastructure on territories under its control.

Misri said India's actions were in line with the UN Security Council's statement about holding perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of the Pahalgam terror attack accountable.

Under 'Operation Sindoor', the Indian military targeted Markaz Taiba of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in Muridke, Markaz Subhan Allah of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in Bahawalpur and Hizbul Mujahideen's Mehmoona Joya Facility in Sialkot and LeT's base in Markaz Ahle Hadith in Barnala and its camp in Muzaffarabad's Shawai Nalla, military officials said.
Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) chief Maulana Masood Azhar acknowledged on Wednesday that 10 members of his family and four close associates were killed in India's missile attack on the outfit's headquarters in Bahawalpur.

IMAGE: Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Maulana Masood Azhar.

A statement attributed to Azhar said those killed in the attack on Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur included the JeM chief's elder sister and her husband, a nephew and his wife, another niece, and five children from his extended family.

The statement further mentioned that the attack also claimed the lives of one of Azhar's close associates and his mother, along with two other close companions.

"This act of brutality has broken all boundaries. There should be no expectation of mercy now," it added.

Bahawalpur became the hub of the JeM after the release of Azhar in exchange for the hijacked passengers of IC-814 in 1999.

In May 2019, the United Nations designated Azhar a "global terrorist" after China lifted its hold on a proposal to blacklist the JeM chief, a decade after New Delhi approached the world body for the first time on the issue.

The elusive Azhar, who has not been seen in public since April 2019, is believed to be hiding in a "safe place" in Bahawalpur.

The group has been involved in a series of terror attacks in India, including the Parliament attack in 2001, the strike on the Jammu and Kashmir assembly in 2000, the attack on the IAF base in Pathankot in 2016 and the Pulwama suicide bombing in 2019.

Meanwhile, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari said that all those injured in the Bahawalpur attack have been shifted to Victoria Hospital and given the best treatment.

The Pakistan military said that 26 people were killed and 46 others injured in the attack.
The Pakistan Army personnel and members of the banned Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) of Hafiz Saeed on Wednesday attended the funeral of three persons killed in the Indian military strikes on the terror group's headquarters in Muridke, some 40 km from Lahore.

IMAGE: People offer funeral prayers for a man killed in an Indian strike in Muzaffarabad, PoK, May 7, 2025. Photograph: Stringer/Reuters

The funeral prayer for Qari Abdul Malik, Khalid and Mudassir was held in Muridke amid high security, said Tabish Qayyum, spokesperson of the Pakistan Markazi Muslim League, a political wing of JuD.

Members of the civil bureaucracy were also present at the funeral, said Qayyum, who also attended the event.

The funeral prayer was led by Hafiz Abdul Rauf, with prayers offered for the safety and security of the country.

Qayyum said the three persons were sleeping in a room adjacent to the mosque when the Indian attack occurred and the mosque was destroyed.

He said Malik, Khalid, and Mudassir, believed to be members of the JuD, served as the mosque's prayer leaders and caretakers.

After the funeral, the bodies were sent to their native areas for burial.
Pakistan on Wednesday summoned the Indian charge d'affaires and lodged a strong protest against the Indian military strikes.

IMAGE: Rescuers search for survivors in a building damaged in an Indian military strike in Muridke near Lahore, Pakistan, May 7, 2025. Photograph: Mohsin Raza/Reuters

The army said that at least 26 people were killed and 46 injured in the strikes launched shortly after midnight on cities in Pakistan's Punjab and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The Indian charge d'affaires was summoned to the ministry of foreign affairs on Wednesday to receive Pakistan's strong protest over the Indian strikes at multiple locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, the Pak foreign office said in a statement.

It said that these strikes resulted in the deaths and injuries of several civilians, including women and children.

It was conveyed that India's act constituted a clear violation of Pakistan's sovereignty. Such actions are in contravention of the UN Charter, international law, and established norms governing inter-State relations, the FO said.

Indian armed forces early Wednesday carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 that killed 26 people.
The armed forces' Operation Sindoor drew adulation from opposition leaders across party lines as they sent out a message of unity and expressed resolve to stand with the government on national security.

IMAGE: People burn fire crackers as they celebrate the success of 'Operation Sindoor', in Bikaner. Photograph: ANI Photo

The Congress, Left parties, Samajwadi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party, Trinamool Congress, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Rashtriya Janata Dal, Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray and the Nationalist Congress Party-Sharadchandra Pawar hailed the action in unison while asserting their wholehearted support to any step to cull terror.

The Left, while pointing out the importance of maintaining the country's unity and integrity, called for stemming further escalation of the tension between the two neighbours and suggested pursuing diplomatic avenues for peace in the region.

India's armed forces destroyed nine terrorist infrastructures, including that of Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba, in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in a 25-minute-long missile and drone strike early on Wednesday.

The strikes, which India has described as 'measured, non-escalatory, proportionate, and responsible', came in retaliation to the dastardly April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

At an urgently-convened meeting of the Congress Working Committee to discuss the strikes, top leaders said they extend all support to the armed forces and the government in preserving the safety, unity and integrity of the country.

The highest decision-making body of the Congress also chose to halt all scheduled party programmes in solidarity with the armed forces.

"We are proud of the Indian armed forces who have given a befitting reply by taking a bold and decisive action against the terror camps of Pakistan and PoK under 'Operation Sindoor'.

"We salute the courage, determination and patriotism of our brave soldiers," Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge said after the meeting as he stressed the need for unity at all levels to protect India's integrity.

While promising to 'put all our strength behind our soldiers to protect the country' the leader of the opposition in the Rajya Sabha stressed that everyone was united in this matter.

Rahul Gandhi expressed support and best wishes for the armed forces.

'Complete support from the Congress party and the Congress Working Committee,' he said.

Party leader Jairam Ramesh saluted the military for the targeted operation and said that national unity and solidarity were of utmost importance at this critical juncture.

'Our leaders have always placed national interest above all and shown the country the path of unity and resolve,' he said in a post on X.

Veteran leader and NCP-SP chief Sharad Pawar said no country could remain a mute spectator in the aftermath of a terror attack and now a message has gone out to the world that 'India is aggressive'.

In a social media post, Pawar said he spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh over the operation and assured his party's full support to the government in these testing times.

"While responding to these terrorist attacks, it was necessary to take steps cautiously. All these strikes have taken place on the terrorist camps in POK that are supported by Pakistan," Pawar, a former defence minister, told reporters in Pune.

"After these air strikes, a message has been sent in the world that India is aggressive," he said.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who has had several confrontations with the Modi government, sent out a message of unity in the war against terror.

"We all should together fight the battle against terrorism, and there should not be any differences among us," she said.

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam president and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin welcomed the action. "With our Army, for our nation. Tamil Nadu stands resolute."

Aam Aadmi Party supremo Arvind Kejriwal echoed similar sentiments and declared on X that '140 crore Indians stand with the Indian Army in this fight against terrorism'.

Punjab Chief Minister and AAP leader Bhagwant Mann sent out a similar message on the platform as did Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal.

Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejashvi Yadav issued a video statement to say that India and its Army have never tolerated any form of terrorism or separatist movement in the country, nor will they ever do so.

"The Indian Army has always protected the wombs of mothers and the vermilion (Sindoor) on their foreheads," he said.

"We believe in truth, non-violence, and peace. Those who foster terrorism. If they strike at our unity, integrity, and sovereignty, we know how to unite and deliver a befitting response," he said.

Shiv Sena-UBT leader Sanjay Raut accused PM Modi and the BJP, accusing them of politicising the 2019 Pulwama terror attack and warned against doing the same over the Pahagam massacre.

"The entire credit (of avenging the Pahalgam terror attack) goes to the Indian Army. If any party or any government tries to take political credit for it then you are doing injustice to the dead," he said.

The party's president Uddhav Thackeray said the armed forces' action against terror hideouts was a 'proud moment'.

"The Indian armed forces are capable of dealing with all kinds of situations, and Operation Sindoor has demonstrated that. Salute to the valour of the Indian armed forces."

The Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party also praised the military for 'Operation Sindoor'.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah saluted the armed forces for the precision strikes and said that terror has 'no place in our land, and India will respond with strength and unity'.

'Their (armed forces') heroic action reaffirms that India will never tolerate terror in any form,' he said on 'X'.

The Communist Party of India-Marxist pointed out the armed forces' assertion that the retaliatory strikes were focused, measured and non-escalatory to call on the government to ensure that the unity and integrity of the country are protected.

"In the all-party meeting convened by the Union Government, all political parties had extended support to the measures taken by it against the terrorists and their handlers."

The Communist Party of India (CPI) said, "We reiterate the importance of pursuing diplomatic avenues to prevent further escalation and preserve peace in our region and also to arrive at political solutions."
In a late-night development Wednesday, the Pakistan government has closed its airspace for all commercial flights at Lahore and Islamabad airports.

IMAGE: A damaged portion of an administration block at the Government Health and Education complex, in Muridke near Lahore, on May 7, 2025. Photograph: Gibran Peshimam/Reuters

"The country's airspace is closed for all commercial flights at Lahore and Islamabad airports," said the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) in a statement late Wednesday night.

The Karachi airport is however operational.

Pakistan earlier on Wednesday announced a 48-hour closure of its airspace for all air traffic after India carried out a military strike on terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

The PAA said that it has formally conveyed its concerns to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) regarding the 'serious risks' posed to civil aviation safety by India's 'reckless and provocative actions'.

Indian armed forces early Wednesday carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor.

It was launched in retaliation for the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 26 people.
Heavy Pakistani shelling in the border district of Poonch in Jammu and Kashmir left behind a trail of destruction on Wednesday.

IMAGE: A view of a damaged house after civilian areas targeted by the Pakistan army as they continue to violate the ceasefire, in Rajouri. Photographs: ANi Photo

Nine people were killed and 28 others injured in the cross-border artillery and mortar shelling in this worst-hit border district, soon after India launched Operation Sindoor' early Wednesday to hit nine terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in retaliation to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people.

The Pakistani shelling was not only restricted to Poonch, but was also witnessed in the forward areas of nearby Rajouri district in Jammu region, and Uri, Karnah and Tangdhar sectors in Kupwara district.

The indiscriminate shelling, described by residents and officials as barbaric and cowardly, started around 2 am in the entire border belt, leaving dozens of residential houses damaged with their inhabitants running for cover after being woken up by the deafening sound of explosions.

The Pakistani response involved the use of heavy artillery and mortars, targeting dozens of forward villages and densely-populated civilian areas in Mankote, Mendhar, Thandi Kassi and Poonch city, a police officer monitoring the situation on the ground said.

The shelling left a trail of destruction -- damaged houses, broken shops, burnt vehicles, bloodstains, and debris-littered streets. Even heritage sites like the Poonch Fort and ancient temples were not spared.

Targeting unarmed civilians is not bravery. It was is a cowardly act by Pakistan, the officer said.

The residents in Poonch city reported a sleepless and terrifying night with shells exploding in close quarters, echoing through the hills.

It was like a war zone with the injured screaming for help and families forced to look for cover. The damage could be seen everywhere, Mohd Zahid, a local resident, said as he thanked his luck for escaping the shelling.

More than 150 residents of Dhaki have shifted to the homes of their relatives after over a dozen residential houses were damaged by the shelling.

We were not expecting such a situation at the dead of the night. We were lucky to survive the shelling and, therefore, it was better to move to some safer place for the time being, said Khurshid Ahmad, a resident of Dhaki.

Shells also landed near the UN station and forest department buildings in Poonch, causing extensive damage to both the structures.

Five of the shelling victims, including two minor siblings -- Mohd Zain Khan (10) and his elder sister Zoya Khan (12) - died in the vicinity of the town.

Pakistan is retaliating to India's operation by targeting the civilian population. They missed the military targets and shelled us heavily overnight, killing our people and injuring many. The damage to our homes and property is massive," said Sardar Navneet Singh from Mankote.

Mankote reported the first of the nine deaths in the Pakistani shelling when a mortar shell hit the house of Kala Singh, killing his wife Balvinder Kour and injuring their 13-year-old daughter.

Mohammad Sadiq, a forest guard, said two of his colleagues were wounded after shells exploded near their office. Many frightened residents have started fleeing their homes in search of safer zones.

We are moving to safer places. There's fear everywhere, Maqbool Ahmed, who left Poonch with his family in a private vehicle, said.

Videos circulating on social media showed the horror unfolding in the affected areas, drawing widespread outrage.

Fire service teams have been deployed to control the blazes sparked by the shells. The local administration is coordinating the relief efforts, even as the situation remains tense with intermittent shells still hitting the area.

National Conference MLA Aijaz Jan said, The situation is worrisome given the damage caused by the shelling. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is closely monitoring the developments.

Former Jammu and Kashmir DGP S P Vaid condemned Pakistan for targeting the civilian population.

The Indian forces hit terrorist targets like the headquarters of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), which have targeted security forces and innocent civilians in Jammu and Kashmir for the past 35 years, he said, hailing Prime Minister Narendra Modi for keeping his promise of avenging the Pahalgam killings.

However, Vaid said that Pakistan once again exposed its behaviour by targeting civilians living close to the border.

The Indian Army is responding in equal measure to the ceasefire violations, officials said, reaffirming that civilian safety remained its top priority.
People in some border villages of Ferozepur district in Punjab began moving to safer areas amid soaring tensions between India and Pakistan.

IMAGE: Punjab Police stand guard after the closure of Sri Guru Ramdas Ji International Airport in Amritsar on Wednesday. Photograph: Raminder Pal Singh/ANI Photo

Other villagers near the International Border (IB) with Pakistan in Amritsar and Tarn Taran border districts, however, remained calm with people carrying on with routine work on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Punjab Cabinet Minister Aman Arora said that all border districts have been put on high alert with all public events cancelled.

Arora lauded the Indian armed forces for its strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, and said all three crore Punjabis stand firmly with the army.

"Whenever the unity, integrity, and security of the nation is threatened, Punjabis always step forward, even sacrificing their lives," Arora said in a statement.

Indian armed forces early Wednesday carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base in Muridke.

Villagers in Ferozepur said they have begun shifting their belongings despite no official evacuation orders from the Border Security Force, Indian Army or any government agency so far.

They said the decision to move, especially women and children, was their own.

Tendi Wala, Kalu Wala, Gatti Rajo Ke, Jhugge Hazara, Navi Gatti Rajo Ke, Gatti Rahime Ke, Chandiwala, Basti Bhanewali, Jallo Ke were among the villages from where people were leaving.

Kakku Singh (63), a resident of Babmha Haji village in the Mamdot area, said that he had come to meet his two daughters who had been married in Kalu Wala.

Notably, Kalu Wala village is surrounded by the Sutlej river from three sides and Pakistan on the fourth.

"When I heard the news about India's action in the morning, I was worried about my daughter and their families. Now I have come here not only to meet them but also ensure that they go to my village till the time the situation becomes normal," said Kakku Singh.

Pachho Bai (58), an elderly lady from Tendi Wala village, who had been packing the clothes along with her daughter-in-law, said that she is feeling concerned because their house is situated just 2 km away from the IB.

"We are six members in the family. My husband and my son have gone to work right now but we are planning to move soon to the house of some relative. This is why I am doing the packing work," said Pachho Bai.

Some villagers could be seen taking their belongings like beds, coolers, washing machines, fridge, food grain containers on tractor trolleys to their relatives.

However, there were many villagers who despite the tense situation between the two neighbouring nations, were keeping their spirits high.

Surjeet Singh from Tendi Wala village said he is proud of the Indian Army.

Ferozepur Deputy Commissioner, Deepshikha Sharma Wednesday said that there is no reason for panic in the district as of now.

She said that neither the Army nor the district administration has issued any directive to evacuate border villages and assured that the entire administration is fully alert and prepared.

In border villages in Amritsar and Tarn Taran districts, however, people remained calm.

Gurmeet Singh, a resident of the border village Chinna Bidhi Chand in Tarn Taran, said there was no panic in the village.

Children were at their homes due to the school closure announced by the district administration.

Sucha Singh, who lives in the border village Naushera Dhalla in Tarn Taran, said people are busy with their day-to-day work and farmers are in their fields.

He said no government official has asked them to leave their homes or move to safer places.

Another villager in the border village in Tarn Taran district said no one asked them to leave home.

"There is a peaceful situation in the village," said the villager.

Border villages of Attari, Mahawa, Pul Mohra and Bikhwind in Amritsar district also appeared calm.

At Attari, a villager said they were getting calls from relatives from other places to know about the situation.

The situation was peaceful and they were not scared at all, he said.

However, farmers who have agricultural land beyond the barbed fencing were not allowed to go to their fields as gates remained shut at all the Indo-Pakistan borders of Amritsar and Tarn Taran districts.

The Amritsar international airport has been closed and the director of the airport communicated in writing that all commercial, civil domestic and international flight operations are suspended till 5.30 am on May 10.

All educational institutions remained shut on the order of the Deputy Commissioner in Amritsar. Meanwhile, people queued up at some fuel pumps to refuel their vehicles.

The military strikes, code-named Operation Sindoor, were conducted early Wednesday two weeks after 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed in a terror attack in Kashmir's Pahalgam.
Mock drills simulating multiple hostile scenarios like air raids, fire emergencies, and search and rescue operations among others were carried out in several states and Union Territories (UTs) as part of the nationwide mega civil defence mock drill 'Operation Abhyaas'.

IMAGE: School students take part in a nationwide civil defence mock drill, in Patna on Wednesday. Photograph: ANI Photo

The mock drills which were announced by the Ministry of Home affairs on Monday took place a few hours after the Indian military launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in a strong response to the terror attack in Pahalgam.

The April 22 attack, carried out by the terror organisation The Resistance Front, killed 26 civilians.

The exercise was carried out in several states and UTs including Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Assam, Mizoram, Tripura, Nagaland, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur.

In the national capital Delhi, PCR vans and fire engines were stationed at multiple locations while there was a heavy deployment of security personnel and civil defence volunteers.

Blaring sirens, residents rushing to safer places, injured people being carried away on stretchers -- these were some of the scenes that played out across the 55 locations where mock security drills were carried out by authorities in Delhi.

Delhi Fire Services cranes were used to reach high-rise buildings and evacuate people who were 'trapped'.

IMAGE: National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel conduct a nationwide civil defence mock drill, at Khan Market in New Delhi on Wednesday. Photograph: Jitender Gupta/ANI Photo

Sirens were sounded at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. Fire brigade teams rushed to the spot along with a team of doctors and ambulances.

Students and teachers across Delhi took part in the safety drill aimed at strengthening emergency preparedness that included practising orderly evacuations, taking shelter under desks, and switching off electrical appliances when the siren sounded.

In an unprecedented sight later in the evening, a 15-minute power blackout was observed in many areas of the national capital, including entire Lutyens' Delhi.

The exercise left the New Delhi area housing Parliament, India Gate, embassies and key administrative buildings dark as part of a nationwide civil defence mock drill.

The blackout, which took place from 8 pm to 8.15 pm, was carried out by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) to simulate emergency wartime conditions.

The nationwide drill was conducted on the instructions of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), which had asked all states and Union Territories to organise such exercises in light of the "new and complex threats" following the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.

Training of civilians in the event of hostile attacks, provision of crash blackout measures, early camouflaging of vital installations, verifying the response of civil defence services, evaluating the preparedness of evacuation plans and their execution were also noted to be examined during the drill.

Close to 300 'civil defence districts' across the country with sensitive installations like nuclear plants, military bases, refineries and hydroelectric dams were covered by mock drills on air-raid warning sirens, civilian training for a 'hostile attack' and cleaning of bunkers and trenches.

In Punjab, mock drills simulating emergency scenarios, like fire emergencies, and rescue operations were performed in Ferozepur, Ludhiana, Amritsar, Bathinda, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Patiala, Pathankot, Barnala and Mohali.

Mumbai saw mock drills at strategic locations, including the railway stations.

IMAGE: A mock drill being conducted at Deva Nagri College in Meerut. Photograph: ANI Photo

A civil defence team from the Central Railway organised a mock drill at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), one of the busiest stations and the site of the 26/11 terrorist attack, to test the preparedness of security forces in case of an emergency.

CSMT is one of the country's busiest railway hubs and was the site of the deadly terrorist attacks in November 2008. Every day, lakhs of suburban commuters and outstation passengers travel through this station.

In Bengaluru, authorities carried out a large-scale civil defence mock drill at various locations in the city.

According to officials, soon after the siren blew at 3.48 pm in various locations, the civil defence personnel, police, fire and emergency services personnel swung into action. The drill went on for about half-an-hour.

Senior officials held security drills at two key installations in Tamil Nadu -- the Madras Atomic Power Station at Kalpakkam and the Chennai port.

Mock drill was staged in Andhra Pradesh's Visakhapatnam with personnel from several departments enacting rescue operations amid a simulated bomb attack scenario.

Rehearsals were conducted across Hyderabad, the Telangana capital, to test emergency preparedness.

Rescue personnel evacuated people and shifted the 'injured' in civil defence mock drills involving the police, fire services, and disaster response forces in four locations in the city.

IMAGE: Medical staff take part in a mock drill at RML Hospital in New Delhi. Photograph: ANI Photo

Mock drills were held at important locations in 14 districts of Kerala.

At the Collectorate building in Ernakulam, the drill started with an alarm and the lights were switched off.

In the eastern part of the country, evacuation drills were conducted by four private schools in Kolkata. The drills were conducted at DPS-Ruby Park, La Martiniere for Boys, La Martiniere for Girls and Future Foundation School.

In Ranchi, the exercise was held in Doranda area, under drizzling weather conditions. Traffic routes were diverted to facilitate the simulation.

Civil defence mock drills were conducted in 12 districts of Odisha which included Bhubaneswar, Sambalpur and Rourkela.

The Assam Police's Home Guard and Civil Defence wing led the drill in association with various other agencies like fire services, health department, disaster management, BSNL and DIPR, among others.

Mock drills were carried out at a few designated locations in Mizoram's Aizawl in a two-km stretch, an official said.

As part of the exercise, there was a blackout for five minutes from 6:30 pm in Aizawl, he said.
A record-breaking population of some of the world's smallest and rarest marsupials was discovered in a rugged national park.

Walking across the boulder fields of the Snow Ridge Hill site in search of possums during the recent expedition was hard going. Source: Justine Hauser

An expedition across some of Australias most rugged boulder fields has resulted in a remarkable discovery. Under the shadow of the nations tallest mountain, Mount Kosciuszko, researchers have documented a record number of some of the worlds smallest and rarest marsupials.

Mountain pygmy possums are thought to have dropped from 1,000 to 700 as a result of two crippling blows that affected the species habitat and main food source. The first was the scorching of their stronghold in the Kosciuszko National Park during the 2019-2020 Black Summer bushfires, and the second was the sudden demise of the once-plentiful bogong moth.

So when an expedition led by veteran scientist Dr Linda Broome discovered 107 possums at a single site, she was left feeling elated. It is heartening to see mountain pygmy-possum numbers thriving again, she said.

Pictures supplied to Yahoo News from the most recent survey, and the 2023 expedition, highlight the fragile environment, up in the clouds where the possums live. Weighing between 30 and 40 grams, and smaller than two human fingers, to the untrained eye, they are easy to miss.

Pictures from the 2023 expedition highlight the rough conditions researchers encountered during the possum population surveys. Source: Alex Pike

The tiny possums are difficult for the untrained eye to spot. Source: Alex Pike

Broome is approaching the end of her career after dedicating almost half her working life to studying mountain pygmy possums. While the discovery is great news for the species, it comes with a warning that the fight to save them is "far from over".

ADVERTISEMENT

"We will continue our work to support these possums and strengthen their population, ensuring these iconic marsupials have the best chance of long-term survival," she said.

What's helped populations of mountain pygmy possums grow?

Broome is a threatened species officer with the NSW Department of Environment. Her pygmy possum count was completed with support from national parks staff and volunteers.

Environment Minister Penny Sharpe welcomed news of the recent count. Its wonderful to see the population of mountain pygmy possums showing signs of recovery thanks to important conservation work, she said.

ADVERTISEMENT

Supplying the possums with a hand-baked alternative food called bogong bickies is believed to be a key reason for the healthy population. The project was developed by Saving Our Species, National Parks and Wildlife Service, and local kids from Berridale Public School, Cooma Public School, Adaminaby Public School and Jindabyne Central School.

Remarkably, the combined population at its two main habitats is now estimated to be 940. But as the weather cools, a new man-made problem threatens to hamper the species' recovery at another site. Fresh warnings have been issued for snowboarders to stay out of a closed habitat at Blue Cow, where numbers are still low.

Snowboarders are being urged to stay away from fields where possum populations are still recovering. Source: Dr Broome

Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment?  Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories.
Pragati Jagdale, whose husband Santosh was one of the 26 people killed in the Pahalgam terrorist attack, on Wednesday described 'Operation Sindoor' as a fitting tribute to the victims.

IMAGE: People celebrate India's Operation Sindoor against Pakistan in Rajasthan . Photograph: ANI on X

"Through Operation Sindoor, a tribute has been paid to those who were killed in the Pahalgam attack. I am thankful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for carrying out Operation Sindoor. I am thankful that our emotions have been understood. Our sindoor was wiped out by terrorists but today I am very happy that under Operation Sindoor, our armed forces destroyed terrorists' bases in Pakistan," said Jagdale.

Terror headquarters of banned Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen were targeted under 'Operation Sindoor' with IAF hitting nine hideouts located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir, officials said here on Wednesday.

Pragati said she knew that India will take revenge for the terrorist attack in Pahalgam.

Asavari Jagdale, the couple's daughter, said India responded to the terror attack within 15 days.

"I am very thankful and feel proud that our armed forces have given a befitting reply through air strikes," she said.

Sangita Ganbote, wife of Kaustubh Ganbote who was another Pune resident to be killed in the April 22 Pahalgam attack, said they were extremely happy that India avenged the Pahalgam terrorist attack in which she and other women lost their "sindoor".

"We were all waiting to see when India would avenge the terrorist attack. Today, with Operation Sindoor, the Indian armed forces gave a befitting reply to the cowardly attack in Pahalgam," she said.

Harshal Lele, who lost his father and two uncles in the Pahalgam terror attack, expressed a sense of closure.

"I am satisfied, my late father would now be at peace," said Lele, who saw his father and uncles being shot before his eyes on April 22.

"One of my uncles pleaded with the terrorists to let them go, but he was shot dead. No mercy was shown to him, nor to my other uncle or my father," he recalled.

"I am happy with the way Operation Sindoor was carried out. The nine locations from where these terrorists operated were struck. It is our expectation that more such actions should be taken," he told reporters in Dombivli, Thane district.

Harshal's father Sanjay Lele and his relatives Atul Mone and Hemant Joshi were among the 27 persons who lost their lives in the terrorist attack on April 22.

Navi Mumbai resident Subodh Patil (60), who was injured in the neck during the Pahalgam attack, also expressed satisfaction.

"I am not able to speak much, but I will say it is good that India took revenge," he told PTI, adding it was a tribute to the innocent lives lost in the terror attack.

Arathy, daughter of N Ramachandran who was gunned down by terrorists in Kashmir's Pahalgam, welcomed Indian Army's "Operation Sindoor" and expressed hope that it would bring some relief to the families of those killed in front of them.

She also extended a "big salute" to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Indian Army and the union government for the missile strikes against terror camps in Pakistan and Pak-occupied Kashmir.

Arathy also said there won't be any other suitable title for the strikes other than "Operation Sindoor".

There could have been no befitting reply other than this to the terrorism which had killed our fathers, brothers or husbands in front of us, she said.

Arathy also said she and her family are praying for the Army.

"Let all Indians see a comfort in this operation. Let Operation Sindoor bring some comfort and relief to all the families of victims, including Himanshi (Narwal)," she added.

Himanshi's husband was one of those killed in the terror attack and a picture of her sitting besides his lifeless body with a crestfallen face turned out to be the defining image of the deadly incident.

Sumathi, the mother of Manjunath Rao, a Pahalgam terror attack victim welcomed the air strikes carried out by Indian armed forces on nine terror targets in Pakistan and said she had faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

She also said that she did not want her son's "sacrifice" to go waste.

She said, it is not a feeling of satisfaction, as her son who has killed won't come back, but such things should not happen to others' children.

"We had faith that Modi will take right decision and accordingly he has taken. Nothing should happen to innocents, but those who try to oppress or indulge in roguery against us should not be spared. My son's sacrifice should not go waste. I feel that the right decision has been taken," Sumathi told PTI videos.

"We knew that something will be done. We are common people and not big to give suggestions to leaders. We had faith in Modi. It is not a feeling of satisfaction, because my son who has gone won't come back, but such things should not happens to others' children in the future, everyone should be able to travel freely," she added.

Manjunath Rao and Bharath Bushan from Karnataka were among the 26 people killed in front of their families in Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22. Most of those killed by terrorists were tourists.

The wife of Pahalgam terrorist attack victim Sushil Nathaniel on Wednesday said she wanted the four terrorists who killed her husband dead too.

"Whatever that has happened is right, but those four people (terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack) should also be eliminated," said Nathaniel's wife Jennifer (54).

"These four people did what even an animal would not do. I just want an account of this and these people should also get the same punishment. These four people should also die," she said.

Sushil Nathaniel worked as a manager with Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) in Alirajpur, about 200 km from Indore.
Sheikh Sajjad Gul, a 50-year-old Kashmiri and head of Lashkar-e-Tayiba proxy The Resistance Front (TRF), has emerged as the mastermind of the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 people, mostly tourists, on April 22, officials said on Wednesday.

Holed up in the Cantonment town of Rawalpindi, Pakistan, under the patronage of Lashkar-e-Tayiba (LeT), Gul, who also goes by the alias of Sajjad Ahmed Sheikh, has been a planner of a number of terror attacks, including targeted killings between 2020 and 2024 in central and south Kashmir, grenade attacks in central Kashmir in 2023, ambush of J&K police personnel in Bijbehra in Anantnag, Gagangir, and the Z-Morh tunnel attack in Ganderbal.

The NIA had designated him a terrorist in April 2022 and kept a reward of Rs 10 lakh on his head.

The official said that during the investigation into the deadly April 22 Pahalgam attack, links and some communications have been traced back to Gul. The TRF had claimed responsibility for the attack.

The group, under Gul's instruction, had shot 25 tourists at point-blank range after asking their religion in Pahalgam on April 22. A local tourist guide was also killed by the terrorists.

Used by Pakistan's external snooping agency ISI as a Kashmiri face of the local Punjabi-dominated Lashkar-e-Tayiba, Sheikh was educated in Srinagar and did his MBA from Bangalore, later pivoting to a lab technician course in Kerala. He returned to the Valley, where he opened a diagnostic lab and started providing logistical support to the terror group.

During his work as an overground worker (OGW) of the terror group, Gul was caught by the special cell of the Delhi police in 2002 from Nizamuddin Railway Station with 5 kg of RDX. It was revealed that he was conducting a recce and conspiring to conduct serial blasts in the national capital, for which he was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment on August 7, 2003.

He moved to Pakistan after his release from prison in 2017, where the ISI chose him to lead a proxy of the LeT -- The Resistance Front (TRF) -- in Kashmir in 2019 to give it a facade of an indigenous terror movement of Jammu and Kashmir.

The creation of the TRF was a strategy of the ISI in the aftermath of the Pulwama incident in February 2019, when Pakistan had come to the adverse notice of the world for sponsoring and harbouring terror outfits like LeT and JeM.

Gul's brother, an ex-doctor in Shri Maharaja Hari Singh Hospital, Srinagar, was also a terrorist in the 1990s and had migrated to Saudi Arabia and later to Pakistan, where he is now involved in terror funding with fugitives in Gulf countries.
China on Wednesday called on India and Pakistan to exercise maximum restraint in the "larger interest of peace and stability" in the region.

IMAGE: Rescuers wheel a body towards an ambulance after it was recovered from a building hit by an Indian strike in Muridke near Lahore, Pakistan, May 7, 2025. Photograph: Mohsin Raza/Reuters

The statement by China's Foreign Ministry came as Indian armed forces early Wednesday carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack.

We are concerned about the ongoing situation. India and Pakistan are and will always be each other's neighbours. They are both China's neighbours as well," the statement said.

China opposes all forms of terrorism," it added, in an apparent reference to the Pahalgam terrorist attack.

We urge both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, remain calm, exercise restraint and refrain from taking actions that may further complicate the situation," it said.

China finds India's military operation early this morning regrettable," the statement added.

Since the Pahalgam terrorist attack, China, Pakistan's ironclad ally, while condemning it, has called for restraint, besides a fair and swift investigation into the attack.

The two countries also stepped up diplomatic contacts during the past few days.

While, Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar called China's top diplomat Wang Yi over phone and briefed him on April 27, Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari.

In his talks with Dar, Wang stated that China is closely following the developments. He said that combating terrorism is a shared responsibility of the whole world, and China supports an impartial investigation as soon as possible, as the conflict does not serve the fundamental interests of either India or Pakistan, nor does it contribute to regional peace and stability.

As an ironclad friend and an all-weather strategic cooperative partner, China fully understands Pakistan's legitimate security concerns and supports Pakistan in safeguarding its sovereignty and security interests, Wang said.

The escalation following the Pahalgam terrorist attack came as Chinese President Xi Jinping is due to leave for Russia on a four-day visit on Wednesday to take part in the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union in World War II.

Xi is also due to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, with whom he shares a close personal friendship.
Pakistan is ready to "wrap up" tensions with India, if New Delhi de-escalates the situation, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said on Wednesday.

His remarks came hours after India carried out a military strike on terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Asif was reported as saying by Bloomberg Television that Pakistan will only respond if attacked.

"We have been saying all along in the last fortnight that we'll never initiate anything hostile towards India. But if we're attacked, we'll respond. If India backs down, we will definitely wrap up this tension," he said.

Regarding the possibility of talks, the minister said he was not aware of any such potential engagements.

Indian armed forces early Wednesday carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and PoK in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people, mostly tourists.

Pakistan Army spokesman Lt Gen Ahmad Sharif Chaudhry in a media interaction said at least 26 people were killed and 46 injured in the missile strikes by India.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said his armed forces know very well how to deal with the enemy".

"Pakistan has every right to give a befitting reply to this act of war imposed by India, and a strong response is indeed being given," he said.

"We will never let the enemy succeed in its nefarious objectives," he added.

Following the Pahalgam terror attack, India announced a raft of punitive measures against Pakistan, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, shutting down of the only operational land border crossing at Attari and downgrading of diplomatic ties.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had told the top defence brass that the armed forces have "complete operational freedom" to decide on the mode, targets and timing of India's response to the attack.
World leaders, including United Nations chief Antonio Guterres and United States President Donald Trump, on Wednesday called on India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and hoped that the hostilities would end 'very quickly'.

IMAGE: School teachers celebrate the success of 'Operation Sindoor', in Bikaner on Wednesday. Photograph: ANI Photo

"The Secretary-General is very concerned about the Indian military operations across the Line of Control and the international border. He calls for maximum military restraint from both countries. The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan," the secretary-general's spokesman, Stephane Dujarric, said.

US President Trump said he hopes that the hostilities will end 'very quickly'.

"It's a shame, he said, adding, "We heard about it just as we were walking in the doors of the Oval (Office). I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past."



"They've been fighting for a long time. They've been fighting for many, many decades and centuries, actually, if you really think about it," Trump said.

Asked if he has any message for the countries, he said, "No, I just hope it ends very quickly."

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he was closely monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan.

Russia also expressed deep concern at the escalation of military confrontation between India and Pakistan in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack.

"We are deeply concerned about the intensifying military confrontation between India and Pakistan after the terrorist attack near the city of Pahalgam," Russia Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova was quoted as saying by state-run news agency TASS.

"We call on the parties involved to exercise restraint in order to prevent further deterioration of the situation in the region.

"We hope that the differences between New Delhi and Islamabad will be resolved through peaceful, political and diplomatic means on a bilateral basis in accordance with the provisions of the Simla Agreement of 1972 and the Lahore Declaration of 1999," the spokesperson said in a statement in the wake of 'Operation Sindoor'.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the UK is engaging with both India and Pakistan to push for dialogue and de-escalation.

"Rising tensions between India and Pakistan will be of serious concern for many across Britain. We are engaging urgently with both countries, as well as other international partners, encouraging dialogue, de-escalation and the protection of civilians," he told the House of Commons.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said the tensions between India and Pakistan are a serious concern and urged the countries to 'show restraint and engage in direct dialogue to find a swift, diplomatic path forward'.

"The UK has close and unique relationships with both countries. I have made clear to my counterparts in India and Pakistan that if this escalates further, nobody wins. The UK was clear in its condemnation of the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam last month. We need all sides to work urgently to see regional stability restored and ensure protection of civilians," he said.

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds described the situation in Jammu and Kashmir as 'hugely worrying'.

"Our message would be that we are a friend, a partner to both countries. We stand ready to support both countries. Both have a huge interest in regional stability, in dialogue, in de-escalation and anything we can do to support that, we are here and willing to do," he said.

United Kingdom's former prime minister Rishi Sunak said, 'India is justified in striking terrorist infrastructure. There can be no impunity for terrorists.'

'No nation should have to accept terrorist attacks being launched against it from land controlled by another country,' he posted on X.

Scotland's First Minister John Swinney took to social media soon after news of Operation Sindoor hit the headlines in the UK overnight.

'I am deeply concerned by the events in Kashmir tonight and urge calm and dialogue to avoid further conflict,' he said.

The German foreign ministry in a post on X said following the horrific terrorist attack in Kashmir and the Indian military response to it, responsible action from both countries is urgently needed.

'Escalation must be prevented and civilians protected. We are in contact with both India and Pakistan,' it said.

In an interview on TF1 television, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said, "We understand India's desire to protect itself against the scourge of terrorism, but we obviously call on both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint to avoid escalation and, of course, to protect civilians."

The United Arab Emirates asked India and Pakistan 'to exercise restraint, de-escalate tensions, and avoid further escalation that could threaten regional and international peace', according to a statement from United Arab Emirates Deputy Prime Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

'His Highness stressed the importance of heeding the voices calling for dialogue and mutual understanding to prevent military escalation, strengthen stability in South Asia, and avoid further regional tensions,' the statement said.

'His Highness reaffirmed that diplomacy and dialogue remain the most effective means of peacefully resolving crises, and achieving the shared aspirations of nations for peace, stability, and prosperity.'

Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the government 'is closely observing the evolving situation in India and Pakistan' and expresses its deep concern over the situation.

It urged both the countries to 'remain calm, show restraint and refrain from taking any steps that could further aggravate the situation'.

The ministry said, "In the spirit of regional peace, prosperity and stability, Bangladesh remains hopeful that tensions will be defused through diplomatic endeavours, and that peace will ultimately prevail for the benefits of the peoples in the region."

China called on India and Pakistan to exercise maximum restraint in the 'larger interest of peace and stability' of the region and said it will play a "constructive role" in easing the tensions by working with the international community.

"We are concerned about the ongoing situation... India and Pakistan are and will always be each other's neighbours. They are both China's neighbours as well... We urge both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, remain calm, exercise restraint and refrain from taking actions that may further complicate the situation," China's Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Elaborating Beijing's stand, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said China 'stands ready to work with the international community to continue to play a constructive role in easing the current tensions'.

Turkiye's foreign ministry in a statement said it following the developments between Pakistan and India with 'concern'.

'We call on the parties to exercise common sense and refrain from unilateral actions. We expect that measures will be taken to reduce tensions in the region as soon as possible and that the necessary mechanisms, including in the field of counter-terrorism, will be put in place to prevent the recurrence of similar incidents,' it said.

Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement said it is following with deep concern the continued escalation between India and Pakistan, and urged both countries 'to exercise maximum restraint, give priority to the voice of wisdom, respect the principles of good neighbourliness, and resolve the crisis through diplomatic means'.

The ministry emphasised the 'urgent need' to keep communication channels open between India and Pakistan to defuse tensions and address unresolved issues between them through constructive dialogue, 'ultimately leading to comprehensive, consensual, and sustainable solutions'.

It also reiterates Qatar's full support for all regional and international efforts aimed at promoting security, peace, and stability in the region.

Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said the government is following the situation closely while reiterating its condemnation of the terrorist attack in Kashmir last month.

"We are strongly concerned that further retaliatory exchanges will escalate into a full-blown military conflict," the top government spokesman said at a press conference.

"We strongly urge India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and stabilise the situation through dialogue for the peace and stability of South Asia," Hayashi was quoted as saying by the Kyodo News.
Fred Breunig placed 615 small purple flags on the lawn of the Municipal Building in Brattleboro on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Each flag represents 
Christopher Malone Town, village and business reporter Follow Christopher Malone 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

When Kaitlin Hlywa and Joe Wood graduated from Auburn High School in 2014, their classmates claimed the two were the most likely to end up on Broadway.

Just over a decade later, the superlative is fitting. They're almost there.

This month, Wood will direct "Common Wall," a one-act play written by Hlywa and Pat Galante, at the New York Theater Festival. It'll be performed May 21, 24 and 25 at the Hudson Guild Theater.

The debuting play explores the worlds of two women, June and Sky, who live next to each other in a New York City apartment building. Despite the wall separating their living spaces, their lives intertwine.

"It explores the judgments we put on other people," Hlywa told The Citizen during a video call with Wood and Galante.

"Once you get past that, you find out you have more in common than the wall between you."

'Theater is about humanity'

Hlywa and Galante met while taking acting classes at the Chekov Studio. "Common Wall" is not only their first professional attempt at a one-act play, but the first time they've written together.

For Hlywa, the process was difficult and "took bravery." She and Galante had to acknowledge and accept each other's craft, creativity and vulnerabilities.

Pulling from their personal lives was inevitable, Hlywa continued, and separating them from fiction was challenging. But that was instrumental to creating an intimate experience with a live audience, Galante added. Such a setting is the best way to convey their play's message: That fear and insecurity often hold people back from connecting with each other.

"We had a lot of things we wanted to explore," Galante said.

"The walls  physical, psychological, emotional  that we put up intentionally and subconsciously, and how that manifests when people interact."

From a director's perspective, Wood said, expressing what June and Sky feel is difficult technically and emotionally. But by giving the audience a glimpse at the private moments of their lives  moments even their closest friends and families don't see  "Common Wall" makes the two characters relatable.

In a sense, Galante said, June and Sky are in their own separate plays happening at the same time  just like life.

"The world would be a better place if we could all learn that," Wood said.

"Working in theater is about humanity," he continued. "Its about helping teach people or asking people important questions."

'A compelling and meaningful message'

With "Common Wall," Wood and Hlywa have come a long way from their eighth-grade production of "Annie" in Auburn, where he was Daddy Warbucks and she was his secretary, Grace.

"Through middle and high school, we were in every show together, playing opposite of each other," he said.

But Wood didn't agree to direct the one-act play just because he knew its co-writer.

"I read it on the train and cried in front of other people," he said.

"I wouldnt have said yes to doing this if I didnt like it," he continued. "I really want to be involved in art that actually moves me and has a compelling and meaningful message."

Aside from directing, Wood is busy with acting and trying to start a nonprofit theater company. This August, he's directing an eight-part show that Hlywa is helping produce.

The play's writers are keeping busy as well. Hlywa said she caught the writing bug again thanks to "Common Wall," and hopes to continue.

Galante, of Illinois, is producing shows and hopes to take a solo one on tour next year. It also takes some inspiration from her personal life, and social issues.

Similarly, she and Hlywa hope to publish "Common Wall" in the near future and see it performed elsewhere. It doesn't take much to set up, they said, making it accessible for just about any venue.

The Auburn native said she'd like to bring it to her hometown, possibly as part of a performance circuit between western and central New York.

Galante, who's never been to Auburn before, said she's impressed by the amount of support the community has shown for Hlywa and Wood.

It's been really cool for us to come together again in the same way we started," he said.

How to help To contribute to the Kickstarter for "Common Wall," visit kickstarter.com/projects/commonwall/common-wall.
Pakistan said eight people were killed early on May 7 in missile strikes launched by Indian armed forces and called the attack a "blatant act of war" amid mounting tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors.

The fighting was the worst in more than two decades and followed an attack by Islamist assailants that killed 26 Hindu tourists in India-controlled Kashmir last month. India blamed Pakistan-based militants for the deadly attack; Pakistan denied involvement.

India said it struck nine Pakistani sites that were "terrorist infrastructure" from which attacks against it were orchestrated.

India said it also suffered deaths among its civilian population. The army said three civilians were killed by Pakistani troops who resorted to "arbitrary" shelling across the Line of Control, the de facto border that divides Kashmir, which is at the center of an 80-year-old territorial dispute between the two countries, and their international borders.

It added that the Indian Army was "responding in proportionate manner."

The director-general of Pakistans Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmad Sharif, told a news conference that there had been "24 impacts from India on six places" and these resulted in the killing of eight citizens and the wounding of 35. Another eight are missing.

"Pakistan will return a response to the attack," he said before ending the news conference without taking questions.

He did not mention a report that the country's air force shot down Indian jets in retaliation. Pakistani Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said on Xthat three Indian jets and one Indian drone had been shot down by Pakistan.

State Of Emergency

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif scheduled an emergency meeting of the National Security Committee for 10 a.m. local time on May 7.

The chief minister of Punjab Province, Maryam Nawaz, declared a state of emergency in the province, which borders India. All schools, colleges, and universities will be closed. Police and other security agencies have been placed on high alert, and doctors on leave have been asked to report for duty.

Pakistans Foreign Ministry said the attack posed a significant threat to commercial air traffic, and the country suspended all flights and operations at the Lahore and Islamabad airports for 48 hours.

An Indian military statement referred to the military action as Operation Sindoor and said nine sites were hit.

"A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'OPERATION SINDOOR', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," the statement said.

Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistan military facilities have been targeted, the statement said, adding that India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution.

The ISPR said India fired missiles at three locations -- Muzaffarabad, the main city of Pakistan-controlled Kashmir; Kotli, also in Pakistan-administered Kashmir; and Bahawalpur in Punjab Province. The Bahawalpur and Muridke areas are considered centers for the banned groups Jaish-e Muhammad and Lashkar-e Jhangvi.

The attack sounded alarm bells in Washington, where US President Donald Trump said he had been informed about the attack and hopes the fighting "ends very quickly." In New York, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern about the attack and called for maximum restraint from both countries.

"The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan," Guterres said, according to his spokesman.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio contacted Pakistani national-security adviser Lieutenant General Asim Malik, who is also chief of Pakistan's prime intelligence agency, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), to discussed the situation.

Rubio also spoke with his counterpart from India and said he would continue to engage with both New Delhi and Islamabad to reach a resolution to the conflict.

"He is encouraging India and Pakistan to re-open a channel between their leadership to defuse the situation and prevent further escalation," said National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes in a statement.

Soaring Tensions

Tensions have soared between the two countries in the aftermath of the deadly attack on the Hindu tourists.

Hassan Abbas, a professor of international relations at the Near East South Asia Center for Strategic Studies, told RFE/RL that while terrorism must always be condemned, Pakistans hasty framing of the incident as a false-flag operation by India -- without investigation -- is irresponsible. Equally, Indias rush to blame Pakistan without credible evidence only deepens mistrust and raises the risk of escalation, Abbas said.

"We need a different kind of courage now -- the courage to imagine cooperation...not confrontation. In a region facing the twin crises of poverty and climate vulnerability, war is a luxury no one can afford," Abbas said.

Hussain Haqqani, former Pakistani ambassador to the United States and senior fellow at the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy and Hudson Foundation, told RFE/RL that domestic politics on both sides requires the leadership of the two countries to take a nationalistic stance.

The only sane approach in this situation for India is to demonstrate a strike and for Pakistan to respond in a way that the situation should not flare up, Haqqani said.

But if one side strikes, then another responds, and then the other strikes again and it continues, then it could go out of control, he added.

Although the people of the two countries are cheering at the moment, it would be the people who would be hurt the most, because the economies of the two countries will suffer, he said.

Tauseef Ahmad Khan, an author and former head of the Mass Communication Department at Federal Urdu University in Karachi, said that India-Pakistan tensions ignite artificial patriotism.

"The 1.5 billion people of the region -- many living in poverty -- are the real victims of this conflict, Khan said.

Indian media is under the influence of Prime Minister Narendra Modis "Hindutva" ideology, while Pakistani media is tightly controlled by what he called the deep state, Khan told RFE/RL.

"Theres no room left for sanity, he said.

With reporting by Reuters and AP
European Union foreign ministers are gathering in Warsaw on May 7-8 for an informal council meeting and then head to Lviv a day later in a show of solidarity with Ukraine as Russia plays up its Victory Day celebrations.

Neither of the meetings is an official EU council, so they're unlikely to announce anything concrete. But the foreign ministers are expected to get the ball rolling on the creation of a special tribunal to investigate and hold Russia accountable for crimes of aggression committed in Ukraine.

The Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression Against Ukraine, as it's called, will then be formalized in Luxembourg on May 14 when the Council of Europe's Committee of Ministers meets.

What Is The Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression Against Ukraine?

Shortly after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the International Criminal Court (ICC) opened an investigation into allegations of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide committed by Russian forces. This includes offenses taking place on Ukrainian territory dating back to the Maidan Revolution that started in November 2013.

The new tribunal would look into what are called crimes of aggression, over which the ICC lacks jurisdiction. It would be an international court rooted in Ukrainian jurisdiction with a so-called legal personality under international law, Ukrainian law, and the law of the host country, which has yet to be determined -- initially thought to be the French city of Strasbourg, as that's the official seat of the Council of Europe, but the tribunal may end up in The Hague.

What Constitutes A Crime Of Aggression?

According to the draft statute of the tribunal, seen by RFE/RL, a "crime of aggression" means "the planning, preparation, initiation or execution, by a person in a position effectively to exercise control over or to direct the political or military action of a State, of an act of aggression which, by its character, gravity, and scale, constitutes a manifest violation of the Charter of the United Nations."

The statue further notes that an "act of aggression" means "the use of armed force by a state against the sovereignty, territorial integrity, or political independence of another state."

Many of the actions Russia has undertaken in recent years such as occupations, annexations, naval blockades, and bombardments of both civilian and military targets in Ukraine (though it denies targeting such infrastructure) constitute acts of aggression. In legal terms, Russia's invasion is regarded as an "unjust war" or a "war of conquest."

The term "crime of aggression" thus carries a wide scope, which can also include actions seen as war crimes or genocide. The tribunal will work closely with the ICC in the division of cases.

The tribunal would have the power to "investigate, prosecute, and try persons who bear the greatest responsibility for the crime of aggression against Ukraine."

Crimes of aggression are, in other words, what are known as "leadership" crimes, committed by, as the text notes, "a person in a position effectively to exercise control over or to direct the political or military action."

This would include politicians in Russia, and potentially those in other countries that have contributed to undermining Ukraines territorial integrity -- namely Belarus, Iran, and North Korea.

Does Putin Have Immunity From Prosecution?

Russian President Vladimir Putin and those in his inner circle do have immunity from prosecution while in office under what is known as a "triangle of immunity" for sitting presidents, prime ministers, and foreign ministers. This often includes defense ministers, as well.

This immunity can technically only be waived by the United Nations, but given that Russia is a permanent member of the UN Security Council even this technicality becomes rather academic.

It's most likely the tribunal will see a lot of "in absentia" hearings and rulings, which according to the draft statute will be possible.

What Will The Tribunal Do, Exactly?

A core group of countries has been gathering evidence together with Ukraine since 2023, so the work is already well under way. It's a bit like "a legal 'coalition of the willing'" with some 40 countries, including most of the 27 EU member states minus Hungary and Slovakia; the G7 countries bar the United States, which recently signaled it won't take part; and other Council of Europe countries. Any nation can, however, join at any time.

A management committee consisting of officials from the core group will now select judges and a prosecutor. The draft statute notes that "the judges of the Special Tribunal shall be persons of high moral character, impartiality, and integrity who possess the qualifications required in their respective countries for appointment to the highest judicial offices. They shall be independent in the performance of their functions and shall not accept or seek instructions from any Government or any other source. No two judges may be nationals of the same State."

The prosecutor will be elected through a secret ballot by an absolute majority of the management committee for a period of seven years.

If a party is found guilty by the tribunal, they could face anywhere from a few years in prison to a life sentence, as well as fines. Those convicted will serve their sentence in a state that has concluded a specific agreement with the tribunal. If there is no such country, "the sentence may be served in Ukraine."

NOTE: The headline of this article has been changed to clarify that the proposed tribunal would operate within the framework of the Council of Europe, not the EU.
Indian and Pakistani forces have exchanged artillery fire after Indian air strikes claimed multiple lives, as tensions between the two nuclear-armed regional powers threatened to boil over.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shebaz Sharif vowed retaliation and an emergency meeting of the National Security Committee in Islamabad on May 7 concluded with a decision authorizing the country's military to respond.

It said that India had "ignited an inferno in the region.

Following the decision, crowds gathered in several Pakistani cities to voice anger at India's attack and support for retaliation.

"We are standing side by side with the army," protester Fazal Hussain told RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal in Peshawar. He added that "we will hoist the Pakistani flag" in Delhi.

Another man at the rally, Abdul Hanan, said India had staged a "cowardly attack."

Both sides reported several fatalities in the shelling on May 7. Pakistan also claimed to have shot down several Indian jets.

The moment the Indian side released payloads, we engaged their jets and shot five Indian jets," Sharif said during an address to parliament.

Hours earlier, Indian forces hit targets across Pakistani-administered Kashmir and Pakistans Punjab Province.

India said it carried out precision strikes against terrorists following the attack in Indian-administered Kashmir two weeks ago that killed 26 Hindu tourists.

India had earlier said that two of three suspects in that attack were Pakistani nationals but had not detailed any evidence. Pakistan denied that it had anything to do with the killings.

The Pakistani military said only civilians were killed in the strikes on May 7.

This information was followed by the Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed putting out a statement saying that 10 family members of its leader, Maulana Masood Azhar, had been killed.

This information could not be immediately confirmed independently.

Worst Fighting In Decades

This is the worst fighting between the two sides in more than two decades. Pakistan called the Indian strikes a blatant act of war.

As the latest crisis unfolds, media outlets and political leaders on both sides are amplifying war rhetoric. Prime-time talk shows, military-themed advertisements, and nationalist songs are fueling public sentiment.

On social media, users wage digital wars, trading threats and propaganda on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.

On May 3, Pakistani channels aired breaking news of the test-fire of the 450-kilometer range Abdali missile. Indian networks, meanwhile, broadcast from high-tech war rooms, with dramatic graphics and commentary designed to stir patriotic fervor.

Dr. Tauseef Ahmad Khan, author and former head of the Mass Communication Department at the Federal Urdu University in Karachi, said: Indian media is under the influence of Prime Minister [Narendra] Modis Hindutva ideology, while Pakistani media is tightly controlled by the deep state. Theres no room left for sanity.

The Kashmir Conflict

The dispute over the mountainous Kashmir region was born from the bloody partition of British India in 1947.

India and Pakistan have already fought three full-scale wars in 1948, 1965 and 1971, and a limited conflict in 1999 also known as the Kargil War.

Due to the power imbalance between the two -- India being militarily and economically stronger -- Pakistan has supported both local and cross-border militant groups since the 1980s to fuel an armed insurgency in Kashmir.

The European Union called for both sides to take steps to deescalate the situation.

"The EU recalls the need for a negotiated, agreed and lasting, peaceful solution to the conflict," EU foreign affairs spokesman Anouar El Anouni told reporters.

This latest escalation in the conflict has also sounded alarm bells in Washington, where US President Donald Trump said he had been informed about the attack and hopes the fighting "ends very quickly."

In New York, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern about the attack and called for maximum restraint from both countries.

"The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan," Guterres said, according to his spokesman.
More than 140 Russian drones hit cities and other civilian areas in Ukraine overnight May 6-7, killing two people in Kyiv. Zaporizhzhya was also struck, causing several casualties. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for more sanctions against Russia while Ukrainian drone strikes hit Moscow for the third night running.
US President Donald Trump said on May 6 that he's ordering a halt to US air strikes on Houthi rebels in Yemen after the Iran-backed group agreed to stop attacking ships on important shipping routes in the Middle East.

Were going to stop the bombing of the Houthis, effective immediately, Trump said at the start of a meeting at the White House with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.

After Trump made the announcement, Oman said it had mediated the cease-fire, and confirmed that the US campaign was ending.

In the future, neither side will target the other, including American vessels, in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait, ensuring freedom of navigation and the smooth flow of international commercial shipping, Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi said on X, calling the agreement a welcome outcome.

The United States launched a campaign of air strikes in March, and Trump promised to use overwhelming lethal force.

That came after the Houthis said they would resume attacks on Israeli vessels sailing off Yemen in response to Israel's mounting another blockade on the Gaza Strip.

Trump said on May 6 that the Houthis had indicated to US officials that they dont want to fight anymore. They just dont want to fight. And we will honor that, and we will stop the bombings.

He said the announcement means the Houthis will not be blowing up ships anymore.

The Houthis have been firing at shipping in the Red Sea and at Israel since Israel began its military offensive in Gaza against Hamas, which has been designated by the United States and the EU as a terrorist organization, after the Palestinian militant group launched a deadly attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.

The statement from Oman did not mention whether the Houthis had agreed to stop attacks on Israel.

The head of Yemen's Houthi Supreme Political Council, Mahdi al-Mashat, said the group would continue to support Gaza.

Separately, the head of Yemen's Houthi supreme revolutionary committee, Mohammed Ali al-Houthi, said on X that the US halt of "aggression" against Yemen would be evaluated.

Israels military on May 6 launched air strikes against the Houthis that it said fully disabled the international airport in the Yemeni capital, Sanaa. Israels attacks were in retaliation for a Houthi missile strike on May 4 on Israels international airport.

Gregory Brew, a senior analyst with the Eurasia Group risk-analysis firm, said on X that the Houthis have not fired on a commercial ship since December.

They are likely, however, to continue shooting at Israel, Brew said.

From November 2023 until January 2025, the Houthis targeted more than 100 merchant vessels with missiles and drones. That has greatly reduced the flow of trade through the Red Sea corridor, which typically sees $1 trillion of goods move through it annually.

With reporting by AP and Reuters
The Dubai chocolate trend that has filled up TikTok feeds and taken the online world by storm will now reach the main Irish supermarkets.

Swiss chocolatier Lindt has launched its own version of Dubai chocolate that will be available in Dunnes Stores, Tesco and other Irish retailers from Friday.

The first recipe for Dubai chocolate, combining pistachio nuts, kadayif and milk chocolate, was created in 2021 by Sarah Hamouda of FIX Dessert Chocolatier and but gained worldwide fame in 2023 after a viral TikTok clip.

#foodsounds #dubai #dubaidessert    - mariavehera257 @mariavehera257 @fixdessertchocolatier WOW, JUST WOW!!! Cant explain how good these are! When a chocolate, a dessert and a piece of art meet this is what you get!  "Can't Get Knafeh of it," "Mind Your Own Busicoff," and "Crazy Over Caramel." Order on Instagram Chatfood or Deliveroo and let me know whats your FIX? Instagram : fixdessertchocolatier #asmr

The clip, posted in December 2023, has amassed more than 120 million views and fuelled a worldwide craze for pistachio chocolate.

The craze has even triggered a global pistachio supply crunch, according to the Financial Times, exacerbating a worldwide shortage of the green nut and sending its prices soaring.

And the chocolate does not come cheap. Lindts Dubai offering retails at 12.50 for 145g in Ireland, more than double its other bars.

Stefan Bruderer, master chocolatier at Lindt & Sprungli said: "Were always tapped into consumer trends and after we saw how well the Dubai chocolate craze went down on social media, we knew we had to get involved and create our own recipe/version."
High Court reporters

Irish Nationwide Building Society was providing millions of euro in commercial loans and top-ups to clients before its board could approve them, including one to a commercial client who already had an exposure of a quarter of a billion euro at the time of their granted loan for developing luxury holiday residences in France, the High Court has heard.

The civil case against former INBS chief Michael Fingleton is in its second day before the High Court, where it has been alleged that he negligently mismanaged the building society (INBS) and engaged in property "gambles" with high net-worth individuals in an informal and speculative manner.

Mr Fingleton (87), who is in ill health after a stroke, ran the building lender from 1971 to 2009, as managing director and chief executive. At its height in 2007, INBS had reported assets of 16 billion but was a high-profile casualty of the financial crisis of 2008.

Liquidators for IBRC have taken the case against Mr Fingleton, who denies the allegation of negligent mismanagement.

The losses, relating to property loans, had been estimated by the Irish Banking Resolution Corporation (IBRC) at 6 billion. However, only 250 million in damages is now being pursued by IBRC relating to five loans made by INBS, allegedly approved by Mr Fingleton, who the court was told was also nodding through top-ups and extensions to certain clients.

At the High Court on Wednesday, Lyndon MacCann SC, for IBRC, said the building society operated flawed policies, which were then ignored by the lender and made worse by what he called flawed practices.

Mr MacCann said an expert witness for IBRC will give evidence to the court that the level of delegation of power given to Mr Fingleton was hideously flawed.

Counsel said that in one instance, a borrower was approved for a loan of 28 million by Mr Fingleton months before it came before either the board or the credit panel of INBS in January 2009.

The loan was for the purchase of two run-down hotels in the French Alps despite them not having planning permission for a proposed luxury residence development, and the actual application for the loan came before the board after it was already approved.

The court heard that Mr Fingleton nodded through loans, top-ups and loan extensions by phone or by scribbling a note on memos that reached him, as he did not have a computer or email.

Mr MacCann said the France loan, referenced Ice Mountain, was allegedly approved by Mr Fingleton despite the borrowers company and his daughter already having a combined exposure of a third of a billion euro to INBS and that the company was coming in at number seven in a Top of the Pops - at 260 million - of those lenders with the most exposure to the bank.

The court also heard that a different loan for 71 million was topped up by a further 10 million to 81 million, with only Fingletons approval being any record for the expanded loan.

In the case of a separate loan valued at 130 million in 2009, after Mr Fingleton had retired, INBS asked the borrower to repay the outlay. However, the borrower told INBS that the loan had been granted on a non-recourse basis, which was disputed by the society.

The court was told that the borrower provided INBS with a letter from Mr Fingleton allegedly confirming the non-recourse status of the loan, but INBS took legal advice which stated that the loans were of full recourse and that the borrower could indeed be pursued for the money, said counsel.

Mr MacCann described the letter stating the loans were non-recourse was an extraordinary document for Mr Fingleton to write and that a handwriting expert will feature in the case.

In opening the case on Tuesday, Mr MacCann said Mr Fingelton "gambled" with the society's money when he allegedly approved "speculative, risky" commercial loans, which sometimes had already been greenlit by him before they were taken before the board of directors, on which he also sat.

The return on the loans and interest from INBS was that if the properties could get planning permission, they were to be "flipped" for a profit, making it a "joint-venture" for INBS in profit agreements.

The five loans "approved" by Mr Fingleton relate to property land development projects between 2006 and 2008 despite them having no zoning or planning permission, counsel said.

It is further alleged that there was no securities in place on the loans and no personal guarantee sought for or provided by the borrowers.

Mr Fingleton was a prominent presence in Irish business during the Celtic Tiger and was reported to have been worth around 75 million in 2006. However, his son has told the courts that his father is reduced to 25,000 in two personal bank accounts and has outstanding judgment debts of more than 10.7 million.

The case continues at the High Court.
Tom Tuite

Landlord turned screenwriter Christian Carter has backed off from using anti-stalking laws to stop an RTE reporter writing stories about him, but has been hit with a 5,000 legal bill.

Dublin man Carter had secured interim restraining orders on April 9th, temporarily stopping Amy Molloy, the Irish Independent's Social Affairs Correspondent, and Maura Fay, a Today with Claire Byrne reporter on RTE Radio 1, from publishing stories about him.

Both of the journalists resisted his attempts to extend the interim order for five-years.

However, last month at Dublin District Court, Judge Anthony Halpin threw out Carter's bid to "silence" Amy Molloy before lifting reporting restrictions and landing him with an order to pay 10,000 to cover expenses incurred by Mediahuis, the publishers of the Irish Independent, in fighting the case.

On Tuesday, Carter's case against Ms Fay was listed again for hearing. However, during the call-over of the day's cases, his barrister, Stephen Wilson, instructed by solicitor Alex Rafter, said he was instructed to withdraw the matter.

Judge Halpin noted two similar previous attempts against Ms Fay had failed. Following an application by Rebecca Tierney BL for Ms Fay, he ordered Carter to pay her legal costs of 5,000.

Furthermore, he again lifted the in-camera rule, allowing the parties to be named.

The businessman's U-turn follows a resounding courtroom defeat on April 16th in his action against the Irish Independent journalist.

In that case, Judge Halpin criticised Carter's use of the process, saying it was not the purpose of the civil restraining orders introduced last year.

The judge had heard that Amy Molloy had broken stories and covered court cases about Carter's days as a landlord and his tax affairs.

"I was just doing my job," the journalist emphasised when she testified at the hearing.

Judge Halpin dismissed that case: "I never envisaged that this forum would be used to dilute journalistic freedom or restrict publication of certain matters."

He held that Carter endeavoured to use this legal remedy to "suppress" the legitimate publication of facts he did not want in the public domain.

Ronan Lupton SC for the newspaper described that civil restraining order application as a collateral attack that tramples on the right of freedom of expression.

In evidence, the journalist rejected suggestions from the applicant's solicitor that she had stepped over the line, telling Judge Halpin she was simply seeking a comment, offering Carter the right to reply, which was a fundamental part of journalism, and "I was just doing my job".

Carter claimed that she had written 50 articles and had rehashed stories about him since 2017.

In response to his claims, Ms Molloy said since 2017, she had written 17 or 18 articles concerning properties Carter rented out and when he appeared on the tax defaulters list last year.

One of the properties featured in her work was a Cabinteely property, which she alleged had 70 tenants, while Carter claimed it was a 6,000 sq ft 25-roomed mansion with 40 tenants. The Circuit Court had ordered him to pay 20,000 to some of his tenants.

The court heard he was also featured in a 2017 RTE Investigates broadcast called Nightmare to Let.

Ms Molloy explained she had written about his issues with the Residential Tenancies Board, a council and the Revenue Commissioners.

The journalist said that a source informed her that Carter had recently travelled to various destinations, including South America, Canada, and Hawaii.

Ms Molloy asserted that in light of that, she attempted to reach out to him for a comment on whether he had paid up following his settlement of nearly one million euro with the Revenue Commissioners after under-declaring income tax.

She stated, "If Mr Carter had paid his taxes and had not dangerously overcrowded houses, I would never have had to write about him".

Breaching a civil restraining order can result in a 4,000 fine, a criminal conviction and a 12-month prison sentence.
Bank of Ireland is seeking permission to carry out works at one of its branches in the county.

The bank is asking the council to allow it to replace the existing ATM at the front of the Boyle branch and to carry out minor internal alterations.

The application is currently at pre-validation stage and a decision is expected by June 26th.
Roscommon Safe Link (RSL), a frontline domestic violence and abuse service, has reported a 13% increase in new clients and a 5% increase in continuing clients over the past year, according to its 2024 Annual Report released this week.

The rise reflects a growing awareness of domestic violence issues and the vital services RSL provides to individuals throughout County Roscommon and surrounding areas.

'Support in Crisis, Healing in the Aftermath' remains the organisations vision, with 2024 marked by major milestones, including the expansion of outreach clinics, enhanced male engagement, and the foundation of a Safe House and Refuge project.

Chairperson Paul McCarthy praised the tireless efforts of the service's staff, volunteers, and partners. This report reflects not just rising demand, but our aim to meet people in crisis with compassion, professionalism, and long-term support.

We are heartened by the 13% increase in new clients and the 5% increase in existing clients as it reflects the growing confidence in men, women and children reaching out for support, he said.

This increasing engagement is a positive sign, even as we understand the emotional and practical challenges our clients face when it comes to seeking help.

By sharing these statistics in our annual report today, we hope to encourage anyone experiencing any form of abusebe it verbal, physical, emotional, financial, sexual, or domesticto reach out and contact us on (071) 966 4200. RSL continues to operate from its offices in Boyle, offering a range of services including crisis helplines, counselling, court and Garda accompaniment, support groups, play therapy, and childrens services. The services plans for this year include expanding crisis response and outreach services, and advancing the Safe House and Refuge project to the implementation phase. It is also planning to increase male-focused outreach and reduce stigma, and enhance family and childrens services.

Project Manager Anne Carey said this year will be a very busy year for Roscommon Safe Link as it continues to advance its crisis response and outreach service.

Our main focus for 2025 is to expand our Safe House and Refuge project by securing a partnership with an Approved Housing Body and start a phased rollout of safe accommodation options, she said.

We also aim to strengthen support for male clients alongside our services for women, working towards a more gender-balanced approach.

We will promote greater engagement with families and children to support service growth within Childrens Services by securing the necessary resources to enhance TLC Kidz and Non-Violent Resistance (NVR) programmes.

For more information, to support their work, or to seek help, please visit www.roscommonsafelink.ie or call (071) 966 4200.
This Friday marks something that will likely pass most people by without much thought: Europe Day. Ill admit, I only learned about it by accident a few weeks ago. But once I knew it existed, it sparked a bigger question in my mind: What has the European Union really done for us here in Ireland? And what does being part of Europe actually mean for people like you and me?

We all know were Irish. Thats something we carry proudly its part of our identity, culture, and daily lives. But technically, we are also European citizens. Ireland joined the European Economic Community, now the European Union, in 1973. That was over 50 years ago. And yet, if Im being honest, I rarely think of myself as European. I doubt Im alone in that.

Nearly 25 years ago, then Tanaiste Mary Harney remarked that Ireland felt closer to Boston than Berlin. It was a clever line that stuckand in many ways, it still rings true. We speak the same language as the United States. We consume American TV, movies, music, and news. Many of us have family or friends across the Atlantic, and for decades, emigration made that bond even stronger. In contrast, Europe can sometimes feel more distantforeign languages, unfamiliar customs, and news we dont always follow.

So it's easy to think of the EU as an abstract thing distant politicians in Brussels, complicated regulations, or maybe a programme like Erasmus that college students take part in. But if you stop and look closer, the EU has had a real and lasting impact on daily life in Ireland, even in our smallest towns and most rural communities.

Lets start with something many of us take for granted: infrastructure. Roads, bridges, and public transport systems across Ireland have benefited from EU funding. Without this support, development in many areasparticularly here in the west and midlandswould have taken much longer. Town centres have been revitalised, old buildings restored, and sustainable tourism supported, often with the help of European money.

Environmental protection is another area where EU involvement has made a tangible difference. Today, Irelands rivers, lakes and beaches are cleaner than they were a generation ago, thanks in large part to EU rules on water quality and pollution. Whether youre swimming in Salthill or walking along the shore in Enniscrone, EU environmental standards have had a hand in keeping those places clean and safe.

One of the most significant contributions of EU membership is the support it provides to Irish farmers through the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Farming is a vital part of Irish lifeeconomically, culturally, and socially. The CAP provides financial assistance that helps farmers modernise equipment, improve animal welfare, and adopt more sustainable practices. Without this support, many small family farms would find it difficult to survive in an increasingly competitive global market.

EU membership has also opened the door to opportunities for young people. Through the Erasmus+ programme, Irish students can study, volunteer, or gain work experience in other EU countries. Its a chance to see the world, meet new people, and learn new languagesexperiences that can shape a lifetime. For many young Irish people, Erasmus is their first real connection to the idea of a shared European identity.

And then theres the social progress we've madesome of which was directly driven by EU membership. Back in the 1970s, Ireland had different pay scales for men and women, even when doing the exact same job. It was European legislation that forced change. Equal pay laws were introduced here in 1974, followed by employment equality laws in 1977, both prompted by EU directives. These werent just bureaucratic decisions made far awaythey were laws that improved real lives here at home.

Even in moments of crisis, our place in Europe has mattered. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the EU helped secure vaccine supplies and coordinated health responses. During the Brexit process, Ireland had the full backing of 26 other member states, ensuring that our unique concernsespecially in relation to Northern Irelandwere taken seriously and protected.

And yet, despite all this, I wonder: do we feel European? For most of us, Irish comes first, and maybe thats only natural. But Europe isnt some far-off idea. Its not just about the euro in your pocket or the rules printed in small font on the back of food packaging. Europe is a community were part ofa project built on cooperation, equality, and shared goals.

The EU flag, with its 12 gold stars in a circle, isnt about the number of countries in the union. The number 12 symbolises unity and harmonyideals that are more relevant now than ever. Europe Day is a reminder that despite our differences, European countries can and do work together for the common good.

So, what has the EU ever done for us? More than you might think. From cleaner beaches to fairer laws, from rural support to youth opportunities, the European Union has left its mark on Ireland in ways that are often easy to overlookbut hard to ignore once you notice them.

This Europe Day, maybe we should pause and consider that were not just a small island on the edge of the Atlantic. Were also part of something bigger. And that connectionlike all relationshipsdeserves to be understood, appreciated, and sometimes, even celebrated.
David Raleigh

More than 30 people were arrested by gardai on Tuesday as part of a major multi-agency crackdown on outstanding warrants in Askeaton, Co Limerick.

Those arrested for various alleged offences were bailed and remanded to appear in court at later dates.

The day of action involved many arms of the States authorities, including local gardai, armed Garda units, Garda Roads Policing Unit. Revenue Customs Officers, Road Safety Authority, Limerick City and County Council Dog Warden Service, and the Department of Social Protection.

Firearms checks, road traffic checkpoints, as well as strategic patrols, were conducted in the west Co Limerick town throughout the day.

Gardai attended at a number of residential homes in the town as part of the operation, in what was the fifth successive day of action across the Limerick County Garda Community Engagement Area, following similar operations in Abbeyfeale, Newcastle West, Rathkeale, and Kilmallock over the last few months.

Gardai said their goal was to respond to the needs of communities in tackling varying issues such as anti-social behaviour, road safety, and compliance with various legislation.

The days of action are well-planned in advance and require plentiful resources and logistics, as well as the cooperation of the Courts Services to deal specifically with a large number of warrants at short notice.
DAKAR, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Thiekouta Diouf, an 84-year-old Senegalese cataract patient, was overjoyed to regain sight after receiving a custom-made foldable intraocular lens implanted by Chinese doctors. The free surgery was performed last Friday inside a mobile surgical unit stationed at the Regional Hospital Center of Fatick in western Senegal by Zhang Zhaode, a veteran ophthalmologist from east China's Fujian Province. As medical staff helped Diouf off the operating table, a smile lit up his deeply wrinkled face. "The operation was comfortable. I felt no pain," he said. "Thanks to the Chinese doctors, I have hope of seeing again." His operation marked the 3,603rd procedure completed under a cataract blindness prevention project jointly launched by the GX Foundation, a Chinese non-profit and non-governmental organization registered in China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, as well as the Fujian Provincial Health Commission. According to a World Report on Vision published in 2019 by the World Health Organization, more than 2.2 billion people globally suffer from visual impairment or blindness. For at least one billion of them, these conditions were preventable or remain treatable. A lack of eye care resources, especially in low- and middle-income countries, remains one of the leading causes. In Senegal, where the healthcare system remains underdeveloped and high ultraviolet exposure in the tropical savannah contributes to cataract development, the situation is particularly pressing. Many patients miss the optimal window for treatment due to limited medical services. Senegal's Minister of Health and Social Action Ibrahima Sy described blindness and visual disorders as major public health issues, noting that nearly 165,000 people in the country are blind and more than 550,000 suffer from visual impairments caused by cataracts, trachoma, glaucoma, and other conditions. "The situation is more serious than we had imagined," said Zheng Hong, chief physician from the ophthalmology department of Sanming No. 1 Hospital, Fujian. A month earlier, she and four colleagues had traveled over 10,000 km to reach this West African country. "We initially planned to perform about 10 operations a day," Zheng said. "But faced with so many longing eyes, we all agreed to extend our working hours and now perform over 20 surgeries daily." In the early hours of last Friday, the hospital corridors were jam-packed with patients from across the country. Local volunteers efficiently handled registrations and screenings. "A friend from my village told me the Chinese doctors here are very skilled and capable of fixing our vision problems," said Saliou Diouf, 52, who had driven from a nearby rural area. He had lived with blurry vision for years, unable to access surgical treatment. "We conduct thorough screenings for every patient," explained Zhang Caihua, chief physician from the ophthalmology department of Sanming No. 2 Hospital, Fujian. "Once cataracts are diagnosed, we customize intraocular lenses to suit each individual's eye condition." In the screening room, Zhang, assisted by local doctors, used a keratometer and A/B-scan ophthalmologic ultrasound to collect patient data. "The patients are very cooperative during screening and surgery," she said while reviewing the day's registry. "When the bandages come off, some patients dance, others cry. That joy transcends all language barriers." As the setting sun cast golden light over the Fatick hospital, a new group of patients received appointments for the next day's procedures. As the Chinese doctors boarded their minibus to return to their lodging, words of gratitude in Wolof, French, and Chinese echoed across the West African savannah. At a closing ceremony held Monday in Dakar, Senegal's capital, to mark the end of the Fatick leg of the project and sign a renewed cooperation agreement, Leung Chun-ying, president of the GX Foundation, shared the project's progress. Since its launch in October 2023, the initiative has dispatched seven specialized ophthalmology teams who have screened the eyes of more than 5,800 patients aged between 17 and 103, and conducted over 3,600 free cataract surgeries. "For more than a year, we have shared Chinese medical expertise with the people of Senegal. In return, they have given us touching stories. Whether it's patients who have been blind for 30 years or centenarians, the joy of regaining sight deeply symbolizes Sino-Senegalese friendship," said Leung. He added that after completing the mission in Fatick, the Foundation would continue its free operations in N'dioum in the Saint-Louis Region, northwestern Senegal. At the ceremony, Li Yan, minister counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Senegal, affirmed China's commitment to deepening humanitarian medical assistance to Senegal, delivering real and tangible benefits to the Senegalese people.
Alison O'Riordan

Richard Satchwell told a detective two years before his wife's body was discovered buried in a shallow grave beneath their Cork home that he "personally thought" she was "still out there somewhere", his trial has heard.

The Central Criminal Court jury heard that the accused man described crying on the evening he discovered his wife had left their home while one of their dogs licked up his tears.

He also told the interviewing officer that Tina Satchwell, who he said had mentioned leaving him hundreds of times, could be "nasty" and that he had previously tried to end his life because she was violent with him.

The jury in the trial heard on Tuesday that gardai employed enhanced, witness-led interviewing techniques when questioning the accused about his wife's disappearance.

The trial has heard that on March 24th, 2017, Mr Satchwell told gardai that his wife Tina Satchwelll had left their home four days earlier but that he had no concerns over her welfare, feeling she had left due to a deterioration in their relationship.

The accused formally reported Ms Satchwell missing the following May but her body was not discovered for over six years, when gardai in October 2023 found her decomposed remains in a grave that had been dug underneath the stairs of her home.

In her opening address, Gerardine Small SC, prosecuting, told the jury that after the body was recovered, Mr Satchwell told gardai that he lost his footing and fell to the ground when his wife tried to stab him with a chisel. He told detectives that he held her weight off with a belt but that in a matter of seconds, she was dead in his arms.

Mr Satchwell (58), with an address at Grattan Street, Youghal, Co Cork, has pleaded not guilty to murdering his 45-year-old wife Tina Satchwell - nee Dingivan - at that address between March 19th and March 20th, 2017, both dates inclusive.

On Tuesday, Detective Sergeant David Noonan told Ms Small that he met Mr Satchwell by appointment on June 20th, 2021 at an interview suite in Blackpool in Cork to take a statement from him.

The witness said this was different to a traditional statement, where a garda sits down with the person and the statement is written out. He said an enhanced cognitive interview takes place away from a garda station and it is witness led.

Det Sgt Noonan told the accused that detail was very important and to take it that he [the det sgt] knew nothing. He asked Mr Satchwell to tell him things that he might consider insignificant and to tell him everything about Tina Satchwell "in as much detail as possible".

The accused said he met Tina in 1989 and had broken the law trying to buy things he couldn't afford for her. He said they would talk about anything and would often sit up all night and chat.

Mr Satchwell said when Tina's brother committed suicide in 2012 she went distant and things altered in their relationship.

He said he believed she was planning to leave him after this. He said she had mentioned 200 or 300 times over the previous 15 years that she was going to leave.

The accused said when their parrot 'Pearl' died it was like losing a child and the vet wanted to do an autopsy. He said Tina was "so bad" at this time and "in bits".

Mr Satchwell told the detective that when they moved to Youghal he thought Tina would be happy as she had always wanted to live there.

The accused said his wife could be "nasty" and if she got violent with him, minutes later it would be like it never happened; "she'd be apologising and crying".

He added: "She could lose her temper easily depending on the type of day she had, she could be mean, angry and could hit you, other times she'd just go up to bed. It would depend on the form at a particular time". He said he wouldn't hit Tina back and was brought up "to believe you respect women".

Mr Satchwell said he had only gone to the doctor with scratches and "you make excuses; don't tell the lads". He said cuts on his forehead made it sound bad; "when you spread it over 28 years it's not as frequent as it sounds".

He said he would put his arms around his wife in relief if she returned home. "It wouldn't cost nothing to pick up the phone, to ring 999, say I'm Tina and I'm safe," he added. He said the last four years hadn't been easy.

Mr Satchwell told the detective he had replaced timber on the stairs in Grattan Street. "I got the boards ready from the Flavins Builders yard up the road, they had to order them in and then I had to cut them to size".

The accused said he had used a saw to cut the stairs and he cut the wider bits by hand. Asked what else he did to the house, the accused said "the windows, the dry lining, the plasterboard up the stairs".

He said he had put plaster on top of the old wall and then he screwed the plasterboard onto it. "I used to be known in years past as jack of all trades and master of none".

Asked about the night before Tina went missing on March 19th, 2017, he recalled that Tina painted her nails on a shelf in the sitting room and told the detective that the same "red glitter" nail polish was still there on the mantelpiece; he had not moved it.

He said they got two pizzas that night and he ran her a bath, which he said was a "seven day a week job" for him.

He said "another nightly ritual" was rubbing baby oil or "some form of lotion into her body all over". He said he also used a foot file because she always got dry skin on her feet and every night he would give her feet a rub including on March 19th.

"The same thing seven nights a week, rub the oil into her minus the feet then she'd turn and go asleep. She's like a light switch, never had any trouble going asleep," he remarked.

He said when he later got into bed on the night of March 19th Tina had cuddled in beside him and put her head on his shoulder. He said there were no tears that night but that she used to spend a lot of time crying when she was going to bed.

Mr Satchwell said he left for Dungarvan around 10am on the morning Tina disappeared to get bird seed before going to Aldi. When he got back to Grattan Street the accused told the detective that Tina's keys were on the floor and her mobile on a countertop in the kitchen.

He said the two dogs being in the sitting room were very unusual. Later he spotted that two suitcases were gone and the money box in the attic - which he said had contained 26k - was "out with no money in it".

Mr Satchwell said he cried that evening as their dog Heidi sat in one chair and their other Ruby in the other. He said Heidi had licked up his tears. He said the rest of the week was a blur and he waited for "the phone to go".

When the statement was read back to Mr Satchwell by the detective on January 23rd, 2022, the accused said: "What I believe is that when Tina was planning to leave in 2013 that when we got Pearl, Tina was happy again - and decided to stay, depression can do stupid things to ya. I personally think she is still out there somewhere".

The trial continues on Wednesday before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury of five men and seven women.
Operation Sindoor: Air Force takes complete control of Chandigarh Airport, all flights cancelled

All 52 domestic and international flights have been cancelled until further notice.

Operation Sindoor: Air Force takes complete control of Chandigarh Airport, all flights cancelled latest news: Following India's 'Operation Sindoor' targeting terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir after the Pahalgam attack, the Indian Air Force took complete control of Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport early on Wednesday morning.

All 52 domestic and international flights have been cancelled until further notice. The airport caters to several major routes, including Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad, Indore, Leh, Jaipur, Lucknow, Chennai, Patna, Pune, and Srinagar. It offers only two international flightsto Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Advertisement

Passengers who arrived at the airport on Wednesday morning were stopped at barricades and turned back. The airport sees a daily footfall of around 10,000 passengers.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) manages the civil terminal in collaboration with the Punjab and Haryana governments, while runway operations and air traffic control fall under the jurisdiction of the Chandigarh Air Force Station, which also determines the operational hours for commercial passenger flights.

Ajay Kumar, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Chandigarh International Airport Ltd (CHIAL), confirmed that the Air Force has taken full control of the airport and that all domestic and international flights remain suspended until further orders.

Advertisement

Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport is a joint venture between the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Punjab and Haryana governments. With a a485-crore investment, Punjab and Haryana each hold a 24.5% stake, while the AAI retains a majority share of 51%.

(For More News Apart Operation Sindoor: Air Force takes complete control of Chandigarh Airport, all flights cancelled stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
India Launches Operation Sindoor Targeting Terror Bases in Pakistan and PoK

The action was described as "focused, measured, and non-escalatory", with no Pakistani military facilities targeted.

Operation Sindoor, India attacks Pakistan Latest News Today: In a calibrated military response to last week's deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, India has launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine sites associated with terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK).

According to a government statement issued this afternoon, the operation struck locations used to plan and coordinate cross-border terror strikes against India. The action was described as "focused, measured, and non-escalatory", with no Pakistani military facilities targeted.

Advertisement

The government emphasized that the strikes were carefully designed to hold accountable those responsible for the Pahalgam massacre, in which 25 Indian civilians and one Nepali national were killed. India has exercised considerable restraint in the selection of targets and execution method, the statement read. A detailed briefing is expected later in the day.

The attacks on the multiple targets across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor was a joint operation by the Indian Army and Air Force using precision strike weapons.

Meanwhile, sources revealed that the precision strike weapon systems of the three forces, the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force, were used in the attacks, including the loitering munitions. The coordinates for the attacks on terrorist camps inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir were provided by the intelligence agencies. The attacks were carried out from Indian soil only.

Advertisement

(For more news apart from Operation Sindoor, India attacks Pakistan Latest News Today, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
Flights Disrupted Following India's Operation Sindoor Airstrikes

Airports in Dharamshala, Leh, Jammu, Srinagar, and Amritsar remain shut until further notice.

Flights Disrupted Following India's Operation Sindoor Airstrikes latest news: Some flights have been delayed or canceled following India conducting airstrikes on nine terror locations in Pakistan under Operation Sindoor. Large carriers like SpiceJet, Air India, and Indigo have alerted passengers to schedule modifications, particularly in the northern part of India.

Airports Impacted: Airports in Dharamshala, Leh, Jammu, Srinagar, and Amritsar remain shut until further notice. Travelers have been advised by airlines to look for updates before proceeding to the airport.

Advertisement

Air India's Announcement: Air India tweeted on X (formerly Twitter) that flights to Rajkot, Bhuj, and Jamnagar will be impacted at least until 12 noon on May 7. Air India also canceled flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot for the time being. Some international flights bound for Amritsar are being diverted to Delhi.

Indigo's Advisory: Indigo Airlines has also informed travelers of disruptions. Flights to Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, and Bikaner will be affected owing to airspace restrictions.

What To Do For Passengers?: If you are scheduled to travel, please check your flight status with the airline before heading to the airport. These adjustments have been made owing to the current security situation, and airlines are following updates very closely.

Advertisement

Though the event is inconvenient, safety must be prioritized. The airlines apologize for the disruption and are working to return to normal operations as quickly as possible.

(For More News Apart Flights Disrupted Following India's Operation Sindoor Airstrikes stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
India Ready to Respond If Tensions Rise, Says NSA Ajit Doval latest news

The discussions happened shortly after Operation Sindoor, where India targeted nine locations involved in anti-India activities.

India Ready to Respond If Tensions Rise, Says NSA Ajit Doval latest news: Indias National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval has told leaders from different countries that India does not want to escalate tensions but is ready to respond firmly if Pakistan does.

Doval spoke with officials from the US, UK, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Russia, France, China, and the UAE, explaining Indias missile strikes on terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. He shared details of the operation, stressing that India acted carefully, without trying to increase conflict.

Advertisement

The discussions happened shortly after Operation Sindoor, where India targeted nine locations involved in anti-India activities.

Doval assured global leaders that India remains calm and restrained, but will react strongly if needed. He will continue to speak with his counterparts in the coming days.

(For More News Apart India Ready to Respond If Tensions Rise, Says NSA Ajit Doval stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
India Strikes Back: Operation Sindoor Dismantles Terrorist Camps

Shah highlighted that Operation Sindoor is the best example of the Modi government's zero tolerance policy towards terrorism

India Strikes Back: Operation Sindoor Dismantles Terrorist Camps latest news: In response to the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, the Indian government launched Operation Sindoor, a decisive military action against terrorist hideouts. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, in a high-level meeting, reaffirmed Prime Minister Narendra Modis commitment to ensuring national security and delivering a firm response to those who threaten India.

On the night of May 6-7, 2025, Indian military forces conducted precision attacks on nine strategic sites associated with terror groups, such as Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Hizbul Mujahideen, and others. The operations were successful in targeting terrorist training camps, arms dumps, and hideouts, severely weakening their infrastructure.

Advertisement

Shah highlighted that Operation Sindoor is the best example of the Modi government's zero tolerance policy towards terrorism, and it sent a very powerful message both at home and abroad. He thanked the unity and support of citizens and leaders from all over the country, saying that such unity boosts national morale .

Also, the Home Minister instructed state governments to stay alert and gear up for the worst by conducting mock drills and the smooth running of vital services such as hospitals and emergency response teams. He urged authorities to check anti-national propaganda on social and other media outlets and called for immediate action against misinformation.

To conclude, Amit Shah's emphasis was on public awareness and coordination, as well as between local governments, armed forces, and paramilitary forces, to ensure national stability and security. Amit Shah urged the authorities to strengthen communication networks and restrict the dissemination of unwarranted panic to maintain a well-informed and robust nation.

Advertisement

(For More News Apart India Strikes Back: Operation Sindoor Dismantles Terrorist Camps stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
Masood Azhar's Family Killed in India Airstrike Attack : Operation Sindoor

Indian Army has killed the terrorists who snatched the vermilion of its daughters.

Masood Azhar's Family Killed in India Airstrike Attack latest news: India has taken revenge from Pakistan for the Pahalgam attack. India has carried out an airstrike on Pakistan last night, has targeted and destroyed 9 terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. The Indian Army has successfully carried out Operation Sindoor on nine terrorist camps. These camps were 100 kilometers inside the Pakistani border.

Indian Army has killed the terrorists who snatched the vermilion of its daughters. There is an atmosphere of fear in Pakistan, which nurtures terrorism. The Indian Foreign Secretary has given all the information about this Operation Sindoor in a press briefing. There is news of 14 members of Azhar's family being killed in the Indian Army's Operation Sindoor.

Advertisement

This includes Masood's wife, daughter and brother. Apart from this, Masood Azhar's brother Rauf Azhar has also been killed. The Indian Army has targeted the madrasa of terrorist Masood Azhar in Bahawalpur. Four missiles were fired at this madrasa in Bahawalpur. This destroyed the entire complex. The name of this madrasa is Markaz Subhanallah. This complex has been working as the operational headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed.

This madrasa in Bahawalpur is also home to Jaish chief Maulana Masood Azhar and many other terrorists. Training camps of terrorists have been going on inside this madrasa for the last three decades. Regarding India's action, sources say that the Indian armed forces attacked about a dozen terrorist hideouts located at 9 different places in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Pakistan. These hideouts were up to 100 kilometers inside the Pakistani border.

Sources say that before the attack, a dozen terrorist hideouts were identified, monitored and then attacked and destroyed. The attacks were carried out to avenge the victims of the Pahalgam terrorist attack and to eliminate the terrorists of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) involved in planning and carrying out terrorist attacks in India.

Advertisement

These attacks have been carried out on terrorist hideouts in Muzaffarabad, Mudirke, Kotli and Bahawalpur in Pakistan.

(For More News Apart Masood Azhar's Family Killed in India Airstrike Attack stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
Operation Sindoor 25 minutes and 9 targets in Pakistan, Army Press briefing

They said the strikes were targeted toward terrorist infrastructure and did not harm civilians or the Pakistani military.

Operation Sindoor 25 minutes and 9 targets in Pakistan, Army Press briefing latest news: On Wednesday morning, at 10:30 AM, three high-ranking officials from the Indian military spoke to the media about the recent air strikes carried out on terrorist camps in Pakistan. The press conference started with a two-minute video displaying the accuracy of the operation.

There was a historic moment when two women officersArmy Colonel Sophia Qureshi and Air Force Wing Commander Vyomika Singhheaded the briefing, and it was the first in the history of India when a military press conference saw Hindu and Muslim women officers sharing the stage.

Advertisement

They said the strikes were targeted toward terrorist infrastructure and did not harm civilians or the Pakistani military.

The operation Sindoor, was conducted between 1:05 AM and 1:30 AM in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation was decided upon after intelligence reports suggested that terror outfits were planning to carry out more attacks in India. Nine important placesterror launch pads and training campswere identified and eliminated in the operations.

India's Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, condemned the recent Pahalgam attack vehemently as an act of cowardice. He pointed out that innocent tourists were brutally killed, which indicated a conscious effort to break peace and development in Jammu and Kashmir. Misri also disclosed that TRF (The Resistance Front), a terror group based in Pakistan and connected with Lashkar-e-Taiba, was responsible for the attack.

Advertisement

Over the past decade, India has witnessed a sharp rise in cross-border terrorism, with 600 soldiers martyred and 350 civilians killed in terror incidents. The operation was a response to this ongoing threat and aimed at dismantling key terror hubs.

Among the destroyed targets were:

- Sawai Nala, Muzaffarabad: A Lashkar-e-Taiba training center where terrorists involved in attacks on Sonmarg, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam were trained.

- Sialkot's Sarjal Camp: Utilized for training terrorists who had carried out fatal police killings in March 2025.

- Mahmuna Jaya Camp, Sialkot: Large Hizbul Mujahideen stronghold that coordinated attacks within Kathua and Pathankot.

- Markaz Tayiba, Muridke: Infamous terror camp where Ajmal Kasab and David Coleman Headley had been trained.

- Markaz Subhanallah, Bahawalpur: Jaish-e-Mohammed headquarters where recruitment and terrorist training took place.

Indian forces assured zero civilian casualties, being extra cautious to steer clear of inhabited regions. International bodies, such as the United Nations, had already emphasized that Pakistan should be brought to account for sheltering terrorism.

Advertisement

India has made one thing very clear through this operation: It will not stand for terrorism and will take quick, measured action to protect its citizens and sovereignty.

(For More News Apart Operation Sindoor 25 minutes and 9 targets in Pakistan, Army Press briefing stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
Pakistan Media Spreads False Claims of Srinagar Airbase Attack After India's Operation Sindoor

Operation Sindoor demonstrated Indias restraint and commitment to combating terrorism without escalating tensions.

Pakistan Attacked Srinagar Airbase After India's Operation Sindoor Latest News Today: In the wake of Indias successful Operation Sindoor targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), several Pakistani media outlets and social media accounts have been circulating unverified claims of a retaliatory attack on the Srinagar airbase. These reports, which emerged shortly after Indias focused and measured strikes on nine terrorist sites, have been debunked as false by the Jammu and Kashmir Police.

At 2:30 AM IST, a senior Jammu and Kashmir Police official confirmed to an Indian journalist that no such attack had taken place in Jammu and Kashmir, dismissing the Pakistani medias claims as baseless. There has been no attack on the Srinagar airbase or any other location in Jammu and Kashmir as falsely reported by Pakistani sources, the official stated, urging the public to rely on verified information.

Advertisement

Indian authorities have described these claims as a deliberate attempt by Pakistan to distract from the precision and success of Operation Sindoor, which was launched in response to the brutal Pahalgam terrorist attack on April 22, 2025, that claimed the lives of 25 Indian citizens and one Nepali national. The operation, which avoided targeting Pakistani military facilities, demonstrated Indias restraint and commitment to combating terrorism without escalating tensions.

Also Read | Breaking: India Launches Operation Sindoor Targeting Terror Bases in Pakistan and PoK

This is not the first instance of Pakistan resorting to misinformation to deflect attention from Indias counter-terrorism operations. Similar tactics were observed following the 2019 Balakot airstrike, when Pakistani media and officials spread false narratives to downplay the impact of Indias strikes on terrorist camps. Analysts suggest that the current claims are part of a pattern of propaganda aimed at misleading the public and covering up Pakistans inability to respond effectively to Indias actions.

Advertisement

The Indian government has reiterated its resolve to hold those responsible for terrorist activities accountable, with a detailed briefing on Operation Sindoor scheduled for later today. Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Police and Indian security forces remain on high alert, ensuring the safety of the region amid heightened tensions.

As misinformation continues to circulate, Indian officials have called on citizens to verify information through credible sources and avoid falling prey to Pakistans diversionary tactics. The international community has also been urged to take note of Pakistans attempts to distort facts while shielding terrorist elements operating from its soil.
Pakistani Celebrities Under Attack for Criticism of India's Anti-Terrorism Operation

social media websites were filled with arguments, with most criticizing the actors for ignoring the loss of innocent lives.

Pakistani Celebrities Under Attack for Criticism of India's Anti-Terrorism Operation latest news: India experienced one of its most deadliest terror incidents on April 22, where 26 innocent people lost their lives in Pahalgam, South Kashmir. The victims comprised mostly of tourists, with whom the terror members allegedly enquired about religion before brutally assassinating them.

As a response, on May 7, the Indian military initiated Operation Sindour, conducting targeted attacks on nine terrorist camps five in PoK and four in Pakistan. The operation was to eliminate terror launch pads and training camps that were launching cross-border attacks.

Advertisement

Although Operation Sindoor has been largely acclaimed throughout India and the world for its timely and strategic response, some Pakistani celebrities such as Hania Aamir and Mahira Khan have come out against it. Their comments created a wave of outrage among Indian citizens, particularly non-resident Indians (NRIs), who perceived their remarks as insensitive towards the victims of the Pahalgam attack.

Soon, social media websites were filled with arguments, with most criticizing the actors for ignoring the loss of innocent lives. Some stood in their defense, claiming that diplomacy and peace should be given precedence over war.

The incident reflects the widening gap between Indian and Pakistani views on terrorism, counter-attack operations, and national security. In spite of the furore, the Indian government insists that Operation Sindoor was a necessary measure to avoid further terror strikes and protect its citizens.

Advertisement

(For More News Apart Pakistani Celebrities Under Attack for Criticism of India's Anti-Terrorism Operation stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
Pakistans Indiscriminate Firing Kills Three Civilians in J&K, Indian Army Responds

The Indian Army, in a statement, condemned the attack and confirmed that it is responding in proportionate manner to Pakistans aggression.

India vs Pakistan Latest News Today: In a tragic escalation along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir, the Pakistan Army resorted to unprovoked and indiscriminate firing, including heavy artillery shelling, during the night of May 6-7, 2025, resulting in the deaths of three innocent civilians. The Indian Army, in a statement, condemned the attack and confirmed that it is responding in a proportionate manner to Pakistans aggression.

The Pakistani shelling targeted areas opposite Jammu and Kashmir, following Indias Operation Sindoor, which saw the Indian armed forces conduct precision missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) early on May 7. The operation, aimed at neutralizing terror infrastructure, including a major Jaish-e-Mohammad base in Bahawalpur, also involved the downing of a Pakistani JF-17 fighter jet attempting to intrude into Indian airspace over Pulwamas Pampore.

During the night of 06-07 May 2025, the Pakistan Army resorted to arbitrary firing, including artillery shelling from posts across the Line of Control and IB opposite J&K. Three innocent civilians lost their lives in indiscriminate firing/shelling. Indian Army is responding in a proportionate manner, the Indian Army stated.

The civilian casualties have heightened tensions in the region, with local authorities urging residents in border areas to remain vigilant and seek shelter in safe locations. The shelling, described as indiscriminate, has drawn sharp criticism from Indian officials, who view it as a violation of the ceasefire agreement and an attempt to destabilize the region in retaliation for Indias anti-terror operations.

The Indian Armys response has been measured yet firm, with troops along the LoC and IB engaging Pakistani posts to neutralize the threat. The Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) earlier reported Pakistans ceasefire violation in the Bhimber Gali sector of Poonch-Rajouri, underscoring the ongoing cross-border exchanges.

This incident comes in the wake of heightened military activity following Operation Sindoor, which was launched two weeks after a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam. The Indian Army has vowed to continue its efforts to dismantle terror networks operating across the border, with a detailed briefing on the operation expected later today.

The loss of civilian lives has sparked outrage, and calls for peace and accountability are growing amidst the volatile situation along the border.

(For more news apart from India vs Pakistan Latest News Today, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
Three Gursikhs killed in Pakistan Shelling in Poonch, Akal Takht Jathedar Condemns The Attack

He also urged communities across the border to support one another, pray for peace, and stand strong during these testing times.

Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj, officiating head of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, has issued a strong condemnation of the tragic loss of lives in Poonch, Jammu & Kashmir, following cross-border shelling by Pakistan. The attack, which reportedly occurred in retaliation for Indias Operation Sindoor, resulted in the deaths of civilians, including three Gursikhs, and the damage of a historic gurdwara.

The Jathedar identified the victims as Bhai Amrik Singh (a raagi), Bhai Amarjeet Singh (a retired soldier), and Bhai Ranjit Singh (a local shopkeeper). A Sikh woman named Ruby Kaur was also reportedly killed in the nearby Mankote area.

Advertisement

In a deeply emotional message, Jathedar Gargajj appealed to both India and Pakistan to pursue peace with urgency. War always harms humanity and takes innocent lives, he said, emphasizing the need for dialogue over destruction.

He also urged communities across the border to support one another, pray for peace, and stand strong during these testing times.
May 7, 2025 UPDATE (1)

A roundup of local and world news

May 7, 2025 UPDATE (1)

Newsroom, 07.05.2025, 17:15

CURRENCY  The Romanian national currency, the Leu (RON), depreciated on Wednesday against the Euro, which the National Bank estimated at 5.0991 lei, up 6.13 bani (1.22%) from the previous quotation of 5.0378 lei, reporting a new historical high. The Leu also lost ground against the US dollar, which was marked at 4.4898 lei, up 3.81 bani (+0.86%), compared to Tuesday, when it stood at 4.4517 lei. The national currency also depreciated against the Swiss franc, calculated at 5.4466 lei, up 5.34 bani (0.99%), compared to 5.3932 lei, the previous quotation, also reporting an all-time high. The price of gold rose by 3.5772 lei (0.73%) to the value of 487.1276 lei, from 483.5504 lei, in the previous session, also a historical high.

RESPONSE  Bucharest rejects the statements of Russian President Vladimir Putin, who said Russian troops invaded Ukraine because Romania and Bulgaria accepted to host American bases on their territory. The spokesman of the Foreign Ministry in Bucharest, Andrei Tarnea, emphasized that Russia threatens regional security and has started an unprovoked war in Ukraine. Romanias NATO accession represents the sovereign will of the citizens of Romania and the allied nations. At the same time, Romanias NATO membership does not pose a security threat to anyone. This is clear and evident. President Putin is using the same well-known narratives, which served as a pretext for a brutal war of annexation () Romania will continue to defend its security interests in full sovereignty, in its dual capacity as a NATO ally and a member state of the European Union, the Foreign Ministry representative said.

EUROPE DAY  On the occasion of Europe Day, on Friday, the debate ImprEUna  Romania and our Europe: present and future will take place in Bucharest, an event reflecting on Romanias European path and the common values shared within the EU, the Presidency announced. The event will bring together approximately 200 guests, including 150 students and high-school 12th graders, ambassadors of the European Union Member States, as well as representatives of the European institutions: the European Commission, the European Parliament, the European Investment Bank. The list of keynote speakers includes Roxana Minzatu, Vice-President of the European Commission, and Ramona Chiriac, Head of the European Commission Office in Romania. (VP)
May 7, 2025 UPDATE (2)

A roundup of local and world news

May 7, 2025 UPDATE (2)

Newsroom, 07.05.2025, 19:59

CURRENCY  The Romanian national currency, the Leu (RON), continued to depreciate on Wednesday against the Euro, which the National Bank estimated at 5.09 lei, up 6.1 bani (1.22%) from the previous quotation of 5.03 lei, reporting a new historical high. The Leu also lost ground against the US dollar, which was marked at 4.48 lei, up 3.8 bani (+0.86%), compared to Tuesday, when it stood at 4.45 lei. The national currency also depreciated against the Swiss franc, calculated at 5.44 lei, up 5.3 bani (0.99%), compared to 5.39 lei, the previous quotation, also reporting an all-time high. The price of gold rose by 3.57 lei (0.73%) to the value of 487.12 lei, from 483.55 lei in the previous session, also a historical high.

RESPONSE  Bucharest rejects the statements of Russian President Vladimir Putin, who said Russian troops invaded Ukraine because Romania and Bulgaria accepted to host American bases on their territories. The spokesman of the Foreign Ministry in Bucharest, Andrei Tarnea, emphasized that Russia threatens regional security and has started an unprovoked war in Ukraine. Romanias NATO accession represents the sovereign will of the citizens of Romania and the allied nations. At the same time, Romanias NATO membership does not pose a security threat to anyone. This is clear and evident. President Putin is using the same well-known narratives, which served as a pretext for a brutal war of annexation () Romania will continue to defend its security interests in full sovereignty, in its dual capacity as a NATO ally and a member state of the European Union, the Foreign Ministry representative said.

EUROPE DAY  To mark Europe Day, on Friday, the debate ImprEUna  Romania and our Europe: present and future will take place in Bucharest, an event reflecting on Romanias European path and the common values shared within the EU, the Presidency announced. The event will bring together approximately 200 guests, including 150 students and high-school 12th graders, ambassadors of the European Union Member States, as well as representatives of the European institutions: the European Commission, the European Parliament, the European Investment Bank. The list of keynote speakers includes Roxana Minzatu, Vice-President of the European Commission, and Ramona Chiriac, Head of the European Commission Office in Romania.

DEFENSE  Romanian Defense Minister Angel Tilvar on Wednesday met with his counterpart from the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Ruben Brekelmans, at the Lieutenant Aviator Gheorghe Mociornita 86th Air Base in Fetesti. The two officials analyzed the current state and prospects for deepening Romanian-Dutch bilateral cooperation in the field of defense, with a focus on collaboration as part of defense projects and initiatives at EU and NATO levels, in the context of preparations for the North Atlantic Alliance summit in the Hague in June. Talks also referred to aspects of bilateral cooperation, especially the European F-16 Training Center operating at the 86th Air Base, as well as the impact of the Russian Federations war of aggression against Ukraine on Euro-Atlantic security.

GAZA  Nine Romanian citizens and members of their families have been successfully evacuated from the Gaza Strip and brought home, in the context of the deteriorating security climate in the region. They were flown back to Romania onboard a Spartan aircraft of the Romanian Air Forces, after being transported to Jordan by a consular team of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs the previous day.

CONCLAVE  The doors of the Sistine Chapel have now sealed behind the 133 cardinal electors under the age of 80 who will vote until they elect a leader for the 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide. The world will now await white smoke to arise from the Sistine Chapels chimney, which will announce the designation of the new Pope. The fastest elected Pontiff in history was Pius VII, who, in 1939, ascended the papal throne after only three rounds of voting. Meanwhile in Bucharest, a holy mass was celebrated at the St. Joseph Roman Catholic Cathedral, in celebration of the start of the conclave at the Vatican. (VP)
Factory orders and construction Purchasing Managers' survey results from Germany and retail sales from the euro area are due on Wednesday, headlining a busy day for the European economic news.

At 2.00 am ET, Destatis is scheduled to issue Germany's factory orders data for March. Orders are forecast to grow 1.4 percent month-on-month, after remaining flat in February.

At 2.45 am ET, foreign trade data is due from France. The trade deficit is seen at EUR 7.0 billion in March compared to a shortfall of EUR 7.9 billion in February.

At 3.30 am ET, S&P Global publishes Germany's construction PMI data.

At 4.00 am ET, Italy's statistical office ISTAT is scheduled to release retail sales for March. Sales are forecast to grow 0.2 percent on a monthly basis after rising 0.1 percent in February.

At 4.30 am ET, UK S&P Global construction PMI data is due. Economists forecast the index to drop to 46.0 in April from 46.4 in the previous month.

At 5.00 am ET, Eurostat is set to release euro area retail sales for March. Sales are expected to fall 0.1 percent month-on-month, in contrast to the 0.3 percent rise in February.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
Finland's foreign trade deficit decreased in March from a year ago as exports grew faster than imports, preliminary figures from the Finnish Customs showed on Wednesday.

The trade deficit declined to EUR 890 million in March from EUR 990 million in the same month last year.

Exports surged 17.7 percent year-on-year in March, and imports were 16.6 percent higher.

The value of pulp exports increased by 70 percent from last year, and those of paper and board exports by 32 percent, the agency said.

Shipments to the EU countries grew by 20.5 percent in March, and imports from those countries rose by 11.4 percent. Exports to countries outside the EU climbed 13.5 percent, and imports from those countries increased by 12.1 percent.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
Five years after TVS Motor acquired the iconic British motorcycle brand, Norton Motorcycles, the company has deemed it fit to finally launch it in India. The company has revealed an estimate time frame for Norton Motorcycles to launch in India to rival other retro classic motorcycle brands like Royal Enfield, Triumph, Harley-Davidson, Jawa and Yezdi among others.

Norton Motorcycles India Launch

The iconic British motorcycle brand, Norton Motorcycles, has been a popular choice among buyers who are looking for a retro treat. Currently, the company offers three motorcycles  Commando 961, V4SV and V4CR. The prices for these motorcycles range from around Rs 20 lakh and Rs 50 lakh.

Norton Motorcycles was acquired by TVS Motor around five years ago and it has been a highly anticipated launch since this acquirement. Now, TVS Motor has confirmed that Norton Motorcycles will be introduced in India by the end of the year 2025. Probably via the CBU route, now that India-UK free trade agreement is expected to bring automotive tariffs from 100% to 10%, under a quota.

These three aforementioned motorcycles might launch initially through CBU route and serve as Halo products for Norton Motorcycles in India to set foot in the ground. These will be shipped into our market from the companys facility in Solihull, UK. Soon, we should expect local manufacturing of smaller-capacity motorcycles to compete in the 350cc-450cc motorcycle segment.

What to expect?

Speculations suggest that Norton Motorcycles is branching out its operations and is developing two new platforms. One of these will displace around 450cc (probably a single-cylinder unit) which should act as its most affordable offering. Second motorcycle could be a middle-weight offering that might displace around 650cc (probably a twin-cylinder unit).

With the historic India-UK FTA (Free Trade Agreement), both nations are poised to boost trade and revenue. This FTA will benefit British automakers too as tariffs could be reduced to just 10% down from around 100%. While the small-capacity motorcycles look like a foggy future, the launch of Commando 961 or V4SV or V4CR or all or some by 2025 end is more likely.

TVS Motor acquired Norton Motorcycles for around Rs 153 Cr, which looks like a relatively small sum in the grand scheme of things. There has been a significant investment of around Rs 1,000 Cr from TVS and the roadmap is set to launch six new motorcycles by 2027 end.
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- During the AUTO SHANGHAI 2025, Chinese mobility technology company Desay SV and artificial intelligence company Zhipu officially announced a strategic partnership to jointly develop a next-generation AI Native smart cockpit solution, designed to be "soulful and evolvable", according to a post on Desay SV's WeChat account.

The solution will leverage Desay SV's integrated capabilities in hardware architecture, middleware, model development, and upper-layer applications, while incorporating Zhipu's GLM large language models to enable seamless interaction across people, vehicles, and environments.

Photo credit: Desay SV

Integrating large AI models into vehicles is far more complex than a simple technical migrationit involves system-wide engineering challenges spanning hardware adaptation, data processing, algorithm optimization, and compliance with safety standards. By combining Desay SV's robust technical foundation and engineering execution with the comprehensive capabilities of Zhipu's GLM models, the partnership aims to break through the constraints of traditional in-vehicle computing architectures and overcome the systemic bottlenecks of embedding large models in automotive applications.

This collaboration marks the debut of Realtime modelssupporting real-time voice interactioninside a vehicle. Leveraging Desay SV's in-house developed cockpit domain control platform and multimodal sensor fusion technologies, the system enables AI Native's first-ever real-time three-dimensional analysis of environmental context, user status, and vehicle data. At the core is a millisecond-level intelligent interaction hub within the cockpit, capable of translating heterogeneous inputsincluding voice commands, gestures, and physiological signalsinto precise scenario-based services.

To ensure fluid user experiences, Desay SV has integrated Zhipu's low-latency real-time interaction model, alongside its proprietary spatial voiceprint localization algorithm and attention-tracking system. These technologies enable seamless interaction migration across screens, supported by a deeply optimized cockpit domain control system that creates a full-domain interaction matrix encompassing the instrument cluster, center display, P-HUD, and AR-HUDallowing intelligent services to intuitively follow the user's gaze.

Emotional interaction represents a major leap in AI evolution. The AI Native smart cockpit offers advanced emotional recognition capabilities, including Zhipu's real-time video call interaction model and Desay SV's unique voice arbitration mechanism to manage multi-source audio conflicts. When combined with biometric signal fusion algorithms, the virtual personal assistant (VPA) gains emotional awareness and proactive care features, delivering human-like services in complex driving environments and transforming the car into a truly empathetic travel companion.

The AI Native solution co-developed by Desay SV and Zhipu made its appearance at the AUTO SHANGHAI 2025 as part of Desay SV's latest Smart Solution 3.0. Unlike conventional in-car human-machine interaction systems, the Smart Solution 3.0 can not only understand voice commands and interpret gestures, but also accurately recognize users' emotionscreating a "warm and emotionally responsive" mobility experience that drew significant attention from industry professionals and tech enthusiasts alike.
A new genus and species of zhelestid mammal has been identified from the fossilized remains found in the Bayanshiree Formation in Mongolias Gobi Desert.

Named Ravjaa ishiii, the new species roamed Earth during the Cretaceous period, around 90 million years ago.

The ancient mammal was the size of a mouse and belonged to Zhelestidae, an eutherian mammal family widely distributed from Eurasia to North America in the Late Cretaceous.

Numerous exquisitely preserved mammal fossils unearthed from Late Cretaceous layers in the Gobi Desert of Mongolia have played a key role in understanding Mesozoic mammalian evolution, said Okayama University of Science doctoral candidate Tsukasa Okoshi and colleagues.

These splendid mammal fossils have been recovered mainly from the Baruungoyot and Djadokhta formations, but only two fragmentary remains of mammals have been collected from the underlying Bayanshiree Formation.

The new zhelestid fossil was found in 2019 at the Bayan Shiree locality of the Bayanshiree Formation.

The specimen is a 1-cm-long partial lower jaw with the distal portion of an ultimate premolar and the first to the third molars.

Finding such a tiny fossil in the vast expanse of the Gobi Desert feels like a gift from the Gobi Desert. Its nothing short of miraculous, said Okayama University of Sciences Professor Mototaka Saneyoshi.

Its unusually tall molars and distinctive jaw shape differ from known relatives, and therefore we erected a new genus and species, the paleontologists said.

The robust nature of the molars resembles those of seed and fruit-eating mammals, providing an intriguing insight that early eutherians were already exploiting resources created by flowering plants.

According to the team, Ravjaa ishiii is the first zhelestid from the Bayanshiree Formation and in fact the first discovered in Mongolia.

Ravjaa ishiii potentially represents the oldest member among zhelestids or as old as the currently known oldest zhelestids collected in Uzbekistan, suggesting the emergence of this group occurred around the Early/Late Cretaceous boundary to early Late Cretaceous, the researchers said.

Their paper was published online in the journal Acta Palaeontologica Polonica.

_____

Tsukasa Okoshi et al. 2025. New Late Cretaceous zhelestid mammal from the Bayanshiree Formation, Mongolia. Acta Palaeontologica Polonica 70 (1): 193-203; doi: 10.4202/app.01213.2024
A research team led by Professor Yong-Young Noh and Dr. Youjin Reo from the Department of Chemical Engineering at POSTECH (Pohang University of Science and Technology) has developed a groundbreaking technology poised to revolutionize next-generation displays and electronic devices. The project was a collaborative effort with Professors Ao Liu and Huihui Zhu from the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), and the findings were published in Nature Electronics on April 28th.

Every time we stream videos or play games on our smartphones, thousands of transistors operate tirelessly behind the scenes. These microscopic components function like traffic signals, regulating electric currents to display images and ensure smooth app operation. Transistors are typically categorized as n-type (electron transport) and p-type (hole transport), with n-type devices generally demonstrating superior performance. However, to achieve a high speed computing with a low power consumption, p-type transistors must also reach comparable efficiency.

To address this challenge, the research team focused on a novel p-type semiconducting material with a unique crystal structure: tin-based perovskites. This material has emerged as a promising candidate for high-performance p-type transistors. Traditionally, it has only been fabricated through a solution process -- a technique akin to soaking ink into paper -- which presents challenges in scalability and consistent quality.

In a significant breakthrough, the team successfully applied thermal evaporation, a process widely used across industries such as OLED TV and semiconductoring chips manufacturing, to produce high-quality caesium-tin-iodide (CsSnI 3 ) semiconductor layers. This technique involves vaporizing materials at high temperatures to form thin films on substrates.

Furthermore, by adding a small amount of lead chloride (PbCl 2 ), the researchers were able to improve the uniformity and crystallinity of the perovskite thin films. The resulting transistors exhibited outstanding performance, achieving a hole mobility of over 30 cm2/Vs and an on/off current ratio of 108 which are comparable to already commercialized n-type oxide semiconductors -- indicating rapid signal processing and low power consumption during switching.

This innovation not only enhances device stability but also enables the fabrication of large-area device arrays, effectively overcoming two major limitations of previous solution-based methods. Importantly, the technology is compatible with existing manufacturing equipment used in OLED display production, presenting significant potential to reduce costs and streamline fabrication processes.

"This technology opens up exciting possibilities for the commercialization of ultra-thin, flexible, and high-resolution displays in smartphones, TVs, vertically stacked integrated circuits and even wearable electronics because low processing temperature below 300 ?," said Professor Yong-Young Noh.

This research was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) under the Mid-Career Researcher Program, the National Semiconductor Laboratory Core Technology Development Project, and Samsung Display.
A University of California, Riverside-led research team has adapted an intervention for childhood obesity prevention to better serve Latina mothers, non-maternal caregivers, and families of low-income backgrounds in Inland Southern California. The study, spearheaded by medical anthropologist Ann Cheney, could make significant contributions to public health by ensuring that early childhood obesity prevention strategies begin in infancy with infant feeding and are culturally and linguistically relevant for immigrant communities.

The intervention, originally known as Healthy Beginnings, was developed in Australia to address infant feeding practices among low-income mothers. Cheney's team adapted this intervention to meet the unique needs of Latina mothers and their trusted caregivers. By incorporating the feedback of mothers and caregivers, the researchers identified key cultural meanings and family dynamics to shape the intervention's delivery.

"We knew for this intervention to be effective, it had to align with the cultural values and lived experiences of the families it aimed to serve," said Cheney, an associate professor of social medicine, population, and public health in the School of Medicine. "Latina mothers and other senior women like grandmothers are central to the health and well-being of their families. We therefore needed to ensure that the intervention's design reflected their beliefs, practices, and the social and emotional context of their lives. Our study shows that culturally sensitive approaches are crucial for fostering trust, engagement, and sustainable health behaviors."

The research involved Inland Southern California mothers of infants aged four to six months, as well as their caregivers and members of an intervention design and development group. The researchers conducted qualitative interviews and surveys from spring 2021 to winter 2022 to gather data that allowed for adaptations in the intervention's content and delivery methods. Changes included the incorporation of cultural meanings around infant feeding, maternal mental health, and feeding practices, as well as adjustments to intervention delivery methods. Other changes included more frequent sessions, reduced time per session, and the involvement of community health workers to facilitate delivery.

Results from the study highlighted the importance of involving non-maternal caregivers in the adaptation process.

"These caregivers, who play a pivotal role in the daily lives of children, helped shape a program that resonates with the community, ensuring that the intervention is not only effective but also culturally and linguistically appropriate," Cheney said.

Cheney explained that the success of the project underscores the need for public health interventions to consider the broader ecological and social contexts in which families live.

"When we involve families, especially non-maternal caregivers, in the adaptation of programs, we create interventions that have a greater chance of success and sustainability," she said. "This research offers a valuable model for other communities facing similar challenges."

According to Cheney, the study emphasizes the importance of engaging culturally diverse, historically marginalized communities in public health research. Tailored interventions that respect local values enhance acceptance and sustainability of health behaviors, benefiting families and communities, she said.

"The Healthy Beginnings intervention, adapted for Southern California's Latinx population, serves as a model for future obesity interventions in diverse communities in the United States," Cheney added.

Cheney was joined in the research by scientists at UCR, Brown University in Rhode Island, the National Institutes of Health, and UC Irvine.

The research was funded by the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities of the National Institutes of Health under award number U54MD013368.
Current anticancer treatments essentially target the primary tumour cells that proliferate quickly, but do not effectively eliminate specific cancer cells able to adapt to existing treatments and which exhibit high metastatic potential1. Yet metastases are responsible for 70% of cancer deaths.

A French research team from Institut Curie, the CNRS and Inserm has just developed a new class of small molecules that bring about the destruction of cell membranes, and hence triggers cell death. Led by scientists at the Laboratory of Biomedicine (Institut Curie/CNRS/Inserm)2, this study is based on the remarkable properties of what are known as drug-tolerant persister cancer cells, with high metastatic potential. The latter express a large quantity of the protein CD44 at their surface, allowing them to internalise more iron, making them more aggressive and able to adapt to standard treatments. These cells are consequently more sensitive to ferroptosis, a cell death process catalysed by iron, which causes oxidation and the degradation of membrane lipids.

Thanks to innovative chemistry developed by the team led by Raphael Rodriguez, researchers showed that the cell death initiated by iron in lysosomes3 can alter the structure of intracellular membrane compartments. In the lysosomal compartment, iron can react with hydrogen peroxide, generating oxygen-centred radicals, highly-reactive chemical entities that damage cell membranes. This reaction then propagates in the cell forming lipid peroxides in the membranes of other cellular organelles, ultimately causing cell death. Ferroptosis thus results from the cell's failure to repair the membrane damage.

Using these initial discoveries, the scientists successfully conceived and synthesised a new class of small molecules that can activate ferroptosis: phospholipid degraders. The molecules possess one fragment that allows them to target the cell membrane (plasma membrane) -- and to then accumulate in lysosomes via endocytosis -- as well as another part that binds to and increases the reactivity of iron, which is abundant in this compartment of pro-metastatic cancer cells, thereby triggering ferroptosis. The molecule fentomycin (Fento-1) was designed to be fluorescent, allowing scientists to visualise it in the cell using high-resolution microscopy, as well as to confirm its localisation in lysosomes.

After the administration of Fento-1, the researchers observed a significant reduction in tumor growth in pre-clinical models for metastatic breast cancer, in addition to a pronounced cytotoxic effect on biopsies of pancreatic cancer and sarcoma patients, thereby confirming the treatment's effectiveness at the pre-clinical level4 for these cancers, for which the effectiveness of standard chemotherapy is limited.

Clinical tests are needed to show that this ability to induce ferroptosis could serve as a therapeutic avenue that complements current chemotherapy in the fight against cancer, especially by targeting cancer cells that are pro-metastatic and refractory to standard treatments.

This research notably received support from the Ligue contre le cancer (3 Equipe Labellisees), the Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme of the European Union (ERC), the Fondation pour la recherche medicale, the Fondation Charles Defforey-Institut de France, the Klaus Grohe Foundation, l'Institut national du cancer, the Ile-de-France Region, the ANR, the Fondation Bettencourt Schueller, the CNRS, Institut Curie, and Inserm.

1 -- Tumour cells that detach from their site of origin and migrate toward other parts of the body, forming new tumours known as metastases. This ability to spread is a characteristic of advanced cancers.

2 -- This research primarily involved scientists from the Laboratory of Biomedicine (Institut Curie/CNRS/Inserm/PSL Research University), the Cancer Research Center of Marseille (Aix-Marseille Universite/CNRS/Inserm/Institut Paoli Calmette), the APHP (Hopital Paul-Brousse), the Institute of Molecular Chemistry and Materials of Orsay (CNRS/Universite Paris-Saclay), Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen, Julius-Maximilians-Universitat Wurzburg,, Columbia University and the University of Ottawa.

3 -- Lysosomes are the organelles responsible for the degradation of cell debris, biological macromolecules, foreign particles (bacteria, viruses, and parasites), and damaged intracellular organelles.

4 -- Pre-clinical tests on animals showed a significant decrease in tumour volume after the lymphatic injection of Fento-1, with tolerance to treatment.
Research led by climate scientists from the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) reveals that millions of today's young people will live through unprecedented lifetime exposure to heatwaves, crop failures, river floods, droughts, wildfires and tropical storms under current climate policies. If global temperatures rise by 3.5C by 2100, 92% of children born in 2020 will experience unprecedented heatwave exposure over their lifetime, affecting 111 million children. Meeting the Paris Agreement's 1.5C target could protect 49 million children from this risk.

This is only for one birth year; when instead taking into account all children who are between 5 and 18 years old today, this adds up to 1.5 billion children affected under a 3.5C scenario, and with 654 million children that can be protected by remaining under the 1.5C threshold. The study also highlights that children with high socioeconomic vulnerability face an even greater likelihood of unprecedented exposure to climate extremes in their lifetime. Deep cuts in greenhouse gas emissions are urgently needed to safeguard the lives of children all around the world.

Climate change's disproportionate burden on youth

Climate extremes, including heatwaves, crop failures, river floods, tropical cyclones, wildfires and droughts, will intensify with continued atmospheric warming. Today's children will endure more climate extremes then any previous generation.

"In 2021, we demonstrated how children are to face disproportionate increases in extreme event exposure -- especially in low-income countries. Now, we examined where the cumulative exposure to climate extremes across one's lifetime will far exceed that which would have been experienced in a pre-industrial climate" says Wim Thiery, professor of climate science at VUB and senior author of the study.

"In this new study, living an unprecedented life means that without climate change, one would have less than a 1-in-10,000 chance of experiencing that many climate extremes across one's lifetime" says Dr. Luke Grant, lead author and climate scientist at the VUB and Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). "This is a stringent threshold that identifies populations facing climate extremes far beyond what could be expected without man-made climate change." The threshold varies by location and type of climate extreme.

By combining demographic data and climate model projections of climate extremes for each location on earth, the researchers calculated the percentage of each generation born between 1960 and 2020 who will face unprecedented exposure to climate extremes in their lifetime.

Generational impact of climate change

The younger a person is, the higher their likelihood of unprecedented exposure to climate extremes. Even if we successfully limit global warming to 1.5C, 52% of children born in 2020 will face unprecedented heatwave exposure, compared to only 16% of those born in 1960. For heatwaves, the effect is particularly pronounced for those born after 1980, when climate change scenarios increasingly dictate exposure levels.

"By stabilizing our climate around 1.5 C above pre-industrial temperatures, about half of today's young people will be exposed to an unprecedented number of heatwaves in their lifetime. Under a 3.5 C scenario, over 90% will endure such exposure throughout their lives," warns Grant. "The same picture emerges for other climate extremes examined, though with slightly lower affected fractions of the population. Yet the same unfair generational differences in unprecedented exposure is observed." Children in tropical countries will bear the worst burden under a 1.5 C scenario. However, under high-emission scenarios, nearly all children worldwide face the prospect of living an unprecedented life (see Figure 2).

Climate vulnerability and social injustice

The study also highlights the social injustice of climate change and its impacts. Under current climate policies, the most socioeconomically vulnerable children born in 2020 will almost all (95%) endure unprecedented exposure to heatwaves in their lifetime, compared to 78% for the least vulnerable group. "Precisely the most vulnerable children experience the worst escalation of climate extremes. With limited resources and adaptation options, they face disproportionate risks," says Thiery.

Urgent Need for Global Climate Action

Ahead of COP30 in Brazil, nations must submit updated climate commitments. Under current policies, global warming would reach around 2.7 C this century. This study and the related Save The Children report emphasize the urgency of keeping global warming below 1.5 C for the children of today and tomorrow.

Inger Ashing, CEO of Save the Children International, said: "Across the world, children are forced to bear the brunt of a crisis they are not responsible for. Dangerous heat that puts their health and learning at risk; cyclones that batter their homes and schools; creeping droughts that shrivel up crops and shrink what's on their plates. Amid this daily drumbeat of disasters, children plead with us not to switch off. This new research shows there is still hope, but only if we act urgently and ambitiously to rapidly limit warming temperatures to 1.5 C, and truly put children front and centre of our response to climate change."

"With global emissions still rising and the planet only 0.2 C away from the 1.5 C threshold, world leaders must step up to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lessen the climate burden on today's youth," concludes Thiery.

The study was accomplished by researchers from Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Environment and Climate Change Canada, KU Leuven, the Royal Meteorological Institute of Belgium (RMI), and ETH Zurich.

Supplementary information

The numbers reported in our new study focus on one single birth cohort: children born in 2020, who are today's five year olds. Climate extremes will affect all generations, with children the most. We are providing therefore here below numbers that take into account all children who are between 5 and 18 years old today, which represents a total population of 1.69 billion children.

Heatwaves

Under a 1.5 C pathway, 855 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to heatwaves.

Under a 2.7 C pathway, 1353 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to heatwaves.

Under a 3.5 C pathway, 1509 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to heatwaves.

Crop failures

Under a 1.5 C pathway, 316 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to crop failures.

Under a 2.7 C pathway, 400 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to crop failures.

Under a 3.5 C pathway, 431 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to crop failures.

Wildfires

Under a 1.5 C pathway, 119 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to wildfires.

Under a 2.7 C pathway, 134 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to wildfires.

Under a 3.5 C pathway, 147 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to wildfires.

Droughts

Under a 1.5 C pathway, 89 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to droughts.

Under a 2.7 C pathway, 111 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to droughts.

Under a 3.5 C pathway, 116 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to droughts.

River floods

Under a 1.5 C pathway, 132 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to river floods.

Under a 2.7 C pathway, 188 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to river floods.

Under a 3.5 C pathway, 191 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to river floods.

Tropical cyclones

Under a 1.5 C pathway, 101 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to tropical cyclones.

Under a 2.7 C pathway, 163 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to tropical cyclones.

Under a 3.5 C pathway, 163 million children aged 5-18 in 2025 face unprecedented lifetime exposure to tropical cyclones.
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- At the AUTO SHANGHAI 2025, iMotion Technology ("iMotion"), a Chinese provider of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), signed a strategic framework agreement with Malaysian automotive parts giant Delloyd. The two parties will leverage their respective strengths in technology, product development, and market reach to deepen cooperation in production and sales, jointly promoting the adoption of intelligent driving solutionsincluding integrated ADASin Malaysia and the broader Southeast Asian market.

Photo credit: iMotion

iMotion said its ADAS solutions have already entered mass production across nearly 30 vehicle models in over 100 countries and regions worldwide. The company supports a dual-track technology strategy, offering full-stack solutions based on both domestically made chips such as Horizon Robotics' Journey 6 and international platforms like TI and Renesas. It has also established an R&D and service center in Germany to serve its European customers. The partnership with Delloyd marks a significant step in expanding iMotion's global footprint, enabling deeper localized operations and more tailored solutions for regional markets.

Founded in 1984, Delloyd Group is a flagship enterprise in Malaysia's local automotive supply chain and a long-term strategic partner to major OEMs across Malaysia and Southeast Asia. Through collaborations with international partners, Delloyd has made significant progress in areas such as product innovation and quality control, while also helping OEMs reduce costs and improve efficiency through localized manufacturing. This has supported Malaysia's broader ambition to transform its automotive sector into a strategic pillar industry.
Mandatory Photo Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

With Sunday nights win over the Houston Rockets in Game 7 of their playoff series, the Golden State Warriors shift their attention to their next opponents, the Minnesota Timberwolves. But before that series got going on Tuesday, Draymond Green got a parting shot in at one of the Rockets, Dillon Brooks.

On his podcast, The Draymond Green Show with Baron Davis, Green talked about what Brooks did after Game 7 ended.

Dillon Brooks ran off the court, Green said. So when I say, You see what guys is made of, he ran off the court. Aint shake nobody up.

Green then discussed how Brooks acknowledged that he was targeting the injured hand of Warriors star Steph Curry.

You admitted that you was trying to hurt Stephs hand which, again, fine by me, bro, Green said. Like, I get it. We all get it, when you hoop. If youre gonna be on that type of time, if youre gonna wear shades in the press conference, you gonna be talking, you gonna be Mr. Big Bad Wolf, dont lose and then not face the music. Dont be that guy.

Dillon Brooks ran off the court but thats who Dillon Brooks is, you know what Im saying? You a sucka.@Money23Green GOES OFF on Brooks for how he acted after the Rockets lost Game 7 to the Warriors pic.twitter.com/YYNAhuR5Oj  The Draymond Green Show with Baron Davis (@DraymondShow) May 6, 2025

This isnt the first time Brooks has done something like this after a disappointing playoff series. In 2023, after the Memphis Grizzlies fell to the Los Angeles Lakers in the first round, Brooks was fined for skipping his media requirements after the clinching game.

I had a moment with Dillon Brooks back when he was with Memphis, Green said. And I said, The dynasty start after you. And the reason I said that is because things like that.

But thats why Dillon Brooks is, Green added. You a sucka, manWhen guys lose respect for you in this league, it dont matter and its gonna catch you in the end. Dillon Brooks couldnt come through in this series, in large part because nobody on the court respects you. When youre trying to compete at the highest level and youre that type of guy, it aint beneficial to your team and it catch you in the end.
Credit: Telemundo 39

Kansas City Telemundo reporter Adam Manzano tragically died while covering Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles.

The original arrests was made in the case back in March when Danette Colbert was charged with second-degree murder in connection to Manzanos death. Colbert was seen exiting Manzanos hotel room the night he died and was later found with his credit cards and cell phone.

An additional suspect, Rickey White, was charged with a number of crimes including simple robbery, bank fraud, and computer fraud. Police believed the two to be linked in the case and working in tandem.

But now according to the Associated Press, White is also now facing second-degree murder charges in the case along with Colbert as local police have continued their investigation into the death of Adam Manzano while covering Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans. Police did not offer any new details about the more severe charge now facing both defendants.

Adan Manzano, a 27-year-old reporter and anchor for Telemundo based in Kansas City, Missouri, was found dead Feb. 5 in his hotel room in the New Orleans suburb of Kenner. A woman seen on security video leaving Manzanos room was later charged with second-degree murder and with stealing his credit cards and cellphone. Kenner police announced Monday that an accomplice, 34-year-old Rickey White, has also been charged with second-degree murder. White was arrested in Florida in March on robbery and fraud charges related to Manzanos death, then extradited to Louisiana.

Manzano was found in his hotel room after what was discovered to be a mixture of alcohol and Xanax, in spite of the fact that he had no prescription for the medicine on record. According to Louisiana law, someone can be charged with second-degree murder for distributing drugs that are linked to a cause of death or by committing other crimes, like robbery, in association with someones death.

The reporter had joined the local Kansas City Telemundo outlet in 2021 and was a graduate of Kansas State University. He was just 27 years old.
* Xi's upcoming visit to Russia is expected to inject new momentum into the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era. * Under the guidance of the two heads of state, China and Russia will further jointly advocate the correct historical view of World War II, and work together to maintain global strategic stability, so as to make the due contributions of responsible major countries to the advancement of international fairness and justice. * China and Russia collaborate through platforms like the SCO and BRICS, which has not only promoted a multipolar world, but also empowered the Global South with a greater voice in global governance and a bigger role in shaping the rules on major international issues. BEIJING, May 6 (Xinhua) -- At the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping will pay a state visit to Russia from Wednesday to Saturday and attend in Moscow the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War. More than 80 years ago, the peoples of China, the Soviet Union and other countries fought side by side and secured victory in the World Anti-Fascist War, opening a new chapter in human history. As the world is undergoing accelerating changes unseen in a century, the international community demands greater global efforts to face common challenges, and to build a community with a shared future. Xi's upcoming visit is expected to inject new momentum into the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era. Moreover, it will demonstrate the two major countries' commitment to working with the rest of the world to safeguard the outcomes of the victory in World War II, uphold international fairness and justice, and maintain world peace and stability. LONG-LASTING FRIENDSHIP History and reality show that China and Russia are good neighbors that cannot be moved away, and true friends who share weal and woe, support each other and achieve common development, Xi said in his phone conversation with Putin in February. The coming visit marks Xi's 11th trip to Russia since he became Chinese president. The two heads of state have met more than 40 times on different occasions over the years. Their close communication provides strategic guidance, under which China-Russia relations have matured into a resilient and stable partnership characterized by deepening political trust, closer strategic alignment and sustained practical cooperation. In 2024, bilateral trade rose to 244.8 billion U.S. dollars, making China the largest trading partner of Russia for 15 consecutive years. In December 2024, the China-Russia east-route natural gas pipeline was fully completed. Cooperation in emerging sectors such as the digital economy, e-commerce, bio-medicine, scientific and technological innovation, as well as green energy continues to expand. The two countries' long-lasting friendship has grown increasingly popular among the two peoples. The mutual visa exemption agreement for group tours has encouraged more robust two-way travel. Hundreds of cultural events have been held in succession with the framework of the China-Russia Year of Culture. Andrey Denisov, first deputy chair of Russia's Federation Council Committee on Foreign Affairs and former Russian ambassador to China, said the strategic guidance of the two heads of state is a key factor in ensuring the steady and long-term development of the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era. The two leaders are expected to hold extensive and in-depth discussions on both bilateral cooperation and multilateral issues, and the Russian side has high expectations for that, he added. INDELIBLE CONTRIBUTION Over 80 years ago, China and Russia, as the main battlefields in Asia and Europe during World War II, made tremendous sacrifices and indelible contribution to the final victory. In a signed article published by the Russian Gazette newspaper ahead of his visit to Russia in 2015, Xi quoted Russian historian Vasily Klyuchevsky as saying, "If we lost the memory of our past, our mind and soul would be lost in the darkness," in a bid to express his remembrance of the history of the World Anti-Fascist War and earnest expectations for the two nations to join hands to maintain world peace and stability. The bitter lessons drawn from World War II have taught mankind that the strong preying on the weak, the law of the jungle, warlike or hegemonic policies, the winner-takes-all mindset and zero-sum game do not benefit coexistence, peace or development of mankind, Xi wrote in the article. Noha Bakir, a professor of political science at American University in Cairo, said China and Russia, drawing lessons from history, shoulder the important responsibility of safeguarding international stability and cooperation amid today's complex global landscape. By studying, restoring and spreading the true history, people can better understand World War II and the post-war international order, thus they will resist the attempts to distort historical facts, he added. Andrey Fesyun, deputy director of the Institute of Asian and African Studies at Moscow State University, said that under the guidance of the two heads of state, China and Russia will further jointly advocate the correct historical view of World War II, and work together to maintain global strategic stability, so as to make the due contributions of responsible major countries to the advancement of international fairness and justice. SPEARHEADING PROGRESS Eighty years ago, representatives from multiple countries, including China and the Soviet Union, gathered in the U.S. city of San Francisco, and signed the Charter of the United Nations, laying the cornerstone of the post-war international order. The preamble to the charter solemnly states the commitment "to practice tolerance and live together in peace with one another as good neighbors, and to unite our strength to maintain international peace and security." China and Russia have natural responsibilities to make joint efforts to steer and promote global governance in a direction that meets the expectations of the international community and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, said Xi when meeting with Putin in March 2023. And it was during Xi's first visit to Russia in 2013 as Chinese president that he first proposed the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind. As permanent members of the UN Security Council and major countries in the world, China and Russia have been working closely on the world stage. Beijing and Moscow firmly uphold the international system with the United Nations at its core, the international order underpinned by international law, as well as the fundamental norms governing international relations based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. They are also advocates of true multilateralism. The two nations have also joined hands to promote political solutions to international and regional hot-spot issues. They have strengthened communication and coordination within multilateral mechanisms such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), BRICS and the Group of 20, and are jointly committed to advancing a multipolar world and the democratization of international relations. Adhere Cavince, a Kenyan scholar on international relations, said that China and Russia collaborate through platforms like the SCO and BRICS, which has not only promoted a multipolar world, but also empowered the Global South with a greater voice in global governance and a bigger role in shaping the rules on major international issues. Ilgar Velizade, head of the South Caucasus Club of Political Scientists from Azerbaijan, said that the growing strength of multilateral cooperation mechanisms such as the SCO and BRICS represents a powerful embodiment of the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. If countries engage in an active, constructive and sustainable dialogue focused on common interests, the world will be safer, the global economy more sustainable and humanity's future far more promising, he said.
President Donald Trump is currently engaged in multiple contentious initiatives, sparking concerns globally.

Apart from the ongoing trade war, he has proposed imposing 100 percent tariffs on foreign-made films, causing distress in Hollywood.

Countries like Canada, which offer incentives to attract American filmmakers, are also affected by this move.

Trump's urge to reopen Alcatraz and his clash with California Governor Gavin Newsom over film industry tax incentives have added to the administration's eventful week.





Additionally, a controversial AI-generated image depicting Trump as the Pope has stirred outrage among Catholics and the media.

Surprisingly, the Trump administration aligned with the Biden administration on the abortion pill mifepristone, seeking to dismiss a lawsuit that aimed to restrict access to the drug. This move, filed in Texas, has raised questions about judicial influence and the administration's stance on reproductive rights.
Nestled at the edge of the Black Hills, Rapid City is no stranger to wild weather swingswhere a sunny 80-degree afternoon can turn into snow flurries and 40 by morning. This unpredictable climate makes growing fruits and vegetables a serious challenge, even during the so-called stable seasons.

South Dakota Mines professor Rajesh Shende, Ph.D., interim department head and professor in the Karen M. Swindler Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, and Shende LLC business owner Anuradha (Anu) Shende, Ph.D., and Mines associate research professor, have just completed the first phase of a United States Department of Agriculture Small Business Innovation Research (USDA-SBIR) grant awarded to Shende LLC, in which they built an energy-efficient extreme weather solar greenhouse with a goal of helping local small farms grow produce year-round.

The $115,504 grant funded a greenhouse that uses a compound parabolic solar concentrator fitted with a single-axis solar tracker and an oil heat transfer system to convert solar energy to thermal energy. The solar concentrator was supplied by Environmental Solar Systems, a Massachusetts-based company. The prototype, built in the couples backyard, has a maze of pipes three feet under the ground that circulates solar-heated oil to warm the soil.

The 75-square-foot planting area is insulated underground with a protective wall, ensuring stable conditions for growth. Clear triple-wall polycarbonate glazing16 mm thickmaximizes solar gain while providing excellent insulation and hail resistance, Anu explained. Inside the greenhouse, sensors monitor key metrics like humidity and temperature, transmitting data every 10 minutes to a computer inside the couple's home.

A $33,000 subaward from Shende LLC supported Grant Bauer (MS ChemE 24), who worked on the project while obtaining his masters degree.

Local contractors Bang-up Construction and Silverback Plumbing helped with the construction of the greenhouse prototype. Shannon Mutschelknaus, owner of Wayward Springs Acres in Aurora, S.D., consulted on the project.

Rapid City was declared one of the cities with the most unpredictable weather, Anu said. The existing winter greenhouses perform poorly in the frequent high winds, hailstorms and cold winters. Rapid City urban farmers have limited crop choices and a short six to seven-month growing period. There is a great need to innovate greenhouse structures for superior performance and durability for locations with extreme and unpredictable weather such as Rapid City.

With high demand but little supply, most produce is imported from warmer states, leading to higher prices and often lower quality. The short growing season and unpredictable weather also limit area farmers to a few crops such as corn, soybeans and wheat.

If this takes off, we will be able to grow almost any plant, Anu said. The team has identified many changes that will improve solar heat retention, especially during consecutive cold and cloudy days.

Anus idea for the greenhouse stemmed from a hobby she started during the pandemic.

Traditional winter greenhouses depend on fossil fuels for heating and cooling, making them cost-prohibitive. Although solar greenhouses harness free solar energy for heating, most winter solar models still require supplemental fossil fuels and are not built to withstand the frequent high winds and hailstorms common in Rapid City.

China has had success in off-season crop cultivation with similar solar greenhouses that operate year-round in the coldest areas of the country, Anu said. This type of sustainable, affordable winter greenhouse could bring significant supplemental income to small farmers from growing warm-weather produce all year round, Anu said, citing produce such as okra, eggplant, zucchini, green beans, and cucumbers, which are either unavailable or expensive during winter.

Rajesh and Anu have completed the first prototype of the greenhouse and are working to overcome initial design challenges to enhance the final product.

With their innovative solar greenhouse design, Rajesh and Anu are paving the way for a more sustainable, resilient future for local farmersbringing year-round, affordable, high-quality produce within reach for Rapid City as well as other unpredictable weather locations.
This story is part of the

Nonprofit Journal Project

, an initiative focused on nonprofit leaders and programs across Metro Detroit. This series is made possible with the generous support of our partners, the

Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation

,

Michigan Nonprofit Association

and

Co.act Detroit

.

At first glance, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (whose members are commonly known as Mormons) and the various sects of Islam might look like they have little in common.In fact, they share multiple common values: modesty in dress, adherence to religious rituals unfamiliar to people outside their faiths, and a fundamental belief in helping others in need.Those common values have led to a partnership between the Westland stake (a group of local church congregations, similar to a Christian diocese) of the LDS church and Zaman International , to help Zamans mostly immigrant, female clientele to overcome barriers and enjoy a full and productive life.We believe as disciples of Jesus Christ that we should reach out to everyone, not just those within our faith community, says Rachel Cannon, director of communications for the Westland stake. We believe every person is a child of God and is of worth and is worth helping. There is very much in alignment with what we believe about who we are as humans and what we should be doing with our fellow humans, and that alignment has been a big part of producing that special relationship we have with Zaman.Some of the fruits of that relationship have been church members gathering household goods and winter gear to help Afghan refugees who came to the United States after the war in Afghanistan ended, as well as sponsoring several refugees through the U.S. refugee resettlement program.The church also helped support the opening of Zamans health clinic, and provides food to the Zaman food pantry through its Bishops Storehouse commodities program.Many people may be familiar with seeing young men clad in white shirts and black pants, riding their bikes around the city. These young men are on a mission that is a rite of passage in the Mormon church, where they spend two years living in almost any location around the world and furthering the message of the church.Young women also serve, for a shorter period of time. Often, Zaman hosts these young people as volunteers, and the interactions between them and Zaman clients reflect a sense of shared humanity across language barriers and different cultures.Cannon related one story of a young woman (known as a sister) who was volunteering with the Zamn sewing program that teaches clients to operate a commercial sewing business. It was lunchtime, and the Zaman clients gathered to eat together and were speaking in Arabic.The sister did not speak Arabic and was taking a later lunch, so she sat at a table by herself. The women noticed this, and came over to offer her a banana because they noticed she didnt have any food. This experience of kindness and shared humanity was incredibly meaningful to her.Most people grow up in one type of situation in a world, and you think that isworld, Cannon says. When you sit down with the people and you're getting to know the people and you're trying to help and lift the people every day, it changes your understanding of the challenges that people face. It changes your understanding of what it means to live out your faith and what it means to lift others.Another commonality between the clients of Zaman and the Mormon church is the practice of fasting. In Islam, adherents are expected to fast from sunup to sundown during the month of Ramadan.Mormons also fast for 24 hours every month, and are expected to donate what they would have spent on food and beverages over those 24 hours to hunger relief within the church. Its those donations that pay for the food in the Bishops Storehouse that stock Zamans food pantry, says Greg Geiger, an ordained bishop in the LDS church and president of the Interfaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit.Fasting for 30 days is pretty challenging, but also going for 24 hours without food is going to be challenging as well," Geiger says, adding that fasting creates compassion for those that are hungry not by choice.The relationship with the church has been incredibly helpful for Zaman and its clients, says Monica Boomer, chief impact officer of Zaman International. It's almost impossible to capture just how monumental this support has been for Zaman, she says. To be able to sit down with a partner like the church and have frank conversations about what the most effective investment will be, whether it's time, whether it's finances, to really make an impact on the lives of the women and children and refugees Zaman serves; it's unlike really any other partnership. They're really thought partners with us.As part of its partnership with Zaman, the Wayne-Westland stake is collaborating with several other organizations in the area to identify needs in the community and figure out ways to meet them collectively.Cannon points out that the western Wayne County area near Zamans Inkster headquarters does not have the kind of large social service organizations that a city like Detroit has available, and this collaboration aims to help address that need.Looking forward, both Geiger and Cannon say the church intends to continue its partnership with Zaman because its been so positive for both entities. It's hard to say exactly what's going to happen, but that we are committed to continuing to do good together, Cannon says.
European shares fell at the open on Wednesday as investors digested the latest moves in US-China trade talks and awaited an interest rate decision from the Federal Reserve.

The pan-regional Stoxx 600 index was down 0.36% in early deals. Germany's DAX was flat after bigger-than-expected a jump in factory orders in March.

Orders rose by 3.6% between February and March, according to the federal statistics office, beating analysts expectations of a 1.3% increase. Without major orders, demand was up by 3.2%.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and chief trade negotiator Jamieson Greer will meet China's top economic official in Switzerland this weekend for talks amid the ongoing trade war between the worlds biggest economies.

Concerns about how Trumps tariff wars will play out are still causing jitters, even though the door is open to a deal with China, with talks scheduled for this weekend," said Hargreaves Lansdown analyst Susannah Streeter.

"China is aiming to bolster its resilience and ability to withstand trade turmoil by unveiling a range of stimulus measures. Its being seen as tactical positioning to try and give its negotiator a firmer hand in discussions with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Switzerland."

In equity news, Novo Nordisk rose after the anti-obesity drugmaker beat forecast with its first-quarter operating profit, although it cut its full-year sales and profit outlook amid weak US prescription data.

Danish medical equipment maker Ambu fell 11% after reporting second-quarter sales and earnings below expectations.

Reporting by Frank Prenesti for Sharecast.com
Stocks in the UK are set to start the morning a tad lower despite a break in the clouds as regards US-China trade talks.

Overnight, Beijing and Washington announced that US Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, and the country's Trade Representative, Jamieson Greer, would hold talks with their Chinese counterparts, in Switzerland, at the weekend.

Chinese authorities also carried out a 50 basis point cut in lenders' reserve requirement ratio, while the seven-day reverse repo rate was reduced to 1.4%.

"Toss in relending tools for everything from eldercare to tech and SMEs, and its clear: Beijing is throwing liquidity at the wall, hoping something sticks," said Stephen Innes, managing partner at SPI Asset Management.

"But the markets reaction? Predictably muted."

As of 0633 GMT, futures tracking the FTSE 100 were slipping by 15.50 points to 8,578.0.

In parallel, the S&P 500 mini futures contract was trading up by 23.50 points at 5,649.25.

June gold futures on COMEX were off by 0.67% to $3,400/oz..

Also on investors' radar was an Indian jet strike against what New Delhi described as terrorist training camps inside Pakistan, although both countries had reportedly signalled their desire not to escalate.

Still ahead for later in the day, rate-setters in the US were due to meet after the close of London markets.

No change in rates was anticipated, but investors were keen for any hints that rate cuts might be forthcoming in the third quarter.

Defence engineer BAE reports in line trading

BAE Systems said trading year-to-date was in line with management expectations and reaffirmed its full-year guidance. The FTSE 100 defence specialist noted a strong order backlog and robust pipeline, providing visibility and underpinning long-term growth. It also noted continued investment to support expansion and stated it is well positioned to benefit from increased defence spending.

Online rail ticketing platform Trainline reported a sharp rise in adjusted core earnings on the back of a 12% jump in sales. Adjusted EBITDA rose 30% to 159m, while operating profit surged by 54% to 86m. Group net ticket sales came in at 5.9bn.
BAE Systems said in an update on Wednesday that trading so far this year had been in line with expectations, reaffirming its full-year 2025 guidance as it highlighted strong operational performance and a robust order backlog.

The FTSE 100 defence specialist said in a statement ahead of its annual general meeting that it was maintaining its outlook for revenue growth of 7% to 9% and an 8% to 10% rise in both underlying EBIT and underlying earnings per share, based on 2024 comparatives.

Free cash flow was expected to exceed 1.1bn.

The company said its forecast remains based on a constant GBP-USD exchange rate of 1.28, consistent with last years average.

Recent contract wins included a $356m award for long-lead procurement of armoured multi-purpose vehicles, a near-$800m extension of its integration support contract with the US Air Force, and more than $360m in amphibious combat vehicle contracts from the US Marine Corps.

Additional orders include artillery and radar systems for nearly $300m, domestic and export missile system awards of around 600 million via MBDA, and the next phase of Canadas River-class destroyer programme.

BAE said global defence spending trends continue to support long-term growth.

The UKs commitment to raise defence spending to 2.5% of GDP from 2027, along with rising budgets across Europe, the US, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, was expected to present further opportunities.

The group noted that its product portfolio was well aligned with capability priorities across its core markets.

BAE said it was continuing to invest heavily in capacity, infrastructure and innovation, following record R&D and capital spending in 2024.

Major investments included a new shipbuild assembly hall in Glasgow and a repair complex in Florida, both due to become operational this summer.

The company said it was planning to recruit over 2,400 early-career roles in the UK this year to support future growth.

Subject to shareholder approval, a final dividend of 20.6p per share would be paid on 2 June.

As of 6 May, 392m of BAEs three-year, up-to-1.5bn, share buyback programme had been completed.

We've had a strong start to 2025 and are maintaining our guidance for the full year, said chief executive officer Charles Woodburn.

During this time where the defence and security landscape is rapidly evolving, we are focused on delivering our long-term programme commitments to our customers, while investing in our business to boost capacity, drive efficiencies and shape our portfolio to support future growth.

The group said it would report its interim results for the six months to 30 June on 30 July.

At 0941 BST, shares in BAE Systems were down 0.57% at 1,760.5p.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.
Tritax Big Box REIT said on Wednesday that its bespoke logistics and data centre developments were continuing to offer superior risk-adjusted returns, with strong occupational demand and a significant opportunity to more than double rental income in the medium term.

The FTSE 250 real estate investment trust said in a trading update released alongside its annual general meeting that it was seeing continued strength in occupier demand, with five million square feet of take-up in the first quarter of 2025, and a further 12.9 million square feet under offer.

While speculative development starts remained low, increased market vacancy to 6.3% was largely attributed to a rise in second-hand space.

Rental growth had remained resilient, with MSCI reporting a 1.2% increase in the first quarter, in line with the same period last year.

Prime yields remained stable at 5.25%.

Tritax highlighted a record 28% reversionary potential across its portfolio, which it expected to unlock through active asset management.

Year-to-date lease events covering 8.9% of the portfolio had added 2.3m in incremental income, representing an 8.3% absolute increase in rent, with open market reviews yielding uplifts averaging 37.3%.

A further 18.6% of contracted rent was due for review in the remainder of 2025.

The company said it was making progress on the disposal of non-strategic assets from the UK commercial property REIT portfolio, with 50% sold at a 2.9% premium to book value and 95.6m currently under offer.

On the development side, 1.3 million square feet of lettings were in solicitors hands, with an estimated annual rent of 11.9m.

Tritax reaffirmed its guidance of a 7% to 8% yield on cost for 2025 development starts.

The firm also reported strong occupational interest in its 107 MW data centre project at Manor Farm in West London, with non-disclosure agreements signed with major hyperscale and co-location operators.

Planning consent was targeted by the end of 2025, and Tritax said it was advancing a wider 1GW pipeline within the London availability zone.

The company said it would host a seminar for investors on 30 June to outline its growth strategy in logistics and data centres.

We remain well positioned to offer investors superior risk-adjusted returns driven by our focused UK logistics and data centres strategy, said chief executive officer Colin Godfrey.

Our integrated approach across active management, investment and development provides extensive organic growth opportunities, which have the potential to more than double rental income.

This, combined with our efficient cost structure and limited near-term debt maturities, underpins our ability to continue to grow earnings and dividends.

Godfrey said that, despite a period of challenging investment market conditions, the company had successfully sold 634m of assets at or above their book valuations since the September 2022 mini-budget.

This demonstrates the quality of our portfolio and provides confidence in both our asset values and our ability to continue to finance our strategy through capital rotation.

We are pleased with the levels of interest from both hyperscalers and co-locators in our first data centre opportunity at Manor Farm, West London.

With an acute shortage of power in this key availability zone, our ability to provide 107 MW of power delivery in 2027 is unique.

The planning process was progressing as expected, Colin Godfrey noted, with an aim of achieving consent by the end of 2025.

We expect our investment portfolio, which our clients primarily use to serve the UK domestic market, to remain unaffected by US tariff changes.

At 1125 BST, shares in Tritax Big Box were down 0.65% at 143.85p.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.
Victrex said on Wednesday that its Magma mega-programme had taken a significant step forward following the award of a technological contract to TechnipFMC by Petrobras in Brazil.

The FTSE 250 high-performance polymer specialist said the order was expected to support the path towards a multi-year commercial opportunity for its technologies in offshore energy applications.

It said the contract would accelerate the development of TechnipFMCs hybrid flexible pipe (HFP), which integrates Victrex PEEK polymer, composite tape, and pipe extrusion technology.

The HFP aimed to provide a lighter, corrosion-resistant alternative to traditional flexible pipe systems, and was designed to address stress corrosion cracking caused by carbon dioxide exposure in subsea environments.

TechnipFMC's work with Petrobras was seeking to standardise HFP as a definitive solution for these challenges.

Victrex said it had a long-standing exclusive supply relationship with TechnipFMC, having collaborated closely during HFPs qualification phase.

The company was also previously a minority shareholder in Magma Global, which was acquired by TechnipFMC in 2021, to help drive the adoption of PEEK-based composite pipes in the energy sector.

This is a major commercial milestone. It builds on the progress achieved during the qualification phase and is good news for Victrex and our 'Magma' mega-programme, said chief executive officer Jakob Sigurdsson.

This will help to enable and accelerate a high performance, sustainable, durable and Victrex PEEK-based alternative for the industry, as well as the opportunity to bring a new solution for other oil & gas fields.

Hybrid Flexible Pipe demonstrates the wide-ranging benefits of Victrex PEEK materials, with significant know-how involved.

At 1120 BST, shares in Victrex were up 5.79% at 896p.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.
London's FTSE 100 was set to finish lower on Wednesday for the first time in four weeks, with heavyweight names in the pharmaceutical and telecoms sectors providing a drag.

Shares in GSK and AstraZeneca came under pressure after vaccine-sceptic Vinay Prasad was appointed to a key role at the US Food and Drug Administration. GSK was down 4.2% while AstraZeneca fell 1.8%

Prasad, an oncologist who has been vocal in his criticism of the FDAs leadership as well as Covid-19 mandates, will oversee the regulation of costly biologic drugs, including vaccines, gene therapies and blood supply, and is widely expected to tighten up vaccine approvals, likely leading to much longer approval timelines for new drugs.

Vodafone was trading 2% lower after revealing that its finance chief announced his decision to step down to join another company. Luke Mucic was to leave the telecoms operator no later than "early 2026" to join German real estate firm Vonovia. Sector peer BT was also among the worst performers.

In contrast, Entain continued its recent march higher to top the risers list with a gain of 2%. The stock has surged by 40% over the past month, helped by last week's appointment of interim boss Stella David as its permanent CEO and the announcement of a stronger-than-expected first-quarter performance.

Marks & Spencer was attempting to rebound, up 1% after hitting a one-month low the previous session as operations continued to be impacted by last month's cyberattack. While the retailer still has a pause on taking orders via the M&S.com website, apps and over the phone, the shares have tanked more than 12% over the past three weeks.

Defence blue chip BAE Systems fell 2.3% despite reaffirming its full-year 2025 guidance following a steady first quarter as it highlighted strong operational performance and a robust order backlog.

FTSE 100 - Risers

Entain (ENT) 702.40p 2.12%

Prudential (PRU) 830.40p 1.89%

Smurfit Westrock (DI) (SWR) 2,995.00p 1.42%

Imperial Brands (IMB) 3,165.00p 1.41%

Marks & Spencer Group (MKS) 363.80p 1.00%

International Consolidated Airlines Group SA (CDI) (IAG) 284.40p 0.99%

Ashtead Group (AHT) 4,069.00p 0.97%

Hiscox Limited (DI) (HSX) 1,149.00p 0.97%

Lloyds Banking Group (LLOY) 72.30p 0.95%

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) 8,506.00p 0.90%

FTSE 100 - Fallers

GSK (GSK) 1,389.00p -4.21%

Rentokil Initial (RTO) 353.00p -2.35%

SEGRO (SGRO) 672.40p -2.32%

BAE Systems (BA.) 1,730.00p -2.29%

BT Group (BT.A) 165.70p -2.18%

Vodafone Group (VOD) 71.52p -2.00%

Antofagasta (ANTO) 1,686.00p -1.86%

AstraZeneca (AZN) 10,510.00p -1.78%

3i Group (III) 4,225.00p -1.70%

LondonMetric Property (LMP) 193.10p -1.63%
Alpha Group International led the risers after it confirmed that it has received a preliminary and conditional cash takeover bid from US-listed Corpay.

The UK firm's board said it had unanimously rejected the proposal after careful consideration.

The FTSE 250 company said that under UK takeover rules, Corpay had until 1700 BST on 30 May to either announce a firm intention to make an offer under the Takeover Code, or confirm it did not intend to proceed.

Hochschild Mining and Endeavour Mining gained on higher gold prices.

Ferrexpo led the fallers.

Market Movers

FTSE 250 - Risers

Alpha Group International (ALPH) 3,050.00p 8.54%

Hochschild Mining (HOC) 296.00p 8.32%

Endeavour Mining (EDV) 2,214.00p 5.23%

Ashmore Group (ASHM) 151.00p 4.86%

Lion Finance Group (BGEO) 6,325.00p 4.29%

Genus (GNS) 2,090.00p 4.24%

Plus500 Ltd (DI) (PLUS) 3,252.00p 4.23%

QinetiQ Group (QQ.) 416.80p 3.99%

Dr. Martens (DOCS) 56.05p 3.80%

Moonpig Group (MOON) 243.50p 3.62%

FTSE 250 - Fallers

Ferrexpo (FXPO) 64.70p -16.73%

Trainline (TRN) 280.00p -5.28%

Ocado Group (OCDO) 263.50p -3.90%

Wizz Air Holdings (WIZZ) 1,672.00p -3.18%

Investec (INVP) 470.60p -2.69%

Close Brothers Group (CBG) 319.20p -2.31%

Oxford Instruments (OXIG) 1,700.00p -2.19%

Future (FUTR) 715.00p -2.05%

Ninety One (N91) 150.80p -2.01%

RS Group (RS1) 516.50p -1.90%
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) will present a press briefing on Operation Sindoor today at 10:00 AM, where additional information regarding the operation will be unveiled.

India recently carried out its largest military attacks within Pakistan since 1971, hitting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This was done in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack and to neutralize commanders of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) who were involved in planning attacks against India.

The MoD declared, "The Indian Armed Forces have commenced 'OPERATION SINDOOR' aimed at terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where plans for launching attacks against India have been made."

The statement reiterated that the operations were measured, focused, and non-escalatory, with no Pakistani military installations being attacked. The Indian Armed Forces effectively struck nine terror targetsfour in Pakistan, namely Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmirusing precision weapons in a coordinated operation involving the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi oversaw the operation during the night, and all nine targets were said to have been hit successfully.

In a separate incident, three civilians were killed as a result of unprovoked firing by the Pakistan Army, which breached the ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian Army said it is retaliating proportionately to this aggression.
The UK government has responded to criticism by opposition parties that the newly-signed trade agreement with India could put British workers at a disadvantage.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds told the BBC there was "no scenario" where he would "ever accept" British workers being undercut due to a trade agreement.

One aspect of the package offers an exemption from National insurance contributions (Nics) for a year, not three - which means individuals on short-term visas will only be paying social security in their own country when employed overseas.

The opposition parties argue this could result in Indian labour being less expensive to hire than British labour - not least as UK employer Nics have just increased.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said she had turned down a similar deal when she was business secretary, because the deal involves "two-tier taxes" which would cost the UK "hundreds of millions".

Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper accused the exemption of "undercutting British workers at a time when they're already being hammered by Trump's trade war and Labour's jobs tax mistake".

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage labeled the deal as "truly appalling", stating: "This government doesn't care about working people."

However, Reynolds stated the deal would have no effect on British workers, citing the UK had 16 agreements against double taxation of work, which covered over 50 countries - such as the US, EU and South Korea.

"The Conservatives just recently, well a few years back when they were in power, inked one with Chile for five years. So no, British workers are not being undercut," he said.

"What the Conservatives are muddled about, and Reform too, is a scenario where an Indian business seconds someone for a temporary period to the UK, or a UK business seconds an employee to India for a temporary period, where you don't pay in at the same time now to both social security systems," he said to the BBC's Today programme.

Reynolds said the deal was a "huge economic win for the UK and would deliver "faster growth, higher wages, more tax revenue brilliant wins for goods and for services".

He previously stated that Indian workers would continue to have to pay the NHS immigration surcharge and would not be able to receive benefits from the National Insurance system.
India is set to become the worlds third-largest economy by 2025 with a GDP of $4.187 trillion.

Pakistan faces economic collapse with a GDP of $0.37 trillion and heavy reliance on IMF loans.

Moodys reports Indias economy remains stable despite tensions, while Pakistans may worsen.

India is set to become the third-largest economy in the world, fueled by strong growth, booming public investment, and buoyant domestic consumption. India's nominal GDP will increase to $4.187 trillion in 2025, surpassing Japan, as per the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) World Economic Outlook. Pakistan, on the other hand, continues to spiral downward into economic ruin, depending heavily on foreign assistance and IMF loans to remain afloat.

The extreme difference between the two South Asian neighbors highlights the different directions they have pursued ever since they became independent of the British in 1947. India, the world's fastest-growing large economy, now has a GDP of about $3.88 trillion over ten times bigger than Pakistan's, which is a tiny $0.37 trillion. India's foreign exchange reserves have grown to $688 billion, while those of Pakistan have fallen to just over $15 billion, hardly sufficient to finance a few months of imports.

Pakistan's economy has been severely impacted by long-standing political instability, military intervention, and its sustained policy of aiding terrorism. The decades of army takeovers and authoritarian regimes have stunted the economic growth of Pakistan. India, on the other hand, has concentrated on developing infrastructure, reducing poverty, and encouraging innovation, which has greatly improved its economic position at the global level.

Ironically, over the decades since independence, both countries developed at a similar rate. Pakistan initially enjoyed huge US assistance and grants from rich Islamic nations. Nevertheless, the ongoing emphasis on military goals over economic reform has put the country in a state of fiscal chaos. The cost of sheltering terror has also rebounded with Pakistan currently witnessing widespread civil strife, especially in Balochistan and the North West Frontier Province.

In 2023, Pakistan avoided a sovereign default by the skin of its teeth thanks to an IMF bailout of $3 billion. It is in talks with another climate resilience loan of $1.3 billion. Still, international agencies are cautious about the country's capacity to service its debt. Moody's, in a recent analysis, cautioned that Pakistan's access to international funding continues to be weak and can be further undermined by geopolitical tensions, particularly with India.

26 Indian tourists were killed. Pakistan's leadership threatened a robust response to India's targeted operations against terrorist infrastructure. However, Moody's pointed out that even if tensions rise, India's macroeconomic stability is likely to be preserved because of its negligible economic dependence on Pakistan  less than 0.5% of its total exports in 2024. The danger of war between the two countries re-emerged after a terror attack in Pahalgam, where. Pakistan's leadership threatened a robust response to India's targeted operations against terrorist infrastructure. However, Moody's pointed out that even if tensions rise, India's macroeconomic stability is likely to be preserved because of its negligible economic dependence on Pakistan  less than 0.5% of its total exports in 2024.

Though India might experience higher defence expenditure in the face of heightened security risks, Moody's is of the view that this will not seriously derail its fiscal consolidation efforts. The agency observed that India's economic fundamentals are robust, with continued public investment and robust consumer demand serving as stabilising factors.

As the world economic order is reconfigured, India seems firmly set to become one of the world's top three economies. Pakistan, on the other hand, needs to urgently tackle its internal political crisis, fiscal mismanagement, and isolation at the international level to avoid further economic decline.
Pahalgam Attack Designed to Sabotage Peace in Jammu & Kashmir

Brutality Meant to Instill Fear and Send a Message

Operation Sindoor: Indias Precision Strikes Against Terror Infrastructure

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Wednesday explained the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack was an orchestrated effort to prevent the re-emergence of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir and to establish conditions favourable to chronic cross-border terrorism originating from Pakistan.

Speaking at a press briefing with Indian Army Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Indian Air Force Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, Misri spoke of the aims behind Operation Sindoor, where Indian military attacked nine high-value terror sites deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

"Everybody knows that on April 22, 2025, Pakistani and Pakistan-trained terrorists of Lashkar-e-Taiba attacked Indian tourists brutally in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir in India. Twenty-five Indians and one Nepali national were cowardly murdered", he stated.

Comparing it with the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, Misri stated, "Following the November 26, 2008, attacks in Mumbai, this is the most severe incident in terms of the number of civilians killed in a terrorist attack in India".

"The Pahalgam attack was very brutal, where the individuals there were shot in the head at close range and in front of their families. This way of killing intentionally traumatised the family members, and they were also told to return and deliver this message", he said.

The Foreign Secretary emphasized the strategic intention of the killings, when he said, "This attack was clearly aimed at disrupting the normal situation being restored in Jammu and Kashmir because tourism was again becoming the mainstay of the economy. The main purpose of this attack was to adversely affect it".

Emphasizing the financial cost, Misri stated, "Last year, as you all are aware, over 2.25 crore tourists came to Kashmir. The prime motive of this attack was, therefore, likely, to render the Union Territory backward by injuring its development and progress and to facilitate creating a fertile ground for the unabated cross-border terrorism from Pakistan".

India conducted Operation Sindoor, targeting terror infrastructure employed by Pakistan-based groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and its proxy, The Resistance Front. In a direct response to the Pahalgam attack,, targeting terror infrastructure employed by Pakistan-based groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and its proxy, The Resistance Front.

The strikes targeted camps and logistical centers thought to have been employed to plan and carry out the attack.

Misri underscored the character of India's military retaliation, stating that it was 'measured, calibrated and non-escalatory'.

He reaffirmed that the Indian strikes were targeting only the demolition of terror infrastructure, with no collateral damage to civilian or economic targets.

"The Indian military launched precision strikes. The aim was to destroy the roots of terror without triggering escalation", Misri said.
India Launches Precision Strikes in 'Operation Sindoor'

Finance Minister Hails Military Response

Nine Terror Targets Neutralized with No Civilian Harm

In a strong statement, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman praised the Indian Army's successful conduct of 'Operation Sindoor' a precision military operation against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK). The operation was a retaliatory strike against the April 22 Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen.

Speaking to social media site X, FM Sitharaman lauded the Army's strategic and quick reaction, saying, "The 'Operation Sindoor' is a robust reaction by Indian Army striking at terror centers in Pakistan. India will never accept terrorism. Under PM Narendra Modi's leadership, we will make sure each perpetrator of terror is hunted down".

The military strike, carried out with precision, targeted nine vital infrastructure points associated with terror groups based in Pakistan and PoK. They consisted of terror camps and logistics centers rumored to have facilitated cross-border raids on Indian territory.

As per officials, the operation was overseen extremely closely by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and top military commanders. Thorough planning allowed no civilian or Pakistani military target to be damaged, which indicates India's commitment to providing justice without increasing tensions.

"OUR actions have been focused and precise". an Indian Army spokesperson stated. "We have targeted only terrorist camps where plans to attack India have been concocted and executed".

'Operation Sindoor' reiterates India's strong position against terrorism, with the message that the perpetrators will be dealt with timely and decisive action. Calling the mission a strategic and symbolic victory, the Indian Army concluded, 'Justice is served. Jai Hind'. The Army asserted thatreiterates India's strong position against terrorism, with the message that the perpetrators will be dealt with timely and decisive action. Calling the mission a strategic and symbolic victory, the Indian Army concluded, 'Justice is served. Jai Hind'.

This is one of India's most important cross-border operations after the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, reaffirming its unflinching commitment to national security.
In a path-breaking initiative ready to transform bilateral economic ties, India and the United Kingdom have concluded a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) which holds the key to tremendous value for India's 5.4 million IT services professionals. The FTA, described as the 'most ambitious FTA commitment from the UK,', has been agreed with the intent of removing mobility constraints, encouraging the trade in digitally delivered services, and waiving double social security contributions for Indian professionals a much-persisting obstacle for Indian companies in the UK.

This change, hugely considered a turning point in India-UK relations, provides fresh opportunities for Indian IT professionals and service firms. It includes an expansive spectrum of fields such as engineering, computer and related services, and telecommunications. Business players and policymakers regard it as a game-changing move not just promoting economic cooperation but also preparing both countries for more collaboration in future-forward sectors such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and fintech.

FTA will facilitate access by contractual service suppliers, business visitors, investors, intra-corporate transferees, and independent professionals to opportunities in both markets. It also grants work rights to partners and dependent children of intra-corporate transferees, thereby easing family relocation and long-term planning.

In significant relief for Indian professionals who are temporarily working in the UK, the Double Contribution Convention has been included under the agreement. This exception keeps them and their employers exempt from paying social security contributions for a period of three years. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry pointed out that this would translate into savings of around 20 percent of the salary, which would accrue to more than 60,000 employees from the IT industry alone. The overall financial gain to Indian workers and companies is going to be more than Rs 4,000 crore.

Industry association Nasscom welcomed the agreement, describing it as a symbol of the increasing economic linkages between the two nations. "This agreement will drive bilateral trade in services, promote cross-border innovation and create high-quality job opportunities for Indian talent", Nasscom said. The association also thanked the two governments for settling long-standing challenges for the Indian IT industry.

India's IT services industry has a robust presence in the UK, with Europe contributing over 25 percent of its revenues. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) derives around 17 percent of its global revenues from the UK alone, while Infosys, HCLTech, and Wipro together generate close to 30 percent from the wider European region.

As per DD Mishra, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, the FTA is set to bring in revolutionary effects throughout the IT industry. "This increased access is expected to drive significant investments from UK firms into India's booming IT ecosystem, creating a growth and innovation-friendly environment", Mishra said. He further stated that the convergence of regulatory norms between the two nations would lower compliance expenses and facilitate easier business procedures for IT firms.

Rituparna Chakraborty, Co-founder of staffing company TeamLease Services, described the pact as a game-changer, particularly for the tech industry. "The FTA creates new opportunities for Indian IT, fintech, edtech, and professional services companies to scale up in the UK. The three-year social security exemption considerably enhances cost competitiveness," she said.

Chakraborty explained that the accord extends beyond trade facilitation; it promotes 'purposeful talent mobility' and employment generation across both nations. For British enterprises, it means simplified access to India's sizeable and well-educated talent base in fields including technology, finance, education, and design.
In a milestone achievement, India and the United Kingdom have been able to sign a full-scale Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in a transformative move in bilateral economic ties. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman called the agreement a precursor to a new age in trade between the two countries and said that 99 percent of Indian exports now have zero-duty access under the agreement.

Announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer jointly on Tuesday, the FTA will go a long way in increasing trade, innovation, and employment while promoting a deeper strategic partnership. The agreement is likely to benefit a broad spectrum of sectors ranging from goods, services, and technology.

"This agreement will entail greater access for Indian exporters into markets. Industry and innovation will be able to flourish", said FM Sitharaman on the post-X(formerlyTwitter) posting regarding the mention of the country's potential under Modi's rule.

In an address during the 'NEXT Milan Forum' held in Italy's Bocconi University, she outlined that the increasing importance of bilateral arrangements comes during this present epoch compared to how the market existed earlier dominated by multilateral trading arrangements.

The FTA comes at a time when India-UK bilateral trade stands at around $60 billion, with projections to double by 2030. The pact ensures tariff elimination on nearly 99 percent of tariff lines, covering almost the entirety of trade value between the two nations. This move is expected to provide a major boost to Indian exports across various sectors and encourage sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

In a big victory for India's services sector, the UK has made one of its most ambitious pledges under any FTA. The industry segments that are likely to gain include IT and ITeS, financial services, professional and business services, and education services. This should open up fresh employment opportunities and further boost India's global competitiveness.

Indian professionals in the UK will be given a specific provision under the Double Contribution Convention. The provisions of the agreement exclude Indian workers and their employers from UK social security contributions for three years, providing significant financial benefits and enhanced competitiveness to Indian service providers. In addition,will be given a specific provision under the Double Contribution Convention. The provisions of the agreement exclude Indian workers and their employers from UK social security contributions for three years, providing significant financial benefits and enhanced competitiveness to Indian service providers.

The FTA also takes care of non-tariff barriers to ensure a free flow of goods and services, keeping Indian exports from arbitrary restrictions. With this bilateral pact, India and the UK reaffirm their intent to build strong supply chains and push economic growth through mutual collaboration.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Staten Island residents are facing a recurring problem as adolescents vandalize vinyl fences in what appears to be part of the Kool-Aid Man challenge social media trend.

Here are five takeaways from the Advance/SILive.coms reporting on the issue, which details how teens are busting through fences, causing property damage and frustration among homeowners.

Five youngsters were captured on home security camera footage running through the backyard fence of a residence on Ashland Avenue in Prince's Bay on Sunday, April 13, 2025. (Advance/SILive.com | Scott Axelrod)

1. The Kool-Aid Man challenge is causing widespread fence vandalism across Staten Island

Staten Island homeowners are repeatedly waking up to find their vinyl fences destroyed, with slats scattered on the ground causing aggravation and costly repairs. The vandalism is believed to be part of a social media trend called the Kool-Aid Man challenge, inspired by vintage commercials where the soft drinks mascot crashes through walls shouting the catch phrase Oh, yeah! Multiple incidents have been reported, particularly on the boroughs South Shore, where adolescents are running through fences, causing property damage. District Attorney Michael E. McMahon has condemned the behavior as stupid, arrogant and reprehensible, while affected residents express feelings of violation and frustration over the senseless destruction of their property.

2. Law enforcement faces limitations in punishing juvenile offenders

Despite the ongoing vandalism, authorities have limited options for addressing these incidents. According to a law enforcement source with knowledge of the situation, even if the young vandals were arrested, there is little that can be done to punish them under current New York state law. The state treats individuals younger than 18 years old as children in all but the most serious crimes, creating a challenge for law enforcement seeking to curb this destructive behavior.

3. Victims face significant repair costs and emotional distress

The financial and emotional impact on homeowners is substantial. One Huguenot resident, who wished to be identified only as Elayne, spent $100 to replace 20 fence slats plus additional costs for installation after teens damaged her fence around 2 a.m. on April 5. Another homeowner, Ben Helwa of Eltingville, expressed frustration over expensive repair estimates and the need to redo his backyard before a planned summer event. Beyond the monetary costs, residents like Vera Naccarato of Princes Bay describe feeling violated and angry and disappointed that their homes have been targeted. The vandalism has disrupted residents sense of security and created unexpected financial burdens, with some attempting temporary repairs while arranging for permanent solutions.

4. Security cameras are capturing the vandals in action

Several incidents have been documented by home security cameras, providing evidence of the vandalism pattern. On April 5 around 1:25 a.m., four kids were captured recording themselves as they sprinted through a fence in Eltingville before fleeing. On April 14 at approximately 4:30 a.m., security footage showed five individuals attempting to break through Naccaratos fence, with one successfully propelling himself through while others pushed remaining slats into the yard. These recordings show the deliberate nature of the vandalism, with perpetrators often working in groups and sometimes even documenting their own destructive actions, suggesting the social media aspect is a significant motivator.

The fence of a home in Eltingville was damaged during an incident believed to be related to the Kool-Aid Man challenge on Saturday, April 26, 2025. (Advance/SILive.com | Scott Axelrod)

5. Parents involvement and awareness are becoming central to the issue

The role of parents has emerged as a critical factor in both the problem and potential solutions. Assemblymember and former NYPD officer Michael Reilly, a South Shore Republican, confronted teens he believed had vandalized a fence and warned their parent about the risks of injury and potential violent confrontations with homeowners. In another incident of vandalism unrelated to the fence trend, Charleston resident Bunny Resnick pursued accountability by contacting parents of teens who damaged her property. Multiple victims expressed that parents should take more responsibility, with Elayne stating, There are some members of the community who really need to see what their kids are doing.

Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story based on previous reporting by Advance/SILive.coms Scott Axelrod. It was reviewed and edited by Advance/SILive.com staff.
Staten Island Railway trains are seen in the yard of the maintenance shop at the Clifton station in November 2024. (Advance/SILive.com | Mike Matteo)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  A group of individuals brazenly burglarized and stole from Staten Island Railway facilities, in some cases posting videos of their exploits on social media, authorities allege.

The heists occurred over a span of about 24 hours in February at the MTA train stations in Clifton and St. George and the suspects left an electronic trail for authorities on area surveillance cameras and social media, according to law-enforcement officials.
A 55-year-old man told police that he was the victim of an antisemitic assault and gun incident on Montgomery Avenue between Victory Boulevard and Fort Place in Tompkinsville. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  The NYPDs Hate Crimes Task Force is investigating an antisemitic attack on Staten Island where a man was assaulted and menaced with a gun on the street in Tompkinsville, police said.

Three individuals are sought in the violent encounter that occurred on April 25 at about 9:10 p.m. on Montgomery Avenue between Victory Boulevard and Fort Place, according to a spokesperson for the NYPDs Deputy Commissioner of Public Information.

The incident was reported to police on April 29, police said.

A 55-year-old man told police that he was walking home when three males approached and said, hey, Jew, according to the police spokesperson.

Two of the individuals punched the victim in the head multiple times, police said.

The victim saw a firearm in the waistband of a third individual who lifted his shirt, according to the police spokesman.

The suspects fled in an unknown direction.

The victim suffered a laceration in his elbow, a bruise on his right eye and swelling on his head, according to police.

Prior incidents of alleged antisemitism

The attack was not the first antisemitic incident on Staten Island in recent months.

Police arrested a 17-year-old boy on Nov. 15 who allegedly knocked a religious cap off the head of a man in Willowbrook.

That incident began when a 37-year-old man was walking in the intersection of Harold Street and Forest Hill Road at about 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 10.

An individual on a moped approached the male and knocked off his head covering, police said.

The 17-year-old boy was charged by police with a misdemeanor, aggravated harassment in the second degree based on race or religion.

In another case, the NYPD repeatedly asked for the publics help to locate an individual who is sought in connection with an incident of antisemitic graffiti last summer in St. George.

That incident occurred on Aug. 23 at about 8:15 a.m. when an unidentified man drew a swastika on a building located at 15B Richmond Terrace, police said.

Empire Outlets is located at the address supplied by police.

As of Wednesday, there were no arrests in that case, according to police.

Drop in hate crimes on Staten Island

Reports of hate crimes on Staten Island have dropped 50% this year, with four incidents tallied as of May 4 compared to eight incidents through that time last year, according to CompStat, the NYPDs computerized system for tracking crimes in New York City.

Two of those incidents occurred in the 120th Precinct, which encompasses the North Shore. The other two hate crimes happened in the 122nd Precinct, which serves the East and South shores.

So far this year, no hate crimes have been cited in the 121st Precinct that covers the North and West Shores, or the South Shores 123rd Precinct.
At The Flower Lab in Richmond Valley, Polina Plotnikova, left, and Olga Tarnovskyaya make Belgian chocolate bonbons and other unique confections to pair with their gourmet coffee concept. The chocolates can also be wrapped up with flowers making the floral shop and cafe a two-in-one business. (Advance/SILive.com | Pamela Silvestri) (Advance/SILive.com | Pamela Silvestri)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  While sipping a creamy cappuccino and gazing at the colorful flowers dotting her store, The Flower Lab, Olga Tarnovskyaya smiles. She explains the euphoria of being a business owner.

>> Related story: Staten Island coffee culture: Celebrity chefs, new cafes and unique concepts with flowers, bees and more >>

Tarnovskyayas passion lies in the details, seamlessly fusing floral arrangements with gourmet food and drink.

Her business partner, Polina Plotnikova, arranges a variety of flowers into boxes, gift bags, or vases. Tulips imported from Holland might open up like peonies next to fragrant roses. A hat box could reveal hand-made bonbons and candies, making each presentation a true event between the scent of Belgian chocolate and flowers.

A special "Japan" blend from Brooklyn Roasting Company and top-of-the-line machinery make a perfect and extraordinary cup of coffee and cappuccino. (Advance/SILive.com | Pamela Silvestri) (Advance/SILive.com | Pamela Silvestri)

A mom of three, Tarnovskyaya says, I worked out of my garage making balloon arrangements and built the business out of my basement. She attended barista school in New Jersey and took professional flower arranging courses around New York City. She found enormous inspiration from Coffee Fest at the Jacob Javitz Center and connected with fellow coffee aficionados  and she loved the community.

Tarnovskyaya enjoys serving visitors from around the borough who enjoy a well-crafted cup of coffee and espresso-fueled creations. She also has guests from New Jersey who regularly come for the flowers and chocolates sold in the store. (Advance/SILive.com | Pamela Silvestri) (Advance/SILive.com | Pamela Silvestri)

Eventually with older children and a business that outgrew the space, Tarnovskyaya found an empty storefront near home and tracked down its landlord. She took the keys to 95 Page Ave. in April. After major renovations, The Flower Lab finally opened its doors in September, offering a unique blend of floral arrangements and gourmet coffee.

With a sparkle in her eyes, she enthuses about how the business came together so organically and happily.

The Flower Lab features its own branding which nods to the floral notes in beans and the "Japan" element of the shop. The so-named blend hails from their Brooklyn coffee roaster who shares the signature roast with an exclusive coffee boutique located in and around Tokyo. (Advance/SILive.com | Pamela Silvestri) (Advance/SILive.com | Pamela Silvestri)

A fellow designer schoolmate from Russia helped her with the store layout. After extensive test-drives and tastings, Tarnovskyaya sourced top-of-the-line equipment, including a La Marzocco machine, crafted by a century-old Italian company known for its workmanship. She purchased a Mahlkonig brand grinder, considered the Cadillac of grinders by exacting javaphiles. She ultimately chose Brooklyn Roasting Company.

Reflecting on her journey, Tarnovskyaya semi-jokes, I visited so many roasters that instead of blood in my veins, I had coffee.

From them came the creation of a proprietary Japan blend  yielding a nutty, fruity and smooth expression on the palate  with each bean just the right size for pure roasted perfection.

The Flower Labs hot and cold espresso drinks that result from all of this can be made as flat whites with little foam to quite the opposite with Rafs, a name for uber-foamy coffees infused with rose, berry or vanilla flavors. The name Raf, by the way, is short for Rafael, a line of coffees created by Russian baristas and now available in the U.S. at the ambitious Flower Lab.

The Flower Lab can be found at 95 Page Ave., Richmond Valley and can be reached at 732-707-7990. The cafe and store are open from Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It offers a few seats at a counter inside and a table outdoors for those who take the coffee to stay.

Pamela Silvestri is Advance/Silive.com Food Editor. She can be reached at silvestri@siadvance.com.
In this photo, Richmond County District Attorney Michael McMahon and state Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton host a shredding event at Blessed Sacrament R.C. Church, West Brighton, in September 2024. A similar event will be held on Sunday, May 18, 2025. (Courtesy of Richmond County District Attorney's Office)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Richmond County District Attorney Michael E. McMahon and state Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton will host a safe document shredding event on Sunday, May 18, as part of an effort to help residents protect their identity and personal finances.

The free event will be held at Temple Israel Reform Congregation, located at 315 Forest Ave., Randall Manor, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. It is open to the public.

Attendees are advised to bring any documents containing sensitive or personal information they would like to dispose of safely.

While we continue to see scammers targeting the hard-earned savings of our fellow Staten Island residents, protecting your personal information has never been more important, McMahon said.

For more information or questions, contact Community Liaison Sophie Selwood at 718-697-8387 or at Sophie.Selwood@rcda.nyc.gov.
Former Rev. Frank Pavone stands by the cross at the Priests for Life office on Ebbitts Street in New Dorp in 2003. (Advance/SILive.com | Rob Sollett)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Frank Pavone, whose national pro-life organization Priests for Life was based on Staten Island for decades, is hoping that the next pope will welcome him back to priestly ministry, according to a media report.

The New York Post is reporting that Pavone, who retains his post as national director of the pro-life organization that he founded, believes he has a chance to be reinstated to the priesthood by the new successor to St. Peter.

Pavone, the Post said, attributes his defrocking under former Pope Francis to the cancel culture mentality.

Im going to go to that new pope and ask him to review my case and reinstate me, Pavone was quoted by the Post as saying.

If Pavone succeeds, it would be a long shot. The Vatican formally removed him from his clerical state in November 2022 after he allegedly defied orders from his bishop to stop his partisan activism for Donald Trump, according to the Associated Press.

A letter to U.S. bishops from the Vatican ambassador to the U.S., Archbishop Christophe Pierre, said that Pavone was found guilty in canonical proceedings of blasphemous communications on social media, and of persistent disobedience of the lawful instructions of his diocesan bishop.

The letter said that there was no possibility of appeal for his defrocking.

Since Priests for Life, Inc. is not a Catholic organization, Mr. Pavones continuing role in it as a lay person would be entirely up to the leadership of that organization, the letter said.

Pavone moved his ministry to Titusville, Florida, in 2017 after living on Staten Island for nearly 30 years.

Although the letter didnt mention any specific posts on social media, Pavone posted a controversial video of an aborted fetus on an altar in a bid to garner votes in 2016 when Trump was running for president. The video led to an investigation by his superiors at the Roman Catholic Diocese of Amarillo, Texas.

In the video, Pavone stood behind an altar topped with a graphically displayed, naked fetus at his then headquarters in New Dorp.
An aerial view shows the One World Trade Center building in Manhattan, New York, on Sept. 11, 2024. (AP Photo/Stefan Jeremiah) (AP Photo/Stefan Jeremiah)

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that 15 state landmarks will be lit dark blue Wednesday in honor of the public servants who strive to make New York great.

From May 4 to May 10, the Empire State celebrates Public Service Recognition Week, which is a nationwide celebration of the contributions of public service employees at the local, state and federal levels, a written statement explained.

Public service employees are the backbone of our state  their dedication and commitment to providing New Yorkers with essential services every day does not go unnoticed, Hochul said in the statement. New York state employees are essential to bolstering our states success, and I remain committed to expanding our hardworking public workforce through our Youre Hired initiative. We know youre essential and New York wants you in every part of the public service sector.

Since its implementation, the Youre Hired campaign has hired 50 former federal employees and got 5,689 applications for jobs in New Yorks public service division, the statement detailed.

The campaign began in February at the directive of the governor to offer displaced federal public sector workers a new opportunity in New York.

Among the landmarks that will be shining dark blue Wednesday, many are in the New York City area  meaning you can catch a glimpse on your way home.

According to the statement, here are the landmarks to see dark blue:
Prosecutors posted this photo in a press release announcing the arrest of former WWE wrestler Michael Droese. Facebook

A former WWE star stands accused of attempting to purchase child pornography.

Michael Droese, who in the wrestling world was known as Duke The Dumpster Droese, was charged in Warren County, Tennessee, with attempted aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor, according to a press release by District Attorney Chris Stanford.

Droese, 56, attempted to purchase the material on April 21, 2024, using cryptocurrency, authorities allege. He turned himself in earlier this month and posted $10,000 bail.

From 1994 to 1996, Droese performed in WWE as a garbage collector who was featured in story lines alongside a young Triple H and Jerry The King Lawler.

After wrestling, he worked as an elementary school teacher in Tennessee, but was forced to resign after a 2013 drug arrest, the New York Daily News reported.
Jozette Carter-Williams (at podium), pictured with her daughter Selena and son Louis, announces her candidacy for the North Shore City Council seat Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024. (Staten Island Advance/Paul Liotta)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Jozette Carter-Williams withdrew her candidacy for the North Shore City Council seat Wednesday amid an ongoing legal battle over petition signatures, but said she intends to fight on.

Representatives for Councilmember Kamillah Hanks, the incumbent Democrat, brought petition challenges against Carter-Williams candidacy last month. John Ciampoli, the attorney representing Carter-Williams, said fraud allegations brought Wednesday led to the candidate withdrawing her candidacy in the Democratic primary.
President Donald Trump is a deeply superstitious man.

The president is so attuned to omens that he delayed a landmark policy move so that it wouldnt fall on a particular day, the New York Post reported.

Trump postponed his Liberation Day reciprocal tariffs until April 2 of this year because he didnt want the major policy move announced on April 1, which is April Fools Day.

I would have done them on April 1, Trump told reporters. Believe it or not, Im a little superstitious.

During his speech to Congress, Trump said, I didnt want to be accused of April Fools Day.

In other superstitions, Trump can be seen touching the outside of the plane just before boarding Air Force One or other aircraft.

Trump has also been known to toss spilled salt over his shoulder, as a video showed when he guested as a worker at a McDonalds drive-through during the 2024 campaign.

Trump also avoids people he considers bad luck and also made it a habit to call into to Fox News every Monday because it was a winning routine.

The Post also reported that because of Trumps superstitions, neither a victory nor a concession speech is written on election nights until the outcome is known.

In another election superstition, Trump has ended all three of his presidential campaigns with rallies in Grand Rapids, Mich., the spot where he ended his victorious 2016 campaign.

And even though Trump did the same thing in 2020 and lost to Democrat Joe Biden, Trump returned to Grand Rapids to close out his winning 2024 White House bid.

We can be a little bit superstitious, right? Trump told the Grand Rapids crowd in 2020.

Vice President JD Vance said that he and Trump are so superstitious that they didnt even discuss what role the veep would play in a second Trump administration until after Trump had secured victory in 2024.
Support the Peninsulas only locally-owned newspaper. Subscribe!

Subscribing annually brings you big savings. We also offer monthly and weekly subscriptions.

Premium Subscription

As low as $8.25 per week

Premium Includes:

-- Access to the Daily Journals e-Edition: a digital replica of our daily newspaper including crossword puzzles, games, comics, classifieds and ads. You can download a digital replica of the Daily Journal for offline reading. You can also clip & download articles or images from the e-edition to share with others The most recent 90 issues are available at any given time.

-- Unlimited access to our award-winning online content

-- Commenting access on all stories as a valued member of the DJ community

-- NEW! Access to our online-only digital crossword puzzle. A new puzzle every day, seven days a week!
One of the ABCs most prominent broadcasters, Laura Tingle, will leave her position as political editor of flagship current affairs program 7.30 for a new global reporting role.

Tingle has been appointed the ABCs global affairs editor, a position until recently occupied by John Lyons, who became Americas editor, based in Washington.

Laura Tingle will move on from 7.30 after seven years to become the ABCs global affairs editor. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

Tingle has held the political editor position since 2018, and was elected the ABC staff representative on its board in 2023. Her position as a board director will remain unchanged.

The global affairs editor leads the ABCs international coverage, with reporting and analysis of major world events. The role was created in 2022 for Lyons.
Hes played by French-Algerian actor Tahar Rahim (The Mauritanian), who spent six months learning to replicate Aznavours singing voice, and he grows into the role just as Aznavour grows into his career. His transformation begins when Piaf, whos taken a liking to him, suggests that he get a nose job. Even so, she remains unsure about his prospects as a stage performer, eventually deciding that his talents lie in writing songs rather than singing them.

The French weighed in with La Vie en Rose (2019) with Marion Cotillard pouring herself into Edith Piafs tiny frame. Now we have Monsieur Aznavour, which tackles the life of Piafs friend and protege, Charles Aznavour. These days, most biopics take a discrete approach, concentrating on the highlights and, more frequently, the lowlights of a long, and preferably, turbulent career, but this one makes a valiant effort to cram it all in. We begin in Aznavours Paris childhood as the cosseted son of a close, music-loving family of Armenian refugees and end with him in his 90s, still holding the crowds in his thrall.

Musical biopics have been enjoying a sporadic romance with the box office for a long time. It climaxed for the first time in 2005 with Walk the Line , the Johnny Cash story, and rose to an all-time high with Rami Maleks turn as Freddie Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody (2018).

Cast as Piaf is Marie-Julie Baup, whose performance is wholly convincing while presenting a fascinating contrast with Cotillards. Cotillard depicted the pathos in being Piaf. Baup is all about her dictatorial manner, her raucous sense of fun, and her pleasure in making mischief.

In the end, shes too much for Aznavour, who strikes out on his own with his best friend and fellow musician Pierre Roche (Bastien Bouillon). The two cycle all over France, travelling from one gig to another and having a fine time with the women they meet. By now, Aznavour is married with a daughter but his faithlessness is the first of his betrayals on his way to the top. He finally abandons Roche, as well, because his agent persuades him that hell do better going solo. Its a candid reading of his character, all the more impressive because the filmmakers discussed the script with Aznavour before he died.

Loading

The film is co-directed by Mehdi Idir and Fabien Marsaud, a slam poet and songwriter who took the stage name, Grand Corps Malade (Tall, Sick Body) after a spinal injury left him having to walk with a stick. As a performer, he had the opportunity to sing with Aznavour, finding him happy to mentor young talent, an aspect of his personality which briefly shows up in the film as part of its attempt to cover everything. As a nod towards his experiences as a film star, we also get a quick glimpse of him on the set of Francois Truffauts Shoot the Pianist. And at one point, a totally unbelievable Frank Sinatra passes through the action.

Its all a bit choppy but all up, it looks and sounds great  a richly realised portrait of a man triumphantly in tune with his time.
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 When Bishop Mykola Bychok was elevated to the dignity of cardinal by Pope Francis in December, the eyebrows of Australias plugged-in Catholics shot up in surprise. A 40-something Ukrainian bishop whod only been in the country for three years had become the most senior Catholic official in Australia, and the youngest cardinal in the world. Before Bychoks elevation, only the Archbishop of Sydney  and once, many years ago, of Melbourne  had been given a red hat. Sydneys conservative Archbishop Anthony Fisher was the heir apparent. But Bychok took Australias cardinal quota, despite being a newcomer to the country who could one day return to Ukraine. The appointment even took his countrymen by surprise, given there are far more experienced bishops in Ukraine (some of whom had expressed disappointment in Francis after he exhorted young Russians to remember their countrys great history). Bychok found out only when he turned on his phone after dinner, and it lit up congratulatory messages. Sydneys Archbishop Anthony Fisher. Credit: James Brickwood. Many in the church read Bychoks appointment as a rebuff to Fisher. It is a massive snub, said one person closely involved in church politics, on the condition of anonymity to speak freely. New Zealand has one. Tongas got one. Fijis got one. It was always assumed if youre Archbishop of Sydney, youll get the cardinals hat. Its partly a snub, and partly Francis saying, Were going to have all these unorthodox [cardinals], and people from the margins.  Another, referring to local bishops, said: They have been shafted. Francis was appointing in the margins. But he was making a point that didnt go down well with some of the Australian bishops. One person with close ties to the church said, its an expectation of the faithful that there should be an Australian cardinal.

Advertisement

The upshot of the decision is that for the first time in almost 70 years, Australia will not have an establishment voice in the election of the next pope. Bychok will represent Australias Catholics in good faith, but theres a view that he doesnt go to Rome with a strong understanding of the needs of the local church. Had there been an Australian cardinal, they would be able to carry with them into the conclave a real sense of Australian Catholic identity, one source close to the Catholic hierarchy said, on the condition of anonymity so they could speak freely. Hell bring a particular discernment about Ukrainian issues, whereas what has been the role of the Australian Church, and what are its needs  he wont have that background, where former Australians in the conclave certainly did. Smoke rising from the temporary chimney erected on the roof of the Sistine Chapel will signal to the world that the conclave has chosen a new pope. Credit: AP The pope may seem a distant figure, but his decisions will have a significant impact on the Australian church and its schools. His greatest influence will come through his power to appoint church leaders; he approves the appointment of bishops and chooses the heads of the Vatican departments, known as dicasteries. Given the Vaticans lack of transparency, the influence of these dicasteries is hidden from most Australians  even Catholics  but it can be significant, especially when it comes to education. Australian Catholic schools and universities are the pride of the global church. No other country gives them such generous public funding. Rome would like to have this replicated elsewhere, and therefore oversees it carefully, interceding where necessary.

Advertisement

Last year, a pro-life graduation speech at the Australian Catholic University sparked not only a walkout, but also a letter from Fisher to Romes education dicastery, saying he and his Melbourne counterpart would welcome a Vatican investigation into the affairs at ACU due to their shaken confidence in the leadership. Critics of ACU say the vice chancellor was summoned to Rome in November; university management said it was a routine meeting. Loading In 2021, disgruntled parishioners in the Parramatta Diocese complained to the Vatican about their bishop, Vincent Long  a refugee from Vietnam and a victim of clerical abuse himself (as an adult)  who was appointed to Parramatta by Pope Francis in 2016. Parramatta Diocese is home to strong and diverse views about the church. There are hardline conservative Maronites, immigrant Catholics from south-east and south Asia and traditionalists who demand their mass in Latin, as well as progressive parishioners who urge the embrace of female, LGBTQ and divorced Catholics. At the best of times, theres hot disagreement. In 2021, a group of Parramatta Catholics petitioned the Vaticans Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith to remove Long after Parramattas education office opposed a bill, put forward by then One Nation MP Mark Latham, to prohibit the promotion of gender fluidity in schools. Parramatta said the change would subject LGBTQ students to harassment, and be an unacceptable incursion into the schools professional judgment. Credit: Matt Golding The complainants were also concerned about Parramattas new religious education school curriculum, unveiled in mid-2020, which would teach students about different sexual identities, atheism and social media relationships.

Advertisement

The conservative-leaning Catholic Weekly quoted a parent as saying, parents sending their children to a Catholic school send them because they want them to be catechised [instructed in the principles of religion], and I think those producing the curriculum lost sight a bit of that. Multiple sources said the Vatican did get involved, and discussed the issues with Long. The religious education curriculum was put on hold pending more work in mid-2021, and was eventually unveiled in August for implementation this year. It now has the imprimatur of the Vaticans powerful Dicastery for Evangelisation. The pope is also responsible for appointing bishops, after a three-step process involving local consultation, recommendations from the Australian papal nuncio  a kind of ambassador  and further investigation by the Dicastery for Bishops. There will be no one from the Australian homegrown hierarchy involved in the selection of Pope Franciss successor. Credit: AP Three Australian bishops have handed in their resignation, as is required when they turn 75, and await news of their replacements. They include Brisbanes Archbishop Mark Coleridge, who is the chief supporter of ACUs management and in direct opposition to Fisher on the issue. His replacement with someone more sympathetic to Fishers view could have major implications for the direction of the national Catholic university. Many in the local church are hoping that the new pope will return to the traditions of Francis predecessors, and give a cardinals hat to an Australian archbishop. Australia has had seven previous cardinals, including the archbishop of Sydney George Pell and archbishop of Melbourne James Knox. The new popes approach will be revealed slowly, says Jack de Groot, the chief executive of the Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese, a body that replaced the old Parramatta education office in 2023. One of his first acts may be to review the heads of the dicasteries, in the same way a new government might replace departmental secretaries. He may just stick with the team Francis had, or he may change them, he says. The changes at the head of each department will be important.

Advertisement
And in breaking news, Premier Roger Cook has confirmed the NRL is coming to Perth, with the state government inking a $65 million deal with the Rugby League Commission.

The long-awaited deal will involve $60 million in direct financial support and another $5.6 million in marketing and match day support via the states tourism body, but the government claims the return on investment is tipped to be greater.

It is understood the league has agreed not to charge the state a license fee.

In a post shared to social media on Wednesday afternoon, Cook said the agreement was great news for the states economy and for local jobs.

Because of our strong negotiating position, the new WA-based NRL side will be chaired by a Western Australian and controlled by members, rather than a private company, he said.

From the beginning, weve said any deal would have to represent value for WA taxpayers and that is what we have delivered, with Acil Allen modelling indicating a significant return on investment to our economy.

A new WA NRL club will deliver jobs and new economic activity, including a boost in tourism and visitation as the WA brand is exposed to millions across Australia and overseas.

The new team is expected to compete in the national league for the first time in 2027 or 2028.
We had some really significant challenges in the early part of this year around money, where the entire campaign has been financed on my credit card because a lot of people made a lot of big promises around money and didnt do it, he said. I gave up two years basically of employment to do this, and so when youre racking up costs on your credit card at the rate that we were, it terrified me. I couldnt sleep. Wilson has left the door open to a shadow cabinet role leading the oppositions arguments against Labor on tax, invoking his high-profile and contentious campaign against Bill Shortens franking credits policy when he was last in parliament. Liberal MPs were frustrated that Peter Duttons opposition did not weaponise Labors proposed tax on unrealised capital gains. An emotional Wilson thanked supporters after claiming victory in Goldstein. Credit: Paul Jeffers Asked if he wanted that role, Wilson said: Well, well see on all of those things. Last time I was there, I fought on the front lines about the pathway the country should take, and I obviously have a keen interest in economics. And none of those things are going to change.

Wilson said his defeat in 2022 had been a deeply humiliating experience to go through. Loading I went through a psychologist to manage with the reality of dealing with that, he said. No one quite knows what you got. But its common with footballers and ex-servicemen and women, where your identity and your profession is very closely intertwined. I didnt have an identity crisis. I knew who I was because I knew who I was before. I knew who I was after. But it doesnt change the fact that you know youre living out something very public. And you know, and some people really, unfortunately, you know, so many people are incredibly generous in such a circumstance like that, but some people really make no bones about the fact that theyre enjoying every single bit of it. Wilsons campaign to win back Goldstein began two years ago, and he had to start by acknowledging what his campaign had got wrong in 2022.

Wilson looked at the psychology behind why people had voted for Daniel and says he had to openly acknowledge that they made the right decision. Its very important to acknowledge all of those things because then it gave a permission pathway for us to come back, he said. Wilson then asked himself whether he could win and looked at what he describes as the institutional barriers against me, including dealing with party processes. He said the way the Liberal Party approached election campaigns assumed certain things, and the teals defied a lot of those assumptions, so they had to campaign differently, setting it up as a personal contest between Daniel and Wilson. In March 2023, he mapped out his strategy to the Liberal Party membership in an hour-long presentation.

I asked their permission to do certain things because I was basically saying, Im going to overturn the entire way the party approaches elections to have a chance, he said. Wilsons strategy was approved unanimously. Two months later, in May 2023, Wilson hosted a dinner for major donors at the Elwood Bathers restaurant overlooking the bay. I got all of our former donors, many of whom donated healthy, but not substantial sums of money, he said. I said to them, I am prepared to give two years of my life to execute a strategy that I think will win. They all walked in thinking it was a thank-you dinner, and they all walked out with much lighter pockets  That just gave us the cash balance and confidence to go through from that. The next step was to do research, including focus groups and polls asking whether gender was going to be a problem, was Wilson a problem and what the community thought of both Daniel and Wilson.

The view was very strongly that she made a lot of big promises, he said. She hadnt delivered on many of them, and people were increasingly going, Actually, were not sure weve got much for this. Loading Wilson said one catalysing moment of the campaign had been Anzac Day in 2023, when he clashed with one of Daniels representatives after he jointly laid a wreath that the representative was laying on Daniels behalf. Your newspaper kicked the bejesus out of me for daring to do something as outrageous as turn up to an Anzac service just because I genuinely wanted to attend, he said. Wilson said he had hosted dozens of house meetings and, community town halls in cafes, and slowly gained supporters to build an army of people.

The first round of those meetings, half the people who turned up, turned up because they want to yell at me and tell me why I was an f---wit for losing, he says. But once we got past that, we said, Yeah, but Im the only one whos staying and fighting. Wilsons strategy was to get going early and to focus on the local contest. We always based our campaign strategy on two things. One, that we had to be ahead of the start of the campaign because all the national campaign was going to do was drag us back, he said. I hoped that wouldnt be the case, but unfortunately, it was validated. Two, unfortunately the same, with the leader [Peter Dutton] we have to assume that, unfortunately, the leader is likely to be less helpful than more helpful. Wilson said Daniels campaign had suffered from hubris and assumed that I was just going to be flogged again. Wilson said that in 2016, he had been elected as the Liberal candidate but this time, he was the communitys candidate. A key to regaining power was countering the powerful perception that he was out of touch or elitist.
The judicial order amounted to 48 hours of freedom for Sering Ceesay.

That was far less time than asked for by Ceesay, who has lived in the Bronx since illegally entering the U.S. in 1994.

But in finding that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement violated Ceesays due process rights, U.S. District Judge Lawrence Vilardo became the most recent federal judge to weigh in with concerns over the agencys treatment toward those targeted for deportation.

The case before Vilardo centered on what happened on Feb. 19, when the 63-year-old native of the West African country of Gambia was taken into custody and sent two days later to the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility in Batavia.

Ceesay checked in at the ICE offices in Manhattan that morning, like he has done regularly for 14 years, expecting to return as usual to the same Bronx apartment where he has lived for more than three decades. Instead, ICE officers detained him.

So I come to report, they take me in, Ceesay said during a recent court hearing in Buffalo, recalling how an officer asked him if he brought his passport.

One guy started yelling at me, telling me, you want to go handcuffed like this? Ceesay recalled. He dont even wait for me to explain why I dont get a passport.

Cessay doesnt have a passport. He used another persons passport to enter the country and then returned it.

Vilardo found that ICE violated his rights because the official who revoked his supervised release did not have the authority to do so under ICE regulations. The agency also failed to conduct an initial informal interview to give Ceesay a chance to respond to the reasons for the revocation, the judge said. And ICE also failed to provide him the opportunity for an orderly departure, promised to him by the agency when it put him on supervised release in 2011, Vilardo said.

How can anyone feel safe from being swept up and put in jail or deported simply based on being targeted by the government? Vilardo asked in his ruling last Friday. More to the point: How can we pride ourselves on being a nation of laws if we are not willing to extend that most fundamental right to all  if we are not at least willing to ask, before we lock you up, do you have anything to say?

The answer is simple: due process, Vilardo wrote. Everyone  citizen and noncitizen, the innocent and the guilty  is entitled to that sacred right. Ceesay did not get that here.

In September 1997, the government ordered Ceesay to voluntarily deport within two months. When he did not do so, the order converted to a deportation order. In 2010, Immigration and Customs Enforcement detained him for three months but then released him on an order of supervision, which required him to make regular, in-person visits to the agencys Manhattan office. The agencys written notice informed Ceesay that once it secured travel documents, he would be required to surrender for removal but that he would be given time to prepare for an orderly departure.

Lawyers for the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights nonprofit organization who appeared before Vilardo on Ceesays behalf did not challenge the lawfulness of his removal order. But they argued his detention was unlawful because of how  and how quickly  the government revoked his order of supervision.

While Vilardo found that Ceesay was entitled to be released, how much time out of custody he was entitled to was a trickier issue, with sparse case law to base a decision.

Ceesays lawyers asked for 30 days.

Vilardos order on Friday gave ICE 24 hours to release him from the Batavia facility. Then he instructed lawyers from both sides to reconvene Monday for an update from the government confirming it complied with his order.

The government complied, releasing Ceesay Saturday afternoon and telling him to report back on Monday morning.

For Ceesay, that meant at least 48 hours out of custody. On Saturday, Vilardo extended his release to noon Tuesday.

Ceesay returned home to his Bronx apartment at 5 a.m. Sunday.

Opportunity to say goodbye

On Monday, Ceesays lawyers asked Vilardo to give him at least 30 days out of custody before his deportation.

Given Ceesays coronary artery disease and past heart attacks, preparing for an orderly departure simply cannot occur within 48 hours, said Sarah Gillman of Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights. Ceesay would need to make multiple appointments with medical specialists for his complex medical needs before being deported, she said.

Dr. Joseph Shin, a faculty member of Weill Cornell Medical College in New York, said in a letter to the court that even if ICE supplies Ceesay with his regiment of medications upon his deportation, once his medication supply runs out, it will be like a ticking time bomb until his next stroke, heart attack or other adverse cardiovascular complication.

Ceesay was in full and complete compliance with his order of supervision for a period of over 14 years, said Sarah Decker, another of his lawyers from the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights organization.

He did not deserve to be whisked away unexpectedly, was no threat to flee and should have been afforded more time to prepare for being deported, his lawyers said.

Vilardo denied the request for more time, clarifying what he meant by orderly departure.

What it means is an opportunity to grab some photos, and to say goodbye and to pack some clothes and to get medicine, and to do those kinds of things which certainly could take place within 48 hours, Vilardo said Monday.

Youre asking me to delay his deportation, something that I dont think I have the authority to do, the judge said. While Im not exactly happy with ICEs position here, I hesitate to do anything more than Ive done already, because I think Ive gone about as far as I can go, he said.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Khalil said Ceesay had time to prepare for his deportation, including the time he has spent detained in Batavia. Ceesay had chances to do video chats and see visitors during his detention, Khalil told Vilardo at an April court proceeding.

On Monday, Khalil dismissed the notion that Ceesays medical needs should weigh in favor against deportation.

Ceesays lawyers argue he should not be deported to Gambia because medical care there is not as good as it is in America, Khalil told Vilardo.

Under that reasoning, it would prevent removal of anybody except to a highly industrialized country, Khalil said. It would tie the hands of immigration officials.

In an April court proceeding, Ceesay said he would die if deported.

My life will end, because I know in Gambia we dont have those doctors, he said. We dont have the medication.

If you dont follow an unlawful process to enter the country, youre never in this situation, Khalil said at the April hearing.

The flight to Gambia should not pose a health risk, Khalil added.

Hes going commercial, Khalil said. He is not being deported via an ICE charter flight. He wont be in cuffs. Hes getting on an airplane at an airport, and hes flying like any other passenger would.

Ceesays lawyers told Vilardo they believed Ceesay would be deported to Gambia once he reported to ICE on Tuesday. That did not happen.

Manhattan U.S. District Judge Jed S. Rakoff issued an order Monday restraining the government from detaining Ceesay and removing him from the United States on Tuesday or Wednesday. Rakoff extended his order on Wednesday, restraining the government from further action at least through Tuesday of next week, when he has scheduled a court hearing on the matter.
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 Siddiq Wahid remembers waking up in his home on the morning of August 5, 2019 and knowing that something wasnt right. It was an ominous silence, he recalls. I was aware that something was going to happen. So he got out of bed, dressed and went to take a look around. There wasnt a soul in sight, but as he came to a little town square, he saw up ahead a dozen or so troops lingering menacingly. I couldnt tell if it was army, paramilitary, whatever, he says, so he quickly made his way back home. There, he discovered his phone wouldnt work, and there was no internet. It had all been shut down. We couldnt call anybody, he says today. We couldnt do anything. So began one of the most extraordinary periods in the modern history of Kashmir, a region in the shadow of the Himalayas controlled by three nuclear-armed states: India to the south, China to the east and Pakistan to the west. Both India and Pakistan claim the entire territory as theirs, their troops facing off across an informal border called the Line of Control (more on that later). It is one of the worlds most militarised regions, with hundreds of thousands of troops stationed on both sides of the line. Credit: Getty Images, Fairfax Media Wahid, a historian of Central Eurasian political history, was at his home in Srinagar in Indian-controlled Kashmir. For the next year-and-a-half, the city and surrounding towns endured a series of lockdowns far more severe than those imposed by governments to combat the spread of COVID. Travel was banned. Journalists were barred. Communications were blocked. Thousands of Kashmiri people were detained, even disappeared, under draconian anti-terrorist laws. And now they fear a similar crackdown is under way as India responds to a terrorist massacre of 26 tourists last month. In its search for those responsible for the attack, India has flooded Kashmiri towns with troops and police, blown up homes and detained thousands. It has accused Pakistan of aiding the militants, and this week launched missile attacks against multiple Pakistani targets, including inside Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, in what it calls Operation Sindoor. Pakistan denies any responsibility for the terror attack. It pledged to respond to Indias strikes, and hostilities have continued to escalate, prompting the Group of Seven nations, which includes the United States and Britain, to urge maximum restraint from both sides. Why is this part of the world so fraught? Could India and Pakistans friction escalate into a nuclear exchange? What will become of Kashmir?

Advertisement

In Jaipur, the wife of accountant Neeraj Udhwani mourns during his last rites. He was killed in the terror attack in Pahalgam in April while the couple was on holiday. Credit: Getty Images, digitally tinted What just happened? On April 22, a small group of gunmen suddenly appeared among the throng of tourists visiting the Baisaran Valley, a popular attraction east of Srinagar, in Indian-controlled Kashmir, known as Little Switzerland for its soaring peaks and wooded hillsides. They massacred 26 people and wounded some 17 others. The dead were mostly Indian Hindu men visiting the area. A survivor, on her honeymoon, told the Associated Press the men asked her and her husband about their religion. When her husband replied that they were Hindu, he was shot in the head. A group called the Resistance Front later took responsibility. Its name has been reported as a proxy for a Pakistan-based terror group called Lashkar-e-Taiba, although with the perpetrators still at large, exactly who is responsible remains unresolved. India responded with a massive manhunt. It also took the unprecedented step of threatening to cut off water supplies to Pakistan from the Indus River system, suspending a treaty that had been observed since 1960  a move it said would endure until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism. Pakistan president Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Indian prime minister Indira Gandhi sign an agreement in Simla in India in June 1972. Credit: AP, digitally tinted How hundreds of millions of litres of water might be diverted is as yet unknown, but the threat served to increase friction with Pakistan, which said that any attempt to stop or divert the flow of water would be considered an act of war. The taps are not going to run dry immediately, says Sudhir Selvaraj, a political scientist at the University of Bradford. But in the long run, that could have a significant impact for Pakistan. In response, Pakistan suspended its participation in the Shimla Agreement, a pact signed in 1972 by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, the president of Pakistan, and Indira Gandhi, the prime minister of India, to aid co-operation and understanding in the region  a significant symbolic act. On Wednesday, matters escalated further when Indian warplanes struck several Pakistani sites. In a statement, the Indian government said that no Pakistani military facilities had been hit, and the raids had been focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature  apparently targeting militant strongholds. It said evidence pointed towards the clear involvement of Pakistan-based terrorists. The Pakistani government said the strikes would not go unanswered, pledging that the temporary pleasure of India will be replaced by enduring grief. It claimed to have shot down five Indian jets. Since then, tensions have continued to ratchet up. On Saturday, the two countries were reported to have exchanged missile strikes on military targets.

Advertisement

Security force officials stand outside a damaged building at a site of a suspected Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir on May 7. Credit: nna\advidler Why is Kashmir contested? The situation is complicated by competing and as-yet unresolvable claims to the region. Pakistan says it is the rightful owner of the whole of Kashmir, including the Indian-administered territories; India lays claim to those parts administered by Pakistan. China, meanwhile, controls a mountainous and barely habitable sliver on the eastern border, ostensibly for strategic reasons. Then there are those Kashmiri who want independence from both India and Pakistan. From a contemporary point of view, Kashmir is where Indian, Pakistani and Chinese interests interact and, more often than not, collide, says Indian author and policy researcher Abhijnan Rej. Kashmir has traditionally been a counter-insurgency as well as a counter-terrorism challenge, an internal security issue for India as much as an external military one. He suggests there are a small number of highly trained terrorists operating with modest local support whose aim is to inject sectarian fuel into a dying flame. That was fuelled in 2019, when India revoked the protected status that gave its parts of Kashmir limited autonomy, changing them into whats called union territories, controlled directly from New Delhi (technically by revoking Article 370 of the Indian constitution, a controversial move that was nevertheless upheld by Indias Supreme Court). A Kashmiri woman weeps after her relative was injured during clashes over Indias change to the regions status in 2019. Credit: Getty Images, digitally tinted In Jammu and Kashmir, in particular, this was seen as a blatant attempt by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a hawkish Indian nationalist, to assimilate its Muslim-majority people and culture into Hindu-majority India. In addition to making it less powerful politically, it also allowed for a change in demographics, says Sudhir Selvaraj, as the change for the first time let Indians from the rest of India buy land in Muslim-majority Jammu and Kashmir.

Advertisement

To head off any possible separatist uprising, Modi ordered the brutal clampdown on travel, internet and dissent. Siddiq Wahid, an academic with the Shiv Nadar University in New Delhi, remembers a friend riding a bicycle over to his house to come and tell me to keep my mouth shut. Historically, Pakistan has sponsored militants in Kashmir, Michael Kugelman, a South-East Asia analyst, tells us from Washington. But in recent years, groups have emerged that are largely indigenous, depending heavily on local fighters and resources. Thats not to say that there cant be cases of external backing for local militants. This has been a reality, too. Were a long way from past decades, when Pakistan would directly dispatch jihadists into Kashmir. But the nexus between indigenous militants in Kashmir and the Pakistani security establishment remains murky. Srinigars Jhelum River, seen here in 1917, is one of several waterways covered by a 1960 treaty. Credit: Getty Images, digitally tinted How did we get here? When we say Kashmir, we mean the entire mountainous region bordered by China (to the north and east), India (to the south), Pakistan (to the west) and Afghanistan (in the northwest). It is a land of lush valleys, soaring peaks, Himalayan foothills and massive glaciers. Politically, however, Kashmir is divided into several territories with varying degrees of autonomy. To the north-west, the regions of Azad Jammu Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan are administered by Pakistan; India controls Jammu and Kashmir in the south and the territory of Ladakh in the east; China controls a region further east called Aksai Chin. This is a relatively recent development. Until 1947, the wider Kashmir area was a princely state ruled by a maharaja (prince) under the auspices of colonial Britain. That all changed after 1947 when the British withdrew from India. Fearing religious conflict across the subcontinent once it had departed, Britain drew up a plan to divide India into two new nations along religious lines, a plan known as Partition. It was a time of great upheaval, according to Delhis Partition Museum, a nightmare for the thousands of families who suddenly found themselves uprooted in a land they had inhabited for generations. Law and order broke down, and there were large-scale massacres and looting as families left their homeland to trudge across the new, arbitrarily drawn borders. The Hindus would remain mostly in the south  in what we know as India today  while two Muslim-majority territories in the north-west and south-east were to become the new nation of Pakistan, reportedly an acronym derived from Punjab, Afghanistan, Kashmir, Sindh, Tukharistan and Baluchistan.

Advertisement

The status of Kashmir, stuck between Pakistan and India, was ambiguous. While majority Muslim, its maharaja, Hari Singh, did not particularly want to become part of Pakistan. So as part of the negotiations over Partition, India and Pakistan initially appeared to agree that Kashmirs maharaja could take his time and decide whether he wanted to become part of either of the two nations, or remain largely independent. Soon, however, armed tribesmen from Pakistan began insurgencies into Kashmir. Under pressure, the maharaja decided to strike a deal to accede to India, hoping this would provide temporary military protection and that once things settled down, Kashmir would be able to hold a referendum to decide its own future. Says Rej: The maharaja understood that the cost of defence against the Pakistan-backed invasion would be accession to India, or utter destruction of his kingdom. Maharaja of Kashmir Hari Singh (second from right), with other maharajas in London c. 1930. Credit: Getty Images, digitally tinted Some believed, and still do to this day, that the maharaja did not have the authority to accede unilaterally without the support of his people. There is still a lot of contestation over the ascension document signed by the maharaja, says Sudhir Selvaraj. In particular, scholars debate the timing of when the ascension document was signed, which has implications for understanding Indias support for the maharaja. Loading Pakistan certainly saw accession as an act of aggression against its interests and formally invaded north-west Kashmir; India sent in troops to push them back. Skirmishes continued for over a year until the United Nations successfully intervened and, in January 1949, the warring nations agreed to a ceasefire, separated by an unofficial border that came to be known as the Line of Control. To the east, meanwhile, another ersatz border called the Line of Actual Control separates Indian-held Kashmir from a portion of the region that was later claimed by China, comprising around 18 per cent of the Kashmir region, according to Siddiq Wahid. Pakistani soldiers pray near the high-altitude part of the Pakistan-India border in 1989. Credit: Getty Images, digitally tinted

Advertisement
Washington: Mark Carney owes his new career to Donald Trump. Rather than leading Canadas Liberal Party to what might have been an ugly defeat, the former central banker has been reincarnated as prime minister of what sometimes feels like a nation at war, and he could yet become a Canadian hero if he prevails.

I think I was probably the greatest thing that happened to him, but I cant take full credit, Trump said as he greeted Carney for their first face-to-face meeting. It was probably one of the greatest comebacks in the history of politics, maybe even greater than mine.

Never say never: During a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at the White House, Donald Trump insisted Canadians might one day want to become part of the United States. Credit: AP

Carney retained government  albeit in minority  largely because Canadians soured on the Conservatives and instead backed him to take the fight up to Trumps tariffs and bullying. Though he brought no hostility into the Oval Office, Carney arrived in Washington with the imprimatur of an angry nation.

The events of February 28, when Trump met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office, have not faded from anyones memory. It showed anything can happen in this White House: a full-blown, on-camera showdown is always within the realm of possibility.
PHILIPSBURG:--- (DCOMM)  The application process for the annual Hurricane Passes for the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season that started on April 14 is currently underway.

Applicants are reminded that they should submit documents before the May 30 deadline.

There are two types of passes, the Disaster Pass and the Hurricane Pass. No passes will be issued to business owners, only with some exemption categories as noted below.

The pass allows the bearer to access the public road to visit the place of business to assess possible damage to the property. No company passes will be accepted during curfew hours. This can only take place during certain hours that will be stipulated and announced by the Prime Minister in a curfew situation.

Potential applicants have until Friday, May 30, 2025, to present all relevant information related to the process of requesting a pass.

Disaster Passes are issued to the following crucial disaster relief organizations and are valid for three years. The disaster relief organization consists of the following: Emergency Operations Center staff, Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) staff, Crucial governmental organizations, and entities involved in disaster management such as medical institutions, general practitioners and pharmacies, Red Cross, WIEMS, White & Yellow Cross Foundation, National Security Service VDSM, Sea Rescue, Shelter Management, Ministers, and their drivers.

The following categories qualify for a Hurricane Pass which is valid for two-years: Essential Government personnel without a disaster pass; Essential personnel of crucial companies or organizations: NV GEBE, Seven Seas Water, Telecom and Internet providers, Princess Juliana International Airport, Port St. Maarten, Hotels and Guesthouses, Marinas, Fuel distributors and gas stations, Commercial banks, Hardware stores, Security companies (supervisors only), Medium and large sized supermarkets, Restaurants (those providing food services to emergency services), Importers and Wholesale Companies for perishable goods (Only requests can be submitted for refrigeration and or generator technicians).

The crucial organizations listed above (disaster & hurricane passes) can request personal passes for their key personnel.

The Office of Disaster Management that falls under the Ministry of General Affairs is handling the application process for the passes on behalf of the Prime Minister.

The Hurricane Pass is valid for the 2025 and 2026 hurricane seasons and will remain the property of the Government of Sint Maarten.

Please note that company passes from the following institutions, Sint Maarten Medical Center and White & Yellow Cross Foundation, will be accepted during curfew hours.

The pass system is a mechanism to maintain public order during emergency situations. After a disaster has occurred, the Prime Minister assesses the damage in conjunction with the government's Emergency Disaster Management entities and can impose a curfew if the extent of the damage poses a threat to the safety and security of the community.

An application form can be requested by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . Emails should include the following: the name of the business or organization; a short description of its activities; and a request for either disaster or hurricane pass.

When submitting the application, the following documents need to be attached:

- copy business license fee paid (or receipt) for 2025 for businesses.

- proof of 2025 registration at the Chamber of Commerce, for organizations.

- copy valid Sint Maarten ID-card of applicant.

- Nafl. 50,- in leges stamps per application (to be obtained at the Receivers Office or the Simpson Bay Public Service Center), this is a non-refundable handling fee; a copy of a digital payment transfer is accepted as well.

- One (1) passport picture for new applicants, to be sent in JPEG-format to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the name of the person clearly indicated.

The application form has to be completed and submitted to the offices of the Fire Department & Disaster Management  in print form, to the attention of the secretary located at Jackal Road 5 (Office hours Monday-Friday 9.00AM to 4.00PM), Cay Hill, by Friday, May 30, 2025, with all necessary documents attached.

Applicants will be informed by email or telephone when to pick up the pass at the aforementioned address.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA) proudly joins the global community in celebrating National Nurses Week, observed from May 612, 2025. This years theme, Care, Lead, Inspire  Repeat, honors the dedication, resilience, and leadership of nurses everywhere, including the committed professionals right here on Sint Maarten.

Minister of VSA Richinel Brug extends heartfelt congratulations and deep gratitude to all nurses serving on the front lines of health care across the island, in particular nurses working within the Ministry of VSA:

Nurses are the heart of our health care system  steadfast in compassion, courage, and commitment. I want to sincerely thank each Sint Maarten nurse for your work. Your ability to care, to lead in difficult moments, to inspire those around you, and to return each day with renewed purpose is nothing short of extraordinary.

This week, under the theme introduced by the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL), we celebrate the enduring rhythm of nursing leadership. Nurses care deeply for patients, teams, and communities. They lead with integrity and vision, even in the most complex environments. They inspire through action, advocacy, and unwavering dedication  and they do it all, over and over again, every shift and every day.

All residents are encouraged to take a moment to recognize and appreciate the invaluable role nurses play in our society.

As we honor National Nurses Week 2025, let us uplift those who continue to care, lead, inspire, and repeat.
PHILIPSBURG: --- Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina marked his first year in office with a comprehensive overview of his administration's accomplishments. Despite facing early challenges, including the collapse of his first cabinet and subsequent elections, Prime Minister Mercelina emphasized the resilience and progress of his government, speaking on a wide range of initiatives that have strengthened the nation across multiple sectors.

May 3rd marked one year after the swearing-in of the first Mercelina Cabinet, which faced a collapse within weeks. Following elections in November, the Cabinet Mercelina II took office with a renewed mandate, pressing forward with its vision for "a peaceful, dynamic, and productive St. Maarten." The Prime Minister outlined his administration's strategy for stability, economic growth, and robust public service improvements.

Strengthening Governance and Public Service

Prime Minister Mercelina highlighted significant strides in bettering the government organization, from boosting civil servant satisfaction to implementing reforms to improve accountability. Among these is introducing a whistleblower policy, designed in consultation with the Integrity Chamber, to foster openness, reduce misconduct, and establish trust within the organization.

A national integrity assessment has also been initiated to evaluate standards across the public sector.

The Integrity Chambers draft plan of action will soon be presented to parliament, further bolstering transparency and ethics in governance.

Other public service initiatives included cost-of-living adjustments, increased vacation allowances, and ongoing efforts to develop a draft car policy to reduce government fleet expenditures.

Enhancing Infrastructure and Utilities

The administration tackled critical infrastructure projects head-on. One standout achievement was securing $40 million in support to stabilize the local energy provider GEBE, resolving a previous energy crisis, and achieving grid stability.

The government also opened the expanded Carnival Village, restored road improvement projects in conjunction with limited funds, and initiated efforts to digitize government operations.

Additionally, progress on the long-awaited hospital project has been visible, a development Prime Minister Mercelina referred to as his baby. With substantial headway made in construction, he emphasized its significance to the health and well-being of St. Maarten residents.

Economic Growth and Tourism Development

The government worked to stimulate economic recovery, particularly through the tourism and entrepreneurial sectors. Airlift to St. Maarten was expanded, with new airline partnerships secured from Europe, South America, and the United States. Events like Carnival 2025 and the Soul Beach initiative aimed to boost economic activity while enriching national cultural life.

The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic, and Telecommunication (TEATT) also spearheaded efforts to revitalize Philipsburg and launched incentives for small vendors and business owners.

Focus on Justice and Security

Under the Ministry of Justice, the government advanced several key projects. Seven recruits were added to the police force, a new substation was opened in Cole Bay, and uniforms and essential equipment were provided to customs personnel. The administration also tackled backlogs in immigration permits, processing over 2,000 in just six months, and streamlined immigration permit procedures by introducing new software.

Efforts were also made to promote cross-border collaborations, including an upcoming treaty between the Netherlands and France to address shared security concerns in the lagoon area.

Social Services and Health Improvements

The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA) achieved notable successes, such as increasing the minimum wage and expediting old-age pension processes. The government allocated funds for mental health care and homelessness projects, including a six-month pilot program launched in April 2025.

The administration also initiated a health professional registry and secured additional trust fund financing to address mental health challenges in St. Maarten.

Final Reflections

Reflecting on his governments accomplishments, Prime Minister Mercelina urged the public not to overlook the progress made across ministries, despite financial constraints and ongoing challenges. "We must not forget the strides taken, he said, attributing achievements to the collective efforts of ministers working as one team.

Dr. Mercelinas administration looks ahead to continued collaboration among ministries and the rollout of its governing program, which promises even more initiatives to secure a bright and prosperous future for St. Maarten.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina has addressed escalating concerns about the bidding process and the awarding of contracts for projects managed by the National Recovery Program Bureau (NRPB). The discussion, which focused on the reconstruction of the library, the Charles Leopold Bell School, and Sr. Marie Laurence School, brought attention to challenges faced by local contractors, the influence of World Bank procurement guidelines, and recent developments in the withdrawal of a previously awarded contract.

Prime Minister Mercelina clarified that the bidding and contracting for these projects are governed by procurement rules set by the World Bank, which oversees a 550 million trust fund provided by the Netherlands for recovery efforts. "The procurement rules are determined by the World Bank, not the Ministry of General Affairs or the NRPB," he stated, emphasizing the government's limited control over these regulations. However, he acknowledged that the stringent procurement standards have created significant hurdles for local contractors, many of whom struggle to meet the qualifications required by the World Bank.

A Chinese company secured the contract for these school projects at an earlier stage of the bidding process. However, the government later withdrew the contract, reflecting underlying inefficiencies in the procurement system.

It was revealed that no permits had been issued to the company before the withdrawal, which has now necessitated a new bidding process. "The system was not working efficiently to guarantee progress," Mercelina admitted, citing poor communication and misalignment between international standards and local practices as contributing factors.

Efforts are now underway to redefine the procurement framework to accommodate local participation better. Government representatives and the World Bank have initiated discussions to reassess the rules, allowing local contractors improved access to future opportunities. "We now have an opportunity to rebid, giving local companies a more accessible chance to participate in executing these projects," Mercelina noted.

He highlighted the importance of moving quickly, given that the funding from the Netherlands must be utilized by 2028. "We are accelerating the process to ensure we can move forward efficiently with the library and school projects. Its a brand-new phase, and we are committed to enhancing channels for local involvement," he said.

This is not the first time high-profile public contracts have sparked controversies in the region, referencing the VAMED Group case. The Austrian healthcare contractor took national health insurer USZV and the former Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA) to court after USZV awarded the contract for constructing the New General Hospital to Italian firm INSO. The legal battle culminated in a settlement, with a sum of one million dollars paid to VAMED following the dispute.

This case underscored the challenges of aligning competitive procurement processes with transparency and fairness, as well as the financial implications of resolving such disputes.

The government's revised approach to procurement seeks to avoid similar pitfalls. By promoting inclusive practices that respect international funding guidelines while fostering opportunities for local businesses, the administration aims to strengthen economic participation across sectors. These adjustments are seen as a necessary step toward achieving recovery goals within the constraints of the allocated timeline.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Dutch Prime Minister is set to visit St. Martin on May 12th during an intense five-day trip to the Caribbean islands. On the day of his visit, he is expected to have three key engagements with the Prime Minister of St. Maarten, Dr. Luc Mercelina,

First, the Dutch Prime Minister will be welcomed at the airport, followed by a one-on-one meeting between the two leaders in the Prime Ministers office. Finally, there will be a broader meeting involving the Dutch Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers of St. Martin. Additionally, a packed protocol schedule will include visits to various sites on the island, reflecting the limited time available.

The visit underscores the importance of collaboration between St. Maarten and the Netherlands and is anticipated to cover a wide range of discussions.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Holistic health writer Roseann Rumnit, a proud descendant of Sint Maarten and native of Aruba, has generously donated her debut book, How to Get to the Bridge, to the Sint Maarten Library and the wider community.

As a certified Health Detoxification Specialist, Rumnit shares her deeply personal journey to raise awareness about the importance of living intentionally and prioritizing health. Her book encourages readers to make more conscious lifestyle choices and explores natural home remedies that supported her through her own health challenges.

How to Get to the Bridge is not a substitute for professional medical advice, but rather a complementary guide that emphasizes wellness through healthy nutrition, hydration, and holistic practices. The book highlights the value of agricultural awareness, herbal medicine, detoxification techniques, and traditional remedies that may assist in managing health concerns and promoting body cleansing.

Featuring brief definitions of health terms, common diseases, recipes, and time-honored remedies, How to Get to the Bridge serves as a practical pocket guide. Rooted in Sint Maartens local traditions, it offers readers accessible self-help insights grounded in cultural knowledge.

The Sint Maarten Library is honored to support local authors and provide a platform for their voices. General Manager Marc Marshall, together with library staff, graciously accepted the donation and proudly added Rumnits work to the collection.

The book is now available to the public and represents a valuable addition to the librarys health and wellness offerings.

The Sint Maarten Library remains committed to inspiring a love for reading and lifelong learning. Through its diverse collection and community-focused programs, the library continues to serve as a vital hub for education and cultural enrichment on the island.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The National Recovery Program Bureau (NRPB) and N.V. GEBE have signed a US$5.1 million agreement to begin underground placement of mid-voltage electrical cables and potable water pipes in four areas of Sint Maarten: Cole Bay, South Reward, Pointe Blanch, and on parts of A.T. Illidge Road. The works fall under the Emergency Recovery Project (ERP1), which will expand the islands underground utility network and reduce vulnerability to extreme weather events.

The Honorable Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina asserts that the initiative is an investment in infrastructure. This activity is a step toward a future where the people of Sint Maarten can rely on modern, resilient, and sustainable utilities. It reflects our broader vision of building our country to be prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow with strength and innovation.

More than 9 kilometers of overhead mid-tension and low-voltage electricity lines will be placed underground. In South Reward new water distribution lines will be placed with connections to individual homes. Safety and traffic management measures will be put in place in affected neighborhoods in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI).

Patrice Gumbs, Minister of VROMI, Government is committed to enhancing infrastructure to match growing development and population needs; this collaboration ensures the delivery of long-awaited network improvements for the people of Sint Maarten and our commitment to sustainable, forward-thinking development.

This latest initiative builds on underground cabling works first launched in 2022 under ERP1. At that time, more than nine kilometers of low-voltage electrical lines were placed underground in several neighborhoods within the Cul de Sac basin, along with the installation of water lines and future-ready conduits for fiber optic cables. These works supported the development of infrastructure to areas that suffered extended outages following the 2017 hurricanes. The newly signed agreement represents a continuation of that effort focusing now on mid-voltage lines and water distribution in the above-mentioned districts

Thomas Roggendorf, N.V. GEBE, Interim manager asserts that, NV GEBE cares deeply about the community of St. Maarten. Projects like these are not just about infrastructure, they are about resilience. They allow us to restore vital services more quickly after a storm and ensure that our people are safe and supported. We are proud to be in partnership with NRPB that share our vision, because when we work together, we build back stronger and faster.

Whilst Claret Connor, Director of NRPB adds, The agreement reflects the Trust Funds commitment to improving essential infrastructure improvements that strengthen our resilience and safeguard communities. By advancing this work now, the groundwork is laid for a stronger and more reliable network that can better withstand future storms.

Work is scheduled to begin in May 2025, and residents in the impacted areas will receive advance notice. GEBE confirms it will continue to post detailed updates on its Facebook page, including work schedules and traffic advisories.

The work is being implemented by N.V. GEBE with support from the National Recovery Program Bureau (NRPB), on behalf of the Government of Sint Maarten. It is financed by the Sint Maarten Trust Fund, which is funded by the Government of the Netherlands and managed by the World Bank.
MainStreaming, the award-winning and innovative Edge Video Delivery Network, proudly announces its participation in the Euro Stack initiative, reinforcing its commitment to supporting Europe s technological innovation and digital sovereignty. As a key player in the EU s content delivery ecosystem, MainStreaming has also formally signed the Euro Stack Open Letter to the European Commission, advocating for a stronger, independent digital infrastructure in Europe.

Euro Stack is a collective of European technology companies and organizations working together to ensure that Europe s digital future is built on open, competitive, and sovereign foundations. By fostering collaboration between cloud, platform, and service providers across the continent, Euro Stack aims to create a robust ecosystem that empowers European businesses and protects the continent s strategic autonomy in the digital space.

As a European company with a solid market presence across the EU, MainStreaming has long believed in the importance of reclaiming control over digital infrastructure to ensure resilience, competitiveness, and security. The company supports the view that Europe must nurture its own technology champions, reduce dependency on external providers, and build a collaborative ecosystem that drives innovation while safeguarding the continent s digital assets.

Joining Euro Stack is a natural step for MainStreaming, as we share the initiative s mission to build a sovereign and collaborative European digital ecosystem, said Antonio Corrado, Founder & Chairman of MainStreaming. Our intelligent media delivery solutions already empower broadcasters, telcos, and enterprises within Europe, and we believe that through collective action, we can accelerate innovation and secure Europe s digital future.

With its Intelligent Media Delivery Platform, MainStreaming enables broadcasters, OTTs, and network operators to stream video content efficiently while ensuring full control over data and delivery infrastructure. This aligns with Euro Stack s principles of openness, interoperability, and competitiveness: key pillars for reducing dependency on non-European solutions and fostering digital autonomy.

By signing the Euro Stack Open Letter (https://euro-stackletter.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/EuroStack-Signatures-30.4-1.pdf) addressed to the European Commission, MainStreaming joins over 200 leading European tech organizations in calling for policies and frameworks that support European digital players. The letter emphasizes the need for the EU to encourage innovation through fair competition, open standards, and strategic investments in European technologies.

Euro Stack s initiative resonates with a growing movement across Europe to develop an independent tech stack that can compete globally while upholding European values such as data privacy, user rights, and market fairness. Through this alliance, MainStreaming aims to contribute its expertise in video delivery infrastructure to build a more resilient, high-performance European digital ecosystem.

We believe that Europe has the talent, the innovation, and the determination to lead in the next era of digital transformation, added Corrado. But this requires commitment from both the private and public sectors to invest in sovereign technologies and collaborate for the good of the continent s digital future.

About MainStreaming

press@mainstreaming.tv

For more information:

For more information about Euro Stack and its mission, visit euro-stack.eu. For further details about Antonio Corrado s position towards Europe s digital sovereignty, read his full article.

MainStreaming is an Intelligent Media Delivery Company that empowers enterprises, media, and gaming companies to ensure the best Quality of Experience to their audience, providing scalability and full control over the video distribution process.

Its solution improves network efficiency, delivers exceptional reliability, enhances Quality of Service, and provides a tangible financial and environmental ROI.

Sara Mariotti

press@mainstreaming.tvPhone: +39 02 868 969

Email: press@mainstreaming.tv

Website: www.mainstreaming.com

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2680436/MainStreaming.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/mainstreaming-joins-euro-stack-initiative-to-champion-european-tech-innovation-and-digital-sovereignty-302447353.html

Original-Content von: MainStreaming S.p.A, ubermittelt durch news aktuell
The Town of Cheektowaga has ordered the Luna Lounge bar and music venue to cease operations, citing violations of town code and public safety concerns.

The towns fire safety office issued the cease and desist order on Monday, informing the business that its operating permit had been revoked, according to a letter shared by Councilmember Diane Benczkowski.

Luna Lounge is a bar that also hosts events and live music. It is located on Dingens Street, next to the Best Western and across the street from a school in a residential area.

According to town officials, the business must be permitted as a dance hall under town code, but it is not. The town also accused Luna Lounges owners of misrepresenting relevant facts in its operating permit application, according to the letter.

There are public safety concerns with this property, Cheektowaga Supervisor Brian Nowak said. Theres obviously issues with the neighbors looking at them as a nuisance. But I dont want us to get to a place as a town where this escalates and escalates and escalates to where something happens, where somebody really gets hurt, and, God forbid, worse than that. The signs are pointing that things are moving in this direction with the way things are going on this property. Thats a big concern to me. Im sure its a big concern to (Cheektowaga police) and obviously to the residents.

Asylum-seeker accused of damaging Cheektowaga restaurant A Venezuelan seeking asylum in the United States is charged in connection with $12,000 damage to a Cheektowaga hotel and shoplifting from a Walden Galleria store.

Over the last year, Cheektowaga police have been called to Luna Lounge 114 times, mostly for noise complaints, but also for reports of fights and other disturbances, said Capt. Jeffrey Schmidt. There have also been three shooting incidents at the venue since it opened in May 2023, Nowak said, with the most recent happening at the end of April.

Police were called to Luna Lounge just before 1 a.m. on April 28. Officers found a shell casing at the scene, indicating a gun had been fired, Schmidt said.

Police interviewed witnesses, who said they heard gunshots but no one was shot. Officers did not find any injured victims, Schmidt said. No arrests have been made and the incident is still under investigation.

Luna Lounges attorney, Jacob Piorkowski, said the business owners have taken significant steps to increase security and make sure patrons and neighbors are safe. They want to work with the town to rectify officials concerns so the lounge can reopen, he said.

These guys have a lot of employees, have a lot of money invested in this place, Piorkowski said. It would be a shame if it was shut down so abruptly.

Nowak said the town has tried to work with Luna Lounge in the past, but the issues have persisted.

The Town Board is working together on how to get these guys to either be better a neighbor, or not to operate anymore, Nowak said.

Piorkowski said Luna Lounges owners were not aware they needed a specific permit for dancing, but theyve already gone to the town to get the application for the dance hall permit.

The business recently renewed all its licenses and permits with the town. When it applied for a state liquor license, it noted on its application that the lounge would have DJs and dancing, Piorkowski said. All liquor licenses have to be approved by the municipality where the business operates.

Piorkowski also said he is not sure what the town is referring to in the cease and desist letter about the business misrepresenting material fact on its operating permit application.

My guess is either its a mistake or its something that we can work out fairly easily, he said. From what I understand, theyve been very transparent in what the intentions of the business were, and the method in which the business was going to operate.

Piorkowski said the recent shooting stemmed from a misunderstanding that there was a party going on at Luna Lounge the night of April 27.

That night, dozens of people showed up because they thought there was an event at the lounge, but the business had not advertised any events and was not prepared for the large crowd, Piorkowski said. Those who were involved in the shooting were not patrons of the bar, he said.

There was some discrepancy that took place in the parking lot, from what I can gather so far, and a shot was fired, Piorkowski said.

Thank goodness no one was hurt. Its really an alarming situation and my clients take it really, really seriously, but this sort of seems like a horrible circumstance where a lot of people had the wrong understanding that there was some sort of event taking place at Luna Lounge. There was not and so confusion ensued, he said.

The lounges owners have been cooperating with the police investigation, Piorkowski said.

Theyre not turning a blind eye to this, Piorkowski said. Theyre not acting as if its not an issue. This is significant and this is a business that theyve invested a lot of time and money into. They want the neighbors concerns addressed. They want their patrons to be safe. This is a big deal, and theyre treating it as such.
Commentary

By Sylvain Charlebois

The Liberal Party, now led by Mark Carney, has secured a fourth cosecutive term, albeit once again with a minority mandate. This time, however, the Liberals have a stronger hand, as they can rely not only on the NDP but also the Bloc Quebecois to maintain power.

This broader base of parliamentary support could provide much-needed political stability at a crucial time, particularly as Canada prepares for a new round of trade negotiations with the United States and Mexico.

For the agri-food sector, the implications are significant. From carbon taxes to trade rules, federal decisions play a decisive role in shaping the costs and risks Canadian farmers face.

First and foremost, carbon pricing will remain a central issue. Carney has made it clear that the industrial carbon tax will staya policy that continues to erode the competitiveness of Canadas agri-food sector, where fuel, fertilizer and transportation costs are especially sensitive to carbon pricing. The tax, currently set at $95 per metric tonne, is scheduled to climb to $170 by 2030.

While consumers may not see this tax directly, businesses certainly do. More concerning is the Liberals intention to introduce a border carbon adjustment for imports from countries without equivalent carbon pricing regimes. While this could theoretically protect Canadian industry, it also risks making food even more expensive for Canadian consumers, particularly if the U.S., our largest trading partner, remains uninterested in adopting similar carbon measures. Acting alone risks undermining both our food security and our global competitiveness.

Another looming issue is supply management. Although all parties pledged during the campaign not to alter Canadas system for dairy, poultry and eggs, this frameworkbuilt on quotas and high import tariffsis increasingly outdated. It is almost certain to come under pressure during trade negotiations. The American dairy lobby, in particular, will continue to demand greater access to Canadian markets. The Liberals have a chance to chart a more forward-looking path. Modernizing supply management could lead to a more competitive, resilient industry while providing consumers with greater choice and better prices.

The previous Parliaments passage of Bill C-282, which sought to shield supply-managed sectors from all future trade negotiations, was a deeply flawed move. Fortunately, the new parliamentary makeup should make it far less likely that such protectionist legislation will survive. A more pragmatic approach to trade policy appears possible.

On the domestic front, there are reasons for cautious optimism. The Liberals have promised to eliminate remaining federal barriers to interprovincial trade and to improve labour mobility, longstanding obstacles to the efficient movement of agri-food products across Canada. For example, differing provincial rules often prevent products like cheese, meat or wine from being sold freely across provinces, frustrating farmers and limiting consumer choice. Momentum was building before the election, and it must continue if we are serious about building a stronger domestic food economy.

Infrastructure investment is another bright spot. The Liberals pledged more than $5 billion through a Trade Diversification Corridor Fund to upgrade Canadas severely undercapitalized export infrastructure. Strategic investment in trade gateways is overdue and critical for agri-food exporters looking to reduce reliance on the United States and expand into global markets.

Finally, the Liberal platform was alone in explicitly committing to support food processing in Canada, a crucial pillar of domestic food security. An increased focus on manufacturing will not only create jobs but also reduce reliance on imported food products, making Canada more resilient in the face of global disruptions.

Farmers have long felt sidelined by urban-centric Liberal governments. The past four years were marked by regulatory and trade clashes that deepened that divide. The hope now is that with greater political stability and a clearer focus on competitiveness, the next four years will bring a more constructive relationship between Ottawa and Canadas agri-food sector.

If the Liberals are serious about food security and economic growth, now is the time to reset the relationship with Canadas farmers, not ignore them yet again.

Dr. Sylvain Charlebois is the senior director of the Agri-Food Analytics Lab at Dalhousie University and co-host of The Food Professor Podcast.
Google agrees to fund three US nuclear plants



Washington, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



Tech giant Google and nuclear developer Elementl Power have signed an agreement to develop three advanced nuclear power plants in the United States, according to a statement released Wednesday.

The partnership comes as technology companies seek new power sources to meet the growing energy demands of the generative AI revolution.

Under the agreement, Google will provide early-stage development capital for three projects, each designed to generate at least 600 megawatts of power capacity, each roughly the equivalent to a standard large power plant.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), electricity consumption by data centers is projected to more than double by 2030, creating significant challenges for securing adequate energy as AI usage accelerates.

Google's Global Head of Data Center Energy, Amanda Peterson Corio, said the plan helps fulfill the company's commitment to strengthening power grids.

"Advanced nuclear technology provides reliable, baseload, 24/7 energy" that supports "AI and American innovation," she added.

The collaboration will involve working with utility and regulated power partners to identify suitable locations, according to a joint statement from the companies.

Major tech companies increasingly recognize their growing energy needs.

Microsoft plans to use energy from new reactors at Three Mile Island -- the site of America's worst nuclear accident when it experienced a meltdown in 1979.

Amazon also signed an agreement last year to use nuclear power for its data centers.

Elementl Power will evaluate potential nuclear technology providers and construction partners while selecting specific sites for accelerated development.

Although expensive and politically complicated to build, nuclear power provides consistent, zero-carbon electricity once operational.

Tech companies are investing in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), though these compact, potentially easier-to-deploy reactors remain experimental.

Amazon has announced investments in SMR projects, including a direct investment in startup X-energy.

Google is partnering with Kairos Power to develop SMRs that it says could be operational as early as 2030.
OpenAI offers to help countries build AI systems



San Francisco, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



OpenAI on Wednesday announced an initiative to help countries build their own artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructures, with the US government a partner in projects.

The San Francisco tech firm's move to put its technology at the heart of national AI platforms around the world comes as it faces competition from Chinese rival DeepSeek.

DeepSeek's success in delivering powerful AI models at a lower cost has rattled Silicon Valley and multiplied calls for US big tech to protect its dominance of the emerging technology.

"It's clear to everyone now that this kind of infrastructure is going to be the backbone of future economic growth and national development," OpenAI said in a blog post.

"This is a moment when we need to act to support countries around the world that would prefer to build on democratic AI rails, and provide a clear alternative to authoritarian versions of AI that would deploy it to consolidate power."

The OpenAI for Countries initiative was launched under the auspices of a Stargate drive announced by US President Donald Trump to invest up to $500 billion in AI infrastructure in the United States.

"We've heard from many countries asking for help in building out similar AI infrastructure," OpenAI said.

"In response to these interested governments, OpenAI is offering a new kind of partnership for the Intelligence Age."

OpenAI, in "coordination" with the US government, will help countries build datacenters and provide customized versions of its ChatGPT AI tailored for local languages and cultures to improve healthcare, education and public services, according to the tech firm.

Projects are to involve "local as well as OpenAI capital".

Partner countries would invest in the broader Stargate Project to expand "US-led AI leadership," OpenAI said.
Web archivists scrambling to save US public data from deletion



Washington, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



As President Donald Trump's administration purges public records since storming back to power, experts and volunteers are preserving thousands of web pages and government sites devoted to climate change, health or LGBTQ rights and other issues.

Resources on AIDS prevention and care, weather records, references to ethnic or gender minorities: numerous databases were destroyed or modified after Trump signed an executive order in January declaring diversity, equality and inclusion programs and policies within the federal governmentto be illegal.

More than 3,000 pages from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention site were taken down and more than 1,000 from the Justice Department's website, Paul Schroeder, president of the Council of Professional Associations on Federal Statistics, told AFP.



- 404 error -



Some websites have disappeared altogether, such as that of the US development agency USAID, which has been effectively shuttered as Trump slashes US aid to poor countries.

And the National Children's Health Survey page displays a "404 error" message.

Federal agencies must now avoid hundreds of words such as "woman," "disability," "racism", "climate crisis" and "pollution" in their communications, the New York Times reported.

"The focus has been on removing language related to environmental (or) climate justice on websites, as well as removing data and tools related to environmental (or) climate justice," Eric Nost, a geographer at Canada's University of Guelph and member of the Environmental Data and Governance Initiative (EDGI) told AFP.

"This Trump administration moved more quickly and with a greater scope than the previous Trump administration," he said.

EDGI, a consortium of academics and volunteers, began safeguarding public climate and environmental data after Trump's first election in 2016.

Among the tools used are the WayBack Machine from the non-profit Internet Archive, or Perma.cc, developed by the Library Innovation Lab at Harvard Law School.

These systems, which long predate Trump's election, help "courts and law journals preserve the web pages they cite to," said Jack Cushman, director of the Library Innovation Lab.

Long used by journalists, researchers and NGOs, web archiving enables a page to be preserved, even if it were to disappear from the internet or be modified later.

This data is then stored on servers in a large digital library, allowing anyone to consult it freely.



- Volunteer work -



Archiving initiatives have multiplied, expanded and coordinated since Trump's return to the White House.

The Data Rescue Project (DRP) brought together several organizations to save as much data as possible.

"We were concerned about data being deleted. We wanted to try to see what we could do to rescue them," Lynda Kellam, a university librarian and DRP organizer, told AFP.

She first launched the project as an online Google doc in February -- a simple word-processing tool listing downloaded PDF files, original dataset titles and archived links.

It is now maintained by volunteers "who are working after work" to keep it running, said Kellam.

"We are all volunteers, even myself. We have other jobs so that has been challenging," Kellam added.

The data collection work, largely carried out by associations and university libraries, is threatened by a lack of resources.

"Funding is the key issue... as the library and archives community rushes to take on a larger preservation challenges than ever before," Cushman said.

"We need to fund coordinators for the ongoing effort, new tools, and new homes for the data."

Harvard is also battling the ire of the Trump administration, which has cut federal grants to the prestigious university and threatened its tax-exempt status after it refused to comply with the president's demands to accept government oversight.

"Data is the modern lighthouse, helping us plan our lives: it shows where we are so we can plan where we're going," Cushman said.

"Businesses, individuals, and governments will suffer greatly from any failure to collect and share reliable data on weather and climate, health, justice, housing, employment, and so on."

ecb/tq/dhw/dw
Google shares plunge after Apple executive's court testimony



Washington, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



Shares in Google parent Alphabet plunged more than eight percent on Wednesday after Apple executive Eddy Cue testified in federal court that Google's search traffic on Apple devices declined last month for the first time in over two decades.

Cue, Apple's senior vice president of services, told the Washington antitrust trial that Google was losing ground to AI alternatives like ChatGPT and Perplexity.

His revelation that this decline "has never happened in 22 years" sent shockwaves through Wall Street, wiping more than $170 billion from Google's market capitalization in a single trading session.

The testimony came during a pivotal trial where District Judge Amit Mehta will determine remedies for Google's previously ruled illegal search monopoly.

The case, ongoing since 2020, has exposed Google's practice of paying Apple tens of billions dollars annually to remain the default search engine on Safari browsers and Apple smartphones.

Investors were further unsettled when Cue suggested Apple might soon offer AI alternatives as default search options on its devices, heightening concerns that Google's advertising revenue could face serious threats from AI competitors.

With the three-week trial set to conclude Friday, government attorneys are pushing Judge Mehta to order Google to divest its Chrome browser.

They argue that AI technologies will only strengthen Google's dominance by leveraging its vast data resources across products like Maps, YouTube, and Chrome to stifle competition.

However, Cue's testimony bolstered Google's defense that AI is already disrupting its search dominance, with chatbots now posing legitimate threats to its business model.



- 'Losing sleep' -



When Judge Mehta issues his ruling in August, he could end Google's default search agreements with Apple and others -- a prospect that Cue told the court he was "losing sleep" over, with potential revenue losses impacting Apple's product development and operating system investment.

Alternatively, Mehta might order Google to share its search data with competitors, which CEO Sundar Pichai warned would effectively amount to a "de facto divestiture of search."

As a counter offer, Google proposes a more limited remedy that would allow it to continue paying for default placement of its search engine, but with an annual renegotiations and greater freedom for smartphone manufacturers to choose which Google apps to install on their devices.

The Google case represents just one of five major tech antitrust actions currently pursued by the US government, with Meta facing similar scrutiny in the same courthouse.

Google recently lost a separate case regarding its ad technology business and may face additional divestitures, while Apple and Amazon are also expected to confront antitrust challenges in US courts.
Top US court allows Trump's ban on trans troops to take effect



Washington, May 6 (AFP) May 06, 2025



A divided US Supreme Court on Tuesday allowed President Donald Trump's ban on transgender military personnel to take effect while litigation plays out, putting thousands of troops at risk of dismissal.

The ruling -- which the court's three liberal justices opposed -- is a significant victory for Trump, who has made rolling back transgender rights a major part of his second term in office, and has railed against judges who blocked parts of his agenda.

Lambda Legal and the Human Rights Campaign Foundation -- which filed the lawsuit that had resulted in a lower court temporarily blocking the implementation of the ban -- slammed the Supreme Court's decision.

The ruling "is a devastating blow to transgender servicemembers who have demonstrated their capabilities and commitment to our nation's defense," the organizations said in a statement .

"Transgender individuals meet the same standards and demonstrate the same values as all who serve. We remain steadfast in our belief that this ban violates constitutional guarantees of equal protection and will ultimately be struck down," they said.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt hailed the ruling as "another MASSIVE victory in the Supreme Court," saying in a post on X that Trump and Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth "are restoring a military that is focused on readiness and lethality -- not DEI or woke gender ideology."

Hegseth meanwhile responded to the news with a post on his personal X account that said: "No More Trans @ DoD."

In a January 27 executive order, Trump stated that "expressing a false 'gender identity' divergent from an individual's sex cannot satisfy the rigorous standards necessary for military service."



- Shifting policies -



The Pentagon followed that up with a memo issued in late February stating that it would remove transgender troops from the military unless they obtain a waiver on a case-by-case basis, as well as prevent transgender people from joining.

The Supreme Court's decision to allow the ban to take effect means thousands of currently serving troops could be removed from the ranks.

The restrictions in the Pentagon memo are aimed at those who have been diagnosed with gender dysphoria -- of whom there were 4,240 serving in the military as of late last year, according to a senior defense official -- as well as those who have a history of the condition or exhibit symptoms of it.

Transgender Americans have faced a roller coaster of changing policies on military service in recent years, with Democratic administrations seeking to permit them to serve openly, while Trump has sought to keep them out of the ranks.

The US military lifted a ban on transgender troops in 2016, during Democrat Barack Obama's second term as president.

Under that policy, trans troops already serving were permitted to do so openly, and transgender recruits were set to start being accepted by July 1, 2017.

But the first Trump administration postponed that date to 2018 before deciding to reverse the policy entirely.

Trump's restrictions on transgender military service -- which underwent changes in response to various legal challenges -- eventually came into force in April 2019 following a protracted legal battle that went all the way to the nation's top court.

His Democratic successor Joe Biden moved to reverse the restrictions just days after he took office in 2021, but Trump was reelected last year after making clear he would again seek to target transgender rights.

Transgender issues have roiled US politics in recent years, as states controlled by Democrats and Republicans have moved in opposite directions on policies ranging from medical treatment to what books on the topic are allowed in public or school libraries.
India launches strikes on Pakistan, Islamabad vows retaliation



Muzaffarabad, Pakistan, May 6 (AFP) May 06, 2025



India fired missiles at Pakistani territory early Wednesday in a major escalation of tensions between the nuclear-armed rivals, with Islamabad vowing retaliation.

The Indian government said it had attacked nine sites, describing them as "precision strikes at terrorist camps" in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, days after it blamed Islamabad for a deadly attack on the Indian-administered side of the disputed region.

Three civilians had been wounded in the strikes, which hit at least five locations, Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif told AFP.

"We have confirmed reports of three civilians killed that includes one child," Asif said.

Earlier, Pakistan's military said that the five locations included three in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and two -- Bahawalpur and Muridke -- in the country's most populous province of Punjab.

AFP correspondents in Pakistani-run Kashmir and Punjab heard several loud explosions.

"We will retaliate at the time of our choosing," said Pakistani military spokesman Lieutenant-General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, calling the strikes a "heinous provocation".

Shortly after, India accused Pakistan of firing artillery across the Line of Control, the de facto border in Kashmir, which could be heard by AFP correspondents in the region.

India had been widely expected to respond militarily to the April 22 attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir last month by gunmen it said were from Pakistani group Lashkar-e-Taiba, a UN-designated terrorist organisation.

That assault left 26 people dead, mainly Hindu men, in the tourist hotspot of Pahalgam. No group has claimed responsibility.

New Delhi has blamed Islamabad for backing the attack, sparking a series of heated threats and diplomatic tit-for-tat measures.

Pakistan rejects the accusations, and the two sides have exchanged nightly gunfire since April 24 along the de facto border in Kashmir, the militarised Line of Control, according to the Indian army.

Wednesday's missile strikes are a dangerous heightening of friction between the South Asian neighbours, who have fought multiple wars since they gained independence from the British in 1947.

For days the international community has piled pressure on Pakistan and India to step back from the brink of war.

Asked about the strikes, US President Donald Trump told reporters in Washington he hopes the fighting "ends very quickly".



- Explosions near LoC -



The Indian army, in a video posted on its X account after Wednesday's strikes, said "justice is served", with New Delhi adding that its actions "have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature".

"No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted," it added. "India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution".

Indian fighter jets could be heard flying over Srinagar, the capital of Indian Kashmir.

Loud explosions could also be heard in the town of Poonch, only about 10 miles (16 kilometres) from the Line of Control.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier said India would "identify, track and punish every terrorist and their backer" who carried out the attack at Pahalgam last month.

Indian police have issued wanted posters for three suspects -- two Pakistanis and an Indian -- who they say belong to Lashkar-e-Taiba.

The Pakistani military said it launched two missile tests in recent days, including of a surface-to-surface missile with a range of 450 kilometres (280 miles) -- about the distance from the Pakistan border to New Delhi.

India was set to hold several civil defence drills Wednesday preparing people to "protect themselves in the event of a hostile attack".

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected in New Delhi on Wednesday, two days after talks in Islamabad with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Tehran has offered to mediate between the two nations, and Araghchi will be the first senior foreign diplomat to visit both countries since the April 22 attack sent relations plunging.

Rebels in Indian-administered Kashmir have waged an insurgency since 1989, seeking independence or a merger with Pakistan.

India regularly blames its neighbour for backing armed groups fighting its forces in Kashmir, a charge that Islamabad denies.



- 'Act of war' -



The strikes came just hours after Modi said that water flowing across India's borders would be stopped. Pakistan had warned that tampering with the rivers that flow from India into its territory would be an "act of war."

Modi did not mention Islamabad specifically, but his speech came after New Delhi suspended its part of the 65-year-old Indus Waters Treaty, which governs water critical to Pakistan for consumption and agriculture.

"India's water used to go outside, now it will flow for India," Modi said in a speech in New Delhi.

burs-pjm/mlm/st/aha
Trump hopes India-Pakistan clashes end 'very quickly'



Washington, May 6 (AFP) May 06, 2025



US President Donald Trump said Tuesday he hoped clashes between nuclear-armed India and Pakistan end "very quickly," after New Delhi's forces launched strikes and Islamabad vowed retaliation.

"It's a shame, we just heard about it," Trump said at the White House, after the Indian government said it had hit "terrorist camps" on its western neighbor's territory following a deadly attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir.

"I guess people knew something was going to happen based on the past. They've been fighting for many, many decades and centuries, actually, if you really think about it," he added.

India and Pakistan have fought three full-scale wars since gaining independence from the British in 1947. Both claim Kashmir in full but administer separate portions of the disputed region.

"I just hope it ends very quickly," said Trump.

India had been widely expected to respond militarily since gunmen shot dead 26 people in Indian-administered Kashmir, mostly Hindus.

New Delhi has blamed militants that it has said were from Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba, a UN-designated terrorist organization.

Pakistan's army said the Indian strikes targeted three sites in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and two in Punjab province, the country's most populous.

Islamabad said that three civilians, including a child, had been killed in Indian strikes.

The Indian strikes came just hours after the US State Department issued a fresh call for calm.

"We continue to urge Pakistan and India to work towards a responsible resolution that maintains long-term peace and regional stability in South Asia," State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce told reporters.

Her statement came after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned of stopping water from flowing across borders following the Kashmir attack.
India launches strikes on Pakistan, Islamabad vows to 'settle the score'



Muzaffarabad, Pakistan, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



India fired missiles at Pakistani territory early Wednesday, killing at least eight people, according to Pakistan, which said it had begun retaliating in a major escalation between the nuclear-armed rivals.

The Indian government said it had carried out "precision strikes at terrorist camps" at nine sites in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, days after it blamed Islamabad for a deadly attack on the Indian-run side of the disputed region.

The Indian army, in a video posted on X after the strikes, said "justice is served", with New Delhi adding that its actions "have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature".

Pakistan reported eight civilians -- including one child -- killed in the strikes, which hit at least six locations.

The country's Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif told AFP: "The retaliation has already started. We won't take long to settle the score." He accused Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi of launching the strikes to "shore up" his domestic popularity.

Earlier, Pakistan's military said three locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir had been hit along with two -- Bahawalpur and Muridke -- in the country's most populous province of Punjab.

AFP correspondents in Pakistani-run Kashmir and Punjab heard several loud explosions.

Shortly after, India accused Pakistan of firing artillery across the Line of Control (LoC), the de facto border in Kashmir, which could also be heard by AFP correspondents in the region.

India had been widely expected to respond militarily to the April 22 attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir by gunmen it said were from Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba, a UN-designated terrorist organisation.

That assault left 26 people dead, mainly Hindu men, in the tourist hotspot of Pahalgam. No group has claimed responsibility.

New Delhi has blamed Islamabad for backing the attack, sparking a series of heated threats and diplomatic tit-for-tat measures.

Pakistan rejects the accusations, and the two sides have exchanged nightly gunfire since April 24 along the LoC, according to the Indian army. Pakistan also said it has held two missile tests.



- 'Maximum restraint' -



Wednesday's strikes are a dangerous heightening of friction between the South Asian neighbours, who have fought multiple wars since they gained independence from the British in 1947.

For days the international community has piled pressure on Pakistan and India to step back from the brink of war.

"The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan," the spokesman for UN chief Antonio Guterres, Stephane Dujarric, said in a statement, adding that Guterres called for "maximum restraint."

Asked about the strikes, US President Donald Trump told reporters in Washington he hopes the fighting "ends very quickly".

India's embassy in Washington said New Delhi's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval had briefed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio after the strikes.

Rubio also spoke with Pakistan's national security advisor, Lt. General Asim Malik, a senior Pakistani military official told AFP.

"I am monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely," Rubio said on X, adding that he will "continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution".



- Explosions near LoC -



India's army said it had "demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution", adding that "no Pakistani military facilities have been targeted".

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, calling the Indian attack "unprovoked" and "cowardly", said the "heinous act of aggression will not go unpunished."

Indian fighter jets could be heard flying over Srinagar, the capital of Indian-administered Kashmir.

Loud explosions could also be heard in the town of Poonch, only about 10 miles (16 kilometres) from the LoC.

Rebels in Indian-administered Kashmir have waged an insurgency since 1989, seeking independence or a merger with Pakistan.

India regularly blames its neighbour for backing armed groups fighting its forces in Kashmir, a charge that Islamabad denies.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected in New Delhi on Wednesday, two days after a visit to Islamabad, as Tehran seeks to mediate.

India was also set to hold several civil defence drills Wednesday, while schools in Pakistan's Punjab were closed, local government officials said.

The strikes came just hours after Modi said that water flowing across India's borders would be stopped. Pakistan had warned that tampering with the rivers that flow from India into its territory would be an "act of war".

Modi did not mention Islamabad specifically, but his speech came after New Delhi suspended its part of the 65-year-old Indus Waters Treaty, which governs water critical to Pakistan for consumption and agriculture.

"India's water used to go outside, now it will flow for India," Modi said in a speech in New Delhi.

burs-st/tym/hmn
When flowers meet the milky way in NE China Pub Date:25-05-07 09:36 Source:Xinhua HARBIN, May 6 (Xinhua) -- As spring turns to summer, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province is witnessing a stunning natural scene. Mountains and fields burst with blooming wildflowers, while night skies glow with the Milky Way. Editor:Zheng Chen

Related News Payment transactions by visitors to China ... Over 4.8 bln parcels handled in China duri... Over 80 percent of firms listed on Beijing... Chinese company's expansion, upgrade proje...
Drone strike on Port Sudan navy base: army source



Port Sudan, Sudan, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



A drone attack targeted Sudan's biggest naval base on Wednesday, an army source told AFP, marking the fourth day the country's wartime capital has come under strikes.

"They (the drones) were met with anti-aircraft missiles," the source said on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak to the media.

An AFP correspondent reported a series of explosions early Wednesday and then a cloud of smoke coming from the direction of the Flamingo base, just north of the city.

War has raged since April 2023 between Sudan's regular army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, which the government has called a "proxy" of the United Arab Emirates.

Port Sudan on the Red Sea coast had been a safe haven city, hosting hundreds of thousands of displaced people and United Nations offices, until Sunday when drone strikes blamed on the RSF began.

Drones struck across Port Sudan on Tuesday, hitting the main port, the city's main power station and the country's last functioning international civilian airport.

Nearly 600 kilometres (373 miles) south, "three drones attempted to strike airport facilities" in the eastern city of Kassala, near the border with Eritrea.

Eyewitnesses told AFP they could hear explosions from anti-aircraft missiles west of the city, which has also come under repeated attacks this week.

Since it began, the war has killed tens of thousands, uprooted 13 million and created the world's largest hunger and displacement crises.

The RSF has not commented on the attacks this week on Port Sudan, about 650 kilometres from its nearest known positions on the outskirts of the capital Khartoum.

Wednesday's attack comes a day after Sudan cut ties with the UAE, accusing it of supplying weapons used by the RSF to strike Port Sudan and declaring the Gulf country an "aggressor" state.

The UAE has long denied supporting the RSF, despite reports from UN experts, US politicians and international organisations.

The attacks on Port Sudan have raised fears of disruptions to humanitarian aid deliveries in Sudan, where famine has already been declared in some areas and nearly 25 million people are suffering dire food insecurity.

Nearly all aid into the country flows through Port Sudan, which the UN on Tuesday called "a lifeline for humanitarian operations", warning of more "human suffering in what is already the world's largest humanitarian crisis".

According to experts, the RSF has increasingly relied on drones since losing territory -- including nearly all of Khartoum in March -- in order to signal its reach and obstruct the army's supply lines.

The war has effectively split Sudan in two, with the army controlling the centre, north and east while the RSF holds nearly all of Darfur and parts of the south.
China says 'concerned' by India strikes on Pakistan, urges restraint



Beijing, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



China on Wednesday expressed regret and concern over Indian strikes on Pakistan, urging both sides to show restraint in response to a major escalation between its nuclear-armed neighbours.

India and Pakistan exchanged heavy artillery along their contested frontier on Wednesday, after New Delhi launched missile strikes on its arch-rival.

Pakistan said Indian strikes had killed at least eight people, and India said Pakistani artillery fire had killed three civilians along the de facto border in contested Kashmir.

China, which shares land borders with both countries and is a close ally of Pakistan, said it expressed "regret over India's military action this morning" and said it was "concerned about the current developments".

"India and Pakistan are neighbours that cannot be moved apart, and they are also China's neighbours," a foreign ministry spokesperson said in a statement.

"China opposes all forms of terrorism," they said.

"We call on both India and Pakistan to prioritise peace and stability, remain calm and restrained and avoid taking actions that further complicate the situation," the spokesperson added.
India and Pakistan: a history of armed conflict



New Delhi, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



India and Pakistan exchanged heavy artillery along their contested frontier in Kashmir on Wednesday in a major escalation between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

The latest crisis erupted after New Delhi launched missile strikes on its arch-rival, with deaths subsequently reported on both sides.

New Delhi accuses Pakistan of backing the deadliest attack in years on civilians in Indian-administered Kashmir on April 22, in which 26 men were killed.

Islamabad rejects the charge.

The two sides have fought multiple conflicts -- ranging from skirmishes to all-out war -- since their bloody partition in 1947.

- 1947: Partition -



Two centuries of British rule ends on August 15, 1947 with the sub-continent divided into mainly Hindu India and Muslim-majority Pakistan.

The poorly prepared partition unleashes bloodshed that kills possibly more than a million people and displaces 15 million others.

Kashmir's monarch dithers on whether to submit to Indian or Pakistani rule.

After the suppression of an uprising against his rule, Pakistan-backed militants attack. He seeks India's help, precipitating an all-out war between the countries.

A UN-backed, 770-kilometre (480-mile) ceasefire line in January 1949 divides Kashmir.



- 1965: Kashmir -



Pakistan launches a second war in August 1965 when it invades India-administered Kashmir.

Thousands are killed before a September ceasefire brokered by the Soviet Union and the United States.



- 1971: Bangladesh -



Pakistan deploys troops in 1971 to suppress an independence movement in what is now Bangladesh, which it had governed since 1947 as East Pakistan.

An estimated three million people are killed in the nine-month conflict and millions flee into India.

India invades, leading to the creation of the independent nation of Bangladesh.



- 1989-90: Kashmir -



An uprising breaks out in Kashmir in 1989 as grievances at Indian rule boil over. Tens of thousands of soldiers, rebels and civilians are killed in the following decades.

India accuses Pakistan of funding the rebels and aiding their weapons training.

- 1999: Kargil -



Pakistan-backed militants seize Indian military posts in the icy heights of the Kargil mountains.

Pakistan yields after severe pressure from Washington, alarmed by intelligence reports showing Islamabad had deployed part of its nuclear arsenal nearer to the conflict. At least 1,000 people are killed over 10 weeks.



- 2019: Kashmir -



A suicide attack on a convoy of Indian security forces kills 40 in Pulwama.

India, which is busy with campaigning for general elections, sends fighter jets which carry out air strikes on Pakistani territory to target an alleged militant training camp.

One Indian jet is shot down over Pakistani-controlled territory, with the captured pilot safely released within days back to India.
India launches strikes on Pakistan, Islamabad vows to 'settle the score'



Muzaffarabad, Pakistan, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



India and Pakistan exchanged heavy artillery along their contested frontier on Wednesday, after New Delhi launched deadly missile strikes on its arch-rival in the worst violence between the nuclear-armed neighbours in two decades.

Islamabad reported 26 civilians killed by the Indian strikes and firing along the border, while New Delhi said at least eight were killed by Pakistani shelling.

India said it carried out "precision strikes at terrorist camps" at nine sites in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and in Punjab state, days after it blamed Islamabad for backing a deadly attack on the Indian-run side of the disputed region.

The Indian army said "justice is served", with New Delhi adding that its actions "have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature".

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif accused Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi of launching the strikes to "shore up" his domestic popularity, but said that Islamabad had struck back.

"The retaliation has already started", Asif told AFP. "We won't take long to settle the score."

Asif claimed five "enemy aircraft" were downed by Pakistan, without giving further details and after backtracking on an earlier statement that Indian soldiers had been captured.

An Indian senior security source, who asked not to be named, meanwhile said three Indian fighter jets crashed on Wednesday on home territory without giving a cause.

It was not immediately clear what happened to the pilots.

Wreckage of an Indian fighter jet was seen by an AFP photographer at Wuyan -- on the Indian controlled side of Kashmir.



- 'Shelling raining down' -



Islamabad said a three-year-old child was among eight civilians killed in the strikes.

In Muzaffarabad, the main city of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, troops cordoned off streets around a mosque Islamabad said was hit, with marks of explosions also visible on the walls of several homes.

Shortly after, India's army accused Pakistan of "indiscriminate" firing across the Line of Control (LoC), the de facto border in Kashmir, with bursts of flame as shells landed, AFP reporters saw.

"We woke up as we heard the sound of firing", Farooq, a man in the Indian town of Poonch, told the Press Trust of India news agency from his hospital bed, his head wrapped in a bandage. "I saw shelling raining down... two persons were wounded".

At least eight Indians were killed and 29 others wounded in the town, local revenue officer Azhar Majid told AFP from the town's hospital.

India had been widely expected to respond militarily to the April 22 attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir by gunmen it said were from Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba, a UN-designated terrorist organisation.

The assault in the tourist hotspot of Pahalgam left 26 people dead, mainly Hindu men.

No group has claimed responsibility but New Delhi has blamed Islamabad for backing the attack, sparking a series of heated threats and diplomatic tit-for-tat measures.

Pakistan rejects the accusations and called for independent probe.

The two sides have exchanged nightly gunfire since April 24 along the LoC, according to the Indian army. Pakistan also said it has held two missile tests.



- 'Maximum restraint' -



The violence is a dangerous escalation between the South Asian neighbours, who have fought multiple wars since they were carved out of the sub-continent at the end of British rule in 1947.

The assaults already exceed India's strikes in 2019, when New Delhi said it had hit "several militants" after a suicide bomber attacked an Indian security force convoy, killing 40.

"India's strike on Pakistan is of much greater scale than the one in 2019... Pakistan's response... has also exceeded the scale of 2019", US-based analyst Michael Kugelman said.

Diplomats have piled pressure on leaders to step back from the brink of war.

"The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan," the spokesman for UN chief Antonio Guterres, Stephane Dujarric, said in a statement.

US President Donald Trump told reporters in Washington he hoped that the fighting "ends very quickly".

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has spoken to top security officials in both New Delhi and Islamabad since the strikes and said he was monitoring the situation "closely".

India's army said it had "demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution", adding that "no Pakistani military facilities have been targeted".

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, calling the Indian attack "unprovoked" and "cowardly", said the "heinous act of aggression will not go unpunished."

Rebels in Indian-administered Kashmir have waged an insurgency since 1989, seeking independence or a merger with Pakistan.

India regularly blames its neighbour for backing armed groups fighting its forces in Kashmir, a charge that Islamabad denies.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected in New Delhi on Wednesday, two days after a visit to Islamabad, as Tehran seeks to mediate.

India was also set to hold several civil defence drills Wednesday, while schools in Pakistan Punjab and Kashmir were closed, local government officials said.

The strikes came just hours after Modi said that water flowing across India's borders would be stopped. Pakistan had warned that tampering with the rivers that flow from India into its territory would be an "act of war".

burs-pjm/ecl/hmn

X
Drone strike hits Port Sudan navy base: army source



Port Sudan, Sudan, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



A drone strike targeted Sudan's biggest naval base Wednesday, an army source told AFP, marking the fourth straight day the seat of the army-backed government has come under attack.

"They (the drones) were met with anti-aircraft missiles," the source said on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak to the media.

An AFP correspondent reported a series of explosions early Wednesday and then a cloud of smoke coming from the direction of the Flamingo Base, just north of the city.

War has raged since April 2023 between Sudan's regular armed forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, which the government has called a "proxy" of the United Arab Emirates.

Port Sudan on the Red Sea coast had been a safe haven, hosting hundreds of thousands of displaced people and United Nations offices, until Sunday when drone strikes blamed on the RSF began.

Drones struck across Port Sudan on Tuesday, hitting the main port, the city's power station and the country's last functioning international airport.

Nearly 600 kilometres (375 miles) south, "three drones attempted to strike airport facilities" in the army-held eastern city of Kassala, near the border with Eritrea, a security source said Wednesday.

Witnesses told AFP they heard explosions from anti-aircraft missiles west of the city, which has also come under repeated attack this week.

Nationwide, the war has killed tens of thousands of peoople and uprooted 13 million.



- Aid access -



The RSF has not directly commented on this week's attacks on Port Sudan, about 650 kilometres (400 miles) from its nearest known positions on the outskirts of greater Khartoum.

The strikes have raised fears of disruption to humanitarian aid across Sudan, where famine has already been declared in some areas and nearly 25 million people are suffering dire food insecurity.

UN relief chief Tom Fletcher said he was "very concerned by ongoing drone strikes on Port Sudan, a hub for our humanitarian operations and key entry point for aid".

Nearly all aid into Sudan flows through the port city, which the United Nations has called "a lifeline for humanitarian operations".

It has warned of more "human suffering in what is already the world's largest humanitarian crisis".

Wednesday's attack comes a day after Sudan cut ties with the UAE, accusing it of supplying weapons used by the RSF to strike Port Sudan and declaring the Gulf country an "aggressor" state.

The UAE has long denied supporting the RSF, despite reports from UN experts, US politicians and international organisations.

The long-distance drone campaign comes after the RSF lost control of nearly all of greater Khartoum in March, after holding it virtually since the start of the war.

The war has effectively split Sudan in two, with the army controlling the centre, north and east while the RSF holds nearly all of Darfur in the west and parts of the south.
Airlines cancel, reroute flights after India-Pakistan clashes



Bangkok, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



Clashes between nuclear-armed India and Pakistan on Wednesday sent airlines scrambling to cancel, divert or reroute flights.

The neighbours and longtime rivals exchanged heavy artillery fire along their contested frontier after India launched missile strikes in retaliation for a deadly terror attack last month.

Here is a round-up of what airlines are doing to avoid flying over the conflict zone.

- South Korea -

Korean Air has begun rerouting its flights from Seoul Incheon to Dubai, using a southern route that passes over Myanmar, Bangladesh and India, instead of the previous path through Pakistani airspace.

"We are currently monitoring the situation for further changes," a Korean Air official told AFP.



- Taiwan -

Taiwan's China Airlines said several flights have been diverted or cancelled.

Two flights from Taipei to Frankfurt and Amsterdam "made a technical diversion to Bangkok" before returning to the Taiwanese capital.

Three flights from Taipei to Prague, Rome and London were cancelled on Tuesday and Wednesday.

"China Airlines continues to monitor the situation and will adjust flight schedules as needed," it said.

EVA Air said it will adjust flights to and from Europe "based on actual conditions to avoid affected airspace to ensure the safety of crew members and passengers".

A flight from Vienna to Bangkok will return to the Austrian capital while a flight from Taipei to Milan will be diverted to Vienna for refuelling and then continue to the Italian city, the airline said in a statement.



- Malaysia -

Malaysia Airlines rerouted two flights from Kuala Lumpur -- one to London Heathrow and one to Paris Charles de Gaulle. They stopped in Doha before continuing their journeys.

The carrier also suspended all flights to and from India's Amritsar until May 9.



- Thailand -

Thai Airways said it was rerouting flights to destinations in Europe and South Asia from 5:00 am on Wednesday (2200 GMT Tuesday), warning of possible delays.



- Sri Lanka -

Sri Lankan Airlines said its flights were unaffected and there is no change to their four weekly flights to Pakistan's Lahore and Karachi.

burs-pdw/pst

KOREAN AIR LINES

CHINA AIRLINES

Malaysia Airlines
France urges 'restraint' in India, Pakistan clashes



Paris, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



France on Wednesday called on India and Pakistan to show restraint as the worst violence in two decades flared between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

"We understand India's desire to protect itself against the scourge of terrorism, but we obviously call on both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint to avoid escalation and, of course, to protect civilians," Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, said in an interview on TF1 television.

"I don't think anyone has an interest in a lasting confrontation between India and Pakistan," he said, adding that he would be speaking with his counterparts in India and Pakistan.

Barrot spoke after New Delhi launched deadly missile strikes on its arch-rival, days after it blamed Islamabad for backing a deadly attack on the Indian-run side of the disputed region of Kashmir.
India-Pakistan clashes: what we know



Islamabad, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



India and Pakistan have exchanged missile and artillery strikes in a major escalation of hostilities between the nuclear-armed neighbours after a deadly attack in disputed Kashmir.

New Delhi blames Islamabad for the militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir two weeks ago that left 26 civilians dead.

The two sides exchanged threats and diplomatic measures, culminating in Indian missile strikes early on Wednesday and a swift vow from Pakistan to "settle the score".

Here is what we know about the crisis, and the background behind it.



- What is the latest? -



India launched what it called "precision strikes at terrorist camps" in Pakistan-administered Kashmir in the early hours of Wednesday.

Pakistan says 26 civilians were killed in the strikes on at least six locations and firing along the border.

The targets include locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir as well as Bahawalpur and Muridke, cities in the country's most populous province of Punjab, bordering India.

Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif told AFP the retaliation had "already started", after the military earlier said it would respond "at a time and place of its own choosing".

India accused Pakistan of firing artillery across the Line of Control (LoC), the de facto border in Kashmir, killing three civilians.



- What triggered the crisis? -



India was incensed by an April 22 militant attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir, which left 26 people dead, mainly Hindu men, in the tourist hotspot of Pahalgam.

Nobody has claimed the attack but New Delhi said the gunmen were from Pakistan-based militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba, a UN-designated terror organisation with a history of carrying out attacks on Indian soil.

The group has long been rumoured to have murky links to the Pakistani military establishment -- which Islamabad denies.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused Pakistan of supporting "cross-border terrorism" and gave his military "complete operational freedom" to respond.

The two sides expelled diplomats and last week Pakistan said it had "credible intelligence" India was preparing a military strike.



- Who controls Kashmir? -



The scenic Himalayan region has been a major bone of contention between India and Pakistan since the two countries were created when British colonial rule ended in 1947.

Kashmir's ruler dithered on whether to join Hindu-majority India or Muslim-majority Pakistan, leading to the first war between the two neighbours.

Further full-blown wars between India and Pakistan over Kashmir followed in 1965 and 1999, punctuated by regular uprisings and border skirmishes in the years between and since.

Both sides control part of Kashmir but claim the territory in full, and keep troops stationed to watch over the LoC.

The two sides came close to another war in 2019 after 41 Indian paramilitaries were killed in a suicide attack blamed on a Pakistani militant group.



- How has the world reacted? -



Both India and Pakistan boast considerable arsenals of atomic weapons and Kashmir has long been identified as one of the world's most dangerous flashpoints for potential nuclear war.

As a result, there have been pleas for calm and restraint from around the world since the latest crisis erupted with the April 22 attack.

UN chief Antonio Guterres called for "maximum restraint", his spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.

"The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan," Dujarric said.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has spoken with his counterparts from India and Pakistan, encouraging both sides to engage in discussions.

China, a neighbour to both countries and a close ally of Pakistan, expressed "regret over India's military action this morning" and said it was "concerned about the current developments", in a statement from a foreign ministry spokesperson.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected in New Delhi on Wednesday, two days after a visit to Islamabad, as Tehran seeks to mediate.

burs-pdw/sco
Dozens killed as India, Pakistan clash in worst violence in decades



Muzaffarabad, Pakistan, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



India and Pakistan exchanged heavy artillery fire along their contested frontier on Wednesday after New Delhi launched deadly missile strikes on its arch-rival, in the worst violence between the nuclear-armed neighbours in two decades.

At least 38 deaths were reported, with Islamabad saying 26 civilians were killed by the Indian strikes and firing along the border, and New Delhi adding at least 12 dead from Pakistani shelling.

The fighting came two weeks after New Delhi blamed Islamabad for backing an attack on the Indian-run side of disputed Kashmir.

The South Asian neighbours have fought multiple wars over the divided territory since they were carved out of the sub-continent at the end of British rule in 1947.

The latest violence exceeds India's strikes in 2019, when New Delhi said it had hit "several militants" after a suicide bomber attacked an Indian security force convoy, killing 40.

The Indian army said "justice is served", reporting nine "terrorist camps" had been destroyed, with New Delhi adding that its actions "have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature".

Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif accused Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi of launching the strikes to "shore up" his domestic popularity, adding that Islamabad "won't take long to settle the score".

Military spokesman Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said five Indian jets had been downed across the border.

An Indian senior security source, who asked not to be named, said three of its fighter jets had crashed on home territory.

Pakistan said a hydropower plant in Kashmir was also targeted by India, damaging a dam structure, after India threatened to stop the flow of water on its side of the border.

Pakistan had earlier warned that tampering with the rivers that flow into its territory would be an "act of war".

- Calls for calm -



World leaders have issued urgent calls for de-escalation, while Pakistan's National Security Committee, which convened an emergency meeting led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and attended by Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, called on the international community to hold India "accountable".

In Muzaffarabad, the main city of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, troops cordoned off streets around a mosque Islamabad said was struck, with blast marks visible on the walls of several nearby homes.

The 70-year caretaker of the mosque was killed, and buried later Wednesday at a funeral attended by around 600 people, an AFP journalist saw.

"There were terrible sounds during the night, there was panic among everyone," said Muhammad Salman, who lives close to the mosque.

"We are moving to a safer place... we are homeless now," added 24-year-old Tariq Mir who was hit in the leg by shrapnel.

United Nations military observers arrived on Wednesday afternoon to inspect the site, which was blown out on one side.

Residents had begun collecting damaged copies of the Koran among concrete, wood, and iron debris scattered across the grounds.

Pakistan said 21 civilians were killed in the strikes -- including four children -- while five were killed by gunfire at the border.

At least 12 people were killed and 29 others wounded in Poonch in Indian-administered Kashmir, local official Azhar Majid told AFP.

"We woke up as we heard the sound of firing", Farooq, a man in the Indian town of Poonch, told the Press Trust of India news agency from his hospital bed, his head wrapped in bandage.

"I saw shelling raining down."

India had been widely expected to respond militarily to the April 22 attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir by gunmen it said were from Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba, a UN-designated terrorist organisation.

The assault in the tourist hotspot of Pahalgam killed 26 people, mainly Hindu men.

New Delhi has blamed Islamabad for backing the attack, sparking a series of heated threats and diplomatic tit-for-tat measures.

Pakistan rejects the accusations and called for an independent probe, and on Wednesday Prime Minister Sharif labelled India's strikes a "heinous act of aggression" that would "not go unpunished".

The two sides have exchanged gunfire nightly since April 24 along the LoC, according to the Indian army. Pakistan also said it has conducted two missile tests.



- 'Maximum restraint' -



"Escalation between India and Pakistan has already reached a larger scale than during the last major crisis in 2019, with potentially dire consequences", International Crisis Group analyst Praveen Donthi said.

Diplomats have piled pressure on leaders to step back.

"The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan," the spokesman for UN chief Antonio Guterres, Stephane Dujarric, said in a statement.

US President Donald Trump told reporters in Washington he hoped that the fighting "ends very quickly".

Concern poured in, including from China -- a mutual neighbour of both nations -- as well as from Britain, France and Russia, Germany and Turkey, while airlines have cancelled, diverted or rerouted flights.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected in New Delhi on Wednesday, two days after a visit to Islamabad, as Tehran seeks to mediate.

Rebels in Indian-administered Kashmir have waged an insurgency since 1989, seeking independence or a merger with Pakistan.

India regularly blames its neighbour for backing armed groups fighting its forces in Kashmir, a charge that Islamabad denies.

burs-pjm/ecl/fox
Airlines cancel, reroute flights after India-Pakistan clashes



Bangkok, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



Clashes between nuclear-armed India and Pakistan on Wednesday sent airlines scrambling to cancel, divert or reroute flights.

The neighbours and longtime rivals exchanged heavy artillery fire along their contested frontier after India launched missile strikes in retaliation for a deadly attack last month.

Here is a round-up of what airlines are doing to avoid flying over the conflict zone.



- South Korea -

Korean Air has begun rerouting its flights from Seoul Incheon to Dubai, using a southern route that passes over Myanmar, Bangladesh and India, instead of the previous path through Pakistani airspace.

"We are currently monitoring the situation for further changes," a Korean Air official told AFP.



- Taiwan -

Taiwan's China Airlines said several flights have been diverted or cancelled.

Two flights from Taipei to Frankfurt and Amsterdam "made a technical diversion to Bangkok" before returning to the Taiwanese capital.

Three flights from Taipei to Prague, Rome and London were cancelled on Tuesday and Wednesday.

"China Airlines continues to monitor the situation and will adjust flight schedules as needed," it said.

EVA Air said it will adjust flights to and from Europe "based on actual conditions to avoid affected airspace to ensure the safety of crew members and passengers".

A flight from Vienna to Bangkok will return to the Austrian capital while a flight from Taipei to Milan will be diverted to Vienna for refuelling and then continue to the Italian city, the airline said in a statement.



- Russia -

Russian national carrier Aeroflot said all its flights from Moscow to and from India, Thailand, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and the Seychelles would be rerouted.



- Singapore -

Singapore Airlines said its flights have been rerouted to avoid Pakistani airspace.



- Malaysia -

Malaysia Airlines rerouted two flights from Kuala Lumpur -- one to London Heathrow and one to Paris Charles de Gaulle. They stopped in Doha before continuing their journeys.

The carrier also suspended all flights to and from India's Amritsar until May 9.



- Thailand -

Thai Airways said it was rerouting flights to destinations in Europe and South Asia from 5:00 am on Wednesday (2200 GMT Tuesday) to avoid Pakistani airspace, warning of possible delays.

At least eight flights to European cities were affected, the airline said, while a return flight scheduled to go from Bangkok to Islamabad and back again on Wednesday was cancelled.



- France -

Air France said its planes would avoid flying over Pakistan until further notice and warned this would mean longer flight times for services to Delhi, Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City.



- Sri Lanka -

Sri Lankan Airlines said its flights were unaffected and there is no change to its four weekly flights to Pakistan's Lahore and Karachi.

burs-pdw/mtp



KOREAN AIR LINES

CHINA AIRLINES

AEROFLOT - RUSSIAN AIRLINES

Singapore Airlines

Malaysia Airlines

THAI AIRWAYS INTERNATIONAL
Finnish fighter jet crashes in Arctic town, pilot ejected



Rovaniemi, Finland, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



A Finnish F/A-18 Hornet fighter jet crashed Wednesday near the Rovaniemi airport in Finland's Arctic north, but the pilot was rescued after ejecting, the armed forces said.

No details were available about the cause of the crash, which occurred "in the Rovaniemi airport area" around 11:00 am (0800 GMT), the military said.

"The pilot, who escaped in an ejection seat, has been taken to a health facility for further examination. There are no injuries on the ground related to the plane crash," it said in a post on X.

Dark smoke could be seen rising from the scene and several emergency vehicles were dispatched to the area.

Witness Mika Lehtiniemi saw the fighter jet in the sky just before the crash as he drove along a nearby bridge.

He told Finnish broadcaster YLE it was flying unusually low over the Syvasenvaara residential area before it appeared to stall, its nose turning upwards.

"The plane stood up very strongly and turned on its back, as it were. Then a few seconds passed and I saw a cloud of black smoke. I didn't see the fire, (just) the black horrible smoke," he said.

Airport operator Finavia told AFP it did not expect civilian flights to be affected by the accident for the time being, with the next flight not expected for several hours.

Police were cordoning off the area to make way for rescue operations, said police inspector Jouni Koivunen.

"An investigation will be launched together with the Air Force once those rescue operations have been completed," he told AFP.

A Nordic defence ministers' meeting was taking place in Rovaniemi on Wednesday. The ministers had been due to observe training exercises, but that was cancelled after the accident.

The Finnish air force's fleet of F/A-18 Hornets were delivered by Boeing between 1995 and 2000 and are due to be decommissioned by 2030, replaced by F-35s from rival US aerospace giant Lockheed Martin.

bur-po/jhb

BOEING
Pakistan's Supreme Court allows civilians to be tried by military



Islamabad, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



Pakistan's Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday that civilians could be tried in military courts, overturning an earlier ruling by the apex court.

More than 100 civilians were tried in military courts after riots erupted in support of ex-prime minister Imran Khan when he was arrested in 2023.

The Supreme Court had earlier ruled that it was unconstitutional, but a new judgement on Wednesday upheld an appeal by the defence ministry.

The government said 39 military installations in all four provinces of the country were attacked during the riots.

Some convicts have received sentences of up to 10 years in prison.

Khan remains in jail accused of graft, after several other convictions that kept him behind bars during last year's election were overturned.

"The purpose of military law is to maintain discipline within the armed forces. It was never designed to be applied to civilians," a spokesman for Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party.
France, Germany say to cooperate more closely on defence



Paris, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



French President Emmanuel Macron and Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz vowed Wednesday to ramp up security cooperation in the face of Russian threats, as the new German leader visited Paris on his first trip abroad.

Europe is seeking to bolster its defences amid Moscow's invasion of Ukraine and doubts over US security commitments to Europe under President Donald Trump, though Merz insisted that any peace deal in Ukraine required an American commitment.

"We will set up a French-German defence and security council to meet regularly to bring operational responses to our common strategic challenges,' Macron said at their joint press conference.

Merz, who became chancellor on Tuesday, is a committed European, transatlanticist and Ukraine supporter who has pledged to restore Germany's role on the world stage after half a year of paralysis.

"We will take joint measures to further enhance Europe's security and defence capabilities," Merz said, before heading to Poland later in the day.

Berlin, like other European capitals, has been watching nervously as Trump seeks to push Volodymyr Zelensky and Vladimir Putin into a quick agreement on ending the war, now in its fourth year.

US-led mediation efforts have failed to stop the conflict, and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio last month threatened to pull out of talks if there was not progress.

Merz said the conflict in Ukraine could not end without the involvement of the United States.

"We cannot end this war in Ukraine without a continued involvement of the United States of America, this is not something that Europeans can substitute for," he said.



- 'We need the Americans' -



He said any ceasefire and security guarantees for Ukraine would also require US engagement.

France and Britain have been spearheading discussions among a "coalition of the willing" of 30 countries on the potential deployment of troops to secure any ceasefire.

But, Merz said, "at the same time we are aware that we will continue to need the Americans".

"We want the Americans to remain onboard, and to meet their responsibilities within NATO and towards Ukraine," he said.

"President Trump has our full support when it comes to bringing about an end to the war," Merz added.

He said European countries were ready to participate in any future monitoring of a ceasefire "under the leadership, and with the participation of, the United States".

Merz also said he wanted to discuss nuclear "deterrence" on the European continent with France and Britain, Europe's only nuclear powers other than Russia.

"We will give our respective ministers the mandate to begin this discussion," Merz said, adding that any such arrangement would be "complementary to what we already have with our American partners within NATO".

Macron said that strengthening "the European pillar of NATO" did not weaken the alliance.

"It is perfectly natural that all issues should be discussed, including nuclear deterrence, given our history and our specific characteristics," he said.



- Putin 'finally serious?' -



Macron also said he doubted Putin would respect a three-day truce in Ukraine that he ordered to start at midnight Wednesday, and wondered if the Russian leader was "serious" about a durable peace.

"Beyond the three days promised, which will undoubtedly not be respected, like the previous ones, is the Russian president finally serious?" Macron said.

"Will he finally decide to keep his word, especially the promises he made in his discussions with the US administration? That is what matters to us."

Ukraine has dismissed the three-day ceasefire as a "game" designed to protect its World War II commemoration parade in Moscow rather than a genuine peace measure.

The Kremlin was forced Wednesday to say it was taking "all necessary measures" to ensure the safety of foreign leaders set to attend its flagship May 9 parade after a wave of Ukrainian drone attacks closed airports across the country, disrupting hundreds of flights.

Asked on Tuesday how Germany could seek to influence talks on a possible peace deal in the Ukraine war, Merz said there was a "proven format" of Berlin working with France and Britain.

Merz said he would "consult intensively" with France and Britain, adding that "if we can include the Poles, then it will be even better".
French army hopes for combat-ready robots by 2040



Beynes, France, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



France's armed forces are on schedule to develop battle-ready robots by 2040, according to participants in a test bringing together the military with engineers, researchers and defence contractors.

"We hope to have something fairly evolved within three years, with the first ground robot capabilities ready to equip our forces," said the army's commander of future combat, General Bruno Baratz.

At the recent competition event over several weeks -- the third such exercise since the armed forces set the 2040 target four years ago -- robots fitted with legs, wheels, and treads navigated obstacles and evaded traps at a base west of Paris to test their ability to hold ground against enemy forces.

From surveillance to mine clearing, robots are "already very useful for protecting our units", said General Tony Maffeis, the head of the army's technical branch, during the Collaboration-Man-Machine (CoHoMa) challenge.

"Now we need to prove they can be more effective when they come into contact with an adversary," he said.

"The robot must facilitate combat, not hold it back," Maffeis added, underscoring the challenges that still stand in the way of deploying robots into the field - especially when it comes to navigating rough terrain.

A competition like this "allows us to get out of the lab and tackle a realistic mission," said Baptiste Lepelletier, one of the participants.

-Robotics 'booming' in Ukraine -



The French army has explored the use of ground robots since 2021, but the war in Ukraine, where drones -- cheaper and more abundant -- are reshaping warfare, has enormously accelerated their evolution.

"Ground robotics is booming in Ukraine, but it's still complex and less developed, so it's important to explore what practical uses they could have," said army chief of staff General Pierre Schill.

One problem is that they cannot operate effectively without aerial drones to guide them.

French defence firm Thales brought one robot that features a launch pad for a drone that scouts for obstacles and maps a route.

The military said it has already incorporated some developments from two previous CoHoMa challenges but sees even bigger changes in the next few years.

But before they are used in combat, the first applications will be in logistics, with drone convoys or robotic mules carrying gear.

mra-ekf/jh/rlp
Kremlin says taking 'all measures' to protect May 9 parade



Moscow, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



The Kremlin insisted Wednesday it was taking "all necessary measures" to ensure the safety of foreign leaders set to attend its flagship May 9 parade after a wave of Ukrainian drone attacks closed airports in several cities, disrupting hundreds of flights.

Moscow and Kyiv traded a barrage of drone attacks ahead of the parade -- which has become a key event during Vladimir Putin's 25 years in power -- as US talks pushing for an end to the conflict appeared stalled.

US Vice President JD Vance called Wednesday on the two sides to enter direct talks. "We think it's probably impossible for us to mediate this entirely without at least some direct negotiation between the two," he said.

Moscow will hold the Victory Day event on Red Square to mark 80 years of the defeat of Nazi Germany, an anniversary that comes more than three years into its Ukraine offensive.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said a Russian attack had killed a mother and her son in Kyiv on Wednesday.

Russia fired 187 drones and five ballistic missiles at Ukraine between late Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon, said Kyiv's air force.

Russia said Ukraine had launched a barrage of drones at Moscow and other cities in western Russia, forcing airports to halt traffic with 60,000 people seeing their flights disrupted.



- 'All necessary measures' -



The attacks come with foreign leaders such as China's Xi Jinping due to arrive in the Russian capital for the WWII celebrations.

"Our military and special services are taking all necessary measures to ensure that the celebration of the great victory takes place in a calm, stable and peaceful atmosphere," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.

He added that the authorities were jamming the internet because of a threat from Kyiv, which has hit Russian cities with drones throughout Moscow's offensive.

The Kremlin's forces occupy a fifth of Ukraine and this spring hit the country with a string of deadly attacks on civilian areas.

"We need to take into account that dangerous neighbourhood that we have," Peskov said, referring to Ukraine.

"As long as guests are here, until May 10, we need to be ready for restrictions," he added, calling on Muscovites to be understanding.



- 'Nothing scares us' -



Russians from outside Moscow visiting the heavily policed capital for the parade appeared unfazed.

"We are from Rostov-on-Don. Nothing scares us," said 22-year-old student Valeria Pavlova. The southern city serves as a command and logistics hub for the Ukraine offensive and has regularly been targeted.

"It's much calmer here," she added.

But scenes at airports in Moscow, Saint Petersburg and other cities were more chaotic.

Kyiv's drone attacks disrupted some 350 flights Tuesday and Wednesday, Russia's Association of Tour Operators said. Social media videos showed people sleeping on the floor and airports with rows of over a dozen planes queueing on the tarmac.

Ukraine's airspace has been forced to close since Russia launched its offensive in February 2022.

Putin has ordered a three-day ceasefire in Ukraine starting at midnight Wednesday, which Ukraine has dismissed as a "game" designed to protect his parade rather than a genuine peace measure.

Kyiv has instead called for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, something Putin previously rejected.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Wednesday that Russia would "undoubtedly" not respect its own order to halt fighting and questioned if the Russian leader was "serious" about a durable peace.



- Foreign leaders -



Hours before Putin's order was set to come into effect, Moscow unleashed a barrage of drone attacks across Ukraine and Zelensky called for more pressure on Russia to end its offensive.

The Kremlin said Putin's order remained in force but that Russia would retaliate to any attacks.

Russia's army, meanwhile, claimed the capture of a small village in the eastern Donetsk region of Ukraine.

Putin, who has been largely isolated by the West since launching his offensive, is due to meet visiting leaders throughout Wednesday.

He was due to sign a strategic partnership treaty with Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro -- Russia's longtime partner -- and hold talks with the leaders of Cuba, Mongolia and the Republic of the Congo on Wednesday.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico are also among the 29 foreign leaders set to attend. Fico, the only EU leader visiting, has defied Brussels by travelling to Moscow for the parade.

And Chinese troops are among some of the foreign soldiers set to march during the May 9 parade, despite a warning from Kyiv not to do so.
Dozens killed as India, Pakistan clash in worst violence in decades



Muzaffarabad, Pakistan, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



India and Pakistan exchanged heavy artillery fire along their contested frontier on Wednesday after New Delhi launched deadly missile strikes on its arch-rival, in the worst violence between the nuclear-armed neighbours in two decades.

At least 38 deaths were reported, with Islamabad saying 26 civilians were killed by the Indian strikes and firing along the border, and New Delhi adding at least 12 dead from Pakistani shelling.

The fighting came two weeks after New Delhi blamed Islamabad for backing an attack on the Indian-run side of disputed Kashmir, which Pakistan denied.

The South Asian neighbours have fought multiple wars over the divided territory since they were carved out of the sub-continent at the end of British rule in 1947.

The Indian army said "justice is served", reporting nine "terrorist camps" had been destroyed, with New Delhi adding that its actions "have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature".

Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif accused Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi of launching the strikes to "shore up" his domestic popularity, adding that Islamabad "won't take long to settle the score".

Pakistan military spokesman Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said five Indian jets had been downed across the border overnight.

An Indian senior security source, who asked not to be named, said three of its fighter jets had crashed on home territory.



- Children among the dead -



The largest Indian strike was on an Islamic seminary near the Punjabi city of Bahawalpur, killing 13 people according to the Pakistan military.

A government health and education complex in Muridke, 30 kilometres from Lahore, was blown apart, along with a mosque in Muzaffarabad -- the main city of Pakistan-administered Kashmir -- killing its caretaker.

Four children were among those killed in Wednesday's attacks, according to the Pakistan military.

Pakistan also said a hydropower plant in Kashmir was targeted by India, damaging a dam structure, after India threatened to stop the flow of water on its side of the border.

Pakistan had earlier warned that tampering with the rivers that flow into its territory would be an "act of war".

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the overnight operation was New Delhi's "right to respond" following the attack on tourists in Pahalgam in Kashmir last month.

Pakistan had denied any involvement in the Pahalgam assault and called for an independent probe.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif labelled India's strikes a "heinous act of aggression" that would "not go unpunished" and his National Security Committee called on the international community to hold India "accountable".



-'Terrible sounds in the night' -



In Muzaffarabad, United Nations military observers arrived to inspect a mosque that Islamabad said was struck by India.

"There were terrible sounds during the night, there was panic among everyone," said Muhammad Salman, who lives close to the mosque.

"We are moving to a safer place... we are homeless now," added 24-year-old Tariq Mir who was hit in the leg by shrapnel.

Residents collected damaged copies of the Koran from among concrete, wood, and iron debris scattered across the grounds.

In Indian-held Kashmir, residents fled in panic from the Pakistan shelling.

"There was firing from Pakistan, which damaged the houses and injured many," said Wasim Ahmed, 29, from Salamabad village.

"They were taken to hospitals in Uri and Baramulla towns. There has been extensive damage here, everything is destroyed, and people are fleeing the area."



- 'Maximum restraint' -



India had been widely expected to respond militarily to the Pahalgam attack on April 22 that killed 26 people, mainly Hindu men, which it blamed on Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba, a UN-designated terrorist organisation.

The two nations have traded days of threats and tit-for-tat diplomatic measures, while Pakistan has conducted two missile tests.

The Indian army has reported nightly gunfire along the heaviliy militarised Line of Control that separates the region since April 24.

"Escalation between India and Pakistan has already reached a larger scale than during the last major crisis in 2019, with potentially dire consequences", International Crisis Group analyst Praveen Donthi said.

Diplomats have piled pressure on leaders to step back.

"The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan," the spokesman for UN chief Antonio Guterres, Stephane Dujarric, said in a statement.

US President Donald Trump told reporters in Washington he hoped that the fighting "ends very quickly".

Concern poured in, including from China -- a mutual neighbour of both nations -- as well as from the EU, Britain, France, Russia, Germany and Turkey, while airlines have cancelled, diverted or rerouted flights.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected in New Delhi on Wednesday, two days after a visit to Islamabad, as Tehran seeks to mediate.

Rebels in Indian-administered Kashmir have waged an insurgency since 1989, seeking independence or a merger with Pakistan.

India regularly blames its neighbour for backing armed groups fighting its forces in Kashmir, a charge that Islamabad denies.

burs-pjm/ecl/fox
Finnish fighter jet crashes in Arctic town, pilot ejected



Rovaniemi, Finland, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



A Finnish F/A-18 Hornet fighter jet crashed Wednesday near the Rovaniemi airport in Finland's Arctic north, but the pilot was rescued after ejecting, the armed forces said.

The crash occurred "in the Rovaniemi airport area" around 11:00 am (0800 GMT), the military said in a statement.

"The aircraft crashed during a rehearsal for an airshow," Timo Herranen, commander of the Finnish Air Force, told AFP.

Herranen said "the pilot luckily was able to eject from the aircraft" and had only sustained "mild injuries".

Herranen did not wish to comment on a possible reason for the accident "at this stage" and said an investigation was underway.

According to the military, there were "no injuries on the ground".

Dark smoke could be seen rising from the scene and several emergency vehicles were dispatched to the area.

Witness Mika Lehtiniemi saw the fighter jet in the sky just before the crash as he drove along a nearby bridge.

He told Finnish broadcaster YLE it was flying unusually low over the Syvasenvaara residential area before it appeared to stall, its nose turning upwards.

"The plane stood up very strongly and turned on its back, as it were. Then a few seconds passed and I saw a cloud of black smoke. I didn't see the fire, (just) the black horrible smoke," he said.

Airport operator Finavia told AFP it did not expect civilian flights to be affected by the accident for the time being, with the next flight not expected for several hours.

A Nordic defence ministers' meeting was taking place in Rovaniemi on Wednesday. The ministers were watching the exercises at the time, but were in a safe area far away from where the accident occurred.

"We did not see the accident, but we were informed immediately," Finnish Defence Minister Antti Hakkanen said in a post to X.

The Finnish air force's fleet of F/A-18 Hornets were delivered by Boeing between 1995 and 2000 and are due to be decommissioned by 2030, replaced by F-35s from rival US aerospace giant Lockheed Martin.

bur-jll/djt/giv

BOEING
US VP says Iran nuclear talks on 'right pathway'



Washington, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



US Vice President JD Vance said Wednesday that talks on Iran's nuclear program are heading in the right direction, and that Tehran can have civil nuclear power but not enrichment that can lead to atomic weapons.

"We're on the right pathway," Vance told the Munich Leaders Meeting in Washington.

"We don't care if people want nuclear power. We're fine with that, but you can't have the kind of enrichment program that allows you to get to a nuclear weapon, and that's where we draw the line," he said.

Asked later Wednesday if Iran can maintain an enrichment program as long as it does not lead to a weapon, US President Donald Trump said that remained an open question.

"We haven't made that decision yet. We will, but we haven't made that decision yet," Trump said at the White House.

Iran and the United States have engaged in nuclear talks since April 12, their highest-level contact since Washington withdrew from a landmark deal with Tehran in 2018, during Trump's first term as US president.

A fourth round of talks initially scheduled for May 3 was postponed, mediator Oman said, citing "logistical reasons."

The United States and other Western countries have long accused Iran of pursuing nuclear weapons -- a claim Tehran denies, insisting that its atomic program is solely for civilian purposes.
Dozens killed as India, Pakistan clash in worst violence in decades



Muzaffarabad, Pakistan, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



India and Pakistan exchanged heavy artillery fire along their contested frontier Wednesday after New Delhi launched deadly missile strikes on its arch-rival, in the worst violence between the nuclear-armed neighbours in two decades.

At least 43 deaths were reported, with Islamabad saying 31 civilians were killed by the Indian strikes and firing along the border, and New Delhi adding at least 12 dead from Pakistani shelling.

The fighting came two weeks after New Delhi blamed Islamabad for backing an attack on the Indian-run side of disputed Kashmir, which Pakistan denied.

The South Asian neighbours have fought multiple wars over the divided territory since they were carved out of the sub-continent after gaining independence from British rule in 1947.

The Indian army said "justice is served", reporting nine "terrorist camps" had been destroyed, with New Delhi adding that its actions "have been focused, measured and non-escalatory".

Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif accused Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi of launching the strikes to "shore up" his domestic popularity, adding that Islamabad "won't take long to settle the score".

Pakistan military spokesman Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said five Indian jets had been downed across the border overnight.

An Indian senior security source, who asked not to be named, said three of its fighter jets had crashed on home territory.



- Children among the dead -



The largest Indian strike was on an Islamic seminary near the Punjabi city of Bahawalpur, killing 13 people according to the Pakistan military.

A government health and education complex in Muridke, 30 kilometres from Lahore, was blown apart, along with a mosque in Muzaffarabad -- the main city of Pakistan-administered Kashmir -- killing its caretaker.

Four children were among those killed in Wednesday's attacks, according to the Pakistan military.

Pakistan also said a hydropower plant in Kashmir was targeted by India, damaging a dam structure, after India threatened to stop the flow of water on its side of the border.

Pakistan had earlier warned that tampering with the rivers that flow into its territory would be an "act of war".

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the overnight operation was New Delhi's "right to respond" following the attack on tourists in Pahalgam in Kashmir last month.

Pakistan has denied any involvement in the Pahalgam assault.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif labelled India's strikes a "heinous act of aggression" that would "not go unpunished".

On Wednesday night, Pakistan military spokesman Chaudhry said the rise in the death toll was due to "India's unprovoked firing at the Line of Control and ceasefire violations."

"Every last drop of the blood of innocent Pakistani civilians killed will be avenged," he said.



- 'Terrible sounds in the night' -



In Muzaffarabad, United Nations military observers arrived to inspect a mosque that Islamabad said was struck by India.

"There were terrible sounds during the night, there was panic among everyone," said Muhammad Salman, who lives close to the mosque.

"We are moving to a safer place... we are homeless now," added 24-year-old Tariq Mir, who was hit in the leg by shrapnel.

Residents collected damaged copies of the Koran from among concrete, wood, and iron debris.

In Indian-administered Kashmir, residents fled in panic from the Pakistan shelling.

"There was firing from Pakistan, which damaged the houses and injured many," said Wasim Ahmed, 29, from Salamabad village. "People are fleeing."



- Global concern -



India had been widely expected to respond militarily to the Pahalgam attack on April 22 that killed 26 people, mainly Hindu men, which it blamed on Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba, a UN-designated terrorist organisation.

The two nations have traded days of threats and tit-for-tat diplomatic measures, while Pakistan has conducted two missile tests.

The Indian army has reported nightly gunfire along the heavily militarised Line of Control that separates the region since April 24.

"Escalation between India and Pakistan has already reached a larger scale than during the last major crisis in 2019, with potentially dire consequences," International Crisis Group analyst Praveen Donthi said.

Diplomats and world leaders have piled pressure on both countries to step back.

"The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan," the spokesman for UN chief Antonio Guterres said in a statement.

On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump called for a halt to the fighting, adding "if I can do anything to help, I will be there."

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was expected in New Delhi late on Wednesday, two days after a visit to Islamabad, as Tehran seeks to mediate.

Rebels in Indian-administered Kashmir have waged an insurgency since 1989, seeking independence or a merger with Pakistan.

India regularly blames Pakistan for backing armed groups fighting its forces in Kashmir, a charge that Islamabad denies.

burs-pjm/ecl/fox/aha/bgs
Trump tells India and Pakistan to 'stop' clashes



Washington, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



US President Donald Trump called Wednesday for India and Pakistan to immediately halt their fighting, and offered to help end the worst violence between the nuclear-armed countries in two decades.

"It's so terrible," Trump said at the White House. "I get along with both, I know both very well, and I want to see them work it out. I want to see them stop.

"They've gone tit-for-tat, so hopefully they can stop now."

Trump's comments came as India and Pakistan exchanged heavy artillery fire along their contested frontier, after New Delhi launched deadly missile strikes on its arch-rival.

At least 43 deaths were reported in the fighting, which came two weeks after New Delhi blamed Islamabad for backing an attack on the Indian-run side of disputed Kashmir, which Pakistan denied.

Pakistan has long been a key US military ally but Trump has been keen to build up relations with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whom he hosted at the White House in February.

"We get along with both countries very well, good relationships with both, and I want to see it stop," Trump said in the Oval Office.

"And if I can do anything to help, I will be there."

Trump initially played down the crisis as part of old tensions between India and Pakistan -- even saying they had been at odds for 1,500 years, despite the two countries only forming after independence from Britain in 1947.

But his administration has scrambled into action in the last 24 hours since the Indian strikes.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke to his counterparts from India and Pakistan on Friday, encouraging them to reopen dialogue to "defuse" the situation, the White House said.
Merz supports easing EU fiscal rules to boost defence spending



Warsaw, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



Germany's new Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Wednesday said that Berlin supports relaxing strict EU fiscal rules to let member states ramp up defence spending as he sought to establish his European credentials on his first foreign visits.

Less than a day after scrambling to get enough votes in parliament to secure his job, Merz visited France and Poland in a high profile start to his term when he will have the threat of the Ukraine war, transatlantic tensions and domestic worries over the far-right to tackle.

In Paris, Merz said that he and France's President Emmanuel Macron had "agreed a new start for Europe", though he gave few details.

The 69-year-old Christian Democrats head turned his attention to the European Union's military spending in Poland, a key ally of Ukraine in its war with Russia.

Speaking at a press conference with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Merz pointed to recent changes to Germany's constitutional debt rules to largely exempt defence spending.

"We could imagine something similar for the European fiscal pact or fiscal rules," he said.



- More bazookas -



The continent has been looking to rearm following Russia's invasion of Ukraine and US President Donald Trump's changing stance on European security.

In April, the European Commission said it would relax strict rules limiting public debt in order to allow states to spend up to 1.5 percent of national output on defence for four years.

EU members are bound by spending rules obliging them to keep the public deficit below three percent of economic output and debt at 60 percent of GDP.

But the EU can suspend the rules in exceptional circumstances and crises, as it did during the coronavirus pandemic when states had to prop up their embattled economies.

Sixteen countries, including Germany, have said they want to make use of the exemption.

Merz and his Social Democrat (SPD) coalition partners pushed the change to Germany's constitution through the parliament earlier this year, enabling a "bazooka" of borrowing to upgrade Germany's defence and infrastructure.

Merz also said it was important for the EU "to produce more" of its own military equipment and to harmonise weapons systems across member states.

"We must make sure the European members of NATO, and the whole European Union, are able to defend themselves on a long-term basis," he said.

Tusk in turn praised what he called a "new opening" for the countries' relations that could be "the most important in the history of German-Polish relations in more than 10 years."

Tusk said Europe's external frontiers had to be strengthened to defend internal travel. Merz's government, which has seen the far-right seize on fears over migration, controversially announced on Wednesday that border guards would be told to push back most asylum seekers.

Tusk said it was "in the interest" of Germany and Poland to maintain "free passage" between their countries and that more attention should be "concentrated on the protection of the external borders" of the European Union.

In a new sign of EU leaders' desire to strengthen their standing, the French and Polish leaders will on Friday sign a new friendship alliance that will include security cooperation.
Pakistan warns will 'avenge' deaths from Indian strikes



Muzaffarabad, Pakistan, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



Pakistan has warned it will "avenge" those killed by Indian air strikes that New Delhi said were in response to an attack in Kashmir, signalling an imminent escalation in the worst violence in decades between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

At least 43 deaths have been reported so far, with Islamabad saying 31 civilians were killed by the Indian strikes and firing along the border, and New Delhi adding at least 12 dead from Pakistani shelling.

"We make this pledge, that we will avenge each drop of the blood of these martyrs," Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said in an address to the nation late Wednesday.

India's army said it destroyed nine "terrorist camps" in Pakistan in the early hours of Wednesday, two weeks after New Delhi blamed Islamabad for backing an attack on tourists in the Indian-administered side of disputed Kashmir -- a charge Pakistan denies.

Pakistan military spokesman Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said five Indian jets had been downed across the border.

An Indian senior security source, who asked not to be named, said three of its fighter jets had crashed on home territory.

The two sides have exchanged heavy artillery fire along the Line of Control that divides Kashmir, which both countries claim in full but administer separately.

The South Asian neighbours have fought two full-scale wars over the divided territory since they were carved out of the sub-continent after gaining independence from British rule in 1947.

"There were terrible sounds during the night, there was panic among everyone," said Muhammad Salman, who lives close to a mosque in Pakistan-administered Kashmir that was hit by an Indian strike.

"We are moving to a safer place... we are homeless now," added 24-year-old Tariq Mir, who was hit in the leg by shrapnel.

India said that its actions "have been focused, measured and non-escalatory".

Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif accused Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi of launching the strikes to "shore up" his domestic popularity, adding that Islamabad "won't take long to settle the score".



- 'People are fleeing' -



On Wednesday night, the Pakistani military spokesman said firing was "ongoing" at the Line of Control and that Islamabad would take retaliatory action against the air strikes.

Chaudhry reiterated Pakistan's "right to respond, in self-defence, at time, place, and manner of its choosing," adding that the armed forces had been "authorised" to do so by the government.

The largest Indian strike was on an Islamic seminary near the Punjab city of Bahawalpur, killing 13 people, according to the Pakistan military.

A government health and education complex in Muridke, 30 kilometres (20 miles) from Lahore, was blown apart, along with the mosque in Muzaffarabad -- the main city of Pakistan-administered Kashmir -- killing its caretaker.

Four children were among those killed in Wednesday's attacks, according to the Pakistan military.

Pakistan also said a hydropower plant in Kashmir was targeted by India, damaging a dam structure, after India threatened to stop the flow of water on its side of the border.

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the operation was New Delhi's "right to respond" following the attack on tourists in Pahalgam in Kashmir last month.

Pakistan has denied any involvement in that assault, which killed 26 people, mainly Hindu men, on April 22.

In Muzaffarabad, United Nations military observers arrived to inspect the mosque that Islamabad said was struck by India.

Residents collected damaged copies of the Koran from among concrete, wood, and iron debris.

In Indian-administered Kashmir, residents fled in panic from the Pakistani shelling.

"There was firing from Pakistan, which damaged the houses and injured many," said Wasim Ahmed, 29, from Salamabad village. "People are fleeing."



- Calls for restraint -



India had been widely expected to respond militarily to the Pahalgam attack, which it blamed on Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba, a UN-designated terrorist organisation.

The two nations had traded days of threats and tit-for-tat diplomatic measures, and Pakistan conducted two missile tests.

The Indian army has reported nightly gunfire along the heavily militarised Line of Control since April 24.

Diplomats and world leaders have piled pressure on both countries to step back from the brink.

"The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan," the spokesman for UN chief Antonio Guterres said.

On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump called for a halt to the fighting, adding: "If I can do anything to help, I will be there."

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was expected in New Delhi late on Wednesday, two days after a visit to Islamabad, as Tehran seeks to mediate.

Rebels in Indian-administered Kashmir have waged an insurgency since 1989, seeking independence or a merger with Pakistan.

India regularly blames Pakistan for backing armed groups fighting its forces in Kashmir, a charge that Islamabad denies.

burs-pjm-aha/sst
Forces cant control or counter the speed and volume of online content, that goes without saying, but they need to better appreciate how fast-moving events will require them to counter the false narratives online and be innovative in their approach, he said.
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
He said: It is disappointing that the Government failed to start the negotiations with President Trumps team for five months after the election and fired Britains top trade negotiator. It is difficult not to wonder if a different approach could have led to a different outcome.
We were looking forward to the day, but this is very, very painful. My daughter was very hardworking and was one of the best students. She had been in the US for five years and had no issues, not even a single complaint, he told the Times. She wouldnt hurt a fly. She was always either in school, library or church.
Meanwhile, Indias army said at least 15 civilians had been killed in a Pakistani shelling on its side of the de facto border, as it confirmed the strikes were in response to a militant attack on Indian tourists in Pahalgam last month.
The May 19 summit is likely to be the first in an annual series of UK-EU meetings, with progress on a security and defence agreement and measures to smooth trade the initial priorities, rather than detailed talks on a youth mobility scheme.
However, claiming that there are many Labour politicians who are very, very soft on independence, borderline pro-independence if not privately pro-independence, the Scottish Conservative leader added: I do worry that Sir Keir Starmer is capable of doing anything quite frankly.
In response, there are reports of Pakistani artillery fire across the Line of Control. On the night of 6 May (UK Time) Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority indicated that it was closing Pakistan airspace for at least 48 hours. There are reports of flights being diverted. British nationals should contact their airline for up-to-date information.
Best vitamins for heart health and prevention

This is the best South African wine, according to a wine expert

5 of the best cookies in London: taste tested by The Standard team

Top entry-level racing bikes for beginners

Best tennis rackets to hit the court in 2025
Michelle and I send our congratulations to a fellow Chicagoan, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, Former US president Barack Obama said. This is a historic day for the United States, and we will pray for him as he begins the sacred work of leading the Catholic Church and setting an example for so many, regardless of faith.
He added: There are of course some folk who want to fight the war all over again and set aside the progress that has been made  and that includes those who killed Denis Donaldson, and Im sure whoever it was who would like to see me dead as well.
News / National

by Staff reporter

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has applauded the growing diversity of skills and competencies within Zanu-PF party structures, saying this would boost the party's ability to achieve its developmental goals and help Zimbabwe attain upper middle-income status by 2030.Addressing the 383rd Session of the Zanu-PF Politburo in Harare on Tuesday morning, Mnangagwa, who is also the party's First Secretary, said the evolving composition of the party - from grassroots to national level - was positioning Zanu-PF to be more responsive to the needs of communities."I expect the dynamic and diverse skills, as well as competencies emerging from the composition of our membership to enable cells, branches, districts and provinces to be better equipped and more responsive to the needs of communities," said Mnangagwa."This must ultimately accelerate the realisation of our party objectives and Vision 2030."The President called for inclusivity within the party, urging women, youths, and professionals from all socio-economic backgrounds to actively participate and feel represented within Zanu-PF."Zanu-PF is a people's party. We embrace all and represent everyonewe are leaving no one and no place behind," he said.Mnangagwa also challenged party members to remain united and focused on advancing the interests of both the nation and the party."United and focused as one people with one common vision, let us consistently and persistently advance the interests of our nation and party," he said.The Politburo is expected to deliberate on several key national and party-related matters during the ongoing session.
News / National

by Staff reporter

A storm is brewing in Zimbabwe's music circles as the Kurai Makore Fan Club has accused Zanu-PF linked Jah Prayzah of allegedly copying the beat from Kurai Makore's song "Kanyarugwe", which was released in August 2024.Fans took to social media platforms over the weekend, drawing comparisons between the two songs and claiming that Jah Prayzah's latest track bears a striking resemblance to Makore's beat  albeit with a few minor variations."The beat is almost identical, just with a few twists," wrote one fan in a post that has since gone viral. The allegation has stirred intense debate among music lovers, with some demanding answers and others defending Jah Prayzah's artistic choices.So far, Kurai Makore has not issued any official comment on the matter, while Jah Prayzah and his management team have remained silent amid mounting calls for a response.The controversy highlights the growing sensitivity around originality and intellectual property in Zimbabwe's music industry, especially as younger and lesser-known artists seek recognition and protection of their work.Whether the issue will escalate to legal action remains to be seen, but pressure is building for both camps to address the allegations publicly.
News / National

by Staff reporter

The high-profile cases of fugitive Malawian preacher Shepherd Bushiri and controversial Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo have taken centre stage at the 15th Commonwealth Regional Conference for Heads of Anti-Corruption Agencies in Africa, currently underway in Cape Town.The four-day conference, hosted by South Africa's Special Investigating Unit (SIU), has drawn anti-corruption bodies from 21 Commonwealth African nations under the theme: "Enhancing Inclusive Participation of State and Non-State Actors to Prevent and Combat Corruption."Speaking to the SABC, SIU head Advocate Andy Mothibi confirmed that Bushiri's case was among the conference's key priorities, highlighting the growing urgency of addressing transnational financial crimes.Authorities in South Africa have intensified investigations into both Bushiri and Chivayo, each accused of orchestrating complex fraud and money laundering operations with cross-border implications.Chivayo is currently under investigation by South Africa's Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), the South African Revenue Service (SARS), and the police. The scrutiny follows revelations that Zimbabwe's Ministry of Finance disbursed more than R1.1 billion to Johannesburg-based printing firm Ren-Form for supplying election materials in 2023without a public tender process. More than R800 million of that sum was allegedly routed through companies linked to Chivayo, including Intratrek Holdings and Dolintel Trading.A confidential FIC report, obtained by regional investigators, outlines how large sums were rapidly transferred into Chivayo's associated entities, only to be further redistributed in what are being described as suspicious financial flows. These include R351 million to Asibambeki Platinum Group, R5.4 million to luxury car dealership Daytona, and R4 million to law firm Strauss Scher Inc.Chivayo has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that all transactions were legitimate business activities. However, leaked audio recordingsbelieved to feature Chivayoboasting about bribing senior Zimbabwean officials to secure the contract have severely damaged his credibility. Although he later issued an apology to President Emmerson Mnangagwa and other officials mentioned in the recordings, he did not dispute the authenticity of the alleged payments.Despite a past conviction for fraud in the early 2000s, Chivayo has remained a politically connected figure in Zimbabwe, often seen at state events alongside Mnangagwa.Meanwhile, South African authorities are pushing for the extradition of Shepherd Bushiri, who fled to Malawi in 2020 while on bail for charges of fraud, money laundering, and racketeering involving over R100 million. Alongside his wife Mary, Bushiri was arrested for allegedly defrauding investors under the guise of religious "miracle seed" offerings but fled the country claiming threats to their lives.Since their flight, Malawi has resisted South Africa's extradition requests, citing procedural irregularities. Nonetheless, South African prosecutors continue to insist that Bushiri and his wife face justice, framing the case as a test of international legal cooperation and accountability for religious figures who exploit faith for personal enrichment.The presence of these cases at the conference underscores the growing concern over politically insulated corruption networks in Africa. Both Bushiri and Chivayo are now viewed as emblematic of a wider problem: elite impunity enabled by state complicity, legal loopholes, and lack of regional coordination.South Africa, which loses billions of rands annually to procurement corruption, hopes the Cape Town summit will help galvanise cross-border collaboration to crack down on illicit financial flows and bring perpetrators to justice.As the conference continues, there are renewed calls for African countries to reinforce mechanisms for mutual legal assistance, asset recovery, and the extradition of individuals implicated in large-scale corruption.
News / National

by Staff reporter

Police have arrested a former farm manager in connection with the suspected theft of 100 cattle and 38 Boer goats from a farm in Mvurwi, in a case that has shocked the local agricultural community.The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the arrest of Darlington Mapfumo, who was employed as a farm manager at the time the livestock went missing.ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the alleged theft occurred over several years, spanning from 2021 to April 2025."On May 4, 2025, police in Norton arrested Darlington Mapfumo in connection with a case of stock theft which occurred in Mvurwi between 2021 and April 2025," said Comm Nyathi.Mapfumo is accused of systematically stealing 100 cattle and 38 Boer goats, with the total value of the livestock pegged at approximately US$56,840.So far, authorities have managed to recover 20 of the 100 stolen cattle. Investigations are ongoing as police work to track down the remaining livestock and determine whether additional individuals were involved in the scheme.Stock theft remains a serious crime in Zimbabwe, particularly in rural farming communities, where it undermines livelihoods and threatens food security.The ZRP has urged farmers to enhance security measures and routinely audit their livestock holdings to detect any irregularities early.Comm Nyathi also appealed to members of the public with information that could assist in recovering the remaining animals to come forward.Mapfumo is expected to appear in court soon to face formal charges of stock theft.
Romania is strengthening its position as a regional leader in the energy transition, and this autumn Bucharest will host this year's second meeting of the Investment Committee of the Modernisation Fund, a program managed by the European Investment Bank (EIB) in cooperation with the European Commission, the Energy Ministry said in a release.

According to the cited source, the session will bring together representatives of the Fund's 13 beneficiary member states - including Romania, Bulgaria, Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic - along with three non-beneficiary member states (Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden), as well as delegates of the European Commission and the EIB.

"It is a clear recognition of the active and efficient role Romania plays in directing European investments towards strategic energy projects," the release emphasizes.

Preparations began on Wednesday with the arrival in Bucharest of a special EIB delegation that will collaborate with the Energy Ministry on the technical organization of the meeting.

"Romania is today in the top spot as far as attracting non-reimbursable financing from the Modernization Fund is concerned, an achievement that reflects the vision, work and professionalism of our team," Energy Minister Sebastian Burduja said, showing that during his term, projects worth a total of 10 billion euros have been promoted and approved for funding through this instrument. Of this amount, over 6.25 billion euros have already been transferred to the national accounts. "This money is invested in concrete projects: energy infrastructure, new energy production capacities, smart grids, energy efficiency in industry. It is an honor for Romania to host the next meeting of the Investment Committee, and this once again confirms the trust our European partners are putting in us," the minister said.

By hosting this event in Bucharest, Romania reaffirms its key role in the European energy architecture and takes up the responsibility to shape, together with other European partners, the future of a safe, sustainable and clean economy, the cited source also mentions.
The best political solution is a government of national unity or a government of technocrats with broad support, formed by high-quality experts, declared on Wednesday the president of the National Trade Union Bloc (BNS), Dumitru Costin, at the BNS Congress, in front of the two candidates in the second round of the presidential elections, George Simion (AUR chairman) and Nicusor Dan (independent).

The union leader spoke, at the opening of the Congress, about the multiple social, economic and political crises that Romania is suffering from.
Romania's Minister of Foreign Affairs Emil Hurezeanu participates in the informal meeting of foreign ministers from EU member states (Gymnich format) in Warsaw on Wednesday and Thursday.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE), the meeting is hosted by High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, and Polish Minister of Foreign Affairs Radoslaw Sikorski, as Poland currently holds the Presidency of the Council of the EU.

The discussions will focus on: EU - United Kingdom relations, with the participation of British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, EU-United States relations, and the Russian military aggression against Ukraine, the Foreign Ministry announced. AGERPRES
The commercial contract for the delivery of natural gas from the Neptun Deep perimeter, between OMV Petrom and the state-owned company from the Republic of Moldova, Energocom SA, marks the beginning of a new stage in strenghtening regional energy security and capitalizing on Romania's strategic natural resources, say representatives of the Ministry of Energy.

According to a press release sent to AGERPRES on Wednesday, the signed contract provides for the supply of natural gas for 3 years to the virtual trading point (VTP) in Romania, with the final destination being the Republic of Moldova.

The gas will come from the offshore Neptun Deep field, the largest natural gas project in the Black Sea and Romania's first deepwater project, with reserves estimated at at least 100 billion cubic metres, the same source states.

"The resources of the Black Sea are a strategic advantage for us and a responsibility towards our neighbours and brothers. I have always said that Neptun Deep is about solidarity, about the common energy future of the region. The signing of this contract demonstrates that Romania does not just promise, but delivers - resources, safety and trust. We help the Republic of Moldova with gas, with stability, with predictability and with a common vision. Through this gas delivery to the Republic of Moldova, Romania confirms its role as a provider of energy security in the region. It is a mission that we assume with responsibility, aware that energy stability is the foundation of a functional economy and a strong state," stated the minister of energy, Sebastian Burduja, quoted in the press release.

In his opinion, this step confirms both the viability of the Neptun Deep project, as well as the maturation of the Romanian energy market and "our capacity to think regionally, strategically, and Europeanly."

"We keep enough space for the use of Romanian gas in Romania, in the energy sector and for the revival of the Romanian industry, while at the same time being ready to support our brothers across the Prut to eliminate any dependence on energy resources from the East," added Sebastian Burduja.

The Neptun Deep project is the largest offshore natural gas exploitation project in the Black Sea and the first deep-sea project in Romania. Co-developed by Romgaz and OMV Petrom, Neptun Deep has reserves estimated at a minimum of 100 billion cubic metres of natural gas.

"The first commercial volumes are expected in 2027, and this contract signed with Energocom SA becomes the first concrete step towards regional exploitation of this strategic resource. Neptun Deep will allow Romania to strengthen its position as the largest natural gas producer in the European Union, making a major contribution to national and European energy independence," the press release added.

At the same time, the project is an important catalyst for attracting investment, developing infrastructure and creating jobs in the Romanian economy.

"This collaboration between OMV Petrom and Energocom SA reflects both the efficiency of market mechanisms and the political will of institutions on both banks of the Prut to build a sustainable energy alliance, on European and democratic bases. The Ministry of Energy reaffirms its commitment to an energy-independent Romania, integrated into a regional solidarity network, and remains an active partner of the Republic of Moldova in its effort to become part of the European energy market," the ministry's representatives said. AGERPRES
The Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR) presidential candidate, George Simion, reaffirmed on Tuesday evening that he will nominate Georgescu for the position of prime minister, adding that there are several possible paths forward, including early elections.

Asked in a Digi24 TV interview whether he plans, if elected president, to appoint Calin Georgescu as prime minister, George Simion said that this is a commitment he has made to the Romanian people.

"There are several possibilities; this is one of them," he emphasised.

George Simion added that he has had numerous discussions with Calin Georgescu, but they must get past "a milestone called May 18," otherwise, "we're selling the bear's skin before catching it."

"Two days ago, I was telling someone and trying to explain this theory, arguing that the current majority will not remain in its current composition and the coalition will fall apart if the Romanian people do not place their candidate in the second round. And here we are, two days later, and I was right. In fact, I was right back in December at the end of the electoral cycle, when Marcel Ciolacu should not have been reappointed as prime minister. And I strongly fear that we haven't gotten rid of Marcel Ciolacu yet," said Simion.

He then clarified that he will nominate Calin Georgescu as prime minister: "Yes, I will nominate him."

Regarding the possibility that Calin Georgescu might not secure a parliamentary majority, Simion referred to a provision in the Constitution: "The Constitution says this: the President can nominate one person and then another. From the date of the first nomination, there are 60 days available, after which the President can dissolve Parliament."

According to the AUR leader, there are several options on the table, with early elections not being ruled out.

"There are several options in play. I expect the current composition of Parliament, considering the overwhelming vote, it's almost unprecedented to have such a large gap between first and second place in our short electoral history (not of democracy, because I wouldn't call it that anymore), we'll see if this vote holds and if we have the public's support, if Romanians accept this option. I will likely insist on going to early elections with Calin Georgescu, but the probability is quite low because I expect to find 50 percent plus one of the members of Parliament. (...) I don't know what's happening with PSD right now, I'm not Baba Vanga. Same with PNL or USR. Technically, neither PSD nor USR has a president anymore. We'll see what happens with Mr. Bolojan. It's uncertain. I will also no longer be the president of AUR once I go to Cotroceni. So these are some hypotheses. (...) I believe I will propose Mr. Calin Georgescu and we'll find 50 percent plus one of the parliamentarians who will vote for him," explained George Simion.

He added that early elections are a possibility, though he would sincerely prefer to avoid them

Asked whether such a move would create instability, Simion responded that he was not the one who created it.

"I didn't create it, but those who brought us here did, five months after the cancellation of the elections at BBB minus. I was accused of being responsible for the rise in the exchange rate, that the stock markets fell. Let's be serious. Who was in charge? I sincerely doubt that our budget deficit is 8.59%. I think there are bigger problems there. (...) I have multiple, converging sources. The situation is more dramatic than we know today," added the AUR leader.AGERPRES
Europe Day will be marked at the Cotroceni Presidential Palace on Friday with the debate "ImprEUna [Together] - Romania and our Europe: present and future", the Presidential Administration informed on Wednesday.

According to the cited source, the event is dedicated to "reflecting on Romania's European path and the common values shared within the European Union" and will bring together about 200 guests, including 150 students and high school seniors, ambassadors of the European Union member states accredited in Romania, as well as representatives of European institutions: the European Commission, the European Parliament, the European Investment Bank.

The moderator of the debate will be the Minister of Education and Research, Daniel David, and among the keynote speakers will be Roxana Minzatu, Vice-President of the European Commission, Ramona Chiriac - Head of the European Commission Representation in Romania and Madalina Beatrice Mihalache - Head of the European Parliament Information Office in Romania.

The event will also include an interactive question-and-answer session, where young people will be able to interact directly with representatives of European institutions.

Due to the organization of this event, the representation and protocol spaces of the Presidential Administration will not be open to the public on Friday, as part of the "Open Doors at the Cotroceni Presidential Palace" program.
A total of 10,362 pupils, aged 15, from 321 educational units in Romania will participate in the main stage of PISA 2025 Study, to be administered by the Institute of Educational Sciences from May 12 to June 9.

According to a press release of the Ministry of Education and Research, the 321 educational units - secondary schools, high schools or vocational schools participating in the study are from both the urban and rural area, randomly selected through a standardized procedure, unique at international level (representative sample). Of the 10,362 pupils to be assessed, 1,477 (from 66 educational units) learn Hungarian (nationally representative sample for this population group).

Also participating are 2,015 teachers, of whom 1,430 science teachers (Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Geography), and 585 English language teachers from the participating educational units.

For the first time in Romania, PISA 2025 also assesses students' English language proficiency in the Foreign Language Assessment (FLA) study, in which 2,149 students are set to participate.

Also for the first time in Romania, a series of additional questionnaires will be administered: the Science Teacher Questionnaire, the English Language Teacher Questionnaire and the Parent Questionnaire.

Assessment sessions for students last about 4 hours, of which: 15 minutes for the general introduction, 120 - 130 minutes are allocated to the administration of the cognitive test, organized in 2 sessions of 60 - 65 minutes each, with a short break in between, 15 minutes break, 45 - 50 minutes for the completion of the student questionnaire (students express their opinions about activities at school and outside school, as well as about some aspects of the quality of their life) and the ICT questionnaire.

"All assessment instruments are administered in digital format, except for the questionnaire administered to parents, which will be in paper format. At the level of each school unit, the tests will take place on a single day (in parallel and/or successive sessions) or on consecutive days, on dates agreed with the schools. The whole process is standardized, according to international methodologies, based on administration manuals," says the source.

The data collected - the students' responses to cognitive tests and questionnaires, as well as those of the targeted teachers - are entered directly into the PISA 2025 platform. Parents' responses to the questionnaires are entered by National Center staff into a dedicated database provided by the PISA 2025 Consortium.

"The results are strictly confidential. No students and no schools are identified in international or national reports, as this study is not designed to provide individual test scores or questionnaires," says the Ministry of Education and Research.

"Romania's participation in PISA 2025, including the international options, aims both to obtain a detailed picture of the level of some of the fundamental competencies acquired by students and to increase the capacity of Romanian decision-makers to adopt and implement evidence-based education policies. The results obtained by Romanian students are the basis for designing appropriate interventions, as they refer not only to the level of students' acquisition but also to the learning contexts. The participation in the PISA 2025 study contributes to the correlation of Romanian education with the evolution of internationally performing education systems," maintain the representatives of the Ministry of Education and Research.

The data collected will form the basis of the analysis that will allow to understand the extent to which Romanian students are prepared for further studies and integration into the labor market.
The Mayor of Bucharest, Nicusor Dan, an independent candidate for the presidential runoff, believes that his chances of success increase if there will be a high turnout at the polls on May 18.

"We all have to look at the sociological analyses: how many people say they will come to vote; How many of those who voted for other candidates, in what way they switched gear... But, in principle, yes. In principle, a presence of 11 million gives me very high chances to win," Dan told a news briefing on Wednesday.

As for participating in an electoral debate with his opponent, George Simion, the mayor of Bucharest said that such events should be organised by TV channels or other credible organisations.

"For now, there are a few, for next week. These are the serious things that I said I would participate in," he replied.

Dan rejected the idea that he would "run away" from a debate.

"I think that Romanians judge with their heads and see what is serious and what is flawed in this campaign. We will have some debates that I hope they will come to, seriously organised by television channels," he said.

Dan added that one of the issues that should be debated on in the two weeks of campaigning is the "culture of dialogue" in the Romanian society. He stressed that politicians must send messages that unite society, not that "incite" violence.

"I have been in the public space for 20 years and I have never promoted hatred. Of course, I have criticised many people, in decades' terms, with arguments. But I never promoted hatred. And I think that one of the themes of this presidential debate is a culture of dialogue as opposed to a culture of hatred."

As for the appeal filed with the Constitutional Court (CCR) for the annulment of the election, Dan said he was not confident that the approach would have chances of success.

"I don't think so... These are unserious things. We had an electoral process, with the nuances I said, with cyber-attacks and with the things I said and, obviously, I don't retract. However, campaigning is over. The results are the ones we know. I don't see any reason," said Dan.

Chairman of the New Romania Party Sebastian Popescu, another candidate in the May 4 presidential election rerun, said on Tuesday that he asked the Constitutional Court to annul the May 4 election, for a central reason being that "not all the electoral competitors, the 11, had equal chances in the rerun." AGERPRES
Nine people, Romanian nationals and their family members, were evacuated on Tuesday from the Gaza Strip to Jordan to be flown to Romania by an airplane of the Romanian Air Force.

According to the Romanian Foreign Ministry (MAE), the evacuation was made following complex efforts, through the Romanian embassies in Tel Aviv and Amman and the Romanian Representative Office in Ramallah.

"The citizens were taken over by a mobile consular team of MAE and arrived on the soil of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, from where they will be repatriated by means of a military flight carried out with an aircraft belonging to the Romanian Air Force. MAE takes this opportunity to thank the international and national partners for the support provided in the evacuation and repatriation operation," says MAE.

The Israeli government has announced a new military campaign in the Gaza Strip aimed at taking over the land. The Gaza Strip, whose inhabitants had already been almost all displaced - mostly several times - since the start of the war on October 7, 2023, has been under a strict Israeli blockade March 2 and facing a serious humanitarian crisis, according to the AFP news agency. AGERPRES
More than 600 inventions, research projects and innovative applications from all over the world will be on display from Thursday to Saturday at the Palace of Culture in Iasi, during EUROINVENT 2025.

According to the organizers, the opening ceremony of EUROINVENT - The European Exhibition of Creativity and Innovation, one of the most appreciated events in Europe in the field of invention, creativity and innovation, will take place on Thursday in the Voievozilor Hall of the Palace of Culture in Iasi.

The International Conference on Innovative Research (ICIR 2025, 11th edition), the technical-scientific, artistic and literary book fair, various workshops, will also be held at the same time as the invention exhibition.

Moreover, the visual arts exhibition EUROINVENT 2025 - Creative Intelligence of the professors of the Faculty of Visual Arts and Design of the National University of Arts George Enescu" of Iasi is hosted by ALCHIMIA Transdisciplinary Art Gallery of the "Cristofor Simionescu" Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Protection of Gheorghe Asachi Technical University in Iasi.

"Now in its 7th edition, EUROINVENT becomes every year the place where inventors, researchers, professors and entrepreneurs from dozens of countries meet. More than 600 inventions, research projects and innovative applications from various fields - engineering, medicine, agriculture, environment, applied art, education, etc. - will be on display. The event is not just for specialists, but is open to the general public, promoting science, creativity and curiosity. Visitors can discover cutting-edge technologies, interact directly with the inventors and better understand the role of research and science in everyday life. The event will conclude on Saturday 10 May with a ceremony where the best inventions and research will be rewarded with internationally recognized prizes," reads a press release.

EUROINVENT is organized by the Forum of Romanian Inventors, Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi, EUROPE DIRECT Iasi (host organization: Association for Ecology and Sustainable Development), Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Gr. T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, the National Institute of Research - Development for Environmental Protection Bucharest, in partnership with numerous international organizations, with the support of the National Authority for Research (ANC), under the Ministry of Education and Research.
News / National

by Staff reporter

In a development that has reignited concerns about Zimbabwe's compromised legal system, the High Court in Masvingo has removed from the roll a high-profile land dispute case involving Masvingo Provincial Affairs Minister Ezra Chadzamira. The case centers on allegations that the minister illegally seized land belonging to a widow to construct a private school - a move that has now been indefinitely stalled due to procedural delays.Justice Helena Charewa ruled that the matter could not proceed after it emerged during a Pre-Trial Conference that none of the parties involved had properly prepared their court papers. Although the hearing was initially rescheduled for May 15, 2025, the case was ultimately removed from the roll, meaning it will only proceed if it is re-enrolled - a procedural hurdle that has historically marked the quiet collapse of politically sensitive cases in Zimbabwe.The property in question, located in Morningside, Masvingo, belonged to the late Farai Mutsetse and has been occupied and developed by his widow since 2009. According to the widow, Chadzamira began constructing a private school on the land in 2024 despite her repeated objections and documented proof of ownership, including municipal bills, water rates, and official correspondence from the city council.The case took a sinister turn when the widow alleged that key documents proving her ownership mysteriously vanished from the Masvingo City Council's offices. Such disappearances have become a hallmark of land grabs involving politically powerful figures, raising suspicion of institutional complicity. The council and the Ministry of Local Government, which Chadzamira claims sold him the land, are both named as respondents in the case, along with the city's housing director.This is not the first time Minister Chadzamira has been accused of forcibly taking land. In a separate incident, he was alleged to have grabbed Cresta Ibeka - a farm and residential property located about 10 kilometers from Masvingo's central business district - from 66-year-old widow Yvonne Goddard. Despite a public outcry over that case, no legal action was taken against him.Chadzamira's continued evasion of legal consequences has come to symbolise the widespread impunity enjoyed by senior ZANU-PF officials. Critics point to a "catch and release" pattern that has come to define Zimbabwe's justice system - where politically connected individuals are arrested or sued, only for their cases to be indefinitely delayed, dismissed, or quietly buried.Under President Emmerson Mnangagwa's administration, promises to root out corruption have repeatedly failed to materialise. Instead, the judiciary is increasingly perceived as an instrument of political control, shielding allies of the ruling party while targeting dissenters and opposition activists.Despite the widow's clear evidence of ownership and continued occupation of the land, the High Court's decision to remove the matter from the roll has once again highlighted the challenges faced by ordinary Zimbabweans in seeking justice. Legal experts say the move effectively derails the widow's attempt to reclaim her property and sends a chilling message about the state of the rule of law in the country.For now, Chadzamira remains free to continue building on the contested land, with little recourse available to the woman whose home and livelihood hang in the balance.
AGERPRES special correspondent Ionut Mares reports: The European path is the correct solution for Romania, which cannot afford, given the current economic context, to lose access to European financial resources, Social Democratic Party (PSD) MEP Victor Negrescu said in Strasbourg on Tuesday, pointing out that, based on his European-level credentials, he can only continue to support the European path in the presidential election, while also respecting the PSD's decision not to express support for candidate Nicusor Dan in the second round of voting.

"A decision was made within the Social Democratic Party. Each leader has expressed their position. I have expressed a pro-European position. We'll see what the outcome of these elections will be," Negrescu said in a conversation with Romanian journalists in the European Parliament.

He noted that so far there has been no discussion between PSD and the European Socialists regarding the decision not to support Nicusor Dan in the second round of the presidential election.

"At this moment, there has not been such a discussion. Probably there will be one, and the party president, Marcel Ciolacu, will speak with the European Socialists and explain the decision he proposed to his colleagues in the Social Democratic Party. As I mentioned, there were voices that supported the pro-European path for the party," he clarified.

"I respect the decision made by the Social Democratic Party. At the same time, from my perspective as vice-president of the European Socialists and Democrats, I can only note that the Social Democratic Party presented itself as a pro-European party in local, parliamentary and presidential elections. Therefore, it seems natural for us to send this message, not necessarily focused on individuals, but on the risks posed by the far-right, and especially to stress why the Western, European path is the right solution for Romania. The correct solution for Romanians, but also for local development, because local authorities depend on the European funds we attract, and we have the example of states that, by choosing an extremist path, lost European funding," said Victor Negrescu, who is also a Vice-President of the European Parliament.

"Romania cannot afford, in the current economic context, to lose these European financial resources. Therefore, based on my European-level credentials, I can only continue to support the European path in this presidential election," he stressed.

Negrescu called the stance of the European People's Party (EPP) group in the European Parliament, criticising PSD for not supporting Nicusor Dan, "political posturing," adding that such an "approach does not help identify a solution."

"Moreover, the European People's Party has found itself in similar situations, even collaborating with the far-right in several European states. Therefore, we cannot accept lessons from the European People's Party," he said.

Asked why PSD failed to get its candidate into the second round of the presidential elections, both last year and in the current vote, Negrescu said that "an analysis is underway," but stressed the importance of focusing on the current situation.

"There were internal discussions; the analysis is ongoing. There are many things that can be discussed regarding why we ended up in this situation. However, even if we identify the problems, that doesn't solve the situation. I prefer to focus on what's happening now. The Social Democratic Party needs to conduct a thorough analysis of its future, its identity, and its projects. There are many good things we have accomplished, and I am extremely proud of them, like Romania's accession to the Schengen area," Negrescu explained.

"There are also areas where we still face challenges as a country, where perhaps we could have offered better solutions or communicated more effectively. We need to acknowledge all these things and move forward, because again, the public and political agendas are pressuring us to act more boldly and quickly," he warned.

According to Negrescu, a president of Romania who is "extremist or a contrarian" would be a president "unable to join together other European leaders around projects of interest to Romania."

"For example, such a president could never build a majority or reach unanimity on important topics, as was the case with Romania's accession to Schengen. They would be unable to negotiate more EU funds for Romania in the long-term European budget. They would be unable to secure higher subsidies for Romanian farmers because they wouldn't have anyone to work with, given their attitude. Today, important matters directly affecting Romanians' rights and benefits are being decided at the European level. And we need a president capable of discussing and negotiating with everyone, imposing their vision by building, not destroying, European negotiations. That is the major risk," said the PSD MEP.

He gave Hungary as an example, which, due to "Viktor Orban's behavior on certain issues," lost billions of euros in funding through the Recovery and Resilience Mechanism, leading to economic stagnation in the neighbouring country.

"It is not a problem to have an attitude that represents Romania with dignity, that is not what we are talking about. But an extremist, radical attitude, lacking a willingness to build, that is what risks harming Romania. Obviously, if, besides these, decisions are made affecting the rule of law and citizens' freedoms, they risk being sanctioned and affecting all Romanians directly," Negrescu warned.
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

As one could have guessed, the situation around former Missouri GOP gadfly Ed Martin has become muddled, murky and even messed up.

One key Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee, Thom Tillis of North Carolina, said Tuesday that he would not support Martin becoming the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia.

Tillis has blasted Martin for his past support for about 400 protesters who were charged with assaulting police officers on Jan. 6, 2021.

We have to be very, very clear that what happened (Jan. 6) was wrong, Tillis told reporters on Tuesday. They made a stupid decision, and they disgraced the United States by absolutely destroying the Capitol.

And while Josh Hawley, Missouris senior U.S. Senator and also a member of the judiciary committee, still says he supports Martins confirmation, he doesnt seem hellbent on going to the mat to make it happen.

Hawley told the Washington Post that Martins bid is up to the president now. Does he want to continue to push this?

According to Washington Post sources, the stumbling block is that Tillis objection to Martins confirmation kept Martins name off the judiciary committees agenda for this week.

That means the earliest a committee vote could be taken is May 22. The deadline for confirmation is May 20.

Said Hawley, If (Trump) really wants someone, he might be able to get Senator Tillis to change his mind. But I think itd probably take the president to do that.

Along with Trumps backing, Martin has the support of several powerful GOP senators, including judiciary committee chairman Chuck Grassley of Iowa and John Cornyn of Texas.

Missouri's other GOP Senator, Eric Schmitt, is in Martin's corner. " Our nation's capital has been a mess, and we need a U.S. attorney who's going to take on crime," he said.

On the other hand, some other influential senators  specifically Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota and Ted Cruz of Texas  have remained uncommitted.

Democrats allege that Martin, in his current interim service as U.S. attorney, has fired and demoted government workers who investigated Trump and his allies, and has engaged in improperly weaponizing his office to chill or punish perceived adversaries.

Martin, who used to live in St. Louis, broke onto the Missouri political scene in 2005, when he served as chief of staff to Gov. Matt Blunt. He also has served as chair of the St. Louis Board of Election Commissioners and head of the state Republican Party.

While here, he lost a bid to become Missouri attorney general and twice failed to be elected to the U.S. House.
FERGUSON  The federal consent decree that began nine years ago to reform Fergusons police and municipal courts has cost the city about $6 million, officials said Wednesday.

Those costs include lawyer fees, a federal monitor, training programs for police officers and additional equipment. The costs were greater early on after the 2016 consent decree began, and now are in the $400,000 to $500,000 a year range, City Manager John Hampton told the Post-Dispatch.

The city is still working to complete the reforms in 19 areas spelled out in the 131-page document between the city of Ferguson and the U.S. Department of Justice. Ferguson is 95% complete in at least 8 of the 19 areas, officials announced at a press briefing Wednesday.

Michael Brown, 18, was shot to death on Canfield Drive in August 2014 by a Ferguson officer. In 2015, an investigation by the U.S. Justice Department found no grounds to prosecute the Ferguson officer, but the federal agency issued a scathing report of the police department and how it treated Black residents. In 2016, the city agreed to a federal consent decree requiring sweeping changes.

City officials hope to finish the work in the next three to five years, said Patricia Washington, a city spokeswoman.

But residents here have wondered recently about the future of the decree, said Mayor Ella Jones. Last week, President Donald Trump ordered a review of all federal consent decrees by July.

Jones, however, said U.S. District Judge Catherine D. Perry, who is overseeing Fergusons consent decree, is the only one who could dismiss it. Perry postponed a status hearing on the consent decree on May 6, and Jones said that wrongly gave people the impression we were finished.

Jones said the city needs to demonstrate to the judge that most of the reform items are accomplished. If the judge releases Ferguson, the city would fall back to monitoring itself rather than have a federal monitor watch over the program.

Still, Ferguson police Chief Troy Doyle said he was more focused on Ferguson than 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

Ferguson should be concerned about what took place on Canfield, Chambers and West Florissant, Doyle added, referencing protests and unrest on those streets after Browns death. Thats whats important for this community.

Doyle said hes built a culture of community policing and his officers have bought into it. Were going to continue constitutional policing here, he said.

Washington said Ferguson residents generally fall into two camps: those who want the decree in place as a guardrail for police, and those who think it costs too much.

The cost of the consent decree includes hiring dozens more officers, paying for their cars and equipment, hiring a training coordinator and hiring an expert to come to Ferguson to teach bias-free policing. The agreement also requires Ferguson to pay for the federal monitor, researchers on her team, and her travel and hotel costs when she comes to St. Louis a few times a year. She speaks to residents at town hall meetings on some visits.

Washington said Ferguson is ready to ask the monitor to find the eight areas in compliance. Those deal with community engagement, neighborhood policing, bias-free policing and court practices.

The city hopes to have four additional areas ready by June, Washington said. The seven remaining areas might need another year and a half of work, Washington said. Those include providing police supervisors with First Amendment training and collecting data to be able to assess how various policies are being followed.

Jones said completing each task is time-consuming. One item can have 40 different things that needs to be done, and you cannot do it overnight.

Washington said the city has an exit strategy, including quarterly oversight of the areas that still need work.

Jones has lived in Ferguson since 1977 and said the city has made big changes.

This is a much better Ferguson, the mayor said. When kids used to be playing in the street, they would run from the police.

Now when they see the officers, they stop, she said. The officers engage with the children. It makes a huge difference.
ST. LOUIS  President Donald Trump named four lawyers and judges to fill vacancies on the federal bench here, his first major move to fill lower court vacancies and a victory for U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, who court observers say waited out the Biden administration for years in a gamble to seat more conservative judges.

The four nominees, who Trump announced Tuesday on his familys social media site, Truth Social, are expected to face little resistance in the GOP-controlled U.S. Senate.

If confirmed, they would represent a stark change in the judicial makeup of the Eastern District of Missouri by making seven of its eight full-time judges Trump appointees.

The St. Louis federal court had previously been a mix of Democratic- and Republican-nominated judges, often the result of a compromise if the Missouris senators were of a different party than the president.

Trumps nominees have strong conservative resumes, including two who worked for Hawleys federalism unit when he was Missouri attorney general and two who are members of the conservative judicial advocacy organization the Federalist Society. Three of them are in their 30s, meaning they could remain on the St. Louis bench for decades due to the lifetime appointments of federal judges.

They also are among the first nominees to the lower federal courts in Trumps second term, said Carl Tobias, professor at the University of Richmond School of Law who closely follows federal court nominations. Other states also have high numbers of vacancies, including conservative ones like Texas and Florida, he said. But Hawley must have been ready to roll.

Hes been slow because hes been cranking out those executive orders and tangling with tariffs, Tobias said of the president. Its a tribute to, probably, Hawley, who prevailed on Trump to do (Missouri judges) earlier.

Their nominations could finally help ease the workload on the current federal judges in the Eastern District of Missouri. St. Louis four vacancies on the federal bench made it an outlier in the federal courts.

The Judicial Conference of the United States, the national policymaking body for the federal courts, designated the four vacancies judicial emergencies based on the caseload it placed on other judges  the most of any district court in the country. Three of those judgeships had been vacant more than a year.

Senate tradition allows a states senator to block nominations of judges and keep the Senate Judiciary Committee from even voting on a nominee. Former President Joe Bidens office didnt nominate even one judge in Missouri, and his administration and St. Louis Democratic lawyers and political operatives blamed Hawley for refusing to compromise on a package of nominees where each party would get someone they wanted.

Hawley, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee since he became a senator in 2019, claimed he had reached a deal with the Biden White House but the administration took no action to nominate judges. Democrats also controlled the Judiciary Committee at the time, but its former chairman, Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Illinois, allowed the old tradition that let home state senators block a vote on federal judges. Other states with Republican senators reached deals with the Biden White House.

Hawley, in a news release Tuesday, said he had been working closely with President Trump to ensure appointments to Missouri vacancies are prioritized.

This country needs good district court judges now more than ever, Hawley said. We need judges that are committed to the rule of law and upholding the Constitution, and Im ecstatic to see President Trump nominate these outstanding individuals to the federal bench.

Sen. Eric Schmitt, the states junior senator and also a former Missouri attorney general, joined the Senate Judiciary Committee this year and began working with Trumps transition team in the fall to craft a list of potential nominees for the St. Louis federal court.

Schmitt applauded the nominations, noting all four worked for him when he served as attorney general. They are each of the highest integrity and qualification, Schmitt said on X. The Eastern District of Missouri will be in firm, constitutionalist hands for the next generation.

President Trumps four nominees are:

Joshua Divine, the current solicitor general of Missouri under Attorney General Andrew Bailey, Hawleys former chief counsel and a former clerk for Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. Divine is a graduate of Yale Law School and worked for Hawleys federalism unit when Hawley briefly served as Missouris attorney general.

Maria Lanahan, deputy solicitor general in Attorney General Andrew Baileys office, joining the office while Eric Schmitt  now Missouris junior U.S. senator who joined the Senate Judiciary Committee this year was attorney general. She attended the University of Chicago School of Law and clerked for the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals and was also a lawyer with St. Louis firm Thompson Coburn.

Cristian Stevens, a judge for the Missouri Court of Appeals, appointed in 2021 by former Gov. Mike Parson, and a former top aide to Schmitt when he was attorney general. Stevens attended the University of Missouri School of Law and clerked for the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals, then worked as a prosecutor in the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Missouri for 15 years. He was raised in St. Charles, is a member of the Federalist Society and led the federal investigation into the 2014 police killing of 18-year-old Michael Brown in Ferguson.

Zachary Bluestone, currently an assistant U.S. Attorney in the Eastern District of Missouri focused on violent crimes. He also was a member of the Federalist Society and came to work for the Missouri Attorney General when Hawley took office in 2017, working alongside Divine in Hawleys federalism unit. Bluestone graduated from Harvard Law School and clerked for the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals.

Bailey, who succeeded Schmitt as attorney general, noted that two of the nominees are currently employees of the Missouri Attorney Generals office.

This is a proud moment for our office and the state of Missouri, Bailey said in a statement. Josh (Divine) and Maria (Lanahan) are two of the finest legal minds in America. Their work has set the gold standard for legal excellence, and their nominations are a testament to the powerhouse team we have built in Missouri.

Mike Wolff, a retired Missouri Supreme Court judge, said the new federal judges could make St. Louis an attractive venue for conservative groups to file precedent-setting lawsuits, such as the Northern District of Texas has been. Hawleys wife, Erin Hawley, was a key lawyer in the case against common abortion drug mifepristone that chose the Texas court for its challenge. And the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals that is based in St. Louis is also very conservative, Wolff said.

People wont have to run to Texas, he said. They have themselves a whole bench here and the 8th Circuit.

Updated Wednesday, May 7, with additional details and reaction.
JEFFERSON CITY  The Missouri House added a new wrinkle to already bumpy budget negotiations Wednesday, approving a series of tax cuts that will reduce state revenues by more than $420 million.

Facing a Friday deadline to finish work on the states $50 billion spending plan, the Republican-controlled House sent Gov. Mike Kehoe legislation allowing Missourians to deduct 100% of all capital gains income reported on federal taxes from their state income taxes.

Capital gains are profits made on the sale of assets  land or stocks, for example  which have increased in value over the holding period.

The measure also would increase income limits and credit amounts for the property tax relief program known as circuit breaker as well as exempt diapers and feminine hygiene products from sales tax.

Republicans cheered the cuts, which are expected to be enacted by Kehoe.

Eliminating capital gains taxes in Missouri will free up capital (for) more productive uses, said Rep. George Hruza, R-Des Peres.

We should be happy and proud about this, added Rep. Wendy Hausman, a St. Charles County Republican, who said it will help families save money on diapers.

Democrats urged caution, saying state revenues are flattening, federal dollars are drying up and tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump could send the economy reeling.

Im not sure our budget can afford that, said Rep. Kemp Strickler, D-Kansas City.

This bill absolutely stinks, added Rep. Del Taylor, D-St. Louis.

The measure, which has already won Senate approval, was approved on a party line 102-41 vote. Ten Democrats voted present, including Reps. Steve Butz and Nick Kimble of St. Louis and Michael Burton of Lakeshire.

Kehoe said he is a big fan of the capital gains proposal.

Its a big issue to agriculture families. Im glad they got it through, Kehoe told reporters after the House vote.

Budget meeting delayed

The looming reduction in state revenues will play a role in the final round of budget talks between negotiators in the House and Senate.

A meeting between legislative budget writers to iron out differences in the blueprint was set to begin at 9 a.m. Wednesday, but House Budget Committee Chairman Dirk Deaton postponed the session until 10 p.m. Wednesday.

The Seneca Republican blamed the delay on Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Lincoln Hough, R-Springfield, saying the two had not held fruitful discussions about a compromise plan.

The Senate walked away yesterday from our talking about the conference, Deaton said.

Deaton would not offer details about any sticking points, but the Senate version of the budget includes $300 million more for school funding and erases a $50 million plan by Kehoe to fund a major expansion of the states school voucher program.

The whole budget has to fit together at the end. Its not any one thing, Deaton said. The goal has always been to have a fiscally responsible budget.

The delay sets the stage for a possibly dramatic two days of scrambling by lawmakers to meet a 6 p.m. Friday deadline to send Kehoe a budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1.

In the end its one big agreement and were not there yet, Deaton said. I know time is short.

Failure to reach an agreement by Friday would trigger a special session, which would cost taxpayers additional money.

Kehoe, a former state senator, said he wouldnt be inserting himself into the dispute.

They need to work through what they are going to do, the governor said.

Hough could not immediately be reached for comment.

Senates capital projects

The Senate spending plan is larger than the one adopted by the House last month and it grew more on Wednesday after the appropriations panel reviewed a separate package of brick-and-mortar projects.

New capital spending in the proposal tops a half of a billion dollars, up from Kehoes proposed $329 million construction plan. The House had settled on projects worth $401 million.

Included in the proposed spending is $20 million to continue a program designed to make railroad crossings safer in the wake of a deadly 2022 Amtrak crash in Mendon, Missouri.

It also includes nearly $16 million for renovations at the Jefferson Barracks National Guard center in south St. Louis County and $9 million for flood plain issues in west suburban Maryland Heights.

The Senate version offers $20 million to help Cape Girardeau redevelop the historic Haarig Commercial District, up from the $11 million set aside by the House.

When negotiations resume, budget writers will square off on the Senates decision to fully fund the formula that determines how much money school districts receive from the state.

The House sided with Kehoe on a plan that shorts the formula by $300 million after the governor said he believes the process needs to be revamped. The Senate added the money back in.

The fight over school funding was highlighted by the inclusion in the House negotiating team of Democrat Rep. Marlene Terry of north St. Louis County, who has sided with Republicans on school choice bills.

Her support could help the House and Kehoe in their quest to expand the school voucher program, where $50 million in taxpayer funds could be used to pay for private school tuition.

Other differences facing lawmakers include a Senate plan to increase funding to state universities and colleges by 3%, up from the House level of 1.5%.

The Senate version also sides with Kehoe on a plan to give long-time state employees raises worth up to 10%, up from the House plan which caps raises at 5% based on longevity.

The negotiations and tax cuts come as the state continues to have a surplus of general revenue nearing $4 billion at the end of April.

The tax cut legislation is House Bill 594.

Ezra Bitterman of the Post-Dispatch contributed to this report.
JEFFERSON CITY  St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer and Gov. Mike Kehoe discussed Rams settlement funds and downtown investment during a meeting Wednesday in the capital city.

The two leaders met in Kehoes office. Afterward, Spencer reported the two discussed ways to work together on the Rams bill (settlement), maybe leveraging some state funds in that regard.

In St. Louis, big decisions await on how to spend more than $250 million in Rams settlement money. Business leaders want a significant portion of the funds to be spent on infrastructure and development downtown, but proposals to do so have fallen apart before the Board of Aldermen.

Spencers comments raised the possibility of state funds for downtown investment, which could bolster any redevelopment effort.

Downtown redevelopment has been a focus for Kehoe, a St. Louis native who opened a state office in the city center after being sworn in this year.

Greater St. Louis Inc., the group pushing for Rams money to be used downtown, endorsed Kehoe last year.

After the meeting with Spencer, Kehoe said his team will look into it.

I think shes trying to get the most for her money out of that (Rams money), and I dont blame her for asking that question, but well look into it, he told the Post-Dispatch.

I give her kudos for at least trying to figure out a way to be a partner, he added.

Gabrielle Picard, a spokesperson for the governor, said earlier Wednesday that their discussion this morning included an emphasis on the importance of investing in downtown.

Spencer said she was meeting with officials at the Capitol Wednesday in an effort to communicate her agenda and vision for the city.

We are a creature of the state of Missouri; we wanna work with the state and were excited to do that, Spencer said.

The new mayor said she expressed to the governor the importance of the citys 1% earnings tax and capital investment in downtown St. Louis, and how important the takeover of the police department is to city residents.

Kehoe signed the takeover in March and is required to name four citizen commissioners to the new Board of Police Commissioners in June. Spencer will have the fifth seat on the board and a nonvoting member will hold the sixth seat.

We didnt talk about any specific folks to serve in those roles here today, Spencer said.

She said it was difficult to make determinations about whether the state takeover can be successful or if it was off to a bad start.

We dont have any of the candidates, Spencer said. As the mayor, Im gonna do whats right  whats best for the city, and as we move through this process, I think some more things will become clearer in the coming weeks.

With regard to the earnings tax, Spencer said she expressed how important every revenue stream is for the city to be able to operate and deliver the city services, including public safety, that our residents rely on.

Currently, legislation to weaken the earnings tax is pending in the Missouri Senate. Separate legislation that would allow developers to recoup part of the cost for converting downtown St. Louis office space into residential and retail is pending in the House.
CHICAGO  Another contestant joined the still-emerging field of Democrats vying to succeed U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin Wednesday as five-term northwest suburban U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi launched his bid, pitching himself as a radical common sense progressive to take on President Donald Trump.

A president, ignoring the Constitution, out for revenge, acting like a dictator, claiming hes a king, surrounded by billionaire backers and MAGA extremists, threatening our rights, rigging the rules to line their pockets, the 51-year-old Krishnamoorthi of Schaumburg says in his near 2-minute video announcement released Wednesday. Wrecking the economy, they profit and working people pay. Its insanity. People want to know, at this moment in this time, where is the power to fight back?

Ive spent my career standing up to bullies, whether theyve gone after our kids, our families or our country, he continues in the video. So if youre ready to turn anger into action and make America work for working people, join our campaign.

Krishnamoorthis formal announcement had been expected and it comes two weeks after the 80-year-old Durbin announced he would not seek a sixth term. It also follows announcements by Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton and U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly of Matteson that they would enter the March 17 Democratic primary.

With his bid, Krishnamoorthi injects into the race a mix of moderate policy positions such as supporting small business initiatives  in line with the ideology of many voters in his suburban district  along with progressivism as one of 19 vice chairs of the Congressional Equality Caucus, a group that promotes equality for all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

I see myself as kind of a radical common sense progressive, the one-time small business security firm owner said in an interview before his announcement.

Im a racial, religious, ethnic minority immigrant with 29 letters in my name. I identify with people who are strivers or dreamers, as single moms, the most vulnerable, LGBTQ people who have been bullied, Krishnamoorthi said. I identify myself with the small businesses who constantly feel like the playing field is unlevel for them relative to big corporations, because I myself felt that way relative to my competitors.

Krishnamoorthi also will be injecting into the race the nearly $19.5 million he has in his federal campaign fund  an amount that is tops among the states delegation in Washington  as he notably takes on Stratton, who has the backing of billionaire two-time running mate, Gov. JB Pritzker.

Far from a household name to statewide voters, Just call me Raja has long been Krishnamoorthis political campaign theme and he is maintaining it for the Senate run.

But in his biographical announcement, he seeks to connect himself to voters with a powerful and popular Illinois Democrat by pointing to his past political work for Barack Obama before he was elected president. Obama showed that Illinois will give you a shot even if you have a funny name, and, inspired by Baracks example, I was elected to Congress, he says in the video.

In a race to replace a downstate U.S. senator, the congressman from Schaumburg also sought to differentiate himself from his Chicago-area rivals by pointing out that while his family moved from New Delhi, India, when he was 3 months old, he was raised in Peoria and is a son of Peoria public schools.

Krishnamoorthi is a graduate of Princeton University and the Harvard School of Law.

In his first bid for Congress in 2012, he lost the Democratic nomination to Tammy Duckworth. Elected to the House four years later after Duckworth went to the Senate, Krishnamoorthi now seeks to become the junior partner to the future Illinois senior senator. Duckworth is backing Strattons bid.

But Krishnamoorthi has been a creature of Illinois politics. He was a volunteer for Obamas failed 2000 primary challenge to former U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush and became policy director for Obamas successful 2004 U.S. Senate run.

Krishnamoorthi then assisted in the launch of an anti-corruption unit in the Illinois attorney generals office under Lisa Madigan before serving as a deputy state treasurer under now-Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, where Kelly served as chief of staff. In his only previous statewide run, in 2010, he narrowly lost a primary bid for state comptroller before running for Congress two years later.

Before entering Congress, Krishnamoorthi ran a small business specializing in security research and development. That background led to his work in Congress to reauthorize and modernize federal programs to provide vocational and technical education opportunities.

He also helped lead an investigation into youth vaping and e-cigarettes that prompted stronger federal regulation of the products and forced Juul to reach a $439 million settlement with dozens of states over allegations the company targeted young people in its advertising.

A member of the House Intelligence Committee and the House Oversight Committee, Krishnamoorthi has long pursued to toughen limits on lead in baby foods and was a longtime critic of Purdue Pharma over its role in peddling Oxycontin. The firm went bankrupt in 2021, but its owners agreed to pay billions of dollars worth of opioid-abuse claims.

In 2024, Krishnamoorthi helped spearhead controversial legislation to force the Chinese internet company ByteDance to sell its popular social media app TikTok. The legislation became law but Trump has so far delayed enforcing it.

In recent days, Krishnamoorthi has warned Irish low-cost airline Ryanair to not buy Chinese-made aircrafts. The move came amid concerns over intellectual property theft after the airlines CEO said it was an alternative to canceling orders for Boeing 737 jets with an increased price tag due to Trumps imposition of tariffs. Krishnamoorthi is the top Democrat on the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party.

Now we have, perhaps, the biggest bully of them all, Donald Trump, and I have a track record of standing up to bullies and I can stand up to him as well, he said in his pre-announcement interview.

Assailing the chaos of Trumps early second term and resulting economic uncertainty, Krishnamoorthi said government should be an indispensable partner in helping people realize their economic dreams and their potential.

I believe that with every fiber of my body that right now, whether youre working poor, whether youre middle class, whether youre growing a business, we want everyone to succeed in this country and the government needs to be there to help however it can, he said in the interview.

Krishnamoorthi on Friday is scheduled to hold the first official events of his campaign with stops in Peoria, Chicago and Schaumburg.
JEFFERSON CITY  A conservative bloc of Republicans temporarily torpedoed a $70 million plan aimed at addressing the affordability of child care in Missouri.

Despite a push by GOP Gov. Mike Kehoe and the states powerful business lobby to boost the number of day care slots through a series of tax credits, opponents argued Tuesday night that taxpayers should not incentivize parents to spend time away from their children.

People think were living in some kind of utopia where government can solve every problem, said Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, R-Arnold. I dont think we should be socializing this. I dont think government should be taking over another industry.

Sen. Jill Carter, R-Granby, said her husband worked two jobs while she stayed home to raise her children.

And, Sen. Curtis Trent, R-Springfield, questioned why taxpayers should subsidize child care businesses when there is a high demand for their services.

The package, which was earlier approved by the House as part of an unfinished agenda item from former Gov. Mike Parsons administration, was pulled from consideration after Coleman stalled action on the measure by reading Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder.

The initiative could return for further debate before the Legislature is scheduled to adjourn next week, but its prospects remain in flux after a similar plan was rejected last year.

The proposal would add a tax credit allowing those who donate to child care providers to receive a credit equal to 75% of their donation and must not exceed $200,000 in annual tax credits.

Employers who help their workers with child care costs could claim tax credits equal to 30% of qualifying expenses.

A third tax credit would help child care providers expand or upgrade their facilities.

Sen. Sandy Crawford, R-Buffalo, who carried the bill on the Senate floor, said there are protections for taxpayers included in the legislation.

All these projects have to be approved by the state, Crawford said.

In one of his first acts after being sworn into office in January, Kehoe issued an executive order calling on state school officials to improve the state regulatory environment for child care facilities and homes.

The push to expand child care comes as business groups say Missouris economy loses an estimated $1.35 billion annually  including $280 million in lost tax revenue  because of a lack of affordable child care.

The pandemic also gutted the industry as people stayed home with their children while working remotely. The number of day care slots has taken a hit and rising prices have frustrated working parents.

Supporters say improving the states child care infrastructure is as important for economic growth as having roads and adequate utilities.

Coleman, a first-term senator who is not running for reelection, expressed disappointment that the Senate had earlier dropped consideration of a pro-gun rights bill to take up the tax credit proposal.

This is absolutely insane to me, Coleman said. Its really obscene. Here we are passing a child care tax credit?

Among her complaints was language in the legislation she suggested could allow a piano teacher or an after-school tutor to claim the tax credit.

It doesnt seem clear to me at all, Coleman said.

Coleman proposed an amendment that would provide tax credits to stay-at-home parents, saying they should benefit too. It died on a 10-18 vote and she announced she would work to kill the entire bill.

A similar child tax credit proposal received bipartisan support in the House in 2024 but also fell victim to Republican infighting in the Senate.

The legislation is House Bill 269.
U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s motto is Make America Healthy Again, but government cuts could make it harder to know whether thats happening.

More than a dozen data-gathering programs that track deaths and disease appear to have been eliminated in the tornado of layoffs and proposed budget cuts rolled out by the Trump administration.

The Associated Press examined draft and final budget proposals and spoke to more than a dozen current and former federal employees to determine the scope of the cuts to programs tracking basic facts about Americans health.

Among those terminated at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were experts tracking abortions, pregnancies, job-related injuries, lead poisonings, sexual violence and youth smoking, the AP found.

If you dont have staff, the program is gone, said Patrick Breysse, who oversaw the CDCs environmental health programs.

Federal officials havent given a public accounting of specific surveillance programs being eliminated.

Instead, a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services spokeswoman pointed the AP to a Trump administration budget proposal released Friday. It lacks specifics, but proposes to cut the CDCs core budget by more than half and vows to focus CDC surveillance only on emerging and infectious diseases.

Kennedy says some of the CDCs other work will be moved to a yet-to-be-created agency, the Administration for a Healthy America. He also says the cuts are designed to get rid of waste at a department that had its budget grow in recent years.

Unfortunately, this extra spending and staff has not improved our nations health as a country, Kennedy wrote last month in The New York Post. Instead, it has only created more waste, administrative bloat and duplication.

Some health experts say the eliminated programs are not duplicative, and erasing them will leave Americans in the dark.

If the U.S. is interested in making itself healthier again, how is it going to know, if it cancels the programs that helps us understand these diseases? said Graham Mooney, a Johns Hopkins University public health historian.

The core of the nations health surveillance is done by the CDCs National Center for Health Statistics. Relying on birth and death certificates, it generates information on birth rates, death trends and life expectancy. It also operates longstanding health surveys that provide basic data on obesity, asthma and other health issues.

The center has been barely touched in layoffs, and seems intact under current budget plans.

But many other efforts were targeted by the cuts, the AP found. Some examples:

Pregnancies and abortion

The Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System, which surveys women across the country, lost its entire staff  about 20 people.

Its the most comprehensive collection of data on the health behaviors and outcomes before, during and after childbirth. Researchers used its data to investigate the nations maternal mortality problem.

Recent layoffs also wiped out the staffs collecting data on in vitro fertilizations and abortions.

Those cuts are especially surprising given that President Donald Trump said he wants to expand IVF access and that the Heritage Foundations Project 2025 playbook for his administration called for more abortion surveillance.

Lead poisoning

The CDC eliminated its program on lead poisoning in children, which helped local health departments  through funding and expertise  investigate lead poisoning clusters and find where risk is greatest.

Lead poisoning in kids typically stems from exposure to bits of old paint, contaminated dust or drinking water that passes through lead pipes. The programs staff also played an important role in the investigation of lead-tainted applesauce that affected 500 kids.

Last year, Milwaukee health officials became aware that peeling paint in aging local elementary schools was endangering kids. The city health department worked with the CDC to test tens of thousands of students. That assistance stopped last month when the CDCs lead program staff was terminated.

City officials are particularly concerned about losing expertise to help them track the long-term effects.

We dont know what we dont know, said Mike Totoraitis, the citys health commissioner.

Environmental probes

Also gone is the staff for the 23-year-old Environmental Public Health Tracking Program, which had information on concerns including possible cancer clusters and weather-related illnesses.

The loss of that program is going to greatly diminish the ability to make linkages between what might be in the environment and what health might be affected by that, Breysse said.

Transgender data

In some cases, its not a matter of staffers leaving, but rather the end of specific types of data collection.

Transgender status is no longer being recorded in health-tracking systems, including ones focused on violent deaths and on risky behaviors by kids.

Experts know transgender people are more likely to be victims of violence, but now its going to be much more challenging to quantify the extent to which they are at higher risk, said Thomas Simon, the recently retired senior director for scientific programs at the CDCs Division of Violence Prevention.

Violence

The staff and funding seems to have remained intact for a CDC data collection that provides insights into homicides, suicides and accidental deaths involving weapons.

But CDC violence-prevention programs that acted on that information were halted. So, too, was work on a system that collects hospital data on nonfatal injuries from causes such as shootings, crashes and drownings.

Also going away, apparently, is the CDCs National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey. The system is designed to pick up information not found in law enforcement statistics. Health officials see that work as important, because not all sexual violence victims go to police.

Work injuries

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, which tracks job-related illnesses and deaths and makes recommendations on how to prevent them, was gutted by the cuts.

Kennedy says 20% of the people laid off might be reinstated as the agency tries to correct mistakes.

That appeared to happen last month, when the American Federation of Government Employees said NIOSH workers involved in a black lung disease program for coal miners were temporarily called back.

HHS officials did not answer questions about the reinstatement. The AFGEs Micah Niemeier-Walsh later said the workers continued to have June termination dates and we are concerned this is to give the appearance that the programs are still functioning, when effectively they are not.

Theres been no talk of salvaging some other NIOSH programs, including one focused on workplace deaths in the oil and gas industries or a research project into how common hearing loss is in that industry.

Smoking and drugs

The HHS cuts eliminated the 17-member team responsible for the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, one of the main ways the government measures drug use.

Also axed were the CDC staff working on the National Youth Tobacco Survey.

There are other surveys that look at youth smoking and drug use, including the University of Michigans federally funded Monitoring the Future survey of schoolkids.

But the federal studies looked at both adults and adolescents, and provided insights into drug use by high school dropouts. The CDC also delved into specific vaping and tobacco products in the ways that other surveys dont, and was a driver in the federal push to better regulate electronic cigarettes.

There was overlap among the surveys, but each one had its own specific focus that the other ones didnt cover, said Richard Miech, who leads the Michigan study.

Data modernization

Work to modernize data collection has been derailed. That includes an upgrade to a 22-year-old system that helps local public health departments track diseases and allows CDC to put together a national picture.

Another casualty was the Center for Forecasting and Outbreak Analytics, which tries to predict disease trends.

The center, created during the COVID-19 pandemic, worked on forecasting the current multi-state measles outbreak. That forecast hasnt been published partly because of the layoffs, according to two CDC officials who spoke on condition of anonymity because they fear retribution for speaking to the media.

Trump hasnt always supported widespread testing of health problems.

In the spring of 2020, when COVID-19 diagnoses were exploding, the president groused that the nations ability to do more testing made the U.S. look like it had a worse problem than other countries. He called testing a double-edged sword.

Mooney, the Johns Hopkins historian, wonders how interested the new administration is in reporting on health problems.

You could think its deliberate, he said. If you keep people from knowing, theyre less likely to be concerned.
MACAO, May 6 (Xinhua) -- The tourism office of China's Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government said on Tuesday that, according to preliminary statistics, the SAR had welcomed 849,819 visitors on May 1-5, a 40.7 percent increase compared to last year.

The average number of daily visitors was around 170,000, exceeding the 158,000 daily average from 2019, the office said, noting on May 2, the number of visitors reached nearly 222,000, setting a new record for the highest single-day visitor arrival since the pandemic.

Industry sources also revealed that the average hotel occupancy rate in Macao during the holiday period was 94.1 percent, an increase of five percentage points compared to last year.
News / National

by Staff reporter

Kwekwe Mayor Albert Zinhanga has addressed growing concerns over a reported outbreak of bed bugs (commonly known as tsikidzi) in the city, confirming that the issue is confined to specific areas within two suburbs.Speaking to the media, Mayor Zinhanga clarified that while the City of Kwekwe has intensified fumigation efforts, the infestation is not citywide but rather restricted to targeted sections of Mbizo Section 7 and Amaveni."As the City of Kwekwe, we have been carrying out regular fumigation, particularly in the affected areas of Mbizo Section 7 and Amaveni," he said. "However, I want to clarify that the outbreak is limited to specific parts of these suburbs  it is not the entire Amaveni or all of Mbizo 7, but only certain sections where the bed bugs have been found."City health teams have been deployed to the affected zones to carry out fumigation and raise public awareness about hygiene and preventive measures. Residents have been urged to cooperate with municipal teams and report any further signs of infestation.The outbreak has sparked concern among locals, with some calling for broader preventive action in other high-density suburbs to avoid further spread. Bed bugs, which thrive in crowded and unhygienic environments, are notoriously difficult to eliminate once an infestation is established.Mayor Zinhanga emphasized the importance of community involvement in the city's efforts to contain the situation. He also indicated that the council is considering additional interventions, including public health education campaigns and increased surveillance in nearby areas.The city continues to monitor the situation and has assured residents that all necessary steps are being taken to bring the outbreak under control.
I own a professional counseling company in St. Louis. All 15 of my staff are W2, commission based. They enjoy commission-based work  getting to control their own schedules, when they schedule off, and ultimately, how much money they make. I insure them for the big things, and they personally save for vacation time and illness. They like the autonomy.

Proposition A, passed by Missouri's voters last November, requires businesses to provide paid sick leave to employees.

As a business, I cannot afford sick leave. I am now faced with changing the split (meaning less money to my staff every month) or closing. If I change nothing, but pay out sick leave at my staff's current hourly rate, I will go out of business. I have been open for 13 years, even making it through the COVID years.

Sick leave is generally a good idea for salaried employees, but it is an awful idea for commission-based work. It does not fit the business model. My employees are happy, my retention is fantastic, and most of the time my staff can take a sick day and see those clients later in the week when they feel well again.

Sick time is not a hardship for us now, but it will be with mandated sick leave. Im asking Missouri legislators to please pass pending legislation to repeal some provisions of Prop A. ("Republicans hold up action on downtown St. Louis improvements over new sick leave laws," May 1.) Missouri should not "fix" something for us that is not broken.

Alicia Seidler

St. Louis
In the face of a warming climate, rising inequality, and increasing geopolitical instability, the concept of resilience has never been more critical - or more complex.

With that in mind, global leaders gathered in Washington, DC, last week with a clear goal: to make resilience science practical and accessible. But doing so is no simple task.

Resilience is a nice word, noted Jorge Gastelumendi, the senior director of the Atlantic Council's Climate Resilience Center and a participant at the workshop, but when you start to break it down it gets complicated. This is an opportunity to have a conversation about this framework and for us to learn from it.

That spirit of mutual learning and co-creation shaped From Insights to Impact, a high-level workshop where more than 50 experts from science, policy, and finance came together to stress-test a new tool: the Resilience Science Must-Knowsa set of distilled, evidence-based insights meant to drive more effective, coordinated action in the face of accelerating climate disruption.

The workshop was co-organised by the Global Resilience Partnership, Stockholm Resilience Centre at Stockholm University, Future Earth, the Atlantic Councils Climate Resilience Centre, and the Resilience Hub. The half-day event marked a pivotal moment in the development of the Resilience Science Must-Knows, helping to inform the forthcoming science report on the Must-Knows designed to guide policy, finance, and practice in building resilience.

Turning Knowledge into Action

Similar to the 10 New Insights in Climate Science report, the Must-Knows aim to distill complex academic research into key messages that are clear, relevant, and ready to use. But its ambition goes further. The Must-Knows are intended to lay the foundation for an additional policy report, the Road to Action, that will support decision-making across sectors and serve as a tool for transformation, not just adaptation.

What makes this initiative truly distinctive is not only the quality of science, but that science is being applied, Nigar Arpadarai, the UNs High-Level Champion for COP29, said during the event. Leaders like you are testing, translating, and contextualising these insights ensuring that science becomes practical, usable, and aligned with the real-world decisions that shape our future.

Deputy Director of the Stockholm Resilience Centre, Lisen Schultz, facilitated the days discussions, which were bookended by remarks from the Atlantic Councils Jorge Gastelumendi and presentations from Cibele Queiroz, knowledge director at the Global Resilience Partnership and researcher at the Stockholm Resilience Centre, and Anastasia Brainich, the policy director at the Global Resilience Partnership.

Refining the Must-Knows

Participants were first introduced to a long list of 13 draft Must-Knows that were organized into four categories: what resilience is, why it matters, what fosters it, and what needs to be considered. Through an interactive ranking process, six of the Must-Knows were prioritized for deeper exploration. These covered everything from the importance of anticipatory capacity to the role of inclusive finance.

Feedback was wide-ranging and constructive. Participants flagged missing perspectives, confusing terminology, and challenges in applying certain concepts across sectors. But they also shared rich insights from their work, spanning locally led adaptation, nature-based solutions, foresight and scenario planning, and climate finance, that helped connect the Must-Knows to real-world practice.

This is not a call to simply validate the science Arpadarai said. It's a call to ensure that it lands where it matters most, in broad rooms, in ministries, in capital flows, in the investment that touches people's hearts

From Dialogue to Delivery

In the second part of the workshop, the focus shifted to implementation. Participants were invited to select two Must-Knows they felt faced the greatest barriers in their work and explore why. Discussions revealed persistent tensions: between short-term profits and long-term resilience, between global frameworks and local realities, and between data-driven decisions and the need for inclusive, justice-oriented approaches.

Participants emphasized that building resilience requires a shift from reactive responses to proactive investments, from siloed efforts to systemic thinking, and from top-down mandates to community-driven innovation.

The day concluded with a presentation of the Road to Action, a process that will further unpack the Must-Knows through sectoral deep dives and inform the final Resilience Action Guide to be launched at COP30.

Whats Next?

The feedback gathered at the workshop will go directly to the editorial board, who will integrate it into their ongoing work of revising the Resilience Science Must-Knows. Additional workshops planned for participants in Latin America and the Caribbean, Africa, and Asia will continue the validation process in May, followed by further engagements throughout the year, including during London Climate Action Week, at UNFCCCs Africa Regional Climate Week, Climate Week NYC, and at COP30 in Belem, Brazil.

By embedding science in the lived experience of practitioners, financiers, and policymakers, this initiative aims to help reframe resilience not as a buzzword, but as a practical, informed pathway to a more secure and sustainable future.
Two female pilots prepare to flight test the AIRUS system at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C. (U.S. Air Force photo)



During more than a century of manned flight, a nagging problem has been how to answer natures call when up in the wild blue yonder.

Modern fighter jets such as the F-15 Eagle top out at more than 1,900 miles per hour, though the technology for bladder relief for single and dual-seat aircraft pilots strapped into an ejector seat has lagged.

The problem is a bigger challenge for a growing segment of Air Force flight crews  the 118 female fighter pilots in jets such as the F-15 Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcon, F-22 Raptor, F-35 Lightning II and A-10 Thunderbolt II, as well as female weapons systems operators flying in two-seat variants.

Air Force airman connects the AIRUS in-flight bladder relief system at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C., in 2024. (Airman 1st Class Rebecca Sirimar)



Ive flown sorties where I end up covered in my own urine, said Capt. Madeleine Poisson, a F-15 weapons system officer with the 48th Wing based in England.

Prior to January, options for female pilots and weapons system operators for bladder relief in aircraft included adult diapers and a piddle pack sleeve that required unstrapping from the seat, unzipping the lower part of their uniform, and applying a synthetic sock-like funnel to their body.

There was also a pump system that was not suited to women compared to the men, for whom it was designed.

Along with the discomfort of flying wet, at least two crashes  both involving male pilots  in the past three decades have been linked to faulty systems or pilot error while attempting in-flight relief, according to the Air Force.

But male and female pilots have some relief arriving with a new system developed under the Sky High Relief Challenge issued by AFWERX, the services idea incubator program based at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio.

The program tries to solve key issues at an accelerated timetable compared to the sometimes glacial pace of normal military procurement. Instead of years, ideas can get approved in as little as six months.

For the challenge, the directive was to come up with something better suited for female flight crews then the diapers, piddle pack or pump.

From more than 50 submissions in 2020, the Air Force narrowed the field of solutions to 24, then chose 11 companies to receive $1.5 million in design prizes to advance their ideas.

Its energizing and inspiring to see how government, industry, and academia come together to roll up their sleeves and dive deep into problem solving, said Cayley Dymond, the AFWERX challenge program leader.

The Air Force settled in 2021 on the idea from Airion Health, a Los Angeles start-up company, to prototype its solution to the challenge.

The winning idea essentially reverse-engineered the bladder relief problem, coming up with what the Air Force termed a biocompatible system that could be used by female flight crews, then adapting it to male pilots as well.

Air Force Col. Samantha Weeks renders a final salute during a change of command ceremony in 2018 at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada. Weeks is now retired from the service. (U.S. Air Force photo)



Airions final product was named the Advanced Inflight Relief Universal System, or AIRUS.

Its a form-fitting, self-cleaning underwear system using a small pump with soft tubing that directs waste to a custom-made biofluid bag. Pilots control the system with a remote hand controller and simply unplug the bag from the tubing at the end of missions for disposal.

Airion co-founder Colt Seman, who worked in the baby product industry, said bringing a female perspective to the project from the start would be a key to winning the challenge.

We knew it was imperative to assemble a design team of women, including medical professionals, pilots, and flight engineers, Seman said. AIRUS is a product designed by women, for women.

Full system development started in March 2022 after an initial $2.5 million contract was awarded to Airion Health by the Air Force.

After testing in 2023, flights with female flight crews in F-15s at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in North Carolina began in 2024. The last tweaks to the AIRUS design wrapped up in November, and the final version of the system was ready in January.

The AIRUS system is available for purchase by squadrons via the General Services Administration website. The base price is about $4,000 per kit, which are requisitioned by squadrons for the pilots and flight officers.

The primary challenge centered on a system that could be used by women, and there are multiple-sized cup attachments for different female body types. But the system also offers two variants built for the male anatomy as well.

Through the end of April, about 50 AIRUS units have been deployed and more than 100 are in the pipeline, said Matthew Clouse, an AFWERX spokesman at Wright-Patterson AFB. Orders are coming in for both males and females in units.

The cost to date of developing and fielding AIRUS is about $4.5 million, Clouse said.

The Pentagon also plans to adapt the system for use by Navy and Marine jet pilots, along with Army helicopter crews. Eventually, the system could be sold to allied nations.

Retired Air Force Col. Samantha Weeks graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado in 1993 and logged 2,200 flying hours in F-15Cs, F-16s and T-38 Talons  including 105 combat hours enforcing no-fly zones in the Middle East. She was the first woman to command an F-16 fighter wing and flew the key solo slot with the Air Forces elite Thunderbirds aerial demonstration team.

Weeks said she has been involved since 2000 in Defense Department efforts to advance flight equipment for female pilots. In 2018, she made a video about how to choose and use a piddle pack.

At times, there were females at wings or in squadrons who didnt have someone to ask how does this work, what do I do, where can your purchase this type of flight suit, or this brand of piddle pack, she said.

Weeks retired from the Air Force in 2020 but remains involved in the Defense Department efforts to improve equipment for female aircrews. She hopes AIRUS will cut back on the longtime practice of pilots  particularly women  simply avoiding fluids before flying.

Tactical dehydration - I hate this term, Weeks said. Any person saying they tactically dehydrate not to urinate is really just reducing their physical and cognitive abilities, and that has no place in combat.

Air Force studies have shown the practice puts a pilots physical and mental wellbeing at risk. Air Force researchers have found being dehydrated can cut a pilots ability to tolerate gravitational force by as much as half. The lower tolerance can cause pilots to experience G-induced Loss of Consciousness  known as GLOC.

The lack of liquids can also cause vertigo-like loss of situational awareness, blurred vision, memory lapses, and headaches. Pilots who dehydrate repeatedly during their career can develop kidney problems, urinary infections, and suffer from long-term incontinence.

The issues have become more pressing as military aviation has advanced with long-range missions using in-flight refueling that can keep the pilot of a fighter or attack aircraft in the air for up to 16 hours, the Air Force said.

I am glad to see AIRUS hit the market, Weeks said. I hope other needs for proper fitting equipment for women continues to have support.

She said the anthropometric data  measurements for the size, shape, and weight of pilot and flight officer equipment  is based on a 1967 study using only men. Revisions since 2008 have updated some of the gear.

AIRUS is part of finding solutions for female pilots that can also benefit male pilots  a crucial step in meeting pilot recruiting goals and aiding in the national defense.

Expedient production of female aviator gear initiatives will maximize the combat lethality and readiness of all military services, Weeks said.

Poisson, the F-15 weapons system officer, is a happy early adopter of the AIRUS system.

Oh, I love it, she said. Hands down, the best system that Ive seen. I can leave it in while flying, its relatively comfortable, and you have the ability to put it in and take it out while flying. Theres no decrease in my capabilities during the mission.
Gen. Ronald Clark, commander of U.S. Army Pacific, center, visits Camp Humphreys, South Korea, April 10, 2025. (Caelum Astra/U.S. Army)



The United States military partnerships in the Indo-Pacific are expected to remain stable despite recent economic uncertainty, the head of U.S. Army Pacific said Wednesday.

Gen. Ronald Clark, commander of U.S. Army Pacific, said decades of military cooperation have built relationships strong enough to endure political and economic fluctuations in Washington.

I would offer that its the military-to-military ties that allow us to overcome some of the other challenges we may have in government-to-government coordination or policy, Clark said during a virtual news conference from Hawaii.

President Donald Trump paused a series of major tariffs on some U.S. trading partners for 90 days on April 9. However, he kept in place a 10% global tariff and a 145% tariff on all goods imported from China.

The policy, first announced on April 2, has unsettled markets and raised concerns among U.S. allies, who are also facing pressure from Trump to boost their defense spending.

Clark spoke for nearly 30 minutes ahead of the Armys Land Forces Pacific Symposium, scheduled for May 13-15 in Honolulu. He addressed questions about regional cooperation and tension in the South China Sea.

Reflecting on his previous roles in the region, including as chief of staff for U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, Clark said he was encouraged by the level of partnership he has seen since returning to lead Army Pacific.

The challenges posed by unspecified aggressors are pulling like-minded nations together in a way that we had not seen before, he said.

While Clark did not name China, the remark appeared to reference Beijing, which has attempted to use U.S. tariffs to build closer economic ties with its neighbors.

The Department of Defense considers China its primary strategic competitor in the region. Beijing claims nearly the entire South China Sea, including areas also claimed by the Philippines, a U.S. ally. The department also views North Korea and Russia as key regional concerns.

Clark addressed a recent flare-up between China and the Philippines over three sandbars in the Spratly Islands. Both countries posted images of their national flags planted on the disputed features, known as Sandy Cay, on social media, The Associated Press reported April 29.

Im not going to speak for the government of the Philippines and what actions they may take in this case, but again, as a treaty ally, we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with them as they work through their challenges, Clark said, not just features in the South China Sea, but their sovereign territory at large.
DENVER (Tribune News Service)  The Fort Carson staff sergeant who was at a Colorado Springs illegal nightclub during a large-scale federal raid April 27 and arrested days later on suspicion of cocaine distribution will proceed to trial, a judge ruled Tuesday.

Juan Gabriel Orona-Rodriguez, 27, is facing one federal count each of distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Court records show that Orona-Rodriguezs alleged offenses started no later than Sept. 16, 2024, and continued to at least April 9.

Court records also show Orona-Rodriguez allegedly worked as armed security at the illegal Colorado Springs nightclub  identified as Warike. The early morning raid resulted in 105 arrests, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Officials said 300 law enforcement agents from multiple agencies participated in the raid, including Colorado Springs police, and the El Paso and Douglas County sheriffs offices.

Orona-Rodriguez was one of 17 soldiers at the nightclub  among around 200 partygoers, officials said. He previously received counseling from his commanding officer at Fort Carson to discontinue his work through the company Immortal Security, where he was alleged to be in a leadership position, according to his arrest affidavit.

Similar to his initial appearance May 1, Orona-Rodriguez appeared calm as he sat in federal court Tuesday morning awaiting his preliminary hearing.

Prosecutor Peter McNeilly called FBI special agent Ethan Doherty as the only witness . Doherty testified he assisted in the April 22 prearranged undercover $450 purchase of 0.5 of an ounce of cocaine sold to a previous buyer of Orona-Rodriguez.

Doherty testified the buyer was contacted by the FBI to assist in the undercover sale, but he was unsure if that person was offered protection from prosecution for their cooperation.

Magistrate Judge Susan Prose asked Doherty to elaborate on what amount of illicit drugs rises to the level of distribution intent. Doherty testified while 0.5 of an ounce is on the lower end, it does exceed the amount law enforcement outlines for personal use. It was noted the amount overall Orona-Rodriguez is accused of possessing and distributing was lower than what a federal courthouse typically sees in cases.

In addition to assisting with the undercover sale, Doherty testified he assisted in drafting the initial arrest plan for Orona-Rodriguez, who was taken into custody April 30 on at Fort Carson. He said that Orona-Rodriguez did not resist arrest and cooperated during a subsequent interview with law enforcement.

During cross-examination, Doherty testified he was not the lead investigator on the case and had not personally examined the phone records included in the initial complaint and affidavit. His testimony Tuesday was based on his review of records completed by another federal agent.

Orona-Rodriguezs defense attorney Stephanie Snyder asked Doherty about search warrants executed on the house, vehicle and place of employment for the defendant. Doherty testified he did not know if any of the discussed drug distribution sales ever came to fruition, or if anything of evidentiary value was recovered during searches warrants. No evidence about financial records connected to the case was presented Tuesday.

While no charges have been filed against Orona-Rodriguez for allegedly working as armed security at the illegal Colorado Springs nightclub, his relationship with the owner was brought up in the courtroom Tuesday.

Was lease contract for raided Colorado Springs property breached?

The gathering that was raided at an underground nightclub in Colorado Springs early Sunday was held without the owners permission and in violation of a rental agreement, according to the property owner.

Virginia Thorne, who was allegedly responsible for running the raided nightclub after leasing from property owner Mike Moon, is the mother-in-law to Orona-Rodriguez. She is known to run other nightclubs, Doherty testified, based on interviews completed shortly after the soldiers arrest.

As of Tuesday afternoon, no charges have been filed against Thorne, according to court records. She previously spoke with Gazette reporters, but refused to talk on the record.

At the conclusion of preliminary hearing, Prose ruled that prosecutors had enough substantial evidence to proceed toward a jury trial.

Orona-Rodriguezs preliminary hearing preceded a detention hearing at which his defense argued for his release on condition  citing his lack of criminal record and the eight years hes spent in the military. Snyder argued Orona-Rodriguez should be released back to his home, which was searched and cleared, so he can continue to serve in his stepfather role for two young children with his wife under pre-trial supervision.

McNeilly agreed the circumstances Snyder laid out would typically be ideal for release, but argued Orona-Rodriguez and his wifes alleged involvement with the illegal Warike nightclub pose a public safety threat. Orona-Rodriguezs wife allegedly worked at the club, searching people for weapons before entry.

No decision about a potential release was made Tuesday. Orona-Rodriguez was transferred back to the Jefferson County jail, where he remains on a no-bond hold. His next appearance in federal court to continue his detention hearing is scheduled May 15.

 2025 The Gazette (Colorado Springs, Colo.).

Visit www.gazette.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Conn. (David M. Santos/U.S. Coast Guard)



NEW LONDON, Conn. (Tribune News Service)  A 30th sexual assault complaint was filed Tuesday against the U.S. Coast Guard, a law firm representing former Coast Guard Academy cadets announced.

Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight said it filed the latest claim under the Federal Tort Claims Act, as it had in the 29 previous cases involving former cadets it represents, including 26 women, two men and one non-binary individual.

The firm filed 13 claims last September, followed by nine claims in October and seven this past March.

The former cadet in the complaint filed Tuesday, referred to as Jane Doe 30, alleges she was sexually assaulted by a classmate at the academy and later was repeatedly tormented, causing her emotional distress that forced her to withdraw from the school, the law firm said.

According to a redacted version of the complaint, provided by the firm, the woman continues to suffer from anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress syndrome, or PTSD.

Todays additional filing demonstrates that there are more academy survivors out there and that they keep coming forward, Christine Dunn, a Sanford Heisler partner, said in a news release. Each time another sexual assault survivor speaks out, it amplifies the demand for justice and accountability.

The Coast Guard did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The latest complaint alleges the Coast Guards failure to implement adequate policies and practices allowed sexual violence to go unchecked at the academy, resulting in harm to the woman. It further alleges the Coast Guard condoned and actively concealed the rampant nature of sexual assault and harassment of academy students, knowingly placing the woman and other cadets in danger.

Under the FTCA, individuals may bring legal claims against federal agencies for acts committed by their employees. Before filing a lawsuit in court, an individual must first file an administrative complaint with the agency allegedly at fault. The agency then has six months to investigate the claim.

The earliest claims were filed more that six months ago.

However, in FTCA cases, the agency often takes longer than six months to investigate, Dunn said in an email. Here, we have recently filed additional complaints. We expect the Coast Guard will consider all the complaints collectively, to some extent. Therefore, we arent surprised that this process is taking longer than six months.

Sanford Heisler has filed all of the claims against the Coast Guard; its parent agency, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security; and its former parent agency, the U.S. Department of Transportation. The claims, each of which seeks $10 million in damages, are believed to be the first collective action by sexual violence survivors against a U.S. service academy.

The complaints have come in the wake of the Coast Guards mishandling of Operation Fouled Anchor, its internal investigation of decades of sexual misconduct at the academy. CNN, the cable news network, revealed the existence of the report in 2023, prompting hearings and ongoing investigations by congressional panels.

 2025 The Day (New London, Conn.).

Visit www.theday.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
A U.S. Navy sailor told a Japanese court on May 7, 2025, that he made an illegal turn near Yokosuka Naval Base on Sept. 18, 2024, causing a fatal collision. (Akifumi Ishikawa/Stars and Stripes)



YOKOSUKA, Japan  A U.S. Navy sailor pleaded no contest Wednesday in a Japanese court to causing the death of a motorcyclist in a collision near Yokosuka Naval Base last year. He may face up to 18 months in prison.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Jaden Edwin Llanos, 22, admitted making an illegal right turn on Sept. 18 at an intersection near the base, striking motorcyclist Tsubasa Ito, 22, who died shortly after the collision.

Prosecutors recommended an 18-month prison sentence if Llanos is found guilty when he returns to Yokohama District Courts Yokosuka Branch on May 27. His defense lawyers requested a suspended sentence.

Llanos, assigned to the amphibious command ship USS Blue Ridge, told the court he saw signage prohibiting right turns but misunderstood a second sign that he believed indicated the turn was legal. He and several passengers were headed to a sushi restaurant around 6:40 p.m. when the collision occurred.

Ito died less than an hour later at Yokosuka Kyosai Hospital from heart damage caused by a chest injury, prosecutors said.

Llanos acknowledged his responsibility and has reflected sincerely, his lawyers said. He also attended Itos wake and funeral, offered condolences to the family, and paid condolence money.

Dashcam footage from a nearby vehicle, presented as evidence, showed the collision. The video prompted quiet sobs from Itos parents, who sat with prosecutors. They were not identified.

Llanos testified he did not see Itos motorcycle, which struck the left side of his vehicle, though he did see headlights from an oncoming car.

Prosecutors questioned Llanos about his driving after the accident. Though he told the court he stopped driving, he later admitted to using his girlfriends car on base several times a week for about two months.

Even though he has acquired a permit to drive, one can tell that he doesnt have a full understanding of traffic rules, and it is highly possible he could cause another accident, prosecutors said in their closing statement.

Llanos repeatedly apologized during the three-hour hearing. Itos parents, however, said they did not feel he was remorseful.

Not a single teardrop, Itos father said, referring to Llanos presence at his sons funeral.

My son was just 22  he lived only a quarter of his life, the father said in a statement to the court. When I think of that, I feel I should have died instead of Tsubasa.

Llanos and his command offered about $2,100 in condolence money, in addition to approximately $210,000 insurance payment received by the family.

In his final statement, Llanos expressed deep regret.

I have no words to describe it  Im truly, deeply sorry, he told Itos parents. I truly wish your son could come home and tell you how much he loves you. Nothing like this will ever happen again.
News / National

by Staff reporter

A Kwekwe resident, Emmanuel Nkosilathi Moyo, has written to the Speaker of Parliament, Jacob Mudenda, urging the legislature to launch an investigation into allegations of money laundering and corruption involving controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo, a close ally of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.In a formal petition, Moyo called on Parliament to exercise its constitutional oversight role over public funds by probing the murky financial dealings behind the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC)'s US$100 million tender awarded ahead of the 2023 general elections.The tender, awarded to South African firm Ren-Form CC with Chivayo reportedly acting as a key intermediary, has come under intense scrutiny following revelations from South Africa's Financial Intelligence Centre (SAFIC). The SAFIC report suggests that Chivayo received R800 million (approximately US$44 million) of the R1.2 billion (US$66 million) tender value, with significant red flags pointing to money laundering and criminal activity.Moyo's petition cites Sections 119, 298 and 299 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, which empower Parliament to oversee government expenditure and ensure accountability. He also referenced Standing Orders of both Houses - Standing Order 159(2) of the National Assembly and 149(2) of the Senate  as mechanisms through which legislators can initiate investigations."The Parliament of Zimbabwe must exercise its constitutional mandate to scrutinise the Ministry of Finance and the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe regarding the flow of public funds into this dubious transaction," Moyo wrote in the petition. "It must also investigate the use of multiple accounts and suspicious transactions by Chivayo and his associated companies."According to SAFIC, Chivayo moved the funds through major South African banks - FNB, Standard Bank and Absa - using a network of personal and corporate accounts to make rapid transfers, withdrawals, and purchases. The money allegedly funded luxury lifestyles, including designer clothing, high-end vehicles, electronic gadgets, real estate, and lavish international travel.Audio recordings and documents reportedly detail how Chivayo distributed bribes and kickbacks to influential individuals to facilitate the deal. Those named include the Office of the President and Cabinet, Chief Secretary to the President Martin Rushwaya, President Mnangagwa's daughter Chido, ZEC chairperson Priscilla Chigumba, former CIO Director-General Isaac Moyo, and businessman Pedzisayi "Scott" Sakupwanya.Chivayo's former business partners, Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu - now jailed - have also been implicated in the tender scandal. Despite growing evidence, Chivayo, Ren-Form, and ZEC have all denied wrongdoing.Moyo insists that Parliament must verify all payments and transactions linked to the deal, as the funds involved were sourced directly from taxpayers. "This is a matter of national interest," he said. "There must be accountability and due diligence to ensure public resources are not looted with impunity."The petition adds pressure on Parliament and law enforcement to act in a scandal that has become symbolic of Zimbabwe's worsening corruption crisis, where politically connected elites often escape justice despite glaring evidence of misconduct.
(Megan McCloskey/Stars and Stripes)



Wichita, Kansas, Sep. 12, 2012: The Honor Guard from Ft. Riley folds the flag that draped a homeless veterans casket at his funeral. Instead of being buried in a paupers grave  an ending that would have only reinforced his anonymous last years  the Vietnam veteran was again recognized as Army Sgt. Patrick Dunagan and honored with a military funeral.

Read about the charitable efforts of many organizations and businesses to ensure destitute veterans are buried with honor and dignity here.
U.S. Army Sgt. Liam Harris, a Combined Joint Task ForceHorn of Africa engineer, measures a board for a new aid station at Baledogle airfield in Somalia on April 25, 2025. (Micheala Maldonado/U.S. Army)



STUTTGART, Germany  A new medical facility is among the recent improvements at a remote U.S. military airfield in Somalia that also is being fortified following heavy attacks in recent years.

The medical aid station at Baledogle Military Airfield will ensure that troops can receive lifesaving care without delay, Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa said in a statement Tuesday.

The added medical capability, along with other housing and force protection projects, further develops the airfield as an enduring location, the statement said.

The engineering work at Baledogle suggests that there are no immediate plans for a U.S. withdrawal from Somalia, where several hundred American troops are assisting government forces.

Military officials said the work at Baledogle includes unspecified force protection improvements.

The New York National Guards 152nd Engineer Support Company has been playing a pivotal role in enhancing both military operations and the quality of life for service members stationed at the airfield, according to the task force.

Any time there is an operation, (troops) need a place to sleep, to eat, to have security, and thats what we provide, a 152nd sergeant said in the statement. We are the bedrock.

U.S. Army Sgt. George LeBrun, a mechanic with Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, cuts supports for an aid station at Baledogle airfield in Somalia on April 23, 2025. (Micheala Maldonado/U.S. Army)

U.S. Army personnel assigned to Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa move gravel to establish a foundation and develop roads at Baledogle airfield in Somalia on April 23, 2025. (Micheala Maldonado/U.S. Army)

U.S. Army Sgt. Edwin Barreto, a Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa engineer, nails down supports on the aid station at Baledogle airfield in Somalia on April 23, 2025. (Micheala Maldonado/U.S. Army)

U.S. Army 152nd Engineer Support Company members pose for a photo at Baledogle Military Airfield in Somalia on April 25, 2025. The company has undertaken construction projects to improve infrastructure and strengthen security. (Micheala Maldonado/U.S. Army)



U.S. special operations troops have used Baledogle off and on for years. The site in southeastern Somalia has played a key role in coordinating counterterrorism efforts aimed at weakening al-Shabab, a militant group aligned with al-Qaida that is locked in a longtime struggle with the Somali central government.

The airfield and the American troops there have been targets for militants. In 2019, al-Shabab launched the largest attack against U.S. forces in Somalia since 1993s Operation Gothic Serpent.

The 2019 attack resulted in an hourlong shootout, U.S. military officials later said. The militants attempted to break into the base with a truck bomb, which exploded at the locations perimeter. The blast was so powerful it left a crater 20 feet deep.

Its not clear what the future direction of the AFRICOM mission in Somalia will be. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is assessing how U.S. forces are deployed around the world, which could have implications for U.S. Africa Command.

At the end of President Donald Trumps first term, he pulled all U.S. forces out of the country, promoting AFRICOM to carry out rotational missions there instead. In 2022, AFRICOM returned to a full-time presence in Somalia.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspects a Pyongyang weapons factory in this image released by the Korean Central News Agency on May 7, 2025. (KCNA)



SEOUL, South Korea  North Koreas authoritarian leader ordered his nations munitions factories to accelerate artillery shell production, even as state media boasted of new records set in munition production rates, the state-run Korean Central News Agency reported Wednesday.

Kim Jong Un toured a weapons factory in Pyongyang and was briefed on efforts to boost shell production, according to KCNA. The report did not specify the date of his visit.

The U.S. and South Korean militaries have accused the North of sending a host of lethal military aid to Russia, including 152 mm shells, short-range ballistic missiles and between 10,000 and 12,000 troops.

South Korean lawmakers, citing closed-door briefings from the National Intelligence Service last month, have said the North is estimated to have shipped thousands of containers holding up to six million artillery shells to Russia by sea since 2022.

North Korea is producing artillery shells at four times its annual average, or double its previous record, KCNA reported without disclosing specific numbers.

The agency said the countrys production process has reached a high level, with shell manufacturing capacity growing at high speed.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspects a Pyongyang weapons factory in this image released by the Korean Central News Agency on May 7, 2025. (KCNA)



North Korea often refers to long-range missiles as artillery shells. The regime has been banned from conducting ballistic missile tests by the U.N. Security Council since 2016.

In March, KCNA described 600 mm munitions fired in a multiple-rocket launcher drill as artillery rockets. However, South Korean military officials, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and independent experts characterized those rounds as ballistic missiles, based on their size and the distance  about 185 miles  they traveled.

Wednesdays report made no mention of North Koreas export of artillery shells to Russia. However, on April 28, Pyongyang publicly acknowledged it is supplying Moscow with troops for its three-year war with Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin described the Norths casualties as Korean heroes who gave their lives for Moscow, according to a news release from the Office of the President on April 28.

South Koreas intelligence service estimates that about 4,100 North Korean troops have been wounded and 600 killed while fighting for Russia, Rep. Lee Seong Kweun of the People Power Party told reporters April 30 in Seoul.

The commander of U.S. Forces Korea, Army Gen. Xavier Brunson, described Russia as the Norths original major benefactor, during testimony before Senate lawmakers on April 10.

In return, Russia is expanding sharing of space, nuclear, and missile-applicable technology, expertise and materials to [North Korea], he said. Russias expanded cooperation will enable advancements of [North Koreas] weapons of mass destruction program across the next three to five years. Contrary to predictions of collapse due to food shortages, [North Korea] is more stable than ever 
As we face war on our continent, fierce global competition, accelerating climate and technological change, and threats of a global trade war, we have agreed on a comprehensive agenda to relaunch our relationship, the two leaders wrote in a joint article for Le Figaro newspaper. (Nathan Laine/Bloomberg)



New German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron pledged to reset ties between their nations and join forces to help strengthen the European Unions defensive capabilities and competitiveness.

As we face war on our continent, fierce global competition, accelerating climate and technological change, and threats of a global trade war, we have agreed on a comprehensive agenda to relaunch our relationship, the two leaders wrote in a joint article for Le Figaro newspaper.

We will make the most of Franco-German coordination and instincts to make Europe more sovereign, with an emphasis on security, competitiveness, and convergence, they added. The article was published to coincide with Merzs visit to Paris on Wednesday, when he and Macron appeared on friendly terms at a news conference after their talks.

By making the symbolic choice of France for his first foreign trip, Merz is seeking to follow through quickly on a promise to revitalize a Franco-German relationship he sees as vital for his bid to strengthen the EUs hand in areas like trade and defense.

The conservative leaders Social Democrat predecessor, Olaf Scholz, failed to find much common ground with Macron on key tenets of European policy and both were severely weakened by domestic setbacks last year, depriving the EU of the dynamic leadership it needed at a time of geopolitical upheaval.

Russias war of aggression against Ukraine has shattered the illusion of guaranteed peace and security in Europe, Merz and Macron wrote in Le Figaro. We have already assumed more responsibilities for our own security, and we will take on more. On relations with the U.S., the two leaders said they want a mutually beneficial trade and investment agenda, while underscoring their resolve to fully safeguard EU interests and ensure strong responses to adverse actions.

We support the commission to use its toolkit in a swift and robust manner where necessary to protect European interests, they wrote.

Merz arrived in Paris after needing an unprecedented second vote to secure parliamentary confirmation as chancellor on Tuesday, a shock reverse that highlighted the fragility of the coalitions Bundestag majority and raised doubts about his authority.

He brushed off the debacle in a series of television interviews on Tuesday evening, in which he also promised to make European policy a main focus of his tenure.

The world is in such disarray that a German chancellor must look after foreign policy and European policy much more than in the past, Merz told public broadcaster ARD.

In recent weeks, Merz has underlined his commitment to Europe, promising to strengthen the continents military capabilities within NATO, foster joint procurement projects and ramp up production of military equipment.

I know that many of you expect more German leadership than we have seen in the past, both on the EU and international level, Merz told fellow conservatives at a European Peoples Party congress in Valencia last month. We will and we have to invest a lot more energy into moving Europe forward.

After his lunch with Macron, Merz is heading to Warsaw later on Wednesday for talks with his Polish counterpart, Donald Tusk, and the issue of irregular migration will be high on the agenda, along with Russias war on Ukraine and defense.

Merz and his CDU/CSU allies have promised immediate action to prevent people coming to Germany illegally, part of an effort to check the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany.

The anti-immigrant party, which came second in Februarys national election, is leading in some polls ahead of Merzs bloc and the SPD in third place.

Germanys new interior minister, Alexander Dobrindt, is expected to announce a further tightening of border controls later on Wednesday. The previous government already stepped up policing and spot checks on Germanys frontiers last year.

Some EU officials, including in Poland, have expressed concern such measures will hamper freight traffic and compromise freedom of movement in the 27-nation bloc.

With assistance from James Regan, Piotr Skolimowski and Richard Bravo.
Jamieson Greer, President Donald Trumps nominee to be United States Trade Representative, with the rank of Ambassador, appears before the Senate Committee on Finance for his pending confirmation on Capitol Hill. (Rod Lamkey/AP)



Chinese trade negotiators will sit down with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Switzerland this weekend for the first high-level talks aimed at easing tensions in their trade war.

This comes after both sides, feeling the impact of tariffs that are so high they amount to an embargo, have softened their rhetoric in recent days.

Chinas Ministry of Commerce said Wednesday that Vice Premier He Lifeng will attend the talks in Geneva later this week.

On the basis of having fully considered global expectations, Chinas interests and the appeals from U.S. industry and consumers, China has decided to engage with the U.S., the ministry said in a statement.

Bessent wrote on X that, thanks to President Donald Trump, the world has been coming to the U.S., and China has been the missing piece.

We will meet on Saturday and Sunday to discuss our shared interests. The current tariffs and trade barriers are unsustainable, but we dont want to decouple, he wrote. What we want is fair trade.

The USTR office said in a statement that Greer would meet with his Chinese counterpart to discuss trade matters.

Beijing has remained defiant as Trump has imposed minimum tariffs of 145 percent on Chinese goods. It responded with its own blanket 125 percent levies and restricted exports of key raw materials.

Chinese officials have repeatedly pledged to fight to the end and called for the U.S. to remove all tariffs before negotiations could begin.

But Beijing softened that hard-line stance recently after Trump spoke about his hopes of making a deal with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. But it has continued to underscore that China is the aggrieved party and to project itself as a responsible power to the rest of the world.

Whether it is fighting or talking, Chinas determination to safeguard its own development interests will not change, not will its position and goal of defending international fairness and justice, the commerce ministry statement said. If the United States wants to solve the problem through negotiations, it must face up to the serious negative impact of unilateral tariff measures on itself and the world.
The Pentagon needs a streamlined policy on how and when to notify parents that their child might have experienced abuse or neglect in a military child care facility and to document the process, according to a Defense Department watchdog report. (iStock)



The Pentagon needs a streamlined policy on how and when to notify parents that their child might have experienced abuse or neglect in a military child care facility and to document the process, according to a Defense Department watchdog report released Wednesday.

The 42-page report from the departments inspector general is the first of two evaluating military child care facilities and programs. The second report will focus on policies that verify whether child abuse allegations were handled appropriately at select military day cares, known as child development centers.

Jules Hurst, acting undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, told the inspector general that the updated policy on notification will be issued by Sept. 30, the end of the fiscal year. The Army, Navy and Marines Corps responded that each would implement the new DOD policy, with the latter two estimating it would be done by April 2026. The Air Force did not respond to the inspector general, but a spokesperson for the service said Wednesday that it concurs with the reports recommendation.

Defense leaders called on the inspector general to review notification policies last year after incidents in military-run centers raised questions about when and how parents should be informed about possible abuse or neglect, as well as the proper procedure for handling the allegations.

The military operates Americas largest employer-sponsored child care program with about 200,000 children of service members and DOD civilians receiving care, according to the report. The facilities and home-based providers can care for newborns up to children aged 12. The report focused on facilities caring for kids up to age 5.

While instances of abuse are lower in military facilities than in the civilian community, there have been at least two with criminal convictions in recent years.

Five Marine Corps families filed lawsuits after their children were abused in a day care at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma in Arizona in 2020 and 2021. Two women who were employed at the facility were convicted in state court but the families said negligence from the military allowed for the abuse to occur.

Children between 1 and 2 years old were forcefully placed in chairs and shoved into tables, forced to use their own hands to hit themselves, hit with toys, and carried by just an arm or a leg and then left alone when they cried in pain, according to federal court records.

Wednesdays report confirms what the families have long feared: a systemic failure to promptly and consistently notify families of child abuse allegations at military child care centers, said Glen Sturtevant, an attorney for the families.

Without a consistent process to notify parents of abuse allegations, children in these centers are left vulnerable, and parents are left in the dark, he said. This lack of transparency has compounded the trauma for these children and their families. There must be immediate reforms to ensure accountability, protect our service members children, and restore trust in these facilities.

Two former employees of a Navy run day care at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii were convicted for abusing a 15-month-old girl in 2022. Kate Kuykendall, the girls mother, said seeing the inspector generals report validated her familys experience, which included a worker pinching the childs legs and leaving bruises.

I wish I had known about this prior to my daughter being there, she said. You would think that at a child development center on a military base would be more on top of it.

Her husband Army Maj. JD Kuykendall said the report is a good first step. Next commanders overseeing these programs need a prescriptive policy on how to follow through with abuse allegations instead of trusting that everyone below them acted appropriately.

The entire process must be transparent, he said.

During the inspector generals evaluation, the Pentagon issued a policy update requiring notifications to parents or guardians be sent within 24 hours of learning about the allegation of abuse or neglect, according to the report. However, the policy update doesnt address how this communication should occur and the necessary follow up.

Before this, only the Navy had a specific time for notification  days cares had 24 hours for verbal communication and 48 hours for written.

As a result, parents or legal guardians may not be aware of the specifics of the alleged abuse or neglect of their child, thereby limiting the potential actions they can take to address the allegation, according to the report.

Kate Kuykendall agreed.

In terms of our daughter, they werent telling me what happened, she said. If youre not telling the parents specifically what happened to their kid, how can they help them?
Army Pfc. Gerardo Casarez-Aguilar of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, Colo., on April 11, 2025, looks at the U.S. border with Mexico in Santa Teresa, N.M., where his unit is assigned to the detect illegal activity. (Rose L. Thayer/Stars and Stripes)



AUSTIN, Texas  More than 200 migrants have now been charged with trespassing in the new military zone along New Mexicos southern border, yet service members still have not taken part in the physical arrests.

The military zone in New Mexico was established recently to give troops the jurisdiction to apprehend migrants crossing unlawfully into the United States from Mexico. But military operations at the southern border have largely remained the same. Service members detect the presence of people in the zone, called the New Mexico National Defense Area, and alert federal agents who make the arrests.

Troops still have not used their recently authorized power to detain people on the land, said Army Maj. Geoffrey Carmichael, spokesman for the Joint Task Force-Southern Border.

I can confirm that task force personnel were instrumental in several detections that occurred, which resulted in swift apprehension carried out by the U.S. Border Patrol who were operating in close proximity to patrolling task force personnel, he said. I can also confirm task force personnel have neither made any detentions nor apprehensions of alleged trespassers within the national defense areas.

Because troops work in such a close partnership with Customs and Border Protection officers, they have not had to take that next step themselves, he said. Those detained were migrants also charged with entering the U.S. without authorization, according to the Justice Department.

The cases of the people charged are in U.S. District Court in New Mexico, where the Army established the military zone last month. It is considered part of Fort Huachuca in Arizona. The area is roughly 170 miles long and 60 feet wide, stretch across much of the southern edge of New Mexico. It does not include any tribal lands.

A couple of weeks later, the Army established the Texas National Defense Area as part of Fort Bliss in El Paso. It extends east more than 50 miles from El Paso to the town of Fort Hancock. However, no one has been charged with entering this area yet, according to the Justice Department.

Roughly 6,600 soldiers and Marines are working along the southwest border, primarily in a support role to Customs and Border Protection. However, when the defense areas were established, troops were given additional authorities to temporarily detain anyone trespassing on the new military land  just as they would at any military base.

The border deployments first began in 2018 during President Donald Trumps first term and continued under former President Joe Biden with about 2,500 National Guard at the border at the end of his administration.

When Trump returned to office in January, he ordered active-duty forces to the mission. More than 4,000 have deployed to the border. It is part of his goal of making border security a top priority for the military.

Trump ordered the creation of the military border zones to sidestep laws that prohibit the military from conducting civilian law enforcement.

People detained in the military zones can face a federal charge for trespassing on military land, which is a misdemeanor that carries the penalty of up to a year in custody and $100,000 in fines. More traditional illegal entry charges only hold a penalty of up to six months in jail and up to $5,000 in fines, according to The Washington Post.

Chief Magistrate Judge Gregory Wormuth in New Mexico ordered government lawyers last week to submit a brief explaining their view of the legal standards required to convict someone of trespassing on military property, according to the Post. He also asked whether defendants must have known it was military property to be found guilty.

The southern border task force said troops began installing signs on the land immediately after it was transferred into Army ownership. It will remain Army land for three years.
VA Secretary Doug Collins testifies Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in Washington during a hearing of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs. The hearing focused on the future of the VA, as Collins defended his management of the huge agency from critical questions by Democratic senators on the committee. (Eric Kayne/Stars and Stripes)



WASHINGTON (Tribune News Service)  New Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins faced tough questions on Tuesday about his plans to lay off 70,000 to 80,000 employees and speed up the nationwide deployment of a troubled computerized patient medical record system that first launched in 2020.

Washington Sen. Patty Murray grilled Collins about a lack of transparency under his leadership, including a new policy that prevented her from meeting with veterans and health care providers at a Seattle VA hospital in April. She also questioned his goal of cutting 15% of the departments workforce while accelerating the rollout of the electronic health record system that has hamstrung Spokanes Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center since it became the testing ground at the end of the first Trump administration.

As you know, fixing EHR and getting it right for our veterans is about patient safety, Murray said, using the acronym for the system. Did you ask these VA clinicians and hospitals about how those cuts would affect future EHR deployments?

Collins replied that the planned layoffs and the computer systems accelerated rollout are separate, disagreeing with concerns about cutting staff and terminating support contracts while more aggressively deploying a system that has contributed to thousands of cases of patient harm, according to the VAs own internal data.

Ken Kizer, who ran the Veterans Health Administration during the 1990s and oversaw the last major overhaul of VA health care, has said it would be lunacy to ramp up the systems rollout while conducting mass layoffs.

Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., said she was concerned that VA employees were refusing to show up for trainings and to use the new system, asking Collins how he would deal with such resistance to the system, which the Trump administration purchased for $10 billion in 2017 from Cerner, a company that has since been acquired by the tech giant Oracle.

Collins told Blackburn that when he started learning about the beleaguered project, he found an attitude at the VA that he described as, Were not going to do anything and were going to make it all individualized. Meanwhile, he said, Oracle had the attitude that We could just finish this in a short amount of time.

So what weve done is weve actually now put the onus back on Oracle to actually, you know, provide what theyre supposed to provide, Collins said. And weve also cut down, on our side, the amount of delay that was caused in  that really caused the initial problems in the rollout, where we had six different locations doing six different things. So weve taken eight or nine committees that were all having to touch stuff before they could get back to a decision and cut that down to one committee that can then communicate directly with Oracle to get this started.

VA Secretary Doug Collins testifies Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in Washington during a hearing of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs. The hearing focused on the future of the VA, as Collins defended his management of the huge agency from critical questions by Democratic senators on the committee. (Eric Kayne/Stars and Stripes)



The committees Collins referred to were composed of doctors with expertise in different aspects of medical care, who reviewed proposed changes to the complex computer system. It is unclear how a single committee, intended to streamline the systems development, will address the numerous concerns identified by users in Spokane, Walla Walla and the four other VA hospitals that have since adopted the system.

Sen. Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican who chairs the Senate VA Committee, opened the hearing by saying that many of the panels members have concerns about the plan Collins announced in March to slash the departments workforce to comply with an executive order President Donald Trump signed. Rather than cutting a predetermined number of jobs, Moran said, Collins should right-size the VA workforce.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, the panels top Democrat, then expressed similar concerns with a series of sharp questions that Collins largely evaded.

Improvement is absolutely necessary, but it shouldnt be done with a chain saw, Blumenthal said, warning that mass layoffs could be a self-inflicted wound for the VA.

Collins responded by saying that only about 1,000 of the departments more than 470,000 employees had been laid off, excluding most of the probationary VA workers who were arbitrarily fired as part of Trump adviser Elon Musks early effort to slash the federal workforce. The secretary said that simply adding more employees hadnt fixed the VAs woes and emphasized that his goal of cutting 15% of staff may not actually happen.

In a testy exchange with Sen. Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., Collins suggested the idea that the VA will cut jobs and services is a nice talking point, but weve not done it yet.

Its your talking point, Hassan said incredulously, to which Collins responded, It is our goal. A goal is not a fact.

Republicans on the committee largely avoided criticizing Collins, but Moran gently reminded the secretary that the VA needs to replace its inspector general, whom Trump summarily fired in January without following a law that requires a president to notify Congress and give a rationale for such a move.

After Moran questioned why a new inspector general hadnt been appointed, Collins said the next step would be Trump nominating a replacement for Mike Missal, the former top watchdog who, along with other inspectors general who were fired in January, has filed a lawsuit challenging their mass termination.

Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., left, greets VA Secretary Doug Collins before Collins testifies May 6, 2025, in Washington at a hearing of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs. (Eric Kayne/Stars and Stripes)



 2025 The Spokesman-Review (Spokane, Wash.).

Visit www.spokesman.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
News / National

by Staff reporter

A Beitbridge-based police officer has been charged with attempted murder after he allegedly struck a till operator with a beer bottle during a dispute over change for a US$20 note.Ziggie Khonzani (32) appeared before Beitbridge regional magistrate Charity Maphosa on Wednesday, facing serious charges stemming from a violent incident that occurred late Monday night at a local restaurant.According to prosecutors, Khonzani entered the establishment just before closing time intending to buy groceries worth US$3. The till operator, 27-year-old Valentine Venge, informed him that there was no change available for the US$20 bill.Khonzani then reportedly attempted to increase his purchase amount to US$5 and later US$10 in hopes of making the transaction easier, but Venge stood firm, advising him to find change elsewhere. This reportedly enraged the off-duty officer, who allegedly smashed a beer bottle on Venge's face, seriously injuring his ear and lower jaw.The victim was immediately rushed to Beitbridge District Hospital, where he received medical attention for deep lacerations and other injuries. Hospital sources described the injuries as serious but non-life-threatening.The incident has sparked outrage among local residents, with many expressing concern over increasing cases of violence perpetrated by individuals tasked with upholding the law.Khonzani was remanded in custody, and the case has been postponed to a later date for further proceedings. Police authorities are yet to issue an official comment on the incident, and it remains unclear whether Khonzani will face internal disciplinary measures in addition to the criminal charges.The matter continues to highlight growing concerns over abuse of power by some members of the security forces and the need for strict enforcement of accountability within law enforcement agencies.
The comedy writer is among a group of 23 plaintiffs suing the owners of Robinsons Bar over disputed allegations they were unlawfully refused service because of gender critical beliefs

Writer Graham Linehan is perhaps best known for co-creating Father Ted (Kirsty OConnor/PA)

Father Ted creator Graham Linehan and other campaigners claiming discrimination against a Belfast pub are set to rely on a landmark ruling on the legal definition of a woman.

The comedy writer is among a group of 23 plaintiffs suing the owners of Robinsons Bar over disputed allegations they were unlawfully refused service because of gender critical beliefs.

At Belfast County Court today it was confirmed that eight lead cases will be dealt with in the first stage of the actions.

Lawyers representing the group believe their case has been strengthened by last months Supreme Court judgment that a woman is defined by biological sex.

Speaking after the latest review, solicitor Simon Chambers said they were now keen to press on to a full hearing.

My clients feel in light of the recent Supreme Court victory For Women Scotland that their legitimate and reasonably held belief that sex is immutable, that only biological women should be able to avail of women-only spaces has been legally endorsed, and that the so-called justification for their exclusion from the defendants establishment should be shown up as the collective madness which prevailed at the time, Mr Chambers stated.

By taking a stand against this bankrupt ideology, my clients have been unjustly branded bigots and anti-trans, when all they were doing was highlighting its idiocy and standing up for the rights of women.

The group are claiming direct discrimination due to their views on gender in the lawsuit mounted against Wine Inns Ltd over incidents at Robinsons on April 16, 2023.

Mr Linehan and other campaigners had just taken part in a Let Women Speak rally headed by controversial activist Kellie-Jay Keen.

Following the demonstration they were said to have spent up to 90 minutes in the city centre bar.

With some of them wearing clothing with logos in support of womens rights at the time, they contend that further service was then denied.

One of the campaigners is also seeking 20,000 in damages, alleging that he was assaulted and left permanently scarred.

Two others who say they witnessed what happened to him are claiming up to 8,000 compensation.

Separate cases are also being advanced on behalf of the other 20 members of the group.

All of them allege that they were discriminated against and refused service because of their beliefs.

The eight lead cases have been proposed to represent the full spectrum of events, according to court papers.

Mr Linehan is described as a prominent advocate of gender-critical beliefs who engaged with staff in the pub and other members of the group.

Given his public profile, his inclusion also exemplifies the broader societal implications of such alleged conduct, the legal documents contend.

Feminist academic Dr Julia Long has been included as another test case to assess claims of discrimination based solely on the perception of her philosophical beliefs.

Wine Inns strenuously denies any discrimination or less favourable treatment of the plaintiffs.

The alleged assault on one of the campaigners is also denied, amid counter claims that his behaviour had created an apprehension among members of staff.

A further part of the defence involves assertions that even if there was any difference in treatment, it had nothing to do with the groups political opinion.
Former Sinn Fein president gives evidence under cross-examination on day six of his defamation action against the BBC

Gerry Adams arriving at High Court in Dublin for his defamation action against the BBC. Photo: Collins Courts

Gerry Adams has told the High Court he never brought a defamation action against any of the numerous media outlets that described him as a Provisional IRA leader because he received legal advice he would not get a fair hearing.

The former Sinn Fein president said he was irritated rather than appalled by these claims as they made it harder for unionists, loyalists and Protestant church leaders to have dialogue with him.

However, he did sue the BBC over claims he sanctioned the 2006 murder of British spy Denis Donaldson as it was, in his view, a grievous smear that he felt could undermine the peace process.

Mr Adams (76) was giving evidence under cross-examination on the sixth day of the trial of his defamation action against the BBC over a 2016 Spotlight programme and a subsequent article on the BBC website that contained an allegation that he had the final say on the murder.

I have sued against an issue which sets aside the huge work that was done to persuade the IRA to leave the stage, he said.

Paul Gallagher SC, for the BBC, noted that in the Spotlight programme it was also alleged that Mr Adams had been an IRA leader and that he had not sued over that.

Gerry Adams arriving at High Court in Dublin for his defamation action against the BBC. Photo: Collins Courts

The News in 90 Seconds - Wednesday, 7th of May

The former attorney general asked Mr Adams why he had never sued over this claim, which he has always denied.

Mr Adams said he was always advised, particularly by his late solicitor Paddy McGrory, that I would not get a fair hearing.

He said he later retained another solicitor, Paul Tweed, and had taken action in relation to a number of other media issues. This involved writing letters to editors, producers and the Press Council.

Mr Adams said that on a number of occasions he got retractions. We might even have got an apology in the process, he said.

The former Sinn Fein leader said the fact he has sued over the Spotlight programme showed how serious he took the Donaldson accusation.

I consider that to be a grievous smear that could have no other impact on the peace process but to undermine what we achieved, he said.

Donaldson, a former IRA member who later became a Sinn Fein administrator in Stormont, was shot dead at a remote cottage in Glenties, Co Donegal in April 2006, four months after it was revealed he had been spying for police and MI5 since the 1980s.

The Spotlight programme and the follow-up article both contained claims by a man purported to have been a former British spy within Sinn Fein and the IRA that Mr Adams sanctioned the murder.

Mr Adams has denied any knowledge or role in the killing and says he condemned it.

The BBC denies defaming him and says the programme was put out in good faith and during the course of discussion on a subject of public and vital interest. It argues the broadcast and the article were fair, reasonable and in the public interest.

In court today, Mr Adams said he gave the BBC every opportunity through my lawyers to rectify the accusation and the allegation that they had made.

He made reference to persuading the IRA to end its campaign and engage in decommissioning and how the allegation would have been perceived within his community, among his peers, and within those I persuaded, with others, to put arms beyond use.

The import of the Spotlight programme, he claimed, was that all of that was a scam.

Mr Gallagher asked Mr Adams about a statement from then Taoiseach Enda Kenny in 2013 that nobody believed Mr Adams was not a member of the IRA.

That is a matter for Mr Kenny. He needs to explain that, was Mr Adams response.

The barrister also asked him about a 2004 Irish Times article that carried a statement from then Taoiseach Bertie Ahern. The statement said Mr Ahern stood by his claim that Mr Adams was a member of the Provisional IRA. The court was told Mr Ahern expressed confusion as to why Mr Adams had issued repeated denials about this around that time.

You are asking me to respond to a claim by the Taoiseach Bertie Ahern. I dont intend to do that, Mr Adams said.

Mr Gallagher referred to a 2005 article in the Irish Independent that said Mr Adams, Martin McGuinness and Martin Ferris had all stood down from the IRA army council and been replaced with people aligned to Mr Adams political strategy.

Mr Adams said he didnt recall that article, one of several referenced by the barrister during the three days the former Sinn Fein leader has been under cross-examination.

What you are trying to persuade this jury is that I dont have a reputation, that my reputation is useless, that I have no reputation whatsoever, Mr Adams told Mr Gallagher.

That is what this smothering and saturation of the jury is about, with all of these obscure quotes that you are asking me to respond to 30/40/50 years later, he said.

The trial judge, Mr Justice Alexander Owens, said he understood Mr Adams point, but would allow Mr Gallagher to continue with his line of questioning.

At another point the judge said the jury was entitled to consider information in the public domain that reflected Mr Adams public reputation. However, he said the articles and television broadcasts were not evidence.
Michal Godla (35) was jailed for three years and three months at a sitting of Longford Circuit Criminal Court today

A woman has spoken of how she believed she was going to be killed by a man who unleashed a sustained, violent and vicious attack on her as she walked in a public park in a midlands town almost two years ago.

Michal Godla (35) of Annaly Court, Longford was jailed for three years and three months by Judge Kenneth Connolly at a sitting of Longford Circuit Criminal Court today after the accused pleaded guilty to assault causing harm to his victim at The Mall, Longford during the early hours of August 7, 2023.

Sharon Harrison told of how she had witnessed evil in the eyes of her Slovakian assailant when Godla launched a terrifying assault on her by brutally attacking her from behind.

The chartered accountant even told her assailant: I am a woman, a mother; You wouldnt do this to your own mother, in a plea as Godla continued to beat his defenceless victim.

Godla was later charged and pleaded guilty to assault causing harm to Ms Harrrison while the State withdrew, or entered a nolle prosequi on a second count of making a threat to kill or cause serious harm on the same date.

A sitting of Longford Circuit Criminal Court heard how Ms Harrison had been encountering trouble sleeping and decided to go for a walk at the popular civic amenity shortly after 1am.

Michal Godla outside Longford Courthouse.

The News in 90 Seconds - Wednesday, 7th of May

Counsel for the prosecution, Shane Geraghty BL told the court of how Ms Harrison, who was sporting a hooded purple rain jacket, had passed the accused as she attempted to blow her nose with a tissue along a straight stretch of footpath.

Mr Geraghty said in almost instantaneous fashion, Godla viciously lashed out at his victim, striking her twice in quick succession around the temple area of her head.

The force of the blows caused Ms Harrison to fall to the ground and her glasses to be knocked from her face.

The court heard how Godla proceeded to forcibly pull Ms Harrison up off the ground with one hand before striking her on at least a four further occasions while, at the same time, meting out a blow into her ribs as she lay prostrate on the path.

She could not say how many blows she got but they were all with a closed fist, he said, adding how the Longford woman pleaded with Godla to stop.

(Ms Harrison) shouted at him to stop, saying: I am a woman, a mother. You wouldnt do this to your own mother (but) she describes that he didnt react to that at all.

The court was told as Godlas victim lay motionless on the floor, the accused bent over her before telling her menacingly: I want to rape you.

The sinister tone of those remarks, Judge Connolly was told, prompted Ms Harrison into showing a remarkable presence of mind as she convinced her attacker into looking for her glasses.

Michal Godla.

She thought he was going to kill her, so she said to him: Okay, I will go with you, you can do whatever you want to do, but I need my glasses to be able to walk, added Mr Geraghty.

It was a move that distracted Godla long enough to allow his victim, by her own admission to run for my life and ring her husband.

Ms Harrison was later transported by ambulance to Mullingars Midland Regional Hospital where she was treated for multiple bruises as well as injuries to her head, face, chest and abdominal area.

The contents of a medical report unveiled how the violent and frenzied nature of the attack had left Godlas victim traumatised with its findings detailing how only time will tell if a full recovery will come from its by psychological aftereffects.

A subsequent GPs report echoed those conclusions in revealing how Ms Harrison had been deemed unfit to return to work for the next 18 months owing to her hyper vigilant and constantly on edge manner that had been brought about by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a direct consequence of the attack.

Her current lifestyle where she is literally afraid of her shadow is a far cry from her previous work as an accomplished accountant, the report stated, adding how her ordeal had left her reliant on a cocktail of prescribed anti-depressant medication.

Godla was arrested by gardai in January last year after house to house inquiries and the canvassing of CCTV footage both in and around The Mall identified him as a person of interest.

Michal Godla outside Longford Courthouse.

That came after the accused had flown back to his native Slovakia on two separate occasions between August and December 2023.

Mr Geraghty said it was during the course of his arrest that Godla made a straight up admission telling gardai he believed his victim was, in fact, a man.

I just saw a hand up, he told arresting officer Detective Garda Orla Geraghty.

I thought I was going to be hit and went to defend myself. I hit them a couple of times (but) didnt realise it was a woman.

During the course of three interviews taken over the course of an eight and a half hour period, Godla told gardai of his decision to venture down to The Mall after smoking a joint on the balcony of his home while consuming Slovakian alcohol with a 78pc volume level.

Godla maintained his stance concerning what he perceived to be the gender of his victim, stressing also how the assault was not one which had been perpetrated from behind.

The court was told, however, he couldnt be 100pc sure whether he had threatened to rape Ms Harrison.

He said he didnt see the person he assaulted, he just saw hands coming at him and hit them to the right side of the face with a closed fist, added Mr Geraghty.

The person fell onto her side and she was KOd. He described slapping the victim by using both sides of his hand, the first six werent hard and then he gave two hard slaps.

Detective Garda Geraghty detailed how gardai, following the seizure of Godlas phone, managed to discover how the accused had travelled by train to Dublin the day after the attack where he gave the clothes he had been wearing to a homeless man on OConnell Street.

Michal Godla showed his victim "no mercy" during a "sustained, violent and vicious attack" on his female victim at The Mall in Longford town on August 7, 2023.

It was during those inquiries that evidence came to light concerning Godlas decision to carry out a google search on the likely penalties that come with an assault causing harm conviction.

I wanted to know what to expect, I wanted to go the guards but I was too scared, he told gardai.

I am brown, not white (and) I was afraid people wouldnt believe me.

Godla went on to insist he had not confided in anyone over the incident and got scared when mulling over handing himself in at around the time he saw news of the episode being posted on social media.

The court was informed Godla had never been employed in Ireland in all his 21 years living here but had flown out unaccompanied to Slovakia on both occasions prior to his arrest while in receipt of carers allowance.

His four previous convictions, it was revealed, were all linked to drug related offences with the most recent of those arriving in December 2020.

In mitigation, Dara Foynes SC said while her client could be best described as a simple sort of a chap who lacked sophistication, there was no question of his bona fide in owning up to his actions.

She said his decision to return from Slovakia and face the consequences of his offending was indicative of Godlas mindset, remorseful thought processes that were similarly illustrated when he was shown photographs of the injuries sustained by Ms Harrison.

He didnt at any stage attempt to go after her when she took the opportunity to flee, added Ms Foynes.

He accepted he made some sort of threat. He had difficulty with the allegation that he had used the word rape but it is accepted and (the case) went forward on that basis.

A letter of apology was also handed in, details of which heard how Godla pleaded for a second chance and for his victim to forgive me one day.

Ms Foynes added that Godla was willing to tender 2,000 and possibly more to Ms Harrison, an offer which the court heard she had no interest in accepting.

Godla's victim told of how her attacker stood over and menacing told her: "I want to rape you," moments before she managed to flee on foot and raise the alarm

For her part and in a victim impact statement which was read out on behalf of Ms Harrison, the court was told how she was fully convinced she was going to be killed by a man who showed her absolutely no mercy throughout her terrifying ordeal.

I shouted at him to stop, but he just kept hitting me, she said.

He continued to beat me, punching me to the ground and then lifting me up by the neck like a rag doll and punching me to the ground again.

I thought he would kill me, I thought I was going to die and I was truly terrified that night.

She also recalled how Godla stood over her and uttered the words: I want to rape you, soundings that had left her in no doubt as to the menacing threat her attacker posed not just to her but to women in general.

That man not only beat me and terrorised me that night, but he tainted my love of life, my fear of men and I am a shadow of my former self, she said.

I also fear my attacker might do the same one day to another woman who may not be as lucky as I was to escape.

My attacker did not let me go, I escaped. He showed me no mercy and only released his grip when he beat me into submission.

"This was a vicious, sustained attack from behind and I can honestly say I witnessed evil that night.

In delivering sentence, Judge Connolly described the episode as being" entirely unprovoked, unanticipated and savage in its nature.

He said the court could only imagine the utterly terrifying, numbing and chilling experience Ms Harrison was exposed to with Godlas final insult to his victim coming courtesy of the words: I want to rape you, he said.

Judge Connolly added the injures inflicted on Ms Harrison, one of which included a suspected bleed on the brain allied to the far-reaching psychological sequela she had been forced to endure was an offence that could only result in a very significant custodial sentence being handed down.

"This was not a single punch or scuffle type assault, he said. There was a complete lack of provocation or context in this case, so much so I find it hard to understand what happened at all.

He described as fiction Godlas assertion surrounding claims he believed his victim was a man while hailing the bravery and fortitude shown by Ms Harrison in penning a very detailed and comprehensive victim impact statement.

"Her confidence has been shattered and replaced with crippling fear, anxiety and a suspicion of strangers, he said, adding how the repercussions of the attack has forced her to substitute her own career aspirations with weekly counselling sessions in its place.

Judge Connolly said the court was particularly mindful of a probation report which put Godla at a high risk of reoffending within the next 12 months allied to his poor work history and the fact he had only taken up counselling of his own at the behest of his own GP.

In outlining how the maximum tariff for the assault charge, at the time of its commission, carried a five month prison term, Judge Connolly fixed a headline sentence of four years and eight months in prison.

The mitigating factors were, he said, largely predominated by Godlas early guilty plea as well as his lack of any previous convictions for any violent type crimes of a similar ilk.

Judge Connolly said, in factoring in mitigation, the aforementioned four years and eight month sentence could be reduced by 17 months to one of three years and three months.

In the wake of doing so, he said the court also had to consider the prospect of suspending any of part of that sentence.

Those considerations, he said, were not appropriate in Godlas case owing to his absence of making any significant steps to rehabilitate himself both in terms of his predilections to alcohol and cannabis as well his own decision to discontinue counselling after five to six sessions.

As such, he said there was no legal justification in suspending any aspect of the courts ruling as Godla was led away by prison officers to begin his three years and three month prison term.
Adenilson Santos Oliveira (35) was unknown to the woman, who was in fear and called the gardai

A woman returned home to find an intruder upstairs, having removed his shoes and wrapped himself in a childs blanket.

Adenilson Santos Oliveira (35) was unknown to the woman, who was in fear and called the gardai.

Judge Michele Finan adjourned the case for the production of a probation report.

Mr Oliveira, with an address at Xavier Court, Sherrard Street Upper, Dublin is charged with trespassing in a manner likely to cause fear.

The charge is under Section 13 of the Public Order Act.

Dublin District Court heard the woman, who lived alone, returned to her north inner city home at midnight on October 13, 2023 to find the accused upstairs.

He had let himself in the front door, removed his shoes and had a childs blanket wrapped around him.

Mr Oliveira was unknown to the woman, who ushered him out and called the gardai.

The woman had not provided a victim impact statement, the court heard.

Judge Finan said she was ordering a probation report in light of the nature of the case.

Adjourning it to a date in September, she said she would hear a full plea in mitigation then.

She remanded the accused on continuing bail.
Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) is dismissing a recent report detailing extensive concerns from some of his current and former staffers over his mental state.

Its a one-source story with a couple of anonymous sources, a hit piece from a very left publication, Fetterman told NBC News when asked about the story, which was published in New York magazine last week.

Many of the staffers I spoke with are angry, journalist Ben Terris wrote as part of the piece. They are troubled. And they are sad. These were some of Fettermans truest believers, and they now question his fitness to be a senator. They worry he may present a risk to the Democratic Party and maybe even to himself.

Terris reported former and current staffers painted a picture of an erratic senator who has become almost impossible to work for and whose mental-health situation is more serious and complicated than previously reported.

ADVERTISEMENT

The piece reported that the senator in February 2023 accidently walked, obliviously, into the road and was nearly struck by a car.

New York magazine did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

During a Tuesday interview with CNN, Fetterman said theres no new news with this, and sought to discredit the staffers who spoke with the outlet.

My doctors are like John is great,' he said. I am on all of the plan that it has always been. Its incredibly invasive, and why is anyone talking about anyones personal medical things?

Fetterman, a moderate Democrat, has spoken openly about his mental health struggles in the past. In 2023 he received in-person treatment for depression at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for six weeks.

I dont care if youre a liberal or conservative, Republican or Democrat, we all can be depressed  and we all can get made healthier, he said during an interview with People magazine that year. Go to the doctor or whoever youre able to. Address your depression. I was skeptical it would make anything better, but it did. It works. And Im so grateful.

ADVERTISEMENT

Updated at 4:26 p.m. EDT

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.
Christopher Ayiotis (41) is also accused of slapping and spitting at the woman during the alleged assault, Dublin District Court heard

A man held a knife to his partners neck, threatened to kill her and threw a cup of boiling water at her during an argument, it is alleged.

Christopher Ayiotis (41) is also accused of slapping and spitting at the woman during the alleged assault, Dublin District Court heard.

He is facing trial after a judge ruled the allegations were too serious to be dealt with in the district court.

Judge Michele Finan adjourned the case for further DPP directions.

Mr Ayiotis, with an address at Dingle Road, Cabra, Dublin is charged with assaulting the woman on October 20, 2024.

The judge heard the DPP consented to the case being dealt with at district court level subject to the issue of jurisdiction being considered. Judge Finan asked for an outline of the prosecutions evidence.

It was alleged that he grabbed her and threw a cup of boiling water at her

The court heard the accused and the woman were in a relationship when the alleged incident took place at an address in Finglas.

According to the prosecution, there was an incident, during which Mr Ayiotis presented a knife to the womans neck and threatened to kill her. It was also alleged that he grabbed her and threw a cup of boiling water at her, which missed. He then slapped her a number of times and spat at her, it was alleged.

Judge Finan refused jurisdiction and adjourned the case to July for the DPP to give consent for the accused to be sent forward for circuit court trial.

She granted free legal aid and remanded Mr Ayiotis on continuing bail.
Gareth Ross Mastersons ex-partner has bravely waived her right to anonymity so that Mastersons alleged offences can be fully outlined

A Co. Antrim man appeared in court today accused of raping and physically abusing his former partner.

Standing in the dock of Belfast Magistrates Court 38-year-old Gareth Ross Masterson confirmed he was aware of the nine charges against him and that he had received legal papers and statements relating to the allegations including rape and grievous bodily harm allegedly committed against his ex-partner.

She has bravely waived her right to anonymity so that Mastersons alleged offences can be fully outlined.

Ross Masterson

The News in 90 Seconds - Wednesday, 7th of May

The first five counts against the personal trainer, from the Glenarm Road in Larne, allege that on 17 March last year he raped the complainant, inflicted both grievous and actual bodily harm, made a threat to kill her and damaged her handbag.

Masterson is also alleged to have assaulted the complainant on 31 July 2022 but on the other offences, covering a global time span between 21 February 2022 and 24 March last year, he faces charges of common assault, GBH and subjecting her to domestic abuse.

That final count alleges that Masterson engaged in a course of behaviour that was abusive of another person to whom you were personally connected at the time and the course of behaviour is such that a reasonable person would consider the course of behaviour to be likely to cause her to suffer physical or psychological harm and that you intended the course of behaviour to cause her to suffer physical or psychological harm.

Ross Masterson

None of the alleged background facts surrounding the charges were opened in court but during a brief Preliminary Enquiry, the legal step necessary to send any case to the Crown Court, a prosecuting layer submitted there was a Prima Facie case against Masterson.

Defence solicitor Mark Crawford conceded there was a case to answer and although afforded the opportunity to comment on the charges and to call evidence on his own behalf, Masterson declined.

Freeing Masterson on bail, District Judge Steven Keown returned the case to Belfast Crown Court but did not set a date for the arraignment.
Dubliner Carter had secured interim restraining orders on April 9, temporarily stopping two reporters from publishing stories about him

Landlord turned screenwriter Christian Carter has backed off from using anti-stalking laws to stop an RTE reporter writing stories about him but has been hit with a 5,000 legal bill.

Dubliner Carter had secured interim restraining orders on April 9, temporarily stopping Amy Molloy, the Irish Independent's Social Affairs Correspondent, and Maura Fay, a Today with Claire Byrne reporter on RTE Radio 1, from publishing stories about him.

Both of the journalists resisted his attempts to extend the interim order for five-years.

However, last month at Dublin District Court, Judge Anthony Halpin threw out Carter's bid to "silence" Amy Molloy before lifting reporting restrictions and landing him with an order to pay 10,000 to cover expenses incurred by Mediahuis, the publishers of the Irish Independent, in fighting the case.

Yesterday, Carter's case against Ms Fay was listed again for hearing. However, during the call-over of the day's cases, his barrister, Stephen Wilson, instructed by solicitor Alex Rafter, said he was instructed to withdraw the matter.

Judge Halpin noted two similar previous attempts against Ms Fay had failed. Following an application by Rebecca Tierney BL for Ms Fay, he ordered Carter to pay her legal costs of 5,000.

Furthermore, he again lifted the in-camera rule, allowing the parties to be named.

The businessman's U-turn follows a resounding courtroom defeat on April 16 in his action against the Irish Independent journalist.

In that case, Judge Halpin criticised Carter's use of the process, saying it was not the purpose of the civil restraining orders introduced last year.

Christian Carter

The News in 90 Seconds - Wednesday, 7th of May

The judge had heard that Amy Molloy had broken stories and covered court cases about Carter's days as a landlord and his tax affairs.

"I was just doing my job," the journalist emphasised when she testified at the hearing.

Judge Halpin dismissed that case: "I never envisaged that this forum would be used to dilute journalistic freedom or restrict publication of certain matters."

He held that Carter endeavoured to use this legal remedy to "suppress" the legitimate publication of facts he did not want in the public domain.

Ronan Lupton SC for the newspaper described that civil restraining order application as a collateral attack that tramples on the right of freedom of expression.

In evidence, the journalist rejected suggestions from the applicant's solicitor that she had stepped over the line, telling Judge Halpin she was simply seeking a comment, offering Carter the right to reply, which was a fundamental part of journalism, and "I was just doing my job".

Carter claimed that she had written 50 articles and had rehashed stories about him since 2017.

In response to his claims, Ms Molloy said since 2017, she had written 17 or 18 articles concerning properties Carter rented out and when he appeared on the tax defaulters list last year.

One of the properties featured in her work was a Cabinteely property, which she alleged had 70 tenants, while Carter claimed it was a 6,000 sq ft 25-roomed mansion with 40 tenants. The Circuit Court had ordered him to pay 20,000 to some of his tenants.

The court heard he was also featured in a 2017 RTE Investigates broadcast called Nightmare to Let.

Ms Molloy explained she had written about his issues with the Residential Tenancies Board, a council and the Revenue Commissioners.

The journalist said that a source informed her that Carter had recently travelled to various destinations, including South America, Canada, and Hawaii.

Ms Molloy asserted that in light of that, she attempted to reach out to him for a comment on whether he had paid up following his settlement of nearly one million euro with the Revenue Commissioners after under-declaring income tax.

She stated, "If Mr Carter had paid his taxes and had not dangerously overcrowded houses, I would never have had to write about him".

Breaching a civil restraining order can result in a 4,000 fine, a criminal conviction and a 12-month prison sentence.
Amy McAuley (35) of Connagh, Fethard-on-Sea, Co. Wexford appeared at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court

A woman told gardai she faked her own death as she could not face going to court to answer theft and deception charges, Dublin Circuit Criminal Court has heard.

Amy McAuley (35) of Connagh, Fethard-on-Sea, Co. Wexford pleaded guilty to one count of the use of a false instrument through submitting a false death notification form to Wexford County Council on January 19, 2023.

She also pleaded guilty to attempting to pervert the course of justice on January 23, 2023 and to a count of forgery of a medical report on November 23, 2022, both at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court at the Criminal Courts of Justice, Parkgate Street.

McAuley also pleaded to a second count of using a false instrument, a medical certificate, at Pearse Street Garda Station on May 28, 2021 and attempted deception in 2018.

She further entered guilty pleas to five counts of theft and one of possession of the proceeds of crime on separate dates between November 2015 and May 2023.

McAuley has four previous convictions for theft and deception offences. She received a sentence of two years, suspended for 10 years in November 2015 for the theft of just under 111,000 from a former employer. She repaid 30,000 on the day of sentence but the balance is outstanding, the court was told.

When interviewed by gardai in 2023, McAuley admitted submitting a false death notification form to obtain a death certificate. She said she knew she was in trouble again, could not face coming to court and did not want to leave her young child.

The court heard evidence today that McAuley obtained a 10,000 personal loan from KBC Bank in 2018 using altered documents she had taken from her then employer.

McAuley also made a separate application to KBC Bank that year for a 5,000 loan using altered identification documents in the name of a woman she had been giving piano lessons to in Co. Meath. This 5,000 loan was declined by the bank.

When arrested in May 2019, McAuley made admissions, apologised and accepted she had not repaid any of the 10,000 loan. She was charged and sent forward for trial before the Circuit Criminal Court on these charges.

Amy McCauley

The News in 90 Seconds - Wednesday, 7th of May

Garda Sergeant Eoghan Kirwan previously gave evidence that gardai separately contacted McAuley in May 2021, looking to interview her about the theft of nine mobile phones from Three Ireland in July 2020.

McAuley told gardai in late May 2021 that she was unwell and provided a medical report, which was later found to be forged.

In December 2021, gardai were contacted by a woman claiming to be McAuley's sister who said the defendant was in treatment and would contact them afterwards.

The following May, 'Winnie', who also claimed to be a sister of McAuley's, told gardai that the defendant had passed away. McAuley made both of these calls.

McAuley also submitted a false death notification form to Wexford County Council on January 19, 2023 with death certificates later issued in McAuley's name and her name in Irish.

The court heard that McAuley had been due to stand trial in January 2023 on the theft and fraud offences relating to the 2018 incidents, but this did not go ahead as it was believed she was dead.

A medical report from the Rotunda Hospital had previously been provided to the court in November 2022, which was a forgery.

McAuley, pretending to be 'Winnie, rang gardai again in May 2023 to obtain an email address to send a death certificate to and gave her telephone number. Later, a female solicitor contacted gardai and provided the same number. Both calls were made by McAuley, the court heard.

A death certificate was later emailed to gardai by a firm of solicitors, who were unaware of McAuley's deception.

During their investigation, gardai discovered three death notices for McAuley on RIP.ie.

The first stated that McAuley had died in France, and was removed after her mother told the site the defendant was not dead.

A second notice was uploaded to the site on January 4, 2023 by a fictional undertaker, which McAuley had created.

This notice stated that McAuley had died on December 26, 2022 and included details of a funeral and cremation, but gardai confirmed no records existed that these had taken place.

A third death notice appeared in McAuley's Irish name, saying she had died in Belfast.

Gardai contacted the general registry in June 2023 and obtained two death certificates for McAuley, one of which used her Irish name. Doctors confirmed they had not signed the death notification forms, which had been used to obtain these death certificates.

When interviewed by gardai on separate occasions, McAuley admitted wrongdoing. She told gardai she knew she was in trouble again, and believed everything would be okay if she was deceased because she could be with her young child. She also said she could not face going to court.

The court heard that gardai became aware that McAuley was due to attend a wedding in Enniscorthy in June 2023, and identified her from CCTV footage at the venue.

Gardai carried out a search of McAuley's home in Co. Wexford on June 24, 2023. She was living there with her husband, who was unaware of her activities, and her young child.

A booklet of death notification forms were found during the search along with banking information and identification for 'Winnie' .

McAuley admitted ordering the nine phones from Three Ireland in 2020 and sending a false medical certificate to gardai in 2021. She also confirmed a mobile phone number used during these incidents was hers.

A payment of 9,000 to an AIB account in McAuley's name was also identified during the garda investigation.

In January 2023, a Northern Irish company that McAuley had been working for was told she had died the previous month.

Amy McAuley. Photo: Collins

The company contacted 'Charles' by email, who was listed on McAuley's employee records as her father, and he confirmed McAuley's death.

While a claim for the company's death-in-service benefit of 96,000 was pending, 'Winnie' contacted them in May 2023. 'Winnie' said she was minding McAuley's infant child and needed money from the death-in-service benefit upfront to cover surgery costs for the child.

The company made a goodwill payment of 9,000 on May 15, 2023 into McAuley's AIB account. This has not been repaid, the court was told

Investigating gardai agreed with Rebecca Smith BL, defending, that her client's guilty pleas were valuable to the prosecution, that she has not come to recent negative garda attention and complied with bail conditions.

It was accepted that when gardai arrived to search her home in June 2023, she told them she knew why they were there and that her husband was not involved.

It was further accepted that McAuley acted alone, and there are no indications she has been living a lavish lifestyle.

Ms Smith told the court this was an extraordinarily complex case in which her client had engaged in a significant period of offending.

She said McAuley had been living a crazy, chaotic existence but this has now stabilised.

Counsel said her client is apologetic, aware that her past is catching up to her and accepts she is facing a custodial sentence.

McAuley married in 2022 and has a young child, who has health issues.

Letters of apology, medical reports and other documents were handed to the court. McAuley herself has medical and mental health difficulties.

Ms Smith submitted to the court her client will have no real prospect of future employment, suggesting that money could be deducted from social welfare payments to repay money owed.

Judge Orla Crowe adjourned the case for finalisation next week.

Amy McCauley

The court also heard that the Director of Public Prosecutions appealed the sentence imposed on McAuley in 2015 on the grounds of undue leniency.

The Court of Appeal declined to change it, instead giving McAuley seven-and-half years to repay the money, but no further payments have been made.

The court was told McAuley was working as an assistant accountant in 2015 when a colleague saw a media report about her conviction. When asked about this, McAuley confirmed it was her and immediately resigned.

An internal investigation identified that McAuley had given her account details to some clients when her then-employer introduced a new electronic payments system. Affected clients believed they were making payments to the company.

One affected client made electronic transfers of approximately 49,100 to her account, to pay invoices owed to McAuley's employer. This money has never been repaid to her then-employer, the court was told.

A Tipperary co-op also paid around 6,500 to McAuley's account and she later forwarded on two payments totalling 6,550 to her then employer.

McAuley also stole nine mobile phones, worth 3,199, from Three Ireland in July 2020, which were ordered online using false documents which claimed that the company's chief financial officer had placed the order.

When interviewed, McAuley said she used the money from the theft of the phones to cover rent and medication.

McAuley told gardai she had moved to Galway to run away from her troubles, but her life spiralled out of control.
Leanne Kelly (34) is accused of getting onto the abandoned bus with a burning piece of rubbish and torching it

A woman completely destroyed a Dublin bus by setting it alight during the November 2023 riot in the city centre, it is alleged.

Leanne Kelly (34) is accused of getting onto the abandoned bus with a burning piece of rubbish and torching it, causing more than 477,000 worth of damage.

She appeared in court today charged with arson during street violence that erupted in central Dublin after three children and a woman were injured in a knife attack.

Ms Kelly is the latest person arrested as part of the ongoing investigation into what was one of the worst outbreaks of public disorder in the history of the state.

Her bail application was adjourned for a week at Dublin District Court.

Ms Kelly, of no fixed address, is charged with causing criminal damage to a Dublin bus at OConnell Bridge on November 23, 2023.

Detective Garda Barry Brennan told Judge Michele Finan he arrested the accused for the purpose of charging her this morning. She made no reply after caution and was handed a copy of the charge sheet.

Dublin riots

The News in 90 Seconds - Wednesday, 7th of May

The DPP directed trial on indictment, Der Gda Brennan said.

Objecting to bail, he cited the seriousness of the allegations, the 10-year maximum prison sentence and his fear that the accused would not turn up in court.

Det Gda Brennan said the charge related to the Dublin city riots of 2023. He said the incident happened at 7.30pm when Ms Kelly allegedly picked up a piece of rubbish and ran to a garda car that was already on fire.

It was alleged she extracted flames from the car onto the rubbish and ran to a Dublin bus that had been abandoned. Other rioters had surrounded the bus, attacked the driver and forced him off, the court heard.

According to the prosecution, Ms Kelly ran through the middle doors and onto the bus where she threw the burning piece of rubbish onto the ground.

This set the bus alight and it was completely destroyed, at a cost of 477,851 Det Gda Brennan said.

On the strength of the proposed evidence, the garda said the entire incident was captured on CCTV and the accused identified herself in the footage.

He did not believe she would attend court if granted bail.

Applying for bail, defence solicitor Niall OConnor said his client presented as a very different lady here today than the lady who was seen on the footage. She could stay at her family home in Wicklow if granted bail.

Gda Brennan said Ms Kelly had been living rough in the north inner city. Judge Finan adjourned the bail hearing to May 14, remanding the accused in custody.

Ms Kelly did not address the court and has not yet indicated a plea to the charge.

To date, a total of 85 people have been arrested or interviewed as part of the ongoing investigation into the riot. This includes some nine arrests made by gardai in Store Street between last Sunday and Tuesday.

The nine arrested were three women, four men and two boys. Two of the women were charged and released on garda station bail to appear in court on a later date. The two juveniles were released pending the submission of files to the director of the Youth Diversion Programme.

The other suspects were released without charge pending the submission of files to the DPP.

Of the 85 arrested, some 66 have been charged with offences including committing riot, arson, violent disorder, possession of weapons and theft.

Several have already been convicted.

Gardai continue to appeal to anyone with information about the events of the day or anyone involved in organising or participating in these events to come forward.
The woman is expected to appear before Court 1 in the Criminal Courts of Justice to be charged with criminal damage to the bus at OConnell Street Lower on November 23

A woman is due in court this morning to be charged in relation to an arson attack on a Dublin Bus during the riots of November 23, 2023.

The woman is expected to appear before Court 1 in the Criminal Courts of Justice to be charged with criminal damage to the bus at OConnell Street Lower.

A Garda spokesperson said that separately, between Sunday, May 4, and today, Tuesday, May 6, gardai in Store Street have arrested nine people in connection with ongoing investigations into the serious public disorder events that occurred in Dublin city centre.

The News in 90 Seconds - Wednesday, 7th of May

Of the nine arrested, three were adult females, four were adult males and two were male juveniles, the spokesperson said.

Two of the females were charged and released on station bail to appear in court at a later date.

The two male juveniles were released pending the submission of files to the Director of the Youth Diversion Programme.

The remaining were released without charge pending the submission of files to the DPP.

Gardai added that, to date, this brings to a total the number of people arrested or interviewed in relation to their alleged offending on the day and night if the riots to 85. Of those 66 have been charged with offences.

A total of 24 people have now been arrested as a result of the media appeal to the public in November 2024.

An Garda Siochana continues to appeal to anyone with information about the events on that day, or anyone involved in organising or participating in these events, to contact the Garda investigation team at Store Street Garda Station at 01 666 8000, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda station, the Garda Press Office said in a statement.

Issued by Garda Press Office on 07/05/2025 08:29:02
He was in a prison class and appeared to have an Open University course he was doing open on the main screen.

A CHILD sex offender is at the centre of a Garda investigation after allegedly admitting to downloading inappropriate material of minors during a prison class.

The inmate is understood to have been spotted trying to access material by a fellow prisoner while working on a computer as part of an Open University course at Dublins Arbour Hill Prison last week.

The prisoner, who cannot be named for legal reasons has since been given a disciplinary P19 by the Irish Prison Services and the incident has been referred on to the gardai for further investigation.

The Irish Prison Service (IPS) currently allows inmates supervised access to the internet for educational purposes and in some circumstances to maintain contact with family but not for general usage.

When contacted, the IPS confirmed that an incident had been sent forward to the gardai for further investigation.

A spokesman for the IPS said: The Irish Prison Service does not comment on individual prisoner cases.

The Irish Prison Service can confirm an investigation into an incident at Arbour Hill Prison has commenced and the matter has been referred to An Garda Siochana. 

According to the IPS on their website the viewing, downloading or distribution of offensive material is strictly prohibited and as such will be deemed as misbehaviour.

Speaking about the alleged incident, a source said: This prisoner in question is serving a sentence for a sexual crime against a minor.

He was in a prison class and appeared to have an Open University course he was doing open on the main screen.

A fellow inmate reported spotting him accessing sexual material of a child to prison staff and when confronted about it, the inmate admitted to stumbling across the material while on the computer.

The source added: Despite inmates only having limited access, if they have a background in computers or are tech savvy they can find ways around it.

It certainly raises questions as to whether certain inmates should be allowed to have access to computers and what further safe guards need to be implemented to stop such incidents occurring.

It will be up to the gardai to do a full investigation into the incident and to identify if such material was accessed. Whether a digital print remains of said content."

A Garda spokesman refused to comment on the matter, he stated: Any matters relating to individuals serving sentences and in the custody of the Irish Prison Service (IPS) are, in the first instance, the responsibility of prison authorities.

An Garda Siochana does not comment on, discuss, confirm, or deny speculation regarding any communications from third parties.
Kim Hall (28), from Middlesbrough, was arrested in the US last August after authorities say she picked up two suitcases with 43kg of cocaine in Mexico and transported them to Chicago's O'Hare airport

Friends have expressed concerns for her as she is back behind bars in the US

A beautician who was allegedly caught trying to smuggle $6.2 million worth of cocaine into the US has failed in alleged bid to trick authorities into deporting her.

Kim Hall (28), from Middlesbrough, was arrested in the US last August after authorities say she picked up two suitcases with 43kg of cocaine in Mexico and transported them to Chicago's O'Hare airport.

She was about to board a connecting flight home to the UK when she was apprehended.

She is said to have admitted to investigators that she'd been given the bags during a trip to Mexico and was asked to take them back to Manchester in England.

She was initially held at Illinoiss notorious Cook County Jail, one of the largest jails in America that was once home to gangster Al Capone and serial killer John Wayne Gacy.

However, after being temporarily freed on an electronic monitoring tag, she presented herself to Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers in February to be deported.

She booked a flight and was about to leave Illinois for England when Cook County Prosecutors rumbled the plot, it has been reported.

Judge Michael McHale has now revoked the electronic monitoring and she is back behind bars, the Chicago Tribune revealed.

According to the judge, Hall was almost successful in her attempt to flee the United States, while prosecutors are trying to establish if ICE agents were aware of the charges Hall was facing.

Hall has been charged with two class X felonies, including controlled substance trafficking and possession with intent to deliver.

Having been indicted by a grand jury in September 2024, prosecutors demanded that she remain behind bars over fears she was a flight risk.

Friends have expressed concerns for her as she is back behind bars in the US

However, a judge refused, and instead ordered her to hand over her passport and wear an ankle monitor so authorities could keep a tab on her.

Hall's attorney Brandon Hall, who has said Kimberly is obviously a very small fish in a grander scheme of things, claims she had actually been detained by ICE while seeking information about finding a job in the United States.

The kiosk official saw the electronic monitoring device on Ms Hall and assumed it was from ICE and instructed her to go to their office in the same building, Carter's motion said.

Kimberly Hall has claimed she is innocent

The News in 90 Seconds - Wednesday, 7th of May

When she spoke to an ICE official she was arrested and placed in custody.

He suggested ICE agents had overreacted to an honest enquiry about finding work, which prosecutors have now interpreted as a bid to flee.

Carter wants Hall released from jail again and a hearing to determine whether she should remain behind bars has been scheduled for May 16.

Hall has insisted that she was unaware of the contents of the suitcase as she thought she was moving cash from property transactions.

Her mother, Tracy (59) previously told MailOnline they are certain Kim will be able to tell the real story in time while family have previously expressed concerns about Hall's safety at the jail, where 18 deaths occurred in 2023.

"Everyone is beside themselves with worry over Kim's safety in that prison, one friend told MailOnline following her arrest.

"The thought of that sweet, shy, timid girl locked up in a place like that is unbearable. No one could believe it when word got out that Kim had been arrested on drugs charges, you couldn't have picked a person less likely to be involved in something like that."

Describing Kim as a lovely hard working girl with her own business they say she has never been in trouble with the law in her life.

A more recent mugshot of Hall

She likes to be close to home and I can't imagine what she must be going through now, stuck so far away at the other side of the world."

Hall was arrested by Homeland Security as she was about to get a connecting flight home to Manchester.

She has claimed she met two men who said they were property developers on an earlier trip to Portugal.

They invited her to stay with them and then offered her a free holiday, but allegedly coerced her taking two suitcases home which she claims they had packed, and that she thought contained $250,000 in cash.

Her family back home in the UK say the only thing she's guilty of is being stupid and being naive.

Her dad John (59) told The Sun: She's not a drug smuggler.

She was told that it would be money she was carrying, he said. They got her phone and threatened her family and thats why she did it.

She'd been to Portugal with a friend and met people over there who contacted her when she was back saying they were into real estate in Mexico and she could go for a free holiday.

Her friend declined but she said she would go. She's never been into trouble, nothing at all. Shes had a good upbringing and has always worked for her money.

The sheer volume of drugs seized means the 28-year-old faces a Class X Felony typically carrying 15-60 year prison sentence.
Cops found the hard drive hidden beneath a dead dog buried on the property

Disturbing new evidence has been found on a hard drive hidden in the secret lair of Madeline McCann murder suspect Christian Brueckner.

Cops discovered a hard drive containing pictures at a disused factory in Neuwegersleben, Germany, which was purchased by Bruckner in 2008, just one year after the British toddler vanished.

Details of the find have been reported by The Sun ahead of a Channel 4 documentary on the case set to air tonight.

The contents of the hard drive have not been revealed, however, its believed that it was photographs taken in Portugal that led police to conclude that the 3-year-old was dead.

The files were uncovered in 2016 when a dog ran onto the property and appeared to find a grave.

When authorities dug, they discovered a deceased dog lying on top of a wallet containing six USB sticks and two memory cards, which reportedly contained disturbing materials.

Following this, 100 cops launched a full-scale search, finding children's clothes and toys, as well as masks, chemicals and three black market guns.

The sinister items also included stories allegedly written by the German national, one of which detailed the abuse of a four-year-old blonde girl.

Child abuse images, records of Skype conversations with paedophiles and 75 children's swimming costumes were also found, as well as a metal case of photographs depicting girls believed to be aged four and five.

In one of the Skype conversations, Brueckner said he wanted to capture something small and use it for days.

Data from his Satellite Navigation showed his movements in the Algarve, Portugal, in the years following Maddies disappearance.

One nude selfie taken by Bruckner links him to the Arada Dam, 35 miles from Praia da Luz, where Madeleine McCann vanished on May 3rd 2007.

While attending a music festival with a friend, Brueckner once confessed that he took the tot.

Missing Madeleine McCann and suspect Christian Brueckner

The News in 90 Seconds - Wednesday, 7th of May

An insurance claim filed by Brueckner after he crashed his motorhome at the festival was found among his items. It was signed in April 2008, proving he attended the festival and further corroborating the witnesss account.

Following the search at his bolthole, Brueckner was convicted of abusing a five-year-old girl in a park after images were found on his laptop - but he was already on the run.

In September 2018 he was arrested in Italy on outstanding drug charges and extradited to Germany the following year where he was convicted for the rape of an American woman in Praia da Luz in 2005 and given a seven year prison sentence.

In June 2020, German prosecutors announced their belief that Madeline was deceased when they revealed that they had a suspect in custody.

Christian Brueckner went on trial accused of five separate counts of rape and sexual assault which prosecutors allege he committed in Portugal between 2000 and 2017.

In one instance he was accused of raping a young Irish woman after he broke into her apartment via the balcony while she was sleeping. Its alleged he threatened her with a knife and raped her several times.

A court heard that Hazel Behan (40), from Co Westmeath, was raped by him in June 2004 while working as a holiday rep in Portugal.

He was acquitted of all charges, but Behan has now lodged an application to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) alleging inaction by Portuguese police in identifying and prosecuting Brueckner for her rape.

Brueckner is expected to be released from prison in September.

Madeline McCann vanished from her familys holiday rental in Praia da Luz, Portugal, in May 2007.

The tot slept in a bedroom with her two younger twin siblings as their parents dined at a nearby restaurant with their friends.

When Madelines mother, Kate, checked on her children at around 10 pm, Maddie was not there, and the alarm was raised.

The case of the missing tot captivated the world, and continues to do so as no trace of the 3-year-old has ever been found, despite an international manhunt to find her.

No one has ever been charged in connection with her disappearance.
According to local media, the man was incoherent and had visible injuries, including a bleeding wound on his forehead between his eyebrows and another at the base of his ear

Crowd walk through the down town area of Pattaya, in Thailand

An Irishman has been arrested In Thailand following a bloody bar fight that left him with injures to his head.

Authorities have taken the 29-year-old man who claimed he was an Irish national into custody following an incident in the city of Pattaya.

The Sawang Boriboon Rescue Center said it received a report of a fight resulting in injuries at 3.19am.

Rescue personnel and patrol officers were dispatched to the scene of the fight that occurred at an unidentified beer bar in Soi 6 off of Pattaya Second Road.

Local journalists have reported than when they and police arrived they were informed by witnesses that a foreign male suspect involved in the fight had fled into the nearby Runway Market, which was closed for the evening, located approximately 100 metres from the incident.

Crowd walk through the down town area of Pattaya, in Thailand

The News in 90 Seconds - Wednesday, 7th of May

Police and rescue workers followed and found what was described as a heavily intoxicated foreign man who claimed to be a 29-year-old Irish national, although he had no identification documents on his person.

According to Pattaya News, the man was incoherent and had visible injuries, including a bleeding wound on his forehead between his eyebrows and another at the base of his ear.

The site reports that rescue workers attempted first aid, but the man, still heavily intoxicated initially resisted and was uncooperative.

It was only when Pattaya Police patrol officers arrived that he calmed down and allowed personnel to treat him for his injuries.

The Pattaya News claims that the foreign man and his wife told police that they had been drinking in the bar when they were allegedly attacked by a group of women and transgender individuals which caused his injuries.

He then fled to the market where he claimed he did nothing to provoke the attack.

However, a 31-year-old bar employee, named only as Ms Nan, later came forward claiming the foreign man had initiated the violence, and had injured two bar staff members who were since taken to a local hospital.

Ms. Nan stated that it was the man and his girlfriend who were drinking in the bar that had caused the trouble.

She said that when she tried to intervene, the couple allegedly pushed and assaulted bar staff and punched a female employee.

The staff fought back, leading to a brawl in which Nan admitted to throwing a glass at the man after he allegedly punched her in the left eye.

The foreign man and his girlfriend then fled the bar.

The intoxicated foreign man was taken into custody and brought to the police station for further questioning.

Police have advised both parties to file complaints at Pattaya City Police Station.

A detective team has been assigned to review CCTV footage from the bar to determine the sequence of events and whose story is the more accurate.

Authorities promised to ensure fairness for both the foreign man and the injured Thai bar workers, with legal action to be taken against those found at fault.
The smell of drugs has been enveloping the district for days

Turkish police burn the mounds of cannabis arranged into the town's name of 'Lice'

The 25,000 residents of a small Turkish town got accidently high after police burned more than 20 tons of seized cannabis.

Police torched the mounds of confiscated weed in Lice, a town located in a rural area in the south-eastern Turkish province of Diyarbakr, leaving locals dizzy, queasy, and, in some cases, delusional.

The smell of drugs has been enveloping the district for days, one man complained to local media. We cannot open our windows. Our children got sick, we are constantly going to the hospital.

Authorities had set fire to the drugs, worth an estimated 10 billion Turkish Lira (or about 230m) that had been gathered from around the province in 2023 and 2024.

Turkish police burn the mounds of cannabis arranged into the town's name of 'Lice'

The News in 90 Seconds - Wednesday, 7th of May

The massive drug disposal operation, conducted on April 18 by the Lice District Gendarmerie Command, sent thick smoke billowing across the town for days.

The ensuing haze permeated the town of 25,000 people, TurkiyeToday.com reports, with families forced to keep windows closed and avoided venturing outside their THC-saturated town.

However, cops then arranged bags of cannabis into letters spelling out the towns name before setting them ablaze, a display that Yahya Oger, Chairman of the Yesil Yldz Association, said was "unacceptable" and "lacking professionalism."

This was perhaps done as a preventive measure to deter, but the fact that it was destroyed in the city centre could cause serious discomfort to people due to the smoke of burned hemp, Oger said.

He suggested that in future drug disposals should take place in factories with filtered chimneys, instead of where people live and breathe.

As you know, the destruction or burning of such herbs can also cause serious intoxication, Oger added. Just as tobacco harms passive smokers when used in a closed area, the smoke released by such narcotic substances when disposed of can cause serious discomfort.

It can make people drunk, dizzy, nauseated, and cause hallucinations.

Oger's organisation has offered to provide educational programmes about drug awareness for law enforcement and schools.

Despite the widespread impact, no formal complaints have been filed with the association, though residents continue to report health issues to the media and local organisations.

The operations that led to the seizure resulted in legal proceedings against 1,941 individuals, according to the governor's office.

In 2020, security forces seized 1.1 million cannabis plants and 756 kilos of heroin in Lice, which was among the biggest of its kind in what has been described as a drug hot spot.

Gendarmerie troops found the cannabis in a counterterrorism operation in Lices Kralan and Yukar Duru neighborhoods, the local governorate announced at the time.

The operation against narco-terrorism aims to shed light on drug smugglers and producers with the terrorist group PKK which has long been active in Diyarbakr and the wider south-eastern region.

The cannabis plants were found in 13 different spots while heroin was discovered hidden in sacks in a land plot dotted with bushes. Security forces also discovered a long water hose hidden inside the cannabis fields for irrigation. Authorities demolished the plants by burning them.

Security forces frequently carry out operations against PKK-linked cannabis cultivation areas in rural Diyarbakr.

The PKK is accused of smuggling drugs to and from Europe as well as cultivating cannabis in south-eastern Turkey as a way to fund its illegal activities.

A Turkish police report released last year said the terrorist group produces heroin in laboratories in its camps in northern Iraq and sells it to Europe.
The investigation also found evidence of falsified birth certificates and allegations of "people trafficking

Up to 10,000 women and babies may have been deported from Britain to Ireland between 1931 and 1977 in a forced adoption scandal, according to a new ITV report.

ITV News carried out a year-long investigation into the story, which the broadcaster said shows women and babies were deported from Britain and incarcerated in state institutions because the mothers were unmarried.

The mothers then had their children forcibly adopted.

The investigation also found evidence of falsified birth certificates and allegations of "people trafficking.

The children, now adults, often only found out they were British citizens decades later.

Survivors are now campaigning for compensation from both the Irish and British governments.

One mother, Terri Harrison, experienced a "day of horror" when she came home to find a priest and two nuns waiting for her in London.

They told her she had "committed a crime" because she was pregnant outside of marriage.

I was no match for this man and he just threw me into the car and pushed me down into the back seat, she said. I started to become invisible from the minute he got me."

Ms Harrison was flown from Heathrow to Cork and was one of thousands of women "imprisoned" in Bessborough mother and baby home in Cork. Once there she was "processed" and given a new name and number.

She said: "I became Tracey 1735; we werent human any more. I was abducted from one country and brought back to this one, and my son was sleeping peacefully in his cot and a stranger in a black habit stripped him and walked out of that institution.

"Thats kidnapping. Thats what happened to me. We must speak the truth."

Terri Harrison has helped unveil the truth behind a British-Irish forced adoption scandal. Source: ITV News.

News in 90 Seconds - Tuesday, May 6th

ITV News said documentation from the time shows a religious organisation called the Crusade of Rescue, now known as the Catholic Childrens Society, based in London, was involved in the adoption and repatriation of Irish women and children from Britain from the 1930s to the 1970s.

Paul Cullen was four months old when he made the journey by boat from Holyhead in Wales to Dublin.

He had always known that he had been born in London and adopted in Dublin, but only recently found out the truth about his birth and his early years.

Mr Cullen (62) told ITV News: I went half a century without knowing. When the law was changed in 2021, I was eventually allowed access to my files. I began to realise that I was part of something much bigger and the moment the penny dropped and I saw the acronym 'PFI', pregnant from Ireland.

Mr Cullen, the former health editor of The Irish Times, was born at Whittington Hospital in north London in 1963, and then spent a month at St Pelagias home for unmarried mothers in Highgate, north London, which was run by Catholic nuns.

He contacted ITV News after seeing the publications investigation into the home.

His mother, who was in her 20s and working as a nurse in London, was unmarried and pressured to return to Ireland, where he was placed for adoption, a journey organised through the Crusade of Rescue.

He was issued a second Irish birth certificate which falsely states that he was born in Dublin, when in fact he is a British citizen.

The retired journalist has now reunited with his birth mother but the man he thought was his father died just weeks before they were due to meet.

Fiona Cahills mother Maria was born in a Red Cross mother and baby home in London in 1954, but as a newborn, she was sent to an Irish institution with her mother Philomena, who was unmarried.

Philomena had moved from Ireland to London for work as a teenager and later met Maria's father. Like thousands of others, she was labelled as a PFI.

Ms Cahill, (50), an artist and carer, said her mother had PTSD symptoms and that trauma has been passed down the generations.

Maria, who lived in Doncaster, Yorkshire, and passed away in 2023 aged 69, only found out she was adopted when she was 21 when she applied for a passport.

It wasnt until she was 40 that she discovered she was a British citizen after finding out that she had two birth certificates, a UK one and a falsified Irish one.

A spokesperson for the Catholic Childrens Society  formerly known as the Crusade of Rescue  said: "We recognise that many young mothers in the past felt they had no choice but to place their child for adoption due to the stigma of being unmarried and the lack of support available to them from the government, their families and wider society at the time.

"This is deeply regrettable and a tragedy for all involved. Our agency supported mothers to place their child for adoption when requested. Our records also show cases where the Crusade of Rescue offered support to unmarried mothers to help them keep their child.

"Today we offer a post-adoption service to support all those who were adopted through us, and their families... We take this responsibility very seriously and work hard to provide an open and transparent service."
She is being detained by ICE over minor convictions from almost 20 years ago, which were supposed to have been expunged from her record.

Irish woman Cliona Ward who was detained in the United States at an Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention centre is due to appear court today.

The hearing, which will be held in Seattle, is scheduled for 4.30pm Irish time.

Family, friends and colleagues are set to gather in solidarity outside the detention centre in Washington state before the hearing.

Cliona Ward, who has lived legally in America for decades, is originally from Dublin but lives in Santa Cruz, California.

She is being detained by ICE over minor convictions from almost 20 years ago, which were supposed to have been expunged from her record.

Her sister Tracey previously said that they feared it might be as late as August before she could stand before a judge.

Cliona has a green card, which allows her to live and work in the United States, where she has lived legally for decades.

She had six convictions, including two felonies for possession of drugs and four misdemeanours for minor offences, and one for "failure to notify DMV [Department of Motor Vehicles] of address change within 10 days.

However, the convictions were expunged as she pleaded guilty to the charges.

Tracey told RTEs Prime Time that she was told that the expungement of Clionas convictions is not recognised by federal law.

"The reason theyre giving is that expungement in a State is not recognised by federal law.

"The agents said that since January 31st of this year, there was a whole lot of new mandates they were given to follow up.

Trump has them really clamping down on anyone with a green card who might have anything in their past that can be used against them, she explained.

Irish woman in the US Cliona Ward

The News in 90 Seconds - Wednesday, 7th of May

Cliona has travelled in and out of the United States numerous times without issue.

"As far as she was concerned, this was 20 years ago.

She had gone through the court system, done everything that the courts in California had asked her to do, rebuilding her life, becoming an amazing part of her community, believing that she had paid her dues, Tracey explained.

"They never at any time told her that it would only be on a state level and not recognised federally," she added.

Cliona was initially detained by ICE in Seattle when she returned from visiting her dying father in Ireland last month.

She was released and told to report to San Francisco with proof of her expungement; however, when she got there, she was reapprehended, charged with moral turpitude and shipped to Washington.

"[She] was met at the airport by ICE agents and shackled and chained and walked through the airport in shackles and chains. And now she's in an ICE detention centre," Tracey said.

Clionas sister Orla Holladay told the Santa Cruz Sentinel that she is terrified she is going to get lost in the system.

Shes afraid that shes going to get lost in the system. That was the one thing she said to me: Please dont let me get lost.

Orla said Cliona has been sober for almost 20 years currently works at a nonprofit Christian organisation teaching soil management and conservation to child.

This has to do with a painful addiction, and she did everything she could do to change that, said Holladay.

Shes a viable, valuable part of this community, she said, describing her as a gentle, loving and private person.

Cliona is a carer for her chronically ill adult son Malaki who is now being cared for by Orla Holladay, who also lives stateside.

A fundraiser has been set up to help her family fund an immigration attorney, and it has so far raised $46,933 of a $40,000 target.

An update on the page Cliona's Hope: A Mother's Fight for Freedom, her sister Orla thanked all those who had helped so far.

Her lawyer met with her today, and it was both a relief for Cliona to know that she has representation but also very painful and scary when her lawyer told her she may be in there for months while we fight for her release.

She said the water is undrinkable, the food is not fit to eat and her biggest consolation today was that her lawyer was able to bring her a pen.

I'm exhausted and sick, and its hard to eat. Went back to my classroom today but its so hard to focus. We fight again tomorrow for her freedom and bring awareness to all of the innocent detainees in these detention centres.

Orla had previously written about how she woke with a very heavy and vulnerable heart thinking about Cliona sitting in a concrete jungle on May Day, a day when she would normally be out planting and taking care of this beautiful planet.

She told how she found out that when her sister had been taken off the plane in Tacoma officers handcuffed, shackled her and escorted her through, the airport, like a hardened criminal.

She was mortified, shamed and demoralised, Orla wrote, adding that the detention centre is worse than prison.

Visitors can't even bring her food, which she said is gross.

She said that she has been really depressed but knowing people are keeping eyes on her lifted her again. She shared that although she can't speak with the majority of the women in there because most don't speak English they have been giving each other support and there are lots of tears and hugs between the women.
They named their son Oscar after Oscar Piastri who won the Grand Prix on Sunday

A Wexford couple had an unexpected twist to their trip to Miami for the F1 Grand Prix when their son was born 13 weeks premature.

Edel and Thomas Dunphy flew out to Miami for their long-awaited trip last Friday and were due to fly home on Tuesdaybut theyve had to extend their time stateside after their baby boy, Oscar, was born more than three months premature.

The couple were on the trip as a last hurrah before they became parents, as Edel was reassured it was safe to fly.

Just hours after landing, she was rushed to hospital after experiencing sudden complications.

The incredible medical team here quickly discovered further, silent issuesones that could have gone undetected had we not acted fast, the couple shared on their GoFundMe page.

Within hours, we were faced with an unimaginable decision: wait until morning to allow time for steroid treatment, or deliver our baby via emergency C-section immediately.

The couple said they were thankful that they acted straight away after doctors said even a short delay might have meant losing their baby.

Baby Oscar is now in the care of a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) where he will need to remain for the next 10 to 12 weeks.

The first few days are critical as he undergoes constant monitoring and care, the couple explained.

The Dunphys are trying to raise funds to pay for their stay stateside, as once she is discharged from hospital they will need to arrange suitable accommodation nearby.

Edel Dunphy and her newborn son Oscar

The News in 90 Seconds - Wednesday, 7th of May

The couple are also facing mounting hospital bills, and will have to fund a safe route back to Ireland with their newborn once he is discharged from hospital.

Edel and Thomas revealed that their son was named Oscar as a tribute to Oscar Piastris F1 Grand Prix win: He is our little champion, they explained.

We are reaching out with humble hearts to ask for your support during this challenging time.

Any contribution, no matter the size, will help us cover the overwhelming costs ahead: accommodation, transport, baby care essentials, and the complex process of repatriation.

The couple shared their sincere thanks with donors, who have so far raised 17,515 to help the family.
Why are India and Pakistan on the brink of war and how dangerous is the situation?

India has launched military strikes against a number of sites in Pakistan and Pakistans side of the disputed region of Kashmir, reportedly killing 26 people and injuring dozens more. India claimed the attacks were on terrorist infrastructure, but Pakistan denied this, and said these were civilians.

India says another ten people on the Indian side of the Kashmir region have been killed by shelling from Pakistan in the same period.

The exchange comes two weeks after a terrorist attack in Kashmir killed 26 people. The group Resistance Front (TRF), which India argues is a proxy for the Pakistani-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the attack.

India claimed that Pakistan had indirectly supported the terrorist attack, but Pakistan vehemently denies this.

The escalating conflict between two of the worlds major military powers has the potential to destablise Asia and beyond. Already, many countries around the world, including the UK, France and Russia, have made public their concerns about what happens next.

How do India and Pakistans militaries compare?

India is ranked as one of the worlds top five military nations by Military Watch magazine and Pakistan is ranked ninth. Both countries have nuclear weapons.

Overall, India is considered to have the military edge with a bigger and more modern military force, while Pakistan has a smaller and more agile force that has been primarily focused on defensive and covert activities.

While neither country has used nuclear weapons in a conflict, there are always concerns that this norm may be broken. Both countries are nuclear powers with India holding 180 nuclear warheads, and Pakistan possessing about 170.

Though India has a no first use policy, which it claims means the country would never use nuclear weapons first, there have been signs it is reconsidering this policy since 2019.

Pakistan has never declared a no first use policy and argues that tactical nuclear weapons are important to countering Indias larger conventional forces.

The concern is that even if a small nuclear exchange were to take place between the two countries, it could kill up to 20 million people in a matter of days.

Why are the countries fighting over Kashmir?

Kashmir has been a source of tension and conflict even before India and Pakistan gained independence from the British empire in 1947. Originally the Muslim-majority Kashmir was free to accede to either India or Pakistan.

While the local ruler (maharaja), Hari Singh, originally wanted Kashmir to be independent, he eventually sided with India, leading to a conflict in 1947. This resulted in a UN-mediated ceasefire in 1949 and agreement that Kashmir would be controlled partly by Pakistan and partly by India, splitl along whats known as the Line of Surveillance (or Line of Control).

As Kashmir is rich in minerals such as borax, sapphire, graphite, marble, gypsum and lithium, the region is strategically important. It is also culturally and historically important to both Pakistan and India.

Due to the regions significance and disagreement over sovereignty, multiple conflicts have taken place over Kashmir, with wars erupting in 1965 and 1999. Tensions were renewed in 2016, after 19 Indian soldiers were killed in Uri, on the Indian side of Kashmir. India responded by launching surgical strikes across the Line of Control, targeting alleged militant bases.

Then in 2019, a bombing in Pulwama (again part of the Indian-administered Kashmir) that killed more than 40 Indian paramilitary personnel led to Indian airstrikes in Balakot which borders Kashmir. This was the first action inside Pakistan since the Indian-Pakistani conflict in 1971 and again led to retaliatory raids from Pakistan and a brief aerial conflict.

These past conflicts never intensified further in part because India applied a massive diplomatic pressure campaign on the US, the UK and Pakistan, warning against escalation, while Pakistan showed a willingness to back down. Both sides as nuclear powers (India gained nuclear weapons in 1974 and Pakistan in 1998) had an understanding that escalating to full-scale war would be incredibly risky.

What will happen next?

The question is whether or not cooler heads will prevail this time. The strikes by India, part of Operation Sinhoor, were met with mass approval across many political lines in India, with both the ruling Bharatiya Janata party (BJP) and the opposition Congress party voicing their support for the operation.

This helps Modi gain more backing, at a time when his popularity has been falling. Modi and the BJP suffered a shocking result in the 2024 election, losing 63 seats out of 543 seats and falling short of a majority in the Lok Sabha (lower house of parliament).

Under Modi, India has been rapidly becoming more autocratic, another source of concern as such countries are more likely to take risks when it comes to conflict. As power becomes increasingly personalised and dissent is repressed, would-be autocrats may be more likely to take on bold moves to garner more public and elite support.

Pakistan may also have reason to respond with more force to Indias recent attack than in the past. Pakistans powerful military has often stoked fears of a conflict with India to justify its enormous military budget. Regardless of the outcome, it needs a success to sell to its domestic audience.

Pakistan has been de facto led by its military for decades, which also makes it more likely to engage in conflict. In spite of intervals of civilian rule, the military has always held a lot of power, and in contrast to India (where there is a wider role for a civilian minister of defence), the Pakistani military has more influence over nuclear and security policy.

Both military regimes and multi-party autocracies may see conflict as a way of gaining legitimacy, particularly if both regimes think their political support is unravelling.

Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UKs latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences. Join The Conversation for free today.

This most recent escalation is also significant because it is the first time in the Kashmir conflict that India has struck at Punjab, considered the heart of Pakistan. Pakistan will face internal pressure to respond, settle the score and restore deterrence.

Both sides have been resolute in not losing an inch of territory. The question is how quickly diplomatic pressure can work. Neither India nor Pakistan are engaged in security dialogue, and there is no bilateral crisis management mechanisms in place.

Further complicating matters is that the USs role as a crisis manager in south Asia has diminished. Under Donald Trump, Washington cannot be counted on. This all makes deescalating this conflict much more difficult.




Eamonn Holmes said he had suffered the sorest and most powerful knock to his head that he had ever experienced after slipping on a wet floor.

The presenter posted photographs on Instagram following his recent fall

Broadcaster Eamonn Holmes has said he thought he was dead after a recent fall in his bathroom left the presenter facing hospital treatment.

The veteran presenter (65) made the comments on GB News on Wednesday morning when speaking about the accident, which he said left him in agony.

Mr Holmes said he had suffered the sorest and most powerful knock to his head that he had ever experienced after slipping on a wet floor.

It was the worst bang to my head and shoulder, he said.

I went down and I said, Im dead I have never had a bang to the head as sore and as powerful as that before. I lay there and I thought, Wheres the blood?

There was nothing, no blood, no split, nothing like that.

The presenter posted photographs on Instagram following his recent fall

The News in 90 Seconds - Wednesday, 7th of May

The Belfast-born broadcaster posted photographs of himself in the back of an ambulance following the incident, alongside a caption thanking those who helped him.

"An unexpected journey this morning bit of a fall on the bathroom floor. Gosh it hurts. Thank you ambulance crew, he said.

"Not how I wanted to be spending the holiday weekend, but lifes not easy these days. Thanks to everybody who is looking after me.

In another post on his Instagram account in March this year, Mr Holmes said he was determined to have a life despite the pain associated with a disc immobility issue in his back.

Eamonn Holmes (65)

The broadcaster has previously undergone spinal surgery and a double hip replacement. He now struggles walking and uses a mobility scooter.

Mr Holmes has recently announced a new venture alongside co-presenter Paul Coyte.

Their new podcast  entitled Things We Like with Eamonn & Paul  will feature interviews with high-profile guests.

Previously it was revealed their first guest will be British actor, David Jason.

Speaking about the first episode, Eamonn said: We couldnt be more thrilled to welcome Sir David Jason as our very first guest.

His legacy in British television is unmatched, and his warmth and humour set the perfect tone for what we hope will be a long and exciting journey.

A story on an Instagram page reportedly set up for the podcast revealed that other stars who will join the pair for a chat include Im A Celebrity contestant Barry McGuigan.

The first episode of the podcast is due to drop on May 8. with Holmes continuing to present on GB News from Monday to Wednesday.
If youre advocating the death of another human being then you have no cause whatsoever, the former punk frontman said.

Sex Pistols frontman Johnny Rotten calls Kneecap the 'enemy' and suggests they should be kneecapped

Godfather of punk John Lydon  formerly known by stage name Johnny Rotten  has hit out at Belfast rap group Kneecap, branding them as his enemy.

The comments from the Sex Pistols frontman come after he was asked about the trios recent controversy that has engulfed the band, as it was revealed last week that footage from a 2023 gig that appeared to show a band member shouting death threats towards Conservative MPs.

It has since emerged the footage is under investigation by counterterrorism police.

The footage showed a member of the trio appearing to shout: The only good Tory is a dead Tory. Kill your local MP.

Speaking on ITVs Good Morning Britain on Wednesday, Lydon condemned the comments and claimed Kneecap are following what they think is the Sex Pistols route.

If youre advocating the death of another human being then you have no cause whatsoever, he said.

"You are my enemy from here on in for the rest of your mediocre existence.

"You shouldnt be talking like that you shouldnt be making enemies of your fellow human beings.

"Other than that, maybe they need a bloody good kneecapping!

Counter-terror officers are also probing footage from a gig in November 2024 where one member of the band appears to shout: Up Hamas, up Hezbollah.

Lydon, who was the lead vocalist of the group in 1977 when they controversially reached number 2 on the UK charts with God Save the Queen , responded to a recent Financial Times comparison between the two music groups.

Lydon added: I think they think theyre following what they think is the Sex Pistols route In a weird way, with the pistols, we were celebrated in money, business, the papers, publications.

They thought they were humiliating us, but now thats become a format, thats what happens

Lydon was dragged into the row after appearing on Good Morning Britain to promote his upcoming spoken word shows.

Due to recent controversies, Kneecap have had numerous summer festivals and show appearances cancelled in Europe and America.

Last week, a string of artists including Christy Moore, Fontaines DC, Paul Weller, Pulp, Massive Attack and Shane MacGowans widow Victoria Mary Clarke all came out publicly to say they are supporting Kneecap.

Speaking to the Sunday World, Brian Warfield of The Wolfe Tones added to the groups support, saying: We are totally behind Kneecap. I believe those young lads are very courageous and we dont want them left out there on their own.

They are only starting their career and we totally and absolutely support them. Its an absolute disgrace that they are being portrayed as public enemy number one at the moment.

Warfield added We went through that ourselves for years, referring to the controversy that Kneecap have recently been embroiled in.

Last week Kneecap issued an apology for any offence caused to the families of Jo Cox and Sir David Amess, both of whom were murdered while serving as MPs.

The band claimed their comments had been deliberately taken out of all context.
But Wickham said the proposal was revealed once the company had the right level of information and analysis to make the announcement. He said it was still just a proposal and no decisions had been made.

An affected worker told the Bay of Plenty Times he and his colleagues felt blindsided by the companys proposal.

The company is undergoing consultation meetings with the workers and union organisers for those that belong to the Maritime Union of NZ, E tu union and the Aviation Marine Engineers Association (AMEA).

Ballance chief executive Kelvin Wickham publicly announced on April 17 the companys proposal to halt manufacturing fertiliser products at its Hewletts Rd site at Mount Maunganui could result in the loss of 62 roles.

Ballance Agri-Nutrients management is set to meet workers union officials and staff next week as consultation continues on the companys proposal to convert its manufacturing plant into a distribution and storage centre.

The worker, who NZME agreed not to name, said he and his colleagues were shocked and dismayed to be told the company had been working on this proposal for more than a year.

We had no clue this was coming and I feel that [the company] had an obligation to forewarn us that they intended to substantially restructure the companys operations.

At the coalface we all feel were one big family, and this is not how you treat your loyal staff.

The worker said some staff had only worked for Ballance for a few months and others had recently resumed working for the company after extended breaks.

Some of those guys had explored other training or employment opportunities and resumed working for Ballance believing there was job security in doing so.

He said some of those who could be worse off than him if the proposal went ahead were employees on sponsored work visas. .

In his opinion, the worker said the company should have shown more humanity and a little bit more empathy to the staff in the way it delivered this shocking news.

A lot of the staff, including me, are very emotional, upset, stressed and there is a lot anxiety about our futures.

A lot of the guys have embedded their roots in this community, and our core skills are pretty unique to this business... Its really hard turning up to work each day having this hanging over our heads.

Maritime Union of NZ response

Maritime Union of NZ local organiser Graham McKean. Photo / John Borren

Graham McKean, local organiser for Maritime Union of NZ (MUNZ) said he met with Ballance senior officials and the 21 members who worked at Hewletts Rd plant site on April 23.

He confirmed 14 MUNZ members would be affected by the proposal, including members who worked in the acid plant generating power at the site.

Affected union members were still reeling from the news, he said.

A lot of those affected by the proposal had worked for Ballance for more than 20 years, some for 30-plus years, and some of whom were on the cusp of retirement age and knew no other type of work.

Their roles are unique to this business, and their skills will not readily be transferable to other employment.

For affected staff there was a lot of emotion, and a lot of hurt being faced with the potential lack of future pathways into alternative employment.

He said the proposal was not unexpected as in his view Ballance had been struggling financially in terms of its manufacturing operations the past few years, and had explored various other opportunities to try to grow the business, including in Australia.

However, despite regular meetings with the union, the proposed halting of manufacturing operations in Tauranga had not been mooted by the company until the announcement.

McKean said MUNZ would be working hard to try to ensure as many jobs as possible were retained.

He said the next consultation meeting was tentatively set down for May 13 and the outcome of the proposal was expected to be announced next month.

E tu Union and AMEA representatives declined to comment on the proposal.

Ballance Agri-Nutrients chief executive Kelvin Wickham. Photo / Supplied

Chief executives response

Wickham told the Bay of Plenty Times the proposal was part of a wide transformation programme the organisation had been working on over the past 12 months.

This specific proposal was shared with our people at the point where we had the right level of information and analysis to move forward with a recommendation.

We recognise that the proposed change to our manufacturing is significant for the co-operative and our people, and we remain committed to supporting them through this process.

The consultation process was expected to be completed by the end of May, and no decisions had yet been made, he said.

After this, well take some time to review the feedback before a final decision is made, likely in June. Until that time, we continue to operate our manufacturing facilities as we normally would.

Should the proposal go ahead, well work alongside all impacted people to offer any suitable redeployment opportunities at Ballance, as well as career transition support.
First time mother Jessie Loft will be strapping her 9-month-old daughter to her back and taking on the 15km McLaren Falls Trail near Tauranga in aid of a good cause.

On May 10, Loft will be participating in the Aramex Kiwi Walk & Run on the McLaren Falls Trail, part of a series of events that raise funds for and awareness of Camp Quality, a charity that hosts camps for kids with cancer.

Loft will be carrying baby Indie on her back on the 15km trail, alongside a close longtime friend and aunty for support.

This will be followed by a nice Mothers Day picnic and a well needed massage for recovery.

Regarding her favourite part of becoming a mum, she said seeing her personality grow from being a newborn to now has been amazing.

Im obviously going to sound cheesy saying that I love every part, but it really is just the best time.

When asked why she decided to do the trail, Loft said she loved the outdoors.

Getting outdoors has so many amazing benefits, and the Aramex Kiwi Walk & Run trails are a good way to see parts of New Zealand you wouldnt normally do.

Proceeds go towards Camp Quality, a charity for children with cancer, so its a really good cause to be part of.

Loft said she decided to walk to trail rather than run it, after pulling a muscle during training.

Ive been trying to walk most days with my daughter in the front pack or in the pram for some good weight-training.

She hoped the trail will help people the winter hibernation phenomenon that happens to most of us during these colder months and help motivate them to continue being active.

As a first-time mum, Loft has the following advice for other mothers looking at doing something similar.

Do what you can, it is a juggling act, if you cant get outside for a walk, dont beat yourself up  however, I am a big believer of happy mum happy baby, so remember to prioritise yourself too.

Personally, the front pack is my saviour, and my daughter would just come with me for 99% of my walks.

People wanting to sign up and help raise money for Camp Quality can do so at McLaren Falls Trail  Tauranga - Kiwi Walk & Run.

About the series

The Aramex Kiwi Walk & Run Series is a nationwide trail-running and walking event on Aotearoas best trails. The series raises funds for its charity partner  Camp Quality  a camp that provides life-changing experiences for children aged 5 to 16 who are living with cancer. It offers a supportive, stress-free environment where fun and friendship are combined with meaningful challenges, allowing kids to take a break from their treatment and just enjoy being children.
New Zealands economy risks a $9.4 billion hit as the invasive seaweed caulerpa gains an increasing stronghold - with reports of it now spreading to the Bay of Islands tourist town of Russell.

Thats the stark warning after new NZIER analysis showed caulerpa's spread will impact tourism and recreation, commercial fishing, aquaculture and ecosystems if more is not done to stop the spread.

The analysis is part of a New Zealand-first iwi, community and council consortium December business case to the Government pushing for a co-ordinated, scaled up approach.

The heavyweight consortium wants up to $215 million  $43 million annually - for the first five years of a 30-year fight against caulerpa, which would be funded through taxpayer contributions, local rates and vessel levies.

But Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard has challenged the $9.4 billion economic impact figure.

The impacts of exotic caulerpa in New Zealand are still not fully understood and long-term studies are underway to understand this better.

"Given that we are still studying how caulerpa behaves and affects local marine ecology it would be extremely difficult to identify a cost with any certainty, Hoggard said.

Hoggard would not comment on how much money the Government would be putting towards caulerpa in the May 22 Budget.

The Government always faces difficult choices about what to fund and I cannot discuss Budget ahead of its release later this month, Hoggard said.

Exotic caulerpa has been described by independent scientific experts as the countrys most serious marine biosecurity invasion in a lifetime.

Northland-based Conquer Caulerpa Trust chair Verdon Kelliher said the situation was desperate and the Government wasnt doing enough to remedy the issue.

Conquer Caulerpa chair Verdon Kelliher.

Were talking about major impacts, Kelliher said.

Without immediate, co-ordinated action, our fishing grounds, tourism industry and cultural heritage face unprecedented damage.

The caulerpa threat area stretches 1500 kilometres of coastline from Cape Reinga to East Cape, including the golden triangle economic powerhouse of Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty, as well as Northland.

It has spread to more than 90 locations from the Bay of Islands to the Mercury Islands, off the upper Coromandel Peninsula.

Ex-Tropical Cyclone Tam washed more than 500 tonnes of caulerpa ashore in thick carpets in the Bay of Islands Omakiwi Cove and adjacent Whiorau Bay over Easter.

Local volunteers rushed to remove it due to fears of it creating a growth explosion.

The consortium wants a strengthened Government approach to caulerpa with a stronger marine biosecurity framework to co-ordinate a scaled-up fight.

Its business case, by consultants Martin Jenkins and based on the NZIER economic analysis, was developed over four months by Hauraki Gulf-based Pou Rahui iwi (Ngati Paoa, Ngati Hei, Ngati Tamatera and Nga Tai ki Tamaki) with financial and/or other input also including from marine scientists and Northland Regional Council, Auckland Council, Waikato Regional Council, Thames-Coromandel District Council, Hauraki District Council, DOC plus affected industries.

Hoggard met Pou Rahui iwi and councils behind the business case in March.

He said the meeting had been very useful and asked officials to consider the business case and provide advice to him in due course.

Pou Rahui iwi spokesperson Herearoha Skipper said the cost of the Government not taking appropriate action outweighed the cost of doing so.

Pou Rahui iwi spokesperson Herearoha Skipper.

The arrival of caulerpa represents an unprecedented threat to our marine environment, Skipper said.

We are deeply concerned about the lack of a comprehensive approach to fighting this seaweed species and its potentially devastating impact.

NZIER modelling suggested that without proper intervention, $9.4 billion of the upper North Islands natural capital asset value could be lost over the next 30 years.

That includes an $8.8 billion recreational and tourism loss including recreational fishing  fish biomass has been halved in overseas caulerpa infestations.

Recreational boating would be impacted with significant movement restrictions, the report said.

There would be a $118 million loss for commercial fishing, $24 million for aquaculture and $489.4 million in ecosystem services degradation, NZIER said.

Roles and responsibilities in the caulerpa fight were not clear and regulatory barriers often prevented rapid responses. Traditional frameworks failed to adequately incorporate matauranga Maori and invasive species funding had been reactive rather than proactive, the report said.

New Zealands first mainland exotic caulerpa infestation was identified in Omakiwi Cove in the eastern Bay of Islands in May 2023.

More than 1000ha - the equivalent of 1429 rugby fields - have been closed to boat anchoring since June 2023 to help stop its spread.

Invasive exotic caulerpa seaweed now covers the equivalent of 2,425 rugby fields in more than 90 sites along the upper North Island's coastline.

Sightings of caulerpa have now been reported outside this anchoring ban area including Russells Kororareka Bay, about 10 kilometres by boat from Omakiwi Cove.

Its also been reported at Long Beach (Oneroa) and Tapeka Point.

And its highly likely that additional beaches are affected but remain unreported, Kelliher said.

Hoggard said the caulerpa that had been shown globally to create dense monocultures were different species from those causing issues in New Zealand  where there was no clear evidence the marine pest was overgrowing seagrass.

Biosecurity New Zealand, mana whenua, regional councils, affected communities and other agencies had invested a huge amount of effort and money to tackle the situation, he said.

The Government had put more than $20 million towards efforts to understand the pest, contain its spread and develop new technologies to remove it, Hoggard said.

World-leading technology was also helping to remove different types of caulerpa infestations including the development of a large-scale suction dredge in the Bay of Islands.

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Firefighters and members of the United Fire Brigades Association (UFBA) will gather outside Parliament to hand over a petition calling for changes to the ACC legislation for volunteer firefighters.

The Fighting for Fairness petition, with its 36,000 plus signatures, will be handed to opposition ACC spokesperson Camilla Belich who will present it to the House on Thursday afternoon.

The 36,000 New Zealanders who signed the petition want volunteer firefighters to receive the same ACC coverage as their paid counterparts. Local firefighters support the petition. Read here to see what they had to say.

Queenstown Volunteer Fire Brigade secretary Katherine Lamont launched the Fighting for Fairness petition in March this year after watching a colleague struggle with post-traumatic stress (PTSD) disorder.

They attended a really distressing callout and after that the PTSD set in. They were unable to work and had no financial support. I witnessed the impact this had on their life, and I had to do something, Lamont says.

Volunteers are not covered for mental trauma or gradual workplace illness through ACC because they are not paid. Thats not just unfair, its a failure to recognise what our volunteer firefighters endure.



Queenstown Volunteer Fire Brigade secretary and petition organiser Katherine Lamont. Photo / Supplied

Lamont said she could no longer stand back and watch other volunteer firefighters suffer as a result of their community involvement

Every day, volunteer firefighters stand together with their paid colleagues, facing the same trauma, and the same risks. But when theyre injured or suffer mentally because of that service, theyre treated differently.

Changing the legislation would acknowledge the incredible contribution of this special group of people. Volunteer firefighters give so much of themselves to this role. This change would give them the support they deserve. When they need help, help needs to be available, Lamont said.

Firsthand impact

Kelly Bennetto has seen firsthand the impact having no ACC support can have on a loved one who is a volunteer firefighter serving their community.

Her dad, Ian Bennetto, was a Thames Volunteer Fire Brigade volunteer when a call out to a car accident resulted in him contracting Hepatitis C after handling a patient in 1991, a time when there was no cure for the disease.

What followed was years of failed experimental treatments and drug trials. He was forced to take time off work from his drain laying business and suffered financially as a consequence, Kelly Bennetto said.

Ian Bennetto turned to ACC and the Fire Service for support and while ACC accepted the accident happened, he was told he wasnt entitled to support because he was not paid by the fire service.

Pironga Volunteer Brigade firefighter Jodi Reymer, who is a full-time farmer in Te Awamutu, said the work volunteer firefighters do can impact their whole lives and jobs, something that deserves more recognition.

Were doing the same jobs and we need the same support, she said.

UFBA board chair Peter Dunne said volunteer firefighters were driven by a selfless commitment to their communities and their role often went unseen and underappreciated.



UFBA Chair Hon. Peter Dunne. Photo / Supplied

The UFBA fully supports Katherines petition as it aligns with the UFBAs years of advocating for this important change for volunteer firefighters. We are delighted to hand this over to Camilla Belich, to present this to Parliament. Dunne said.

Volunteers make up 86 per cent of the Fire and Emergency frontline workforce and are the first responders to most emergencies across 93 per cent of the countrys land mass.

They are our farmers, teachers, retailers and tradespeople who answer the call to duty, leaving their daily lives behind to face emergencies head-on, sometimes at great costs to themselves, their families and their employers, he said.

Its clear volunteer firefighters deserve the same protection as their paid counterparts. The 36,000 Kiwis who signed Katherines petition have sent our politicians a clear message that shouldnt be ignored.

ACC policies

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employments accident compensation policy manager Bridget Duley said the no-fault scheme provides broad-based cover to everyone in New Zealand who is injured in an accident.

Under ACC, volunteer firefighters are eligible for this type of cover, which includes any physical injuries they suffer on the job such as scrapes, sprains, broken bones or head injuries.

Where a physical injury causes a mental injury, the mental injury is eligible for cover if the physical injury is already covered under ACC.

For example, if a volunteer firefighter received cover following an accident where they fell and suffered a spinal injury, they may also be eligible for mental injury cover if it could be proven that they subsequently developed depression as a result of their physical injury.

ACC also provides additional types of cover that are specific to paid employment, including cover for work-related mental injuries and occupational diseases.

These types of cover are available only when the injury is caused by paid work. Work-related claims are funded by employers based on their payroll. As volunteers are not reflected as employees in workplace payroll systems, funding additional cover in a fair way may require changes to how ACC levies are collected.

Duley said past expansions to the Accident Compensation Scheme to cover different mental injuries have been carefully considered to ensure they remain accident-related and balance the interests of ACC levy payers and considerations around financial sustainability.

Future reforms

Any future reforms would need to consider the benefits of ACC support to people suffering from mental harm alongside costs to levy payers and the Government, and the impacts on the mental health workforce.

It is important to note that those in volunteer roles can still access mental and other health services via the health system.

As the petition is currently ongoing, I wont be able to comment specifically but I will be following the process.

Government response

Scott Simpson, the Minister for ACC, said he acknowledges the volunteers in emergency services who make an incredibly important and selfless contribution to communities around New Zealand.



Minister for ACC Scott Simpson.

I acknowledge the efforts of those who are raising awareness of this issue that is close to their hearts. There is a process for petitions made to Parliament, and I will be watching that as it takes place.
Jesus Mejias Cadiz Wednesday, 7 May 2025, 19:28 Compartir

The railway line connecting Madrid with Andalucia suffered another hellish incident last weekend. Still fresh in the memory of the public were the images of some 35,000 passengers stranded in the middle of nowhere on the day of the blackout that affected the whole of Spain and their having to be rescued in the early hours of the morning from over 100 trains. Then, just last Sunday, thousands of passengers again suffered major delays to their train services - and we're talking high-speed trains here.

On behalf of the Spanish government, transport minister Oscar Puente spoke of 'sabotage' on the railway line as there were coordinated thefts of copper cabling in at least four locations in Toledo province, specifically in the municipalities of Los Yebenes and Manzaneque. These thefts affected the signalling system of the Madrid-Seville high-speed line, with significant delays in the service both on Sunday and Monday.

These two incidents in just one week have highlighted the fragility of Spain's railway network, a key factor in mobility for the country. Moreover, it is an uneven mobility across regions. The province of Cadiz persists in its long-standing demand for inclusion in the high-speed rail network, as the lack of a direct connection to Madrid via the AVE high-speed train service perpetuates and increases the province's isolation by rail.

Currently, only 13 provincial capitals in Spain still do not have a high-speed rail connection, but Renfe has plans to introduce the service in Bilbao, Pamplona, Almeria, Huelva, Burgos, Salamanca, San Sebastian, Vitoria and Soria. That leaves only Logrono, Santander, Jaen and Cadiz off the map for Spain's high-speed rail network.

No AVE until 2050

Cadiz province has aspired to have the AVE service come to the provincial capital ever since 1992, which is when the Madrid-Seville line was launched to coincide with the huge Expo trade fair in the regional capital of Andalucia. Although up to 671,000 passengers had taken the Alvia train between Cadiz and Madrid by 2024, to date central government has no plan in place to make this service a reality for Cadiz, which has a population of 800,000 inhabitants if the Bay of Cadiz and Jerez are included. Therefore, we will have to wait at least until 2050.

On a visit to the capital of Cadiz, Oscar Puente himself rejected the arrival of the AVE to the province because, "it is going to cost us a lot of money" and it would be an "ill-thought-out" investment.

The government in Madrid justifies the absence of the AVE for Cadiz on economic grounds, since the cost of the whole operation would be around 3.5 billion euros. Apart from cost, there are also technical difficulties, with sharp curves on the rail tracks that the high-speed train would be on through the Bay of Cadiz, especially in the stretch between Puerto Real and Cadiz city, which would limit the train's speed. The AVE trains need railway lines on which they can reach their optimum speeds of over 200 kilometres per hour, but in Cadiz, in some stretches, their speed would have to be reduced to 50 kilometres per hour.

Unlike other AVE lines in Spain, the section between Cadiz and Seville shares tracks with other train services (Cercanias, Media Distancia and Larga Distancia). In addition, the small section between San Fernando and Cadiz is also served by the metropolitan tramway of the Bay of Cadiz. Lastly, there is a specific, technical impediment. The conventional line linking the provinces of Seville and Cadiz uses Iberian gauge (1.668 mm), whereas the high-speed lines are designed for international gauge (1,435 mm). This means that AVE trains, designed to run on international gauge tracks, cannot run directly on Iberian gauge tracks without adapting the infrastructure, hence the aforementioned high cost of bringing a high-speed rail service to Cadiz.
Businessman Francisco Trujillo, owner of six chicken rotisseries and one of the promoters of the new business alliance.

Mercedes Navarrete Granada Wednesday, 7 May 2025 | Updated 09/05/2025 19:27h. Compartir

In the last five years, the price of a kilo of chicken meat has risen by more than 40 per cent, which has affected families and businesses alike. Francisco Trujillo, owner of six rotisseries in Granada province, sells more than 1,300 roast chickens every week. What Trujillo realised when he spoke to his colleagues in the sector - more colleagues than competitors - is that they were all struggling with rising costs in a sector with "very narrow" margins. The simultaneous increase in costs of chickens, as well as energy, oil and potatoes, has spelled disaster for businesses.

Trujillo came up with the idea of bringing together his colleagues in Granada and creating a central purchasing centre that concentrates the purchases of all the small chicken rotisseries. When it comes to negotiating with suppliers, buying 1,000 chickens is not the same as buying 100,000. It is a classic example of strength in numbers. Francisco discussed the idea with Lucas Santos who runs the Dona Juana restaurant in Huetor Vega, famous for its roast chickens and he didn't think twice about Francisco's idea.

After months of "intense" meetings with businesses in the sector, and with the solid foundations of a market study, a growth and viability plan, the Central de Compras Asadores de Pollos S. L. has been established; a company driven by ten owners of rotisseries in Granada that is ready to mark a turning point for the sector in Spain. "We have managed to transmit the vision that a union is necessary to centralise the purchase of products and services for our businesses and we are about to reach 60 members in Andalucia", explain the promoters.

From oil to potatoes

Chicken rotisseries are mainly family businesses, employing an average of four workers. "It is the Spanish takeaway par excellence. They are the healthiest takeaway food on the market, but they also offer not only roast chicken, but also a wide variety of meals at affordable prices that help to sustain local economies," say the entrepreneurs.

However, it is a business model which is being threatened by the rising costs of all raw materials. For example, they point out that electricity bills tripled in 2022 and have not returned to the levels of that year, and they also suffer, like any business, from the rise in labour costs, but they also have to bear specific costs that have tightened the markets in their sector.

"Our main product, chicken, has risen by one euro per kilo since 2020. This means that we chicken rotisseries have less bargaining power when buying on our own," say the promoters of the Central de Compras.

12,000 rotisseries In Spain there are twelve thousand rotisseries, according to industry sources in Granada.

1,560 million euros This is the annual turnover figure for Spanish rotisseries, a sector that is widely dispersed among small businesses, according to Central de Compras.

50,000 jobs Rotisseries in Spain directly support 50,000 jobs, according to the same sources.

Potatoes, another essential item for the sector, have also doubled in price in recent years "which can be explained by the situation in Holland, the main manufacturer of cut and processed potatoes in Europe, which has been experiencing problems in terms of supplying our continent".

The price of oil has gone up due to the war in Ukraine and has not stabilised since, and the list goes on and on with packaging, detergents and so on "The increasingly limited human resources, with the need to recruit qualified personnel for the tasks and schedules of our companies are yet another complication for the sector", the promoters point out.

Both Trujillo and Santos are very happy with the creation of their central purchasing centre, which is an "extraordinary milestone" for the sector. "Great synergies can be created, allowing them to obtain a more competitive price in the purchase of the 'core' products and services of their business. We will be able to improve contracts for electricity, gas, diesel, the hiring of staff for peak sales, machinery, legal, health and financial advice, and a host of other advantages that make this union essential for a sector that has tiny margins that are heavily hit by rising prices," they argue.

It is also an advantage for suppliers, they say, as "inefficiencies in the value chain are eliminated, they will have manufacturing forecasts and assured contracts that will benefit them to better adjust their processes".

"We all win"

In addition, they have managed to add to the project as a strategic collaborator the Granada-based company Grill & Chicken SL, specialists in the sector who advise and collaborate with companies in northern Europe and in Spain and supply them with products, as well as having experts in purchasing, finance, logistics, R&D&I and operations.

The company, based in Otura, has professionals with more than 25 years of experience in the sector, international positioning and is a 'star signing' for the new purchasing centre, which is from Granada but has a national vocation.

"The more integrated we are, the more competitive advantages we will have. We invite everyone who has a poultry farm to join the Central to benefit from competitive improvements. It's not about competition, it's about alliances. Our competitors are the fast food take-aways of large multinationals with a concentration of purchases that allow them to drive down sales prices," argues Trujillo.

"We have the opportunity to eliminate inefficiencies in the value chain, creating an alliance that improves the competitiveness and market positioning of the broiler market".

Santos would like to give special thanks to the sixty restaurants that have already joined the initiative. "None of this would be possible without their support," he says. "We have the opportunity to eliminate inefficiencies in the value chain, creating an alliance that improves the competitiveness and market positioning of chicken broilers. If we don't join together, sooner or later the market will leave us out in the cold with large franchises adjusting margins and operations to an optimal level that is unattainable for the small business," he insists.

The Granada-based company has already started a membership recruitment campaign in Andalucia and its ambition is to provide services throughout Spain. "With a market share of more than 30 per cent, Central de Compras de Asadores de Pollos SL hopes to mark a before and after in the sector, always seeking to improve and innovate to meet the needs of the consumer. The opportunity is unique and the expectations are immense," they conclude.
Impressive view of the Sendero de las Cerradas, which is the official name of the trail.

Guillermo Ortega Granada Wednesday, 7 May 2025, 20:08 Compartir

Malaga has the Caminito del Rey, but Granada province is home to the Caminito de la Reina. It is in Castril and is one of the main attractions of the village in the north of the province, which has many other places of interest.

The Sendero de las Cerradas, which is its official name, is also called Caminito de la Reina. It is similar to the gorge in Malaga, although the one in Castril is only one kilometre long, takes around 45 minutes to complete and is free to access.

It runs along the course of the Castril river, where the passing of the centuries and erosion have formed impressive shapes. The path, accessible to everyone, crosses a suspension bridge, a tunnel and also allows you to enjoy beautiful views and the roar of the water under your feet.

There are two ways of doing the walk: a circular route, or an alternative that connects it, walking up to the ruins of an Islamic fortress which presides over this village of some two thousand inhabitants, located in the Huescar area of the province and more than two hours by car from Granada city.

The castle was built in the 13th century and is at the top of the Sagrado Corazon (sacred heart) rock. It looks over the village of Castril, with whitewashed houses, steep streets and all the typical features of small Andalusian villages.

Zoom The Renaissance church of Nuestra Senora de los Angeles is another attraction in Castril. abc

A visit to the Ethnographic Museum is well worth it to learn about the history of a place where Neolithic remains have been found and to see how people lived there in the past, when they would have worked as potters and glass makers.

Nuestra Senora de los Angeles church is a sober but elegant example of how religious buildings were constructed in the Renaissance period. It is also one of the first churches to be built in the province when it passed into Christian hands.

Castril was home at one point to the Portuguese writer Jose Saramago, winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature. His wife, Pilar del Rio, was born in Castril and there is a cultural centre in the village dedicated to the Portuguese writer.

The Sendero de las Cerradas, Caminito de la Reina or even Pequeno caminito del Rey, as it is also called, has been attracting an increasing number of visitors for years, especially at weekends. This is reflected in the growing offer of restaurants offer Seguero lamb, lomo de orza or the curious ajo al amirez, which is prepared with almonds, bread and garlic spread on croutons..

The air is clear and at night, starry skies that can be enjoyed in all their splendour thanks to the low light pollution in the area.

There is no shortage of alternatives when it comes to walking. Castril is the gateway to the splendid Sierra de Castril natural park. Within the municipality is also the Portillo reservoir where it is possible to fish and canoe in a peaceful family atmosphere. And by car - better if it is an off-road vehicle - you can take a route that leads to the Cazorla, Segura and Las Villas national park.
SUR in English Malaga Wednesday, 7 May 2025 | Updated 12/05/2025 17:31h. Compartir

Savills is an international real estate consultancy with over 160 years of history, a presence in more than 70 countries and a residential network of more than 500 offices in key locations such as London, the French Riviera and Dubai. Two of these offices are in Malaga, where the company has been active for over 30 years. In recent years, it has focused particularly on the prime or high-end residential sales market, ranging from new developments to ultra-luxury villas, having already established itself as a leader in other real estate sectors such as offices, retail, logistics and hotels.

The Savills team specialising in the residential markets of Malaga and Marbella offers a comprehensive service covering everything from property valuation and appraisal to land and development advice, and the sale of both new and resale properties. This is made possible through a well-connected sales network spanning local, national and international channels.

Strategic presence

The Costa del Sol is one of the key strategic areas in Spain for the property sector. For this reason, Savills has established a strong presence in the region, with its own offices in Malaga and Marbella. Our local team is made up of expert consultants who live in and understand the area. We offer a fully tailored service that reflects the unique characteristics of the region, backed by the tools, reach and support of a global company, they say at Savills.

Zoom La Zagaleta, Benahavis.

We enhance our services with our ability to generate visibility through a strong network of contacts, media presence and access to exclusive databases, they add.

Their work ranges from renovated homes in Malagas historic centre and developments along the Costa del Sol to branded residences and ultra-luxury villas in Marbella, as well as new-build projects designed with the comfort and wellbeing of different types of buyers in mind.

Growth in Marbella

Since opening its own office in Marbella, Savills has seen significant growth in the area, strengthening its position as one of the key players in the market.

Zoom Los Monteros, Marbella.

A strong focus on local leadership and in-depth market knowledge has been crucial. Thanks to a clear strategic direction and the expansion of its sales team, the Marbella office has significantly increased its property portfolio, listing both new-build developments and resale homes in Marbella and nearby towns such as Estepona and Benahavis. This expansion has led not only to a higher volume of properties but also to a more diverse offering, catering to a wide range of both national and international clients.

The team in Marbella is also continuing to grow. For the remainder of the year, the plan is to keep adding specialised professionals, further strengthening the local structure to deliver a more personalised, efficient and professional service.

New phase in Malaga City

At the same time, Savills has entered a new phase in Malaga city. In recent months, it has launched resale property operations with the addition of a dedicated team in the Malaga office, marking a key milestone in the company's expansion strategy in Andalucia.

Zoom La Cerquilla, Nueva Andalucia (Marbella).

The firm now has a broad portfolio of resale properties in Malaga city, with a wide range of prices to suit both buyers looking for a primary residence and investors drawn by the citys vibrant property market.

Tailored services

Savills offers a range of specialist services designed to meet every need in the property market. These include residential sales, full-service support for owners looking to sell, national and international coverage and access to real-time market data and analysis through its local, national and international Research teams.

Zoom La Zagaleta, Benahavis.

In this way, Savills meets the needs of both local residents looking to sell or reposition their property and national and international buyers seeking professional guidance to find a home in Malaga, Marbella or elsewhere on the Costa del Sol. It also supports owners of portfolios or unique properties who need a strategic partner with strong analytical capabilities, global visibility and expert marketing.
Javier Martinez Valencia Wednesday, 7 May 2025, 15:02 Compartir

National Police officers have arrested three people in Malaga - two men and a woman - on suspicion that they were involved in the murder of a young man, 24, in Valencia's Nazaret neighbourhood. The arrests took place around 1pm on Monday, a day before the victim's funeral, following a swift investigation by the National Police force's homicide unit.

Both the victim, Antonio Flores Castro, and his brother Israel, 17, were stabbed outside the Iglesia Evangelista de Nazaret after a dispute that had started the previous day. The argument had been stirred when the victims' mother allegedly made comments about the way the church pianist had played. Her criticism caused tension, which was dissolved once the pastor intervened.

However, when the family returned to the church the next day, the sense of discomfort was still lingering - something that Antonio felt as well, as he told his father, Luis: "Dad, let's go, they are giving me bad looks."

While Luis was saying goodbye to the pastor, his two sons went out of the church, where they were surrounded by several individuals (allegedly including the pianist and relatives of his) and stabbed. Antonio died in a private car that was transferring him to hospital, while Israel remains admitted after being seriously injured.

One of the arrested men is believed to be the actual murderer and the police are investigating the degree of involvement of the other two detainees. The three suspects are 43, 40 and 22 years of age. The woman was released after questioning while the two men will be brought before the courts in Valencia. One of them has previously had problems in another evangelical church, because he tried to enter the temple with a cane with a sharpened tip. The incident happened a few months ago in the hamlet of La Torre.

Antonio Flores Castro, 24, died while being transported in a private car to a hospital, while his brother was seriously injured

About 200 people bid farewell to Antonio on Tuesday, in an evangelist service held at the municipal funeral parlour in Valencia. The burial took place around 11.30am.

The National Police mounted an operation around the funeral parlour and the cemetery to prevent possible incidents such as those that took place on Friday night at Hospital La Fe, where Israel was admitted.

The boys' father and the church pastor were the voice of peace among the most exalted relatives. "Luis is a man of peace and is with God and his family. He wants justice, not revenge. Although he is very saddened by the death of his son, he does not want more blood to be shed," said the pastor shortly after leaving the wake.

Luis has asked the family not to avenge his son's death. According to Las Provincias newspaper, several relatives spoke to him and offered to look for the perpetrators of the crime in order to take justice into their own hands. He convinced them not to use violence, without knowing that the police had already made the first arrests in Malaga.

Several evangelist pastors, including Antonio Vargas, are also mediating so that no more blood is spilled. "We want them to apply God's justice, divine justice, because we are people of peace and the family does not want revenge," Vargas said after offering his condolences to the parents.

'Dad, let's go, they're giving me bad looks,' were the last words Luis heard from his son

The crime has caused great shock and indignation in Nazaret, which is home to a large number of Roma families who admire and respect the descendants of 'El Chele' - a patriarch who held authority for many years because of his age and wisdom. Antonio - the victim - was the great-grandson of the man known as 'the king of the gypsies' in the seaside neighbourhoods in Valencia.
Edurne Martinez Madrid Wednesday, 7 May 2025, 11:27 Compartir

Just one week after a major blackout left practically the whole of Spain without electricity, government ministers has approved a new 1.1-billion-euro plan aimed at strengthening cybersecurity and cyberdefence measures.

The budget injection was announced on Tuesday by minister for digital transformation Oscar Lopez. Central government does not rule out the possibility that the blackout was due to some kind of external attack on Spanish electricity grids and this billion-euro plan is part of the investment in defence to reach 2% of GDP this year.

According to the government, there were 100,000 cyber-attacks in Spain in 2024, with one considered "very serious" every three days. For that reason, Lopez's department wants to give a boost to the 5G security operations centre with this update of the national cybersecurity plan approved in 2022. It also aims to increase the cyber-resilience of the digital administration's transversal services and incorporate advanced artificial intelligence (AI) techniques in the systems for detecting cyber-attacks and improving the coordination of the response of the public and private cybersecurity operations centres.

Zoom Oscar Lopez, Minister of Digital Transformation. EFE

The minister also added that the system for generating early warnings in cyber defence will be strengthened by promoting partnerships with universities for research in cybersecurity. "Spain is an example to follow in terms of cybersecurity according to the international telecommunications union, surpassing the average of EU countries. We are the second country in the world with the highest number of cybersecurity centres, behind only the US," said Lopez.

Of the total budget, 60.4% will be managed by the Ministry of Defence through the National Intelligence Centre (CNI-CCN). Lopez's ministry will handle 22%, while the Ministry of the Interior is responsible for 16.3%. The Department of National Security (DSN), under the Ministry of the Presidency, will invest the remaining 1.2%.
Yan Liu, Ph.D., is global director of research and development at Indium Corp., a maker of advanced materials for the electronics industry headquartered in Clinton, New York. Liu was named MACNY's Innovator of the Year for 2025. (Photo courtesy of Indium Corp.) Photo courtesy of Indium Corp.

Yan Liu, Ph.D., will receive MACNYs Innovator of the Year award later this month for her groundbreaking work at Indium Corp., a global maker of advanced materials for the electronics manufacturing industry.

Her leadership has led to the development of cutting-edge fluxes, solder pastes and advanced materials, setting new industry benchmarks, the Manufacturers Association of Central New York said in a news release announcing the award.
The Syracuse.com | The Post-Standard police blotter of arrests from police agencies around Central New York was updated today.

The arrests added this week occurred between April 2 and May 4. Those charged were 18 to 84 years old.

One person was arrested for aggravated drunk driving. Two injured in roll-over crash in Cicero, woman charged with DWI
Home builder Jim Williams is planning to build two spec homes on this lot in Strathmore aimed at middle-range home buyers. He hopes to sell them for at least $325,000 and $240,000. Dennis Nett | dnett@syracuse.com dennis nett | dnett@syracuse.com

Syracuse, N.Y.  The vacant lot on Hubbell Avenue sits amid 100-year-old duplexes. It has been undisturbed since 2008, when a run-down house on the property was demolished.

Thats a familiar story in Syracuse. There are hundreds of similar lots, mostly in poor neighborhoods. The number grows each year as aging, neglected homes are torn down.

And no one builds new homes on the vacant lots unless they can wangle $300,000 or so in hard-to-get government subsidies. Without that, developers cant sell a Syracuse house for anywhere near what it costs to build one.

Or can they?

Home values are rising in Syracuse, even in some of the citys poorest neighborhoods. Housing advocates are starting to hope that someday soon private developers will finally start building market-rate houses in the vacant lots of Syracuse.

Hubbell Avenue will be a test.

Building contractor Jim Williams plans to put up two single-family homes this summer on the Hubbell site, at the outer edge of the Strathmore neighborhood, in a project that will test how much subsidy it takes to build in a middle-income Syracuse neighborhood.

The block where Williams plans to build is dominated by two-family rentals. Its a transitional area -- not affluent but not economically distressed like the neighborhoods where most of the vacant lots are.

If Williams can succeed in building and selling two new homes  hes aiming at sales prices of $240,000 and $325,000  he might help establish whether Syracuse property values are rising enough to spark private-sector housing development in middle-income areas.

The Greater Syracuse Land Bank, which controls more than 350 buildable lots in the city, is working with Williams in hopes that Syracuse will someday see market-rate homebuilding similar to what occurs in the suburbs, said Katelyn Wright, executive director.

Unfortunately, right now, were in a spot where were relying on government subsidy to get homes built, Wright told county legislators last month. Now, as property values have been going up the past five years, were seeing that that gap we have to fill is shrinking. Our goal is to get to a point where it shrinks to zero and we can actually get private developers to build homes on all of our lots.

This rendering shows a two-story house that developer Jim Williams plans to build in Syracuse. A similar house, with or without the second-story shed dormers, would be built next door. Jim Williams

Average home prices in Syracuse have risen about 68% in five years, comparing year-to-date sales in 2025 to the same period in 2020. The average price so far this year is $177,600, according to the Central New York Information Service, an arm of the Realtors association.

Countywide, the average home price this year is $301,500, about 61% above 2020.

Williams struck a unique deal with the Greater Syracuse Land Bank, which agreed to backstop him with a relatively small subsidy.

The vacant lot has been subdivided into two lots measuring roughly 40 feet by 130 feet. Williams plans to build a two-story house on one lot that will cost $350,000 and should sell for about $325,000. A second single-story house will cost $315,000 to build and should sell for about $240,000.

If the numbers hold, Williams will need a subsidy of $100,000 for the two houses. The Land Bank board agreed to provide Williams with a small cushion, guaranteeing him up to $150,000 if he needs it. Williams, who factored a 15% profit into his estimates, has agreed to open his books so Land Bank officials can verify his costs.

Williams, 58, is on a quest.

He designed the houses himself. He plans to finance construction with a personal line of credit because it doesnt look like hell get a construction loan. Hes doing this on top of his full-time job renovating student housing.

Williams, who lives in a middle-class neighborhood in Eastwood, said he wants to spur a revival of privately financed home building in Syracuse. He wants banks and builders to resume developing houses that middle-income people can afford.

If they do, more people would live in the city, he said. And more people would have a better opinion of the city.

He does not lack for confidence.

I know this will work, he said.

The benefits of homeownership

With rare exceptions -- such as a planned housing development at the former Lafayette Hills country club, at the citys far edge -- new home construction in Syracuse has been limited to nonprofit agencies and other developers who can obtain sizeable state subsidies.

Of the 48 vacant lots the land bank has sold since 2016 for new single-family homes, all but two were sold to nonprofit or government agencies that build subsidized housing for income-eligible buyers. (The other two lots were sold to buyers who built homes for themselves, not for resale.)

Typically, the subsidies required to build in the city are at least $200,000 to $300,000 per house in low-income neighborhoods, said developer Ryan Benz, whose company plans to build nine or 10 subsidized single-family homes on the South Side. Without the extra, builders would lose money, he said.

Between acquisition, infrastructure, and then the cost of construction relative to the cost that you can get for selling these things, the two numbers arent even close, Benz said.

Home builder Jim Williams is planning to build two spec homes on this lot on Hubble Avenue in Syracuse aimed at middle-range home buyers. He hopes to sell them for at least $325,000 and $240,000. Dennis Nett | dnett@syracuse.com dennis nett | dnett@syracuse.com

The exception has been in rare upscale enclaves like Xavier Woods, in the Outer Comstock area, where about 30 new single-family homes have been built over the past decade. Recent sales prices have been around $500,000.

Homeownership brings widespread benefits to the community, Benz and other housing advocates say. But because home building in Syracuse is limited by the amount of state funding available, those benefits accrue slowly.

Homeownership is how you stabilize neighborhoods, Benz said. Thats how you bring kids back. Thats how you make neighborhoods safer by knowing who your neighbors are. Thats how you have better long-term socioeconomic returns for children. They perform better in schools, and theyre more successful in life. It all, in my opinion, goes back to homeownership.

My neighbors are so nice

In 2023, Ivonne Fernandez bought her first house on Otisco Street, a few blocks from the public housing project where she raised her kids. Fernandez paid $171,000 for the home, according to county property records.

Home HeadQuarters, a nonprofit housing agency, spent about $450,000 on construction, said Kerry Quaglia, CEO. The difference was made up with a variety of subsidies that support homes for low-income or moderate-income buyers.

By clustering new homes together, Home HeadQuarters is driving up property values. Two years after Fernandez bought her house, Home HeadQuarters is selling similar houses nearby for $225,000.

Thats still well below the cost of construction. But a $50,000 increase in home values in one of the poorest Census tracts in America  with a 40% poverty rate  is no small achievement. By building in clusters, Home HeadQuarters aims to create a critical mass that elevates values throughout the neighborhood, Quaglia said.

That is the goal, he said. I mean, on the one hand you are raising the cost of housing. But its for the greater good, because if these appraised values are so low, nobody has an incentive to invest in the neighborhood. And thats never a good thing.

Home HeadQuarters has built 110 houses in Syracuse since 2006, an average of about half a dozen a year. The group has 40 houses in development this year, thanks to increased state funding for owner-occupied homes.

Many of the houses that Home HeadQuarters is building this year will appraise and sell for $30,000 to $50,000 more than they would have two years ago, Quaglia said.

Over the long term, the new houses are driving steady increases in property values.

Ivonne Fernandez bought her home on Syracuse's Near West Side in 2023. Home values in her neighborhood are rising. 2023 file photo.

Across the street from Fernandez, for example, two homes built by Home HeadQuarters were purchased in 2011 for $80,000 each. One was resold in 2022 for $172,500. The other sold for $180,000 in 2023.

This is a good neighborhood, even though its in the middle of the West Side, said Fernandez, who works as a teachers aide in a city school. All of my neighbors are so nice.

Quaglia said he hopes to see home values increase enough to revive private home building in the city. But that goal is still a way off, he said.

For right now, thats going to be very niche, very case-by-case, he said. But eventually, if we can all be successful and cluster our efforts and whatnot, hopefully that becomes something that is doable and makes financial and economic sense.

Somebodys gotta do something

Jim Williams has worked about 30 years in the construction business. He spent five years as construction project manager for Home HeadQuarters. Before that, he worked 22 years as a project manager for Time Cap Development.

Among other projects for Time Cap, Williams helped restore the Five Sisters, a row of Victorian landmarks built in the 1890s on Park Avenue. Time Cap completed gut rehabs on the troubled properties and sold them to new owners in 2010, after previous investors failed to complete the renovations.

At the time, critics doubted that Time Cap would find buyers for the Five Sisters, Williams said. But the project helped revive a neighborhood and is now regarded as a model of success.

Williams said he undertook the Hubbell Avenue effort because most new homes are priced out of the reach of young and middle-income buyers.

Somebodys gotta do something, he said.

Williams currently works for Foundation General Contracting & Design, a company that owns student rental housing in Syracuse and other cities.

His project on Hubbell Avenue is a side effort, one that he is strongly committed to, he said. He plans to have the houses ready for sale by next fall. He is currently working to get permits from the city and lining up contractors to do the work, he said.

My time is too valuable to poke around. I just want to get the things up. Ive got a plan. I want excellent dudes to do the work, he said.

For decades, home builders have steered clear of Syracuse for the most part, preferring to work in the suburbs. Thats because city home prices made it impossible to make money, said Mary Gohl-Thompson, CEO of the Home Builders and Remodelers of Central New York.

She said it would be a boon to the city if market-rate housing became viable again.

I hope this is the first couple of steps in that direction, that it can start to happen that way. That would be fantastic, she said.

Staff writer Tim Knauss can be reached at: email | Twitter | 315-470-3023.
Albany, N.Y.  The names of two Central New York police officers killed in an April 2024 ambush in Salina have been added to a state memorial honoring fallen officers.

Syracuse police officer Michael Jensen and Onondaga County Sheriffs Lt. Michael Hoosock were among the 68 officers whose names were added to the New York State Police Officers Memorial at the Empire State Plaza in Albany.

Oswego County Sheriffs Deputy Cailee Campbell, who was killed in September in a car crash, was also added to the memorial.

More than 500 family members, friends and fellow officers attended an unveiling ceremony Tuesday.

Gov. Kathy Hochul directed landmarks across New York state to be illuminated blue Tuesday evening to honor officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

Day after day, our law enforcement officers and their families make the ultimate sacrifice in service of their communities, she said. I am deeply grateful to the brave individuals who dedicate their lives to keeping the public safe.

Campbell, 33, died after a car T-boned her patrol vehicle at about 6:40 a.m. on Sept. 25, 2024, in the town of Volney. She had been responding to a reported car crash.

Hoosock and Jensen were shot and killed during an ambush just before 9 p.m. on April 14, 2024, on Darien Drive in Salina. They had responded to a home on that street to follow up on a vehicle that was speeding earlier that day through Syracuses Tipp Hill neighborhood.

A gunman armed with an AR-15 rifle first shot Hoosock, who was behind the home at 4945 Darien Drive.

Murphy then went to the front of the house, where several officers had taken cover. There, he shot Jensen. The gunman was killed by Jensen and another officer.

Hoosock, 37, was a decorated 16-year veteran of the Onondaga County Sheriffs Office and a volunteer firefighter who served as a battalion chief at the Moyers Corners Fire Department. He was known as a jokester and a dedicated family man to his wife and three children.

Jensen, 29, had been on the force for about two years. He was known for his outgoing personality and work ethic.

In addition to their inclusion on the state memorial, Jensen and Hoosock have also been honored with their names inscribed on two memorials in downtown Syracuse and a brick at the State Fair.

Jensen and Hoosock will be honored again later this month during National Police Week in Washington.

Their names will be added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. Several other officers who responded alongside them in Salina will be honored at an event hosted by the National Association of Police Organizations.

Staff writer Jon Moss covers breaking news, crime and public safety. He can be reached at jmoss@syracuse.com or @mossjon7.
Subscribe to get the Good Morning, CNY newsletter delivered to your email inbox weekday mornings.

Weather

High: 60. Low: 48. Cloudy, cooler, a few showers; see the 5-day forecast.

Photo of the day

The Syracuse Police Department honors officers who died during the Fallen Heroes Ceremony that takes place every May. Monday, May 5, 2025. Darian Stevenson

Syracuse honors officers killed in the line of duty: More than 100 people gathered Monday morning for a ceremony to honor Syracuse police officers killed in the line of duty. The annual Fallen Heroes Ceremony, held on the lawn of Forman Park on East Genesee Street, paid tribute to 12 officers who died on the job.

The latest

Can anyone build a modestly priced home in Syracuse without big subsidies? One guy is trying: Home values are rising in Syracuse, even in some of the citys poorest neighborhoods. Housing advocates are starting to hope that someday soon private developers will finally start building market-rate houses in the vacant lots of Syracuse. Heres one testing it out.

Whats trending

State budget deal includes $450 million to build new Upstate ER in Syracuse:

A final state budget deal between Gov. Kathy Hochul and state lawmakers will include $450 million for a new emergency department and annex at Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse. If approved by the legislature, the money would fully fund the replacement of an outdated and overcrowded emergency room.

House GOP moves to cancel funding to revitalize poor neighborhood in Syracuse: House Republicans have taken the first step to cancel a $30 million grant that Syracuse officials are counting on to revitalize a poor neighborhood near Interstate 81 after the highway is torn down.

Onondaga County deputy files lawsuit, says department discriminates against female employees: A lawsuit filed by a female deputy with the Onondaga County Sheriffs Office claimed men with lower exam scores and less experience were promoted to sergeant ahead of her during multiple rounds of promotions.

Looking ahead

More Syracuse Democratic primary debates coming: At least three more debates in the Syracuse Democratic primary for mayor will take place ahead of the June vote, including one set for tonight.

Upstate NY shows: Los Lonely Boys | In This Moment | Syracuse Orchestra

Sports

Fastest game on two feet once again? When the Cazenovia and Jordan-Elbridge girls lacrosse teams met last April, the ending of a 10-8 contest looked more like a keepaway game than a back-and-forth affair between two evenly matched foes. When the two teams played each other this year, the 19-18 contest went down to the wire. The difference? The experimental use of a shot clock in boys and girls lacrosse by New York State high schools this season.

MORE SPORTS:

In brief

Driver given 12 tickets after box truck hits Onondaga Lake Parkway bridge

See the 2 Onondaga County towns where average home sale prices are up 20%

New brewery taproom opens at a well-known CNY apple and fruit orchard

Pilot program offers free doorbell cameras to 90 Syracuse residents

Heavy rains causes flooding in parts of Cayuga, Onondaga counties

Narcan expired? Oneida County will mail businesses, residents free rescue kits

Todays obituaries

To view todays obituaries, please click here.

Your news. Your way.

New Custom Email Alerts let you select your favorite topics happening in your town. Choose the topics you love, well do the rest.
Nigel Chabot-Douglas is the suspect of a hit and run in Syracuse that happened in the 1200 block of Butternut Street on March 23, 2025. Syracuse Police Department

Syracuse, N.Y.  Syracuse police are still looking for a 27-year-old man involved in a fatal hit-in-run two weeks ago.

The man, Nigel Chabot-Douglas, 27, is accused of fleeing the scene after his vehicle hit a man at 10:21 p.m. on March 23 in the 1200 block of Butternut Street.

He was driving a white 2025 Nissan Altima, which was a rental vehicle, according to Kieran Coffey, a spokesperson for the Syracuse Police. The vehicle has been recovered.

It is believed that Chabot-Douglas may have left the state, he said.

The man killed was Galdino Moran, 56, of Syracuse.

Moran was declared dead at the scene, police said. Moran lived nearby on Griffiths Street.

Moran, a native of Mexico, moved to the United States and settled in Syracuse, according to his obituary. He was employed as a cook at various local restaurants and retired in 2015 after 10 years as head cook at Dominics.

In 2018, Chabot-Douglas was sentenced to 1 1/2 to 3 years in state prison for third-degree attempted robbery, according to county records. In 2015, he was sentenced to a year in county jail for third-degree burglary, records show.

Police ask anyone with information about the hit-and-run or Chabot-Douglas to contact the Syracuse Police Traffic Division at (315) 442-5130.

Police blocked off a portion of Butternut Street near Griffiths Street after a hit-and-run on Sunday, March 23, 2025. Anne Hayes | Ahayes@syracuse.com

Syracuse.com staff writer Timia Cobb covers breaking news. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at tcobb@syracuse.com.
Erin Quinn getting her climbing equipment on. She taught herself how to climb trees to rescue cats. Courtesy of Erin Quinn

Geddes, N.Y.  Firefighters sometimes get calls to rescue a cat stuck in a tree.

Theyre less accustomed to rescuing the person who climbs the tree to save the cat.

But last Tuesday night, thats exactly what happened.

Erin Quinn, 40, of Syracuse, is a self-taught tree climber who rescues cats in her spare time. After seeing a screenshot of a Nextdoor post about a cat stuck in a tree behind a house on Stinson Street in Geddes, she decided to help.

The next morning, Quinn grabbed her climbing gear and headed to the tree. Perched on a branch was a black cat, visibly distressed, Quinn said. She spent two hours in 80-degree heat trying to coax it down. The cat was panting in the heat but wouldnt budge.

I felt so terrible for the cat, Quinn said. I just love animals so much and I could feel how stressed it was.

Exhausted, she took a break and planned to return later. But when she saw a storm approaching that evening, she knew time was running out. The storm brought strong winds, toppled trees, and left more than 19,000 people in Central New York without power.

Around 8:30 p.m., after the storm passed, Quinn returned to make another attempt. Thats when she said she made a big mistake.

The cat stuck in the tree April 29, 2025 before Erin Quinn climbed the tree to try and recue that cat. Courtesy of Erin Quinn

She accidentally threw her rope over a branch too far from the trees center. When she climbed up, she found herself stuckunable to move toward the trunk and left dangling in the wet, slippery branches. She began losing circulation in her legs.

Realizing she couldnt get down on her own, she told the homeowner to call the fire department.

Finally, I was able to get myself switched around to the other side of the tree and calmed down, Quinn said.

In her nine years of climbing, Quinn said shes only needed firefighters to help her once before. That was early in her climbing days when she said she didnt have proper equipment.

Erin Quinn climbing a tree to help rescue a cat that climbed up there a few months ago. She got to the cat and was able to rescue it. Courtesy of Erin Quinn

Lakeside firefighters arrived just after 8:45 p.m. to help get her down, according to Onondaga County 911 dispatches.

They called in the Syracuse Fire Departments Rescue Company because they had the specialized equipment needed to get Quinn down, said Capt. Phillip Vogt, a spokesperson for the department.

The fire departments couldnt get a fire truck to the tree because of the location, so firefighters carried a ladder into the backyard to help Quinn down, she said.

A firefighter climbed a ladder to reach Quinn and then secured her into a lowering system. She was safely brought back to the ground.

The cat, however, was still in the tree.

Quinn fashioned a makeshift basket out of rope and tossed it into the branches, hoping the cat might climb inside. When she returned the next day, the cat was gone. The basket was empty.

I hope it jumped down from the tree and didnt fall, Quinn said. I want to go out and try to find the cat again.

Quinn rescues one to two cats from trees each year and frequently helps stray cats in her neighborhood, she said. She also raises money for people who need help covering their pets medical expenses.

Right now, she shares her home with 18 animals17 rescue cats and one dog. Shes currently working to adopt one of the cats.

I want to bring more awareness to cats in general, she said. Cats in trees, cat overpopulation, and the importance of spaying and neutering.

***

Quinn said the best way to reach her for help regarding cats in Central New York is through her Facebook.

Erin Quinn with one of her cats. She has 18 animals17 rescue cats and one dog. Courtesy of Erin Quinn

Staff writer Greta Stuckey covers breaking news. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at gstuckey@syracuse.com.
Bolton Farms owner John Bolton looks up as he works at the hydroponic farm Friday, March 21, 2025, in Hilton, N.Y. (Caitlyn Daproza via AP) AP

SKANEATELES, N.Y.  Farmer Jeremy Brown taps the nose of a young calf. I love the ones with the pink noses, he says.

This pink-nosed animal is just one of about 3,200 cattle at Twin Birch Dairy in Skaneateles, New York. In Browns eyes, the cows on the farm arent just workers: Theyre the boss, theyre the queen of the barn.

Brown, a co-owner at Twin Birch, is outspoken on the importance of sustainability in his operation. The average dairy cow emits as much as 265 pounds (120 kilograms) of methane, a potent climate-warming gas, each year. Brown says Twin Birch has worked hard to cut its planet-warming emissions through a number of environmentally sound choices.

Ruminants are the solution, not the problem, to climate change, he said.

Wearing a weathered hoodie and a hat promoting a brand of cow medicine, Brown was spending a windy Friday morning artificially inseminating some of the farms massive Jerseys and Holsteins. He stepped over an electric manure scraper used to clean the animals barn.

The electric scraper means the dairy doesnt have to use a fuel-burning machine for that particular job. Twin Birch also recycles manure for use on crops, cools its milk with water that gets recirculated for cows to drink and grows most of its own feed.

Despite all that, the farm has no desire to pursue a U.S. Department of Agriculture organic certification, Brown said. Doing so would add costs and require the farm to forego technology that makes the dairy business, and ultimately the customers jug of milk, more affordable, he said.

He raises a question many farmers have been asking: Is organic farming just a word?

Declining enthusiasm for the organic certification

An increasing number of American farmers think so. Americas certified organic acreage fell almost 11% between 2019 and 2021. Numerous farmers who implement sustainable practices told The Associated Press that they have stayed away from the certification because its costly, doesnt do enough to combat climate change and appears to be losing cachet in the marketplace. Converting an existing farm from conventional to organic agriculture can cost tens of thousands of dollars and add labor costs.

The rules governing the National Organic Program were published in 2000, and in the years after, organic farming boomed to eventually reach more than 5 million acres. But that has been declining in recent years.

Any downward trend is significant, as organic farms make up less than 1% of the countrys total acreage, and organic sales are typically only a tiny share of the nationwide total.

Shannon Ratcliff, a farmer and co-owner of organically certified Shannon Brook Farms in Watkins Glen, New York, attributes the decline to a 2018 fraud case in Iowa involving a farmer selling grain mislabeled as certified organic. The whole thing went crazy  work requirements for farmers ramped up and inspection levels were higher, she said.

Its also just a tough business, Ratcliff said.

Her co-owner, Walter Adam, also thinks younger generations interest in farming of any kind is also declining.

It takes six months to learn everything, Adam said. We cant find anybody as willing to work on the farm.

Adam drives to Manhattan each week to sell their meat and eggs at markets, and spends Sunday mornings helping Ratcliff with business at the Brighton Farmers Market in Brighton, New York.

Frank Mitloehner, a professor in animal science in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at University of California Davis, said lack of flexibility and efficiency are driving farmers away from organic in an era of rising prices for farmers. He said organic standards need to be overhauled or the marketplace risks organic going away completely.

I am in awe that so many organic farmers were able to produce that way for that long, he said. It seems that they are losing consumer base in these financially troubling times.

But the label still matters to some buyers

Still, there are consumers determined to buy organic. Aaron Swindle, a warehouse employee at a chain supermarket, spends every Sunday morning shopping for organic groceries at the Brighton Farmers Market.

The taste quality is different when its growing nearby, Swindle said. He calls the Finger Lakes of New York a trifecta, a region that contributes dairy, produce, and meat for its residents.

John Bolton, owner of Bolton Farms in Hilton, New York, said he has some reservations about organic certification, but hes pursuing it for his hydroponic farm, which grows produce in nutrient-rich water instead of soil. It produces greens such as kale and chard and is popular as a supplier for restaurants in western New York, and draws waves of regular customers at the Rochester Public Market on weekends.

Bolton doesnt use pesticides. On a chilly day this spring, he was at his greenhouse unloading 1,500 ladybugs to do the work of eliminating the operations aphids. Thats the kind of practice organic farms use to earn the certification, he said.

He said his operations arent immune to the dangers posed by climate change. Abnormally hot days affect their greenhouse, he said: Its devastating to not only the people but the plants.

But Bolton described the organic certification as economically and environmentally beneficial to his farm. Getting the certification will carry an expense, but he is confident it will be worth the price.

It helps with sales. And you feel good about it  youre doing the right practices, Bolton said.

___

EDITORS NOTE: This story is a collaboration between Rochester Institute of Technology and The Associated Press.

The Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.
Gov. Kathy Hochul will testify in Washington next month on New York's migrant policies. Hochul visits Onondaga Community College in Syracuse, Jan. 29, 2025. (N. Scott Trimble | strimble@syracuse.com) N. Scott Trimble | strimble@syracuse.com

Gov. Kathy Hochul and two other Democratic governors will testify in June on their states migrant policies before a House of Representatives committee.

Hochul, along with Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, will face questioning on their administrations moves to reduce or ban cooperation with federal immigration authorities, according to the New York Post.

Republicans have argued that those moves, often known as sanctuary policies, lead to more illegal immigration and hamper deportations, the Post said.

Sanctuary policies only provide sanctuaries for criminal illegal aliens, said House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.), who invited the governors to Washington for the hearing, according to the Post. Former President Biden created the worst border crisis in US history and allowed criminal illegal aliens to flood our communities.

The Trump administration is taking decisive action to deport criminal illegal aliens from our nation, but reckless sanctuary states like Illinois, Minnesota and New York are actively seeking to obstruct federal immigration enforcement.

A spokesman for Hochul said she has been clear from Day 1: She supports deporting violent criminals who break our laws, believes that law-abiding families should not be targets, and will coordinate with federal authorities who have a judicial warrant, according to the Post.

Gov. Hochul has voluntarily agreed to appear before the committee and will reiterate what shes said dozens of times: New York cooperates with federal immigration officials to deport violent criminals, but absolutely does not support cruel actions that tear families apart or rip children away from their parents, the spokesman said, according to the Post.

The hearing with the governors follows a similar panel in March on sanctuary policies with multiple mayors, including New York City Mayor Eric Adams, the Post said.

The Trump administration has employed new tactics in its immigration enforcement in recent months, including in Upstate New York. Trump promised mass deportations during the campaign last year.
This 2011 file photo shows the Kool-Aid Man, a mascot for the powdered sugar drink product, in the Kool-Aid lounge at the "Spy Kids: All The Time In The World 4D" premiere at the ESPN Zone at L.A. Live on July 31, 2011 in Los Angeles, California. (Getty Images) WireImage

A viral TikTok trend is being blamed for a vandalism spree in New York state.

According to SILive.com, multiple homeowners on Staten Island have reported damage to their property believed to be part of the Kool-Aid Man challenge. Social media users have posted videos of themselves busting through fences and yelling Oh yeah! like Kool-Aids mascot in 80s TV commercials.

Besides being annoyed by late-night disruptions, homeowners say the human-sized holes in their fences can cost hundreds of dollars to fix. The New York Post reports inflicting property damage over $250 is considered third-degree felony criminal mischief.

A law enforcement source told SILive that police are facing challenges stopping the behavior. Even if arrested, vandals younger than 18 years old would be treated as children and likely not face serious legal consequences.

NYS Assemblyman Michael Reilly (R-Staten Island) said that he confronted a group of teens he believed had damaged a fence minutes before he and his wife returned to their home April 26. He said he also issued a warning to their parents about the risks of injury and potential violent confrontations with homeowners.

I know kids do stupid things, Reilly said. Theyre bored and they start doing these things. We were all kids once. We all did stuff that could have got us into trouble.

Other victims and officials similarly called for parents to take more responsibility for their kids actions.

This behavior is stupid, arrogant and reprehensible, and the parents of these children should be ashamed, Richmond County District Attorney Michael E. McMahon told SILive.com.

According to the Post, the Kool-Aid Man challenge first emerged in 2020 with 15 cases reported in Omaha, Nebraska. At least four incidents were reported in Westerleigh, N.Y., in 2021, and another five occurred in Suffolk County in 2023.

NBC reports the trend appears to have resurged last month, including in Eltingville and Princes Bay. Police said home security videos have shown teens running and crashing through fences while friends follow with phones, recording them in an attempt to get likes and shares online.
This 2025 file photo shows the Roblox gaming app displayed on an iPhone. (Photo by Silas Stein/picture alliance via Getty Images) Getty Images

An Upstate New York man has been arrested after allegedly using Roblox to contact minors for sex.

Tony Rodriguez, 40, of Fairport, N.Y., is accused of attempting to meet an 11-year-old girl he found on Roblox, an online game platform popular with young children, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office, Western District of New York.

Rodriguez, using the handle Tony Rodrigo, believed he was communicating with a child named Emiry, a criminal complaint said. The conversation turned sexual as he sent lewd pictures and arranged to meet Emiry at the Fairport Library for sex on March 12.

A community member said they showed up at the meeting to confront Rodriguez, who allegedly admitted to communicating online with other minors between 13 and 16 years old. The community member called police, but Rodriguez fled the scene.

On April 15, the Monroe County Sheriffs Office responded to a residence in the Town of Perinton where Tony Rodrigo allegedly arranged to meet a 13-year-old for a sexual encounter. The meeting was arranged by an individual in an online volunteer group on Facebook to expose child predators.

In both cases, Rodriguez allegedly used Facebook to attempt to contact 11- and 13-year-old girls after connecting with them on Roblox.

A search of two cellular phones seized from Rodriguez recovered approximately six images of child pornography, prosecutors said. An investigation also found Rodriguez was using Instagram to communicate with a 13-year-old and was active on a Reddit subreddit community associated with teens.

Rodriguez has been charged with enticement and possession of child pornography, which carry a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life.

Rodriguez made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark W. Pedersen and was detained.
People watch the sunrise at a beach in Sanur near Denpasar, on Indonesia resort island of Bali on May 1, 2025. (Photo by SONNY TUMBELAKA / AFP) (Photo by SONNY TUMBELAKA/AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images

The U.S. Department of State has issued a travel advisory for Indonesia, warning travelers to exercise increased caution when traveling to the Southeast Asian country due to terrorism and natural disasters.

The advisory, put into effect on April 30, has been labeled Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution on the four-level system. However, two regions of the country  specifically, the provinces of Central Papua (Papua Tengah) and Highland Papua (Papua Pegunungan)  should not be visited at all as they have been labeled Level 4: Do Not Travel due to civil unrest.

The Level 2 warning includes popular Indonesian tourist destinations like the island of Bali and the countrys capital city, Jakarta. Travelers should remain vigilant during their stay as terrorists continue to plot possible attacks and may attack with little or no warning.

Potential target areas include police stations, places of worship, hotels, bars, nightclubs, markets/shopping malls, and restaurants.

Meanwhile, Indonesia is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, or volcanic eruptions. If these events occur, it could result in disruptions to transportation, infrastructure, sanitation, and the availability of health services.

Travelers should also avoid demonstrations and crowds as they have the potential to become violent.

If you do decide to travel to Indonesia, the advisory urges travelers to monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust plans if necessary. Travelers should also enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts during their visit.

Other important materials that travelers can familiarize themselves with include the Country Security Report for Indonesia, Badan Geologi (the Indonesian Geological Agency), and the CDCs suggestions on how to prepare for natural disasters.

You can view the full travel advisory here.
A state of emergency was issued for the Village of Jordan Tuesday night due to flooding. Roads are now open and passable, Thursday, May 7, 2025. Christina Prete Curtis

Editors note: Syracuse.coms Jon Moss and Greta Stuckey contributed to this report.

Jordan, N.Y.  A number of people living in homes in Jordan had to evacuate Tuesday night when water from Skaneateles Creek overflowed its banks, flooding parts of the village.

Around 9 p.m., the village was advised that the creek was cresting in numerous areas, Jordan Mayor Casey Brim said in a news release Wednesday.

Residents in five to 10 homes had to evacuate, the mayor said. Significant flooding was reported along Valley Drive, Vale Street, Elbridge Street, Chappell Street, Mechanic Street and Railroad Street.

Homes flooded and roads were washed out.

Around 10:30 p.m., Brim declared a state of emergency.

People were evacuated to the Jordan-Eldridge community center.

The creek, which runs through the heart of the village, set a new record, according to data dating back to 2014.

The creek crested at 5.9 feet at 7:45 p.m. Tuesday, according to a syracuse.com analysis of data from the U.S. Geological Survey. The previous record crest was about six inches lower, at 5.43 feet, when the remnants of Tropical Storm Fred moved through the region in August 2021.

The water level was captured by a monitoring station installed in 2014 a few miles upstream of Jordan, near the Tessy Plastics plant on State Route 5 in Elbridge.

At 4:30 a.m. Wednesday, all village streets were passable, but had a significant amount of debris along the shoulder of the roads and the sidewalks.

Brim asked drivers to utilize caution while traveling throughout the village today.

The Jordan Fire Department, the Northwest Fire District, Lakeside Fire Department, Solvay Fire Department and state Fire Swift Water Task Force helped residents along Valley Drive and Vale Street evacuate their homes, according to Brim.

Staff writer Darian Stevenson covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at dstevenson@syracuse.com
Jordan, N.Y.  What began as an ordinary Tuesday night for Amanda Andrews quickly turned into chaos as flash floods hit the village of Jordan, leaving her and others trapped inside their homes.

Around 9:30 p.m., Andrews, who lives on Elbridge Street beside Skaneateles Creek, started receiving panicked calls from neighbors.

When she looked out the window, she was stunned.

It was like a river, she said. There was water all over and nowhere to go.

The creek hit a record level and overflowed into the village. Five to 10 homes were evacuated due to the flooding, said Jordan Mayor Casey Brim.

He declared a state of emergency around 10:30 p.m., and the Jordan-Elbridge Community Center opened for displaced residents.

Water kept rising: Absolute insanity

Originally from Skaneateles, Andrews now lives in Jordan with her boyfriend. She described the night as absolute insanity and said shed never seen anything like it. As the water kept rising, panic set in.

I started pacing because I didnt know what to do, she said. It was that feeling of being stuckknowing we would make it out but not knowing how or when.

Outside, water had climbed above her cars headlights. Furniture floated through the street and yard. A large ceramic flowerpot, that Andrews described as the size of a boulder, floated past her house in the current.

In the basement, the water was quickly coming toward the first floor. By the time Andrews, her boyfriend, and their neighbor were rescued, only two steps remained visible. The rest had disappeared underwater.

Shortly after 10:30 p.m., her neighbor called 911. Firefighters arrived and used ropes tied around their waist to guide them out of the house. She wrapped the rope around her waist and followed the firefighters.

Andrews wanted to bring her cats, but first responders said it was too dangerous. She placed them in the highest bedroom before evacuating.

We had to shuffle our feet through the water because the current was so strong, she said.

The couple spent the night at a relatives house. When they returned around 1 a.m., they found the cats safe and minimal damage to their home.

On Wednesday morning, Andrews said their landlord worked to pump the water out of their basement and backyard. She and her boyfriend had to check on how badly their cars were damaged in the flood.

Life-long resident: Worst ever seen

Jolene Pelmear said it was around 10 p.m. when firefighters came to her door and told her to evacuate her house on Mechanic Street.

Ive lived in this town my whole life, and Ive never seen the creek overflow like that, Pelmear said.

Pelmear got her cat Maestro, her mother and her grandmother into her car. She tried to take South Chappell Street to Elbridge Street but couldnt turn right due to the bridge being washed over.

She was given directions by utility workers to safely drive to the community center but was turned away because of her cat. Her family ended up staying in a Camillus hotel.

On Wednesday morning, she found three feet of water in her basement. The furnace was damaged, and the home doesnt have heat or hot water.

The village is working to get the water out of the basement, but Pelmear isnt sure when they will be able to return home.

Other residents evacuated before conditions worsened. A couple with two children on Valley Drive drove to safety, but said they heard some of their neighbors had to be rescued by boat.

Escaping through chest deep water

Mickey and Redonna Geelan, who live on nearby Vale Street, werent as lucky. When they tried to leave, Redonnas car stalled and began floating. Mickey managed to drive his car out just in time, but firefighters had to help the couple walk through chest-deep water to reach safety.

The water was up to my husbands chestand hes 6-foot-1, Redonna said. I kept yelling, Get out, get out.

The Geelans spent the night at a hotel. When they returned home Wednesday morning, firefighters began pumping water out of their flooded basement. Redonna believes her car is likely totaled, but shes just grateful everyone made it out.

It was pretty devastating, and I was scared, she said. If the car gets totaled, it gets totaled. Cars are replaceable, people arent.

The Skaneateles Creek after a bad rainstorm flooded many streets in the Village of Jordan on May 6, 2025. Greta Stuckey

Staff writer Greta Stuckey covers breaking news. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at gstuckey@syracuse.com.
A state of emergency was issued for the Village of Jordan Tuesday night due to flooding. Roads are now open and passable, Thursday, May 7, 2025. Christina Prete Curtis

Jordan, N.Y.  The Village of Jordan has lifted a state of emergency it declared Tuesday night after flooding closed roads.

The state of emergency was declared around 10:30 p.m. Tuesday. Jordan police asked those who needed to evacuate to do so for their safety.

Photos and videos posted online show water rushing down some roads.

Police had reported multiple streets were closed:

Mechanic Street between South Chappell and Main streets.

Elbridge Street between South Main and South Skaneateles streets.

Valley Drive between Elbridge Street and Crego Road.

As of 11 p.m. Tuesday, 1.27 inches of rain had fallen in the village, according to the National Weather Service.

Around 4:30 a.m. Wednesday, the police said on its Facebook page that all roads are passable and open.

Police advised people to avoid Vale Street unless they are there assisting in recovery efforts. There is a lot of debris on the sidewalks and road shoulders, they said.

Staff writer Darian Stevenson covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at dstevenson@syracuse.com
Teagasc Host International Grazing4AgroEcology National Award Winners and Young Farmers

Top European Grassland farmers were celebrated last week in Ireland, as part of the Grazing4AgroEcology thematic network project hosted in the Teagasc Animal and Grassland, Research and Innovation Centre in Moorepark, Fermoy, County Cork.

European members of the Grazing4AgroEcology project group are pictured on a visit to Teagasc Moorepark, Fermoy, Co Cork. Picture: OGorman Photography.

The awards ceremony was the conclusion of a two-day Young Farmers tour and project meeting which centred on visiting commercial and research farms across the country.

The Grazing4AgroEcology project has a multi-actor network focused on supporting farmers in optimising grazing for the environment, animals and society, while producing healthy food with less impact on natural resources. While grazing is generally declining in Europe, many of the farmers in the project have established suitable avenues to optimise grassland management, and at the same time contributing to ecological diversity and generating a positive image of grassland systems.

The eight award winners were selected from their national award networks. The Irish winners were Patrick and Michelle ONeill from County Longford, the Overall Winners of the Sustainable Grassland Farmer of the Year 2023 competition organised by the Grass10 programme. All the award winners had adapted their grassland systems in recent years and winners had positively improved their grassland systems.

The Eight National award winners were:

France  Kevin Helibert  Improving grazing infrastructures

Germany  Heiko Stelling  Moving from zero-grazing to full-day grazing

Netherlands  Renshe Weitkamp  Grazing4AgroEcology in practice

Romania  Cristian Echim  Rotational grazing in an organic system

Portugal  Fernando Luis Vasconcelos  Using GPS Collars

Sweden  Anna and Anders Carlsson  Managing a well-defined grazing system

Ireland  Patrick and Michelle O Neill  Low Chemical Nitrogen/High Clover grazing System

Italy  Sabine Widmann  Optimising farm management with closed nutrient cycles and direct marketing

The Grazing4AgroEcolgy thematic project is led by the Gruenlandzentrum Research Centre in Bremen Germany by Dr Arno Krause. Professor Michael ODonovan, Teagasc Moorepark commented; this event really shows how innovative and adaptive grassland farmers must be. Some of the climatic challenges that they manage through are tough, however all the winners have shown themselves to be excellent grassland farmers, and hugely respected in their countries.

Pictured in Cork at the presentation of Grazing4AgroEcology 2025 awards are Professor Michael ODonovan, Teagasc Head of Grassland Science; Arno Krause, Germany; European Winners Pat and Michelle ONeill, Ireland (Longford) and Dr Michael Egan, Teagasc. Picture: OGorman Photography.

Over 70 young farmers attended the two-day event. Kieran McCarthy Grazing4AgroEcology Project researcher with Teagasc commented; The interest from the Young Farmers in Irish gazing systems shows that there are plenty of aspects that Irish and European grassland systems have in common  grazing infrastructure kept coming up as an area to improve on farms. Sweden and Germany had the largest attendance of young farmers which shows continued interest in grassland systems in those countries.
What just happened? A new bill introduced in Congress aims to challenge Apple's and Google's control over mobile app marketplaces. If passed, it could transform how millions of Americans access apps and reshape the business models of the largest tech companies.

A new bill introduced in the US House of Representatives could change how Americans use and access mobile apps. The App Store Freedom Act, spearheaded by Representative Kat Cammack of Florida, directly targets the dominance of tech giants like Apple and Google in the mobile app marketplace. While the legislation does not mention these companies by name, it explicitly targets any app store with over 100 million US users, a threshold only Apple and Google currently meet.

If enacted, the bill would require major app store operators to allow users to install third-party app stores and set them as the default option. This move is designed to increase competition and consumer choice.

It would also mandate that users be able to remove or hide pre-installed apps, and allow for "sideloading"  the installation of apps from outside the official store.

The legislation prohibits several practices that have drawn criticism from developers and regulators. App stores would be banned from forcing developers to use proprietary payment systems, imposing pricing parity requirements across platforms, or penalizing developers for distributing their apps elsewhere.

The bill also forbids platform owners from using nonpublic business information derived from developers' apps to compete against those developers. Furthermore, it would prevent platform owners from restricting developers' communication with users about business offers, provided user consent rules are followed.

Enforcement would be handled by the FTC and state attorneys general, with violations classified as unfair or deceptive acts under the FTC Act. Penalties could reach up to $1 million per violation. The bill would preempt conflicting state laws while preserving state-level rules on contracts, torts, and data security.

The push for this legislation comes amid a global reckoning over the power of major tech companies. In Europe, similar rules under the Digital Markets Act have already led to significant changes. Apple was fined 500 million for limiting how developers could communicate with users about sales and promotions and was ordered to remove technical and commercial barriers that hindered competition. Google has also made adjustments in response to EU regulations, such as adding a browser choice screen during device setup.

In the US, a federal judge recently ordered Apple to immediately halt practices that limit competition on its app store and maintain high commissions on app sales. A long-fought battle partially won by Fortnite-maker Epic Games.

Reactions to the App Store Freedom Act are divided. Supporters, including the Coalition for App Fairness  which represents companies like Epic Games, Spotify, and Match Group  argue that the bill is necessary to end anti-competitive practices.

Conversely, industry groups such as the Computer & Communications Industry Association warn that the legislation could undermine security and expose users to greater risks from malicious apps. They argue that platform owners need flexibility to respond to evolving threats.
What just happened? We've seen stories in the past of people using artificial intelligence to have conversations with deceased loved ones  or at least the system's interpretation of their personality. Now, AI technology has been used so a man who was murdered in a road rage incident in 2021 could address his killer in court.

37-year-old army veteran Christopher Pelkey was killed by Gabriel Horcasitas at a red light in 2021 in Chandler, Arizona. Pelkey had left his vehicle and was walking back toward Horcasitas' car when he was shot.

In what is believed to be the first use of AI to deliver a victim statement, a lifelike simulacrum of the deeply religious Pelkey addressed the man who killed him in an Arizona court.

"To Gabriel Horcasitas, the man who shot me, it is a shame we encountered each other that day in those circumstances," said Pelkey. "In another life, we probably could have been friends."

"I believe in forgiveness, and a God who forgives. I always have, and I still do."

Stacey Wales, Pelkey's sister, came up with the idea to use AI in this way as she collected victim impact statements and prepared her own.

"We received 49 letters that the judge was able to read before walking into sentencing that day. But there was one missing piece. There was one voice that was not in those letters," she said. "All I kept coming back to was, what would Chris say?"

Wales poses with the photo of her brother on which the AI-generated video is based (credit: Fox 10)

Unlike other instances of generative AI being used to speak to deceased individuals, Wales wrote the script that her brother delivered. The technology was used to create a video of an older version of Pelkey, based on a photograph provided by the family, and put the words into his mouth, making this more like a deepfake  albeit one created for a good cause.

This was one of the rare cases where a judge welcomed the use of AI in a courtroom. Judge Todd Lang said "I loved that AI, thank you for that. As angry as you are, as justifiably angry as the family is, I heard the forgiveness." Pelkey's brother John was equally pleased, saying that seeing his brother's face made him feel "waves of healing."

Lang sentenced Horcasitas to 10-and-a-half years in prison on manslaughter charges.

Most of the instances of AI being used in courtrooms haven't gone well. Back in 2023, what was set to be the first case of an AI "robot lawyer" used in a court of law never materialized after the CEO behind it was threatened with jail time.

There have also been several instances of human lawyers using generative AI to file briefs containing nonexistent cases. A case this year led to a $15,000 fine for the lawyer involved. In June 2023, two lawyers and their law firm were fined $5,000 by a district judge in Manhattan for citing fake legal research generated by ChatGPT.
Blast from the past? In 1998, Buffalo Japan introduced the "skeleton hard disk," a drive designed to showcase its inner workings. To mark its 50th anniversary, the company is releasing an updated version of the original HDD. Priced at 100,000 yen (approximately $696), the new Skeleton Hard Disk offers a 4TB capacity  but getting your hands on one will be a challenge.

Buffalo designed the Skeleton Hard Disk as an external USB drive with a premium package and design, though its technical specifications aren't groundbreaking. Using a standard USB 3.2 (Gen 1) interface, the drive lets users see the spinning magnetic surface and moving read/write heads during I/O operations. Forget state of the art. We want novelty.

Unfortunately, Buffalo didn't release specific internal specifications, so it's unclear whether Buffalo chose CMR or SMR recording technology for this celebratory product. While Buffalo designed the USB HDD as a desk centerpiece, the company reassures customers that it still serves as a standard external USB storage device.

Buffalo offers a dedicated application called SeekWizard, a Windows-only utility that runs the HDD in various "demo" modes. The tool lets users choose from different head movement patterns, including "random seek," "sequential seek," and "second hand step."

Buffalo says the new Skeleton Hard Disk builds on a modernized version of the original concept design, retaining the essence of its innovative predecessor while offering a more refined, contemporary look. The hefty chassis provides a "unique" desk presence and reinforces the product's premium feel, making it stand out as an exclusive collector's item. The elegant packaging adds an unexpected touch of sophistication  something rarely seen with standard USB hard disk drives, enhancing the overall luxury appeal.

The company designed the Skeleton Hard Disk to appeal to Buffalo's most devoted magnetic recording storage technology fans. Only 50 units are available, so the company will hold a Japan-exclusive lottery to determine which lucky customers will receive one of these extremely limited edition HDDs. Winners should expect their shipments sometime in June.
Elon Musk's SpaceX has recently been given an approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that allows the company to stage launches for its Starship program every other week. This follows the length environmental review conducted by the FAA.

Late last year, a draft finding already hinted at a renewed launch cadence for the Starship program should its environmental review lean towards the positive. Six months later, it is now a reality for Musk's space company.

SpaceX Starship May Now Launch Every Other Week

The FAA has released a new document detailing the latest win for SpaceX and Musk, particularly as the Starship program received its approved launch and land cadence under its operator license. The document entitled "Mitigated Finding of No Significant Impact" recently declared that SpaceX's Starship operations does not significantly affect "the quality of the human environment," hence its approval.

With this latest development, the draft finding that suggested a modification to SpaceX's operator license to launch the Starship rocket every other week is now approved and signed by the FAA's Office of Operational Safety executive director, Daniel P. Murray.

This new launch cadence approval for SpaceX means that they could launch the Starship program, Ship and Super Heavy Booster rocket combined, as many as 25 launches per year from Starbase in Boca Chica, Texas.

FAA Approves Starship's Launch Cadence

Alongside this approved launch and land cadence for Starship, SpaceX would have to effect "mitigation measures" to ensure that they would not disrupt the human environment and wildlife in the area.

ArsTechnica has reported that one of the mitigations requires SpaceX to operate their trucks and employee shuttles during the daytime as they would significantly increase the annual traffic in the area.

That being said, there is still no concrete schedule as of press time for when Starship's Flight 9 would take place.

SpaceX Starship and the FAA Review

SpaceX faced massive setbacks in their hopes to get the Starship operational, particularly as the FAA decided to conduct an environmental assessment of the program's effect on the ecosystem and wildlife around it in Boca Chica, Texas. In addition, residents of the area have also raised their concerns.

Two years ago, Starship was given the license to start its test flights after the previous review, leading to multiple missions.

Despite being successful in Flight 4, which saw both the Ship and the Super Heavy Booster rocket splash down in different bodies of water, SpaceX was yet again held up by an environmental analysis before it was given the license for Flight 5.

That being said, Starship's fifth flight test was the most successful as it not only brought back the Ship for its splashdown, but it also caught the Super Heavy for the first time.

SpaceX's Flight 7 may not have been as successful as previous missions, but the grind did not stop there for the company, as they have since worked on improving their systems and spacecraft for its further testing and, potentially, its first official launch.
Mennonite communities raise hackles in Peruvian Amazon



Masisea, Peru, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



When they saw men with arrows and machetes bearing down on them, Daniel Braun and other Mennonites living in the Peruvian Amazon fled across rice paddies, some of their barns ablaze behind them.

In Masisea, a remote settlement near Peru's border with Brazil accessible only by boat along a tributary of the Amazon or over dirt paths, members of the austere Protestant sect are under siege.

Here, as in several other South American countries, the reclusive Christians, who have roots in 16th-century Europe and who eschew modernity, are accused of destroying forests as they expand their agricultural imprint on the continent.

In 2024, Peruvian prosecutors charged 44 men from the Masisea Mennonite colony with destroying 894 hectares (2,209 acres) of virgin forest and requested that each be sentenced to between eight and 10 years in prison.

The trial would be the first of a Mennonite colony in Latin America for environmental crimes.

The men's lawyer, Carlos Sifuentes, argues that the land was "already cleared" when the community bought it.



- Rich versus poor -



A 2021 study carried out by researchers at Canada's McGill University counted 214 Mennonite colonies in Latin America occupying some 3.9 million hectares, an area bigger than the Netherlands.

In Peru, Mennonites have established five thriving colonies in the Amazon in the past decade.

Their presence is a thorn in the side of the 780-strong Shipibo-Konibo Indigenous community, which lives on the shores of Lake Imiria about 10 miles (16 kilometers) from Masisea.

The Shipibo-Konibo live in wooden huts of palm or zinc roofs with no electricity or running water, surviving off fishing and subsistence farming.

They accuse the wealthier Mennonites, whom they call "forest termites," of illegally occupying around 600 hectares of their 5,000-hectare territory.

"The Mennonites build ranches on communal land... They engage in deforestation. What they are doing is a crime against the environment," Indigenous leader Abner Ancon, 54, told AFP.



- Horse-drawn carriages -



The Mennonites arrived in Peru from neighboring Bolivia.

David Klassen, a 45-year-old father of five children ranging in age from seven to 20, said they were driven to emigrate because of a shortage of farmland and because of Bolivia's "radical left" policies.

Today, the self-sufficient enclave is comprised of some 63 families who raise cattle and pigs and grow rice and soybeans on 3,200 hectares while using diesel generators for power.

The men and boys wear checked shirts, suspenders and hats or caps. The women and girls wear long dresses, with their hair pulled back in tight braids or buns.

The community, which speaks a German dialect but whose leaders speak passable Spanish, has little contact with the outside world, relying on tractors and horse-drawn carriages as its main modes of transport.

After 10 years of peaceful coexistence with their Indigenous neighbors, the settlement came under attack last July.

Braun said he was sitting with other men outside a barn when a group of Shipibo-Konibo appeared out of nowhere.

"They came with arrows and machetes. They said you have one or two hours to leave," the 39-year-old recalled, adding that they set fire to property.

No one was injured in the standoff but the charred remains of a shed and a barn and zinc roofs were visible through the long grass.

Ancon admitted that his community's Indigenous guard had chased the Mennonites but "without resorting to violence."



- A fraction of the damage -



A lawyer for the Shipibo-Konibo, Linda Vigo, accused the settlers of hiring contractors to clear forest, "and when it's all cleared, the Mennonites come in with their tractors, flatten everything, and then you go in afterwards and find it all cultivated."

Pedro Favaron, a specialist on Indigenous peoples at the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru, acknowledged that the Mennonite farming model failed to meet "environmental expectations."

But he argued that the land they bought from mixed-race settlers in Masisea "was already degraded."

The independent Monitoring of the Andes Amazon Program, which tracks deforestation and fires, estimates the area cleared by Mennonites in Peru since 2017 at 8,660 hectares.

It's a tiny fraction of the three million hectares of forest lost over the past three decades in the Andean country, mainly due to fires, illegal mining and deforestation by other groups.

Standing in the middle of a verdant rice field, Klassen assured: "We love the countryside... We don't want to destroy everything."
Booming tourism and climate change threaten Albania's coast



Tirana, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



Albania's coast is being hit by a double whammy of climate change and chaotic tourist development.

From Velipoja in the north where the waves are swallowing a century-old forest, to the tourist hotspot of Golem where galloping construction of hotels and restaurants is accelerating erosion, the country's often spectacular Adriatic coast is under threat.

"Out of Albania's 273 kilometres (169 miles) of coastline some 154 are affected by erosion," urban planning specialist Besjana Shehu told AFP.

Tourism in the Balkan nation is booming, from 5.1 million visitors in 2018 to 10.1 million in 2023. But new hotels, restaurants and beach bars are also taking their toll on nature.

Rising sea level due to climate change is further complicating the situation.

In Velipoja, a protected area close to the border with Montenegro, the sea is advancing more than five metres (16 feet) a year.

It has already eaten 210 metres into the coastal forest, threatening an entire ecosystem that cannot live in salt water.

Dozens of pine trunks lie strewn on the sand, many uprooted by violent storms late last month.

"Velipoja Park is shrinking," warned Agim Dardha, head of the protected areas agency for the Shkodra region.

"In the past 10 years alone it has lost more than 30 hectares (74 acres)," he said.



- Death of an island -



Franz Jozeph island at the mouth of the nearby Buna River still figures on the maps and tourist guides.

But it actually vanished in 2012 after being swallowed by the sea.

Named by Austrian cartographers in 1870 after Emperor Franz Joseph I, the island was made up of rich alluvial soil.

Located only 150 metres from the coast, its 19.5 hectares were covered with trees and wild vegetation.

"A paradise for many species of seabirds, a haven of peace for us too... it is totally gone," lamented Lule Coli, who runs a small beach bar nearby.

But the construction of dams and hydroelectric power plants in the area hastened its death, said Ervis Krymi, geography professor at the University of Shkodra.

In Kune, a few kilometres further south, locals are also worried.

There are more big storms every year and the shore now looks like a tree graveyard.

"As a result of climate change in recent years, the sea has become very aggressive, advancing towards the land at a frantic pace that exceeds all forecasts," said Jak Gjini, an environment expert.

In some areas it is pushing 20 metres inland every year, he added.



- Flooding -



Communist-era bunkers built along the coast in the 1970s have disappeared under the waves.

But the storms also took small seaside bars run by locals. The force of the sea was so strong the sandbag barriers they put up were useless.

"There used to be two bunkers here. Now they're submerged," said Vera Faslliaj, who runs a small restaurant called Poseidon, named after the Greek god of the sea.

"The sea is coming and will take everything... in four or five years there won't be anything left here," she added.

Albanian authorities say that rising sea levels pose severe flood risks to many of the country's urban areas.

By the end of the decade more than a third of coastal areas will suffer direct consequences of flooding, according to the national civil protection agency.

In Golem, just south of the resort city of Durres, hotel owners are worried about the authorities' seeming indifference to finding solutions and curbing uncontrolled building along the coast.

"The sea cannot wait for the authorities to wake up," hotel administrator Edvin Dule said.

Around 70 metres of Golem's beach has been lost in the past 16 years.

Hotels springing up like mushrooms have further exacerbated the erosion and are shrinking the beaches on which they depend to attract tourists, locals say.

"It's a very worrying phenomenon that directly impacts the economy and tourism," Dule said.

"If we cannot offer what tourists expect -- umbrellas, deckchairs and activities on the sand -- we reduce the quality of what we offer, which will translate into lower visitor numbers."
Hong Kong loosens rules for harbour reclamation



Hong Kong, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2025



Hong Kong passed a law on Wednesday that made it easier for the government to create new land through reclamation in the city's famed Victoria Harbour despite objections from environmental activists.

Land reclamation was central to the Chinese city's economic growth for decades but shifting public opinion since the 1990s led to stringent legal rules that required projects to establish an "overriding public need".

Officials called those rules "restrictive" and proposed a bill last year to fast-track smaller projects, while also giving the city's leader more power over large-scale ones.

The bill will "enhance harbourfront areas for public enjoyment", the development bureau said, adding that the government had no plans for large-scale reclamation in Victoria Harbour.

Environmentalists had warned that the bill would allow the city's leader -- not the courts -- to have the final say over whether a project satisfied the "public need" test.

Speaking after the bill was passed on Wednesday, harbour protection advocate Paul Zimmerman said concerns over the city leader's expanded role have "not been really resolved".

"The protection of the harbour is not... embedded in the law as it was before," Zimmerman told AFP.

"It's a pity that the level of protection has been reduced."

Pro-Beijing lawmaker Bill Tang said during Wednesday's legislative session that attempts to "discredit the amendments" are "spreading false narratives".

Andrew Lam, another lawmaker, said: "As long as the public has reasonable grounds (to oppose reclamation), they can apply for judicial review at any time."

Harbour protection was one of Hong Kong's major activist causes in the decade following the former British colony's handover to China in 1997.

The city's top court ruled in a landmark case in 2004 that the harbour was "a special public asset and a natural heritage of Hong Kong people" that must be protected and preserved.

Beijing has cracked down on dissent in Hong Kong after huge and sometimes violent pro-democracy protests in the finance hub in 2019, and opposition lawmakers have quit or been ousted.

The Society for Protection of the Harbour, a 30-year-old advocacy group, is expected to convene soon to decide whether to continue its work, according to Zimmerman.

"Now that the government has... reduced the safeguards that (the law) provides, the Society is considering (hanging) up its coat," he said.
BEIJING, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Chinese port cities witnessed a notable surge in international tourist arrivals during the May Day holiday, spurred by streamlined visa policies and enhanced entry-exit services, according to immigration authorities across the country. From April 30 to May 3, the number of inbound and outbound foreign nationals at Beijing ports reached 69,000, up 52.1 percent year-on-year, with tourism, family visits and business cited as the main reasons for entry. On May 2, an international passenger flight from Paris touched down at Beijing Capital International Airport. As an elderly couple appeared uncertain while navigating the procedures at the immigration hall, Cui Zhuqing, a multilingual immigration officer, stepped forward to offer assistance in French, explaining the relevant policies and helping them clear customs smoothly. At major ports in Beijing, including the Capital and Daxing airports, multilingual service personnel like Cui provided over 100 consultations per shift. Moreover, dedicated lanes were set up for elderly, sick, disabled and pregnant travelers, while "one-stop" counters were set up to issue temporary entry permits and handle formalities efficiently. "Now it's so much easier to get a temporary entry permit. You don't even have to requeue -- it's as quick as tapping into the subway," a traveler from Russia said. In south China's city of Guangzhou, over 154,000 inbound and outbound cross-border travelers were recorded between May 1 and 3, marking a 23 percent year-on-year increase. "All 34 of our inspection lanes were fully operational during peak hours to ensure a safe and efficient passage," said Lin Shunyue, an officer at the city's Baiyun immigration checkpoint. As the third phase of the 137th China Import and Export Fair -- also known as the Canton Fair -- got underway, Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport saw a sharp uptick in activity. At a fast-track lane dedicated to the fair, officers teamed up with an AI-powered consultation system to assist travelers. "We visited Hong Kong after the second phase of the fair and returned for the third. China's visa-free policy made the whole process very convenient," a Polish businessman said. In the southwest Sichuan Province, Chengdu Tianfu International Airport maintained 24-hour immigration services during the five-day holiday, allowing foreign travelers immediate access upon arrival. With visa-free policies in place, a tourist from Spain had sufficient time to fully explore local attractions, see pandas, and enjoy Sichuan cuisine. "The city's unique charm, strong air connectivity, and efficient immigration clearance made Chengdu my top choice," she said. According to provincial immigration authorities, as of May 3, the ports of Chengdu recorded 160,000 visa-free entries of foreign nationals this year, and more than 23,000 travelers benefited from 24- or 240-hour visa-free transits, while over 51,000 transited without the need for immigration clearance. Nationwide, the National Immigration Administration (NIA) on Tuesday announced that border inspection agencies across China recorded 1.12 million entry and exit trips made by foreign nationals during the holiday period, up 43.1 percent year-on-year. Notably, more than 380,000 of them made visa-free entries into China, a 72.7 percent jump from the same period last year, according to the NIA. China currently grants unilateral visa-free entry to 38 countries. It also extended the transit visa-free period to 240 hours for travelers from 54 countries in December last year.
The government of Cape Verde has officially launched Tech Park Cape Verde (TechPark CV), described as a major milestone in the countrys digital transformation strategy.

Designed as a centre of excellence for technology companies, the park is part of Cape Verdes broader ambition to establish itself as the Tech Islands of West Africa  a regional hub connecting West Africa, Europe, and the Americas through digital services and innovation.

TechPark CV includes fully equipped facilities such as a data centre, a disaster recovery site, a business centre, an incubation centre, a civic event centre and a training and qualification centre across its two campuses, one located in Praia on Santiago Island and the other in Mindelo on Sao Vicente Island.

A central goal of the park is to advance emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, fintech, big data, and the Internet of Things (IoT). These efforts are backed by strong government support and competitive tax incentives.

As a Special Economic Zone for Technologies (ZEET), TechPark CV offers benefits including VAT and import tax exemptions, and a reduced 2.5% corporate tax rate for eligible companies.

The EUR51.85 million (US$58.78 million) project, developed in two phases with EUR45.5 million (US$51.6 million) in African Development Bank financing, has evolved from concept to a thriving technology centre since operations began in 2023.

The park reportedly now hosts 23 companies from seven countries, employs 311 young professionals, and has reached full occupancy of its 52 office spaces. It has the capacity to host up to 1,500 workers. Equipped with advanced infrastructure, the park is designed to nurture technology enterprises, foster collaboration with academic institutions, and create job opportunities for local talent.

The park has expanded its training programmes from six in 2023 to 50 in the first quarter of 2025, upskilling 2,769 people in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and software development.

The TechPark CV inauguration drew more than 100 international firms and major global players such as Intel, Microsoft, and Smart Africa, as well as hundreds of government officials, entrepreneurs, and academia.

Aligned with its regional strategy, TechPark CV will also work with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to promote innovation across the region.
Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Its easy to get caught up in awards season excitement as the Oscars approach  the glitz and glamour of the red carpet generating global talking points, memes and pub chatter for weeks on end.

But when its really broken down, the Oscars are essentially just a microcosm of Hollywood. Its a depressing fact that films directed by previous winners appear to have more chances of being nominated than those directed by newcomers.

Because of this, the best film in any given year almost never wins the evenings most coveted prize  in fact, its sometimes not even nominated in the first place. Parasites victory in 2022 was a recent rare exception.

Over the decades, there have been countless glaring omissions  films that were nominated but were beaten by far inferior films and classic films that failed to secure a single nomination.

As the 2024 Oscars approach, weve run through 21 brilliant films that you would have expected to have won Best Picture winner  but didnt.

Citizen Kane (1941)

Long revered as one of the greatest films ever made, Orson Welles debut  a film following newspaper tycoon Charles Foster Kane  was just another nominee back in the day, losing out to the admittedly brilliant How Green Was My Valley.

The Searchers (1956)

The Searchers may be considered John Fords greatest film, but it was not treated as such back in the 1950s. In fact, the western starring John Wayne failed to earn a single nomination. Around the World in 80 Days turned out to be more the Academys cup of tea.

Vertigo (1958)

The fact that Alfred Hitchcock never won a Best Director Oscar, despite receiving five nominations, is criminal. But the fact that his classicVertigo, which won Sight & Sounds once-a-decade greatest films of all time poll in 2012, never even got a Best Picture nomination is simply outrageous. Vincente Minnellis strangely throwaway musical Gigi took home that years trophy.

open image in gallery James stewart and Kim Novak in Vertigo ( BFI )

The Graduate (1967)

One of the films that kickstarted the New Hollywood Cinema era, The Graduate may have won director Mike Nichols an Oscar, but it ultimately lost out to Norman Jewisons In the Heat of the Night.

2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

Stanley Kubricks sci-fi classic remains one of the most influential pieces of cinema there is. The Academy didnt agree. The Academy nominated Kubrick for Best Director and awarded the visual effects in favour of considering 2001 for Best Picture (it didnt even get nominated). That years winner was Oliver!, the musical by Carol Reed.

Taxi Driver (1976)

Despite Taxi Drivers failure to win the main award, its nomination in four categories showed the Academy had good intentions. That All the Presidents Men and Network also lost out to eventual winner Rocky shows that, ultimately, it never really stood a chance.

open image in gallery Robert De Niro in Taxi Driver ( Columbia Pictures )

Apocalypse Now (1979)

Francis Ford Coppolas ambitious Vietnam War epic Apocalypse Now received a grand total of eight nominations, but only went home with two prizes (for cinematography and sound) losing out to drama Kramer vs Kramer.

Raging Bull (1980)

Of all the Oscar blows dealt to Martin Scorsese over the decades, none landed harder than Raging Bull losing out to Robert Redfords weepie Ordinary People, an oversight many consider one of the Academys most egregious.

Do the Right Thing (1989)

Spike Lees Do the Right Thing failing to win Best Picture at the 1990 Oscars is one thing  losing out to Driving Miss Daisy is another thing altogether.

open image in gallery Spike Lees Do the Right Thing ( Universal Pictures )

Goodfellas (1990)

Having awarded both The Godfather and The Godfather Part II Best Picture in 1972 and 1974 respectively, the Academy seemed destined to appreciate Martin Scorseses Goodfellas. But no  Kevin Costners directorial debut Dances with Wolves was the most appealing choice for voters.

Pulp Fiction (1994)

New talent on the block Quentin Tarantinos second feature Pulp Fiction won him the coveted Palme dOr at Cannes in 1994  a success he failed to match back on home turf. While he won an Original Screenplay Oscar, his film was beaten by Forrest Gump...

The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

...and it wasnt the only one. Frank Darabonts adaptation of Stephen Kings prison-set novella The Shawshank Redemption also fell victim to Robert Zemeckis Oscar-friendly Forrest Gump. We dont see that film sitting atop the IMDb top 250 though, do we?

open image in gallery Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins in The Shawshank Redemption ( Warner Bros )

Heat (1995)

If Heat was released today, theres no way it wouldnt be a Best Picture frontrunner. That it was completely ignored in favour of Braveheart is a huge travesty.

Fargo (1996)

You may think it was remiss of the Academy to shun Fargo, but it did come pretty close to winning, its chances bolstered somewhat by seven nominations and two wins (Actress for Frances McDormand and Original Screenplay for the Coen Brothers). It lost out to The English Patient.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Having won Best Director five years previous for Schindlers List, Steven Spielberg was strongly expected to take home the top prizes for his Second World War epic. Cue Shakespeare In Love upsetting everybody.

open image in gallery Steven Spielbergs Saving Private Ryan ( Paramount )

We Need to Talk About Kevin (2011)

Lynne Ramsay has directed two films that would have been deserving of Best Picture: You Were Never Really Here and this, We Need to Talk About Kevin. Its easy to see why Hollywood was temporarily more charmed by The Artist, but its clear which film will stand the test of time.

Inside Llewyn Davis (2013)

Its almost unthinkable to recall that the Coen brothers Inside Llewyn Davis only scored two Oscar nominations in the cinematography and sound mixing categories, respectively. In the ensuing years, the film has been hailed as one of the greatest of the 2010s, meaning that its no-show at the Oscars will go down as one of the Academys biggest omissions. Still, it would have had a hard time winning over 12 Years a Slave.

Boyhood (2014)

For the 2015 Oscars race, you were either team Birdman or team Boyhood. Richard Linklaters labour of love, shot intermittently over 12 years, ultimately failed to win.

open image in gallery Richard Linklaters Boyhood ( Universal )

American Honey (2016)

If theres any justice, Andrea Arnold will one day become an Oscar winner, but in a perfect world, she would have already won for American Honey, a drama deserving of Best Picture if there ever was one.

Get Out (2017)

Horror rarely gets recognised at the Oscars, but Get Out is the closest the genre had come in years. Jordan Peele may have taken home the Best Original Screenplay award, but the stars aligned for Guillermo del Toros fantasy The Shape of Water instead.

Roma (2018)

Roma was strongly expected to become the first ever foreign language film to win Best Picture. It had everything going for it, including a standout festival run and universal acclaim. But then Green Book snatched its trophy away in a late stage awards season twist that still seems too ridiculous to be true.
Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Coronation Street star Charlie Lawson has said its not going awfully well after being sent to hospital.

The actor played Jim McDonald for 11 years on the ITV soap, which has been hit with a wave of cast departures this year.

Lawson, 65, was undergoing tests after having several falls at home when a physiotherapist informed him he should go to the hospital.

The actor announced the news on his social media page, telling his fans: Hi folks, went to physio this morning and she sent me straight to A&E, which I did.

They examined me. I have an MRI scan and Im sitting waiting for the results.

He said that he has been whisked back in for more examinations, stating: Its not going awfully well at the moment, dear folks.

Lawson assured his fans he would keep them updated, with the Northern Irish star adding: They put a wristband on me and all sorts of craic.

The actor first appeared in Coronation Street as Jim in 1989, remaining a full-time cast member until 2000.

He has returned for sporadic appearances in the past 25 years, including for the shows 50th anniversary in 2010. He remained on the cobbles for a further four months and returned three years later for another three months.

Lawson, whose character Jim was married to Liz (Beverley Callard), next returned to the soap in September 2018.

Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.

Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.

Corrie fans wished him a speedy recovery on X/Twitter.

open image in gallery Coronation Street star Charlie Lawson shares video from hospital ( X/@charlie_lawson1 )

One wrote: Sounds like youre in the right place! Hopefully theyll sort you out quickly. Another replied: If youve been falling over, youre in the right place. Theyll have you up and about in no time. Be well soon.

Fans of the ITV soap were left stunned this week by the death of character Julie Carp. who has been played by Katy Cavanagh since 2008.

The scene reduced fans into blubbering messes  and arrived hot on the heels of the departure of Rovers Return barmaid Daisy Midgeley (Charlotte Jordan) just one week before.

Daisy had become a fan favourite since her debut in 2020, but Jordan asked to leave the soap in April 2024, which gave writers time to prepare a storyline for her exit.

She said of her decision to leave: My time at Coronation Street is something Ill always cherish.

open image in gallery Charlotte Jordan, who played Daisy Midgeley, has left Coronation Street ( ITV )

After a brilliant four years for Daisy, its time for me to start a new chapter and explore other opportunities.

The actor, who won a British Soap Award for the role in 2023, added: Its been a privilege to be part of a wonderful institution with even more wonderful colleagues who have taught me so much.

She won the prize for Best Dramatic Performance after a storyline that saw her character become the victim of a wedding day acid attack.
Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

JK Rowling has said she would never get an actor fired from the new Harry Potter TV series because of their pro-trans views.

Paapa Essiedu, who has been cast as Severeus Snape in the forthcoming HBO project, is among the hundreds of TV and film professionals who signed a letter calling for industry action on trans rights.

The letter was compiled in the wake of the controversial UK Supreme Court ruling that gender is legally based on biological sex, a decision that was celebrated by controversial author Rowling and decried by LGBT+ activist groups.

HBOs Harry Potter TV series has divided fans and stars of the Wizarding World franchise due to what many people say is Rowlings history of transphobic rhetoric. Although the series is yet to start production, there is already a growing backlash, with many questioning those involved over their stance on the trans community.

After Essiedus appearance as a signatory on the letter, an insider told MailOnline that Rowling would not be bothered one iota by Essiedus decision  and wouldnt dream of intervening to get him sacked, despite being heavily involved in the project.

Addressing this report X/Twitter, Rowling wrote: I dont have the power to sack an actor from the series and I wouldnt exercise it if I did.

I dont believe in taking away peoples jobs or livelihoods because they hold legally protected beliefs that differ from mine.

open image in gallery JK Rowling addressed claims she could get actors fired from new Harry Potter show ( X/Twitter )

Rowling was a vocal supporter of the Supreme Court ruling on 17 April. Moments after the decision, she posted on X, I love it when a plan comes together #SupremeCourt #WomensRights, alongside a photo of herself on a yacht, smoking a cigar and holding a cocktail.

The new letter has amassed more than 400 signatures, and states that the court ruling undermines and threatens the safety of trans, non-binary and intersex people living in the UK and excludes them from participation in everyday life.

Film and television are powerful tools for empathy and education, and we believe passionately in the ability of the screen to change hearts and minds. This is our opportunity to be on the right side of history, the letter reads.

open image in gallery JK Rowling celebrated the UK supreme court ruling against trans community ( YouTube )

Other stars to have signed the letter include Nicola Coughlan (Bridgerton), Bella Ramsey (The Last of Us), James Norton (Happy Valley) and Eddie Redmayne, who played the lead in Rowlings Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them franchise.

This isnt the first time Harry Potter stars have expressed support for the trans community, with original film stars Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson among those who have spoken out on the subject.

Rowling has become ostracised from the former child actors due to her views on trans rights  and she previously said she would not forgive the actors for criticising her opinions, telling them to save their apologies.

Despite Essiedu signing the letter, his decision to join a new Potter project has not sat well with many fans amid Rowlings views on trans issues.

open image in gallery Paapa Essiedu signed a pro-trans open letter after being cast in new Harry Potter series ( Sky )

On Reddit, one user accused Essiedu of having his cake and eating it too. Another wrote: I know one other thing you can do to support trans people, Paapa.

Meanwhile, John Lithgow, who will play Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore in the show, responded to the fallout, calling it odd, adding that discourse surrounding Rowlings views on trans issues shouldnt be a factor at all.
Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

John Oliver shared his honest thoughts on whether Saturday Night Live is capable of resonating with viewers in a different country.

On Monday, the Last Week Tonight host was interviewed by Seth Meyers on his eponymous Late Night show, where Oliver admitted that a U.K. version of the beloved comedy sketch show would be a terrible idea.

We have had sketch comedy before, and I just feel like something like this is such a unique group, the British comedian told Meyers, who was previously a cast member on SNL.

Its a cult. Im trying to not say the word  its a cult, Oliver continued. And so, I dont know how you can impose that cult onto the U.K.

When Meyers then asked what made SNL seem like a cult, Oliver responded candidly about the cast members tradition of staying up all night to rehearse.

Im saying thats the kind of thing a cult leader would make you do, Oliver said. We stay up all night on Tuesdays, by the way!

I dont know how you can impose that cult onto the U.K., Oliver said ( AFP via Getty Images )

He then acknowledged that other comedy shows are made without having their workers spend 24 hours without sleeping. I think its been proven that SNL is the outlier, he said. It doesnt have to be dictated to the day that you must not sleep on that day or the great leader will be irritated.

Sky first announced last month that it would bring a British version of the long-running show to audiences in the U.K. and Ireland, marking the first time the program will be produced outside the United States.

The British version will retain the originals signature style  it will be aired live late at night and feature a rotating roster of celebrity hosts, musical guests, and a regular cast of top British comedic talent.

Hosts will open each show with a new variation of the shows signature catchphrase: Live from London  its Saturday night!

The American series has been on air since 1975 and has welcomed a long list of high-profile hosts over the decades, including Drew Barrymore, Taylor Swift, and Tom Hanks.

Across its nearly 50-year run, Saturday Night Live has also established a so-called Five-Timers Club  a nod to those who have hosted at least five times.

The comedy sketch show has also won more Emmy awards than any other show in history and is credited with launching the careers of Bill Murray, Eddie Murphy, Will Ferrell, and Tina Fey, among others.

The U.K. debut of the show will be executive produced by SNL creator Lorne Michaels, who will continue to oversee the U.S. version simultaneously. Production will be handled by Broadway Video and Universal Television Alternative Studios U.K. team.
Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Boardwalk Empire actor Michael Pitt has been arrested in New York on sexual abuse charges.

Pitt was arrested May 2. Charges against him include two counts of first-degree sexual abuse, assault injury with a blunt object, and second-degree strangulation.

The charges stem from four alleged domestic disputes involving his ex-girlfriend that occurred between April 2020 and August 2021, according to the New York Post.

Pitt pleaded not guilty to all charges against him. He was released after posting $15,000 bail, the Post reported. Hes slated to appear in court June 17.

In the four separate incidents, Pitt allegedly sexually assaulted and attacked his ex-girlfriend with a cement block and chunk of wood at his Brooklyn home, according to records obtained by the Post. He then allegedly strangled her in August 2021.

Attorney Jason Goldman told The Independent: Unfortunately, we live in a world where somebody like Mr. Pitt  an accomplished professional who would never so much as contemplate these crimes  can be arrested on the uncorroborated word of an unhinged individual. In reality, this baseless claim is suspiciously raised some four or five years after the alleged incident, at a time when the two parties were in a completely consensual and voluntary relationship. This case will be dismissed.

Michael Pitt has been arrested on sexual abuse charges ( Lila Seeley/Getty Images )

Pitt was previously arrested in 2022 and hit with assault and petty larceny charges for allegedly hitting a man and taking his cell phone.

He was reportedly hospitalized later that year after throwing items at people from the roof of a building, according to the Post.

In addition to his work on Boardwalk Empire, Pitt is known for playing Henry Parker on 15 episodes of Dawsons Creek between 1999 and 2000.

His film credits include Hedwig and the Angry Inch, The Dreamers, and Last Days. He also appeared in Ghost in the Shell opposite Scarlett Johansson.

In 2023, Pitt starred in several films, including Asphalt City, Reptile and Day of the Fight.

Pitt is also slated to appear in three upcoming projects, including the true crime drama You Can't Win, adapted from outlaw Jack Blacks 1926 memoir. Pitt will star as Black.
Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A Nashville-based company is recalling cases of its baked beans inspired by the television show Yellowstone because they may contain an unlisted ingredient that could pose life-threatening risks to some consumers.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Monday that Vietti Food Group was recalling its Yellowstone Brown Sugar Molasses Baked Beans because it may contain soy, a known allergen not disclosed on the label. Soy can trigger severe or potentially fatal allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

The recall includes 4,515 cases of the 15-ounce cans of beans with best-by dates of February 17, 2028, printed on the bottom of the can.

According to the FDAs report, the cases of beans were distributed to retailers in Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, and Virginia.

There have currently been no reported illnesses as a result of the labeling error. Customers who have purchased the recalled cans of baked beans are urged to return them in exchange for a full refund.

open image in gallery The baked beans may contain soy, which is not listed on the label ( FDA )

For fans of Taylor Sheridan's hit cowboy drama, which follows the ranch-owning Dutton family (led by Kevin Costner), the show offers a range of food products such as canned chili, bacon, and barbecue sauces.

The Yellowstone food site, which allows avid watchers of the show to purchase other themed merchandise, promises an immersive culinary experience that invites you to savor the essence of the series and taste its flavors firsthand.

Other items offered include coffee, costing $12.99 on Amazon, and Yellowstone dishes sold at Walmart for $50 per set. The dishes are color-coded based on characters from the show.

open image in gallery Kevin Costner as John Dutton in Yellowstone ( Paramount )

The news of the baked beans recall comes a few days after tomatoes were recalled across the country due to a possible salmonella risk.

Ray & Mascari Inc, announced the recall of its four packs of Vine Ripe tomatoes on May 2, followed by the FDAs notice the next day.

Potentially affected tomatoes were packaged in plastic cartons and had a VINE RIPE TOMATOES label that read Packed by Ray & Mascari Inc.

The tomatoes were shipped to stores in New York, Illinois, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

No illnesses have been reported.

Customers in possession of the affected tomatoes are urged to throw them out, as salmonella can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, nausea, and vomiting.
Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Colin Firths ex-wife Livia Guiggioli says she doesnt miss being in the spotlight after her divorce.

In a new interview with Hello! Magazine, the 55-year-old eco-activist, who was married to the Bridget Joness Diary star for 22 years, opened up about the happiness shes enjoyed since splitting from Firth, 64, in 2019 and leaving fame behind for life on an Italian farm.

I don't miss any of it, she said of her time in the spotlight. Sometimes I look at my incredible high heels, gowns and clutches and think, I will never wear them again, and I can't remember who that person was.

Ive had so many lives; I was producing documentaries, then I married this English man who became a famous actor, and we grew a family, Guiggioli continued. Then we happened to be at the Oscars, meeting all these crazy people. It's funny how each moment of your life, at the time, becomes your reality.

Guiggioli was just 25 years old when she first met Firth. At the time, she was working as a production assistant on the set of the 1996 BBC series, Nostromo. The two went full speed ahead with their romance, tying the knot a year after their initial introduction.

During their decades-long marriage, they welcomed two sons: Luca, 24, and Matteo, 22.

Guiggioli and Firth briefly split in 2015, during which she had an affair with Italian journalist Marco Brancaccia. However, their permanent separation didnt come until December 2019.

Colin Firths ex-wife of 22 years, Livia Guiggioli, says she doesnt miss living in Hollywood ( Getty )

While the former pair havent been romantically involved for years, they remain close. In fact, Guiggioli told Hello! Magazine that they are still always together.

Colin and I have a wonderful relationship. We have worked on that a lot, and in keeping the family together. I have a partner; he has a partner and were all together all the time. Its an extended, crazy family, she said.

Guiggioli went on to add that Firth and her new partner, Scottish climate activist Callum Grieve, get along as well.

She noted: Colin and Callum are good friends and theyre both huge Arsenal supporters. Arsenal is a big theme in our family.

Firth has been in a relationship with TV writer Maggie Cohn since 2022, after meeting on the set of HBOs drama The Staircase.

As for what shes been doing since the divorce, Guiggioli has joined her two brothers, Alessandro and Nicola, in managing Quintosapore, a sustainable farming business that sells a range of fresh cooking products. The farm is located in Citta della Pieve, on the border of Umbria and Tuscany.

Guiggioli previously discussed her move out of the glamour-steeped life she once lived in an interview with The Sunday Times in February.

Colin is very private, so we always separated public life from our life, she said. When you take that approach, you become like an avatar. You go there, you do it, you call your mum to say you saw George Clooney but your real life has nothing to do with that. So when you dont have it any more, its actually much nicer, because it was never you in the first place.
Its official  Americans spent the same amount of money on weight loss injections as the countrys entire foreign aid budget in 2023. According to a study by the American Medical Association and the Centers for Disease Control, the figure spent on GLP-1 drugs  so named because they mimic the effects of a naturally occurring hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 to lower blood sugar  hit a staggering $71bn. In the UK, research released in January 2025 and reported by the Telegraph revealed that more than one in 10 women are on the jabs in total, while an estimated 500,000 people are signed up to Mounjaro or Wegovy on a private prescription.

As the takeup of these drugs, acquired via both the NHS and off-label prescriptions, continues on an ever-upward trajectory, more concerns are being raised about potential long-term side effects. A possible link with a deterioration in bone health and skeletal muscle mass has been flagged, with Dr Doug Lucas, a trauma and orthopaedic surgeon and director of education and training for Screen My Bones, calling it potentially catastrophic and frightening. Meanwhile, a large-scale study found that those taking GLP-1s were nearly 2.5 times more likely to develop drug-induced acute pancreatitis, a serious condition where the pancreas becomes inflamed.

Now, another warning has raised its head. Forget Ozempic face, the colloquial term for ageing and sagging facial skin, deepened lines or hollowed cheeks associated with rapid weight loss  should we be worrying about the even more unpleasant-sounding Ozempic teeth?

First off, its important to note that the moniker is misleading. Ozempic, a specific brand of the drug semaglutide, often gets used as the shorthand for all GLP-1s  primarily because its the most well-known name thats dominated media coverage since the rapid rise in jabs popularity. But in the UK, its not licensed for weight loss, only the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Semaglutide is available for private prescription for weight loss under the Wegovy brand, alongside two other GLP-1s: Mounjaro (a brand of tirzepatide) and Saxenda (a brand of liraglutide).

All these drugs come with potential side effects, some of which could have consequences on oral health  hence the nicknames Ozempic teeth and Ozempic mouth. Research is in its infancy, and the long-term ramifications are yet to be established; as with other health outcomes and GLP-1s, the data simply isnt there yet, according to the British Dental Association (BDA). With these drugs, the long-term dental data is missing, so its premature to consider Ozempic mouth as a definite thing, explains the BDAs scientific adviser, Dr Praveen Sharma, an associate professor and honorary consultant in restorative dentistry at the University of Birmingham.

Similarly, in an article penned by dental hygienist Anne Symons and published in the British Dental Nurses Journal (BDNJ), she outlines that there is not sufficient evidence to suggest that semaglutide solutions such as Ozempic or Wegovy have a direct connection to oral health. However, common side effects and impacts can have knock-on effects and must be considered, she continues. Sharma also acknowledges the connection between the mouth and body. Data or no, the fairly common side effect of xerostomia, aka dry mouth, has been noted by users. Saliva plays a vital role in maintaining the health of our teeth and gums, so a reduction in the salivary flow would, in theory at least, have a detrimental effect on the oral cavity, concludes Sharma.

Novo Nordisk, which manufactures Ozempic, Wegovy and Saxenda, and Eli Lilly, which manufactures Mounjaro, both stress that patient safety is their top priority, and that they actively collect, monitor and report safety data and information on their medicines, including reports of adverse drug reactions.

open image in gallery Some dental professionals have raised concerns over weight loss jabs side effects that could impact oral health ( Getty )

Wider awareness seems to be growing around potential oral issues, with Google Trends data showing that searches for Ozempic teeth have nearly doubled over the past week. Dr Tim Bradstock-Smith, founder and principal dentist at The London Smile Clinic, says that as more patients turn to medications like Ozempic, hes seeing a new set of oral and facial health considerations  commonly referred to as Ozempic mouth and Ozempic face. Although so far the practice has only observed mild oral symptoms, he says that some patients may report suffering from dry mouth, altered taste and increased gum recession or tooth sensitivity. While the medication itself isnt directly harmful to the teeth, side effects  particularly dry mouth  can heighten the risk of decay, enamel erosion, and gum disease if not carefully managed, he adds.

Dr Sofina Ahmed from Viva Dental has raised a number of different oral health issues that could be provoked by GLP-1s, some expected and others more surprising. On top of dry mouth, she also highlights the risk of increased tooth sensitivity. Many weight loss injectable users report heightened pain and tenderness when consuming cold, hot, and sweet foods, she says. If not treated correctly, this may cause enamel erosion or receding gums, which take back the inner layers of the tooth, making it more sensitive.

Ahmed also warns of potential receding gums as they shrink in line with rapid weight loss, alongside fat pads in the cheeks and around the jawline. This loss of overall structure can impact how dentures or veneers fit, leading to long-term functional and cosmetic dental problems, she adds.

Bad breath is another known side effect of weight loss injections, leading to the term Ozempic breath gaining traction. Symons cites a study on animals, which found that GLP-1s slowed digestion, leading to the creation of volatile sulphur compounds produced by gut bacteria. These play a significant role in malodorous gas production, she said. Professionals may be able to help by recommending or providing oral hygiene adjuncts that mask and eliminate the odour, such as an effective mouthwash.

Side effects such as dry mouth can heighten the risk of decay, enamel erosion, and gum disease Dr Tim Bradstock-Smith, founder and principal dentist at The London Smile Clinic

But one of the most troubling impacts on dental care is vomiting. Feeling nauseous and being sick are listed as possible side effects for every weight loss injection currently on the market in the UK. Research has shown that the most common adverse effects with GLP-1s are all gastrointestinal (nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea) and up to 19 per cent of people experienced vomiting as a result of taking the drugs in some trials. A study of 2.4 million Americans with type 2 diabetes published in January identified that, while those on GLP-1s had a lower risk of developing 42 different diseases, they had a higher risk of 19 side effects or diseases. One of these was nausea and vomiting: patients were 30 per cent more likely to develop these symptoms.

Throwing up regularly, as well as being distressing, can have a serious impact on the teeth. The stomach is very acidic, and if the patients are having that acid come up into their mouth, then it really is quite damaging to the teeth, says Dr Victoria Holden, a member of the British Association of Private Dentistry. So you can get a problem called dental erosion, where, literally, its like a chemical dissolution of the enamel of your teeth  it can be quite aggressive. She calls it potentially one of the more serious complications or side effects of weight loss drugs on oral health. If a patient is suffering from reflux, they should definitely be getting that looked at, because solving that problem from the point of view of rebuilding teeth that have been damaged by acids is complicated and expensive.

Holden also highlights another, more surprising consideration: nutrition. Losing weight rapidly can lead to vitamin deficiencies, she explains, adding that B12 and zinc are commonly low in patients who arent eating a lot. Making sure that those minerals and vitamins are all at the optimal levels is going to help patients in terms of symptoms of sore mouth and oral perception problems  the bad sensory changes that they get in the mouth.

For those on weight loss or diabetes injections who have noticed oral side effects  whether it be dry mouth, reflux, halitosis (bad breath) or heightened tooth sensitivity  Holden recommends consulting with your dentist, and always informing them if youve started on a new medication. All of the experts stress the importance of staying well hydrated, specifically drinking lots of water (and avoiding acidic drinks), to combat ill effects; dry mouth can also be treated with saliva substitutes, such as lozenges, gums or sprays. Avoid acidic, sugary foods or overly processed snacks that can cause enamel erosion and harmful bacteria, recommends Ahmed. Instead, try crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and celery to help with natural cleaning and saliva flow.

open image in gallery Patients are advised to consult their dentist if they experience side effects such as dry mouth ( Getty )

Ultimately, GLP-1s can have huge health benefits for plenty of users, including reducing the risk of cardiac arrest and increasing life expectancy. As Bradstock-Smith puts it, In our experience, the overall health benefits of these medications often outweigh the manageable side effects when addressed with the right care.

But Holden is hopeful that at some point medical practitioners will join the dots and take a more holistic approach when prescribing Ozempic et al. Theres a route for the medical field  that doctors or people who are prescribing these drugs to comment to patients that they should see the dentist or the hygienist before starting treatment, she says. Theres already precedent for this; dentists began noticing that patients who were taking bisphosphonate drugs, prescribed for people with bone problems like osteoporosis and some types of cancers, werent healing well after tooth extractions.

Many weight loss injectable users report heightened pain and tenderness when consuming cold, hot, and sweet foods Dr Sofina Ahmed

Weve gone from a bit of denial in the medical field about there being a problem with that to patients now being actively encouraged to see the dentist before they start a programme, adds Holden. And if weve got a similar thing going on with Ozempic, where potentially the outcomes can be quite damaging to the teeth and gum condition, and we know about it beforehand, we can check that the patients are in optimum dental health before problems arise.

A Novo Nordisk spokesperson tells The Independent: We recommend patients take these medications for their approved indications and under the supervision of a healthcare professional, adding, We recommend that any patient experiencing side effects while taking GLP-1 receptor agonists including Wegovy and Ozempic (semaglutide injection) report them to their healthcare provider and via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme: yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

An Eli Lilly spokesperson advised: Mounjaro should only be used when prescribed by a healthcare professional, and prescriptions should be fulfilled and supplied by registered pharmacies and providers. We encourage patients to consult their doctor or other healthcare professional to discuss any possible side effects they may be experiencing and to ensure that they are getting genuine Lilly medicine.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A woman who accused former Bachelor star Clayton Echard of impregnating her has been indicted in Arizona on a slew of felony fraud charges after investigators found that her claims were not true and that she had gone to extreme lengths to manipulate him.

Laura Owens, 34, had originally filed a paternity suit against Echard in 2023, seeking child support, alleging that she had become pregnant with twins, the Maricopa County Attorneys Office said in a news release on Tuesday.

Echard, who was a contestant on The Bachelorette in 2021 and then selected to star as The Bachelor in 2022, denied Owens allegations.

He stated that their brief encounter was limited to oral sex and did not involve intercourse, according to the indictment.

Owens then dropped her claim, alleging shed had a miscarriage. Her testimony was brought into question by Judge Julie Mata of Maricopa County Superior Court after Owens made several inconsistent statements during a paternity hearing involving Echard, according to the indictment.

Former Bachelor star Clayton Echard and Laura Owens ( Getty/Facebook )

Fighting back against the ruling, Owens argued that she had provided positive at-home pregnancy tests, a urine test from an urgent care facility and a blood test from a lab, the San Francisco Chronicle reported.

She also accused the judge of being influenced by Echard's celebrity status.

It seems clear to me that Judge Mata would not have allowed this case to go on if Clayton had not been a former Bachelor star, Owens wrote. Because Clayton had a high-profile status, Judge Mata seemed determined to drag this case out.

But Judge Mata, who deemed Owens claims as fraudulent and baseless, accused the woman of a pattern of deception, and then awarded Echard attorneys' fees and referred the case for criminal prosecution by the county attorneys office in 2024.

Investigators found that between May 2023 and June 2024, Owens had fabricated key evidence, including altering a sonogram and creating a fake pregnancy video. She was also found to have lied several times under oath, investigators said.

Prosecutors allege Owens had carried out a deliberate plan to defraud Echard by faking her pregnancy and this week, a grand jury indicted Owens on one count of fraudulent schemes, one count of forgery, four counts of perjury and one count of tampering with physical evidence.

Owens has not yet publicly commented on the indictment, but Echard responded to the news on Instagram, thanking God for the decision by the grand jury and saying this nightmare is finally over.

Justice has finally been served!! he wrote in the caption of the Instagram reel. Thank you all for your continued support in helping me seek justice. It has been a long, tiresome road, but we have reached the end point of where we hoped to be. Its nothing but celebratory dance moves for the foreseeable future from here on out.

In the video, Echard also thanked Rachel Mitchell, the Maricopa County Attorney, and the investigators for serving up justice.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

GoFundMe has removed all fundraisers supporting an Ohio father accused of killing a sheriffs deputy after more than 20,000 members of the states law enforcement community complained.

Jay McDonald, President of the Ohio Fraternal Order of Police, sent a letter to GoFundMe on Tuesday afternoon, calling the fundraisers "absolutely outrageous" and accusing Rodney Hinton Jr of "the assassination of a law enforcement officer, WCPO reports.

Hinton Jr allegedly ran over and killed a Hamilton County sheriff's deputy near the University of Cincinnati a day after his teenage son was shot and killed by a Cincinnati police officer.

The younger Hinton had allegedly stolen a car and was shot and killed while he and three others tried to evade police. The Cincinnati Police Department is claiming that the teenage Hinton was armed at the time he was shot.

In police body-camera footage obtained by NBC News, an officer is seen exiting his vehicle and aiming a firearm at the teenager as he runs away. The officer fired at least four shots, the police chief said, and Hinton fell to the ground.

Rodney Hinton Jr, 38, is accused of running over and killing a Hamilton County Sheriff's Deputy the day after his son, Ryan Hinton, 18, was shot and killed by Cincinnati police officers ( Hamilton County Sheriff's Office )

The footage does not clearly show whether the 18-year-old brandished his gun toward police.

Authorities believe Hinton was struck by two bullets in the chest and arm. After firing the rounds, an officer can be heard instructing the teen to Get the f*** down.

Hinton's father, Hinton Jr, reportedly saw the body cam footage of an officer shooting and killing his son, in the hours before he allegedly ran over and killed a sheriff's deputy.

The deputy that Hinton Jr allegedly hit and killed, Deputy Larry Henderson, was reportedly retired and was directing traffic when he was hit.

After the incident, fundraisers started popping up on GoFundMe to support Hinton Jr, presumably for his legal defense and for losing his son.

According to the letter from McDonald, the most active of the fundraisers had brought in more than $5,000 for Hinton Jr.

"To allow fundraisers for a cop killer is just over the line," McDonald insisted.

GoFundMe responded to the letter hours later. The fundraising sites director of policy and engagement wrote back apologizing for the fundraisers for the loss of the deputy, according to Cincinnati FOP President Ken Kober, who spoke to WCPO.

"I was more than appreciative to see not only did they take it down, but they said, 'Listen, we're sorry what happened to this deputy,' and they gave their condolences," Kober said.

The GoFundMe official said that the sites policies prohibit the use of its platform for fundraisers aimed at helping individuals accused of violent crimes.

"I can assure you that there will be zero tolerance for this kind of behavior on our platform," GoFundMe's director of policy and engagement said in her statement. "Once again, Deputy Henderson and his family are in our thoughts and prayers."

The platform also had to remove similar support fundraisers for Luigi Mangione, who is accused of shooting and killing United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson late last year.

Hinton Jr has been charged with aggravated murder, according to WLWT.
Nokia has signed a deal with Danish shipping giant Maersk to deploy private wireless network solutions across 450 vessels in its fleet.

In a statement, the network equipment vendor described the deployment as a critical step in enabling Maersks OneWireless IoT connectivity platform. The platform will offer benefits such as real-time cargo tracking, enhanced supply chain visibility, and improved operational efficiency for Maersks customers.

Maersk is seeking to overcome limitations of its existing onboard infrastructure - both on its own and chartered vessels - to boost scalability and future-proof its connectivity capabilities.

Nokias radio solutions will support a wide range of IoT devices, enabling secure interoperability between private and public networks. This will ensure reliable monitoring of cargo across sea, land, and ports. One cited use case is real-time temperature tracking of perishable goods, such as fruits and vegetables.

With our next-generation connectivity platform, we will be able to offer our customers notable benefits, including real-time cargo tracking, enhanced supply chain visibility, and improved operational efficiency, said Kjeld Dittmann, Head of Vessel & Cargo Connectivity at Maersk. This platform is designed to support thousands of IoT devices, ensuring optimal performance for reefer tracking and fleet IoT.

Tommi Uitto, President of Mobile Networks at Nokia, added: Nokias leadership in private wireless goes far beyond connectivity, as demonstrated by this major new contract with Maersk. Our Radio Access portfolio and MantaRay network management solution will deliver reliable, real-time, and future-ready mobile networks to optimize Maersks marine operations. We look forward to working closely with them on this important project.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

The man suspected of ploughing his car through the gates of Jennifer Anistons sprawling Bel Air mansion repeatedly posted on Facebook about the Friends star being his bride.

Jimmy Wayne Carwyle, 48, was arrested on suspicion of felony vandalism, accused of driving a gray Chrysler PT Cruiser into the barriers of Anistons 10,000 square-foot home at about 12.20 p.m. Monday.

Multiple reports indicate that the 56-year-old actress was home at the time of the incident but was not hurt.

Anistons private security guards allegedly hauled the suspect out of the car following the crash, a Los Angeles Police Department spokesperson told The Independent Monday. He was held at gunpoint until police took him into custody, according to TMZ.

LAPD sources told the outlet that they were investigating the incident as a possible stalking situation, with officers combing through social media posts posted from Carwyles account.

Prior to the arrest, a public Facebook page believed to be connected to Carwyle had dozens of cryptic posts in which he claimed that Aniston was his wife.

open image in gallery The scene outside Jennifer Anistons home on May 5, 2025 after a man crashed outside the front gate ( Mega/Getty )

Ive been writing, since the Beginning Jennifer Joanna Aniston Carwyle, with you, Carwyle wrote on Facebook in March, citing her middle name.

Another March post on the account read: They Amaze me, packing so much love in such a small package, Known as Jennifer Joanna Aniston Carwyle.

In June last year, Carwyle shared a typed-out letter on Facebook stating that he and Aniston shared a child.

Jen, My Beautiful Wife, it began. You should ACCEPT ME totally, why would you have ignored what GOD sent you, and youre going to accept me... You know me, I know you, Im about being Real, and youre still stubborn, Michael is our child.

Mrs Jennifer Joanna Carwyle, he wrote in a post from October last year, along with a photograph of Aniston, before adding in block capitals: I done that, though you had it & didnt realize it.

open image in gallery Aniston was reportedly in her property at the time of the crash on Monday but was not hurt

Also in October, Carwyle praised God for helping me get ready to see my bride Jenniffer Joanna Aniston Carwyle. In a separate post, he complained that unnamed forces were why they were being kept apart.

Bryan Adams Everything I do is for you, is from me to Jen, thats The True Meaning, I COULDNT LOSE HER!, a separate post read.

Following Monday's arrest, Steve Rhea, who identifies himself as Carwyles childhood friend, posted a message on the Facebook account linked to the suspect.

Jimmy Carwyle your finally gone get the help you need ole buddy, he said, sharing an NBC News article about the incident.

Rhea told the network that Carwyle left his native Mississippi in September to live out of his car at a Walmart Supercenter in Burbank.

Jen your homeless Husband need's a shower, Carwyle wrote alongside what appears to be a selfie in a Walmart bathroom in November.

open image in gallery Jennifer Aniston's house in the Bel-Air neighborhood of Los Angeles ( Google Earth )

Rhea said Carwyle left his well-paying job as an automobile service technician five years ago, which allegedly devolved into him having messianic delusions that he is a Christ-like figure married to Aniston.

Rhea publicly criticized Carwyles obsession with Aniston in a Facebook post in October, offering financial support to bring him home.

Dont you think its Hi-Time you realize nothing is going to materialize with Jennifer Aniston and other Actresses wanting to marry you, he wrote. Its time to come home.

I follow God, & the heart he gave me! the Carwyle account responded.

Carwyles booking was initially delayed after he was taken to the hospital complaining of back pain after slamming into the gate, law enforcement sources told ABC News.

The suspect was being held in the Los Angeles County jail without bail and will make his first appearance in court on Thursday.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A Wisconsin man has been accused of killing a mother and injuring her family after he allegedly ran them over with a car in an act of alleged vigilante justice.

Jeffrey Endres, 49, allegedly accelerated in a vehicle toward the family of Dr Kami Hansen, a well-known local chiropractor, and her family in an alleged act of revenge, according to a criminal complaint released on Monday,

The incident happened in Cottage Grove, which is a suburb of Madison, Wisconsin, on April 28, around 6.30pm. Hansen, her husband, one of their sons, and the family dog were out walking when Endres allegedly crashed into the group, according to WMTV.

Hansen was reportedly thrown approximately 25 to 30 feet from where she was hit. She and the family's dog, a black pit bull, were both killed during the incident. The husband escaped with only a few cuts, but their son required surgery and suffered a concussion.

He told police at the scene that he could hear a vehicle "flooring it" toward them. Hansen's husband said the vehicle jumped the curb and hit him and his family.

Multiple eyewitnesses also reportedly told police that they saw the vehicle accelerate toward the family.

Enders reportedly stayed at the scene after the crash, and allegedly told police that he was "having a bad day" and offered "no comment" about the crash. He said he lost control of his vehicle while driving to the gas station, but an Uber driver who had been driving near Enders just before the crash allegedly told police that claim was bogus.

If hes telling you he veered off the roadway, then hes lying to you, the witness told police. I saw that vehicle jerk.

According to Deputy District Attorney William Brown, the deadly crash was no accident, but rather an act of revenge for a "sensitive crime" that allegedly occurred between Hansen's child and Endres' child. Police did not give further information about what happened.

It has come to light that this was not an accident. This was an intentional act by Mr Endres, Brown told a judge. This was, as the complaint shows, essentially an act of vigilante justice.

Endres and Hansen were neighbors until recently, according to police.

Hansen's husband acknowledged that allegations about the "sensitive crime" had been brought forward in late March.

Endres reportedly went digging for more information and opened a records request on April 23 for any police reports relating to the alleged incident.

He received a redacted police report detailing the incident on April 28, just three hours before the fatal crash.

Endres is being charged with first-degree intentional homicide, two counts of attempted first-degree intentional homicide, and mistreatment of animals causing death.

His bond was set at $1 million on Monday in the Dane County courts.

If he posts bond, he will not be allowed to have any contact with any member of the Hansen family and will be restricted from being anywhere inside Cottage Grove. He would also not be allowed to drink alcohol.

Police made Enders take a mugshot shortly after the incident while his face was still bruised and his eyes were bloodshot.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 14. If convicted of intentional homicide, Endres could face up to life in prison without the possibility of extended supervision.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A racoon has been found playing with a meth pipe in a car during a traffic stop arrest in Ohio.

Victoria Vidal, 55, from Akron, Ohio, was charged with possession of drugs, three counts of possession of drug paraphernalia, and was cited for driving under suspension, Springfield Township police said in a statement on social media Tuesday.

Officers pulled Vidal over after running her license plate and finding that she had an active warrant and a suspended drivers license.

The real surprise came when they looked in her car and observed a raccoon named Chewy sitting in the drivers seat with a meth pipe in its mouth.

Body camera footage of the traffic stop showed the moment the furry rodent was spotted fiddling with the pipe, after police removed Vidal from her vehicle.

Oh..hey, one officer in the footage was heard saying before breaking out in a fit of laughter and beckoning the second attending officer over for a look.

open image in gallery The wayward racoon was seen 'playing' with the meth pipe during the traffic stop in Ohio ( Springfield Township Police Department )

The racoon has her meth pipe! he said in disbelief.

Hes playing with her meth pipe right now!

An elderly woman who was in the car with Vidal attempted to grab the pipe from its mouth, but officers said it was needed for evidence.

open image in gallery Victoria Vidal, 55, was detained by police Monday night when they made the unexpected surprise ( Springfield Township Police Department )

I dont want him [the raccoon] to have that, the elderly woman said.

The officer who first spotted the raccoon was audibly struggling to hold it together and was heard laughing, as he watched Chewy reach for the methamphetamine pipe as he attempted to claw it from him.

All right, enough fun and games, he said to Chewy, before laughing again in shock.

Police confirmed that a search of the vehicle revealed a bulk of methamphetamine, crack cocaine and three used glass meth pipes.

open image in gallery An elderly passenger tried to snatch the pipe of the animal: I dont want him to have that! ( Springfield Township Police Department )

Chewy had somehow gotten hold of a glass methamphetamine pipe, leading officers to further inspect the vehicle, the PD post wrote Tuesday.

Police confirmed that the animal was unharmed and that authorities were alerted to check whether Vidal had the proper paperwork to own Chewy.

While our officers are trained to expect the unexpected, finding a raccoon holding a meth pipe is a first! No raccoons were hurt or injured in this incident, Springfield Township PD wrote.

open image in gallery Vidal, 55, was stopped because she had an active warrant and a suspended driver's license ( Springfield Township Police Department )

The 55-year-old will face additional charges related to crack cocaine possession at a Grand Jury pending drug lab results.

Vidal was detained and turned over to Cuyahoga Falls Police for her active warrant.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A Russian man who was given asylum in the U.S. led police in Florida on a dramatic marine chase for over an hour, after stealing a luxury yacht worth $2.5 million.

Nikolai Vilkov, who is 29 and has a North Carolina address, boarded the 68-foot vessel on Monday afternoon, before attempting the daring escape from the marina.

Officers from Martin County ground and marine units were forced to ram the yacht into nearby mangroves in order to ground it. Vilkov refused to surrender when deputies boarded the vessel, and tear gas was used to force him to come out.

He was subsequently charged with grand theft of a motor vehicle, aggravated fleeing and eluding, as well as resisting arrest without violence.

open image in gallery Nikolai Vilkov, 29, boarded the 68-foot vessel on Monday afternoon, before attempting the daring escape from the marina. He was subsequently charged with grand theft of a motor vehicle, aggravated fleeing and eluding, as well as resisting arrest without violence ( Martin County Sheriff's Office )

Despite having had previous interactions with law enforcement, Vilkov claimed he did not speak English, resulting in a Russian interpreter being brought by the Department of Homeland Security to assist with the investigation.

According to police, Vilkov was also suspected of stealing a smaller boat in Jupiter, about three miles from where he was picked up. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek described the incident as bizarre.

open image in gallery A Russian man who was given asylum in the U.S. led police in Florida on a dramatic marine chase for over an hour, after stealing a luxury yacht worth $2.5 million ( Martin County Sheriff's County )

Budensiek told reporters that Vilkov had arrived at the Lucky Shuck restaurant in Jupiter just after 1 a.m. on Monday, and parked his Tesla in a valet area.

Surveillance footage then showed him wandering in the area behind other nearby restaurants, where multiple boats are docked and stored. Shortly after 2 a.m. a TowBoat US boat's GPS came online, saying it was moving, heading north, then east before becoming stuck on a sandbar near the Jupiter Inlet.

open image in gallery Despite having had previous interactions with law enforcement, Vilkov claimed he did not speak English, resulting in a Russian interpreter being brought by the Department of Homeland Security to assist with the investigation ( Martin County Sheriff's Office )

Vilkov was met by officers shortly after 3.a.m but was not connected to the theft of the towboat.

After making his way to the Blowing Rocks Marina he reportedly spent a night sleeping on a boat that was docked there, even using a towel hanging inside  though his exact whereabouts were not confirmed.

However, just before 4 p.m., police were informed by the dockmaster that the yacht had been stolen. The resulting chase, which involved Martin County Sheriffs Office, Jupiter Island police and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission lasted for about an hour and a half.

open image in gallery Officers from Martin County ground units, marine units, and a SWAT team were forced to ram the yacht into nearby mangroves in order to ground it and apprehend the suspect ( Martin County Sheriff's Office )

Budensiek said that the yacht had been grounded after multiple smaller boats powering heavily against the side of the stolen boat, pushing it into the mangroves.

We couldnt just let that vessel careen through our county and endanger people, he said, adding that the yacht had sustained a "significant amount" of damage in the incident.

A theory for the motive is that the vessel was being moved to the Bahamas for smuggling purposes, but this has not yet been verified.

open image in gallery The sheriff added that it was unclear how Vilkov made it to Florida, but that he had arrived in Mexico in 2022, and been granted asylum through the Mexico-Texas border that December. He is currently being held without bond at the Martin County jail ( Martin County Sheriff's Office )

The sheriff added that it was unclear how Vilkov made it to Florida, but that he had arrived in Mexico in 2022, and been granted asylum through the Mexico-Texas border that December.

"He has an ICE detainer on him, and the next time he steals a vessel...it'll be back in Russia, not here in the United States," Budensiek said. "When he serves his time here, he'll be deported out of our country."

Vilkov is currently being held without bond at the Martin County jail.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

An Illinois man took a dramatic step earlier this year when a pair of alleged squatters occupied a home he owns on Chicagos South Side, temporarily moving in with the pair to deter them from staying.

"I said, 'I'm not going to leave.' Called a couple friends, stayed overnight and I knew they were not going to like that," Marco Velazquez, owner of the house, told ABC 7 Chicago.

Velazquez found out about the individuals, whom he identified as Shermaine C. Powell and Codarro T. Dorsey, when his realtor visited the property and allegedly discovered the pair inside.

The realtor captured video of the couple telling police they paid into a mortgage on the property and had a right to be there, according to Velazquez.

Soon after spending the night in the living room, watching the alleged squatters hide out in a bedroom, Velazquez said he came to realize the individuals wouldnt be pressured to leave and that a court-ordered eviction could take months.

Velazquez says Powell and Dorsey presented police with a mortgage document not found on record with Cook County, and that he later reached a legal agreement to pay the pair $4,300 to leave the property by March 5.

open image in gallery Marco Velazquez says he moved home that had been occupied by alleged squatters ( ABC7 Chicago )

The property owner said Chicago police are working on the case and told him Powell was the same individual arrested earlier this month and accused of a similar Chicago-area squatting scheme featuring a mortgage document.

"We didn't want to give them money, but we heard really bad stories about squatters taking over properties for six, eight, 10 months, even a year," Velazquez told the station.

Powell, for her part, told ABC 7 she is "innocent until proven guilty."

The Independent has contacted the Chicago Police Department for comment, and was unable to reach Dorsey for comment.

open image in gallery Multiple local homeowners in 2025 have accused squatters of pretending to own their Chicago-area homes ( Getty Images )

Earlier this month, Illinois Senate Bill 1563, known as the Squatter Bill, advanced out of a state House of Representatives committee to head to the full chamber for approval.

"We are so much closer than we have ever been," state representative La Shawn Ford told local media of the effort.

Real estate agents have long warned of squatter scams in the Chicago area.

"They flipped over the sign. The Coldwell Banker sign it says, 'sold.' And then they changed the locks. They installed a Ring doorbell," real estate agent Airian McDuffy told Fox 32 Chicago last year of one such alleged incident.

When McDuffy approached the alleged squatters, she said they told her to Get off our property.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A Texas mother was recently arrested for allegedly starving her daughter by locking her in a closet  which led police to another shocking discovery: the girls older sister hasnt been seen for seven years.

Authorities in Austin are now looking for 9-year-old Ava Marie Gonzales, who was last seen in December 2017 when she was just 2 years old. The search began after her mother, 33-year-old Virginia Marie Gonzales, was arrested for serious injury to a child last month after Avas 7-year-old sister was found "locked in a closet and starving, Austin Police have said.

The police department is seriously concerned about Avas welfare given the circumstances in which Avas younger sibling was found on April 3, authorities said on Tuesday.

Police responded to a 911 call after the 7-year-old girl was found locked in a closet and starving, Austin Detective Russell Constable said. The childs grandmother made the call after she found the 7-year-old "malnourished, soiled and barricaded in a bedroom closet, according to the arrest warrant affidavit obtained by ABC News. The mother allegedly held her child in the closet for a month, feeding her a hot dog or corn dog in the morning and evening and half a cup of water daily, the document states.

open image in gallery Austin Police are now searching for Ava Gonzales, who went missing at 2 years old in 2017, who was discovered to be missing after her mother was arrested for allegedly starving Avas sister and locking her in a closet ( Austin Police Department )

She weighed 29 pounds when she was found and exhibited signs of malnourishment, according to the affidavit. She was immediately taken to the hospital and is currently recovering, the detective said.

Virginia was arrested on April 24 in connection to the injuries suffered by her child. Six other children were found in the house and they were all fine and didnt appear to be malnourished, police said at a Tuesday press conference. But an eighth child  Ava  was missing.

Ava is described as Hispanic with straight brown hair and brown eyes. Her height and weight are unknown, given the amount of time that has passed since anyone has seen her, police said. Authorities released photos of what they believe Ava would look like now, seven years later.

She was not reported missing by Virginia or anybody, Constable said.

open image in gallery A photo rendering what Ava is believed to look like now, at age 9 ( Austin Police Department )

Virginia is Avas last known guardian, police said.

Asked whether police have information as to whether Ava is still alive, Constable said: "We have information showing that she was born to Virginia. We just don't know where she is right now. Her father has not yet been identified, he added.

None of the children in the house were enrolled in school as far as police know, the detective added.

open image in gallery Virginia Gonzales, 33, was arrested for serious injury to a child after allegedly locking her 7-year-old daughter in a closet and 'starving' her ( Austin Police Department )

When pressed as to whether Avas family members were concerned that they havent seen her in years, Constable said Virginia has provided conflicting information to relatives concerning the childs whereabouts.

She could be anywhere at this point, he said, noting this case has been emotionally difficult.

The 33-year-old is being held behind bars on $75,000 bond, court records show. She is next scheduled to appear in court on May 16.
MTNs digital infrastructure arm Bayobab announced on Tuesday it has completed a 260-km fibre route in Uganda from Malaba to Kampala that interconnects with Bayobabs recently completed fibre route in Kenya from Malaba to Mombasa.

The new Uganda fibre route  which was constructed from December 2024 to February 2025  runs along the Uganda Railway corridor from Kampala to Tororo, with an extension to Malaba.

The route provides Uganda with a direct, low-latency link with over 1 Tbps of capacity into Kenyas broader digital infrastructure via Bayobabs fibre link  completed in August 2024  that runs along the Kenya Railways meter gauge route from Malaba and Busia to Mombasa.

Bayobab said the new Malaba-Kampala route gives Uganda the shortest and most resilient path to the KenyaUganda border and onward to Mombasas subsea cable landing stations.

Sylvia Anampiu, MD of Bayobab Kenya, said the route cements Kenyas position as a regional digital gateway.

"By interconnecting with Uganda via this high-capacity route, we are enhancing regional digital resilience, creating alternative routes for traffic, and opening new opportunities for businesses and communities along the corridor, she said in a statement.

Juliet Nsubuga, MD of Bayobab Uganda, said the Uganda fibre route connects major data centres across Uganda and Kenya and supports hyperscalers and enterprises looking to expand within the East African region.

This new route caters to the needs of international and national technology and digital players, as well as telecoms and ISPs that serve communities, demonstrating our commitment to connecting Africa, she said.
Prison Enterprises, the for-profit arm of the Louisiana Department of Corrections that uses inmate labor in various businesses, was scrutinized for the second time in two decades by the state Legislative Auditor's office, finding some of the same issues have lingered.
Amazon announced it will invest $4 billion to build cloud infrastructure for its Amazon Web Services (AWS) division in Chile by the end of 2026.

The new AWS Region - Amazons third in Latin America after Brazil and Mexico - will allow governments, enterprises, and startups to access local data centres to run applications and serve end users with lower latency and greater efficiency, the company said in a statement.

The US tech giant will construct, connect, operate, and maintain the data centres in Chile as part of the expansion.

At launch, the AWS Region (cluster of data centres) in Chile will consist of three Availability Zones, adding to AWSs existing 114 Availability Zones across 36 Regions worldwide.

AWS also plans to launch 16 additional Availability Zones and five new Regions in Chile, New Zealand, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, and the AWS European Sovereign Cloud.

Prasad Kalyanaraman, AWS Vice President of Infrastructure Services, said the new infrastructure will help companies across Latin America adopt technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to accelerate growth and improve productivity. It will also support the fast-growing demand for cloud services across Latin America and in Chile with secure, reliable, and efficient cloud infrastructure.

Chiles Minister of Science, Technology, Knowledge and Innovation, Aisen Etcheverry Escudero, welcomed the investment, stating: AWSs infrastructure expansion in Chile is a clear example of the countrys commitment to advanced technology and innovation, and to the work weve done to create an environment where technology companies can thrive, with the National Data Center Plan leading the way.

This investment demonstrates clear confidence in our country and a commitment to technological development and innovation across the region, she added.
WITH OR WITHOUT YOU



CTC. 143 minutes. In cinemas May 8

In With or Without You, Marta Dusseldorp is busy wrecking her life, which is a good thing.

Shes played so many self-disciplined, can-do characters that I wondered for a while if she was happy doing anything else. Then came her TV series, Bay of Fires, which plunged her into a set-up dictated by black comic hysteria, and the picture changed.

Melina Vidler, Marta Dusseldorp and Albert Mwangi in With or Without You. Credit: Ian Routledge

But this time, shes really unravelling. Sharon has brought up her daughter, Chloe (Melina Vidler), alone while propping herself up with alcohol and the company of men who are bound to let her down. Now Chloe is an adult and the mother and daughter have swapped roles. Chloe is looking after her.
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 Its no secret The Pitt is one of the most exciting new shows of 2025. The bracing real-time medical drama, which followed hospital staff over the course of one relentless day in a Pittsburgh emergency room, won praise from critics, viewers and healthcare workers for its empathy and realism. But you might not have realised one of those endearing on-screen doctors is actually Australian. Deputy TV editor Meg Watson spoke to Shabana Azeez, who plays the shows youngest intern Dr Victoria Javadi, about landing her role in the hit show, working with Noah Wyle and other key creatives from ER, and what we can expect from season two. Loading MW: What have the past few months been like for you? This is by far the biggest project youve been a part of  the show averaged 10 million global viewers an episode, with Max reporting every episode since the premiere in January had more viewers than the last. SA: Its been wild! I really miss week-to-week TV like this. Bingeing is really fun, but I love shows that encourage watercooler conversations that the audience slowly trickle into. Especially ones like this with good character arcs. Even though the show was only 15 hours, over the course of one day, it stretched out to months for all of us. Absolutely. The show had good reviews from the start, but then it built such a connection with people as time went on. Was there a moment you realised, Oh this is actually a hit? I knew it was good from the get-go, even though it was not an easy script. It was intense, dense with medical jargon. But I knew it was special. Seeing the table reads made me realise it was going to be incredible. And just knowing the team as well.

Advertisement

For an Australian actor, for this to be your first American gig is the jackpot. I knew I was in safe hands and that Id have the best experience of my life. A lot of Australians just dont watch Australian TV, and so you work for a long time without much recognition. Now, suddenly, everyone is watching. Its a long way from guest spots on Utopia, ABCs Fresh Blood Pilots and local indie films. How did you find yourself on the show? This was my second US audition  and I was so scared! I hadnt built any relationships in America yet. They saw one audition tape, and just believed in it. Its kind of crazy. I didnt get into drama school when I was younger, and my parents did not want me to be an actor. They thought that was a crazy career path  which is fair. Theyre not wrong. But I am so lucky. I worked at a filmmakers hub and ended up making a bunch of friends who gave me a shot. That happened, like, 14 times in a row and thats sort of how I got here. I just want to act. I want to act so much. And I knew early on Id have to move. Im from Adelaide, where theres not heaps of stuff being made. This opportunity to work in America is a ticket to career sustainability, wherever I end up. My dream is that I get to make a little indie feature in every country once a year until I die!

Advertisement

Youre back in Adelaide, but filming for season two starts next month and the show will come back in January 2026. What does your life look like right now? Im really excited to get into season two, but I havent read any scripts yet. Everything is under lock and key, and Ill be the last to know. But its been really great being back in Australia (and its so strange to get recognised in Adelaide). Ive been doing a lot of research, going to med schools and talking to students. Obviously, its a very different environment to America, but Ive learnt so much. Research is such an important part of being an actor  and something thats quite invisible from the outside. Beyond the medical jargon and procedures, Azeez (left) says she wanted to learn about the emotional toll of emergency medicine. Credit: Max In this show, I think all the behind-the-scenes efforts have been made really clear. Theres been so much talk about the medical supervision and the doctor boot camp all the actors went through. The Pitt has rightfully been praised as the most realistic medical drama  and it seems to mean a lot to real healthcare workers. Does that response bring an added pressure now? Loading Its the most important thing for me. Healthcare workers are incredible, and its a very, very difficult industry. The closer I get to it, the more completely in awe I am. I never watched a lot of medical dramas growing up, but being part of the accurate one is a privilege. People have opened up to me in so many ways about the emotional impact of being in an emergency room: having to tell parents that their child is dead and then in the next second doing a knee replacement. You cant bring any emotional baggage with you, so it all gets compartmentalised.

Advertisement

Theres some pressure, but really its an honour. Are there big differences in what Australian healthcare workers say to you versus people in the US? The themes are universal, but there are nuances that are so cultural. I did a lot of research on gun violence before season one. Obviously, Im very unfamiliar with that and the toll it would take. My character is 20 years old; she would have been doing school shooter drills in primary school. That kind of thing impacts your reactions to a mass shooting in ways that maybe an Australian wouldnt have. It was actually really strange watching a bunch of American actors and crew do the mass shooting stuff. They had stories from their lives to draw on, things theyd all experienced. But Im quite shocked by gun violence  its not familiar to me. The cultural difference for myself and Gerran Howell, whos Welsh, were notable. Shabana Azeez and Gerran Howell on The Pitt. Credit: Max Theres such a great mix of talent on this cast  from up and comers to veterans like Noah Wyle, who is also an executive producer. Wyle was a TV doctor three decades ago, as John Carter on ER, and The Pitt shares so much creative DNA with that show. You said you werent big on medical dramas, but had you seen ER before auditioning? I have now! And The West Wing and Shameless [all from John Wells Productions, founded by the former ER showrunner and Pitt EP]. This team is incredible. Theyre all wonderful to work with and are serious about being kind on set. Theres a no assholes policy. Everyone does background work, including Noah Wyle. We dont use stand-ins during scenes.

Advertisement

There was so much empathy and care given to us, particularly from Noah and John. I uprooted my life to the other side of the world, and there was so much warmth and genuine care. Noah Wyle stars in The Pitt. Credit: Max Did Noah have any specific advice around that? He was, after all, just 23 when ER premiered. He was really supportive of everybody, in really clever ways. If you mentioned you liked something or had a shared interest, he would buy you books on it. For me, I really want to make films so he bought me Shot By Shot and In The Blink of an Eye. The books were waiting for me in my dressing room. He also encouraged me to come and shadow him on my days off. Id just moved to this country, I didnt have any friends, and I was only working two days a fortnight. Everybody really encouraged me to come in and take up space, shadow directors, go to production meetings and see how TV gets made. Noah was really part of setting that tone. You mentioned you havent seen any scripts for the next season yet. But we do know Dr Javadi is back. Creator R. Scott Gemmill has said shell be doing a sub-internship and the show will pick up around nine months after the events of season one. Do you have any hopes for her in season two?

Advertisement
This week when waters from the floods that caused such devastation in western Queensland in March first arrived at the home of Annemarie van Doorn and her husband, Luke Playford, creeping along the dry creek beds that feed into the Cooper Creek and Warburton River before sprawling into the great salt pans of Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, they brought with them clouds of sandflies and mosquitoes.

The first of the floodwaters entering Warburton Groove in Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre on Tuesday. Credit: Paul Hoelen Photography

A walk on Tuesday morning from the homestead at Kalamurina wildlife sanctuary, the vast nature reserve owned by the Australian Wildlife Sanctuary that the two manage, quickly became a run to escape the clouds of insects that had arrived with the new waters.

There were other changes too. Light aircraft began to patrol the skies above, carrying tourists intent on witnessing one of the continents most spectacular phenomena  the emptying of the monsoon rains from the channel country of the north into Central and South Australias ephemeral lakes. Flights of pelicans appeared to feed upon the perch and the catfish carried by the new waters.

Soon wildflowers will appear on the dunes that still stand above the waters and the chenopod and samphire shrubs will be charged with new growth and play host to wrens and robins, cockatiels and budgerigars. Ibis and spoonbills, waders and ducks will join pelicans.
A gunman allegedly executed notorious bikie Mohammed Akbar Keshtiar as he lay injured on the ground after a hit team sprayed him with 17 bullets.

Keshtiar, known as Afghan Ali, died in hospital after being shot several times in a targeted attack while walking along Almeida Crescent, South Yarra, about 11.40pm on August 4, 2023.

He was previously linked to outlaw motorcycle gangs, Middle Eastern crime groups and allegations of extortion.

Mohammed Akbar Keshtiar was gunned down outside his apartment building in South Yarra.

The Supreme Court heard on Wednesday that Narre Warren man Adris Kheyali, 23, was accused of opening fire on Keshtiar from the rear window of a car before getting out and shooting Keshtiar again as he lay critically wounded on the ground. A man with Keshtiar ran for safety and was not injured.
James Callahan sat on a footpath outside a kebab shop at 2am one Sunday, enjoying a meal with his friend.

Just over an hour later, the 22-year-old was pronounced dead in hospital, having been ambushed and allegedly fatally stabbed by a group of youths after he commented about one of them littering.

Police allege James Callahan, 22, was fatally ambushed by a group of youths outside a takeaway shop in Newcastle. Credit: GoFundMe

Almost six months on, details of the November 17 attack and its aftermath have emerged as the girlfriend of one of the alleged murderers fronted the NSW Supreme Court, accused of helping her partner avoid arrest.

According to a police fact sheet tendered to court as 29-year-old Teelah Cooper was granted bail, Callahan and his friend were eating on the footpath on Beaumont Street, Hamilton, a suburb of Newcastle, when a woman threw some of her kebab out a car window as she drove past the young men.
Like every nature-loving adolescent, Forrest says Attenboroughs groundbreaking nature films captured his imagination while growing up. And he, in turn, brought his own children up while ensuring Attenborough was part of their life. I just have the deepest of respect possible for David, Forrest says. He is an icon in the conservation and communication of nature. Wed already spoken a number of times. Wed communicated on the scourge of plastics in the oceans, on the acidification through warming of the oceans. Ocean with David Attenborough highlights threats to the seabed. Credit: Piece of Magic He didnt want to play favourites, but he puts hosting the King and Attenborough on the same level. Attenborough, who has admitted this will probably be his last film, remains hopeful for the future.

We know the ocean can recover, he says. My lifetime has coincided with the great age of ocean discovery. Over the last hundred years, scientists and explorers have revealed remarkable new species, epic migrations and dazzling, complex ecosystems beyond anything I could have imagined as a young man. Oceans urgency is clear. With more 90 per cent of the footage filmed in the past two years, Forrest insists: This is not archival footage. What you see on screen is a stark reflection of the current state of our oceans. Malinda Wink, the driving force behind Minderoo Pictures, said the deteriorating situation meant they couldnt wait the five to seven years for traditional funding models to play out. We needed to act now, she says. With Minderoos support, we were able to fast-track the films production in just 2 years, making sure it reached audiences at a critical moment. As financiers, Wink says its important that any project the organisation supports has scientific and factual accuracy at its core.

We were involved in  as were many who were experts in this arena  looking at the narration scripts and giving feedback to the team, she says. But obviously, its editorially independent. This is Sir Davids legacy, and his words. Loading The films urgency is underlined by its timing: launching ahead of World Ocean Day and the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, it aims to influence global policymakers  and galvanise public demand for marine protection. Forrests answer is one he says is scientifically proven and economically smart: enforceable, no-take marine parks covering at least 30 per cent of oceans by 2030. A no-take marine reserve is a designated area of the ocean where no fishing or extraction of resources is allowed.

Forrest says these protected zones are vital for preserving marine ecosystems, as they allow fish populations to regenerate and ecosystems to recover without the pressure of human exploitation. The film highlights how industrial fishing practices, such as bottom trawling, are irreparably damaging ecosystems. Forrest is particularly concerned about Australias Exmouth Gulf, where overfishing is destroying vital ecosystems. We need awareness and action, he says. He is also concerned that Australias marine parks still allow harmful practices such as bottom trawling. When you explain to a fisheries minister that youre allowing bottom trawling in a marine park, they dont get it, he says. Thats like bulldozing a rainforest and calling it conservation. Unless Australia and the world adopt real, no-take marine parks, were just fooling ourselves. Echoing Attenboroughs optimism, Forrest says that we still have time, but we must act now.
On Tuesday May 5th, 2027, United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with the heads of government from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the Bahamas in the first of its kind meeting in Washington, DC.

The meeting focused on enhanced regional cooperation to combat drug and firearms trafficking and illegal migration. Rubio also encouraged Caribbean partners to strengthen intelligence-sharing, security cooperation, and border security through initiatives like the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative.

In a swipe at the OECS leaders for their ongoing collaboration with China, Secretary Rubio urged them to make responsible, transparent decisions when selecting vendors and contractors for critical infrastructure projects, ensuring they are not vulnerable to privacy and security risks and exploitation by malign actors like the Chinese Communist Party.

With the approach of the hurricane season, Secretary Rubio announced the reactivation of programs to strengthen early warning systems and provide rapid, life-saving assistance for Caribbean countries in the event of this occurence.

Participants in the meeting included Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda, Prime Minister Philip Davis of The Bahamas, Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre of Saint Lucia, Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell of Grenada, and Prime Minister Terrance Drew of Saint Kitts and Nevis.
By Ashika Niraula and Lori Hamada

The Conversation

Skilled migrants and international students are leaving the United States for Canada in growing numbers. A March 2025 report by Statistics Canada reveals a sharp rise in the numbers of American non-citizen residents moving to Canada. Reasons given are largely restrictive U.S. immigration policies, visa caps and long wait times for green cards.

This is a shift from earlier decades when American-born citizens dominated the trend. By 2019, nearly half of those making the move were U.S. non-citizen residents.

Since U.S. President Donald Trumps election win and early days in office, Google searches by American residents on how to move to Canada, New Zealand and Australia have surged.

Several high-profile academics have relocated to Canadian universities amid growing concerns over threats to academic freedom.

British Columbia recently announced plans to launch landmark policies to streamline the credential recognition process for internationally trained health-care professionals, particular American doctors and nurses.

Skilled talent like healthcare professionals, researchers and engineers are essential to building innovative, future-ready economies. But attracting them requires staying competitive in an increasingly global bid for talent.

In this global race for talent, Canada and Australia need to offer not only efficient immigration pathways but also faster credential recognition and better integration support.

Yet both nations find themselves walking a tightrope. Once both celebrated as welcoming destinations for global talent, each country has experienced recent immigration restrictions and growing anti-immigration sentiments, undermining those reputations.

Research from Toronto Metropolitan Universitys Migration and Integration Program shows Canadas appeal for skilled migrants is rooted in a mix of practical and aspirational factors. This includes a combination of high living standards, the promise of better career prospects, more accessible permanent residency pathways and a broadly welcoming society.

But for migrants in Canada, these goals are becoming harder to attain.

Since the pandemic, Canadas immigration approach has shifted. During the early COVID-19 years, Canada was praised for its inclusive response, including recognizing immigrants as essential to economic recovery. Temporary workers, including essential workers, international student graduates and French-speaking immigrants, were offered new routes to permanent residency through a federal program.

However, since 2024, Canada has taken a more cautious approach.

New policy changes that target international students and cut temporary and permanent migration numbers have tarnished Canadas global reputation as a welcoming place.

While permanent residency is still more accessible than in the U.S., skilled migrants are increasingly questioning whether the wait for permanent residency is worth it.

Australia faces similar dilemmas. In late 2023, the government launched a new migration strategy to address critical workforce shortages in construction, tech and health care. The Skills in Demand visa promised faster processing and clearer pathways to permanent residency for workers in priority sectors.

Yet a recent report by the Grattan Institute warns that tighter eligibility rules risk excluding much-needed talent, potentially weakening Australias competitiveness.

Growing visa delays are also noted to be an additional barrier that may deter both prospective migrants and employers.

Migration data often tells a story of numbers, categories and eligibility thresholds. However, the human stories behind the numbers reveal deep systemic issues and missed opportunities. One recurring issue is the widespread phenomenon of deskilling.

In both Canada and Australia, many skilled migrants often find themselves working in jobs far below their qualifications.

These experiences are part of a pattern that affects not only individuals but also national economies, which lose out on the full potential of their skilled workforce.

Credential recognition systems are opaque, inconsistent and frequently biased.

Another overlooked issue is that many skilled migrants do not move alone. People arrive with spouses, children and sometimes elderly parents.

Yet immigration and settlement systems in both countries are largely structured around individual economic migrants rather than families. In Canada, for instance, federally funded settlement services are mainly geared toward supporting only permanent residents.

Many spouses, particularly women, face even greater barriers to employment. Issues also include things like high fees for visa processing for parents. Other considerations include children who may struggle with schooling and identity in unfamiliar environments.

Housing shortages and high costs in major urban centres compound these challenges, pushing newcomers into unaffordable living conditions.

All this contributes to growing disillusionment. Migrants initially drawn to Canada or Australia as alternatives to unwelcoming environments elsewhere may choose to still come, but it doesnt mean they will stay.

The experiences of skilled migrants in Canada and Australia show that attracting talent is only half the battle. The real challenge is in retention and integration.

Many countries like Germany, Japan, South Korea and some Gulf states have begun offering more competitive pathways to immigration along with promises of a work-life balance, streamlined visa programs and competitive salaries. This means skilled migrants are increasingly mobile.

Australia has made strides in streamlining visa categories and targeting sectoral needs, while Canada has built a strong narrative around inclusion and multiculturalism.

However, there is a need to combine Australias responsiveness and Canadas inclusive ethos to build resilient migration systems.

In an era defined by geopolitical uncertainties, countries can no longer afford to treat skilled migrants as temporary fixes or just economic inputs. They are people with aspirations, with families and with dreams.

They must be seen and supported as future citizens. To build future-ready migration systems, Canada must:

 Ensure transparency and consistency in immigration pathways to reduce uncertainties caused by policy reversals and lengthy processing times.

 Improve credential recognition and career support to help skilled migrants, including temporary residents, transition into roles that match their qualifications.

 Develop regional settlement strategies to address where migrants settle and ensure equitable access to services, job markets and housing, especially outside major cities.

 Adopt inclusive, intersectional policies that consider gender, race and class in shaping the migrant experience, including support for spouses, children and aging parents.

 Foster collaborative and responsive policymaking. This involves connecting researchers, employers, community organizations and migrants to inform policy making.

For Canada, the challenge ahead is clear. Its not just about opening the door. Its about making sure that once here, migrants have the support, rights and opportunities to walk through that door  and thrive.  The Conversation.

Ashika Niraula is a Senior Research Associate, Canada Excellence Research Chair in Migration & Integration Program, Toronto Metropolitan University. Lori Hamada is a Lecturer, Japanese Studies, Migration and Employment.
Terrorists will now understand value of life': Woman who lost husband in Pahalgam hails Op Sindoor

Balasore, May 7 (PTI)

Odisha's Priya Darshani Achariya, who lost her husband in the Pahalgam attack, thanked the Centre for acting against terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, and stated that terrorists would now understand the value of a human life.

Achariya's husband, Prashant Satpathy, was among the 26 people killed in the Pahalgam attack on April 22.

"I am elated and thank the government for taking such a bold step. Army personnel had assured me near the body of my husband that action would be taken, and that has happened today," she told reporters at her house in Ishani village in Balasore district.

"I am elated because the terrorists will now understand the value of a human life and how precious it is. The sacrifice of my husband has not gone in vain," she added.

Indian armed forces carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base in Muridke. The strike was codenamed 'Operation Sindoor'.

Appreciating the name, Achariya said the terrorists erased 'sindoor' from the foreheads of many women, and they were rightly punished.

"My husband will not return, but such an attack should not happen again anywhere in the world," she said.

Achariya said she was confident that the government would act, but was anxious about its timing.

"I was confident because I had seen the mood of the government and our soldiers. I am very happy today," she said.

"Terrorism should be completely rooted out, not from India alone, but from across the world. People on this planet should live without fear," she said.

Achariya said the fight against terrorism should continue till the end.

"Human life must be valued and respected. I know I cannot be happy all my life, but no one should face this situation," she said.
SC paves way for polls to local bodies in State





Staff Reporter :

Directs SEC to issue poll notification within 4 weeks

Clears way for polls to Municipal Corporation, Municipal Councils, ZPs, Nagar Panchayats and Gram Panchayats.

SEC directed to complete the process within four months.

SEC directed to use data prior to year 2022 for draw to reserve seats for women, OBC, SC and ST.

With Supreme Court clearing way for holding polls to local bodies, giving directive to notify polls within four weeks, the grassroots workers of all the political parties are in a jubilant mood. During the hearing on the matter on Monday, a bench headed by Justice Surya Kant at the apex court directed State Election Commission (SEC) said that endeavour should be made to conclude the elections to local bodies within four months. Further, the Court directed SEC to notify the local body elections within four weeks. Justice Kant observed that in their considered opinion, the constitutional mandate of grassroots democracy through periodical elections of the local bodies ought to be respected and ensured. The top court noted that the local body elections in the State had not been held for several years due to the pendency of several issues that arose with regard to OBC reservations. So after a gap of three-and-half years, general elections to Municipal Corporations, Municipal Councils, Nagar Panchayats, Zilla Parishad and Gram Panchayats would be held. The three tier model of democratic institutions was impaired after Supreme Court put a stay on notification of elections on the issue of per cant of seats to be reserved for OBC. Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) will finally have elected public representatives back in action post SCs green signal to SEC.

The decision has elated grassroot workers of the political parties who were waiting for long. And the decision on Tuesday has given hope for the common man as finally their voice would be heard in the corridors of power. Since last three years, the issue of percentage of seats to be reserved for OBC in local bodies was pending for decision in apex court. Now the Court said the elections be held on data relating to population and reservation criteria that existed prior to 2022. With apex court directing issuance of poll notification within four week, it means the process of nomination and thereafter campaigning will clash with rainy season, a period when entire administration is on its toes to deal with any natural calamity. It remains to be seen whether SEC abides by the directives or as per talks, it may approach Apex Court and seek extension in time to ensure that elections be held in October-November period, post conclusion of rainy season period.

The local authorities at NMC are waiting for directives from SEC as at apex level, the officers are awaiting for final details. The division bench of Supreme Court led by Justice Surya Kant further observed that constitutional mandate of grassroot democracy through periodical elections of the local bodies ought to be respected and ensured. Local body elections in Maharashtra had not been held for several years due to the pendency several issues that arose with regard to OBC reservations. For past 3 years, the House comprising elected public representative in all Municipal Corporations and other local bodies of State have been in suspended animation following completion of 5-year tenure. In 2022, the process of draws for reservation, for ST, SC and OBC and for women was completed and in Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC), 156 seats were announced with 52 Prabhags. But the issue of whether to go for Prabhag of 3 or 4 led to stalemate and matter thereafter reached the Courts over OBC quota in local bodies led to long stalemate.

As of now, the issue of Prabhag with representation of 3 or 4 is not clear as the 2022 draw were based on premise of 3 representatives. In case SEC notifies 4 Prabhag, then entire reservation and Prabhag boundaries will undergo massive change. Since the elections to Assembly were held with revised list of voters, the local body polls will also be based on same number of voters. During 2017 incidentally, the elections to NMC were held with 4 representatives in a Prabhag and that time their number was 38. The voters number that time was 20,93,392 with population base of 29,47,494.
Wg Cdr Vyomika Singh: Accomplished pilot who briefed media on 'Operation Sindoor'





New Delhi, May 7 (PTI)

Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media on Wednesday alongside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Qureshi on India's 'Operation Sindoor', is an accomplished helicopter pilot who has flown a variety of aircraft and taken part in rescue operations in extreme conditions to evacuate civilians.

In retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack, Indian armed forces early Wednesday carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base Muridke.

The military strikes were carried out under 'Operation Sindoor', two weeks after the massacre of 26 people, mostly tourists, in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.

At the briefing, the two women officers -- Vyomika Singh and Sofiya Qureshi -- sat on the dais flanked by Misri, who delivered the opening statement from the government on 'Operation Sindoor'.

The two officers then shared details about the sites hit by the Indian forces.

Vyomika, who's married to an Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot, had shared how her name, perhaps, carried her destiny to become a pilot during a panel discussion hosted by a private channel in 2023.

"I was in Class-6 when the Eureka moment happened -- I realised that I wanted to be a pilot and own the sky. We were having a discussion in the class on the meaning of names. Somebody shouted, You are Vyomika, which means you own the sky'. Since that day, I wanted to be a pilot. This was in early 1990s, Vyomika recalled during the panel discussion.

During the interaction that hailed the spirit of 'Nari Shakti', she also shared her journey into the IAF and how she earned her wings.

From dreaming to be a pilot, to logging over 2,500 flying hours, Vyomika has operated several helicopters across some of the country's most challenging terrains, from the high-altitude sectors in Jammu and Kashmir to the remote areas in the Northeast.

In 2020, she led a rescue operation in Arunachal Pradesh, flying in extreme conditions to evacuate civilians.

It has been an excellent experience (in the IAF), and I love it, the IAF officer told the private channel, as she shared what it meant to fly a helicopter in different weather conditions and negotiate it.
TRF head Sheikh Sajjad Gul identified as mastermind behind Pahalgam terror attack





New Delhi, May 7 (PTI)

Sheikh Sajjad Gul, a 50-year-old Kashmiri and head of Lashkar-e-Taiba proxy The Resistance Front (TRF), has emerged as the mastermind of the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 people, mostly tourists, on April 22, officials said Wednesday.

Holed up in the Cantonment town of Rawalpindi, Pakistan, under the patronage of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Gul, who also goes by the alias of Sajjad Ahmed Sheikh, has been a planner of a number of terror attacks, including targeted killings between 2020 and 2024 in Central and South Kashmir, grenade attacks in Central Kashmir in 2023, ambush of J&K police personnel in Bijbehra in Anantnag, Gagangir, Z-Morh Tunnel attack in Ganderbal.

The NIA had designated him a terrorist in April 2022 and kept a reward of Rs 10 lakh on his head.

The official said that during the investigation into the deadly April 22 Pahalgam attack, links and some communications have been traced back to Gul. The TRF had claimed responsibility for the attack.

The group, under Gul's instruction, had shot 25 tourists at point-blank range after asking their religion in Pahalgam on April 22. A local tourist guide was also killed by the terrorists.

Used by Pakistan's external snooping agency ISI as a Kashmiri face of the local Punjabi-dominated Lashkar-e-Taiba, Sheikh was educated in Srinagar and did his MBA from Bangalore, later pivoting to a lab technician course in Kerala. He returned to the Valley, where he opened a diagnostic lab and started providing logistical support to the terror group.

During his work as an overground worker (OGW) of the terror group, Gul was caught by the Special Cell of the Delhi police in 2002 from Nizamuddin Railway Station with 5 kilograms of RDX. It was revealed that he was conducting a recce and conspiring to conduct serial blasts in the national capital, for which he was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment on August 7, 2003.

He moved to Pakistan after his release from prison in 2017, where the ISI chose him to lead a proxy of the LeT  The Resistance Front (TRF)  in Kashmir in 2019 to give it a facade of an indigenous terror movement of Jammu and Kashmir.

The creation of TRF was a strategy of the ISI in the aftermath of the Pulwama incident in February 2019, when Pakistan had come to the adverse notice of the world for sponsoring and harbouring terror outfits like LeT and JeM.

His brother, an ex-doctor in Shri Maharaja Hari Singh Hospital, Srinagar, was also a terrorist in the 1990s who had migrated to Saudi Arabia and later to Pakistan, where he is now involved in terror funding with fugitives in Gulf countries.
UNSC raps Pakistan, poses tough questions





NEW YORK :

UN SECURITY Council member nations have posed tough questions to Pakistan while discussing the Pahalgam terror attack amid increasing global outrage over the dastardly strike that killed 26 civilians. The Security Council refused to issue a statement following the meeting which was held in a consultative room rather than the main hall, effectively dismissing Pakistans attempt to get a favourable position from the Security Council. There was broad condemnation of the terrorist attack and the need to fix accountability for it, authoritative sources told PTI after an informal session of the top UN body.

The United Nations Security Council members raised tough questions for Pakistan at its informal session. It was advised to sort out the issues bilaterally with India, a source said. At the deliberations, the UN Security Council discussed rising tensions between India and Pakistan and several envoys called for de-escalation. Although the 15-member UNSC did not issue a statement, Pakistan claimed that its own objectives were largely served. Pakistan is one of the non-permanent members of the UN Security Council. Greece, President of the UNSC for the month of May, had scheduled the meeting on Monday following a request by Pakistan. Assistant Secretary-General for the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific in the Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations Khaled Mohamed Khiari of Tunisia briefed the Council on behalf of both departments (DPPA and DPO). Coming out of the meeting, Khiari said there was a call for dialogue and peaceful resolution of the conflict.

He noted that the situation is volatile. Ambassador Evangelos Sekeris, a Permanent Representative of Greece to the United Nations and the current UNSC President, described it as a productive meeting, helpful. A Russian diplomat said, We hope for de-escalation. The sources added that there was broad condemnation of the terrorist attack and recognition of the need for accountability. Some members specifically brought up targeting of tourists on the basis of their religious faith, the sources said. UNSC members refused to accept the false flag narrative and asked whether Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba was likely to be involved.

The closed-door meeting that lasted about an hour and a half did not take place in the UNSC Chamber where Council members sit at the horse-shoe table, but in a consultation room next to it. Sources added Pakistans efforts to internationalise the situation also failed. Many members expressed concern that Pakistans missile tests and nuclear rhetoric were escalatory factors. Pakistans Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad told reporters that the countrys objectives were largely served and achieved at the meeting. He said the objectives of the closed consultations included enabling the Council members to have a discussion on the deteriorating security environment and rising tensions between India and Pakistan and to have an exchange of views on how to address the situation, including avoiding confrontation that could have serious consequences and the need for de-escalation. Ahmad thanked Council members for their engagement and their calls for restraint, de-escalation and dialogue. He said that while Pakistan does not seek confrontation, we are fully prepared to defend our sovereignty and territorial integrity. Citing cross-border linkages to the April 22 Pahalgam attack, India has promised severe punishment to those involved in the strike.
Would like to play role of Osho: Nawazuddin







By Bhavana Aparajita Shukla

BHOPAL,

Tete-a-Tete with one of the Bollywoods finest actors and legendary performers Nawazuddin Siddiqui by Bhavana Aparajita Shukla Tete-a-Tete with one of the Bollywoods finest actors and legendary performers Nawazuddin Siddiqui by Bhavana Aparajita Shukla

In a very short span of time, an actor from Uttar Pradesh became iconic, winning hearts with his nuance acting and memorable dialogues, film geeks and Gen Xs favourite, actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui not only act effortless in drama and films, but also talks in honest and humble manner with media. This Black Friday, Peepli Live, Kahani, Gangs of Wasseypur and Lunch Box fame actor was in the City of Lakes, Bhopal and during the conversation with The Hitavada he splash in to the memories of his entry in to the Bollywood, his journey in to the industry, dreams, new release Costao (May 1 ) on ZEE5. Of course! character actor dont forget to acknowledge contribution of theatre in his successful Bollywood journey. His characters transformation from a ruthless gangster, a trainee in a office, an Indo-Pakistani, author and writer Saadat Hasan Manto in biographical drama- Saadat Hasan Manto and of an officer in new release Costao- is both gripping and unforgettable in viewers memories. In short span of time, he has worked in an international co-production of studios in India, the US, Germany and France and have co-stars like Irrfan Khan, Manoj Bajpayee, Pankaj Tripathi and Bharti Achrekar. He has starred in two Emmy-nominated series, Sacred Games (2019) and the British McMafia. Also a winner of The Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor. Regarding to preparation for Costao Fernandes, who is a sharp and fearless officer who doesnt follow rules but always seeks justice. This is story of a bold customs officer who stands up against a powerful smuggling network, fighting crime and corruption while dealing with pressure from both the underworld and his own department. He said that he can connect with him as he too is devoted to his role in real life and act to achieve whatever his role demands irrespective normal constrains and rules. Costao is an Indian biographical crime drama. The actor also explained that instead of copying him, he tried to understand (Costaos) feelings and behaviour. On his shifting from a private job to the Bollywood movie industry, he gave reference from his famous dialogue from Lunch Box movie kabhi kabhi galat train bhi sahi jagah tak pahucha deti hai, wrong train may takes you to the right destination seems true for this private job employee in petrochemical plant, Nawazuddin to entered in to the Hindi film Industry. Once he saw a play in theatre and thought to do something new in life and this is how he entered in to the industry where he finds himself, lucky to be in this line. Where he has a lot of opportunity and dream to do much more in future. His journey to theatre began when someone introduced him to it. He left his chemical factory job and plunged in to theatre world. People should watch theatre it is real time act. Replying to a query on his dream role Gangs of Wasseypurs Faizal Khan, a gangster fame actor in his real life is inspired from Acharya Rajneesh (saying with a smile he is from your state Madhya Pradesh), I would like to play role of Osho and mentioned his quote Act as if it is real life and live as if it is acting.
Anthony Albanese emerged the winner of the Federal Election on Saturday 3rd May 2025. His Labor Party won the election by a landslide, taking at least 85 seats in the House of Representatives and forming majority government.

The Labor party had taken a number of tax related measures into the election which will now progress, in due course, to become law. Key measures which will impact your taxes include:

Standard $1,000 tax deduction

From 1 July 2026, the government will introduce an automatic deduction of $1,000 for work-related expenses without the need for receipts, benefiting approximately six million workers who currently claim less than this amount.

The reform will allow taxpayers to choose to claim a $1,000 instant tax deduction instead of claiming individual work-related expenses. It is intended to save time and money for taxpayers, who wont  in theory  need to keep receipts/invoices to substantiate the $1,000 deduction. Of course, in practice, many taxpayers will still need to keep full substantiation as they wont necessarily know whether their work-related expenses are more or less than $1,000 until they get to the end of the tax year.

If you wish to claim more than $1,000 in work-related expenses, you wont be able to claim the automatic deduction. You will need to follow the current rules, which involve full substantiation of most expenses.

The ATO will not need to audit taxpayers who claim the standard deduction. This will enable them to focus on higher tax claims (including work-related deductions over $1,000), which is sure to increase the pressure on taxpayers to make sure they have the necessary records to support their claim.

Currently taxpayers can claim up to $300 in work-related expenses without substantiation. If they exceed the $300, they need full substantiation for all their expenses, not just the excess over $300. The $300 limit doesnt apply to claims for car expenses, meal allowance, award transport payments allowance, or travel allowance expenses. Taxpayers do need to prove how they spent the money and how they calculated the claims.

It remains to be seen how Labor implements this proposal; will it be a blanket exception for all work-related expenses of less than $1,000 or will it simply piggy-back on the existing $300 exception (raising the threshold by $700), complete with its exclusions and checks?

And note  this is a standard deduction, not a simple refund of $1,000. The amount you get back depends on your tax rate. For example, someone who pays tax at 30% will get $300 (30% x $1,000) back.

Taxpayers will need to complete a tax return to claim the deduction which means that it will be July 2027 at the earliest before they see any benefit.

Reduction in the bottom rate of income tax

From July 1, 2026, the tax rate for the lowest tax bracket will be cut from 16 per cent to 15 per cent, which is equivalent to one cent less for every dollar you earn between $18,201 and $45,000. Then, on July 1, 2027, the rate will fall again to 14 per cent. The actual impact on taxpayers take-home pay will be limited; it amounts to a tax reduction of $268 from 1 July 2026 and $536 from 1 July 2027.

Other measures?

The government deliberately set a small target strategy, ruling out more fundamental changes to the tax system. So, there are no proposals to remove or reform the system of negative gearing, no changes to the GST, and no changes to the tax rates or thresholds other than those outline above to the bottom rate.

ALSO READ: Tax cut for SMEs could yield $10 return for every $1 lost: Report

Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
This week on Lets Talk, our experts weigh in on a challenge many small businesses face: how to stand out online without breaking the bank.

With lower budgets and fewer personnel, SMEs are likely to be at a disadvantage versus larger brands when it pertains to SEO as well as online presence. However, the playing field is not as lopsided as you may assume. From keyword research to on-page optimisation and also local search techniques, there are a multitude of free tools to help improve your online visibility, if you recognise where to find them.

In this edition, we explore practical, cost-effective ways to improve your search rankings, get free resources, and create a stronger online footprint. Whether youre a newbie or looking to streamline your existing strategy, our panel of SEO and digital marketing experts share small business-centric guidance that you can put to practice.

More Lets Talk episodes

Contribute to Dynamic Business 

Annette Densham, Award Writing Services

Ah, let me count the ways. Contributing to publications like Dynamic Business, sharing your insights and knowledge in collaborative articles is a great way to become more visible for free. Not only do you get the third party credibility of appearing in a respected publication, but you can leverage the link across social media to get more eyeballs on your brand.

Repurposing content is a free tool we can all use to use what we have in multiple ways for visibility. People need to see you more than once a month. If thats your strategy, its hard to stand out. The key is consistency. You cant do one post or one blog a week and expect to be more visible. I call this being Googlicious. The art of using breadcrumbs to build your brand in subtle ways for your audience so you show up in Google searches. Using all these tools gives you social proof for when people search for you. Were inundated with content, over 75gb a day, so every consistent piece of content is a breadcrumb building trust with your audience. When theyre ready to buy, youve developed a relationship with them, they remember you. Its like the power of advertising  repetition to stick.

Using tools like business awards, blogs on your website, media placements, books, contributing to other peoples sites, regularly posting to LinkedIn, being on podcasts, answering media callouts on SourceBottle, having a mix of visual, written and video content, and being active in Facebook groups and repurposing content are all breadcrumbs that build your presence. It comes down to committing to putting yourself out there. The good thing is you dont have to come up with 52 pieces of original content for the year, you can repurpose blogs, articles and other storytelling into posts, reels, infographics, video and other types of content to reuse across multiple platforms, every day. Breadcrumbs. Leading back to you.

Katya Vakulenko, Managing Director at SOUP Agency

Katya Vakulenko, Managing Director at SOUP Agency

Small businesses often think SEO requires a big budget, but there are excellent free tools that can make a real impact. Start with Google Search Console  it shows you which keywords youre already ranking for and highlights technical issues that may be holding your site back. Pair it with Google Trends or Google Keyword Planner to identify what your customers are actually searching for. Then use AnswerThePublic to find common questions around your niche  perfect for writing helpful content that boosts visibility. Lastly, Ubersuggest is great for basic keyword research without needing a subscription.

With consistency and smart use of these tools, SMEs can create content that drives organic traffic  and it wont cost a cent.

Matthew Chalk, Head of SEO at D3

Matthew Chalk, Head of SEO at D3

For SMEs, the critical first step is defining a clear SEO strategy before implementing any tools. Investing in a freelancer or SEO expert to help develop this strategy is often money well spent, as they can identify the specific approach needed for your business before you begin execution.

Once your strategy is established, there exists a wealth of free, powerful tools that can significantly enhance your SEO performance and online visibility without denting your finances.

Googles Ecosystem

Start with Google Business Profile to establish your local presence. This free tool allows you to appear in local searches and on Google Maps, providing potential customers with essential information about your business. Complement this with Google Search Console and Analytics to monitor your sites performance, identify technical issues, and understand user behaviour patterns.

Start with Google Business Profile to establish your local presence. This free tool allows you to appear in local searches and on Google Maps, providing potential customers with essential information about your business. Complement this with Google Search Console and Analytics to monitor your sites performance, identify technical issues, and understand user behaviour patterns. Keyword Research

Uncover valuable keywords using tools like Answer the Public, which reveals common questions around your topic, or browse Googles People also ask sections for content inspiration. Ubersuggests free version offers limited but valuable keyword insights to guide your content strategy.

Uncover valuable keywords using tools like Answer the Public, which reveals common questions around your topic, or browse Googles People also ask sections for content inspiration. Ubersuggests free version offers limited but valuable keyword insights to guide your content strategy. Technical Optimisation

Use PageSpeed Insights to test and improve your site loading timesa critical ranking factor. Slow sites frustrate users and receive SEO penalties. Similarly, Mobile-Friendly Test ensures your site performs well on smartphones, where most searches now occur.

Use PageSpeed Insights to test and improve your site loading timesa critical ranking factor. Slow sites frustrate users and receive SEO penalties. Similarly, Mobile-Friendly Test ensures your site performs well on smartphones, where most searches now occur. Content and On-Page SEO

With these insights, create relevant content that addresses customer questions, optimising your title tags, meta descriptions, and header tags with target keywords. Remember that quality trumps quantity every time.

By systematically implementing these free strategiesguided by expert-developed strategysmall businesses can achieve meaningful visibility improvements without stretching their limited resources.

Peter Curran, Founder & Business Development Manager at Digital Surfer

Peter Curran, Founder & Business Development Manager at Digital Surfer

Even businesses with a stellar SEO agency should have some free SEO tools to monitor their results from time to time themselves. Of course, you have the essentials like GA4 (Google Analytics) and Google Search Console, which are free, although perhaps a little complicated if youre not used to them. They give you an overview of where youre at, such as the number of people visiting your website, where theyre coming from, what content theyre looking at, errors on your website, your top ranking content and what thats doing for your business.

If youre after something to give your website more of an audit than a check-in, SEMrush provides some free features that can be valuable. You do need to know what youre looking at to an extent, and it can be very time consuming, but thats what people like our award-winning SEO specialists are for.

Of course, if were talking about free SEO and online presence tools, we cant not mention Google Business Profile, can we? Having a free profile is essential, and then optimising it (or having someone like Digital Surfer) do it for you will help you get found on local Google searches. Its essential, especially for people looking for reviews on companies. If youre not there, youre not in the race to win the customer.

Tracy Sheen, Founder of The Digital Guide and author of AI & U

Small businesses dont need deep pockets to boost their online visibilityjust a smart mix of free tools and a clear strategy. Start with Google Business Profileits free, powerful, and often overlooked. Keeping it updated helps your business show up in local search. Use Ubersuggest or Google Keyword Planner to uncover what your customers are searching for, and shape blog or FAQ content around those terms. Tools like AnswerThePublic and Google Trends help spark content ideas that build trust and rank well. Then track whats working with Google Search Console. Free doesnt mean low impactit means being resourceful. Combine these tools with AI writing support like ChatGPT (used wisely!) and youve got an SEO engine most small businesses arent tapping into yet.

Alexander Zaremsky, Head of Marketing User Acquisition at Devart

Alexander Zaremsky, Head of Marketing User Acquisition at Devart

Introducing SEO strategy doesnt mean you should spend hundreds on tools for tracking online visibility. Free tools can provide your SME business with features that, compared to paid platforms, still can cut manual effort. Here is the list of tools to pay attention to if you dont want to break the bank on SEO:

Google Search Console : Monitor website performance, identify and fix crawl errors, and submit sitemaps to ensure search engines index your site.

: Monitor website performance, identify and fix crawl errors, and submit sitemaps to ensure search engines index your site. Google Analytics : Track visitor behavior and traffic sources to refine your SEO and focus on results.

: Track visitor behavior and traffic sources to refine your SEO and focus on results. Google My Business : Optimize your profile with accurate details and engage with customers to boost local search visibility, crucial for brick-and-mortar SMEs.

: Optimize your profile with accurate details and engage with customers to boost local search visibility, crucial for brick-and-mortar SMEs. Google Keyword Planner : Research long-tail keywords to create targeted content that aligns with search intent.

: Research long-tail keywords to create targeted content that aligns with search intent. AI Tools (e.g., ChatGPT) : Automate content creation, such as writing meta descriptions, blog outlines, or FAQs, saving time.

: Automate content creation, such as writing meta descriptions, blog outlines, or FAQs, saving time. Python : Use scripts to analyze keywords or scrape competitor data, to stay ahead in search rankings.

: Use scripts to analyze keywords or scrape competitor data, to stay ahead in search rankings. Google Looker Studio: Build free, customizable dashboards to visualize SEO metrics to track progress and adjust strategies.

By consistently creating high-quality content and using these tools, SMEs can improve search rankings, attract more organic traffic, and grow.

Maria Kathopoulis, CEO & Chief Marketing Officer at UNTMD Media

Maria Kathopoulis, CEO & Chief Marketing Officer at UNTMD Media

When youre running an SME, you dont need more tools  you need smarter ones. Free resources, powered by agentic AI, are now a serious growth weapon.

Start with the basics: Google Business Profile and Google Search Console. Together, they put your brand on the map and reveal where youre winning or losing visibility.

But the search landscape is shifting. More users now ask AI-first platforms like ChatGPT and Gemini for answers, not just Google. SMEs must optimise not only for traditional search but for AI discovery too. Agentic AI tools help by suggesting content gaps, SEO opportunities, and keyword strategies aligned with this hybrid behaviour.

Platforms like ChatGPT (with SEO plugins) dont just react  they anticipate and recommend, helping SMEs produce smarter content faster while optimising OPEX.

Use Canvas AI-driven creative tools to generate SEO-optimised visuals that boost engagement and search relevance across web and social channels.

The old SEO game was slow and linear. The new one is agentic, predictive, and multi-channel, where winning brands show up in both search engines and AI outputs.

SMEs that move early with agentic AI arent just improving SEO  theyre protecting margins, accelerating visibility, and future-proofing growth.

William Levy Maman, CMO at Tomedes

For SMEs, finding ways to improve SEO and online visibility without heavy investment is crucial. Free tools can play a significant role, especially when expanding into multilingual markets. Tomedes built resources like the AI Translator, Pre-Translation Toolkit, and Translation QA Tool to support this need. These tools help businesses produce accurate, high-quality translations, prepare source texts for smoother localization, and ensure consistency and quality across languages.

Good SEO today is not just about keywordsits about providing a seamless, localized experience for users worldwide. By using free tools to adapt content properly, SMEs can make their websites more accessible, improve engagement, and strengthen their presence in new markets. When combined with basic SEO practices like optimizing metadata and site structure, these resources offer a practical, cost-effective way to compete globally and drive sustainable online growth.

Lauren Clemett, CEO at The Audacious Agency

SEO isnt just a technical game, its about connecting with your audience through valuable content. Recent research by SEO Guru Neil Patel shows that over 64% of Googles page 1 rankings are achieved by blogs. This highlights the power of creating consistent, engaging content.

Blogging can be challenging but tools like AnswerThePublic can help uncover topics that truly resonate with your audience (offering limited free searches). Googles search bar itself is an invaluable (and free) tool to spark blog topics  just type in a question and wait for the auto-completed suggestions to gain real-time insights into the most-searched phrases.

But content creation is only one part of the equation. Planning your organic content marketing is essential for consistent delivery. You should schedule blogs around monthly themes that resonate with your audience, then leverage specific dates to drive traffic to your website. Think Mothers Day, celebrity birthdays, or summer holidays  these are all opportunities to newsjack and create compelling social media content with a link to read more on my blog.

Being strategic is the key to free SEO and planning your content means youll actually dedicate time and effort to it each month.

Alexandra Egan, Founder and CEO at The Domino Effect Consulting & Facilitating

SEO isnt about beating algorithms; its about rethinking how your business shows up, earns trust, and stays relevant.

Free tools like Google Search Console, Bing Webmaster Tools, Ubersuggest, and AnswerThePublic give SMEs critical visibility into customer behaviour, site health, and content gaps. Tools like SEMRush can supercharge this later, but strong foundations must come first.

Step 1: Treat SEO as an operational project, not a marketing add-on. Set clear goals (visibility, leads, engagement), assign accountability, and map actions to measurable outcomes.

Step 2: Stop guessing what customers want. Use keyword and analytics tools to align messaging with real search intent, not assumptions.

Step 3: Build a feedback loop. Review, refine, and rebuild pages monthly. Small, consistent improvements outperform grand, one-off campaigns.

In todays market, those who systemise visibility and relevance, instead of chasing trends, will win.

The right process, not just more effort, drives sustainable growth.

David Dahdah, Head of Content, The Big Smoke

AI tools are democratising business building. Theyre giving individuals and SMEs access to what used to be big-budget firepower.

Today, you can use free AI platforms to research keywords, generate content, optimise your site, and track performance, and you can do it for free. Obviously, you could do it better with a group of trained professionals, but access is the key here.

Tools like ChatGPT, SurferSEO (free tier), and Google Search Console can all sharpen your SEO if used correctly. AI can turn what used to be a full-time role into something you manage on the side, until youre ready to invest in it.

Actionable tip: pick one page of your site, check Google Search Console to find a keyword youre already ranking for, and use AI to expand your content around it. There you go, marketing advice for free.

My point is the real value isnt in the tools, but the outcomes you can achieve. The gatekeepers are gone. Anyone with drive and a clear head can build visibility and momentum to put their business on the path to growth.

Janet Camilleri, SEO Specialist and Founder of Front Page SEO

Janet Camilleri, SEO Specialist and Founder of Front Page SEO

In my online program, the DIY SEO HQ, I teach small business owners how to improve their SEO and online visibility using practical strategies and free tools.

While many SEO tools come with free trials or limited features, Google themselves are the best place to start.

For local or service-based businesses, claiming and optimising a Google Business Profile is one of the most powerful (and often overlooked) tools in the marketing toolkit. This is how businesses appear in the map pack at the top of search results  and the first three listed receive a massive 92% of local traffic.

The other two essentials are Google Analytics and Google Search Console. While they dont directly boost visibility, they provide a gold mine of data to guide your SEO strategy.

Google Analytics shows which pages are getting the most trafficso you can double down on whats working. Google Search Console on the other hand is your first port of call when checking for issues, and to confirm whether your pages are indexed and appearing in search results.

Used together, these free tools give small businesses a powerful head start with SEOwithout spending a cent.

Charles Liu, Founder & Marketing Director at Cubic Promote

Charles Liu, Founder & Marketing Director at Cubic Promote

When youre running a small business, budgets are tight  but boosting your SEO doesnt have to cost a fortune. At Cubic Promote, we lean heavily on free tools like Google Search Console to spot quick website fixes and Ubersuggest to find new content ideas. AnswerThePublic is another gem we use to see what real people are searching for, so we can write blogs that actually match what customers need. Little things like adding a free SEO plugin to your website can make a big difference too. The trick is staying consistent. Even small tweaks, made regularly with the right free tools, can seriously lift your online visibility over time.

Discover Lets Talk Business Topics

Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Yes  Significant efforts are being made

No  Much more needs to be done

Some progress  But there are still critical gaps

Vote

View Results
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Australias hospitality, retail, and frontline sectors have a new weapon in the fight against talent shortages: EH Jobs. Launched today by Employment Hero, this mobile app is shaking up the hiring game, offering SMEs a free, fast, and mobile-first way to connect with job seekers.

Unlike traditional job boards, EH Jobs is built for the smartphone era, where candidates hunt for work between shifts or on the go. The apps AI-driven features, like SmartMatch, pair SMEs with local talent in seconds, slashing recruitment time and costs. It also taps into the 80% of jobs never publicly advertised, giving smaller businesses a leg up in a tight labor market.

David Holland, Managing Director of Talent Solutions at Employment Hero, told reporters: The job hunt has changed. People arent sitting at a desktop scrolling through listings anymore. Job hunting has become part of daily life; Aussies are looking for work between shifts, on the train, on their phone during smoko, even while scrolling TikTok.

Tailored for fast-paced SME hiring

With employment growth stuck at 1.5% quarter-on-quarter and wages inching up by just 0.7%, SMEs face mounting pressure to fill roles quickly. EH Jobs delivers with features tailored for shift-based hiring: map-based candidate searches, AI-polished profiles with video intros, and direct 1:1 chats with applicants. Holland highlighted the apps speed: EH Jobs is designed for that reality, a fast, mobile-first experience that removes friction on both sides of the marketplace and integrates with how people use technology today. Our record so far is just 18 minutes from a candidate seeing a business listing and successfully scheduling a Trial Shift. I expect that record will continue to tumble.

The apps focus on casual and frontline roles is a boon for SMEs, which employ 70% of Australias workforce but often lack the HR firepower of larger firms. This isnt just another job board, Holland said. Were bringing a sense of immediacy to job seeking, especially for those in casual and shift-based roles, where speed and simplicity make all the difference.

EH Jobs also integrates with Employment Heros broader platform, offering SMEs tools to streamline HR and payroll. A new feature, ShiftSync, allows SMEs to post real-time shift openings directly to the app, instantly notifying nearby candidates who match the job criteria. This ensures businesses can fill last-minute vacancies, a common pain point in hospitality and retail. EH Jobs is the front door to a more connected employment experience; one that benefits jobseekers and businesses alike, Holland added.

For more information, visit employmenthero.com

Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
On the evening of May 5, the Anhui Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism announced that during this years May Day holiday, visitor arrivals and tourism spending in our province rose by 10.5% and 11.4% year-on-year, both reaching historic highs.

It is reported that during the May Day period, province-wide visitor arrivals and tourism spending rose by 10.5% and 11.4% year-on-year respectively. A-level tourist attractions received 16.866 million visits, with ticket revenue of 240 million yuan. Of these, 5A attractions received 2.087 million visits (up 15% year-on-year) and generated 110 million yuan in ticket revenue (up 16.4% year-on-year). Huangshan Scenic Area saw 147,000 visits; Jiuhua Mountain Scenic Area saw 234,000 visits; Tianzhu Mountain Scenic Area saw 187,000 visits; and the Southern Anhui Ancient Villages (Xidi and Hongcun) saw 172,000 visits.

In Hefei, twelve new cultural-tourism projects opened, and 28,000 visitors explored the Hechai 1972 Creative Parks Yuan Xiaoao Magic Bookstore, enjoying a fusion of literary ambience and cutting-edge technology. Shushan Dream Moon Island and other sites became new check-in landmarks. Anqings Dananmen Cultural Street officially opened, with lion dance parades and cultural markets attracting 277,000 visitors. Bengbus full-sensory VR project Meet the Classic of Mountains and Seas deeply integrates regional culture and modern technology, offering visitors a uniquely novel experience.

At the lakeside teahouse in Zhongmiao, Chaohu, folk music performances, Hanfu flower-pin workshops, and handicraft activities welcomed 52,000 tourists. Wuhus Maren Qifeng Scenic Area staged a robot performance troupe, driving a 29.2% year-on-year increase in visitors. Tianmen Mountain launched its first Tianmen Mountain in the Textbook live restoration project, receiving 60,000 visits. Chizhous Dawang Cave Scenic Area created Chinas first Journey to the West digital light-and-shadow karst cave, boosting attendance by 77% year-on-year.

The inaugural China Xinjiang Folk Art Seasons outstanding program tour visited Maanshans Caishiji and Wuhus Jiuzi Bay scenic spots, attracting over 100,000 visitors to immerse themselves in ethnic culture. Huaibeis Old Power Plant Industrial Museum introduced immersive experiences like Time Film and AI costume-swap, with its online reservation channels fully booked at all times. Emerging new formatstrendy markets, mountain cafes, and camping basesgained popularity, and low-altitude tours at Qinglong Bay in Ningguo and Luogang Park in Hefei, along with paragliding in Shexian County, drew large crowds eager to experience the thrill of walking in the clouds.





Source: Anhui Business Daily
For SMEs, measuring and managing carbon emissions is key to staying competitive, building consumer trust, and preparing for future regulations. Whether youre just beginning your environmental journey or aiming for carbon neutrality, the right tools can make all the difference.

This week, we dive into top carbon footprint calculators tailored to the needs of Australian SMEs. Each tool offers a practical way to track emissions, reduce impact, and communicate your climate commitment with confidence.

ClimateClever

Best for: Local engagement and practical action

ClimateClever is a homegrown Australian platform tailored to help SMEs, schools, and households measure and reduce their carbon footprints. It tracks emissions across key operational areas such as energy, water, waste, and travel, allowing businesses to monitor their impact in real time. One of its standout features is the ability to benchmark performance against similar businesses and develop targeted reduction strategies based on that data. The platform also supports goal-setting and progress tracking, making it easy for teams to stay accountable. For small businesses new to sustainability, ClimateClever offers an affordable, intuitive way to get started with tools built specifically for the Australian context.

GreenFeet

Best for: Quick-start sustainability tracking with visual insights

GreenFeet is a user-friendly carbon calculator designed for businesses wanting to jumpstart their emissions tracking without complex onboarding. It covers emissions across scopes 1, 2, and 3, including electricity, fuel, travel, waste, and supply chain inputs. The standout feature is its visual dashboard that simplifies emissions data into digestible, actionable insightsideal for time-poor SME owners. GreenFeet also provides tailored reduction recommendations and facilitates team collaboration, making it easier for businesses to align internal sustainability goals.

Pathzero

Best for: Data-driven SMEs ready to scale their carbon reporting

Pathzero offers a cloud-based emissions management solution for SMEs aiming to integrate carbon tracking into their existing business systems. It supports emissions measurement aligned with the globally recognised Greenhouse Gas Protocol and can automate data collection through accounting software integrations like Xero and MYOB. Its portfolio-level reporting features make it ideal for agencies, consultants, or businesses managing multiple clients or branches. Pathzero is especially suited to SMEs with growth ambitions or those embedded in larger supply chains where carbon transparency is increasingly required. Its also a powerful tool for businesses preparing for more advanced ESG disclosures or net-zero commitments.

Avarni

Best for: Enterprise compliance and supply chain decarbonization

Avarni is an AI-powered carbon accounting platform built for enterprises, consultants, and global supply chains to automate climate disclosures and accelerate decarbonization. Designed to handle the complexity of Scope 1, 2, and especially Scope 3 emissions, Avarni replaces months of manual data gathering with an audit-ready, automated solution that integrates across over 1,000 systems. The platform stands out with its customizable dashboards, emissions scenario modeling, and supplier engagement tools, helping businesses and their partners measure, report, and forecast carbon reduction strategies at scale. With support for global standards like Australias ASRS and Californias SB 253, Avarni enables faster compliance while maintaining technical excellence and robust data accuracy. For large organizations under pressure to meet net zero goals, Avarni offers a clear path from emissions measurement to action, transforming climate reporting from a compliance headache into a strategic driver of sustainability.

Australian Governments Climate Active Tools

Best for: Formal carbon neutral certification

The Climate Active initiative, backed by the Australian Government, provides free tools and step-by-step guidance for SMEs looking to measure and manage emissions. It also offers a certification program that enables businesses to achieve and promote official carbon neutral status under a nationally recognised standard. The tools cover all key business activities and provide clarity on how to accurately report emissions, identify reduction opportunities, and offset responsibly. For SMEs, Climate Active not only builds credibility but also enhances trust with customers, investors, and regulators. Its particularly valuable for businesses in competitive sectors where sustainability credentials can influence purchasing decisions and brand preference.

Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
The Department of State Services (DSS) has delisted Lanre Arogundade, the Executive Director of the International Press Centre (IPC), from its security watchlist after nearly 40 years of sustained surveillance and intimidation.

The development was made public on Tuesday during the 3rd Nigerian Media Leaders Summit in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Announcing the development, the President of the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria, Mr. Muskilu Mojeed, revealed that the DSS Director-General, Mr. Adeola Ajayi, personally conveyed the agencys decision to IPI Nigeria during a recent engagement.

The move reportedly followed relentless pressure and advocacy by the media institute.

The DSS decision followed sustained and intensive campaign by IPI Nigeria to get Mr. Arogundades name removed from the watchlist, a statement signed by IPI Nigerias Legal Adviser and Advocacy Committee Chairman, Mr. Tobi Soniyi stated.

For about 40 years, Mr. Arogundade was subjected to persistent harassment and embarrassment, including brief detention by security operatives at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, the statement added.

Arogundades presence on the DSS watchlist dates back to his tenure as President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) between 1984 and 1985, during the era of military dictatorship, when student activists and pro-democracy voices were frequently targeted by state security forces, Nigerian fashion.

Despite previous assurances by the secret police to clear his name, the activist-journalist continued to face undue scrutiny, most recently being detained at the Lagos airport in 2022 upon return from a journalism training overseas.

At the Abeokuta summit, the announcement of his delisting was met with applause from media leaders. A visibly relieved Arogundade expressed deep gratitude to IPI Nigeria for its unwavering commitment to justice.

In 2022, SaharaReporters reported that Press Freedom and Safety of Journalists by Field Monitors demanded a stop to what it called the continued harassment of Lanre Arogundade, and other journalists in the country by the Department of State Security and other security agencies in Nigeria.

The group demanded an unreserved apology from the DSS to Arogundade for confiscating his mobile phone and briefly detaining him in February 2022.
Malaysias national carmaker Proton is making a comeback to Singapore after a decade of absence with its first electric vehicle, which is estimated to start at around S$174,000 (US$134,000).

The model, e.MAS 7, was showcased at The Car Expo 2025 held in the city-state over the weekend, Malaysian newspaper The Star reported.

It comes in two variants, Prime and Premium, both of which feature a high-performance 12-in-1 electric drive system and an Aegis short blade battery.

Proton has said that the vehicle will be launched in Singapore as a limited Founders Edition and that its return to the city-state was in line with Singapores push toward greener mobility.

It noted that EV adoption in the city-state has been rising steadily, with market share growing from 12% in 2022 to 18% in 2023 and expected to hit 55% by 2027.

The e.MAS 7 could arrive in Singapore showrooms as early as this August, according to Singapore news site Mothership.

Local dealer Vincar, which has been appointed as Protons official distributor, will open a flagship showroom in the Leng Kee motor belt.

While Proton has not officially revealed prices in Singapore, car news portal Paul Tan estimated that the e.MAS 7 could start at around S$174,000.

In Malaysia, the model is priced from RM105,800 (US$32,400) for the Prime variant and RM119,800 for the Premium. It was the countrys best-selling EV in the first four months of 2025.

Proton vehicles were last sold in Singapore in 2014 through its subsidiary before Chinese automotive group Geely acquired a stake in the company and revamped the brand's product lineup, according to The Straits Times.

Geely also owns several other auto brands in Singapore, including Lotus, Polestar, Volvo and Zeekr.
5 key facts behind the controversy over 1,000 durian trees cut down in Malaysia

The Malaysian governments recent move to cut down 1,000 durian trees in April has sparked protests, raised concerns over farmers land rights, and triggered an anti-corruption investigation.

Heres what you need to know:

Why were the trees cut down?

The land dispute in Pahangs Raub town began on April 8 when the government chopped down around 200 durian trees it said were grown on illegal land. Within days, 1,000 trees were felled.

The Malaysian government claimed the trees were grown on state-controlled land without legal authorization, prompting the destruction to reclaim the land.

Pahang authorities denied violating any court order, stating that the farmers legal applications to maintain the orchards were dismissed by an appeal court in May 2024.

How did farmers respond?

Farmers, represented by non-government organization Save Musang King Alliance, protested the enforcement.

Reports from local media indicated that citizens blocked authorities access to the farms with banners to protect the durian trees.

The Save Musang King Alliance claimed that a court order in May last year blocked the government from demolishing the farms.

"Today, the farmers' legal team sent an official letter to the Pahang government demanding an immediate halt to the tree-cutting to prevent further damage to the orchards," Chow Yu Hui, chairman of the alliance and member of parliament, said in early April.

How valuable were the trees?

Many of the chopped down durian trees were of the Musang King variety, a special type of the fruit which is known for high prices thanks to its unique flavor.

Musang King durians can be sold for as high as US$15 per kilogram, which place it at the premium price range compared to other varieties such as Vietnams Ri6 and Thailands Monthong.



The Royal Pahang Durian Group, which holds the lease over the disputed land in Pahang, has offered to lease the land to farmers if they agree to sell the fruit to it at $9.50 per kilogram, or 30% lower than market price.

Some farmers claimed that they had settled on the land since 1974, and some of the trees they had grown were up to 40 years in age, but the government said it found trees only eight or nine years old, which indicated recent encroachment.

Are officials under investigation?

Yes. The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission is probing whether current or former officials were complicit in the land dispute.

"Yes, we already have a list. Considering the case dates back around 10 years or more, some of the officials involved have since retired," said its chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki, as reported by state media Bernama.

So far no arrest on any former official has been made.

How important are durian trees to Malaysias economy?

Durian is among Malaysias key export fruits to China. Last year, Malaysia delivered US$212 million worth of fresh durian to China, thanks to a bilateral protocol signed in August.

The Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China expects Malaysias durian exports to China to rise by 15-20% this year, driven by stronger consumer demand for the Musang King variety, which can compete with other high-end fruits such as Japanese strawberry and grape.

Although there have been efforts to grow Musang King durian on Chinas land, the chambers chairman Loh Wee Keng said that these initiatives fell short of Malaysian standards.

"Hainan Musang King cannot replace the Malaysian original," he said.
Amid rising political tensions in Murshidabad, Swami Pradiptananda alias Kartik Maharaj, the head of Bharat Sevashram Sanghas Beldanga branch, has expressed apprehension over a possible arrest following a veiled criticism from chief minister Mamata Banerjee.

The chief minister, while addressing a public meeting during her visit to Murshidabad on Monday, strongly condemned alleged inflammatory remarks made by certain religious figures, without naming anyone. In her address, the chief minister remarked: There are two-three people creating unrest. They call themselves great religious leaders. I have evidence of what happened in Murshidabad. I will reveal everything at the right time. Although not named, Kartik Maharaj interpreted the statement as a direct reference to him. If I am indeed the person being referred to, then the chief minister, who commands the entire administration, can have me arrested anytime. But I will not be intimidated, he said, speaking at a religious programme organised by the Bangiya Hindu Suraksha Manch at Shyamnagar in Barrackpore district last night.

Advertisement

Addressing his supporters, Kartik Maharaj said: Do I have such power that I can shut down electricity for 48 hours? If I had plans to incite riots, why would I do it in Murshidabad? I could have done it in Hindu-majority areas. The religious leader, who has been vocal about recent incidents in Murshidabad, claimed: There has been rampant looting of Hindu households. A father and son were brutally murdered. I am only protesting against such atrocities. His associates confirmed that there is a growing fear of his arrest.

Advertisement

However, the seer made it clear that he is not afraid and continues to travel and speak at gatherings across the state, where large numbers reportedly come to meet him. Kartik Maharaj also referred to the recent re-arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das Prabhu in Bangladesh, stating that legal efforts were underway for his release. Even before his release order was executed, he was taken into custody again in connection with a lawyers murder case. A lawyer has been appointed in the Supreme Court to fight his case.
Two weeks after the deadly terror attack at Pahalgam claimed 26 lives, the Trinamul Congress on Tuesday questioned the BJP-led Central governments inability to track down the terrorists and show accountability to grieving families.

The party also posed 14 questions to the Modi government highlighting the lack of accountability by Centre and its callous approach towards safety and security of people.

Advertisement

Sharing a post on X, TMC slammed the inaction even 330+ hours after the attack. 14 days since the #PahalgamTerroristAttack. No accountability. No action. The masterminds behind the massacre remain free. Here are 14 questions the Modi government must answer.

Advertisement

The party has demanded answers on why the perpetrators remain at large and the status of the investigation. It has questioned the Prime Ministers decision to prioritise electioneering in Bihar over attending an all-party meeting. In addition to seeking clarity on actions taken against security agencies that ignored prior warnings, TMC has also criticised the lack of forces near Baisaran, which is a major tourist hub.

The party also raised concerns over what steps are being taken towards ensuring return of Bengals Purnam Kumar Shaw, a BSF jawan reportedly captured by Pakistani Rangers. The party has also called out the governments silence on hate crimes and online harassment of victims families, including Himanshi Narwal.

On Tuesday, Rajya Sabha MP Sagarika Ghose had also slammed BJP-backed trolls for harassing Narwal, who appealed for peace and amity amid heightened communal rhetoric. Those who are trolling #HimanshiNarwal only reveal their sick depraved mindsets. A brave widow of a martyred navy officer killed by terrorists speaks of the need to maintain communal peace. Instead of lauding Himanshi as a courageous daughter of India, Himanshi is being abused by the Right wing @BJP4India -sponsored IT cell or the hate factory that lives on hate. Nafrat chhodo, desh jodo! ( Shun hatred, build the nation) she wrote on X.

Trinamuls Rajya Sabha MP Ritabrata Banerjee, on the topic said: The Union government admitted to security lapses. The grieving families of the deceased held the Modi-led government accountable. When will the real action begin? The only thing we have seen from the Modi government is symbolic and performative gestures. Nothing else! Where are the perpetrators of this dreadful crime? Why are the perpetrators of this avoidable tragedy still at large? Who will give justice to the grieving families? Who is accountable? Mr 56-inch-PM and Mr Amit Shah, you owe the nation answers.
Coconut prices soar across Asia as supply hit by climate

Coconut prices have risen to record levels in Vietnam, the Philippines and Thailand due to a supply shortage caused by climate change and pests.

Major fruit exporter Vina T&T is paying up to VND220,000 (US$8.47) for a dozen coconuts at the farm gate, the highest prices ever.

Industry insiders said coconut prices have more than doubled from the same time last year, and traders are struggling to lay their hands on supply.

"Coconut prices are rising as fast as gold prices," Nguyen Dinh Tung, Vina T&Ts CEO, said.

The company exports seven containers of coconut per week, but that only meets two-thirds of its foreign buyers demand.

A vendor prepares coconuts for sale at a roadside stall in Hanoi on July 1, 2022. Photo by AFP

A similar trend is seen in Sri Lanka, the Philippines and Thailand, all large exporters of the nut. Prices have risen by 50-100% year-on-year in these countries.

In Thailand, the fruit now retails for $2.9 per kilogram, and in the Philippines, the rate is up to $4.28.

Prolonged extreme weather has disrupted supply chains, with El Nino causing droughts and La Nina bringing heavy rains and off-season storms in key coconut-growing regions in these countries.

Pest outbreaks have further affected yields, while demand from markets like China and the U.S. continues to push prices higher.

Meanwhile, Vietnamese coconuts are gaining ground with their competitive pricing and reliable quality.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment reports strong growth in Vietnams fresh coconut exports in the first four months of this year, with notable increases to the U.S. and China.

The worlds fifth largest coconut exporter has 200,000 hectares of orchards that yield an estimated two million tons annually.

Last year exports of coconuts and coconut products were worth nearly $1.1 billion, with the former accounting for $390 million. Vietnamese coconuts are now sold in over 40 countries and territories, with the U.S. and China being the top markets.

From August 2023, when the U.S. opened its market to Vietnamese coconuts, exports surged 11-fold in less than a year.

In the first two months of 2025 exports to the market grew by 46% year-on-year.

China has also become a major market following the August 2024 signing of a formal export protocol, which spurred a surge in shipments.

China consumes around four billion coconuts annually, including 2.6 billion fresh. Vietnam is the third largest supplier with 20% of the former number.

Dang Phuc Nguyen, general secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, said Vietnamese coconuts are prized for their distinctive flavor and popular in the U.S. and China during summer.

He forecast fresh coconut exports to hit a record $500 million this year.
Its a pity Adrien Brody beat Ralph Fiennes to the Oscar. While Brodys brooding presence in The Brutalist goes a long way in irradiating the aridity of the film, what Ralph Fiennes does in Conclave is something far more momentous. In this discourse on papal politics, Fiennes plays Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, a candidate for papacy after the Pope passes away, leaving the question of his successor in a conundrum.

While the skirmish for succession is no different from what happens when a chief minister of an Indian state passes away, the focus here is on sifting through the layers of protocol to come to the rather sobering conclusion: the rites of religion are as transmogrifying as politics. There are no unbreakable moral and ethical rules in either activity.

Advertisement

Director Edward Berger has earlier directed films in German. Conclave is his first English-language film. But be warned; about twenty per cent of the film is in Latin, the language of the Catholic religion. While such linguistic scrupulosity lends an aura of immovable authenticity to the proceeds, it also assists the narrative in being what it strives to be: an immersive drama of electorally chosen supremacy.

Advertisement

The dramatic conflicts come in welters of mystery in the Agatha Christie mould. One candidate for the papacy was called by the dying pope to his deathbed, where they had a heated argument. Another candidate, an African priest Joshua Adeyemi (Lucian Msamati), is disgraced when a woman who had a relationship with him in the past shows up hours before the election of the new pope.

More than anything else, Conclave reveals the priests as humans thrust with the responsibility of divinity, sometimes reluctantly. My favourite moment in this seamlessly stitched stretch of cinema is when Thomas Lawrence burst out in anguish, saying he has no ambition of being a pope. Ralph Fiennes performance is a force of Nature.

Even the most dramatic episodes are handled with utmost restraint. There is a kind of awed hush shrouding the entire narration. We can almost hear the heartbeats of the expectant candidates to be the new Pope. After a point, it matters little who is elected for the job. What we feel is the heat and tension of a job that wants the candidate to be impeccable within the universal moral bandwidth. To err may be human, but it doesnt apply to the Pope.

Conclave is shot like a piece of art by cinematographer Stephane Fontaine. Each frame radiates a divine light. Every actor is born for the job. There are hardly any women characters in the film, making this one of the most vital onscreen Vatican City since Man invented religion.

Rating:***
In the wake of Operation Sindoor, Pakistani actress Mahira Khan stirred controversy with a fiery Instagram post, criticizing Indias military response and media narratives.

Her statement, shared days after the Indian Army launched targeted strikes on terror hideouts across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), has gone viral  drawing sharp criticism and support alike.

Advertisement

The operation, conducted on May 7, was a direct retaliation to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, South Kashmir. The brutal assault claimed 26 lives, most of them tourists.

Advertisement

Eyewitness accounts revealed that the attackers singled out victims based on their religion before opening fire  a chilling detail that shocked the nation and further escalated tensions.

#BreakingNews | A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched OPERATION SINDOOR, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed: Ministry of Defence. pic.twitter.com/pn4YTmxL05  The Statesman (@TheStatesmanLtd) May 6, 2025

In what Indian officials described as a precise and coordinated strike, the armed forces targeted nine terror camps  four in Pakistan and five in PoK. Dubbed Operation Sindoor, the mission aimed to dismantle key militant infrastructure and send a strong message against cross-border terrorism. The move was widely hailed in India, with social media users and political leaders applauding the swift response.

However, emotional reaction of Mahira Khan painted a different picture. I am grateful that I live in a country where I am not dictated to say what I have to. I have a voice and I CAN use it, she wrote.

The actress went on to accuse Indian media of fueling hatred. She alleged that many of Indias influential voices remain silent in the face of genocide and war crimes.

Khans post did not mention the Pahalgam killings but condemned Indias military action as unjustified and provocative.

You attack cities in the middle of the night and call it a victory? Shame on you, she added, pledging unwavering loyalty to Pakistan and calling for peace.
A 12-year old girl and a 10-year old boy were among at least 10 civilians killed due to heavy artillery shelling by Pakistan Army in the border town of Poonch in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday.

Reports said the casualties also include two women. Three civilians were killed elsewhere in overnight heavy firing and shelling by Pakistan military along the Line of Control (LoC) and the international border (IB).

Advertisement

The Indian Army is responding to the shelling in equal measure, they said on the ceasefire violations by Pakistani forces after India carried missile strikes against nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday.

Advertisement

Those killed have been identified as Mohammad (Mendhar); Saleem Hussain (Balakot); Ruby Kour (Mankote); Mohammad Zain, 10 years, (village Kalani near Christ school Poonch); Mohammad Akram (55 yrs) Poonch; Amrik Singh, Mohalla Sandigate, Poonch; Ranjit Singh (Sandigate); Zoya Khan (12yrs), Kalani PS Mandi, near Christ school Poonch; Mohammad Rafi (36) village Kojra; and Mohammad Iqbal (45), Poonch.

Several residential houses have been damaged and many more civilians injured in different sectors of Poonch due to intense shelling by Pakistan, and their condition was stated to be stable.

Nine civilians, including three children, were injured due to shelling in the Uri sector of North Kashmir. Several houses have also been damaged in the area.

Authorities have ordered that all educational institutions in the five border districts of the Jammu region will remain closed on Wednesday.

In view of the prevailing situation, all schools, colleges and educational institutions in Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri and Poonch will remain closed today, Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar said on X.

A defence source said, During the night of 06-07 May 2025, Pakistan Army resorted to arbitrary firing including artillery shelling from posts across the Line of Control and IB opposite J&K.

Civilian flight operations at the Srinagar and Jammu airports that are close to the India-Pakistan border or in the vicinity of key Indian Air Force bases, have been suspended, reports said.

The United Nations (UN) Field Station in the border town of Poonch was targeted with artillery shelling by Pakistan troops on Wednesday morning. They are trying to strike even UN assets along LoC.

The UN Observers have been deployed in the area and other parts of J&K and PoK to supervise the ceasefire between India and Pakistan.

Official reports said that artillery shells fired from Pakistan fell just outside the gate of UN Field Station in Poonch. They are trying to strike even UN assets but missing.

A forest department complex in Poonch has been damaged due to shelling by Pakistan.

The authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have started evacuating people from villages in the border areas to safe locations following Wednesdays indiscriminate shelling by the Pakistan Army.

Civilian areas along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB) are being targeted by Pakistan.

Lt Governor Manoj Sinha took stock of the situation and ordered the deputy commissioners to immediately shift the villagers from the vulnerable areas.

The LG wrote on X; Ive also directed the DCs for shifting of villagers from vulnerable areas to safer locations and ensuring boarding, lodging, food, medicare and transportation. We will ensure the safety of every citizen. Jai Hind!

Took stock of the situation in border districts of J&K UT with all the senior administrative, police & district officials, including DCs of all the border districts. Im closely monitoring the situation & the government is fully prepared to deal with any eventuality, he added.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday while reviewing the border situation emphasized on safeguarding civilian lives.

The CM held a meeting in Srinagar to assess the security and preparedness along the LoC and International Border.

He wrote on X, Held a meeting to assess the security and preparedness along the border/LoC areas. Emphasis laid on safeguarding civilian lives, strengthening infrastructure, and ensuring swift response to any emerging challenges.
Security forces in Chhattisgarh have dealt a major blow to Left Wing Extremism, neutralising over 20 Maoists in a high intensity operation that took place in the dense forests along the borders of southern Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Maharashtra.

Launched under Operation Sankalp, the multi agency offensive marks one of the most significant counter insurgency successes in recent years. The encounter, which began on Monday, remains active as forces continue to tighten their hold on Maoist strongholds in the forest terrain.

Advertisement

Led by Inspector General P. Sundarraj, and directly supervised by CRPF authorities, the operation brings together the Central Reserve Police Forces elite CoBRA units, the District Reserve Guard (DRG), and the Bastar Fighters.

Advertisement

Acting on pinpoint intelligence, the joint teams launched a sustained assault on Maoist positions, resulting in the elimination of 20 to 22 insurgents.

Senior officials confirmed that the number of casualties in the Maoist camp may rise as search and combing operations continue. The encounter site remains under tight security, with forces establishing full tactical dominance over the area.

This operation is being seen as a milestone in Union Home Minister Amit Shahs Mission 2026, a strategy to completely eradicate Maoist insurgency. The scale and precision of the offensive reflect a decisive shift toward proactive, intelligence led counter insurgency tactics backed by political will at the highest level.

Officials have termed the development a decisive shift in the fight against LWE, noting that such large-scale neutralisation in a single coordinated strike is rare and indicative of the operational superiority security forces have achieved in the region.

Notably, no casualties have been reported among security personnel, an outcome attributed to meticulous planning, real time coordination, and enhanced ground intelligence.

Additional reinforcements have been mobilised to prevent Maoist regrouping or retaliation. The local authorities have issued safety advisories, urging civilians to avoid the operational zone.

Security analysts say the success of Operation Sankalp is the result of sustained efforts to modernise internal security forces and improve inter-agency synergy. The ongoing search operations also aim to recover arms, ammunition, and key documents from the encounter site.
Three civilians were killed in heavy artillery shelling by Pakistan Army from across the Line of Control (LOC) and the International Border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir, sources in the Indian Army said on Wednesday.

The Indian Army responded in a proportionate manner.

This comes after India targeted nine terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The strike by India came two weeks after the Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 people were killed.

Advertisement

Defence sources said; During the night of 06-07 May 2025, Pakistan Army resorted to arbitrary firing including Artillery shelling from posts across the Line of Control and IB opposite J&K.

Advertisement

Civilian flight operations at the Srinagar and Jammu airports that are close to the India-Pakistan border or in the vicinity of key Indian Air Force bases, have been suspended, reports said.

No civil flights will be operated from or to the Srinagar airport on Wednesday, according to airport officials.

Meanwhile, all education institutions across Jammu and Kashmir have been shut as a precautionary measure.

Reports said that the forest office complex in the border area of Poonch was badly damaged due to shelling by Pakistan.
A 7-year-old girl, a 10-year old boy, and two other minors were among at least twelve people killed in indiscriminate artillery shelling by Pakistan Army on the civilian areas of the border district of Poonch on Wednesday while 54 people were injured.

The Pakistani Army was shelling civilian areas of Poonch and other places along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB).

Advertisement

The Indian Army is responding to the shelling in equal measure, they said on the ceasefire violations by Pakistani forces after India carried missile strikes against nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Advertisement

Ayan (14) and Aruba (12), son and daughter of one Rameez Khan, were killed in the Kalaani village that was heavily pounded. 7-year-old Maryam Khatoon was killed in the Qazi Mohra village.

Others killed have been identified as Mohammad (Mendhar), Saleem Hussain (Balakot),Ruby Kour (Mankote), Mohammad Zain, 10 years, (village Kalani near Christ school Poonch), Mohammad Akram (55 yrs) Poonch, Amrik Singh, Mohalla Sandigate, Poonch, Ranjit Singh (Sandigate), Zoya Khan (12yrs), Kalani PS Mandi, near Christ school Poonch, Mohammad Rafi (36) village Kojra and Mohammad Iqbal (45),Poonch.

The Pakistani Army targeted civilian areas in Mendhar, Mankote, Balakote, Krishna Ghati, Sagra, and Shahpur Kirni areas along the LoC and also Poonch town, resulting in damage to dozens of houses. Civilians were also targeted in North Kashmirs Uri.

Three devotees were killed in a Gurdwara, a Muslim cleric lost his life when a madrassa was shelled and two persons died near the Christ school in Poonch. Several residential houses have been damaged and many more civilians injured in different sectors of Poonch due to intense shelling by Pakistan, and their condition was stated to be stable.

Nine civilians, including three children, were injured due to shelling in the Uri Sector of North Kashmir. Several houses have also been damaged in the area.

The Poonch administration has established shelter camps for the affected people.

Authorities have ordered that all educational institutions in the five border districts of the Jammu region.

Defence sources said; During the night of 06-07 May 2025, Pakistan Army resorted to arbitrary firing including Artillery shelling from posts across the Line of Control and IB opposite J&K.

Civilian flight operations at the Srinagar and Jammu airports that are close to the India-Pakistan border or in the vicinity of key Indian Air Force bases, have been suspended, reports said.

The United Nations (UN) Field Station in the border town of Poonch was targeted with artillery shelling by Pakistan troops on Wednesday morning. They are trying to strike even UN assets along the Line of Control (LoC).

The UN Observers have been deployed in the area and other parts of J&K and PoK to supervise the ceasefire between India and Pakistan.

Official reports said that artillery shells fired from Pakistan fell just outside the gate of UN Field Station in Poonch. A Forest Department complex in Poonch has been damaged due to shelling by Pakistan.

The authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have started evacuating people from villages in the border areas to safer locations following Wednesdays indiscriminate shelling by the Pakistan Army.

Lt Governor Manoj Sinha took stock of the situation and ordered the deputy commissioners to immediately shift the villagers from the vulnerable areas. Ive also directed the DCs for shifting of villagers from vulnerable areas to safer locations and ensuring boarding, lodging, food, medicare and transportation. We will ensure the safety of every citizen, the LG wrote on X.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, while reviewing the border situation on Wednesday, emphasised on safeguarding civilian lives. He held a meeting in Srinagar to assess the security and preparedness along the LoC and International Border.

He wrote on X; Held a meeting to assess the security and preparedness along the border/LoC areas. Emphasis laid on safeguarding civilian lives, strengthening infrastructure, and ensuring swift response to any emerging challenges.
May. An Indian Army soldier, Lance Naik Dinesh Kumar, was on Wednesday killed during indiscriminate shelling by Pakistan troops in the Poonch Sector.

Lance Naik Dinesh Kumar was posted in the 5 FD Regiment, Army said.

Advertisement

The White Knight Corps of the Indian Army wrote on X; GOC and all ranks of White Knight Corps salute the supreme sacrifice of L/Nk Dinesh Kumar of 5 Fd Regt, who laid down his life on 07 May 25 during Pakistan Army shelling.

Advertisement

We also stand in solidarity with all victims of the targeted attacks on innocent civilians in the Poonch Sector.

Atleast 15 civilians were killed and 54 injured earlier during the day due to shelling by Pakistan in the civilian areas of Poonch following Indias Operation Sindoor.

India struck nine terror sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on the intervening night of May 6 and 7 in response to the Pahalgam atatck.
The Special ACB (Cases) Court has remanded Bagidora MLA Jai Krishna Patel and his cousin Vicky Patel in judicial custody and forwarded them to jail in connection with the infamous Rs 20 lakh bribe case involving the Bharat Adivasi Party (BAP) leader.

MLA Patel and his cousin were presented before the court following the expiry of their police custody on Wednesday. The court ordered judicial custody for the duo in the central jail here.

Advertisement

The ACB sleuths also presented MLAs aides Jaswant and Jagram to seek police remand for them in ACB custody. The court remanded them in two-day police custody.

Advertisement

Meanwhile, an ACB team visited Patels residence at the MLA Nagar Apartment here on Wednesday afternoon to conduct searches and check the footage of the CCTV installed in the apartment.

The ACB on Sunday caught MLA Patel, who represents the Bagidora (ST) constituency in Banswara, for accepting a bribe of Rs 20 lakh. The money was allegedly taken in exchange for dropping three assembly questions related to mining affairs in the KarauliToda Bhim area.

Patel said, This is a political conspiracy; I am being implicated in this conspiracy.

This is the first instance in Rajasthan when a sitting legislator has been nabbed for accepting a bribe.
Amid the ongoing national debate over the status of Waqf properties and the rights of the Muslim community, Maulana Muhammad Sajid Rashidi, President of the All India Imam Association, described the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 here on Wednesday as a historic and pro-nation move, while launching a scathing attack on the Congress party and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

The Congress used Muslims as a mere vote bank for over 70 years and never formulated serious policies for their education, healthcare, employment, or religious property protection, Maulana Rashidi alleged.

Advertisement

Referring to over 250 bighas of Waqf land in Delhi, he claimed successive Congress governments illegally handed the land to favoured builders and political aides instead of returning it to the community or using it for public welfare. This is not limited to Delhi; similar land scams have plagued Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Rajasthan, he added.

Advertisement

Taking aim at Mamata Banerjee, Rashidi criticised the West Bengal chief ministers reported remark that the amended Waqf law would not be implemented in Bengal. If the law benefits the community, why are people protesting in Bengal? Why were Muslim demonstrators baton-charged and booked, he asked, adding, This proves that the issue is more about political posturing than public interest.

Quoting the findings of the Sachar Committee, Ranganath Mishra Commission, and other studies, Maulana Rashidi highlighted the continued backwardness of Indian Muslims accusing the Congress of ignoring concrete recommendations. Unlike Congress, the Modi government has laid the foundation for transparent reforms in Waqf governance, introducing digital record-keeping and public accountability, he added.

He urged the Muslim community to shift its focus from emotional politics to real developmental metrics. We can no longer confine our children to madrasas alone. They must access mainstream education, technical training, and administrative services. For that, securing and utilising our Waqf properties is essential.

Appealing directly to the prime minister, he said: We ask Modi to view Muslims as a reserve force  a community that wants development, not division. We want to stand shoulder to shoulder with the nation.

Calling for introspection within the community, Rashidi added, Stop judging leaders by what they say. Ask who builds schools for our children, who protects our land, and who digitises our property records. These are the real questions.

He concluded by saying that the Waqf Amendment Bill is not just a step towards Muslim welfare, but a wider reform for transparency and justice across society. Any party opposing it is not just anti-Muslim, but anti-progress and anti-accountability.

Among those present at the press meet were Mohammad Kamal Khan, Rafia Naaz, and Tariq Imran among others.
Cutting across party affiliations, leaders in Bihar hailed Indian armed forces for successfully executing Operation Sindoor, dismantling terrorist camps in Pakistan. They also expressed solidarity with the Central government for its swift action following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam.

Reacting to the success of Operation Sindoor, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar praised Indian Army and PM Narendra Modi, and said that whole country is proud of them.

Advertisement

In a message posted on X, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said, In response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on 22 April 2025, the Indian Army targeted nine terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor.

Advertisement

The whole country is united against terrorism. The whole country is proud of the courage and valour of the Indian Army. We all have unwavering faith and pride in the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Jai Hind, he said.

Leader of Opposition in Bihar Assembly Tejashwi Prasad Yadav wrote on Twitter that 140 crore Indians are with the government in this fight.

He wrote, India, Indians and the Indian Army have never tolerated any kind of terrorism and separatism in their country and will never do so. The Indian Army has always protected the wombs of mothers, the wrists of sisters, and the sindoor on their foreheads.

We believe in truth, non-violence and peace. If our unity, integrity and sovereignty are attacked then we know how to respond and give a befitting reply. In this fight against terrorism, 140 crore Indians are with the Indian Army and the government, he added.

BJP leader and Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar Vijay Kumar Sinha congratulated the Indian Army, PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah on the success of Operation Sindoor. He said that India has avenged the Pahalgam terror attack and has given a clear message to the world.

Reacting to the Indian Armys Operation Sindoor, Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor said that the whole country and the Jan Suraaj family support the armys action.

He said, Whatever action the army takes against terrorism is absolutely right. There should be no politics. The army and experts should be given a free hand against terrorism. This is a serious issue. Lives of Indian citizens and soldiers are at stake. So the media and everyone else should be patient.
The view at Phu Chi Fa Forest Park, Chiang Rai, Thailand. Photo by Tourism Authority of Thailand

Rare armed clashes in Laos believed to be linked to drug smuggling have forced Thailand to close a popular mountain viewing point on the border and prompted a security warning from the United States.

Thai national park officials said on Monday that the Phu Chi Fa scenic spot, on the border with Laos in northern Chiang Rai province, has been closed until further notice.

The U.S. embassy in Vientiane urged Americans thinking of traveling to Bokeo Province to reconsider after reports of "clashes between the Lao army and unidentified armed groups."

"Local officials have requested raised security levels, which will include an increase in military checkpoints and troop presence," the embassy said on its website.

Unrest is rare in Laos but the country forms part of the Golden Triangle -- covering the border areas with Myanmar and Thailand -- that has been a hub for Southeast Asia's lucrative drug trade for decades.

State-run Lao National Radio reported on Tuesday that a border patrol clashed with drug smugglers in Bokeo on Saturday and arrested four suspects.

The report said that some border patrol officials were killed and wounded in the clashes, without giving details.

Police in Laos did not respond to AFP's request for comment.

Suphakorn Phromcharoen, the police chief in Thailand's Wiang Kaen district, across the border from the location of the clashes, told AFP that at least one stray bullet had hit a house on the Thai side of the border.

Thai authorities estimate that at least one soldier may have been killed and more than a dozen wounded.
India on Wednesday launched Operation Sindoor, carrying out precision strikes on nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The strikes came in response to the last months brutal terror attack in Pahalgam in which 26 civilians were killed by Pakistan-backed terrorists.

The operation has prompted a wave of reactions from politicians and public figures, who lauded the bravery of our armed forces and wished for their safety.

Advertisement

From Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Union Minister Piyush Goyal to spiritual leader Sadhguru, several leaders and public figures have hailed the armed forces for carrying out precision strikes on terror bases in Pakistan and PoK.

Advertisement

In a late night post on X, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh wrote: Bharat Mata Ki Jai.

His cabinet colleague Piyush Goyal also made the same tweet. He wrote Bharat Mata ki Jai with a hastag #OperationSindoor on X.

RJD leader and former Bihar Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav said he was proud of the Indian Army and its brave soldiers.

Jai Hind, Jai Bharat. There should be neither terror nor separatism! We are proud of our brave soldiers and the Indian Army, Yadav wrote on X.

His father and former CM Lalu Yadav also hailed the Indian armed forces. Jai Hind, Jai Hind Ki Sena, Lalu posted on X.

Besides politicians, public figures have also reacted to the Indian strikes tagreting terrorist camps.

Spritual leader Sadhguru wished for the safety and success of the armed forces. Wishing Our Forces Safety and Success. Blessings. -Sg #OperationSindoor, he wrote in a post on X.

Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra said: Our prayers are with our forces. One nation, together we stand.

Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor and carried out precision air strikes on terror camps at nine locations across Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the brutal Pahalgam terror attack.

A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched OPERATION SINDOOR, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed, said the Ministry of Defence.

The ministry further informed that no Pakistani military facilities were targeted dueing the strikes as India demonstrated considerable restraint.

Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution, the statement further read.
Hyderabads famous confectionery, Karachi Bakery, has put up the Indian Tricolour on its signage in some of its outlets in the city after the brand was targeted by protestors in Visakhapatnam yesterday in view of the escalation of tension between India and Pakistan, post Pahalgam terror attack.

This is not the first time the brand that was established by Khanchand Ramnani in 1953 after he migrated to India following Partition has been targeted. Additional police personnel were deployed by Hyderabad Police around its stores to avoid any untoward incident.

Advertisement

Tricolours were pasted on the signage of the Karachi Bakery at its Begumpet store to emphasise its Indianness after its store at Visakhapatnam was attacked by a group of men. There were also additional police personnel at the storefront. However, Karachi Bakery has never faced any vandalism in Hyderabad so far.

Advertisement

An organisation called Jana Jagarana Samiti staged a protest at the store of Karachi Bakery at Venkojipalem in Visakhapatnam yesterday, demanding that the bakery change its name and even urged the Centre to file a sedition case against the owners.

In 2019, in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack, the bakery was vandalised in Indiranagar of Bengaluru. Although the owners had time and again iterated that the founder, Khanchand Ramnani, had named the small bakery he had begun in Moazzam Jahi Market in Hyderabad after the city he had left behind, every time there is an escalation of tension, it comes under attack.

In the past, the bakery owners were forced to cover up their brand name and distribute pamphlets to reinforce their Indianness and iterate that it is an Indian brand, set up by an Indian. Even today, a section of the netizens demanded that the bakery change its name since it was named after a city in Pakistan. Others, however, defended it, pointing out that it was a business owned by a Sindhi family who were forced to migrate due to Partition and should not face such backlash. The iconic bakery known for its fruit biscuits, Dilkhush, and plum cakes, is part of Hyderabads heritage.
India launched Operation Sindoor on the intervening night of May 67, targeting nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK).

The joint operation by the Indian Armed Forces was conducted in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 tourists.

Advertisement

According to reports, India employed a range of precision weaponry including SCALP cruise missiles, HAMMER smart bombs, and loitering munitions, to execute the high-impact strike.

Advertisement

The SCALP missile, also known as Storm Shadow, is a long-range, air-launched cruise missile with a range exceeding 250 kilometers, designed for deep-strike operations.

The HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range) bomb, a smart precision-guided munition, was used to destroy fortified structures such as bunkers and multi-storey buildings used as training and logistics hubs by Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

In this highly classified operation, India struck nine terror camps affiliated with Hizb-ul-Mujahideen (HM), JeM, and LeT. These are Markaz Subhan Allah, BahawalpurJeM; Markaz Taiba, Muridke  LeT; Sarjal, Tehra Kalan JeM; Mehmoona Joya, Sialkot  HM; Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala  LeT; Markaz Abbas, Kotli  JeM; Maskar Raheel Shahid, Kotli  HM; Shawai Nalla Camp, Muzaffarabad  LeT; and Syedna Bilal Camp, Muzaffarabad  JeM.

The so-called kamikaze drones or loitering munitions were also deployed for surveillance, target identification, and final-phase strikes, ensuring maximum precision with minimal collateral damage.
Avenging the deaths of 26 tourists killed by Pakistan sponsored terrorists in Pahalgam, India launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

In the late night operation launch on the intervening night of May 6-7, India struck nine sites inside Pakistan.

Advertisement

A statement from the Ministry of Defence states that the strikes were targetted in the areas from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed.

Advertisement

Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution, the spokesperson said.

The release further stated that the action was taken to avenge the death of the 26 tourists killed in the attack including one Nepali citizen.

 We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable, the spokesperson outlined.
India on Wednesday launched Operation Sindoor, carrying out precision strikes on nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), the Ministry of Defence said in a statement.

The strikes on terror camps came in response to the deadly Pahalgam attack by Pakistan-backed terrorists in which 26 innocent civilians were killed.

Advertisement

A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched OPERATION SINDOOR, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed, said the Ministry of Defence.

Advertisement

It further informed that nine have been targeted.

Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution, the statement further read.

The ministry said that these steps come in the wake of the barbaric Pahalgam terrorist attack in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were murdered.

We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountableThere will be detailed briefing on OPERATION SINDOOR, later today, it added.

The Indian Army confirmed the action in a post on X. Justice is served. Jai Hind, the Army wrote along with #Pahalgamterrorattack.

| Visuals from Line of Control (LoC) as the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in #Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied #JammuandKashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed.#OperationSindoor pic.twitter.com/uCaLbbOfx6  The Statesman (@TheStatesmanLtd) May 6, 2025

Pakistani media also reported missile strikes in Kotli, Bahawalpur and Muzaffarabad. Pakistans Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said: India launched air strikes on Subhanullah mosque in Bahwalpurs Ahmed East area, Kotli and Muzaffarabad at three places from the air.

He further stated that Pakistan will respond to this at a time and place of its own choosing. This heinous provocation will not go unanswered.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday hailed the Indian Armed Forces after they carried out air strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the Pahalgam terror attack.

Shortly after the Ministry of Defence announced that India carried out precision strikes on terrorist bases in Pakistan and PoK under codename Operation Sindoor, the UP CM took to X and wrote in Hindi: Jai Hind, Jai Hind ki sena.

Advertisement

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai also hailed Indias response to the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam. Har har Mahadev Vande Mataram he wrote along with a poster of Operation Sindoor.

Advertisement

Their remarks came after India carried out precision strikes on nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The strikes on terror camps came in response to the deadly Pahalgam attack by Pakistan-backed terrorists in which 26 innocent civilians were killed.

A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched OPERATION SINDOOR, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed, said the Ministry of Defence.

It further informed that nine have been targeted.

Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution, the statement further read.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav and other leaders expressed pride and hailed the Indian Armed Forces for carrying out Operatiom Sindoor in retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack.

The MP CM said, Bharat Mata Ki Jai, congratulating the action.

Advertisement

State cabinet ministers Kailash Vijaywargiya, Prahlad Patel and others also lauded the Indian Armed Forces for carrying out the air strikes.

Advertisement

Bharatiya Sena Zindabad, Jai Hind, the ministers said on social media.

Former Congress CM Kamal Nath also expressed pride on the Indian Armed Forces.

At Indore, the widow of one of the Pahalgam terror attack victims said she is proud of the Indian Armed Forces and the action taken is right.

Jennifer Nathaniel (54), widow of Sushil Nathaniel (58), however insisted that the four terrorists who carried out the attack and shot dead her husband must definitely be eliminated at all cost.
With the Noida International Airport set to begin operations soon, the Uttar Pradesh police is gearing up to ensure foolproof security while maintaining a passenger-friendly environment.

The state government is deploying a specially trained unit of 131 police personnel to prevent any security lapses and make the police presence at the upcoming international airport in Jewar both alert and effective.

Advertisement

Officials here on Wednesday said to strengthen NIAs security framework, a team of 131 police personnel has been selected, comprising 10 inspectors, 42 sub-inspectors, and 62 constables. In addition, 17 officers will be kept in reserve. All selected staff members are graduates under the age of 50 and are proficient in both computers and the English language.

Advertisement

The training is being conducted by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in Lucknow, based on the recommendation of the Bureau of Immigration. It is noteworthy that the Government of India had requested the deployment of the state police force at Jewar Airport to manage and monitor immigration services and other critical operations.

Acting on this request, the UP government has identified personnel from various departments of the police force to fulfill these duties. These officers are being trained to meet international standards and to function as a vigilant, capable, and robust monitoring force, ensuring the smooth and secure operation of immigration services at the Noida International Airport.

As NIA prepares for its launch, 19 immigration counters10 for arrivals and 9 for departureswill be operated with the help of trained UP Police staff. These officers will undergo specialized training before deployment, ensuring they are ready to handle immigration services efficiently and deal swiftly with any irregularities.

The training program, conducted under the supervision of IPS officer Harsh Singh, Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO), is already underway in Lucknow. The first batch has completed training, while more sessions are set to begin soon, with the full process expected to conclude by July.

The training includes modules on immigration-related crimes, suspect identification, rapid response, and real-time field operations. Officers are also being trained in passport verification, e-visa monitoring, and the latest trends in international crime, such as human trafficking, smuggling, job scams, and document fraud.
A fortnight after 26 tourists were gunned down in Pahalgam by Pakistan sponsored terrorists, India launched Operation Sindoor to avenge the killings. Targeting nine sites harbouring terrorists in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Indian Armed Forces launched a post-midnight strike which lasted for 25 minutes.

A statement from the Ministry of Defence states that the strike, which was carried out in the intervening night of May 6-7, was focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution, an army spokesperson had stated while announcing the strikes.

Advertisement

Justifying Operation Sindoor Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that it was carried out to avenge the deaths of 26 tourists deaths in Pahalgam by Pakistan sponsored terrorists on April 22.

Advertisement

The attack in Pahalgam was marked by extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head-shots from close range and in front of their families. Family members were deliberately traumatized through the manner of the killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message, said Misry while addressing a media briefing, hours after the strike.

The manner of the attack was also driven by an objective of provoking communal discord, both in Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of the Nation. It is to the credit of the government and the people of India that these designs were foiled, he added.

Our intelligence monitoring of Pakistan-based terrorist modules indicated that further attacks against India were impending. There was thus a compulsion both to deter and to pre-empt. Our actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible. They focused on dismantling terrorists infrastructure, he said.

In the highly secretive operation, India carried out strikes against 9 terror camps of Hizb-ul-Mujahidin (HM, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) located in both Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir. It included Markaz Subhan Allah, Bahawalpur  JeM, Markaz Taiba, Muridke  LeT, Sarjal, Tehra Kalan  JeM, Mehmoona Joya, Sialkot  HM, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala  LeT, Markaz Abbas, Kotli  JeM, Maskar Raheel Shahid, Kotli  HM, Shawai Nalla Camp, Muzaffarabad  LeT, and Syedna Bilal Camp, Muzaffarabad  JeM

Detailing the attack that was carried out in complete secrecy, Col Sofyia Quereshi said that it started at 1.05 am and was over by 1.30 am.

Over the last three decades Pakistan has systematically built terror infrastructure. It is a complex web of recruitment and indoctrination centres, training areas for initial and refresher courses and launch pads with handlers. These camps are located both in Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK), said the officer.

Stating that the selection of targets for strike operation was based on credible intelligence inputs and role of these facilities in perpetrating terror activities, Quereshi said that the locations were selected with due diligence to avoid damage to civilian installations and loss of civilian lives.

The strike on the terror camps was undertaken through precision capability, using niche technology weapons with careful selection of warheads that ensured no collateral damage. The point of impact in each of the targets was a specific building or a group of buildings.

It was stated that not only were targets neutralised with clinical efficiency, none of the military establishments were targeted by the striking teams.

India has demonstrated considerable restraint in its response. However, Indian Armed Forces are fully prepared to respond to Pakistani misadventure, if any, to escalate the situation, said Col Quereshi.

Commending the Indian Armed Forces for carrying out Operation Sindoor, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that they have scripted history. We only killed those who killed our innocents, he said in a statement.

India had exercised its right to respond after the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam killed 25 tourists and one Kashmiri pony ride operator. The terrorists had cross-border linkages and an investigation pointed to Pakistans role, as in several attacks on Indian soil in the past, he said.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, our forces launched Operation Sindoor and destroyed terror training camps and gave a strong response. And this was done after meticulous planning. To hit terrorists morale, this action was restricted to only their camps and infrastructure. I salute the bravery of our armed forces, he added.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Wednesday said the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army carried out Operation Sindoor in a joint operation to avenge the death of 26 tourists killed in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam in the April 22 terror attack.

He said the intent behind the strike on terrorist hideouts in Pakistan in the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday is to ensure the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir post the terror strike.

Advertisement

The attack in Pahalgam was marked by extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head-shots from close range and in front of their families. Family members were deliberately traumatized through the manner of the killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message, said Misri while addressing a media briefing.

Advertisement

The manner of the attack was also driven by an objective of provoking communal discord, both in Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of the Nation. It is to the credit of the government and the people of India that these designs were foiled, he added.

It was revealed that post Pahalgam, the Pakistan based terror outfits were planning additional attacks in India. Our intelligence monitoring of Pakistan-based terrorist modules indicated that further attacks against India were impending. There was thus a compulsion both to deter and to pre-empt. Our actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible. They focused on dismantling terrorists infrastructure, he said.

The Resistance Force (TRF), an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba, had taken the responsibility of the Pahalgam massacre.

Investigations into the Pahalgam terror attack have brought out the communication nodes of terrorists in and to Pakistan. The claims made by The Resistance Front and their reposting by known social media handles of the Lashkar-e-Taiba speak for themselves. Identification of the attackers, based on eyewitness accounts, as well as other information available to law enforcement agencies, has also progressed. Our intelligence has developed an accurate picture of the planners and backers of this team, said Misri.

In the highly secretive operation, India carried out strikes against nine terror camps of Hizb-ul-Mujahidin (HM, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) located in both Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir. It included Markaz Subhan Allah, Bahawalpur  JeM, Markaz Taiba, Muridke  LeT, Sarjal, Tehra Kalan  JeM, Mehmoona Joya, Sialkot  HM, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala  LeT, Markaz Abbas, Kotli  JeM, Maskar Raheel Shahid, Kotli  HM, Shawai Nalla Camp, Muzaffarabad  LeT, and Syedna Bilal Camp, Muzaffarabad  JeM.
Chinese tourist pleads guilty for stealing from Singaporean passenger on Scoot flight

Scoot and Singapore Airlines aircraft sit on the tarmac at Singapore's Changi Airport, March 23, 2020. Photo by Reuters

A Chinese tourist on Monday pleaded guilty to one charge of theft for stealing cash and a credit card from a Singaporean passenger aboard a Scoot flight departing from Kuala Lumpur.

Under Singapore's law, the tourist, Zhang Kun, could face potential sentence of up to three years in prison, a fine, or both, The Straits Times reported.

The incident occurred on March 16 when the victim placed his haversack in the overhead compartment above his seat. During the flight, the victim and his fiancee left their seats to join friends at the back of the plane for a birthday celebration.

Zhang seized the opportunity, taking the haversack back to his seat, taking S$200 and RM100 (US$180), and a credit card from the wallet inside, Channel News Asia reported.

He then placed the haversack back to the overhead compartment.

But a Singaporean passenger seated next to him witnessed the theft, informed the victim who later confirmed that the items were missing.

Upon landing at Changi Airport, the victim contacted the police who arrested Zhang.

The stolen items could not be recovered as Zhang had already disposed of them.

Zhang previously claimed it was his first time visiting Singapore where Chinese tourists are offered visa-free entry under a mutual agreement.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called off his scheduled three-nation European tour following Operation Sindoor against terror camps in Pakistan, a source said on Wednesday.

The decision was taken in the wake of Operation Sindoor, a military strike launched by the Indian Armed Forces targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

Advertisement

In a move seen as a retaliatory initiative to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 25 Indian civilians and one Nepalese national, the Indian armed forces had early Wednesday carried out 24 precision missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, including Muridke and Bahawalpur, the strongholds of terror groups Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, respectively.

Advertisement

The prime ministers planned tour, which was to begin next week, was packed with key diplomatic engagements, and was set to include visits to Croatia, Norway, and the Netherlands.

During his trip, Mr Modi was scheduled to attend the 3rd India-Nordic Summit in Oslo and hold discussions on high-tech collaboration in the Netherlands.

The prime ministers visit to Norway had an added significance as both nations have been trying to expand trade relations under the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement.
Russia on Wednesday paid tribute to former Odisha Chief Minister and legendary freedom fighter Biju Patnaik for his valiant role during World War II.

A memorial plaque honouring Patnaiks contributions in aiding the Soviet Red Army during the Battle of Stalingrad was unveiled at the Russian Embassy in New Delhi.

Advertisement

The ceremony was attended by BJD President and former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, along with Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov.

Advertisement

Speaking on the occasion, Naveen Patnaik, also the son of Biju Patnaik, said, The Battle of Stalingrad led to success for Russia in the war against Nazi Germany, which saved the world from untold horror.

He further added that the people of Odisha would be immensely pleased with this honour, as Biju Patnaik is held in the highest regard in the state.

The BJD President thanked the Russian Embassy in India for bestowing the honour.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday took stock of the security situation at a meeting with Chief Ministers, Chief Secretaries and Director General of Police of border states after Operation Sindoor.

The Chief Ministers of Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim, West Bengal and the Lieutenant Governors of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir participated in the virtual meeting.

Advertisement

The meeting comes amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the launch of Operation Sindoor, under which nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir were targeted.

Advertisement

It is learnt that Shah has instructed DG BSF to ensure all sorts of safety measures for inhabitants of border areas.

Earlier Wednesday Shah reiterated that the Modi government is resolved to give a befitting response to any attack on India and its people. Shahs observation had come within hours of Indian forces carrying out overnight aerial strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

The military action was Bharats response to the brutal killings in Pahalgam, Mr Shah had asserted.

In a post on social media handle Mr Shah also said hes proud of the countrys armed forces and that India remains committed to eradicating terrorism.
World leaders on Wednesday urged both India and Pakistan to exercise calm and maximum restraint in the wake of Operation Sindoor carried out by Indian armed forces targeting terror camps in Pakistan and PoJK.

Expressing concerns over the escalation of tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours, the world leaders urged both sides to resort to the option of dialogue and diplomacy to defuse tensions.

Advertisement

US President Donald Trump, who was among the first to react described the situation as a shame and hoped that the tensions ended quickly.

Advertisement

I am monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely. I echo @POTUSs (President of the United Statess) comments earlier today that this hopefully ends quickly and will continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a post on social media platform X.

Donald Trump also expressed hope for a swift de-escalation. We just heard about it as we were walking through the doors of the Oval office. Theyve been fighting for a long time. I just hope it ends very quickly, he said.

China also urged India and Pakistan to exercise restraint amid rising tensions.

A statement issued by Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said: China expresses regret over Indias military actions this morning and is concerned about the current developments. China opposes all forms of terrorism. We call on both India and Pakistan to prioritize peace and stability, remain calm and restrained, and avoid taking actions that further complicate the situation.

Russias Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was deeply concerned about the deepening military confrontation between India and Pakistan and called for both countries to show restraint. In a statement posted on the Foreign Ministrys website, Russia said it condemns all forms of terrorism.

Reacting to the operation a spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a statement: The Secretary-General is very concerned about the Indian military operations across the Line of Control and international border. He calls for maximum military restraint from both countries.

The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan, it further said.

Urging both India and Pakistan to show restraint France Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said in an interview on TF1 television: We understand Indias desire to protect itself against the scourge of terrorism, but we obviously call on both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint to avoid escalation and, of course, to protect civilians.

Reacting to the operation, Japans chief cabinet secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi in a statement said: In regard to the terrorist act that occurred in Kashmir on April 22, our country firmly condemns such acts of terrorism. Furthermore, we express strong concern that this situation may lead to further retaliatory exchanges and escalate into a full-scale military conflictFor the peace and stability of South Asia, we strongly urge both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and stabilise the situation through dialogue.

Qatar, in a statement issued by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said it follows with great concern the continuing escalation between India and Pakistan and called for resolving the crisis through diplomatic channels.

The statement further said it emphasizes the urgent need to keep communication channels open between India and Pakistan.

Also reacting to the operation Turkey urged India and Pakistan to act with common sense adding that Indias latest military action created the risk of an all-out war.

UAE Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, in a statement, urged India and Pakistan to show restraint, reduce tensions and prevent further escalation.

His Highness reaffirmed that diplomacy and dialogue remain the most effective means of peacefully resolving crises, and achieving the shared aspirations of nations for peace, stability, and prosperity, the statement said.

Israels ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, said in a statement that Israel supports Indias right to self-defence.

In a post on X, Mr Azar said, Israel supports Indias right for self defence. Terrorists should know theres no place to hide from their heinous crimes against the innocent.
External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar reiterated Indias uncompromising stance against terrorism on Wednesday.

In a military operation following the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 civilian lives, India launched Operation Sindoor, striking nine high-value terror targets deep inside Pakistani territory.

Advertisement

The operation, executed with surgical precision, was closely monitored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior security officials through the night.

Advertisement

Taking to X, EAM Jaishankar stated, The world must show zero tolerance for terrorism, reaffirming Indias diplomatic and strategic resolve in dealing with cross-border terror.

The Indian Army confirmed that the strikes were meticulously planned and executed, ensuring that no civilian or military infrastructure in Pakistan was affected.

The operation targeted infrastructure linked to terror groups responsible for the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen in Jammu and Kashmir.

Sources said the Prime Minister remained in constant communication with top military commanders and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval during the operation.

According to official statements, the nine targets included camps and logistical bases associated with terror groups operating from within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The Indian Armys spokesperson emphasised the precise nature of the strikes, stating, Our actions have been focused and precise. We have only targeted terrorist camps from where attacks against India have been planned and executed.

The Army further clarified that the operation was non-escalatory in intent and execution, aiming strictly at dismantling terror infrastructure while sparing civilian, military, and economic structures in Pakistan.

Justice is served. Jai Hind, the spokesperson added.

Indian intelligence agencies had earlier traced the Pahalgam attack to Pakistan-based groups, with The Resistance Front  a Lashkar-e-Taiba proxy  claiming responsibility.

In response, India had vowed a decisive countermeasure, combining diplomatic pressure with military preparedness.

Operation Sindoor marks one of the most significant cross-border actions taken by India since the Balakot airstrikes in 2019.
Romania stands at a critical juncture. The outcome of the first round of its presidential re-run has expos ed a stark political divide, not only within the country but also mirroring wider currents across Europe. George Simion, the 38-year-old hard-right nationalist, surged ahead with 40.6 per cent of the vote, while centrist Bucharest mayor Nicu or Dan trailed significantly with 21 per cent. Their runoff on May 18 may decide not just the presidency, but the future direction of Romanias democracy and international posture. This election follows the annulment of the November 2024 vote, a rare and contentious move prompted by unproven allegations of Russian interference. That vote had been won by far-right candidate C lin Georgescu, whose disqualification from the current race has only fuelled political polarisation. Mr Simion, who had garnered just 14 per cent in November, now appears to have capitalised on Mr Georgescus support base and broader public frustration with the political establishment.

At the heart of this political shift is a rising wave of nationalism. Many voters, especially younger and disenfranchised Romanians, see in Mr Simion a promise of national sovereignty, cultural identity, and a clean break from elite-driven politics. His alignment with MAGA-style populism and open criticism of EU institutions resonates with those sceptical of Brussels and resentful of perceived foreign overreach. Yet this turn raises critical questions. For the past two decades, Romania has been a committed member of both the European Union and NATO, serving as a crucial partner on the alliances eastern flank. It has supported Ukraine in its war against Russia by providing military training, air defence systems, and a vital grain export corridor.

Advertisement

A Simion presidency could weaken this role, introduce strategic uncertainty, and isolate Romania diplomatically at a time when transatlantic unity is most needed. Whats also at stake is Romanias democratic resi  lience. The annulled November vote revealed institutional vulnerabilities and a deep erosion of trust in electoral in  tegrity. Safeguarding transparency, judicial independence, and media freedom is now more essential than ever ~ not only for this election, but for the long-term health of Romanian democracy. The runoff will also test Romanias political maturity. In a fragmented landscape where ideological lines often blur, building consensus around democratic norms ~ regardless of party ~ is essential to prevent deeper polarisation and institutional decay, which are risks in any emerging populist wave.

Advertisement

Mr Dan, the 55-yearold technocrat running as an independent, represents continuity with Romanias Western trajectory. His anticorruption credentials and moderate platform appeal to urban voters and the diaspora, but his path is complicated by political fragmentation and residual distrust from past governance failures. Ultimately, Romanians face a defining choice. One path embraces nationalism and a pivot toward unilateralism; the other reaffirms cooperation, institutional reform, and global alignment. Neither course is without its challenges. But as voters prepare to return to the polls, they are not merely electing a leader ~ they are shaping Romanias identity, role, and relevance in a rapidly shifting world.
On 2 May, the city saw a fresh wave of educational innovation with DesignEdX, a half-day conclave hosted by Anant National University. Organised by the Universitys Centre of Design Education (CODE), the workshop attempted to reshape the future of education through design thinking. Forty-five educators, thought leaders and changemakers from thirty-five prominent schools in and around Kolkata participated in the insightful event.

Themed Design Thinking in Education: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities, the conclave provided a platform to explore how design thinking principles can be used to transform classroom challenges into innovative and interdisciplinary solutions. Notable schools attended the session including Lakshmipat Singhania Academy International, Shri Shikshayatan School, Modern High School International, The Heritage School, R P Goenka International School and Sushila Birla Girls School, among others.

Advertisement

Setting a thoughtful tone, the conclave commenced with an address by Anunaya Chaubey, Provost, Anant National University who emphasised the innovative and sustainable methods to integrate design thinking into the educational framework. It also featured a panel discussion on incorporating Indigenous knowledge systems in todays education landscape. Speaking to The Statesman, Anunaya Chaubey said, Through CODE, we are trying to create a paradigm of education that is not only oriented towards finding jobs but also focuses on helping students use their learning to solve problems. Design thinking is a kind of thinking that is tailored to leveraging creativity and critical thinking, so that students understand the world we live in, identify its problems and solve the issues. It helps you to design and craft solutions, and is a very specific approach towards problem solving.

Advertisement

Chaubey further pointed out that children are naturally curious and are not afraid of failing before entering school. However, our education system and rote learning methods suppress these virtues and make them another rat in the race. CODE attempts to connect with the students at a young age as well as schools, teachers and parents to reimagine what real education should be and train them to deal with the changing circumstances, he added.

This was followed by a hands-on workshop where principals and educators were divided into groups and asked to take a simple object- like a pencil, wheel, leaf or banana- and write down the different perspectives that come to mind when thinking about it. After writing, they presented their diverse viewpoints on the object. This exercise aimed at stimulating classroom-level problem-solving using design methodologies. Students are mostly connected with teachers. Through this exposure, teachers would learn the necessity of design thinking and will be able to make students understand its significance, Chaubey stated.

The session left a deep impact on the participating educators. Ive been in the field of education for almost 33 years now and this was a fabulous experience. I didnt expect a workshop where we would be made to think like a school child. To have chart paper, sketch pens, and colour pencils to design a flowchart and to think laterally, was something really unique. This was not one-sided. This kind of experiential learning needs to be replaced with rote learning in our classroom, Indira Bhattacharya, Cluster Principal, Narayana Group of Schools, told The Statesman, adding, We looked into the different facets of everyday objects. This is what true learning should be  comprehensive, collaborative and beyond the boundary of a particular subject. Such workshops are ideal and create a learning environment that is deeply engaging.

Another teacher, Payal Rampuria, PGT and HOD, Shri Shikshayatan School, echoed similar sentiments. Todays session was different and a lot more engaging. As a teacher, we are already incorporating elements of design thinking but were unaware of it. The workshop helped connect the dots. Traditional learning makes education dull for students, but if we embed design thinking into our pedagogy, it becomes creative and meaningful. She also appreciated the practical exposure offered at the workshop, You cant teach unless and until youve experienced it. By inviting schools to participate in hands-on activities, they allowed us to internalise the learning. Now we can go back and pass it on to our students in a more effective way.

With events like DesignEdX, Anant National University is spearheading a movement to shift education from rote to relevance, ensuring that students are not just prepared for exams- but for life.
Reacting to the Indian air strikes on terror camps in Pakistan, US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said that Washington knew something was going to happen and expressed hope that it ends very quickly.

Its a shameWe just heard about it as we were walking in the doors of the Oval. I guess we knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past, the US president told reporters during a press conference.

Advertisement

He further added: They (India and Pakistan) have been fighting for many many decades, and centuries when you think about it. Nah, I just hope it ends very quickly.

Advertisement

Following the Pahalgam terror attack, Trump had called PM Modi to condemn the terrorist attack and reaffirmed US support to India in its fight against terrorism.

His remarks came shortly after India carried out precision strikes on terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in reponse to the barbaric Pahalgam terror attack on April 22.

Acocrding to a statement issued by the Minsitry of Defence, the strikes laumched under codename Operation Sindoor targeted nine locations, hitting terroriat infrastrucutre in Pakistan and PoK.

Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution, the statement read.

Following the strikes, Pakistan said that it will respond to the attacks at a time and place of its own choosing.
Thai tourism operators fear the country will lose its position as the top Southeast Asian destination to Vietnam in a few years as the latter reported nearly 50% inbound market growth in March compared with the pre-pandemic period, while Thailand struggles with sluggish growth.

Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, President of the Association of Chon Buri Tourism Federation, said it may take only two to three years for Vietnam to gain more inbound tourists than Thailand.

For this year, Vietnam set a goal for 23 million foreign arrivals, while Thailand's Finance Ministry slashed its international arrivals forecast from 38.5 million to 36.5 million, Thanet said as cited by Bangkok Post.

Thailand recorded 2.7 million tourists in March, down 20% from the 2019 level, while Vietnam tallied more than 2 million tourists in the same month, up by 40% from 2019.

Thanet said Vietnam offers lower living costs than Thailand. Family-oriented resorts and theme parks are also newer and cheaper than similar products in Thailand, while all-inclusive packages at Vietnam hotels are half the price of those in Thailand.

He said Vietnam supports foreign travel agents, such as those from Russia, by subsidizing air travel and offering lower landing fees at airports. This caused agents to shift their tours to cities like Nha Trang from Phuket this summer season.

Thanet said foreign travel agents told him many airports in large Vietnamese cities are designed as international airports, enabling them to easily offer new overseas flight routes. The airports are located a 30 to 45-minute trip by car from tourist areas.

By contrast, if tourists want to go to Hua Hin or Kanchanaburi, they must spend more than three hours traveling by vehicle from airports in Bangkok.

Thanet said if the Thai government does not pursue a more active tourism approach and enhance safety measures, it will be difficult to reach the target of 36.5 million arrivals.

Sanga Ruangwattanakul, President of the Khao San Road Business Association, said Bangkok may record fewer tourist arrivals than last year as the Chinese market shrinks and foreigners pivot to emerging destinations such as Vietnam.

Last week, the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) submitted a proposal to the Tourism Authority of Thailand and the government requesting a subsidy worth 320 million THB (US$9.7 million) to increase Chinese arrivals. ATTA estimated the plan should generate at least 8.3 billion THB in revenue, based on average spending per trip of 55,869 THB from 150,000 Chinese tourists.

ATTA said this scheme is risk-free for the government because it is a joint investment with the private sector, who would bear 80% of the cost. The government can mandate each flight brings at least 150 Chinese tourists to receive the 300,000-THB subsidy.


remaining of

Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading.
Union Minister of Parliamentary and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, on Tuesday, took part in the inaugural session of the 20th UN Day of Vesak Celebrations in Vietnam and also attended exhibitions by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC).

Addressing the global gathering at the UN Vesak Day celebrations, the minister emphasised Buddha's timeless message and India's ancient commitment to sustainability.

India and Vietnam share a spiritual connection, given a considerable section of Vietnamese practice Buddhism, of which India is the birthplace.

The minister of minority affairs also attended an exhibition curated by the IBC. Coinciding with the UN Day of Vesak (May 12, 2025), the IBC is holding three exhibitions that pertain to the dissemination of Buddhism and its cultural practices from India to Vietnam.

These include an electronic display of the Jataka Tales, sculptures depicting different forms of the Buddha, and a comparative study of Buddhist artefacts from India and Vietnam. The highlight remains the display of the digital restoration of the Ajanta Cave murals, putting a spotlight on the Jataka Tales.

Notably, Rijiju led the Indian delegation that took the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha to Vietnam last week, which is currently enshrined at Thanh Tam Pagoda at the Vietnam Buddhist Academy, Ho Chi Minh City. Notably, the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha are revered physical remains or personal items linked to the Buddha. They're believed to be symbols of his teachings and enlightenment.

According to a release by the Press Information Bureau, the Sacred Relics includes a part of the skull bone of Lord Buddha. They were excavated in 1898 by William Claxton Peppe, a British archaeologist, at Kapilavastu, near the India-Nepal border. In 1997, the relics were enshrined in a gold-plated stupa, done by Thai artisans, and also features 109 grams of gold at its pinnacle.

As part of the UN Day of Vesak celebrations, the relics will remain in Vietnam till May 21, and after that, they travel to Ho Chi Minh City, then to Tay Ninh, Hanoi, and Ha Nam. This isn't the first time that India shared Buddhist relics and had previously done so with Mongolia and Thailand.
While trade between the UK and India will surely get a boost with the free trade agreement (FTA) between the two countries helping both countries bottom lines, the bigger significance of this deal is on three related geo-economic and strategic manoeuvres.

First of all is that the successful completion of the talks and how negotiators found a way out of a couple of roadblocks that had vexed it for long, will catalyse the long-pending similar deal that India had been pursuing with the larger European Union (EU) block.

Unlike the UK talks which started about three years ago, Indias pursuit of an FTA with EU has meandered along for nearly two decades. In fact, both sides had as much as given up on it back in 2013 leading to a nine-year lull, before talks picked up again in the summer of 2022.

The next round of India-EU talks is scheduled for next week.

The UK FTA conclusion even prompted Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to sound confident in Milan, Italy, where she expressed hope that the India-EU FTA will be next. Commerce minister Piyush Goyal even hinted at this when he commented ostensibly on the UK FTA completion that FTAs are not only about goods and services but also protect core interests while opening doors to Indias greater participation in global value chains.

Second, is the elephant in the room for both India and the EUTrumps America and the chaos it has sparked off on the global trade stage with his tariff tantrums. Both the EU and India need to offset whatever Trump finally settles down on, and whats better than finding solid enough alternative partners of your own?

As it stands, the EU is Indias biggest goods export market, while Europe does have visions of Indias massive domestic market enough of a compensation to offset whatever trade googlies Trump may throw their way.

Most importantly, the UK FTA signals Indias openness to striking free trade agreements, and in this moment of global uncertainty, that is key, said Rahul Ahluwalia, founder-director of Foundation for Economic Development, a Delhi-based public policy think-tank.

As per official EU figures, India is the EUs biggest trading partner, accounting for 12.2 per cent of Indias trade, even more than the US at 10.8 per cent and China at 10.5 per cent . Of course, that is an overall trade figure, because India exports more to the US, and imports way beyond a level of comfort from China.

A trade deal, both the continental bloc and the Asian sub-continent hope, could alter this dependence on superpowers (the US for EU and China for India) into a more equitable partnership of two fairly equal (economy and trade size-wise) entities.

Third, and crucial for India, is about putting its eggs in different baskets, or in other words, reducing the dependence on a few big trading partners. Especially China with which India has long-running border disputes, and the US, which under Trump, has been flip-flopping on tariffs and policy on not just matters of trade ever since he took over.

It also perhaps realises that the days of WTO and globally regulated trade are all but over, and it doesnt want to be caught unawares especially considering two major sore pointsone, the fact that it is a net importer of costly petroleum products, and the other, its over-dependence for industrial raw materials on China.

This is also one of the reasons India has been on an FTA spree in recent years. After concluding deals with Australia, UAE and now the UK, next in line are a plethora of negotiations at various stages of negotiations. This ranges from Oman and EFTA (Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein & Switzerland) to Chile and Peru.
India, in the early hours of Wednesday, struck nine terror sites inside Pakistan, one of which was at a madrassa in Bahawalpur district of Pakistan's Punjab region. The religious centre at Ahmadpur East is located about 400 km from Lahore.

The centre, called Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah complex or the Usman-o-Ali campus, is a sprawling 18-acre facility. This place was one of the prime targets of India, as it was said to host JeM's operational base.

The facility is said to be functioning under the command of Masood Azhaar, a most-wanted terrorist who is the mastermind behind the 2001 Parliament attack in New Delhi. He is said to be a frequent visitor here to hold meetings with Pakistans military officers, ISI operatives, and radical clerics.

Pakistan has acknowledged India's airstrikes targeting Bahawalpur, a major city deep within its territory and the 12th largest in the country. The strikes reportedly hit the operational base of Jaish-e-Mhammad (JeM) at the Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah complex, also known as the pic.twitter.com/NZgluQgLVg  The Letter S (@WhyTheLetter_S) May 7, 2025 This is Markaz Subhan Allah located in Bahawalpur, Pakistan.



This was the terror headquarters and training camp of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) #OperationSindoor destroyed it completely.

pic.twitter.com/kwMPCUFcDG  Shashank Shekhar Jha (@shashank_ssj) May 7, 2025

While India has made no mention of any deaths, Pakistan claims the attacks at Masjid Subhanullah in Ahmedpur East killed 13 people, including two 3-year-old girls, seven women and four men. It is still unclear whether Masood Azhar was among the dead. Speculations are rife that the dead include Azhar's sister and brothers.

A statement issued by JeM on Wednesday by the militant group he heads - Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) - said that the deceased included his elder sister and her husband, his nephew and his wife, a niece, and five children from his family.

As per reports, the Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah complex is more than just a religious centre. It is a huge complex with a mosque and a madrassa that can accommodate over 600 people. It is also said to have a swimming pool, stables for horses, and a gymnasium.

The facility's proximity to a major Pakistani army cantonment was also a matter of concern to India.

While Masood Azhar was absent from the public eye for years, he began resurfacing in Bahawalpur towards the end of 2024. Both satellite and human intelligence suggested Azhar's presence in the mosque complex. He was seen there with his son, who is also a declared terrorist.

Soon after the strikes, videos began to emerge showing the Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah complex burning. Another video showed the centre turned into rubble.
After India's successful Operation Sindoor in payback of the Pahalgam terror attack by Pakistan-sponsored terrorists, there is barrage of misinformation circulating on social media. The latest such misinformation spread by Pakistani government and its media is a fake letter in the name of a non-existent DRDO scientist.

Flagging the fake letter, the PIB Fact Check team said the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has not issued any such letter.

 Fake Letter Alert 



A letter undersigned by scientist AS Kumar from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is being circulated online alleging a failure in BrahMos missile components.#PIBFactCheck



 The letter is fake



 @DRDO_India has not issued any pic.twitter.com/Spd2Hy0QTi  PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 7, 2025

As per rumoured claims, the fake letter is undersigned by one AS Kumar who is a scientist at the DRDO. The content of the letter alleged a failure in the BrahMos missile components.

However, PIB Fact Check team has dismissed the claims, clarifying that there is no scientist named AS Kumar at the Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE) of DRDO.

However, the misinformation campaign does not end there. Images were circulated on pro-Pakistan social media that allegedly showed debris of Rafale fighter jets of India. However, PIB Fact Check has confirmed that the images were from an earlier crash involving an Indian Air Force MiG-21 fighter jet.

Another image showed an IAF twin-engine fighter aircraft MiG-29 being downed by Pakistan. However, PIB Fact Check clarified that the visuals were from a crash that occurred an year earlier.
Taken aback by India's midnight strikes, Pakistani media has embarked on a ridiculous and baseless misinformation campaign, with one major national television channel claiming that India "hoisted White Flag to accept defeat". The website also went ahead to claim that India acknowledged the downing of the fighter jets, which itself was a false claim.

A report that appeared on Samaa TV said that a white flag was hoisted at the Chora Complex along the Line of Control. Ironically, there is no digital footprint of any 'Chora Complex' along the border within India. Ironically, Samaa did not have any other information about the "surrender", including reactions from the Pakistani military.

While Samaa also carried a poor resolution image along with the claim, other news media websites also jumped on the bandwagon with similar claims, with one even stating that jubiliations broke out in Pakistan after India surrendered. The website hilariously claimed that "people filled mosques in Pakistan and thanked the almighty for victory and raised slogans in favour of the Pakistan Army". The report has no mention of where or when the celebrations happened. It doesn't have any accompanying pictures either.

Samaa also carried a report that the Indian side accepted that three jets were downed, which is clearly a false statement. The report added that "the Pakistan Air Force destroyed five Indian aircraft, not just three as admitted by the Indian authorities". The Indian side has not responded to any of Pakistan's claims yet, and so far, no reports of any jet downed have been confirmed.

There are also speculations about whether or not Indian fighter jets breached Pakistani airspace to bomb the terror camps. As per the Indian military, the jets did not breach Pakistani airspace, and the forces used Kamikaze drones, also known as loitering munitions, to strike the targets. The weapons typically carry a warhead and strike the target with precision.

Pakistan also acknowledge that the Indian jets did not enter Pakistani territory. "All of our air force jets are airborne. This cowardly and shameful attack was carried out from within Indias airspace. They were never allowed to come and intrude into the space of Pakistan," it said.
In the wake of 'Operation Sindoor' by the Indian Air Force, which targetted nine terrorist hideouts located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir, there have been many tall claims and rhetoric by Pakistan and its Army.

Several pro-Pakistan handles have been circulating a video claiming that Pakistan Air Force has targetted Srinagar airbase.

However, a PIB Fact Check has clarified that the video being circulated is old and not from India.

The video is from sectarian clashes that took place in the year 2024, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, PIB said in a X post.

It also asked people to depend only on official government of India sources for authentic information.

ALSO READ: Pakistan Army vows to retaliate 'at a time and place of its own choosing' after India's missile strikes on terror targets

It is to be noted that in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, Pakistan has launched a large-scale online disinformation campaign against India, particularly the Indian Armed Forces, in a bid to create confusion and undermine the morale of the forces and the people of the country.

Pakistan media reports have been claiming that it brought down three to five Indian Air Force (IAF) jets and a military post Dhundial sector of the Line of Control (LoC) and brought down a drone.

However, there has been no official confirmation from India regarding these claims.

Indian Air Force targetted Markaz Subhan Allah at Bahawalpur, Sarjal at Tehra Kalan, Markaz Abbas in Kotli, Syedna Bilal camp in Muzaffarabad, Markaz Taiba at Murdike, Markaz Ahle Hadith at Barnala, Shwawai Nalla camp at Muzaffarabad, Makaz Raheel Shahid in Kotli and Mehmoona Joya in Sialkot. All these are camps belonging to terror outfits Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen.
The misinformation campaign which Pakistan has been waging against India and its security forces ever since the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack appears to gained more viciousness in the wake of 'Operation Sindoor'.

After falsely claiming that Pakistan Air Force targetted Srinagar airbase, pro-Pakistan social media handles claimed that Pakistan destroyed Indian Brigade Headquarters in Jammu and Kashmir.

Refuting the claim, PIB Fact Check clarified that this is yet another misinformation campaign by Pakistan.

PIB made an earnest appeal to people to avoid sharing unverified information and rely only on official sources from the Indian government for accurate information.

ALSO READ: Did Pakistan Air Force hit Srinagar airbase after 'Operation Sindoor'?

Pro-Pakistan handles have been circulating stories claiming senior Indian officers were sacked, exiled, or dismissed due to operational failures. India was quick to debunk these claims, proving that the officers were either retired honorably or were promoted as per official notification.

On Wednesday morning, in retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack which left 26 tourists dead, Indian armed forces carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base Muridke. The strikes under 'Operation Sindoor' were carried out from Indian soil, without security forces crossing over to the Pakistan side.
U.S. President Donald Trump (C) welcomes Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney (R) at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on May 6, 2025. U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met in the White House on Tuesday, disagreeing on the "51st state" and trade issues, according to the live broadcast of CBC News. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

OTTAWA, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Tuesday he had wide-ranging and constructive discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump in the White House, although the two leaders disagreed on tariffs lifting and the "51st state," according to the live broadcast of CBC News.

Giving a post-meeting news conference in Washington, D.C., Carney said that he and Trump agreed to have further conversations in the coming weeks and meet again in person at the G7 summit in Kananaskis, Alberta.

Carney said he told Trump it's "not useful" to repeat the 51st state idea, adding that Trump is the president who is going to say whatever he wants. "He understands that we are having a negotiation between sovereign nations," said Carney.

Responding to the question if he is heading back to Ottawa with any tangible progress on ending the trade war, Carney said they had some very specific things to follow up on and build out from that.

"These are the discussions you have when you're looking to find solutions," he said.

While Trump made it clear that the tariffs, especially those on the auto sector, would stay in place, Carney said, "We'll see."

Canadian workers and suppliers in auto plant towns are worried that the longer the tariff dispute goes on, the less likely those finished cars are to be sold, reported CBC News.

"If he (Trump) actually achieves shutting down production in Canada and Mexico, it doesn't mean he's going to get new production in the U.S.," Flavio Volpe, president of Canada's Automotive Parts Manufacturers' Association, was quoted as saying.

Volpe said he hopes Carney will announce further meetings with Trump: "I want to know that we've set a date for the next game."

Trump posted a statement on his Truth Social account minutes before Carney's arrival at the White House, denigrating the importance of Canada to the U.S. economy.

"We don't need their Cars, we don't need their Energy, we don't need their Lumber, we don't need ANYTHING they have. They, on the other hand, need EVERYTHING from us!" wrote Trump.

Speaking to the media in the Oval Office earlier on Tuesday, Trump said the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is a "transitional step" that "terminates fairly shortly," making no commitment to its renewal.

Carney said the agreement is the "basis for a broader negotiation," adding that parts of it may change and other elements might be added during a potential renegotiation.

Trump repeated annexation threats toward Canada, which he said would be a "wonderful marriage" and called the border between the two countries "artificial" again.

The president said it would be best for Canada as the "51st state" of the United States with a lot of advantage, tax cut and free military.

While Carney jumped in to say that Canada is "never for sale," Trump quipped, "Never say never, ... time will tell."

The United States has put in place a 25 percent tariff on all goods, and 10 percent on energy and potash that isn't covered by USMCA. There's another 25 percent tax on Canadian steel and aluminum, and 25 percent on automobiles that aren't covered by USMCA.

In response, Canada put in place its own 25 percent tariffs on non-USMCA compliant vehicles, and additional fees on nearly 60 billion Canadian dollars (43.6 billion U.S. dollars) in steel and aluminum products, as well as consumer goods including juice, spirits, computers, apparel and cosmetics.

With the implementation of the new tariffs in March, Canada's trade with the United States fell in March, said Statistics Canada on Tuesday.

Carney traveled to Washington on Monday, his first foreign trip since winning a minority Liberal government in last week's federal election. The prime minister said the trip would be the first in a series of discussions on tariffs, military cooperation and other issues with the United States.

U.S. President Donald Trump (C) welcomes Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney (R) at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on May 6, 2025. U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met in the White House on Tuesday, disagreeing on the "51st state" and trade issues, according to the live broadcast of CBC News. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

U.S. President Donald Trump (2nd L) welcomes Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney (2nd R) at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on May 6, 2025. U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met in the White House on Tuesday, disagreeing on the "51st state" and trade issues, according to the live broadcast of CBC News. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

U.S. President Donald Trump (2nd L) welcomes Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney (2nd R) at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on May 6, 2025. U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met in the White House on Tuesday, disagreeing on the "51st state" and trade issues, according to the live broadcast of CBC News. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

Editor: ZAD
Ever since reports of the strikes carried out by India against nine militant hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, there have also been counter-claims of Pakistan shooting down one of India's Rafale fighter jets.

There were also images being circulated on pro-Pakistan social media, claiming the debris belonged to a Rafale fighter jet of India.

Now, PIB Fact Check has come out with a clarification saying that the images being circulated are from a previous accident involving an Indian Air Force (IAF) MiG-21 fighter jet.

"An #old image showing a crashed aircraft is being circulated with the claim that Pakistan recently shot down an Indian Rafale jet near Bahawalpur during the ongoing #OperationSindoor," PIB Fact Check posted.

ALSO READ: Did Pakistan destroy Indian Brigade Headquarters?

It further clarified, "This image is from an earlier incident involving an IAF MiG-21 fighter jet that crashed in Moga district in Punjab in 2021."

Beware of old images shared by pro-Pakistan handles in the present context, it said.

The sophisticated disinformation apparatus of Pakistan, led by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), has been targetting India, claiming that Pakistan has brought down India's fighter jets and destroyed Indian army bases in the country. The propaganda has also targeted decorated Indian armed forces officers.

India has been quick to debunk these claims, including the recent ones claiming the destruction of Indian Brigade Headquarters and the attack on the Srinagar airbase.
Hours after the Indian airstrikes on terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in Operation Sindoor, Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said his military will back off from retaliation against India provided New Delhi halts further strikes.

Saying the attacks were initiated by India, Asif said, "If India is ready to back down, they have taken the initiative, we have just responded. We have been saying all along, for the last fortnight, that we will never initiate anything hostile against India.

However, the defence minister said if Pakistan is attacked, they will respond. "We will definitely wrap up these things, if India backs down," he told Bloomberg.

Addressing a press meet, Khawaja said that Pakistan does not seek war. Though the forces are prepared for attacks, he said they are equally prepared to exercise restraint.

The defence minister's move is seen as a diplomatic effort to avoid further escalation as Pakistan is already cash-strapped and cannot afford to go on an all-out war with India.

On the intervening night of May 6 and 7, India struck Pakistan's terrorist camps that served as training and recruitment camps, indoctrination centres and weapon storage.

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said it was necessary to take pre-emptive and precautionary strikes as intelligence inputs showed that further attacks against India were impending.

In a rare tri-service operations jointly executed by the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force, nine locations in Pakistan and PoK were targeted. These sites were used by Pakistan-sponsored terrorists for recruitment, training and infiltration into India.

Following Operation Sindoor, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh posted on X, "Bharat Mata ki Jai".
Through Operation Sindoor, which saw India strike over nine terror targets inside Pakistan, India seeks to establish a doctrine that underlines that it was Pakistan which initiated a military conflict against India by carrying out a terror attack, according to an analyst.

Operation Sindoor seeks to create a tripwire situation regarding escalation, according to Happymon Jacob, an associate professor of disarmament studies at the School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University.

He argues that India has now put the onus on Pakistan to ensure there would be no terrorist attack if it wanted to prevent a military conflict. The airstrikes prove that any terror attack, in all probability, will result in a conventional military response. "In other words, the starting point of India-Pakistan escalation is not the Indian use of conventional force, but the Pakistani use of subconventional force. India has put the ball in Pakistans court on future escalation. Op Sindoor is the trailer," he argued.

According to the analyst, the mission is also a prelude to India's future handling of terrorism, which seeks to establish a 'military response to terrorist attacks' doctrine.

Jacob argues that low-level military actions (like 2016 and 2019) may not be the preferred response any longer. He also points out how Operation Sindoor sought to show that India wouldn't accept that there is a fundamental distinction between subconventional (terrorism) and conventional (military) aggression.

Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry confirmed that Indian forces conducted airstrikes on five locations inside Pakistan, targeting Kotli, Bahawalpur, Muzaffarabad, Bagh & Muridke, 4 civilians, a kid dead#OperationSindoor pic.twitter.com/oHelibYNpi  Debashish Sarkar  (@DebashishHiTs) May 7, 2025

"Pakistan has traditionally exploited this distinction to paint a doomsday escalatory scenario to prevent the Indian military response to terror attacks. If India doesnt accept that distinction any longer, Pakistans ability to exploit that space to carry out/allow/do nothing about terror attacks against India no longer exists," he said.

Another important facet of Operation Sindoor is that it challenged Pakistan's refusal to accept the space between conventional and nuclear domains, which meant that India would not be able to undertake conventional military options without worrying about Pakistani tactical nuclear weapons. "Op Sindoor calls both the bluff: It removes the space between subconventional and conventional aggression; and given that there was little nuclear talk in 2019 or now, it has called the nuclear bluff too. Pakistan can no longer depend on nuclear threats to deter Indian conventional attacks in response to subconventional aggression," he argues.

India also wanted to reinstate deterrence against terrorism, which was established by the 2019 Balakot strikes. This deterrence was ruptured by Pahalgam, and there have not been any high-intensity terror attacks since the Pulwama terror attack. "In Indian thinking, the Balakot air attacks deterred Pakistan from carrying out or allowing terrorist attacks against India thereafter. The Pahalgam attack undid the deterrence established in 2019. In that sense, Operation Sindoor is an attempt to reinstate deterrence against terrorism as achieved by the Balakot strikes," the analyst added.
Pakistan, on Wednesday, claimed that three Indian Air Force jets were brought down by Pakistan Air Force in retaliation for 'Operation Sindoor' launched by India on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.

Dawn reported quoting a Pakistan military spokesperson as saying that two Indian jets were downed at 2.45 am and another at 3.42 am.

Pakistan Information Minister Attaullah Tarar claimed that his country is responding to "Indian aggression."

"I can confirm that two aircraft of Indian Air Force have been taken down. The locations I have so far are around Bhatinda in India and Akhnoor," Dawn quoted Pakistan Army spokesman Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry as saying.

Later, PTV reported, "Pakistan Air Force shot down another Indian Rafale aircraft 17 nautical miles southwest of Awantipora. Pakistan Air Force shot down three fighter jets of the Indian Air Force."

PTV claimed that no Pakistan Air Force sustained any damage.

India has not responded to these claims by Pakistan.

ALSO READ: Operation Sindoor: India launches air strikes on 9 terror bases in PoK, Pakistan

India carried out missile strikes on various targets, including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base Muridke.

"A little while ago, the Indian armed forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," the defence ministry said in a statement at 1.44 am.

Indian armed forces have been "focused, measured and non-escalatory" in nature and that no Pakistani military facilities have been targeted, the ministry added.

Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said, "All of our (Pakistan) air force jets are airborne. This cowardly and shameful attack was carried out from within India's airspace. They were never allowed to come and intrude into the space of Pakistan."
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Wednesday told his counterparts in various countries that India has no intent to escalate tensions but is prepared to "retaliate resolutely" if Pakistan does so, officials said, as per a PTI report.

Doval briefed his counterparts in the US, UK, Saudi Arabia and Japan about India's missile strikes against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). He also established contact with Russia and France, officials explained.

"NSA briefed his counterparts on actions taken and method of execution, which was measured, non-escalatory and restrained. He emphasised that India had no intent to escalate but was well prepared to retaliate resolutely should Pakistan decide to escalate," an official said.

The conversations took place soon after India carried out 'Operation Sindoor' at nine sites.

ALSO READ | WATCH: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauds 'Operation Sindoor', highlights the danger of Pakistani terror camps

He spoke to US NSA and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, UK's Jonathan Powell, Saudi Arabia's Musaid Al Aiban, UAE's H.H. Sheikh Tahnoon, and Japan's Masataka Okano.

"Contact was also established with Russian NSA Sergei Shoigu, Member of Political Bureau of CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs of PRC Wang Yi and Diplomatic Advisor to French President Emmanuel Bonne," the official said.

Doval will be in further touch with his counterparts in the days ahead.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in response, spoke to NSAs from India and Pakistan on Wednesday and urged them to avoid escalation.

The staements from US President Donald Trump, US NSA and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi all echoed an urgent need for communication and de-escalation of a possible conflict.

A spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reframed the issue in a global context, explaining that an already conflict-ridden world could not afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan.

"The Secretary-General is very concerned about the Indian military operations across the Line of Control and international border. He calls for maximum military restraint from both countries," the spokesperson added.
Pakistan were caught napping yet again, as India launched Operation Sindoor in the intervening night of May 6-7, striking nine terror locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.

The precision strikes were carried out on strongholds of Jaish-e-Mohammad, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen, in response to the deadly Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 in which 26 tourists and a local horse ride operator were killed.

The targets included Markaz Subhan Allah at Bahawalpur, Sarjal at Tehra Kalan, Markaz Abbas in Kotli and Syedna Bilal camp in Muzaffarabad, of the JeM; Markaz Taiba at Murdike, Markaz Ahle Hadith at Barnala and Shwawai Nalla camp at Muzaffarabad of the LeT, and Makaz Raheel Shahid in Kotli and Mehmoona Joya in Sialkot of the Hizbul Mujahideen.

A day before the Operation Sindoor was launched, India had announced a large-scale military drill along the Indo-Pak border today, featuring fighter jets Su-30 MKI, Rafale, Jaguar, MiG-29, Mirage-2000, Tejas and AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) among others. A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was issued by the civil aviation authorities for the air exercise, which was to take place along the southern and western sections of the India-Pakistan border.

The drills were to begin at 9pm today and end at 3am on Friday, and during the military drill, the IAF jets were to simulate enemy targets on the ground and in the air and hit them with deadly precision.

However, Operation Sindoor was launched at 1:44am on May 7, catching Pakistan off-guard. The strikes on all nine targets  four are in Pakistan and the remaining five are in PoK  were successful.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had entrusted the armed forces with "complete operational freedom" to decide on the mode, targets and timing of India's response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh had met PM Modi on Sunday and briefed him about the IAF's operational readiness.

Sources said the terror headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammad in Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Muridke were destroyed successfully, making this operation much more impactful than earlier surgical strikes by India. In the Balakot strike in 2019 and strikes in PoK after Uri in 2016, only terror camps were targeted.

It was business as usual for PM Modi yesterday, conducting meetings and also attending a media event. It brought back memories of his demeanour ahead of the Balakot strikes in 2019 in response to the Pulwama terror attack which killed more than 40 Indian security personnel. On February 25, a day ahead of the Balakot strikes, Modi dedicated the National War Memorial to the nation in New Delhi and went about his official duties as usual. He also spoke at a summit even as the strike was being launched at night.

Six years down the line, it was deja vu, as Modi talked about Indias economic aspirations, at a media event. Hours later, India carried out the strikes on nine terror sites in Pakistan and PoK.
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
Pakistan Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif condemned the military action by India on imaginary terrorist camps and vowed to respond, in self-defence, at a time, place, and manner of its choosing.

A statement from PMO in Islamabad said the National Security Committee (NSC), convened under the chairmanship of the PM, extended its heartfelt condolences to the family members of people killed in 'Operation Sindoor' by Indian security agencies against the terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan.

Pakistan dubbed the operation unprovoked, cowardly and unlawful act of war," and claimed that India's actions constituted acts of war under international laws.

Confirming India's action, the PM's office said the Indian armed forces launched coordinated missile, air and drone strikes on multiple locations within Pakistan, including Sialkot, Shakargarh, Muridke and Bahawalpur in Punjab, Kotli and Muzaffarabad.

Pakistan claimed that the strikes caused damage to the civilian infrastructure, including mosques, and led to loss of civilian lives.

According to Pakistan, Indias "act of aggression" caused "grave danger to commercial airlines belonging to brotherly gulf countries, endangering the lives of thousands of on-board passengers."

ALSO READ: Who is Sajid Mir? The glaring example cited by India of Pakistan terror complicity after Operation Sindoor

Further, Pakistan said India refused to accept the offer for a "credible, transparent and neutral investigation" into the Pahalgam terror attack which left 26 people dead.

Pakistan said India undertook the operation against terror hideouts in Pakistan "to satiate its delusional thoughts and short-sighted political objectives."

"In consonance with Article-51 of the UN Charter, Pakistan reserves the right to respond, in self-defence, at a time, place, and manner of its choosing to avenge the loss of innocent Pakistani lives and blatant violation of its sovereignty. The Armed Forces of Pakistan have duly been authorised to undertake corresponding actions in this regard," the statement from Pakistan PMO said.

NSC urged the international community to recognise the gravity of Indias actions and to hold it accountable for its "violations of international norms and laws."

"Pakistan remains committed to peace, with dignity and honour, and reiterates that it shall never allow any violation of its sovereignty, territorial integrity or permit any harm to its proud people," the statement further said.
The Indian Army on Wednesday released videos of the havoc it wrought in a tense half-hour past midnight. 24 missiles were fired in rapid succession on Pakistan and PoK, leading to the deaths of 70 terrorists across nine terror camps in the attacked areas.

The strikes, which lasted from about 1:00AM to 1:30AM on Wednesday, were carried out in a joint operationcodenamed 'Operation Sindoor'between the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force.

ALSO READ | Pakistan's declaration of war? PM Shehbaz Sharif says Pak armed forces authorised respond to 'Operation Sindoor'

At a press briefing in New Delhi later in the night, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, with Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh by his side, announced that the operation was a measured and proportionate response to the terrifying Pahalgam attack of April 22, that saw as many as 26 people killedmost of whom were civiliansand many more injured.

#OperationSindoor | Indian Army releases videos of Indian strikes on Pakistani terror camps. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed.



(Videos Source: Indian Army) pic.twitter.com/qqzCG5ae1S  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

Despite being low-resolution videos, each video very clearly showed a devastating blast, taking out the terrorist camp in that area. So far, the Indian army has released footage of the attacks on Sawai Nalla, Sarjal, Muridke, Kotli, Kotli Gulpur, Mehmoona Joya, Bhimber, and Bahawalpur.

#OperationSindoor | Indian Army releases videos of Indian strikes on Pakistani terror camps. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed.



(Videos Source: Indian Army) pic.twitter.com/oO1giR1xFC  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

While some clips seems to be taken on land, most clips seem to be pilot and UAV reconnaissance footage, indicating the extreme precision of the strikes, and the devastating power of the Indian defence forces.

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi said that the operation marked a radical shift in the country's strategy.

"For the last three decades, Pakistan has been constructing terror infrastructure, including recruitment centres, training areas, and launch pads across PoJK and Pakistan. This operation was intended to dismantle those facilities and prevent future attacks," she explained.

ALSO READ | Did India wipe out 13 members of Jaish-e-Mohammad leader Masood Azhar's family with 'Operation Sindoor'?

"Our intelligence indicated that further attacks against India are impending. Thus, compulsion, both to deter and prevent and hence earlier this morning, India exercised its right to respond to deter such more cross-border terrorism ... Our actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible. They focused on dismantling terrorists' infrastructure," Misri said.

According to a statement by the government, all strikes achieved their objectives, and although the operation was extensive, no Pakistani civilians or military installations were targeted.
Writer/director Scott Frank, who created the acclaimed Netflix limited series The Queen's Gambit, is back to long-form storytelling with Dept. Q  an investigative thriller series led by Matthew Goode (Watchmen, Abigail), who plays an eccentric detective named Carl Morck. Netflix has released the first trailer.

Set in Edinburgh, Scotland, Dept. Q is based on Danish novelist Jussi Adler-Olsen's books of the same name featuring Morck, a once-efficient English detective now grappling with the aftermath of a deadly event that caused two casualties.

The series marks Goode's second collaboration with Frank after 2007's The Lookout, Frank's directorial debut. On being drawn to the books, Frank told Netflix that the idea has been in his mind for over two decades  the idea of one man-led underground department dedicated to solving cold cases. Adler-Olsen's wish to have Frank strongly involved in the material came true when, out of the nine episodes, Frank directed six aside from doing sole writing and co-writing duties on all episodes.

Goode's portrayal of Morck is said to be peculiar, given how the character is still dealing with the tragic event's trauma when he returns to take charge of the titular department in the Scottish police force, a PR-dictated move to boost the image of the organisation. His new duties will take him to some dark, unforeseen corners.

Goode is joined by cast members Kate Dickie (The Day of the Jackal, Game of Thrones), Kelly Macdonald (No Country for Old Men, Trainspotting), Jamie Sives, Mark Bonnar, Mark Bonnar, Alexej Manvelov, Leah Byrne, and others.

Dept. Q will premiere globally on Netflix on May 29, 2025.
BEIJING, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday sent a congratulatory message to Friedrich Merz on his election as chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany.

Noting that China and Germany are all-round strategic partners, Xi said since establishing diplomatic relations 53 years ago, the two countries have treated each other with mutual respect, trust and equality.

The two countries have consistently followed a path of mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation, growing into good partners that advance together and help each other succeed, and promoting the steady and sound development of bilateral relations through high-level cooperation, said Xi.

Today's world is marked by intertwined transformation and upheaval, with surging headwinds of unilateralism and protectionism, Xi noted.

Yet peace, development, cooperation and win-win outcomes remain the right way forward for humanity and an unstoppable trend of the times, Xi said.

As the world's second- and third-largest economies and two major countries with global influence, China and Germany should follow the trend of history, uphold fairness and justice, deepen exchanges and mutual learning, strengthen solidarity and cooperation, work together to weather storms and tempests, enhance the well-being of their peoples, and jointly promote an equitable and orderly multipolar world and an inclusive economic globalization, said Xi.

Xi said he highly regards the development of China-Germany relations, and is ready to work with the chancellor to stick to the original aspiration in establishing diplomatic relations, consolidate political mutual trust, deepen exchanges and cooperation, and open a new chapter in the all-round strategic partnership between China and Germany, so as to guide China-EU cooperation in the right direction, and jointly promote world peace, stability, and prosperity.

On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Qiang sent a congratulatory message to Merz on his election as German chancellor.

Noting that China and Germany are all-round strategic partners, Li said the practical cooperation between the two sides in various fields has yielded remarkable results and has broad prospects.

Equality, mutual benefit, cooperation, and win-win outcomes are the historical choices made by both countries and the most distinctive features of China-Germany relations, which should be carefully nurtured, inherited and promoted by both sides, Li said.

The Chinese premier said he looks forward to establishing and maintaining a sound working relationship with Merz, deepening exchanges and jointly promoting development, enhancing understanding and building consensus, continuously enriching the connotation of the China-Germany all-round strategic partnership, and guiding China-Germany and China-EU cooperation in the right direction.

Editor: ZAD
In the wee hours of Wednesday morning, India launched Operation Sindoor, a response to the deadly Pahalgam attack that claimed the lives of 26 souls on April 22. An official statement was released by the Ministry of Defense, which confirmed India struck nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir at 1:44 ama meticulously planned strike that avoided Pakistans military bases.

ALSO READ | Operation Sindoor: Uncertainty grips Kashmir, after India's retaliatory move

As reactions from citizens erupted, celebrities also weighed in on the matter, many reacting to the strike on social media. Actor Akshay Kumar (Kesari Chapter 2, Hera Pheri) took to X (formerly Twitter) to show his support for the retaliatory efforts taken by the government. Jai Hind, Jai Mahakaal, he wrote, accompanied by a poster of Operation Sindoor, officially released by the Additional Directorate General of Public Information.

Jai Hind 

Jai Mahakaal  pic.twitter.com/h7Z6xJAklH  Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) May 7, 2025

Director Madhur Bhandarkar, best known for his 2008 drama flick Fashion, offered prayers to the Indian military. One nation, together we stand, he wrote.

Our prayers are with our forces. One nation, together we stand. Jai Hind, Vande Mataram.  pic.twitter.com/IyiOX8hqma  Madhur Bhandarkar (@imbhandarkar) May 6, 2025

Taapsee Pannu (Khel Khel Mein, Dunki) reshared a post by the Hemkunt Foundation on her Instagram story that informed of relief centres spread across the nation.

Kajal Aggarwal (Sikandar, Baadshah) shared a post by the MaitriBodh Parivaar, which stated that they stand in solidarity with the Indian Army and trust the decision of the nation.

Superstar Rajinikanth (Vettaiyan, Jailer) lauded the action taken by the Indian government. He penned on X, No stopping until the mission is accomplished!

The fighter's fight begins...



No stopping until the mission is accomplished!



The entire NATION is with you. @PMOIndia @HMOIndia#OperationSindoor



JAI HIND   Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) May 7, 2025

Allu Arjun (Pushpa series) posted the Operation Sindoor poster featuring vermilion with the caption, May justice be served, on X.

May justice be served . Jai Hind  #OperationSindoor pic.twitter.com/LUOdzZM8Z5  Allu Arjun (@alluarjun) May 7, 2025

Actress-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut took to X to show her support for the efforts taken against Pakistan. She wrote: OPERATION SINDOOR: ZERO TOLERANCE TO TERROR
Mock security drills were carried out in 55 locations in the national capital alone on Wednesday amidst fears of Indo-Pak tensions escalating in the backdrop of the Pahalgam terror attack and the retaliatory 'Operation Sindoor'. Under the nationwide mega civil defence mock drill 'Operation Abhyaas', mock drills simulating multiple hostile scenarios like air raids, multiple fire emergencies, and search and rescue operations among others were carried out.

VIDEO | Delhi: Mock drills being conducted at NK Bagrodia School, Rohini.



(Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7)#mockdrills pic.twitter.com/RnRDMt81jT  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 7, 2025

The scenarios that were tried during the drills included shifting injured people on stretchers, rushing masses to safer locations, preparing for air raids, dealing with fire emergencies and the like. PCR vans and fire engines were stationed at multiple locations while there was a heavy deployment of security personnel and civil defence volunteers.

When the alarm sirens were played, people were asked to run as part of the evacuation drill that was carried out. Civil defence volunteers, personnel and NCC cadets were part of the drill that took place in Chandni Chowk, reports said.

Signalling the start of rescue efforts, a second siren was sounded and volunteers were told to take care of the injured. Citizens were asked to remain calm and take care of anybody in the vicinity who needed a hand to get back on their toes.

#WATCH | Delhi: A comprehensive mock drill is being conducted at NDMC Office.



MHA has ordered a nationwide mock drill today. pic.twitter.com/yXDl8jpmY0  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

Sirens were sounded at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport were fire brigade teams rushed to the spot along with medical teams and multiple ambulances, PTI reported

At the NDMC building, an alarm siren was sounded and employees were evacuated and rushed to the basement.

A mock drill was also conducted in the RBI building with instructions being given to stay away from glass windows and find a safe place to hide covering heads with both hands.

The mock drills happened hours after missile strikes by the Indian armed forces early Wednesday on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). The military strikes were conducted as Operation Sindoor two weeks after the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians.
While the nation's attention was glued to Operation Sindoor, security forces conducted an assault on left extremists in the forests of Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district. 22 Naxalites were killed in an encounter in the forests of Bijapur bordering Telangana on Wednesday as Operation Sankalp, the massive counter-insurgency initiative, wages on in the area, a senior police official said.

According to reports, the gunfight broke out in the morning in the Karregutta Hills forest along the interstate border. Police sources said that the dead bodies of 22 Naxalites have been recovered so far and the search operation is still underway. Many senior-level Maoists have either been killed or seriously injured during the gunfight before being dragged to the safety of deep forests by their "comrades," the officials said.

ALSO READ | Chhattisgarh, MP, Telangana remain Maoist strongholds as India sees decline in Left-wing extremism

The operation was launched based on inputs about the presence of senior cadres of Battalion No. 1, the strongest military formation of Maoists, Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZC) and Telangana state committee of Maoists, news agency PTI reported. The area surrounded by dense forests and lined by hills is believed to be the base of the Maoist Battalion No. 1, it added.

The total number of Naxalites gunned down under Operation Sankalp since April 21 has now climbed to 26.

24,000 security personnel from different units including District Reserve Guard (DRG), Bastar Fighters, Special Task Force (STF), all units of state police, Central reserve Police Force (CRPF) and its elite unit CoBRA are involved in the counter-insurgency operation going on Bastar.

ALSO READ | Security forces neutralise 6 Naxals in Jharkhand, recover arms

The official said hundreds of Naxal hideouts and bunkers have been destroyed so far during the operation, and a huge cache of explosive material, detonators, medicines, and other items was seized.

With the latest action, 168 Naxalites have been gunned down in separate encounters in Chhattisgarh so far this year. Of them, 151 were eliminated in the Bastar division, comprising seven districts, including Bijapur.
A popular bakery known for their biscuits and confectionery items, Karachi Bakery has once again become a target for naming their brand after one of the largest cities in Pakistan.

In the last 48 hours, the bakerys management endured threats, protests and vandalism as tensions intensified between India and Pakistan. The most recent warning came from the Telangana chapter of the Bajrang Dal in the backdrop of 'Operation Sindoor'.

Shivaram, the Convenor of the state's Bajrang Dal said:

When there are war clouds over India and Pakistan, Bajrang Dal is warning those who love Pakistan to leave the country. The names which are linked to Pakistan should also be changed. Hyderabad based Karachi Bakerys name should be changed. We should stand by our army and remove any references to Pakistan. If they do not change the name then nobody should visit the store. We will change the name, if they dont.

Karachi Bakerys branches in the neighbouring states were also targeted by the Hindutva groups. Members of Janajagrana Samithi, a Hindutva outfit backed by the local BJP cell and RSS, protested at one of the benches of the Karachi bakery in Vizag, demanding that they change its name.

The protestors even attempted to vandalise the bakery, putting forward the same argument that the name could be changed to any word that would look and sound Indian.

ALSO READ | Operation Sindoor: Telangana CM Revanth Reddy lauds strikes, emergency machinery on alert

Karachi Bakery was founded by a Hindu migrant, Khanchand Ramnani of Sindhi origin who hailed from Karachi. The bakery was started in 1953, a few years after the Partition. Karachi Bakery has encountered similar incidents in the past, especially when there has been a terrorist attack where fingers are pointed towards Pakistan.

The bakery shared a story on their Instagram page trying to diffuse the situation.

Karachi bakery is 100% Indian brand, founded in Hyderabad in 1953. Our name is part of our history, not nationality. Please support us for who we are  an Indian brand serving India with love.

In Hyderabad, Karachi Bakery even stuck Indian flags at the entrance of their stores.
India on Wednesday justified Operation Sindoor, stating that Pakistan failed to act against the perpetrators of Pahalgam terror attack. The airstrikes were a "measured, non-escalatory, proportionate, and responsible" answer to Pakistan's support of cross-border terrorism.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said terrorists linked to LeT and Pakistan carried out savage attack on 26 people, including a Nepali citizen. "Victims were mostly shot in the head at close range. The manner of attack was also driven by an objective of communal discord but these designs were foiled," he said.

#WATCH | Delhi | #OperationSindoor| Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri says, "Our intelligence indicated that further attacks against India are impending. Thus, compulsion, both to deter and prevent and hence earlier this morning, India exercised its right to respond to deter such pic.twitter.com/M1VJfEMNpm  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

Col. Sofia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh were present at the press briefing.

He said Lashkar-e-Taiba is operating in India through proxy groups like The Resistance Front. It is notable that India had given inputs about the TRF to the UN monitoring team earlier, he added. In December 2023, India had informed the UN panel that LeT and JeM operating through groups like TRF, according to Misri

Misri pointed out that communication notes in and to Pakistan have been revealed. "On April 25, Pakistan's pressure to remove the reference to TRF from the media release shouldn't be ignored. The Pahalgam terrorist attack has exposed the links of Pakistan with terrorists," Misri said.

Misri said the Indian intelligence identified those involved and planners of Pahalgam attack. "This morning, India exercised its right to dismantle terror infrastructure," he added.

"India exercised its right to respond to deter such more cross-border terrorism... Our actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible. They focused on dismantling terrorists' infrastructure," he added
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has behaved the way a head of the family would behave under such circumstances. The Indian army and the government has taken the right step, said Sumathi Rao, mother of Pahalgam terror attack victim Manjunath Rao, a realtor from Shivamogga, who was killed along with 25 others by terrorists at Baisaran meadows on April 22.

Hailing the Indian government's "Operation Sindoor" that destroyed nine terror camps in Pakistan in the wee hours of Tuesday, Sumathi said, "My son will never come back. I believe unarmed innocent people should not have been attacked. My son became a victim. But I had faith that justice would be delivered and have been patiently waiting for it. I am still not fully satisfied as the terrorists deserve greater punishment," she added.

The grieving mother said she had anticipated some retaliation and hoped that those who targeted innocents would not be spared.

"I also pray that no innocent lives are lost in the process," she added.

Sumathi said that after the family has completed the religious rites and rituals, they are still recovering from the shock. "After the terror attack, it bothered me to think that people travel to foreign countries and come back home safe. But we are not safe in our own country (Kashmir)," rued the grieving mother, who confided her son had been calling her every day during the Kashmir tour and expressed his joy and had assured her it was safe, until the day terrorists killed him and 25 others at Baisaran meadows in Pahalgam.

"I believe this (Operation Sindoor) will bring peace to my son's soul. I have faith in Modi. And our Indian armed forces have never failed. We will pray for their safety and good health always," said Sumathi.

The family members of another victim Bharat Bhushan welcomed the Operation Sindoor.

"We will stand by our government and its decision as we are sure it is a well thought out plan," said Preetham, brother of the slain techie from Bengaluru.

"Tension between India and Pakistan has lasted for too long. We must teach them (a lesson) in the language they understand," asserted Preetham.

"It is hard to imagine Bharat will not come back to us, be a brother to me, father to Havish or the you ger son to my parents. I pray no family loses their son. So, the government is taking the right step. We will always stand by the government," said Preetham.

"I thank the government and our soldiers. Pakistan has been breeding terror camps. India has given a befitting reply and destroyed nine of those terror camps and killed at least a 100 terrorists is what I hear. India should hunt down even those terrorists who have escaped. Our government should stand firm and protect its citizens and ensure that no more terror attacks like the Pahalgam incident take place in India. I also feel for the families of our Army men being killed by Pakistan along the LoC," said Chennaveerappa, father of late Bharat.
At a high-level meeting led by Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) announced that there will be no immediate water cuts in the city of Mumbai in the immediate future.

The current water stock in the reservoirs stands at only 22.66 per cent of total capacity and the total available water stock is 3.28 lakh million litres (ML). This lower of the water is because of high evaporation during this time of the year, when summers lead to excessive heat in the city.

Despite this drop, civic officials assured that planning has been done to maintain adequate water supply until July 31.

A BMC official reportedly said that as of now there will not be any water cuts but he also said that citizens must remain conscious about saving water.

The state government has approved the release of 68,000 ML from the Upper Vaitarna Dam and 113,000 ML from the Bhatsa Dam to support Mumbais water needs.

The BMC provides around 3,950 million litres of water to the city daily. On the same date last year, the stock stood slightly higher at 3.33 lakh ML (23.01 per cent). The final decision on water cuts will depend on future rainfall forecasts.

Experts say that there are many problems associated with Mumbai's water supply and the biggest is that the sources, that is the lakes, lie as far as 120 kilometres from the city, connected via a critical but an ageing network of tunnels.

Despite this vast infrastructure, Mumbai faces a daily shortfall of nearly 450 million litres. And this is because of high leakage rates and unaccounted-for water loss which continue to challenge supply efficiency.

Even today, many in the slum areas lack direct water connections, relying instead on shared standpipes or tanker supply.

While the BMC has proposed ambitious plans including desalination plants and reuse of treated wastewater, nothing has taken off on the ground.
Mock drills were carried out across India on Wednesday following a directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). States were asked to conduct such exercises in light of "new and complex threats" emerging after the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 civilians. The scenarios that were tried during the drills included shifting injured people on stretchers, rushing masses to safer locations, preparing for air raids, dealing with fire emergencies and the like. PCR vans and fire engines were stationed at multiple locations while there was a heavy deployment of security personnel and civil defence volunteers. Here is how 'Operation Abhyaas' was carried out in different parts of the country:

VIDEO | Mock drill conducted in Ladakh's Kargil earlier today.



The Ministry of Home Affairs on Monday asked several states to conduct mock drills on Wednesday in view of "new and complex threats" that have emerged amid rising tension with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror pic.twitter.com/SFsQgA2xYi  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 7, 2025

NEW DELHI: PCR vans and fire engines were stationed at multiple locations while there was a heavy deployment of security personnel and civil defence volunteers. At Khan Market, alarm sirens were played and people were asked to run as part of the evacuation drill that was carried out.

In Chandni Chowk, a mock drill was carried out in the presence of civil defence volunteers, personnel and NCC cadets. Alarm sirens were blaring in the market area as the evacuation drill began at Chandni Chowk near Town Hall, prompting people to run towards safer places. Delhi Fire Services cranes were used to reach high-rise buildings and evacuate people who were trapped. A mock drill was also conducted in the RBI building, among other places, with instructions being given to stay away from glass windows and find a safe place to hide covering heads with both hands.

MUMBAI: A civil defence team from Central Railway on Wednesday conducted a mock drill at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT). As part of the exercise, Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) personnel also conducted separate and joint security drills. The GRP and RPF carried out a route march, patrolling, and checks at various railway stations, Mumbai Police said. During the exercise, civil defence volunteers in yellow T-shirts simulated various scenarios to assess coordination, response time, and overall readiness, officials said.

#WATCH | Mumbai, Maharashtra: A mock drill is being carried out at Mumbai's Cross Maidan.



MHA has ordered a nationwide mock drill today. pic.twitter.com/q7DEzQeOAM  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

The civic defence team, consisting of around 20 volunteers, demonstrated fire safety measures, methods for extinguishing fires, procedures to follow during air strikes, and techniques for rescuing and reviving injured civilians. The drill was conducted in the open space between the suburban and mainline corridors of CSMT, attracting a large number of curious onlookers.

TELANGANA: The drills were carried out in Secunderabad, Golkonda, Kanchan Bagh, and the Nacharam NFC area. Sirens were activated at 4 pm in Hyderabad within the Outer Ring Road (ORR), signalling the start of the drill. Citizens were instructed to stay indoors, seek shelter, and take cover. Sirens were sounded again at 4.30 pm to mark the end of the drills, reported PTI. Senior police officials monitored the mock drills from the Integrated Command and Control Centre.

JHARKHAND: The three-hour-long drills are being conducted in five districts Ranchi, Jamshedpur, Bokaro, Godda, and Sahibganj in coordination with civil defence organisations. In the state capital of Ranchi, the exercise was held in the Doranda area, under drizzling weather conditions, and is scheduled to continue until 7 PM. An administrative official said various activities such as danger warnings through sirens, blackouts, keeping major infrastructure safe and evacuation of injured in case of an accident are being performed as part of the mock drill.

NORTHEAST: A civil defence mock drill was carried 18 places across 14 'civil defence districts' of Assam on Wednesday as preparedness for any air attack following the Pahalgam terror strike, a senior official said. The drill began at 4 pm and was completed within half an hour, Home Guard and Civil Defence Inspector General of Police Arabinda Kalita told PTI.

Meanwhile, it was carried out at a few designated locations in Mizoram's Aizawl on Wednesday. The drills were conducted in a 2 km stretch between the All India Radio (AIR) station at Tuikhuahtlang locality and Aizawl Civil Hospital in Dawrpui, an official said.

ODISHA: Civil defence mock drills were conducted in 12 districts of Odisha. Bhubaneswar, Sambalpur and Rourkela were among the cities that witnessed the mock drills taking place. Similar drills were conducted in Angul, Balasore, Bhadrak, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Ganjam, Dhenkanal, Puri, Koraput and Sundargarh districts, officials said. People lay on the ground as fire services teams doused a controlled blaze and rescued some people stuck there. The situation returned to normal after another siren was blared.
Are you taking a flight within, from or to India? Please confirm the flight status before leaving home. The status of airports will keep changing throughout the day, so please monitor the situation closely.

According to airline handles on X, the following airports are affected at least until noon on May 7:

1. Dharamshala (DHM), Himachal Pradesh

2. Leh (IXL), UT of Ladakh

3. Jammu (IXJ), UT of Jammu and Kashmir

4. Srinagar (SXR), UT of Jammu and Kashmir

5. Amritsar (ATQ), Punjab

6. Kandla (IXY), Gujarat

7. Jodhpur (JDH), Rajasthan

8. Bhuj (BHJ), Gujarat

9. Jamnagar (JGA), Jamnagar

10. Chandigarh (IXC), UT of Chandigarh

11. Rajkot (RAJ), Gujarat

12. Gwalior (GWL), Madhya Pradesh

Air India confirmed that "two international flights enroute to Amritsar are being diverted to Delhi. Spice Jet has said that affected passengers can opt for a full refund or an alternate flight, as per availability. Qatar Airways has suspended flights to Pakistan due to airspace closure.

Spice Jet

throughhttp://changes.spicejet.com. For more information, contact its 24x7 customer care helpline +91 0124 4983410 or +91 0124 7101600.

Air India

Contact Centre on 011-69329333 / 011-69329999 or website http://airindia.com

Air India Express

For alerts and notifications on flights, please ensure that the passengers contact details are updated on http://airindiaexpress.com/manage-booking. For confirming flight status, check http://airindiaexpress.com/flight-status or #ChatWithTia. For immediate assistance, call +91 63600 12345

IndiGo

IndiGo flights can be tracked here: https://www.goindigo.in/check-flight-status.html. If your flight is cancelled, visit http://bit.ly/31lwD2y to rebook or claim a refund.

Akasa Air

For flight status, check http://bit.ly/qpfltsts. For further assistance, call Akasa Care Centre on +91 9606 112131.

The restrictions were put in place on May 7 after Indian armed forces carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base in Muridke.
The widely-expected Indian military retribution came in the intervening night of May 6-7, when Indian Air Force fighter planes bombed as many as nine locations in Pakistan and in Pakistan occupied Kashmir.

Code-named Operation Sindoor, the strikes were precision-based and targeted terrorist camps that had already been identified by the Indian security establishment.

"A little while ago, the Indian armed forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," the defence ministry said in a statement at 1.44am.

Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution, the release said.

According to official sources, India had briefed a few countries on the military action undertaken. Among these are US, UK, Saudi Arabia, UAE and Russia.

The Indian action came after a brutal massacre of 26 tourists by Pakistan-backed terrorists in Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22.

More details are expected shortly.

Meanwhile, during the night, Pakistan Army resorted to arbitrary firing including artillery shelling from posts across the Line of Control and International Border opposite J&K.

Three civilians were killed in indiscriminate firing.
An aerial drone photo taken on May 2, 2025 shows performances during an event marking the beginning of rice planting in the terraced fields in Jiayin Village of Honghe County of Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Xinhua/Hu Chao)

KUNMING, May 6 (Xinhua) --Rice cultivation, fish farming, and duck raising -- all in the awe-inspiring terraces. It is a way of life that weaves a story of ecological harmony, traditional wisdom, and modern innovation.

The Cultural Landscape of Honghe Hani Rice Terraces was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2013. The terraces cascade down the slopes of the towering Ailao Mountains to the banks of the Honghe River.

Over the past 1,300 years, the Hani people have developed a complex system of channels to bring water from the forested mountaintops to the terraces. This forms a symbiotic agricultural ecosystem of forests, villages, terraces, and rivers.

As the terraces flourished, so did the popularity of products like red rice, paddy fish, and duck eggs. Coupled with the allure of Hani's ancient songs, traditional farming methods, and ethnic festivals, the terraces have attracted tourists from around the globe.

An aerial drone photo taken on Feb. 26, 2025 shows a view of the terraced fields and traditional Hani houses, known locally as "mushroom houses," in Azheke Village of Yuanyang County of Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Xinhua/Hu Chao)

An aerial drone photo taken on Feb. 26, 2025 shows villagers maintaining the ridges of terraced fields in Azheke Village of Yuanyang County of Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Xinhua/Hu Chao)

Tourists visit the terraced fields in Azheke Village of Yuanyang County of Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Feb. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Hu Chao)

An aerial drone photo taken on May 2, 2025 shows performances during an event marking the beginning of rice planting in the terraced fields in Jiayin Village of Honghe County of Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Xinhua/Hu Chao)

An aerial drone photo taken on May 2, 2025 shows villagers transplanting rice seedlings in the terraced fields in Jiayin Village of Honghe County of Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Xinhua/Hu Chao)

An aerial drone photo taken on Feb. 26, 2025 shows a villager plowing the terraced fields in Azheke Village of Yuanyang County of Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Xinhua/Hu Chao)

Tourists have dinner at a restaurant of a homestay in Azheke Village of Yuanyang County of Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Feb. 27, 2025. (Xinhua/Hu Chao)

Villagers maintain the ridges of terraced fields in Azheke Village of Yuanyang County of Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Feb. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Anhaowei)

A villager maintains the thatched roof of traditional Hani houses, known locally as "mushroom houses," in Azheke Village of Yuanyang County of Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Feb. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Hu Chao)

This combo photo shows a drone conducting patrol missions (L, drone photo), and a staff member of the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces world heritage management bureau operating drones to carry out patrol missions (R), in Yuanyang County of Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Feb. 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Hu Chao)

An aerial drone photo taken on Feb. 26, 2025 shows a view of the terraced fields in Azheke Village of Yuanyang County of Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Xinhua/Hu Chao)

Villagers perform during an event marking the beginning of rice planting in the terraced fields in Jiayin Village of Honghe County of Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province, May 2, 2025. (Xinhua/Hu Chao)

Editor: GSY
Hybrid warsemploying both kinetic and non-kinetic forceare here and are there to stay. The official briefing at the National Media Centre in the national capital by Indias foreign secretary Vikram Misri, Indian Armys Colonel Sophiya Qureshi and IAFs Wing Commander Vyomika Singh following Operation Sindoor executed in superb coordination on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir and deep inside Pakistan was brilliant on narratives.

The waves of precisely-aimed attacks in the intervening night of May 6-7 by Indian Armys aerial assets including missiles and the IAFs fighter aircraft on nine terror targets began at about 1.05 am and concluded at 1.30 am.

The farthest target was the Markaz Subhan Allah of the Jaish-e-Mohammad terror network in Bahawalpur in Pakistans Punjab province, about 100 km from the border.

#WATCH | Delhi | #OperationSindoor| Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri says, " A group calling itself the Resistance Front has claimed responsibility for the attack. This group is a Front for UN proscribed Pakistani terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba...Investigations into the Pahalgam pic.twitter.com/JqpIbHrttN  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

That these attacks could be conducted inside Pakistan right under the nose of a military that has been on total alert since the Pahalgam massacre is demonstrative of Indian military capability.

With the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam on hapless tourists clearly aimed at provoking communal discord, to have two female officersof Hindu and Muslim faithsaddress the media was a messaging that was not lost on the world. Besides depicting women at the forefrontveritable signs of a progressive societyit was also to underline that the country stands comfortably united in its nationhood.

But before that Pakistans Inter Services Public Relationsan integrated media wing of the Pakistan military establishment did go to town with questionable narratives of many IAF fighters being shot down.

The foreign secretarys brief address did strike a quintessential note of warning to Pakistan when Misri said: These actions were measured, non-escalatory, proportionate, and responsible. They focused on dismantling the terrorist infrastructure and disabling terrorists likely to be sent across to India.

Our intelligence monitoring of Pakistan-based terrorist modules indicated that further attacks against India were impending. There was thus a compulsion both to deter and to pre-empt.

The fact that Misri chose to say that the attacks were non-escalatory and proportionate indicates Indias wish not to escalate it into a war which has the potential of transforming into a nuclear flashpoint with both countries having stacked sufficient stockpiles of nuclear weapons.

Col Qureshi said: The selection of these targets for Operation Sindoor was based on credible intelligence inputs and role of these facilities in perpetrating the terror activities. The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives.

Wing Commander Singh added that no Pakistani military installations were targeted.

But at the same time, with Pakistan warning of retaliation may be indicative of the fact that things are only beginning to heat up between India and Pakistan.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday lauded the Indian Army's 'Operation Sindoor' as a "decisive blow" to cross-border terrorism and assured Karnatakas full backing for the central governments actions.

The Chief Minister, who addressed a press conference in Bengaluru wearing 'sindoor' (vermillion) on his forehead, commended the Indian Armys precision strikes that targeted terrorist bases not only in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) but also deep inside Pakistani territory.

"Our soldiers have shown extraordinary courage by hitting terror hubs inside enemy territory," he said.

While declaring that India would never compromise on national security, Siddaramaiah explained that Pakistans continued support to militants had left India with no choice but to retaliate.

"These strikes send a clear messageIndia will retaliate fiercely. The strikes are a stern warning, not just to Pakistan but to any country backing terrorism against India," asserted the CM, adding that the operation had reportedly destroyed multiple terror launch pads while avoiding civilian harm.

"Our forces executed the mission flawlessly, targeting only terrorists," he said.

The CM condemning Pakistans involvement in the recent Pahalgam massacre, where 26 innocents were killed, said: "The world knows Pakistan shelters terrorists. Indias strikes were justified and necessary."

#WATCH | Bengaluru: On #OperationSindoor, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah says, "...In 9 places, Indian Army has attacked terrorists' sites...no other places were attack, no innocent people in Pakistan were attacked. this step comes in the wake of barbaric Pahalgam attack...we support pic.twitter.com/cnVTLH7rHz  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

Karnataka on alert

The state government is closely coordinating with the Centre and has ramped up security.

"We are vigilant, and citizens should remain calm," Siddaramaiah assured.

Siddaramaiah reaffirmed his governments full support to the Centres decision, urging national unity.

"This is not the time for politics but for standing together as Indians," he declared.
Tensions escalated along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB) as seven civilians were killed in heavy overnight shelling by Pakistani forces after India's launch of Operation Sindoor, a targeted military action against terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the April 22 Pahalgam attack in which 26 tourists and a local horse ride operator were killed.

All the seven deaths were reported in Poonch district with another 25 persons injured, officials said.

Defence sources said that during the intervening night of May 6 and 7, the Pakistan Army resorted to intense and indiscriminate firing, including artillery shelling, from across the border.

#WATCH | Civilian areas targeted by the Pakistan army as they continue to violate the ceasefire.



Visuals from a village in the border areas of Jammu & Kashmir pic.twitter.com/lSl9YqLoMC  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

This aggression came hours after the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out precision strikes on nine identified terror targets in Pakistan and PoK.

Among the victims was a woman whose house was directly hit by a mortar shell in the Mankote area of Poonch district. Her 13-year-old daughter sustained injuries and is undergoing treatment. Nine more civilians were injured in separate incidents of shelling across different sectors of Poonch. Their condition is reported to be stable.

The shelling has prompted authorities to shut all schools, colleges, and educational institutions in five border districts of Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri, and Poonch.

Reports of shelling have emerged from multiple sectors, including Krishna Ghati and Shahpur in Poonch, Laam, Manjakote, and Gambeer Brahmana in Rajouri, as well as the Karnah and Uri sectors in north Kashmirs Kupwara and Baramulla districts.

Residents in these areas were forced to take shelter in underground bunkers as Indian security forces responded in equal measure to Pakistans ceasefire violations.

Schools in areas near the Srinagar airport were also reportedly closed as a precautionary measure. All examination scheduled today have also been cancelled.

Meanwhile, security has been tightened along all key border sectors, and residents have been advised to remain vigilant.
Hours after India confirmed military strikes on terrorist targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, the Congress and other opposition parties rallied behind the Union government, expressing support and solidarity.

India avenged the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 civilians, early on Wednesday by striking strongholds of Jaish-e-Mohammad, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen in a pre-dawn action code-named Operation Sindoor.

The Additional Directorate General of Public Information, IHQ of MoD (Army), in a post on X, shared the image of 'Operation Sindoor', soon after the strikes. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, too, took to X to comment on the military action.

   !  Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) May 6, 2025

Expressing solidarity with the Indian armed forces, Congress said it is the time for unity and that it stands firmly with the armed forces. Party president Mallikarjun Kharge applauded the resolute resolve and courage of the Indian armed forces.

India has an unflinching National Policy against all forms of terrorism emanating from Pakistan and PoK.



We are extremely proud of our Indian Armed Forces who have stuck terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. We applaud their resolute resolve and courage.



Since the day of the  Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) May 7, 2025

Party general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said India's commitment to eliminating all sources of terrorism in Pakistan and PoK has necessarily to be uncompromising and used the hashtag Operation Sindoor in the post on X.

From Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde to Congress leader Randeep Surjewala and LJP (Ram Vilas) leader and Union Minister Chirag Paswan, politicians from across party lines rallied around to laud 'Operation Sindoor', on their social media handles.

AIMIM supremo Asaduddin Owaisi said Pakistan must be taught a tough lesson so that another Pahalgam never happens again.
Hours after India initiated military strikes in Pakistan under 'Operation Sindoor', Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy convened a high-level emergency review meeting in Hyderabad. While issuing a set of instructions to the state administration, he also called for unflinching support to the Indian Army.

In the meeting held at the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC), Revanth Reddy urged all political parties to refrain from playing politics at this sensitive time.

CM Revanth Reddy reviewing emergency security protocol at a meeting | X/@revanth_anumula

The Chief Minister also directed that the leaves of all employees associated with emergency departments stand cancelled until further orders. Ministers and senior officials have been told to remain available round the clock and instructed to cancel any scheduled foreign trips.

CM Revanth ordered the police to identify and detain illegal immigrants from Pakistan and Bangladesh. Surveillance will be ramped up in Hyderabad and all district headquarters, with a special focus on sensitive zones and foreign consulates. IT companies across the state have also been asked to tighten internal security protocols.

Command Control Centres in the three commissionerates of Hyderabad have been directed to link all existing CCTV cameras for live monitoring. Hyderabad police have also been asked to initiate dialogue with Peace Committees, and monitor history-sheeters and known criminals.

Revanth cautioned government employees against making any provocative or political statements, especially on social media, warning that it would attract strict action.

ALSO READ | Operation Sindoor: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah applauds Indian Armys strikes in PoK and Pakistan

Officials dealing with cybersecurity have been asked to stay alert against fake news and propaganda. A dedicated cell will now track misinformation capable of spreading panic.

On the health front, blood banks have been told to stockpile blood and emergency medicine. The state has also asked private hospitals to furnish real-time data on bed availability. The Red Cross has been roped in for coordination. Food grains are being stocked as a preparatory measure. It was informed that a 24x7 public toll-free number will soon be operational.

Earlier in the day, at around 8AM, the CM posted on X (Twitter):

As an Indian citizen first, standing strongly with our armed forces. The strikes against terror factories in Pakistan & PoK make us proud. Let us make this a moment for national solidarity and unity, and all of us speak in one voiceJai Hind! #OperationSindoor.

It was also decided at the meeting that a solidarity rally led by the CM himself would be held on Wednesday at 6PM from the Secretariat to Necklace Road in the heart of Hyderabad.
When Prime Minister Narendra Modi picked Operation Sindoor as the term for Indian armed force strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, the message was clear: It was meant to bring justice for the wives of the men who were killed by the terrorists in Pahalgam on April 22.

The terrorists gunned down 26 men while wives of many of the victims helplessly watched them dying. Now the families of victims have reacted to India's successful retaliation against Pakistan.

Pragati Jagdale, whose husband Santosh was killed in Pahalgam, said 'Operation Sindoor' was a fitting tribute to the victims. "Our sindoor was wiped out by terrorists but today I am very happy that under Operation Sindoor, our armed forces destroyed terrorists' bases in Pakistan," he told PTI.

#WATCH | Anantnag, J&K: Syed Adil Hussain Shah, a local, died in the Pahalgam terror attack while trying to save the tourists



On #OperationSindoor, his father Hyder Shah says, " We are delighted that killing of those 26 Pahalgam victims including my son, has been avenged. I pic.twitter.com/vYOkpgiI39  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

The couple's daughter Asavari Jagdale said expressed her gratitude and pride that the armed forces gave a befitting reply through airstrikes.

Kaustubh Ganbote was another Pune resident who was killed in the April 22 Pahalgam attack. His widowed wife Sangita Ganbote said she is extremely happy that India retaliated for the Pahalgam attack wherein she and other women lost their "sindoor". "We were all waiting to see when India would avenge the terrorist attack," she told PTI.

Sanjay Dwivedi, the father of Pahalgam victim Shubham Dwivedi saluted the Indian army and the PM for listening to the pain of Indians. Talking to ANI, he said, "I am continuously watching the news. My entire family has been feeling light since we heard this news".

Another relative of Shubham, Manoj Dwivedi, said the victims finally got justice and thanked PM Modi for the "real tribute" that that the victims got from the Army. "When our child lost his life, we said that a revolution is going to come in our country. We were sure that PM Modi would take the strictest steps to finish terrorism," he told ANI.
Indian political parties presented a united front in support of the security forces following 'Operation Sindoor', launched in response to the brutal killing of 26 civilians in Pahalgam on April 22. Unlike the aftermath of the Balakot strike when some had called for proof of army action, this time, the political voices are aimed at boosting the national and armed forces morale.

The government too had kept most of the political parties in the loop. It convened an all-party meeting to apprise political leaders of the cross-border operation. The opposition parties, while endorsing the military action, have urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to personally attend the briefing so that a common ground be maintained in matters of national security.

ALSO READ | Operation Sindoor: NSA Ajit Doval declares India ready to retaliate resolutely if Pakistan escalates tensions

PM Modi lauded the armed forces for their action. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described the operation as historic, emphasising that no civilian areas were targeted. He hailed the armed forces for acting with precision, precaution and compassion, a narrative aimed at balancing military resolve with ethical restraint.

While the security situation along the border remains potentially volatile, the military's decisive response has offered a measure of reassurance to a nation grappling with the shock and the grieving families of the deceased.

Even the naming of the army action as Operation Sindoorladen with cultural and emotional symbolismhad been carefully chosen by PM Modi to evoke both retribution and resolve. If the Pahalgam attack was a message to Modi, the operation was the answer, as 'Operation Sindoor' demonstrated.

Adding to the symbolic messaging, two women officersColonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singhwere tasked with briefing the media. This gesture was interpreted as a message of inclusivity, strength, and strategic communication, aimed not only at domestic audiences, but also at Pakistan-backed non-state actors who may have wanted to foment communal trouble through the targeted killing in Pahalgam, Kashmir.

ALSO READ | WATCH: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauds 'Operation Sindoor', highlights the danger of Pakistani terror camps

The Pahalgam attack provoked national outrage, with mounting public calls for retaliation. Prime Minister Modi, during a rally in Bihar, had vowed a firm response against Pakistan. Now, having fulfilled his assurance by targeting nine terrorist-linked sites across the border may further boost Modis image ahead of his first year of his third term in office.

As praise and nationalistic messages dominated social media along with rumours and motivated content, the political class also gave a message of unity. The political consensus has mirrored the public sentiment.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Rahul Gandhi unequivocally praised the armed forces, affirming their full support. Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal declared that all 140 crore Indians stand behind the Indian Army, framing the response as a collective national stance against terrorism. AIMIMs Asaduddin Owaisi, often a vocal critic of the BJP, also took to social media platform X with a stark message: Pakistan Murdabad.

While the operational success of 'Operation Sindoor' is apparent, its broader implications and the potential for escalation will take time to fully unfold. For now, the operation has succeeded in delivering a strong message of deterrence.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday briefed the Union cabinet about Operation Sindoor, a tri-service strike carried out in retaliation of the Pahalgam terror attack.

Modi told the cabinet that the armed forces executed the operation executed exactly as planned, with no mistakes whatsoever".

Calling it "a moment of pride for all of us", PM Modi explained how the "perfect strike by the armed forces" targeted Pakistan terror camps, including four in Punjab province and five in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Modi will also chair a meeting of the Cabinet Committee of Security (CCS) to assess the situation. It might also see a resolution being passed on Operation Sindoor.

The targeted sites include Jaish-e-Mohammad base in Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba base in Muridke. Other targets included Kotli and Muzaffarabad where the LeT and JeM have been training terror operatives.

Operation Sindoor saw the Centre giving full operational freedom to the armed forces to decide on the targets, manner and timing.

Responding to the success of the operation, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, "Bharat Mata ki Jai" while the Indian Army posted, "Justice is served".

Pakistan Army spokesperson Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said his country will respond to India's airstrikes at a time and place of its own choosing. However, Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said Pakistan is "ready to refrain" from further escalation if India stops further attacks. 'If India stops, so will we,' he said.
Senior officers will fan out to the 108 aspirational development blocks in the state to inspect the changes on ground, as per instructions issued by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

An "aspirational block" is one which lags behind in development and is targeted for improvement through the Aspirational Blocks Programme. There are 500 such blocks in India.

In a review meeting today in Lucknow, it was revealed that progress on 24 indicators in 108 aspirational development blocks is more than the state average.

Six districts of Uttar Pradesh are included in the first 10 aspirational districts of the country. In the field of health and nutrition: Balrampur, Siddharthnagar, Chandauli, Sonbhadra, Shravasti and Fatehpur are among the top-10 districts of the country.

Similarly, in the field of education: Balrampur, Sonbhadra, Shravasti, Siddharthnagar and Chitrakoot have also made it to the top 10 at the national level. Siddharthnagar is at the fifth place in the financial inclusion and skill development category.

Aurai (Sant Ravidas Nagar) development block has secured first place in the overall delta ranking in the period from March 2023 to March 2024. Richha (Bareilly) topped in the health and nutrition category, Chahaniya (Chandauli) in education, Salarpur (Badaun) in agriculture and allied services, Khesarha (Siddharthanagar) in basic infrastructure and Shukulbazar (Amethi) in social development category.

The CM has directed that eight different officers of the Principal Secretary/Secretary level will undertake three day tours to eight aspirational districts each. 108 officers of the Special Secretary level will visit 108 aspirational districts. These officers will make field inspections of the actual changes in different areas from the beginning of programs till now and prepare a detailed report. The list of Principal Secretary/Secretary and Special Secretary for the tour will be prepared by the Chief Minister's Office.

The CM said that it was the clear goal of his government that no district, block or person should be deprived of the benefits of development.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday showered praise on 'Operation Sindoor', conducted jointly between the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force. The crucially-timed operation saw precision strikes wipe out 70 terrorists across nine camps in Pakistan and PoK in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

Addressing the Border Roads Organisation's Raising Day ceremony at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, Rajnath Singh reminded the public that the original plan had been to hit only terrorist bases in Pakistan, and not civilians or the military, Singh explained that the entire operation had gone according to plan.

He also added that the decision to leave Pakistani civilians and the military alone were a sign of India's sensitivity.

                  pic.twitter.com/enHzYZg50f  Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) May 7, 2025

The army has shown a unique precision, precaution and compassion, for which I thank our soldiers and officers on behalf of the whole country, he said on his official X handle.

Making a reference to Hindu mythology about the auspiciousness of India's calculated restraint in the strikes, he congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts to support the army.

ALSO READ | Hours after Operation Sindoor, Indian security personnel neutralise 22 Naxalites with Operation Sankalp in Chhattisgarh

Singh also highlighted that the attacked camps recruited and trained people to rise to the call of terrorism, as a result of which India's retaliatory strikes were well within its right to respond to the attack on its soil. He added that the aim was to break the morale of those terrorist elements.

A statement from the PMO in Pakistan, however, dubbed the operation unprovoked, cowardly and an unlawful act of war", and claimed that India's actions constituted acts of war under international laws. It also declared that the country would respond to 'Operation Sindoor' at a time, manner and place of their choosing.
Aircraft fly in formation over Red Square during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, in Moscow, Russia, May 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

Aircraft fly in formation over Red Square during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, in Moscow, Russia, May 5, 2025. (Photo by Alexander Zemlianichenko Jr/Xinhua)

Aircraft fly in formation over Red Square during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, in Moscow, Russia, May 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

Aircraft fly in formation over Red Square during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, in Moscow, Russia, May 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

Aircraft fly in formation over Red Square during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, in Moscow, Russia, May 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

Aircraft fly in formation over Red Square during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, in Moscow, Russia, May 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

Aircraft fly in formation over Red Square during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, in Moscow, Russia, May 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

Aircraft fly in formation over Red Square during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, in Moscow, Russia, May 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

Aircraft fly in formation over Red Square during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, in Moscow, Russia, May 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)

Aircraft fly in formation over Red Square during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, in Moscow, Russia, May 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

Aircraft fly in formation over Red Square during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, in Moscow, Russia, May 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

The Guard of Honor of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) participate in a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, in Moscow, Russia, May 3, 2025. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)

Aircraft fly in formation over Red Square during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, in Moscow, Russia, May 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)

Aircraft fly in formation over Red Square during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, in Moscow, Russia, May 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

Aircraft fly in formation over Red Square during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, in Moscow, Russia, May 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

Aircraft fly in formation over Red Square during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, in Moscow, Russia, May 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

Editor: Zhang Zhou
A man with a beard and hair down to his shoulderswho is believed to have gone through plastic surgery to remove the scar on his faceis Sajid Mir, project manager of 26/11 terror attacks who is on top of the mind of the Indian security brass when it talks of Pakistans complicity in terrorist acts against India.

As India on Wednesday cited Mirs example during the press briefing after India carried out precision strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), the focus at once was on the global pressure on Islamabad to act against terrorists like Mir who are a thorn for not only Indian security establishment but also the counter-terror agencies in the United States.

The FBI has well-documented evidence of Mir guiding Pakistani attackers from the Pakistani control room during the Mumbai siege.

Mir was put on the FBIs most wanted list, but action back home remained pending as Pakistan ISI continued to fund him and ensure his stay in the country, sources said.

Addressing a press briefing after Operation Sindoor, foreign secretary Vikram Misri said Mirwanted for involvement in 26/11was declared dead but was brought back to life again after international pressure was built on Islamabad. This is the most glaring example of Pakistans support and nurturing of terror elements on its soil, he said.

Sources revealed Mirs connections with the Pakistani deep state made him a commander of terror operatives looking for a global footprint, as his connections with Lashkar-e-Taiba, Al Qaeda commanders like Illyas Kashmiri, and other terror outfits across nations from Nepal, Denmark to Australia made him a potent force.

Sajid Mir has spent a large part of his life undercover, sources said. He is learnt to have set up a restaurant in Bangkok and a textile business in another country as fronts for his terror activities. He used the Lashkar-e-Taiba network of Abdur Rehman Hashim alias Pasha, a member of Ilyas Kashmiri camp and Major Abdul Rahman in Pakistan for terror training before 26/11 while directing LeT operative David Headley to use a cover to recce the targets. It is Tahawwur Rana, the LeT terrorist recently extradited by India, who gave Headley the cover that finally helped Mir to stitch together the 26/11 strike.

In recent years, intelligence agencies spotted his movement around the Muridke camp of Lashkar-e-Taiba, even as New Delhi demanded action against the terror perpetrator and the United States offered a reward for information that could lead to the arrest of Sajid Mir.
Operation Sindoor, which was launched at 1:44am on May 7, was Indias response to the brutal killing of tourists near Pahalgam, in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The name was chosen for its direct link to the events of April 22.

The four terrorists who killed tourists at Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam had targeted only non-Muslim men. Of the 26 people killed, 23 were Hindus and two were Christians. The lone Muslim killed, Syed Adil Hussain Shah, was a ponywallah who stood up to the terrorists.

One of the most poignant images to come out of Pahalgam was that of Lt Vinay Narwal of the Indian Navy and his wife, Himanshi. The couple were honeymooning, after their April 16 wedding. Corporal Tage Hailyang of the Indian Air Force, who was from Ziro in Arunachal Pradesh, too, was holidaying with his wife when he was gunned down.

The name Operation Sindoor was clearly chosen to honour the women widowed in the unprovoked attack. In Hinduism, sindoor or vermilion is the mark of married women. It is worn in the centre of the forehead, close to the hairline. It is also considered to be a symbol of devotion, good fortune and commitment to ones husband. Widowed women traditionally do not wear sindoor.

An ANI byte from Pune showed Kunal Ganbote, son of Pahalgam victim Kaustubh Ganbote, saying, The name of the operation is 'sindoor' and I think it was named this way to respect women like my mother...."

#WATCH | #OperationSindoor | Kaustubh Ganbote lost his life in the #PahalgamTerrorAttack.



In Pune, his son Kunal Ganbote says, "...We all were waiting for such action to be taken, and we have this hope from the Indian government. The name of the operation is "sindoor" and I pic.twitter.com/IwBIXt4JkK  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

The official artwork tweeted by officials, including Union ministers, featured a bowl of sindoor spilled over the words Operation Sindoorall this against a black backdrop. The image was also tweeted by the Indian Armys Additional Directorate General of Public Information with the caption: Justice is served. Jai Hind!.
Israels far-right finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, has called for the complete destruction of the Gaza Strip and the mass expulsion of its Palestinian population to third countries. Speaking at a conference organised by the right-wing Besheva newspaper, Smotrich said Israelis must now embrace the concept of occupation and suggested that Gaza should be depopulated and its territory retained by Israel.

His remarks, widely interpreted as advocating ethnic cleansing, came as the Israeli security cabinet approved an intensified military offensive in Gaza that many fear could lead to large-scale forced displacement.

Smotrich, a key figure in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus fragile far-right coalition, has also pushed for the annexation of the West Bank, which Israel has occupied since 1967. Excluding annexed East Jerusalem, the West Bank is home to around 30 lakh Palestinians and nearly five lakh Israeli settlers, whose presence violates international law.

Smotrich views the West Bank as the biblical heartland of the Jewish people and has previously expressed hope that Gaza, too, will be annexed during the current governments term.

Following the security cabinets authorisation, the Israeli military is preparing for a broadened ground invasion, known as Operation Gideons Chariots. According to Israeli officials, the plan involves the clearing of northern Gazas civilian population and its near-total destruction, following the so-called Rafah model. Under this strategy, used in previous operations, all Hamas infrastructure is to be razed, and the area designated part of a permanent Israeli buffer zone.

The Israel Defense Forces and Shin Bet have finalised tactical plans, with commanders already issued practical orders. However, implementation is pending the arrival of reservists and a short window to allow for a possible hostage deal. This build-up coincides with a scheduled visit by former US President Donald Trump, set to start next week.

IDF Spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin outlined the dual goals of the operation: defeating Hamas and securing the release of hostages. He confirmed the operation would include extensive airstrikes, the clearing of large areas of Gaza, and the transfer of civilians to a so-called sterile humanitarian zone in the south. Hamas, in response, rejected ongoing truce negotiations, labelling Israels actions a hunger war in reference to the ongoing blockade. Nonetheless, a senior Hamas figure indicated the group might consider a long-term ceasefire if strict conditions were met.

As the humanitarian crisis deepens, Israel is reportedly planning to take control of aid distribution within Gaza, using private American security contractors. It could end the two-month total blockade that has severely limited food, fuel, vaccines and medical supplies to Gaza. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has, however, condemned the new Israeli proposal, warning that it goes against the core humanitarian principle of independent aid delivery. Spokesperson Jens Laerke stated that Israels plan is designed to further control and restrict supplies, which is the opposite of what is needed.

In Washington, meanwhile, a group of six Democratic US senatorsChris Van Hollen, Dick Durbin, Jeff Merkley, Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren and Peter Welchhave called on Congresss watchdog to investigate whether Israels restrictions on humanitarian aid violate American law. They specifically referenced the Leahy Laws, which prohibit US assistance to foreign security forces implicated in gross human rights violations, including obstruction of the delivery of humanitarian relief.

Amid growing international criticism, Netanyahu has remained defiant. In a video posted to his X account, he said the military would remain in captured parts of Gaza until Israel's war objectives were achieved. Last night we sat late into the night in the cabinet and decided on an intensified operation in Gaza. This was the recommendation of [IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir]to move, as he put it, toward the defeat of Hamas.
Conservative leader Friedrich Merz succeeded in becoming Germanys next Federal Chancellor on Tuesday, after overturning a stressful first round of voting that saw his government fail to obtain the requisite number of votes in the initial ballot.

Being the first postwar German candidate to lose the initial ballot stage of the elections with only 310 votes, the shock defeat led to a huge impact on the stock market, with the DAX, the index of major German companies, falling by 1.8% at one point, according to an Associated Press report.

Merz's centre-right Christian Democratic Union, having signed a coalition with the centre-left Social Democrats (SPD) back in February, the veteran conservative leader won the second round secret ballot with 325 votesnine more than the requirement for an absolute majority.

I accept my election as Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany with gratitude and respect for the task. I approach my work with courage and confidence. Because we are a strong country  and our country can do more! he said after the difficult victory, in an X post.

Merz takes office at a time when Europe sorely needs stability, as it rushes to offer Ukraine security guarantees in a possible ceasefire agreement with Russia, and to negotiate a pro-European trade accord with the United States following the global impact of the Trump tariffs.

Those tariffs threaten a third year of downturn for Germany, Europe's largest economy, which has already had to grapple with the end of cheap Russian gas since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and growing rivalry from China.

The German coalition deal has mapped out plans to revive growth such as reducing a corporate tax and lowering energy prices, a Reuters report explained.

It also vows strong support for Ukraine and higher military spending.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy referenced this fact in his congratulatory X post for Chancellor Merz, thanking Germany's helping hand that had saved thousands and thousands of Ukrainian lives.

I sincerely congratulate @_FriedrichMerz on his election as Germanys new Federal Chancellor.



Ukraine is deeply grateful for the support of Germany and its people. Your helping hand has saved thousands and thousands of Ukrainian lives.



We sincerely hope that Germany will grow  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) May 6, 2025

We sincerely hope that Germany will grow even stronger and that well see more German leadership in European and transatlantic affairs. This is especially important with the future of Europe at stake  and it will depend on our unity, he urged.

On Wednesday, Merz will make his first appointments to strategic European allies France and Poland.
The US has reacted to Indian strikes inside Pakistan early on Wednesday, stating that people knew something was going to happen. The US President added that he hoped the clashes would end 'very quickly'.

"It's a shame. Just heard about it. I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. They've been fighting for a long time. They've been fighting for many, many decades. I hope it ends very quickly," Trump said.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he was monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely. "I echo @POTUS's comments earlier today that this hopefully ends quickly and will continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution."

#WATCH | #OperationSindoor | US President Trump's first comments on Indian strikes inside Pakistan.



US President Donald Trump says "It's a shame. We just heard about it as we were walking in the doors of the Oval. I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a pic.twitter.com/tOkwAXspcO  ANI (@ANI) May 6, 2025

The UAE, which had earlier mediated between India and Pakistan, too reacted to the news. Urging both India and Pakistan to "exercise restraint, de-escalate tensions, and avoid further escalation that could threaten regional and international peace", the UAE Deputy Prime Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in a statement added: "His Highness reaffirmed that diplomacy and dialogue remain the most effective means of peacefully resolving crises, and achieving the shared aspirations of nations for peace, stability, and prosperity."

UN Secretary General Antonio Gutteres said he was very concerned about the strikes. "The Secretary-General is very concerned about the Indian military operations across the Line of Control and the international

border. He calls for maximum military restraint from both countries. The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan," the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General said.
After Indian air strikes destroyed nine terror targets in Pakistan in retaliation for the Pahalgam strikes, the country's leadership is resorting to fiery rhetoric to keep up their spirits after the huge blowback from the Operation Sindoor.

Major General Ahmed Sharif, the director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), was the first to react to Indian strikes. Acknowledging that the Indian military has launched missiles that struck three separate locations inside Pakistan, the ISPR DG said, "India's temporary happiness will be turned into permanent sorrow."

The Pakistani military also said that Indian aircraft were not allowed to enter Pakistan's airspace. They claim the attacks killed eight civilians and 35 others sustained injuries in Indian strikes.

"The enemy showed cowardice by firing from across the border, but let there be no doubtwe will respond. A befitting reply will be given at the time and place of our choosing," the DG ISPR declared.

Former chief of Jamaat-e-Islami, an Islamic political party in Pakistan, Siraj-ul-Haq, too resorted to verbal attacks after Indian strikes. He said that although the war was initiated by India, it would be brought to an end by Pakistan, he said. The party chief also congratulated the armed forces for what he called "swiftly responding to the Indian strikes."

He added that by launching military strikes against Pakistan, India has set itself on a path to destruction. "Pakistan now has both the authority and the capability to bring this conflictstarted by India, to a decisive end," the Islamic leader said in a video message.

Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) leaders also jumped the bandwagon with messages threatening India. "We are Muslims, we do not run away from death whenever it comes," PoK Interior Minister Colonel Waqar told the media. The cowardly enemy has attacked the civilian population in the dark of night. The enemy will be given a befitting reply." He acknowledged that Muzaffarabad's Kotli area has also been attacked.
Pakistan People's Party (PPP) chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Wednesday launched a scathing attack against India for targeting "innocent" lives on Pakistani soil. Addressing the Parliament, the former Foreign Affairs Minister said that India has turned animalistic" and will have to face the consequences of its actions.

Earlier, Bhutto had courted controversy over his remarks on India's decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty. "The Indus is ours and will remain ours. Either water will flow in this Indus, or their blood will," he had said.

ALSO READ | Before and after video of Jaish-e-Mohammad headquarters demolished in Operation Sindoor goes viral

Speaking at the House after India struck nine camps in Pakistan and POK that were terror hotbeds in the early hours of Wednesday, Bilawal Bhutto said the whole of Pakistan was standing firmly behind Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Pak military.

Here are five statements made by the Pakistani politician in the backdrop of India's "Operation Sindoor'

1. Condemning India's decision to conduct 'Operation Sindoor' in the dark, he said it was "an act of cowardice". The entire world has called out New Delhi's decision to launch an assault against children, he alleged. "If they had the guts, they would have announced war in the day. They would have stood right in front of our soldiers... But they attacked a child in the darkness of night  not just Pakistan but the entire world is condemning it," The Dawn quoted him as saying.

WATCH | Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauds 'Operation Sindoor', highlights the danger of Pakistani terror camps

2. Bilawal Bhutto acknowledged that India was a bigger and wealthier country than Pakistan. However, he claimed that Islamabad would not back off after what happened on Wednesday morning. ... there is a quote that goes as the bigger they are, the harder they fall"," he told the Parliament.

3. In a strongly-worded statement against the neighbouring nation, Bhutto said, India has turned animalistic, they have turned into vampires.

4. Conducting 'Operation Sindoor' on Pak soil was an act of war by India against Pakistan. His country and government will respond without fail, he reportedly told Sky News. "But you attacked us, attacked innocent civilians, children and our land  now you will have to prepare because Pakistans answer is yet to come..."

"According to the United Nations Charter, Pakistan has the right to respond to this attack however it wants," he reportedly said.

ALSO READ | Pakistan claims 75-80 IAF jets took part in 'Operation Sindoor', 3 Rafales that released payloads were destroyed

5. Bilawal Bhutto rubbished the reports that said that Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) chief Masood Azhars kith and kin were among the victims of the missile strikes. This is absolute fiction, and has been rebuffed. It is fake news, and Im correcting your quote that originates from fake news on social media and has been rebuffed by local impartial and authoritative journalists, he was quoted as saying by Pakistani media.
Pakistan is "trying to avoid" a full-fledged war, said Defence Minister Khawaja Asif hours after India carried out a military strike on terror targets in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Punjab province on Wednesday. However, the minister added that Islamabad "is prepared for an all-out war".

India's land, air and naval forces jointly carried out 'Operation Sindoor' in the early hours of Wednesday, hitting nine terror targets in retaliation for the terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 26 people.

"There is a possibility of expansion of this conflict into a full-fledged war, which we are trying to avoid," Khawaja Asif reportedly told CNN's Becky Anderson on Connect the World.

He said that India crossed an international boundary last night and the attack was a "clear-cut violation, and an invitation to expand the conflict and maybe convert it into something much wider and much more dangerous for the region," he said.

ALSO READ | Operation Sindoor: NSA Ajit Doval declares India ready to retaliate resolutely if Pakistan escalates tensions

Pakistan's top security body on Wednesday said the armed forces have been duly authorised to undertake retaliation "at a time, place, and manner of its choosing" to avenge the loss of lives. A hurriedly called National Security Council meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and attended by cabinet ministers, chief ministers, all services chiefs and senior officers, described the strikes as "unprovoked and an unlawful act of war".

"There is absolutely no doubt, because India is increasing the intensity, the stakes of this conflict, Asif said. "So we can't be caught with our guards down."

ALSO READ | Bilawal Bhutto says 'wealthy' India has become 'vampires', Pakistans answer is yet to come | 5 statements

Earlier in the day, Asif was quoted as saying by Bloomberg Television that Pakistan is ready to "wrap up" tensions with India, if New Delhi de-escalates the situation.

"We have been saying all along in the last fortnight that we'll never initiate anything hostile towards India. But if we're attacked, we'll respond. If India backs down, we will definitely wrap up this tension," news agency PRI quoted him as telling the media.

According to Pakistan Army spokesman Lt Gen Ahmad Sharif Chaudhry, at least 26 people were killed and 46 injured in the missile strikes by India.

ALSO READ | Kashmir's international airport expected to be shut till May 10, control transferred to authorities

On Wednesday evening, Pakistan restored air traffic across major routes, while a few routes are to remain closed for another 24 hours. The country had earlier announced a 48-hour closure of its airspace for all air traffic after India carried out a military strike on terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. In a separate notice, it added that certain parts of the air traffic route in the Lahore Flight Region would remain closed at all altitudes for operational reasons until 12:20 pm on May 9.
A Pakistani journalist has come up with a shocking sexist solution to counter India diplomacy in the US and this has sparked outrage on social media. Najam Sethi, who was former PCB chairman, said Pakistani bureaucrats are "timid" and should instead send "aggressive and charming" women to lobby for Islamabad.

Talking to Samma TV, Sethi said Indians have a "big influence" in the US and Pakistan needs to get active. "There is a big Indian lobby there, a lot of Indian Americans are in critical positions in both MNCs and corporations and the Senate," he said.

Only Pakistan could think of such absurd idea on national TV



Pak journalist Najam Sethi: To counter Indian influence in the US, Pakistan should send women to pubs to charm think tanks.



Debauchery seems part of Failed State Pakistan!@ImtiazMadmood pic.twitter.com/3nzENTuIXR  Nighat Abbas (@Nighat_Abbass) May 4, 2025

Admitting that Pakistan is not prepared for a diplomatic onslaught, Sethi said strong and articulate academics and think tankers should be sent instead of bureaucrats who fail to cross red lines. "You need to know the culture, sometimes you need to sit in pubs, sometimes you need to take a walk in the park. Sometimes you need to mix a little humour and sarcasm. This is diplomacy, person to person. Charm is very important," he added, hinting that women should be used to gain influence in the US.

Sharing the video, one X user said, "Only Pakistan could think of such absurd idea on national TV."

Najam Sethi, who serves as the Chairman of the Pakistan Super League, was formerly the caretaker chief minister of Punjab province. In 1999, Sethi was arrested for cooperating with the BBC television show Correspondent, which was preparing a report on corruption in the then government headed by Nawaz Sharif.

Sethi's comments comes as Pakistan failed to woo UN Security Council members to release a press statement or resolution. Islamabad was isolated in 15-member council as several UN members grilled its Permanent Representative to the UN, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, over the country's role in the Pahalgam attack. Pakistan was also questioned over its missile tests and nuclear threats.

A total of 26 people were killed in the Pahalgam terror attack carried out by The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. In retaliation, the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 morning, targeting terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
At around 6:30am IST, aircraft tracking site FlightRadar24 shared an interesting image of a lone aircraft in Pakistani airspace. It was surprising as all commercial aircraft were clearing the space.

Qatar Airways, for example, issued an advisory saying that it had temporarily suspended flights to Pakistan due to Pakistani airspace closure. The airline is closely monitoring the situation and will continue to prioritise the safety of its passengers and crew.

The flight above Pakistan was ET672, an Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner originating from the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa, bound for Seoul, South Korea. When FlightRadar24 posted its position, it was southeast of Quetta. It would go on to pass over Peshawar and skirt Islamabad before turning east to pass above Skardu, Ladakh, and enter Chinese airspace.

Our most tracked flight right now: the lone flight traversing Pakistan. Based on NOTAMs, Pakistan has not closed its airspace, but there continue to be multiple airways unavailable to traffic. https://t.co/mQoh5wnOer pic.twitter.com/BJxwQkQl5B  Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) May 7, 2025

A user who goes by the handle @ashu_sea asked chatbot Grok about how this flight path was possible when the airspace was closed. Grok replied: Ethiopian Airlines is flying over Pakistan as the airspace is partially open, with specific airways restricted from 4:00 AM to 8:00 AM PKT daily until May 31, 2025.

Another user commented that the western routes were open for aircraft.

The situation was interesting because earlier this week India had issued a notice to airmen (NOTAM) saying that the Indian Air Force is set to conduct a two-day exercise on May 7 and 8 over Rajasthan and other areas close to the international border with Pakistan. The NOTAM issued by the Airports Authority of India highlighted the window from 3:30pm on May 7 to 9:30pm on May 8.

The comment section of FlightRadar24s post on X lit up with interesting comments ranging from Thats insane to The Captain must have balls the size of GEnx to Hes lost! There was a collective digital sigh of relief when it finally entered Chinese airspace in the countrys Hotan province and then had an uneventful journey to its destination.

As this article is being written, the only flight above Pakistan is an Etihad Airways Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner bound from Abu Dhabi, UAE, to Seoul, South Korea.

If you would like to watch the airspace, heres where to do it:

https://www.flightradar24.com/ETD826/3a38cfb7
White doves are released at the end of the commemoration activities marking the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 3, 2015. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)

History is a mirror, and only by drawing lessons from history can the world avoid repeating past calamities.

BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Eighty years ago, the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War marked a turning point in human history, opening a new chapter in building a better international order and pursuing lasting peace.

Today, the world has undergone dramatic transformations. Technology has connected distant corners of the globe, and globalization has brought nations closer than ever before. Yet, alongside these advances, new and complex challenges have emerged. Global uncertainty is rising, marked by power politics, unilateralism and division in ever-evolving forms.

As the world reflects on the lessons of history, humanity must confront some urgent questions: How can we safeguard the hard-won peace? How can we collectively address pressing global challenges? And most importantly, how can we forge a shared future for all?

As noted by Chinese President Xi Jinping at the general debate of the 70th session of the United Nations General Assembly back in 2015, history is a mirror, and only by drawing lessons from history can the world avoid repeating past calamities.

"We should view history with awe and human conscience. The past cannot be changed, but the future can be shaped. Bearing history in mind is not to perpetuate hatred. Rather, it is for mankind not to forget its lesson. Remembering history does not mean being obsessed with the past. Rather, in doing so, we aim to create a better future and pass the torch of peace from generation to generation," Xi said then.

VICTORY OF THE JUST

On the night of May 8, 1945, Germany signed the surrender document in Karlshorst, Berlin, marking the end of World War II (WWII) in Europe. Meanwhile in Asia, China's final major campaign against Japan -- the Battle of Western Hunan -- reached its decisive phase.

Japan's surrender aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay on Sept. 2, 1945, concluded WWII, humanity's deadliest conflict. More than 80 countries and regions, involving roughly 2 billion people, were drawn into the war, with the total casualties at over 100 million and economic losses exceeding 4 trillion U.S. dollars. Against fascist aggression, more than 50 countries, including China and the Soviet Union, formed a united front.

A ceremony presenting flower baskets to fallen heroes to mark Martyrs' Day is held at Tian'anmen Square in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 30, 2024. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

The world will never forget that as the main theater in the East of the World Anti-Fascist War, China made a national sacrifice of over 35 million casualties in its fight against the majority troops of Japanese militarism. During 14 years of fierce anti-fascist fighting, China engaged and tied down over two-thirds of the Japanese Army, inflicting 70 percent of Japan's wartime military casualties. These efforts significantly contributed to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War.

People from different countries stood with China in the common struggle. China will always remember the international support it received. For example, the U.S. "Flying Tigers" opened up the Hump Route for transporting emergency supplies; foreign doctors such as Norman Bethune from Canada and Dwarkanath Kotnis from India risked their lives to save others; German businessman John Rabe helped protect civilians during the Nanjing Massacre in 1937.

Equally significant was the Soviet Union's sacrifice and contribution on the European theater of World War II. From the Battle of Moscow to the Battle of Stalingrad and the Battle of Kursk, the Soviet people bore tremendous hardship and played a decisive role in defeating Nazi troops.

China's guards of honor take part in the rehearsal of the Victory Day parade in Moscow, Russia, April 29, 2015. (Xinhua/Pavel Bednyakov)

During the global anti-fascist war, China and the Soviet Union supported each other. Soviet air force volunteers fought alongside Chinese soldiers, during which over 200 of them lost their lives in China. Many Chinese, including Mao Anying, late Chinese leader Mao Zedong's eldest son, engaged in fighting against Nazi troops during the toughest time of the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War. This shared sacrifice forged a deep bond between the two sides.

The victory of the anti-fascist war shattered attempts of the fascists and militarists to dominate the world, ended the colonial divisions of the world by imperial powers, and laid the foundation for a new vision of global peace and cooperation.

REBIRTH OF THE WORLD

This year also marks the 80th founding anniversary of the United Nations. The opening words of the UN Charter -- "We the peoples of the United Nations determined to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, which twice in our lifetime has brought untold sorrow to mankind" -- stand as a powerful testament to the hard-won lessons of two catastrophic world wars.

More than just a historical reflection, these words convey humanity's ardent desire for lasting peace.

Born from the ashes of World War II, the United Nations represents humanity's efforts to move away from a world governed by the law of the jungle and a world order of Western-dominated hierarchies.

From the Westphalian and Vienna systems to the Versailles-Washington system, the old order divided the world into dominant powers, and nations they colonized and oppressed.

In a historic shift, the UN Charter enshrines the principle of sovereign equality, affirming for the first time in international law that all nations, irrespective of size, strength or wealth, are equal. That became the cornerstone for the postwar international order.

File Photo taken on June 26, 1945 shows Dong Biwu (front), representative of the Communist Party of China, signing the Charter of the United Nations, San Francisco, U.S. (Xinhua)

Anchored in the UN Charter, principles such as sovereign equality, non-interference in other's internal affairs, peaceful settlement of disputes and prohibition of the use or threat of force have evolved into bedrock norms of international relations. The UN system's creation has established not merely institutional platforms for cooperation, but transformed the very architecture of global governance.

Under the guidance of the spirit of the UN Charter, national liberation movements swept across the globe. Many countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America cast off the shackles of colonialism and gained national independence and sovereignty.

International law thus began to genuinely safeguard the rights and interests of developing countries. A more open and inclusive international community has replaced the West-centric paradigm of an exclusive "civilized nations club," a solid and far-reaching step toward lasting peace for humanity.

China has actively participated in founding the United Nations and shaping the postwar international order. On June 26, 1945, China was the first country to sign the UN Charter. Before that, the Chinese delegation strongly defended the interests of small- and medium-sized countries, and insisted that "independence" be enshrined in the UN Charter as the goal of the International Trusteeship System despite pressure from the West. Such efforts exemplified China's unwavering commitment to defending international fairness and justice.

The postwar international order has consolidated the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, established the fundamental norms of modern international relations, curtailed military expansionism, and advanced global peace and development.

Since its inception 80 years ago, the United Nations has grown into the most universal, representative and authoritative intergovernmental organization in the world, carrying humanity's shared aspirations for a better future.

CALL OF THE ERA

Over the past 80 years, the absence of global-scale wars has allowed the world to enjoy sustained peace. Emerging economies, including China, have risen collectively, while economic globalization has deepened, turning the world into an interconnected "global village" through expanding cross-border exchanges and cooperation.

At the same time, a new wave of technological and industrial transformation is reshaping economies, societies and international relations. The benefits of this largely peaceful era have created a level of global prosperity unprecedented in human history.

However, beneath the surface of peace flow some turbulent undercurrents. Unilateralism and protectionism are on the rise, with some politicians in the West obsessed with dividing the world along ideological lines, forming exclusive blocs and fueling a "new Cold War" mentality.

Even more, the United States openly disregards international norms, engages in economic coercion, imposes punitive tariffs and elevates domestic law above international law.

Such hegemonic behavior undermines the UN-centered international system, challenges the international order underpinned by international law, and threatens the very foundation of global peace and development.

A China-Europe freight train bound for Moscow of Russia waits for departure at a logistics center in Beijing, capital of China, April 16, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhang Chenlin)

As UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned, "Everywhere we look, peace is under attack."

The world is once again at a crossroads. Should the world uphold multilateralism and seek common ground, or allow unilateralism to grow unchecked? Should the world support more democratic international relations, or accept that power politics rules everything? Should the world follow international law and basic diplomatic norms, or return to a world where the strong dominate the weak?

History offers the clearest lessons. Firstly, peace must be defended. The terror of Nazi tyranny and the atrocities in Nanjing Massacre showed that war destroys civilization, while peace allows it to grow.

Secondly, unity is essential for the survival of human civilization. When fascism and militarism were tearing the world apart, the signing of the Declaration by United Nations by 26 nations in 1942 showed that ideological divisions can be overcome, and shared human values can bind nations together.

Thirdly, the tide of history cannot be reversed or resisted. The fall of colonialism, the end of the Cold War and the rise of developing countries all show that the logic of "might makes right" does not last. A multipolar world is the way forward.

Fourthly, rules are not tools for the powerful to abuse. Instead, they are the foundation of fairness and justice. The principles in the UN Charter, including sovereign equality and bans on aggression, remind humanity that without rules, the world risks sliding into chaos.

As a victor in World War II as well as a founder and defender of the post-war order, China has consistently stood on the right side of history and on the side of civilization and human progress.

From advancing high-quality Belt and Road cooperation to launching the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, and from promoting a community with a shared future for mankind to offering ideas and solutions for global and regional challenges, China supports true multilateralism through concrete actions. It is working to make global governance fairer and more balanced, while contributing stability and positive momentum to world peace and development.

The majority of the world has come to recognize China as a pivotal force in safeguarding world peace and stability. As noted by UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher, initiatives China proposed around peace and security, global development and cultural cooperation closely align with the UN's core mission of peacemaking, humanitarian efforts and global security.

The concept of "a community with a shared future for mankind" is another key idea that highlights global solidarity and "the world coming together, not pulling apart," Fletcher told Xinhua, adding that such a concept has created "partnerships that we really need if we're to meet the challenges ahead of us, including climate change."

As partners who fought side by side in World War II, China and Russia continue to work together today to uphold global strategic stability. They coordinate closely within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS, jointly opposing hegemonism and power politics, and promoting a more multipolar world and economic globalization through true multilateralism.

Meanwhile, emerging markets and developing countries are rising as a collective force. The awakened Global South is gaining strength, confidence and a greater voice in global governance. The forces for peace and development have never been more robust.

French writer Victor Hugo once observed: "Memories are our strength. When night attempts to return, we must light up the great dates, as we would light torches." The significance of marking the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War lies in illuminating the path ahead, and reaffirming humanity's unwavering commitment to enduring peace.

At this new crossroads in history, what humanity needs is not the drumbeat of a new Cold War, but the call for cooperation; not claims of civilizational superiority, but a spirit of shared prosperity; not a return to the law of the jungle, but a renewed commitment to a shared future.

Only by following this path can the world prevent the tragedies of history from repeating themselves and turn the vision of lasting peace and sustainable development into reality.

Editor: Zhang Zhou
The U.S. Justice Department is doubling down on its attempt to break up Google by asking it to give up the underlying technology powering the companys digital ad network. The proposed remedy joins a separate federal effort to separate the Chrome browser from its dominant search engine.

The governments latest proposal was filed late Monday in a Virginia federal court two-and-half weeks after a federal judge ruled that parts of its lucrative digital ad network have been improperly abusing its market power to stifle competition to the detriment of online publishers.

In a 17-page filing, Justice Department lawyers argued that U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema should punish Google by ordering the company to offload its AdX business and DFP ad platform, tools that bring together advertisers, who want to market their products, and publishers, who want to sell commercial space on their sites, to bring in revenue.

Not surprisingly, its an idea that Google vehemently plans to oppose when the penalty phase of the antitrust case known as remedy hearings  begins in late September. Google already has vowed to appeal Brinkemas ruling that the technology powering the ad network has been breaking the law, but cant do that until the judge rules on its punishment in a decision expected late this year or early next year.

Google said in its own filing Monday that divestiture of AdX and DFP wouldnt be technically feasible because neither piece of technology is capable of working outside of Googles proprietary infrastructure. The company proposed its own remedies to restore competition, and reiterated its intent to appeal the ruling.

Divestiture is not as simple as selling either the AdX or DFP source code to a willing buyer, Google wrote.

The attempt to tear down Googles ad network comes on top of the Justice Departments ongoing effort to have the company part with its popular Chrome browser and impose other restrictions to curtail the power of its ubiquitous search engine, which another federal judge branded an illegal monopoly in a ruling last August.

The remedy hearings in the search case are scheduled to conclude later this month, with a ruling from U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta expected by Labor Day.

If the Justice Department is able to persuade the two different judges to order its proposed dismantling of Google, it would be the biggest breakup of a U.S. company since AT&T was forced to spin off its phone service into seven separate regional companies more than 40 years ago.

Googles Play Store for apps running on its Android software that powers most of the worlds smartphones also was declared an illegal monopoly by a federal jury in 2023 and is battling a judges order that would require it to overhaul a commission system that generates billions of dollars in annual revenue.

But hobbling its search engine and digital ad network would be far bigger blows because they are the key cogs in a business that generated $265 billion in revenue last year.

Google is confronting the breakup threats at the same time the advent of artificial intelligence is changing the way consumers are using technology and seeking information online  a shift that could also siphon traffic and money away from a powerhouse that began in a Silicon Valley garage in 1998.

Despite the adversity, Google is still delivering robust financial growth to its corporate parent Alphabet Inc., which is currently valued at $2 trillion.

(AP)
Dr. Vinay Prasad, a prominent critic of the pharmaceutical industry and the Food and Drug Administration, has been named to oversee the agencys program for vaccines and biotech drugs.

FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary announced the appointment Tuesday in a message to agency staff, praising Prasads long and distinguished history in medicine.

Prasad is the latest in a series of medical contrarians and critics of COVID-19 measures to join the federal government under President Donald Trump.

Unlike political roles such as FDA commissioner, the job Prasad is stepping into has traditionally been held by an FDA career scientist. His appointment raises new questions about whether vaccines and other new therapies will face unnecessary scrutiny from regulators.

Prasad replaces Dr. Peter Marks, FDAs longtime vaccine chief who resigned in March after clashing with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over concerns about the safety of vaccinations.

In a social media post, Prasad likened Marks to a bobblehead doll that just stamps approval.

Last year, he told former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy that Americans would probably be better off without the FDA in its current form.

If youre talking about FDA 2024, I think theyd probably be better off as a result of not having the FDA Prasad said during an appearance on Ramaswamys podcast.

A professor at the University of California San Francisco, Prasads medical training is in cancer and blood disorders. He first came to prominence among academics more than a decade ago for a series of papers scrutinizing the evidence behind new cancer therapies.

Research by Prasad and his colleagues showed that many cancer drugs fast-tracked by the FDA have never been shown to improve or extend patient lives. Instead, the drugs are often approved based on alternate measures, such as the ability to shrink tumors, which are thought to predict long-term survival in patients.

The FDA has long defended this practice as a way of accelerating approval of medicines for gravely ill patients.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Prasad reached a much broader audience as a critic of vaccine and mask mandates, lockdowns and moves to speed the availability of booster shots from Pfizer and Moderna. Many of his views mirror those of other Trump appointees, including Makary and National Institutes of Health Director Jay Bhattacharya.

In 2022, Prasad and Makary were co-authors on a paper attacking the recommendation for booster shots in teens and young adults, particularly boys and young men. Those patients received particular attention because early vaccinations showed a higher rate of myocarditis, a rare form of heart inflammation that is usually mild.

The paper concluded that requiring booster shots in young people would cause more injury than benefit. None of the authors specialized in studying infectious diseases or vaccine reactions, prompting pushback from many health experts.

Angela Rasmussen, a virus expert at the University of Saskatchewan in Canada, said Tuesdays announcement bodes extremely poorly for vaccine approvals in the U.S.

This decision will invariably result in decreased vaccine access for the public, less transparency, and fewer approvals, Rasmussen wrote in an email.

In recent years, Prasad become a regular on podcasts associated with Kennedys Make America Healthy Again movement, which often portrays the FDA as beholden to the pharmaceutical industry.

Prasads appointment is likely to rattle drug and vaccine makers, who depend on the predictability of FDA standards and procedures to guide drug development plans that can span years or even decades.

(AP)
A Utah man who declared himself the reincarnation of Adolf Hitler and threatened to carry out a massacre at a Manhattan synagogue has been indicted on terror charges, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg announced Tuesday.

Luis Ramirez, 23, was arrested on February 14 after allegedly posting a series of disturbing threats on X, including a chilling message aimed at Central Synagogue in Midtown: The Jews killed me in my past life. If you try to kill me again today in NYC when I pull up to Shabbat, I will kill you first.

Just hours after the posts, law enforcement intercepted Ramirez as he drove toward the Lincoln Tunnel in New Jersey, apparently en route to the synagogue.

He has now been formally charged with making a terroristic threat as a hate crime, making a terroristic threat, and aggravated threat of mass harm. The top charge carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of three-and-a-half years if he is convicted.

Nobody should have to fear for their safety when they are in a house of worship, Bragg said in a statement. The language allegedly used by this defendant is extremely disturbing. My office will remain vigilant against any and all threats to the Jewish community.

The threatening posts were flagged by the Community Security Initiative, a Jewish security group that alerted law enforcement and helped facilitate the arrest before Ramirez could carry out any attack.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
New federal statistics show a steep decrease in the number of times the FBI searched a vast foreign intelligence repository for information about Americans and others in the United States last year.

The number of U.S. person queries plunged from 57,094 in 2023 to 5,518 in 2024, according to the report published Monday by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.

The report details the use of a surveillance program, known as Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, that allows the U.S. government to collect without a warrant the communications of targeted foreigners located in other countries  including when they are in contact with Americans or other people inside the U.S.

National security officials have said the program is vital to protecting the country, but civil liberties advocates have condemned it as a violation of Americans privacy.

The report concludes that the decrease is due in large part to the adoption of tighter rules governing the program, including a requirement that the FBI enter a justification for a database query about an American before conducting it.

The numbers have dropped consistently in recent years. In 2022, the FBI racked up nearly 120,000 U.S. person queries.

Former President Joe Biden signed legislation reauthorizing the surveillance law last year after debates over civil liberty protections nearly forced the statute to lapse.

A key source of concern  uniting an unusual alliance of far-right Republican supporters of President Donald Trump with Democratic champions of civil liberties  is that FBI analysts have repeatedly run improper or unjustified database queries about people in the U.S.

The surveillance tool was first authorized in 2008.

The latest figures are included in an annual report, mandated by law, that provides statistical data about a broad array of the U.S. governments surveillance powers.

The FBI had no immediate comment on the report.

(AP)
An F/A-18 fighter jet landing on the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier in the Red Sea went overboard, forcing its two pilots to eject, a defense official told The Associated Press on Wednesday.

The incident Tuesday marks the latest mishap to mar the deployment of the Truman, which has been essential in the airstrike campaign by the United States against Yemens Houthi rebels.

On Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump and Omans foreign minister both said that a ceasefire had been reached with the Houthis, who would no longer target ships in the Red Sea corridor  something not immediately acknowledged by the rebels.

Meanwhile, the Houthis continue to assess the damage after daytime Israeli airstrikes targeted Yemens rebel-held capital of Sanaa.

Landing goes wrong on carrier

The F/A-18 Super Hornet landed on the Truman after a flight, but the arrestment failed, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they werent authorized to speak publicly about the incident now under investigation.

Arrestment refers to the hook system used by aircraft landing on carriers, which catches steel wire ropes on the flight deck. It remains unclear what part of the system failed.

The two pilots on board were later rescued by a helicopter and suffered minor injuries in the incident, the official added. No one on the flight deck was hurt.

CNN first reported on the incident.

Tuesdays incident was the latest to see the Navy lose an F/A-18, which cost about $60 million. In April, another F/A-18 fighter jet slipped off the hangar deck of the Truman and fell into the Red Sea. The crew members who were in the pilot seat of the Super Hornet and on the small towing tractor both jumped away.

In December, the guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg mistakenly shot down an F/A-18 after ships earlier shot down multiple Houthi drones and an anti-ship cruise missile launched by the rebels. Both aviators in that incident also survived.

And in February, the Truman collided with a merchant vessel near Port Said, Egypt.

The Truman, based out of Norfolk, Virginia, has seen its deployment extended multiple times amid the Houthi airstrike campaign. It had been joined recently by the USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier operating out of the Arabian Sea.

Rebels survey Sanaas devastated airport

The Israeli attack on Tuesday that targeted Sanaa International Airport devastated the airfield. Khaled al-Shaif, the head of the airport, told the Houthis al-Masirah satellite news channel that the Israeli strike destroyed the airports terminal and left craters in its runway.

At least six passenger planes were struck, including three belonging to Yemenia Airways, the countrys flag-carrying airline, he said. That leaves the airline with only one functional aircraft, which was spared only because it had left earlier in the day on a flight to Amman, Jordan. He put overall damage there at $500 million.

With the damage, the airport was now out of service, al-Shaif said.

Houthi attacks on shipping

The Houthis had been waging persistent missile and drone attacks against commercial and military ships in the region in what the groups leadership has described as an effort to end Israels offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

From November 2023 until January 2025, the Houthis targeted more than 100 merchant vessels with missiles and drones, sinking two of them and killing four sailors. That has greatly reduced the flow of trade through the Red Sea corridor, which typically sees $1 trillion of goods move through it annually.

The Houthis paused attacks in a self-imposed ceasefire until the U.S. launched a broad assault against the rebels in mid-March.

(AP)
Syrias interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa arrived in Paris on Wednesday for talks with President Emmanuel Macron. Its his first trip to Europe since taking office in January, and a possible opening to broader ties with Western countries.

It also comes amid renewed sectarian bloodshed in Syria, where al-Sharaa took power after his Islamist group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), led an offensive that toppled former President Bashar Assad in December. Assad, a member of Syrias Alawite minority, ruled for more than two decades.

Al-Sharaa is scheduled to meet with Macron early evening, according to Syrian state media.

He will discuss post-war reconstruction and economic cooperation, mainly in aviation and electricity, as well as ongoing Israeli airstrikes and Syrias relations with Lebanon, Syrias state news agency reported.

The presidential Elysee Palace said Macron will restate Frances support for a free, stable, sovereign Syria that respects all components of its society, while emphasizing the importance of regional stability, particularly in Lebanon, and the fight against terrorism.

The visit comes a week after clashes between forces loyal to al-Sharaa and fighters from the minority Druze sect that left nearly 100 people dead. This followed earlier violence in Syrias coastal region between Sunni gunmen and members of the minority Alawite sect, which left more than 1,000 people dead, many of them Alawite civilians killed in revenge attacks.

Religious minorities in Syria, including Alawites, Christians and Druze, fear persecution under the predominantly Sunni Muslim-led government. Al-Sharaa has repeatedly pledged that all Syrians will be treated equally regardless of religion or ethnicity.

The 14-year conflict has killed nearly half a million people and displaced millions. Syrias infrastructure lies in ruins, and international sanctions remain a major barrier to reconstruction.

The visit to Paris is being closely watched as a potential test of Europes willingness to engage with Syrias new leadership.

The European Union has begun easing sanctions, suspending measures targeting Syrias oil, gas and electricity sectors, as well as transport, including aviation, and banking restrictions.

In late April, the British government announced it was lifting sanctions on a dozen Syrian entities, including government departments and state-run media outlets.

The Trump administration has yet to formally recognize the new Syrian government led by al-Sharaa, and HTS remains a U.S.-designated terrorist organization. Sanctions imposed on Damascus under Assad remain in place. However, Washington eased some restrictions in January when the U.S. Treasury issued a general license, valid for six months, authorizing certain transactions with the Syrian government, including some energy sales and incidental transfers.

(AP)
Russias President Vladimir Putin is set to host the leaders of China, Brazil and other heads of states for festivities on Friday marking the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.

Victory Day, which is celebrated in Russia on May 9, has become the countrys most important secular holiday. A massive parade through Red Square and other ceremonies underline Moscows efforts to project its power and cement the alliances it has forged while seeking a counterbalance to the West amid the 3-year-old war in Ukraine.

For Putin, this day is important as a demonstration how broad a coalition backing Russia is, said political analyst Nikolai Petrov.

The lineup of leaders coming to Moscow this year contrasts sharply to some past celebrations that drew top Western leaders at a time of friendlier ties between Russia and the West.

The festivities have been overshadowed by reports of Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Moscow and severe disruptions at all four of the capitals airports, with dozens of flights delayed or canceled, stranding hundreds of passengers.

Tightened security around the celebrations also led to restrictions on cellphone internet service and reports of outages. Banks and taxi firms have preemptively warned customers about disruption to services over the holidays due to unstable internet access, and some shops and supermarkets have restricted deliveries due to potential network problems.

The guest list reflects Moscows priorities

Putin described Chinese President Xi Jinping as our main guest at the Victory Day festivities when he discussed preparations for his visit with Chinas foreign minister. The Russian leader noted that he and Xi are to discuss both bilateral and global issues at their summit in Moscow.

Xi is coming for a four-day visit, and Putins foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov said they would discuss trade and Russias supply of oil and gas to China, as well as cooperation within BRICS  the bloc of developing economies that initially included Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa but has since expanded to more countries.

Putin and Xi have met over 40 times and developed strong personal ties to bolster their strategic partnership as they both face soaring tensions with the West.

China has offered robust diplomatic support to Moscow after the 2022 invasion and has emerged as a top market for Russian oil and gas, helping fill the Kremlins war coffers. Russia also has relied on China as the main source of machinery and electronics to keep its military machine running after Western sanctions curtailed high-tech supplies.

While Beijing hasnt provided weapons to use in Ukraine, it has backed the Kremlin diplomatically, blaming the West for threatening Russias security. China also has strongly condemned Western sanctions against Moscow.

Russia, in turn, has consistently voiced support for Beijing on issues related to Taiwan.

Last month, Ukraine reported capturing two Chinese soldiers who were fighting for Russia and claimed there were more than 150 others deployed alongside Moscows forces. Beijing disavowed any official involvement, saying it also told its citizens not to get involved in foreign conflicts. Reports suggested the men were mercenaries who had answered online ads.

Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi, another top ally whom Putin has courted, had been expected in Moscow but he canceled his trip amid tensions with Pakistan after an attack in which gunmen opened fire on tourists in Indian-controlled Kashmir.

India, which has had persistent tensions with China, watched the strengthening of Russia-China relations with unease but sought to maintain close ties with Moscow. Russia is a major defense supplier for India since the Cold War, and New Delhis importance as a key trading partner for Moscow has grown since the Kremlin sent troops into Ukraine. Just like China, India has become a key buyer of Russian oil following Western sanctions.

Brazils President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva also will be in Moscow for Victory Day, his first official trip to Moscow since the invasion of Ukraine. He twice visited Russia during his previous tenure as president in 2003-10.

Other signs of global support for the Kremlin

Other guests include Slovakias populist Prime Minister Robert Fico, who has openly challenged the European Unions policies over Ukraine. Fico has shrugged off warnings from the EUs top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, against visiting Moscow, defiantly saying, nobody can order me where to go or not to go.

Serbias President Aleksandar Vucic also has accepted an invitation, his first trip to Russia since the invasion. He said he wouldnt cancel the trip despite EU pressure that visiting Moscow could derail Serbias ambitions to join the bloc. But he fell ill during a trip to the U.S. last week, raising questions about his travel to Russia. The Kremlin on Tuesday announced plans for Putin to have bilateral meetings with him and Fico on Friday.

Petrov said attendance by European countries despite EU pressure demonstrates that the Kremlin isnt just in any sort of isolation but has quite powerful support not only in the Global South but also in the West.

The leaders of Cuba, Vietnam, Venezuela and Burkina-Faso, plus presidents of several former Soviet nations, also are expected.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the guest list at the festivities reflects the importance of the holiday. It shows that Russia not only has allies, but a large number of countries that feel close to the spirit of our ideology and world vision, he said.

Ushakov said Tuesday that leaders of more than two dozen countries are expected to attend the parade, and Putin will hold more than 15 bilateral meetings. The Kremlin also invited U.S. Ambassador Lynne Tracy, although whether she will be present at the parade, we will see on May 9, Ushakov said. The State Department didnt confirm whether any U.S. officials would attend.

Past celebrations featured top Western leaders

When Russias ties with the West blossomed after the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union, many Western leaders attended Victory Day celebrations. In 1995, U.S. President Bill Clinton, British Prime Minister John Major and Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chretien were among the guests.

U.S. President George W. Bush attended the 2005 Victory Day parade along with the leaders of France, Germany and other heads of states, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel was on Red Square for the 2010 parade.

Ties with the West were badly strained after Russias illegal annexation of Ukraines Crimean Peninsula in 2014 and the start of the conflict in eastern Ukraine, where Moscow backed a separatist insurgency. Western leaders stopped coming to the event.

U.S. President Donald Trump, who this year upended Washingtons policy of isolating Russia over the war, hasnt ruled out visiting Moscow someday, but will not be attending on Friday.

(AP)
India has launched missiles into Pakistani territory in retaliation for a gun massacre on tourists in April. Pakistans leader condemned the strikes and vowed his country would deliver a robust response.

The missile launch, and Pakistans promise to hit back, have stoked fears of a war between the nuclear-armed neighbors. But the early morning strikes show that India can hurt Pakistan without entering its airspace or deploying nuclear weapons.

A look at what might lie ahead for the two rivals:

Both have nuclear weapons, but as a deterrent

India and Pakistan have built up nuclear arsenals over the years. But their purpose is to stop wars, not start them.

India has a no first use policy. That means it will only retaliate with nuclear weapons if there is a nuclear attack on Indian forces or Indian territories.

Pakistans policy is to use tactical nuclear weapons to counter nuclear threats and conventional military attacks from its bigger, stronger and richer regional rival. Pakistan has not ruled out using nuclear weapons first if it feels an existential threat. But it can ill afford to initiate such a war with India because of its neighbors superior firepower. Pakistan has lost three conventional wars in the past.

South Asia analyst Michael Kugelman said the Wednesday morning strikes were some of the highest-intensity from India on its rival in years and that Pakistans response would surely pack a punch as well.

These are two strong militaries that, even with nuclear weapons as a deterrent, are not afraid to deploy sizeable levels of conventional military force against each other, Kugelman said. The escalation risks are real. And they could well increase, and quickly.

Neither has details about the others arsenal

Neither country knows what nuclear weapons the other has or how many. India conducted its first nuclear test in 1974. Pakistan carried out its first in 1988.

Think tanks suggest Pakistan has 170 warheads while India has 172. Some analyses indicate Pakistan could have more, around 200. Pakistan holds its nuclear arsenal to deter India from invasion or massive attack.

In the current situation, it is up to Pakistan to decide how it fights back without provoking India further and without starting something it cannot win. So far, it claims to have shot down several Indian jets in retaliation.

Despite decades of hostility and suspicion, India and Pakistan are signatories to a pact that bars them from attacking each others nuclear facilities. As part of the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear Installations and Facilities, the two sides exchange lists of their nuclear facilities and installations each January. They have exchanged lists for 34 consecutive years.

However, neither country is a signatory to the global Non-Proliferation Treaty aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons technology.

Both prefer limited strikes on specific targets

Flare-ups between India and Pakistan have seen precision attacks and reprisals, escalating slowly while giving each side the option to defuse. Border skirmishes are common.

India has been under huge domestic pressure to respond this time because the victims in last months gun massacre were civilians. It said its armed forces targeted sites used by militants linked to the attack on tourists.

In 2019, after a suicide car bombing, there was a predawn airstrike from India that it said targeted a terrorist training camp in Pakistan.

Pakistan later claimed to have shot down two Indian warplanes in Kashmir and captured a pilot. The pilot was eventually released and the situation began to normalize. But the episode showed India was willing to enter Pakistani airspace and launch strikes, setting a new threshold for retaliation.

Skirmishes and strikes have so far been contained to border areas including the Line of Control, the de facto frontier dividing Kashmir.

The tactic carries the risk of miscalculation because any casualties, especially civilian ones, could aggravate domestic sentiment on either side.

The international community wants restraint

With wars escalating in the Middle East, the international community does not want conflict in South Asia.

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio has repeated his calls for India and Pakistan to calm things down, while United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has expressed his concern about Indian military operations. He has called for maximum restraint.

Both India and Pakistan have moved swiftly to highlight their diplomatic engagement in the region, issuing statements pointing to their alliances and position on the world stage.

President Donald Trump, who previously said the U.S. would not get involved in mediation, said he wanted things to end quickly.

I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. Theyve been fighting for a long time. Theyve been fighting for many, many decades. I just hope it ends very quickly.

(AP)
Iran was behind US President Donald Trumps surprise announcement on Tuesday that the US military is halting its military operations against the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen after the terror group indicated it will end its attacks against US ships.

According to two Iranian officials quoted by The New York Times, Iran pressured the Houthis to halt their attacks as part of the Islamic Republics current efforts to reach a nuclear deal with the US.

Following Trumps announcement, Oman, which is mediating the US-Iranian talks, said that it mediated the ceasefire deal between the Houthis and the US.

The Houthis attacks on Israel were not addressed in the deal, and the terror group said that it will continue its attacks on Israeli ships.

The agreement does not include Israel in any way, shape or form, Mohammed Abdulsalam, the chief Houthi negotiator, told Reuters.

As long as they announced the cessation (of U.S. strikes) and they are actually committed to that, our position was self-defense so we will stop.

A Houthi spokesperson told Al Jazeera that the terror group will continue targeting Israeli ships until humanitarian aid enters Gaza. We will evaluate any future US support for Israel and will determine our position accordingly.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
Fu Cong (R, front), China's permanent representative to the United Nations, speaks at a side event of the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building at the UN headquarters in New York, May 6, 2025. China will support the central role of the United Nations in promoting global artificial intelligence (AI) governance, a Chinese envoy said on Tuesday. AI, as a strategic technology leading the new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation, is profoundly reshaping people's work and life, said Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, at a side event of the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building. (Xinhua/Xie E)

UNITED NATIONS, May 6 (Xinhua) -- China will support the central role of the United Nations in promoting global artificial intelligence (AI) governance, a Chinese envoy said on Tuesday.

AI, as a strategic technology leading the new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation, is profoundly reshaping people's work and life, said Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, at a side event of the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building.

Fu said that in October 2023, China put forward the Global AI Governance Initiative, offering China's approach to global AI governance -- AI governance should be discussed by all, promoted by all, and the benefits of AI shared by all.

"Capacity-building has long been a cornerstone of global AI governance," said Fu.

He recalled that in July 2024, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) adopted by consensus the resolution tabled by China together with the core group on AI capacity-building. After that, China launched the AI Capacity-Building Action Plan for Good and for All, and initiated, together with Zambia, the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building. These efforts are aimed at fostering broad partnerships, and taking concrete steps to implement the UNGA resolution and the Global Digital Compact, so as to make sure that the benefits of digital transformation are enjoyed by all, and that no country and no one is left behind.

"When it comes to AI capacity-building cooperation, China not only leads with initiatives, but also with actions," he said.

Fu noted that since the adoption of the UNGA resolution, China have convened two productive seminars in Beijing and Shanghai, bringing together over 180 participants from more than 40 countries. The seminars have provided valuable platforms to share best practices and discuss the way forward for global AI governance.

In addition, last month, China and Zambia sent questionnaires on behalf of the Group of Friends to the broader UN membership and international organizations, to solicit their views and expectations for the Group, he said, adding that based on the feedback, China will hold regular Group of Friends activities to facilitate policy exchanges, knowledge sharing, and practical cooperation.

The ambassador reaffirmed China's commitment to promoting AI for good and for all. "We will continue to uphold fairness and inclusiveness, respect and protect the rights of developing countries to develop and utilize AI on an equal footing, champion collaborative governance, and support the central role of the UN in promoting global AI governance," he stressed.

"I am confident that with our concerted efforts, we will be able to contribute to a more inclusive development of AI that is beneficial to all," Fu said. 

A side event of the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building is held at the UN headquarters in New York, May 6, 2025.

China will support the central role of the United Nations in promoting global artificial intelligence (AI) governance, a Chinese envoy said on Tuesday.

AI, as a strategic technology leading the new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation, is profoundly reshaping people's work and life, said Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, at a side event of the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building. (Xinhua/Xie E)

Editor: Zhang Zhou
One of the Iranians arrested in the UK over the weekend for an alleged plot to carry out an imminent major terror attack on a Jewish target has close ties to the Iranian regime, The Telegraph revealed on Tuesday.

According to the report, the suspects family owns prominent businesses in Iran and maintains close ties with government officials.

An Iranian source in the UK described him as very well connected.

The police said that the investigation is in its initial stages and that the focus of the probe is the possibility of the Iranian regimes direct involvement in the plot to carry out a terror attack on British soil.

According to reports in British media outlets on Monday, the suspects were arrested only hours before they planned to carry out a major attack on a Jewish site.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
The Houthi-controlled Sanaa International Airport in Yemen has suspended all flights until further notice, its director announced, after suffering extensive damage from Israels attack on Tuesday.

According to reports, Israels attack destroyed the passenger hall, terminals, a warehouse, and six aircraft, including three belonging to Yemens national airline, which is now left with only one plane, which is currently in Oman.

The director of the airport, Khaled al-Shayef, told Al-Arabiya that as a result of the Israeli aggression on Sanaa International Airport and the resulting extensive damage, it was decided to suspend all flights to and from the airport until further notice.

He noted that the damage to the airport in Sanaa as a result of the Israeli attack with two types of missiles is estimated at over $500 million.

The Israeli attack destroyed three aircraft and it will take a long time to rehabilitate and resume the airports operations, he said. The enemy caused heavy losses after attacking with two types of missiles. The enemy destroyed the terminals, along with all the equipment and devices in them. The warehouse was completely destroyed.

A senior Houthi official, Hazam al-Assad, known for issuing threats against Israel in Hebrew, clarified that the launches towards Israel will continue.

Does the Zionist entity have enough shelters? he wrote on social media. And will those shelters really protect the settlers from the approaching firestorm? There will be difficult questions and surprises, he threatened.

US President Donald Trumps surprise announcement on Tuesday that the US military has halted its operation against the Houthis means that Israel will now be the only actor responding to the terror groups attacks.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
A recently published Pentagon report revealed that the Biden administrations failed project to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza via a floating pier was a deeper failure than previously acknowledged.

Apart from wasting $320 million in funds and failing in its mission to provide aid to Gaza, one soldier was killed in an operational accident during the mission, and 61 soldiers were injured.

The pier was in place for three months but was operational for only 20 days, during which one days worth of humanitarian needs were offloaded. [It should also be noted that at the time, Gaza was not suffering from a lack of food.]

The Inspector General said that the US military was not prepared with the proper equipment for the mission. Nor did they organize, train, and equip their forces to meet common joint standards, the report said.

A separate report from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) revealed that Biden administration officials ignored multiple warnings of the operations pitfalls, including insufficient preparation and training and a disregard for local environmental conditions.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
The IDF on Wednesday eliminated a senior Hamas commander in the Sidon area of Lebanon via a drone strike.

The IDF carried out airstrikes in the Sideon area and eliminated the terrorist Khalid Ahmed Al-Ahmed, who served as the operations commander of Hamas western brigade and advanced terror attacks against Israel, the IDF spokesperson said.

During the course of the war, Ahmed oversaw numerous terror plots against Israel, IDF soldiers, and Israeli civilians. In recent weeks, he has been involved in smuggling weapons and planning additional attacks against Israel.

His activities posed a danger to Israel and its citizens. The IDF will continue to act against Hamas terrorists in every location where they operate.

Hamas later issued a statement confirming Ahmed was martyred.

On Tuesday, the IDF carried out airstrikes in southern Lebanon and eliminated a senior Hezbollah commander who was acting to rehabilitate the terror groups capabilities.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
Police arrested about 30 pro-Hamas rioters who illegally occupied a University of Washington engineering building and damaged property and set fires.

Students from the group Super UW, which lauded the October 7 massacre, seized the Interdisciplinary Engineering Building in Seattle on Monday evening.

We are taking this building amidst the current and renewed wave of the student Intifada, following the uprising of student action for Palestine after the heroic victory of Al-Aqsa Flood on October 7th, which shattered the illusion of zionist-imperialist domination and brought Palestine to the forefront for all justice-loving people of the world, Super UW wrote in a manifesto published earlier in the day.

The students yelled Death to the police as they were arrested and led away from the building.

Your browser does not support the video tag.

A university spokesperson, Victor Balta, said that Super UW created a dangerous environment in and around the building.

The University will not be intimidated by this sort of offensive and destructive behavior and will continue to oppose antisemitism in all its forms. The 30 individuals were arrested and charges of trespassing, property destruction and disorderly conduct, and conspiracy to commit all three, will be referred to the King County Prosecutors Office.

Super UW demanded in its manifesto that the university cut all ties with Boeing.

The University of Washington is a direct partner in the genocide of the Palestinian people through its allegiance to its partnership with Boeing, the manifesto claimed, demanding that the university stop receiving any and all donations from Boeing. Return any existing donations, financial investments, and eliminate all other material ties to Boeing.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
Two IDF soldiers were moderately to seriously injured in a shooting attack at a checkpoint near Jenin in the northern Shomron on Wednesday evening.

Emergency medical teams administered emergency medical aid to the victims and evacuated them by helicopter to Rambam Hospital in Haifa.

The terrorist opened fire from their vehicle at the soldiers and then sped off. A large number of IDF and Shin Bet forces were deployed to the scene and launched a manhunt for the terrorist.

Minutes later, there were reports that a ramming attack occurred near Beit Chagai in Har Chevron.

An initial investigation showed that a terrorist tried to ram into IDF soldiers. He then emerged from the car and tried to stab them, injuring one soldier. Other soldiers opened fire, neutralizing the terrorist.

The injured soldier was evacuated to Shaare Tzedek Hospital in Jerusalem in moderate condition.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
Tourists enjoy a dance performance in Qinhuangdao, north China's Hebei Province, May 3, 2025. During the five-day May Day holiday, Chinese travelers took an estimated 314 million domestic trips, marking a 6.4 percent increase from the previous year, according to figures released by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Tourist spending also saw a notable rise, reaching 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars), an 8 percent year-on-year jump that highlights the sustained vitality of consumer activity. (Photo by Cao Jianxiong/Xinhua)

BEIJING, May 6 (Xinhua) -- During the five-day May Day holiday, Chinese travelers took an estimated 314 million domestic trips, marking a 6.4 percent increase from the previous year.

Tourist spending also saw a notable rise, reaching 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars), an 8 percent year-on-year jump, highlighting consumer activity's sustained vitality.

The May Day holiday, running from May 1 to 5, is typically one of the year's busiest travel periods. During this time, millions of Chinese travelers hit the road to visit family, explore domestic destinations, or venture abroad. This surge in travel provides a boost to the transportation, tourism and retail sectors.

Highways were jammed, train tickets sold out within minutes, and major tourist destinations overflowed with visitors, reflecting a strong resurgence in consumer enthusiasm in the world's second-largest economy.

As the night fell, the energy remained high. In Guangxi, local governments hosted nighttime carnivals, dazzling light shows, and open-air concerts to revitalize the nightlife scene and encourage people to stay out longer and spend more.

Nationally recognized nighttime cultural and tourism zones registered nearly 76 million visits during the holiday, up 5.2 percent from a year ago, according to figures released by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

This push to diversify the holiday experience wasn't limited to nighttime attractions. Across the country, local governments and tourism operators embraced technology to enhance convenience and comfort for the millions of travelers on the move.

In the city of Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, an AI-powered peak-avoidance system helped visitors plan their routes more efficiently by analyzing real-time traffic and crowd data across the city's major attractions.

In Sichuan's Qingcheng Mountain scenic area, visitors encountered robotic exoskeletons designed to make trekking easier, along with drone delivery services that transported snacks and supplies to the mountains.

The surge in travel extended beyond China's borders as well. According to official data, China saw nearly 10.9 million inbound and outbound trips by Chinese and foreign nationals during the five-day break, an average of 2.18 million per day, up 28.7 percent from the same period last year.

The steady rebound in inbound tourism was fueled by growing interest from countries including Myanmar, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Australia and the United Kingdom.

China's visa-free policies also played a role. A total of 380,000 foreigners entered China under such arrangements during the holiday, a year-on-year increase of 72.7 percent.

To welcome more international travelers, China has expanded visa-free policies to allow longer stays and wider travel within the country with simplified visa procedures, and introduced new conveniences such as instant tax refunds for departing visitors.

The country has unilaterally extended visa-free entry to citizens of 38 countries and has also lengthened its visa-free transit policy for nationals of 54 countries to 240 hours. 

An aerial drone photo shows tourists visiting a historical and cultural block in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, May 1, 2025.

During the five-day May Day holiday, Chinese travelers took an estimated 314 million domestic trips, marking a 6.4 percent increase from the previous year, according to figures released by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Tourist spending also saw a notable rise, reaching 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars), an 8 percent year-on-year jump that highlights the sustained vitality of consumer activity. (Photo by Zhang Shu/Xinhua)

Children wearing traditional Chinese costumes enjoy leisure time in an ancient town in Xuchang, central China's Henan Province, May 1, 2025.

During the five-day May Day holiday, Chinese travelers took an estimated 314 million domestic trips, marking a 6.4 percent increase from the previous year, according to figures released by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Tourist spending also saw a notable rise, reaching 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars), an 8 percent year-on-year jump that highlights the sustained vitality of consumer activity. (Photo by Niu Shupei/Xinhua)

Tourists visit Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring scenic spot in Dunhuang, northwest China's Gansu Province, May 4, 2025.

During the five-day May Day holiday, Chinese travelers took an estimated 314 million domestic trips, marking a 6.4 percent increase from the previous year, according to figures released by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Tourist spending also saw a notable rise, reaching 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars), an 8 percent year-on-year jump that highlights the sustained vitality of consumer activity. (Photo by Zhang Xiaoliang/Xinhua)

Tourists watch a fire-spitting performance along Gongshui River in Xuan'en County, central China's Hubei Province, May 4, 2025.

During the five-day May Day holiday, Chinese travelers took an estimated 314 million domestic trips, marking a 6.4 percent increase from the previous year, according to figures released by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Tourist spending also saw a notable rise, reaching 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars), an 8 percent year-on-year jump that highlights the sustained vitality of consumer activity. (Photo by Song Wen/Xinhua)

Tourists enjoy a dolphin performance in Qinhuangdao, north China's Hebei Province, May 3, 2025. During the five-day May Day holiday, Chinese travelers took an estimated 314 million domestic trips, marking a 6.4 percent increase from the previous year, according to figures released by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Tourist spending also saw a notable rise, reaching 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars), an 8 percent year-on-year jump that highlights the sustained vitality of consumer activity. (Photo by Cao Jianxiong/Xinhua)

An aerial drone photo taken on May 3, 2025 shows tourists visiting Shaoxing known for being the hometown of Lu Xun, east China's Zhejiang Province.

During the five-day May Day holiday, Chinese travelers took an estimated 314 million domestic trips, marking a 6.4 percent increase from the previous year, according to figures released by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Tourist spending also saw a notable rise, reaching 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars), an 8 percent year-on-year jump that highlights the sustained vitality of consumer activity. (Photo by Zhang Hui/Xinhua)

Tourists visit the Danxia National Geological Park in Zhangye, northwest China's Gansu Province, May 4, 2025. During the five-day May Day holiday, Chinese travelers took an estimated 314 million domestic trips, marking a 6.4 percent increase from the previous year, according to figures released by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Tourist spending also saw a notable rise, reaching 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars), an 8 percent year-on-year jump that highlights the sustained vitality of consumer activity. (Photo by Cheng Lin/Xinhua)

An aerial drone photo shows tourists visiting Zhongshan Road in Quanzhou, southeast China's Fujian Province, May 3, 2025. During the five-day May Day holiday, Chinese travelers took an estimated 314 million domestic trips, marking a 6.4 percent increase from the previous year, according to figures released by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Tourist spending also saw a notable rise, reaching 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars), an 8 percent year-on-year jump that highlights the sustained vitality of consumer activity. (Photo by Zhang Jiuqiang/Xinhua)

An aerial drone photo taken on May 4, 2025 shows the Huangguoshu Scenic Area in Anshun City, southwest China's Guizhou Province, May 4, 2025. During the five-day May Day holiday, Chinese travelers took an estimated 314 million domestic trips, marking a 6.4 percent increase from the previous year, according to figures released by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Tourist spending also saw a notable rise, reaching 180.3 billion yuan (roughly 25 billion U.S. dollars), an 8 percent year-on-year jump that highlights the sustained vitality of consumer activity. (Photo by Chen Xi/Xinhua)

Editor: Zhang Zhou
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) will cover up to 50% of Ukrsibbank's (Kyiv) credit risk when providing new loans of EUR 30 million to Ukrainian businesses and households.

"Focus on critical industries and energy investments, with EU support for competitiveness upgrades," the EBRD said in the press release on website.

The bank said this is the second application of a similar risk-sharing mechanism in its work with Ukrsibbank.

It is noted that up to 20% of the total sub-loans will be directed to finance long-term capital investments of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises to modernize their technologies and equipment in accordance with EU standards under the EU4Business-EBRD credit line. Eligible sub-borrowers will receive EU-funded technical assistance and grant support funded by the EBRD Crisis Response Special Fund (CRSF).

In addition, up to 10% of the total sub-loans will be allocated to residential sub-borrowers (households and housing associations) for investments in energy generation and storage and energy efficiency under the EBRD Energy Security Support Facility (ESSF). At least 70% of the sub-loans will support projects that meet the requirements of the Green Economy Transition (GET).

Residential sub-borrowers will receive technical assistance in structuring and implementing their energy investments. Grant support for eligible sub-borrowers will cover 20% of their investment costs and is funded by Canada through the High Impact Climate Action Partnership.

Sub-borrowers whose assets have been destroyed, lost or displaced due to war, or those involved in the reintegration of veterans into the workforce, will receive additional investment incentives.

The EBRD facility will be supported by first-loss risk coverage funded by France and the EU under the Ukraine Investment Facility (UIF).

According to the NBU, as of March 1, 2025, Ukrsibbank was the seventh largest bank in Ukraine in terms of total assets (UAH 169.2 billion), or 4.5% of the market.

The majority shareholder of the bank with 60% is BNP Paribas (France), another 40% belongs to the EBRD.
Consider . . .

CRIME NEAR KANSAS CITY'S LOOP WORSENS AHEAD OF SUMMER!!!

This isn't a good sign as most locals understand we're just about to enter the most "turbulent" part of the year as far as violence & crime is concerned.

Here's another local warning from a slew of local small biz owners . . .



"Business owners throughout downtown say they feel abandoned by city leadership and police and the effects are hitting more than just moraletheyre cutting into revenue."

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .
Recently . . . The biz journal shared some imaginary content behind he paywall that was a bit more imaginative than all of the "stuff" that Bob Fescoe has been dreaming up.

We agree . . . Maybe the Royals might get another year or two out of The K.

But in the long run . . .

IT'S OVER!!! KANSAS CITY ROYALS CAN'T STAY AT KAUFFMAN STADIUM FOREVER!!!

In fact . . .

Sooner rather than the later Royals will leave the K for good and denying this reality is nothing more than tax fighters attempting to tug at the heart strings of home team fans and their fear of change.

The reality . . .

Kansas City continues to evolve and the Royals WILL MOVE even if nobody is sharing the deets with desperate newsies.

At this point . . . The move to Kansas seems more likely.

But, in fact, there are plenty of cities ready & willing to welcome a MLB franchise without KC's desperate & losing struggle to stop the hands of time and enforce the status quo in a cruel world of increasing complexity that erases the past at a quickening pace.

We sympathize . . . The future is absolutely terrifying but stubbornly clinging to the past doesn't make it any less so . . . What's worse is "policy experts" exploiting fear in order to satisfy their billionaire patrons who meddle in public policy for retirement kicks and to publicly expose their impossible hope to defy the inevitable  And yet the only instance of real justice in the cosmos prevails ad infinitum as every single shred of evidence seems to suggest that death equals us all.

In fairness and because hope against hope is cheaper than a movie . . . We share a thoughtful contradiction to our existential snark . . .



"The Royals, who have spent more than three years insisting they will vacate the K after their lease expires in 2030, face a conundrum: they have no new stadium site selected, no clear funding source, and no legislative momentum. Missouri lawmakers are on track to adjourn without approving any stadium funding bills. Kansas, meanwhile, has not yet extended the STAR bonds meant to lure the team across the border."

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Show-Me Blog: Royals May Stay at Kauffman Amid Stadium Inertia





Developing . . .
Just because we will ALWAYS have a special place in our heart for night owls, early birds and shift workers . . . We wanted to play a bit of catch up for the overnight and share some headlines that have been on our mind.



Check TKC news gathering . . .

Cowtown Queue Up Ahead Of Crackdown

Long lines at KC DMVs as the rush to get REAL IDs picks up ahead of deadline Travelers will still be able to fly without a REAL ID for now, but they can expect delays at the airport.

Local Transit Connection

10 Kansas City metro residents hurt in trolley crash near Hermann, Missouri Ten of the 32 people hurt in a trolley crash Saturday near Hermann, Missouri, are from the Kansas City metro.

Hyping Up More KC Lights

Kansas City's 1,024-foot red tower could glow from Midtown once again A plan to re-light the iconic broadcast tower on 31st Street took a big step forward Tuesday.

Luxury Home For Good Deeds

Literacy KC moves into Park 39, former middle school now hub for nonprofits The Westport Middle School building sat empty for years until Hyde Park Development Partners bought it. It was first a co-working space. Now it's Park 39 and a hub for many local nonprofits.

Home Team Takes Gimmie

Royals walk off win as White Sox blow the game in hilarious fashion Oh my, the White Sox are dreadful.

Pop Diva Fashion Statement

Iggy Azalea Flaunts Thick Thighs In 'Lazy Sunday' Underwear Iggy Azalea is dropping jaws in her tight weekend undies as she shows off her life and animals during a "lazy Sunday."

MAGA Winning Culture War

Supreme Court hands down decision in trans military ban suit The Supreme Court weighed in on the Trump administration's transgender military ban after a lower court's decision blocking the ban was appealed to the high court.

Dems Debate Health

Fetterman vows to stay in Senate, dismissing questions over fitness to serve | CNN Politics Sen. John Fetterman is roundly dismissed allegations that he's unfit to serve in the Senate, attacking a recent report detailing claims of erratic behavior as a "hit piece" and vowing to serve out his term.

Vlad Takes Hit As European War Drags On

Ukrainian drones attack Moscow, temporarily halting flights ahead of major military parade | CNN Ukrainian drones attacked Moscow for the second consecutive night temporarily halting flights at four airports, Russian officials said, as the city prepares to host a major military parade expected to be attended by world leaders including China's Xi Jinping.

Holy Land Vs. Houthis

Israeli attacks on Yemen's capital have begun after unprecedented evacuation warning | CNN Israeli strikes on Yemen's capital Sanaa are underway, according to the Houthi-run al-Masirah TV and the Israeli military, including attacks targeting the city's international airport.

Divine Democracy?!?!

Papal Conclave: Voting due to start to elect a new pope The secretive process will get underway at the Vatican to find a new leader of the Catholic Church.

Dead-Tree Credit Where It's Due For This Silly Headline . . .

Meet one of KC's last hot dog vendors, slinging wieners outside a weed shop Jason Vanderlinden runs a hot dog cart outside a Kansas City marijuana dispensary, adapting to a changing city. He's the last of a fading species.

Local Late Night Snack

Betty Rae's and Jasper's Release Cannoli Ice Cream - IN Kansas City Magazine Jasper Mirabile, of Jasper's Restaurant, collaborated with Betty Rae's Ice Cream to create an ice cream flavor reminiscent of his famous cannoli.

Midweek Sprinkles

Kansas City weather: Greatest chance of rain this week on Wednesday Kansas City's midweek weather includes showers and storms Wednesday, with clearing skies by Friday.

Don Toliver - Lose My Mind (feat. Doja Cat) is the song of the day and this is the OPEN THREAD for right now.
That's pretty harsh given that the library now openly welcomes hobos.

Meanwhile . . .

This local missive from conservative Jack Cashill probably didn't come up in your social media feed but it's worth checking out nevertheless . . .



"The Kansas City Public Library actually had a Golden Age. From the years 2005 to 2020, no public library in America did more to enlighten and entertain all of its patrons than did Kansas Citys. Unfortunately, the library fell harder and quicker than the Kabul airport. If the library now has any educational value, it is to remind taxpayers of the dangers of institutional capture . . .



"Benefactors of the Kansas City Public Library have felt the tremors here at home. No longer a cornerstone around which our entire community gathers, the library has turned exclusive, elitist, divisive. Major slices of the community have suddenly found themselves unwelcome."

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Jack Cashill @ Ingram's: Can the KC Public Library Revive Its Golden Age?
Rightfully . . . This noteworthy victory belongs solely to tireless KCMO small biz owners who raised a ruckus against the city hall flex.

And so . . .

TROOST AVE. ACTIVISTS FAIL AGAIN BECAUSE THEY DON'T WANT TO FOLLOW RULES & BUILD CONSENSUS!!!

From our vantage . . .

Nobody is endorsing slavery or married to history . . .

What's important is that name changes FOLLOW THE RULES rather than operating by way of sneaky politicized flexing.

Accordingly . . . Check the Mayor's postscript and more perspectives . . .



After about 30 minutes of discussion on the issue, Mayor Quinton Lucas made a motion to hold the item off docket, essentially tabling the issue and halting any immediate changes to the street's name.



The council confronted this question about a year ago, and in that situation, we actually moved forward," Lucas said after Tuesday's meeting. "The legislation said there needed to be more of a collaborative process, more discussion in terms of what steps are ahead, and importantly, more information to those who would be impacted. The sponsor of the ordinance said that was not a path that she wanted to take. Then as I understand from the discussion today, its not a path she wants to take now. We understand that, and it does not mean that we dont agree with the fact that we need to build better opportunities and better outcomes for everybody on Troost, for everybody east of Troost long-term. And thats something that we will do. Building more housing, more economic development opportunity and beyond.



Councilwoman Robinson responded to the outcome with determination to continue the renaming effort.



This was a day of denial, Robinson said. That doesn't mean we're not going to continue to fight. That doesn't mean we're not going to continue to move it forward.



For now, the street will remain Troost Avenue, but community leaders and local businesses owners remain committed to the streets evolution.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

Latest effort to rename Troost Avenue to Truth Avenue stalls in Kansas City, Missouri The effort to rename Troost Avenue got a hearing Tuesday at a Kansas City, Missouri, City Council committee meeting, but not enough support to push the renaming effort forward.

Push to change Troost's racially-charged name stalls again, leaving vocal advocates disheartened Chris Goode stood at the podium Tuesday in council chambers at City Hall, voicing a frustration with the city's repeated inaction on his proposal to change the name of Troost Avenue - a Kansas City thoroughfare with a legacy rooted in slavery - to Truth Avenue.

Troost Avenue won't change to Truth - maybe ever - as road still divides KC Councilwoman Melissa Robinson holds out possibility that a council majority could work around the committee that put the name change on hold.

Developing . . .
Celebrate Mothers Day with the QE2 Sunday Roast at Queens Grill



(TRAVPR.COM) UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - May 6th, 2025 - This Mothers Day, honour the extraordinary women in your life aboard one of historys most iconic vessels  the Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel. On Sunday, 11 May, the Queens Grill invites you to celebrate the occasion with a Sunday Roast Lunch steeped in tradition, served in a venue that has sailed through decades of elegance and heritage.

More than just a celebration, this is a tribute to mothers  the anchors in our lives, the storytellers of generations, the quiet strength behind every success. There is no place more fitting to honour them than the Queens Grill - a venue rich with maritime legacy, once reserved for royalty and first-class passengers, crossing the oceans aboard the QE2.

Ferghal Purcell, General Manager of the Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel, commented: There is no greater setting than the Queen Elizabeth 2 to celebrate the timeless role of mothers in our lives. The Sunday Roast at Queens Grill is not just about exquisite food; its about tradition, connection, and creating memories. This Mothers Day, we invite families to honour the women who hold us together  with a meal that echoes the grace and grandeur of the past.

Step into a dining room where every detail carries the echoes of a bygone era. Polished wood panelling, vintage finishes, and soft lighting set the tone for an afternoon of warmth, nostalgia, and gratitude. Its a space that tells stories - just like mothers do.

Guests can indulge in succulent roasts paired with popular classic side dishes, lovingly prepared and served from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Priced from just AED 115 per roast, the experience is accessible, heartfelt, and unforgettable.

Whether you are gathering with family, reconnecting with friends, or simply treating yourself to a well-deserved weekend indulgence, this is one Sunday tradition you would not want to miss. The Sunday Roast is available every Sunday, starting at just AED 115 per roast.

The Featured Cuts include:

Roast Wagyu Beef Rib Eye  Charred to perfection and bursting with rich flavour, this tender cut is as bold and unforgettable as the QE2s voyages across oceans.

 Charred to perfection and bursting with rich flavour, this tender cut is as bold and unforgettable as the QE2s voyages across oceans. Rolled Lamb Leg  a crispy crackling that echoes the rumble of the waves, served with a sweet apple sauce.

 a crispy crackling that echoes the rumble of the waves, served with a sweet apple sauce. Classic Roast Chicken  Golden, juicy, and perfectly crisp, just like the QE2s proud hull cutting through the sea.

These mouthwatering mains are accompanied by an array of delectable Sides to Sail With, including roast potatoes, honey-glazed carrots, broccolini & parsnips, cheesy baked cauliflower, Yorkshire pudding, and a rich, velvety gravy  all expertly prepared by the QE2s seasoned chefs.

Sunday Roast Lunch

 Venue: Queens Grill at Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel

 Day & Time: Every Sunday, 12.30pm to 03.30pm

 Price: AED 115 per Roast.

Reservations are now open. Book your table at https://www.qe2.com/offers/qe2-sunday-roast/and give your Sundays the royal treatment.

Phone: +971 4 526 8835, Email: dining.qe2@accor.com

###
State-owned Oschadbank, Ukreximbank, Ukrgasbank and FUIB provided 11 loans under state guarantees to defense industry enterprises in 2024 under the Program to increase the state's defense capability and meet the urgent needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, according to information from the Ministry of Finance.

According to the ministry, Oschadbank became the major creditor, issuing six loans for UAH 9.86 billion and becoming a participant in a consortium loan together with Ukrgasbank and FUIB for UAH 2.38 billion.

In turn, Ukreximbank provided four loans for a total of UAH 8.25 billion.

According to the Finance Ministry, in 2023, only two loans were provided under the State Defense Capability Enhancement Program under state guarantees: Oschadbank for UAH 6.09 billion and Ukreximbank for UAH 5.98 billion.

As Interfax-Ukraine was informed in Oschadbank, since the beginning of the full-scale war, the bank has participated in lending to defense industry enterprises for over UAH 17.1 billion.

"Oschadbank has historically lent to state defense industry enterprises, so we know better than anyone how difficult the process of simplifying access to bank loans was for privately owned defense industry companies and how important it is for the development of the industry," Deputy Chairman of the Oschadbank Board Yuriy Katsion said.
A private tour by SUV to see 10,000 year old icebergs in Newfoundland



(TRAVPR.COM) CANADA - May 6th, 2025 -

10 Victoria Street today launches its Newfoundland Luxury Iceberg Hunt, a fully customizable, land-based adventure that whisks small groups in a private SUV to the most spectacular iceberg vantage points along Iceberg Alley.

An Epic Road Trip Through Iceberg Alley

Guestsup to eight per tourare guided by real-time iceberg GPS data as they journey coastal highways and hidden inlets to encounter these ancient giants on land. Iceberg Alley, the famed corridor of drifting icebergs stretching from Labrador to the Avalon Peninsula, offers shore-accessible viewing spots at towns like Twillingate, Fogo Island and Bay Bullseach reachable by road.

Tailored Season & Unmatched Flexibility

Newfoundlands iceberg season generally runs late May through mid-July, with peak sightings in June. On this tour, departure dates begin mid-May and extend through July 10 (and beyond, if icebergs permit). Each expedition is priced per group and fully tailored to individual interestswhether you wish to linger at a cliffside overlook or pop ashore in a seaside village for lunch.

Culinary Crystal & Luxury Keepsakes

After a day of hunting icebergs, return to the restored 1893 Victorian home at 10 Victoria Street for a grand feast and iceberg-waterinfused cocktails, personally prepared by a private chef. To prolong the experience, each guest departs with an East Coast Glow luxury skincare kit formulated with pristine iceberg-harvested water.

Relaxation Back at Your Victorian Home

Between the thrill of up-close iceberg encounters and crystalline cocktails, guests can unwind in the homes selection of revitalizing spa options before their next days adventure.

We wanted to create the first and true luxury iceberg tour experience here in Newfoundland and Labrador that went above and beyond just seeing icebergs, says Candace Trenton, Owner of 10 Victoria Street.

Availability, Booking & Contact

Season: Mid-May through July 10, 2025 (extending as bergs permit)

Capacity: Up to 8 guests per fully customized SUV tour

Pricing: Custom-priced per group, based on size and bespoke itinerary

Book & Inquire: 10VictoriaStreet.com Website

About 10 Victoria Street

Nestled in the heart of St. Johns, Newfoundland, 10 Victoria Street is a meticulously restored 1893 Victorian home offering curated luxury-stay experiences. From private spa days to this one-of-a-kind iceberg hunt, each package blends authentic local culture with five-star hospitality.

###
Photo: https://eurosolidarity.org/

MP, leader of the European Solidarity party Petro Poroshenko notes that the minerals agreement with the United States is decisive for Ukraine's relations with its strategic partner, but its ratification without familiarizing the MPs with all its components is unacceptable, the political force's website reported on Tuesday.

"I want to emphasize that without the active participation of the United States, it will be almost impossible for us to achieve an end to the war, a ceasefire, and the long-awaited, sustainable peace. Therefore, this is perhaps the most important event of 2025, at least its first half, and therefore we must pay great attention to this agreement. The Ukrainian people have earned the right to know what is in this agreement... We demand a meeting with the Prime Minister, with the negotiating team, so that we are given the opportunity to familiarize ourselves with and verify the substantive part of this agreement," Poroshenko said.

He said that the European Solidarity faction had agreed to meet on Wednesday evening, after a meeting with government officials, and formulate its proposals. "We will come out publicly with our position, and the people will know how our faction will vote and what proposals we will put forward in order to ensure our positive vote. Because the risks are extremely high if the Verkhovna Rada does not ratify this agreement," Poroshenko said.

According to the politician, the document should contain security guarantees, bring us closer to peace, "and secondly, so that we restore the trust and relations between Ukraine and the United States that were destroyed in the Oval Office."

"Ukraine needs a strong position, pressure on Putin in order to end the war. Ukraine needs, in case Putin does not agree to this, the so-called plan B: this is an unlimited number of special weapons, this is long-range weapons, this is anti-aircraft weapons, this is electronic warfare systems, artillery shells, intelligence and everything to increase the power of the Armed Forces. And at the same time, hellish sanctions that will deprive Putin of the opportunity to finance the war. Oil prices and everything else can do this," he believes.

"We emphasize that this agreement, the ratification protocol, must include a reference to the Crimea Declaration, which Pompeo signed at my request on behalf of Trump on behalf of the United States, which states: Crimea is Ukraine. Forever. And the second position is the security guarantees that were signed by President Biden and President Zelenskyy. If they are signed, if they are in effect, then refer to them during ratification," Poroshenko noted.

As reported, draft law No. 0309 on the ratification of the agreement between the governments of Ukraine and the United States of America on the establishment of the American-Ukrainian Reconstruction Investment Fund was registered in the Verkhovna Rada on May 1.
First-of-Its-Kind Surgery Removes Tumor Through Eye Socket

In a first-of-its-kind surgery, a team led by a University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) neurosurgeon has successfully removed a rare cancerous tumor wrapped around the spine and spinal cord of a 19-year-old woman  through her eye socket (orbit).

Although surgeons use a transorbital approach to access tumors in the brain and sinuses, this is the first time it has ever been used to remove a spinal tumor. In this case, the young woman had a slow-growing developmental bone tumor called a chordoma in her spine. Only about 300 chordomas are diagnosed in the United States every year.

Novel Approach Spares Major Nerves, Blood Vessels, Other Structures in Difficult-to-Reach Area

The tumor was wrapped around the patients spine and spinal cord and had invaded the vertebrae in her neck, just below the base of the skull, said Mohamed A.M. Labib, MD, CM, a UMMC neurosurgeon and assistant professor of neurosurgery at the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM). By going through the bottom of the eye socket, we were able to remove a tumor that otherwise would have been very difficult and very risky to address.

Labib said that trying to reach the tumor from the back could have risked damaging the spinal cord. We also avoided disturbing or damaging key structures such as the Eustachian tube, major blood vessels such as the jugular vein and internal carotid artery, and nerves that control swallowing and speech, he said.

He added, We created a huge surgical corridor that enabled us to get in front of the spinal cord. It was a straight shot.

The patient, who has no evidence of cancer, required multiple surgeries and received extraordinarily complex care from a multidisciplinary team of physicians that included neurosurgeons, skull base and facial plastic surgeons, and radiation oncologists.

In addition to the spinal tumor, she also had a very large chordoma that was wrapped around her brain stem, a critical structure that controls many vital functions. In two separate procedures, UMMC surgeons removed part of the tumor by opening her skull in a traditional craniotomy and then took out the rest by accessing the area through her nose. Both the transorbital and endonasal procedures involved the use of an endoscope, a thin, lighted tube with a camera at the end.

Utilizing open and endoscopic surgical techniques that respect the anatomical boundaries that we face  and devising innovative ways to reduce morbidity  is really central to Dr. Labibs 360-degree approach to treating these types of tumors, said Andrea M. Hebert, MD, MPH, a head and neck surgeon and an associate professor of otorhinolaryngology-head and neck surgery at UMSOM who performed the endonasal procedure and took part in the transorbital surgery.

These tumors are definitely life-threatening when they grow to the point where they cause significant brain stem compression, so surgery is the best way to try to save a patients life, Hebert said. Many of these tumors recur, and thats why we favor a multidisciplinary approach to treatment.

The Third Nostril

Labib developed the novel surgical plan to remove the spinal tumor after exploring the transorbital approach in the Department of Neurosurgerys Skull Base 360 Laboratory using cadavers. He called the eye socket the third nostril in preliminary research looking at new ways to access hard-to-reach skull base tumors published in the Journal of Neurosurgery in October 2023.

In addition to the three surgeries last spring, the patient, Karla Flores, now 20, of Rosedale, Md., was treated with proton radiation therapy to destroy any lingering cancer cells. A neurosurgeon also fused the C1 and C2 vertebrae in her neck to stabilize the spine.

Karla is doing very well. I am happy that through a very coordinated multidisciplinary team effort she had such a successful outcome, Labib said, noting that she has some lingering issues with moving her left eye as the result of nerve damage from the tumor abutting the brain stem.

Flores recalled that she started experiencing double vision when she was 18 and tried unsuccessfully for months to learn the cause. For a while, I didnt know what was happening to my health. It felt like no one understood or even believed that there was a physical reason for my symptoms. Then I saw my ophthalmologist who gave me hope because she believed that something was wrong and referred me to Dr. Labib, Flores said.

I was so relieved when I met Dr. Labib and the team at the University of Maryland Medical Center. They listened and took me seriously. Learning about the spinal and brain tumors was terrifying, but I am so grateful that the doctors were able to remove them. Im slowly recovering and with any problem I have, they help me, Flores continued.

Believing in Myself

I keep reminding myself to take one day at a time and know that each step is an accomplishment. Im also glad I stood my ground and kept looking for help until I found it. Things could have gone horribly wrong if I didnt believe in myself, Flores said. She plans to go to school to become a manicurist.

In other transorbital procedures, surgeons have made incisions next to or above the eye. In this case, Labib worked with a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Kalpesh T. Vakharia, MD, who carefully cut through the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane protecting the eye, inside the lower eyelid without disturbing the eye. That process also involved making an incision inside the patients mouth. Vakharia removed the bottom of the eye socket, and a portion of the cheek bone, to carve out a large enough pathway for surgeons to thread surgical tools into the sinus to reach the cervical spine.

We wanted to develop a surgical plan where there would be no external scars and it would be impossible to tell that the patient even had surgery, said Vakharia, chief of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and director of the Facial Nerve Center at UMMC and an associate professor of otorhinolaryngology-head and neck surgery at UMSOM.

Working in tandem with Hebert, Labib was able to drill through bone in the vertebrae to access the tumor and painstakingly dissect it, using a variety of surgical instruments.

After the tumor was removed, Vakharia rebuilt the bottom of the eye socket using a titanium plate and rebuilt the cheek with bone from the patients hip. He said of the experience, It was amazing to have had the opportunity to be part of surgery that had never been done before.

For UMMC President and CEO Bert W. OMalley, MD, surgical innovation is a fundamental tenet of academic medicine and a core driver of the medical centers culture. OMalley is an internationally renowned head and neck cancer surgeon and pioneer of transoral robotic surgery (TORS).

We are fortunate at UMMC to have a remarkable team of highly skilled surgeon-scientists committed to challenging themselves and inspiring those around them to see each unique case as an opportunity to advance the field, OMalley said. "The complexity of this extremely rare and difficult-to-reach tumor required multidisciplinary perspective, careful planning, and precision. The team could have chosen a more standard invasive route, but they charted a novel approach because they wanted the best possible outcome for this young woman, preserving her quality of life. As a surgeon whose career has been shaped by this mindset, I couldnt be more proud of what this team has accomplished.

UMMC is the academic flagship hospital of the University of Maryland Medical System, which has 11 hospitals and more than 150 other care locations throughout Maryland.

Medical experts dont know what causes chordomas, but they arise from remnants of the notochord, which is the precursor of the spine during fetal development. Labib said it was very rare that Flores had two separate chordomas that were not connected.

A Multidisciplinary Team

Labib noted that it took a team of physicians from various specialties working together to provide Flores with comprehensive care. Nobody can do this alone, he said. He also cited the importance of being able to practice these types of complex surgeries on cadavers many, many times before performing them on patients.

The fact that people are willing to donate their bodies to science enabled us to do this and saved the life of this young woman, he said.

Timothy J. Chryssikos, MD, PhD, a neurosurgeon at UMMC who specializes in spine surgery and an assistant professor of neurosurgery at UMSOM, performed the spinal fusion surgery.

Mark V. Mishra, MD, a radiation oncologist at the Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center at UMMC and the Maryland Proton Treatment Center who specializes in treating tumors of the central nervous system, oversaw Flores proton therapy. He is also director of clinical research in the Department of Radiation Oncology and a professor of radiation oncology at UMSOM.
Welcome Guest! You are here: Home

India avenges Pahalgam terror attack; Civilians targeted, says Pakistan

In a late night operation Wednesday May 07, 2025, India launched Operation Sindoor hitting 9 locations in Pakistan in retaliation of the Pahalgam terrorist attack

Wednesday May 7, 2025 2:17 PM , ummid.com News Network

[A damaged building of the Government Health and Educational complex is seen after Indian strikes in Muridke on May 7. (Image Source: AFP)]

Operation Sindoor: In a late night military operation Wednesday May 07, 2025, India launched Operation Sindoor hitting 9 locations in Pakistan in retaliation of the Pahalgam terrorist attack.

The "Operation Sindoor" started at around 01:00 am and continued till 01:30 AM Wednesday, the government sources said.

As many as 26 people  25 tourists and 01 local horseman, were killed in Pahalgam in Kashmir on April 22, 2025.

In retaliation, India fired a barrage of missiles hitting 9 locations inside Pakistan and some 30 kms from the Line of Control (LoC).

In the retaliatory attack named Operation Sindoor, Indian missiles hit 9 targets including Sialkot, Muzaffarabad and Muridke, the Indian Military said in a briefing Wednesday.

Pakistan claims civilian deaths

Pakistan has claimed as many as 26 civilians have been killed and around 45 others were injured in the Indian airstrikes.

The Pakistan Army also claimed it downed 5 Indian fighter jets.

Sharing details of the casualties, Lt Gen Sharif of Pakistan Army said that several mosques and civilian areas came under attack during recent Indian strikes, resulting in heavy civilian casualties.

Pakistan also claimed at least two mosques suffered damages in the Indian airstrikes.

Pakistan also claimed its "destroyed" a number of Indian posts near LoC in retaliatory operations.

No military installations hit

[Colonel Sophia Qureshi, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Indias Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri briefing the media after the Indian airsrtikes in Pakistan]

India has neither confirmed nor denied the damages but said civilians were not targeted and terrorist hideouts and terror training camps were targeted.

India also denied targeting any military installations in Pakistan.

"No military installation was targeted in Pakistan during Operation Sindoor", Colonel Sophia Qureshi, an officer from the Indian Armys Corps of Signals, said.

India conducted the strikes in a restrained manner, ensuring no collateral damage and zero loss of lives of civilians, she added.

"Justice done to Pahalgam terror attack victims"

The Indian Army also said the Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of Pahalgam terror attack and their families .

Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed. Over the last three decades, Pakistan has systematically built terror infrastructure. It is a complex web of recruitment and indoctrination centres, training areas for initial and refresher courses and launchpads for handlers," Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said.

In retaliation of the Pahalgam attack, India had earlier suspended Indus Water Treaty besides announcing a slew of measures against the neighboring country.

World leaders call for restraint

Meanwhile, China, United States and other countries have urged India and Pakistan to maintain maximum restraint.

India and Pakistan are and will always be each others neighbours. Theyre both Chinas neighbours as well, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said urging both the countries to act in the larger interest of regional peace and stability, remain calm, and avoid further complicating the situation.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also spoken with his counterparts from India and Pakistan, encouraging both sides to engage in discussions to settle an escalating military confrontation, the White House said.

"He is encouraging India and Pakistan to re-open a channel between their leadership to defuse the situation and prevent further escalation," said US National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes in a statement, after India carried out air strikes on Pakistani soil, according to AFP.

In a statement released Wednesday Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said the Unined Kingdom is ready to support both India and Pakistan to de-escalate tensions.

Our message would be that we are a friend, [and] a partner to both countries. We stand ready to support both countries. Both have a huge interest in regional stability, in dialogue, in de-escalation and anything we can do to support that, we are here and willing to do, he told BBC radio.

Russias foreign ministry in a statement said it was deeply concerned by the escalation of military confrontation, and called on the parties to exercise restraint to prevent further deterioration. The foreign ministry hoped the tensions could be resolved through peaceful, diplomatic means.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot and Japan Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi also expressed concerns and called for de-escalation.

Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates.

Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic.
Meet Sophia Qureshi - The Colonel Trending After Indian Airstrikes in Pakistan

Colonel Sophia Qureshi - a Muslim, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh  a Hindu, were given the task to address the media to give details of the late night airstrikes in Pakistan codenamed 'Operation Sindoor' was aimed to showcase the united face of the country

Wednesday May 7, 2025 7:54 PM , ummid.com News Network

India on Wednesday May 07, 2025 avenged the April 2025 Pahalgam Terrorist Attack launching a barrage of missiles on as many as 9 targets in Pakistan.

Besides the accuracy and preciseness with which India successfully hit its targets in Pakistan, the choice of Colonel Sophia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh for the post-attack media briefing has generated a lot of interest in India and abroad.

Colonel Sophia Qureshi - a Muslim, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh  a Hindu, were given the task to address the media to give details of the late night airstrikes in Pakistan codenamed Operation Sindoor was aimed to showcase the united face of the country.

As many as 26 people  25 tourists and 01 local horseman, were killed in Pahalgam terrorist attack on April 22, 2025. India accused Pakistan for the attack and also said one of the aims of the attack was to divide India on communal lines.

The choice of Colonel Sophia Qureshi - a Muslim, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh  a Hindu, to jointly address the press after the airstrikes was to counter this.

India's Muslim daughter, Colonel Sophia Qureshi, briefing a press conference on behalf of the Indian Army, about taking revenge for the terrorist attack on Pahalgam from Pakistan, an elated social media user wrote while sharing the video of Qureshi addressing the media at the National Information Centre in New Delhi Wednesday.

Pakistan has denied the Indian allegations, saying it did not have anything to do with the Pahalgam attack.

Who is Colonel Sophia Qureshi?

Colonel Sophia Qureshi is from Vadodara in Gujarat. She has a Postgraduate degree in Biochemistry. Col Sophia comes from a military family, her grandfather served in the Indian Army and her father was an Army religious teacher. She is married to Major Tajuddin Qureshi of the Mechanised Infantry.

An officer of the Armys Signal Corps, 44-yr-old Sophiya Qureshi, was one of the 11 women officers whose achievements were highlighted by the Supreme Court in its landmark 2020 judgment on gender parity in the Armys top positions.

The judgment dismissed the governments arguments against granting women command appointments and specifically acknowledged the accomplishments of these 11 female officers.

Lt Col Sophia Qureshi was the 1st woman officer to lead an Army training contingent at Exercise Force 18 - ASEAN Plus Multinational field training exercise in 2016 when she was 35. She was also the only Woman Officers Contingent Commander among all ASEAN Plus contingents. The exercise was based on the themes Humanitarian Mine Action and Peacekeeping Operations.

Lt Col Qureshi also served in the United Nations Peacekeeping Operation in Congo in 2006 when she was just 25. She has been associated with peacekeeping operations for over six years.

Lt Col Sophia Qureshi joined the Indian Army through the Officers Training Academy in 1999. At an event at Miranda House, Sophia said, My mother wanted us sisters to join the Armed Forces.

Wing Commander Vyomika Singh who shared the dais with Lt Col Sophia to address the media, is a helicopter pilot in the Air Force and is specialized in helicopter operations.

Singh was commissioned into the IAF on December 18, 2004, as part of the 21st Short Service Commission (Women) Flying Pilot Course and was promoted to the rank of Wing Commander on December 18, 2017.

Wing Commander Singh has logged more than 2,500 flying hours. She has operated helicopters like the Chetak and Cheetah in some of the toughest terrains, including Jammu and Kashmir and the Northeast.

Operation Sindoor

The Operation Sindoor, which started at 01:05 AM and lasted for 25 minutes till 01:30 AM Wednesday May 07, 2025, was a joint military operation coordinated by all the three wings of the Indian forces  the Indian Army, Indian Air Force (IAF) and Indian Navy.

As many as 24 cruise missiles were fired at 9 locations in Pakistan. The Indian Army in the media briefing said 5 of the 9 locations were in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) while 4 were in Pakistan.

The 9 locations targeted by the Indian Forces on Wednesday are LeT Markaz Ahle Hadees Barnala, LeT Shawai Nalla Camp Muzaffarabad, LeT Markaz Taiba Muridke, JeM Markaz Subhanallah Bahawalpur, JeM Tehra Kalan Sarjal, JeM Syedna Bilal Camp Muzaffarabad, JeM Markaz Abbas Kotli, HM Maskar Raheel Shahid Kotli and HM Mehmoona Joya Sialkot.

Giving details of the military operation, Lt Col Sophia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, said no military installations of Pakistan were targeted and the aim was to give justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and eliminate the terrorist training camps.

Pakistan, on the other hand, claimed civilians were targeted in the attack and called the Indian airstrikes "provocation". The Pakistan Army also claimed shooting down 5 Indian fighter jets. Pakistan also vowed to defend itself and retaliate under Article 51 of the UN Charter.

Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, adopted in 1945, focuses on the right of self-defense for member states. It states that nothing in the Charter impairs a states right to self-defense if an armed attack occurs against it, until the Security Council takes necessary measures to maintain international peace and security.

Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates.

Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic.
MISSOULA  The University of Montana will celebrate over 1,800-degree candidates who make up the class of 2025 during its Commencement celebration on Saturday, May 10.

It is an honor to be among the first to congratulate the UM class of 2025, said UM President Seth Bodnar. We are thrilled for these talented graduates to launch their careers and live fulfilling lives. Their hard work and determination will be celebrated for years to come.

The University will host two on-campus ceremonies at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. in the Adams Center. The 9 a.m. ceremony will include graduates of the College of Humanities and Sciences, department of Public Administration and Policy, W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation, and the Phyllis J. Washington College of Education. The 2 p.m. ceremony will include graduates from the College of Business, Missoula College, College of Health, and the College of Arts and Media.

During the ceremonies, UM will present honorary doctorates to Steve Rinella and Eric Sprunk. Rinella is the New York Times-best selling author of more than 10 books, the star of the Netflix television series MeatEater and the host of The MeatEater Podcast. Rinella has become an influential thought leader for connecting modern society with nature. UM will present him with an Honorary Doctorate of Forestry and Conservation at the 9 a.m. ceremony.

Sprunk worked at Nike Inc. for 27 years, rising to the rank of chief operating officer as he helped transform and grow one of the worlds most recognizable and successful brands. UM will present him with an Honorary Doctorate of Business during the 2 p.m. ceremony.

The Spring Commencement Ceremonies are free and open to the public.

UM will provide additional ADA parking spaces and seating areas for the ceremony. Other accessible accommodations are available on a first-come basis. Please arrive early if accessible accommodations are needed. Attendees in need of other accessibility accommodations can email Brandon Kress in the Adams Center at brandon.kress@mso.umt.edu or call 406-243-5357. Visit the Accessibility and Special Accommodations page for more information.

The public also can livestream the event on the Spring 2025 Commencement website.

For more information visit the Spring 2025 Commencement website or email questions to commencement@umontana.edu.

###

Contact: Dave Kuntz, UM director of strategic communications, 406-243-5659, dave.kuntz@umontana.edu.
Four wounded, numerous destructions in Zaporizhia as result of night attack by enemy UAVs

Four wounded civilians and numerous destructions as a result of a night attack by Russian drones on Zaporizhia, head of the Zaporizhia regional military administration Ivan Fedorov reported on the Telegram channel.

"A private house was destroyed, seven high-rise buildings and 14 private houses were damaged, as well as infrastructure facilities, including critical ones. Zaporizhia is recovering from the consequences of the night enemy attack. Since night, utility workers have been closing windows in damaged houses. Work has been completed on half of the facilities," Fedorov wrote on Telegram.

The head of the regional military administration also thanked the power engineers who promptly restored power supply during the attack.

"At night, the Russians damaged the energy infrastructure of the regional center. As a result of the attack by enemy UAVs, more than 42,000 consumers in two districts of the city were left without electricity. Two hours later, the residents of Zaporizhia had light - energy workers restored power supply literally during the attack," Fedorov wrote.
Trump: If Russia had not been expelled from G8, there would have been no war

Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/

Russia should never have been expelled from the G8, said US President Donald Trump, speaking to reporters on Tuesday.

Trump said that he doesnt think he was really in politics at that point, but he knew that President Obama hadn't liked it and that they had voted against Russia. He said that if they hadn't voted against Russiawhich he thinks was a very stupid decision, since the group consisted of people who sat around the table, as he had done many times with them and gotten to know themthen if it had been the G8, with Russia included, he believed the senseless, deadly war wouldn't have happened. He said it had been a very bad decision.

He emphasized that now is not the time for Russia to return to the G8.

He concluded by saying that he doesnt think it is the right time and that they had missed the opportunity. He added that they had missed it by another so-called great decision made by some people.
Chief Rabbi of Ukraine Moshe Reuven Azman announced his arrival in Washington, where, in particular, he met with US President's Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff.

"My principle in life is that words from the heart will definitely reach another heart! Thank you, Steve Witkoff, for the attention. May the Almighty help me to open everyone's eyes to the truth!" he wrote on Facebook.

The Chief Rabbi of Ukraine also noted that he had a "good conversation" with Doug Burgum, the US Secretary of the Interior. Moshe Reuven Azman called him "a very influential person in the new government."

"I thanked the US government in his person for its support for Ukraine and Israel, told about the difficult trials of the Ukrainian people, and called for continued assistance, in the name of the Victory of Light. Thank you for your attention, Mr. Doug, for your openness and sincere desire to hear!" he wrote.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Chief Rabbi of Ukraine published a video on social networks, where he said that he had arrived in the US. According to Moshe Reuven Assman, he has many important meetings planned to "do good and tell the truth," aimed at ensuring that the US continues to assist Ukraine. He assured that he "will do everything possible for this."
SEATTLE  The U.S. Departments of Education, Health and Human Services, and the General Services Administration announced a review Tuesday of anti-Semitic violence at the University of Washington following incidents of harassment and property destruction on its Seattle campus.

The Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism, formed under President Donald Trump's executive order, commended the university's condemnation of Monday's violence and the swift response by law enforcement to remove protesters. However, the task force urged stronger measures to ensure Jewish students' safety.

"The violence and chaos that ensued on University of Washington's campus is yet another horrifying display of the antisemitic harassment and lawlessness which has characterized many of our nation's elite campuses over the last several years. This destructive behavior is unacceptable," said U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. "The Task Force will not allow these so-called 'protesters' to disrupt campus life and deprive students, especially Jewish students who live in fear on campus, of their equal opportunity protections and civil rights."

Monday's unrest involved pro-Palestinian protesters demanding the university divest from Boeing due to its military contracts linked to the Gaza conflict. The protesters barricaded an engineering building, set fires, and shouted death threats at law enforcement, according to the task force.

"No institution that tolerates violence, harassment, or the open intimidation of Jewish students should expect to receive billions in taxpayer support," said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. "This isn't about politicsit's about whether a federally funded university is upholding the law, protecting civil rights, and fostering a safe environment for all students."

The review follows similar actions at Columbia and Harvard universities, signaling a broader federal crackdown on campus anti-Semitism. The task force emphasized that institutions receiving federal funds must comply with civil rights laws.

"The despicable events that occurred at the University of Washington are another disturbing example of how institutions are failing to protect their communities from radical and dangerous harassment," said GSA Federal Acquisition Service Commissioner Josh Gruenbaum. "The Task Force has a clear mandate  to ensure institutions that receive federal funds are fully complying with civil rights laws  we will use every tool available to fulfill that mandate."

The University of Washington has not yet responded publicly to the federal review. The task force expects the university to implement policy changes to prevent future incidents and ensure a safe learning environment for all students.

The review underscores growing concerns about anti-Semitic activity on U.S. campuses, with federal agencies signaling zero tolerance for harassment and violence targeting Jewish students.
Small-business owners will have an opportunity to learn about government contracting Tuesday, May 13.

Janean Forsyth and Sara Mikesell Growney will discuss the subject during a Wyoming APEX Accelerator Lunch and Learn webinar titled Government Contracting 101 from noon-1 p.m. To register, go here. Registration is free. The webinar is the first in the Government Contracting Fundamentals Summer Series presented in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

Wyoming APEX Accelerator, part of the Wyoming Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network housed at the University of Wyoming, is the states expert in government contracting assistance.

The webinar offers an introduction for small-business owners to sell their goods or services to the government, including required registrations and finding and marketing to customers.

Forsyth, Wyoming APEX Accelerator program manager, has a background in compliance, training, human resources and equal employment opportunity. She is passionate about helping small businesses succeed in navigating the world of government contracting.

Mikesell Growney is a procurement adviser for Wyoming APEX Accelerator. She was a decade-long business owner and has experience in marketing, accounting, lobbying, public relations, public policy, grassroots organizing, campaigning and legal work.

For more information, call Tyler Schanck, marketing, communication and database manager for the Wyoming SBDC Network, at (307) 343-0925 or email tschank@uwyo.edu.

The Wyoming SBDC Network offers business expertise to help Wyoming residents think about, launch, grow, reinvent or exit their business. The Wyoming SBDC Network is supported by state funds from the Wyoming Business Council and funded, in part, through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. SBA.
The enemy attacked Ukraine at night with four ballistic missiles and 142 drones, a woman and her son were killed, seven wounded, including four children, are known, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

"Overnight, the Russians launched four ballistic missiles and 142 drones, half of them Shaheds. Dozens of drones in our sky. Kyiv was hit twice. First ballistics, and in the morning - drones. Now all services are on the ground, helping people. As of now, seven wounded are known, including four children. Unfortunately, there are dead - a woman and her son. My condolences to their families and loved ones," the president wrote on Telegram on Wednesday morning.

Since the evening, there have been many strikes on Zaporizhia, Donetsk, Zhytomyr, Kherson, and Dnipro regions. Rescuers worked everywhere. After the Russian ballistics strike on Velyka Chernechchyna in Sumy region, the Russians also began to use aerial bombs, shelling this area. It was then that rescue operations were underway, Zelenskyy added.

"Only a significant increase in pressure on Russia and strengthening of sanctions can pave the way for diplomacy. Any measures that will deprive the aggressor of resources for waging war must be applied for the sake of lasting peace. I thank the partners who understand this and help. I thank everyone who helps Ukraine with air defense. Russia must be held responsible for what it does," the head of state noted.
A divided US Supreme Court on Tuesday allowed President Donald Trump's ban on transgender military personnel to take effect while litigation plays out, putting thousands of troops at risk of dismissal.

The ruling -- which the court's three liberal justices opposed -- is a significant victory for Trump, who has made rolling back transgender rights a major part of his second term in office, and has railed against judges who blocked parts of his agenda.

Lambda Legal and the Human Rights Campaign Foundation -- which filed the lawsuit that had resulted in a lower court temporarily blocking the implementation of the ban -- slammed the Supreme Court's decision.

The ruling "is a devastating blow to transgender servicemembers who have demonstrated their capabilities and commitment to our nation's defense," the organizations said in a statement .

"Transgender individuals meet the same standards and demonstrate the same values as all who serve. We remain steadfast in our belief that this ban violates constitutional guarantees of equal protection and will ultimately be struck down," they said.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt hailed the ruling as "another MASSIVE victory in the Supreme Court," saying in a post on X that Trump and Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth "are restoring a military that is focused on readiness and lethality -- not DEI or woke gender ideology."

Hegseth meanwhile responded to the news with a post on his personal X account that said: "No More Trans @ DoD."

In a January 27 executive order, Trump stated that "expressing a false 'gender identity' divergent from an individual's sex cannot satisfy the rigorous standards necessary for military service."

- Shifting policies -

The Pentagon followed that up with a memo issued in late February stating that it would remove transgender troops from the military unless they obtain a waiver on a case-by-case basis, as well as prevent transgender people from joining.

The Supreme Court's decision to allow the ban to take effect means thousands of currently serving troops could be removed from the ranks.

The restrictions in the Pentagon memo are aimed at those who have been diagnosed with gender dysphoria -- of whom there were 4,240 serving in the military as of late last year, according to a senior defense official -- as well as those who have a history of the condition or exhibit symptoms of it.

Transgender Americans have faced a roller coaster of changing policies on military service in recent years, with Democratic administrations seeking to permit them to serve openly, while Trump has sought to keep them out of the ranks.

The US military lifted a ban on transgender troops in 2016, during Democrat Barack Obama's second term as president.

Under that policy, trans troops already serving were permitted to do so openly, and transgender recruits were set to start being accepted by July 1, 2017.

But the first Trump administration postponed that date to 2018 before deciding to reverse the policy entirely.

Trump's restrictions on transgender military service -- which underwent changes in response to various legal challenges -- eventually came into force in April 2019 following a protracted legal battle that went all the way to the nation's top court.

His Democratic successor Joe Biden moved to reverse the restrictions just days after he took office in 2021, but Trump was reelected last year after making clear he would again seek to target transgender rights.

Transgender issues have roiled US politics in recent years, as states controlled by Democrats and Republicans have moved in opposite directions on policies ranging from medical treatment to what books on the topic are allowed in public or school libraries.

wd/md
The United States and Yemen's Huthis have agreed a ceasefire, mediators announced, saying the deal would ensure "freedom of navigation" in the Red Sea where the Iran-backed rebels have attacked shipping for months.

The agreement comes after President Donald Trump announced that the United States would end attacks against the Huthis after the rebels agreed to stop harassing ships, though he made no direct mention of recent attacks on ally Israel.

Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi on Tuesday said that "following recent discussions and contacts... with the aim of de-escalation, efforts have resulted in a ceasefire agreement between the two sides".

"Neither side will target the other... ensuring freedom of navigation and the smooth flow of international commercial shipping" in the Red Sea, he added in a statement.

At the White House, Trump said the rebels had "capitulated" after a seven-week US bombing campaign that left 300 dead, according to an AFP tally of Huthi figures.

The rebels' political leader Mahdi al-Mashat did not comment on the accord but promised a "painful" response to deadly Israeli strikes in retaliation for missile fire at Israel's main airport.

Huthi spokesman Mohammed Abdelsalam told the rebels' Al-Masirah television channel that any US action would garner a response. "If the American enemy resumes its attacks, we will resume our strikes," he said.

"The real guarantee for the accord is the dark experience that the United States has had in Yemen," he added.

Mashat said attacks on Israel, the United States' main ally in the region, "will continue" and go "beyond what the Israeli enemy can withstand".

Huthi rebels have been attacking Israel and merchant shipping in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden since late 2023, saying they are acting in solidarity with the Palestinians in Gaza.

The Yemeni rebels had paused their attacks during a recent two-month ceasefire in the Gaza war.

But in March, they threatened to resume attacks on shipping over Israel's aid blockade on the Gaza Strip, triggering a response from the US military, which began hammering the rebels with near-daily air strikes.

"The Huthis have announced... that they don't want to fight anymore. They just don't want to fight," Trump said.

"And we will honour that, and we will stop the bombings, and they have capitulated," he added.

"They say they will not be blowing up ships anymore, and that's... the purpose of what we were doing."

The Pentagon said last week that US strikes had hit more than 1,000 targets in Yemen since mid-March.

- 'Completely destroyed' -

Trump's comments came hours after Israeli warplanes knocked the airport in Yemen's rebel-held capital Sanaa out of action in raids that killed three people, according to the Huthis.

The Sanaa airport suspended all flights until further notice, its director said on Wednesday, after it sustained "severe damage" in the Israeli strikes.

"Around $500 million in losses were caused by the Israeli aggression on Sanaa airport," its general director Khaled al-Shaief told Al-Masirah television.

Israel's military said "fighter jets struck and dismantled Huthi terrorist infrastructure at the main airport in Sanaa, fully disabling the airport".

The strikes came after a Huthi missile gouged a crater near Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion airport on Sunday.

- 'Fear and terror' -

Residents reported power cuts after the Israelis also struck three electricity stations in and around the capital.

"Our children are terrified," said Umm Abdallah, a 35-year-old Sanaa resident.

"They are afraid to go to the bathroom or eat because of the strikes."

Just before Tuesday's attacks, Israel's military called on Yemeni civilians to "immediately" evacuate the airport and its surroundings.

Tensions have soared this week over Israel's plan to expand military operations in Gaza and displace much of the besieged territory's population.

The UN special envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, called the attacks in Yemen and Israel "a grave escalation".

Israel says it has targeted Yemen five times since July 2024. Huthi authorities have reported a total of 29 people killed. Israel's army regularly intercepts missiles launched from Yemen.

Sanaa airport reopened to international flights in 2022 after a six-year blockade by a Saudi-led coalition fighting the Huthis. It offers a regular service to Jordan on the national airline Yemenia.

str-aya/ser
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/olga.kravets.

Canada has begun the process of confiscating the An-124 Ruslan transport aircraft, which belongs to the Russian airline Volga-Dnepr, and was already under seizure in Canada, said Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration  Minister of Justice of Ukraine Olha Stefanishyna.

"The confiscation of the Russian plane Ruslan was one of my first goals in the first month of my work as Minister of Justice. And here is the result of our team's work: Canada has begun the process of confiscating the An-124 transport plane Ruslan, which belongs to the Russian airline Volga-Dnepr, and was already seized in Canada The confiscation procedure is taking place within the Canadian law on special economic measures and now the decision on confiscation must be made by the Ontario Superior Court," Stefanishyna indicated on Facebook.

She noted that this is another important step on the path to justice and the restoration of peace in Ukraine. Filing a lawsuit to seize the aircraft in court is a joint result of the painstaking work of employees of the Ministry of Justice, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in close cooperation with our partners.

"And this is an excellent example of how international law works in practice," Stefanishyna emphasized.

The Deputy Prime Minister recalled that in August 2023, the High Anti-Corruption Court (HACC), having established the grounds for applying sanctions, satisfied the claim of the Ministry of Justice to apply sanctions in the form of confiscation of assets of the sanctioned Volga-Dnepr to the state's income. The Ministry of Justice transferred the HACC's decision to Canadian partners.

"And now the Attorney General of Canada has applied to the Ontario Superior Court with a motion to confiscate the Russian plane. I am convinced that all actions lead to one thing: Ruslan will soon have a new home - in Ukraine, where it will serve for the good of our state. I am grateful to Canada for its unwavering support and decisive actions. Justice is not just words, but concrete steps that we see today. And this is just the beginning," she summed up.
All eyes turn to Rome as the conclave to elect the 267th pope begins.

The papal conclave, the solemn and secretive process in which cardinals convene to choose a successor to Pope Francis, gets underway in the Vatican on Wednesday 7 May.

Following a Mass in St Peters Basilica on Wednesday morning, the conclave will begin at 16.30 that afternoon when the 133 cardinal-electors enter the Sistine Chapel ahead of the first vote.

Here they will swear an oath of secrecy before the Sistine Chapel doors are closed and the cardinals begin the centuries-old voting system shrouded in secrecy.

In total there are 252 cardinals from 90 countries but only those under the age of 80 are eligible to elect a new leader of the Catholic Church.

Two of the 135 eligible cardinal-electors have dropped out of the conclave for health reasons: Antonio Canizares of Spain and John Njue of Kenya.

Conclave demographics

Francis, who died last month aged 88, appointed 108 of the 135 cardinal-electors, many of them from countries far away from the Vatican's traditional European powerhouse.

This conclave will see the participation of 52 cardinal-electors from Europe, 23 from Asia, 21 from Central and South America, 18 from Africa, and 10 from the US.

This international mix offers a more global perspective than ever before and makes it even harder to predict who will emerge from the conclave as the 267th pope and leader of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics.

Italy remains the most represented country in Europe with 17 cardinal-electors however this number is far below the 28 Italian cardinals who voted in the 2013 conclave that elected Jorge Mario Bergoglio as Pope Francis.

Oldest and youngest cardinal-electors

The oldest cardinal-elector in the conclave is Spain's Carlos Osoro Sierra, the retired archbishop of Madrid, who turns 80 in June.

The youngest is the Ukrainian-born Mykola Bychok, 45, who serves in Melbourne, Australia.

Is there a limit to how many cardinal-electors can vote?

This conclave will be the first with more than 120 cardinal-electors since the introduction of the 120 limit in 1975 by Pope Paul VI, a rule reaffirmed in 1996 by Pope John Paul II.

The 133 number breaks the previous record of 115 cardinal-electors in the 2005 and 2013 conclaves, which led to the election of Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis respectively.

However the College of Cardinals said last week that Pope Francis had lawfully dispensed with the numerical limit by exercising his supreme authority as pontiff.

Where do cardinals stay during the conclave?

The word "conclave" comes from the Latin cum clavis - meaning "with a key" - reflecting the tradition of locking the cardinals away from the outside world.

During the conclave, the cardinal-electors will reside in the nearby Casa Santa Marta guest house, the former Vatican residence of Pope Francis.

The cardinals will dine together and are served simple meals comprising pasta, rice, soup, boiled vegetables and white meat, along with a little wine but no spirits.

Sworn to secrecy

During the conclave the cardinals are sworn to secrecy and are banned from communicating with the outside world, meaning no phones, newspapers, television or internet.

To ensure there is no external contact or outside influence, the Vatican will use jammers to disrupt phone signals for the duration of the conclave.

Vatican officials involved in the conclave have also been obliged to take an oath of secrecy, under penalty of excommunication.

Papabili

Cardinal-electors will essentially be tasked with choosing whether they want a pope who will continue the reforms and progressive legacy of Francis or whether they want a more conservative candidate.

Ahead of the conclave, several prominent cardinals have been touted in the media as papabili - potential contenders to succeed Francis, who is buried in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.

Some of the alleged front-runners include Vatican secretary of state, 70-year-old Italian cardinal Pietro Parolin, and Filipino cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, 67, the latter of whom was seen as a papal contender the last time round.

However Vatican experts are quick to stress the unpredictable nature of conclaves, pointing to the old adage: "He who enters the conclave as pope, leaves it as a cardinal".

Conclave history

This conclave will be the 76th in the form we know today, which was established by Pope Gregory X in 1274.

The Sistine Chapel - built between 1477 and 1480 by Pope Sixtus IV after whom it is named - has hosted every conclave since 1878.

The first conclave held in the Sistine Chapel was in 1492, with several conclaves held in other locations including the Quirinal Palace in Rome, now the official residence of Italy's president.

Some conclaves have even been held outside of Italy.

The conclave of 1314-16 took place in France, during the Avignon papacy.

The last conclave to be held outside of Italy was the Council of Constance, held in Germany from 1415-17, that resulted in the election of Pope Martin V.

The upcoming conclave will be the 26th to be held in the Sistine Chapel, under the gaze of Michelangelo's Last Judgment fresco.

Voting

In line with tradition, the Vatican installed a temporary wooden platform over the chapel's floor, along with wooden tables and cherry wood seats where the 133 cardinal-electors will take their place.

How the Sistine Chapel looks on the eve of the conclave to elect a new pope. Vatican Media pic.twitter.com/Kh0Xe31m0D  Wanted in Rome (@wantedinrome) May 6, 2025

Cardinals will vote a maximum of four times per day - twice in the morning and twice in the afternoon - until one candidate secures a two-thirds majority.

The new pope will need the backing of at least 89 cardinals to be elected.

The Vatican has also installed a double furnace that has two purposes, one of which is to burn the ballots after votes have been cast.

When to see the conclave smoke

The other purpose of the stove is an ancient custom to signal to the world whether the round of voting has been decisive or not.

If the vote is inconclusive the smoke will be black. If a pope has been elected, the smoke will be white and bells will ring out.

Crowds will gather in St Peter's Square to watch closely the colour of the smoke billowing out through the chapel's makeshift chimney.

The smoke signals traditionally occur at around midday and early evening, around 19.00.

The first smoke from the Sistine Chapel is expected at around 19.00 on Wednesday.

On Thursday the first smoke signal could be at around noon, unless a new pope is chosen in the first round of votes that day, in which case the white smoke would billow out at around 10.30.

If the vote on Thursday morning is inconclusive, the next smoke signal could be expected at 19.00, unless a new pope is chosen in the first afternoon vote, in which case the white smoke would appear at around 17.30.

How long will the conclave last?

Since the start of the 20th century, most conclaves have lasted two or three days.

John Paul II was elected after eight ballots, over two days, in 1978.

Rome bids farewell to Pope Francis pic.twitter.com/FumpBs0PXo  Wanted in Rome (@wantedinrome) April 26, 2025

Francis and his predecessor Benedict XVI were both elected in less than two days, in 2013 and 2005 respectively.

The longest conclave in history, in the 13th century, lasted two years and nine months.

What happens after a cardinal gets elected?

Once a cardinal secures the necessary majority, he will be asked by the dean of the College of Cardinals - currently Giovanni Battista Re - if he is willing to accept his election as pope.

If he answers in the affirmative, he will be asked by what name he would like to be known.

Room of Tears

Once a pope is elected, he will be led to the so-called Room of Tears, a small antechamber next to the Sistine Chapel where he dons the white papal vestments for the first time.

The room contains three different sizes of papal outfits - large, medium and small - for the new pontiff to choose from and initially dress in.

Habemus papam

The dean of the College of Cardinals will then appear on the central balcony of St Peter's Basilica and announce "Habemus papam", which translates from Latin as: "We have a pope", before revealing the name of the new pontiff.

The pope will greet the crowds from the balcony and impart a traditional Urbi et Orbi (To the city and the world) blessing, used only at Christmas, Easter and on the election of a new pope.

Sede vacante

Until the election of a new pope, the Catholic Church remains in the Sede vacante period - a Latin reference to the chair of the Holy See being vacant.

Where to watch conclave updates

As the international media descends on the Vatican, conclave news updates will be widely available on social media channels across the world.

Several Italian television networks including RAI and Mediaset will be showing a series of programmes related to the conclave, with extensive live coverage and streaming offered by Vatican Media Live and Vatican Radio.

Conclave security plan

Streets around the Vatican have been closed to traffic as part of tight security measures, with parking restrictions and a series of checkpoints leading to St Peter's Square.

How to get to St Peter's by public transport

The nearest subway stops to St Peter's are the Metro A stations Cipro and Ottaviano.

The FL3 and FL5 regional trains stop at the San Pietro railway station.

The St Peter's area can be reached by the following bus lines: 23, 32, 34, 40, 46, 49, 62, 64, 70, 87, 98, 190F (holiday line), 280, 492, 495, 881, 916, 916F and 982.

Photo credit: Marco Iacobucci Epp / Shutterstock.com.
On Saturday, May 10 at 10am, John Cabot University (JCU) will open its doors to prospective students, parents, and anyone curious about what its like to study at an American liberal arts university in Rome. The Italian-language Open Day will take place at JCUs main campus in Trastevere, offering a full morning of discovery, conversation, and connection.

During the event, visitors will:

Take part in a guided campus tour , exploring JCUs three central campuses located in the heart of Rome.

Meet current students and alumni to hear firsthand about their academic journeys, campus life, and professional experiences after graduation.

Attend an interactive sample class , giving a real taste of the universitys teaching style and classroom environment.

Enjoy a casual barbecue, where guests can relax, mingle, and experience the friendly and international spirit of the JCU community.

Whether you're considering applying or simply want to learn more about international higher education in Rome, this is a perfect chance to see JCU up close and in person.

Location: John Cabot University, Trastevere, Rome

Time: May 10, 10:00 AM

Registration required  spots are limited! Register here
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/RedCrossUkraine

The Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) is helping victims in Kyiv at the sites of the liquidation of the consequences of the Russian drone attack.

"This night, the capital was once again shelled. Volunteers of the rapid response unit of the National Committee of the Ukrainian Red Cross Society provided assistance at three locations. In particular, in the Sviatoshynsky district of Kyiv, volunteers provided first aid to two victims, and five more people received first psychological aid," the URCS reported on Facebook on Wednesday.

Currently, volunteers are providing assistance in the Shevchenkivsky district of Kyiv. The URCS has set up an aid point where victims can charge their gadgets, drink tea, and receive the necessary support. Ten people have already received first psychological aid at this location.

As reported, as a result of the Russian shelling of the capital, two people were killed and eight injured.

Apartment buildings in the Sviatoshynsky, Shevchenkivsky and Dniprovsky districts of Kyiv were damaged.

Emergency and rescue operations are currently underway in the Shevchenkivsky district of Kyiv.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month and a Waterford doctor is encouraging people to 'make time for awe' and in doing so enhance their health and wellbeing.

To coincide with the them of the month Dr Mark Rowe, who is a best-selling author of four books and lifestyle medicine pioneer is championing the aforementioned theme.

Highly respected as a leading wellbeing expert, Dr Rowe is encouraging everyone in the community to pause, reflect and reconnect with the power of awe in daily life. 'Make Time for Awe' is a simple and powerful approach to improve mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

Many people associate 'awe' with once-off inspiring life events, however, Dr Rowe said it can be part of everyday life: In our fast-paced, hyperconnected world, awe is often overlooked, yet the experience of awe is at the cutting edge of research on emotional wellbeing."

"Our bodies respond differently when we are experiencing awe than when we are feeling joy, contentment or fear. Awe, those moments that stop us in our tracks and fill us with wonder, can have profound benefits for mental health," he said.

"They can expand our perspective, reduce stress, and foster a deeper sense of connection with others and the world around us," he added.

Dr Rowe said that physically, awe activates the vagal nerves or the clusters of neurons in the spinal cord that regulate various bodily functions, slowing our heart rate and breathing, while easing digestion. He said that in addition, it also has psychological benefits: "Many of us have a critical voice in our head, telling us were not smart enough, beautiful or simply good enough. Awe seems to quieten this negative self-talk."

Dr Rowe has spent years researching the intersection of science, spirituality, and wellbeing and his message for May is clear: "Positive mental health is not just about addressing illness, its an ongoing strategy to actively nurture resilience, cultivate micro-moments of joy and experience meaning in everyday life."

Dr Mark Rowe details the health benefits as AWESOME: A - An antidote to stress; W - Wonder and inspiration; E - Enhances health - supports immunity and lowers inflammation; S - Satisfaction with life increases; O - Other-centred, in terms of connectedness, cooperation and kindness; M - More curious and creative; E - Emotional wellbeing and happiness increase.

Making time for awe in daily life might sound lofty, but its actually about slowing down just enough to notice the extraordinary in the ordinary," he added. Throughout May, Dr. Rowe will be sharing daily reflections and simple practices to help individuals invite 'awe' into their everyday lives, on his social media channels as part of the #MakeTimeForAwe in the month of May.

For more information, follow Dr Rowe on @DrMarkRowe or visit drmarkrowe.com
Ahead of the official awards ceremony on June 5, Chambers Ireland have announced the shortlist for the 2025 Chamber Awards, with Waterford and Dungarvan & West Waterford Chambers picking up multiple nominations.

The awards recognise the outstanding work of affiliated Chambers around the country, while providing a platform for Chambers to share and promote how active and engaged they are across several different areas.

The shortlist features 48 projects from 20 affiliated Chambers across the country.

Waterford Chamber are nominated in the Best International Project category for building trade links with Markischer Kreis, Germany.

In the Event of the Year category, Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber are nominated for their communications series, whilst Waterford Chamber received a nomination for their hosting of an off-shore wind strategic event.

Waterford Chamber also received a nomination for Best Community Support Initiative for driving diversity and inclusion in Waterford.

For supporting businesses, Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber are nominated for providing Irelands first menopause in the workplace employer support pack.

Commenting on the reveal of the shortlist, Ian Talbot, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive, said, Through their work in supporting local economic development, Chambers take the lead in launching innovative campaigns, projects and policy proposals. Our goal in hosting this national awards ceremony is to promote this creativity and hard work."
On Friday, May 23, the SpeakEasy poetry event will welcome Derry-born poet Micheal McCann to Waterford.

Micheal McCann is a rising star of the Irish poetry scene, whose debut collection, Devotion, was published by Gallery Press in 2024.

SpeakEasy's third event of 2025 will happen in Phil Grimes Pub at 8pm on the 23rd, and will also feature musician Eoin Dalton.

Eoin is one-fifth of the band Birds of Burden and is currently developing songs for his debut album.

As well as Devotion, Micheal is the author of two pamphlets, Safe Home and Keeper. He was awarded the inaugural Ireland Chair of Poetry Student Prize in 2019, and was chosen to take part in the National Centre for Writings International Literature Showcase 2020-2021.

SpeakEasy is a literary and open mic event based in Waterford City. The open mic section of the event is hugely popular with local writers, and writers of all abilities are invited to share a poem or short prose piece.

At each open mic, SpeakEasy spotlights a writers' group and the spotlight group for May 23 is West Waterford Arts Group.

SpeakEasy's main sponsor is Waterford City and County Council, and it also receives generous support from the Granville Hotel and Phil Grimes Pub. Entry to SpeakEasy is 5 on the door, cash only.
The weakest sectors of the day were financials (down 0.6 per cent), consumer discretionary (down 0.3 per cent), and healthcare (down 0.1 per cent). The only major bank in positive territory was NAB (up 1.4 per cent). Its competitors CBA (down 0.3 per cent), Westpac (down 1.2 per cent), and ANZ (down 1.9 per cent), all struggled throughout the day. Meridian Energy and Mercury New Zealand were two of the worst performers, after being two of the strongest yesterday. They were down 3.3 per cent and 2.9 per cent respectively at close of trading. Woodside closed 0.8 per cent down, with Santos and BHP closing flat. Rio Tinto rose by 0.1 per cent. The lowdown

Loading The Australian market rebounded after falling at the open after US President Donald Trump teased a trade deal to be announced at a White House press conference at midnight AEST. While the first trade deal  or more likely a tariff reduction  would be important, the outcome of US-China negotiations this weekend in Switzerland were even more crucial, Moomoo market strategist Jessica Amir said. I think that that will put fire under the belly of commodities, she said. I do believe that the bull scenario could gain firepower if there is any reduction of tariffs on either side of the US or China. US earnings, outlooks and macroeconomic data had all been stronger than expected, she said, and recently downtrodden energy and materials sectors could catch a bid when more trade deals were brokered and market sentiment improved.

Analysts from NABs US economics team said the ongoing trade policy uncertainty would weigh on activity. Loading While financial markets have recovered some ground in recent weeks on the back of more positive trade developments, it is still very unclear where tariffs will ultimately settle, which may cause investment decisions to be deferred, they said. IG market analyst Tony Sycamore said he expected the ASX 200 to spend some time [months] rotating around the 200-day moving average [currently at 8147], albeit with a good dose of the usual volatility viewed in May thrown into the mix. ANZ reported cash profits of $3.6 billion, flat on the same period a year earlier, in the last results for outgoing chief executive Shayne Elliott before he is replaced by Nuno Matos. Compared with the September half, cash profits bounced by 12 per cent.

Elliott said the bank made record revenue in the half year, as Suncorp banks earnings were included in ANZs, and it had growth in home loans at 3 per cent during the period. Charges for impaired loans fell sharply compared with the September half, from $336 million to $145 million. The bank will pay a dividend of 83, also flat compared with the first half of last year. The dividend will be franked at 70 per cent. Toll roads giant Transurban has announced it will cut 300 jobs after a review of its business. Transurban operates nearly all Australias 21 toll roads, including Melbournes CityLink and Sydneys WestConnex. Transurban shares were 1.7 per cent higher. The S&P 500 rose 0.4 per cent. The index is coming off a two-day losing streak that had snapped its nine-day winning run. The Dow Jones rose 0.7 per cent, and the Nasdaq composite added 0.3 per cent. US Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell said the central bank had time to wait before making any potential moves on rates, but he warned that sustained tariffs could both weaken the economy and trigger higher inflation. On Wall Street, indexes had been modestly higher earlier in the morning, with the Dow briefly up 400 points, on hopes that the US and China may be making the first moves towards a possible trade deal that could protect the global economy. The worlds two largest economies have been placing ever-increasing tariffs on each others products in an escalating trade war, and the fear is that they could cause a recession unless trade can move more freely.

The announcement for high-level talks between US and Chinese officials this weekend in Switzerland helped raise optimism, but some of that washed away after Trump said he would not reduce his 145 per cent tariffs on Chinese goods as a condition for negotiations. China has made the de-escalation of the tariffs a requirement for talks. Such on-and-off uncertainty surrounding tariffs has helped create sharp swings within the US economy, including a rush on imports earlier this year to beat possible tariffs. Underneath those swings, as well as surveys showing US households are growing much more pessimistic about the future, the Fed said it continued to see the economy running at a solid pace at the moment. Powell said that gave the bank time to wait before making any potential moves on interest rates, even if Trump has been lobbying for quicker cuts to juice up the economy. Tweet of the day
Advertisement

Eating outGood Food events This dinner mixing Japanese and Italian cooking may be 2025s most intriguing meals Bonito bread. Pudding with miso banana. Paired drinks. A one hatted Japanese-Italian izakaya in Sydney is bringing the party to Perth for one night only. Max Veenhuyzen May 7, 2025 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

Advertisement

Milan-born chef Erik Ortolani of Surry Hills izakaya Ito is heading west. Jiwon Kim Yet for anyone with an interest in Japanese or Italian cooking  or, even better, Japanese and Italian cooking  this dinner may well be one of 2025s most intriguing meals. Introducing Ito x Santini: A Menu Without Borders. Taking place at Santini Bar & Grill at QT Perth on May 22, this one-off dinner sees Milan-born chef Erik Ortolani of hatted Surry Hills izakaya Ito head west to team up with Nic Wood and Jake Lynch  the culinary creative lead and executive chef, respectively, of Santini  to serve a dinner reimagining Italian cuisine through both restaurants lenses. When Terry Durack reviewed Ito in the Sydney Morning Herald last year, the veteran food writer highlighted the gingery bite of the kingfish crudo; the Japanese-accented salsa verde made of seaweed, fresh shiso and togarashi chilli that brightened a panzanella salad, plus other dishes that suggested modern Japanese and Italian cookery had more in common than most diners might assume. Some mash-ups between two different cuisines can feel forced, he wrote. But this one seems organic and natural.

Advertisement

Ortolanis career trajectory feels similarly organic and natural too. After studying cookery in Parma, he worked at Michelin-starred restaurants at luxurious hotels in Milan including the Park Hyatt and Armani Hotel. It was a stint at Milans output of Nobu that exposed Ortolani to ingredients and dishes beyond the classic Italian that he was familiar with. And if he wanted to pursue this new style of cooking, Ortolani would have to spread his wings. I was drawn to Australia by the casual Asian dining that was everywhere, he says. Back then, there wasnt a lot of that in Milan and Europe, although thats changing now. But because Australia was so close to Asia, it had a different food scene that felt like it was more produce-focused but at the same time, also laid-back. Related Article Good Food hat 15.5 / 20 Review This cosy South West cellar door restaurant is leading the way in farm-to-table eating A four-year stint at Potts Points modern Japanese eatery Cho Cho San was a defining a key passage in Ortolanis story, not least because his last two years were running the restaurants kitchen. Cho Cho Sans pace and modern dishes put Ortolani in good stead for his current role as head chef of an 80-seat neighbourhood izakaya fixated on the crossover between Japanese ingredients and Italian technique and vice versa. A self-confessed Italian guy cooking Japanese food, Ortolani enjoys the freedom of grabbing the right ingredient for a dish rather than the authentic one. That might mean deploying chewy Shanghai-style wheat noodles in a vegetarian mushroom pasta or using smoky katsuobushi (smoked tuna) to ramp up ravioli filled with four kinds of seafood.

Advertisement

Team Santini, meanwhile, will serve Japanese-influenced takes on the restaurants big-hitting Italian cooking a la tomahawks of Berkshire pork glazed with miso. Keeping on the Japanese izakaya theme, all courses will be paired with drinks from the Kirin portfolio, from crisp Ichiban lager to cocktails made with Hyoketsu shochu. This cross-cultural dinner isnt just a celebration of Japanese and Italian cooking: it will also be the first Good Food Events collaboration to be held in Western Australia since 2021. In the same way that Good Food celebrates excellence in food across the nation, Good Food Events brings the nations finest chefs, restaurateurs and thinkers through unique dining experiences. Additional Perth Good Food Events will be announced later in the year. Ito x Santini: A Menu Without Borders is being held at QT on Thursday May 22. Tickets are $159 per person and available online.
The Duchess of Sussex has revealed that she turned to Indian medicine during her pregnancies.

The duchess, 43, said she used the traditional ayurvedic system of medicine while pregnant with her children Prince Archie, six, and Princess Lilibet, three.

Speaking on the fifth episode of her Confessions of a Female Founder podcast, Meghan said: During my pregnancies I had an ayurvedic doctor and so much of it was about seeing food as medicine.

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, says she sought advice from an ayurvedic doctor during her pregnancies. Credit: nna

oliveri

Ayurveda, which originated in India more than 3000 years ago, aims to promote balance in the body, mind and spirit through a holistic approach to health and wellbeing with herbal remedies, dietary changes, detoxification and yoga.
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 The day after his 18th birthday, Jack died in a fall from a cliff in the Blue Mountains, west of Sydney. He had been in the care of the state, under the parental responsibility of the overseeing minister, for the five years before his death, though his mother Renee says care isnt the right word to describe Jacks treatment. Jack bounced between state-run group homes, hotels, and motels  some infested with mould and asbestos  and slept on the street. In one motel, he was allegedly assaulted by a carer. He stopped going to school, had minimal supervision and was exposed to drugs. Its a far cry from the care he was offered at home with Renee in Orange, where he went to a specialist school, had a part-time job, and saw a paediatric psychiatrist, or with her former partner, Mick, in Dubbo, where he had a job and apprenticeship. Mick believes with proper support, Jack would be alive and thriving today. Credit: Kate Geraghty Jacks mother and former carer are demanding answers from the Department of Communities and Justice, its minister Kate Washington, and the private organisations to which the government outsourced his care. Renee has requested that the family name and some details of Jacks private life be omitted to respect his memory. The Herald is publishing this piece to highlight the experience of the 15,000 children and young people in the child protection system, which the overseeing minister has labelled as broken and over which she has limited visibility.

Advertisement

Washington called the circumstances around Jacks death truly heartbreaking. I extend my deepest sympathy to his family, loved ones and community. The death of this young man is a terrible tragedy  he had a right to feel supported and safe, she said. A Department of Communities and Justice spokesperson said a number of issues raised in this article do not accurately reflect this incredibly complex matter but did not elaborate. It all went immediately downhill Those who knew Jack described him as bright, charming, gentlemanly and a born leader. He wanted to be a youth worker and loved mountain biking, fishing and going to the gym. As a survivor of complex trauma, Jack struggled with his mental health, leading to interactions with police. It was a gut-wrenching decision  It was the most painful thing I ever had to do. Renee on her son going into state care

Advertisement

In 2019, when Jack was 13, government caseworkers suggested that he be temporarily placed in state care away from Renee and his younger brother. Renee, feeling she had exhausted all other options, was told he would be cared for by professionals and supported to return home. NSW Minister for Family and Communities Kate Washington. Credit: Peter Stoop It was a gut-wrenching decision, and not one taken lightly  It was the most painful thing I ever had to do, she said. But Renee said none of the promises were kept. He was placed in a home so dirty, with unpleasant odours that even the carers  refused to sleep the night, Renee wrote in an email to DCJ. In another motel-owned serviced accommodation, Jack alleged to Renee that a carer had thrown him against the wall and hurled a laptop against his head. Photos Renee took after the incident show blood splattered across the white motel sheets and a bruise on Jacks head. Jack in state-funded accommodation after allegedly being physically assaulted by a carer.

Advertisement

She also said DCJ didnt tell her about Jacks two suicide attempts in three months since entering care, or his 15-kilogram weight gain. Renee also said Jack was unenrolled from his specialist school after caseworkers failed to lodge paperwork, that she found syringes in his bag, and that he said he drank beer that caseworkers left in the house fridge. Jacks relationship with his family deteriorated as caseworkers failed to take him to scheduled meet-ups: I often left in tears, devastated as we missed out on spending time with Jack. This did little to assist in repairing an already fragile relationship, Renee wrote in an email with DCJ. A petri dish for the juvenile justice system After three years in state care, Jacks mental health had worsened. In 2022, the government placed him in a 12-week emergency placement in a home in Inverell, 600 kilometres from Orange, run by private not-for-profit Pathfinders. Jack was placed in a short-term emergency placement for children with complex needs, where other care arrangements have been exhausted.

Advertisement

Depending on the level of therapeutic intervention, organisations that provide residential care can be paid between $119,000 and $504,000 per child per year for these placements. A 2024 Ombudsman report found one in three children had a substantiated allegation of abuse while in residential care, but a shortage of caseworkers meant allegations were not fully investigated. A DCJ staff member not authorised to speak to the media called forms of residential care a Petri dish for the juvenile justice system with no structure from workers. Jacks child protection counsellor raised significant concerns about the placement in a report sighted by the Herald, stating that none of the trauma-informed or therapeutic care advertised by the NGO was being delivered. She said in an email that the organisation was not meeting his needs, advising him to be returned to Orange as soon as possible. As Jacks schedule shrunk under the care of the state, he spent more time idling in places like the John Lomas Skate Park in Orange. Credit: Kate Geraghty The move also discharged Jack from the mental health services and paediatric psychiatrist in Orange. In emails to DCJ, Renee said Jack had been found unresponsive twice but not taken to the hospital; was given the incorrect psychotropic medication; was exposed to illicit drugs; and spent nights out of the home. Twice, he was admitted to the Acmena Youth Justice Centre at Grafton. My son was taken to an undisclosed location eight hours away, placed with men who dont know [my] child, with no therapy, school or support, Renee wrote in an email to DCJ.

Advertisement
The most in-demand public schools in Perth are concentrated in the south and western suburbs, with several high schools in those areas attracting well over 2000 enrolments at the start of 2025.

New state government data shows Rossmoyne Senior High School has become the states biggest school for the first time, surpassing the number enrolled at Shenton College by 51 students.

Eight public high schools now have more than 2000 enrolments, including Mount Lawley Senior High School, which recorded 2060 students in semester 1.

The majority of schools on the list of WAs largest have also recently undergone significant upgrades to help meet increasing enrolment demand.
One Labor observer said most of the voters who chose the Liberals with their primary votes gave their preferences to Witty rather than Bandt, saying this reflected on the Greens policies and campaign. Sarah Witty is set to become the new Labor member for Melbourne. Another Labor source said Bandt was receiving only 24 per cent of the preferences, but needed 33 per cent to win. He just needed more preferences to flow back to him, he said. A Greens spokesperson said the count had to proceed.

While there are many, many thousands of votes to be counted, we are not conceding Melbourne, the spokesperson said. Witty is a housing advocate and chief executive of the Nappy Collective, which provides free nappies to families in crisis. The count has taken several days because the Australian Electoral Commission did the first count assuming that the final two-candidate outcome was likely to pit the Greens against the Liberals, based on the last election. A second count was conducted when it became clear the final phase would pit the Greens against Labor. This count has not been completed. Loading Bandt achieved one of the greatest victories for the Greens when he won Melbourne from Labor in 2010 and became the first of his party to win a seat in the House of Representatives at a full federal election, beginning a period of growth that led to three other Greens MPs joining him in 2022.

His likely defeat is a devastating blow for the party after the loss of Greens housing spokesman Max Chandler-Mather in the Queensland seat of Griffith on Saturday night and the defeat of Greens MP Stephen Bates in the neighbouring seat of Brisbane. The outcome may leave a sole Greens member, Elizabeth Watson-Brown, in the lower house, but she is also in danger of losing her Brisbane seat of Ryan. The party will maintain its strong presence in the Senate, however, with the election results likely to make the Greens even more important because they will hold the balance of power in their own right in the upper house. The government will be able to pass legislation with support from the Greens, without requiring support from other crossbenchers or the Coalition. Labor could overcome objections from the Greens on any law, however, by seeking a negotiation with the Liberals and Nationals. Bandt had predicted the party would win one to four more lower house seats than the four it already held.

He pushed back on Monday when asked whether the Greens had focused too much on Australias response to the Israel-Gaza war rather than core issues like climate change. We were the only ones talking about real action on climate change and calling on the government to stop opening new coal and gas mines, he said. On Gaza, he added: We wanted to see an end to the invasion and ... an end to the bombs being dropped on children. Labor MPs said the Greens had focused too much on the Middle East with an argument that claimed the Australian government was complicit in the deaths in Gaza, something most Australians did not accept. It was just nonsense, said one Labor MP of the Greens claims about the Middle East. Regardless of what people thought should happen in Gaza, the notion of our agency in it was just wrong.
Charge d'Affaires ai of the United States in Ukraine Julie Davis stressed the importance of the US-Ukrainian Reconstruction Investment Fund during a meeting of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Foreign Policy on Tuesday, May 6.

As the US Embassy in Ukraine reports on the social network X, Davis emphasized that President Donald Trump "envisioned this partnership between our nations to show both sides commitment to lasting peace and prosperity in Ukraine."

"The Committees approval to send the bill to vote on May 8 was a key step and now it is up to the Rada to maintain the momentum," she noted.

As reported, on May 2, U.S. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce announced that Julie Davis had been appointed as the U.S. Charge d'Affaires ad interim to Ukraine. On May 5, the U.S. Embassy announced that Julie Davis had arrived in Kyiv.
Liberal deputy leader Sussan Ley has won support from three former Liberal premiers in the quest to lead the party out of its sweeping defeat, with Jeff Kennett, Nick Greiner and Barry OFarrell naming her as the best choice.

The former premiers went public with their support as another senior Liberal, former party president Shane Stone, also named Ley as the best leader to win back voters who deserted the party at the ballot box.

Liberal Party leadership candidates Angus Taylor and Sussan Ley. Credit: Eamon Gallagher, James Brickwood

Others are throwing their support behind the shadow treasurer, Angus Taylor, in a contest that threatens ongoing stability by pitting conservatives against moderates in an increasingly hostile leadership battle, with files circulated highlighting rival weaknesses.

Kennett, who was premier of Victoria from 1992 to 1999, said the Liberals had a chance to rebuild within three years if they learnt the lessons from what he called the amateurish campaign to the federal election.
On the Monday morning after the federal election, the sun rose over Spring Street and the inhabitants of this curious little village went about their business seemingly oblivious to the broader goings-on of the outside world.

Premier Jacinta Allan rose early, slipped on her favourite high-vis vest, laced up a pair of steel-capped boots and resumed the position at a Big Build construction site. Opposition Leader Brad Battin rose even earlier, drove out to Morwell and promised (yet again) to put more young people in jail.

Premier Jacinta Allan and Opposition Leader Brad Battin could absorb some lessons from the federal campaign. Credit: Various

It could have been any Monday in Victorian state politics. If the premier and opposition leader have their way, itll be hard hat and the hardman all the way from here to next Novembers state election. But, before we return to politics as usual, lets pause to reflect on a federal election result that was anything but.

Well-considered Liberal post-mortems are already lined up on this site like Rockettes. Rather than add to the growing canon, what follows is a more concise list of what to do and what not to do if the Victorian Liberal Party wants to form government again.
Washington: President Donald Trump has backtracked significantly from his pledge to sign trade deals with other countries to reduce or eliminate tariffs, saying he will instead set a price to shop in the US, which he compared to a luxury department store.

In a lengthy monologue while meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in the Oval Office, Trump complained the media kept asking him about the deals he had previously insisted he would make with world leaders whom he had said were desperate for respite from his tariffs.

US President Donald Trump backed away from his pledge to strike new trade deals with Americas trading partners. Credit: Bloomberg

Everybody wants to come and make a deal, and were working with a lot of different countries, and its all going to work out very well, he said at a cabinet meeting in April.

But on Tuesday (Wednesday AEST), the president indicated with a degree of frustration that the deals did not necessarily involve negotiation with other countries.
Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced diplomatic decisions on adopting new packages of support for Ukraine and pressure on Russia in the coming weeks.

"In general, the coming weeks should be very active for Ukraine in diplomacy. We are preparing decisions and preparing new packages of support. We are preparing new steps of pressure on Russia in order to protect our people. Im grateful to everyone who is with Ukraine," Zelenskyy said in an evening video address on Tuesday.

He reported on preparations for the first talks with new German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. "We have things with him that can economically strengthen both of our countries and provide more security for decades. We look forward to meeting. I wish him success," Zelenskyy said.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed Law No. 4368-IX on the ratification of the agreement between the governments of Ukraine and Japan on information security.

As reported on the bill card on the website of the Ukrainian parliament, the law, supported by the Verkhovna Rada on April 17, was signed by the speaker of the parliament on April 22 and sent to the head of state for signature on the same day, and on May 7 it was returned with Zelenskyy's signature.

"The document creates a legal basis for the exchange of classified information between the two countries. Such cooperation is important primarily in the context of strengthening the strategic partnership between Ukraine and Japan  especially in the context of growing global security challenges," the Verkhovna Rada's Telegram channel reported on Thursday.

Ratification of the Agreement will ensure parity of measures for the protection of classified information that may be transferred or created within the framework of interstate cooperation. "This will allow Ukrainian state bodies, enterprises and institutions that work with state secrets to effectively interact with Japanese partners - without risk to national security," the parliament noted.

As reported, the Agreement was signed on November 16, 2024 in Kyiv and creates a legal framework for the exchange, if necessary, of classified information, will contribute to ensuring parity of measures for the mutual protection of classified information that is transferred or created in the course of cooperation between Ukraine and Japan. Thus, the implementation of the provisions of the agreement will make it possible to strengthen the security and defense capability of Ukraine.

The Verkhovna Rada ratified the agreement on April 17 by 293 votes.
Ukrainians are ready for a comprehensive ceasefire for 30 days with a possible extension and the creation of a demilitarized zone on the contact line, said US President's special representative Keith Kellogg on Fox News on Tuesday.

Kellogg said that the Ukrainians are in a good position now. He explained that, from their perspective, a good position meant the Ukrainians had agreed to a comprehensive ceasefirecovering sea, air, land, and infrastructurefor a minimum of 30 days, with the possibility of extension. He stated that they are ready to implement it.

Trump's special envoy expressed the opinion that the Russians should heed the US president's promise to withdraw from the negotiations if progress is not made.

Kellogg said on Fox News that Trump was addressing both sides, but the ones who were going to suffer from the situation were not the Ukrainiansit could be the Russians, because they were not going to win the war. He added that if the Russians were winning, they would be on the west side of the Dnipro River, in Kyiv, or in Odesa, but they were not in any of those places.

Kellogg acknowledged that the peace agreement would not be ideal, while citing historical examples of the Soviet-occupied Baltic states and a divided Germany as arguments for the Ukrainian side.

Trump's special representative added that, in his opinion, after a ceasefire is established, it will be difficult for the military on both sides to resume hostilities.
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/RedCrossUkraine

The Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) in Zaporizhia took part in rescuing victims of Russian shelling.

"The Ukrainian Red Cross Society rapid response unit in Zaporizhia region, together with other rescue services, took part in eliminating the consequences of another shelling of the city. ... Together with rescuers, volunteers freed a victim from the rubble, who was handed over to an ambulance," the Ukrainian Red Cross Society reported on Facebook on Wednesday.

The volunteers also provided first aid to several victims with minor injuries and psychological assistance.

According to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, four people were injured as a result of a massive Russian drone strike on Zaporizhia. Infrastructure facilities and private residential buildings were damaged.
NEW ORLEANS - Four individuals from across the State of Louisiana were charged between April 29 and May 2, 2025 during Operation Restore Justice, a nationwide initiative to identify, track, and arrest child predators. The operation coincided with the annual nationwide observance of Child Abuse Prevention Month in April. FBI agents were joined by our partners across the country in arresting 205 subjects and rescuing 115 children during the surge of resources deployed for Operation Restore Justice.

The FBI is unwavering in its fight to protect children, said Jonathan Tapp, Special Agent in Charge of FBI New Orleans. Each arrest is a powerful testament to the tireless efforts of the FBI and our dedicated law enforcement partners to protect the most vulnerable among us. It reaffirms the FBIs commitment to pursuing justice for victims and hold predators accountable.

This joint operation signals our unrelenting effort to identify and prosecute those individuals responsible for the sexual exploitation of our nations youth, stated Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson. Together with our law enforcement partners, our office stands ready and committed to utilizing our collective resources to bring justice to both the victims and the perpetrators of these crimes.

This nationwide effort has made its way to the Western District of Louisiana and the U.S. Attorneys Office stands ready to join with the FBI and our state and local law enforcement partners to continue this investigation, said Acting U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook. These types of crimes against minor children are reprehensible and we are committed to doing what we can to get these child predators off of our streets.

Three of the subjects arrested in Louisiana were charged following a joint, undercover operation by the FBI, Alexandria Police Department and Louisiana State Police. One of those individuals faces federal charges that will be prosecuted by the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Louisiana. The other two face state charges that will be prosecuted by the Rapides Parish District Attorneys Office. The fourth subject was indicted in the Eastern District of Louisiana on five separate counts including sexual exploitation of children, distributing child sexual material (CSAM), receiving CSAM, and transmitting extortionate interstate communications (https://www.justice.gov/usao-edla/pr/justice-department-announces-results-operation-restore-justice-205-child-sex-abuse).

The FBI proactively identifies individuals involved in child sexual exploitation and the production of child sexual abuse material through our far-reaching, nationwide network of personnel and law enforcement partners. The Crimes Against Children (CAC) program provides a rapid, proactive, and comprehensive capacity to counter all threats of abuse against children. This capacity leverages partnerships within the FBI's 89 Child Exploitation Human Trafficking Task Forces (CEHTTFs) across the country. Additionally, the FBI has Intelligence Analysts assigned to address the VCAC threat, both at Headquarters and the field. The FBI also leads a Violent Crimes Against Children International Task Force which includes nearly 100 International Task Force Officers representing over 60 countries to expand our ability to address the threat worldwide.

The FBI also partners with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org. In further partnership and collaboration with NCMEC, the FBI launched the Endangered Child Alert Program (ECAP) in 2004 to identify individuals involved in the sexual abuse of children and the production of child sexual abuse material. To date, ECAP has identified 36 individuals.

###
SHREVEPORT, La. - The ArkLaTex braced for another Red Weather Alert Tuesday as more storms with heavy rain and hail pounded the area. Shreveport-Bossier was even under a tornado warning at one point.

According to the KTBS MEGA 3 Storm Team several inches of rain could fall in some areas which are already saturated. In addition to the tornado warning, a flash flood warning, and severe thunderstorm warning were in effect for much of the area.

Excessive heavy rainfall is leading to flooding of low-lying areas, rivers, creeks, and roadways like the 2000 block of Centenary Boulevard in Shreveport. Remember, turn around, don't drown.

In southwest Shreveport, a tree fell onto a vehicle and knocked down some powerlines in a Dollar General store parking lot on Walker Road.

A massive oak tree split a double-wide mobile home in half on LaLaurie Lane in south Caddo Parish. Several people and pets were inside at the time; however, no one suffered any major injuries.

Caddo Fire District No. 4 PIO John Phelan said there was one harrowing account from one of the occupants who was in a bedroom and only a feet away from being crushed when the tree crashed through the roof.

The surrounding Jersey Gold neighborhood was heavily impacted by the storm, with large limbs and tree debris scattered throughout the area. Caddo Fire District 4 personnel responded to multiple homes with reported damage but, at this time, no additional injuries have been reported.

Several roads already closed in DeSoto Parish because of fallen trees. The DeSoto Parish Sheriff's Office has reports of a tree down on Hall Road, blocking a school bus, along with a tree across Red Bluff Road between U.S. Highway 171 and McCoy Lane and a tree down on Smyrna Road blocking one lane.

A tree also fell across the southbound side of Highway 171 across from Pizza Hut. Most of the tree was removed; however, about 2 feet is still sticking in the travel lane.

In addition to the hail, residents dealt with high winds, possibly up to 60 mph gusts.

At Shreveport Regional Airport, 10 flights were delayed and 15 were canceled.

At 5 p.m. SWEPCO was reporting more than 17,000 outages. More than 10,000 are in Caddo Parish, followed by more than 2,000 in Panola County in east Texas.

When severe storms roll in, outages are likely. Click here to connect with SWEPCO and see a real-time map of outages in the area. You can also report an outage and get an update on when your power is likely to be restored.

STAY CONNECTED

It's easy to be weather-wise. Keep up with all of the very latest weather developments with the KTBS MEGA 3 Storm Team. Patrick Dennis, Brian Fowler, Caroline Castora, and Skip Kordas are always on stand-by to help you ride out the storm and keep you and your family safe. You'll also want to arm yourself with the all-new KTBS MEGA 3 Storm Team app available for Apple and Android devices. When necessary, look for LIVE coverage on KTBS.com and your KTBS+ platforms.

Also, use #ktbswx on social media to report damage, flooding or post images and video. You can also send photos and videos to pics@KTBS.com. Remember, safety first.
If you have an event you'd like to list on the site, submit it now!

Submit
Eurojust (European Union Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation) is ready to ensure the integration of the work of the International Centre for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression (ICPA) into the soon-to-be-established Russian aggression tribunal.

On Wednesday, at a press conference in Kyiv during the "United for Justice. United for Survivors" conference, Eurojust President Michael Schmid stressed that behind every investigation and every criminal case there is a person, a family and a story that deserves to be heard and acknowledged.

"Justice for these victims is a moral obligation for all of us. We know that a lot is happening in the political arena right now. The road ahead remains difficult. But while diplomacy and politics take their course, we continue to work steadily and do our part," he said.

Schmid expressed his hope that Ukraine and the Council of Europe will sign a bilateral agreement in the near future to establish a special tribunal to investigate the crime of aggression.

"At Eurojust, as many of you know, the International Centre for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression (ICPA) is laying the groundwork for this tribunal. The aim of this centre was and remains simple: to ensure that no time is wasted in preparing for the prosecution of the crime of aggression, wherever it takes place. ICPA members have worked diligently to develop a common investigation system, share evidence and coordinate their prosecution strategies," the Eurojust President said.

In this context, he continued: "The next challenge is to ensure that this work is integrated into the new tribunal. This will require a clear legal framework and robust procedures, and we stand ready to support this."

Also, according to Schmid, the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) is becoming stronger, with the key focus currently on crimes of torture, ill-treatment, and the so-called filtering practice associated with illegal detention centers.
Today, May 7, 2025, the 252 members of the College of Cardinals, 135 who are under 80 and therefore qualify to vote, will enter the Sistine Chapel in Rome, where they will be traditionally corralled out of sight and out of reach until two-thirds of their number  89 out of 133  agree on a new pope.

In simple terms, at first sight what they and we need is a Francis II, someone to take up where Jorge Mario Bergoglio left off. Someone to serve the poor, pursue peace, protect the world, touch the lives of people inside and outside the Roman Catholic Church in spontaneous gestures of goodwill and tenderness, defend migrants and confront the privileged and the populists, and keep the smile on Catholicism. And much more.

It's an impossible task even if they were agreed on a Francis profile. Theyre not, of course, because some (possibly many) want someone very different, a traditional pope of the centre rather than, as they would have it, a free spirit obsessed with the peripheries. Someone who had less of an obsession, as they would see it, with stretching traditional Catholic teaching to allow for LGBT and divorced Catholics to feel included in the tent of belonging as Francis saw the Church. Someone who would feel comfortable in a papal palace rather than in an Airbnb; someone who is at ease with people of other faiths and none; someone who wasnt ashamed to have money in his pocket and to leave more in his will than Francis financial legacy of 90. In short, a pope who was comfortable with the status quo  like Benedict XVI and John Paul II  rather than a disruptor of tradition and precedent like Francis.

While for many, as the numbers at his funeral and the tributes paid to him attested, Francis was a remarkable pope and stretching the mould of the papacy after the long, dull winter of the pontificates of John Paul and Benedict ticked most of the necessary boxes that make for a pope of the present and the future. Not that he hadnt his limitations and his failings, as were obvious even before the vultures gathered to pick over the entrails of his pontificate.

Even just days after his death, with his body hardly rested in his simple grave in the basilica of Mary Major, with just one word  Franciscus  to denote its humble occupant, a conspiracy of the great, the good, the sacked and the naive are setting out their dismal stall. And what a jolly band they are, among them a number of self-appointed papabile (cardinals regarded as likely candidates for the papacy) in Cardinal Gerhard Muller (76), Cardinal Robert Sarah (79), and Cardinal Leo Burke (88) at one end of the scale to those whose advocacy of the Latin Mass seems to trump every other possible religious perspective.

Muller had one of the highest positions in the Vatican  in charge of the Congregation for the Faith  but when Francis to international acclaim decided not to renew his appointment, he (Muller) had a hissy-fit and became a lightning conductor for (and the effective leader of) the Francis disparagers. Cardinal Sarah tried to get Pope Benedict to adopt his campaign to resurrect the ancient liturgy of the pre-Vatican II Mass. And Cardinal Burke has travelled the world saying the Latin Mass  complete with the ultra-traditional garb and a coterie of attendants  in an effort to keep alive that almost forgotten liturgy.

So to the 60,000 dollar question: who will be Pope? There is no Francis II on view, apart from a few pale shadows of Francis I but, if there was such a candidate available among the 135, I have no doubt that, despite the begrudgers, the cardinals assembled would acclaim him on the spot. After all, the gift (courtesy of Francis I) of a new springtime of renewal of our Church is not to be spurned in favour of a narrow ideological preference.

No one, apart possibly from God, knows who the next pope will be because, like the Grand National, it is impossible to predict. But, like the Grand National too, the interest is such that the media are expected to indicate the front-runners.

However, the difficulty with this conclave is that (i) Francis has appointed many new cardinals from all around the world (ii) most of them have never had anything more than a passing chat with each other over the last few days and (iii) commentators know so little about so many new cardinals that they simply cant predict who might move out of the pack after a few introductory votes.

The usual predictions based on past conclaves are of little use in predicting the outcome of this one. For instance, the handy tradition that a liberal and a conservative take turns as pope doesnt apply in this case  after all, in recent memory Benedict XVI followed John Paul II. And who can judge whos a conservative or a liberal when Francis I was accused of being both?

That said my own hope is for one of the cardinals who favoured the Vatican II reforms Francis was introducing. A lot done, yes, but a lot more to do. Francis had become, in the words of Austen Ivereigh, "the worlds peacemaker in an age of war; the worlds greatest advocate for migrants in an age of national populism; and the global symbol of dialogue and encounter in an age of testy polarisation". But apart from those key roles, the new pope will have a thousand and one other demands on his time, not least the crucial task of delivering a synodal (or peoples-centred) Church for a changing world. We need a pope who is for today and tomorrow rather than a yesterday man.

So when the expected pall of white smoke rises over the Vatican to indicate that we have a pope, I would hope that the Maltsese cardinal, Mario Grech (67), will be Gods choice. Or, if not him then maybe, the French cardinal, Jean-Marc Aveline (67).

No doubt there will be much reflection these next few days, as pen in hand, the cardinals will gaze distractedly at Michaelangelos frescoes on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, before they vote in what may well be an extended conclave.

May God be with them and in particular with the man they will place in the spotlight of the world for the rest of his life.
Yermak: Its necessary to strengthen coordination of war crimes investigations, introduce uniform standards of support for victims

Head of the Presidents of Ukraine, Andriy Yermak, calls on all those involved in the investigation of Russian crimes to strengthen the coordination of the investigation of war crimes, introduce uniform standards of support for victims, and ensure stable long-term funding for this work.

"We are not driven by revenge, but by justice. At the center of our efforts is the human being ... how war affects victims, how to ensure their participation in justice processes without re-traumatizing them," Yermak said in a video address during a conference Wednesday in Kyiv dubbed "United for Justice. United for Survivors."

According to him, the coordination center for victims (survivors) and witnesses of Russian war crimes, created under the Office of the Prosecutor General, already provides support to more than 1,500 people in nine regions of Ukraine.

"Today I call on you to take concrete action: to strengthen international coordination in the investigation of war crimes. Information exchange, joint investigation teams, mutual legal assistance. These instruments must work as a single mechanism," Yermak said, addressing the conference participants.

He also said that uniform standards of support for victims should be introduced. "A person who has lived through the horrors of war should not suffer a second time because of imperfect procedures," he said.

Thirdly, provide resources for long-term work, Yermak added, explaining that justice requires not only political will, but also stable funding, technical and expert support.

As you all know the autonomous trade measures expire on the 5th of June.
He faces charges for breaking into the governor's mansion and setting a fire that tore through the home's first floor.
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) will support, through a risk-sharing mechanism, the provision of new loans worth EUR70 million by ProCredit Bank (PCBU, Kyiv) to small and medium-sized businesses in Ukraine in key sectors of the economy, in particular in agriculture, the food industry, retail trade and logistics.

"This is the fifth portfolio risk-sharing facility that the EBRD has provided to PCBU since the start of Russias full-scale invasion, building on the success of previous instruments," the bank said.

"Up to 20% of all sub loans covered by the EBRDs guarantee will support the financing of long-term capital investments by micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), helping them to upgrade their technology and equipment in line with European Union (EU) standards under the EU4Business-EBRD Credit Line. Eligible sub borrowers will also benefit from EU-funded technical assistance and grant support," it said.

"Additional investment incentives will be available to borrowers whose assets have been destroyed, lost or relocated due to the war, as well as those that are actively involved in reintegrating veterans into the workforce. The EBRD facility will be backed by first-loss risk cover funded by the European Union under its Ukraine Investment Framework," it added.

The EBRD recalls that ProCredit Bank is a 100% subsidiary of ProCredit Holding AG and a leading SME lender in Ukraine. With EUR1.03 billion in total assets as of 2024, the bank was among the 15 largest out of 61 banks operating in Ukraine, with a market share of approximately 1.2%.
Defense Forces destroy two out of five Russian ballistic missiles, 81 out of 197 UAVs  AFU Air Force

From May 6 to May 7, the Russians attacked Ukrainian territory with five Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles, and also carried out several waves of attacks with 187 attack UAVs and other types of drone imitators, the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports.

From May 6 to May 7, the Russians attacked Ukrainian territory with five Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles, and also carried out several waves of attacks with 187 attack UAVs and other types of drone imitators, the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports.

As a result of the enemy attack, Kyiv, Sumy, Zhytomyr, Donetsk and Zaporizhia regions suffered.

The enemy air attack was repelled by aviation, anti-aircraft missile units, electronic warfare systems and mobile fire groups of the Ukrainian Defense Forces.
Merz calls on all EU countries to increase defense spending, maintain support for Ukraine

All members of the European Union must increase defense spending to fill the gap in the union's defense potential and ensure continued support for Ukraine, newly appointed German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Wednesday.

"Only in this way can we gradually close our capability gaps and collectively support Ukraine," Western media said, citing Merz's words from a press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron.

At the conference, the leaders of the countries also promised to "start a new Europe with Franco-German cooperation."

As previously reported, after the visit to Paris, the German Chancellor will travel to Warsaw. On Friday, Merz will visit Brussels, where he will meet with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

As the Tagesschau newspaper reported on Wednesday, Merz plans to visit Ukraine in the near future and is currently coordinating his visit.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier on Tuesday swore in the leader of the CDU/CSU alliance Merz as the new chancellor.

The Bundestag supported Merz's appointment as chancellor in the second round of voting. In the first round, he received only 310 votes in his support, falling short of the required majority.
Long-range drones of the State Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) on the night of Wednesday, May 7, struck two military-industrial complex plants in the Russian rear, an informed source in the SBU told Interfax-Ukraine.

"Cotton 'visited' Basalt  Russia's main defense enterprise producing weapons and ammunition for all branches of the Russian army (Krasnoarmeysk, Moscow region). Local residents counted at least seven explosions there, after which a fire broke out. Drones also hit Splav plant  the only enterprise in Russia that designs and develops multiple launch rocket systems and munitions (Tula). After the drones hit, a large fire and smoke broke out on the territory of the enterprise," the service said.

In addition, the movement of Ukrainian drones forced the Russians to introduce the Kovyor plan in Moscow region, which involves the closure of airports. This created a transport collapse. Airlines canceled hundreds of flights.

"Unlike the Russians, who are hitting residential high-rise buildings in peaceful cities, the SBU is working clearly on military facilities that help the enemy carry out armed aggression against Ukraine. Work on weakening Russia's military capabilities will continue," the source said.
Utahs ban on fluoride in public water is a simple change that raises complicated new health risks, experts say
Front from left to right: Markus Soder (CSU), Friedrich Merz (CDU) and Lars Klingbeil (SPD) present the coalition agreement [AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi]

On Tuesday afternoon, Friedrich Merz (CDU) was elected in the second round of voting and subsequently appointed as the new German Chancellor by President Frank-Walter Steinmeier (SPD).

Merz had initially failed in the first ballota unique occurrence in German post-war history. With 621 MPs present, Merz was six votes short of the required majority of 316 votes to become Chancellor: 310 MPs voted for him, 307 against him, there were three abstentions, and one vote was invalid. Nine MPs did not take part in the vote.

Merzs unexpected non-election had caused feverish nervousness in all Bundestag parties. In the end, the Bundestag parties agreed to schedule a second round of voting on the same day.

Shortly before the vote, the notoriously right-wing CDU/CSU parliamentary group leader Jens Spahn announced that a new ballot would be held with the agreement of the CDU/CSU, SPD, Green and Left Party parliamentary groups. The whole of Europe, perhaps even the whole world, was watching this election. He then thanked everyone who had made a second round of voting possible so quickly.

The role of the Left Party and the Greens as essentially right-wing parties of the state could not be clearer: in the face of a looming political crisis in Berlin, they played a key role in installing Merz and paving the way for his extreme right-wing government.

The Merz government heralds a new stage in the rightward evolution of the ruling class. It is undoubtedly the most reactionary and anti-working class government since the fall of the Nazi regime 80 years ago. Its central aim is to remove the last restraints imposed on German militarism as a result of its unprecedented crimes in the Second World War. With the adoption of war credits amounting to 1 trillion on March 18, the Bundestag has already paved the way for a massive military build-up.

The coalition government of the CDU/Christian Social Union (CSU) and the Social Democrats (SPD) will not only rearm like Hitler. It will organise a historic onslaught on social spending to finance rearmament and establish a police state to enforce it against the enormous opposition among the population. Domestically, it will also adopt the refugee policy of the fascist Alternative for Germany (AfD) and help the fascists nationalistically charged cultural policy achieve a breakthrough.

Leading members of the government, such as Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt and State Secretary for Culture Wolfram Weimer, are politically far to the right and could easily be members of the AfD. Chancellor Merz himself embodies the interests of the financial oligarchy like no other. For four years, he headed the German branch of BlackRock, the worlds largest asset manager.

The SPD, which was founded more than 150 years ago under the banner of Marxism, is now the organiser of this shift to the right as a right-wing state party. Yesterday, it announced that Boris Pistorius (SPD) will remain Minister of Defense under Merz. Pistorius personifies the new era in foreign policy ushered in by SPD Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who received a farewell at a militaristic spectacle on Monday evening. Pistorius has set himself the goal of making Germany fit for war again and preparing it for a direct war against the nuclear-armed power Russia.

Party leader Lars Klingbeil takes over as Vice-Chancellor and Finance Minister. In this role, he will ensure that the costs of horrendous military spending and escalating global trade wars are borne by the working population. He will work closely with the new SPD Labor Minister Barbel Bas, who, as a nominal party leftist, will push through the brutal cuts in close cooperation with the trade unions.

The coalition agreement signed yesterday reflects the reactionary personnel of the new government. The focus is on war policy and the comprehensive militarisation of society. The following goals, among others, are mentioned:

Dominance over Europe and a role for German imperialism as a world power

In the coalition agreement, the CDU/CSU and SPD define the entire globe as a zone of influence for German imperialism. According to the agreement, the German government is striving for an Africa policy that does justice to the strategic importance of Africa, declares that the Indo-Pacific region is of elementary interest and announces that it intends to continue to show a presence in the region. The expansion of strategic partnerships with the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean is also of particular importance. Overall, the aim is to intensify bilateral relations with the countries of the Global South and expand them into a global network.

As in the past, this global power politics means German support for genocide and war. The coalition declares the security of Israel to be a fundamental German national security interestin the midst of the genocide committed by the far-right Netanyahu regime against the Palestinian population. At the same time, it assures the Islamist forces in Syria of support in the stabilisation and economic reconstruction of the countryin order to gain geopolitical influence and deport refugees.

With regard to the war against Russia, the coalition agreement announces that military, civilian and political support for Ukraine will be substantially strengthened and reliably continued together with partners. Germany must for the first time since the end of the Second World War ... be in a position to guarantee its own security to a much greater extent. Germany will assume a leading role in the further development of the Common Security and Defense Policy (CSDP).

Militarisation of schools and universities

We are anchoring our Bundeswehr [Armed Forces] even more firmly in public life and are committed to strengthening the role of youth officers, who fulfil an important educational mission in schools, it says on page 130 in the section on Defence policy. It continues: We are committed to dismantling obstacles that impede dual-use research or civil-military research cooperation, for example. We will eliminate the deficit that exists in Germany in the area of strategic security research and advocate its promotion in the sense of a networked understanding of security.

Reintroduction of compulsory military service

We are creating a new, attractive military service that is initially based on voluntary service, explain the coalition partners. The design of this service will be based on the criteria of attractiveness, meaningfulness and contribution to the ability to grow. In doing so, the Swedish military service model is being used as a guide and the conditions for military registration and monitoring will be created this year.

Development of a war economy and massive armaments industry

The planning and procurement system will be reformed and new implementation paths will be enforced for major projects and future technologies. In particular, future technologies for the Bundeswehr are to be promoted, including satellite systems, artificial intelligence, unmanned (also combat-capable) systems, electronic warfare, cyber, software-defined defence and cloud applications as well as hypersonic systems. This requires simplified access and increased exchange with research institutions, the academic sector, start-ups and industry.

The special infrastructure fund of 500 billion is also designed to prepare for war. We are simplifying the definition of requirements and approval for military construction projects and creating exemptions in construction, environmental and public procurement law as well as in the protection and dedication of military land with a Federal Armed Forces Infrastructure Acceleration Act, it says on page 132. The concerns and infrastructure measures for overall defence are to be established as an overriding public interest and prioritised in implementation over other state tasks.

The historic rearmament and war policy will be financed by equally historic attacks on the working class. We will make a considerable contribution to consolidation in this legislative period, it says in the section on budget consolidation. The agreement only mentions a few specific measuressuch as cutting citizens benefitsbut the role model is clear: the US, where the Trump regime is ruthlessly cutting social spending in the interests of the financial oligarchy and destroying all existing social rights.

The deeply anti-worker policy of the new federal government is based on the support of all Bundestag (Federal Parliament) parties. The Greens provided the CDU/CSU and SPD with the necessary two-thirds majority in the Bundestag to pass the war credits. The Left Party backed it in the Bundesrat (Federal Council). And the trade unions are also firmly on the side of the government. They reaffirmed their loyalty to the rearmament course and worked systematically in recent weeks to isolate the wage struggles at the post office, in the public sector and at the Berlin Transport Company, and to prevent a joint all-out strike by the working class.

The broad support for militarism and social spending cuts by all Bundestag parties and trade unions shows that the struggle against fascism, war and social inequality can only be waged through the independent mobilisation of the working class. In its statement on the formation of the government, the Socialist Equality Party (SGP) therefore called for the establishment of rank-and-file committees in workplaces and neighbourhoods that will allow workers to take the fight against mass redundancies and wage cuts into their own hands and combine it with the fight against war.

The statement continues:

We counterpose the international unity of the workers to the growth of nationalism, trade war and rearmament. The war can only be stopped and social and democratic rights can only be defended if capitalism itself is abolished and replaced by a socialist society in which peoples needs, not profit interests, take centre stage. The big banks and corporations must be expropriated and placed under democratic control.
This speech was given by Andrei Ritsky, a representative of the Young Guard of Bolshevik-Leninists in Russia, at the International May Day 2025 Online Rally, held Saturday, May 3.

May Day 2025 speech given by Andrei Ritsky

I would like to extend my sincere greetings and congratulations to the other speakers and listeners gathered here today.

My comrade, Bogdan Syrotiuk, was arrested a few days before last years rally. One year later, he is still in the hands of the Ukrainian secret service, the SBU, which is trying to falsely portray him as an agent of Putins regime. In reality, comrade Bogdans crime was his consistent defense of Marxist principles, in the tradition of Lenin and Trotsky. With his arrest, the struggle for an independent policy of the working class of Russia and Ukraine against the Zelensky and Putin regimes on the basis of socialist internationalism has been declared a criminal offense and treason.

Bogdan Syrotiuk at a May 9 rally in honor of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War II

The true criminals are the Zelensky regime and its imperialist backers, which cover up the crimes of Ukrainian fascism and rehabilitate Nazi criminals. They are sending Ukrainian workers to their deaths in the interests of Western imperialism and the oligarchy.

But the policy of the Putin regime is no less reactionary. It is based on the utopian illusion that it is possible to strike a deal with imperialism. Yet any deal would only serve the interests of the oligarchy and be of a temporary character. It would do nothing to fend off the existential threat facing the working class of the former Soviet Union. With its policies and nationalist propaganda, the Putin regime is playing into the hands of imperialism and preparing a gigantic catastrophe.

This years May Day rally coincides with the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory in the war against Nazism. This victory is being exploited by Putins regime to give its reactionary invasion of Ukraine the appearance of a progressive struggle.

Red Army soldiers hoist the Soviet flag over the Reichstag in Berlin, May 2, 1945.

The defense of the Soviet Union against fascism came at an enormous price for the Soviet people. According to official estimates, the USSR lost about 27 million people. Among them were 14 million civilians and 9 million Red Army soldiers who died in combat on the front lines. 2 million died in captivity and in death camps; another 2 million died in the rear from starvation and disease.

To this must be added the enormous psychological and physical trauma suffered by those who were left disabled, survived concentration camps, and lost relatives, loved ones, friends and comrades.

None of this could be forgotten. In Soviet cinema, music, poetry, paintingeverywhere one could find reflections of the path of the masses through their enormous heroic struggle.

Today, the Kremlin is seeking to exploit the deep-rooted memory of the war to promote nationalism and sow historical confusion. The main tactic of this avalanche of propaganda is to blur the political distinction between the Soviet Union and the Russian Federation. But despite their geographical location and the generations of people who lived in both states, the USSR and the Russian Federation have entirely different class and historical origins.

Honour guard soldiers march during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which will take place at Dvortsovaya (Palace) Square on May 9 to celebrate 80 years after the Allied victory in World War II, in St. Petersburg, Russia, Tuesday, April 22, 2025. [AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky]

The Soviet Union was founded in December 1922 after the victorious Civil War, in which the working class, led by the Bolsheviks, defended the gains of the October Revolution.

By expropriating the bourgeoisie and establishing nationalized property relations and a planned economy, the Bolsheviks laid the socio-economic foundations for a socialist society. They consciously linked the construction of socialism to the victory of the world revolution. But this internationalist Marxist program was betrayed by the Stalinist bureaucracy which proclaimed the reactionary program of building socialism in one country to defend its own privileges.

The bureaucratic degeneration of the Soviet state and the Bolshevik Party culminated in the massacre of generations of revolutionaries in the Great Terror. Yet the elementary foundation of the workers state were still maintained. And despite the murder of the most outstanding representatives of Marxism, a rudimentary consciousness of the traditions of the October Revolution still persisted among the masses. It was these traditions that burst forth during the war against Nazism and ensured victory for the Soviet Union.

The Russian Federation arose from the Stalinist counterrevolution against the traditions and achievements of the October Revolution. Beginning in 1985, Mikhail Gorbachevs perestroika conclusively undermined the foundations of the degenerated workers state. In 1991, the bureaucracy liquidated the Soviet Union. From this counter-revolution emerged the oligarchic regimes of Yeltsin and then Putin. With the war in Ukraine, Putins regime is defending not the people against imperialism, but the capitalist property of the Russian oligarchy.

The only honest tribute to the immense sacrifices of the Soviet masses in the war against Nazism is to state the truth: Putin and the Russian oligarchy are enemies of the traditions of the war against Nazism. They are enemies of the interests of the Russian, the Ukrainian and the international working class.

Today, the only way to fight against imperialism is to fight for the independent mobilization of the Russian working class, together with the Ukrainian and international working class, under the banner of the October Revolution.

No to the war in Ukraine!

Unite the Russian and Ukrainian working class!

Against imperialism and bourgeois nationalism!

For the revival of the traditions of the October Revolution!

Freedom for Bogdan Syrotiuk!

Build the International Committee of the Fourth International!
The European Solidarity faction continues to discuss the Agreement on the establishment of the Ukraine-US Investment Fund, the political force's website reports.

The leader of the European Solidarity faction, MP Petro Poroshenko, and representatives of the faction met with diplomats, ambassadors extraordinary and plenipotentiary who have worked in the United States, as well as international experts and journalists.

One of the key topics of discussion was the transparency of the process of adopting strategically important documents for Ukraine and the need for broad communication with the public. European Solidarity emphasises that it was thanks to its MPs that the first public discussion of the Agreement took place at a meeting of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Foreign Policy, with more than 50 MPs and media representatives present.

The participants of the discussion stressed the importance of maintaining the strategic partnership with the United States, Washington's military assistance and cooperation with allies. At the same time, they raised a number of important issues: the absence of security guarantees for Ukraine in the text of the Agreement and possible risks to European integration.

Warnings were expressed about the haste of ratification of the document, as well as the absence of its text in the Verkhovna Rada and the opinion of the Constitutional Court of Ukraine. Opposition factions insist that the preamble of the agreement clearly states these points, and that it applies to the entire territory of Ukraine within internationally recognised borders.

European Solidarity emphasises the need for additional meetings with government representatives before the parliamentary vote to ensure maximum openness and a balanced approach to decision-making.
Flooding in Berlin, Germany after burst water main on April 30, 2025

A burst water main caused massive restrictions to the water supply in large parts of Berlin, Germany on the night of Wednesday, April 30. This incident once again highlights the ailing infrastructure in the German capital and the impact of decades of cutbacks by every government of that state.

As confirmed by Berliner Wasserbetriebe, the city water company, the entire northeast of Berlin had no water. At around midnight, a main burst at Platz der Vereinten Nationen in the Friedrichshain district. This led to a large drop in pressure in the eastern half of the city. The districts of Mitte, Friedrichshain, Lichtenberg, Prenzlauer Berg, Pankow, Weissensee, Hellersdorf, Kaulsdorf and Marzahn were affected. It was not until the early hours of the morning that the water supply was largely restored.

The surrounding streets were closed to traffic for hours due to flooding. According to the police, a main traffic artery will have to remain fully closed for several months until the completion of repair work.

According to the water company, the cause of the bursting of an 80 cm (32 inch) water main is clearly the age of the pipe, which in this case is 101 years old.

Such incidents are by no means rare. It was only on New Years Eve that one of the main drinking water mains leading from the Tegel waterworks to the city centre burst in the district of Wedding. Large quantities of water flooded the street, and as a result, hundreds of thousands of households in several districts were without water for hours.

According to the water company, on average there are around 500 burst water pipes in Berlin every year. The number is expected to rise in the coming years as more and more pipes reach a critical age and remain inadequately repaired. According to the water companies, the main and supply pipes in the approximately 19,000-kilometer network are on average nearly 60 years old.

These are just the latest incidents clearly showing how dilapidated the public infrastructure in the German capital is. For example, 120 of the 800 or so bridges in Berlin will have to be rebuilt in the next 10 years because they are no longer considered sufficiently stable. The so-called Hennigsdorf pre-stressed steel (Henningsdorfer Spannstahl) was used for around 70 of these bridges. This was also used to build the Carola Bridge in the city of Dresden, which suddenly collapsed last September.

The situation is just as bad for the roads and rails of the public transport system, not to mention schools and public buildings, some of which have been allowed to decay.

The Reinhardswald elementary school in the Kreuzberg district has been falling into disrepair for decades. Pupils and teachers have their lessons surrounded by crumbling walls with inadequate fire protection and even exposed asbestos. The condition is now so alarming that inspectors declared the school can only be operated until 2028.

According to the Senate administrations current plans, the school will then move to the building of the nearby Aziz Nesin elementary school. However, this would itself only be usable for a short time because it also has considerable structural defects.

At least 108 billion would be needed over the next 10 years to renovate and modernize Berlins public infrastructure, according to a study recently presented in Berlin by the Berlin-Brandenburg business associations, Investitionsbank Berlin (IBB) and the East German Banking Association. According to the study, this sum is needed to bring roads, railways, bridges, schools, universities, water and heating networks and much more up to date.

According to the report, 48 billion are needed for public buildings, 17 billion for local transport, 13 billion for universities, schools and daycare centers and 11 billion for state-owned water, energy and heating networks.

Deterioration of public infrastructure is the result of decades of austerity policies pursued by all establishment parties.

From 2002 to 2011, the Social Democrats (SPD) and the PDS, the predecessor of the current Left Party, pushed through a radical austerity policy that resulted in the destruction of thousands of public sector jobs. Public institutions that were not closed had their funding drastically cut.

This continued under the subsequent coalition government of the SPD and the conservative Christian Democrats (CDU) as well as from 2016 onward under the alliance of the SPD, Greens and Left Party. At the beginning of 2022, the state government adopted a double budget for 2022 and 2023, which reduced the budget from more than 40 billion to 35.7 billion. Funding cuts primarily hit the school system.

Against the backdrop of Germanys biggest rearmament since National Socialism (Nazis), the current state government of the CDU and SPD is taking the budget cuts to the extreme.

At least 660 million will be cut alone from the areas of environment and transport. This affects urgent construction projects throughout the city. In total, this austerity package amounts to 3 billion in budget cuts for this year.

Now that the first cuts are having an impact, the Senate is trying for more. A further 39 million cut for education, youth and family went into effect in April. This cut is in addition to the 370 million already announced in the education sector last December.

The coalition parties now want to use these budget cuts as a means to hand over public tasks to public companies on a large scale. Stefan Brandt, board member of the state-owned investment bank IBB, appealed to the state government to collect funds from private investors and secure them publicly.

The governments coalition agreement mentions that the state government is to implement various projects in so-called public-private partnerships (PPP). This means that public tasks are handed over to private enterprises, which can skim off the profits without any entrepreneurial risk. In the event of additional expenses or a possible failure of the project, the public sector assumes the costs.

All parties unreservedly support this outsourcing of public functions. In Berlin, in particular, the SPD and the Left Party already implemented numerous projects of this kind. Most recently, in 2023, the SPD-Left-Green Senate decided to implement the construction of a childrens hospital at the flagship Charite medical center as a PPP.

In March, the CDU invited representatives from the private construction company Max Bogl to the transport committee of the House of Representatives as part of a hearing on infrastructure and bridge safety to give a presentation on the construction of modular bridges.

While more and more money in Germany is being spent on armaments and war preparations, the basic needs of the vast majority of the population are being completely ignored. Secure infrastructure, adequate housing, quality education and healthcare are considered unaffordable.

For this reason, all parties support the rearmament of state security forces in order to suppress any opposition to these policies. It is no coincidence that the budget for the police and security authorities is the only one in the Berlin state budget that has not been cut, but increased.
Restraints lie on the tarmac as personal belongings of immigrants who entered the United States are loaded onto a plane for a deportation flight to El Salvador by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. [AP Photo/David J. Phillip]

Multiple reports in recent days indicate that the Trump administration is attempting to deport immigrants and refugees in the United States to distant countries where they are not citizenssome of which are currently embroiled in active armed conflicts.

Over the past week, the Wall Street Journal, CBS News, New York Times and the Washington Post have reported that the Trump administration has been engaged in ongoing talks, some dating back to January, with multiple governments about accepting deportees from the United States.

Under the proposed agreements, the US government would offer cash payments or political concessions to governments in exchange for accepting deported immigrants. These individuals would be expelled to distant countries with which they or their families have no prior connection and to which they never intended to immigrate.

One of the central grievances that led to the American Revolution was the British Crowns practice of transporting colonists to England or other colonies for trial and punishment, thereby denying them the right to be tried by local juries and courts.

This denial of basic due process was cited in the Declaration of Independence as one of the formal charges against King George III: For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences. 

In his speech and practice, Trump has made clear he considers himself unbound by the Constitution and that all basic democratic rights are null and void.

Some deportations have already taken place. Last month, independent journalist Marisa Kabas reported on a series of US State Department cables from the American Embassy in Kigali, Rwanda, which confirmed that the US government had deported Omar Abdulsattar Ameen, an Iraqi national, to Rwanda after Ameen stated that he feared persecution if returned to Iraq.

Ameen and his family fled Iraq for Turkey in 2012. In 2014, they were granted refugee status in the United States. Four years later, in 2018, the Trump administration initiated deportation proceedings against Ameen, falsely accusing him of being a high-ranking member of ISIS.

Ameen was arrested, incarcerated and faced deportation until a judge ruled in 2021 that the allegations against him were simply not plausible. However, after his release, the Biden administration re-arrested him and renewed deportation proceedings under the false pretense that he had lied about being a terrorist.

On April 4, Ameen, against his will, was forcibly deported to Rwanda. According to journalist Marisa Kabas, a US State Department cable dated April 22 revealed that the Rwandan government had requested policy concessions and a one-time payment of $100,000 to cover social services, residency documents and work permits. The payment was made, and the cable indicated that Rwanda was willing to accept another ten TCNs [third-country nationals] of various nationalities.

According to the cable, Rwandas primary motivation for accepting Ameen and others was to improve U.S. relations and show it can advance the America First agenda.

On Tuesday, the New York Times reported that the Trump administration is implementing plans this week to deport migrants to Libya. A flight could leave as soon as Wednesday, the newspaper reported, citing unnamed US officials.

Libya has descended into war and sectarian conflict since the 2011 NATO war destroyed the countrys government and society. The most horrific conditions of torture and abuse prevail. The Times cites the State Departments own report, which refers to harsh and life-threatening conditions detention centers, where migrants have no access to immigration courts or due process.

Earlier, the Washington Post reported that following the inauguration, the Trump administration urged the Zelensky regime to accept deportees from the United States. The lawless and criminal Ukrainian government, backed by the US-NATO alliance, has canceled elections, imposed martial law and banned all left-wing and socialist organizations, including the World Socialist Web Site.

For over one year, the Zelensky regime has imprisoned Bogdan Syrotiuk, a 26-year-old Trotskyist, on bogus charges of treason for his public opposition to the ongoing proxy war.

The Trump administration is already illegally kidnapping and deporting immigrants, legal residents and even US citizens to nearby countries in Latin America, including Costa Rica, Panama and Honduras.

In March, nearly 300 men, including Kilmar Abrego Garcia and Andry Hernandez Romero, were banished to the Terrorism Confinement Center, a notorious mega-prison and torture complex in El Salvador. Nearly two months after their deportationmany under the pretext of the Alien Enemies Actthe US government has yet to release a full list of those who were removed.

On Sunday, CBS News reported that the US government is in negotiations with Angola and Equatorial Guinea. The Wall Street Journal and other outlets previously reported that the administration had also contacted Benin, Eswatini, Libya, Moldova and Rwanda.

While an Angolan government spokesperson issued a statement on Monday denying that the country is accepting deported individuals of other nationalities, Rwandas Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe confirmed to the Associated Press that his government is in discussions with the US about hosting exiled immigrants and refugees.

Nduhungirehe told the Associated Press that discussions between the US and Rwanda were underway, after previously telling state media that the plans were still in the early stage.

This is not the first time Rwanda has been proposed by a major imperialist power as a penal colony for immigrants and refugees fleeing their home countries. In 2022, thenBritish Prime Minister Boris Johnson unveiled the Rwanda asylum plan, under which asylum seekers would be deported to the African nation. The policy was continued by his successor, Rishi Sunak.

However, upon taking office in July 2024, Prime Minister Keir Starmer scrapped the plan, arguing that the funds would be better spent deporting asylum seekers directly to their home countries.

However, in November, the Labour government announced a similar Rwanda plan proposal, under which immigrants arriving in the Chagos Islands would be deported to the remote island of St. Helena in the South Atlantic.
Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader Friedrich Merz was only elected German chancellor in the second round of voting on Tuesdayand only thanks to the help of the Left Party and the Greens. Merz had failed in the first round of voting because only 310 of the 328 members of the Bundestag from the governing coalition of the CDU/Christian Social Union (CSU) and Social Democrats (SPD) voted for him. To be elected chancellor, Merz required at least 316 votes, the majority of all parliamentary deputies.

This was unprecedented in the history of the Federal Republic of Germany. So far, all chancellors have been elected in the first round of voting. But although the CDU, CSU and SPD agreed after weeks of negotiations on a 144-page coalition agreement, which was passed by the relevant party committees, Merz did not manage to unite the necessary number of deputies behind him.

In order for the second round of voting to take place on the same day, Merz had to rely on the support of the Left Party and the Greens. Both were determined to help him into office as quickly as possible so that he could stabilise the situation and implement the right-wing coalition programme.

In front of a photo of the former German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer, CDU Chairman Friedrich Merz addresses the media in Berlin, Germany after the state elections in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia. [AP Photo/AP]

The Bundestags (Federal Parliament) procedural rules stipulate a deadline of three days for the second round of voting, which can only be shortened by a two-thirds majority. The Left Party and the Greens, together with the governing parties, tabled a motion to this effect, which the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) also agreed to in the end. In the second round of voting, 325 deputies voted for Merz, who was sworn in as federal chancellor in the evening.

The Merz governments false start provides an unsparing exposure of the real political situation in Germany. His government is not only the most right-wing but also the most unpopular since the Second World War.

At the heart of the coalition agreement is the most comprehensive rearmament program since Hitler, a fundamental turnaround in migration policy in the spirit of the AfD, the establishment of a police state and massive social spending cuts that will shift the costs of war and trade war onto the working population.

This program has no support among the population. In the Bundestag elections, the CDU/CSU achieved the second worst result in its history and the SPD the worst. Together they only received 45 percent of the vote and have since lost a further 7 percent in the polls. According to a survey by the Forschungsgruppe Wahlen, only 38 percent welcome the election of Merz as chancellor, while 56 percent oppose it.

However, this opposition is not reflected in official politics. At every opportunity, the AfD offers Merz the chance to implement his right-wing program together with them instead of the SPD. The parliamentary secretary of the AfD, Bernd Baumann, justified its approval of the early second round of voting with the words: Germany needs a government.

The nominally left-wing opposition parties made their support for Merz and his reactionary program even clearer. As soon as the election debacle became apparentand share prices began to fallthey forgot their occasional criticisms of Merz and rushed to his aid.

A commentary that appeared on Zeit Online shortly after the first round of voting summed up the attitude of this milieu:

The world order is tottering, and Germany is still without a government. That is quite simply fatal.

Green politician Renate Kunast described the weakening of Merz as a thunderbolt for the whole country. Katrin Goring-Eckardt wrote: This is not good. Even though she does not support the chancellor, she could only warn everyone against being happy about chaos.

Britta Hasselmann, parliamentary group leader of the Greens, regretted that trust in Merz and Klingbeil has been shaken. The worst thing that could happen to this country now would be new elections, she commented. Her colleague Katharina Droge added: Germany needs a stable government.

Nothing else could have been expected from the Greens. In Olaf Scholzs government, they were the strongest supporters of military armament, the war against Russia and the genocide against the Palestinians. The only reason they are not part of the new government is because they are not needed for a majority. Outgoing Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock had a visibly good-humoured chat in the Bundestag with her successor, CDU politician Johann Wadephul. She herself will represent the new government at the UN in New York, where she will chair the General Assembly for a year.

The Left Party, which voted for the CDU and SPDs war credits in the Bundesrat (Federal Council, the upper house) in March, also reacted with visible concern to Merzs election defeat. Party leader Jan van Aken gave him helpful advice. If Merz does not even get the trust of his own people, van Aken said:

[H]ow is he supposed to win the trust of people who are struggling with the real problems of everyday life?

Co-chair Ines Schwerdtner explained: It is now up to the CDU whether they dare to talk to us.

The former Minister President of Thuringia, Bodo Ramelow, now Vice President of the Bundestag, was quite angry about the election debacle. The party leaders of the planned coalition should have ensured that such a scandal did not occur, he criticised. Ramelow was one of the first to suggest an immediate second round of voting to help Merz out of his predicament. As the Left Party, we will also help to ensure that the two-thirds majority is achieved, he said.

The important role played by the Left Party in Merzs election as chancellor was also recognised by Der Spiegel. One of six lessons that the news magazine draws from Merzs stumbling start is:

It wont be the last time that the CDU/SPD coalition will have to rely on the approval of Heidi Reichinneks party. Merz now has reason to seriously consider overturning the ban on cooperation with the Left Party. It is no longer in keeping with the times.

The new, ultra-right Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) took a similar view. He said:

Today it was relatively clear that if we want a two-thirds majority, we have to give the Left Party a call. ... Where two-thirds majorities are needed, we will have to do so again in the future, regardless of whether the political colouration suits us in any given case.

It is not known which 18 deputies from the governing parties refused to vote for Merz in the first round of voting and what their reasons were. The vote is secret. However, it is clear that the Merz government is extremely weak and internally divided.

Broad sections of the working class and youth will inevitably come into conflict with it when it militarises society, reintroduces compulsory military service, suppresses political opponents, cuts social spending and wages and cuts tens of thousands of jobs in the escalating trade war.

This resistance can only be successful if it is also directed against the Left Party, which is not an opposition but a left-wing fig leaf for the Merz government. It must oppose the governments nationalist migration policy with the international unity of all workers and combine the rejection of war and militarism with the fight for the expropriation of the super-rich, whose interests are represented by the former head of BlackRock Germany and his government.
A group of Tamil Progressive Alliance (TPA) leaders, including MP Mano Ganesan, met with the European Unions Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) Monitoring Delegation in Colombo last week. The alliance wants the delegation to pressure the Sri Lankan government to grant limited democratic and human rights measures, as part of the continuation of the GSP+, which expires next year.

Mano Ganesan [Photo: Mano Ganesan]

GSP+ is preferential trade access offered by the European Union (EU) to various countries in which tariffs for eligible exports are zeroed. The GSP+ concession was awarded to Sri Lanka after the 2004 Asian tsunami. Last weeks visit to Colombo by the EU delegation was to assess whether this concession would be continued.

Sri Lanka exports a range of finished productsgarments, tea and rubberto the EU, earning $2.9 billion in exports in 2024. Any future loss of GSP+ tariff concessions, combined with new tariff increases by the US, would be a huge blow to Sri Lankas export earnings. It would not only worsen the countrys existing economic plight, but see the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna/National People Power (JVP/NPP) government intensify its attacks on the entire working class.

The TPA is a Tamil bourgeois political formation made up of three Tamil-speaking plantation worker unionsthe Democratic Workers Congress, the National Workers Union, and the Up-country People Front. It was formed in 2015 to divide plantation workers from other sections of the Sri Lankan working class.

The TPA describes hill-country plantation workers as Malaiyaha Tamil and demands that they be considered a separate ethnic community with a separate administrative region.

These divisive demands have nothing to do with defending the jobs, wages and working conditions of estate workers but are to bolster the political positions and privileges of the Tamil elite in the plantation areas. Other Sri Lankan plantation unions are also promoting this reactionary and divisive policy.

The TPA and all the other plantation trade unions are pro-capitalist and pro-imperialist organisations. They do not stand for the interests of the estate workers but defend the capitalist state and the plantation companies.

The TPA wants the EU delegation to demand that the JVP/NPP government of President Anura Dissanayake immediately suspend the Prevention of Terrorism Act and revive constitutional reform measures for a power-sharing deal to the Tamil elites. It also wants the establishment of a Truth Commission and Accountability Mechanism, the release of all long-term Tamil political prisoners, and the inclusion of the Hill Country Tamil Plantation Community in GSP+ arrangements.

In submitting these proposals, the TPA is not concerned about the democratic and social rights of estate workers but the financial difficulties facing the plantation companies and the Sri Lankan government if they lose GSP+ tariff concessions.

At the same time, the TPA wants to develop a relationship with the EU, hoping to secure privileges for the Tamil elite in the plantation areas, in return for supporting the geopolitical agenda of the European imperialist powers, and promoting them as crusaders for human rights.

As a statement issued by the TPA declared, The EUs role is now more vital than ever and it is the final international partner capable of holding Sri Lanka accountable.

Appeals to EU imperialism are a reactionary deadend. Contrary to the TPAs claims, the EU is notorious for its systematic assaults on the democratic and social rights of its own working class, as well as brutal attacks on migrants and on workers and youth who oppose the Israeli genocide in Gaza.

Under its April 2024 migration pact, EU members are strengthening their anti-refugee and anti-migrant measures, imposing even more repressive measures against workers while boosting military spending to unprecedented levels. While the EU has previously made limited criticisms of human rights violations in Sri Lanka, it hopes to use GSP+ as a lever to boost its political influence over Colombo.

For its part, the TPA bureaucracy and every other plantation union, including the Ceylon Workers Congress, National Estate Workers Union and the All-Ceylon Estate Workers Union, are completely silent over the attacks by plantation companies on estate workers social conditions and democratic rights.

Estate workers, who are paid a meagre daily wage of just 1,350 rupees ($US4.51), are among the poorest and most oppressed sections of the Sri Lankan working class. They face backbreaking working conditions, overcrowded accommodation in more than 100-year-old line rooms, and substandard health and education facilities.

The terrible plight of estate workers and the worsening conditions facing all other workers is the direct responsibility of the TPA and the rest of the trade union bureaucracies. Working hand-in-glove with the plantation companies and successive Sri Lankan governments, the unions are intensifying the exploitation of plantation workers and actively suppressing their struggles.



In March 2021, 38 workers from Alton Estate in Maskeliya who went on strike for a wage increase and against management harassment were sacked and arrested on trumped-up allegations of physically attacking an estate manager and an assistant manager. The witch hunt, which was carried out by management and the police with the support of plantation unions, has dragged on for more than four years.



The Horana plantation company, which owns Alton Estate, rejects any reinstatement of these workers, and the trade unions refuse to organise any struggle to win back their jobs and end the witch hunt.

Since the end of the 26-year brutal racist war against the separatist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in 2009, successive Colombo governments have falsely promised to abolish the Prevention of Terrorism Act, release Tamil political prisoners, and establish a truth commission in response to criticisms from human rights organisations and the UN.

During last weeks visit, the EU delegation praised the Dissanayake government for its renewed commitment to international conventions. GSP+ Monitoring Mission chief Charles Whiteley declared it was positively considering the GSP+ review in light of recent progress, claiming that Sri Lankas renewed commitment to international conventions, transparency, and rule of law is encouraging. The European Union remains a partner in this path to responsible growth.

Contrary to these false claims, the JVP/NPP government has abandoned its election promises, including the abolition of the Prevention of Terrorism Act and other repressive laws, the release of political prisoners and other pledges.

Dissanayake is pushing ahead with the implementation of the entire austerity program dictated by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), promising to impose law and order and the national security.

Translated into plain language, establishing law and order and the national security means the unrestrained use of existing repressive laws and executive presidential powers to suppress all working-class opposition to the IMF program.

Sri Lankan workers cannot wait in the hope that the trade union bureaucracy will do something to defend their jobs and social rights. This is an illusion. The working class must break from the trade unions and all capitalist parties and take the struggle to defend their jobs, wages and basic democratic rights into its own hands.

Union bureaucrats are responsible for the present situation confronting plantation workers. This is demonstrated by the active participation of the trade unions in the management and police witch hunt of the Alton Estate workers.

Recognising that the union bureaucracies are their class enemies, workers must form their own independent action committees in the plantations, factories, workplaces and neighbourhoods to defend their interests.

The struggle against all government and company attacks must be organised through these action committees as an independent political movement of the working class.

In opposition to the divisive politics promoted by TPA leaders, a united movement of workersSinhala, Tamil and Muslim alikeis absolutely necessary.

Such a movement needs to fight for a workers and peasants government that puts an end to the capitalist profit system and implements socialist policies, including the nationalisation of major banks, factories, and plantations, placing them under working-class control.
The New York University campus in New York City, on December 16, 2021. [AP Photo/Seth Wenig]

In the most recent blatant attack on basic democratic rights on university campuses, New York University School of Law has barred 31 pro-Palestinian law students from accessing campus facilities. The university is demanding that the students sign a contract affirming that they will not participate in any protest activity or disruptive activity on Law School property in order to return to campus for final examinations.

All 31 students have been deemed personae non grata (PNG) by the university for their participation in protest actions on campus against NYUs attacks on pro-Palestinian student demonstrators.

On March 4, law students, members of NYUs chapter of Law Students for Justice in Palestine (LSJP), staged an eight-hour sit-in outside NYU President Linda Mills office in the universitys Bobst Library. The students were protesting NYUs suspension of 13 undergraduate studentsand issuing of PNGs to several more studentsfor participation in pro-Palestinian demonstrations in December of last year.

After months of stonewalling by the NYU administration, the law students staged their protest action demanding a meeting with Mills to discuss the universitys attacks on student protesters, its position on attacks on immigrants by the Trump administration and its investments in companies with ties to Israel.

Later that day, 28 law students who had allegedly participated in the protest action received an email from Craig Jolley, the associate dean of students at NYU, informing them that the protest violated university conduct policy and they had been referred to NYU School of Laws executive committee for formal disciplinary review. Students were prohibited from accessing the vast majority of university facilities, including residences, health services and religious centers. Exceptions were eventually made for housing, healthcare and other necessities; however, students have reported encountering significant difficulties and delays in accessing these critical services.

On April 28, another group of law students met with NYU Law School Dean Troy McKenzie to demand explanations for the issuing of PNG status to their fellow students. Following the meeting, in which students reported receiving absolutely nothing from McKenzie, a small group of law students staged a peaceful sit-in outside of McKenzies office on April 29.

Two days later, three of those law students received PNG notices and were informed that they were being investigated for particularly egregious conduct.

All 31 PNG students received an email on April 30 informing them that their restrictions to accessing campus facilities and services would continue unless they signed a Use of Space agreement allowing access to academic buildings in exchange for a commitment not to participate in protests at the law school. As of this writing, no student has signed the contract.

These restrictions will greatly impact students academic records. Final examinations, which count for 100 percent of a students final grade, began on Monday. All PNG law students are restricted from entering university buildings in which the exams are being held.

Additionally, the restrictions will have a significant effect not simply on students careers, but most importantly on numerous legal cases. According to the students, around half of those with campus access restrictions also had clinical responsibilities that were being impeded by the restrictions. These students often serve as primary legal representatives for clients in cases related to deportation defense, civil rights lawsuits and other public service issues.

One law student who was declared PNG in March told The Intercept that some students pro bono legal work is carried out in a building now restricted unless they sign the Use of Space agreement. Not being able to put our full energy and do client meetings, said the student, as an official legal services provider is not only impeding our ability to comply with our professional responsibilities as legal representatives but also putting our clients lives at risk.

In a statement, echoing the statements made by the Democratic Biden administration in its crackdown last year on anti-genocide protests, Shonna Keogan, a spokesperson for NYU Law School and an assistant dean, said, Protest activity, while permitted, is subject to time, place, and manner restrictions, and must not interfere with the educational activities of other community members or school operations.

The school explicitly outlines sit-ins as permitted, a student told The Intercept. But as soon as they dont like the sit-in or protest happening, they tell people to stop and, when they dont, they then hand people policies on failure to comply with orders. So, in essence they are communicating that they can immediately make any protest they want a violation of the rules based on whether they are amenable to the content.

NYU students in multiple news reports have pointed to past protest actions that met with no repressive response from university administrators, in particular a Black Lives Matter die-in protest and a climate-focused sit-in protest staged inside Bobst library in 2015.

When it comes to dealing with opposition to the war machinations of American imperialism, however, the response of NYU has been particularly repressive. Since the beginning of Israels genocide and eruption of mass protests against the slaughter, the universityrun by administrators closely tied to the military-intelligence apparatus, Wall Street and the Democratic and Republican partieshas overseen the harassment, suspension, expulsion and arrest of numerous students and faculty.

NYU has retained the law firm Latham & Watkins to assist in the investigation of the PNG students. Latham & Watkins is one of several major US law firms that have bent the knee to President Donald Trump, pledging to provide around $125 million in pro bono legal services to the administration.

The university, one of the largest private universities in the US, is one of several major academic institutions complying with the fascistic policies of the Trump administration.

In February, NYU responded to Trumps executive order preparing for mass deportations of anti-war, left-wing international students by declaring that it would comply with the law.

The administration made clear that it would do nothing to prevent the arrest and detention of immigrants or international students by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials. NYUs Langone Health System, in response to the fascistic policy of the Trump administration to deploy ICE to kidnap thousands of undocumented immigrants every day, instructed its employees not to shield patients from arrest.

NYU Langone also canceled appointments for transgender children under Trumps executive order threatening to withhold federal funds from hospitals that provide gender-affirming treatments.

NYUs actions against democratic rights are not a result of mistaken policies that have appeared out of thin air. They are the product of the development of academia over the last 50 years. The American state and military-intelligence apparatus have embedded themselves deeply at NYU and other major universities.

The universitys Board of Trustees comprises a collection of multi-millionaires and billionaires with deep ties to Wall Street and one or both corporate-controlled political parties. For decades, NYU has functioned as a critical component of military recruitment, domestic surveillance and censorship and technological and ideological preparations for world war.

The repressive, reactionary policies being implemented on the university campuses reflect the broader assault by the ruling class in the US and internationally on all basic democratic, social and economic rights of the working class.

Driven by an ever-intensifying economic crisis, significant sections of the corporate and financial oligarchy have turned to the most right-wing political forces to escalate imperialist war abroad, strip all obstacles to the accumulation of vast private wealth and crush any resistance to war, inequality, exploitation and destruction of democratic rights.

The escalating attacks on basic democratic rights are continuing to provoke mass opposition among students, youth and workers. At NYU, nearly 400 students, faculty, alumni and other community members have signed an open letter reiterating demands for NYU Law to clarify its suspension policies, expunge students disciplinary records, divest from weapons manufacturers with ties to Israels genocide and fire Latham & Watkins. According to Washington Square News (WSN), over 150 people have sent emails to the law school calling on NYU to immediately drop all sanctions against students.

Mass protests that took place last month, involving millions of people across the US and internationally, revealed the tremendous opposition to the Trump administration that is developing across the globe. Strikes and protest actions among critical sections of workers are growing internationally.

The working class is the only force capable of putting an end to war, genocide and the destruction of democratic rights. Students and youth seeking to build a mass movement against conditions that exist must educate themselves in the history of the class struggle and of the socialist, Trotskyist movement and work to mobilize this revolutionary social force in a socialist and internationalist movement of the working class against capitalism.

All students and youth who agree with this perspective should join the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE).
Defiant Life (2025), the latest collaboration between pianist Vijay Iyer and trumpeter Wadada Leo Smith, is a subtle and moving meditation on steadfastness in the face of violent oppression. This music, which falls between free improvisation and fixed composition, is the jazz artists conscious response to Israels ongoing campaign of genocide against the Palestinians. To their credit, Iyer and Smith have attempted to give musical expression to questions of burning contemporary urgency, while capturing the enduring human desire for liberation.

Defiant Life

Iyer, born in 1971, has been composing and recording music since the mid-1990s. He has collaborated with veteran avant-garde jazz musicians such as Andrew Cyrille and Reggie Workman, as well as younger jazz (e.g., Linda May Han Oh) and hip-hop (e.g., Das Racist) artists. Social and political themes are not new to Iyer; his compositions have addressed topics such as surveillance after the September 11 attacks (In What Language, 2003) and the Flint, Michigan water crisis (Song for Flint, 2019).

During his long career, Smith, born in 1941, has collaborated with noted avant-garde musicians such as saxophonists Anthony Braxton and Henry Threadgill and guitarist Henry Kaiser. Smith has often dealt with African American history in works like Ten Freedom Summers (2012), which was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Music. He adopted the name Wadada when he became a Rastafarian in the mid-1980s. Originally from Mississippi, he is now based in New Haven, Connecticut, where he has encouraged the local music scene.

Iyer and Smith have been playing together on and off for at least 20 years. Their first album as a duo was A Cosmic Rhythm with Each Stroke (2016). Having decided that it was time for another collaboration, the two met in Lugano, Switzerland, to record an album. While there, the musicians could not help but talk about the genocide. How do you live on in the face of this? Iyer asked NPR. The music that resulted from their discussions is meant to express the theme of defiance, not only through martyrdom, but also through survival in the face of adversity, he added.

Each musician brought one composition to the recording sessions, which lasted for two days. These two pieces became tentpoles for the whole project, according to Iyer. They informed everything else that was in this suite of music, he added.

Kite (for Refaat Alareer) is Iyers contribution. Its title alludes to the Palestinian poet who was murdered by a targeted Israeli airstrike in December 2023. A kite is the central image of Alareers final poem If I Must Die, which was shared around the world after Alareers murder.

Vijay Iyer

The piece begins with a low, quiet Fender Rhodes electric piano, which Iyer plays with tremolo. Smiths trumpet enters, offering a brief phrase. Throughout the album, Smiths playing recalls the tremulous style of latter-day Miles Davis. Smith answers his first phrase, then repeats the answer, modulating it downward. Iyer then introduces new chords that move in unexpected directions. The mood lightens, and Smiths trumpet reaches gently, modestly upward. His tone becomes surer, and he hits a sustained high note before laying out. Iyers final high chords chime like a music box. The song evokes the conjuring of a new life out of the rubble.

Floating River Requiem (for Patrice Lumumba) is the composition that Smith brought to the recording sessions. Lumumba led the Congos struggle against Belgian imperialism and became the newly independent states first prime minister. Independence remained hollow, not genuine. Less than seven months after its proclamation, Lumumba was assassinated on the orders of the Belgian government and of US President Dwight Eisenhower. Though Lumumba was a man of remarkable bravery and principle, his nationalism and his orientation toward the Congolese bourgeoisie would have rendered him incapable of establishing democracy and equality in the Congo had he survived.

The song begins with Iyers low rumbles on the piano. Smith then plays a developing theme in a quavering tone, squeaking occasionally. It is as though he is speaking with effort. Several times, Smith plays the subtonic, stretching it out and making the listener itch for resolution. Iyer plays a chord-based solo with a staccato attack and occasional dissonances. Smith re-enters and again stretches out the subtonic. The song evokes defiant courage in the face of danger.

Wadada Leo Smith by Michael Jackson

The other songs were composed on the spot following preparatory discussions between Iyer and Smith. The resulting album exhibits thematic and structural unity. A brief, quiet prelude sets the scene for the music to follow. Sumud, which is Arabic for steadfastness, begins with Iyer playing electronics that produce high-pitched, sometimes dissonant, sine waves. The electronics reappear in Elegy: The Pilgrimage. The album concludes with the solemn Procession: Defiant Life. At more than 10 minutes each, these pieces are longer than the albums two centerpieces.

The music on this album is quiet overall, even tentative at times. The musicians leave space for each other and for occasional silences. Iyer echoes or comments on Smiths statements, and vice versa. But although Iyer comes to the fore during certain passages, Smith tends to dominate, which is perhaps inevitable, given his instrument. His phrases sometimes center on one note, from which he ventures a few steps in one or the other direction before returning. When he plays his trumpet with a mute, he inescapably invites stylistic comparisons with Davis. His notes sometimes sound like breath, the call of the human voice or a cry of pain.

While A Cosmic Rhythm with Each Stroke included briefer songs that Iyer described to NPR as smaller episodes, Defiant Life comprises longer songs that each incorporate shifts in tone and dynamics. It is a dialogue not only between the two musicians, but also between the free play of artistic intuition and the stricture of compositional form.

This recording session was conditioned by our ongoing sorrow and outrage over the past years cruelties, but also by our faith in human possibility, said Iyer in press materials for the album. Certainly, overtones of sorrow are evident in much of the music, especially in Elegy: The Pilgrimage. At other moments, as on Kite, the musicians express hope. Yet the album generally seems to convey mourning and fragility more than it conveys defiance. One might wish for more musical boldness. The tentative quality to the music may indicate the musicians skepticism about whether the monumental brutality of Israel and its imperialist backers can be overcome.

Nevertheless, their decision to protest the ongoing war crimes must be welcomed. Iyer and Smith have created a sensitive, evocative album that captures our current moment while speaking to enduring qualities of the human spirit.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, right, speaks with Minister of Finance Bezalel Smotrich during the weekly cabinet meeting at the Defence Ministry in Tel Aviv, Israel, January 7, 2024. [AP Photo/Ronen Zvulun]

One day after Israels cabinet voted to approve a plan for the full military occupation of Gaza, the internal displacement of its people and the takeover of food supplies by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich made clear this marked the next step in the total ethnic cleansing of Gaza.

Smotrich pledged:

Within a year, ... Gaza will be entirely destroyed, civilians will be sent to ... the south to a humanitarian zone ... and from there they will start to leave in great numbers to third countries.

This proposal for the destruction of Gaza, its military occupation and the ethnic cleansing of its population has, in fact, been the operative plan of Israels war in Gaza, which was launched using the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack and hostage taking as a pretext.

In order to provide political cover for the planned genocide, US President Joe Biden, the Democratic Party and the media claimed that Israel was waging a war against Hamas, aimed at returning the hostages, even while providing Israel with thousands of 2,000-pound bombs whose only use was to destroy entire city blocks.

In February, US President Donald Trump publicly announced the actual policy, which is the total demolition of the Gaza Strip. Israel and the US would level the site, displace its people and annex the territory.

The plan announced by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Monday, as Smotrich made clear, marks the full-scale implementation of this vision. The Palestinians in Gaza are to be rounded up, displaced into concentration camps in the south of the territory, then either forced to march across the desert into Egypt or put on ships.

This plan will be presented as a voluntary relocation, in the context of a total blockade of all food, water and electricity in the Gaza Strip. But it will be voluntary only because remaining in a place without food will be a death sentence.

Of course, this will be a death sentence for the hostages who remain in Gaza, who will die of starvation along with the remaining Palestinian population. But Israeli ministers are stating increasingly openly that the pretext of waging a war to return the hostages is being discarded.

As Smotrich told Agence France-Presse (AFP):

Israel does not intend to withdraw from territories the IDF captures, not even as part of a deal to release hostages.

In response to the plan to fully occupy the Gaza Strip, Hamas stated that it would no longer engage in negotiations with Israel.

Basem Naim, Hamass senior official, told AFP:

There is no sense in engaging in talks or considering new ceasefire proposals as long as the hunger war and extermination war continue in the Gaza Strip.

Israels plan to occupy and ethnically cleanse Gaza has been met with silence by the Democratic Party, with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, former President Joe Biden, former President Barack Obama, and former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi all remaining mute.

Israel has completely blockaded all food, water and electricity from entering Gaza since March 2, leading to a surge in malnutrition. A sack of flour, previously sold for $5, now costs as much as $500.

Israel is deliberately using starvation as a weapon of war. Last month, Israels Minister of Defense Israel Katz declared:

Israels policy is clear: No humanitarian aid will enter Gaza, and blocking this aid is one of the main pressure levers preventing Hamas from using it as a tool with the population. ... No one is currently planning to allow any humanitarian aid into Gaza, and there are no preparations to enable such aid.

Approximately 69 percent of Gaza has now either been incorporated into an Israeli buffer zone or is subject to evacuation orders, leaving the remaining population of Gaza, which has been displaced multiple times, trapped in ever smaller enclaves.

In a statement this week, the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) said that food had completely run out both in marketplaces and in distribution centers.

In its latest humanitarian update, the PRCS said, The population is once again at extreme risk of famine, and There is an inability to meet even the minimum daily needs of over a million displaced people.

In a statement, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) reported, The level of need among civilians in Gaza right now is overwhelming, and Under international humanitarian law, Israel has an obligation to use all means available to ensure that the basic needs of the civilian population under its control are met.

In a statement Tuesday, UNICEF noted:

In the past month, over 75 percent of households have reported deteriorating access to waterthey dont have enough water to drink, are unable to wash their hands when needed, and are often forced to choose between showering, cleaning, and cooking.

It added:

Malnutrition is also on the rise. More than 9,000 children have been admitted for treatment of acute malnutrition since the beginning of the year. Hundreds more children in desperate need of treatment are not able to access it due to the insecurity and displacement. Since March 18, hostilities have intensified, resulting in 390,000 people being newly displaced with nowhere safe to go.

Aya al-Skafy, a Gaza City resident, told Al Jazeera her baby died last week of malnutrition:

She was four months old and weighed 2.8kg [6.2lb]. Because of severe malnutrition, she suffered from blood acidity, liver and kidney failure, and many other complications. Her hair and nails also fell out due to malnutrition.

Mohammed al-Seikaly, another Gaza City resident, told Reuters:

There is nothing left in the Gaza Strip that has not been struck by missiles and explosive barrels. ... Im asking in front of the whole world: Whats left to bomb?
The Indian government has provocatively escalated tensions with Pakistan after the Indian military struck targets inside Pakistani-controlled Kashmir and deep inside Pakistan itself shortly after midnight on Wednesday.

Rooftop of a mosque damaged by a suspected Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan controlled Kashmir, on May 7, 2025. [AP Photo/M.D. Mughal]

The Indian defence ministry announced that nine targets had been struck but provided no details. It claimed that the attacks were focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature, targeting terrorist infrastructure and avoiding Pakistani military bases and facilities.

Without providing evidence, India has accused Pakistan of being behind the April 22 terrorist attack near Pahalgam in Indian-controlled Kashmir that killed 26 people and vowed retaliation.

The Pakistani government has flatly denied any involvement for the attack and offered a neutral investigation of the incident.

The airstrikes have deliberately inflamed one of the worlds most dangerous flashpoints for war. The two nuclear-armed countries have already fought three wars over Kashmir which both claim. Now the conflict is intertwined with the US-led preparations for war with China, which has strong ties to Pakistan. As it has escalated its confrontation with Beijing, Washington has strengthened its military ties with New Delhi as its major strategic partner in South Asia.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has condemned the airstrikes as cowardly attacks by a deceitful enemy and vowed retaliation for carrying out cowardly attacks. Pakistan has every right to give a robust response to this act of war imposed by India, and a strong response is indeed being given, he said.

Pakistan claimed to have shot down at least five Indian air force jets. Its foreign affairs ministry said that the Indian aircraft had remained in Indian airspace and used stand-off weapons to carry out the attacks. According to Al Jazeera, the Pakistani military has already commenced heavy artillery fire along the Line of Control (LoC) separating Pakistan-held Azad Kashmir and Indian-controlled Jammu and Kashmir. It claims to have destroyed an Indian infantry brigade headquarters.

Armed forces spokesman Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said Indias air force had martyred innocent civilians, which includes women and children in missile strikes near the cities of Muridke and Bahawalpur inside Pakistan, as well as in Bagh, Kotli and Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-held Kashmir. Eight people were killed, another 35 injured and two people are reported missing.

Among the dead were a child and two others who were killed in a strike on a mosque in Punjab.

The airstrikes followed nightly exchanges of small arms fire by Indian and Pakistani troops across the LoC over the past fortnight. Last nights airstrikes are the first time since 2019 that India has attacked targets inside Pakistani territory, when its warplanes hit multiple locations after blaming Islamabad for a suicide car bombing that killed at least 40 Indian paramilitary troops. Moreover, the latest attacks on Ahmadpur East and Muridke in Pakistans Punjab province are the deepest inside Pakistan since the 1971 Indo-Pakistan war.

The attempts by New Delhi to downplay the severity of todays strikes are belied by the bellicose response of Indias rightwing Hindu supremacist government headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the April 22 terrorist attack. Since then, Modi and top government leaders have repeatedly threatened not just the perpetrators, but to smite the masters of terror and the organizersa barely veiled threat against the Pakistani government and armed forces.

The Modi government has for the first time suspended its participation in the Indus Water Treaty threatening to cut off water for Pakistani towns and cities as well as agriculture. The Indus River Treaty signed in 1960 involved a complex sharing of water resources from the river system, on which Pakistan is heavily dependent, that has its ultimate source in China but flows through India.

In offhand remarks at the White House, US President Trump declared that the dangerous military escalation by India against Pakistan was a shame. He claimed to have just heard about the Indian airstrikes, adding: Theyve been fighting for a long time. I just hope it ends very quickly.

In reality, the Trump administrations close relations and strategic partnership with India has only encouraged Modi to respond aggressively against Pakistan, exploiting the April 22 terrorist attack as the pretext. According to Indian officials, national security adviser, Ajit Doval, briefed Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the airstrikes immediately after they had taken place, but the Trump administration undoubtedly knew in advance that Indian retaliation was imminent.

On April 30, Rubio met with Indias External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and denounced the horrific terrorist attack inside Indian-controlled Kashmir. While appealing to de-escalate tensions, Rubio nevertheless reaffirmed the United States commitment to cooperation with India against terrorismremarks that only encouraged, not restrained, aggressive Indian retaliation.

The decades-long rivalry between India and Pakistan is a reactionary conflict that is rooted in the catastrophic 1947 partition of the Indian subcontinent into a Muslim Pakistan and a Hindu India. Military conflict over Muslim-majority Kashmir erupted very rapidly after the Hindu ruler of the princely state opted, under pressure from New Delhi, to join with India.

Successive governments in India and Pakistan have relied on whipping up communal politics, in which the control of all Kashmir has been a key feature, as the means of dividing the working class and shoring up bourgeois rule. The ruling classes in both countries have trampled on the basic democratic rights of the Kashmiri people. Indias anti-democratic policies in Jammu and Kashmir only fuelled the eruption of an armed insurgency from 1989, that has been manipulated by Pakistan, and resulted in Indias imposition of draconian police-state measures.

Tensions have only sharpened under Modis Hindu chauvinist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) which in 2019 abolished the special, autonomous status of Jammu and Kashmir and placed it more directly under the control of Indias central government.

Far from the latest airstrikes being measured and non-escalatory, the Indian government has embarked on a reckless military campaign aimed at undermining its longstanding regional rival, Pakistan. It was summed up in a jubilant post last night on X by Rajnath Singh, Indias defence minister, Victory to Mother India.

The great danger facing the working class, not only in South Asia but internationally, is that the escalating military confrontation between the two nuclear-armed states can draw in the US and China, along with other major powers, and become the flashpoint for a catastrophic global conflict.
A Del Mar lifeguard looks over a capsized boat on the beach Monday, May 5, 2025, at Torrey Pines State beach in San Diego, California. [AP Photo/Denis Poroy]

At least three people have been killed, four injured, two taken into custody and an estimated seven additional people remain missing after a small boat capsized near Del Mar, California Monday morning, carrying a group of sixteen immigrants that included adults and children in what has been designated a mass casualty event.

The 12-foot-long panga boat capsized near the shoreline, with one bystander capturing the tragic scene on video when the boat overturned in the choppy waters around 6:30 a.m. near Torrey Pines State Beach. The occupants faced harsh conditions at sea, with lashing waves, strong winds and rain.

Numerous bystanders rushed to perform CPR to those who washed ashore. Lieutenant Nick Backouris with the San Diego Sheriffs office told the Associated Press (AP) that A doctor hiking nearby called in and said, I see people doing CPR on the beach, Im running that way.

According to the San Diego Sheriffs Department, the three people who died were adults. Two children remain among the missing. The four injured remain in the hospital and, according to the latest updates, at least one person is in critical condition.

Coast Guard spokesperson Chief Petty Officer Levi Read told local media that at least some of those on board were from India, as a number of Indian passports were found on the beach near where the panga washed up.

In an attempt to justify the tragic loss of life, which appears to be the result of the Trump administrations crackdown at the US-Mexico border, officials continue to stress that the incident is a case of suspected human smuggling. Coast Guard Petty Officer Chris Sappey told the AP they were not tourists, and they are believed to be migrants, stating that smugglers commonly use similar panga boats to move groups of immigrants.

Shawn Gibson, an agent with the US Homeland Security Investigations agency, told the USA Today that the incident was a stark reminder of the dangers posed by maritime smuggling.

The disregard for human life was also apparent in the relatively short search for the missing. In a press release Monday night, the US Coast Guard stated that: The responding assets searched for a combined nearly 28 hours, covering more than 520 square nautical miles. In plain language, the search was halted that same evening, and the announcement added together hours spent from separate searches from the Coast Guard and fire departments to come up with the figure of 28 hours.

Morbidity and mortality for immigrants attempting to reach the United States, Europe and other regions continues to skyrocket. According to the Missing Migrant Project, an international organization that records migration incidents and deaths, 74,421 migrants have died worldwide since 2014, and among them the majority 42,599 who died by drowning. The agency also notes that the most deadly route is the Central Mediterranean route, where at least 24,810 people have died since 2014.

Indeed in Europe, 2025 began with the sinking off the Tunisian coast of two refugee boats bound for Italy in the Mediterranean, in which 27 people lost their lives. According to the Spanish human rights organisation Caminando Fronteras, 2024 was the deadliest year in history for migrants trying to reach Europe. Every day an average of more than 30 people died on the journey from Africa to Spain, and the NGO counted a total of 10,457 migrants who died or disappeared at sea. Among the mass casualty events that year was the December 27 boat incident in which 69 out of 80 people drowned as the vessel capsized en route to the Canary Islands.

The group Border Angels estimates that since 1994, about 10,000 people have died in their attempts to cross the US-Mexico border, and for every body found five more are unaccounted for. An increase in deaths over the years is attributed to the implementation of increased border militarization and wall security measures that shift migrant routes to more dangerous terrain and deadly parts of the Sonoran Desert.

Last month President Donald Trump transferred control over the entire Roosevelt Reservation, a 60-foot-wide strip along the southern border from San Diego to El Paso, Texas, to the Department of Defense by declaring it a National Defense Area, meaning anyone who sets foot on it is subject to arrest by the US military.

Meanwhile, the Trump administration is carrying out mass detentions and disappearances of US citizens, legal residents, students, immigrants and asylum seekers without due process. Just last week, top policy adviser Stephen Miller confirmed that Trump plans to defy Supreme Court rulings and utilize the National Guard to carry out mass deportations.

The administrations characterization of immigrants crossing the border as an invasion has been seized to lay the basis of Trump invoking the Alien Enemies Act, and creating the framework for denying due process and deporting hundreds of people falsely claimed to be gang members and imprison them in the CECOT torture camp in El Salvador.

While Trump is carrying out unprecedented attacks on immigrants, for decades the Democrats have been at the forefront of a massive and brutal assault on immigrants that laid the foundation for the current assaults.

Among the militarizing efforts that push immigrants to seek deadlier passage routes in the deserts of the American Southwest include Operation Hold the Line in 1993, Operation Gatekeeper in 1994 and Operation Rio Grande in 1997, all of which were implemented by the administration of Bill Clinton (1993-2001), which militarized the border from San Diego to El Paso. The aims of these operations were to show force, adding miles of new fence and expanding technology to hunt and find immigrants, employing stadium lighting, infrared night-vision scopes and buried seismic motion sensors.

President Obama (2009-2017) still holds the notorious record of the most deportations of immigrants, many more than Trump, having deported 2.7 million people, earning him the epithet of Deporter-in-Chief.

Obama set up a vast network of immigrant prison camps to detain, process and deport millions. His administration established the falsely named Secure Communities Program, allowing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to cooperate with local police. Obama further expanded the bed mandate, essentially a quota system requiring ICE to hold an average of a given number of immigrants every day. Obama expanded the mandate from 28,450 to 36,000. As a result, spending on detention soared under his administration, to $2.6 billion a year, twice what it was in 2006.

Obama was also notorious for spearheading brutal crackdowns on migrants fleeing Central America. Working with US aid, Mexico set up checkpoints and conducted raids on its southern border with Guatemala to intercept refugees. This had the desired effect of axing the right to asylum, forcing migrants to go back to the very countries they were trying to escape.

Biden then upheld Trumps use of Title 42, a fascist policy to utilize COVID-19 to continue a ban on immigrants and refugees seeking asylum at the border, all while overseeing mass deportations of Latin American and Haitian immigrants.

A key aspect of the Mondays tragedy is the fact that the boat, though having traveled from Mexico, was carrying a group of Indian immigrants. According to an April 2025 report by the Migration Policy Institute, the latest figures from 2023 show that immigrants from India, China, the Philippines, Vietnam and Korea represented 67 percent of all immigrants from Asia in the United States and 20 percent of all US immigrants. According to their data, Indian immigrants represented the largest number of Asian immigrants with 19.9 percent of Asian immigrants coming from India, ahead of China with 16.7 percent.

An investigation by In These Times, titled The Treacherous Paths Out of Modis India, notes, U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency saw a record high of 63,927 Indian migrants apprehended at the southern border, more than double the number from 2021. In 2023, the number increased again, to 96,917 migrants, accounting for 3% of all migrant crossings there.

Furthermore in analyzing data from US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the investigation noted that in the year 2022, India became the third leading country of origin for successful defensive asylum seekers, after China and El Salvador, where many migrants have fled political and religious repression and gang-related instability, respectively.

Tens of thousands of farmers, workersMuslim and Christianand ethnic minorities are fleeing the brutal crackdowns and rampage against their social and democratic rights by the right-wing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of the ruling Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Among these include Sikhs and Indian peasant farmers facing political persecution after tens of thousands protested the Modi government in the face of a massive state security crackdown. This included the recent mass strikes and protests from 2024, and the previous Dilli Challo (Lets go to Delhi) 2020-2021 farmers protest against pro-agribusiness reform bills.

Modi boasted on social media following Trumps electoral victory last November that he had a great conversation with my friend and was [l]ooking forward to working closely together once again to further strengthen India-US relations across technology, defence, energy, space and several other sectors.

Also immediately following Trumps election, the BJPs Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal voiced support for Trumps plans to deport immigrants en masse, noting that New Delhi is in agreement that undocumented Indians in the US should come back.

Both Modi and Trump agree that India must play an increasing dominant role as a frontline state in Washingtons offensive against China. For its services, the US has extended strategic favours to India, including access to technology such as advanced weapons and weapon-systems, and strengthening relations as a cheap-labour US arms industry subcontractor.
The headquarters for National Public Radio (NPR) stands on North Capitol Street, April 15, 2013, in Washington. [AP Photo/Charles Dharapak]

The chief executives of National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) made statements on Sunday saying they will fight the executive order issued by President Trump on May 1 terminating federal funding for the two major public news media services.

The executive order, entitled Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Biased Media, instructs the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) Board of Directors and all executive departments and agencies to cease Federal funding for NPR and PBS, and cancel existing direct funding to the maximum extent allowed by law and shall decline to provide future funding.

The order also demands an end to indirect funding to NPR and PBS, including by ensuring that licensees and permittees of public radio and television stations, as well as any other recipients of CPB funds, do not use Federal funds for NPR and PBS.

The order, like the other decrees signed by Donald Trump during his 100-plus days in office, is aimed at intimidating and silencing any criticism, including from establishment news outlet like NPR.

Both NPR CEO Katherine Maher and PBS CEO Paula Kerger spoke on CBS News on Sunday mornings Face the Nation and opposed the unprecedented executive order as unconstitutional.

Were looking at whatever options are available to us, Maher said when asked if the radio broadcaster would file a lawsuit. She continued, I think its a little preliminary for us to be able to speak to specific strategies that we would take.

Kerger said, We have never seen a circumstance like this. This is different. Theyre coming after us on many different ways. She added, Obviously were going to be pushing back very hard, because whats at risk are our stations, our public television, our public radio stations, across the country. She also called the executive order, blatantly illegal.

Maher said the funding cuts would hit local stations and their audiences the most. NPR, which was founded in 1970 following the passage of the Public Broadcasting Act of 1967, has 246 member organizations with newsrooms in every state.

According to information published by Public Media Alliance, as of 2020 approximately 60 million Americans accessed NPR content weekly across various platforms, including radio broadcasts, podcasts and digital services.

This reach is facilitated by NPRs network of over 1,000 member and affiliate stations, ensuring that 98.5 percent of the US population resides within the listening area of a station carrying NPR programming.

Maher said the federal funding cuts would be damaging to journalists covering their local communities, especially at a time where were seeing an advance of news deserts across the nation. She added, Twenty percent of Americans dont have access to another local source of news. The impact of this could really be devastating, particularly in rural communities.

PBSs Kerger said the public television network gets 15 percent of its funding from the federal government, but some stations in small communities get 40 to 50 percent of their budgets from public funds. She said, To them, its existential.

PBS is a non-commercial, free-to-air television network that also began operations in 1970. Kerger said Trumps executive order could impact PBSs funding that comes from the Department of Education, a partnership that has supported the research, development and creation of educational childrens programming such as Sesame Street and Mister Rogers Neighborhood.

Kerger said, Half of the kids in this country are not enrolled in formal pre-K. Thats why programming for children on public television was created. Programming in development would skid to a halt, with the termination of federal funding. We work directly with preschool providers and parents, and this funds those activities, so the immediate impact would be fairly significant, she said.

The CPB, which has been instructed by the White House to cease funding of NPR and PBS, is a publicly funded, non-profit corporation created in 1967 to support public broadcasting in the US. The CPBs mission, according to a statement on its website, is to steward the federal appropriation and to ensure universal access to content and services that educate, inform, foster curiosity and promote civil discourse essential to American society.

On April 28, 2025, the CPB filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration after the president attempted to fire three of the five members of the CPBs board of directors. In a statement, Patricia Harrison, president and CEO of the CPB said, The Corporation for Public Broadcasting is not a government entity, and its board members are not government officers. Because CPB is not a federal agency subject to the Presidents authority, but rather a private corporation, we have filed a lawsuit to block these firings.

Responding to Trumps executive order, Harrison said:

Congress directly authorized and funded CPB to be a private nonprofit corporation wholly independent of the federal government. In creating CPB, Congress expressly forbade any department, agency, officer, or employee of the United States to exercise any direction, supervision, or control over educational television or radio broadcasting, or over [CPB] or any of its grantees or contractors.

Trumps assault on the CPB, NPR and PBS is part of the attempt by fascist and far-right political forces within the White House and the Republican Party to label voices of political opposition within the US as radical left-wing and communist, including those of the public radio and television networks which are generally aligned with the pro-capitalist politics of the Democratic Party.

As reported previously on the World Socialist Web Site, House Republicans, led by the QAnon conspiracy theorist and Trump mouthpiece Marjorie Taylor Greene (Republican from Georgia), staged an anticommunist hearing on March 26 entitled, Anti-American Airwaves: Holding the Heads of NPR and PBS Accountable.

Legal experts have stated that the White House does not have the authority to cut off funding to NPR and PBS. Leonard M. Niehoff, a First Amendment and media law professor at the University of Michigan Law School, told the Washington Post, Congress controls the federal purse strings and has approved a budget for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. The president does not have the power to undo that budget allocation.

David Cole, a professor at Georgetown University Law Center, referred to a 1984 case, FCC v. League of Women Voters, where the Supreme Court ruled that the government cannot condition federal funding on a stations editorial decisions. Cole told the Post, Trumps executive order appears to do the same thing here.

However, pointing to the unconstitutionality of Trumps executive orders because they usurp the power of the purse vested in Congress has not stopped the White House from proceeding with massive budget cuts and layoffs of federal employees. Meanwhile, lawsuits, emergency restraining orders and stays imposed by the federal courts and the US Supreme Court have been repeatedly ignored or openly flouted by the White House.

Characteristically, the Democrats have barely mustered a response to the attack on NPR and PBS. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin of Illinois issued a statement that warns freedom of the press will backslide with Trumps order, that it is dangerous, and implores my Republican colleagues to act to reverse the Presidents courseour democracy depends on it.
Ukraine and Lithuania have signed a memorandum on strengthening cooperation in the field of defense procurement, innovation and joint projects, the Lithuanian Defense Ministry reported.

At the Baltic Miltech Summit in Vilnius, Lithuania and Ukraine signed a memorandum to boost cooperation in defence procurement, innovation and joint projects. A bold step toward deeper cooperation, shared expertise and a more secure future for the region, the message posted on X reads.
This speech was given by Will Lehman, an autoworker at Mack Trucks in Macungie, Pennsylvania and member of the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees, at the International May Day 2025 Online Rally, held Saturday, May 3.

May Day 2025 speech given by Will Lehman

My name is Will Lehman. Im an autoworker at Mack Trucks in Macungie, Pennsylvania, and I would like to extend revolutionary greetings from workers in America to all those attending this international rally.

Workers in the US face hard truths. Wealth inequality is at all-time highs. The cost of living has soared out of control. Exploitation in factories, warehouses, hospitals, schools, docks and postal and packaging centers has only increased in recent years.

This is a process that has been occurring for decades, under both Democratic and Republican administrations. After falling support for the Democrats, the would-be Fuhrer Trump is now again in the White House. Polls indicate that hopes that some had that Trump would change the economic situation have faded considerably. Trumps trade war has only worsened the economic outlook for workers in the US.

United Auto Workers president Shawn Fain has spent months cozying up to Trump and endorsing his nationalist tariffs. It is nothing new for a union leader in the US to promote the dead-end of nationalism. For decades, the unions have pushed it without saving a single job. Nationalism is a poison for workers. It has only led to the destruction of jobs, divisions among workers, and deeper exploitation in the race to the bottom.

Shawn Fain wearing a sweatshirt with a bomber logo in a recent livestream. [Photo: UAW]

Nationalism pits worker against worker, distracting from the real class war: the war of the corporate oligarchy against the working class. For years, union bureaucrats throughout the world have told workers they must accept less to stay competitive, using fear to protect their own privileged positions as corporate lap dogs. They betray the working class with every sellout contract they enforce, every concession they demand, and every time they pit us against workers in other countries.

The tariffs will only drive workers further into poverty internationally, as we are forced to pay for them. They have already resulted in layoffs in the US auto industry, including at my plant and other Mack Trucks factories and suppliers, with over 2,000 workers losing their jobs. They will lead to increased layoffs internationally as the price of cars increase and the resulting lack of demand decreases production.

Most importantly, history shows that trade war leads to shooting war. The real aim of the tariffs is to bring enough military manufacturing to the US to carry out world war, particularly targeting China. This did not begin with Trump, but was already taking place under Biden. Workers at my own plant should recall Bidens visit in 2021, when he declared that were in a race with China. He spoke of the need for American manufactured chipsets as part of his infrastructure plan. They intend to use these chipsets in military production for war against China, not for the betterment of workers in the US.

The Democrats and Republicans seek to divide us and force us to compete with our class allies in the immensely powerful Chinese working class, with whom we share the same class interests. Just like workers in the US, Chinese workers have demonstrated an immense desire to fight in recent strikes. If we are to win in the struggles ahead, we cannot be divided from our co-workers in or from any country, but instead need to build bonds of unity that transcend national borders.

Furthermore, war with China would lead to a brutal, bloody disaster for the working class forced to fight it. More than 80-million died as a result of World War II. A Third World War with all the major powers possessing nuclear bombs would lead to the destruction of humanity.

The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln in formation during Rim of the Pacific exercises July 28, 2022. [Photo: Canadian Armed Forces photo by Cpl. Djalma Vuong-De Ramos]

The same ruling class that promotes nationalism is assaulting immigrant workers and students in the US. These attacks are aimed at eroding democratic rights won through past revolutionary struggles. The US is a nation of immigrants, with most tracing their roots abroad. The ruling class scapegoats immigrants for economic hardship to divide workers and clear the way for broader attacksincluding against native-born workers, whom Trump now calls homegrowns and threatens to send to concentration camps in El Salvador.

American workers must reconnect with our traditions of seeing an attack against one as an attack against all. We must fight for our immigrant brothers and sisters, and we must recognize that the struggle ahead cannot be won by allowing attacks against our democratic rights, regardless of where anyone was born.

We must be guided by the history of revolution in the US. When the founding fathers recognized that things could not continue in the old way under feudal monarchy, they launched a revolution that sparked revolutions around the world. Four score and seven years later, as Lincoln put it, a second revolution, the Civil War, took place, leading to the abolition of slavery.

Union soldiers in the trenches, just prior to the Second Battle of Fredericksburg in May 1863

Now, a majority of American workers recognize that we cannot continue to live in the old way. Evidence of this can be found in the recent years strike votes in the high 90 percent range. In February, workers at Rolls-Royce in Indiana voted by 99.5 percent to strike. There was not one worker in 100 among them that was against a fight.

But we need more than the will to fight, more than the recognition that things cannot continue the way they are. What we need is a political perspective based on our class interests. Those with that political perspective need to step forward to lead this fight through the building of the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees. Appeals to the existing organs of power have proven to be worthless. We need a movement that we control and that progresses the fight for our class interestsagainst capitalist exploitation, against nationalist divisions, and against war.

We will find agreement among our co-workers for the necessity of this fight, but we have to lead it. We risk the future of humanity if we fail to act, and we have everything to gain by the struggles we must lead. Join the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees and help lead this fight. Thank you.
Spreckels Sugar plant in Brawley, California. [Photo by Don Barrett / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Spreckels Sugar Company will shut down its refinery in Brawley, California according to a statement by the company. The last remaining sugar beet refinery in California will begin laying off workers in July with 26 workers, followed by another 28 in August, with the facility fully shutting down by June of next year. In total 400 workers will lose their jobs, including 100 full-time employees and 300 part-time employees.

Spreckels employee Miquel Ramirez told local news station KYMA that: It was a surprise for us, we werent ready for this. We know its going to affect a lot in the Imperial Valley, not only for us workers, but the community. Many people depend on this factory. Its not only four-hundred workers left without a job but their families as well.

The owner of Spreckels, Southern Minnesota Beet Sugar Cooperative (SMBSC) said in a statement that the refinery closure was in response to long term financial strains at the facility and pressure from competition, specifically foreign sugar imports. Built in 1947, the aging infrastructure of the plant had become expensive to maintain and modernize, with the company spending $100 million in repairs and updates in the past decade.

Issues regarding negotiations with the California Beet Growers Association may also have played a role as the company and growers failed to reach an agreement SMBSC considered viable to keep the facility open.

The closure of the refinery will have wide reaching impacts across the Imperial Valley.

Directly, the closure will destroy 400 jobs in the most impoverished county in California and that also has the highest unemployment rate. Seventeen percent of families fall below the federal poverty line and unemployment averaged 18 percent in 2024, with previous rates breaching 30 percent.

Much of the local economy relies on agriculture, with Imperial county producing $3 billion a year in agricultural products. Sugar beets are the eighth largest crop in the county with 28,000 acres under cultivation and 100,000 acre-feet of water used to irrigate them. These farms produce an average of 40 tons of sugar beet per acre that yields 14,000 lbs of sugar per acre. Direct farm sales are estimated to be worth $50 million while total economic activity from sugar beet cultivation is estimated at around $100 million.

With the closure of the sugar refinery, it is unclear how the local economy will adjust to the sudden shock. With no other refineries for hundreds of miles continued sugar beet production is unlikely. Farms could switch to alfalfa, the most common crop in the county, but the market for alfalfa is already saturated and unlikely to handle an additional 28,000 acres. Overproduction is so high that the Imperial Irrigation District offered to pay farmers to not grow alfalfa in 2024 and billboards throughout the area carry the warning Burn a bail, go to jail from local officials attempting to prevent farmers setting their own crops on fire to reduce supply.

Indirect job losses could grow by thousands as farmers either fallow their fields or switch to other crops with different labor requirements and economic impacts. Farm laborers from Mexico could lose their jobs, agricultural supply businesses may cut staff without the business of sugar beet farmers and other industries involved, like trucking, will be affected.

Sugar beet farmers could organize an effort to purchase the facility and operate it themselves. However, the Calexico Chronicle quoted Shelby Trimm, executive director of both the Imperial Valley Vegetable Growers Association and the California Beet Growers Association, as saying that SMBSC had refused any offer to sell the facility.

Southern Minnesota Beet Sugar Cooperative  have told us growers directly, said Trimm, We will never, ever sell the plant. We will only close it down. And why theyre saying that is because that sales quota to them is worth more than gold. I know that people have offered, other companies have thrown out numbers. Hey, could this company buy it? Could growers gather around together and buy the plant? They will not do that because they do not want to lose their allocation.

This is a reference to the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. The act sets a minimum price for sugar and controls sugar imports to protect local producers. Included in the act are provisions to set market allotments for US companies. The United States Department of Agriculture then sets those allotments based on historic production figures. Therefore, selling the facility could damage the market allotment provided to SMBSC by the federal government.

SMBSC is undergoing a process of consolidating production at its far more modern refinery operations in Minnesota. By keeping the decommissioned refinery in Brawley the company would likely be able to hold onto the allocations based on Spreckels historic production rates even with the refinery shuttered for the foreseeable future.

Since the announcement of the layoffs the United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 135, which represents the workers at Spreckels and 13,000 workers in San Diego and Imperial counties, has not issued a public statement on the refinery closure. KYMA reported that six Spreckels employees had traveled to meet with SMBSC to speak with management and quoted UFCW 135 President Todd Walters as saying, I am going to do everything I can to try and protect those jobs and keep them here if we can, and thats working with elected officials to help bring both sides together.

Democratic Congressman Raul Ruiz offered a similar statement, saying I urge all stakeholders to come together once again and exhaust every option to save this facility and the communities it supports.

This perspective of encouraging SMBSC and growers to renegotiate a deal to keep the refinery open is unlikely to yield results, however. SMBSCs statement on the closure claims that the refinery requires $100 million in capital investments to make the facility viable financially. These costs would ultimately have to be shifted onto the growers through the form of lower prices to cover the cost of updating the facility. These costs would then ultimately have to be borne by both field workers and the workers at Spreckels as both SMBSC and the farm owners seek to offload costs onto the working class through the depression of labor costs and the increase of prices.

This policy of begging the farm and refinery owners to negotiate is a dead end for workers. The politicians and trade union bureaucrats will not lift a finger to prevent the further impoverishment of the poorest county in California.

Refinery workers must instead turn to their allies in the broader working class, connecting with the field laborers, who are also facing the destruction of their jobs as well as with the refinery workers in Renville, Minnesota where SMBSC is concentrating production.

The Imperial Valley has a powerful tradition of labor struggles by agricultural workers. During the 1920s and 30s several mass strikes were organized to fight for better pay and working conditions, making their greatest impact with the organization of both Mexican field workers and the predominantly white warehouse and packing workers, despite efforts by farm owners to divide workers by race. It is in this social force that workers will find the power to oppose the destruction of jobs and living standards, not in appeals to various groups of capitalist owners.
McDonald's Ukraine Ltd, which is developing the McDonald's fast-food restaurant chain in Ukraine, opened its first restaurant in Mukachevo on Wednesday at 1m Lavkivska Street, which became the sixth project in cooperation with a gas station and the second in cooperation with OKKO gas station.

"During the month, McDonald's opened two restaurants in Zakarpattia at once in Uzhgorod, and now in Mukachevo. This is another step in the implementation of our long-term development strategy in Ukraine. The new establishment is located near the most densely populated district of Mukachevo on the international highway Kyiv-Chop and will be convenient for city residents and those who travel," Director of Development of McDonald's in Ukraine Vitaliy Stefurak said in the press release.

The area of the one-story restaurant is almost 500 square meters. The facility is designed for 126 seats in the hall and 132 on the terrace. There is also a 24-hour McDrive, and in two weeks it is planned to launch the McDelivery delivery service.

It is noted that the new restaurant is equipped with a generator and has a shelter for employees.

The opening of McDonald's in Mukachevo created about 70 new jobs, the director said.

The first McDonald's restaurant in Ukraine was opened on May 24, 1997 in Kyiv. Currently, 112 restaurants operate in Ukraine, another 15 restaurants are closed due to safety requirements.

According to Opendatabot, McDonald's in Ukraine in 2024 increased revenue by 30%, to UAH 16.8 billion, net profit by 23.2%, to UAH 1.6 billion.

The owner of McDonald's Ukraine Ltd is listed as MCD Europe Limited (100%, London, Great Britain).
During his inaugural visit to Poland, newly appointed German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul confirmed Germany's and Europe's support for Ukraine, Der Spiegel reported on Wednesday. During his inaugural visit to Poland, newly appointed German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul confirmed Germany's and Europe's support for Ukraine, Der Spiegel reported on Wednesday.

"Everyone in Moscow should know that we will have to be taken into account," Wadephul said on the sidelines of a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Warsaw. "Europe will defend and support Ukraine with all its means," he added.

According to the publication, Wadephul arrived in Warsaw together with his French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot, both of whom had previously held talks in Paris. Wadephul made his first foreign visit as a minister to the French capital.

On EU defence funding and a possible common debt, Wadephul said: "I think we all agree that more needs to be done to support Ukraine." There are "different ways to do that." The decisive factor is "that funds are available to support Ukraine," the foreign minister said.
Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha held a meeting with a delegation from the Atlantic Council, a leading American think tank in the field of international politics and security.

As reported on the MFA website, Sybiha informed his interlocutors about the latest diplomatic steps to achieve a just peace and the Ukrainian vision of ending the war. It is based on the inviolability of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, strengthening the defense capability of our state and increasing pressure on Moscow, in particular through additional sanctions instruments.

The minister emphasized that Ukraine had already agreed on March 11 to the US proposal to establish an unconditional and comprehensive 30-day ceasefire, but Moscow did not accept it, continued to put forward conditions and intensify terror against our state and people.

The parties discussed the situation on the battlefield, current issues on the international agenda, ways to strengthen the defense capability of our state, and the possibility of deepening the strategic partnership between Ukraine and the United States. Sybiha emphasized that the leadership of the United States and the strengthening of Ukraine will help guarantee sustainable peace, common security, and stability in the entire Euro-Atlantic space.

The Foreign Minister noted that the expansion of bilateral cooperation, in particular in the defense sector, meets the practical interests of the Ukrainian and American peoples and will bring concrete results. Thanks to its unique experience and potential, Ukraine is ready to make a tangible contribution to Euro-Atlantic security on a long-term basis.

In the context of further development of the strategic partnership between Ukraine and the United States, the parties positively assessed the signing of the intergovernmental Agreement on the establishment of the Ukrainian-American investment recovery fund.

The Minister expressed gratitude to the Atlantic Council for its consistent support of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, the Euro-Atlantic integration of our state. He separately noted the importance of exchanging opinions with leading American experts to strengthen bilateral relations between Ukraine and the United States and continue a dynamic dialogue at all levels.
Ukraine is ready for peace talks after a full ceasefire, and "some issues" will have to be discussed with Russia, said the head of the President's Office, Andriy Yermak.

"We are ready for negotiations, but only after a full ceasefire. This is the position of Ukraine, the United States and our European friends. We are not trading our independence. Our red lines are the Constitution, international law and the UN Charter," he said in an interview with Germany's Die Zeit.

He stressed that Ukraine will never recognize the occupation of its territories. "However, we are realists: we understand that some issues will have to be discussed at the negotiating table. We are ready for this - if Russia comes there too," he said.

Yermak noted that Ukraine has shown itself to be a responsible and constructive partner. "We have signed a historic agreement with the United States - this is the basis for future security through the economy. We work with all partners, and we want people to come to Ukraine - to see with their own eyes that we are holding on, that we are strong and motivated," he said.

The head of the President's Office also expressed gratitude to Germany. "We are grateful for the years of Germany's support and welcome the new Chancellor Friedrich Merz. He has been with us since the first days of the war," Yermak noted.

"Ukraine continues to fight. Because we have no other country. And we have the strength to win not only the war, but also the peace," he emphasized.
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/MerzCDU

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz plans to visit Ukraine in the near future and is currently coordinating his visit, the Tagesschau ezine wrote on Wednesday.

"[I want] to do everything possible from the European Union to ensure a lasting ceasefire after next weekend, and also so that a peace agreement can then be concluded with Russia," Merz said during his visit to Paris.

He noted that the main question now is whether Russia is ready to agree to a 30-day ceasefire.

Merz also linked the issue of German security guarantees for Ukraine with the fact that a long-term ceasefire for Ukraine could be agreed upon in advance.

The Chancellor also promised Germany's support for Ukraine even after the ceasefire, without specifying what that might mean. According to him, Russia must show that it seriously wants a longer ceasefire, and only then will it be possible to say what kind of support Ukraine needs.

He stressed that it was imperative for the United States to continue to help Ukraine and to participate in "later security guarantees for Ukraine." Merz expressed hope that the United States "will continue to fulfill its responsibilities" within NATO, as well as with respect to Ukraine.
SEABROOK  "Numbers 87, 88, and 89, your orders are ready," echoed over the PA system at Browns Lobster Pound on May 1, signaling another round of fresh seafood awaiting eager diners at the counter.

Its a familiar call  one that has been repeated tens of thousands of times over the past 75 years  carrying on a tradition that began on the first Friday of April 1950. Its the result of a journey begun by Hollis Brown and his good friend Louis Violette and set the foundation for what is now a beloved New Hampshire seafood institution.

Hollis is gone now, as is Violette, but Hollis son Bruce remembers every day since. Nearly 88, hes moving a little slower than he did that April weekend in 1950 when, at 13, he hustled beside his dad at the opening of Browns Lobster Pound.

Bruce Browns father founded Brown's Lobster Pound in 1950, when Bruce, center, was just 13 years old. He took over as owner in 1972, and now, generations of his family continue his legacy as the restaurant celebrates its 75th anniversary.

These days, Bruces sons Robert and Bruce II, along with his grandson Kaleb, do the heavy lifting, keeping the expanded footprint of Browns up and running. But whenever the elder statesmans in the house, theres no shortage of people who stop to chat.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I just want to say thank you, Merrimack resident Craig LoPiana told Bruce Brown. Weve been coming here for 45 years over three generations.

As Brown thanked him for his business in return, LoPiana, a 20-year Army veteran, said that even when he was deployed to the Middle East, one of the things he missed most was a meal at Browns.

I wanted to come back so I could eat here, LoPiana said.

The sentiment isnt unique. Browns isnt just a tradition for the Brown family, its one for thousands of families whove celebrated special occasions enjoying fresh lobsters and seafood there for generations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mother's Day and Father's Day are two of our busiest, Bruce Brown II said. And, of course, summers starting around Memorial Day.

Open weekends during the off-season from Nov. 15 through April 14, and seven days a week for the rest of the year, the restaurant for 75 years has drawn patrons from throughout New Hampshire, as well as from New Hampshire and Massachusetts  especially the Merrimack Valley  and beyond.

Weve been coming here for more than 20 years, Lowell residents Edviges and Jorge Fraga told Bruce Brown. My cousins are here from the Azores. We brought them today.

High praise since the Azores, islands off the coast of Portugal, are famous for seafood.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There was even a couple who flew in from Chicago once, Bruce Brown said, because eating at Browns was what the wife said she wanted for her wedding anniversary.

Hampton Beach Casino makeover: Developers bet big on charitable gaming expansion

How Brown's Lobster Pound came to be

It was 1947, Bruce Brown said, during an economic downturn that followed the end of World War II. His dad had been laid off from his factory job in Newburyport, and Louis Violette from his job at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Needing a way to earn a living, they started hauling lobsters landed by Maine fishermen, selling them to fish markets and restaurants in the Merrimack Valley.

Doing well, a year later the two men opened their own lobster pound on Route 1 in Hampton, using the water from the nearby Taylor River for the lobster pool.

Bruce Browns father opened Brown's Lobster Pound in 1950, when Bruce was just 13. Starting out by cleaning tables, Bruce later took over as owner in 1972 upon his fathers retirement. Now, the family-run restaurant is celebrating its 75th anniversary.

But the water from the Taylor River was brackish, Brown said. The water here, from the Black Water River, is better. Its cold, saltier, and good for lobsters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

So, in 1950, Hollis Brown and Violette opened their lobster pound in the flat-roofed, mustard-yellow, one-story building on Route 286 on the banks of the river that still provides the water for the holding tanks where lobsters crawl.

Back then, they just sold lobsters and clams, Bruce Brown said. Alive or cooked. Guess how much lobsters were back then? 35 cents a pound!

Things went so well that two years later, the men added a lunch bar to the lobster pound, serving lobster rolls, steamed clams, fried seafood and sandwiches. Replicating a place he had seen in Maine, Hollis Brown added a small dining room on the west side of the pound stretching over the river where patrons could sit, enjoy the view, and eat the lobsters theyd chosen themselves from the tank.

In 1957, when Violette wanted to open his own lunch bar in nearby Salisbury, Hollis Brown bought him out. In the decades that followed, Hollis  with his son Bruces help  extended the huge expanse of the dining room and furnished it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

My father and I built a lot of the picnic tables in this dining room, Bruce Brown said. Id say about half. Weve never served alcohol here. My mother and father were death on alcohol.

More: 2025 Great Bay Food Truck Festival at Stratham Hill Park. What to know before you go

Brown's Lobster Pound keeps it all in the family

Browns Lobster Pound isnt simply a story about a successful restaurant; its begun the lives of families over its lifetime.

For starters, in 1957, its where Bruce Brown met Cynthia Marston and their romance began.

My father bought insurance from her father and asked him if he had any teenagers who needed a job for the summer, Bruce Brown said, smiling. He did, and when I saw Cynthia, I thought she was a pretty good-looking chick.

Kaleb Brown hauls in fresh lobsters during the lunchtime rush at Browns Lobster Pound, the family-run Seabrook institution celebrating 75 years of tradition.

Only one problem, Brown said, Cynthia had a boyfriend. Over the summer, however, as he regularly drove Cynthia back to her North Hampton home, her loyalties changed. By October 1958, they were married and would become the parents of three fine sons, Robert, Norman and Bruce II.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

All grew up working in the family business, two choosing it for their careers, and one, Norman, becoming a well-known local engineer.

Theyre good boys, Bruce Brown says softly of his sons. And I have four grandchildren, Kaleb, Ashley, Brittany, and Chloe, and four great-grandchildren, Liam, Isla, Cian and Laila.

They all owe their very existence to Browns.

My father met my mother here, according to Bruce Brown II. My brother Norman met his wife Sandy here; my brother Robert met his wife Kim here and I met my wife Cathy here. A lot of people whove worked here over the years have met the people they would marry at Browns.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The fourth Brown generation has already stepped up. Roberts son Kaleb, began in the kitchen as a kid, first as a dishwasher, but he moved up, taking on the important role of fry cook. Now he works beside his dad and uncle daily.

Bruce Brown IIs daughter Chloe  wholl graduate from Seabrook Middle School this spring  may also find her place at Browns in decades to come.

As for Brown generation number five, when schools out, Kaleb Browns kids, Cian, Isla and Liam, can sometimes be found trailing after their dad, getting familiar with the goings-on in the complex world of the food industry.

Kaleb said he once thought of pursuing a career in engineering like his uncle, but the family business called to him.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It just seemed the natural thing to do to work here, Kaleb said. I like it here.

Its not just blood relatives who make up Browns family. Many in the area have worked inside those yellow walls year after year, like Gary Fowler, whos been with Brown for 65 years.

Even when I did my military duty, when Id get leave on weekends, Id work here, Fowler said.

When it was quiet in the restaurant, wed play cribbage, Brown added.

And Id skunk him, Fowler said.

Wasnt very often, Brown returned.

The banter of the two friends revolves around more than cribbage. Staunch Republicans, they have worked on local, state and federal campaigns for Grand Old Party candidates, including, since the 1970s, organizing bi-annual Republican rallies at Browns every two years, when a presidential prospect has been known to show up.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

More: Seabrook tightens beach parking rules ahead of summer

Keeping tradition alive at Browns Lobster Pound

Its no secret the food service industry is one of the most difficult. With the high costs of equipment, perishable stock, long hours, and numerous employees, even nationwide chains find it challenging to drop enough to the bottom line to survive.

But Browns carved out a niche thats worked for three-quarters of a century, even while the cost of its primary product rose exponentially, as fish supplies diminished and consumer demand soared.

Family-run Brown's Lobster Pound in Seabrook celebrates 75 years in business.

In 1960, for example, a seafood plate was $2.50 and an order of French fries 15 cents, Bruce Brown said, making dining there a normal financial experience. But those prices are ancient history in the seafood restaurant business.

A man told me, 'Mr. Brown, your food is very expensive,' Bruce Brown said. I agreed with him. We want to maintain our standards, and these days to do that, everything is expensive. Fresh fish, labor, everything.

Bruce Brown II said to maintain quality, the restaurant buys and prepares fresh fish, and only from suppliers it trusts.

When he surveys other fresh seafood restaurants in the region, Bruce Brown II said he finds prices similar to theirs.

Some things may be a dollar or two higher or lower, Bruce Brown II said, but were all around the same.

Bruce Brown II believes its important for New England to keep its historic seafood restaurants, a legacy of its oldest industry.

Its important to keep these places going, he said. Its New England heritage. These are special places.

Family Destination Guides March 2025 review agrees. Although the review claims Browns yellow building isnt going to win any architectural awards, it adds its captured the hearts and appetites of seafood enthusiasts throughout New England and beyond.

Referring to Browns as steadfastly consistent and unpretentious, a tough, resilient mirror of the New Hampshire Seacoast community, the article claims Browns doesnt need fancy tablecloths, because hiding inside is The Best Seafood in the U.S.

In a culinary landscape dominated by ever-changing food trends and restaurants that reinvent themselves with each season, Browns remains gloriously stubbornly unchanged  they let their impossibly fresh seafood speak volumes.

After 75 years, the dining public appears to agree.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Browns Lobster Pound marks 75 years in Seabrook
MANCHESTER  Wes and May Stannard were ready to move from New York City back to Wes hometown in southern Vermont when they were having their first child a dozen years ago. They werent quite sure what they would do for work once they arrived.

He ran a commercial painting business in Manchester for half a dozen years. Then they opened a restaurant, Moonwink, in Manchester Center that reflected Mays Burmese heritage.

Moonwink became a hit, luring Vermonters with exotic cuisine bearing similarities to Indian, Thai, Chinese and other Asian flavors while holding its own identity. The restaurant drew stellar online reviews, media attention in Vermont and New York state, and a clientele that kept the small eatery hopping through the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Then came 2024, when Moonwinks story flipped from bright to dark.

Wes and May Stannard, owners of the takeout eatery Moonwink, cut vegetables in their Manchester kitchen April 16, 2025.

The Stannards learned last May that the building housing Moonwink was for sale and the lease would not be renewed. Soon after, Wes Stannard began feeling sick. He thought it was the flu, until his leg swelled up. Days later he woke up in the hospital to learn that most of his right leg had been amputated.

Suddenly, the Stannards faced monumental change in business and in life. The new year finds them running Moonwink from home and dealing with Wes Stannards physical challenges, all while raising two children (Ernie, 12, and Ada, 10) and fending off new obstacles in an uncertain landscape.

Were trying to stay positive and just do our thing, Wes Stannard said. But weve had a lot of hurdles in the last year.

Cuisine with Thai, Chinese ties

The Stannards arrived in Manchester in 2012, returning to the town where Wes Stannard grew up and his family has generations of roots. (His father, Bob Stannard, is a former Vermont state legislator and blues musician.) They opened Moonwink in the center of town July 28, 2018.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We kind of got to the point where we wanted to figure out how to do something together, Wes Stannard said. May is an awesome chef.

More: New year, new flavors: Burlington-area restaurants that came on the scene at start of 2025

Though small with seating for 20 customers inside and another 10 to 15 outdoors, Moonwink did well from the get-go.

Theres not a lot of Burmese restaurants on the East Coast in general, Wes Stannard said, so curious local diners and tourists descended upon the eatery. We got pretty dialed into the spot we were in.

Oh no kou swel - a Burmese dish with coconut broth and noodles - from Moonwink in Manchester, shown April 16, 2025.

Burmese cuisine is similar to Thai but less spicy, according to May Stannard, while echoing flavors from China, Japan and India. Burmese restaurants are rare in Vermont; Irrawaddy in Essex Junction served Burmese and Indian cuisine for a time before closing a couple of years ago.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The fact that theres a Burmese place in this tiny little town  half the people dont even know where Burma is, Wes Stannard said.

Moonwinks menu includes rice bowls, noodle dishes and cabbage-based salads, both with meat and vegetarian/vegan options. Curries are common, and Wes Stannard said key ingredients include lime, cilantro, chili and garlic. May Stannard makes falafel from scratch with gluten-free yellow split-pea fritters.

Falafel made from yellow split pea at Moonwink in Manchester on April 16, 2025.

I dont even have to taste it. I can smell it and I can tell what is wrong, said May Stannard, who grew up in the city of Bago in the country now known as Myanmar. I eat this food every day that I cook.

Beyond navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, the restaurant thrived as locals and second-home owners flocked to the eatery for takeout. Moonwink would be chosen by the online restaurant-rating site Yelp as one of New Englands top 100 restaurants in 2022.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its been quite a grind but we were able to figure it out, Stannard said. Its done really well for us. We never tried to get any accolades or anything.

That success continued until last spring when the Stannards learned they would have to move out of their Main Street location in a few months. We had a massive kind of fear of, like, What are we going to do? Wes Stannard said.

The biggest blow was about to come.

The former location of the Moonwink restaurant on Main Street in Manchester Center, shown April 17, 2025.

This thing coursing through your body

A week after the couple learned the building was for sale, Wes Stannard started feeling ill. One of their children was also sick; Wes assumed he had the flu.

A couple of days later, on June 3, he went to urgent care in Manchester, then was taken by ambulance to the hospital in Bennington. His leg had swollen up.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

From that point there, Stannard said, it gets super-fuzzy.

Doctors made an incision in his calf to reduce pressure in his leg. He was airlifted to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center just over the Vermont border in New Hampshire.

My body was shutting down, Stannard said. My organs were failing and I was going into septic shock."

He woke up seven days later with one leg. He said he was out-of-my-mind crazy from the physical trauma but also because he couldnt eat or drink as he was due for another surgery in a couple of days.

Wes Stannard had contracted streptococcus A. Its around us a lot. Its like a prehistoric bacteria. he said of the virus that has spiked in Vermont and nationally in recent years. In certain cases its super, super-aggressive.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Stannards case developed into necrotizing fasciitis, which the Centers for Disease Control on its webpage about streptococcus A calls the flesh-eating disease. Stannard referred to it as this thing coursing through your body.

May Stannard recalls being at Dartmouth-Hitchcock when the surgeon pops in front of me like a genie saying she needed to cut Wes leg off. May asked, If that thing is happening to your husband, what would you do? The surgeon replied that she had to remove Wes leg to save his life.

I dont care if he has one leg or no legs, May said. I want to take him home to our children.

Bayar jaw thok, a Burmese falafel salad, at Moonwink in Manchester on April 16, 2025.

Trying to stay positive

Wes Stannards right leg was amputated above the knee. He stayed in the hospital for three weeks and then went to rehab at Mt. Ascutney Hospital in Vermont. May Stannard stayed with her husband, putting Moonwink on hold while friends watched their two children back in Manchester.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Wes Stannard came home in late June and continued physical therapy to regain his strength after his muscles atrophied from a month of inactivity. He got a prosthetic leg in November. Though he has to go in for adjustments because the residual limb continues to shrink, hes walking around their stair-filled house.

Im OK, he said.

May Stannard ran Moonwink downtown on a month-by-month leasing arrangement until New Years Eve. The couple opened their home business Feb. 25. May Stannard quickly found the silver lining to a home-catering license. Finally we dont have to pay the rent on the downtown space, she said.

The Stannards were buoyed immediately by a solid core of regulars supporting the new takeout operation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That was a great moment for us. Its like, OK, were back, Wes Stannard said. It felt good. Its been a really hard year. Thats community, right?

A neighbor, though, has challenged the town zoning permit that allows the couple to welcome customers to pick up takeout food at the Stannards rural home, a six-minute drive from the original restaurant. The Stannards are due at a May 7 hearing in Manchester to address that appeal.

May and Wes Stannard are cautiously optimistic the hearing will go well. Wes Stannard repeated a mantra hes been saying throughout his ordeal: Just trying to stay positive, not freak out.

La phat thok, a Burmese fermented tea leaf salad at Moonwink in Manchester on April 16, 2025.

Contact Brent Hallenbeck at bhallenbeck@freepressmedia.com.

This article originally appeared on Burlington Free Press: Burmese restaurant Moonwink in Manchester VT echoes flavors in China
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA)  The South Carolina Department of Education took a vote on Tuesday to ban 10 books in public schools across the state.

The books were in violation of the states new regulation, any depiction of sexual contact inappropriate for all public school students in grades K-12.

The total of ban books in South Carolina schools is now at a total of 22.

The following books were banned:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The vote was originally postponed in April after board members had expressed concerns regarding the wording and potential consequences of banning books.

All books have been reported by Elizabeth Szalai, according to the documented, complaint forms..

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.
Long-range drones of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) hit two military-industrial complex plants in the Russian rear on the night of Wednesday, May 7, an informed source in the SBU told the Interfax-Ukraine agency.

"The cotton visited Bazalt - the main defense enterprise of the Russian Federation for the production of weapons and ammunition for all branches of the Russian army (Krasnoarmeysk, Moscow region). There, local residents counted at least seven explosions, after which a fire started. And also at the Splav plant - the only enterprise in the Russian Federation that designs and develops multiple launch rocket systems and cartridges (Tula). After the drones arrived, a strong fire and smoke occurred on the territory of the enterprise," the report says.

In addition, the movement of Ukrainian drones forced the Russians to introduce a "carpet plan" in Moscow region, which provides for the closure of airports. This created a transport collapse. Airlines canceled hundreds of flights.

"Unlike the Russians, who strike residential high-rise buildings in peaceful cities, the SBU works precisely on military facilities that help the enemy carry out armed aggression against Ukraine. Work on weakening Russia's military capabilities will continue in the future," the source said.
LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56)  The Federal Bureau of Investigation announced on Wednesday, May 7, that 10 Kentuckians have been indicted in a joint investigation cracking down on sex crimes involving children.

According to the Louisville division of the FBI, 205 people accused of child sexual abuse have been arrested in the past week. The operation involved all 55 FBI field offices and resulted in 10 federal indictments in the Eastern District of Kentucky alone.

These depraved human beings, if convicted, will face the maximum penalty in prison, some life, Attorney General Pam Bondi said. We will find you, we will arrest you, and we will charge you. If you are online targeting a child, you will not escape us. The FBI and the Department of Justice will come after you, and well prosecute you.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lawrenceburg man sentenced to nearly 13 years in prison for receiving child porn

Six were arrested in Kentucky, three were already in custody, and one case is still outstanding, the FBI said.

According to the Department of Justice, the following eight men in Kentucky were charged in connection with Operation Justice:

Jason Back, 42, of Salyersville, was charged with online enticement of a minor.

Jesus Chavez, 33, of Somerset, faces five counts of producing child pornography.

Jordan Cobb, 33, of Salyersville, was charged with online enticement of a minor and cyberstalking a minor.

Austin Hawk, 25, of Pittsburg, was charged with transporting a minor across state lines with the intent to engage in sexual activity.

Nathan Smith, 30, of Manchester, was charged with two counts of distribution of child pornography, one count of receiving child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography.

Michael Moon, 47, of Annville, was charged with one count of receiving child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.

Timothy Ray Dale, 63, of Paris, was charged with one count of production of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.

Finley Wooton, 32, of Hyden, was charged with the attempted production of child pornography.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One indictment is under seal.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

Olivia Olson, acting special agent in charge of the FBI Louisville Field Office, commended the joint task force for their dedication to working to find alleged perpetrators of child abuse.

The subjects arrested in this operation included those in positions of public trustlaw enforcement, members of the military and teachers. Others are your neighbors, proving criminal activity can be found even in the most familiar places. Theyre accused of various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking, the FBI said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The nationwide investigation remains ongoing. More information about Operation Justice can be found at the Department of Justice website.

Madylin Goins contributed to this story.

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.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCBD)  Another 10 books have joined the growing list of titles banned from South Carolina public school libraries and classrooms following a Tuesday vote by the State Board of Education.

The board voted during its May 6 meeting to pull the books from all K-12 shelves as part of a larger agenda. Dr. David OShields and Rev. Tony Vincent were the only dissenting votes.

The Instructional Review Materials Board recommended on March 13 that the titles be removed under a rule adopted last June that bars books containing descriptions or visual depictions of sexual conduct.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The addition of these 10 books brings the total number of removed or restricted titles to 22, meaning South Carolina surpasses Utah as the nations leader in state-mandated book bans for all schools, according to nonprofit PEN America.

The latest set of removed materials includes the following:

Tricks by Ellen Hopkins

Lucky by Alice Sebold

Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott

Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo

Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J. Maas

Identical by Ellen Hopkins

Empire of Storms by Sarah J. Maas

Hopeless by Colleen Hoover

Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimananda Ngozi Adichie

Collateral by Ellen Hopkins

The decision comes weeks after the board moved to delay consideration during its April 1 meeting in to allow for further legal guidance on the review process.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The regulation uses the definition for sexual conduct outlined in a portion of the states obscenity law to determine what is considered age and developmentally appropriate material for K-12 schools.

While some public educators testified that the definition was too broad and left room for inconsistency in what is and isnt allowed, a Department of Education staff attorney argued that precedent had already been established.

The attorney, Robert Cathcart, said that passages in some of the books were long enough and contained enough explanatory detail to paint that mental image required to meet the removal standard previously set by the board.

But, OShields, the superintendent of Laurens County School District 56, was doubtful that the statute was correctly interpreted during review, pointing to a section of the code that says material should be considered as a whole.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He warned of unintended legal consequences, while also noting that only half of the titles were even available at one of his districts high schools, with some having only been checked out a handful of times.

I cant in good conscience, after having done my own autopsy of what we have, I cannot and will, if necessary, be the only dissenting vote because I think were misreading the law, OShields said at the time.

Critics have also taken issue with how books are challenged. The regulation established a system by which parents can challenge materials in their childs school that they believe fail to meet the standard. Parents must make a good faith effort to address their concerns at the district level first, but can appeal local decisions to the State Board of Education.

In this case, the challenge of 10 titles originated from one parent in Beaufort County  the same parent who has sought to have more than 90 titles pulled from public school shelves statewide.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The state is continuing to leave educational decisions for all students up to one parent, said Josh Malkin, advocacy director for the ACLU of South Carolina. This is problematic and counter to the foundational democratic ideals of public education.

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 WCBD News 2.
NIAMEY (Reuters) - About 10 soldiers were killed and seven injured in an attack in Niger's Dosso region this week, authorities said in a statement broadcast on state radio, while a security source told Reuters the death toll could be higher.

The statement attributed Monday's ambush in southern Niger to "terrorists" and said several of the assailants had been killed and others arrested.

Alongside its Sahel neighbours Mali and Burkina Faso, Niger is battling an insurgency by jihadist groups linked to Al Qaeda and the Islamic State.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The security source said 18 soldiers were missing. Three security vehicles were also stolen, the source said.

The government ordered a ban on the use of motorcycles in the affected communities, according to a directive seen by Reuters.

Last month, 12 soldiers were killed and five Indian citizens kidnapped in an attack in Niger near the turbulent tri-border region with Mali and Burkina Faso.

In March, authorities blamed the EIGS group, an Islamic State affiliate, for an attack on a mosque near the tri-border area in which at least 44 civilians were killed.

The governor of southern Niger's Dosso region, Colonel Major Bana Alassane, travelled to the area a day after the attack to offer condolences to the soldiers' families, the government statement said.

(Reporting by Boureima Balima and Moussa Aksar; Writing by Portia Crowe; Editing by Ros Russell)
Seattle police are searching for a 12-year-old boy who went missing on Monday, May 5.

According to Seattle PD, 12-year-old Elyjah has blue eyes and brown hair and is of medium build. Hes likely wearing a dark color shirt, black pants, and white shoes.

Elyjah was last seen on Monday at Meany Middle School. Police say he is known to frequent Miller Community Center.

If you find him, youre asked to please call 911.
PADUCAH, Ky. (FOX 56)  Over 100 dogs were seized after being found living in unfit conditions in early May at an old veterinary clinic in Paducah.

The McCracken County Sheriffs Office said deputies learned on May 2 that at least 100 dogs were living in what was described as less than ideal conditions. Deputies arrived at the closed Reidland Veterinary Clinic, and after searching the building, they found over 100 dogs.

According to an arrest citation, 81 dogs were in one building without ventilation, electricity, or heating and air conditioning. A deputy noted that most of the animals were on carpet, standing in feces and urine, and there was a strong smell of ammonia inside.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Authorities said 41 additional dogs were found in another building, with 29 living outside in kennel runs with inadequate ability to shelter from the outdoor elements. Inside the building, 12 dogs were found, six of which were newborn puppies.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

While investigators continued searching the old veterinary clinic, one of the dog houses reportedly collapsed from rot while dogs were still inside, according to the arrest documents.

Deputies said in the citation that there were over 122 dogs, and all were seized except the 12 inside the building.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The sheriffs office said 66-year-old Suzanne Alt of Woodlawn, Illinois, was renting the building and had reportedly brought the dogs to Kentucky after being investigated by the Department of Agriculture. The investigation began due to her alleged breeding procedures and Illinois law violations.

Read more of the latest Kentucky news

Court records show Alt was cited to court for 111 counts of inhumane treatment of animals and is due to be arraigned in court at 9 a.m. Thursday.

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.
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  The Ohio Department of Transportation is hoping to help kids bike safer this summer.

ODOT announced 13,000 helmets will be provided to area organizations throughout the state. In total, 179 organizations in 61 counties will receive helmets.

23 Miami Valley organizations are set to receive helmets:

Auglaize County  Wapakoneta Fire Department

Auglaize County  Wapakoneta Police Department

Butler County  City of Middletown Health Department

Champaign County  Urbana Police Department

Champaign County  Friends of Pony Wagon Bike Trail

Champaign County  Simon Kenton Pathfinders

Greene County  Mills Lawn Elementary

Greene County  Mad River Local Schools

Greene County  Ohio State Extension

Logan County  Mary Rutan Health

Miami County  Miami and Darke County Fairs

Miami County  Miami County Public Health

Miami County  Miami County Sheriffs Office

Miami County  Miami Township Police Department

Miami County  National Night Out City of Tipp City

Montgomery County  Blairwood Elementary

Montgomery County  Centerville Police Department

Montgomery County  City of Trotwood

Montgomery County  Louise Troy Physical Education/Safety Patrol

Montgomery County  St Paul Lutheran Church

Montgomery County  Westwood PreK-6th Physical Education/Safety Patrol

Warren County  Healing Center Cincinnati

Warren County  Warren County Combined Health District

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The helmets will be distributed through pediatrician offices, local health departments, police and fire stations, schools and other locations.

Established in 2011, over 100,000 helmets have been donated, along with bike safety training guides and tips on correctly fitting helmets.

Were proud to support the Put A Lid On It campaignit helps make helmet-wearing as routine as buckling a seatbelt and builds lifelong habits of safe riding, said ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn.

Last year, the Ohio State Highway Patrol reported that there were 1,337 bicycle-related crashes. 23 of those crashes were fatal, while 189 resulted in serious injuries.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Melissa Wervey Arnold, CEO of Ohio Chapter of American Academy of Pediatrics, said correctly wearing a bicycle helmet can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury.

Thats why this campaign is so important, said Arnold. Were grateful to all of our partners who are working together to make biking safer for Ohios children.

For a complete list, 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 WDTN.com.
At least 14 people were killed and 54 injured in Russian attacks across Ukraine over the past day, regional officials reported on May 7.

Russia launched 187 drones overnight, including Iranian-designed Shahed-type drones and five Iskander-M ballistic missiles, according to Ukraine's Air Force.

Ukrainian air defenses shot down 81 drones and two ballistic missiles. Another 70 drones vanished from radars, likely used as decoys to overwhelm defenses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The assault was reportedly countered with electronic warfare units, aviation, anti-aircraft missile systems, and mobile fire groups.

In the city of Kyiv, a woman and her son were killed, and eight people were wounded, including four children, the State Emergency Service said.

Russian strikes in Sumy Oblast killed four people, including one child, and wounded 14 civilians, five of them children, the local military administration reported.

Four people were killed and 10 injured in Donetsk Oblast over the past day, Governor Vadym Filashkin said.

Russian attacks in Kherson Oblast killed two people and wounded six, Governor Oleksandr Prokudin said. Strikes hit residential areas, damaging a high-rise building and nine houses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Two people were killed and at least four injured, including a 16-year-old child, in Kharkiv Oblast, Governor Oleh Syniehubov said. Russian forces targeted civilian and social infrastructure in the region.

Eight people were injured in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, two of whom are in serious condition, Governor Serhii Lysak said.

In Zaporizhzhia Oblast, four people were injured during at least 13 attacks, Governor Ivan Fedorov reported.

The escalation comes as Moscow continues to reject a complete ceasefire and intensifies strikes on civilian areas.

"Only significantly intensified pressure on Russia and stronger sanctions can pave the way to diplomacy," President Volodymyr Zelensky said after the attacks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Any measures depriving the aggressor of resources to wage war must be implemented to bring lasting peace. I thank everyone who helps Ukraine with air defense. Russia must be held accountable for its actions."

Read also: Without mentioning his name, Biden calls Trumps pressure on Ukraine modern-day appeasement towards Russia

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Fifteen Republican members of the House of Representatives have warned the Trump administration about the repercussions of further cuts to the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has been spearheading efforts to drastically reduce excess federal funding and waste by cutting agencies staff numbers and funding. Still, it is lawmakers who will have to answer to voters in their constituencies if services cease to function smoothly.

The SSA announced in late February that it would reduce its bloated workforce by 12 percent from 57,000 employees to 50,000. This step attracted criticism from its former commissioner, Martin OMalley, who warned that it could mean some of the 70 million people who depend on benefits going without their checks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Now, in an open letter to OMalleys newly-confirmed successor, Frank Bisignano, the GOP collective led by New York Representative Nicole Malliotakis called for the body not to make any additional cuts that might further deteriorate customer service that has been subpar in recent years.

New York Representative Nicole Malliotakis is among the signatories to the letter (AP)

The letter reminds Bisignano that millions of citizens heavily rely on the services provided by our local SSA offices, the SSA website, and the SSA 1-800 number and says that the lawmakers are concerned about the SSA implementing staffing cuts and ending leases of customer service centers.

The signatories report that constituents have already shared with our offices the inadequate customer service provided by the SSA and have contacted us for assistance.

They also note that, as of February 2024, the office had such a backlog of requests that 5.2 million actions were left pending, resulting in $1.1bn in improper payments going out, Social Security recipients having to wait for more than two hours on hold, and phone calls going unanswered.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We commend and support the continued efforts to make our bloated bureaucracy more efficient for the American people, they write.

However, we must use caution and consider the impact any changes would have so there are no disruptions in services for our seniors and disabled who depend on the Social Security Administration to receive retirement benefits and supplemental security income.

They further remind Bisignano that they are members of Congress representing districts with significant elderly populations.

The letter is signed by Malliotakis, typically a Trump loyalist, plus Juan Ciscomani of Arizona, David Valadao of California, Jeff Hurd and Gabe Evans of Colorado, Zack Nunn of Iowa, Mike Ezell of Mississippi, Don Bacon of Nebraska, Jeff Van Drew of New Jersey, Mike Lawler of New York, Mike Turner of Ohio, Ryan Mackenzie, Brian Fitzpatrick and Rob Bresnahan of Pennsylvania and Jen Kiggans of Virginia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Independent has contacted the SSA for its response.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (Getty)

With the Republican majority in the 435-seat House currently standing at just seven, Speaker Mike Johnson would not be able to pass the Trump administrations legislative agenda if a group comprising 15 of its own members should choose to rebel.

Malliotakis, for one, has also warned the House leadership against compromising Medicaid, saying in another letter co-signed by colleagues on April 14 that she would support targeted reforms but could not back any reduction in Medicaid coverage for vulnerable populations.

Speaking to Geoff Bennett on PBS Newss News Hour on Tuesday, she said: At the end of the day, its about preserving the benefits for people who are currently legally eligible for them, and then ensuring that there are certain parameters in place.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Were trying to find that balance here. And I think, if we do that, we will actually save money in the long run for the people who truly depend on this program and need it. And that is what this is all about. And I think were going to get there.

Anxiety over potential disruption to Social Security payments appears to be growing. Former president Joe Biden recently attacked the Trump administration for wrecking and robbing a service he said amounted to a sacred promise. " He also lashed out at Musk for calling it the biggest Ponzi scheme of all time during an appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast.

Meanwhile, Republican Congressman Byron Donalds was booed at a town hall event in Florida last month as soon as he mentioned DOGEs access to the service.
Editors Note: We incorrectly reported that Victor N. Carlton had died at a local hospital but he had died at the scene of the crime; this article has been updated. We apologize for the error.

TOPEKA (KSNT)  A local judge sentenced an 18-year-old this week in connection to the killing of a Topeka teenager in 2023.

A Shawnee County judge sentenced Joshua M. Mitchiner, 18, to life in prison on May 7. He is not eligible for parole until 25 years have been served.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mitchiner also received just over 26 years for other charges. He was sentenced in connection to the shooting death of Victor N. Carlton, 17, two years ago.

Joshua Mitchiners mugshot. He was sentenced for his part in the death of Victor Carlton in Topeka in 2023. (Photo Courtesy/Shawnee County Department of Corrections)

Man sentenced to life in prison for 2022 deadly Travelers Inn shooting in Topeka

Officers with the Topeka Police Department (TPD) were called around 10:30 p.m. on Oct. 10, 2023 to the 2000 block of Southeast Pennsylvania Avenue on reports of a shooting. Law enforcement responding to the scene found one person, later identified as Carlton, suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound.

Carlton died at the scene. His death marked the 27th homicide investigation of 2023.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The TPD made three arrests in connection with Carltons death. Mitchiner was 17 at the time of his arrest. A Shawnee County jury found Mitchiner guilty of multiple charges associated with the deadly shooting and other crimes on March 17, 2025.

Murder in the first degree.

Murder in the second degree; intentional.

Murder in the second degree; reckless.

Aggravated robbery.

Eight counts of sexual exploitation of a child.

Judge sentences man to 21 years in prison after killing Topeka father of 2

Taylen J. Leclere, 18, was also sentenced in early April to nearly 19 years in prison for Carltons death.

For more crime 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.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Blood sample positive with measles virus. (iStock / Getty Images Plus)

About 180 Williston-area students are isolating at home after three schools were notified by public health officials of measles exposure on their campuses.

Unvaccinated students at Missouri Ridge Elementary, Williston Middle School and Williston High School were told they need to isolate for 21 days to ensure they were not infected, said Paula Lankford, spokesperson for Williston Basin School District 7. The precaution is to prevent students from unknowingly spreading the virus to others.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Health officials on Tuesday confirmed nine cases of measles in Williams County in northwest North Dakota. Daphne Clark, spokesperson for the Upper Missouri District Health Unit, said the measles cases are considered part of an outbreak because health officials believe community spread is occurring without direct contact with known carriers of the illness.

Four people diagnosed with measles were in Williston schools while infectious, the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services said.

The entire campuses of the affected schools were considered exposed, Lankford said.

The quarantine requirement affects some unvaccinated fourth grade students who were touring Williston Middle School on the day of the exposure, Lankford said. It also affects a few other students who dont attend the affected schools but shared a bus ride with an exposed student, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Each of the schools is going to work with those families that are excluded to ensure that they have educational opportunities for their kids and connections with teachers through digital means, Lankford said.

The Williston school district has a total enrollment of about 5,300 students.

Lankford encouraged parents, students or community members to contact their school or health care provider if they have questions.

Whats obviously on our side is that there is not that much school left, Lankford said. We are done here on May 23rd.

If Williston High School seniors under quarantine do not show any symptoms after their 21-day isolation, they will be allowed to participate in graduation commencement at the end of May, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Of the confirmed cases, two are children under 10; five are between ages 10 and 19; one is between 30 and 39 and one is between 40 and 49, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. The first case reported Friday was a Williams County child who is believed to have contracted measles from an out-of-state visitor. All are people who were not vaccinated, health officials say.

The measles, mumps and rubella vaccination rate for Williams County kindergarten students is 81% for the 2024-25 school year, down from 87% two years ago, according to the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services. The rate is 95% for seventh graders and 97% for 11th graders. Public health officials say 95% is needed to prevent community spread.

The Upper Missouri District Health Unit, which serves Williams County as well as Divide, McKenzie and Mountrail counties, is holding walk-in vaccination clinics at 110 W. Broadway, Williston, from 1-7 p.m. Thursday and 8:30 to 6 p.m. Friday.

I feel like we maybe will be busy, Clark said. Were fielding some phone calls today with people with questions, but you never know what thatll look like when it actually becomes time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Clark said anyone experiencing cold symptoms or anyone who has been in contact with a carrier of the illness should not attend the vaccination clinic. Clark said those people should quarantine themselves for 21 days to prevent further spread of the disease.

I think the biggest thing is, if they are a case contact or they are sick, dont come to the clinic, she said.

The vaccinations are not free of charge, she said, so clinic attendees will want to bring their private health insurance cards with them. Depending on their ages, those without health insurance could be eligible for reduced pricing through a state-funded vaccination program.

I think theres a lot of concern and I just recommend people go to trusted sites to get their information, Clark said of community members who may be vaccine hesitant. She added the North Dakota Health and Human Services website is a good source for those looking for more information on the measles, mumps and rubella vaccines.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Those planning on attending the walk-in MMR vaccine clinic in Williston can fill out the organizations immunization consent form ahead of time to speed up the process once they arrive. The form can be found on the Upper Missouri District Health Unit website.

CHI St. Alexius Health medical center in Williston also urged people with symptoms to stay home and call a health care provider prior to coming to the clinic. CHI needed to temporarily close its Williston walk-in clinic on Wednesday after a possible measles exposure was reported, according to a social media post by the health care provider.

Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, eye irritation followed by a body-wide rash. For information about measles, vaccines or local clinic availability, contact the HHS Immunization Unit at 701-328-2378 or visit hhs.nd.gov/measles.

Health officials also urged anyone who visited the Williston Walmart between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. on April 29 to monitor for symptoms and contact a health care provider if symptoms develop.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
Interfax-Ukraine on the occasion of International Nurses Day will hold a press conference called 'One in Three: How a Ukrainian Nurse Lives and Works. Presentation of Study.'

On Monday, May 12, at 14:00, a roundtable discussion on International Nurses' Day will begin at the Interfax-Ukraine agency, named "One in Three: How a Ukrainian Nurse Lives and Works. Presentation of Study."

The results of a large-scale study on working conditions, workload, pay, and legal protection of Ukrainian nurses will be presented. Participants will talk about staff overload in hospitals and the lack of a standard for the number of patients per nurse, work in combat zones and difficult conditions, emotional burnout and low wages, legal vacuum in the protection of medical workers.

Participants include Head of the Council of the NGO medical movement "Be Like Us" Oksana Slobodyana, authors of the study Oksana Dutchak, Olena Tkalych and Natalya Lomonosova, lawyers, human rights activists Roksolana Lemyk and Vitaliy Dudin (to be confirmed), nurse in the combat zone Hanna Zhadan; emergency nurse Olena Steshenko; education nurse Tetyana Hnativ, activist of the NGO medical movement "Be Like Us", X-ray technician Antonina Shatsylo, practicing nurses from different regions of Ukraine, activists of the NGO medical movement "Be Like Us" Ruslana Mazurenok, Olha Lysyvets, Larysa Matrashak. The Moderator will be Manager of the NGO medical movement "Be Like Us" Yulia Lypych-Kochyrka (Reitarska St., 8/5).

The broadcast will be available on the YouTube channel of the Interfax-Ukraine agency.

Registration of journalists on site with editorial ID cards. Additional information by phone: (097) 484-64-96.
May 7Police arrested Seth Aaron Kleven, 44, for third-degree driving while intoxicated at 12:24 p.m. Monday after receiving a report of a careless driver near the intersection of South Broadway and East Front Street.

Police arrested Scott Jordan Dodson, 40, for first-degree driving while intoxicated, an ignition interlock violation and a Department of Corrections warrant after receiving a report of a drunk driver at 6:15 p.m. Monday at 1201 E. Main St.

Theft by check reported

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Deputies received a theft by check report at 11:10 a.m. Monday at 111 E. Main St. in Glenville.

Hit-and-run reported

Deputies received a report of a hit-and-run at 11:40 a.m. Monday at 339 S. Hillcrest Circle in Clarks Grove.

Man reported urinating in driveway

Police received a report at 10:40 a.m. Monday of an individual who was urinating in a driveway daily on Seath Drive.

School bus stop arm violation reported

Police received a report at 2:30 p.m. Monday of a school bus stop arm violation that occurred at 7:42 a.m. near West Main Street and Wedgewood Road.

Shoplifters reported

Police received a report at 3:05 p.m. Monday of two shoplifters at Walmart, 1550 Blake Ave.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Damage reported

Damage was reported to a retaining wall at 10:01 p.m. Monday at 201 W. Main St.

Vehicle damaged by pellet gun

A vehicle was reported damaged by a pellet gun at 10:16 p.m. Monday at 901 Madison Ave.

Debit card stolen, used

Police received a report at 10:43 p.m. Monday of a debit card that was stolen the night prior on the 400 block of St. Peter Avenue. Money was taken out of the account.

Mailbox reported damaged

Police received a report at 7 a.m. Tuesday of damage to a mail key box at 1115 E. Main St. The key was also taken.

1 cited for marijuana at school

Police cited one individual for possession of marijuana under 21 and possession of an e-cigarette device on school property at 11:20 a.m. Tuesday at Albert Lea High School.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Door kicked in on house

A door was reported kicked in at 11:22 a.m. Tuesday at a house at 721 Minnesota Ave. Numerous items were reported missing.

Apartment rummaged through

Police received a report of an apartment that was rummaged through at 7:11 p.m. Tuesday at 139 E. William St. Nothing was missing.

Hit-and-run reported

Deputies received a report of a hit-and-run at 2:31 p.m. Tuesday near Gene Avenue and Milton Avenue.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT)  More than 200 people were arrested as a result of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators.

In the Northern District of Alabama, two individuals were arrested and charged with federal crimes. Jalan Lewis, 31, of Tuscaloosa, was charged with attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, transferring obscene materials to minors, sexual exploitation of children, distribution of child pornography, receipt of child pornography and coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. The incidents reportedly occurred between July 2024 and Nov. 2024 in Tuscaloosa County.

Birmingham man arrested after weekend shooting

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Robert Neman, Jr., 28, of Glenshaw, Pennsylvania, was charged with sexual exploitation of children, coercion and enticement of a minor, and travelling with the intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct. These incidents reportedly occurred between Dec. 2024 and Jan. 2025 in Winston County.

The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victimsespecially child victimsand we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us, said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.

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.
AKRON, Ohio (WJW)  Two men are facing charges after a postal carrier was robbed at gunpoint Tuesday evening in Akron.

According to the Akron Police Department, the postal carrier was in the area of 738 Cordova Ave. around 6:30 p.m. when a man wearing a ski mask approached him and pulled out a gun.

NTSB investigating fatal Ashland County plane crash

He demanded the carriers arrow key which is used to open mailboxes, a news release from the department said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The carrier handed over the key and the suspect left the scene with another man in a dark grey Dodge Charger.

Officers learned the suspects had parked behind a nearby apartment building and they located the vehicle there. The suspects began walking away as police approached and broke into a run when officers tried to stop them. Both were apprehended after a lengthy chase, the release said.

Officers recovered a backpack with a firearm and the postal carriers arrow key inside.

FBI child sex abuse crackdown catches 11 alleged offenders from Northeast Ohio

Aarynn Rodgers, 18, was charged with Aggravated Robbery.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dennis Harris, 20, was charged with Obstructing Official Business and had a felony warrant for his arrest from Lucas County.

Both suspects were taken to the Summit County Jail.

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.
DENVER (KDVR)  Two people died following an early morning residential fire in Denvers Washington Virginia Vale neighborhood.

Just before 5 a.m. on Wednesday, the Denver Fire Department posted on X that crews were responding to a residential structure fire at Dakota Avenue and Niagara Street. The area is just east of Glendale.

When crews arrived, they said there was heavy smoke inside the building. Firefighters were able to put water on the fire and hit any hot spots.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox

Nearly 30 minutes later, Denver Fire provided an update and said two people had died and the fire had been knocked out.

Two people died following a house fire in east Denver on May 7, 2025 (Denver Fire Department) Two people died following a house fire in east Denver on May 7, 2025 (Denver Fire Department) Two people died following a house fire in east Denver on May 7, 2025 (Denver Fire Department)

FOX31s Courtney Fromm was the first reporter on scene. She learned that the call originally came in for a trash fire.

When crews entered the home, they told Fromm that they had found the two victims  one was reportedly by the front door and the other in a back bedroom. Both victims were moved to the front yard where firefighters performed CPR. However, both victims were pronounced dead.

Having those smoke alarm detectors is always going to give you that first sign that theres something going on inside your home. We dont know if that was the case here. Obviously, maybe someone was trying to get out, just by the fact that we found them at the front of the home. Always keeping those smoke detectors working is gonna help save lives because it wakes you up, it provides awareness and it kind of snaps you out of it, like I need to get out of this home,' said Luis Cedillo with the Denver Fire Department.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The fire is under investigation, and the possible cause hasnt 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 FOX31 Denver.
Just as residents and officials feared, gun violence complaints are rising at Milwaukee County parks as temperatures warm and the areas get more active at night.

The Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office has had to respond to a park both May 5 and 6 following reports of someone with a gun or shots fired.

The Milwaukee Police Department, who is also investigating the May 6 shooting, say two people were shot at Tiefenthaler Park, at North 25th Street and West Galena Street. The victims are ages 20 and 28 and are being treated for injuries at an area hospital, police said. No other information was provided.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sheriff's deputies responded to the park at about 7:30 p.m. following report of multiple shots fired. The sheriff's office said Milwaukee police reported 17 shots fired on ShotSpotter, a gunshot detection technology.

Witnesses reported that following the shots, up to six males ran from the park while holding guns, according to the sheriff's office.

The night prior, deputies responded to Washington Park for fights and a person accused of having a rifle, according to the sheriff's office.

As deputies arrived, a pursuit ensued with a suspected vehicle, which ended near North 38th Street and West Galena Street.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Milwaukee police were the pursuing agency and made multiple arrests at that residential intersection after many neighbors and family members tried to stop the arrests of the suspects, according to police. Those moments were in-part captured in a viral video shared to Facebook.

In late March, residents gathered at Dineen Park, 6901 W. Vienna Ave., to discuss gun violence at the parks. Dineen Park had been very active at the time, with large groups gatherings typically after hours. A 16-year-old boy and 26-year-old man died following a shooting at the park in March 2024 and a mass shooting killed one and injured nine others last July.

Residents expressed that there aren't enough patrols for the park, while the sheriff's office stressed the need for residents to inform officials or law enforcement when they spot illegal or unsafe activity.

"If no one's calling us, ... then we don't know that it's going on," said Brian Barkow, chief deputy with the sheriff's office. "If you hear gunshots, please call. They can't get there fast enough. ... If there is a large party going on, ... I guarantee you will see squads come."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Residents do have the option to notify the sheriff's office anonymously, through the sheriff's office app. Residents who would rather not engage with law enforcement at all, can also contact 414Life, a team of violence interrupters that is housed at the Medical College of Wisconsin.

Anyone with any information about either of this week's incident can also call Milwaukee police at 414-935-7360 or to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 414-224-Tips or use the P3 Tips app.

The Office of Community Wellness and Safety recommends that residents sign up for the city's Alert Neighbor Program, where neighbors can fill out an application and once approved, will conduct a safety walk with law enforcement and elected officials, and equipment will be distributed, like cameras and lighting, that increases safety.

Where to find help

Milwaukee's Office of Community Wellness and Safety recommends these resources for free support:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

414Life outreach and conflict mediation support: 414-439-5525.

Milwaukee County's 24-Hour Mental Health Crisis Line: 414-257-7222.

Milwaukee's Child Mobile Crisis and Trauma Response Team: 414-257-7621.

National crisis text line: Text HOPELINE to 741741 to text with a trained crisis counselor.

National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-8255.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 800-799-7233.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: 2 people shot as gun violence complaints rise at Milwaukee parks
Two suspects were arrested for thefts targeting retail stores in Orange County.

On May 3, security officers at the Irvine Spectrum mall reported a suspicious person seen on mall premises.

Irvine police arrived at the scene and spotted the male suspect driving away from the area while committing multiple vehicle code violations.

Officers eventually pulled the vehicle over and found two men inside  Cristian Hernandez Jaramillo, 36, and David Zamir Zuarez Ramos, 28, both Ontario residents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Inside their car, police found over $1,200 worth of stolen merchandise from Lululemon and Vuori stores.

Over $1,200 worth of stolen merchandise from Lululemon and Vuori stores was found in the suspects vehicle on May 3, 2025. (Irvine Police Department) Police provided blurred photos of the suspects  Cristian Hernandez Jaramillo, 36, and David Zamir Zuarez Ramos, 28, both Ontario residents  after a retail theft arrest on May 3, 2025. (Irvine Police Department) A booster bag filled with stolen merchandise was found in the suspects vehicle during an arrest on May 3, 2025. (Over $1,200 worth of stolen merchandise from Lululemon and Vuori stores was found in the suspects vehicle on May 3, 2025. (Irvine Police Department)

Two lined booster bags were also found. Booster bags are typically lined with material that provides electromagnetic shielding for security tags, allowing thieves to steal merchandise without detection.

Both men were arrested for burglary, possession of burglary tools, organized retail theft, receiving stolen property, and driving without a license. They were booked at the Orange County Jail.

No further details were released as the investigation remains ongoing.

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 women have learned their fate after they pleaded guilty to an organized retail crime scheme that involved the Peach State.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

On Wednesday, the Cherokee County District Attorneys Office announced that Ebony Fallon Washington (aka Stephanie Harris), 43, and Melissa Holland (aka Keisha Wilson), 46, both of New York, pleaded guilty to three counts of violating Georgias Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The pair was sentenced to 20 years each, with the first 10 years to be served in prison.

The sentencing stems from an investigation that began in June 2022.

According to court documents, from June 2022 through August 2024, the pair stole nearly $141,000 in merchandise in 187 incidents in 21 states, including Georgia.

The pair went to stores all around the metro Atlanta area including Acworth, Adel, Austell, Buford, Calhoun, Columbus, Conyers, Covington, Cumming, Dallas, Fayetteville, Flowery Branch, Fort Oglethorpe, Grovetown, Hampton, Hiram, Holly Springs, Kennesaw, LaFayette, Macon, Marietta, McDonough, Milton, Norcross, Rockmart, Roswell, Smyrna, Stockbridge, Tifton, Trion, and Woodstock.

TRENDING STORIES:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The DA said the women would purchase AirPods with cash, remove the real products from their boxes, replace them with less valuable items, reseal the packaging to appear unopened, and return the fake products for full cash refunds.

Officials said the pair kept the real Apple products to resell for profit.

Prosecutors say they began investigating in May 2024, when Walmart Global Investigations met with the Gang and Organized Crime Unit of the DAs office to discuss a large theft ring involving both Walmart and Target.

In September 2024, law enforcement agencies caught and arrested the pair in Coweta County.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Officers said they found key evidence from the womens rental car, including receipts for hotels near the stores targeted in the scheme and tools to open the AirPods boxes. Authorities said they also discovered five cell phones used by the pair.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

Both women are also ordered to pay a $134,951.86 in restitution, which is the remaining balance after the value of recovered merchandise was deducted from the total theft amount.

As part of their probation, they are to have no contact with each other; they are banned from all Walmart and Target locations, cannot enter Cherokee County, and are required to complete 320 hours of community service.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Organized retail crime is a growing problem not only in our community, but nationwide. In Cherokee County, we judiciously use RICO indictments for individuals like these defendants who were clearly involved in an organized scheme which impacted stores locally as well as throughout the country, said District Attorney Susan K. Treadaway.

RELATED VIDEO:
The bodies of Bently and Rylan Fields were found by police inside a burning Kentucky home

Their father, Dustin Fields, has been arrested on an arson charge

Dustin was arrested after he allegedly gave police "conflicting information"

A Kentucky man has been arrested after his two teenage sons were found deceased inside a burning home police allege he set on fire intentionally.

The victims, 13-year-old Bently Fields and 15-year-old Rylan Fields, were found dead alongside a pet dog after emergency personnel responded to a house fire in Franklin County, Ky., on Wednesday, April 30, the Franklin County Sheriffs Office confirms to PEOPLE.



Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dustin Fields, 43, was arrested on Thursday and charged with first-degree arson, Chief Dwayne Depp tells PEOPLE.

Fields was not present at the scene when officers arrived but showed up a few minutes later, Depp says.

He was arrested after he allegedly gave conflicting information to investigators, Depp tells PEOPLE, declining to comment further about the reason behind his arrest.

Dustin also allegedly had an accelerant on his shoes, which were located in different parts of the home, notably near the boys' bodies, according to an arrest citation, The State Journal, WLKY and WHAS 11 reported.

Gofundme Rylan and Bently Fields Rylan and Bently Fields

Depp confirmed the identities of the teenagers, whose names were released by the medical coroners office on Monday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a GoFundMe set up by the boys' sibling, they are being remembered for their passions: "[Bently] loved to fish and even made YouTube videos about it (BMF'S OUTDOORS). Rylan was more tech-savvy than anything really," reads part of the fundraiser.

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.

Franklin County Regional Jail Dustin Fields Dustin Fields

Dustin appeared on Zoom during a Franklin County court on Monday and entered a plea of not guilty, per LEX 18, WHAS 11 and The State Journal.

He reportedly asked a judge if he could be temporarily released to attend his sons funerals, but it was not granted, per WLKY, WTVQ and The State Journal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He told the judge: I miss my boys, WTVQ and WHAS 11 reported.

Further charges are pending as the investigation continues, Depp says.

If you suspect child abuse, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child or 1-800-422-4453, or go to www.childhelp.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages.



Read the original article on People
SUFFOLK, Va. (WAVY)  A boy who was once suspended from a school in Suffolk for pointing a pencil and pretending it was a gun is now a Marine.

10 On Your Side first reported about the Driver Elementary School student being suspended on May 6, 2013. At the time, then-7-year-old Christopher Marshall was playing with another student, pointing a pencil like a gun and making gun-like noises.

He said back in 2013 he was acting like a Marine while his friend was pretending to be the bad guy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We were playing guns at school, Marshall said. We were just being typical kids. And, you know, one thing led to the next [and] I was getting sent home from school.

He ended up suspended for two days because the school system has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to weapons or threats of weapons.

His story went on to make national headlines.

I just remember it being pretty intense, from the standpoint of getting a phone call that hes getting suspended for something so ridiculous when he was just being a kid, said Christopher Marshalls father, Paul Marshall.

The then-7-year-old was just imitating his father Paul, who is a former Marine. But what neither of them knew at the time was that the suspended second-grade student was one day going to follow in his fathers footsteps.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You fast forward up until now, hes fulfilling his dream, Paul Marshall said.

Exactly 12 years later from when his story first aired, Private Christopher Marshall, 19, shared with 10 On Your Side he is officially a Marine after graduating from boot camp May 2.

These past three months were definitely the hardest three months of my life, Christopher Marshall said. My dad can vouch for that. It was just a trial and tribulation of, like, emotions. Youre going through the thick of it, youre becoming part of the worlds best fighting force.

Paul Marshall said he is proud of what his son has accomplished.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Seeing him become a Marine and do this for us and [to] know what it means to him is just so special, Paul Marshall said. Once a Marine, always a Marine, and knowing it meant that much to him, and seeing where hes come and what hes done with his life is just words cant describe it.

As for whats next for Christopher Marshall, hes finishing up his post-boot camp leave with his family and then hell be headed to train in North Carolina.

Ill be over there learning more about the Marine Corps and the core values, Christopher Marshall said, and just learning my job, my specialty.

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.
The National Commission for the state regulation of electronic communications, radio frequency spectrum and postal services has transferred the last remaining radio frequency bands previously used by Ukrtelecom's mobile subsidiary TriMob in Kyiv to the country's second-largest mobile operator, Vodafone Ukraine.

"The National Commission for the state regulation of electronic communications, radio frequency spectrum and postal services approved the transfer of individual rights to use the radio frequency spectrum 1940.0 to 1945.0 and 2130.0 to 2135.0 with a bandwidth of 10 MHz in Kyiv from TriMob LLC to PrJSC Vodafone Ukraine," the commission said on its website following a meeting on Wednesday.

"Under the adopted decision, TriMob's license to use this spectrum for cellular radio communication has been terminated, and a new license will be issued to Vodafone Ukraine. This will contribute to more efficient spectrum management and further development of mobile communications in Ukraine," the commission said.

Vodafone Ukraine will use the frequency bands previously assigned to TriMob to provide electronic communications services. According to the commission's documentation, Vodafone is expected to fully utilize the spectrum between October and December 2025. The license will remain valid until December 13, 2025.

Vodafone Ukraine's press office told Interfax-Ukraine that the transfer marks a "logical continuation of longstanding cooperation between the operators: since 2016, most TriMob subscribers have been served through national roaming on the Vodafone Ukraine network."

The press service also said Vodafone has already been using the frequencies transferred by the national commission in Kyiv since 2023, based on a contract with TriMob and a relevant order from the National Center for Operations and Control.

As the mobile operator explained, "the transfer of usage rights simply formalized the current operational arrangement in the interest of all users."

"The frequency transfer will improve spectrum efficiency and strengthen network capacity, especially in Kyiv, where demand is high. For Vodafone and TriMob subscribers, nothing will change, they will continue using the familiar network, but with improved quality and connection stability," Vodafone Ukraine's press office said.

TriMob (formerly known as Utel), a subsidiary of Ukrtelecom, received Ukraine's first 3G license back in 2005. Its network was based on UMTS/HSDPA technology in the 2100 MHz band. In 2019, the company returned almost all its national 3G frequencies to the regulator and focused exclusively on providing services in Kyiv. Since 2020, TriMob held a license for the 1940 to 1945 and 2130 to 2135 MHz bands, used for 3G services in the capital.
Six months later, the 2024 election has ended.

Donald Trump defeated Kamala Harris in November, but one race has dragged on for months.

Republican Jefferson Griffin just conceded in the hotly-contested North Carolina Supreme Court race.

Everyone knows that President Donald Trump defeated then-Vice President Kamala Harris at the ballot box in November. But technically, the 2024 election just ended on Wednesday, when the last remaining contest was finally decided.

In the hotly-contested North Carolina Supreme Court race between Republican Jefferson Griffin and Democratic incumbent Allison Riggs, Griffin conceded after US District Judge Richard Myers ruled against his electoral challenge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Myers instructed North Carolina's election board to certify Riggs' victory in a race that she won by a razor-thin 734-vote margin out of more than 5.5 million ballots cast.

"While I do not fully agree with the District Court's analysis, I respect the court's holding  just as I have respected every judicial tribunal that has heard this case," Griffin said in a statement on Wednesday.

There were multiple recounts for the key judicial seat on a court where Republicans hold a 5-2 majority.

Griffin challenged the validity of roughly 65,000 votes, which was more than enough to affect the final outcome of the election in one of the most competitive swing states in the country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The challenges stretched on for weeks  and then months  after the November election.

Democrats called foul on the GOP effort to overturn Riggs' victory, arguing that the party was seeking to disenfranchise voters, especially in Democratic-leaning areas. However, Griffin and state Republicans contended that many of the votes in question could potentially have been cast by ineligible voters.

Riggs, who was appointed to the state Supreme Court in 2023 by then-Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper, applauded the outcome while also criticizing the GOP's election challenge.

"After millions of dollars spent  thousands of volunteers mobilized, hundreds of legal documents filed, and immeasurable damage done to our democracy, I'm glad the will of the voters was finally heard, six months and two days after Election Day," she said in a statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"It's been my honor to lead this fight  even though it should never have happened," she added.

In a statement, Democratic National Committee chair Ken Martin also praised the result while lambasting the state GOP.

"For six months, Republicans waged an unprecedented attack on voters  including members of the military serving our country overseas  but the Riggs campaign and North Carolina Democrats never wavered," he said. "Make no mistake: This was a fundamental fight of right versus wrong."

Last November, Democrats performed strongly in North Carolina, easily winning the governor's race, flipping the lieutenant governor's office, and holding the attorney general's office despite Harris' statewide loss to Trump.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The secretive election to choose a new pope will begin on May 7.

A group of 133 cardinals  the so-called Princes of the Church  will gather inside the Sistine Chapel at the heart of the Vatican to pick a successor to Pope Francis, who died last month of a stroke and heart failure at the age of 88.

What is a conclave?

The conclave is the arcane process of choosing the next pope. Cardinals from around the world will gather beneath the frescoed ceilings of the Sistine Chapel in the heart of the Vatican, where they will vote for Pope Franciss successor by secret ballot.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The chapel will have been swept for bugs and other recording devices and cardinals will be banned from using laptops or mobile phones.

For the last conclave in 2013, which followed the historic resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, an oath of secrecy was taken by members of the Swiss Guard and Vatican gendarmerie, the city states police force, as well as the doctors and nurses who assisted elderly or infirm cardinals.

A Vatican master of ceremonies will pronounce the words Extra omnes (Everyone out), ordering staff and aides to leave the chapel so that only the cardinal electors remain.

When will the conclave begin?

The conclave will begin on May 7, the Vatican has confirmed. The centuries-old tradition must be held between 15 and 20 days after the Popes death.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For a few days it will restore Romes ancient title  caput mundi or capital of the world  as 1.2 billion Catholics await the result of the election.

How many cardinals are there?

There are currently 252 cardinals, but only those under the age of 80 are eligible to vote.

This leaves 135 cardinals, coming from 71 different countries, with the decision to select the next pope.

How is the new pope elected?

The new pope will be elected by a secret ballot. The cardinals, known as princes of the Church, will be seated on chairs made of cherry wood behind 12 wooden tables covered in satin and cloth.

There will be a 13th table positioned in front of the altar, on which will be placed a silver urn into which the cardinals will cast their ballot papers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Each cardinal writes his choice on a ballot paper inscribed with the words Eligo in summum pontificem  I elect as Supreme Pontiff.

One ballot is held on the first day of the papal conclave.

For the rest of the conclave they will vote four times a day  twice in the morning and twice in the afternoon  burning their ballot papers after every second vote, until they reach a two-thirds majority.

What does the white smoke mean?

Two metal stoves are installed inside the 15th-century chapel, connected by a long metal pipe to the chimney on the roof.

One stove will be used for the burning of ballot papers after cardinals cast their votes, while the other will be used to emit coloured smoke  black to signify that the cardinals have yet to reach agreement, white to announce habemus papam  we have a Pope.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chemicals are used to create the different coloured smoke, although to avoid ambiguity, the white smoke that signifies a Pope has been elected will be accompanied by the ringing of St Peters bells.

White smoke coming from the chimney on the roof of the Vaticans Sistine Chapel signifies that a new pope has been elected - Gregorio Borgia/AP

Once the two-thirds majority has been achieved, the most senior cardinal will ask the chosen cardinal if he is prepared to become pope.

If the answer in Latin is Accepto (I Accept), he is taken into a side room known as the Stanza delle Lacrime, or Room of Tears, so named because many have wept at the enormity of the task they face.

There, he is given help to take off his scarlet cassock and change into the white vestments of the papacy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He also has to decide by what name he wishes to be called  the name-changing tradition dates back to the sixth century when a priest named Mercury who was elected pope felt his name was too pagan and changed it to John II.

When will the new pope be declared?

The senior cardinal will then step out onto the balcony of St Peters Basilica and declare in Latin: Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum. Habemus papam! (I announce to you a great joy. We have a pope!).

He will announce the name of the elected cardinal and the papal title he has chosen.

The new pope then gives his first blessing, watched by huge crowds in St Peters Square and on television by millions around the world.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The ceremony to install the pope takes place a few days later.

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.
HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. (WSAV)  On Tuesday, the Hilton Head Island Town Council approved the first reading of the Town Managers proposed 2026 consolidated budget in a 7 to 0 vote. The financial plan totals $174,711,350 million in projected revenues and scheduled expenditures. It spans six major funds and decreases the property tax rate from 21.4 mills to 19.4 mills. This reflects the Towns ongoing commitment to fiscal responsibility and service to residents.



This budget allows us to move forward on protecting our Islands character, investing in resilience, and strengthening community services, said Mayor Alan Perry. The Town Manager and his staff have done a fantastic job of bringing forward a balanced budget that eases some of the tax burden on our residents, puts shovels in the ground on some big projects, plans for future capital investment and economic growth, and creates some tangible, long-awaited improvements in our land management ordinance. I encourage everyone to do a deep dive into this budget because I think our community will be pleased with how well it positions us for success.



Town Manager Marc Orlando presented the proposed budget, emphasizing its alignment with the Town Councils current 2023-2025 Strategic Action Plan, the 2020 Comprehensive Plan, and preliminary strategic priorities developed during the February 2025 Strategic Planning Workshop. Those strategic priorities can be found here.

The public will have three more opportunities to learn more about and provide feedback on the proposed budget:

Monday, May 12 at 2 p.m.  Town Council budget workshop.

Tuesday, May 13 at 2 p.m.  Town Council budget workshop for capital improvement projects.

Tuesday, June 3 at 3 p.m.  Second public hearing and final reading at the Town Council meeting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Anyone wishing to address the Town Council about the budget during any of the scheduled meetings should contact the Town Clerk at 843-341-4701. You can also sign-up prior to the start of meeting business to address Town Council during the public comment period.

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.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) More than 200 child sexual abuse offenders were arrested, and 115 children were rescued as a result of Operation Restore Justice, the Department of Justice announced.

The operation was executed over the course of five days by 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Departments Criminal Division, and United States Attorneys Offices around the country, in a nationwide crackdown.

The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victimsespecially child victims and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us, said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Among the 205 child sexual abuse offenders, two from Pinellas County were arrested and charged with federal offenses, the DOJ said.

Lee Hughes, 45, from Pinellas Park, a third-grade teacher, was arrested on May 1 and charged with attempted transmission of harmful material to a minor.

According to court documents, Hughes communicated with an undercover officer in an attempt to engage in sexual intercourse with the undercover officers alleged nine-year-old daughter from June 2024 to May 2025.

Hughes sent the undercover officer around 10 explicit photos and/or videos of himself, with the request that they be shown to the alleged child, the court documents stated.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On May 1, 2025, Hughes reportedly traveled to an agreed-upon location to engage in sexual intercourse with the alleged child and was arrested.

If convicted, Hughes faces a maximum of 10 years in federal prison.

Jonathan Richmond, 30, from St. Petersburg, was arrested on a two-count indictment and charged with receipt and possession of child sexual abuse material on May 1, 2025.

If convicted, Richmond faces a maximum of 20 years in federal prison for each count, according to the DOJ.

Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, said FBI Director Kash Patel. Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state, and local partners, were sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children. The FBI is relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
A nationwide operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrest of 205 alleged sex offenders, several of them from California, according to federal authorities.

The U.S. Department of Justice on Wednesday announced the results of "Operation Restore Justice," a coordinated effort to identify, track and arrest suspected child sex predators across the country.

Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us, FBI Director Kash Patel said in a statement. Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: 30-year-old Instagram user charged with luring minors with drugs and alcohol for sex

Those arrested face varying charges, including production, distribution and possession of child sexual abuse material; online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking, authorities said.

During a morning briefing, Patel highlighted a few specific defendants  including a state trooper from Minneapolis, an undocumented immigrant arrested in Norfolk, Va., and a former Washington, D.C., police officer, the Washington Post reported.

Several of those arrested were from California, but the Justice Department declined to say how many when asked by The Times, instead referring inquiries to local FBI field offices.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The FBI office in Anchorage identified and arrested three men  including one from California  on charges of committing alleged child exploitation or child pornography crimes in the state, authorities said.

Read more: Man convicted after To Catch A Predator sting charged again nearly 20 years later in Orange County

In some cases, community outreach efforts played a role in an arrest, authorities said.

A young victim came forward to an FBI agent eight hours after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y., which led to the arrest of a California man, according to a news release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The coordinated effort was conducted over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Justice Department's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section and U.S. state attorneys' offices, according to a news release.

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.
Genetic testing company 23andMe, once valued at $6 billion, has filed for bankruptcy. State attorneys general are urging concerned customers to delete their data, while experts warn that state and federal laws may not fully protect their privacy. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

The fate of more than 15 million customers genetic data remains in limbo after popular DNA testing company 23andMe filed for bankruptcy in March. The data is up for sale, stoking fears about how it might be used and prompting attorneys general from more than a dozen states to warn 23andMe users: Delete your data.

Your genetic data is your most personal, confidential data, and you should be able to protect who has access to it, North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson, a Democrat, said in a March statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You have the power to delete your data now  please act quickly.

Dr. Adam Brown, a Washington, D.C.-based emergency physician and the founder of a health care strategy firm, deleted his information on 23andMe as soon as he learned of the bankruptcy filing, he told Stateline.

For him, the bankruptcy begs a vital question that federal and state laws dont fully address: What happens to your genetic data when the company holding it collapses?

Federal protections are flimsy. States have beefed up their genetic privacy laws in recent years, but many experts say they dont go far enough.

23andMe has said the bankruptcy will not change how it stores, manages or protects its trove of sensitive customer information. In a news release issued shortly after the bankruptcy announcement, the company said any potential buyers would have to agree to comply with 23andMes consumer privacy policy and all applicable laws. When contacted by Stateline, the company declined to comment beyond what it has published in news releases and information it posted for customers on its website.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But once the data is in the hands of another company, that company could change its privacy policy at any time, experts noted.

Once you get to the point of bankruptcy court, there may not be those same guarantees or the same ethos a new company may have around privacy protections for consumers, Brown said.

I want people to understand there actually are not a lot of data privacy protections for consumers, especially for these direct-to-customer-type businesses.

HIPAA doesnt help

Companies such as 23andMe offer their users potentially game-changing revelations about their health and ancestry. The process is simple: Mail in a saliva sample and the company uses it to build an individual genetic profile that can reveal not only a persons family connections, but also health insights such as their risk of developing a disease like cancer or Alzheimers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This valuable personal data underpins a direct-to-customer genetic testing market that was valued at $1.93 billion globally in 2023 and is expected to grow, according to market research firm Grand View Research.

23andMe was an industry giant until its stock price plummeted following a massive 2023 data breach that affected the accounts of nearly 7 million customers. Then came the $30 million class-action lawsuit settlement.

The company declared bankruptcy in late March of this year, and announced its up for sale.

A flurry of alerts from state attorneys general around the country soon followed. AGs from states including Alabama, Arizona, California, Kentucky, New Hampshire, North Carolina and Texas issued similar press releases that recommended customers ask the company to delete their genetic profile and destroy the saliva sample used to create it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We have robust state privacy laws that include data deletion rights, and I would encourage any Texan concerned about their data to exercise the right to have their data securely deleted, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a Republican, said in an April statement.

The fear is that a new 23andMe owner could choose to use or share sensitive personal genetic data in ways the companys current privacy policy doesnt allow. Theres worry it could be used, for example, to inflate peoples life insurance premiums or expose them to employment discrimination.

And there arent many guardrails to prevent that from happening.

HIPAA, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, doesnt apply to companies like 23andMe. The landmark federal law protects patients sensitive health information when its handled by doctors, hospitals and health insurers. But direct-to-customer companies such as 23andMe or Ancestry arent considered health care providers, and their non-invasive saliva collection kit isnt considered a medical test.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The main federal law that protects people from discrimination based on their genetic information is nearly 20 years old. The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) was passed in 2008, long before the rise of at-home testing kits. It applies to employers and health insurers, but not to life insurance companies, mortgage lenders and other non-health entities. And it doesnt explicitly protect epigenetic information, which is information about the way a persons genes  and by extension, health  are affected by outside factors such as smoking, disease or stress.

How to delete your 23andMe data

Log in to your 23andMe account on 23andme.com. Under your profile, click Settings. Scroll to the 23andMe Data section. Click the View button. If you want a copy of your genetic data, choose the option to download it to your device before proceeding. Scroll to the Delete Data section. Click Permanently Delete Data. Check your email for a confirmation email from 23andMe, then follow the link in the email to confirm your deletion request.

If you previously opted to have your saliva sample and DNA stored by 23andMe but want to change that preference, you can do so from your account settings page, under Preferences.

If you previously consented to 23andMe and third-party researchers using your genetic data and sample for research purposes, you can withdraw that consent from your account settings page, under the Research and Product Contents section.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you have concerns, you can contact your state attorney generals office. Find yours at www.naag.org/find-my-ag/.

Source: Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia

What states are doing

In the past five years, at least 14 states have passed laws regulating direct-to-consumer genetic testing offered by companies like Ancestry and 23andMe. Theres variation, but generally the laws require companies to get customers express consent before using or sharing their data, and allow customers to request their genetic data be deleted and biological samples destroyed.

Its a good start, but doesnt go far enough, said Anya Prince, a University of Iowa law professor whose research focuses on health and genetic privacy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Many of those state efforts were built around a model law developed by the Coalition for Genetic Data Protection, an industry group with two member companies: 23andMe and Ancestry.

As DNA testing kits exploded in popularity and attracted increased scrutiny from lawmakers, the coalition pushed to influence legislation and set industry standards. The privacy protections in the laws mirror what 23andMe and Ancestry were already doing with their own privacy policies, experts say.

They do have some really sensible privacy protections, said Prince. Its great that people can delete their genetic data, and its great that law enforcement needs a warrant to access it. But if a privacy advocate had written a model law, there would be the potential for more and broader protections.

For example, she said, many of the state laws address privacy requirements just for direct-to-consumer DNA testing companies. If 23andMes data is bought by, say, a pharmaceutical company, those state laws no longer apply.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The coalition now appears to be inactive, its website defunct.

Since 2020, more than a dozen states have passed some version of a genetic information privacy law, including Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Kentucky, Maryland, Montana, Nebraska, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia and Wyoming, based on a Stateline analysis. This year, the Indiana legislature passed a bill thats now headed to the governors desk. Bills have been introduced this year in other states, including West Virginia.

Prince said state laws rely too heavily on consumers to self-manage their data privacy. Theyre expected to understand a companys policy, when studies have shown the public often doesnt read privacy notices nor fully understand how companies use their data. Further, many state laws dont address how third parties, such as law enforcement, can access and use consumer genetic data.

Its also not always clear how the laws will be enforced, or whos responsible for oversight.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In general, I think theres a disconnect between how people think their privacy is protected and how its actually protected, she said.

But a few states have enacted laws that are more robust. California, for example, has a genetic information privacy law, but also has a general data protection law, as well as a state version of the federal GINA law that extends genetic anti-discrimination protections into areas including housing, education and licensing.

Florida has beefed up its DNA privacy laws in recent years, making the using or selling of an individuals DNA without informed consent a felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. Florida was also the first state to prohibit life, disability and long-term care insurance companies from using genetic information to determine coverage.
The Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office announced it is pursuing 25 new animal cruelty cases, including 18 felonies filed over the last six weeks.

The cases, according to D.A. Nathan Hochman, highlight his offices attempts to bring to justice those accused of violently abusing animals.

On Tuesday, Hochman held a press conference alongside local law enforcement leaders and members of the D.A.s Office investigatory team to announce the charges in the various cases.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you harm an animal in our community, we are watching you  and we will find you, Hochman said in a release issued Tuesday afternoon. Animal cruelty is a serious crime. Its also a red flag for possible future violence and we treat it exactly as it should be treated  with zero tolerance and aggressive prosecution.

Among those charged with felony animal cruelty are:

Esteban Garcia, 28, who is accused of dropping a dog on her head, kicking her, and then throwing her into a stack of tires where she was left to die. The dog, a 5-year-old bulldog named Adriana, survived and is receiving care by the Animal Assistance League of Orange County. It was later revealed the dog had illegal drugs in her system.



Joseph Melnyk, 51, is accused of throwing his girlfriends 4-year-old terrier mix off of a balcony at her Hollywood apartment during a domestic dispute. The dog, Charlie, died from its injuries and, and a medical examination determined the dog suffered previous abuse. This crime, Hochmans office said, is an example of animal cruelty coming as an extension of domestic violence.



Marc Ibanez, 27, is accused of dragging a dog behind a business in Santa Fe Springs and stabbing it with a sharp object. The dog, a 9-year-old German shepherd named Leo, suffered lacerations to its forehead and chest. A 13-inch piece of glass with dog hair embedded in it was found near the scene.



Micheala Urquidi, 22, is accused of strangling a 2-year-old American Bully that he was pet-sitting at a home in San Fernando. The dog, Chula, was found dead inside the home by its owners.



Blaise Prymmer, 23, is accused of trying to hang his familys dog at their La Verne home. Unsuccessful, he then beat the dog, an older corgi/chihuahua mix named Hope, with a crowbar until she died. He told authorities that the dogs barking was preventing him from sleeping.



Emmanuel Perdomo, 43, was charged with felony counts of animal cruelty and arson, for allegedly setting fire to an animal cage with a cat inside, then disposing the the animals body, kicking it and photographing it.



Miguel Abadmunoz, 44, is accused of using a butane torch to set a 10-year-old Siamese cat on fire in the Pico-Union neighborhood. The cat was later euthanized due to the severity of its injuries.



Arturo Morales, 55, is accused of running a cockfighting ring out of his backyard. Los Angeles County Sheriffs deputies discovered a bag of dead roosters, including one with a blade attached to its leg, along with multiple cages labeled with names and weights, but no food or water. Nearby, a refrigerator containing hematopoietic stimulant was found, officials said. Fighting chickens are often injected with stimulants to enhance their aggression, according to the Animal Legal and Historical Center.



Donald Jeffes, 40, was charged with felony animal cruelty on April 21, after surveillance cameras inside a downtown L.A. apartment building captured him allegedly carrying his dog, Rusty, by the collar and whipping him several times with a metal chain.



Alexander Cueva, 28, faces charges for felony animal cruelty after video appeared to show him dragging his young German Shepherd mix by the neck, slamming her to the pavement and the kicking her in the face as she lay motionless. Hes then seen riding away on his skateboard and dragging the dog out of frame.

These felony cases were all investigated by local law enforcement agencies, and potential sentences range from three years in county jail to as many as 13 years in state prison.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Our Department is working closely with Los Angeles County Animal Control, the Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office, and community partners to ensure all cases of animal cruelty are fully investigated and prosecuted, Sheriff Robert Luna added.

LAPD Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton said investigators pursue animal cruelty cases with integrity and intensity.

Despite the loss of our Animal Cruelty Task Force in early 2021, we take animal cruelty investigations seriously, and we investigate these cases in a manner that lead to the successful arrests and prosecutions of the alleged suspects, Hamilton said.

Those who witness serious instances of animal abuse are urged to call 911 and file a report. Otherwise, reports can be made by contacting your local animal services agency or law enforcement agencys non-emergency line.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Additional information about the various types of animal cruelty, and how to recognize and report them, 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 KTLA.
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WREG)  Three former Memphis police officers have been acquitted of state charges in the beating death of Tyre Nichols after he ran away from a traffic stop in 2023.

It took more than eight hours over two days for a jury to reach its verdict, finding all three officers  Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, and Justin Smith  not guilty on all charges. Each former officer faced seven charges:

One count of second-degree murder

One count of aggravated assault  act in concert

Two counts of aggravated kidnapping

Two counts of official misconduct

One count of official oppression

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Each defendant faced the highest charges possible for the crimes, but the jury could also choose from a list of lesser charges for each count or find them not guilty of the charges. The jury, which appeared to be all white, consisted of eight women and four men.

The three defendants still face the prospect of years in prison after they were convicted of federal charges last year, though they were acquitted of the most serious charges then, too.

Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man, fled a traffic stop after he was yanked out of his car, pepper-sprayed and hit with a Taser. Five officers who are also Black caught up with him and punched, kicked and hit Nichols with a police baton, struggling to handcuff him as he called out for his mother just steps from his home. Nichols died Jan. 10, 2023, three days after the beating.

Footage of the beating captured by a police pole camera also showed the officers milling about, talking and laughing as Nichols struggled. His death led to nationwide protests, raised the volume on calls for police reforms in the U.S. and directed intense scrutiny of police in Memphis, a majority-Black city.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Former Memphis officer Desmond Mills Jr., who was also charged in Nichols death, testified as a prosecution witness.

Mills and another officer involved in the beating, Emmitt Martin, have agreed to plead guilty to the state charges and did not stand trial under deals with prosecutors. They also pleaded guilty in federal court, where sentencing for all five officers is pending.

The officers had been charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct and official oppression.

Defense attorneys attempted to refute accusations that the officers used excessive force to subdue Nichols and followed police policies and standards. Defense attorneys have said the officer who acted with the most violence was Martin, who kicked and punched Nichols several times in the head but is not standing trial.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The defense also seemed to score points with their use-of-force experts, who testified that officers on trial acted in compliance with police department policies and widely accepted law enforcement standards. Attorneys for Bean and Smith called character witnesses who testified that the men were good men and officers who did their job the right way.

Mills testified that he regrets his failure to stop the beating, which led to Nichols death from blunt force trauma. Nichols suffered tears and bleeding in the brain, Dr. Marco Ross, the medical examiner who performed the autopsy, said in court testimony.

As Nichols struggled with Bean and Smith, who were holding him on the ground, Mills tried to pepper-spray Nichols, but he ended up spraying himself, he said.

After stepping away to try to recover, Mills then walked up to Nichols and hit his arm three times with a police baton. Mills told prosecutor Paul Hagerman that he hit Nichols with the baton because he was angry over the pepper spray.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But Mills also said Nichols was actively resisting arrest and not complying with orders to present his hands to be cuffed.

During the trial, defense attorney John Keith Perry asked Mills if he would have struck Nichols with the baton if Nichols had just put his hands behind his back. Mills said no.

Martin Zummach, Smiths attorney, asked Mills if an officer is safe if a suspect is not handcuffed and searched for a weapon. Mills said they were not safe in that circumstance. Nichols was not searched before he ran from the traffic stop.

Mills acknowledged that the officers were afraid and exhausted, but said some of the methods used on Nichols complied with police department policies, including using wrist locks and hitting with a baton.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Zummach noted in closing arguments that credit and debit cards that did not belong to Nichols were found in his car when it was searched after the beating and said it was likely why Nichols ran from the traffic stop. Defense lawyers have argued that the fatal beating would not have taken place if Nichols had just allowed himself to be handcuffed.

This is Emmitt Martins and Tyre Nichols doing, Zummach said.

The defense also suggested Nichols was on drugs, giving him the strength to fight off five strong officers. Some mushrooms containing the hallucinogenic psilocybin were also found in his car, a TBI agent testified. However, a toxicology report showed Nichols only had alcohol and a small amount of marijuana in his system.

Mills admitted Nichols never punched or kicked any of the officers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In December, the U.S. Justice Department said a 17-month investigation showed the Memphis Police Department uses excessive force and discriminates against Black people.

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 Queen City News.
Tyre Nichols' brutal beating death in 2023 was caught on camera

Five Memphis officers had been charged in connection with his death

Two of them had pleaded guilty to state and federal charges stemming from the killing

Three officers who were present during the brutal killing of a Tennessee man have been found not guilty on all state charges, including murder, stemming from the 2023 case.

Justin Smith, Demetrius Haley and Tadarrius Bean were among five officers charged in Nichols' brutal beating outside his mother's home in January 2023. A jury acquitted them on Wednesday, May 7, following a trial in Memphis, Tenn., the Associated Press reported.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Nichols, a 29-year-old aspiring photographer who loved skateboarding, was stopped by officers for alleged reckless driving on Jan. 7, 2023. However, Memphis Police Chief C.J. Davis would claim to CNN soon afterwards they were unable to "substantiate" the reckless driving allegation.

facebook Tyre Nichols

Former Memphis officer Desmond Mills Jr., one of two officers who pleaded guilty to state charges, testified for the prosecution, per AP.

Officers were caught on camera allegedly beating Nichols and laughing as he lay struggling, per the AP.

Related: Tyre Nichols' Last 3 Words Were, 'Mom, Mom. Mom,' Says Lawyer, as Family Calls for Peaceful Protests

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Footage of Nichols' killing, which was released by Memphis officials, sparked massive protests across the country.

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.

The officers had been charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, multiple counts of misconduct and official oppression.



While they were acquitted on the state charges, Smith, Haley and Bean are awaiting sentencing on their conviction on federal charges last year, per AP.



Read the original article on People
Why is May 9 so important to Russians?

14:08, May 07, 2025 By Yuan Meng, Elena Davydova, Zhang Wenjie ( People's Daily Online

2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the victories of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War, and the World Anti-Fascist War. Victory Day on May 9 commemorates the Soviet Union's defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945, and remains one of Russia's most significant celebrations. Each year, the country holds a parade and fires ceremonial salutes. Why is the day so important for Russians? Join People's Daily Online reporter Elena Davydova to find out!

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Wu Chaolan)
Someone emailed threats to three progressive New York City politicians Tuesday afternoon, with one of the threats including a bomb threat and another menacingly referring to a mass shooting, according to police sources. The sender sneeringly referred to the elected officials as woke lunatics.

Cops were alerted to three separate threats, which were sent to the offices of Council members Althea Stevens of the Bronx and Crystal Hudson of Brooklyn, as well as state Sen. Michael Gianaris of Queens, sources said.

The first incident was reported to police around 2:25 p.m. at the office of District 16 Council member Stevens, near Jerome Ave. and W. 170th St. in Mt. Eden. An email was sent around 2:06 p.m. by a person unknown to the office, referring to threats to Council women supporting progressive policy and stating there was a bomb planted inside the bathroom stall of the office, plus another bomb planted near the mail collection area that was going to distract police.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It was determined that there were no bombs at the location.

Another threat was received around the same time at the Queens office of state Sen. Gianaris, near Ditmars Blvd. and 45th Ave. in Ditmars Steinway. The specific nature of the threat in this incident was unknown.

The last threat was sent to District 35 Council woman Hudsons office, located near Hanson Place and Fort Greene Place in downtown Brooklyn, where five staff members in her office received the menacing email. It was unclear if Hudson herself personally received a threat directly sent to her.

Hi, im comming [sic] to burn down the office and mass shoot every one of you woke lunatics. Im a current police officer who is fed up and you will all pay with your lives, the email said.

Both Hudson and Stevens are members of the Councils Progressive Caucus.

There were no arrests in the incidents as police were investigating the threats.
A 3-year-old girl is in critical condition after she was shot inside a home in Hanford, according to police.

Hanford police on Monday described the shooting as accidental and said the gun was fired Saturday morning by one of four other children at the home. The ages of the other children range from 6 to 10 years.

A 29-year-old man tried fleeing the residence with the discharged handgun, police said. He has since been arrested on suspicion of multiple charges, including criminal storage of a firearm.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Under California laws, it is a crime to carelessly store a firearm on property if its known or should be known that anyone younger than 18 years old is likely to gain access to it without parental permission.

With a child seriously injured in this case, the suspect, whose relation to the child was not immediately known, could face the harshest of three levels of punishment for criminal storage of a firearm.

Thats a felony that could result in 16 months to three years in jail and a fine of up to $10,000. The Bee is not naming the suspect to protect the identity of the children.

Should the suspect face a lesser misdemeanor charge, he could get up to one year in jail and a fine up to $1,000.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thats for the reckless gun storage violation.

The shooting happened early Saturday at a home in the 1900 block of Emma Lee Lane, where officers found the 3-year-old girl shot in her abdomen.

Detectives also located the mother of the 3-year-old, as well as the four other children, along with a 20-year-old.

Investigators determined the children had gotten up early and found the gun unsecured in the kitchen. As the children were handling the firearm, one of them accidentally shot the 3-year-old, Hanford police said.

Police said the man who was arrested entered the room after the shooting occurred, grabbed the gun and fled the home.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hanford Police Street Crimes Unit investigators tracked him down and arrested him Monday.

He was booked into Kings County Jail and faces additional charges of destruction of evidence, prohibited person in possession of a firearm and felony child endangerment.

Just last month in Northern California, a 3-year-old boy died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and his grandfather was charged with felony first-degree criminal storage of a firearm.

Starting in January 2026, Senate Bill 53 goes into effect and requires a person who possesses a firearm in a residence to keep the firearm securely stored when the firearm is not being carried or readily controlled by the person or another lawful authorized user.

SB 53 also requires gun owners to properly store their firearms whether or not its known a child could obtain access to the firearms and cause injury.
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  Three juvenile are in custody after a car police say was stolen crashed on the West Side.

Read next: YPD makes 4th juvenile gun arrest in week

The car, which was reported stolen in Austintown, was spotted about 11:30 a.m. by city police who chased it after it failed to pull over.

The chase ended when the car crashed into a tree at Connecticut and Brockway avenues. The three males were arrested there.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They are all being taken to the Mahoning County Juvenile Justice Center.

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.
Correction: According to the King County Prosecuting Attorneys Office, 31 people were arrested. Previously, this number was thought to be 32.

Over 30 people were arrested Monday night during a protest at the University of Washington. According to the King County Prosecutors Office, all were arrested for Criminal Trespass in the First Degree, which is a gross misdemeanor, and not for felony offenses.

Pro-Palestinian protesters occupied the Interdisciplinary Engineering Building (IEB) around 5 p.m. Monday, and things escalated later in the night after one of the barricades the group put up caught fire.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

SUPER UW, the group that organized the protest, told KIRO 7 they were upset about the schools continued ties with Boeing and how the company paid millions to build the IEB. That same spokesperson went on to say, they want the UW to divest from Boeing, rescind Boeings donation, turn the IEB into a different space, and end the persecution and repression of pro-Palestinian students and Palestinians on campus.

We are having a peaceful protest. We are occupying a building, but we are not endangering anyone. We are treating everyone with respect in this process, said Hal, a spokesperson with the group.

The King County Prosecuting Attorneys Office confirmed that four of the 31 protesters arrested made their first court appearance Tuesday. One of the 31 was scheduled to have a first appearance hearing Tuesday afternoon but posted bond. The remaining 26 of 31 were expected to have a first appearance court hearing Wednesday morning, but each of those also posted bond Tuesday, in line with court rules. According to the Prosecuting Attorneys Office, those 26 are not required under court rules to appear in court Wednesday at a first appearance hearing for those gross misdemeanor arrests.

UW posted the following statement about Mondays protest:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dear UW community,

Late yesterday afternoon, a group identifying themselves as the suspended student organization SUPER UW posted on social media that they were occupying the Interdisciplinary Engineering Building on the Seattle campus and asked for other groups to join them. These groups temporarily occupied and vandalized the building before being arrested by law enforcement officers from UWPD, the Seattle Police Department and the Washington State Patrol. They also set fire to dumpsters in a nearby street after blocking exits in the IEB and blocking nearby streets to delay firefighters access.

This was no peaceful protest in support of Palestinian rights or against the war in Gaza. I condemn this dangerous, violent and illegal building occupation and related vandalism. I also condemn in the strongest terms the groups statement celebrating the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas terrorist attacks against Israeli civilians. The University will not be intimidated by this sort of horrific and destructive behavior and will not engage in dialogue with any group using or condoning such destructive tactics. We will continue our actions to oppose antisemitism, racism and all forms of biases so that ALL our students, faculty, staff and visitors can feel safe and welcome on our campuses.

King County jail staff are working to identify the roughly 30 people who were arrested, so at the moment we do not know how many are UW students or community members. We are working with law enforcement and through our own disciplinary processes to ensure those responsible face appropriate consequences for their actions. And we will continue to stand strong against violent and illegal activities that create a hostile environment for any and all members of our community. I want to thank the members of UWPD and our law enforcement partners for their assistance in bringing this situation to a swift resolution.

According to a spokesperson for the university, there is a very early estimate of $1 million in damage to some equipment in one room, but there is no estimate on damages in the rest of the building yet.
ANDERSON  Over the past 16 months, officials with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency have removed 32 people illegally in the country from Madison County.

Madison County Sheriff John Beeman said Monday that as of April 15, there were seven inmates at the county jail being held awaiting action by the federal agency.

He said the federal agency checks jail log and dispatch records to determine if an ICE warrant hold is enforced.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Beeman said local charges are first processed, and then the immigration hold is put into effect.

He said there are 700,000 warrants nationwide for illegal immigrants wanted on criminal charges.

Beeman said a hearing must take place before a determination is made on whether or not a person is in the country illegally.

He said the federal response has increased since President Donald Trump took office for his second term.

Madison County Prosecutor Rodney Cummings said there is more activity than in the past, which can be attributed to President Trumps aggressive push to remove illegal immigrants.

The federal government is taking a more aggressive role when it comes to people in this country illegally and committing crimes, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cummings said if people who are here illegally are committing crimes, ICE will put a hold on them.

Its a federal enforcement and its their responsibility, he said. The sheriff is more closely involved.

The way I see it right now is, ICE has a threshold crime, Cummings said. ICE is checking the jail log of every county on a daily basis.

He said ICE is a federal law enforcement agency, and if they find someone who reaches the threshold, a hold is placed on them.

They have a threshold of the kind of crimes or the amount of an illegal drug in a persons possession, he said.

Indiana Gov. Mike Braun signed an executive order in January directing all state agencies to work with ICE.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to Brauns order, state law enforcement groups are required to work with ICE and report credible evidence of illegal aliens to the Indiana Intelligence Fusion Center if the person:

 Has a prior criminal history and/or is suspected of committing a felony

 Is suspected of engaging in hostile activities, including espionage, economic espionage, and/or terror-related activities

 Presents a significant threat to national security or public safety

The order applies to every state-level law enforcement agency, including the Indiana State Police and the law enforcement divisions of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Department of Corrections, and the Indiana Gaming Commission.

The order does not directly apply to local and county law enforcement, but includes language encouraging such agencies to follow the states lead.
DALLAS COUNTY, Iowa  A 36-year-old former farm employee has been arrested for allegedly intentionally causing a fuel leak that spilled into a creek in Waukee.

Aaron Wayne Peek, of Des Moines, was taken into custody Tuesday night and is facing charges for 1st-Degree Theft, 1st-Degree Criminal Mischief and Trespassing, according to a news release issued by the Dallas County Sheriffs Office.

Aaron Wayne Peek, 36, of Des Moines, was arrested on Tuesday for allegedly intentionally causing a fuel leak that spilled into a Waukee creek.

Dozens of rescued bats released back into the wild in Des Moines

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The incident, which reportedly happened in the middle of the night Saturday at 27099 U Ave., listed as Manning Ag Service online, spilled approximately 4,000 gallons of diesel fuel onto the property. The value of the fuel lost was more than $10,000, and the estimated cost of the environmental cleanup was over $100,000. The fuel later reached Little Walnut Creek, where mitigation efforts are ongoing.

The news comes less than 24 hours after Dallas County Sheriff Adam Infante confirmed to WHO 13 that a criminal investigation was underway. Investigators said Peek was caught on camera and identified by witnesses.

Mitigation efforts at Little Walnut Creek in Waukee

The Dallas County Emergency Management Agency and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, with cooperation from the property owner, are working in conjunction with numerous local agencies on mitigating the diesel spill, said the Sheriffs office.

Metro News:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 who13.com.
Four area men have been arrested as part of an FBI child sex crime bust.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The nationwide crackdown looks to identify, track, and arrest sex predators across the country.

The FBI arrested 205 people and rescued 115 children across the country during the operation, according to a media release.

TRENDING STORIES:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Those over 200 people included four area men:

William Clark Shepherd, a former Cincinnati-area resident, was arrested in Orange County, CA on April 28, 2025. He is charged with coercion and enticement of a minor after contacting a minor male victim on Roblox and later exchanging sexually explicit photos

Brett Jarrett Farley , of Delaware, OH, was arrested by the FBI on Thursday, May 1, 2025. Farley is accused of production/manufacturing of child sexual abuse material involving a minor in Louisiana

Dakota Michael English , of Middletown, OH, was taken into custody on Friday, May 2, 2025. English is charged with distribution of child pornography and possession of child pornography. He is accused of using the Kik app to share child pornography

Philip Michener, of Cambridge, OH, was arrested by the FBI on Thursday, May 1, 2025. Michener is accused of distribution, receipt, and possession of child pornography after prior conviction. FBI special agents seized several electronic devices from Michener which contained over 1,000 images and 400 videos of suspected child pornography

Tips can be sent to the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), or online at tips.fbi.gov.

[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA)  The Charlotte County Sheriff fired four deputies for covering up their bodycams during an arrest in Sarasota County earlier this year, according to NBC affiliate WBBH.

The deputies failed to activate their body cameras, mislabeled videos, and neglected to file use-of-force reports, the report said.

Residents evacuated from Clearwater condo after cracks found in pillar underneath building

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A 21-page internal affairs investigation report detailed the Feb. 4 arrest, when a bondsman went to a homeless camp near Englewood Hospital in search of a woman with an active warrant.

The bondsman asked for assistance, and thats when Corporal Russell Epeards, DFC Sean OKeefe, Deputy Daniel Wilson, and DFC Timothy DeGrasse from CCSO responded to the scene, according to WBBH.

The responding officials did not find the woman, but located another man with an active warrant. Body camera video shows the man running from the scene before later being physically detained using hands-on force and Tasers, the report said.

Nine days later, an employee noticed that their body cameras may have been improperly labeled as false activations, despite them using force, according to WBBH. The cameras were not turned on at initial contact, delaying the activation roughly an hour before the Tasers were used. None of the deputies reportedly filed the incident at the time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Im going to look for this bear: 911 caller in deadly bear attack describes scene to operators

Only OKeefe and Wilsons body cameras were activated by taser activations, while DeGrasse pushed the button to record as the suspect ran away. Video descriptions detail deputies chasing and trying to arrest the man in a wooded area in the homeless camp, WBBH reported.

One body camera video, once activated, shows Wilson tasing the man on his collarbone, as OKeefe screams profanities at the man, before the suspect is handcuffed.

Holstering a Taser and using it to coerce the individual to comply with them, which is not modern practice, Florida Southwestern State College Police Chief Jerry Connelly said. Its more if you unholster a Taser, you should be using it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The following deputies received violations, according to WBBHs report:

Deputy Daniel Wilson : Failed to activate BWC, improperly deployed Taser against suspects chest, did not file a Show of Force report, mislabeled video.

DFC Timothy DeGrasse : Failed to activate BWC, did not report hands-on force, falsely labeled video to avoid documentation.

DFC Sean OKeefe : Failed to activate BWC, used excessive foul language at the suspect, did not report Taser deployment or force used, mislabeled video.

Cpl. Russell Epeards: Failed to activate BWC, did not supervise his team appropriately, did not ensure proper documentation, and allowed group consensus to mislabel videos.

In a statement posted to the sheriffs office Facebook page, Sheriff Bill Prummell said:

I have always said that the trust our community has in us is integral to the work we do. Unfortunately, four individuals violated that trust recently, and when that happens, I must act. In this circumstance, I felt the only appropriate option was to withdraw their appointments as deputies of the Charlotte County Sheriffs Office, as their trust had been lost. While this decision was not one, I made lightly, our community needs to know that the men and women serving them are doing so with integrity and professionalism. If you have ever come to one of our monthly ceremonies, you know that I emphasize that these words are not just wall decorations around the agency  they are our way of life. Without integrity, you simply cannot work in law enforcement at least not under my watch. It is not often that I speak about an Internal Affairs investigation, but with this resulting in the dismissal of four members, I wanted to provide a little clarification to the community as to why. It is important to note that the men involved were not in violation of policy as it relates to the incident itself, but rather in the documentation of what happened. There was a conscious effort to conceal the incident for no other reason than laziness, which is where the integrity issue came in and ultimately resulted in the withdrawal of appointments. The bottom line is that we have worked very hard to earn your trust, and I vow to work just as hard to keep it. Be strong. Be safe. And never quit! Sheriff Bill Prummell

WFLA.com has reached out to the Charlotte County Sheriffs Office for additional information.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  Four men from Western New York, ranging in ages 20 to 68, were arrested and charged with possession of child pornography during a nationwide crackdown led by the FBI, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office.

Over the course of five days, Operation Restore Justice led to the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders nationwide, officials said.

The four men arrested were identified as Samari Thompson, 20, of Buffalo, Jamie Anderson, 25, of Buffalo, Matthew Kowalski, 25, of Kenmore, and Brian Keith, 68, of Niagara Falls.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Over 60 images and videos of suspected child pornography were allegedly found on a cellphone at Thompsons residence, including images and videos depicting infants.

Officials said Anderson and Kowalski were each sentenced to 10 years of probation for possessing a sexual performance of a minor in 2022 and 2024, respectively.

Apparent child pornography was allegedly uploaded to a Kik account traced back to Anderson. Images of suspected child pornography were allegedly found in Kowalskis possession during an unannounced home visit last month.

Keith was found to be in possession of child pornography on multiple devices in March and is a registered Level 3 sex offender, according to the attorneys office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Justice Department encourages the public to report suspected child exploitation through the FBIs tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling a local FBI field office.

Latest Local News

Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University.

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.
May 6WATERTOWN  In March 1990, five years after the 10th Mountain Division was reactivated at Fort Drum as one of the Army's new light infantry divisions, Michael S. McFadden arrived as an enlisted soldier.

"I grew up in southern Louisiana, so when I was walking from reception to my first unit, which you do when you are in light infantry, it was snowing," he recalled. "I was quite shocked."

It was a cool reception for the flight medic, but in those 35 years since he arrived here from Mandeville, Louisiana, McFadden, a 32-year Army veteran, has forged a relationship between Fort Drum and the local military community that grows stronger by the day. In July, he was named executive director of Advocate Drum, the organization that leads local efforts to protect and enhance the base's value to the military and community.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As Advocate Drum marks its 40th anniversary, McFadden is especially energized as he fills a gap in Advocate Drum leadership at the nonprofit. In 2018, New York cut Military Base Retention funds for six communities, including funding that went to help sustain Advocate Drum. The cut meant that Advocate Drum had no executive leader from 2019 until last July, when McFadden was hired, thanks to a $1 million grant from Empire State Development. In the spring of 2023, Thomas H. Carman, immediate past Advocate Drum board chairman, said, "If we don't have funding for Advocate Drum, we remain as we are, which is extremely flat-footed."

"Without an executive director for almost five years, the organization, in some ways, was kind of stagnant," McFadden said. "Obviously, the volunteers did a phenomenal job in terms of trying to keep Advocate Drum in the fight in advocating for Fort Drum in the local community."

In addition to an executive director, the advocacy is going a step further.

"One of the areas that fell to the wayside was the advertising, the branding of the organization," McFadden said. "When I came on board, we immediately worked to hire a marketing firm to help revamp our website, and to help us get back into the community, so people could truly understand Advocate Drum and what it is we do each day."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A crucial link

In 1985, the Fort Drum Steering Council was created following the decision by the Department of Defense in September 1984 that the 10th Mountain Division would be reactivated as a light infantry unit. The Steering Council, funded by the federal Office of Economic Adjustment (now called the Office for Local Defense Community Cooperation) and sponsoring local agencies, helped to build the north country's knowledge base regarding the Army's decision to station the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum. As local leaders and elected officials began to understand the impact, community development plans were addressed.

Funding provisions for the Steering Council expired in 1990. In its wake came the creation of the Fort Drum Regional Liaison Organization, designed to carry on the council's mission as a volunteer membership organization. FDRLO was rebranded as Advocate Drum in 2018 to better reflect its mission. Advocate Drum is also funded by Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties and by individual and corporate membership fees.

"Fort Drum, being the unique installation that it is, needed, and still needs an organization like this," McFadden said. "Fort Drum doesn't have a large medical facility on post, so a lot of significant health care issues come off post. There are no educational facilities on Fort Drum, all education happens for our children of the military off post. Those are two unique factors for Fort Drum that don't exist at most military installations. So, having an organization like Advocate Drum helps the link between the local community and the military installation."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

McFadden was involved in one of those earlier base-community links. In the early 1990s, there wasn't a civilian life flight in the north country. Fort Drum, with McFadden literally on board, was involved as the base began providing the service to the community. He was non-commissioned officer in charge of MAST  the Military Assistance to Safety and Traffic program, which involves using military resources like helicopters and medical personnel to assist in civilian medical emergencies, particularly highway crashes.

"Three or four times a week, I would fly medical evacuation missions in support of car and snowmobile accidents," McFadden said, and he became "ingrained" into the north country community.

"I would fly to local fire departments and demonstrate, 'How do you call us?' and how to interact with the Army, how to set up a landing zone to bring a helicopter in  all those types of things. That's when I started to get involved."

In 1991, McFadden met Sheryl Lynne Mallette, a Lowville native. They were married in 1993, live in Croghan and have three children. McFadden's military service took him away from Fort Drum but was again stationed with the 10th Mountain Division in 2010 as chief executive officer/task force commander for aviation and deployed to Eastern Afghanistan in support of medical evacuations for service members. He then advanced to deputy chief executive officer, overseeing the operating budget and leading planning and preparation of the organization for combat operations in Afghanistan.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Following his deployment to Afghanistan, McFadden served as the chief executive officer/task force commander in Ansbach, Germany, where he supervised the planning and execution of multiple training programs across Europe and NATO countries. His continued advance included deputy chief of staff for the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence, Enterprise, Alabama; director of aviation operations/chief of plan for the U.S. Army XVII Airborne Corps, Fort Bragg, North Carolina; and chief executive officer for the 3rd Combat Aviation Bridge, Savannah, Georgia/Europe.

Rallying the community

One of the successes of Advocate Drum over the years has been opposing about a half dozen versions of BRAC  Base Realignment and Closure processes, which look at reducing or eliminating military installations around the country. "Advocate Drum is at the forefront when it comes to rallying the community and speaking up on behalf of Fort Drum, whether it's our local or federally elected officials, to ensure that Fort Drum remains a viable military community," McFadden said.

Without Advocate Drum, the base would not have a point of contact to deal with such issues, he added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We meet regularly with the garrison leadership to sit down at least once a quarter to talk about issues happening on the installation or what issues we can potentially help them with. And we share potential issues here in the community with the installation."

Last week, annual figures were released reflecting the base's impact on the local economy when Advocate Drum and the Development Authority of the North Country released their annual economic impact study. It shows that for the federal fiscal year ending on Sept. 30, 2024, Fort Drum's total economic impact on the region was $2.55 billion, a slight increase from $2.5 billion from the year prior. That number includes $1.9 billion in direct spending in Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties, plus an extra $655 million in additional economic activity.

The economic impact of Fort Drum is evident across the community, and Advocate Drum is there to also help advocate for others. For example, "Advocate Drum was essential in spearheading the initiative for the Watertown YMCA new Aquatics Center project," said Shawna Cutuli, CEO of the Watertown Family YMCA. "With the help of Advocate Drum, we were able to secure a 9-million-dollar Department of Defense grant that helped build our new downtown YMCA. Funding opportunities like this would not be available without the unique relationship we have serving Fort Drum. The Watertown YMCA plays such an important role in supporting military families and the community."

Also last week, Empire State Development announced a $4 million award to support a $13 million project at Jefferson Community College aimed at keeping Fort Drum soldiers and their spouses in the area upon completion of their military service. The Dulles Building on JCC's Coffeen Street campus will be renovated and outfitted as the Next Move NY Vocational Training and Job Readiness Facility, which will enhance offerings at the college and further develop the workforce pipeline for transitioning soldiers and their spouses to help them attain local employment, according to ESD.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"It's basically to build our workforce talent with approximately 3,600 soldiers that leave Fort Drum each year, as well as veterans from other installations who are coming back here," McFadden said. "How do we get them into the workforce and help us build our overall workforce?"

Such advocacy is in the forefront today in Albany during the annual Fort Drum Day at the capitol.

"There's about 12 community members who are all heading down to set up tables and help educate our elected officials on the north country and its community, as well as being there to support Fort Drum as it's recognized on the floor," McFadden said.
Commentary: Pass the torch of peace from generation to generation

Xinhua) 16:17, May 07, 2025

White doves are released at the end of the commemoration activities marking the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 3, 2015. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)

History is a mirror, and only by drawing lessons from history can the world avoid repeating past calamities.

BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Eighty years ago, the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War marked a turning point in human history, opening a new chapter in building a better international order and pursuing lasting peace.

Today, the world has undergone dramatic transformations. Technology has connected distant corners of the globe, and globalization has brought nations closer than ever before. Yet, alongside these advances, new and complex challenges have emerged. Global uncertainty is rising, marked by power politics, unilateralism and division in ever-evolving forms.

As the world reflects on the lessons of history, humanity must confront some urgent questions: How can we safeguard the hard-won peace? How can we collectively address pressing global challenges? And most importantly, how can we forge a shared future for all?

As noted by Chinese President Xi Jinping at the general debate of the 70th session of the United Nations General Assembly back in 2015, history is a mirror, and only by drawing lessons from history can the world avoid repeating past calamities.

"We should view history with awe and human conscience. The past cannot be changed, but the future can be shaped. Bearing history in mind is not to perpetuate hatred. Rather, it is for mankind not to forget its lesson. Remembering history does not mean being obsessed with the past. Rather, in doing so, we aim to create a better future and pass the torch of peace from generation to generation," Xi said then.

VICTORY OF THE JUST

On the night of May 8, 1945, Germany signed the surrender document in Karlshorst, Berlin, marking the end of World War II (WWII) in Europe. Meanwhile in Asia, China's final major campaign against Japan -- the Battle of Western Hunan -- reached its decisive phase.

Japan's surrender aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay on Sept. 2, 1945, concluded WWII, humanity's deadliest conflict. More than 80 countries and regions, involving roughly 2 billion people, were drawn into the war, with the total casualties at over 100 million and economic losses exceeding 4 trillion U.S. dollars. Against fascist aggression, more than 50 countries, including China and the Soviet Union, formed a united front.

A ceremony presenting flower baskets to fallen heroes to mark Martyrs' Day is held at Tian'anmen Square in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 30, 2024. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

The world will never forget that as the main theater in the East of the World Anti-Fascist War, China made a national sacrifice of over 35 million casualties in its fight against the majority troops of Japanese militarism. During 14 years of fierce anti-fascist fighting, China engaged and tied down over two-thirds of the Japanese Army, inflicting 70 percent of Japan's wartime military casualties. These efforts significantly contributed to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War.

People from different countries stood with China in the common struggle. China will always remember the international support it received. For example, the U.S. "Flying Tigers" opened up the Hump Route for transporting emergency supplies; foreign doctors such as Norman Bethune from Canada and Dwarkanath Kotnis from India risked their lives to save others; German businessman John Rabe helped protect civilians during the Nanjing Massacre in 1937.

Equally significant was the Soviet Union's sacrifice and contribution on the European theater of World War II. From the Battle of Moscow to the Battle of Stalingrad and the Battle of Kursk, the Soviet people bore tremendous hardship and played a decisive role in defeating Nazi troops.

China's guards of honor take part in the rehearsal of the Victory Day parade in Moscow, Russia, April 29, 2015. (Xinhua/Pavel Bednyakov)

During the global anti-fascist war, China and the Soviet Union supported each other. Soviet air force volunteers fought alongside Chinese soldiers, during which over 200 of them lost their lives in China. Many Chinese, including Mao Anying, late Chinese leader Mao Zedong's eldest son, engaged in fighting against Nazi troops during the toughest time of the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War. This shared sacrifice forged a deep bond between the two sides.

The victory of the anti-fascist war shattered attempts of the fascists and militarists to dominate the world, ended the colonial divisions of the world by imperial powers, and laid the foundation for a new vision of global peace and cooperation.

REBIRTH OF THE WORLD

This year also marks the 80th founding anniversary of the United Nations. The opening words of the UN Charter -- "We the peoples of the United Nations determined to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, which twice in our lifetime has brought untold sorrow to mankind" -- stand as a powerful testament to the hard-won lessons of two catastrophic world wars.

More than just a historical reflection, these words convey humanity's ardent desire for lasting peace.

Born from the ashes of World War II, the United Nations represents humanity's efforts to move away from a world governed by the law of the jungle and a world order of Western-dominated hierarchies.

From the Westphalian and Vienna systems to the Versailles-Washington system, the old order divided the world into dominant powers, and nations they colonized and oppressed.

In a historic shift, the UN Charter enshrines the principle of sovereign equality, affirming for the first time in international law that all nations, irrespective of size, strength or wealth, are equal. That became the cornerstone for the postwar international order.

File Photo taken on June 26, 1945 shows Dong Biwu (front), representative of the Communist Party of China, signing the Charter of the United Nations, San Francisco, U.S. (Xinhua)

Anchored in the UN Charter, principles such as sovereign equality, non-interference in other's internal affairs, peaceful settlement of disputes and prohibition of the use or threat of force have evolved into bedrock norms of international relations. The UN system's creation has established not merely institutional platforms for cooperation, but transformed the very architecture of global governance.

Under the guidance of the spirit of the UN Charter, national liberation movements swept across the globe. Many countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America cast off the shackles of colonialism and gained national independence and sovereignty.

International law thus began to genuinely safeguard the rights and interests of developing countries. A more open and inclusive international community has replaced the West-centric paradigm of an exclusive "civilized nations club," a solid and far-reaching step toward lasting peace for humanity.

China has actively participated in founding the United Nations and shaping the postwar international order. On June 26, 1945, China was the first country to sign the UN Charter. Before that, the Chinese delegation strongly defended the interests of small- and medium-sized countries, and insisted that "independence" be enshrined in the UN Charter as the goal of the International Trusteeship System despite pressure from the West. Such efforts exemplified China's unwavering commitment to defending international fairness and justice.

The postwar international order has consolidated the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, established the fundamental norms of modern international relations, curtailed military expansionism, and advanced global peace and development.

Since its inception 80 years ago, the United Nations has grown into the most universal, representative and authoritative intergovernmental organization in the world, carrying humanity's shared aspirations for a better future.

CALL OF THE ERA

Over the past 80 years, the absence of global-scale wars has allowed the world to enjoy sustained peace. Emerging economies, including China, have risen collectively, while economic globalization has deepened, turning the world into an interconnected "global village" through expanding cross-border exchanges and cooperation.

At the same time, a new wave of technological and industrial transformation is reshaping economies, societies and international relations. The benefits of this largely peaceful era have created a level of global prosperity unprecedented in human history.

However, beneath the surface of peace flow some turbulent undercurrents. Unilateralism and protectionism are on the rise, with some politicians in the West obsessed with dividing the world along ideological lines, forming exclusive blocs and fueling a "new Cold War" mentality.

Even more, the United States openly disregards international norms, engages in economic coercion, imposes punitive tariffs and elevates domestic law above international law.

Such hegemonic behavior undermines the UN-centered international system, challenges the international order underpinned by international law, and threatens the very foundation of global peace and development.

A China-Europe freight train bound for Moscow of Russia waits for departure at a logistics center in Beijing, capital of China, April 16, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhang Chenlin)

As UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned, "Everywhere we look, peace is under attack."

The world is once again at a crossroads. Should the world uphold multilateralism and seek common ground, or allow unilateralism to grow unchecked? Should the world support more democratic international relations, or accept that power politics rules everything? Should the world follow international law and basic diplomatic norms, or return to a world where the strong dominate the weak?

History offers the clearest lessons. Firstly, peace must be defended. The terror of Nazi tyranny and the atrocities in Nanjing Massacre showed that war destroys civilization, while peace allows it to grow.

Secondly, unity is essential for the survival of human civilization. When fascism and militarism were tearing the world apart, the signing of the Declaration by United Nations by 26 nations in 1942 showed that ideological divisions can be overcome, and shared human values can bind nations together.

Thirdly, the tide of history cannot be reversed or resisted. The fall of colonialism, the end of the Cold War and the rise of developing countries all show that the logic of "might makes right" does not last. A multipolar world is the way forward.

Fourthly, rules are not tools for the powerful to abuse. Instead, they are the foundation of fairness and justice. The principles in the UN Charter, including sovereign equality and bans on aggression, remind humanity that without rules, the world risks sliding into chaos.

As a victor in World War II as well as a founder and defender of the post-war order, China has consistently stood on the right side of history and on the side of civilization and human progress.

From advancing high-quality Belt and Road cooperation to launching the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, and from promoting a community with a shared future for mankind to offering ideas and solutions for global and regional challenges, China supports true multilateralism through concrete actions. It is working to make global governance fairer and more balanced, while contributing stability and positive momentum to world peace and development.

The majority of the world has come to recognize China as a pivotal force in safeguarding world peace and stability. As noted by UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher, initiatives China proposed around peace and security, global development and cultural cooperation closely align with the UN's core mission of peacemaking, humanitarian efforts and global security.

The concept of "a community with a shared future for mankind" is another key idea that highlights global solidarity and "the world coming together, not pulling apart," Fletcher told Xinhua, adding that such a concept has created "partnerships that we really need if we're to meet the challenges ahead of us, including climate change."

As partners who fought side by side in World War II, China and Russia continue to work together today to uphold global strategic stability. They coordinate closely within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS, jointly opposing hegemonism and power politics, and promoting a more multipolar world and economic globalization through true multilateralism.

Meanwhile, emerging markets and developing countries are rising as a collective force. The awakened Global South is gaining strength, confidence and a greater voice in global governance. The forces for peace and development have never been more robust.

French writer Victor Hugo once observed: "Memories are our strength. When night attempts to return, we must light up the great dates, as we would light torches." The significance of marking the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War lies in illuminating the path ahead, and reaffirming humanity's unwavering commitment to enduring peace.

At this new crossroads in history, what humanity needs is not the drumbeat of a new Cold War, but the call for cooperation; not claims of civilizational superiority, but a spirit of shared prosperity; not a return to the law of the jungle, but a renewed commitment to a shared future.

Only by following this path can the world prevent the tragedies of history from repeating themselves and turn the vision of lasting peace and sustainable development into reality.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  Five people were arrested after a capsized panga at Torrey Pines State Beach resulted in the deaths of at least three migrants, U.S. Department of Justice officials said on Tuesday.

The DOJ said the five detained were Mexican nationals. Julio Cesar Zuniga-Luna, 30, and Jesus Juan Rodriguez-Leyva, 36, were charged with Bringing in Aliens Resulting in Death and Bringing in Aliens for Financial Gain, and Melissa Jenelle Cota, 33, Gustavo Lara, 32, and Sergio Rojas-Fregosa, 31 were charged with Transportation of Illegal Aliens.

Zuniga-Luna and Rodriguez-Leyva face a maximum penalty of death or life in prison and a $250,000 fine for the Bringing in Aliens Resulting in Death charge, per the DOJ.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rojas-Fregoso was also identified as an undocumented immigrant who had previously been deported in December of 2023, officials said.

The boat was spotted early Monday morning near the 12000 block of North Torrey Pines Road, according to the San Diego County Sheriffs Office.

Law enforcement confirms three bodies were recovered, including a 14-year-old boy from India identified in court records as P.P.B. The boys 10-year-old sister is still missing at sea and presumed dead, while his father is in a coma and his mother is also hospitalized, officials said.

The San Diego County Medical Examiners Office identified the second deceased person as 18-year-old Marcos Lozada-Juarez. The third body recovered has not been identified at this time pending notification of next of kin.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Monday, local officials said witnesses and some of those rescued from the boat said as many as 18 people were on the vessel, including alleged smugglers. The DOJ said on Tuesday that eight of the nine suspected migrants had been accounted for, with the exception of the girl.

The DOJ described that after the boat capsized, a vehicle was seen by witnesses leaving the area.

Later that night, Border Patrol agents in Chula Vista found the vehicle and two others and conducted a stop.

During the investigation, Border Patrol Agents identified two other vehicles that were involved in the smuggling event and were able to successfully stop and arrest the drivers of these load vehicles and locate eight of the nine migrants missing from the boat, with the exception of the 10-year-old sister of P.P.B., the United States Attorneys Office Southern District of California said in the release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Consulate General of Mexico in San Diego on Tuesday released a statement, saying that they are in close communication with local authorities to provide the necessary consular assistance to the victims and their families.

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.
Five Mexican nationals are facing charges after a small boat carrying more than a dozen people capsized off the coast of San Diego, killing three passengers, including a 14-year-old boy from India, the U.S. Attorney's Office in the Southern District of California announced Tuesday.

The boy's parents and two others were hospitalized following the human smuggling event, prosecutors confirmed in a news release. Nine other migrants were missing from the boat and were presumed dead, but authorities later located eight of them in Chula Vista, nearly 30 miles away from Del Mar, where the boat was found. A 10-year-old Indian girl, the boy's sister, remains missing, prosecutors said.

"The drowning deaths of these children are a heartbreaking reminder of how little human traffickers care about the costs of their deadly business," U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon said in a statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

U.S. Border Patrol said Tuesday that there were originally 16 individuals on board, some of whom remain missing.

Jesus Ivan Rodriguez-Leyva and Julio Cesar Zuniga-Luna were arrested on Monday at the beach where the overturned boat washed ashore, according to prosecutors. They were charged with Bringing in Aliens Resulting in Death and Bringing in Aliens for Financial Gain, the U.S. Attorney's Office said.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on Tuesday night announced that she will request the Department of Justice to seek the death penalty.

"Their deaths were not only avoidable but were also the direct result of the greed and indifference of smugglers who exploited them," Noem said in a statement, in part. "Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, alien smuggling acts that result in death are capital crimes punishable by death. And under the Federal Death Penalty Act, those who intentionally participate in conduct knowing that it could result in the loss of life may be eligible for capital punishment."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Prosecutors said three other suspects  Melissa Jennelle Cota, Gustavo Lara and Sergio Rojas-Fregoso  were arrested late Monday night after Border Patrol agents in Chula Vista identified a vehicle seen at a beach in Del Mar and investigated. While the driver of said vehicle fled, officers located two other vehicles involved and found the missing migrants, according to prosecutors.

Cota, Lara and Rojas-Fregoso were charged with Transportation of Illegal Aliens. Prosecutors said Rojas-Fregoso had been previously deported on Dec. 19, 2023.

It wasn't immediately clear if the suspects had attorneys who could speak on their behalf.

It was unclear where the boat was coming from before it flipped about 35 miles north of the Mexico border, U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer Chris Sappey told The Associated Press. He said similar vessels were commonly used by smugglers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2023, eight people were killed when two boats capsized off the San Diego coast.

Why Hegseth is calling for cuts to senior ranks across U.S. military

The rise of "Barstool Conservatism"

Student loan borrower shares her story as collections resume for those in default
President Trump has not been shy about voicing his displeasure with leading news organizations he feels were either against him during last falls presidential election or covered the first few months of his second term unfairly.

Hes also used the power that comes with the White House as leverage in his battles, including keeping one outlet out of the White House travel pool. Trump has done all of this while becoming a fixture in media, with near daily appearances from the White House and other locations.

Here are five media outlets that have landed in Trumps crosshairs during his first 100 days.

CBS

Trump is suing CBS News and its parent company Paramount Global over an interview with then-Vice President Kamala Harris the network published as part of a 60 Minutes broadcast just days before the election.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump alleges the program intentionally edited the Harris interview to cast her in a positive light, a claim that his Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr has indicated he believes could constitute a legitimate news distortion complaint.

Executives at Paramount have signaled an eagerness to settle as the company looks to secure a megamerger with moviemaker Skydance that will need the administrations regulatory approval.

60 Minutes throughout the legal drama has maintained aggressive coverage of the Trump administration, including a segment Sunday featuring attorneys and law firms the president has targeted with executive orders.

If Paramount ultimately settles with Trump out of court, the episode would serve as a major victory for the president in his war on the media, roil staffers inside CBS News and serve as a capitulation to executive power by one of the largest media conglomerates in the country at what many see as the expense of its premier news program.

NPR

Public broadcasters like NPR and PBS have long faced attacks from Republicans and allies of Trump, but in his second term the scrutiny theyve faced has reached a seemingly all-time high.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump issued an executive order last week calling for the defunding of NPR and its member stations, citing what the administration calls NPRs failure to present a fair, accurate, or unbiased portrayal of current events to tax paying citizens.

Meanwhile, a push to defund NPR has gained steam in Congress, with its CEO Katherine Maher facing an intense grilling from Republican lawmakers during a hearing last month over the public media companys editorial decisionmaking.

Defenders of NPR and public broadcasters argue that stripping federal funds from the outlet and its member stations could have devastating impacts on local communities, particularly rural areas where they say there is a dearth of local news reporting.

Trump nonetheless says he is determined to take taxpayer dollars out of NPRs budget, and he has used his bully pulpit to place direct pressure on lawmakers appropriating funds to the broadcaster each year.

AP

When Trump announced he was renaming the Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America, The Associated Press said it would not update its stylebook to reflect the change.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That decision led the White House to ban the AP from the White House press pool, a body the West Wing took complete control of days later.

The AP sued the White House over the decision and won, but Trump has not backed down from his repeated attacks on the wire service, which he has characterized as partisan and against him.

The AP, Trump said during an event in late February, has been very, very wrong on the election on Trump and the treatment of Trump and other things having to do with Trump and Republicans and conservatives.

And theyre doing us no favors, he added. And I guess Im doing them no favors. Thats the way life works.

The Atlantic

Journalist Jeffrey Goldberg, The Atlantics editor in chief, landed arguably the biggest scoop of Trumps first 100 days when he was mistakenly added to a group chat with a number of top intelligence and defense officials.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The chat included a discussions about plans for an attack in Yemen, including information on military strikes that appeared to be sensitive.

Singalgate, as it became known, served the latest dose of fuel in Trumps long-held disdain for The Atlantic, with the president and his allies working overtime to discredit Goldbergs reporting in the days after his bombshell story was published.

I dont know anything about it. Im not a big fan of The Atlantic; to me its a magazine that is going out of business, Trump said last month when asked about the reporting.

During his first term, Trump was enraged by a story published in The Atlantic that alleged he had referred to 2,200 U.S. soldiers who fought and died in World War I as suckers and losers before a visit to a French cemetery where they are buried. He denied the reporting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As he has with other media enemies, Trump has shown a willingness to grant access to outlets he has been sharply critical of.

The president late last month sat for a wide-ranging interview with Goldberg and other journalists from The Atlantic, which sparked headlines with quotes from Trump saying he now runs the world.

The Wall Street Journal

Perhaps more than any other right-of-center national publication, The Wall Street Journal has been loudly pushing back on Trumps policies, particularly on trade and the economy.

Trump over the weekend refused to answer a question from a Journal reporter aboard Air Force One, calling the outlet he worked for a rotten newspaper.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Wall Street Journal is China-oriented, the president said. And theyre really bad for this country.

Those comments echoed criticisms Trump has for years leveled against Rupert Murdoch, the Journals billionaire owner and a business executive the president has called a globalist trying to tear me down.

The Journal contends its frequently Trump-critical opinion pages operate separately from its newsroom, which this week won a Pulitzer Prize for extensive reporting on Trump ally Elon Musks personal and private life.

But Trump has made it clear he sees the Journals coverage of and commentary on him as a reflection of Murdochs views on the decisions he is making.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ive been right over The Wall Street Journal a number of times, Trump said just days into his second term as he hosted Murdoch in the Oval Office. I dont agree with him on some things.

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.
Five people were charged after a boat carrying migrants overturned Monday near San Diego, killing a 14-year-old boy from India and at least two other people, authorities said.

The group, all Mexican nationals, were charged in two federal complaints, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of California said in a news release Tuesday.

They have been identified as Jesus Ivan Rodriguez-Leyva, 36; Julio Cesar Zuniga-Luna, 30; Melissa Jennelle Cota, 33; Gustavo Lara, 32; and Sergio Rojas-Fregosa, 31.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Zuniga-Luna and Rodriguez-Leyva were arrested Monday on charges of bringing in aliens resulting in death and bringing in aliens for financial gain, the U.S. attorney's office said. They were found at a beach in Del Mar where witnesses saw the overturned panga-style boat.

Cota, Lara and Rojas-Fregosa  who officials said were deported in December 2023  were charged with transportation of illegal aliens.

The Coast Guard, lifeguards and sheriffs deputies assisted in the search. Law enforcement recovered three bodies, including the teenagers.

Four other people were rescued and hospitalized, including the teen's mother and father, who is in a coma, the U.S. attorney's office said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It was initially believed that nine people from the boat were missing. Eight of them were found Monday night after Border Patrol agents found a vehicle in Chula Vista, California, that had been at the scene of what authorities said was a smuggling incident.

"The driver of the vehicle fled the scene. During the investigation, Border Patrol Agents identified two other vehicles that were involved in the smuggling event and were able to successfully stop and arrest the drivers of these load vehicles and locate eight of the nine migrants missing from the boat," the news release said.

The remaining missing person is the teen's 10-year-old sister, who is believed to still be missing at sea and is presumed dead, the U.S. attorney's office said.

"The drowning deaths of these children are a heartbreaking reminder of how little human traffickers care about the costs of their deadly business," U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon said in a statement. "We are committed to seeking justice for these vulnerable victims, and to holding accountable any traffickers responsible for their deaths."

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
President Joe Biden stepped back into the political spotlight on Wednesday with his first post-presidency interview, sitting down with BBCs Nick Robinson.

The pair discussed NATO, the war in Ukraine, Donald Trumps first 100 days back in office and whether or not Biden believes he stepped out of the 2024 election campaign too late.

Of Trump, JD Vance and Volodymyr Zelenskyys fiery Oval Office discussion at the end of February, Biden said, I found it sort of beneath America, the way that took place.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He added, And the way you talk about now, well its the Gulf of America, maybe well have to take back Panama, maybe we need to acquire Greenland, maybe Canada should be  what the hell is going on here? No president ever talked like that?"

Were about freedom and opportunity, not about confiscation, Biden said.

Biden does not believe he stepped out of the campaign too late

Robinson asked Biden if he left the presidential campaign too late in the election cycle, and Biden responded, I dont think it would have mattered. We left at a time when we had a good candidate. She was fully funded.

Trump ended the race with 312 electoral votes and a majority of the popular vote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Harris spent $1.5 billion in her 15-week campaign, per The New York Times, while Trump spent $1.4 billion in his 103-week campaign, per Open Secrets.

And what happened was  I meant what I said when I said I was ready to hand this to the next generation, the next generation of government, but things move so quickly that it made it difficult to walk away. It was a hard decision, but I think it was the right decision. I think that it was just a difficult decision," Biden said.

Biden reiterated the prospect of dropping out sooner, saying, I dont know how that would have made much difference.

Biden: Trump is not behaving like a Republican president

When originally asked if Biden believed Trump was behaving like a king, the former president declined to comment, but added, Hes not behaving like a Republican president.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The former president went on to assess the state of the U.S. right before Trump was inaugurated.

When I left office, we had created more jobs than any president in the history of the United States in one term, our economy was roaring, we were moving in a direction where the stock market was way up, we were in a situation where we were expanding our influence around the world in a positive way, we were increasing trade, we regained control of what we invented  the control of the future of computer chips  we were in a situation where there was growth, opportunity ..." Biden said.

Then commenting on Trumps first 100 days in office, Biden said, I dont see anything that was triumphant.

Biden said there is a need for NATO

During his administration, Biden aided Finland and Sweden in accession into NATO, and during the interview, he criticized the Trump administration for not prioritizing the military alliance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While media groups have speculated that Trump will remove the U.S. from NATO during his presidency, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has maintained that the U.S. remains committed to the NATO alliance and to the defense partnership with Europe. Full stop, per his speech at the Ukraine Defense Contract Group in February.

However, the Trump administration says it will no longer tolerate an imbalanced relationship which encourages dependency. Rather, our relationship will prioritize empowering Europe to own responsibility for its own security.

Meanwhile, Biden said the prospect of NATO dying is a grave concern.

It would change the modern history of the world if that occurs, he explained. We are not the essential nation, but were the only country with the capacity to bring people together, to lead the world, and otherwise, youre going to have China and the former Soviet Union Russia stepping up.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Biden added that NATO saves us money overall.

Does Trump really pose a threat to democracy?

Biden said he believes there is a greater threat to democracy now then at any time since the Second World War.

Look at the number of European leaders and European countries that are wondering, what do I do now? What is the best route for me to take? Can I rely on the United States? Are they going to be there? Biden said.

He continued, Instead of democracies expanding around the world, theyre receding. And democracy is  every generation has to fight for it."

BBC asked if Biden agrees with claims from the Trump administration that European countries are freeloading off the U.S. with NATO.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No, they dont have a point, Biden said. Almost all of them are 2% right now, but what theyve done is, you know, when we were attacked, what happened on 9/11? They all responded, supported us. Look, imagine there being no NATO. Do you think Putin would have stopped at Ukraine? Do you think Putin would have stopped, I just dont understand how they dont see there are benefits from alliances.

Biden called Trumps handling of the Ukraine war modern day appeasement

Putins attack on Ukraine foreshadows a similar future for other former Warsaw Pact territories, Biden said, and he defended his administrations approach of providing Ukraine with military aid.

He believes in historical rights to Ukraine. What this man wants to do is reestablish the Warsaw Pack, Biden said of the Kremlin.

Biden added hes afraid that countries situated along Russias boarder will give up some of their land to Russia.

Given the criticism that Biden held Ukraine back from being able to win the war by refusing to give long range weapons, the former president said, We gave them everything they needed to provide for their independence, and we were prepared to respond more aggressively if Putin moved again, but this is a tricky thing.
May 6A 59-year-old motorcyclist died after colliding with a minivan Monday in Blanchard, Idaho.

At about 12:20 p.m., a woman from Blanchard was driving south on State Highway 41 in a 1998 Chrysler Town and Country when she tried to turn left onto Clagstone Road, according to an Idaho State Police news release.

The motorcyclist, also of Blanchard, was traveling at what the ISP described as a "high rate of speed" north on the highway and hit the passenger side of the minivan, troopers said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The woman was taken to an area hospital, and the motorcyclist, who was not wearing a helmet, died at the scene, the release said. ISP did not release the identities of the woman or man.

The highway was blocked for about three hours. ISP is investigating.
LONDON (AP)  The Russian spy ring used code names from the movies, with the ringleader calling himself Jackie Chan and his sidekick Mad Max, or Jean-Claude Van Damme. Their underlings were dubbed Minions from the animated Despicable Me franchise.

But police said their fanciful pseudonyms masked a deadly serious operation in the United Kingdom and around Europe.

Behind those nicknames was an extremely sophisticated intelligence-gathering operation that posed a threat to national security and individuals, including journalists," Cmdr. Dominic Murphy, counterterrorism chief at Londons Metropolitan Police, said after three members of the ring were convicted at trial in March.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This was industrial-scale espionage on behalf of Russia," Murphy added.

On Wednesday afternoon, the six Bulgarian nationals face the start of a multiday sentencing hearing in Londons Central Criminal Court that could put them behind bars for up to 14 years in prison for espionage convictions.

Orlin Roussev, 47, and his lieutenant Biser Dzhambazov, 44, pleaded guilty to espionage charges and having false identity documents. Ivan Stoyanov, 33, a mixed martial arts fighter, admitted to spying for Russia.

Katrin Ivanova, 33, Vanya Gaberova, 30, and Tihomir Ivanov Ivanchev, 39, were convicted by a jury in March of conspiring to spy for an enemy state.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Prosecutors said they put lives in danger as they carried out surveillance on behalf of Russian intelligence to target reporters, diplomats and Ukrainian troops.

The defendants carried out operations in the U.K., Austria, Spain, and Montenegro between 2020 and 2023. They spied on a U.S. air base in Germany where they believed Ukrainian troops were training, and discussed kidnapping or killing Kremlin opponents.

Roussev worked for alleged Russian agent Jan Marsalek, an Austrian national who is wanted by Interpol for fraud and embezzlement after the 2020 collapse of German payment processing firm Wirecard, prosecutors said. His whereabouts are unknown.

In one operation, a group of them tried to lure a Bulgarian journalist who uncovered Moscows involvement in the 2018 Novichok poisoning of a former Russian spy in Salisbury, England, into a honeytrap romance with Gaberova.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The spies followed Bellingcat journalist Christo Grozev from Vienna to a conference in Valencia, Spain, and the gang's ringleaders discussed robbing and killing him, or kidnapping him and taking him to Russia.

Roussev, who worked out of a former guesthouse in the English seaside resort town of Great Yarmouth, harbored a trove of spy equipment that police described as Aladdins Cave when it was raided.

They discovered loads of spy cameras, hidden in sunglasses, pens, neckties and cuddly toys that included a Minion. Technology used to jam wifi and GPS signals were found, along with eavesdropping devices and car trackers.

Dzhambazov, who worked for a medical courier company but claimed to be an Interpol police officer, was in a relationship with both the women  his laboratory assistant partner Ivanova and beautician Gaberova.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gaberova, in turn, had ditched painter-decorator Ivanchev for Dzhambazov, who took her to Michelin-starred restaurants and stayed with her in a five-star hotel. When police moved in to arrest the suspects in February 2023, they found Dzhambazov naked in bed with Gaberova rather than at home with Ivanova.

Both women claimed during the trial that they had been deceived and manipulated by Dzhambazov.
AUSTIN, Texas (AP)  Six people in a rural Texas county, including two City Council members and a school board trustee, have been indicted in a widening elections investigation led by Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton, bringing felony charges to a case that Latino rights activists have criticized as politically driven.

The top executive in Frio County, home to about 18,000 residents, a county elections worker and a local resident were also among those indicted on May 1, Paxton said Wednesday. The charges expand an investigation that included raids last year on the homes of Latino campaign volunteers near San Antonio, including an 87-year-old woman, although none of them have been indicted.

Most of the six are charged with what is known in Texas as vote harvesting, a felony that often involves payment for collecting and dropping off other people's absentee ballots. Several of the officials indicted in Frio County are accused of using Cash App to pay for vote harvesting services.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The people of Texas deserve fair and honest elections, not backroom deals and political insiders rigging the system. Elected officials who think they can cheat to stay in power will be held accountable, Paxton said in a statement.

The League of United Latin American Citizens last year called for a federal investigation into Texas authorities after its members homes were raided. No charges have been filed against any targets of those searches, according to spokesperson David Cruz, and the organization said it had not made decisions on whether to represent those who were indicted.

Gabriel Rosales, the Texas director for LULAC, called the charges unsubstantiated.

This is voter suppression 101, he said. Theres no vote harvesting going on. Theres nobody creating these ballots. Thats a lie.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The vote harvesting charges are third-degree felonies and carry up to 10 years in prison. Those accused are Frio County Judge Rochelle Camacho, the county's top official; Pearsall City Council members Ramiro Trevino and Racheal Garza; Pearsall ISD Trustee Adriann Ramirez; and Frio County resident Rosa Rodriguez.

Another official, former Frio County Elections Administrator Carlos Segura, is charged with tampering with evidence.

The only word I have right now is that its ridiculous, Segura said. He added that his lawyer advised him not to speak further.

Camacho, Trevino, Garza and Ramirez did not immediately respond to phone calls or an email requesting comment. A number could not be found for Rodriguez.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The indictments were the latest development in an investigation that Paxton started after the 2020 election to root out voter fraud, which is rare and typically occurs in isolated instances. Texas has tightened its voter laws in recent years and increased penalties that Democrats and opponents say are attempts to suppress turnout among Black and Latino voters.

Investigators with the Texas Attorney Generals Office were first told of allegations of vote harvesting by Mary Moore, who was Camachos opponent in the March 2022 Democratic primary for county judge, according to search warrant affidavits.

Moore accused Camacho of hiring a woman who had been collecting mail ballots for candidates in Frio County for nearly three decades. Moore alleged that the woman charged candidates anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500 to collect mail ballots, applications for ballot by mail and to even drive people to vote curbside, according to the affidavit.

Investigators allege that the vote harvesting scheme targeted elderly people at a Pearsall subdivision. Camacho and Ramirez, who were identified in court documents as sisters, allegedly took part in an effort in October 2022 to gather mail-in ballots from residents there, according to the affidavit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigators allege the woman who was Camacho's main vote harvester hid ballots underneath her shirt and used different vehicles to throw off investigators.

Segura would provide the woman with information on when ballots were mailed and delivered, investigators allege.

A federal appeals court last year upheld the state's law that tightened voter restrictions and increased penalties for vote harvesting.

___

Lozano contributed from Houston. Lathan is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
China, European Parliament agree to lift restrictions on mutual exchanges: Chinese foreign ministry

(People's Daily App) 15:37, May 07, 2025

China and the European Parliament have decided to simultaneously and fully lift restrictions on mutual exchanges as agreed by the two sides, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian confirmed during a routine press conference on May 6, 2025.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  The 61st District Court joined Grand Rapids students on May 1 for National Law Day.

Judges collaborated with Grand Rapids Public Schools to host a student essay contest. The theme was The Constitutions Promise: Out of Many, One.

Winners were announced at an event at C.A. Frost Middle School. Dominick Henriott-Jauw won first place, Trenton Boda won second and Corwin McGee won third.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chief Judge Angela Ross presented the winning students with their certificates. Students also got a gift card.

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.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC)- Emmett Henry is a little boy with big dreams of becoming a nuclear scientist. His training ground is the R.E. Ginna Clean Energy Center.

Ive been obsessed with it since I was two and I just think its really cool.

Henry is seven and for five years hes been visiting the nuclear power plant in Ontario, New York about 20 miles northeast of Rochester. We live nearby and one day we were driving by, and he just looked at it and was like Im gonna work there someday. explains Ashley Fedigan, Emmetts mom.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Emmett is well on his way. Hes toured the facility several times and on Tuesday, May 6 he was suited up and ready for the annual siren test. With his lab coat, headphones and special credentials from Constellation Energy Corporation, Emmett watched and listened as 96 sirens blared. He notes its cool but a little scary to hear the testing. He knows its done to ensure the public is safe in the event of an actual emergency.

The 7-year-old says he wants to be a problem solver and will one day become a nuclear engineer and president of the United States. Emmett shows off his model nuclear reactor control panel and explains his bedroom is filled with model sirens and other replicas from the plant. Hes always asking to learn more and see more about Ginna says Fedigan.

He has viewed the nuclear reactor from a helicopter and learned about the construction of the center, and its designer along with the plants and wildlife on the 426-acre property along the south shores of Lake Ontario. During this visit, Emmett got some safety training with a simulated fire extinguisher.

In addition to becoming a nuclear scientist and president, Emmett says one day hes going to run the Ginna Energy Center.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 RochesterFirst.
NEW YORK CITY (PIX11)  Seven new public schools will open in New York City this September, serving grades K-12 in Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island and the Bronx.

The new schools  four high schools, one primary school, one middle school, and one serving grades 2-8  will seat 3,842 new students, education officials announced Monday.

More Local News

Each school focuses on different aspects of learning, including a healthcare career-focused high school in partnership with Northwell Health.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Each of these schools embodies an innovative model tailored to meet the unique needs of our diverse communities, Public Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos said.

In Queens, a new high school will focus on newly arrived multilingual learners, and in Brooklyn, a new school will target challenged readers much like the South Bronx Literacy Academy. One of the new schools in Brooklyn will integrate artificial intelligence and assistive tools.

Last year, the city opened nine new public schools in the Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens, including three middle, four pre-K and two high schools.

More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State

These are the seven new schools opening in New York City in September 2025:

The Bronx STEAM Center Serves high school students in Bronx Districts 8, 10 and 11

Central Brooklyn Literacy Academy Serves grades 2-8 in District 17 in Central Brooklyn

Middle School of Innovation Serves grades 6-8 in District 21 in South Brooklyn

HBCU (Historically Black College & University) Early College Prep High School Serves high school students in District 29 in Queens

Northwell School of Health Sciences Serves high school students in District 30 in Queens

Queens International High School Serves high school students in District 24 in Queens

Staten Island Rise Academy P.S. 89 Serves grades K-5 in District 75 on Staten Island



Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.

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 PIX11.
A water rescue took a dramatic turn this week when a fire crew ended up in the churning Yakima River along with the men they were trying to save.

The rescuers and two stranded rafters were swept downstream about 30 yards before being pulled to safety by other emergency responders.

And the $72,000 emergency boat sent to save them sank in the turbulent waters.

Sheriffs Lt. Mike Clark said a freak accident caused the Benton County rescue boat to get sucked under the current of the irrigation diversion dam near Richland as the crew was trying to help the rafters.

A crew member from Benton County Fire District 2 stands on a rescue boat near the Wanawish Dam on the Yakima River.

One fire official stayed on board the capsizing boat for about an hour before he had to leap to safety to another sheriffs department boat.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Later, about 10 p.m., county officials managed to pulled the boat free and tow it to a Benton City fire station to assess the damage.

The Benton County Sheriffs Office uses its jet boat on the Yakima River at Wanawish Dam to assist in the rescue of a firefighter who became stranded on a fire rescue boat.

Yakima River rescue

The rafters were apparently on the river in an official capacity Monday when they drifted beyond the warning signs and accidentally went over the treacherous Wanawish Dam near Horn Rapids, getting stuck in the strong undercurrent.

The Wanawish Dam is off Highway 240 near the Hanford nuclear site and near Highway 225.

Diversion dams have short drop-offs but the deadly undercurrents can trap boats and swimmers.

One of the rafters managed to call 911 for help at 11:45 a.m. Monday and rescuers from Benton County Fire District 2 in Benton City launched their special emergency boat.

Benton County Fire District 2 and the Benton County Sheriffs Office shared the cost of the $72,000, 18-foot tunnel-hulled jet boat used for water rescues.

The 18-foot custom jet boat purchased three years ago is designed to run in only inches of water between the Tri-Cities and Prosser, especially during low-water summer conditions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At the time, Fire District 2 and the Benton County Sheriffs Office split the cost, and members of the fire department were trained in swift water rescues.

On Monday, the emergency boat ended up fully submerged within a few hours after it got pulled down into the turbulence at the base of the dam.

Benton County Sheriff Tom Croskrey posted a photo of the submerged Benton County Fire District 2 rescue boat involved in Mondays rescue.

The rescue crew on the boat and the rafters were tossed into the water and carried down the river, where the water was calmer and shallow enough for them to stand up. They were pulled to safety by dive rescue members and others.

One of the rafters was treated for mild hypothermia.

Officials from Fire Districts 2 and 4, the sheriffs office, Richland fire department, Columbia Basin Dive Rescue and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife helped in Mondays efforts. A Fire District 4 firefighter also was hurt but the extent of the injury was not released.

Its unclear what the cost will be to repair the damaged boat.
GRAND COUNTY, Utah (ABC4)  A 77-year-old man visiting Arches National Park died after falling on a hike Tuesday, May 6.

Rudolf Peters  from Haltern am See, Germany  fell while hiking on the primitive section of The Windows Loop trail, an area with extremely uneven steps and fewer trail markers, according to the National Park Service.

Officials said bystanders began CPR as park rangers, Grand County EMS deputies, medical personnel, and a helicopter responded to the scene. Peters, however, was declared dead at the scene.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Grand County Sheriffs Office and the National Park Service are working together to investigate the cause of his death. Currently, there is limited information on what led to the fatal incident.

Visitors are reminded that uneven surfaces, changeable weather, and preexisting health conditions are all important factors to consider when choosing a safe and enjoyable hike, NPS officials said.

According to the latest NPS data available, the majority of deaths in Arches National Park involve individuals 55 years or older and are typically a result of heat, medical incidents, or falling.

Latest headlines:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  After a busy session on Utahs Capitol Hill earlier this year, 584 bills were passed. Now, on Wednesday, May 7, roughly 400 laws and policies will go into effect.

The bills range from school safety and homelessness to flags and fluoride, but here are a select few you may want to know about.

S.B. 142  App Store Accountability Act

As part of Utahs continued push to hold digital services, such as social media platforms, accountable for their content, Utah lawmakers passed S.B. 142.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The App Store Accountability Act forces app stores on both Android and Apple devices to require age verification in order to download apps. Specifically, the bill prohibits enforcing contracts, such as a Terms of Service Agreement, for accounts belonging to minors without parental consent.

Under this bill, parents or guardians would be required to give consent for apps, and app developers would have to verify that consent through the app store. The bill also opens avenues for parents or guardians of minors harmed by a lack of enforcement to sue app stores.

H.B. 77  Flag Display Amendments

One of the more controversial and followed bills in the 2025 General Session, H.B. 77, otherwise known as the Flag Display Amendments bill, bans the display of certain flags on government property.

The ban notably impacts public classrooms and restricts political flags from being shown, including pride flags, political movement flags, or any flag that is not listed as an exception, such as state flags, country flags, or municipality flags.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

SLC council unanimously pass Pride, Juneteenth themed city flags ahead of state flag ban

H.B. 81  Fluoride Amendments

A bill that garnered national attention, H.B. 81 goes into effect on May 7, officially making Utah the first state in the nation to ban fluoride in public water systems. The bill was passed as a matter of individual choice on whether or not to have fluoride in the water.

And while Utahs water will no longer undergo fluoridization, the bill does allow for pharmacists to prescribe fluoride tablets as an alternative way of getting the benefits, should they want to.

H.B. 249  Nuclear Power Amendments

In the 2025 General Session, Utah moved one step closer to bringing nuclear energy to the Beehive State. With the passing of H.B. 249, Utah will create the Nuclear Energy Consortium, the Utah Energy Council, and an Energy Development Investment Fund, starting May 7.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bill is part of Utahs plan to combat the looming energy crisis the state faces with a rising population. While the Consortium will be tasked with providing knowledge and expertise, the Council will oversee energy projects, such as storage and development of power plants.

H.B. 300  Amendments to Election Law

Another controversial bill that made its way through the legislative session was H.B. 300, and it goes into effect starting today. The bill makes a few significant changes to how Utahns will vote by mail, including phasing out signature verifications on mail-in ballots and sending out mail-in ballots by default.

By 2029, Utahns will be required to opt in to receive a mail-in ballot and will be required to place the last four digits of their drivers license, state ID, or social security number on their ballot return envelopes.

H.B. 322  Child Actor Regulations

A bill that sets up protections for child actors, including those who appear in content made for social media, such as YouTube, is set to go into effect on May 7.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

H.B. 322 requires parents or guardians to set up a trust fund for the child actor, where a portion of earnings from the content can be placed. Among other protections, it also gives minors the right to delete any content made while they were underage once they turn 18.

How to protect your teeth after the fluoridation ban: DHHS offers tips

H.B. 403  SNAP Funds Amendments

H.B. 403 starts the process to prevent soft drinks from being eligible to be purchased through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The bill, which went into effect on May 7, directs the Department of Workforce Services to file a waiver to the U.S. Department of Agriculture by July 1.

The waiver would request authorization to stop the use of SNAP benefits to buy soft drinks, which, if approved, would begin enforcement within six months. DWS would then be required to track the public health outcomes of the restriction and renew the waiver every year.

H.B. 505  Homeless Services Revisions

Among a list of revisions made to address homelessness in the state, H.B. 505 makes it a Class C misdemeanor to camp out on state property without explicit permission. This includes the use of tents, motor vehicles, cots, beds, sleeping bags, or cooking with a campfire, propane stove, or other cooking equipment, according to the bill.

Latest headlines:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Thursday marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day, the end of World War II in Europe. It's also the 80th anniversary of a heroic U.S. Air Force mission that should remain a source of inspiration for America now.

U.S. planes dropped tons of life-saving food into the famine-ravaged Netherlands at the end of World War II. The Dutch people were dying of starvation. The Allies reached agreement with the German occupying forces to do the food drops starting in late April 1945.

America's Operation Chowhound started about a week before VE Day. Britain's Royal Air Force also did its own food drops, called Operation Manna, and Canadian forces began to bring food in by truck. It took great preparation for the U.S. and Allies to build up food stocks and personnel for the task  especially amid the war.

A B-17 bomber aircraft drops food parcels in May 1945 on Schiphol in the Netherlands as part of Operation Chowhound. The American effort delivered food to starving areas at the end of World War II in Europe.

Millions of lives were saved in the Netherlands because of the Allied hunger relief mission. Think of all the children who were rescued from deadly malnutrition. Two decades later the countries involved in the relief of the Netherlands would come together to help create the United Nations World Food Program, which fights hunger on a daily basis.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We should remember this because hunger is a powerful enemy all its own. We can't afford to neglect hunger now. Sadly, the Trump Administration has shut down U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), our lead humanitarian agency.

The shutdown of USAID and the reduction in humanitarian funding is a tragic mistake. If we had ignored the hunger caused by World War II, there would have been famine and chaos throughout Europe. We never could have won the peace.

Protesters rallied in Washington, D.C. in February to oppose cuts to the U.S. Agency for International Development, better known as USAID.

And we cannot today, either, unless we fight hunger. Food and humanitarian aid are among the few stabilizing forces in a world in which there is so much conflict and drought. In addition, global food aid is such a relatively small part  not even 1%  of the U.S. budget. Far more money is spent on armaments than global food aid.

U.S. farms also benefit from having their food used in hunger relief missions overseas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We should be boosting our global food aid now, as there is famine in Sudan and numerous other hunger emergencies. Wars in Gaza, Congo, Ukraine, South Sudan and other areas are worsening hunger. Haiti, Yemen, Syria, the Sahel Region, Malawi and many other areas need hunger relief.

U.S. leadership is needed to fight hunger and promote stability. We can't withdraw from that responsibility. Congress needs to step up to get USAID and humanitarian programs running again and fully funded.

The U.S. Food for Peace program, which was started by President Dwight Eisenhower, especially needs a funding boost. Part of the program funds life-saving nutrition for malnourished infants around the globe, an even greater need in the wake of the USAID takedown. We have to get back into action like the U.S. and Allies were at the end of World War II, fighting hunger and saving lives.

The pilots who took part in Operation Chowhound thought it was the greatest mission: dropping food to save lives. That should remind us of the powerful spiritual impact of our global food aid programs. Compassion must be stronger than any other force in the world. That is what America is about and we can't lose that.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lets stop the budget cuts and shutdowns to humanitarian aid. Let's get back into action fighting hunger with heart and will.

William Lambers is an author who partnered with the UN World Food Program on the book "Ending World Hunger." His father, Vincent, was with the U.S. Army in the liberated section of the Netherlands during World War II.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Celebrate VE Day 2025 like the Allies did: Feed the hungry | Opinion
On May 5, gunfire erupted during a Cinco de Mayo event at The Collective, a popular food hall in Oklahoma City, injuring nine people

Police believe two shooters were involved in an altercation that led to the violence, but the investigation is still ongoing

The Collective wants to provide counseling for employees and set up a fund to help victims with medical expenses

Seven people were shot and two others were injured by flying glass during a shooting at a popular Oklahoma City food hall.

The shooting took place on May 5 at The Collective, a food hall and bar in Oklahoma City, police said, according to The Oklahoman, KOCO news and KFOR.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Around 11 p.m., police responded to multiple reports of shots being fired at The Collective, according to the outlets. When officers arrived on scene, they found numerous gunshot victims.

The Oklahoman reported that four of the shooting victims were in critical condition but were expected to survive.

The Collective was reportedly hosting a Cinco de Mayo event that evening, with the Oklahoma City Thunder playoff game airing on televisions throughout the food hall, when police say an altercation broke out and shots were fired, according to The Oklahoman.

Police believe two people were firing guns and no arrests have been made yet.

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.

Now, the foodhall is focusing on the cleanup, providing mental health and counseling services to its employees, Nathan Wiewel, a spokesperson for The Collective told The Oklahoman. He added the business is setting up a fund to help victims with medical bills.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We love Oklahoma City here at The Collective, and our hearts go out to everyone who was affected by this situation, Wiewel said to the outlet. Its really upsetting and it just breaks our heart, but we are praying and were really routing for the recovery of Oklahoma City and Midtown from this situation.

The investigation into the shooting is still in the early stages, police told the outlets.

Read the original article on People
Nine U.S. Senators urged Paramount and chairwoman Shari Redstone to fight Donald Trumps lawsuit against 60 Minutes, saying in an open letter Wednesday that a settlement would be a grave mistake that would amount to capitulation to authoritarianism.

The signatories, including Bernie Sanders, Richard Durbin and Elizabeth Warren, are made up entirely of Democrats and independents who caucus with them. The entire letter is below:

Dear Ms. Redstone:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As you know, in a blatant attempt to intimidate the media and those who speak out against him, President Trump sued CBS for $20 billion because of a 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris he did not like.

In March, Paramount, the parent company of CBS, did the right thing by filing two motions to dismiss Trumps case, calling it an affront to the First Amendment that is without basis in law or fact and asserting that: In our system, the remedy for disagreement with political speech one does not like is counter-speech not court-enforced damages under the guise of commercial regulations.

We, and most legal experts who have reviewed this case, could not agree more. This lawsuit is an attack on the United States Constitution and the First Amendment. It has absolutely no merit and it cannot stand.

In the United States of America, presidents do not get to punish or censor the media for criticizing them. Freedom of the press is what sets us apart from tin pot dictatorships and authoritarian regimes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Unfortunately, it appears that Paramount is now seeking to settle this case with Trump for as much as $75 million. In our view, that would be a grave mistake. We urge you and Paramounts board of directors to reconsider.

Rewarding Trump with tens of millions of dollars for filing this bogus lawsuit will not cause him to back down on his war against the media and a free press. It will only embolden him to shakedown, extort and silence CBS and other media outlets that have the courage to report about issues that Trump may not like.

We urge you and the board of directors at Paramount to make it clear to President Trump today that Paramount will not surrender to his attack on the First Amendment.

As Walter Cronkite, who was described as the most trusted man in America, once said: Freedom of the press is not just important to democracy, it is democracy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Stand up for freedom of the press and our democracy. Do not capitulate to this dangerous move to authoritarianism.

Sincerely,

Bernard Sanders, United States Senator

Christopher S. Murphy, United States Senator

Richard J. Durbin, United States Senator

Jeffrey A. Merkley, United States Senator

Sheldon Whitehouse, United States Senator

Elizabeth Warren, United States Senator

Richard Blumenthal, United States Senator

Edward J. Markey, United States Senator

Peter Welch, United States Senator

The post 9 Senators Urge Shari Redstones Paramount to Fight Trumps 60 Minutes Lawsuit: Settlement Would Be Grave Mistake appeared first on TheWrap.
May 7 (UPI) -- Reptile wranglers in Florida said they believe they set a new local record for the Miami area when they removed 98 iguana eggs from a single yard.

Humane Iguana Control said personnel responded to a home in the Miami suburb Palmetto Bay on a report of iguanas burrowing in the yard.

"We removed 98 eggs," Michael Ronquillo, owner of Humane Iguana Control, told WOFL-TV. "Three female iguanas had nested in burrows that were all interconnected, and each had laid her own clutch."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The business said officials believe the egg collection could be a new local record.

"It's the most eggs we've ever removed from a single site," Ronquillo said. "We couldn't find another case of that many being pulled out at once."

Iguanas are considered to be an invasive species in Florida.

"By preventing a significant new infestation, we not only protected this neighborhood from potential damage but also mitigated health risks," Humane Iguana Control said on social media. "The homeowner was initially shocked by the discovery but ultimately relieved and grateful for our team's success in locating and removing all the eggs."
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. We hope for a unique development of relations between Iran and Azerbaijan within the framework of regional cooperation, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, President of Institute for Political and International Studies (IPIS) of the Iranian Foreign Ministry Saeed Khatibzadeh told Trend.

According to him, a new level of relations between Iran and Azerbaijan has been initiated:

"We witnessed this during the visit of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Both countries support the opening of a new chapter in their relations," he explained.

Khatibzadeh said that Iran positively assesses the development of bilateral relations with Azerbaijan, which will contribute to the enhancement of these relations.

"Iran hopes that after the peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia, new perspectives will emerge in regional cooperation. Regional and international processes can provide an opportunity for the development of positive relations between the two countries," he noted.

Khatibzadeh pointed out that there are many common opportunities in various economic fields between Iran and Azerbaijan.

"In the region, there is significant potential in the field of energy, joint electricity production, and exchange, and activating these potentials could contribute to the development of economic ties between the two countries."

Iran and Azerbaijan are among the countries playing a key role in the North-South International Transport Corridor. At the regional level, this corridor is one of the main areas of focus in transit and freight transportation. This corridor will contribute to regional freight transport.

Additionally, through cooperation between the two countries, they can play an active role in cargo transport from the Persian Gulf to the Black Sea.

Moreover, it is possible to further develop relations in tourism, culture, and other areas of mutual interest. All of this naturally requires the existence of positive relations between the two countries," he concluded.
AARP has added Salt Lake County to its Network of Age-Friendly Communities. That opens the door to technical assistance, funding and other resources from the national organization as the county tackles policy, planning and building to meet the needs of a growing aging population.

Its the first community so designated in Utah, Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson said at a news conference Wednesday at the Millcreek Senior Center, which is co-located with a library and a recreation center.

Wilson hailed the countys efforts to help older adults in multiple ways, from the Meals on Wheels program to senior centers that integrate services with recreation programs in one location. When co-location was first considered, she said, there was robust discussion among the county council members, of which she was one at the time.

Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson, left, receives a certificate from Alan Ormsby, the state director of AARP Utah, right, during a press conference to announce Salt Lake Countys designation as an AARP Age-Friendly Community at the Millcreek Community Center in Millcreek on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News

The age-friendly puzzle

There are a lot of pieces to being age-friendly and a great deal of planning and projecting the future are involved, she and Alan Ormsby, state director of AARP, agreed  including focusing on important aspects like making neighborhoods walkable and ensuring there are affordable housing options, among others.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Anything that makes life better for older adults makes it better for anyone in a community, Ormsby said.

Ormsby added there have been efforts to get an age-friendly AARP designation in Utah for a long time, so the announcement is exciting. Besides helping to support local organizations that give time and energy to bolstering older adults, the national group can be tapped for expertise with forward-looking planning, he told Deseret News. AARP can provide guidance, support and monetary things to help Salt Lake Countys age-friendly efforts.

There are roughly 700 AARP-designated age-friendly states and communities in the United States.

Amy Oxman hits the ball while playing pickle ball at the Millcreek Community Center in Millcreek on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. Salt Lake County is the first community in Utah to be designated an AARP Age-Friendly Community. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News

Ryan Anderson, who is the program manager of Municipal Services and Regional Planning, actually oversaw the application. She said her program will work closely with Salt Lake County Aging and Adult Services over the next couple of years to do a needs assessment and create an action plan, which will be implemented in the following two years of a four-year effort. The work will include looking at whats working to allow people to age well while staying in their communities and what services, policies, features or other things need to change or be added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Salt Lake Countys Aging and Adult Services  its director, Paul Leggett, emceed the announcement  also has a contract with the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah to look at aging issues and services.

A community that is age-friendly has to consider how to build a community that provides access to services, meeting transportation needs and has affordable housing, among other factors, Anderson said.

The Wednesday morning fiber arts group works on their projects at the Millcreek Community Center in Millcreek on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. Salt Lake County is the first community in Utah to be designated an AARP Age-Friendly Community. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News

On its website, AARP says the network serves as a catalyst to educate local leaders (both elected officials and engaged residents) and encourage them to implement the types of changes that make communities more livable for people of all ages, especially older adults.

To get the designation, a communitys elected leaders have to commit to the goal of helping older adults flourish.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After earning a place in the network, AARP reports that age-friendly initiatives are catalyzing local policy change. And 73% of member communities achieved a change in public policy, most often by integrating an age-friendly lens into community planning.

Ann Mckane, left and Maureen Wilson, right, both work on knitting projects while working with the Wednesday morning fiber arts group at the Millcreek Community Center in Millcreek on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. Salt Lake County is the first community in Utah to be designated an AARP Age-Friendly Community. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News

The Millcreek center

The Millcreek senior center was a natural location for the announcement, given its design, which integrates people of all ages in various activities within the building.

Outside the room where the press conference was held, a group of older adult pals were chatting and laughing. Its a regular routine for them after their Monday-Wednesday-Friday enhanced fitness class, they told Deseret News. They all met in the class, but the friendships spill well beyond the senior center door.

They said they help each other out and sometimes get together outside of the center. One might drive another to a doctors appointment. Theyre an informal referral service, recommending good plumbers and doctors. And when one of them is downsizing, its the easiest thing in the world to bring a few items you dont want and see if anyone in the group wants them.

Seniors play pickleball at the Millcreek Community Center in Millcreek on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. Salt Lake County is the first community in Utah to be designated an AARP Age-Friendly Community. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News

You can come visit your tray, one of them jokes, while another adds that they celebrate each others birthdays and that there are some other groups that meet on different days for lunch. The center is a social hub for lots of older adults, who find it easy to make friends who share their interests, given the varied programming.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Theres easy banter among the women  and it isnt all just women most days  but they agree that a senior center is a great place for someone whos new to the area and older to make friends and stay connected. Plus they look out for each other, noticing when someone is missing from the class and checking up to see that all is well.

Sometimes the group has 16 members visiting after class and they come from all over the county, not just the Millcreek neighborhood.

Clearly visible above that group gathered in the Evergreen Cafe (the center is located on Evergreen Avenue), older adults could be seen on a walking track. The senior center side hosts activities that range from art classes to exercise classes, meals and a variety of other programs and events.

The center is age-friendly  and so is Salt Lake County.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  A Bakersfield police officer is facing charges related to exploiting a teenage girl online.

The Kern County Sheriffs Office arrested the Bakersfield police officer on Monday.

Marc Lugo, 35, was arrested on suspicion of having explicit communications online with a 15-year-old girl from South Carolina. The 13-year-old department veteran has been charged with contacting a minor with intent to commit a sexual offense, possessing obscene material depicting a minor and use or possession of obscene sexual material involving a minor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To have something like this occur, is absolutely shocking and disturbing to all of us, said Greg Terry, Chief of Police.

The Sheriffs Office Special Victims Unit and Homeland Security Investigators served a search warrant at Lugos home in northwest Bakersfield. KCSO say they got a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, identifying an Instagram linked to Lugo. That nonprofit investigates tips of child exploitation from the public and refers them to police departments. In 2024, they received more than 62 million tips.

Investigators say Instagram records revealed Lugo engaged in online communication encouraging the girl to send explicit material. As of newstime, records show Lugo is not in custody.

Bakersfield police officer arrested on suspicion of exploiting 15-year-old girl

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lugo is a detective and has been placed on administrative leave.

That creates time for us to do the investigation and takes that employee, theyre still an employee, theyre still being paid but they are not working in any capacity while the investigation is ongoing, said Terry.

Terry says while KCSO is conducting the criminal investigation, BPD is doing an administrative overlook.

The review that we will do is looking at the employee and looking at where they were, what their assignments were, how they did their work, is there any other indication that other policies and procedures were violated, said Terry.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lugo was involved in a shooting in southwest Bakersfield back in December of 2020. The suspect in that case  Jonathan Brown  died. That shooting was ruled justified.

17 News reached out to the sheriffs office with questions about Lugos arrest and they have declined to answer.

The proposed questions included:

How long were Lugo and the girl messaging online?

How was the tip investigated?

How did they meet?

Why isnt he in jail?

Was he bailed out?

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 KGET 17 News.
When Svetlana Dali snuck onto a Delta flight from New York to Paris in November it was not the first time she had successfully evaded airport security measures, federal prosecutors said Wednesday in a new court filing.

Two days before Dali, 57, allegedly went through security at JFK Airport and walked onto the Delta plane without a boarding pass she accessed a secure area of the departures terminal at Bradley International Airport in Connecticut, prosecutors said.

"The investigation uncovered that, just like at JFK, the defendant similarly tried twice to enter TSA security checkpoints at BDL without a boarding passthe first time unsuccessfully, and the second time successfullywearing what appeared to be the same boots and backpack that she was wearing at JFK," prosecutors said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There is no evidence Dali boarded a flight from Bradley but the filing said she "bypassed BDL security checkpoints in a manner that is strikingly similar to her conduct at JFK" where she was able to sneak past identification checks by comingling with other passengers.

Earlier in 2024, customs agents found Dali hiding in a bathroom in a secure area of the Miami International Airport, prosecutors said.

PHOTO: Booking photo for Svetlana Dali. (Niagara County Sheriff's Office)

In that instance, Dali claimed she had just arrived on an Air France flight and was waiting for her husband in the secure international arrivals zone. Prosecutors said there was no record of Dali on an Air France flight that day and no record she had left the United States in the prior five years. Ultimately, she was escorted from the airport.

Federal prosecutors in Brooklyn are seeking to introduce evidence of each episode when Dali stands trial later this month on stowaway charges from the incident on Nov. 26.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Once aboard Delta flight 264 to Paris, the filing said Dali hid in one of the plane's lavatories for several hours.

MORE: Svetlana Dali, the Delta Air Lines stowaway, arrested again trying to flee US

"When a flight attendant noticed her lengthy bathroom visit, the defendant manipulated her into believing she was sick by pretending she was vomiting to excuse her prolonged time in the bathroom," the filing said.

"Shortly before landing, the captain announced that the plane's descent would be turbulent and instructed everyone to take their seats, including the crew," the filing said. "As the flight crew rushed to secure the plane, the same flight attendant realized the defendant was still in the bathroom and instructed her to take her seat. The defendant continued to pretend to vomit, but the flight attendant insisted she sit down."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dali allegedly could not find a seat and the flight attendant asked for her name, identification and boarding pass. The defendant gave her two fake names and failed to produce any boarding pass or ID, prosecutors said.

"Alarmed, the flight attendant realized the defendant was not authorized to be on board and instructed the defendant to sit in a seat reserved for flight crew," the filing states. "Scared that the defendant might be dangerous, the flight attendant positioned herself between the defendant and other passengers for their safety. The flight crew notified French law enforcement, who arrested the defendant on the plane as soon as it landed in Paris."

Officials attempted to send Dali back to the United States on another flight shortly after, ABC News previously reported, but Dali was removed from the plane after insisting against her return.

She was eventually brought back to New York to face charges. After being released, Dali allegedly cut off her ankle monitor and traveled to Buffalo, where she planned to cross over the Peace Bridge into Canada but was apprehended.

Dali has pleaded not guilty to a federal stowaway charge.

Accused Delta stowaway had prior airport security breaches, feds say originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
An activist who featured in Louis Therouxs BBC documentary about the West Bank has allegedly had his home raided in revenge for his participation in the film.

Issa Amro was one of the Palestinians featured in Therouxs controversial documentary, The Settlers, which sought to shine a light on radical members of the Jewish settler community and violence perpetrated towards nearby Palestinians.

The film, which aired in late April, follows the scandal of another BBC documentary Gaza, How to Survive a Warzone, which was revealed to have used the son of a Hamas minister as a narrator.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mr Amro said that his home was raided by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) over the weekend and that his son had been harassed by members of the settler community.

He said that Israeli soldiers appeared at his Hebron home, in the southern West Bank, without a warrant and attacked him, a friend, and damaged his property.

A spokesman for the IDF said soldiers had acted to disperse a confrontation between Palestinian residents and Israeli civilians.

Oscar-winner arrested

Since the beginning of the war which followed the Oct 7 massacre in 2023, IDF personnel in the West Bank are more likely to come from settler communities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In March, Hamdan Ballal, who won the Oscar for Best Documentary for his portrayal of settler violence in the West Bank, was allegedly beaten by local settlers before being arrested and humiliated by the IDF  although the army said they had arrested local Palestinians for acts of violence.

He claimed he heard soldiers mention the Oscar during the alleged ordeal.

Mr Amro said: Its very dangerous to speak out about the things I talk about. My friends warn me all the time, Issa, youre going to get yourself killed.

But I am afraid about the future. Its getting more dangerous here. I felt it was really important to be a part of this.

Teenage son harassed

The new BBC film is a follow-up to Therouxs 2011 documentary The Ultra-Zionists.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In it, he interviewed Daniella Weiss, known as the godmother of the settler movement, which seeks to develop Jewish communities in areas outside the internationally recognised boundary of Israel.

Some in Israel and the international Jewish community have said it gives a one-sided impression of the settler movement and the violence in the West Bank.

Since the broadcast of the documentary, Mr Amro has reported experiencing harassment, which included being needlessly forced to go through police metal detectors multiple times at security checkpoints.

He also claimed that, last Friday, settlers approached his 13-year-old son near the family home and attempted to forcibly take him towards a settlement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Israeli Police said: In general, any incident brought to our attention is reviewed according to police procedures and the law.

The Israel Police remains committed to maintaining public order and ensuring the safety and rights of all individuals.

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.
Immigration activists representing several day laborers who were taken into custody during a federal raid in Pomona are speaking out, alleging the workers are being denied their due process.

Activists and community members held a press conference outside Pomona City Hall on Tuesday, demanding answers and transparency after a court hearing was held for three detained workers.

On April 22, at least 10 day laborers were taken into custody by U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents as they waited outside a Home Depot store, looking for work.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The raid sparked concern as immigrant rights advocates protested the targeting of those they described as innocent civilians.

Video of the raid showed Border Patrol vehicles surrounding the stores parking lot as the laborers were taken to an undisclosed location.

Activists said three of those undocumented workers were later transferred into the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and were being held at a detention facility in Calexico.

From left: Edwin Juarez, Johnny Garcia, and Jesus Domingo Ros are seen in photos provided by their families. Community activists, immigration rights advocates and community members held a rally and press conference outside Pomona City Hall on May 6, 2025, demanding that three undocumented day laborers who were detained in a federal raid be given a fair bond hearing and due process. (KTLA) Alexis Teodoro, a Worker Rights Director with the Pomona Economic Opportunity Center, spoke at a rally and press conference that was held outside Pomona City Hall on May 6, 2025. (KTLA) Community activists, immigration rights advocates and community members held a rally and press conference outside Pomona City Hall on May 6, 2025, demanding that three undocumented day laborers who were detained in a federal raid be given a fair bond hearing and due process. (KTLA) Home Depot store in Pomona, California. (KTLA) Community activists, immigration rights advocates and community members held a rally and press conference outside Pomona City Hall on May 6, 2025, demanding that three undocumented day laborers who were detained in a federal raid be given a fair bond hearing and due process. (KTLA)

A bond hearing for the three workers was scheduled on Tuesday morning for Jesus Domingo Ros, Edwin Juarez, and Johnny Garcia.

I will remind the public that an immigration judge only considers two factors to issue a bond hearing: Is this detainee a flight risk? Is this detainee a national security threat or public safety risk? said Alexis Teodoro, a Worker Rights Director with the Pomona Economic Opportunity Center.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But during Tuesdays hearing, Teodoro claimed ICE officials said the local immigration judge lacked jurisdiction because the men had been living in the U.S. for less than one year, making them ineligible for a bond hearing and instead, subject to expedited removal.

Teodoro said not only were those claims false, but that none of the men are threats to public safety and a bond hearing is within their basic rights.

All three men have been living in the United States for more than two years, Teodoro said. ICE is trying to push through expedited deportations by lying to the court and denying these men the most basic rights, like the right to be heard. Looking for work is not a crime. Waiting for a job opportunity outside a Home Depot isnt a threat to anyone.

Arturo Burga, an immigration attorney based in the Inland Empire, shed more light on the case.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you dont have any evidence that youve been in the country for more than two years, you could be at risk of expedited removal and thats very fast, Burga said.

If evidence to support that timeline isnt found, Burga said their due process is limited. However, if they have indeed been living in the U.S. for more than a year, theyll have more options.

Theyll get an opportunity to defend themselves from deportation with an immigration judge, but that process is not quick, Burga said.

In a previous statement on the Home Depot raid, CBP officials said, Agents conducted an operation in Pomona targeting an illegal alien with an active arrest warrant. During the operation, nine additional illegal aliens were encountered and taken into custody. Several of those apprehended had prior charges, including child abuse, assault with a deadly weapon, immigration violations, and DUI.

Immigrant rights advocates and community members held a demonstration outside a Home Depot store in Pomona on April 22, 2025, protesting a raid that involved the arrest of a group of day laborers at the location. (KTLA) Cell phone video from a witness showed several unmarked vehicles and vans reportedly belonging to U.S. Customs and Border Protection as agents surrounded a Home Depot store in Pomona and arrested a group of day laborers on April 22, 2025. Cell phone video from a witness showed several unmarked vehicles and vans reportedly belonging to U.S. Customs and Border Protection as agents surrounded a Home Depot store in Pomona and arrested a group of day laborers on April 22, 2025. Surveillance video showed Miguel Majins father being surrounded at gunpoint and taken into custody by immigration officials outside his barber shop in Pomona on April 22, 2025. (Miguel Majin) Surveillance video showed Miguel Majins father being surrounded at gunpoint and taken into custody by immigration officials outside his barber shop in Pomona on April 22, 2025. (Miguel Majin) Immigrant rights advocates and community members held a demonstration outside a Home Depot store in Pomona on April 22, 2025, protesting a raid that involved the arrest of a group of day laborers at the location. (KTLA) Immigrant rights advocates and community members held a demonstration outside a Home Depot store in Pomona on April 22, 2025, protesting a raid that involved the arrest of a group of day laborers at the location. (KTLA) Home Depot store in Pomona, California. (KTLA)

However, Teodoro claimed many of the detained laborers did not have criminal records. As for the three workers theyre representing, they intend to prove the men have been living and working in the U.S. for more than a year, that they should be released, and that they deserve a fair hearing before a judge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We demand that their due process rights are respected and that they are at least given the opportunity to post bond, Teodoro said.

A follow-up court hearing is scheduled for May 9.

KTLA has reached out to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for a statement and is awaiting a response.

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.
"Boardwalk Empire" actor Michael Pitt was arrested and indicted in Brooklyn on Friday on charges of sexual abuse, criminal sex act, assault and strangulation, according to court documents.

The actor pleaded not guilty and was released until his next court date in June.

Steve Buscemi on his role in the new satirical comedy 'The Death of Stalin'

The charges stem from alleged incidents that occurred in 2020 and 2021, according to the Brooklyn District Attorney's Office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The indictment alleges Pitt sexually abused an unnamed individual in April 2020 "by means of forcible compulsion."

PHOTO: Michael Pitt seen at 'Day Of The Fight' Special Screening at DGA Theater Complex on December 06, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Eric Charbonneau/KCFEOLA PR via Getty Images)

In August 2020, the indictment claims he allegedly forced oral sex on an individual.

The indictment claims Pitt allegedly injured an individual with "a four by four" that same month.

In June 2021, the indictment claims Pitt allegedly assaulted an individual with a cinderblock.

In August 2021, the indictment claims he allegedly tried to strangle someone.

Individual identities are redacted in the indictment, so it is unclear if one or more persons is making allegations against Pitt.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a statement to ABC News on Wednesday, Pitt's attorney James Goldman said, "Unfortunately, we live in a world where somebody like Mr. Pitt -- an accomplished professional who would never so much as contemplate these crimes -- can be arrested on the uncorroborated word of an unreliable individual. In reality, this baseless claim is suspiciously raised some four or five years after the alleged incident, from a time when the two parties were in a completely consensual relationship. We have already uncovered exonerating evidence and this case will be dismissed."

Pitt is best known for his role as Jimmy Darmody in the hit Atlantic City-based period crime drama "Boardwalk Empire."

Haley Joel Osment arrested at California ski resort for alleged public intoxication

In his role, Pitt starred opposite Steve Buscemi as an up-and-coming gangster in the underground crime world portrayed in the show.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pitt, who also appeared in "Dawson's Creek" earlier in his career, has taken on several television roles since the end of "Boardwalk Empire," appearing in several episodes the NBC show "Hannibal." He's also starred in film roles such "The Dreamers" and "Last Days."

Actor Michael Pitt arrested on sexual abuse charges originally appeared on goodmorningamerica.com
Actor Michael Pitt, known for his TV roles on Boardwalk Empire and Dawson's Creek, is accused of sexually assaulting his ex-girlfriend, choking her, and attacking her with a cinder block and a piece of lumber at his New York City home, according to a grand jury indictment.

Pitt, 44, whose lawyers denied the allegations, was arrested Friday on nine counts, including first-degree sexual abuse, criminal sexual acts, assault, attempted assault and strangulation. The indictment cites four incidents between April 2020 and August 2021 at Pitt's home in the Bushwick section of Brooklyn.

Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez's office declined to comment Wednesday beyond the allegations listed in the indictment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pitt's lawyer, Jason Goldman, said he already had exonerating evidence and expected the case to be dismissed.

Unfortunately, we live in a world where somebody like Mr. Pitt  an accomplished professional who would never so much as contemplate these crimes  can be arrested on the uncorroborated word of an unreliable individual, Goldman said in a text message to The Associated Press.

He added, In reality, this baseless claim is suspiciously raised some four or five years after the alleged incident, from a time when the two parties were in a completely consensual relationship.

Pitt pleaded not guilty to the charges on Friday and posted $100,000 bail, Goldman said. He is due back in court in Brooklyn on June 17.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Associated Press does not typically name people who say they have been sexually abused unless they come forward publicly, which the woman in Pitt's case has not done.

The indictment alleges Pitt forcibly touched his ex-girlfriend sexually in April 2020. In August 2020, the grand jury alleges Pitt forced oral sex on the woman and assaulted her with a 4-inch-by-4-inch (10-centimeter-by-10-centimeter) piece of lumber.

The indictment also says Pitt attacked her with a cinder block twice in June 2021 and choked her in August 2021.

TMZ reported in 2022 that Pitt was arrested in Brooklyn for allegedly punching a man after taking his phone and, two months later, was brought to a hospital under police escort after a public outburst in New York.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pitt, who grew up in West Orange, New Jersey, played the character Jimmy Darmody for two seasons on HBO's Boardwalk Empire, with the cast led by Steve Buscemi winning Screen Actors Guild Awards in 2011 and 2012 for outstanding performance by an ensemble in a drama series. The show also won a Golden Globe for best drama series in 2011.

His first major role came in the 2001 film Hedwig and the Angry Inch. In 2005, he starred in Last Days, director Gus Van Sant's film about a fictional rock star inspired by Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain. He also played Henry Parker in one season of The WB's Dawson's Creek in 1999-2000.
VIRGINIA BEACH  Police announced Wednesday three additional arrests to the slew of 53 made following College Beach Weekend. Two of the three men arrested were charged with use of a machine gun.

Authorities were notified of shots fired at the Oceanfront near the intersection of Atlantic Avenue and 23rd Street on April 27 from a Shotspotter alert and multiple calls to emergency services, police said.

Officers confirmed shots fired at the scene and reported no injuries, according to a Virginia Beach Police Department release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Following an investigation, police said, arrests were carried out for 23-year-old Nashun Simmons of Hampton, who was charged with multiple felonies including shooting in a public place, destruction of property, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a switch activator and using a machine gun; 22-year-old Jaynod Harvey of Newport News, who was charged with multiple felonies including wearing a mask in the commission of a felony, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a trigger activator; and 23-year-old Mark Aranjo of Hampton who was charged with possession of a switch activator and using of a machine gun.

Police seized three guns, one with a trigger switch and extend magazine. Switch activators and trigger switches are generally used to illegally convert a semi-automatic firearm into one thats fully-automatic.

These three arrests bring up the total number from College Beach Weekend up to 56 and the total number of guns confiscated up to at least 31.

College Beach Weekend is an annual informal tradition wherein college students, especially those from the regions Historically Black Universities, gather in crowds at the Oceanfront the last weekend of April. It has long been known to result in occasional violence and numerous arrests.

No additional details were immediately available.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  It used to be that heart patients could only get certain services here in Kern County.

More complex or advanced surgeries were often encouraged to travel elsewhere. That is not the case at least at Adventist Health Bakersfield anymore.

Credit the veteran heart surgeon who came on board in January 2023.

Dr. Robert Stewart believes in science  science fiction and science fact. Hes a Trekkie  not of the nerdy extreme  but a fan of the iconic television series ability to foretell aspects of our future. He is a champion of the healing power of our accumulated knowledge  knowledge that has brought new hope to his chosen field, cardiothoracic medicine. Heart surgery.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I believe in the whole principles of science, Stewart said during a 20-minute sit-down interview with KGET. I believe that you can have a theory, and I believe you can do the research to prove or disprove that theory and then I believe that if you are gonna bring things into our realm, I believe in the clinical trials that you gotta prove, I believe in everything about the science of, not only medicine, but the physical sciences.

Cardiac and thoracic surgeons specialize in treating diseases affecting the chest, lungs, esophagus and heart. Cardiac surgeons like Stewart treat heart problems, including heart disease, heart transplants and heart failure.

Robert Stewart, 76, graduated from Rush Medical School in Chicago, spent time in Michigan and eventually landed in Fresno.

Two years ago Stewart brought that knowledge from Fresno to Bakersfields Adventist Health Hospital, becoming the first, and certainly the most accomplished African American cardiothoracic surgeon in the area.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

(For) every cardiac surgery program in Fresno, including the congenital program, Ive been instrumental, he said. Ive worked at all of them. Actually built them all up. Started some of them. So we knew that, (for) what Bakersfield needed, that I was the best person in the group to come here. I found a community thats very receptive. I found an administration that was more than receptive.

Since his arrival Adventists heart unit has increased the number of life saving heart surgeries from 30 in the year prior to his arrival to 130  a four fold increase.

(We) started doing more complex cases here than they were doing (in Bakersfield previously) because some of those cases, a lot of those cases, were being referred out (to hospitals in other cities), Stewart said. Thats why the volume was so low. So were doing more complex cases here. We have plans to have the volume for the next couple years, the volume should grow at least 20 to 25 percent per year.

He has also helped introduce newer techniques and procedures that have cut recovery time for heart surgeries from three to six months to three to six weeks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The direct descendant of slaves  and a slave master  Stewart was born in Central Mississippi. For most of his childhood he was too young to know he was poor. His family moved to Chicago during one of the nations great post-war migrations.

(The issues were) racism and poverty and lack of employment in Mississippi, he said, and there were better opportunities to get on that Illinois Central Railroad and go north.

He comes from an accomplished family. In 1964, his uncle Robert G. Clark Jr. ran for the Mississippi legislature and defeated the white incumbent to become that states first Black representative since Reconstruction. He endured insults and ostracism before becoming a force in state politics, and he held the seat for 36 years. Clarks son Bryant W. Clark  Robert Stewarts cousin  succeeded his father.

Now, in this century, Stewart is the accomplished one, and the Central Valley of California is the beneficiary.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 KGET 17 News.
A federal judge in Rhode Island issued a preliminary injunction May 6 in a lawsuit filed by 21 states, including Michigan, challenging federal cuts to agencies that provide support to public libraries and museums, minority-owned businesses and workers across the country.

Attorneys general, including Michigan's AG Dana Nessel, sued the Trump administration in April, saying the cuts would dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS); the Minority Business Development Agency, and the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service.

They said the cuts are illegal, arguing that the agencies are created and funded by Congress. The cuts to the three agencies and four others were in a March 14 executive order by President Donald Trump.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

U.S. District Chief Judge John McConnell Jr. agreed with the states.

"This Executive Order violates the Administrative Procedures Act ('APA') in the arbitrary and capricious way it was carried out. It also disregards the fundamental constitutional role of each of the branches of our federal government; specifically, it ignores the unshakable principles that Congress makes the law and appropriates funds, and the Executive implements the law Congress enacted and spends the funds Congress appropriated," he wrote in granting the states' motion.

The ruling came days after a federal court in Washington, D.C., granted a temporary restraining order to block the administration from further dismantling the IMLS, according to the American Library Association, which filed a lawsuit with others. IMLS had a staff of 77, now it has 12, according to the recent preliminary injunction, and more than 1,000 grants were terminated.

Steven Bowers, executive director of The Library Network and president of the Library Cooperatives of Michigan, indicated in a statement May 7 that library advocates are encouraged by the preliminary injunction.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The Institute provides important grants to libraries and museums serving the public. To label the work of IMLS as fraudulent or wasteful is disingenuous. The programs resulting from IMLS grants are audited and reported on annually," he said.

Bowers indicated the state grants program from IMLS equates to about 75 cents per person and is only .003% of the federal budget, as approved and appropriated by Congress.

"For this small amount of financial investment, libraries are able to provide essential services to the communities that they serve. In Michigan we are able to provide the 24/7 access Michigan eLibrary (Mel.org) to all residents, in part due to IMLS funding. MeL and MeLCat provide residents, schools, higher education, public libraries, and businesses library services and resources statewide."

Debbie Mikula, executive director of the Michigan Library Association, said the recent judicial decisions are "good news," but the "bad news" is Trump "zeroed-out the budget for fiscal year 2026" for IMLS.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We're in a little bit of a quandary with things coming at us so fast," she said.

Mikula said federal dollars support the state's electronic library and interlibrary loan program, which allows people to get materials from a library in another county in another part of the state delivered to their local library for free.

She said advocates are working hard at the state level to try to prevent the programs from going away. At the same time, they're unsure whether Congress is going to put money back into the budget for IMLS, which funds the programs.

The federal funds are small, Mikula said, but "that little money is critical" to the programs' success and it allows every citizen in the state to have access to information. She said a Livonia woman who was an online graduate student saved $600 in one semester by accessing materials she needed through the electronic library database.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Nessel, in a news release May 6, said: "Stripping federal funding and dismantling congressionally funded agencies has become a troubling and unlawful pattern within the Trump White House. Eliminating agencies that support local public and school libraries and halting projects that keep classrooms warm, ventilated, and safe is not just harmful to our communities and students  it's illegal. I'm grateful two separate Courts agreed, and we secured relief to protect students, libraries, and other vital programming across our state."

In the education-related case, Nessel indicated a federal court in New York granted a preliminary injunction in a lawsuit challenging the Department of Education's decision March 28 to abruptly end the period of time for education agencies to use congressionally-appropriated funding to mitigate the immediate and long-term impacts of the pandemic on K-12 students.

More: Will Trump uphold the law of the land? What to know about US Constitution

She indicated the department tried to prohibit the use of funds despite ongoing construction and mitigation efforts that were set to continue through March 2026, the previously approved deadline. The order prevents the department from enforcing its decision to rescind the ability for school districts to use the funding, according to Nessel's release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In regard to federal funding for museums and libraries, more than $8 million in federal dollars came to Michigan in fiscal year 2024 from IMLS, according to its website. Nearly $4.8 million went to the Library of Michigan; $1.6 million to individual libraries, and $1.77 million to museums, which advocates said help museums across Michigan (of which there are about 650) stretch projects or things they can't fund within normal operations.

The state was anticipated to receive about $4.7 million under the IMLS program this fiscal year, according to an April 4 release from Nessel's office announcing the lawsuit. It stated the 2024 funding accounted for 75% of all funding to support statewide library services and resources and their users.

In the April release, Nessel said the Library of Michigan was forced to cancel a summer grant program to support small and rural libraries, a program that typically provided 130-150 grants each year, as a result of Trump's executive order.

Michigan has just shy of 400 public libraries, 87 academic libraries, nearly 3,000 school libraries, 650 museums and hundreds of historical organizations that use the resources funded with federal dollars, according to a prior joint statement from seven associations and groups representing libraries and museums.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One of the biggest impacts of cuts would be to the Michigan Electronic Library, which is funded by IMLS grant money and would be in jeopardy unless replacement funds are found if federal funds dry up. That is the centralized catalog and service created to share materials among all types of libraries in the state. The databases are used extensively by school and academic libraries, advocates said.

In Michigan, 368 out of 397 public libraries, and 52 out of 79 academic libraries, use MeLCat as an integral part of their daily circulation of library materials, according to Nessel's release in April.

The Michigan eLibrary eContent includes statewide access to subscription magazines, newspapers, reference books, eBooks and more. Last year, Michigan residents accessed 19.2 million trusted articles and journals through this service. The MeLCat Catalog offers statewide access to physical books and other items. One million items were loaned throughout Michigan through this service in 2024.

Advocates said students use the services daily for tools for early literacy, research databases and test prep.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Federal funds also have provided training for librarians; tech support; summer reading materials and help for libraries, museums and historical societies to preserve their local community history. Tribal libraries in Michigan received more than $500,000 in federal funds through the IMLS grants.

More: DIA to take its final, viral '7 Mile + Livernois' dance party outside this weekend

Bowers previously told the Free Press that funding was in place through September, but come Oct. 1, it was an unknown. And the timing couldn't be worse  right after schools start up again for the new school year.

Contact Christina Hall: chall@freepress.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @challreporter.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Support local journalism. Subscribe to the Free Press.

Submit a letter to the editor at freep.com/letters.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Advocates 'encouraged' by ruling to stop federal cuts to libraries
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. Despite being geographically distant, Azerbaijan and Vietnam are building a resilient and mutually beneficial partnership, guided by pragmatism and shared interests in key sectors.

Today, Azerbaijan will welcome a high-ranking guest - To Lam, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam - on a state visit. This will be the first visit at such a senior level in recent years and marks a significant step toward strengthening bilateral cooperation between Baku and Hanoi. It is expected to serve not only as a symbol of political dialogue but also as a concrete move toward expanding their strategic partnership.

In recent years, ties between the two countries have notably intensified. Trade volumes are rising, collaboration in the oil and gas sector is expanding, and new platforms are emerging to support cooperation between small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). At the same time, cultural exchanges are growing, and new opportunities are opening up in transport and logistics, particularly as Azerbaijans role as a transit hub gains prominence.

Amid shifts in the global economic landscape and the push by many countries to diversify their external partnerships, Vietnams interest in deeper engagement with Azerbaijan is both timely and logical. The upcoming talks in Baku could mark the beginning of a new phase in bilateral relationsmore structured, strategic, and oriented toward long-term outcomes.

The economic relationship between Azerbaijan and Vietnam continues to show steady growth. In the first quarter of 2025, bilateral trade totaled $127.2 million, with Azerbaijans exportsmainly crude oilreaching $91.8 million. Imports from Vietnam amounted to $35.4 million. For comparison, the total trade volume for all of 2024 stood at $223.9 million, reflecting a positive trajectory in economic ties.

A significant milestone came in 2024 with the signing of cooperation agreements between Azerbaijans Small and Medium Business Development Agency (KOBIA) and the Vietnam International Business Relations Club. The initiative aims to strengthen direct links between entrepreneurs in both countries and lay the groundwork for joint ventures.

Energy remains a cornerstone of Azerbaijani-Vietnamese cooperation. Vietnam has long been a stable buyer of Azerbaijani crude. In 2024 alone, Azerbaijan exported 138,500 tons of crude oil and petroleum products to Vietnam, valued at $77.9 million, placing Vietnam 21st among Azerbaijans oil buyers by volume.

For more than a decade, the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) has worked with major Vietnamese energy firms - PetroVietnam and Vietsovpetro - on upstream development, oil supply, and refining. Key milestones include the 2015 strategic partnership agreement and the 2018 decision to create joint ventures.

SOCAR Trading has played an especially important role. In 2020, it signed contracts with Binh Son Refining (BSR) for the delivery of five million barrels of Azeri Light crude to the Dung Quat refinery. This became possible after Vietnam eliminated import duties on crude oil, opening new export channels for Azerbaijani producers.

Vietnam is also showing growing interest in Azerbaijans transit potential - particularly in the context of the Middle Corridor, also known as the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route. Azerbaijan has made major investments in multimodal infrastructure, including upgrades to sea ports, rail lines, and logistics hubs. With its modern Baku International Sea Trade Port and a robust rail network, the country has become a key logistics gateway across Eurasia.

For Vietnamese exporters, this opens new overland routes to Europe, bypassing longer traditional shipping lanes through the South China Sea and the Suez Canal.

Beyond economics and energy, humanitarian and cultural ties are also expanding. Vietnam hosts a Center for Azerbaijani History and Culture and a Vietnam-Azerbaijan Friendship Society, both of which foster greater people-to-people connections.

Since 2018, Azerbaijani citizens have been eligible for 30-day e-visas to Vietnam. In 2019, the Azerbaijan Tourism Agencies Association signed a memorandum of understanding with authorities in Quang Nam Province to boost tourism exchanges and promote joint projects in hospitality. Both countries are also exploring greater collaboration in education, with initiatives to encourage student and academic exchanges.

Relations between Azerbaijan and Vietnam are steadily evolving across multiple domains - from energy and trade to transportation and culture. To Lams upcoming visit to Baku is set to become a defining moment in this bilateral dialogue, underscoring the mutual interest in deepening cooperation.

On one side is Vietnam, with its fast-growing industrial base; on the other, Azerbaijan, with its strategic location and strong logistics and energy infrastructure. These complementary strengths provide a solid foundation for a new stage in their partnership - one that reflects the long-term interests of both nations.
The News

Several African countries are considering proposals from the Trump administration to accept deported migrants from the US, according to multiple reports.

The plans would see these nations receive citizens of other countries.

Rwanda is the only country that has publicly acknowledged it is in discussions with the White House to consider this plan: Kigali had previously agreed a similar arrangement with the UK in 2022, but that plan fell through after a change of government in London last year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Other African countries  including Angola, Benin, and Equatorial Guinea  have held talks with Washington, according to a report by CBS News, which cited internal government documents.

Benins foreign minister also met with State Department officials this week, but details of the discussions were said to concern trade and regional security.

Trump has been pushing to expel millions of what he called illegal migrants to fulfill a campaign promise made last year.

African countries including Chad, Congo Brazzaville, and Eritrea were among those whose migrants had some of the highest visa overstay rates last year, according to the US Department of Homeland Security.
NEW YORK (AP)  At age 87, Kenyan author Ngugi wa Thiong'o hopes he can summon the strength for at least one more book.

He would call it Normalized Abnormality, about the lasting scars of colonialism, whether in Africa, Europe or North America, that are widely accepted today.

I will write it if I have the energy, Ngugi, who has struggled with kidney problems in recent years, said during a telephone interview.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One of the world's most revered writers and a perennial candidate for the Nobel Prize, Ngugi remains an energetic speaker with opinions no less forceful than they have been for the past 60 years. Since emerging as a leading voice of post-colonial Africa, he has been calling for Africans to reclaim their language and culture and denouncing the tyranny of Kenya's leaders. His best known books include the nonfiction Decolonizing the Mind and the novel Devil on the Cross, one of many books that he wrote in his native Gikuyu.

Ngugi has been praised by critics and writers worldwide, and imprisoned, beaten, banned and otherwise threatened in his native country. Since the 1970s, he has mostly lived overseas, emigrating to England and eventually settling in California, where he is a Distinguished Professor of English and Comparative Literature at the University of California, Irvine.

I miss Kenya, because they gave me everything, he says. All of my writings are based in Kenya. ... I owe my writing to Kenya. It's very hard for me not to be able to return to my homeland.

Ngugi has published a handful of books over the past decade, including the novel The Perfect Nine and the prison memoir Wrestling with the Devil, and was otherwise in the news in 2022 when his son, Mukoma wa Ngugi, alleged that he had physically abused his first wife, Nyambura, who died in 1996 (I can say categorically its not true, Ngugi wa Thiong'o responds).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

His U.S. publisher, The New Press, has just released Decolonizing Language, which the author praises as a beautiful title. Decolonizing Language includes essays and poems written between 2000 and 2019, with subjects ranging from language and education to such friends and heroes as Nelson Mandela, Nadine Gordimer and Chinua Achebe, the Nigerian author whose 1958 novel, Things Fall Apart, is considered by many the starting point for modern African literature. Achebe also helped launch Ngugi's career by showing a manuscript of an early novel, Weep Not, Child, to publisher William Heinemann, who featured it in the landmark African Writers series.

In one essay from Decolonizing Language, Ngugi declares that writers must be the voice of the voiceless. They have to give voice to silence, especially the silence imposed on a people by an oppressive state. During his AP interview, Ngugi discussed his concerns about Kenya, the empowerment of knowing your native language, his literary influences and his mixed feelings about the United States. Ngugi's comments on subjects have been condensed for clarity and brevity.

On language in Kenya

In Kenya, even today, we have children and their parents who cannot speak their mother tongues, or the parents know their mother tongues and don't want their children to know their mother tongue. They are very happy when they speak English and even happier when their children don't know their mother tongue. That's why I call it mental colonization.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On speaking English

I am fine (with speaking English). After all, I am a distinguished professor of English and comparative literature at the University of California, in Irvine. So it's not that I mind English, but I don't want it to be my primary language, OK? This is how I put it: For me, and for everybody, if you know all the languages of the world, and you don't know your mother tongue, that's enslavement, mental enslavement. But if you know your mother tongue, and add other languages, that is empowerment.

His personal favorites

I very much like the African American writers. I discovered them at Makerere University (in Uganda), and Caribbean writers like George Lamming were very important to me. The writers of the Harlem Renaissance fired my imagination and made me feel I could be a writer, too. ... At the Makerere conference (the African Writers Conference, in 1962), I met with Langston Hughes, and oh my God it was so great!. Langston Hughes of the Harlem Renaissance! To shake hands with a world famous writer was very very important to me.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mixed feelings about the United States

On the one hand, I am grateful to be here and to have a job at a California university, as a distinguished professor. I appreciate that. But I was coming from a country which was a white seller colony, and I can't forget that when I'm here. People don't even talk about it here. They talk about it as if it were normal. So we talk about the American Revolution. But is it not Native Americans who were colonized? So I am very fascinated by this normalized abnormality.
The family of Christopher Pelkey, a 2021 road rage victim, used artificial intelligence to recreate his image and voice for a victim impact statement during the sentencing of his killer

The AI-generated video featured Pelkey saying he forgave the man who shot him

Pelkeys family described the experience as healing, saying the AI representation captured his true spirit and provided them with emotional closure by allowing them to see him one last time

Christopher Pelkey was shot and killed in a road rage incident in Arizona in 2021  but last month, his family members saw him again thanks to artificial intelligence.

This was the first time in Arizona judicial history that AI has been used to create a victim impact statement for someone who has already died, the Guardian and ABC15 reported.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pelkeys sister, Stacey Wales, and his brother-in-law, used AI technology to recreate his image and voice to talk about his life and the day he met the man who shot and killed him during a confrontation in Chandler.

To Gabriel Horcasitas, the man who shot me, it is a shame we encountered each other that day in those circumstances, the AI video recording of Pelkey said. In another life, we probably could have been friends.

I believe in forgiveness, and a God who forgives. I always have, and I still do, Pelkeys AI recording added.

The AI video included real video clips of Pelkey, showcasing his personality and humor. It showed a real photo he once took with an old age filter. "Remember, getting old is a gift that not everybody has, so embrace it and stop worrying about those wrinkles, the AI version of Pelkey said.

Authorities say that Pelkey was 37 years old when he was killed in November of 2021 while stopped at a red light, along with Horcasitas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When both vehicles were stopped at a red light, Horcasitas repeatedly honked at Pelkey, who got out of his truck, waved his arms and approached Horcasitas car, according to an Arizona court memorandum.

Horcasitas shot twice, killing Pelkey with one bullet  leading the state to hit Horcasitas with murder charges, the court memorandum said. Ultimately, Horcasitas was sentenced to 10-and-a-half years for manslaughter.

The judge overseeing the case, Todd Lang, appeared to become emotional after the AI presentation.

"As justifiably angry as the family is, I heard the forgiveness, and I know Mr. Horcasitas appreciated it, but so did I," Lang said. "I feel that that was genuine, that his obvious forgiveness of Mr. Horcasitas reflects the character I heard about today."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pelkey was a veteran of the United States Army and devoutly religious, according to his obituary. He was involved in many church missions across the world.

He was survived by various family members and friends and his beloved cat Sausage. The list of names of people that were affected by his life will never fully be known on this side of heaven, his obituary read.

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.

Wales, Pelkeys sister, said everyone who knew him agreed that the AI video was a true representation of the spirit and soul of how Chris would have thought about his own sentencing as a murder victim, Wales said to ABC 15.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pelkeys family told the outlet that they found peace in the process because they got to see him one last time. Pelkeys brother, John, said he felt waves of healing from seeing his brothers face and believes Pelkey would have forgiven his killer.

That was the man I knew, John said.



Read the original article on People
KINGSPORT, Tenn. (WJHL)  The American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) East Tennessee Local Section (ETLS) hosted its 4th annual STEM Field Day at Bays Mountain Recreation Center on Tuesday.

Around 500 local 7th-graders participated in the event, which consisted of interactive demonstrations and various science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) activities. The two-day event took place on Monday and Tuesday.

Robinson Middle School 7th Grade Science teacher Jessica Chase said the event aims to introduce students to STEM fields and areas of focus, including chemistry, forensics, meteorology and more.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Today is a really great opportunity for kids to see different career paths, different fields of science that they wouldnt automatically assume go with science, because theres a whole engineering, technology, mathematics component in STEM that relates to science, she said. And so today kids get to see that opportunity, like welding and forensics and things they dont normally think of when they are thinking of science class.

Chase said that making learning a hands-on experience helps keep kids attention and helps them see the material in a relatable, casual environment.

Anytime we can make it hands-on, it just makes that learning potential so much, much more. In class, our labs and things, they just really help our kids grasp ahold of those concepts. And so they just did welding over there, and the kids had no idea really. You can tell them what welding is, but when you actually get over there and get to try to do it, it just makes it so much more meaningful.

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.
Heather Burgess said her 11-year old son who has autism and does not speak came home from school Friday with bruises on his chest and arm.

The Floyd County mother called his teacher at Betsy Lane Elementary, who said school officials would investigate, Burgess told the Herald-Leader Tuesday night.

By Monday afternoon, Burgess said, school staff told her video from school cameras showed that a classroom aide was being very aggressive with my child and another child and cussed my child as she shoved him down onto the bench.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Burgess posted a photo on Facebook that she said was her son with bruises on his chest.

Jill Hamilton said in a Facebook post that her non-verbal seven-year-old son was the other child in the class who the aide handled aggressively.

We watched the video of the incident yesterday, Hamilton told the Herald-Leader. An aide at the school walked my son back by his arms and flung him down on the bench then slung his arm down as hard as she could that she was holding him by.

Late Tuesday afternoon, Floyd County Superintendent Tonya Horne Williams posted a news release on Facebook, saying an investigation has been launched by police.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The administration at Betsy Layne Elementary has been made aware of an alleged incident involving a staff member. In response, the school district is working in full cooperation with the Kentucky State Police and the Department for Community Based Services (Protection and Permanency) to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation, Williams said.

Floyd County Schools remains firmly committed to addressing this matter with the utmost diligence and transparency.

Williams said the district has zero tolerance for any actions that compromise the safety, dignity or well-being of students and staff.

I hate that he went through what he did, Burgess said of her son. And I hate to imagine what else goes on behind close doors.
(NewsNation)  Republican Colorado Rep. Lauren Boebert says President Donald Trump has been having to fix messes created under his predecessor on air traffic control safety.

What we just went through for four years was really a lot of neglect, and Joe Biden was not as present as we see President Trump, Boebert told NewsNation Leland Vittert on Tuesday.

Boeberts comments come amid a string of aviation incidents in recent weeks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Newark Liberty International Airport had a 90-second air traffic control blackout at last week. The incident sparked massive panic among workers.

Controllers at a Philadelphia control center, who were responsible for monitoring air traffic in and out of the airport, lost radar and communications with the flights. They were unable to see, hear, or talk to them, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association said, according to The New York Times.

The blackout and communication breakdown led to hundreds of flights being delayed or canceled. Three dozen flights were also diverted that day.

Aviation experts say air safety issues are years in the making

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a statement Monday, the Federal Aviation Administration said it was working to make sure current telecommunications equipment is more reliable in the New York area.

There have also been staffing issues with air traffic controllers.

This is not a Trump administration problem overall. President Trump has been in office about 15 weeks, Boebert said, adding that the issues stem from DEI hires under Biden.

Joe Biden created this massive message. President Trump has to go into every single agency, every single program, and fix the messes that were created, she said.

Boebert also defended Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, saying he has hit the ground running to help turn things around.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Escalating tensions between India and Pakistan have sparked mass flight reroutes across Asia.

Flightradar24 data shows nearly empty skies over Pakistan amid the cross-border conflict.

Airlines including Korean Air, EVA Air, and Thai Airways have rerouted flights to avoid the airspace.

Air travel across South and Central Asia has been thrown into disarray as tensions between India and Pakistan escalated into open conflict, prompting major airlines to reroute or cancel flights that typically go through Pakistan's airspace.

Indian carriers, including Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, had already been barred from flying over Pakistan, leading to major detours and European refueling stops on long-haul flights.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After India launched missile strikes on Wednesday, airlines have increasingly either canceled flights or adjusted international routes to bypass Pakistani airspace.

Several Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern carriers have issued advisories, with reroutes affecting travel between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Malaysia Airlines and Batik Air announced suspensions of routes involving Pakistani airports, citing operational and security concerns.

Korean Air, EVA Air, and Thai Airways have altered their flight paths to avoid the region.

Despite the near-complete shutdown, flight tracking data from Flightradar24 shows one Ethiopian Airlines flight traveling through Pakistani airspace early Wednesday, en route from Addis Ababa to Seoul, South Korea.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At 1:50 p.m. local time, only four aircraft operated by Pakistani carriers were visible over the country.

Only four aircraft operated by Pakistani carriers were visible over Pakistan's airspace Wednesday as of 1:50 p.m. local time. Flightradar24

Escalating tensions

Tensions between India and Pakistan have soared since an attack against tourists last month in Indian-administered Kashmir left 26 people dead.

India has blamed Pakistan for the incident, calling it an act of terrorism sponsored by Islamabad. Pakistan has denied any involvement.

In response, India launched a series of airstrikes early Wednesday, saying it had hit nine nonmilitary targets across Pakistan and the disputed Jammu and Kashmir region.

India's Ministry of Defense described the attacks as "precision strikes" in retaliation for the Kashmir massacre, which it said left 25 Indian nationals dead. The 26th person killed in the attack was from Nepal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistan swiftly condemned the strikes as an "act of war." Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif vowed a "forceful response," while Information Minister Attaullah Tarar told state television that his country had shot down five Indian fighter jets and a drone and destroyed several Indian checkpoints. India has not responded to Pakistan's claims.

At a press conference later that night, a spokesperson for Pakistan's armed forces said eight Pakistanis had been killed and 33 injured in India's attack.

"India has no evidence whatsoever to link Pakistan to this incident," Tarar told Sky News of the Kashmir attack in April.

Read the original article on Business Insider
MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG)  Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey signed a bill Monday aimed at deterring gun violence into law.

Thomasville crash kills 2, injures 4, police chief says

SB 119 brings harsher penalties for people who shoot into cars and buildings, convicts who have guns, and Aniahs Law now applies to more violent offenses.

Mobile District Attorney Keith Blackwood told News 5 that the bill provides more opportunities to combat gun violence and violent offenders throughout Mobile.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It will allow us to expand the class of people that are prohibited from owning firearms, Blackwood said.

And were talking about convicted felons, he said. Were talking about, you know, people with certain drug offenses, people with prior violent offenses.

Most importantly, Blackwood said, there are new provisions for Aniahs Law offenses.

That one really allows us to more immediately respond to public safety issues and make sure that were able to keep people that commit violent offenses in jail where they belong, to keep our community safe, Blackwood said.

Mobile County Sheriff Paul Burch is also a big supporter of the gun violence prevention bill.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I think they did a really great job of considering a lot of different situations and scenarios, Burch said. And keeping, even though theyre criminals, keeping their civil rights in mind.

Burch said even though this bill is a start, he hopes to see harsher penalties for other gun crimes in the future.

Someone who will shoot recklessly into a crowd, that to me is just as bad as shooting into a house because, you know, youve got a number of people in there, Burch said.

But I think that would be something that needs to be included in that going forward next year, he said. But again, it was a great bill that was passed and will certainly go a long way.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

SB 119 goes into effect Oct. 1 except for the Aniahs Law expansion.

Prichard shooting under investigation

The expansion requires a change to the constitutional amendment that was passed in 2022.

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 WKRG News 5.
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP)  The city of Birmingham is one step closer to losing control over Alabama's largest water utility after the governor signed a bill on Wednesday that would give more power to neighboring suburbs, despite a pending federal lawsuit alleging the move would constitute racial discrimination.

The bill redistributes power from Birmingham city officials  who currently appoint a majority of the nine-person board  to the governor, the lieutenant governor and the surrounding four counties that are also in the boards jurisdiction. It also reduces the number of board members to seven. Board members approve rate hikes and manage infrastructure projects for the utilitys 770,000 customers.

The state Senate voted unanimously to pass the bill, and the House of Representatives approved it along party lines.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No doubt, this is an important issue to all those residents served by this utility board. The Alabama Legislature overwhelmingly passed SB330, and I was pleased to sign it into law, Republican Gov. Kay Ivey said in a written statement.

Proponents of the bill point to frequent rate hikes, old infrastructure and recent scandals. The legislation said that the power transfer will prevent catastrophic events that have happened in cities like Jackson, Mississippi, or Detroit, Michigan.

Opponents say that the restructured board wouldn't solve the utility's problems.

This is a taking of power from the local rate payer by Republican politicians in Montgomery, Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin said in a statement on Wednesday. We have seen this same thing happen in other cities throughout the southeast. Your water and sewer bill will keep going up.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Five counties rely on the Birmingham Water Works Board. Over 40% of customers are concentrated in the city of Birmingham, and 91% are in Jefferson County. The new system would give more weight to Jefferson Countys neighboring areas that have only a fraction of the customers, but which house some of the reservoirs that supply the system.

Woodfin and city council members filed a federal lawsuit against Ivey on Tuesday, alleging that the legislation constitutes blatant racial discrimination because it gives the majority-white suburbs disproportionate influence and takes power away from Birmingham, a majority-Black city where close to half of the utility's customers live.

Birmingham City Council President Darrell OQuinn said that the decision exacerbates long-standing tensions in the region.

Regardless of whether our efforts prevail, the worst, deep-seated fears of the citizens of the City of Birmingham about their suburban neighbors have been confirmed. Old wounds have been reopened. Years of progress have been destroyed, O'Quinn said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

U.S. Chief District Judge Emily C. Marks declined to temporarily block the bill from going into effect on Tuesday evening without first hearing oral arguments from either side. She set a hearing for May 15.

____

Riddle is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
Protesters march during a nonviolent protest in Birmingham, Alabama, in protest of bills targeting immigrants on Saturday February 22, 2025. The Alabama House of Representatives Tuesday passed two bills targeting immigrants without legal status. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)

The Alabama House of Representatives passed two bills on Tuesday that target immigrants without legal status in the state.

SB 53, sponsored by Sen. Wes Kitchens, R-Arab, would require law enforcement to determine the legal status of those they have a reasonable suspicion of being in the country without status during stops. The bill also makes it a Class C felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison, for a person to knowingly transport into this state another individual if he or she knows is an illegal alien, which the bill defines as human smuggling.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It codifies the practice that jail administrators are already doing now in terms of reporting illegal immigrant detainees and verifying their immigration status, said Rep. Ben Robbins, R-Sylacauga, who carried the bill in the House.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

Rep. Thomas Jackson, D-Thomasville, questioned what reasonable suspicion is.

If youre not profiling, what is your reasonable suspicion that theyre unlawful? Jackson said. Being Hispanic is not a crime. Being Spanish is not a crime.

The language is similar to language in HB 56, the 2011 state law that attempted to criminalize the lives of immigrants without legal status. Federal courts gutted much of the law.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The House adopted a Judiciary Committee substitute 92-0 that provided exceptions for people to transport people without legal status. One is for health care providers transporting patients, if people are transporting people for religious or charitable reasons, or people that an attorney who represents an individual authorizes.

The Senate approved the legislation in February, after the body removed language in the original bill that echoed language in the 1850 Fugitive Slave Act that threatened those who helped enslaved people escape with fines and imprisonment.

The bill offers several exceptions for people who are transporting people who are not legally authorized to live in the U.S. into Alabama, such as attorneys transporting clients to different immigration facilities or educators escorting their students for a school related activity.

The legislation was criticized by the Alabama Coalition for Immigrant Justice at a public hearing and in a statement Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

SB 53 puts U.S. citizen family and friends at risk of felony charges for simply driving their loved ones. It was unconstitutional when the Alabama Legislature did it in 2011, and it is unconstitutional now, Executive Director Allison Hamilton wrote in the statement.

Rep. Phillip Ensler, D-Montgomery, said he is concerned about the situations that are not listed as an exception in the legislation, like going to a wedding across state lines and one person in the car is undocumented but is married to a U.S. citizen.

Does that not concern you that people just doing innocent things, visiting family, doing joyous occasions like a wedding that they can be charged with a felony for smuggling? Ensler asked Robbins.

The Coalition had similar concerns.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I live really close to the Georgia border and not everyone in my family is documented. I cant believe it would be illegal for me to drive my in-laws to the nearest hospital since it crosses the state line, Jordan Stallworth, civic engagement coordinator at the Coalition, wrote in the statement. This type of targeting is dehumanizing and demoralizing. My family deserves better. All our families deserve better.

Robbins said there is a serious problem in the state and the country with bad actors.

I think that weve got a serious problem in the state and the country of people transporting individuals for commercial reasons and exploiting them for cheap labor, Robbins said. I think we have to do something to try to address that problem. I am more focussed on addressing those bad actors.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 4% of Alabamas population is foreign-born. The national average is 14.3%.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bill passed 80-18. It goes to the Senate for concurrence or conference committee. There are two days left of legislative session.

The House also passed SB 63, sponsored by Sen. Lance Bell, R-Riverside, which requires fingerprinting and DNA collection from non-citizens in custody, adding them to a states forensic database. Rep. Mark Shirey, R-Mobile, carried the legislation in the House. He said the bill will expedite the process for DNA results.

Right now when they detain an illegal immigrant for the feds, they wait for the feds. The feds come to get them and they do the DNA and fingerprints and send it to the national lab, Shirey said. Theyre backup is two and a half years and the backup in the state is two and a half hours.

The bill passed 76-7 with no discussion. It goes to Gov. Kay Ivey.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. On May 7, 2025, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov left for an official visit to the Republic of Iraq, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry said, Trend reports.

Within the framework of the visit, a meeting of Minister Jeyhun Bayramov with Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Iraq Fuad Hussein, as well as other high-level bilateral meetings are planned.
A sculpture of enslaved men, women and children seen in Alabama Bicentennial Park in Montgomery, Alabama on January 24, 2023. Alabama was a slave state from 1819 to 1865, and Montgomery was a major slave trading destination. The Alabama Senate Wednesday gave final approval to a bill making Juneteenth a state holiday. (Brian Lyman/Alabama Reflector)

The Alabama Senate Wednesday gave final approval to a bill making Juneteenth a state holiday in Alabama.

HB 165, sponsored by Rep. Rick Rehm, R-Dothan, closes state government offices on June 19 for the holiday, which celebrates the end of slavery in the U.S. The bill passed on a 13-5 vote. Nearly half of the Senate body abstained from voting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sen. Tim Melson, R-Decatur; Sen. Larry Stutts, R-Tuscambia; Sen. Shay Shelnutt, R-Trussville; Sen. Jack Williams, R-Wilmer and Sen. April Weaver, R-Alabaster, voted against the bill.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

Sen. Andrew Jones, R-Centre; Sen. Jabo Waggoner, R-Vestavia Hills; Sen. Clyde Chambliss, R-Prattville; Sen. Chris Elliott, R-Josephine, and Sen. David Sessions, R-Grand Bay, voted with Senate Democrats in favor of the bill.

The legislation passed after years of efforts by Black Democrats in the Alabama Legislature, who either saw their proposals rejected or were effectively forced by Republicans to pair Juneteenth with Jefferson Davis Birthday, a state holiday honoring the slaveholder and white supremacist who said that Black Americans were fitted expressly for human servitude.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rep. Juanadalynn Givan, D-Birmingham, sponsored a bill last year that would have required state employees to choose Juneteenth or Jefferson Davis Birthday as their day off, a choice not required of any other state holiday.

House Black Democrats said during the debate on the bill last year that they struggled to vote for the legislation because of the Davis requirement. The House approved the bill, but it did not reach the Senate floor for a vote. Rehms bill as passed makes Juneteenth a standalone holiday.

The bill goes to Gov. Kay Ivey, who has made Juneteenth a state holiday for the last four years. A message seeking comment was left with Iveys office on Wednesday. Gina Maiola, a spokesperson for the governor, said in a text message Ivey plans to sign the legislation.

Juneteenth has also been a federally recognized holiday since 2021.

This story was updated at 3:22 p.m. to indicate Gov. Kay Ivey plans to sign the bill.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP)  Alabama will soon join the states that have banned or restricted the presence of cellphones in schools.

The Alabama Senate on Wednesday voted 30-2 for the bill to prohibit students in K-12 public schools from using phones during the school day. The phones must be turned off and stored off their person in a locker, car or similar storage location during the instructional day.

The bill now goes to Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey for her signature. Ivey used a portion of her State of the State address earlier this year to urge lawmakers to pass the cellphone ban.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the school systems where this has been implemented, it has worked, Republican Sen. Donnie Chesteen said.

Many schools already ban the use of the devices. The legislation will require all school systems to do so. The Alabama bill leaves it up to schools on how to store the devices.

A growing number of states are moving to ban or restrict cellphones in schools. The push has been fueled by concerns that phones are a distraction in the classroom and that screen time and social media negatively impact mental health.

Several states, including Arkansas, California, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Ohio, South Carolina and Virginia, have enacted measures banning or restricting students use of cellphones in schools. Similar bills have been proposed in multiple statehouses across the country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Republican Sen. Chris Elliott tried unsuccessfully to add an amendment to create an exemption for students to communicate with their parents.

You are going to hear from parents back home if this passes, and they are not able to communicate with their child about practice being cancelled, a car breaking down, Elliott said.
Editors Note: This story has been updated to reflect the correct month when Antoine Mordicans company received a medical cannabis business license.

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT)  Delays in the rollout of medical cannabis in Alabama continue amid court battles and political fights.

One of the companies stuck in a wait-and-see mode is owned by Alabama A&M engineering school graduate Antoine Mordican Sr. Mordican is the CEO and owner of Native Black Cultivation which has operations in Bessemer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mother and son with special needs lose everything to a fire

Medical cannabis was legalized in Alabama in 2021, but nearly four years later, patients still cannot get access. The regulatory board overseeing the rollout, the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission, has been plagued by early missteps, three rounds of license issuances, and multiple lawsuits stemming from those problems. Mordican tells News 19 he began working as an engineer after college, but saw the opportunity to build a hemp business and later a cannabis business in Alabama.

His company was awarded a cultivator license during the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commissions third round of licenses in December 2023, under an emergency rule provision. That provision is now the subject of a Montgomery County Circuit Court ruling that may further

delay the medical cannabis rollout.

The circuit court ruling creates further uncertainty for companies like Mordicans that received license awards under the emergency rule. The AMCC has filed an appeal asking a state appeals court to overturn the circuit courts order.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mordican told News 19 he is still optimistic about providing medical cannabis for patients in Alabama, but the path has included a number of challenges.

Once we are awarded our license, we have 60 days to get everything in our parameters in place, to be able to cultivate medical cannabis here in Alabama, Mordican said. Sixty days? That is extremely tough. However, Im a unique individual, I already had the infrastructure, already had the land from the things I was doing on the hemp side and I was able to retrofit everything to be able to achieve that 60 days.

His company began growing cannabis for medical use

I had my first harvest of medical cannabis June 1st of last year, 2024, Mordican said. And I was hoping at least by then the commission would have everything figured out, all the licenses would be issued. I was very optimistic we would have a fully open industry here in Alabama. However, thats not our case.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Nearly a year after that first harvest Alabama market still doesnt exist, as court fights over commission missteps and license awards continue. Mordican had to store that first harvest, for hoped-for future use. But the uncertainty is not easy.

Im still cultivating medical cannabis, he said. Im fulfilling my duties and responsibilities as a cultivator and Im hoping to get it to the people of Alabama very soon.

But the costs are mounting.

Unfortunately, no one has been able to generate any money, Mordican said. Out of $80,000 in licensing fees, hundreds of thousands of dollars in infrastructure equipment, hundreds of thousands of dollars in equipment, things like that. As of right now, its an absolute loss. But were very optimistic about the future, we have products thats ready to go to serve the people of Alabama.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mordican said he blames the delays on the few companies who sued over licensing, not the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission or the Alabama Legislature.

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.
The Alaska and American flags fly in front of the Alaska State Capitol on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. (Photo by James Brooks/Alaska Beacon)

The day before the Alaska Senate was scheduled to vote on the multibillion-dollar state operating budget, members of the Senates Finance Committee met to consider a last-minute amendment.

There was one problem  no one from the Office of Management and Budget showed up.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That office is the executive branchs financial agency, and its absence was remarkable, if not unprecedented, legislators said Tuesday.

It wasnt an isolated incident.

As the Alaska Legislature enters the last weeks of its regular session, Gov. Mike Dunleavys administration has warned department staff against entering the state Capitol unless they have special permission from the executive branch.

On one key bill, the executive branch appears to have stopped working with legislators altogether.

When you have a whole department thats just saying were not going to help you with a piece of legislation, Ive never experienced that in my time here, said Sen. Bill Wielechowski, D-Anchorage.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The executive branchs policy change was outlined in a memo published Monday by the political site Alaska Landmine.

Out of respect to the legislature and the amount of work they have to complete in the next three weeks, beginning this Monday  there is to be no department staff in the Capitol building without express approval, wrote Jordan Shilling, director of the governors boards and commissions office. This includes commissioners, deputies, directors and liaisons and remains in effect until adjournment.

Shillings memo is drawing additional attention because members of the House and Senates majority caucuses have already said they would like the governor to be present in the Capitol more often.

Ive never seen this. Its not helpful to our work. Theyre the experts, said Rep. Andy Josephson, D-Anchorage and co-chair of the House Finance Committee.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A spokesperson for the governor said the policy has precedent.

Executive branch staff are not forbidden from entering the capitol. If you read the attached email, it clearly states that staff will need approval to be in the building between now and adjournment, said Jeff Turner, the governors communications director, by email.

This is not a new policy; the Dunleavy administration and previous administrations have enacted a similar policy in the closing days of session to facilitate an orderly end to the session, he said. Department staff will continue to testify in committees and provide information as needed to legislators and their staff.

A legislative director for a former governor said previous administrations verbally warned staff away from the Capitol in the last days of a session, and to limit visits to only what was absolutely necessary.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Putting a warning in writing, and requiring permission, is unusual, the person said.

After the initial publication of this article, Turner said OMB Director Lacey Sanders was absent from the Senate Finance Committee hearing on Tuesday because her schedule was already full when the request came in.

Josephson raised questions about the meaning of the memo.

One concern is  is it meant to reflect a protest of the Legislatures work writ large for this session? Josephson asked. To use a childs version of this: Are we in trouble? Did we do something wrong?

When it comes to Senate Bill 113, a pivotal revenue measure scheduled for a House vote Wednesday, the Department of Revenue is declining to answer questions even electronically or by phone, Wielechowski said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is a problem when we have a department who created the bill, gave it to us, we filed it, and now refuses to work with us, on or off the record, he said.

SB 113 updates the way the state handles corporate taxes on businesses that sell to Alaskans over the internet. Right now, if an Alaskan buys a movie from Netflix, that company can decide to pay corporate income taxes to the state where its servers are based, where its headquarters are located, or somewhere else.

SB 113 says that those taxes must be paid in the state where the sale takes place. Its an idea worth as much as $65 million per year for the state, and it was inspired by Lucinda Mahoney, former commissioner of the Department of Revenue, Wielechowski said.

Turner, the governors communications director, said Wielechowski doesnt have it right.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Dunleavy administration has never officially proposed the new tax measure contained in Sen. Wielechowskis bill, and it never drafted a bill even remotely like it, he said by email. It was an idea floated by a former commissioner during the Fiscal Policy Working Group hearings.

After Turners comments were published, Wielechowskis office provided a copy of a draft bill dated 2021 and sent to his office by the Department of Revenue.

Presented with the draft, Turner said on Wednesday morning that a former Dunleavy administration employee did draft the bill but that the administration did not formally introduce it.

SB 113 is intended to pay for reading-improvement grants included within House Bill 57, a popular education funding bill that the House and Senate passed last month with bipartisan support.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Senate President Gary Stevens, R-Kodiak has been in the Legislature for a quarter-century.

I have never seen that either, he said about the policy change. This is my 25th year, and I have never seen anything before like that.  As we continue in this legislative process, will we be able to speak to the departments? Will they be able to speak to us? Can we find out whats going on? Are they going to be here in the building, which is preferable? Are they going to be online, which is not quite so good, but OK? Are they simply not going to be available? We simply dont know that answer.

Editors note: This article has been updated to include information on why the Office of Management and Budget director did not attend the Senate Finance Committee hearing, as well as the drafting history of similar legislation.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
May 7JUNEAU  The Alaska Senate on Monday unanimously advanced a measure requiring greater legislative oversight of the state's oil and gas tax collections.

Since 2019, the Alaska Department of Revenue has declined to provide the Legislature's auditor with oil and gas tax data in the format requested. Lawmakers have been frustrated that they don't have a full picture of those tax collections that can total hundreds of millions of dollars per year.

Senate Bill 183 would require agencies to provide tax information in the "form and format" requested by the auditor. The measure clarifies that failing to do so could incur a fine of up to $5,000.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Senate unanimously approved the measure on Monday, sending it to the House for its consideration.

Kris Curtis, the Legislature's auditor, told lawmakers last week that the Department of Revenue audits oil and gas tax returns to ensure the state is getting all of the revenue it is owed.

"When an underpayment is identified, this group sends an assessment letter to the taxpayer identifying additional tax due. This is referred to as tax assessments. A taxpayer may also be required to pay interest," she said.

The information requested by the auditor includes additional taxes, interest and penalties paid by oil and gas companies each year. Between 2006 and 2011, the total tax and interest assessed by the Department of Revenue added up to $1.3 billion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gov. Mike Dunleavy took office in late 2018. Curtis said the Department of Revenue stopped providing that information in the format requested around 2019. Instead, the agency has provided a "data dump" that lawmakers say is unusable.

The Department of Revenue first said the requested data was confidential, despite being routinely provided in the past, Curtis told lawmakers. More recently, revenue officials have said they were not required by law to provide the data in the format requested, she said. That has led Curtis to issue "qualified" reports on the state's oil and gas tax collections, reflecting that incomplete information was provided.

"Reluctance on behalf of the Department of Revenue to provide information from an audit perspective raises a lot of red flags," Curtis said in testimony on the bill. "And I have concerns from the audit perspective as to why. And I would like to help determine that, not just for you, but for the public."

Before Monday's vote, Anchorage Democratic Sen. Bill Wielechowski said the Department of Revenue is responsible for reviewing oil and gas tax returns, and ensuring that the state of Alaska is receiving every dollar owed to it. He said the agency's refusal to provide "usable information" for the legislative auditor and lawmakers "sets a dangerous precedent" that could obscure future audits.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"That's not theoretical. That's real money resulting from real audits, directly affecting the state's bottom line," he said.

Aimee Bushnell, a spokesperson for the Department of Revenue, said by email Tuesday that "nothing is blocked" by the agency and that "legislative auditors have access to all information" on oil and gas tax collections.

[Alaska Senate approves austere budget with $1,000 PFD ahead of final negotiations]

[Alaska Legislature approves corporate tax revenue-raising measure on online businesses]

Bushnell said that previously, the legislative auditor created various tables based on data provided by the agency. But the auditor updated those tables around 2017, she said. The state agency "spent many hours trying to plug information" into those tables "that do not reflect how the tax system compiles and maintains its data," Bushnell said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Management at the state Tax Division determined there were more efficient ways to report the oil and gas collection data, she said. Additionally, it was "overly cumbersome" to compile the information in the format requested by the auditor, and "by producing these tables on a regular basis, we could not maintain taxpayer confidentiality," Bushnell said.

Legislators have long been frustrated that the auditor is not getting the data in the format requested.

Anchorage Democratic Sen. Elvi Gray-Jackson, chair of the Legislative Budget and Audit Committee, sent a letter in February asking that the Dunleavy administration "fully cooperate" with the legislative auditor.

"If executive branch agencies can pick and choose what information to provide or what format, they can intentionally, or not, obstruct the Legislature's ability to perform independent oversight on behalf of the public, effectively hiding billions of dollars from public view," she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

SB 183 was supported by all senators present in Juneau on Monday.

Wasilla Republican Sen. Mike Shower, the Senate minority leader, said he was initially concerned the auditor would be granted too much undue influence over the executive branch. But he said the measure does not expand the auditor's authority. Instead, it helps ensure the Legislature has "appropriate oversight and authority over the budget," he said.

After passing the Senate, the bill now heads to the House, where it is being fast-tracked through the committee process. A first hearing has been scheduled on Thursday with two weeks left in the regular legislative session.

[Alaska governor's staff warns executive branch away from state Capitol in session's last days]
Canadas Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said Monday she would hold a referendum for the provinces departure from the Great White North if a citizens petition obtains the necessary signatures for a vote.

To be clear from the outset, our government will not be putting a vote on separation from Canada on the referendum ballot; however, if there is a successful citizen-led referendum petition that is able to gather the requisite number of signatures requesting such a question to be put to a referendum, our government will respect the democratic process and include that question on the 2026 provincial referendum ballot as well, she said during her public address, according to the governments transcript.

Throughout her remarks, Smith said she opposed secession but slammed the federal government for political attacks on the region, which is rich in oil and other natural resources.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Our province has contributed hundreds of billions of dollars more to the federal treasury for use in other parts of the country than well ever receive back in benefits, she said.

The premier said anti-energy, anti-agriculture and anti-resource development policies have scared away global investment to the tune of more than a half-trillion dollars.

Her discontent comes amid the Trump administrations quips urging Canada to become the 51st state, which some Albertans say is the best path forward.

My dream scenario is a bit like the example of the United Kingdom, where Alberta, or perhaps all of Canada, would be like Scotland. We would be connected and unified with the United States, but we would maintain a very distinct society, Robert Low, an Alberta resident, told the National Observer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The countrys new prime minister, Mark Carney, has sharply opposed the idea, as did his predecessor, Justin Trudeau.

Smith said she met with Carney earlier this year and noted that their conversation was promising. However, Smith said she would wait to judge the leader on his actions rather than his words.

In her address, she said, I will in good faith work with Prime Minister Mark Carney on unwinding the mountain of destructive legislation and policies that have ravaged our provincial and national economies this past decade  until I see tangible proof of real change  Alberta will be taking steps to better protect ourselves from Ottawa.

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.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  There is a renewed push for a federal investigation into allegations that Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller misused COVID-19 federal grant money. As KRQE News 13 reported in January, a city inspector general report stated that nearly $300,000 in federal emergency relief funding meant to help childcare providers instead went to bonuses for 27 city workers.

Millions in opioid settlement funding allocated by Albuquerque City Council

Albuquerque City Councilor Dan Lewis referred the Inspector General report to then-U.S. Attorney for New Mexico Alex Uballez. Since then, President Donald Trumps Administration has appointed a new U.S. attorney, Ryan Ellison, whom Lewis sent a letter to on Tuesday asking for an investigation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The U.S. Attorneys Office told KRQE News 13 that they cant provide further details or comment on the status of any 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 KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
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?
TOWN OF ALEXANDRIA, N.Y. (WWTI)  A 26-year-old Alexandria Bay woman is facing multiple charges after allegedly forcing her way into a home with the intention of assaulting someone.

According to the Jefferson County Sheriffs Office, Mackenzie Gray allegedly forced her way inside of a residence around 7 p.m. Sunday, May 5 on the Limestone Road in the town of Alexandria.

Jefferson Co. pair charged in death of two-year-old girl

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gray allegedly shoved a man in the process and struck a woman in front of a child.

Gray was charged with two counts of second-degree harassment, third-degree burglary and acting in a manner injurious to a child less than 17 years of age.

She was arraigned in the Jefferson County CAP Court and released on her own recognizance.

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.
Details added: first version posted on May 6, 16:39

AGHDAM, Azerbaijan, May 6. As part of their visit to Aghdam, Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Asadov and Belarusian Prime Minister Alexander Turchin toured the village of Gizil Kangarli, Trend reports.

Minister of Agriculture Majnun Mammadov and Deputy Chairman of the State Committee on Urban Planning and Architecture Dovletkhan Dovletkhanov briefed the delegation on the agro-town project to be implemented in the village.

The agro-town will be developed with the involvement of Belarusian specialists. The project is expected to significantly contribute to the comprehensive development of residential areas in Aghdam, the revitalization of rural communities, and the regional economy.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
The woman killed by an alligator on a Central Florida lake Tuesday was attacked after her canoe passed over the reptile in shallow water, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission announced Wednesday.

The attack occurred near the mouth of Tiger Creek on Lake Kissimmee, just east of Osceola County, where the woman and her husband were canoeing in two feet of water when investigators believe they startled the alligator by drifting over it.

The alligator then thrashed and tipped over the canoe. The woman, who sat at the bow, fell on top of the reptile and was bitten as her husband tried to intervene but failed, FWC Maj. Evan Laskowski told reporters. FWC identified the woman as 61-year-old Cynthia Diekema of Davenport.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Polk County Sheriffs Office deputies and marine units assisted in the search and an agency helicopter found her body in the water. Two alligators were captured, including an 11-footer FWC said matched the description of the one who attacked the woman.

The investigation of the incident is ongoing.

This was not believed to be a predatory incident, but just simply a defensive incident where they came upon the alligator beneath the waters edge and when the canoe struck it, it caused a reaction, FWC Officer Bradley Johnson said.

Serious injuries caused by alligators are rare in Florida, with just five deadly gator attacks between 2014 and November 2024, the last month for which FWC data is available. None took place in 2024, which saw 11 gator attacks statewide. Thats nearly half the attacks reported in 2023, which saw 23 with one deadly, according to agency figures.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

FWC administers a Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program to remove those believed to pose a threat to people, pets or property.

Tuesdays attack was the second in that area within two months  a woman was bitten March 3 while kayaking there. Lake Kissimmee has the second-highest gator population of any lake in the state, The Ledger reported using FWC data.

FWC Executive Director Roger Young said alligators are especially active now during mating season.

During this time, when alligators are active, we strongly encourage the public to keep their distance from alligators, Young said.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP)  An alligator killed a Florida woman after tipping over a canoe she and her husband were paddling, which investigators say appeared to be an accidental encounter.

The attack happened Tuesday afternoon near the mouth of Tiger Creek into Lake Kissimmee, south of Orlando, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said. It's near the same location as a March alligator attack in which a woman was bitten on the elbow while kayaking.

Investigators said at a news conference Wednesday that the couple was canoeing in about 2.5 feet (less than 1 meter) of water when they came upon a large alligator. The startled animal thrashed suddenly, tipping over the canoe and sending both people into the water.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It sounds like the canoe drifted over, on top of the alligator. The alligator was startled, said Roger Young, the FWC executive director.

Witnesses told investigators the husband tried to fight off the animal but was unsuccessful. FWC officials identified the victim as 61-year-old Cynthia Diekema of Davenport, Florida. It wasn't clear if her husband was injured.

A trapper captured an alligator measuring more than 11 feet (3.3 meters) that is suspected of being the animal involved, but investigators caught another large alligator that also could have been responsible, officials said.

Since 1948, when officials began tracking alligator bites involving people in Florida, there have been 487 unprovoked bites through 2024, according to FWC data. Of those, 339 were major bites and 27 were fatal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The most recent fatal alligator attack was in February 2023 when 85-year-old Gloria Serge was killed while walking her dog along a community pond in Fort Pierce, officials said. Earlier that year, a 23-year-old man lost his arm in an attack near a pond behind a bar in Port Charlotte.

Alligator encounters with humans are more common in the spring mating season when they are most active, Young said. There are an estimated 1.3 million alligators in Florida.

While alligator attacks resulting in fatalities are extremely rare, this tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the powerful wildlife that share our natural spaces, Young said. Be cautious of your surroundings. Know what wildlife is in the area.

The alligator attack comes as FWC officials continue to investigate a rare fatal black bear attack Monday that took the life of 89-year-old Robert Markel and his dog near his home in Collier County, in southwest Florida. Wildlife officers have killed three bears in the area since the attack.

The FWC plans public hearings on whether to hold a black bear hunt in parts of Florida later this year.
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  Students and staff at the ALTA preschool on Wilkinson Avenue got together Wednesday to thank a city police officer.

Read next: Hubbard students ditch the bus Wednesday

They made a thank you card for Officer Joe Moran, who helped them last month after a driver was harassing one of their buses. The man would be behind the bus when it stopped to pick up students, and he would yell at the bus because he was upset he had to wait.



ALTA staff called police and Moran was called to watch the bus. He encountered the driver on Manhattan Avenue and talked to him. The man has ceased bothering the bus.



Bus driver Taylor Wilson said the students were afraid of the man and they were grateful that Moran got him to stop yelling at the bus, so they got together to make him a card.



Moran did not want to comment for this story, but he thanked the students, saying, This is the biggest card Ive ever gotten. He also gave the students a tour of his police cruiser.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
On the centennial day of President Donald Trumps second administration, a D.C. tabloid dropped a turd in the oligarchs punchbowl by reporting Amazon would start listing the cost of Trump's tariffs alongside higher prices. The kerfuffle that followed isnt a fraction as discombobulating as most other Trump-related news such as the horrifically disturbing saga of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, or the dissociative moment the president deemed foreign films a national security threat.

Unfortunately, this makes an overlooked dimension of the Amazon Haul story that much easier to miss: the poorest Americans, increasingly reliant on these supercheap discount retailers, which themselves are reliant on Chinas supercheap costs. As Trumps tariffs stand to raise prices, these consumers are left with few other options in the private market for affordable, readily available goods  something that should be seen as a monstrous failure of our current capitalist system.

In the predictable hours that followed the tabloids story, the turd was dealt with. The president called Jeff Bezos while the White House called the proposal a hostile and political act. Amazon issued two statements, the first clarifying that the plan was never a consideration for the main Amazon site" and the second saying the idea was never approved and is not going to happen.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The team that runs our ultra low cost Amazon Haul store had considered the idea, the spokesperson said in Amazons first statement, referring to the companys new Temu-style megamall it launched in November.

After Amazons emphatic clarification, Trump called Bezos a good guy, very nice and terrific before heading to an event in Michigan to celebrate his 100th day. He solved the problem very quickly, the president said. And as he jetted off to the Midwest, the oligarchs party was back on track.

Amazons word choice, in its statement that its Haul team had the idea, is what first caught my eye. To be fair, a lot of wording caught my eye in that exchange, including Trumps identification of the problem not as his tariffs raising our prices, but Amazon publicly disclosing that his tariffs are raising prices. But in Amazons first statement, it described Haul as hawking ultra low cost goods  not imported goods, or goods uniquely reliant on global supply chains. And its easy to imagine Amazon choosing to use the words ultra low cost to capitalize on some Trump-related press and boost awareness of its new Temu-like offering  that would make sense, considering that in its first three months, most people hadnt once tried Amazon Haul.

But the cynic in me  and Im typically OK with cynicism toward people and corporations demonstrating no limit to their personal greed or avarice for the common good  sees the word choice as capitalistically Freudian, a dark reminder that both Amazon and Trump know those price increases were only going to be seen by the companys lowest-income shoppers, most of whom have little other choice in the market.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its a billionaires dogwhistle, flagging that theres nothing to see here, and there never was, because those price increases werent going to be seen by Amazons flagship demo: white, high-consumption women in their 30s and 40s who earn around $60,000 per year and spend nearly $2,660 on Amazon in a given year. Take away even 25% of that income for taxes, and that Amazon spending amounts to nearly 6% of their annual income.

Instead, Hauls disclosure was going to be seen by consumers whose annual spend on the site might be closer to $300, and whose economic security is, to people like Trump and corporations like Amazon, an abstract thought experiment.

For Americas most financially vulnerable shoppers, Trumps tariffs make a dire situation wholly unsustainable. Dollar stores like Dollar General and Dollar Tree are culling the number of products priced at $1, while others like 99 Cents Only and Family Dollar have shuttered hundreds of stores. In 2023, the discount retailer Five Below went full cognitive dissonance with its new Five Beyond brand, featuring items priced above $5. And the discount grocery Aldis prices have gone up in the last year, too.

Walmart and Target, the two most popular retailers among low-income Americans, imported extra inventory before Trumps tariffs took effect and have so far managed not to raise prices. But over a week ago, executives from those companies, as well as from Home Depot, told Trump that they cant hold on much longer without raising prices.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Christopher Wimer, director of the Center on Poverty and Social Policy at Columbia University, told Salon "anything that's driving up prices further is going to directly harm those living close to the edge of poverty and make an already untenable situation even worse. He said the number of Americans living below the poverty line has been really rapidly increasing in recent years, as the costs of food, housing and every other basic necessity rise.

More than one in 10 Americans, or around 37.9 million people, were living below the poverty line in 2022. In 2023, the most recent year such data is available, the share of Americans living below that line increased again, Wimer said.

Amazon Haul was created to compete with Temu, the digital megamall that sells directly from Chinese manufacturers, translating to cartoonishly low prices: $5 sneakers, a $6 foam mattress topper. Just one year after Temu launched in the U.S. in 2022, Reuters reported the website had already gobbled up 17% of the discount e-commerce market.

Temus success didnt happen in a vacuum, and it may mirror the remarkable financial insecurity fueling demand for crappy, $3 table lamps. To be fair, Temus popularity isnt totally tied to how broke everybody is  Temus hyperactive interface is a masterclass in gamified consumption, rendering a purchase of new socks a trip to the digital casino.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But its also fair to say that if American shoppers werent so desperate for a break from high prices, Temu wouldnt have grabbed a fifth of the discount market in under a year. More than half of the apps regular users earn less than $50,000 a year.

And while these supercheap retailers are a bigger part of the problem than they are the solution, their absence in the U.S. retail marketplace leaves Americas poorest with virtually no reliable provider of their most basic goods.

Looking at the broader picture, its hard to pinpoint any major retailer or chain stepping up to truly serve the needs of low-income Americans right now, George Carrillo, a former director in Oregons state health office and expert on healths social determinants, told Salon. This leaves families in an impossible position, forced to make tough choices about cutting back on essentials like groceries, medical care or even utilities.

If were living in an era of late-stage capitalism, and if every dimension of the human experience  culture, dating, art, everything  has been commodified, monetized or become inextricable from spending and consumption, then what does it say about capitalism when the poorest Americans still cant afford basic goods? Adam Smith might think its failed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For Smith, a good measure of national wealth was how readily available, how plentiful and how cheap and how accessible basic necessities are. So, he really cared about whether you have enough food to live on and to survive  not just survive, but actually live a meaningful life.

Thats Glory Liu, the author of "Adam Smiths America: How a Scottish Philosopher became an Icon of American Capitalism," speaking with Sean Illing on Voxs "The Gray Area" podcast. Her book is aimed at correcting the modern understanding of Smith, an 18th century moral philosopher widely regarded as the ideological father of modern-day capitalism. But Smiths best-known works and ideas  the 1776 book "The Wealth of Nations," his invisible hand theory  have been misappropriated over the years, twisted into support for capitalism as some sort of morally good, biologically determined atom-smashing that takes place anytime two or more humans exchange goods or services.

In reality, Smith was first and foremost a philosopher, and someone you might even call a spiritual thinker. His interest in capitalism, ultimately, was rooted in his interest in morality  and how a rapidly-industrializing society could do so justly.

Liu said Smith acknowledged there are certain kinds of goods that we might consider superfluous, or maybe more than basic, like a linen shirt. But Smith also said that if, in our society, a person who doesn't have a linen shirt cannot go about in public life without facing shame and ridicule, that's a basic necessity, Liu said. And people should be able to access these basic necessities cheaply and plentifully.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She continued: When the kind of lowest members of society have cheap and ready and plentiful access to basic goods so that they not only can survive, but also live in public life without fear of shame or ridicule, that is when a nation is prosperous.

Shop like a billionaire: Thats Temus now-ubiquitous slogan, offering folks the chance to experience life as a consumer without restrictions. And when you remember that those words, and all those other businesses shilling the same fantasy, are coming from billionaires who experience that reality every day, its insulting, isn't it?

Cynically, it wouldve been a smart move by Amazon to publish Trumps tariffs on its Haul offering. By doing so, Amazon mightve been to spin it as sensitivity to its poorest customers financial woes, and critics may not have flagged that the company was being transparent only with consumers with little other choice. Trump wouldve been pissed, of course  but that, too, mightve given him another chance to rail against how reliant American companies have become on cheap Chinese manufacturing. Point being, Amazon wasnt strong-armed into submitting to Trumps will, anymore than activists are forced to protest in the streets. Amazon made a choice. And its a choice that should remind all consumers, but especially those with the fewest choices, that corporations purporting to serve you dont see you as fully human, or at least not as human as themselves.
For anyone who has wondered what an America First foreign policy looks like, Donald Trump provided a vivid example today when he declared a cease-fire with the Houthis, the Yemeni militia that has been under U.S. bombardment for the past seven weeks.

The Houthis have capitulated and agreed to no longer target American ships, Trump said, interrupting a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney with an impromptu announcement that appeared to take some of his own team by surprise. In exchange, the United States will cease its aerial war on the Houthis, the president said.

In other words, the U.S. has extracted itself from the conflict but not ended it. There is no sign that the Houthis will end their war with Israel. They struck near Israels main airport with a missile on Sunday, setting off a round of violence in which Israel bombarded sites across Yemen today, leaving the countrys main airport in flames. The Houthis issued a defiant bulletin saying that the Israeli attacks will not pass without a response and that the Houthi government will not abandon its position regarding Gaza.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some analysts even questioned whether the American truce would apply to Britain and other Western allies whose ships have been struck by the Houthis. If not, it would take the meaning of America First to new heights, and the transatlantic relationship to new lows. In the now-notorious Signal chat among top Trump officials in March, Vice President J. D. Vance said that he was reluctant to launch a war in Yemen if it meant doing a favor for Americas European allies, whose ships have also been attacked by the Houthis.

But the statement issued by the foreign minister of Oman, Badr bin Hamad al-Busaidi, whose country was involved in the talks that led to the deal, seemed to suggest that the truce would cover other Western countries: It will ensure the smooth flow of international commercial shipping, the statement said.

The agreement is a welcome reprieve for the Trump administration, whose war against the Houthis was threatening to become something of a quagmire. Although recent American strikes did some damage to the Yemeni group, they fell far short of Trumps goal to completely annihilate the militia. The Houthis will remain a potent menace to the entire Gulf region, having proved over the past 18 months that they can disrupt international shipping at will.

[Robert F. Worth: Bombing the Houthis wont work]

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Houthis have not made any official statements about the truce, and some analysts are wondering how the leaders of an Islamist group rooted in hatred of America and Israel will justify dealing with an American administration that does not even pretend to be restraining Israels war in Gaza.

If youre a Houthi, this is the last moment youd make a deal like this, with Gaza still in flames and much of Yemen under Israeli attack, Bernard Haykel, a professor of Near Eastern Studies at Princeton University, told me.

One explanation for the timing may be that the Trump administration and the Iranians are circling a new deal to contain Irans nuclear ambitions. Iran has been the Houthis main military sponsor and patron, and it has substantial influence over them. Perhaps Tehran intended to present the cease-fire as a goodwill gesture in the nuclear talks, Mohammed al-Basha, a Yemen analyst and the founder of the Basha Report, suggested to me. Trumps envoy Steven Witkoff is leading the Iran talks, and he was quick to repost on X the Omani foreign ministers announcement of the Houthi deal this afternoon.

Trumps announcement could also be connected to his upcoming trip to the Gulf, where he will meet with the leaders of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. The Saudis have been urging the Iranian regime to strike a nuclear accord with the United States and even sent their defense minister to meet with Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the supreme leader of Iran, last month.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump mentioned his upcoming trip during the Oval Office meeting with Carney today and added that before his departure, he will have a very, very big announcement to make. If that announcement turns out to be a new deal to contain Irans nuclear ambitions, maybe the Houthis will have had something to do with it.

Article originally published at The Atlantic
Three of the five former Memphis police officers charged in the fatal beating Tyre Nichols faced trial this week on second-degree murder charges. After watching the horrifying footage we all did, of Nichols being beaten bloodied and mocked, the mostly white jury finally came back with a verdict...

Not guilty.

Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley and Justin Smith were acquitted of second-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official oppression and official misconduct following a nine-day trial and over eight hours of jury deliberation. The three hugged their attorneys following the verdict reading. One relative from the crowd yelled, Thank you, Jesus!, according to The AP.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Prosecutors argued that the trio along with former cops Emmitt Martin and Desmond Mills Jr. used Nichols as a punching bag out of frustration. However, the defense threw most of the heat on Martin, claiming he was the main assailant and also claimed Nichols resisted arrest, warranting the beating. His trial was severed from the others while Mills took a plea.

Reactions are still filing in but people are disappointed, to say the very least.

Todays verdicts are a devastating miscarriage of justice. The world watched as Tyre Nichols was beaten to death by those sworn to protect and serve, said civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump, in a statement.

They were devastated. ... I think they were outraged, and we can understand why they would be outraged, given the evidence, said Memphis District Attorney Steve Mulroy of Nichols family following the verdict. He also said every claim brought by the prosecutors was supported by evidence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Folks on social media were just as heated, having watched the body camera footage of the incident and followed the case as the Nichols family fought for justice.

Im at a loss for words. Along with many of you, I watched the video of Tyre Nichols getting beaten to death by cops, executed in the street, calling for his mother in his final moments. Those cops were just ACQUITTED. Our justice system is a JOKE, said one X user.

Im confused. Maybe somebody can help me understand. Tyre Nichols was beaten so viciously he was calling out to his mother. The officers mocked him, using his bloody body as a prop in pics they sent to other people. And yet they were still acquitted, wrote another user.

Theyre not home free, though. They were still found guilty of federal charges in connection to the incident and await sentencing.

For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
YORKTOWN, Va. (WAVY)  A naturalization ceremony for people receiving American citizenship will be held at the American Revolution Museum on Thursday.

99 eligible candidates from 45 countries will take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States and become American citizens.

Before the ceremony, members of the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation Honor Guard and Field Musick Virginia will lead the participants in a patriotic procession from the museums education center to open the ceremony.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pamata Lotoa, USCIS Norfolk Field Office Immigration Services Officer, will administer the Oath of Allegiance to participants and Leon Vaughan, a Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation living-history interpreter, will be the speaker for the event.

Museum admission is $20 for adults and $10 for ages 6 through 12. Children ages 5 and under are free.

Residents of York County, James City County and the City of Williamsburg, including William & Mary students, receive free admission with proof of residency.

The ceremony, which begins at 11:30 a.m., is hosted by the Yorktown Comte de Grasse Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution and the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation in partnership with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services of the Department of Homeland Security.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation has published its list of the most endangered places in America for 2025, highlighting historic and significant sites across the country in danger of being lost forever. For 38 years now, the National Trust has been issuing the list in effort to build awareness, successfully gaining support for more than 350 sites through community-led preservation. Thanks to their efforts, only a handful have been lost to date.



This years list features a wide range of sites including towns in the southern region of the nation that were hit by Hurricane Helene and other tropical storms last fall, as well as significant Indigenous heritage landmarks and noteworthy lodges and hotels throughout the country. Here, a closer look at every site on the National Trusts list of Americas 11 most endangered historic places for 2025.





Cedar Key, Florida

Photo credit: Photo by Pat Bonish - Bonish Studio, Cedar Key

The small archipelago located in Floridas Gulf Coast is at risk due to rising sea levels and increased severe storm events. Many of the historic wood frame homes, the waterfront area, the post office, and city hall were damaged during Hurricane Helene in September of 2024. Community leaders are working to create preservation-sensitive resilience plans that could help save the historic structures and landmarks. Additional support will help ensure that Cedar Key continues to recover and thrive in the future.





French Broad and Swannanoa River Corridors, Western North Carolina

Photo credit: Drew Wallace

Asheville and countless other towns along the French Broad and Swannanoa River corridors have transformed the region into an arts and culture mecca over the last few decades. The area was devastated after Hurricane Helene when the rivers reached record-breaking levels and flooded the communities. While recovery efforts are underway, much of the River Arts District, Biltmore Village in Asheville, and other surrounding towns are still reeling from the damage and need support to rebuild.





Hotel Casa Blanca, Idlewild, Michigan

Photo credit: Ronella McGregory

The Hotel Casa Blanca, located in Idlewild, Michigan, was the go-to lodging destination for Black travelers and leaders during segregation. The historic African American resort community attracted thousands of visitors during the 1950s, with major performers like Louis Armstrong and Aretha Franklin hosting shows at the hotel. However, after integration, the town's popularity declined, and the hotel has been abandoned for over 30 years. Local leaders believe support and funding could usher in a new chapter for Hotel Casa Blanca and the community.





May Hicks Curtis House, Flagstaff, Arizona

Photo credit: Photo courtesy NTHP

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

May Hicks Curtis sewed the first Arizona state flag in 1911, earning her the nickname Betsy Ross of Arizona. Curtis devoted her life to improving her community by getting involved in countless organizations, including Flagstaffs Womens Club and the Arizona Historical Society. Her home, which serves as a historic landmark, is at risk as a new development is being built on the lot, and the house needs to be moved to prevent demolition. The City of Flagstaff is looking for support to save, relocate, and renovate the house for the community.





Mystery Castle, Phoenix, Arizona

Photo credit: Robert Graham

Boyce Luther Gulley spent over 10 years building the Mystery Castle for his daughter Mary Lou. After its completion, Mary Lou and her mother preserved the property and operated it as a tourist attraction for decades. After their deaths, a small local foundation was entrusted to preserve the structure, but a lack of funds and break-ins have resulted in the deterioration of the landmark. Local preservationists and leaders are starting a grassroots movement to save the castle and are looking to raise funds to restore it.





Oregon Caves Chateau, Cave Junction, Oregon

Photo credit: Harley Cowan

The Oregon Caves Chateau is a architectural marvel within the Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve, complete with the most extensive public collection of historic Monterey furniture in the United States and a stream running through the dining room. Once a popular lodging and resting spot, the Chateau now is looking to raise funds to provide structural upgrades that will allow it to reopen for guests in the future.





Oregon Caves Chateau, Cave Junction, Oregon

Photo credit: Harley Cowan

The Oregon Caves Chateau is a architectural marvel within the Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve, complete with the most extensive public collection of historic Monterey furniture in the United States and a stream running through the dining room. Once a popular lodging and resting spot, the Chateau now is looking to raise funds to provide structural upgrades that will allow it to reopen for guests in the future.





Pamunkey Indian Reservation, King William County, Virginia

Photo credit: Ronaldo Lopez, VCU Rice Rivers Center

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Pamunkey people have lived in Tsennacommacah (now known as the Pamunkey Indian Reservation) for at least 15,000 years. The sovereign tribal nation has never ceded its peninsula on the Pamunkey River, but the tribal lands are now at risk with rising sea levels and storms causing major flooding. The tribe is looking for funding to conduct archaeological research, preserve historic resources, expand relief efforts, and prepare for possible relocation in the future.





San Juan Hotel, San Juan, Texas

Photo credit: Gabriel Ozuna

The San Juan Hotel has a complicated history in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, but it stands as one of the most recognized landmarksand one of the last remaining historic buildings in the community. Local leaders are looking to rehabilitate the San Juan Hotel to become a site of truth-telling and reconciliation for the Mexican American community.





Terminal Island Japanese American Tuna Street Buildings, Los Angeles, California

Photo credit: Tim Yuji Yamamoto

Only two buildings remain on Terminal Island's Tuna Street, which was once the bustling main street and cultural hub of the Japanese American fishing community that lived there. Much of the community was forcibly removed and incarcerated during World War II. Today, many of their descendants and survivors are fighting to save the buildings from demolition. The community is advocating for the buildings to be preserved and used in a way that honors their ancestors.





Terminal Island Japanese American Tuna Street Buildings, Los Angeles, California

Photo credit: Tim Yuji Yamamoto

Only two buildings remain on Terminal Island's Tuna Street, which was once the bustling main street and cultural hub of the Japanese American fishing community that lived there. Much of the community was forcibly removed and incarcerated during World War II. Today, many of their descendants and survivors are fighting to save the buildings from demolition. The community is advocating for the buildings to be preserved and used in a way that honors their ancestors.





The Turtle, Niagara Falls, New York

Photo credit: University of Nebraska-Lincoln Libraries

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Designed by Arapaho architect Dennis Sun Rhode in 1981, the Turtle, known as the Native American Center for the Living Arts, stands as a symbol of cultural reclamation and celebration of Native American arts, culture, and languages. The center closed in 1996 due to financial challenges before being bought by a developer nearly 30 years ago, who shared plans to demolish the structure. The Friends of the Niagara Turtle coalition is working to reopen the cultural center, and they are looking for partnerships and funding.





The Wellington, Pine Hill, New York

Photo credit: Paul Warchol

Dating back to the late 1800s, The Wellington is one of the last surviving examples of large-scale wood-frame resorts in the Catskill region of New York. Years of deterioration have put the structure at risk of collapse. Community members have banded together to purchase the building, with plans to renovate it and turn it into a food market, cafe, and affordable housing.









You Might Also Like
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. The Republic of Azerbaijan expresses concern over further escalation of tension between the Republic of India and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Azerbaijani MFA said in a statement in connection with the growing tensions between India and Pakistan, Trend reports.

"We condemn the military attacks on the Islamic Republic of Pakistan that have killed and injured several civilians. In solidarity with the people of Pakistan, we extend our condolences to the families of the innocent victims and wish a speedy recovery to the injured."

We call on all parties to show restraint and resolve the conflict through diplomatic means, the statement says.
Its off the rails.

Amtrak will push back the start of its three-year East River Tunnel closures by two weeks after Mayor Eric Adams, Gov. Kathy Hochul and other pols blasted the shutdown as potentially leaving millions in commuting hell.

The East River Tunnel Rehabilitation project will tentatively get underway on May 23 instead of this Friday, Amtrak President Roger Harris revealed in a letter to Hochul Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The two-week delay comes after the MTA informed Amtrak that a key infrastructure project managed by the Big Apple agency is, once again, behind schedule.

The shutdown was pushed back to May 23. Getty Images

The train company signaled it would use the extra time to modify its much-hated service plan  that was approved by the MTA  and could risk train delays for millions of riders.

We believe it is important to present a united front to the traveling public, Harris wrote.

Harris said that the Long Island Rail Roads East-Bound Reroute (EBRR) project, managed by the MTA, is already six months late and will not be completed in time for Amtraks initial planned closure that was set for Friday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In light of this delay, and the concerns you and other stakeholders raised regarding the service plans, we are working with our partners at MTA and NJ TRANSIT to move the start of construction by two weeks to May 23, Harris wrote.

The MTA took offense to Harris characterization in a statement to The Post late Tuesday.

The fundamental issue is that Amtrak has consistently refused to consider the approach to rebuilding the tunnels that the MTA and others have recommended for years, a spokesperson said.

When LIRR met with them in recent weeks, it was clear that Amtrak was unprepared for this work and unready to begin, and all of our concerns were reinforced. Thats why its even more concerning that they are now looking to shift blame to others.

NY Post

Once the project does kick off, Amtrak will close for repair one of the four East River tunnels that connects Manhattans Penn Station to Queens, forcing the MTA, Amtrak and New Jersey Transit to use fewer tracks during the construction.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Workers are expected to alternate which tunnel to fix up during the three-year project  a plan that has commuters worried and outraged.

Harris requested a meeting with Hochul, and officials from the LIRR and Metro-North Railroad to discuss options such as rerouting service to Grand Central Terminal  a solution Hochul had proposed in a previous letter.

While Harris stood by the need to fully close a single tunnel tube at a time  which Amtrak maintains is the only safe and effective way to repair damage from Superstorm Sandy in 2012  he said he hopes the meeting would identify blind spots in the service plan.

Any other solution would be an expensive, short-term band-aid and a disservice to passengers and taxpayers, Harris claimed.

Mayor Eric Adams had pleaded with Amtrak to delay the closing. Paul Martinka

Amtrak said it is now working with the MTA and New Jersey Transit to adjust service plans and use the additional time to explore mitigation strategies aimed at minimizing disruption.\

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He also wrote that its important that all the agencies involved show they are good stewards of this significant taxpayer investment.

Earlier Tuesday, Adams sent a letter to US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy asking him to intervene and force Amtrak to close the tunnel only on nights and weekends  even though it could make the $1.6 billion project cost more.

Amtrak has refused to listen to reason, Adams charged, arguing shutting down the route completely makes no sense whatsoever.

Instead of doing the logical, least disruptive thing  keeping one tunnel open during the day, including rush hours, and doing repairs over time, at night and on weekends  Amtrak has decided to close that one tunnel and start repairs from scratch, immediately causing significant service limitations and potentially jeopardizing train service altogether, Adams said in his letter.

A slew of other elected officials, including Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and US Rep. Michael Lawler, have slammed the planned closures.
By Leigh Thomas

PARIS (Reuters) - European nations want to spend big on artillery, missiles and drones, but costly military pension commitments risk constraining those ambitious plans, according to previously unreported NATO-member defence budget data compiled by Reuters.

NATO's European members are rushing to ramp up spending on military hardware as a bellicose Russia threatens their eastern flank and U.S. President Donald Trump's long-term commitment to European security appears suddenly in doubt.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But for over a dozen NATO members, whose military spending Reuters analysed, pensions make up a large - and largely overlooked - chunk of their defence budgets.

While those are funds that could potentially be redirected toward firepower, experts warn that any cuts to generous retirement benefits could make it harder to recruit personnel.

"A non-insignificant portion of what is accepted as defence spending doesn't deliver any capabilities, nor more troops, nor anything, but is earmarked for pensions," said Camille Grand, a former NATO assistant secretary general for defence investment.

European nations' historical failure to meet a target to spend the equivalent of 2% of economic output on their militaries to shore up NATO's collective defences has angered Trump, who now wants to hike the threshold to 5%.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And while 23 of NATO's 32 members now meet the 2% target - up from just six in 2021 - rules allowing governments to include military pension spending distort that picture.

NATO does not publish the individual military pension expenditures of its members, 30 of which are European.

Reuters, however, compiled data that 13 NATO members - the United States, Canada and 11 European allies - reported either in their national budgets or, for some, to the United Nations.

In Belgium, Bulgaria and Italy, nearly 20% of defence budgets are used to pay soldiers' retirements, while France is not far behind at nearly 16%.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Germany's pension burden is comparatively lower at 11.5% of defence spending, shining a kinder light on a country whose complex history has traditionally made it unwilling to countenance greater militarisation but which is now ramping up its capabilities.

Germany's defence ministry did not respond to a request for comment.

The average pension spend among the 13 nations analysed by Reuters was 12% of defence budgets.

Eight of the 11 European nations met the 2% of GDP spending target last year. Excluding pensions, however, that number falls to just five.

FIREPOWER OR PENSIONS

Although NATO spending has been rising, some members are still lagging behind.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Belgium, Italy and Spain have notably committed to meet the 2% target this year, in time for a June 24-25 NATO summit in The Hague where Trump wants a deal on a 5% target.

NATO chief Mark Rutte has proposed members boost defence spending to 3.5% of GDP and commit a further 1.5% to broader security-related spending to meet Trump's demand, Reuters reported last week.

As countries debate spending hikes, however, they need to ensure the goal is actually increasing firepower, said Armin Steinbach with the Brussels-based think tank Bruegel.

"If much of the money goes into salaries or pensions, this is not productive investment," he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That won't be easy.

Italy's economy minister Giancarlo Giorgetti said last month he was "acutely aware" a spending hike was needed. But he also said the government, which currently excludes pensions from reported military spending, would change its accounting in part to reflect those costs as it seeks to meet NATO's expectations.

Italy reported to the United Nations that it spent 5.2 billion euros ($5.9 billion) on military pensions in 2023, or 18% of total military expenditure, more than it spent on aircraft and ships.

France, whose hopes for a defence build-up are limited by a huge budget deficit, only just meets the 2% target thanks to pension spending. Without that outlay, NATO's fourth-biggest military would only be at 1.7% this year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

France's 2025 defence budget includes 9.5 billion euros on pensions, far greater than the 5.7 billion euros it spends on maintaining its air and submarine-borne nuclear arsenal.

SACRED COWS

In contrast to its European allies' often bloated pension burdens, the United States, NATO's biggest military, spends the equivalent of 8.5% of its defence budget on retirement benefits.

And Washington shifts much of that cost to other parts of the government, limiting the direct impact on defence spending.

Of the $72 billion the U.S. military retirement fund paid out in benefits last year, only $24 billion came directly from the Department of Defense's budget. The rest came from investment income and a subsidy from the U.S. Treasury, according to the fund's audit report.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The White House did not respond to a request for comment.

Some European countries - Belgium, for example - appear ready to confront the pension problem directly.

Brussels is looking to gradually raise the military retirement age to 67. Belgian soldiers can currently retire with full benefits at just 56.

The Belgian defence ministry did not respond to a request for comment.

Retirement conditions and benefits vary from country to country. But earlier retirement than for civilian jobs is one of the perks of service in many militaries, and reforms seen as threatening what many consider sacred cows could prove tricky.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Emmanuel Jacob, the president of Euromil, an umbrella organisation that defends European soldiers' rights, said there was a limit to how far countries can squeeze military benefits.

"If you don't invest in men and women in the armed forces, then at the end you will have a big parking lot loaded with nice tanks, but nobody to work them," he said.

($1 = 0.8804 euros)

(Reporting by Leigh Thomas; Additional reporting by Giuseppe Fonte in Rome, Editing by Gabriel Stargardter and Joe Bavier)
May 6Angus King III, a businessman, renewable energy entrepreneur and the son of U.S. Sen. Angus King Jr., announced Tuesday that he is running for governor of Maine.

King, a Portland Democrat, joins what is likely to be a crowded field of candidates seeking to replace Democratic Gov. Janet Mills, who will be prevented from running in 2026 because of term limits.

Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, a fellow Democrat, has also announced a campaign for governor, and former Maine Senate President Troy Jackson, also a Democrat, announced in March that he was forming a committee to explore a run .

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In all, seven candidates have so far filed campaign finance paperwork with the state for the governor's race.

"I think people have been struggling in Maine recently," King said in an interview. "A lot of them are scared and worried and I think we've got a pile of challenges ahead of us that are making life really difficult for a lot of Maine people.

"I have spent my career building things that help people and solve problems. ... I'm running for governor now to build a better Maine, so that our families can afford to live here and our kids can afford to stay."

King is the founder and former president of Peaks Renewables, a renewable energy development company that recently spearheaded a project to develop an anaerobic digester to produce natural gas from cow manure in the town of Clinton.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He previously worked at the wind energy company First Wind and as a project developer and partner at the Wishcamper Group, where he was involved in affordable housing development.

"My focus has really been on building things that solve problems and help people, whether it's affordable housing where we preserve affordability for people and give them a place to live, or a solar and wind company. ... It's always been about building and solving problems," King said.

King, 54, has not held elected office before but said a perspective from outside state government could be useful in the governor's office. "I think that's really what we need to help small businesses and families grow and get ahead," he said.

If elected, King said his priorities would include lowering the cost of living for working families, solving the housing shortage, and supporting small businesses and helping them grow their work force.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I'm going to focus on how do we bring costs down, how do we build more housing and how do we build an economy that makes it easier for small businesses to grow and thrive," he said.

King's father is an independent who was governor from 1995 to 2003 and who has served as Maine's junior U.S. senator since 2013.

Sen. Angus King described his son as "hard-working, smart, engaged, and caring" in a written statement.

"He's a builder and an optimist who knows Maine and doesn't quit until the job is done," Sen. King said. "He's been building things to take care of people and make the world a better place throughout his life, and I think his combination of smarts, experience, and character will make him an excellent governor of Maine."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The other candidates who have filed campaign finance paperwork for the race include Bellows and fellow Democrat Kenneth Pinet. The Republicans include Bobby Charles, who served as assistant secretary of state under Colin Powell; Steven Sheppard and Robert Wessels. There is also one unenrolled candidate, Alexander Murchison.

Other Democratic contenders whose names have been floated as potential candidates include U.S. Rep. Jared Golden, D-2nd District, and Hannah Pingree, the director of the Governor's Office of Policy Innovation and the Future, a former Maine House speaker and the daughter of U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree.

Speculation about possible Republican candidates has included former U.S. Rep. Bruce Poliquin, Senate Minority Leader Trey Stewart, state Rep. Laurel Libby, and Jonathan Bush, a cousin of George W. Bush who lives in Cape Elizabeth.

State Sen. Rick Bennett and former Senate Majority Leader Garrett Mason, now a lobbyist, have also been mentioned as possible candidates.

Signatures to qualify for the ballot are due to the Maine Department of the Secretary of State by March 16, 2026, and primary elections are scheduled for June 9, 2026.

Copy the Story Link
A former Department of Homeland Security (DHS) official who criticized President Trump in his first term said in a new interview that he thinks he was right to be concerned that the president would seek revenge upon his return to office.

My concern was he would turn the government into a revenge machine, and thats whats happening, Miles Taylor, former deputy chief of staff at DHS during the first Trump administration, said in an interview with NBC News.

Last month, Trump signed a memorandum directing the Department of Justice to investigate Taylor, who wrote a New York Times op-ed and later a book under the pseudonym Anonymous about how some officials were working to thwart Trumps impulses during his first term.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

White House staff secretary Will Scharf said at the time that the memo would strip any active security clearance for Taylor and would direct the Justice Department to investigate his activities to see what else might come up in that context given his egregious behavior during your previous administration.

Taylor told NBC News he thinks hes being targeted for exercising his First Amendment right to free expression.

I know Ive never broken the law. I know that Ive assiduously upheld my national security obligations, he said. Whats really important for people to know is you dont need a permission slip in the United States to criticize the president.

Taylor said he knows of instances of government officials contacting former high school classmates and other associates, saying to NBC News, I have seen indications that they are out there, rummaging through my past, talking to people as far back as high school and trying to comb through my life.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He described how the memo has turned his life upside down, compelling his family to take additional security precautions and to cut back on his work.

He has said he has not considered trying to strike a settlement discretely with the administration, as some others have, stressing he has committed no crime.

That is insidious; that is un-American. You cant threaten Americans to not exercise their First Amendment rights because theyre fearful the president of the United States will prosecute them, he told NBC 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 The Hill.
German domestic intelligence on Wednesday declared another regional branch of the anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD) party as a confirmed right-wing extremist organization, just days after slapping the label on the national party.

According to the interior minister of Brandenburg, an eastern state that surrounds Berlin, state intelligence already upgraded the assessment of the AfD Brandenburg branch from suspected to confirmed right-wing extremist on April 14.

But Katrin Lange said she had only been notified of the change on Monday, criticizing the delay. She dismissed the head of the regional intelligence service, Jorg Muller, on Tuesday, telling the committee for interior affairs in the state parliament, the he was let go due to a lack of trust for not informing her - and the public - of the changed assessment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last week, Germany's national domestic intelligence agency designated the AfD, the biggest opposition party in parliament, as a confirmed "right-wing extremist" organization that "disregards human dignity" and threatens democracy.

The new classification, which gives the agency broader surveillance power over the AfD, is the result of a comprehensive review, the findings of which are laid out in a 1,100-page internal report.

It came just days before Germany's new conservative-led government took office under Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Tuesday.

The agency, called the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV), said there was concrete evidence that the party pursues efforts that threaten Germany's democratic order, pointing to its anti-immigrant rhetoric.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Specifically, it said the far-right AfD considers German citizens with roots in predominantly Muslim countries to be unequal citizens.

The Brandenburg AfD is the fourth regional branch to be classified as a confirmed right-wing extremist group, following the state organizations in Thuringia, Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt, all fellow former East German states, where the AfD has seen the most support.
May 7 (UPI) -- Another federal judge has ruled against President Donald Trump's use of a wartime authority to deport Venezuelan migrants, saying his administration has failed to properly interpret the Alien Enemies Act or establish standing for its invocation.

U.S. District Judge Alvin Hellerstein issued a ruling Tuesday that prevents the Trump administration from using the AEA to deport migrants from his jurisdiction in the Southern District of New York.

The ruling comes in a case brought by two plaintiffs identified by the initials GFF and JGO, who were detained in Orange County Jail before being transferred to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility in Texas on March 25. They were to be deported to El Salvador but were pulled off the plane following a temporary restraining order issued against their removal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The pair have been returned to Orange County Jail as the Trump administration fights in court to remove them.

The AEA is a 1798 wartime authority the president can invoke under threat of invasion or predatory incursion to detain or deport immigrants based on their nationality. It has been used three times during the War of 1812, World War I and World War II, with the last instance resulting in Japanese residents being held in internment camps.

Trump invoked the AEA in mid-March under the claim that the United States was under invasion by Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan gang. He used the wartime authority to deport more than 200 people to El Salvador where the United States pays for them to be indefinitely jailed in the infamous Terrorism Confinement Center -- until a court order halted the deportations.

In his Tuesday ruling, Hellerstein, a President Bill Clinton appointee, chastised the Trump administration for its use of the AEA, stating that the presidential proclamation contradicts the act, which dictates that those deported under it be given due process.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Conveniently, Respondents fail to mention another section of the AEA that imposes a 'duty' on the federal courts to give a 'full examination and hearing' to the Executive's 'complaint' against the alien, and to order the alien's removal only upon 'sufficient cause appearing,'" he said, quoting the act, adding that under it "removal may not occur except after notice and hearing."

After quoting several different definitions for "invasion" and "incursion," Hellerstein also stated that Trump's claims in support of the idea that TdA has committed invasion or predatory incursion of the United States "do not exist."

"There is nothing in the AEA that justifies a finding that refugees migrating from Venezuela, or TdA gangsters who infiltrate the migrants, are engaged in an 'invasion' or 'predatory incursion,'" Hellerstein wrote. "They do not seek to occupy territory, to oust American jurisdiction from any territory or to ravage territory. TdA may well be engaged in narcotics trafficking, but that is a criminal matter, not an invasion or predatory incursion."

The ruling is the lasted setback of the Trump administration's use of the AEA.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last week, a Trump-appointed judge in Texas ruled the White House was illegally using the AEA to deport migrants.

Last month, the Supreme Court paused deportations of Venezuelan migrants held in Texas under the AEA.
An electron microscope image of a measles virus particle. (Cynthia Goldsmith / Centers for Disease Control and Prevention via AP)

Los Angeles County reported another measles case involving a resident or traveler this week, prompting officials to renew their call for all residents to make sure they are up to date on their vaccinations.

The latest case  the fourth so far this year  involves a visitor who recently arrived in L.A. County from another country, according to the county Department of Public Health.

The measles patient was not infectious while traveling, health officials said, but some people may have been exposed to the virus in healthcare facilities. Officials did not identify the specific sites but said the healthcare facilities are directly contacting potentially exposed patients and employees.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases, and it can spread easily on surfaces and in the air  remaining infectious for hours, even after a sickened person has left the room.

Read more: The U.S. is approaching a dangerous measles precipice, scientists say

Symptoms of measles include a high fever above 101 degrees, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes and a rash, which usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.

"As L.A. County residents begin to travel this summer, and with measles cases increasing among those who have recently traveled, we remind everyone that the best way to protect yourself and your family from infection is with the highly effective measles vaccine," Dr. Muntu Davis, the county health officer, said in a statement Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Health officials generally recommend babies get their first measles vaccination when they're 12 to 15 months old, followed by a second dose between 4 and 6 years old.

But infants as young as 6 months old should get a measles vaccine before traveling internationally, and then should get two more doses after their first birthday, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Read more: Measles confirmed in L.A. County resident who recently returned from Texas

Having two doses of the measles vaccine is 97% effective against infection, health officials say.

Measles vaccination is required as a condition of entry for schools in California and, at age 1, at child-care centers  though children can receive a medical exemption. State law allows parents to skip immunizations for children who are enrolled in independent study programs and do not receive classroom-based instruction.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: Independent study charter schools are a soft spot in California's vaccine laws, data show

Before a vaccine for measles became available in 1963, the disease resulted in an estimated 400 to 500 deaths a year, as well as 48,000 hospitalizations  with 1,000 people suffering brain swelling, the CDC says.

Two L.A. County residents have tested positive for measles this year  one who had recently returned from Texas, which is in the midst of a deadly measles outbreak, and another who had flown back from Taiwan. A non-L.A. County resident also tested positive after arriving on a flight from South Korea.

The U.S. is in the midst of one of its worst years for measles in the last generation, with 935 cases already reported nationally this year, CDC data show. About 38% of patients are age 5 through 19, and 30% are age 4 and younger.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: Measles at LAX: L.A. County resident had highly contagious disease when arriving at airport

Of those with confirmed measles infection, 96% either are unvaccinated or have an unknown vaccination status, according to the CDC.

The latest measles case count is already the second-highest in 25 years, eclipsed only by the 1,274 cases reported in all of 2019.

Three confirmed measles deaths have been reported  two among unvaccinated school-age children in Texas who had no underlying medical conditions, and one in an unvaccinated adult in New Mexico, according to the CDC's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

L.A. County officials suggest residents contact their healthcare provider as soon as possible about a possible measles exposure if they are pregnant or have a weakened immune system  regardless of their immunization history. Healthcare providers should also be contacted if the exposed person is an infant or is unvaccinated.

Read more: Measles exposure reported at LAX, Orange County children's hospital. Who is at risk?

"If symptoms develop, stay at home, and avoid school, work and any large gatherings," the county said in a statement. "Do not enter a healthcare facility before calling them and making them aware of your measles exposure and symptoms."

People can spread measles to others from four days before the diseases telltale rash appears through four days afterward, according to the CDC. People who have not been immunized against measles, either through vaccination or prior infection, are at risk of getting sick between seven and 21 days after exposure.

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.
For the second time in eight days, a fighter jet has gone overboard the USS Harry S. Truman, plummeting into the Red Sea

"Both aviators safely ejected and were rescued by the search and rescue helicopter," a defense official tells PEOPLE of the most recent incident on Tuesday, May 6

The same day, the Houthis, a rebel group based in Yemen, "took a shot" at the aircraft carrier, according to a report

A fighter jet failed to land on the USS Harry S. Truman  the second time in eight days that a multi-million dollar Super Hornet has gone overboard the aircraft carrier into the Red Sea.

The F/A-18F Super Hornet was in the process of landing on the flight deck when the arrestment failed and the aircraft went overboard on Tuesday, May 6, a defense official confirms with PEOPLE.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Both aviators safely ejected and were rescued by the search and rescue helicopter attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 11, the official adds. The aviators were evaluated by medical personnel and assessed to have minor injuries. No flight deck personnel were injured.

Related: Donald Trump Asks Boeing to Design a New Military Jet. He's Naming It After Himself

Gerard Bottino/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty The aircraft carrier was deployed to the Red Sea last September The aircraft carrier was deployed to the Red Sea last September

An official told NBC News that the tail hook did not successfully catch the wire meant to slow the fighter jet down, resulting in the aircraft plummeting into the water. The investigation is ongoing.

The accident came just over a week after another fighter jet plunged into the Red Sea on Monday, April 28. A F/A-18E was being towed in the aircraft carriers hangar bay when the crew lost control of the fighter jet, which caused the aircraft and tow tractor to go overboard, according to the U.S. Navy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sailors towing the aircraft took immediate action to move clear of the aircraft before it fell overboard, the Navy said. One sailor sustained a minor injury, and an investigation is ongoing. The Super Hornet was worth $67 million, NBC News reported.

Related: Video Shows Navy Fighter Jet Crashing Nose-First into San Diego Harbor After Pilots Had to Eject

The same day that the second jet went overboard, the Houthis took a shot at the Truman, sources told CNN.

The incident occurred just hours after President Donald Trump said the U.S. would stop the bombings against the rebel group in an apparent ceasefire, the outlet reported.

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 incidents are among multiple missteps involving the Truman since it was deployed last September.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The ship has helped ensure the Navy was better equipped to battle the Iran-backed militant group that began attacking international shipping in late 2023, according to The Washington Post.

Read the original article on People
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A U.S. F-18 fighter jet was lost in the Red Sea on Tuesday after tipping off the flight deck of the Harry S Truman aircraft carrier, in the second such incident in about a week, two U.S. officials said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The officials said the fighter jet failed to come to a proper halt after landing on the carrier. Both members of the crew ejected before the jet plunged into the water and were recovered by a rescue helicopter, one of the officials said.

The Navy did not have an immediate response.One of the officials said medical evaluations showed the aviators had minor injuries and that no flight deck personnel were injured.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The incident was first reported by CNN.

Last week, another fighter jet fell overboard from the Truman, which has been aiding U.S. strikes against Yemen's Houthi fighters.

U.S. fighter aircraft cost $60 million or more, and such incidents are rare. The fact that two occurred in such a short time is likely to raise scrutiny of the carrier's operations.

(Reporting by Phil Stewart and Idrees Ali: Editing by Neil Fullick)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. We condemn the military attacks on the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Azerbaijani MFA said in a statement in connection with the growing tensions between India and Pakistan, Trend reports.

"We condemn the military attacks on the Islamic Republic of Pakistan that have killed and injured several civilians. In solidarity with the people of Pakistan, we extend our condolences to the families of the innocent victims and wish a speedy recovery to the injured."

We call on all parties to show restraint and resolve the conflict through diplomatic means, the statement says.
The nations most influential anti-abortion groups have a new plan to roll back access to the procedure for millions of Americans in what theyre calling the biggest opportunity for the pro-life movement since toppling Roe v. Wade.

The effort, which the groups have privately named Rolling Thunder, is the movements first concerted attempt under the second Trump administration to target abortion pills, and aims to convince the FDA, Congress and courts to crack down on their use.

While the Trump administration paid little attention to the medication in its first months in office, and even filed a court brief to preserve access , the activists are counting on a report from the conservative think tank Ethics and Public Policy Center to light a fire under those in power.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The paper, published last week, purports to show significantly more patients have experienced serious side effects after taking mifepristone than previously known. Medical experts and abortion-right supporters say it exaggerates the danger of a medication that more than 100 scientific studies have found are safe and effective.

The reports release comes on the heels of top Trump officials  including Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA chief Marty Makary  expressing openness to new data on the pills' safety and efficacy.

One of the things that we have the ability to do now with this data is to pressure the FDA and lawmakers to reconsider, if not suspend, their approval of this medication until they can do more research into it, Maria Baer, a podcast host for the Colson Center for Christian Worldview, said on a private Zoom call last week where anti-abortion leaders discussed the strategy. The groups on the call included Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, Americans United for Life, the Ethics and Public Policy Center, Students for Life and Live Action.

Mifepristone, one of two drugs used in roughly two-thirds of all abortions in the U.S., is a longtime target of conservative activists who consider it the primary driver of the increase in abortions since Roes fall in 2022 and the method millions of women are using to circumvent state bans.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The groups also hope to wield the report to pressure Congress to strip the remaining federal funding from Planned Parenthood  which they consider the countrys best-known purveyor of the drugs  and give conservative legal groups fodder to prosecute doctors who prescribe the pills to patients who live in states with abortion bans.

Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley told POLITICO he plans to introduce legislation  inspired by the groups report  that would restrict access to the pills and make it easier for patients who have taken them to sue the manufacturers, Danco and GenBioPro. He is also joining the groups pressure campaign on the FDA.

Dr. Makary is in no doubt about my position on this, Hawley said, adding that hes frustrated the agency has not yet acted to prohibit mail delivery of the pills. This was much the topic of conversation during his [confirmation] hearings, and I have to say, his position now doesn't sound a lot to me like the ones he took during hearings. During the hearings, he said, I'm going to review all the data. I have an open mind. And then he promptly turned around and said, Oh no, I'm definitely not going to do anything.



An FDA spokesperson said in a statement that the agency "rigorously evaluates the latest scientific data, leveraging gold standard science to make informed decisions," and balances a "science-based approach" with "practical, common-sense considerations." Responding to Hawley's accusation, the spokesperson also pointed to recent remarks by Makary saying he wouldn't rule out changes to mifepristone regulations "if the data suggests something or tells us that theres a real signal."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The anti-abortion coalition is lobbying senior officials at FDA and HHS and on Capitol Hill, circulating petitions calling on the administration to put restrictions on the pills, and drafting a letter for lawmakers to sign demanding the agency take action.

Ryan Anderson, the president of the Ethics and Public Policy Center, demurred when asked whether he has secured meetings with agency officials, telling POLITICO he obviously can't share information about our confidential conversations and noting that it's only been a week since the reports publication. But his allies on the Zoom call suggested they have conveyed the information to those in power.

Right away it is very clear that the release of this data  has gotten attention at the highest levels in the administration and on Capitol Hill, said Marjorie Dannenfelser, the president of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America.

Planned Parenthood and other abortion-rights supporters are slamming the report as junk science as they mount their own pressure campaign to save their funding  highlighting that the paper was released directly by the conservative think tank and not published in a medical journal where it would have been vetted by outside experts in the peer review process. Activists on the Zoom call pushed back on those criticisms, arguing that academia is broken and they couldnt trust the peer reviewers not to leak or sabotage their effort.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dr. Christina Francis, the CEO of the American Association of Pro-Life OBGYNs and member of the coalition of conservative doctors that challenged the 25-year-old FDA approval of the pills , also warned the groups not to misrepresent the paper, noting that is is not a study in the traditional sense and not conclusive proof of anything. Still, she and others argued its valid evidence that merits further research and immediate government action.

Providing women with the truth about the harms of chemical abortion, and encouraging the Trump FDA to bring doctors back into the equation and reinstate the original [President Bill] Clinton FDA safety provisions, will save lives and it will help protect women, Anderson said in a statement.

The anti-abortion activists stressed on their Zoom call that while they are publicly calling for the restoration of previous federal restrictions on the drugs  including bans on online prescriptions and mail delivery of the pills and cutting off their use after seven weeks of pregnancy instead of the current 10  they view that as only a first step. If they achieve that, they plan to keep fighting for the drug to be removed from the market entirely.

Anderson presented three core talking points the groups will use to push Congress and the Trump administration in that direction.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

First, that its not possible to fulfill Kennedys pledge to Make America Healthy Again without cutting off access to the pills. Second, that Trump pledged to  reverse damaging policies  enacted by the Biden administration, and that should include FDA rules easing access to the drugs. And third, while President Donald Trump promised on the campaign trail to leave regulation of abortion to states, Youre not leaving it to states if California can mail pills to Texas.

The groups believe the administration will be receptive to their push based on recent remarks by Kennedy and Makary leaving the door open to changing how mifepristone is regulated. Makary said in a speech last week that while he has no plans at the moment to roll back access to the drug, that could change.

I believe as a scientist, that youve got to evolve as the data comes in, he said. So if the data suggests something or tells us that there's a real signal, then I  we can't promise we're not going to act on that.

And Kennedy said in his January confirmation hearing and again in a February interview that Trump has asked him to study the drugs safety.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kennedy has said he wants to dig into this question of harms to women, and you provided him this data, Dannenfelser said on the Zoom call. She then previewed how she plans to address the health secretary directly. Now you've got great data, HHS director. You've got data, administration, that you can dig into, and you can go ahead and also do your own studies.

Baer, who advises the coalition on messaging, said they will also work to change public perception of the pills with a series of online and in-person events around the country, kicking off with a May 14 webinar.

We need to help to create a better, more accurate sense of this medication culturally, which is that it is not something to be taken lightly, she said. It shouldn't be prescribed lightly, and it shouldn't be thought of as an easy or uncomplicated fix to a crisis.

Americans United for Life CEO John Mize added that another piece of the Rolling Thunder plan is to use the report on mifepristone to sue doctors in states with shield laws who prescribe the pills across state lines. Theyre partnering with the group Center for Client Safety, which describes its mission as, Shutting down abortion facilities to protect women and save preborn lives. Their theory is that they can bring False Claims Act cases against the doctors for telling patients that the drugs are safe.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Brittni Frederiksen, the associate director for Womens Health Policy at the nonpartisan health care think tank KFF, is among those skeptical of the groups findings. She highlighted, for instance, that the report lists ectopic pregnancies  when an embryo implants outside the uterus  as an adverse event from the pills when the pills do not cause ectopic pregnancies. Rather, according to the FDA , ectopic pregnancies are a contraindication, meaning patients are told not to take the pills in that instance because they will not work. Also, a large percentage of the harms listed in the EPPC report are patients who needed a follow-up surgical abortion because the pills did not end their pregnancies  which she and other experts argue is a known potential outcome disclosed on the medications label and not an adverse event.

There's just so many things wrong with it and so many red flags, said Frederiksen. I can't imagine any medical journal that would accept this.

Groups that support abortion rights are working to counter the Rolling Thunder campaign, defend mifepristone as safe and effective and lobby Congress to maintain federal funding for Planned Parenthood and other reproductive health providers.

Progressive advocates, granted anonymity to share deliberations that have not been made public, are pleased the groups report has gotten little coverage outside of conservative media and that few GOP lawmakers besides Hawley have promoted it. Still, they are considering writing to the FDA urging the agency to maintain access to the pills. That way, they reason, they can have firmer ground to sue the agency if the Trump administration does impose restrictions on the drugs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Planned Parenthoods advocacy arm is also mobilizing to save the hundreds of millions of federal funding it receives each year. The group held more than 100 events in key congressional districts around the country  focusing on the Carolinas, Iowa and Pennsylvania  during Congress recesses in March and April. They have also bought ads in Colorado, Iowa and New Jersey arguing that defunding the group would negatively impact patients, and are flying some of those patients to Washington, D.C., in the coming weeks to lobby Congress.

Its awfully convenient that a few days after Marty Makary says that he had no plans to restrict mifepristone, but that he'd be open to considering new science, some new trash science just happens to land in his lab, said Angela Vasquez-Giroux, vice president of communications of Planned Parenthood Action Fund. We will continue to do what we've always done, which is make sure that as many people as we can reach understand the difference between what they put out and real science.

Sophie Gardner contributed to this report.
Antibiotics are widely considered one of the most important advances in the history of medicine. Their introduction into clinical practice during the 1940s marked a major milestone in the control of infectious diseases, and these medicines have since improved human health and prolonged life expectancy.

Today, bacterial resistance to antibiotics has become a global threat, and presents a major challenge to medicine. Antibiotics extensive and often indiscriminate use in medicine, veterinary clinics and agriculture has created the ideal conditions for antibiotic-resistant bacteria to emerge.

However, this phenomenon is older than previously thought. Bacteria already had resistance mechanisms long before the discovery and introduction of antibiotics into clinical practice. This indicates that antibiotic resistance is a much more complex, widespread and deep-rooted ancestral evolutionary phenomenon than initially assumed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Studies have documented antibiotic resistance mechanisms in micro-organisms isolated from natural habitats, where human influence is minimal or non-existent. These environments include deep underground layers and the ocean floor, as well as ancient environments such as isolated caves and permafrost.

Interestingly, many of the resistance mechanisms described in these untouched environments  whose origins date back thousands or even millions of years  are similar or even identical to those observed in present-day pathogenic bacteria. This suggests that the conservation and transmission of resistance mechanisms throughout evolution provides a selective advantage.

Surviving in the ice

The resistance genes found in permafrost samples from 30,000 years ago bear a striking resemblance to those found today. These strains were as resistant as more modern ones that have been observed to resist -lactam antibiotics, tetracyclines and vancomycin.

Staphylococcus strains resistant to aminoglycosides and -lactams have also been isolated from 3.5 million year old permafrost samples.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There are even older examples, such as Lechuguilla Cave in New Mexico, USA, an environment considered isolated for 4 million years. Nevertheless, a 2016 study found Streptomyces and Paenibacillus bacteria in Lecheguilla that were resistant to most of the antibiotics used in clinical practice today.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is the full name for a multidrug-resistant bacterium that causes serious infections. A 2022 study concluded that certain strains were resistant long before the use of this group of antibiotics  it was their adaptation to hedgehogs infected by similar antibiotic-producing fungi that gave them a survival advantage.

An arms race to survive

Research has revealed that competition for resources and adaptation to different habitats were key factors in the evolution of antibiotic resistance.

In pre-drug environments, natural antibiotics not only played an ecological role in inhibiting the growth of competitors, but also supported the survival of producer species. In addition, very small amounts of antibiotics acted as communication molecules, influencing the interactions and balance of microbial communities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This dynamic environment favoured the evolution of defensive strategies in antibiotic-exposed micro-organisms, whether antibiotic-producing or co-existing. This, in turn, drove the diversification and spread of resistance mechanisms over time.

However, the presence of these mechanisms in isolated, pre-antibiotic-era environments raises questions about how resistance has originated and spread throughout microbial evolution. The study of these processes is key to understanding their impact on the current antibiotic resistance crisis.

Looking forwards by looking backwards

It is now suggested that antibiotic resistance genes may have been transmitted first from environmental micro-organisms to human commensal organisms, and then to pathogens. This process of transfer from the environment to the human environment is random: the more prevalent a resistance mechanism is in the environment, the more likely it is to be transferred.

Reservoirs of resistance in the environment can accelerate bacterial evolution towards multiple drug resistance under antibiotic pressure. It is therefore crucial to consider the vast diversity of these resistance genes within microbial populations when developing or implementing new strategies to combat antibiotic resistance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As Winston Churchill said, the longer you can look back, the further you can look forward. This reflection underlines the importance of studying the past in order to understand and anticipate future risks. Researching ancestral resistance not only provides information on the evolutionary history of resistance genes, it can also help us predict how they will evolve in the future.

This knowledge allows us to anticipate potential resistance mechanisms, which improves our ability to meet future challenges in the fight against antibiotic resistance.

Este articulo fue publicado originalmente en The Conversation, un sitio de noticias sin fines de lucro dedicado a compartir ideas de expertos academicos.

Lee mas:



Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

M. Paloma Reche Sainz receives funding from the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation through the National Plan PID2023-150116OB-I00, where she forms part of the research team.

Ruben Agudo Torres receives funding from the Ministry of Science and Innovation. He has previously received funding from the Spanish Ministry of Economy, Industry and Competitiveness, and the European Commission's Horizon 2020 programme.

Sergio Rius Rocabert reveices funding from the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation through the National Plan PID2023-150116OB-I00, where he forms part of the research team.
REIMS, France (AP)  When Allied forces brought World War II in Europe and the Holocaust to an end 80 years ago this week, AP reporters and photographers were there, chronicling the Nazis historic defeat.

Here are excerpts of AP news reports that momentous week:

___

EDITORS' NOTE: On May 7, 1945, AP's Edward Kennedy witnessed the German surrender in a French schoolhouse, and was the first to announce it to the Allied public, defying authorities who wanted to delay the news.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The news was broadcast unofficially over German radio, but U.S. President Harry Truman and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill had agreed to suppress news of the capitulation for a day, in order to allow Soviet leader Josef Stalin to stage a second surrender ceremony in Berlin.

Kennedy published anyway, angering U.S. authorities. Kennedy was called home by AP and later fired. AP issued a public apology in 2012, saying Kennedy did everything just right, because the embargo was for political reasons, not to protect the troops. The world needed to know, APs then-President and CEO Tom Curley said. Kennedy stood up to power.

___

REIMS, France, May 7 (Delayed)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

FLASH: ALLIES OFFICIALLY ANNOUNCED GERMANS SURRENDERED UNCONDITIONALLY

___

Through an iron-faced Prussian general, speaking after he had finished signing the unconditional surrender of the Nazis, Germany today pleaded for mercy for the German people. On the wall behind his back was a huge chart tabulating Allied casualties.

He was Col-Gen. (Alfred) Jodl, chief of staff of the German Army.

He was standing in a room of a red school house in Reims, where Gen. Eisenhower had his advanced headquarters. On a big wooden table in front of him lay four identical documents to which he had just affixed his signature  one each for the United States, Britain, France and Russia. ...

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Seventeen correspondents were present at the signing and heard Jodls plea. After he had signed the four instruments of surrender, and after the military representatives of the four Powers had signed them, Jodl asked for permission to speak. He was told that he might.

He held himself stiffly erect. His voice was low and soft. He said: With this signature, the German people and armed forces are, for better or worse, delivered in the victors hands. In this war which has lasted more than five years, both have achieved and suffered more than perhaps any other people in the world. I express the hope that the victor will treat generously with them.

His face was expressionless. So were the faces of the American, British, Russian and French generals who represented the Allies. All had seen the German murder camps and all knew the furious cruelty of German occupying forces.

Jodl finished speaking and sat down. A moment passed in dead silence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Then the German representatives were taken down the hall to meet Gen. Eisenhower. ....

Again, there was a moment of heavy silence.

Then Eisenhower spoke. He was brief and terse as always. His voice was cold and stern. His steel blue eyes were hard. In a few clipped sentences, he made it plain that Germany was a defeated nation and that henceforth all orders to the German people would come from the Allies. He said they would be obeyed.

Then the Germans filed out. It was over.

Nazi Germany has ceased to exist.

The war had ended.

___

The great bells of St. Peters Basilica rang out over Rome soon after the Associated Press report that peace had come to Europe, while several Allied capitals proclaimed V-E holidays for today, and Tokyo announced continuation of The Sacred War.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Many of the worlds cities went wild at the news, and even neutral capitals were bedecked and filled with celebrating crowds. Masses of people gathered in front of loudspeakers and newspaper offices, which were frantically answering inquiries and rolling out extras.

Only in the unnatural calm of the European fronts was the news reported to have been taken soberly, by soldiers who had seen the fighting taper off in one sector after another for the past two weeks.

___

War-scarred London burst into jubilant celebration of the end of the war in Europe today, its millions of citizens unable to wait for the governments official V-E Day proclamation tomorrow.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Millions surged into the streets, from Buckingham Palace to the sedate East End.

The Picadilly Circus, Whitehall and Westminster areas filled with a laughing, shouting throng. Some old-timers said the scene eclipsed those of the 1918 armistice.

Pubs were jammed, Champagne was brought up from deep cellars and long-hoarded whisky and gin came out from hiding.

The great bells of Big Ben tolled the hours of the historic day.

___

In Washington, crowds gathered in Lafayette Square across Pennsylvania Avenue from the White House in anticipation of an announcement by President Truman to proclaim Allied V-E Day.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A dispatch from the United States 9th Army front said withdrawal of American troops toward a previously established line of demarcation between them and the Russians had begun, with the first-move evacuation of the Yanks from their bridgehead of the banks of the Elbe River. The Elbe became the temporary line between the Allied armies.

___

BERLIN, May 10, 1945:

By HAROLD KING, former Moscow bureau chief

This town is a city of the dead. As a metropolis, it has simply ceased to exist. Every house within miles of the center seems to have had its own bomb. 

The scene beggars description. I have seen Stalingrad; I have lived through the entire London blitz. I have seen a dozen badly damaged Russian towns, but the scene of utter destruction, desolation and death which meets the eye in Berlin as far as the eye can rove in all directions is something that almost baffles description.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dozens of well-known thoroughfares, including the entire Unter den Linden from one end to the other, are wrecked beyond repair. The town is literally unrecognizable. The Alexander Platz, in the east end, where the Gestapo headquarters were, is a weird desert of rubble and gaping, smoke blackened walls. From the Brandenberg Gate, everything within a radius of two to five miles is destroyed. There does not appear to be one house in hundred which is even useful as a shelter. ...

The only people who look like human beings in the streets of what was Berlin are the Russian soldiers. There are two million inhabitants in this town, the Russian authorities told me, but they are mostly in the remoter suburbs. In the center part of the town, you only see a few ghostlike figures of women and children  few men  queuing up to pump water.

If Stalingrad, London, Guernica, Rotterdam, Coventry wanted avenging, they have had it, and no mistake about it.

The Red flag, or rather several red flags, fly on top of the Reichstag which is burned hollow. The Tiergarten opposite the Reichstag looks like a forest after a big fire. There was heavy street fighting here. ...

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The population and the Red Army soldiers are attempting to clear some of the main streets.

The Russian command has already erected at all main squares and crossings huge sketch maps without which it would be impossible to find ones way about.

Except for an occasional Russian army car or horses drawing Russian army carts, there is a complete silence over the city, and the air filled with rubble dust.

One sign of life, however, are the interminable columns of displaced persons of all European nationalities who seem to be marching through Berlin in various directions, carried forward by a homing instinct more than any clear idea where they are going. These columns of freed slaves are sometimes a mile long.

___

Follow APs coverage marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II at https://apnews.com/WorldWarII
PARIS (AP)  They were bitter enemies, seemingly destined to be perpetually at odds after fighting two devastating world wars less than 30 years apart.

But in the decades since French forces were among the victors of World War II, which ended in Europe with Nazi Germany's surrender 80 years ago, neighbors France and Germany have built a powerful partnership that underpins the European Union.

With the EU's largest economies, they're frequently described as the motors of the 27-nation bloc and its stated goal of an ever closer union among the peoples of Europe after generations of conflict.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Statesmen and women and ordinary people alike have worked since WWII to weave deep personal, political, economic, cultural and military bonds upon which French-German friendship has flowered where guns once roared.

French wartime hero President Gen. Charles de Gaulle was a pivotal early peacemaker, after fighting in both WWI and WWII.

His partner in reconciliation was Konrad Adenauer, who as West Germany's first chancellor led its recovery from the Nazi disaster. Adenauer had himself been one of Nazism's victims, spending several months in the hands of its murderous Gestapo.

The cooperation treaty they signed on Jan. 22, 1963, marked a fresh start. De Gaulle said it "turns the page after such a long and bloody history of struggle and fighting. They sealed the deal with a tight embrace.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Other leaders bound France and Germany ever closer with more deals and poignant moments of symbolism. Remembrance of war's horrors became an integral part of the partnership, so lessons from their shared history of tragic conflict arent forgotten.

Seventy years after WWI's eruption, French President Francois Mitterrand and German Chancellor Helmut Kohl held hands on the former battlefields of Verdun, facing a memorial housing the remains of 130,000 unidentified soldiers.

As friends do, France and Germany have supported each other through recent calamities, too. Chancellor Angela Merkel sped to Paris to stand with President Francois Hollande in January 2015 when France was mourning the victims of a deadly assault by extremist gunmen on satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo.

On a bridge that crosses the French-German border that once bristled with guns, words painted in the colors of the French and German flags capture how far the two neighbors have come.

BIENVENUE" and WILLKOMMEN, they read.

Their meaning: Welcome.
Israel has ordered six schools in East Jerusalem to close this week, throwing the educational future of 800 children of Palestinian refugees into turmoil.

In a visit to one of the schools  all run by the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, known as UNRWA  Associated Press reporters witnessed Israeli police throw tear gas into the schoolyard as a group of boys played outside.

Children sprinted away from the gas, coughing, drooling and covering their eyes. Some stripped off their clothes while others donned disposable masks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Israeli police said the incursion into the Shuafat refugee camp came in response to stone-throwing but denied directly targeting the school. Teachers and administrators said the firing of tear gas onto schools grounds is uncommon, but Israeli operations into the camp regularly interfere with learning.

Teacher Duaa Zourba ran to check on her students.

As teachers in Shuafat, our first job has always been to ensure the protection and the safety of our kids, she said. Whenever theres a raid, we close windows. We close doors so that they dont smell very heavy tear gas.

The goal, she said, is for the kids to always think of this school as a safe place, to remember that theres a place for them.

___

This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors.
AGUASCALIENTES, Mexico (AP)  Mexico City lawmakers recently voted to ban violent bullfighting in the countrys capital.

Animal rights advocates celebrated the decision, but for matadors, fans and cattle breeders, this long-time Spanish tradition bears a profound significance that would be shattered if bulls were not to be killed at the arena.

For Diego Silveti, a fourth-generation matador, bullfighting is a vocation, a path that he embraces despite knowing it might kill him. I am willing to lose my life if necessary, Silveti said. For my legacy, for my significance, for what God has commanded me to do.

____

This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors.
A federal appeals court made no immediate decisions Tuesday as it considered jurisdictional issues in the cases of a Turkish Tufts University student who has been detained by immigration authorities for six weeks and a Palestinian student at Columbia University who was recently released from detention.

A judicial panel of the U.S. 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals, based in New York, heard motions filed by the U.S. Justice Department regarding Rumeysa Ozturk and Mohsen Mahdawi. The department is appealing decisions made by two federal judges in Vermont.

The Justice Department says Ozturk should not be brought to Vermont from a Louisiana detention center and that Mahdawi should be detained once again. It also wants to consolidate the students cases, saying they present similar legal questions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Immigration court proceedings for Ozturk and Mahdawi are being conducted separately.

A district court judge in Vermont had ordered that Ozturk, a 30-year-old doctoral student, be brought to the state by May 1 for hearings to determine whether she was illegally detained. Ozturks lawyers say her detention violates her constitutional rights, including free speech and due process.

Shes a cherished member of the Tufts community, Esha Bhandari, one of Ozturks lawyers told reporters after the hearing. She wants to finish her PhD. Shes scheduled to teach a class this summer. She should be released. Then the legal arguments can be dealt with.

FILE- In this image taken from security camera video, Rumeysa Ozturk, a 30-year-old doctoral student at Tufts University, is detained by Department of Homeland Security agents on a street in Sommerville, Mass., Tuesday, March 25, 2025. (AP Photo)

The appeals court paused that order last week in order to consider the governments motion arguing the immigration court in Louisiana has jurisdiction over Ozturks case, not the court in Vermont.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Immigration officials surrounded Ozturk as she walked along a street in a Boston suburb March 25 and drove her to New Hampshire and Vermont before putting her on a plane to the detention center in Basile, Louisiana.

Ozturks lawyers first filed a petition on her behalf in Massachusetts, but they did not know where she was and were unable to speak to her until more than 24 hours after she was detained. A Massachusetts judge later transferred the case to Vermont.

During Tuesdays hearing, the judges questioned Justice Department lawyer Drew Ensign on why the government did not tell Ozturks lawyers where she was sooner. He cited operational security concerns.

They also questioned him over what the government said was Ozturks inability to name the immediate custodian in her plea for release, the person who has direct control and responsibility for someone who is detained. Ozturks lawyers named Patricia Hyde, Boston-based ICE enforcement and removal field office director.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ensign said it should have been the warden of the Vermont jail, even though Ozturk was in transit there at the time.

Ozturk was seized by people who are not in uniform and who were masked and hooded, Judge Susan Carney said. And to all outward appearances, they could have been private actors.

Ozturk was one of four students who wrote an op-ed in the campus newspaper, The Tufts Daily, last year criticizing the universitys response to student activists demanding that Tufts acknowledge the Palestinian genocide, disclose its investments and divest from companies with ties to Israel.

A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said in March, without providing evidence, that investigations found that Ozturk engaged in activities in support of Hamas, a U.S.-designated terrorist group.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The government is also challenging another judges decision to release Mahdawi from detention in Vermont on April 30. Mahdawi led protests at Columbia University against Israels war in Gaza. He was arrested by immigration officials during an interview about finalizing his U.S. citizenship.

The judges questioned Ensigns arguments, asking him if an adverse decision is irreparable harm to the government.

Sometimes it is, and sometimes it isnt, it depends on how right the government feels? Judge Carney asked. Ensign argued that in the immigration context, the decision was sovereign injury, hurting the governments ability to carry out removals.

Mahdawi, 34, has been a legal permanent resident for 10 years. He was in a Vermont state prison since April 14. In his release order, U.S. District Judge Geoffrey Crawford said Mahdawi has raised a substantial claim that the government arrested him to stifle speech with which it disagrees.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mahdawis release allows him to travel outside his home state of Vermont and attend graduation next month in New York. He recently completed coursework at Columbia and planned to begin a masters degree program there in the fall.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
May 7OTHELLO  The Othello Community Hospital Board will meet at 4 p.m. today to discuss candidates for an open position on the board.

The seat has been vacant since March, when board member Gayle Bohannan resigned. It is one of two seats on the hospital board that will be on the ballot in the 2025 election. Chief Executive Officer Connie Agenbroad said the person selected to fill the interim position will be in the office through December.

As of Tuesday afternoon, no one had filed for the seat.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Agenbroad said one candidate has applied to fill the interim position, but that commissioners want to open it up for any other hospital district patrons that might be interested.

Applications will be accepted for 15 days from Wednesday, Agenbroad said. People who want to apply should submit a letter of interest to the hospital, 315 N. 14th Ave. Othello hospital commission seats are at-large, according to the Adams County Auditor's Office, which means candidates can live anywhere in the hospital district.

Once the application period closes, commissioners will evaluate the applicants and appoint a replacement for Bohannan, Agenbroad said.
Photo: Press service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. On May 7, an official welcome ceremony was held for To Lam, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, who arrived in Azerbaijan for an official visit, Trend reports.

A guard of honor was arranged for the General Secretary in the square decorated with the national flags of both countries.

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva welcomed General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Socialist Republic of Vietnam To Lam and his spouse Ngo Phuong Ly.

The chief of the guard of honor reported to the General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

The national anthems of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and the Republic of Azerbaijan were played.

The guard of honor marched in front of President Ilham Aliyev and General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Socialist Republic of Vietnam To Lam to the accompaniment of a military march.

Then, both leaders posed for official photographs.

Will be updated
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.

This area shows parts of the fortress that archaeologists are uncovering in the Sinai Desert of Egypt. It was rebuilt and modified over a period of centuries. . | Credit: Photo courtesy of the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities

A large ancient Egyptian fortress in the northern Sinai Desert had an elaborate landscape of 500 trees leading to its entrance more than 2,000 years ago, new excavations reveal.

Archaeologists made the finding while uncovering more of a fortress that was rebuilt and modified over several centuries. The existence of the fortress has been known for decades. However, new finds by archaeologists from Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities shed light on what the fortress was like more than two millennia ago.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Located at the site of Tell Abu Saifi, the fortress was in use during the Ptolemaic period (circa 304 to 30 B.C.), when Ptolemy I  a general of Alexander the Great  and his descendants ruled Egypt, and the Roman period (circa 30 B.C. to A.D. 642), when Egypt was a province in the Roman Empire .

They found that during the Ptolemaic period, there were 500 planting circles surrounded with clay on both sides of a road that led to the entrance of the fortress. These would have contained trees, the ministry said in a translated statement . Its not clear what exactly the climate was like in the Sinai Desert around 2,000 years ago.

They also found that, during Ptolemaic times, the fortress was surrounded by a trench (a moat) that was more than 6.6 feet (2 meters) deep. This trench would have helped soldiers defend the fortress. The Ptolemies faced a number of adversaries at different times, including the Seleucid Empire, the Roman Republic and rebel groups operating in Egypt.

Related: Ancient Egyptians drew the Milky Way on coffins and tombs, linking them to sky goddess, study finds

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Image 1 of 2

a photo showing where trees were planted in a desert landscape

These circles held trees that led up to the entrance of the fortress.

Image 2 of 2

an aerial view of an excavated fortress

The fortress was in use for centuries and was rebuilt and renovated over time.

The planting circles are an interesting find, Elizabeth Macaulay , a classics professor at the City University of New York Graduate Center who was not involved in the excavation, told Live Science in an email.

"It is certainly possible that clay planting circles could have been used to plant trees," Macaulay said. "500 trees would have been a lot, but we have evidence from papyri and archaeology for the large-scale cultivation of plants  vines, fruits, trees  in Ptolemaic Egypt." She noted that if the excavation team uncovers the remains of roots, it would help confirm that these circles were used for planting. It might also allow for the identification of the tree species.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

RELATED STORIES

3,500-year-old 'rest house' used by ancient Egyptian army discovered in Sinai desert

3,200-year-old ancient Egyptian barracks contains sword inscribed with 'Ramesses II'

Dancing dwarf: A 2,300-year-old ancient Egyptian statue of a godlike man with a muscular 6-pack

The archaeologists made several other finds, including living quarters of soldiers and perhaps their families. In addition, they unearthed a stretch of road that was 328 feet (100 m) long, 36 feet (11 m) wide, and paved with limestone slabs. It would have been used for military units traveling to the fortress.

In an unexpected finding, archaeologists unearthed four corners of a structure that may be from an even earlier period. It's possible that this structure is also a fortress, but the team has not been able to date it or verify its purpose.

Live Science contacted the archaeologists who excavated the site but did not hear back by the time of publication.

Ancient Egypt quiz: Test your smarts about pyramids, hieroglyphs and King Tut
No one is more vested in the process of choosing the next pope than the Archdiocese of Atlanta, with Catholic schools and churches in 69 counties in north and central Georgia.

Channel 2s Karyn Greer had a chance to talk to the archbishop and auxiliary bishop about the process days before the funeral for Pope Francis.

They will be sequestered in the Sistine Chapel, and the instructions will be given to them on the manner of voting, and therell be some talks and prayer and reflection, and there will be breaks where the cardinals will be able to talk among themselves, Archbishop Gregory Hartmayer said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is being called the most diverse conclave in the history of the Catholic church.

The secretive process of choosing the next pope is set to begin today at the renowned chapel within the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

If they havent elected a pope by the fourth vote, then they will wait until the next day and do up to another four votes again. So we dont know how its going to go until it happens. But its an ancient process, Hartmayer said.

Last week, the chimney and a chimney camera were installed at the Sistine Chapel, which will signal to the world when a new pope has been chosen.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its amazing in this technological world that we still use paper to vote and white smoke or black smoke to indicate the results of the vote. Its an amazing tradition that the church maintains, Hartmayer said.

TRENDING STORIES:

The big question that many around the world are asking is, will the next pontiff reflect the world and the Catholic church?

I believe the figure is 80% of the current voting Cardinals would have been selected by Pope Francis, Bishop Joel Konzen said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pope Francis appointed cardinals from all over the world, but particularly from places that had been unrepresented or not represented at all at the Papal Conclaves.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
STUTTGART, Ark.  Crews with the Arkansas Department of Transportation are currently inspecting a highway bridge near Stuttgart on Wednesday.

A post from ARDOT shows crews inspecting a large, cracked section of concrete below the Highway 165 bridge.

ARDOT officials said the damage is believed to be cosmetic only and added that the bridge is safe to use.

Courtesy of Arkansas Department of Transportation

Officials with ARDOT said there are currently no plans to close the bridge at this time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For updates on any possible closures, ARDOT officials recommend checking iDriveArkansas.com.

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 KARK.
As the College of Cardinals gathered in the Sistine Chapel to choose a new pope, priests from the Archdiocese of Boston gathered in Andover for a long-planned convocation.

To be sure, the secretive, mysterious Vatican City conclave was on many minds.

Were excited, were ready, were interested, said Reverend Paul Sopor, Director of Clergy Personnel for the Archdiocese. Everybody on Twitter is asking who it might be. Probably somebody we never heard of. Who heard of Jorge Mario Bergoglio before he became Pope Francis?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pope Francis dies: Black smoke comes from Sistine Chapel chimney, no pope elected

For Sopor, the person who succeeds Pope Francis may be less important than the policies he espouses. To say the least, Sopor and others who spoke with Boston 25 News, hold Pope Francis in very high regard.

I think that our new pope is going to have to both continue the work of Pope Francis and try to enhance that work of making it possible to have a sense of unity across boundaries, said Sopor. I think that one of the principal challenges that the new pope will have is that we live in a world thats increasingly fractured. Its very difficult, even, for people to sit down and have conversations with each other sometimes.

Ironically, Pope Francis, known for making sometimes provocative statements and taking aggressive stands on world issues, divided Catholics on the issue of defining papal tradition. Sopor saw him as transformative.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

God bless him, he was such a good man, he said. He did so many good things for the Catholic church throughout the whole globe. He had such a global vision of who should be part of the church.

Reverend Nathaniel Sanders is a chaplin at Harvard University. When Pope Francis was elected, Sanders was in college. He, too, holds the late pope in high regard  but is also excited to learn of his successor.

I was ordained under him, so I have a great deal of affection for our deceased Holy Father, he said. He was certainly a unique figure in the history of the church. The number of initiatives that he started were, in a way, unlike anything we had seen  certainly in the past generations. Im grateful for all that he did and I just know from other young priests we had a great deal of affection for him.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
Community members wait in line at the water tank in Peridot, Arizona, so that they can place a red hand print of the mural honoring Emily Pike and everyone impacted by the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples crisis. Photo by Shondiin Silversmith | Arizona Mirror

The creation of the Turquoise Alert System cleared its final legislative hurdle on Wednesday when it passed the state House of Representatives unanimously

The new system, which would function similarly to the existing Amber Alert and Silver Alert notification systems, would coordinate alerts for missing Indigenous or endangered persons through the federally authorized Emergency Alert System.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The final passage comes less than a week after the state Senate amended the legislation, House Bill 2281, to include minors who go missing. The change allows the alert system to be activated in cases like Emily Pikes, an Indigenous teen whose disappearance and murder earlier this year was cited by lawmakers as the impetus for the measure.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

Rep. Teresa Martinez, R-Casa Grande, said she introduced the bill before Pikes story became public, and that the Turquoise Alert could have prevented her murder.

It breaks my heart that we, the State of Arizona, didnt even go looking for this little girl, she said. We cannot let children go missing without somebody being alerted.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Democratic Rep. Brian Garcia, a member of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, said the alert will save lives.

One day, what happened to Emily wont happen to another child, he said.

More than 10,600 Indigenous people were reported missing in the U.S. in 2023, roughly 3,300 of whom were 18 or older, according to the FBI.

The National Missing and Unidentified Persons System reported that more than 23,700 missing persons cases were in the database at the end of 2023, and 255 of those were for Indigenous people.

In 2021, Arizona was ranked as the state with the third-largest number of unresolved missing Indigenous people cases in the country, according to NamUs. There are currently 91 missing Indigenous people cases in the NamUs database for Arizona.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A study from the Urban Indian Health Institute found that Arizona also has the third-largest number of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls in the country.

That study reported 506 known cases in 71 urban areas across the country, 54 of which were in Arizona, including 31 in Tucson.

There is still no single database that provides accurate numbers or data related to missing and murdered Indigenous peoples across the country. With no centralized database among the thousands of federal, state and tribal entities, the information available is limited.

The Turquoise Alert system has been a priority for Indigenous advocates for years, and was requested in 2019, when Arizonas first Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women study committee examined the crisis.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Indigenous people go missing at a higher rate than any other ethnicity, Elayne Gregg, whose 7-year-old daughter was abducted and killed in 2009, told the Arizona Mirror earlier this year. Because that rate is so high, something like this needs to happen.

The bill has received broad bipartisan support as it moved through the legislative process, making it likely that Gov. Katie Hobbs will sign it into law. Hobbs has already directed the Arizona Department of Public Safety to develop a plan for implementing a new alert for Indigenous people by summer.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
Im a 20-year-old student at Paradise Valley Community College and volunteer with Students Demand Action.

I urge Gov. Katie Hobbs to veto Senate Bill 1020, which would force Arizonas colleges and universities to allow people with concealed-carry permits to bring guns to our classrooms, dorms and sporting events.

This reckless bill would make my campus less safe.

The Maricopa Community Colleges Governing Board, which oversees my campus and nine others, has prohibited firearms except in very limited circumstances.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Just like the Arizona Board of Regents, they have made this smart choice to protect students, teachers and visitors. This bill would take the choice away from university governing boards and instead mandate allowing concealed carry on campus.

As a student, I know that nobody needs a gun to go to school. If this bill becomes law, it would allow guns where they do not belong. Students like me would no longer feel safe at school.

The Legislature has again tried to make campuses less safe, but Governor Hobbs can still veto SB 1020. The lives of our students, staff and faculty depend on it.

Carmen Rojas, Phoenix

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Whats on your mind? Send us a letter to the editor online or via email at opinions@arizonarepublic.com.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Concealed carry will make Arizona colleges less safe | Letter
An Arizona woman is facing charges after allegedly faking a pregnancy with The Bachelor star Clayton Echard.

Laura Michelle Owens, 34, was indicted this week for making false testimony in a paternity suit she filed against Echard that included a fake ultrasound image and a fabricated pregnancy video.

Owens is the daughter of Bay Area radio personality Ronn Owens.

Between May 2023 and June 2024, she also allegedly lied under oath multiple times, according to the Maricopa County Attorneys Office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She filed the paternity suit in 2023, alleging she was pregnant with twins. Echard denied the two had had intercourse.

Owens originally filed a lawsuit seeking child support from Echard, then dropped her claim, alleging shed had a miscarriage, the attorneys office said.

A grand jury handed down a multipart felony indictment on Tuesday charging Owens with one count of fraudulent schemes and artifices, one count of forgery, four counts of perjury and one count of tampering with physical evidence.

Echard, who starred on the 26th season of The Bachelor in 2022, posted a a video to social media reacting to the news of the charges against Owens.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This nightmare is over, he said. I am so ready to not have to think about this anymore.

We are so, so thankful, and thank you all for your support, he added, I have not been this happy. This is a weight of two years lifted off my shoulders.
Arkansans sign petitions in support of proposed ballot initiatives in Little Rock on July 2, 2024. (Mary Hennigan/Arkansas Advocate)

The League of Women Voters of Arkansas on Wednesday decried the attorney generals rejection of its proposed constitutional amendment under a new law that prohibits ballot titles from being written above an eighth-grade reading level.

This is the third time Attorney General Tim Griffin has rejected the nonpartisan organizations proposal to amend the states initiative and referendum process and the first time he has rejected any proposed ballot measure under Act 602, which became law last month.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sponsored by Rep. Ryan Rose, R-Van Buren, Act 602 prohibits the attorney general from certifying a proposed ballot title with a reading level above eighth grade as determined by the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level formula. The test uses word complexity and sentence lengths to calculate what grade of education is needed to comprehend written material.

The law cannot be retroactively applied to proposals that were already certified for circulation before the acts effective date. The attorney generals office has already certified three other ballot title proposals that address education, government transparency and taxes on feminine hygiene products for the 2026 election cycle.

Because Act 602 had an emergency clause, it went into effect when the governor signed it into law on April 14. Legislation generally takes effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns sine die. The 2025 legislative session officially concluded Monday.

The League of Women Voters of Arkansas expressed frustration with Griffins decision in a statement issued Wednesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Our ballot title has now been rejected three times, and each time weve addressed the Attorney Generals concerns, said Bonnie Miller, president of the League of Women Voters of Arkansas. This latest hurdle has nothing to do with accuracy or clarity. It is a technicality designed to keep citizens from having a say.

The organization is preparing a revised version of its proposal and is exploring legal options to challenge Act 602, according to the statement.

Were not going anywhere, Miller said. Weve seen this kind of pushback before, and we know whats at stake. We will keep working to protect the right of Arkansans to bring issues directly to the ballot.

The League of Women Voters of Arkansas submitted its first proposal in March with the goal of strengthening direct democracy, according to a press release at that time. Direct democracy is the process by which Arkansans can propose new laws or constitutional amendments and place them on the ballot for a statewide vote. Arkansas is one of 24 states that allow citizen-led initiatives, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Let us know what you think...

If approved, the League of Women Voters of Arkansas proposed constitutional amendment would prohibit the General Assembly from amending or repealing with a two-thirds majority vote a constitutional amendment approved by voters, which it currently has the authority to do.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The groups proposal would also prohibit Article 5, Section 1  the section of the state constitution that permits citizen-led initiatives and referendums  from being amended by a ballot measure referred to voters by the General Assembly.

State lawmakers can refer up to three proposed constitutional amendments to voters each legislative session. This year legislators referred proposals concerning gun rights, economic development and affirming that only U.S. citizens can vote in Arkansas to the 2026 ballot.

Additional provisions of the LWVAs proposed constitutional amendment include requiring a separate vote for an emergency clause to occur at least 24 hours after the passage of a measure, and to allow for the substitution or rejection of ballot measure language by the attorney general to be immediately reviewable by the Arkansas Supreme Court.

In Mondays opinion, which was prepared by Senior Assistant Attorney General Kelly Summerside, Griffin said the League of Women Voters of Arkansas resolved issues identified with previous submissions, but he must reject their most recent submission because of Act 602. Griffin said the submitted ballot title ranks at grade level 12.2, above the now required eighth-grade reading level, and therefore requires significant revisions to comply with the new law.

Any ballot title I could substitute would amount to a wholesale rewrite, but it is the sponsors duty to craft a ballot title that complies with Act 602, the opinion states. As a result, my statutory duty is to reject your popular name and ballot title because it does not comply with the requirements of Act 602 and instruct you to redesign the proposed ballot title in a manner that does not violate the requirements of the Act.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The opinion noted additional problems with the proposal, including grammatical issues and challenges to the measures popular name.

After the Secretary of State assigns a popular name, certain parties may contest the popular name. But your proposed measure does not provide any standards for the popular name or basis upon which it can be challenged, Griffin wrote. Thus, the ballot title misleadingly presents the matter as if there is some basis upon which the popular name could be challenged, even though your proposed measure includes no such basis.

In addition to its proposed constitutional amendment, the League of Women Voters of Arkansas is also addressing the states initiative and referendum process through a lawsuit it filed last month that alleges eight new laws governing direct democracy are unconstitutional.

Act 602 is not part of the lawsuit, which challenges another law that would expand the attorney generals existing authority to reject a proposal if it conflicts with the U.S. Constitution or federal statutes. The suit also challenges laws that affect the petition-gathering process by requiring canvassers to file a true affidavit with the secretary of state, to request a photo ID from signers and inform them that petition fraud is a criminal offense, among other things.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Following the 2023 legislative session, the League of Women Voters of Arkansas filed a lawsuit challenging a law that requires ballot initiative groups to gather signatures from 50 counties instead of 15. A final decision in the case is still pending.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  The surge in REAL ID applications has led an Arkansas agency to change its typical operating procedure.

A spokesperson for the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration said Wednesday that the agency would move to issuing duplicate drivers licenses and IDs online so the state revenue offices could continue to focus on issuing REAL ID. First-time licenses will continue to be processed at revenue offices.

REAL ID takes effect in Arkansas. So, what if I dont have one?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Officials said the move to online will go into effect on May 12.

REAL ID is the result of a federal law requiring heightened ID requirements for certain official purposes, such as boarding domestic flights, accessing federal facilities, and entering nuclear power plants.

The REAL ID requirement went into effect on May 7. DFA officials said the agency is issuing approximately 10,000 REAL IDs a day the week of May 5. They said more than 132,000 were issued in Arkansas between April 1 and early May.

Arkansas revenue offices issue record number of REAL IDs Tuesday, Sherwood office forced to redirect customers after running out

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To request a replacement drivers license or ID, head over to the DFA 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 KARK.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. We highly appreciate Azerbaijan's unwavering support for Pakistan in response to India's attacks, Pakistan's Ambassador Qasim Mohiuddin wrote on his social media account, Trend reports.

"We highly appreciate Azerbaijan's unwavering support for Pakistan in response to India's cowardly attacks on innocent civilians. Pakistan and Azerbaijan will always be together as brothers," the ambassador noted.

Last night, India launched missile strikes on three cities in Pakistan. 26 civilians were killed and 46 were injured in the air strikes.

Afterward, Pakistan began retaliatory strikes against targets in India.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BALLARD, Mo.  An Arkansas man is suspected of burglarizing 14 Missouri schools and two in Iowa. Those burglaries included some not far north of Kansas City and schools in Bates and Cass County.

Authorities believe Curtis Lee Barton, 40, crisscrossed the state targeting rural schools where he could find cash and possibly go undetected, or at least get away before authorities would have time to get there.

Recently burglarized KC business find stolen items on Facebook Marketplace

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In Ballard, Missouri where signs outside the K-12 school advise drivers to share the road with horse and buggies, the last thing people likely thought theyd have to worry about is someone traveling from out of state to commit crime.

Surveillance video from March 16 shows a masked man with gloves who according to Bates County authorities got inside the school and took cash from several locations. The suspect attempted to disable lights and camera systems via a server room in the school, stealing computer components and causing thousands of dollars in damage.

We thought it was an inside job or something like that because who else would come here, we are in the middle of nowhere, parent and Ballard graduate Sarah Bogart said.

The theft and others like it caught the eye of investigators in Wapello County in southern Iowa where a thief stole $4,000 back in February. They discovered a pattern.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He was targeting rural school areas where maybe theres not many houses around there and go undetected very easily, Sheriff Don Phillips said.

A map compiled by investigators shows all the school burglaries occurred the past three months, two in Iowa and 14 in Missouri including Sherwood-Cass R-VIII on April 12.

Cass County detectives havent released details of that break-in. The team of detectives in southern Iowa and northern Missouri developed a suspect. Curtis Lee Barton was out on parole for several similar school burglaries in 2017 and 2018 in central Missouri.

Mayor Lucas sounds the alarm on recent KCPD settlements

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You reach a certain level when you are stealing from the schools, like I said fundraisers for the Special Olympics, Phillips said.

Authorities arrested him at his home in Arkansas last week. On Tuesday, April 29, a joint operation involving Wapello County deputies, Arkansas State Police, and the Lewis County (MO) Sheriffs Office executed the warrants.

The Bates County Sheriffs Office said Tuesday digital evidence tied Barton to the theft at Ballard School and it will work with federal agencies to charge him in federal court.

Were a small community but were strong, were always going to come back and hes going to get what he deserves, Bogart said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android

Barton was jailed in Little Rock Arkansas on a $100,000 cash only bond. Extradition was granted at his first appearance May 1, according to court records.

Multiple additional burglaries involving small businesses are also being reviewed in connection.

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.
(Getty Images)

The Arkansas State Medical Board suspended the license of a Fort Smith physician on Tuesday and launched an investigation into his alleged sex crimes, to which he has pleaded not guilty.

According to Sebastian County Circuit Court records, LaDaryl Lankford faces five felony charges: rape, second-degree sexual assault, video voyeurism, possession of digital child pornography and the introduction of a controlled substance into the body of another.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The medical board did not mention Lankford by name at Tuesdays brief special-called meeting, but chairman Ward Gardner said the allegations of a most severe nature constituted an issue of public health, safety and wellness.

A public records request to the medical board confirmed Lankford was the subject of the meeting. There was no audible objection from any board member to the motion to suspend Lankfords license and investigate the allegations.

Lankford criminal info

Lankford allegedly committed rape and sexual assault against victims who were incapable of consent because they were physically helpless and introduced a controlled substance to the body of another with the purpose to commit any felony sexual offense. These situations occurred between Jan. 1, 2021 and March 30, 2025, according to court documents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The charges of video voyeurism, which involves recording someone who has a reasonable expectation of privacy and has not consented to the observation, and possession of child pornography occurred between Jan. 1, 2016 and March 30, 2025, according to court documents.

The arrest warrant for Lankford, 46, was issued April 21, and he was arrested April 28, according to court documents. He pleaded not guilty April 30, and he is scheduled to stand trial in September.

Lankford obtained his medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in 2005 and applied for his license to practice family medicine in 2007, according to medical board documents.

In 2015, Lankford was among several defendants in a medical malpractice lawsuit from the widow of a deceased Mulberry man, allegedly for failing to provide timely medical care to the mans abdominal issues that led to his death. The case was dismissed in 2017, re-filed in 2018 and dismissed again in 2020.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

State Medical Board records show that in 2019, it issued Lankford a warning after he was found to be prescribing opioids to patients before providing the board with proof of registration to the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program.

The board has addressed allegations of sex crimes and improper administration of drugs against multiple physicians in the past year. In August 2024, the board revoked the license of gastroenterologist Alonzo Williams of Little Rock. The board rejected sexual harassment charges against Williams but accepted charges of negligence and malpractice, including improper opioid prescriptions.

In September 2024, the medical board began an investigation into Forrest City physician Sudesh Banaji, who has been charged with rape and sexual assault. A former employee of Banajis later accused him of sexual harassment.

The medical board denied Banajis request in December to return to practice with some restrictions while the legal action against him is still pending.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
A pregnant woman undergoes an ultrasound examination. (Getty Images)

Far too many women and children have lost their lives due to the maternal health crisis in our state. In 2022, Arkansas had one of the worst maternal mortality rates in the country and the third-highest infant mortality rate in the nation.

In a groundbreaking approach to improving care access, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) operates mobile health units that serve as direct access points for womens health, maternal care and contraceptive services across rural Arkansas. By taking these resources directly to patients, mobile health units eliminate common barriers such as distance, cost and availability, creating a bridge to necessary services.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rural and low-income communities across Arkansas face a unique health care crisis. Due to limited access to health care facilities, particularly for womens health services like pap smears, breast exams and access to contraceptives, many women in these rural areas are not receiving preventive care, reproductive health guidance or family planning resources. Similarly, parental care is not available in more than half of the counties in Arkansas that are identified as maternal deserts.

Obstacles like transportation, language and high costs perpetuate health disparities for many Arkansans. The accessibility of mobile health units yields measurable results. Data from a 20-year study shows that patients who initially receive care through mobile clinics report greater confidence in navigating medical systems, often resulting in more consistent follow-ups and a proactive approach to personal health management.

UAMS mobile health units provide an invaluable service to these communities and offer a unique opportunity to expand Arkansas reach to some of its most underserved residents. This is a life-changing service for many who live miles away from the nearest clinic and a critical means of improving health outcomes for women statewide.

Every womans health visit at UAMS begins with a fundamental question known as the One Key Question: Do you plan to get pregnant within a year? Part of a nationwide protocol, this question encourages open dialogue about reproductive health needs, allowing health care providers to tailor care based on the patients immediate needs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

UAMS is in the process of deploying units to underserved areas across the state to offer a full range of contraceptives directly on-site, increasing the likelihood of patients accessing and continuing their contraceptive method of choice.

With more than half of all maternal deaths considered preventable, we owe it to our communities to eliminate obstacles to womens health services.

But the work doesnt stop there.

Training regional resident doctors is essential for sustaining these services long-term. UAMS trains family medicine residents annually with patient-centered counseling skills in all FDA-approved contraceptive methods and clinical training in Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) insertion and the One Key Question protocol.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These tools are invaluable for new physicians who will continue to offer these critical services, especially in Arkansas underserved areas. Additionally, training in obstetrics and pediatric rotations will help ensure residents are well-prepared to integrate these practices into their medical careers.

As Dr. Kay Chandler, Arkansas surgeon general and a practicing OB-GYN, recently emphasized, a focus on obstetrics care, contraceptive access and womens health is crucial for our state to thrive. Ensuring women have the resources they need to safely carry their pregnancy to term, plan their families thoughtfully and receive essential preventive care is a crucial step toward addressing the glaring health disparities that persist across Arkansas. Over the last few months, Arkansas has made real progress in addressing these disparities through the Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies Act, the Arkansas Community Health Worker Act, and other new laws that expand coverage for women during and after pregnancy.

At the Institute for Community Health Innovation, were proud to be a part of these initiatives and to reach women where they are through our mobile health programs. Our mobile health initiative embodies a vision of health care for all by delivering services, building trust and setting the groundwork for healthier families and communities. These mobile clinics are not just treating patients; theyre connecting rural women to life-saving resources and helping Arkansas take a definitive step toward better maternal health outcomes.

With more than half of all maternal deaths considered preventable, we owe it to our communities to eliminate obstacles to womens health services.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By bringing resources directly to women, enhancing prenatal and obstetric care in rural areas and educating women about reproductive health, Arkansas is taking a powerful step toward changing its dismal maternal health outcomes. These efforts lay a critical foundation for healthier families, more equitable health care access and a future where Arkansas is known for its commitment to the well-being of all its residents.

Visit communityhealth.uams.edu to see when a mobile health unit will be in your area.
ARLINGTON, Va. (DC News Now)  Arlington police arrested a man accused of brandishing a machete while trying to gain access to a residential building.

The Arlington County Police Department (ACPD) said in a news release that just before noon on Sunday, officers were dispatched to the 3400 block of Washington Blvd. after a person with a knife was reported.

The victim, a woman, told police that she was entering a building when a man followed her inside. She told an employee who asked the man to leave.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Police said that the man left the building and brandished a machete before leaving the scene entirely.

Man hospitalized after shooting near Meridian Hill Park

ACPD officers found a man matching the suspects description and took him into custody. Police recovered a machete during the investigation.

Thirty-three-year-old Batbold Saikhanbayar of Arlington was arrested and charged with brandishing a machete and carrying a concealed weapon. Police held Saikhanbayar without 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 DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Deputies are searching for a man who tried to kidnap a teen on Tuesday morning, the Clark County Sheriffs Office said.

Authorities say the incident happened around 8:30 a.m. near the 500 block of NE 149th Street in Vancouver.

A teenage victim reported that a man armed with a handgun approached her and told her to get in his vehicle. The suspect is described as a white male in his 20s or 30s with shoulder-length brown hair, wearing blue pants and an orange hooded sweatshirt. He was seen driving a newer four-door metallic blue sedan, CCSO said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Detectives are seeking any surveillance, dashcam, or doorbell video from the area between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. on Tuesday.

The investigation is ongoing.

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.
An off-duty U.S. Army Black Hawk pilot was found dead in Honduras on Saturday, according to a Joint Task Force-Bravo release.

1st Lt. Marciano Parisano, 25, of Cibolo, Texas, was off base on a liberty pass when his body was found in Comayagua, a city in west-central Honduras. Parisano was assigned to 1st Battalion, 228 Aviation Regiment, at Soto Cano Air Base.

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts; we acknowledge the passing of Lieutenant Marciano Parisano, said U.S. Army Col. Daniel Alder, Joint Task Force-Bravo commander, in the release. He served our unit and mission here at Soto Cano Air Base with dignity, pride and courage.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding Parisanos death is ongoing, officials said.

Army adjusts tracker policy following fatal DC Black Hawk collision

Local authorities have ruled out robbery as a contributing factor, according to Spanish newspaper El Pais. After Parisanos body was found, authorities scoured the area for two hours and located a partially destroyed cell phone purportedly owned by Parisano.

The cell phone showed signs of potential fire damage, El Pais reported.

As a UH-60 Blackhawk pilot with the 228 Aviation Regiment, [Parisanos] contribution to our team is immeasurable, Alder said. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him and serve with him. The command team extends our deepest condolences to 1st Lt. Marciano Parisanos family, friends and loved ones. We stand with you in this time of grief. One soldier lost is one too many.
An airborne soldier was recently recognized for fighting off an active shooter in North Carolina and saving a gunshot victims life in June 2023.

Sgt. Brian R. Lieberman received the Soldiers Medal, which is the highest non-combat award given to soldiers for voluntarily risking their lives in order to aid or protect another person. Indeed, the criteria for the award stresses that it cannot be given solely on the basis of saving a life, or being a good Samaritan. Rather, the recipient must have demonstrated heroism that sets them apart from their peers and must have faced significant personal risk.

In that regard, Lieberman, a medic with the 82nd Airborne Divisions 307th Brigade Support Battalion, more than met the requirements for the award.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lieberman received his award during a ceremony at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, on Tuesday from Col. Jason Schuerger, commander of 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division. Schuerger called it a rare instance of valor and heroism that was well deserved for someone who re-told the story like I would talk about a dinner party the weekend before. You were matter-of-fact. You were nonchalant.

Were here to recognize you today, because that is not how a sane human being responds. Thats exactly how our Airborne medics respond in circumstances, circumstances like that, Schuerger said. Sgt. Liberman, make no mistake, your devotion and actions have distinguished you and brought great pride to our unit. Youre a phenomenal example of the preparedness and selflessness of the troopers within our formation.

On June 5, 2023, Lieberman, then a specialist, was sitting in his Fayetteville, North Carolina, apartment when he heard gunshots outside. Lieberman looked out the window and saw people running and screaming near the apartment buildings pool. Grabbing his personally owned firearm, he immediately ran outside and identified himself as an Army medic. One of his neighbors pointed him to a person whod been shot and desperately needed care.

While treating the gunshot wound, Lieberman saw a car rapidly approaching with the gunman hanging out of the rear window and pointing their firearm toward him. He shielded the gunshot victim with his body while the gunman began shooting. In a scene right out of a movie, Lieberman repositioned himself and took cover behind the maintenance building while the two exchanged fire.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Looking back on it, Lieberman described his reaction as fight or flight, adding in an interview later that I reverted back to everything the Army taught me.

Lieberman returned to the pool area to tend to the victims wound yet again, using a piece of gauze as a seal, treated her shock and helped her maintain consciousness. When police got to the scene with additional medical supplies, Lieberman continued to treat his patient until emergency medical services arrived and took over.

Lieberman said it was an honor to receive the award. He thanked his units leaders for the medical training that paid off, adding that you never know when youll be on the C-17 going to fight these nations wars or responding to a shooter in broad daylight back home.

As medics were constantly training to become experts of our craft, he said. Never stop training, never stop growing your knowledge and skills, and never lose the love of the craft.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Soldiers Medal is an almost 1-and-a-half-inch-wide Bronze octagon displaying a bald eagle standing on a fasces between stars on both sides. The medal hangs on a red, white and blue ribbon. It was established by Congress in July 1926.

During the ceremony, Schuerger also took the time to recognize the role of combat medics, invoking the story of Pfc. Manley Merrill, a WWII combat medic assigned to the 307th Medical Company, which became the support battalion Lieberman is now part of. Merrill received a Silver Star for evacuating casualties from an aid station under heavy enemy fire.

Without a doubt, our airborne medics move to the sound of gunfire, they treat and often save the lives of our troopers, Schuerger said. We recognize you in the same selfless courage of Pfc. Merrill, 80 years ago. You are a combat medic, you move toward danger, treating our wounded and returning fire.

The latest on Task & Purpose
The United States Army is expecting to spend anywhere from $25 million to $45 million on its 250th birthday celebration this June on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., officials told ABC News.

But that number that is likely to grow when factoring in costs from other federal agencies.

PHOTO: U.S. Army soldiers of the 1st Brigade of the 3rd Infantry Division (Raider Brigade) stand side by side, on July 13, 2022. (Picture Alliance/dpa via Getty Images, FILE)

According to officials familiar with the plan, the Army's estimate would cover the cost to fly in some 6,600 soldiers for the event and provide them food and housing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It also would cover the cost of transporting the 150 vehicles -- including tanks -- along with 50 aircraft. Fireworks, military flyovers and musical performances also are planned.

MORE: Nearly 7,000 troops, tanks and parachute jumps: Army confirms military parade coinciding with Trump's birthday

Despite these projections, the total cost to the government for the June 14 event  which falls on President Donald Trumps 79th birthday  is likely to be higher, given the scope.

Officials say the parade and festival is being deemed a National Special Security Event, a designation that puts it on par with other large-scale national events like the Inauguration or State of the Union.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Such events require additional manpower and resources for security led by the Secret Service.

MORE: Army to go 'bigger' to mark its 250th. Could it be the military parade Trump wants?

When asked what security might cost during a hearing Tuesday on Capitol Hill, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem told lawmakers she wasnt sure and would have to get back to them.

Because the citywide parade and festival happens to fall on Trumps birthday, critics have suggested hes using the Army's birthday to justify a military parade similar to what he wanted in order to mark the personal milestone during his first administration.

That event was scrapped in 2018 after cost estimates topped $90 million.

Army expects to spend up to $45M for its 250th birthday celebration in DC originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH)  A man has been arrested in connection to the 2024 murder of Gregory Perez, New Haven police announced on Wednesday.

Oscar Darius, 29, was arrested on Friday. He was charged with murder and carrying a pistol without a permit.

On Jan. 5, 2024, police responded to a shooting on Carmel Street. Upon arrival, they found Perez, 45, suffering from a gunshot wound. Perez later died from his injuries.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

2024: New Haven police investigate citys 1st homicide of 2024

There were reports of an argument before the shooting.

Oscar Darius, 29

Perez and Darius knew each other, police said. The argument they had allegedly stemmed from a tattoo that Perez was doing for Darius.

Darius had other charges against him from other cases, police said.

The department was delayed in making the arrest because Darius left the state, and was located in the Roxbury neighborhood in Boston.

Perezs son, Gregory Perez Jr., and other family members spoke about his memory.

He always loved his family, Perez Jr. said.

The family said this arrest brings them closure.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  A man from Arkansas has been arrested for allegedly scamming a woman in Franklin County out of nearly $90,000, and the Franklin County Sheriffs Office wants to warn the public.

David Nelson, 68, was arrested in April and charged with felony theft in Franklin County. In March of 2025, a senior citizen contacted the sheriffs office, saying she believed she had fallen victim to a scam.

May 2025 primary election results for central Ohio

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Nelson allegedly identified himself as a sweepstakes employee with the Publishers Clearing House and told the victim that she had won $3 million. According to the sheriffs office, Nelson allegedly told the victim that in order to receive the prize money, she needed to pay taxes. The woman ended up sending multiple checks to Nelsons home in Little Rock, totaling approximately $89,000.

We were able to find this individual on surveillance video in the banks, taking these checks in that he had gotten from the victim in this case and was cashing them, FCSO Detective Bill Duffer said. Unfortunately, they fell for it. And, you know, its just something we hate to see.

Duffer said that the office was working in partnership with the Little Rock Police Department to gather evidence. In April, detectives with the sheriffs office made the trip to Arkansas to continue their investigation.

People like the idea of free money and getting something for nothing and then these scammers know that and they prey on that, Duffer said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Which school issues central Ohio voters approved in May 2025 election

Nelson is currently being held in an Arkansas jail while awaiting extradition to Ohio. According to Duffer, the case remains under investigation.

Duffer also said the case highlights the importance of being cautious. Hes reminding people to be skeptical of unsolicited calls, dont share personal information, dont agree to immediate payments, and to be cautious with free offers.

He said that if you feel as though youve been a victim of a scam, call your local law enforcement agency.

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.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. The expanded meeting between Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein was held, Trend reports via the Azerbaijani MFA.

Meanwhile, the meeting focused on key sectors such as economy, trade, energy, transportation and communications, science, culture, education and tourism, and discussed broad opportunities for strengthening bilateral and multilateral partnership.

Moreover, the sides discussed broader regional and global developments and exchanged perspectives on security issues of mutual interest.

Jeyhun Bayramov briefed the other side on the post-conflict situation in the region, reconstruction, demining, and peace efforts, including the current challenges facing the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
Arrests were underway late Wednesday as the NYPD moved in to clear about 100 pro-Palestinian protesters at Columbia University who took over Butler Library just days before final exams.

Several hours into the protest, Acting President Claire Shipman authorized the NYPD to enter campus, on top of a limited number of arrests made by campus security who have the power to take in students. Shortly after, police began clearing the library, coming out with more than 75 protesters in zip ties who they said were trespassing.

The universitys temporary leader  its third in as many years  attributed the decision to the large number of protesters, including a group trying to force their way into the library and people they suspect do not attend the school.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Requesting the presence of the NYPD is not the outcome we wanted, but it was absolutely necessary to secure the safety of our community, Shipman wrote.

Protesters injured two Columbia officers while trying to force their way into the building and the room of the demonstration, the college president said.

Disruptions to our academic activities will not be tolerated and are violations of our rules and policies; this is especially unacceptable while our students study and prepare for final exams, Shipman said. Columbia strongly condemns violence on our campus, antisemitism and all forms of hate and discrimination, some of which we witnessed today.

The main protest group on campus, Columbia University Apartheid Divest, reveled in their ability to pull off the disruption, despite a crackdown on student activists. Last month, an effort to repitch a tent encampment was averted after NBC News publicized their plans.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite Columbias transformation of the university into a dystopian site of surveillance through its carceral expansion of cameras, wifi and ID tracking, externally contracted security, disciplinary processes, and arresting power for Public Safety officers, it still failed to quell the student movement. Students outsmarted the university, exposing the cracks in their broken system, the group said in a statement.

Students know that resisting genocide is their moral imperative, and history is on their side.

Videos on social media showed the activists, who wore masks, pushing through security at the entrance of Butler, the main campus library, shortly after 3 p.m., steps away from where students pitched a tent demonstration last year. They played drums, and posted signs and stickers to free Mahmoud Khalil, a recent Columbia grad who has been detained by federal immigration authorities.

New York City Mayor Adams condemned the protest by making a plea to their parents on live television.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Parents, if your children are going to Columbia campus and participate in this, I think you should reach out to them, Adams said on NBC 4. This is not what you do on the college campus, particularly going inside a library and protesting in this manner. We are in engagement with the college.

Nearly an hour into the protest, the large group attempted to push through public safety and out of the reading room, but were stopped by personnel who asked for their identification cards, the videos show.

Through a megaphone, one officer informed students that if they show ID, they will be allowed to leave without issue, but failure to do so would make them subject to arrest.

Individuals have been asked for identification, which will be recorded, and asked to disperse. They have been told that failure to comply will result in violations of our rules and policies and possible arrest, the school said in a statement, adding that protesters would face discipline.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Shortly after, at least three protesters were brought out of the library by Columbia security in handcuffs before the NYPD was brought on campus. Thirty-six personnel are gaining arrest powers under a deal negotiated with the Trump administration.

A fourth person was taken out on a gurney by emergency medics and put into a Columbia ambulance.

Inside, a vandal with a green marker wrote on glass cases and desks Columbia will burn 4 the martyrs and Butler was a Nazi, an apparent reference to former Columbia president Nicholas Murray Butler, according to photos on social media.

One person pulled a fire alarm inside the library, prompting demands by protesters to be let go without the precondition of their identity. Another group of about 50 demonstrators gathered outside the library chanting Free Palestine.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Columbia finals begin on Friday, according to an academic calendar.

Its an utter disgrace, said Columbia alum Franziska Sittig, 24, who finished a masters program last year. My finals were disrupted last year. Neither the administration nor the protesters have learned anything.

Another observer, a 28-year-old Columbia researcher who declined to give her name, said she witnessed the protester be taken out on the stretcher.

They tried to push the public security out, and security pushed back, she said. Thats when one of the protesters went down.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The library demonstration was at least the third takeover of a campus building this semester, after activists staged occupations of an administrative building and library at the affiliated Barnard College.

They followed the high-profile occupation of Hamilton Hall last spring, for which several students were expelled earlier this year.

Once again, protesters violated many University rules, Hillel executive director Brian Cohen said in a statement Wednesday, and infringed on the rights of Jewish students to study for exams without being screamed at and harassed.

Columbia is actively negotiating with the Trump administration to restore $400 million in federal funding that was canceled over claims the school did not do enough to protect Jewish students from harassment during the protests. It was not immediately clear if Wednesdays protests would derail those efforts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Students should be able to study peacefully in the library of a school they pay tens of thousands of dollars to attend, Republican Rep. Tim Walberg, chair of the U.S. House education committee, said in a statement. Instead, the school enables antisemites who antagonize students and make Jews on campus feel unsafe. Unacceptable.

About 200 protesters continued their demonstration outside the campus gates after the library was cleared.

With Josephine Stratman
Jefferson, Ohio (WJET/WFXP) Law enforcement in California and Ashtabula County, Ohio, announced theyve made an arrest in connection with a 1977 cold case murder.

Police have charged 69-year-old Willie Eugene Sims of Jefferson, Ohio, for the murder of 24-year-old Jeanette Ralston back on February 1, 1977, in San Jose, California.

Charges against Sims were announced last week by the Santa Clara County District Attorneys Office, saying Sims allegedly murdered Ralston by tying a shirt around her neck and strangling her, then tried to burn the car her body was found in but was unsuccessful.

Willie Eugene Sims Jeanette Ralston

The medical examiner also added that the autopsy showed signs of sexual assault.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ralstons body was found in the back of her car in 1977, and the case went unsolved for decades until a fingerprint was found on one of her cigarette packs in August 2024 that investigators were able to link back to Sims.

That fingerprint led to investigators asking the Ashtabula County Sheriffs Office to collect Sims DNA, which police said was consistent with the DNA found on Ralstons fingernails and the shirt used to strangle her.

Every day, forensic science grows better, and every day, criminals are closer to being caught. Cases may grow old and be forgotten by the public. We dont forget and we dont give up, said Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen.

During the time of the murder, Sims was a member of the U.S. Army stationed at Fort Ord and was convicted of assault to commit murder in 1978, but moved out of California before his DNA could be entered into the national DNA database.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sims is still facing extradition to California. If convicted, he faces 25 years to life in 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 WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com.
By Abhijith Ganapavaram, Ben Blanchard and Ariba Shahid

TAIPEI/NEW DELHI (Reuters) -Airlines including United Airlines and Korean Air re-routed or cancelled flights and about a dozen Indian airports were shut on Wednesday after India struck nine sites in Pakistan, raising fears of an escalation.

India attacked Pakistani Kashmir and Pakistan said it had shot down five Indian fighter jets in the flare-up, which followed an attack by Islamist militants that killed 26 people in Indian Kashmir last month. India said it hit "terrorist infrastructure" related to the tourist killings. Pakistan rejects that it has such camps on its territory.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Images from flight tracking websites showed a long line of airlines passing over Oman, UAE and Kuwait after the attack, raising the possibility of airspace congestion.

Authorities in Pakistan said 57 international flights were in the country's airspace when India struck. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's office said India's action "caused grave danger to commercial airlines" belonging to Gulf countries and "endangered lives".

India's civil aviation ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Pakistan's remarks.

In the last few days, India and Pakistan had shut their airspaces to each other's airlines. Global airlines like Lufthansa have also been avoiding Pakistan's airspace.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"If the conflict continues, there is a chance that Pakistan could impose a full airspace closure, as they did from Feb. to Aug. 2019 under similar circumstances," aviation advisory body OPSGROUP said in a blog post published Wednesday.

Domestic flights in both countries were also disrupted. Three percent of scheduled flights in India and 17% of scheduled flights in Pakistan were cancelled as of 1030 GMT, according to Flightradar24.

India's top airline IndiGo said it was cancelling 165 flights till Saturday morning. Its shares were down 1.1%. Flights belonging to Air India, SpiceJet and Akasa Air were also cancelled.

Pakistan said its airspace was open following closure after the attacks and that its airports were "fully functional."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Images from FlightRadar24 showed some civilian jets flying over Pakistan airspace but India's northwest continued to be deserted.

GPS SPOOFING CONCERN

The changing airline schedules are set to further complicate operations in the Middle East and South Asia regions for carriers, which are already grappling with the fallout from conflicts in the two regions.

A spokesperson for Dutch airline KLM said it was not flying over Pakistan until further notice. Singapore Airlines said it had stopped flying over Pakistani airspace since May 6.

Korean Air said it had begun rerouting its Seoul IncheonDubai flights on Wednesday, opting for a southern route that passes over Myanmar, Bangladesh, and India, instead of the previous path through Pakistani airspace.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

United Airlines said it had cancelled its flight to Delhi, citing in part "airspace limitations". The U.S. airline operates one direct flight from Newark to New Delhi.

American Airlines said it made adjustments to its operations to New Delhi and would allow customers impacted by the changes to change their plans without charge.

Thai Airways said flights to destinations in Europe and South Asia would be rerouted starting early on Wednesday morning, while Taiwan's China Airlines said flights to and from destinations including London, Frankfurt and Rome had been disrupted.

Flights from India to Europe were also seen taking longer routes. Lufthansa flight LH761 from Delhi to Frankfurt took about half an hour more to reach its destination compared to Tuesday, according to FlightRadar24.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines voiced concern over the impact of conflicts on airline operations.

"Apart from cost and operational disruption, there are safety concerns as GPS spoofing interfering with flight operations over conflict zones is one of the highest risks the industry faces," it said in a statement.

GPS spoofing is a malicious technique that manipulates Global Positioning System (GPS) data, which can send commercial airliners off course.

(Reporting by Ben Blanchard, Abhijith Ganapavaram, Dan Catchpole and Ariba Shahid; Additional reporting by Joanna Plucinska in London, Jin Hyun Joo in Seoul, Khanh Vu in Hanoi, Bart Meijer, Shivansh Tiwary and Jun Yuan Yong; Editing by Michael Perry, Raju Gopalakrishnan and Philippa Fletcher)
City Councilors and residents of the Hyde Park community continue to push the conversation for more safety infrastructure in the neighborhood, after 5-year-old Lens Arthur Joseph was struck and killed by a school bus just a little over a week ago.

More speed, bumps, crosswalks and stop signs are just some of the changes neighbors say can help keep the neighborhood safe.

Family identifies young boy struck, killed by school bus in Boston

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To honor the legacy, to honor the life of Lens especially in this situation where the residents of Hyde Park are asking for change and their asking for something immediate, City Councilor Enrique Pepen tells Boston 25 News. This is going to take a community effort. I know that Hyde Park is mourning as a community, the bus drivers are mourning, the family is obviously mourning so its going to take all of us to come together and pray for one another too, he added.

Residents tell Boston 25 News that intersections like Truman and Washington Street are dangerous, especially when drivers are careless.

Its wild how people drive, you know what I mean, you see so many kids and the fact that they drive the way that they do its crazy, a Hyde Park resident tells Boston 25 News.

Boston Police says this is still an open investigation. No arrests have been made at this time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The West Fairmount Hill Community Group is expected to host a community gathering to discuss community concerns later this month.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
Alejandro Rodarte-Martinez was nominated by the Department of Biology. A San Angelo Lake View High School graduate, he is a biology major with chemistry minor. His academic achievements earned him induction into the Beta Beta Beta (Tri-Beta) national biological honor society, where he served as president. He was also actively engaged in other campus affairs, serving as a representative for the American Chemical Society chapter and as an organic chemistry and cell biology tutor in ASUs Academic Support Center. He participated in the ASU-Shannon Coordinated Care Internship and also interned at UTHealth Houstons McGovern Medical School through ASUs Joint Admission Medical Program.

Additionally, Rodarte-Martinez earned a Welch Chemistry Research Scholarship and an ASU Faculty-Mentored Undergraduate Research Grant to support his research in organic chemistry, which he presented at the ASU Undergraduate Research Symposium. He will enter medical studies at McGovern Medical School in Houston, where he hopes to specialize in internal medicine.

Sydney Anderson was nominated by the Department of Health Science Professions. The Alpine native is a health science professions major with minors in biology and psychology. She earned induction to the Alpha Chi and Phi Kappa Phi national honor societies, served as president of the Health Science Society and participated in the Lead Like a Ram program. Additionally, she volunteers as a WHIT tutor and participated in the ASU-Shannon Coordinated Care Internship. She plans to begin graduate studies and pursue a career in medicine.

Isabela Casillas was nominated by the Department of Political Science and Philosophy. A San Angelo Central High School graduate, she is majoring in political science with minors in philosophy and Spanish. She earned induction into the Alpha Mu Gamma national foreign language honor society and participated on ASUs Eugene Scassa Mock Organization of American States competition team, earning Diplomacy and Resolution Writing Awards for the latter. Additionally, she served as secretary of both the Spanish Club and the STEM Nexus Club, participated in the Lead Like a Ram program, and volunteered as a WHIT tutor and a Tom Green County elections clerk. She plans to pursue legal studies after graduation.

Audrey Spearman was nominated by the Department of Teacher Education. The Christoval native is an interdisciplinary studies major with early childhood through grade 6 teacher certification and all-level special education certification. She earned induction into the Alpha Chi and Phi Kappa Phi national honor societies and Kappa Delta Pi international education honor society. She served as president of Kappa Delta Pi, participated in the Lead Like a Ram program, and was a member of the ASU Co-Ed Cheer Team for two years, serving as captain for the 2023-24 academic year. She plans to pursue a Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree in student development and leadership in higher education.

Matthew Barton was nominated by the Departments of Computer Science, Mathematics, and Physics and Geosciences. The Leander native is a triple-major in physics, mathematics and computer science, and he will graduate with High University Honors through the ASU Honors Program. He earned induction into the Alpha Chi, Phi Kappa Phi, Sigma Pi Sigma (physics) and Pi Mu Epsilon (mathematics) national honor societies. He served as president of the ASU Society for Physics Students and was a member of the Honors Student Association and the local chapter of the Mathematical Association of America. He received two Faculty-Mentored Undergraduate Research Grants and presented his research at the Texas Section of the American Physical Society Conference and the ASU Undergraduate Research Symposium. Additionally, he was selected for a highly-competitive Detonation Science Fellowship at the Naval Air Warfare Center at China Lake, California. He will enter the Ph.D. program in electrical engineering at Texas Tech University this fall.

Mia Kilman was nominated by the Department of Management and Marketing. She is a marketing major from San Saba and earned induction into the Alpha Chi and Phi Kappa Phi national honor societies. She served as president of the RAMbassadors volunteer leadership program, participated in the Lead Like a Ram program, and presented research at the ASU Undergraduate Research Symposium. Additionally, she placed third in the Norris-Vincent College of Business BizPitch student entrepreneurship competition and completed an internship at Principal Industries. She will pursue her Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Angelo State while working as a business analyst at Principal Industries.
ATHENS, Tenn. (WATE)  A couple in Athens has taken every step possible to get the contractor they hired to return and finish the work he started three months ago.

Johnny and Amy Guillot realize now that they made a mistake by paying their contractor upfront. They paid the contractor more than $9,000, but the couple says hes never worked a full day and has come up with a lot of excuses. He did start the job, which was supposed to take less than a week, but then he quit and hasnt returned.

Bean Station sewer project gets $1.5 million in state funding

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Amy Guillot and her husband operate a canine obedience and training business. The couple also boards dogs of all sizes at their home. They hired a contractor to lay flooring in their hallway, but it is now coming apart. They also paid him to install a new ceiling in their basement, add four new light fixtures and add structures to level the floor above their basement. None of this work was done.

Dip in the Guillots basement celling (WATE)

He was supposed to relevel the entire upper floor of the house. So we got gaps up there. Here you can see that there is a dip. And significantly, this dips really good. This area is part of the main concern on both sides of the basement, said Amy Guillot.

There is new flooring in the bedroom and down the hallway. The workmanship is questionable, though. Amy Guillot pointed to incomplete work.

Gov. Bill Lee issues first-ever veto to reject bill making it easier to deny parole

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Were missing baseboards. Not done, not complete. In here, well, weve got a hole in the wall. He never put all of the baseboards up. All these baseboards are lying all over the place. Its kind of like a jigsaw puzzle of baseboards that belong everywhere, said Amy Guillot.

Missing baseboards on Guillots floors (WATE) Gap in the Guillots flooring (WATE) Hole in the wall of the Guillots home (WATE) Baseboards stacked inside the Guillots home (WATE) Baseboards stacked inside the Guillots home (WATE) Flooring popping up at the Guillots home (WATE)

We just wanted someone to put some flooring in for us and have the job done. That was it. It was that simple. He said he could do it in three to four days, said Johnny Guillot.

The contract was signed in February and the couple paid him everything upfront.

He hasnt been here in over a month, said Amy Guillot. Unfortunately, this floor here is coming apart already because it is not complete. There is supposed to be some trim work right there. He did not put a transition at the top of the stairs. Since he never did that there is nothing pushing against the floor to keep it in place, so it is popping up pretty good.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The contractor is Jerry Gardner from Decatur. He calls his business Home Improvement.

Amy sent many messages to him and said, Hey, are you coming today? Yes, Im on my way. Never shows up and thats happened numerous times, said Johnny Guillot.

Buddys Bar-B-Q reopens on East Magnolia Avenue after 2024 fire

The couple said Gardner claims to be licensed and insured.

Amy Guillot explained, Amy Guillot explained. He will not furnish the insurance. When I asked him about the license, he said he has a business license.

They sent a demand letter on April 14, giving Gardner 10 days to respond. He didnt.

Demand letter sent to Gardner by Amy and Johnny Guillot.

At this point, I dont know anymore. I dont know, I want him to come finish the job, considering that it is not even good work, said Amy Guillot.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She wrote about her experience with Gardner on Facebook.

I have had several people who have come forward after I made a post on social media. I was shocked because numerous people came forward to tell me they were having the same problem, she said.

She has tried to get in touch with Gardner for weeks.

Im blocked. He will not take my call. He will not answer my messages, said Amy Guillot.

So, we called Jerry Gardner on our phone, thinking maybe hell answer. He didnt. We left a message on Gardners other phone. Theres been no response.

I really prefer that we just get the materials so we can move on and hire someone else. Maybe some part of a reimbursement, so we can pay someone else to do the job correctly, said Amy Guillot.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

READ: More top stories on WATE.com

The Guillots have filed a complaint against Gardner with the state Department of Commerce and Insurance. They have also sent one more demand letter to him. When hiring a home improvement contractor, payments are made in stages, with a deposit upfront ranging from 10% to 25% to secure the contractors services and materials. Remaining payments are made at specific project milestones, and the final payment is typically due after the project is complete. In this case, the project is far from being finished.

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.
Editors Note: Video courtesy of FBI Atlanta

ATLANTA (WRBL)  The Federal Bureau of Investigation announced today the conclusion of their coordinated effort to arrest accused child sex abuse offenders. The FBI says their coordinated efforts of 55 FBI field offices resulted in the arrest of 205 people and 115 children rescued nationwide.

As part of the operation, titled Operation Restore Justice, the Atlanta Field Office charged nine people. Five people in Atlanta, three people at the Augusta resident agency, and two people out of the Rome area. The charges for eight of the subjects range from possession of child sexual abuse material to enticement of a minor. One person was charged with obstruction of justice.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Our commitment is resolute. FBI Atlanta remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard children from those who seek to harm societys most vulnerable, said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta.

The FBI says this operation between April 28 and May 1, was a joint effort with federal, state and local partners to coincide with the end of Child Abuse Prevention Month and highlight the FBIs ongoing efforts to confront these crimes.

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.
(This story was updated to add information).

Indiana election officials including Secretary of State Diego Morales are facing a federal lawsuit over a new state law that restricts college students from using university-issued IDs as a form of identification to vote in Indiana elections.

Two advocacy groups - Count Us In and Women4Change Indiana - along with an Indiana University student filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana on May 5. They allege that Senate Bill 10, which was recently signed into law by Gov. Mike Braun, is an unconstitutional "surgical attack on young voters" that restricts their rights.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They're asking for an injunction from the court to "ensure that young Hoosiers can freely exercise their constitutional rights in Indiana's elections," according to the federal complaint.

"While prohibiting the use of student IDs will not advance any of the legislators' purported rationales, it will make it harder for a specific group of people - young voters - to participate in Indiana's elections," according to the lawsuit.

Morales and the Indiana Election Division did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the lawsuit. However, Morales' office released a statement applauding Senate Bill 10 generally.

"Secretary Morales wants the youth to vote, but they must get an Indiana driver's license like every other Hoosier and claim Indiana residency," according to his office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lawsuit points out that since Indiana's voter ID law went into effect in 2005, tens of thousands of young voters at public colleges and universities in Indiana have been able to use their student IDs to vote as long as those IDs meet the state's general requirements, including containing a voter's name, photograph and expiration date.

In fact, in Monroe County, home to Indiana University, the election supervisor there estimated that two-thirds of students used their student IDs to vote at the on-campus polling place in the 2024 general election, according to the lawsuit.

The complaint states that Indiana law doesn't exclude any other category of ID in the same way, with the legislature even expanding the scope of acceptable IDs, such as military IDs that do not contain an expiration date. Voters can also still use federal Veterans Affairs cards as an acceptable form of ID.

"SB 10 reverses course, narrowing the types of photo ID acceptable for voting for the first time in Indiana's history," according to the complaint. "Legislators have attempted to justify the sudden change as a way to ensure that only U.S. citizens and Indiana residents can vote in Indiana elections. But there is no evidence that these are actual problems in Indiana, and even if they were, SB 10 does not require people to use IDs that prove citizenship or residency."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The individual litigant in the case is Josh Montagne, a 20-year-old resident of Bloomington and a sophomore at Indiana University. He's originally from Missouri but has lived in Bloomington since 2023. He registered to vote in Indiana that year and has voted in three elections: the 2023 municipal election, the 2024 primary and the 2024 general election.

"Each time, Mr. Montagne used his student ID card issued by Indiana University Bloomington to satisfy Indiana's photo ID requirement," according to the complaint. "Although Mr. Montagne still has a student ID card, he does not and has never had an Indiana drivers license, an Indiana ID card, or any other form of identification accepted under Indianas photo ID law following the passage of SB 10."

SB 10 makes it harder for him to vote, the complaint said.

Proponents of SB 10, however, said it's not too much of a burden to get an Indiana state ID.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I don't think it's too much to ask: If you're going to vote, have one of these," Rep. Matt Lehman, R-Berne, said previously.

During a legislative committee on the bill, state Sen. Blake Doriot, R-Goshen, said he didn't want to inhibit students from voting.

"Let me be clear: my intention is not to prevent students from voting," Doriot said. "My intention is to have eligible people in the state of Indiana vote, and I do not want to limit one of them."

The plaintiffs are working with Elias Law Group, a national law firm founded by Democratic election lawyer Marc Elias, who has previously argued cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. He's become notable for fighting President Donald Trump in court and over Trump's untrue claims about the 2020 election being stolen.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Angela Carr Klitzsch, chief executive officer for Women4Change Indiana, said it's notable that the Elias Law Group wanted to take on the case against Senate Bill 10.

"We're excited to be part of the filing given what we believe to be efforts to suppress youth voters and try to find a problem when there has not been one around fraud," Carr Klitzsch said.

Voter fraud is very rare nationally, though it does occasionally happen. The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, found that there's been 59 cases of voter fraud in Indiana since 2003. There were 2.9 million votes cast in Indiana in just the 2024 general election

Contact senior government accountability reporter Hayleigh Colombo at hcolombo@indystar.com. Sign up for our free weekly politics newsletter, Checks & Balances, by IndyStar political and government reporters.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indiana faces lawsuit over SB 10 banning student IDs for voting
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. On May 7, To Lam, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, arrived in the Republic of Azerbaijan for a state visit, Trend reports.

A guard of honor was lined up in honor of the General Secretary at Heydar Aliyev International Airport, which was decorated with the national flags of both countries.

General Secretary To Lam and his wife, Ngo Phuong Ly, were welcomed by Azerbaijans First Deputy Prime Minister Yagub Eyyubov, Deputy Foreign Minister Elnur Mammadov, and other officials.
Fentanyl test strips are among the cheapest and easiest ways to prevent overdoses, but multiple attempts to legalize them  even with Gov. Greg Abbotts support in the past  have failed in the Senate.

This year, legislation to legalize these test strips faces similar challenges.

I think that theres a different stream of thought that feels like if you give an inch, you give a mile, and that any sort of lessening of prohibition stance is sort of giving up and giving over to drug use, said Katharine Neill Harris, a drug policy fellow at Rice Universitys Baker Institute for Public Policy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

House Bill 1644, by state Rep. Tom Oliverson, R-Cypress, would remove testing strips for fentanyl and xylazine, a veterinary sedative also known as tranq, from the list of banned drug paraphernalia. This bill passed unanimously in the House last month and is now pending in the Senate.

Fentanyl, a potent drug commonly mixed with other substances and has caused the deaths of more than 7,000 Texans in the last six years, is odorless and tasteless, making detection nearly impossible without specialized equipment.

This is why Oliverson called fentanyl testing strips a mine detector for a person trying to walk across a minefield.

A package of fentanyl strips. One line indicates fentanyl is present, and two lines indicate a negative result. Credit: Leila Saidane for The Texas Tribune

The cost of fentanyl test strips can range from $10 to $30 for a box of 30. To use the strips, testers dissolve a small amount of a drug in water and then dip the strip into it. One line indicates fentanyl is present, and two lines indicate a negative result.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is the second legislative session in a row that Oliverson has tried to get his bill passed. Both times, his legislation didnt get a committee hearing in the Senate. With less than four weeks left in the legislative session, his bill this session hasnt yet been considered in the Senate Criminal Justice Committee.

Oliverson, in his speech from the House floor, suggested that Senate lawmakers fear that legalizing the strips would mean that people would start using drugs to their hearts content safely.

I want every person in Texas who is struggling with addiction to get the help they need. But I cant fix that if they are dead, Oliverson told lawmakers last month when his bill passed.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who oversees the Senate, did not return a request for comment nor did the criminal justice committee chair, Sen. Pete Flores, R-Pleasanton. Sen. Joan Huffman, R-Houston, credited by drug policy advocates last legislative session for blocking fentanyl testing strips from a hearing, didnt comment on whether she supports legalization.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The structural nature of the Senate, where the lieutenant governor has the power to decide whether a bill gets a hearing or not, can be quite a big hurdle, Harris said.

Travis County Judge Andy Brown said the delay in legalizing fentanyl testing strips is only costing lives with each passing year.

Our fight against the number one cause of accidental death in Travis County is hampered by the fact that we havent legalized fentanyl test strips in Texas, Brown said.

Advantages of fentanyl strips

Early last year, a rash of over 70 overdoses rocked Travis County in a span of three days, killing more than nine people. However, more deaths could have occurred if the county and the state hadnt made efforts to get overdose reversal drugs like Narcan and naloxone to the general public last legislative session.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To combat the growing number of fentanyl overdose deaths in Texas, state lawmakers in 2023 launched a $10 million fentanyl awareness campaign and plan to distribute doses of Narcan to every county in the state.

I also get the sense that publicity campaigns that we have done and that the state has done have helped get the education out there, too, Brown said.

Brown said Travis County, despite the harrowing encounter last year, saw a decline in fentanyl related deaths, dropping by 36%, from 279 in 2023 to 179 in 2024.

A Texas Harm Reduction Alliance drop-in center in South Austin on May 5, 2025. Credit: Leila Saidane for The Texas Tribune

During this same period, deaths from fentanyl overdose statewide dropped 14%, to 5,070 in 2024.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We dont know yet if this is a long-term decline. Certainly, it's an encouraging development that we hope to see continue, Harris said, pointing out that 87,000 deaths are still a lot.

A dip doesnt mean a complete decline as the drug market is unpredictable. This is why drug policy advocates and others are clamoring for the legalization of drug testing strips, which are cheaper to stock than Narcan and can keep someone from using fentanyl in the first place.

In December 2022, Abbott announced his support for fentanyl testing strips as he believed the opioid crisis had gone too far. Attempts to contact Abbott to see if he still supports testing strips were not returned. Abbott did not respond to a request for comment on whether he still supports legalization.

I think we would reduce the number of deaths that were seeing in the state of Texas if we just made test strips legal, Brown said.

Uncertain future

Maggie Luna, executive director of the Texas Harm Reduction Alliance, an Austin-based nonprofit that does outreach and operates a drop-in center for people who might need Narcan, condoms, bandages, and more, has seen firsthand the demand for fentanyl testing strips.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Their organization cant legally buy testing strips but accepts tests donated to them from other states.

People are always asking for fentanyl testing strips and xylazine test strips, Luna said.

The Texas Harm Reduction Center distributes Narcan and other supplies to clients. Credit: Leila Saidane for The Texas Tribune

The Texas Harm Reduction Alliance has been on the front-lines of this fight against drug-related deaths, reversing more than 300 overdoses in 2024 alone with Narcan, Luna said.

If fentanyl use continues, Luna is concerned about it worsening because of federal funding cuts to substance abuse programs, Texas lawmakers attempt to ban intoxicating substances like hemp and kratom, and the economic downturn, which notoriously leads to spikes in drug usage.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We are going to start seeing people seeking drugs at the same time we are clawing back the money that we have for tools to keep people alive, Luna said. We are heading to a period of death.

Luna said legalizing test strips allows organizations like hers, which face an uncertain future, a cheap option to save lives.

Every overdose can be reversed if we are applying the right education and giving out the correct tools, Luna said.

Disclosure: Rice University and Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy have been financial supporters 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.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Texans seeking help for substance use can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administrations free help line at 800-662-4357. They can also access services in their region through the Texas Health and Human Services website.

First round of TribFest speakers announced! Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Maureen Dowd; U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-San Antonio; Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker; U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff, D-California; and U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Dallas are taking the stage Nov. 1315 in Austin. Get your tickets today!
A picture shared by U.S. Army WTF! Moments social media shows an inmate at the U.S. Disciplinary Barracks on Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, being recaptured after a failed escape attempt, Task & Purpose has confirmed.

The picture shows the inmate entangled in concertina wire atop a fence as two soldiers try to help him down.

A total of two inmates were injured in the April 29 escape attempt, which was foiled by correctional specialists from Fort Leavenworths Corrections Brigade, said Lt. Col. Bryen Freigo, a spokesman for the U.S. Army Combined Arms Center at Fort Leavenworth.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The inmates were treated for injuries and returned to custody, Freigo told Task & Purpose. Public safety was maintained throughout the incident. The attempted escape remains under investigation.

No further information about the incident was immediately available.

The picture of the escape attempt was shared in a Monday social media post by U.S. Army WTF! Moments, which identified the man tangled in the wire as a former Green Beret.

Freigo told Task & Purpose that the inmate shown in the picture is not the person named on social media.

As a standard practice, we do not disclose information regarding inmates, Freigo said. Due to the ongoing investigation, we are unable to provide any additional details.

The latest on Task & Purpose
Video: Arkansas League of Women Voters speaks on lawsuit regarding changes voter referendum process

LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  An effort to overturn changes to the ballot referendum process hit a roadblock Monday when Attorney General Tim Griffin rejected the groups proposed ballot title.

The submission by the Arkansas League of Women Voters was to place recent changes to the referendum process before voters as a referendum. This is the second time the groups ballot title was rejected.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

League of Women Voters submits Arkansas ballot question to roll back initiative changes

In his rejection, Griffin cited the quality of the submitted ballot title and said it does not meet the requirements of one of the laws passed during the recent general assembly. The requirement, signed into law on April 14, requires all ballot titles to have an eighth-grade reading level.

The attorney general also cited a grammatical issue with a sentence that had extra words in it, possibly a typo.

The league has also filed a lawsuit in federal court to overturn the changes to the referendum process. Changes made to the process during the 95th General Assembly include the reading requirement cited in Griffins opinion, along with tightening the signature gathering process.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Arkansas League of Women Voters files federal suit, calls changes to voter referendum process Unconstitutional

It is not unusual for a group to have ballot titles rejected by the AG before forming one that is accepted to go before voters.

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 KARK.
Virginia Beach, June 2021 (Photo by Sarah Vogelsong/Virginia Mercury)

What started as a call for financial transparency has exploded into bitter infighting within the Republican Party of Virginia Beach, pitting local GOP chair Laura Hughes and her conservative grassroots allies against the leadership of the 2nd Congressional District GOP Committee  and, by extension, the partys entrenched establishment wing.

With accusations of stonewalling, sabotage, and political retribution flying, the dispute has deepened long-standing tensions and raised concerns about how party unity will hold heading into key statewide elections in November.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The conflict will come to a head this Wednesday, when members of the 2nd District GOP committee will hold a closed executive session in Chesapeake to vote on whether to remove Hughes from her post  a move her allies say is an anti-democratic power grab by establishment figures.

Hughes, an attorney and former Virginia Beach school board member, was elected local GOP chair in March 2024 at a packed mass meeting of about 1,100 Republicans. Her victory by 95 votes surprised many  including longtime power players  and marked a shift toward grassroots-driven leadership. But with that shift came deepening fractures.

When I took office, I thought the hardest part would be rallying people and getting them excited to grow the party, Hughes told The Mercury in an interview Monday. I didnt realize the biggest fight would come from inside.

Virginia Beach GOP Chair Laura Hughes with Gov. Glenn Youngkin. (Courtesy Republican Party of Virginia Beach)

One of her first priorities was to push for a formal audit of the local committees finances, which she quickly learned had not been conducted since 2014  despite the partys bylaws requiring annual reviews.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When I couldnt get access to basic financial documents, I decided to ask for an audit, she said. It seemed irresponsible not to.

That decision, Hughes said, opened a hornets nest.

The committees former treasurer, she alleged, refused to provide documents or grant her access to records. Eventually, the state party stepped in to perform what was termed a financial review  though not a formal audit  and Hughes said that when the report was finished, she was only allowed to view it after signing a non-disclosure agreement.

I think the whole body of the party should be allowed to have it, Hughes said. There were a lot of procedural issues that have been going on for years and years and years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a detailed Facebook post last week, Hughes accused prior local leadership and 2nd District Chair Dennis Free of blocking accountability efforts at every turn. She wrote that after engaging the state party, the audit was taken out of our committees hands and handed to people at the state level, ultimately becoming just a report, not an audit.

Free did not respond to phone calls and text messages seeking comment.

A push for transparency

Hughes told members she was required to sign a nondisclosure agreement just to see the report and described the process as an alarming lack of transparency.

The members should be able to see the report and have their questions answered, she wrote, warning that instead of letting the report speak for itself, Free had called for her removal without a single vote from the members who built this committee back from dysfunction.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Karen Heesch-Gilman, who took over as the local committees treasurer under Hughes, reinforced those concerns in an email obtained by The Mercury, describing how Hughes had struggled to access basic materials such as old bank statements, QuickBooks records, or deposit slips.

Laura had no choice but to purchase bank statements at a cost of $150, Heesch-Gilman wrote.

Even after the state party review, Hughes said, the missing records were only handed over  sealed in a box  shortly before Free announced the meeting to decide her fate.

Heesch-Gilman underscored that many of the financial problems dated back years and were not the fault of the current leadership.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Most of the audit report details issues inherited and are correctable, she wrote. Nothing places blame or indicates incompetency of the current executive board.

Free, the chair of the 2nd District GOP committee, defended the upcoming vote at a Republican breakfast event last Saturday, telling the crowd that the meetings sole purpose was to determine whether Hughes had failed to function in her role.

I heard a lot about Chairwoman Hughes and that she had to sign an NDA, a non-disclosure agreement, to see the audit. Thats not correct, Free said in a video of the event obtained by The Mercury.

The information is confidential because it can only be shared among party members. It is wrong and unethical for a party member to take confidential information and share it with a non-party member. He warned that mishandling confidential materials would amount to an ethical kind of violence, punishable by censure or removal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But Hughes backers argue that the move is a blatant overreach.

It should be with us, not in the 2nd District committee, Virginia Beach GOP Vice Chair Paula Chang said to applause at the breakfast. Chang said Free had bypassed the local committee that initiated the financial review in the first place.

Virginia Beach Republicans fight back

Jim Cohen, a longtime Virginia Beach Republican, pointed to Bruce Meyer  vice chair of the 2nd District GOP committee and a key player in the push against Hughes  as a driving force behind the turmoil.

Cohen said Meyer has long operated behind the scenes, shaping party outcomes and influencing Free.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its been happening for years and years, Cohen said. Youve got factional fighting, youve got various groups with various interests. Youve got people who, in politics, they want sex, money, or power, and in this case, its all about power. Its all about who has their hands on the wheel and who they dont want to have hands on the wheel.

Meyer said in a text message that he is very aware of the many issues concerning Laura Hughes, but added he would hold off on further comment until he has reviewed the RPVs audit report on Wednesday.

For the record, I have always recognized Laura as the chair of the RPVB and still do, Meyer noted. In fact, I introduce her every Saturday, at our weekly breakfast, so she can give her report about the Republican Party of Virginia Beach.

Cohen said the dynamic is nothing new, describing years and years of pattern where Meyer has attacked anyone who didnt give him power or whom he hadnt backed in a prior election.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Every meeting we have, Bruce Meyer will stand up and try to come up with anything he can to call, to try to get the room to turn against her, Cohen said, speaking about Hughes. While he acknowledged that infighting happens in both Democratic and Republican parties, Cohen emphasized that the real issue arises when you weaponize rules that we all agree to play by in order to take action against an individual.

Adding to the chorus of criticism is Jimmy Frost, a Virginia Beach Republican for 16 years who ran unsuccessfully for local chair in 2020 and has long positioned himself as part of the partys conservative, anti-establishment wing. Frost called the effort against Hughes basically a political hit job.

From the moment Laura was elected, these folks in, I guess you can call it the establishment wing of the party as represented by Dennis Free, just cannot conceive of the reality where theyre not in charge, Frost said.

And they have been attempting to undermine Laura at every turn, even from the first meeting when they tried to put forth an alternate board of directors that included many of the same people who were running the party under (former local chair) Bill Curtis.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Frost said the pattern is familiar. When he ran for local party chairman five years ago, he faced multiple attempts by insiders to force him out. I had no less than five different attempts made to either convince me, intimidate me, or basically try to buy me out of running, he said.

Reflecting on the stakes of the latest intra-party showdown, Frost said the problem runs deeper than one leadership dispute.

If you take a position that is anywhere opposed to or different from what the establishment of the party thinks is the way to go, these people will try to destroy you personally, publicly, professionally, and permanently, he warned.

And looking ahead to Wednesdays high-stakes meeting, Frost said bluntly: I think Dennis is going to railroad Laura. But we are going to be there for her.

Mark Peake, the chairman of the Republican Party of Virginia, said he doesnt know Hughes well and has only had limited interaction with her, noting, I think Ive spoken to her twice.

Still, in a phone interview Tuesday Peake made clear he is not enthusiastic about the escalating battle inside the 2nd District.

In my tenure as RPV chairman, the last thing I want to have happen are intra-party fights, he said. I dont think it is good for the party to try and remove people that have been elected unless theres a crime, or unless theres something that would be very offensive and detrimental to Republicans.

While Peake acknowledged that the district committee does have the authority to remove a local chair, he voiced concern about the potential fallout. They can do that, or otherwise they wouldnt be having that meeting, he said, adding that he was not fully informed on the specific issues driving the conflict.

What worries Peake more, he said, is the larger picture.

Weve got statewide elections in November. Democrats already got the Senate, theyve got the House. If they win the governorship, the 200 bills that Governor (Glenn) Youngkin vetoed this year are going to get signed, Peake warned.

We cant risk that happening. So I want all Republicans attention to be focused on beating the Democrats in November, and thats always what we should be focused on, unless something like I previously discussed has happened, and that has not happened in Virginia Beach.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
The Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum and Memorial is working on a project to create a certified digital replica of the preserved concentration and extermination camp which can be used as a virtual film location.

The initiative is likely to draw considerable interest from the film world because the production of fiction feature films is not permitted at the memorial, situated on the site of the Auschwitz-Birkenau camp in southern Poland, where around 1.1 million people died in horrific conditions during World War Two.

More from Deadline

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Jonathan Glazers The Zone of Interest, for example, was made in cooperation with the memorial and museum, which gave the production access to camp documents, survivors testimonies, and expert guidance, and also allowed it to scan parts of the area of the former camp.

However, none of the dramatic reconstructions were filmed on the site. Documentary films are allowed to film with permission, which meant the final sequences of the Oscar-nominated drama, showing the work of the museum and the objects that belonged to victims, could be shot on its premises.

The groundbreaking digital replica project, bannered Picture From Auschwitz, will be presented in a panel at the Cannes Film Festivals Marche du Film as part of its technology and innovation focused Cannes Next strand.

Polish director Agnieszka Holland and Polish American photographer Ryszard Horowitz; an Auschwitz survivor, who was one of the youngest survivors on Schindlers List, will join Auschwitz-Birkenau Foundation CEO Wojciech Soczewica, Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum Deputy Spokesperson Pawe Sawicki and the projects creative producer Maciej Zemojcin on stage to talk about the project.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Zemojcin and his team are using cutting-edge 3D scanning technologies to create a certified digital replica which preserves and protects the sites historical integrity.

The certified digital replica offers filmmakers a revolutionary tool rooted in accuracy and ethical storytelling helping combat denial and distortion at a time when misinformation is on the rise, read a release announcing the project and panel.



Designed for a wide range of films  from documentaries to large-scale Hollywood productions  Picture From Auschwitz supports the telling of the true story of the camp as out of numerous reasons the historical site is not and will not be accessible for filmmaking.

The replica will feature every detail of the site from the Arbeit Macht Frei entry gate to its fence posts, with every brick or roof tile of its buildings meticulously documented, to reveal perspectives and details invisible to the naked eye. The data will be preserved and reprocessed over time as new technologies emerge.

Zemojcins team has already completed a 1:1 digital replica of Auschwitz I using the most advanced spatial scanning tools available. Next steps in the project include completing the digital interiors of Auschwitz I, and the exteriors and interiors of Auschwitz II-Birkenau camp  securing the entirety of the Memorial site.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Licensing fees for the virtual replica will directly support the Memorial, which is marking the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the camp this year, and its mission of commemorating all victims, fighting antisemitism and all forms of hatred as well as raising reflection about our contemporary moral responsibility.

Partners on the project include the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum and Memorial, Auschwitz-Birkenau Foundation, American Friends of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Foundation, Creative Media Europe, ATM Virtual and Leica Geosystems.

Footage from the project will be showcased during the panel while a website for the initiative will go live on May 15.

Best of Deadline

Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
By Christine Chen and Jorge Nieto

SYDNEY/GOLD COAST, Australia (Reuters) -Australia's film industry wants actor Mel Gibson to do what he does in his action-hero movies and save the day, by convincing U.S. President Donald Trump to drop his film tariffs which could devastate its A$1 billion ($650 million) Hollywood business.

Industry leaders said the tariffs would cause a large number of job losses in the local film production sector, drive up ticket prices, and called for U.S.-born Gibson, who launched his career in Australia, to use his role as a Trump adviser to urge the president to reconsider.

In January, Trump hired Gibson as a "special ambassador" to Hollywood although he didn't elaborate on his role.

"Hopefully Mel Gibson, as one of Trump's advisers in this space, is telling the President that this is a dumb idea," Kate Carnell, chair of industry body Screen Producers Australia, said in an interview.

Gibson plans to shoot a movie in Italy this year, according to industry media, which could be impacted by the U.S. tariffs.

"For Mel Gibson to make his movie in Italy and then to have a 100% tariff for it to be shown in America is just nonsensical," said Carnell.

Trump on Sunday announced a 100% tariff on movies produced outside the U.S., saying the American movie industry was dying a "very fast death" due to the incentives that other countries were offering to lure filmmakers.

Trump's latest tariff announcement bewildered studio executives who for decades have overseen productions across several continents and could not understand how it would work. It also sent shockwaves through film industries abroad where Hollywood shoots movies for cheaper production costs.

AUSTRALIAN FILM INDUSTRY AT RISK

Since the first Star Wars prequels and Matrix sequels were shot in Sydney in the early 2000s with the Australian dollar near a record-low against the U.S. dollar, Australia's film industry has become enmeshed with Hollywood.

International spending on film and television productions in Australia was about half the industry's total A$1.7 billion expenditure in 2024, says Screen Australia, a government body, which noted the overall figure fell 29% since the prior year partly due to a Hollywood writers' strike.

"One hundred percent tariffs would be devastating for the Australian film industry ... we're talking about a lot of jobs (lost), hard to put a number on them," Carnell said, adding Australia's U.S. film business was worth around A$1 billion. "People are saying, 'how could they do this? It's so stupid'."
Austins soul has always been its people, from the chefs preparing fantastic food to the musicians who make us the live music capital of the world. But as the city grows, we face a hard truth: Many of our people, including artists, teachers, nurses, service workers and young families, can no longer afford to live here.

At Austin Habitat, we hear it daily: Families with steady jobs and deep roots are being priced out of the neighborhoods they helped shape. While demand has increased home prices, so has the lack of diverse housing options. Smaller, modest homes, backyard cottages, and condos  once common in Austin  have become rare.

Austin school district teacher Steven Caplan does yard work in October 2023 in front of his Austin Habitat for Humanity home. Teachers, nurses and service workers are having difficulty finding housing they can afford in Austin.

To preserve Austins identity, its imperative we make room for everyone who gives this city its character and charm.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thats exactly what were doing through a powerful new partnership in Northeast Austin. In collaboration with Travis County, Austin Habitat is building 48 affordable homes in Whisper Valley, a sustainable, mixed-income community. Its a bold step toward restoring balance in our housing system. Already, momentum is building  proof that local leadership matched by statewide support drives real change.

This fall, well host the Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project and build 25 of those 48 affordable homes in one week with volunteers and future homeowners. Its community in action, proof that partnerships can be compassionate, creative and focused on the shared belief that everyone deserves a home.

Adrianne Todman, then serving as acting secretary of Housing and Urban Development, participates in January at an Austin Habitat for Humanity wall-raising ceremony in Prospect Heights. Austin Habitat will hold an event this fall to build 25 homes in another community called Whisper Valley.

And we can do more. By embracing common-sense solutions such as allowing homeowners to build backyard homes, converting vacant offices into housing, or empowering faith-based groups to build on their land, we can open doors for more families while preserving the character that makes our neighborhoods special.

This session, the Texas Legislature has a chance to act on four bills that would give cities the tools to create homes while preserving character and meeting local needs:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 Senate Bill 673/HB 1779 to legalize backyard homes

 SB 844/HB 24 to end landowner vetoes in housing decisions

 SB 840/HB 3404 to enable housing near offices and shopping centers, and

 SB 854/HB 3172 to empower faith groups to build housing

Polling by Texans for Housing shows most Texans support these exact solutions  including 61% who favor allowing backyard homes, strong majorities backing housing near businesses and empowering churches and nonprofits to build homes and a majority against landowner vetoes.

These ideas arent controversial. Theyre practical. What they require is the willingness to imagine an Austin where opportunity is shared and neighbors are welcomed, not pushed away.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Because at the end of the day, this isnt just about housing. Its about community. Its about ensuring our kids can grow up and stay here, that our teachers and nurses arent forced to move away.

The choice is ours. We can cling to outdated policies that exclude, or we can lean into a future where Austin thrives because everyone has a place here. Preserving Austin doesnt mean freezing it in time. It means ensuring the people who make it vibrant, diverse, and resilient can keep calling it home.

I urge lawmakers to act. Austinites should contact their representatives and say clearly: We need these housing bills passed now. Because the future of our city depends on it.

Michele Anderson is the CEO of Austin Habitat for Humanity.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: We cant preserve Austin without building for its people | Opinion
AUSTIN (KXAN)  Police in Austin, Texas, are asking for the publics help in finding a 9-year-old girl who has not been seen in more than seven years after her mother was accused of locking another child in a closet for weeks at a time, according to an arrest affidavit.

Ava Marie Gonzales was last seen by family in December 2017, when she was 2 years old. She was in the custody of her mother, Virginia Gonzales, at the time and was not reported missing, according to detectives.

Virginia Gonzales was arrested last month on a charge of serious injury to a child charge officers responded to an apartment in Del Valle for a welfare check. A 911 caller said she found her 7-year-old granddaughter, Avas younger sibling, malnourished, soiled and barricaded in a bedroom closet, the arrest affidavit read.

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children developed this age-progressive photo showing what Ava Gonzales might look like at nine, the age she would be now. (Photo Courtesy APD)

The grandmother told police that other children in the home were ordered to put the girl in the closet because she had issues controlling her bladder and was always getting into stuff, which the grandmother clarified meant she was trying to eat things she was not supposed to, the affidavit said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The girl was taken to Dell Childrens Medical Center, where she was found to weigh 29 pounds, the affidavit said. She had dark-colored spots covering her body that medical staff said were signs of malnourishment, and she made comments that her bones hurt.

An older sibling told police the girl would eat a hot dog/corndog in the morning and in the evening and would only receive half a cup of water, according to the affidavit. The pantry, fridge and freezer were all found to be stocked with a variety of food items, police said.

Mugshot of Virginia Gonzales (Courtesy Austin Police Department)

The closet had no light or air circulation and was about 4 feet 9 inches by 1 foot 10 inches. Other items in the closet meant the girl had even less space, according to the affidavit. Boxes placed in front of the closet door to barricade the girl inside had a combined weight of more than 75 pounds, police said.

Police are now asking for the publics help in finding Ava, who would now be 9 years old.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Austin Police Departments Missing Persons detectives are seriously concerned about Avas welfare given the circumstances in which Avas 7-year-old sibling was found, Det. Russell Constable, with APDs Child Abuse Unit, said in a Tuesday press conference.

Photos of Ava Marie Gonzales (Courtesy Austin Police Department)

Anyone with information about Avas whereabouts is asked to email ava@austintexas.gov. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers by calling 512-572-8477.

Shelly Troberman, an attorney with Child Protective Services experience, said it is highly unusual for a child to go missing for so long without anybody noticing.

I think the way most of us conduct our lives, were taking children to regular doctors appointments. Many of them are in preschool. Oftentimes, theres a second parent whos involved in the childs life, Troberman said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Austin police told reporters that none of the seven children living in the apartment were enrolled in school.

I would say its pretty unusual, especially to have children as old as the 14-year-old, whove never been inside a classroom, Troberman said.

Troberman added that she has worked on cases in the past where people did not know of a childs death due to the parent providing conflicting information to family members and officials.

Youve got a lot of different people sometimes operating in these cases, getting different information and sharing incorrect information with each other, Troberman said. It makes it hard.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
An Australian mining billionaire is seeking support from Ed Miliband for a new multibillion-pound power link between Europe and North Africa.

Andrew Twiggy Forrest, the founder and boss of iron ore giant Fortescue, has held discussions with the Energy Secretary in recent weeks about the project, which would aim to pipe clean energy generated from African solar farms to the European Continent.

Fortescue wants to develop up to 100 gigawatts (GW) of clean power capacity in North Africa, with talks ongoing with various European governments about running multiple subsea cables alongside one another to bring over electricity.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These would be able to transport up to 500 terrawatt hours (TWh) of electricity per year, roughly equivalent to Germanys entire annual consumption or 17 Hinkley Point C-sized nuclear power stations operating round the clock.

It would be backed up by battery storage and potentially hydrogen-fired power plants, ensuring the proposed interconnector could provide round-the-clock supplies and potentially support for system stability as well.

Fortescue has yet to confirm the interconnectors route but it is understood that power for Britain would be transported via other intermediary Western European countries.

Andrew Twiggy Forrest, the founder and boss of iron ore giant Fortescue, is in discussions with the Energy Secretary - Matt Jelonek/Getty Images

The mining company last year signed a deal with Belgium-based offshore cable maker Jan de Nul to look at potential manufacturing facilities in Morocco.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is the latest business to look at tapping the vast solar power of North Africa, with a 25bn project proposed by rival Xlinks also vying for support from the Government.

In an interview with The Telegraph, Mr Forrest said: Youve got the most impossible amount of energy being wasted every single day in North Africa right now, so were developing a proposal to send the equivalent of 500TW to Europe.

And I really want to stress, this is not intermittent. It would be 24/7, baseload power, just like what I need to run my company.

It cant run on wind and solar going up and down, it cant stop for Christmas, it cant stop for Easter. It has to go every second of every day.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thats when we need power, and thats when Britain and Europe do as well.

Mr Forrest founded Fortescue in 2003 and built it into one of the worlds biggest iron ore producers. But following a near-death experience in 2016, he became involved in environmentalism and vowed to transform his company into a green energy champion.

He has argued his interconnector scheme can help to cut the power bills of European households and businesses while improving grid stability.

The billionaire insisted he was not seeking subsidies from the Government but wanted a deal that would commit the UK to buying electricity at market prices over a set period of time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I want Ed [Miliband] to say, well buy X at market [prices], he said.

By comparison, the rival scheme proposed by Xlinks, which is backed by former Tesco boss Sir Dave Lewis, is seeking a so-called contract for difference which would guarantee the project a fixed strike price for the power it supplies.

The Xlinks cable would transport solar and wind power generated in Moroccos Saharan Tan-Tan region to the Devon coast, via 4,000km of underwater cables.

Mr Miliband has pledged to cut household energy bills by 300 a year and make Britains electricity system 95pc clean by 2030.

His target includes increasing the capacity of interconnectors linked to the UK from 10GW currently to up to 14GW.

Iberian blackouts

The Fortescue proposal has emerged just weeks after Spain and Portugal suffered unprecedented national blackouts, with electricity grid stability now high on the agenda.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some experts have raised concerns that cascading failures in the Spanish system, the cause of which are still unknown, may have been worsened by a reliance on renewable energy sources.

This is because many solar and wind farms do not tend to provide so-called system inertia  the spinning momentum that turbines generate as a by-product  which can add to grid instability when there are sudden changes in supply and demand.

Supply and demand must be kept balanced at all times on electricity systems for the lights to stay on.

In the wake of the Spanish crisis, experts have also highlighted the relatively low number of interconnectors between the Iberian peninsula and the rest of the Continent.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A key link with France went offline as the blackouts spread and automatic systems kicked in to protect vital infrastructure from being damaged.

A spokesman for the British Government was approached for comment.

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.
MELBOURNE, Australia (AP)  Australias newly re-elected Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Wednesday he would visit Indonesia next a week to underscore a key bilateral relationship.

Albanese said he would meet with President Prabowo Subianto on May 14, a day after his new government is sworn in.

That is  a signal to our region of the importance that we place on this region. We will in the fastest growing region of the world in human history, Albanese said in an interview with the Australian Broadcasting Corp.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Albanese described Subianto as a good friend of mine on a personal level as well as our countries being close.

We have no more important relationship than Indonesia. We have an important economic relationship with them. They will grow to be the fourth largest economy in the world. We have an important defense and security relationship with them as well, Albanese said.

Albaneses center-left Labor Party won a second three-year term in an emphatic election victory on Saturday.

Newly-elected Australian prime ministers typically make their first bilateral visit to Asia, usually Indonesia. But Albaneses election rival Peter Dutton, leader of the conservative opposition, had proposed breaking from tradition by making his first overseas trip as prime minister to the United States to strike a better tariff deal with President Donald Trump.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Australia was hit during the election campaign with a global-minimum 10% tariff on exports to the U.S. despite trading with its bilateral free trade partner at a deficit for decades.

Media reports last month that Russia had told Jakarta it wanted to base long-range warplanes in Papua, the most eastern Indonesian province, were also raised as a security issue during the election campaign. Indonesia has told Australia that no such Russian base would be allowed.

Cementing Australias bilateral relationship with Indonesia is critical, according to Natalie Sambhi, a policy expert with the Sydney-based Asia Society Australia educational institute.

Indonesia is our closest strategic partner in the region. Visiting again is just sending that message home that Indonesia really matters to Australia and that we have to work together given our proximity as emerging middle-powers in the region, Sambhi said.

Albanese will travel to Alberta, Canada, in June to attend a Group of 7 summit and is expected to meet Trump during a U.S. bilateral state visit while in North America.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. The First Deputy Minister of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan  Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army, Colonel General Karim Valiyev together with a delegation led by the Chief of General Staff of Hungarian Defence Forces, General Dr. Gabor Borondi visited the Central Command Post of the Air Force, the Cybersecurity Center and one of the commando military units, Trend reports via the Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense.

The Hungarian delegation pays an official visit to Azerbaijan.

First, the Deputy Minister of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan  Commander of the Air Force, Lieutenant General Namig Islamzade informed the representatives, who arrived at the Central Command Post of the Air Force, about the structure and activities of the command post, which meets modern standards and is equipped with high-tech capabilities.

The guests were provided with a detailed briefing on the control of our country's airspace, coordination of flight operations, and headquarters-level management processes.

Then the representatives arrived at the Cybersecurity Center and got acquainted with the activities carried out to ensure the cybersecurity of modern weapon systems and information technology equipment adopted into the Azerbaijan Armys armament, as well as with the conditions created at the center. Additionally, the delegation was informed in detail about modern cybersecurity tools powered by artificial intelligence.

Subsequently, the chiefs of staff of both countries visited one of the commando military units and got acquainted with the conditions created in the unit.

After watching servicemens activities on the mountain commando rappel tower and along the scout trail, the guests were presented with an exhibition showcasing the weapons, ammunition, and military vehicles available in the armament of the Azerbaijan Army.

Detailed information was provided on their tactical-technical characteristics, as well as on the rules for their proper use.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
LAWRENCE COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT)  Authorities are asking for the publics assistance to identify a man who was killed in a crash that happened on Wednesday.

The Lawrence County Coroners Office said that a man died in a fiery crash that happened along County Road 55 around 8:30 a.m.

According to the Lawrence County Sheriffs Office, County Road 55 connects County Road 460 and County Road 7 between the communities of Landersville and Youngtown.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Upon arrival, responders found a mid-2000s model Nissan Altima that had left the roadway and caught on fire. LCSO said that a deceased male victim was found inside the vehicle.

The sheriffs office said it was a four-door vehicle that possibly had a chrome door handle.

Due to the extent of the fire damage, vehicle identification numbers (VINs) are currently unrecoverable.

The remains have been transported to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences for further examination and identification.

The Coroners Office is asking anyone who has a missing family member that drives a mid-2000s white or gray Nissan Altima to contact the Lawrence County Coroners Office at (256)-974-0663.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The crash remains under investigation by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.

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.
Wilson Chavez, the defendant in a fatal shooting at the Candlewood Suites in Terre Haute on Monday night, is not a U.S. citizen and is in the country illegally, according to the Vigo County Sheriff's Office.

In addition to a preliminary state charge of murder, he also is held on a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainer, according to the sheriff's office.

Chavez, 30, of Dallas, is accused in the shooting death of co-worker Jaime Munoz.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to a statement from Terre Haute Mayor Brandon Sakbun, "The city of Terre Haute has been working directly with federal agencies. We will continue to support federal law enforcement and will release further information once they allow us."

Court records indicate formal charges are due by Thursday, and Chavez is set for an initial hearing Friday in Vigo County Superior Court 1, Judge Charles D. Johnson presiding.

On Monday night, city police and other agencies responding to a report of the shots fired inside Candlewood Suites, 721 Wabash Avenue, found Munoz on the floor of a fifth-floor guest room. He had been shot several times and was not breathing, police said in a court document.

It appears Chavez and Munoz were employees of Champion Contractors and were sharing that hotel room. A colleague of theirs told police hed seen arguments between the two, including one at lunchtime Monday.

Police said a handgun, holster and shell casings were recovered from inside the hotel room.

Chavez reportedly spoke to police and denied shooting Munoz or doing him any harm.
SAN JOSE, Calif. (KRON)  Baby Phoenix died at home the day before Mothers Day with fentanyl powder splotched on her pink onesie. A San Jose police officer who tried to save the 3-month-old infant on May 13, 2023, said when he picked her up to perform CPR, the officer felt like he was holding a doll.

The babys mother, Emily DeLaCerda, screamed, my baby is dead, according to new court documents filed by Santa Clara County prosecutors.

Phoenixs father, David Anthony Castro, still had a stash of fentanyl stored inside a Lego toy box in the San Jose home. In the hours leading up to his daughters death, the father had sent text messages to his drug dealer asking for strong sh*t.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At 6:36 p.m. on May 12, 2023, Castro texted his dealer, You got that strong s**t? Let me know.

Phoenix was poisoned by a toxic combination of methamphetamine and fentanyl, a medical examiners autopsy concluded.

Castro, 39, appeared in court Tuesday to face felony child endangerment charges. His defense attorney requested that the judge divert the case out of criminal court and into mental health diversion. If Judge Meghan Piano agrees, Castro would be sent to a mental health treatment center instead of prison.

Fentanyl was found on Baby Phoenixs pink onesie. (Photos via Santa Clara County Superior Court)

Prosecutors are fighting Castros motion. Defendant now seeks to avoid accountability for his deliberate actions by filing this motion for Mental Health Diversion. Defendants behavior and choices led to Baby Phoenixs environment being so toxic and so dangerous, that it actually killed her, Deputy District Attorney Maria Gershenovich wrote in court document filed last week.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Castros defense attorney said her client was diagnosed with adjustment disorder, opioid use disorder, amphetamine use disorder, and alcohol use disorder. The defense argues that the fathers mental disorders  primarily addictions  make him suitable for mental health diversion.

Charges filed against Castro carry a 10-year prison sentence. Justice will be denied for Baby Phoenix if Castros case is diverted, Gershenovich said.

Gershenovich wrote, Defendant has purposefully squandered every single opportunity at treatment, clearly demonstrating he does not care to change his behavior and address his addiction and mental health. He also actively worked to deceive anyone who attempted to hold him accountable in treatment, for social workers, to dependency court, to law enforcement. Defendant now wants this court to believe that somehow this time will be different. It will not. What (Castro) is actually doing is requesting an opportunity to erase this conduct from his life and his history, while Baby Phoenix is gone forever.

David Castro is seen in a 2023 mugshot provided by the San Jose Police Department.

The prosecutor noted that Castro still has two surviving children who would be endangered if their father is let out of custody.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Judges have wide discretion for either granting or denying mental health diversions. On Tuesday, Castros hearing at the Hall of Justice in San Jose was pushed back to August 5 to give the defenses experts more time to conduct behavioral and mental health evaluations. Judge Piano will make her ruling at the hearings conclusion.

Phoenixs father blames her deceased mother

Castros new defense strategy veers sharply from his preliminary hearing, which was held in February of 2024. At the preliminary hearing, defense attorneys attempted to re-directed blame toward the mother, Emily DeLaCerda.

Castro had sole custody of Phoenix. DeLaCerda was either in jail or rehab for the majority of her daughters very short life. Phoenix was born on February 12, 2023, she remained in the hospital for two weeks, and her mother was arrested in March. Just one week before Phoenixs death, DeLaCerda was transferred from jail to a residential rehab facility.

My baby is dead. Santa Cruz mother never called 911 for Baby Z after fentanyl poisoning

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Castro was alone with his baby at home when she was poisoned by fentanyl on May 13, 2023, investigators said. At 10:08 a.m., the father called 911 reporting that his baby was not breathing at their apartment at 5479 Spinnaker Walkway, police said. A detective testified that the home was littered with drug paraphernalia, including broken glass pipes and aluminum foil.

A police evidence photo shows aluminum foil found inside Castros apartment on the day Phoenix died. (Photo via Santa Clara County Superior Court)

DeLaCerda had left her drug rehab facility earlier that morning to visit her baby for Mothers Day, court documents state. The mother arrived at the apartment at 10 a.m. Five minutes later, she ran outside very distraught, screaming, my baby is dead.'

Four months after Phoenix died, DeLaCerda died from a fentanyl overdose on September 16, 2023, inside the same apartment on Spinnaker Walkway, police said.

Father allegedly lied to San Jose police

Investigators found evidence that Phoenixs father lied to police about circumstances around his babys death, recently filed court documents state.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During an interview with San Jose Police Department detectives, Castro lied and told detectives that he had not been using any controlled substances, and last used drugs before Phoenix was even born, Gershenovich wrote. The father claimed that he fed Phoenix her bottle and they fell asleep together on the couch watching television at 1 a.m. on May 13, 2023. He also told detectives that his friend, Jonathan Huth, arrived at the apartment unannounced and told him to call 911 after seeing Phoenix.

Gershenovich wrote, Defendants self-serving false statements have since been disproven. Follow-up investigation uncovered that (Castro) lied about his actions that morning and showed the lengths defendant was willing to go to in order to hide his crime.

Castro realized that his baby was unresponsive and not breathing at 9 a.m., prosecutors said. Instead of immediately calling 911 to get help for Baby Phoenix, defendant actually called his friend Jonathan Huth a bit after 9 a.m. He asked Jonathan to come over. Once Jonathan got to his house, (Castro) gave Jonathan cash and asked him to bike to a nearby smoke shop to get some fake synthetic urine. Jonathan did as he was told, Gershenovich wrote.

Castro waited to call 911 until after his friend returned with the fake urine, prosecutors said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Detectives combed through cellphone data from the fathers cellphone. His text messages showed that, despite his claim of being clean since Phoenixs birth, Castro frequently bought drugs from dealers, including the day before Phoenix died.

After SJPD Detective Harrington confronted Castro with the text message evidence, the father allegedly admitted to heavy drug use and cheating on drug tests from Child Protective Services agents. He explained how he managed to game the testing system and how he would time his drug use to ensure he tested clean for DFCS social worker during the time he cared for Phoenix, Gershenovich wrote.

Santa Clara County Courthouse (Image by KRON4 / Amy Larson)

Prosecutors argue that Castros history of resisting drug treatment and lying to county officials make the father extremely unlikely to comply within the courts mental health diversion system.

Castro and his deceased girlfriend, DeLaCerda, lost custody of their two older children in the summer of 2021 and in February 2022. They were placed in protective custody after both of their parents were arrested for child endangerment due to unsafe conditions in the home.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

County pledges to reform CPS after Baby Phoenix dies

After losing custody of his two older children, Castro failed to work with county officials, accept resources, or answer phone calls from social workers despite the risk of never getting his children back. His lack of effort is well documented, Gershenovich wrote.

Castro remains in custody and locked in a Santa Clara County jail.

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.
A young elephant seal was stabbed multiple times on a beach in Neskowin, Oregon.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is seeking public help to identify the suspect.

Harming marine mammals is a federal crime under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, carrying penalties of up to $100,000 and one year in prison.

Federal authorities are looking for the person who stabbed a baby seal several times on a beach cove in Oregon.

The 300-pound elephant seal pup, which survived the attack, has mostly recovered, authorities say  and now they want help from the public to identify its attacker, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said in a statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The stabbing occurred on March 16, between 8 and 11:30 p.m. at a beach cove near a condominium in Neskowin, Oregon, according to the NOAA announcement. The baby seal began to heal by mid-April with no signs of lasting injuries.

Young elephant seals like this often spend time on their own, learning to hunt and growing larger, before eventually returning to breeding areas in and around the Channel Islands off Southern California, Michael Milstein, a public affairs officer with NOAA said to The New York Times.

On Monday, the agency released a sketch and described the suspect as a white man who's about 5 feet 10 inches tall, with black and white hair, a groomed beard and a large gap between his front teeth, per the NOAA announcement.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

He was wearing aviator glasses with thick lenses, a thin blue-and-green fleece top, and a low-profile black cap with a logo depicting an orange four-track excavator with the word timber on it, The New York Times reported, citing NOAA. He also wore dark pants and lightweight hiking shoes or low boots.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Per the description, NOAA are also seeking a vehicle seen in a parking lot next to the cove behind the condos. The inside of his dark blue 1990s Dodge or Chrysler van was described as cluttered and the rear passenger window on the drivers side was covered in plastic.

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.

The federal Marine Mammal Protection Act prohibits harassing, harming, killing or feeding wild elephant seals and other marine mammals. Violators can face federal criminal penalties of up to $100,000 in fines and up to 1 year in jail.



Read the original article on People
NESKOWIN, Ore. (AP)  The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is searching for the person who stabbed a baby seal multiple times on a beach in Oregon.

The seal survived the March attack in a cove in the small town of Neskowin, which sits along the Pacific Ocean, NOAA said Monday. The administrations marine stranding team was able to move it to a more secluded beach in Washington state last month.

Its wounds were healing, it had grown to about 300 pounds and there were no signs that the stabbing was going to have lasting effects, Michael Milstein, a spokesperson for NOAA Fisheries West Coast region, said in an email.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The agency's law enforcement office, which is investigating the attack, was searching for a person of interest spotted by a witness. Officials were also looking for the owner of a vehicle seen in a parking lot near the cove behind a condominium building that may be connected with the Sunday evening attack, according to NOAA.

Officials are asking anyone with information on the person of interest, vehicle owner or attack to call NOAA's enforcement hotline.

In the spring and summer, juvenile elephant seals will often drag themselves onto Oregon's beaches to spend weeks shedding their hair and skin, according to Oregon State University's Marine Mammal Institute. Adult elephant seals are rarely seen in the state.

The seal that was stabbed likely left its mother very recently and was on its own to learn to hunt, Milstein said. Once it had grown a bit more, it would have likely made its way back to breeding areas around the Channel Islands off Southern California

The federal Marine Mammal Protection Act prohibits harassing, harming, killing or feeding wild elephant seals and other marine mammals. Violators can face criminal penalties of up to $100,000 in fines and up to 1 year in jail.
After struggling for years to gain enough bipartisan support to tighten the states bail laws, Texas Republicans appear closer than ever to achieving their elusive goal of amending the state Constitution to keep more defendants behind bars pretrial.

GOP leaders see the issue as a matter of life and death, arguing that stricter bail laws are needed to curb violent crime tied to defendants who are out on bond. Critics, led by civil rights groups and progressive Democrats, view the bail crackdown as an infringement of the civil liberties of defendants who are legally presumed innocent and an unfunded mandate to counties who could see their jail populations soar.

The push to stiffen Texas bail laws has been largely spearheaded by Gov. Greg Abbott, who has named the issue an emergency item for three straight sessions. But the effort has repeatedly stalled in the House, thwarted by Democrats who have killed GOP bail measures by running out the clock or denying the two-thirds support needed from both chambers to put a constitutional amendment before voters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fresh off a victory on school vouchers  his other top priority  Abbott has zeroed in on the bail measure, which he recently painted as one of the most important pieces of legislation this session.

There are thousands of bills that are working their way through the Legislature, Abbott said in Houston last week. None of them have the deadly consequences as much as this legislation  to amend the Constitution to keep these deadly, dangerous, violent criminals off the streets.

Lawmakers this session are actively negotiating a package that could win support from all 88 House Republicans and at least 12 Democrats, the minimum threshold to reach two-thirds of the 150-member House.

The measure is set to mirror past proposals that would have given judges the option to deny bail in a wider array of violent offenses. But the Houses lead negotiator said that for some cases, the measure could go even further by requiring judges to withhold bail, rather than giving them discretion to do so.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Under the state Constitution, defendants  who are legally presumed innocent  are largely guaranteed the right to pretrial release, except in limited circumstances, such as when charged with capital murder.

Automatically denying bail is a new proposal that has not appeared in any legislative drafts this session. It was a recent demand of Abbotts, who abruptly called for the more far-reaching standard during his Houston stop last week.

Even with the stiffer policy on the table, lead negotiators on bail from both chambers expressed optimism about reaching an agreement that could win enough support to clear the House.

Were close to an agreement, Rep. John Smithee, R-Amarillo and chair of the House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee, said in an interview Tuesday, adding that he was hopeful the package would move through his panel this week with less than a month of session left. Weve made a lot of progress. Weve narrowed a lot of the issues down.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sen. Joan Huffman, R-Houston and the longtime sponsor of bail-related legislation in the upper chamber, said in a statement Monday that she was optimistic one of the measures would soon advance to the House floor for a record vote. Huffmans bail amendments have routinely breezed through the Senate with bipartisan support, most recently passing the chamber on a 28-2 vote earlier this year.

At least some House Democrats are cautiously on board, though the situation remained fluid as of Tuesday afternoon without a compromise proposal for lawmakers to scour. Rep. Gene Wu, D-Houston and chair of the House Democratic Caucus, told The Texas Tribune Tuesday that he anticipated reaching a reasonable agreement lacking the most extreme proposals.

Its something our communities have been asking for for a while, Wu said. Im expecting an agreement that probably the bulk of the body will vote for.

The proposals momentum in the House this session reflects a yearslong shift in Texas away from efforts to curtail mass incarceration, reduce wealth-based detention and keep nonviolent offenders out of jail. Instead, under Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, state leaders have swerved toward a tough-on-crime approach to legislating, including through bills that would likely grow the states incarcerated population, increase penalties for various crimes and exempt police from deadly conduct charges. And while they have failed to amend the Constitutions bail provisions, GOP lawmakers have approved more modest changes restricting access to cashless personal bonds, needing only majority support to send the legislation to Abbotts desk.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As recently as 2021, a constitutional amendment tightening the states bail laws  similar to this sessions measure  won the requisite 100 votes in the House, but died as a casualty of a Democratic walkout over a voting bill.

Theres some added pressure on the Democrats to get it done, just simply because this is a really big problem, and its a bipartisan issue, said Nikki Pressley, Texas state director of Right on Crime at the Texas Public Policy Foundation. People feel unsafe, and were seeing stories all the time, over and over, of people getting out on bond and then seriously hurting someone.

When the bail provisions died in 2021, Abbott called a special session. This time, Patrick has said he would force a special session if the Legislature failed to agree on bail measures.

If these bills do not pass the House, I see no reason for us not to go to a special session and another special session and another special session, Patrick said in February and again in March. We will not leave here until these bills pass the House, period. If it takes two years, well keep coming back.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is unclear whether Abbotts proposal to require pretrial detention in some cases will make it into the final measure, though Huffman and Smithee both expressed support for it.

That proposal raised alarm among civil rights advocates, who called it an attack on liberty and the constitutional guarantee to due process. And it sparked accusations from Democrats that Abbott was moving the goalposts and looking to keep bail reform as a campaign issue ahead of the 2026 elections.

Obviously, he doesnt want us to solve the problem, Rep. Ann Johnson, D-Houston, said in an interview Tuesday, arguing that automatic denial of bail completely supersedes the judicial discretion needed in the courts. He wants to make this a divisional issue between Republicans and Democrats, and so hes demonizing my community around public safety.

In pushing for the bail provisions, Abbott has called out several Harris County Democrats by name, highlighting violent crimes in their districts allegedly committed by people out on bond. Johnson, the former chief human trafficking prosecutor in Harris County, introduced her own legislation to expand the cases in which judges could deny bail, proposing a narrower set of offenses than the GOP legislation, with many of the same violent charges. Her proposal also sets deadlines for when judges must deny bail and would allow defendants to appeal such orders to the Court of Criminal Appeals. The amendment has not received a committee hearing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

An Abbott spokesperson reiterated that the governor was pushing to automatically deny bail in certain cases to rein in activist judges setting weak bail.

Governor Abbott will work with the Legislature to require judges deny bail to criminals charged with capital murder and other heinous violent crimes, Abbott press secretary Andrew Mahaleris said in a statement Tuesday. Democrats must choose  support the safety of the citizens they represent, or the criminals who kill them.

What the bills would do

The Senate this session has approved four bills to keep criminal defendants accused of certain violent crimes behind bars while they await the resolution of their cases.

Bail is a legal mechanism used around the country to incentivize defendants who have not been convicted to appear at court hearings. Defendants can pay the full bail amount, which is refundable if they go to all their hearings, or they can pay a nonrefundable partial deposit to a bail bond company that fronts the full amount. Defendants who cannot afford to pay a deposit or their bail are often left detained for weeks or months.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The upper chambers main bail measure, Senate Joint Resolution 5, would amend the Texas Constitution to allow judges to deny bail under an expanded list of criminal charges, including murder, aggravated kidnapping, robbery or assault with a weapon.

Republican leaders, along with crime victims and their supporters, said the legislation is necessary to keep dangerous people behind bars before their trials. They pointed to numerous examples of defendants accused of violent crimes being released on bond and then committing new crimes, including a number of high-profile murder cases in Harris County.

In negotiations on the package, Democrats have sought to narrow the list of charges where judges could deny bail to avoid sweeping in defendants who arent a public safety threat or flight risk. They have also tried to include language that instructs judges to use the least restrictive means to secure public safety and ensure a defendant appears in court.

Under his push to automatically deny bail, Abbott would require defendants to prove to a judge that they are not a threat to public safety and will appear in court to get bail.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Judges have far too much discretion to set easy bail on dangerous criminals, he said at a news conference last week surrounded by the families of crime victims. This shifts the burden for repeat violent criminals to prove that they are not a danger to the community before they're released.

Smithee, the House Criminal Jurisprudence chair, said that Abbotts proposal was appropriate in certain cases, arguing that some judges were shirking their duty by letting dangerous defendants out on low and no bond. The ongoing discussions, he added, centered on defining the offenses that would qualify for automatic denial of bail.

Its certainly reserved for the most egregious offenses, including murder and human trafficking, he said. The bill really needs to do two things: One, it needs to give good judges the ability to do their job  in other words, to protect the public. And on the other hand, it needs to rein in some of the judges whove neglected to do that.

Chuck Cook, whose elderly mother, Rosalie Cook, was stabbed and killed by a man who had nearly 70 prior arrests and was out of jail on two cashless bonds, urged lawmakers to picture my mothers face and make a decision accordingly as they considered bail legislation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

My mom died a lonely, painful death, Cook said by Abbotts side last week. The system is supposed to be designed to protect the public and, most importantly, the most vulnerable. The system failed my mother.

Civil rights advocates slammed both Abbotts proposal and the existing legislation, arguing that the measure would undermine defendants constitutional right to due process and swell the states already overcrowded jails without improving public safety.

Pretrial detention tears families apart, drains public resources and punishes people who havent been convicted of anything, Nick Hudson, senior manager of policy and advocacy at the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas, said, noting studies finding that pretrial detention is associated with an increased likelihood of later committing a crime. All Texans should be worried about an attack on their right to be free before trial. Anybody can be accused of an offense.

Hudson also criticized Abbotts proposal for automatic denial of bail, which he said just totally inverts the basic idea of innocent until proven guilty.

Kirsten Budwine, an attorney at the Texas Civil Rights Project, argued that the legislation would make Texans less safe by destabilizing the lives of legally innocent people. She cited the 1987 U.S. Supreme Court ruling stating that liberty is the norm, and detention prior to trial or without trial is the carefully limited exception.

This bail package blatantly disregards that by doing the opposite  making pretrial detention the norm and liberty the exception, she said, noting the stories of people who spent months in pretrial detention for crimes they did not commit. People spend days, months and even years in jail just for the prosecutor to drop the case. But at that point, the harm has already been done.

Smithee said it is a balancing act to craft a constitutional amendment that can satisfy the push to crack down on bail practices without going so far as to alienate Democrats and Republicans alike. The forthcoming package, he said, operates within those confines.

Disclosure: Texas Public Policy Foundation 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.

First round of TribFest speakers announced! Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Maureen Dowd; U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-San Antonio; Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker; U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff, D-California; and U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Dallas are taking the stage Nov. 1315 in Austin. Get your tickets today!
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  Bakersfield was rocked in the spring of 2018 when over the course of 34 days, a young man and woman went missing while another man was murdered. The investigations showed that what initially looked like random acts turned out to be connected.

Mysteries behind the events are being re-examined in a three-part miniseries  The Bakersfield 3: A Tale of Murder and Motherhood  that will be broadcast starting at 8 p.m. May 11 on the cable channel Investigation Discovery (ID) and the streaming service Max.

Olivia LaVoice was a member of the KGET, Channel 17, news team at that time and much of her reporting is featured in the new three-part offering. She recalls thinking numerous times while covering the story that truth is stranger than fiction.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

New documentary The Bakersfield Three to premiere on Investigation Discovery

LaVoice says, There were definitely moments where I thought How much more can happen? It just keeps getting crazier and there are so many layers.

Some of those layers were uncovered by the mothers of the victims who unearthed a string of coincidences that led them to the realization that these three cases were entangled with one another. After Di Byrnes son, James, was killed, her determination to find answers led her to Cheryl Holsonbake, whose son Micah had disappeared within days of Jamess murder. As the two joined forces looking for answers, they discovered another mother in the community, Jane Parrent, who was frantically searching for her missing daughter, Baylee.

Each of their children vanished under mysterious circumstances, leaving behind a trail of unanswered questions, unimaginable grief, and one mysterious connection to unravel: they all knew each other. The three mothers banded together and dubbed their childrens death and disappearances as The Bakersfield 3.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cases with this many twists and turns often unfold in major cities. LaVoice knows how rare it is for a reporter in a smaller television market to be able to cover a story for such an extended period of time.

A lot of times, unfortunately, cases after that initial story, there is not that much information to follow up on, LaVoice says. What was so different about the Bakersfield 3 was that it was almost like there was too much information.

I had many times as the reporter where I felt overwhelmed by the amount of leads that were coming in both to me directly and to the moms. Then there was the volume of information the moms were uncovering themselves.

Biggest Poker Face mystery easy to solve

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The fact the three mothers were so diligent in their efforts was a very different situation for LaVoice. The general practice on a story where there is a major crime is that family members will ask the media to investigate. All three of the moms were determined to keep the story in the news, but they were going to do the investigation themselves.

LaVoice is happy that the Bakersfield 3 case continues to get attention. She stresses it is important for any situation where there are unanswered questions that the stories are not forgotten. Family members of the victims have made certain no one will forget the three young people.

This case was unique because we were looking at it through the lens of the connection between three people, LaVoice says. I have never witnessed family members do so much on their own; however the three moms are the first to say they never could have done this without each other.

After leaving Bakersfield, LaVoice has continued to work in television and as a podcaster, including one regarding the Bakersfield 3. The reporting she did on that story has stayed with her but that is not unusual because she feels a connection to all the stories she has reported.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The difference was LaVoice felt more of a connection to the three moms than any other work she has done. Thats why she has always felt a connection to the people involved and an obligation to stick with the case until all the mysteries have been unraveled.

She also became a mom and that gave her a different viewpoint to look at the story. While she was covering the story, she thought about it from the perspective of how hard her own mother would seek the truth should something happen to her.

Now she looks at it from a mothers point of view.

Never miss a story: Make KGET.com your homepage

Having had a baby recently it is almost like too emotional for me to take a step back now and take a look at the case through the lens of a mother, LaVoice says. Now that I do have my baby it is almost too heavy for me.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It makes a huge difference in how I look at the case now and it is much more emotional for me now.

Investigation Discovery (ID) is the leading true crime network on television delivering programming to more than 66 million U.S. households.

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 KGET 17 News.
A 13-year veteran with the Bakersfield Police Department was arrested on suspicion of trying to coerce a teenage girl to send him explicit material over Instagram and possessing obscene material depicting a minor, according to authorities.

Marc Lugo, 35, was arrested Monday by the Kern County Sheriffs Office, in cooperation with the U.S. Secret Service and Homeland Security Investigations.

The investigation began when detectives with the Sheriff's Office Special Victims Unit served a search warrant in Bakersfield based on a tip about a person who was in possession and used obscene material involving an underage girl, authorities announced in a news release on Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The tip investigators received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children said that an Instagram user had exchanged explicit messages with a 15-year-old girl from South Carolina.

The account was allegedly linked to Lugo, authorities said, and records obtained from Instagram showed that he had encouraged the girl to send him explicit material.

Read more: Girl was kidnapped by man who messaged her on Roblox, officials say. 10-year-old found safe

Lugo was booked into jail accused of multiple charges, including contacting a minor with intent to commit a sexual offense; possession of obscene material depicting a minor; and use or possession of obscene sexual material involving a minor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Bakersfield district attorney's office said they have not yet received the case from investigators.

The Bakersfield Police Department said Lugo was placed on administrative leave following the arrest.

"The allegations against Detective Lugo are deeply disturbing and do not reflect the values of our department or the expectations of our community," the department said in a statement. "We are a department that takes great pride in our professionalism and honorable service to our community. The trust our community places in us remains at the core of who we are  and that has not changed."

The department said they will cooperate with Kern County Sheriff's Office in their investigation and have begun an administrative review at the Bakersfield Police Department.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He was released from custody after posting bail on Monday, according to authorities.

The case remains under investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Kern County Sheriff's Office at (661) 861-3110.

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.
WARREN, Ohio (WKBN)  A Warren voter is calling for change after she and others werent given the ballots they wanted and were told it cant be fixed.

Read next: Election results

MaryJoe Moore is upset. Her feelings stem from what happened when she went to vote at the New Jerusalem Fellowship Church around 9 a.m. Tuesday.

Basically, I just lost my vote, she said. I received only a single ballot on one issue.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Moore says she questioned poll workers about it, since she lives in the City of Warren, where there are contested races on the Democratic ballot for Council President and City Council at Large.

I want to be able to vote for who I want, Moore said. Some of these elections, the way they go anymore, is like you can lose an election by a few votes.

Trumbull County Board of Elections Director Stephanie Penrose says poll workers in one precinct made a mistake, and she doesnt know how many voters were affected.

Some people who requested Democratic ballots in the city of Warren were given an issues-only ballot instead of the proper Democratic ballot, Penrose said. In an election this slow, Im hoping it was very few people. I cant go back and change it. All I can say is it has been rectified  everybody is getting the ballot they want.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Unfortunately for Moore, her ballot had already been scanned.

Once you cast your ballot, you cannot take it back, so there is no resolution to the problem, Penrose said.

Basically, I kind of feel like they stole my vote, and I just want it fixed, Moore said.

Moore said she understands mistakes happen, but shed like to see some sort of change.

This was simply a mistake on their part, and I think you should be able to remedy that, Moore said.

Penrose said the Board of Elections will be looking into what happened.

Obviously, this needs to be looked into further and whether those people will ever work again, Penrose said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Foreign state guests travelling to Russia for Thursday's World War II commemorations will not be able to fly over the Baltic states of Estonia and Lithuania, the two countries said on Wednesday.

The two NATO nations, who are also EU members, have closed their airspace to heads of state and government travelling for Moscow's "Victory Day" celebrations on Friday, Russia's holiday commemorating the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany.

According to media reports, Latvia, the third Baltic state, has also banned overflights to and from Moscow.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The use of Estonian airspace to go to Moscow for the 9 May parade is out of the question and Estonia does not intend to support the event in any way," Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said in Tallinn.

Estonia has already denied overflight permission to Cuban and Brazilian planes carrying high-ranking officials.

Lithuania has also refused overflight permission to two government planes. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda confirmed in Vilnius that Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico were denied permission to cross Lithuanian airspace. He justified the decision with security concerns.

According to Serbian media reports, Latvia has taken similar action, though there was no immediate confirmation from Riga.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accused the two countries of restricting the sovereignty of states in their foreign policy. She described the refusal as another outrageous case.

Only two European guests

Vucic and Fico are the only European heads of state and government planning to attend Friday's celebrations in Moscow. According to media reports, the Serbian president is already en route to Russia via an alternative flight route, having made a stopover in the Azerbaijani capital, Baku, before continuing to Moscow.

Fico, on the other hand, is expected to travel on Thursday, according to information from Bratislava.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During World War II, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania were alternately occupied by the Soviet Union and Germany. After the war, they remained forcibly incorporated into the Soviet Union until 1991.

For most Estonians, Latvians and Lithuanians, May 9 is not seen as a day of victory over Nazi Germany but as the beginning of renewed occupation of their homelands by the Soviet Union.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, has signed a decree outlining additional measures for supplying industrial parks with electricity generated from renewable energy sources, Trend reports.

Under the decree, the Cabinet of Ministers of Azerbaijan is tasked with ensuring that the country's energy balance includes the allocation of electricity to industrial parks in line with their total demand. This includes electricity generated from renewable energy sources at a guaranteed tariff. The decree also instructs the Cabinet to address other related issues.

Industrial park management organizations, established by the state, are responsible for supplying these parks with electricity from renewable sources. This will be done in accordance with agreements made with both resident and non-resident entities, and in compliance with the stipulations outlined in Article 19.3 of the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan "On Electric Power."

In line with the decree, state-owned entities "Azerenergy" and "Azerishig" are required to facilitate the necessary contracts for electricity supply through the transmission and distribution networks.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
By Lawrence White and Sinead Cruise

LONDON (Reuters) - Barclays faced ill-tempered questions from investors about its share price performance and branch closures at its annual meeting on Wednesday, which also drew fresh protests from activists opposed to its alleged provision of financial services to Israeli defence firms.

Dozens of protesters gathered outside the event in Westminster, central London, waving Palestinian flags and holding banners that accused Barclays of "arming Israel" and "banking on genocide".

Protesters also interrupted chairman Nigel Higgins as he tried to get the meeting underway. "Barclays is a primary dealer in Israel government bonds", a protester standing on a chair shouted before being carried out by security staff.

Several others joined in, waving Palestinian flags and shouting Free Palestine. "You can all go", Higgins said, as the group was removed from the room.

Barclays has faced heavy criticism for its alleged relationships with defence firms that produce equipment used by the Israeli Defence Force.

Dozens of its branches have been defaced and vandalised by pro-Palestine activists in recent years and customers have been urged to boycott the bank.

Barclays has repeatedly said its role as a lender is to provide financial services to defence companies, including U.S., UK and European firms supplying products to NATO and other allies.

One shareholder took the opportunity to tell Higgins that the views expressed by the protesters were "not necessarily shared by all of us".

The bank has said it does not invest its own money in companies that supply weapons used by Israel in Gaza, and it only trades shares in such companies on behalf of clients.

Israel's ground and air campaign in Gaza - which has killed more than 52,000 Palestinians, according to local health authorities - was triggered by Hamas' 2023 attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli tallies.

BRANCHES

Chief Executive C.S. Venkatakrishnan said Barclays had no plans to announce further branch closures this year or next, in response to a question on its shrinking high street presence.

The bank also fielded questions on its approach to net zero goals, deforestation and financing of carbon-intensive energy production and supply.

Higgins said the bank finances fracking in the United States but was not prepared to invest in the creation of a new fracking industry in Britain.

Another investor called for changes to dividends in place of share buybacks, which he claimed had done little to support retail shareholder confidence in the bank.
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  Two fire departments responded to a blaze at a home in the 400 block of Highland Park Drive around 3:10 p.m. Tuesday, May 6.

The Baton Rouge Fire Department said they believe the fire was caused by lightning. Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy smoke from the carport and went to work putting it out. BRFD said a fire was found in the attic and a small storage room.

It took around 45 minutes for firefighters to get the blaze under control with the help of 10 total units, five pumpers and one ladder.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The one resident of the home was not there at the time of the fire. Neighbors said they heard thunder before the fire started.

The home sustained smoke and water damage along with $75,000 in damages.

EMS, Entergy and the Red Cross assisted at the scene.

Tired of your smoke alarm going off when you cook, smoke? New options might be better for your home

Latest News

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 Louisiana First News.
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  One person was arrested in connection with a deadly shooting in Baker over the weekend.

Steven Berthelot, 44, of Baton Rouge, was charged with one count of second-degree murder and one count of attempted second-degree murder.

The shooting happened in the 6100 block of Rolling Acres Drive and took the life of Gad Davis, 27.

Davis was found in a bedroom and pronounced dead at the scene. Berthelot was taken to the hospital with serious injuries.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Deputies with the East Baton Rouge Sheriffs Office (EBRSO) were able to get a search warrant and look inside the home.

Investigators found two guns, multiple shell casings, and bullet impact marks in the bedroom.

2 injured in separate shootings only hours apart in Baton Rouge, officials say

EBRSO learned during the investigation that the incident started with an argument between Davis mother and Berthelot. At some point, Berthelot got a gun out of a closet but was disarmed by Davis and others.

He then went into the closet again and got another gun. A shootout unfolded. Davis was killed. According to an arrest report, a second victim, who survived the shooting and was not hurt, shot Berthelot. The second victim told law enforcement they were also shot at by Berthelot during the exchange.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The East Baton Rouge Parish Coroners Office was called to the scene.

Berthelot was booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on Tuesday, May 6.

Latest 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 Louisiana First News.
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  A Baton Rouge man has pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including human trafficking and possession of child pornography, after two 16-year-olds were found in his car following a hit-and-run crash.

According to court records, Chad Armstead, 31, changed his plea from not guilty to guilty for the human trafficking charge.

Armstead was sentenced to 10 years in prison, with five years suspended, followed by three years of supervised probation. He must register as a sex offender for 25 years and pay $65 per month for supervision.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Another charge, indecent behavior with a juvenile, was dismissed by the state, and he was released from his bond obligation on that charge.

Court records revealed he also pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography. He was sentenced to 20 years, with 15 years suspended. He also received three years of supervised probation, must register as a sex offender for 25 years, and pay the monthly supervision fee.

Another pornography charge was also dismissed.

Armstead was informed of his right to appeal the conviction or sentence within 30 days, and his right to post-conviction relief within two years.

Teens ran away from DCFS, found after crashing Armsteads car

In 2023, two teenage victims ran away from the Louisiana Department of Childen and Family Services (DCFS) and were staying with Armstead. On Feb. 27, the victims reportedly took Armsteads vehicle when he stepped out and got into a crash hours later.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After the hit-and-run, they were followed by the other driver involved in the crash to Cortana Place, where Baton Rouge police officers responded. The victims told officers they were working for Armstead.

One victim said she met Armstead through social media two months before, after her friend pretended to be her online. She said Armstead took photos of her and posted them on sex advertisement websites, according to arrest documents. She told investigators she was forced to have sex with multiple men.

The affidavit said that Armstead forced both underage victims to take pictures in the shower. They also traveled to various hotels in Baton Rouge to have sex with men.

A DCFS caseworker gave investigators Instagram messages between the two victims and Armstead, documents said. Investigators reportedly found nude images of the victims uploaded to a website.

Latest News

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 Louisiana First News.
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB)  Bay County officials are getting more involved in the situation at Gulf World Marine Park.

The marine attraction declared reorganization bankruptcy earlier this year, among reports of dead dolphins, and other sea creatures living in deplorable conditions.

Tuesday, Bay County commissioners confirmed that Gulf Worlds sea lions were transferred to another facility. Commissioner Clair Pease called it a positive step.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She also said she and the county attorney have been in contact with the debtor who owns Gulf World, offering help to clean the animal tanks.

Theyve connected the debtor with resources to repair or improve the water pumps and sand filters, and provided a survey for a pipe that moves water from the Gulf into the facility.

Pease said the goal is to help the animals locally while remaining engaged in the international bankruptcy case.

I had asked the county attorney to stay engaged with the bankruptcy attorneys so that we could really keep up with the animal welfare more than the actual bankruptcy. And I felt like if we engaged an attorney to look over the bankruptcy court, then if something happened with the animals here in Panama City that we felt like needed some additional attention, then we would have an ear with the judge, County Commissioner Clair Pease said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pease said they plan to hire a bankruptcy attorney based in Delaware to follow the case. They should sign the agreement in a few days.

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 mypanhandle.com.
WARREN, Ohio (WKBN)  A Bazetta man received his sentence Wednesday in a local road rage case.

Read next: Ruling made on cause of missing Warren mans death

Brett Budd was sentenced to three years of basic probation, starting with 90 days in the Trumbull County Jail, according to the Trumbull County Prosecutors Office. He was also given two 180-day suspended jail sentences and can no longer own firearms. As part of his sentence, he must take an anger management course and forfeit his AR-15 and Springfield Hellcat pistol.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Budd pleaded guilty in January to an amended indictment charging him with two counts of misdemeanor assault and felony discharge of a firearm on or near prohibited premises.

The change in plea came two days after he was supposed to stand trial for a second time. Budds first trial ended in a hung jury.

He was charged following the incident in February 2024. Prosecutors say Budd drove a vehicle into the back of the victims vehicle and took off.

The victims then followed Budd to his home, where they confronted him.

Prosecutors say Budd fired a gun from his home, hurting one of the victims.

Nadine Grimley contributed to this report.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Sooo, Prince Harry recently sat down with the BBC in the aftermath of losing a legal challenge pertaining to his UK security. And it's fair to say the interview was explosivewith Harry suggesting that the ruling was a "good old-fashioned establishment stitch-up."

Now, the BBC has admitted to "a lapse in our usual high editorial standards" due toper The Guardianfailing to "include responses from the Home Office and Buckingham Palace to allegations made by the duke" in its Saturday coverage of the Friday interview.

The broadcaster posted this statement to their Corrections and Clarifications page:

"The programme covered the latest developments in the story of Prince Harry and his legal case around protection for him and his family in the UK and interviewed former close protection officer Richard Aitch to get a broader understanding of security considerations. Claims were repeated that the process had been an establishment stitch-up and we failed to properly challenge this and other allegations. This case is ultimately the responsibility of the Home Office and we should have reflected their statement."

The Home Office's statement was then included, and the BBC went on to say that they should have "given the view of Buckingham Palace" which was "All of these issues have been examined repeatedly and meticulously by the courts, with the same conclusion reached on each occasion."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The BBC concluded their comments with "This was a lapse in our usual high editorial standards."

Welp. This has been a somewhat dramatic update to an already dramatic situation!

You Might Also Like
TALLINN, Estonia (AP)  Belarus' authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko on Wednesday announced the granting of pardons to 42 imprisoned opposition activists, in what analysts say is an effort at rapprochement with the West.

Belarus was rocked by unprecedented mass protests in 2020, after a disputed election that handed Lukashenko his sixth consecutive term in office. Authorities unleashed a violent crackdown on demonstrators and government critics. More than 65,000 people were arrested by the authorities, according to human rights advocates, and hundreds of thousands fled the country, fearing prosecution.

The United States and the European Union responded with a flurry of crippling sanctions, pushing the country further into the orbit of its powerful neighbor Russia. Belarus depends on Russia for loans and cheap energy, and Lukashenko supported Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Since last year, however, the Belarusian leader has been regularly pardoning small numbers of imprisoned government critics in what analysts saw as a signal that Minsk was seeking to ease tensions with the West.

Between July 2024 and January 2025, Lukashenko pardoned 258 political prisoners. After Donald Trump was sworn into office, he also pardoned three jailed Americans, including Yuras Zyankovich, who was accused of plotting a coup.

Zyankovich was released last week in what political analyst Valery Karbalevich sees as a present for Trump's 100 days in office. Right now the Belarusian leader hopes to unfreeze relations with the U.S. first and foremost, in order to ease Western sanctions, Karbalevich said.

He tied the new wave of pardons to Minsk's desire to start the dialogue with the West.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to Viasna, Belarus' oldest and most prominent rights group, there are currently 1,177 political prisoners behind bars in the country, including the group's founder Ales Bialiatski, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2022. At least six political prisoners died behind bars.

Lukashenko said Wednesday the new pardons were granted to mark the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.

A total of 14 of the pardoned activists suffer from chronic health conditions and disabilities, 10 are over the age of 50, according to the authorities. All 42 activists, convicted on the charges of extremism, admitted guilt and repented, officials said.

Lukashenko on Wednesday also announced a sweeping amnesty for 8,000 people convicted on criminal charges. Most political prisoners, however, will not be eligible for it, according to Pavel Sapelka, a rights activist with Viasna.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Belarusian rights advocates have given the authorities a list of 202 political prisoners that need urgent medical care and should be released, including 28 people in critical condition. Sapelka said the authorities are creating torturous conditions for political prisoners, depriving them of medical care, care packages and the possibility to talk to their lawyers or families.

Lukashenko makes humanitarian gestures, trying to get the Wests attention, and it gives hope that as many political prisoners as possible could be released, Sapelka added.

Belarusian opposition leader in exile Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya welcomed the news of the new pardons, but stressed that we shouldn't rest until all (political prisoners) will be freed.
Opposition to CBS News parent Paramount potentially opting to settle a $20 billion lawsuit from President Donald Trump is growing, with Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont) warning the network that doing so will embolden the government to continue targeting the press.

In the letter sent to controlling shareholder Shari Redstone on Tuesday, Sanders nods to chatter that Paramount may reach a deal to resolve the case for up to $75 million.

More from The Hollywood Reporter

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rewarding Trump with tens of millions of dollars for filing this bogus lawsuit will not cause him to back down on his war against the media and a free press, the senator writes. It will only embolden him to shakedown, extort and silence CBS and other media outlets that have the courage to report about issues that Trump may not like.

Last week, lawyers for both sides sat down to discuss a possible settlement. For Paramount, incentives to dispose of the case are high. A deal may open up a pathway for regulatory approval of its pending merger with Skydance. Its believed that Redstone supports this avenue.

By most legal observers thinking, the lawsuit is destined for dismissal because of industry-wide norms related to editing interviews. Trump pursues a novel theory revolving around arguments that CBS News editing of a 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris during the 2024 presidential campaign constitutes a violation of Texas consumer protection law covering deceptive advertising and unfair competition.

In March, Paramount moved to dismiss the case under arguments that its editorial judgments are constitutionally protected free speech. It also challenged Trumps filing of the lawsuit in a federal court in Texas, which has become a hot spot for legal battles advancing conservative legal causes. CBS is incorporated in New York, but Trumps legal team chose to sue in the Northern District of Texas, prompting concerns that hes cherry-picking judges by filing the complaint at a court where a sympathetic judge is likely to oversee the case.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This lawsuit is an affront to the First Amendment and is without basis in law or fact, wrote Thomas Riney, a lawyer for CBS, in the dismissal bid. Trump seeks to punish a news organization for constitutionally protected editorial judgments they do not like.

On this point, Sanders, who was joined by eight senators, writes, We, and most legal experts who have reviewed this case, could not agree more. This lawsuit is an attack on the United States Constitution and the First Amendment. It has absolutely no merit and it cannot stand.

The letter warns of escalating efforts to chill free speech if Paramount were to settle the lawsuit, pointing to the administrations intimidation of the media and those who speak out against Trump.

Stand up for freedom of the press and our democracy, Sanders writes. Do not capitulate to this dangerous move to authoritarianism.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

CBS News isnt the only outlet thats been targeted. Last month, FCC chair Brendan Carr urged the agencys enforcement arm to open an investigation into Disney and ABC for allegedly maintaining discriminatory policies through racial quotas, among other things.

Amid settlement discussions, Trump continues to criticize the network.

The case we have against 60 Minutes, CBS, and Paramount is a true WINNER, he wrote on Truth Social last week. They cheated and defrauded the American People at levels never seen before in the Political Arena.

Sanders was joined by Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.).

Best of The Hollywood Reporter

Sign up for THR's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent wouldnt say Wednesday which nations the U.S. could strike trade deals with as soon as this week when pressed during testimony.

Rep. Nydia Velazquez (D-N.Y.) pressed Bessent as he testified before the House Financial Services Committee about his recent remarks indicating the U.S. could announce trade deals with some partners as soon as this week.

So tell us, tell the American people, tell small businesses and consumers, tell retirees specifically, which countries are you close to striking deals with? Velazquez asked Bessent during the hearing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bessent insisted that doing so would not benefit the United States and that it would be detrimental to the interest of the United States for me to answer that question.

Bessent said answering the question could compromise ongoing negotiations, noting that talks may still be in process.

Im happy to say there are negotiations going on. Im not going to reveal the details, he said.

Velazquez then asked Bessent how long he thinks the negotiations will take before they are concluded.

Bessent reiterated comments he made previously about there being 18 important trading partners and that the administration is moving forward at all deliberate speed with those. He also said he considered some of the negotiations to be quite advanced.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I believe that they will be the agreements in principle, and then we will paper them over in the coming months, but once we reach an agreement that I am sure that the other countries will live up to, he said.

Bessent also said he and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer are set to meet with Chinese officials in Switzerland later this week to begin negotiations amid an ongoing trade war between both nations.

I will be going to Switzerland, and the negotiations will begin on Saturday, he 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 The Hill.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. Foreign Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov, met with President of the Republic of Iraq, Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid, in Baghdad, Trend reports.

The meeting, held during Bayramov's official visit to Baghdad, emphasized the growing diplomatic interaction between the two countries.

Both sides expressed satisfaction with the current state of Azerbaijan-Iraq relations and emphasized opportunities to expand collaboration in areas such as trade, investment, energy, tourism, and other sectors of shared interest.

Bayramov and Rashid also addressed the importance of advancing joint efforts within multilateral frameworks, including the United Nations (UN), the Non-Aligned Movement, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA).

Azerbaijani minister briefed the Iraqi president on Azerbaijans post-conflict recovery efforts and its ongoing peace agenda.

The officials reaffirmed their commitment to deepening a partnership based on mutual respect and common values.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Jack Castelli had it all figured out.

The University of Washington doctoral student had spent the past three years developing new gene-editing techniques that could spur immunity to the virus that causes AIDS. Early testing in mice showed promising results. His research group hoped it could develop into a treatment, or even a cure, for HIV.

Castelli, who is Canadian, saw two career paths after his graduation this spring: He could join a U.S. biotech company, or he could find a postdoctoral position at a U.S. university or research laboratory.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is where the money is at and where all the clinical trials are happening, Castelli said, making the U.S. the only place in my mind I could push that forward.

Then the Trump administrations science cuts hit.

And so, on a rainy late April day in Seattle, Castelli stood at a lectern before his friends and family and defended his doctoral thesis  about using stem cells to express antibodies against HIV  with his scientific life at a crossroads.

Should he join a lab in his native Canada? Accept recruiting calls to a European university? A Chinese biotech company? They were all possibilities now, and his U.S. visa is likely to expire in a few months time.

Nick Chavkin, an assistant professor in the pediatrics department at UW Medicine, speaks out against cuts to NIH funding at a Feb. 19 rally in Seattle. Castelli, a doctoral student at UW, holds a sign decrying the cuts in the background. (Evan Bush / NBC News)

I have a personal interest in Jack getting the best opportunity for himself, and as much as Id love to say the U.S. is the place, I cant necessarily say that right now, said Jennifer Adair, who was Castellis principal investigator at the Fred Hutch Cancer Center, a partner institute to the university.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Castelli speaks three languages fluently and completed two internships while earning his doctoral degree. He is a generous colleague and an exceptional scientist, Adair said.

But his uncertain future is hardly unique. The Trump administrations slowdown in science funding  which stalled thousands of grants at the National Institutes of Health and National Science Foundation, among other organizations  has left U.S.-based scientists and researchers scrambling to find homes for promising work that could lead to medical treatments and cures. Now many are looking abroad. As of May, Castelli had not made a decision on whether hell stay in the U.S.

The slowdown has forced the University of Washington, a top public university for biomedical research, to implement a hiring freeze, travel restrictions, class size reductions and furloughs. Some departments are pushing students to graduate sooner than expected. In a court filing, a university representative said it funds about 3,000 researchers through NIH grants.

Interviews with more than 20 graduate students, faculty members and university administrators at UW describe a research hub thrown into chaos. Other institutions have made similarly drastic moves, according to court filings in lawsuits that aim to thwart the cuts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Many of those interviewed said a generation of scientists  and the innovations their research would bring  could be decimated.

A sign at the March 7 Stand Up for Science rally held at Seattle Center, a public gathering space near downtown. (Stephanie Ryder)

Really talented people are not able to get jobs; other really talented people are able to get jobs, but theyre choosing not to take them because of the craziness, said David Baker, a professor of biochemistry at the University of Washington School of Medicine, who won the Nobel Prize in 2024 for protein research. Why would you stay in a country where theres not really an obvious commitment to science, when you could go somewhere else and be better funded and not worry about what you can read in the news or what email youre going to get?

In an April 14 court filing, the universitys vice provost for research, Mari Ostendorf, said the campus mood had dimmed.

Faculty and staff dont know if their funding will be cut, if their research will be terminated, whether they will be able to attend conferences, or even whether they will continue to have jobs, Ostendorf wrote. Funding gaps have forced researchers to abandon studies, miss deadlines, or lose key personnel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A spokesperson for the National Institutes of Health declined to comment.

And there may be even more funding lost in the future due to Trump administration decisions. After a protest at the University of Washington campus Monday over the war in the Gaza Strip, the Department of Health and Human Services, which oversees NIH, announced that it was part of a task force reviewing UWs response to the demonstration.

About 30 people were arrested after occupying a campus building Monday, according to the university, which condemned the protest in a statement and described it as dangerous and violent.

The Trump administration previously canceled federal grants at Columbia University during a similar review and has said Harvard University will receive no new grants until it makes a series of reforms, including changes to policies about protests and antisemitism.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Although the review was only announced Tuesday, the administrations Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism said in a news release that the university must do more to deter future violence and guarantee that Jewish students have a safe and productive learning environment, adding that it expected UW to follow up with enforcement actions and policy changes.

A university science laboratory operates like a small factory where workers are churning out ideas, research and data, rather than furniture or light bulbs. Traditionally, these labs primary customers are federal science agencies, like NIH or NSF.

Think of a labs principal investigator as akin to a company president. In the grant process, they must convince the government or private funders to buy their product  unique research  and then pay graduate students in wages and tuition.

Seattle's science community held the Stand Up for Science rally at Seattle Center, the location of the Space Needle. (Stephanie Ryder)

Im like a small-business owner, said Adair, who recently left Seattle to serve as a professor and associate director at the UMass Chan Medical Schools gene therapy center. I have to pay myself. I have to pay my staff. I have to find the money to do the research.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the first few months of 2025, funding for NIH grants has lagged the year prior by at least $2.3 billion, according to STAT News. NIH has also canceled grant applications as it targets politically disfavored topics like infectious diseases, according to critics.

That funding slowdown has forced many principal investigators to reduce their labs size.

Weve had to make personnel cuts, said Alex Greninger, a professor of laboratory medicine at UW Medicine, adding that he had been forced to rescind a job offer to a postdoctoral researcher from China who had been doing research in his lab for nearly three years.

It cost the researcher her visa, he said. Another member of his lab left to take a job at a Chinese gene synthesis firm. Several have seen placements rescinded at other institutions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is the first year where people didnt get into graduate school, Greninger said, about technicians in his lab who have completed undergraduate degrees, adding that they had done everything right.

Dr. Anna Wald, the head of allergy and infectious diseases at UW Medicine, said several principal investigators in her department cut part of their own salaries to keep their staffers on.

Meanwhile, Adair paid out of her own pocket to send students to conferences that could advance their careers.

The uncertainty has also simply wasted time, some said.

Everybody is spending a lot of time dealing with changes in how the university operates, said Jakob von Moltke, an associate professor of immunology at the University of Washington. Everything just functions less efficiently and theres less innovation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

With so many professors uncertain about funding, many first-year graduate students seeking a lab are struggling to find positions. At some UW departments, first-year graduate students often rotate between labs for several months before they select a home for the following four or five years.

A lot of people are scrambling to find a lab to settle into and a lot of faculty are unable to commit to taking students, or backing out of commitments, said Dustin Mullaney, a first-year doctoral student studying molecular and cellular biology.

Still, many first-years consider themselves lucky  at least they got in. Most UW departments have reduced upcoming graduate classes by 25%-50%, according to court filings in a case filed by 16 state attorneys general aiming to restore the flow of NIH funding.

I think we are going to lose most of a generation of scientists, said Henry Mangalapalli, a first-year doctoral student in the laboratory medicine department.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Meanwhile, doctoral students nearing graduation say theyre being recruited to move abroad.

Kristin Weinstein, a fourth-year doctoral student in the department of immunology working on autoimmune research, planned to graduate next year, find a postdoctoral research position at a U.S. university and eventually become a professor.

Kristin Weinstein, in immunology Ph.D. candidate at the University of Washington, speaks at the Stand Up for Science rally, for which she was a lead organizer. (Stephanie Ryder)

But now, faced with hiring freezes and shrinking labs, Weinstein said shes considering moving her family, including an infant son, out of the U.S. Before UWs austerity actions, Weinstein booked travel to Switzerland so she could present her research at the World Immune Regulation Meeting 2025, a key conference in her field.

What it turned into was a lot of informational interviewing, Weinstein said. I talked to faculty who are in Australia, faculty who are in Germany, faculty who are in Luxembourg and Denmark.  There was active recruiting happening.

Baker, the Nobel winner who directs the Institute for Protein Design, said that more than 15 of his graduate students and postdoctoral researchers were aiming for new roles overseas. Meanwhile, other students have seen their research upended.

Nelson Niu, a fourth-year doctoral student in mathematics, said he had planned to spend six years teaching students and completing his thesis, a timeline sanctioned by his department. But on March 11 he received an email from his department chair saying the policy had changed for fourth-year students because of new financial realities, and people like Niu were now only guaranteed five years of funding.

Jarring, Niu said of the notice; now hed have to pack two years of study into one.

Arjun Kumar, a third-year doctoral student studying why T cells lose their ability to fight off tumors, was working with National Cancer Institute researchers to potentially apply some of his research findings to a type of treatment pioneered there.

But Kumar said he lost weeks of time after the NIH placed a temporary communications freeze on federal researchers this winter.

Stephanie Ryder

They were already working on key experiments for us and they already had data they couldnt send us because they couldnt email us, Kumar said.

Later, Kumar learned the NCI researchers no longer had the bandwidth to help.

It was an exciting collaboration that was snuffed out in the moment, Kumar said.

Washington is one of 16 states suing the NIH and HHS over its slowdown in grant funding. A judge will hear arguments Thursday as the state attorneys general seek a preliminary injunction.

Meanwhile, the pressure on scientists to leave the U.S. is only increasing. On Monday, the European Union launched a drive to attract scientists to Europe, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a commitment of $566 million to attract U.S. talent and make Europe a magnet for researchers.

It has been really challenging to my identity as an American citizen to think about having to leave the country to pursue my career, Weinstein said. It feels like the American dream is dead.





CORRECTION (May 8, 2025, 1:55 p.m. ET): A previous version of this article misspelled the last name of a doctoral student in the University of Washingtons laboratory medicine department. He is Henry Mangalapalli, not Mangapalli.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP)  Mothers Day is Sunday, and you might be looking to spend time with your mom while dining at a local restaurant.

The National Retail Federation expects consumers to spend over $34 billion this year on mothers. Thats up from $33.5 billion in 2024. The most popular gifts continue to be flowers, greeting cards, special dinners, and brunches.

Emily Dickinson Museum unveils updated Carriage House Center

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Where can one go for brunch in western Massachusetts to celebrate Mothers Day? Yelp has put together a list of the best restaurants for brunch in western Massachusetts. Be sure to call ahead for reservations!

Top 10 best Mothers Day Brunches near western Massachusetts, according to Yelp

Topping the list with 3.4 stars and over 120 reviews is Storrowton Tavern & Carriage House in West Springfield. On their Facebook page, they are offering a Mothers Day Brunch Buffet at the Carriage House from 11 a.m. to 3 pm. Call 413-732-4188 for reservations.

The number two spot is The Boathouse in South Hadley, which features waterfront dining on the Connecticut River. They offer brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. This Mothers Day, they open earlier at 10 a.m. To reserve a table, call 413-536-2342.

Another favorite, the Lattitude Restaurant in West Springfield. They have been updating their look over the past couple of weeks, but are geared up to reopen on Thursday. On Mothers Day from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., a buffet brunch is available featuring burnt end brisket hash, eggs benny, a carving station, mini Desserts, bottomless mimosas, and more. Call 413-241-8888 for reservations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Storrowton Tavern & Carriage House in West Springfield The Boathouse in South Hadley Lattitude Restaurant in West Springfield Cals Wood-Fired Grill & Wine Bar in West Springfield Maxs Tavern in Springfield MGM Springfield Villa Napoletana in East Longmeadow Memos Restaurant & Catering in West Springfield Figaros Ristorante in Enfield, Conn. The Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke

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.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Editors Note: This is part four of four in a series. The other parts of the these series can be found at the bottom of this article.

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL)  Columbus Police leadership says the Real Time Crime Center is changing the way crimes are investigated and solved.

I think its a big part of policing in the future, says Lt. Andy Farmer of the Columbus Police Department.

Farmer oversees the departments Real Time Crime Center in the basement of the Public Safety Center. Farmer says the center is helping solve cases quicker, and with that comes a shift in the landscape of policing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We have seen over the last couple of years how its grown to help solve cases quicker, Farmer says. And I think thats only going to improve.

Analysts and officers work a bank of monitors with cameras placed across the city. They see in real time what the officers on the ground cannot see or what they did not see as they answered the emergency call.

While the crime center is a useful tool in solving cases, an internal gripe has arose: Why isnt this a 24/7 service like 911?

The center currently operates Monday thru Friday late into the evening, but not overnight. On weekends, officers are on call. But that is likely to change.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mathis will be retiring next year, and tells WRBL he is committed to having the center fully operational around the clock before he leaves.

We are at that point right now we need it 24-7, Mathis says. We dont have the personnel  the people who are trained to do it just yet. But we will be there.

The answer to the personnel question comes in the form of civilian analysts. People from outside the world of law enforcement whose sole job it is to sift through camera footage and provide assistance to officers.

Sgt. Adam Moyer, who is a veteran of the department, says the advantage to hiring civilians is simple: you cut down on training time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sometimes its easier to get a civilian employee versus a sworn employee, Moyer says. It takes a sworn employee weeks, months, years to get through training. And to utilize the civilians you can put them to work pretty quickly.

There is some debate within the department about how the Real Time Crime Center will impact on-the-street staffing.

The crime center has taken the policing in the fountain city and pulled it into the age of technology. With this advancement come change, and with the hiring of civilian analysts onto the team, the make-up of the police department has changed also.

It is always going to be a tag-team effort. But it is already replacing boots on the ground. 12 years ago they had 488 positions allotted for the police department. I am not down to where I am telling them at 400 police officers  boots on the ground  and the Real Time Crime Center and let me expand that and I dont need 400 officers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While the future of policing is changing, one thing was consistent when speaking to leadership at the Columbus Police Department: these civilian analysts want to help their communities.

Beyond the Beat continues in these articles:

Part 1: Columbus Real Time Crime Center at forefront of dramatic change in policing

Part 2: How civilians are changing the way police work is done

Part 3: Real Time Crime Center offers Columbus Police information that leads to arrests

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.
In his first interview since leaving the White House, Joe Biden accused President Trump of appeasing Russia over Ukraine. Well, Biden certainly knows all about appeasement. It was the hallmark of his presidency and accounts for much of the instability in Europe and the Middle East today.

Before Putin invaded, Biden sent the worst possible signal, seeming to suggest that a minor incursion might not be too big a deal. Then when the tanks rolled in he offered to evacuate the leader of the embattled country to safety. That would have been like Roosevelt flying Churchill out of Britain in 1940.

Zelenskys response was: The fight is here; I need ammunition, not a ride. He got some of the ammunition but never enough, despite Bidens claim in this interview that he had given Ukraine everything they needed to provide for their independence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In reality his administration gave Ukraine just enough to enable them to defend against Russia but far from sufficient to achieve much more than prolonging the bloodbath. Biden may have treated Zelensky nicely in the White House but every plea for battle-winning weapons was met by months of procrastination and delay. That included tanks, ATACMS long-range missiles and F16 combat planes, all of which, if delivered rapidly and in sufficient quantities, could have turned the tide.

Furthermore, every offensive weapon that was provided was grudgingly handed over with the caveat that it couldnt be used against targets on Russian soil, a restriction only partially eased late last year.

With Putin launching assault after assault from his side of the border, that really did force Ukraine to fight with one hand tied behind its back. And it was all down to appeasement and fear in the White House in the face of never-ending bombast from the Kremlin.

Biden rejected Trumps attacks on European Nato members freeloading on the US, fantastically claiming that it saves us money overall. If anything, Trumps bullying of Nato leaders into paying their dues will strengthen the alliance. Bidens record is the opposite, bringing Nato to a lower point than at any time since its creation after the Second World War.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It began with his catastrophic withdrawal from Afghanistan. Not only was that one of the worst military humiliations the US has ever known, it also resoundingly demonstrated Natos impotence. Despite efforts by Britain to persuade other alliance members to remain in place, there was not a single taker. And that display of weakness on both sides of the Atlantic encouraged Putin to launch his full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Today Nato is staring down the barrel of yet another defeat. Despite repeated public commitments to the defence of Ukraine, it has shown its powerlessness during three years of war as Russia continues to push forward on European soil.

Nor was Bidens appeasement confined to Europe. Right at the beginning of his presidency he cancelled Trumps terrorist designation of the Houthis in Yemen and sought to weaken Saudi Arabia, one of their main targets. That strengthened and encouraged the terrorist group and led to repeated attacks on Red Sea shipping, again met only by a feeble military response from Biden.

His approach towards the Houthis was part of the administrations wider efforts to appease Iran in a desperate and unsuccessful bid to return to Obamas disastrous JCPOA nuclear deal. Biden relieved sanctions on Iran and allowed the ayatollahs access to $16 billion of frozen assets. His policies contributed to Hamass October 7 invasion of Israel, part of an Iranian plan, and the wider war that followed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Biden warned that the Trump administration would cause Europe to lose confidence in the US. Perhaps it will, but his own administration has already gravely undermined trust among American allies around the world, under the calculating eyes of its enemies, not least President Xi in China.

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.
Former President Biden broke his silence on the Trump administration this week in his first interview since leaving the White House in January.

He sharply criticized President Trump for a variety of things, including foreign policy, his fiery meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his leadership of the GOP.

Biden also weighed in on his decision to suspend his campaign last year in the waning months of the presidential race.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Here are five takeaways from Bidens sit-down interview with BBC:

Biden on leaving the 2024 race earlier

BBC reporter Nick Robinson asked Biden if he left the 2024 race too late or if the former president believed he should have withdrawn earlier to give someone else more time to campaign.

I dont think it would have mattered, Biden said.

Biden highlighted that former Vice President Kamala Harris was a good candidate who was fully funded. He shared that his administration accomplished what it set out to do, and its agenda became so successful that it was difficult to walk away.

I meant what I said when I started that  Im prepared to hand this to the next generation, the transition government. But things moved so quickly that it made it difficult to walk away, Biden said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Robinson asked if the former president had any regrets about pulling out of the race. Biden said no and that he thought it was the right decision.

It was just a difficult decision, he said.

Robinson questioned if Biden thought he should have suspended his campaign earlier in the cycle.

I dont know how that would have made much difference, Biden replied.

Biden on Trump foreign policy: What the hells going on?

Biden sharply criticized Trumps foreign policy, including his apparent intent to acquire other countries, and argued it goes against Americas core principles.

The former president slammed Trump for his effort to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America, for his continued comments about acquiring Greenland or taking control of the Panama Canal, and for saying Canada should become the United States 51st state.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What the hells going on here? What president ever talks like that? Thats not who we are, Biden said. Were about freedom, democracy, opportunity, not about confiscation.

During his time in office, Biden focused on strengthening foreign alliances and has been a defender of NATO. He said its a grave concern that the alliance would die out and said he thinks it would change the modern history of the world.

Biden on Ukraine: Modern-day appeasement

Biden also criticized Trumps approach to ending the war between Russia and Ukraine as modern-day appeasement.

Trump has sought to end the war since taking office, but its proven to be a more difficult task than he suggested it would be during his campaign. Ukraine and the U.S. recently signed a long-awaited mineral deal, but Trump has grown frustrated with Russia as negotiations drag on.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Robinson asked Biden about Trump saying Ukraine will have to cede some territory to Russia in order to achieve a peace deal. Robinson said some people think its common sense to say Ukraine must give up some land.

Do you think its not common sense? Its perhaps modern-day appeasement? Robinson questioned.

It is modern-day appeasement, Biden replied.

The term appeasement refers to the 1930 efforts to appease Adolf Hitlers move to annex land in Europe with the hope a war would not occur.

Biden urged people to listen to what Russian President Vladimir Putin said when he talked about going from Kyiv to Ukraine and why.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He cant stand the fact that the Russian dictatorship that he runs, that the Soviet Union has collapsed, Biden said. And anybody who thinks hes going to stop is just foolish.

Biden on Trump-Zelensky meeting

The former president also criticized Trump for how he handled the February meeting with Zelensky in the Oval Office.

Trump had invited Zelensky to the White House earlier this year to discuss the rare mineral deal, which was just recently signed. It was seen as a critical step toward a peace deal to end Ukraine and Russias war.

The meeting resulted in a shouting match between Trump, Vice President Vance and Zelensky, who left Washington with no resolution.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I found it sort of beneath America in the way that took place, Biden said about the fiery meeting.

Trump and Zelensky later met in Rome at Pope Franciss funeral, and the mineral deal was agreed upon and signed shortly after that, marking a step forward in the administrations efforts to end the war.

Biden: Trump not acting like Republican president

Robinson asked Biden if he thinks Trump is behaving like a monarch than a president, particularly as concerns are raised about Trumps understanding of the U.S. Constitution and whether he plans on following it.

Hes not behaving like a Republican president, Biden replied. The BBC noted that the former president chose his response carefully.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Later in the interview, Biden said he was less worried about the future of Americas democracy than he once was, because he believes Republicans are seeing what Trump is doing and are no longer falling in line.

I think the Republican Party is waking up to what Trump is about, he said.

While still in office, Biden criticized the Supreme Courts 2024 decision to grand presidents broad immunity over actions taken in office, saying there are no kings in America.

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 president Joe Bidens floating pier to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza was far more dangerous and costly than the public knew, leaving over 60 troops injured and costing about $230 million, according to a newly released watchdog report.

Bidens plan for a floating path to the hard-to-reach territory, which he announced during his State of the Union address in March 2024, was riddled with problems from the start.

The temporary pier took 1,000 troops to build, but was only operational for about 20 days due to poor weather and distribution challenges.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During the mission, 62 troops were injured, the Defense Department Inspector General said in its report.

While there were no deaths or known attacks on the pier, the Pentagon said three troops suffered non-combat injuries in support of the pier in May, with one of the service members getting medically evacuated in critical condition.

The floating pier to Gaza was announced by then-President Joe Biden during his State of the Union address. The pier, however, injured more troops and cost more than previously known.

That service member, Army Sgt. Quandarius Stanley, died five months later, according to the Washington Post.

"Based on the information provided, we were not able to determine which of these 62 injuries occurred during the performance of duties or resulted off duty or from pre-existing medical conditions," the report said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The pier, which the U.S. military claims was its biggest aid delivery effort to date in the Middle East, received harsh backlash from Republicans who deemed it a political stunt by Biden. Whereas Democrats had been piling on the then-president to provide more aid to Palestinians amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

While it brought desperately needed aid to Gaza, the makeshift floating pier had to be removed several times because of the weather. It also damaged over two dozen watercraft and other equipment, causing $31 million in repair and maintenance costs, the report found.

The Inspector General also said that the U.S. military did not meet the standards for the equipment used to construct the pier.

Nor did they organize, train, and equip their forces to meet common joint standards, the report read.

With Reuters contributions.
LONDON (AP)  Joe Biden said in his first post-presidential interview that President Donald Trumps pressure on Ukraine to give up territory to Russia amounts to  modern-day appeasement, a historically fraught term that refers to a failed effort to stop the Nazis from annexing land in Europe in the 1930s.

Biden told BBC Radio 4's Today program in remarks aired Wednesday that Trump's statements about acquiring Panama, Greenland and Canada have bred distrust of the United States in Europe.

What president ever talks like that? Biden said. Thats not who we are. Were about freedom, democracy, opportunity  not about confiscation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He also said it was a difficult decision to leave the U.S. presidential race in 2024 four months from Election Day to allow former Vice President Kamala Harris to challenge Trump. But, he added, making that move earlier as some critics had suggested would(n't) have mattered.

The term appeasement refers to former British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlains efforts in the 1930s to appease Adolf Hitlers moves to annex land in Europe, which failed to prevent World War II.

Trump has long dismissed the war in Ukraine as a waste of lives and American taxpayer money. Early in his presidency, Trump ordered a pause in American aid to Ukraine  then resumed it. The two countries last week signed an agreement granting American access to Ukraines vast mineral resources  a return on investment, Trump suggested, that could pave the way for more U.S. aid.

He has also said that Crimea, a strategic peninsula along the Black Sea in southern Ukraine that was illegally annexed by Russia in 2014, will stay with Russia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Biden said he worried that relations between the U.S. and Europe was eroding under Trump, with NATO member nations reconsidering whether they trust the U.S.

Europe is going to lose confidence in the certainty of America and the leadership of America," Biden told the BBC. The continents leaders, he added, were asking: "'Can I rely on the United States? Are they going to be there?'

Of special concern, Biden said, was the administration's proposal to let Russia keep some Ukrainian territory in an effort to strike a peace deal that would put an end to fighting.

It is modern-day appeasement, Biden said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Biden said Trump's thrashing of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office in February was beneath America.

I dont understand how they fail to understand that theres strength in alliances, Biden said of the Trump administration on Monday.

Asked about Trump's triumphant celebration of his first 100 days in office, Biden replied that he'll let history render the judgement.

I dont see anything that was triumphant, he said.
Former President Joe Biden criticized President Donald Trump for suggesting Ukraine may have to give up territory in exchange for peace, calling it a modern-day appeasement, in reference to British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlains efforts to appease Adolf Hitler as he sought to annex land in the 1930s.

I just dont understand how people think that if we allow a dictator, a thug, to decide hes going to take significant portions of land that arent his, and thats going to satisfy him. I dont, I dont quite understand, Biden said, referencing Russian President Vladimir Putin in an interview with BBC Radio 4s Today program.

The former president also said he found it beneath America the way Trump berated Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky earlier this year in a tense Oval Office meeting, while also questioning Trumps comments on the Gulf of America and desire to acquire Panama, Greenland and Canada.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What the hells going on here? What president ever talks like that? Thats not who we are. Were about freedom, democracy, opportunity, not about confiscation, Biden said.

US President Donald Trump and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky meet in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on February 28, 2025. - Saul Loeb/AFP/Getty Images

When asked if Biden believes there is a greater threat to democracy now than any other time since World War II, the former president said, Yes, I do because, I mean, look at, look at the number of European leaders in European countries. Theyre wondering, well, what do I do now? Whats the best route for me to take? Can I rely on the United States? Are they going to be there?

Asked if Trump was behaving more like a king than a president, Biden said, Hes not behaving like a Republican president. Biden added that history will judge Trumps time in office but he has not seen anything triumphant in his first 100 days in office.

The former president also said he is less concerned about democracy being under threat in the US than he was in the past because I think the Republican Party is waking up to what Trump is about.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Biden additionally was asked about whether he should have left the 2024 campaign earlier and said I dont think it would have mattered.

We left at a time when we had a good candidate, shes fully funded. And what happened was I had become what we had set out to do. No one thought we could do and become so successful, our agenda. It was hard to say now Im going to stop now, Biden said.

He continued, I meant what I said when I started that I think Im preparing to hand this to the next generation, the transition government. But things moved so quickly that it made it difficult to walk away. It was a hard decision.

Biden spent much of his presidency grappling with the war in Ukraine, working to rally European allies to aid the country and attempting to apply pressure on Russia through sanctions. In his final months in the White House, Biden approved the use of long-range American missiles in Russia and surge in remaining approved US aid to the country as possible US support for Ukraine under Trump remained in question. Under Bidens watch, the US provided more than $65 billion in aid since the war began in 2022.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The conversation with the BBC marks Bidens first interview since leaving office and coincides with 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, which celebrates the end of the World War II in Europe. He is also slated to appear on the ABCs The View on Thursday.

Biden has largely stayed out of the public spotlight since leaving office, but last month, he slammed the Trump administrations approach to the Social Security Administration.

Look whats happened now. Fewer than 100 days, this new administration has made so  done so much damage and so much destruction. Its kind of breathtaking it could happen that soon, Biden said at a conference for disabilities advocates.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Photo: Press service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. On May 7, Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, held an expanded meeting with To Lam, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Trend reports.

During the meeting, the sides noted that while diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and Vietnam have existed for 30 years, friendly ties between the two nations date back to the late 1950s. They fondly recalled the visit of President Ho Chi Minh of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam to Azerbaijan and the visit of National Leader Heydar Aliyev to Vietnam during his tenure in the leadership of the USSR.

President Ilham Aliyev touched upon his own visit to Vietnam and underlined that the adoption of the Joint Declaration on the establishment of a strategic partnership during General Secretary To Lams visit to Azerbaijan served to elevate bilateral relations to a qualitatively new level.

The conversation underscored the importance of promptly convening a meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission and taking concrete steps to implement agreed-upon tasks.

The leaders discussed energy and joint investment projects, noting the significant potential for cooperation in the cultural and humanitarian fields. They also exchanged views on collaboration in areas such as security, defense, and combating cybercrime, emphasizing the need to deepen ties across all sectors.

The meeting also touched upon cooperation within the framework of the UN, CICA, the Non-Aligned Movement, and other international organizations.

The Vietnamese side expressed interest in diversifying its export routes, noting the potential offered by the North-South and East-West transport corridors.

Both sides recalled that Vietnam had endured occupation in its history, achieving territorial integrity and sovereignty through a war of liberation. Similarly, Azerbaijan had suffered from Armenian occupation for nearly 30 years, regaining its territorial integrity and sovereignty through the Patriotic War.

Secretary General To Lam expressed Vietnam's deep appreciation for Azerbaijan's support both during its struggle for independence and in the subsequent nation-building and reconstruction efforts.

During the conversation, they recalled that Vietnamese students once studied in Azerbaijan and noted that many of them now play an important role in Vietnam's development. To Lam also emphasized that an Azerbaijan-educated Vietnamese Alumni Association is currently active in Vietnam.

Cooperation between the New Azerbaijan Party and the Communist Party of Vietnam was also discussed at the meeting.

Secretary General To Lam extended an invitation to President Ilham Aliyev to visit Vietnam, which the President gratefully accepted.
Credit: BBC Radio 4 Today

Joe Biden has insisted it would not have made a difference if he dropped out of the presidential race sooner, as he failed to say Kamala Harriss name.

In his first interview since leaving the White House, the former president said his decision to step aside at the last minute had no impact on the overall outcome of the election and admitted he found the decision challenging.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I dont think it would have mattered. We left at a time when we had a good candidate, he told the BBC, without referring to his former vice-president by name.

Mr Biden, 82, stepped aside from the race with less than four months to go before the 2024 election after apparent repeated appeals from his team and high-profile Democrats.

He faced widespread criticism for failing to address the extent of his reported cognitive decline in the months leading up to his withdrawal from the race.

Questioned on the handover, Mr Biden said it was the right decision but one he struggled with.

Things moved so quickly that it made it difficult to walk away. And it was a hard decision, the former president said. I think it was the right decision. I think that... it was just a difficult decision.

Mr Biden, 83, appeared frail during the interview - BBC

Appearing visibly frail, the former president coughed throughout the wide-ranging interview with the BBCs Today programme, which comes just over 100 days into the second Trump administration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mr Bidens return to the public sphere comes ahead of the release of a series of upcoming books about the presidential campaign which are likely to draw attention to Mr Bidens decision-making.

The Democrats have been accused of covering up Mr Bidens apparent mental decline, making the party look dishonest in the lead up to the election and ultimately resulting in Donald Trumps victory.

White House aides allegedly decided against giving him a cognitive test months before he abandoned his re-election bid amid concern it would raise questions about his mental ability, according to The New York Times.

Mr Biden finally dropped out of the race in July 2025 following backlash from his disastrous performance in the first televised TV debate, during which he froze, stuttered and lost his train of thought multiple times.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the immediate aftermath, he blamed a lack of sleep and a cold he was suffering from, insisting he would remain in the race.

Elsewhere in the BBC interview, Mr Biden accused Mr Trump of appeasing Russia by pressuring Ukraine to cede territory.

The former president said that Vladimir Putin believes that Ukraine is part of Russia and that anybody that thinks hes going to stop if land is given up under the terms of a peace deal is just foolish.

Asked by the BBC about the Trump administrations repeated suggestions that Kyiv should give up territory to end the war, Mr Biden said: It is modern-day appeasement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What the hells going on here? What president ever talks like that? Thats not who we are. Were about freedom, democracy, opportunity. Not about confiscation.

Referring to Mr Putin, he added: I just dont understand how people think that if we allow a dictator, a thug, to decide hes going to take significant portions of land that arent his, that thats going to satisfy him.

Mr Trump has said he expects Russia to keep the Crimean peninsula, which it annexed in 2014, as part of a peace deal and last month accused Volodymyr Zelensky of derailing negotiations by rejecting the suggestion.

Tensions between the two world leaders boiled over in February, when Mr Trump berated the Ukrainian leader and demanded he show more gratitude for Americas support.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Addressing the extraordinary Oval Office blow up, Mr Biden said: I found it sort of beneath America in the way that took place.

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.
In his first interview since leaving office, former President Joe Biden ripped his successor on a number of topics, including his handling of the war in Ukraine, which Biden called modern-day appeasement.

Speaking to the BBC , the ex-president said the spectacle of President Trumps handling of the now-infamous Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was beneath America. In pushing for an end to the war, Trump has adopted Russian talking points and urged Zelenskyy to give up territory.

He also criticized Trump for his executive order renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America on government documents, as well as his comments on acquiring Greenland or making Canada into a state.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its the Gulf of America, maybe were going to have to take back Panama, maybe we need to acquire Greenland, maybe Canada should be a [51st state]. What the hell is going on here? Biden questioned.

He added: What president ever talks like that? Thats not who we are. Were about freedom, democracy, opportunity  not about confiscation.

Last month, Biden, during his first speech since leaving office, ridiculed Trump for his cuts to the federal bureaucracy and sweeping executive orders, saying nobodys king in America. On Wednesday, Biden said Trump is not behaving like a Republican president, without going into detail on what that should look like.

Biden also said he is less worried about the state of democracy in the U.S. than he was previously, though, because I think the Republican Party is waking up to what Trump is about.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As for Bidens health, BBC reporter Nick Robinson said he is still warm and charismatic, but is a much slower, quieter and more hesitant version of the leader he was once. Robinson added that it was hard to imagine Biden could have served another term as president.

The 46th president dropped out of the 2024 race last summer after an ugly debate performance against Trump; the debate showed a slow and feeble Biden struggling to answer questions, and, at one point, declaring, We finally beat Medicare! The debate was so rough for Biden that his friend and backer George Clooney wrote an op-ed in The New York Times about how he needed to ditch his campaign.

When asked if he should have exited earlier and given his vice president, Kamala Harris, more time to run against Trump, Biden said, I dont think it would have mattered. We left at a time when we had a good candidate, [and] she was fully funded.

Trump ultimately beat Harris in the election with an electoral vote of 312 to 226.

You can read the BBCs full write-up of its Biden interview here.

The post Biden Questions Trumps 2nd Term: What the Hell Is Going on Here? appeared first on TheWrap.
Former President Biden blasted President Trump in a new interview over how his successor handled a combative meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office earlier this year.

I found it sort of beneath America in the way that took place, Biden said in a sit-down discussion with the BBC that aired Wednesday, his first major interview since leaving office.

Trump invited Zelensky to the White House in February to discuss a rare minerals deal seen as a crucial step toward a peace agreement in Ukraines war with Russia that has stretched on for more than three years. The Ukrainian leader left after the blowup with no resolution.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump and Zelensky met again face-to-face in Rome last month before Pope Franciss funeral. The White House deemed the follow-up a very productive discussion, and the mineral agreement was finally signed last week.

But Biden expressed alarm in the BBC Radio 4 interview, which took place in Delaware, about the Trump administrations tone toward foreign policy during his second term.

The way we talk about now that, Its the Gulf of America, maybe were going to have to take back Panama, maybe we need to acquire Greenland, maybe Canada should be a [51st state],' Biden said. What the hells going on here?

What president ever talks like that? Thats not who we are, he added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 President Joe Biden did NOT hold back with his comments on how current President Donald Trump is doing his second time in office. While he said it was a difficult decision to leave his term early, he says its even more difficult watching Trump put our country at risk.

Biden sat down with BBC News to say his piece upon the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, which recognizes the end of World War II in Europe. Speaking of allied nations, Biden started on his thoughts of Trump by pointing toward his ridiculous plans to make Canada the 51st state, take back the Panama Canal, acquire Greenland, and of course, rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America.

What the hells going on here? What president ever talks like that? Thats not who we are. Were about freedom, democracy, opportunity, not about confiscation, Biden said in the interview.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To further solidify his disapproval of Trumps handling of international affairs, Biden said the suggestion of Ukrainian capital giving up a piece of land to Russia to end the years-long war is a modern version of British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain trying to appease Adolf Hitler in the 30s to avoid a war.Yikes.

Overall, Biden condemned Trumps behavior specifically throwing jabs at his meeting with Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy alongside Vice President J.D. Vance. During the meeting, Vance and Trump got into an explosive back-and-forth with Zelenskyy following a disagreement over signing a mineral rights deal as a way to end Russias wrath on Ukraine.



I found it sort of beneath America in the way that it took place, Biden said of the meeting.

Sheesh. Its not typical that we see former presidents scold the next guy in office but this is only the latest presidential condemnation Trump received. Just weeks ago, former President Barack Obama shared a piece of his mind about the current president, pointing out that if hed done any of what Trump is up to, it would be straight chaos.

Unfortunately, well just keep watching Trump pile policy on top of policy until, one day, it backfires on him.

For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Joe Biden criticized the Trump administration's Ukraine policy as "modern-day appeasement" of Russia.

The former president told the BBC that conceding territory to Putin won't satisfy his ambitions.

He said that anybody who thinks Putin would stop after territory concessions "is just foolish."

Former President Joe Biden called the Trump administration's pressure on Ukraine to give up territory to Russia in exchange for a cease-fire "modern-day appeasement."

In his first interview since leaving the White House, Biden told the BBC on Monday that Putin cannot be appeased.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I just don't understand how people think that if we allow a dictator, a thug, to decide he's going to take significant portions of land that aren't his, that that's going to satisfy him," Biden said.

He added that anybody who thinks Putin would stop after territorial concessions as part of a peace deal "is just foolish."

President Donald Trump has pushed for a peace deal since returning to office in January.

Trump's defence secretary, Pete Hegseth, has called a return to Ukraine's pre-2014 borders "unrealistic," and last month, Vice President JD Vance said the US was going to "freeze the territorial lines at some level close to where they are today."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Keith Kellogg, the US's special envoy for Ukraine, told Fox News on May 6 that under a cease-fire proposal, Russia and Ukraine would retain the territories they currently hold, freezing things in place for "a period of time," with a 20-mile demilitarized zone.

He likened it to Germany after the end of World War II.

"We say that over time things will change, and that's what we tell the Ukrainians," Kellogg said. "The same thing when you look at what happened with Germany. The Germans always wanted a unified Germany after World War II. They didn't get it right away, but eventually they got it."

But Biden said that Trump's Ukraine policy could also have a broader impact on US and European relations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Europe is going to lose confidence in the certainty of America and the leadership of America," he said.

Biden also criticized the Trump administration's approach to NATO. "I don't understand how they fail to understand that there's strength in alliances," Biden told the BBC. "It saves us money overall."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Former President Joe Biden pulled few punches with his criticism of his predecessor-turned-successor, President Donald Trump, during his first interview since leaving the White House.

Biden eschewed the tradition of presidents keeping their counsel about their successors during the lengthy sit-down with the BBCs Nick Robinson that aired Wednesday.

He condemned Trumps expansionist fantasies, expressed his contempt for the Trump White Houses treatment of Americas traditional allies and issued a short but sharp response to a question on Trumps anti-democratic rhetoric.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In particular, Biden bristled at the Oval Office blowout between Trump, Vice President JD Vance and Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in February. Trump and Vance berated Zelenskyy after he said Russian President Vladimir Putin cant be trusted in peace talks.

I found it beneath America, the way that took place, Biden said of the tense exchange.

And the way we talk about now that, Its the Gulf of America, Maybe were going to have to take back Panama, Maybe we need to acquire Greenland, Maybe Canada should be a [51st state], he continued.

"What the hell's going on here? What president ever talks like that?"



President Biden tells @BBCNickRobinson in an exclusive interview with #R4Today that President Trump's foreign policy is 'not who we are' as a country.  BBC Radio 4 Today (@BBCr4today) May 7, 2025

What the hells going on here? asked Biden. What president ever talks like that? Thats not who we are. Were about freedom, democracy, opportunity, not about confiscation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When asked if Trumps actions were more akin to a monarch, Biden said his successor is not behaving like a Republican president.

Biden also accused Trump of modern day appeasement over his faltering bid to end the Ukraine war, which Russia began with its invasion in 2022.

Related...
Joe Biden has accused Donald Trump of appeasing Russia by pressuring Ukraine to give up its territory, in his first interview since leaving the White House.

The former US president said that Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, believes Ukraine is part of Russia and that anybody that thinks hes going to stop if Ukrainian territory is conceded as part of a peace deal is just foolish.

Asked by the BBC about the Trump administrations suggestions that Kyiv should give up territory to end the war, Mr Biden said: It is modern-day appeasement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What the hells going on here? What president ever talks like that? Thats not who we are. Were about freedom, democracy, opportunity. Not about confiscation.

In a reference to Putin, he added: I just dont understand how people think that if we allow a dictator, a thug, to decide hes going to take significant portions of land that arent his, that thats going to satisfy him.

In a wide-ranging interview, Mr Biden touched upon several subjects, including his decision to end his re-election campaign, Mr Trumps row with Volodymyr Zelensky, and US-Europe relations.

Stepping down

Mr Biden, 82, coughed throughout the interview with the BBCs Today programme, which comes just over 100 days into the second administration of Mr Trump.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He has faced widespread criticism for failing to acknowledge the extent of his age-related decline in office, only stepping aside for Kamala Harris with fewer than four months to go before the 2024 election.

The Democrats have been accused of covering up his transparent lack of sharpness and making the party look dishonest before the vote.

Questioned on the handover, Mr Biden said that it was the right decision to step aside, but added it would not have mattered had he done so earlier.

[I dont see] how that wouldve made much of a difference, he said. We left at a time when we had a good candidate.

Joe Bidens interview with the BBCs Today programme came just over 100 days into Mr Trumps presidency

Trumps aggression

Under Mr Trump, the US has shifted its approach to the Ukraine war, with Washington easing pressure on Moscow compared with his predecessors administration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mr Biden said that he found the US presidents Oval Office row with Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraines president, beneath America.

Referencing his successors comments about annexing Canada and Greenland, he added: What president ever talks like that? Thats not who we are.

Nato alliance

Mr Biden also warned that the Trump administration would cause Europe to lose confidence in the US.

Im worried that Europe is going to lose confidence in the certainty of America and the leadership of America and the world, to deal with not only Nato but other matters that have a consequence, Mr Biden said.

His interview coincides with allied nations marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I fear our allies around the world are going to begin to doubt whether were going to stay where weve always been in the last 80 years, Mr Biden said.

The fact is that my father and mothers generation knew what was at stake. They knew that democracy was literally hanging in the balance.

The United States has never been able to avoid a war in Europe. And so one of the smartest things we did after World War Two was we formed Nato, because alliances provide security, he added.

Mr Biden warned that the Trump administration would cause Europe to lose confidence in the United States

Referring to comments made by Pete Hegseth, the US defence secretary, about Europe freeloading and JD Vance, the US vice-president, talking about his country bailing out Europe, Mr Biden said that they dont have a point.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said: Imagine there being no Nato. I dont understand how they fail to understand that theres strength in alliances It saves us money overall.

Mr Biden was also asked about his own record on the Russia-Ukraine war. Mr Trump has sought to recoup money given to Ukraine by Mr Bidens administration for Kyivs wartime effort.

We gave them everything they needed to provide for their independence and we were prepared to respond, more aggressively, if Putin moved again, Mr Biden said.

Its the values that the vast majority of the American people value. Do everything we can to avoid war, but not yield to tyrants. Not yield.

Trumps record

Mr Trump has also drawn criticism in recent days after saying that he did not know if he must uphold the US Constitution, the nations founding legal document.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He has repeatedly brushed against legal guardrails since returning to the White House, notably over his mass deportations of undocumented migrants and his suggestions that he could run for an unconstitutional third term.

Asked if he thought that Mr Trump was behaving more like a king than a constitutionally limited president, Mr Biden replied: Hes not behaving like a Republican president.

However, he acknowledged that he was less worried about the future of US democracy than he previously had been because I think the Republican Party is waking up to what Trump is about.

The former US president defended his record in office, drawing a contrast between the economic stability when he left the White House and current turmoil driven by Mr Trumps erratic imposition of steep tariffs on global imports.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said: Our economy was growing. We were moving in a direction where the stock market was way up. We were in a situation where we were expanding our influence around the world in a positive way, increasing trade.

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.
Former US President Joe Biden has described his successor Donald Trumps stance on Russias war against Ukraine as a modern form of appeasement, warning that this could encourage other European countries to begin making concessions to Russia.

Source: Biden in an interview with the BBC, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Since taking office, Trump has adopted a markedly different stance from Biden on the war, suggesting that Ukraine should consider ceding territory to Russia in the name of peace.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"It is modern-day appeasement," Biden said of Trump's approach.

In his view, Kremlin ruler Vladimir Putin considers Ukraine "part of Mother Russia. He believes he has historical rights to Ukraine"

"He can't stand the fact that [...] the Soviet Union has collapsed. And anybody who thinks he is going to stop is just foolish."

While in office, Biden faced criticism over his handling of the war in Ukraine. Some in Kyiv, as well as certain allies and UK commentators, argued that he provided Ukraine with enough support to resist the invasion, but not enough to secure a decisive victory  possibly out of concern that Putin might resort to nuclear weapons if pushed too far.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We gave them [Ukraine] everything they needed to provide for their independence," Biden said. "We were prepared to respond, more aggressively, if in fact Putin moved again."

He said he had aimed to avoid the prospect of "World War III through nuclear powers", adding: "We did avoid it."

"What did Putin do when things got really tough for him? He threatened the use of tactical nuclear weapons. This is not a game of roulette," the former US president said.

Background: Earlier, Trumps Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellogg, proposed the idea of a demilitarised zone jointly controlled by Ukraine and Russia.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
State House lawmakers have advanced a version of a closely-watched bill that would overhaul Oklahoma's initiative petition process.

Versions of Senate Bill 1027 have now passed both the Oklahoma Senate and House of Representatives, but the Senate now has the final say on whether to send the bill to the governor.

State questions, also called ballot questions or initiative petitions, can be put to a statewide vote if enough voters sign the petition. The bill would limit how many signatures can be collected from voters living in each county.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Supporters say the change is needed to ensure rural Oklahomans have more of a say in their government. But opponents have argued SB 1027 will discount the voices of people who live in metro areas and make it harder for petition campaigns to succeed.

House Speaker Kyle Hilbert is the co-author on legislation to cap the number of initiative petition signatures that can be collected in each county.

House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, who shepherded the bill through his side of the Oklahoma Capitol on May 7, cited numbers from a recently circulated petition that showed 68% of signatures came from Oklahoma and Tulsa Counties, the state's two most populous counties.

"You know how much the actual population of the state that is? That's 36.4%," Hilbert said. "For all this 'woe is me' about the metros, the metros are getting double the say of the rest of the state under the current process."

During the House debate on the bill, state Rep. Andy Fugate, D-Oklahoma City, argued that the bill harms Oklahomans' ability to change their own laws.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"When state questions are proposed, whether we propose them or the people propose them, ultimately the people decide. This body should be making it easier for people to put something on the ballot," Fugate said. "This particular measure should have gone to a vote of the people. If we're going to take away their power, they should decide that  not us."

The House version of the bill is mostly the same as the version that left the Senate in March. One significant difference, however, is how the signature limits are calculated.

Instead of limiting the collection of signatures to a percentage of registered voters in that county, the version passed by the House sets the limit based on the number of people who actually voted in the most recent gubernatorial election.

More: Read the current version of SB 1027 adopted by the Oklahoma House (PDF)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For example, initiative petition campaigns hoping to get their proposal on the ballot could only collect 25,593 signatures from Oklahoma County voters, and about 22,000 from Tulsa County voters. To succeed, they would need to find about 44,000 more signatures from less-populated counties.

To propose a more permanent change to the state constitution, Oklahoma and Tulsa County voters could only provide about half the number of signatures needed to get it on the ballot.

The House voted 69-23 to pass the bill. It was a party-line vote except six Republicans, mostly from urban districts, joined 17 Democrats in opposition. If the Senate agrees to the amendments approved by the House, it would then be up to Gov. Kevin Stitt to make a final decision on whether it should become law.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma initiative petition signature limit bill advances in House
JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)  Bill Gates was in Indonesia on Wednesday to discuss health and sustainable development initiatives with the leader of the worlds fourth most populous country.

Gates met President Prabowo Subianto at the colonial-style Merdeka palace in Jakarta to discuss global health, nutrition, financial inclusion and public digital infrastructure, Indonesias presidential office said in a statement ahead of the meeting.

The co-founder of Microsoft and Gates Foundation praised Indonesia's adoption of vaccines like Rotavirus for diarrhea and Pneumococcus for pneumonia and the country's efforts in reducing child mortality.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said ten million children under the age of five worldwide died when his foundation launched in 2000, with 90% of the deaths due to diarrhea, pneumonia or malaria. That number has now been cut in half to below five million, Gates said.

It's been an amazing time period. And theres many new tools coming, he told the meeting, which was also attended by prominent Indonesian businesspeople and philanthropists.

Gates' foundation is currently developing a tuberculosis vaccine that's planned to be tested in Indonesia, Subianto said.

This is crucial because TB is still a deadly disease in the country, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gates said that because rich countries dont have tuberculosis, it just doesnt get hardly any money for diagnostics or drugs or vaccines.

Gates has granted more than $159 million to Indonesia since 2009. Much of it was allocated to the health sector, especially for vaccine procurement, Subianto said. Thanks to the funds, Subianto said Biofarma, a state-run pharmaceutical company, now can produce two billion doses of its polio vaccine every year, benefiting more than 900 million people in 42 countries.

The Gates Foundation is also planning to roll out a micronutrient supplement for pregnant women in Indonesia in coming months.

Subianto said that Gates will receive Indonesia's highest honor in New York during the U.N. General Assembly in September for his services to the country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During his first in-person visit to the Indonesian capital, Gates is also scheduled to visit a primary school in eastern Jakarta where more than 500 students were taking part of the program.

The United Nations Childrens Fund estimates that one in 12 Indonesian children younger than 5 suffers from low weight, while one in five is shorter than normal. Both conditions are caused by malnourishment.

Indonesia launched an ambitious project this year to fight malnutrition that aims to feed nearly 90 million children and pregnant women. The program is expected to cost 450 trillion rupiah ($28 billion) through 2029.

Critics question whether it is affordable. Investors and analysts have questioned the burden on state finances and the economy, and the project's ties with the interests of industrial lobby groups.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. A document exchange ceremony between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam was held on May 7, with the participation of President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam, Trend reports.

Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and To Lam, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, adopted a Joint Statement on the Establishment of a Strategic Partnership between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Minister of Energy of Azerbaijan Parviz Shahbazov and Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of Vietnam Nguyen Hoang Long exchanged the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on Cooperation in the Field of Energy.

Minister of Defense of Azerbaijan Zakir Hasanov and Minister of National Defense of Vietnam Phan Van Giang exchanged the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of National Defense of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on Cooperation in the Field of Defense.

Minister of Justice of Azerbaijan Farid Ahmadov and Minister of Justice of Vietnam Nguyen Hai Ninh exchanged the Cooperation Program between the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Justice of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam for the Period 2025  2027.

Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan Mikayil Jabbarov and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Petrovietnam Le Manh Hung exchanged the Memorandum of Understanding between the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR) and Vietnam National Industry  Energy Group (Petrovietnam).

Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan Mikayil Jabbarov and Chairman of the BSR Board of Directors Bui Ngoc Duong exchanged the Memorandum of Understanding between SOCAR Trading Singapore PTE LTD and Binh Son Refining and Petrochemical JSC.

Minister of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan Rashad Nabiyev and Minister of Science and Technology of Vietnam Nguyen Manh Hung exchanged the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Science and Technology of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in the Fields of Technology, Innovation, and Development.

Minister of Culture of Azerbaijan Adil Karimli and Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Vietnam Nguyen Van Hung exchanged the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Culture between the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Other signed documents included the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Archival Work between the National Archive Department of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the State Records and Archives Administration of Vietnam, the Cooperation Agreement between the Azerbaijan State News Agency and the Vietnam News Agency, and the Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of the Joint Business Council between the Small and Medium Business Development Agency (KOBIA) of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the National Association of Entrepreneurship (VINEN) of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Will be updated
From staff reports

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla.  While a 25-year quest for the remains of two Northeast Oklahoma teenage girls remains unsolved, state Rep. Steve Bashore, R-Miami, on Tuesday thanked Gov. Kevin Stitt for signing into a law a bill name in honor of those two girls.

It requires those convicted of being accessories to murder to serve 85% of their prison sentence before being eligible for consideration for parole.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

House Bill 1001, called Lauria and Ashleys Law, was enacted in reaction to the early release of an inmate convicted as an accessory to murder.

The 16-year-old girls, Lauria Bible and Ashley Freeman, were presumed kidnapped, tortured, raped and killed on New Years Eve 1999, and law officers think their bodies may have been dumped in a Picher mine pit. Danny and Kathy Freeman, Ashleys parents, were shot to death, and their bodies were found in their mobile home, which had been set on fire.

Ronnie Busick was arrested in 2018 as an accessory to murder in the 1999 deaths of Danny and Kathy Freeman.

Busick implicated two other men, Warren Phil Welch and David Pennington, but they died before their possible involvement in the case was known. Girlfriends of Welch and Pennington told investigators the men kidnapped the girls from the Freeman home and took the girls to a house in Picher, where they were tortured and killed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Busick, after his arrest, told investigators that he had seen Welch, who lived in Picher, with lime and concrete in the back of his truck around the time the girls went missing. Welch told him he was filling a root cellar.

When Busick did plead guilty, it was to a charge of being an accessory because he knew of Penningtons and Welchs involvement and kept quiet about it for more than 20 years.

Busick was sentenced Aug. 31, 2020, as an accessory. At that time, Oklahoma officials said he would serve 10 years in prison followed by five years of probation with the first year supervised.

However, he was released after serving about three years. When his release came, prison officials said it was because he was credited with time served in county jail and with time for good behavior, a policy that was based on state law.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This has been such an incredibly long journey for these family members, Bashore said in a statement Tuesday. I made a promise I would seek to strengthen the law so all perpetrators of such horrible crimes would see stricter punishment and would never get a lessened sentence simply because theyve shown some kind of good behavior while behind bars. Its gratifying to know going forward this will be the case.

Bashore worked with Lorene Bible, the mother of Lauria Bible, and her cousin, Lisa Broderick, in drafting the law and seeking its passage over the last several years.

This has been a lot of hard work by Representative Bashore and those in the Senate who worked on this, Lorene Bible said in a statement. We know it wont help in Lauria and Ashleys case, but for future families in the same position, theyll have something they can use.
Missouri state Rep. Chris Brown, a Kansas City Republican, speaks in the House in February (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications).

Local laws prohibiting landlords from discriminating against tenants who receive public assistance would be unenforceable under legislation sent to the governors desk Wednesday.

The bill passed by a final vote of 23 to 10 on Wednesday in the Senate, over the opposition of Democrats. It previously passed the House 103 to 37.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The legislation takes aim at ordinances passed in several Missouri cities to protect tenants from discrimination based on the source of their income  especially tenants who use federal housing choice vouchers, known as Section 8 vouchers, to pay rent.

The bill was co-sponsored by state Reps. Chris Brown, a Republican from Kansas City, and Ben Keathley, a Republican from Chesterfield. In the Senate, it was carried by state Sen. Nick Schroer, a Republican from Defiance.

Various municipalities are trying to force landlords to put their homes into Section 8 programs, Brown said during House debate Monday. We feel like that is overstepping their authority.

Schroer on Wednesday called it a common sense bill that was just limiting what political subdivisions can do when it comes to property rights.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kansas City passed a source of income discrimination ban last year, though it was in large part paused by the courts in February.

Columbia, St. Louis, Webster Groves and Clayton have similar protections on the books. The laws make it illegal for landlords to discriminate based solely on the fact of renters lawful sources of income, including Section 8, veterans benefits and Social Security.

An amendment previously added by Democrat state Sen. Patty Lewis of Kansas City, would have carved out most of Kansas City from the legislation. But that language was removed in the final bill.

The amendment that we stripped out would have excluded Kansas City from the bill, Brown said. Kansas City was a big reason we originated this bill.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Schroer said there were also constitutional concerns that carving out Kansas City could get litigated and thrown out in court.

This was the only path forward to make it through both chambers, Schroer said.

Lewis said she was frustrated not to be consulted during the final negotiations.

Affordable housing is extremely important to me, and thats the basis of what they were trying to do with the ordinance, Lewis said. And Im just trying to protect the local control.

An amendment added by Democratic state Sen. Stephen Webber of Columbia was kept in the bill to clarify protections for renters receiving veterans benefits.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The legislation had the support of landlords groups, apartment associations, the realtors association and the conservative think tank Show Me Institute. Proponents characterized localities source-of-income protections as an overreach into property owners rights.

Opponents said the bill infringed on local control and would hurt affordable housing availability, exacerbating homelessness. The city of Kansas City has been opposed along with the anti-poverty nonprofit Empower Missouri and an association of public housing authorities in Missouri.

The legislation will go into effect Aug. 28 if signed into law by the governor.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
Rep. Chris Sells, R-Greenville, speaks to a colleague on the floor of the Alabama House of Representatives on Feb. 12, 2025 at the Alabama Statehouse in Montgomery, Alabama. (Brian Lyman/Alabama Reflector)

A bill that would require app stores to verify the age of individuals creating accounts in Alabama will likely not become law this year.

The House State Government Committee was set Tuesday to consider SB 187, sponsored by Sen. Clyde Chambliss, R-Prattville. But the committee did not have a quorum for its scheduled meeting, preventing a vote on the bill.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

With just two days left in the 2025 legislative session, the committee would have to meet Wednesday to give the bill a chance of passage on May 14, the last scheduled day of the session, but Rep. Chris Sells, R-Greenville, the chair of the committee, indicated that legislation will be worked on over the summer to be introduced in the next legislative session.

The bill would require app stores to obtain parental consent for users identified as minors before they can download or purchase apps or make in-app purchases. The bill would have also prohibited developers from enforcing disclosures or terms of service on minors without parental consent.

Apps would have to be approved by the parent and be age-appropriate for the child, so that would take care of the problem of the phones that are already out there, and thats what this is about, protecting children, said Sells, who sponsored a similar bill in the House.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A companion bill, SB 186, also sponsored by Chambliss, was passed by both chambers and sent to Gov. Kay Ivey Thursday. It will require smartphones and tablets manufactured on or after June 1 and activated in Alabama include a pre-installed filter capable of blocking obscene material. Sells said that will address the issue going forward.

Justin Hill, a spokesperson for NetChoice advocating for limited internet government control, free speech and enterprise across the country aid we all agree on the why for the bill, but disagreed on the basis of free speech. He suggested that the bill could face legal challenges.

There are 17 states where this bill was filed, they run afoul of the First Amendment in our belief. And we do a lot of work in this space. We have a litigation team that litigates a lot of similar bills. This one has not made it to the point of litigation yet, Hill said.

NetChoice has sued or is in litigation with at least 12 states. Georgia was sued in March after passing a law that would require children to acquire parental consent to use social media.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Melea Stephens, a Birmingham marriage and family therapist and a board member of the National Center on Sexual Exploitation, claimed to have seen cases in her private practice of children being exploited on commonly used apps. She said that minors are entering contracts with multibillion dollar companies when they sign up for an app without parental permission.

We do not allow minors to go into a bank and sign a contract because they cannot comprehend the risk involved, Stephens said, adding that the legislation is based on contract law, not content moderation or free speech issues.

Rachel Holland, a spokesperson for Meta, a vocal proponent of the legislation, said in an email after the bills passage that they look forward to working with lawmakers on this legislation.

Parents want a one-stop shop to verify their teens age and grant permission for them to download apps in a privacy-preserving way. The app store is the best place for it, and one-third of US states and the US Congress have introduced bills recognizing the central role app stores play, she said in a statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Holland also cited a poll from the Alabama Policy Institute, a conservative think tank, suggesting 83% of voters support parental approval in app stores.

Rep. Russell Bedsole, R-Alabaster, said that whether or not this legislation is the right piece, he feels that parents need help monitoring childrens behavior online. He said that he uses a service that requires his children to ask for permission before downloading an app on their phone. Despite approving apps that seemed harmless to his children, Bedsole said there was still some unwanted content in the form of advertising or surveys.

Bedsole said that despite these concerns, lawmakers should work with groups like NetChoice to address them because of their complexity.

Weve got to have someone who represents the development of these apps to be at the table, because the technology behind it is so complex that, as a parent alone, I need some help, Bedsole said.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, left, and House Speaker Pro Tempore Anthony Moore, R-Clinton, right, both voted to support Senate Bill 1027, which adds restrictions to the process of gathering signatures for initiative petitions in Oklahoma. (Photo by Kyle Phillips/For Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  Legislation imposing restrictions on gathering signatures for initiative petitions moved one step closer to becoming law after House lawmakers approved a revised version Wednesday.

Proponents of the bill called it voter empowerment and common sense legislation, while critics said it would limit voices of rural and urban Oklahomans and make it nearly impossible to get a state question on the ballot.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Senate Bill 1027, authored by House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, would limit the number of signatures that can be collected in each county to 11.5% of votes cast in the most recent gubernatorial election for a statutory change and 20.8% for a constitutional change. He said this is meant to include rural voters in all parts of the initiative petition process who are usually left out.

The metros are getting double the say the rest of the state under the current process, he said.

The measure would give the secretary of state, who is appointed by the governor, the power to remove the gist, or summary of the ballot measure. The gist is currently reviewed by the Oklahoma attorney general and can be checked by the state Supreme Court.

Oklahomans who sign a petition would be able to rescind their signatures and file challenges to the gist prior to signature collection, and anyone circulating a petition would need to be a registered Oklahoma voter, disclose any payment and the source of it, and cannot take money from entities outside the state.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rep. Jim Olsen, R-Roland, said the bill would not limit rural participation.

To say that it silences rural areas is a fantasy, a fabrication, a falsehood and a fallacy, he said. Additionally, its a delusion, a deception and the source distortion. This bill facilitates the participation of everybody in Oklahoma, of every area in Oklahoma, including the metros, and including, as well, the rural areas.

Rep. Daniel Pae, R-Lawton, (right) was one of six Republicans to vote against Senate Bill 1027. (Photo by Emma Murphy/Oklahoma Voice)

Six Republicans joined Democrats in voting against the measure, including Rep. Daniel Pae, R-Lawton. The bill advanced from the House with a vote of 69 to 23.

Many of Paes constituents, as well as people from across the state, reached out to him about itl, Pae said. None of his constituents told him they had problems with a previous vote he cast against a similar measure last session, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fundamentally, I think this state was founded on populist values and our founders wanted power to be decentralized to localities and communities across the state of Oklahoma, he said. And we have this initiative petition process for a reason. Is it perfect? No, nothing is perfect in this world. But I think we should respect the spirit of this process and respect the will of our founders. Having any attempts to try to modify it in whatever way, Ive always been in opposition.

Oklahoma City Democrats Rep. Andy Fugate and Mickey Dollens both attempted to amend Hilberts legislation. Fugates amendment would have sent the issue to the ballot for voters to decide on. Dollens amendment would have extended the period for collecting signatures from 90 to 180 days.

Both amendments were tabled.

This action reveals the true intent of the legislation, Dollens said. He said extending the time signatures are allowed to be gathered would have allowed petitions to be circulated to all corners of the state and more rural areas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It just proves that this has nothing to do about getting more rural votes or signatures. This is simply about silencing the peoples constitutional right to petition their government, he said. And it should be noted that signatures make no effect on the outcome of a state question on the ballot. All that does is simply gain and question access to the ballot, and then everyone has the opportunity to vote for it in a general election, just like we do statewide elected officials.

Rep. Suzanne Schreiber, D-Tulsa, said the bill limits direct democracy. She said the point of the bill is to make it tough, if not impossible for initiative petitions to be put on the ballot.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE

Another Oklahoma City Democrat, Rep. Forrest Bennett, said the current initiative petition process has produced life-saving measures like Medicaid expansion. Medical marijuana was also legalized through a state question in 2018 and raising the minimum wage is set to be on the ballot in 2026.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I am no stranger to bills not going my way in this room, he said. And it has been suggested that perhaps this is being run because some of my colleagues and some folks with power in Oklahoma are upset with what people do with their direct democracy now.

Rep. Jay Steagall, R-Yukon, said it is not the job of representatives to exercise the will of the people, but to protect their rights.

We do not live in a democracy. We dont, he said. It was asserted here yesterday that we live in the greatest democracy in the history of the world. We do not. We live in a republic. As a matter of fact, our entire system is designed around the premise of a representative republic.

Rep. Anthony Moore, R-Clinton, pointed to Colorado, a blue state, as having a similar policy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Colorado requires the total number of signatures collected to be 5% of those cast for secretary of state, but requires petitions seeking to amend the state constitution be signed by 2% of the total registered voters in each of the state senate districts.

Because House lawmakers amended the measure in committee, it heads back to the Senate for consideration.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
Powerlines in Hood River County above the Columbia River July 25, 2024. Oregon Legislators are considering several bills aimed at regulating the state's monopoly utilities. (Photo by Jordan Gale/Oregon Capital Chronicle)

Legislators are considering at least six bills this session aimed at curbing spending from private, investor-owned monopoly utilities and limiting how and when those utilities can recover costs from customers.

The slate of bills, largely supported by environmental and social justice groups and the watchdog Citizens Utility Board, and largely opposed by the states three monopoly electric and three monopoly gas utilities, are currently sitting in legislative revenue and rules committees that are exempt from traditional deadlines for decision-making.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The proposals follow five years of residential rate increases that have led to record power and gas shut offs for Oregonians. In 2024, Oregons private investor-owned utilities collectively cut off gas and power to nearly 70,000 households, according to data from the Citizens Utility Board. They also come as most Oregonians pay far more for electricity and gas than they did five years ago: Electricity rates are 50% higher and natural gas rates are nearly 40% higher than they were five years ago.

Gov. Tina Kotek has expressed support for several of the bills lawmakers are proposing to rein in the private utilities.

What I want to see for the end of this session is a renewed commitment to keeping utility rates low, giving the Public Utility Commission additional tools to do that, and more opportunities to put more of the burden on folks who are using the energy, Kotek said at a news conference Monday. Some of the large users, like data centers, should be doing more of their fair share.

Senate Bill 688

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What it does: The bill would give the Oregon Public Utility Commission, which regulates the monopoly utilities operating in the state, the power to require those utilities meet certain performance targets in order to raise rates. Those targets include reducing capital and energy costs, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, investing in community solar and microgrids and ensuring low-income Oregonians arent cut off from power.

Currently, utilities borrow from their investors and guarantee about a 9% return on the investment when they build out their infrastructure. Ratepayers cover both the costs of repayment and the investors profit. Bill sponsors said this incentivizes companies not to save ratepayers money, but to make needless and expensive investments in infrastructure to reward investors.

Whos behind it?: State Sens. Khanh Pham, D-Portland, and Jeff Golden, D-Ashland, sponsored the bill. It has the support of the Citizens Utility Board, environmental groups and the League of Oregon Cities, who said that private, monopoly utilities lack financial incentives to contain costs because their profits come from investments in expanding.

Its time we modernize the process, Nolan Plese, a lobbyist for the League of Oregon Cities, wrote in submitted testimony.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Whos opposed?: Officials from Portland General Electric, or PGE, say the bill as amended imposes regulations utilities are already required to follow, such as requiring private utilities to acquire cost-effective energy and to reduce emissions.

PGE is already heavily engaged in many of the activities the bill seeks to incent, company lobbyist Greg Alderson wrote in submitted testimony.

Bill status: The bill received two public hearings in the Senate Committee on Energy and Environment in March, where it passed near unanimously from the committee to the Joint Ways and Means Committee with the recommendation they also vote to approve it. Its been sitting in the Ways and Means committee without a scheduled vote since March 27.

Senate Bill 88

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What it does: The bill would prohibit private utilities from charging customers to cover the costs of lobbying, lawsuits, political contributions, industry association membership fees and marketing and advertising. Currently the Public Utility Commission decides to what degree companies can raise customer rates to cover these costs.

Whos behind it?: The bill is being considered at the request of the Senate Committee on Energy and Environment. More than 130 letters of testimony have been submitted in support of the bill, including from environmental groups, the Oregon Solar and Storage Industries Association and the Citizens Utility Board.

Weve seen in recent years the way our traditional processes for assigning rates to residential customers has become unbalanced, Jennifer Hill-Hart, a lobbyist for the Citizens Utility Board, said in a public hearing on the bill Monday. Utilities have the upper hand, from control of when they come in for a rate case, to what is included in the general rate case. This is to the disservice of customers, and has outcomes that not only affect affordability but fairness and transparency.

Whos opposed?: Private monopoly utilities, the industry group Northwest Gas Association and the Local 290 Plumbers and Steamfitters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Brad Archuleta, an organizer with the plumbers and steamfitters union, said his members are worried that utilities will cut costs elsewhere if they cant raise customer rates to pay for membership fees and advertising.

If SB 88 moves forward, utilities may be forced to cut corners and look for shortcuts, Archuleta wrote. We need to ensure the folks who are building out our energy system are paid well, and the market has the ability to grow and welcome more union jobs.

Bill status: The Senate Energy and Environment Committee sent the bill to the Senate Rules Committee in March without recommending its passage  a common maneuver to give lawmakers more time to work on amendments or gather support for a measure. The Rules Committee held a public hearing for the bill Monday and has not yet scheduled a vote.

House Bill 3179

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What it does: Also known as the FAIR Energy Act, this bill would limit private, investor-owned utility rate requests, allowing them only once every 18 months. Rate increases would have to go into effect before Nov. 1 or after March 31 so ratepayers would not suddenly be hit with a bigger bill in winter when usage is highest.

The bill would also require the Public Utility Commission to consider the cumulative economic impact of a rate increase on customers over time and to analyze company profits from the 24 months leading up to a request to increase rates.

Whos behind it?: State Reps. Nathan Sosa, D-Hillsboro, and Pam Marsh, D-Ashland, and state Sens. Kathleen Taylor, D-Milwaukee, and Janeen Sollman, D-Hillsboro. The bill has the support of the NW Energy Coalition, Citizens Utility Board and the city of Portland.

Energy rates have increased dramatically in recent years, and today too many Portlanders are struggling to pay their energy bills, wrote Eric Engstrom, Portlands interim director of planning and sustainability. HB 3179 seeks to center households and families by requiring greater transparency, additional consumer protections, and an assessment of the real human impacts of utility rate increases.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Whos opposed?: Private monopoly utilities, the Alliance of Western Energy Customers and Oregon Business and Industry, a statewide business association, are among bill opponents.

Bill status: The House Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection sent it to the House Rules Committee in April. A public hearing for the bill in the Rules Committee is scheduled for Wednesday.

House Bill 3546

What it does: HB 3546 is also known as the POWER Act. It creates a separate customer class for data centers, which are the fastest-growing energy users in the state. This would allow the Public Utility Commission to ensure charges for grid expansion and infrastructure needed to power those data centers are not being passed onto residential and commercial customers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Whos behind it?: The bill is sponsored by a bipartisan group of lawmakers including state Reps. Pam Marsh, D-Ashland, Mark Owens, R-Crane, Dacia Grayber, D-Portland, and state Sens. Jeff Golden, D-Ashland, and Janeen Sollman, D-Hillsboro. It has received nearly 200 letters of testimony including more than 180 in support from environmental groups, city mayors and the monopoly utilities.

While the existing regulatory framework is established to protect customers and align the costs of energy infrastructure with the customers benefiting from these investments, the scale, pace and uncertainty surrounding this potential load growth requires additional regulatory updates to protect all customers while creating a path for large customers to expand their businesses, wrote Pacific Power lobbyist Annette Price in her submitted testimony.

Whos opposed?: Among the nine letters of opposition are ones from the Alliance of Western Energy Consumers, the Data Center Coalition and Amazon Web Services.

As society continues to rely more heavily on technology, global demands for energy and grid capacity continue to grow. It is important for states like Oregon to consider the positive opportunities of data centers in both AI development and sustainable energy solutions to meet these interconnected challenges, said Shannon Kellogg, a vice president and lobbyist for Amazon, in his submitted testimony.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bill status: The bill passed the House in April on a 41-16 vote, with several Republicans joining Democrats in voting to approve. It had its second of two public hearings in the Senate Energy and Environment Committee on Monday. A vote in the committee has not yet been scheduled.

House Bill 3081

What it does: The bill would direct the Oregon Department of Energy to create a website, in multiple languages, where Oregonians can find and apply for state and federal tax incentives, rebates and discounts on energy-efficient heating and cooling pumps, zero-emissions vehicles and investments in home and building weatherization. It would also require the agency to hire staff to help Oregonians navigate applications and apply for the incentives, and to get more low-income Oregonians applying.

Whos behind it?: State Rep. Emerson Levy, D-Bend. More than 80 letters of support have been submitted, including many from environmental groups and from the Citizens Utility Board.

Since many energy incentive programs have different rules and requirements, they can be complex and overwhelming to navigate, said Eliza Walton, coalition director of the Oregon Conservation Network, in written testimony. If the bill passes, Oregonians will get direct assistance from someone in their part of the state to make their home projects more affordable through locating programs they qualify for, connect with trusted contractors, and ask questions along the way.

Whos opposed?: The public utility districts and cooperatively-owned utilities.

Jennifer Joly, director of the Oregon Municipal Electric Utilities Association, said utilities themselves already offer customers direction with applications for tax rebates and discounts, and that the states attempts at creating a sort of clearing house for deals so far has had shortcomings.

We continue to be concerned about spending at ODOE, she wrote. In a new era of likely declining federal incentives for energy efficiency, we question the creation of a call center and clearinghouse.

Bill status: House Bill 3081 passed unanimously out of the House Climate, Energy and Environment Committee and awaits a hearing and vote in the Joint Ways and Means Committee.

House Bill 3792

What it does: The bill would double the amount of money electric utilities contribute to the states Energy Assistance Program annually from $20 million to $40 million, which serves low-income customers struggling to pay their utility bills.

Whos behind it?: State Rep. Tom Andersen, D-Salem, is the bills sponsor. It has the support of Portland city leaders as well as Multnomah County leaders and environmental and social groups such as AARP.

Given the rapid escalation in utility rates in Oregon, HB 3792 will help older Oregonians not only pay their bills but stay in their homes, wrote Andrea Meyer, a lobbyist for AARP of Oregon.

Whos opposed?: Portland General Electric. Company lobbyist Greg Alderson said PGE is concerned that increasing the amount of money in the Energy Assistance Program does not address the root causes of high electricity bills, and that the money would be better spent ensuring people have an effective and efficient heat source in their homes, which would lower their bills.

Limited bill assistance resources primarily go toward covering large bills and balances each year for customers experiencing persistent high energy burden, in many cases the same customers, rather than addressing the underlying contributing factors, Alderson said in written testimony.

Bill status: The bill advanced on a party-line vote in April from the House Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee to the Joint Ways and Means Committee. It is still in the Ways and Means Committee without a scheduled vote.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

Clarification: The story previous characterized bills as at a standstill, but some are moving to committees limited by what they can do until the states May 14 Revenue Forecast is available. The story has been updated to reflect this.
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  A group of lawmakers on Capitol Hill Wednesday launched a new bipartisan Mental Health Caucus.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than one in five Americans struggle with a mental illness.

Its something these lawmakers have seen firsthand.

For me, it was my sister. Growing up, I watched her struggle with depression and suicidal thoughts, Rep. Andrea Salinas (D-Ore).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

My son was diagnosed with schizophrenia 31 years ago, Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.) said.

My stepmother she had mental illness, Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.) said.

The group is now launching a bipartisan Mental Health Caucus, headed up by co-chair Oregon Congresswoman Andrea Salinas.

To raise awareness, reduce stigma, share resources, Salinas said. Theres some easy legislation out there, she added.

Salinas says strengthening the mental health workforce and funding peer support programs is a good step.

And its a low-cost barrier that Congress could actually help support, Salinas said.

Other steps include addressing social medias impacts on youth mental health, and Virginia Congressman Don Beyer says, loneliness.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

More of us live alone than ever before. Weve come to understand that happiness and flourishing is being part of a sense of community, Beyer said.

The Democratic members of the caucus say theyre concerned that existing mental health resources funded by Medicaid could be on the chopping block. It comes as Republicans work on a budget bill to slash spending.

These cuts would mean people will die. People will not have the access to the care they need, Salinas said.

Democrats, what are they doing? Theyre lying about what were doing with Medicaid, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said this week.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Speaker Johnson says Republicans are trying to strengthen Medicaid.

By eliminating things like fraud, waste and abuse, which is a huge problem in the program, Johnson said.

Johnson has said the House aims to pass that budget by Memorial 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 DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT)  A Birmingham man was arrested in connection to a Saturday night shooting.

Terrance Mikal Williams, 27, is charged with attempted murder. He is being held in the Jefferson County Jail on $60,000 bond as of Wednesday.

According to the Birmingham Police Department, officers were dispatched around 8:10 p.m. Saturday to the 400 block of First Street West on a ShotSpotter alert. Community members then flagged police down and said a person was shot.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Officers then found the male victim. He was taken to an area hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Michael Davis capital murder trial begins: Ambush or self-defense?

Police determined the shooting happened in the 100 block of Fourth Court West. Birmingham felony assault detectives received information from community members and the Real Time Crime Center on a possible suspect.

Williams was arrested in the 4600 block of Roscoe Avenue hours after the shooting. He was placed on a 48-hour felony extension at the Birmingham City Jail.

Detectives showed case information to the Jefferson County District Attorneys Office on Monday. They received an attempted murder warrant against Williams.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT)  A full-scale disaster drill is scheduled at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport for Thursday morning.

According to the Birmingham Airport Authority, the Federal Aviation Administration requires airports to practice this drill at least once every three years. It is meant to simulate an aircraft emergency that results in mass casualties and a major response from first responders.

Alabama online surplus auction running through May 11

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The triennial drill will feature a live fire situation on the airfield, with aircraft rescue firefighters conducting live fire suppression. About 100 volunteers are expected to pose as injured passengers for emergency crews to run through response elements such as triage, transporting wounded people and identifying and tracking victims. UAB Hosptial will participate in the drill by accepting patients.

The drill is set to start at 10:30 a.m.

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.
The conclave to elect the next pope will resume on Thursday after black smoke billowed from a chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday evening, indicating that no clear winner had emerged.

The inconclusive result was expected, given that for the past few centuries, no pope has been chosen after the first round of voting.

Thousands of Catholic faithful, people on holiday in Rome and the simply curious packed into St Peters Square, their gaze fixed on the slender chimney as black smoke poured out.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The 133 cardinals sequestered inside cast their first vote at the end of a day laden with pomp, ceremony and ancient rites, which came two weeks after the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88.

There was intense speculation as to why it took more than three hours for smoke to emerge.

One theory was that a 90-year-old cardinal who gave a meditation to the cardinals after the doors of the chapel were closed may have delivered a particularly long address.

The meditation was given by Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa. Once delivered, he left the chapel and the vote  which is restricted to cardinals under the age of 80  began.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But the real reason for the delay may never be known as cardinals are sworn to secrecy about what happens during the conclave, on pain of excommunication

Earlier in the day, the cardinals, wearing blood red cassocks and white mitres, attended a special Mass inside St Peters Basilica.

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the 91-year-old dean of the College of Cardinals, told the assembled princes of the church that the next pope must be someone up to the challenge of confronting global uncertainty and this difficult and complex turning point in history.

He told his peers that they must set aside every personal consideration in choosing the new pontiff and keep in mind only ... the good of the Church and of humanity.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Later, the cardinals gathered in the Pauline Chapel inside the Vatican for prayer and reflection, beseeching the Holy Spirit to guide them as they set about choosing a successor to the Argentinian pontiff, who died on Easter Monday.

Outside the chapel stood a phalanx of Swiss Guards, resplendent in their yellow and blue striped uniforms and red-plumed helmets.

The cardinals, who come from five continents and more than 70 countries, then processed solemnly out of the Pauline Chapel, chanting the meditative Litany of the Saints.

Cardinals stand inside the Sistine Chapel before the beginning of the conclave - Vatican Media

The hymn implores the saints to help them choose a new leader for the 1.4 billion-strong Catholic Church.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pacing slowly across marble-inlaid floors, past splendid frescoes, they entered the Sistine Chapel, where the walls and ceilings are covered in frescoes by Renaissance masters including Michelangelo, Botticelli and Pinturicchio.

They walked slowly up to the altar, over which looms Michelangelos imposing Last Judgment, a huge fresco showing some souls ascending to Heaven  and others plunging down into Hell.

After bowing to the altar, they took their places at tables that had been laid out on either side of the chapel.

They wore heavy crucifixes around their necks. One of them will, within just a few days, become the next pope  he just does not know it yet.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The procession was led by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who as secretary of state under Pope Francis was the de facto prime minister of the Vatican City State.

He led the cardinals in chanting the Latin invocation of the Holy Spirit: Veni, Creator Spiritus.

Parolin among leading contenders

Cardinal Parolin is considered one of the leading papabile  an Italian word that translates as pope-able, meaning a cardinal with a strong chance of being elected pontiff.

Among the other favourites are Luis Antonio Tagle, a cardinal from the Philippines who would become the first Asian pope if elected; Pierbattista Pizzaballa, an Italian who is the Patriarch of Jerusalem; and the Hungarian cardinal Peter Erdo, a favourite of conservatives.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Other contenders include Jean-Marc Aveline from Marseilles, who would become the first French pope since the 14th century, and Robert Prevost from Chicago, who would be the first pope from the US.

The conclave is being cast broadly as a battle between progressive cardinals keen to perpetuate the achievements of Franciss 12-year papacy, and conservatives anxious to roll back many of his initiatives.

Gregorio Rosa Chavez, a cardinal from El Salvador, does not think that his brother cardinals will retreat from Pope Franciss vision for the Church.

There will not be a step backwards, he told Italys Corriere della Sera newspaper.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is not possible. Whoever is chosen, I think it will be a pope who continues the work begun by Francis.

The doors of the Sistine Chapel were sealed shut to marking the beginning of the conclave process

Francis appointed 108 of the 133 cardinals, suggesting that the progressives may predominate, but nothing is assured in a Vatican conclave.

Francis himself was an outsider during the last conclave and his election was a surprise to many.

Nobody knows how many days it will take the cardinals to elect the 267th pope. Francis and his predecessor, Benedict XVI, were both elected in two days, but the longest conclave in history, in the 13th century, dragged on for nearly three years.

The fact that there are so many cardinals, and that many of them have never met each other, could suggest a long conclave.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the archbishop of New York, thinks it could take up to four days.

People say, Oh, do you have a problem choosing a candidate? he told a US radio network.

Im saying, Yeah, not because theres not enough of them, but because theres quite a few of them.

And so when I go through the guys that impressed me, the guys Ive got to know, the guys about whom Ive consultedthered be a half dozen or so guys that I could say, He would not be bad.

Crowds in St Peters Square waited with bated breath for the outcome of the first round of voting on Wednesday - Eloisa Lopez

Before the conclave began, the cardinals swore an oath of secrecy. Then came the moment of truth: Archbishop Diego Ravelli, the Vaticans master of liturgical ceremonies, pronounced the Latin words extra omnes  everybody out.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dozens of white-robed priests, ushers, officials and members of the Vatican choir filed out of the chapel in silence.

With a metallic clank, the ancient wooden doors to the 15th century chapel were pulled shut.

Two Swiss Guards stood to attention outside, their long halberds at the ready.

The cardinals were cloistered inside, shut off from the outside world  they are forbidden to have mobile phones or any other forms of communication and the chapel has been swept for listening devices.

Concealed from the world, the cardinals filled out ballots marked Eligo in Summum Pontificem (I elect as Supreme Pontiff).

They placed them on a silver plate, from where they were tipped into an urn which rested on a table in front of The Last Judgment.

Three cardinals known as scrutineers announced each vote to the assembled conclave after each round.

Just one vote was held on Wednesday, but from Thursday onwards there will be four votes a day.

08:13 PM BST

Thats all for today

Thank you for following The Telegraphs live coverage of the first day of the conclave.

The 133 cardinals will continue to vote for a new pontiff on Thursday, when they will hold four separate ballots.

08:10 PM BST

Black smoke indicates no new pope

Black smoke has emerged from the chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel, indicating that a new pope has not been elected.

Black smoke rises from the chimney on the Sistine Chapel

People gather in St Peters Square on the first day of the conclave - Guglielmo Mangiapane

07:56 PM BST

Feverish speculation about delay

There is feverish speculation about why it is taking so long for smoke to emerge from the chimney on top of the Sistine Chapel.

One theory is that a 90-year-old cardinal who gave a meditation to the cardinals after the doors of the chapel were closed may have delivered a particularly long address.

The meditation is to be given by Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa.

Once delivered, he is to leave the chapel and let the voting begin.

07:34 PM BST

Still no sign of black smoke...

There is still no sign of black smoke coming from the chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel.

Tens of thousands have gathered to watch the chimney in St Peters Square.

07:04 PM BST

About 30,000 people gather to watch chimney

There are now around 30,000 people in and around St Peters Square, according to authorities.

The size of the crowd is increasing by the minute, according to Ansa, Italys national news agency.

People are straining to see the chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel, from which the smoke will emerge.

A seagull has become the unlikely star of the chimneys live video feed.

06:36 PM BST

All eyes on the chimney in St Peters Square

There is a sense of acute anticipation in St Peters Square as thousands of people fix their eyes on the chimney installed on top of the Sistine Chapel.

Smoke is yet to emerge.

The piazza and the avenue behind it are packed with people.

People are using their mobile phones to take videos and photos of the slim chimney.

At one point, it became almost impossible to see because the sun was directly behind it.

05:30 PM BST

Listen to our latest podcast

05:22 PM BST

Pictured: Papal master of ceremonies closes chapel doors

The doors are closed after Everyone out is called

05:16 PM BST

Thousands gather to watch the ceremony on screen

Thousands of people have gathered in St Peters Square to watch the proceedings, which have been streamed live on several large screens.

There was applause for the declaration of Extra omnes or Everyone out.

It would be perfect, lovely to be here for a new pope, said Irish tourist Catriona Hawe, 60.

Francis was brilliant, progressive, a man of the people, though he didnt move things forward as quickly as I would have liked, she said.

The Church wont be doing itself any favours if it elects someone conservative.

Besides outward displays of faith, the conclave has generated a festive atmosphere, with one young woman in the square sporting a black miniature poodle dressed as the pope.

A giant screen in St Peters Basilica shows cardinals inside the Sistine Chapel - AP

04:53 PM BST

A womans place is in the conclave

A group of women have lit pink smoke flares on a hill behind the Vatican on Wednesday in protest against the male-dominated Catholic church.

While the world may be waiting for white or black smoke, our pink smoke is a signal that women should be included in every aspect of the life of the Church, said Kate McElwee, the executive director of Womens Ordination Conference, adding, A womans place is in the conclave.

The women said they had been arrested in the past when bringing their protests closer to St Peters Square, leading them to hold the protest on the Ganicolo Hill behind the Vatican.

04:49 PM BST

Cardinals take oath of secrecy before conclave

The cardinals have taken an oath of secrecy in the Sistine Chapel before being locked into the conclave to vote for the next pope.

After reciting the oath in Latin, each of the 133 princes of the church advanced to the altar to take their personal vow, placing their hands on the Bible.

The cardinals pledged to maintain secrecy about what will transpire inside the chapel and to not allow any outside interference influence their voting.

When the rituals came to an end, the master of papal liturgical ceremonies, Archbishop Diego Ravelli, then called out extra omnes, which is Latin for all out.

Anyone not eligible to vote was then forced to leave and the chapel doors were closed, allowing the work to begin.

04:47 PM BST

Vatican official orders non-cardinals to leave Sistine Chapel

A Vatican official has said extra omnes, the Latin phrase to tell non-cardinals to leave the Sistine Chapel so voting can start.

04:39 PM BST

Frontrunners to become the next Pope

04:36 PM BST

Charming accents mark diversity of cardinals

The cardinals are continuing to take their oaths, which reporters in the Sistine Chapel have described as charming owing to the diversity in accents.

The current conclave to elect a new pope is notably diverse, with cardinals from as far afield as Mongolia and Tonga.

Almost every member of the College of Cardinals can understand Italian, and most can speak the language as well.

The official proceedings of a papal conclave are conducted in Latin and are translated into Italian.

03:45 PM BST

Cardinals chant Litany of the Saints as they file into chapel

Catholic cardinals have filed into the Sistine Chapel for the start of the conclave to elect Franciss successor.

As they processed into the chapel adorned with Michelangelos The Last Judgement, the 133 cardinals chanted the meditative Litany of the Saints.

The hymn implores the saints to help the cardinals find a new leader of the 1.4 billion-strong Catholic Church.

A line of Swiss Guards stood at attention as the cardinals took their turn to bow at the altar.

The doors will soon be closed

The cardinals arrve at the chapel

03:16 PM BST

Cardinal Timothy, of New York, shares a thought before the first vote

This is the day we enter the conclave and I'm about to go into the Domus Sanctae Marthae, named after St. Martha, who took care of hospitality for Jesus. We leave here and go over to the Sistine Chapel every day for prayers and voting, but this is where we reside. I won't be able pic.twitter.com/uO0zGdrwbo  Cardinal Dolan (@CardinalDolan) May 7, 2025

03:11 PM BST

Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin prays at Holy Mass

Cardinal Pietro Parolin - Anadolu

03:09 PM BST

Prayers for a young pope

Lisette Herrera, a 54-year-old tourist from the Dominican Republic, was deeply moved to find herself by chance in the heart of Roman Catholicism as the church plans to select a new pope.

On Wednesday morning, she decided to skip seeing the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain and other sites to pray in St Peters Square, even though she realises there is no telling how long the conclave could take.

Im praying the Holy Spirit for a young pope who would stay with us for a long time, she said. I dont believe in conclave politics, I just feel that the Holy Spirit is here and thats all we need to know.

02:41 PM BST

Pictured: Cardinals gather for the final mass

St Peters Basilica - AFP

02:26 PM BST

Salvadorian cardinal says new pontiff will continue the work of Francis

Cardinal Gregorio Rosa Chavez, from Salvador, said he did not think the cardinals would retreat from Francis vision for the Church.

There will not be a step backwards, Rosa Chavez, 82, told the Corriere della Sera newspaper.

It is not possible. Whoever is chosen, I think it will be a pope who continues the work begun by Francis, he said.

01:47 PM BST

Pictured: Nuns take part in celebrations near the Vatican

Nuns from Spain gather near the Vatican - Francisco Seco/AP

Nuns buy ice creams in Rome - Hannah McKay/REUTERS

01:38 PM BST

Diversity should be central to next Popes ethos, says senior cardinal

A senior cardinal has urged the cardinals who will vote in the conclave to elect a pope who prizes unity in diversity, and puts personal interests aside.

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, outlined the marching orders for the 133 men who will enter the Sistine Chapel.

In his sermon at the final pre-conclave Mass at St Peters Basilica, Re reminded the cardinals that a conclave represented the highest human and church responsibility, and that they must set aside every personal consideration.

He said the new pope should foster communion and unity within the church.

The new pope will face diplomatic balancing acts, as well as Church infighting, the continued fall-out from the clerical child abuse scandal, and increasingly empty pews.

Battista Re urged the cardinals to pray for a pope who knows how best to awaken the consciences of all... in todays society, characterised by great technological progress but which tends to forget God.

01:30 PM BST

Three British cardinals to vote

Three cardinals from Britain are taking part in the conclave this year.

Cardinals Vincent Nichols, Timothy Radcliffe and Rome-based Arthur Roche are among the 133 electors involved in selecting the next pontiff.

Cardinal Nichols, the leader of England and Wales Catholics and Archbishop of Westminster, had called on people to pray for the cardinals as they embark on the conclave, adding that he feels quite intimidated knowing the world is watching to see who they choose.

He said numerous lengthy pre-conclave meetings had allowed cardinals to get to know each other and to appreciate the variety of gifts, insights and dedication among us.

He added that cardinals are entering the meeting in a profound spirit of prayer and attentive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit who will, I am sure, guide our decisions.

The 79-year-old cardinal, from Liverpool, added: I do hope that Catholics and indeed all people will say a prayer asking for Gods blessing at this important moment.

He has previously effectively ruled himself out of the running to be the next pontiff, describing himself as too old, not capable.

Cardinal Radcliffe, 79, of the Oxford community, was made a cardinal by Pope Francis last December.

01:17 PM BST

Key timings to look out for this afternoon

2.45pm  Cardinals will begin to leave their rooms for a procession to the Sistine Chapel

3.10pm  Cardinals will gather to pray before heading to the chapel singing Veni Creator Spiritus (Come, Holy Spirit)

4.45pm  Oath of secrecy to be taken by the cardinals inside the chapel

6pm  Smoke expected after the first round of voting

01:00 PM BST

Thousands of police officers secure the Vatican

The Vaticans Swiss Guards and Italian Carabinieri have been mobilised as Rome moves to protect the cardinals and people who have amassed to watch the election in St Peters Square.

As of this morning, police were carrying out enhanced checks on people entering the area.

More than 4,000 officers have been deployed, with an anti-drone system and signal jammers to block communication between the cardinals and the outside world once they enter into their secret assembly.

The safety of the cardinals is a priority, but so is that of the faithful outside, said Fabio Ciciliano, the head of Italys Civil Protection agency.

12:34 PM BST

Pictured: Inside St Peters Basilica

The Holy Mass at St Peters Basilica in the Vatican - LESSANDRO DI MEO/EPA-EFE/SHUTTERSTOCK

The special Mass Pro eligendo papa or for the election of the Pope - VATICAN MEDIA

Cardinals file into St Peters church - VATICAN MEDIA/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

12:24 PM BST

Controversy over missing cardinal

As cardinals prepare to enter the Sistine Chapel for the conclave later today, there is controversy over one who is missing.

John Njue, a cardinal from Kenya, is not in Rome and claims he was not invited to the conclave.

At 79, he is eligible to vote in the election, which will decide who is the next pope.

But he will not be among the 133 cardinals who enter the Sistine Chapel this afternoon.

He claims he did not receive an official summons to Rome. The fact is that I have not been invited, he told the Kenyan press.

But the Holy See disputes that, insisting that they were told that the cardinal was too ill to travel from Kenya to Rome.

Matteo Bruni, the Vatican spokesman, said: Cardinal electors can participate de iure (by law). They dont need an invitation to be present.

The Catholic Church in Kenya also said the cardinal was ill. In a statement, Philip Anyolo, the archbishop of Nairobi, said that owing to his current health condition, His Eminence John Cardinal Njue will be unable to travel to Rome and take part in the conclave.

12:13 PM BST

Scheming cardinals plot to block another progressive pope

St Peters Square on the eve of a papal conclave is so busy, I almost trod on a nun. The little grey mouse squealed and ran away.

Thousands of Catholics are in town for the election of Franciss successor  willing, praying for the cardinals to make the correct choice.

Read the full analysis here

11:58 AM BST

How the voting works

The 133 cardinals who enter the Sistine Chapel this afternoon will hold just one vote as they decide who should be elected the successor to Pope Francis.

It is highly unlikely that they will come to a consensus with the first vote, so black smoke (signifying nobody has been elected) is expected to billow from the chimney that has been installed on the roof of the chapel.

The smoke is likely to emerge sometime after 7pm local time (6pm in the UK), according to Matteo Bruni, the Vatican spokesman.

After today, there will be four votes a day until a pope is elected.

Nobody knows how long the process will take...apart from the Holy Spirit, perhaps.

White smoke will signal that the new pope has been chosen.

11:54 AM BST

A visual guide to the election

The process to choose the new pontiff is laden with rituals and traditions.

Each day, dressed in striking scarlet robes, cardinals will make their way from their lodgings in Casa Santa Marta to the chapel, where votes are cast beneath the frescoes.

Heres our visual guide of how the cardinals will spend the next few days in the conclave.

Map data: Google

11:46 AM BST

Pictured: St Peters Square as the Holy Mass is celebrated

St Peters Square in The Vatican - STEFANO RELLANDINI/AFP

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re leads the Holy Mass this morning - Murad Sezer/REUTERS

A man prays in St Peters Square - Eloisa Lopez/REUTERS

11:39 AM BST

Pictured: Sistine Chapel ready to host the papal conclave

The Sistine Chapel - X

11:34 AM BST

What is a conclave?

The conclave is the arcane process of choosing the next pope.

Cardinals from around the world will gather beneath the frescoed ceilings of the Sistine Chapel in the heart of the Vatican, where they will vote for Pope Franciss successor by secret ballot.

The chapel will have been swept for bugs and other recording devices and cardinals will be banned from using laptops or mobile phones.

For the last conclave in 2013, which followed the historic resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, an oath of secrecy was taken by members of the Swiss Guard and Vatican gendarmerie, the city states police force, as well as the doctors and nurses who assisted elderly or infirm cardinals.

A Vatican master of ceremonies will pronounce the words Extra omnes (Everyone out), ordering staff and aides to leave the chapel so that only the cardinal electors remain.

11:30 AM BST

Whats happened today so far?

Cardinals attended a morning mass at St. Peters Basilica where the dean of the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re, led the prayers.

During the service Cardinal Re, 91, called for electors to find the wisdom, counsel and understanding to choose a worthy new shepherd.

The mass has now concluded and electors have returned to their residences to rest for a few hours ahead of the conclave.

Later in the afternoon, the Vatican has said that all communications around the Holy See will be jammed as they prepare to withdraw from the outside world for their secret and sacred task ahead.

The cardinals are likely to cast their first vote later in 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.
The East Lansing Community Solar Park. The park went online in 2019 and was built on top of a retired landfill at Burcham Park. | Kyle Davidson

Michigan has 24,000 known contaminated sites, a legacy of heavy manufacturing where industries carelessly discarded hazardous materials with minimal regulatory oversight. Taxpayers are often left to clean up these abandoned locations, known as brownfields, while the sheer volume of toxic sites has overwhelmed state regulators.

With a little effort, these spaces can be more than a permanent blight on the landscape. Kelly Thayer, senior policy advocate with the states Environmental Law & Policy Center, envisions a future where Michigans brownfields are transformed into sites for diverse solar energy projects.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The potential for new solar siting in Michigan aligns with growing nationwide support of the technology, according to a survey co-led by the University of Michigan. Among residents living within three miles of solar energy developments, positive opinions about the projects outnumbered negative ones by almost a 3-to-1 ratio.

For the study, a large-scale solar project was defined as a ground-mounted photovoltaic system that generates one megawatt or more of direct current. The majority of respondents lived near new greenfield solar sitesdisturbed industrial locations or retiring coal plants were strongly preferred for solar development over forests or productive farmland.

Thayer, from Frankfort on the shores of Lake Michigan, said there is already precedent for solar on former industrial land in his home state. A 120-megawatt solar array on a long-vacant mining operation in Michigans Upper Peninsula, for example, was met by residents with little controversy.

Yet, a Michigan Department of Natural Resources proposal to transition a former oil-and-gas plot in Gaylord to solar energy was met with substantial public backlash in January. Following resident protests against tree and grassland removal for the solar array, the agency extended the public comment period and halted state land leases for solar projects.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This limbo period gives Michigan a chance to readjust its solar siting approach, with an emphasis on distressed lands that would allow the technology to flourish, Thayer said.

The work now is to chart the near-term future of how Michiganders get their energy, said Thayer, whose advocacy group focuses on renewable energy and clean transportation solutions for the Midwest. This can be talked about through the lens of climate or the environment, but the public health ramifications are enormous as well.

A Vital Asset

Last year, the state of Michigan won a $129 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for utility-scale renewable energy projects, including those on brownfields. These orphan industrial plotslandfills, auto plants and other properties left to molder by private industryare vital assets for a state seeking to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, noted Thayer.

Michigan aims to be a national climate action leader, driven by Gov. Gretchen Whitmers 2050 carbon neutrality goals. Among the tenets of the MI Healthy Climate Plan is streamlining the siting process for wind, solar and battery storage projects. State legislation like Senate Bill 277, meanwhile, includes solar facilities as a permitted use for farmers under the Farmland and Open Space Preservation Act.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thayers organization, the Environmental Law & Policy Center, also views retiring coal plants as potential solar energy hubs, considering that they are already connected to the energy grid. For instance, the organization helped develop a blueprint for the Dan E. Karn coal plant site, slated as the future home for an 85-megawatt solar energy site expected to be operational in 2026.

These are flat, highly-disturbed sites that also have a substation in place thats hard-wired to the grid, Thayer said. Having that infrastructure saves millions in development, and saves time because it takes four or five years to add new energy resources to the grid.

Some Michigan clean energy projects are hindered by years-long grid connection delays as well as restrictive zoning ordinances that impede their development. In addition, Michigan lacks a comprehensive database of brownfields that detail key characteristics sought by solar developers, said Julie Lowe, brownfield coordinator for the remediation and redevelopment division of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).

Developers will have to use multiple resources to site projects on known sites of contamination, said Lowe. They need databases for tree canopy cover, or have to do site reconnaissance to eyeball the slope and see if it fits their needs.

An Array of Solar Options

EGLE does offer a list of guidelines for anyone asking to purchase a contaminated property for renewable energy development. Prospective buyers must conduct a two-phase Baseline Environmental Assessment before moving ahead with a project. Due diligence may encompass a deep dive into a sites former use, as well as comprehensive testing of soil or groundwater samples.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You may have to go back to the 19th century to determine what the property was used for, Lowe said. And there might be drilling or radar work needed to see if theres something in the ground. For brownfields, we see solvents [in the soil] for dry cleaning or auto repair, because those were chemicals used in those activities.

Various brownfield incentives and programs may subsidize environmental remediation or any additional assessment a site requires, added Lowe. EGLEs Brownfield Tax Increment Financing utilizes the rise in tax revenue from a revitalized site to reimburse developers for the cleanup and demolition work that generated that increase.

That is not to say developers should always foot the bill, said Thayer. A series of polluter pay lawswhich force parties responsible for contamination to pay for site cleanup and remediation costsare currently being proposed by Michigan lawmakers. Thayer also advocates for virtual power plant programs, enabling utilities to pay homeowners with solar and battery storage to contribute stored power during peak demand.

Community solar, which involves installing arrays on vacant lots or working farmlands, can be another multi-billion-dollar boon for Michigan, said Thayer. According to a 2021 study by Michigan State University, community solar could deliver a nearly $1.5 billion boost to the states economy over the next 30 years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For now, Michigan officials should prioritize cleaning up and advancing solar energy projects on the states innumerable polluted brownfields, said Sarah Mills, a University of Michigan researcher who directs the Center for EmPowering Communities at the Graham Sustainability Institute.

I go to meetings about large renewables projects, and its mostly for farmland, said Mills. People will say, Why here, why not a brownfield? From a community acceptance perspective, this is what most people consider a no-brainer.

This article originally appeared on Inside Climate News, a nonprofit, non-partisan news organization that covers climate, energy and the environment. Sign up for their newsletter here.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and To Lam, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, signed a Joint Statement on the Establishment of a Strategic Partnership between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Trend reports.

A document exchange ceremony between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam was held on May 7 with the participation of President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam.

Additional documents were exchanged.

Will be updated
Stearns Countys newest K-9 officer is a bundle of enthusiasm. What else would you expect from a 10-month-old bloodhound?

Porter recently joined the Stearns County Sheriffs Office after a two-week extensive training course with his handler, Deputy Scott Fischer, in early April at Edisto Island, South Carolina.

Deputy Scott Fischer and Porter, a new K-9 officer, are officers with Stearns County Sherriff's office.

Hes got a lot of puppy energy, but he loves to work, Fischer said of Porter, who will turn 1 year old on July 4.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Whether its searching for a lost child or tracking a suspect, this new team will add to the capacity of the department. Stearns County has three other K-9s, one of which is a 6-year-old Storm, a bloodhound who works with Deputy Laura Berg. The other K-9s include a German shepherd and a Belgian Malinois.

Those are the more typical K-9s that you think of, dual purpose dogs who patrol and detect, Fischer said. Its not super common in this part of the country to have bloodhounds, but theyre very good at tracking and they have a different demeanor so, in a case where you might be searching for a little kid you dont have to worry about him biting.

More: Cold Spring K-9 Officer Cash retires after 7 years of police service

Under the direction of Stearns County Sheriff Steve Soyka, K-9s have become a priority. The department staggers their induction so they have a range of ages among the dogs, which typically work until they are 8 to 10 years old. Porter has essentially replaced Freddie, who recently retired after working with a different deputy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The K-9s can be called into action throughout Central Minnesota as not all counties have trained dogs.

More: You're Not Alone nonprofit brings therapy dogs to St. Cloud schools

Fischer, 28, joined the sheriffs department in 2023 after working five years in North Dakota and Minnesota as a registered nurse. Originally from the area, he studied at Concordia College in Moorhead before working at hospitals in Fargo and Brainerd.

I started working before COVID, but even then I knew nursing might not be a long-term thing for me, he said. Id been thinking about law enforcement initially because I was interested in being a conservation officer with the DNR. I went back to school in an accelerated program at Central Lakes College for people who already have undergraduate degrees. With about 10 months training and a lot of hands-on experience, I was able to restart my career.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fischer said hed been thinking about taking on a K-9 from the moment he began working as a deputy.

I always had a high interest, and once I got here, I found K-9 work attractive, he said. Theres a reason any seasoned law enforcement officer develops a real bond with these dogs. Im basically with Porter every minute of the day, whether were working or not.

Fischers squad is specially equipped to carry the dog. Porter rides in the back seat, in a kennel directly behind the driver that is walled off from the right side of the rear of the vehicle, so Fischer can still transport a person if necessary. The left rear window is equipped with a fan, and sensors identify the inside air temperature. If it becomes warm, the window automatically retracts and the fan kicks in.

In the event Fischer is outside the vehicle and the ambient temperatures and air conditioning dont counteract the heat of the summer, the squad will chirp its siren and lights to remind him or other officers to make sure Porter can get where its cooler. Indoor kennels are also available for when Fischer is at the law enforcement center.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Both Fischer and Porter are certified in urban and rural tracking, but Porters education is constantly evolving. Fischer looks for opportunities daily to test and correct the dogs scent tracking. Recently, they two officers responded to a call about dead livestock and Fischer used the opportunity to have a colleague lay down a scent nearby in order to teach Porter not to be distracted by the scent from the dead animal.

Most of his training so far has been around pets, dogs and cats, and in an urban setting, Fischer said. I need to keep working with him so that if were out tracking something and he runs across the scent of a squirrel, he doesnt forget what hes supposed to be looking for.

Fischer said the two-week training in South Carolina was mostly to benefit the handler with their new dog. Porter came from a Georgia-based breeder and was among the puppies Georgia K-9 NTC tested for susceptibility to a hunt drive and their ability to hone in on human odor.

Like his partner, Porter is always on call but doesnt have to be constantly on duty. He lives with Fischer, who is married and has two young children.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He loves it, and hes real good with the kids, Fischer said. He probably wont be fully grown until hes about 2, so its important for him to have a chance to play and be a puppy, too. Our family has really taken him in and hes one of us now. He wont be a K-9 forever. The day will come when he gets to just be a dog and enjoy the later part of his life. But were pretty excited about whats ahead.

If youd like to meet Porter and/or Deputy Fischer, they will make a public appearance from 4-8 p.m. on June 12 at the Benton County Fairgrounds as part of a Handshakes with Heroes reception for local law enforcement and first responders.

Ive been amazed at the feedback and the reaction people have had with him, Fischer said. Its through community donations and fundraising that were able to take on these dogs, and were really looking forward to paying back that respect for the community we serve.

This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: Stearns County Sheriffs Office adds 4th K-9 team to agency lineup
Sen. Nick Frentz, DFL-North Mankato, talks with Sen. Judy Seeberger, DFL-Afton, before a committee hearing on Jan. 29, 2025. (Photo by A.J. Olmscheid/Senate Media Services)

Six self-described Blue Dog Senate Democrats voted with Republicans on Tuesday to weaken the paid sick leave law they supported just two years ago and repeal the benefit for tens of thousands of workers at small farms and micro-businesses.

The bill would need to pass the House and win the signature of Gov. Tim Walz  neither assured  before becoming law.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Still, the vote marks a significant departure from the past two years, when Senate Democrats voted in lock-step to pass a sweeping pro-labor agenda with a single-seat majority.

Its okay to pass laws and vote yes and then learn more information and make changes, Sen. Grant Hauschild, DFL-Hermantown, said during Tuesdays debate. Thats not a shameful thing. Thats not weak. Thats strong.

Democrats passed the sick and safe time law in 2023, entitling workers to one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours they work up to 48 hours a year  i.e. six paid sick days a year for full-time employees.

The bill (SF2300) carves out farms with five or fewer employees and other businesses with three or fewer employees.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bill also allows employers to request proof of an illness or safety emergency after two consecutive days, down from three under current law. Under the bill, employers would only have to follow the sick and safe time requirements  such as documentation restrictions or allowing its use for a protected activity like emergency counseling  for 160 hours a year. The paid time off that employers provide beyond 160 hours would only be subject to their internal policies or union labor contracts.

Sen. Judy Seeberger, DFL-Afton, who represents a purple district in the east metro suburbs, led the effort to pass what she called modest, common sense improvements that help small businesses while maintaining sick leave protections for the vast majority of the states 3 million workers.

Im proud of the earned sick and safe time law we passed because Ive experienced what its like to be a worker without it, Seeberger said, ticking off her experiences as a waitress, lawyer, small business owner and paramedic.

But she also said she needs to be responsive to constituents and has heard from many employers about workers abusing the law by using sick leave to extend a vacation or a weekend.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Other Democrats blasted the bill and pointed out that no matter the size of the farm or business, workers are just as likely to get sick or have to care for a sick child or be a victim of sexual assault or stalking.

Senate Labor Committee Chair Jen McEwen, DFL-Duluth, said it was shameful that the farmworker carve out received support from members of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, putting the emphasis on farmer and labor.

These farmworkers are some of the least protected, powerless workers in our society, McEwen said, noting that farmworkers are excluded from many of the same rights guaranteed to other workers like the right to form a union.

The small farm exemption would affect between 5,000 and 27,0000 workers, McEwen said. The carve-out for micro-businesses would affect between 50,000 to 80,000 workers, Seeberger said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No one  not a farmworker, not a tradesperson, not a nurse, not a teacher  no worker in our economy should be fired or disciplined or risk the ability to provide for their family because of a short-term illness that they have, because of the need to care for a sick family member, or because theyve suffered domestic abuse or sexual abuse or stalking, McEwen said.

Supporters of the exemption for small farms said it was critical to protecting family farms as they fend off corporate consolidation and confront myriad other regulations.

We are losing our family farmer, Hauschild said. Family farms are dying.

DFL Sen. Nick Frentz, DFL-North Mankato co-authored the bill with Seeberger and Republican Sens. Jordan Rasmusson and Gene Dornink.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

DFL Sen. Matt Klein, who announced Tuesday hes running for Congress in the 2nd District, voted with DFL Sens. Robert Kupec, Aric Putnam, Frentz, Hauschild and Seeberger for the bill. Sen. Jim Abeler was the lone Republican to vote against the bill.

Frentz has also authored a bill with Republicans watering down the states paid family leave program slated to begin next year. Seeberger was also an author but recently had her name stricken.

The term Blue Dog Democrat and the related Yellow Dog Democrat have their origins among moderate, southern Democrats who retained loyalty to the party despite its shift left but often voted with Republicans to help pass the agenda of President Ronald Reagan, for instance.
Michael Pitt in 2024. - Credit: Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images

Michael Pitt, the actor best known for his roles in Dawsons Creek and Boardwalk Empire, was arrested last week and charged with sexual abuse and assault in New York City.

Pitt was arrested Friday and arraigned on the charges in Brooklyn Supreme Court. Hes facing eight counts total, including two counts of first-degree sexual abuse, assault with a blunt object, and strangulation.

More from Rolling Stone

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to online court records, Pitt pleaded not guilty to all the charges against him and was released on $15,000 bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for June 17.

Jason Goldman, a lawyer for Pitt, told Rolling Stone, Unfortunately, we live in a world where somebody like Mr. Pitt  an accomplished professional who would never so much as contemplate these crimes  can be arrested on the uncorroborated word of an unhinged individual. In reality, this baseless claim is suspiciously raised some four or five years after the alleged incident, at a time when the two parties were in a completely consensual and voluntary relationship. This case will be dismissed.

According to court documents obtained by the New York Post  which was the first to report on Pitts arrest  the charges against the actor stem from four alleged incidents involving an ex-girlfriend that occurred between April 2020 and August 2021. Pitt is accused of forcibly groping his ex on one occasion, and sexually assaulting her and hitting her with a wooden plank on another. Prosecutors also alleged that Pitt assaulted his ex with a cinderblock in June 2021 and strangled her in August of that year.

The Brooklyn District Attorneys Office did not immediately return Rolling Stones request for comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pitt was previously arrested in July 2022 for assault and petty larceny after allegedly hitting a man several times and taking his phone. He was hospitalized a few months later after being accused of throwing items at people in the Bushwick neighborhood of Brooklyn. He was not charged with a crime in that instance as the police determined that he was emotionally disturbed.

Best of Rolling Stone

Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Boardwalk Empire actor Michael Pitt has been arrested in New York on sexual abuse charges.

Pitt was arrested May 2. Charges against him include two counts of first-degree sexual abuse, assault injury with a blunt object, and second-degree strangulation.

The charges stem from four alleged domestic disputes involving his ex-girlfriend that occurred between April 2020 and August 2021, according to the New York Post.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pitt pleaded not guilty to all charges against him. He was released after posting $15,000 bail, the Post reported. Hes slated to appear in court June 17.

In the four separate incidents, Pitt allegedly sexually assaulted and attacked his ex-girlfriend with a cement block and chunk of wood at his Brooklyn home, according to records obtained by the Post. He then allegedly strangled her in August 2021.

Attorney Jason Goldman told The Independent: Unfortunately, we live in a world where somebody like Mr. Pitt  an accomplished professional who would never so much as contemplate these crimes  can be arrested on the uncorroborated word of an unhinged individual. In reality, this baseless claim is suspiciously raised some four or five years after the alleged incident, at a time when the two parties were in a completely consensual and voluntary relationship. This case will be dismissed.

Michael Pitt has been arrested on sexual abuse charges (Lila Seeley/Getty Images)

Pitt was previously arrested in 2022 and hit with assault and petty larceny charges for allegedly hitting a man and taking his cell phone.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He was reportedly hospitalized later that year after throwing items at people from the roof of a building, according to the Post.

In addition to his work on Boardwalk Empire, Pitt is known for playing Henry Parker on 15 episodes of Dawsons Creek between 1999 and 2000.

His film credits include Hedwig and the Angry Inch, The Dreamers, and Last Days. He also appeared in Ghost in the Shell opposite Scarlett Johansson.

In 2023, Pitt starred in several films, including Asphalt City, Reptile and Day of the Fight.

Pitt is also slated to appear in three upcoming projects, including the true crime drama You Can't Win, adapted from outlaw Jack Blacks 1926 memoir. Pitt will star as Black.
Michael Pitt, star of Boardwalk Empire, is facing nine criminal charges in a grand jury indictment filed in Brooklyn

The incidents occurred back in 2020 and 2021, and include claims or oral sex without consent, forcible touching, and assault using a four-by-four

Pitt entered a not guilty plea to all nine counts and his lawyers said he will be vindicated in court

Michael Pitt is facing a number of criminal charges after being arraigned in a Brooklyn courtroom last week.

The Boardwalk Empire star was arrested on May 2 and arraigned later that same day according to court records.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A copy of the grand jury indictment obtained by PEOPLE shows that the alleged incidents occurred on four dates between April 2020 and August 2021.

It is unclear if the alleged victim is the same person in every incident as all names have been redacted in the indictment.

Pitt entered a not guilty plea to all nine counts.

On or around April 19, 2020, prosecutors allege Pitt touched his finger to the anus and vagina of an individual "by means of forcible compulsion," per the indictment.

Hbo/Kobal/Shutterstock

On Aug. 5, 2020, Pitt allegedly engaged in oral sex with an individual by means of forcible compulsion and without their consent according to the indictment. That same day he also allegedly assaulted an individual with a piece of wood.

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.

In June 2021, Pitt allegedly attempted to cause harm to an individual with a cinderblock. He then allegedly strangled someone that August.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The charges in full are: first- and third-degree criminal sexual act, two counts of first-degree sexual abuse, two counts of second-degree assault, two counts of second-degree attempted assault, and second-degree strangulation.

First-degree criminal sexual abuse, the top charge, carries a sentence of five to 25 years in prison if found guilty.

Pitt's lawyer Cary London told PEOPLE that her client will be vindicated in court, saying: "Unfortunately, we live in a world where somebody like Mr. Pitt  an accomplished professional who would never so much as contemplate these crimes  can be arrested on the uncorroborated word of an unhinged individual. We look forward to proving his innocence through the evidence and not thru the media.

Pitt shot to fame as a teenager with his role as Henry Parker on the show Dawson's Creek, before going on to appear in critically acclaimed films including The Dreamers and Funny Games.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He became well known thanks to his work in Boardwalk Empire playing gangster Jimmy Darmody, but left halfway through the show's run.

Pitt is due back in court on June 17.

Read the original article on People
Boardwalk Empire star Michael Pitt was arrested in New York City last week on charges of sexual abuse and physical assault, according to court documents.

Pitt was arraigned last Friday in Brooklyn and faces criminal charges including two counts each of first-degree sexual abuse, second-degree assault and attempted second-degree assault, as well as one count each of a first-degree criminal sexual act, a third-degree criminal sexual act and second-degree strangulation.

The actor is accused of attacking his then-girlfriend in four separate incidents in 2020 and 2021, the New York Post reported Tuesday, citing court documents alleging that he sexually assaulted her, strangled her and hit her with a cement block and a piece of wood on different occasions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pitt pleaded not guilty to all charges and was released after posting $15,000 bail.

Actor Michael Pitt was previously arrested in July 2022 on assault and larceny charges for allegedly hitting a man and taking his phone. PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA/AFP/Getty Images

Unfortunately, we live in a world where somebody like Mr. Pitt  an accomplished professional who would never so much as contemplate these crimes  can be arrested on the uncorroborated word of an unhinged individual, Pitts lawyer Jason Goldman told Variety.

In reality, this baseless claim is suspiciously raised some four or five years after the alleged incident, at a time when the two parties were in a completely consensual and voluntary relationship, the attorney continued. This case will be dismissed.

Representatives for Pitt did not immediately respond to HuffPosts request for comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The actor was previously arrested in July 2022 on assault and larceny charges for allegedly hitting a man and taking his phone. Pitt was placed on an involuntary psychological hold a few months later after reportedly throwing items at people from a rooftop in Bushwick.

The incident was treated as a mental health problem and resulted in no criminal charges.

Pitts next court appearance is currently scheduled for June 17.

Need help? Visit RAINNs National Sexual Assault Online Hotline or the National Sexual Violence Resource Centers website.

Related...
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. As a result of our joint efforts, there is strong potential for cooperation between Azerbaijan and Vietnam in areas such as trade, economy, culture, education, energy, transport, and others. Today, these and other matters were discussed in detail, said President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev at a joint press conference with General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam To Lam has kicked off, Trend reports.

Statement by President Ilham Aliyev

- Dear Mr. General Secretary,

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

Dear Mr. General Secretary, allow me to welcome you to Azerbaijan again. Welcome to our country! Your visit is of great importance for the development of Vietnamese-Azerbaijani relations. I am sure that the results of the visit will be successful and the agreements reached will translate into concrete projects. Among the documents signed today, I would like to specifically mention the Joint Declaration on a Strategic Partnership between Azerbaijan and Vietnam. This is a very serious political document. In fact, it is a document that will elevate Vietnamese-Azerbaijani relations to a higher level. I am convinced that these high-level relations will play a very important role in our bilateral cooperation in the future. As you can see, the documents signed today cover a number of areas. The negotiations we held and the agreements reached today give reason to say that we have taken a very serious step in the direction of mutual cooperation. The signing of these documents within the framework of the state visit of the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam to Azerbaijan certainly enhances their importance even more.

As a result of our joint efforts, there is a very serious potential for cooperation in trade, economy, culture, education, energy, transport and other areas. Issues related to these and other areas were extensively discussed today. The documents signed in the energy sector and, in general, the discussions we have held give reason to say that we will further expand our cooperation in this area in the near future. Today, this cooperation exists and is carried out mostly in the form of trade cooperation. However, issues related mutual investment were also discussed. We talked about investment by Vietnamese companies in Azerbaijan and the Azerbaijani oil company in Vietnam, and instructions were given for relevant agencies take concrete steps regarding these issues.

The upcoming meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission will further accelerate possible cooperation in these and other areas. The Commission has not met for many years, and the issue of convening a meeting of the Commission soon has been resolved on the basis of the agreement reached.

Unfortunately, the dynamics of trade in the economic and trade sectors depends on Azerbaijan's oil sales to Vietnam. When oil sales are high, trade increases, and when they drop, it decreases too. Of course, we would like to see our trade become more balanced, and to achieve this, information exchange is necessary, of course. What projects are implemented in our countries, what investment opportunities there are, what rules, legislative framework, tax administration there are  all these issues should be clear to business circles. If this is the case, I am sure that trade will not depend on the oil factor alone.

Today, we also exchanged views on the production of renewable energy. I told our distinguished guest that Azerbaijan has ample opportunities and potential in this area. The signed contracts will provide us with 6,500 megawatts of new and clean energy capacity in five years. We have invited Vietnamese companies to invest. I also stated that the Azerbaijani side is ready to invest in renewable energy in Vietnam.

There are great prospects in the defense industry. This sector is sufficiently developed in both countries. Here, too, joining efforts, creating joint ventures and mutual cooperation can be beneficial.

Our joint activities in international organizations are also very reassuring. Vietnam seriously supported Azerbaijan in the UN Security Council several years ago, and we are grateful for that. We are also working together within the framework of the Non-Aligned Movement. Azerbaijan chaired this institution for four years and left a very good mark. Today, the activity of the Non-Aligned Movement as an even more robust institution is in the interest of both countries.

Today, we also exchanged views on international law, and there is no disagreement here either. All issues should be resolved on the basis of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and inviolability of borders of countries, i.e. within the framework of international law. All controversial issues should be resolved through negotiations and peacefully.

In other words, during our discussions on many fronts today, we see that there are no differences of opinion. On the contrary, we almost speak from a unified position. There are many similarities in our views. Although the distance between us is quite large, we also talked about the transport infrastructure projects that connect us. We can encourage mutual trade through both the North-South and East-West transport corridors. In a nutshell, I am sure that the visit will yield very good results. This is the first time that our esteemed guest has visited Azerbaijan. Although the visit is short in terms of time, it is quite rich in terms of content. Today, our work will be continued. Tomorrow, the esteemed General Secretarys visit will be continued as well. I am sure that he will return to his homeland from Azerbaijan with the most pleasant impressions.

Welcome again, esteemed Mr. General Secretary. I wish you and all our Vietnamese comrades continued success, good health, and happiness.
The Boise City Council made the Pride flag a city flag Tuesday to get around a new state law.

The Legislature earlier this year banned most flags from flying on government property, but left an exception for the official flag of a governmental entity.

Cheers, boos and expletives erupted from the crowd during the rowdy meeting. Five of Boises council members voted yes on the resolution  saying that everyone was welcome and safe in Boise. Luci Willits, the lone no vote, said she felt the city had to uphold the law and that constituents didnt want the change.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I know that people who identify with this flag want to be seen, Willits told the waiting crowd inside the meeting. I want you to know that I see you, even if I disagree with having this be an official flag.

The city also designated a National Donate Life Month banner as an official flag, meaning Boise now has three official flags. The resolution itself says an official flag is any one the mayor declares as official.

Some council members focused on the economic and emotional benefits of having a pro-LGBTQ+ city.

Council President Colin Nash said he empathized with people who are afraid of being open to the world.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There are so many folks that live lives of quiet desperation, every single day in our community, who carry with them a secret, Nash said. I hope just once that the city of Boises flag, that someone will see that and know that they are not alone.

As the officials spoke, audience members interrupted and argued among themselves, including complaints that the city didnt take public comment on the change. The resolution was on the consent agenda, which typically doesnt include time for comments.

Over an hour before the meeting, dozens of protesters and observers were filling up the spaces between police barricades in front of City Hall.

Garrett Richardson, who said he identifies as gay, came to the meeting to speak in opposition. He said he has voted Democrat but feels politically homeless right now, and he views the flag as signaling support for liberal causes more than the LGBTQ+ community.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said Boise should focus on concrete actions to help LGBTQ+ Boiseans, like expanding sexually transmitted infection prevention and treatment services.

I was born and raised here and I experienced a ton of homophobia in school, Richardson said. I dont think any flag could ever fix that.

Other people came to the event to show support for LGTBQ+ children.

At least one other city in Idaho is trying to find a way around the new law, which also allows for displaying the U.S. flag, flags of any state, flags of any U.S. military branches and units, the POW/MIA flag, flags of Indian tribes and flags of Idaho public schools, colleges and universities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

An hour after Boises city council meeting started, Bonners Ferry councilors gathered to discuss their longtime display of the Canadian flag. The flag is a sign of friendship and a recognition of Canadian tourisms impact on the economy, Bonners Ferry City Attorney Andrakay Pluid wrote in a memo.

Once the law was in place, the Idaho Attorney Generals Office contacted Bonners Ferry asking the city to take down the Canadian flag, according to the online council agenda. The Attorney Generals Office declined to comment.

Pluid presented three options to the council: The two simplest options were to keep flying the flag and risk a lawsuit or stop flying it. However, the city also could use part of the law allowing flags to commemorate special occasions and declare a year-round special occasion recognizing the relationship with Canada, the city attorney said.

Its an untested issue, Pluid wrote in a memo to the council.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bonners Ferrys council voted to implement the year-round special occasion and immediately raised the towns Canadian flag at the town entrance on Main Street, KXLY reported.

Cities have been grappling with the law since it went into effect April 3, in part because it has no enforcement mechanism. Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador also sent a letter to the city of Boise warning of potential consequences. Recently, the city announced several lawyers had volunteered to represent the city pro bono if theres legal action about the flags.

Thad Butterworth, chairman of the Ada County Republicans, told the Statesman he thought the bill was reasonable in its attempt to eliminate partisanship from government entities. However, Butterworth said he was concerned that legislators hadnt included a way to enforce the law. Several Ada County Republicans were planning to attend the meeting unofficially, he said.

Even as the council members moved on to more mundane business, protesters kept arguing outside. A local right-wing provocateur tried to burn a Pride flag on a cross, but ultimately left. People hurled insults as the police started taking down the barricades.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Eventually the crowd dispersed. All that was left were chalk messages, reading Rainbows are 4 everyone and love wins.

Earlier, Becky Prew had sat among the sidewalk designs, wearing a pride shirt. She came to support her LGBTQ+ son, who had moved away from Idaho because of homophobia.

During the Legislative session, photographs given to legislators on the House floor included the Pride flags at Boise City Hall.

I think its unfortunate. I mean I dont think were a city that should be so divided. We were never like this, Prew said. I dont understand why (LGBTQ+ people) are the target of this.

Boise-area sheriff criticizes a new Idaho law he says police cant enforce

Boise is still flying Pride flag. Citing new law, Idaho AG sends warning letter
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  Bond was set Wednesday at $200,000 for a man who reports said ran from police following a December gunfire call and was not found until this week.

Read next: Ruling made on cause of missing Warren mans death

Jose Zayas, 34, was arraigned in municipal court before Magistrate Donna McCallum on a charge of felonious assault, a second-degree felony, as well as separate charges from 2019 for felonious assault and aggravated burglary, a first-degree felony.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Zayas was taken into custody this week by members of the U.S. Marshals Northern Ohio Fugitive Task Force.

A warrant was filed Jan. 25 charging Zayas with firing two shots at a man about 2:50 p.m. at a home in the 800 block of Stiles Avenue.

Reports said when police arrived, they saw Zayas run into a car, and he was ordered out at gunpoint.

Zayas got out of the car but ran toward Lansdowne Boulevard, reports said. Police were not able to catch him.

Officers did find a semiautomatic handgun in the direction that Zayas was running, reports said.

A family member of Zayas told police Zayas got mad and shot at him when he said he wanted Zayas to start paying him rent.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The family member was not injured.

Details of the charges in the 2019 case are not 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 WKBN.com.
NEW MEXICO (KRQE)  Family traditions typically center around recipes, vacations, and holiday gatherings, but one Albuquerque family does things a little differently; the Aurand familys traditions involve electrical engineering, science, and machine learning. Underneath their collective brilliance lies a bond greater than anything science could explain.

It is not just his work at Verus Research that has John Aurand beaming from ear to ear. This is an unbelievable blessing. I couldnt be prouder of my boys or my daughter, Nicole, and how theyve grown up and who theyve become, said Aurand. He has the unique opportunity to keep tabs on how his sons, Matthew and Joshua, are doing each day; the men work just down the hall from John, making research and engineering a family affair. The fact that I was here at Verus when each of them happened to be looking for jobs themselves was simply coincidental, said Aurand.

In 1987, John relocated his growing family from Iowa to New Mexico, accepting a position at Sandia National Laboratories. I think, 100 years ago, I would have just been a university professor. Right? Always learning, teaching students  thats been a joy of mine in my career, said Aurand.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Working as an electrical engineer requires great attention to detail and devoted time; Johns love of his work may be why his sons gravitated toward the field as well, but he is quick to point out that he never pushed them in any certain direction. I wanted them to grow up as themselves, said Aurand. However, both sons ended up sharing Johns foundational interest in mathematics and engineering. Matthew discovered his interest in engineering as a kid, even decking out his car with a custom audio setup in high school. Joshua felt the gravitational pull a bit later in life, switching majors from business to applied mathematics in college and going on to obtain advanced and postdoc training.

Verus Research is a team of scientists who bring their collective talents together to tackle 21st-century problems. Their work in high-powered microwaves, electromagnetic simulation and analysis, and nuclear systems analysis requires the best minds in the field. A requirement that the Aurand family fulfills with their combined decades of training and development.

Matt is really the do-er, said Joshua. He makes things work. He creates stuff. I like to just sit behind a whiteboard, do a little bit of math. Joshua explained that his dads work in more formal mathematics fascinated him when he was younger. He would start doing things, deriving things, coming up with insights. And I was really fascinated  how this actually connects to the real world. Matthew and Joshuas divergent interests now work in harmony at Verus.

Matthew designs electrical systems ranging from large-scale jobs to small circuit boards. Joshuas focus is on software development, AI, and space autonomy. Despite their differing projects, focus, and expertise, the main tie that binds these scientists is family. For me, as a proud father, to see Matthew grow up to be a mature man; my daughter, Nicole, grow up to be a wonderful mom, person; and Joshua as well. I never in my whole life thought any of my kids would work where I work, at least, right? Thats the coincidental thing about Verus for the three of us, said John.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its a stroke of incredible timing, as well as decades of hard work and training, but the emotional reward is something that science and engineering may never be able to explain.

About New Mexico Frontiers

New Mexico is the doorway to the new frontier  leading the way into the future of Aerospace, Bio-science, Renewable Energy, Digital Media and Film, Advanced Manufacturing, and so much more. Join us as Chad Brummett and New Mexico Frontiers profile the movers and shakers from our state who are changing the world.

New Mexico Frontiers celebrates the enterprising spirit of the states businesses, scientists, creators, and entrepreneurs.

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 KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
Knucklehead preppies at Manhattans elite Collegiate School last week pulled a senior prank by setting up a fake border checkpoint in the lobby and demanding to see classmates papers as a mariachi band played.

The tone-deaf stunt at the $65,900-a-year all-boys Upper West Side prep school lit up a Facebook group of local moms at first puzzled by the musicians playing outside while surrounded by teens waving American flags  with some of the mothers thinking it was a May Day or pre-Cinco de Mayo celebration.

A thread on the UWS Mommas Facebook group viewed by The Post revealed the parents growing chagrin as they learned more details about the scene.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It was senior prank day, a parent wrote. The seniors decided to set up a border patrol and made all the students go through it at arrival. I cant imagine how humiliating it felt for the Latino students.

A senior prank at Manhattans elite College School featured a fake border checkpoint and a mariachi band. Luiz C. Ribeiro for New York Post

Another mom, alluding to President Trumps border and immigration policies, added to the thread: If thats a prank, its in serious poor taste at the moment, and needs following up.

Additional shocking details about the stunt were revealed by Gothamist, which first reported on the boys antics  and subsequent outrage from school staff and other students about the alleged anti-immigrant motives.

The pranksters set up a cardboard booth May 1 wreathed in caution tape, from which they asked to see students papers, Gothamist reported.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They also had an inflatable eagle riding a motorcycle in the schools lobby and adorned its entrance with American and Texas flags, according to the report.

The mariachi band played outside while other students waved American flags.

It was really bizarre seeing middle aged Latino men playing music next to white kids draped in the American flag. It looked exploitative, a mom on the Facebook forum wrote.

Leadership at Collegiate School did not return Post requests for comment. Gothamist said the head of the school, Bodie Brizendine, emailed parents and staff that officials regret that this prank took the turn that it did.

Smirking students leaving class Tuesday all denied knowing about the prank to The Post. Luiz C. Ribeiro for New York Post

A teacher outside the school Tuesday confirmed that an embarrassing jest went awry but didnt know specifics.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They brought it up in our meeting but they didnt go into detail, the teacher said. They were just saying how it was unacceptable.

Now, Im even more curious as to what actually occurred.

Scores of smirking students left class Tuesday and denied knowing what happened to The Post.

Collegiate Schools many illustrious alumni include John F. Kennedy Jr., X-Files actor David Duchovny and former New York Times publisher Arthur Ochs Sulzberger Jr.

Its current board of trustees includes NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch.

The centuries-old school last year was embroiled in controversy after its former head, David Lourie, allegedly ripped an antisemitism task force as a joke and a power play by Jewish families to have him ousted.

Lourie resigned, and Brizendine took over.
(NewsNation)  Border Patrol Chief Mike Banks exclusively told NewsNation his agency is ready for a possible onslaught from the cartel despite record-low crossings and decreased fentanyl seizures.

Banks explained to NewsNation that the more the U.S. puts security along the southern border, the more traffic is being pushed to the coast.

Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem has Coast Guard and destroyers monitoring and patrolling those areas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Per U.S. Customs and Border Protection, total fentanyl seizures across March and April totaled 1,371 pounds. During the last fiscal year, 21,900 pounds were seized. It is the first time in nearly 3 years that any month has had less than 1,000 pounds of fentanyl seizures.

5 takeaways from Trumps meeting with Canadas Mark Carney

Due to the United States improved border security, Banks says the cartels are looking to traffic fentanyl and other hard narcotics into other areas more frequently, specifically Canada, Central and South America and Europe.

Instead of being pushed north into the United States, theyre looking for new markets, because were closing the market on the United States, Banks said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Attorney General Pam Bondi announced Tuesday afternoon the largest fentanyl bust in U.S. history, with 11.5 kilos (25.4 pounds) seized, approximately 3 million fentanyl pills.

It was a multiagency operation headed by the DEA, which saw 16 people arrested, including high-ranking Sinaloa cartel member Alberto Salazar Amaya, who was living illegally in Salem, Oregon.

Border Patrol chief supports stronger border measures: Exclusive

The drugs were found in Albuquerque, New Mexico, as well as Phoenix, Arizona, and Utah.

More arrests are coming, I guarantee you that, Bondi said in a media conference Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And these dealers, these sellers, these street-level sellers, better look out, because we will not be negotiating with you. We will bring you to justice, and we will not stop until this poison is off our streets in our country.

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 Boston hotel has suspended one of its security guards after investigating a Saturday incident in which a woman says her gender and use of the womens bathroom were challenged.

The Liberty Hotel, which is located in Bostons West End neighborhood, said in a Tuesday statement that it takes the matter seriously, and that its general manager reached out to the people involved in the incident that day. The hotel has also decided that all staff will undergo a mandatory retraining on inclusive practices and guest interaction protocols, with a particular focus on creating a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQ+ individuals.

In a reaffirmation of our values, the hotel is making a donation to a local LGBTQ+ organization that we have partnered with in the past, on International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia on May 17, the statement reads.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Liberty Hotel later specified that the organization it will be donating to is BAGLY  a Boston-based LGBTQ+ youth advocacy non-profit.

The Liberty Hotel is and always will be an ally of the LGBTQ+ community and a place where everyone is welcome and celebrated. We will continue to educate and train of our team to ensure that everyone feels safe and accepted within our four walls, and guests who do not show tolerance and acceptance towards others will be removed, the statement reads.

What happened

Ansley Baker told WBZ-TV that the incident happened while she and her girlfriend, Liz Victor, were attending a Kentucky Derby party at the hotel Saturday afternoon. The couple said that, while they were in the womens restroom, hotel security began banging on the stalls.

One of the security guards was there telling me to get out of the bathroom, that I was a man in the womens bathroom, Baker told the news station in an interview.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The couple told WBZ-TV that despite Bakers insistence that she is a woman, she was escorted out of the bathroom by security. As she walked out, other women in line for the bathroom made jabs at her, such as Get him out of here! and Hes a creep!, she said.

In the hotel lobby, the male security guard asked for the couples IDs as verification of their sex, they told the news station. Tempers quickly rose, and the couple was ultimately asked to leave the hotel, which they did, Victor said.

Both Baker and Victor told WBZ-TV that they are cis women  meaning that they were both born with female anatomy and identify as women.

A previous statement from Liberty Hotel stated that the incident occurred after several women alerted security of two adults sharing a bathroom stall, the news station reported. The statement also alleged that one of the two women put their hands on a security guard, and that this led to them being kicked out of the hotel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Baker and Victor vehemently denied being in the same stall, WBZ-TV reported.

If thats what he thought the issue was once he opened the stall door, obviously there was only one person in there, so it shouldve been case closed, Victor said.

More Boston stories

Read the original article on MassLive.
Police in Boston have launched an investigation into the death of a 3-year-old child, officials announced Wednesday.

Officers were called to a home at 9 Hannon Street in the citys Mattapan neighborhood for a report of a child in cardiac arrest just before midnight on Tuesday, according to the Boston Police Department.

The child, whose name hasnt been released, was rushed to a local hospital for emergency treatment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a statement, the police department said, Officers responded to the hospital, where they were later advised that the child had been pronounced deceased.

Police noted that an active crime scene remains at the Hannon Street home and that homicide detectives are leading the investigation.

There were no additional details immediately available.

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
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. We are cooperating within the framework of the Non-Aligned Movement. Azerbaijan chaired this organization for four years and left a remarkable legacy. Today, strengthening the Non-Aligned Movement as a more robust institution serves the interests of both countries, said President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev at a joint press conference with General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam To Lam has kicked off, Trend reports.

The head of state added, Today, we also exchanged views on the supremacy of international law, and there is no divergence of opinion in this regard either.

President Ilham Aliyev emphasized that all issues must be resolved within the framework of international law, based on the principles of territorial integrity, sovereignty, and the inviolability of borders of states, and that all disputes must be settled through negotiations and peaceful means.
A 13-year-old boy who was critically injured after hitting a braided cable while riding an electric scooter has died from his injuries.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

On May 2, around 4:30 p.m., police in Everett, Washington, were dispatched to the 8800 block of Fifth Ave West on reports of a crash, our Seattle sister station KIRO-7 reported.

TRENDING STORIES:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The teen was riding his electric scooter southbound on Fifth Ave West and tried to cut through a grassy lot to reach a nearby cul-de-sac, according to police.

As he crossed the lot, he struck a braided metal cable that had been stretched between a fence post and a traffic bollard, KIRO-7 reported.

The teen was seriously injured and taken by medics to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, where he died from his injuries on May 5.

Officials with the City of Everetts Risk Management team were notified, and the cable has since been removed from the lot, KIRO-7 reported.

The investigation is still ongoing, according to police.

[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
By Ricardo Brito

BRASILIA (Reuters) - The Brazilian government rejected a request by the U.S. State Department to designate two major criminal gangs that officials believe to have members in the United States as terrorist organizations, Mario Sarrubo, Brazil's national secretary of public security, told Reuters on Wednesday.

He said the request was made on Tuesday during a meeting between David Gamble, who leads the sanctions strategy for the U.S. State Department, six other officials from President Donald Trump's administration, and eight Brazilian officials in Brasilia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gamble was concerned about the gangs Primeiro Comando da Capital, known as PCC, and Comando Vermelho, known as CV, which control territories in several Brazilian cities.

Trump has been trying to tie his aggressive crackdown on immigration to the presence of members of Latin American criminal gangs in U.S. cities. Earlier this year, the U.S. government designated several drug cartels as terrorist organizations, including Venezuela's Tren de Aragua and El Salvador's MS13.

"We don't have terrorist organizations here, we have criminal organizations that have infiltrated society," Sarrubo, who wasn't in the meeting, said. But Brazilian law, he added, only considers organizations that violently clash with the government for religious or racial reasons to be terrorists.

In recent weeks, the Trump administration has deported hundreds of Latin American immigrants, alleging they were gang members, though it presented little evidence of their criminal ties.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At the meeting in Brasilia, U.S. officials informed their Brazilian counterparts that their request was part of an effort to address immigration and criminal gangs with a transnational presence, saying they were priorities to the Trump administration, one source who was present said.

U.S. officials said a terrorist designation could help the government apply sanctions, raise resources and target criminal supply chains, the same source added.

According to this source, U.S. officials said the Federal Bureau of Investigation had reported the PCC and the Comando Vermelho had cells in 12 U.S. states, mainly Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Florida, Connecticut and Tennessee.

Those reports, the source added, alleged that the gangs trafficked guns and laundered money through Brazilians who traveled to the U.S., adding that 113 people were denied visas to enter the country because of connections to organized crime in 2024 alone.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In March, the U.S. Attorney's Office charged 18 Brazilians with trafficking several types of firearms within the U.S. Some of the illegal activities, the government said, had ties to the PCC, and many of the Brazilians who were charged were in the U.S. illegally.

On Monday, the office of Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, son of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, said he met with Trump Organization officials to deliver a dossier that he said included intelligence information that tied both the PCC and the CV to terrorist acts.

The U.S. embassy in Brasilia did not immediately reply to a request for comment.

(Reporting by Ricardo Brito, writing by Manuela Andreoni; Editing by David Gregorio)
SAO PAULO, Brazil (AP)  With little fanfare and virtually no publicity, lawmakers in the Brazilian state of Rondonia have passed legislation in favor of hundreds of cattle ranchers who had illegally converted swathes of Amazon rainforest into pasture land.

The new legislation, which was passed April 28 and took effect immediately, also grants amnesty to slaughterhouses that purchased cattle illegally raised inside what had been the Jaci-Parana conservation area, which the new law effectively dissolves.

All fines, notices of violation and other administrative penalties tied to the occupation and use of the area are automatically voided and carry no legal or financial consequences, declared the law.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One of the beneficiaries of the amnesty is likely to be JBS SA, the worlds largest meatpacker, which is poised to start selling shares on the New York Stock Exchange in June. According to a 2023 audit by Brazils Federal Prosecution Service, 12% of cattle purchased by JBS in Rondonia came from illegally deforested areas.

In exchange for the amnesty, cattle ranchers must join Rondonia's environmental regularization program, which requires them to halt deforestation and submit a plan to reforest part of the area. The law does not give them the public land, but allows it to be used under concession for 30 years. They will also be allowed to sell cattle, despite a law forbidding commercial cattle in Brazil's protected areas. Around 216,000 head graze on pasture there, according to the state animal division.

The law is an affront. If its not declared unconstitutional, it will pose one of the greatest threats to the protection of all conservation areas facing land invasions, said Wellington Lamburgini, a coordinator with the local chapter of the Pastoral Land Commission, a nonprofit affiliated with the Catholic Church. It sends the message that this crime is tolerated and will eventually be legalized.

State lawmaker Luis do Hospital, who sponsored the bill, Alex Redano, president of the state parliament, and JBS all declined to comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Legal loopholes

The expectation that illegally used land will become sanctioned has been the main driver of deforestation in the Amazon.

Land-grabbers clear land in hopes it will eventually be legalized due to lax land laws or government amnesties. In most cases, the forest is cleared for pasture to show economic activity.

In recent years, Rondonias attorney generals office, state prosecutors office and environmental agency have fined and prosecuted hundreds of cattle ranchers and four slaughterhouses for causing damage inside the Jaci-Parana conservation area, where large-scale cattle raising is forbidden.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fines and pending legal settlements total $280 million  a fraction of the more than $1 billion in damages estimated by Rondonia state. Many of the 778 identified land invaders have never been prosecuted. While several have been convicted, most have escaped punishment due to legal loopholes.

The state prosecutor's office told The Associated Press it is considering appealing the new law.

The attorney general's office declined to comment.

In December 2023, the state's attorney sued JBS and three other slaughterhouses for buying cattle raised in Jaci-Parana. Months later, two of the slaughterhouses  Distriboi and Frigon  were ordered, along with three cattle ranchers, to pay $764,000 for causing environmental damage. Neither company responded to requests for comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Could cause immeasurable harm

JBS is facing three lawsuits pending trial. In one of them, the company argued that it has an environmental monitoring program that has blocked over 20,000 farms in Rondonia alone, according to the companys defense included in the court filings. It also states that the lawsuit is based on purchasing only 73 heads of cattle, representing 0.0006% of the companys purchases in the state.

According to the company, the transaction, which took place 12 years ago, involved fraud from the cattle rancher, as he used geographic coordinates outside the Jaci-Parana reserve to make the sale appear legal. The producer has since been blocked from further sales.

The mere existence of this lawsuit  even if ultimately unsuccessful  could cause immeasurable harm to JBS and, by extension, to Brazils economy, to which the company contributes significantly, accounting for roughly 2.1% of the national GDP," the company said in court filings.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a statement to AP, the meatpacker said that starting Jan. 1, 2026, it will only buy cattle from producers enrolled in its Transparent Livestock Platform, which allows ranchers to register information about their own suppliers, who will also be subject to JBSs socio-environmental compliance criteria.

Last month, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission approved the listing of JBS on the New York Stock Exchange despite strong opposition from environmental groups.

____

The Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.






Bride-to-be Chelsea Kolman is worried she's been scammed after paying $8,000 before a company canceled her wedding venue reservation just three weeks before her big day

"As time got closer we would message her and it would be two or three weeks before she'd respond," Kolman, of Versailles, Kentucky, told NBC-affiliated station WLEX's LEX 18 of attempting to contact the host

Kolman booked The Farm, LLC through the vacation rentals booking platform VRBO, but received her cancellation email from the venue. In a statement to PEOPLE, The Farm, LLC stated that Kolman has received "information on refund or rebooking options"







A bride-to-be had to search for a last-minute wedding venue after reportedly having her booking canceled just a few weeks before her special day.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chelsea Kolman, of Versailles, Ky., is worried that she's been scammed after allegedly paying The Farm, LLC $8,000 outside of VRBO, which was the vacation rentals booking platform she used.

Kolman told local NBC-affiliate station WLEX's LEX 18 that, "As time got closer we would message her and it would be two or three weeks before she'd respond," regarding her attempts to contact the host.

The bride-to-be claimed her booking was canceled by the company on April 17, just 21 days before she was set to tie the knot, the outlet noted.

Getty A stock photo of a bride holding a bouquet of flowers A stock photo of a bride holding a bouquet of flowers

Related: Woman Charged with Scamming 70 Brides by Offering Wedding Dress Dry Cleaning Services, Then Selling Gowns on Social Media

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to a Honeyfund website created ahead of Kolman's wedding to her fiance Eric, the couple said they had to change the venue "due to unforeseen circumstances." The wedding date is listed as Saturday, May 10.

Kolman was reportedly told by the host to contact VRBO for a refund, per LEX 18. She said she'd received an email saying their reservation had been canceled by the booking platform, but claimed the message actually came from The Farm, LLC.

When she reached out to VRBO, Kolman  who said she'd seen a mix of reviews after doing a bit of research into the host  was told the booking still existed, the outlet reported.

"It really is like a Russian roulette sort of thing," Kolman said of seeing both positive and negative reviews, per LEX 18. "It's just enough to make you believe it's not too good to be true, it's a real thing."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I'm kind of encouraging people to beware, and you shouldn't have a thought in your head like this could be a scam, but now I'm telling people you gotta look out because it happens," she added to the outlet.

Related: Bride Unable to Get $10,000 Deposit Back After Her Wedding Vendor Was Allegedly Put in Medically Induced Coma

Per the Better Business Bureau website, The Farm, LLC has a rating of "F," due to alleged failure to respond to multiple complaints filed against the business and two complaints that were allegedly not resolved.

The site pointed out that in January 2024, the company "filed for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the federal Bankruptcy Act."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"This permits the business to continue to operate with court supervision while developing a plan of reorganization," the site reported.

The Farm, LLC's website states it is currently being improved, and the company encourages anyone interested in their venues to visit their "VRBO listings" in the meantime. The business still appears to have multiple venues in Kentucky and one in Tennessee, per the site.

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.

WTVD previously confirmed The Farm, LLC had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, reporting in May 2024 that multiple couples had been affected after planning their wedding at The Champion Estate at the Triangle in Durham County, North Carolina. It appears that the property is no longer managed by The Farm, LLC, per the listings on the business' website.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

PEOPLE reached out to The Farm, LLC for comment on the situation, to which the team stated: "The Farm LLC is a hospitality company committed to ensuring our guests have an extraordinary experience. Whether its a family reunion, a wedding, or a simple staycation we want every guest to feel taken care of, but when they arent  were here to make it right. A recent convergence of events involving company restructuring, booking vendors, and market dynamics led to some guest cancellations."

"Guests affected to date have been notified of any changes in itinerary and they have received information on refund or rebooking options," the venue continued. "Guests who have not yet executed on those options, including the guest highlighted in your story, are still welcome to do so at their earliest convenience. We encourage any guest with questions about any future booking to contact us using the methods provided in the notification to them or by emailing reservations@thefarmllc.com."

VRBO and Kolman did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment.



Read the original article on People
LONDON (Reuters) -The growth of AI will increase the number and sophistication of cyberattacks on Britain, senior minister Pat McFadden said on Wednesday.

British companies, public bodies and institutions have been hit by a wave of cyberattacks in the past few years, costing them tens of millions of pounds and often months of disruption.

Over the last three weeks British retailers Marks & Spencer, the Co-op Group and Harrods have all been hit by attacks, with M&S still unable to take online clothing orders.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The companies have not given any details on the nature of the attacks.

"Today we are declassifying an intelligence assessment that shows AI is going to increase not only the frequency but the intensity of cyberattacks in the coming years," said McFadden, who as cabinet office minister is responsible for UK cyber security.

"Our security systems will only remain secure if they keep pace with what our adversaries are doing," he said.

Speaking at the National Cyber Security Centre's CyberUK 2025 conference, he said that last year the NCSC received almost 2,000 reports of cyberattacks, with almost 90 deemed "significant" and 12 at "the very top end of severity". This was three times the number of severe attacks compared to the year before.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

McFadden said the recent cyberattacks on British retailers should serve as a wake-up call for everyone, including government and the public sector, businesses and organisations.

"Cyber security isn't a luxury, it's an absolute necessity."

He said the government will later this year publish a new cyber security strategy, while new legislation, the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, will grant government new powers to direct regulated organisations to reinforce their cyber defences.

M&S and the Co-op are widely reported to have been the victims of ransomware attacks where criminals infiltrate companies' computer systems, encrypt them and demand payment before allowing them to resume control.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

NCSC CEO Richard Horne told the conference he wanted to see a future where paying ransoms is no longer considered an option, where the business model for the attackers no longer works.

(Reporting by James Davey. Editing by Jane Merriman)
Alexandra Saper, an American influencer, claimed Rob Keating followed her to Bali, a court heard

A British stalker followed an American travel influencer to Bali with a rope in his suitcase, a court has heard.

Rob Keating is alleged to have booked a one-way ticket to the Indonesian island after almost a year of harassing Alexandra Saper, an Instagram blogger, with emails and video messages.

Youre never getting rid of me, he messaged Ms Saper on arrival before visiting bars and cafes near her island home, Portsmouth Crown Court was told.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ms Saper, 33, a former lawyer who now earns a living from her Instagram page, The Wayfaress, which has more than 100,000 followers, told the jury that she was forced to flee the country in fear.

Mr Keating, who was living in his sisters garage in Havant, Hants, at the time, was arrested when he returned to the UK with black rope in his suitcase, the court heard.

He has pleaded not guilty to two counts of stalking involving serious alarm or distress.

Alexandra Saper loves to travel across the world

She shares her adventures on Instagram

Opening the case, Alexandra Bull, prosecuting, told the court: Mr Keating is now 39 years old, between 2022 and 2023 he was living in his sisters garage... and working in a traffic job and he, too, frequently posted on social media and YouTube.



He started following Ms Saper on Instagram in 2022 and sent her a weird and creepy message, to which she replied Dude, why are you following me if you dont like my content, the court heard.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ms Saper blocked Mr Keating, but he then found her business email connected to her website, the prosecutor said.

The contact is said to have become incessant and constant and grew more intense and sexual in nature later into 2022.

In September, Mr Keating described having sex with her to some length in a video of himself talking to the camera, the court heard.

He was speaking to her as though they were in a relationship, like he was in love with her and she with him, Ms Bull said. One email included a threat to abduct her, she added.

The Instagram travel influencer has more than 100,000 followers

Ms Saper post scenes of her visits on her Instagram page, The Wayfaress

Ms Saper said in a video interview played to the court: He sent me a photo of a body in a suitcase and said he was going to kidnap me.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She added that he said he knew she was 5ft 2in, which meant she would fit inside the suitcase.

Ms Bull told the court Mr Keating also sent Ms Saper a picture of a one-way ticket to Bali and said flights booked baby girl along with around 30 videos of himself talking to the camera.

Ms Saper saw from posts on his Instagram page that he visited a bar she regularly went to with her friends, and went to cafes just 50 metres from her house, the court heard.

In her video evidence, she said he thought she was sending him secret messages through her Instagram posts.

She said: His interpretation of these posts was that they were secret coded messages about my love for him, or me asking him to come to Bali because I wanted to see him.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He was convinced that I had asked him to come to Bali.

She said she was forced to travel to Laos, south-east Asia, so that they were no longer in the same country.

She also stopped posting on Instagram, had to cancel work projects, stopped leaving the house, and became depressed because of Mr Keatings alleged actions, the court heard.



The influencer reported him to the police in Bali, and spoke to the US and the UK embassies in the country.



Following his arrest in March 2023, Mr Keating told police in an interview that he was not sexually attracted to Ms Saper but said that she had shown an interest in him and there could be something there.



He continued to stalk Ms Saper between September and November 2024, at which point he lived in Horsham in West Sussex, the court was told.



Mr Keating posted a picture of a plane ticket from London to Bali with the caption round 2 on his Instagram in November, it was heard. He was subsequently arrested again.



The trial continues.

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.
The Florida Legislatures apparent commitment to statewide tax relief is going to leave local government scrambling to come up with cash to cover emergency, parks and health services for years to come  and its not too soon to start bracing for that potential impact, officials said this week.

Broward County Administrator Monica Cepero said during Tuesdays commission meeting that Tallahassees priorities will leave county government and most cities looking for ways to make up for lost revenue.

The unofficial estimate, she said, is a statewide loss of $2.8 billion in tax cuts, with at least $1.6 billion recurring. In terms of population, Broward is the second-largest county in the state, and Palm Beach County is third.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Proposed reductions in sales and property taxes would have a profound effect on the ability of local governments to deliver services.

So there are some pretty concerning things that were following, Cepero said.

As an example, Cepero cited a plan to reduce the state sales tax from 6% to 5.25%. That would, of course, get trickled out to every county, she said. The annual recurring impact to Broward would be an estimated $30 million: half to cities and the other half to the county, she said.

A second proposal, according to County Commissioner Nan Rich, would have local governments forced to have a referendum on eliminating property taxes on homesteaded properties, a proposal that could prove challenging for voters to resist but would cost the county a thus-far uncalculated amount of annual revenue.

Related Articles

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Commissioner Steven Geller said the proposed tax cuts and projected income reductions reflect a lack of understanding on the part of a state Legislature, of which he was once a member.

The question is not how much theyre going to do for us, but how badly theyre going to hurt us, Geller said. The governor seems to think we spend it all our funding one giant program called DEI.

DEI stands for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, a shorthand term for hiring policies that purportedly seek to correct for historical inequities surrounding race, ethnicity and gender. Conservative political figures have criticized DEI as an unacceptable alternative to hiring the most qualified person for a job regardless of race or gender.

Most local governments spend more than half their funding on first responders, Geller said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Broward County Commission is scheduled to meet on Tuesday for a budget workshop, Cepero said.

As of now, the potential budget shortfalls remain hypothetical. The Florida Legislature failed to pass a budget last week when its session was supposed to end, and it extended its deadline.

The county has been keeping close watch. Obviously, these conversations are happening many times a day with all the stakeholders and our lobbyists, Cepero told commissioners.

Rafael Olmeda can be reached at rolmeda@sunsentinel.com or 954-356-4457. Follow him on Threads.net/@rafael.olmeda.
Multiple Broward County men were arrested during a national operation to crack down on child sex predators led by the U.S. Department of Justice, the department announced Wednesday.

Within five days and involving all 55 FBI offices, authorities arrested 205 people accused of child sexual abuse offenses and rescued 115 children, the DOJ said. The Southern District of Florida is prosecuting six cases, including men from Broward and Miami-Dade County.

The men from Broward County facing charges are: Benjamin Tokoma Sanders, 23, of Oakland Park; Katriel Victor Marmol, 57, of Davie; and Dariel Manresa, 34, of Pembroke Pines, the DOJ said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Marmol is accused of enticement of a minor to engage in illicit sexual behavior, federal court records show. Davie Police began an investigation in October after receiving a tip about an adult man, later identified as Marmol, who had an inappropriate relationship with a 14-year-old girl who lived across the street from the church where he worked and that she regularly attended, according to a criminal complaint.

Other students at the girls middle school told detectives during their investigation that Marmol was a friend of the girls family and that they had a romantic relationship, the complaint said. They examined the girls phone and found hundreds of screenshots of her conversations with Marmol that were sexual in nature, and he sent multiple sexual videos that were found in a hidden folder on the girls phone.

Marmol in one message allegedly wrote, according to the complaint: Delete all calls  Delete my number The police called a girl who is a friend of yours and the parents  dont say  anything. We have to get away  there cant be anything  Im very worried.

Marmol had his initial appearance in court on Friday, and his arraignment is scheduled for May 16. A detention hearing will be held Thursday, court records show.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Further details about the investigations pertaining to Manresa and Sanders and the allegations against them were not available in court records Wednesday. Both were charged by indictment.

Sanders is accused of possession and production of child sexual abuse material, which carry maximum penalties of up to 20 and 30 years in prison respectively, the indictment said. His arraignment was held on Monday.

Manresa is accused of distribution and possession of child pornography, according to the indictment, which carry maximum penalties of up to 20 years in prison. He has been released from custody after posting bail on a $200,000 bond, court records show. His arraignment is scheduled for May 12.

Other notable arrests include a state trooper and Army Reservist in Minneapolis, Minnesota, who was accused of producing child sex abuse material while wearing his uniforms, according to the DOJ. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims. A person living in the country illegally in Norfolk, Virginia, was accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In one case, a young victim disclosed the abuse he or she was facing to FBI agents after seeing an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, New York. A California man was arrested eight hours later, the DOJ said.

In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice, the DOJ said.
Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. As part of his official visit to the Republic of Iraq, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov, met today with the Speaker of the Council of Representatives of Iraq, Mahmoud al-Mashhadani, the Azerbaijani ministry told Trend.

The two officials discussed bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Iraq, inter-parliamentary cooperation, and a range of regional issues of mutual interest.

Minister Bayramov emphasized that the historically friendly and respectful relations between Azerbaijan and Iraq have developed across various spheres, including politics, economy, and humanitarian cooperation. He highlighted that inter-parliamentary relations are an important component of these ties.

He further noted the significance of enhancing cooperation and reciprocal visits between legislative bodies as a way to promote mutual understanding, adding that there is a favorable basis for expanding this partnership.

The meeting also included detailed discussions on regional and international security issues, the current situation in the Middle East, and the realities in the South Caucasus during the post-conflict period. Minister Bayramov spoke in detail about Azerbaijans efforts in reconstruction, mine clearance, and the peace process.

Other matters of mutual interest were also addressed during the meeting.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
A man who worked as a tax preparer in Broward County has been ordered to close his business and is permanently barred from preparing or filing any federal tax returns as part of a civil lawsuit filed by the U.S. Department of Justice.

Sunil Ramchandani, of Cooper City, through his business AHS Income Tax Services allegedly fabricated or had errors in the majority of the thousands of returns he filed in 2022 and 2023, totaling a tax loss of more than $10 million from returns he prepared in those years alone, according to the Department of Justice and the civil complaint.

The civil complaint, filed in January, alleged that Ramchandanis company often did not tell customers their fees and would often give them a copy of their tax return that was different from the return that was filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Money from additional refunds was diverted into bank accounts Ramchandani controlled, rather than customers without them knowing, the complaint said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Federal lawsuit alleges Broward tax preparer filed bogus returns

The IRS sent multiple warning letters to the company in 2011 and 2012 that its conduct was illegal, according to the complaint, but had gone unheeded and have not deterred the company. AHS Income Tax Services was assessed civil penalties totaling more than $120,000 in 2017 and 2019 for violations.

Ramchandani also allegedly prepared returns that claimed false or inflated residential energy credits, fuel tax credits, fabricated business loses and other deductions and credits, the DOJ said.

A U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida judge signed the permanent injunction against Ramchandani on Tuesday. It prohibits him and his business from preparing or helping to prepare federal tax returns, filing or helping to file federal tax returns, owning, operating or working for a tax return preparation business and from transferring or selling his customer lists, among other stipulations.

The DOJ said Ramchandani agreed to the injunction. If violated, he and the company may be subject to civil and criminal sanctions for contempt of court, according to the order.
CHEEKTOWAGA, N.Y. (WIVB)  Starting Wednesday, travelers flying out of the Buffalo Niagara International Airport will need to be Real ID-compliant. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officials said travelers could run into delays and possibly miss flights without a Real ID.

TSA officials said having a Real ID has been long overdue and that everyone will need to follow the new requirement. Posters around the airport will be up to remind travelers.

Bart Johnson, the federal security director for the TSA in upstate New York, said only 40 percent of New Yorkers already have a Real ID.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If travelers show up to the airport and do not have a Real ID or passport, TSA will give them an orange slip and they will be be subject to additional screening. Its unclear what that additional screening will be and how long it could take. Johnson said for security reasons, they wont release that information.

Were going to be very much involved, were going to be very careful, very secure and individuals may be selected for additional screening, Johnson said. Im not going to share what that general screening is because I dont want to make ourselves vulnerable and tip off anyone that may try to take advantage of the situation.

Johnson is asking travelers to be patient on Wednesday while TSA officers do their jobs. Travelers who have a Real ID or passport should have no issues making their flights, he said.

A Real ID-compliant license will have either a star or flag on the top right corner of the card. It is still possible to acquire one after May 7.

Latest Local News

Sarah Minkewicz is an Emmy-nominated reporter and Buffalo native who has been a part of the News 4 team since 2019. Follow Sarah on Twitter @SarahMinkewicz and click here to see more of her work.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
JAMAICA, Vt. (ABC22/FOX44)  A Burlington man was taken into custody after allegedly leaving the scene of an accident, possibly under the influence Saturday.

State police received a report about this incident at about 4:36 p.m. Investigators say that Matthew Rudavsky, age 43, crashed his vehicle and left the scene without alerting officers.

Rudavskys vehicle reportedly caused property damage, and authorities believe Rudavsky was under the influence while driving.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He was later found and arrested. Officers issued a criminal citation to Rudavsky, who is set to appear in court May 20.

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 ABC22 & FOX44.
BURLINGTON (KSNT)  Coffey County residents vote no to the special bond vote focusing on USD 244.

According to the Coffey County election website, the unofficial results are in: residents do not want special bonds to go towards a new Burlington Elementary School. Below are the unofficial results:

Yes: 305

No: 793

Coffey County canvassers will determine the official result on Monday, May 12.

2 Northeast Kansas hospitals earn high marks for safety

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to USD 244, funding from the $45 million bond proposal would have allowed the elementary school to be built closer to the communitys middle and high schools, add early learning classrooms and provide classrooms with updated technology and resources.

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.

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.
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  A Northmont High School bus driver was arrested Monday for allegedly engaging in inappropriate and unlawful relationships with students.

Montgomery County Sheriffs Office said it received reports alleging Matthew Hunt, 49, was having inappropriate and unlawful relationships with both current and former students.

MCSO said that after a detailed investigation, Hunt was arrested in Clayton, Ohio, on Monday, May 5.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Officials said Hunt is being held at the Montgomery County Jail on a charge of Sexual Battery.

No formal charges have been approved by the Montgomery County Prosecutors Office, but it is continuing to review the case as it is investigated.

Due to the nature of these alleged crimes, investigators are concerned that there might be additional people affected who havent come forward. Anyone with information is urged to contact Montgomery County Sheriffs Office Sgt. Josh Walters at WaltersJ@mcohiosheriff.org

Northmont City School supplied the following statement to 2 NEWS regarding the allegations:

Northmont City Schools works with law enforcement to swiftly address reported instances. We are working with law enforcement as they investigate the matter. The district has placed Mr. Hunt on administrative leave during the investigation. The District will have no further comment on this matter. Superintendent Tony Thomas

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.
Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in an interview Tuesday that a call from Democrats to return to a past status quo would be substantively wrong and fail politically.

The truth is, protoauthoritarian governments do not just come out of nowhere. We would not be here in this situation if the government, the economy, and the politics of our country were healthy. Theyve been unhealthy for a long time, Buttigieg told MSNBCs Jen Psaki.

If my party seems like its calling for a return to a status quo from before, that would be both substantively wrong, and politically it would fail, he continued.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Buttigieg acknowledged in his interview with Psaki that the party needs to make a clearer case to voters about how it would be different from Trump and his Republican allies, citing issues such as taxes, wages, and health care.

This is not a question of accommodating things that we dont agree with or watering down or changing our values. It is a question that we have to make very clear to everybody: how your everyday life is different if were in charge compared to if theyre in charge, Buttigieg said.

The interview marks one of Buttigiegs first forays back into the spotlight since leaving office in January. Buttigieg is seen as one of the leading potential 2028 presidential contenders and a rising star within the Democratic Party.

This month, Buttigieg will travel to the early presidential contest state of Iowa to participate in a town hall with the liberal veterans group VoteVets. Buttigieg, a Navy veteran, is expected to discuss the impact President Trumps first 100 days in office have had on veterans.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
C-SPAN has asked the Supreme Court to let its cameras film oral arguments in the birthright citizenship case brought by President Donald Trump.

In a letter to Chief Justice John Roberts dated April 23, the network argues that allowing proceedings to be televised would give Americans a better understanding of a case of profound national significance.

Television and still cameras have never been allowed in the courtroom for arguments, but a live audio stream began during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and continued when in-person proceedings returned.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Under Trumps executive order, birthright citizenship would end for the children of people who are in the U.S. illegally. But the crackdown, part of wider attempts to curb immigration, has been thwarted by three district courts around the country.

The Justice Department has asked the Supreme Court to take up the case. Oral arguments on the issue are set to be heard by justices next week.

Birthright citizenship, the guarantee of citizenship to almost everyone born in the U.S., dates back to the post-Civil War era, and is enshrined in the Constitutions 14th Amendment.

C-SPAN Request to Chief Justice Roberts to Televise Birthright Citizenship U.S. Supreme Court Oral Argument https://t.co/yd8PMURXkF#SCOTUSpic.twitter.com/XoWqODHDpp  CSPAN (@cspan) May 7, 2025

In the letter, C-SPAN CEO Sam Feist argues: This case holds profound national significance. Its implications  legal, political, and personal  will affect millions of Americans. In light of this, we believe the public interest is best served through live television coverage of the proceedings.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Feist goes on to say that televising the arguments would strengthen our democracy and help allow Americans to see, and not only hear, about issues at the forefront of their government.

We stand ready to work with the court to ensure that this broadcast is conducted with the dignity and respect befitting the occasion, the CEO concludes.

Related...
CADDO PARISH, La. (KTAL/KMSS)  Four victims of a suspected murder-suicide in Keithville on Monday were identified by the Caddo Parish Coroner.

The tragedy happened in the 10000 block of Mustang Circle early on May 5, 2025. The coroner identified Leroy Sadler, 60, and Judy Sadler, 64, both residents of the home on Mustang Circle. James L. Sadler, 29, and Adalynn Mae Sadler, 2, of Logansport were also positively identified. All four victims were found suffering from gunshot wounds and were discovered by Caddo Parish Sheriffs Deputies after they received a call for a welfare concern.

More Local News

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The deaths of Judy, James, and Adalynn Mae Sadler are the 13th, 14th, and 15th homicides in Caddo Parish in 2025.

Autopsies were ordered for all deceased, and the incident is still under investigation by the Caddo Parish Sheriffs Office.

A family member has created a GoFundMe to assist the family of Adalynn Mae Sadler in easing the familys financial burden.

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.
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  The Cafaro Foundation has jumped to the top of a growing donor list Thursday with a $3 million donation to the Kilcawley Centered on the Future campaign.

Read next: Election results

Kilcawley Center closed Monday, just after graduation weekend, for the start of renovations, which are expected to take more than two years to complete. Some updates include a new black-box theater, a revamped Chestnut Room for large gatherings, flexible meeting rooms, a new dining area, and indoor and outdoor areas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The project is anticipated to come with a $50 million price tag, covered by loans and aided by donations that keep coming.

This donation puts the Cafaro family into YSUs highest notable giving society, the Penguin Pinnacle, which accounts for contributions to the university from donors of $5 million or greater.

We are thankful and deeply grateful for the Cafaro familys continued support of our university, said YSU President Bill Johnson. This gift reflects their dedication to YSUs student community and further acknowledges their belief in the critical role YSU plays in the social, cultural, and economic vitality of our region.

The Cafaros support for YSU dates to the 1960s. William M. Cafaro was a key advocate for Youngstown University becoming a state public university in 1968. He also was one of the founders and one of the first board members of the YSU Foundation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Other significant contributors include former university president Jim Tressel and his wife Ellen, alumnus Dr. George Young, The Hynes Finnegan Foundations, Board of Trustees member Joe Kerola and his wife Pam, The John S. and Doris M. Andrews Memorial Fund, and more.

YSUs website includes a breakdown of the project, a timeline of what will be closed when and where offices have been relocated.

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.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov, met with Prime Minister of the Republic of Iraq, Muhammad Shia' al-Sudani, as part of his official visit to the country on May 7, 2025, the ministerial press service told Trend.

The two sides discussed various dimensions of Azerbaijan-Iraq cooperation, the current situation in the Middle East, as well as other regional and international security issues of mutual interest.

The ministry noted with satisfaction that although diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and Iraq were established following Azerbaijans restoration of independence, ties between the two peoples date back much further. The importance of increasing reciprocal visits and engagements across all levels  including government, parliament, and foreign ministries  was emphasized as key to maintaining the positive momentum.

During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on political, economic, trade, energy, and humanitarian cooperation, highlighting mutual interest and the availability of strong opportunities for expanding bilateral relations.

Bayramov and al-Sudani also discussed the situation in the Middle East, particularly in the Gaza region, and expressed hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Azerbaijans support for resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict in accordance with international law and United Nations (UN) Security Council resolutions, based on the two-state solution, was reiterated.

The meeting also touched upon Azerbaijans presidency of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, underlining the significance of the outcomes achieved during the session hosted in Azerbaijan.

Minister Bayramov further briefed his counterpart on the current post-conflict realities in the region, Azerbaijans large-scale reconstruction and mine clearance efforts in the liberated territories, and the normalization process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. He stated that the draft peace agreement initiated by Azerbaijan has been finalized, but for sustainable peace, Armenia needs to renounce territorial claims against Azerbaijan in its constitution and legislation.

Additional topics of mutual interest were also discussed during the meeting.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A woman called her pastor before turning herself in to police for a deadly hit-and-run crash, police said in documents 8 News Now obtained Wednesday.

Roxxanne Barela, 19, of Hemet, California, faces a charge of duty to stop at the scene of an accident involving death, records said.

The fatal hit-and-run crash on Flamingo Road near Palos Verdes Street happened Monday, May 5, around 3:20 a.m., police said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Video from a passing Tesla, which recorded the incident, showed a pedestrian entering into the path of another car, which then struck her, documents said. Investigators also found the front of the cars license plate at the collision scene, they said.

Through license-plate-reading technology, officers located the car at a nearby apartment complex.

Around 1 p.m., nearly eight hours after the crash, Barela turned herself in at a Metro police substation, officers said.

Speaking about the victim, Barela told police all she could see was her face and black clothing before striking her, documents said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She left the collision scene because she was scared and drove to her friends apartment, police said. She did not tell anyone what happened until later in the day when she called her pastor to ask her for a ride to the police station to turn herself in.

It was not clear from court documents if Barela told her pastor the circumstances about why she needed to go to police.

Barela was due to appear in court on Thursday. A judge previously set bail at $150,000. Barela remained in custody on Wednesday.

The victims identity was not available on Wednesday.

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.
SACRAMENTO, California  The majority of California voters think Gov. Gavin Newsom is devoting more of his attention to matters that could help him win the presidency than to governing the state, according to a new UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies poll.

Fifty-four percent of registered voters surveyed during the last week of April held that belief, compared to just 26 percent who did not see Newsom as more focused on the White House. The Democratic governor's approval rating, however, held steady at 46 percent  around the same level as other Berkeley IGS polls from the last two years.

Newsom has gone to great lengths to raise his national profile, running ads in red states, debating Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Fox News and announcing a long-shot bid to inscribe gun restrictions in the U.S. Constitution. He has in recent months begun hosting a new podcast interviewing well-known national political figures.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Asked about the results, his spokesperson Izzy Gardon said Newsom's top priority was leading the state.

"The Governor is focused on one thing: his job  driving LAs recovery, confronting the housing crisis, and taking Donald Trump to court over his disastrous tariffs that are raising costs for families and blowing a hole in Californias budget," Gardon said in a statement Wednesday.

After pledging cooperation with President Donald Trump following the Los Angeles-area wildfires, Newsom has returned to a more confrontational posture. In recent weeks he has zeroed in on tariffs as a winning  and as it turns out, poll-tested  issue against an opponent who remains unpopular in California.

Majorities of California voters fear negative impacts from Trumps reshaping of Washington, including 64 percent who believe tariffs will harm the states business and farming, according to the survey.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The results suggest that a majority of Californias voters fear that the state will bear the financial and social brunt of Trumps policy decisions, IGS Co-Director G. Cristina Mora said. They fear the effects on everything from the states regional economies to its K-12 schooling. Yet, still, poll results also suggest that strong majorities of voters also want the state to continue to support some of its most vulnerable communities, especially undocumented children, as they make policy decisions in this new era.

A White House spokesperson responded to the poll with a statement touting Trump's response to the Los Angeles fires, his administration's deportation of "migrant criminals" and his work "to revitalize Hollywood and revive Americas film industry"  a nod to the president's stated but unspecific plan to impose tariffs on movies made outside the U.S.

This President is Making California Great Again, and Californians are well-served by his strong leadership in the White House, spokesperson Anna Kelly said in the statement.

A plurality of voters, 48 percent, were confident in Newsoms ability to look out for Californias interests against Trump, compared to 45 percent who were not.

Views about the governor were, predictably, heavily partisan. Seventy percent of Democrats approved of his job performance, compared to just 11 percent of Republicans.
(Getty Images)

The Catholic Diocese of Camden has abandoned its attempt to prevent state prosecutors from convening a grand jury to investigate clergy abuse, an unexpected move that comes just a week after the New Jersey Supreme Court heard heated arguments on the matter.

Bishop Joseph A. Williams, in a Tuesday letter to parishioners, said he met last Thursday with the dioceses trustees and other leaders, and they unanimously agreed to end their seven-year battle to prevent the state Office of the Attorney General from presenting the findings of its clergy abuse task force to a grand jury. State attorneys had hoped grand jurors would issue a presentment, in which theyd publicly condemn abusive priests and church leaders who covered up abuse and recommend reforms to prevent such harms from happening again.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The battle had been waged in secret, since diocesan lawyers years ago successfully persuaded judges to seal all case records. But the fight came to light earlier this year, when the states top court agreed to hear the case and ordered some records unsealed.

Williams, who became bishop of Camden in March, said dropping the dioceses legal fight should signal to abuse victims that the church wants to win their trust, restore their faith, and, God willing, someday find them back in the communion of friendship and worship within the Church.

The survivors are Church, Williams wrote. There is no us and them in this difficult reckoning of our recent history. Survivors are baptized  and hurting  members of Christs body who need a Good Samaritan Church at their side.

A spokesman for the attorney generals office said they welcome the introspection that produced the dioceses shift in position.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For now, however, the State remains subject to a trial court ruling, entered at the Diocese of Camdens urging, blocking this presentment process from going forward, spokesman Michael Symons said. After years of litigation, kept hidden from public view until the Supreme Court granted our unsealing motion this past March, we look forward to an opinion addressing these important questions.

Such questions include whether the state can seek a presentment against a private entity and whether courts can block a presentment that hasnt been returned.

The diocese had argued that presentments are intended to address ongoing public harms by public entities and officials, and clergy abuse is a past eradicated harm involving a private entity that impacted only a fragment of the population. Trial and appellate judges had sided with the diocese, and the state appealed to the Supreme Court.

State attorneys hope Supreme Court justices will agree with their arguments, supported by victims, that clergy abuse was a public harm with ongoing impacts that could warrant grand jury scrutiny and that judges cant squash theoretical presentments that dont yet exist.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mark Crawford, the New Jersey state director of the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, said he was cautiously optimistic about what the dioceses legal surrender means for the churchs ongoing reckoning with its sordid history of abuse.

Hardball legal tactics only silence victims and create more mistrust, more pain, more cynicism. Our church officials moral authority continues to be eroded by their own actions. So this is a refreshing change, Crawford said. I had hoped that one day somebody would come along whos willing to buck the trend, stand up, fight the system and say, No, we must take the path less chosen. It sounds like that might be Bishop Williams. I hope thats true, but only time will tell.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
Canada has initiated court proceedings to seize a Russian Antonov An-124 "Ruslan" transport aircraft, Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna said on May 6.

The aircraft, owned by Russian Volga-Dnepr cargo airlines, has remained grounded at Toronto Pearson International Airport since the start of the full-scale invasion in February 2022, amid a travel ban on Russian aircraft in Canadian airspace.

A spokesperson for Global Affairs Canada confirmed to Canadian publication InSauga that the Canadian government had initiated proceedings in the Ontario Superior Court.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The Attorney General of Canada commenced forfeiture proceedings by seeking the issuance of a Notice of Application by the Superior Court of Ontario on March 18, 2025," the spokesperson said.

The aircraft, which is approximately 69 metres long and 21 meters tall and originally produced in Ukraine, is the worlds largest mass-produced cargo plane.

The similar Ukrainian-owned and produced Antonov An-225 Mriya aircraft served as a one-off flagship of the Antonov An-124, until it was destroyed by Russian forces at Hostomel airport in February 2022.

"I am convinced that all these actions are leading to one outcome: the 'Ruslan' will soon have a new home  in Ukraine, where it will serve our countrys needs," Stefanishyna said in a statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Im grateful to Canada for its unwavering support and decisive actions. Justice is not just a word  it's the concrete steps we are witnessing today. And this is just the beginning."

Read also: European Commission prepares 17th sanctions package against Russia, Reuters reports

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney warned President Donald Trump on Tuesday that Canada is not for sale in a cordial but tense White House meeting over the trade war and Trumps push to annex the northern neighbor as a 51st state.

Carney, who won election last week on a platform of confronting Trumps threats, sought to strike a cordial tone, and the two leaders showered praise on one another in the Oval Office before a closed-door meeting that stretched for 90 minutes.

But Carney squirmed a bit as Trump riffed on his contentious plan for the U.S. to gobble up Canada.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There are some places that are never for sale. Having met with the owners of Canada ... its not for sale and it will never be for sale, Carney said.

Never say never, Trump retorted with a smile. Time will tell.

Sitting next to Trump, Carney silently mouthed the word never over and over again as Trump spoke.

There was no immediate word of any progress on negotiations to ease the tit-for-tat trade war that began when Trump imposed broad import taxes on Canadian products.

In fact, Trump repeated his claim that the U.S. is subsidizing Canada because it runs a trade deficit with the northern neighbor and the U.S. doesnt need or want Canadian steel, aluminum, timber and other products.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We dont do much business with Canada, Trump remarked flippantly.

Trump regularly falsely claims Canada runs a huge annual trade surplus of $200 billion with the U.S.

In fact, the U.S. had a trade deficit with Canada in physical goods of about $63 billion last year. But that was offset by a surplus in American services to Canada of about $33 billion.

Carney has stressed that he was elected to stand up to the mercurial U.S. president and that Canada is in a once-in-a-lifetime crisis. The former central banker said he expected difficult but constructive conversations.

Minutes before Carneys arrival, Trump set a contentious tone by accusing Canada of freeloading on trade and the nations geopolitical alliance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We dont need anything they have, other than their friendship, which hopefully we will always maintain. They, on the other hand, need everything from us, Trump wrote on his social media site.

Trump has frayed a decades-old alliance by saying he wants to make Canada the 51st U.S. state and levying steep tariffs against an essential partner in the manufacturing of autos and the supply of oil, electricity and other goods.

The widespread north-of-the-border outrage provoked by Trumps bellicose rhetoric powered Carneys Liberal Party to a stunning comeback victory over the right-wing opposition party.

Trump has repeatedly threatened that he intends to make Canada the 51st state and says he is deadly serious. Just Sunday, Trump called the border an artificial line that prevents the two nations from forming a beautiful country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trumps openly adversarial approach with allies and rivals alike has raised big questions for Carney and other world leaders on how to manage relations with Trump.

Some world leaders, such as the United Kingdoms prime minister, Keir Starmer, engaged in a charm offensive. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, on the other hand, wound up getting into a shouting match with Trump after challenging his stance on the Russian invasion.

Trump says the U.S. doesnt need anything from Canada even though corporations have worked for decades to integrate supply chains between the two nations.

Nearly 25% of the oil the U.S. consumes comes from the province of Alberta. Almost every state along the northern border, including upstate New York, relies heavily on trade with Canada.

Trump has also disparaged Canadas military commitments despite a hand-in-glove partnership that stretched from from the beaches of Normandy in World War II to the fight against al-Qaida in Afghanistan following the Sept. 11 terror attacks.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney seemed to admit that he was seething in the Oval Office Tuesday as President Donald Trump taunted him to his face about annexing his country.

When a reporter asked after the sit-down what was going through his head while he listened to Trump, Carney had an acerbic answer.

Well, thank youI guessfor your question, Carney began. I am glad you could not tell what was going through my mind.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Earlier on Tuesday, Trump had wasted little time in confronting Carney about his long-standing aspiration to take over Canada.

Carney opened up to reporters about what he was thinking as he faced down the American president. / MANDEL NGAN / AFP via Getty Images

Calling himself a real estate developer at heart, the American said that adding Canada to the United States would make for a wonderful marriage.

Carney, who had been shifting in his seat with pursed lips while Trump spoke, immediately shut the presidents musing down.

Well, if I may, as you know, from real estate, there are some places that are never for sale, he said.

Despite the tension, the meeting remained cordial to its end, and Carney kept whatever emotions were boiling under control.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Speaking to reporters later on Tuesday, the Canadian PM reiterated his firm response to Trumps prodding.

The president has made known his wish about that issue for some time, he said. I have been careful always to distinguish between wish and reality, and I was clear there in the Oval Officeas I have been clear throughout on behalf of Canadiansthat this is never going to happen. Canada is not for sale and never will be for sale.

That said, Carney affirmed his commitment to working with the U.S. to rebuild an economic and security partnership between the two powers.

Trump has made it clear that hes not joking about seizing control of Canada. / Alex Wong/Getty Images

Trump, who has made it clear that he is not joking about his long-running aspiration to take over Canada, has slapped the northern ally with steep tariffs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Carney staged a come from behind election victory after Justin Trudeau stepped down as PM. While the Liberal Party had trailed its Conservative counterparts, support surged amid Trumps targeting of Canada, delivering Carney a victory last month.

Ahead of his meeting with Carney, Trump took a less playful tone than in person. He wrote in a post on Truth Social that America doesnt need ANYTHING from Canada while Canada needs EVERYTHING from us!
A woman is dead after an alligator attack in Florida on Tuesday.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Polk County Sheriffs deputies told our sister WFTV-TV in Orlando that they received a call at 4:05 p.m. to assist the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regarding an alligator attack.

It happened at Lake Kissimmee State Park.

TRENDING STORIES:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Deputies said two people were canoeing on a lake when the incident happened.

WFTV says the woman later recovered from the water and was declared dead.

The incident remains under investigation.

[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
CANTON, Miss. (WJTV)  Dozens of people gathered at Canton City Hall on Tuesday, calling for action by elected officials.

State Rep. Lawrence Blackmon (D-District 57) and community members said law enforcement agencies are not doing enough to stop the violence.

Canton community wants justice for slain gun violence victims

The aldermen and the mayor were not available to speak on the matter because the Board went into executive session before the town hall meeting was scheduled to begin on Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I told the city government what I have been telling the citizens of Canton for the past two weeks, that we have a problem. Its obvious everyone knows it, and we, the elected officials, have dropped the ball. And while we have been asleep at the wheel, folks have been dying, said Blackmon.

Blackmon said if no action happens, he will sue the City of Canton and call for an investigation by the Mississippi Attorney Generals Office.

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Daily 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 WJTV.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. Speaker of the Milli Majlis Sahiba Gafarova has met with President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan during her official visit to the United Arab Emirates, Trend reports.

Warmly welcoming the Speaker of the Milli Majlis of Azerbaijan, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed confidence that this visit would contribute to the further expansion of the ties between our parliaments.

Having expressed gratitude for the host's generous hospitality, Speaker Sahiba Gafarova conveyed the greetings of President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan requested that his greetings be conveyed to President Ilham Aliyev.

It was then remarked as the conversation went on that there is close co-operation between Azerbaijan and the United Arab Emirates in political, economic and other areas; the existence of extensive opportunities for the further expansion of these ties was mentioned as well.

It was said next that the active political dialogue and consistent contacts between the Heads of State factored crucially in the progress of our co-operation. The purposeful efforts of the state authorities within the strategic vectors defined by our Heads of State have generated opportunities to develop our relations in various fields whilst the inter-state bonds have evolved to the level of strategic partnership thus entering a new phase qualitatively. Besides, it was emphasised that our countries and nations have secured considerable successes under the fruitful leadership of the Heads of State.

At the meeting both sides expressed satisfaction with the strong development of the ties between our parliaments, which is a key aspect of co-operation between our countries. Speaker Sahiba Gafarova remarked that this visit is her first to the United Arab Emirates as Head of the Milli Majlis, and proceeded to share the details of the discussions held during it. She emphasised the significance of the Memorandum of Understanding signed yesterday between the Milli Majlis of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Federal National Council of the United Arab Emirates, pointing out that this document will pave the way for further strengthening of the co-operation between the two sides.

The conversation moved onto the successful collaboration between our legislatures, bilateral as well as in international parliamentary organisations. Our MPs keep up close contacts and ensure mutual support in such entities as the Inter-Parliamentary Union, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation, the Asian Parliamentary Assembly and, in Paris, the Parliamentary Network of the Non-Aligned Movement, which was established upon the initiative of the President of Azerbaijan.

As the President of the United Arab Emirates stressed then, the ties between the parliaments oheld a pride of place in the system of inter-state relationship. It was also said that deepening the collaboration in that area would provide for a further rapprochement of our nations.

The significance of the ties in the humanitarian sphere was emphasised as the conversation continued; it was said that the further development of relations in the fields of education, science and culture, the continued arrangement of cultural events on a reciprocal basis as well as connexions between our towns and provinces are all such initiatives that may contribute to our peoples becoming closer to each other.

The meeting also included an exchange of views on other issues of mutual interest.
(AP)  With all the pomp, drama and solemnity that the Catholic Church can muster, 133 cardinals on Wednesday began the centuries-old rituals to elect a successor to Pope Francis, celebrating a morning Mass before opening the most geographically diverse conclave in the faiths 2,000-year history.

Hailing from 70 countries, the cardinals are being sequestered from the outside world, their cellphones surrendered and airwaves around the Vatican jammed to prevent them from all communications until they find a new leader for the 1.4 billion-member church.

Francis named 108 of the 133 princes of the church, choosing many pastors in his image from far-flung countries like Mongolia, Sweden and Tonga that had never had a cardinal before.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

His decision to surpass the usual limit of 120 cardinal electors and include younger ones from the global south  those often marginalized countries with lower economic clout  has injected an unusual degree of uncertainty in a process that is always full of mystery and suspense.

Many hadnt met one another until last week and lamented they needed more time to get to know one another, raising questions about how long it might take for one man to secure the two-thirds majority, or 89 ballots, necessary to become the 267th pope.

Wait and see, a little patience, wait and see, said Cardinal Mario Zenari, the Vaticans ambassador to Syria as he arrived for the final day of pre-vote discussions.

A final Mass, then All out

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The cardinals began the day by participating in a final pre-conclave Mass in St. Peters Basilica. The dean of the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re, celebrated the Mass, which is meant to pray for cardinals to find the wisdom, counsel and understanding to elect a worthy new shepherd.

Wearing bright red vestments, the cardinals processed down the central aisle of the basilica as the Sistine Chapels boys choir sang. They took up their seats around the main altar, which lies above the traditional burial place of St. Peter, considered to be the first pope.

Re, 91, had presided at Francis funeral, delivering a heartfelt sermon recalling historys first Latin American pope and the reforming 12-year papacy he oversaw.

At 4:30 p.m. (1430 GMT; 10:30 a.m. EDT) the cardinals walk solemnly into the frescoed Sistine Chapel, chanting the meditative Litany of the Saints and the Latin hymn Veni Creator, imploring the saints and the Holy Spirit to help them pick a pope.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Once there, they pledge to maintain secrecy about what is about to transpire and to not allow any interference, opposition or any other form of intervention from outsiders to influence their voting.

Standing before Michelangelos vision of heaven and hell in The Last Judgment, each cardinal places his hand on the Gospel and swears to carry out that duty so help me God and these Holy Gospels, which I touch with my hand.

The awesomeness of the chapels frescoes, and Michelangelos in particular, is meant to remind the cardinals of the weighty responsibility they bear. In his regulations for the conclave, St. John Paul II wrote that in the Sistine Chapel, everything is conducive to an awareness of the presence of God, in whose sight each person will one day be judged.

After the cardinals take their oaths, a senior cardinal delivers a meditation. The master of papal liturgical ceremonies, Archbishop Diego Ravelli, calls out Extra omnes, Latin for all out. Anyone not eligible to vote then leaves and the chapel doors close, allowing the work to begin.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The cardinals dont have to take a first vote on Wednesday, but they usually do. Assuming no winner is found, the Vatican said black smoke could be expected out of the Sistine Chapel chimney at around 7 p.m.

The cardinals retire for the night and return Thursday morning. They can hold up to two ballots in the morning and two in the afternoon until a winner is found.

While cardinals this week said they expected a short conclave, it will likely take at least a few rounds of voting. For the past century, it has taken between three and eight ballots to find a pope. John Paul I  the pope who reigned for 33 days in 1978  was elected on the third ballot. His successor, John Paul II, needed eight. Francis was elected on the fifth in 2013.

Lobbying before the conclave

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While the cardinals are supposed to resist any secular influences in their choice, such lobbying abounded in Rome in the days before the conclave as various groups reminded cardinals of what ordinary Catholics want in a leader.

Young Catholics penned an open letter reminding cardinals that there is no church without young people, women and the laity. Conservative Catholic media slipped cardinals copies of a glossy book containing their assessments of contenders. Survivors of clergy sexual abuse warned cardinals that they would be held accountable if they failed to find a leader who will crack down on decades of abuse and cover-up.

Advocates for womens ordination were sending pink smoke signals over the Vatican to demand that women be allowed to be priests.

Challenges facing a new pope

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There are any number of challenges facing a new pope and weighing on the cardinals, above all whether to continue and consolidate Francis progressive legacy on promoting women, LGBTQ+ acceptance, the environment and migrants, or roll it back to try to unify a church that became more polarized during his pontificate. The clergy sex abuse scandal hung over the pre-conclave talks.

Since Francis chose 80% of the voters, continuity is likely, but the form it might take is uncertain.

As a result, identifying front-runners has been a challenge. But some names keep appearing on lists of papabile, or cardinals having the qualities to be pope.

 Cardinal Pietro Parolin, 70, is a leading Italian, by nature of his office. He was Francis secretary of state, the Vatican No. 2, so known to every cardinal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 Filipino Cardinal Luis Tagle, 67, is a top candidate to be historys first Asian pope. He had a similarly high-profile job, heading the Vaticans evangelization office responsible for the Catholic Church in much of the developing world.

 Hungarian Cardinal Peter Erdo, 72, the archbishop of Budapest, is a leading candidate representing the more conservative wing of the church.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Only a few hundred metres separate the Vatican's guest quarters in Saint Martha House and the Sistine Chapel  the hub of the process to appoint a successor to the late pope Francis.

The cardinals will commute back and forth within the Vatican walls between the voting rounds of the conclave in the Sistine Chapel to the residence, where the late pope lived in preference to the much grander Apostolic Palace.

How often depends solely on them  they are not required to indulge in hasty ballot casting  and the electors are duly accommodated in the residence during this tense and often protracted process.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As in the Sistine Chapel, they are completely shielded from the outside world while at rest: All mobile phones and electronic devices must be handed in, windows are sealed and shutters locked. Televisions and newspapers are also forbidden.

Cardinals once slept in Sistine Chapel

The Vatican is used to hosting cardinals in the five-storey Domus Sanctae Marthae, as it is officially known. After the conclaves of 2005 and 2013, this is the third time that the papal electors have stayed in the residence during the conclave.

Previously - most recently in 1978 - the cardinals spent the night in the Apostolic Palace. In the past, sleeping cells were even set up in the Sistine Chapel and adjoining rooms for this purpose.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pope John Paul II had the Saint Martha House built between 1992 and 1996.

In times when no conclave is held, the inconspicuous building in the south of Vatican City accommodates guests of the pope and the Roman Curia, the administrative institutions of the Holy See.

Lack of space in guest house

Saint Martha House will be particularly cramped during this conclave, with 133 cardinals entitled to vote - more than ever before.

The premises contain only 106 suites, 22 single rooms and one larger apartment.

One suite may not be used: the guest house was Francis' last residence, and his suite, number 201, is still closed with a red ribbon and a wax seal that only the new pope is allowed to break.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some cardinals therefore have to move to rooms in an adjacent building. The move-in date for all of them is from Tuesday evening to Wednesday morning before the big opening Mass of the conclave.

Until then, the rooms will be prepared for the coming days of full occupancy.

The cardinals will not be completely alone in the guest house: Medical staff, cooks and other workers will also stay in the buildings during the conclave and care for the distinguished guests during this time.

But Saint Martha House is not just where the voting clerics sleep: It is also a place to talk, discuss and possibly forge alliances after inconclusive ballots.

There are several ways to meet: in the dining room, in the corridors or in the rooms. Pope Francis wrote in his autobiography that he was bombarded with questions in the guest house before his election.
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP)  The conclave begins Wednesday. This comes after Pope Francis died at 88 years old back on April 21.

Cardinal electors will be tasked with selecting the 267th Pope of the Catholic church.

With the conclusion of the official mourning period for Pope Francis comes a shift in focus to the conclavewho will be the next pope? While there are a few top contenders, 22News dug a little deeper into the process itself, which is rooted in tradition from over 2,000 years ago.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ahead of the papal conclave, 133 cardinals have gathered in Vatican City, and one will emerge as the new pope. During a conclave, an assembly of cardinals, under age 80, meets in strict seclusion to elect a new pope.

The secret election can take days or even weeks. Springfield Bishop William Byrne imagines that this year may take a bit longer  since its the largest and most diverse group of cardinals to attend a conclave in church history. Sometimes the process of deciding who would be pope became very contentious, so the locking in was to make sure that it sped up, Bishop Byrne says. In the past, it was a smaller number, and many from Europe, so they wouldve known each other.

Cardinals cast four votes a day until they reach a two-thirds majority agreement. With each vote, they burn their ballots in a stove installed in the Sistine Chapel  a tradition dating back to the thirteenth century.

Smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney will be used to announce whether or not a decision has been made. Black smoke means no  white smoke indicates a successor for Pope Francis has been chosen.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As for who that will beBishop Byrne believes hell likely remind us of the pope of the people, someone we probably dont know, but will be a great gift to the church as we move into the next decade.

Wednesdays conclave will begin with a public mass at St. Peters Basilica at 10 amthe Cardinals will pray for the guidance of the holy spirit during the selection process. Theyll process into the Sistine Chapel later in the afternoon.

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.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said he asked President Trump during their meeting Tuesday to stop calling his neighbors to the north the 51st state, insisting the president will not get his wish.

In a press conference at the Canadian Embassy following his meeting at the White House, a reporter asked Carney if he pushed Trump to stop calling Canada the 51st state because it offends Canadians, and the new prime minister responded yes.

Today, he said of when he pushed back on Trumps 51st state remark, and added exactly what you just said when pressed for specifics on the comment to the president.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump has refused to back off on talk of Canada potentially joining the U.S., but he appeared friendlier toward Carney than he had been in recent months toward former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, whom he repeatedly mocked and called governor.

The president has made known his wish about that issue for some time. Ive been careful always to distinguish between wish and reality, Carney told reporters.

He said he would not speak for Trump when asked for the presidents response.

Well see, look, I dont know. Hes the president, hes his own person. I would go back to showing the difference between a wish and a reality, Carney said. Were very clear, Ive been very clear publicly consistently. Ive been clear in private. I was very clear again in the Oval Office, have been clear throughout.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The president, he understands that were having a negotiation between sovereign nations and that we will only pursue and accept a deal that is in the best interest of Canada, not just in the short term but in the medium and long term for Canada, he added, referring to negotiations over tariffs.

Carney said that Trump was willing to discuss lowering tariffs on Canadian goods and said he would follow up in the coming weeks about a trade deal. Trump, while speaking to reporters alongside Carney before the meeting, said there was nothing the prime minister could do to lift the tariffs on Canada.

The Trump administration has imposed 25 percent tariffs on Canadian goods, though certain imports covered under the trade deal between the U.S., Canada and Mexico that was signed in 2020 are exempt.

Meanwhile, Trump officials have said they are negotiating with other countries about reciprocal tariffs on dozens of other trading partners, including allies such as India, South Korea and Japan, during a 90-day pause on those tariffs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Sixteen people have been arrested and 3 million pills laced with fentanyl were seized in what federal prosecutors said Tuesday was the "largest fentanyl bust in DEA history."

The operation, which spanned several states along in the West, "marks the most significant victory in our nation's fight against fentanyl and drug trafficking to date," Attorney General Pam Bondi said.

Among those arrested was a Sinaloa cartel leader, Heriberto Salazar Amaya, 36, a Mexican national, who was taken into custody in Salem, Oregon, Bondi said at a press conference. In February, the State Department designated the Sinaloa cartel as a foreign terrorist organization.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Asked whether any of those arrested would be deported to Mexico, Bondi said "I want them to stay in our prisons as long as possible."

"Most of these individuals, if convicted, will remain in American prisons, perhaps Alcatraz," the attorney general added in reference to the shuttered California prison that President Trump said he wants to reopen.

Posters showing arrested individuals are seen before U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi held a press conference at the Treasury Department in Washington, DC, on May 6, 2025. Bondi announced the outcome of a weeklong, multi-agency enforcement operation targeting one of the largest drug trafficking organizations. / Credit: OLIVER CONTRERAS/AFP via Getty Images

The Justice Department said law enforcement officials seized more than 400 kilograms (880 pounds) of fentanyl pills, 11.5 kilos of fentanyl powder, 80 kilos of methamphetamine, 7.5 kilos of cocaine and 4.5 kilos of heroin. The bust also netted $5 million in cash and 49 rifles and pistols, U.S. officials said, while releasing several images of the seized items.

"This case represents DEA's largest single seizure of fentanyl pills," said Robert Murphy, the acting administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bondi said 75,000 Americans are dying each year because of fentanyl and it is the number one cause of death for people between the ages of 18 and 34 in the United States.

"They are flooding our cities with a weapon of mass destruction, fentanyl," she said.

Ryan Ellison, U.S. attorney for the district of New Mexico, said the "sophisticated fentanyl and narcotics distribution network" spanned New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon and Utah.

Ellison said the 16 people arrested face various federal charges including conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and firearms offenses.

Posters of seized drugs are seen before U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi held a press conference at the Treasury Department in Washington, D.C., on May 6, 2025. / Credit: OLIVER CONTRERAS/AFP via Getty Images

The DEA says drug overdoses are the leading cause of death for Americans between the ages of 18 and 44, though most states have seen fewer deaths over the last few years. Between 2022 and 2023, overdose deaths decreased by 4% nationwide, marking the first such decline since the start of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. Overdose deaths fell 17% between July 2023 and July 2024.

Sneak peek: The Depraved Heart Murder

Why Hegseth is calling for cuts to senior ranks across U.S. military

Analyzing Trump's announcement of ceasefire with Houthi rebels in Yemen
CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT)  The Carteret County Sheriffs Office is warning residents of ongoing scam calls of people pretending to be law enforcement to get money.

These callers will typically claim to be law enforcement and falsely tell victims that they have an outstanding warrant for issues such as missed court appearances, failure to report for jury duty, or unpaid fines. They will then threaten immediate arrest if the payment isnt made, requesting for different methods of payment including cash, credit cards, gift cards, payment applications, or even cryptocurrency.

They will often times use the names of actual deputies or police officers and manipulate their caller ID to appear as if the call is coming from local law enforcement, which is called spoofing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sheriff Asa Buck said that legitimate law enforcement agencies in North Carolina will never contact individuals by phone to demand money for missing jury duty or court dates. If you were to miss jury duty, the court would most likely issue a show cause order requiring them to appear in court to explain their absence.

The simplest way to avoid becoming a victim of these scams is to hang up the phone

immediately, stated Buck. Do not let your guard down or be intimidated into providing

personal or financial information. Real deputies will not call and threaten you with arrest, so

if you receive such a call, simply hang up.

If you have been a victim of these scams, call the Carteret County Communication Center at 252-726-1911 and request to speak with a police officer in their town or a deputy sheriff.

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 WNCT.
An unredacted audio snippet nearly derailed the weekslong criminal trial of former Tennessee House Speaker Glen Casada and his former chief of staff Cade Cothren, but the judge decided it was not prejudicial enough to warrant a new trial.

The government also rested its case against the two men accused of running a bribery scheme.

U.S. District Judge Eli Richardson denied a motion for mistrial the morning of May 7. Brought by defense attorneys a day before, the motion ground proceedings to a halt and sent the jury home for a full day. The jury was brought back in around 9:45 a.m. May 7.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The government rested its case around noon after hearing testimony from an FBI agent who interviewed Casada at his home in early 2021. Casada and Cothren's attorneys will have the opportunity to call their own witnesses when jurors return May 8 at 10 a.m.

Defense attorneys asked for a mistrial after prosecutors mistakenly played part of a recorded interview between Casada and FBI agents that was supposed to be redacted for jurors.

Here's what the jury was not supposed to hear from Casada's interview: "Cade (Cothren) felt like they would not let him do the work or not approve the work if they knew it was Cade." Richardson explained May 7 that "they" in that sentence refers to current House Speaker Cameron Sexton and his office.

Cade Cothren, a former top aide in the Tennessee House Of Representatives, arrives with his attorney Cynthia Sherwood at the Fred D. Thompson Courthouse for his trial on federal charges ranging from theft to money laundering conspiracy Tuesday, April 22, 2025 in Nashville, Tenn. Cothren and his former boss, Former Tennessee House Speaker Glen Casada, face 20 fraud related charges that could to decades in prison.

Casada and Cothren are accused of steering state funds for political mailers to a consulting firm owned by Cothren while hiding Cothren's involvement in the company. At the time of the alleged crime, Cothren had been blacklisted from Tennessee politics because of his involvement in a lewd and racist texting scandal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Prosecutors say Cothren conspired with Casada to pressure fellow lawmakers into using the mailer company in return for kickbacks.

The defense has argued the case is a form of political payback from the current House speaker.

Cothren's attorneys were concerned the contested part of the recording was prejudicial to Cothren. They argued it was not allowed due to a legal rule prohibiting statements of one co-defendant implicating another co-defendant.

Richardson, while noting the mistake was "unfair" to Cothren and "messed up," found Casada's statement itself "very routine" and not "powerfully incriminating" to either defendant. A great deal of evidence already presented in the trial had suggested the same thing it did, Richardson said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The trial is now in its third week. A mistrial would mean the case would start over with a new jury. Casada and Cothren each face up to 20 years in prison.

This story was updated to correct a date.

Have questions about the justice system? Evan Mealins is the justice reporter for The Tennessean. Contact him with questions, tips or story ideas at emealins@tennessean.com.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Casada, Cothren mistrial motion fails in corruption case
GREENE COUNTY, Mo.  Greene County Prosecuting Attorney Dan Patterson has dismissed the case against a CoxHealth doctor who was charged with second-degree sexual abuse and sexual contact with a student in 2024.

According to a filing from the prosecutors office, the state has dismissed the case against Louis Phillip Krenn Jr. without prejudice due to witness unavailability.

The victim, an international exchange student, has returned to her home country and decided not to travel back for testimony.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The anticipated stress of testifying, compounded by the significant burden of international travel during school, has created legitimate concerns for the victims wellbeing, the prosecutors office says.

Lakeland Behavioral Health faces lawsuit alleging child sex abuse

The state believes that pursuing prosecution at this time would impose undue hardship on the victim, the prosecutors office added.

Krenns lawyer, Stacie Bilyeu, released a statement to Ozarks First regarding the dismissal.

We are glad this ordeal is over and that Dr. Krenn can finally move forward with his life, Bilyeu said. Dr. Krenn has unwaveringly maintained his innocence throughout, and we were most certainly prepared and ready to defend that innocence at trial.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I read the States letter of dismissal, Bilyeu said. The State can list whatever reasons it wishes for dismissal, I suppose, but I certainly believe there were many other reasons warranting the dismissal of this case in addition to those listed. The bottom line is, we were prepared for trial and the State chose to dismiss the case before we got there.

Since the dismissal is filed without prejudice, the state has preserved the right to reinstate charges should circumstances change, according to the filing.

According to previous Ozarks First coverage, the Battlefield, Missouri Police Department (BPD) received a tip from a girl who reported that Krenn sexually abused her, inappropriately touching her and offering her cash for inappropriate images and videos of herself.

In an interview with the victim, she said Krenn touched her inappropriately and did not stop even after she asked him to. She also confirmed that Krenn wanted photos of her in a bikini.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the probable cause statement, Krenn allegedly abused the girl while he was involved in a volunteer position through Springfield Public Schools. A search warrant was served on April 23, 2024, and Krenn made admissions and corroborated most of the incidents described by the victim, the probable cause statement says.

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.
On Friday, President Donald Trump released his budget proposal, which included targeted cuts to federal clean energy programs and ending funding to what the president calls "the Green New Scam." The Trump administration is now shifting its focus to energy efficiency programs. CNN reported Tuesday that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plans to shutter the Energy Star program.

First launched under President George H.W. Bush in 1992, Energy Star sets voluntary energy efficiency standards for appliances and buildings. Products that meet the program's standards are allowed to display the Energy Star label, which is recognized by 90 percent of American households, according to the program's website. The program also helps homeowners utilize federal energy efficiency tax credits.

Energy Star says it has saved consumers more than $500 billion in energy costs since 1992, with $42 billion saved in 2020 alone. The use of Energy Star products has also prevented 4 billion tons of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from entering the atmosphere, according to the EPA. The EPA says the estimated annual market value of Energy Star product sales is $100 billion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While the EPA has not confirmed that it will ax Energy Star, industry groups are lobbying the agency to keep the program intact.

"Eliminating the Energy Star program would directly contradict this administration's promise to reduce household energy costs," Paula Glover, president of Alliance to Save Energy (a nonprofit that has lobbied to keep Energy Star in the past), told CNN. A coalition of appliance manufacturers and HVAC and boiler companies sent a letter to the EPA saying that eliminating the program "will not serve the American people," reports NOTUS.

This is not the first time that Trump has proposed ending the popular program. In 2017, the president floated cutting Energy Star but the plan was halted after more than 1,000 organizations implored Congress to protect the program.

Despite having a relatively small budgetthe program costs about $50 million per year and represents less than 1 percent of the EPA's spendingand being one of the "most innocuous" government programs, there are reasons to reconsider Energy Star, Nick Loris, vice president of public policy at the free market energy think tank C3 Solutions, tells Reason.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"In an age of information and where the cost of getting that information is pretty low, consumers readily have access to the many different attributes they value in the product. And the product manufacturers can still advertise the energy savings from their products" without a federal program, says Loris.

A March white paper from the Competitive Enterprise Institute on modernizing the EPA says "green purchasing programs" like Energy Star "assume the federal government needs to meddle in the marketplace by providing its seal of approval on what it deems to be environmentally satisfactory products." The paper continues, arguing, "If consumers demand certain information, then businesses will respond by disseminating this information to them." If a labeling system is needed, "then private certification organizations should play such a role."

The Cato Institute, meanwhile, has called Energy Star "a very coarse piece of energy information that may crowd out efforts" to develop more accurate ways to measure energy operating costs.

Despite the benefits that Energy Star has provided to consumers and the environment, the program is yet another example of the government doing a job that the private sector could do better. Cutting the program may not substantially reduce federal spending, but it would reduce federal creep in consumer choices.

The post The Case for Eliminating Energy Star appeared first on Reason.com.
WASHINGTON COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now)  Washington County health officials issued an alert after a cat tested positive for rabies in Hagerstown.

In a release on May 7, the Washington County Health Department said the cat was found near the McDonalds, located at 18411 Maugans Ave., and tested positive for rabies.

Authorities euthanized the cat. As of Wednesday morning, there were no known human exposures in the area.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, officials noted that anyone who had contact with any cats outside the McDonalds location before May 1 should contact the health department at 240-313-3210.

REAL ID: What is it, how to get one in DC, Maryland, Virginia

Rabies, a deadly viral disease that attacks the nervous system, spreads to people from the saliva of infected animals. Someone is considered to have been exposed to rabies if they are bitten or scratched by an infected animal.

Rabies has been well established in Maryland since 1983, so the public is reminded to avoid all wild or unknown animals whenever possible since exposure to rabies can occur anywhere and anytime, said the health department in the release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. Nazim Muradov, a PhD at the University of Central Florida and a special projects researcher at the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC), has ranked among the top "2024 Highly Rated Scholars" list of the world's leading scientific analytics platform ScholarGPS, a source in the Azerbaijani State Committee on Work with Diaspora told Trend.

His productive scientific activity and contributions in this field led to a high rating.

Muradov has been a special projects researcher at the FSEC, one of the leading research centers in the field of hydrogen research, since 1992. As a member of the NASA research team, he participated in the development of a unique hydrogen sensor that was successfully tested during the "Space Shuttle Endeavour" mission. The team represented by the outstanding scientist was awarded the R&D100 award.

I am greatly honored to have earned the title of Highly Ranked Scholar, says Muradov.

I consider it a testament to the high appreciation of the scientific merit and high quality of the research work conducted at FSEC over the years, particularly in the field of hydrogen energy and technology.

Since the mid-1980s, FSEC has been one of the leading research centers actively involved in all aspects of hydrogen research: production, storage, and utilization. Muradov joined FSEC in 1990, and his main areas of research have included thermocatalytic and photocatalytic hydrogen production systems, solar-powered water-splitting cycles, advanced biofuels, fossil fuel decarbonization, hydrogen sensors, and radiant detoxification of hazardous wastes.

ScholarGPS is the premier online source for the analysis of scholarly activity. The platform provides the first fully quantitative rankings of all scholars, research institutions, universities, and academic programs worldwide. In addition to providing these unique rankings, ScholarGPS provides detailed profiles for each of over 30 million scholars and 120,000 research institutions, including over 24,000 academic institutions in more than 200 countries.

Nazim Muradov was awarded the "Taraggi" medal in 2023.

Further details about the achievements of the Azerbaijani scholar can be seen here:

https://blog.energyresearch.ucf.edu/2025/04/scholargps-names-fsec-ucf-researcher-muradov-as-highly-ranked-scholar/

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Arizonas intense summer heat has always carried the potential for wildfire disaster. But in 2025, the threat we face is not theoretical. Its inevitable.

Somewhere across our vast, beautiful state  maybe in the forests around Flagstaff, the wildland-urban interfaces in Cave Creek or the brush country near Payson  a spark will catch, the wind will howl, and a firestorm will erupt.

I cannot tell you precisely where it will happen or how much devastation it will cause. But I can say with certainty that this summer, Arizona will confront a catastrophic wildfire.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And we are dangerously unprepared for it.

Across the Valley, neighborhoods have pushed further into high-risk wildland areas  places filled with dense, dry vegetation thats been hammered by drought. Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, Cave Creek, Estrella Mountain Ranch, Apache Junction and San Tan Valley all sit atop dangerous fuel beds.

Meanwhile, across Arizona the firefighting forces tasked with protecting communities like these are often undermanned and underfunded, victims of years of inaction.

Arizona fire districts struggle to hire enough staff

Arizonas fire districts  particularly those in rural and semi-rural areas  are in crisis. Many cannot afford enough full-time firefighters to maintain coverage around the clock.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Delayed response times have become the norm, not the exception. In some areas, it can take more than an hour for help to arrive in a life-threatening emergency. For fires, thats the difference between containment and catastrophe.

Voters rejected a critical funding solution, Proposition 310, in 2022. Since then, the Professional Fire Fighters of Arizona and fire district leaders have asked lawmakers for help  only to be met with recognition of the problem but no real action.

Fortunately, legislators like Rep. David Marshall are now working to find results that protect the Arizonans we all proudly serve.

The consequences of delay are predictable and dire. Weve already seen near-disasters, such as the 2020 fires in Cave Creek, where private firefighting services were quickly overwhelmed and only mutual aid from nearby districts prevented a tragedy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Weve seen the toll that shifting winds can take  from the Rodeo-Chediski Fire near Show Low in 2002 to the Granite Mountain Hotshots tragic loss outside Prescott in 2013.

Lawmakers are hosting hearings to discuss reforms

This year, Arizona will once again test its luck. Without serious investment in people, equipment, aerial firefighting capabilities and strategic fire mitigation, luck may not be enough.

There is hope on the horizon. The newly formed House Fire Preparedness Ad Hoc Committee, chaired by Rep. Marshall, offers a real opportunity to tackle these issues head-on.

A public hearing was recently held in Phoenix. Others in Payson, Prescott and Flagstaff will bring together firefighters, local officials, legislators and citizens to confront our wildfire vulnerabilities and discuss reforms  from fire district funding to creating a more robust statewide wildfire response agency.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Opinion: LA ran out of water during fires. Could that happen in Phoenix?

Arizonas firefighters will play an active role in shaping this conversation. We will push for practical reforms: more permanent aerial firefighting assets, modernized mitigation efforts and a commitment to funding the frontline defenders who will stand between wildfire and our homes, businesses and families.

But lets not kid ourselves: the solutions this committee explores will not arrive in time to protect us this summer.

It won't stop wildfires this year, so prepare now

In the meantime, we must acknowledge the reality we face. Arizona is standing at the edge of a firestorm, with too few firefighters, too few resources and too little time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To Arizonas lawmakers, residents and business owners, I say this: prepare now. Support your local fire districts. Clear defensible space around homes and businesses.

Understand evacuation plans. Pressure your elected leaders to prioritize public safety over political expediency.

And know that when the call comes  as it surely will  Arizonas professional firefighters will answer. As we always have. As we always will. But without the tools we need, even our best efforts may not be enough.

Its not a question of if. Its a question of when. The time for serious action is long overdue.

Professional Fire Fighters of Arizona President Dan Freiberg has been a firefighter since 2001. Reach him on Facebook @PFFAZ.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona is not prepared for wildfires, firefighter says | Opinion
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)  A group of 133 cardinals from 70 countries will begin the process of electing a new pope on Wednesday inside the Sistine Chapel.

The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist will hold a special Wednesday night mass to pray over the College of Cardinals and the election of the Catholic churchs new leader.

Who are the contenders to be pope?

Bishop Jacques Fabre-Jeune will host the service asking that the Holy Spirit impart its wisdom on the College of Cardinals as they vote for the new shepherd for the universal Catholic Church, according to the Diocese of Charlestons office of communications.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The mass will begin at 7 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist (120 Broad Street).

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 WCBD News 2.
ST. LOUIS  Scott Bates and his camping friends made an unexpected visit to the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis on Wednesday. The group of Catholics from northern Illinois wanted to see the site where Pope John Paul II visited in 1999.

Its amazing, Bates said. Its a wonderful church.

Little did the campers know that Wednesday would end up including a mass for the opening of the papal conclave.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This was just a God-driven coincidence, Bates said. Were very happy to be here.

During Wednesdays gathering, prayers were said for cardinal electors who will select the next pontiff.

Its so important to pray, Barbara McElroy, a worshiper attending Wednesdays mass, said. I think sometimes we forget that God does inspire us.

Why you may see mice and snakes impaled on Missouri fences

Some area Catholics said they hope the next pope will lead in a way that unites, works to end violence and wars, and inspires the church to serve.

Others said their faith leads them to trust in the process now underway to select the next head of the Roman Catholic Church.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I pray that the cardinal electors listen to the Holy Spirit and choose the man that God wants, Deacon Hank Schmalen, from St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church in West Dundee, Illinois, said. He was among the campers who visited the Cathedral Basilica.

We were going to hike today and come here tomorrow, but again, you know, its a God thing were here today, he 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 FOX 2.
CLEVELAND, Ohio (WKBN)  Three key Cleveland Cavaliers standouts have been ruled out for Tuesday nights game two of the Eastern Conference Semifinals.

Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com is reporting that Darius Garland (sprained toe), DAndre Hunter (dislocated thumb), and Evan Mobley (ankle sprain) will not play as Cleveland looks to bounce back from Sunday nights 121-112 loss.

Tuesday nights tipoff is slated for 7 p.m. from Rocket Arena.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Pacers lead the Cavaliers, 1-0, in the best-of-seven series.

Following Tuesday nights game, the series shifts to Indiana for Game 3 at 7:30 p.m. on Friday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

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.
Update at 7 a.m. on 5-7-25: State Route 38A has reopened, as well as other secondary roadways at the southern end of Cayuga County, according to the county sheriffs office.

They also advise using caution when driving with ongoing flooding and debris on the roads.

CAYUGA COUNTY, N.Y. (WSYR-TV)  The Cayuga County Sheriffs Office is alerting drivers of road closures due to flooding.

The Sheriffs Office says rainfall on Tuesday, May 6, has caused them to close State Route 38A from Dewitt Road in Niles to Sayles Corners Road in Moravia.

Drivers are warned that they should not drive through flooded roadways as culverts could be washed out below the surface and that some waterways could be moving swiftly and dangerously.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They also advise drivers that some secondary roads in the area are also flooded and impassable, as well as many roads in King Ferry and the southern end of Cayuga County.

The Sheriffs Office says additional rainfall forecasted for Tuesday and Wednesday may make it difficult in these areas and that drivers should plan accordingly.

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 WSYR.
LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56)  The Kentucky Blood Center (KBC) is teaming up with first responders in a new partnership thats expected to save lives and show that teamwork is in their blood.

KBC announced that the organization is officially partnering with Georgetown/Scott County Emergency Medical Services, Jessamine County EMS, Lexington Fire and Emergency Services, and Madison County EMS in getting crucial units of blood to those in need.

Starting June 1, the four EMS groups will reportedly start carrying units of blood to ensure rapid response times in life-threatening situations while en route to the hospital. Madison County EMS assistant director Andrew Kilgore has always been an advocate for donating blood, and he stepped up right away Wednesday to donate again.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After 2 major flooding disasters, Jessamine County recognized for storm preparedness

My blood could potentially be the blood thats used on a scene in my community. That makes it even more impactful and more important for me to continue to give blood regularly, Kilgore said. I think itll make the relationships and the ability for us to care for our citizens much stronger and more powerful because of the partnership thats been developed over the past years working towards this.

Dr. Andrew Bernard is the trauma medical director at UK Healthcare, meaning hes also excited to see this partnership come to life.

Now, when people are bleeding, it could be at their home, their garage, or at an accident scene; the paramedic will arrive and not just bring IV fluid. Theyll bring blood that somebody else gave that, when given to them, will make the bleeding stop. Thats really transformational, Bernard said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

KBC director of media and branding Eric Lindsey said its one less hurdle to cross when trying to save lives. It will take the help of donors to keep the supply strong, and the first responders are already on the case.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

Its no surprise to see them step up here and donate blood because theyre the ones doing life-saving tactics like getting them to the hospital to transfuse blood. Now, theyre going to be some of the same folks who are going to be giving that blood, Lindsey said.

If its determined that we need more blood, then thats what will spur the growth of this program. I hope its through impacting patients and not the number of patients, Kilgore added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
A Central Valley High School graduate and current UC Berkeley student remains hospitalized and paralyzed after a tragic and devastating fall, according to a family members GoFundMe post.

On April 19 during Cal Day  an open house event held to welcome newly admitted students  Bandna Bhatti fell from the external stairway at the Phi Kappa Tau fraternity house and struck her head, a family member told KTVU.

KTVU also reported that Bhatti was found at the narrow passageway outside the fraternity house 15 minutes later and taken to her apartment. No one called 911 until around seven hours later.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bhatti suffered several injuries, including a brain hematoma, a tearing of the dura with spinal fluid leakage, a scapular and spinal fracture, the GoFundMe page says. She is currently paralyzed from the waist down.

The fall occurred just days before Bhatti was set to graduate with a degree in data science.

These injuries are not only life-altering but will require extensive and ongoing medical care, including physical therapy, rehabilitation, and specialized support to help her navigate this new chapter, the GoFundMe page states. The journey ahead is extensive and demanding, but with your assistance, we hope to provide the vital resources she requires, specialized care, adaptive equipment and essential home modifications to help Bandna regain as much independence as possible.

The GoFundMe page, which is focused on helping Bhatti receive specialized care and handle medical expenses, has raised over $106,000 as of Tuesday morning.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Baljinder Bhatti, Bandnas father, told The Bee on Monday that his daughter has no feeling and movement in her lower body.

Matt Arnold, the chief executive officer for the National Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity, said in a statement that the fraternity is cooperating with university officials and local authorities in the investigation of the incident

We are deeply concerned by recent reports of an incident involving a young student who was reportedly injured near the Phi Kappa Tau chapter house at the University of California, Berkeley, the statement read. We are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and are fully cooperating with the university officials and local authorities in their investigation.

Adam Ratliff, campus spokesperson, stated in an email to The Bee that the Berkeley Police Department also is investigating the incident.

UC Berkeley is aware of an ongoing police investigation regarding reports of a student being injured off-campus near or at a fraternity. Our thoughts are with the student, their family, loved ones and friends during this time. We are following our protocols to offer support to the student and their family, Ratliff wrote.
Are California Democrats weak when it comes to protecting minors from sex trafficking?

It's a question that has caused chaos in the state Capitol for more than a week. But really, it's a question Republicans have been asking  and answering with a resounding yes  for years.

At the risk of stating the obvious, I'll let you know that California has some of the toughest laws against sex trafficking in the country, including protecting minors. But there's long been contention about how laws regarding older teens, those 16 and 17 and still underage, should be written and enforced. I'll explain why in a minute.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It's also obvious that teenagers shouldn't be bought and sold for sex. That makes the issue a perennial winner for Republicans, who regularly put up bills to toughen penalties on sex crimes, have them shot down by Democrats, then wage media campaigns that result in headlines such as the recent "Top California Democrats Fight To Protect Purchasing Sex With Kids."

Nuance about why some Democrats keep voting down harsher penalties is easily lost and hard to explain when politicians discuss sex trafficking. And Democrats have inflicted this same wound on themselves so many times by following this Republican playbook that the blood won't wash off.

The most recent manifestation of this long-running drama has a twist  a freshman Democrat in the Assembly wrote the bill that this year turned into the Republican weapon.

Read more: Sex workers are pitted against each other in fight over California's loitering law

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Maggy Krell (D-Sacramento), a former state prosecutor specializing in human trafficking, wrote legislation a few weeks ago meant to close a loophole in a previous law that treated the crime of soliciting a minor for sex differently depending on the age of the minor.

A person attempting to purchase sex from a child 15 and under, by current law, is likely committing a felony. But someone attempting to buy sex from a 16- or 17-year-old is committing a crime that's a "wobbler," chargeable as either a felony or misdemeanor on the first offense, at the prosecutor's discretion  but requiring the minor to prove they are being trafficked for the higher offense.

As they have done in past years when Republicans floated the idea, Krell's Democratic colleagues demanded the felony part of her legislation be dropped. Krell eventually agreed, a compromise to keep other parts of the bill alive, including a provision to make it illegal to loiter with the intent to buy sex.

But then she backed Republicans when they made a fuss about it last week on the floor of the Assembly, effectively going against her own party.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chaos erupted, followed by insanity.

Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Hollister) stripped Krell's name off the bill and gave it instead to Assemblymember Nick Schultz (D-Burbank), also a former prosecutor, and Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen (D-Elk Grove). Republicans had a field day with press releases, speeches and even began running social media ads accusing Democrats of being soft on sex crimes. Bizarrely, Democrats then began running the same kind of ads against Republicans.

Then, on Tuesday, Rivas and Schultz announced a detente with Krell. Buying sex from a 16- or 17-year-old goes back into the bill as a felony  if the buyer is more than three years older than the person being trafficked, and whether or not the minor can prove they are being trafficked.

A committee heard the new bill on Wednesday, with Krell's name back on it, and it's now moving forward in the Legislature. There's both a political takeaway and a policy takeaway from all of this.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The reason some Democrats say they have blocked the automatic felony in the past is hard to follow. Basically, their argument goes, an 18-year-old could buy Taco Bell or a vape for a younger friend, and that could be considered a felony solicitation if sexual acts ensued. Frankly, I have trouble thinking prosecutors would file these charges, but you never know.

The issue that really underlies this perennial fight and which Democrats seem to have a harder time talking about is a philosophical one. Some folks on the progressive end of criminal justice reform, including some survivors of sex trafficking, believe the best way to combat the abuse is to decriminalize sex work, or even legalize it.

Decriminalization basically means not enforcing many of the laws currently on the books that lead to sex workers and buyers being arrested  like those laws regarding solicitation. It's not a push to stop arresting those who coerce or force people into trafficking situations.

Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Hollister) stripped the name of Assemblymember Maggy Krell (D-Sacramento) off a sex trafficking bill, then restored it after reaching a compromise. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press)

The idea is that many sex workers, including younger adults and those in the LGBTQ+ community, are sex workers by choice or necessity, and that saddling them with long criminal records preventing them from getting jobs or housing isn't helpful or fair, and going after buyers simply makes their work more dangerous.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Soma Snakeoil, the co-founder and executive director of the Sidewalk Project, an organization that does anti-trafficking and harm reduction work, testified at Wednesday's hearing about that concern.

"We don't want to hear about survivor safety with hyper-criminalization bills," she told lawmakers. "This is a law enforcement approach to sex trafficking and to sex work. We need a public health approach."

She added that if we don't like the "dirty, ugly truth" that some teens are forced to engage in sex work to survive, especially vulnerable groups such as foster youth, we need to do more to provide housing and options for them.

That outlook goes hand in hand with the years-long push by Democrats to address the over-incarceration of Black and brown people, which has led to the Legislature rarely adding new felonies to the penal code.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You can agree or disagree with those viewpoints, but they are worth debating. Our current political mood, with Proposition 36 (which increased some penalties for drug crimes) passed by voters and Trump in the White House, has dramatically shifted though.

Sex trafficking is at the center of that shift.

Remember when QAnon spread conspiracies about international human smuggling rings, including that online retailer Wayfair was at the heart of a scheme to sell kids through furniture listings? That kind of panic about sex trafficking has become mainstreamed on the right, though the truth is most trafficked kids are sold by someone they know  a parent, a boyfriend, maybe even by another young person being trafficked themselves.

Read more: California Democratic lawmakers strike deal on solicitation of minors legislation

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But tough on crime is back in fashion, and no politician wants to champion decriminalization. I think decriminalization has a lot of pitfalls, but if some Democrats believe it's the solution, it's a policy failure to not talk about it  and it leads voters to misunderstand their position as weak on sex offenders when it's really, as Schultz, the new author of the bill put it Wednesday, an "all-of-the-above approach" that seeks to combine penalties with greater supports to keep vulnerable young teens off the streets.

"I don't disagree with anything they've said today on investing in people on the front end," Schulz told colleagues of comments from Snakeoil and other opponents of the bill.

Krell, who has dedicated her professional life to stopping sex traffickers, strongly believes that buyers need to face more consequences, and she has a point. We can lock up as many sex traffickers as we can find, but as long as buyers feel safe, there will always be a demand. This bill, she told me, is about punishing "creeps" who prey on kids, whether a pimp is involved or not.

It was a political failure of the Democratic leadership to think Krell would be quietly rolled on this issue. Krell is the rare politician who means what she says and says what she means. It likely stung when her name was removed from the bill, but it only increased her will to fight for a change in law she believes in.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If anyone comes out of this looking good, it's Krell, who proved herself to be willing to fight even her own party leaders. With the three-year age gap compromise, though, Democrats now have a united front and can point to the bill as a success for all involved.

But don't be surprised if Republicans run the play again next year.

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.
Sen. Renee Erickson, who spoke at a Jan. 28, 2025, rally for private school vouchers, pushed a task force writing a new K-12 school funding formula to set an ambitious deadline. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)

TOPEKA  Republican Sen. Renee Erickson wants the task force crafting a new state funding formula for K-12 public schools to be far enough along to present a draft in January to the Kansas Legislature, despite concern among some members the timeline was too aggressive.

The 2026 Legislature and the states next governor must come to agreement on financing education before expiration of the existing framework on June 30, 2027.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Stakes are high given previous Kansas Supreme Court decisions that funding formulas developed by lawmakers at the Capitol violated the state Constitution. A central issue in school-finance lawsuits has been whether spending on behalf of nearly 500,000 students in prekindergarten through 12th grade was constitutionally equitable and adequate.

Erickson, who chairs the bipartisan task force of legislators and educators, said her goal was to provide peers in the Legislature a glimpse of the funding strategy so the cycle of evaluation and revision could begin well before the final deadline.

Theyre going to have to start being familiar with what we are thinking. We need something in hand to vet, Erickson said Tuesday during a task force meeting. This is probably a process that we could spend five years really trying to get it just right.

Rep. Nikki McDonald, an Olathe Democrat on the task force, said the project was monumental and potentially the most important work of legislators careers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She said issuing the report as the 2026 Legislature convened in January  18 months before the new formula had to be implemented  was awfully aggressive and potentially unreasonable.

I worry if we rush into this were going to make mistakes, McDonald said. I want to make sure our formula is constitutional. I want to make sure we dont fall back into a pattern of having lawsuits and wasting taxpayer dollars.

Task force member Frank Harwood, a deputy commissioner of the Kansas Department of Education and supervising administrator of more than $6 billion in state and federal funds devoted to Kansas schools, said delivering recommendations on a revised formula in eight months could be relatively easy or profoundly difficult.

If youre making small changes, we have plenty of time, he said. If youre starting from scratch, we probably dont have enough time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rep. Susan Estes, a Wichita Republican on a bipartisan task force drafting a new funding formula for Kansas public schools, makes a point during a meeting in which concern about the project timeline was raised and disputes on fundamental issues surfaced. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from Legislatures YouTube channel)

Reading a conflict

Rep. Kristey Williams, an Augusta Republican appointed to the task force, started a conversation about reading instruction that illustrated that reaching consensus on fundamental ideas could be challenging.

She pointed to reports showing improvements in reading among the general student population also raised scores for special-education students in Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and other states.

If we could just get our students to read, it looks like its going to impact everyone, Williams said. I just would love to see a formula that incentivizes outcomes so that were constantly moving in the right direction.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Williams referenced the 2022 Sold a Story podcast that argued educators stuck with popular early-intervention literacy strategies despite research exposing flaws in methods that ignored the potential of phonics.

McDonald, the House Democrat, reminded the task force the 2025 Legislature approved a budget bill that didnt deliver as promised an additional $10 million in funding to the Kansas Blueprint for Literacy. The literacy initiative was created last year by legislators to retool university instructional methods in reading and to retrain all elementary school teachers in the science of reading by 2030.

The blueprints goal was to have 90% of 3rd through 8th graders achieving at Level 2 on the states four-level assessment scale. An additional target was to have 50% of 3rd through 8th grade students reading at Level 3 or Level 4 on the assessment by 2033.

A budget is a reflection of our priorities, McDonald said. We have missed that opportunity to amp up the number of teachers who are trained in the science of reading so we can close that gap.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dont blame Legislature

Erickson, the task force chair, said it would be inaccurate to blame politicians for shortcomings in reading skills that were the responsibility of educators or parents.

Im going to be very adamant about that, the former teacher said. By no means am I going to allow the Legislature to be the convenient villain in this reading scenario. It just defies logic.

Task force member Scott Hill, an Abilene Republican in the Kansas House, said it was shocking the states school districts didnt take prompt action to improve reading instruction when it was clear students were struggling statewide.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I find it bordering on immoral that people would understand, which we all do, that weve been teaching kids wrong for a long time. And, to not change that teaching direction on their own without supplemental money is abhorrent, he said.

The state Department of Education has been using federal funding to train teachers working in state-accredited public and private elementary schools in the Kansas Science of Reading Professional Learning Course. The literacy initiative  separate from the Kansas Blueprint for Literacy  was a response to disruption in student learning tied to remote instruction during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Harwood, the deputy commissioner with the Department of Education, urged the task force to appreciate the full historical context of reading theory in Kansas and to accept it was difficult to come up with a one-size-fits-all program for students of different abilities.

He said the whole language method pilloried by some task force members was useful to many students.

The problem wasnt that whole language was not successful. It just wasnt successful with everybody and it left people behind. Now we know better, he said.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) flights J2-181 ("Domodedovo" airport) and J2-807 ("Vnukovo" airport) scheduled from Baku to Moscow, Russia, are delayed due to the closure of airspace at the destination, a source in AZAL told Trend.

Passengers of the delayed flights are provided with all necessary means following the airline's regulations.

At the same time, AZAL's flight J2-059 scheduled from Baku to Mumbai, India, has been postponed due to the closure of airspace over Pakistan.

AZAL continues to closely monitor the situation, guided by flight safety, and will inform passengers about any updates.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
A change made to the Utah newborn safe haven law went into effect Wednesday, allowing more parents a way to safely give up custody of their baby, no questions asked.

The original law, passed in 2001 by former Sen. Patrice Arent, limited the age of newborns that can be surrendered under the law to 30 days or younger.

This year, the state Legislature passed SB57, that changes the age of newborns that can be surrendered under the law to 90 days (three months) and younger.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The law exists to protect infants, help birth parents, and to find loving homes for the newborns. By expanding the age to 90 days old or younger, more babies in Utah will have the chance to live safe and happy lives, said Arent who now serves as the chair of the Newborn Safe Haven advisory board.

Under the law, parents or a parents designee can give up custody of their newborn at any hospital in the state.

The baby will receive the care they need in a forever home. No names, blame, or shame  only love and support," according to a release from the Utah Department of Health and Human Services.

Since the safe haven law passed in 2001, an average of at least two babies have been surrendered every year in the Beehive State.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The intent of that bill was to help protect newborns from injury or death by providing a safe place (hospitals) for them and allow the identity of the person who gives up the baby to remain anonymous, the release said.

The expansion of the age to 3 months and younger will allow more babies to safely be surrendered and will help increase awareness of the law and that option for parents.

After the newborn is surrendered to a hospital, they are examined by medical professionals and then placed for adoption through the Division of Child and Family Services.

For more information about the safe haven law, visit utahsafehaven.org
CUMBERLAND  City officials Tuesday amended a housing development agreement with TeaBow Residential.

TeaBow has requested that changes be made, according to documents that pertain to the amendments.

Under the initial deal made last year the developer would build houses on some vacant city lots that cost $1 each.

The agreement included nearly a dozen city-owned properties on Arch, Lee, Elder and Knox streets, and Maryland and Pennsylvania avenues.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Allegany County Board of Commissioners last year approved $345,000 for the Infill Development Incentive Program in collaboration with the city of Cumberland.

In April 2024, Cumberlands mayor and City Council approved the Infill agreement with TeaBow that stipulated the company had two years to build residential homes on the lots.

Documents related to the amendments approved by council Tuesday state the city will not issue new building permits for any of the properties until TeaBow completes construction at 301, 303, 305, 307 and 309 Arch St. and secures an occupancy permit for the structures by June 1.

Additionally, TeaBow must complete construction at 321, 323 and 325 Pennsylvania Ave. and secure occupancy permits by April 30, 2026.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

TeaBow must obtain the required number of off-street parking spaces required by the city code before an occupancy permit will be issued, the documents state.

Development of 252 E. Elder St. was amended to include an assisted living facility.

It must be under roof, connected to public utilities, and all HVAC units and equipment must be installed by April 30, 2026, the documents state.

In other city business, Cumberland will host a spring cleanup day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

Neighborhood Dumpster collection sites will be at Braddock Middle School, Constitution Parks Long Field, and the parking lot at Tilghman and School streets.

Restricted items include tires, batteries, paint, appliances and hazardous materials.

To learn more, call 301-722-2000, ext. 5600, or 301-759-6620.
CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP)  Charges against a man from South Hadley have been dropped in connection with a deadly hit-and-run crash in Chicopee.

The crash happened back in February, when a woman was walking on Abbey Memorial Drive when she was struck and killed. The woman, 34-year-old Vanessa Perez of Springfield, died due to her injuries. Police say two separate cars were involved in the crash that killed her, one plow truck and the other a Sedan.

Jerimeldo Lopez of South Hadley, who was driving a plow truck, was charged with two felonies, leaving the scene of personal injury and death, and negligent operation of a motor vehicle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Woman struck and killed by vehicle in Chicopee identified

During the arraignment on April 9th, the defense attorney for Lopez said, Through the investigation, it was revealed that earlier on, a little further up the road, Ms. Perez had been struck by a Ford F550 with essentially a V shaped plow. Police were able to learn that through the city surveillance system. There is surveillance video of the vehicle striking Ms. Perez as she crossed Abbey Memorial Drive along Broadway.

He continued, This is a case where this incident could only have happened if everything went wrong. He has a green light, its nighttime, she is wearing dark clothing, and she is in the middle of the road. I dont use that phrase coldly, I mean literally, the middle of the road. She is in the middle of the road, she is listening to music, she has her headphones in, that is why she doesnt hear him. He is listening to music, which he why he doesnt hear anything.

The judge ordered a $10,000 cash bail and ordered to not operate a vehicle. However, Hampden District Attorneys Office Spokesperson Payton North told 22News a decision was made by a grand jury not to indict Lopez.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We are disappointed by the Grand Jurys decision, but we remain dedicated to seeking justice and will explore all available options to re-present the case moving forward, said North in a statement.

The other driver charged in connection with this case, Lavonta Williams Jr. of Chicopee, who was allegedly the driver of the Sedan, was charged with leaving the scene of personal injury and death. The judge set Williams bail at $2,500, which his attorney said he was able to post.

He tried to do what was right that night, he stopped his car. We had to tell the commonwealth that he called 911, which they verified. He was flagging down people, we think thats why the witness was even able to be there to try to help this person who was lying in the road, which he thought was deceased. There are significant evidential issues that we are dealing with in the case, said Joseph Pacella, Williams attorney.

The case against Williams Jr. is still pending.

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.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
SULLIVANS ISLAND, S.C. (WCBD)  After an hours-long manhunt for the suspect accused of striking three people with a car on Sullivans Island last Thursday, the team inside the Charleston County Sheriffs Offices Air 1 helicopter is sharing how they were able to bring that search to an end.

Charleston County Sheriffs Office started using the Air 1 in January, a new state-of-the-art helicopter, that helped track down Justin Collin Adams.

According to authorities, Justin Collin Adams intentionally hit three people  including two children  with his car and fled the scene at Sunrise Presbyterian Church. An hours-long manhunt ensued, with over 22 agencies looking for Adams on Sullivans Island. Charleston County brought their Air 1 helicopter to the scene where they were able to track down Adams hiding in a boat docked at a home near the church in 15 minutes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I got a ripped cover, why dont we check inside there, and we noticed there was red fabric visible underneath the ripped area. As soon as we got the sensors onto that and were able to pick out, thats not just fabric thats an elbow as well, started coordinating the nearest ground units to come rendezvous to take custody as the suspect, said Lt. Alex Fulford, one of the helicopter pilots.

The camera used on the Air 1 to find Adams was developed in New Zealand by the same people who developed the camera for the Lord of the Rings series. Authorities say it is only the second helicopter to have this type of camera and only law enforcement helicopter with it.

Sheriff Carl Ritchie says this new technology will be available to assist across the Lowcountry.

Charleston County Sheriffs Office, were fortunate enough to have these types of assets that are available to all of our agencies in the Lowcountry and the tri-county area; when someone needs assistance, were there, said Sheriff Ritchie.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lt. Alex Fulford and Lt. Shawn James of Charleston County flew the helicopter while Sgt. Elias Shafer from Sullivans Island kept watch, ultimately bringing Adams to justice.

The first thing is relief when you capture someone as dangerous as this guy was and then the next thing that goes through your mind is safety. How do you take him into custody and make sure no one is injured, and then after that is elation. How can you not be excited about finding this guy and capturing him before something else may have happened, said Lt. Shawn James, a helicopter pilot.

Charleston County Officials say additional charges may be served to Adams. He has already been charged with three counts of attempted murder and one count of first-degree assault and battery.

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 WCBD News 2.
Charlotte City Council member Victoria Watlington alleged corruption within city government in an email to supporters Tuesday night amid reports of a settlement with the citys police chief.

The email, sent from her campaign account, begins with the words Power Corrupts and says shes extremely concerned with the level of unethical, immoral, and frankly, illegal activities occurring within City government. The email also contains a contribute to the cause link that typically appears on top of Watlingtons campaign messages and directs to an ActBlue donation page for her council campaign.

I have seen enough. Over the last five and a half years, I have witnessed the brazen disregard for dissenting opinions and the rule of law. Never, however, have I seen such an egregious example as what has occurred in the last week, the email continues. It is time for a change.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The email did not specify what Watlington was referring to.

But it was sent the same day WSOC and WFAE reported the City Council agreed in closed session to a settlement with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Johnny Jennings to prevent a potential lawsuit over now former-Council member Tariq Bokharis push to get new bulletproof vests for police officers.

Watlington told The Charlotte Observer she couldnt discuss events in closed session but was speaking about the culture of the organization and how work is done.

The at-large Democrat, whos been in office since 2019, said shes concerned about the use of disclosure, or lack of disclosure, to drive particular outcomes and said internal politics has spilled over into policy work.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That is not a new phenomenon, she said. This experience over the last week, however, has I think created a need to really sit down and look at how were operating and just really reevaluate fundamental baseline respect for our rules, for our roles and each other.

Reported settlement with CMPD chief

WSOC, The Charlotte Observers news partner, reported council members voted during a closed session April 28 on a potential settlement but failed to meet the threshold for approval with multiple members absent from the meeting. During another closed session Monday, the previous vote was deemed to meet the six-member threshold under council rules because of a council member who left the meeting without being formally excused, according to WSOC.

The potential lawsuit reportedly stemmed from friction between Bokhari and Jennings over outer-carrier vests for police, including heated text messages previously reported by WFAE.

In a statement posted to social media Tuesday night, The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Fraternal Order of Police said Charlotteans should be outraged over the reported settlement. The organization supported Bokhari in his push to get outer carrier vests for officers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While the city is negotiating paying out over hurt feelings, many Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police officers who are physically suffering feel the city pays no attention to them, the FOPs statement said.

Charlotte NAACP President Corine Mack confirmed to the Observer she filed an ethics complaint against Bokhari in January over the issue, claiming he and the FOP began a crusade against Jennings. WSOC reported two top Jennings aides advised her on her complaint, which Mack said was dismissed by interim City Attorney Anthony Fox for insufficient evidence.

Multiple City Council members declined to speak with an Observer reporter about a settlement deal. Bokhari, who now works for the Federal Transit Administration, also declined to comment.

Watlington: Council members need need equal access to information

Watlington told the Observer the situation on City Council has come to a point where weve got to do something about how we operate, how we work, so that there is clarity and that there is optimal performance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Council members need equal access to information, consistency in how meetings are facilitated and to follow local and state rules, procedures and statutes, Watlington said.

If everyone is operating under the same rules, and if everybody has respect enough for each other to have those conversations which require disclosure even if you think somebodys not going to agree, then we get to better policy for the people, she said.

Watlington believes shes certainly not the only one with similar concerns.

Unfortunately, Im the only one who chooses to speak on something and just say what it is, because people have varying degrees of appetite to have a discussion, or maybe just have different viewpoints about the severity of things, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mayor Vi Lyles said allegations of corruption are wrong when asked about Watlingtons email during an appearance Wednesday morning on WFAEs Charlotte Talks.

I dont know what shes talking about, but everybody on the council has an opinion, and so well probably learn a little bit more, she said.

Lyles said city leaders follow the law and the processes that we adopt as policy makers.

Charlotte City Councilman Malcolm Graham said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, that Watlingtons statement was not based in reality, political rhetoric at best.

Fellow Council member Marjorie Molina wrote in a thread on X Wednesday morning shes not ignoring the news.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ive read it all and Im aware. Its tough when private conversations become public controversy, Molina wrote. Ive stayed quiet (because) I respect the seriousness of what was discussed and the responsibility that comes with it. I believe in accountability  but also in process, in trust, and in making space for the full story before rushing to conclusions.

First elected in 2019 to represent District 3, Watlington is now an at-large council member and unsuccessfully sought mayor pro tem in 2023. She leads the citys Housing, Safety and Community Committee and was the top vote-getter among council candidates in the last municipal election.
As the U.S. Supreme Court justices consider the constitutionality of religious charters, could a favorable ruling reshape the charter landscape  or undermine their foundational principles?

Join The 74 and the Progressive Policy Institute at 2 p.m. ET Thursday for a special conversation about the pivotal case.

PPIs Curtis Valentine will lead a conversation with Richard Kahlenberg, Jason Zwara of the National Association of Charter School Authorizers and Eric Paisner of the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools about the potential implications of the decision for charter school governance, state funding, church-state separation and educational equity.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sign up for the Zoom right here or tune in to this page Wednesday at 2 p.m. ET to stream the event.

Recent school choice coverage from The 74:
Daniel de la Hoz

Stay up-to-date with the politics team. Sign up for the Teen Vogue Take

We know that young people are concerned about sustainability and the environment  perhaps especially so under President Trump. Since taking office in January, his administration's assault on the countrys climate ambitions, a recent New York Times op-ed argues, is not just enraging but also perversely awe inspiring. It makes sense that people  as they watch the government undermine environmental policy  are trying to figure out what they can do as individuals.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Teen Vogue recently observed that more readers are coming to our site via ChatGPT, specifically through searches for actions you can take on sustainability. Its no wonder, when were seeing a growing reliance on AI chatbots for everything from drafting texts to therapy  and with sometimes scary results. (Nonetheless, Metas Mark Zuckerberg recently suggested that AI chatbots could take the place of IRL friends.)

Those searching for how to live sustainably might not realize that using ChatGPT itself has consequences for the environment. Most people are not aware of the resource usage underlying ChatGPT, Shaolei Ren, an associate professor at the University of California, Riverside, who studies AIs impact on climate, told the Associated Press in 2023. If youre not aware of the resource usage, then theres no way that we can help conserve the resources.

So were here to help break it down: ChatGPT is a large language model, or LLM, which is an AI-based machine-learning model that is trained on large amounts of data, enabling it to create writing that might look, in theory, as though a human made it. Training LLMs like ChatGPT require a huge amount of computing power, as well as for generating answers. The servers that provide this power need to be kept cool, which often requires significant amounts of water.

Then there are the energy needs. Substantial quantities of electricity are often required to train, fine-tune, and run LLMs, creating carbon emissions and potential energy strain, according to MIT News. Estimates vary on the amount of resources a ChatGPT search requires compared with a typical Google search (sans AI overviews), but a 2024 report from the International Energy Agency placed the chatbot's energy usage for a single query at nearly 10 times that of the search engine.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Amid the demand for expanding AI usage, companies like Google and Meta are rushing to expand their energy capacity, particularly by investing in nuclear energy, which doesnt emit greenhouse gases but, critics say, comes with its own set of potential problems for people and the environment. Microsoft is looking to resurrect a closed-down nuclear plant as one way to power its AI offerings.

A 2024 analysis of the energy output of using ChatGPT by the Washington Post and researchers at UC Riverside found that just one 100-word email drafted by ChatGPT-4 uses about a water bottles worth of H2O, and enough electricity to power 14 LED lightbulbs for an hour. (If you want to see some visualizations of the resources used by AI to help make one example feel more tangible, the estimations in that WaPo piece are a great place to start.) According to the Post, data centers are also sapping the US power grid, which has historically been under-invested in and under-resourced.

An engineer described AI, and the data centers it necessitates, to Bloomberg as a big hammer on the US energy grid: Take your house and increase that by 10,000. That is the difference between your house and a data center.

On top of that, currently, these centers often rely on emissions-heavy forms of energy production, like coal. This has resulted in prolonging the existence of coal-based power plants in places like North Omaha, Nebraska. The low-income, largely minority neighborhood has some of the regions worst air pollution and high rates of asthma, according to the Washington Post. A local power company was set to stop burning coal at a 1950s-era power plant in 2023; as of last fall, despite community concerns, the plant planned to keep burning coal until at least 2026, supplying power to data centers owned by Google and Meta.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Weve seen what happens when power grids in places like Puerto Rico and Texas are unable to withstand the sort of extreme weather worsened by climate change. Critics argue that directing energy toward AI not only reappropriates resources that could otherwise be used to provide for peoples basic needs, it also contributes to the worsening climate conditions that help make those grids so vulnerable. As over a billion people across the world live with high water vulnerability, Microsoft and Google have both reported drastically increased water consumption and greenhouse gas emissions over the last few years.

There are tangible and measurable harms attached to data center expansion and the use of resources for powerful AI, Tamara Kneese, the director of Data & Societys Climate, Technology, and Justice program, tells Teen Vogue via email. Data & Society is a nonprofit research organization that studies the social implications of data, automation, and AI, per its website.

Places with high concentrations of data centers  which are often clustered in areas where marginalized people who have historically experienced environmental racism live  are dealing with pollution and subsequent public health issues, increased utilities costs for ratepayers, and lost access to energy, water, and land, Kneese continues. Transmission lines go through public parks and agricultural land. The communities around data centers and related energy infrastructures are being sacrificed for a speculative future AI, and in many cases communities are actually paying for data centers through subsidies granted to companies."

Says Kneese, We are told repeatedly that AI will eventually help us solve social issues, including climate change, even while AI infrastructures are right now burdening communities and undermining climate goals.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These companies certainly seem to be aware of the consequences of pursuing more and more energy- and resource-consuming AI. Environmental reports for 2024 from Google and Microsoft detail ambitious sustainability goals that include reducing emissions and water usage, while making clear they know they havent been meeting their targets. (Google, Open AI, and Microsoft have each responded to the arguments in this op-ed; you can find their responses at the bottom.)

In addition, following the January premiere of the latest version of China-based AI company DeepSeeks LLM, which uses fewer resources to create what a number of experts say are better search outcomes, theres evidence that it doesnt have to be like this.

Wait a minute, Karen Hao, a contributor at The Atlantic who covers AIs impact on society, wrote on Bluesky in a series of posts analyzing the news. You mean to say that we dont need to blanket the earth with data centers and coal & gas plants to maybe arrive at a future where we can wave a magical [artificial general intelligence] wand to make all of the consequences of that go away? Yes. This is a false trade off. Let that sink in.

We get the appeal of a quick ChatGPT search, especially as it becomes more commonplace in our schools. A Pew Research Center survey last fall found that the percentage of teens ages 13-17 using ChatGPT for schoolwork had doubled since 2023. There are school districts and departments of education that are incorporating it into their classrooms too. This year in New Jersey, for example, 10 school districts were each awarded about $75,000 in grant money to help pay for programs focused on both teaching with AI and teaching about AI, including AI literacy and ethics, according to Government Technology.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We are told repeatedly that AI will eventually help us solve social issues, including climate change, even while AI infrastructures are right now burdening communities and undermining climate goals.

Sociologist, professor, and cultural critic Tressie McMillan Cottom, in a recent column for the New York Times, observed that many academics, initially concerned by the onset of AI  how it could enable cheating, for instance  are now treating AI as something they must accept.

McMillan Cottom categorizes artificial intelligence as mid tech  hardly the technological revolution worth the amount of waste and environmental damage its meting out: [Most] of us are using [AI] for far more mundane purposes. AI spits out meal plans with the right amount of macros, tells us when our calendars are overscheduled, and helps write emails that no one wants. Thats a mid revolution of mid tasks.

And thats without even mentioning that the LLMs themselves are imperfect and often provide false or inaccurate information. Sometimes these imperfections result in missing fingers in images of AI-generated people. Other times the consequences are far more grave: civilians killed and others wrongfully detained by Israels military due to AI-based information, according to the New York Times; reported plans to target students over AI-based analysis of their social media; reports of Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency attempting to incorporate AI into its government takeover.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

McMillan Cottom argues that AI is in some ways perfect for the post-fact era. I agree. It parasitically harvests information, removing it from its context, lacking the ability to analyze it with the same level of nuance that a person might. The Trump administration is bearing down even further on education, and all the while (and as a consequence) were exposed to, as McMillan Cottom says, less research and more predicting what we want to hear. Theres real value in simply doing the reading yourself and showing your work, like your math teacher likely told you.

One small thing you can do if you want to reduce your AI usage: If youre using Google, adding -AI to the end of all your search queries will remove the automated AI summary that the company has added to search outputs. If youd rather avoid the tech behemoths entirely, you can switch to another search engine, like DuckDuckGo.

We know that tech corporations, fossil fuel companies, and governments bear the most responsibility for the accelerating climate crisis  not individuals. But you can choose to opt out of the AI hype.

Editors note: In August 2024, Conde Nast, Teen Vogues parent company, announced a multi-year partnership with OpenAI to expand the reach of Conde Nasts content.

In response to requests for comment, the following companies shared:

Google: AI has the potential to help mitigate 510% of global greenhouse gas emissions by 2030  for example, Google is using AI to reduce emissions by suggesting fuel-efficient routes on Maps and helping airplanes avoid contrails. To help minimize our environmental impact, we build efficient AI infrastructure and work hard to reduce and measure its water and carbon footprint.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Open AI: Alongside others within the industry, we continue working hard to find new ways to ensure our technology is as efficient as possible, including when it comes to energy and water consumption. Even as we continue to see significant efficiency gains, promising research and innovation in this evolving space, we believe that being thoughtful about the best use of computing power remains critically important.

Microsoft: Microsoft announced in 2020 that we are working toward become [sic] carbon negative, water positive, and zero waste by 2030, and remain focused on these goals. Several actions we are taking are outlined in our Accelerating Sustainability with AI playbook.

Originally Appeared on Teen Vogue

Want more Teen Vogue climate coverage?
Ramzan Kadyrov said he's asked Putin to be allowed to step aside as Chechen leader.

Kadyrov has previously hinted at the move, citing his long rule.

Possible successors include Muslim Khuchiev and Apti Alaudinov, a general active in Ukraine.

Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov said he has appealed to Russian President Vladimir Putin to be allowed to step down from his position as leader of the Chechen Republic.

"I am asking to be dismissed from my post," Kadyrov told state-controlled Chechnya Today on Monday, per The Kyiv Independent's translation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I hope that my request will be supported," he added.

Kadyrov followed up his remarks on Tuesday with a post on Telegram saying that the decision on whether he would step down is Putin's, not his, and framing himself as a loyalist who responds only to the president's command.

Kadyrov has nurtured a reputation as a strongman since taking power in 2007, heading up a militia known as the Kadyrovites, who have been deployed to Ukraine and in the defence of the Russian region of Kursk.

He secured a fourth term as Chechnya's president in 2021, taking 99.73% of the vote in a bid that was all but guaranteed by Putin's endorsement, Human Rights Watch said at the time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kadyrov took over the presidency from his father, who was assassinated in 2004, and last month named his 17-year-old son Adam as state head of internal affairs, overseeing the republic's police and internal security.

Kadyrov said the decision on whether he steps down rests with Putin. Sputnik/Mikhail Metzel/Pool via Reuters

Kadyrov has floated the idea of stepping down in the past. In 2022, he posted on Telegram saying he had been in office too long and deserved a vacation. He made similar remarks as his second term approached its end in 2016, Russian media reported.

The latest move comes amid reports of ongoing ill-health that Kadyrov has denied several times, and that stand in contrast to his image as a strongman and fighter.

According to independent investigative outlet Novaya Gazeta Europa, Kadyrov was diagnosed with pancreatic necrosis in 2019, which was then complicated by a bout of COVID-19.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Should Putin give Kadyrov the nod to step down, possible successors include Muslim Khuchiev, the republic's former prime minister, and high-ranking general Apti Alaudinov, who has been on active duty in Ukraine.

Kadyrov maintains an iron grip on power in Chechnya in an arrangement widely understood to have been secured by promising Putin to keep it within the Russian Federation and to suppress a separatist movement.

The Chechen Ministry of Internal Affairs did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Concerned about chemtrails? Soon, you'll have a way to report the white streaks in the sky to Florida authorities.

Gov. Ron DeSantis signalled that he will sign a new bill passed by the Florida Legislature banning "geoengineering and weather modification activities" such as cloud seeding in the Sunshine State.

"Florida is not a testing ground for geoengineering," DeSantis posted on X. "We already do not permit this type of activity, but we are going the next step to ensure it does not happen in this state.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"As soon as it reaches my desk, I will be signing the recently passed Senate Bill 56 to prohibit the release of chemicals into our skies to alter the weather or atmosphere. The Free State of Florida means freedom from governments or private actors unilaterally applying chemicals or geoengineering to people or public spaces."

The bill also requires the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to create an email and online form for any residents with concerns or to report sightings.

According to an analysis of the bill, no one has applied for weather modification licenses in the state for 10 years.

SB 56 bans chemtrails without saying 'chemtrails'

The word "chemtrails"  the focus of a long-running conspiracy theory that nefarious people or government agencies are spreading toxic chemicals on an unsuspecting populace through the white trails in the sky left by airplanes  appears nowhere in the bill, but it did come up in multiple discussions of the bill and in social media posts shared by the bill's sponsor, Miami state Sen. Ileana Garcia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tennessee passed a similar law last year, with several legislators referring to fears from the chemtrails conspiracy.

The federal government has been accused of using chemtrails for human population control, weapons testing, mind control, and more. Multiple agencies have stated that the government does not modify the weather and that solar geoengineering is "nonexistent."

What are chemtrails?

"Chemtrails," as described by a Harvard University report, is a conspiracy theory buzzword that refers to types of contrails, the line-shaped clouds or "condensation trails" visible behind aircraft engines under certain atmospheric conditions.

Contrails are composed when hot, humid air from the engines condenses into ice crystals in the cold air, the National Weather Service says. While they often fade quickly, especially in dry weather, their appearance and durability can change depending on the conditions the plane flew through, including altitude, temperature, humidity, sunlight, wind speed, etc.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sometimes, in saturated, high-humidity conditions, some contrails may persist for hours and spread out into cirrus clouds, or last long enough for multiple airplane paths to create a crisscross effect.

This normal event has been singled out by conspiracy theorists as evidence that the government, the military, or climate scientists are deliberately pumping chemicals into the atmosphere for various schemes, up to and including creating hurricanes on command.

In 2024, when Hurricane Milton became the second major hurricane to make landfall in two weeks, conspiracy theorists claimed the Biden administration was controlling the weather to affect the election. Georgia GOP Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene helped spread the rumor in an X post that has been seen 44 million times.

Yes they can control the weather.



Its ridiculous for anyone to lie and say it cant be done.  Marjorie Taylor Greene  (@mtgreenee) October 4, 2024

"Yes they can control the weather," she said. "Its ridiculous for anyone to lie and say it cant be done." She posted a follow-up asking if Americans agreed to their weather being modified.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Greene was ridiculed but Rolling Stone reported that meteorologists were getting death threats. The spread of misinformation became so prevalent that both NOAA and FEMA were forced to create fact-checking webpages.

"No one creates or steers hurricanes," NOAA said, "the technology does not exist."

Twenty-five years ago, the EPA, the Federal Aviation Administration, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued a report debunking the chemtrails theory. Other agencies, such as the U.S. Air Force, issued their own fact sheets explaining what contrails were.

Conspiracy theorists have pointed to such reports as more evidence of massive collusion in the scheme.

What is solar geoengineering?

Geoengineering, also called climate engineering or climate intervention, refers to deliberate large-scale interventions intended to counteract human-caused climate change through carbon dioxide removal or by deflecting some portion of the sun's rays away from Earth.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A NOAA report from last year lists several proposed Solar Radiation Modification (SRM) methods for reducing the amount of solar radiation, including firing small reflective aerosols into the air to increase the reflectivity of the stratosphere or low-lying clouds, thinning cirrus clouds, or even putting large mirrors in space. However, none have progressed past the research stage as scientists study the potential risks and negative consequences.

Where did the chemtrails conspiracy come from?

In 1996, the U.S. Air Force published a report about proposed weather modification in the future. The report itself says it contains "fictional representations of future situations/scenarios," but it triggered concerns about shadowy evil plans. The USAF later clarified that the paper was created in response to a military directive asking for future scenarios and did not reflect any plans, present or future, to modify the weather.

Since then, any reports of proposed geoengineering projects, rocket engine tests, widespread sickness, or just suspicious cloud formations bring out more accusations of chemtrails and governmental conspiracy.

What does SB 36 do?

SB 36, Weather Modification Activities, repeals nearly a dozen provisions in Florida statutes that allow state-licensed weather modification such as cloud-seeding to cause rain, block any future innovations, and prohibit the injection, release or dispersion of any substance or apparatus into the atmosphere within Floridas borders for the express purpose of affecting the temperature, the weather, or the intensity of sunlight.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It also:

Changes the second-degree misdemeanor for anyone attempting weather modification without a state license to a third-degree felony for any public or private corporation attempting it at all, and adds a fine up to $100,000 per violation

Makes it a third-degree felony for any aircraft operator or controller involved with a fine up to $5,000 and up to 5 years in prison

Bans all study, research or experimentation in the field of weather modification

Requires the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to set up an email address and online form for Florida residents to report "observed violations"

Authorizes the DEP to investigate reports of violations and refer them to the Department of Health or the Division of Emergency Management

Requires all operators of publicly owned airports to report monthly to the Department of Transportation (DOT) the presence of any aircraft equipped with any part, component, or device that could be used for these purposes

Can humans manipulate the weather?

Fact check: Debunking weather modification claims.

No one creates or steers hurricanes; the technology does not existhttps://t.co/6DyfKpJgAw  Meteorologist Grant Gilmore (@GrantGilmoreWX) October 23, 2024

On a small scale, yes.

The idea of cloud seeding, where substances such as silver iodide or dry ice are released into the atmosphere to increase rain or snow, mitigate hail or disperse fog, has been around since 1891 and was first put into practice in 1946. But nothing on a large scale has been found to work.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"No technology exists that can create, destroy, modify, strengthen or steer hurricanes in any way, shape or form," NOAA said.

There was an attempt, starting in the 1960s, by the U.S. military to modify hurricanes in the Atlantic basin, called Project STORMFURY. The project was unsuccessful and was discontinued, NOAA said.

In February, researchers proposed dehydrating the atmosphere by seeding the upper atmosphere with small particles known as ice nuclei to slow climate change. But other scientists have been skeptical, and one of the researchers admitted, "We don't have a plan or the technology to do this."

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Chemtrails in sky reports: Florida bans 'weather modification'
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. The Media Development Agency and the ADA University Continuing Education Program jointly organized a seminar for communication officials from various state agencies and organizations of Uzbekistan on May 7, the agency told Trend.

The seminar, titled "Forming Narratives: Effectiveness in Strategic Communication and Public Relations," was held to provide valuable insights on modern communication practices.

The seminar was led by Shafag Mehraliyeva, a faculty member of ADA Universitys Communication and Digital Media program and a member of the MEDIA Supervisory Board. During the session, participants were informed about international approaches to shaping public narratives, managing public relations, and delivering strategic messages to target audiences in todays communication landscape.

The seminar highlighted that, in the era of digital transformation, the development of well-defined communication strategies, proper content policies, and the application of a unified institutional approach are essential to improving the effectiveness of government agencies.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP)  A Chicopee man was arrested after drugs were found during a traffic stop for an expired registration on Tuesday.

Suspected drug dealer arrested in area of Cabot Street in Holyoke

The Chicopee Police Department states that on Tuesday at approximately 7:58 p.m., an officer observed a motor vehicle with an expired registration while monitoring traffic at the intersection of Chicopee Street and Meadow Street. As the officer was approaching to perform a traffic stop on the vehicle, he noticed the driver leaning over to the passenger side and appeared to push something under the seat.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Once another officer arrived, the driver was asked to step out of the vehicle to be checked for weapons. The vehicle was confirmed to be unregistered, and the driver was identified as 47-year-old Antonio Colon Ortiz of Chicopee.

A glass pipe with a burn end, commonly used for smoking crack cocaine, was found during a check of the drivers seat. Ortiz was placed under arrest. Officers then located three plastic bags with a white rock substance that was believed to be cocaine, several digital scales with white residue on them, cash, and 19 wax envelopes with a stamp on the outside, commonly used for packaging heroin. All of these items were hidden in different compartments throughout Ortizs vehicle.

Chicopee Police Department

Antonio Colon Ortiz was arrested and charged with the following:

Possess to Distribute Class B Drug

Uninsured Motor Vehicle

Unregistered Motor Vehicle

Possess to Distribute Class A Drug

Trafficking in 36 Grams or More Cocaine

Possess Class B Drug

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.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  San Francisco Chief Bill Scott will be leaving the police department to accept a role in another jurisdiction, San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie announced on Wednesday. Scott served as chief for more than eight years.

Michelin-star restaurant blames San Francisco economy for closure

Serving as the chief of police for this great city for the past eight years has been one of the greatest honors of my life, Chief Scott said. We accomplished what we set out to do and made the department better and helped this great city to become safer in the process.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It didnt take long for Scott to find a new gig. He was named the new head of the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authoritys public safety department, KRON4 has confirmed.

LACMTA is a similar public transit agency to what BART is in the Bay Area.

San Francisco police chief Bill Scott looks on during a news conference at the San Francisco Police Academy on May 15, 2018 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Tributes from other local officials began pouring in shortly after it was announced Scott would be leaving SFPD.

It was among the great honors of my career to serve in SFPD under SFPD Chief Bill Scotts leadership  through Covid, George Floyd, the recall of a sitting D.A., and an unprecedented staffing crisis  and watch it emerge as a national model for 21st century police reform, tweeted SF Supervisor Matt Dorsey.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Heartfelt congratulations to longstanding San Francisco Police Chief William Scott who has served our city with humility, fairness, and dedication since he first arrived more than eight years ago, wrote San Francisco Sheriff Paul Miyamoto. Chief Scott has been an unwavering champion of social reform and change in law enforcement, even amongst dissenting voices, blazing a trail many would not have dared to take.

San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins called Scotts departure an overwhelming loss to our city.

He is the consummate professional who for eight years tirelessly devoted his life and career to delivering public safety to San Francisco and promoting responsible reform within the San Francisco Police Department, Jenkins said. We have worked together closely for the last three years in the trenches, doing everything we can to turn this city around.

I want to congratulate Chief Scott on his retirement, and thank him for his extraordinary service. Under his leadership, crime in San Francisco dropped to historic lows, said former SF Mayor London Breed. He was tasked with implementing a variety of reforms we pursued  both to reduce crime and increase police accountability  and our success speaks for itself.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mayor Lurie will choose Scotts successor from a list of candidates that will be put together by the San Francisco Police Commission.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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.
Andrii Yermak, Head of the Ukrainian President's Office, has said that Ukraine is ready for peace negotiations, but only after a complete ceasefire. He added that some issues would have to be discussed with Russia.

Source: Yermak in an interview with German newspaper Die Zeit, quoted on his Telegram

Quote: "I said that we want peace, but its achievement does not depend solely on us. If everything depended on Ukraine, this war would have ended long ago. But the reality is that Russia shows no genuine desire to stop its aggression. Over 50 days ago, President Trump proposed a complete 30-day ceasefire  we agreed. Russia responded with a three-day Victory Day truce.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We are ready for negotiations. But only after a full ceasefire. This is the position of Ukraine, the United States and our European partners. We do not trade our independence. Our red lines are the Constitution, international law and the UN Charter. We will never recognise the occupation of our territories. However, we are realists: we understand that some issues will have to be discussed at the negotiating table. We are ready for this  if Russia comes to the table as well."

Details: Yermak stressed that Ukraine had proven itself a responsible and constructive partner. In particular, it has signed a historic agreement with the United States, which Yermak called "the foundation of future security through the economy".

"Ukraine continues to fight. Because we have no other country. And we have the strength to win not only the war  but also the peace," he added.

Background: US Vice President JD Vance said that the US would like the Russians and Ukrainians to agree on some basic principles in order to start negotiations.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
China has agreed to the first major talks with the US since Donald Trump imposed sweeping tariffs and launched a global trade war.

Scott Bessent, the US treasury secretary, and Jamieson Greer, the US trade representative, will meet with their counterparts in Geneva this weekend.

It is a move Mr Bessent has described as a de-escalation amid growing market worry over the impact of the tariffs on the world economy, and working Americans.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Asked by the House Financial Services Committee whether trade negotiations with China were advanced, Mr Bessent said: On Saturday we will begin, which I believe is the opposite of advanced.

He added Pete Navarro, the White House trade adviser behind Mr Trumps tariffs, would not be present for the negotiations.

Pressed for details on other trade deals, the treasury secretary said revealing such information would be detrimental to the US but claimed some of them are quite advanced.

He added that it was time for China to graduate from developing country status in the eyes of international financial institutions including the IMF and World Bank.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No country has been hit harder by Mr Trumps trade war than China, the worlds biggest exporter and second largest economy.

When Mr Trump announced his liberation day tariffs on April 2, China retaliated with tariffs of its own, a move that Mr Trump called disrespectful.

The tit-for-tat tariffs have been mounting since then, with the US levies against China now at 145 per cent and China tariffs on the US at 125 per cent.

On Wednesday, JD Vance, the vice-president, suggested the Chinese population would have to consume rising costs in order to rebalance global trade.

We cannot absorb hundreds of billions of dollars, close to a trillion dollars per year and annual surplus, most of it coming from the Peoples Republic of China, Mr Vance said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And what thats going to mean in the rebalancing is that we think that the PRC is going to have to, frankly, let their own population consume a little bit more theyve held consumption levels down in order to increase these massive exports.

Mr Trump had claimed previously that the US and China were holding negotiations on lowering tariffs, which Beijing has denied, saying Trump must first lower his stiff tariffs.

The Chinese Commerce Ministry on Tuesday confirmed the meeting between its vice premier and Bessent in Switzerland.

The Chinese side carefully evaluated the information from the US side and decided to agree to have contact with the US side after fully considering global expectations, Chinese interests and calls from US businesses and consumers, said a ministry spokesperson.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The spokesperson said China would not sacrifice its principles or global equity or justice in seeking any agreement.

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.
The air war currently unfolding between India and Pakistan is exceedingly murky, but one aspect that seems almost certain is the use of the Chinese-made PL-15 active-radar-guided air-to-air missile (AAM) by Pakistan. So far, Pakistan claims to have shot down five Indian aircraft, and there are multiple accounts, including from Indian officials, pointing to the crash of at least two aircraft, without specifying the reasons. Meanwhile, a French official has reportedly confirmed the loss of one of the Indian Air Forces prized Rafale multirole fighters. Regardless, the fighting between the two nuclear-armed states is the most intense for decades, now with the growing risk of the situation spiraling further.

So 1st Use of PL-15 Very Long Range Air to Air Missile by PAF. pic.twitter.com/LMR1vgBk55  International Defence Analysis (@Defence_IDA) May 7, 2025

Imagery showing the apparent wreckage of a PL-15 missile began circulating on social media today. Reportedly, the missile parts fell in Hoshiarpur district, in the northeast of the Indian state of Punjab. In particular, a portion of the missile body, from immediately behind the radome, can be identified. This carries a serial number and a small door marked as a seeker test port, as seen at the top of this story.

Another image purports to show the missile seeker from the PL-15, which uses active electronically scanned array (AESA) technology, with active and passive modes, and which is said to provide better resistance to countermeasures than previous Chinese AAMs.

Didnt think Id ever see a PL-15(E)s AESA without going to a vault lol



Good to know my guess was right pic.twitter.com/XQBwDiMOoN  John Ridge    (@John_A_Ridge) May 7, 2025

While the identity of the weapon cant be verified beyond doubt at this point, a PL-15 seems most likely. Whether the missile in question successfully brought down a target is unclear. Whatever the case, Pakistans use of the missile is a significant development; this seems to be the first confirmed use of the weapon in an operational context.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As you can read about in our in-depth story on Chinese air-to-air missiles, the PL-15 is Chinas standard active-radar-guided AAM, and it was intended to at least match the performance of the U.S.-made AIM-120D Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM). From the start, this missile was tailored for internal carriage, initially in the J-20 stealth fighter, and features distinctive cropped fins to reduce its dimensions. A further version, even better optimized for internal carriage, has since appeared, as you can read about here.

A Chinese J-10C with an air-to-air load-out comprising PL-15 (inboard) and PL-10 (outboard) AAMs. via Chinese internet

The basic PL-15 has a dual-pulse rocket motor that provides a reported range of 124 miles. Another important feature is a two-way datalink that allows the launching aircraft to provide guidance updates to the missile and the missile to provide its own information to the launching aircraft.

The potent PL-15 missile prompted the United States, among others, to start the development of new air-to-air weapons specifically designed to outrange them. In the meantime, the PL-15 is now replacing the older PL-12 across Chinas fighter fleet and is also offered for export under the PL-15E name.

Published performance figures for the PL-15E include a range of 90 miles, somewhat less than for the domestic version, which could be the result of a different propellant or changes to the motor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In Pakistan Air Force service, the PL-15E arms the JF-17 Block III fighter as well as the J-10C, for which Pakistan became the first export customer, with initial deliveries in 2022.

Pakistan Air Force J-10C fighter jets perform at a rehearsal ahead of Pakistans national day parade in Islamabad on March 21, 2024. (Photo by Aamir QURESHI / AFP via Getty Images) AAMIR QURESHI

China's Chengdu Aircraft Corporations stock surged about 20% after the Pakistan Air Force reportedly downed five Indian jets, including three Rafales.



Chengdu produces JF-17 and J-10C fighter jets, both in service with Pakistan Air Force. pic.twitter.com/5lJHWidQHq  Clash Report (@clashreport) May 7, 2025

India has a counterpart to the PL-15 in the MBDA Meteor beyond-visual-range missile (BVRAAM), a ramjet-powered weapon that may well offer advantages over the Chinese missile. While Western analysts determine that the PL-15 has a comparable maximum range to the Meteor, the pan-European missile likely has a much larger no-escape zone and better long-range kill probability thanks to its ramjet motor.

Regardless of what the PL-15 was fired at, and whether it successfully engaged its target, Pakistan has posted a flurry of claims of Indian Air Force aircraft shot down.

A report in The New York Times cites three officials, local news reports, and accounts of witnesses, who said that at least two aircraft went down in India and the Indian-controlled side of Kashmir.

NYT: "One Indian official confirmed the crash of three aircraft, but cautioned that the reasons were not clear. Two other Indian security officials confirmed reports that some Indian aircraft had gone down, but would not elaborate on the details"  Shashank Joshi (@shashj) May 7, 2025

Various unverified imagery has been posted to social media purporting to show the wreckage of Indian Air Force fighters shot down or otherwise lost in combat. With so much propaganda circulating and information operations ongoing, all open-source imagery has to be taken as unconfirmed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One of these shows an engine that appears to be from a French-made combat jet, initially identified as either an Indian Air Force Rafale or Mirage 2000, although certain details of the nozzle seemed to point more strongly toward the first option.

There's a good chance that an Indian Rafale ate a PL-15 last night pic.twitter.com/fZU8j3bBKU  Doha (@Doha104p3) May 7, 2025

Usually I don't wade into this, but this additional angle of the mystery engine does look like it has a distinctive pattern of screws on nozzles (pic 1), consistent with M88 which powers Rafale (pic 2), rather than M53 which powers Mirage 2000 (pic 3)



Hmm https://t.co/ztrqv7usZc pic.twitter.com/zYLnCpNNQz  Rick Joe (@RickJoe_PLA) May 7, 2025

Subsequently, a photo began to circulate that purports to show parts of a Rafales tailfin and rudder lying in a field, said to be in Bathinda, Punjab. The wreckage bears the serial number BS-001, which would identify it as a single-seat Rafale EH.

CONFIRMED: One of the three Indian Rafale jets Pakistan claimed to have downed is now confirmed.



Wreckage bearing serial number BS-001 was found in Bathinda, verifying the Pakistani claim.



This was Indias first Dassault Rafale EH fighter jet. pic.twitter.com/xXrfhTtIUq  Clash Report (@clashreport) May 7, 2025

An Indian Air Force single-seat Rafale EH multirole fighter. Indian Air Force

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A video apparently taken by locals in the village of Aklian Kalan, Punjab, shows what seems to be the remains of an MBDA MICA air-to-air missile, as well as its associated missile launch rail. The MICA is a weapon associated with both the Rafale and the Mirage 2000, although Aklian Kalan is notably only around 12 miles from Bathinda Air Force Station, home to Indian Rafales.

Likely looking at a loss of an Indian Air Force Mirage 2000 with a MICA (not sure what variant) AAM still in the rail https://t.co/D12STfxB5w  Doha (@Doha104p3) May 7, 2025

Since this imagery began to circulate, an unnamed French official confirmed to CNN that an Indian Air Force Rafale was brought down by Pakistan, but provided no details of exactly what brought it down.

New: A high-ranking French intelligence official told CNN that one Rafale fighter jet operated by the Indian Air Force was downed by Pakistan, in what would mark the first time that one of the sophisticated French-made warplanes has been lost in combat.



Pakistan claimed earlier https://t.co/ixmULw1HXX  Jim Sciutto (@jimsciutto) May 7, 2025

Other imagery claims to show the wreckage of an Indian MiG-29 Fulcrum or Su-30MKI Flanker fighter, based on the Russian-made K-36DM ejection seat thats visible. This aircraft is said to have come down in the Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Previously, Reuters had reported that an Indian combat jet crashed for unspecified reasons somewhere in Jammu and Kashmir, and that its pilot was injured and taken to a hospital. A single pilot, if true, would point toward a MiG-29 rather than the two-seat Su-30.

Exclusive images of IAF jet which fell in ramban, pilot failed to eject it seems so from ejection seat pics @alpha_defense @sneheshphilip @VishnuNDTV @alpha_defense @ pic.twitter.com/HrwuD2u4Rw  swiftretort (@swiftretort1) May 7, 2025

K-36DM ejection seat of the downed Indian MiG-29 https://t.co/Gtwp2Vw5B2 pic.twitter.com/3YgfbxbzIH          (@TheDeadDistrict) May 7, 2025

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

All of these developments, as well as the surrounding claims and counter-claims, point to the confusion that is very typical when dealing with the heat of combat. With that in mind, it remains possible that at least some of these apparent losses were accidents, or perhaps blue-on-blue incidents. The involvement of surface-to-air missiles also shouldnt be ruled out at this stage.

And while the loss of a Rafale, especially to a Chinese-designed fighter, if confirmed, would be a huge propaganda win for Pakistan and, to some degree, China, the reality is that modern air combat is far more than a simple fighter-versus-fighter affair. In the long run, other aspects, including training, munitions, networking, airborne early warning, electronic warfare, tactics, and much more, will play into successes and failures. With that in mind, even the combat loss of a Rafale doesnt make that aircraft a dud, which is good news for the Indian Navy, too, since this service recently had an order for the carrier-based version of the fighter signed off.

In other developments, the office of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that the countrys armed forces have been authorized to undertake corresponding actions after Indias strikes on Wednesday night.

For its part, India said that its Operation Sindoor hit nine targets that it described as terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and on Pakistans side of the disputed Kashmir region. Indian military spokespersons said that the targets belonged to two Islamist militant groups: Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri told a briefing that Intelligence and monitoring of Pakistan-based terror modules showed that further attacks against India were impending, therefore it was necessary to take pre-emptive and precautionary strikes.

A map centered on Pahalgam offering a general overview of the disputed Kashmir region. Indian strikes on Wednesday night targeted Pakistani-controlled parts of Kashmir, as well as adjacent areas in Pakistan proper. Google Maps

Pakistan said that six locations on its territory were targeted, but claimed that none of them were militant camps. A Pakistan military spokesperson said that at least 26 civilians were killed and 46 injured in the strikes. In a statement, JeM said that 10 relatives of its leader Masood Azhar were killed in an Indian strike.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Indian police and medics claim that at least seven civilians have been killed and 30 others injured by retaliatory Pakistani firing and shelling overnight.

 Geolocations of ALL sites that the Indian Army has claimed to have hit in Pakistan and Kashmir.

1. Masjid Syedna Bilal/Hazrat Bilal

34.385846N 73.456974E

It appears to have been a direct hit, according to after-strike ground photos.https://t.co/sgbFSD9kAipic.twitter.com/VZvxlSOi1Q  Nathan Ruser (@Nrg8000) May 7, 2025

Based on imagery that has emerged on social media, India appears to have used a version of its BrahMos supersonic cruise missile in at least some of these strikes, alongside attacks by Indian Air Force fighters. Also known by the designation PJ-10, this ramjet-powered weapon was developed and manufactured as a collaborative effort between India and Russia. The BrahMos is available in ground-launched, air-launched, sub-launched, and ship-launched versions, and the missile has a reported range of between 300-500 kilometers (186-311 miles).

It would appear India used Brahmos SSM to strike bhawalpur, as a Brahmos Booster was found in Rajasthan.

CK-310 (Russian Designation for Brahmos) is written in first image.



For comparison see Img 3 and 4 pic.twitter.com/M1ZwVSPSa7  Farooq Bhai (@FarooqB90714421) May 7, 2025

The unidentified missile debris that fell inside Indian territory appears, based on the Russian markings on it, to be a Russian-made surface-to-air missile. pic.twitter.com/Z904bFn0h2   (@lfx160219) May 7, 2025

The Indian government has said its latest strikes were retaliation for the terrorist attack that killed 26 civilians in Kashmir last month.

This is a developing story. We will update it as more news comes in.

Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com
China on Wednesday urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint following India's deadly strikes on Pakistani targets, expressing concern over the rising tensions.

"China regrets India's military action this morning and is concerned about the current developments," a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry in Beijing said in a statement.

"We call on both India and Pakistan to prioritize peace and stability, remain calm and exercise restraint, and avoid actions that further complicate the situation."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While ties between China and India remain strained due to long-standing border disputes in the Himalayas, Beijing maintains close economic relations with Pakistan.

Through its Belt and Road Initiative, China is funding road and rail infrastructure projects in Pakistan aimed at connecting western China's Xinjiang region with the Arabian Sea.

Past attacks by militant groups in south-western Pakistan have also targeted Chinese workers. Beijing reiterated its opposition to all forms of terrorism.
The News

Chinas Xi Jinping arrived in Moscow Wednesday for a four-day state visit aimed at deepening the mutual trust between the Chinese leader and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Beijing said.

Officials are set to ink a series of agreements during the sojourn, and both leaders are expected to discuss Ukraine and Russia-US relations in a bilateral meeting, the Kremlin said.

Xi is the guest of honor for Russias annual Victory Day parade on Friday, a politically important celebration to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Putin has ordered a three-day ceasefire with Ukraine to coincide with the celebrations, but Kyiv has dismissed the gesture, warning that it is not responsible for the safety of foreign officials in Russia.

SIGNALS

Xis bet on closer ties with Moscow remains a double-edged sword

Sources: Financial Times, The Brookings Institution

While close ties to Moscow have afforded China access to cheap Russian energy and weapons, Chinese leader Xi Jinpings relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin has complicated Beijings push to increase trade with Western nations, analysts argued. But for Moscow and Beijing, the war-induced investment in their decades-long relationship has paid off massively, one analyst argued, with further benefits possible as Donald Trumps disruptive trade policies push more countries to reconsider China as an alternative to Washington. Even so, Beijings closeness to Moscow is now complicating Chinas outreach to Europe in response to Washingtons trade war: By visibly aligning with Putin,  Beijing reinforces suspicions that it is willing to side with revisionist powers, unnerving Europe and parts of Asia, a China expert argued.

Xis trip underscores challenge of so-called reverse Kissinger strategy

Sources: Bloomberg, The Brookings Institution, Center for Strategic and International Studies, Foreign Affairs, Rossiyskaya Gazeta

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Xi Jinpings trip to Moscow underscored the challenges inherent in the Trump administrations apparent aim of stopping Russia and China from becoming closer, with Xi on Wednesday writing in Russian media that both countries must foil all schemes to disrupt or undermine our bonds. Washington officials have repeatedly indicated they want to achieve what analysts have called a reverse Nixon, a reference to that presidents forging diplomatic ties with Beijing to isolate the then Soviet Union. Experts point to China and Russias history of conflict, Moscows concerns over Chinas influence in Russias East, and Beijings wariness about Moscows militarism as real limits to their partnership. In China, doubts persist about how close it wants to be with Russia, a historian of Russian-Chinese relations argued.

Russias Victory Day has become a celebration of Moscows war in Ukraine

Sources: The Guardian, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

Russias Victory Day celebrations, conceived to commemorate the Soviet Unions fight against the Nazis in World War II, have evolved into an opportunity for Vladimir Putin to foster nationalism and  more recently  honor Russian soldiers fighting in Ukraine. The holiday is the main marketing tool employed to legitimize Russias current political regime, a Russian analyst said, creating ties between Putin and a glorious military victory. The slogan we can do it again has grown increasingly popular, The Guardian reported, and the Kremlin has long argued, without evidence, that Russias fight in Ukraine is aimed at the denazification of the country. This selective reading of Russian history is a key part of what drove Putin to invade Russias neighbor, a leading WWII historian argued.
EIA expects U.S. natural gas prices to surge in 2025 and 2026

U.S. natural gas prices have seen a notable decrease in recent months, with the Henry Hub spot price settling at $3.12 per million British thermal units (MMBtu) on April 30, 2025, down from $3.96/MMBtu at the start of the month, according to the data provided by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).

Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register
BEIJING (Reuters) - China's President Xi Jinping congratulated Friedrich Merz on Tuesday after he was elected chancellor by the German parliament, Chinese state media reported on Wednesday.

Xi said that as the world's second- and third-largest economies and major countries with global influence, China and Germany should deepen their cooperation and jointly promote economic globalisation, the report added.

(Reporting by Joe Cash; Editing by Himani Sarkar)
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday congratulated Germany's new Chancellor Friedrich Merz on his election and said Beijing was ready to deepen cooperation and open a "new chapter" in the strategic partnership between the two countries.

China was prepared to work with Germany to guide China-EU cooperation "in the right direction," Xi said, according to state news agency Xinhua.

He added that the world was facing increasing "headwinds of unilateralism and protectionism," and that Beijing and Berlin should uphold fairness and justice and "weather storms" together.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chinese Premier Li Qiang also sent congratulations to Merz.

Conservative leader Merz has taken a more cautious stance on China. During the election campaign, he warned against over-reliance on Chinese markets and described China as not being a constitutional state "by our standards."

Beijing's outreach comes as it seeks allies amid growing trade tensions with the United States. China was Germany's second-largest trading partner in 2024, according to the Federal Statistical Office.

The economic relationship between China and Germany has faced headwinds, including complaints over cheap Chinese imports and restricted market access for German firms in China. Human rights issues also strained ties under former chancellor Olaf Scholz.
(NewsNation)  The first major negotiations between the United States and China since President Donald Trump sparked a trade war will take place this weekend in Switzerland  but some companies are already finding workarounds to keep business going.

In Texas and elsewhere in the U.S., developers are seeing increased interest from Chinese companies looking to relocate, the South China Morning Post first reported. Tariffs against China are currently 145%, while Chinas on the U.S. total 125%.



A wave of Chinese companies is reportedly rushing to move manufacturing west to stave off Trumps tariffs and the impact they will bring.

The United States accounts for nearly 95% of our orders. Its not a market we can afford to lose, Chinese business owner Ryan Zhou told the Post.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

US, China to hold first major trade talks in Switzerland

Yasheng Huang, professor of global economics and management at MIT, told NewsNation relocating a Chinese company is a tall order.

Its not that easy to produce in this country. Its very easy to consume, but its not that easy to produce, Huang said.

For many of the relocating companies, the goal is to remain competitive  and for some, simply to survive  under the Trump administrations restrictive trade policies.

Huang said it could take years, even decades, to grow a successful business in the U.S. with reliable supply chains and a solid labor force, citing complicated labor and environmental laws and a lesser industrial ecosystem.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
This is an adapted excerpt from the May 6 episode of All In with Chris Hayes.

Donald Trump, the president of the United States, really does seem hell-bent on intentionally destroying the U.S. economy. But, even after everything we have seen, there are still some folks, in fact some very powerful and wealthy people, who have not come to terms with this.

In part, this is due to the fact that the president truly does not even seem to understand the most basic way the economy he wants to destroy currently functions. Take his ridiculous shopkeeper metaphor, for example. On Tuesday, Trump told reporters to think of the U.S. as a super luxury store, a store that has the goods.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Youre going to come and youre going to pay a price, and were going to give you a very good price, were going to make very good deals. And in some cases, well adjust, but thats where it is, the president said from the Oval Office. I could announce 50 to 100 deals right now because Im the shopkeeper and I keep the store. I know what countries are looking for and I know what were looking for, and I can just set those terms and they can go shopping, or they dont have to go shopping.

Now, to me, that makes two things clear: First, he really does not know what he is talking about, at a fundamental level. In that analogy, we are the customer, not the store. The American consumers are the ones doing all the buying. Were the shoppers of last resort for the whole world. But second, those statements also make it clear Trump is not bluffing. He believes all this cockamamie nonsense.

Trump made those remarks from the White House ahead of a meeting with the new prime minister of Canada, Mark Carney. Before Carney even arrived, Trump was blustering on social media, sharing his warped theory of how the American economy works, in which anyone who sells us things is stealing from us, and we do not need to buy anything from anyone. In that post, he even specified that he was referring to Canadian lumber, which makes up nearly 30% of the softwood lumber used for home construction in this country.

Once again, a foreign leader had to sit there politely while the president of the United States, who has incited a global trade war, demonstrated he has no idea what he is talking about. And once again, a foreign leader had to fervently, but gently, rebuff Trumps incoherent worldview in real time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When Trump was asked how he would react if Canada decided not to shop in the American store as much as before, the president told reporters the U.S. doesnt do much business with Canada. But, as Carney pointed out, Canada is the largest client of the United States.

Right now, we are in a little bit of a false lull when it comes to Trumps trade war. If you look at the markets, they have actually made back a lot of the losses from the initial tariff shock, which is, I suppose, better than the alternative. But I am not sure it reflects the reality of the situation.

It appears as if theres a view among those on Wall Street and some Republican politicians that it cannot possibly be that Trump is so destructive and reckless, that he misunderstands the economy so badly, that he will actually carry out this trade war. They still believe he is going to have to call it off.

I get where they are coming from, because we know when Trump tries to bully someone and they confront him, he often retreats and tries to declare victory anyway. So, it is still possible thats what will happen here. But if you listen to him in basically every open forum, he keeps insisting that he is going to burn everything down, even if it means Americans are going to suffer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Just consider Trumps comments to NBC News Kristen Welker, in which he doubled down on his insistence that little girls in the U.S. might need to accept having fewer dolls. I dont think a beautiful baby girl needs  thats 11 years old  needs to have 30 dolls, the president said. I think they can have three dolls or four dolls.

While Wall Street and some Republicans have refused to take Trump at his word, the people at the center of this trade war understand he is serious. The CEO of Mattel, the company that makes Barbies, told CNBC these tariffs will not bring doll manufacturing back to America.

Even if you look at Trumps actions, there are no signs of him backing down from his trade war. On Tuesday, he implied there might not be any deals on tariffs at all. On the same day, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent was forced to acknowledge that Trump has been repeatedly lying about negotiations with China. The U.S. hasnt had any negotiations with China; those are now set to start Saturday.

Right now, all of Trumps actions and all of his words suggest that, yes, he is foolish and destructive enough to single-handedly push the U.S. economy into a catastrophic recession. I understand why that is difficult for folks to wrap their heads around, but here we are.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
By Ben Blanchard

TAIPEI (Reuters) -Taiwan's National Palace Museum, home to one of the world's biggest collections of imperial Chinese treasures, does not plan any joint events with China for its 100th anniversary due to Beijing's military threats, its director said on Wednesday.

The museum was re-established in Taiwan in 1965 after the Republic of China government lost a civil war with Mao Zedong's communists and fled to the island in 1949, taking with them thousands of cases of antiques once owned by China's emperors.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A competing institution remains in Beijing, the similarly named Palace Museum.

Speaking to reporters at the museum in the Taipei foothills, National Palace Museum Director Hsiao Tsung-huang said cooperation with Beijing's museum needed both sides to be willing to work together.

"Whether it's fighter jets, navy or civilian ships going up and down the Taiwan Strait, there is no opportunity like there was before for mutual friendliness or cooperation," he said, referring to China's almost daily military activities around Taiwan.

"We'd be happy to see it, but at the moment the other side hasn't taken the initiative to talk, and we even more cannot take the initiative to talk to them," Hsiao added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Palace Museum in Beijing did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Instead, Taipei's museum will send some of its collection to Prague and Paris this year, with the Qing dynasty Jadeite Cabbage, one its most famous pieces which rarely leaves Taiwan, going on display at the Czech Republic's National Museum.

Next month, the National Palace Museum will also host an exhibition of French impressionist and modernist art from New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art.

The National Palace Museum holds more than 690,000 items. More than 80% of them are from China's last dynasty, the former Qing court, which was overthrown in 1911.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A second branch of the museum opened in the southern county of Chiayi in 2015, and is being expanded to enable the public to see even more of the collection's artefacts. It will have a special focus on some of the museum's rarest pieces which Taiwan terms "national treasures".

(Reporting by Ben Blanchard; Editing by Kate Mayberry)
SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage)  With the May 3 election over, the City of San Angelo is making plans to canvass unofficial election results, swear in elected officials and hold a runoff election.

According to the City, the following outcomes were determined through the May 3 election:

Proposed bond for CRC Roofers Coliseum renovation: Passed with 53% of the vote.

Mayor: Tom Thompson was elected with 51% of the vote.

District 4 City Council: Patrick Keely was elected with 67% of the vote.

District 6 City Council: Mary Coffey was elected and ran unopposed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

RELATED: San Angelo bonds, city council election results

The results will be canvassed during a special City Council meeting on May 14. Once the results have been made official, Thompson, Keely and Coffey will be formally sworn into their positions during the May 20 City Council meeting.

The City stated that both meetings will be held in the McNease Convention Center at 501 Rio Concho Drive.

San Angelo citizens will have to wait longer to welcome their new District 2 councilmember, though. The City stated that a runoff election between candidates Dudra Butler and Joe Self will be held because neither candidate received 50% plus one vote during the May 3 election.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The runoff election will be held on June 7. Early voting will be held from May 27 to June 3 in the Edd B. and Frances Frink Keyes Building, located at 113 W. Beauregard Ave., during the following times:

May 27-31  9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

June 1  1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

June 2-3  7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

For more information on local elections, visit conchovalleyhomepage.coms Your Local Election HQ webpage.

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.
May 6JAMESTOWN  The Jamestown City Council unanimously approved on Monday, May 5, awarding a bid for more than $2.5 million to Industrial Builders Inc. to replace three pedestrian bridges in Jamestown.

The city of Jamestown's share is just over $490,000. Federal funds obligated for the project won't exceed about 81% of the total eligible project cost.

Mayor Dwaine Heinrich said there will be a citywide special assessment to pay for the local share.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The three pedestrian bridges that will be replaced are at Klaus, McElroy and Nickeus parks. Plans call for replacing the bridges with wider structures for easier maintenance and better access.

The bridges in Nickeus and Klaus parks were built in 1909 and 1908, respectively. The bridge at McElroy Park was built sometime after 1957.

"This is something that needs to be taken care of," said David Steele, city councilman.

The pedestrian bridge project is a collaboration between the city of Jamestown and the Jamestown Parks and Recreation District.

City Engineer Travis Dillman said the estimated cost for the project was about $3.75 million in 2023 with the local share being about $1.2 million. The local share has grown to about $1.5 million. He did not say what the total estimated cost has increased to.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dillman said the project went through a North Dakota Department of Transportation process and included an archaeological study among others.

He said the Jamestown Parks and Recreation Commission will need to approve the bid from Industrial Builders as well at its next meeting on Monday, May 12.

The City Council unanimously approved awarding a bid for about $2.5 million to Scherbenske Inc. for a portion of the 2025 water main replacement project.

Dillman said this portion of the project includes replacing the water main at Business Loop West. He said the project needs to get completed before Business Loop West is reconstructed in 2027.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In related business, the City Council unanimously approved awarding a bid for about $1.2 million to Crow River Construction for a portion of the 2025 water main replacement project.

The awarding of the bids is contingent on approval from the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality.

The entire project includes replacing deteriorated water mains and associated infrastructure in the following areas:

* between the 1100 and 1300 blocks of 4th Avenue Southwest

* between the 400 block Southwest and 200 block Southeast of 10th Street/U.S. Highway 52

* between the 800 and 1000 blocks of 1st Avenue South

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

* 400 block of 7th Street Southwest

* between the 1100 and 1600 blocks of 4th Avenue Northwest

Dillman said a Department of Water Resources Pre-Commission meeting is scheduled for May 22 when additional funds for the water main replacement project could be approved. He said the city will receive a $1.2 million forgivable loan through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund for the water main replacement project.

The City Council also unanimously approved a letter of intent to meet conditions set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for a potential grant for a 96-inch storm water disaster project. In addition, the City Council approved a request for an obligation of funds from USDA Rural Development for the 96-inch storm water disaster project for up to $2.35 million in grant funds.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The water main replacement project began after stormwater runoff and flooding resulted in the failure of a 96-inch stormwater pipe located south of 25th Street Southwest and east of 8th Avenue Southwest.

The first phase included replacing the stormwater pipe near Applebee's. The second phase included replacing the water main from 25th Street Southwest to the parking lot where Perkins Restaurant & Bakery was formerly located. The final phase includes replacing the 96-inch storm sewer from U.S. Highway 281 to Interstate 94, Heinrich said.

Heinrich said the total cost of the water main replacement project is about $9 million.

"We really owe the people up at Interstate Engineering that were on top of some of these grants really a big thank you because they really zeroed in on a couple of things and had the relationship with some people and the knowledge of how to fill out these grant requests to be able to get this," he said. "This $9 million project is going to be completed without using any local money. ... It's going to be paid for with money from the State Water Commission, the USDA and the use of Prairie Dog funds."
For the record:

9:55 a.m. May 7, 2025: A previous version of this story gave an incorrect number of commissioners.



An independent commission is calling for the creation of new local government authorities to oversee the rebuilding of fire-destroyed neighborhoods in Altadena and Pacific Palisades, with powers to coordinate planning and construction efforts and secure financing from property taxes, state and federal funds and philanthropic organizations.

The proposal is one of several preliminary recommendations in a report issued by the Blue Ribbon Commission on Climate Action and Fire-Safe Recovery , which was formed by Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath to help inform the recovery efforts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It's really critical we provide homeowners and communities all the resources they can get to be able to afford to rebuild, said Matt Petersen, the commissions chair and chief executive of Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator, which works with startups to promote renewable energy. It really provides us additional resources and finds ways to leverage capital to help.

Fernando Guerra, director of the Center for the Study of Los Angeles at Loyola Marymount University, said he thinks the recommendations are good but that there are various practical hurdles to implementing them.

They're obviously easier said than done, Guerra said. They are all doable, but there needs to be political will to carry them out, and you need to have the buy-in of the property owners.

The 20-member commission includes people drawn from business, local government, civic organizations and environmental groups, as well as experts in urban planning. One of its key recommendations calls for creating one or more new rebuilding authorities that would use tax-increment financing and other funding sources to buy fire-razed lots that property owners want to sell and guide the rebuilding process  selecting developers and coordinating construction at scale.

Supervisor Lindsey Horvath speaks Tuesday at the Santa Monica Pier during "Stronger Together: Community Recovery and Resilience," an event co-hosted by the Altadena Coalition and Pali Strong for survivors of the Eaton and Palisades fires. (Juliana Yamada / Los Angeles Times)

Residents displaced by the January wildfires would get priority for the new homes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The purpose is to find creative ways to help finance and coordinate the efforts needed to ensure the rebuilding, Petersen said. This coordinated approach is also geared toward addressing concerns among residents that without some intervention, developers otherwise might simply buy leveled lots and build more expensive homes.

Similar development authorities have been set up to oversee rebuilding in areas devastated by other major disasters, such as the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, the 1994 Northridge earthquake, the 9/11 attacks and Hurricane Katrina.

Read more: Photos: Before and after cleanup for the Los Angeles-area wildfires

The report, released last week, says a so-called Resilient Rebuilding Authority would take steps to enhance property insurability and promote a resilient and sustainable recovery.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We have both a responsibility and an opportunity to rebuild smarter and safer, Horvath said, noting that many residents want neighborhoods to be rebuilt in ways that help address climate change and prepare for its effects. Scientists say global warming contributed to the mix of factors that made the fires so intense and destructive.

The commission plans to release its final recommendations in June.

Efforts to carry out the proposals will be complicated by various factors, including widespread interest in rebuilding quickly and ongoing budget and staffing cuts within city government, said Mike Bonin, a former Los Angeles City Council member who leads the Pat Brown Institute for Public Affairs at Cal State Los Angeles.

The window for thinking about rebuilding as opposed to acting on rebuilding is closing pretty fast, and the recommendations here really try to focus on how to rebuild right, Bonin said. More and more of the civic conversation is how to rebuild fast.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Zev Yaroslavsky, director of the Los Angeles Initiative at the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, said the commissions ambitious approach is impressive but faces significant hurdles.

Anytime you take away authority from a local government to determine what's going to happen in their own jurisdiction, it raises some antennas, said Yaroslavsky, a former Los Angeles City Council member and county supervisor. What's the structure going to be here? So there's a lot of detail that needs to be fleshed out.

Forming a local rebuilding authority would enable the use of tax-increment financing, in which land purchases and improvements would be funded based on expected increases in property taxes from improvements.

Some of the proposals, such as creating the rebuilding authorities, would require state legislation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The commission is also proposing to create an L.A. County Fire Control District with dedicated funds to support fire safety efforts, such as maintaining buffer zones between homes and wildland vegetation.

The commissions other recommendations include:



mandating the most fire-protective building standards, to improve both the safety and the insurability of homes;

improving water systems to provide reliable supplies and serve firefighting needs;

Creating a streamlined permit or pre-approved designs for all-electric homes and power systems, including solar and battery storage, to deliver clean energy;

supporting health-related efforts, such as funding expanded mental health services for affected residents and providing protective gear for cleanup workers;

taking various steps to ensure homeowners insurance is available and affordable for all residents.

Without bold, coordinated action, we risk further displacement, rising insurance costs, and deepening community vulnerability to future climate events, the commission said in the report. It said when homes are constructed using the latest building and energy codes along with the best science related to wildfire home ignitions  the neighborhood and individual property owners will increase their insurability.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The report also noted that soil testing in burned areas is important not only to public health but also to securing financing for construction.

As part of rebuilding, the commission's members said they are considering ways of ensuring affordable rental housing. They said their initial proposals are being released to inform decisions by officials in Los Angeles and Sacramento.

Read more: When FEMA failed to test soil for toxic substances after the L.A. fires, The Times had it done. The results were alarming

To improve local water infrastructure, the commission recommended utilities carry out vulnerability assessments and upgrade systems to meet modern fire flow requirements. Such improvements are intended to prevent the sort of problems firefighters encountered as hydrants lost pressure and ran dry in some areas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The commissions members also called for prioritizing additional water storage capacity in neighborhoods, and systems with external sprinklers to douse homes, parks and schools.

Having more water available to fight fires in more locations that are highly vulnerable to these firestorms, I think, is really important, said Mark Gold, a committee member and director of water scarcity solutions for the Natural Resources Defense Council.

The goal is to build back in a more disaster-resilient fashion," he said.

Others who are participating as commission members include former Los Angeles Department of Water and Power General Manager Marty Adams; Mary Leslie, president of the Los Angeles Business Council; Russell Goldsmith, former chair of City National Bank; and Rudy Ortega, tribal president of the Fernandeno Tataviam Band of Mission Indians. UCLA researchers are providing support to the commission.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: Could balloon-like water tanks help fight L.A.'s fires? A new concept is touted as a solution

The goals outlined in the report, particularly the ambitious energy standards, will encounter some practical limitations, said Dan Dunmoyer, president and CEO of the California Building Industry Assn.

Practically, for many fire victims, they won't have adequate insurance to bridge the gap between their coverage and the aspirational goals of the blue ribbon commission  unless somebody else steps in to help them, Dunmoyer said.

Part of the problem is that insurance policies generally cover rebuilding homes to be similar to those lost, not more expensive homes with larger investments in energy systems, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You want to make it as easy as possible for people with their limited resources to be able to rebuild their homes, Dunmoyer said.

He said he hopes the Trump administration or Gov. Gavin Newsoms administration will come through with funds to help people rebuild and recover from the disaster.

The practical rebuild ability with limited insurance is going to make this very difficult to achieve without the bridge of government or charity, he said.

Loyola Marymount's Guerra also said hed like to see a much larger focus on affordable housing as part of the rebuilding effort. He said insurance is another issue that the recommendations dont solve.

Building a local self-insurance district based on tax assessments is one idea that should be explored, he said.

The only other catastrophe that was on such valuable land was really 9/11. No other catastrophe in American history has impacted such valuable land, he said. They have one of the greatest resources of any disaster area, and thats valuable land.

The value of this land, and how we could forecast the increasing value of this land, given property prices, is an incredible resource that could be leveraged, he said. Theres all sorts of opportunities given this crisis.



This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. Azerbaijan exported non-oil products worth $20.4 million to Kazakhstan from January through March 2025.

The data obtained by Trend from the Azerbaijani State Customs Committee shows that this figure grew by a whopping $8.7 million (73.8 percent) year-on-year.

Over the reporting period, exports of non-oil products to Kazakhstan amounted to 2.64 percent of Azerbaijan's total exports.

Thus, Kazakhstan ranked 6th among the top importers of Azerbaijani oil. At the same time, the volume of trade transactions between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan from January through March of this year amounted to $118.7 million, which is $47.9 million (67.6 percent) more than in the same months of 2024. During the reporting period, trade turnover with Kazakhstan amounted to one percent of Azerbaijan's total trade turnover.

From January through March of this year, Azerbaijan's total exports to Kazakhstan amounted to $20.6 million, which is $8.7 million (72.5 percent) more than in the same period of 2024. Also, from January through March of 2025, Azerbaijan's import from Kazakhstan amounted to $98.1 million, which is an increase of $39.3 million (66.7 percent) year-on-year.

Meanwhile, Azerbaijan's foreign trade turnover grew by 24.3 percent and amounted to $12 billion from January through March 2025.

Over the past year, the country's exports grew by 6.7 percent, or $401.75 million, to $6.4 billion, while imports increased by 52.6 percent, or $1.9 billion, to $5.7 billion.

The foreign trade surplus for the reporting period amounted to $722.9 million, which is $1.5 billion, or 3.1 times less than the same period of last year.
Civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump said he is filing a wrongful death lawsuit against the Okaloosa County Sheriffs Deputy who shot and killed 23-year-old U.S. senior airman Roger Fortson.

Crump made the announcement Tuesday afternoon alongside Fortsons mother, Meka Fortson.

I want accountability because he was 23. I want accountability because he was in his own home, Meka Fortson said.

The mother told Channel 2s Audrey Washington she will continue to travel to Okaloosa County, Florida, until the people she believes caused her sons death are held accountable.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They turned an ordinary day into what would be a death sentence, Crump said on Tuesday.

Crump said Deputy Eddie Duran, who was responding to a disturbance call at the time of the shooting in 2024, showed excessive and unconstitutional deadly force.

RELATED STORIES:

Crump noted that Duran shot and killed Fortson within seconds of Fortson answering his apartment door.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Deputy body cam video showed Fortson answer his own door while holding a legally owned handgun pointed toward the floor.

He was shot, dying with his little dog barking in the background, Crump said.

Crump also said he believed both the Okaloosa County Sheriffs office and the apartment complex where Fortson lived were responsible.

It was the wrong apartment, and had they not based everything on speculation, then maybe the deputy wouldve gotten the right apartment, Crump said.

Youre going to be held accountable and held accountable the right way, Meka Fortson said.

Duran is charged with manslaughter with a firearm.
Family members have identified a college dean shot and killed in California as an Atlanta native and Clark Atlanta University graduate.

Dr. Cameisha Clark died on Friday after police say a former security guard shot her and another employee at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology in Inglewood.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Police arrested and charged Jesse Figueroa with one count of murder, one count of attempted murder and other charges.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Clarks family released a statement to Channel 2s ABC affiliate KABC.

We are beyond devastated. Cameishas life was taken from us far too soon, in an act of senseless violence that no woman should ever have to endure, the statement read. She brought warmth, laughter, and grace into our lives every day. Her presence was a gift, and the void left behind is immeasurable.

Clark grew up in Atlanta and earned all three of her degrees at Clark Atlanta University.

The Clark Atlanta School of Education posted on its Facebook page a few months ago congratulating her on her new job.

Let's give a round of applause to today's Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Cameisha Clark! Dr. Cameisha Clark is a three-time... Posted by CAU School of Education on Thursday, March 6, 2025

She was also a former cheerleader for the Panthers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share this news. Please keep her family and friends in your prayers and give them time. With all our love we stand together for Cameisha, the program posted on its Instagram page.

Funeral arrangements for Clark have not been announced.

TRENDING STORIES:

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  The captain of the Clearwater Ferry issued a statement thanking those who helped save lives during the deadly crash in late April.

On April 27, the ferry was struck by a recreational boat driven by Jeff Knight, who was part of the management of Jannus Live until his resignation.

Several victims in Clearwater Ferry crash hire Morgan & Morgan to uncover any negligence

One person was killed in the collision, and 10 others were seriously injured.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a statement provided by an attorney, Captain Dennis Kimerer said he was thankful to have survived the incident.

I consider myself fortunate to be alive and deeply thankful to the heroic passengers, first

responders, good Samaritans, and medical professionals whose quick actions saved lives during and after the collision. My thoughts are with all those who were injuredand especially with the family mourning the loss of a beloved father. Out of respect for them and everyone affected, I will not be engaging in a public back-and-forth regarding the causes of this tragedy. I trust the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and other authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation, and I will continue to cooperate fully with them.

The Clearwater Ferry is expected to resume normal operations on Thursday. The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority said the vessel carrying passengers will not be the same one that was involved in the crash.

The U.S. Coast Guard performed safety inspections prior to the decision to resume operations.

The Clearwater Ferry team and the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) continue to be heartbroken for the people involved in the collision on April 27, including Jose Castro, who lost his life, the people who were hurt, and their families, a PSTA statement said. They reiterate their deep gratitude for the first responders, crew members, and other boaters who helped during the tragic event.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
The Cleveland school district is ending its 15-year attempt to use year-round classes to improve student learning in some schools, deciding last week to drop what the district and some experts once viewed as the best way for students to avoid the so-called summer slide.

Year-round schooling, which gained popularity in the 1970s, avoids long summer vacations in which students can forget much of what they learned during the school year. Under the plan, students attend classes as part of a normal grading period most of the summer. Their school years arent much longer than with a traditional schedule, just spread out differently, with their lost summer vacation days added to other breaks during the school year.

Clevelands move comes as some states like South Carolina and Florida have recently embraced or are trying out the approach, along with districts hoping to address pandemic learning loss. The number of schools using year-round schedules nationally fell from about 6% in the 1970s to under 3% before the pandemic, researchers report.

Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter

In Cleveland, previous district leaders once considered year-round school a promising way to turn around the struggling district. But it caught on in just six of Clevelands high schools, and new school leaders now want all district schools on the same calendar and curriculum so students arent lost if they change schools.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Leaders also arent convinced year-round school is helping. A district study this year with researchers from Cleveland State University and the American Institutes for Research showed the citys year-round schools often have higher math and English scores than other high schools, but mostly because the schools have more gifted students and students who would do well with any schedule. Research nationally is also mixed.

Related

Your Childs Education, Explained: What the Heck Is Summer Slide Anyway?

District CEO Warren Morgan decided gains were not enough to justify the additional $2.6 million in teacher salaries year-round classes cost.

There was no evidence that there was substantial, meaningful difference in the academic outcomes in our different calendar types, Morgan said before the school board vote last week. We also recognize and value the excellence of our many different schools but theres also other variablesthat make them great.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

David Hornak, executive director of the National Association for Year Round Education, said the pandemic renewed interest in year-round school as a possible way to tackle COVID learning loss, as well as increasing interest in related strategies, like adding summer learning programs or extra school days to the start or end of the school year.

Hornak estimates about 4% of schools now have a year-round schedule, but the association has scaled back over the years and has no staff to track it.

He said students are less likely to forget lessons over a shorter summer vacation. Longer breaks during the year, often about three weeks long, give schools a chance to give struggling students targeted help catching up, rather than waiting until July for a summer school that feels like a punishment.

I would love school leaders to consider summer as just another academic block of time, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Paul Von Hippel, a professor of public affairs at the University of Texas and prominent skeptic of year-round school, said he sees no difference in learning from just scheduling the same number of school days in different ways.

Instead of having one long break where students forget a lot, you have a bunch of short breaks where students forget a little, Von Hippel said. The amount of forgetting adds up to be about the same.

He added that though the pandemic prompted districts to consider year-round classes, he sees no evidence that they have caught on in a meaningful way.

Teachers, parents and students of Clevelands six year-round schools, however, fought the district CEO and implored the district school board at two hearings to keep a schedule they say made their schools unique and offered students chances they wouldnt have with a standard school year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Students from one year-round school even protested the change outside district headquarters last month.

Xavier Avery, a junior at Davis Aerospace and Maritime High School who organized the protest, reminded the school board right before its vote April 29 that his school has received state awards and has better test scores than the district average. He also said that students spend part of school days in warmer months on boats and planes, both learning to operate them and studying Lake Erie as part of the schools specialized focus.

Our year-round calendar plays a huge role in this success, he said. Its what makes our programs, internships and hands-on learning possible.

Cleveland also cut other non-traditional schedules as part of its push to put all schools on the same schedule. Morgan and the school board also axed extended school years, which added extra days at 17 other schools, as well as extended days, running 30 minutes longer each day at six schools. Those cuts drew more fire from parents, who said that being able to choose schools that offer extra time keeps them in the district, rather than selling their homes and moving to suburban districts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Year-round schools started gaining national attention in the 1970s, experts say, for two major reasons. In some cases, most notably fast-growing California where schools were too small to handle exploding enrollment, schools spread classes out over the whole year so they could stagger student schedules to accommodate all of them.

The other major draw, the one that appealed to Cleveland, was limiting summer learning loss or summer slide, where students forget much of what they learned during long vacations.

A 2019 summary of year-round schooling studies found mixed results, with Black, Hispanic and low-income students more likely to see gains and the staggered schedules in California more likely to show losses.

California stopped using that strategy after building new schools for all its students.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The total also fell as cities like Salt Lake City and Chicago dropped the approach several years ago after not seeing big academic gains. Post-pandemic data was not readily available.

Educators still see promise in the approach. A quarter of South Carolina schools and three school districts in Florida are now testing year-round classes for several years.

Other school districts in Dallas and Philadelphia are trying a related, though different, approach: simply adding voluntary days to the year to reduce summer slide and to help students who are behind catch up, whether from the pandemic or just needing more class time. Richmond, Virginia, has also added extra mandatory days to the school year at a few struggling schools, though parent complaints squashed attempts to do that for the whole district.

Related

After COVID, a Need for Year-Round School to Catch Kids Up?

Clevelands experiment with year-round school started in 2009 at a specialized STEM school created as a magnet for the citys top students. Former Cleveland school district CEO Eric Gordon soon after considered moving the entire district to year-round schedules.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In launching a district turnaround plan in 2012, he jokingly dismissed the traditional school year as an agrarian calendar we currently use so that all of my students are free to bring in the harvest every summer.

Gordon said the district could close half the gap between his students and higher-performing suburban students by eliminating the accumulation of 12 years of summer slides before graduation.

But attempts to use a year-round calendar at one large neighborhood high school failed after parents objected to students losing summer breaks and its effect on family vacations, summer jobs and school schedules of siblings on regular schedules.

A lack of air conditioning in some old schools and parent objections to a much-smaller change  starting the school year earlier in August than before  put plans to use the schedule at more schools on hold.

The year-round schedule ended up at no neighborhood schools and just six schools the district created with alternative class styles  a school based in a hospital or one focused on learning through digital art projects  that families could pick, but not be assigned to.
CLEVELAND (WJW)  A billion-dollar plan to transform Cleveland Hopkins International Airport is officially underway, with city leaders unveiling new details Tuesday about a multi-phase project that will unfold over the next decade.

Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb and Director of Port Control Bryant Francis revealed updated plans that include a brand new terminal, expanded parking, and modernized transportation infrastructure. All of it, part of a $1.6 billion investment aimed at reimagining the citys primary airport as a 21st century gateway for travelers.

$100K scratch-off winner sold at local grocery store

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its a bold new departure for our airport, Mayor Bibb said during a press event held on the pedestrian bridge connecting the terminal and parking garage. A world-class city needs a world-class airport.

The redevelopment marks the largest capital investment in the airports 100-year history. While past proposals focused on rebuilding the terminal in its current footprint, the updated plan shifts the main terminal to the site of the existing Smart Parking Garage allowing for greater expansion and design flexibility.

Phase 1: New Gold Lot 2026

A 1,600-space surface lot will be built adjacent to the long-vacant Concourse D. This project is expected to open in 2026 and help alleviate near-term parking needs.

Phase 2: Ground Transportation Hub 2029

The current Orange Lot will become home to a new $301 million facility featuring a 6,000-space parking garage, centralized ground transportation center, and an upgraded RTA station. This phase is projected to open by 2029.

Phase 3: New Terminal 2032

The centerpiece of the project, a brand new terminal, will be constructed where the Smart Parking Garage currently stands. Once the garage is demolished and relocated, work will begin on the $1.1 billion terminal, with an anticipated completion date in 2032.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Francis said the airport continues to negotiate financing details with major airlines, who are expected to fund much of the terminal construction. A final agreement could be reached as early as next year.

Pilot of small plane identified in fatal Ashland County crash

The city also released preliminary renderings created by Dallas-based architecture firm Corgan, showing a sleek, modern terminal flooded with natural light. The design features floor-to-ceiling windows, high ceilings with skylights, spacious ticketing areas, and improved passenger flow from curb to gate.

This design is a symbol of fluidity, Francis said. Its a structure that dances with sunlight gliding through glass and steel to create a sense of calm and movement for travelers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The initial focus of the redesign will center on pre-security areas, including ticketing, check-in, and baggage claim. Improvements to concourses and gate areas are expected in future phases.

The announcement comes as Cleveland Hopkins celebrates its 100th anniversary as a city-owned airport. In 2024, the airport served over 10 million passengers and offered nonstop service to 42 destinations through 10 major airlines.

A Hopkins Airport official confirmed to Fox 8 that part of the plan has been submitted for approval to the FAA.

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.
Four-mile-long cloud brightening experiments could take place in Britain within the next five years in an attempt to stymie global warming.

The Advanced Research and Invention Agency (Aria), a Government funding body, has announced more than 50 million for 21 geoengineering projects, including five outdoor field trials.

Among the selected projects include shooting plumes of seawater spray into the sky to see if it can enhance the reflectivity of low-lying clouds. Such a method could be used to stop so much sunlight reaching Earth.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Over the next three years, scientists at the universities of Manchester, Cambridge, Leeds and Exeter, will start to build the sprayers needed for the experiments, carry out indoor tests and modelling and consult local communities about where outdoor trials might take place.

Early tests are likely to be just a few seconds, and cover an area of a few hundred feet but if successful will be scaled up to several miles before the end of the five year project.

Professor Mark Symes, the programme director for Aria, said: You may indeed not be able to see any effect from the ground at all, but you should be able to measure it using equipment that flies through the cloud.

Modelling and indoor studies are vital, and they can tell us a lot, but they cant tell us everything that we wish to know about feasibility or the impacts of these approaches, and really, to fill that missing gap requires doing real world experiments and collecting real world data, which means experiments that are outdoors.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The University of Reading has also been given funding to research whether releasing electric charge into clouds could help increase their reflectivity and bounce back sunlight.

The team will use drones  similar to those used in choreographed light displays  over an area of around 330ft-wide to try and force water droplets in clouds to coalesce making them more reflective. Experiments are expected to start in the winter of 2027/28 following consultations.

The idea is to enhance the reflectivity of low-lying clouds, meaning less sunlight hits Earth - Peter Byrne/PA

The University of Cambridge will also be sending up natural mineral dust in the gondola of a weather balloon to see how it survives in the stratosphere, while experiments will also be taking place in Canada to find out if it is possible to thicken ice sheets.

Modelling to evaluate the feasibility and climate impacts of deploying a space-based sunshade could also be included in funded projects.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The University of Bristol will also be flying drones into the plumes of erupting volcanoes to gauge how the ejected ash and dust cloud impacts global cooling, to help understand what might happen if reproduced artificially.

Ilan Gur, the chief executive of Aria, said: In climate change, were essentially in a race against time in terms of the consequential, potentially devastating changes to the planet.

Despite increased discussion globally around ways to avoid those devastating consequences by approaches that could actively cool the planet, we really dont understand the scientific underpinnings behind many of the approaches that are being discussed.

Are these approaches even scientifically viable in terms of their mechanisms? Are the approaches ones that you could imagine deploying in a safe manner?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If the answer is no, these things dont work or they could never be deployed safely, that gives us the information we need to make decisions.

Geoengineering projects which seek to artificially alter the climate have proven controversial, with critics arguing they could bring damaging knock-on effects, as well as being an unhelpful distraction from lowering emissions.

A 57m gamble

Mike Hulme, a professor of human geography at the University of Cambridge, warned that Aria was leading the world down a slippery slope towards large-scale geoengineering technologies.

He said: 57 million is a huge amount of tax-payers money to be spent on this assortment of speculative technologies intended to manipulate the Earths climate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I say this because these technologies will always remain speculative, and unproven in the real world, until they are deployed at scale.

Just because they work in a model, or at a micro-scale in the lab or the sky, does not mean they will cool climate safely, without unwanted side-effects, in the real world.

There is therefore no way that this research can demonstrate that the technologies are safe, successful or reversible. The UK Government is leading the world down what academic analysts call the slippery slope towards eventual dangerous large-scale deployment of solar geoengineering technologies.

Some critics of the idea have labelled it speculative at best - Eli Pascall-Willis/Getty

Dr Naomi Vaughan, associate professor of climate change at the university of East Anglia UEA, said deploying sunlight reflecting methods would create a new risk to society.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its for these reasons that many scientists are cautious about SRM research because of how it could be used or misused in the future, she added.

But scientists are increasingly concerned that carbon dioxide levels are not falling fast enough and that further action may be needed to prevent catastrophic tipping points.

One such tipping point would be the collapse of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, an ocean current which brings warm water to Britain.

Professor Symes added: If those ocean circulations shut off, the simulations suggest that the UK could be about 10 degrees on average, colder than it is now.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And to put that in context, the last time these ocean circulations didnt operate was during the last ice age, and the land where my house is now in central Scotland, during the last ice age, was under about a mile of ice.

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.
Clovis Police seized a newer-model white Tesla in a Fresno neighborhood Tuesday morning that may be connected to the deadly shooting of 18-year-old Caleb Quick.

Clovis police served a search warrant at a home and located a parked Tesla in the garage, which was towed for evidence.

No one is in custody, police said.

The investigation is ongoing.

Quick was stalked by his killer inside a McDonalds on April 23 before he was shot on the side of the head. Quick died at the hospital.

The shooter remains on the loose.

The reward for a tip leading to the arrest of the homicide suspect has doubled again and is now $40,000.
CNN chief Mark Thompson said Wednesday that he welcomes audience criticism following controversy over the network being misled by a man who was freed from a Syrian prison last year.

Speaking at the Sir Harry Evans Investigative Journalism Summit in London, the former New York Times boss addressed the storm over Clarissa Wards December report, purporting to show a civilian being freed from incarceration under Bashar al-Assads regime. CNN later reported that the man served as a lieutenant in the Assads Air Force Intelligence Directorate.

More from Deadline

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thompson said it was important to speak with honesty and candor about the frailties of news during a panel discussion titled Rebooting Legacy Media. He added: I dont think we want trusting audiences. We want critical audiences, and we want to acknowledge that their desire to question, interrogate, and challenge are positive things, not negative.

Wards reporting went viral after she was filmed reassuring the prisoner, repeatedly telling him that he was ok as he clutched her arm. She then offered him water before bringing him out into the daylight. Oh God, there is light, he is captured saying. The prisoner said he was Adel Ghurbal from the central Syrian city of Homs, but was later identified as Salama Mohammad Salama.

Its unclear how or why Salama ended up in the Damascus jail, and CNN has not been able to reestablish contact with him, CNN said in a follow-up report.

Following the Ward report, CNN carried the following disclaimer on air: Since this report was published, CNN has continued to look into the background of the prisoner freed by the rebels. According to local residents in Syria, he was a former intelligence officer with the deposed Assad regime.

Best of Deadline

Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Kazakhstan quashes oil output rumors, reaffirms OPEC+ alliance

Photo: Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan's Ministry of Energy has responded to media reports suggesting that possible adjustments to the country's oil production levels are the result of external pressure. The Ministry strongly denied these claims, emphasizing that Kazakhstan remains committed to the OPEC+ agreement. It reaffirmed the importance of cooperation within the OPEC+ framework as a key tool for maintaining stability in the global oil market and confirmed that the country will continue to meet all its obligations under the agreement.

Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register
CNNs chief data analyst Harry Enten on Tuesday argued that President Donald Trumps proposal to reopen the notorious former federal prison at Alcatraz is tied to his favorable polling when it comes to tackling crime.

Yes, I know its late-night fodder for a lot of different folks. But what it actually speaks to is Donald Trump focusing the American peoples attention on an issue in which they actually do like what hes doing, Enten told CNNs Kate Bolduan.

Trump, in a post to his Truth Social platform Sunday, wrote that he was directing federal agencies to reopen a substantially enlarged and rebuilt Alcatraz in San Francisco Bay to house Americas most ruthless and violent Offenders.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Alcatraz  which symbolized inescapable and cruel conditions due to its maximum security and location  held noteworthy criminals in its 29-year run before shuttering in 1963 after it fell into disrepair.

The island, which Native American activists famously occupied from 1969 to 1971, now hosts 1.2 million tourists a year and commemorates the historic occupation.

Experts have stressed that reopening a prison on the island could prove to be expensive and, as one sociology professor who has written about Alcatraz put it to Time magazine, a new facility would likely just be a publicity stunt for Trump.

Enten, while arguing how Trumps proposal falls in line with one of his best performing issues in the polls, turned to Ipsos numbers showing Trump with a net approval rating of two percentage points when registered voters were asked about his handling of crime last month.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This figure, Enten noted, is far better than one from Joe Biden, who had a net approval rating of - 26 percentage points with registered voters on the same issue last year.

You rarely ever see it, Enten said.

So Donald Trump ran in part on law and order. It was one of the reasons that he got elected. And at this particular point, Americans like what theyre hearing from him on the issue of crime.

Trumps net approval rating on handling crime also rose by 15 percentage points between March 2024 to April of this year, according to Ipsos polling.

H/T: Mediaite

Related...
CNN fact-checker Daniel Dale says President Donald Trump did better than usual Tuesday  and told only two lies about Americas trade relationship with Canada  during his Oval Office meeting earlier that day with newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney.

President Trump did not repeat a lot of the lies about Canada that Ive been fact-checking for months, Dale confirmed on the air Tuesday. I counted at least 11 false claims from the president about Canada in 2025; he told two of them, by my count, during this meeting.

So, better than usual, he continued. But its worth fact-checking those two.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The falsehoods in question: Trump claimed during his televised meeting with Carney that the U.S. subsidizes Canada to the tune of maybe $200 billion a year  and that America doesnt do much business with the continental ally.

This $200 billion figure he uses to describe the trade deficit with Canada  its imaginary, Dale explained Tuesday. The trade deficit with Canada is not even close to that high. It was about $36 billion, not $200 billion, last year.

Even if you only count goods trade, ignore the services trade at which the U.S. excels, [its] about $71 billion, he continued. So, just wrong.

Trump announced steep international tariffs last month on all U.S. imports, affecting longstanding trade relationships with allies around the world, including Canada, which he has openly considered annexing as Americas 51st state several times in recent weeks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

His claim that the U.S. does only like 4% of annual business with Canada was the second-biggest point of contention for Dale, who is Canadian, and brought some proverbial receipts with him.

President Donald Trump (right) and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney (left) in the Oval Office on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Evan Vucci/Associated Press

So that 4% figure is wildly inaccurate, Dale told CNN host Brianna Keilar.

Again, about 17% of U.S. exports go to Canada, he said. I cant definitively fact-check this claim that we dont do much business with Canada, but Canada was the No. 1 buyer of U.S. exports in 2024, [and] again through March this year, the No. 3 source of U.S. imports.

Dale argued that these figures make Canada a major business and trading partner by any reasonable standard. He even expounded on the details in a CNN article, with data showing Canada bought about $440 billion in U.S. goods and services last year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Then, he concluded in writing, this was more than any other country in the world.

Watch Dales full analysis below:

Related...
Wednesday morning, U.S. Coast Guard crews from Marine Safety and Security Team Seattle rescued a man from a burning boat.

The 40-foot pleasure craft caught fire in Colvos Passage off the coast of Vashon Island.

Video shows smoke billowing off the vessel as the Coast Guard arrived to take the man ashore.

No one was hurt.

Crews from Tacoma, Gig Harbor, and West Pierce Fire helped put out the flames and prepare a tow to Point Defiance Marina.

No word on what caused the fire.
DENVER (KDVR)  The beer industry brews up a big economic impact in Colorado, according to the newly released report from Beer Serves America.

The report revealed the Colorado beer industry is responsible for more than 61,000 jobs in the state, contributes more than $13 billion to the economy and generates $1.3 billion in taxes that support local communities.

Dog-friendly bar, cafe, coworking space opens on Broadway

Credit: Getty Images

Colorado workers busy with beer

Craig Purser, president and CEO of the National Beer Wholesalers Association, said the state of Colorado is responsible for more than 2,200 jobs in the local, independent beer and beverage distribution sector.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Beer Serves America demonstrates the incredible success of the beer industry that

provides good jobs and significant economic activity in communities across the

country, Purser said in a statement.

Temporary bar to pop up at Auraria Campus in May

The Colorado beer industry is also responsible for more than 6,200 brewing jobs, nearly 19,000 retail jobs, 1,400 agriculture jobs and more than 1,500 manufacturing jobs, according to the report.

Colorado Beer industry by the numbers

Total jobs: 61,262

Wages and benefits: $4 billion

Economic output: $13.1 billion

Taxes generated $1.3 billion

Free on Your TV  New FOX31+ App for Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Beer Serves America report is released biennially by the NBWA and the Beer Institute, with the last report released in 2023.

Since the last report, the beer industry has increased by $60 billion nationally and added almost 300,000 new jobs across the country, according to the NBWA.

More information for Colorado and other states can be found in the full online 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 FOX31 Denver.
DENVER (KDVR)  A man connected to a Mexican cartel has been sentenced to 30 years in prison, according to the 17s Judicial District Attorneys Office.

Ivan Rodriguez, 32, was sentenced for three separate cases in which he was in possession of numerous types of drugs he trafficked around the region.

Douglas County Sheriffs Office seeking Highlands Ranch road rage suspect

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said at a press conference in New Mexico on Tuesday the Sinaloa cartel was targeted in the largest fentanyl bust in our nations history  a coordinated takedown spanning the five states that recovered 11.5 kilos of fentanyl, including about 3 million fentanyl-laced pills labeled as oxycodone.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rodriguez was arrested in 2022 and 2023 for the drug trafficking cases he was sentenced for, but his operation, the Sanudo-Rivera Drug Trafficking Organization, was part of a direct cartel pipeline for the distribution of fentanyl into the greater Adams County area, according to the district attorneys office.

Rodriguez was a major source of deadly fentanyl and methamphetamine in our community and acted with utter disregard for the lives destroyed by these drugs, said District Attorney Brian Mason in a press release. Thirty years in prison is an appropriate and necessary consequence for these crimes. Im grateful to our law enforcement partners for their thorough investigation into these cases.

In the first case, Thornton police arrested Rodriguez on Nov. 2, 2022, after tracking him from a hotel to store and finding 147.94 grams of methamphetamine, 112.44 grams of counterfeit Oxycodone (fentanyl), 1.39 grams of Ketamine and 13.77 grams of counterfeit Xanax during a search warrant execution, according to the DAs office. Officers found Rodriguez wearing a shirt that said drug dealer at the time of this offense.

The second and third cases happened in 2023.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

North Metro Task Force detectives in the first 2023 case intercepted a wiretap communication revealing Rodriguezs role in the trafficking operation, tying him to the Sinaloa cartel, according to the district attorneys office. Rodriguez was observed conducting a drug transaction and led officers on a high-speed chase.

FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox

Officers recovered a bag containing 1.68 kilograms of fentanyl, 2.56 kilograms of methamphetamine, a firearm, nearly $3,000 in cash and multiple cell phones from a bag he threw away during the chase.

Then, in December 2023, Rodriguez was found with nearly three pounds of methamphetamine and 21 grams of counterfeit fentanyl pills.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rodriguez pleaded guilty to multiple charges of Drug Felony 1  Possession with Intent to Distribute. He was sentenced in February to 14 years for the 2022 case and in April 16 years for each of the 2023 cases.

The 16-year sentences will run concurrently with each other but consecutively to the 14-year sentence for a total of 30 years in 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 FOX31 Denver.
(COLORADO)  On Monday, May 5, the Colorado Supreme Court ruled in a case out of El Paso County that questioned whether or not an individuals suicidal intent could be relevant to the defendants distribution of drugs and linked to the purchasers proximate cause of death.

The question stems from an August 2023 case where a man, Matthew Bowen, bought pills containing fentanyl from Patrick L. Beverly II. In the evening hours of Aug. 26, 2023, Bowens body was found in his car with his cellphone in his lap and a blue pill partially melted on a piece of foil. Police believed the pill to be counterfeit oxycodone containing fentanyl.

An autopsy found that Bowen had died as a result of fentanyl intoxication and that the intoxication was with lethal intent. A coroner later determined that Bowen had died of suicide. According to court documents, Bowen had sent a message to his girlfriend and had a history of self-harm.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Beverly had sold Bowen $90 worth of fentanyl pills the day of Bowens death, according to court documents. Beverly was charged with one count of distributing less than four grams of fentanyl, a level one drug felony  an offense that enhances the sentence associated with certain drug distribution charges if the criminal conduct was the proximate cause of death of another person who used or consumed the drugs.

A level one drug felony carries a range of eight to 32 years in prison. The court argued that Bowens death was caused by a chain of events started by the distribution of fentanyl by Beverly.

In the trial, the prosecution argued that the intent of taking fentanyl is irrelevant to determining proximate cause. According to court documents, Beverly responded that a purchasers conscious choice to greatly increase their risk of death by taking a large quantity of fentanyl all at once is not a foreseeable consequence of fentanyl distribution.

The court ruled that jurors could consider a purchasers suicidability in a 5-2 vote, with Justice Boatright and Justice Berkenkotter dissenting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Beverlys next status hearing is set for Tuesday, May 13.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. The 988 suicide and crisis lifeline can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone, chat or text. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.

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.
Columbia University is laying off nearly 180 staffers who are working at the university on federal funding that has been pulled by President Donald Trump.

The university on Tuesday cited the Trump administration's cuts, saying the elimination of the funding has put "intense" strain on its research goals.

Earlier this year, Trump ordered $400 million in funding cuts at the school. Columbia is still trying to restore its funding through the courts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Approximately 20 percent of those let go on Tuesday are funded in some way by the eliminated grants, according to the university.

In response to the strain caused by the cuts, Columbia has established a "Research Stabilization Fund" to help shield it from "future funding risks."

A pro-Palestine demonstration just outside Columbia Universitys campus. The university had to cut nearly 180 people in the wake of Donald Trumps administration pulling $400 million in federal funding from the school (AP)

"This is a deeply challenging time across all higher education, and we are attempting to navigate through tremendous ambiguity with precision, which will be imperfect at times," the university said in its statement.

The US draws scientists from all over the world in part because the federal government consistently has made funding research a serious priority.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump's cuts to higher education have ostensibly been focused on universities where alleged acts of antisemitism occurred. The Trump administration has conflated student support for Palestinians, who are currently the target of a genocide by the Israeli government, with antisemitism.

In 2023, the Republican controlled House of Representatives passed a resolution that equates antizionism with antisemitism, a move that was criticized at the time as an effort to chill speech critical of Israel.

Ninety-two Democrats abstained their voting on the resolution by voting "present."

Since Trump took office, he has threatened to revoke federal funds for campuses that allow "illegal protests," though he was vague as to what qualifies as a legal protest.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Universities must comply with all federal antidiscrimination laws if they are going to receive federal funding. For too long, Columbia has abandoned that obligation to Jewish students studying on its campus, Education Secretary Linda McMahon said in a statement on March 7.

Columbia acknowledged concerns about antisemitism on its campus: A university task force said last summer that Jews and Israelis at the school were allegedly ostracized from student groups, humiliated in classrooms and subjected to verbal abuse amid the spring demonstrations.

As a precondition for restoring funding, federal officials demanded that the university place its Middle Eastern, South Asian and African Studies Department under academic receivership for a minimum of five years.

They also told the university to ban masks on campus, adopt a new definition of antisemitism, abolish its current process for disciplining students and deliver a plan to reform undergraduate admissions, international recruiting, and graduate admissions practices.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The university ultimately buckled to the Trump administration, agreeing to some of its demands in March. The university agreed it would hire new campus police officers and that it would force protesters wearing masks to present a university ID when questioned.

In addition to pulling the universitys funding, the Trump administration also arrested a Columbia student who acted as an advocate for Palestinian rights.

The administration claimed in April that Mahmoud Khalil, the student, poses adverse foreign policy consequences for the U.S. A judge ruled in April that Trump has the authority to deport Khalil for his pro-Palestinian advocacy.

The near future may require more belt-tightening at Columbia. The university said in its statement that in the "coming weeks and months," it will have to take further action to "preserve our financial flexibility and allow us to invest in areas that drive us forward."

That, according to the university, means "running lighter footprints of research infrastructure in some areas and, in others, maintaining a level of research continuity as we pursue alternate funding."
May 7 (UPI) -- Columbia University announced Tuesday it will terminate about 180 researchers as the college negotiates with the Trump administration over $400 million in federal funding that was pulled by President Donald Trump.

"Nearly 180 of our colleagues who have been working, in whole or in part, on impacted federal grants, will receive notices of non-renewal or termination," wrote Columbia's Acting President Claire Shipman in a press release Tuesday.

Shipman further explained the firings affect approximately 20% of Columbia researchers funded by canceled grants.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The layoffs were made amid "a two-pronged effort related to grants terminated by the federal government," as Shipman said.

"The first prong focuses on our continued efforts to restore our partnerships with government agencies that support critical research," and the second "is to take action to adjust, and in some cases reduce, expenditures based on current financial realities."

The Trump administration canceled $400 million in federal funding to the university in March upon its determination that hadn't responded properly to anti-Semitism on campus.

The stoppage of federal funding has paused several projects at the Columbia University Irving Medical Center and the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, as well as at other affiliated organizations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Shipman said Columbia will be "running lighter footprints of research infrastructure in some areas" as the campus administration seeks "alternate funding sources."

"In the coming weeks and months, we will need to continue to take actions that preserve our financial flexibility and allow us to invest in areas that drive us forward," she said. "This is a deeply challenging time across all higher education."

This means in some schools and departments have reduced or stopped activity but remain prepared to reestablish capabilities if support is restored."

The firings layoffs a list of demands sent by the White House in March as preconditions for consideration of restoration of federal funds, which also includes the placement of the Middle Eastern, South Asian and African studies department under academic receivership and a ban on masks worn except for religious or health reasons, among others.
LISBON, Ohio (WKBN)  A Columbiana man entered a plea in his OVI case before it was set to go to trial on Wednesday.

Court records state that Nathaniel Joy entered a plea agreement in the case last Tuesday.

According to Columbiana Municipal Court records, Joy was found guilty of OVI and reasonable control, while another OVI charge was dismissed. He was sentenced to a one-year license suspension with limited driving privileges, probation and to take a 3-day driver intervention course, as well as pay fines.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Police arrested Joy on Jan. 26 after a crash in Salem.

A Salem police report states that the driver was discovered unconscious and that officers had to put the vehicle in park before shutting it off  and that the only reason the vehicle was stopped was because the unconscious drivers foot was on the brake.

The driver, identified as Joy, was taken to the Salem Police Department, where he was given a breath test that resulted in a .226% BAC, over the legal driving limit.

Laurel Stone 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.
KazMunayGas, PetroVietnam explore new frontiers in energy co-op

Photo: KazMunayGas

KazMunayGas Chairman Askhat Khassenov met with Nguyen Tien Bao, President of Vietnams PetroVietnam Exploration Production Corp (PVEP), to discuss enhancing cooperation and attracting investments. They explored opportunities for joint oil and gas projects, including geological exploration and chemical ventures. KazMunayGas proposed involving its subsidiaries in PVEPs projects, focusing on drilling, well intervention, and capital repairs. The meeting also included talks on renewable energy cooperation. Both parties emphasized the potential for strengthening bilateral ties through joint initiatives. This follows a prior agreement signed between KazMunayGas and PetroVietnam on geological exploration.

Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register
Full 2025 Results

Sort Results Issue 2 School Issues Columbus City Council Columbus school board Athens County Coshocton County Crawford County Delaware County Fairfield County Fayette County Franklin County Guernsey County Hardin County Hocking County Knox County Licking County Madison County Marion County Morgan County Morrow County Noble County Perry County Pickaway County Pike County Ross County Union County

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  There are 10 candidates vying for the Columbus Board of Education, and voters decided Tuesday which six are still in the running.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Columbus Education PAC, which featured Patrick Katzenmeyer, Jermaine Kennedy and Antionette Miranda, led the primary by far. Each PAC candidate got twice as many votes as candidates who are not in the PAC. The trio is running jointly and received a number of endorsements, including the Franklin County Democratic Party and OAPSE/AFSCME, the Ohio public school employees union.

The other three candidates who appear likely to advance are Mounir Lynch, Janeece Keyes and Kimberly Mason, with more than 99% of the precincts counted. Liz Caslin-Turner received the next-highest number of votes, but she was still several hundred votes behind Keyes and Mason.

The remaining six candidates who pass Tuesdays primary advance to the November election, competing for three school board vacancies. All three seats that are up for election do not have an incumbent, with board members Christina Vera, Ramona Reyes and board President Michael Cole all opting not to seek reelection.

The job they are competing for is a big one. The board is still coming off a three-day teachers strike over union contract negotiations that left 50,000 students to start the 2022-2023 school year virtually. The contract that led to the strike is now expiring, and the board of education is currently negotiating with the teachers union for a new contract.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In just this past year, the district handled controversial school closures, leaked memos and audio recordings, two censures of board member Brandon Simmons and a lawsuit from the state of Ohio over the district no longer busing private school students who live within district boundaries.

The vote also comes as the district faces funding uncertainty in the state budget. Columbus City Schools leadership has testified at state hearings about a possible loss of more than $45 million in the next two years under the current Ohio budget proposal. New board candidates may need to help navigate the funding issue and other emerging legislative changes.

Here are the candidates who hoped to advance to the November election, with those in bold anticipated to advance:

Liz Caslin-Turner, regional director for Sylvan Learning Centers

Teresa Hannah, owner and founder of STEPP Forward LLC, an educational consulting firm

Patrick Katzenmeyer,* senior project manager at Pizzuti Companies real estate firm

Jermaine Kennedy,* chief program officer at the Boys & Girls Club

Janeece Keyes, director of provider experience at the Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation

Karrie Lumpkin, longtime administrative professional at the Ohio Attorney Generals Office

Mounir Lynch, public health educator

Kimberly Mason, higher education partnership manager with the Ohio Bankers League

Antionette Miranda,* OSU professor and school psychologist

Julie Trabold, financial advisor

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

*indicates they are a member of the Columbus Education PAC, a trio of candidates running together.

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.
Rep. Susan DuBose, R-Hoover, speaks to the House Education Policy Committee while holding a binder that reads "Religious Release Act" on March 19, 2025, at the Alabama State House in Montgomery, Alabama. The Senate version of the legislation was effectively killed on Wednesday in the House State Government Committee. (Anna Barrett/Alabama Reflector)

A bill that would require local school boards to adopt policies on extending academic credit for religious instruction outside the classroom failed an Alabama House committee on Wednesday.

SB 278, sponsored by Sen. Shay Shelnutt, R-Trussville, is identical to HB 342, sponsored by Rep. Susan DuBose, R-Hoover, that failed the House Education Policy Committee on April 2. DuBose presented the legislation to the House State Government Committee.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This bill simply allows public school students to enrich their school opportunities with an optional religious class. The bill simply requires our school districts to create a policy that allows students to attend an off campus religious class during the school day, DuBose said.

The Senate passed the legislation 25-6 on April 22 after the Senate Education Policy Committee approved it with one no vote.The Legislature passed a law in 2019 that allows school boards to adopt a policy on released time religious instruction (RTRI). The 2025 legislation would mandate such policies.

But House members have been far more skeptical about the legislation, citing pushback from school superintendents.

Sunnie Cotton, the director of LifeWise Academy in Alabama and a proponent of the legislation, called it a parental rights bill.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This bill strengthens parental rights and protects religious freedom while giving parents the choice to provide religious instruction for their children during the school day, Cotton said.

According to LifeWises sample curriculum, the organization teaches the Christian belief that God created all things good to a list of virtues that the nonprofit describes as LifeWise qualities. Cotton said the organization is operating in about 600 schools nationwide and is prepared to launch over 900 programs this year.

DuBose claimed 4,500 Alabama parents have signed a petition in support of the legislation. DuBose has not presented the petition when requested Wednesday.

Ryan Hollingsworth, executive director of the State Superintendents Association, has been a consistent opponent of the legislation. Hollingsworth said Wednesday he is not convinced that the petition has been signed by Alabama parents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I dont believe those are verified as being the parents of Alabama students in public schools if they are, Hollingsworth said. Even if they are, we have about 725,000 students, so thats about a half of 1% of folks that have signed it.

He said the bill is lacking key definitions of religious instruction, core instruction and sponsoring entity.

We have 1,080 hours in the school year to cover everything the state board requires, Hollingsworth said. Theres 8,760 hours in the calendar year. That means the parent has the responsibility of the child about 88% of the time.

Scott Suttle, St. Clair County Board of Education president and Alabama Association of School Boards (AASB) president-elect, echoed similar concerns. He said the legislation is government overreach in schools.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Our local leaders have been abundantly clear that we dont want another overreach into our school systems, Suttle said. It works as it is. Lets please leave it as it is.

Sally Smith, executive director of the AASB, said after the bill failed that she is thankful the committee listened to school board leaders.

We are pleased with the committee outcome. We think that the law as it is is working fine, she said in an interview after the meeting.

Jennifer Riggs, a mother from Huntsville, brought her son to the meeting, like she did at the Senate Education Policy Committee public hearing on April 15. She said the program has helped her children learn about the Bible in public schools since they cannot afford to send their four children to private school.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Five days per week, seven hours per day, and in public school, the Bible is not being taught. We believe a release time for religious instruction program would bridge that gap, she said. I believe this is legislation that upholds parental rights by allowing us to choose Bible education for our children without having to incur the financial burdens of private school.

Rep. Marcus Paramore, R-Troy, who also serves on the House Education Policy Committee, said he would not support the legislation because of its failure in the first committee.

So here we are in another committee trying to get a bill that was voted down, back out and on the floor in a different format, he said. I just want to make some comments and make it clear for what Mr. Hollingsworth said earlier this has already been before a body in this house once this year, and here we are again.

The committee had a tie vote on the legislation 5-5 with Paramore; Rep. Russell Bedsole, R-Alabaster; Mike Kirkland, R-Scottsboro; Rep. Barbra Boyd, D-Anniston; and Rep. Marilyn Lands, D-Huntsville, opposing it. In order for the legislation to receive final approval from the House, a House committee would have to approve the legislation on May 14, the final day of the 2025 session.



SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE

This story was updated May 8 at 11:08 a.m. to correct the final vote on the legislation.
TEXARKANA, Texas (KTAL/KSHV)  It has been a year since the tragic death of James JR Wooten, who was killed in an apparent hit-and-run while riding his motorcycle. On Sunday (May 4th) dozens of his loved ones gathered at Harley-Davidson Texarkana to keep his memory alive.

He always had a smile on his face most of the time. He was always happy go lucky and ready to help anybody he could, says Jamess mother, Jeanne, Hed give the shirt off his back to anybody that needed it, didnt have much money, but hed give it away.

That charitable heart is a legacy his family is trying to continue, looking to give back to the students at his alma mater, Liberty-Eylau High School.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The welding class has turned his booth that he worked in into a memorial, says Jeanne.

Texarkana invites families to the grand reveal of renovated Swanger Complex

They have started a scholarship in his name, a total of $26,000 for welding and automotive students. The money was fundraised throughout the year, and they plan to continue to find ways to bring the community together for the cause.

JR was really into cars and motorcycles, so well have like a show and shine. Well do burgers for the community, another poker run, said Michael Garza with Harley-Davidson Texarkana, So theres a lot of ways that people could get involved and support.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At the end of the night, the group rode out together in a way that James would have appreciated. All of his friends and family traveled together to meet at his gravesite to hold a candlelight vigil, honoring the young man who left a big impact on the lives he touched.

The family says there is a plaque inside Harley-Davidson that includes a QR code that links to all the ways people can donate besides upcoming events.

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.
GARDNER, Kan.  While residents at Aspen Place are scrambling after their complex was condemned on Tuesday, their community was also scrambling to get them some help.

The complex was shut down due to safety concerns on Tuesday morning, leaving residents a mere 48 hours to vacate their homes.

Downtown Kansas City business owners issuing a warning: This isnt a political issueits a safety issue

I cant imagine that, said Melissa Prins. Its completely heartbreaking to think of all those families and they have all walks of life there. They have single parents; they have elderly families. Its just flabbergasting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Prins is the director of the Hope Market, a food pantry in Gardner. Shes leading the charge on helping residents, and getting resources together from other nonprofits and churches.

Were going to try and get all of our eggs in one basket to see how we can best help everyone, she said. Folks are eager to help. Weve had people walking in off the street going, Hey, I heard that this is a need. How can we help? said Joey Lang, lead pastor of Grace Baptist Church. It makes you proud to be part of Gardner.

Community leaders along with city officials and law enforcement gathered at Grace Baptist Church, collaborating on what everyone could bring to the table.

Whether thats moving boxes, whether thats help moving, where theres help getting here, we want to make sure that there is a just a steady flood of resources available to help these people land where they need to land, Lang said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The parking lot was packed at the church before the 6:30 meeting on Tuesday. More than 100 people came to see how they could help their neighbors and come up with a game plan to present to residents on Wednesday evening.

During the meeting, two organizations pledged $30,000 each to help put residents up at hotels for the next several days.

Prins and Lang both say the generosity is just part of living in Gardner.

Thats the best thing about Gardner; is everybody just comes together here to help everyone, Prins said. So, I know we can do something great for them.

Lang said that the community wont let them go through this by themselves.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you can find a highlight here in the tragedy, it is the love these people are going to feel from their community thats going to come together and just acknowledge them, see them, and not let them walk this road alone, Lang said.

While some in the meeting offered hotel rooms, vans, moving boxes and more, Nick Blessing with the Kansas Legal Service was offering legal help.

This shouldnt have gotten to this point, and I think accountability is necessary here. All of them are being are being removed from this property, Blessing said. And thats and I think there are claims that arise out of just that.

Kansas dispatcher commended for outstanding job handling crash that killed 8

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Kansas Legal Service provides legal services free of charge to low-income clients.

From what I understand, the water system there has not been compliant with code for a long time, Blessing told FOX4. Anybody who started renting their wall, it was in this condition. Aspen Place failed to deliver possession of that rental units in compliance with the law, which means that arguably all or a portion of the rent that those tenants have paid while living there, while its in that condition, they have a claim for that to be paid back.

Those looking to help residents at Aspen Place should reach out to Melissa at the Hope Market, or can donate through Hope Market 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 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
EAU CLAIRE  A judge has ordered a competency hearing in the case of a man who brought a gun with him onto school property, despite having been ordered to stay away.

Andrey Sichuga, 32, Eau Claire, is charged with possession of a firearm on the grounds of a school, resisting an officer and disorderly conduct. The firearms charge is a Class I felony.

During Sichugas preliminary hearing on Tuesday, Sichugas attorney questioned whether he was competent to understand the charges and assist in his own defense, critical elements for a defendant. The court found there is probable cause to have doubts and ordered an examination.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the criminal complaint, Sichuga went to an Eau Claire elementary school last month. He had previously been told by the school district not to come onto any campus property.

Staff recognized Sichuga and refused him entry into the building, which was placed on a soft lockdown. Once students who were at recess were brought back inside, no one was allowed in or out. Classes continued normally.

Police arrived as Sichuga was leaving. He initially thought the officer stopped him for running a stop sign. When the officer asked for his license he opened the vehicles center console, in which he had a handgun.

That prompted the officer to warn Sichuga not to reach for the console again and order him out of the vehicle. Sichuga asked why multiple times and would not remove his seatbelt and exit the vehicle. Officers eventually had to open the door, reach in and unfasten the seat belt and pull him out.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sichuga said he had forgotten about being ordered to stay off district property. He wanted to speak with the principal about a job he had applied for in 2024 but did not receive, he explained. But he became defensive and evasive when asked about the gun.

Sichuga has not yet had an arraignment, and thus has not entered a plea. Court records show a $10,000 bond for his pretrial release, but give no indication it has been posted. He was listed on the Eau Claire County Jails inmate roster as of Tuesday.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) Mothers Day weekend will be special for a mother who is graduating from the University of South Florida alongside her son.

Tammy Moscato, a mother of two, earned her masters in education from USF and will be graduating alongside her youngest son, Bennett, who will receive a bachelors degree in psychology.

Tammy, a student support coordinator at USF, said she is proud to share the spotlight with him and to complete this milestone together.

Credit: University of South Florida Credit: University of South Florida Credit: University of South Florida

After graduating from USF, Bennett will be heading to a Massachusetts hospital for a two-year fellowship that is affiliated with Harvard University.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tammys oldest son, Miles, also graduated from USF in 2024, USF said.

More than 7,700 graduates will receive their degrees alongside Tammy and Bennett.

USF said the youngest graduate, at 18, is receiving a bachelors degree in psychology, while the most experienced graduate this spring, who is 69, is receiving a doctoral degree in history, USF said.

Graduation at USF begins on Thursday, May 8, at 1:30 p.m. and will end on Sunday, May 11, at 1:30 p.m.

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.
MOUNTAIN CITY, Tenn. (WJHL)Mountain City residents entered City Hall on Tuesday evening to tell the Board of Mayor and Aldermen how strongly they opposed the potential bitcoin mine.

Our elected officials owe it to the residents to be in full disclosure concerning the possible CleanSpark deal, one resident told the board.

Washington County fought to remove CleanSpark from Limestone, Tennessee, because of these very dangers, another resident said. Mountain City must not ignore them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mountain City resident Amelia Lopez Saltarelli said the potential mine would drive away long-time residents.

Were not going to put all this money we saved up into a town we wanted to live in, she said. And if theyre going to treat us like this, well find another small little town.

A large concern brought up by city residents was the potential noise the mine would bring in.

The particular class of sound that Bitcoin mines create is the same category as sound weaponry used for things like crowd control, torture and war, one concerned citizen said.

Members of the BMA and Mountain Electrical Cooperative General Manager Roger Metcalf went on a tour of a facility managed by CleanSpark. They claim the facility would not produce that amount of noise.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They [were] running at full speed practically, and there was no noise coming from that, Metcalf said. There was more noise coming from the HVAC system.

Im willing to put my reputation on the line as to when I went down there, there is not going to be a noise problem, Mountain City Mayor Jerry Jordan said.

Following public comment, Mayor Jordan announced that the vote scheduled for May 22 would be moved. Metcalf said he recommended this decision.

I want the community to feel comfortable with it, Metcalf said. I dont want to bring anything in here that the community is going to be upset or irate about.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Saltarelli said this announcement gave her a slight sense of ease.

That part is encouraging, she said. Frankly, I hope that CleanSpark listens and understands and decides during that time to go somewhere else.

Jordan did not give a date as to when the vote would take place. He added that they hope to take a group to the facility they toured so they are able to see it for themselves.

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.
VATICAN CITY (NewsNation)  Cardinals secluded behind the walls of the Vatican sent up black smoke on Wednesday, signaling a pope had not yet been elected.

Wednesday marked the start of a conclave to elect the 267th pope.

A Vatican official called out extra omnes, and the door to the Sistine Chapel shut just before 11 a.m. CT. The Latin expression means all out and signals all those who arent eligible to vote for a new pope to leave the Sistine Chapel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The order, delivered Wednesday by Archbishop Diego Ravelli, allows the beginning of voting to elect the next pontiff to follow Pope Francis.

Who are the contenders to be the next pope?

A group of 133 cardinals from 70 countries are locked inside the Sistine Chapel, where they will vote in secret, a process designed to be contemplative and free from outside communication. Cellphones are surrendered, and airwaves around the Vatican are jammed to prevent any communication with the outside world until a new leader is chosen for the 1.4 billion-member Roman Catholic Church.

Two by two, the cardinals entered the Sistine Chapel chanting the meditative Litany of the Saints as Swiss Guards stood at attention. The hymn implores the saints to help the cardinals find a new leader of the 1.4 billion-strong Catholic Church. They bowed before the altar and took their places before taking an oath of secrecy and shutting the Sistine Chapel doors to start the conclave.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Though the cardinals arent required to vote on the first day, they typically do. If no pope is elected in the initial round, the Vatican said black smoke would rise from the Sistine Chapel chimney at around 7 p.m. local time.

The cardinals will then retire for the night and resume voting Thursday morning. They can hold up to two ballots in the morning and two in the afternoon until one candidate receives the required two-thirds majority.

Cardinals urged to elect new pope who seeks unity

The cardinals began the centuries-old ritual to select a successor to Pope Francis, who died last month at the age of 88, by celebrating a morning Mass.

During the Mass, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals, urged his peers to elect a pope who values unity and can set aside every personal consideration, The Associated Press reported. He said the world today needs a leader who can awaken consciences.

Challenges facing a new pope

The next pontiff will face several challenges, including continuing Francis progressive legacy or pivoting toward a path to unify a church that became more polarized during his pontificate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One of the key topics raised Monday was the strong concern over divisions within the church, a Vatican spokesperson told Reuters. This may refer to contentious issues such as Pope Francis decision to permit blessings for same-sex couples and to initiate discussions about the role of women in the church.

The clergy sex abuse scandal has also hung over preconclave discussions.

Conclave: Unlocking the Mystery, a NewsNation special report

How long can the conclave take?

Some cardinals have expressed its in their best interest for the process to move as swiftly as possible.

For the past century, finding a pope has taken between three and eight ballots. John Paul I, who reigned for 33 days in 1978, was elected on the third ballot. His successor, John Paul II, needed eight.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Francis conclave was notably quick, lasting around 24 hours; he was elected on the fifth in 2013.

Pope Benedicts conclave in 2005 took two days. Since 1900, the longest conclave has lasted five days, providing some context for what onlookers might expect in the coming days.

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 papal conclave begins May 7, starting the process of electing the next pope. Over 100 Roman Catholic cardinals, including one from Ohio, will gather in the Sistine Chapel and begin the secretive voting process.

While the late Pope Francis was elected in just one day, the process can take months or even years before the College of Cardinals selects a new pontiff. Until then, the public keeps watch of smoke rising over the Vatican, which signals whether a new pope is elected. Black smoke indicates that voting is still in process, USA TODAY reports, while white smoke means the new leader of the Catholic church has been chosen and has accepted his role.

Here's how to tune into the 2025 conclave, including TV networks and live streaming options, and which Ohio native is part of the voting process.

Who is the new pope? Watch USA TODAY livestream

USA TODAY will stream coverage of the conclave on its YouTube channel, available here or below. The first day's livestream is scheduled to run from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET on Wednesday, May 7.

Vatican News livestream on YouTube

Vatican News, the official news agency of Vatican City, is managing a livestream of St. Peter's Square on its YouTube channel.

Radio Vaticana, the official radio station of Vatican City, will also be providing live updates of the conclave.

Ohio Cardinal Daniel Nicholas DiNardo among cardinal electors

Cardinal Daniel Nicholas DiNardo of Steubenville, Ohio

One of just 10 American cardinal electors, Ohio native Cardinal Daniel Nicholas DiNardo will participate in the process to elect the next pope. DiNardo, 75, is a native of Steubenville, about 150 miles east of Columbus.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A cardinal elector is a voting member of the College of Cardinals, the church's most senior officials, comprised of bishops and Vatican representatives from around the world and hand-picked by the pope to serve the Catholic Church. Only cardinal electors under the age of 80 can vote in a conclave.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Ohio cardinal voting for next pope. How to watch, stream papal conclave
Kazakhstan, China forge ahead with bold expansion of freight and trade routes

Photo: Kazakhstan Railways

A working meeting was held in Astana, Kazakhstan, between Kazakhstan Railways and a Chinese delegation led by Yao Hongxuan, Director of External Relations for Shaanxi Province. The discussion focused on joint international infrastructure projects, particularly transit routes and freight flow management. Key topics included the synergy of trade and logistics between Xi'an and Almaty and the launch of a new logistics terminal in Almaty, set to become Kazakhstans largest import hub. The terminal, covering 9.8 hectares with a capacity of 57,000 TEU annually, aims to optimize processes and enhance trade and economic ties between Kazakhstan and China.

Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register
The News

The process to choose a new pope will extend into a second day, after cardinals gathered today at the Sistine Chapel failed to elect a new leader for the worlds 1.4 billion Catholics.

There is no clear frontrunner to succeed Pope Francis, but his legacy looms large, not least because he appointed the vast majority of the electorate: An Italian and a Filipino are among the names most often mentioned as possible future pontiffs.

The 133 cardinals eligible to vote can hold up to four rounds of voting on subsequent days; no conclave in the past nearly 200 years has taken more than four days.

The cardinals will eschew digital technology to avoid outside influence, while mobile-signal jammers have been installed and the halls have been swept for bugs to combat leaks and hacks.
On Wednesday, May 7, cardinals from around the world will begin the process of choosing a new pope

There are 133 cardinals eligible to cast a vote for the new pope  and in order to be chosen as Pope Francis' successor, a candidate needs to have two-thirds of the vote

Although the conclave is notoriously secretive, the public will know when a new pope has been chosen when the chimney above the Vatican's Sistine Chapel billows white smoke

The conclave to pick a new pope has officially begun.

On Wednesday, May 7, over a hundred cardinals from around the world sequestered together to begin the process of choosing a new pope. The conclave began over two weeks after Pope Francis died on Monday, April 21, at age 88.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There are 133 cardinals eligible to cast a vote  the College of Cardinals is much larger, but only cardinals under the age of 80 can vote  for the new pope, including 108 Cardinals appointed by Francis himself. As the conclave takes place, the Vatican's Sistine Chapel will remain closed to visitors.

Although the secretive election plays out behind closed doors, the public will know when a new pope has been chosen when the chimney above the Vatican's Sistine Chapel billows white smoke  and if they see black smoke instead, well, that just means the voting will continue.



Eric VANDEVILLE/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Cardinals meeting for the conclave that began in Rose on April 18, 2005 Cardinals meeting for the conclave that began in Rose on April 18, 2005

Related: Could an American Be the Next Pope? Here's Who Experts Say Might be the Top Contenders

Although some historical conclaves have taken as long as three years, most elections in modern church history have only lasted a few days  and in the days before this current conclave began, one cardinal predicted that the public likely won't have to wait too long for a decision to be made.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I think there is a consensus," Cardinal Gregorio Rosa Chavez of El Salvador, who at 82 cannot vote himself but has been at the Vatican as cardinals discussed candidates before being sequestered, told ABC News.

"The vision is very clear [for] what kind of pope we need in the church and for the world," he added. "That is why I think the conclave will be very short, two or three days."

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.



In the hours after Francis died, observers and news outlets began publishing lists of the men who are seen as top contenders, including Cardinal Luis Tagle of the Philippines, Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Cardinal Robert Sarah of Guinea and France's Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline, among others.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some experts have speculated that the late pope's successor may share in his more progressive ideals for the church, but Bill Cavanaugh, an American Catholic theologian and professor of Catholic studies at DePaul University, previously told PEOPLE that "anything can happen."

"There's a lot of speculation," he said. "Will it be back to another European pope, or will it be another pope from the 'Global South,' from Asia, from Africa? We just don't know."

MAURIX/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Cardinals in the Sistine Chapel for the conclave on March 12, 2013 in Vatican. Cardinals in the Sistine Chapel for the conclave on March 12, 2013 in Vatican.

Kathleen Sprows Cummings, a nationally recognized expert on Francis as well as a professor of American Studies and History at the University of Notre Dame, also noted that those who might be seen as having a good chance at becoming pope might not be elected.

"It could be somebody else," Cummings says, citing, as an example, the pope who preceded Francis, Benedict XVI. He wasnt a front-runner, but he was elected, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Related: What Did Conclave Get Right and Wrong About Picking the New Pope? Fact-Checking the Oscar-Winning Movie

Franco Origlia/Getty Pope Francis delivered an Easter blessing just hours before his death

Following Francis' death, his official papal apartments, called the Apostolic Palace, were sealed  a moment made famous by the Oscar-winning 2024 film Conclave starring Ralph Fiennes, which delves into the secretive conclave process.

However, Francis actually resided in a smaller residence, the Casa Santa Marta, which was also sealed in accordance with tradition. The Apostolic Palace will remain sealed off until the conclave has concluded.



Read the original article on People
A new pope could be named within a matter of hours, after more than 100 Catholic cardinals gathered inside the Vatican on Wednesday to elect the next pontiff, following the death of Pope Francis in April.

The conclave includes 133 cardinals who are currently inside the Sistine Chapel, which Michelangelo famously painted in the early 16th century. Before voting commenced, the cardinals made several prayers and sang Veni, Creator Spiritus, a hymn that is more than 1,100 years old.

While the 267th pope could be named on Wednesday, the process could also stretch into the back half of the week; if a successor has not been chosen after three days, the cardinals will take a 24-hour break. That has not happened since it took five days to elect Pope Pius XI in 1922; Pope Francis was elected after two days of voting in 2013.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The faithful who have gathered in Vatican City will be on the lookout for white smoke to emerge from the chimney above the Sistine Chapel, signifying the next Bishop of Rome has been elected.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin is presiding over the Conclave. The 70-year-old Italian, according to The New York Times, asked God to give to your servants the spirit of intelligence, of truth, of peace, that they may strive to know your will, and serve you with total dedication during the voting process.

Parolin, according to the betting markets, is the favorite to replace Francis, who was 88 years old when he passed away last month. Luis Antonio Tagle, a Filipino prelate, is also believed to have a good shot of becoming the next pope; he would be the first Filipino pope in the churchs history.

You can watch a livestream from the Associated Press in the embedded video above. Alternatively, CBS News, Fox News, NBC News and ABC News are also hosting live coverage with commentary.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In other pope-related news, President Trump posted an artificial intelligence-generated picture of himself donning papal attire last week  a move that was criticized by Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York. Dolan said the picture was not good and that he hoped the president had nothing to do with it. The president shrugged off criticism of the picture this week, however, saying, The Catholics loved it and that his wife Melania Trump found it to be cute.

The post Conclave to Pick Next Pope Begins at Vatican: How to Watch appeared first on TheWrap.
Cardinals are locking themselves away to kick off the centuries-old conclave and begin choosing Pope Francis' successor.

In an unexpected twist, some cardinals are reportedly looking to the 2024 film "Conclave" for a crash course on the centuries-old tradition. They are reportedly using the movie as a guide to navigate the secretive proceedings.

This historic gathering officially began on May 7, just over two weeks after the death of Pope Francis at age 88.

Pope Francis' Successor Imminent As Cardinals Begin Voting

ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

The Vatican officially entered conclave mode on Wednesday, sealing off the Sistine Chapel as 133 eligible cardinals began the process of selecting the next Pope.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Only cardinals under the age of 80 are allowed to vote, even though the total College of Cardinals is larger. Of the 133 eligible to cast a ballot, 108 were appointed by the late Pope Francis himself.

While papal elections in the past have occasionally dragged on, some for months or even years, recent conclaves have typically wrapped up within a few days. And many inside the Vatican believe this round will be no different.

PEOPLE reports that Cardinal Gregorio Rosa Chavez, who is attending the pre-conclave discussions but cannot vote, shares that the cardinals seem aligned on what kind of leader the church needs now.

The 82-year-old explains, "The vision is very clear [for] what kind of Pope we need in the church and for the world. That is why I think the conclave will be very short, two or three days."

Vatican Awaits White Smoke As Cardinals Cast Votes

Mirrorpix / MEGA

While the voting process for the next Pope is kept entirely under wraps, the public will know the outcome the moment white smoke rises from the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel. On the other hand, black smoke means the cardinals are still deliberating.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Following Pope Francis' death, the focus quickly shifted to who might take his place. Within hours, reports surfaced naming several frontrunners, including Cardinal Luis Tagle of the Philippines, Italy's Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Guinea's Cardinal Robert Sarah, and Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline from France.

Some believe the next Pope might continue Francis' progressive vision for the Catholic Church, but experts caution against assuming too much.

Catholic scholar Bill Cavanaugh noted the uncertainty surrounding the outcome. "There's a lot of speculation. Will it be back to another European pope, or will it be another pope from the 'Global South,' from Asia, from Africa? We just don't know," he stated.

Real-Life Cardinals Turn To Hollywood Movie For Help Picking The Next Pope

As Catholic cardinals from around the world gather in Rome to select a new pope, some have turned to an unexpected source for guidance: a movie. A cleric in the conclave admitted to POLITICO that the 2024 film "Conclave" has become an unofficial training manual for the highly secretive papal election process.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Some have watched it in the cinema," they revealed. This is especially notable because some of the voting cardinals are experiencing their first conclave. For many, the inner workings of Vatican politics are unfamiliar territory, making the film a useful, if unconventional, crash course.

Edward Berger directed the film, and stars Ralph Fiennes as Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, the dean tasked with keeping order during a chaotic and politically charged papal selection.

The Former Pope Reportedly Died From Stroke And Heart Failure

KCS Presse / MEGA

ICYMI, the late Pope passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, and just hours later, the Vatican confirmed his cause of death, a stroke and irreversible heart failure.

The Blast reported that Vatican doctor Andrea Arcangeli stated that Francis had slipped into a coma before dying early Monday morning at the Vatican City.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

His passing was a shock, especially after he appeared in public the day before, briefly meeting with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance on Easter Sunday.

By his final wishes, the Vatican revealed that the late Pope asked for a modest burial at the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome. His tomb would bear no design, just the name "Franciscus" carved into the stone.

The Vatican Announced Pope Francis' Death With An Emotional Tribute

Stefano Costantino / MEGA

The Vatican confirmed the death of the Pope in a solemn public announcement delivered by Cardinal Farrell. The Cardinal addressed the world, stating, "Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis."

He shared that the Pope passed away at 7:35 a.m. local time, describing it as the moment "the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Farrell spoke of the Pope's lifelong dedication to his faith and praised him for prioritizing the "poorest and most marginalized." The Cardinal closed the statement by calling Francis "a true disciple of the Lord Jesus."

Until that white smoke appears, all eyes remain on the chimney for confirmation of Pope Francis' successor!
VATICAN CITY (AP)  A change in popes  through death or resignation  is a complicated process, with centuries-old rituals involving the transition in leadership for both the spiritual head of the global Catholic Church and the Vaticans head of state.

These are the need-to-know terms  some of them in Latin  to help make sense of news in the coming days:

Who is in the College of Cardinals?

There are 252 cardinals worldwide, and as a body, they are in charge of the Holy Sees affairs between popes, albeit with limits. Of them, 135 are cardinal electors, who gather in the Vatican to choose the new pope. Only 133 are participating in this conclave because two are sick. For centuries, they have chosen one of their own. The vast majority of the electors  108  were made cardinals by Pope Francis, according to Vatican statistics.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What is the conclave?

This is the closed-door meeting of the cardinal electors to choose the new pope in the Sistine Chapel. Its name, literally "with a key, was used in the 13th century to describe the process of locking up the cardinals until the election is completed. It must begin no more than 20 days after the death or resignation of a pope. The electors are sequestered from all outsiders for the duration. The last three popes were chosen within days.

Who is the dean of the College of Cardinals?

The current dean is Italian Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re. He is the head of the College of Cardinals who informs the rest of the cardinals and the ambassadors to the Holy See of the popes death once he learns of it from the camerlengo. He convenes the conclave and presides as the electors take their oaths. Since Re is 91, he cannot vote, so he will leave the Sistine Chapel once the conclave begins and the most senior cardinal, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, takes over.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What is St. Peters Basilica?

The 16th century church, built over the traditional tomb of the apostle St. Peter, is one of the largest Catholic basilicas in the world and is the centerpiece of Vatican City, headquarters of the 1.4 billion-strong Catholic Church. The Renaissance masterpiece was built and decorated by some of the most illustrious architects and artists of the time. Its grottoes contain the remains of popes, and its vast, marbled interior is home to some of the Vaticans greatest treasures, including Michelangelos Pieta sculpture and Gian Lorenzo Berninis bronze baldacchino canopy over the main altar.

What is the Domus Santa Marta?

This Vatican guesthouse, built in 1996, specifically houses cardinals during a conclave and is used at other times as a hotel for visiting priests and Vatican officials. Pope Francis never moved out after he was elected, choosing to live in suite 201 rather than the papal apartments in the Apostolic Palace. Because there are so many electors this time and not enough room in the main building, some are being housed in an adjacent residence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What does extra omnes mean?

A Latin phrase for all out, it's spoken by the master for papal liturgical celebrations, currently Italian Archbishop Diego Ravelli, to ask all those present except the cardinal electors to leave the Sistine Chapel to begin the voting process during the conclave.

What does it mean when they say, Habemus Papam?

This Latin phrase translates to We have a pope. These are the words used by the protodeacon of the College of Cardinals to announce from the gallery of St. Peters Basilica that a new pope has been elected. He then says the new pope's birth name and the name he has chosen to use as pope, also in Latin. The current protodeacon is French Cardinal Dominique Mamberti.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Who are the infirmarii?

These are the three cardinals, chosen by a random drawing from the electors, who are charged with gathering the ballots of any electors who made it to Rome but are ill during the conclave.

Who are the revisers?

These are the three cardinals, chosen by a random drawing from the electors, who are charged with reviewing the ballots during the conclave.

Who are the scrutineers?

These are the three cardinals, chosen by a random drawing from the electors, who are charged with reviewing each ballot and announcing it to the assembled conclave after each round of voting. They then tally the votes  to win the election, two-thirds of the votes are necessary  and they burn the ballots.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What does the saying sede vacante mean?

This is Latin for vacant seat, the period between the popes death or resignation and the election of a new one.

What does the text Universi Dominici Gregis contain?

This Latin phrase means the Lords whole flock. Its the Vatican constitution that regulates the processes from a popes death until a new one is elected. St. John Paul II issued it in 1996 during his papacy, and Pope Benedict XVI twice amended it, most significantly by removing John Paul's provision that after about 12 days of balloting a simple majority could elect a new pope rather than a two-thirds majority. If the conclave lasts that long, the top two vote-getters go to a runoff, with a two-thirds majority required to win. Neither of the top two candidates casts a ballot in the runoff.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What does white or black smoke mean during a papal transition?

After sessions of voting in the Sistine Chapel, the ballots are burned in a special furnace to indicate the outcome to the outside world. If no pope is chosen, the ballots are mixed with cartridges containing potassium perchlorate, anthracene (a component of coal tar), and sulfur to produce black smoke. If there is a winner, the burning ballots are mixed with potassium chlorate, lactose and chloroform resin to produce the white smoke. Bells usually are rung to further signal there is a new pope.

___

Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the APs collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content.
WASHINGTON  Republicans on the House Natural Resources Committee approved a proposal to sell roughly 11,000 acres of public land in Utah and Nevada as a way to help pay for President Donald Trumps massive tax package.

The committee voted 26-17 largely along party lines to advance a last-minute amendment to greenlight public land sales in the two Western states  a major policy win for Republicans as they look to secure Trumps campaign promises to increase domestic energy production. The proposal will be tucked into the larger budget reconciliation bill, which Republicans hope to use to pass a majority of Trumps agenda in a single vote.

The amendment specifically targets public lands in Utahs Washington and Beaver counties, which was drafted upon request from county officials, Utah Rep. Celeste Maloy told the Deseret News.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Washington County and Beaver County are landlocked and growing quickly but cannot function because of endless red tape on federal lands, Maloy said. At their request, I introduced an amendment to convey, at fair market value, targeted land  land needed by local governments for infrastructure.

About 63% of Utahs land is owned by the federal government, the most of any state in the country aside from Nevada. The lands included in the amendment make up only a third of a percentage of federal lands in the state, according to Maloy.

Maloys amendment was co-introduced by Nevada Rep. Mark Amodei.

By selling off the federally-owned lands, the GOP lawmakers argued, it will help to reduce the national deficit and pay off the nations debt.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its not entirely clear the purpose of such land sales or if there would be certain requirements for buyers.

The proposal was met with pushback from Democrats on the committee, who accused their GOP counterparts of introducing the amendment at the tail-end of the 12-hour hearing.

This is just some truly odious sausage at 11:20 p.m. at the end of a long markup, Rep. Jared Huffman, D-Calif., said. Any member of Congress that votes for this is just surrendering any semblance of good process. The integrity of the legislative process is dead if you do this.

Only one committee Democrat, Rep. Adam Gray, D-Calif., supported the amendment in committee, but later said he would vote against the full package on the floor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The proposal has also been criticized by public lands advocacy groups who accused Maloy and Amodei of selling off lands to pay for billionaires tax cuts.

Rep. Maloy is hell-bent on selling off and privatizing public lands  attempting to do so in the dark of night, hoping her actions wouldnt be noticed. She was dead wrong, Travis Hammill, D.C. director for the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance, said in a statement. This plan was cooked up behind closed doors, and Utahns and Americans arent going to let her get away with this.

Maloy told the Deseret News the proposal was discussed among lawmakers in the House as well as representatives from Washington County and Beaver County who identified and requested land for development.

Utah officials have long sought to gain control of federal lands in the state, even going so far as to file a lawsuit against BLM last year questioning whether the government agency had authority to hold 18.5 million acres of public land within Utah borders.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Supreme Court ultimately declined to take up the case. State officials have said they plan to refile in a lower court.

Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, has prioritized public land sales as the new chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, especially as a way to increase affordable housing.

However, such proposals may raise eyebrows among Republicans outside the natural resources realm, particularly those who have historically opposed public land sales.

The amendment came on the same day a group of Republicans joined a handful of Democrats to announce the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, a group dedicated to protecting and preserving public lands.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rep. Ryan Zinke, R-Mont., who will co-chair the caucus, acknowledged on Wednesday concerns of federal mismanagement over public lands  but cautioned against throwing the baby out with the bath water as a permanent solution.

Theres a lot of frustration down in the West. I understand that, Zinke said in response to the amendment. But I prefer the management scheme. And I give an example as a hotel  if you dont like the management of a hotel, dont sell the hotel. Change the management. Thats where I sit on that position.

Its not clear if the public land sales amendment would dissuade Zinke or other Republicans from supporting the full reconciliation package, and aides declined an answer when asked by the Deseret News at a press conference unveiling the Public Lands Caucus.

The reconciliation legislation advanced by the House Natural Resources Committee is just one of 11 components of the larger package, which Republican leaders hope to finalize by the end of this month. The package would then head to the Senate for any possible changes.

The public land sales amendment could be stripped out at any point, especially if it receives enough pushback from Western Republicans. However, its not yet clear if GOP lawmakers will draw a line at that proposal.
University of Michigan president Santa Ono faced backlash from conservative activists and lawmakers after University of Florida announced Ono as its sole candidate to fill the seat Sunday.

Christoper Rufo, a conservative activist who serves on the board of trustees at New College of Florida, took to X on Monday to criticize Onos handling of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives at Michigan.

The finalist for the University of Florida presidency is a left-wing administrator who recently declared his support for D.E.I. 2.0 and claimed that the climate crisis is the existential challenge of our time," Rufo wrote. Florida deserves better than a standard-issue college president.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a Fox News segment Tuesday, U.S. Rep Byron Donalds said he didnt know how this guy became the only finalist, but they need to go back to the drawing board.

Those comments were in reaction to a 2023 commencement address in which Ono said, Racism is one of Americas original sins.

Based on those comments, Donalds said, Ono has no business being the president of the number one university in the state of Florida. We need to do better.

At a Wednesday roundtable in Tampa, Gov. Ron DeSantis defended the universitys selection process and said the state rejects woke ideology and added that Florida was the first state to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion offices from its public universities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I dont think a candidate would have been selected who wouldnt abide by those expectations, DeSantis said.

Ono addressed his changing attitudes toward these controversial issues at a series of town hall meetings with faculty, students and staff at UFs Gainsville campus Tuesday, saying that he felt in total alignment with Gov. Ron DeSantis and state legislators priorities for the states public university system.

Over his 15 years of holding presidential positions at the universities of Cincinnati and Michigan, he said, a lot has changed and we have a lot of data that were basing our decisions upon, and I personally have made decisions based upon that data.

His decision to close down the diversity office at Michigan came after it became clear the programs were having little positive return on investment, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When we looked at the actual impact of the DEI programs there, the sense was that too much of the investment was not going to the faculty and students and was going towards the offices and bureaucracy, he said, and not everyone seemed included in the support thats provided.

Ono added that Floridas ban on diversity offices at state colleges and universities came just one year before he made the same decision.

I have the same views as this governor, Ono said.

On climate change, Ono was less direct. The universitys role is to do research thats based on science, he said, adding that he would not provide any political perspective on the issue.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Though not mentioned by Rufo or Donalds, Ono said UF did it right when the school decided to return to in-person learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Times staff writer Kirby Wilson contributed to this report.

Ian Hodgson is an education reporter for the Tampa Bay Times, working in partnership with Open Campus.
EVANSVILLE, Ind. (WEHT)  U.S. Representative Mark Messmer answered dozens of questions and addressed concerns on Tuesday evening during a special tele-town hall event.

It comes after protests and events where people say the congressman is absent and refuses to answer questions and concerns.

I was excited to hear this was happening, especially that we were meeting as a community, so we could brainstorm and come up with the best questions, says Jacob Wallace.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Wallace came to the McCollough Library Meeting Room to speak with fellow constituents and call to ask Representative Messmer questions.

I have contacted the representative several times and have not had any feedback. We get the generic blasted email that comes back and says Thanks for contacting us, we will be happy to get back to you in the future, Wallace says.

Wallace teaches Kindergarten and came to fight for his kids. He says a moderator pre-screened his question.

Why wont Mark Messmer meet with his constituents face to face. Why is he hiding, and who is he really working for? Wallace asked.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Wallace was on the phone for at least half an hour and never got to ask Messmer his question.

I was told I was in the queue, and then I was on hold the entire process, Wallace says.

I am offended by how long I have had to wait, and I am not surprised at all. I am honestly surprised that the calls are happening, says Laura Brown.

Brown was one of the first people in queue and says she never got to ask her question either.

He did not like my question. I was going to ask him to make a commitment to not ship our residents to foreign prisons, says Brown.

While many of the constituents we spoke with did not get through, others around the city did.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Do you support these proposed tariffs by Donald Trump? one resident asked.

Trumps tariff negotiations are just part of making sure that we get rid of unfair trade packages from our foreign trading partners. I do not think it is anybodys best interest for a long-term extension of tariffs right now, Representative Messmer answered.

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).
In 1985, contaminated milk in Illinois led to a Salmonella outbreak that infected hundreds of thousands of people across the United States and caused at least 12 deaths. At the time, it was the largest single outbreak of foodborne illness in the U.S. and remains the worst outbreak of Salmonella food poisoning in American history.

Many questions circulated during the outbreak. How could this contamination occur in a modern dairy farm? Was it caused by a flaw in engineering or processing, or was this the result of deliberate sabotage? What roles, if any, did politics and failed leadership play?

From my 50 years of working in public health, Ive found that reflecting on the past can help researchers and officials prepare for future challenges. Revisiting this investigation and its outcome provides lessons on how food safety inspections go hand in hand with consumer protection and public health, especially as hospitalizations and deaths from foodborne illnesses rise.

Contamination, investigation and intrigue

The Illinois Department of Public Health and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention led the investigation into the outbreak. The public health laboratories of the city of Chicago and state of Illinois were also closely involved in testing milk samples.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigators and epidemiologists from local, state and federal public health agencies found that specific lots of milk with expiration dates up to April 17, 1985, were contaminated with Salmonella. The outbreak may have been caused by a valve at a processing plant that allowed pasteurized milk to mix with raw milk, which can carry several harmful microorganisms, including Salmonella.

Overall, labs and hospitals in Illinois and five other Midwest states  Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin  reported over 16,100 cases of suspected Salmonella poisoning to health officials.

To make dairy products, skimmed milk is usually separated from cream, then blended back together in different levels to achieve the desired fat content. While most dairies pasteurize their products after blending, Hillfarm Dairy in Melrose Park, Illinois, pasteurized the milk first before blending it into various products such as skim milk and 2% milk.

Subsequent examination of the production process suggested that Salmonella may have grown in the threads of a screw-on cap used to seal an end of a mixing pipe. Investigators also found this strain of Salmonella 10 months earlier in a much smaller outbreak in the Chicago area.

Finding the source

The contaminated milk was produced at Hillfarm Dairy in Melrose Park, which was operated at the time by Jewel Companies Inc. During an April 3 inspection of the companys plant, the Food and Drug Administration found 13 health and safety violations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The legal fallout of the outbreak expanded when the Illinois attorney general filed suit against Jewel Companies Inc., alleging that employees at as many as 18 stores in the grocery chain violated water pollution laws when they dumped potentially contaminated milk into storm sewers. Later, a Cook County judge found Jewel Companies Inc. in violation of the court order to preserve milk products suspected of contamination and maintain a record of what happened to milk returned to the Hillfarm Dairy.

Political fallout also ensued. The Illinois governor at the time, James Thompson, fired the director of the Illinois Public Health Department when it was discovered that he was vacationing in Mexico at the onset of the outbreak and failed to return to Illinois. Notably, the health director at the time of the outbreak was not a health professional. Following this episode, the governor appointed public health professional and medical doctor Bernard Turnock as director of the Illinois Department of Public Health.

In 1987, after a nine-month trial, a jury determined that Jewel officials did not act recklessly when Salmonella-tainted milk caused one of the largest food poisoning outbreaks in U.S. history. No punitive damages were awarded to victims, and the Illinois Appellate Court later upheld the jurys decision.

Lessons learned

History teaches more than facts, figures and incidents. It provides an opportunity to reflect on how to learn from past mistakes in order to adapt to future challenges. The largest Salmonella outbreak in the U.S. to date provides several lessons.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For one, disease surveillance is indispensable to preventing outbreaks, both then and now. People remain vulnerable to ubiquitous microorganisms such as Salmonella and E. coli, and early detection of an outbreak could stop it from spreading and getting worse.

Additionally, food production facilities can maintain a safe food supply with careful design and monitoring. Revisiting consumer protections can help regulators keep pace with new threats from new or unfamiliar pathogens.

Finally, there is no substitute for professional public health leadership with the competence and expertise to respond effectively to an emergency.

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: Michael Petros, University of Illinois Chicago

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more:



Michael Petros 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.
Since the early 2000s, governors and legislators from both parties have signed onto a climate agenda in California that is making energy steadily unaffordable.

Gasoline in California, according to AAA , which tracks national gas prices daily, costs an average of about $4.78, compared with $3.16 nationally. The cost of electricity in the state is now the highest in the continental U.S. , at 30.22 cents per kilowatt hour.

You might want to blame the discrepancies on greed  Big Oil practicing price gouging, as Gov. Gavin Newsom has suggested , and utilities lining their shareholders pockets. But at the pump and on your light and power bill, Californias high energy prices are better understood as a self-inflicted wound, traceable to the states quixotic green energy policy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: California now has more EV charging ports than gas nozzles

The notoriously high cost of gas in the state is the result of a lot of factors  we tax gas to pay for road infrastructure and a less-polluting fuel mix in the summer months. Last year, Sacramento decided to move harder, faster toward its goal of a carbon-less future, adding disincentives for refineries and incentives for EVs that the California Air Resources Board has predicted will add 47 cents a gallon at the pump.

Overall, Californias zero-carbon climate policies  pushing EVs as your next car purchase and heat pumps to cool and heat your house  rely largely on electricity that in turn depends on expensive, and intermittent, energy sources, such as wind and solar. Come hell or high water, Californias leaders are trying to regulate, tax and incentivize their way to electricity that is 100% carbon-free by 2045.

Unfortunately, as green-skeptic energy analyst Robert Bryce notes in books and on his Substack, wherever governments have tried to base their energy supply on a swift shift to renewables  the UK , Germany, California  the result has been huge spikes in energy prices . Germanys vaunted industrial economy has slowed in part, according to most observers, because of the high cost of renewable energy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: EV demand stalls out in California as automakers face zero-emission sales mandate

These costs also undermine Californias prosperity in multiple ways. They add to the states energy poverty, increasing an already extreme divide between haves and have nots, and not just because of how hard it is for low-income Californians to pay their gas and utility bills.

The Air Resources Boards most recent scoping plan  the state framework for achieving carbon neutrality  projects that the shift to renewable energy will result in significant income declines for individuals earning less than $100,000 annually, while boosting incomes for those above this threshold.

Carbon economy jobs will dwindle  manufacturing, logistics, oil and gas industry  many of which are well-paying, union jobs. A study by the L.A. Economic Development Commission found that 148,000 direct and more than 350,000 indirect jobs could be threatened by policies aimed at eliminating the industry.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: Fight intensifies over bill by former Edison executive to gut rooftop solar credits

Worse, green technologies largely developed and embraced by Californians, such as EVs and their batteries, now mostly create jobs in red states. One reason expanding microchip firms, including Nvidia , Samsung and Taiwan Semiconductor, have located new facilities in Arizona or Texas and not in California is because of more favorable energy costs there than here. Electricity costs are a major factor in chip manufacturing.

Californias refusal to keep tapping our own fossil fuel energy resources means the state will not attract any of the massive investment aimed at, for instance, new liquid natural gas facilities.

And a renewables-only policy even threatens the green agenda its meant to support. The Air Resources Board calculates that to keep the state and its EVs running in a carbon-neutral future will require doubling electrical generation. And the need for more power will only be exacerbated by the growth of artificial intelligence, an industry critical to maintaining the states at-risk tech dominance. Overall, the demand for energy just for data centers is expected to grow by 160% by 2030, according to Goldman Sachs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: Aliso Canyon likely to stay open for years under closure plan; residents outraged

In fact, recent analyses say California will face acute electricity shortages over the coming decade. Not least among the reasons: a dragged-out, exorbitantly expensive and unpredictable permitting process; the difficulty in finding appropriate locales for wind turbines and solar farms; and, ironically, objections from locals and environmentalists who dont want renewable facilities in their backyards. Case in point: Moss Landing, where a toxic fire in a battery plant, coupled with plans for offshore wind turbines, have turned locals against green policies.

To assure its economic viability, California needs to stop genuflecting to the fantastical notion that wind and solar will soon produce oodles of cheap, clean energy. The Trump administration is fast withdrawing federal support for renewables in favor of drill, baby, drill. In reality, short of an unexpected boom in controversial but emissions-free nuclear power, most experts project continued dominance of fossil fuels, even coal, well into the future and even in California. Last summer, Exxon Mobils forecast for 2050 saw the overall energy market dominated by oil (54%), with renewables reaching only 15%.

Read more: Residents sue energy companies after massive toxic battery fire at Moss Landing

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In such conditions, rather than killing the states fossil fuel industry, we should be using it to supply more of our needs from local drilling and refining, in addition to renewables. California, despite its substantial oil deposits, imports almost 60% of the crude oil it uses.

For all Californias green energy leadership, its not even a certainty that our energy absolutism does much for the planet. California since 2006 has reduced emissions at a rate about normal for all states.

Fortunately, energy realism may finally be back in fashion. Newsoms Public Utility Commission last year decided to keep the Aliso Canyon natural gas storage facility online for now, explicitly in response to the need for gas to help bring down power bills that have been hijacked by the high cost of electricity. Newsom also granted the controversial Diablo Canyon nuclear plant a stay of execution despite environmental protests. He has even sought to keep oil refineries in the state from shutting down.

California can only prosper if it can develop affordable, reliable energy from all sources, including the states fossil fuel supplies. Without a change of direction, the trajectory is building toward a neo-feudal future  a state widely divided between the few rich and the many struggling.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Joel Kotkin is a contributing writer to Opinion Voices, the presidential fellow for urban futures at Chapman University and senior research fellow at the Civitas Institute at the University of Texas, Austin.

If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Azerbaijan's expenses on natural honey imports from Turkiye drop in early 2025

Photo: Azertaj

From January through February 2025, Azerbaijan imported 7.55 tons of natural honey from Turkiye worth $20,900, marking a 2.1-fold decrease in volume and a 5.2-fold drop in value compared to the same period in 2024. Last year, Turkiye had exported 15.76 tons of honey worth $108,500 to Azerbaijan in the same timeframe. Overall, Azerbaijan imported 41 tons of natural honey worth $196,000, mainly from Ukraine, Turkiye, and Russia.

Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register
Department of Juvenile Services Secretary Vincent Schiraldi testifies to a Senate committee in January. (Photo by William J. Ford/Maryland Matters)

A state contractor for the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services worked directly with children despite a 2021 assault conviction, according to a recent audit of the department.

The department  which is tasked with housing and providing programs for incarcerated young people, among other functions  failed to consistently ensure that criminal background checks were completed for every contractor working at state juvenile detention centers and treatment facilities, according to the audit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As of Jan. 3, the contractor, who auditors said was convicted of second-degree assault and possession of a dangerous weapon with the intent to injure, was still working for a DJS vendor.

It was just one of the findings of the 75-page audit released Tuesday by the Office of Legislative Audits, which also reported DJS staff working large amounts of overtime without adequate checks and balances, poorly documented procurements and payments, and a lack of inventories of food and other supplies.

In a written response to auditors, Juvenile Services Secretary Vincent Schiraldi noted that the audit covered April 1, 2020 through Dec. 31, 2023. Gov. Wes Moore (D) took office in January 2023.

The vast majority of the audit period preceded the current administration. Since coming on board, our team has made it a priority to identify and address operational weaknesses both prior to and throughout the audit period, Schiraldi wrote.

Its the latest flare-up for the somewhat embattled secretary. In January, Maryland lawmakers grilled Schiraldi during a three-hour hearing about a troubling report on the agencys performance, including concerns about staffing and juveniles who recommit crimes and are returned to the departments custody.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In its response to the May audit, the agency acknowledged the issues with background checks, and in other areas.

We agree with the recommendation and have developed a generic email address for all vendors to report the findings of their criminal background checks as part of the employment process, DJS officials said.

The agency said it will evaluate whether any contract modifications need to be made to address background checks. It estimated that fixes could be in place by Jan. 31, 2026.

Auditors also found that DJS did not require or obtain updates about any criminal activity by vendors after a contract award. If a contractor was convicted of a disqualifying crime after an initial background check, DJS would not know, unless the vendor reported it voluntarily.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The audit results pointed to a high reliance on overtime at DJS facilities.

In 2023, 10 employees received overtime payments that were greater than their base salaries. A top overtime recipient earned nearly $87,000 in overtime payments, supplementing their salary of $56,750. Also in 2023, 244 DJS employees received overtime payments that totaled more than 50% of their regular earnings.

The agency spent $14.9 million on overtime in 2023, exceeding its overtime budget by more than $4 million, according to the audit. It was a significant increase compared to 2021, when the agency paid $10.4 million on overtime, and came in under budget.

The Juvenile Services agency failed to ensure that employees who worked double shifts on four or more consecutive days received approval from the Director of Residential Services.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The agency also did not  analyze overtime to identify employees who received significant overtime payments and possible steps to reduce the amount of overtime worked, according to the audit.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE

In its response, the agency said that it began reviewing overtime in December 2024, and has done so every pay period since. The agency pledged to review the policy on double shifts, and general overtime use.

DJS will review the current process to ensure it is reasonable and provides adequate data to the appropriate staff to make informed assessments of overtime utilization, read the response from the agency, which said it expects to complete its review by Sept. 30.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The audit also found that, at key facilities, DJS did not conduct required physical inventories of food, medicine, clothing, hygiene products and games, among other items at its facilities.

For example, at both facilities DJS did not periodically conduct physical inventories or maintain a record of food on hand as required, which would allow for DJS to avoid over-purchasing and waste, and to detect theft, read the audit.

In his statement to auditors, Schiraldi said that his agency has implemented a new tracking system for the supplies.

The new system will automate tracking (scan upon receipt) to significantly improve the efficiencies of inventory management, read the agencys response.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

DJS also failed to check up on its facilities, after its Office of Inspector General identified issues. DJS would receive a corrective action report from the facility staff, but wouldnt verify that fixes were actually completed, the audit said. In its response, the agency pledged to put fixes in place by June 30, and monitor corrective actions at the facilities.

When it came to signing contracts with vendors, the audit also found that DJS couldnt provide all the required documentation for five contracts totaling $27.6 million.

As a result, we could not readily determine the propriety of any of these five awards, auditors wrote.

To pay its contractors, the agency leaned on direct voucher payments 57% of the time in the audit period, circumventing state policy. These payments are made without matching a correlating purchase order or invoice.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In its response, DJS expressed concern about a new policy from the Comptrollers office, reducing the timeframe for agencies to process and pay vendor invoices from 25 days to 15 days, which has presented operational challenges in ensuring that purchase orders (POs) are always in place.

DJS said it checked its own direct voucher payments, and determined that 80% were supported by purchase orders or other documentation.

In one instance, DJS management paid $1.5 million of a $1.7 million price tag to a contractor before work was performed  overruling a DJS staffer. Four months later, the vendor completed the job, which involved installing modular homes at a DJS facility.

The department pledged to provide better documentation of its decision-making, but argued the decision to pre-pay about 90% of the cost for the modular homes was appropriate to facilitate the timely delivery.
The family of a man killed by a Downey police officer in a car-on-pedestrian crash in October is suing the city of Downey and alleging that officials attempted to cover up a fatal hit-and-run.

Raymond Lavalle, 48, was hit by an officer with the Downey Police Department near the San Gabriel River Trail in Santa Fe Springs on Oct. 2, according to the Whittier Police Department, which is responsible for policing in the area. The crash took place about 8:42 p.m., and Lavalle was pronounced dead shortly after Whittier police arrived at 9 p.m.

Lavalle's family says the Downey police officer knowingly fled the scene of the crash, while the city of Downey states that the officer was unaware a person had been hit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Thursday, Lavalle's mother, Luisa, and his three sons, Joseph, Raymundo and Matthew, filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against the city in Los Angeles County Superior Court.

The Whittier Police Department investigated the crash and recommended that the officer involved be charged with vehicular manslaughter and hit-and-run causing death, according to department spokesperson Officer Emily Armstrong. Lavalle was unhoused and living in the riverbed at the time of the collision.

Department officials said that investigators did not find any evidence to support a criminal case against the officer, but it was submitted to prosecutors as a standard practice so they could consider the facts and make a charging decision.

The L.A. County district attorney's office ultimately declined to file criminal charges, concluding that the crash was a "tragic accident" resulting from Lavalle lying "on the edge of the roadway and creating an unsafe condition for himself, and [the officer] being unable to see in time to take evasive action." The D.A.'s office said no evidence was found that the officer was driving in a negligent manner or that the officer was aware that someone was hit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: Bakersfield detective accused of trying to coerce girl to send explicit material over Instagram

Lavalle's family alleges that the officer, whose identity it does not know, was speeding when Lavalle was hit and that the officer was not responding to any emergency or call for service. The family alleges that the officer fled without stopping to render aid, as is required by law, and that Downey then attempted to cover up the incident by failing to issue a news release or notify the family.

"This family was kept in the dark for many months about the circumstances of the death of their father from this department because they never contacted this family to let them know that a Downey Police Department officer, while on duty, struck, killed and left him there to die like a dog," attorney Michael Carrillo said at a Tuesday news conference announcing the lawsuit.

The city pushed back on the family's allegations, saying that the police officer was pursuing a suspect at the time of the crash and was unaware that a pedestrian was struck.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The collision occurred at low speed in a dark area with poor visibility while the officer was pursuing a suspect who was actively evading the police," the city said in the statement. "After turning southbound from Telegraph Road into an entrance to the San Gabriel River Trail, the officers vehicle struck a pedestrian seated in the roadway. The officer was not aware of the collision, and the victim was later pronounced deceased on the scene."

According to the D.A.'s office, the officer was captured on dashboard camera footage inspecting the front of the vehicle around six minutes after the fatal collision. The office maintains that the officer could have reasonably believed the car struck litter or debris in the roadway.

The patrol vehicle that struck 48-year-old Raymond Lavalle didn't show damage from a collision, the district attorney's office says. A camera in the vehicle is circled in red. (L.A. County district attorney)

"There was no discernible damage to the front of the patrol vehicle ... nor was there any blood or human tissue visible," the office wrote in a report on the dismissed charges.

The family alleges that the officer hit Lavalle while he was walking with his bike down a driveway toward the San Gabriel River, causing Lavalle to be temporarily lodged underneath the vehicle. Lavalle suffered a collapsed chest cavity, numerous abrasions on his arms, legs, torso and face, a cut to his right hand and a broken wrist, according to the D.A.'s office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I know my father would give you his last dollar, give you the clothes off his back, give you his last meal, whatever it was, he'd give it to you because he cared that much about everybody," Joseph Lavalle said at Tuesday's news conference. "I know whether he was in the same situation, he would have definitely stopped and cared for him like it was his own brother."

The family is seeking compensatory, general and special damages in an amount to be determined at trial, according to the complaint. It is also seeking punitive damages against the Downey police officer once his or her identity becomes known.

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.
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  Authorities need help identifying a man found dead in the backyard of a duplex on the 1800 block of N. Harco Drive in Baton Rouge.

The East Baton Rouge Parish Coroners Office responded to the scene on April 9 after the body of a Hispanic male was discovered by local residents. Officials have not confirmed his identity, even after fingerprint analysis and other investigations.

The coroners office said neighbors believe the man may have gone by the name Carlos Rodriguez and was known to be homeless, often sleeping in a disabled vehicle nearby. He was last seen alive around 6 p.m. on April 8 and did not appear to be in any distress at the time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The man was found wearing a camouflage jacket, black pants, and black shoes. He had no tattoos, visible scars, or identification, and no signs of trauma were found during the preliminary investigation, the coroners office said.

The Baton Rouge Police Departments Homicide Division is helping in the ongoing investigation. The LSU FACES Laboratory developed a photo enhancement of the deceased.

Baton Rouge man charged after shooting left 1 dead at home in Baker

Anyone with information that might help identify the man can contact the coroners office at 225-389-3047.

Latest News

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 Louisiana First News.
A school bus driver was charged with driving under the influence after authorities say he showed up at Cottage Groves Park High School last winter intoxicated with a blood-alcohol level three times the legal limit for driving a private vehicle. Minnesotas standard for school bus drivers, however, is zero.

Joshua Nathaniel Lueth, 36, of Hastings, had his first court appearance last week. He was charged in March with one count of second-degree driving under the influence and one count of second-degree driving under the influence with a blood-alcohol level of above 0.08 and one count of intentionally obstructing, resisting or interfering with a peace officer engaging in his official duties.

The criminal complaint in Washington County District Court gives the following details about the Feb. 26 incident:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Shortly after 3 p.m., Cottage Grove police received a report of a possible drunken driver in front of the school. The caller, a school employee, said she was trying to stop the school bus driver from leaving the property.

When police arrived at the school, an officer asked Lueth if he had driven the bus to the school. Lueth responded to the officer that he has a job and to leave him alone because he has the last half of his route to complete.

The officer noticed there were two students on board the bus, ages 15 and 16. The 15-year-old uses a wheelchair, the complaint said. School staff said that Leuth was having trouble earlier using the lift that helped the student using the wheelchair into the bus and had leaned on the lift to maintain his balance.

Officers saw that Lueth was speaking slowly and slurring his words, that his eyes were red and glassy, and that he was having trouble maintaining his balance. Lueth said that he hadnt taken any prescribed medication or controlled substances, or consumed alcohol.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lueth was taken into custody. His blood-alcohol concentration from a blood sample was 0.289.

Video obtained by investigators showed that during the drive to the high school, Lueth crossed the center lane several times on U.S. 61. Upon arriving at the school, he pulled into a non-bus lane and had to make a U-turn against the flow of traffic.

Shortly after he arrived at the school, a staff member took the bus keys away from him. The vehicle was owned and operated by Hastings-based Big River Bus Co.

Lueths driving record showed that he had been charged with drunken driving in Wisconsin in an incident on Dec. 14, 2024, in Pepin County. That case is still pending.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He is expected in court again on June 5.

Related Articles
Pope Francis marked multiple firsts for the papacy, becoming the first Latin American pope and the first from the Southern Hemisphere when elected in 2013.

He was also the first head of the Roman Catholic Church born outside of Europe in over a millennium.

In the wake of Francis' death on April 21 at the age of 88, the selection process to elect the 267th pontiff begins Wednesday.

PHOTO: Pope Francis waves to faithfuls during his weekly general audience in St. Peter's Square, Vatican City, Nov. 20, 2024. (Fabio Frustaci/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)

Ahead of the secretive gathering of eligible cardinals for the vote, questions swirl over whether the next pope will similarly come from outside Europe, such as Asia or Africa, and potentially be another history-making leader.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cardinal Anders Arborelius of Sweden told ABC News' Ines de La Cuetara in Rome on Sunday, ahead of the conclave, that he "wouldn't be surprised if" the next pope was from Africa or Asia.

"Many people would say that now the church is a global church and the center of the church has gone away from Europe and the Western world to Africa and Asia," Arborelius said. "So I wouldn't be surprised if it would be an African or Asian cardinal because somehow that's where the church is more alive, more dynamic."

Arborelius added that it "depends on the personality" and that at this point, most of the Cardinals are "not very sure" who will get their vote.

MORE: Who are the top contenders to be the next pope? Experts weigh in

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bruce Morrill, the Edward A. Malloy chair in Roman Catholic studies and distinguished professor of theology at Vanderbilt University, told ABC News the election of a pope from Asia or Africa "is certainly a real probability now."

"That is not unthinkable at all," Morrill said. "That's very different from when, let's say, someone like John Paul II was elected. It was a big deal back in 1978 because he wasn't Italian."

"To move a couple papacies later to a man from Argentina -- clearly, it's reflecting more than ever a global church," he added.

The election of someone from the Global South would be a "move in that direction of how to be a global church," Jaisy A. Joseph, an assistant professor of theology and religious studies at Villanova University, told ABC News.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"That move from a Eurocentric church to a truly global church -- I think that's what Francis really inaugurated," she said.

Pope Francis' successor could be someone who continues his progressive legacy and mirrors his pastoral approach, or someone who counters it with a more conservative approach, experts say.

"Is he going to be someone who really strongly continues the primary emphases of the Francis papacy, or do they want to go with someone that they would see as bringing a balance or a certain pendulum swing, to use that language, in counter or contrast of priorities from the Francis papacy?" Morrill said.

Such a swing occurred when Pope Francis was elected, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI, Morrill noted.

PHOTO: Cardinal Luis Tagle smiles as he listens reporters questions during a press conference on the Synod at the Vatican, Oct. 23, 2018. (Alessandra Tarantino/AP)

For Morrill and Joseph, one man who is a natural successor to Pope Francis is a man known as the "Asian Francis" -- Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle, 67, of the Philippines.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Really being with people, listening to people, encountering people where they are and not being afraid of difference -- I think those are traits that Tagle really exemplifies," Joseph said. "That could possibly be a point of continuity if he were to be elected pope."

Morrill said Tagle is a "strongly viable candidate" and someone who would continue the priorities of Pope Francis, who appointed Tagle to an office in the Vatican that focuses on evangelization.

"If the electors are going to turn to someone and discern the way to go is to continue, strongly, the priorities of the late Pope Francis, Tagle fits the bill," Morrill said.

"He's likewise someone who smiles readily and has this warm pastoral way," he added. "That's what makes him the figure that we would think of as providing the most continuity."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If elected, Tagle would be the first Asian pope in modern times and the first from Southeast Asia.

MORE: Pope Francis live updates

Should the voting cardinals move in a more conservative direction, a potential pope could be found in Sub-Saharan Africa, Morrill said. Such a move would make for the first African pope in modern history and the first from Sub-Saharan Africa.

"There would be archbishops, cardinal archbishops in Sub-Saharan Africa that are much more focused on preservation or guarding of the strict traditional practices and teachings of the church," Morrill said.

One name that comes to mind for Morrill is Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, 65, of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

PHOTO: Congolese Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu speaks during a mass in commemoration of the late Pope Francis at the Notre Dame du Congo Cathedral in Kinshasa, April 21, 2025. (Hardy Bope/AFP via Getty Images)

Other conservative candidates from Africa that could gain recognition include Ghanaian Cardinal Peter Turkson, 76, and Guinean Cardinal Robert Sarah, 79, according to Miles Pattenden, historian of the Catholic Church at Oxford University.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to participate in the secret conclave inside the Sistine Chapel to choose the next pontiff.

A two-thirds majority is required to elect a pontiff.

MORE: Electing a new pope: What happens next and what is a papal conclave?

Francis appointed roughly 80% of the cardinals who are eligible to vote for his successor, which could impact the selection of the next pope, Morrill said.

"He was advancing and choosing more and more people from Asia and Africa, and so that does all feed these distinct probabilities or possibilities," Morrill said. "But there really is no way to make any solid prediction."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Pew Research Center found that under Francis, voting-age cardinals from the Asia-Pacific region increased 10%, and those from Sub-Saharan Africa went up 8%, while those from Europe decreased 51%.

PHOTO: Cardinals attend a mass at the St Peter's basilica before the start of the conclave, March 12, 2013 at the Vatican. (Gabriel Bouys/AFP via Getty Images, FILES)

In all, there are 53 cardinal electors from Europe, 23 from Asia, 18 from Africa, 17 from South America, 16 from North America, four from Central America and four from Oceania, according to the Vatican.

For Phyllis Zagano, the senior research associate-in-residence in Hofstra University's Department of Religion, it's unclear at the moment how that shift in makeup will impact the election of the next pope.

"The College of Cardinals has expanded significantly under Pope Francis, who has included cardinals from the farthest reaches of the world," Zagano told ABC News. "Whether that will make any difference in the election of his successor remains to be seen."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Editor's note: This story was corrected to note that Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle would be the first pope from Southeast Asia, not Asia, if elected.

Could the next pope be from Africa or Asia? Experts weigh in originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Congress is considering nearly $800 million in reimbursements that could go to Texas for Gov. Greg Abbotts border security tactics during the Biden administration.

While it is only a fraction of the $11 billion that Abbott and Republicans from Texas in Congress have been seeking, the money would be a significant boost to the state.

The nearly $800 million was worked into the massive spending bill that the U.S. House is building, which would also include tax cuts that President Donald Trump has been pushing Congress to pass as part of what he calls one big, beautiful bill.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While the language in the legislation allows any state to seek reimbursement for immigration enforcement activities along the border, Texas is the only southern border state with a Republican governor that has spent billions on border enforcement as Abbott has under his Operation Lone Star.

Among other things, Abbott used state funding to pay for busing migrants to northern cities, deployed state troopers to the border, put down miles of razor wire and built about 60 miles of noncontinuous border wall after President Joe Biden had halted federal border wall construction.

Its time to pay Texas back, U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw, a Houston Republican who filed legislation earlier this year to pay Texas back for all $11 billion, said in summing up the new version of the GOP spending bill.

Crenshaw said Texas needs more than whats in the spending package now. But there is also more time to negotiate on the funding. House Republicans are trying to complete their budget package by around Memorial Day, then Republicans in the Senate are expected to work on their own package in June. Both chambers need to agree on the same numbers for it to get to Trump for his final signature.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, on Thursday made it clear that he would push for more money for the state in the Senate.

"This needs to happen by the end of July, and I expect that Texas will be reimbursed for those expenses that were borne by Texas taxpayers that should have been borne by the federal government, Cornyn said.

Abbott has pitched the reimbursement as a real estate transaction during multiple visits to the White House. He said he told the president that Texas has miles of border wall, and easements to build more, that can be transferred to the federal government.

He also signed onto a letter to U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune formally asking for full reimbursement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Even though Trump is now in office, Texas isnt done paying for border security with state money. The Texas House has voted to put $6.5 billion more into the border security crackdown. That includes $2.8 billion for continuing to install barriers along the Rio Grande, $2.3 billion for the Texas Military Department and $1.2 billion for the Department of Public Safety to pay for personnel to patrol the border.

That funding comes even as border crossings have plummeted along the U.S.-Mexico border, according to federal government statistics. U.S. Customs and Border Protection reported just 7,000 border apprehensions in March along the entire border. That is a 95% drop from a year ago when 137,000 apprehensions were reported.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Texas could recoup up to $800M for Operation Lone Star in House bill
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT)  The Cove Area Citizens Community Action Group held a meeting Tuesday with Huntsville city leaders to address the areas need for infrastructure to match the growing population.

Community members say the infrastructure quality is lacking in response to the areas influx of people, both living in it and traveling through it.

Mother and son with special needs lose everything to a fire

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Many issues were brought to the city leaders attention. Several in attendance at Tuesdays meeting voiced concerns about road conditions, school capacities, too high speed limits on local roads and developments planned for the area.

District 2 Huntsville City Councilman David Little brought city and county planners and developers with him to better address community members concerns and questions. He said he is aware and recognizes the issues raised, emphasizing the dire need for road improvements and expansion, especially for streets like Old Big Cove Road.

A lot of our roads, like Old Big Cove Road, are still two-lane country roads that have subdivisions along them, Little said. And they need to be widenedWhen that road was built, there were maybe 5 or 6 farmers driving down it. Now theres, you know, 5,000 people in this area every day and a lot of grooves. Its a popular place to be and we want to make sure were keeping up.

Bill Binkley, a member of the Cove Area Citizens Community Action Group, said he felt like a lot of questions were answered by leaders. He explained that residents of this area want to ensure their tax dollars are going towards improving this area.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Laid out what they spent money on so far, and doing a little foresight and getting ready for the growth, Binkley said. So theres goodness in it. We just want to make sure our tax dollars are being spent adequately to reflect, you know, what we pay.

City leaders attributed much of the changes to the capital plan. Funds allocated for that plan during 2025 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 WHNT.com.
CHICAGO (WGN)  Chicago police seek the publics help following the disappearance of a 15-year-old girl, who the department says has been missing since late April.

Devondrea Crenshaw was last seen on April 25 in the 4800 block of S. Justine St. in New City. CPD said the teen may be in the area of Jackson Ave and Cicero Ave, or Roosevelt Ave and Clark St.

Devondrea Crenshaw

Devondrea stands 5-foot-1-inch tall, weighs 170 pounds, and has brown eyes and black hair.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She was last seen wearing a black sweatshirt and sweatpants.

LATEST CASES: Missing people in Chicagoland

Anyone with information is asked to call Area One SVU Detectives at (312) 747-8380 or leave an anonymous tip at cpdtip.com.

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.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. The majority of emerging markets (EMs) in the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region will continue to take a cautious approach to the implementation of bank failures., Trend reports via S&P.

S&P noted that Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan are carrying out reforms to improve the quality of regulation and supervision.

"In other countries, factors such as lack of transparency, a volatile institutional environment, and political interference are among the factors affecting our assessment. Therefore, in most of these countries, where a legal bankruptcy framework does not exist, we expect regulators to continue to use solutions to deal with banking crises. For example, in some countries, banks are allowed to operate for a long time without meeting minimum capital adequacy requirements. Additionally, in some countries, there may be a need to strengthen the legal framework to allow regulators to intervene and take direct action against struggling banks.

Some EMs, among the first to implement international regulations, still delay the implementation of bankruptcy frameworks, and in our opinion, this could have serious consequences for their banking systems.

We also acknowledge that some countries in the Central Asia and Caucasus regions are taking steps towards adopting bankruptcy frameworks  among them, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan are ahead of others. As for other countries, if they decide to take steps in this direction, we believe that the adoption of these frameworks may take considerable time.

Georgia is also one of the countries that decided to adopt a bankruptcy framework. The country has already passed legislation regarding the creation of a bankruptcy fund and has applied minimum capital and corresponding liability (MREL) requirements for the country's three systemically important banks. Additionally, resources have been allocated to the Bankruptcy and Liquidation Department within the Central Bank, and the implementation of the bankruptcy framework has begun," the S&P added.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
NEW BERN, N.C. (WNCT)  The English Speaking Union Colonial NC Branch and Craven County Schools are honoring a special student Wednesday, for their inspiration to the school community.

The ceremony will be held at the West Craven Middle School and will honor 7th grader Farahnaz Nazari, who is a newcomer to the country as a refugee. The school said that despite obstacles, Nazari has overcome the difficulties of learning a new language, culture and environment. She has shown her determination through academic excellence within the school.

Farahnaz is a true example of perseverance and excellence, said Mrs. Brinson, ESOL and Refugee School Impact Coordinator. This recognition is not only well-deserved but also a powerful reminder of the strength and potential refugee students bring to our schools.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The ceremony is meant to celebrate Nazaris accomplishments along with the inclusive and nurturing environment that Craven County Schools and its educators foster.

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 WNCT.
DALLAS COUNTY, Iowa  A fuel spill near a creek in Waukee is under investigation by the Dallas County Sheriffs Office.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources said an above-ground storage tank began leaking diesel fuel around 2:30 a.m. Saturday. Approximately 4,000 gallons were released, some of which made its way into Little Walnut Creek. Officials were alerted later in the day after residents began to complain of a strong smell in the area.

Iowa man one of eight killed in Kansas head-on crash

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources said an above-ground storage tank began leaking diesel fuel around 2:30 a.m. Saturday. Approximately 4,000 gallons were released, some of which made its way into Little Walnut Creek. Officials were alerted later in the day after residents began to complain of a strong smell in the area.

Sheriff Adam Infante confirmed to WHO 13 that a criminal investigation into how the leak started is open and active. He did not immediately have any additional details to provide, but hoped to have an update in the future.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mitigation efforts, including Booms, large, pillow-like tools that stretch from one side of the creek to the other to absorb the oil, were installed in the water, said Ted Petersen, with the DNR.

A third-party contractor would be brought in to continue mitigation efforts on Wednesday.

On Tuesday, Peterson told WHO 13s Katie Kaplan that the impacted area had not changed since the spill, which was a good indicator that there would be no long-term impacts to the local environment. There were no reports of dead fish or harm to local aquatic life, he said.

To report a release after hours, Iowans can call the DNRs emergency spill line at (515) 725-8694. More information about spill reporting requirements can be found on the DNR website.

Metro News:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 who13.com.
The Australian government was all set to build a hydrogen plant in South Australia with Geneva-based company Trafigura, but it will not move forward with the project.

What's happening?

According to Reuters, a Trafigura spokesperson announced on March 25 that the company had abandoned the $471.2 million "green hydrogen plant at its Port Pirie," with no explanation given. The Australian government has not commented so far.

Trafigura originally announced the plant in 2021 to lower its polluting gases. It completed a $3 million feasibility study for the green hydrogen plant in 2023.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A Trafigura spokesperson told Reuters, "Following completion of the study, the decision was taken not to proceed further."

The company even established a fund to invest in renewable energy in 2019, so the fact that it is not moving forward with a previously announced project is confusing.

Why is green hydrogen important?

According to Reuters, green hydrogen is considered a renewable replacement for dirty energy. It is "produced by splitting water molecules with a current of renewable electricity in electrolysers."

The World Economic Forum said, "Green hydrogen can contribute to energy security by providing a way to store and transport energy and diversify energy sources."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While solar and wind rely on the sun and wind, hydrogen can be used when those sources are unavailable. It can also be used in industries that are hard to electrify, such as large-scale machinery and long-distance transport.

Additionally, green hydrogen is believed to be a vital tool in protecting the planet.

What's being done to get more green hydrogen projects approved?

While green hydrogen would be an excellent renewable energy source, according to Economist Impact, there is limited existing infrastructure. That makes the process of building projects complex and expensive.

The think tank noted, "As electrolyser technology is deployed at scale, costs fall and the likelihood of technology breakthroughs increases."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Economist Impact said that "ammonia production plants and oil refineries" are a logical first step because infrastructure exists and the companies that produce hydrogen can also use it.

Governments can also provide incentives for producing green hydrogen. You can use your voice by speaking with your representatives to get incentives passed.

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.
By Jeff Mason and Andrea Shalal

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Vice President JD Vance on Wednesday said Europe and the United States were "on the same team" but needed a better joint security posture, taking a more conciliatory tone after alarming allies with sharp remarks during a visit to Germany in February.

During an event in Washington sponsored by the Munich Security Conference, Vance reiterated his and President Donald Trump's belief that Europe needed to take on more responsibility related to defense. Vance said both sides of the Atlantic had become too comfortable with an outdated security system that was not adequate to meet the challenges of the next 20 years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The vice president has played an attack dog role repeatedly for Trump on foreign policy but stepped back from that approach in his remarks at the conference on Wednesday.

"I do still very much think that the United States and Europe are on the same team," he said, noting how European and American culture and civilizations were linked.

"It's completely ridiculous to think that you're ever going to be able to drive a firm wedge between the United States and Europe. Now that doesn't mean we're not going to have disagreements."

Earlier this year in Munich, Vance accused European leaders of censoring free speech and failing to control immigration, drawing a rebuke from German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius that the U.S. vice president was calling into question democracy in Germany and in Europe as a whole.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Vance last week joined other members of Trump's circle, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in criticizing a move by Germany's domestic intelligence agency to classify the far-right Alternative for Germany party as an "extremist" group, enabling it to step up monitoring of the biggest opposition party.

But on Wednesday, Vance adopted a less antagonistic tone toward Washington's long-time ally and NATO partners. He said his February remarks were aimed as much at the administration of former President Joe Biden as they were at European partners.

Wolfgang Ischinger, the former chairman of the Munich Security Conference who now serves as president of the MSC Foundation Council, invited Vance to return to Germany for the group's main conference again next year.

I wasnt sure after February whether I would get the invitation back, but its good to know its still there, Vance joked.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Well, we thought about it," Ischinger quipped back, to laughter.

The audience, which included diplomats and national security experts, applauded when Vance got up to leave. They had not done so when he came on stage.

Vance addressed a handful of foreign policy topics during his question and answer session with Ischinger, a former ambassador.

More than 100 days into Trump's administration, Vance said he was not pessimistic about the chances of ending Russia's war with Ukraine. He has previously threatened that the United States would walk away from negotiations if the two sides did not show progress.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said Washington would not be able to mediate an end to the war without direct talks between the two sides and urged Russia and Ukraine to agree on some guidelines to make that happen.

"Right now the Russians are asking for a certain set of requirements, a certain set of concessions in order to end the conflict. We think they're asking for too much," said Vance, who has previously taken a hard line on Ukraine.

Vance urged the European Union to lower its tariffs and regulatory barriers, a major grievance for Trump that has fueled his determination to install reciprocal tariffs.

He also spoke positively about U.S. talks with Iran over its nuclear program, saying there was a deal to be made that wouldreintegrate Iran into the global economy while preventing itfrom getting a nuclear weapon.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"So far, so good," he said. "We've been very happy by how the Iranians have responded to some of the points that we've made."

During his first term, Trump withdrew the U.S. from a 2015 nuclear deal with Iran that had been negotiated by European and other world powers.

(Reporting by Jeff Mason and Andrea Shalal; additional reporting by Katharine Jackson; Editing by Colleen Jenkins and Deepa Babington)
NEOSHO, Mo.  The President of Crowder College is calling on supporters to lobby lawmakers about the importance of federal grant programs at risk of being cut.

President Trumps proposed budget includes zero funding for the TRIO programs which cover outreach and student services for students who are first generation and from low-income brackets. Crowder College has held several of these related grants for up to 30 years with officials saying they are crucial to helping students understand education options as well as helping them stay with a course of study through graduation.

Just trying to ensure that we are advocating for funding to continue to serve residents of this region in those programs that help prepare them for pathways to post-secondary education, many of those are workforce certificates, said Dr. Chett Daniel, Crowder College President.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Daniel adds that the TRIO related grants affect hundreds of southwest Missouri students every year, many of whom go on to complete an education at Crowder as well as other higher ed institutions.

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.
NORTH HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH)  The Connecticut Department of Education hosted its first ever Educators Rising Signing Day at Quinnipiac Universitys North Campus.

It recognizes and celebrates high school seniors across the state who are committing to pursue careers in education.

17 students, staff displaced following fire at Cheshire Academy

The ceremony wanted to mimic similar events held for student athletes committing to college programs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Twenty high school seniors from seven school districts were honored.

Watch the video in the 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 WTNH.com.
Two people were arrested at a residence in Killingly on Monday after the property owner alleged that he was assaulted and threatened after finding the two men inside the home despite being evicted.

Troopers and officers with the Killingly Police Department responded to the residence on Hartford Pike around 1:40 p.m. on the report of a disturbance and found that a man had been hit over the head and allegedly threatened with a knife, according to Connecticut State Police.

Authorities who responded to the home found a man bleeding from his head. He was treated by medics at the scene. State police said the man had been accompanied to the property by someone who was helping assess and inspect it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When they arrived, the pair found that two people who had been legally evicted months ago were still inside, according to state police. One of them was identified as 50-year-old Jonathan Williams of Killingly who initially spoke to the owner and assessor through the door and allegedly became belligerent when he was reminded that he was not supposed to be at the home, state police said. According to state police, Williams was allegedly armed with a knife when he opened the door and threatened to kill the two men.

State police said the property owner was struck over the head by a glass bottle that was allegedly thrown by 19-year-old Ayden Williams of Killingly. The teen was still on the property when police arrived and was arrested.

State police said Jonathan Williams had fled when he learned that authorities had been called. He was found on foot not far away after a K-9 unit and other officers searched the area. State police alleged that he had a box cutter on him. They also found that he had seven warrants out for his arrest, each charging him with failure to appear in court.

Jonathan Williams was charged with five counts of second-degree failure to appear, two counts of first-degree failure to appear and a single count of second-degree threatening and disorderly conduct. He was held on bonds totaling $60,000 and was expected to appear in Danielson Superior Court on Tuesday.

Ayden Williams was charged with third-degree assault on an elderly victim and disorderly conduct. He was released on $2,500 bond and is scheduled to appear before a judge on May 21.
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  A Miami Valley township is investigating after being subject to a reported cyber incident.

Liberty Township in Butler County is attempting to locate the origin of the incident.

The Township is working diligently to determine the cause and impact, said the township. At this point in time, there is no indication the publics personal information has been compromised.

While the investigation remains ongoing, the township said it remains open. Neither fire nor police services will be impacted.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you need to contact the township building, the townships phone system and website are still working. The email system is not accessible, so replies to emails will be delayed.

More updates regarding the incident will be relayed by the township to the public in when 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 WDTN.com.
Turkmenistan lures France with new investment opportunities

Turkmenistan is actively seeking to strengthen its economic ties with France, offering favorable conditions for investment and cooperation across various sectors. During the Turkmen-French Economic Forum in Paris, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov highlighted key areas for collaboration, including energy, technology, and tourism, while announcing plans for future joint initiatives.

Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register
D.L. Hughley Says Mike Pence Winning Courage Award Shows How Far U.S. Has Fallen

D.L. Hughley says Mike Pence winning the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award captures just how bad things in the country have become ... 'cause Pence shouldn't have been in danger when certifying election results in the first place.

The comedian joined us on "TMZ Live" -- as he does every Tuesday -- and, Harvey and Charles asked him about the former Vice President taking home the huge honor for "putting his life and career on the line to ensure the constitutional transfer of presidential power on January 6, 2021."

Mike Pence and Trump Happier Times - Click image to open gallery

D.L. says he understands why Pence won the award ... but, he thinks it speaks more to how much the political climate in the country has changed, rather than actually accomplishing anything above and beyond.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hughley explains Pence was just doing what so many dozens of politicians and other American citizens have done before him -- upholding the Constitution of the United States like he pledged he would when he was sworn in as vice president.

Mike Pence Presidential Campaign Trail - Click image to open gallery

This shouldn't be a big deal, Hughley says ... but, the country's so out of whack that even the simple act of performing one's duty is a big deal these days.

D.L. adds that Donald Trump's reelection last year proves his point ... because Pence's act of patriotism only ended up putting a four-year pause on DJT's return to the Oval Office.

Mike Pence Emotional Over Trump's Jan. 6 Tweet About Him Having No Courage

Hughley does have some kind words for Pence, calling him a principled man ... but, ultimately, D.L.'s looking at the bigger issues in the country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During his award acceptance speech last week, Pence talked about how the Constitution binds the nation together ... adding that January 6 was a "tragic day but it became a triumph of freedom. History will record that our institutions held."

D.L. says all of that shouldn't have been necessary back in 2021 ... and, that the country's in trouble because it was.

Want more of D.L.s hot takes? Check out The DL Hughley Show.
Five Mexican citizens have been charged with participating in human smuggling after a small boat carrying migrants capsized off San Diego on Monday, killing four people including two children, authorities said.

Tragic new details about the deadly smuggling incident came to light Tuesday.

The body of a 14-year-old boy from India was among three recovered following the accident, and his 10-year-old sister remains missing at sea and is presumed dead, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The siblings' parents were rescued, but the father is now in a coma, and the mother remains hospitalized.

The drowning deaths of these children are a heartbreaking reminder of how little human traffickers care about the costs of their deadly business, U.S. Atty. Adam Gordon said in a statement. We are committed to seeking justice for these vulnerable victims, and to holding accountable any traffickers responsible for their deaths.

The U.S. Coast Guard received a call around 6:30 a.m. Tuesday reporting that a small panga-style boat with an estimated 16 people on board had overturned just north of Torrey Pines State Beach, said Hunter Schnabel, a Coast Guard public affairs officer.

Bystanders and San Diego lifeguards were able to rescue four people. Three bodies were recovered from the scene, and nine people were initially unaccounted for.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Two of the smuggling suspects  Jesus Ivan Rodriguez-Leyva, 36, and Julio Cesar Zuniga-Luna, 30, both of Mexico  were arrested on the beach, prosecutors said.

They have been charged with bringing in migrants resulting in death, which has a maximum penalty of death or life in prison. Although the death penalty remains legal in California, Gov. Gavin Newsom has declared a moratorium on executions, in effect halting them during his tenure.

They are also charged with bringing in migrants for financial gain, which is punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

Three additional arrests were made Monday night after Border Patrol agents spotted a car, which had been seen earlier near the accident scene, some 25 miles south in Chula Vista, which is just 10 miles north of the Mexican border. The driver of the vehicle fled the scene.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Agents continued their investigation and successfully stopped two other vehicles involved in the smuggling incident, authorities said. Inside the vehicles, they discovered eight of the nine missing migrants, with the exception of the 10-year-old girl, prosecutors said.

The drivers of the vehicles  Melissa Jenelle Cota, 33, Gustavo Lara, 32, and Sergio Rojas-Fregoso, 31  were arrested and charged with the transportation of undocumented immigrants, which is punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

Rojas-Fregoso faced an additional charge for being in the country illegally after having been previously deported in December 2023, prosecutors said. This charge is punishable by up to two years in prison.

"Human smuggling, regardless of the route, is not only illegal but extremely dangerous. Smugglers often treat people as disposable commodities," Shawn Gibson, special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations, San Diego, said in a statement. "Yesterday's heartbreaking events are a stark reminder of the urgent need to dismantle these criminal networks driven by greed."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: Migrants make increasingly dangerous journeys to enter California through the coast

The smuggling of migrants is a persistent problem along the California coastline and one that often has deadly consequences.

In 2023, at least eight people died when two migrant smuggling boats overturned off Black's Beach in San Diego County. A year earlier, a man and two women died when a panga boat crashed into rocks at the base of the cliffs of Point Loma in San Diego.

Times staff writer Hannah Fry contributed to this report

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.
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO)  The 100th running of the Howard Wood Dakota Relays ran over the weekend and the event has changed over the years.

The Howard Wood Dakota Relays formerly known as the Dakota Relays started in 1923, but not in its current location.

The original track here was over by where the old Sears building used to be, on the east side of downtown Sioux Falls, Howard Wood volunteer Steve Hauff said. They moved over here in 1957, still cinder, and it was early in the 70s that it became an all weather track.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The track is not the only modifications the Dakota Relays have seen. Along with the facilities, athletes have seen upgrades to the way the event is scored, thanks to the many technological advancements over the past century.

Back when we used to do it, we were on the picker stand, Hauff said. So youre up there trying to pick first, second, third. Are my eyes as good as they used to be? No. Thats why you have the electronics today.

Weve gone from the bamboo poles to pole vault with to aluminum, to fiberglass. So the technology that, weve witnessed in our world has certainly hit the track and field, field, Howard Wood volunteer Dave Stevens said.

The premiere event has brought athletes from nearby states together for years to compete against one another and the meet success has relied heavily on the help of their volunteers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We see a number of records, we see a number of personal records that are set, Stevens said. I have a passion for track and field and I think that all the other volunteers have a passion to come out and do the best job they can do and do it for the student athlete.

The South Dakota State Track and Field meet will also be held at Howard Wood Field. The meet starts May 29th.

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.
DANVILLE, Va. (WFXR)  The Danville Police Department and the Danville Sheriffs Office will honor and remember six officers who lost their lives in the line of duty with the annual Peace Officers Memorial Day Service.

The event will occur on Thursday, May 15 at 10 a.m. at the Danville Police Department in the Annex Multipurpose Room.

President Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day in 1962, as National Police Week. This was established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962 to pay special recognition to those in law enforcement who lost their lives in the line of duty to protect others.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Veterans Voices: Largest Vietnam veterans parade held in Chicago in 1986

Each year, there are hundreds of names of officers killed in the line of duty that are engraved on the walls of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC. Their names are read out loud during the annual Candlelight Vigil for those who made the sacrifice.

2025 will mark the 37th Annual Candlelight Vigil which will take place on Tuesday, May 13th, on the National Mall. It is between 4th and 7th Streets and Madison and Jefferson Drives in Washington, DC.

To learn more visit, Candlelight Vigil  National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 WFXRtv.
Erie County is one of the few counties in western Pennsylvania that houses immigration detainees.

The county has raked in some revenue from the agreement with the federal government and now the county executive is looking to add it to the budget.

Erie Zoo asks city to transfer 106 acre property to Erie Events

Erie County currently has a contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to hold ICE detainees at the county jail, and now the county executive administration is asking council to appropriate federal revenue from that contract to the county budget.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Erie County Council met Tuesday night at the courthouse on West 6th Street, reviewing an ordinance that would appropriate over $400,000 into the county budget.

The $400,000 comes from federal revenue acquired from housing detainees.

Erie professionals highlight their services for Mental Health Awareness Month

County council will bring the ordinance for a second reading at the next meeting, where council will come to a final decision on the legislation.

Council member Rock Copeland said in order to get this new money into the budget, the county executive will need an appropriation from council as to what he can spend it on.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The executive has the ability to enter into a contract without our authority. We dont exercise authority over that. Hes collected revenues, and now hes asking us to allow him to spend it. I question where the money is coming from and why we have that money, but we do, and we need to decide what to do with it, he said.

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Daily News

County council will have its final vote on the ordinance in June.

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.
Jefferson Griffin (R) surrendered in his six-month-long battle to steal a North Carolina Supreme Court election from Allison Riggs (D) on Wednesday, the same day that North Carolina Republicans other ratfuckery  trying to strip power from the states elected Democrats to seize control of election administration in the state  became official.

As my colleague Khaya Himmelman has been reporting, continuously, for months, the Republican-controlled state legislature passed a piece of legislation in December 2024, just before it lost its supermajority. The legislation was a power grab disguised as a hurricane relief bill.

The bill contained a provision that gave the then-newly elected Republican state auditor Dave Boliek authority over the states five-member election board. The responsibility previously was held by the governors office. After the 2024 election, when Democrats held onto the governors mansion and the attorney generals office, North Carolina Republicans moved to strip some power from the newly elected Democrats. No other state auditor in the nation holds power over the state election board.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bill passed the state legislature, the-then Gov. Roy Cooper (D) vetoed it, the North Carolina House voted to override the veto in the waning days of the supermajority and the bill became law. Both Cooper and now-Gov. Josh Stein (D), the then-governor elect who previously served as the states attorney general, filed a lawsuit against the GOP-controlled state legislatures leadership.

In a 2-1 decision last month, North Carolina Superior Court judges sided with Stein and Cooper, finding the legislation was unconstitutional. That brings us to last week, when a North Carolina Appeals court panel ruled the law could take effect, handing control of the states election board  the very body embroiled in Griffins six-month-long effort to steal the election from Riggs  to Boliek, the Republican state auditor.

Stein appealed the decision to the state Supreme Court and Boliek, within hours of the law taking effect, appointed three Republicans to the North Carolina Elections Board, shifting the majority to Republicans. The new executive director was appointed today. Griffin also conceded today, a surprising move given the fact that a Republican majority on the state election board could, seemingly, have reversed its position on his various efforts to reverse his defeat. (The board under Democratic control has objected to Griffins efforts to throw out tens of thousands of ballots to steal Riggs victory.)

I hope we return [to] a time when those who lose elections concede defeat rather than trying to tear down the entire election system and erode voter confidence, outgoing state elections board director Karen Brinson Bell said in a statement Wednesday.

MAGA Remembers That Trumps Base Uses Medicaid, Too

Vulnerable House Republicans have been queasy but relatively quiet about their conferences planned slashing of Medicaid for months. In the past two weeks, Republicans on the House Energy and Commerce Committee have been going to work trying to figure out how to make sweeping cuts to Medicaid happen without too many Americans figuring out what theyre doing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some of that obfuscation work has hit a rough patch this week, however. Self-imposed deadlines for the text of the targeted cuts coming out of the House E&C and Agriculture Committees have been pushed, as Republicans on the panels struggle to come to an agreement about how exactly theyll make billions in cuts to Medicaid and SNAP. A contingent of right-wing members of the House are pushing for even deeper cuts and are considering scaling back the scope of their tax cut extension in order to make that happen.

Now MAGA influencers  remembering that members of Trumps voting base are low-income and use Medicaid  are making a scene, claiming Trump never wanted to cut Medicaid and also suggesting that those who support the extreme cuts are sabotaging Republicans prospects in the midterms. Laura Loomer went on a Twitter tirade on Monday evening.

NEW:



 Trumps Medicaid Promise Under Siege by RINO Saboteurs Like Paragon Health CEO Brian Blase @brian_blase 



In a shocking betrayal of President Donald Trumps unwavering commitment to Americas working-class families, and his promise to protect Medicaid, Paragon Health pic.twitter.com/1iuLrM5LUv  Laura Loomer (@LauraLoomer) May 6, 2025

New CBO Estimate: Medicaid Cuts Would Affect Millions

A new estimate by the Congressional Budget Office  a nonpartisan, federal agency that provides budget and economic information to Congress  indicates millions of Americans would lose their health care coverage if Republicans follow through on the Medicaid cuts they are currently discussing how to pull off.

The report, which analyzes five different options of possible cuts to the social safety net program, estimates that reducing the current 90% federal matching rate for the Medicaid expansion population would lead to 5.5 million people losing coverage.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) said Tuesday night that Republicans are no longer considering that option. Meanwhile, capping federal spending for the expansion population, which is reportedly still on the table, would lead to 3.3 million people being kicked off their coverage, CBO estimates.

This non-partisan Congressional Budget Office analysis confirms what weve been saying all along: Republicans Medicaid proposals result in millions of people losing their health care, House Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone (D-NJ) said in a Wednesday statement. Trump has repeatedly claimed Republicans are not cutting health care, but CBOs independent analysis confirms the proposals under consideration will result in catastrophic benefit cuts and people losing their health care. Its time for Republicans to stop lying to the American people about what theyre plotting behind closed doors in order to give giant tax breaks to billionaires and big corporations.

 Emine Yucel

They Have To Follow Their Heart

Even Donald Trump is toning down his typically-boisterous support for Ed Martin, his pick to run the D.C. USAs office, who has used his post as acting head of the office to go after Trumps perceived enemies. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) who is up for reelection next year, has made it clear hes a no on moving Martins nomination out of the Senate Judiciary Committee, likely tanking his prospects of getting confirmed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Her are Trumps remarks to reporters regarding Martins nomination in the Oval Office today:

Thats really up to the senators; if they feel that way, they have to vote the way they vote. They have to follow their heart and they have to follow their mind.

In Case You Missed It

SCOTUS Allows Trumps Purge Of Trans In Military To Proceed

Republicans Dodge Even Basic Questions On Medicaid Cut Plans: Decisions Havent Been Made

Yesterdays Most Read Story

President Trumps Media Company Is Offering Movies About Lizard People And Other Wild Conspiracy Theories

What We Are Reading

Donald Trumps Information Warfare Against America

House Republicans push to sell thousands of acres of public lands in the West

US Health department will analyze data from autistic Medicare, Medicaid enrollees, RFK Jr. says
MILAN, Italy, May 7. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) will support Azerbaijan with satellite technology for smarter water management, Yasmin Siddiqi, Director for Agriculture, Food, Nature, and Rural Development in Central and West Asia at the Asian Development Bank, said in response to Trends question during a briefing held as part of the 58th ADB Annual Meeting in Milan.

In fact, at COP 29 last year, the Glaciers to Farms initiative was launched. We have done a glacier risk analysis. So this is looking at the actual river basin, the Kura River Basin, which is in Azerbaijan as well, and looking at the glaciers and the snow and the impacts of climate on the melting of the glaciers and the snow in the Kura River Basin, and what it will mean for Azerbaijan and its water resources. So this is a piece of work that our glacier scientists have recently completed, she said.

Siddiqi noted that this Glaciers to Farms initiative is in partnership with the Green Climate Fund.

And this will be its first regional initiative in Central Asia and the Caucasus region. So for us, it's a very important piece of work. ADB has a long history of working in Azerbaijan. Of course, the support we've provided to the government so far has been in a range of areas, including some of the infrastructure areas, but also with policy support and budgetary support. We're very excited that this will be the first initiative with the government of Azerbaijan in water resources and looking at irrigation systems, looking at river basin management, she said.

Siddiqi recalled that she was in Azerbaijan in January this year, where she met with the State Water Resources Agency and discussed with them the possibility of certain projects that could be supported by the government and by the Green Climate Fund and ADB financing.

So, just as an example, what the government is keen for ADB to support is to look at how we can improve water application at the farm level. In Azerbaijan, farmers manage small pieces of land. And the government has requested ADB to consider supporting how we can work with farmers so that they have larger pieces of land that could be more efficient and productive. And also looking at how we can introduce technology. For example, we have irrigation systems which are more efficient. They deliver water to the crop more efficiently.

The government is keen for ADB to bring in this type of technology. They would also like us to work with them on the strategy and policy in Azerbaijan on river basin management. Today, with satellite information and remote sensing data, we can actually do that without even measuring it on the ground. We can use satellite technology to help us with that. And that's exactly the type of information we want to bring to the government, she concluded.
May 7 (UPI) -- On this date in history:

In 1718, the French established the city of New Orleans on land inhabited by the Chitimacha tribe. The actual date of the city's founding is unknown, but the anniversary is traditionally observed May 7.

In 1789, the first U.S. presidential inaugural ball, celebrating the inauguration of George Washington, was conducted in New York City.

In 1824, Beethoven's Ninth Symphony was performed for the first time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 1913, homemade bombs found under the bishop's throne in St. Paul's Cathedral and opposite the offices of Evening Star in Bouverie Street, were deemed by police to have been the work of suffragettes.

A stone bust of Ludwig van Beethoven stands near the Old Playground Pavilion in Tower Grove Park in St. Louis on March 3, 2021. On May 7, 1824, Beethoven's "Ninth Symphony" was performed for the first time. File Photo by Bill Greenblatt/UPI

In 1915, a German U-boat sank the British liner Lusitania off the coast of Ireland, killing nearly 1,200 people.

In 1921, in an exclusive interview with the United Press, Sun Yat Sen, president of the Canton Chinese government, outlined his policy proposals as he sought recognition for his fledgling government.

The St. Anne Parade marches down Royal St in New Orleans on Fat Tuesday, February 21. On May 7, 1718, the French established the city of New Orleans on land inhabited by the Chitimacha tribe. File Photo by AJ Sisco/UPI

File Photo by Stephen Shaver/UPI

In 1945, U.S. Army Gen. Dwight Eisenhower accepted the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany from Gen. Alfred Jodl.

Germany's Gen. Gustav Jodl (C) signs the unconditional surrender documents on May 7, 1945, in Reims, France, ending the war in Europe. He is flanked by Col. Wilhelm Oxenius (L), his aide, and German Adm. Hans Georg von Friedeburg. UPI File Photo

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 1954, rebel Viet Minh forces overran the French stronghold of Dien Bien Phu, bringing about the end of French control in Indochina and creating the division of Vietnam.

In 1987, Rep. Stewart McKinney, R-Conn., died at age 56, the first member of Congress identified as a victim of AIDS. McKinney contracted the virus following a tainted blood transfusion.

On May 7, 1994, "The Scream," Edvard Munch's famed expressionist painting, was found in a hotel room south of the Norwegian capital of Oslo three months after it was stolen. File Photo by Bill Greenblatt/UPI

In 1994, The Scream, Edvard Munch's famed expressionist painting, was found in a hotel room south of the Norwegian capital of Oslo three months after it was stolen. Thieves stole the painting again in 2004 and it was recovered a second time in 2006.

In 2000, Vladimir Putin was sworn in as Russia's second president in the first democratic transfer of executive power in the nation's 1,000-year history.

France's newly elected president, Emmanuel Macron, addresses a crowd of well-wishers at the Louvre in Paris on May 7, 2017. Macron won the presidency over nationalist leader Marine. File Photo by Clement Martin/UPI

In 2007, officials reported no survivors in the crash of a Kenyan Airlines plane that went down in a Cameroon mangrove swamp with 114 people aboard.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2014, a Thai court, in an abuse-of-power ruling, removed Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra from office.

File Photo by Stephen Shaver/UPI

In 2017, France elected Emmanuel Macron, of La Republique En Marche! Party, president over Marine Le Pen of the National Front.

In 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin was inaugurated to his fifth term in office despite much of the Western world boycotting the ceremony because of the ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
(FOX40.COM)  The 10-week trial for former UC Davis student Carlos Reales Dominguez, who allegedly stabbed and killed two men and gravely injured one woman, resumed for the second day.

Dominguez is being charged with murder, attempted murder, and unlawful use of a deadly weapon.

On Tuesday, the prosecution presented the jury with graphic photographs of the deep, bloody, and fatal stab wounds that killed the first victim, David Breaux.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dominguez appeared to turn his head towards these photographs.



Several of the 18 jury members exhibited arched brows, one woman leaning her head on her fist as she took in the brutality of these stab wounds.

His neck was stiff, so rigor [mortis] had already started to set in, his arms were stiff, there were no respirations, Patricia Mendes, a paramedic who responded to this crime scene, told the court.

There were several puncture wounds on Mr. Breaux in the lower mid back, and then upon further examination, upper right side, shoulder and upper back, Alex Torrez, a detective with the Davis Police Department also told the court.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cpl. Pheng Ly with the Davis Police Department shared his verbal testimony and body camera footage depicting his response to the murder of 20-year-old UC Davis student Karim Abou Najm, who was stabbed 52 times.

You know, its unusual circumstances and then given the fact that we had had a homicide a few days prior, that also played into my mindset as well, Cpl. Ly told the court.

The video begins in the corporals car, sirens blaring and car wheels rapidly traversing the roads.

He exits the vehicle and sees a man covered in stab wounds on the ground, and another man, who identifies himself as a doctor, giving the victim CPR.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Corporal pulls out a walkie-talkie and requests all units come out.

You can hear the doctor huffing and puffing as he continuously carried out chest compressions until other first responders arrived.

The doctor tells the Corporal he lives nearby, heard screaming, and came outside to help. He also says he saw a 20-year-old light-skinned male with black curly hair ride off on a bike, and gestures the direction the suspect rode towards with his blood-covered hands.

Another woman says she and her daughter heard a loud thumping sound and came out to help.

A forensic analyst with the Yolo County District Attorneys Office testified that the defendants phone had 500 images of knives similar to the one he allegedly ordered on Amazon and used in the stabbing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The analyst shared the GPS and Wi-Fi data he used to track Dominguezs iPhone on the night of the murders, as well as the estimated accuracy of those points.

The defense claims the El Salvador-born former honor student and athlete began to have symptoms of schizophrenia after his first year at UC Davis.

Dominguez allegedly believed he was being directed by supernatural beings.

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.
May 7After analyzing police data about aggravated assaults and homicides, Cure Violence Global has recommended that the city focus its proposed violence interruption program on a couple of violent crime hotspots in west and northwest Dayton.

Cure Violence Global recently completed an assessment that says Dayton is good fit for its violence prevention and reduction model that treats violence like a contagious disease. The organization identified potential target areas of North Riverdale in north Dayton and Miami Chapel in west Dayton.

A Dayton Police Department analysis of firearm-related homicides and felonious assaults from 1999 to 2024 found that violence has been concentrated in areas including the DeSoto Bass Courts in Miami Chapel and the North Main Street corridor, by the Santa Clara and North Riverdale neighborhoods.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Studies indicate that Cure Violence Global programs in other U.S. cities have led to large reductions in violence, shootings and killings, said Mayor Jeffrey Mims Jr., who believes Dayton's new program will launch in mid- to late summer.

"It's a problem we want to prevent," he said. "I don't want to lose one more life."

Cure Violence Global is a Chicago-based organization that helps communities create violence prevention and reduction programs that take a public health approach to combating bloodshed.

The group worked closely with the city to complete a "readiness assessment" to determine if its model could work in the Gem City. CVG says Dayton has the capacity and the "political will" to launch a successful program.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

CVG recommends that Public Health  Dayton & Montgomery County should be the oversight agency for the program, and the group said it can and will help find a community-based organization to implement the model.

Jennifer Wentzel, health commissioner with Public Health  Dayton & Montgomery County, said the agency "has been asked to play a role in addressing violence as a public health issue, and we are working to determine the most effective way for Public Health to support a meaningful, evidence-based and community-centered solution."

CVG's readiness assessment says Miami Chapel and North Riverdale are potential target areas. Miami Chapel starts at U.S. 35 near James H. McGee Blvd. and runs south past Germantown Pike and DeSoto Bass, to Louise Troy Elementary and the Humane Society. North Riverdale is a long neighborhood of homes between Main Street and Riverside Drive, running north from Ridge Avenue just past Siebenthaler.

A Dayton Daily News investigation earlier this year found that North Riverdale and Residence Park (in west Dayton) had the most incidents of violent gun crime in the city last year, and Miami Chapel had more gun violence than most city neighborhoods.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Maps created by the Dayton Police Department of firearm-related homicides and felonious assaults in the last five and the last 26 years suggest that hotspots included parts of Miami Chapel, the Summit Square apartment complex and sections of the North Main Street corridor, close to and around North Riverdale.

The readiness assessment says that information provided by the Dayton Police Department suggests that the nature of violent incidents in the city is consistent with other places where the CVG model has been implemented.

"Shootings and homicides take place in mostly public spaces in the community between individuals and groups who are in conflict for various reasons ranging from the sale of substances to interpersonal conflicts (often fueled by social media) to other 'on the spot' transactional disputes," the report states.

CVG recommends that Dayton's program employ 7-10 team members for every target area, which includes violence interrupters, outreach workers and supervisors and program managers. The assessment says a program in a target area could cost about $565,000 annually.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

CVG's model calls for hiring and training violence interrupters who try to prevent violence by identifying and mediating conflicts in the community before they can escalate. These "credible messengers" will try to link vulnerable community members who are at a high risk of being involved in violence with services like housing, food, employment and educational assistance and job skills training.

CVG says its model helped reduce killings by 75% in Charlotte; 43% in St. Louis; 32% in Baltimore; and 18% in Milwaukee. The organization says violence interruption programs in New York, Philadelphia and New Orleans resulted in sizable declines in shootings.

Mayor Mims said Dayton overall is a safe place, and the Gem City is safer than some other U.S. urban areas. But he said there is still too much violence in the community, and this program hopefully will help change that.

"It makes all the sense in the world for us to do this," he said. "Getting this right means so, so much to every citizen, born and unborn, and every citizen who passes through Dayton, plus those who live here."

Mims said more community members, and young people especially, need to be taught conflict resolution skills. Mims also said the violence interruption program is one part of his peace campaign, and the other components will focus on youth development and community engagement.
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now)  One question plagued a community in Montgomery County for nearly two decades: Who killed Leslie Preer?

Now, a guilty plea could bring some closure.

Cold case murder closed in Montgomery County; man arrested in DC

In 2001, Preer was found murdered in her home in the 4800 block of Drummond Ave. After Preer did not show up for work that day, her employer tried calling her daughter and husband. It was the employer and the victims husband who arrived at the residence to find a violent crime scene, according to court documents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Blood was splattered and smeared across the home, including on the walls and the floor. A table had been knocked over, and a rug that had been moved from the foyer into the living room was found with blood stains, according to documents.

Preers employer called 911 to report the incident, and the two exited after being instructed to leave the house to wait for police. Officers arrived to find Preer dead inside the master bathroom shower stall. She had suffered multiple lacerations to the head and had indicators of strangulation.

As a result, the wealthy neighborhood, home to multi-million dollar houses, became subject to a death investigation.

According to court documents, the perpetrator seemingly tried to clean up the blood and physically carry Preers body from the foyer and into the shower and run water over her in order to wash away any blood.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

DNA evidence was collected from the scene, including from under Preers fingertips, but the case turned cold.

It wasnt until September 2022, due to advances in technology, that the blood evidence was submitted to a lab for a forensic genetic genealogical DNA analysis.

During the course of the investigation, a tip from Jan. 30, 2002, was reevaluated on June 4, 2024, and led police to a possible suspect: Eugene Teodor Gligor.

Courtesy: Montgomery County Police Department

He was known to the victims family and had previously dated Preers daughter in 1998, according to officials. His DNA also fit into the family tree of a DNA match through Family Tree DNAs database. Gligor and his mother had moved out of the neighborhood in August or September of 2001.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On June 9, 2024, police collected DNA from Gilgor from a water bottle he was seen drinking before discarding, according to an affidavit. They compared it to the DNA from the crime scene.

It matched.

Gligor was arrested on charges of first-degree murder and was extradited from D.C. to Maryland.

On Wednesday, May 7, Gligor pleaded guilty to second-degree murder.

Gligor faces up to 30 years in prison, which was the maximum penalty for second-degree murder in 2001 when the incident occurred. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 28, 2025, at 9 a.m.

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 | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
Editors Note: This article has been updated to reflect changes from police on the nature of the police call.

WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  D.C. police are searching for a suspect after a fatal hit-and-run on U Street early Wednesday morning.

Just before 4:15 a.m., officers responded to the 1200 block of U St., NW for a report of a traffic crash. Upon arrival, officers found a man who was unconscious and not breathing after being hit by a vehicle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Felon who discarded two guns while running from DC police sentenced

DC Fire and EMS responded to the scene, and after all lifesaving measures failed, the victim was pronounced dead.

Deadly hit-and-run on U Street on May 7. (Timothy Corley/ DC News Now)



Police are searching for a white 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe with the Maryland tag 1DM5040. Anyone with information is urged to call 202-727-9099 or text 50411.

Check DCNewsNow.com for updates. To keep up with the latest news and weather updates, download our Mobile App on iPhone or Android.

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 | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  The Drug Enforcement Administrations El Paso Division and the 34th Judicial District Attorneys Office have teamed up to bring the first-ever state murder charges in a fentanyl-related case thats been handed down in the El Paso and West Texas region, the DEAs El Paso Division said in a news release.

The DEA says Eric Robles was indicted on state charges of murder and manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance on April 3. Texas House Bill 6, passed in response to the rising number of fentanyl-related fatalities across the state, classifies the act of supplying fentanyl resulting in death as murder, the DEA said in a news release.

Eric Robles. Photo: El Paso County Sheriffs Office.

On April 23, Robles was transferred from the U.S. Bureau of Prisons to the El Paso County Sheriffs Office, just two weeks before completing his sentence on unrelated federal drug charges, the DEA said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The DEA says this is the first case indicted on state charges through the El Paso Division. However, it has had a total of 10 federally charged cases, which resulted in the sentencing of 10 people for distribution causing death.

The 10 individuals received a combined 152 years in federal prison without parole, the DEA said.

The ability to bring the state charge of murder gives the DEA another tool in our belt, said Omar Arellano, special agent in charge of the DEAs El Paso Division. Drug dealers even considering setting up shop in Texas need to keep that in mind.

The DEAs El Paso Fentanyl Overdose Response Team (FORT), a West Texas High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) initiative, investigated the case. FORT is staffed by the DEA, the El Paso County Sheriffs Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of the Army Criminal Investigations Division, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Texas National Guard, and the El Paso Police Department.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The El Paso County Sheriffs Office sent out the following statement on what it called this historic indictment.

The indictment handed down in this case marks a historic and necessary step forward in the fight against the fentanyl epidemic that continues to devastate our community and families across Texas. The El Paso County Sheriffs Office is proud to be part of the DEAs Fentanyl Overdose Response Team and to work alongside our local, state, and federal partners to ensure drug traffickers are held fully accountable.

We will not tolerate the distribution of fentanyl in our community, and we will continue using every legal tool available to bring justice for victims and their families. Our message is clear: if your actions result in death, you will be charged accordingly.

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.
Travelers arriving at security checkpoints at Southern California airports on Wednesday were greeted with signs posing a pressing question: "Are you Real ID ready?"

After two decades of delays and government messaging, Wednesday marked Real ID deadline day for Americans who planned to board a domestic flight. Travelers are now required to show the federally compliant Real ID or another approved form of identification such as a passport to pass through airport security.

Those who flashed federally approved identification  aimed at enhancing security at airports nationwide  sailed through checkpoints without delay. Travelers without it faced a few hoops and, at times, a little bit of public embarrassment before they could board their flights.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some were just thoroughly confused by the whole situation. "I don't get it," one woman said to the Transportation Security Administration agent escorting her through security at Los Angeles International Airport. "What does the Real ID even do?"

Eventually, officials warn, people could be turned away from security checkpoints and unable to take their trips without the required identification. But it's not clear when that could happen.

"We're going to try to continue to educate the public on what they can travel with if they do not have Real ID-compliant identification," said Jason Pantages, the Transportation Security Administration's federal security director. "I think what we want to do right now is focus on not having an impact, most importantly, to the people that are Real ID-compliant and then making sure that folks that do not have Real ID are still able to get through security."

By 9:15 a.m., the first passengers without Real IDs began arriving at John Wayne Airport in Orange County, with several unaware of the day's deadline.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: The Real ID deadline is finally here. How bad will it get at airports as long-delayed rules hit?

One traveler handed his driver's license to an agent in the security line, informing her that he only learned 10 minutes earlier at the American Airlines bag drop that he needed to have a Real ID. In response, the agent handed him a paper akin to a traveler's scarlet letter  a red slip that read "The ID you presented is not Real ID-compliant"  which he had to carry through the duration of the security check.

The warning stated that he'd need a Real ID for his next flight or he "may expect delays."

He dropped his head, laughed nervously and was guided by another TSA agent through a body scan. The man, now a bit red in the face, grabbed his carry-on bag and walked briskly to his gate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Around noon at LAX, travelers without acceptable identification in the Terminal 7 security line waited around a minute to get through the checkpoint. Officials say not everyone without a Real ID was subject to additional screening, but people who lacked a Real ID should plan to arrive at airports early.

Patrick Kingsley, 43, thought he asked to upgrade to a Real ID when he got his license renewed a few months ago, but his card did not have the state signature gold bear with a star denoting Real ID status when he approached the security checkpoint Wednesday.

"This is the first Ive heard about it [not being a Real ID]," he said. "I had no idea."

Other travelers were equally unaware.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Its today?" one woman asked, perplexed by the deadline. "I didnt know this was a thing."

There had been concerns leading up to the deadline that travelers might be turned away and unable to board their flights without the Real ID or another form of accepted identification, leading to mass chaos at airports. But TSA officials said that situation had not come to pass.

"We've had zero issues," Pantages said. Officials did not have specific data about the number of travelers without Real IDs at airports on Wednesday.

Read more: What happens if I miss the looming Real ID deadline? Can I still travel?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

TSA officials said, in general, that about 81% of travelers at TSA checkpoints present acceptable identification, including a state-issued Real ID. Some airport employees reported seeing more passengers with passports for domestic flights than usual.

Orange County resident Brittny Lee, 25, waited about four minutes to get to the front of the security line at John Wayne for her trip to visit family in Nashville on Wednesday morning.

As she handed her Real ID to a TSA agent, a recording of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem advising travelers of the enhanced identification deadline played in the background. Lee, an email marketer, was unaware of the deadline and unbothered, having gotten hers about a decade ago.

"I guess it does make some sense why people might not have IDs," she said. "I mean, nobody wants to stand in line at the DMV."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Real ID rollout has been years in the making in the United States. Congress passed the Real ID Act in 2005, establishing specific requirements for states issuing IDs that make them harder to counterfeit and calls for enhanced verification of the information contained on the cards. The law stems from a 9/11 Commission recommendation that the federal government establish a nationwide standard for identification at a time when national security was top of mind for many Americans.

"I think it's going to enhance security at our airports because before, you could board a plane with a regular old driver's license and it's been possible for people to get driver's licenses in false names," said Michael O'Rourke, chief executive of Advanced Operational Concepts, a global security consulting firm. "This has a more stringent requirement to prove you are who you say you are."

Read more: California DMV opens early for those needing a Real ID before the May 7 deadline

But not all states were on board with the approach at first. Many state governments pushed back, citing increased costs, privacy concerns and the burden that the IDs would place on certain groups, such as the unhoused, to provide the extra documentation necessary to get the identification. The initial deadline of May 2008 was pushed back as the federal government negotiated with the states.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By 2020, most states, including California, had started rolling out Real IDs. But when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the deadline was delayed once again. In late 2022, the Department of Homeland Security said state motor vehicle departments needed more time to deal with the backlog of applications and set the final deadline for May 2025.

Despite years of messaging, some citizens have resisted applying for the new IDs, wary of handing over that much data to the government.

"When a government implements any kind of policy from the top down, which is the federal level, and it's not explained from the bottom up, then there is a lot of distrust," said Faith Bradley, a teaching assistant professor of information systems at George Washington University.

Bradley, who wrote her doctoral dissertation on the Real ID Act, suspects that many Americans will opt to travel with their passport or other forms of acceptable identification rather than obtain a Real ID.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In late April  just weeks away from the deadline  a report from CBS News revealed that more than half of the states in the country were less than 70% compliant in issuing the IDs.

For weeks, DMV offices across the country have been packed with people rushing to get a Real ID before the deadline. About 19.4 million Californians have a Real ID, which is about 58% of all driver's licenses and ID cardholders, according to the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Some, such as Sharon Alden, are still waiting for their Real IDs to arrive in their mailboxes.

The 73-year-old Redding resident said she went to the DMV a month ago to file the necessary paperwork for the ID, but it did not arrive before her flight.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Im hoping its there when I get home," she said, holding up a printed copy of her DMV receipt and temporary license. "But everything is going really smooth, which is nice."

Times staff writer Karen Garcia contributed to this report.

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.
Less than 24 hours after taking office, Germany's new Chancellor Friedrich Merz met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Wednesday, as the two leaders seek to revitalize relations and strengthen joint European leadership.

Merz received a warm welcome by Macron at the Elysee Palace, with both leaders embracing and patting each other on the back, before disappearing into the president's official residence arm in arm.

Merz, who needed an unprecedented two attempts to be elected chancellor by parliament on Tuesday, a historic stumble that some observers say may foreshadow potential discord within his own coalition, arrived in Paris eager to get to work.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Embarking on the trip which will also take him to Warsaw, the conservative politician said he was aiming for "a bit of a restart" with Paris and Warsaw, Germany's two biggest neighbours.

In Paris, he and Macron, who is said to have struggled to get along with Merz's predecessor Olaf Scholz, were expected to set the course to strengthen their countries' leadership role in Europe in light of the radical change of course in US foreign policy under President Donald Trump.

"We will give new impetus to the Franco-German friendship and we will further intensify our cooperation at all levels," said Merz at a joint press conference shortly after his arrival in the French capital.

Europe can only overcome its challenges if Germany and France work together, Merz said. "That is why Emmanuel Macron and I have agreed on a new Franco-German start for Europe."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Macron, who addressed the German leader as "dear Friedrich" and thanked him for granting "me the honour of beginning your mandate here in Paris.

"We want action to be systematically developed together. We want to act together on the issues that we consider to be priorities: Sovereignty, security, competitiveness."

Merz, who considers himself a Francophile, is looking to restore relations with the French, and it was clear from the press conference that he and Macron get on well.

Immediately tackling an issue shunned by his predecessor, Merz said he is planning to quickly begin talks with France and Britain on how to organize Europe's nuclear deterrence in the future.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I see the fundamental need for us to discuss with France and also with the UK the question of how we can continue to provide such a response of deterrence together in future," Merz said, while stressing that he envisions a supplement to the US nuclear defence umbrella, not "a substitute."

En route to Paris, Merz also said he was hoping for a restart in relations with Warsaw, noting that his trip aimed to send a signal "internally and externally" that he was committed to good cooperation with both countries.

Merz had previously announced that there would be a tightening of border checks and increased turning back of migrants from his first day in office. Poland is sceptical about the measures, however.

Merz has met both Macron and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk several times.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As leader of the opposition, he repeatedly accused his predecessor of letting relations with both of them slide.

Merz is accompanied in Paris and Warsaw by new Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul. In a sign that Merz wants the government's foreign policy to follow a clear line, the chancellor and foreign minister belong to the same party - something that hasn't happened in Germany for almost 60 years.
Madeleine McCann vanished in 2007 at the age of 3

Christian Brueckner, a convicted rapist, has long been the primary suspect

A 2016 search of Brueckner's home includes a hard drive that indicates Madeleine is dead, say police

A hard drive police discovered at Christian Brueckners home allegedly includes evidence police say indicates that Madeleine McCann is dead, according to an investigative report by a British newspaper set to air on Channel 4 in the UK this week.

The Sun reported this week that its investigative update is set to air on the network on Wednesday, May 7, which includes new information about a hard drive that contains photographs authorities believe indicates that Madeleine, who went missing in 2007, is dead. According to the newspaper, authorities searched the property in 2016.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

PEOPLE recently looked back at the 2007 abduction and murder case surrounding the missing 3-year-old British girl. No one has ever been charged in her disappearance, though German authorities have said Brueckner, 48, the primary suspect.

Madeleine, who would've turned 22 next week, is believed to have been taken from her familys vacation apartment in Praia da Luz, Portugal, on May 3, 2007. Madeleine, who was just days shy of celebrating her 4th birthday at the time of her disappearance, had been left alone at the family's vacation apartment with her twin 2-year-old siblings while their parents Kate and Gerry McCann dined at a nearby restaurant.

The McCanns were initially considered suspects in their daughters disappearance after forensic tests revealed traces of Madeleine's blood in a car they rented 25 days after her disappearance. However, more than a decade later, police zeroed in on Brueckner and named him a primary suspect in the case.

German authorities previously said they have evidence that connects Brueckner, a convicted rapist, to McCanns murder. Brueckner is currently serving a sentence for a rape conviction.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Braunschweig Public Prosecutor's Office prosecutor Hans Christian Wolters, who was leading the investigation into Brueckner, said during a 2020 CNN interview that authorities "actually have findings that suggest that he is Madeleine McCann's murderer." However, Wolters lamented that investigators had insufficient evidence to convict Brueckner of McCanns kidnapping and murder. By 2022, German and Portuguese authorities announced they had an official suspect but did not clarify whether it was Brueckner.

Related: Where Is Madeleine McCann's Suspected Killer Now? What to Know About Christian Brueckner's Life as He Serves Time for a Different Crime

Metropolitan Police/AFP/Getty Madeleine McCann Madeleine McCann

Now, the new Sun investigative report says that authorities have continued searching Brueckners property for clues, discovering his deceased dog, and a wallet containing six USB sticks and two memory cards buried underneath the animal.

One hard drive was described by police as "deeply concerning," according to the Times of London. German police allegedly told The Sun that during the search, they found more clues  including writings by Brueckner describing the kidnapping of young children. Police also said they discovered photographs depicting child abuse, along with more than 75 childrens swimsuits and toys.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Related: 17 Years After Madeleine McCann's Disappearance, Questions Remain Unanswered: 5 Things to Know

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.

Brueckner has a history of sexual abuse, including against children, PEOPLE previously reported. The German national had first been charged with committing sexual offenses against children in 1993 and was later extradited from Portugal to Germany in 2017, where he spent 17 months in prison for sexually abusing a child.

He later was sentenced to seven years in prison for raping a 72-year-old woman in 2005. He is expected to be released from prison in September 2025.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, please contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or go to rainn.org.

Read the original article on People
GOSHEN  A man on trial for firing seven shots at two men, killing one and wounding the other before running him over with his car, acted in self-defense, his attorney argued.

Joshua Peter Martinez, 24, is charged with murder and attempted murder in the shooting of Romulo Jesus Reyes and Carlos Martinez on Nov. 3. He allegedly opened fire after being kicked out of a Halloween party at a north Elkhart auto shop.

Reyes died at the scene despite life-saving efforts from first responders, while Carlos Martinez was hospitalized for gunshot wounds and injuries suffered when Joshua Martinez struck him with his vehicle while fleeing. Investigators said they found a vehicle in Joshua Martinezs possession that matched the one that fled the scene, and which had blood stains on the front.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They took blood and tissue samples from the wheel wells and the front of the car and sent it off to a lab to be tested, Elkhart County Prosecutor Vicki Becker told jurors in opening statements Tuesday morning. It probably wont shock you to hear it was Carlos. Pieces of Carlos.

She told jurors the shooting occurred after a fight at the party earlier in the night. Joshua Martinez wasnt involved but was later pushed out of the party and told he needed to leave.

According to his attorney, he was kicked out due to a case of mistaken identity. Joshua Martinez and a friend who came to the party with him both walked back to their car, leading to a scene that jurors were told they would see unfold in security camera footage.

Becker said Reyes followed them to make sure they would leave. She said Joshua Martinez took off running at one point, which prompted Reyes to call for Carlos Martinez while running in pursuit so quickly that he lost his own shoes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Something caused them significant concern, Becker said. The evidence will show they were trying to stop him from getting a gun. They were trying to protect.

Joshua Martinez reached the gun in his car and opened fire, striking Reyes in the chest and Carlos Martinez in the neck.

She said he shot Reyes again in the back after he got back up and tried to flee, then ran him over multiple times while driving away.

They returned to his friends house in Plymouth, where investigators later questioned them and found the vehicle, a black Honda Civic, as well as a handgun which they also tested. Becker said Joshua Martinez mentioned the accident but not the shooting when questioned about the previous night.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Were not sure what was going through his head at that point. Well probably never know. But the fact of the matter is, he lied, she said. When the defendant used a gun, he knowingly killed Romulo, and had a specific intent to kill when he shot a deadly weapon at Carlos Martinez and then ran him over multiple times. That is what the evidence will show.

Hes traumatized

Joshua Martinezs attorney, Donald Schmid, told jurors that he was confronted by a large group of people as soon as he was ejected from the party. Schmid said Joshua Martinez was again the victim of mistaken identity as the crowd of around 10 people, who had been kicked out after the earlier fight, made threats to assault and kill him.

They said in Spanish, Te vamos a matar, which means, Were going to kill you, Schmid said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said a terrified Joshua Martinez and his friend just wanted to leave at that point but were followed to their car. Schmid questioned why the group involved in the fight werent told to leave or why the two unarmed shooting victims would have followed him if they believed he was going for a gun.

Reyes reached the car and smashed the door into Joshua Martinez, according to Schmid. He said Martinez was terrified as he opened fire, and could have struck his own friend who was still approaching the car.

Thats how quickly he had to act to defend himself, Schmid said. Hes upset, hes traumatized, he has tunnel vision.

He said Joshua Martinez had no obligation under the law to call the police after the shooting if he believed he acted in self-defense. He said the investigators who showed up at their door asked vague questions and that Martinez chose to use his right to remain silent and wait until he could get legal advice.

After you hear all the evidence and consider it, I will ask you to uphold the fundamental right to self-defense, Schmid told jurors. This was a tragic incident. It shouldnt have happened. And it wouldnt have happened if my client had not been chased.
EIA sees solar capacity hitting 180 GW by 2026, limiting gas growth

The United States is set to see a notable rise in electricity generation over the next two years, powered largely by a rapid expansion in solar energy, according to the latest forecast from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). In its May Short-Term Energy Outlook, the EIA projects that electricity generation in the U.S. electric power sector will grow by 2% in 2025 compared to 2024 - an increase of 100 billion kWh - followed by an additional 1% growth in 2026.

Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register
Democrat Nate Willems is running for Iowa attorney general. (Photo courtesy of the Nate Willems campaign)

Nate Willems, a lawyer and former state representative, announced Wednesday he is running for Iowa attorney general.

Willems, a Mount Vernon Democrat, is competing for the statewide elected position currently held by Attorney General Brenna Bird. She was first elected to office in 2022, when she defeated longtime Democratic Attorney General Tom Miller.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Willems may not be competing against Bird in the 2026 general election. Bird is considering a run for governor following Gov. Kim Reynolds announcement that she will not seek reelection. Though Willems may be competing for an open position, he said he wants to change the trajectory of how the state office is utilized, alluding to Birds commitment to filing legal challenges against policies from former President Joe Bidens administration.

Iowans deserve an attorney general focused on protecting Iowans and standing up for our fundamental rights and freedoms, Willems said in a statement. As attorney general, Ill work to keep communities safe by holding violent criminals accountable and Ill take on corporations who try to rip off Iowans by price gouging or stealing their hard-earned wages.

If elected attorney general, Willems said he would use the office to investigate and prosecute corporations that break labor laws, as well as improving the states consumer protections through the Attorney Generals Consumer Protection Division. He also said he would work with prosecutors and local law enforcement to secure convictions for violent crimes.

Willems said has a background in this field, having worked as a lawyer focused on labor cases as an attorney and partner for Rush & Nicholson, P.L.C., in Cedar Rapids, a workers compensation firm. He has also previously held office in Iowa, representing then-House District 29 for two terms, from 2008 to 2012.

Ive spent my career representing tens of thousands of Iowans who have had crimes committed against them, Willems said. Ive successfully taken on corporations who think theyre above the law and steal wages, require off-the-clock-work, hurt their employees, or violate the rights of working men and women in our state. As attorney general, Ill fight to make sure every Iowan gets the justice they deserve.
May 7 (UPI) -- Democratic Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi announced he intends to run for a seat on the U.S. Senate in Illinois Wednesday.

The 51-year-old Krishnamoorthi, D-Ill., announced his candidacy as he took aim at President Donald Trump and Elon Musk, who has worked with the Trump administration to cut government jobs and programs through the Department of Government Efficiency.

In his campaign video, he called Trump "a President ignoring the Constitution," who is "surrounded by billionaire backers and MAGA extremists, threatening our rights, rigging the rules to line their pockets, wrecking the economy."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He also promised he'd "restore women's freedom to make their own health decisions, to keep guns away from people who shouldn't have them, to keep these extremists from gutting vital programs like Medicaid, that help people, and to stop the chaos driving up costs."

Krishnamoorthi said in an interview with NBC News that he has a "career of standing up to bullies."

"If I had any doubts about running for the Senate, I think they were erased after what we'e seen in the first 100 days of the Trump administration," he said. "A lot of people feel like the American dream is out of reach right now and it's made even more impossible because of the economic chaos that Donald Trump and DOGE and Elon Musk have unleashed. And I and my family have enjoyed the American dream. ... And I feel it's my mission to ensure that it's available ot otehrs, accesible to others."

Krishnamoorthi is only one of a group of candidates who would replace Sen. Richard Durbin, D-Ill., who plans to retire from the Senate, as fellow Democrats Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton and Rep. Robin Kelly, D-Ill., have also announced runs. No Republican candidate has yet announced a run for the seat.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He currently serves as ranking member for both the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and on the Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the U.S. and the Chinese Communist Party.

"Whoever the next senator is has to continue Senator Durbin's incredible legacy of representing the entire state in the U.S. Senate," Krishnamoorthi said in an interview with Politico on Wednesday. "As somebody who's from downstate, who represents the suburbs and who's worked in the city for many years, I think that I bring some of the qualities necessary to represent the full breadth of what it means to be an Illinoisan."
Seven Democratic U.S. senators sent a letter Wednesday to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. denouncing the Trump administrations plan to end funding for a crisis and suicide hotline for LGBTQ+ youth.

We write with grave concerns regarding reports that the draft FY26 Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) budget proposes defunding the LGBTQ+ youth suicide and crisis hotline, the letter begins. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifelines (the Lifeline) LGBTQ+ Youth Specialized Services program provides lifesaving services to LGBTQ+ youth, who face a higher risk of significant mental health challenges and barriers to receiving care than their peers. Given the Administration has claimed addressing youth mental health as a priority, elimination of specialized services specifically designed for at-risk youth is irresponsible. We urge you to reconsider and support continued funding for the program.

The letter is led by Sens. Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin, Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey of Massachusetts, and Jeff Merkley of Oregon. Cosigners are Sens. Ron Wyden of Oregon, Alex Padilla of California, and Jack Reed of Rhode Island.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A leaked fiscal year 2026 budget draft shows the administration proposing to eliminate all funding for the LGBTQ+ hotline. It has received more than 1.2 million crisis contacts since 2022, with a spike over the last several months, according to the senators letter. Fiscal 2026 begins October 1.

The bill that established a 988 hotline for people in crisis, including those considering suicide, was signed into law by Donald Trump in 2020, during his first term. It included the service designed for LGBTQ+ youth, which his administration now wants to eliminate. The hotline became operational in 2022.

After a successful initial phase, Congress recognized the importance of providing specialized services for LGBTQ+ youth and directed the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to expand beyond the pilot to 24/7 operation in fiscal year 2023. To ensure that youth would be able to access the Lifeline by phone, text, or chat whenever they needed it, Congress also increased the programs funding from $7.2 million for the pilot to $33.1 million in fiscal year 2024 on a bipartisan basis, the letter notes. These specialized services are similar to other dedicated programs for veterans and service members, disaster survivors, individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, and people with neurodivergence. This specialized intervention connects LGBTQ+ youth with specially trained crisis counselors, who can provide understanding, empathetic, and confidential support. Despite the requirement for an operating plan for fiscal year 2025, HHS has provided no information about how or whether it plans to use funds for specialized services or the 988 Suicide Lifeline in general. The figure of $33.1 million, by the way, is a drop in the bucket where the federal budget is concerned.

Mary Kay Battaglia, executive director of NAMI Wisconsin, which stands for National Alliance on Mental Illness, recently told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that having specialized hotlines increases the likelihood that those populations will use them."It makes it much more comfortable, knowing you're going to talk to someone that understands the stressors you're going through," Battaglia said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Trevor Project estimates that more than 1.8 million LGBTQ+ youth in the U.S. seriously consider suicide each year, and at least one attempts suicide every 45 seconds. The project's crisis services saw a 33 percent increase in calls and messages on the day of Donald Trump's inauguration compared to the weeks prior. Volume went up 46 percent the next day in comparison to typical daily rates. This followed a record-breaking 700 percent increase observed across the Trevor Projects crisis lines on November 6, the day after the presidential election. The Trevor Project, which is a private nonprofit organization, has emphasized that its services will remain available no matter was happens to the federally funded hotline, but its leaders and other advocates also have noted the need for more services, not fewer.

"The LGBTQ community is under more political attack than we've seen in years," Baldwin told the Journal Sentinel. "That a lifeline for those in crisis would be taken away is outrageous."

Jaymes Black, CEO of the Trevor Project, released this statement on the senators' letter: "Research continues to show that LGBTQ+ young people experience unique mental health challenges and increased suicide risk. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifelines LGBTQ+ Youth Specialized Services adhere to clinical best practices to prevent suicide among this marginalized population, and provides research-backed crisis services from highly trained counselors. Thank you to these Senators for recognizing the life-saving power of continuing to fund these programs, which was passed into law with strong bipartisan support.

The letter concludes, "While we strongly disagree with the many actions taken by the Trump Administration targeting LGBTQ+ individuals, we believe that suicide prevention should be a nonpartisan issue. Elimination of services that help keep youth alive is reckless, and we urge you to reconsider your proposal to eliminate this lifeline."I
Nine Democratic senators sent an open letter to Paramount Globals controlling shareholder, Shari Redstone, urging her company to not settle a lawsuit filed by President Trump  which seeks $20 billion in damages  over what he claims was a deceptively edited interview aired by CBSs 60 Minutes.

This lawsuit is an attack on the United States Constitution and the First Amendment. It has absolutely no merit and it cannot stand, the senators wrote. In the United States of America, presidents do not get to punish or censor the media for criticizing them. Freedom of the press is what sets us apart from tin-pot dictatorships and authoritarian regimes.

More from Variety

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The letter, addressed to Redstone and posted publicly, was signed by Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.). The text of the letter is at this link.

A rep for Redstone declined to comment.

SEE ALSO: Shari Redstones Impossible Choice: She Cant Save Both 60 Minutes and Paramount Global

President Trumps lawsuit against CBS alleges 60 Minutes deceptively edited an interview last fall with then-VP Kamala Harris and thereby misled voters and interfered with the 2024 U.S. president election. In a social-media post last week, Trump claimed the incident represented a level of fraud never seen before in the Political Arena and that his lawsuit is a true WINNER.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lawyers for Trump and Paramount last week initiated mediation to determine a potential resolution to the lawsuit. Paramounts initial offer is unknown, but the Wall Street Journal reported that company execs in recent weeks have floated the idea of settling the lawsuit for up to $20 million. Trump wants much more than that, as well as an apology, according to the Journal report.

In their May 7 letter, the nine Democratic senators wrote, Rewarding Trump with tens of millions of dollars for filing this bogus lawsuit will not cause him to back down on his war against the media and a free press. It will only embolden him to shakedown, extort and silence CBS and other media outlets that have the courage to report about issues that Trump may not like. We urge you and the board of directors at Paramount to make it clear to President Trump today that Paramount will not surrender to his attack on the First Amendment.

The senators letter concluded: As Walter Cronkite, who was described as the most trusted man in America, once said: Freedom of the press is not just important to democracy, it is democracy. Stand up for freedom of the press and our democracy. Do not capitulate to this dangerous move to authoritarianism.

In March, Paramount did the right thing by filing two motions to dismiss Trumps lawsuit, the Democratic senators wrote. The media company called it an affront to the First Amendment that is without basis in law or fact and said: In our system, the remedy for disagreement with political speech one does not like is counter-speech not court-enforced damages under the guise of commercial regulations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Redstone is eager to close the $8 billion pact with the Ellisons to merge Paramount Global and Skydance Media, which  after they reached an agreement in July 2024  is awaiting approval from Trumps handpicked chairman at the FCC, Brendan Carr. Officially, both Paramount Global and Carr insist the regulatory approval process is separate from Trumps lawsuit against Paramount and CBS. But media watchers have speculated that a settlement with Trump would grease the skids for Skydance-Paramount to close.

In February, Redstone asked Paramount Globals board to resolve the Trump lawsuit, including by exploring the possibility of mediation in the matter. Redstone has recused herself from the Paramount Global boards discussions about a settlement with Trump. But she obviously has final sign-off on any such agreement.

Redstone, seeking to avoid Trumps wrath, has urged CBS chief George Cheeks to more closely monitor what 60 Minutes puts on the air, according to sources familiar with the situation. The greater scrutiny apparently led longtime 60 Minutes EP Bill Owens to call it quits and angered the venerable TV newsmagazines staff.

Best of Variety

Sign up for Variety's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Sen. Bernie Sanders and eight other Democratic senators are urging the top shareholder of CBS News parent company not to cave to Donald Trump and settle the presidents meritless $20 billion lawsuit over a 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris.

In a letter sent to Paramount Global boss Shari Redstone on Tuesday evening, first reported by The New York Times, Sanders and the other senators wrote that Trumps complaint  which most legal experts have said is baseless and would likely get tossed out of court  is a blatant attempt to intimidate the media and those who speak out against him.

The letter comes as Paramount and Trumps legal team are currently in mediation to resolve the case out of court, with the companys executive board already laying out an acceptable monetary amount that theyre willing to pay in a settlement. Redstone, who has now recused herself from the boards discussion on the case, has long pushed for a settlement in hopes that it will convince the Trump administration to approve Paramounts merger with Skydance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This lawsuit is an attack on the United States Constitution and the First Amendment. It has absolutely no merit and it cannot stand, the letter stated.

In the United States of America, presidents do not get to punish or censor the media for criticizing them. Freedom of the press is what sets us apart from tin-pot dictatorships and authoritarian regimes, the senators continued.

A group of nine left-leaning senators, led by Bernie Sanders, is urging the boss of CBS News parent company not to settle Donald Trumps 60 Minutes interview. (Copyright 2018 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Besides Sanders, the letter was signed by Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Ed Markey (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR). The senators also pointed out that Paramounts own lawyers recently argued in court that Trumps suit, which claims CBS engaged in election interference with its editing of the Harris interview, is without basis in law or fact and should be dismissed.

Unfortunately, it appears that Paramount is now seeking to settle this case with Trump for as much as $75 million, they noted. In our view, that would be a grave mistake. We urge you and Paramounts board of directors to reconsider.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Labeling the case a bogus lawsuit, the senators said that rewarding Trump with millions of dollars will not cause him to back down on his war against the media but rather it would only embolden him to shakedown, extort and silence CBS whenever the network reported on issues Trump disliked.

Quoting CBS News legend Walter Cronkite, the senators wrote that freedom of the press is not just important to democracy, it is democracy before making one final plea to Redstone and the board.

Stand up for freedom of the press and our democracy, they concluded. Do not capitulate to this dangerous move to authoritarianism.

A Paramount spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The letter comes just two weeks after 60 Minutes executive producer Bill Owens abruptly resigned because of corporate interference, claiming he was unable to make independent decisions on the direction of the show. Earlier this year, amid the presidents continued attacks on the show, Redstone installed CBS News veteran Susan Zirinsky as the interim executive editor overseeing standards, which saw Zirinsky serving as a check on Owens and serving as Redstones eyes and ears on the show.

Meanwhile, after Trump raged last month about two 60 Minutes segments about Greenland and Ukraine and called for his hand-picked FCC chairman to take action, Redstone contacted Paramount co-CEO George Cheeks and wondered if it was possible to delay sensitive stories about Trump until the Skydance deal was sealed.

It would appear that the answer was no. This past Sunday, the newsmagazine ran a lengthy report on how the president is targeting some of the biggest law firms in the country that he accuses of weaponizing the justice system against him, which included an interview with Democratic attorney Marc Elias, a hated figure in MAGA circles.

The president's anger towards 60 Minutes has only continued to fester this week. Four days after the program was nominated for an Emmy for its editing of the Harris interview, Trump took to his social media platform to gripe about the nod while boasting about his lawsuit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

[I]n a total slap in the face to anyone who believes in TRUTH and Honest Journalism, this Fake News Puff Piece has now been nominated for an award by the totally discredited Emmys, the president blared on Truth Social. Did 60 Minutes and its Corporate Parents apply to get an Emmy for an illegally falsified interview, or did other Fake Outlets nominate them for this dubious honor?

Trump added: These antics are why the American People have no trust in the Press, and demand that the Media, very much including 60 Minutes, CBS, and its owners, be held responsible for their corruption and lies, which is exactly what we are doing in Court!
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN)  The final uncertified race in the country from the November Election is over. North Carolina Republican Judge Jefferson Griffin is conceding his race for a Supreme Court seat against incumbent Democratic Associate Justice Allison Riggs after a legal battle to overturn the election.

Democrats say the six month back and forth shouldve never happened.

I think everyone across North Carolina, regardless of what political party youre a part of, should be happy today, Anderson Clayton, Chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party, said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a statement provided by his campaign, Judge Griffin says in part: While I do not fully agree with the District Courts analysis, I respect the courts holdingjust as I have respected every judicial tribunal that has heard this case. I will not appeal the courts decision.

Democrats nationwide are happy to see an end to the months-long legal battle.

In a statement, Ken Martin, Chair of the Democratic National Committee, said in part: This is a righteous victory for democracy and a clear defeat of political gamesmanship. For 200 days, Republicans in North Carolina sought to overturn the will of the people, hijack a state Supreme Court seat, and systematically undermine basic faith in our elections.

North Carolina Democrats are happy with the end result, but worry about election integrity moving forward.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Republicans have already set a precedent with this, and we understand that now, looking across the country, people can say, Okay, we can take up to six months to deny an election, to potentially delay results like that, Clayton said.

North Carolina GOP leaders denied our requests for an interview but in a statement say in part: Judge Griffin deserves the appreciation of every North Carolinian for highlighting the appalling mismanagement, inaccurate data, and partisan behavior from the prior State Board of Elections  failures affirmed by multiple courts, including the highest court in our State.

In her statement, Justice Riggs says in part: Its been my honor to lead this fighteven though it should never have happened.

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 CBS17.com.
With Israel on the verge of implementing plans to permanently occupy the Gaza Strip in what Benjamin Netanyahu has described as the final military assault of the war, Democrats are no closer to a unified message on the issue.

Party leaders were silent after news broke late last week of the Netanyahu governments approval of an operation for the total seizure of the territory and the displacement of all remaining civilians to an area south of the Strip.

An Israeli military spokesman confirmed in a televised statement on Monday that the operation would amount to a wide attack, involving moving most of Gazas population, adding: This is for their protection in an area clean of Hamas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Trump administration has not commented on the Israeli governments threat, which officials say will be carried out if a ceasefire agreement is not reached during the US presidents visit to the Middle East next week. But a spokesperson for the National Security Council said on Monday: Hamas bears sole responsibility for this conflict and for the resumption of hostilities.

With the GOP in apparent lockstep with the Netanyahu government and in some cases willing to openly cheer on the idea of total extermination of the Palestinian people, Democrats remain bitterly divided and consumed by infighting.

As more of the Biden administrations critics become increasingly emboldened by a combination of Kamala Harriss defeat in November and the continued dismal approval ratings for congressional Democratic leadership, a sort of post-op primary is taking place within the Democratic Party.

Joe Biden refused to publicly break from Benjamin Netanyahu even as his counterpart publicly supported Donald Trump (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

It escalated on Thursday of last week when the hosts of Pod Save America, a liberal podcast run by former Obama staffers, tore into the Biden/Harris White House. Capping off their disgust at the Biden administrations handling of the war was a report from an Israeli news channel which quoted the countrys former ambassador to the US, Michael Herzog, as saying that Biden officials never demanded that Israel make genuine attempts at reaching a ceasefire with Hamas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ben Rhodes, a former deputy national security adviser, and speechwriter Tommy Vietor unloaded on their counterparts in Bidenworld.

It is an immoral abomination that will be a stain on this country and on Israel for the rest of our lives, Rhodes said.

Vietor would go on to call the Biden White Houses policy on Israel a total f***ing disgrace and said Bidens unrequited, obsessive loyalty to Netanyahu had blinded the US president to the carnage, and the, like, total immorality of the policy [of Israel] and the US complicity in that policy.

Of the planned Israeli assault, Rhodes added: Theres no military necessity to continue this war.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They were saying at the time, they were working, like, relentlessly  they were not! They were not, an exasperated Rhodes exclaimed.

The resulting firestorm on the left over the Israeli news report reopened wounds that were barely beginning to heal. Every Democratic politician who parroted the Biden White House line about the US tirelessly working for a ceasefire  from Kamala Harris to Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez  now faces a simple question: were they intentionally misleading voters, or being taken for chumps?

Many on the left also remain furious over the former presidents support for law enforcement action taken to end pro-Palestinian protests and disperse encampments on college campuses around the country. That action, they say, paved the way for the Trump administrations efforts to imprison and revoke visas of foreign students who participated.

Bidens defenders, meanwhile, have continued to train fire on a familiar accusation: the argument that left-leaning voters swung the 2024 election to Donald Trump by staying home in November. The Uncommitted campaign led a months-long effort to rebuke then-President Joe Biden during the largely ceremonial Democratic primary contests nationwide, but endorsed Kamala Harris ahead of the election.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Bulwarks managing editor Sam Stein took that position on Sunday as he wondered on Twitter/X: I've been routinely curious if the pro-Palestinian activists that urged voters to abstain from voting or even back Trump would being to feel regret as they watch what's happening in Gaza.

I've been routinely curious if the pro-Palestinian activists that urged voters to abstain from voting or even back Trump would being to feel regret as they watch what's happening in Gaza. @Lauren_V_Egan went and asked them. The answer is... no. https://t.co/6DvSUoElxQ  Sam Stein (@samstein) May 5, 2025

A corresponding article, penned by reporter Lauren Egan, accused pro-Palestinian voters including the Uncommitted movement of giving Trump a boost during the 2024 election in the headline. The piece quoted pro-Israel Democratic operatives blaming them for bad choices even as it robbed Harris of all responsibility for winning over disaffected Democratic voters and declined to acknowledge the months-long deception regarding efforts to reach a ceasefire.

The outlets combined coverage kicked off an avalanche of rebukes from progressives, as it seems neither camp is budging.

I understand theres a narrative to push and a strong reluctance within Team Biden/Harris to self-reflect (no mention here of Times of Israel massive expose last week), wrote former Justice Democrats spokesman Waleed Shahid in a tweet responding to Stein. But headline, photo, and story just dont reflect reality or approach of Uncommitted.

Just as the party was divided when the issue of the Laken Riley Act came up for a vote in January, it seems as if the nations only opposition party is too hopelessly divided to present a unified front as Trump and Netanyahu attempt to force a future on Gaza on their terms. The winner? Donald Trump, who will likely continue to benefit from his enemies division as midterms approach and some Democrats remain more eager to fight their own voters than the president.
OSLO (Reuters) -Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said on Wednesday he would call in the acting U.S. ambassador to Denmark for talks after the Wall Street Journal reported Washington had ordered U.S. intelligence agencies to step up spying on Greenland.

"I have read the article in the Wall Street Journal and it worries me greatly because we do not spy on friends," Rasmussen told reporters during an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers in Warsaw.

"We are going to call in the U.S. acting ambassador for a discussion at the foreign ministry to see if we can confirm this information, which is somewhat disturbing," Rasmussen added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The U.S. is stepping up its intelligence-gathering efforts regarding Greenland, drawing America's spying apparatus into President Donald Trump's campaign to take over the island, the WSJ reported on Tuesday, citing two anonymous sources.

A U.S. State Department spokesperson said the department does not comment on intelligence matters and referred to an earlier comment from National Security Council spokesperson James Hewitt, who said Trump has been very clear that the U.S. is concerned about the security of Greenland and the Arctic.

Trump has repeatedly said he wants to take over Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory in the Arctic, refusing to rule out annexation by force, creating a diplomatic crisis between the U.S., Denmark and Greenland.

The leaders of Denmark and Greenland have said only Greenlanders can decide the territory's future.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, they have found themselves treading a delicate line between firmly dismissing U.S. ambitions over Greenland and trying to maintain good ties with their traditional ally.

(Reporting by Gwladys Fouche; Additional reporting by Daphne Psaledakis and Steve Holland; Editing by Essi Lehto, Mark Potter and Diane Craft)
Uzbekistan gains major loan backing from France to enhance energy efficiency

Photo: French Development Agency

The French Development Agency (AFD) is providing 30 million euros in credit and grant funds to UzMRC to enhance energy efficiency in residential buildings in Uzbekistan. The project includes technical assistance, a credit line, and loans from commercial banks to final consumers. This collaboration comes after trade turnover between Uzbekistan and France exceeded 1 billion euros for the first time last year.

Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register
DENVER (KDVR)  Denver police announced the arrest of 57-year-old Clark Dismuke on Tuesday in connection to a Sunday shooting in Capitol Hill that left an adult male victim critically injured.

Officers responded to a shooting in the alley of the 1400 block of Pennsylvania and Pearl streets at approximately 10:26 a.m., according to police, who said the victim was found and transported to the hospital in critical condition.

Shooting leads to questions of downtown policing

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Preliminary information from the incident indicated the shooting occurred after the unidentified victim and Dismuke engaged in a verbal altercation following a prior interaction, police said.

Investigators were ultimately able to identify Duke as the suspect and located and arrested him later Sunday.

4 injured in downtown shooting Sunday

Dismuke has not officially been charged but is currently being held for investigation of criminal attempt first degree murder and first-degree assault.

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.
DePaul University President Robert Manuel testified before the U.S. House Committee on Education and the Workforce, apologizing for any harm caused to Jewish students, faculty and staff since the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.

Manuel joined the presidents of Haverford College and California Polytechnic State University at a heated hearing on Capitol Hill Wednesday morning, addressing antisemitism on college campuses in the wake of Israels response to the attacks and subsequent war in Gaza.

DePaul has taken concrete steps to ensure Jewish students are safe on campus since the attack, Manuel told the committee, including suspending pro-Palestinian groups on campus, such as Students for Justice in Palestine, and banning another group called Behind Enemy Lines.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The university has also invited a former Anti-Defamation League expert to assist with Jewish engagement on campus, Manuel said, and created a dedicated task force on antisemitism.

In April 2024, student groups at DePaul, a longtime locus of student organizing in solidarity with Palestinians, launched an encampment to protest the war, joining demonstrations on campuses across the country. The demonstration lasted 17 days and resulted in almost $180,000 in damage, according to Manuel.

In the past year, Manuel said the university has made substantial investments to increase security and safety across its Chicago campuses and has commissioned an external review of security programs to improve campus safety.

Going forward, you have my commitment that we are focused on continuing to make real progress and take action, Manuel said. As a person of faith, Im personally committed to confronting antisemitism wherever it appears in our institutions, in our communities, and in ourselves.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A year after the encampments went up on college campuses across the country, House Republicans have placed college presidents on the hot seat to question their toleration of antisemitism at their universities.

Weve held and will continue to hold these universities accountable as they choose to stand idly by rather than meaningfully address the harassment of and discrimination against Jewish students on their campuses, committee Chairman Tim Walberg said.

U.S. Rep. Mary Miller questioned Manuel heavily, calling DePauls encampment the worst of the three universities represented at the hearing. Miller called the encampment, which lasted for 17 days, a hotbed of antisemitism. Miller asked Manuel how many students were punished as a result of their participation.

The moment we realized that safety was being jeopardized, we moved with the Chicago Police Department to abandon the encampment, Manuel said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The university investigated eight student groups for their part in the encampments, according to Manuel. Two students involved in the encampments were suspended and placed on probation, resulting in the loss of university resources, including financial aid, Manuel told the committee, which includes 21 Republicans and 16 Democrats.

Following Millers fractious line of questioning, U.S. Rep. Lisa McClain told the panel, which included Wendy Raymond, president of Haverford College in Haverford, Pennsylvania, and Jeffrey Armstrong, president of California Polytechnic in San Luis Obispo actions speak louder than words, and we need action. McClain zeroed in on DePaul, questioning the universitys response to campus protests since October 2023.

Referencing a pro-Hamas rally on Oct. 19, 2023, which resulted in the physical assault of a Jewish student as well as the encampment that arose on campus six months later in April, McClain questioned DePauls inability to snuff out the protests faster.

It took you three weeks, McClain said. Would you say that that is an acceptable amount of time for action?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

McClain then read DePauls campus demonstration guidelines to Manuel, which say demonstrations should not be violent or otherwise threaten the safety of demonstrators or block access, create excessive noise, obstruct views or disrupt university operations.

When Manuel apologized for DePauls delayed response, McClain shot back quickly that the presidents apologies are a little hollow.

Committee members berated the college presidents over events on their campuses in the last year. U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y. and Rep. Randy Fine, R-Fla., touted their history of having university presidents terminated for their failure to adequately answer questions posed to them.

They can go talk to the two chairmen of the board and the one university president in Florida who no longer have their jobs because of me, Fine said. So I encourage you to keep that in mind when you answer my questions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Several committee members questioned the productivity of the hearing. Instead of engaging in the topic of antisemitism on college campuses genuinely and constructively, U.S. Rep. Suzanne Bonamici, D-Ore., said the committee is holding another performative hearing in the majoritys battle against higher education.

Referencing the rally of white supremacists in Charlottesville in August 2017, where a group marched holding torches and chanting Jews will not replace us, Bonamici noted the lack of hearings following that incident and President Donald Trumps response that there were fine people on both sides. When violence erupted, two police officers and one counterprotester were killed.

I dont recall the Republican majority calling that out, Bonamici said. Lets denounce and condemn all instances of antisemitism, including those from colleagues and the administration. If we truly want to protect Jewish Americans, we need to speak out, regardless of this source, and not turn a blind eye when anti-semitic attacks come from leaders of a political party.

Bonamici reminded committee members of the U.S. Department of Educations Office for Civil Rights as a means to address antisemitism on college campuses. Trump signed an executive order in March directing Secretary of Education Lisa McMahon to facilitate the dismantling of the federal agency.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When Jewish students say that they feel unsafe, we have to take that seriously, U.S. Rep. Alma Adams, D.-N.C., said. That also means upholding civil rights under Title VI, not replacing legal standards with partisan scorecards. That means resourcing the Office for Civil Rights, not cutting it.

U.S. Rep. Mark Takano, D-Calif. said the committees concern over antisemitism on college campuses seemed to be very hollow and empty, as theyre not concerned about actually investigating discrimination claims. David Cole, a professor of law and public policy at Georgetown University, who also testified before the committee, voiced his agreement.

They should be calling Secretary of Education Linda McMahon before the committee and asking her why she has decimated the very office that is supposed to be enforcing anti-discrimination law, Cole said.

Investigations, rather than these hearings, Cole said, are a better approach.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thats what faculty committees do when they consider these kinds of complaints, thats what OCR did until it was decimated by this administration. That is not what I have seen this committee do in eight hearings, Cole said. Instead, all theyve done is bring in presidents and berate them based on the committees version of the facts, which may or may not be true.

U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott, D-Va. agreed. Despite the eight committee hearings that have been held since Oct. 7, there has been no concrete action to actually protect any students from discrimination, he said.

University campuses have always been places to debate difficult topics or hear opinions one may disagree with, which is vital to protecting free speech and ensuring students dont suffer from discrimination, Scott said.

Thats a difficult balance to achieve, and thats why dedicated investigators are key to keeping campuses both free and safe, Scott said. We must tolerate offensive speech even when listeners experience it as deeply harmful, because giving government officials to determine whose views can be heard and whose should be silenced is a greater danger.
CHICAGO  DePaul Universitys President Robert Manuel testified before the U.S. House Education and Workforce Committee Wednesday morning, apologizing for any harm caused to Jewish students, faculty and staff since the terrorist attacks by Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023.

Manuel joined the presidents of Haverford College and California Polytechnic State University at the hearing in Washington, D.C. to address the rise of antisemitism on college campuses in the wake of Israels response to the attacks and subsequent war in Gaza.

DePaul has taken concrete steps to ensure Jewish students are safe on campus since the attack, Manuel told the committee, including suspending pro-Palestine groups on campus, such as Students for Justice in Palestine, and banning another group called Behind Enemy Lines.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The university has also invited a former Anti-Defamation League expert to assist with Jewish engagement on campus, Manuel said, and created a dedicated task force on anti-Semitism.

In April 2024, student groups at DePaul University, a longtime locus of student organizing in solidarity with Palestine, launched an encampment to protest the war, joining demonstrations on campuses across the country.

In the past year, Manuel said the university has made substantial investments to increase security and safety across its Chicago campuses and has commissioned an external review of security programs to improve campus safety.

Going forward, you have my commitment that we are focused on continuing to make real progress and take action, Manuel said. As a person of faith, Im personally committed to confronting anti-semitism wherever it appears in our institutions, in our communities, and in ourselves.

In April, DePaul was sued for accusations of failing to address antisemitism following pro-Palestinian student demonstrations on campuses across the country last year.

____
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A 31-year-old man accused of an attempted teen kidnapping in Vancouver was arrested Tuesday night, according to the Clark County Sheriffs Office.

Deputies said Cameron Parrish was armed when he attempted the kidnapping around 8:30 a.m. near NE 149th Street.

Ombudsman releases scathing report on Portland Fire & Rescue

On Tuesday, authorities said the teen reported that a man armed with a handgun approached her and told her to get in his vehicle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rather than freezing in place, the teen ran away, a move law enforcement officials said may have saved her life.

Cameron Parrish appears in court. May 7, 2025 (KOIN)

By all means, that was kind of the right decision she trusted right away something didnt feel right and she took off the other way, said Clark County Sheriffs Office Sgt. Chris Skidmore.

CCSO put out a call for local surveillance footage in the area to help track him down. Hours later, officers arrested Parrish around 9 p.m. after matching his car to the victims description, thanks in part to quick-thinking neighbors who spotted the vehicle and gave that tip to deputies.

Arrest made for driver accused of intentionally hitting Hwy 26 motorcyclist

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigators searched Parrishs home and discovered the firearm they believe had been used at the time of the attempted kidnapping.

Parrish and the victim did not know each other, CCSO said. Detectives believe Parrish saw the juvenile walking and approached her. The investigation revealed that the attempted kidnapping appears to have been sexually motivated.

Skidmore said its important for parents to talk with kids about how to spot danger and run.

Parrish faces charges of first-degree attempted kidnapping, first-degree assault, and a firearms/dangerous weapons violation. He was booked into the Clark County Jail.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
CASHTON, Wis. (WFRV)  Deputies in western Wisconsin say two people suffered minor injuries when one driver crashed into the back of a postal worker while allegedly waving to an Amish farmer.

Around 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, May 6, deputies with the Vernon County Sheriffs Office responded to a two-vehicle crash on Oneida Road in Cashton, just outside the Town of Clinton.

Deputies say a pickup truck was driving north when he reportedly looked out his passenger window to wave at a farmer in the Amish community. At the same time, a postal worker was pulling away from a mailbox after making a delivery.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

WisDOT: Deer crashes rise during late spring, officials urge drivers to stay alert

The pickup truck reportedly braked and steered left while the postal worker accelerated and turned right. However, the truck crashed into the left rear of the postal worker.

Vernon County Sheriffs Office

Vernon County Sheriffs Office

Both drivers were wearing seatbelts and were treated by first responders but refused additional treatment.

The crash remains under investigation. No additional information was 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.
WILLIAMSBURG COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD)  Deputies in Williamsburg County are investigating a shooting in Hemingway that left a victim injured.

Authorities responded to a reported shooting on Cow Head Road Tuesday, and while en route, were dispatched to Daisy Lane after being notified of a gunshot victim.

When they arrived, they found the victim had sustained the injury in the shooting on Cow Head Road. The victim was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigators discovered that the victim was inside an establishment when a subject discharged a firearm in the building. The Williamsburg County Sheriffs Office has not identified a suspect.

We urge anyone with information regarding this incident to contact the Criminal Investigation Division of Williamsburg County Sheriffs Office by calling (843) 355-6381. You do not have to reveal your identity to leave information, or you can direct message the Sheriffs Office through Facebook Messenger, the agency 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 WCBD News 2.
[Source]

Alex Wong, the principal deputy national security adviser under Mike Waltz, was removed from his post on May 1 amid the fallout from the "Signalgate" scandal, which exposed sensitive military plans through an unsecured messaging app. His exit comes alongside the removal of Waltz, who has since been nominated by President Donald Trump to serve as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations.

Wong's role in "Signalgate"

In March, Waltz inadvertently added journalist Jeffrey Goldberg to a Signal group chat discussing a planned U.S. strike on Houthi rebels in Yemen. Wong, who had helped organize the virtual group for real-time coordination, was subsequently tasked with assembling a tiger team  an emergency task force  to mitigate damage and assess exposure.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite the swift internal response, the leak sparked bipartisan concern on Capitol Hill about the Trump administrations use of personal messaging platforms to discuss classified military operations. Security officials criticized the lack of formal vetting and encryption safeguards.

Trending on NextShark: DOGE member Ethan Shaotran admits Harvard alma mater 'hates me'

The China link

The dismissal of Wong, a prominent China hawk and Taiwan supporter, also followed escalating pressure from far-right activist Laura Loomer, who has publicly and privately campaigned for the removal of National Security Council staff she deemed insufficiently loyal to Trump.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Suggesting a China link was the reason the scandal went public, Loomer targeted Wong specifically by negatively highlighting his wifes Chinese heritage and reviving discredited claims about his family's background and past business dealings with China. While many of her assertions were unsupported by evidence, they gained traction within Trumps MAGA-aligned inner circle.

Trending on NextShark: Deputy national security adviser Alex Wong ousted amid MAGA pressure campaign

Broader implications

The removals of Waltz and Wong represent the most significant reshuffle in Trumps national security leadership since the start of his current term. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been appointed interim national security adviser as the administration evaluates permanent replacements.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While some reports suggest that the dismissals were due to the mishandling of classified information and internal tensions, the White House has not provided an official explanation.

Trending on NextShark: Daniel Dae Kim is first Asian American to be nominated for Tony lead actor award

This story is part of The Rebel Yellow Newsletter  a bold weekly newsletter from the creators of NextShark, reclaiming our stories and celebrating Asian American voices.

Subscribe free to join the movement. If you love what were building, consider becoming a paid member  your support helps us grow our team, investigate impactful stories, and uplift our community.

Trending on NextShark: Vietnamese refugee suffering from dementia dies in ICE custody in Texas

Subscribe here now!

Download the NextShark App:

Want to keep up to date on Asian American News? Download the NextShark App today!
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) Gov. Ron DeSantis holds a roundtable in Tampa on Wednesday to discuss property taxes in Florida.

DeSantis was at the Hula Bay Club with State Senator Blaise Ingoglia, President, CEO of the James Madison Institution, Robert McClure, Tampa resident Kathy Gallow, and Tampa real estate agent Nathan Shirk.

DeSantis announced that property tax relief will be on the ballot in 2026 in order to protect homeowners.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We want Florida first policies. We want Florida first tax relief. We want to focus our tax reduction efforts on what will make the biggest impact for Florida families, for senior citizens, for people that are working hard to make ends meet, DeSantis said.

According to Senator Ingoglia, when Homestead was instituted, 33% of your property was shielded from taxation. Now, 9% is shielded because property values are so high.

The roundtable will be live 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 WFLA.
TAMPA  Its not every day that a Florida Republican comes out against a tax cut.

But thats what happened Wednesday at a Tampa news conference when Gov. Ron DeSantis voiced his opposition to a Florida House plan to cut the state sales tax.

We need to have a Florida first tax policy here, DeSantis said. Any Florida last tax package is going to be dead on arrival.

The veto threat from DeSantis comes as state legislative leaders haggle over Floridas finances. The allotted 60-day legislative session came and went without lawmakers agreeing on how to craft the 12-figure state budget.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last week, Florida House Speaker Daniel Perez, R-Miami, and Senate President Ben Albritton, R-Wauchula, announced they had agreed to a budget framework that included billions in new tax cuts. The governor said it would permanently lower the states sales tax by 0.25%  from 6% to 5.75%.

DeSantis threat to veto such a cut could throw a wrench into the ongoing budget talks.

The governors reasons for opposing the sales tax cut are many. He said the cut would disproportionately benefit out-of-town visitors at the expense of the states fiscal health. He said the sales tax cut wouldnt do enough to help families struggling to afford groceries to justify its cost.

DeSantis prefers a plan to lower property tax rates, which he says would more directly benefit residents. Earlier this year, he called for lawmakers to give homeowners a rebate on their property taxes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This would basically kill any chance of doing property relief for folks, DeSantis said of the potential sales tax cut. Because what are they going to say next year? Oh, well, we dont have the money to do property tax relief.

In response, Perez said the governor is confused. The House speaker said in an emailed statement that the state can lower both state and property taxes. And he noted the governor has supported numerous sales tax holidays in the past.

I give the Governor credit for starting this debate, but hes had months to produce an actual plan to lower property tax rates, and were still waiting, Perez said in the statement. An imaginary plan cant cut real taxes.

Any changes to property taxes would have to come either from the local level or from a constitutional ballot referendum that gets the approval of 60% of voters. DeSantis has pushed for lawmakers to craft such a referendum to put before voters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last week, Perez formed a House committee to study the property tax issue. He plans for the committee to meet throughout the spring, summer and fall to weigh various policies.

At the news conference Wednesday, DeSantis took a shot at Perezs committee.

You dont convene a 37-person committee when youre trying to get something done, DeSantis said. You convene a 37-person committee if youre trying to smother it in the crib.
Azerbaijan sees drop in Iodine exports to India in early 2025

Azerbaijan exported 10 tons of iodine to India between January and February 2025, generating around $560,000 in revenue. This marks a significant decline compared to the same period last year, with exports dropping by 8 tons (44.5%) and revenue decreasing by $412,000 (42.4%). In January-February 2024, Azerbaijan had exported 18 tons of iodine to India, worth $972,000. Additionally, iodine exports also reached Russia, India, and China.

Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register
Gov. Ron DeSantis speaking at the Tampa Hula Bay Club on May 7, 2025. (Photo by Mitch Perry/Florida Phoenix)

Gov. Ron DeSantis is standing by Attorney General James Uthmeiers open defiance of a federal court order requiring law enforcement agencies in Florida to halt immigration arrests under a new state immigration law.

Talking with reporters in Tampa, the governor said the episode raises a larger issue of who can enact public policy in the United States.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hes right on the law, DeSantis said about Uthmeiers decision to defy the court. He has the courage to stand and do whats right, even knowing that hes going to get blowback.

DeSantis made those comments following a roundtable discussion on providing property tax relief at the Hula Bay Club in South Tampa. He said the legal standoff raises the question of whether its the public who get to decide policy through popular elections or unelected lifetime-appointed judges.

Theres a role for the judiciary, but its to decide a case and a controversy before you, he said. Its not to go outside the bounds of judicial policy or judicial role and try to enact policy.

U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams of the Southern District of Florida has suspended enforcement of the law (SB 4-C), passed by the Legislature in a special session in February and signed by the governor on Feb. 13, that gives state officers the power to arrest someone they suspect of entering the state as an unauthorized alien.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Uthmeier has since filed an appeal of that decision with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit.

In a filing Wednesday, Uthmeier asked the appellate court to allow law enforcement to continue arrests as the litigation continues. The arrest by a Florida Highway Patrol trooper of a U.S. citizen in Tallahassee on April 16 under the law drew national attention and the ire of Williams, who had suspended the law on April 4.

The district courts order wrongly binds all of Floridas law-enforcement officers  who are not parties, not the parties agents, and not acting in concert with the parties  flouting longstanding equitable principles entitling every litigant to their day in court,' the states attorneys wrote.

At issue is also a letter Uthmeier wrote to law enforcement agencies in Florida on April 23 after Williams original order blocking the law, advising them in part that no lawful, legitimate order currently impedes [their] agencies from continuing to enforce the law.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Williams wrote in an order last week that Uthmeier needs to show cause why he should not be held in contempt or sanctioned for violating her order. A hearing on that matter is scheduled for May 29.

Bashing the judicial

The governor and Uthmeier contend that the judge in the case has gone beyond her boundaries in calling on Florida law enforcement agencies to stop making immigration arrests.

Shes trying to exercise authority that she does not possess. Fine, DeSantis said. Theres parties to the case and shes rendered a decision even though its a flawed decision that will be appealed.  You cant go out and then say some sheriff in the Panhandle is somehow subject to your order  they were not involved in the litigation at all.

DeSantis criticisms echo those of President Donald Trump, who faces more than 200 lawsuits in just the first 100-plus days of his presidency, challenging the legality of his orders, according to Reuters. The president has referred to some of those judges as radical, conflicted, and rogue.

Background on the suit

The ACLU challenged the law last month, along with Americans for Immigrant Justice on behalf of the Farmworkers Association of Florida, the Florida Immigrant Coalition, and two women lacking permanent legal status.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The law makes it a misdemeanor for adults who came to the U.S. illegally by eluding or avoiding examination or inspection by immigration officers to enter Florida. The groups contend that the law is unconstitutional because only federal authorities have the power to enforce immigration laws.

Since the lawsuit was filed, Judge Williams has issued and extended the restraining order that banned state authorities from enforcing the new law, but Uthmeier says he fundamentally disagrees with her decision.

She wants the law enforcement officers to stop committing arrests, and the problem is the ACLU didnt sue any law enforcement officers, Uthmeier said Tuesday night in an interview broadcast by the Newsmax cable network.

So if they want to arrest people under the law, if they want to hand them over to ICE, if they want to help the Trump administration carry out detentions and deportations, they have the legal authority to do that, and Im not going to stand in their way.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  While court proceedings are playing out in bankruptcy court in Texas regarding Steward Health, Insight, and debtors who are looking for relief after Trumbull and Hillside shuttered this spring, another company has filed a breach of contract lawsuit in federal court.

Read next: Election results

Roche Diagnostics Corporation filed a lawsuit late last week in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio for nearly $300,000 it says is owed to them from Insight Foundation of Trumbull, the entity that took over Trumbull Memorial Hospital from Steward Health.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lawsuit claims breach of contract for $294,646.55 for services rendered and contractual obligations agreed upon when Insight took over operations of the hospital from Steward.

Playing out in bankruptcy court in Texas are two medical equipment companies that are asking a judge to approve them taking back their equipment, which they say is sitting at the hospital. Also, a medical records company is asking for $21,083 it says is owed to them and has hundreds of boxes of records associated with the Trumbull and Hillside.

The Roche lawsuit was filed Friday and Judge Bridget Meehan Brennan has been assigned to the case. A response from Insight has not been filed yet.

Steward Healths bankruptcy and payment interruptions continue to stall operations at Insight locations in the Valley due to funding that has not been released from the bankruptcy court.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Warren city leaders want the state to investigate Steward, and Mayor Doug Franklin sent a letter to Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, specifically asking the Medicaid Fraud Unit to investigate Steward Health Care.

Nadine Grimley and Stan Boney 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.
At just after 1am local time on Wednesday morning, Indian fighter jets took off for the launch of Operation Sindoor, a series of strikes targeting alleged terrorist camps inside Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

French-made Rafales and Russian MiGs were in the air for less than half an hour, firing missiles that crashed into nine targets across the border. The question now gripping the region is whether all of them returned.

The first site struck was the Abbas camp in the city of Kotli, about 13km across the Line of Control in Kashmir, at 1.04am.

Vyomika Singh, a wing commander in the Indian air force (IAF), said that the camp had been used by suicide bombers from Lashkar-E-Taiba (LeT), the group New Delhi blames for killing 26 tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir last month.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In grainy, birds-eye video posted online by the information wing of Indias armed forces, small clouds of black smoke puff up from a scrubby hillside as the missiles explode on impact.

Some of the eight other operations targeted sites much deeper inside Pakistan, including the Subhnallah mosque compound in the Punjabi city of Bahawalpur and an LeT training camp in the city of Muridke, a short distance north of Lahore.

The sites were targeted based on credible intelligence inputs and locations that were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructure and loss of civilian lives, Ms Singh said.

Long-range Scalp missiles, the French name for the Storm Shadow jointly produced with Britain, were used in the attack, alongside Hammer precision-guided bombs and advanced loitering munitions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Video taken from the ground in Muridke shows a fire burning close to a concrete wall, inside what was reportedly the training camp for David Headley, the LeT mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai attacks in which 166 people were killed.

New Delhi said that the strikes were a non-escalatory response to the Kashmir terror attack.

Operation Sindoor refers to the vermilion dye worn by married Hindu women, so many of whom were widowed by the assault.

Our intelligence indicated that further attacks against India are impending, said Vikram Misri, Indias foreign secretary, in a statement on Wednesday morning. Our actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible, he added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Narendra Modi, Indias prime minister, hailed the operation as a moment of pride in a cabinet meeting, according to The Times of India. Ministers thumped their desks in reply.

But by then, serious questions were being asked over whether the attack had not come at a far greater cost to the Indian armed forces than the slick, video-led briefings suggest.

No official confirmation from India

According to Pakistans defence ministry, five Indian jets were shot down overnight, including three Rafales, and a Russian-made Su-30 and MiG-29. New Delhi has not officially responded to the claims.

The Indian embassy in China declared the story disinformation in response to a post on social media by the state-owned Global Times.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the early hours after the attack, images of previous Indian fighter jet crashes were circulated on Pakistani social media as proof of a successful counter-strike. One, from a 2021 crash, showed the smoking tail of a MiG-29 jet.

But reports of jet crashes were soon corroborated from the ground. Local government sources told Reuters that three Indian jets had indeed crashed inside Indian-controlled Kashmir.

The reports mirrored a story in The Hindu, but that was swifty deleted by the newspaper under apparent pressure from the Indian government.

There is no such on-record official confirmation from India, the Hindu said as it apologised for what it called an error. We regret that it created confusion among our readers.

Residents saw wreckage footage

Early on Wednesday morning, Dar Yasin, a photojournalist with the Associated Press, raced to the outskirts of Srinagar, the main city in Indian-controlled Kashmir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He managed to slip past Indian authorities and took pictures of what appeared to be a drop tank disposed of from an Indian fighter jet. He was barred from taking pictures closer to the site of more debris.

Locals told me they saw a huge ball of fire emerging from the accident site and the wreckage was burning forhours, Mr Yasin told AP from the scene. Several locals also took and shared video of the wreckage on social media, before being ushered away from the scene.

Images of a burned aircraft engine appear to be of the M88 engine typically used in Rafale jets, said Andreas Rupprecht, an expert in Chinese military aviation.

On Wednesday afternoon, a French intelligence source told CNN that a Rafale had indeed been shot down in the overnight exchanges of fire.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some 370 miles further south, villagers in Akhali Kurd in the province of Punjab were jolted awake early in the morning by a loud explosion. Scrambling out of bed, they also found the wreckage of an aircraft, The Indian Express reported.

Credit: X/@parteekmahal

We shot down jets says Pakistani minister

Army officials soon arrived to cordon off the area and collect debris, the newspaper said. One villager had been killed by a secondary explosion as he tried to take video.

We shot jets down in Akhoor, Ambala, Barnala and in Jammu, said Attaullah Tarar, Pakistans information minister, at an early morning briefing.

Akhali Kurd is about 50 miles from Barnala.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We also shot down quadcopters and a big drone, Mr Tarar said.

Analysts said that the wreckage at Akhali Kurd was more likely to be Indian than Pakistani. Both countries maintain that no aircraft crossed the border on Wednesday morning.

Until evidence comes out to the contrary, I think its reasonable to assume this is an IAF jet because Indian authorities have had [roughly] five hours to say otherwise, said Christopher Clary, a non-resident fellow at the Stimson Centre think tank.

I dont think theyd be so tight-lipped if a PAF [Pakistan air force] aircraft was on the ground here.

Indian sources briefed the local media that all the pilots who took part in the mission were safe, but left open whether any had been forced to eject.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Wednesday morning, Pakistans national security committee said that Islamabad reserved the right to respond at a time and place of its choosing, taking revenge for what it said was the loss of 26 civilian lives.

But local media broadly focused on how many Indian fighter jets had already been shot down. The bloodthirsty calls for revenge had dampened somewhat since the initial, apocalyptic fury overnight.

Previous flare-ups of fighting between the nuclear-armed neighbours have stayed within careful boundaries of tit for tat.

As they issued frantic calls for de-escalation, world leaders will hope that Pakistans thirst for revenge has already been somewhat slaked.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If it has indeed shot down several Indian jets, Operation Sindoor could be cast as much of a victory for Islamabad as its old enemy across the border.

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.
Originally appeared on E! Online

Sean Diddy Combs isnt the only star mentioned in his trial.

As jury selection in the disgraced moguls sex trafficking trial got underway May 5 in New York, prospective jurors were shown a list of more than 100 names of people and places that may be referenced during the trial including Michael B. Jordan, Mike Myers and Kanye West, according to NBC News.

While the aforementioned celebrities are not implicated in the case, the potential jurors were asked whether they knew any of the names listed and whether it would impact their ability to be impartial, per the outlet. Attorneys did not share an explanation for the list.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The names of women who have taken legal action against Combs, 55, were also on the list, including his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, whose November 2023 sexual abuse lawsuit against the rapper was settled one day after it was filed. Danity Kane alum Dawn Richard, who accused Combs of sexual assault in a lawsuit filed in September, was also listed. (Combs has denied any wrongdoing in both cases, though after a 2016 video of Combs assaulting Cassiematching the description of an incident in her lawsuitcame to light in spring 2024, the rapper subsequently shared a video apologizing.)

For more details on Combss legal woes, keep reading.

(E! News and NBC News are both part of the NBCUniversal family.)

More from E! Online

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As part of the proceedings, individuals summoned for jury duty will answer questions to determine what they each know about Combs and his trial. A total of 12 jurors and six alternates will be selected to determine the hip-hop stars fate before the trial officially kicks off May 12.

Paras Griffin/Getty Images; Mike Marsland/WireImage; Roy Rochlin/Getty Images

Prior to the start of jury selection, Combss legal team filed a request to delay the start of the trial by two months, arguing that they had not been given ample time to review certain pieces of evidence in the case. However, Judge Arun Subramanian denied the request saying it was unclear why there isnt sufficient time to prepare, per Reuters.

Combs is facing five charges of racketeering, sex trafficking and prostitution. He has pleaded not guilty to all counts.

For more details on Combss legal woes, keep reading.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

(E! News and NBC News are both part of the NBCUniversal family.)

Search Warrants Executed on Sean "Diddy" Combs' L.A. and Miami Properties

Federal agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) executed search warrants at Sean Diddy Combs Los Angeles and Miami properties on March 25, multiple law enforcement sources confirmed to NBC News.



The sources told the outlet the warrant was out of the Southern District of New York, and a spokesperson for HSI New York confirmed to E! News it executed law enforcement actions as part of an ongoing investigation, with assistance from HSI Los Angeles, HSI Miami, and our local law enforcement partners.



Law enforcement sources told NBC News the music mogul was in the Miami area when the search warrants were executed.





News about the investigation broke after Combs faced allegations of sexual misconduct in lawsuits filed by multiple accusers starting in November, with the musician denying the allegations.



Sickening allegations have been made against me by individuals looking for a quick payday, he wrote in a December statement posted on Instagram. Let me be absolutely clear: I did not do any of the awful things being alleged. I will fight for my name, my family and for the truth.





Diddys Attorney Speaks Out

The day after HSI executed the search warrants at Combs' L.A. and Miami properties, his lawyer spoke out.



"Yesterday, there was a gross overuse of military-level force as search warrants were executed at Mr. Combs' residences," attorney Aaron Dyer said in a March 26 statement to E! News. "There is no excuse for the excessive show of force and hostility exhibited by authorities or the way his children and employees were treated."



Dyer noted Combs was never detained but spoke to and cooperated with authorities.



Despite media speculation, neither Mr. Combs nor any of his family members have been arrested nor has their ability to travel been restricted in any way, his lawyer's statement continued. This unprecedented ambushpaired with an advanced, coordinated media presenceleads to a premature rush to judgment of Mr. Combs and is nothing more than a witch hunt based on meritless accusations made in civil lawsuits.





And Dyer expressed Combs' intent to defend himself.



There has been no finding of criminal or civil liability with any of these allegations, he added. Mr. Combs is innocent and will continue to fight every single day to clear his name.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement





Details About the Raid Revealed

As for what actually went down during the searches, multiple law enforcement sources familiar with the warrant told NBC News authorities with the Department of Homeland Security seized phones from Combs home in Miami before he was scheduled to travel to the Bahamas, and several sources familiar with the matter added that guns were discovered during the search.





One source familiar with the matter also told NBC News three women and one man were interviewed by prosecutors and investigators from the Southern District of New York about allegations of sex trafficking, sexual assault, the solicitation and distribution of illegal narcotics and firearms purportedly tied to Combs.





Diddys Associate Brendan Paul Arrested on Suspicion of Drug Possession

On the same day the search warrants were executed at Combs Miami and Los Angeles properties, one of his associates, Brendan Paul, was arrested by the Miami-Dade police on suspicion of drug possession, a law enforcement source familiar with the matter told NBC News.



According to the Miami-Dade arrest affidavit obtained by the outlet, Paul was taken into custody for allegedly possessing suspected cocaine and suspected marijuana candy.



Prison records obtained by NBC News show Paul was released on March 26 after posting bond.



We do not plan on trying this case in the media, Pauls attorney Brian Bieber said in a statement obtained by the outlet, all issues will be dealt with in court.



In May, Paul accepted a plea deal, with his lawyer Bieber telling People, "Brendan accepted the prosecutors offer to permit his entry into the diversion program which, after completion, the case against him will be dismissed in its entirety."





Diddy Arrested in New York

He was arrested in the lobby of a New York hotel on Sept. 16, 2024, according to NBC News. It's unclear what Combs has been charged with and if the arrest has any potential connection to the raids. We are disappointed with the decision to pursue what we believe is an unjust prosecution of Mr. Combs by the U.S. Attorneys Office," his lawyer Marc Agnifilo said in a statement to E! News. "He is an imperfect person but Is not criminal. To his credit Mr. Combs has been nothing but cooperative with this investigation and he voluntarily relocated to New York last week in anticipation of these charges." The lawyer added, "Please reserve your judgment until you have all the facts. These are the acts of an innocent man with nothing to hide, and he looks forward to clearing his name in court.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement





Diddy Charged With Sex Trafficking & Racketeering

After Combs was arrested based on the sealed indictment, the indictment was unsealed on Sept. 17.



The 54-year-old was charged with racketeering conspiracy; sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion; as well as transportation to engage in prostitution, according to court documents obtained by NBC News.



The indictment alleged Combs abused, threatened, and coerced women and others around him to fulfill his sexual desires, protect his reputation, and conceal his conduct for more than a decade, with prosecutors saying the purported behavior started around 2008.



"To do so," the documents stated, "Combs relied on the employees, resources, and influence of the multi-faceted business empire that he led and controlledcreating a criminal enterprise whose members and associates engaged in, and attempted to engage in, among other crimes, sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice."

According to NBC News, Combs pleaded not guilty and was denied bail.



Hes going to fight this with all of his energy and all of his might, his attorney Marc Agnifilo told reporters outside the courthouse prior to the arraignment, and the full confidence of his lawyers."





Diddy Is Held Without Bail in New York Facility

Following his arrest, Combs was held at the Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center where he was denied a $50 million bond. The music mogul was also placed on suicide watch, which a source told E! News is a customary procedure for high-profile inmates. He was since taken off. He was assigned the same area of the jail as cryptocurrency fraudster Sam Bankman-Fried, a source told NBC News.





Comedian Jeff Wittek Says He Attended "Freak Off"

Comedian Jeff Wittek, 34, came forward Sept. 29 to say he attended one of Diddy's "freak off" parties around 2010 in a Miami mansion. "It was like eight stories high and it just kept going up," Wittek said on Jeff FM, "and the higher you went, the weirder s--t was going on." "I saw live sex happen that night," he continued. "That's the first time I saw that happen ever in my life. And did I partake? No, but I got f--king drunk there." As Wittek put it, "It's just crazy. I was literally there. I lived through it."





Diddy Accused of 120 New Sexual Assault Cases

In an Oct. 1 press conference, attorney Tony Buzbee detailed that 120 people had come forward with new sexual assault allegations against the rapper. The allegations against Combs, Buzbee noted in a press conference with NBC News, include, "violent sexual assault or rape, facilitated sex with a controlled substance, dissemination of video recordings, sexual abuse of minors." A lawyer for the rapper, Erica Wolff, later responded to the allegations, emphasizing that Combs maintains his innocence. He cannot address every meritless allegation in what has become a reckless media circus," she said. "That said, Mr. Combs emphatically and categorically denies as false and defamatory any claim that he sexually abused anyone, including minors."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement





Diddy Accused of Abusing Minors

One of the 120 accusers was only 9 years old when they were allegedly assaulted by Combs, their lawyer Tony Buzbee said in an Oct. 1 press conference, per NBC News. According to the attorney, 25 of the accusers were minors at the time of the alleged incidents."





Diddy's Mom Janice Small Combs Defends the Rapper

It is heartbreaking to see my son judged not for the truth, but for a narrative created out of lies, Janices attorney Natlie G. Figgers shared in a statement on her behalf to The Hollywood Reporter Oct. 6. To bear witness what seems to be like a public lynching of my son before he has had the opportunity to prove his innocence is a pain too unbearable to put into words. Like every human being, my son deserves to have his day in court, to finally share his side, and to prove his innocence.





Beyonce and Jay-Z's Lawyer Calls Out Piers Morgan Over Diddy Comparisons

Beyonce and Jay-Z's lawyer spoke out after Piers Morgan's TV guest Jaguar Wright claimed the couple had more victims than Diddy. "Theres rumors, and then theres nonsense, and this is one step further, lawyer Alex Spiro told TMZ Oct. 9. This is a formal and pointed accusation of something. Their attorney told Piers to remove that false accusation," which the host later did and apologized. As I noted in the moment," Piers said on his Oct. 8 show, "they were not present to respond or defend themselves. But now they have: their lawyer has contacted us to say those claims are totally false and have no basis in fact.





Odell Beckham Jr. & Druski Accused

In an amended complaint originally filed in Oct. 2024, defendant Ashley Parkham accused Odell Beckham Jr. and Druski in March 2025 of participating in a gang rape of her with Combs in 2018. Both men denied the claims.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement





Diddy pleas not guilty again

In March 2025, Combs appeared in court again to plead not guilty to allegations made in a superceding indictment that accused him of forcing employees to work long hours and threatening them with retaliation.





A judge dismisses one sexual assault case filed against Diddy

After a judge ordered that a Jane Doe plaintiff had to identity herself and refile a lawsuitfirst filed in October 2024accusing Combs of sexual assault, the case was dismissed when the plaintiff did not refile within the allocated time frame.





Jury Selection Begins

On May 5, 2025, one week before the trials opening statements take place, jury selection beganwith the jury being comprised of 12 people and 6 alternates.



For the latest breaking news updates, click here to download the E! News App
STILWELL, Okla. (KNWA/KFTA)  Two independent investigation organizations, Chaos Divers and Depths of History, spent Monday searching for evidence at Stilwell City Lake tied to any unsolved cases.

During each search, the two groups take Chaos Divers boat out onto the lake, drifting along every inch while running sonar in attempts to detect abnormalities under the surface. They are searching for cars that were dumped, weapons that were discarded and, in some instances, remains.

We are hoping that during our process of searching with the sonar and the diving capabilities that we will be able to provide answers, Lindsay Bussick with Chaos Divers said. Maybe not necessarily to a family of a missing person but maybe bring some closure to a case they have here.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Stacy Lee Drake will stand trial for murders in Oklahoma

During their search, once sonar detects something out of the ordinary under the water, Britain Lockhart of Depths of History said they use a device to give them real-time imaging of what is below the surface. Then, if its a submerged vehicle they detected, they can dive underwater and take down information, such as its year, make, model and license plate number before using a magnet that attach to the car.

There were reports of criminal activity in Adair County, the groups said, marking their fourth stop in their region-wide series of searches. They searched bodies of water in Little Rock, Kaw City, Oklahoma, and Muskogee, Oklahoma, before going to Stilwell.

The groups said they werent attempting to solve any specific cold case, rather looking for anything in Stilwell City Lake that could help the Adair County Sheriffs Office in any unresolved cases.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The groups were unable to find any suspicious material at the bottom of the lake as a result of their search.

Bussick said some departments dont have the technology or time to focus on cold cases, adding that their organizations hope to be an outlet they can turn to for help.

We want them to know that were here for them, Bussick said. That goes for any law enforcement agency across the country. If we can help in any way, we want to be able to do that.

Depths of History has been posting videos on YouTube for 11 years. Now, with more than 762,000 subscribers, Lockhart and Colston Gertz have since helped recover more than 300 guns in the Atlanta metro, a World War II-era mortar and the car and remains of Karen Moore, a Florida woman who had been missing for 22 years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I try to feel what the familys feeling, Lockhart said. It is a positive that were giving the family answers, but at the same time, youre giving them the worst news of their life. Its really hard.

Chaos Divers is made up of Bussick, Jacob Grubbs and their dog, Maverick. Theyve worked more than 110 missing persons cold cases, recovering 20 out of those, Bussick said.

The two groups are now turning their attention to New Madrid, Missouri, which is along the Mississippi River. There, theyll be hoping to find evidence that can lead to the findings of two missing persons: Barbara Stoffer and Richard Caleb Powell.

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.
A DNA match helped lead to the arrest of an Ohio man accused of murdering a California woman almost 50 years ago.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The Ashtabula County Sheriffs Office and Prosecutor announced the arrest of Willie Sims, 69.

He has been charged with the murder of a California woman, Jeanette Ralston, in 1977, according to a sheriffs spokesperson.

TRENDING STORIES:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Deputies arrested Sims after joining forces with San Jose Police and the Santa Clara County District Attorneys Office Cold Case Unit.

He is alleged to have strangled Ralston to death with a shirt on Feb. 1, 1977, in San Jose, California. She was found dead in the backseat of her Volkswagen at an apartment complex, the spokesperson said.

We are extremely thankful and proud to be part of the law enforcement partners that worked together across state lines to seek justice for Ms. Ralston and her family, said Ashtabula County Prosecutor April Grabman and Sheriff Bill Niemi in a joint statement.

Almost a decade later, investigators said they linked DNA found on the shirt to Sims. His DNA was also discovered on Ralstons cigarette packs and under fingernails, the spokesperson stated.

Sims will be sent back to California to stand trial for Ralstons murder.

If convicted, he faces 25 years to life in prison.

Photo contributed by Ashtabula County Sheriff's Office

[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
A medical team at National Taiwan University Hospital reports that theyve completed the first beating heart transplanta procedure in which a donor heart experiences no reduced blood flow during surgery, thereby avoiding potential tissue damage during transplantation.

The work is an improvement on a previous milestone, achieved by Stanford University in 2023, which drastically limited the amount of time a heart needed to be stopped during the procedure.

Because the heart continues functioning during the entire process, the medical team expects this technique to raise the success rate of heart transplantationa welcome breakthrough, as demand for hearts currently outpace supply.

In the U.S. alone, nearly 3,800 people are on the waiting list for heart transplant, but as Yale Medicine notes, demand for healthy hearts currently outstrips supply by a significant margin, leading many people to suffer for months with failing hearts. To help ease the stress on this biological supply chain, scientists have turned to new methods to ease the suffering of those waiting for hearts while also ensuring that surgical success rates climb ever upward.

Earlier this year, St. Vincents Hospital Sydney in Australia reported that a man survived 100 days with a titanium heart while waiting for a donor heart to become available. And now, a medical team at the National Taiwan University Hospital (NTUH) claims to have performed the very first beating heart transplant, meaning that the donor heart never stopped beating during its removal, connection to support system, and surgical transplantation. The results of the procedure were documented in a paper published in the Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Techniques

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The system comprised a heart box, reservoir, centrifugal pump, oxygenator, and perfusion tubing, the authors wrote in a pre-proof of the paper. It enabled continuous normothermic diluted donor blood myocardial perfusion from donor explantation to recipient implantation.

The major breakthrough is that the donor heartwhich came from a 35-year-old male who experienced brain death after complications during cerebellar tumor surgerynever experienced cardioplegia (a stoppage of the heart) or ischemia (reduced blood flow). Both of these complications can damage the organ during the transplant process and cause issues down the road.



Previously, teams from Stanford University (the university where the first U.S. heart transplant was performed in 1968) had also published studies claiming that they performed beating heart transplants back in 2023 and 2024. But the Taipei Times reports that those procedures still required very brief ischemic time between removal and being hooked up to a heart in a box support system.

We wanted to perform a heart transplant without any ischemic time so that the heart wouldnt have to stop, and we could also avoid injury [to heart tissue] that typically occurs after reperfusion, Chi Nai-hsin, an attending physician at NTUH, said during a press conference in Taipei. We have demonstrated the safety and feasibility of the surgery.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Post-transplantduring which the heart continued to beat during the entire processa 49-year old who was experiencing end-stage heart failure is alive and well. With this technique, doctors and scientists hope to see less tissue damage during transplantation, which in turn should tick up the success rate of heart transplants overall. Thats certainly good news for the tens of thousands of people around the world waiting for a new heart.

You Might Also Like
Unions representing thousands of educators in Department of Defense Education Activity schools have filed a lawsuit challenging President Donald Trumps executive order excluding certain federal workers from the right to collective bargaining.

The lawsuit, filed Monday in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, argues Trumps executive order issued on March 27 violates the First and Fifth Amendment rights of educators and their unions. The complaint contends the executive order and its implementation are an abuse of authority by Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. In addition to Trump and Hegseth, the Defense Department and Charles Ezell, acting director of the Office of Personnel Management, are named as defendants.

Trumps executive order excludes agencies and agency subdivisions from coverage under the federal labor-management statute if their primary function is in intelligence, counterintelligence, investigative or national security work, and states the laws provisions cannot be applied to that agency or subdivision in a manner consistent with national security requirements and considerations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In effect, the executive order removed collective bargaining rights from about two-thirds of the federal workforce.

DODEA educators provide military-connected families with a world-class education, and they deserve to be respected and honored for their high levels of achievement  not have their rights taken away and their academic freedom trampled upon, Federal Education Association Executive Director Richard Tarr said in an announcement of the complaint.

The Federal Education Association, Federal Education AssociationStateside Region and Antilles Consolidated Education Association are plaintiffs in the lawsuit.

Other unions have filed lawsuits related to the executive order. A federal judge recently temporarily blocked Trumps executive order as it applies to the National Treasury Employees Union, which represents over 150,000 federal bargaining unit employees in 33 departments and agencies. But the Defense Department was not named as a defendant in that lawsuit, so it isnt directly bound by the judges order, sources said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

FEA, an affiliate of the National Education Association, represents more than 5,400 educators and education support professionals in DODEA-operated schools. Those schools serve more than 64,000 children in pre-K through 12th grade of military and civilian personnel stationed in the U.S., U.S. territories and overseas.

The Antilles union represents educators in four DODEA schools located in Puerto Rico.

Students sue Defense Department over book bans in military schools

The plaintiffs seek preliminary and permanent injunctions to block the government from implementing the executive order and OPM guidance with respect to FEA. Or, if that relief isnt granted, the plaintiffs ask the court to direct Hegseth to address the question of whether its warranted under law to suspend the executive order as it applies to DODEA. Hegseth took action to preserve collective bargaining for a subset of employees in four other DOD subdivisions, the lawsuit states.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trumps executive order doesnt just break the law; it violates the U.S. Constitution, Tarr said. The Trump administration is attacking the very people who serve this country by educating the children of our service members on military bases at home and around the world.

FEA members and other educators have used collective bargaining to advocate for student learning conditions, including smaller class sizes and more learning time, and increased staffing of school nurses, counselors and mental health professionals.

Because of the executive order and OPMs implementation, DODEA has already effectively repudiated its obligations under the existing collective bargaining agreement that has been in force with FEA since 2023, and was expected to be in force until August 2028, the lawsuit alleges.

DODEA has canceled union dues deductions from members paychecks, which are normally labor organizations primary source of income. DODEA also has stopped participating in any grievance proceedings that have come up or were pending before the executive order.

FEA had been prosecuting grievances on behalf of more than 800 educators who seek relief from DODEA because of DODEAs chronic failure to correctly calculate their overseas employees pay, the lawsuit alleges. These grievances were pending in various stages of the arbitration process. In cases involving nearly 500 employees, arbitrators had already issued decisions in favor of the employees, and ordered DODEA to make payments of back pay and interest, but DODEA has yet to make those payments, the lawsuit alleges.
Kazakhstan kicks off major spring farming campaign with full resources

Photo: Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Spring fieldwork in Kazakhstan is hitting the ground running, following the agro-technical playbook, with over 2.1 million hectares of land already in the ground. Sowing is highest in Turkestan, Zhambyl, Zhetysu, and Almaty. Millions of hectares have been prepared by the Ministry of Agriculture, including moisture retention, pre-sowing tillage, and spring plowing. Grain, oilseed, cotton, vegetables, and other crops are planted. The campaign has received 100 percent of required seeds and quality testing, as well as large amounts of mineral fertilizers and subsidized diesel fuel. To ensure sowing season success, the ministry monitors and supports activities.

Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register
When armed police prevented the arrest of Bosnian Serb leader Milorad Dodik on April 23, it marked the latest escalation in a growing crisis afflicting Bosnia, one that some warn could be an existential test for the fragile country.

How could police themselves prevent an arrest? The answer lies in Bosnia and Herzegovinas notoriously complicated governing system. The security forces trying to arrest Dodik were from the central state police, SIPA, while those protecting him were from the Republika Srpska, or RS, one of two highly autonomous entities created by the 1995 Dayton Agreement that brought the countrys bloody four-year war to a close. The RS is a Serb-dominated region of which Dodik serves as president. The other entity, confusingly named the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is dominated by ethnic Bosniaks and Croats.

Despite its complexity and deep flaws, the Dayton system, with subsequent amendments, has persisted for three decades. Arguably, it has preserved peace at the price of functionality. Now Dodik, who has frequently suggested that the RS should secede from Bosnia, threatens to tear even this system to the ground, with potentially drastic consequences. The attempt to arrest him was the latest escalation in an ongoing struggle between Dodik on one hand and state institutions and the representative of the international community on the other.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In February, the Serb strongman was sentenced to one year in prison and banned from politics for six years for defying the Office of the High Representative, or OHR, an international body tasked with overseeing the Dayton arrangement. In response, the RS passed laws barring state institutions from operating in the entity and approved a draft constitution proclaiming a right to self-determination, while also announcing plans to create a separate army and judiciary.

To get more in-depth news and expert analysis on global affairs from WPR, sign up for our free Daily Review newsletter.

Meanwhile, it separately emerged that Dodik and several political allies were under investigation for allegedly attacking Bosnias constitutional order. His failure to appear for questioning on this case led to the arrest warrant being issued. However, Dodik has continued to move freely in the RS, heavily protected by RS anti-terrorism police, and has even traveled to Russia, Serbia and Israel, in further defiance of the Bosnian state.

Dodik is an inveterate brinksman who has often sparred with both Bosnian state institutions and Western powers. In January 2025, the U.S. imposed sanctions on individuals and businesses connected to him. But while he has frequently threatened secession, he has never acted on it. And in pulling back from the brink, he has often extracted concessions where possible from the international community and the Bosnian state.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But there is a sense that this time he has crossed a red line.

It is not an exaggeration to say that this is the ultimate test of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a functional stateindeed, as a state at all, says Adnan Huskic, a political scientist at the Sarajevo School of Science and Technology. Nothing will be the same after this, regardless of the outcome.

In Huskics best-case scenario, state authoritiesincluding SIPA, the prosecutors office and the Bosnian courtswill be able to assert themselves to permanently remove from the political scene the man he calls the most significant spoiler of Bosnias European Union aspirations: an outspoken Kremlin agent, a general disruptor and an autocrat who has captured all institutions in Republika Srpska and turned the entity into a financial black hole over nearly 30 years of unchallenged rule.

In the 30 years since the war ended, Bosnia has hobbled along under the Dayton formula, never breaking free of the divisive legacy of the conflict, nor lapsing back into it.

But he warns that any weakness shown by the Bosnian state and its EU supporters leading to watered-down charges, or a scenario in which Dodik continues to evade arrest by moving between the RS and friendly countries such as Serbia, Russia and Hungary, could further destabilize Bosnia and the region, encouraging secessionist and irridentist movements elsewhere, at a critical time for Europes security architecture.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ivana Maric, a Bosnian political analyst, says that this is indeed an opportunity for Bosnian institutions to assert themselves by apprehending Dodik, rather than relying on the OHR, the EU or the U.S., to which domestic leaders have appealed during previous crises. She says it is inevitable that Dodik and his companions will be brought in for questioning. She emphasizes the farcical nature of the situation, with SIPA and other state institutions still operating in the RS, despite the supposed ban.

Perhaps more importantly for Dodik, his physical and political room for maneuver are narrowing.

He and his party have long retained significant popular support in the RS, and secession has wider appeal among Bosnian Serbs than many international figures would like to admit. He has been feted by populist nationalist Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and broadly supported by Serbia. He also talks warmly of his meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin. For manyprobably mostSerbs in Bosnia, the RS is the protector of their rights and freedoms in a country in which they are outnumbered by Bosniaks.

Dodik may also have seen a window of opportunity presented by the return to the White House of U.S. President Donald Trump, who looks more kindly on the likes of Orban and Putin, and is less enthusiastic about engagement with Europe. Yet on March 8, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio accused Dodik of dangerous and destabilizing behavior that is undermining Bosnia and Herzegovinas institutions and threatening its security and stability.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Closer to home, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, another populist strongman, has offered limited support, while Bosnian Croat leader Dragan Covic, who has regularly found common cause with Dodik, has condemned his actions and called on him to respect state institutions.

Meanwhile, says Maric, the most vocal opposition comes not from Bosniak partieswhich Dodik often uses as foils to shore up support, and vice versabut rather from RS opposition parties, as within the RS, disquiet is rising.

People are deeply unsettled, says Aleksandar Trifunovic, a journalist and commentator based in Banja Luka, the entitys de facto capital. Since Dodiks conviction, tensions have risen sharply. Trifunovic says a new draft RS Constitution that has been announced would, if adopted, effectively usher in a dictatorshipand thats putting it mildly.

Luka says Dodik often seeks to create chaos and project the illusion that he is in control as part of his strategy. But what makes this moment truly dangerous is that he is not in control, he adds. Not of the situation, nor of its possible outcomes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trifunovic says that even Dodik himself does not know his next move. But external actorsnamely, the U.S. and EUare distracted, if they have not given up on the country altogether.

The international community has for decades now had only one real expectation from Bosnia and Herzegovina: dont start another war. Thats it, he says. Its clear that a society which, 30 years after the war, has failed to move toward the European Uniona society trapped in perpetual conflict and one that continues to elect politicians who thrive on division and exclusionno longer interests anyone.

In these circumstances, one cannot rule out further escalation. Yet in the 30 years since the war ended, Bosnia has hobbled along under the Dayton formula, never breaking free of the divisive legacy of the conflict, nor lapsing back into it.

The curiosity of Bosnia and Herzegovina is that we have problems that are presented as unsolvable, crises that look like a war will break out tomorrow, conflicts after which you would think that there is no way for these parties and politicians to sit down at the same table again, says Maric. And then everything is solved or forgotten overnight, and everyone pretends that nothing happened.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The current crisis shines a harsh light on the reality that Bosnias political classes of all ethnicities, as well as the countrys international guardians, have failed to both overcome the grim legacy of the war, and reform or replace the structures put in place to end it. After 30 years, what are the chances of them doing so now?

Bosnia is a persistent problem that constantly threatens to boil over, but never seems to explode, says James Ker-Lindsay, an academic focusing on Southeast Europe. With so many other immediate crises on the agenda, theres just no sense that this is an immediate problem that requires high-level political bandwidth. With international officials having all but given up, and repeated attempts at internationally brokered reform having stalled, Ker-Lindsay says the country is stuck in deep political deadlock.

Those predicting Bosnias imminent collapse have been proven wrong repeatedly over the past three decades. But this crisis need not be terminal to do real damage to Bosnia, the region and Europe as a whole.

Andrew MacDowall is an independent consultant and writer. He is the founding director of the strategic consultancy Toros Advisory and has written extensively for publications including the Financial Times, The Guardian and Politico Europe.

The post Dodik Is Pushing Bosnia to the Breaking PointAgain appeared first on World Politics Review.
WVIK, 90.3 FM, has become a mainstay on the Quad Cities air waves.

WVIK is an Illinois NPR member station.

We launched in 1980, said Jared Johnson, WVIKs general manager.

Last week, though, WVIKs future seemed a bit uncertain.

President Donald Trump signed an executive order to stop federal funding to both NPR and PBS. In the executive statement, the president said neither entity presents a fair, accurate, or unbiased portrayal of current events.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We knew something was coming, Johnson said. They had the hearings about PBS and NPR a couple months ago.

A small portion of WVIKs budget comes from federal funding.

In this most recent year about 13 percent of our funding came from CPB, the corporation for public broadcasting, Johnson said. Local coverage is the most trusted coverage anywhere in the us. Weve got a news director and news editor that vet everything we do here locally. Theres nothing more important than local journalism for a community like ours, and we need to do everything we can to strengthen it and not to weaken it.



WVIKs remaining funding comes from local sources.

Johnson doesnt expect the executive order to have immediate effects on WVIKs staffing or programming.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If the executive order were to actually take effect, we would just not be allowed to spend that money on NPR, Johnson said. We would of course have all of the funds that we collect from local listeners, and other local sources, that we could spend on NPR, and we would just be able to use the CPB funds in other ways.

Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin criticizes the executive order.

Democracy cannot survive in silence, Durbin said. We must continue to allow NPR and PBS to provide essential news, information and life-saving services to the American public.

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 WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.
The deadline has arrived for a REAL ID, but not everyone needs one.

Who doesn't need a REAL ID?

For starters, no, everyone in the United States does not need a REAL ID. It's just required for domestic travel and access to some federal facilities.

"As of May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities," the U.S. Department of Homeland Security wrote - but not all of them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For example, children do not need a REAL ID to fly.

"TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States. Contact the airline for questions regarding specific ID requirements for travelers under 18," DHS wrote.

People in five U.S. states can use an enhanced driver's license instead of a REAL ID, according to DHS.

"Enhanced Drivers Licenses (EDL) issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards and will also be accepted for official REAL ID purposes," a government fact sheet explains.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you need a REAL ID but don't have one after May 7, you will still be able to fly.

"Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant at TSA checkpoints and who do not have another acceptable alternative form of ID will be notified of their non-compliance, may be directed to a separate area and may receive additional screening," the government noted.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem reiterated that guidance in an appearance before Congress.

In addition, the government has outlined a list of alternatives to a REAL ID. For example, people can use a passport, enhanced tribal card, Veteran Health Identification Card, or a host of other documents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Travelers still need a passport to travel internationally in addition to a REAL ID, according to DHS.

The Office of the Illinois Secretary of State reminded people that they do not need a REAL ID to drive, vote, open a bank account, "apply for or receive federal benefits," enter the post office, or visit a hospital.

Related: REAL ID Alternatives Announced as Deadline Looms for Air Travelers
A staffer with Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency allegedly helped conduct April layoffs at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, including the dismissal of the same ethics lawyers who reportedly warned him days earlier over his stock holdings in companies that were barred under ethics rules.

In early April, agency ethics lawyers warned Gavin Kliger, 25, that his stock holdings included companies on the agencys Prohibited Holdings list, ProPublica reports.

Kliger, who has reportedly been at the consumer watchdog agency with DOGE since March, holds two cryptocurrencies as well as stock in Apple, Tesla, Google parent Alphabet, Berkshire Hathaway, and Alibaba, according to disclosures and a review by ProPublica. Taken together, the holdings are worth as much as $715,000.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By April 17, mass layoffs were underway at the agency, including the bureaus ethics officer and the officials entire team of lawyers, according to court records .

In the lead-up to the firings, which are being challenged in court, Kliger spoke with senior officials about getting administrative permissions that would help him manage and execute the reduction in force, according to the records.

The White House insisted to ProPublica that Kliger did not even manage the layoffs, making this entire narrative an outright lie.

Government watchdogs are probing DOGE efforts at CFPB (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

An anonymous official at the consumer agency filed a sworn declaration that Kliger was directly involved, claiming that he kept the team up for 36 hours straight to ensure that the notices would go out yesterday (April 17).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The official added: Gavin was screaming at people he did not believe were working fast enough to ensure they could go out on this compressed timeline, calling them incompetent.

The Independent has contacted Kliger for comment.

Kliger previously made headlines over reports that before his government role, he boosted controversial content on social media, including posts from white supremacist Nick Fuentes.

In late April, a federal appeals court paused the Trump administrations attempt to fire about 90 percent of the consumer agencys workforce in the face of a lawsuit from an employee union and consumer advocates.

Two watchdogs, the Government Accountability Office and the agencys own Office of the Inspector General, are reviewing DOGE actions at the CFPB, Representative Maxine Waters announced this week.
In a hearing on Wednesday, Democrats suggested Marjorie Taylor Greene had engaged in insider trading.

It caused the hearing to be suspended for 20 minutes.

Greene's trades during the April tariff dip have drawn scrutiny from Democrats.

Democrats suggested at a House hearing on Wednesday that Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene had engaged in insider trading, derailing the proceedings for roughly 20 minutes.

The DOGE subcommittee, which is chaired by the Georgia Republican, was holding a hearing on transgender athletes competing in fencing and other sports.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As Democrats on the panel criticized Greene, two of them  Reps. Greg Casar and Jasmine Crockett, both of Texas  brought up recent stock trades made by the congresswoman.

"We're here because Chairwoman Marjorie Taylor Greene thinks that if she picks on vulnerable people like trans folks, she can avoid having a discussion about the allegations of insider trading against her," Casar said.

Greene purchased tens of thousands of dollars in stock in an array of companies between April 2 and 9, when President Donald Trump's tariff announcement and subsequent pause led to large shifts in the stock market. The congresswoman has maintained that the trades were made by an independent financial advisor.

"That's something that my portfolio manager does for me, and he did a great job," the congresswoman told the Georgia Recorder last month. "Guess what he did? He bought the dip."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Democrats have argued that Greene and other Republicans close to Trump may have known about the president's tariff moves ahead of time, allowing them to profit from nonpublic information.

When Crockett brought up Greene's trades, she displayed a poster featuring the congresswoman's face.

WOW: Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) appears to suggest Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) engaged in insider trading during the "Keeping Men Out of Womens Sports" hearing. pic.twitter.com/u9LY8zVZC5  Off The Press (@OffThePress1) May 7, 2025

"Let's look at fraud," Crockett said. "We could investigate whether the White House and members of this subcommittee engaged in insider trading and market manipulation. Maybe it's a coincidence that the chairwoman brought hundreds of thousands of dollars' worth of stock the day before Trump announced a 90-day pause on tariffs, but I guess we'll never know."

Republican Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina then asked to take Crockett's words down, saying the Texas congresswoman was "alleging a criminal act." That led to the committee suspending its business to review Crockett's remarks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Eventually, Greene called the meeting back to order.

The Georgia Republican asked Mace to withdraw her motion, saying that the Texas Democrat's remarks were "borderline" and that it was important to move on "in the interest of making sure that we stay on track, instead of getting sidetracked by Democrats' nonstop fake accusations."

Read the original article on Business Insider
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  UPDATE (May 7, 2025, at 5:07 p.m.): The Sioux City Police Department said that one teen is facing charges after dogs were rescued from an illegal dog rescue.

The police department told KCAU 9 that a 13-year-old was charged with interference with official acts, a simple misdemeanor. She was charged after she tried to run back in the house as officials were retrieving the dogs.

The three teens currently do not face any charges relating to running a fake rescue.

PREVIOUS (May 6, 2025, at 6:08 p.m.): A group of teenagers could face charges of animal neglect and abandonment after they were found to be running an illegal dog rescue.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to officials with the Sioux City Animal Adoption and Rescue Center (SCAARC), they received a call regarding dogs in a red-tagged home on the 4200 block of West 23rd Street in Sioux City. Officials entered the property and found six dogs.

There was no dog food at this location. We didnt find any bowls out for water or anything like that, Cindy Rarrat with SCAARC said. Through our investigation, we have impounded eight animals that were taken in by these individuals as a rescue, parading themselves as a rescue.

SCAARC worked with the Sioux City Police Department to locate the teenagers behind the dog shelter. The investigation is ongoing, but Rarrat said she intends to press charges.

Story continues below

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Three of the eight dogs were microchipped and have been returned to their original owners, who came from Moville, Fort Dodge, and Des Moines and surrendered their dogs to what they thought was a trustworthy rescue.

These people were scammed into believing that this was a reputable rescue that they were getting their dog sent to. And it was not, Rarrat said. You have to have a location. You have to have shelter. You have to have food and water and the vaccinations. You have to have them fixed per state law. When you do adopt them, you have to have the appropriate paperwork per state law.

Rarrat want this situation to serve as a reminder to always verify a shelter before you give up your pet.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Iowa DOTs Highway Helper program coming to Sioux City

If you are going to give up your animal, make sure its a reputable organization and you have researched, Rarrat said. And basically, if your gut tells you its not good, its probably not a good rescue.

Charges are still pending against the teens. KCAU 9 will update this story as more information is 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 SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.
Content warning: Some of the following topics and descriptions may be disturbing. Readers discretion advised.

FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now)  A 35-year-old man was arrested and charged after he allegedly traveled to the D.C. with the intent to engage in sexual contact with a 6-year-old girl, according to the District of Columbias U.S. Attorneys Office.

Timothy Brockerman, of Herndon, Virginia, was arrested on April 29. According to court documents, on April 21, an undercover officer was working with the MPD-FBI Child Exploitation Task Force to monitor an online chat group known to be the trading ground for images and videos of children.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Felon who discarded two guns while running from DC police sentenced

During the conversation with the undercover officer, Brockerman showed interest in sexually abusing children. The officer told Brockerman that he had a child whom he had access to. Brockerman then indicated that he was willing to travel to D.C. to sexually abuse the child, according to officials.

On April 29, police placed Brockerman under arrest after he traveled from his home in Virginia and met the undercover officer at a pre-arranged location in Washington, D.C.

Brockerman is charged with travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
May 6The Department of Justice has opened an investigation into a new Washington law that designates members of the clergy as mandatory reporters of child abuse.

The law, which passed out of the Legislature this session, was signed Friday by Gov. Bob Ferguson and is set to take effect on July 27. Washington is one of five states that currently does not designate clergy as mandatory reporters.

Under state law, a variety of other professions that frequently interact with children, including police officers, nurses and school personnel, are required to report incidents of suspected abuse within 48 hours, with failure to do so considered a gross misdemeanor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Legislators have considered adding clergy to the list of mandatory reporters in recent years, though the efforts stalled. The legislation does not include an exemption for the information learned during penitential communication, or communication between clergy and a congregation member, such as in the confession of sins.

On Monday, the Department of Justice said the new law "appears on its face to violate the First Amendment."

"SB 5375 demands that Catholic Priests violate their deeply held faith in order to obey the law, a violation of the Constitution and a breach of the free exercise of religion cannot stand under our Constitutional system of government," Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division said in a statement. "Worse, the law appears to single out clergy as not entitled to assert applicable privileges, as compared to other reporting professionals. We take this matter very seriously and look forward to Washington State's cooperation with our investigation."

The bill passed along near-party lines in the Senate in February, with two Democrats joining all Republicans in voting against the legislation. It found some support among Republicans during a vote in the House of Representatives, with five members joining with the chamber's Democrats in supporting the proposal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As he signed the bill into law on Friday, Ferguson said the legislation "protects Washingtonians from abuse and harm."

A Catholic, Ferguson said his uncle served as a Jesuit priest "for many, many, many years here in the Pacific Northwest."

"I obviously have a personal perspective on this," Ferguson said. "But protecting our kids first is the most important thing."

Ferguson added that the need for the law was "very clear" and that it was "very important legislation."

Sen. Noel Frame, D-Seattle, the bill's sponsor, introduced similar legislation in 2023 and 2024. In 2023, a proposal that did not contain an exemption for confidential penitential communication failed. The version proposed by Frame last year would have established a "duty to warn" for abuse disclosed in penitential communication, though that, too, failed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ahead of the vote in the Senate, Frame told lawmakers that the bill is about "checking on the child."

"This is about making sure we, the state, have the information we need to go make sure that kid is OK," Frame said. "What our mandatory reporter laws do is, it compels our Department of Children, Youth and Families or law enforcement to further investigate and substantiate that report, but in the meantime, make sure that child is safe."

Sen. Leonard Christian, R-Spokane Valley, voted against the proposal, saying on the Senate floor that the bill could ultimately put "pastors in prison."

"It sets up the legal framework to put pastors in prison," Christian said. "But not for their actions, per se, but rather because of knowledge they may have gained in their job. It's a very slippery slope."

According to the Department of Justice, the investigation will be led by the agency's Civil Rights Division.
Officials at Logan International Airport in Boston found child sex abuse material on a Dominican mans phone, leading to his arrest and charges, United States Attorney Leah Foleys office said.

Jorge Junior Alvarez Rodriguez, 21, was charged with one count of transportation of child pornography.

On May 3, Alvarez Rodriguez landed at Logan after a flight from Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic, Foleys office said in a statement. He was flagged for a secondary screening where his cell phone was reviewed and found with multiple files containing child sex abuse material.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Several of these files depicted children between 4 and 7 years old, Foleys office said.

The charge of transportation of child pornography provides for a sentence of at least five years and up to 20 years in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.

More local crime stories

Read the original article on MassLive.
Britain owes Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi a debt of gratitude.

Not only has he signed a deal expected to grow the UK economy by 5 billion a year, one which will increase trade between our two nations by 40 per cent. Tariffs on British car exports will be slashed by 90 per cent. UK food and drink will not pay any tariffs.

Not only has this agreement strengthened the case for free trade in an increasingly protectionist world, a timely reminder that removing barriers to trade is one of the most powerful drivers of prosperity, which allows countries to specialise, brings prices down for consumers, and encourages mechanisation and innovation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But this deal has also exposed the great national insurance lie. Starmer has agreed to exempt Indian workers seconded to the UK from paying NICs for up to three years. The move has prompted accusations of a two-tier tax system from two-tier Keir and fears Britain will see an influx of Indian workers it cannot possibly sustain.

Preempting such concerns, Delhi has pointed out those workers wont be receiving any of the benefits NI is supposed to pay for, including pensions and welfare payments. What Delhi doesnt appear to realise is that British workers dont receive those benefits either, at least not in the way they are told.

Since NI was introduced it has been framed as a contributory system. You work, you pay in and, at the end, can access the pot of money youve accumulated for retirement. This is hokum.

Though politicians are loathe to admit it, NI isnt a saving scheme, its a glorified second income tax. The money paid in by workers today funds the pensions of retirees today. Contributions arent hypothecated, theyre spent by profligate governments. And if you think the situation now, where 1 in every 8 of public spending is on the triple lock, is unsustainable, just wait until our worker: grey ratio worsens.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The NI agreement is being defended on grounds it amounts to double taxation, the exact same argument Rishi Sunak made last year when he pledged to set Britain on a path towards abolishing the levy. At the time, Labour behaved as though such a move was the height of fiscal recklessness. Darren Jones, then shadow chief secretary to the Treasury, sniffed: Just like Liz Truss, you have so far refused to set out how you are going to pay for this latest shake of the magic money tree.

Who knew this Labour government would have such scruples about double taxation? Will they now change the levies on dividends, paid out by companies already subject to 25 per cent corporation tax? Or on the interest on savings which exceed the paltry allowance? Or on inheritance tax, the most egregious and widely despised form of double taxation?

So my thanks to India, for giving Britain a post-Brexit boost and exposing our rotten, dishonest tax system. How superb that it is former Remainer-in-chief Keir Starmer who is seizing the great opportunities provided by our departure from the EU.

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.
MILAN, Italy, May 7. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is expected to approve Ayakchi Dam project in Uzbekistan next year, Yasmin Siddiqi, Director for Agriculture, Food, Nature, and Rural Development in Central and West Asia at the Asian Development Bank, said during a briefing held as part of the 58th ADB Annual Meeting, Trends special correspondent reports from Milan.

ADB and Uzbekistan have a long history of working in water resources and agriculture. Last Monday, I was in Tashkent, meeting with the Ministry of Water Resources to discuss the Glaciers to Farms program. We're very pleased to say that, overall, the government agencies have been extremely proactive and interested. They are extremely aware of the challenges they're facing due to glacial melt and the implications,

she said.

Siddiqi noted that Uzbekistan already faces high levels of water scarcity and also land degradation, saline soils, and saline water.

Yet, a large part of the population is reliant on agriculture and, of course, the country's economy, particularly on the cultivation of cotton and other key crops. In the case of Uzbekistan, we've worked with the Ministry of Water Resources and also the Ministry of Environment and Ecology, and also with the drinking water agencies, to come up with a potential projects pipeline, she said.

Siddiqi noted that the government of Uzbekistan has identified for ADB suitable initiatives and investments that they would like to get support from ADB and the Green Climate Fund under this Glaciers to Farms initiative.

And I can just share one example of a project that ADB will be supporting. We expect this to be approved by ADB's board next year. And this is on the Ayakchi Dam. And it's looking again at managing water resources, because what we want to avoid is water just flooding through a river and being wasted.

And in this case, in this project, we're looking to do some possible innovative approaches to power generation, such as floating solar. So, our aim, where possible, is to bring technologies and innovations to the client, to the government. Also look at installing early warning systems on the Amudaria River, because it's really important that the government has data available, she explained.
The post Donald Trump Aparently Got His Idea to Reopen Alcatraz After Watching PBS appeared first on Consequence.

On Sunday, Donald Trump announced his plans to reopen Alcatraz as a maximum security prison to institutionalize Americas vicious, violent and repeat Criminal Offenders. According to The Hollywood Reporter, its possible he got the idea while  wait for it  watching Escape From Alcatraz at Mar-a-Lago on a local PBS-affiliated channel.

The Hollywood Reporter surmises that Trump may have watched Escape From Alcatraz, a 1978 film starring Clint Eastwood as a runaway prisoner from the high security penitentiary on WLRN, a PBS affiliated channel which services South Florida. Escape From Alcatraz was broadcast three times over the weekend, twice on Saturday and once more the following morning. Trump posted his statement on Truth Social just before 11:00 a.m. ET on Sunday, revealing his plans to lock up the most dangerous criminals. It should go without saying that the irony is striking, considering Trumps current efforts to PBS.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

America has been plagued by vicious, violent and repeat Criminal Offenders, the dregs of society, who will never contribute anything other than Misery and Suffering, Trump wrote on Truth Social. When we were a more serious Nation, in times past, we did not hesitate to lock up the most dangerous criminals, and keep them far away from anyone they could harm That is why, today, I am directing the Bureau of Prisons, together with the Department of Justice, FBI, and Homeland Security, to reopen a substantially enlarged and rebuilt ALCATRAZ.

Later, Trump told reporters he views Alcatraz as an important symbol of the past. Right now, its a big hulk thats sitting there rusting and rotting It sort of represents something thats both horrible and beautiful, and strong and miserable. Weak. Its got a lot of qualities that are interesting.

Maintaining Alcatrez became both financially and architecturally unsustainable, leading to the prisons closure in 1963. It later reopened as a tourist attraction in 1973. Today, Alcatraz Island is managed by the National Park Service and attracts up to one million visitors annually, according to the Bureau of Prisons.

US Bureau of Prisons Director William K. Marshall III stated that the BOP plans to pursue all avenues to achieve Trumps plan. We look forward to restoring this powerful symbol of law, order, and justice. We will be actively working with our law enforcement and other federal partners to reinstate this very important mission, he further revealed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Popular Posts

Subscribe to Consequences email digest and get the latest breaking news in music, film, and television, tour updates, access to exclusive giveaways, and more straight to your inbox.
Each successive wave of tariffs launched by Washington is now customarily met by claims that they will harm the US economy or fail to enforce fairer international trade. Some are even betting that the announcement of talks between Scott Bessent, the Treasury secretary, and He Lifeng, Chinas top economics official, in Switzerland at the weekend is an indication that the administration is having second thoughts about its tariff campaign against China.

I wouldnt be so sure. There are increasing signs that tariffs are not the only weapon the Trump administration is prepared to use in its anti-China armoury. There is also a growing body of evidence that the tariff policy is hitting Beijing far harder than it is Washington. Instead of a premature capitulation, the White House would be well-advised to hold the line.

First, consider the impact of 145 per cent tariffs on Beijing in the context of Chinas current economic malaise. Donald Trump signalled the punches in his first presidency and during the election campaign, so they were hardly a complete surprise. But Beijing has clearly been taken aback by the level and severity of the new challenge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Outwardly, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) propaganda machine has been contemptuously defiant. But though the CCP is fighting back with retaliatory tariffs of its own, the hard truth is that US tariffs are causing serious pain on top of other intractable domestic headwinds caused by Xi Jinpings decade-long failure to galvanise the home market and reduce export dependency.

The core problem is that Chinas dysfunctional real estate failure has depressed sentiment and sentenced a generation to financial hardship. A lack of employment prospects, especially among the young, has deepened a general hopelessness about the future and even led to disorderly expressions of active anti-party dissent. This sits very badly with Xis monotonous encomiums of his imaginary Rejuvenation of the Chinese Nation.

Even before the trade war, Xi could not create 5.5 per cent growth simply by publishing yet more invented figures. But the challenge of Trumps tariffs illustrates the enormous cost of Chinas endemic dependency on foreign export markets. It is unlikely that Europe, as well as Chinas more servile clients in the developing world, will sit idly by as they become dumping grounds for Chinese goods the US wont buy.

On April 7, Bessent told an interviewer I think President Trump has broken [Chinas] business model with these tariffs. If so, it would make sense for the US administration not to reach an economic deal with Beijing, but to hold the line a bit longer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Not least because, in parallel with the tariff onslaught, we are beginning to see emerging signs of the other half of a Trump 2.0 China geostrategy, spelt out most clearly by the secretary for defence, Pete Hegseth. A secret memo he is reported to have circulated in the Pentagon in mid-March states as follows;

China is the departments sole pacing threat, and denial of a Chinese fait accompli seizure of Taiwan  while simultaneously defending the US homeland  is the departments sole pacing scenario.

This is not just fighting talk. While Trump has preserved a strict silence on US Taiwan policy, his top officials may be about to accelerate programmes to arm Taiwan, many of which began under the first Trump administration and were sustained by the Biden administration. Even more importantly, Washington is ramping up the transfer of game-changing missile and other weapons systems to the Philippines and other regional allies.

Xi dare not let his personal goal of annexing Taiwan slip away. But thanks to Trumps initiative, economically, militarily and politically, it is becoming more difficult day by day. Xi is bent on destroying a major pillar of the liberal world order, and the non-US West should help Trump to deter 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.
Donald Trumps meeting with Canadian prime minister Mark Carney on Tuesday got off to a positive enough start. They greeted each other in a pleasant manner. Their handshake was cordial. They got down to business.

Before Carney arrived in Washington DC a few hysterical voices in the media had suggested that it was destined to turn into a confrontational shouting match. That was never likely. Yes, many Canadians are furious at Trump due to the ongoing tariff war. Yes, Carney played up this rhetoric during the election campaign. During his victory speech, he said Trump wanted to break us, so that America can own us and that will never, ever happen.

But Carney can be agreeable (at times), and Trump has his moments of pragmatism. The result was a discussion that was far more positive and respectful than just about anything the president managed with Justin Trudeau. Canadas new prime minister has plenty of political and personal flaws, but hes more intelligent and capable than his predecessor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sadly, however, thats a low bar. On no account could the public appearance in the Oval Office before reporters be judged a success for the prime minister. A nation that elected Carney because of his supposed talents as an international statesman  able to stand up to Trump as an equal  instead saw their new leader humbled.

Carney mostly sat there, smiled (sometimes uncomfortably), spoke little, and frequently tried and failed to interject as the president dominated the meeting. He was being schooled by a shrewd president who, unlike him, knows how to work the press to his advantage.

Credit: Reuters

When Trump discussed Carneys victory, he said: I think I was probably the greatest thing that happened to him. This led to a bemused glance by Carney to reporters. It seemed designed to put him in his place.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Then a reporter asked Trump about Canada becoming the 51st US state. Carney again looked visibly uncomfortable. Well, I still believe that but it takes two to tango, right? said Trump. I believe it would be a massive tax cut for the Canadian citizens. You get free military, tremendous medical care and other things. Speaking as a real estate developer at heart, he argued that it would be nice to get rid of that artificially drawn line dividing the two nations.

Carney did eventually manage to chip in with a nice line: As you know from real estate, there are some places that are never for sale. Were sitting in one right now Buckingham Palace, you visited as well. Trump laughed and said, thats true. The PM continued: Having met with the owners of Canada over the course of the campaignits not for sale. It wont be for sale, ever.

But Carneys honeyed words in defence of Canadian sovereignty were for nothing. Never say never said Trump. Most often, all the prime minister could do was smile half-heartedly. His body language was that of resignation. He probably felt humiliated, too.

Trump is likely to have been very happy with this meeting. He successfully intervened in the Canadian election. He brought down Trudeau. He stopped the momentum of Pierre Poilievre and the Conservatives. He ensured that Carney, a weak, deferential and inexperienced Liberal prime minister, remained in office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

From the evidence of their meeting on Tuesday, its checkmate, Trump.

Michael Taube, a columnist for the National Post, Troy Media and Loonie Politics, was a speechwriter for former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper

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.
I AM SUCH A GEEK that I remember when Barack Obama made a splash by liberating reams of government data so Americans could use it to do things like compare colleges and start businesses.

It was 2013 and talk of a catchy abundance agenda was not even a glimmer in anyones eye. Instead, Obama signed an executive order called Making Open and Machine Readable the New Default for Government Information. Way to go viral, guys.

It was, of course, much more interesting than its title. The Obama administration viewed government information as a valuable national asset that in the hands of creative Americans would become even more valuable. Were making it easier for people to find the data and use it, so that entrepreneurs can build products and services we havent even imagined yet, Obama said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

His announcement noted that the U.S. economy was already benefiting tremendously from industries and products using government weather data and formerly military-only GPS technology. The new initiative made previously inaccessible or unmanageable data available in open, machine-readable formats, while appropriately safeguarding privacy, confidentiality, and security.

This was a relatively obscure moment. I probably wouldnt remember it at all, except for the contrast with Donald Trumps first term, when government data became unreliable and sometimes disappeared completely. Now, in his second presidency, its a major obsession for me and many others. Huge collections of scientific and statistical data are already gone, while enormous caches of personal datayour finances, health, income, and moreare in the hands of unknown, inexperienced people who have no business getting access to it, based on either laws or common sense.

If youre a fan of common sense, become a Bulwark+ member and get the best The Bulwark has to offer in your inbox every day.

Not only that, but Donald Trumps stated goal is to pool U.S. data that until now has been compartmentalized and protected within individual agencies. You cant get more explicit than the title of this March 20 executive order: Stopping Waste, Fraud, and Abuse by Eliminating Information Silos.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The latest data trove at risk is the information protected by the Social Security Administration. Trump has asked the Supreme Court to give Elon Musks DOGE army permission to access to personal data for tenspossibly hundredsof millions of Americans, so they can decide if youre dead or cheating. This is time-sensitive, the lawyers argued in a filing last week. DOGE needs access for ferreting out fraud, waste, and abuse, they said. Also, other government employees have access to the data, so why not them?

Let me count the ways. Who are they? What education and training do they have? What vetting have they had? What clearances do they have? Do they understand what multiple federal privacy laws require? Do they have any reason to suspect fraud, waste, and abuse on a scale that justifies wholesale access to individual, confidential data?

Karianne Jones, a lawyer for unions and retirees trying to block DOGE access, said DOGE is bullying the agency. They cannot explain why they want this data. They cant really tell you what data they want. They just want everything. They want the source code, and they want to do it without any restrictions, she told the Associated Press.

The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals said last week in a 96 opinion that Americans, when they shared sensitive information with the government, fully expected that it would be fiercely protected. It also said DOGE already has access to anonymized data that typically is used to detect fraud and upgrade technology. Those are, the court said, the same jobs that DOGE claims to be doing, so that should be access enough.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lets be honest here. This is an administration that wipes out information it doesnt like, including about vaccines, LGBTQ health, the climate and, of course, DEI. It weaponizes and twists information against people it wants to demonize or marginalize.

Join now

You cant rely on this administration to provide factual data, and you certainly cant trust it with the most intimate details of your life. The DOGE troops carrying out the search for savings and technology upgrades are unaccountable to the taxpayer. And we know one of them is a teenager.

There are at least eleven lawsuits claiming DOGE is violating the 1974 Privacy Act, but they may be outrun by events. Unnerved observers say Trump, Musk, and their allies are already well along toward their increasingly obvious goal: Compiling agency information on everyone everywhere into a single, easily searchable database.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Musk is building a spying machine using the data hes looted from the American public, strategist Jason Sattler wrote last week. Its a surveillance state unprecedented in America, Julia Angwin said in the New York Times, ready-made to locate immigrants Trump wants to deport, critics he wants to fire or punish, or compromising information he can use to humiliate enemies.

An underrecognized player here is the tech firm Palantir, founded by Musk frenemy Peter Thiel after the 9/11 attacks with seed money from the CIA. The company has built vast, interconnected databases for American military and intelligence agencies to find and kill terrorists abroad. Now its engineers are embedded in U.S. government agenciesincluding the IRS and the Office of Personnel Managementbuilding mega-systems to track migrants and further other goals of the DOGE and broader Trump agendas.

Share The Bulwark

A short and chilling Atlantic headlineAmerican Panopticoncaptured the moment best. A panopticon is a circular prison in which all the prisoners can be seen at any time by a centrally located guard. In philosopher Jeremy Benthams original conception of the panopticon, the prisoners would not be able to tell whether the guard was watching them at any given moment, so they would act as if they were being watched at all times. If that sounds like an ominous way to describe todays America, well, tell yourself its just a metaphor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The fact is that we now have a president ditching essential scientific data at a fast clip, sending move fast and break things saboteurs to collect other dataprivate, personal dataat an equally fast clip, and overseeing a frightening yet highly convenient consolidation of all the data he needs to be the president who dispenses favors to his friends and retribution to his foes.

It almost hurts, in fact it actually does hurt, to recall a time when we had a president who saw data as an economic engine, who believed in American entrepreneurs and researchers and innovators, and in the potential of government data to help them create jobs and entire industries. A president whose goal was to improve American lives and make America more prosperous.

That president once said there wasnt a liberal America and a conservative America, just the United States of America. But that was a long time ago.

Share
President Donald Trump is planning to rename another prominent body of water.

The Associated Press reported on Wednesday, May 7, that two senior White House officials have confirmed that  during his upcoming trip to Saudi Arabia Trump plans to announce that the U.S. will officially be updating its lexicon to call the Persian Gulf the "Arabian Gulf" or the "Gulf of Arabia."

Related: Trump White House Shuts Out The Associated Press for Saying 'Gulf of Mexico'

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The body of water is known by its Arabian name in many Middle Eastern nations, however, the "Persian Gulf" moniker is a point of pride for Iran. The country descended from the Persian Empire and was called Persia by Western countries until 1935.

While the U.S. military has referred to the body of water as the Arabian Gulf for years, the Persian Gulf name is more common among American civilians. For users in the United States, Google Maps currently lists the name as "Persian Gulf (Arabian Gulf)," while Apple Maps solely displays it as the "Persian Gulf."

Related: Iran Says It Wants to Arrest President Trump Over Airstrike That Killed Top General: Reports

Trump first stoked the Persian/Arabian Gulf debate during his first term as president. He provoked ire among top Iranian officials for not only withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal, but also referring to the "Arabian Gulf" as he did so.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Everyone knew Trumps friendship was for sale to the highest bidder. We now know that his geography is, too, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif wrote on Twitter at the time.

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.

On Wednesday, the country's current foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, took to social media to once again chastise  and even threaten retaliation against  the president's plan to move toward a name change.

"The name Persian Gulf, like many geographical designations, is deeply rooted in human history. Iran has never objected to the use of names such as the Sea of Oman, Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, or Red Sea. The use of these names does not imply ownership by any particular nation, but rather reflects a shared respect for the collective heritage of humanity," Araghchi wrote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"In contrast, politically motivated attempts to alter the historically established name of the Persian Gulf are indicative of hostile intent toward Iran and its people, and are firmly condemned. Such biased actions are an affront to all Iranians, regardless of their background or place of residence," he continued.

Araghchi also included a warning to Trump, writing, "While any short-sighted step in this connection will have no validity or legal or geographical effect, it will only bring the wrath of all Iranians from all walks of life and political persuasion in Iran, the U.S. and across the world."

The name Persian Gulf, like many geographical designations, is deeply rooted in human history. Iran has never objected to the use of names such as the Sea of Oman, Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, or Red Sea. The use of these names does not imply ownership by any particular nation, but pic.twitter.com/PQjUiph4qt  Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) May 7, 2025

Related: Mexican President Reacts to Trump's Gulf of America Plan: 'For the Entire World It Is Still the Gulf of Mexico'

Early in his second term, Trump barred The Associated Press from the White House due to the outlet's refusal to comply with his proclamation that the Gulf of Mexico be renamed the "Gulf of America."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The outlet's battle for Oval Office access continues, with a federal judge ruling in April that the AP's continued referral to the Gulf of Mexico is protected by the First Amendment.

However, the Trump administration has continued to retaliate, recently removing the designated position for wire services in the press pool rotation, severely limiting the outlet's ability to gain daily access to briefings and more.



Read the original article on People
Its no secret that President Donald Trump loves gold decor. His Trump Tower penthouse in Manhattan is laced with it, as are many of Mar-a-Lagos most opulent rooms.

Now Trump is remaking parts of the White House in the same gilded image. And to do so, he is turning to a veteran Jupiter cabinetmaker.

The Wall Street Journal reported this month that cabinetmaker John Icart has become Trumps gold guy, enlisted to take charge of much of the gold decoration in the White House.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In an article How Trump and His Gold Guy Are Redecorating the White House, the publication reports that Icart traveled with Trump to Washington on Air Force One to aid him in turning parts of the White House gold, making the worlds most famous address look more like Mar-a-Lago, his Florida club.

The Journal wrote:

A cabinetmaker from south Florida who has worked on projects at Mar-a-Lago, John Icart helped add custom-made gold finishes to the Oval Office, including gilded carvings for the fireplace mantel and the molding that wraps around the most famous office in the world, administration officials said.

John Icart and his brother used to do woodwork at Mar-a-Lago

Icart, 70, lives in Jupiters Abacoa neighborhood and was the owner of Icart Cabinetry and Trim in West Palm Beach for 18 years before selling the business in 2023, public records show.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For years he worked out of a workshop along an industrial strip on Georgia Avenue in West Palm Beach, less than two miles from Mar-a-Lago.

He has since formed a new company, Icart Woodwork, based in Jupiter.

Reached by phone this week, he acknowledged his work with the nations 47th president but declined to comment, referring questions to the White Houses spokesperson. The White House did not return a request for comment.

A former business associate said that while Icart may be the face of Trumps efforts to gild the White House, his brother, Kenneth, tended to do more of the cabinet building and woodworking in the past.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

TRUMP NEWS: Trump calls for 100% tariffs on films. Actor Jon Voight recommends tax provisions

John is the face, Ken is the hands, said Laurent Minguez, president of Heavenly Hands Property Services. John was a brilliant businessman  very well spoken. His brother Ken is really the craftsman behind the scenes.

Minguez said John and Ken had done work at Mar-a-Lago for years before Minguezs company bought out Johns business in 2023.

After the sale, John continued to do sales for Heavenly Hands, with the company performing molding and woodworking jobs at Trumps private Palm Beach club, Minguez said. But John and Heavenly Hands eventually agreed to go their separate ways.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

TRUMP NEWS: Image of Trump as pope, call to reopen Alcatraz and movie tariff mark 10th Mar-a-Lago visit

Since returning to the White House, the Journal reported that Trump has had gold carvings installed on the Oval Office mantel, placed a gold Trump crest over an exterior door and even brought gold cherubs from Mar-a-Lago as White House decorations.

Its the Golden Office for the Golden Age, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told the Journal in an email.

Andrew Marra is a reporter at The Palm Beach Post. Reach him at amarra@pbpost.com.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Donald Trump's White House 'Gold Guy' is Jupiter cabinetmaker John Icart
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  A Donaldsonville man pleaded guilty to charges in connection with a shooting that left one person injured while he was out on bond.

Kahlil Howard, 27, pleaded guilty to charges of attempted second-degree murder and armed robbery.

According to the 23rd Judicial District Attorneys Office, deputies were called to a Sept. 8, 2017, shooting behind the Mississippi River levee in Ascension Parish. Detectives found the shooting victim at a hospital.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigators learned that the shooting victim had given a ride to Howard. According to an arrest report, the victim and Howard had previously met through a mutual friend but did not personally know each other. Officials said Howard took out a gun, then told the shooting victim to drive across the Mississippi River levee into a cow pasture. He ordered the victim out of the car at gunpoint and reportedly demanded money before firing multiple shots.

Howard was taken into custody and booked into the Ascension Parish Jail. He was out on bond for a separate case at the time of the 2017 shooting. The district attorneys office noted that Howard is currently serving a 20-year sentence for a 2021 manslaughter conviction.

Howard is facing up to 50 years in state prison for the attempted second-degree murder charge and up to 99 years for the armed robbery charge.

2 injured in separate shootings only hours apart in Baton Rouge, officials say

Latest News

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 Louisiana First News.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  The Douglas County Sheriffs Office asks any driver who was traveling westbound on Kansas Highway 10 (K-10) between Lawrence and Eudora early Wednesday morning to contact deputies if they had to swerve around a wrong-way driver.

According to deputies, just after midnight, dispatchers received calls about a silver Nissan Maxima driving eastbound in the westbound lanes from the U.S. 59 and Iowa Street exit on K-10 east.

The sheriffs office said a Eudora police officer eventually found the car, and the driver stopped near the East 1900 Road ramp.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Downtown Kansas City business owners issuing a warning: This isnt a political issueits a safety issue

It was reported that the driver was a 35-year-old man from Lawrence and was taken into custody on suspicion of DUI and reckless driving with the help of a Johnson County Sheriffs Office deputy.

According to the sheriffs office, multiple people witnessed the man driving the wrong way on the highway, including deputies and officers who saw him pass fire trucks on K-10, as well as two semis.

If you or anyone you know had to swerve and avoid the wrong-way driver early Wednesday morning, deputies ask that you call (785) 843-0250.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
DENVER (KDVR)  A month after an oil and gas well blowout occurred in Weld County, some of the residents who were evacuated because of potential health impacts are still not back in their homes.

On Tuesday, Chevron told FOX31 it was conducting assessments of homes and properties with multiple home cleanings in progress.

The worlds biggest companies have caused $28 trillion in climate damage, a new study estimates

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Out of the 14 displaced residents within a half mile of the incident, 12 are awaiting completion of the cleaning process, the oil and gas company stated via email. While the work is in progress, residents will not be in their homes. Chevron continues to provide housing accommodations as well as food/beverage/incidental costs.

The company said that the timeline to return residents to their homes depends on the scope of work needed for each homes cleaning, but said that most residents will be able to return to their home within a matter of days or weeks once the process is complete.

The well was uncapped for a period of five days, and officials reported that fluids, including water, oil and gas were discharged from the well in a plume seen from SkyFOX for days.

Residents were evacuated after a containment issue at an oil and gas facility. Evacuations continued on Tuesday. (KDVR) This Chevron oil and gas facility in Galeton, Colorado, was contained days after an uncontrolled release was announced, leading to evacuations. (KDVR)

Chevron has been working individually with all impacted property owners and tenants, providing specialized teams that are available in person throughout the week to help answer questions and concerns, Chevron told FOX31. Recognizing that each property will require a separate plan, we have assigned case managers to residents to help personalize and customize our approach.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The company said that a preliminary assessment shows that the blowout was caused by a failure of wellhead equipment at the surface and was not related to fracking or downhole operations.

The company said that the root cause analysis into the cause of the incident is almost complete, but that other safety measures have been installed.

Chevron has installed a secondary barrier downhole during new tubing installations to mitigate against reoccurrence, the company told FOX31. Our priority and focus remains getting residents back into their homes.

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.
DES MOINES, Iowa  Dozens of rescued bats were released back into the wild in Des Moines Tuesday night.

Oskaloosa girls track team learns self defense

According to the Iowa Wildlife Center, many bat species will travel south for the winter, but some species in Iowa will hibernate. In about late October the center said they start getting calls about bats looking for a cozy place to hibernate inside someones home or a building. The center will take in these bats and will rehabilitate them and release them if able. However, during the winter months the bats cant be released, as they should be hibernating and theres no food source for them. So, the center will take them in.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Once the weather warms up and insects begin to come out the center will then release the rehabilitated bats in groups at different locations in Iowa.

The significance is we had over a hundred bats come into us for care this winter and now tonight were gonna release 46 here at Grays Lake, which is a big number for us, Marlene Ehresman, executive director of the Iowa Wildlife Center, said.

On Tuesday, the center released 46 bats at Grays Lake and invited the public to witness the bat release and learn more about the creatures. If youre interested in seeing a bat release, the center said it will be releasing another group of bats on Wednesday night in Ames.

Metro News:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 who13.com.
MILAN, Italy, May 7. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is looking into more landslide risk management projects in Kyrgyzstan, Yasmin Siddiqi, Director for Agriculture, Food, Nature, and Rural Development in Central and West Asia at the Asian Development Bank, said during a briefing held as part of the 58th ADB Annual Meeting, Trends special correspondent reports from Milan.

We have an ongoing landslide risk management project that ADB is leading with the government of Kyrgyzstan. ADB has no other project in its history which is looking purely at landslide risk management. We are working across the country in a number of high-risk locations that the government has identified where landslides cause the loss of houses, the loss of farmland, and the loss of lives. ADB is working with the Ministry of Emergency Situations. What we are looking to do in the future is also look at the potential to do more of that type of landslide risk management project. It involves a combination of improving the slope itself, she explained.

Siddiqi noted that ADB is also looking at the installation of monitoring devices in the hillside.

Our project is also looking at financing and private sector participation, such as the insurance market. Moreover, the Kyrgyz government has requested our support in preserving the Arslanbob forest in Jalal-Abad. This is the oldest and largest walnut forest in the world. And that is also very important for stabilizing land, supporting communities, and absorbing the greenhouse gas emissions that they face. And that project we also look forward to supporting through this glaciers initiative, she said.
Drones attacked defence industry facilities in several Russian oblasts on the night of 6-7 May, with fires raging at the locations of the strikes. NASA fire monitoring satellites have also recorded fires at the military airfields of Shaikovka in Kaluga Oblast and Kubinka in Moscow Oblast following the drone attack.

Source: Tula Oblast Governor Dmitry Milyaev; Artyom Zdunov, Head of the Republic of Mordovia; Astra Telegram channel

Quote from Milyaev: "Air defence forces destroyed four drones over Tula Oblast. Emergency services continue to work at the scenes Air defence systems are on high combat readiness and are repelling the fifth wave of attacks."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Details: Zdunov only wrote that there was a "drone threat on the territory of Saransk" and that "emergency services and law enforcement agencies are working".

The Astra Telegram channel, citing local residents, reported that after the drone attack in Tula, a fire broke out near two of Russia's largest defence industry facilities, which are part of the Rostec state corporation.

In particular, smoke was seen in Tula near Shcheglovskaya Zaseka Street.

This street is home to Instrument Design Bureau JSC named after academician A.G. Shipunov, which develops high-precision guided weapons for ground forces, the navy and aerospace forces, air defence systems, rapid-fire guns, combat small arms and civilian products.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

SPLAV Research and Production Association is also located on this street. It manufactures multiple-launch rocket systems, heavy flamethrower systems, ammunition for both of these and both unguided and guided missiles.

The facilities are located about a kilometre apart. It is not yet known which of them is on fire.

Smoke was also seen in Saransk (Mordovia) after the drone attack. Two fires broke out in the city, one of them in the Khimmash district.

Two fires in Saransk

Photo: Astra

According to local residents, the Optic Fiber Systems plant was attacked again. A fire has broken out there.

Fire at the Optic Fiber Systems plant

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Photo: Astra

Another building is on fire a few kilometres away.

Fire in Saransk

Photo: Astra

According to Astra, the Saransk Mechanical Plant and the Saranskkabel-Optic plant, which may have been the target of the second attack, are located a few kilometres from the Optic Fiber Systems plant.

      .       .   Telegram- Astra pic.twitter.com/ytm9F32bh1     (@ukrpravda_news) May 7, 2025

According to the company's website, Optic Fiber Systems JSC is the first and only optical fibre manufacturing plant in Russia, located in Saransk.

This plant was previously attacked at the beginning of April.

Updated: The Astra Telegram channel later reported that the second facility targeted in Saransk was likely the Saranskkabel machine-building plant.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In response to the attack, classes in schools, universities and kindergartens have been cancelled across the city. Russian authorities have also prohibited the online posting of any photos, videos or information related to the aftermath of the strikes.

Later, Astra stated that NASA fire monitoring satellites had detected fires at the Shaikovka military airfield in Kaluga Oblast and the Kubinka airfield in Moscow Oblast following the drone attack.

Background: Earlier, Russian authorities claimed that air defence units had downed seven drones heading towards Moscow during the night of 6-7 May. Sheremetyevo Airport was temporarily closed due to the drone threat.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
MADISON, S.D. (KELO)  Dakota State University is getting ready to welcome former South Dakota governor and current secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem to campus for this weekends commencement.

The decision has sparked plenty of conversation among the student body.

Deuel County could be multi-billion data center site

Its finals week on the campus of Dakota State, with graduating seniors receiving their diplomas this weekend. Those same seniors will also hear from Noem as the keynote speaker.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As Noems arrival on the campus of Dakota State draws closer, students are already beginning to make their voices heard.

Youre really seeing, I dont want to say an even split down the middle, but you have a large amount of people that are in support, and you have a large amount of people that are strongly against, Dakota State senior Joe Bennett said.

You can definitely tell this is probably the most active weve seen students as far as standing up for something they believe in, Dakota State junior Julia Busch said.

Some students disagree with Noems policies and plan to protest on Saturday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You hear a lot of people really disagreeing with the deportations that are happening right now, and Kristi Noem being the head of the Department of Homeland Security, she is directly involved in a lot of that stuff, Bennett said.

The students have formed several different groups of opposition to whats going on on campus. The student senate has been leading one of those efforts and leading the student-led protests that are happening at commencement on May 10th, Dakota State student senate vice president Anden Wieseler said.

Some staff members say Noem has been a quote unwavering champion of DSU programs such as cybersecurity.

I am a cyber major, so I get that. Obviously, theres been a lot of growth in cyber in DSU as a campus. It is a big deal, so I understand them saying that she has played a part in it, Busch said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kristi Noem has had a very impressive political career, and I am not naive to the fact that people do support her as a person because she has done a lot of great things for the state of South Dakota, Bennett said.

Educators humbled by regional teaching awards

But whatever your viewpoint is, students are encouraging you to make it known.

I do hope that everyone gets heard, Busch said.

It is your constitutionally protected right to be able to voice your opinion, Bennett said.

A couple of the students we talked with also say they hope the rallies this weekend wont get in the way of the seniors celebrating their accomplishments.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

KELOLAND News will be covering the commencement. We will bring you reports on KELOLAND Weekend News on Saturday.



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.
YOGYAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)  A dump truck crashed into a minibus on a downhill road in Indonesia's Central Java province, killing 11 people, all of them kindergarten teachers, officials said Wednesday.

The truck, loaded with construction materials, collided with the minibus before crashing into a house in Kalijambe village, in Purwerjo district. The minibus was carrying a group of teachers from Magelang district who were attending a funeral in Purworejo district, the local disaster management agency said in a statement.

The truck allegedly lost control and hit the minibus, said Andry Agustiano, the Purworejo police chief. He added the police officers immediately opened an investigation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Several ambulances transported the bodies and other injured victims, including the truck driver and the owner of the house, to a nearby hospital.

Road accidents are common in Indonesia because of poor safety standards and infrastructure.

On Tuesday, a bus carrying 34 passengers sped out of control on and overturned in Indonesias West Sumatra province, killing at least 12 people.

Last year, a bus carrying 61 students and teachers returning from an outing to a high school in Depok, just outside Jakarta, slammed into cars and motorbikes after its brakes failed, killing 11 students and injuring dozens of others.

__

Associated Press journalist Edna Tarigan in Jakarta, Indonesia, contributed to this report.
ECTOR COUNTY, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- Some students across Ector County Independent School District will not be allowed to walk the stage for graduation this year because of an issue with the release of test results.

An ECISD spokesperson said, Our long-standing school board policy is that students must satisfactorily complete all coursework requirements for graduation and satisfy all applicable state testing requirements in order to participate in commencement activities and ceremonies. Unfortunately, this year, the Texas Education Agencys release of individual student test results is scheduled for May 23, which is after all ECISDs high school graduation ceremonies, except Odessa High School.

Graduating seniors must pass three of five End of Course exams, which include exams for English 1 and 2, History, Algebra, and Biology. While all of these tests are administered prior to senior year, some students have not yet passed the exam, and others who are graduating early, had not previously been tested on some subjects.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The timing not only affects early graduates but also all seniors who are waiting for the results of make-up End of Course exams to determine whether or not they have met graduations requirements and will be eligible to participate in their respective graduations. The alternative is to participate in Summer Graduation in July, the spokesperson said.

School district leaders recently sent a formal request to TEA asking the agency to release ECISDs individual results on or by May 21 to help accommodate students who have worked so hard to earn their diplomas and are one last piece of data away from walking the stage.

We are proud of all they have accomplished and hopeful this request for scores will work out in their favor, district leaders 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 Yourbasin.
Eight migrants thought to be lost at sea after a boat capsized off the coast of California on Monday were found alive, authorities announced in a news release.

Witnesses spotted a panga boat overturned at a beach in Del Mar, 22 miles from San Diego. Lifeguards and bystanders participated in rescue efforts, the Justice Department said. Law enforcement officials recovered three bodies from the water, including a 14-year-old boy from India. His 10-year-old sister remains missing at sea and is presumed dead. The incident resulted in the deaths of three people.

The childrens father is in a coma and their mother is hospitalized. Nine others were initially unaccounted for.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Monday, officials arrested two Mexican nationals believed to be involved in the event, identified as Julio Cesar Zuniga Luna and Jesus Juan Rodriguez Leyva. The two were taken into custody at the beach on Monday and charged with bringing in aliens resulting in death and bringing in aliens for financial gain.

While conducting operations that evening, Border Patrol agents in Chula Vista identified a vehicle that had been observed at the scene of the smuggling incident. The driver of the vehicle fled the scene.

Border Patrol agents identified two other vehicles during the investigation and managed to stop and arrest the drivers of the vehicles, locating eight of nine people who had initially been reported missing.

Life jackets and personal items are seen in a boat that capsized Monday (AP)

In that instance, Melissa Jenelle Cota, Gustavo Lara and Sergio Rojas-Fregosa, all Mexican nationals, were arrested and charged with transportation of illegal aliens. Rojas-Fregoso was in the country without authorization and had previously been deported in 2023.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Human smuggling, regardless of the route, is not only illegal but extremely dangerous, said Shawn Gibson, special agent in charge of HSI San Diego. Smugglers often treat people as disposable commodities, leading to tragic and sometimes deadly consequences, as we saw in this case.

Yesterday's heartbreaking events are a stark reminder of the urgent need to dismantle these criminal networks driven by greed. The HSI along with the U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Coast Guard, and other partners from the Marine Task Force, remains firmly committed to holding those responsible accountable for these senseless deaths.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said in a written statement that she will seek the death penalty against the alleged criminals.

I will be formally requesting that the attorney general ensure that these two suspected smugglers are swiftly prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, she said. I will also be urging the Attorney General to seek the death penalty in this case. The Department of Homeland Security will not tolerate this level of criminal depravity or reckless disregard for human life.
An eighth person has died from injuries sustained in the Jan. 31 plane crash in Philadelphia near Roosevelt Mall.

Dominique Goods-Burke died on April 27 in the hospital where she was treated for injuries and crash-related health concerns for three months, ABC 6 Action News and NBC 10 reports.

The Learjet 55 departed the Northeast Philadelphia Airport on the night of Jan. 31 and crashed near the Roosevelt Mall.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The jet was carrying six passengers en route to Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri, per the FAA at the time. Seven other people, including six who were traveling back to Mexico, died when the medical jet crashed.

Related: 9-Year-Old Boy Has Burns Across 90 Percent of His Body After Philadelphia Plane Crash, His Grandma Says

Goods-Burke was on her way to the Macy's at the mall when the plane crashed, according to a GoFundMe page dedicated to fundraising for her extensive medical treatment. She was in a car with her family when the vehicle caught fire upon the plane's impact.

She was a "devoted mother to her 3 children and partner," the GoFundMe read.

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.

Goods-Burke worked as the day bake supervisor at High Point Cafe in Philadelphia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Dominique was a fighter until the end of her 3 month battle with her injuries and related health concerns," the cafe staff wrote in a tribute on Facebook. "We will miss her kind smile, beautiful spirit, and heart full of love. Please keep her family in your thoughts as they navigate these next steps."

Related: EMTs Reveal Mother and Daughter Who Died in Philadelphia Plane Crash Were 'Excited to Go' Home

"This place feels really empty and a little haunted," the cafe's founder, Meg Hagele, told Fox 29. "She was an amazing mom, she was an incredible baker, she held this place together."

In February, Goods-Burke's fiance, Steven Dreuitt, was confirmed dead from the plane crash. He was in the vehicle with Goods-Burke and his son. Dreuitt was found dead inside, ABC 6 reported. His son was hospitalized.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Medical Examiner's Office for the City of Philadelphia identified Dreuitt and listed his age as 37, CBS News Philadelphia reported in February.

Goods-Burke was critically injured, suffering burns to 70% of her body, her cousin Shantelle Fletcher told NBC10. Fletcher previously confirmed in February that Goods-Burke was "in a medically induced coma" and "responding to medication."

A funeral for Goods-Burke is scheduled for Thursday, May 8, per Fox 29.



Read the original article on People
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  El Paso Walmart shooter Patrick Crusius was flown to Huntsville, Texas, on Wednesday morning, May 7, where he will spend the rest of his life in prison, according to the El Paso County Sheriffs Office.

The Sheriffs Office says Crusius was remanded into the custody of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice on Wednesday.

I want to thank DPS for their critical partnership in ensuring this transfer was done safely and securely, said Sheriff Oscar Ugarte. With this transfer complete, this individual is no longer in our community, and we can continue focusing on healing and moving forward.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Sheriffs Office and the Texas Department of Public Safety Aircraft Operations were in charge of transporting Crusius to Huntsville, Texas.

Your mission failed: Crusius sentenced to life in prison without possibility of parole

El Paso Walmart shooter Patrick Crusius pleaded guilty to state charges in the Aug. 3, 2019, massacre on Monday, April 21, and was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Previously, the shooter pleaded guilty in 2023 to federal charges and was sentenced to 90 consecutive life terms without possibility of parole.

The shooter killed 23 people on Aug. 3, 2019, and injured more than 20 others in a racially motivated attack at the Cielo Vista Walmart.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Kazakhstan offers investment chances to Vietnamese businesses at high-level roundtable

Photo: Kazakh Invest

A KazakhstanVietnam Business Roundtable was held in Astana, featuring senior officials and business leaders from both nations. Part of Vietnam's official visit, led by General Secretary To Lam, the event aimed to strengthen economic ties. Key discussions focused on trade, investment, and collaboration in sectors like agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and transport. Kazakhstan highlighted its strategic position and economic opportunities, emphasizing support for joint projects. Notable agreements included a partnership between Qazaq Air and VietJet, a service agreement with Boeing, and a donation from Mareven Food. The event set the stage for further business initiatives and cooperation.

Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register
Police in Paterson, N.J., were investigating after a 70-year-old woman was found fatally stabbed in her home Tuesday.

The stabbing was reported at 2:18 p.m., Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes and Paterson Police Officer-In-Charge Patrick Murray told local media. They found the woman with multiple stab wounds and she was pronounced dead at the scene, the Bergen Record reported.

Details were scant and authorities had not yet identified the woman Tuesday evening, but asked for the publics help in finding her assailant.
SYDNEY (Reuters) - Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Wednesday he will travel to Indonesia next week as a "signal" of the importance Canberra places in the region in his first overseas visit since Saturday's election victory.

"We have no more important relationship than Indonesia just to our north," Albanese said in a television interview with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

Albanese said he will travel to Indonesia on Wednesday, the day after his government is sworn into office. Albanese was re-elected and his centre-left Labor party increased its majority in parliament in the poll.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Indonesia will grow to become the fourth-largest economy in the world, and Australia has an important defence and security relationship with Jakarta, he said.

The visit will be "a signal to our region of the importance we place on this region," he added.

During the election campaign Indonesia dismissed reports that Russia had requested to base military aircraft in Papua, about 1,200 km (750 miles) north of the Australian city of Darwin, where a U.S. Marine Corps rotational force is based for six months of the year.

(Reporting by Kirsty Needham in Sydney; Editing by Sharon Singleton)
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)  The North Carolina elections board ousted its widely respected executive director Wednesday in a partisan move that will put Republicans in control of election operations in the political swing state, which includes the certification of results.

The removal of Karen Brinson Bell, who had held the job for nearly six years during a time when the board had Democratic majorities, came after Republicans took away the authority to appoint election board members from the Democratic governor late last year, overriding a veto while they still held a supermajority in the legislature. GOP legislators handed that power to the elected state auditor, a Republican.

Meeting for the first time with its new GOP majority, the North Carolina State Board of Elections agreed in a party-line vote to replace Brinson Bell with Sam Hayes, the top lawyer for the Republican House speaker. The board declined to consider her request to speak at the end of the meeting, adjourning instead.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While I would have liked to have continued to serve the county boards of elections and the voters of North Carolina in this capacity, the state board has made a different decision, Brinson Bell said after the meeting to those remaining in the audience.

Brinson Bell led the board during the voting difficulties of the early COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and through last years presidential balloting after a devastating hurricane hit the state.

Democratic board member Siobhan ODuffy Millen told her Republican colleagues before the 3-2 vote to hire Hayes that how they parted ways with Brinson Bell is a shabby way to treat a nationally admired executive election director.

Nonetheless, her removal was not surprising, given that theres precedent for a new director to get hired with a changing partisan majority, and Republican legislative leaders have clashed over the years with Brinson Bell. Still, the circumstances are extraordinary.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Republicans have sought board changes for years

The boards partisan composition was altered just last week through the state law enacted by Republican lawmakers in December over the veto of then-Gov. Roy Cooper, a Democrat. It stripped the governor of his appointment powers not only to the state election board, but also to the chairs of county election boards. Republicans are also expected to install new GOP majorities on the local boards starting next month.

The GOP has tried several times since 2016 to remove the governors authority to choose members of the election board, whose duties include carrying out campaign finance laws, certifying election results and setting rules on a host of voting administration details.

New Democratic Gov. Josh Stein sued over the law, and some trial judges ruled that it had to be blocked. But the appointment switch took effect after a state Court of Appeals panel ruled the law could still be implemented starting May 1. The executive director is chosen for a two-year term set to begin May 15.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Election leaders praise outgoing director

Brinson Bell received high marks from colleagues for helping administer elections during the pandemic and when a photo identification requirement was carried out in the first general election in 2024.

She also oversaw the effort to hold the presidential election in the state last year after Hurricane Helene laid waste to numerous counties when it struck in September. The storm and subsequent flooding knocked out power and damaged water treatment systems across western North Carolina. Nonetheless, election officials managed to open nearly all of the 80 voting sites initially planned for the hardest hit areas on the first day of early in-person voting, just weeks later.

Some Republican officials complained about long lines at early-vote sites in some counties, and with mixed results lobbied to get more open.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Brinson Bell was selected recently to serve as the incoming president of the National Association of State Election Directors  a position Brinson Bell said she can no longer hold after losing her job.

David Becker, a former U.S. Justice Department lawyer who now leads the Center for Election Innovation & Research, said the GOP's highly partisan power grab has resulted in the removal of one of the most highly respected election officials in the country.

Justin Roebuck, the chief election official in Ottawa County, Michigan, said Brinson Bell's "departure will be a significant loss  not only for North Carolina voters but for the entire election administration community that has benefited from her leadership.

Pandemic litigation built animosity

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

State Republicans have been unhappy with Brinson Bell going back years. They focused on her role in a legal settlement in 2020. The settlement extended to nine days after the November election the time for mail ballots postmarked by Election Day to be received and counted. State law at the time had set the limit at three days.

Brinson Bell defended her actions and those of the board, saying they helped more mail-in ballots get counted after worries about Postal Service delays during the pandemic.

GOP leaders also have criticized the previous board for what they called errors in how election laws were carried out for the 2024 election. It led to litigation and formal protests in last Novembers race for a state Supreme Court seat that dragged on for months.

After last Novembers election, Brinson Bell publicly asked that Senate leader Phil Berger - the states most powerful Republican elected official - retract a comment suggesting that results were being manipulated during the canvassing period to lead to favorable results for Democrats. She said such words could lead to threats against local election workers. Berger declined to withdraw his comments.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Asked about the departure of the executive director, Berger said late Wednesday that Brinson Bell acted in a partisan manner on the job.

Republican chairman says he seeks trust in elections

Francis De Luca, a Republican who chairs the new elections board, said his goal was that we get things so we have fair elections, make voting easy and make sure we follow the law. And make sure there's trust in the election system.

Republican Donald Trump has won the state each of the three times he has run for president.

Hayes, the incoming election director, has been general counsel to previous Speaker Tim Moore and current Speaker Destin Hall. His recent career has largely been spent working for state agencies, and he has been highly involved with election-related litigation filed against GOP lawmakers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While she was not allowed to speak during the meeting, Brinson Bell stayed afterward and addressed the audience and the two Democratic members of the election board, who remained after their GOP colleagues had left.

We have done this work under incredibly difficult circumstances and in a toxic political environment, she said, adding that she hoped election workers are supported and rewarded for their work rather than vilified by those who dont like the outcome.

___

Associated Press writer Christina A. Cassidy in Atlanta contributed to this report.
The papal conclave, the secretive election process to elect the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church, commenced on Wednesday, bringing cardinals from all over the world to select the 267th pope.

Since the death of Pope Francis on April 21, a total of 220 cardinals -- the church's highest-ranking clergy -- have gathered in Rome to mourn the loss of the former pontiff and begin the secret conclave.

Overall, 133 cardinals will be voting during the conclave, the most electors ever, with 108 of them appointed by Pope Francis. All cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to participate in the election process.

PHOTO: Cardinal electors pray in the Sistine Chapel as the conclave to elect a new Pope starts in The Vatican, May 7, 2025. (Vatican Media/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)

The majority of the cardinals are coming from Europe, including 17 electors from Italy, five from Spain and five from France. There are 16 cardinal electors from North America, including 10 from the United States. Additionally, there are four from Central America, 17 from South America, 18 from Africa, 23 from Asia and four from Oceania. Argentina, the home country of Francis, has four cardinal electors.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

All 220 cardinals attended a mass at St. Peter's Basilica on Wednesday morning before the start of the conclave. The voting cardinals then proceeded to the Pauline Chapel, then walked in a procession to the Sistine Chapel, where the voting will take place.

PHOTO: Cardinal electors nations of origin (Google Earth / vatican.va)

Each of the 133 cardinals lined up to place their hand on the Book of the Gospels to take the oath, a promise to keep secret anything relating to the election of the new pope.

Voting commenced when the Master of Ceremony said "extra omnes" -- or "everyone out" -- on Wednesday afternoon, ordering all those who are not cardinal electors to exit the Sistine Chapel prior to the start of the conclave. The voting, which will occur twice daily, will continue until two-thirds of the cardinals have agreed on a pope.

PHOTO: Diego Giovanni Ravelli, Master of Pontifical Liturgical Celebrations, closes the doors of the Sistine chapel as the conclave to elect a new Pope starts, at St Peter's Square in The Vatican, May 7, 2025. (Vatican Media/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)

The ballots are burned after each vote and the smoke will emanate from the chimney that was built on top of the Sistine Chapel. Black smoke signifies a decision has not been reached and the voting will continue, whereas white smoke will mean a new holy leader of the church has been confirmed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The first day of the conclave concluded with black smoke, signifying that the next pope has not been elected yet.

PHOTO: Black smoke rises from the chimney on the Sistine Chapel, indicating no decision has been made to elect a new pope, at the Vatican, May 7, 2025. (Hannah Mckay/Reuters)

MORE: Papal conclave: Cardinals speak out on challenges new pope will face

A pope could be elected as soon as the first ballot, or the process could continue for days. Since 1831, no conclave has lasted for more than four days.

Up to four rounds of voting typically take place in a day. If no clear choice has emerged after three days, balloting is suspended for 24 hours to allow cardinal electors time to reflect. Another seven rounds of balloting then takes place, followed by another break, and so on.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If no pope is elected after 33 or 34 votes -- generally about 13 days -- then a new rule introduced by Pope Benedict XVI decrees the two leading candidates as determined by previous ballots will engage in a runoff vote. If the candidates are members of the conclave, they cannot vote in the runoff but are present for it. Whichever candidate receives the necessary two-thirds majority of the votes is the new pope.

PHOTO: The Sistine Chapel on the eve of the conclave in The Vatican, May 6, 2025. (Simone Risoluti/Vatican Media/AFP via Getty Images)

Cardinal Jean-Paul Vesco, the archbishop of Algiers, told ABC News it would be "unexpected" if the conclave goes past Friday.

Similarly, the cardinal of Baghdad, Louis Raphael Sako, reportedly told journalists at the Vatican last week that he expects a "short conclave."

"It will be a short conclave, two, three days," Sako said, as quoted by Italy's ANSA news agency.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

MORE: World's eyes turn to Vatican City as papal conclave to elect next pope set to begin

When asked if he had an idea of who he would vote for to become the new pope, Sako replied, "I have a very clear idea but I cannot say it."

Names of cardinals who appear to be front-runners for the papacy have been swirling since the death of Francis.

Any baptized Catholic male is eligible to take Francis' place, but experts said Pietro Parolin, the cardinal secretary of state, and Luis Tagle, the archbishop of Manila in the Philippines, are the top contenders.

PHOTO: Officials and staff assigned to the Conclave take an oath in the Pauline Chapel, First Loggia of the Apostolic Palace, Vatican City, May 5, 2025. (Vatican Media/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)

An American cardinal, Robert Prevost, has also started to emerge as a front-runner, according to Father James Martin, a papal contributor for ABC.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Overall, Martin said cardinals will be looking for "someone who is holy, someone who is a good evangelizer who can proclaim the gospel and someone who is a good manager."

"Those three things are tough to find in one person," Martin said Monday on ABC News Live.

During the conclave, recording technology of any kind is forbidden, with technicians checking to ensure there are no secretly installed bugs or other like devices inside the Sistine Chapel or adjacent areas. The cardinals' cellphones will be taken away at the start of the conclave and will be returned to them after the election of the new pope.

ABC News' Christopher Watson and Phoebe Natanson contributed to this report.

Election process for next pope commences with papal conclave originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Avid e-bike riders expressed their concerns Tuesday before Clark County officials voted on an ordinance banning the vehicles in the Countys resort corridor and introducing new rules for riders in the area.

The Clark County Commission voted unanimously Tuesday to prohibit electric bicycles and scooters from the Las Vegas Strip. While the ordinance allows those vehicles on county roadways, sidewalks, and trails, it imposes a 15-mile-per-hour speed limit for vehicles within County parks.

Henderson passed a similar ordinance last week, while North Las Vegas and Las Vegas are considering similar ordinances for their own areas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A bell or horn will now be required, as will front white lights and rear red reflectors for nighttime use. The vehicles now require functional brakes, which should be capable of skidding wheels on dry pavement.

Sample signage demonstrates the method Clark County will use to educate riders on what is permitted on County roadways. (Clark County)

Electric motorcycles are now banned in County parks, and helmets are required for riders under 18. Parents and guardians would be liable for the minors fines, while reckless behaviour, such as stunts, wheelies, and unsafe speeds, could draw penalties up to $600.

Were obviously going to be doing a lot of education before we start enforcement on any of these new rules so that people well understand what the guidelines are within our parks and our trails, said Justin Jones, commissioner for Clark Countys District F.

Avid e-bike riders say they are concerned about a potential ban on the devices they rely on for transportation. Craig Davis, an avid e-bike rider, said he sold his car five years ago. He calls the vehicles an efficient form of transportation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its a joy to be outside, Davis said. We want to encourage active transportation. We want to encourage shifting from vehicles to bicycles, said Davis.

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department data from the end of March indicates that six people have died from collisions involving bicycles and electric scooters in 2025. That number has increased from two at the same time in 2024.

The new ordinance is set to take effect on May 21.

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.
SPRINGFIELD TWP., Ohio (WKBN)  Its not something you see every day  an electric surge traveling along power lines in Springfield Township during Monday evenings lightning storm.

One of them was for what neighbors thought were explosions at a First Energy transformer substation on Unity Road.

We initially got called for a tree on a wire. And then immediately following that, there were probably about 10 more calls within an hour, said Springfield Township Fire Chief Mike Wright. And whenever they got there, they found that there were multiple breakers had dropped.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Several viewers contacted WKBN 27 First News, saying that lightning strikes and power surges damaged appliances and electronics in their homes. Even the fire department fell victim as the speaker system inside the station malfunctioned.

Whenever they went out on that first call, our truck  the battery charger on it  the truck was filling up with smoke, Wright said.

A First Energy spokesperson said roughly 2,500 customers were affected by the storm, but most were restored fairly quickly.

As for ruined appliances, the utility does not typically reimburse customers for items damaged during weather-related outages, encouraging neighbors to contact their homeowners or renters insurance carriers to see if their policies will cover the losses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
An emergency resolution to address disgraced Boston City Councilor Tania Fernandes Andersons continued employment on a six-figure taxpayer-funded salary was blocked by an objection.

The late filing was introduced at Wednesdays Boston City Council meeting.

Its the first time that the body has met since Fernandes Anderson pleaded guilty to federal public corruption charges on Monday in connection with a kickback scheme.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

City Councilors Erin Murphy and Ed Flynn said the emergency resolution couldnt be filed until after the District 7 Councilors guilty plea, and thats why it wasnt on Wednesdays agenda.

Its not like Councilor Fernandes Anderson had to listen to our recommendation, but it wouldve shown the public where the 12 of us stand on this issue, said At-Large City Councilor Erin Murphy.

At-Large Councilor Julia Mejia objected to the late file and insisted on explaining why.

I decided to speak against it because not all individuals are in this chamber, and were talking about something thats in reference to a colleague, said Mejia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Visibly absent from Wednesdays meeting was Fernandes Anderson.

A letter read out loud from Fernandes Anderson stated that she was not in attendance due to a family emergency.

She previously stated outside federal court on Monday that she wasnt planning on resigning until next month.

It looks like June. Hopefully, once we get the budget out of the way, she said.

Several city councilors, including City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune, have been calling on her to resign since December.

I think its inappropriate after you plead guilty to federal charges to engage in discussions about the budget, said District 2 City Councilor Ed Flynn.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

State law says an elected official will be terminated from their state elected position after theyre sentenced to federal prison.

Flynn and Murphy are adamant for action now and are filing this item to be added to next Wednesdays agenda.

I think there will be some pushback from some city councilors who dont want this to go forward, added Flynn. They believe that bringing this to the attention of the media and the public reinforces how dysfunctional this body is.

Fernandes Anderson would have to step down by Thursday, May 8th, for a special election to be held.

Shes scheduled to be sentenced on July 29th.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The government is recommending a sentence of one year and one day in prison followed by three years of supervised release and $13,000 in restitution.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
AMHERST, Mass. (WWLP)  The Emily Dickinson Museum in Amherst is celebrating the completion of its reconstructed carriage house.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Tuesday. The carriage house once stood to the east of The Evergreens, which was the home of Emily Dickinsons brother.

UMass Amherst awards $65K to student ventures at Innovation Challenge finale

It has been reconstructed sustainably, maintaining its historical appearance. The building will serve as a welcome center, museum shop, and help launch the final phase of restoring Dickinsons homestead.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Executive Director Jane Wald told 22News, Its a very special place. We think that visitors enjoy being able to encounter her physical environment. And that gives them a window into her poetry. To understand where it came from. The struggles and the appreciation for nature and the wider world.

The Evergreens also officially reopened. It has been closed since August 2024 because of the carriage house construction project.

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.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
A man charged a second time with invading Eminem's Clinton Township home was found guilty Wednesday on counts of first-degree home invasion and aggravated stalking.

Matthew David Hughes, 32, was arrested last August, three days after Clinton Township Police say he was seen on the rapper's property. He was detained at a Walmart. Court records listed his address as a Gratiot Avenue motel in Clinton Township.

Matthew David Hughes, left, pictured in a 2020 mugshot provided by the Macomb County Sheriff Office. Rapper Eminem is seen in a 2015 photographed.

Unlike a similar incident in 2020  when Hughes broke into the house and awakened Eminem  he did not confront the rapper during the August invasion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Eminem testified Wednesday morning in the jury trial, which started Tuesday before Macomb County Circuit Judge Diane Druzinski. After a half-hour of deliberation Wednesday afternoon, the jury returned guilty verdicts on both counts.

More: Accused Eminem song leaker makes first appearance in Detroit federal court

Sentencing is scheduled for June 17.

Hughes' Wednesday conviction comes 25 years to the month after the release of "The Marshall Mathers LP," which featured the enduring hit "Stan"  a song about an obsessive fan.

Hughes was booked into the Macomb County Jail on Aug. 30, according to online jail records. During a preliminary examination on Dec. 19, he was ordered to have no contact with Eminem, identified in court records under his legal name, Marshall Bruce Mathers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hughes did not post the $500,000 bond set by the judge and remained in jail through trial.

In the 2020 case, Hughes was arrested on Eminems property that April during the early weeks of the COVID-19 quarantine. The rapper told police he awakened to find a stranger standing behind him. When Eminem asked why he was in the home, Hughes said he was there to kill him, a detective told the court.

Hughes reached a plea deal in that case and was sentenced in September 2021 to five years probation. After being arrested by Taylor police that November for simple assault, he was found to have violated probation and was sentenced to prison.

Hughes was released on May 15, 2024, and was on parole, with a supervision discharge date of June 19, 2026, according to the Michigan Department of Corrections website.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hughes was also arrested in June 2019 after he was found sleeping in the guest house of a Rochester Hills property previously owned by Eminem.

Contact Detroit Free Press music writer Brian McCollum: 313-223-4450 or bmccollum@freepress.com.

Free Press staff writer Christina Hall contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Eminem stalker convicted after second invasion of rapper's home
Kazakhstan strikes key deal with WB to reinforce economic stability

Photo: National Bank of Kazakhstan

A delegation from the National Bank of Kazakhstan, led by Chairman Timur Suleimenov, attended the IMF and World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington. They signed a Framework Agreement with the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development to strengthen Kazakhstan's institutional and expert capacity, aiming to enhance economic and financial stability. Suleimenov also met with IMF Deputy Managing Director Bo Li to discuss bilateral cooperation. The meetings covered global economic challenges, including slow growth, rising debt, trade conflicts, and the need for institutional reforms.

Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register
CLEARWATER BEACH, Fla. (WFLA)  Crews are at work stabilizing and repairing a cracked pillar in a Clearwater Beach condo building. On Tuesday, residents were forced to evacuate from the South Beach condo structure.

Aurora Donnelly is one of dozens who received evacuation orders.

What goes through your head is Miami, right? So, Im running down the stairs saying, Oh my gosh, I hope the building doesnt fall down,' Donnelly said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Support columns in the back of the building are taped off. Leaders with the Clearwater Fire and Rescue Division say construction crews saw a crack in one of the beams, noticed the split getting bigger and called first responders.

Residents evacuated from Clearwater condo after cracks found in pillar underneath building

You have a support column thats displaced, so its probably a couple feet wide, at least. Its still splitting and again, its one of the main supports for the structure, Chief Jevon Graham said.

The 12-story, 140-unit condo building was constructed in 1980. According to the Clearwater permitting website, the structure was inspected last May.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its a very inconvenient thing, but they were able to evacuate the building in time, nobody got hurt and nobody will get hurt. I strongly believe the engineers, the fire department and police are doing the right things, resident David Zusman said.

The Red Cross is assisting displaced residents. Graham said there isnt a clear timeline for repairs and that residents likely wont be able to return until structural engineers give the all clear.

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.
Canvassers collect signatures as part of the Protect Utah Workers coalition at the University of Utah campus in Salt Lake City on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. The organizations behind the signature effort hope to place a referendum on Utah ballots that would undo controversial legislation restricting collective bargaining for public sector employees including teachers and first responders. (Photo by Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch)

The controversial law that bans public unions from collective bargaining is on hold, for now.

Utah Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson issued a temporary hold on HB267 Tuesday, part of an ongoing effort from labor groups to overturn the bill through a referendum.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In Utah, qualifying for a referendum  which is when voters choose to enact or repeal a law during an election  requires signatures from at least 8% of the states voters, which is roughly 141,000 people. That 8% threshold must also be met in 15 of the states 19 Senate districts. The signatures must be gathered in just 30 days.

According to Hendersons office, county clerks around the state have processed and certified 245,513 signatures. And data analyzed by political consulting and public affairs firm Morgan & May shows that the 8% threshold has also been met in 23 Senate districts.

The temporary stay will likely remain in place until the 2026 general election, which is when voters will decide whether HB267 should remain law.

Lawmakers narrowly passed HB267 during the legislative session in February, and Utah Gov. Spencer Cox signed it on Valentines Day. It prohibits public sector unions (like a teacher or police union) from negotiating terms of employment with the employer (like a school district or a city).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Unions were staunchly opposed to the bill, protesting every step of the legislative process. In March, labor groups came together to form the Protect Utah Workers coalition to announce they would be gathering signatures in hopes of qualifying for a referendum to overturn the bill. The coalition included groups like the Utah Education Association, the Professional Firefighters of Utah and the Utah Fraternal Order of Police.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

For 30 days, thousands of volunteers gathered signatures, hoping to meet the 141,000 threshold  and on April 16, the coalition announced it had submitted 320,000 signatures to county clerks across the state, which they say is the most signatures ever gathered for a referendum in Utah. By April 28, data showed that the coalition would likely qualify to put a referendum on the ballot.

County clerks still have until the first week of May to verify outstanding signatures  once a signature is verified, its made public, opening a 45-day window where the voter can choose to rescind their support for the referendum, if they choose.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Protect Utah Workers coalition celebrated the news on Tuesday, telling Utah News Dispatch HB267 is a deeply unpopular bill.

Connor Sikes, 22, right, an intern with the Granite Education Association, helps Kelly Watanabe, 22, add her signature to a petition as part of the Protect Utah Workers coalition at the University of Utah campus in Salt Lake City on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. The organizations behind the signature effort hope to place a referendum on Utah ballots that would undo controversial legislation restricting collective bargaining for public sector employees including teachers and first responders. (Photo by Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch)

Throughout the referendum process, we saw firsthand that voters overwhelmingly respect public workers and the vital services we provide to our communities, the coalition said in a statement. Union members across Utah stood shoulder to shoulder to accomplish what many thought was impossible. We could not have come this far without thousands of volunteers and voters who made their voices heard. This is proof that when workers unite, we win.

Proponents of the bill say HB267 will protect taxpayer dollars while giving all public employees a voice, not just union members. The bills sponsors  Rep. Jordan Teuscher, R-South Jordan, and Senate Majority Leader Kirk Cullimore, R-Sandy  said unions shouldnt be negotiating terms of employment if they dont represent a majority of the employees.

The group Utahns for Worker Freedom is among those supporting HB267  spokesperson Cole Kelley on Tuesday said the group was focused on educating voters and securing a ballot victory. The bill will enhance classroom education and safeguard Utahs workers and taxpayers through practical reforms, Kelley said in a text message.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As voters learn more about HB267, theyll see why our Legislature passed it and the governor signed it into law. Were confident the voters will vote HB267 into law, Kelley said.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
ANDERSON  Officials with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency heard concerns from local residents about the water quality in Anderson.

The EPA officials were in Anderson Tuesday to discuss the Broadway Superfund site and explain the process.

But several residents brought up the quality of the citys water and wanted to know what can be done about their concerns.

Betsy Nightingale, a Superfund section supervisor, said they were not in Anderson to discuss the water quality, but would take their concerns to the EPAs drinking water division.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Matt Prater, branch chief for the Indiana Department of Environmental Management Drinking Water Division, said testing of Andersons water in February found no volatile organic compounds in the water.

EPA officials said they do not monitor the water entering or leaving a water treatment plant.

Were here to talk about the Superfund site and not drinking water, said Ruth Muhtsun, community involvement coordinator with EPA.

Clara Copps, the EPAs remedial project manager for the Anderson Superfund site, said no sites have been identified as contributing to the contamination found in the citys Ranney Well Field.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The process is ongoing, she said. We are researching historical operations.

Copps said the Broadway site is currently the only Superfund site being investigated.

There will be site visits during the assessment process this summer, she said.

Copps said there was evidence of volatile organic compounds found in three wells when IDEM did a survey in 1999.

The water from the Ranney wells is going through the water treatment plant, she said.

The city installed air strippers at the Wheeler water treatment plant to reform the volatile organic compounds from the water.

Copps said the Broadway site is in the remedial process. EA Engineering & Technology was hired in 2024 to develop a work plan.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We dont have the boundaries set for the site, she said. Its early in the investigation. Our focus is along Killbuck Creek. Were still working to determine the source of the contamination.

Copps said the investigation will look at ground and surface water for contamination and the process could take the next four years to characterize the contamination.

She said monitoring wells will be installed on the Broadway site in the summer of 2026.

We want to get a solid idea of the risk and locations of the contamination, Copps said.

The Wheeler well field site was added to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys Superfund site in 2018.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

IDEM submitted a request to add the area to the list in August 2017, after years of monitoring and investigation.

As part of a $130 million upgrade of the water system , the city is seeking to close the Wheeler Avenue treatment plant and discontinue the use of the five wells in the area.
ANKARA (Reuters) - Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan spoke by phone on Wednesday with Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to convey his solidarity after India hit Pakistan and Pakistani Kashmir with missiles, the Turkish presidency said.

Pakistan, which has strong ties with Turkey, said it had shot down five Indian aircraft and vowed to retaliate further, in the worst clash between the nuclear-armed neighbours in more than two decades.

During the call, Erdogan told Sharif that Turkey supported what he called Pakistan's "calm and restrained policies" in the crisis, his office said in a statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Erdogan also said he found "appropriate" Islamabad's call for an investigation into an Islamist militant attack that triggered the crisis. The militants killed 26 people in Indian Kashmir in the attack on April 22. Pakistan denies Indian accusations that it was linked to the attack.

"Erdogan stated that Turkey was ready to do what it can to prevent the tensions from escalating, and that his diplomatic contacts in that regard would continue," it said.

Turkey has previously condemned India's attack and called on both sides to act with common sense. Turkey's Foreign Ministry said the latest military action by India created the risk of an "all-out war".

Ankara also maintains cordial ties with India.

(Reporting by Huseyin Hayatsever and Ezgi Erkoyun; Editing by Daren Butler and Gareth Jones)
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  Erie County DMVs have seen long lines and fully booked appointment times leading up to May 7, which is when being Real ID-compliant will be required to fly or enter federal buildings.

Since Ive been Erie County Clerk, this is the highest volume that weve seen at all of our auto bureaus, said Erie County Clerk Michael Kearns. Last year in 2024 between January and April, we were at about 24,000, approximately, license transactions. Were nearing now at the same period for 2025, January to April, nearly 56,000.

Kearns said to be Real ID-compliant, people need either a Real ID, an enhanced drivers license, a valid passport or a Nexus card.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tomorrow is the enforcement date, it doesnt mean that May 7th is the last date you can get or become Real ID compliant, so dont worry about it if youre not flying or not traveling, he said. Well still take you in. Well have many appointments in the future, but tomorrow is the enforcement day.

WIVB News 4 spoke to some visitors of the Erie County DMV in West Seneca on Tuesday, the day before the enforcement day, to see what the process has been like for them.

Resident Jean Demarco said her DMV experience was very efficient and quick.

It took me almost a month to secure all the papers that I need to have because I needed two marriage licenses and one divorce paper, and finding all the other documents that you need, and I had to search for them, she said. Thats the secret is to make sure you have everything you need.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For some near future flyers, theyre visiting the DMV to make sure they are Real ID-compliant ahead of the requirement.

I cant say that I didnt have time to plan for it, Im just saying going through the process and making sure you got all the paperwork and stuff, and knowing that it will come on time, its just the biggest, frustrating thing to make sure that youre going to be able to catch your flight, said Jamal Coleman, who has a flight to California in two weeks. Im just hoping for the best at this point.

It was fine, I came here about a week and a half ago and it was mayhem, the line was out to the parking lot, Danielle Barry said. I had a little break from work, so I made the appointment and got in line right away so it went smoothly.

Barry applied for her enhanced license while her kids applied for their Real IDs so they can travel to Keewaydin Island in three weeks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That was a little nerve-wracking because we cant go on vacation if they dont have it now, but theyre going to all have it now, Barry said.

Kearns said that the countys DMVs are at capacity. He believes the offices will be busy past May 7 and throughout the end of the month. While the DMVs are taking walk-ins, he recommends making an appointment.

Were at capacity and all of our appointments have been taken, Kearns said. If you can wait a couple of days or a week, that would really help our team.

For more information about Real IDs, visit the Erie County Clerks website here or make an appointment by calling (716) 858-8864.

Latest Local News

Hope Winter is a reporter and multimedia journalist who has been part of the News 4 team since 2021. See more of her work here.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Its aimed at bringing attention to mental health issues and reducing stigma.

We spoke with local mental health professionals about the services that are available to our community.

Blind Tiger receives investment of nearly $200K thanks to PA program

It gives people the opportunity to make people know that their mental health is just as important as your physical health.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mental Health Awareness Month has been around since 1949, and the time is used as a way to address the challenges faced by millions of Americans.

It gives us the opportunity as a mental health professional to know that our mental health is important and get those check ups and make sure we are up to date on how we are feeling emotionally just as much as going to our doctors visits and physical health, said Stacey Buettners of UPMC Western Behavioral Health at Safe Harbor.

What should you look out for? First would be a change in sleep, appetite and mood.

Millcreek Twp. offering free waste removal with spring cleaning efforts

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But also times that you notice a change and impact that it might be having on our day-to-day functioning, relationships and the work that we do at school too, Buettners explained.

We were told Erie, for its size, is very lucky to have so many accommodations and services for people with mental health issues.

NAMI of Erie provides peer support groups and family support groups free of charge.

Its for those struggling with mental health to learn about the services and treatments that are available in the community.

MACC Food Pantry expands options, offering special options this week

Mental health its important for us to continue to normalize the conversations so its important people dont attribute shame or feeling less than if they are having mental health challenge and will feel receptive and confident to seek the help that they need, Wendy Jacobs, the executive director NAMI of Erie County, went on to say.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For more information on the services that the two organizations have, check out NAMI of Erie Countys website and UPMC Behavioral Health at Safe Harbors website.

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Daily 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 WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com.
Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna has confirmed that Estonia would not allow the aircraft carrying leaders heading to the Victory Day parade in Moscow to pass through its airspace. [Victory Day is a Russian holiday commemorating the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in 1945, celebrated on 9 May  ed.]

Source: Estonian public broadcaster ERR, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Tsahkna said on Wednesday afternoon that Estonia would not permit planes carrying leaders to the Russian capital to fly over its territory, confirming earlier media reports that all Baltic states had taken a similar stance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tsahkna stressed that there could be no question of allowing the guests of Kremlin ruler Vladimir Putin to fly over Estonia.

"Estonia does not intend to support the event in any way. Moreover, we have stressed to our European Union colleagues that as Russia is a country that launched and continues a war in Europe, participation in propaganda events organised by them should be ruled out," the minister stated.

Background:

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic are expected to be the only European guests attending Victory Day celebrations in Moscow.

Latvia has officially confirmed it will not permit Vucics aircraft to transit its airspace.

Following reports in Serbian media, Lithuanian outlets have also confirmed that Vilnius intends to deny overflight permission to both Vucic and Fico.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
By Julia Payne

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The European Commission has proposed listing 15 additional new entities and individuals to its sanctions framework on Russian hybrid threats as well as individuals suspected of using chemical weapons in Ukraine, EU sources said on Wednesday.

Russia is waging a more than three-year-old full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The world's chemical weapons watchdog OPCW said in November last year it had found evidence of tear gas use on Ukraine's frontline with Russia without assigning blame.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The use of riot-control agents such as tear gas as a method of warfare is prohibited under the Chemical Weapons Convention, the non-proliferation treaty overseen by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). The United States and Ukraine have accused Moscow of violating the convention. The Kremlin has denied these accusations.

EU envoys began discussions on a 17th package of sanctions against Russia on Wednesday that focuses on Russia's military machine as well as Moscow's shadow shipping fleet and its support system.

These two packages as well as a third set of measures that would add 25 entities and individuals, mainly the latter, suspected of violating human rights were being discussed in parallel.

As part of the 17th package, member states are expected to agree to list about 140 new ships, mainly tankers, and 70 entities and individuals over the next week. New listings are initiated by the EU's diplomatic arm, the EEAS, whereas sector-wide sanctions are led by the Commission.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sources said the EU is likely to list major Russian oil company Surgutneftegaz, which Washington targeted in January as part of a sweeping crackdown on Russia's energy trade.

(Reporting by Julia Payne; editing by Mark Heinrich, Kirsten Donovan)
The European Commission has proposed adding 15 new individuals and entities to its sanctions framework targeting Russian hybrid threats and suspects linked to the use of chemical weapons in Ukraine, EU sources told Reuters on May 7.

In November 2024, the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) reported evidence of tear gas use along the front line in Ukraine, though it did not assign responsibility. Under the Chemical Weapons Convention, the use of riot-control agents like tear gas as a method of warfare is banned. Both the United States and Ukraine have accused Russia of breaching the treaty, claims that the Kremlin denies.

EU ambassadors began talks this week on a 17th sanctions package targeting Russias military-industrial complex, Moscows shadow shipping fleet, and related support networks. Two other sanction proposals are also under discussionone targeting individuals suspected of human rights violations and another focused on hybrid threats.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As part of the new sanctions round, EU member states are expected to agree to blacklist approximately 140 shipsmostly tankersand around 70 individuals and entities. A third package under review would add another 25 individuals and entities, mostly for alleged rights violations.

Sources say the EU is also expected to list Surgutneftegaz, a major Russian oil producer already sanctioned by the United States in January during its broader crackdown on Russias energy sector.

While the European External Action Service (EEAS) initiates new listings, sector-wide measures remain under the Commissions authority.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukrainian drone strikes hit two Russian defense plants, grounding flights in Moscow, security service says

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. (AND NO SPAM!) Just click here.

It's coming.

No leader, no matter how autocratic and dictatorial, can survive having made the plethora of mistakes that Xi has made:

 He neglected selling his products to his own people, opting instead to export them to the United States. About 20 percent of China's exports end up in the US and only about one-third of its production of goods and services is consumed domestically!

 He picked a trade war with the US, ignoring China's incredibly greater vulnerability. The fact is that Washington only sells less than $200 billion to China while we buy $500 billion from them. Losing the American market is a catastrophe for China but losing the Chinese market is only an inconvenience to the US. People in glass houses shouldn't throw stones.

 He bet that the US would tolerate a huge trade deficit with China indefinitely, oblivious to the political calculus of Donald Trump.

 He has turned the clock back on all of the capitalist reforms of Deng Xiaoping that made the Chinese economy work and replaced them with Maoist statist solutions that have, as they always do, failed to bring growth. China's economy had no growth in the first quarter and likely wont rebound this quarter.

 He has done nothing to counter the rapid decline in China's working age population, condemning it to a drop in population to the point where the US will be larger by the century's end. China is becoming a nursing home.

 Denied the legitimacy of Marxist doctrine, Xi depends on materialism and economic growth to stay in power. Now he has neither one.

 His foreign policy is a throwback to the days when the West imposed debt slavery on the third world. Just as Britain, France, Germany and Portugal did. In order to get his hands on food, raw materials and rare earth minerals, he has enticed dictators to borrow money they can't repay that ends up in their Swiss bank accounts so he can seize their resources as repayment.

Dictators, unlike Puff's magic dragon, do not live forever. The Chinese communist system may or may not fall but Xi's time is limited.

The likelihood is a coup like the one in Moscow in 1964 that toppled the reformist and mercurial Nikita Khrushchev and replaced him with the more reliable and stolid Leonid Breshnev.

But, of course, without the fundamental reforms that are needed, there will be no economic progress and the new leadership will just go the way of the ancien regime.

Xi's predicament can best be solved by waging war to unite and motivate his people and stave off his ouster.

To deter him, Trump must make clear that an invasion of Taiwan would quickly lead to a total embargo on all American trade with China, an existential threat to Beijng.

Trump called Xi's bluff and now his back is against the wall  the great wall of China.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, May 7. Uzbekistans Uztextileprom Association signed a memorandum of understanding with a delegation from the Korea Electrical Industry Cooperative (KEIC), led by Chairman Chon Myong Hwa, Trend reports via Uztextileprom.

The delegation included key representatives from KEIC, including CEO Baek Byung Nam, and directors from companies such as Hapdong Electronics, Shinwon Electronics, Chang Hung Telecom, Ora System, DH Media Tech, and Soldia.

In the course of the meeting, Mirziyod Yunusov, Chairman of Uztextileprom, and Vice Chairman Faridun Abdualimov discussed the organizations' activities and objectives. KEIC Chairman Chon Myong Hwa highlighted the visits aim to explore Uzbekistans investment climate and identify new opportunities for collaboration in the electrical engineering sector.

Shin Yeon In, Director of DH Media Tech, noted that Uzbekistan was the first country selected for the companys overseas expansion. He shared insights into the DHMT Global plant in Chirchik, launched in 2024, which produces audio equipment under the KOMT brand. This success has encouraged other Korean companies to explore cooperation with Uzbekistan.

Yunusov also provided detailed information about the state of Uzbekistan's electrical engineering industry, its cooperation with Korea, and the favorable conditions for new investment projects.

The sides exchanged ideas on enhancing cooperation in investment, specialist training in Korea, technology adoption, and experience sharing. The parties reaffirmed their commitment to further collaboration and the agreements reached during the talks.



Meanwhile, trade turnover between Uzbekistan and South Korea reached $1.8 billion from January to November 2024, reflecting the growing bilateral economic ties.
European Union foreign ministers are to meet on Wednesday in Warsaw for two days of informal talks focused on the bloc's changing relation with the United States and the ongoing war in Ukraine.

The return of Donald Trump to the White House at the beginning of the year has significantly changed the political winds in the EU.

After steadily increasing trans-Atlantic trade, the EU has become a target of Trump's unpredictable trade policies.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bloc still hopes to resolve a conflict over currently suspended additional tariffs on EU imports to the US worth billions through negotiations.

The fallout from the US administration's U-turn on support for war-torn Ukraine is also on the agenda.

EU ministers are expected to discuss how to strengthen Ukraine's position ahead of possible peace talks and how to increase pressure on Moscow.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha is expected to debrief EU ministers on the latest on Russia's war.

British Foreign Secretary David Lammy is to join his EU counterparts on Wednesday as the rapid geopolitical shifts help reconcile relations roughly five years after the UK left the bloc.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Talks with Lammy are expected to focus on cooperation on defence and security issues ahead of an upcoming EU-UK summit in London later in May.

Foreign ministers of EU candidate countries are invited to take part in talks on Thursday focused on security and hybrid threats.
European Union foreign ministers on Wednesday started discussions on new sanctions on Russia, EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas announced.

"We are working on the 17th package of sanctions to really put pressure on Russia," said Kallas, as she arrived at a two-day meeting of EU foreign ministers in Warsaw focused on the bloc's relations with the United States and the war in Ukraine.

The EU needs to mount pressure on Russia in order for Moscow to want peace in Ukraine, Kallas added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

With the last sanctions package on Moscow adopted in February focus has shifted to the so-called Russian shadow fleet.

These often uninsured ships with murky ownership help Moscow evade Western oil price caps and transport stolen Ukrainian grain. They are considered a security and environmental hazard.

Ships hit with sanctions are no longer allowed to enter the EU and ship owners' assets in the bloc can be frozen.

Kallas also expressed optimism about raising billions of euros for military aid for Ukraine, even though many EU countries are struggling with bleak economic prospects.

"We are working on this and we have received commitments," she said, adding "hopefully, we'll get it together."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Tuesday the European Commission proposed a ban on Russian imports of gas to the bloc in an effort to end the bloc's energy dependence and cut Moscow's revenues.

The talks in Warsaw come as Europe is faced with the fallout from the US administration's U-turn on support for war-torn Ukraine.

The EU is pressured to intensify efforts on strengthening Ukraine's position ahead of possible peace talks without further support from Washington, while boosting its own security and defence capacities.

"Ukraine can rely on Europe and everyone in Moscow must know that they have to count with us. Europe will defend and support Ukraine by all means," said new German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

British Foreign Secretary David Lammy joined his EU counterparts on Wednesday as the rapid geopolitical shifts help reconcile relations roughly five years after the United Kingdom left the bloc.

Talks with Lammy focused on cooperation on defence and security issues ahead of an upcoming EU-UK summit in London later in May.

On Thursday, EU foreign ministers are to discuss the impact of Donald Trump's return to the White House on global trade.

After steadily increasing trans-Atlantic trade, the EU has become a target of Trump's unpredictable trade policies.

The bloc still hopes to resolve a conflict over currently suspended additional tariffs on EU imports to the US worth billions through negotiations.

Foreign ministers of EU candidate countries, including Ukraine's Andrii Sybiha, are invited to take part in talks on Thursday focused on security and hybrid threats.
The European Parliament intends to keep the EU accession process for Turkey frozen due to the "ongoing deterioration of democratic standards" in the country.

Turkey's "geopolitical and strategic importance cannot make up for the governments democratic backsliding, and EU membership criteria are not up for negotiation," the members of parliament (MPs) said in a non-binding resolution published on Wednesday.

While the parliament acknowledged the democratic and pro-European aspirations of a significant portion of Turkish society, it expressed deep concern over the worsening democratic standards and the "relentless suppression of critical voices."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The resolution condemned, for example, the harsh response to recent peaceful mass protests and the prosecution of hundreds of demonstrators in rushed mass trials. It also described the "attacks on Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu as "a politically motivated move aimed at preventing a legitimate challenger from standing in the upcoming elections."

Such actions are moving the country "towards a fully authoritarian model," the EU lawmakers said.

Imamoglu is considered a strong contender against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the forthcoming elections.

In March, he was initially detained, later arrested, and subsequently removed from his position as mayor of Istanbul. He was stripped of his university degree prior to his arrest. A higher-education qualification is a prerequisite for running for president in Turkey.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Observers have raised significant doubts about the substance of the evidence presented. The presidential candidate from the social-democratic CHP faces allegations related to corruption and terrorism investigations, which he denies.

The EU accession negotiations with Turkey began in 2005 but have been entirely stalled due to the country's continued regression in the areas of democracy, the rule of law, and fundamental rights.
The European Union has snapped up advanced manufacturing capacity for at least 478 million doses of pandemic flu vaccine, surging ahead in the race to prepare for a possible bird flu outbreak in humans.

According to data from the health analytics firm Airfinity, the EU now has signed agreements with seven manufacturers to reserve vaccines  including a new deal unveiled last week with CSL Seqirus for a further 27m doses.

Although governments including Canada and the UK have reserved more doses per person, the EU has the largest and most diverse supply chain for a possible influenza pandemic.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As reported in the Lancet last week, the recent emergence of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus infections in dairy cows and humans in the US has raised alarms regarding the potential for a pandemic.

Over 995 dairy cow herds and at least 70 humans have been affected, including cases of severe disease and the first reported H5N1-related death in the U.S.

This emerging threat has caused health authorities across the globe to quietly start planning for a possible spillover to humans, with a clear focus on vaccine supply.

The shots the EU now has on standby do not constitute a stockpile. Rather than amassing a store of ready-to-use vaccines which protect against known strains of bird flu, the bloc has bet big on reserving access to outbreak-specific shots.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These would be produced after a pandemic was declared and the exact strain of the virus was known  giving the best chance of the jabs being efficacious in humans.

Richard Bennett, lead analyst at Airfinity, said the EU was also hedging its bets by doing deals with seven different firms.

This diversification reduces the risk of supply disruption if one manufacturer encounters production issues, and prevents monopolising capacity from any single supplier, he said.

Other countries have also set about reserving access to as-yet-unmade vaccines. Germany has secured production capacity or 400 million doses, under a framework that would also distribute manufactured jabs to the wider European Union.

Vaccine resilience and flexibility

Meanwhile the UK and Canada have reserved 100m and 80m doses respectively. Although this equates to more shots per person than the EU has access to (1.5 per capita for Britain, two for Canada and one for the EU), the supply chains are less diverse. Canada is reliant on GSK, while the UK has a single deal with CSL Seqirus, according to Airfinity.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Unlike the other countries included in the analysis, the US does not have enough doses to cover its entire population. Mr Bennet said this is unsurprising, given previous [US] demand for pandemic vaccines.

During the H1N1 swine flu outbreak in 2009, national vaccine coverage was just 27 per cent, though this jumped to 69.5 per cent during the coronavirus pandemic.

Still, the superpower has 250m doses of pandemic flu shots reserved with CSL Seqirus and Sanofi, plus a stockpile of 20m shots against known strains of bird flu already circulating.

Most countries depend on a handful of manufacturers for pandemic flu vaccines. Seven companies produce over 85 per of global supply, leaving national stockpiles vulnerable to geopolitical tensions, production delays, or supply chain shocks, the Airfinity analysis warned.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The EU has reduced reliance on single suppliers by securing contracts with multiple manufacturers, creating a more resilient and flexible vaccine procurement strategy during emergencies.

Production delays and vaccine nationalism

The coronavirus pandemic highlighted the threat of vaccine nationalism, production delays and export restrictions. Indias export bans, for instance, stalled the rollout of shots from Covax, which sought to buy immunisations for developing countries.

The US also imposed limits on the export of vaccines and the critical equipment and materials needed to make them, while the EU threatened to block the export of AstraZeneca shots made for the UK government in the Netherlands.

Ray Longstaff, director for Pandemic and Outbreak Preparedness and Response at CSL Seqirus, said the company has designed its manufacturing network and contracts to ensure minimum disruption in the face of these sorts of threats.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In our agreements, we have supplied safeguards and comprehensive information about how we will not only meet the timelines  but also the kind of preparedness measures that we put in place to protect supply chains, he said. Its something that we take very seriously.

CSL Seqirus Liverpools refrigerated warehouse, where vaccines for flu  including H5N1  are stored before shipment - Simon Townsley/The Telegraph

The company  which has manufacturing sites in the UK, US and Australia  is one of the worlds largest producers of seasonal flu shots. It also has a bird flu vaccine programme, plus a separate initiative to create pandemic-specific vaccines. If the WHO declared a pandemic, all manufacturing would switch to solely respond to the given outbreak.

The pharmaceutical firms latest deal reserves 27.5m pandemic flu doses for 17 participating EU member states, which would be manufactured at the CSL Seqirus site in Liverpool using an egg-based production method. The company now has deals to supply pandemic shots to more than 30 governments worldwide, including the UK.

Mr Longstaff said he could not discuss specifics of the contracts  which include reservation fees that are invested in maintaining readiness and preparedness  and downplayed the ramifications of potential tensions between governments in a pandemic scenario.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He also stressed that the company would support lower income countries through the WHOs Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) framework. Agreed after the 2009 swine flu outbreak, this requires companies to donate 10 per cent of their pandemic influenza shots, in real time.

This principle has also been incorporated into the new WHO pandemic treaty, set to be approved at the World Health Assembly in Geneva later this month, in an attempt to ensure that wealthy countries are not the only ones who have access to medical countermeasures in the event of an outbreak.

Protect yourself and your family by learning more about Global Health Security

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.
Investing.com -- Brussels is preparing to propose tariffs on Boeing (NYSE:BA) aircraft as part of a broader response plan if ongoing trade talks with Washington fail to yield progress, the Financial Times reported on Wednesday.

Citing two sources familiar with the discussions, the report notes that the European Commission plans to include civilian aircraft on a list of around 100 billion worth of U.S. imports that could be targeted.

These measures, however, would only come into effect if the EU sees insufficient movement from the U.S. on easing existing tariffs. Approval from a weighted majority of EU member states would be required before any action is taken.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

U.S. President Donald Trump imposed a minimum 20% tariff on nearly all EU exports on April 2 as part of his "reciprocal" trade approach, though he later reduced it to 10% for a 90-day period to allow room for negotiations.

Other U.S. tariffs25% on EU steel, aluminium, and carsremain in place. In response, the EU has suspended retaliatory duties on 21 billion of American goods, such as Harley-Davidson (NYSE:HOG) motorcycles, clothing, and poultry, until July 14 to support ongoing talks.

Unless a deal is struck by then, a new round of EU tariffs, potentially targeting aircraft and chemical products, could be implemented, the report said. The draft list of targeted items is expected to be sent to member states shortly, though it may still be revised, it added.

European Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic told the European Parliament on Tuesday that the bloc would not be pressured into accepting a one-sided tariff agreement with the United States.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While talks remain the preferred path, he said the EU is preparing additional countermeasures should negotiations break down.

"All options remain on the table here," he stated, emphasizing that the U.S. must now demonstrate a willingness to move toward a fair outcome. We do not feel weak. We do not feel under undue pressure to accept a deal, which would not be fair for us, he added.

Sefcovic noted that current U.S. tariffs affect 70% of EU exports to America, a figure that could climb to 97% if further trade actions target pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and other goods. He also highlighted the EUs broader trade efforts beyond the U.S., pointing to ongoing talks with India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Malaysia.

Related articles

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

EU targets Boeing with potential tariffs amid stalled U.S. talks- FT

Electronic Arts raised by HSBC after strong quarter, MoffettNathanson cuts rating

Walt Disney shares gain 8% as earnings, outlook beat estimates
EUCLID, Ohio (WJW)  Euclid police are investigating after multiple shots were fired Wednesday afternoon on a residential street.

Chief Scott Meyer told the FOX 8 I-Team more than a dozen shots were fired on Hemlock Drive around 3 p.m.

Multiple homes and multiple vehicles struck, Meyer said. So far, we have not had any reports of injuries.

What the NTSB has learned about Mondays fatal plane crash in Ashland County

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Meyer said he did not know the motive for the shooting. He added that police are questioning several people and so far no arrests have been made.

We are still processing the scene, Meyer said. The investigation just started.

Anyone with video or information on the shooting is asked to call Euclid police detectives as soon as possible.

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.
(Reuters) -The European Union's health regulator said on Wednesday it was reviewing French drugmaker Valneva's chikungunya vaccine after reports of serious side effects in older adults.

The European Medicines Agency's (EMA) safety committee has temporarily suspended the use of the vaccine, branded as Ixchiq, in adults aged 65 years and older.

The company said it will continue to monitor the reported events and cooperate with health authorities, while actively exploring a potential update to the vaccine's indication.

Ixchiq -- the first preventive shot against chikungunya virus to be authorized in the Europe as well as the U.S. -- contains a weakened strain of the virus that triggers the immune system to make antibodies.

The vaccine carries the risk of causing severe chikungunya-like adverse reactions, the EMA said in a statement.

Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne disease caused by the chikungunya virus. The most common symptoms of the infection are fever and joint pain.

About 17 serious adverse events, including two deaths, have been reported so far globally in people aged between 62 and 89 years who had received the vaccine, the agency said.

Two men aged 84 years and 77 years who had received the vaccine died in the French overseas territory of La Reunion, where a recent chikungunya outbreak has been reported.

The exact cause of the adverse events and their relationship with the vaccine have not yet been determined, the agency said, adding that the affected individuals also had other health conditions.

The French government suspended the use of the vaccine in persons aged 65 years and older last month pending investigation.

Advisers to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had recommended the vaccine last month for adults traveling to a country or territory where there is a chikungunya outbreak. The recommendation is yet to be signed off by the CDC.

(Reporting by Mariam Sunny in Bengaluru; Editing by Tasim Zahid and Shinjini Ganguli)
The European Union has vowed to end all imports of Russian energy by 2027 in a push to make Vladimir Putin pay for his war in Ukraine.

Policymakers in Brussels said the bloc will end all purchases of Russian oil, gas and nuclear energy over the next two years, stepping up attempts to sever ties with the Kremlin following its invasion in 2022.

Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, said: The war in Ukraine has brutally exposed the risks of blackmail, economic coercion and price shocks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is now time for Europe to completely cut off its energy ties with an unreliable supplier  We owe this to our citizens, to our companies and to our brave Ukrainian friends.

The renewed push comes after the EU saw a rebound in imports of Russian gas last year, from 43 billion cubic meters (Bcm) in 2023 to 52 Bcm in 2024.

The EU had previously slashed its consumption of Russian natural gas by around 70pc since the start of the war, down from peak volumes of around 150 Bcm.

However, the European Commission said it now believes further action is needed to end energy imports from Russia altogether.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Current projections show Russian gas will likely continue to account for around 13pc of the EUs total imports this year.

Ten EU member states continued to import Russian gas in 2024  including Italy, Spain, France and Germany  with around two thirds of those volumes purchased via long-term contracts and the remaining third bought on spot markets.

Oil imports from Russia have also dropped from 27pc of the EUs total supplies at the start of 2022 to just 3pc today. However, three member states  Czechia, Slovakia, and Hungary  continued importing Russian oil last year.

As part of the new restrictions, EU member states will be required to provide their own national plans to end imports of Russian energy by the end of this year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The EU said it will also provide additional funding to member states to help them replace Russian gas supplies with new supplies of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from countries such as the US, Canada and Qatar.

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.
Brussels plans to introduce transitional measures to protect Ukrainian exporters if the European Commission and Kyiv fail to amend the EU-Ukraine free trade agreement by 5 June, when the autonomous trade measures, known as the trade visa-free regime, expire.

Source: European Commission spokesperson Olof Gill at a briefing in Brussels on 7 May, as reported by an European Pravda correspondent

Details: Gill noted that transitional measures may be introduced for Ukrainian exporters after the end of the trade visa-free regime to prevent trade conditions from returning to pre-war restrictions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"As you all know, the autonomous trade measures expire on 5 June," he noted. "The intention of the Commission is not to extend the autonomous trade measures beyond that date."

He pointed out that the European Commission's current priority is "to work on the review of the EU-Ukraine deep and comprehensive free trade area, the DCFTA as we call it".

"We've made that very clear from the start," Gill added. "We want to upgrade the DCFTA in order that we can offer long-term predictability and stability to operators in both the EU and Ukraine."

The move is expected to bolster Ukraines gradual path toward EU membership, while also addressing sensitive issues within the EU, particularly in the agri-food sector, he added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Quote: "We know that there are time constraints. Therefore, we are also looking at possible transitional measures in case the negotiations for reviewing the DCFTA are not finalised and applied by the 6th of June. So we will also discuss these potential transitional measures with Ukraine."

Background: The European Commission does not intend to extend the regime of autonomous trade measures for Ukraine, which will remain in effect until 5 June. However, plans are in place to ensure a smooth transition to a new framework, where all terms of trade liberalisation will be outlined in a free trade agreement between Ukraine and the EU.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, May 7. Deputy Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade of Uzbekistan Ilzat Kasimov met with Wong Jiabo, Director of the Representative Office of the Chinese company Bedley Hong Kong International in Uzbekistan, Trend reports, citing the Ministry of Investment, Industry, and Trade.

The discussions centered on the key aspects of ongoing projects, explored opportunities for expanding cooperation, and examined potential avenues for strengthening the partnership between Uzbekistan and Bedley Hong Kong International.

Founded in 2019, Bedley Hong Kong International operates in the construction, mining, and geological exploration sectors. By 2024, the companys capital had reached $5 billion, and its workforce had grown to 3,000 employees.
The European Commission is working to open all negotiation clusters during Ukraine's EU accession talks in 2025.

Source: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at a plenary session of the European Parliament in Strasbourg, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Von der Leyen said that the European Commission is working to open negotiation clusters with Ukraine and hopes that all clusters will be open in 2025.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We are working hard with Ukraine to open the first cluster of accession talks and to open all clusters in 2025," she said.

Von der Leyen added that "peace and European integration have always gone hand-in-hand" in the history of Europe.

"Lets bring Ukraine inside our Union. Lets walk the path of peace together. Slava Ukraini, long live Europe!" she stated.

Background:

Earlier, von der Leyen also stated that she considers Ukraine's membership in the EU to be the strongest security guarantee.

The Ukrainian leadership and the European Commission had ambitious plans for the pace of negotiations on accession in 2025, but Hungary's veto blocked them.

Budapest organised a consultative poll on Ukraine's accession to the EU  Hungarian PM Viktor Orban has already publicly voted against it.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are such tiny countries that if Russia wished to take a bite out of them, as it took bites out of Georgia in 2008 and Ukraine in 2014 and 2022, it would simply swallow them whole. To make themselves less toothsome, they have armed themselves and forged alliances with Europe and the United States. But the American side of that alliance suddenly looked less dependable in March, when President Donald Trump dressed down Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office and accused him of starting the war that began with his own countrys invasion. If that scene looked catastrophic in Washington or Kyiv, consider how it might have looked from the Baltics.

Soon after, I visited these states to find out how they planned to survive with the American support of their security in question. Russia parted with these states reluctantly in 1991, and Russian President Vladimir Putin has called their alliance with NATO a serious provocationlanguage and logic identical to his rationale for attacking Ukraine. In Washington, opponents of Trump and friends of Ukraine were enraged by his reversal, and freaked out by it. In the Baltics, the concern was more muted, and even top diplomats acknowledged upsides to Europes frantic race to rearm itself.

Everyone understands now, Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna told me, that there is no situation anymore where someone else is coming to solve Europes problems. He said Estonia understood this reality long ago, and welcomed the belated realization by others. I personally like this change of attitude.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

[Read: A wider war has already started in Europe]

A certain amount of optimism must be a psychological necessity for leaders of the Baltic states. They share borders with Russia and its partner Belarus, and unlike Ukraine, they do not have hundreds of miles of steppe between Russia and their capitals. The Baltic states are tiny, each about the size of West Virginia. During the past century, the Baltic states were ruled from Moscow, and they would like to avoid that fate in the future.

In 1968, the historian Robert Conquest published The Great Terror, at the time the most unsparing account of the state-directed megadeath supervised by Joseph Stalin in the 1930s. After the books publication, some readers remained skeptical: Could the Soviet Union have been that bad? In fact, it was worse. But for years before his vindication, Conquest was accused of Russophobia. After glasnost, when he revised his old book, his publisher asked him to come up with a snappy new title. His friend Kingsley Amis suggested I Told You So You Fucking Fools. (The publisher eventually went with The Great Terror: A Reassessment.)

The urge to say I told you so, with or without accompanying expletives, is strong these days throughout the Baltics. The three former Soviet republics have, like Conquest, found themselves vindicated after years of accusing Moscow of planning and committing a wide range of sins. Could Putin really be planning, as Baltic leaders had suggested for years, to invade and retake the former Soviet states? In fact he was. All three republicsmembers of NATO since 2004have supported Ukraine vigorously since its 2022 invasion. All three have taken only the coldest comfort in knowing that their warnings were true.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Already Baltic governments have encouraged their citizens to stock enough food in their home to weather an emergency, and to have plans for rendezvous outside the capitals. Its not an easy talk to have with your family, Deividas Slekys, a defense analyst in Lithuania, told me. People become scared, because suddenly its not a movie anymore. Its reality. It helps to have still-living memories of Soviet rule. In Tallinn, the signs of mental preparation for a Russian invasion are omnipresent. About a quarter of the Estonian population is ethnic Russian; they speak Russian at home, and in many cases they maintain close connections to Russians in Russia. But in public spaces, the Russian Federation and the Soviet Union are roundly despised. Estonia maintains a state museum dedicated to the evils of the Soviets and their suppression of Estonian nationhood and identity. It equates Communism with Nazism and spends much more time on documenting the crimes of the former. During an intermission at the Tallinn opera, an older Estonian man caught me staring up at the sprawling, Soviet-era socialist realist ceiling mural, which depicts Communism triumphant. He pointed out a smudgy area where a Leninist slogan (Art belongs to the people) had recently been effaced in an ongoing effort to de-Russify.

We have been living here 7,000 years and have never witnessed any good things coming to Europe from the east, Tsahkna told me. He was previously Estonias defense minister, from 2016 to 2017, and said the sight of Russians mustering at the border had long concentrated the Estonian collective mind. At that point, on the other side of the border, there were 120,000 troops ready to go within 48 hours. But he said Estonia and its Baltic neighbors were constantly assured that the era of war in Europe had passed, and that their concerns no longer applied. Europe didnt believe a full-scale brutal war, like what we saw last time during the Second World War, was possible.

Now, Tsahkna said, his European allies have realized their error. When I visited the Baltics, Germanys Parliament had just voted to spend about $1 trillion on its militarya budgetary allocation that would have been inconceivable before the invasion. And on the streets of Baltic capitals, one sees NATO soldiers constantly. I met German soldiers, in uniform, at a cafe in Vilnius. In Tallinn, at the airport, British soldiers were eating hamburgers in the food court, and Prince William, colonel in chief of the Mercian Regiment, was in town to inspect his troops at a British camp just 100 miles from the Russian border. American soldiers are on the border with Belarus.

But is Europeans coming to their senses enough to compensate for Americans losing theirs? Tsahkna seemed remarkably blase about the American presidents having begun to repeat Kremlin propaganda wholesale and assert, ludicrously, that Ukraine started the war with Russia. But Tsahkna told me Estonia had in many ways improved its position since the beginning of the Ukraine warand he denied that Trumps preposterous assertions and constant questioning of the value of NATO were significant. I dont see a change in Americas commitment to NATO, he said. He noted that Trump called himself very committed to NATO in the meeting where he argued with Zelensky. (After Trump said he was very committed to Poland, he was asked directly by a reporter at the meeting, What about the Baltics? He stammered through a response and said he was committed to NATO, conspicuously not mentioning the Baltic states by name.)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tsahkna pointed out that U.S. troops have been in all three Baltic countries since the annexation of Crimea, and that the first Trump administration had overseen the rise in their numbers. Im a practical person, so I look at the agreements we have made, and what I see in real life. What I see is U.S. troops in Estonia. Before, he said, we had no permanent presence of NATO troopsno U.S. troops here, no British, no French. He said Estonia now feels more secure than ever. Equally noteworthy, Tsahkna said, was the decline in the number of Russian troops on the other side of the border. They are not existing anymore there, he said, delicately. Then he dropped the euphemism to make sure I saw his point about the 120,000 Russians formerly camped out there. They were sent to Ukraine. Theyre dead.

[Read: Trump sided with Putin. What should Europe do now?]

In the last two years, a defense analyst in Latvia told me, we have seen Russia go from being the second-strongest army in the world to being the second strongest in Ukraine. (His joke is part of the standard humor repertoire in the region.) In all three countries, people repeatedly referred to Ukraine as a war that has bought time for other countries that might otherwise have been soft targets for Russia. Skelys, the Lithuanian defense analyst, said that his country had always had plans to mobilize its population and defend itself. But since the Ukraine invasion, that capacity became activated. We were on sleep mode, he told me. Ukraine was supposed to lose in a couple of weeks. But then people rose up. We saw that, and now its a much different game in the Baltics. That time, he said, has not been wasted. Were moving in a direction where every single adult citizen knows what to do in time of war: drivers, sausage makers, paramedics. Maybe you are a good IT guy and youll be trolling Russian trolls.

And he agreed with Tsahkna, saying the geopolitical picture had changed in some positive ways since the Ukraine invasion. Poland and Finland have redoubled their support, and the latter joined NATO in 2023 after decades of neutral dithering. Suddenly the idea of taking back the Baltic states became a much more complicated affair. If you want to attack the Baltics, you have to do something with Poland and Finland, Skelys said, because keeping control of these small states is impossible with well-armed enemies right next door. If you want to attack Lithuania, you have to attack Latvia and eastern Poland. Its become a much bigger game.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The building of alliances is the opposite of Trumpism. I told Tsahkna, as I was leaving the foreign ministry in Tallinn, that I found it odd that American liberals in Washington were so horrified by Trumps equivocation over Ukraine, while those actually inside Russias artillery range were relatively calm. Russia has even larger-scale plans for the future, he assured me, and he said that after its campaign of overwhelming force had proved so underwhelming in Ukraine, it was resorting, as expected, to hybrid warfare: sabotage, espionage, information ops. But he left me with a soft dig at D.C. worrywarts. We are very practical people, he said. We dont have the luxury to be sad and afraid.

Article originally published at The Atlantic
HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT)  The Department of Justice says a coordinated effort to identify and arrest child sex predators resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders during a nationwide crackdown, including an Evansville man charged with possession of child pornography earlier this year.

A release from the department of justice says suspects arrested around the country during Operation Restore Justice allegedly committed various crimes, including online enticement and transportation of minors, child sex trafficking, and the production and distribution of child sexual abuse material. Among those arrested were a state trooper and Army Reservist in Minneapolis who allegedly produced child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms.

Former Owensboro superintendent sentenced to 30 years in prison

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the Southern District of Indiana, four individuals were arrested and charged with federal crimes following the operations:

Raymond Robert Lapensee Jr, 33, of Evansville  Three counts of possession of sexually explicit material involving minors

James Dean Collett Jr, 29, of New Albany  Four counts of sexual exploitation and two counts of possession of child pornography

Eric Lee Dicken, 35, of Columbus  Possession of child pornography

Beau Thornburgh, 45, of Lebanon  Possession of child pornography.

In February, Lapensee was charged with 15 counts of possession of child pornography following an investigation that began in January of 2024. Evansville Police say they discovered a total of 1,794 images and 50 videos from Lapensees devices, including several files containing bondage and bestiality. Following this operation, Lapensee will now be tried in federal court.

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).
Screenshot from a video on the U.S. Census bureau website.

The first United States Census was taken at the dawn of the nation in 1790, under George Washingtons presidency and then-Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson (Census). The Census is the oldest continuous data collection effort run by the federal government, and is collected every 10 years, shaping the countrys data infrastructure for over two centuries.

At its core, it is meant to be an official, complete count of the United States population. It may record details about people such as age, gender and living arrangements. But more than that, the census is critical to the well-being of children and the entire U.S.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Why? Here are a few things the census can do for all of us:

Representation: The census determines how many seats each state gets in the House of Representatives and is used to draw Congressional and state legislative districts.

Funding: It plays a pivotal role in determining how we fund federal programs like Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), highway planning and the Pell Grant program.

Research: Governments and nonprofits utilize the census data to make decisions, such as planning community services, infrastructure and housing developments, and determining where hospitals get built.

Equity: If done correctly, the census can shed light on disparities within states and communities, helping to fight for racial, economic and geographic equity.

The census isnt perfect, though. Unfortunately, children  especially young children, Black and Brown children, children experiencing homelessness, and children in low-income households  are most often routinely undercounted. This creates serious consequences for education, health care and other pivotal support programs.

And recently, there have been emerging efforts to erode trust in the census through misinformation, loss of advisory committees and attacks on census participation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In March, following executive orders to terminate unnecessary advisory committees, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick disbanded three critical groups: the Census Scientific Advisory Committee, the National Advisory Committee on Racial, Ethnic, and Other Populations, and the 2030 Census Advisory Committee.

These groups offered scientific and technical guidance, including cybersecurity, survey methodology and strategies for reaching diverse populations. They have historically been bipartisan, improving census quality and community trust. Their loss will make it harder to design effective outreach and ensure vulnerable populations are fully counted.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

Undermining the census in these ways weakens the foundation of the Kids Count data we use at the Michigan League for Public Policy  and important data used by organizations across the nation who serve kids and families. Kids Count relies heavily on accurate resident population and demographic estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When census data is incomplete or unreliable  due to disbanded advisory committees, underfunded surveys, or the strategic addition of sensitive questions to suppress participation  it directly compromises our ability to measure and track child well-being at national, state and local levels.

According to Count All Kids, the count of young children was even worse in 2020 than in 2010. Researchers and advocates cant make the case for necessary policy solutions if we are undercounting vulnerable children. When kids are counted, it gives their communities more power to secure funding for programs that matter.

Trust is crucial to ensuring full census participation. Title 13 of the United States Code guarantees the confidentiality of census responses, making it illegal for the Census Bureau to publish or share identifiable information. It is important that people know their information is protected under federal law  this helps maintain public trust and participation, even amid political concerns. Building trust through community-based outreach, using locally trusted messengers, remains key. We must also demand policies that restore advisory committees and protect childrens data. Investing in census education and community engagement hubs, and ensuring strong data privacy protections, will be critical for the 2030 Census.

The census is not simply a count  its the cornerstone of fair resource distribution and democratic representation. Preparing and advocating for the 2030 Census shouldnt begin in 2029. It begins today. Protecting our data is protecting our democracy, and we must act to ensure that every person is seen, valued and counted.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Michigan Advance is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Michigan Advance maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor for questions: info@michiganadvance.com.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
A major change goes into effect for air travel and federal building access, starting May 7.

After years of delays and reminders, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security REAL ID Act is rolling out nationwide. The initial REAL ID deadline was in 2020, but it was ultimately pushed back due to the widespread effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

For those planning to board a domestic flight or enter certain federal facilities, the standard drivers license may no longer be the acceptable identification. However, there are a few stipulations as to why this may not entirely be the case for everyone in all states.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While getting a REAL ID isnt hard, applicants will need to plan accordingly. Heres everything travelers will need to know about what the REAL ID is, who needs one, how its different from whats already in your wallet, and what could happen if you dont have it.

Related: A Real ID Wont Be Required in These 5 States  What Travelers Will Need Instead

What Is the REAL ID and Why Was It Created?

The REAL ID is a form of identification that meets higher security standards set by the federal government. Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005, enacting a recommendation from the 9/11 Commission that set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses.

The Act prohibits federal agencies, including the TSA, from accepting state-issued drivers licenses or identification cards that do not meet those minimum standards for accessing federal facilities, such as courthouses, nuclear power plants and military bases, and boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A REAL ID looks similar to a regular drivers license. However, a major difference will be the star that appears on the upper right corner. That star symbolizes the identification card is REAL ID-compliant.

Who Needs a REAL ID?

Most U.S. adults will need a REAL ID if they plan to fly domestically or to visit federal facilities that require identification. Children under 18 wont need one if theyre flying with a companion who has acceptable ID.

Travelers who rely on a drivers license for air travel and dont have another federally accepted ID (like a passport or military ID) will require a REAL ID.

Enhanced Drivers Licenses (EDL) issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards and will also be accepted for official REAL ID purposes. Most EDLs do not contain the star marking and this is acceptable.

Getty Shot of queue of passengers waiting at boarding gate at airport. Group of people standing in queue to board airplane Shot of queue of passengers waiting at boarding gate at airport. Group of people standing in queue to board airplane

How Do You Get a REAL ID and What Documents Are Required?

Unlike standard licenses issued by states, REAL IDs require stricter documentation to obtain. That means your identity, residency and legal presence in the U.S. have all been verified with federal standards in mind.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To get a REAL ID, applicants will need to visit their local DMV in person  applying online is not available at this time. Applicants are encouraged to double-check their states DMV website to guarantee they have the proper paperwork, as specific requirements may be requested on a state level. Generally speaking, applicants will need to bring:

One proof of identity (like a U.S. birth certificate or passport)





One proof of Social Security number (like a Social Security card or W-2)





Two proofs of state residency (like a utility bill or rental agreement)





Proof of name change (if your current name is different from your birth certificate or ID, such as a marriage license or court order)

Applicants will need to bring originals or certified copies of all documentation  photocopies will not be accepted.

Related: Planning to Fly Next Year? Here's Everything to Know About the REAL ID You'll Need to Travel

What States Dont Require the REAL ID?

Residents of Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington have more flexibility with the REAL ID requirement than other states. These states offer options beyond the standard REAL ID, including Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs) and Enhanced IDs (EIDs), which double as proof of citizenship and work for travel to places like Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, by both land and sea.

What Happens If You Dont Have a REAL ID?

Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant at TSA checkpoints on or after May 7, 2025, and who do not have another acceptable alternative form of ID will be notified of their non-compliance, and may be directed to a separate area and may receive additional screening. The same goes for federal buildings that require identification.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While a REAL ID isnt mandatory for everyone, its essential for anyone who plans to fly or access secure federal sites.

For more information, visit the official website of the Department of Homeland Security.

Read the original article on People
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO)  Rockford Police arrested Jordan Bickler, 24, for allegedly breaking into his former residence that was condemned due to a fire.

The landlord told authorities she believes Bickler was responsible for the fire, according to court records.

On May 5, around 10:30 a.m., officers were called to the 1000 block of Harlem Boulevard for reports of property damage. Police found Bickler walking on Main Street and took him into custody.

Jordan Bickler. Photo: Winnebago County Jail

The owner of the home told officials the suspect was still living in the home even though he was evicted on December 21, 2024. When asked about a structure fire that happened on April 28, Bickler smirked, the landlord told authorities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A tenant alerted the owner that Bickler was still living on the second floor of the unit and had caused damage to the house by forcing his way into the residence.

Officers were shown four separate door frames with significant damage, according to court records.

Bickler is charged with criminal trespassing to a residence and criminal property damage.

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.
EVANSVILLE, Ind. (WEHT)  Evansville-Vanderburgh School Corporation Superintendent Dr. David Smith delivered his final State of the Schools address.

Smith has served in the EVSC for 43 years, and has been the superintendent for the last 14 years.

Were told one of his greatest contributions will be the leadership team he is leaving behind.

During the address, Dr. Smith spoke about the schools programming, its partnership with Southern Indiana Career and Technical Center and early college classes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The school corporation offers over 300 certifications and makes over 250 internships available to students.

Were told a new superintended is expected to be named this month. Dr. Smiths official last day is July 1.

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).
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE)  A now former Monroe County corrections officer is facing misconduct charges following an investigation by special agents with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.

At the request of 10th Judicial District Attorney General Stephen Crump, TBI agents began an investigation in December 2022 into allegations of misconduct and reports of contraband being brought into the Monroe County Jail. After taking office in 2024, Attorney General Stephen Hatchett requested the TBI continue their investigation.

Sheriff: Hawkins County homicide under investigation

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Wednesday, the Monroe County Grand Jury returned an indictment against 34-year-old Cody Harrill. She faces one count of official misconduct and one count of introduction of contraband. Harrill turned herself in and was booked into the Monroe County Jail. She was released on her own recognizance.

 See more top stories on WATE.com

According to a TBI release, agents determined that she brought contraband into the jail while working as a corrections officer and allowed others to do the same.

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.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, May 7. President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev will pay a working visit to Moscow on May 8-9 at the invitation of President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, Trend reports

According to the schedule of the visit, the leader of Uzbekistan will take part in solemn events on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the Victory in World War II, as well as hold several bilateral meetings.

The Moscow Victory Day Parade is an annual military parade of the Russian Armed Forces on Moscow's Red Square on May 9 during the Victory Day celebrations. The most important parade of those being held on May 9 is the one held on Moscow's Red Square, with the President of Russia as the guest of honor and keynote speaker in virtue of his constitutional mandate as Supreme Commander of the Russian Armed Forces. The parade is a commemoration of the capitulation of Nazi Germany to the Red Army, marking the end of the Eastern Front of World War II, known in Russia as the Great Patriotic War.
NEW YORK (AP)  Days into Harvey Weinstein 's first sexual assault trial in 2020, prosecutors privately spoke for the first time with a former model who alleged that he had forced oral sex on her.

But that jury was never told about Kaja (KEYE-ah) Sokola's claim. Prosecutors have said they still were investigating the allegation when Weinstein, a onetime movie tycoon-turned- #MeToo pariah, was convicted in February 2020 of charges based on other women's accusations.

On Wednesday, Sokola began to tell a new jury her story.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sokola didn't look at Weinstein as she walked past him and onto the witness stand in a Manhattan courtroom where he's on trial again. An appeals court overturned his 2020 rape and sexual assault conviction, sending those charges back for retrial, and prosecutors subsequently added another sexual assault charge based on Sokola's allegations.

As she began testifying about her life before the alleged 2006 assault, Weinstein looked toward her, with his right hand across his mouth.

Weinstein, 73, has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. His lawyers contend that his accusers consented to sexual encounters with him in hopes of getting movie and TV opportunities, and the defense has emphasized that the women stayed in contact with him for a while after the alleged assaults.

The women, meanwhile, say the Oscar-winning producer used the prospect of show business work to prey on them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Polish-born Sokola, 39, is a psychotherapist and author and said she recently launched a film production company.

She sued Weinstein after industry whispers about his behavior toward women became a chorus of public accusations in 2017, fueling the #MeToo movement against sexual misconduct. Prosecutors have said Sokola eventually received $3.5 million in compensation.

Sokola testified that she was never interested in modeling  but rather in acting and writing  but her mother and sister decided she should enter a Polish modeling contest at age 14. She won a contract with a modeling agency and was soon juggling middle school with photo shoots.

The next two years were a very fast growing-up lesson, she said. By 2002, she was 16 and in New York to make the modeling rounds, without any of relatives on hand.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sokola, who's expected to continue testifying Thursday, hasn't been asked yet about Weinstein. Prosecutors have said she was introduced to him while on that 2002 modeling trip to New York.

In her lawsuits, Sokola said that shortly after she met Weinstein, he invited her to lunch to discuss her career but then sexually assaulted her. The lawsuits alleged he sexually harassed and emotionally abused her for years afterward.

The criminal charge stems from one instance when Sokola maintains that Weinstein forcibly performed oral sex on her in a Manhattan hotel in May 2006.

Prosecutors have said it happened after Weinstein arranged for Sokola to be an extra in the film The Nanny Diaries and met her visiting older sister, whom she was trying to impress.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She was proud of knowing him, her sister, cardiologist Dr. Ewa (pronounced EH-vah) Sokola, told jurors Wednesday.

She said the three of them met in a hotel lobby, chatted about Italian movies and the heavyset Weinstein's heart health, and then he and the model left the table together.

Kaja Sokola was tense when she returned about a half-hour later  like somebody waiting for the result of an exam or the Oscars  but didn't say anything about the alleged sexual assault, Dr. Sokola told jurors.

She said she was shocked to learn about the claim over a decade later, when she read about it in a magazine article.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Weinstein's lawyers will get a chance to question Kaja Sokola in the coming days. In an opening statement last month, defense attorney Arthur Aidala questioned why she waited years to come forward. Prosecutors have argued that accusers were reluctant to speak up because of Weinstein's wealth and influence.

Prosecutors have said they began investigating Sokola's claims after her attorneys called on the eve of Weinstein's first trial. But prosecutors set the inquiry aside after he was convicted and the coronavirus pandemic loomed.

They revived the Sokola investigation after New York's highest court reversed Weinstein's conviction.

Weinstein's lawyers fought unsuccessfully to keep Sokola's allegation out of the retrial. They accused prosecutors of smuggling an additional charge into the case" to try to bolster other accusers' credibility.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One of the others, Miriam Haley, testified last week that Weinstein forced oral sex on her in 2006. The third accuser in the case, Jessica Mann, is expected to testify later.

The Associated Press generally does not name sexual assault accusers without their permission, which Haley, Mann and Sokola have given.
Days into Harvey Weinstein s first sexual assault trial in 2020, prosecutors privately spoke for the first time with a former model who alleged that he had forced oral sex on her.

But that jury was never told about Kaja (KEYE-ah) Sokolas claim. Prosecutors have said they still were investigating the allegation when Weinstein, a onetime movie tycoon-turned- #MeToo pariah, was convicted in February 2020 of charges based on other womens accusations.

On Wednesday, Sokola began to tell a new jury her story, according to the Associated Press.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sokola didnt look at Weinstein as she walked past him and onto the witness stand in a Manhattan courtroom where hes on trial again. An appeals court overturned his 2020 rape and sexual assault conviction last year, sending those charges back for retrial, and prosecutors subsequently added another sexual assault charge based on Sokolas allegations.

As she began testifying about her life before the alleged 2006 assault, Weinstein looked toward her, with his right hand across his mouth.

Weinstein, 73, has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. His lawyers contend that his accusers consented to sexual encounters with him in hopes of getting movie and TV opportunities, and the defense has emphasized that the women stayed in contact with him for a while after the alleged assaults.

The women, meanwhile, say the Oscar-winning producer used the prospect of show business work to prey on them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Polish-born Sokola, 39, is a psychotherapist and author and said she recently launched a film production company.

She sued Weinstein after industry whispers about his behavior toward women became a chorus of public accusations in 2017, fueling the #MeToo movement against sexual misconduct. Prosecutors have said Sokola eventually received $3.5 million in compensation.

Sokola testified that she was never interested in modeling  but rather in acting and writing  but her mother and sister decided she should enter a Polish modeling contest at age 14. She won a contract with a modeling agency and was soon juggling middle school with photo shoots.

The next two years were a very fast growing-up lesson, she said. By 2002, she was 16 and in New York to make the modeling rounds, without any of relatives on hand.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sokola, whos expected to continue testifying Thursday, hasnt been asked yet about Weinstein. Prosecutors have said she was introduced to him while on that 2002 modeling trip to New York.

In her lawsuits, Sokola said that shortly after she met Weinstein, he invited her to lunch to discuss her career but then sexually assaulted her. The lawsuits alleged he sexually harassed and emotionally abused her for years afterward.

The criminal charge stems from one instance when Sokola maintains that Weinstein forcibly performed oral sex on her in a Manhattan hotel in May 2006.

Prosecutors have said it happened after Weinstein arranged for Sokola to be an extra in the film The Nanny Diaries and met her visiting older sister, whom she was trying to impress.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She was proud of knowing him, her sister, cardiologist Dr. Ewa (pronounced EH-vah) Sokola, told jurors Wednesday.

She said the three of them met in a hotel lobby, chatted about Italian movies and the heavyset Weinsteins heart health, and then he and the model left the table together.

Kaja Sokola was tense when she returned about a half-hour later  like somebody waiting for the result of an exam or the Oscars  but didnt say anything about the alleged sexual assault, Dr. Sokola told jurors.

She said she was shocked to learn about the claim over a decade later, when she read about it in a magazine article.

Harvey Weinstein appears in state court in Manhattan on Wednesday, May 7. - Spencer Platt/Getty Images

Weinsteins lawyers will get a chance to question Kaja Sokola in the coming days. In an opening statement last month, defense attorney Arthur Aidala questioned why she waited years to come forward. Prosecutors have argued that accusers were reluctant to speak up because of Weinsteins wealth and influence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Prosecutors have said they began investigating Kaja Sokolas claims after her attorneys called on the eve of Weinsteins first trial. But prosecutors set the inquiry aside after he was convicted and the coronavirus pandemic loomed.

They revived the Sokola investigation after New Yorks highest court reversed Weinsteins conviction.

Weinsteins lawyers fought unsuccessfully to keep Kaja Sokolas allegation out of the retrial. They accused prosecutors of smuggling an additional charge into the case to try to bolster other accusers credibility.

One of the others, Miriam Haley, testified last week that Weinstein forced oral sex on her in 2006. The third accuser in the case, Jessica Mann, is expected to testify later.

The Associated Press generally does not name sexual assault accusers without their permission, which Haley, Mann and Sokola have given.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
NEW YORK CITY (PIX11)  A former high-ranking NYPD official admitted to covering up a drunk driving crash in an unmarked NYPD vehicle, prosecutors said.

Paul Zangrilli, a former Deputy Inspector, pleaded guilty on Wednesday to tampering with evidence, falsifying records and operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, according to the Manhattan District Attorneys office.

More Local News

The nearly 20-year veteran was charged in June after prosecutors discovered he had driven a department-issued car while drunk after his girlfriend, who had also been drinking, crashed the car into a cab.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

His girlfriend, Nikole Rupple, also pleaded guilty to driving while intoxicated, prosecutors said.

Zangrilli admitted to drinking four shots and six beers before getting behind the wheel. Then, he lied to cops and made the bar owner delete surveillance camera footage of the two at the bar, according to his plea deal.

Former Deputy Inspector Zangrilli misused his authority to cover up a dangerous drunk driving incident, said District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

Zangrilli was initially suspended without pay, then lost his job with the NYPD, according to his plea deal. Zangrilli wont serve jail time, but his license is suspended for 90 days and he cannot work for the NYPD for three years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.

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 PIX11.
Former Strafford County Sheriff Mark Brave is seeking mercy for his crimes.

The state Attorney Generals Office says his sentence should send a message to all public officials.

Brave is asking a judge to spare him from having to spend time in prison after he pleaded guilty to lying to a grand jury about stealing nearly $19,000 in taxpayer money for multiple trips involving three lovers in extramarital affairs, according to court documents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As part of his request for fully suspended sentences on two perjury charges, Brave, 39, begs the court to accept his proposed sentence in mercy, saying he accepted responsibility for his crimes, according to the defenses sentencing memorandum. The document also noted Braves lack of criminal history.

The Attorney Generals Office, however, wants Brave to serve the maximum sentence of 7 to 14 years in prison, according to its sentencing memorandum filed in court earlier this week. As part of a fully negotiated plea deal, nine charges Brave had faced will be dismissed.

Judge Daniel St. Hilaire is set to hear the arguments and sentence Brave in Strafford County Superior Court on May 19.

In February, Brave pleaded guilty to charges of theft by deception, falsifying physical evidence and two counts of perjury  all Class B felonies. The plea deal calls for the theft and falsifying charges to be fully suspended. Brave must repay about $18,970 and agree to not seek employment in law enforcement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In its 26-page sentencing memorandum, the AG says Brave used multiple county-issued credit cards to pay for extravagances in his personal and romantic life and lied under oath to a grand jury. Brave blamed the investigation on political vendettas and racial biases, the AG said.

Brave spent approximately an hour and 45 minutes lying about virtually every aspect of his repeated thefts  sometimes repeating old lies, sometimes telling new ones, and sometimes attempting to reconcile differing lies, the memo reads.

One lie involved going on a luxury dinner cruise and a stay at the Long Wharf Marriott in Boston, which he claimed to be a charity fundraiser. Brave testified he stayed at the hotel alone before being confronted by surveillance footage showing him enter the hotel room with a woman.

Brave abused his power and public trust, the AG said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The sentence in this case must aid to repair the damage done by the defendants crimes to the public perception of the integrity of the criminal justice system and government institutions generally, including assuring the public that law enforcement officials (and other individuals) are sufficiently deterred from undermining the integrity of proceedings by committing perjury, the memo reads.

Braves attorney, Leif Becker, also submitted a proposed sentencing memorandum saying Brave deserves mercy as he is a single father and is working toward repaying the misappropriated money. Brave is now operating Brave Courier Services after multiple failed attempts at employment, according to the defenses memo.

Becker called the prosecutions recommendation a disproportionately harsh sentence because of the high-profile nature and media attention.

Mr. Brave through his conduct put the life he had built and his entire professional career in jeopardy, Becker wrote. In a desperate situation, hoping to salvage his career and concerned about not being there for his daughter, the Defendant compounded his bad conduct by lying to the grand jury.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The court should treat the case with leniency, Becker said.

Mr. Brave begs the Court to accept his proposed sentence in mercy, and to consider his mitigating factors: his lack of criminal history, his acceptance of responsibility for his crimes, the negotiated consequences to his ability to seek future employment and the significant consequences he has already begun to suffer as a result of his actions, Becker wrote.
A former WWE wrestler was indicted by a Tennessee grand jury after he allegedly attempted to purchase child pornography last year, according to prosecutors.

Michael Droese, known as Duke The Dumpster Droese during his WWE days from 1994-96, is facing one count of attempted sexual exploitation of a minor  a class D felony  after the FBI was tipped off to allegations.

This charge became aggravated because Mr. Droese intended to purchase the child sexual assault material, said Chris Stanford, the District Attorney General of the 31st Judicial District in Tennessee, in a release on Monday. Purchasing child sexual assault material is an aggravated crime because the money used to purchase the material is what continues to make child sexual assault material profitable for criminal enterprises that produce it and sell across the world.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Droese, 56, allegedly attempted to purchase child pornography from the dark web using his Coinbase account on April 21, 2024, which was flagged by the company, and the transaction was terminated, Stanford said.

Michael Droese was indicted by a grand jury. Warren County Sheriff's Department

Coinbase notified the FBI, which passed along the tip to Warren County Sheriffs Department investigator Jason Walker in March, and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation was then quickly brought in to assist the local investigation.

Undated image of Duke The Dumpster Droese in the ring with Bret Hart. WWF

A grand jury handed down an indictment during the May 2025 session, and Droese turned himself in to the Warren County Sheriffs Department. He was booked and released after posting $10,000 bond.

He is due back in Warren County Circuit Court on May 28 for an arraignment hearing as he faces a possible sentence of two to four years if convicted.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The release also noted that Droese had been working as a DUI coordinator for the 31st Judicial District Adult Recovery Court Program  also known as Drug Court  and worked for the ARC program in various capacities over several years.

He did not work with any children during his time working with the program, and he has been terminated from the position effective immediately, Stanford added.

1994 image of Duke The Dumpster Droese. via Duke "The Dumpster" Droese/Facebook

An article published by the WWE website in 2009 indicated that after Droese settled in Tennessee following his wrestling career, he became an elementary school teacher for students with learning disabilities.

He also said, at the time, that he was training high school athletes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2013, however, he resigned from his teaching job after selling oxycodone to an undercover agent.

He was sentenced to a month in jail, the Southern Standard reported at the time.

Droese had become a familiar face to wrestling fans during the early 90s and developed a rivalry with Jerry The King Lawler, which included a moment where Lawler hit Droese in the head with his own garbage can, which prompted the WWE to apologize.

Duke The Dumpster Droese in 2019. Duke "The Dumpster" Droese/Facebook

Duke The Dumpster Droese in 2020. Duke "The Dumpster" Droese/Facebook

He also developed an early rivalry with a then-young Paul Triple H Levesque, who now serves as WWEs chief content officer.

Drose left WWE in 1996 and continued to perform in smaller promotions around the world off and on.
The State Bar of California's botched rollout of a new exam  a move that the cash-strapped agency made in the hopes of saving money  could ultimately end up costing it an additional $5.6 million.

Leah T. Wilson, executive director of the State Bar, told state lawmakers at a Senate Judiciary hearing Tuesday that the agency expects to pay around $3 million to offer free exams to test takers, an additional $2 million to book in-person testing sites in July, and $620,000 to return the test to its traditional system of multiple-choice questions in July.

Wilson, who announced last week she will step down when her term ends this summer, revealed the costs during a 90-minute hearing called by Sen. Thomas J. Umberg (D-Orange), chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, to find out what went so "spectacularly wrong."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chaos ensued in February when thousands of test takers seeking to practice law in California sat for the new exam. Some reported they couldnt log into the exam because online testing platforms repeatedly crashed. Many experienced screen lags and error messages, struggled to finish and save essays and complained of multiple-choice questions that were worded improperly and included typos.

The question is, how did we come to this place? Umberg said at the beginning of the hearing. And how do we make sure we never ever come back to this place?

Read more: 'Utterly Botched': Glitchy rollout of new California bar exam prompts lawsuit and legislative review

Last year, the State Bar was on the verge of a financial crisis when it announced a plan to develop a new bar exam: Its 2024 budget forecast a deficit of $3.8 million in its admissions fund, which deals with fees and expenses related to administering the bar exam. The fund, it warned, faced insolvency in 2026.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The agency made plans to ditch the traditional national bar exam, which requires test takers to sit in-person, and develop its own exam that would allow for remote testing. The State Bar promoted its plan as a "historic agreement" that would save up to $3.8 million a year.

It's unclear how much the State Bar could pay next year if it goes back to experimenting with its own exam. Its expenses are likely to shift as it pursues a lawsuit against Meazure Learning, the vendor that administered the February test.

But the cost to the State Bar is not just financial. After the exam debacle, the agency faces the embarrassment of reverting to traditional in-person exams in July and the prospect of more scrutiny.

After hearing from February test takers, law school deans and leaders of the State Bar, the Senate committee approved an independent review of the exam by the California State Auditor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Test taker Andrea Lynch told lawmakers she faced constant disruptions during the exam from proctors, technical glitches and computer crashes. Near the end, as she prepared to begin a final section of the exam, a message popped up telling her her exam had been submitted before shed even seen the questions.

This was just not a technical failure, Lynch told lawmakers. It was a systemic failure, a breakdown in the integrity, accessibility and fairness of one of the most important professional milestones in the legal profession. I urge this committee to consider what it means when a test intended to uphold justice fails to deliver it to its own applicants.

Read more: California State Bar files lawsuit against exam vendor after botched tests

The State Bar has filed a civil complaint against Meazure Learning in Los Angeles Superior Court, accusing the vendor of fraud, negligent misrepresentation, and breach of contract by claiming it could administer a remote and in-person exam in a two-day window.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But critics of the State Bar argue that agency leadership bears responsibility for failing to take enough time to develop the new test.

Jessica Berg, dean of UC Davis School of Law, told lawmakers that the State Bars rush to roll out the bar exam and lack of transparency throughout the process caused financial and emotional harm to the test takers and significant financial and reputational harm to the State Bar and the state of California.

The problems that we saw with the bar exam were absolutely predictable and they rest on two pieces of what was going on here  problems with the substance of the exam and problems with the administration of the exam, Berg said.

The hearing explored problems with the exams multiple-choice questions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Two weeks ago, the State Bar revealed that its independent psychometrician  who measures the reliability of exams and recommends scoring adjustments, but is not a lawyer  drafted a subset of 29 multiple-choice questions using artificial intelligence.

Under questioning by Umberg, Wilson, the State Bar's executive director, admitted no lawyer assisted in the initial drafting. She said she did not find out until after the exam that some questions were drafted by Chat GPT.

Wilson also admitted that the State Bar did not copy edit test questions ahead of the exam.

Asked when she learned that some multiple-choice questions had typos, Wilson said after the exam "when I saw it on Reddit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: State Bar of California admits it used AI to develop exam questions, triggering new furor

Then Umberg raised a new concern: the fairness of exam grading.

The State Bar announced Monday that the pass rate for the February exam was 55.9%, the highest spring pass rate since 1965. Last February, the pass rate was significantly lower at 33.9%.

I don't think anyone here has any interest in going back and revisiting this issue for those who pass the bar, but what it tells me is that there are issues with respect to grading, Umberg said.

How do you account for this huge disparity between what happened in the February bar in terms of passage rate and what's happened historically? he asked.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Alex Chan, an attorney who serves as chair of the State Bar's Committee of Bar Examiners, said that despite the bar exam's problems, the grading process remained rigorous and consistent with previous administrations. He attributed the high passing score to the California Supreme Court's approval of his committee's petition to lower the total raw passing score for general bar exam takers to 534 points or higher on the essay, performance test and multiple-choice questions.

The scoring adjustments were not designed to be lenient in any way, Chan said. They were designed to be fair and measured in light of the circumstances and the unprecedented and well documented technical failures.

Wilson also noted that the February 2025 test takers had a higher average raw score on the written section of the bar exam than their 2024 or 2023 cohorts. This is without any psychometric adjustment, she said. So looking apples to apples, these 2025 test takers performed better.

So this deviation was because they were smarter, said Umberg. What would the passage rate have been if the score wasn't lowered?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Donna S. Hershkowitz, the State Bar's chief of admissions, said the overall pass rate would have been 46.9%  still significantly higher than normal  if the minimum raw passing score had not been lowered.

I'll be curious as to what happens next year when we use the old format, Umberg said. In any event  again to assure those who pass  we're not going to go back.

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.
BROOKFIELD, Ohio (WKBN)  The case of a woman who filed a federal lawsuit against Brookfield Township claiming her rights were violated during her arrest has been settled.

Read next: Diagnostic company files nearly $300K lawsuit against Insight

Jennifer Miller claimed that her Constitutional rights were violated by unreasonable seizures and excessive force after she was brought to the Brookfield Police Department for an OVI arrest in November 2023. Miller said she was shoved to the ground in a martial arts style throw, knocking her unconscious.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She filed the federal lawsuit last year against the township, seeking $1 million in damages for her alleged mistreatment during the arrest.

According to documents filed in court Tuesday, both Miller and the Township agreed to dismiss the case with prejudice  meaning the claim cannot be refiled.

Documents state a check was requested and should be on its way, but did not specify the amount. If the check is not received, both parties agreed any further motion to enforce the agreement may be refiled.

An internal investigation previously conducted by former Police Chief Dan Faustino exonerated the involved Brookfield Township officer of wrongdoing. The internal investigation noted it appeared a combination of Millers intoxicated state, resistance to entering the cell and the officers one-handed pull and push to get her into it contributed to the fall and injury.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
By Timour Azhari, Andrew Mills

BEIRUT (Reuters) -The United States has greenlighted a Qatari initiative to bankroll Syria's public sector, three sources said, offering a financial lifeline to the new Syrian government as it seeks to rebuild a state shattered by conflict.

Qatar, which is among Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa's strongest international backers, had been reluctant to act without the blessing of Washington, which imposed sanctions when ousted leader Bashar al-Assad was in power.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Syrian finance minister confirmed in a statement on Wednesday that Qatar was set to provide Syria with $29 million monthly for three months, which can be extended, in order to pay salaries to civilian public-sector workers.

The grant was given a U.S. sanctions exemption, the finance minister said, adding that it will be operated by the United Nations Development Programme.

Sanctions, 14 years of conflict and decades of crony rule under Assad have bankrupted the state and left civil servants living on a pittance. Meanwhile, Sharaa's government has achieved only partial success in convincing wary Western states that he has turned his back on his Islamist past.

Two people briefed on the matter told Reuters that Qatar had been informed about the U.S. green light and said the U.S. Treasury Department's office of Foreign Assets Control was expected imminently to provide a letter confirming that the initiative was exempt from U.S. sanctions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The move suggests a softening of Washington's position, while European states have moved more swiftly to ease their sanctions.

A Syrian financial source said the funding was conditional, and could go only to civilian Syrian public-sector civil servants, with the interior and defence ministries not included.

That reflects Western concerns over the fundamentalist history of the group that now rules Syria and is reconstituting its security forces, the source and diplomats said.

The financial source said the funding was expected to come through starting next month, allowing for a long-awaited 400% salary rise to be gradually rolled out to more than a million state employees over several months.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

AMBIGUITY OVER U.S. SANCTIONS

All sources spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak on the matter.

Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the U.S. Treasury did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Syria's government would come up with the funds to match the salary rise for employees not included in the Qatari-backed initiative, the Syrian source said.

Qatar had planned to provide salary support since soon after Assad was toppled by Islamist rebels Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) last year. The initiative has been held up by ambiguity over U.S. sanctions and the Trump administration's Syria policy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But there are signs that Gulf Arab states have been able to make modest headway in lobbying the U.S. to at least allow for engagement with Damascus, with Saudi Arabia and Qatar last month paying off Syria's debts to the World Bank, which opened the door to grants and loans.

Saudi Arabia also co-hosted a high-level Syria-focused meeting at the IMF and World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington last month, attended by Syria's finance minister and central bank governor for the first time in more than a decade.

ECONOMIC PRIORITY

The previous U.S. administration issued a sanctions exemption on January 6 to allow transactions with Syria's governing institutions for six months, though states and entities seeking to engage with Syria have sought additional guarantees.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Known as a general licence, it marked an effort to ease the flow of humanitarian assistance and allow work with the Syrian energy sector, while keeping sanctions in place overall.

Sharaa has called repeatedly for the lifting of Western sanctions, imposed to isolate Assad for his crackdown during Syria's civil war, which started in 2011.

Boosting the economy, which has now been opened up in a free market experiment after decades of protectionism, is a top priority for Sharaa.

The United Nations says nine out of 10 Syrians live in poverty.

The country's interim finance minister in January said that pay for public-sector workers would be increased by 400% from February at an estimated monthly cost of 1.65 trillion Syrian pounds ($130 million).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He had cited regional aid as one source of funding for the increase.

Western policy in Syria is complicated by the jihadist origins of HTS, the armed group that led the push that ousted Assad and is designated a terrorist group by world powers.

HTS emerged from the Nusra Front, an al Qaeda affiliate in Syria until Sharaa broke ties in 2016. HTS was officially dissolved in January.

(Reporting by Timour Azhari in Beirut and Andrew Mills; Editing by William Maclean and Matthew Lewis)
A delegation from the Alat Free Economic Zone Authority (AFEZ Authority), led by Chairman of the Board Mr. Valeh Alasgarov, paid a visit to the Republic of Korea to promote investment opportunities in the Alat Free Economic Zone (AFEZ). The visit, organized with the support of the Embassy of Azerbaijan in the Republic of Korea, included a series of high-level meetings and a business forum aimed at deepening cooperation with Korean manufacturing companies and key business associations.

The centerpiece of the visit was the business event titled Alat Free Economic Zone: Unlocking the Potential for Korean Manufacturing Companies, held in Seoul. The event brought together representatives of Korean businesses, prominent industry associations, and other stakeholders interested in exploring the advantages offered by AFEZ.

In his opening remarks, Ambassador of Azerbaijan to the Republic of Korea, Mr. Ramin Hasanov, highlighted the dynamic trade relations between the two countries, noting that Korea remains Azerbaijans principal trading partner in the South Caucasus.

Mr. Valeh Alasgarov, Chairman of the Board of the AFEZ Authority, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the unique legislative framework of AFEZ, its attractive fiscal and non-fiscal incentives, strategic location, and availability of industrial land plots with modern infrastructure and utilities. He invited Korean companies to take full advantage of the investment opportunities offered by AFEZ.

The event concluded with productive B2B meetings and networking sessions between Azerbaijani and Korean business representatives.

As part of the official program, Mr. Alasgarov held a series of bilateral meetings with influential Korean trade and investment institutions. He met with Mr. Jihyung Lee, Executive Vice President of the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), where he outlined the business-friendly environment of AFEZ. Mr. Lee expressed strong interest in AFEZ and affirmed KOTRAs willingness to explore collaboration, particularly in promoting Korean investment in the Zone.

The AFEZ delegation also met with Mr. Kim Gi-Hyun, Vice President of the Korea International Trade Association (KITA). Mr. Alasgarov provided a comprehensive overview of the legal and infrastructural advantages offered by AFEZ. Mr. Kim noted that KITA members interested in entering European and broader regional markets would likely see AFEZ as an attractive gateway and stressed the importance of continued cooperation to attract Korean companies.

Additionally, Mr. Alasgarov met with Mr. Yun Wok Sok, Commissioner of the Incheon Free Economic Zone (IFEZ) Administration. During this exchange, both sides shared valuable insights and experiences related to the development and management of free economic zones, laying the groundwork for potential collaboration and knowledge exchange.
By Alexander Cornwell

JERUSALEM (Reuters) - The United States and Israel have discussed the possibility of Washington leading a temporary post-war administration of Gaza, according to five people familiar with the matter.

The "high-level" consultations have centered around a transitional government headed by a U.S. official that would oversee Gaza until it had been demilitarized and stabilized, and a viable Palestinian administration had emerged, the sources said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the discussions, which remain preliminary, there would be no fixed timeline for how long such a U.S.-led administration would last, which would depend on the situation on the ground, the five sources said.

The sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to discuss the talks publicly, compared the proposal to the Coalition Provisional Authority in Iraq that Washington established in 2003, shortly after the U.S.-led invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein.

The authority was perceived by many Iraqis as an occupying force and it transferred power to an interim Iraqi government in 2004 after failing to contain a growing insurgency.

Other countries would be invited to take part in the U.S.-led authority in Gaza, the sources said, without identifying which ones. They said the administration would draw on Palestinian technocrats but would exclude Islamist group Hamas and the Palestinian Authority, which holds limited authority in the occupied West Bank.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Islamist group Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007, sparked the current war when its militants stormed into southern Israeli communities on October 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and capturing another 251.

The sources said it remained unclear whether any agreement could be reached. Discussions had not progressed to the point of considering who might take on core roles, they said.

The sources did not specify which side had put forward the proposal nor provide further details of the talks.

In response to Reuters questions, a State Department spokesperson did not comment directly on whether there had been discussions with Israel about a U.S.-led provisional authority in Gaza, saying they could not speak to ongoing negotiations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We want peace, and the immediate release of the hostages," the spokesperson said, adding that: "The pillars of our approach remain resolute: stand with Israel, stand for peace."

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declined to comment.

In an April interview with Emirati-owned Sky News Arabia, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said he believed there would be a "transitional period" after the conflict in which an international board of trustees, including "moderate Arab countries", would oversee Gaza with Palestinians operating under their guidance.

"We're not looking to control the civil life of the people in Gaza. Our sole interest in the Gaza Strip is security," he said, without naming which countries he believed would be involved. The foreign ministry did not respond to a request for further comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ismail Al-Thawabta, director of the Hamas-run Gaza government media office, rejected the idea of an administration led by the United States or any foreign government, saying the Palestinian people of Gaza should choose their own rulers.

The Palestinian Authority did not respond to a request for comment.

RISKS

A U.S.-led provisional authority in Gaza would draw Washington deeper into the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and mark its biggest Middle East intervention since the Iraq invasion.

Such a move would carry significant risks of a backlash from both allies and adversaries in the Middle East, if Washington were perceived as an occupying power in Gaza, two of the sources said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The United Arab Emirates - which established diplomatic relations with Israel in 2020 - has proposed to the United States and Israel that an international coalition oversee Gaza's post-war governance. Abu Dhabi conditioned its involvement on the inclusion of the Western-backed Palestinian Authority and a credible path toward Palestinian statehood.

The UAE foreign ministry did not respond to questions about whether it would support a U.S.-led administration that did not include the PA.

Israel's leadership, including Netanyahu, firmly rejects any role in Gaza for the Palestinian Authority, which it accuses of being anti-Israeli. Netanyahu also opposes Palestinian sovereignty.

Netanyahu said on Monday that Israel would expand its attacks in Gaza and that more Gazans would be moved "for their own safety". Israel is still seeking to recover 59 hostages being held in the enclave. Its offensive has so far killed more than 52,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health ministry data.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some members of Netanyahu's right-coalition have called publicly for what they describe as the "voluntary" mass migration of Palestinians from Gaza and for the reconstruction of Jewish settlements inside the coastal enclave.

But behind closed doors, some Israeli officials have also been weighing proposals over the future of Gaza that sources say assumes that there won't be a mass exodus of Palestinians from Gaza, such as the U.S.-led provisional administration.

Among those include restricting reconstruction to designated security zones, dividing the territory and establishing permanent military bases, said four sources, who include foreign diplomats and former Israeli officials briefed on the proposals.

(Reporting by Alexander Cornwell, additional reporting by Daphne Psaledakis and Steve Holland in Washington; Editing by Daniel Flynn)
By Timour Azhari and Suleiman Al-Khalidi

BEIRUT/AMMAN (Reuters) - The United Arab Emirates has set up a backchannel for talks between Israel and Syria, three people familiar with the matter said, as Syria's new rulers seek regional help to manage an increasingly hostile relationship with their southern neighbour.

The indirect contacts, which have not been previously reported, are focused on security and intelligence matters and confidence-building between two states with no official relations, a person with direct knowledge of the matter, a Syrian security source and a regional intelligence official said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The first source described the effort, which began days after Syrian President Ahmed Sharaa visited the UAE on April 13, as currently focused on "technical matters," and said there was no limit to what may eventually be discussed.

Asked about Reuters' report on the UAE-mediated talks during a news conference on a visit to Paris, Sharaa responded: "There are indirect negotiations taking place via mediators to calm the situation."

It was his first public acknowledgement of such efforts.

"We talk to all states that are in communication with the Israeli side to pressure them to stop interfering in Syria's affairs and violating its airspace and striking some of its installations," he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Meanwhile Lana Nusseibeh, UAE Assistant Foreign Minister for Political Affairs and Foreign Minister's Envoy, told Reuters: "The claim that the UAE is mediating secret talks between Syria and Israel is categorically false. The UAE is not part of any such talks."

The senior Syrian security source told Reuters the UAE-based backchannel was limited strictly to security-related issues, focusing on several counterterrorism files.

The source said that purely military matters, particularly those concerning Israeli army activities in Syria, fell outside the scope of the current channel.

The intelligence source said UAE security officials, Syrian intelligence officials and former Israeli intelligence officials were involved in the mechanism, among others.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the situation.

Syria's presidency did not respond to a request for comment. The Israeli prime minister's office declined to comment.

The mediation effort preceded Israeli strikes in Syria last week, including one just 500 metres (yards) from the presidential palace in Damascus, and Reuters could not establish if the mechanism has been used since the strikes occurred.

Israel has framed the strikes as a message to Syria's new rulers in response to threats against Syria's Druze, a minority sect that is an offshoot of Islam with adherents in Syria, Lebanon and Israel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Informal mediation between Israel and Syria aimed at calming the situation has taken place in the last week via other channels, according to one of the sources and a regional diplomat. They declined to elaborate.

Syria's government has condemned Israel's strikes as escalatory and as foreign interference, and says the new government in Damascus is working to unify the country after 14 years of bloodletting.

The new rulers have also made repeated efforts to show they pose no threat to Israel, meeting representatives of the Jewish community in Damascus and abroad and detaining two senior members of Palestinian Islamic Jihad, which participated in the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack on Israel.

A letter sent by Syria's foreign ministry to the U.S. State Department last month, seen by Reuters, said "we will not allow Syria to become a source of threat to any party, including Israel."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

MINORITY FEARS

Israel has struck in Syria for years in a shadow campaign aimed at weakening Iran and its allies, including Lebanese Hezbollah, which grew their influence after entering the country's civil war on the side of former President Bashar al-Assad.

Israeli military operations have escalated since rebels ousted Assad in December, saying it will not tolerate an Islamist militant presence in southern Syria. Israel has bombed what it says are military targets across the country and Israeli ground forces have entered southwestern Syria.

Reuters reported in February that Israel has lobbied the U.S. to keep Syria decentralised and isolated, framing its approach around suspicion of Sharaa - who once headed a branch of al-Qaeda before renouncing ties to the group in 2016.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The UAE government also has concerns about the Islamist bent of Syria's new leaders, but Sharaa's meeting with President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan last month went very well, the sources said, helping to assuage some of Abu Dhabi's concerns.

The sources noted the meeting lasted several hours, making Sharaa late for a subsequent engagement.

The backchannel with Israel was established days later, the sources said.

Damascus sees the UAE's ties with Israel, established in a historic U.S.-brokered deal in 2020, as a key avenue to address issues with Israel, given the absence of direct relations between the two states.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Israel's latest strikes in Syria followed days of clashes between Sunni Muslim and Druze gunmen triggered by a voice recording of unclear origin purportedly insulting the Prophet Mohammed, leaving more than two dozen people dead.

Syria's government has since reached an agreement with Druze factions in the Druze heartland region of Suweida to hire local security forces from their ranks, in a move that has so far reduced tensions.

The fighting posed the latest challenge for Sharaa, who has repeatedly vowed to unite all of Syria's armed forces under one structure and govern the country, fractured by 14 years of civil war until Assad's overthrow.

But incidents of sectarian violence, notably the killing of hundreds of pro-Assad Alawites in March, have hardened fears among minority groups about the now-dominant Islamists and sparked condemnation from global powers.

(Reporting by Timour Azhari in Beirut and Suleiman al-Khalidi in Amman; additional reporting by Maha El Dahan in Dubai; Editing by William Maclean)
A Davidson County jury found former Tennessee Rep. Jeremy Durham guilty of DUI and felony reckless endangerment charges after he crashed his car and injured another driver during a night downtown in 2022.

The jury deliberated for about an hour to reach their verdict.

Durham was found guilty on five charges  two counts of DUI, reckless endangerment, resisting arrest and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia  and not guilty on a felony aggravated assault with a deadly weapon charge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The reckless endangerment charge, a Class E felony, carries a prison sentence of 1 to 6 years and a maximum fine of $3,000.

Durham and his attorney, Rob McKinney, declined to comment on the verdict.

Nashville police were called to 1st Avenue North and Broadway at about 11:15 a.m. on Oct. 22, 2022 after a rear-end crash. The driver of the front car testified that he suffered whiplash and had lasting neck and back pain from the crash.

At the scene, Durham appeared to be unsteady on his feet, slurred his speech and had dilated pupils, according to an arrest affidavit.

Officers detained Durham when he tried to walk away and resisted being handcuffed, police said. Over and over again, he declined a field sobriety and blood test. Police ultimately filed a warrant for Durham's blood.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During a search of Durham's car, police found a grinder with what they believed to be marijuana residue.

Durham was indicted on the six charges in October 2023.

Police footage captures Durham in hours after wreck

Durham's trial began May 5 with jury selection and wrapped up two days later after the former state representative took the stand in his own defense.

Jurors watched video footage from Nashville police Det. Chase Harriman's car as he drove Durham to Metro General Hospital for his blood draw.

As police were putting him in the back of the patrol car, Durham questioned the need for handcuffs.

"Do we even need the cuffs," Durham asked. "I'm a former state rep."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Durham continued to ramble, laughing at times and bobbing his head at others.

"Y'all probably think I had stuff to drink," Durham said in the video. "We'll see how it plays out. It's all about the blood."

MNPD Crime Lab technician Lisa Branch testified that Durham's blood alcohol content was at 0.136. The legal limit is 0.08.

In the video, Durham denied resisting arrest, but admitted he had a small amount of marijuana, according to the video footage.

"Glenn's not going to prosecute," Durham said referring to Davidson County District Attorney Glenn Funk. "It was very little marijuana. He's gonna dismiss that."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As of the days of the trial, Funk had not dismissed the charge.

Durham continued to try to ingratiate himself with Harriman and Lt. Paul Stein, who'd gone to get a warrant for his blood, the detective testified.

"By the very end, he said to Lt. Stein 'we should go get a beer sometime,'" Harriman testified.

Durham smirked and gave a small chuckle at Harriman's testimony.

Jeremy Durham's court history

Durham is no stranger to a court room.

He was linked to a federal case against Nashville social club owner Joshua Smith and state Sen. Brian Kelsey.

A 2021 indictment against Smith and Kelsey lists, but does not charge, an unnamed co-conspirator known as an attorney and "member of the Tennessee House of Representatives from in or around September 2016, when he was expelled by a vote of the House."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Durham was the only member of the legislature expelled in 2016.

The disgraced lawmaker was expelled from the Tennessee Legislature when an investigation by the Tennessean revealed he sent inappropriate text messages to several women. The Tennessee Attorney General's Office ultimately discovered 22 women, about whom Durham made lewd comments and gave inappropriate hugs. He also had sex with a 20-year-old "college student/ political worker" at his legislative office and home, according to the investigation.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Jury: TN Republican Jeremy Durham guilty of DUI, endangerment
Next month, a panel of experts will gather in Naperville for two days to help decide how city-owned land around the Fifth Avenue train station north of downtown should be developed.

The Naperville City Council received an overview of the upcoming expert panel, which will be hosted by the Urban Land Institute (ULI), at its meeting Tuesday night. Council members also endorsed a list of stakeholders  from local school districts to property owners  theyd like to see involved in the process.

The panel is scheduled meet June 10-11.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Efforts to chart a new path forward for the Fifth Avenue site  just over 14.5 acres of land owned or leased by the city  have been discussed on and off for more than a decade. In recent years the city worked on a redevelopment plan with Minnesota-based Ryan Cos., which got as far as presenting a baseline concept to the city in October 2019. That proposal, though, was rejected after facing resistance from residents.

The city planned to continue working on Ryans proposal until the COVID-19 pandemic stalled progress and the matter was placed on the back burner.

Last summer, Councilman Josh McBroom resurrected the issue. Later in the fall, the council opted to seek outside guidance from ULI to assist in deciding in what capacity, if any, it should proceed on pursuing new projects for the site.

ULI is a network of cross-disciplinary real estate and land use experts, according to the nonprofit, which has offices around the world, including in Chicago. Through the use of a technical assistance panel, communities can obtain comprehensive and strategic advice on a specific land use or development project.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Communities seek out panels on a rolling application basis. Naperville applied in November and in February was notified that its application had been selected, according to a city staff report.

As the panel approaches, ULI representatives Tuesday gave council members a rundown of what to expect.

The process will entail a two-day workshop, according to representatives. About 10 to 12 volunteer panelists  likely real estate industry experts from the Chicago area  will explore the matter, engage with stakeholders and ultimately provide recommendations for next steps. Panelists will not be from Naperville.

We take a holistic approach to the process, said Jon Talty, CEO of Chicago-based OKW Architects and a longtime ULI member who will be chairing the panel. We bring together a variety of professionals  (including) developers, architects, civil engineers, traffic consultants, planners and a variety of engineers. And together we come up with actionable solutions to challenging pieces of real estate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The first day will start with a city presentation followed by a walk-through of the Fifth Avenue site, Swasti Shah, director of community engagement for ULI Chicago, told the council. Panelists will then meet with 75 to 100 stakeholders in a series of group interviews, Shah said.

The stakeholders list endorsed Tuesday is wide-ranging. Among them will be elected officials; representatives of local partners from the Naperville Park District to the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce; members of a prior Fifth Avenue Steering Committee; Metra, BNSF and PACE; and owners of properties directly abutting the study area.

The full stakeholder list can be found at https://bit.ly/3YXfHMX.

On the second day, panelists will synthesize information into recommendations that aim to answer questions the city submitted when initially applying for assistance. Those include:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What is the most effective way to move forward with a redevelopment strategy for the nontransit uses on the site?

Other than new housing opportunities, what are the highest and best uses of the study area, or each sub portion of the study area?

How can new development on the site address Napervilles known housing gaps, including missing middle, attainable and affordable housing, while meeting private development interests?

What amenities and design features should be incorporated into the new development to maintain and enhance the neighborhoods unique character?

How can the study area be redeveloped to function as a transit-oriented development and what are the best practices for developing around transit centers?

Three to four weeks after the panels presentation, ULI will host a public presentation outlining its suggestions, Shah said. In early- to mid-fall, they will return to the city with a final report, she said.

That report is going to be a narrative, Talty said in a call Wednesday. Its going to have planning examples. Its going to probably have aspirational imagery. Its going to have technical data regarding some traffic issues or engineering issues.  Everybody is going to bring their own gifts to the table and contribute to a well-rounded summary of the two days.

Talty emphasized that ULIs input will be impartial.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We know what it takes from a financial perspective, from a legal perspective, from a planning perspective, he said. I think the city can benefit from the fact that were an outside agent helping them navigate complex problems.

tkenny@chicagotribune.com
DUPLIN COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT)  Jessica Thomas is a mom to three boys and spends her days in Kenansville.

Each birth came with its own set of challenges.

When youre in survival mode, the only thing that youre thinking about is just getting to the next day, Thomas said. What I had a lot of trouble with was postpartum OCD, which are intrusive thoughts. Theyre very scary if youve ever experienced them, you know exactly what Im talking about.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Postpartum OCD is just one type of perinatal mental health condition. About 15,000 North Carolina women will experience one every year and nearly 12,000 will go untreated, according to Mind the Gap North Carolina.

Other conditions include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, panic disorders, PTSD and postpartum psychosis. Mental health conditions were the leading cause of death in pregnancy-related deaths from 2018-2019 in the state.

During the birth of my third baby, I left the hospital with PTSD, Thomas said. I didnt sign up for a war. Im not in the military. Im a mom.

Lack of care to treat these issues affects the entire state and especially in rural areas where even though some counties like Duplin arent considered maternity care deserts, there are still gaps in education and few doctors.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Groups like Mind the Gap North Carolina and March for Dimes are advocating in Raleigh to get funding to train more providers in perinatal mental health.

Eighty counties in North Carolina have less than 50 percent workforce capacity and rural counties have an average of 33 percent.

Were looking at trying to, at least, get one trained provider in each county, Co-leader of Mind the Gap North Carolina Erin Crites said. Whether its access through the health department, that some of the health departments have embedded behavioral health, or if we have somebody thats already a therapist there that can start to see those patients in the community.

Theyre also advocating for expanding coverage under Medicaid and insurance providers along with work paid leave.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Moms exist on all party lines, Crites said. This is just a mom issue and how can we take care of our future.

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 WNCT.
By Leah Douglas and Tom Polansek

(Reuters) - Recent actions by President Donald Trump's administration, including staff cuts at the Food and Drug Administration, have raised questions among consumers about food safety in the United States.

Here is an explanation of how food safety inspection works in the U.S., and how Trump administration cuts to some health and safety programs are reshaping those efforts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

HOW DOES FOOD SAFETY WORK?

The FDA regulates the safety of 80% of the nation's food supply, ranging from baby formula to leafy greens and food additives. The U.S. Department of Agriculture regulates the rest, focusing on animal products like meat and eggs.

The safety of the U.S. food supply is largely ensured by the people who produce it and companies that process it, according to experts who spoke to Reuters. Meat companies must have USDA inspectors in slaughter plants, and food manufacturers also conduct inspections to check that their products are safe.

Federal inspectors at the FDA perform periodic checks of food facilities and are also responsible, with state regulators and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, for investigating outbreaks of foodborne illness.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

WHAT HAPPENS IF THERE IS A FOODBORNE ILLNESS OUTBREAK?

It can all start with a stomachache or other symptoms that signal something is off. An individual may tough out their illness at home, but if they visit a doctor or hospital, their medical providers may collect samples to assess whether they have been infected with a pathogen from food.

Food can be contaminated in several ways. Fresh lettuce grown in fields can come in contact with manure from nearby livestock. Undercooked hamburger meat can contain bacteria. Materials such as plastic or wood can contaminate food items in factories. And allergens can be missing from product labels.

State health agencies may notice several reports of illness on surveillance systems and launch an investigation. They may also involve the CDC, which can monitor whether other states are seeing cases of foodborne illness. The CDC can coordinate with affected states to help determine the origin of the outbreak.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Companies are rarely criminally charged for outbreaks, but the risk of reputational damage encourages them to maintain high standards, said Donald Schaffner, a food science professor at Rutgers University.

And companies running afoul may face fewer consequences. A Justice Department unit that handles criminal and civil enforcement of U.S. food and drug safety laws was disbanded as part of the Trump administration's cost-cutting campaign, according to people familiar with the matter.

Disbanding the DOJ's Consumer Protection Branch removes the legal teeth needed to hold such violators accountable, said Darin Detwiler, an associate teaching professor at Northeastern University who wrote a book about food safety.

"Without prosecutors who specialize in complex food and drug safety law, it becomes far less likely that companies will face meaningful consequences - even in cases involving death and deception," he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

CAN STATES HANDLE OUTBREAKS THEMSELVES?

The Trump administration is considering moving routine food safety oversight to state and local authorities, according to media reports.

That change would not necessarily mean that food would become less safe because processors shipping food to multiple states would still need to adhere to those states' food safety standards, Schaffner said.

But states vary in how much money and staff they assign to food safety epidemiology, so there could be a patchwork response to illness outbreaks, experts said.

Only federal agencies can establish and enforce nationwide food safety standards; coordinate interstate recalls and investigate multistate outbreaks; and operate surveillance networks that detect emerging threats across jurisdictions, said Detwiler.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The loss of experienced staff at FDA and USDA directly undermines our ability to prevent, detect and respond to foodborne threats," he said.

WHAT FOOD SAFETY CUTS HAS THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION MADE?

The Department of Health and Human Services, which contains the CDC and FDA, has lost about 20,000 employees due to Trump administration cuts.

Those cuts have caused the suspension of several FDA food safety assurance programs, including quality-control programs for Grade A milk and vegetables like spinach, and a program to improve the agency's testing of aged cheese and pet food for bird flu.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The FDA on May 6 rescinded the terminations of some staff working on food safety, according to a source familiar with the situation.

The USDA also cut two food safety advisory committees and withdrew a proposed rule aimed at reducing the risk of Salmonella contamination in poultry.

The full impacts from those cuts have yet to be seen, experts said.

"It's not like the wheels have fallen off the bus, but all the nuts are off and the bus is going downhill," Schaffner said.

IS MY MILK SAFE TO DRINK AND FOOD OK TO EAT?

There has been no indication that food safety standards for milk have fallen as a result of Trump administration cuts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The milk sector has sophisticated state-level inspection and regulation that maintains high standards, said Nicole Martin, assistant research professor and director of the Milk Quality Improvement Program at Cornell University.

But those extra safeguards do not exist for every food item, and federal regulators are key for providing national assurance of food quality, Martin said.

"I worry about less oversight at the FDA level for food safety issues in general," Martin said.

In Utah, FDA staff are no longer traveling to the state to audit local inspectors who ensure that food manufacturing facilities are clean and properly training employees, said Travis Waller, a division director for the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The FDA did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

"It definitely slows us down in our progress to meet FDA standards for conducting food facility inspections," Waller said.

(Reporting by Leah Douglas in Washington and Tom Polansek in Chicago; Editing by Matthew Lewis)
Last week, the White House shared a ghastly AI-generated image of Donald Trump as the pope on X, where it somehow garnered over 200k likes.

This nonsense came just a week and a half after the death of Pope Francis, following several jokes where Trump proposed himself as a replacement. The backlash to the image has been wide-reaching, with archbishops, cardinals, and priests calling the stunt "not funny" or appropriate.

Meanwhile, Trump simultaneously insists that people "can't take a joke" and "the Catholics loved it."

Reporter: Some Catholics are not happy about the image of you looking like the PopeTrump: You mean they cant take a joke? You mean the fake news. The Catholics loved it. I had nothing to do with it. Maybe it was AI. My wife thought it was cute. Ha haReporter: It was put out pic.twitter.com/eo80ACv6OQ  Acyn (@Acyn) May 5, 2025

Fox News / Twitter: @Acyn

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Well! Reddit user u/2a_lib posed the question, "Catholics of Reddit, how do you feel about the White House posting an AI image of Trump as pope?" Here's what people had to say:

1."As a Catholic who doesnt practice anymore, and almost to the point that I dont believe in any of it anymore, this offends me greatly. Despite my lack of faith, at the end of the day, I still believe in the core tenet of Christianity, which is: Love your neighbor. And this piece of shit is as far from that as you can get."

u/---rocks---

2."Devout Catholic here who has been a lifelong Republican. Its extremely distasteful and blasphemous."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

u/RunTheDamnBalll

3."Former Catholic here. IDK how to explain it other than when you grew up with it, its ingrained in you. You can walk into any church and know EXACTLY what to do. My family is in the church, so I still have to go occasionally and its like coming home...and then I remember I disagree with local bishops haha. So yeah, seeing Trump do all this shit has been horrifying. Youd think I would think its funny since Im not Catholic anymore. But nope, its like getting gutted."

u/Lilsammywinchester13

Tasos Katopodis / Getty Images

Related: "My Generation Will Never Forgive You": 25 Of The Very Best And Very True Political Tweets From The Last Week

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

4."This is, quite literally, the behavior that the Bible talks about being present in the antichrist. This is also the type of behavior that Jesus himself took a bullwhip to the temple over, which eventually got him crucified. People who claim to be Christians/Catholics but are blindly loyal to this dumpster fire do not follow the teachings of Christ. It is beyond me how these people cannot see the very things that their holy book warns them about."

u/Rough-History-707

5."There's a level of 'this dude is a bad dude' that can be crossed, and no new information changes that. Trump crossed that threshold years ago. Now, it's all just evidence he's not actually trying to be better. My faith has taught me not to believe there's no redeeming some people, but I also believe you need to want to be redeemed."

u/chaosunleashed

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

6."I'm a liberal, Catholic physician. Love my neighbors of all faiths and lack thereof. I cried in 2016 when he was elected because I was fearful of him and his policies, and I have patients who are crying in my clinic about whether they will be safe or deported somewhere they never lived. Im not surprised by his overwhelming narcissism given his history, but the fact that any Christian in general can support him with his flagrant disregard of respect, not to mention his absolute failure to embody values that Jesus promulgates, demonstrates a failure of many evangelicals morality and the US educational system."

u/Artistic-Healer

Tetra Images / Getty Images/Tetra images RF

7."Both of my parents are the most Catholic people I know. I assume theyll both feign outrage and then vote for him a fourth time."

u/jinxes_are_pretend

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Related: Senator Lindsey Graham's Bizarre Trump Pope Comments Are Going Viral

8."Non-Catholic married into a Catholic family. Beyond being offensive and disrespectful, its just stupid. Hes a world leader. This is the White House. Why the fuck are they wasting time and energy both creating and putting out this silly nonsense? Total amateur hour; professionals dont sink this low for stupid, offensive, attention getting nonsense. They should all be embarrassed, but then, its pretty on brand. Just constant clueless, tone-deaf stupidity."

u/Fun-Apricot-804

9."'In essence, the false prophet is a powerful figure of deception, who uses religious-like appearances and miracles to lead people into worshiping the Antichrist and receiving its mark, ultimately leading them to eternal damnation.' This mark was generally worn on the forehead...reminds you of a MAGA hat, doesn't it?"

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

u/Native_Kurt_Cobain

Busa Photography / Getty Images

10."Catholic here. Separation of church and state MUST be maintained! Anyone who suggests Catholicism should rule American law is an extremist cult follower."

u/CabinetSpider21

11."With all the lying, threatening, and boasting coming out of the White House on a daily basis, this enrages me rather mildly to be honest. I wish to God this was the worst nonsense Trump put out there."

u/Karash770

12."Cradle Catholic, liberal blue sheep of the family. Havent practiced in years but admired Pope Francis a lot. Its ridiculous. It should piss off my very conservative family. But theyll find a way to hand-wave it like everything else since 2015, them being on the Trump train."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

u/TilTheDaybreak

Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images

13."It makes me ill. I was raised Catholic, and that image is not funny to me at all. Being a pope means caring for the poor and ill. It means speaking out when people are attacked."

u/LNSU78

14."I've seen two responses: 1) The ones that dislike Trump find it insulting. 2) The ones that are Trumpers blow it off as 'it's just a joke.' The latter exhausts me because it's always a 'joke' until it isn't (see also: tariffs, mass deportations, gutting of the federal government, defunding critical social programs, etc.)."

u/TheVoicesOfBrian

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

15.And finally, "First of all, he's not Catholic, so it would be impossible. True Catholics (I'm a bad Catholic but have been attending mass for 40 years) would reject everything Trump is about, and they'd be able to see through his lies. We're supposed to be anti-violence, pro-charity, do unto others as you would have them do unto you. We're supposed to embrace the less fortunate and welcome them. Treat visitors better than you treat yourself. Anyone who thinks he would be a good candidate for pope, or even a good Christian, is a hypocrite."

"I've begun pushing them out of my life. If you weren't paying attention to the 10 Commandments, you're supposed to honor God above all things. It's the first one. They worship one thing: money. If you follow the Catholic faith, you know that all those who idolize Trump are headed to one place."

u/bbenji69996

Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images

If you're Christian/Catholic, what do you think about Donald Trump? Do you support him? Do you believe he follows the teachings of Christ? Share your thoughts in the comments or in the anonymous form below.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Note: Some responses have been edited for length and/or clarity.

Also in In the News: "I Immediately Hit The Floor And Turned Off The Light": People Are Sharing The Most Disturbing Text Messages They've Ever Received

Also in In the News: Donald Trump Just Shared A Very Ominous Post, And People Are Calling It "One Of The Worst Statements Ever Made By A Sitting US President"

Also in In the News: People's Jaws Dropped When AOC Shared Her Very Blunt Reason For Not Attending Donald Trump's Inauguration
A deadly midair collision in January between a military helicopter and a commercial airliner, several additional crashes and technical problems that resulted in mass cancellations at New Jersey's biggest airport have prompted officials to pledge a fix for the nations outdated air traffic control system and vow to hire more controllers.

Doing so, they say, would help ensure safety and prevent the kind of problems that have plagued the Newark, New Jersey, airport since its radar system briefly failed last week.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy plans to unveil a multi-billion-dollar plan to overhaul the nations air traffic control system Thursday, while the Federal Aviation Administration works to quickly solve technology and staffing problems in Newark and avoid similar crisis elsewhere.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Amid turmoil, one thing seems clear: An aging system struggles to handle the nations more than 45,000 daily flights.

Its uncertain whether Duffys plan that President Donald Trump supports will get the necessary congressional funding to be more effective than previous reform efforts during the last three decades. But Duffy says it's necessary. Already more than $14 billion has been invested in upgrades since 2003 but none have dramatically changed how the system works.

We are on it. We are going to fix it. We are going to build a brand new system for all of you and your families and the American people, Duffy said.

But details are scant. It's unclear whether the plan will involve privatizing the air traffic control system as Trump backed in his first term. Duffy has not highlighted that possibility. Thursday's announcement is expected to attract dozens of unions, which would likely oppose privatization, along with trade groups, industry representatives and family members of victims of the January crash.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

History of problems

For years, the system has operated well enough to be largely neglected by every administration, said University of Illinois professor Sheldon Jacobson, who has studied risks in aviation. But well enough isnt good enough when it comes to air travel because peoples lives are at risk.

Jacobson is skeptical Duffy's proposal will succeed. But there could be renewed support following the collision between an American Airlines jet and an Army helicopter over Washington D.C. in January, and a plane that flipped and caught fire in Toronto.

The weaknesses of the nation's air traffic control system have for years been highlighted in reports and hearings. Most recently, a Government Accountability Office review released in March declared that 51 of the FAA's 138 systems were considered unsustainable and another 54 were potentially unsustainable. A 2023 outage in FAA's Notice to Airmen system forced the grounding of every flight nationwide for more than two hours.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Were dealing with an outmoded system and we have an outdated infrastructure, said former Continental Airlines CEO Frank Lorenzo, who helped establish a major hub in Newark that United Airlines still maintains years after acquiring Continental. We havent really given it the attention that it requires.

Outdated technology

The president of National Air Traffic Controllers Association told Congress that the majority of the FAA's telecommunications infrastructure at more than 4,600 sites relies at least in part on aging copper wires, instead of more reliable fiber optic lines that can handle more data. Unexpected outages related to those lines routinely cause ground stops at airports and appear to have led to the problems in Newark.

The radar system air traffic controllers in Philadelphia use to direct planes in and out of the Newark airport went offline for at least 30 seconds on April 28. That facility relies on radar data sent over lines from New York that may have failed, some of which are old copper phone lines. The FAA relies on those lines because Newark controllers were moved from New York to Philadelphia last summer to address staffing issues.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The FAA said Wednesday it plans to replace any old copper wires with fiber optics and add three new data lines between New York and Philadelphia. The agency is also working to get additional controllers trained and certified.

It wasnt immediately clear how long either step will take, but Duffy has said he hopes the situation in Newark will improve by summer, which is when an ongoing runway construction project is scheduled for completion. Several controllers remain on extended trauma leave after the radar outage, which worsened staff shortages in Philadelphia.

In response, the FAA has slowed traffic in and out of Newark to ensure flights can be handled safely, leading to cancellations. Duffy also said FAA will meet with all airlines to determine how many flights the airport can handle. On Wednesday, Newark led the nation with 42 canceled departures and 46 canceled arrivals, according to FlightAware.com. Thats even after United cut 35 daily flights at the airport starting last weekend.

Some upgrades have been completed

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The FAA has made incremental improvements as part of its Nextgen program that was established in 2003. Advancements include development of the ADS-B system that provides more precise aircraft locations to controllers and other planes. That system has been a focal point of the investigation of the January crash because the Black Hawk helicopter was not using it to broadcast its location at the time of the collision.

Duffy has also tried to supercharge air traffic controller hiring by shortening the time it takes to get into the academy and improving student success rates. The FAA is also offering bonuses to experienced controllers to discourage early retirement.

A major challenge to upgrading the aviation infrastructure is that the FAA must keep the current system operating while developing a new system  and then find a way to seamlessly switch over. That's partly why the agency has pursued more gradual improvements in the past.

"The problem has existed for decades. Its not because of neglect, but because its a hard problem to solve," said Jeff Guzetti, who is a former accident investigator who also worked in the Transportation Department's Inspector General's office for several years that was focused on aviation. And it requires money and good management. And the FAA has been has had shortages of both money and in some cases good management for years.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced Wednesday its taking immediate steps to improve operations at Newark Liberty International Airport, including accelerating technological updates and increasing air traffic control staffing.

The FAA has slowed arrivals and departures at Newark as a result of runway construction and staffing and technology issues at Philadelphia TRACON, which processes radar data transmitted from the New York-based STARS system to guide aircraft in and out of Newark.

Many of the steps announced address the reliability of the connection between the two cities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The FAA announced it would add three new high-bandwidth telecommunications connections between the Philadelphia TRACON and the New York-based STARS  to improve speed, reliability and redundancy  and would replace the copper telecommunications connections with updated fiberoptic technology for greater bandwidth and speed.

The FAA also announced it would establish a STARS hub at the Philadelphia TRACON so the latter does not depend on a telecommunications feed from the New York STARS hub.

The announced improvements come after Newark air traffic controller screens went dark for 30 seconds last week, leading to a complete loss of communication between the controllers and the planes coming into the airport.

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association, the union representing controllers, said multiple workers are taking leave for trauma they endured, leading to significant delays at the airport.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The FAA also announced Wednesday it would address the staffing shortages. There are 22 fully certified controllers at the Philadelphia TRACON, which handles Newark traffic, and 21 controllers and supervisors in training. Ten of those 21 trainees are receiving on-the-job training, according to the FAA, and all 10 are certified on at least one position.

We have a healthy pipeline with training classes filled through July 2026, the FAA said.

When staffing or equipment issues occur, the FAA will ensure safety by slowing the rate of arrivals into the airport. We will continue to provide updates to the public as we work through these issues, it added.

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 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is slowing arrivals and departures at Newark Liberty International Airport.

The agency cited runway construction, technical issues, and staffing shortages at air traffic control centers.

Certain airlines are waiving change fees or allowing passengers to book flights out of nearby airports.







Travelers may want to pack extra patience when flying in or out of Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).



For several days, travelers have experienced hours-long delays and other hardships as FAA staffing levels, runway construction, and technical issues have thrown a serious wrench into operations.



The FAA has been slowing arrivals and departures at Newark Liberty International Airport due to runway construction at Newark and staffing and technology issues at Philadelphia TRACON, which guides aircraft in and out of the airport, an FAA spokesperson said in a press release obtained by Travel + Leisure.



While the slowdown will affect current arrivals and departures, the FAA and U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy directed agencies and personnel to deploy backup systems and increase controller staffing (among other steps) to fix the ongoing travel troubles.



The FAA is taking immediate steps to improve the reliability of operations at Newark Liberty International Airport, the FAA said in a news release. This includes accelerating technological and logistical improvements and increasing air traffic controller staffing.



For passengers with upcoming trips, airlines are providing waivers and forgoing change fees. For example, United Airlines is waiving change fees and fare differences for flights out of Newark between May 6 and May 17. Passengers are also advised to subscribe to flight notifications and monitor flight statuses before arriving at the airport. United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby recently released a statement about the conditions at Newark.



These challenges are not new to Newark. United has been urging the U.S. government for *years* to use its authority to effectively limit the number of flights to what the airport can realistically handle, Kirby said in a letter posted on May 2. Past failure to make those changes had led to the circumstances that United and, most importantly, our customers now face.



United Airlines' flight waiver option also allows passengers to book at nearby airports such as LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in New York City and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)something you may want to consider doing if you can't wait around.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kirby issued a statement on May 7 addressing safety. "First and most importantly, all the flights in and out of EWR are absolutely safe. When there are FAA issuestechnology outages, staffing shortages, etc.the FAA requires all airlines to slow down aircraft and/or cancel flights to maintain the highest levels of safety," wrote Kirby. "We do our part to maintain safety as well. As you all know, our pilots have thousands of hours of flight experience and supplement that with regular simulator training  we also have procedures that our pilots follow to re-establish communication if controllers lose radio contact to navigate the airplane safely to its destination. In short, neither the FAA nor United pilots will ever compromise on safety."



Read the original article on Travel & Leisure
MILAN, Italy, May 7. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is set to find the best ways to reduce the cost of green transformation, Yingming Yang, ADB Vice-President for South, Central and West Asia, said during the closing session of the 58th ADB Annual Meeting, Trends special correspondent reports from Milan.

I feel the demand for regional connectivity has become stronger. We will strive to meet the aspirations for green and digital regional cooperation. We are going to mainstream digital technology into regional connectivity, like promoting smart transport and smart energy connectivity.

We will continue to strengthen our efforts in leveraging digital technology for trade facilitation and for creating more opportunities in trading in digital services. Because digital trade will become the new engine of global growth. We are going to find the best ways to reduce the cost of green transformation and meanwhile promote a balanced delivery of the climate and development objectives, he said.

Yang noted that ADB is going to support some major regional projects of connectivity, so that smaller economies can transform their abundant hydro resources into national economic growth and job creation.
It started with an email from my literary agent.

You mightve heard about LibGen and books being used to train AI, she wrote. A search of the database shows that Poe for Your Problems is on the list.

I had seen the headline, back in March, in The Atlantic: Meta (META) pirated millions of books to train its AI, it screamed. But to my shame, I hadnt actually read the piece. I had been too busy writing for Quartz (as now) and chasing my four-year-old around the house. Life goes on, even when someone steals your intellectual property.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Yet there it was. The story detailed how Meta employees had downloaded tens of gigabytes of pirated books from LibGen, a well-known shadow library that hosts roughly eight million titles. They used these files to help train LLaMA 3, the companys most advanced language model.

Internal discussions, unsealed earlier this year as part of an ongoing lawsuit, show that Metas engineers explicitly debated the legal risks and chose to proceed anyway, looking to save both time and money. The documents further suggest that top leadership signed off on the maneuver. Eventually, the team at Meta got permission from MZ  an apparent reference to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg  to download and use the data set, The Atlantic reported.

In response, a group of authors including Sarah Silverman have filed a class action lawsuit, now winding its way through the legal system.

Still, when my agents email came, my first reaction wasnt outrage

Instead, I was relieved. My little book had been deemed important enough to steal! Thank goodness. The greater shame wouldve been not being pirated, considering the scale of the theft. I turned to a friend who happened to be standing nearby and said, Its just nice to be included.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If that seems like a perverse reaction, well, it conveys how humbling it can be to achieve your lifelong author dreams. Many people dream of publishing a book someday  I had since I was eight years old  but becoming an author is a lesson in humility, at least in my experience. You show up at a bookstore to give a reading to five people, two of whom are your dads cousins. You do podcast interviews in which the host greets you with, So I havent had time to read your book can you remind me what its about and who you are? Like I said: humbling.

But the relief quickly curdled as I remembered what it had been like to sell the book in the first place. Nonfiction is sold on proposal  which means you dont write the book, you write a 40-page business plan for the book. I spent years on mine, rewriting it three separate times. I got upwards of two dozen rejections before it finally went to auction and found a home with a Hachette subsidiary in 2019.

After that, it took another year to write the actual book. When it came out in 2021, I spent thousands of hours promoting it.

Technically speaking, I was paid

My advance was $20,000  not nothing. But that was before taxes and my agents 15% cut. I once calculated that Id earned less than the federal minimum wage for writing the book. Since it earned out in 2023 (meaning the publisher fully made back its costs), Ive received another $10,000 in royalties. Those checks are always welcome, but theyre also pre-tax couch change compared to the time, energy, and ambition that went into the work.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its hard to explain just how difficult it is to land a publishing deal, especially with one of the Big Four. Unless youre an Obama or a Kardashian, its nearly impossible. Publishing is a perpetually precarious industry, surviving year to year on breakout hits like Atomic Habits or It Ends With Us. Even the largest publishers operate on net margins of about 6%. That doesnt leave much room for risk. So theyre understandably reluctant to bet on an unproven author with an odd idea.

I got around the issue of not being famous myself by writing about someone who was: my literary hero, Edgar Allan Poe. But that didnt make things easy. Selling a self-help book based on the life of historys most miserable writer was, perhaps unsurprisingly, an uphill battle.

And while my genre  irreverent self-help, sometimes called anti-self-help  is relatively common now, it wasnt when I was knocking on doors, metaphorical hat in hand. Putting together a convincing business case was hard enough. Writing the actual book  55,000 words of deeply researched, counterintuitive argument  was harder still.

To coin ones brain into silver, at the nod of a master, is to my thinking, the hardest task in the world, Poe once wrote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its no less true when youre the master, too.

Illustration: Ezra Acayan (Getty Images)

Meta could have bought my book. It chose to steal it

Today, Amazon sells my book for $12.99. My cut of that is $2.25. And thats too steep a price tag for Meta? A company worth $1.5 trillion, helmed by a founder with a $200 billion net worth? Mark Zuckerberg owns about 13% of Meta stock. He couldve paid me $2.25  the amount I earn per sale  almost 89 billion times. Or he couldve just bought a single copy, which wouldve cost him 0.0000011% of his wealth.

Assuming a $20 sticker price on each of the 7.5 million pirated books, actually paying for all of them wouldve cost about $150 million  not even one-tenth of one percent of Zuckerbergs fortune.

Me? I wouldve come out $2.25 better. I couldve bought a Snickers, depending on the gas station. Surely the worlds third-richest man could swing that.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you want to understand the artists dilemma in the AI age, its this: Do something singular, something that takes years of obsessive creative labor  then watch it get stolen by someone for whom $150 million is a rounding error.

In that light, its not just theft. Its bullying. Exploitation. Looting on a grand scale. The stuff of Upton Sinclair. Only we dont have robber barons anymore. We have pirate captains. Bluebeards of the human heart. And what are we supposed to fight them with? Carefully worded emails? Thats like bringing a spork to a nuclear war.

Some authors think publishers should be the ones leading the charge.

I checked one of the sites, the novelist Domenica Ruta told me, and yes, both my former books were used to train AI. Im furious and feel utterly powerless about what to do. My take is that publishers  who absolutely have the resources  need to be the frontline defenders against this. They need to protect their authors and our work. As individuals we have little power. A Big Four publisher has a lot more influence.

Meta has defended its actions as fair use. But nothing could be less fair

When Facebook came to power and popularity circa 2010, we at least understood the bargain: In exchange for our data, we got to post above-average-cute photos of ourselves, and learn our relatives reprehensible political views. The calculation has shifted since, with Meta stealing something much more intimate, deeply personal, and hard-won than data.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If Id plagiarized someones book, Id be in trouble. Id go to court, face consequences, quite likely be publicly shamed. Thats not whats happening to Zuckerberg. Instead, he hangs out at the White House.

If you walked into Barnes & Noble and stole a $13 book, youd get the police called on you. But steal 7.5 million, and youll make billions. Its an object lesson in contemporary law enforcement: the bigger the crime, the more likely you are to get away with it. By the same token, shoplift some disposable razors and youre a menace, a criminal. Steal 7.5 million books and youre a visionary. Thats the math now. People love to obsess about thefts of toothpaste and Tide Pods at CVS (CVS) in San Francisco, but plunder on an epic scale just slightly further south and youll not only walk away untouched, youll emerge vastly richer.

Its hard to think this wasnt Metas whole calculus to begin with. Gamble big, make billions, and let the lawsuits drag on. A lawyer friend of mine put it plainly: The copyright cases are about to enter discovery in both New York and California, and Meta is likely to lose. But by then, the damage will be done. As they said, No one loves to read more than lawyers and judges.

In the meantime, the industry is already eyeing a workaround by lobbying the executive branch directly.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Heres the part I really hate to say: I dont think they can be stopped either, whatever the class action lawsuit does. Facebook has faced down governments. Its currently facing down the FTC and the European Union. And beyond Facebook, vast as it is, theres the whole AI wave were all riding, if unequally. Companies like Meta, Amazon (AMZN) and Microsoft (MSFT) are likely to reap long-term trillions by creating AI tools and programs. Ive covered the stock market for more than a decade and Ive never seen economic logic so relentless. Meanwhile, artists and white-collar workers are losing their livelihoods on top of the knowledge and ingenuity thats already been stolen from them.

To coin ones brain into silver  and watch it be scraped by AI  is enough to make you question the point of doing it in the first place.

Lest I seem knee-jerk anti-capitalist, I should add that I come at all this as an author and a shareholder. Checking my Etrade (MS) just now, I see I own about $31,000 in Meta stock. Thats in a regular, non-retirement brokerage account and doesnt include shares I own indirectly through index and mutual funds. I started buying the stock circa the IPO because Ive long recognized the wealth-creation dynamics of our era: Hard work may or may not pay off, but invest in companies like Meta and you can ride along for the extra-legal wealth theyre likely to create. Its the surer thing.

So I dont begrudge Meta its $16.4 billion quarterly profit, not necessarily. But as a shareholder, I dont want it earned through theft.

And as a writer, I feel the same way.

You want so badly to enter the cultural DNA. But if it means you get erased, robbed, exploited?

Not so much.

For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
By Krishna N. Das and Gibran Naiyyar Peshimam

NEW DELHI/ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - India said on Wednesday it hit nine sites in Pakistan "from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed", following last month's deadly attack in Kashmir.

The nuclear-armed neighbours have fought two wars since independence from colonial ruler Britain in 1947 over the mainly Muslim region that both rule in part, while claiming in full.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

New Delhi blamed last month's attack in a scenic Himalayan meadow on a group linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, an Islamist militant outfit based in Pakistan.

Pakistan, which denies any involvement in the Kashmir attack, said the Indian strikes killed 26 civilians and its forces downed five Indian fighter jets.

It vowed to respond "to this aggression at a time, place, and means of our own choice".

India said seven of its targets were used by Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, both Islamist groups designated "terrorist" organisations by the U.N. Security Council.

For decades Hindu-majority India has accused Pakistan of supporting Islamist militants in attacks on Indian interests, especially in Kashmir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistan denies such support and in turn accuses India of supporting separatist rebels in Pakistan, which New Delhi denies.

LASHKAR-E-TAIBA

Lashkar-e-Taiba, or the "army of the pure", is based in Pakistan's most populous province of Punjab and has long focused on fighting Indian rule in Kashmir.

The U.N. Security Council says it has conducted "numerous terrorist operations" against military and civilian targets since 1993, including November 2008 attacks in India's commercial capital of Mumbai that killed 166.

Hafiz Saeed, who founded LeT around 1990, has denied any role in the attack.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The United Nations says LeT has also been implicated in attacks on Mumbai commuter trains in July 2006 and a December 2001 attack on India's parliament.

Muridke, just outside Punjab's capital of Lahore, is believed to be home to the sprawling 200-acre (81-hectare)headquarters of organisations affiliated with LeT.

India says it struck Muridke's Markaz Taiba, a site about 25 km (16 miles) from the border, where the Mumbai attackers had been trained. The term Markaz means headquarters.

Pakistan says the group has been banned and neutralised. Arrested in 2019, Saeed was convicted of numerous terrorism financing charges and is serving a 31-year jail term.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Critics say the group, rebranded in the guise of a charity, maintains a strong network in the region.

JAISH-E-MOHAMMAD

Also based in Punjab is Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), or Army of the Prophet Mohammad, founded by Masood Azhar on his release from prison in India in 1999.

The deal was an exchange for 155 hostages held on an Indian Airlines flight hijacked to Afghanistan's southern city of Kandahar, the U.N. Security Council has said.

Pakistan banned the group in 2002 after it, along with LeT, was blamed for the 2001 attack on India's parliament.

The group had links with al Qaeda, founded by Osama bin Laden, and the Taliban, the U.N. Security Council has said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

JeM is believed to be based in Pakistan's central city of Bahawalpur, also in Punjab.

It has claimed responsibility for numerous suicide bombings in Kashmir, where India has battled an armed insurgency since the late 1980s, though violence has abated in recent years.

India said it attacked Bahawalpur's Markaz Subhan Allah, which it called JeM's headquarters, located about 100 km (62 miles) from the border.

Despite Pakistan's 2002 ban on JeM, U.S. and Indian authorities say it still operates openly there.

Azhar has disappeared from the public eye except for sporadic reports of his presence close to the city, where he runs a religious institution.

(Reporting by Krishna N. Das in New Delhi and Gibran Naiyyar Peshimam in Islambad; Additional reporting by Sarita Chaganti Singh and Shivam Patel in New Delhi; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)
NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India struck nine "terrorist camps" in Pakistan on Wednesday that it accused of serving as indoctrination centres, training areas, and launchpads, two weeks after an attack in Indian Kashmir that the south Asian nation linked to its neighbour.

As fears mount that military conflict between the nuclear-armed rivals could escalate further, Pakistan has said six locations were hit in the strikes and none were militant camps.

Here is a look at the locations India "destroyed".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

MARKAZ TAIBA CAMP

India says the camp, 25 km (16 miles) from the de-facto border, was the headquarters of militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), which has been linked to last month's attack.

Ajmal Kasab, the sole perpetrator of the 2008 attack on Mumbai to be captured alive, was also trained at the facility. More than 160 people were killed in the attack on India's financial capital.

MARKAZ SUBHAN CAMP

The target deepest in Pakistan, about 100 km (62 miles) from the border, this camp was the headquarters of Islamist group Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and was used for recruiting, training, and indoctrination, India says.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

MEHMOONA JOYA CAMP

India says attacks planned and executed from this camp, a training facility of militant group Hijbul Mujahideen 12 km (7 miles) from the border, include a 2016 attack on an Indian air base that killed seven.

GULPUR CAMP

This camp was a base for LeT located 30 km (19 miles) from the border, India says, adding that a June attack targeting pilgrims in Kashmir's Poonch region, which killed nine, was among those executed by "terrorists" trained at the facility.

Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi, the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai attack, also frequented the camp for "indoctrination and motivational speeches".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

SARJAL CAMP

India says the perpetrators of an attack in March that killed four police personnel in India's Jammu and Kashmir were trained and launched from the camp, 6 km (4 miles) inside Pakistan.

ABBAS CAMP

This camp, located 13 km (8 miles) from the border, was the "nerve centre" for training LeT suicide bombers, India says.

SYEDNA BELAL CAMP

India says this camp, a staging area for JeM, was used to provide weapons' and explosives' training, and survival techniques for "terrorist activities" in Indian Kashmir.

SAWAI NALA CAMP

Located about 30 km (19 miles) from the de-facto border, the camp was a key training facility for LeT, India says.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

BARNALA CAMP

India says this facility was used to train terrorists in weapon handling, improvised explosive device making, and jungle survival techniques.

(This story has been refiled to clarify India-listed targets in the headline)

(Compiled by Sakshi Dayal; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)
PIERRE, S.D. (KELO)  Several hundred people gathered Wednesday for the 2025 South Dakota Law Enforcement Officers Memorial ceremony.

Gov. Larry Rhoden placed a wreath and Rapid City Police Chief Don Hedrick spoke in tribute to the fallen.

Moody County Chief Deputy Sheriff Kenneth Prorok was killed when he was struck by a driver during a high-speed chase on February 2, 2024.

Parents roundtable: Kids and cell phones

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chief Hedrick recalled how the community came together after three of Rapid Citys officers were shot in 2011. Officers Ryan McCandless and Nick Armstrong died.

We are all defined by our response to hard times, Hedrick said.

Dozens of officers gathered beforehand at state governments George S. Mickelson Criminal Justice Center and then drove in a procession to the memorial ceremony at Capitol Lake.

A service followed at Lutheran Memorial Church.

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.
The widow of a deputy killed in the line of duty almost 40 years ago joined law enforcement officers Wednesday to remember and honor fallen officers.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

As reported on News Center 7 at 6:00, dozens of law enforcement officers gathered in Troy Wednesday afternoon to celebrate the lives of fallen officers at the Miami County Law Enforcement Memorial Day ceremony.

TRENDING STORIES:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Family members came to leave flowers at the fallen officers statue.

Some families have been doing that for decades.

Tammie Elliott-Gehle is the widow of Miami County Sheriffs Office Sgt. Robert Elliott, who was killed by a prisoner in 1987. They had been married for six and a half years and shared three young children when he passed.

Everyone called him Bobby. All his family and friends did, Elliott-Gehle said.

Elliott-Gehle said her late husband was a caring officer and even the prisoners thought so.

I had gotten a letter from the prisoners; in jail theyre called trustees. And these guys wrote me a letter saying, Please dont compare us to the guy that killed Bobby. Because he was the nicest guy, we liked him a lot. He treated us like human beings, which isnt what everyone did, Elliott-Gehle said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The memorial keeps the fallen heroes spirits alive, but it also serves as a reminder to young officers just how much they have at stake when they put on their uniform each day.

A lot of the young guys coming up, have never experienced a line of duty death. So, this is a way to show them what is happening, Elliott-Gehle said.

The fallen heroes honored at Wednesdays ceremony left a lasting impact on their loved ones. Elliott-Gehle said her husband greatly inspired their son.

From the time he was three and a half years old, even before that, he said he wanted to be a deputy sheriff just like dad, Elliott-Gehle said.

[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
The mother of slain U.S. airman Roger Fortson is demanding justice from those she deems responsible for gunning down her 23-year-old son inside his apartment last year through a lawsuit filed Tuesday alleging excessive force, wrongful death, municipal liability and other wrongdoings.

Chantimekki Meka Fortson, with civil rights attorney Ben Crump, has sued the Okaloosa County Sheriffs Office, Deputy Eddie Duran, the Elan Apartments where the Black airman lived and a leasing agent identified as Jane Doe.

Mr. Fortson, who was lawfully in possession of a legally owned firearm and posed no threat, was killed as a result of a cascade of negligent, reckless and unconstitutional actions by both law enforcement and the apartment complex where he resided, the suit read.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Duran is the since-fired and criminally charged deputy who is alleged to have fatally shot Fortson. In August, he was charged with manslaughter with a firearm, a first-degree felony punishable by up to 30 years in prison. His sheriffs office admonished his actions for an unnecessary use of force.

READ MORE: Florida deputy fired after investigation into his killing of a Black U.S. airman

Fortson was killed May 3 in his off-base Fort Walton Beach apartment, which is located between Pensacola and Panama City. He served as an AC-130J Ghostrider gunner with the 1st Special Operations Wing at Hurlburt Field.

That afternoon, while alone in his apartment and on a FaceTime call with his girlfriend, a leasing agent at Elan Apartments called the Okaloosa Sheriffs Office, reporting a possible domestic disturbance, the lawsuit said. Crump and Chantimekki claim the agents claim was unverified and based on secondhand information.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Based on that information, Duran was sent to his apartment, which started a tense confrontation that devolved into Fortsons death. The sheriffs office released objective facts on the pairs interaction.

Doran waited at Fortsons door and listened for sounds of the possible disturbance. Hearing nothing, he knocked without announcing he was a deputy. He said he heard something to the effect of its the (expletive) police.

Doran knocked loudly two more times, this time announcing himself. When Forston opened the door, Doran saw him holding a gun in his right hand. The gun was pointed at the ground sufficiently enough for the former deputy to clearly see the rear face of the rear sight, according to the sheriffs offices account.

Almost immediately after opening the door, Doran shot him six times. In its findings, the sheriffs office concluded Fortson did not physically resist in any way and did not point the gun at Doran, which was seen in earlier released body camera footage.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This was a catastrophic failure on every level: By a deputy who used unjustifiable force, by a sheriffs office that failed to train its officers properly, and by an apartment employee whose reckless assumptions set this deadly chain of events into motion, said Attorney Ben Crump.

READ MORE: Black airman shot to death by a Florida deputy who blitzed wrong apartment, attorneys say

The lawsuit pointed out body camera footage and an internal affairs report confirmed that Fortson never raised his weapon and posed no threat.

Roger Fortson was a proud service member, a loving son, and a young man with his whole life ahead of him, Crump said. He deserved to feel safe in his own home. Instead, he was killed where he should have been safest, based on hearsay and bias. This lawsuit is about justice for Roger and accountability for those responsible for his needless death.
CAPE TOWN, South Africa (AP)  A far-left South African politician renowned for his anti-West rhetoric accused U.K. authorities Wednesday of denying him a visa to speak at an event at Cambridge University for political reasons.

Julius Malema, the leader of South Africa's Economic Freedom Fighters opposition party, said the decision was effectively a ban on him addressing students and an attempt to silence a dissenting political perspective.

He posted on social media platform X that he had been assured that his visa was being processed but had received a regret letter informing him his application was not successful while he was at Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport waiting for his flight to London.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Malema, who also uses the title Commander in Chief of his party, has previously demanded the U.K. pay reparations and apologize to African nations for colonialism. The lawmaker and his party have also accused the British monarchy of playing a leading role in the slave trade and colonial abuses.

The BBC reported that it had seen a leaked letter to Malema's EFF party from the British high commissioner to South Africa personally apologizing that the U.K. Home Office wasn't able to process Malema's visa in time and saying it was due to procedural issues. The letter from High Commissioner Antony Phillipson cited "the unfortunate timing" of recent British national holidays, according to the BBC.

The Home Office didn't comment.

Malema was due to speak at an Africa-themed event at Cambridge University on Saturday, his party said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The firebrand politician, who was expelled from South Africa's then-ruling African National Congress party in 2012, has also taken anti-Western positions recently on the war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas conflict. He has voiced support for Russia over its invasion of Ukraine and has accused Western nations of supporting and financing what he calls Israel's genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.

In October, the U.K. denied ex-South African lawmaker Mandla Mandela, the grandson of Nelson Mandela, a visa to travel and speak at pro-Palestinian events in several British cities. Mandla Mandela said he was informed by the Home Office that his visa had been rejected because of his support for the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which the U.K. considers a terrorist organization, and his presence was not conducive to the public good.

___

AP Africa news: https://apnews.com/hub/africa
(WHTM)  Agriculture is big business in Pennsylvania, but bad weather and malfunctioning equipment can ruin an entire season, so today, some farmers received a special blessing.

Farmers came to the State Capitol with pieces of their equipment for the Blessing of the Balers. The blessing signifies hope for a productive growing season.

We put our faith in agriculture for all of the necessities of our lives, and so too must we have faith in our equipment and the job that we need to get done, said Russell Redding, the PA Secretary of Agriculture.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

This Week in Pennsylvania

Another thing about our farmers, they spend 50% of the time praying for rain and the other 50% praying for sunshine, said Rep. Bud Cook (R-Greene/Washington counties)

Sure enough, it went from dry to downpour in less than a minute. Most farmers couldnt bring their entire baler, so they brought the hitch pins, which connect equipment to the balers.

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 ABC27.
MILAN, Italy, May 7. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is deepening its commitment to supporting the clean energy transition across Asia by focusing on renewable energy, energy storage, and grid infrastructure, said Scott Morris, ADB Vice-President for East Asia, Southeast Asia and the Pacific, during the closing session of the Banks 58th Annual Meeting, Trends special correspondent reports from Milan.

Morris underscored that ADBs approach to energy investment is increasingly centered on partnerships that mobilize private sector funding and innovation.

We already have a track record of making big commitments around renewable energy as the anchor of meeting these energy needs going forward, he said. We have a lot of models of success, but also of innovation that rely on the private sector using blending arrangements that incentivize these investments.

He noted that while the fundamentals of energy transition have long been clear, todays focus is shifting toward solving structural barriers such as inadequate transmission infrastructure and the lack of energy storage systems.

We need effective transmission for energy, and then really to make renewable energy the anchor that it needs to be, we need energy storage, Morris said. So much of the discussion now is focused on that.

Morris pointed to the importance of regional cooperation and market creation to drive scale, efficiency, and long-term development benefits in the energy sector.

The best way to meet renewable energy needs within each country is to create a regional market. That not only addresses energy needs but also creates opportunities for development and progress, he added.

ADBs leadership also reaffirmed its intention to continue guiding complex regional initiatives that require both financing and policy dialogue to overcome political and technical challenges.
As the Midtown South Mixed-use plan continues to be discussed among city officials, business owners and members of the public, a group of fashion designers are said to be uniting to present their concerns about the project.

The public review process for the plan, which calls for substantial rezoning and has the support of New York City Mayor Eric Adams, continued Wednesday with a public meeting. The project, which would require approval from the City Council, would cover four areas centered around Herald and Greeley Squares and stretching roughly between West 23rd and West 40th Streets and Fifth and Eighth avenues, with the Garment District comprising a portion of that.

More from WWD

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A group of stakeholders in the Garment District, including many designers, who are either based there or use various resources in the neighborhood are said to be drafting a joint letter to spell out their concerns.

Additional public review sessions are being planned. A vote by the City Planning Commission could be held this spring or early summer. If the commission votes to approve or modify the proposal, it would then go to the City Council for a public hearing and vote.

During Wednesdays City Planning Commission meeting, chair Dan Garodnick noted how the neighborhood has more than 7,000 businesses and 135,000 jobs, but vacancy rates are leaving some buildings unused especially since the pandemic. Inflexible outdated zoning has stymied housing growth and prevents the neighborhood from adapting and evolving. With a 1.4 vacancy rate fueling our dire housing crisis, its unbelievable that if somebody wanted to build housing in this area, the citys own rules would not allow it.

Garodnick said the status quo must be changed to advance every opportunity to create new homes and turn the tide on this crisis. The MSMX project would do that and create a vibrant 24/7 neighborhood with a mix of commercial, manufacturing and residential uses, spurring the creation of an estimated 9,700 new homes including up to 2,900 permanently restricted affordable homes, allowing 20,000 New Yorkers from all incomes to live in some of the most centrally located and highest-density parts of Manhattan, according to Garodnick.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If approved, the plan would mark the first time that mandatory inclusionary housing would be available in Midtown. It would also give way to key changes that were made through Mayor Eric Adams-supported City of Yes initiative including more flexible rules for office conversions, new high-density residential districts and new, more flexible zoning districts, Garodnick said.

Referring to the neighborhoods long and important legacy as an economic hub, he said the plan would support that by increasing foot traffic day and night through nonresidential uses like light manufacturing, office space and retail. That would allow for transportation improvements and community facilities such as libraries and schools, Garodnick said.

Manhattan Community Board 5, the Manhattan Borough Board and its president Mark Levine have given the plan favorable recommendations, according to the chair. But members of the fashion industry are not fully on board.

Sources said that a group of American fashion designers are uniting to relay their concerns about the plan. While they are said to understand how the neighborhood must evolve to keep up with housing and economic demands in the city, they are seeking safeguards for the fashion industry especially in relation to protecting affordable workspace and small businesses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some of the issues that the collective are rallying around are initiatives that have not panned out as expected. One example is how landlords had pledged a total of $25 million to the neighborhood BID funds; the bulk of the earmarked money was never distributed. Another topic is how the city had allocated $20 million for a centralized garment production space, but that has not transpired, and the funds were not redirected. Another matter that is being talked about is how a tax break that was geared for landlords who retained garment business tenants, was not activated, because no one opted in. Another issue with the designers is how during the pandemic shutdown, the city suspended the Fashion Manufacturing Initiative and a proposed Local Production Fund that would help small brands with local factories was never fully realized, sources said.

Best of WWD

Sign up for WWD's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Jon Bahr holds his newborn daughter, Taverie, in March while testing equipment at the new MilkShake Factory franchise in Colorado Springs, Colo., he opened with his wife, Micayla Bahr. Colorado had a 4.5% increase in births last year, the largest in the nation, as births increased nationally for the first time since 2021. (Courtesy of Jon Bahr/MilkShake Factory)

The number of births in some Western states that are adding new housing rose last year, reversing losses the year before in many cases, according to recently released federal statistics.

Increases from 2023 to 2024 were highest in Colorado (4.5%), Idaho (3.8%), Utah (3.6%), Washington state and Nebraska (each 2.6%). Births increased around 2% in West Virginia, South Dakota, North Carolina, Montana, Rhode Island and South Carolina.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Almost all those states had decreases in births the previous year, and many have been building housing rapidly since 2023. Idaho, North Carolina and Utah have issued enough building permits in 2023 and 2024 to add about 4% to their housing stock, the highest in the nation.

Melissa Kearney, an economics professor at the University of Maryland who specializes in families and fertility, said there could be a link between homebuilding and more babies.

It is quite possible that increased access to home ownership, coming from a reduction in the price of houses in places that are building more houses, could meaningfully increase birth rates, Kearney told Stateline in an e-mail.

Many of the other states with increases in births are also seeing building booms: Colorado, Nebraska, South Carolina, South Dakota and Washington state are all set to add more than 2% to housing stock based on permits issued in 2023 and 2024, according to a Stateline analysis of U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey data.

Building permits can take up to two years to translate into finished houses and apartments, but they indicate which states are most willing to allow new housing that can boost population, tax receipts and the workforce. In Colorado, Denver County is set to add almost 10,000 housing units and in Idaho, Ada County, which includes Boise, could add 11,200 units based on building permits.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Nationally births were slightly higher in 2024 than the year before, by about 1%, according to provisional federal numbers from the National Vital Statistics System within the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The fertility rate also increased slightly, but it remains below the replacement level needed to keep the population stable  2.1 children for each woman over her lifetime.

All the increase nationally was in births to Hispanic and Asian mothers, with births continuing to decline for Black, American Indian and white mothers. Births to teenagers and women ages 20-24, in sharp decline since 2007, continued to drop last year, while births increased for women 25 and older.

The number of births dropped most in states struggling with stagnant population: falling about 4% in Louisiana, 3% in Mississippi, and 2% in New Mexico and New Hampshire. All those states had little or no population growth between mid-2023 and mid-2024, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Stateline reporter Tim Henderson can be reached at thenderson@stateline.org.

The story is republished from Stateline, a sister publication to the Kentucky Lantern and part of the nonprofit States Newsroom network.
The Wayne County Prosecutor's Office said Andre Stephon-Curtis Broadenax faces several felony charges in connection with a home invasion

He also faces charges related to inducing a minor to commit a felony after allegedly forcing his 11-year-old daughter to help him break into a home

Broadenax was reportedly caught inside the home and fled without his daughter

A man has been charged with breaking and entering  and allegedly forcing his 11-year-old daughter to help, prosecutors says.

On Monday, May 5, Wayne County Prosecutor's Office in Michigan announced that Andre Stephon-Curtis Broadenax, 29, faces several felony charges in connection with a home invasion and a car theft in the Detroit area.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The prosecutors office claimed that Broadenax forced his way inside the home of a 75-year-old Detroit man on Marquette Drive on April 29 at approximately 8:43 p.m. local time. Authorities alleged that he arrived at the home in a stolen car  which belonged to a 52-year-old Dearborn Heights man  with his 11-year-old daughter in tow.

It is also alleged that the defendant forced his 11-year-old daughter to assist him with the home invasion, the prosecutors office said.

Raymond Boyd/Getty A Detroit police car sits on a downtown street on July 18, 2014 A Detroit police car sits on a downtown street on July 18, 2014

Broadenax allegedly fled the scene on foot before he was eventually arrested a short time later by officers with the Detroit Police Department, the prosecutors office said.

According to a police dispatch and neighbors, the homeowners son arrived at the property at around 8:45 p.m. and "discovered Broadenax inside the home," which was being renovated, WXYZ- TV reported.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Per the outlet, Broadenax allegedly ran away and left behind the stolen car, along with his daughter.

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.

One neighbor, David Bridges, told WXYZ-TV that his aunt had gone to the balcony and saw all the cops outside." He said police established a perimeter fence in the neighborhood as they worked to capture the home invasion suspect.

The Wayne County Prosecutor's Office said Broadenax has since been charged with first-degree home Invasion, second-degree home invasion, larceny in a building, receiving and concealing a motor vehicle, inducing a minor to commit a felony and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He was arraigned on May 2 and initially given a $75,000 bond with a GPS tether and house arrest. However, the judge increased his bond to $150,000 on Monday.

Broadenaxs next court appearance is scheduled for May 14.



Read the original article on People
OGDEN, Utah (ABC4)  The father of Gavin Peterson has received the maximum sentence less than a year after the 12-year-olds death. On July 9, 2024, Gavin Peterson died at a Weber County hospital. Only days later, three of his family members would be arrested for child abuse homicide.

The Utah Division of Child and Family Services later released documents detailing several years of investigation of the Peterson familys abuse of Gavin. Their report concluded that Gavin suffered severe and chronic physical abuse and severe and chronic physical neglect.

Today, Shane Jesse Peterson entered the courtroom to be sentenced after pleading guilty in March. He pleaded guilty to five felony charges: one count of child abuse homicide, three counts of aggravated child abuse, and one count of endangerment of a child.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

TIMELINE: DCFS reveals years-long Gavin Peterson child abuse investigation before July death

Shane Peterson was sentenced to five years to life for the child abuse homicide charge, three 1  15 year sentences for aggravated child abuse, and up to five years for child endangerment. These sentences are to run consecutively with each other and any other sentences. Judge Camille L. Neider of the Second District Court spoke to Shane Peterson before the sentencing.

I agree that you should be given the maximum sentence, Judge Neider stated. I am also going to encourage the board to keep you until you die.

Judge Neider was brought to tears as she read the facts of the case.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gavin likely endured unimaginable suffering in the weeks, if not months, leading up to his death, Neider said.

She addressed Shane Peterson directly, telling him that while she was sentencing him based on the facts of the case, it did not mean she was devoid of emotion or care.

Protestors rally as father, brother of Gavin Peterson plead guilty in court

You were Gavins dad. I dont think you deserve that title anymore, but theres unfortunately that can be done to change that, Judge Neider said. I also find it telling that I am more emotional about this than you are.

Nichole Lea Scott, Gavins stepmother, pleaded guilty on April 7, and her sentencing is set for May 12. She pleaded guilty to eight charges, including murder, child abuse, obstruction of justice, and endangering a child.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tyler Shane Peterson, Gavins brother, was released for treatment due to mental health recommendations from his attorney and is living with family. He pleaded guilty the same day as his father, but his sentencing has not been set. Tyler Peterson will be in court on May 22 to review the treatment he is receiving.

Derick Fox contributed to this report.

Latest headlines:

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.
WASHINGTON (WJW)  More than 100 children were rescued and more than 200 people were arrested in a nationwide child sexual abuse crackdown, according to federal justice officials.

Among those arrested were 11 alleged offenders from Northeast Ohio, according to the Cleveland FBI.

Man killed in Geauga County crash that involved dump truck

Operation Restore Justice was a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators, according to a Wednesday news release from the U.S. Department of Justice. The five-day effort involved all of the FBIs 55 field offices and U.S. attorneys offices across the country, according to the release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Those arrested have been charged with producing or distributing child pornography, online enticement and transportation of minors and child sex trafficking, according to the release.

Parents vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in the arrests, according to the release.

The FBI urges parents and caregivers to stay engaged with their childrens online and offline activities, recognize behavioral changes and maintain open communication, reads a Wednesday Facebook post from the Cleveland FBI.

AG announces largest fentanyl bust in our nations history spanning 5 states

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

FOX 8 News has reached out to the Cleveland FBI for the identities of the suspects.

The FBI offers tips for parents to keep their kids safe. Child exploitation can be reported through the FBIs tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), by visiting tips.fbi.gov or by calling your local FBI field office.

Missing children can be reported by calling the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) or by visiting missingkids.org.

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.
DENVER (KDVR)  Five people were indicted by a Colorado grand jury on charges of possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Colorado.

The indictment for the case cites five incidents between June 24, 2024, and April 15, 2025, wherein officials alleged that the defendants had either 400 grams or 40 grams or more of fentanyl and were intending to sell it.

The office identified the defendants and their charges in the case as:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Exor Omar Villanueva Raudales, aka Brian, 36 Two counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl Two counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl

Alex Yubini Canaca Calix, 32 One count of distribution and possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl

Luis Fernando Banega Moncada, 21 One count of distribution and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl

Alejandro Torres Ochoa, 38 Two counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl

Juan Carlos Sosa Villanueva, 34 One count of distribution and possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl



The office said that Raudales was involved with four of the incidents discussed in the indictment, working alongside Calix, Moncada and Villanueva to complete fentanyl purchases. Two of the incidents involved Ochoa, the office said, who completed one deal by himself on one day, and then reportedly completed a second with Raudales and Villanueva on another.

The office said that Moncada, Ochoa and Villanueva are all Honduran and were undocumented immigrations in the U.S. They all appeared in court on April 29 and have been detained pending trial.

Raudales is not in any custody and remains at large, the U.S. Attorneys Office said, but Calix was deported from America before the offices release on Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The case is being investigated by the Denver FBI Field Office, the Denver DEA office, Immigration and Customs Enforcements Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the Internal Revenue Services Criminal Investigation unit.

The U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Colorado said that the case is part of a nationwide U.S. Department of Justice initiative called Operation Take Back America, which is described as an effort to repel the invasion of undocumented immigrants, fight cartels and transnational crime organizations and protect residents from violent crime.

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 U.S. Department of Justice announced the rescue of 115 child exploitation victims and the arrest of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in Operation Restore Justice on Wednesday.

Three offenders, including a K-sixth grade public charter school director, were apprehended in Utah.

Attorney General Pam Bondi and Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Kash Patel released the operation report at a press conference in Washington.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These depraved human beings, if convicted, will face the maximum penalty in prison, some life, Bondi said. We will find you, we will arrest you, and we will charge you. If you are online, targeting a child, you will not escape us. The FBI and the Department of Justice will come after you, and we will prosecute you.

The nationwide effort involved all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Departments Criminal Division, and United States Attorneys Offices around the country.

Patel added that the tireless and mentally demanding job of removing child predators from American society, done collaboratively by attorneys, agents, and other law enforcement, is some of the harshest criminality weve ever seen.

People in places of public trust have violated not only the law, but that public trust, Patel said. The arrests included teachers, law enforcement personnel, and other professionals that we look to safeguard our children, have not only violated the law but violated the trust, emphasizing that the mission of the Trump administration is clear to child predators:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You will be hunted down and you will be prosecuted, he said, And that is a refreshing thing to hear for the men and women who do this work tirelessly, and its also an acknowledgement of the safety that we look forward to bringing America.

Child exploitation in Utah

Supervisory Special Agent Dustin Grant, who oversees Utahs FBI Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, said every day is a fire, but thats a good thing.

Our work is spent trying to find offenders on the internet who are targeting children, either in a trafficking scenario or a sexual exploitation scenario, and identifying them, disrupting the groups and trying to bring justice for our victims that we find here in Utah, he told a room of reporters at the FBIs Salt Lake City headquarters on Wednesday.

In Operation Restore Justice, three people in Utah were identified as alleged child sexual abusers:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gustavo Uroza-Rodriguez, charged on April 23, with attempted coercion and enticement, distribution of child pornography, and possession of child pornography.

Melissa Goodrich, charged on April 23, with trafficking of a minor.

Jared Buckley, charged on April 23, 2025, with possession of child sexual abuse material.

According to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Utah, Buckley was the lead director of the Leadership Learning Academy campuses in Layton and Ogden, Utah, a charter school for grades kindergarten through sixth grade, until his arrest.

During the forensic operation of Buckleys belongings, agents found well over 10,000 images and videos of child sexual abuse material. The forensic examination of the cell phone also revealed evidence that Buckley has been distributing images of child sexual abuse material across multiple on-line platforms.

Online is where Grant said the majority of abusers go to prey on children; most offenders of Utah victims dont even live in the state, he noted. When it comes to Utah, based on state population, the amount of cases seems on par compared to other states.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We do have offenders that are in Utah, but theyre not just targeting victims in Utah, but possibly in other states, because they cant just do it from the internet, Grant added. Thats where were trying to engage in our online undercover techniques, and trying to disrupt a lot of that behavior, to identify victims before the behavior gets worse, and also maybe make a stop to some of these guys who are more prolific in what theyre doing on the internet.

A harrowing trend his team is seeing in Utah is sextortion, where a minor will believe they are in conversation with someone of a similar age who is interested in pursuing a relationship with them, but is actually an adult posing as a young person.

The abuser will then coerce them into sharing sexually explicit materials of themselves, which they will then use against the child to exploit money.

So financial, sexually motivated crimes. Largely boys that are being targeted. Thats the bulk of what we handle lately, Grant said. Though its a national issue, I would say here in Utah, thats a trend that were seeing upwards throughout the last few years (and) is something Ive seen personally.

What can parents do?

Grant said it shouldnt come as much of a shock that the majority of interactions between child victims and adult predators are occurring on the most popular social media platforms, like TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat and even gaming platforms.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I think if you know your kid very well, theres going to be obvious behaviors that will be concerning to you, Grant said. Still, just like with the concerns of your child going behind the wheel for the first time, social media is the same. Theres inherent risks and dangers that are associated with that.

But he cautioned parents to stay involved in what their child does on their phone and who they interact with. Were constantly engaging with school systems and parents on a yearly basis to make sure that these are the risks that youre inherently creating when you give a kid a phone and allowing them to have social media.
The US Food and Drug Administration has approved a type of CRISPR gene-edited pig for human consumption.

As MIT Technology Review reports, only an extremely limited list of gene-modified animals are cleared by regulators to be eaten in the United States, including a transgenic salmon that has an extra gene to grow faster, and heat-tolerant beef cattle.

And now a type of illness-resistant pig could soon join their ranks. British company Genus used the popular gene-editing technique CRISPR to make pigs immune to a virus that causes an illness called porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It's the same technology that's been used to gene-hack human babies  experiments that have proven far more controversial  and develop medicine in the form of gene therapies.

The PRRS virus can easily spread in factory farms in the US and cause the inability to conceive, increase the number of stillborn pigs, and trigger respiratory complications, including pneumonia.

It's been called the "most economically important disease" affecting pig producers, since it can have a devastating effect on their bottom lines. According to MIT Tech, it causes losses of more than $300 million a year in the US alone.

Genus' gene-editing efforts have proven highly successful so far, with the pigs appearing immune to 99 percent of known versions of the virus.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Using CRISPR, the company knocked out a receptor that allowed the PRRS virus to enter cells, effectively barring it from infecting its host.

Beyond the respiratory illness, scientists are using gene-editing to make pigs less vulnerable or even immune to other infections, including swine fever.

But before we can eat a pork chop from a gene-edited pig, Genus says that it will have to lock down regulatory approval in Mexico, Canada, Japan, and China as well, the United States' biggest export markets for pork, as MIT Tech reports.

The company is hoping gene-edited pork could land in the US market as soon as next year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But whether you'll actually know if you're eating meat from a pig that had a virus receptor turned off using a cutting-edge DNA modification technique is unclear.

"We aren't aware of any labelling requirement," Genus subsidiary Pig Improvement Company CEO Matt Culbertson told MIT Tech.

More on CRISPR: Scientist Who Gene-Hacked Human Babies Says Ethics Are "Holding Back" Scientific Progress
Smartphone prices from China rise despite decline in imports to Azerbaijan in early 2025

Photo: rtificial intelligence

During the first couple of months of 2025, Azerbaijan brought in more than 154,000 smartphones from China, racking up a bill of $41.7 million. This signaled a drop of nearly 9 percent in quantity and over 5 percent in value when stacked against the same period in 2024. Even though imports took a hit, the average price per device climbed the ladder by 3.7 percent, landing at $270.4. All in all, Azerbaijan brought in over 183,000 smartphones from various corners of the globe during the reporting period.

Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register
The head of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday reportedly raised doubts about the need for COVID booster shots for all Americans and questioned the success of past clinical trials, after earlier suggesting the shots might not be approved for next winter.

We need some better data, FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary said at the American Hospital Associations annual meeting in Washington, D.C., according to news outlet HealthDay.

Makary, who last week told CBS News that the shots may not be approved for later this year due to a void of supporting data, said pharmaceutical companies are being urged to use gold standard science to show that the shots have a clinical benefit.

Dr. Marty Makary is seen during his Senate confirmation hearing in Washington in March. Bill Clark via Getty Images

We cant just extrapolate from a clinical trial from four or five years ago, he said Tuesday. Americans have a very low uptake and a very low confidence of the COVID boosters right now.

Advertisement Advertisement

He also said that the FDA is considering whether to recommend the shots to everyone or primarily to high-risk groups.

Should we really be putting the full weight of the government to urge vaccination against COVID for a healthy, thin 12-year-old girl with her seventh COVID booster right now today in America? he said. I dont think so.

Makary, who was confirmed to lead the FDA in March, is a former Johns Hopkins University surgeon and researcher who during the pandemic publicly opposed vaccine mandates and criticized the department that he now leads.

He in particular spoke out against requiring booster shots in young people, with him concluding in a 2022 paper he co-authored that the shots are expected to cause a net harm. That paper was criticized as being unobjective and based on cherry-picked information that excluded opposing data.

Advertisement Advertisement

The FDA on Wednesday said it will hold a public discussion later this month with independent outside experts to discuss and make recommendations on the selection of the COVID-19 vaccines 2025-2026 formula.

The general function of the committee is to provide advice and recommendations to FDA on regulatory issues, the FDA said in a draft notice of the May 22 meeting that was posted online.

Related...
The Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday named Dr. Vinay Prasad  a hematologist-oncologist who has been accused of spreading misinformation about Covid vaccines and was an outspoken critic of the agencys decision to approve Covid shots in children  as its new vaccine chief.

The FDA commissioner, Dr. Marty Makary, announced Prasad would lead the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research to agency employees earlier Tuesday and later on X.

Makary called the appointment a significant step forward, saying Prasad would bring scientific rigor, independence, and transparency.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Prasad comes from the University of California, San Francisco, where he most recently was a professor of epidemiology and biostatistics. He is a practicing physician, according to his website.

He spent much of the pandemic criticizing the FDAs and the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions response to the virus.

In a 2021 blog post and an accompanying video, Prasad suggested the national response to Covid might bring on the collapse of democracy, invoking the rise of Hitler and the Third Reich in Germany.

On the blog that year, Prasad downplayed the anti-vaccine activism of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.  now the secretary of health and human services  specifically his role in a 2019 measles outbreak in Samoa.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Bari Weiss contrarian website, The Free Press, Prasad seemed to defend Kennedys most controversial positions on vaccines, raw milk and fluoride by listing other countries that have policies that align with Kennedys views.

Prasad has also been an outspoken critic of Dr. Peter Marks, the FDAs former vaccine chief, saying on Twitter, now X, in 2022 that Marks might be the worst FDA regulator in modern history after the approval of Covid boosters in children. Last year, he called on Marks to be fired ASAP, claiming the FDA approved boosters for kids who had already had Covid with no data. The agency approved the boosters based on blood samples and safety data from other versions of the vaccines.

Prasad has also advocated for randomized placebo-controlled trials for the Covid vaccines every year  a position the FDA, in the Trump administration, now appears to support.

Dr. Buddy Creech, a pediatric infectious disease physician at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, noted that some of Prasads views  including that healthy children and other low-risk groups may not need additional Covid vaccinations  are more widely accepted in the scientific community now.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, Prasads criticism of the health agencies response during the pandemic is unfair, he said.

If we had the luxury of knowing then what we know now, we would do it differently, Creech said. But my goodness, the world was on fire, and we were doing our best.

Dr. Paul Offit, the director of the Vaccine Education Center at Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, who has been a critic of Kennedy, said Prasads past comments are dangerous and irresponsible, noting that 1,800 children have died from Covid and hundreds of thousands have been hospitalized. The center, a member of the World Health Organization's vaccine safety program, provides information about vaccines to parents.

Does he think Covid doesnt hurt children? Offit said. It makes me think he never spent a minute in a childrens hospital.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Offit also questioned whether Prasad was fit for the role as an oncologist and hematologist. As head of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Prasad would also oversee a number of other medical products, including gene therapies.

He has no experience at all in vaccine research or design or development of testing, Offit said. He added that most people in the role do have such experience  although Marks, the former vaccine chief, was also criticized for having a background in oncology and hematology.

Prasad didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

In late March, Kennedy forced Marks out of his position.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Marks wrote in his resignation letter that undermining confidence in vaccines is irresponsible, detrimental to public health, and a clear danger to our nations health, safety, and security.

According to a poll published Tuesday by KFF, a health policy research group, less than half of Americans say they have confidence in the Trump administrations health agencies, including the FDA, to protect against outbreak of infectious diseases and ensure the safety and effectiveness of prescription drugs and vaccines, among their other responsibilities. The poll, which was conducted last month, found that most adults say they are at least somewhat confident in the safety of many routine vaccines, including those for measles and the flu.

After the announcement, a group of biotech stocks, including vaccine makers, fell more than 6%, suggesting investors didnt have a favorable view of what Prasad could do in the role.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has tapped Dr. Vinay Prasad to lead the agencys Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, which oversees vaccines, blood supply, and gene therapies.

Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary wrote on X that he would bring the kind of scientific rigor, independence, and transparency that is needed.

He brings a great set of skills, energy, and competence to the FDA, Makary, reportedly wrote in an email to staff obtained by The Washington Post.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The appointment, replacing Dr. Peter Marks, has also received some backlash from social media users.

Prasad enjoys a huge following on social media, where he often comments on popular health and politics topics.

He has also criticized the decision to approve the shots for children, even though recent research has found the vaccines protected children from the sometimes debilitating effects of Long Covid.

Heres what to know about him.

Early life

U.C. San Francisco Dr. Vinay Prasad has been picked to lead the FDAs Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. Prasad, a YouTuber and podcaster, has been a vocal critic of the agency (X/@VPrasadMDMPH)

Raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Prasad  whose full name is Vinayak  was born to immigrant parents. They later moved to northern Indiana. He attended Michigan State University in the early 2000s, earning degrees in philosophy and physiology before moving to the University of Chicago for his medical degree and Johns Hopkins University for a masters in public health.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Im a medical oncologist who does research on policy and the evidence base of medicine. What I do directly follows from the classes I took in college, he said in an interview published by Michigan States Honors College.

In 2015, he completed a fellowship in oncology at the National Cancer Institute and in haematology at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.

Prasad is not married and has no known children.

Recent work

From 2015 to 2020, he taught at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, Oregon.

Prasad is now a professor of epidemiology, biostatistics, and medicine at U.C. San Francisco. He is also a practicing haematologist oncologist at San Francisco General Hospital.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He runs the VKPrasad lab there, studying cancer drugs, health policy, clinical trials, and better decision-making.

He teaching at at U.C. San Francisco has won awards.

He is the author of more than 4,000 peer-review papers, has penned more than 100 op-eds, and hosts an oncology podcast. His YouTube channel has over 100,000 subscribers.

Hes published two books titled: Malignant: How Bad Policy and Bad Evidence Harm People with Cancer and "Ending Medical Reversal: Improving Outcomes, Saving Lives."

Views on vaccines

Prasads views on vaccines are a relatively mixed bag. He has criticized Health and Human Services Secretary RFK Jrs conspiracy theories linking certain vaccination to autism, but also believes that children should not be subject to the Covid vaccine.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For years, RFK Jr. has pushed the long-debunked link between the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine and autism. He has, in fact, made millions from peddling this bunk, Prasad said in a piece last November.

If RFK Jr. uses his perch as HHS secretary to discourage parents from getting their children inoculated with the MMR vaccine, severe negative repercussions could result, including measles outbreaks and childhood deaths. This is not a good policy, he added.

Prasad has lamented how the nation talks about vaccines, saying they should be discussed just like drugs. Hes called to repeal vaccine indemnification, including the national vaccine injury compensation program.

Furthermore, Prasad has said that mRNA vaccine science should be deprioritized. The Covid vaccines are mRNA vaccines.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a more recent post, he said the CDC should pull the Covid shot for kids, because there is no randomized evidence that kids ever benefit (in terms of real clinical outcomes) from this shot, and no evidence of any sort that a kid born today will need one in the future.

But, hes also said the vaccine itself was miraculous and life-saving.

I'm 100% persuaded that an older, unvaccinated person who did not have COVID-19 definitely benefited from the vaccine in January, February, and March of 2021, he said in an interview on Substack. ...Now, what I'm not sure about is if a 20-year-old who already had COVID-19, do they benefit from getting the dose of the vaccine?

Discussing the recent measles outbreak, Prasad has said there should not be a culture where adults are paranoid and get boosters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you think that I am going to check my records and get a measles booster in 2025 you are pretty f****** stupid, he wrote on X.

Prasad breaks with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., over tying autism to vaccines. Hes called any association bunk (Getty)

Other views

Prasad has said the FDA is a failure, rubber stamping too many useless products.

Hes often discussed politics and ongoings at the Trump administration, saying that withdrawing from the World Health Organization is in Americas interest. Prasad has taken issue with recent media reaction to mass layoffs.

Hes questioned RFK Jrs link to the Samoa measles outbreak, and spoken out in support of an effort to ban artificial dye in food products.

Prasad has called Jay Bhattacharya a superb pick to lead the National Institutes of Health, and criticized Dr. Anthony Fauci for perpetrating malicious lies.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Following a 2021 blog post, Prasad received heat for saying public health measures may have laid the groundwork for fascism. Several people labeled the remarks as antisemitic.

Prasad has said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has done a bad job, accusing them of using propaganda in their response to the Covid pandemic. He is a member of Urgency of Normal: a group formed in support of ending pandemic precautions for children.

When the pandemic ends and people have no faith in public health, it would be wrong to blame Joe Rogan. Its institutions like the CDC and our leaders who push bad info masquerading as science, Prasad said.

This article was amended on 13 May 2025. It previously stated that he had been accused of spreading misinformation about Covid vaccines by the Association of Immunization Managers (AIM), however this was not the case. While a presentation hosted on the associations website did accuse him of this, it was not produced by the AIM but by a third party. The presentation has subsequently been removed.
John McCosh/States Newsroom

Updated at 2:30 p.m.

A federal appeals panel has upheld Michigans process for removing deceased voters from the voting rolls.

In a decision released Tuesday, the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals denied an appeal of a lower courts dismissal of a lawsuit by the Public Interest Legal Foundation, a conservative group that has filed legal challenges across the U.S. seeking to remove people from voter rolls.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Im very grateful that a federal court has once again recognized our strong work keeping our voter file up to date, Benson said in a press release. Since 2020, our department has fought a record number of lawsuits based on false and meritless claims meant to undermine peoples faith in Michigans elections.

Public Interest Legal Foundation filed the lawsuit against Benson, a Democrat who is also a candidate for governor, in November 2021, alleging Michigan was violating the National Voter Registration Act by refusing to remove 27,000 individuals from its qualified voter file the group said were dead.

Lawyers for Bensons office had argued that she declined to remove the voters because doing so without confirming the accuracy of the groups list would have risked removing eligible voters in violation of federal voting law, which seeks to ensure voters arent wrongly removed.

That argument was supported by U.S. District Court Judge Jane Beckering of the Western District of Michigan, who in March 2024 rejected as theoretical the harms claimed by the group, and concluded that deceased voters were removed from Michigans voter rolls on a regular basis.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In its decision to reject Public Interest Legal Foundations appeal, the 6th Circuit said Michigan has actively made an inherently rational, sensible attempt at maintaining accurate voter registration lists, and that the state goes further by also actively employing a third party, ERIC, to assist in identifying deceased registrants. This additional effort only further enhances the reasonableness of Michigans efforts to maintain accurate voter rolls.

The Electronic Registration Information Center, commonly called ERIC, is a nonpartisan interstate cooperative that seeks to maintain accurate voter registration rolls.

According to the Public Interest Legal Foundations website, the group has filed numerous lawsuits across the country requesting similar releases of voter roll information in an effort to prove illegal voting, which is extremely rare.

J. Christian Adams, president of the Public Interest Legal Foundation, sent the following to Michigan Advance when asked for comment on the decision,

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Disappointed that what Congress thought it was passing to keep rolls clean isnt being implemented, Adams said.

Data from the U.S. Election Assistance Commission ranked Michigan fifth in the nation in 2020 and 2022 in removing registrations of voters who have died.

This story was updated with comment from the Public Interest Legal Foundation.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
One of the charges filed against Judge Hannah Dugan has been issued only twice before in Wisconsin since 1970, according to a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel review of court records.

Federal authorities have accused Dugan of helping an undocumented immigrant defendant evade arrest by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE.

Dugan was charged April 25 with a misdemeanor and a felony  one for concealing a person to prevent his arrest and the other for obstructing a proceeding before a U.S. department.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While the misdemeanor concealing charge is relatively common, the felony obstruction charge is rarely used and is an obscure part of the federal criminal law originally developed to thwart business monopolies, the Journal Sentinel found.

Obstructing a federal agency is also known as Section 1505 of the federal criminal code.

The felony charge originates from the 1962 Antitrust Civil Process Act, a law meant to help the federal government fight business corruption and monopolies.

Since 1970, just two federal cases have been filed under that statute in Wisconsin. Both of the cases  one from 2017 and one from 2022  involved businesses that allegedly lied to federal workplace safety inspectors.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The 2017 case involved a company that lied to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, about the existence of asbestos during an investigation. The 2022 case involved a company that lied about knowledge of flammable materials that would eventually claim the lives of five workers in a factory explosion.

Both companies were convicted.

Laurie Levenson, a professor at Loyola Law School and former federal prosecutor, said the rarity of the charge means that the public has few reference points for how things might play out.

However, a similar federal obstruction charge used in one of Jan. 6 Capitol riot cases may be a useful comparison, Levenson said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A former police officer, Joseph Fischer, entered the U.S. Capitol during the January 6, 2021 riot. He was charged with section 1512(c)(2) of the federal criminal law, which concerns those who "otherwise obstructs" any "official proceeding, or attempts to do so," according to the federal criminal code.

The U.S. Supreme Court decided in that case that prosecutors were stretching the original purpose of the statute. The justices ruled the obstruction charge applied only in relation to the first section of the law where someone is physically tampering with evidence.

"I think there's going to be an interesting discussion on whether this statute was ever designed to apply in this situation," Levenson said of the Dugan case.

Reporter Eva Wen can be reached at qwen@gannett.com

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Felony charge filed against Milwaukee Judge Hannah Dugan rarely used
A federal judge in Massachusetts on Wednesday blocked the Trump administration from deporting a group of migrants overseas, possibly to Libya and Saudi Arabia.

The move is a swift court loss for Trump amid reports the White House is eyeing additional overseas locations to deport migrants.

U.S. District Court Judge Brian Murphy agreed to a plea from migrants to halt potential flights, saying said any effort to remove them would clearly violate his previous order barring deportation of a group detained in Massachusetts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Two of the plaintiffs had been informed by immigration agents that they were to be imminently removed to the two locations.

The filing comes as numerous outlets have reported the Trump administration is exploring sending migrants to Libya despite long-standing State Department warnings about conditions in the country. CNN also reported Wednesday that an Air Force flight was being arranged from Texas to Libya.

Given that class members are now facing imminent removal to Libya in a matter of minutes or hours, Plaintiffs ask this Court for an immediate order restrain[ing] all flights carrying class members to Libya or any other third country, and if necessary, ordering the immediate return of any class members removed to Libya until Defendants provide the Court and Class Counsel with evidence that Defendants have complied with all terms of the preliminary injunction, the filing states.

The filing indicates the Trump administration planned to send Laotian, Vietnamese and Philippine migrants overseas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Multiple credible sources report that flights are preparing to immediately depart the United States carrying class members for removal to Libya, it states.

One attorney explains that [U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement] (ICE) verbally informed his Filipino client  who has a final order of removal  that he would be removed to Libya, the filing stated.

Class Counsel has also received a report that Defendants and those working with them may be planning flights to Saudi Arabia. At least one detainee  a citizen of Laos  reported that he had been verbally informed he was to be removed imminently to Saudi Arabia on a military flight.

The plaintiffs in the case argued they should have an opportunity to apply for protection under the United Nations Convention Against Torture  scoring an initial win before Murphy, though the Trump administration has since appealed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This motion should not even be required as it blatantly defies this Courts preliminary injunctions to remove class members without proper notice, the attorneys argued.

Murphy agreed, saying his Wednesday order was a clarification.

The Court agrees with Plaintiffs that this motion should not be required, as the relief sought is already provided by the Preliminary Injunction entered in this case, he wrote.

He added that the Trump administration may not evade this injunction by ceding control over non-citizens or the enforcement of its immigration responsibilities to any other agency, including but not limited to the Department of Defense.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Trump administration has not responded to reports it plans to send migrants to Libya, with President Trump on Wednesday telling reporters to ask the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

DHS has not responded to multiple requests for comment from The Hill.

Trump is expected to travel to Saudi Arabia next week and also visit the United Arab Emirates and Qatar.

The State Department offers a bleak assessment of Libya, rating it as a Level 4: Do not travel country due to crime, terrorism, unexploded landmines, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict.

A 2023 State Department report on human rights in the country described migrant detention facilities in Libya as rife with severe overcrowding, insufficient access to toilets and washing facilities, malnourishment, lack of potable water, and spread of communicable diseases.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It also said the facilities had no access to immigration courts or due process.

The Trump administration has been criticized for sending Venezuelan migrants to a notorious prison in El Salvador where it argued they cannot be reached once they are no longer in U.S. custody.

It has also sent migrants from countries including Iran and China to Panama, where they were initially held in a hotel for several days.

Rwandan officials have also said they are in discussions with the Trump administration to accept deportees.

This story was updated at 6:24 p.m.

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.
May 7A federal judge has again sided with the University of Maine System in a lawsuit filed by an evangelical church to stop the sale of a Belfast building it once hoped to buy.

The Calvary Chapel Belfast is arguing the system exhibited antireligious bias when it revoked an agreement it had to sell the Hutchinson Center to the church and entertained another round of bids, ultimately selling the building to a local nonprofit in November. The church and university system have been locked in a legal dispute ever since.

U.S. District Court Judge Stacey Neumann issued a ruling Wednesday in which she said the church failed to show evidence of religious animus in the system's decision. Calvary Chapel quickly filed an appeal to the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Boston.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The church has produced no evidence of impermissible religious animus from within the system," and there is no "intent by the system to discriminate on the basis of religion or adopt the community's religious animus," Neumann wrote.

University of Maine System spokesperson Samantha Warren said an emailed statement Wednesday that the system has always maintained it did not discriminate against the church.

"Today, the court upheld that the transparent, competitive process through which our system has sought to sell the Hutchinson Center offered fair opportunity to all parties," Warren said. "That includes those who may be disappointed by our decision to ultimately award the right to negotiate sale terms and conditions to a community organization that offered more than double the purchase price of any other bidder."

Liberty Counsel, a Christian ministry based in Orlando, Florida, that litigates on behalf of religious freedom causes, is representing Calvary Chapel. Daniel Schmid, the lead attorney on the case, said Wednesday that he believes the judge's ruling was incorrect and ignored evidence that the system violated its own process.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"They blew up the entire procedure to rescind Calvary Chapel's award, and then looked for a backdoor to justify their pretextual rescission of that. And we think we have a good chance of success on appeal," Schmid said.

THE BIDS

The University of Maine System received three bids last summer when it opened up a sale of the Hutchinson Center, a Belfast educational hub that hasn't hosted in-person classes since 2020. The winning bid came from Calvary Chapel Belfast, which said it planned to use the building to expand its congregation.

But the two other bidders filed appeals, some community members objected and the system ultimately rescinded the sale, citing a procedural error in the assessment process that didn't account for a network hub based in the building and the cost of keeping it in place.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The system put out a new call for bids in the fall and received offers from the same three bidders. This time, the nonprofit Waldo Community Action Partners submitted a bid for $3.06 million  far over the assessed value and much higher than Calvary Chapel's second-round bid of $1.1 million. The system awarded WCAP the building in November.

Shortly after, the church filed a lawsuit in federal court, arguing the system showed religious bias in the bidding and sale process. It also requested a temporary restraining order to stop the sale. But Neumann denied that request in January, writing that the church did not present sufficient evidence that the system was motivated by religious bias or that the bidding process was rigged.

The court held an evidentiary hearing on March 4 on a preliminary injunction requested by the church, which again sought to stop the sale while litigation continued. In her ruling this week on that injunction, Neumann maintained her position.

Schmid, the church's attorney, believes that the church provided plenty of evidence that public animus against the church pressured the university to change its decision. And he said the process is a long way from over  in addition to the appeal, the church has filed a notice in the Waldo County recording office that warns potential purchasers of the building that the lawsuit may "unwind" that sale.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I would have preferred for Calvary Chapel be in it today. They were lawfully entitled to it, their ministry could benefit from it, and they were unconstitutionally and unlawfully denied access to it. So in any just world they should be there," Schmid said.

Warren said in her statement that the university system will continue to defend itself in any further proceedings.

"We welcome the court's decision, which is yet another affirmation of the integrity of our process and our continued commitment to acting in the best interests of our public institutions and the tuition and taxpayers of Maine," she said.

Copy the Story Link
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP)  A federal judge has tossed out a lawsuit aimed at making Arkansas' GOP primary open only to registered Republicans.

U.S. District Judge Brian Miller on Monday granted the motion to dismiss the lawsuit that had been filed by about two dozen of the delegates from the state Republican Party's convention last year.

The lawsuit stemmed from delegates at the state Republican Party convention voting to allow only registered GOP voters to participate in the partys primary. The partys executive committee in July nullified that proposal and several other actions by the convention, saying proper steps werent taken to consider them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Although plaintiffs positions are understandable, their claims must be dismissed because federal court is not the appropriate forum to resolve their dispute, Miller wrote in the seven-page order.

Voters in Arkansas arent required to choose a party when they register, and the majority of voters dont pick Republican or Democratic.

Attorney General Tim Griffin, whose office represented the state in the case, said he appreciated the judge dismissing the case.

This dispute was settled within the Republican Party of Arkansas months ago, Griffin said in a statement. "It never made sense for the state to be sued over it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lawsuit had named the Arkansas Republican Party chairman, the secretary of state and members of the state board of election commissioners as defendants.

Jennifer Lancaster, the lead plaintiff in the case, said she and the other delegates were "prayerfully and strategically" considering their next steps.

We stood up to protect the Republican Party from being hijacked by Democrats voting in our primaries, Lancaster said in a statement. We believe that Republican nominees should be chosen by Republican voters. Thats not radical  its foundational.
MILAN, Italy, May 7. New and emerging technologies, driven by private sector innovation, are playing a transformative role in the future of energy generation, distribution, and storage, said Bhargav Dasgupta, ADB Vice-President for Market Solidarity, during the closing session of the 58th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Trends special correspondent reports from Milan.

Dasgupta noted that alongside the rapid development of renewables, digital technologies are becoming central to reshaping energy systems globally.

We talked about digital transformation of energy systems. From smart grids to AI to demand management to cloud storage  and even the idea of distributed energy storage  there are a lot of technologies that are emerging which are very, very exciting, he said.

He pointed to the high initial cost of some of these innovations, but stressed their potential for rapid cost reduction with scaling.

Some of these technologies are new and initially expensive. But the beauty is, as we get more scale, the cost drops dramatically, Dasgupta noted. India may need some support at the start, but as we scale these up, they become commercially viable.

According to Dasgupta, the private sector brings critical value to these transitions beyond financing.

What the private sector brings in is not just capital, but innovation. And really three keys: expertise, efficiency, and execution, he emphasized.

He added that ADBs work on market development in these areas is showing strong momentum, and that further collaboration with the private sector will be crucial in accelerating progress.

The work that we are doing collectively in terms of market development is extremely positive. And thats something that we are very keen to see how we progress, he said.
WASHINGTON (AP)  A federal judge on Tuesday ordered the Education Department to undo a freeze on the last of the U.S. relief money given to schools to help students recover academically from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The federal government provided $189 billion in aid money for schools during the crisis, giving them broad latitude in how to spend it.

Nearly all that money had been spent, but some school districts received deadline extensions that gave them additional time to use it. Districts spent it on things like after-school tutoring, summer school, social workers, college counselors, library books and renovations to make school buildings safer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On March 28, Education Secretary Linda McMahon sent a letter to school officials saying she had moved the deadline up  to that very day. She said the department would consider releasing some funds, but only on a project-by-project basis.

Extending deadlines for COVID-related grants, which are in fact taxpayer funds, years after the COVID pandemic ended is not consistent with the Departments priorities, McMahon said.

Officials in sixteen states and the District of Columbia sued in response, leading to Tuesdays order from U.S. District Judge Edgardo Ramos in New York City.

Since taking office in January, President Donald Trump has unilaterally cut education funding and downsized the Education Department, leading to numerous legal challenges. The Trump administration also cut teacher-training programs that helped rural schools combat educator shortages and has threatened to withhold funding from schools with diversity, equity and inclusion programs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

___

The Associated Press education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.
A federal judge has ruled that a Georgetown scholars petition challenging the constitutionality of his arrest should be heard in Virginia, denying the Trump administrations request to move the case to Texas.

U.S. District Judge Patricia Tolliver Giles said she would hear arguments in mid-May on whether Badar Khan Suri should be returned to Virginia while his deportation case proceeds in Texas, where he's now detained. His next hearing in the immigration case is in June.

The judge's late Tuesday memo says that by swiftly moving Khan Suri from Virginia to Louisiana and then Texas within days of his arrest, the government appeared to be trying to thwart his lawyers' efforts to challenge his detention in the jurisdiction where it happened.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Khan Suris lawyers went to court the day after masked, plain-clothed officers arrested him on the evening of March 17 outside his apartment complex in Arlington, Virginia. Officials said his visa was revoked because of his social media posts and his wifes connection to Gaza as a Palestinian American. They accused him of supporting Hamas, which the U.S. has designated as a terrorist organization.

By the time Khan Suri's petition was filed, authorities had already put him on a plane to Louisiana without allowing him to update his family or lawyer, Khan Suri's attorneys said. A few days later, he was moved again to Texas.

This atypical movement would make it difficult for any diligent lawyers filings to catch up to their clients location, and followed a pattern now evident in multiple efforts to deport students based on their speech, Giles wrote.

The judge noted that Columbia University scholar Mahmoud Khalil, a legal U.S. resident with no criminal record who was detained in March over his participation in pro-Palestinian demonstrations was moved within 48 hours of his arrest in Manhattan through lockups in New York, New Jersey, Texas and, then, Louisiana.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She also cited the case of Rumeysa Ozturk, a Tufts University student who was arrested in a Boston suburb, driven New Hampshire and then Vermont, and then flown to a detention center in Basile, Louisiana. A federal appeals court on Wednesday ordered ICE to return Ozturk to Vermont.

Each scholar was arrested on different days and in different regions, Giles wrote. What is similar? ... the Government attempted to move each outside of their jurisdictions to Louisiana or Texas.

Unlike the federal court in Alexandria, Virginia, the courts in Texas and western Louisiana are dominated by Republican-appointed judges, and any appeals go to the reliably conservative 5th Circuit, where 12 of the 17 full-time appellate judges were appointed by Republican presidents, including six by President Donald Trump.

Khan Suri came from India to the U.S. in 2022 on a J-1 visa. A visiting scholar and postdoctoral fellow at Georgetown, he taught a course on majority and minority human rights in South Asia, and lived with his wife, who is a U.S. citizen, and three children.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

U.S. attorneys argued that Khan Suri was quickly moved because a facility in Farmville, Virginia, was overcrowded and a nearby detention center in Caroline County had no available beds and only had limited emergency bedspace.

But the judge observed that for weeks thereafter, Khan Suri had to sleep on a plastic cot on the floor of an overcrowded detention center in Texas, and that according to his attorneys, he now sleeps on a bed in an overcrowded dormitory with about 50 other people. The government's representations, she wrote, "are plainly inconsistent and are further undermined by the fact that Prairieland Detention Center, where Petitioner (Khan Suri) is currently held, is overcrowded.
BOSTON (SHNS)  Education was the lifeline towards stability and opportunity for Emily Romero Gonzalez, who moved to the U.S. at the age of three.

I grew up undocumented, and knew from a young age that I was different from other students. I couldnt travel to visit my family in Peru, I didnt qualify for certain programs that my peers did, my parents and I couldnt own our own home, and I was constantly visiting lawyers offices, Romero Gonzalez, now an education advocate at Massachusetts Advocates for Children, recalled.

But the one thing I knew that I had access to, no matter what, was school, was an education, she added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gonzalez and other education, immigrant and disability advocates are flagging urgent concerns about federal threats to education rights for immigrant and disabled students.

Immigrant parents, attorneys and teachers told legislators at a hearing Tuesday that passing a bill codifying federal student protections into state law would help quell fears in immigrant and disability communities under the Trump administration, which has cracked down on its enforcement of illegal immigration and may look to adjust disability services policy since President Donald Trump took office in January.

The Sen. Pavel Payano and Rep. Frank Moran bill (S 436 / H 650) would not add new legal protections, but would codify four different protections related to English Language Learners, immigrant students and students with disabilities established by federal statutes and guidance.

One in eight Massachusetts students is an English Language Learner, and one in six Massachusetts students has a disability, Payano said. Federal rollbacks threaten the rights that protect these children. By codifying these rights into state law, we ensure that Massachusetts continues to uphold equity and education, no matter what.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bill would codify the right to public education for students regardless of their documentation status and codify provisions in special education law protecting students with disabilities from inequitable school suspensions or expulsions directly related to their disabilities. It would also codify federal guidance addressing needs of English Language learners with disabilities, along with those ensuring interpreters are provided by schools and are not just bilingual, but trained and qualified.

Chief Deputy Attorney General Abby Taylor called on the state to codify the protections, harkening back to when Massachusetts codified the right to abortion five years ago, before the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.

In 2020, more than a year before the Supreme Court overturned 50 years of legal precedent when it issued the Dobbs decision, the Massachusetts Legislature took action, had the foresight, to pass the Roe Act and to codify abortion rights into statute, Taylor said.

Today, we find ourselves in a similar situation with a federal government that is hostile to civil rights and to longstanding protections for our students, she continued.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Taylor said the AGs office continues to uphold the federal laws still in place, but the office is flooded with concerns, especially in the context of changes and cuts to the Department of Education, some of which could impact student civil rights. President Donald Trump has filed an executive order to close the Department of Education and return authority back to the states, which he said would provide children and their families the opportunity to escape a system that is failing them.

There has been discussion among Massachusetts elected officials, Attorney General Andrea Campbell included, about whether the United States is facing a constitutional crisis under the Trump administration.

We drafted it out of concern based on what we were hearing during the election, and then given the outcome of the election, our concerns have only, I think, deepened since the inauguration, said Diana Santiago, legal director at Massachusetts Advocates for Children.

Representatives from groups like nonprofit Reimagining Migration and Mass. Advocates for Children spoke about threats specifically to Plyler v. Doe, the landmark 1982 U.S. Supreme Court case establishing that states must provide free K-12 education to all students, regardless of their immigration status. In New Jersey, Oklahoma and Texas, action challenging free public education for undocumented students has been recently proposed, and in Tennessee, recent action has been paused. The state of California has codified Doe.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Numerous mothers of ELL students also spoke in Spanish, with English translators, about the aspect of the bill that would bolster translation services. Mothers talked about their experiences being unable to participate in their childrens educations, or speak with their teachers, because of a lack of available and adequate translation services. Some of the mothers have students in Boston Public Schools, which states that it enrolls over 17,000 English Learner students, 31% of the districts total student population.

Jessica Lander, the 2023 Massachusetts history teacher of the year, teaches immigrant students and spoke about the lack of access to translators for both teachers and parents.

I see the ways in which our immigrant origin parents are excluded from [Individualized Education Program] meetings, which is absolutely not okay. And so ensuring that we have translators there, available, easily accessible, is really essential to ensuring equal access to education for our kids, Lander said.

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.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
The U.S. Department of Justice said cash and drugs, pictured here, were seized in Santa Fe and Albuquerque New Mexico in the countrys largest ever fentanyl bust in April, 2025 (Courtesy U.S. District Attorneys Office, District of New Mexico)

The U.S. government on Tuesday announced drug trafficking and conspiracy charges against 17 people in what U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi is calling the largest fentanyl bust in our nations history.

At a news conference in Washington D.C., U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico Ryan Ellison said prosecutors have filed conspiracy, illicit fentanyl distribution, firearms and immigration charges as a result of the bust.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He also said the alleged drug trafficking organization is one of the largest and most dangerous fentanyl operations in United States history  spanning New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada and Utah  and distributes drugs throughout the western United States.

We will not tolerate those who profit from poisoning American citizens, Ellison said.

Bondi said the organization is affiliated with the Sinaloa Cartel operating out of Mexico, and when authorities arrested its alleged leader, Heriberto Salazar Amaya, they found millions of dollars in cash and vehicles. She said he insulated himself from the drugs, which agents found in Albuquerque, Phoenix and Utah.

Asked for specifics on how the defendants were captured, Bondi said the investigation is ongoing and she wont reveal police sources or methods.

The U.S. Department of Justice said cash and drugs, pictured here, were seized in Santa Fe, New Mexico in the countrys largest ever fentanyl bust in April, 2025 (Courtesy U.S. District Attorneys Office, District of New Mexico)

DEA Acting Administrator Robert Murphy noted that the organizations drug distribution had probably caused someone to die.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Overall, authorities seized 11.5 kilograms of fentanyl powder; approximately $4.4 million in cash; approximately 79 pounds of methamphetamine; approximately 7.5 kilograms of cocaine; approximately 4.5 kilograms of heroin; approximately 41 firearms; and approximately 4.1 million fentanyl pills, according to court records.

Ellison said in Albuquerque alone, police found 2.7 million fentanyl pills; 11.5 kilograms of concentrated fentanyl powder; seven pounds of methamphetamine; multiple kilograms of heroin and cocaine; 41 firearms; more than $600,000 in cash and numerous luxury vehicles.

In Layton, Utah, authorities seized approximately $780,000 and a Dodge TRX Mammoth valued at approximately $150,000, according to a news release.

When we catch you  all of these individuals, if convicted, we will put you behind bars, Bondi said. There will be no negotiating, and we will lock you up for as long as humanly possible. We will not negotiate with those who are killing our family members including brothers, sisters, daughters, sons, parents, friends.

DOJ prosecuting, not deporting, defendants who arent citizens

Bondi said six of the people charged are living in the U.S. unlawfully. A detention order for Lopez-Rubio indicates that he will be held until trial, in part, because he lacks legal status in the U.S. and is subject to removal or deportation after any prison sentence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When asked how shes deciding whether to prosecute or deport any defendants who lack U.S. citizenship, Bondi said its based on their potential prison sentences, if theyre convicted.

I want them to stay in our prisons as long as possible, Bondi said. Theres a very big risk  we all know  releasing someone, especially to Mexico. Sending them back to Mexico, who knows, they could attempt to get through our borders. Not under Donald Trump, I doubt. But theyre also part of a major drug trafficking ring in Mexico, so sending them back to Mexico to continue on with their drug business isnt going to happen under this administration.

Source New Mexico is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Source New Mexico maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Julia Goldberg for questions: info@sourcenm.com.
NORTHEAST TENNESSEE (WJHL)  14 counties in East Tennessee have been awarded $2 million in state funds for Hurricane Helene repairs.

According to a news release from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the funds will go towards emergency and permanent work to repair bridges, restore utilities, remove debris and take measures to further protect Helene-impacted counties.

Tennessee overhauls terms governing Ballad Health

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The following community projects will receive funds through FEMAs Public Assistance program:

Carter County First Utility District  $4,966 for emergency protective measures

Hawkins County Emergency Communications District  $4,632 for emergency protective measures

Johnson County $624,640 for Morefield Bridge repairs $617,344 for Furnace Creek Bridge repairs $12,875 for Brownlow Utility District meter repairs

Unicoi County Gas Utility District  $27,949 for emergency protective measures, $39,335 for restoring gas service to residential customers Sheriffs Office  $124,760 for emergency protective measures

Washington County Johnson City Energy Authority  $227,806 for emergency protective measures Emergency Communications District  $6,041 for emergency protective measures

Sevier County $34,524 for City of Pigeon Forge $11,154 for Sevier County Utility District $196,489 for the county government , all for emergency protective measures



The Public Assistance program reimburses communities for emergency work to save lives and protect property; remove debris; and repair roads, bridges, public buildings, utilities and parks, FEMA said in a news release. Because this is a cost-sharing program, FEMA reimburses state applicants 75% of eligible costs. The remaining 25% represents nonfederal funds.

FEMAs share for this project is $83,731, and the nonfederal share is $27,910.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Senate President Bill Ferguson (D-Baltimore City) told reporters that the possibility of a special session later this year may be less likely than a month ago but is "not off the table." (Photo by Bryan P. Sears/Maryland Matters)

Maryland could see another $430 million in targeted cuts as part of President Donald Trumps so-called skinny budget proposal, Senate President Bill Ferguson said Tuesday.

Ferguson, meeting with reporters, said a new analysis of the federal spending proposal includes hundreds of millions in reductions to low-income housing and energy assistance programs. This is on top of expected cuts to Medicaid.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trumps proposed reductions are in addition to what Ferguson and others worry will be seismic changes to Medicaid spending and cost-sharing with the state. The ongoing uncertainty about continued federal budget and employee cuts has done little to ease the concerns about how Maryland will be affected.

I would say the health care system cuts are the ones that are the most concerning, Ferguson said. The $430 million will be very painful, but we can weather that storm in the short term, and that doesnt necessarily push us immediately into a special session.

I would say what happens to get to the bigger health care cuts is where thats going to be the big lever  the decision point for us to come back, I think, because it will have such a disruptive impact on our entire health care system, he said.

The Senate leader also tried to ease concerns that lawmakers will need to return later this year to address the impact of additional deep federal cuts.

Theres a lot of factors here, of things that could drive a decision to come back, Ferguson said. And so right now, I would say its more unlikely than likely, but it  is not off the table anyway.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ferguson cited a new review of Trumps budget proposal by the Department of Legislative Services. It said that included in the new round of proposed cuts is:

$148 million in funding for Section 8 housing programs.

$94 million from energy and heating assistance programs for low-income families.

$61 million from a revolving loan program for clean water and drinking water.

Ferguson later added that cuts to the AmeriCorps program troubled him.

Ferguson described the firings as a destruction of American values that are volunteerism and service that are core to the American spirit. And I think cuts to AmeriCorps are just a symbol of everything that is wrong moving forward.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Roughly 250 people in the program in Maryland were fired.

Were working on what we can do about that, Ferguson said.

The Senate leader is holding a news conference in Baltimore Thursday related to the AmeriCorps firings.

Gov. Wes Moore (D) and legislative leaders have been bracing for a wave of additional federal budget cuts by the Trump administration.

First, the House and Senate passed a compromise budget package that included $1.6 billion in new taxes and fees. They also shored up the budget with cuts and cost shifts to local governments of about $2 billion.

House Republicans Monday called on Moore to veto four bills that raise fees, a request that drew a sharp retort from Ferguson.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The beauty of not being in charge is that you dont have any accountability for actually governing, Ferguson said.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

Republicans in the House and Senate comprise about 30% of their respective chambers.

None of us wanted to do any of the taxes or fees. Right? Nobody wants to make those choices, Ferguson said. But we have responsibilities to maintain our commitments, to invest in Maryland, to make sure that we are protecting the most vulnerable amongst us. And so, I imagine our good friends on the other side are going to make light of some of the tough choices that were made.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I get it, its politics, and people want attention. Its a frustrating time for everyone, he said. But I think given the circumstances, we made the most balanced and fair decisions to balance the budget in the ways that dont have an outsized negative impact on specific individuals and allow us to protect the most vulnerable.

Ferguson attempted to foreclose the idea of more tax increases next year.

I dont foresee that as even a remote possibility, Ferguson said. I think the challenge with coming back is that, if it is necessary, its because were making even harder decisions about what more to cut.

The budget moves this year erased a projected $3 billion fiscal 2026 budget gap. Lawmaker said they also shrank a similar projected deficit for fiscal 2027 from about $3 billion to an estimated $300 million.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Those projections do not consider other cuts that Trump could impose.

The legislature created a joint committee to monitor real and proposed cuts and how they might affect Maryland. That panel will meet in the near future, Ferguson said.

We want to make sure that we have enough substance and real clarity, as much clarity as can be obtained before we post one of those hearings, Ferguson said. We dont want to just meet for the purposes of meeting. We want to make sure that its kind of giving us a better insight into where things stand.

The committee will also likely guide Ferguson and House Speaker Adrienne Jones on any decision to bring the 188-member legislature back to Annapolis before January 2026.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

So, I think well have a better idea of what a special session looks like when we start to pull those joint hearings together, Ferguson said. Its really tough to say until the until Congress moves on a budget. So, we have ideas, but we dont know the answer.

Earlier this year, Moodys  one of three key bond rating agencies  said Maryland faces the most risk among states from those looming cuts and firings.

As many as 109,000 Maryland residents could be thrown off Medicaid, according to one recent estimate.

Ferguson said Tuesday that reductions needed to pay for Trumps tax cut proposal would require significant cuts to Medicaid. Ferguson said changing how those costs are shared to a 50-50 split with the federal government could require the state to come up with an additional $1 billion or release 300,000 people from their secured health insurance, so they would be uninsured.
Pennsylvania Democratic Senator John Fetterman called a New York Magazine report regarding his health a hit piece, but wouldnt say if hes taking his medications, one of the claims made against him in the article.

It's a one-source story, with a couple of anonymous sources, hit piece from a very left publication. There's really nothing more to say about that, he told NBC News.

Asked if he was taking his medications, Fetterman said, Again, a hit piece, anonymous sources.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The senator has rejected allegations that health issues make him unfit to serve in the upper chamber, telling CNN that he would serve out his term in office.

Speaking to the network from his Senate office, Fetterman talked about his depression treatment, saying that hes adhering to a strict program put together by his doctors.

He dismissed claims from the New York Magazine report that he has been reckless and erratic. In comments to CNN, he said, Its a one-source hit piece, and it involved maybe two or three and anonymous disgruntled staffers saying just absolute false things.

Fetterman has previously been open about being treated for clinical depression and how his 2022 Senate race negatively impacted his mental health.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

New York Magazine reported that former Fetterman Chief of Staff Adam Jentleson and ex-staffers said the senator has become almost impossible to work for.

John Fetterman speaks to reporters on February 12. He has rejected allegations of erratic and reckless behavior following a bombshell report in New York Magazine (Getty Images)

In May 2024, Jentleson sent a 1,600-word email to the medical director at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center who had overseen Fettermans care after he was admitted in 2023.

I think John is on a bad trajectory and Im really worried about him, he wrote, according to the magazine. He added that if there was no change, he was worried Fetterman wont be with us for much longer.

We do not know if he is taking his meds and his behavior frequently suggests he is not, Jentleson went on.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We often see the kind of warning signs we discussed, he told the medical director. Conspiratorial thinking; megalomania (for example, he claims to be the most knowledgeable source on Israel and Gaza around but his sources are just what he reads in the news  he declines most briefings and never reads memos); high highs and low lows; long, rambling, repetitive and self centered monologues; lying in ways that are painfully, awkwardly obvious to everyone in the room.

Jentleson said Fetterman was avoiding regular check-ins advised by his physicians.

Fetterman grew catatonic during a meeting with former Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown before he was admitted to Walter Reed in 2023, according to the magazine.

He could barely string two sentences together, talking so quietly that everyone in the room had to strain to hear him. Fetterman then stood up and began walking around the office in tight loops, New York Magazine Washington correspondent Ben Terris writes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This comes amid significant interest in challenging the centrist senator in a primary, and with some Democrats advocating for increased medical transparency following former President Joe Bidens departure from the 2024 presidential race amid questions about his fitness to serve.

Fetterman said a senior former staffer had a weird grudge against him (AFP via Getty Images)

Some political commentators have called on the senator to resign.

Fetterman said he has no other mental health problems other than those he has previously shared publicly, saying that its outrageous to suggest that he does.

My doctors have confirmed that that is not the case, he told CNN.

Ive been very front and center about my  depression, absolutely none of these other things, and its like so someone that was trying to accumulate my medical records and leak those things thats part of this weird grudge for this hit piece, he added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fetterman checked himself into Walter Reed in 2023 to be treated for clinical depression. The year before, he suffered a stroke while running for Senate.

The New York Magazine report outlined allegations, both on the record and anonymous, that Fetterman may not be taking his medications, claims he has rejected.

The senator said his doctors believe hes great, adding that hes been attending regular check-ins and adhering to his wellness program.

Fetterman and his wife Gisele (AFP via Getty Images)

Its incredibly invasive. And why are people talking about anyones personal medical things? Its that, you know, I think most people would agree thats really, really invasive, said Fetterman.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Jentleson told New York Magazine that he was taking his concerns public out of fear for Fettermans health and for his staff. On Tuesday, Fetterman told CNN that Jentleson has a weird grudge.

If youre really concerned about someone, you could say, Hey, lets sit down. Can we talk? Its not  like going to the media, he told the network.

I stand by what I said, and I hope he gets the help he needs, Jentleson told CNN.

The Independent has reached out to Fettermans office for comment.
Sen. John Fetterman on Tuesday denied alarming allegations from those close to him that his mental health has diminished, and said he would not resign.

Current and former staffers made detailed claims about the Pennsylvania Democrat to New York Magazine over the weekend, including that he had become erratic, manic and exhibited paranoia following his May 2022 stroke.

In a CNN interview Tuesday afternoon, Fetterman called the report a hit piece, said he is following prescribed medical guidance, denied driving recklessly, and vowed to stay in office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its a one-source hit piece, and it involved maybe two or three and anonymous disgruntled staffers saying just absolute false things, he said.

The senator denied being off his medications, and said he has been adhering to his doctors advice.

Its incredibly invasive, Fetterman said of suggestions otherwise. And why are people talking about anyones personal medical things? Its that, you know, I think most people would agree thats really, really invasive.

Fettermans former chief of staff, Adam Jentleson, had written a May 2024 letter about his then-boss to the medical director of the traumatic brain injury and neuropsychiatry unit at Walter Reed Medical Hospital, where Fetterman had been treated for depression in early 2023.

Sen. John Fetterman / Elizabeth Frantz / REUTERS

I think John is on a bad trajectory, and Im really worried about him, Jentleson wrote, according to the report, adding that he wont be with us for much longer if he didnt change.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We do not know if he is taking his meds and his behavior frequently suggests he is not, Jentleson added.

Fetterman was prescribed medication for depression, but would say at times that he felt so great that he didnt need it, according to New York.

Jentleson also worried about risky behavior, like the senator driving recklessly while reading and using FaceTime.

Fetterman got into a two-car wreck in Maryland last June, with police saying he was speeding and at fault.

The New York Magazine piece quotes an officer telling a Fetterman staffer over the phone about what had transpired: Its a miracle no one died.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fetterman told CNN that his former chief of staff was holding a weird grudge.

If youre really concerned about someone, you could say, hey, lets sit down. Can we talk? Its not  like going to the media, he said.

Jentleson told CNN that that he is standing by what he had said, adding of Fetterman: I hope he gets the help he needs.

Fetterman said of course he intends on being a senator for the remainder of his term, which expires in 2028. When it comes to a potential reelection campaign that year, he said, Who knows whats going to happen in 28.
Kazakhstan explores building energy optimization with Singaporean firm

Photo: Ministry of Industry and Construction of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Azamat Panbayev, Chairman of the Committee for Industry under Kazakhstans Ministry of Industry and Construction, met with Robin Thomas, Chairman of Singapore-based Carbonzeroed, to discuss collaboration on energy-efficient building technologies. The meeting focused on a potential non-commercial pilot project in a Kazakh public school to test software aimed at reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. Both parties emphasized the value of sustainable solutions and expressed interest in expanding cooperation.

Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register
By Wa Lone, Poppy McPherson and Shoon Naing

(Reuters) - Burmese academic Sophia Htwe spent hours desperately trying to call home from Australia after the 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck her hometown in Myanmar in late March, learning that a childhood friend had been trapped in the rubble.

Friends from the central-northwestern region of Sagaing told her that she had been freed but died from her injuries after receiving no medical treatment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"That just really broke me... This is actually the failure of the military junta and the military coup," she said, referring to the junta's attacks on healthcare since seizing power in February 2021.

The earthquake, which killed more than 3,700 people and injured 5,000, quickly overwhelmed a severely depleted health system in which the number of doctors and nurses had fallen dramatically under military rule, according to World Health Organization figures.

Many blame the situation on attacks on healthcare facilities as the military administration sought to root out opponents to its rule, after medics took a prominent role in the anti-junta movement that emerged after the coup.

That meant many victims of the earthquake went without immediate medical attention or had to wait a long time to receive the care they needed, according to two doctors who worked in the quake zone, two opposition activists and two human rights groups monitoring the response to the disaster.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rights groups Human Rights Watch and Physicians for Human Rights said doctors had described medicine and staff shortages and patients whose wounds had rotted in the absence of medical care. In a joint statement on April 29 they said the military's "years of unlawful attacks on healthcare facilities and workers" had severely hindered the emergency response.

The situation was compounded, they said, because some medical workers were too afraid of arrest to operate in junta-controlled areas or scared of passing through checkpoints to reach areas where they were needed. Some areas affected by the earthquake are contested by both rebel and junta forces and their affiliated militias, creating an environment of tension and suspicion.

Despite declaring a ceasefire on April 2, the junta has continued daily aerial attacks that have killed civilians, according to a Reuters analysis of data. More than 172 attacks have occurred since the ceasefire, 73 of them in areas devastated by the earthquake.

A spokesman for the junta did not respond to several requests for comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

WORKFORCE SHORTAGES

Before the coup, which toppled the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi and ignited a civil war, the number of healthcare workers was growing.

It surged 13.3% between 2016 and 2020 to about six doctors and nine nurses per 10,000 people, the WHO said.

That figure fell to 1.01 doctors and 1.96 nurses in 2022  far short of the recommended WHO minimum standard of 22.8 healthcare workers per 10,000  as medical workers joined the anti-junta Civil Disobedience Movement, refusing to work for government-run clinics.

According to Insecurity Insight, a Swiss non-governmental organisation, that tracks attacks on healthcare across the world. Soldiers have killed at least 74 health workers, attacked at least 263 health facilities, and arrested and prosecuted more than 800 since the coup.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While some who left have since returned to work, the shortage of health workers remains "very serious", said Dr Thushara Fernando, the WHO's Myanmar representative.

In January this year, junta leader Min Aung Hlaing acknowledged in state media that some hospitals did not have a single doctor.

Non-government medical facilities were "severely restricted", the WHO said, by a lack of skilled health workers and difficulties imposed by the junta in importing medical supplies - restrictions that have created a shortage of life-saving medicines.

Before the quake, the military shut at least eight private hospitals in Mandalay, one of the cities devastated by the disaster, according to the National Unity Government, a parallel civilian administration, while the quake destroyed at least five health facilities and partially damaged 61, according to the WHO.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Healthcare workers aligned with the opposition are providing lifesaving care through underground networks, but "they are operating with extremely limited resources, and their safety remains a serious concern," said an NUG official who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the situation.

The junta has detained doctors aligned with the opposition, which it characterises as "terrorists".

The two doctors who travelled to the earthquake zone and asked not to be named for fear of retribution also described manpower problems.

One said medics treating quake victims lacked triage expertise because the senior doctors who once led training had been imprisoned or feared arrest if they travelled to the disaster zone.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The other said people with chronic illnesses had been unable to access vital medications, and quake survivors were suffering from diarrhoea, skin-related diseases and heat-stroke as temperatures climb to about 40 degrees Celsius (104F).

"During the earthquake, people didnt receive the immediate aid they desperately needed," he said, adding that authorities frequently questioned people helping survivors.

UNDERGROUND RESPONSE

The military, which controls most but not all of the areas worst hit by the quake, has not eased its communications bans or stringent customs rules since the disaster happened, said James Rodehaver, Myanmar head for the United Nations Office on Human Rights.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said a requirement by the junta that all organisations working on earthquake relief register with authorities had driven some Burmese humanitarian responders underground, while there was no evidence the military  fighting across multiple frontlines  was deploying troops to help deliver aid.

In 2022, state media reported the junta diverted funds from the natural disaster management budget to provide loans in a bid to boost the sluggish economy, a move Win Myat Aye, the top official for disaster management under the former civilian government, says left a shortage of emergency supplies, logistical support, and recovery programmes.

In Sagaing, Nyi Nyi Tin, whose home was damaged by the quake, said there was no official support beyond an offer of about $61 to the families of the dead and some compensation for the injured.

As the monsoon rains loom, tens of thousands are still living in makeshift tents and the WHO says it fears the spread of communicable diseases.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In comparison with massive community responses to past disasters, including the COVID-19 pandemic, there were only small teams of people helping and little cooperation between civil society and authorities, Nyi Nyi Tin said.

"That sense of unity is gone. I think it's because people are afraid," he said.

(Reporting by Wa Lone, Poppy McPherson, and Shoon Naing. Writing by Poppy McPherson; Editing by Kate Mayberry)
The time has come. Travelers flying within the U.S. must have a state-issued ID that is Real ID compliant.

The requirement went into effect on Wednesday.

If you have a Georgia drivers license and see the star in the upper right-hand corner, then you are good.

But some people at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport still had questions on Wednesday.

Channel 2s Richard Elliot spoke with Simone Reid, who was trying to board a flight back home to Tampa.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She hadnt heard that Wednesday was the first day you needed to have a Real ID-compliant form of identification to fly or face additional security screenings, meaning more delays.

TRENDING STORIES:

Really? I hadnt heard that, Reid said.

TSA spokesman Robert Spinden told Elliot theyd been working with Hartsfield-Jackson and other U.S. airports for weeks to get ready for Day One, and said it went off without a hitch.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We developed a very detailed operational plan in advance of this day, and as you can see, its working very well, Spinden said.

TSA agent Alexis Pickeral thinks so, too.

She worked the initial security screening, and most people got through without a problem until she realized this woman did not have a Real ID-compliant drivers license.

That woman was facing more delays until she mentioned she had a passport with her.

You do have your passport? Perfect. Lets go ahead and use that as an additional form of ID, Pickeral told the woman.

She was non-compliant, but luckily, she had a passport, which she was able to scan her passport and she was able to go through without additional screening, Pickeral said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bottom line, if you have a Georgia drivers license, youre probably OK.

If you dont and arent sure about Real ID, you can still board, but will need to get to the airport a little earlier just in case.
A 63-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of multiple crimes Monday afternoon, including four counts of assault, following a fight with a UPS store employee in Yelm, Superior Court records show.

Around noon Monday, Yelm police were dispatched to the 1200 block of Yelm Avenue East where they found several people standing outside the store.

Two store employees, a man and woman, explained what happened, according to the court records.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The 63-year-old male customer allegedly became irate when he learned he was going to be charged a $1.37 fee for printing a return shipping label.

When the woman behind the counter handed the man his receipt, he allegedly slapped her hand.

A third-party witness described the strike of her hand as a definite smack that was more than a gentle tap, the court records read.

The man then exited the store, but was followed by the male employee, who intended to photograph his vehicle license plate, according to the court records.

The customer then grabbed the employees iPhone and allegedly threw it across the parking lot. That was followed by a fistfight between the two men.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The (male employee) did not remember who threw the first punch, but did remember being tackled to the ground and sustaining injuries, the court records read.

Multiple third parties intervened between the two men to separate them. The suspect reportedly went after the (male employee) again before getting into his vehicle.

Then, the following happened:

(The male and female employees) were directly behind the vehicle at this point, the court records read. The witness reported that the driver put the vehicle into reverse and rapidly backed up. (The female employee) had her back to the vehicle and (the male employee) was facing it. (The male employee) attempted to grab (the female employee) to pull her out of the way of the vehicle, but both of them were struck, along with another third party. (The female employee) was thrown by the vehicle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Witnesses say the customer allegedly backed into them twice before driving away, according to the court records. The female employee was treated for back pain at the scene, the court records read.

The customer was arrested at his home.

(He) confirmed that he had gone to the UPS store to attempt to return a package, and the UPS store employee had not allowed him to. He said that he grabbed a receipt out of the employees hand and attempted to leave the store, and a mob followed him, claiming he had assaulted the UPS employee.

(The man) said that he got into his vehicle and a male subject started banging on his window. (The man) said he backed out of the parking space slowly, specifically attempting to not hit anyone, and at one point stopped briefly before leaving the scene and driving home.

The customer was arrested on suspicion of second-degree malicious mischief, hit and run with injury, two counts of second-degree assault, two counts of fourth-degree assault and reckless driving.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  An F/A-18 fighter jet landing on the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier in the Red Sea went overboard, forcing its two pilots to eject, a defense official told The Associated Press on Wednesday.

The incident Tuesday marks the latest mishap to mar the deployment of the Truman, which has been essential in the airstrike campaign by the United States against Yemen's Houthi rebels.

On Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump and Oman's foreign minister both said that a ceasefire had been reached with the Houthis, who would no longer target ships in the Red Sea corridor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A Houthi spokesman early Thursday sought to portray the ceasefire as a victory for the rebels, describing it as America stopping aggression in exchange for stopping attacks." The rebels claimed a drone attack on Israel on Wednesday, something acknowledged by the Israeli military without it being attributed to the rebels.

It is ridiculous for Washington to claim that Sanaa raised the flag of surrender, but this is not important," Hashem Sharaf al-Din said in a statement carried by the state-run SABA news agency. What is important is that Yemens victory represented a major shift in the balance of power in favor of Yemen, which was able to force America to halt its aggression and stop its attacks.

Meanwhile, the Houthis continue to assess the damage after daytime Israeli airstrikes targeted Yemen's rebel-held capital of Sanaa.

Landing goes wrong on carrier

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The F/A-18 Super Hornet landed on the Truman after a flight, but the arrestment failed, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to speak publicly about the incident now under investigation.

"Arrestment" refers to the hook system used by aircraft landing on carriers, which catches steel wire ropes on the flight deck. It remains unclear what part of the system failed.

The two pilots on board were later rescued by a helicopter and suffered minor injuries in the incident, the official added. No one on the flight deck was hurt.

CNN first reported on the incident.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tuesday's incident was the latest to see the Navy lose an F/A-18, which cost about $60 million. In April, another F/A-18 fighter jet slipped off the hangar deck of the Truman and fell into the Red Sea. The crew members who were in the pilot seat of the Super Hornet and on the small towing tractor both jumped away.

In December, the guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg mistakenly shot down an F/A-18 after ships earlier shot down multiple Houthi drones and an anti-ship cruise missile launched by the rebels. Both aviators in that incident also survived.

And in February, the Truman collided with a merchant vessel near Port Said, Egypt.

The Truman, based out of Norfolk, Virginia, has seen its deployment extended multiple times amid the Houthi airstrike campaign. It had been joined recently by the USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier operating out of the Arabian Sea.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell wrote on the social platform X that an investigation was underway and that this aircraft was not struck by the Houthis.

The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group remains fully mission-capable, he added.

Rebels survey Sanaa's devastated airport

The Israeli attack on Tuesday that targeted Sanaa International Airport devastated the airfield. Khaled al-Shaif, the head of the airport, told the Houthis' al-Masirah satellite news channel that the Israeli strike destroyed the airport's terminal and left craters in its runway.

Satellite images from Maxar Technologies showed craters and destroyed aircraft on the taxiways of the airfield.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At least six passenger planes were struck, including three belonging to Yemenia Airways, the country's flag-carrying airline, he said. That leaves the airline with only one functional aircraft, which was spared only because it had left earlier in the day on a flight to Amman, Jordan. He put overall damage there at $500 million.

With the damage, the airport was now out of service, al-Shaif said.

The International Committee of the Red Cross said the strikes on the airport, as well as earlier Israeli strikes on Hodeida's seaport, affected vital gateways for humanitarian aid and basic essentials such as food and medical supplies.

After more than a decade of conflict in Yemen, civilians and the infrastructure they rely on cannot endure any further strain, it added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Houthi attacks on shipping

The Houthis had been waging persistent missile and drone attacks against commercial and military ships in the region in what the groups leadership has described as an effort to end Israels offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

From November 2023 until January 2025, the Houthis targeted more than 100 merchant vessels with missiles and drones, sinking two of them and killing four sailors. That has greatly reduced the flow of trade through the Red Sea corridor, which typically sees $1 trillion of goods move through it annually.

The Houthis paused attacks in a self-imposed ceasefire until the U.S. launched a broad assault against the rebels in mid-March. Meanwhile, a wider, decadelong war in Yemen between the Houthis and the country's exiled government, backed by a Saudi-led coalition, remains in a statemate.
UPDATE @7:00 a.m.

The Red Cross is helping several people after an electrical fire forced them out of a Dayton duplex on Wednesday.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

As reported on News Center 7 Daybreak, Dayton firefighters responded at 4:52 a.m. to reports of a house fire on Fountain Avenue near Richmond Avenue.

TRENDING STORIES:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dayton fire chief Chris Kinzler told News Center 7 that firefighters found obvious arcing on the right side of the house when they arrived.

We had so much electrical arcing on the right side at the rear that we could not initially put water on it right away. So crews went right to work making sure everybody was evacuated, he said.

Video and photos showed several firefighters at the scene when our news crew arrived.

News Center 7s Xavier Hershovitz said he could smell a haze in the air when he arrived.

No injuries are reported.

Kinzler said the duplex can be salvaged.

We will update this developing story.

Photo from: Spencer Neuman/Staff

Photo from: Spencer Neuman/Staff

Photo from: Spencer Neuman/Staff

Photo from: Spencer Neuman/Staff

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Photo from: Spencer Neuman/Staff

Photo from: Spencer Neuman/Staff

Photo from: Spencer Neuman/Staff

Photo from: Spencer Neuman/Staff

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Photo from: Spencer Neuman/Staff

Photo from: Spencer Neuman/Staff

Photo from: Spencer Neuman/Staff

[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
Five Venezuelan opposition leaders who had been trapped inside the Argentinian Embassy in Caracas have been rescued and are now safely in the United States, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Wednesday night.

The U.S. welcomes the successful rescue of all hostages held by the Maduro regime at the Argentinian Embassy in Caracas, Rubio said in a statement on X. We extend our gratitude to all personnel involved in this operation and to our partners who assisted in securing the safe liberation of these Venezuelan heroes.

The rescued individualsMagalli Meda, Claudia Macero, Omar Gonzalez, Pedro Urruchurtu, and Humberto Villalobosare prominent collaborators of opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. They had sought asylum in the Argentinian Embassy residence in August 2024 amid escalating political persecution. The embassy, under Brazilian protection following Argentinas diplomatic expulsion from Venezuela, had become a flashpoint in the ongoing diplomatic crisis.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It remains unclear how the opposition figures managed to exit the embassy or whether their departure occurred with the tacit approval of Nicolas Maduros socialist government.

Machado, who is reportedly in hiding within Venezuela following a harsh crackdown on the opposition after the contested July presidential election, praised the rescue operation.

An impeccable and epic operation for the freedom of five Venezuelan heroes, she wrote on social media. My infinite recognition and gratitude to all who made it possible. Lets free each of our 900 heroes imprisoned by this tyranny, along with 30 million Venezuelans!

Tensions surrounding the embassy deepened after the Maduro government expelled Argentinas diplomatic corps last year and later revoked Brazils authorization to protect the site, accusing it of allowing terrorist activity on embassy grounds. Despite the revocation, Brazil continued to provide limited protection.

Prior to their extraction, the five opposition figures had made repeated public appeals to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, urging him to take swift action and facilitate their safe departure. In a joint letter published on social media, they criticized Brazils lack of action, arguing it contradicted its role as a defender of human rights and international diplomatic conventions.
MILAN, Italy, May 7. Uzbekistan presented its reform achievements and vision for regional cooperation during the Future Host Country Event held as part of the 58th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Milan, ahead of the 59th Annual Meeting set to take place in the historic city of Samarkand in 2026, Trends special correspondent reports.

Deputy Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Jamshid Khodjaev addressed the event, expressing gratitude to Italy for its warm hospitality and to ADB for the enduring partnership. He emphasized that Uzbekistans ongoing economic and social reforms aim to build a more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready nation.

I would like to express our sincere appreciation for the long-standing and fruitful partnership with the Asian Development Bank. It is a great honor to welcome you today to a very special moment for Uzbekistan. As we all know, the uncertainties in the world have become an integral part of our daily lives. The complex geopolitical situation, global economic instability, the scarcity of food and energy resources, poverty and environmental problems are becoming increasingly active. A quarter of the world's population is facing limitations in accessing clean drinking water, he said.

Khojaev noted that in recent years, the new Uzbekistan has rapidly implemented universal reforms and fundamental changes.

We attach a particular importance to the liberalization of the economy and the improvement of the living standards as well as the well-being of our people. Over the past period, the volume of our gross domestic product has doubled and for the first time exceeded $100 billion.

Uzbekistan has reduced poverty from 23% to 11% in just four years. This year, we aim to reduce it to 9% and halve it by 2030. At the same time, we are implementing a multidimensional poverty reduction program, which includes expanding access to quality education and medical services, improving housing conditions, strengthening social protection, and building the infrastructure networks in the most difficult areas, he said.

In conclusion, the deputy PM extended a warm invitation to attend the 59th Annual Meeting of the ADB Board of Governors, which will be held in Uzbekistan, in the historic city of Samarkand in 2026.

Samarkand, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It is a true jewel of the Silk Road, a crossroads of civilization, culture, and commerce of over two millennia. Renowned for its majestic architecture, vibrant traditions, and unmatched hospitality, Samarkand is a place where history and progress meet in harmony. President Mirziyoyev is really looking forward to welcome all the guests in Samarkand for the ADB Annual Meeting. And we look forward to welcoming you to this timeless city, where together we will shape the future of regional cooperation and sustainable development in Asia and the Pacific, he said.

Addressing the event, Masato Kanda, President of ADB, recalled that this is the second time for Uzbekistan to host the annual meeting since the meeting in Tashkent in 2010, which was pretty much successful.

And, of course, this is the first time to hold it in the city of Samarkand. And, as the Deputy Prime Minister rightly suggested, Samarkand is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities. We are pretty much excited to go there. Samarkand will make the perfect place to think about the future of humanity and also perfect place for strengthening our cooperation and collaboration. So, I'm very much looking forward to seeing you all in Samarkand, he said.
SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage)  It was the calm after the storm, in this case. The Concho valley getting a good soaking after an average of one to two inches of rain dumped down in the area in just a few hours, according to the San Angelo National Weather Service (SA NWS). The City of San Angelo received the brunt of the rain with an average of 2 to 3 inches.

The National Weather Services official rain total in San Angelo for overnight rainfall was 3.19 inches.

Which is more than double the old record by 1.5 inches set in 1926.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Elizabeth Todd pulled up to her job at Unlimited Air to a steady flow of fast-moving water.

Mind blown, the way the water is going across the road, its like a shock, she said. It flooded like this another time, Im not sure how many years ago, but I think this is worst. I dont think Ive ever seen it this bad. 

San Angelo Patrol Officer Che Gonzales tasked with making sure vehicles dont attempt to breach the water that covered the roadway.

So, it rained very heavily last night, he said. Unfortunately the roads and everything else dont irrigate nearly as well as they probably should.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The water so high, and moved so fast it looked like a river rushing across S. Jackson Street between Bryant Boulevard and Knickerbocker Road which prompted a water rescue, according to Gonzales.

A pick up truck drove through and got stuck, and the fire the department responded out because the Red Arroyo is flowing over, he said. The water was above their knee almost the thigh level once they will try to wade across.

Police used their vehicles as a roadblock until barricades were erected to discourage people from driving through the flood water.

Some drivers, about five miles away, on Armstrong Street decided to press their luck by ignoring the brightly colored traffic barrels and going around.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to Public Information Officer Sgt. John Bouligny with the San Angelo Police Department going around a blockade has consequences.

Driving past a normal barricade can be punishable by a fine, he said. So, you can get a ticket, however, if its for a water hazard that is actually a Class B misdemeanor, which means, either a warning or a trip to jail.

Going around a barricade can not only land you behind bars, it can cost you your life, something Todd said is something she cant wrap her head around.

I dont know what makes people think they can get through that, she said. Turn around dont drown.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to SAPD three water rescue calls to dispatch were executed due to the heavy rain which includes the one mentioned 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 ConchoValleyHomepage.com.
JORDAN, N.Y. (WSYR-TV)  Before anyone had time to react, the water was rushing. By 10 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, basements were underwater, roads were flooded and a recently restored piece of the Village of Jordans history was overtaken by the flash flooding.

Just after 9 p.m., Skaneateles Creek, located near Canal Park, water levels rose rapidly. An hour after a State Emergency was declared, the water started to engulf locals homes, where a few homes had water climb up from their basements to their first level.

The least anticipated zone was the Villages iconic Kissing Bridge, which was restored just over a year ago, purposely designed to withstand future flooding. But on Tuesday night, that height didnt stand a chance.

Latest local news

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We saw the water approaching the bottom of that and possibly over the decking, and it was very concerning, said the Village of Jordan Mayor Casey Brim.

The Mayor said he was also concerned about the landscaping that the village has put so much effort into.

I havent assessed the damage to the park from the flooding, but there are numerous flower beds our village workers work very hard to maintain, and I think those were underwater, said Mayor Brim.

After the storms heat, officials began observing the damage in the Village of Jordan. Longtime resident Pat Brynes is considering the cost of this storm damage.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its going to take a tremendous amount of money. In todays standard, to get that repaired, we dont have the means or money to restore it. So Im guessing it will be a whole engineers thing, said Brynes.

State Senator Rachel May and Congressman John Mannion have both reached out offering help, while residents and volunteers began the clean-up late this morning.

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 WSYR.
Florida will become the second state in the nation to prohibit fluoridation of public water supplies, reversing decades of public health policy in favor of a new mindset that discounts experts and embraces individual autonomy.

Its forced medication when theyre jamming fluoride. And they did it because if you have fluoride, itll help with dental. And Im not saying thats not true, but we have other ways where people can get access to fluoride, Gov. Ron DeSantis said Tuesday in Miami. When you do this in the water supply, youre taking away a choice of someone who may not want to have overexposure to fluoride.

The state House and Senate passed the fluoride ban last month. DeSantis traveled to Miami to announce hed sign the legislation, a decision that was expected, hours after the Miami-Dade County Commission overrode the county mayors veto of a measure putting an end to fluoridation of the countys water supply.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The statewide ban, once DeSantis signs Senate Bill 700 into law, would go into effect July 1.

For DeSantis, it is a return to his approach during the COVID pandemic, when he carved out a political brand for himself. As the pandemic wore on, he eased restrictions he initially imposed, challenged the public health establishment, and touted Florida as a place for people who wanted to flee public health restrictions in their home states.

DeSantis staff resurrected the slogan on Tuesday, placing a sign on the lectern where he spoke proclaiming Free State of Florida.

Public health

People with expertise in dentistry and public health, both practitioners who have experience treating public health and scientists who study public health  decried the pending enactment of the law as a move back in time that will degrade peoples health for years to come.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Youre going to increase the amount of dental disease because of the lack of fluoride in the water, said Dr. Bruce Tandy, of Delray Beach, who retired after 40 years and remains active in the field teaching dental students at Nova Southeastern University and helping with a Florida Dental Association that provides free dental care for people in need.

All my professional friends, we were just shaking our heads. This just doesnt make sense, Tandy said.

State Sen. Barbara Sharief, a Broward Democrat, an advanced practice registered nurse who also has a doctorate in nursing practice and founded a pediatric home health care company, unsuccessfully sought to convince her colleagues to vote against the measure last month.

Ive seen firsthand how critical fluoridation is to our childrens health. Im deeply concerned that three years from now well be right back here scrambling to reverse this damage as preventable dental diseases will surge in our child population, Sharief said during the Senate debate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When communities stop fluoridating, cavities increase (and) school absences due to dental pain increase, Sharief said.

Tandy said science overwhelmingly supports fluoridation in the water. Weve seen over the years its been called one of the great public health wins that weve accomplished in this country and around the world.

Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo, a DeSantis appointee, said science doesnt support fluoridation.

At the Miami event with the governor, he likened those who want to continue fluoridation to Linus, the Peanuts cartoon character who would never relinquish his security blanket.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This fluoridation is like, I think of Charlie Brown, Ladapo said. I cant remember his name, but the little guy holds his blanket, right? And I love it, hold your blanket. But unfortunately, hes a kid, but what we have instead, we have professionals, there are doctors, dentists, public health leaders who are holding on to fluoridation like that blanket, he said.

It doesnt matter what the evidence shows, right? Whatever the studies show about potential harms in children and pregnant women and who knows about the rest of us, theyre just holding on to it, Ladapo said. Its really cute when youre a kid, but you cant hold on to that blanket as a grown-up.

Ashley Malin, an assistant professor of epidemiology at the University of Florida, also appeared at the DeSantis event. She said major milestones in research show that stopping fluoridation would protect the brains of children in Florida from an unreasonable risk of harm for generations to come.

Fluoride levels

Dr. Aileen Marty, an infectious disease expert and professor at Florida International Universitys medical school, said the amount of fluoride added to water supplies is safe and effective.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fluoride is naturally occurring, she said. In some places its too high, but in many places, including typically in South Florida, its too low, she said.

Too little fluoride increases dental problems, which can lead to more widespread physical problems in the human body, she said.

The objective, Marty, Sharief and Tandy said, is 0.7 milligrams per liter, which is sometimes described as parts per million.

Fluoride at 0.7 milligrams per liter is safe. The so-called toxic dose would require a person to drink 128 gallons of water in one sitting, which is a physical impossibility, Sharief said. This isnt a debate about liberty, its a debate about responsibility.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tandy discounted data thats been cited by opponents from a study in Pakistan and India  at fluoride levels that were six times what were actually putting in the water to use it as a basis to scare technique to let people think that IQ levels for kids were going down because there is fluoride in the water, versus the research thats gone on for over 50 years that basically talks about the efficacy of .7 parts per million in the water.

Political decision

For decades, opposition to fluoride in drinking water was the realm of fringe conspiracy theorists, exemplified by the 1964 film classic Dr. Strangelove.

An insane Air Force general, Jack D. Ripper, launches a nuclear attack against the Soviet Union. Ripper was so obsessed with fluoridation of water, which he called the most monstrously conceived and dangerous communist plot that we have ever had to face, that he drank only distilled water or rainwater.

The Cold War is long over, but the battle over fluoridation has raged anew in recent years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

State Rep. Daryl Campell, a Broward Democrat, told his colleagues that the legislation was a gift to conspiracy theories at the expense of common sense and public health.

State Rep. Daniel Alvarez, a Hillsborough County Republican, told his colleagues before they voted that the issue was not about fluoride. This is about your liberty, adding it was about facts, not conspiracy.

This would honestly be a joke if it didnt have such dangerous consequences, state Sen. Tina Polsky, a Broward-Palm Beach county Democrat said during the debate on the legislation.

On a deeper level it has to do less with science and less with fluoride and more of sense of whos in charge, said Charles Zelden, a professor of history and legal studies at Nova Southeastern University who periodically teaches a course in conspiracy theories. Its about an attitude toward authority, expertise, and its a way of saying we know better than the experts. Its a power play. Its a way of saying, Were in charge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its happening on a lot of levels with the MAGA movement. Its a way of saying we dont accept your established views. Look at their thoughts on COVID. Other examples are measles, or autism and vaccinations. Its a way of saying we dont accept your established knowledge, Zelden said.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has said he supports ending fluoridation of water supplies.

Marty said the fluoride debate mirrors what is happening across the board in medicine in the last 100 days. I think theres a lack of general recognition of how science works. Its very important to emphasize science is not something you believe in. Its based on empirical measurements and studies and hard data, Marty said.

The science of fluoride, like much of whats going on here, is being questioned by people who havent even done the work, havent even done the studies, she said. People who should not be trusted are unfortunately being held as experts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

DeSantis and other supporters of banning fluoride said its a matter of informed consent.

Jamming fluoride in the water supply irrespective of whatever for the teeth when you can get that other ways, you know, thats impinging on other peoples ability, you know, to have access to water in ways that they may not want to be exposed to, to what is essentially a forced medication, the governor said.

Marty said the argument that personal freedom should outweigh the public health benefits is a super slippery slope.

People could offer the same reasoning for why they shouldnt be required to wear seat belts, because its against my will or arguing that I dont feel like stopping at the stop sign. I didnt see anybody coming.

At what point do we have rules in society that help society operate and keep the vast majority of people safe and healthy, she said.

The fluoride ban was part of a much larger piece of legislation dealing with state agriculture policy. It passed the House and Senate largely along party lines, with Republicans voting yes and almost all Democrats voting no.

Utah is the only other state thats passed a fluoride ban.

Weather modification

DeSantis also said he would also sign Senate Bill 56 to ban geoengineering and weather modification activities. Some conspiracy theorists are concerned about so-called chemtrails.

Were not engaged in any of that, but people have concerns, because you have all these people that are saying, Well, the way to fight climate change is to inject this stuff and block the sun, DeSantis said.

The sponsor, state Sen. Ileana Garcia, a Miami Republican, briefly fell ill as she was praising DeSantis promise to sign it into law.

She sat down for a few minutes and was tended to by Ladapo, the surgeon general, then returned to the lectern. DeSantis said later she appeared to be fine.

_____
Florida will become the second state in the nation to prohibit fluoridation of public water supplies, reversing decades of public health policy in favor of a new mindset that discounts experts and embraces individual autonomy.

Its forced medication when theyre jamming fluoride. And they did it because if you have fluoride, itll help with dental. And Im not saying thats not true, but we have other ways where people can get access to fluoride, Gov. Ron DeSantis said Tuesday in Miami. When you do this in the water supply, youre taking away a choice of someone who may not want to have overexposure to fluoride.

The state House and Senate passed the fluoride ban last month. DeSantis traveled to Miami to announce hed sign the legislation, a decision that was expected, hours after the Miami-Dade County Commission overrode the county mayors veto of a measure putting an end to fluoridation of the countys water supply.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The statewide ban, once DeSantis signs Senate Bill 700 into law, would go into effect July 1.

For DeSantis, it is a return to his approach during the COVID pandemic, when he carved out a political brand for himself. As the pandemic wore on, he eased restrictions he initially imposed, challenged the public health establishment, and touted Florida as a place for people who wanted to flee public health restrictions in their home states.

DeSantis staff resurrected the slogan on Tuesday, placing a sign on the lectern where he spoke proclaiming Free State of Florida.

Public health

People with expertise in dentistry and public health, both practitioners who have experience treating public health and scientists who study public health  decried the pending enactment of the law as a move back in time that will degrade peoples health for years to come.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Youre going to increase the amount of dental disease because of the lack of fluoride in the water, said Dr. Bruce Tandy, of Delray Beach, who retired after 40 years and remains active in the field teaching dental students at Nova Southeastern University and helping with a Florida Dental Association that provides free dental care for people in need.

All my professional friends, we were just shaking our heads. This just doesnt make sense, Tandy said.

State Sen. Barbara Sharief, a Broward Democrat, an advanced practice registered nurse who also has a doctorate in nursing practice and founded a pediatric home health care company, unsuccessfully sought to convince her colleagues to vote against the measure last month.

Ive seen firsthand how critical fluoridation is to our childrens health. Im deeply concerned that three years from now well be right back here scrambling to reverse this damage as preventable dental diseases will surge in our child population, Sharief said during the Senate debate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When communities stop fluoridating, cavities increase (and) school absences due to dental pain increase, Sharief said.

Tandy said science overwhelmingly supports fluoridation in the water. Weve seen over the years its been called one of the great public health wins that weve accomplished in this country and around the world.

Related Articles

Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo, a DeSantis appointee, said science doesnt support fluoridation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At the Miami event with the governor, he likened those who want to continue fluoridation to Linus, the Peanuts cartoon character who would never relinquish his security blanket.

This fluoridation is like, I think of Charlie Brown, Ladapo said. I cant remember his name, but the little guy holds his blanket, right? And I love it, hold your blanket. But unfortunately, hes a kid, but what we have instead, we have professionals, there are doctors, dentists, public health leaders who are holding on to fluoridation like that blanket, he said.

It doesnt matter what the evidence shows, right? Whatever the studies show about potential harms in children and pregnant women and who knows about the rest of us, theyre just holding on to it, Ladapo said. Its really cute when youre a kid, but you cant hold on to that blanket as a grown-up.

Ashley Malin, an assistant professor of epidemiology at the University of Florida, also appeared at the DeSantis event. She said major milestones in research show that stopping fluoridation would protect the brains of children in Florida from an unreasonable risk of harm for generations to come.

Fluoride levels

Dr. Aileen Marty, an infectious disease expert and professor at Florida International Universitys medical school, said the amount of fluoride added to water supplies is safe and effective.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fluoride is naturally occurring, she said. In some places its too high, but in many places, including typically in South Florida, its too low, she said.

Too little fluoride increases dental problems, which can lead to more widespread physical problems in the human body, she said.

The objective, Marty, Sharief and Tandy said, is 0.7 milligrams per liter, which is sometimes described as parts per million.

Fluoride at 0.7 milligrams per liter is safe. The so-called toxic dose would require a person to drink 128 gallons of water in one sitting, which is a physical impossibility, Sharief said. This isnt a debate about liberty, its a debate about responsibility.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tandy discounted data thats been cited by opponents from a study in Pakistan and India  at fluoride levels that were six times what were actually putting in the water to use it as a basis to scare technique to let people think that IQ levels for kids were going down because there is fluoride in the water, versus the research thats gone on for over 50 years that basically talks about the efficacy of .7 parts per million in the water.

Political decision

For decades, opposition to fluoride in drinking water was the realm of fringe conspiracy theorists, exemplified by the 1964 film classic Dr. Strangelove.

An insane Air Force general, Jack D. Ripper, launches a nuclear attack against the Soviet Union. Ripper was so obsessed with fluoridation of water, which he called the most monstrously conceived and dangerous communist plot that we have ever had to face, that he drank only distilled water or rainwater.

The Cold War is long over, but the battle over fluoridation has raged anew in recent years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

State Rep. Daryl Campbell, a Broward Democrat, told his colleagues that the legislation was a gift to conspiracy theories at the expense of common sense and public health.

State Rep. Daniel Alvarez, a Hillsborough County Republican, told his colleagues before they voted that the issue was not about fluoride. This is about your liberty, adding it was about facts, not conspiracy.

This would honestly be a joke if it didnt have such dangerous consequences, state Sen. Tina Polsky, a Broward-Palm Beach county Democrat said during the debate on the legislation.

On a deeper level it has to do less with science and less with fluoride and more of sense of whos in charge, said Charles Zelden, a professor of history and legal studies at Nova Southeastern University who periodically teaches a course in conspiracy theories. Its about an attitude toward authority, expertise, and its a way of saying we know better than the experts. Its a power play. Its a way of saying, Were in charge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its happening on a lot of levels with the MAGA movement. Its a way of saying we dont accept your established views. Look at their thoughts on COVID. Other examples are measles, or autism and vaccinations. Its a way of saying we dont accept your established knowledge, Zelden said.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has said he supports ending fluoridation of water supplies.

Marty said the fluoride debate mirrors what is happening across the board in medicine in the last 100 days. I think theres a lack of general recognition of how science works. Its very important to emphasize science is not something you believe in. Its based on empirical measurements and studies and hard data, Marty said.

The science of fluoride, like much of whats going on here, is being questioned by people who havent even done the work, havent even done the studies, she said. People who should not be trusted are unfortunately being held as experts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

DeSantis and other supporters of banning fluoride said its a matter of informed consent.

Jamming fluoride in the water supply irrespective of whatever for the teeth when you can get that other ways, you know, thats impinging on other peoples ability, you know, to have access to water in ways that they may not want to be exposed to, to what is essentially a forced medication, the governor said.

Marty said the argument that personal freedom should outweigh the public health benefits is a super slippery slope.

People could offer the same reasoning for why they shouldnt be required to wear seat belts, because its against my will or arguing that I dont feel like stopping at the stop sign. I didnt see anybody coming.

At what point do we have rules in society that help society operate and keep the vast majority of people safe and healthy, she said.

The fluoride ban was part of a much larger piece of legislation dealing with state agriculture policy. It passed the House and Senate largely along party lines, with Republicans voting yes and almost all Democrats voting no.

Utah is the only other state thats passed a fluoride ban.

Weather modification

DeSantis also said he would also sign Senate Bill 56 to ban geoengineering and weather modification activities. Some conspiracy theorists are concerned about so-called chemtrails.

Were not engaged in any of that, but people have concerns, because you have all these people that are saying, Well, the way to fight climate change is to inject this stuff and block the sun, DeSantis said.

The sponsor, state Sen. Ileana Garcia, a Miami Republican, briefly fell ill as she was praising DeSantis promise to sign it into law.

She sat down for a few minutes and was tended to by Ladapo, the surgeon general, then returned to the lectern. DeSantis said later she appeared to be fine.

Anthony Man can be reached at aman@sunsentinel.com and can be found @browardpolitics on Bluesky, Threads, Facebook and Mastodon.
Editor's note: A previous version of this story indicated the wrong relationship between Sue Story and Robert Markel.

When Sue Story found her grandfather's dog being mauled in her front yard and no sign of Robert Markel, she told authorities something was not right.

According to an incident report from the Collier County Sheriff's Office, Story, 65, told authorities a bear killed the dog, but she could not find Markel, 89.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Story told authorities that when she went to check Markel's camper, also on her property, he was not there. The last time she saw her grandfather was about 7:30 p.m. May 4, the night before.

When she spoke with authorities, Story told them Markel's camper was "in disarray."

When a responding sheriff's deputy checked the trailer, as described in the report, the mattress was off the bed and items were scattered throughout the trailer.

The sheriff's deputy indicated he did not find blood in the trailer.

Then, approximately 20 yards from the trailer, in nearby woods, he said authorities found a wallet, pants and a T-shirt that "appeared to be saturated in blood."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When officers with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission arrived, they found Markel's body approximately 100 yards from the trailer.

Dirt and leaves covered Markel's remains, the report states.

FWC announcement: FWC takes bears for DNA analysis after deadly attack kills man, dog in rural Collier County

The Collier County attack: This is the first time in recorded Florida history a black bear has killed a human

Authorities said it is the first time in recorded Florida history a black bear has killed a human.

During a May 6 press conference, authorities said officials were working to find the bear, with three already killed and taken to Gainesville for DNA analysis.

Officials also said Markel and the dog were home alone during the incident and that Markel likely died two hours before the dog.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Officers continue to set traps and search for bears.

Black bear attack in Collier County: 'He's already killed a dog'

Authorities received two 911 calls as bystanders became aware of the canine's mauling.

"He's already killed a dog," the first of two callers, identifying as a grandson of Markel and his father, reported, later adding that, "One of the bears is still here."

The caller then warned the dispatcher he was venturing out to search for the bear.

"I'm putting my clothes on and I'm taking my gun," the caller said. "I'm gonna go look for this bear."

The caller said they did not know how long Markel has been gone. During a second call, which lasted 20 minutes, he said they saw a bear grab and maul the dog.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The 911 dispatcher asked if Markel could have run away.

"He's 89. He literally can't walk," the caller said.

The caller said the bears frequent the area, grab the nearby trash and "all of the sudden decided to take him."

Tomas Rodriguez is a Breaking/Live News Reporter for the Naples Daily News and The News-Press. You can reach Tomas at TRodriguez@gannett.com or 772-333-5501. Connect with him on Threads @tomasfrobeltran, Instagram @tomasfrobeltran, Facebook @tomasrodrigueznews and Bluesky @tomasfrodriguez.

Tayeba Hussein is a breaking news reporter for the Naples Daily News and The News-Press. You may email her at THussein@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Florida bear attack 911 call: Man dragged from camper in fatal mauling
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB)  Social work is a calling. Its a tough, low-paying job thats in high demand. Many social workers enter the field with college loan debt.

Floridas largest health care insurer is trying to relieve that loan debt.

Florida Blue donated $50,000 on Wednesday to Florida State University, Panama City, to create an endowed scholarship for the social work bachelors degree program.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The scholarship comes at a critical time. With people still recovering from Hurricane Michael and COVID, theres a huge need for trained professionals in mental health and social services.

REAL ID enforcement begins, travelers without are still allowed to fly

Social work is so critical and important, whether its inside of a hospital or outside of a hospital, in order to have employees to support that need it. Its important for us to ensure that we support workforce development and work with organizations like FSU, Hong Potomski said.

FSU-PC officials say they currently have 40 students majoring in social work.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Theyre accepting applications for the fall semester.

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 mypanhandle.com.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Tuesday he will sign into law legislation that bans local governments from adding fluoride to public drinking water, ending a decades-old practice that health professionals have long credited with slashing rates of tooth decay, especially in poor communities.

Once DeSantis signs the bill, Florida will become the second state in the country to prohibit the cavity-fighting mineral, following Utah which ended fluoridation this year.

Its forced medication when theyre putting fluoride into your water supply, DeSantis said. Why should this be forced on people? It really shouldnt be forced on people.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Both Orange County and the Orlando Utilities Commission  which combined serve about 370,000 customers and had resisted earlier calls to halt fluoridation  said they would change course once the bill is signed.

In contrast, Seminole County and dozens of other municipalities in Florida in recent months  including Lake Mary, Longwood, Tavares and Leesburg  had moved on their own to ban the mineral from their water, as opposition to fluoride moved from a fringe issue to a mainstream political one.

DeSantis compared fluoridation of public water supplies to government rules during the pandemic, which he disliked. He railed against COVID-19 face mask requirements, the closing of schools and the shuttering of restaurants and other businesses.

Honestly, because we saw how out of whack many of these medical elites were during COVID, I think people are much more skeptical when these elites are trying to jam anything down our throats, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

DeSantis made the comments during a press conference in Miami while standing next to Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo, who for months has strongly urged Florida to ban fluoride, citing research that the mineral can be toxic. U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. also has claimed fluoride is linked to various health problems.

However, the American Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatrics and other medical groups have disputed those studies, and continue to endorse water fluoridation as one of the simplest, healthiest and most cost effective ways to reduce cavities, especially among young children whose teeth are forming.

But Ladapo said those health professionals are citing old research. He compared them to the Peanuts comic strip character Linus, who clings to a blanket for security.

We have professionals, doctors, dentists who are holding on to fluoride like that blanket, Ladapo said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fluoride, a mineral naturally found in water and soil, has been added to public water supplies in the United States since 1945. In Florida, utility providers add enough additional fluoride to bring levels to 0.7 parts per million  or about three drops in a 55-gallon barrel of water.

The fluoridation ban is part of a wide-ranging agricultural bill approved by the Legislature last month that prohibits public and private utilities from putting health-related chemicals in drinking water. DeSantis said he would sign the bill as soon as the legislature officially transmits it to his office.

Like DeSantis, state legislators in support of the prohibition called it a matter of personal choice and pointed out that most toothpastes and many mouthwashes contain fluoride.

This is about your liberty, state Rep. Danny Alvarez, R-Dover, said before voting for the bill last month.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

DeSantis, who acknowledged that fluoridation is beneficial to dental health, said the legislation would not prevent residents from adding fluoride to their own tap water.

But opponents said ending fluoridation would be detrimental to poor families who cannot afford good dental care. They added that most dentists recommend using fluoridated drinking water along with toothpaste as one of the best ways to prevent cavities.

This is a gift to conspiracy theorists at the expense of common sense and public health, state Rep. Daryl Campbell, R-Fort Lauderdale said last month. This bill takes a safe and proven and affordable public health tool and rips it away from low-income families.

Orlando Utilities Commission, which serves about 150,000 water customers, will stop adding fluoride pending the governors final signature, spokeswoman Michelle Lynch said Tuesday. The fluoride should then dissipate from OUCs water system within 72 hours.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Orange County, which delivers drinking water to about 220,000, will stop adding fluoride before July 1, when the ban would take effect, officials said.

Tuesdays press conference took place just hours after Miami-Dade commissioners voted to override Mayor Daniela Levine-Cavas veto on a county ordinance banning fluoride in drinking water approved by commissioners last month.

The anti-fluoride bill also would prohibit the labeling of plant-based foods as related to poultry, meat, milk or eggs, such as calling almond or soy milks dairy products. But the labeling prohibition would not take effect until at least 11 other Southeastern states enact similar bans.

Florida Secretary of Agriculture and Consumer Services Wilton Simpson also attended Tuesdays event at the Rohde Building in Miami.

Today, we announce that drinking water in Florida will hydrate, not medicate, Simpson said.

_____
A Tallahassee hemp store. (Photo by Mitch Perry/ Florida Phoenix)

A year ago, members of Floridas hemp industry were lobbying Gov. Ron DeSantis to veto a bill regulating hemp-derived THC products that many claimed if signed into law would be a devastating blow to their livelihoods.

Their mission was accomplished when he did in fact veto the proposal last June.

That wont be required this year; the Legislature failed to pass anything on hemp before unofficially ending the legislative session on Friday night (they are expected to return to Tallahassee later this month to deal exclusively with budget-related matters).

State Sen. Colleen Burton via Florida Senate

Rep. Michelle Salzman via Florida House

The central problem appeared to be the substantive differences between the Senate bill sponsored by Polk County Republican Colleen Burton (SB 438) and the House version (HB 7027) sponsored by Panhandle Republican Michelle Salzman.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The two measures would have capped the potency of hemp-derived THC products, placed advertising restrictions, and required hemp to be tested by a certified medical cannabis laboratory. But there were some big differences: The Senate bill (like its 2024 version) called for the outright ban of synthetic cannabinoids like Delta-8 and said that the newly popular hemp-infused drinks could only be sold through a retailer holding a liquor license.

Salzmans bill in the House did not ban Delta-8. Neither did it call for retailers to have a liquor license, but it did include a 15% excise tax on all hemp purchases. Jonathan Miller, general counsel for the U.S. Hemp Roundtable, said the House bill was better for his industry than the Senates version, and said he appreciated the work that Rep. Salzman devoted to trying to find the right balance.

In its final form, we said that it wasnt perfect, but it was a significant improvement on the Senate bill and so in the end nothing passing was better than the Senate bill passing, Miller said. Hes hopeful, he said, that between now and next years legislative session people will realize that the House version is the model to start working from and hopefully produce something that really both protects farmers and consumers at the same time.

Honestly afraid

Carlos Hermida, who owns two hemp shops in the Tampa Bay area, says the Senates ban on synthetic cannibinoids like Delta-8 and Delta-10 would have eliminated most hemp products from his establishments.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I was honestly afraid that we would have to close down, he said last week when it became evident there would be no bill this year. Of course it will be good for my bottom line. I can still sell drinks, I can sell the products that my customers need, and I can still advertise.

A new element in this discussion from a year ago has been the emergence of hemp-derived THC beverages being sold throughout the state. Burtons proposal would have required sales only at locations licensed to sell alcoholic beverages. Both bills limited the amount of THC in such drinks (5 milligrams per container in the Senate, 10 milligrams per container in the House), while the House bill would have banned consumption of such drinks on the retailers premises.

Those restrictions might work for establishments like ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, a major liquor retail chain, said Michael Smith, co-owner of Herban Flow in St. Petersburg. But it wouldnt work for his two stores, which feature a large selection of THC-infused drinks.

With [Florida] being such a tourism/hospitality state, these bars are trying to develop server menus and other type of non-alcoholic menus for people to partake and join out with their friends, and the House bill would have taken away on-site consumption completely, he said. Losing that ability to go out there and sell at festivals and farmers markets, that would have significantly hurt us.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During the final committee stop in the House, Rep. Salzman said she was resolute in keeping that provision in her bill, saying that there are no mechanisms to test for intoxication from those THC-infused drinks.

This stuff has got to be regulated

With Congress largely silent on the issue, it has been up to the states to regulate hemp-derived THC products since the U.S. Farm Bill legalized hemp in 2018. While roughly half the states in the nation have placed some regulations on such products (and some, such as Idaho, have banned the product outright), Florida continues to struggle with such measures.

Thats a problem, says Ellen Snelling, of the Hillsborough County Anti-Drug Alliance.

Im extremely disappointed, says said, noting that House Speaker Daniel Perez had convened a special workgroup that met for three days during the first week of the session to learn more about the hemp business from those in the industry.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I thought, This is great. This is going to work this year, she recounted.

Then Snelling saw the disparate House and Senate bill versions posted. As time went on, it just seemed like they werent going to come to a consensus and be able to get it done. But both bills had some positive things in it, and I just wish there was some way that they have gotten together and gotten a bill passed, because its past time, because this stuff has got to be regulated.

Florida is not the only state that failed to come up with regulations on hemp-derived THC products this year. In Georgia last month, a bill addressing concerns about high THC dosages passed in the state Senate but stalled in the House, as well.

Its really a game of whack-a-mole, said U.S. Hemp Roundtables Miller.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Over the course of legislative sessions, weve seen things pop up and we try to hammer them down, and sometimes we miss but in general I think the movement is towards robust regulation as opposed to bans. I think with this new hemp beverage industry theres a lot more excitement about that, and so I think youre going to see more Legislatures really trying to come up with solutions that provide for strong access to consumers while ensuring protection of the products.

It should be noted that both Senate and House bills passed unanimously in all of the committees in which they were heard, and the full Senate voted unanimously in support of that bill when it came to the floor last month. The House version never came to the floor of that chamber.

We will continue to debate how hemp affects public health and our economy, Salzman told the Phoenix in an emailed comment last week. There are legal gaps we need to address in the future and I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure these products are safe and protect consumers, while still allowing Florida farmers to thrive.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
A Florida man was gored by a bison in Yellowstone National Park.

According to the National Park Service, the 47-year-old Cape Coral man was in the Lake Village area of the park when he was gored after approaching the bison too closely. The incident happened at about 3:15 p.m. on May 4.

The man reportedly sustained minor injuries and was treated by emergency medical personnel.

It was the first time a bison injured a person in 2025. There were two incidents in 2024 and one in 2023, per the NPS.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Wildlife in Yellowstone are wild and can be dangerous," the NPS warned.

Wild animals can be aggressive if people dont respect their space. It is your responsibility to stay more than 25 yards (23 meters) away from all large animals  bison, elk, bighorn sheep, deer, moose, and coyotes  and at least 100 yards (91 meters) away from bears and wolves. If wildlife approach you, move away to always maintain these safe viewing distances.

Bison will defend their space when threatened and have injured more people in Yellowstone than any other animal. They are unpredictable and can run three times faster than humans.

Learn more about our safety tips while visiting Yellowstone, including how to behave around wildlife. The safety of these animals  and humans  depends on everyone using good judgment and following these simple rules.

Two wildlife encounters in Florida ended in fatalities this week. A man and his dog were killed in a bear attack in Southwest Florida on May 5. One day later, a woman was killed by an alligator while canoeing on Lake Kissimmee.

What is Yellowstone National Park?

Yellowstone is the world's first national park. The park opened March 1, 1872, and boasts unique hydrothermal and geologic features on 2.2 million acres.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Visitors have unparalleled opportunities to observe wildlife in an intact ecosystem, explore geothermal areas that contain about half the worlds active geysers, and view geologic wonders like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River," a description on the park's website reads.

Where is Yellowstone National Park?

Most of Yellowstone National Park is in Wyoming, with about four percent of its 2.2 million acres located in Montana and Idaho.

Where did bison injure Cape Coral, Florida man in Yellowstone National Park?

The incident took place in the Lake Village area of Yellowstone National Park.

Have there been fatal bison attacks in Yellowstone National Park?

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, "over the history of the National Park, dating back to 1872, 2 people have been killed as a result of bison encounters and 8 from bear encounters (additional fatalities occurred outside the park boundaries)."

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Florida man at Yellowstone National Park gored by bison
Sign up for the daily JWR update. It's free. Just click here.

A divided Supreme Court on Tuesday allowed President Donald Trump to bar transgender troops from the military while litigation over the policy proceeds.

The justices granted the Trump administration's request to lift a lower-court ruling that had blocked the president's executive order nationwide.

As often happens with emergency requests, the majority did not explain its reasoning. The court's three liberal justices - Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson - said they would have kept the hold on Trump's policy in place.

Trump issued the order to remove transgender troops from the ranks soon after taking office in January, characterizing transgender identity as a "falsehood" that does not comport with the "humility and selflessness required of a service member."

The executive order is one of a series of actions by the administration aimed at rolling back protections for transgender and LGBTQ+ people and targeting transgender athletes. But the court's ruling Tuesday is limited to the military's hiring practices, and the administration emphasized in court filings that the president should be granted great deference when it comes to assembling the nation's armed forces.

The military should not "be forced to maintain a policy that it has determined, in its professional judgment, to be contrary to military readiness and the Nation's interests," Solicitor General D. John Sauer told the justices on behalf of the administration.

In recent years, the Supreme Court has ruled that a landmark federal civil rights law from the 1960s protects gay and transgender workers - a case that was not related to the military. The justices are also expected to decide before the end of June whether states can ban certain gender transition medical treatments for young people.

The court's emergency docket has filled up since Trump returned to office with a flood of filings from the administration, asking the justices to limit or lift lower-court rulings that have blocked many Trump initiatives from taking effect while litigation over their legality continues. The high court has sided with Trump in some of its emergency orders but gone against the administration in others.

Trump's order targeting transgender troops reversed a Biden administration policy that prohibited discrimination based on gender identity and allowed transgender troops to serve openly. The Biden policy, in turn, removed an earlier ban on transgender troops put in place in 2018 during the first Trump administration.

In a 5-4 ruling in 2019, the Supreme Court allowed Trump's earlier ban to take effect while challenges to that policy proceeded. But the high court never addressed the underlying legal questions at issue in those cases.

Transgender troops were first allowed to serve openly in 2016. More than 4,000 service members have been diagnosed with gender dysphoria, according to a senior defense official who spoke on the condition of anonymity under ground rules set by the Trump administration.

Advocates for the troops who challenged the current policy called the Supreme Court's order a "devastating blow to transgender servicemembers who have demonstrated their capabilities and commitment to our nation's defense."

Lambda Legal and the Human Rights Campaign Foundation said the court had "temporarily sanctioned a policy that has nothing to do with military readiness and everything to do with prejudice."

Transgender individuals "meet the same standards and demonstrate the same values as all who serve," the groups said in a joint statement.

Trump's policy from his first term carved out an exception for transgender people already serving, barring only new members of the military who were transgender. The current policy purges current service members and forbids any new transgender people from joining.

While the policy takes effect, lawsuits challenging it will continue to be litigated in federal courts. Eventually the Supreme Court could be asked to rule on whether the policy is constitutional.

Shannon Minter, legal director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights, said the high court's order Tuesday "upended the lives of thousands of service members without even the decency of explaining why" and would result in transgender service members being targeted and forced into an administrative separation process that is usually reserved for misconduct.

"This is a deeply sad day for our country," Minter said.

A Justice Department spokesman said the Supreme Court order "rightly rejected attempts to inject gender ideology into our military at the expense of our fighting capabilities. The Department will continue to fight against desperate attempts to seize control of America's military readiness in service of a radical social agenda."

The lawsuit that prompted the Supreme Court order was filed by gay and transgender rights groups on behalf of seven transgender service members and a prospective member. It claims Trump's ban amounts to unconstitutional discrimination, threatens national security and wastes years of military training.

One service member, Emily "Hawking" Shilling, is a commander with the U.S. Navy. She has served for 19 years, flying 60 combat missions, including in Iraq and Afghanistan. In court documents, Shilling said she and her partner have three children. The ban will leave the family in a financially precarious situation with no housing benefits, health insurance or stable retirement income, she said.

"For nearly a decade, across multiple administrations, thousands of transgender people have openly served in our military with dedication, honor, and distinction," reads a Supreme Court filing by lawyers for the troops. "These servicemembers have sacrificed to serve our country - all the while meeting the same rigorous standards for accession and retention required of every soldier, airman, marine, and sailor serving in our Armed Forces."

A federal judge in Washington state issued a preliminary injunction against the enforcement of the executive order in March, saying the Trump administration had presented no information that transgender troops harmed the operation of the military.

U.S. District Judge Benjamin Settle, a nominee of President George W. Bush, said the government's "unrelenting reliance on deference to military judgment is unjustified in the absence of any evidence supporting the military's' new judgment reflected in the Military Ban."

The Trump administration then appealed to the Supreme Court.

"The Department rationally determined that service by individuals with gender dysphoria would undermine military effectiveness and lethality - consistent with similar, longstanding determinations for a wide range of other medical conditions," Sauer told the justices in a filing.

The case now goes back to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit, which will hear the Trump administration's appeal of the lower court's ruling.

The Pentagon has ordered each branch of the military to identify service members with gender dysphoria within 30 days and begin removing them from the service within 30 days after that. The order allows exceptions for troops directly supporting "warfighting capabilities."

Troops that obtain a waiver to stay in the military will face additional restrictions, including not being able to access changing rooms, bathrooms and showers for people of the sex they transitioned to. They will also have to meet the physical standards associated with their birth sex.

Two other lawsuits against the transgender troop ban are also being litigated in the courts. U.S. District Judge Ana C. Reyes in D.C. temporarily blocked the policy in March, saying it undermines national security and is probably unconstitutional.

"The cruel irony is that thousands of transgender servicemembers have sacrificed - some risking their lives - to ensure for others the very equal protection rights the Military Ban seeks to deny them," wrote Reyes, a nominee of President Joe Biden.

Her ruling was temporarily blocked in an administrative order from a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit.

(COMMENT, BELOW)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. A climate meeting has started in Copenhagen with the participation of leaders and ministers from various countries, including Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, aimed at directing discussions for the upcoming COP30 talks in Brazil, Trend reports.

The meeting is chaired by Denmark's Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities Lars Aagaard.

The designated president of COP30, Brazilian Ambassador Andre Correa do Lago, and the outgoing president of COP29, Azerbaijan's special climate representative, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Mukhtar Babayev are also attending the meeting.

The opening remarks highlighted that during COP29 in Baku, nearly 200 partner countries achieved significant results under the "Baku Climate Solidarity Pact", focusing on intensified climate change efforts, enhanced resilience, and mobilizing financial resources for those in need. Key achievements included the new Collective Quantitative Target for Climate Finance, the Loss and Damage Fund, and the completion of rules for the carbon market under the Paris Agreements Article 6. The most important takeaway was that COP29 demonstrated that multilateral action could yield real results through countries working together.

Currently, the main focus is on turning these results into concrete steps, as the climate crisis demands decisive and swift global action. The success of COP30 will depend on the international community's readiness to support and strengthen the multilateral climate regime, which includes accelerating the implementation of the Paris Agreement and making it more relevant to peoples lives.

Babayev noted that in the rapidly changing world, all countries face the climate crisis, making open discussions, constructive cooperation, and progress essential. He emphasized that through joint efforts, significant progress had been made. Before the Paris Agreement, the world was headed toward a 4C rise in temperature, but thanks to efforts like those in Baku, the world has shown it can reach agreements and achieve results.

He also mentioned that developing countries would receive $1.3 trillion annually in climate finance under new commitments.

Babayev stressed the need for honest assessment of the current situation given increasing global uncertainties. He cautioned that the climate crisis will not wait for other issues to be resolved and must be addressed alongside other global challenges. Otherwise, missed opportunities will lead to regret.

Babayev added that the presidency of COP29 is currently supporting Brazil's preparations for COP30. He emphasized that the leadership and support of the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev played a decisive role in the successful organization of COP29 and in the country's investment in the fight against climate change.

"Our main goal is for all leaders to actively participate equally in this process. At the spring meetings held in Washington, we faced the risk of climate issues being removed from the agenda. But we must bring this issue to the forefront again and present concrete plans for fulfilling the commitments made. This involves not only governments but also all stakeholders, including multilateral development banks and other financial institutions," the minister said.

As one of the outcomes of COP29, Babayev pointed out that the target is to mobilize $300 billion annually by 2035, and achieving this will require collective effort.

He emphasized that the next immediate and crucial result should be the preparation of new climate plans, with all countries expected to submit their National Adaptation Plans (NAP) and initial two-year transparency reports by September. These steps will support Brazils leadership at COP30.

COP30 President called on the international community to unite efforts against climate change for the well-being of humanity.

He reminded participants of the recent call by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at the Petersberg Climate Dialogue, urging countries to submit national contributions aligned with the 1.5C goal by September.

"We must take these calls seriouslyit is essential to both prevent the worst outcomes and take advantage of opportunities for a low-carbon and sustainable future," do Lago said.

The year 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement's adoption and the midpoint of a decisive decade for climate action. This year also represents a crucial stage for the implementation of the Paris Agreement's goals. 2025 should be a turning point for advancing climate change adaptation and submitting National Adaptation Plans.

In this context, COP30 will uniquely coordinate participants, processes, and mechanisms within and outside the UNFCCC framework. The goal is to bridge gaps in key areas such as mitigation, adaptation, finance, technology, and capacity building, in line with COP30s "Southern Cross" vision.

With just seven months to go before COP30, there is a critical opportunity for parties to accelerate their climate ambitions and actions. This high-level meeting in Copenhagen provides a platform for sincere and constructive discussions on climate action.

During the two-day meeting, participants will have open and constructive discussions on a number of key issues identified based on the Baku Solidarity Pact and the UAE Consensus, including nationally determined contributions, just transition, financing, adaptation, resilience, and the implementation of the Global Stocktake.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
One phone call was all it took to jeopardize an elderly Florida mans financial security. Police in Pembroke Pines say the man was the victim of a brazen scam that drained $55,000 from his bank  the latest in a heartbreaking wave of scams targeting vulnerable older adults.

Police say Terol Castel Lyn, posing as a Wells Fargo bank employee, contacted the victim and told him his account was part of an active criminal investigation. But instead of advising the victim to freeze his funds or visit a branch, Lyn instructed him to withdraw the money and meet Lyn to hand over the cash. Over two days in April, thats exactly what the victim did, and Lyn allegedly wasnt finished: Police say he warned the man the FBI would be contacting him for additional payments.

The victims son grew suspicious when he learned about the unusual bank withdrawals and reported it to local authorities. Working with the Pembroke Pines Police Department, they quickly set up a sting operation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When Lyn showed up to collect an additional payment, police moved in for an arrest. Lyn fled but was later caught in Fort Lauderdale. He faces charges of felony larceny on a victim 65 years of age or older, felony fraud and other charges, and police are exploring whether the scheme may have targeted additional victims.

Police are now urging families in the area to closely monitor the bank accounts of elderly relatives and to be vigilant for similar scam attempts.

Don't miss

Scams target the vulnerable

The Florida case is far from isolated. Scams targeting seniors are surging.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Americans over the age of 60 reported approximately $4.8 billion in financial losses to internet-related crimes in 2024  a sharp increase from previous years, with both the number of complaints and total losses for this age group rising by more than 40% from 2023, according to the FBIs 2024 Internet Crime Report.

Impersonation scams, where criminals pose as trusted institutions like government agencies, banks or law enforcement, were among the most common tactics, the report found. And the true numbers could be even higher: The FBI says many seniors are too embarrassed or confused to report scams once theyve fallen victim.

Scammers know exactly how to manipulate their targets. They exploit trust, fear, and urgency and they often strike when victims are most vulnerable or isolated.

Read more: Here are 5 must have items that Americans (almost) always overpay for  and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?

How to spot a scam and protect your loved ones

Stopping scams like this starts with education and vigilance. Heres what you  and your elderly loved ones  need to know to stay protected:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

**Watch out for requests for cash: **No legitimate bank or FBI agent will ever ask a citizen to withdraw cash and hand it over in person. If you get a call like this, its a scam. Hang up immediately.

Verify before you act: If you get a suspicious call, dont act on it right away. Look up the official phone number of the bank or agency and call them yourself to verify. Never trust caller ID, since scammers can spoof phone numbers to look legitimate.

Beware of pressure tactics: Fraudsters often create fake emergencies. If someone says you must act "right now," slow down. Pressure to act fast is a huge red flag.

**Set up account alerts: **Banks offer free tools to monitor accounts for unusual transactions. Set up text or email alerts for all major withdrawals or charges over a certain amount.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

**Talk to your family: **Have regular conversations with older family members about common scams. Make sure they know its okay to call you before taking action on anything suspicious.

**Help older adults with technology: **Teach elderly loved ones how to block unknown callers on their cell phones and report spam calls. Some apps even screen calls automatically to prevent scam attempts.

If you suspect fraud, contact your local police department and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

What to read next

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier and Republican leaders in 19 other states are urging a federal appeals court to reconsider a decision that backed the Leon County school system in a dispute about a student wanting to express a gender identity and use pronouns the childs parents didnt support.

Lawyers in Uthmeiers office and Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsens office last week filed a friend-of-the court brief calling for the full 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to hear arguments in the case. A three-judge panel of the appeals court in March ruled against the parents, January and Jeffrey Littlejohn, in the lawsuit against the Leon County School Board, Superintendent Rocky Hanna and other school officials.

The state officials brief described the panel ruling as disastrous for parents everywhere.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Before the 2020-2021 school year, the Littlejohns child, then a 13-year-old student at Deerlake Middle School, asked to go by a male name, J, and use they and them pronouns, according to the panels main opinion. The child was identified as a girl at birth, and the Littlejohns did not allow the name and pronoun changes, though they said the child could use J as a nickname at school.

The child told a school counselor about wanting to use the name J and the they and them pronouns, the ruling said. Under a school system policy guide at the time, the parents were not informed of the social transition at school. That ultimately led to the lawsuit.

The ruling said the case involved a challenge to government executive actions and, as a result, the legal test under court precedents was whether school officials actions shocked the conscience. The panel, in a 2-1 ruling, concluded the actions did not rise to that level.

The brief filed last week by the state officials said the panel erred in applying the shock-the-conscience standard.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Put simply, parents have a fundamental right to make decisions concerning the care, custody, and control of their children, including controversial decisions like whether to allow their children to socially transition, the brief said. Purposefully withholding from a parent critical information about supposed medical treatment that a school is providing a student not only violates that right, but does so to a disturbing and constitutionally intolerable degree.

The brief also said that under a proper shocks-the-conscience analysis, the schools actions reached far beyond the pale.

The panels main opinion, which upheld a decision by Chief U.S. District Judge Mark Walker to dismiss the case, said a gender identity-related Student Support Plan was developed with the child in compliance with school board guidelines at the time.

The child was not physically harmed, much less permanently so, Judge Robin Rosenbaum wrote in the main opinion. Defendants did not remove the Littlejohns child from their custody. And defendants did not force the child to attend a Student Support Plan meeting, to not invite the Littlejohns to that meeting, or to socially transition at school. In fact, defendants did not force the Littlejohns child to do anything at all. And perhaps most importantly, defendants did not act with intent to injure. To the contrary, they sought to help the child. Under these circumstances, even if the Littlejohns felt that defendants efforts to help their child were misguided or wrong, the mere fact that the school officials acted contrary to the Littlejohns wishes does not mean that their conduct shocks the conscience in a constitutional sense.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Littlejohns last month filed a petition asking the full Atlanta-based appeals court to hold what is known as an en banc hearing in the case. Groups from across the country have filed a series of friend-of-the-court briefs supporting the request. The Leon County school system had not filed a response as of Wednesday morning.

In addition to Florida and Montana, Republican attorney generals or legislative leaders from Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, South Carolina, South Dakota, Virginia and West Virginia signed on to the state officials brief.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Florida Sen. Ileana Garcia appeared to faint as she spoke during a news conference hosted by Gov. Ron DeSantis on Tuesday, May 6

"Governor, forgive me, Ive got to sit down, because I am not feeling well, Garcia told Gov. Ron DeSantis, per a clip shared by Fox 13 Tampa Bay

She returned to continue her speech after briefly sitting down, telling the crowd, Are you kidding? This was my moment... I could not"

Florida Sen. Ileana Garcia appeared to faint as she spoke during a news conference in Miami hosted by Gov. Ron DeSantis this week.

On Tuesday, May 6, Garcia  a republican who serves District 36 in southern Florida  joined politicians to discuss the state wanting to ban "local governments from unilaterally adding fluoride to public drinking water," per an X post shared by DeSantis.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As Garcia was speaking on the stage, she turned to DeSantis and said, "Governor, forgive me, Ive got to sit down, because I am not feeling well, per a clip shared by Fox 13 Tampa Bay.

Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo, 46, was nearby and rushed to Garcia's aid after her eyes closed and she looked unsteady on her feet.

Hey, hey, hey, hey, we've got you, we've got you, we've got you, he repeatedly said while holding on to her.

AP Photo/Lynne Sladky Florida Surgeon General, Dr. Joseph Ladapo, helps Sen. Ileana Garcia as she appears to faint during news conference Florida Surgeon General, Dr. Joseph Ladapo, helps Sen. Ileana Garcia as she appears to faint during news conference

Others rallied around Garcia, making sure she was okay and had water to drink, per the clip. She then returned to the stage shortly afterward and made light of the incident.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Are you kidding? This was my moment... I could not, she said in the Fox 13 Tampa Bay video.

Related: Florida Surgeon General Appointed by Ron DeSantis Goes Against Science amid Florida Measles Outbreak

Nerve-wracking, but this was my moment. And I so appreciate your grace, Governor DeSantis," the senator continued in a video posted by DeSantis on Facebook.

Guys, can we just give another round of applause to Ileana Garcia, Miami Dade Commissioner Roberto Gonzalez insisted as he took to the stage after Garcia.

Absolutely nothing is going to stop that woman from fighting for the people of Florida, he told the crowd.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

PEOPLE has reached out to Garcia's office for a comment but did not immediately hear back.

Colin Hackley for The Washington Post via Getty Sen. Ileana Garcia Sen. Ileana Garcia

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.

Per local station WJXT, during Tuesday's news conference Gov. DeSantis said that he will sign a bill that "effectively bans the use of fluoride in Floridas water supply."

Paul Hennessy/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Dr. Joseph Ladapo Dr. Joseph Ladapo

Its forced medication when they are jamming medication into your water supply, the politician said while acknowledging that the chemical compound can help with dental health, the outlet noted.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We have other ways where people can get access to fluoride. When you do this in the water supply, you are taking away a choice of someone who may not want to have overexposure to fluoride, DeSantis added, as noted by the outlet.





Read the original article on People
The National Trust for Historic Preservation unveiled its annual list of America's "11 Most Endangered Historic Places," which includes a fishing village in Florida.

The listings began in 1988 and the latest was released May 7. The recognition doesnt come with funding but often garners attention and support for the sites, according to USA TODAY.

Across the United States, compelling, meaningful historic sites are at risk, whether from natural disasters, underutilization, neglect, or lack of awareness, Carol Quillen, president and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation said in a statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Each site on this years list has inspired passionate supporters from their surrounding communities to work together to save these cherished landmarks and repurpose them for the public, now and into the future. Their leadership shows the power of preservation to create stronger communities, energized local economies, and a healthier environment for everyone.

Where is Cedar Key?

Cedar Key is an island city in Levy County, off the northwest coast of Florida in the Gulf of America (the former Gulf of Mexico, as renamed by President Trump executive order).

Why was Cedar Key added to the endangered historical sites list?

The National Trust for Historic Preservation included Cedar Key in its most recent list, saying it is "increasingly threatened by rising sea levels and severe storm events," including a record storm surge brought by Hurricane Helene in 2024.

"As Cedar Key recovers and plans for the future, support and funding are needed to implement preservation-sensitive resilience plans, ensuring that this historic community representative of 'Old Florida' can continue to thrive," the National Trust for Historic Preservation wrote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Florida Trust for Historic Preservation in its release offered a variety of solutions to the problem, and noted that it worked with the University of Florida on a "Resilient Cedar Key Adaptation Plan."

Ideas developed from the plan include "elevating and wet-proofing historic buildings, improving drainage to protect a historic cemetery, and using nature-based living shoreline approaches to reduce the impacts of storm surges."

How badly was Cedar Key damaged by Hurricane Helene?

The popular weekend destination and fishing village was heavily damaged by Hurricane Helene's 84-mph wind gusts and 10-foot storm surge on Sept. 26, 2024. Its surge topped the previous record set by Idalia's 7-foot storm surge in 2023, according to the Florida Climate Center.

Helene was responsible for roughly 250 fatalities in the United States, including 34 in Florida.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While the exact damage figures are still being determined, an estimate from NOAA's National Centers for Environmental Information said the storm was responsible for an estimated $78.7 billion in damage.

What are the other 'Most Endangered Historic Places' on the list?

The National Trust for Historic Preservation's 2025 list of endangered historic places also includes:

Cedar Key, Florida

Hotel Casa Blanca, Idlewild, Michigan , served as a premier lodging site for African American travelers, entertainers, and thought leaders during segregation. However, after integration, like many formerly segregated Black resorts, Idlewild experienced lower visitation and economic disinvestment, and Hotel Casa Blanca has now been vacant for over 30 years.

French Broad and Swannanoa River Corridors, Western North Carolina , including the city of Asheville and other communities damaged by Hurricane Helene in late September 2024.

May Hicks Curtis House, Flagstaff, Arizona , commemorates May Hicks Curtis, who sewed the first Arizona state flag in 1911. The house where she lived and worked for decades must be relocated and the city of Flagstaff is working to restore it for community use.

Mystery Castle, Phoenix, Arizona , constructed between 1934 and 1945 by Boyce Luther Gulley, who built the complex by hand for his daughter Mary Lou without plans, permits, or formal architectural or engineering training. Mary Lou and her mother Frances transformed the castle into a nationally known tourist attraction from the 1950s-2000s, but it is now in a state of disrepair.

Oregon Caves Chateau, Caves Junction, Oregon , closed in 2018 because of its need for extensive repairs, served an important economic role in its rural region for 91 years and could again if revitalized.

Pamunkey Indian Reservation, King William County, Virginia , the Pamunkey people have lived in Tsennacommacah, on and around the lands now known as the Pamunkey Indian Reservation in Virginia, for at least 15,000 years. However, tribal lands are now at risk, as sea level rise and increasing storm frequency and severity could cause most of the Reservation to become inaccessible within 75 years.

Terminal Island Japanese American Tuna Street Buildings, Los Angeles, California , with only two buildings remaining on Tuna Street, a community that was forcibly removed and incarcerated during World War II. The buildings are now owned by the Port of Los Angeles, which is considering demolition.

San Juan Hotel, San Juan, Texas , built in 1920, has long been one of the area's most recognizable landmarks.

The Turtle, Niagara Falls, New York , completed in 1981 by Arapaho architect Dennis Sun Rhodes, the building, which has been vacant for three decades, stands as a powerful symbol of Indigenous heritage.

The Wellington, Pine Hill, New York, is one of few surviving large-scale wood-frame resorts built in the Catskills in the late 1800s. Community members have purchased the building to serve as a food market, cafe, and affordable housing, but need additional funding to bring it to reality.

The Gainesville Sun contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Cedar Key Florida's Most Endangered Historical Sites on 2025 list
First Lady Melania Trump has two scheduled public appearances on May 8, part of only a handful she has made since her husband took office in January.

The Office of the First Lady advisories show she will host an unveiling of a U.S. Postal Service stamp honoring former First Lady Barbara Bush and a Celebration of Military Mothers.

The first lady, who was absent for much of Trump's presidential campaign, has only made a handful of public appearances since he returned to office. Others include speaking at the International Women of Courage Awards, attending Pope Francis' funeral and urging lawmakers to pass the Take It Down Act.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Here is what to know about First Lady Melania Trump ahead of her back-to-back events:

Barron Trump finishes freshman year at NYU. Here's where his family graduated (and who didn't)

Already in 2025, Melania Trump endorsed the 'Take It Down Act'

In a rare moment of bipartisanship, Congress passed the Take It Down Act, which criminalizes nonconsensual, explicit images created by artificial intelligence, often known as deepfakes.

Melania Trump used much of her public airtime to endorse this bill, which received near-unanimous approval.

"Its heartbreaking to witness young teens, especially girls, grappling with the overwhelming challenges posed by malicious online content, like deepfakes," Melania Trump said on March 3 while lobbying for the legislation.

When did Donald Trump marry Melania?

Donald Trump and Melania got married in 2005. They met in 1988, two years after she moved to New York.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Melania is Donald Trump's third wife.

Does Melania Trump have a college degree?

No. According to the American Presidency Project, Melania Trump did not complete a degree but attended the University of Ljubljana for one year.

Barron Trump is Melania and Donald Trump's only child together

President Trump has five children, and Melania Trump is the mother of his youngest, Barron Trump.

Barron Trump, 19, recently completed his freshman year at New York University.

What nationality is Melania Trump?

Melania Trump, who was born as Melanija Knavs but changed her name to Melania Knauss and later Melania Trump, is Slovenian.

Slovenia is a country in Eastern Europe between Croatia and Austria.

She is the only first lady to become a naturalized citizen and the second first lady born outside the United States. (The first was Louisa Catherine Adams, married to John Quincy Adams, who was president from 1825-1829.)

Photos of Melania Trump when she met Trump as a young model

Before Melania Trump married the billionaire and future president, she was a model. Take a look back at her early relationship with Donald Trump:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Contributing: Savannah Kuchar, Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy, USA TODAY

Kinsey Crowley is the Trump Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at kcrowley@gannett.com. Follow her on X and TikTok @kinseycrowley or Bluesky at @kinseycrowley.bsky.social.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Melania: Nationality, marriage to Donald, and mom to Barron Trump
With Mother's Day approaching, you may be looking to buy a bouquet of flowers  and prices could be higher due to tariffs enacted by President Trump.

"We're going to do the best we can to sort of keep those prices where they need to be. But people can definitely expect to be paying a little bit more," said Jody Costello, a florist in Royal Oak, Michigan.

While Mr. Trump paused hefty tariffs he announced in early April for 90 days, a 10% baseline tariff on all U.S. imports is in effect.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

About 80% of flowers bought in the United States are grown elsewhere. Last year, the U.S. imported $2.2 billion worth of cut flowers and greenery, the bulk of which came from Colombia and Ecuador, according to U.S. Census Bureau data.

"The fact that they can grow year-round gave them a natural advantage," said Kate Penn, CEO of the Society of American Florists.

Penn said domestically, small growers  many of whom have an acre or less  have flourished since the COVID-19 pandemic, selling at farmers' markets and to a blossoming wedding industry.

"The consumer does want to buy local, especially brides," she said. "They love to be able to have local flowers featured."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But even small growers like Moonshot Farm in East Windsor, New Jersey, aren't immune to the fallout from tariffs.

A shopper carries a floral arrangement as a Mother's Day gift in downtown Los Angeles, California. / Credit: Getty Images

Moonshot Farm owner Rebecca Kutzer-Rice said some of the bulbs she uses to grow flowers are imported from Italy and Holland. She just received her first few shipments to be hit with the 10% tariffs.

"We're estimating it could cost our small business anywhere from $40,000 to $50,000 a year, which for a small farm is almost the equivalent of like a salary of another employee," she said.

Some florists say they'll try not to pass on costs to customers.

Mistine Boren, a florist in Austin, Texas, told CBS affiliate CBS19, she's waiting until after Mother's Day to decide if she'll raise prices.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"It's tough," she said. "Our margins are so thin already, and especially when it comes to buying fresh flowers, it's a big splurge and expense for people."

Boren said she's also trying to source more wild, local flowers to avoid the tariffs.

Consumers may just need to be a little more flexible about what types of flowers they buy, but they can still get quality bouquets, Penn said.

"There literally are countless substitutions and florists are just masters at creating something that's still gonna make a big impact," she said.

Sneak peek: The Depraved Heart Murder

Why Hegseth is calling for cuts to senior ranks across U.S. military

Analyzing Trump's announcement of ceasefire with Houthi rebels in Yemen
New information has come to light over the foiled terrorist attack at Lady Gagas free Copacabana Beach concert last Saturday in Brazil.

One of the suspects has revealed their motives for targeting the celebrated artists biggest show of her career, dubbed Mayhem On The Beach.

A crowd of an estimated 2.5 million people gathered on the beach near the Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel for Gagas first Brazilian show since 2012.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Sunday (4 May), the Civil Police of Rio De Janeiro State said that they managed to thwart the bomb attack on the show and had arrested two people after the suspects had allegedly recruited individuals, including minors, to carry out co-ordinated attacks using improvised explosives and Molotov cocktails.

The police operation, dubbed "Operation Fake Monster", was based on a tip from Rio De Janeiros state police intelligence. Felipe Cury, secretary of the Rio police, said authorities believed the suspects sought to target Brazils LGBTQ community.

Lady Gaga performs during her free concert on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro - Saturday 3 May 2025 - AP Photo

A Brazilian judge on Monday ordered the arrest of one man suspected of being involved in an alleged plot. Judge Fabiana Pagel of the Rio Grande do Sul state court did not name the suspect in her ruling, but said he is a man investigated by Rio de Janeiro police as the alleged mastermind of the plot.

Now, Brazilian authorities have shared new details, reporting that a third suspect had been planning to execute a satanist ritual by killing a child or baby at the concert.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Per a CNN report, authorities claim the suspect believes Lady Gaga is a Satanist, and wanted to respond in the same way.

The suspect was arrested and charged with terrorism and inducing crime.

Another suspect was arrested in the state of Rio Grande Do Sul for illegal possession of a firearm, while more than a dozen search and seizure warrants have been carried out across the states of Rio De Janeiro, Mato Grosso, Rio Grande Do Sul and Sao Paulo.

Lady Gagas The MAYHEM Ball tour is underway and heads to Europe end of September, with dates in London, Stockholm, Milan, Barcelona, Berlin, Lyon and Paris.
Chris Garrett died in Ukraine, where he was clearing mines left by retreating Russians

A former British soldier who travelled to Ukraine to help clear landmines has been killed in an incident in the east of the country.

Chris Garrett, 40, died near the town of Izyum, which is strewn with unexploded bombs and mines left over from the Russian retreat in 2022.

On [Tuesday], Prevail received the devastating news that our co-founder and chairman alongside other team members were severely injured in an incident near Izyum, said a spokesman for Prevail, a humanitarian agency founded by Garrett.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We are still gathering information and working alongside military and police officials to uncover the details.

We kindly request respect and privacy for the affected families and will provide timely updates when possible.

Garrett, known as Swampy, went to Ukraine to help soldiers clear mines and unexploded ordnance after Russia invaded Crimea in 2014.

He was recently sentenced in absentia to 14-and-a-half years in jail on terrorism charges by a kangaroo court in Donetsk, which is under Russian control.

Speaking in March, Garrett described the verdict as a pathetic attempt to smear me by those who have murdered, raped and tortured thousands of civilians in Ukraine.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ukrainian authorities have launched an investigation into his death.

Chris Garrett was one of two volunteers who died near Izyum, where they were clearing unexploded ordnance

Garrett was one of two volunteers who died as they operated around Izyum, some 25 miles from the front line, where unexploded ordnance and mines pose a continuing hazard to the civilian population.

A former tree surgeon from the Isle of Man, Mr Garrett spent much of the war detonating artillery shells and landmines placed by Russian troops retreating from their positions.

He told The Sun in 2022: Im much more comfortable being on the front or close to it where I can switch off and just get on with the task.

With a landmine or explosive, its either stable or it blows up  theres no in between. I seem to be better at blowing things up than I do keeping relationships.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The newspaper reported Garrett was among the first to visit the towns of Bucha and Irpin, which were the scenes of Russian massacres in 2022, and that he was among three people seriously wounded trying to clear minefields. A second man died, it said.

Garrett in front of a wrecked machine. The humanitarian agency he founded said his death was devastating

He had also briefly served in the Army as a teenager before being taught how to clear mines in Myanmar.

Following his training, Garrett travelled to Ukraine and fought Russian-backed separatists alongside the Azov Brigade, which was then a volunteer militia.

Describing his work, he told Radio Liberty in 2022: You just know that with every single munition that youre removing  every bit of unexploded ordnance, you are removing a hazard for someone else. And the bulk of the time its civilians that are getting hurt long after the war is finished.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Telegraph has contacted the Foreign Office for comment.

Additional reporting by James Rushton in Kyiv

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.
CHICAGO (WGN)  A former alderman has caught social media praise after being identified as the man who reportedly draped his coat across a sleeping passenger aboard a Chicago Transit Authority L train last week.

The :09 video posted to TikTok last week shows a man seated on the train glancing at another passenger spread across a row of seats.

This kid is likely homeless asleep on the train and this man took off what Im guessing is a very nice expensive down jacket & laid it on him, a caption on Maddie VanCurans Friday video said. It was a good reminder for me that my worst days are someones best days. Just a reminder to be kind because it can go so much farther than we realize.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Community of musicians turns young girls sketchbook and cancer journey into a song

Commenters were quick to ID the man as Edwin Eisendrath, the former alderman of the ward that includes Lincoln Park.

I think this is edwin eisendrath, former alderman and professor at depaul. one of the most inspirational, intelligent and kind people ive met, one commenter said.

He is genuinely so kind and intelligent we would all be lucky to learn from him!!, another user wrote.

Eisendrath previously also served as the CEO of the Chicago Sun-Times and taught a class on American Democracy at DePaul University.

He taught a quarter long class at DePaul that absolutely changed the way that I look at myself and my role in the world, a comment on the video reads. This warms my heart to see.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As of Tuesday afternoon, the video had nearly 2.5 million views and was approaching 2,000 comments.

Eisendrath joined the WGN Evening News on Tuesday to discuss the viral moment.

I saw this young man sprawled across three very uncomfortable seats on the train. My heart went out to him, Eisdendrath told WGN News anchors Ray Cortapassi and Jenna Barnes. It was cold, his clothes didnt fit, his shoes didnt fit, and I just got up quickly, I took off my coat, I laid it over him, I took about a second-and-a-half, I thought I was done and then later in the day, I heard from some former students of mines, I sometimes teach at DePaul, and they said, Did you know youre on TikTok? I did not, and then I heard from others, and then I heard from everybodymy gosh, is social media amazing.

Raise a glass with Robert Lee Fritz, Chicagolands first independent hot glass artist

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Asked why the video resonated with so many people, Eisendrath said that homelessness remains a legitimate problem in Chicago and nationally, and viewers appreciated a small act of empathy in a time where he believes cruelty is celebrated.

I think people they know were better than that, they want to see it, and they want to be part of it, Eisendrath said.

Watch the full interview 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 WGN-TV.
Kyrgyzstans crude oil production declines in 1Q2025

Kyrgyzstan experienced a downturn in crude oil production during the first quarter of 2025, with output falling by around 10 percent year-on-year. The decline follows a modest increase in 2024, indicating a shift in the sectors performance trajectory.

Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register
CHICAGO (WGN)  A former city alderman is being praised on social media after being identified as the man who reportedly draped his coat across a sleeping passenger aboard a Chicago Transit Authority L train last week.

The 9-second video posted to TikTok shows a man seated on the train glancing at another passenger spread across a row of seats.

This kid is likely homeless asleep on the train and this man took off what Im guessing is a very nice expensive down jacket & laid it on him, a caption on Maddie VanCurans video said. It was a good reminder for me that my worst days are someones best days. Just a reminder to be kind because it can go so much farther than we realize.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Community of musicians turns young girls sketchbook and cancer journey into a song

Commenters were quick to ID the man as Edwin Eisendrath, former alderman of the city ward that includes Lincoln Park.

I think this is Edwin Eisendrath, former alderman and professor at DePaul. One of the most inspirational, intelligent and kind people [Ive met], one commenter said.

He is genuinely so kind and intelligent we would all be lucky to learn from him!! another user wrote.

Eisendrath also previously served as the CEO of the Chicago Sun-Times and taught a class on American Democracy at DePaul University.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He taught a quarter long class at DePaul that absolutely changed the way that I look at myself and my role in the world, a comment on the video reads. This warms my heart to see.

As of Tuesday afternoon, the video had nearly 2.5 million views and was approaching 2,000 comments.

Eisendrath spoke with Nexstars WGN on Tuesday to discuss the viral moment.

I saw this young man sprawled across three very uncomfortable seats on the train. My heart went out to him, Eisdendrath said. It was cold, his clothes didnt fit, his shoes didnt fit, and I just got up quickly, I took off my coat, I laid it over him. I took about a second-and-a-half, I thought I was done and then later in the day, I heard from some former students of mine. I sometimes teach at DePaul, and they said, Did you know youre on TikTok? I did not, and then I heard from others, and then I heard from everybodymy gosh, is social media amazing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Raise a glass with Robert Lee Fritz, Chicagolands first independent hot glass artist

Asked why the video resonated with so many people, Eisendrath said that homelessness remains a legitimate problem in Chicago and nationally, and viewers appreciated a small act of empathy in a time where he believes cruelty is celebrated.

I think people, they know were better than that, they want to see it, and they want to be part of it, Eisendrath 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 Queen City News.
CARLISLE, Pa. (WHTM)  The former Frog, Switch facility in Cumberland County will be redeveloped after more than $10 million in grants and loans were awarded.

As abc27 reported on Tuesday, Governor Josh Shapiro announced the funding as part of the new PA SITES program. The funding was presented to the Real Estate Collaborative LLC, which was formed as a subsidiary of the Cumberland Area Economic Development Corporation.

Close

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

ICYMI: Top 5 Stories of the Week

The economic development council says the facility, which was used for about 185 years for industrial purposes, will largely be demolished, and the property will be sold to interested bidders.

The project was awarded a $6,136,698 grant and a $4,091,132 loan, totaling $10,227,830.

A portion of the funding is dedicated to performing environmental inspections and asbestos abatement, according to the Governors office. The council says the existing industrial buildings are in poor condition and will be demolished.

A unique Spanish Mission style building on the property will likely remain on the site, and a fence will soon be built to increase site and public safety, the council added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Raising Canes Harrisburg location sees massive lines night of grand opening

This is an exciting day and a tremendous step forward for the Carlisle community, REC Chair Andrew Notarfrancesco said. With these funds, we will be able to perform the work necessary to make the site economically viable for redevelopment. On behalf of the REC board, we are extremely grateful to our many supporters, which include the Mayor of Carlisle, Sean Shultz, the Cumberland County Commissioners, Kelly Neiderer, Jean Foschi, and Gary Eichelberger, and our state elected officials, as well as the extensive cooperation we received from the current site owners.

Once the demolition and remediation projects are complete, proposals from private entities will be solicited to redevelop the site. The REC says they will then sell the property, noting the location being near both I-81 and I-76, as well as Harrisburg and local rail yards.

Close

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Morning Weather Forecast

In 2023, Frog, Switch Manufacturing Company closed its Carlisle facility after 125 years, with the Board of Directors determining that it was impossible for the company to continue due to international competition and the prohibitive costs of capital improvements necessary to keep the foundry competitive.

Operations at Frog, Switch Manufacturing Company officially ceased on June 30, 2023.

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 ABC27.
Ukraine has been using exploding Magura sea drones to attack Russia's naval fleet.

Ex-Google CEO Eric Schmidt said Taiwan could do something similar to protect itself against China.

Schmidt said the boats act like "torpedoes" that could stop China from a land invasion of Taiwan.

Former Google CEO-turned-"licensed arms dealer" Eric Schmidt believes Taiwan could take a page from the ongoing Ukraine war.

At the Milken Institute Global Conference on Tuesday, Schmidt said the Ukraine-Russia war has fundamentally changed how wars are fought, as countries rely more on remote-controlled drones to fight their battles.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Schmidt, who now leads Relativity Space, a rocket startup, said the recent conflict should push the US to rethink its assumptions around how Taiwan will defend itself against a potential invasion by China.

"Do you really think that we're going to defend Taiwan with all of our aircraft carriers?" Schmidt said. "Let me remind you that we have no particularly good defenses against hypersonic missiles. Nobody has. It's a very hard problem. And those aircraft carriers used to be hard to find, but now they're easy to find because everybody has these LEO constellations for surveillance," he added, referring to low-earth orbit satellites.

Schmidt said one way to deter China's option of leading a land invasion against the neighboring country is to use exploding sea drones similar to the ones Ukraine has been using against Russia's Black Sea Fleet.

Ukraine has been using homemade, uncrewed multi-purpose surface vessels called Magura to stifle Russia's naval fleet, a major accomplishment considering Ukraine doesn't operate any warships in its navy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Magura sea drones have multiple functions, including surveillance and reconnaissance, but they've also been used to take out a helicopter and slam into a Russian military speedboat.

Schmidt said that a company could build similar boats that could "sink even a few feet below the water and then serve as the equivalent of torpedoes."

"I don't run a company in this space, but I would build those boats, get the military to purchase them, and then stage them such that it would not allow for a land invasion by China of Taiwan," he said. "Take away one of their options. Easy."

Schmidt has previously said that drones are the future of warfare.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Forbes reported last year that the tech investor has been secretly testing AI-guided military drones on the front lines in Ukraine.

"For thousands of years, we've had the notion of, stereotypically, a man and a gun fighting another man and a gun, with a horse or what have you," he said at the Milken panel. "We're now breaking that connection forever, because the war will be prosecuted over the internet in one form or another."

Schmidt's representatives did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Read the original article on Business Insider
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  The National Trust for Historic Preservation has released its annual list of the countrys most endangered historic places. The 2025 list includes a hotel from Michigans Black Eden.

The Hotel Casa Blanca, in Idlewild, was included in the famous Negro Motorist Green Book, written by Victor Green to help African Americans find safe places to stay during their travels. Now, its on the NTHPs list.

Which Green Book sites are still standing in Michigan?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Idlewild, often referred to as Black Eden, became one of the regions premier resorts for black families across the Midwest. The town outside of Baldwin served as a go-to vacation destination at a time when Jim Crow laws and racial animosity limited those options.

Founded in 1912, Idlewild quickly became a home away from home for prominent Black families. Vacationers would spend the day swimming, boating and horseback riding and spend the nights dancing and listening to the countrys top African American performers. Louis Armstrong, Count Basie and Aretha Franklin all performed at Hotel Casa Blanca.

Since the end of the Jim Crow era, many formerly segregated Black resorts experienced lower visitation and economic disinvestment, Idlewild included.

Today, (Idlewild) has a population of around 700 residents, and Hotel Casa Blanca has been vacant and deteriorating for over 30 years, the NTHP said.

Hotel Casa Blanca, a one-time draw to Idlewild, Michigan, has been named one of the 11 most endangered historic places in the United States. (Courtesy Roni McGregory/1st Neighbor) Hotel Casa Blanca, a one-time draw to Idlewild, Michigan, has been named one of the 11 most endangered historic places in the United States. (Courtesy Roni McGregory/1st Neighbor)

The hotel was designed and built by Woolsey Coombs in 1949. It was identified in a 2015 report from the U.S. Department of Agricultures Rural Development Agency as a viable development project despite the costs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the NTHP, the building was sold to a nonprofit, 1st Neighbor LLC, which had plans to renovate the hotel into a bed-and-breakfast. But the facility needs an additional $5 million in funding to complete the rehabilitation.

2 resorts recognized for historical relevance to Black community

The project will protect the history inside the walls of the hotel, 1st Neighbor Project Manager Roni McGregory said in a statement. To know that some of the greatest African American musicians, entertainers and thought leaders of the 50s, 60s and 70s stayed and played here is to be honored and supported.

Some of the other locations on the list include Cedar Key, Florida and the Swannanoa River Corridor in North Carolina, which were decimated by Hurricane Helene, and the San Juan Hotel in Texas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A former Mecklenburg County judge arrested on cocaine possession is now wanted for missing his latest court date.

52-year-old Charles Casey Viser was scheduled to appear in court on May 6 following his arrest last month on two counts of felony possession of cocaine and two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia.

The judge overseeing Visers case has issued a bench warrant for his arrest.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Viser was elected to the North Carolina Superior Court in 2020. He later resigned from his duties in July 2022 for unknown reasons.

His final judgment date is scheduled for September 29.

Queen City News is tracking CRIME in your area  >> Latest stories 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 Queen City News.
By Karen Freifeld and Steve Gorman

(Reuters) -A jury in a Tennessee state court on Wednesday acquitted three former Memphis police officers of second-degree murder and all other charges in the 2023 beating death of Black motorist Tyre Nichols.

The all-white jury, which was chosen from out of town, deliberated about 8-1/2 hours before finding Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley and Justin Smith not guilty of murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct and official oppression.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

All five officers charged in the case are Black. Two previously pleaded guilty and testified against their former colleagues.

Nichols, 29, an aspiring photographer, avid skateboarder and father of a young son, was severely beaten by police on January 7, 2023, following a traffic stop near his home, and died in a hospital three days later.

Police video showed five Black officers, who were members of the since-disbanded Scorpion street crimes detective unit, kicking, punching, pepper-spraying and striking Nichols with a baton as he cried out for his mother.

"We are obviously disappointed by today's verdict," said Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy, whose office prosecuted the case. "We respect the jury's decision, but we obviously disagree with it."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Civil rights lawyer Ben Crump, representing Nichols' family, called Thursday's verdict "a devastating miscarriage of justice."

"That brutal, inhumane assault was captured on video, yet the officers responsible were acquitted," Crump said on social media.

The judge had granted a defense motion that jurors be chosen from outside the Memphis area, out of fairness concerns considering intense publicity surrounding the case. They were selected from the Chattanooga area.

Following the verdict, Memphis Mayor Paul Young and Police Chief Cerelyn Davis issued a joint video statement pledging to build trust between police and citizens while improving police training.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Memphis is still healing and that healing demands we work together," Young said, adding that his prayers were with the Nichols family.

Defense lawyers argued in court that their clients pulled Nichols over for driving dangerously and suggested he provoked violence by breaking free and trying to run away, saying a police officer must make split-second decisions based on a subject's actions.

The incident sparked nationwide protests and renewed calls for reform of the U.S. criminal justice system, one of a series of high-profile cases of officers accused of using excessive force in the deaths of Black people and other minorities, including George Floyd in 2020.

In December, during Democratic President Joe Biden's term, the U.S. Justice Department concluded a 17-month civil rights investigation, finding that the Memphis Police Department routinely used excessive force and discriminated against Black people.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The U.S. political climate has shifted since then.

Thursday's verdict came days after Republican President Donald Trump issued an executive order that called for "strengthening and unleashing America's law enforcement," while condemning efforts to "demonize law enforcement and impose legal and political handcuffs."

The three men acquitted on state criminal charges on Thursday drew a mixed verdict when they stood trial in federal court last year. They were convicted of witness tampering in the case but cleared of charges that carried the potential for a life prison sentence.

One of them, Haley, was found guilty on two counts of the lesser charge of deprivation of rights resulting in bodily injury, punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Two other former officers involved in the beating pleaded guilty to state and federal charges and testified against their former colleagues in both cases. They have yet to be formally sentenced, but reached deals with prosecutors that their terms are not to exceed 40 and 15 years, respectively.

(Reporting by Karen Freifeld in New York and Steve Gorman in Los Angeles; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien and Leslie Adler)
Former Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter speaks to news reporters Wednesday at the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center after filing a lawsuit to challenge newly adopted standards for social studies education. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  A group of Oklahoma parents, grandparents and teachers represented by a former Republican attorney general have asked a judge to nullify the states controversial new academic standards for social studies.

Former Attorney General Mike Hunter filed the groups lawsuit Wednesday morning in Oklahoma County District Court, alleging the adoption process was so flawed that the standards might not have been legal by the time they came before the state Legislature. Lawmakers have since allowed the standards to take effect.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The plaintiffs allege the Oklahoma State Department of Education failed to follow its own rules for transparency when drafting the social studies standards and when presenting them to the states top school board for approval.

The reason we have rules, particularly in a democratic legislative setting, is that at the end of the day, due process is followed (with) adequate notice and an opportunity to be heard, Hunter said during a news conference Wednesday. And I think that what happened failed that test.

Hunter said he will ask a district judge to temporarily bar the standards from taking effect while the lawsuit is pending.

Academic standards mandate the topics that public schools must teach to students at each grade level. They are reviewed and updated every six years.

State Superintendent Ryan Walters speaks during a meeting of the Oklahoma State Board of Education on April 24 in Oklahoma City. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice)

State Superintendent Ryan Walters led the process of developing the new version for social studies. After the lawsuit was filed Wednesday, Walters blamed criticism of the social studies standards on teacher unions, none of whom are a party to the case.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said the new standards are the most pro-American standards in the nation, rooted in the founding principles that built this country and shaped our state.

Thats exactly what Oklahoma parents want their kids to learn, Walters said in a statement.

The seven plaintiffs  made up of three public school parents, two grandparents and two public school teachers  contend the standards present a distorted view of social studies that intentionally favors an outdated and blatantly biased perspective. The new standards also dont align with best practices, Advanced Placement or college social studies courses, nor with current textbooks, their lawsuit states.

Half of the Oklahoma State Board of Education said they were unaware at the time they approved the standards on Feb. 27 that the final version had significant differences from the original draft posted publicly in December.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Only the December draft was accessible on the agencys website at the time of the board vote, and one board member, Mike Tinney, said this was the version he studied before voting on the standards. The Education Department didnt publicly post the final draft until weeks later.

State Superintendent Ryan Walters, center, speaks at the head of the table where the Oklahoma State Board of Education meets on Feb. 27 in Oklahoma City. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice)

Email records the agency provided indicate the board members received the updated draft of the standards at 4 p.m. the day before their Feb. 27 meeting began the next morning. Walters said he provided the final version but it was up to the board members to read it.

Walters and his staff didnt acknowledge during the Feb. 27 meeting that new language had been added, including claims of discrepancies in 2020 election results.

Only one board member, Deatherage, voted against the standards, saying he didnt have enough time to properly review the full document.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Members of the board and Gov. Kevin Stitt encouraged the Legislature to return the standards to the state Board of Education for another vote, but Republican majorities in the House and Senate opted not to take action, allowing the standards to take effect by default.

Hunter said the process that produced the new standards should be examined from alpha to omega. He said he intends to have Walters, state Board of Education members and others involved in developing the standards interviewed as witnesses.

Former Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter speaks to news reporters May 7, 2025, at the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice)

The lawsuit notes that the agency hasnt fully disclosed the names of all the individuals involved in the drafting committees and in focus groups that gave feedback, unlike in past years of standards revisions. Only an executive committee made up of mostly out-of-state conservative media personalities and far-right-wing policy advocates was identified.

Our goal is to get to the truth of things, Hunter said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lawsuit filed Wednesday might not be the only legal challenge against the standards.

The national law group Americans United for Separation of Church and State also might sue, said Alex Luchenitser, the organizations associate vice president and associate legal director.

Americans United sees law violations both in the non-transparent way the standards were adopted and in their inclusion of Christian beliefs, Luchenitser said.

The new standards require elementary schools to teach biblical stories and the teachings of Jesus that influenced the American colonists, founders and culture. Instruction on Judeo-Christian values would continue in fifth and eighth grade.

Alex Luchenitser, of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, speaks after a June 5 hearing at the Oklahoma County Courthouse in Oklahoma City. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice)

The standards attempt to promote Christianity in the classroom above all other religions, Luchenitser said. They attempt to promote Christianity to first and second graders, very young and impressionable children. Parents need to have control about how their children are brought up with respect to religion, and religion should be taught in the home and in the house of worship. It shouldnt be taught in the classroom.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Walters has called church-state separation a myth and repeatedly pushed for the Bible to have more of a presence in public schools. Understanding biblical teachings will give important context to key events and figures in American history, he has said.

Last year, he ordered all Oklahoma school districts to incorporate the Bible into their lesson plans and to keep a copy of it in every classroom  a mandate that Americans United has challenged in court. Walters later purchased over 500 copies of Lee Greenwoods God Bless the USA Bible, an edition known for having President Donald Trumps endorsement.

Walters said the new social studies standards will teach students to be proud of America.

Were proud of these standards, and well keep fighting for an education system that puts students and our country first, he said.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
OWENSBORO, Ky. (WEHT)  Former Owensboro Public Schools Superintendent Matthew Constant was sentenced to 360 months in federal prison (30 years) on several counts Wednesday afternoon.

Constant plead guilty to nine counts of child sexual exploitation in court earlier this year. The charges include two counts of online enticement of a minor, three counts of receipt of child pornography, two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and two counts of transferring obscene material to a minor.

Constants defense team claimed with the profession Constant was in, that might create some problems. Defense also argued that Constant was expressing feelings that go beyond remorse. Defense was asking for 20 years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The prosecution argued that with Constants position, a severe deterrent was needed to deter future behavior due to the trust and authority Constant was put under. The prosecution was asking for 30 years, and that was part position and the length this activity went on.

Constant made a statement to the court, expressing accountability for his actions. He says he made some grave mistakes he wishes he could take back. He also says he was determined to find new purpose and hope to contribute to others. Constant apologized for bringing shame to family and the church community in Owensboro.

While weighing factors, the judge says it is possible that something happened in Constants childhood that triggered the behavior, but there was nothing more despicable than committing crimes against children.

Ongoing course of abuse is not a mistake, the judge stated, explaining that it was intentional abuse of children that went on for years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The judge also said there was evidence that showed Constant encouraged the children to destroy evidence.

Before handing down the sentence, the judge said that if there was evidence of physical abuse, life in prison would have been sufficient.

In addition to the sentence, Constant was ordered to be under supervised release for the rest of his life.

There is no parole in the federal system.

This is a developing story.

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).
LONDON (Reuters) - Former U.S. President Joe Biden said his successor Donald Trump's pressure on Ukraine to give up territory to Russia is a form of "modern-day appeasement" that will never satisfy Moscow.

Speaking to the BBC in what the broadcaster said was his first interview since leaving the White House, Biden said Russian President Vladimir Putin believes Ukraine is part of "mother Russia" and "anybody who thinks he's going to stop is just foolish".

"I just don't understand how people think that if we allow a dictator, a thug, to decide he's going to take significant portions of land that aren't his, that that's going to satisfy him," Biden said in the interview which was broadcast on Wednesday and the BBC said was recorded on Monday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump has changed U.S. policy toward the war in Ukraine, pressing Kyiv to agree to a ceasefire while easing pressure on Russia, which launched a full-scale invasion of its neighbour in 2022. Trump has said he wants to stop the killing.

In the interview, Biden expressed concern that "Europe is going to lose confidence in the certainty of America and the leadership of America".

Europe's leaders were "wondering, well, what do I do now?... Can I rely on the United States? Are they going to be there?" he said.

The former president said he was dismayed by the explosive meeting in February in the White House between Trump, his top officials and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

"I found it sort of beneath America in the way that took place," Biden said.

(Reporting by Kate Holton and William Schomberg; Editing by Andrew Heavens and Ros Russell)
DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, May 7. Tajikistan has presented the results of a joint research initiative conducted with Korean assistance ahead of the feasibility study for the ground metro system construction project in Dushanbe, Trend reports via the Ministry of Transport of Tajikistan.

The presentation took place in the presence of Tajikistans Minister of Transport, Azim Ibrohim, and representatives from Korea National Railway (KNR) and the Export-Import Bank of Korea (KEXIM).

During the meeting, Ibrohim emphasized that the metro project is among the top priorities in the country's transport sector. He noted that negotiations are ongoing for the implementation of the project's main phase.

According to the KEXIM, the Korean side is committed to proceeding without delay and aims to begin the first phase of the project as scheduled, between 2028 and 2033.

Lee Seong-hae, CEO of Korea National Railway, confirmed the company's strong interest in the project and expressed readiness to participate in its future stages.

According to the ministry, Tajikistan and South Korea are currently implementing four small-scale transport projects, one of which is the preliminary feasibility study for the construction of a metro system in Dushanbe.

For reference, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Ministry of Transport of Tajikistan and KNR on March 14, 2022. In 2023, both sides completed the initial research phase. A pre-feasibility study officially commenced in September 2024 and is currently being carried out by Korean consulting firm Daehan Consultants Co. Ltd.

Korea National Railway (KNR), established in January 2004, is a state-owned entity responsible for managing, designing, and overseeing railway infrastructure and high-speed rail networks in South Korea. KEXIM, founded in 1976, serves as South Koreas official export credit agency, supporting economic cooperation through financial instruments.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
AUSTIN (KXAN)  A jury found a former University of Texas professor guilty to charges of possession of child pornography on May 1.

According to the Williamson County District Attorneys Office, Mario Villarreal, 54, of Round Rock, was sentenced to serve 12 years in prison. He was also fined $10,000. The DAs office said the sentence was related to five cases.

Investigators executed a search warrant at Villarreals home in 2020. A digital forensic examination of devices seized from his home uncovered numerous images and videos constituting child pornography, including material depicting the sexual assault of toddlers and infants, according to the DAs office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

RELATED | Affidavit: University of Texas professor exchanged child porn with woman in Tennessee

At the time of the charges, Villarreal was employed as a professor at the University of Texas. The university said he was placed on leave pending the investigation.

UT said it conducted a criminal background check on Villarreal when he was hired in 2019; however, no prior criminal conduct or charges were found.

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.
HENRICO COUNTY, Va. (WRIC)  Erin Strotman, the former Virginia nurse accused of abusing and neglecting several premature babies while they received care in Henrico Doctors Hospitals neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), is now facing 20 total charges.

The eight new charges, four counts of child abuse with wounding and four counts of malicious wounding, were announced during a hearing in Henrico County Circuit Court on Wednesday.

Strotman was initially charged with two counts in January after babies were found with unexplainable fractures at the NICU. Additional charges were filed against her in March and April.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During Wednesdays hearing, the Commonwealth asked to revoke Strotmans bond due to the number of charges she is facing, but the judge said her bond will remain in place.

Nurses license suspended with new details of abuse, neglect of 7 NICU babies

Strotman remains on house arrest with GPS monitoring and is not allowed to leave her home unless she is meeting with her attorney, attending a court proceeding, or attending a medical appointment, according to Henrico County Commonwealths Attorney Shannon Taylor.

The newest charges come from alleged incidents in 2023 that involved four babies, identified in court documents as Z.M., T.M., M.L. and N.H.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Court records show that the 20 charges stem from the following nine incident dates:

July 1, 2022: Malicious wounding and abusing a child to cause serious injury

June 19, 2023: Malicious wounding and abusing a child to cause serious injury

July 29, 2023: Malicious wounding and abusing a child to cause serious injury

Aug. 12, 2023: Malicious wounding and abusing a child to cause serious injury

Aug. 25, 2023: Malicious wounding and abusing a child to cause serious injury

Oct. 24, 2024: Malicious wounding and abusing a child to cause serious injury

Oct. 29, 2024: Malicious wounding and abusing a child to cause serious injury

Nov. 10, 2024: Two counts of malicious wounding, abusing a child to cause serious injury and two counts of abusing a child with disregard to his/her life

Nov. 13, 2024: Abusing a child with disregard for his/her life

Following the hearing, Taylor urged any families who believe their baby to have been under Strotmans care to contact both her office and police.

If there are any other families, reach out to my office and Henrico Polices non-emergency number, so we can ensure we are doing our obligation to make sure that we are reviewing every matter to ensure the safety of our babies, Taylor said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Days ago, the Virginia Board of Nursing ordered that Strotmans nursing license be suspended, and accused Strotman of abusing and neglecting seven babies  four in 2023 and three in 2024. The order also described surveillance video that the board said shows Strotman using excessive force on multiple infants.

You can view continuing coverage here. Nexstars WRIC has been following the case since December 2024.

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.
ALBANY, N.Y. (WWTI)  Fort Drum was saluted at the New York State Capitol in Albany on Wednesday.

Representatives from the installation made the trip to showcase significant contributions of the U.S. Armys 10th Mountain Division stationed at Fort Drum.

Fort Drum injects $2.55 billion into NNY economy in 2024

The day was also used to gratitude to military personnel and their families while highlighting the important relationship between the military and the north country community.

Fort Drum is not just a military base; it is the heartbeat of our community and a cornerstone of our regions economy. The motto of Fort Drum, Climb to Glory, perfectly captures the tenacity of the 10th Mountain Division soldiers who train relentlessly to defend our freedoms around the globe. Their commitment embodies our State motto, Excelsiorever upward. I am honored to host Fort Drum Day to ensure that my fellow Senators and legislators throughout New York recognize the crucial role that Fort Drum plays in our community and our economy. Today, we celebrate the unwavering dedication of our military personnel and their families. New York State Senator Mark Walczyk

The day was spent welcoming soldiers in the Senate chamber, along with interactive displays and demonstrations that illuminate the mission and significance of the 10th Mountain Division. Nestled in Jefferson County, Fort Drum is a key employer in the North Country, creating thousands of civilian jobs and supporting tens of thousands more in the surrounding region, contributing an astonishing $2.5 billion to the local economy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Three years after turning prime public land over to a developer, Fort Lauderdale commissioners are now asking him to prove he has the money to build the food hall, cultural center and Arts Park he promised he would.

During a public meeting on Tuesday, developer Jeff John didnt show proof the financing is in place.

The commission agreed to declare John and his company One Stop FTL in default on the contract. He now has 30 days to cure the default by proving he has the money in place.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If he misses the deadline, Mayor Dean Trantalis told the South Florida Sun Sentinel he will recommend the commission terminate the agreement.

The land, located in Flagler Village in the 300 block of North Andrews Avenue, remains in limbo, fenced off from the public.

John, a club and restaurant owner known around town as a nightlife guru, has rights to the land for up to 100 years under the comprehensive agreement.

Fort Lauderdale commissioners approved the controversial plan in March 2022, but have been waiting ever since for the $140 million project to break ground.

Alarmed by the lack of progress, Trantalis requested weeks ago that John come in person to a commission meeting with proof he has financing for the project.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

John stood at the podium Tuesday and assured commissioners the financing was in place.

I am here to tell you we have a signed commitment for the full funding of this project, he said.

Did you bring that with you today? Trantalis asked.

John had no documentation in hand to show that. He also declined to name the lender.

We dont look at iPads

Assistant City Manager Susan Grant told the commission John allowed city staff to look at an updated financial commitment on his iPad on Nov. 25.

We werent given a hard copy of that, but we were able to look at it on his iPad, Grant said.

Vice Mayor John Herbst, an expert in finance and accounting, was astounded. We dont look at iPads, Herbst said. We get copies of stuff, and we call people up and we verify it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Herbst asked Grant why the city was not given a hard copy of the financial commitment.

I think the confidentiality of the commitment, she answered.

I dont think thats consistent with our comprehensive agreement, Herbst said. Theres nothing confidential in what we do.

Whos the lender?

Herbst asked John which company was loaning him the money.

John said it was a global firm but declined to name the company. John told the commission he had signed the document to borrow $140 million, but the money has not yet been transferred to an account.

Well be looking to close the deal in the next 30 to 45 days, John said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

John was accompanied by a man he said was helping with the financing. The man told commissioners he had the document they were looking for but did not have permission to release it.

I work together with the financial company in New York that has secured this, the man said. I work together with (a man) who is one of the owners of the company that works with (John).

At first, the man said he worked with a London-based company known as BCG to help secure $140 million in financing for the projects initial phase.

Herbst asked if he meant Boston Consulting Group.

Uh, hold on one second, the man said as he pulled out his phone. Just give me one second. Im sorry. Its BGC London. Its an overseas funding source. But they specialize in city projects.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Herbst drilled on.

Im still not comfortable with whos providing the financing, he said. So weve got BGC Group, formerly BGC Partners, formerly Cantor Fitzgerald. I want to make sure we are talking about the same company. I want on the record that you are working with BGC Group, successor to Cantor Fitzgerald, massive investment bank out of New York. Has offices in London. Is that who were talking about? Yes or no, on the record right now, definitively.

The man had a five-word response: I have to verify that.

Herbst was aghast at the answer.

If Im borrowing $140 million from somebody, I know whos giving it to me, he said. I do finance for a living. I work with companies that are doing capital fundraising. I know whos giving me money, guys. Ive never in my life experienced anything like this. You dont know who is giving you $140 million?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

John spoke up. I do, he said. But I dont feel comfortable going on the record.

Herbst replied: I just want the name.

John told Herbst: They are a global company.

On Wednesday, the Sun Sentinel reached out to city officials and John requesting the mans name and title. The city officials said they did not know and John did not respond to a text and phone call.

Youre empty-handed

During Tuesdays meeting, Trantalis grilled John on why he showed up without paperwork.

Now you kind of knew we were going to talk about this today, right? Trantalis said. Why wouldnt you have the documents with you instead of postponing it yet again? Were going to make a decision today. And weve been talking about this for awhile. Youre empty-handed. Why would you not have it in hand today?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The comprehensive agreement took effect on Nov. 1, 2022. Under the contract, One Stop FTL was required to show proof of financial commitment from a lender within 90 days of that date.

That did not happen, city officials said.

The city was provided letters from Truist and Banyan Development in 2023, but they were non-committal letters that only showed a possible interest in providing financial backing to the project.

After hearing the discussion, Commissioner Ben Sorensen suggested terminating the contract.

I just dont see anything to substantiate moving forward, he said. I wish I did, but I dont.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Commissioner Steve Glassman argued the project was worth saving.

Im not OK with this commission saying we want to scrap this project, he said. I think that after all these years, it would be a shame and travesty and a loss for the district and a loss for the neighborhood. Im hoping this works out. I really want to see this project.

Under the terms of the contract, the developer is not required to pay the city a license fee until the year after the project gets a certificate of occupancy. The first year requires no payment. The second year requires a payment of $250,000 followed by $500,000 in the third year, $750,000 in the fourth year; $1 million in the fifth year; $1.25 million in the sixth year; and $1.5 million in the seventh year. At that point, the payment would be capped at $1.5 million but increase each year based on the Consumer Price Index, but no greater than 3%.

Smoke and mirrors

Several residents spoke at the meeting, urging the city to call off the deal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is all smoke and mirrors, Anne Hilmer told commissioners. This is another example of another bad P3 deal (public-private partnership) for the city. The land has not been usable for over three years. In the future, we need to build in more safeguards in the agreements for our P3s because this one stinks.

Sister Robin Merrill, an activist who led several protests in the months before the deal won approval, also spoke.

I think we need to say game over, she said. Times up.

Marc Dickerman also urged the commission to walk away.

Lets turn it into a public park and turn away from this deal, he said. I think its a raw deal. I think you should terminate the contract. Theres something that doesnt smell right here.

Susannah Bryan can be reached at sbryan@sunsentinel.com. Follow me on X @Susannah_Bryan
NEW ORLEANS, La. (KTAL/KMSS)  A federal operation to identify, track, and arrest child predators led to charges for multiple individuals from across Louisiana.

The FBI New Orleans Bureau announced Operation Restore Justice was carried out in Louisiana from April 29 to May 2, as part of a national initiative to identify and prosecute child predators. The operation coincided with the nationwide observance of Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, partnering law enforcement with FBI agents nationwide.

The FBI is unwavering in its fight to protect children, said Jonathan Tapp, Special Agent in Charge of FBI New Orleans. Each arrest is a powerful testament to the tireless efforts of the FBI and our dedicated law enforcement partners to protect the most vulnerable among us. It reaffirms the FBIs commitment to pursuing justice for victims and hold predators accountable.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

More Louisiana News

The arrests in Louisiana were made following a joint, undercover operation by the FBI, the Alexandria Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police. One of the Louisiana suspects will be prosecuted by the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Louisiana, two will face state charges prosecuted by the Rapides Parish District Attorney, and a fourth was indicted in the Eastern District of Louisiana on five separate counts.

This nationwide effort has made its way to the Western District of Louisiana and the U.S. Attorneys Office stands ready to join with the FBI and our state and local law enforcement partners to continue this investigation, said Acting U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook. These types of crimes against minor children are reprehensible, and we are committed to doing what we can to get these child predators off of our streets.

United States Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel announced the operations success during a news conference on Wednesday morning.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  Four juveniles have been charged with murder after an alleged robbery turned into a shooting in east Columbus.

According to Columbus police, two boys, ages 12 and 15, were arrested on May 2 and charged with the murder of 34-year-old Jamal Jones, who was found shot at The Villages at Eden Crossing apartment complex in the Shady Lane neighborhood.

Roosters on Olentangy River Road near OSU expects to reopen in the fall

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Officers arrived at the residence in the 1300 block of Fountain Lane just before 4 a.m. on April 28 and Columbus Fire medics took Jones to a hospital. He was pronounced dead at 4:38 a.m.

Detectives interviewed four individuals in the suspected involvement in Jones murder and the robbery of Jones and another victim. Charges were filed against the two juveniles while two female juveniles were interviewed and released.

On Tuesday, the two female teenagers  15 and 17 years old  were arrested for their involvement, police said. They are being held at the Franklin County Juvenile Detention Center.

All four are charged with aggravated murder, murder and aggravated robbery. The two teenage girls appeared in juvenile court Wednesday for a preliminary hearing. The girls parents asked that the suspects be released into their custody, but a judge turned down the request, remanding the teens to juvenile detention.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lashawna Williams, Jamal Jones sister, said losing her brother has been incredibly tough on the family, imagining her life without Jamal, but she plans on keeping his memory alive.

Licking County governments in legal fight over proposal to address growth

He was a beautiful person inside and out, and I just want the world to know who he is, who he was, who he still is to us, Williams said. He might not be here in a flash, but hes here in spirit. I feel him every day.

The two juvenile boys are scheduled to appear for a hearing on May 14.

CPD is asking anyone with information regarding this incident to call the Homicide Unit at (614) 645-4730 or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at (614) 461-TIPS (8477).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
This is the view of the Aldape Good Neighbor Authority Project, located about two miles north of Lucky Peak, after a thinning project. The commercial harvest done on this 2023 project is similar to the harvest design plans for the Deer Point Forest Stewardship Project. (Courtesy of the U.S. Forest Service)

A four-year, 1,300-acre project  dubbed the Deer Point Forest Stewardship Project  is beginning soon in the Boise National Forest, the U.S. Forest Service announced.

The project, which is one mile southwest of the Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area, aims to help to protect the areas wildland urban interface and critical recreation resources by improving forest health and reducing the risk of catastrophic wildfire, the Forest Service said in an April 30 press release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The project will include commercial logging for certain species of trees in the area and the removal of trees that are hazardous to the public due to insects and disease. Some of that tree removal work will require some trail and road closures to keep residents safe, the Forest Service said.

Boise County will close Bogus Basin Road from mile marker 9.8 to the paved Bogus Basin parking lot, the press release said. That closure includes all vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian traffic from 8-11 a.m. and 1-3 p.m., Monday through Friday, beginning May 12 through June 20. Bogus Basin Road will be open all day on weekends and Memorial Day, according to the Forest Service.

We understand these temporary closures will be disruptive so we worked with our partners at Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area and nearby residents to minimize the impacts as best we could, said Mountain Home District Ranger Adriene Holcomb in the press release. Cutting down, yarding and hauling trees can be hazardous work, and our contractors must be given the time and space to do their job safely.

More area, trail and road closures will begin on May 12 and be in effect from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, allowing for weekday evening and all weekend use, the press release said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Closures will then be adjusted as work progresses through 2028 to minimize impact on recreation users, according to the Forest Service. Updates will be posted to the Boise National Forests alerts website and the forests Facebook page.

According to the Forest Service, trails that will have partial or full closures at times during the project include Boise Ridge Road Trail, Eastside, Sweet Connie, DB Connector, Freddys Stack Rock, Pats, Mr. Big, Ponderosa Pine Overlook and Sinker Creek. Trail closures will be kept up to date on the Ridge to Rivers Interactive Trails Map website.

As someone who uses trails regularly, I get that these short-term closures can be frustrating. However, the long-term advantages of a more fire-resilient forest and safer trails make the temporary inconvenience worthwhile, said Bogus Basin General Manager Brad Wilson in the press release.

The project tackles two forest health needs within the areas wildland urban interface.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

First, removing built-up vegetation will reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires and be an asset to any future firefighting efforts, the press release said. Second, the prioritized removal of Douglas-fir will decrease the areas susceptibility to dwarf mistletoe infection and bark beetle mortality specific to that species. Ponderosa pine will largely be left standing, which are more fire tolerant and less susceptible to the insects and pathogens present in the area.

The project is part of the Forest Services Sinker Creek  Boise Ridge Forest Health Project and Bogus Basin Forest Health Project decisions.

Funds generated from the commercial timber sale will be used to fund landscape restoration during the project, including road reconstruction and improved stream habitat, according to the Forest Service. Non-commercial tree thinning and ponderosa pine planting are planned for a future phase of the project, the press release said.

The Deer Point Forest Stewardship Project is a continuation of similar active forest management projects led by the Boise National Forest to improve forest health and protect the wildland urban interface in the Boise Foothills. Recent projects include the 315-acre Bogus Basin Forest Health Project and the 43-acre Aldape Good Neighbor Authority Project completed in conjunction with the Idaho Department of Lands.

For more information, call the Mountain Home Ranger District at 208-587-7961.

This is the Deer Point Forest Stewardship Project Closure Order Map showing the temporary Forest Service trail, road and area closures from May 12 to June 20, 2025. Not included is Boise Countys separate closure of a portion of Bogus Basin Road. Closures will be updated as progress is made throughout the 1,300-acre project area. (Map courtesy of the U.S. Forest Service)

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
PARIS (Reuters) - Supporters of two French citizens held in Iran for three years staged rallies on Wednesday to demand their release as France's foreign ministry said it would soon file a legal complaint against Tehran at the International Court of Justice.

Cecile Kohler and her partner Jacques Paris have been held since May 2022. Iranian state television aired a video later that year with them appearing to confess to acting on behalf of French intelligence services, which Paris categorically denies.

France has accused Iran of keeping Kohler and Paris in conditions akin to torture in Tehran's Evin prison and not allowing proper consular protection. Iranian officials deny the charge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Foreign Ministry spokesman Christophe Lemoine said France would file a legal complaint in the coming days at the ICJ over the issue of consular protection.

"It is necessary to recall one thing: Cecile and Jacques are innocent and are being held arbitrarily under shocking, inhumane conditions," Lemoine told reporters.

Supporters of Kohler, a 40-year-old humanities teacher, and Paris, 71, a former maths teacher, gathered in Paris and eastern France on Wednesday to mark their three years in prison.

French officials have toughened their language in recent months towards Iran, notably over the advancement of its nuclear programme and regional activities, but also the detention of European citizens in the country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lemoine said about 20 European nationals were being held in Iran ranging from researchers to journalists and tourists.

France was behind a push by the European Union in April to add sanctions on Iranian officials and entities linked to the judicial and prison system. French officials said further sanctions could not be ruled out.

In recent years, Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards have arrested dozens of dual nationals and foreigners, mostly on charges related to espionage and security.

Rights groups have accused Iran of trying to extract concessions from other countries through such arrests.

Iran, which does not recognise dual nationality, denies taking prisoners to gain diplomatic leverage.

(Reporting by John Irish; Editing by Gareth Jones)
PARIS (Reuters) - French President Emmanuel Macron said he would pursue the progressive lifting of European Union sanctions against Syria if Syria stuck to its current path, and added he would lobby the United States to also follow suit in this regard.

Macron's comments came as he hosted Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Paris.

"I told the president that if he continues on his path, we would do the same. Namely by first progressively lifting European sanctions, and then we would also lobby our American partners to follow suit on this matter," said Macron.

(Reporting by John Irish; Editing by Sudip Kar-Gupta)
Iran sees decline in housing and construction sector

In the first month of the current Iranian year (March 21 - April 20, 2025), loans from Iranian banks to the housing and construction sector dropped by nearly 30 percent compared to the same period last year. The total credit provided amounted to around 111 trillion rials (about $199 million), a decrease from 158 trillion rials ($3.77 billion) in the previous year. The loans included working capital, construction activity funding, development projects, and housing self-employment.

Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A former Fred Meyer employee who stole over $60,000 from the company pleaded guilty to theft on Tuesday, the Clackamas County District Attorneys Office announced.

Oregon City woman Rainbow Melodi Stammet, 43, was convicted on two counts of first-degree aggravated theft and first-degree theft. Officials say other charges were dismissed as part of her plea agreement. She has been paying restitution to Fred Meyer and has no prior criminal history.

Officials say Stammet had been working for the retailer for two years when loss prevention officers noticed her taking cash from a self-checkout station at the Oregon City store in March 2023.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When confronted, Stammet told an Oregon City police officer that she stole the money to support her gambling habit, spending some of the cash at a local video poker outlet, the DAs office said.

Fred Meyer officials said they couldnt determine the total amount that was stolen but that the thefts started occurring in May 2022.

Stammet will be sentenced on Aug. 4.

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.
Frederick County District Judge Earl W. Bartgis Jr. has retired, creating a vacancy that will need to be filled by Maryland Gov. Wes Moore.

Bartgis was named to the bench in 2013 by then-Gov. Martin OMalley. He was sworn in the following year for a 10-year term.

A notice from the Trial Courts Judicial Nominating Commission for Frederick County, a 13-member body that recommends candidates to fill judicial vacancies, says Bartgis retirement took effect March 24.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The commission is currently accepting applications to fill the Frederick County District Court vacancy.

Candidates for the judgeship must be U.S. citizens, residents of Maryland for at least five years, residents of Frederick County for at least six months, registered to vote in Maryland and at least 30 years old at the time of their appointment. All candidates must also be members of the Maryland Bar.

Applicants must complete the personal data questionnaire on the Maryland Judiciarys website at www.mdcourts.gov/judgeselect. The application also includes two writing samples.

Application materials should be sent to Debra Kaminski or Ebonye Caldwell in the Administrative Office of the Courts, Human Resources Division, 187 Harry S. Truman Parkway, Fourth Floor, Annapolis, MD 21401.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The deadline to submit the questionnaire and two writing samples is May 15 at 4:30 p.m. Once the deadline passes, the names of all candidates for the Frederick County District Court vacancy will be made public.

The commission will meet to interview all candidates before voting on a nomination. There are no pool candidates who will automatically be considered for the Frederick County District Court vacancy.

Pool candidates are people who were previously nominated for, but not appointed to, a certain bench.

The person appointed by Moore to serve on the Frederick County District Court will have to be approved by the Maryland state Senate. Unlike Circuit or Appellate Court appointees, District Court appointees are not subject to election.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Questions about the application process can be directed to Kaminski at 410-260-1271 or Caldwell at 410-260-1289 at the Administrative Office of the Courts.

People can also contact the office via the Maryland Relay Service at 800-735-2258.
New Mexico will soon offer free high school equivalency tests to qualifying residents. (Getty Images)

One hurdle to achieving a high school equivalency certificate will be removed next month when the New Mexico Higher Education Department starts providing free tests to qualifying residents.

House Bill 167, sponsored by Rep. Joy Garratt (D-Albuquerque), requires the state department to waive test costs for New Mexico residents who are at least 16; are not enrolled in secondary school; do not have a high school diploma or equivalency certificate; and who have passed an official practice test showing they are likely to pass the official test.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham signed the bill on April 7, making New Mexico the fifth state in the country to offer residents free equivalency tests. The bill goes into effect on June 20.

Auriella Ortiz, spokesperson for the Higher Education Department, told Source NM in a written statement that removing the financial burden of tests is expected to increase test participation by 20% or more over the next three years. She added that the state has seen a nearly 50% increase in people taking high school equivalency tests since 2021.

Tests can cost more than $145 dollars per test, including fees for the test itself as well as proctoring.

The passage of House Bill 167 will have a huge impact for our residents and allow them a pathway to basic education and potentially a pathway to higher education at New Mexicos colleges and universities, Ortiz wrote. This legislation removes obstacles that will positively impact tens of thousands of New Mexicans.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ortiz explained that the department currently has an ad hoc voucher program to provide free tests to New Mexicans, but there are still some barriers present.

She said New Mexicans who earn a high school diploma or equivalent credential earn $6,465 more annually than those without.

We should note that, given the average increase in salary just mentioned, the free testing system will pay for itself each year in income tax alone. Its a win for the state, Ortiz wrote. Just as we have invested in tuition-free college and a trained workforce, a program of free high school equivalency tests for all New Mexicans in need is part of our states continued push for a strong economy.

Rio Rancho Public Schools Communications Director Wyndham Kemsley told Source NM in an email that while the district is not directly involved in high school equivalency testing, its officials are pleased that the state is expanding access to credentials.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While the main priority of RRPS is to help our students attain high school diplomas through traditional routes, widening access to high school equivalency testing will undoubtedly benefit our states workforce, he wrote.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
(Michael Benevides)

NEW MEXICO (KRQE)  Its 3 a.m. March 3, 2024, outside the popular Old Town bar, Outpost 1706 Brewhouse. A hooded stranger is up to no good. He shatters the front door with a rock, climbs through broken glass, and burglarizes the facility. Video surveillance leads detectives to arrest 28-year-old Michael Benevides. If there was ever an open and shut case, it would be Michael Benevides, said former State Police Chief and Outpost 1706 Brewhouse owner, Pete Kassetas. Armed with evidence catching Benevides in the act of breaking into his bar, Kassetas said the police got him dead to rights. But if you thought compelling evidence is enough in a criminal case, think again. Was justice done in the break-in case of Michael Benevides? Absolutely not. Justice was not done, bar owner Pete Kassetas said.

Since 2017, Michael Benevides has been arrested 19 times for everything from auto burglary to battery on a peace officer, yet not once has he gone to trial. Each time hes arrested, his case is dismissed in court.

(Jerry Perea)

Jerry Perea has been repeatedly arrested for everything from burglary, battery, and armed robbery to false imprisonment, child abuse, and assault. Perea has been charged in two dozen criminal cases. However, in court, they were all dismissed.

(Fredrick Acosta)

Frederick Acosta, 32, has been accused of unlawful activity in 28 separate criminal cases. None went to trial.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Benevides, Perea, and Acosta are just three examples of repeat criminal defendants who escaped justice multiple times, not because theyre lucky, but because theyre mentally ill. Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman said the criminal justice system is absolutely not working in how it handles mentally ill individuals who commit crimes. Right now, when it comes to competency in the criminal justice system, it is the ultimate revolving door  and it makes me sick to my stomach, Bregman said.

In New Mexico, defendants who are believed to be mentally ill are examined by psychologists to evaluate their fitness to stand trial. The law requires that a defendant understands certain things and participate in their defense, and understand the charges against them. And if they dont, then theyre incompetent to stand trial, UNM Clinical Psychologist Dr. Jeff Younggren said. Defendants who are evaluated and found to be incompetent to stand trial are usually set free, and their charges are dropped. There are exceptions, but for the most part, thats the law.

(Loyola Volpert)

For example, after 58-year-old Loyola Volpert was arrested in 2020 for shoplifting, criminal damage to property, trespass, and assault, a judge ruled she was incompetent to stand trial, and the charges were tossed out. Since 2019, Volpert has been charged with unlawful activity and found to be incompetent to stand trial in 30 separate cases.

Loyola Volpert lapel arrest video below:

KRQE News 13s investigation finds a multitude of defendants wreaking havoc on court dockets overloaded with mentally ill defendants. Due to strict state laws that protect the civil rights of defendants, judges are powerless to hold them accountable. In most cases, the only option is to dismiss cases and release accused offenders from jail.

(Pierre Williams)

Pierre Williams, 39, has been charged with criminal activity in 115 cases. However, each time he is hauled into court, Williams is ruled incompetent, and the cases are dismissed. Whats wrong with this picture is people who are committing crimes are being let back out in the community to commit more crimes, D.A. Sam Bregman said. Someone being arrested 100 times, come on, thats ridiculous. Its crazy that they keep getting arrested. Its not even close to justice, Bregman said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to New Mexicos Chief Public Defender, Ben Baur, the justice system does not do a very good job of keeping mentally ill defendants from committing more crimes. The criminal justice system is not equipped to always bring justice or closure in everybodys eyes, and thats heartbreaking to me sometimes. But its the reality, Baur said.

University of New Mexico Law School Criminal Law Professor Joshua Kastenberg said its nearly impossible to hold mentally ill defendants accountable for their actions. Theres been an acceptance in this country that you cannot convict someone and find them guilty under the law unless theyre competent to stand trial. Thats a case we teach every law student in criminal law, Kastenberg said. For the most part, individuals who are deemed not competent to stand trial are released on the street. Theyre out on the street because the system that we have in place does not have an alternative, Professor Kastenberg said.

(Ruben Rincon)

In Las Cruces, 32-year-old Ruben Rincon has been arrested 127 times for offenses ranging from criminal trespass and stalking to burglary and domestic violence violations. The Dona Ana County district attorney has filed more than 50 criminal cases against Rincon, however, they were all abandoned due to his mental incompetence.

Mentally ill defendants who commit violent offenses can also escape justice. In 2017, 15-year-old Marquise Prudhomme was charged with Attempted Murder, Aggravated Assault With A Deadly Weapon, and Unlawful Carrying of a Handgun. However, because he was found to be incompetent to stand trial, the charges were all dismissed. As an adult, Prudhomme has been in and out of the criminal justice system.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2017, 22-year-old Larry Vieux was indicted on Second Degree Murder and Robbery charges. The court case was thrown out, and Vieux was released from jail after it was determined he had an intellectual disability and was incompetent to stand trial.

Larry Vieux lapel arrest video below:

Some mentally ill defendants who are found to be dangerous (as defined in statute) can be ordered to New Mexicos State Hospital (Behavioral Health Institute) in Las Vegas for up to 9 months. In 2023, 48-year-old Geraldine Begay was indicted on charges of Second Degree Murder and Voluntary Manslaughter. After an evaluation, she was found to be incompetent to stand trial. But instead of ordering Begay to the secure facility at the State Hospital for treatment, Judge Lucy Soliman ruled Begay was not dangerous. As a result of that ruling, the Second Degree Murder charge was dismissed, and Begay was set free. Judge Soliman did not return a phone call for comment.

(Geraldine Begay)

(District Court Judge Lucy Solimon)



(District Court Judge Courtney Weaks)

After a psychological evaluation, Travis Greenwood was found to be incompetent to stand trial. However, after Judge Courtney Weaks ruled Greenwood was not dangerous, the indictment was dismissed and Greenwood was released from jail. Its really unfortunate everybody loses here, Greenwoods ex-wife, Julie Turner, said. I lost as the victim because hes out on the street. He lost being out on the street because he has nowhere to go. Therefore, he has nothing to lose, Turner said. Judge Courtney Weaks did not respond to a request for comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Not all dangerous mentally ill defendants are released from custody. John Hyde, 48, has been locked up at the State Hospital for 20 years. In 2005, Hyde went on a shooting spree and murdered a state transportation worker, two motorcycle shop employees, and two police officers. Because he was found to be incompetent to stand trial, Hyde was sent to the state hospital to treat his mental illness. Unless his competency can be restored so that he can stand trial on the murder charges, Hyde will likely spend the rest of his life at the Behavioral Health Institute in Las Vegas, New Mexico.

According to UNM Clinical Psychologist Dr. Jeff Younggren, there is no justice for mentally ill defendants who commit crimes and then are released back into the community. Its not justice for society. Its not justice for the individual, Dr. Younggren said. In a system where somebody repeats a crime over and over and the end result of that is nothing changes. Well, if nothing changes, nothing changes. They go out and they do it over again. They have no respect for societys rules, Dr. Younggren said.

Our criminal justice system is not good at dealing with repeat offenders who are deemed incompetent and yet continue to commit crimes, UNM Law School Professor Joshua Kastenberg said. When you leave your home to go to your car in the morning, you dont want to have to look over your shoulder. You dont want to worry about somebody whos speaking out loud to other individuals who arent there in a threatening manner, and worry is this person coming after me, or are they just in a delusion and they havent harmed anyone. Those are the kinds of things that we all want for ourselves and for our neighbors and other people. And so thats why this matters, Professor Kastenberg said.

We certainly have done no justice for the victims. Weve done no justice for the community. And really, we havent done any justice for the person who is suffering from the mental illness and continues to be in our justice system, in this revolving door, going in and out and really at the end of the day, getting no sustained help, D.A. Sam Bregman said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At this years legislative session, lawmakers enacted reforms aimed at enhancing the states criminal competency laws. By providing more treatment options to mentally ill defendants, experts say the new legislation will enable the states criminal justice system to better respond to the mentally ill. It will likely take several years before the new legislation has a measurable impact on criminal incompetence.

Watch Extended Interviews

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 KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
Britains media watchdog has insisted it remains committed to free speech after coming under fire from US officials over accusations of censorship.

Dame Melanie Dawes, head of Ofcom, said freedom of expression was central to everything as she was grilled by MPs over the agencys approach to broadcasting rules.

The TV channel GB News has been found in breach of Ofcoms broadcasting code a dozen times in recent years over issues including its use of politicians as presenters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The regulator has since dropped five of those breach decisions after the channel challenged the rulings in the High Court.

Speaking in front of the culture, media and sport committee, Dame Melanie said that while GB News had repeatedly fallen foul of the rules, its compliance record had significantly improved.

Ultimately thats what were aiming for, to get compliance with the code, and to do so in a way that absolutely upholds freedom of expression and the freedom of the broadcaster to innovate  thats incredibly important  but safeguards those standards for the public, she said.

Ofcoms new role as Britains first internet regulator has been thrust into the spotlight amid trade negotiations with the US and Donald Trumps vocal support of free speech.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

US officials have reportedly raised concerns that the regulators new online laws, which are aimed at tackling illegal material and protecting children from harmful content, could amount to censorship.

TV channel GB News has been found in breach of Ofcoms broadcasting code more than two dozen times

That followed a blistering speech delivered by JD Vance, the US vice-president, in which he attacked European leaders, saying free speech was in retreat across the region.

Sir Keir Starmer has said the UK must remain a pioneer of free speech, but insisted that online harms laws were not up for negotiation as part of any trade agreement.

However, Dame Melanies comments suggest Ofcom bosses are keen to emphasise the regulators focus on freedom of expression as the Government races to strike a trade deal with the US to avoid tariffs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ofcom is also facing criticism from GB News for its approach to regulation. Writing in The Telegraph on Tuesday, Angelos Frangopoulos, the channels chief executive, accused the watchdog of having a jailer mentality that was hampering the Prime Ministers growth ambitions.

The fledgling channel secured a big victory earlier this year when a High Court judge quashed Ofcoms verdict that the use of Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg as a presenter had breached broadcasting rules.

However, Ofcom is now poised to strengthen its rules to ensure that politicians cannot present news in any programme, including current affairs shows.

Mr Frangopoulos warned the proposed regulations would make it even harder for budding newcomers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dame Melanie said: Were very clear our responsibility is to ensure due impartiality, but not to say what politicians should and shouldnt do beyond that  freedom of expression is central to everything.

Asked whether the regulators remit should be expanded to cover news programming on different platforms such as YouTube, the Ofcom boss said: There is so much plurality now, which in many ways is a good thing, but I think we have to be careful that we dont try to regulate everything.

Thats why we believe that making sure that the really high-quality, accurate, impartial news services that we regulate do have sufficient prominence, making sure that theyre still there.

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.
BERLIN (AP)  Friedrich Merz plunged straight into international crises on his first full day as Germanys new chancellor Wednesday, presenting a united front with France against U.S. President Donald Trumps trade war, demanding more aid for Gaza and announcing he soon would visit Ukraine.

Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron  firm believers in the European Union and leaders of the continent's largest economies  used their first meeting since the German leaders appointment Tuesday to show unity on Ukraine and other issues causing alarm in Europe. They vowed to strengthen the continents security and increase defense spending.

The tandem of Germany and France has long underpinned the 27-nation bloc, but lost some of its vigor in recent months as leaders in both countries wrestled with domestic issues.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a joint news conference, Merz acknowledged that Europe still needs the U.S. for peace in Ukraine. It is our firm conviction that we cannot end this war in Ukraine without further political and military engagement by the United States of America, he said. The Europeans cannot replace this at present.

Both Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have been exerting pressure on the EU, forcing it to rethink its own security. It was not clear when Merz would visit Ukraine.

Macron said that France and Germany will accelerate defense cooperation, including jointly developing new defense technologies necessary for the wars of tomorrow. He listed working together on tanks, long-range missiles and combat aircraft. He also said that the countries would start regular meetings of a French-German defense council.

Merz also visited Poland on Wednesday and addressed his new government's plans to station more police at Germany's border to curb illegal migration and even turn away some asylum-seekers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If we, everybody together in the European Union, give the signal to those who are setting out for Europe without valid opportunities for entry, if we give this signal especially to the traffickers, that these routes are going to get a lot more difficult and that we are going to close them, then that is a joint and good signal, Merz said during a joint news conference with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.

Demanding aid for Gaza

Merz and Macron also demanded that Israel allow humanitarian aid for civilians in Gaza. Israel cut off all aid to the territory over two months ago to try to pressure the Hamas militant group.

Israel is preparing to ramp up its campaign against Hamas in a devastating war now entering its 20th month. The war began on Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Israels offensive has killed more than 52,000 people in Gaza, many of them women and children, according to Palestinian health officials, who don't distinguish between combatants and civilians in their count.

Merz urged Israel to be more responsible"  striking comments given Germany's past and present support for Israel.

Macron said that France couldnt, on the one hand, defend Ukrainians sovereign and territorial rights while ignoring the plight of Palestinians in Gaza, saying: We cannot have double standards."

Both men sought stability between India and Pakistan, saying they view the latest exchange of fire "between these two nuclear powers with the utmost concern.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

India fired missiles into Pakistani-controlled territory early Wednesday, killing at least 31 people in what Pakistans leader called an act of war. India said it struck infrastructure used by militants linked to last months massacre of tourists in the Indian-controlled portion of Kashmir.

Merz's historic defeat

The German leader's trip to Paris came the day after his historic defeat in the first round of voting in the German parliament. No other postwar candidate for chancellor has failed to win on the first ballot. He won in the second.

Traditionally, newly elected chancellors make a point of visiting their big neighbors in the west and east on the first day in office to stress European unity.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Merz's Paris stop showed that the new chancellor was plunging into world affairs, sending a message that Germany is back after his predecessor's more timid approach. Macron touted their meeting as a new page in the French-German partnership.

In particular, France is looking for German backing for increased EU defense spending in the face of Russia's threat as well as concerns that Trump is pivoting from its post-World War II relationship with Europe to focus on countering China.

The French president also said France and Germany would act hand in hand in the face of Trumps tariffs and work for a united European response and a balanced outcome that respects our interests.

80th anniversary of World War II

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The stops in Paris and Warsaw occurred on the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germanys unconditional surrender in World War II. The meeting with Macron was particularly loaded with symbolism for the two countries that were bitter enemies in World War I and II.

The first war ended with an armistice agreement signed in a railway car north of Paris. Nazi leader Adolf Hitler then used that railway car in accepting Frances capitulation in 1940, after its defenses succumbed to the German invasion.

German-French friendship is a gift, a gift of forgiveness and reconciliation, especially for us Germans, Merz said.

Poland's leader re-affirmed his support for a strengthened European defense, which would include a stronger German military.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is not easy, considering history, to say out loud, as a Polish prime minister, that I would very much like Germany to arm itself faster and more intensively," Tusk said. Armed Germany in Poland is not a popular slogan, but fortunately today we live in times when there is a different Germany, a different Poland, different threats.

___

Leicester reported from Paris. Philipp Jenne in Vienna and Rafal Niedzielski in Warsaw, Poland, contributed.
Attorney General Ken Paxton indicted and arrested six people  including five public officials  for what his office described as a vote harvesting scheme in Frio County, a part of his yearslong election integrity investigation, his office announced Wednesday.

The Frio County judge and former county elections administrator, two Pearsall City Council members and one school board member, and one other person were each charged. Five of them were arrested on May 2. Rochelle Camacho, the county judge, will be processed at a later date, according to a release from Paxtons office.

The people of Texas deserve fair and honest elections, not backroom deals and political insiders rigging the system, Paxton wrote in a statement. Elected officials who think they can cheat to stay in power will be held accountable. No one is above the law.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Audrey Gossett Louis, the district attorney for the region, said in a statement: Violating the privacy or voting rights of our elderly or disabled community members will be met with zero tolerance.

The Texas Tribune reached out to the offices of the current public officials indicted.

The City of Pearsall said in a statement it is aware of the indictments, but due to the sensitivity of this matter and in our efforts to not interfere with any existing or ongoing investigations, the City has no comment at this time.

Camachos office and the Pearsall school board trustee Adriann Ramirez did not immediately return requests for comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ballot collection, or ballot harvesting, a term used by many in the Republican Party, refers to the process of designating someone else to return a voters ballot. Its allowed under federal law, but some states have restrictions, such as not allowing the person collecting the ballots to be compensated, or not allowing them to collect more than a certain number of ballots, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Paxton brought the charges under Texas' Senate Bill 1, passed in 2021, which makes it a third-degree felony for a person to knowingly provide or offer vote harvesting services,  or the collection of ballots  in exchange for compensation, unless the person is employed as a caregiver for a voter who is eligible to vote by mail. That includes Texans who are 65 or older on Election Day or who are unable to vote in person due to illness or be away from their county throughout the entire election. Under the law, organizers of voter outreach groups and volunteers could spend up to 10 years in prison and be fined up to $10,000 for offering these services.

And while a federal court ruling from September challenging the constitutionality of the law halted the states ability to investigate those cases, Paxton appealed that decision, which gave the state leeway to continue. The case remains under appeal.

KSAT, which obtained the search warrants, reported that the documents state that the officials either knowingly provided vote harvesting services for money, or, in the case of the former elections administrator, tampering with evidence in an attempt to hide it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The limits on voter assistance in SB 1 are one of several pieces of the law. Some expand access  such as a provision that increases early voting hours in smaller, mostly Republican counties. But mostly, the law restricts how and when voters cast ballots. It specifically targets voting initiatives used by diverse, largely Democratic Harris County, the states most populous, by banning overnight early voting hours and drive-thru voting, which were popular among voters of color in 2020.

Former Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa described past investigations conducted under the law as politically motivated, and designed to intimidate voters. He said Republicans investigate alleged election fraud only in Latino and Democratic strongholds like the Rio Grande Valley.

Frio County, where Republican candidates have dominated in recent elections, has a population of about 18,000 and is southwest of San Antonio.

Disclosure: National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) 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.

First round of TribFest speakers announced! Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Maureen Dowd; U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-San Antonio; Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker; U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff, D-California; and U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Dallas are taking the stage Nov. 1315 in Austin. Get your tickets today!
A man accused of strangling his boss to death with zip ties and subsequently fleeing the country has been caught and extradited back to New York, where the alleged killing took place, authorities said. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg announced this week that his office brought a second-degree murder charge against the longtime fugitive.

Michel Patrick DeSalles, 54, allegedly attacked his employer while working at a jewelry store in New York City's Tribeca neighborhood on Feb. 14, 2017, according to Bragg's office, which cited court documents. Prosecutors say DeSalles tied two zip ties around the boss' neck until he died, before proceeding to flee to Mauritius, the island nation where he is originally from.

The jeweler, Omid Gholian, was found dead by police and his relatives inside the bathroom of his family-owned store, World of Gold N Diamond, the day after the murder, CBS New York reported at the time. They discovered Gholian's body with the zip ties wrapped around his neck, in addition to a gash and bruising on his head and face.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Authorities said the lights were still on in the jewelry store, and nothing was stolen, CBS New York reported.

DeSalles allegedly purchased a ticket to Mauritius from John F. Kennedy International Airport within three hours of the killing, Bragg's office said, and flew out that night. He was arrested in Mauritius with help from the country's attorney general and police force, before being extradited back to the United States on Friday.

"I hope the victim's loved ones can take some measure of comfort that this defendant will finally face accountability in New York," Bragg said in a statement. "I thank our prosecutors for never wavering from the investigation and doggedly seeking the return of this defendant."

Sneak peek: The Depraved Heart Murder

Why Hegseth is calling for cuts to senior ranks across U.S. military

Analyzing Trump's announcement of ceasefire with Houthi rebels in Yemen
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. Iran cannot solely rely on fossil energy sources like oil for its energy supply, Deputy Head of Atomic Energy Organization (AEOI) of Iran, Behrouz Kamalvandi, said during an exhibition on the country's achievements in the nuclear industry in Tehran on May 6, Trend reports.

According to him, there are differences between nuclear and oil energy; long-term use of nuclear energy does not pollute the environment, and based on this, every country has the right to benefit from nuclear energy and technology.

Kamalvandi mentioned that Iran operates within the framework of international obligations such as the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and is committed to these obligations. According to the laws and regulations of the IAEA, Iran has the right to possess nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. Using nuclear technology for peaceful purposes without any discrimination is Iran's priority.

In response to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's statement that Iran is the only country without nuclear weapons that enriches uranium, Kamalvandi pointed out that this issue needs clarification. Countries such as the Netherlands, Belgium, South Korea, Brazil, and Japan also enrich uranium without nuclear weapons.

"Iran has spent time cooperating with the International Atomic Energy Agency and ensuring transparency in its activities. IAEA inspectors have maximally monitored Iran's nuclear activities and facilities, and continue to do so. These actions demonstrate that Iran's nuclear program is for peaceful purposes," the Iranian official added.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has recently stated that Iran has rich energy resources

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
(NewsNation)  GiveSendGo has been making headlines recently with the fundraisers that have been made, including for a Texas teen accused of stabbing and killing another teen at a track meet.

GiveSendGo was created in 2014 by three siblings, according to its website. The siblings eventually launched the beta version of the site in early 2015, with a public launch party in October 2015.

After much prayer, discussion, and counsel, a decision was made. GiveSendGo was created not to take one side or another politically, but in the middle of a divided political culture, we were to be focused on the very reason we started GiveSendGo, to share the Hope of Jesus through crowdfunding to everyone who comes to our platform, the websites About Us page states.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Over $6M worth of fake designer watches seized at OHare Airport: CBP

GiveSendGo differs from other platforms, like GoFundMe, because it doesnt charge processing fees to use its platform. Instead, it uses voluntary donations from Givers and Goers.

Platforms like GoFundMe charge processing fees. In GiveSendGos terms and conditions, it states that the person who created the campaign has to be verified by the company before any funds are released.

The company also doesnt decide who can put a fundraiser on its site, unlike GoFundMe, which took down the fundraiser for Karmelo Anthony, the teen accused of stabbing another teen at a track meet. GiveSendGo has faced backlash for keeping up fundraisers for Anthony, as well as a Minnesota mom who allegedly called a child a racial slur.

GiveSendGo defends fundraiser for Karmelo Anthony

The co-CEO of GiveSendGo, Heather Wilson, recently defended the companys decision to leave the fundraiser for Anthony up. On social media, she said GiveSendGo is seeing similar outrage from the right as we once did from the left when similar campaigns were created for Kyle Rittenhouse and Daniel Penny.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A few key things to consider: 1. In each of these high-profile cases, someone tragically lost their life, Wilson wrote. 2. In each case, there was no mystery around who was involved in the incident.

Why it may be challenging for Diddys jury to remain impartial

There have been GiveSendGo fundraisers created for Anthonys family as well as Metcalfs family. In her post, Wilson said that, from the websites founding, it opted not to determine who deserves a defense.

Thats the role of our justice system, Wilson wrote. If we truly believe in consequences, lets make sure they come through due process  not mob outrage. Let the facts come out. Let the courts decide. Let us remain consistent.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
(WGHP)  If youre of a certain age, you might remember a classic commercial for the stock broker firm, E.F. Hutton, which was later acquired by Lehman Brothers, in which some business folks were talking over lunch when one says, Well, my broker is E.F. Hutton, and E.F. Hutton says , and the room instantly goes silent as everyone leans in to hear what it is that the E.F. Hutton broker had told the man. President Donald Trump seems to have something of that same effect when he talks about industries he believes he can get to return their production to the U.S.

Recently, he mentioned one of those while speaking in the Oval Office.

North Carolina. I used to go there to buy furniture for hotels, and its been wiped out. That business all went to other countries, and now its all going to come back into North Carolina, Trump said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Now that would be quite a story. Furniture quite literally built much of the Piedmont Triad with a plethora of names that still roll romantically off the tongues of people who were around in their heyday.

I grew up in a furniture family, said Tammy Covington, who is the CEO of the High Point Market Authority, which hosts the famous industry convention twice each year. We all wish the days of making products domestically were a reality. Its been a long time since weve done that, and a lot has changed.

Those names may exist on some furniture sold in the US today, but most of it is made elsewhere: names like Thomasville, Lexington, Century, Henredon and Bassett.

Some still exist. Chris Morris owns Vision Contract Manufacturing, building furniture on contract and does it for a number of brands, including making most of the furniture in the Great Wolf Lodges across the country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I grew up in High Point, so I saw when the factories were here, supporting a grocery store on every corner, supporting the factories, and then theyre gone, Morris said.

The challenge the president is going to find, according to Tim Stump who runs Stump & Company, an analyst and merger and acquisition specialist, is that it would take longer than Trumps term to get any significant manufacturing up and running in the US, and few CEOs are going to put that much capital at risk when they dont know what the next president may do.

I dont think its going to be any of these mega projects like hes doing with the chip companies or the Amazons and the mega projects we have  in Siler City, said Stump of big operations like the Wolfspeed chip factory near Chatham County. I just dont see at scale that we can move  enough furniture back to the US to move the needle.

See more on this subject in this edition of The Buckley Report.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 FOX8 WGHP.
The U.S. and China are expected to hold their first tariffs talks this weekend. This comes after President Trump met with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney yesterday to discuss tariffs. NBC News Kelly ODonnell and Christine Romans report more. Axios Senior Economic Reporter Courtenay Brown joins Ana Cabrera to share her analysis.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) released new information about a person who was killed in an alligator attack at Lake Kissimmee State Park.

FWC and the Polk County Sheriffs Office (PCSO) responded to the mouth of Tiger Creek on Lake Kissimmee, located between Polk and Osceola counties, at around 4 p.m. on Tuesday.

Residents evacuated from Clearwater condo after cracks found in pillar underneath building

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A husband and wife were in a canoe when they passed over a large alligator in the water, which was about 2.5 feet deep, according to FWC. The alligator thrashed and tipped the canoe, sending both people into the water.

The alligator bit the woman, who was identified as 61-year-old Cynthia Diekema of Davenport. Her husband tried to intervene, but could not stop the attack. Her body was later located by a PCSO helicopter.

We are working hard to understand exactly what happened. While alligator attacks resulting in fatalities are extremely rare, this tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the powerful wildlife that share our natural spaces, said FWC executive director Roger Young.

Trappers removed two alligators matching the size description of the attacking gator, estimated to be 11 feet and four inches. They remained in the area on Wednesday to remove additional alligators, if needed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The incident comes just months after a kayaker was bitten by an alligator at the mouth of a canal connecting Lake Kissimmee and Tiger Lake.

This is obviously one of those situations where during this time, alligators are active, we would strongly encourage the public to keep their distance from alligators, said Young.

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.
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)  Some of the top gang violence investigators in the country are in Lansing to talk about the fight against organized crime at an event hosted by the Midwest Gang Investigators Association.

Its an opportunity for law enforcement from a dozen different states to talk about the problem, and this year, officers agree, its getting worse.

We do have a rise in West Coast Hispanic gangs here in the Midwest with our Serenos and Nortenos, says association member Brad Schlosstein. And then our Chicago-based gangs are still active, whether it be our Gangster Disciples, Vice Lords, or Latin Kings.

Brad Schlosstein. (WLNS)

Investigators tell me theyre also seeing a rise in political groups that are acting more like gangs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Were currently seeing a rise in our white supremacy activity, said Schlosstein. Were also seeing a rise in sovereign citizens, those who have anti-government ideology. Its not the same as from the 60s, 70s, and 80s, but now theyre becoming more violent using that power of intimidation, again, back into the communities.

Officers tell me that when a gang moves in, it usually leads to an increase in serious crimecrime that local law enforcement is not prepared to handle.

Some of the exhibits at the convention. (WLNS)

Were starting to see the drugs coming into the community, says Schlosstein. Were starting to see human trafficking, illegal weapons coming into the community, and counterfeit products coming into the community as well.

Experts say the gangs are working on an interstate level. which means law enforcement needs to do the same thing, but thats easier said than done.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A lot of our gang members, they can tell if we know what were talking about. They can tell when were providing false information, pretending to know what were talking about, says Schlosstein. So we make sure that we have that updated education for investigators working on these types of cases.

Some of the exhibits at the convention. (WLNS)

Conferences like this are a vital way to help stay ahead of crime. Here, officers get up to speed on the latest information and the latest technology.

Were focusing on having that secure way to share information, get the intelligence out there. So if somethings going on in Indiana, it may end up in Wisconsin as little as a couple of days, says Schlosstein. Its a bridge of networking and making sure that people working in law enforcement and corrections, theyre not on their own when theyre investigating these cases.

Officers tell 6 News the focus this year has been on finding ways to use technology to fight crime. Some of the presentations this week include how to use AI to enhance an intelligence report and the latest on crime analytics.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
By Hatem Khaled, Nidal al-Mughrabi and Olivia Le Poidevin

GAZA/CAIRO/GENEVA (Reuters) - Palestinian baby Jenan Alskafi died in Gaza on Saturday after malnutrition and digestive problems, which her doctor said could not be treated because of a total Israeli blockade that aid agencies believe is undermining the entire population's health.

The four-month-old needed hypoallergenic milk formula - a normally common product now absent in Gaza - to help her with chronic diarrhea that caused malnutrition and left her too weak to fight infection, her doctor Ragheb Warsh Agha said from the Rantissi hospital in northern Gaza where Jenan died.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I was torn into a thousand pieces," said Jenan's mother Aya Alskafi, describing the death of her baby, whose name means "paradise" in Arabic and who, according to her doctor, lost nearly half her bodyweight in her final days.

Israel cut most supplies into Gaza when the war began on October 7, 2023 with a Hamas attack, and although it allowed more aid into the enclave during a ceasefire from January, it imposed a total blockade when its devastating and deadly military campaign resumed in March.

The Israeli prime minister's office did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment on malnutrition levels in Gaza and reports that vulnerable people, including children requiring supplements, had died as a result of the blockade.

Israeli officials have said they do not believe Gaza faces a hunger crisis, that enough aid has entered to sustain the enclave's population, and that they want to stop supplies coming under the control of Hamas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Israel has also said it plans to expand its military campaign, causing deepening distress for displaced Gazans as Israeli forces carried out more airstrikes and demolished buildings in Rafah on Wednesday, according to local residents.

With Gaza's fields inaccessible to civilians and its seas barred to fishermen, the territory depends almost entirely on food from outside, but the last delivery Israel allowed was on March 2, the final day of the ceasefire.

The United Nations and international aid agencies warn of an unfolding catastrophe, with U.N. humanitarian agency OCHA saying more than 2 million people - most of Gaza's population of 2.3 million - face severe food shortages.

Malnutrition is severely affecting children, pregnant women and people with chronic conditions, while also delaying the recovery of patients with serious war injuries, as aid stocks near depletion, several agencies said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The situation is getting worse every day. We have between 9,000-10,000 children who are treated for malnutrition," said Jonathan Crickx, communications head at the U.N. children's agency UNICEF.

Hunger is a particular problem because as well as hindering children's cognitive and physical development it weakens their immune systems, and nearly all Gaza's people are homeless from the destruction caused by Israel's air and ground war.

"You have a big pile of rubbish on top of which children are digging for a little bit of food. This is extremely concerning because it will definitely increase the number of children dying from preventable diseases," Crickx said.

The Gaza Health Ministry said at least 65,000 children have shown symptoms of malnutrition. The Gaza government media office said at least 57 people, mostly children, had died as a result of malnutrition since Israel closed the crossings on March 2. Both official bodies are run by Hamas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Israeli prime minister's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the numbers.

MALNUTRITION

Hunger is not only aggravating health problems for children.

Medical charity MSF said it was seeing an increase in patients coming to hospitals with chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension who lack enough food or food with sufficient protein, nutrients and vitamins.

An MSF clinic in Gaza City has also seen more patients coming for treatment of severe wounds, their conditions worsened by lack of access to food and clean water, the charity said.

"We have to keep cases for months in the hospital while in a normal situation, they would have been treated in a few weeks," said MSF medical coordinator Julie Faucon.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There are 350,000 patients with chronic conditions in Gaza, including cancer and diabetes, according to U.N. data.

The Palestinian Red Crescent Society, the local affiliate of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, said it had no medication left for heart disease, hypertension or diabetes, and no stocks of nutritional supplements or infant formula.

"Ambulances can barely run. Without food, water, medical supplies, or fuel, survival is becoming even more difficult. Humanitarian aid must enter into the Gaza Strip," it said in a statement to Reuters.

Pregnant women are at particular risk. "We stand up and get dizzy due to a lack of food. There are no eggs, meat, food, or drink. We are tired. We came to get pills, if we can find them, just so we can stand and move," said Ola al-Kafarna, a displaced pregnant woman.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Between 10-20% of 4,500 surveyed pregnant and breastfeeding women are malnourished, the World Health Organization reported in April. Malnourished pregnant women face issues including anemia, fatigue and preterm labour.

"They (mothers) are not getting enough calories a day and they are not producing milk. It's very difficult at the same time to find infant formula," Faucon said.

(Reporting by Nidal al-Mughrabi and Olivia Le Poidevin; additional reporting by Hatem Khaled and Ebrahim Hajaj in Gaza and Ismail Khader in Ramallah; editing by Angus McDowall, Aidan Lewis and Mark Heinrich)
GENEVA, Ala. (WDHN)  After a months-long search, a new superintendent has been chosen to lead the Geneva City School System.

On Tuesday night, the Geneva City School board unanimously voted to appoint Jami Seay as superintendent.

The vote was between Seay and Dr. Brian Thomas.

Dr. Thomas is currently an assistant superintendent of the Dekalb County School System in north Alabama, and Seay is the principal at Mulkey Elementary in Geneva.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During Tuesday nights meeting, board members asked the two candidates about themselves and their work.

The search for a new superintendent began after longtime leader Ron Snell announced his retirement last year.

Geneva City superintendent suddenly retires

This story is breaking. Stay with WDHN for more information.

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 WDHN - wdhn.com.
Speaking at the 2025 NewDEAL Ideas Summit, Sen. Jason Esteves, a candidate for Georgia governor, rejected labels like moderate or progressive Democrat and called himself a "getting things done" Democrat. Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder

How should Georgia Democrats deal with sensitive topics like transgender rights and diversity, equity and inclusion?

Georgia Democrats are thinking about the path forward as they look ahead to the 2026 midterms, hoping that discontent with President Donald Trump and his fellow Republicans will help propel Sen. Jon Ossoff back to Washington and launch a Democrat into the governors office for the first time since Roy Barnes served more than 20 years ago.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Other top executive offices like lieutenant governor, attorney general and secretary of state will also be up for grabs, as will 236 seats up and down the state Legislature.

A handful of Georgia Democratic leaders, including at least one candidate for governor, talked strategy Monday and Tuesday at the 2025 NewDEAL Ideas Summit in Atlanta, a conference for center-left Democrats at the state and local level from around the country.

Jim Kessler. Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder

On Tuesday, Atlanta Democratic Sen. Jason Esteves introduced Jim Kessler, executive vice president for policy at Third Way, a center-left think tank, for a presentation called How Democrats Lost the Middle.

Its weird, people really hate Donald Trump, but they really dont like us either, Esteves said. So we need to figure out how to tread that line and make sure that people understand what were about, and how we can rebuild a durable Democratic (coalition). And Jim Kessler can do that.

How Democrats Lost the Middle

Kessler started his presentation with statistics on the results from Novembers presidential race, highlighting concerning trends for Democrats. Kessler said that of the 50 states plus Washington D.C., former Vice President Kamala Harris won 18 of the top 20 states with the highest per capita percentage of college degree holders, but lost in all but two of the bottom 31.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And while Democrats did well with white, college educated voters, they lost ground among voters of other ethnicities, particularly those without college degrees, making it more difficult to build a winning coalition in swing states like Georgia.

Kessler concluded with four key takeaways: white and woke doesnt win, Latinos are beginning to vote more like white people, listen to voters and prioritize their desires over less immediate issues like mitigating climate change or preserving democratic norms and to mind the marriage gap  Harris lost married voters by 13 points, a wider gap than the gender gap, he said.

The lesson here is we talk about kitchen table economics all the time, how families can balance the budgets and make ends meet, but theres other subjects that are brought up at the kitchen table, too, that are family issues that I think Democrats have been absent on a lot of these cultural issues, but we have to be part of the solution of those kitchen table discussions as well.

Rep. Tanya Miller. Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder

Tanya Miller, an Atlanta Democrat and House minority caucus chair, asked Kessler what those kitchen table issues were.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I think they tend to be cultural issues, he said. I think there are things that people are talking about that theyre afraid to say publicly because they feel that they might get shouted at. I definitely think the trans issue is one of those in which people say, like, I feel like if I say the wrong word, I say the wrong pronoun. Im walking on eggshells, and I think people are talking about stuff like that around the table.

Kessler gave the example of the Kamala is for they/them ad run by now-President Donald Trump featuring a clip from a 2019 video in which Harris said she supported taxpayer-funded gender affirming surgery for inmates.

If I had one piece of advice for Democrats, just one, it would be stop talking to the groups, he said, referring to interest groups. Stop answering the questionnaires, tear them up, and talk to people, and not the groups out there.

Georgia Democrats react

Near the end of this years session, most House Democrats staged a walkout to protest the Republican emphasis on bills taking rights from transgender Georgians. The walkout took place during a vote on a ban for gender-affirming care for people locked up in state detention centers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Democrats called the bill a ploy for votes at the expense of a marginalized group, argued that fewer than ten incarcerated people had even requested gender-affirming care and said denying medical treatment to incarcerated people could violate constitutional protections against cruel and unusual punishment.

House Minority Leader Carolyn Hugley of Columbus characterized the bill as part of a Republican fixation on a small population of transgender Georgians and a waste of time. Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder

When asked whether things like that walkout harm Democrats, Esteves, who was marked excused during the Senate vote on the prison gender care ban, indicated the party should emphasize other issues.

I think Democrats should be focused on solving the issues that the state faces right now, he said. And we have a big affordability crisis. So we should be focused on keeping and bringing money into peoples pockets.

Miller, who kicked off the House walkout with a speech criticizing the GOP focus on transgender issues, said Democrats have to walk a fine balance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The solution is not to ignore transgender issues, she said. Transgender people have the absolute human right to live, to live freely, to be who they are, to get the health care that they deserve, just like every Georgian, every Georgian has the right to do the exact same thing.

At the same time, we have to stop playing  its a sort of a political dance, she added. We have to stop letting Republicans drag us into spaces and places where we cant get our way out. And there is a pragmatism to this thing called politics, weve got to win the elections. Because if were sitting on the sideline as losers with no power, no ability to effect policy, no ability to protect the Georgians that we want to protect, then were just sitting at home alone, watching everything get destroyed.

Atlanta Democratic Sen. Elena Parent, one of four Democrats who voted in favor of the trans inmate care ban, said the problem Democrats face is the perception that they care more about issues distant to a majority of people.

You have to understand what their concerns are and then you cant have them think that youre more worried about some of these hot button issues and well go to the mat on those and dont really care about whats really impacting the vast majority of peoples lives every single day.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
The day after his dramatic election in parliament as German chancellor, Friedrich Merz set off on the first trip abroad of his administration on Wednesday, heading first for France and then Poland.

In Paris, Merz plans to talk to French President Emmanuel Macron about, among other things, how Europe can become more independent following the radical change of course in US foreign policy under President Donald Trump.

In Warsaw, Prime Minister Donald Tusk is likely to discuss migration as well as the Russian war against Ukraine.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Merz had previously announced that there would be a tightening of border checks and increased turning back of migrants from his first day in office. Poland is sceptical about the measures, however.

Merz was elected chancellor on the second attempt on Tuesday, after he suffered a historic defeat in a first round of voting in the lower house.

By the evening, however, he had been formally appointed chancellor and his predecessor Olaf Scholz had handed over the reins of power in the Chancellery, which will be Merz's headquarters for the next four years.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz boards an air force aircraft as he departs for inaugural visits to Paris and Warsaw. His agenda includes discussions on the repositioning of Europe, the Russian war in Ukraine, and migration policy. Michael Kappeler/dpa
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. In response to India's missile strikes on cities in Pakistan's Punjab and Kashmir states, the Pakistani army destroyed five fighter jets, one drone, and the headquarters of an Indian Air Force brigade, Pakistani Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry told local media, Trend reports.

According to him, all Pakistani fighter jets and flight personnel returned safely from the operation.

Meanwhile, among the destroyed Indian fighters were three French-made Rafal, one Su-30, and one MiG-29 military jet.
The day after his dramatic election in parliament as German chancellor, Friedrich Merz set off on the first trip abroad of his administration on Wednesday, heading first for France and then Poland.

In Paris, Merz plans to talk to French President Emmanuel Macron about, among other things, how Europe can become more independent following the radical change of course in US foreign policy under President Donald Trump.

In Warsaw, Prime Minister Donald Tusk is likely to discuss migration as well as the Russian war against Ukraine.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Merz had previously announced that there would be a tightening of border checks and increased turning back of migrants from his first day in office. Poland is sceptical about the measures, however.

Merz was elected chancellor on the second attempt on Tuesday, after he suffered a historic defeat in a first round of voting in the lower house.

By the evening, however, he had been formally appointed chancellor and his predecessor Olaf Scholz had handed over the reins of power in the Chancellery, which will be Merz's headquarters for the next four years.

Merz has met both Macron and Tusk several times.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As leader of the opposition, he repeatedly accused his predecessor of letting relations with both of them slide.

Shortly after his appointment, Merz said he wanted to be more active in foreign policy than previous chancellors.

"The world is in such disarray that a German chancellor must focus more on foreign policy and European policy than in the past, much more than in past decades, he said in an interview on ARD television.

Merz will be accompanied in Paris and Warsaw by new Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul. In a sign that Merz wants the government's foreign policy to follow a clear line, the chancellor and foreign minister belong to the same party - something that hasn't happened in German for almost 60 years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Wadephul said on Wednesday that the goal of his trip to Paris with Chancellor Friedrich Merz is "to really get the Franco-German axis back on track."

"[We will make it clear] that we can set the pace again in Europe, that we can become a source of ideas," he said shortly before departing.

Wadephul emphasized the importance of Poland's full involvement in the so-called Weimar Triangle group, along with France. The forum is intended to help the three countries coordinate on cross-border and European issues.

In the negotiations on a possible ceasefire in Ukraine, France and the United Kingdom have recently taken the initiative.

French President Emmanuel Macron (R) welcomes German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during his inaugural visit to Paris, with talks focusing on Europes repositioning, the war in Ukraine, and migration policy. Michael Kappeler/dpa

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrives in Paris for his inaugural visit, with talks set to cover Europe's repositioning, the Russian war on Ukraine, and migration policy. Michael Kappeler/dpa
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz plans to visit Ukraine soon as part of efforts to promote a long-term ceasefire with Russia, German broadcaster Tagesschau reported on May 7.

Speaking during a visit to Paris, Merz said the trip is currently being coordinated and emphasized that the European Union must do "everything possible" to help secure a lasting cessation of hostilities beyond the upcoming weekend.

"The key question is whether Russia is prepared for a 30-day ceasefire," Merz said, according to Tagesschau. He also linked the prospect of German security guarantees for Ukraine to the establishment of a sustainable truce, which he said should pave the way for a future peace agreement with Moscow.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Merz's remarks come as Russia prepares for a unilateral ceasefire, announced around the time of its annual Victory Day celebrations. The Kremlin declared a "humanitarian truce" from May 8 to May 11, claiming it would halt military operations during the period.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed the move as a "theatrical performance" meant to reduce Russia's international isolation. Experts have also questioned the legitimacy of the ceasefire, warning that it lacks mutually agreed terms or monitoring mechanisms.

The Victory Day ceasefire is the latest in a series of truce initiatives announced by Moscow, all of which Russia has violated.

In April, Russia declared a ceasefire over the Easter holiday. Ukraine accused Moscow of nearly 3,000 violations between April 19 and April 21.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ukraine has also said that Russian forces repeatedly breached a partial truce on attacks against energy facilities brokered on March 25.

Russia has repeatedly proclaimed its supposed readiness for peace talks while simultaneously pushing for maximalist demands. Kyiv has dismissed these declarations as a propaganda stunt, noting that Russian forces have only intensified their attacks on Ukrainian cities and towns.

Ukraine accepted a U.S.-proposed full 30-day ceasefire more than 50 days ago, but Moscow rejected the offer, demanding a halt to Western military aid to Ukraine.

Read also: How Putin weaponized WW2 and Victory Day, historian explains

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
BERLIN (Reuters) - New German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed concern about Israel's plans to take over the distribution of humanitarian aid in Gaza and said his new foreign minister would travel to Israel at the weekend.

"It must be clear that the Israeli government must fulfil its obligations under international law and that humanitarian aid must be provided in the Gaza Strip," he told ARD television late on Tuesday.

"We view the developments of the last few days with considerable concern," he said, adding Israel had the right to defend itself but must live up to its humanitarian obligations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Berlin feels a special responsibility towards Israel due to Germany's legacy of the Holocaust and is traditionally cautious in its criticism of the government.

In February, Merz drew criticism from some for saying he had invited Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and would find a way for him to visit without being arrested under a warrant by the International Criminal Court.

Israel announced its plans on Monday as part of an expanded operation it says could include seizing the entire Gaza Strip.

(Reporting by Madeline Chambers, editing by Thomas Seythal)
Germany has dismissed a two-star general for reportedly making a rape joke in front of a female British officer.

Maj Gen Hartmut Renk was dismissed from his role deputy commander for Ukraine support in Nato after he was heard saying: If rape is inevitable, then relax and enjoy.

According to Germanys Der Spiegel magazine, the comment was reported to the authorities by a British military officer in February, prompting an investigation by the German defence ministry.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Boris Pistorius, the German defence minister, has since dismissed Maj Gen Renk from his posting in Wiesbaden, west Germany.

The incident was considered so serious that Mr Pistorius and Carsten Breuer, the head of the Bundeswehr, the German armed forces, were personally involved in the investigation.

According to Der Spiegel, Maj Gen Renk admitted to making the remark but claimed it was intended as an ironic and sarcastic phrase to motivate his team during a meeting.

The incident was considered so serious that Boris Pistorius, Germanys defence minister, was personally involved in the investigation - Sean Gallup/Getty Images

A number of Nato colleagues from various nations were said to have been present at the meeting. Among them was an unnamed British officer who was disgusted by the remark and lodged a formal complaint.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Maj Gen Renk is the second senior Bundeswehr officer to be dismissed from a top Nato role over an embarrassing scandal. Nato officials learnt last year that a German general stationed in Brussels had taken home classified documents in a serious security breach, and sent the officer back to Germany.

It also follows another security scandal in early 2024 when audio recordings of German Luftwaffe officers discussing the merits of sending Taurus missiles to Ukraine were leaked online by Russia.

Friedrich Merz, the chancellor of Germany, has vowed to transform the Bundeswehr into a more credible fighting force by massively increasing its funding under the slogan Germany is back.

The centre-Right CDU leader hopes to reverse a decades-long perception of the German army as woefully ill-equipped, underfunded and lacking in seriousness.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Maj Gen Renk had served in the Bundeswehr since 1982, and was previously deployed to Afghanistan and Kosovo. He has also held other senior positions within Nato, the Bundeswehr and the defence ministry.

Germanys defence ministry declined to comment on the incident when approached for comment by Spiegel magazine, saying they could not discuss specific personnel matters.

According to Spiegel, Maj Gen Renk was already set to leave his post at Natos Wiesbaden base in western Germany, but will do so earlier than planned.

A promotion to a different role at Natos Norfolk base in the United States has also been cancelled over the rape comments.

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.
New German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said on Wednesday that the goal of his trip to Paris with Chancellor Friedrich Merz is "to really get the Franco-German axis back on track."

Wadephul is accompanying the newly appointed conservative chancellor to visit Germany's biggest neighbours, France and Poland.

"[We will make it clear] that we can set the pace again in Europe, that we can become a source of ideas," he said shortly before departing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Wadephul emphasized the importance of Poland's full involvement in the so-called Weimar Triangle group, along with France. The forum is intended to help the three countries coordinate on cross-border and European issues.

In the negotiations on a possible ceasefire in Ukraine, France and the United Kingdom have recently taken the initiative.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (R) and Lars Klingbeil, Minister of Finance and Vice-Chancellor, take part in the first cabinet meeting of the new German government. Kay Nietfeld/dpa
BERLIN (AP)  Germany's new government plans to station more police at the border to curb illegal migration and even turn away some of the asylum-seekers trying to enter Europe's biggest economy, the new interior minister said Wednesday.

Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt told reporters in Berlin that police at the border would be increased in coming days. He said vulnerable people would still be allowed to enter, but his assertion that Germany would turn away some asylum-seekers goes beyond what the previous government was willing to do.

We are not going to close the borders, but we are going to control the borders more strictly and this stronger control of the borders will also lead to a higher number of rejections, Dobrindt said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We will gradually increase this higher number of rejections and the stronger controls at the borders, he added. We will ensure that, step by step, more police forces are deployed at the borders and can also carry out these push-backs.

The countrys new Chancellor Friedrich Merz had vowed to toughen the country's migration policy during his election campaign.

Just weeks before the national election in February, the conservative leader said he would bar people from entering the country without proper papers and to step up deportations if he is elected chancellor. Those comments came after a knife attack in Aschaffenburg by a rejected asylum-seeker, which left a man and a 2-year-old boy dead.

Merz succeeds former Chancellor Olaf Scholz, whose government collapsed six months ago. Merz was elected by lawmakers on Tuesday and officially nominated as chancellor by the countrys president the same day.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Scholz, too, had been under pressure to curb migration as shelters across the country had been filling up for years. His government tried to speed up asylum procedures and also negotiated agreements for countries to take unsuccessful asylum-seekers back in exchange for more opportunities for legal immigration.

In February, just days before the election, Scholz government had also extended by six months the border checks it imposed on all its frontiers last fall as it attempted to cut the number of migrants arriving in the country. The government said at the time that the increase of border controls led to a drop of migrants trying to cross Germanys borders.

The European Union has a visa-free travel area known as Schengen that allows citizens of most member states to travel easily across borders for work and pleasure. Switzerland also belongs to Schengen although it is not an EU member.

According to the EU, member states are allowed to temporarily reintroduce border controls in cases of a serious threat, like internal security. But it also says border controls should be applied as a last resort in exceptional situations, and must be limited in time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We want this Europe of open borders to be possible again, but the current situation is one of open dysfunctionality, Dobrindt said. "This must be corrected and then we can very quickly return to a reduction in border controls.

Germanys anti-immigrant, far-right Alternative for Germany party, or AfD, had also campaigned on the migration issue with calls for deportations of illegal immigrants.

Last week, Germanys domestic intelligence service classified the AfD, which placed second in national elections in February, as a right-wing extremist organization  making it subject to greater and broader surveillance of its activities.

The agency described the AfD as a threat to the countrys democratic order, saying it disregards human dignity  in particular by what it called ongoing agitation against refugees and migrants.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the EUs border control agency Frontex, t he number of irregular border crossings into the European Union fell significantly in 2024.

In Germany, the number of people applying for asylum fell sharply last year. The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees says 250,945 people applied for asylum in 2024, down 30.2% from 2023.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Wednesday said he believes the war in Ukraine can't be stopped without the political and military involvement of the United States, as Kiev is watching closely to see how Berlin positions itself under the new conservative leader.

Merz, meeting with French President Macron in Paris on his first foreign trip less than 24 hours after taking office, said Europe was ready to contribute to a peace deal for Ukraine.

"But we also know that we will continue to need the Americans," he added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The US would also play a vital role when it comes to security guarantees for potential truce or a peace agreements, according to the new chancellor.

Merz said he would stress this point during planned talks with the Trump administration. "We want the Americans to stay on board," and that they will continue to fulfil their responsibility in NATO and also towards Ukraine, he said.

When asked about specific German contributions to security guarantees for Ukraine in case of a peace deal, Merz remained non-committal: "Until there is a permanent ceasefire and an agreement with Russia, we cannot provide any information on the scope of the security guarantees we would be giving Ukraine because we simply do not yet know the conditions."

The conservative politician went on to say that he is planning to visit Ukraine in the coming weeks.
Two German left-wing EU lawmakers are to travel to Moscow to take part in Russian celebrations to mark the Soviet Union's defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945.

Russia is set to hold its annual Victory Day military parade on Friday. Many foreign guests are expected to attend the parade in Moscow, including Chinese head of state Xi Jinping.

Parliamentarians Michael von der Schulenburg and Ruth Firmenich representing the German left-wing party Bundnis Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW) in the European Parliament announced their trip to Moscow on Wednesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They are travelling together with three other EU lawmakers from the Czech Republic, Cyprus and Slovakia. The group is also planning to visit Kiev.

During their two-day visit in Moscow the lawmakers want to "hold talks with parliamentarians and other representatives from politics and culture," a press release said.

The visit is intended to emphasize "that we consider talks and exchanges at all levels to be necessary in order to overcome the ever-increasing spiral of confrontation and escalation in Europe."

The visit to Moscow will take place during a three-day ceasefire for Russian forces in Ukraine announced by President Vladimir Putin, which is set to start at midnight (2100 GMT). Kiev is demanding that the weapons remain silent for at least 30 days.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We also want to send a signal that we want the weapons in Ukraine to fall silent permanently," the German lawmakers wrote.

The lawmakers say in their press release that a continuation of the war as advocated by the EU would be disastrous.
Germany's new Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt says it will be possible to reject asylum seekers at the country's borders from now on.

Speaking in Berlin, Dobrindt, who has only been in the post for hours since the new conservative-led government took office on Tuesday, said he would revoke verbal instructions dating back to 2015 preventing German border guards from turning away people looking to apply for asylum.

Germany's conservatives, which include Dobrindt's Bavaria-only Christian Social Union (CSU), have vowed to curb irregular migration by increasing checks and rejecting more people at the country's border once in office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Critics say refusing entry to asylum seekers would be a violation of German and EU law, and can't be taken without close coordination with Germany's EU neighbours.

The new coalition in Berlin, which is comprised of the Christian Democrats, the CSU and the Social Democrats, has pledged to maintain border controls and turn back illegal migrants at the border, even if they apply for asylum.

But the move will be taken "in coordination with our European neighbours," their coalition deal states.

It was initially unclear whether Dobrindt's announcement had been coordinated with neighbours such as Poland or Austria.

The minister also said he would increase the number of federal police officers deployed to the country's borders.
New German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged U.S. officials to refrain from interfering in his countrys politics in an interview Wednesday.

Merz, who was sworn into office Tuesday, said Washington needs to respect Germanys democratic institutions and its approach to handling far-right parties deemed extremist by its security services.

That is our business. We decide that, not the American government, he said in an interview with the Axel Springer Global Reporters Network, which POLITICO is part of.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Senior officials in the Trump administration have lashed out at Berlin after Germanys domestic intelligence agency last week labeled the Alternative for Germany Party a proven right-wing extremist organization.

Breaking with longstanding U.S. tradition of not opining on the internal politics of allies, Secretary of State Marco Rubio accused Germany of tyranny in disguise, while Vice President JD Vance attacked Berlin for attempting to destroy the AfD.

Vance has emerged as a leading champion of far-right political parties in Europe, excoriating European leaders in a speech at the Munich Security Conference in February, accusing them of shutting down unorthodox viewpoints.

Merz said that he has asked U.S. officials to keep out of German politics.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We have largely stayed out of the American election campaign in recent years, and that includes me personally, Merz said, adding that he had told American officials: We have not taken sides with either candidate. And I ask you to accept that in return.

Merzs center-right party, the Christian Democratic Union, won elections in February and formed a governing coalition with the center-left Social Democrats.

The two parties came together to keep the AfD  which came second in the polls  out of office.

Merz initially failed to secure sufficient backing in a procedural vote in the German Bundestag on Tuesday to approve his chancellorship  a foreshadowing of the governing challenges that lie ahead.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It marked the first time in modern German history that a chancellor has failed to secure sufficient support on the first vote. He succeeded in a second ballot later Tuesday.

On the campaign trail, Merz pledged to make foreign policy a top priority, and he spent his first full day in office Wednesday traveling to France and Poland, key partners for Germany in Europe.

In a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday, Merz said that President Donald Trump has our full support when it comes to bringing an end to the war.

The number one priority remains to make a European contribution to ending the war in Ukraine as soon as possible, he said in the interview.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Merz declined to answer when asked whether Germany would commit troops to support a European peacekeeping force in Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire deal and was cautious about the timeline of any potential end to the Russia-Ukraine war.

We are a long way from a ceasefire, and even further from a peace agreement, he said.

The full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 precipitated a surge in defense spending in Germany as the country raced to bolster its armed forces.

Trumps reelection and antagonistic relationship with Europe have fueled calls for the continent to reduce dependence on the U.S. for defense and security.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Europe has to become much more independent, said Merz, who added that he had several discussions with Macron about the matter.

Merz is set to speak to Trump on the phone Thursday and hopes to persuade him of the mutual benefits of making trade between the United States and Europe easier.

Trump has threatened to hit the bloc with steep tariffs if a deal isn't concluded before the 90-day pause on the levies expires in July.

I will try to explain to him that we want to make trade easier, not harder, Merz said.

The Thursday call between the two leaders coincides with the 80th anniversary of the Allied victory in World War II in Europe.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Merz said he planned to thank all of the Western allies for their commitment, which they paid for with the lives of many soldiers to defeat Nazi Germany.

Mackinnon reported from Washington. WELT's Burgard talked to Merz aboard the chancellors plane, on its way from Paris to Warsaw.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. The Indian army has raised the white flag in several territories, including on the line of contact in Kashmir, Pakistan's Minister of Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar wrote on X, Trend reports.

According to the minister, on May 6, the Indian Army admitted its defeat and hoisted a white flag at the main border checkpoint, which is considered an international symbol of surrender.

Earlier, they were running away from the investigation, and now they are running away from the battlefield, the publication reads.
Germany on Wednesday called on India and Pakistan to prevent further escalation, while advising its citizens against travelling to the region after tensions between the two rival nuclear powers escalated following overnight Indian strikes.

"After the horrific terrorist attack in Kashmir and the Indian military response to it, there is an urgent need for both countries to act responsibly," the German Foreign Office wrote on social media platform Bluesky, calling on both sides to prevent escalation and protect civilians.

The office said it was in contact with both India and Pakistan.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It comes after 26 people were killed and 46 were injured in strikes launched by the Indian military overnight on targets in Pakistan and Pakistani-controlled parts of the contested Himalayan region of Kashmir, with three people reportedly killed on the Indian side.

India says the attacks are retaliation for a terrorist attack in the Indian-administered part of Kashmir on April 22 in which at least 26 civilians were killed, most of them Indian tourists.

New Delhi blames the attack on Pakistan, but Islamabad has denied the accusations and has said it will retaliate against the Indian strikes.

The German Foreign Office updated his travel advisory for Pakistan on Wednesday, recommending that citizens postpone planned flights to the country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Following the overnight Indian strikes, Pakistan initially closed its airspace but has since reopened it.

International flights to and from Pakistan as well as domestic flights have been suspended, according to the Foreign Office, which also advised against travelling to the regions of Jammu, Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir.

Travellers were advised to contact their airline for more information on their flight status.

The Attari-Wagah border crossing between India and Pakistan remains closed, according to the German Foreign Ministry, which noted that further travel restrictions are possible.

A chinar tree branch has fallen on a residential house following a plane crash in Wuyan, after India launched airstrikes on Pakistan. Basit Zargar/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Security personnel cordon off the area following a plane crash in Pampore, as tensions rise after India launched air strikes on Pakistan on May 7. Basit Zargar/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Army soldiers examine a building damaged by a suspected Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan controlled Kashmir. Hussain Ali/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

A person receives treatment for injuries sustained during a suspected Indian missile attack at a hospital in Bahawalpur, following missile strikes by India on cities in Pakistan, as reported by the Pakistani military's Inter Services Public Relations. Hussain Ali/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement
BERLIN (Reuters) - All members of the European Union must boost their defence spending to fill gaps in the bloc's capabilities and secure continued support for Ukraine, Germany's new Chancellor Friedrich Merz said in Paris on Wednesday.

"Only in this way can we gradually close our capability gaps and collectively support Ukraine," Merz said at a press conference alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, during which the leaders promised a new start for Europe driven by Franco-German cooperation.

It was Merz's first foreign trip as chancellor, with a stop in Poland planned after France as the conservative leader seeks to renew relations with Germany's top allies.

(Reporting by Kirsti Knolle, writing by Rachel More, editing by Thomas Seythal)
New German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has called on India and Pakistan to de-escalate after India launched overnight attacks across the border, bringing the two rival nuclear powers to the brink of another war.

"It is now more important than ever to keep calm," Merz said during his inaugural visit to Paris on Wednesday.

He stressed the need for "prudence and reason," adding that "no one in the region should have any interest in further escalation."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Merz said he and French President Emmanuel Macron were deeply concerned by last night's clashes between India and Pakistan, which came following a terrorist attack in the Indian-administered part of the contested Kashmir region which New Delhi has blamed on Pakistan.

Islamabad denies the allegations.

"We remain in contact with our partners in Europe and the region, as well as with the parties to the conflict, and are endeavouring to exert our influence," Merz said.
Freshly appointed German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has said he is planning to quickly begin talks with France and Britain on how to organize Europe's nuclear deterrence in the future.

"I see the fundamental need for us to discuss with France and also with the UK the question of how we can continue to provide such a response of deterrence together in future," Merz said during his inaugural visit to Paris on Wednesday.

Merz stressed he envisioned a supplement to the US nuclear defence umbrella, not "a substitute."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The conservative chancellor, who took office on Tuesday, said he and French President Emmanuel Macron as well as their foreign and defence ministers would meet in the coming months to discuss defence and security issues including nuclear deterrence.

Merz headed to Paris to meet with Macron 17 hours after taking the helm in Berlin, after needing two unprecedented attempts to be elected chancellor by parliament.

Both he and the French president have vowed to revitalize Franco-German ties to be able to provide better leadership in Europe in the light of the foreign policy U-turn under the Trump administration.
May 7MAGGIE VALLEY  Getting the former Ghost Town property back on the market was a long journey for Jill McClure, the niece of the late Alaska Presley.

That's meant both literally and figuratively, as the ordeal included a three-hour wait atop Buck Mountain on a side-by-side with the man she'd tried to sue as the two waited out Helene's stormy attack.

Presley went to her grave in April 2022 still dreaming of a renewed western theme park on Buck Mountain  and a cross atop one of the highest peaks in Haywood.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2020, Presley consolidated the various parcels of the 250-acre land mass that began at the base and ascended Buck Mountain. She organized them under a new limited liability corporation, Ghost Town in the Sky, with management placed under a separate corporation, Coastal Development, LLC.

The legal documents named South Carolina developer Frankie Wood as an equal business partner, with Presley contributing the land and Wood to contribute cash, financing and labor for development.

Wood was named managing partner with Presley being a full member.

Development efforts moved at a snail's pace, and it wasn't until Wood died in November 2024 that McClure was able to move forward with a property sale.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Long journey

Early on, Wood spoke of plans to bring in investors for a mountaintop theme park that was later projected to cost upward of $79 million.

Wood's initial development work focused on getting approval for additional recreational vehicle parks in Maggie Valley, including RV planned-unit developments where each lot within a multiple-lot park would be owned by separate individuals.

While several of the development projects involved changing the zoning classifications of certain properties within the Ghost Town boundaries, most were developments Wood pursued on properties owned by others.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Wood said his focus was first on creating housing for the 200 employees expected to be needed to reopen Ghost Town.

Push back

Adding more recreational vehicle parks in a town of 1,700 where there were already 600 sites in operation turned into a hot-button political issue. It led to pushback in development approvals and eventually a change in leadership in the town that supported a moratorium, or freeze, on additional campgrounds and RV parks until the town's unified development ordinance was finalized.

In December 2021, Wood called a meeting of the business community, urging them to lobby town leaders for a policy change and noted he would walk away from the development if people didn't want it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While public attendance at the next town council meeting was high, few spoke up on clearing the development roadblocks to more RV parks and campgrounds.

The following spring, Presley's death put development work on hold.

Legal action

After bills continued to roll in and McClure was denied access to the properties and financial records, she filed a lawsuit seeking to dissolve the corporation.

The case was moved to N.C. Business Court where complex business legal matters are settled. While McClure was deemed to be an equal member, the judge denied the request to dissolve the corporations and ruled as managing partner, Wood had almost exclusive control over how the business operated.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After the May 2024 court ruling, McClure said she and Wood ultimately decided they would need to work together.

Both were on Buck Mountain looking over the property when Hurricane Helene hit last September.

"Frankie plainly stated I could take over Alaska's rights, interest and duties," McClure said, noting that was what the judge had earlier ruled. "We were stuck in a side-by-side for three hours and he was still spouting off to me. I knew none of it was true."

One of the topics was water and sewer services on the mile-high mountain. McClure said she offered to speak with town leaders on the subject, but said Wood told her that Rep. Mark Pless was "working on something where we wouldn't need the town."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When Pless introduced legislation to allow a handful of property owners within the town limits to de-annex their properties, McClure said she looked to see if Ghost Town was in the proposal. To her relief, it was not.

"I'm pro-town," she said. "We need the town, and the town needs us."

New ownership

McClure said Wood's unexpected death late last year means she will decide the next steps for the long-storied Ghost Town property.

She cited a section of the operating agreement stating she was to assume Presley's partner duties.

McClure said during the lawsuit proceedings, Wood was unable to show he had made any capital contributions, so there would be nothing for him to receive when the company ended.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She consulted her attorney and was told since Wood had no will, the transfer of his membership gives heirs interest-only rights.

"If there had been a will, Frankie had put no capital in the project, however the heirs would have had voting rights which would have only made things more difficult because there were four children, with one being a minor," she said.
Police asked the public for help Wednesday in their search for a 15-year-old girl who has been missing for nearly a week in Los Angeles.

Investigators said Jaiyana Evans was last seen on May 1 at around 7:15 a.m. as she was leaving her home in the 2200 block of East 115th Street for school.

Jaiyana has not been seen since, and her family is concerned about her well-being, the Los Angeles Police Department stated in a news release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No further details were revealed about the disappearance.

Jaiyana Evans is seen in an image provided by the Los Angeles Police Department.

Jaiyana was described as a Black female with brown hair and brown eyes. She stands 5 feet tall and weighs about 110 pounds.

Police said she was last seen wearing black pants, a black Simon Tech School sweater, black shoes and a Casper the Ghost backpack.

Anyone with information regarding her whereabouts was asked to contact Southeast Detective III Patsenhann at 213-709-3784. Those who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or go to the lacrimestoppers.org 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 KTLA.
Deusdedit Ruhangariyo

ICT

Around the World: Money meets morals in forest fight in Central Africa, First Nations experts spearhead media and language dialogue in Australia, Aeta community protest shuts down Mt. Pinatubo tourism, and Cree radio network launches puppet show teaching Cree language.

CENTRAL AFRICA: Money meets morals in forest fight

A new international initiative aiming to conserve the worlds most pristine tropical forests has been launched, with a strong focus on Central Africa, home to some of the planets most vital ecosystems and Indigenous communities, the WSC Newsroom reported on April 28.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Backed by a coalition of influential funders, including Bank of America, the Central Africa Forest Initiative, the Good Energies Foundation, and the UBS Optimus Foundation, the High Integrity Forests Initiative seeks to accelerate investment in the protection of high-integrity tropical forests through a new global financial mechanism.

Spearheaded by the Wildlife Conservation Society, the High Integrity Forests Initiative is designed to support large-scale forest conservation while ensuring that local and Indigenous communities are central to the planning, implementation, and benefits of forest stewardship. The initiative aligns with global climate goals and growing recognition that halting deforestation is essential to avoiding climate catastrophe.

High-integrity forests store vast amounts of carbon, support biodiversity, and provide livelihoods for millions of people, particularly Indigenous and local communities who have cared for these lands for generations, said Dr. Emma Stokes, Wildlife Conservation Society Vice President for Field Conservation. With (High Integrity Forests), we aim to bring scalable, long-term investment to forest protection that is inclusive, transparent, and accountable.

According to the Wildlife Conservation Society, high-integrity forests make up less than half of the worlds remaining tropical forests but are disproportionately important in terms of climate stability, clean water, and biodiversity. These forests are also under growing pressure from logging, agriculture, mining, and infrastructure development.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The High Integrity Forests Initiative will channel funding into projects that prioritize forest integrity, community rights, and conservation outcomes. Central Africa, including the Congo Basin, which contains the second-largest tropical rainforest in the world, is expected to be a key focus area due to its ecological significance and ongoing threats from extractive industries.

Funders emphasized that this initiative is not just about protecting trees, but about investing in the future of the planet and the people who depend on these ecosystems. Were committed to financing solutions that meet both environmental and human needs, said a spokesperson from Bank of America.

By integrating Indigenous leadership, scientific monitoring, and climate finance, the High Integrity Forests Initiative represents a major step toward sustainable, community-led forest preservation on a global scale.

AUSTRALIA: First Nations experts spearhead media dialogue

The 2025 Indigenous Languages Symposium, held recently, centered on revitalizing and adapting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages in the digital age, the National Indigenous Times reported on April 30.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The 2025 Indigenous Languages Symposium, hosted by the Queensland State Librarys Indigenous Language Project, brought together language experts, academics, and community leaders to explore how language preservation intersects with digital innovation.

Keynote speakers Michael Running Wolf and Tanya Denning-Orman offered powerful insights into the role of technology and media in revitalizing First Nations languages.

Michael Running Wolf, an AI ethicist from the Northern Cheyenne and Lakota nations, opened the event with a keynote titled Creating a First Languages Reality Using Regenerative AI Practices. He emphasized the importance of empowering Indigenous youth through culturally grounded tech education, drawing from his work with the Lakota AI Code Camp. There, he teaches software engineering with respect for cultural knowledge and traditions.

We need to empower our youth to take control of technology, he said, highlighting the barriers many communities face, such as poor internet access. He stressed that tools must align with Indigenous worldviews and values. Running Wolf also praised the Maori communitys success in building an Indigenous language AI model, proving that technological advancement is achievable even with limited data.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tanya Denning-Orman, a proud Birri and Guugu Yimidhirr woman and SBSs First Nations Director, followed with her keynote, Our Lingo, Our Way: The Rise of First Nations Languages Through Australian Media. She reflected on her childhood in central Queensland, where Indigenous presence in media was nearly invisible. Her experiences fueled a commitment to changing representation.

I knew that media was powerful, and I wanted to change the way we were represented, she said, according to National Indigenous Times.

Denning-Orman emphasized the deep connection between language and culture, and the critical role of Indigenous-led media in preserving both. She celebrated successes like the bilingual series True Colors, aired in both Aranda and English, which connected with diverse audiences. She noted how platforms like NITV give Indigenous people the power to share stories and languages on their own terms.

Seeing and hearing our languages on TV connects us to our culture and our communities, she said, according to National Indigenous Times.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Both speakers stressed that while technology and media offer valuable tools, the heart of language revival lies within the communities themselves.

Technology is a tool, Running Wolf reminded the audience. The real work is in the community and the belief in our languages.

Denning-Orman agreed: Were not just preserving our languageswere making them thrive in the modern world.

The symposium also featured sessions on digital archives, school-based language immersion, and hands-on digital storytelling workshops. Presenters from AIATSIS and regional centers shared strategies for safeguarding recordings, transcriptions, and teaching materials. Educators from Cape York discussed successful models of early childhood language integration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Throughout the day, one message stood out: the future of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages depends on the blending of cultural leadership, community initiative, and thoughtful use of digital tools.

PHILIPPINES: Protest shuts down Mt. Pinatubo tourism

In a powerful stand on May 4, the Aeta community in Capas, Tarlac blocked access to the Mt. Pinatubo crater, protesting the continued neglect of their rights amid a surge in tourism, GMA Integrated News reported on May 4.

Their action called attention to the lack of fair compensation and formal recognition of their ancestral lands. In response, the Department of Tourism urged tourists to adhere to the local government's suspension of travel and tourism-related activities at Mt. Pinatubo in Botolan, Zambales, acknowledging the urgent need to listen to the voices of Indigenous communities who have long been sidelined.

Executive Order No. 05 s. 2025, ordering the Suspension of All Tourism-related Activities, Programs, and Projects at Mt. Pinatubo until Further Notice, officially took effect on May 2, 2025. The move came after members of five Ayta clans from Capas, Tarlac, blocked access to the Mt. Pinatubo crater in late April to voice long-standing concerns about the lack of fair compensation and recognition of their ancestral domain.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a statement posted on social media, the Department of Tourism expressed support for the local governments decision, saying: The (Department of Tourism) acknowledges the significant role that Mt. Pinatubo plays in the local tourism industry and fully supports the actions taken by the Botolan LGU under Mayor Jun Omar C. Ebdane.

The department also assured the public that the concerns raised by the Aeta community are being taken seriously: Likewise, the Department puts utmost consideration on the concerns raised by the five Ayta clans from Capas, Tarlac, during a recent consultative session organized by the Department of Tourism Central Luzon Office and various stakeholders.

The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, which has been actively coordinating with the Aeta community and local stakeholders since October 2024, confirmed that some community members were briefly taken into custody during the protest but released the same day without charges. The agency questioned the legality of the arrests, stating:

We are seeking explanation from the law enforcement authorities on the propriety of taking into custody of the Indigenous Peoples who are peacefully airing their grievances within the four corners of their ancestral domain.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a follow-up statement, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples emphasized that the Aeta protest is a wake-up call for inclusive and respectful engagement:

The actions of the Aeta community underscore the need for meaningful dialogue on ancestral land rights and equitable tourism practices.

CANADA: Cree radio network supporting language revitalization

The James Bay Cree Communications Society is debuting a puppet show to inspire both youth and adults to listen to and speak the Cree language, CBC News reported on May 03.

John and Friends is a new bilingual puppet show created by the James Bay Cree Communications Society to help kids feel confident learning Cree.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We're trying to bridge the gap, said Samuel MacLeod, who voices Morley the Moose. There are a lot of kids nowadays who don't speak a lot of Cree. We're trying to teach them how and that it's okay to be learning.

The show features a colorful cast: John, a Cree elder who lives in the bush; Mary-Ann, a Cree woman; Ghaline the Goose; crows Ka and Kachoo; and Morley the Moose, who speaks mostly English and is learning Cree. My character is the actual bridge, MacLeod explained. The point of Morley the Moose is so people can say, Oh, I can relate to this character.

The show is primarily in Cree with English subtitles, making it easier for all viewers to follow and learn. The debut episode includes special guests demonstrating how to make traditional bannock and bead earrings.

Kids are a lot more locked into their screens, so video representation really matters now more than ever, said MacLeod.

Founded in 1981 and broadcasting since 1986, James Bay Cree Communications Society is a nonprofit radio network that shares Cree news across nine northern Quebec communities. But with younger audiences shifting toward video, the organization is adapting.

They just wanted to put a show out there for the kids who are glued to their screens and teach them at the same time, said MacLeod.

Producer Jason Swallow, who also works with James Bay Cree Communications Society, emphasized the shift in how youth consume content. We are aiming at the younger generation now since they will be our next audience, he said. James Bay Cree Communications Society now shares video content, including John and Friends, through platforms like Facebook.

Younger generations are more involved in their technologies, right  making video and whatnot. And so that's where we're aiming at now, Swallow added.

Swallow recalls the joy of childhood TV and sees this project carrying a similar spirit. It almost brings nostalgia when I used to watch shows like Sesame Street, he said. This would be a great way to teach children in schools.

It took three weeks to produce the 30-minute pilot episode, a process that included learning video editing, scriptwriting, and green screen techniques. MacLeod watched the final cut with his son, who quickly pointed to Morley the Moose as his favorite.

I hope that they take the language with them, MacLeod saids. We're losing our language really rapidly.

More episodes are in the works. We're trying to teach kids and show that learning can be fun, he said. When you're learning and you stumble, its all part of the process.

My final thoughts

My final thoughts are in Central Africa where the launch of the High Integrity Forests Initiative feels like one of those rare moments. After decades of extraction, exploitation, and empty promises, it is a deep relief to see global financial giants finally backing a model that centers Indigenous peoples and forest guardians. This is not charity. It is not symbolic. It is justice. It is the long-overdue acknowledgment that those who have cared for the worlds lungs for generations are the best placed to defend them.

There is a real reason to commend what is taking shape. Bank of America, CAFI, the Good Energies Foundation, and the UBS Optimus Foundation could easily have stayed on the safer, profit-driven path  but instead, they are choosing to invest in life itself. Backing Indigenous-led conservation efforts in Central Africa is more than environmental stewardship; it is a statement about the kind of world we want to build. If done with integrity, High Integrity Forests could prove that finance, for once, can fuel healing instead of harm.

But lets be clear: the dangers are real. Too many so-called conservation initiatives have, in practice, displaced Indigenous communities, erased cultures, and enforced new forms of colonialism under the banner of environmentalism. If High Integrity Forests is allowed to slip into the old mistakes  greenwashing, exclusion, broken promises  it will not just fail. It will wound trust in ways that cannot easily be repaired.

The only way forward is radical accountability, real Indigenous leadership, and a deep respect for the idea that protecting forests is not about saving trees alone  it is about saving the spirit, the culture, and the future of humanity itself.

Without Indigenous hands to guard them, even the oldest forests will fall to silence.

Our stories are worth telling. Our stories are worth sharing. Our stories are worth your support. Contribute $5 or $10 today to help ICT carry out its critical mission. Sign up for ICTs free newsletter.
When immigration agents recently began conducting welfare checks on youths who had arrived at the border unaccompanied by their parents, advocates grew alarmed, fearing the tactic was a cover to target the minors, their adult sponsors and possibly others for deportations.

Stories of these unannounced visits popped up around the country  agents who attempted to gain access to two elementary schools in Los Angeles; agents who showed up five deep and armed at the home of an immigration lawyers 19-year-old client in Virginia; agents who interviewed a terrified 16-year-old Honduran girl at her uncles house in Washington state.

Department of Homeland Security officials have said the welfare checks are part of an ongoing effort to ensure that unaccompanied children are safe and not being exploited, abused, and sex trafficked.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Immigrant advocates say some visits have led to children being forced to leave the country with their deported parents or being removed from their sponsors and placed in federal custody.

Advocates point to the case of a 17-year-old Honduran in Hawaii whose older brother had been detained by federal agents. The boy was transported to a facility for unaccompanied youths in California.

This is just par for the course for an administration that has staked their claim on making life so incredibly difficult for immigrants at large that they think people will leave and not come to the U.S., said Jen Smyers, former chief of staff under the Biden administration for the Office of Refugee Resettlement, which is responsible for the care of unaccompanied children.

Fear of the welfare checks "drives people underground, increases exploitation and trafficking," Smyers said. "And theyre doing it with this perverse narrative by saying that they care about kids. But all theyre doing is wrecking these kids' lives.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: House Democrats demand briefing after immigration agents try to enter L.A. elementary schools

Those under review by the Trump administration are among the roughly 450,000 children who crossed the U.S.-Mexico border without their parents and were released to sponsors during President Bidens term.

Children who arrive unaccompanied by a parent are placed in the custody of the Office of Refugee Resettlement, which is under the Department of Health and Human Services. The department is required to screen adult sponsors who volunteer to care for the children, usually their parents or other relatives.

Shortly after President Trump took office, his administration formulated a multi-agency plan to track down unaccompanied children, investigate whether they are being subjected to human trafficking and deport those who are removable. An internal Immigration and Customs Enforcement memo, obtained by The Times, details the four-phase operation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The memo indicates that agents should prioritize youths who didnt show up for an immigration hearing, those whom the government has not been able to contact since they were released to sponsors, those who are considered a threat to public safety and those with deportation orders.

The agency is also looking closely at youths released from federal custody to sponsors who are not blood relatives, including so-called super sponsors who have taken in more than three unaccompanied children.

The sponsorship program has been beset by problems in recent years. The federal government has failed to properly vet some sponsors, according to a federal watchdog report from last year . Thousands of children rapidly released from government shelters were later exploited by major companies.

Last month, a federal grand jury indicted a man on allegations that he lured a 14-year-old girl from Guatemala to the U.S. and falsely claimed she was his sister to gain custody as her sponsor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

About 100 children have been removed from their sponsors this year and returned to federal custody, the Associated Press reported, and 450 cases with complaints have been referred to federal law enforcement.

The review of sponsorships under the Trump administration is being led by two branches of ICE: Enforcement and Removal Operations, or ERO, and Homeland Security Investigations, or HSI.

Along with combating human trafficking, the effort aims to identify possible candidates for deportation. Referring to unaccompanied children as "UAC," the memo states: ERO officers should remember they are to enforce final orders of removal, where possible, and HSI will pursue criminal options for UAC who have committed crimes.

The Homeland Security and Health and Human Services departments did not respond to a request for comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Over the last two months, immigration attorneys say, agents have attempted to intimidate minors.

In one instance in California, underage clients answered the door to find agents in casual wear asking about their mother and whether they had a job. Another family reported to their attorney that HSI agents arrived while the minor was at school, yet the agents returned four times in one day looking for the student.

The tactic puts in jeopardy sponsors who lack legal authorization to be in the country or live in mixed-status households, said Karina Ramos, a managing attorney at the Los Angeles-based Immigrant Defenders Law Center.

Its definitely going to have a chilling effect on a sponsor, if they know there are going to be immigration officers questioning their status, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: New Trump era vetting process keeps migrant children in federal custody longer, advocates say

The case of the teenager in Hawaii began April 9 when his older brother was arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor illegal entry, according to someone with knowledge of the case.

The teen had entered the country unaccompanied and was previously in federal custody in Texas. He was released to his older brothers care in 2023. According to the person with knowledge of the case, when the teen was apprehended last month, agents considered whether they could deport him along with his brother.

After his older brother was apprehended, the 17-year-old was placed in a facility for unaccompanied youths in California. Hawaii has no Office of Refugee Resettlement facilities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Before he was transported to California, teachers who knew the student attempted to aid his release, according to local advocates and the Honolulu Civil Beat . The teachers carried documents showing his aunt could take custody of him if he was released to her.

Advocates said there are intersecting operations in Hawaii  welfare checks on unaccompanied children and enforcement actions against deportable immigrants. At least four immigrant children in two separate cases were recently removed with their parents, who were targeted for deportation, advocates said.

Having a parallel directive to remove grown-ups from children is never in the best interest of the child, said Mary Miller Flowers, director of policy and legislative affairs at the Young Center for Immigrant Childrens Rights. So it feels like its a euphemism for enforcement actions.

In other parts of the country, young immigrants and their adult sponsors are grappling with what the welfare checks could spell for them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In Houston, Alexa Sendukas, managing attorney for the Galveston-Houston Immigrant Representation Project, said 21 clients have experienced welfare checks in recent weeks. Those who let agents inside their homes told her that agents walked from room to room, asking questions and taking photos.

In a meeting last week, HSI agents told Sendukas that they had rescued two children from a trafficking situation in the Houston area and found a sponsor who was producing child exploitation material. But she remains skeptical.

Weve heard the example of the Hawaii case, she said, adding that advocates worry that agents doing welfare checks are gathering information they can use in the future. Referring to the ICE memo, she said, "The guidance suggests a multiphase initiative  what does the next phase look like?

In San Diego, federal agents recently conducted a wellness check at the residence of a girl represented by immigration attorney Ian Seruelo. She is in the process of receiving special immigration juvenile status, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A day after the wellness check, as the girl was visiting her parents, who live at a different location, federal agents stopped them while they were driving to church and detained them for several hours, Seruelo said.

The parents have no criminal record but are undocumented, and their status was probably known to officials, Seruelo said, because they had been in deportation proceedings that were dropped. Neither the girl nor her parents are in custody, he said.

Seruelo said he found the timing of the parents' detention suspect. "I think they were using the wellness check to get information about the parents," he said.

Smyers, the former Health and Human Services official, said the public safety and border security justifications noted in the ICE memo about tracking down unaccompanied children are the same justifications used by Stephen Miller, the federal official and mastermind behind the separation of thousands of families at the southern border during President Trumps first term.

The American public should be just as galvanized against this as they were to family separation at the border, she said.

Castillo reported from Washington and Gomez from Los Angeles.

Get the L.A. Times Politics newsletter. Deeply reported insights into legislation, politics and policy from Sacramento, Washington and beyond, in your inbox twice per week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Of the innumerable insults directed at Donald Trump and his supporters, the one that seems to get under their skin the most is woke right. The epithet describes the Trump movements tendency to counter left-wing illiberalism with a mirror-image replica. The woke right, my colleague Thomas Chatterton Williams explained earlier this year, places identity grievance, ethnic consciousness, and tribal striving at the center of its behavior and thought. Right-wing wokeness appropriates techniques of the illiberal left-wing varietylanguage policing, historical revisionism, expansive claims of ethnic oppressionbut deploys them in the service of the MAGA coalition, above all white Christian males, rather than racial and sexual minorities.

Some embittered critics of wokeness have depicted this movement as an in-kind backlash, a meet the new boss, same as the old boss response to a decade of illiberalism. In fact, the woke right predates the woke left. I happened to find a textual source, perfectly preserved in time.

In 2011, Pat Buchanan published Suicide of a Superpower: Will America Survive to 2025? (Checking in from the year 2025, I can report that the answer is a tentative yes.) Revisiting the book today is illuminating for two reasons. One is that Buchanan, as many analysts have noted, invented Trumps shtick. The right-wing populist ran two unsuccessful campaigns for the Republican nomination, followed by another as an independent candidate, on proto-Trumpian themes of protectionism, isolationism, and nativismthemes that are elaborated on at length in Suicide of a Superpower. (Buchanan announced his retirement from political commentary last year.)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

[Thomas Chatterton Williams: How the woke right replaced the woke left]

The other is that Buchanans manifesto precedes the emergence of the pejorative left-wing sense of wokeness, which began in about 2014. And so it shows very clearly that the woke right, while drawing strength from the backlash to wokeism, does not require the woke lefts existence as a rationale.

If youre looking for identity grievance, ethnic consciousness, and tribal striving, Buchanan has 400 pages of it. His core argument is that white people should band together to hold off the rising tide of nonwhite people who threaten to outnumber them and use their voting power to redistribute resources downward. This belief inspires both Buchanans model of international relations and domestic politics. Globally, Buchanan argues for a rapprochement with Russia, which he praises for having implored the white nations to unite.

Domestically, he castigates George W. Bushera Republicans for pandering to liberal minorities, whom he sees as incapable of social or economic equality with the white majority. Buchanan urges the party to use nativist themes and other conservative messages to draw in more white voters, a strategy Trump later employed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In some ways, Suicide of a Superpower strikes notes similar to those found in generations of conservative screeds: fretting about the pace of social change, expressing affection for the good old daysin 1952, a Coke cost a nickel as did a candy bar, Buchanan recalls nostalgicallyand worrying that the country might not survive. But the specific elements of Buchanans complaints reveal the nearly unrecognizable context in which he was writing, which preceded a decade and a half of dizzying cultural change.

Woke ideas about race and gender emerged at the end of the Obama era, partly in opposition to Barack Obamas relatively staid liberal values. In 2011, when Buchanan was writing, the concepts that would come to be referred to as wokeism were still confined to the fringes of academia and left-wing activism, and they were so politically marginal that Suicide of a Superpower does not reference them.

Instead, Buchanan denounces Obama-era liberalism, with its emphasis on social equality and individual rights. He rails against gay marriage, along with individualistic hedonism, the Playboy philosophy, and MTV morality. Tellingly, he does not even pretend to cast himself as a defender of free speech. To the contrary, he expresses indignation that liberals are permitted to insult traditional values, including Christianity, while conservative critiques of Islam and homosexuality are deemed taboo. Buchanan cites a 2009 episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm, in which Larry David accidentally urinates on a painting of Jesus, setting off a wacky chain of events where a Catholic woman mistakes the urine for tears, as an example of intolerably offensive content. Without putting it quite this way, Buchanan implies that hate speech (against groups he identifies with) is not free speech.

Another hallmark of wokeness, writes Williams, is an overriding impulse to contest and revise the historical record in service of contemporary debates. That, too, describes Suicide of a Superpower. Buchanan pours derision on the Obama-era historiography that depicted American history as an imperfect, stop-start march toward a more perfect union that would finally live up to its founding ideals.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The left dissented from Obamas optimistic analysis, seeing American history as a long and bloody reprise of racism and exploitation with no clearly defined trajectory. Buchanan adopts a similar analysis, except that he presents the qualities derided by the left as necessary, even praiseworthy. America is the product of ethnonationalism, he asserts without judgment. No American war was fought for egalitarian ends, postwar propaganda notwithstanding. Likewise, no one would suggest the Indian wars were about equality. They were about racism and subjugation. Lincoln, he reminds the reader, was a white supremacist. As a descriptive account, Buchanans history hardly differs from what youd encounter in a text such as the 1619 Project or Howard Zinns A Peoples History of the United States, only with the moral valence of the events flipped.

[Jonathan Chait: A loophole that would swallow the Constitution]

Buchanans interest in world events runs far deeper than Trumps. It is difficult to imagine the sitting president ever having developed strong opinions on such subjects as, say, Austrias cession of South Tyrol to Italy in 1918. (Buchanan remains angry about it.) And yet the general thrust of Buchanans belief system is strikingly familiar. He insists that all nations care only for their self-interest; international cooperation is a facade; Americas allies are parasites; and the one country with whom we should be seeking closer ties is Russia.

His domestic worldview is similarly Trumpian. The threat Buchanan discerns is not censorship or radical anti-Americanism. It is the notion that America is or can be a place in which anybody who isnt straight, white, and Christian has an equal claim to citizenship. He does not pose as a defender of liberalism or equality but as a proud champion of hierarchy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump promised to restore free speech and forge a society that is color-blind and merit-based. Instead, he has attacked free speech, pressured Harvard to create quotas for MAGA fans, and built the most non-meritocratic administration since the invention of the civil service, if not before. Some Trump supporters may find themselves surprised at this right-wing version of wokeness. But in the precursors to Trumpism, it was there all along.

Article originally published at The Atlantic
Swiss luxury watchmaker enters a new chapter in its shared history with actor and long-time brand ambassador Patrick Dempsey

Nothing resonates quite like an ambassador who lives the brand, and Patrick Dempsey has embodied the TAG Heuer spirit with unmistakable style. An actor, professional racing driver, and creative force, Patrick Dempsey has been a constant presence at the side of the Swiss luxury watchmaker since 2014. This year, the relationship is entering a new chapter as Patrick Dempsey becomes the official face of TAG Heuer Eyewear.

Much like Steve McQueen before him, another Hollywood icon with a real passion for racing and a key element in the defining of TAG Heuers legacy, Patrick Dempsey represents the rare convergence of performance, precision and timeless style.

Patrick Dempsey, Living the TAG Heuer Spirit

Patrick Dempseys alignment with TAG Heuer runs deep. He shares the brands core values: designed to win, elegance in motion, and the pursuit of excellence with no shortcuts. These can be felt on screen just as much as on the racetrack. A seasoned competitor in the world of endurance racing, Patrick Dempsey has raced multiple times at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, one of the most demanding motorsport events in the world. Few actors can claim that, and even fewer can back it up with podium finishes, after he secured second place in the GTE Am category, completing 331 laps in 2015. His dedication to the sport was recognized in 2019 when he received the Spirit of Le Mans award, honoring his contributions both on and off the track.

Patrick Dempsey has never treated his role with TAG Heuer as a formality. Hes been there - trackside at the Monaco Grand Prix, at boutique openings, behind the wheel at Rennsport Reunion 7, and throughout the brands other major moments. His presence has always been a heartfelt and authentic one, and his involvement speaks for itself.

Patrick Dempsey, Living the TAG Heuer Spirit  TAG Heuer

This year, the connection deepens with the brands latest collection, created in partnership with Thelios, LVMH Eyewear Excellence. With the new collection, Patrick Dempsey brings his passion for performance and refined style contributing to its evolution, offering creative input and a vision rooted in both style and function.

The campaign opens with a nod to the brands deep roots in racing culture. In a striking image, Patrick Dempsey mirrors a legendary portrait of Jack Heuer holding a chronograph, a pose that has come to symbolize TAG Heuers forging role in motorsport history. In the 2025 version, Patrick Dempsey wears two key models from the collection: the Jack Heuer and Mini Vingt-Sept eyewear lines. The result is both timeless and fresh, a visual bridge between heritage and what comes next.

The resonance doesnt end there. In Ferrari (2024), the actor portrayed racing legend Piero Taruffi, drawing a cinematic parallel to Jack Heuers revolutionary 1971 partnership with Ferrari. This new chapter, then, is a perfect continuation of a legacy that fuses racing, storytelling, and timeless design.

Patrick Dempsey, Living the TAG Heuer Spirit  TAG Heuer

The collection :

TAG Heuers 2025 Eyewear Collection leans into design, performance, and heritage, brought together through three distinct lines:

Jack Heuer Line

Inspired by the visionary behind TAG Heuers first Formula 1 partnership in 1971, the Jack Heuer line pays tribute to a legacy of innovation in motorsport. With 1960s-inspired pilot frames crafted from ultra-light Japanese titanium, Chromafade lenses, and refined detailing, the line blends vintage elegance with modern precision, a nod to Jack Heuers enduring influence on both design and performance.

Jack Heuer  TAG Heuer

Mini Vingt-Sept Line

A refined evolution of TAG Heuers technical eyewear, the Mini Vingt-Sept line features a sleek elliptical steel hinge and bio-nylon temples, a nod to performance and precision. Inspired by motorsport engineering, the design revisits the brands iconic 27 hinge with a bold, modern edge. Finished with polarized SPECTA lenses for enhanced visual clarity, this line is built for speed, detail, and dynamic movement.

Shield Pro Line

The Shield Pro line brings TAG Heuers boldest spirit to life with a futuristic, performance-driven design made for high-speed environments. Featuring a flexible bio-nylon frame, these sporty masks are ultra-light, durable, and built for movement. With interchangeable lenses and subtle TAG Heuer emblems, theyre designed for athletes, riders, and anyone who thrives in extreme conditions, no compromise, just clarity and control.
GoFundMe has taken down fundraisers for a man charged with killing a Hamilton County deputy, according to the Cincinnati Fraternal Order of Police.

Police say Rodney Hinton Jr. struck Larry Henderson with his car May 1 as the deputy was directing traffic for the University of Cincinnati commencement. The day before, a Cincinnati police officer shot and killed Hinton's son, 18-year-old Ryan Hinton, while investigating a stolen SUV. Police said Ryan Hinton was holding a gun.

The Buckeye State Sheriff's Association and the Ohio Fraternal Order of Police called on GoFundMe to take down online fundraisers for Rodney Hinton on May 5.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Jay McDonald, president of the 23,000-member Fraternal Order of Police of Ohio, said it is "absolutely outrageous to fundraise off the assassination of a law enforcement officer."

Kayln Lee, a GoFundMe spokesperson, previously told The Enquirer the organization's terms of service prohibit fundraisers for the legal defense of violent crimes.

"GoFundMe did the right thing. Its appreciated," the FOP said in a Facebook post.

The organization posted an email from a GoFundMe representative, who expressed condolences for Henderson and said the fundraisers were an "attempted misuse of the GoFundMe platform."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Regional politics reporter Erin Glynn can be reached at eglynn@enquirer.com, @ee_glynn on X or @eringlynn on Bluesky.

This story was updated with a list of related stories.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati FOP shares GoFundMe email about removing Hinton fundraisers
Nearly 100 students, administrators, teachers and family members clapped, chanted and celebrated Niles West High School English co-teachers Dillin Randolph and Elizabeth Dribin-Khoshaba in a surprise ceremony at Niles West on Monday. The two were named the winners of the Golden Apple award, given by a non-profit organization to celebrate and retain early career educators.

Randolph and Dribin-Khoshaba also made history in being the organizations first winners to be co-teachers, according to Golden Apple President Alan Mather. In addition to winners being recognized as a top 10 early career teacher in the state, the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching prize includes a $5,000 check and a free spring sabbatical at Northwestern University, where Randolph and Dribin-Khoshaba can take a class in any subject they wish.

The reason why were up here is because of the people here, especially you guys right here, Randolph said, motioning to students in his class. We believe in and see you guys here and you believe in us, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The brightest part of my day is going into the classroom and getting to do what I feel like I was destined to do, said Dribin-Khoshaba.

I have my family to thank for that. My dad, my mom are here, and my sister and my sister-in-law (are here), and were all in education. We call it our family business, she added.

Golden Apple has a really special part of my heart. I was a Golden Apple scholar when I graduated from high school, and I would always look to the Golden Apple teachers in my life and as a part of the foundation as just superheroes, Dribin-Khoshaba said.

Dribin-Khoshaba and Randolph nominated one another for the award and were named finalists for it in February.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I think it just is proof of our admiration for one another and the fact that we both made it all the way here, which was a long journey, that youve really met your people, Dribin-Khoshaba said. The only thing more special than winning this award, is to win it with you, she said motioning to Randolph.

The process of how Golden Apple selects its winners for the Award for Excellence in Teaching starts at the nomination level, where a teacher can nominate another teacher for the award, according to Mather. The applications are then reviewed by Golden Apple and a short list of 60 teachers is created. The list is then shortened to 30 finalists.

Golden Apple then interviews administrators, colleagues, community members, students and parents of the 30 finalists. Of those 30 finalists, 10 are selected winners, with this year being the exception in two co-teachers being award recipients, making 11 total winners.

Eighty percent of our scholars stay in teaching for at least five years; thats well beyond national averages, Mather said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Leticia Valadez, a former Golden Apple award recipient who interviewed Randolph and students in his class, said the class she sat in on allowed her to see what made his teaching style different from other teachers.

I think that whats so special about their (Randolph and Dribin-Khoshabas) teaching style is the way that they connect to students. (They are) bringing something thats familiar to them, and allowing them to dive deep and do deep analysis of (a) character and their motives and how they mature, she said, in regards to how the class does readings.

What stood out to me was the way that they empower the students to take the lead in the classroom, said Julianne Collier, a former Golden Apple award recipient who also saw Randolph and Dribin-Khoshaba co-teach. They (the co-teachers) were actually standing off to the side as a supportive role  while the students took the lead and they ran the classroom.

Former Golden Apple award recipient Fiona Johnson reviewed Dribin-Khoshabas teaching style in the interview process.

In other co-teaching situations that Ive been in you can tell who the lead teacher is and whos the supporting teacher, Johnson said. It was seamless, the way they interact with each other it was clear that everything was a co-decision.
A good person would have shut that off: Danville security guard watched kids on dressing room camera

DANVILLE, Ill. (WCIA)  A person is banned from Danville Area Community College after police said they watched children changing from a dressing room camera.

It happened last month during Spotlight Performing Arts showings of Alice in Wonderland. The third-party security guards actions were flagged as suspicious and reported to DACC officials. Once police got to the Bremer Theater and Conference Center, they found that the person watched security camera video for extended periods of time for non-security purposes.

Vermilion Co. officials propose coordinated document shredding program

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To know there was a man on camera watching [the children] in the room, I mean, its sad for all of them, Nicole Atkins said. Whether the camera was in there or not, a good person would have shut that off and been in the hallway watching.

Atkins 9-year-old daughter was one of about 50 others involved in the production.

Shes in dance and all that, but this was her first theater and now she doesnt want to join another theater production because shes scared this is going to happen again, Atkins said.

DACC Interim President Randy Fletcher sent an email to parents about the incident. That was the first time Atkins and others learned about the security guards actions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fletcher said the security guards actions were reported to campus security who then notified Danville Police. WCIA reached out to DACC officers on Tuesday, who did not say why the extra security was needed.

[DACC has] their own police officers, their own everything, so I dont even understand how a third party was even allowed to be in there to watch it, Atkins said.

Fletcher said DACCs internal investigation found the security guard did not copy, save or transmit any video from the dressing room camera.

Vermilion Co. man sentenced to prison in second counterfeit conviction

Spotlight Performing Arts Executive Director Bailey Thompson said none of the performers were ever fully undressed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Our highest priority is creating a safe, welcoming, and empowering space for all children, Thompson said in a statement to WCIA. That will never change. If anything, this situation has made us more committed than ever to safeguarding that mission.

The Vermilion County States Attorney Jacqueline Lacy said an investigation by the Danville Police and her office found there is no criminal conduct to be charged. Thats unsettling for Atkins who wonders how similar instances can be prevented in the future if no legal action is being taken.

Its upsetting that the guy is pretty much being told its okay that you sit in front of a camera and watch girls change, but go home, Atkins said.

Thompson feels similarly, saying the impacted children deserve more from the legal system.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While this chapter may be over legally, for us, it is not over morally or ethically, Thompson said. We will continue to fight for the kids involved and for the justice they deserve. These children matter deeply, and their experiences should not be dismissed or overlooked.

DACC has since issued the security guard a lifetime ban from campus. That means officers could arrest the person for trespassing if found at any DACC campuses, facilities or events.

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.
Google DeepMind's CEO says undergraduates should spend their time "learning to learn."

Change will be the only constant in the next decade, Demis Hassabis told students at Cambridge.

Upon graduation, students should know their passions and the core fundamentals, he said.

University of Cambridge students submitted questions to Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis earlier this year, and many of them wanted to know how they should focus their time in the age of AI.

His advice? Spend your time "learning to learn."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I think really understanding  using the time you have as an undergraduate to understand yourself better, and how you learn best," Hassabis said in an interview at Queens' College, Cambridge. Adaptability, or "how to pick up new material really quickly and getting adept at that," is key, he said.

Hassabis, who graduated from Cambridge and sat for an interview with Professor Alastair Beresford in March, said that today's college students will be entering a world where the only predictable factor is "an incredible amount of disruption and change," because of developing technologies. He also offered his view on which industries he expected to grow.

"I would say especially AI, but also VR, AR, you know, quantum computing," he said. "All of these things are sort of looking like they're going to be promising in the next five to 10 years."

Anytime there is change, he added, there is also "huge" opportunity.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I think we're about to enter a period like that, perhaps like in the '90s when we were graduating, you know, it was the internet, and mobile, and gaming," Hassabis said. "I think we're in another one of those eras. So they're very exciting, but you've got to be very nimble and embrace the new technologies that are coming down the line."

Hassabis said students should focus on the fundamentals. Though there's always likely to be a new fad, it's better to avoid becoming distracted by things that could be "in fashion today, but out of fashion tomorrow."

"I remember my favorite topics were things like computation theory and information theory, you know, studying things like Turing machines," Hassabis said. "That stayed with me for my whole career, really. So, I like the kind of mathematical underpinnings and a lot of the traditional, foundational work."

But students shouldn't neglect their passions, either, he added. By the time they're done with school, Hassabis said graduates should be able to "combine" deep knowledge of their interests with the core skills they've developed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"In your spare time, you should be probably experimenting with whatever your passionate area is," Hassabis said. "In my case, it would be AI. With all the tools that are coming out  and a lot of it's very accessible and open source and so on  so that you really are up to speed with the absolute latest when you graduate."

Hassabis suggested that graduate students develop expertise across a variety of fields. If they're learning about AI, for instance, they should also know where best to apply it.

"I feel like multidisciplinary research is really going to come to the fore in the next sort of decade," he said.

There's likely to be a lot of "low-hanging fruit" where artificial intelligence and STEM fields intersect, he added, so it's important to know enough about both subject areas to understand what the "right questions" are  as asking them could lead to breakthroughs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Picking the question is about having this sort of taste or smell, if you like, of intuition, of, 'What is the right problem?' Is it the right time to tackle that problem, as well?" Hassabis said. "Because timing can be really difficult. You don't want to really be 50 years ahead of your time."

And though Hassabis said you can't really train that sixth sense, you can keep an open mind and be ready to jump at the opportunities when they do appear.

"They can come up from anywhere," he said. "So that kind of goes with being multidisciplinary, exposing yourself to a wide range of ideas."

Read the original article on Business Insider
(Reuters) -Alphabet's Google said on Wednesday it has identified new malware called "LOSTKEYS" tied to the Russian-based hacking group Cold River, which is capable of stealing files and sending system information to attackers.

The malware "marks a new development in the toolset" of Cold River, Wesley Shields, a researcher with Google Threat Intelligence Group, said in a blog.

Cold River, a name used to track hacking campaigns previously linked to Russia's Federal Security Service, is primarily known for stealing login credentials for high-profile targets, including those within NATO governments, non-governmental organizations and former intelligence and diplomatic officers, Shields said in the blog. The central goal was intelligence collection in support of Russian strategic interests.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Recent targets, observed in January, March and April 2025, include current and former advisers to Western governments and militaries, as well as journalists, think tanks and NGOs, and unnamed individuals connected to Ukraine, according to the blog.

The Russian embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Past high-profile campaigns have included targeting three nuclear research laboratories in the U.S. in the summer of 2022, and the publishing of the private emails of former British spymaster Richard Dearlove, alongside pro-Brexit individuals, in an operation revealed in May 2022.

(Reporting by Deborah Sophia in Bengaluru and AJ Vicens in Detroit; Editing by Arun Koyyur and Emelia Sithole-Matarise)
WASHINGTON (AP)  Google is partnering with Elementl Power on three project sites for advanced nuclear energy as the energy required to power burgeoning artificial intelligence projects rises sharply.

Under the agreement announced Wednesday, Google will provide capital for the projects, which the companies say will each produce 600 megawatts of power capacity. No dollar figure for Google's investment was given.

Our collaboration with Elementl Power enhances our ability to move at the speed required to meet this moment of AI and American innovation," said Amanda Peterson Corio, Google's head of data center energy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Google and Elementl said they will collaborative with utility and regulated power companies to identify and advance new projects.

We look forward to working with Google to execute these projects and bring safe, carbon-free, baseload electricity to the grid, said Elementl Power Chairman and CEO Chris Colbert.

U.S. states have been positioning themselves to meet the tech industrys power needs as policymakers consider expanding subsidies and gutting regulatory obstacles.

Last year, 25 states passed legislation to support advanced nuclear energy, and lawmakers this year have introduced over 200 bills supportive of nuclear energy, according to the trade association Nuclear Energy Institute.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Advanced reactor designs from competing firms are filling up the federal governments regulatory pipeline as the industry touts them as a reliable, climate-friendly way to meet electricity demands from tech giants desperate to power their fast-growing artificial intelligence platforms.

In October, Amazon announced that it was investing in small nuclear reactors, just two days after a similar announcement by Google.

A month before that, Constellation Energy, the owner of the shuttered Three Mile Island nuclear power plant said it it planned to restart the reactor so tech giant Microsoft could secure power to supply its data centers.

Three Mile Island, located on the Susquehanna River just outside Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was the site of the nations worst commercial nuclear power accident, in 1979.

Amazon, Google and Microsoft also have been investing in solar and wind technologies, which make electricity without producing greenhouse gas emissions.

Elementl Power was founded in 2022.
May 7 (UPI) -- Google and Elementl Power said Wednesday they are collaborating with to develop nuclear power projects with a goal of bringing more than 10 gigawatts online in the United States by 2035.

"Innovative partnerships like this are necessary to mobilize the capital required to build new nuclear projects, which are critical to deliver safe, affordable and clean base-load power and help companies advance their long-term net zero goals," said Elementl Power Chair and CEO Chris Colbert in a statement.

Google Global Head of Data Center Energy Amanda Peterson Corio said in a statement, "Google is committed to catalyzing projects that strengthen the power grids where we operate, and advanced nuclear technology provides reliable, base-load, 24/7 energy."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The companies will partner on nuclear power projects at three sites

Google's role in the partnership is to commit "early-stage development capital to advance the development of three projects."

Each project is expected to generate at least 600 megawatts of nuclear power.

"This agreement is part of our continued work to source 24/7 base-load energy to support our operations and strengthen power grids. It also helps Elementl advance its goal of bringing significant nuclear capacity online by 2035," Google said in a statement,

Elementl Power Co-Founder and President Ryan Mills said in a statement, "My partners and I launched Elementl Power in 2022 to solve a critical industry need and serve as a catalyst for private capital formation in advanced nuclear projects. This partnership with Google represents a significant milestone in Elementl Power's growth trajectory."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In March Google joined Meta, Amazon and other big corporate energy users in a pledge to support nuclear energy expansion.

It's an effort to accelerate a rapid expansion of nuclear power.

In October Google announced that it would buy nuclear energy from several small reactors developed by Kairos Power, a California-based company.

The nuclear moves are Google's solution for providing the immense power required by AI without increasing its carbon footprint.

The first reactor in that deal is projected to be up and running by 2030 with more reactors coming online by 2035.
Rep. Randy Fine (R-Fla.) recently added to his ever-growing list of bigoted remarks  endorsing the starvation campaign against Palestinians in Gaza, falsely accusing a Muslim member of Congress of being a terrorist and doubling down on those beliefs to HuffPost this week.

The Florida Republican dealt with major online backlash last week for his response to a post on X by Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.) in which she labeled Israels ongoing aid blockade to Gaza a war crime as it causes mass starvation in the war-torn Palestinian territory.

The only way to end this genocide is with an arms embargo, Tlaib wrote on Thursday. Time for my colleagues to end their silence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fine replied the following day with a string of inflammatory posts that falsely called Tlaib  a Palestinian American who was born and raised in Michigan  a terrorist. His posts also included hashtags that endorsed starving people in Gaza, despite it being a violation of international humanitarian law to use starvation as a weapon.

Tell your fellow Muslim terrorists to release the hostages and surrender, Fine wrote, referring to the remaining Israelis being held captive by Hamas. Until then, #StarveAway.

The next post read, Hey Muslim terrorists, cry harder. #StarveAway, which was followed by, I love blocking Muslim terrorists. They clearly arent too hungry. #KeepOn Starving.

A post on May 3 by Rep. Randy Fine (R-Fla.) endorsed continuing to starve Palestinians in Gaza and called a Muslim colleague in the House a "terrorist." X

Despite the posts overwhelmingly receiving negative reactions, Fine did not retract his comments. When HuffPost asked the lawmaker on Tuesday to clarify his accusation against Tlaib, he responded, I mean, look at what she believes. I believe if you support Muslim terror, you are a terrorist.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When HuffPosts Arthur Delaney asked what he was referring to, Fine laughed before asking, Do you need a list?

I think you just look in general, you know? he continued. So yeah, I dont mince words, as you all will learn. I think youve got to call good good, and evil evil.

Fine has made a variety of offensive comments on social media, mostly before he narrowly won a special election last month to represent Floridas 6th District in Congress.

In an April 4, 2019, post on Facebook, Fine accused a progressive panel on Israel and Palestine of being antisemitic. When a Jewish panel organizer pushed back on Fines claims and noted that most of the panel was Jewish, the lawmaker dismissed them as Judenrat  a World War II-era term used to describe a Nazi-installed Jewish council.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On May 15, 2021, Fine called Palestinians animals on social media and replied in the affirmative to a commenter who asked if it was OK to bomb a building with American reporters in it. The following month, he allegedly told a Muslim Floridian on Messenger to blow themselves up and tweeted, Thanks for the pic! in response to a photo of a Palestinian baby reportedly killed by an Israeli airstrike.

Randy Fine speaks with the media after winning the 6th District race to replace former U.S. Rep. Michael Waltz, on April 1, 2025, in Ormond Beach, Florida. Joe Raedle via Getty Images

On Dec. 2, 2023, Fine tweeted that Israel should stop aid trucks from entering Gaza, saying Palestinians should eat rockets instead and including the hashtag #BombsAway.

On Sept. 6, 2024, the lawmaker responded to Israels killing of American peace activist Aysenur Eygi in the West Bank with, Throw rocks, get shot. One less #MuslimTerrorist. #FireAway.

On Nov. 26 of last year, Fine appeared to threaten Tlaib and Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.)  the first two Muslim women elected to the House  calling himself the Hebrew Hammer and telling the lawmakers to consider leaving before I get there. On Jan. 2, he tweeted that he was in Jerusalem talking about the need to solve Americas #MuslimProblem.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At a March 29 Florida state Senate hearing  just days before his election to Congress  Fine told an attendee wearing a keffiyeh to enjoy your terrorist rag. The lawmaker then threatened to clear the room after some objected to his comment, adding, Im the chairman, I can say whatever I want.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations said Tuesday it has sent letters to more than 1,600 congressional staffers urging House members to publicly condemn Fines bigoted rhetoric and hold him accountable for his remarks.

Randy Fines long and documented history of promoting bigotry and political violence is a danger to his colleagues, to American Muslims and Palestinians, and to the foundational principles of our democracy, CAIR Government Affairs Department Director Robert McCaw said in a statement. Congress must take a stand against hate before it further poisons our national discourse or incites real-world violence and acts of terrorism.

It was unclear whether Tlaibs fellow Democrats have spoken up in her defense or condemned Fines comments since the Friday posts. A spokesperson for Rep. Pete Aguilar (Calif.), who chairs the House Democratic caucus, did not respond to HuffPosts request for comment on Wednesday.

Arthur Delaney contributed reporting.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The president of Haverford College was berated by Republican lawmakers in a congressional hearing on campus antisemitism Wednesday, with some suggesting the school should lose federal funding because of her refusal to discuss student discipline in the wake of pro-Palestinian protests.

Wendy Raymond appeared alongside two other college presidents on Capitol Hill but was singled out as the only one who would not detail punishments for students and faculty accused of anti-Jewish bias. Asked repeatedly, Raymond said her institution does not publicize the outcomes of disciplinary processes.

I suppose its your First Amendment right to be evasive, but its also our right to decide that such institutions are not deserving of taxpayer money, said Republican Rep. Bob Onder of Missouri.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Also appearing before the House Committee on Education and the Workforce were Jeffrey Armstrong of California Polytechnic State University and Robert Manuel of DePaul University. It was the latest in a series of hearings scrutinizing university presidents over their responses to allegations of anti-Jewish bias in the wake of Hamas Oct. 7, 2023, attacks on Israel and a wave of protests that swept the nations campuses.

Unlike others that featured leaders of Harvard, Columbia and other elite institutions  with stumbles that later contributed to their resignations  this one intentionally focused on lesser-known schools. Republicans sought to look beyond the Ivy League to underscore the pervasiveness of antisemitism on U.S. campuses.

The committee's leaders aimed to choose a diverse mix of colleges. Haverford is a small liberal arts school outside Philadelphia, founded by Quakers. DePaul is a Catholic university with an urban campus in Chicago. Cal Poly is a campus of 22,000 students in San Luis Obispo.

For more than three hours, Republicans grilled the presidents over reports of anti-Jewish harassment on their campuses, ranging from social media posts to the physical attack of two Jewish students at DePaul. Democrats denounced the hearing, calling it political theater that does little to fight discrimination.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The trio of presidents mostly struck a deferential tone, acknowledging some missteps while highlighting work to make students feel safer. Raymond and Manuel apologized for shortcomings, while Armstrong said we have to do better holding people accountable for prejudice.

But while the presidents of Cal Poly and DePaul shared information on disciplinary action against antisemitism, Raymond refused.

We do not talk about those numbers publicly, she said when pressed on the question. She acknowledged some action had taken but declined to go further.

It drew a searing rebuke from Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., known for orchestrating fiery exchanges with former presidents of Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania that contributed to their resignations last year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Respectfully, president of Haverford, many people have sat in this position who are no longer in their positions as presidents of universities for their failure to answer straightforward questions, Stefanik said.

Stefanik questioned Raymond over a professor's social media post describing the Hamas attacks as imprisoned people breaking free from their chains. Raymond called it repugnant but refused to discuss individual cases.

DePauls president faced scrutiny over his handling of a pro-Palestinian encampment. Protesters took over a campus quad at the Chicago university for 17 days, causing $180,000 in property damage, according to the school. Police cleared the encampment and said they found knives, a pellet gun and other weapons.

My question is, if there is another encampment, are you taking it down that next day? asked Rep. Mary Miller, R-Ill.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Yes, Manuel said.

Other Republicans endorsed the idea of funding cuts for schools that refuse to disclose punishments, saying Congress should explore the issue. Rep. Ryan Mackenzie of Pennsylvania said it should be a baseline for receiving funding.

Republicans began the series of hearings in late 2023 and have routinely called education leaders to Capitol Hill to testify. Those called include chiefs of Harvard, Columbia, Penn, Northwestern University and the University of California, Los Angeles.

The Trump administration has separately frozen billions of dollars in grants to colleges targeted by a federal antisemitism task force. Those targeted include Columbia, Penn and Harvard, which is suing to restore $2.2 billion in grants. The Education Department doubled down last week, saying Harvard is no longer eligible for new grants.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

___

The Associated Press education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.
Photo by Jim Small | Arizona Mirror

The same legislative Republicans who have accused Arizonas governor of appointing unqualified people to head state agencies are hoping to nix qualification requirements for their own appointments to a litany of state boards and commissions.

On May 5, the Arizona House of Representatives voted along party lines to axe requirements for legislative appointments to various boards and commissions. The bill that the House approved, Senate Bill 1649, is sponsored by Senate President Warren Petersen, the top Republican in the Senate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Tuesday, Petersen issued a statement touting the importance of the Senate Committee for Director Nominations, which he said is ensuring that agency directors nominated by Gov. Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, are qualified.

Petersen told the Arizona Mirror via email that the two situations did not make for an apples-to-apples comparison.

The difference is that the confirmation process on director nominees exists to further the system of checks and balances, he said. The Legislature amending the way the Legislature makes board selections has nothing to do with separation of powers or checks and balances. The (current) qualifications are so narrow that they may eliminate more qualified individuals.

The Director Nominations Committee, which Petersen created in 2023 specifically to vet Hobbs director nominees, has held a series of contentious and combative nomination hearings since then. A number of Hobbs choices to head up state agencies have faced intense partisan questioning of their past political activity and demands that they explain their views on culture war issues far outside the scope of their jobs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Petersens proposal, which already passed through the Senate, also on a party-line vote, will head back to that chamber for final approval after being amended in the House before its sent to Hobbs to either sign or veto it.

Senate Bill 1649 eliminates requirements for entities such as special taxing districts, the Arizona Water Protection Fund Commission and the Joint Legislative Budget Committee to have specific expertise or interest in the issues that they govern.

For instance, it removes the requirement that legislative appointees to the Economic Estimates Commission be knowledgeable about economics and that appointees to the Arizona Water Protection Fund Commission have demonstrated an interest in natural resources  and that they represent geographically diverse areas of the state.

It also throws out a requirement for legislators appointed to the Joint Legislative Budget Committee to be selected based on their understanding of and interest in legislative audit oversight functions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Democratic Sen. Lauren Kuby, of Tempe, said during a March 6 debate on the Senate floor that, as a former Tempe City Council member who voted on board appointments, she sympathized with the struggle to find willing and qualified applicants.

Im really worried about the wholesale removal of expertise from 11 different boards and commissions, she said.

Kuby is a member of the Joint Legislative Budget Committee, which makes recommendations to the Legislature on all facets of the complicated state budget.

Its really not clear to me what this bill is trying to accomplish, she said.

Petersen told the House Government Committee on March 26 that it was a very straightforward bill, the same way that Sen. Jake Hoffman described it in the Senate Government Committee meeting on Feb. 19.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This just simply opens it up so that we have more applicants available for these appointments to boards and commissions, Petersen said, adding that its been difficult to find applicants who meet all the qualifications laid out in statute, but that weve been able to find people that are otherwise qualified for these positions.

House Government Committee Chairman Walt Blackman initially voted against Petersens proposal on March 26, but after a recess during which Blackman said they worked out some legal issues, so we dont end up in jail, he voted to approve the bill.

During an April 1 Republican Caucus meeting, Blackman said that he wasnt sure if Senate Bill 1649 would pass a vote of the full House, given that there were a lot of questions about it.

Blackman never explained his concerns about the bill and did not respond to requests for comment, but he ultimately voted to approve the proposal on May 5.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Between the Government Committee hearing on March 26 and the May 5 vote, Petersens bill was amended to remove proposed changes to qualification requirements for appointees to the Arizona Commerce Authority. The ACA is an economic development organization that was accused by Attorney General Kris Mayes last year of violating the Arizona Constitutions gift clause by hosting forums that amounted to pricey gifts to the CEOs who attended them.

During an April 16 floor debate, after SB1649 had been amended, Democratic Rep. Nancy Gutierrez, of Tucson, called the proposal dangerous.

I just want to point out that this takes away that the appointees have to have any kind of expertise or knowledge of the board that they are sitting on, she said. This sets Arizona up to have boards and commissions with people who literally have nothing to do with them.

During the same discussion, Democratic Rep. Betty Villegas, also of Tucson, said she was confused about whether Republicans wanted qualified people on the job or not, referencing a push from legislative Republicans this year to ban diversity, equity and inclusion in hiring, to be replaced with a focus on merit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ive been on plenty of commissions and boards where I was qualified, and when you have people that are not qualified, it really hurts moving forward on your goals, she said.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
At the crossroads of eras and imaginations, LEpee 1839 transforms simple objects or legendary artifacts into extraordinary horological creations. A selection of five pieces that tell far more than just the passing of time.

Watch Box

A true work of art with meticulous, handmade, in-house finishes, this transparent case highlights each piece it protects by delicately revealing it with a simple press of a button. When the lid is closed, its internal mechanism automatically winds itself, revealing gears and levers as complex as the movements of the mechanical watches that inspired it.

Watch Box  L'Epee 1839

The Dragon

To celebrate the year 2024, the Year of the Dragon, and to honor the revered animal of Chinese culture, LEpee 1839 presents a sculptural, high-precision table clock that brings the legend to life. Powered by the Swiss-made 1853 caliber, entirely created by the Maison and specially designed to fit the creatures curves, this limited edition of 88 pieces is available in gold-plated, palladium-plated, or red lacquered finishes.

Dragon  L'Epee 1839

Grenade x The Dial Artist

When several artists meet, magic happens: the Grenade series, each piece unique, was born from the diverse skills of LEpee 1839s artisans and the vibrant brushstrokes of Chris Alexander, aka The Dial Artist. Featuring an in-house mechanical winding movement offering 8 days of power reserve, this table clock is triggered (and wound) by pulling the pin. The gesture is playful, and the regular, incessant clicking serves as a constant auditory reminder that every second counts. LEpee 1839 brilliantly repurposed the military object into a colorful, vibrant, and truly alive manifesto.

Grenade x The Dial Artist  L'Epee 1839

Albatross

A lasting and awe-inspiring collaboration between LEpee 1839 and MB&F: the Albatross is by far their boldest co-creation. Two movements, three barrels, 32 propellers, 17 kg, 8 days of autonomy for the chiming clock, and one day for the automaton... Designed and created as a tribute to the world of Jules Verne, this miniature vessel, limited to 8 pieces per color, combines mechanical prowess with retrofuturistic poetry. When the hours chime, this extraordinary piece comes to life with a beat of its propeller, ready to take flight. Pure genius!

Albatross  L'Epee 1839

T35

A marvel of craftsmanship and engineering, this clock shaped like a mini race car, unveiled by LEpee 1839 on the occasion of its 185th anniversary, is the must-have accessory for the perfect gentleman wishing to add a touch of luxury to his office. Inspired by 1930s racing cars, the T35 displays hours and minutes on the side, is wound through the rear wheels, and offers 8 days of autonomy. The steering wheel is used to set the time, while the handbrake releases a flame hidden under the hood. Available in four racing colors, the T35 blends vintage spirit with horological expertise in a limited edition of 100 pieces per color.
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN)  The North Carolina State Board of Elections is now under new leadership. Wednesday morning, a new board was sworn-in, creating a Republican majority.

Republican Robert Anthony Rucho and previous board member Stacy Clyde Eggers IV join Francis De Luca, who was elected chair in a 3-2 vote along party lines.

PREVIOUS | North Carolina court says stripping governor of election board appointments can go ahead for now

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Also sworn in were Siobhan ODuffy Millen and Jeff Carmon. Both Democrats served on the previous state elections board.

The new political make-up of the board comes after the GOP state auditor, Dave Boliek, appointed the new panel. The previous Republican controlled General Assembly passed a law moving the power of appointment from the governor to the state auditor. An appeals court ruled earlier this month that a law shifting that power away from the Democratic governor could still be enforced while its constitutionality is deliberated.

NC Auditor appoints new members to state Board of Elections in turning point of election power

Attorneys for Governor Josh Stein, a Democrat, argue the bill unlawfully interferes with the governors responsibility in the state constitution to take care that laws are faithfully executed.

First action: Replacing the director

Among the first actions the board took was to replace current NCSBE election director Karen Brinson Bell. Its a role she has served since June 1, 2019. The vote was 3-2 among party lines.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sam Hayes was named as Bells replacement as of May 15, for a two-year term. In a statement to CBS 17, Auditor Dave Boliek said, Sam has the experience and integrity to properly manage the State Board of Elections. Hes worked across state agencies, and as an accomplished attorney he brings a sharp legal mind to the table. With his background and dedication, Im confident in his leadership capabilities to improve election management in North Carolina. This is a great hire.

Bell asked to speak before the board during the open meeting but was denied the request by the chair. However, Bell provided the following statement to CBS 17, which she was prepared to read in the meeting.

Six years ago, I was appointed executive director for the North Carolina State Board of Elections, a role I never envisioned I would hold but what I know will forever be the greatest honor of my life. While I would have liked to have continued to serve the county election boards and the voters of North Carolina in this capacity, this State Board has made a different decision.

Knowing this will be the last State Board meeting in my tenure as North Carolinas chief election official, Id like to first say thank you to the prior State Board members for having the faith that I could lead this organization back to place where voters have renewed confidence in our elections following the turmoil of the Congressional District 9 election in 2018. With my appointment, the Board charged me to steer this agency and our statewide efforts towards a proactive position, where the administration of elections ensured well trained election professionals, uniform and efficient processes, and a commitment to customer service and making that every eligible voter in our state could exercise their right to vote. Even through 70 changes in county election directors, we set records and restored confidence in our election systems. In 2020, we had the highest voter turnout in our state ever at 75.4%, followed by the second highest turnout in the 2024 Presidential Election at 73.7%. We set three other records in 2024: the highest voter population in state history at over 7.8 million registered voters, the most voters ever served at 5.7+ million ballots cast, and the most votes ever cast during the early voting period at 4.2+ million. Last years records were set despite the devastation of Hurricane Helene, and in 2020 we prevailed even through the global pandemic. No matter the challenge, we held to the mantra, We dont stop an election; we figure out how to proceed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And proceeded we have, by implementing numerous new services and programs such as:

the absentee request portal, allowing civilians to request their absentee ballots online and allowing our military, citizens living abroad, and visually impaired to cast their ballots electronically;

a partnership with DMV to allow voters to register to vote and update their voter registration online;

certification of new voting systems;

implementation of Voter ID;

and creation of the now nationally recognized Attack Response Kits (ARKs) to stand up an elections office in case of a cyber attack on county government or to assist through natural disasters.

The list of accomplishments is numerous and has led to the State Board of Elections receiving four awards from the U.S. Elections Assistance Commission, two awards from the national Election Center, and recognition from the North Carolina Local Government Information Systems Association (NCLGISA). The success is possible because we have expanded communication with the counties and formed a collaborative approach to work as a Team of 101  one state board and 100 county boards working together to serve the voters of our state. We have formed partnerships to extend our resources and skill set including teaming up with NC Emergency Management, NC National Guard, NC Department of Information Technology, the NC Sheriffs Association, and the NC Association of Chiefs of Police, to name a few.

We have done this work on a limited and reduced budget. We have done this work with a smaller State Board staff in 2024 than we had in 2020. We have done this work under incredibly difficult circumstances and in a toxic political environment that has targeted election professionals with harassment and threats.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ive worked in the elections field at all levels over the past 19 years. This is a very different environment that I hope can be restored to the civility that once existed. I hope we can get to a place in this country, and especially in this State that I hold so dear, where dedicated, hardworking election workers are supported and rewarded for their work, rather than vilified by those who dont like the outcome. I hope we return to a time when those who lose elections concede defeat rather than trying to tear down the entire election system and erode voter confidence. And I hope we recognize that the conduct of elections is the very core of our democracy and should be properly and consistently funded, regardless of the party or the person in control, so that the voice of the people can be recorded accurately, securely, and fairly.

These should not be aspirations but rather reality.

Every day since February 1, 2006, when I took my first job in elections, I have come to love this profession, the people Im fortunate enough to work with, and the voters I serve more than the day before  even on the worst days, and even on the day that Im being removed from my position as State Elections Director. This is more than a profession; its a passion. Thank you to my elections family for the honor and privilege to carry out this work alongside you. And last but certainly not least, thank you to the voters of North Carolina, even those who have questioned my integrity and hurled unfounded insults. Ensuring the right to vote of every North Carolinian has been my guiding compass. Thank you for your trust and confidence in upholding such a fundamental right and the honor to serve you.

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 CBS17.com.
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WKRN)  News 2 crews drove to Memphis on Tuesday to speak with Governor Bill Lee following a public safety operation involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and troopers with the Tennessee Highway Patrol over the weekend.

On Sunday, three charter buses were seen leaving a Homeland Security field office after THP troopers reported conducting dozens of traffic stops in areas with a history of serious traffic crashes and suspected gang activity. Lee was in Memphis Tuesday for the unveiling of a new roundabout at Interstate 55 and Crump Boulevard.

State lawmakers react to ICE activity in South Nashville

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lee told News 2 he would continue to support President Donald Trumps efforts to go after illegal and criminal activity.

As weve said from the beginning, we want to be a willing partner with the federal government to remove criminals from our streets and to the degree that they have an action we want to be a part of that, Lee said.

Lee claimed the state was made aware of the ICE operation ahead of time and would continue to offer its assistance with these efforts.

I think we all know  the country knows  that over the past four years, a lot of really bad actors have made their way into this country over the border, drug and gang activity and criminals of all types, Lee said. President Trump was very clear that he was going to work to remove those folks from our country. Americans elected him to do that, and this ICE activity thats happening and that has happened in Nashville is exactly what thats about. It is about an effort to remove criminals from the streets.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They just separated us: Woman details traffic stop after she and fiance were allegedly pulled over by ICE

News 2 asked Lee if he knew which individuals may have been on the buses seen leaving the ICE facility, or if he knew where they were heading. He referred News 2 to ICE. News 2 has reached out to ICE 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 WKRN News 2.
Indiana Gov. Mike Braun signs legislation into law from his Statehouse office on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. (From Braun's official X account)

Indianas next two-year, $44 billion budget at last became law on Tuesday with Gov. Mike Brauns signature, along with 62 other measures.

Legislative leaders sent them to the governors desk on April 29, the last day of the legislative session. That started a seven-day clock for Braun to either sign or veto the stack; afterward, they wouldve passed into law without him.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This morning, I signed a balanced, responsible biennial budget that protects Indianas strong fiscal foundation while investing in our future, an afternoon post on Brauns X account read.

This budget will preserve our reserves, maintain our AAA credit rating, and deliver on key priorities  including education, public safety, and tax relief for Hoosiers, the post continued. (Im) Grateful to our fiscal leaders for their work navigating a tight revenue forecast and ensuring government stays efficient and focused on what matters most.

A grim revenue forecast forced the states budget architects to chop $2 billion in spending from the 232-page House Enrolled Act 1001 in just a week. That entailed 5% cuts to public higher educational institutions and most state agencies, a 25% cut to the states quasi-public economic development arm, and a 60% cut to public health funding, among others.

Funding was nixed entirely for trails, public broadcasting, and musician-philanthropist Dolly Partons Imagination Library  which mails free books to children up to 5 years old to promote literacy. First Lady Maureen Braun has launched a fundraising initiative to sustain the last program.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lawmakers also raised taxes on tobacco products after years of resistance.

The budget gives the Department of Correction, the Department of Child Services and the Family and Social Services Administration a combined augmentation fund of $300 million to cover unexpected expenses. Money will be distributed at Brauns discretion.

That trio of agencies receives the most state money besides K-12 education, which eats up 48% of the budget. Public schools earned a modest 2% increase. And in the budgets second year, Indiana will drop remaining income limits and move to a universal taxpayer-funded school choice voucher system.

Other bills nab signatures

Major legislation establishing price transparency requirements for clinical laboratories and diagnostic imaging centers, limiting anti-competitive health provider-insurer contract provisions, curtailing nonprofit hospital service charges, mandating health care ownership reporting and banning hospital-physician non-compete agreements also become law Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Advocates celebrated.

Americans across the country and in Indiana are grappling with unaffordable health care costs driven by the unchecked growth of big health care corporations.  Indiana is no exception, suffering from some of the highest health care costs in the country, Sophia Tripoli, a senior director of health policy at Families USA, said in a statement.

Legislative paperwork lies arranged in baskets in the House chamber on Thursday, April 3, 2025. (Leslie Bonilla Muniz/Indiana Capital Chronicle)

Tripoli called the new laws a major step to fight back against these main drivers of high health care costs and bring down prices for patients and their families. She urged lawmakers at state legislatures across the country, as well as in Congress, to follow (Brauns) lead.

Braun has indicated theres more to come, telling reporters last week that tackling Indianas high health care costs and poor outcomes is his top priority. He repeatedly asked health care industry players for solutions while threatening punishment for stasis.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Other newly minted laws include:

To see the full list of signed bills, visit the governors 2025 Bill Watch page.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  Governor Spencer Cox has declared May 7 as Childrens Mental Health Awareness Day, seeking to focus on education, early intervention, increasing access to care, and reducing barriers to service.

Mental health challenges dont discriminatethey can impact anyone, including our children and teens, said Utah Governor Spencer J. Cox. We must continue to shine a light on the importance of mental health and recognize the struggles many young people face. By coming together as a community, we can offer meaningful support and strengthen Utahs younger generations.

How to protect your teeth after the fluoridation ban: DHHS offers tips

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The declaration comes in partnership with the Childrens Center Utah, an organization that focuses on providing trauma-informed, evidence-based mental care exclusively to infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and their parents and caregivers.

This marks the fourth time that the state has recognized a day in May, which is nationally recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, to elevate the importance of childrens mental health.

Mental health is foundational to a childs development, yet its often overlooked, said The Childrens Center Utah president and CEO Rebecca Dutson.

The declaration refers to research conducted by The Childrens Center Utah and the Kem. C Gardner Policy Institute that found rates of untreated mental health needs for Utah children are among the highest in the U.S. The research also found nearly 50% of Utah adults with a mental health condition are not receiving treatment, urging the importance of recognition and awareness.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Additionally, in Utah, suicide is currently the second leading cause of death among youth ages 10 to 17.

In April 2024, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found that 72% of U.S. counties lack a practicing child and adolescent psychiatrist, highlighting the need for care nationwide.

In Utah, we have the opportunity to lead by example. When we invest in our childrens mental health, were building stronger families, schools, and communities for generations to come, Dutson said.

Childrens-Mental-Health-Awareness-Declaration-253858Download

Latest headlines:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Gov. Ron DeSantis said May 7 he would veto a proposed cut to the state sales tax, claiming it would jeopardize his push for cuts to property taxes.

Any 'Florida last' tax package is going to be dead on arrival, he told reporters at an event in Tampa. We are not going to kneecap our ability to provide you property tax relief just so we can give a little bit of a benefit to Canadian tourists. That is not going to happen, so you can take that to the bank.

The veto threat could upend what was called a framework for a budget deal agreed to by House and Senate leaders, who failed to reach an agreement during the 60-day regular session that ended May 2. Lawmakers are set to return to Tallahassee May 12 to hammer out the details on a likely $115 billion budget.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But the framework includes a $1.6 billion cut to the state sales tax, lowering it from 6% to 5.75%. The total tax cut package would come to $2.8 billion, but what it will include is yet to be determined.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (left), House Speaker Daniel Perez.

DeSantis has been feuding with House Speaker Daniel Perez, R-Miami, since the start of the year on several issues, including tax cuts. While Perez originally pushed for a 0.75% cut to the sales tax, saving consumers about $5 billion, DeSantis has insisted on a property tax cut.

In a statement responding to DeSantis' remarks, Perez said lawmakers could cut the sales tax and property taxes and rejected the Governor's framing of the issue.

Im concerned about how confused the governor seems to be. He is threatening to veto the largest state tax cut in history, and his excuse is that it limits our ability to cut local property taxes? Thats bizarre," Perez said. "We can cut the sales tax by the largest amount in the history of our country and place a ballot initiative on property taxes on the 2026 ballot. This isnt about whether we can do both  its about whether we will."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After floating the idea of eliminating property taxes completely, but without a concrete plan to do so, DeSantis unveiled a proposal on March 31 at a conference with Florida Realtors in Orlando to provide up to $1,000 for homestead property owners.

Under that plan, the state would pay for the portion of property taxes that go to K-12 public schools, backfilling it with state money and giving homestead owners a rebate.

That would allow homeowners to get the rebate later this year, which would be faster than the normal route of property tax cuts, where the Legislature puts a measure on the ballot in 2026 and, if voters approve, homeowners would see the cuts in 2027.

More: The winners and losers (so far) of the 2025 Florida legislative session

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But neither the House or the Senate included that plan in its budget, and it doesnt appear it will be part of talks between chambers next week.

Perez panned that plan in his statement, likening it to a proposal Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom would support: "I give the governor credit for starting this debate, but hes had months to produce an actual plan to lower property tax rates, and were still waiting. An imaginary plan cant cut real taxes."

"The Governors team would like to respond that they do have a plan: send $1,000 checks from the state treasury as a fake refund for local property taxes. In fairness, it is consistent with the governors record. He likes these Newsom-style 'free' money giveaways. Giving away $1,000 checks in a way that doesnt actually lower property taxes isnt a Band-Aid much less a solution," Perez added.

The House advanced an alternative plan to use tourist development taxes to backfill a cut in property taxes next year, but the Senate is unlikely to accept that proposal as it also includes eliminating tourist development councils, which the tourist industry argues are needed to keep people flocking to the state.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lack of action on property taxes has angered DeSantis, who dubbed Perezs chamber the House of Pettiness at one point in the session.

DeSantis has emphasized that his property tax proposal would benefit Florida residents more, as opposed to a sales tax cut which he says would disproportionately help tourists.

In the 2021-22 budget year, state economists estimated that households paid 66% of sales taxes, with tourists paying 16% and businesses paying 18%. That was at a time when tourism was still rebounding from the COVID-19 pandemic doldrums.

DeSantis also claimed a sales tax cut would be used by House leaders to claim there isnt enough revenue to pass property tax cuts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Were going in a tangent that is not going to help people in any meaningful way that are Florida residents but will put the final nail in the coffin of any hope to do property tax relief, he said.

Perez, though, is standing by his sales tax cut.

"The House has negotiated a tax package that will put $30 billion back into the economy over the next ten years," Perez said. "If the Governor wants to veto that, hes welcome to explain to the voters why he thinks they do not deserve actual and meaningful tax relief. Maybe the truth is he just wants to spend all of it and be the only one who decides how.

(This story was updated to add new information.)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gray Rohrer is a reporter with the USA TODAY Network-Florida Capital Bureau. He can be reached at grohrer@gannett.com. Follow him on X: @GrayRohrer.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Budget battle erupts: DeSantis torpedoes tax deal with veto threat
Gov. JB Pritzker will join the Democratic governors of New York and Minnesota next month in testifying before a congressional committee about their states policies on cooperating with federal immigration authorities.

Pritzkers office confirmed Tuesday that the governor would voluntarily appear before the U.S. House Oversight Committee on June 12 after its chairman, Republican Rep. James Comer of Kentucky, announced in a news release that Pritzker would testify alongside New Yorks Kathy Hochul and Minnesotas Tim Walz.

The Trump Administration is taking decisive action to deport criminal illegal aliens from our nation but reckless sanctuary states like Illinois, Minnesota, and New York are actively seeking to obstruct federal immigration enforcement, Comer said in his release. The governors of these states must explain why they are prioritizing the protection of criminal illegal aliens over the safety of U.S. citizens, and they must be held accountable,

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pritzker spokesman Alex Gough said in a statement Tuesday that the governor would join the committee to discuss his track record on public safety and the implementation of bipartisan state laws.

Last month, Comer sent a letter inviting the governors to appear before the committee May 15 to discuss their states sanctuary policies. The request came about a month after Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, along with the mayors of New York, Boston and Denver, testified before the same committee about similar policies in their cities.

Johnson touted Chicagos downward trend in crime in his opening statement. He went on to argue throughout the six-hour session that the citys long-standing policy blocking local police from assisting in federal immigration enforcement in fact makes communities safer.

In his initial letter to the governors, Comer labeled Illinois a sanctuary jurisdiction that refuses to fully cooperate with federal immigration enforcement, and wrote: Sanctuary jurisdictions and their obstructionist policies hinder the ability of federal law enforcement officers to effectuate safe arrests and remove dangerous criminals from American communities. This threatens Americans safety.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In support of his claims, Comer pointed to state laws that prohibit local police from participating in immigration enforcement activities and contracting with federal authorities to detain immigrants on their behalf.

Republicans in Washington have been trying to strike down progressive immigration policies such as those in Illinois ever since Trump took office in January.

Trump has attempted to withhold federal funding from jurisdictions with such policies and the Justice Department in February sued Illinois, Chicago and Cook County over their laws. So far, Trumps defunding efforts have been held up in the courts.

Last week, Trumps administration filed a lawsuit alleging the state of Illinois is undermining federal immigration laws with a measure passed by the General Assembly last year aimed at protecting the privacy of workers who arent U.S. citizens.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Wednesday, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is scheduled to hold a news conference in Springfield to highlight how sanctuary policies in Illinois have unleashed violence on American citizens  including rape, sexual assault, murder, shoplifting, and more  while shielding illegal aliens responsible from facing consequence, according to Noems office.

Pritzkers office denied the states immigration policies contradict federal law.

Illinois law is fully compliant with federal law, Gough said, noting that one of the laws Comer singled out was bipartisan and signed into law by a Republican, Pritzkers predecessor, Bruce Rauner.

Despite the rhetoric of Republicans in Congress, this public safety law ensures law enforcement can focus on doing their jobs well while empowering all members of the public, regardless of immigration status, to feel comfortable calling police officers and emergency services if they are in need of help, Gough said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Appearing before the congressional committee offers Pritzker another opportunity to present himself on the national stage as a foil to Trump as the governor courts attention ahead of potential bids for a third term as governor next year and for his partys presidential nomination in 2028.

Pritzker recently made his first appearance on Fox News, garnered widespread media attention  and backlash from the GOP  for a fiery speech to New Hampshire Democrats in which he called for mass protests in response to Trump and Republican policies, and mused with late-night host Jimmy Kimmel about possible nicknames the president might give him.
CHICAGO  Gov. JB Pritzker will join the Democratic governors of New York and Minnesota next month in testifying before a congressional committee about their states policies on cooperating with federal immigration authorities.

Pritzkers office confirmed Tuesday that the governor would voluntarily appear before the U.S. House Oversight Committee on June 12 after its chairman, Republican Rep. James Comer of Kentucky, announced in a news release that Pritzker would testify alongside New Yorks Kathy Hochul and Minnesotas Tim Walz.

The Trump Administration is taking decisive action to deport criminal illegal aliens from our nation but reckless sanctuary states like Illinois, Minnesota, and New York are actively seeking to obstruct federal immigration enforcement, Comer said in his release. The governors of these states must explain why they are prioritizing the protection of criminal illegal aliens over the safety of U.S. citizens, and they must be held accountable,

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pritzker spokesman Alex Gough said in a statement Tuesday that the governor would join the committee to discuss his track record on public safety and the implementation of bipartisan state laws.

Last month, Comer sent a letter inviting the governors to appear before the committee May 15 to discuss their states sanctuary policies. The request came about a month after Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, along with the mayors of New York, Boston and Denver, testified before the same committee about similar policies in their cities.

Johnson touted Chicagos downward trend in crime in his opening statement. He went on to argue throughout the six-hour session that the citys long-standing policy blocking local police from assisting in federal immigration enforcement in fact makes communities safer.

In his initial letter to the governors, Comer labeled Illinois a sanctuary jurisdiction that refuses to fully cooperate with federal immigration enforcement, and wrote: Sanctuary jurisdictions and their obstructionist policies hinder the ability of federal law enforcement officers to effectuate safe arrests and remove dangerous criminals from American communities. This threatens Americans safety.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In support of his claims, Comer pointed to state laws that prohibit local police from participating in immigration enforcement activities and contracting with federal authorities to detain immigrants on their behalf.

Republicans in Washington have been trying to strike down progressive immigration policies such as those in Illinois ever since Trump took office in January.

Trump has attempted to withhold federal funding from jurisdictions with such policies and the Justice Department in February sued Illinois, Chicago and Cook County over their laws. So far, Trumps defunding efforts have been held up in the courts.

Last week, Trumps administration filed a lawsuit alleging the state of Illinois is undermining federal immigration laws with a measure passed by the General Assembly last year aimed at protecting the privacy of workers who arent U.S. citizens.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Wednesday, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is scheduled to hold a news conference in Springfield to highlight how sanctuary policies in Illinois have unleashed violence on American citizens  including rape, sexual assault, murder, shoplifting, and more  while shielding illegal aliens responsible from facing consequence, according to Noems office.

Pritzkers office denied the states immigration policies contradict federal law.

Illinois law is fully compliant with federal law, Gough said, noting that one of the laws Comer singled out was bipartisan and signed into law by a Republican, Pritzkers predecessor, Bruce Rauner.

Despite the rhetoric of Republicans in Congress, this public safety law ensures law enforcement can focus on doing their jobs well while empowering all members of the public, regardless of immigration status, to feel comfortable calling police officers and emergency services if they are in need of help, Gough said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Appearing before the congressional committee offers Pritzker another opportunity to present himself on the national stage as a foil to Trump as the governor courts attention ahead of potential bids for a third term as governor next year and for his partys presidential nomination in 2028.

Pritzker recently made his first appearance on Fox News, garnered widespread media attention  and backlash from the GOP for a fiery speech to New Hampshire Democrats in which he called for mass protests in response to Trump and Republican policies, and mused with late-night host Jimmy Kimmel about possible nicknames the president might give him.

____
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT)  Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded a $150,000 grant to help inmates regain their footing and be prepared for the job market once they are released.

The grant, which is heading to J.F. Ingram State Technical College in Deatsville will help inmates overcome employment barriers by providing them with the training and skills they need to be fully employed.

Released prisoners who have served their sentences deserve the opportunity to successfully transition back into society and that starts with having the necessary training for employment, Gov. Ivey said. This training and guidance through J.F. Ingram will help link former inmates with employers who are seeking skilled workers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to J.F. Ingram, 94% of Alabamas prison population will eventually be released and will need to be employed to meet parole requirements.

J.F. Ingram serves inmates at 17 correctional facilities and 12 Pardons and Paroles locations throughout the state, providing instructional and hands-on training and experience to help them obtain certification and pass required licensing exams.

J. F. Ingram, founded in 1965, provides training for inmates in high-demand labor fields including welding, automotive repair, plumbing, HVAC, carpentry and more.

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) is administering the grant from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Justice.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

ADECA is pleased to join Gov. Ivey in support of this program and the inmates who are determined to successfully transition back into society, ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said.

Gov. Ivey notified Annette Funderburk, president of J.F. Ingram State Technical College, that the grant had been approved.

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.
BECKLEY, WV (WVNS)  Governor Patrick Morrisey recently hit the 100 day mark as the states top elected official.

On Monday, May 5, 2025, he came to Beckley to discuss what he has done, and what he plans to do, for folks in the southern part of the state.

About a month after his inauguration, Morrisey was thrown into the deep end as southern West Virginia was rocked by flooding that devastated communities across multiple counties.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Governor said he is proud of the response his team put together in the immediate aftermath, but the work is far from over.

We know that there are opportunities for risk mitigation into the future. Im hopeful that a lot of the localities are going to take advantage of that, because when you get the Federal approval for disaster relief, its not just the individual and public assistance. You might have the ability to mitigate and get grant money for the future so that you can erect barriers and walls and things that might keep the water out a little bit more, the Governor told 59News.

Morrisey said he feels his offices response to the flooding was swift and effective.

He reported that more than 17 tons of debris have been cleared out of the flood-affected areas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, for folks in hard-hit areas  the recovery effort is far from over.

Many people in southern West Virginia remain in flood-damaged homes, and lots of areas are left without clean drinking water after the floods damaged underground pipes.

The Governor told 59News it is important to him to invest in the economy of southern West Virginia, in particular. One of the ways he plans to do that is with the Microgrids Bill, which aims to bring data centers here to the Mountain State.

[The Microgrids Bill] is going to be able to help data centers move in. Speed to build? Number one. Check. Reliable energy resources? Check. The most favorable energy environment? Check, and a workforce that is ready to go to work on day one. So this is going to be very good for southern West Virginia and the entire state, said Morrisey.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Governor said he plans to address the states declining population issue and attract more workers to the state by creating jobs in these data centers  an initiative that he also believes will be beneficial in decreasing the rates West Virginians pay for power, which studies show are the highest in the nation.

We need more people to come so that spreads it out, thats first and foremost. Second, thats more customers for the power companies and that should lead to lower prices overall, said the Governor.

Morrisey added that he looks at every bill related to manufacturing to make sure that customers in West Virginia are not the ones who are left paying the price for the states investments.

Earlier this year, a study on water quality violations found that Wyoming Countys public water utility had the highest number of violations in a single water system in the entire country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mercer County was just behind Wyoming County on the list  with the third most water quality violations in the country.

Governor Morrisey was asked about why the state legislature did not address the issue of unsafe drinking water in the southern part of the state during the recent legislative session.

I think its important that we always continue to have resources for water infrastructure, said Morrisey. I know some of the money got deviated in the past administrations for other purposes. So I think there are other opportunities that will be coming up. We want to make sure we are addressing the needs of the citizens so I am definitely looking at that.

The Governor added that the budget was extremely tight this year because his administration inherited what he called a financial mess from his predecessor Jim Justice. However Morrisey did not rule out addressing the water quality concerns in the future.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 WVNS.
In Book 21 of The Odyssey, Ulysses is shown to be the only one capable of stringing and drawing his old bow to emerge victorious in the test that spectacularly reveals his identity to the suitors of his wife and kingdom, whom he later massacres. That moment of reunion with the formidable weapon is one of Homers finest moments (and the poet had many): So did Odysseus string the great bow, with effortless ease. Shifting the grip to his right hand he tested the string. With a pluck: it twanged, shrill, like a twittering swallow. The scene is simultaneously moving and foundational in The Return, the extraordinary film by Uberto Pasolini that recreates the final section The Odyssey, starring Ralph Fiennes as a broken Ulysses covered in physical and emotional scars, his eyes still red with the blood of Troy, who nevertheless regains his integrity and power with the bow in his hands.

In the scene, Ulysses is still hiding his true identity. Upon hefting the weapon, the hero remarks, ironically, that its not every day one has the chance to try Ulyssess bow. Fiennes (Ipswich, United Kingdom, 62 years old) offers a small smile marked with Homeric ferocity upon being asked, archer to archer, how it felt to take up Ulyssess bow in his hands, even if it obviously wasnt the real weapon.

Its a good question. To me, the bow is a key point, he says. Here we have a man who comes from war, physically and psychologically wounded, doubting his identity and on a journey in pursuit of a goal. The bow is a very powerful symbol. It is Ulyssess gift from his youth, representing something very pure, the chance for an accurate shot, of hitting the target, opportunity. There is something incredibly definitive about the bow. Ulyssess lost and broken personality is restored when he picks up his bow. As he draws it and fires a perfect shot, he gains back his composure, aligns himself internally. He puts himself back together. Ulysses has buried so many people you see that in the scene in which he visits his fathers grave. He was lost, and drawing the bow means reclaiming himself as a human being with a purpose and destiny.

Last Thursday night, Fiennes presented The Return at the Barcelona-Sant Jordi International Film Festival in a gala at Cines Verdi, where he received the festivals Honorary Award (and walked the red carpet to cheers of Ralph! Ralph!, a heartfelt Pope Ralph! and a festive after the blackout, here comes Voldemort!) Fiennes fondly remembers the bow in the film, a long, spectacular, magnificent horn bow.

The actor, who was interviewed the following Friday at noon in a Barcelona hotel alongside Pasolini (Rome, 68 years old), conjures the films impressive moment in which Ulysses, letting his cloak fall, draws his bow, shoots, passes the test, and then slings a quiver full of deadly arrows over his shoulder and takes aim at the suitors (Terror gripped them all, blanched their faces white, notes Homer). I did a lot of archery training. They were actually afraid during shooting, and Im not surprised, he laughs. In the majority of scenes you cant see that drama, everything is done in bits and pieces, but in this one, there was a lot of intensity and that moment was tremendous.

For The Return, in which Fiennes reunites with Juliette Binoche as Penelope after their turns in Wuthering Heights and The English Patient (in their latest film  pardon the pun  shes the patient one), the actor underwent special training in order to achieve a physique that is at once aging, ravaged, sinewy, and muscular. Its the body of a great warrior, hardened by a thousand battles. I went to the gym, but above all, my trainer starved me, says Fiennes (Ralph Fitness?). He says the result was that the audience not only sees Ulyssess desperation, exhaustion, and defeat in his physical form, but especially in his eyes, where his soul is revealed. The actor points out that he and the director agreed that Ulysses should have an eloquent physical presence. It was very important that his exterior reflect his interior, the harshness of his experiences, the violence, the torment, the heartbreak. Both thought that their Ulysses, who has shed so much blood and seen so much death, expresses what we might today call post-traumatic stress disorder, the Troy edition.

Ralph Fiennes with Angela Molina in Barcelona on Friday. Gianluca Battista

Pasolini  who despite bearing no relation to fellow Italian director Pier Paolo, but rather, Luchino Visconti, delivers a very Pier Paolo Pasolini-esque film, insomuch as its characters and textures  emphasizes what a privilege it was to work with veteran performers like Fiennes, Binoche and Angela Molina. (The latter plays a splendid Eurycleia, who shines in the sequence in which she recognizes Ulysses by the scar left on his knee by a wild boar during a hunt in Mount Parnassus.)

This is my fourth film and when I thought about the ones that they have made, I realized that I had to let them loose. Pasolini is clear on his reasons for returning to The Odyssey: Why not? It influences us, it still speaks to us, it challenges us. He says there is room for everyone in the epic, a clear reference to the film being made by Christopher Nolan with Matt Damon as the protagonist. But, he warns, no one should expect to see Polyphemus in his version (although at one point Fienness Ulysses introduces himself winkingly as nobody), or the sirens. Theres none of that. This isnt the 1954 version with Kirk Douglas and Silvana Mangano, so if anyone wants to ask for their money back, they can have it, he jokes. The Return focuses on the final part of The Odyssey, beginning with Ulyssess homecoming to Ithaca. Instead of the wooden horse (to which there is a fleeting reference in a fireside conversation) and the conquering of Troy, we have Fiennes wonderful, expressive blue eyes and their moving look of recognition upon seeing the destroyed hulk of the Argos.

Its a movie, according to its director, that is both essential and sobering, that breathes Mediterranean culture, having been filmed in Corfu and the Peloponnese, with its acropolis of Ithaca played by the disconcertingly medieval Castle of Chlemoutsi. The Odyssey has meant a lot to me ever since I was young, when adventure and travel were what interested me the most, says Pasolini. But thats only part of the work, and as I get older, it interests me more as the story of a family trying to rebuild itself after 20 years of war. The second part of The Odyssey is more universal. We are all children, spouses, fathers, and mothers. And thats where my attempt to converse with Homer, to dialogue with his work, comes in.

For his part, Fiennes says that hes always had an interest in classical history and Greek mythology  his mother read him The Odyssey when he was a boy  and that he liked that the script of The Return wasnt about the creation of a classical hero but rather a psychologically exhausted man, a tired warrior in an Odyssey with no gods nor monsters.

Uberto Pasolini, Angela Molina and Ralph Fiennes pose at the presentation of The Return. Lorena Sopena (Europa Press)

Fiennes, though remarkably attractive, seems too normal to carry within him so many unforgettable characters, from the sinister Nazi commander Amon Goth in Schindlers List; the romantic Count Almasy in The English Patient; Cardinal Lawrence in Conclave; not to mention M in the James Bond series, Onegin, Coriolanus, Hamlet, Macbeth  even Lawrence of Arabia (in a 1992 television production that focuses on the British Army officers participation in the Paris Peace Conference), who himself translated The Odyssey. How does he co-exist with this crew? Does he carry them with him? When you create a character, you keep them inside you, and there is always something you can reach to in order to bring them back, something in your memory, your psyche, he says.

Does he have any special memories of the Almasy character? The actor thinks for a moment about everything that made up that film: the dunes, the airplane, Herodotus and the Hungarian nanny. I liked how antisocial he was, he says. Theres that scene where theyre driving through the desert and he says to Katharine, Kristin [Scott Thomas]s character, I once traveled with a guide who was taking me to Faya. He didnt speak for nine hours That was a good day, a not-too-subtle way of telling her to be quiet. He is a difficult man, full of love and desire, a man used to having control in his life and who has to face an unexpected passion. I love that character, yes. Does he prefer tormented personas? All human beings are complex, and brilliant ones also have their dark side. I want to understand them all.

Of Oscar nominations, he says they are a wonderful thing, but that they leave you very exposed. What does he think of the conclave? Will life imitate art? Well, its all been very surprising. I will certainly follow the conclave in a way that I did not expect before making the film. I would not have believed that I would find it so interesting. With the film, I have discovered how complex and secretive the world of the Vatican is.

Shakespeare or Homer? Fiennes passes the question to Pasolini. Why not both? Aside from the fact that Shakespeare got so much out of the Greek classics and Homer, says the director. Shakespeare recognized up to what point the Greeks understood human nature and the construction of drama. We Mediterraneans, unfortunately, cannot enjoy Shakespeare as those do who are native English speakers, but even so, he is so gratifying.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
May 6SUPERIOR  Tourism is a $25 billion industry in Wisconsin, according to the most recent figures available.

To kick off National Travel and Tourism Week, Gov. Tony Evers and Wisconsin Tourism Secretary Anne Sayers headed north Monday, May 5, for stops at the Wisconsin Logging Museum in Eau Claire and a hike to Wisconsin's tallest waterfall in Pattison State Park.

Manitou Falls is a few feet shorter than Niagara Falls, Gervase Thompson, property supervisor for Pattison and Amnicon Falls state parks, told the guests.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"It's just amazing to see these attractions and know that for us, it's in our backyard," Thompson said.

Thompson shared the park's history: Lumber and mining baron Martin Pattison's love of the outdoors prompted him to secretly acquire 660 acres of land that encompassed the Little Manitou Falls and Big Manitou Falls on the Black River. In 1920, Pattison donated the property to the state, making Pattison State Park the state's sixth park.

But it was the Civilian Conservation Corps camp near the Little Manitou Falls that helped shape the 1,400-acre state park named for its benefactor in the 1930s.

Today, the lodge and bathhouse, built with stone cut by hand from a local quarry and ax-hewn beams, remain prominent features of Pattison State Park.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We have period furniture from those days ... still being used today," Thompson said.

"What a beautiful place," Evers said, following a hike to the south and north sides of the sandstone and basalt gorge where the Black River cascades down the 165-foot-high waterfall.

Evers said his goal was to highlight Wisconsin's booming tourism economy and investments included in his 2025-2027 executive budget to continue to lift the industry vital to Wisconsin.

The governor's budget proposal includes:

* Nearly $34 million for the Department of Tourism to promote Wisconsin as a premier business, cultural and recreational destination.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

* $10 million in incentives to bring film and television productions and other creative endeavors to Wisconsin.

* $5.9 million to the Wisconsin Arts Board to support nonprofit arts organizations.

* $1 million in new grants for rural creative economies.

* More than $500,000 and several staff positions to make the Wisconsin Office of Outdoor Recreation permanent.

"Outdoor recreation alone is a $11.2 billion industry in Wisconsin," Sayers said. "That's permanent and growing, and we want to make sure that the office that supports it is also permanent."

Thompson said Pattison State Park sees between 150,000 and 180,000 visitors each year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Places like Pattison State Park help put things in perspective, Evers said.

"Tourism is really important to the state of Wisconsin, and outdoor recreation provides a lot of money for our state," Evers said. "And people love to come to Wisconsin. People in Wisconsin love coming to places like this, so we're here enjoying it."
FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56)  On Tuesday afternoon in the Capitol rotunda, Gov. Andy Beshear, state leaders, and other community members celebrated new statistics relating to the number of overdose deaths in the Commonwealth.

After years of challenges and struggle, we are seeing what real hope looks like in the Commonwealths fight against the scourge of addiction, the governor said.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That hope comes from newly released data in Team Kentuckys 2024 Drug Overdose Fatality Report.

It found that last year, the Commonwealth saw a 30.2% decrease in overdose deaths compared to previous years.

That is a stark difference from the 9.8% decrease reported in 2023.

It is a hard-fought miracle that we are here to celebrate the third year in a row that overdose deaths have declined in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, which means more Kentuckians have achieved recovery and more of our families have been saved, Beshear said.

LATEST KENTUCKY LISTS AND RANKINGS:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But Beshear said there is still a lot of work to do.

That is why he laid out his plan to keep the momentum going and signed the Drug Interdiction and Counter-Drug Activities Plan for the 2026 fiscal year.

He said the goal is to help destroy and remove illicit drugs from communities.

Those who overcame the battle of drug addiction said the support from the state to attack this issue head-on is reassuring. Some, like Brandon Fitch, are even part of the solution.

I am a brand-new member of the Cabinet of Health and Family Services. But I want to say the most important thing for me to say today is my name is Brandon, and I am a person in long-term recovery, Fitch said, addressing the crowd in the Rotunda.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He is a program administrator for recovery services with the Kentucky Department for Behavioral Health, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities.

Read more of the latest health and wellness news

Even though 170,000 doses of Narcan were distributed throughout the Commonwealth last year, and 21 Kentucky counties are now certified recovery-ready communities, those who are part of the fight say one of the most important steps is to remove the stigma around asking for help.

Odell Hager would know well. He told FOX 56 that he celebrated his fourth year of sobriety on April 17. We got a disease, and once everybody can start looking at it that way, just like they see cancer and diabetes, then its going to erase that stigma and try to eliminate it a bit more to get people the help that they need and deserve.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hager is now the community outreach director at Still Waters Counseling & Recovery Resources.

If you are someone struggling with addiction or know someone who is struggling with addiction, call the KY HELP Call Center at 833-859-4357 to get connected to treatment.

Latest central Kentucky weather forecast

You can find more information about treatment programs across Kentucky by clicking 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 56 News.
A newly signed bill in Maine aims to offer its citizens protection against the looming threat of severe weather events in the state.

On April 22, 2025, Maine senators unanimously passed LD 1, or "An Act to Increase Storm Preparedness for Maine's Communities, Homes and Infrastructure."

The bill comes in the wake of over $90 million in recent winter storm damage to public infrastructure across Maine. Shortly after the bill passed in the Senate, Maine governor Janet Mills signed it into law.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bill will provide $15 million in funding to establish the Home Resiliency Program, which will allow homeowners to apply for grants of up to $15,000 to make investments in their homes to "safeguard" them against storms.

During the bill signing ceremony, governor Mills highlighted its importance for the people of Maine.

"I'm proud to sign this bill into law, a bill that will allow Maine communities, homeowners, businesses, emergency response leaders and others to prepare for the extreme weather events of the future and make Maine a safe place to live in the process," Mills said.

Governor Mills formed the Infrastructure Rebuilding and Resilience Commission in May 2024 to evaluate the state's response to winter storms. This included identifying key areas for investment and policy changes and developing a long-term infrastructure plan.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pat Keliher, commissioner of the Maine Department of Marine Resources, noted the significance of the newly formed commission. "The storms of this past winter have provided a wake-up call for Maine," Keliher said in a statement. "It is critical that we have a plan to confront the harsh reality of a changing climate."

According to a report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, an increase in pollution has had a clear influence on the rise of severe weather events. As the global temperature continues to increase, communities may face more frequent and stronger heat waves, heavy downpours, and severe storms.

Cathy Breen, director of government affairs for Maine Conservation Voters, applauded the signing of LD 1 into law.

"There is no corner of Maine safe from the severe weather we've seen in recent years and the serious conditions predicted for the future," Breen wrote in a statement.

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.
Gov. Wes Moore signed more than 190 bills into law during a May 6 ceremony at the State House. (Photo by Bryan P. Sears/Maryland Matters)

Gov. Wes Moore (D) approved what he called a comprehensive and bipartisan bill package Tuesday updating portions of Maryland law to ensure veterans have full access to state benefits theyre entitled to in health, education, transportation and other areas.

I really have had the pleasure of working very closely with  both Democrats and Republicans in finding ways to be able to support Marylands veterans, and support Maryland veterans families, Moore said at a bill signing ceremony in the State House.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The more than two dozen House and Senate veterans bills were just a fraction of the 193 bills total signed into law Tuesday in the Governors Reception Room. The veterans bill package was largely spearheaded by Sen. Bryan Simonaire (R-Anne Arundel), who previously said that inconsistencies in definitions in the law had led to unequal access to benefits and resources for veterans.

As a veteran myself, I am truly moved by Sen. Simonaires tireless leadership, said Moore, who served in the U.S. Army.

Sen. Bryan Simonaire (R-Anne Arundel) was the lead Senate sponsor of a slate of bills intended to help veterans in Maryland. (Photo by Bryan P. Sears/Maryland Matters.)

The governor also signed a series of education-focused bills, including the Excellence in Maryland Public Schools Act that adjusts the states education reform plan known as the Blueprint for Marylands Future. The bill keeps much of the original plans in the Blueprint intact, but trims some of the funding to help keep the state afloat in a constrained fiscal year.

Senate President Bill Ferguson (D-Baltimore City) highlighted one education bill that will let schools integrate restorative practices when students face disciplinary actions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the bills fiscal note, restorative approaches help students practice conflict resolution, social emotional learning, and other ways for students to grow from, and take accountability for, problem behavior.

We know that how kids show up determines what their outcomes will be, Ferguson said at the bill signing of Senate Bill 68. And we also know that we have tools that we can invest in to make sure that each child has the support and wrap around strategies that will make them as successful as possible.

Ferguson said the legislation will give students and schools the chance to look at conflict as an opportunity to improve, not just as a simple disciplinary action.

Moore also signed an ethics bill sponsored by Environment and Transportation Committee Chair Marc Korman (D-Montgomery) that will require this, and future, governors to divest themselves of any conflicts of interest, or put their interests into a blind trust.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

People deserve a governor who makes decisions in the best interests of the people and not in the best interest of themselves, Moore said.

In 2024, former Gov. Larry Hogan (R) came under fire after Time magazine reported that his real estate clients received lucrative state contracts while he served as governor. Hogan argued that he had held those assets in a trust agreement approved by the State Ethics Commission, but House Bill 239 would require the governor to place assets in, specifically, a blind trust if they decided not to divest from their conflicts of interest while in office.

Moore did not name names, but said that nobody should be able to use the office of the governor as a get-rich-quick scheme for them or their families.

Gone are the days when a Maryland governor can make millions of dollars in office because they didnt view their time in public services as a reason to stop their private profits, Moore said. Gone are the days when a Maryland governor has a vote on the Board of Public Works and has a personal stake in how contracts are actually being awarded.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Due to the number of bills signed, most of the legislation did not get a shoutout at the bill signing Tuesday. Such is the case for several election law related bills like House Bill 426, which will boost post-election audits to ensure that Maryland elections are fair and accurate.

Advocates disappointed in paid family leave delay

One bill that did not get mention at the bill signing was legislation to push off the implementation of statewide paid family leave  a program that has already faced several delays since it was signed into law in 2022.

House Bill 102 was quietly signed into law Tuesday, delaying benefits from the Family and Medical Leave Insurance program (FAMLI) until 2028.

The program was supposed to begin in July, but the Moore administration proposed delaying implementation of the program amid a tight budget year and rapid policy changes at the federal level.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Time to Care Coalition, an advocacy group that supports FAMLI, said it was disappointed by the governors decision to further delay the program.

Lifes joys and tragedies dont wait  welcoming a new child, preparing for deployment, taking care of a loved one with disabilities, or helping ease the pain of a parent at the end of life, the coalition said in a written statement.

Implementing this program is critical to giving workers and their families the ability to care for themselves and their loved ones, the statement said. Now Marylanders will have to wait until 2028 to receive benefits.
The Grain Belt Express announced $1.7 billion in contractor awards on Wednesday to build a transmission line through Kansas, Missouri, Illinois and Indiana. (Robert Zullo/States Newsroom)

TOPEKA  The Grain Belt Express, an 800-mile electric transmission line to be built through Kansas, Missouri, Illinois and Indiana, announced $1.7 billion in contractor awards on Wednesday.

The awards were made to Quanta Services of Houston and Kiewit Energy Group Inc. of Omaha. Grain Belt Express is an Invenergy project expected to add 5,000 megawatts of U.S. energy delivery capacity, according to an Invenergy press release. Its also expected to provide $52 billion in energy cost savings to Americans over 15 years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Quanta Services and Kiewit have strong local presences and expect to source raw materials locally in Kansas and Missouri when possible, including concrete, aggregate, civil materials, conduit, and piping, the press release said. Main construction, engineering, and procurement offices for Grain Belt Express Phase 1 will be based out of Overland Park and Lenexa, Kansas.

Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson said the Grain Belt Express is a multimillion dollar investment that will pay off for Kansans.

The selection of contractors and suppliers with a local presence is just one of the many sizable economic benefits Grain Belt Express brings, in addition to greater energy cost savings and reliability, he said.

In April, the Kansas Corporation Commission modified the route for one of two transmission lines that will connect wind and solar farms to the Grain Belt Express that was originally planned to run for 46 miles through parts of Ford, Meade and Gray counties.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The new route reduces the length of the line by 12 miles and avoids 24 parcels of land resulting in fewer landowners being impacted, a KCC press release said. The 16-mile Bucklin-Dodge City Line remains unchanged.

A map showing the new route of the Meade-Dodge City line can be viewed here.

The Invenergy press release said 1,500 agreements have been executed with landowners for easement rights. More than $105 million is part of executed easement agreements, including $19 million already paid to landowners and an additional $86 million due at construction, the company said. More than 95% of Grain Belt Express Phase 1 main line land acquisition is complete.

Kansans working to balance household budgets and run businesses want energy thats affordable and reliable, and thats what we are getting with Grain Belt Express, all without ratepayers being forced to pay for it, said Kansas House Speaker Dan Hawkins.
PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD)  Theres a new face on the Horseshoe as Alex Carmona was officially sworn in as 2nd District Peoria City Councilmember during Tuesdays meeting, which was more of a swearing-in ceremony than a typical council meeting.

He takes over for Chuck Grayeb, whos been a mainstay in Peoria politics with 24 years of city council service under his belt.

Grayeb reflected on his time on the city council, from sitting next to now State Sen. Dave Koehler to how the city has grown over the past 30 years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

From the city becoming a medical destination to growing in size, he feels that the city is in a good place.

He also stated that the citys best days are ahead, and had one last message to his fellow council members.

I dont want to hear any comments like I didnt sign up for this because my answer is yes, you did, he said.

As for Carmona, his comments were brief, but he reflected on his family moving to Peoria from Colorado five years ago and how much he loves the city.

I want everybody to know that Im going to treat you fairly, with respect, and Im going to do whatever I can to help you out and be your liaison with the city, he said.

Council members salute Grayeb

Every other council member and Mayor Rita Ali spoke warmly of Grayeb, who was often referred to as the Dean of the city council due to him being the former Dean of students at Manual High School in the 1980s.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He was the Dean for at-large councilmember Bernice Gordon-Young when she went to Manual, who commended him for his passion in serving the city of Peoria.

4th District Councilman Andre Allen said Grayeb leaves behind a wealth of institutional knowledge with him, while Mayor Rita Ali called Grayeb an institution.

3rd District Councilman Tim Riggenbach joked, riffing on Ali calling him an institution by saying he should be institutionalized. After the laughter subsided, Riggenbach said hell miss the collaboration he had with Grayeb and that hell leave a void on the Horseshoe.

5th District Councilman Denis Cyr also joked, noting Grayebs vocabulary by saying hell have to leave his dictionary at home now when he attends council meetings.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

1st District Councilmember Denise Jackson commended Grayeb for the number of hats he wore throughout his time on city council.

Ali added that she wanted to publicly state the amount of shared values the two have, and that while they may have different ways of going about things, they each want the same outcome.

Outgoing City Treasurer Chet Tomczyk was also thanked for his nine months of service. New treasurer Jim Montelongo and Township Supervisor LaTrina Leary were also sworn in.

Township Assessor Andrew Couri will be sworn in when his term begins Jan. 2026.

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.
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  A new initiative to help combat hunger in our area, without having to leave the comfort of your home, is about to take over the town.

The Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank is asking you to keep watch on your mailbox, as letter carriers are providing special paper bags with instructions on how to stamp out hunger.

Michael Manning with the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank said the summer months are an especially important time for his industry since kids are out of school and not receiving their free or reduced lunch.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The whole point is to raise awareness as we approach Mothers Day and start summer, Manning mentioned. This is the last major food drive in the area. We want to focus on non-perishable foods, so there will be no issues with what letter carriers will be picking up. We especially need premium things like canned meat, canned protein, peanut butter, premium products we dont get a lot of, even canned veggies and canned fruit.



Manning said this is part of a nationwide drive, and his food bank is also partnering with the Boy Scouts to provide for the capitol region. Theyll help pick up the donations and bring them to the food bank.



People in need can receive food donations at local pantries that partner with the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank, like Catholic Charities and Hope Ministries. You can also find an interactive map on the food banks website to find a pantry closest to you by clicking find help and find food.

Latest 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 Louisiana First News.
By Karolina Tagaris and Georgi Slavov

ATHENS/SOFIA (Reuters) -After months of negotiations, Bulgaria and Greece have signed a five-year water deal, the Bulgarian foreign ministry confirmed on Wednesday, a decision that prompted relief among Greek farmers anxious about their crops.

The deal replaces a 60-year agreement that expired last July, underscoring just how precarious water resources have become in the Mediterranean region due to climate change.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The impasse over a deal had alarmed farmers in the northern Greek region of Evros, who staged tractor blockades in January demanding a solution. It has proven controversial in Bulgaria, where opposition parties have accused the government of giving away a valuable resource for free.

Under a joint declaration signed by the two neighbours' foreign ministers on May 2, Bulgaria will release water from the River Arda flowing from its mountains into 50,000 acres (20,000 hectares) of the Evros plain in northern Greece.

The amount will be decided annually after assessing Bulgaria's own needs, the Bulgarian foreign ministry told Reuters.

"The two sides stress the importance of water resources... as well as the need to protect these resources in view of the risks posed by climate change," the ministry said, without providing any further details.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Greek farmers had hoped for a longer-term deal but welcomed the new agreement.

"At the very last minute, there was a solution," said Dimitris Drakoudis, head of a local farmers' association.

"We were worried because the irrigation season has started," he said, adding that farmers were still waiting for more details on the terms of the deal.

The expired deal was part of World War Two reparations agreement signed in 1964 and had obliged Bulgaria to release 186 million cubic metres of water every year from May to September, from hydroelectric dams to Evros.

Greece has no functioning reservoirs in the area to retain water and is required to upgrade or build necessary water storage facilities under the new agreement, Bulgaria said.

(Reporting by Karolina Tagaris and Georgi SlavovEditing by Gareth Jones)
ATHENS, Greece (AP)  Greece and Egypt reaffirmed their commitment Wednesday to a proposed undersea electricity interconnection designed to transport renewable energy from North Africa to Europe.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi renewed the pledge during talks in Athens, following the signing of cooperation agreements across multiple sectors.

The planned 3,000-megawatt capacity cable will stretch nearly 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) across the eastern Mediterranean and has secured backing from the European Union, making it eligible for significant EU funding.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This will allow both Greece and Europe to import low-cost energy  primarily wind energy, which you are able to produce very competitively  and export it to Europe, Mitsotakis said during joint statements.

The project, estimated to cost around 4 billion euros ($4.5 billion), is expected to become operational within five years, under an ambitious timeline set by both governments. It aims to transmit solar and wind-generated power developed specifically for the project in Egypt, with private sector involvement led by Greeces Copelouzos Group.

El-Sissi highlighted the projects strategic importance. Its not just a bilateral matter  its a strategic regional project, as it creates a direct link that will extend to Europe via Greece, he said. We count on the European Unions support for this major initiative.

The EU has expressed strong interest in expanding energy partnerships with non-member countries to diversify its energy sources and reduce its historic dependence on Russian energy following Russias invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mitsotakis and el-Sissi also discussed regional security, migration challenges, and ways to deepen Egypts relationship with the European Union.

Greece is a steadfast ally of Egypt, including on matters concerning your countrys relationship with the European Union, Mitsotakis said, underlining Athens role in fostering closer EU-Egypt ties.

The talks in Athens concluded with agreements to explore additional energy cooperation, facilitate expanded seasonal employment of Egyptian workers in Greece, and enhance collaboration across financial, defense, and cultural sectors.
ATHENS -Greece and Egypt signed a "strategic partnership" deal on Wednesday as they seek to step up political coordination to help safeguard stability in the Eastern Mediterranean amid the ongoing war in Gaza.

"Our bilateral cooperation is based on political, economic, and cultural ties, which are deeply rooted in history and defined by our strong commitment to the values of peace and the full respect of international law," Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said in a joint statement.

The two officials met during the first meeting of the Supreme Cooperation Council, a body they agreed to set up more than a year ago to improve ties.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The two leaders reaffirmed their joint stance over the need to respect international law to promote peace in Gaza.

"The first priority is for hostilities to stop and restore the flow of humanitarian aid to civilians," Mitsotakis said in joint statements with Sisi.

He said Greece supported an Arab-backed plan for the reconstruction of Gaza once a ceasefire was achieved.

Migration also topped the agenda of bilateral talks as European governments have long been worried about the risk of instability in Egypt, a country of 106 million people where economic adversity has pushed increasing numbers to migrate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Egypt largely shut off irregular migration from its north coast in 2016, but the Greek islands of Crete and Gavdos have seen a steep rise in migrant arrivals, mostly from Afghanistan and Egypt.

The European Union last year announced a 7.4 billion euro ($8.40 billion) funding package and an upgraded relationship with Egypt, in part of a push to stem migrant flows from Egypt to Europe.

Last month, the EU's executive arm included Egypt, where human rights have come under scrutiny, on a list of "safe countries" where failed asylum seekers could be returned.

($1 = 0.8811 euros)

(Reporting by Angeliki Koutantou and Tala Ramadan in Dubai; Editing by Sharon Singleton)
Forget about Tim Cook, Satya Nadella, Sundar Pichai or Jamie Dimon.... The highest paid CEO of a U.S. listed company in 2024, according to available data, is an unknown executive of a company largely unheard of by the general public, although it enjoys a great reputation in the sector. He is Jim Anderson, the brand-new CEO of the optical materials and semiconductor firm Coherent, which is not even a member of the Standard & Poors 500 index, the stock market indicator that groups the 500 largest U.S. companies. His high salary was also a bit of an accident.

The company is headquartered in Saxonburg, Pennsylvania, a small town of about 1,500 people in Butler County, where Donald Trump suffered an assassination attempt last year. A few weeks before that incident, the company announced the signing of Jim Anderson as its new CEO in a press release on June 3, 2024. But the release did not make its way into any of the major media outlets.

Coherent closes its fiscal year in June, so Anderson was the head of the company for less than a month in that fiscal year. However, his annual compensation report reflects an astronomical payout.

His 2024 prorated cash salary was $81,538, but he also received a signing bonus of $500,000 in cash and a stock incentive package valued at $100.9 million. In the compensation report, the company complains that the package was designed to make up for what Anderson lost upon leaving semiconductor firm Lattice and that its original value was much lower, but that as the companys stock price skyrocketed with the signing, the stock awards grew in value.

Ironically, the high value of the incentive award noted below was due in large part to the markets favorable response to the news of Mr. Andersons appointment, the company said.

On the list of the highest paid CEOs in 2024, Anderson is followed by Starbucks Brian Niccol, at $95.8 million. Next come the CEOs of GE Aerospace, Paramount, Blackstone, Microsoft and Apple. The list does not include the individuals who for now is, at $139 million, the highest paid executive in the United States in 2024, Tesla CFO Vaibhav Taneja, because he is not the companys CEO.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
The father of Krysta Tsukahara, one of three college students who died in a Cybertruck crash in California in November, filed a lawsuit against the driver's family to access the vehicle and better understand what caused the tragic accident.

What happened?

According to Bloomberg, the driver and two passengers, including Krysta, were killed when the truck ran into a tree on a neighborhood street and caught fire. Carl Tsukahara, Krysta's father, said he's trying to find out more information about the crash and what led to it.

In an interview with the news outlet, Tsukahara said he wondered why the driver was behind the wheel, considering a toxicology report showed high levels of alcohol and drugs in his system.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The wrongful death suit filed in Alameda County Superior Court was brought against the driver's family and doesn't list Tesla as a defendant. Tsukahara's lawyer, Roger Dreyer of Dreyer Babich Buccola Wood Campora, said he is waiting for permission to access the vehicle to obtain data from Tesla to investigate what happened.

The lawsuit includes unnamed "Doe" defendants, which gives the Tsukahara family the option to add Tesla if the investigation shows the company was partially responsible for the crash.

"Defendants negligently entrusted, managed, maintained, drove, operated, repaired, manufactured and designed the subject vehicle so as to cause the collision and the resulting injuries and damages to plaintiffs," according to the complaint, per Bloomberg.

An autopsy revealed Krysta's death wasn't caused by injuries from the crash. It showed she died of asphyxiation when she couldn't open the Cybertruck doors and wasn't able to escape through a broken window before the fire overwhelmed the vehicle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A witness who attempted to rescue Krysta and the others told police: "Krysta tried to come up, sticking her head from the back. I grabbed her arm to try to pull her towards me but she retreated because of the fire." They were able to save one passenger before the flames engulfed the vehicle, killing the driver and another passenger.

"It still haunts us every day, and it will for the rest of our life," Carl Tsukahara told Bloomberg. "She died a horrible death and suffered."

Why is the Cybertruck crash concerning?

This isn't the first report of a Cybertruck catching fire after a crash. Last year, a Cybertruck driver died when the vehicle slammed into a concrete culvert and erupted into flames in the Houston area, per KHOU. In Harlingen, Texas, a Cybertruck caught fire after hitting a hydrant, but the driver was reportedly unharmed, according to Road and Track.

While the Cybertruck earned a five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the vehicle has been recalled eight times since its launch in 2023 because of safety issues, including an exterior panel that could detach while the vehicle was being driven and an accelerator pedal that could become stuck.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

People have also criticized the vehicle for having nearly indestructible doors and windows. While this may seem like a positive thing, it can be dangerous if the Cybertruck catches fire and makes it difficult to rescue people.

The latest tragedy involving the Cybertruck could make people reluctant to support Tesla, especially amid the company's plummeting profits and stock prices as well as CEO Elon Musk's involvement in politics.

That said, electric vehicles help consumers save money on gas and maintenance, and they're much better for the environment than polluting gas-guzzlers. According to Teslarati, Tesla remains the most popular electric vehicle brand in the U.S., but there are other EV makers to choose from, including Nissan, Ford, and Hyundai.

What's being done to help?

Tesla announced that the Cybertruck will receive a high-tech upgrade that includes new tire sensors to improve performance and safety.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It's worth noting that Cybertrucks generally fare well in crashes because of their stainless steel body and low center of gravity. However, high-speed collisions, particularly those involving impact to the lithium-ion battery, can cause fires.

It's unknown exactly how fast the driver was going, but speed contributed to the severity of the crash.

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.
EDITORS NOTE: This is a guest editorial by Jim Shultz. Shultz is an occasional CNHI columnist and founder/executive director of the Democracy Center. He resides in Lockport, N.Y. Reach him at: jimshultzthewriter@gmail.com.

Republican members of Congress across the country have chosen, in the Trump era, to no longer participate in public town halls. This includes my congresswoman in western New York, U.S. Rep. Claudia Tenney.

My public letter to her is not only about her, but also the other cowardly Congress members.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dear Congresswoman Tenney:

Your face has been a presence recently at citizen town halls across your district. More than a thousand of your constituents have gathered in meeting halls to express their concerns about the chaos unleashed on America by President Trump.

It isnt actually your face. Its a life-size cutout in your absence. Thats because, since Trump took office, you have refused one request after another to meet with the people you supposedly represent.

We understand the reason why; its fear.

You are afraid to meet with veterans who want to know why you talk so much about being their champion and then stay silent while President Trump and Elon Musk take an axe to veterans services.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You say how much you support children, but are afraid to meet with parents and teachers who are concerned about cuts in education.

You wont meet with constituents concerned with cuts in health care or environmental protection. You are afraid to meet with anyone who wants to ask you hard questions.

Last week, you blamed local newspapers for reporting your absence. Your chief of staff scolded one paper, You are doing a disservice to your readers and giving local journalism a bad name.

The problem is not reporters doing their jobs. The problem is your refusal to do yours  to listen to the people you are supposed to represent.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Coward is not a word I use lightly. But when a congresswoman is unwilling to meet with her own constituents in public, that is not only cowardice, it is arrogance.

Here is another word I dont use lightly  concentration camp. I am the grandson of Jews who fled Europe. I understand quite well what that word means.

Last week, as Christians celebrated the peace teachings of Jesus Christ, you marked Holy Week with a taxpayer-funded junket to a concentration camp in El Salvador.

A prison is where governments confine people who have had their day in court, with rules about treatment. A concentration camp is where you throw people who you grab off the street (no legal process required) and leave stockpiled until they die. The only rule is brutality.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The concentration camp that you visited in El Salvador is the same hellhole where Trump is dumping hundreds of people he has labeled as foreign terrorists  no proof needed. One of them is a young father who was living in Maryland. The Trump administration admitted his deportation was an administrative error. The Supreme Court ordered his return. Even Joe Rogan said that shipping him there was wrong.

But you werent concerned about any of that on your visit. You just wanted to make sure you got your photo taken standing in front of cells of shirtless men with shaven heads, a handy political souvenir.

Here are a few other people who have been caught in Trumps new policy of disappearing off the street. A terrified young woman (a foreign student with a legal visa) was nabbed outside her apartment in Boston. Her sin was publishing a pro-Palestinian opinion article that Trump didnt like. In Florida last week, ICE grabbed a native-born U.S. citizen and tossed him in jail. They kept him there even as his frantic mother presented his U.S. birth certificate in court.

It is not hard to imagine why you dont want to answer any hard questions from your constituents about all that.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You are safely gerrymandered into a lopsided Republican district designed to hand you easy victories every two years. Your concern is not with representing us. What you really care about is how many times you can get on Fox News in a week and keeping President Trump happy.

If that means that veterans, farmers, children, and the elderly suffer cuts that make their lives harder, what do you care?

If innocent people are tossed into brutal foreign cells with no hearing, so what?

You have other things on your mind.

Last week, you boasted about a massive fundraising of more than a million dollars  most of it from wealthy corporations and special interest groups. That is who you really represent, Rep. Claudia Tenney, not us.

There is an expression, If you have something to say to me, say it to my face.

Your constituents have a good deal to say to your face right now, even if it has to be your cardboard cutout.
WASHINGTON (WJTV)  U.S. Representative Michael Guest (R-Miss.) spoke to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem about FEMA disaster relief in Mississippi.

Parts of the state were affected by a tornado outbreak in March, and many residents are still waiting on federal assistance.

Miss Covington County pushes for storm aid for neighbors

Governor Tate Reeves (R-Miss.) requested a Major Disaster Declaration from President Donald Trump for Individual Assistance and Public Assistance from the March 14-15 tornado outbreak.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This week, Guest told Noem, Our governor and MEMA quickly requested disaster assistance, but at this point the review of that process is still pending, and I understand that, that takes time, and I dont want to rush anything, but I would ask you, if you could make sure that you could do everything to expedite that request. It is impacting my local jurisdictions with debris cleanup. It is impacting people as they seek to recover, so I would just ask that you personally see if anything could be done to expedite that request.

Noem replied, Yes, I will certainly get back to you and follow up with that. Im not sure if that decision is still with us or at the White House, but I will  I will follow up with you. And I want to thank you for talking about the fact that youre sitting there waiting for the federal government to respond. President Trumps heart is with the American people and recognizes they dont deserve that.

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Daily 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 WJTV.
A devoted Donald Trump fan was thrown out of a Crunch Fitness in Madison, Wisconsin, after cops said he screamed and cursed at other members trying to work out, but the aggrieved member  who is now suing the chain  believes his banishment stems from the Trump hat he sometimes donned while there.

Michael Green filed a federal lawsuit against Fitness Ventures, LLC, a Crunch franchisee with locations in 27 U.S. states, claiming he was discriminated against for being a Trump supporter  not for causing a disturbance, as a police report obtained by The Independent shows.

I still don't understand exactly what happened, but I'm thinking someone at the gym had a perceived issue with me and decided to weaponize the police against me, Greens March 31 complaint states. I had been wearing a pro-Trump hat during prior gym visits but stopped due to the stares I would get from staff and members Perhaps it was some kind of retaliation for being a Trump supporter, even worse a [B]lack Trump supporter in Dane County.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Green, 42, believes Crunch violated the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by engaging in discriminatory practices against him. He is seeking $75,000 for his alleged troubles, writing in his self-filed complaint, $75,000 is enough that may provide a deterrent from similar behavior in the future.

Green claims his Trump merch got him thrown out of two gyms (Getty Images)

Two weeks before filing suit against Crunch, Green sued another Madison health club over similar allegations, again representing himself pro se, claiming he had been discriminated against for show[ing] my support of our president by wearing different types of Trump apparel such as hats, book bags, tee shirts, etc. He was also removed from that gym by police for allegedly harassing the manager, a Democrat, over her political leanings.

In a phone call on Wednesday, Green told The Independent that the hat in question at Crunch read: Trump 2024.

I had stopped wearing it, but they had already pegged me as a Trump guy, Green said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Over the course of 40 minutes, Green, who said he voted for Trump in 2024, railed against DEI initiatives, the transgender community, and the liberals he insisted were responsible for pushing him into the presidents arms.

Im not a cult follower, its just living in that area, them telling me that hes bad that made me say, OK, well, Im gonna vote for him then, Green said.

Fitness Ventures, LLC executives did not respond to requests for comment.

Two weeks before he sued Crunch, Michael Green sued another local gym over a near-identical allegation (Getty Images)

Greens beef stems from an encounter at Crunch on March 30, according to his complaint. While there, his complaint states, he was approached by a staff member and two Madison Police officers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The staff member said that I was being aggressive to gym members, Greens complaint goes on. I still have no clue what exactly is going on, the staff member was extremely vague. I was drenched in sweat so I asked If I could use the shower before I left, the staff member told me I could not so I went into the locker room to change clothes as quickly as I could.

Upon leaving the locker room, Green was confronted by 6-10 madison [sic] police officers, his complaint continues. I asked them what was going on, they explained they were called to make sure I left the premises. I left as instructed.

Once he was out of the building, Green realized he had forgotten some of his belongings at the gym, his complaint says. So, as cops were still on the scene, Green called Crunch and asked a staffer to give his things to the officers so he could get them back, according to the complaint.

But, it says, the police soon left, and the Crunch employee told Green to meet him at the gym entrance to pick up his stuff.

Green insisted that widespread anti-Trump sentiment pushed him to become a Trump supporter (AFP via Getty Images)

While walking towards the gym I flagged down a Madison Police officer and asked them If they could get my items instead of me approaching the gym, Greens complaint states. [T]he officer agreed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Green then called the gym to tell the staff member that police would be coming back instead of him, according to his complaint. During that call, Green complained about the vulgar, racist, stereotyping rap music Crunch plays, which, the complaint asserts, paints African-Americans in a fictional[,] terrible light.

The staffer followed up by denigrating Black people, to which Green responded with a homophobic slur, says the complaint.

Green sued the next day. To him, the banishment from Crunch was tied directly to his Trump headwear, Green said on Wednesday.

However, an incident report shared with The Independent by a Madison Police Department spokeswoman tells a different story. Officers were dispatched on March 30 to Crunch after an employee called the cops about a gym member  Green  who was allegedly causing a disturbance, and asked to have police standing by when staffers ejected him, according to the report.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Green reportedly had approached other gym members and screamed and cursed at them because he wanted to use their exercise equipment, the report states. It says these members asked the manager to have Green removed, but did not wish to press charges against him.

Although Green claims he was tossed out of Crunch over his support for Donald Trump, seen here campaigning in Green Bay, Wisconsin, police tell a different story (Getty Images)

According to the incident report, only two officers responded to the call, not the half-dozen or more mentioned in Greens complaint. They escorted Green to the locker room and stood outside as he gathered his belongings, the report explains. The officers instructed Green not to return to Crunch for the remainder of the day, after which Green was seen walking away toward a nearby mall, according to the report.

The case is closed on our end, the Madison police spokeswoman told The Independent.

Last month, a woman claimed she had been kicked out of an Indianapolis bar for wearing a MAGA hat; the bar said she had been harassing an employee. Last year, two women were removed from a British Airways flight after trading punches over a Trump hat one was wearing. Things have also gone the other way for people sporting Trump merch  in October, former Pittsburgh Steelers running back LeVeon Bell claimed to have gotten out of a speeding ticket thanks to a cop who spotted his MAGA hat and let him go.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In his complaint, Green declares Dane County, where Madison is located, to be extremely liberal, and derides its residents as biased against those on the right.

The anger I feel about this can only be overshadowed by an overall sense of sadness, Greens complaint concludes. I don't believe this to be a Crunch or Fitness Venture issue as it's more a Dane County issue.

Dane County is not named as a defendant in Greens suit.
National political correspondent Maggie Haberman is not sure if President Trump has an actual, specific outcome planned for the implementation of his tariffs on other countries.

Haberman, a CNN contributor, joined Anderson Cooper on Tuesday after Trump met with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney as the countries grapple with increased tensions due to Trumps tariffs.

Is it clear to you what kind of outcome hes looking for? Cooper asked.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No, Haberman replied. And Im not sure that its clear to him what kind of actual, specific outcome hes looking for, other than one where the U.S. can say were on top and somebody else is not.

Habermans remarks come after Trump shared that the United States doesnt really want cars from Canada and after he put a 25 percent tariff on Canadian goods.

At a certain point, it wont make economic sense for Canada to build those cars, Trump said in the Oval Office. We really dont want Canadian steel, and we dont want Canadian aluminum and various other things, because we want to be able to do it [ourselves].

Haberman noted that no matter what the outcome of tariff negotiations is with Canada, most of the United Statess other trading partners will see it as some kind of a framework of a deal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And Trump will say, We won. This is what I wanted, Haberman said. It wont be an actual trade deal.

Those take months and sometimes years to hammer out, she continued. He will take some kind of off-ramps, but I dont think he knows exactly what he wants to see, other than a headline that says success.

Trumps April 2 Liberation Day tariff announcement shocked global markets. The president then implemented a 90-day pause for reciprocal tariffs on every country, except for China, with the hope that countries will come to the negotiating table.

The administration has expressed confidence that deals will be made, and allies like India, South Korea, Japan and the European Union are negotiating with the U.S.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trumps meeting with Carney comes just after the Canadian election. Trumps tariff plan and comments about acquiring Canada largely fueled Carneys win, experts have said.

Their meeting was shadowed by Trumps tariffs against Canada. The president downplayed the idea that Canada could escape tariffs already in place and indicated negotiations would not result in traditional trade deals.

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.
NEW DELHI (Reuters) -India launched strikes on Pakistan and Pakistani Kashmir on Wednesday, an assault its neighbour called a "blatant act of war" as tension spirals between the nuclear-armed rivals after a deadly attack on tourists in Indian Kashmir.

WHAT IS OPERATION SINDOOR?

India said its Operation Sindoor struck nine Pakistani sites on Wednesday that provided "terrorist infrastructure" and from which attacks against it were orchestrated. Its military spokesperson said the sites were completely destroyed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sindoor, which refers to the red vermilion powder worn by married Hindu women, is an apparent reference to the widows left by the April 22 attack that killed 26 men, most of them Hindu.

Islamabad has said six Pakistani locations, from dams to hydropower projects, were targeted, with two dozen weapon impacts. Its military has vowed to respond to the Indian strikes.

WHAT HAPPENED AFTER INDIA'S ATTACK?

A Pakistan military spokesperson told Reuters it shot down five Indian aircraft while they were in Indian airspace, a claim as yet unconfirmed by India.

Four local government sources in Indian Kashmir told Reuters three fighter jets had crashed in separate areas of the Himalayan region during the night, with their pilots admitted to hospital.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The two armies exchanged intense shelling and firing at various points across their de-facto border in Kashmir.

WHAT ABOUT CASUALTIES?

Pakistan said the attack killed 26 civilians and wounded 46 wounded. India said seven civilians were killed and 35 injured in cross-border shelling by Pakistani troops in Kashmir.

WHAT IS THE IMPACT ON AIRSPACE?

India shut several airports and as a result, airlines Air India, Akasa Air, Indigo and Spicejet cancelled flights.

Qatar Airways temporarily suspended flights to Pakistan.

Thai Airways said it would reroute flights to destinations in Europe and South Asia.

Pakistan International Airlines said airborne flights had been diverted to Karachi, while those scheduled placed on hold.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

ARE CIVILIANS IMPACTED?

Pakistan's eastern province of Punjab declared a state of emergency, with hospitals and security forces on high alert.

Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistani Kashmir, lost power for a while after the explosions.

Schools in much of India's Jammu and Kashmir were shut on Wednesday.

(Reporting by Tanvi Mehta and Saad Sayeed; Editing by and Raju Gopalakrishnan and Clarence Fernandez)
CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP)  If you are a traveler who is not Real ID-compliant by Wednesday, youll still be able to fly, but youll just need another form of identification.

While travelers may still be able to fly, they should prepare for additional screenings at the airport. The Real ID Act has been delayed three times in the last 20 years, most recently due to the pandemic, according to the TSA. But now, the TSA said theyre no longer pushing it back and are enforcing those looking to pass through airport checkouts and federal buildings.

By the numbers: Massachusetts sees drop in families needing emergency housing

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Theyre basically an ID card that proves you are who you say you are, said Dan Velez, TSA Spokesperson for New England. And were trying to protect these federal facilities and aircraft as much as possible.

Passports and enhanced drivers licenses are also being accepted as valid forms of identification. But those without a compliant form of identification may face extra steps and be diverted to a different line.

Theyll be identified prior to getting to the travel document checker, and then they will have to go through additional screening, Velez said. So their security screening time will be a little bit longer than those who are Real ID-compliant, for sure.

Across Massachusetts, RMVs have been trying to meet the demand for Real ID-compliant drivers licenses or ID cards. Since the end of March, walk-ins have been made available, increasing the number of customers seeking Real IDs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As of Monday, only 58% of state residents are Real ID-compliant, which is close to their 60% goal. The Massachusetts RMV advises anyone without a Real ID not to panic, since they can still apply after the deadline.

If you have an active passport and you do have travel in May, you dont have to worry about upgrading your drivers license right now, said Colleen Ogilvie of the Registrar of Motor Vehicles in Massachusetts. You can do this transaction at your normal renewal cycle. Again, its a product well continue to offer.

The Massachusetts RMV is currently scheduled six weeks out until June 16. Many Massachusetts RMVs are also still accepting walk-ins until further notice.

Personnel at Westover Air Reserve Base are reminding visitors that they need to have compliant identification to access the base. You will be allowed to use alternatives, like a passport, an original Social Security card, or an original birth certificate.

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.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
A hard drive found at a disused factory bought by the prime suspect in the Madeleine McCann investigation contains evidence she is dead, it has been claimed.

German prosecutors believe Christian Brueckner killed the three-year-old after she vanished during a family holiday in Praia De Luz, Portugal, in 2007.

The drive was discovered in 2016 at a disused factory which Brueckner bought for 20,000 in 2008, according to The Sun.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigators also found an insurance document which proves the suspect was at a music festival where he is said to have confessed to killing Madeleine.

In 2017, Helge Busching told German authorities that Brueckner had made a comment about a missing girl at the festival in 2008 and that she did not scream.

Questions about the witnesss credibility always remained but this could strengthen his account of events with evidence Brueckner was at the festival.

Christian Brueckner, who is suspected of killing Madeleine McCann - JULIAN STRATENSCHULTE/POOL/AFP via Getty Images

Childrens clothes and toys were said to have been located at the abandoned property alongside masks, chemicals and guns.

German police also discovered six USB sticks and two memory cards in a wallet. The evidence was detected by a dog in 2016.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In one, the suspect described drugging a mother and daughter outside a nursery school, while another spoke of abusing a four-year-old girl.

Skype conversations with other paedophiles were also discovered, including one where he said he wanted to capture something small and use it for days.

Child abuse images of four and five-year-old girls were also said to have been found during the searches, and police unearthed more than 75 swimming costumes, alongside toys and small bikes.

A sat nav also showed Brueckner had been in the Algarve in the years after Madeleine disappeared.

The claims will air in full in a Channel 4 documentary on Wednesday night.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Representatives of Brueckner were contacted for comment.

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.
The story is well known in Rome, but it can serve to illustrate how the election of an African pope  which many would see as a step forward for the Church, a breath of fresh air, a definitive swipe at the Vaticans rot  could also lead to a great disappointment. It happened at the end of 2023. The Vatican Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith had just published the declaration Fiducia supplicans, which allowed the blessing of same-sex couples, a way of putting into practice Pope Francis remark on the plane back from Rio de Janeiro: Who am I to judge gay people? The African Church as a whole was incensed. Most particularly Cardinal Fridolin Besungu Ambongo, 65, a Capuchin friar and archbishop of Kinshasa, from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Ambongo, who is currently being considered as one of the candidates to become the new pope, drafted a seven-page letter of protest and, not content with that, went to Rome to complain in person to Pope Francis. He did so not in his own name, but as the leader of the African revolt against the Vaticans declaration. Cardinal Ambongo, who has a tough-guy image and is appreciated in Africa for his outspoken opposition to government corruption and the power of the warlords, flatly refused any concessions from the Church regarding homosexuality. He declared: The Church cannot promote a sexual deviation. He added: Homosexuality does not exist in Africa. That was it. Case closed.

Does this mean that the 17 African cardinals at the conclave will automatically add their votes to a conservative candidate? Fortunately, things are rarely that easy in the Vatican. On the one hand, the conservative sector is considering the possibility of playing this card, which has the disadvantage of the African episcopates extreme intransigence on moral issues, but, on the other hand, also its advantages.

A Black pope would be seen as a leap forward, a sign of openness, a show of audacity. Although, on closer inspection, the Vaticans doses of audacity were already spent in 2013 when it elected Jorge Mario Bergoglio, and nearly the majority now would prefer to let things return to normal. Among those who support this option are the African cardinals, and therefore it may be the case that they will vote for a candidate who, without being so conservative, suits their interests.

And this is where the Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who remains ahead in the polls and is well known to the African community because, as Pope Franciss Secretary of State, he opened the Church to Africa and Asia, would play his trump card. A pope who is neither right-wing nor left-wing, and an Italian pope. Here we find another twist to the story and yet another example of the Vaticans complexities. This openness by Bergoglio, a pope whom the right called a progressive and even a communist, is what could be opening the door to an African pope, and therefore a very conservative one.

Its 9 a.m. and Piazza Navona is shining in all its splendor, with hardly any tourists, portrait artists or street vendors. There are only a few young priests and nuns with backpacks on their shoulders heading to the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross, which belongs to Opus Dei. In a classroom on the first floor, Monsignor Fortunatus Nwachukwu, secretary of the Dicastery for the New Evangelization, explains the situation of the Church in Africa to a small group of journalists.

Nwachukwu is Nigerian, 65 years old, and has a resume worthy of an adventure novel. A Vatican diplomat, he was the first Chief of Protocol of African origin and a nuncio to several countries, including Daniel Ortegas Nicaragua. Listening to him  and heres the final twist  one could come to the conclusion that, perhaps because there had never been a conclave with so many countries represented, many of the cabals have been based on the candidates origins rather than their ideology.

There are a couple of quotes from Fortunatus Nwachukwu that give much food for thought. He speaks of missionaries, both men and women. They traveled at a time when traveling meant never returning, it meant dying. We dont value their sacrifice enough, and now we dont know what to do with the fruits of their sacrifices. Theres an explosion of faith in Africa.

There will be an African pope. Its just a matter of setting a date.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Kaja Sokola, the new accuser in Harvey Weinsteins New York trial, began her testimony Wednesday at the former Hollywood producers retrial in Manhattan.

The ex-model, who was an aspiring actor when she met Weinstein, is the second accuser to take the stand, following last weeks testimony from former TV production assistant Miriam Haley. Kaja Sokola told the courtroom about her life before meeting Weinstein, including her upbringing in Wroclaw, Poland.

More from Variety

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Earlier on Wednesday, Kaja Sokolas older sister, cardiologist Ewa Sokola, testified about a 2006 lunch meeting the two had with Weinstein at a Manhattan hotel. Ewa Sokola recalled that at one point, Kaja Sokola and Weinstein took an elevator upstairs together while she remained at the table, waiting for 30 minutes to an hour. Kaja Sokola eventually came back down alone, but instead of returning to the table, Kaja left the hotel with Ewa Sokola.

Ewa Sokola noted that her sister appeared to be under extreme tension after returning from her time alone with Weinstein, though the two continued their day as if it were a regular day. She added that she couldnt recall whether Kaja Sokola was holding anything, such as a script, and did not notice any torn clothing, including ripped stockings.

When asked by the defense during cross-examination whether Kaja Sokola had said anything negative about Weinstein before 2017, Ewa Sokola responded no. She was proud of knowing him, she told the courtroom.

Ewa Sokola also testified that her younger sister never told her about the alleged assault by Weinstein, and that she first learned of it from a magazine article published in 2022. I was shocked, she said of her reaction to discovering Kaja Sokolas accusations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In September of last year, Weinstein was indicted on an additional sex crimes charge after the then-unidentified Kaja Sokola accused Weinstein of performing oral sex on her in a Manhattan hotel on one occasion between April 29, 2006 and May 6, 2006. Kaja Sokola did not testify at Weinsteins 2020 trial and wasnt publicly identified until opening statements in late April.

Kaja Sokolas attorney, Lindsay Goldbrum, said in a statement on Wednesday, Today, Kaja Sokola took the stand to share her truth  standing not just as a survivor but as an accomplished psychotherapist and psychologist. Nearly two decades ago, Kaja was a teenager, vulnerable to the power and influence of Harvey Weinstein, a wealthy 54-year-old Hollywood mogul. As you will hear from Kaja, he made sure she understood his control over her future, telling her he had the power to make or break careers. Now, she faces him in open court, reclaiming her voice and her story.

Kaja Sokola previously filed a civil complaint in 2019 against Weinstein related to an incident in 2002, where she claimed that, when she was 16 years old, Weinstein bullied her into allowing him to fondle her and made her touch his penis. That allegation was first filed in 2018, when she was part of a class-action lawsuit and identified as Jane Doe. Although the class action plaintiffs agreed to settle their suit against Weinstein, Sokola said in a statement at the time that the terms were unjust.

Weinstein is charged with two counts of committing a criminal sexual act in the first degree and one count of third-degree rape, following accusations by Sokola, Haley and actor Jessica Mann.

Best of Variety

Sign up for Variety's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
WASHINGTON  Senator Josh Hawley sent a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi, urging the Justice Department to reconsider its defense of the Biden Administrations policy on the abortion pill, Mifepristone.

While the grounds for dismissal sought are mostly procedural in nature, I am troubled by the fact that the Justice Department has sided with the Biden administrations position, especially considering new data showing the harms of chemical abortion for women, Hawley wrote. I urge you to reconsider.

This comes after the Trump Administration announced this week they are asking a Trump appointed judge to throw out a lawsuit seeking to limit abortion access.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lawsuit was filed by three GOP-led states, seeking to cut off telehealth access to Mifepristone. The government argued that Missouri, Kansas and Idaho dont have the legal right, or standing, to sue.

The case is being considered by a district judge in Texas, who was nominated by Trump and once ruled in favor of halting approval for the drug.

President Trump told TIME magazine in December he would not restrict access to abortion medication.

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.
As you drive along Interstate 17, you may have noticed stalled traffic and sometimes hours-long backups near Black Canyon City before alleviating at Sunset Point.

The Arizona Department of Transportation is working to fix this traffic congestion by the end of the year, but in the meantime, driving northbound on I-17 will look a bit different.

Starting May 5, northbound traffic shifted into two newly constructed flex lanes that run adjacent to the two existing southbound lanes. The department said the detour was necessary for several weeks as work continued on the main northbound lanes between Coldwater Road and Sunset Point.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Southbound traffic will continue to use the general-purpose lanes, which are business as usual.

Here's what you need to know.

Where is the lane change?

Northbound drivers will transition from the regular lanes at Coldwater Road in Black Canyon City and use newly constructed crossover lanes to enter two flex lanes. Drivers will continue on the flex lanes for eight miles and rejoin the main general-purpose lanes through another set of crossover lanes at Sunset Point.

How long are the flex lanes?

Drivers will travel on the flex lanes for about eight miles between Coldwater Road and Sunset Point.

What exits are closed?

The I-17 construction also includes bridge work at Bumble Bee Road. While the detour is in place, drivers will not be able to access the northbound Bumble Bee Road exit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bumble Bee Road under northbound I-17 will be closed to traffic.

What is the construction project?

The I-17 Improvement Project covers 23 miles of construction between Anthem Way and Sunset Point. Construction began in 2022 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

ADOT said the project aims to enhance safety, improve traffic flow and support local economies.

Project highlights include:

Widening 15 miles of roadway between Anthem Way and Coldwater Road in Black Canyon City

Replacing two bridges and widening 10 others

Constructing about eight miles of flex lanes between Coldwater Road and Sunset Point

What are flex lanes?

According to ADOT, flex lanes operate as an additional two-lane roadway that carries one direction of traffic at a time. The lanes will alternate between northbound and southbound depending on the greatest traffic need.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

ADOT noted that the I-17 flex lanes will not operate as such during the traffic shift. The lanes will only support northbound traffic.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: ADOT introduces flex lanes on northbound I-17 to help with traffic
Supporters watch as North Dakota Gov. Kelly Armstrong signs a bill April 23, 2025, with reforms for health insurance prior authorization. (Photo provided by Office of the Governor)

North Dakotans want to keep their family members and the states workforce healthy.

When health care isnt prioritized, small issues can quickly turn into large problems and treatable conditions can become life-threatening, such as late-stage cancer. When the time comes to make an appointment, everyone wants the same things: simplicity, accessibility and affordability.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

All the data indicates, and headlines tell us, that cutting through red tape to ensure health care access and avoiding medical debt are top-of-mind issues. They can be some of the most frustrating parts of our lives.

This year the North Dakota Legislature did something about it.

By passing laws reforming insurance company practices on prior authorization and copay accumulator adjustments, the North Dakota Legislature made the health care process easier for those who need it most, including cancer patients and others with serious illnesses.

Prior authorization reform

Prior authorization was once used sparingly by insurers to determine whether costly medical procedures or medications were needed. But the process has devolved into a system requiring providers to get approval to prescribe even the most routine medications and procedures.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Physicians report the process can lead to significant delays in care, contributing to negative outcomes for patients, including abandoned treatment altogether. Senate Bill 2280 standardizes the prior authorization process and establishes time limits for review  72 hours in cases of emergency or seven calendar days for more routine requests  helping those in need of critical medical care avoid prolonged delays in treatment. It also eliminates artificial intelligence and business consultant overview from the process, making sure a doctor is doing the authorization and not a bot or bean counter.

We are so grateful to the bills primary sponsor, Sen. Scott Meyer of Grand Forks, with Sens. Jeff Barta (Grand Forks), Brad Bekkedahl (Williston) and Sean Cleary (Bismarck) co-sponsoring in the Senate and Reps. Jonathan Warrey (Casselton) and Jon Nelson (Rugby) in the House.

For the more than 4,500 North Dakotans who will be diagnosed with cancer in 2025, this legislation is a major step forward in making their treatment process less about red tape and more about recovery.

Copay accumulator adjustments

Legislation sponsored by Rep. Karen Karls of Bismarck, House Bill 1216 requires all prescription drug copayments made by patients, directly or on their behalf, to count toward their overall out-of-pocket maximum or deductible. This law essentially ends an insurance company practice that did not allow payments from outside entities to count toward a patients out-of-pocket cost obligations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Real life example: A cystic fibrosis patient received $5,000 in copay assistance to help with prescription drug out-of-pocket cost. That amount would cover the patients copay for the year, saving her $5,000. Under the old rules, the copay assistance would not count, and she would still have to pay $5,000 to meet her deductible or out-of-pocket maximum before her health plan started paying for her subsequent health care costs. Its like getting a scholarship to attend college but having the university keep the money  and your tuition remains the same.

That amount of money is life-changing for many, many North Dakotans. The new law will help ease the financial burden of some patients, many of whom are fully inundated with debt already. A 2022 American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network study found 31% of cancer patients noted paying for prescriptions as a challenge and 20% indicated that financial considerations had caused them to skip or delay taking prescribed medication.

Missed opportunity

As always, we should celebrate the wins, but there is always more that needs doing.

One piece of legislation that did not advance this session involved diagnostic and supplemental breast cancer screenings. House Bill 1283 would have required all state-regulated health policies to eliminate patient out-of-pocket costs for medically necessary diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Essentially, it would require breast diagnostic mammograms, breast ultrasounds, and breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans be covered by insurers at no-cost-share when needed after an abnormal initial screening or because of personal risk factors. Mammograms are a great detection tool and, for many, enough to give a full and clear breast cancer screening. But other patients need more and this legislation would have required insurance companies to pay the bill when doctors indicated additional tests were required to get that full and clean bill of health.

Legislation around biomarker testing is also in the future here. Biomarker testing is about identifying the most effective treatment for patients with cancer and other serious illnesses. It can open the door to precision treatments that can improve outcomes and quality of life for patients with many diseases and conditions. Biomarker testing can allow some patients to access targeted therapies and avoid more generalized treatments like chemo. Its about precision medicine, making sure folks get the right treatment at the right time. Similar legislation has been enacted in 21 states including Texas and Georgia. North Dakota is falling behind best practices in this regard, a situation that needs remedied.

It was a good session for North Dakotans who need health care. Which is to say, for all North Dakotans. We are grateful for the steps taken and look forward to moving ahead further in the months and sessions to come.
Unsettled weather lingers through the weekend. An upper-level low will hover over the Southeast U.S., sending waves of rain and storms across the Birmingham area each day.

Wednesday: The upper-level low will be positioned west of Alabama. As the morning rain shield moves east, a brief period of gusty winds is possible as a wake low moves across Central Alabama. A few showers and storms re-develop and linger into the evening. High temperatures will reach the mid to upper 70s.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thursday & Friday: The upper-level low will stall over the ArkLaTex on Thursday and Friday, placing Alabama on the east side and sending upper-level waves across the state. Each wave will trigger another round of scattered showers and storms, with downpours likely. A few storms Thursday afternoon and evening could be strong with gusty winds and hail. However, it will not be a complete washout on either day, with expected high temperatures in the upper 70s up to the low 80s Thursday.

Mothers Day Weekend Outlook: Expect changes to the weekend forecast each day, depending on the position of the upper-level low. It is currently projected to remain west of Alabama, suggesting a chance for scattered showers and storms on Saturday and Sunday. However, it will not be a washout. High temperatures will be in the middle 70s.

Be sure to follow the CBS 42 Storm Team:

Follow Us on Facebook: Chief Meteorologist Dave Nussbaum, Meteorologist Michael Haynes, Meteorologist Alex Puckett, and Meteorologist Jacob Woods.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Before crashing into the Hudson River back in April, the sightseeing helicopter separated into three parts, the NTSB said in a preliminary report

Surveillance video, along with audio, captured the Bell 206 chopper traveling south before it "suddenly separated into three major sections"

Pilot Seankese Carrell Johnson as well as Agustin Escobar, his wife and their three young children were killed in the crash



Authorities have revealed new details about what happened to the helicopter that crashed into the Hudson River in April, killing a tourist family of five and a pilot.

According to the NTSB report released on Wednesday, May 7, surveillance video and audio showed the Bell 206 chopper traveling south before it "suddenly separated into three major sections" and hit the water.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The major sections that investigators were able to recover were the helicopter's fuselage, which included the engine, the main rotor system as well as the tail boom.

"The fuselage came to rest, inverted, north of the Holland Tunnel ventilation towers where the water depth was about 6 ft," the NTSB wrote. Meanwhile the other sections were found submerged at a depth of around 30 feet.

Additionally, they wrote that more debris was found on the surface of the river as well as on the rooftop near the transit building in Hoboken, New Jersey.

Lokman Vural Elibol/Anadolu via Getty Police and firefighters work on the site after the helicopter crashed into the Hudson River. Police and firefighters work on the site after the helicopter crashed into the Hudson River.

The report went on to note that the helicopter was not equipped with any video or data recording devices, and that while pilot Seankese Carrell Johnson was photographed before take-off wearing computer-augmented sunglasses, which had video and audio recording capability, those glasses were not recovered.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Additionally, federal investigators said that at the time of the crash, Johnson had been working a "10 days on/10 days off" schedule  and that the day of the crash was his first day back after his most recent time off. That flight was the helicopter's eighth tour of the day. All were operated by Johnson.

Related: Brother of Woman Who Died in N.Y.C. Helicopter Crash Flies to U.S. to Identify Bodies, Vows to 'Never Forget' His Family Members

Agustin Escobar, his wife Merce Camprubi Montal and their three young children  ages 10, 9 and 4  were visiting New York City from Spain at the time of the crash.

A funeral for the family was held in Barcelona on Tuesday, April 22.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Related: Tourist Family of 5 Killed in Helicopter Crash Is Laid to Rest. Their Funeral Included a Touching Song Choice

On April 14, the sightseeing company that operated the helicopter received an emergency order of suspension ordered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

According to the other, Mr. Jason Costello, the Director of Operations of NY Helicopter, agreed that NY Helicopter would cease operations as requested until investigations were complete.



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 preliminary report does not include a cause for the crash. A probable cause will not be determined until the NTBS releases their final report, which is likely still months away.



Read the original article on People
Former President Joe Biden rebuked Donald Trumps handling of Vladimir Putin and Russias conflict with Ukraine as modern-day appeasement in his first interview since leaving the White House in January.

The Democrat sat for a wide-ranging interview with the BBC in Delaware this week, addressing the current state of global affairs and his thoughts on his successor.

Biden responded with blistering criticism when pressed for his opinion on Trumps behavior since taking office, including the presidents threats against Greenland, making Canada the 51st state, talking about acquiring the Panama Canal, and renaming the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What the hells going on here? What president ever talks like that? he told the Today programs Nick Robinson. Thats not who we are. Were about freedom, democracy, opportunity, not about confiscation.

Speaking about Ukraine, the former president said that his administration supplied the nation with everything they needed to provide for their independence, adding that the U.S. was prepared to offer support if Putin further escalated the war. Trump had previously argued that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had played Biden like a fiddle.

Former President Joe Biden sat for a wide-ranging interview with the BBC in Delaware this week, his first since leaving office (BBC/Radio 4 Today)

Biden also condemned the Trump administration for suggesting that Ukraine would have to cede some territory to Russia in order to secure a peace deal and end the conflict.

It is modern-day appeasement, Biden said, referencing the policy of former British prime minister Neville Chamberlain, a diplomacy strategy that attempted to agree to Adolf Hitlers short-term demands to avoid all-out war breaking out, which failed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Biden said anybody who believes Putin is going to stop the conflict if Ukrainian territory is conceded is just foolish.

I just dont understand how people think that if we allow a dictator, a thug, to decide hes going to take significant portions of land that arent his, that thats going to satisfy him, he said of the Russian president. I dont quite understand.

Tensions between Washington and Kyiv exploded in late February when Zelensky was ambushed by Trump and Vice President JD Vance in the Oval Office.

Talks that began more cordially devolved into a furious shouting match with Trump accusing the Ukrainian leader of gambling with World War III, and Zelensky initially leaving without a minerals deal needed to secure U.S. help in ending the war.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I found it sort of beneath America in the way that took place, Biden said.

Biden (left), speaking with the BBCs Nick Robinson, shared his thoughts on the Trump administrations handling of Russias war with Ukraine (BBC/Radio 4 Today)

Biden, the last living U.S. president to be born during World War II, shared his fears about NATO dying out and U.S. withdrawal under the Trump administration. Trump has repeatedly stated that the U.S. is being ripped off by its allies and Vance said that America continues to bail out Europe.

I think it would change the modern history of the world if that occurs, he said. Were the only nation in a position to have the capacity to bring people together, [to] lead the world. Otherwise, youre going to have China and the former Soviet Union, Russia, stepping up.

Biden argued that he didnt think it would have mattered if he had decided to drop out of the race for the White House sooner amid concerns over his cognitive acuity in the summer of 2024.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Speaking about dropping out of the race and allowing his Vice President Kamala Harris to take his place to take on Trump in the November election, Biden remained bullish.

We left at a time when we had a good candidate. Things moved so quickly that it made it difficult to walk away, he said. And it was a hard decision. I think it was the right decision. I think that it was just a difficult decision.

Reflecting on Trumps return to office, which has seen the president issue a flurry of executive orders, dismantle federal departments and foment a global trade war, Biden attempted to draw comparisons from when he left office and now.

Our economy was growing. We were moving in a direction where the stock market was way up, he said. We were in a situation where we were expanding our influence around the world in a positive way, increasing trade.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump boasted of his very special first 100 days in office before he listed off his administrations efforts in a so-called achievement speech during the largest rally of his second term in Michigan late last month.

When pressed on Trump 2.0, Biden said: I dont see anything that was triumphant.
ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR)  Every day, people and organizations are trying to make a difference to Stamp Out Hunger.

This Saturday, May 10, is the 33rd National Association of Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive, one of the largest one-day food drives in the US. The event is held every year on the second Saturday in May and accepts non-perishable food donations, which are distributed to local food pantries.

The food then helps fill the plates of the people who need it the most.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

More Hunger to Hope stories on WFXRtv.com

These donations are crucial for Feeding Southwest Virginia, and the public is asked to help provide for the community and share the news about the event this Saturday. Anyone interested in helping can fill a bag or blue bag provided by the US Postal Service with non-perishable foods, including canned soup, canned vegetables, canned meats and fish, pasta, rice, or cereal.

Residents can then leave the bags next to their mailbox before mail is delivered on Saturday, May 10, for pickup by mail carriers who will then drop them off at local food agencies, including Feeding Southwest Virginia.

Thank you for your help in building awareness of the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive this weekend! Thanks for caring about hunger!

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 WFXRtv.
An international NGO worker with a presence in Gaza illustrates the current situation with a simile. There is an old world of humanitarian aid  where U.N. agencies and NGOs have operated for decades, guided by principles like impartiality and independence. And now, there is a new world: one in which Israel plans to resume the entry of food, water, and medicine after nine weeks of blockade, during which looting became widespread and staples like flour and sugar cost more in Gaza than in the worlds most-expensive countries.

On Monday, the Israeli security cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, approved this new world, alongside a plan to permanently occupy at least parts of the Gaza Strip  a move for which tens of thousands of reservists have already been mobilized.

Following the forced displacement of nearly the entire population, Israeli soldiers will use biometric data to determine who can pass. In addition, private U.S. security contractors  similar to those who once navigated the ruins of Iraq and Afghanistan  will monitor the process. U.N. agencies and international NGOs active in Gaza have made it clear they will not participate, raising countless questions about the future of humanitarian aid for the 2.2 million people who are already suffering and on the brink of starvation.

Militarization of aid

Israel plans to launch the new aid distribution system this month. While it has not formally disclosed the full details, official statements and leaks have outlined a highly militarized approach to humanitarian assistance  one that has already sparked deep concern across the aid sector.

Firstly, it is based on the largest forced population displacement since the start of the Israeli invasion 18 months ago. Gazans will be relocated to the southern city of Khan Yunis, where three aid distribution points will be established. The Israeli Armed Forces will then allow approximately 60 trucks with basic humanitarian food and household items into Gaza a day. This represents just 10% of the aid delivered daily during the two-month ceasefire that Netanyahu broke in March. It falls far short of meeting the needs of a population where, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, at least 54 people have already died from malnutrition or dehydration.

The plan resembles the situation 15 years ago, during the most severe phase of the Gaza blockade following Hamas rise to power, when the Israeli military used a mathematical formula to determine the minimum number of calories per person that had to be allowed into the territory to avert a famine.

One of the main changes is the involvement of private U.S. security contractors. They will monitor the trucks from the Kerem Shalom border crossing to the distribution points in southern Gaza. These areas will be under the full and permanent control of the Israeli Army, which will decide who is allowed in and will manage the biometric data of those attempting to enter. Each family will be allowed a single representative.

The contractors will also be responsible for the security of the distribution points, but not for delivering the aid itself, which will be handled by humanitarian workers. This is where the opaque Gaza Humanitarian Foundation comes into play  a recently registered organization in Switzerland whose top officials lack experience in the humanitarian field. Israels Chief of Staff, Eyal Zamir, has made it clear that troops will not deliver the aid.

The risks are clear: the Israeli army would have the power to decide who gains access to food and who doesnt as a form of reward or punishment. Theres also the danger for both Gazans and humanitarian workers of having to travel to a heavily militarized area they are currently prohibited from approaching. What will those living miles away from the distribution zone eat? Add to this the difficulties faced by the elderly or people with mobility issues, or the challenge for others of transporting a food package weighing an estimated 70 kilos per week across a devastated Gaza with almost no fuel.

In short, the plan strays far from the principles that underpin humanitarian action: humanity, impartiality, independence, and neutrality. As U.N. humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher stated in a press release, the proposal does not meet the minimum bar for principled humanitarian support.

It basically goes against the way we deliver aid, which is by going to where people are, rather than telling them to go to a specific place to pick it up, Olga Cherevko, spokesperson for the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), told EL PAIS via videoconference. Some due to financial, age, or mobility issues  will not be able to reach them. And the rest will risk their lives even further just to be able to eat: One of the most fundamental principles is do no harm. And this definitely puts people in danger, said Cherevko, who has spent five years in Gaza.

In a joint statement meant to show unity and a stronger stance than usual, the forum bringing together the heads of U.N. agencies and NGOs (both international and Palestinian) working on humanitarian issues in Gaza and the West Bank made clear on Sunday that they will not participate in Israels plan.

It contravenes fundamental humanitarian principles and appears designed to reinforce control over life-sustaining items as a pressure tactic  as part of a military strategy," read the statement. It is dangerous, driving civilians into militarized zones to collect rations, threatening lives, including those of humanitarian workers, while further entrenching forced displacement.

Both Fletcher and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on world leaders to use their influence to ensure that Israel maintains the current system, lifts the blockade, and allows the roughly 3,000 aid trucks  waiting for clearance for weeks on the other side of the border  to enter.

Philippe Lazzarini, the Commissioner-General of the U.N. refugee agency for Palestine refugees (UNRWA), described Israels politically motivated starvation in Gaza as an expression of absolute cruelty.

It cannot be addressed by weaponizing humanitarian assistance, he posted on social media on Tuesday. Humanitarian agencies have a set of principles to ensure assistance is delivered to all those in need, without exception. The model of aid distribution proposed by the State of Israel falls far short from addressing the devastating hunger.

Israel justifies the need for this mechanism by claiming it is meant to prevent Hamas from stealing aid  a claim for which it has presented no evidence and which has not been corroborated by any international organization or NGO operating on the ground.

We have no evidence that large-scale diversion by Hamas is occurring. So, in our view, its not a truly valid claim, said Cherevko, adding that U.N. agencies have their own systems to prevent this and to be accountable to donors. We have a mechanism that works, that is neither broken nor corrupt. And thats why its been working for a long time.

On Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump repeated Israels claims, arguing that Hamas was making it impossible for the population to receive aid. Were going to help the people of Gaza get some food. People are starving, and were going to help them get some food, he said.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Police are searching for a missing man they say was stuck in a wash in Henderson Tuesday, according to officials.

Around 2:20 p.m., Henderson police and fire departments responded to the wash area near Aloha Drive and Pueblo Avenue near Burkholder Boulevard and North Major Avenue for a swift water rescue for one person.

Officers and fire crews saw an adult man in the water however, he was quickly immersed back underwater. All attempts to locate the man were unsuccessful, officials said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Flash flood warning for central Clark County

The swift water rescue is being treated as a missing person. Police were unable to identify the man at this time, according to officials.

In an update on Thursday, police said search teams used bikes and UTVs to access difficult terrain, including trails and wash areas. K9 units searched grounds while drones and helicopters provided aerial support.

Despite efforts and more than 100 hours dedicated to the search, as of Thursday at 1 p.m., police were unable to locate the missing man, and the case remained open.

Police said they identified several areas that currently cannot be searched safely. Those locations are being monitored and will be reassessed as conditions improve.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact the Henderson Police Department.

This is an ongoing story, stay with 8 News Now for updates.

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.
HENDERSON, Nev. (KLAS)  The city of Henderson settled Tuesday with the family of a teenager killed when a speeding driver hit a well-known bump in the road and lost control of his car.

Rex Patchett, 13, died when Jose Marmolejo, then 21 years old, struck him on March 7, 2022, on Paradise Hills Drive. In an investigation first aired in November 2023, the 8 News Now Investigators found in the years before Rexs death, several cars had hit the same obstacle in the road, landing where Rex would later fight for his life.

The bump, sometimes referred to in the neighborhood as Mannions Bump or Mannions Hump, was an unplanned ridge in the road that became a favorite for racers. Its allowed drivers to go airborne.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Marmolejo was driving more than 90 miles per hour, police said after his arrest. Documents the 8 News Now Investigators reviewed showed the city was aware of the bump through prior crash reports. The city later fixed the bump after Rexs death.

Complaints to the city about the road and the bump include one from a neighbor who wrote to the city about a serious chronic problem, calling Paradise Hills Drive a drag strip.

However, two days after Rexs death and after years of violent crashes involving the bump, a Henderson employee sent an email saying traffic engineers were not aware of [the bumps] existence.

The agreement, which the Henderson City Council approved of Tuesday, pays the Patchett family $225,000 to settle its lawsuit against them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This settlement represents a full and final resolution of all claims against the city, an agenda summary page said. The city does not admit any liability or wrongdoing. Each party will bear its own attorneys fees and costs of litigation.

Rex Patchett waves to the camera in this final photo of him taken about an hour before the crash that took his life on March 7, 2022, his father said. (Jason Patchett)

The settlement agreement was part of the councils consent agenda and there was no discussion about it. The Patchett family declined to comment.

The lawsuit initially involved the city, Marmolejo and the Clark County School District. A judge later dismissed the claim against the school district. The lawsuit had claimed both the city and the district knew about the bump and failed to fix it.

A judge sentenced Marmolejo to 2-6 years in prison. The Nevada Parole Board granted him parole last October.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2023, Republican Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo signed Rexs Law, increasing prison time to a maximum of 10 years for similar cases of reckless driving in school zones.

City leadership declined to 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 KLAS.
New Delhi, India  In the first hours of Wednesday, Indian armed forces said they struck nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, where residents woke up to loud explosions, as the nuclear-armed rivals edged to the precipice of a full-blown military conflict.

New Delhi said its missiles precisely targeted terrorist infrastructure across the border while demonstrating considerable restraint. The Indian Army, in a statement, said the attack was non-escalatory in nature and pointed out that Pakistani military facilities were deliberately not targeted.

Yet a fuming Islamabad claimed that Indian attacks in six Pakistani cities killed at least 8 civilians, including two children. Pakistani ministers also claimed that the countrys air force had shot down several Indian military jets.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Indias missile attacks  called Operation Sindoor  were the countrys response to the deadly April 22 attack in Indian-administered-Kashmirs Pahalgam, in which 26 people were killed. India blamed Pakistan for that attack, while Islamabad denied it had any role. Since then, Indian armed forces have combed the forests near Pahalgam, arrested more than 2,000 people and raided homes in an unsuccessful manhunt for the gunmen who fled after shooting tourists dead.

The May 7 attacks on Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir offer Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi a chance to bolster his strongman image at home, analysts told Al Jazeera. But the Indian governments emphasis on signalling restraint points to an attempt to balance that domestic message with a different narrative for the rest of the world.

Amid it all stands an undisputed fact, say analysts: Indias attacks have raised the risks of the region spiralling into a wider conflict.

Concerning development

The Indian attacks were the most expansive since the neighbours last fought a full-fledged war in 1971  a time when neither had nuclear weapons at their disposal as they do now.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Of the six places that Indian missiles struck, two are cities  Muzaffarabad and Kotli  in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The region of Kashmir  one of the worlds most militarised zones  is claimed in full, and ruled in parts, by India and Pakistan, who have fought three wars over it.

But the other four targets that India struck are in Punjab -Bahawalpur, Muridke, Sialkot and Shakar Garh. Among them, Bahawalpur falls in southern Punjab province, facing the Thar desert, while Muridke is just next to Lahore, Pakistans second-largest city, with a population of 14 million.

The Indian military has not hit Punjab, Pakistans economic heartland that is also home to 60 percent of the countrys population, since 1971.

Indian air attacks since then have mostly targeted remote parts of Pakistan or Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Six years ago, Indian jets fired missiles at Balakot in Pakistans Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, after a suicide bomber killed at least 40 Indian paramilitary soldiers in Indian-administered Kashmir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These May 7 attacks are different. Lahore, next to Muridke, is close to the Indian border and is Pakistans second-most populous city, pointed out Sumantra Bose, an Indian political scientist whose work focuses on the intersection of nationalism and conflict in South Asia. Bahawalpur, in southern Punjab, is also a key city.

The Indian government claims that it strategically hit only terror infrastructure. And in a post on X, the Indian army said, Justice is served.

But Bose said the attacks were a very concerning development.

Surgically targeted precision strikes do not change the fact that there have been these large explosions in major Pakistani population centres, said Bose. This is proper Pakistan, not Pakistan-administered-Kashmir [claimed by India].

Likely domestic dividends for Modi

Two days after the Pahalgam attack, Modi said, in an address at an election rally in the poll-bound state of Bihar, that his government would identify, trace, and punish every terrorist and their backers, promising to pursue them to the ends of the Earth.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Following the attack, India suspended its participation in the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) that Pakistan counts on for its water security. Islamabad has threatened to walk out of past peace deals. Both nations have also expelled each others diplomats, military attaches and hundreds of civilians.

But there has been growing domestic pressure on the Modi government, said political analysts, to attack Pakistan after the Pahalgam attack.

There was a high level of pressure on Modi to respond with muscle, said Michael Kugelman, director of the South Asia Institute at the Wilson Center in Washington, DC. It would have been unfathomable for Indias government not to respond militarily, given Modis self-projection as an administrator who is strong, confident, decisive, determined to hit back hard against terrorism.

Rasheed Kidwai, a political analyst in New Delhi, said the Pahalgam attack had emotionally driven a desire in the Indian public for retribution against the attackers and those seen as their enablers. And Modi, with his image as someone who delivers on national security, was catering to those sentiments. India is retaliating in a precise manner, Kidwai said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In many ways, the May 7 Indian missile attacks were in keeping with the script New Delhi had outlined since the April 22 killings in Pahalgam, said Praveen Donthi, a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group.

Like Kugelman and Kidwai, Donthi referred to the image that the Modi government has created for itself domestically. This moment aligns with Indias self-projection as a strong security state with zero tolerance for terrorism, primarily directed against Pakistan, and Modis strongman persona. It was a self-created litmus test that the Indian government needed to ace, he told Al Jazeera. There are likely domestic dividends for it.

But, Donthi warned, the Indian attack on Pakistan also portends future risks.

Kugelman agreed, describing the Wednesday missile attacks as the most intense levels of Indian military actions weve seen in Pakistan for quite a few years now.

Whats next?

Back in Pakistan, as officials pledge retaliation against what they call Indias act of war, Kugelman said the situation suits Islamabads military leadership, too.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The attacks will actually bolster Pakistans current regime because the military leadership can use these attacks to rally the public around the military leadership, he said. The military has tended to derive its legitimacy from this idea that it needs to protect the country from the threat posed by India. We could see a rally around the flag effect [in Pakistan].

Since the Indian attack, both armies have traded heavy artillery and gunfire across the de facto border in disputed Kashmir. Currently, Kugelman said, there is a pretty strong possibility of escalation, given that both countries have nuclear weapons.

The more hostilities that are used through conventional military force under a nuclear umbrella, the higher the risk of nuclear escalation.

Were not there, he noted. But certainly, the escalation risks are quite high.
A Haitian migrant charged with raping a teenage girl at a Massachusetts family shelter wants to be released from custody after a judge set his bail at $150,000 last fall.

The states Supreme Judicial Court heard arguments Wednesday morning about a Plymouth County judges decision to increase the mans original $500 bail to prevent his deportation and allow the case to proceed.

Prosecutors asked for 26-year-old Cory Alvarezs bail to be set at $1 million after federal immigration authorities sought to deport him in October, before a judge set it at $150,000.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Alvarez is charged with raping a teenage girl at a Comfort Inn in Rockland and his deportation was set for Oct. 31 before a state judge intervened. The hotel where Alvarez lived was part of the states shelter program for homeless families, Plymouth County District Attorney Timothy Cruzs Office previously said.

Federal immigration authorities have an agreement with Cruzs office not to detain Alvarez as long as he remains in state custody, according to John Zanini, a lawyer for the district attorneys office, at Wednesdays hearing.

The United States government could go pick up Mr. Alvarez, take him into custody and remove him any time they want and they have not, Zanini said. They have not because they are respecting right now our custody so that we can proceed with our trial.

Alvarez appeared before an immigration judge last year, and based on his admissions and concessions, was found removable, according to Zanini. Alvarez did not appeal the decision and used it as a tool to escape prosecution, Zanini wrote in a court filing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Zanini added that the judge considered Alvarezs lack of community connections, lack of work history, the nature of the case, the potential penalty and the strength of the prosecutions case when setting the $150,000 bail.

A misuse of bail laws?

Alvarezs attorney, Brian Kelley, argued that the states bail law has a glaring omission when it comes to considering immigration issues such as deportations.

Legislators didnt write the bail laws to consider the deportation issue, Kelley said.

Bail increases are usually for defendants who violate conditions of their release, and high bail amounts are typically set for people who are considered flight risks, Kelley said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What bothers me about this case is that its completely out of [Alvarezs] hands, Kelley said.

If allowed to be the rule, immigrant-defendants who face a possibility of being deported will [be] unfairly subjected to higher (or held without) bail to prevent them being deported through no fault of their own, Kelley wrote in a filing. If allowed to stand, the Courts decision would create a wholly different standard of bail for immigrants, which has not been established before.

Judge Scott Kafker asked whether the state and the victims interest in justice being done is a factor.

I cant say its not a factor, Kelley responded, but suggested that, if Alvarez was released and detained by the federal government, immigration authorities could guarantee his appearance in court.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Supreme Judicial Court judges did not issue a ruling Wednesday.

Alvarezs history

Alvarez is in the United States as part of the Biden administrations Humanitarian Parole Program for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans, according to prosecutors.

On the night of March 13, police went to the Comfort Inn in Rockland at 850 Hingham St. after hotel staff reported a girl said she had been raped, Rockland Police Det. Sgt. Greg Pigeon testified in Hingham District Court during Alvarezs dangerousness hearing in March.

Rockland police took the girl to South Shore Hospital for treatment after arriving at the hotel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Alvarez entered the country legally and had undergone two background checks, Kelley said at a prior court hearing, citing Gov. Maura Healeys office. It was not clear how long Alvarez had been living at the hotel and Kelley said he spent time in New York City before arriving in Massachusetts.

The girl and Alvarez had no pre-existing relationship before the incident, both prosecutors and Kelley previously confirmed.

What happens next

Prosecutors argued in favor of increasing Alvarezs bail to keep him in Massachusetts and face prosecution on his charges: aggravated rape of a child with 10 year age difference and rape of a child by force.

His deportation would have (left) him unable to answer the accusations against him, Cruzs office said in a statement. Such a scenario would halt the case indefinitely, preventing any resolution for both the alleged victim and the defendant.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Judge Elaine Buckle found the prosecutors arguments convincing in October. The district attorneys office quoted the judge as saying, The Commonwealth does have a case of strength. The court finds justice requires the increase in bail.

Alvarez is scheduled to appear in Plymouth Superior Court on July 23.

More News

Read the original article on MassLive.
The conclave to pick a new pope is a secretive process, but the public gets updated on the outcome of every vote when either black or white smoke fills the sky above the Vatican

Black smoke means the cardinals did not come to a two-thirds consensus, while white smoke means a new pope has been elected

Some chemical additives have been added to the burnt ballots to avoid any possible confusion over the smoke's color

After every vote during the conclave to pick Pope Francis's successor, either black or white smoke will fill the sky above the Vatican.

Although the voting takes place behind closed doors and is notoriously secretive, this longstanding tradition is a way to inform the public of the outcome of the vote. Black smoke (fumata nera) means the voting cardinals did not come to a two-thirds consensus. White smoke (fumata bianca), on the other hand, means a new pope has been elected.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Related: What Is a 'Conclave' and How Does It Work? An Expert Demystifies the 'Secret' Process That Decides the Next Pope (Exclusive)

The smoke tradition is not nearly as old as the papacy itself or even the Sistine Chapel, where the voting takes place. The special chimney that gets temporarily installed every conclave dates back to the 1700s, according to History.com  and as the BBC points out, since the Sistine Chapel is a work of art itself, installation can be a delicate process.

"This is such a precise process because if one thing goes wrong, it's not just a technical failure - it becomes an international incident," structural engineer Kevin Farlam told the outlet.



Guido MARZILLA/Gamma-Rapho via Getty White smoke in 2013 announced that Jorge Bergoglio of Argentina was elected pope White smoke in 2013 announced that Jorge Bergoglio of Argentina was elected pope

Related: Conclave to Pick New Pope 'Will Be Short,' Predicts Cardinal: 'I Think There Is a Consensus'

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Burning ballots after they've been counted, which truly ensures their secrecy, dates back to the 1400s, according to History.com, although historian Frederic J. Baumgartner told the outlet that the tradition likely began way earlier.



The Irish News reported that the use of white smoke only came about during the 1914 conclave, which ended up choosing Pope Benedict XV. The use of black smoke, however, can be traced to the 1800s.



Related: What Did Conclave Get Right and Wrong About Picking the New Pope? Fact-Checking the Oscar-Winning Movie

However, as conclaves came and went, it became difficult to control the color of the smoke.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2005, after previous conclaves ended up releasing gray-looking smoke and confusing onlookers, the Vatican adopted a new strategy. The smoke still comes from the burning of ballots, but it is now also combined with chemical additives from another stove.

That same year, which resulted in the election of Pope Benedict XVI, the Vatican also began ringing bells as confirmation that a new pope has been chosen.

The BBC reported that black smoke is created by a mixture of potassium perchlorate, anthracene and sulphur, while white smoke is created with potassium chlorate, lactose and rosin.

Read the original article on People
The White House is already walking back Donald Trumps Sunday night Truth Social proposal to put a 100 percent tariff on foreign-made films. Hollywood, meanwhile, is likely hoping he changes course completely, despite agreeing with the presidents overall goal of shoring up shrinking U.S. film production.

After Trump announced his plan, which officials later said had not been finalized, many in the U.S. film industry and beyond condemned the idea, arguing it could be difficult to enforce given the international nature of modern film and TV business models. In addition, the extra levies could deliver a knock-out blow to an industry just recovering from the Covid pandemic.

Film and TV heavyweights accused the president of misunderstanding the business. Succession star Brian Cox told Times Radio that Trump is not really understanding the point of view of how films are made, and what films cost, [how] the cost of films [has] gone up and that the cost of films in America went up considerably.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Instead, many in the business are hoping Trump pursues the kind of generous federal tax incentives seen in other film hubs like the UK and Canada, whose prime minister Mark Carney was visiting the White House on Tuesday.

I actually agree with the goal here, as I think many U.S. film execs would, a film financier told Deadline after the tariff proposal dropped. Its crazy how much production has moved overseas due to the absence of rebates here. But obviously the need is for rebates, not tariffs. Tariffs will just choke the remaining life out of the business. Volume would drop to a historic low.

The United States needs a balanced federal response to return film and television jobs, Matthew D. Loeb, the president of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, which represents much of Hollywoods behind-the-scenes talent, said in a statement. IATSE recommended that the Trump administration implement a federal film production tax incentive and other domestic tax provisions to level the playing field for American workers.

Actor Jon Voight, one of Trumps three special ambassadors to Hollywood, reportedly met with the president over the weekend to discuss the film industry.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The actor submitted a comprehensive plan, including federal tax incentives, significant changes to several tax codes, the establishment of co-production treaties with foreign countries, and infrastructure subsidies for theater owners, film and television production companies, and post-production companies, according to his manager Steven Paul.

The proposal also includes a focus on job training, and tariffs in certain limited circumstances, Pauls company SP Global Media said in a statement to CNBC.

A smaller contingent, including the Teamsters union, celebrated the tariff idea, calling it a strong step toward reining in the studios un-American addiction to outsourcing our members work.

Solutions will be sorely needed to revive the golden days of Hollywood.

Los Angeles-area film, TV, and commercial on-location production days fell by 22.4 percent in the first quarter of this year, compared with 2024, according to FilmLA.
DAWSON SPRINGS, Ky. (WEHT)  Its been nearly three and a half years since a deadly tornado tore through Western Kentucky, devastating many locations, including Dawson Springs. That recovery process continues as four families received brand new keys to their brand new homes. Those families, all losing their homes in the 2021 tornado, took another step forward through a special joint home dedication ceremony.

Dawson Springs Mayor Jenny Sewell and Kentuckys Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman were on hand to celebrate with the families. Much of the construction was aided by the Fuller Center, which helps families with safe, affordable housing. A volunteer group from Minnesota has also helped the rebuilding process, and was on-hand at the dedication ceremony to give hand-crafted prayer quilts to the families.

USDA announces approval of D-SNAP for western KY counties

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The new homes have been largely funded through the Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund, which raised $52 million after the storm. Lieutenant Governor Coleman says seeing new homes go up reminds her of how long the road to recovery has been. To be here today, to be able to celebrate people getting into new homes, its a completely different feeling, explains Coleman. Its hope and its gratitude, and its a lot of folks who came together to do a lot of work over a long period of time that has allowed these families to have a second chance.

Coleman says the fact they are still able to use the relief fund shows the generosity of those in Western Kentucky and around the country.

More from Cody Bailey

Eyewitness News. Everywhere you are.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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).
SPRINGFIELD, Ill.  Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was in Springfield on Wednesday to decry Illinois policies that limit state and local law enforcements cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

People are dying every day because of these policies. People are evading justice, Noem told reporters during a news conference on street corner near downtown Springfield. Governors like JB Pritzker dont care if gangbangers, murderers, rapists and pedophiles roam free in his state.

Noems event was held near where Emma Shafer, a 24-year-old community organizer, was stabbed to death in July 2023. The alleged killer, who Noem said was in the U.S. illegally at the time of the crime, remains at large.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Noem, who was accompanied by several Republican state lawmakers, was met by about a dozen protesters, including a friend of Shafers, who shouted How dare you use Emma for your racist agenda.

Noem was undeterred.

We have to double down at removing dangerous criminals, she said. Governor Pritzker has created a sanctuary here for those criminals and invited them here with free health care, free housing, free assistance and facilitated them being protected and brought to justice.

Pritzker quickly sent out a statement blasting Noems event as a publicity stunt.

Unlike Donald Trump and Kristi Noem, Illinois follows the law, Pritzker said in the statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Trump Administration is violating the United States Constitution, denying people due process, and disappearing law-abiding neighbors  including children who are U.S. citizens, Pritzker said. Yet, they are taking no real action to promote public safety and deport violent criminals within the clear and defined legal process.

On the eve of Noems visit, Pritzkers office sent out an uncharacteristically snarky e-mail blast to reporters criticizing Noems reality television style of governance and making a reference to an anecdote in her memoir in which she said she shot and killed her puppy because of its aggressive personality

We would urge all pet owners in the region to make sure all of your beloved animals are under watchful protection while the Secretary is in the region, the email said.

The Trump administration continues to do battle over Illinois immigration policies in the courts. A lawsuit filed against the state and other governmental entities by the Trump administration, which has argued sanctuary policies violate the U.S. Constitutions Supremacy Clause, which prohibits Illinois, Chicago, Cook County, and their officials from obstructing the Federal Governments ability to enforce laws that Congress has enacted or to take actions entrusted to it by the Constitution.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lawsuit goes after the states 2017 Trust Act, which signed into law by Pritzkers predecessor, Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner. The law generally prohibits state and local law enforcement from getting involved in deportation efforts with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement which is under Noems department, or other federal law enforcement agencies dealing with immigration matters.

While the law prevents state and local law enforcement from assisting the federal government with regular immigration enforcement, it allows coordination when there is a federal criminal warrant involved.

But the Justice Department argued the policies obstruct ICEs ability to acquire judicial warrants by cutting off the agency from information needed to satisfy the heightened standard for such a warrant.

The state argues the U.S. Constitution protects Illinois sovereign right to decline to provide this assistance, and no federal law cited in the complaint overrides the choice Illinois has made.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Noems visit highlighted the sharp partisan divide over immigration policy.

On Tuesday, Republican U.S. Rep. Mary Miller of central Illinois, a member of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, called on Illinois sheriffs to defy the states sanctuary laws, uphold President Trumps federal immigration policies, and cooperate with ICE to deport illegal aliens.

We must act now before one more innocent American life is lost or harmed, she said in a statement.

Republican state Sen. Andrew Chesney, a Trump delegate during last summers Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, said Tuesday that its fantastic that Noems visiting Springfield to criticize him for rolling out the red carpet for illegal immigrants, particularly those with violent criminal records.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gov. Pritzker has no interest in this, Chesney said. He certainly doesnt have a track record that supports his interests in curbing the criminal activity.

Shortly after Noems visit, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, a Democrat, criticized her for visiting Springfield on the same day as the national deadline for air travelers to obtain a REAL ID, another initiative overseen by Homeland Security.

Instead of dealing with this issue on the day that theyve implemented this deadline, instead of doing her job, she is traveling around doing vanity stops to make political hits instead of her doing her job, Giannoulias said. Shes weaponized the Real ID system, which was meant, by the way, to make us a safer country allegedly.

Latino lawmakers also condemned Noems visit, especially on Latino Unity Day at the state Capitol. They said it was disingenuous to highlight non-citizens as being criminals when most obey the law.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The fact that they come here, it just gives us another method, another way, to say that they absolutely suck at what theyre supposed to be doing, state Rep. Edgar Gonzalez, a Democrat representing Chicagos heavily-Latino Little Village community, said of the Trump administration.

Theyre trying to equate being brown and being Latino with being a criminal, and we understand and we see what theyre doing, said state Sen. Celina Villanueva, also a Democrat representing Little Village. This is political posturing that theyre trying to do because of the governors stances and also the states stance on immigrants in our state.

-----------

Tribune reporter Addison Wright contributed.

____
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL)  In January, the annual Point in Time (PIT) count surveyed the number of unhoused people in Northeast Tennessee. Now, the results are in and show homelessness has nearly tripled since 2020.

In 2020, the PIT count found nearly 400 people without housing. This year, the number is over 900.

The annual survey is required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in order for organizations and local governments to receive federal funding to combat homelessness.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Volunteers and social service agency members spend a night finding unhoused individuals and interviewing them to try and analyze trends.

PREVIOUS: Northeast Tennessee PIT Count organizer discusses importance of taking census on homelessness

Opal Frye-Clark is the President of the Unity Housing board. She believes there are more unhoused people than the survey found.

This is a snapshot within a 24-hour period of time that you go out into the community, and you try to physically count the number of individuals experiencing homelessness, said Frye-Clark. While there was a specific number that yielded results from this year, it doesnt necessarily encompass everybody thats experiencing homelessness.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Terry Burdett is the Homeless Management Information Systems Manager at the Appalachian Regional Coalition on Homelessness (ARCH). He said there are multiple reasons the number has increased, including rent hikes.

We have an affordable rental housing problem, and our older folks that are on fixed incomes, theyre struggling in our communities, said Burdett. Im not saying that weve got this huge increase on elderly homeless, but our demographics are aging just a little bit every year.

In Johnson City, rent has increased from 12% to over 17%, according to the 2025 Housing Needs Assessment.

Report details changes in Johnson City housing

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Burdett also noted that 10% of the respondents said they are homeless due to Hurricane Helene.

Both Frye-Clark and Burdett said the public can help by donating or volunteering at local homeless assistance centers and shelters.

If youre going to get involved, I would check out the organizations that are already doing things, Frye-Clark said. Support your local government in making decisions to increase the amount of housing opportunities for local individuals in the area.

A lot of our grants help with rental assistance, said Burdett, but then we have the issues with how about kitchenware?, you know, dining stuff, a bed to sleep on, a couch to sit on. So those are things that are difficult to pay with the grants, but funding outside the grants system can help us.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The PIT count also showed an increase in unhoused people with severe mental health and substance abuse issues. 40% of those surveyed struggled with one or both of those factors. Burdett said he thinks there is no reason to believe these solely contribute to homelessness.

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.
WHITINGHAM, Vt. (ABC22/FOX44)  A 30-year-old Whitingham man was ordered held without bail on a second-degree murder charge for the shooting death of his 75-year-old roommate.

Justin Stacy, 30, is accused of killing Robert J. Francis, 75, whose home Stacy shared, in February. Police said they learned of the alleged homicide on Monday, when a family member of Stacys came forward.

Court documents show that Stacy allegedly told the family member that the fatal shooting was a mercy killing. The family member said they came forward because Stacy had exhibited arratic behavior, including firing a muzzleloader outside the house.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Those with information about this incident can contact Detective Sgt. Frank LaBombard with the Major Crime Unit at VSPs Westminster Barracks by calling 802-722-4600 or leave an anonymous tip online.

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 ABC22 & FOX44.
The new pope elected in the conclave that begins on May 7, who will be presented to the world from the balcony of St. Peters Basilica, will wear one of the three garments that Raniero Mancinelli has on the table in his small workshop on Via Borgo Pio in Rome, just a stones throw from the Vatican. This 86-year-old tailor, who refuses to retire, is currently working at a frantic pace to make the next pontiffs white robe. He is preparing it, as tradition dictates, in three different sizes for practical reasons: the build of Franciss successor is unknown.

The new pope will wear the one that fits him best, says Mancinelli, with the measuring tape hanging around his neck, as he paces back and forth between the sewing workshop, which connects to the shop that sells all kinds of religious accessories and attire.

Just a few days before the conclave, the small Mancinelli Clergy tailors shop is packed. Cardinals, priests in need of a new Roman collar, tourists looking for souvenirs, Jubilee pilgrims, and a stream of journalists and photographers gather around the counter.

Mancinelli greets everyone with kindness and a smile. Between one client and the next, and between one interview and another, he returns to the workshop and stitches the last half-finished habit.

If you let me finish it, it will be ready in time, he jokes as he continues finishing a hem of this immaculate, lightweight wool fabric, the same one he used to dress Pope Francis. Everything is done by hand, he points out.

He explains that, under normal conditions, making a papal cassock takes him an average of five or six days. The first one for each pope is made blind because the wearers tastes are not yet known. The following ones try to adapt to the preferences of each pontiff, as much as possible, especially regarding the type of fabric, since the esthetics hardly change.

Benedict XVI asked us for thicker fabrics because he was sensitive to the cold, and he liked precious wools and silks; Francis, on the other hand, preferred lighter, simpler, and less expensive fabrics, the tailor reveals.

He takes a look at last weeks newspaper on his table, announcing Franciss death. The cassock hes wearing in this photo is mine; I recognized it immediately because of the small details around the buttons, says Mancinelli, who founded this business in 1962 and began dressing popes during the pontificate of John Paul II.

Tailor Raniero Mancinelli at the counter of his shop near Vatican City. Massimiliano Minocri

Mancinelli studied at a Salesian school as a child, where he learned the ecclesiastical tradition, which leaves little room for innovation, even in the cutting and tailoring of clerical vestments. He has been sewing for the clergy for 70 years and has no thought of retirement. At first, he made the vestments of priests, who later became bishops and later cardinals, spreading the virtues of his garments by word of mouth until his fame reached the ears of a pope.

On the wall of his workshop hangs a photo of him shaking Franciss hand, while they both smile. He and the Argentine pontiff maintained a very cordial relationship. He always smiled at me; he seemed more like a brother than a pope, he recalls. And he emphasizes how difficult it was to sell him anything beyond the basics. I tried to convince him, in vain, to at least wear white or light-colored pants under his cassock in the summer. I could make them for him with a light fabric, but there was no way; he always wore his black ones, he notes.

The bustle of his small shop has been constant recently. Two employees are sewing the red buttons on a black cassock for a cardinal at one side of the counter, while another is serving a customer and explaining how to wash the stole hes just bought. Another employee is on the phone: I have to hang up, its busy here, she apologizes. An Indian tourist enters the shop and asks to take a photo with the tailor, whom he saw on YouTube. A prelate stops by to pick up a sash he ordered last week, and tries on several amaranth-red skullcaps until he finds his size.

One of the many cardinals passing through Mancinellis shop could be the new pontiff. He recounts, laughing and with an enigmatic air: A cardinal came to me a few days ago to ask me for a red cassock, which is what cardinals wear, and I told him: Your Eminence, I wont make it red, because if after the conclave you have to change color and wear white, what are you going to do with it? He laughed and said, No, no, no, but he accepted my advice. Who knows?

Raniero Mancinelli holds a collar at his store on Via Borgo Pio in Rome, near Vatican City. Massimiliano Minocri Raniero Mancinelli shows a front page of the newspaper 'L'Osservatore Romano' with a photo of Pope Francis, in which he recognizes the papal cassock as one of his works. Massimiliano Minocri Two of the seamstresses at the Mancinelli tailor shop work on a black talar habit for a cardinal. Massimiliano Minocri Mancinelli founded his business in 1962. Today his store is frequented by cardinals, priests, tourists and journalists. Massimiliano Minocri Raniero Mancinelli has been sewing for the clergy for 70 years and is not thinking about retirement. Massimiliano Minocri The Mancinelli tailor shop has been making cassocks and chasubles for priests, cardinals and popes for decades. Massimiliano Minocri Detail of a rack at the Mancinelli tailor's shop in Via Borgo Pio in the Italian capital. Massimiliano Minocri Antonio Arellano, founder of the Arellano shoe shop in Via Borgo Pio in Rome. Massimiliano Minocri Antonio Arellano, who made shoes for John Paul II and Benedict XVI, wrote a book entitled 'The Pope's Shoemaker,' which he sells in his store. Massimiliano Minocri Daniel Arellano, Antonio's son, has carried on the family tradition and has his own shoe shop, where he used to repair Pope Francis' orthopedic shoes. Massimiliano Minocri

The golden mile of clerical fashion

Romes Via Borgo Pio and its surroundings form a sort of golden mile for clerical fashion in the Italian capital. Its also home to the workshop of the man known as the shoemaker of the popes. Antonio Arellano, originally from Trujillo (Peru), has been in Italy for over three decades. In his small artisan shoe shop, he made John Paul IIs shoes and Benedict XVIs famous red loafers. The German pontiff was a regular customer, even during his time as Pope Emeritus, following his resignation in 2013, explains the artisan, proudly showing a photo of the pontiffs funeral chapel in which Arellanos signature can be seen on the sole of the deceaseds shoes.

On the walls of his shop are newspaper clippings and numerous photos with Ratzinger. In one corner are stacked several copies of the book he himself wrote in 2019, entitled The Popes Shoemaker, in which he recounts his life, how he arrived in Italy, how he built a clientele among priests, bishops and nuns along the walls of the Vatican and how he became the shoemaker to two popes.

He remembers every detail of his illustrious clients. John Paul II liked burgundy shoes, with pointed toes like these, he recalls, showing off a pair. He knew Benedict XVI from his time as a cardinal; he had his measurements noted, and as pope, he ordered several red shoes. He was very polite, very calm. He came here because I was the only shoemaker in this area, he explains behind the counter, surrounded by shoes, belts, and other leather goods, while in the back room, his nephew works with shoe lasts and soles.

His son, Daniel Arellano, owns another shoe store, which he opened 17 years ago, also a short walk from the Vatican, but on the other side of St. Peters Square. He learned the trade from his father and repeatedly repaired Pope Franciss briefcase and his orthopedic shoes, made by his trusted shoemaker in Argentina.

They were comfortable, sanitary because he had some difficulty walking, black, simple, with simple laces. He brought them to replace the rubber in the sole or to have them polished, he notes in his shop. He adds: He took great care of his belongings, both his briefcase and his shoes. He liked to repair them when they were very worn rather than buying new ones. He brought his shoes from Argentina as a cardinal and continued to wear them throughout his pontificate. He had two models, but they were very similar.

Antonio Arellano, in the repair area of his artisanal shoe shop, Arellano, which made shoes for Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI. Massimiliano Minocri

Francis was buried in a simple coffin with his pair of worn-out shoes, which had accompanied him for years and which were also repaired by Daniel Arellano. In his workshop, Daniel also lovingly repairs all kinds of leather goods, such as luxury handbags from Fendi and Louis Vuitton. Its nice that people continue to repair things. I hope the next pope will send a message in this direction, as Francis did. The throwaway culture and so much consumerism is not something to be admired, he reflects.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV)  Over the last dozen years or so, Honor-Flight Syracuse has taken nearly 1,600 military veterans to Washington, D.C. as a way to thank them for their service.

NewsChannel 9s Tim Fox was on the latest mission to capture the moments that the veterans say they will remember for the rest of their lives.

Honor Flight Syracuse Mission 22 was planned with military precision, moving 82 veterans from Central and Northern New York and the Mohawk Valley around some of the most sacred monuments in the Nations capital.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some twelve hours after they took off from Hancock Airport, theyre back. Mission accomplished. But not without one more chance for Central New Yorkers by the thousands to say thank you for all youve done for our country.

When I came home in 70, we had to sneak home. Nobody cared. Nobody wanted to know about you. I appreciate everything here today that everyones done for me, Ron Cihocki, an army veteran from West Leyden, said.

To watch the full journey captured by Tim Fox on Honor Flight Syracuse Mission 22, watch the video in the 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 WSYR.
President Donald Trump offered to serve as a mediator between India and Pakistan after their respective armed forces exchanged volleys of conventional weapons in an escalation of a long-running conflict that has raised the chance of escalation by the two nuclear-armed states.

Trump told reporters Wednesday in the Oval Office during a swearing-in ceremony for the new American ambassador to China David Purdue, that the latest skirmish has been so terrible and expressed confidence in his own ability to settle the dispute based on the fact that he has good personal relations with both nations.

My position is I get along with both. I know both very well, and I want to see them work it out. I want to see them stop, and hopefully they can stop now, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The presidents comments came less than a day after Indian jets conducted airstrikes into Pakistani territory in retaliation for last months deadly terror attack by militants in Kashmir, the disputed border region controlled by India.

President Donald Trump speaks to reporters after David Perdue was sworn in as U.S. Ambassador to China. During his discussion he addressed the ongoing Palestine-India conflict. (AP)

Pakistani officials said at least 21 died in the airstrikes, just four fewer than were killed in the Kashmir attack that was carried out by militants armed with rifles. The Indian government blames Islamabad for allegedly supporting insurgent movements in the heavily-militarized border region.

Trump expressed hope the Indian airstrikes would serve to end this latest round of skirmishing between the countries, which fought limited wars in 1947 and 1965.

They've gotten tit for tat, so hopefully they can stop now ... we get along with both the countries very well, good relationships with both. And I want to see it stop. And if I can do anything to help, I will, I will be there, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The recent hostilities between India and Pakistan have raised the once-unthinkable possibility of two nuclear-armed states exchanging fire with thermonuclear weapons.

Neither country is a signatory to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, and India has been a declared nuclear power since 1974 when it detonated its first nuclear weapons test.

Pakistans government had begun developing nuclear weapons two years earlier after losing control of Bangladesh (formerly East Pakistan) in a civil war. That effort finally bore fruit in 1998 when Pakistan detonated five underground nuclear tests in response to an Indian nuclear weapons test several weeks earlier.
Day 11 of Karen Reads murder retrial focused primarily on Jennifer McCabes Google search in the early morning hours of January 29th, following the death of Boston Police officer John OKeefe.

It was a lengthy day of testimony for jurors.

The morning began with Massachusetts State Trooper Connor Keefe showing the jury key evidence collected by the SERT time off the lawn of 34 Fairview Road in Canton. His body was found on the front lawn in the early morning hours of January 29th, 2022.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He showed a black Nike sneaker, red taillight pieces, and clear plastic taillight pieces.

Afterwards, digital forensic expert Jessica Hyde took the stand.

She analyzed Jen McCabes Google search from the early morning of January 29th after OKeefes death.

She was questioned first by special prosecutor Hank Brennan.

He asked, Is there any danger for an untrained eye to rely simply on the software when looking at a search like this? How long two died in the cold and seeing the 2:27 am timestamp?

Hyde replied, Absolutely... that timestamp actually means either the time that that tab was backgrounded, or if its the first time the tab has been opened when it was opened.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She claimed Wednesday to a reasonable degree of certainty, her findings show Jennifer McCabes google search January 29th was made at 6:24 am and not 2:27 am.

The defenses Robert Alessi pushed back on her findings outlined in reports and previous testimony.

Alessi, referencing a 2023 report, asked You said the definitive reason as to why the timestamp is listed as 2:27:40 am is unknown.

Hyde added, I do use the word.

The prosecution also played a clip of an interview Karen Read gave to ID Docuseries in April of 2024.

In the video, she says, Jen McCabe, its me or her. Either Im going down, Jen, or you are.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Jurors were dismissed moments after the video was played.

Outside court, Read was asked about the video from the prosecution.

Youll see, she said. Their case is almost over. Youll see.

Day 12 of the trial continues tomorrow at 9 a.m. at Norfolk Superior Court.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
Relatives of Israeli hostages have reacted with dismay to US President Donald Trump's announcement that three more of the people held in Gaza have died.

Cherut Nimrodi, the mother of a soldier kidnapped in the Gaza Strip, told the Israeli news portal ynet that she was concerned that information was being withheld from the families.

She is from one of three families whose relatives are being held hostage and whose fate remains unclear, Nimrodi said. She added that there has been no sign of life from her son since he was kidnapped on October 7, 2023.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump made the announcement during a White House event on Tuesday, reducing the number of known surviving captives to 21, and contradicting the figure provided by the Israeli authorities.

Nimrodi said she was surprised that Trump had stated so categorically that three hostages had been killed. "Where did he get this information?" she asked.

She noted that the US president often makes "statements that are not fully verified," but said she was still very concerned.

The Israeli government's official position is that 24 hostages are still alive and that Hamas-allied groups are holding the bodies of another 35 people. However, Sara Netanyahu, the prime minister's wife, recently said there were probably fewer.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum issued a statement after Trump's comments, calling on the Israeli government to provide it with any new information. It also demanded an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza war and the release of all hostages.
President Donald Trumps big beautiful bill is running into a wall in the sharply divided House Republican conference, with tensions spiking over Speaker Mike Johnsons handling of the partys biggest sticking point: overhauling Medicaid.

As Johnson presses for a House vote before Memorial Day, the battlelines are becoming more pronounced, with Republicans in swing districts saying the sweeping bill cant slash social safety net benefits while GOP hardliners are demanding trillions more in spending cuts  far beyond what many centrist members are willing to swallow.

Those frustrations emerged in a two-hour meeting in Johnsons leadership suite on Tuesday night, in which the speaker huddled with roughly a dozen GOP centrists who have refused to back any Medicaid changes that could hurt eligible Americans who rely on the program.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Inside the room, Johnson made one more attempt to sell those members on a contentious plan  backed by the hard-right House Freedom Caucus and others  to sharply reduce Medicaid payments to states that expanded the program under Obamacare, according to two people in the room. His push drew a rebuke from multiple centrists in the room, who believed that idea was already off the table, the people said.

We laid down the law, one Republican member who had attended the meeting said of the firm position many members took.

Johnson and his leadership team insist that, in the end, GOP members will not be willing to stand in the way of Trump, who has said the actions taken in the next phase of his presidency will be charted through Capitol Hill. But the intraparty sparring between the two vastly disparate factions of Johnsons conference raises the question of whether he can meet his own deadline to pass the package out of the House this month  with perhaps his own political survival on the line.

On Tuesday, some of those lawmakers also delivered a cautionary note to Johnson: They did not want to vote for any bill that Trump hadnt endorsed, eager to avoid a repeat of 2017 when the president called the House GOPs health care plan mean after theyd already passed it. Less than a year later, Republicans lost the chamber in the midterms.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I dont want to be mean, Rep. Andrew Garbarino, a Republican from a New York swing district, told CNN on Wednesday. And I think any time it looks like were actually hurting people, thats gonna piss off the American population. And if you piss them off, theyre probably not going to vote for you.

The House cannot be its own worst enemy, said Rep. Jeff Van Drew of New Jersey, one of the moderates in the meeting. We have to work in conjunction with the president.

With their slim GOP majority, Johnson and his team have no choice but to mollify their centrist wing to pass the massive package along party lines. The bill would include new immigration restrictions, a massive increase in defense and border security spending and a two-year extension of the national debt limit. But the most divisive parts of the proposal involve the steep spending cuts the party is seeking on top of a multi-trillion-dollar overhaul of the tax code.

Many of those Republicans are staunchly opposed to the partys push to use Trumps agenda to chop spending on programs like Medicaid and food stamps  something that many of the Houses ultraconservatives are demanding. And those GOP hardliners are threatening not to support any plan without those big cuts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Added to their problems: hard-right Republicans are demanding cuts well above $1.5 trillion  even as the centrist members are signaling such an approach would cost their support and are willing to see those cuts greatly reduced.

One visibly frustrated hardliner, GOP Rep. Chip Roy of Texas, told CNN that Republicans would fail if they dont find enough spending cuts to help jumpstart the economy.

My colleagues, who do not want to address that, are burying their head in the sand and already trying to worry about elections next year, when the best way to win elections is to actually deliver, said Roy, who can use his leverage as a member of a pair of key House panels to demand his own changes to the final bill.

Roy then offered this blunt warning: Ive got my own set of red lines Im happy to start putting out there if they want me to.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rep. Rich McCormick added he absolutely would vote against the presidents agenda if it didnt include at least $1.5 trillion in cuts, the goal outlined in the GOPs budget blueprint. And McCormick was one of more than two dozen Republicans who signed onto a letter to Johnson on Wednesday that specifically called for at least $2 trillion in cuts.

We made a promise to the people, the Georgia Republican said. The speaker made a promise to the people. The president made a promise to the people.

A long-simmering rift between centrists and hardliners

The rift between the GOPs centrist wing and its hardliners has been simmering long before Trump took office in January, fueled by years in a razor-thin majority. But those same Republicans are now under fierce pressure to deliver Trumps high-stakes tax plan while satisfying demands that, at times, seem incompatible.

Ultraconservatives, for instance, want to cut as much as $5 trillion to pay for the full cost of Trumps tax cuts. But others in the party, including those from battleground seats, believe they wont even reach the partys stated goal of $1.5 trillion in cuts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If we dont [agree on $1.5 trillion in cuts], we should lower the number, said Rep. Nick LaLota, a swing-district New York Republican. We should do something that is compassionate yet reasonable to put our great country in a better trajectory.

Some have said that GOP leadership had privately assured them  in conversations before they voted for that budget resolution  that the spending target was simply a goal and not a necessity.

Leadership is telling everyone what they want to hear to get to the one-yard line, a frustrated GOP lawmaker told CNN on the condition of anonymity to discuss intraparty dynamics.

Yet some of those same more moderate Republicans  namely from New York and California  are pushing for an increase of the $10,000 cap on state and local tax deductions, known as SALT, a costly proposal that has drawn the ire of hardliners.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We have to address Medicaid, Roy told CNN on Wednesday. My colleagues, who are saying that they wont touch it are the same colleagues, by the way, who want their SALT caps increased. Somebody come back and show me your basic math.

Leadership and centrists did make some progress at the Tuesday meeting: They agreed on work requirements for Medicaid beneficiaries, though they havent yet decided what age requirement to implement, according to a person in the room. They also agreed on more frequent eligibility checks to ensure only program-qualified people are accessing it and not to go after hospital funding, the person said.

But some of those members are still seeking assurances that Trump and the Senate GOP also back their plans  especially on Medicaid. One member told CNN that if House GOP leaders wont hold formal talks with their Senate counterparts on the subject, the moderates themselves are willing to sit down with senators whove previously expressed opposition to such cuts.

Trump met with Johnson, Senate Majority Leader John Thune and other key GOP committee leaders to discuss tax policy at the White House on Wednesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Johnson, returning from the White House, said any changes limiting Medicaid would affect a very small number of people but that overhauling federal contributions to state-run Medicaid programs, known as the FMAP, is off the table.

Publicly, the president has remained mostly silent on the policy details as Republicans have worked behind the scenes to write his bill. But Republicans across the conference believe the only way it will pass is if Trump takes sides publicly.

Rep. Eric Burlison, another GOP hardliner, told CNN that he will refuse to support any bill that adds to the deficit in any way  and that must include the cost of Trumps tax cuts. That means the spending cuts would have to equal roughly $5 trillion  far beyond the scope of what is under discussion.

Where my redline is is that Im not going to be a part of causing the deficit to be any worse than it is today, that that gap and how much were adding to the national debt, I cannot live with myself if I  exacerbate that and make that worse, Burlison said. They need to find some way to offset the tax cuts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He added: Im not looking to see funny math.

Some Senate Republicans, meanwhile, are also watching with concern as House GOP centrists look to narrow down the size of the spending cuts.

I think you might see the Senate come up with more spending cuts, said Sen. John Cornyn, emerging from the Senate GOPs policy retreat Wednesday. This is a once in a generation opportunity to get our fiscal house in better shape.

CNNs Morgan Rimmer, Aileen Graef, Alison Main and Casey Riddle contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
House Republicans voted Wednesday to adopt a provision in their budget reconciliation package that would allow for the sale of public land in Nevada and Utah.

GOP Reps. Mark Amodei (Nev.) and Celeste Maloy (Utah) funneled the provision through a House Natural Resources Committee markup that seeks to boost fossil fuel production and mining on federal land.

Nevada population centers are all encumbered by federal land that cant meet their housing and development needs without disposal of federal lands. Unlike most other states, Nevadans rely on Congress to make these lands available, Amodei said during the markup.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Maloy said federal land status has restricted input from local government and made it harder to address Utahs housing demand. She urged the committee to vote in favor of selling the land to create more local control over transportation, development and harnessing natural resources.

Chairman, the underlying bill before this committee today generates revenue from numerous federal assets, from oil and gas sale leases for both onshore and offshore to other federal fees to be paid, all of which will bring revenue to the Treasury for debt and deficit reduction, she said.

Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum announced in March plans to identify federal lands where affordable housing could be built.

However, Democrats pushed back on the 33-page last minute amendment, citing concerns about representation for local residents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Amodei does not represent Clark County, where the proposal suggests public land would be sold in Nevada.

I would think at a minimum, Mr. Amodei, that you would do your colleagues in Nevada the courtesy of at least striking that language regarding Clark County, engage with your three other colleagues before this gets to the floor, and then have a conversation with them, but to basically say to them that they have no say as to what happens with respect to land conveyances in their congressional districts, I think the slippery slope, said Rep. Joe Neguse (D-Colo.), ranking member of the subcommittee on federal land.

Nevada Democratic Reps. Steven Horsford, Susie Lee and Dina Titus were not consulted on the amendment prior to the vote and were informed of the new measure via text, according to Neguse.

The legislation ultimately passed in a 26-17 vote, with Rep. Adam Gray (D-Calif.) casting his ballot alongside Republicans.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Four housekeepers who worked for Smokey Robinson have filed a civil lawsuit accusing the Motown legend of rape and sexual assault, and claim his wife knew exactly what was happening but never stepped in to stop it.

The women, identified as Jane Does 1-4 in court filings reviewed by The Independent, allege, variously, that Robinson, 85, took advantage of them in areas of his Southern California residence where closed-circuit cameras werent located, refused to wear a condom, and reveled in humiliating them.

Further, according to the foursomes complaint, Robinson shorted them on wages and never permitted them rest periods or lunch breaks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Robinsons agent and publicist did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Tuesday.

Robinson (right) is a Motown legend. He has now been accused of raping four of his former housekeepers (Getty)

Jane Doe 1 began working for Smokey and Frances Robinson on weekends at their Chatsworth home in January 2023, according to the bombshell complaint, which was filed May 6 in Los Angeles County Superior Court. The first sexual assault occurred that March, when Robinson  as he allegedly did on a typical Saturday  would rush home after taking his wife to the nail salon, the complaint states.

Upon returning home Robinson would call [Jane Doe 1] into his blue bedroom, lock the door and escort their dog Shilo out of the room, the complaint goes on.

Robinson, clad only in his underwear, would then place a towel on the bed so as not to soil the bed linens, in preparation for what was about to occur, the complaint contends. Robinson would then penetrate Jane Doe 1, without protection, while casually ignoring her protestations, the complaint continues.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It says Robinson assaulted Jane Doe 1 at least seven times over 13 months, until she was finally forced to quit. The woman was too scared to tell police about Robinson for fear of losing her livelihood, shame and embarrassment, and the possible adverse effect on her immigration status, the complaint states.

Defendant Frances Robinson failed to take the appropriate corrective action to prevent Defendant Smokey Robinsons deviant misconduct against JD1, despite having full knowledge of his prior acts of sexual misconduct, having settled cases with other women that suffered and experienced similar sexual assaults perpetuated by him, it says.

Robinson refused to use protection, according to four former housekeepers who claim the singer raped them for years. (Getty)

Jane Doe 2 worked for the Robinsons from 2014 through 2020, and says she was first assaulted by Smokey two years into her tenure.

Her allegations almost exactly mirror those leveled by Jane Doe 1, and the complaint says Robinsons brutal sexual advances were constant and even predictable throughout her employment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When she and Robinson were alone in his house, he would text message her, asking her to meet him at areas in their Chatsworth residence where closed-circuit cameras werent located, the complaint asserts. The assaults would then commence, according to the complaint.

Defendant Smokey Robinson sexually assaulted her in this manner on at least twenty-three different occasions, the complaint alleges, adding that Robinson threatened Jane Doe 2 that if she refused his demands, he would make Defendant Frances Robinson be mean to her, which she was very capable of being.

Robinson, seen here at Aretha Franklin's funeral in 2018, has not responded publicly to the allegations (Getty)

Jane Doe 3 endured the same alleged abuse between 2012 and 2024, when she finally quit, according to the complaint.

Robinson raped Jane Doe 3 at least twenty times, the complaint alleges. On one occasion, when Jane Doe 3 resisted Robinson, he offered her $500 to let him pleasure her  an offer she refused, the complaint says.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For Jane Doe 4, the situation was much the same, the complaint states. It says she began working for the Robinsons in 2006 as a housekeeper, eventually also serving as Francess personal assistant, cook, and hairdresser. The first assault took place the following year at Robinsons Las Vegas home, and continued there and other places, such as a temporary residence Robinson had in Bell Canyon, according to the complaint.

Defendant Smokey Robinson would often create a situation or seize the opportunity where he would be alone with JD4 at their Chatsworth residence, the complaint states.

His sexual harassment and assaults continued to the very day she decided to resign her employment, it concludes.

The four women are seeking at least $450 million in damages.
The Sistine Chapel, ready for the conclave, with the desks of each cardinal already installed under Michelangelo's frescoes, on Tuesday.

What happens in a conclave is not only secret  though more or less everything eventually becomes known  but also deeply mysterious. Votes shift and fluctuate until they finally converge on a single name, which is often not among the initial favorites. Alongside the influence of the Holy Spirit, far more earthly factors come into play  patterns that tend to repeat themselves.

To understand how these peculiar dynamics work, and to get a sense of what might unfold starting this Wednesday in the election of Francis successor, its helpful to look at what happened in the last 10 conclaves, drawing on the work of scholars Giancarlo Zizola and Alberto Melloni. These span from the 20th century to the present day.

Announcement of the election of Pope Pius X from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica. DEA / BIBLIOTECA AMBROSIANA (De Agostini via Getty Images)

1903: Pius X

This conclave is famous because it was the last time a foreign power exercised a political veto  a right that, until then, had been held by the most powerful Catholic nations in Europe. On the very day of Leo XIIIs death, the Austro-Hungarian foreign minister sent a telegram to his ambassador to the Holy See, instructing him to use exclusive authority, if necessary, to block the Italian Cardinal Mariano Rampolla, who was seen as hostile to Austrian interests.

The conclave, which required seven votes, began with 62 cardinals, making 42 the two-thirds majority needed for election. Who led in the first vote? Rampolla, with 24 votes. Giuseppe Sarto  who would eventually be elected and take the name Pius X  received only five. The election soon turned into a standoff between the two, and the Austrian cardinals, tasked with exercising the veto if needed, feared Rampolla might prevail. But they hesitated to invoke it  by then, it was already seen as anachronistic.

Eventually, Austrian Cardinal Jan Puzyna rose to speak and read the formal declaration of the veto, but he spoke so softly that almost no one heard him. When he was asked to repeat it, the chamber erupted in outrage. Its unclear whether the veto had any real effect, as Rampolla had already reached his peak in support. In any case, Sarto was reluctant to accept the papacy and had to be persuaded. One of his first acts as pope was to reform the conclave rules and abolish the right of veto altogether.

Portrait of Pope Benedict XV. HUM Images (HUM Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

1914: Benedict XV

Pius X died on August 20, 1914, the very day Germany invaded Belgium, marking the start of World War I. The timing shaped the conclave in profound ways: not only did the 57 cardinals struggle to reach Rome, but the priority was to elect a pope unaligned with any of the warring nations. Italy, at the time, was still neutral.

The conclave lasted four days a required majority of 38 votes. The pendulum effect  so typical from one papacy to the next  was in full swing. Giacomo della Chiesa, who would take the name Benedict XV, represented a more liberal shift and something of a correction for the losers of the previous conclave. He began tied with Cardinal Maffi, each with 12 votes. His momentum briefly faltered after the fourth ballot when his opponents redirected their support to Cardinal Serafini. But Della Chiesa steadily gained ground and eventually hit the exact threshold of 38 votes on the tenth ballot.

The margin was so narrow that the Roman Curia faction, skeptical of the outcome, demanded confirmation that he hadnt voted for himself  a rule still in place at the time but now obsolete. Because each cardinal marked his ballot with a secret personal symbol, it was possible to verify his vote. It was confirmed that Della Chiesa had voted for someone else and he was elected.

Announcement of the election of Pope Pius XI. Bettmann (Bettmann Archive)

1922: Pius XI

It was the longest and most hotly contested conclave, lasting five days and requiring 14 ballots. Fifty-three cardinals participated, with the necessary majority set at 36 votes  though the American cardinals were unable to arrive in time by boat, as only 10 days were allowed for travel to Rome.

The clash during this conclave was a struggle between reverting to a more conservative Church, as led by Pius X, or continuing the openness promoted by Benedict XV. The election was repeatedly blocked, with a range of candidates considered, including a non-Italian, Dutch Cardinal Van Rossum.

In fact, the eventual winner, Achille Ratti, only received five votes in the first ballot  he was the fourth or fifth choice. His support didnt gain momentum until the ninth ballot, but from there, his votes steadily increased.

The conservative bloc and the Curia both opposed each others candidate, leading to several attempts to find a suitable compromise. Eventually, they settled on a third candidate, which is often the outcome of many conclaves.

According to later accounts, the conservative faction backed Ratti after securing a promise that the opposing candidate, Cardinal Pietro Gasparri  who was favored by the other side  would not remain in office as Secretary of State.

Such political maneuvering is officially prohibited and carries the risk of excommunication. However, Gasparri, the victim of these tactics, later wrote in his memoirs that at least two of the conclaves key strategists engaged in these practices. Despite this, Gasparri went on to serve as Secretary of State for another eight years.

Pope Pius XII, surrounded by cardinals, papal guards and his chamberlain. Keystone-France (Gamma-Keystone via Getty Images)

1939: Pius XII

This conclave was the quickest of the contemporary era and one of the most anticipated. It required only three ballots, as the frontrunner, Secretary of State Eugenio Pacelli, was the clear favorite, and the world situation was dire, with World War II looming.

Pacelli had served as nuncio to Germany, lived in the United States, and had effectively led the Vatican during the final years of Pope Pius XI, when the pope was ill. Sixty-three cardinals gathered in Rome, waiting 18 days for their colleagues from the United States to arrive. This marked the first time all the existing cardinals could participate in a conclave.

The Curia, to which Pacelli belonged, controlled 44% of the vote. He secured more than 30 votes on the first ballot, quickly gaining momentum, while his opponents were divided. One of them, Cardinal Maglione, transferred his votes to Pacelli and later became his Secretary of State.

The newly elected Pope John XXIII gives his blessing from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica after the conclave. ullstein bild Dtl. (ullstein bild via Getty Images)

1958: John XXIII

After a long papacy that marked the end of an era in a rapidly changing world, the Church found itself disoriented. It wanted a transitional pope a recurring type of pontiff when the cardinals were uncertain of the direction to take. This was a leader who would serve for a short time while the situation became clearer. To fulfill this role, the chosen pope had to be quite elderly, and Angelo Roncalli, elected as Pope John XXIII, was 77 years old.

The conclave lasted four days and involved 11 ballots, with 51 electors and a majority requirement of 34. The process dragged on because the opposition to Roncalli, the so-called Roman party of the Curia, was divided and couldnt agree on a single candidate. One of the challengers was the Armenian Pietro Agagianian, who had long been in the Curia for years, but the paradox was that the non-Italians didnt want a Vatican insider.

John XXIII, in the end, served only five years, but despite the brevity of his papacy, he revolutionized the Church by convening the Second Vatican Council, a landmark moment of openness and renewal. He became the first truly beloved and popular pope of the modern era.

Portrait of Pope Paul VI. Bettmann (Bettmann Archive)

1963: Paul VI

The Second Vatican Council was left unfinished when John XXIII died, and the subsequent conclave was split between those wanting to continue his reforms and those seeking to reverse them  the same situation seen today. By this time, the conclave had grown to 80 cardinals, with a required majority of 54 votes. It also marked the lowest percentage of Italians in the College of Cardinals up to that point  only 35%.

The election  over six ballots  was tense, with two blocs locked in a standoff, refusing to budge. Montini, who would later become Paul VI, was supported by the pro-council faction but opposed by the conservatives and the Curia. He had two main rivals in the first round of voting, and one of them transferred his votes to him in the third round. Despite this, he still fell short of a majority, leading to a deadlock.

According to later accounts, the impasse was broken by an unusual intervention from Cardinal Gustavo Testa, a close friend and collaborator of John XXIII. Testa publicly reprimanded some members of the conservative faction for their intransigence, urging them to compromise for the good of the Church. This created a tense atmosphere, with heated exchanges of reproach. In the end, Testas intervention had its effect, and Montini secured a narrow majority.

Pope John Paul I after the conclave. Universal Images Group North America LLC / Alamy Stock Photo (Alamy Stock Photo)

1978: John Paul I

It was the first conclave attended by more than 100 cardinals  111, to be exact, requiring a majority of 75 votes. It began on August 25 and became infamous for the unbearable heat of Rome. The Vatican building, poorly equipped to handle such a large group, forced the cardinals to sleep on cots around the Sistine Chapel and in the corridors, with only a jug of water nearby and few bathrooms available. This grueling experience was one of the reasons why John Paul II later built the current residence at Santa Marta.

Opening the windows was strictly prohibited to maintain the secrecy of the conclave, but in desperation, one cardinal even broke a window to get some fresh air.

The voting began with scattered results, and it looked like it would be a long conclave. However, Albino Luciani, who was eventually elected as John Paul I, quickly emerged as one of the frontrunners. From the third ballot onward, he rapidly gained support and secured an overwhelming majority of more than 100 votes. Despite his success, Luciani appeared distressed and struggled to accept the role, according to those who witnessed the proceedings. Tragically, he passed away just 33 days later. He chose the name John Paul I as a tribute to his two immediate predecessors, signaling his intention to follow in their footsteps.

Official portrait of Pope John Paul II. Bettmann (Bettmann Archive)

1978: John Paul II

In the extraordinary year of two conclaves, the cardinals convened once more in the Sistine Chapel in October. Cardinal Siri, one of the leading candidates during the election of John Paul I, was given a second chance and emerged as the top conservative contender. However, a pivotal misstep would go down in history as potentially costing him the papacy: he gave an interview under the condition that it would only be published once the cardinals were already inside the conclave. Unfortunately, the interview was made public the day the cardinals entered, and everyone was able to read with alarm some of his opinions, which were too radical for the more moderate voters.

Even so, the conclave was a contest between Siri and Benelli, who each had around 30 votes. Many scattered votes remained, including five for a certain Polish cardinal called Karol Wojtyla. After the fourth ballot, the standoff remained. Siri appeared to have reached his ceiling: he was just four or five votes short of a majority, but was unable to attract additional support. That night, Wojtylas candidacy began to solidify, and by the next day, it rapidly gained momentum.

Pope Benedict XVI, Joseph Ratzinger, after being elected in the conclave. Mario Tama (Getty Images)

2005: Benedict XVI

After 27 years of John Paul IIs pontificate, with uncertainty surrounding the future direction of the Church, the clearest candidate for succession was his close ally, German Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger. He offered doctrinal certainty and knowledge of the Curia. The conclave was swift, lasting only four votes, and Argentine Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio emerged as his main rival.

There are differing accounts of what transpired. Bergoglio himself, after becoming pope, shared his version of events, stating that his name was used to block Ratzingers election, but he was aware of a shadow candidate waiting behind him. Bergoglio refused to play along with this maneuver and made it clear that he did not want to be part of that strategy, instead casting his votes in favor of Ratzinger.

Other accounts, however, suggest that it was Cardinal Carlo Maria Martini, a prominent leader of the progressive camp and also a Jesuit, who did not have a good relationship with Bergoglio, who took an active role in directing votes toward Ratzinger. Martini reportedly moved between the tables during mealtimes, ensuring that the votes were passed on to Ratzinger.

Pope Francis waves from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica after his election on March 13, 2013. Peter Macdiarmid (Getty Images)

2013: Francis

In the last conclave, once again with 115 electors, Bergoglio entered as a favorite, having been considered a strong contender in the previous election. However, his momentum seemed to wane in the days leading up to the conclave. The Italian media had rallied around Cardinal Angelo Scola, a disciple of Ratzinger, who was widely regarded as the frontrunner and practically seen as the next pope. In fact, the Italian Episcopal Conference even issued a congratulatory message for Scola after the fumata blanca (white smoke) was seen, mistakenly believing he had been elected.

However, in the first ballot, which revealed the real support after weeks of speculation, Scola received about 25 votes (compared to about 12 for Bergoglio), and it became clear that he did not have the massive support that had been assumed. Moreover, his support didnt rise from there, and the votes gradually shifted toward Bergoglio, who was elected on the fifth ballot.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
WINOOSKI, Vt (ABC22/FOX44)  UVM health network and Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity are teaming up to show the connection between housing and healthcare in Vermont communities.

A soon-to-be-completed three family home on Hall st. in Winooski will help house Vermonts most vulnerable, and its all thanks to a partnership between the two groups.

Housing is a key aspect of our patient wellness, says Maureen Leahy, volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and director of network department psychiatry at UVM Medical Center.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She says patients who have secure housing have a significantly better ability to manage wellness and handle illness.

Our contribution to housing in our local communities is a direct contribution to our patients wellness, says Leahy.

Once complete, volunteer manager Caitlyn Conibear says the energy efficient units will house three partner families.

Theyll get to come in, see what it takes to build a home, and then live in a new, healthy home, Conibear explains.

The project is slated to wrap up by mid-June.

Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity will host more of what theyve dubbed Wellness Builds throughout the summer and into the fall  and theyre inviting health network employees to join them in getting their hands dirty.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Weve had these homes and wed love to put Vermont families in them who need a nice, healthy home.

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 ABC22 & FOX44.
Yemen's Houthi rebels have agreed to a ceasefire with the United States, and vowed to adhere to the agreement, if Washington does the same, the group's spokesman has said.

"The US interfered to support the Israeli entity by attacking Yemen. So, if they stopped their aggression, we will stop responding," Houthi spokesman Mohamed Abdel-Salam told al-Masirah TV late Tuesday.

"If [the US] does not abide by the agreement in any way, the response will be fatal," he added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said that talks with mediator Oman have been going on for weeks before the announcement.

Oman said that both parties had agreed to end hostilities, including strikes on US vessels in the Red Sea.

Abdel-Salam said that Houthi support for Gaza will continue and that any deal with the US will not change the rebel group's stance towards Israel.

Since October 2023, Houthi militants have repeatedly attacked military and civilian vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, saying their campaign is retaliation for Israeli military operations in the Gaza Strip.

The escalation has severely disrupted global shipping, forcing many carriers to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope.
The rebel militia that has brought Western-based Red Sea shipping to a halt said it has not agreed to cease attacks on vessels transiting the Middle East trade route.

The statements Tuesday by Yemens Houthi militia contradicted comments by President Donald Trump, who said during a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at the White House that they didnt want to fight anymore. They have capitulated, but more importantly, we will take their word. They say they will not be blowing up ships anymore.

The Houthis, who have attacked shipping they claim is linked to Israel since late 2023, dismissed Trumps assertions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Abdulsalam confirmed that the U.S. had sent messages through Oman asking Yemen to halt military operations targeting the Israeli entity. However, he emphasized that Yemens stance remains unchanged, Houthi media reported.

These claims are a reflection of Washingtons frustration after failing to protect Israeli ships and contain the fallout of its involvement, said Mohammed Abdulsalam, the head of Yemens national delegation.

Container shipping lines have said the Red Sea-Suez Canal route remains too unstable to resume scheduled services. A notable exception is CMA CGM of France, which has maintained regular voyages throughout much of the crisis.

The Houthis, who control about 40% of Yemen, have not attacked merchant shipping since late 2024, focusing on direct missile attacks on Israel instead. American forces this year stepped up bombing of Houthi positions inside Yemen and were joined recently by British forces. Earlier this month, the aircraft USS Harry S. Truman lost a fighter jet overboard when the ship reportedly made a maneuver to evade a Houthi missile attack.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Houthis paused their actions earlier this year after Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. The rebels resumed their attacks when that ceasefire fell apart.

Find more articles by Stuart Chirls here.

Related coverage:

West Coast politicians, port executives protest reckless tariffs

Updated shipping bill calls for 250-vessel US cargo fleet

As tariffs wreck China-US exports, container rates weather storm

Longshore union blasts Trump tariffs, warns of massive job losses

The post Houthis deny Trumps claim of Red Sea ceasefire appeared first on FreightWaves.
Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-8th) addresses the crowd at a Democratic party rally attended by then-President Joe Biden in Rockville on Aug. 25, 2022. (File photo by Danielle E. Gaines/Maryland Matters)

For two weeks, Lisa Lederman called the federal governments Office of Personnel Management practically whenever she had a moment to spare.

But the result was always the same, she said: Shortly after she dialed, the line would go dead.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For Lederman, a Silver Spring resident whose late husband was a federal worker, the saga began in February, after her checking account was compromised. Closing the bank account meant she stopped receiving her monthly survivors benefit from the federal government. And her efforts to fix the problem online werent working. So, she started calling, several times a day.

My son was in the car with me on the way to school one day, and hes like: Who are you calling so early? said Lederman, 54. Im calling the office trying to get my money.

But after weeks without success, a dispirited Lederman threw in the towel. Months later, Lederman said she still hasnt received a deposit  or gotten in contact with OPM.

Its like a ghost, she said of the office. Its like: Whos behind the curtain?

Thats a question local lawmakers are trying to answer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Tuesday, Ledermans congressman, Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-8th) joined with Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-Va.) to send a letter to the acting director of the Office of Personnel Management, arguing that Lederman is not alone.

Mass firings of human resources staff, both within federal agencies and at OPM, have exacerbated the ongoing crisis of dysfunction throughout the federal government, read the letter.

Forty other members of Congress signed on, including every other Maryland Democrat: Reps. Sarah Elfreth, Steny Hoyer, Glenn Ivey, April McClain Delaney, Kweisi Mfume and Johnny Olszewski Jr.

Human resources deficiencies have made matters worse for federal employees recently fired by Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency, or federal workers who recently ended their careers in public service earlier than planned, according to the letter.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At a time when they are manufacturing a crisis in the workforce, they are also disabling the personnel and human resource officers who would be dealing with all of the corresponding problems, Raskin said in an interview Monday.

But in a statement, OPM spokesperson McLaurine Pinover pushed back against the allegations in the letter, and blamed problems on the prior administration.

This letter is filled with baseless claims in an effort to make headlines. There have been no changes to the constituent services process, Pinover wrote. Unfortunately, the issues with this process predate this administration and OPM is actively working to modernize it to best serve the American people.

But the letter says some former federal workers cannot access the retirement benefits they earned, or are receiving incorrect benefits. Normally, they might contact the human resources office in their former department, but in many cases, those offices have been eliminated or significantly downsized.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At OPM, the main human resources agency and personnel policy manager for the federal government, the situation doesnt seem any better, according to the lawmakers letter. OPMs congressional liaison officers, who worked with staffers on the Hill to address concerns from constituents, appear to be on administrative leave, as well as managers.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

Alarmingly, our last remaining liaison contacts at OPM  who as recently as early April reassured our staff that their casework operations were ongoing  are now gone, states the letter.

Its an emergency situation, according to the letter, which calls on Charles Ezell, the acting director of OPM, to halt all firings of OPM staff and HR staff across the federal government and pursue reinstatements.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a statement, Chloe Scott, a spokesperson for Ivey, said that their office was notified on April 12 that OPM has made the decision to close their constituent services department. The office now emphasizes the importance of using their web-based portal for inquiries and that their correspondence division will route inquiries as proper.

This is very concerning as this change affects the ability to address Members concerns that are shared on behalf of their constituents and is creating added delays in processing inquiries at this agency, Scott said.

Lederman had been receiving the monthly survivors payments for herself and her three children since 2013, when her husband, Gordon, died after a battle with cancer. Lederman last served as a national security adviser to Sen. Joe Lieberman of Connecticut, and before that was an aide to Sen. Susan Collins and a staffer for the 9/11 Commission, his wife said.

When benefit payments stopped, and Lederman couldnt access OPMs online portal  or contact the agency by phone  she wasnt sure where to turn, until a friend recommended Raskins office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Now, she said one of the congressmans caseworkers is helping with her case.

Raskin said his caseworkers have been facing challenges corresponding with OPM for several weeks, and so he decided to issue a formal letter, in hopes of bringing it to the attention of agency leadership.

I keep wondering whether these people are aware of the long-term repercussions for the federal government and its ability to recruit people, Raskin said. I hope that this is just a short-term problem and that OPM will get on top of it.

Lederman said she was alarmed to learn that, amid the Trump administrations broader cuts to the federal workforce, HR staffers may have been targeted as well.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There have to be some reasonable heads that recognize that customer service  and being able to troubleshoot and talk to the constituents and the public  has to be part of staffing, she said.

Lederman said her family has been getting by since the payments stopped several months ago, but they are being more frugal than usual, and losing out on funds that would normally go into savings.

Its part of my budget. Part of my budget goes into savings and for a rainy day. And I have a kid whos going off to college, she said.

Lederman said she was glad to hear that members of Congress were raising awareness about the HR issues. She hopes that it will help not just her, but other citizens struggling to access benefits, including those who may be disadvantaged by language barriers or technology hurdles.

Its like theyre holding my money hostage, she said.
HUBBARD, Ohio (WKBN)  Students at Hubbard Schools were excited to celebrate National Bike and Roll to School Day.

Read next: Construction accident floods some Poland village basements with raw sewage

Almost 100 kids ditched the bus on Wednesday, instead joining up with friends to walk or ride to class.

They met up with staff and volunteers at the Roosevelt Student Wellness Center and then set out for the 1-mile trek.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Organizers hope the event teaches them that fitness can be fun.

Were trying to increase the awareness of the walkability of our town and involve kids with health and fitness activities before and after school since they only have gym class about one a week, and we need gym class more than once a week, especially elementary kids, said Karen Astuder, a health and fitness professional.

When the students arrived at school, they were treated to activity stations, a snack and a free t-shirt  all thanks to the Hubbard Youth Coalition.

The group hopes to make this an annual event.

Brian Oehlbeck contributed to this report.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  Advertisements of a scantily clad female with an emoji covering her face led to the arrest of a man accused of running a sex trafficking operation at an Antioch motel.

In a sting operation on Tuesday, May 6, investigators contacted a phone number posted on a commercial sex advertisement and met at an agreed location at the Super 8 Motel on Bell Road in Antioch.

DNA on water bottle leads to arrest in deadly cold case crash

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to court documents, Angel Diaz-Carvajal, 29, and a woman exited a motel room and she attempted to get into the undercover officers vehicle. When uniformed officers announced themselves, the woman was placed under arrest, and Diaz-Carvajal reportedly attempted to run away. He was caught shortly after and placed under arrest.

The woman said she met the 29-year-old in Chicago and he coerced her into coming to Nashville for a cleaning job. However, when she arrived, he reportedly informed her that there was no cleaning job, and she was instead forced to take explicit photographs and participate in sex acts for money.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

Diaz-Carvajal reportedly posted sexually explicit photos of the woman and used them for advertisements. According to Metro police, he controlled the ads, what clothes the victim wore, collected money from commercial sex buyers and had withheld food from her for more than a day before their arrests.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Carvajal was booked into the Metro jail and charged with felony sex trafficking, felony promoting prostitution, misdemeanor resisting arrest and misdemeanor evading arrest. His bond was set at $185,000.

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.
Valerie Huhn, director of the Missouri Department of Mental Health, speaks to reporters after being appointed to the job on Dec. 29, 2021 (photo courtesy of the Missouri Governor's Office).

There are 430 Missourians across the state in jails waiting to be moved to state psychiatric hospitals, up from around 300 at this time last year.

The average time those people wait in jail before receiving treatment has held steady at 14 months, according to Missouri Department of Mental Health data.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Those individuals were arrested, found incompetent to stand trial and ordered into mental health treatment designed to allow them to have their day in court  a process called competency restoration that generally includes therapy and medication. Those being held in jail are sometimes incarcerated for longer than they would be if theyd received the maximum sentence for the crime they were charged with.

Testifying before the Missouri House Health and Mental Health Committee earlier this week, Valerie Huhn, the state mental health agencys director, called the issue the most critical of the departments various waitlists for services.

I just wanted to make everybody aware of some of the risks that we know were taking on because we cant get these individuals from jail into our state operated hospitals, Huhn said. Obviously their illness is worse, and as their treatment is delayed, that makes it harder for us to turn them around.

The state also faces potential lawsuits, Huhn said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We also know that there are federal lawsuits in five states for inappropriate detention and imprisonments, and there are federal lawsuits in 10 states for violation of due process, she said. So there are a lot of risks for us not being able to address the needs of these populations.

State Rep. Kent Haden, a Republican from Mexico, said county jails are ill-equipped to hold individuals awaiting psychiatric treatment for so long.

My sheriff continually tells me, I am not prepared to handle mental health issues in my jail. And he had a suicide, Haden said. He said: We were not prepared to handle this situation.

The waitlist peaked in February and March, when the average stood at 440 people per month, and has since declined to 430 as of May 1.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Huhn attributed the slight decline to the launch, over the last few months, of a handful of pilot programs that were signed into law two years ago. These jail-based competency restoration programs are designed to bring treatment to jails, rather than require individuals be transferred to psychiatric facilities.

That program was slower starting than we wanted to see, but it is now open, Huhn said.

It has a capacity of 40 people, she said, and currently is serving 19.

Those programs are in the Jackson, Clay and St. Louis County jails, Deb Walker, the spokeswoman for the department, told The Independent.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2023, the state legislature approved $300 million to build a psychiatric hospital in Kansas City, which will add 150 beds. That is estimated to open in 2029, Huhn said, which is not soon enough to ameliorate the issue.

The legislature that year also worked to increase outpatient competency restoration, which has been slow to get off the ground, to treat those who can be safely released in their communities. Huhn said the agency is working to bolster that, including with money in the budget for community behavioral health liaisons to work between the agency and court. Outpatient treatment efforts will be targeted for those charged with low-level offenses, meaning misdemeanor charges and parole violations.

More Missourians are in the pipeline who will need competency restoration.

There are 80 people awaiting court orders and 230 more in open pretrial evaluations, of which the department estimates around half will be found incompetent.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The waitlist is a result of limited bed capacity, workforce, and a lack of community placements, Huhn told lawmakers, as well as a surge in the number of court-ordered competency evaluations. There has been a 48% increase in the last five years in those evaluations.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
BRYAN COUNTY, Ga. (WSAV)  The Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) was fined $30,000 for violating wastewater regulations in April, records show.

According to an enforcement order from the Environmental Protection Division (EPD), the plant was fined for discharging industrial wastewater to a publicly owned treatment works without an industrial pretreatment permit for such discharge.

They also reportedly utilized a sewage holding tank at the facility for purposes other than construction trailers at a construction site, the order said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By doing so, the EPD said they violated the Water Quality Control Act which regulates water quality, pollution and wastewater.

The plant must now submit a corrective action plan. They were also told to submit all required documents to EPD Industrial Permitting Program for final action by the Director regarding an industrial pretreatment permit for discharge to the North Bryan WRF; comply with requirements for pumping and hauling Non-Process Wastewater.

A spokesperson for the Metaplant told WSAV in a statement that they has worked diligently with the GA-EPD on all aspects of our wastewater management issues and improvements and that HMGMA has upgraded its wastewater treatment equipment and continues to work with the EPD to ensure compliance.

Residents have expressed concerns regarding the plants water usage and disposal since the beginning.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ogeechee Riverkeeper obtained documents through Georgia Open Records Act (GORA) requests, which revealed that HMGMA had been trucking wastewater off-site for a least four months in March.

The City of Savannah and HMGMA had a temporary agreement where the city will treat Hyundais wastewater until the Bryan County Wastewater Treatment Plant is done being built later this year. According to City of Savannah officials, levels of PH, solids and metals in the plants wastewater were too high.

In September 2024, HMGMA began discharging wastewater to the City of Savannah. Less than one month after discharge began, HMGMA, as required by permit, notified the city that our discharge amounts exceeded the limit for zinc, copper and total conductivity, a plant spokesperson told WSAV in March. HMGMA immediately stopped discharging and began a root cause analysis to determine the source.

HMGMA said that they have now submitted a permit application to EPD to discharge wastewater to Bryan County, which is their long-term goal and that they have a draft permit in development.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The plant began production of consumer vehicles in October. They held their grand opening in late March.

You can read more about Hyundais wastewater concerns here.

Read Hyundais May 7 statement in its entirety here:

HMGMA has worked diligently with the GA-EPD on all aspects of our wastewater management issues and improvements. HMGMA has upgraded its wastewater treatment equipment and continues to work with the EPD to ensure compliance.

In September 2024, HMGMA began discharging wastewater to the City of Savannah. Less than one month after discharge began, HMGMA, as required by permit, notified the City that our discharge amounts exceeded their limits. HMGMA immediately stopped discharging. HMGMA contracted with a specialized company to pump wastewater into tanker trucks and transport it off site to permitted facilities. We are working with EPD, Bryan County and the City of Savannah on the plans for future discharge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Recently, HMGMA submitted its permit application to EPD to discharge wastewater to Bryan County, which is the long-term goal. The permit application with EPD is complete and the draft permit is in development.

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.
When the power went out across Spain and Portugal last week, trains stopped, phones died and entire cities were plunged into darkness.

It was a stark warning for Europe's ageing electricity grid, which is under growing pressure from a changing energy mix and increasing demand.

While the cause of the outage is still unclear, the question is being asked how Europe can avoid another one.

Is renewable energy to blame?

Rumours have been swirling, ranging from a cyberattack to Spain's high share of renewable energy in its electricity mix.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The European Commission dismissed speculation about the latter.

"The Spanish and Portuguese operators, they are well experienced in handling high volumes of renewable generation in their electricity systems," a spokeswoman said.

She added that the EU had rules in place to ensure "the balancing of the electricity system and its capacity (...) to absorb renewable generation".

Meanwhile the grid operator, Red Electrica, ruled out a cyberattack referring to an analysis conducted by the country's intelligence agency.

"This morning we were able to conclude that there was no penetration of the Red Electrica control systems that could have caused the incident," Red Electrica operations director Eduardo Prieto said after the outage.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The commission will prepare an independent report on the massive blackout on the Iberian Peninsula, with a first technical version due within six months and a study including recommendations to be completed before September 2026, European sources reported.

"As it is likely that different elements contributed to the Iberian blackout, even once the chain of events leading up to it is understood, specific interest groups will likely point to particular failures to promote their preferred technical/managerial solutions," said Georg Zachmann of Bruegel, a think tank.

Experts urge action as electricity use surges

Electricity use has been growing for years, but is expected to grow even faster in future. More people will be using things like electric cars, heat pumps to warm their homes and solar panels to produce their own power.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By 2050, these changes could almost double electricity usage from the current rate, according to Eurelectric, a European electric industry lobby group.

Yet investment in the ageing grid - 30% of Europe's grids are over 40 years old, Eurelectric says - is not increasing at the same pace.

The commission's European Grid Action Plan, published in November 2023, says that 584 billion ($663 billion) in investment will be needed by 2030 to meet this growing electricity demand.

Many experts and researchers agree, having called for increased investments in the energy grid long before last week's events.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"As society relies more and more on electricity, it's crucial that electricity is reliable," said Kristian Ruby, secretary general of Eurelectric, in a statement last week.

What challenges face Europe's electricity grid?

The rise of renewables is crucial to combat climate change and increase energy security, but there are logistical challenges.

Grid operators must ensure that electricity is constantly balanced between demand and supply.

A metric of this balance is the frequency of the electricity flowing through the grid, set at 50 hertz (Hz) in Europe and 60 Hz in the United States. If that number drifts too far off, it can jeopardize the grid.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Historically, the electricity system has relied on conventional power plants  gas, coal, nuclear and hydroelectric  that use spinning turbines to generate electricity.

These machines keep the frequency stable. With their gigantic rotors spinning at high speed, they provide inertia to the system. If a power plant fails or if electricity demand increases too quickly, they help stabilize the grid by releasing the kinetic energy stored in the rotors.

Instead of spinning machines, solar and wind farms use electronic systems that feed power into the grid, making it harder to maintain that delicate balance.

Renewable energy will have to do more than provide carbon-free electricity in future, said Jose Luis Dominguez-Garcia, an electrical systems expert at the Catalonia Energy Research Institute.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They will have to "assist the system with additional controls to support the grid, particularly in inertia terms," he said.

Marc Petit, a professor at French engineering school CentraleSupelec, argued that moving away from fossil fuels would make hydroelectric and nuclear power plants "even more essential for stabilizing the system," as they use rotating machines.

A range of technical solutions already exists to compensate for renewables' lack of inertia and support grid stability. These include gravity storage, cryogenic (extremley cold) liquid air, compressed air and concentrated solar power.

As it undergoes a transition away from coal, Britain is banking on flywheels, a tried and tested system: Surplus power from solar and wind farms is used to make the large wheels turn, creating kinetic energy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This stored energy can then be converted to provide electricity to the grid if needed.

Just before the massive blackout on April 28, wind and solar power provided 70% of Spain's electricity output. But renewables are intermittent sources of energy as they rely on nature.

When the wind stops blowing or the sun is hiding, other sources have to step in within minutes, or adequate systems are needed to store  and then release  renewables.

Depending on the country, backup supply currently comes mainly from thermal power plants (gas or coal), nuclear reactors or hydroelectricity.

To handle the ups and downs of renewable power, countries must ramp up storage capacity.

Does Europe need more cross-border grid connections?

Increased interconnectedness in the European energy grid is also touted as a way to tackle future blackouts - with last week's power restoration to Spain and Portugal demonstrating such benefits.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

German transmission system operator Amprion helped France with energy supplies while a French energy provider in turn supported Spain and Portugal.

French grid operator RTE provided power at short notice to restore the Iberian grid on Monday, Amprion reported. "For its part, Amprion supported the situation with a cross-border energy supply to France," a company spokesman said.

Europe's interconnected power system means neighbouring states can help each other out in this way, with transmission system operators able to provide each other with emergency support, in the form of unscheduled energy supplies.

Throughout the bloc, all grid operators have emergency instruments to respond to major disruptions. However, there are regional differences, the Amprion spokesman noted.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Energy interconnectivity is thus weaker in the more peripheral Iberian peninsula than in Germany, for example, which is surrounded by several European countries.

Grazia Todeschini, of King's College London, said Europe has "the largest synchronous electrical grids in the world," supplying over 400 million customers in 32 countries, including most of the European Union.

However, this can present a risk too. "Under very special and extreme situations it may mean that outages may propagate across different countries," she noted.

That is what happened last Monday, when the outage in Spain also hit its neighbour Portugal, which is solely dependent on the Spanish grid in the case of an emergency.

A strengthening of energy interconnections between Portugal and other EU states has been discussed for several years, but has never fully advanced, despite the importance to energy security.

The content of this article is based on reporting by AFP, Agerpres, ANSA, dpa, EFE, LUSA and STA as part of the European Newsroom (enr) project.
The already strained relationship between India and Pakistan  marked by decades of hostility and deep mistrust  has reached one of its most critical points in over 20 years. Early Wednesday, the Indian Army launched an air offensive against several targets in Pakistani territory and the Pakistan-controlled portion of Kashmir. According to India, these sites were linked to the planning of last months terrorist attack on Indian soil.

The bombing has left at least 26 people dead and 46 wounded, according to Pakistani authorities, and has triggered a wave of mutual accusations between two nuclear-armed neighbors locked in a territorial conflict that has lasted nearly eight decades. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that his country is preparing a response but did not provide further details.

India has framed the strike as part of Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory measure following the April attack in the tourist resort of Pahalgam, located in the Indian-controlled part of Kashmir. In that incident, 26 Hindu tourists were killed in a shooting claimed by the Resistance Front, an insurgent group linked to the Islamist militant organization Lashkar-e-Taiba  an outfit India accuses of receiving support from Islamabad. Pakistan, however, has denied any involvement.

Rescuers wheel a body towards an ambulance after it was recovered from a building hit by an Indian strike in Muridke near Lahore, Pakistan, May 7, 2025. Mohsin Raza (REUTERS)

India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution, the Indian Ministry of Defense stated in a press release. It also specified that nine facilities were attacked, described as terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, where, it insists, terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. The statement described the operation as measured and non-escalatory, arguing that it deliberately avoided striking Pakistani military installations.

Pakistans Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called the assault a blatant act of war and denounced India for violating its sovereignty by using precision weapons from its own airspace and targeting civilians with missiles.

An Indian military spokesperson cited by Reuters said Indian forces had struck barracks of the armed groups Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba, both linked to previous attacks on Indian territory. The Indian news channel CNN News-18 reported that 12 terrorists were killed and at least 55 people were injured. Following the bombardment, the Indian Army posted on X: Justice is served.

However, Islamabad maintains that six sites were bombed, all of them civilian, including two mosques. Pakistan claims that Indian missiles struck three locations within its territory and that its military shot down five Indian fighter jets, a claim New Delhi has not addressed. A Pakistani military spokesman told Geo News that in addition to the eight dead, there were 35 wounded and two people missing.

The escalation has shaken the fragile truce first signed in 2003 and reaffirmed in 2021. This attack goes beyond Indias 2019 airstrike in retaliation for a suicide bombing in Pulwama, Indian Kashmir, that killed 40 paramilitary personnel  an event that led to Indias first air incursion into Pakistani territory since the 1971 war. It also surpasses the 2016 operation, when Indian commandos crossed the Line of Control to strike alleged insurgent bases after 18 soldiers were killed in Uri.

Unlike those actions, the current operation has involved a broader and more coordinated offensive, using long-range missiles launched from Indian airspace to hit targets outside the Kashmir region. In effect, it represents a redefinition of the tacit boundaries both countries had observed since the 2003 ceasefire, and it rekindles fears of a potential spiral of retaliation with unpredictable consequences.

Images aired on Indian television showed explosions, plumes of smoke, and scenes of panic. Witnesses quoted by Reuters confirmed blackouts and the presence of military aircraft over Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Pakistan has declared a state of emergency in Punjab province and placed hospitals on high alert. On the Indian side of Kashmir, residents and police reported artillery shelling and aerial activity along the Line of Control, the de facto border between the two countries.

India has begun rallying support and justifying its actions to key allies. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has contacted U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, while other senior officials have briefed counterparts in the United Kingdom, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, according to diplomatic sources cited by several agencies.

U.S. President Donald Trump described the situation as a shame and said he hoped it would end very quickly. The United Nations has urged both sides to exercise maximum military restraint. Pakistans main ally, China  whose President Xi Jinping is visiting Russia this Wednesday, a key Indian partner  has expressed regret over Indias military offensive and concern about how the situation may unfold. India and Pakistan are and will always be each others neighbors, and they are both Chinas neighbors, said a spokesperson for Chinas Foreign Ministry.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
United States federal agents tried to enter two Los Angeles elementary schools on April 7, 2025, and were denied entry, according to the Los Angeles Times. The agents were apparently seeking contact with five students who had allegedly entered the country without authorization.

The Trump administration has been targeting foreign-born college students and professors for deportation since February 2025. This was the first known attempt to target younger students since the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in January rescinded a 2011 policy that had limited immigration enforcement actions in locations deemed sensitive by the government such as hospitals, churches and schools.

Criminals will no longer be able to hide in Americas schools and churches to avoid arrest, the department said on Jan. 21, 2025.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Roughly 600,000 migrant students without legal status are enrolled in the U.S public education system.

Many K-12 educators are worried that Immigration and Customs Enforcement could start removing students from classrooms. In some places, including New York City, school attendance has decreased over fears that children could be swept up in a raid.

I am a scholar who studies the intersection of U.S. law and the public education system. Under U.S. law, ICE can now legally enter K-12 school grounds. That makes it important for students and schools to understand their rights under the law.

The federal government

Article 1, Section 8, of the U.S. Constitution gives Congress the ability to regulate immigration and provide for the common defense and general Welfare of the United States.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This last clause was used following the 9/11 terrorist attacks of 2001 as the constitutional basis to establish the Department of Homeland Security and create ICE as one of its security agencies. ICE enforces over 400 federal statutes dealing with immigration, including the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, which allows it to investigate and detain certain noncitizens.

ICE arrested Columbia University student Mahmoud Kahlil in March 2025, spurring protests. Several other international students have been detained since. Andrew Lichtenstein/Corbis via Getty Images

This law can place schools and their staff in a potentially conflicted legal position if ICE starts targeting schools, because educators have legal obligations to their students.

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 requires public schools to educate every student without regard for their citizenship or immigration status. Meanwhile, residents of all 50 U.S. states have the right to a free and public education under their states constitution.

Under the laws governing immigration and ICEs role in enforcement, educators cannot obstruct an ICE investigation or knowingly hide students.

Laws and court precedents

The U.S. Supreme Court has additionally ruled that students who are not legally living in the U.S. have the same right to an education as any other child.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the 1982 U.S. Supreme Court decision Plyler v. Doe, the justices struck down a Texas law allowing the state to withhold school district funds for educating children without legal immigration status. The court said the law was unconstitutional because it violated the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment, which reads in part that no state shall deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.

Plyler v. Doe asserted that person meant just that  a person, not necessarily a citizen.

Around the same time, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act was enacted to protect personal student information from release to a third party. That includes law enforcement and ICE, except under three circumstances: the parents consent to the release; a school directory includes student information; or a court orders the school to release the information.

Finally, the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act says that schools must enroll and educate students who are with unstable living situations, including migrants, without discrimination.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In addition to these federal laws and cases, many states have additional laws that encourage the education of local K-12 students who lack citizenship or residency status. In Michigan, for example, the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act of 1976 prohibits discrimination based on national origin and race in schools, including in admissions and expulsions.

A women who fears she could be targeted by immigration officials holds a know your rights card handed out by her grandchildrens school on Jan. 22, 2025, in the San Francisco Bay Area. AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vasquez

School districts and ICE

What can K-12 educators do if they find themselves confronting contradictory legal obligations  that of educating all students and that of not impeding a criminal investigation?

Interpreting conflicts in the law is the job of judges  not teachers, ICE agents or academics. The following guidance may help districts prepare for immigration enforcement in K-12 schools:

1. Get ready. Every school district should develop a process and protocol for how to engage with law enforcement in general and ICE specifically.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This plan would involve coordination between the school principals and district superintendent, as well as, most importantly, the districts lawyers. Traditional school corporate counsel may not have much experience in criminal law; engaging additional counsel with experience in criminal procedures and Fourth Amendment protections can be helpful.

Everyone should understand their role in the plan. Administrative assistants are likely to be the first people engaged when ICE shows up to the school. Do they know what to do?

2. Collect data thoughtfully. There is no state or federal mandate for schools to document citizenship for K-12 school enrollment, though some states are considering requiring proof of citizenship or legal immigration status for enrollment, including Oklahoma, Indiana, Texas, Tennessee and New Jersey.

3. Obey the law. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act forbids sharing certain information about students with outsiders, including law enforcement. As a rule, then, staff should always avoid discussing students beyond what they are required to do as a function of their employment. Many school board policies ensure that the information they release publicly about enrolled students is minimal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

4. Understand how warrants work. Just because a school is public does not mean that anyone can just come into a classroom, and that includes the police or ICE. A warrant may not be required to detain or arrest a student on the spot, but law enforcement must produce one to access any nonpublic areas of the school in search of that student. They must also show a warrant to see student records or other information, unless parents have previously consented to this information being shared.

Under exigent circumstances, such as if the public is at risk of imminent harm, a warrant may not be required for police to enter the school.

5. Keep records. If ICE does knock on the schoolhouse door, administrators should be sure to prepare a report, in accordance with school board policies, for the school districts records that describes everything that happened and retain all documentation.

This article was updated to correct the year of the Plyler v. Doe Supreme Court ruling.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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: Brian Boggs, University of Michigan

Read more:



Brian Boggs 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 Donald Trumps administration must return detained Tufts University student Rumeysa Ozturk to Vermont, an appeals court ruled Wednesday.

Ozturk, a 30-year-old doctoral student originally from Turkey, has been held for weeks in an immigration jail in Louisiana while her case was argued in multiple courts. But the 2nd Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals gave ICE until May 14 to bring her back to Vermont.

Vermont is likely the proper venue to adjudicate Ozturks habeas petition because, at the time she filed, she was physically in Vermont, the court wrote in its 45-page decision.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Plainclothes federal agents arrested Ozturk on a Boston street on March 25, and her detainment was captured on video. Shes one of several international students who have been detained for supporting pro-Palestine movements.

Lawyers for Ozturk quickly filed a habeas corpus petition, arguing the government had denied Ozturk her rights to due process under the U.S. Constitution. She was being held in Vermont when the petition was filed.

On May 1, a federal district judge in Vermont ruled that Ozturk should be returned to the state, but the Trump administration immediately appealed. On Wednesday, the 2nd Circuit Court rejected that appeal.

No one should be arrested and locked up for their political views, American Civil Liberties Union deputy director Esha Bhandari said in a press release. Were grateful the court refused the governments attempt to keep her isolated from her community and her legal counsel.

____
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations visited more than 100 businesses in the Washington, D.C., area this week in what the agency said was part of a broad effort to conduct worksite enforcement across the nation to ensure businesses are following U.S. immigration and employment laws," according to a statement sent to ABC News on Wednesday.

No arrests were made as part of these worksite enforcement operations," the statement said.

Multiple sources told ABC News that federal law enforcement officials had visited dozens of restaurants, carry-out spots and bars across several neighborhoods in D.C. -- including U Street, 14th Street, Chinatown, Dupont Circle and Mount Vernon Triangle. The visits spanned a wide range of establishments, from fast-casual spots to fine-dining restaurants and luxury cocktail bars, reflecting the breadth of the operation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At many restaurants, agents distributed information and pamphlets requesting to see I-9 forms to verify the identities and employment authorizations for all employees dating back to one year ago, sources said, adding that some restaurants were told federal officials would return in three days.

Following Tuesday's visits, some restaurant owners chose to close preemptively.

"I have heard those reports, I've been getting them all morning. I am disturbed by them," Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser told reporters on Tuesday. "It appears that ICE is at restaurants or even in neighborhoods, and it doesn't look like they're targeting criminals. It is disrupting."

She also emphasized that the Metropolitan Police Department was not involved.

PHOTO: A Department of Homeland Security seal on a podium at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) headquarters, Mar. 13, 2024. (Luke Barr/ABC News)

A coalition of activists had warned delivery drivers and restaurants of the planned enforcement the day before they began.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

George Escobar, chief of programs and services at CASA, an organization geared toward improving the quality of life for the working class, told ABC News on Tuesday that the organization regularly receives tips about planned raids -- but that this one was different.

"This one, to be honest, alarmed us a little bit because it was really specific," Escobar said.

The organization has run a 24-hour tip hot line since the first Trump administration.

"We're experienced. We don't get alarmed by, like, you know, any old threat because, you know, they're frequent, right? And they come in all different types of forms," he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, in this instance, CASA was warned that ICE would be using President Donald Trump's executive order aimed at the "beautification" of Washington, D.C., to justify the raids, Escobar said.

"We received notice about a specific kind of operation on how they were going to be conducted: what the pretense of maybe entering some of these small businesses were going to be, the fact that they were looking specifically at food businesses and possibly delivery workers," he explained.

MORE: Timeline: Wrongful deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia to El Salvador

"If ICE wants to snatch up every single immigrant working in food service and delivery, then the entire industry will collapse," Amy Fischer, a core organizer with Migrant Solidarity Mutual Aid Network, which supports migrants arriving in the capital, said in a statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington, which represents the more than 60,000 restaurant workers in the area, said in a statement shared with ABC News that it is "deeply concerned" by the reports of ICE raids and drop-ins across Washington, D.C.

RAMW said it urges "policymakers on a local and federal level to consider the real-world impact on local businesses and communities."

MORE: Mohsen Mahdawi, Columbia student freed by ICE, feared citizenship interview was a 'trap'

"Immigrants make up a significant portion of our workforce at all levels. From dishwashers to executive chefs to restaurant owners, immigrants are irreplaceable contributors to our most celebrated restaurants and beloved neighborhood establishments," it added. "The immigrant workforce has been essential to sustaining and growing our local restaurant industry and has been a major contributor to our local economy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"At a time when our economy is already fragile, losing even one staff member at a single establishment has a profound impact on the operations of a restaurant and its ability to serve patrons," RAMW added. "Disrupting restaurant staffing across the industry can create a damaging ripple effect felt immediately throughout the entire local economy."

ICE targets businesses and restaurants across DC originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
MAHANOY CITY, SCHUYLKILL COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)  A man has been arrested after police say an explosive device was discovered inside a church rectory.

According to the Mahanoy City Police Department, officers arrested 32-year-old Kyle Kuczynski, who was wanted on a bench warrant.

Arrest made in tissue plant fire investigation

Police say Kuczynski was wanted in connection with an incident at St. Teresa of Calcutta Rectory on May 6, where an explosive device was ignited inside the chapel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Most Reverend Alfred A. Schlert, Bishop of Allentown, stated the following on the crime;

I thank God that no one was injured in the incident and that the suspect has been taken into custody. I am heartbreaking that such a heinous, hateful, and evil act occurred at St. Teresa of Calcutta.

Kuczynski will be facing arson and other related charges due to this 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 PAhomepage.com.
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  An Illinois man is facing new charges, including attempted kidnapping, after he allegedly attempted to abduct a student from a Buffalo public school in February, according to the Erie County District Attorneys Office.

It is alleged that Shane Cronin, 30, entered the Dr. Charles R. Drew Science Magnet school around 12:35 p.m. on Feb. 11 with the intent to lure and abduct a student.

Cronin, who pleaded not guilty to the charges on Wednesday, allegedly approached two juvenile students in the hallway and punched a school employee in the face when she tried to intervene, according to officials.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I understand this alleged incident has raised questions and heightened concerns about the safety and well-being of children in the Buffalo Public School District, said Erie County DA Mike Keane. I assure the public that this office remains committed to the thorough investigation and prosecution of any crime involving a child.

A Buffalo police detective alleged on a widely shared podcast last month that Buffalo Public Schools deleted a video of the incident and did not report other instances of sexual assault and physical abuse.

Additionally, I am aware of statements made by a member of the Buffalo Police Department in recent podcast interviews, said Keane. My office has been conducting an investigation. We are committed to upholding the law, pursuing justice for victim, and preserving the integrity of the investigative process.

Cronin originally faced an assault charge, a burglary charge, and endangering the welfare of a child. He now faces second-degree attempted kidnapping and attempted luring a child, and could face additional charges in the future.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cronin remains held without bail and is scheduled to return to court June 18. He faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted.

Latest Local News

Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University.

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.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO)  During a visit Wednesday at the Illinois Capitol, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem blasted the states sanctuary laws aimed at hindering federal immigration efforts, prompting a sarcastic response from Gov. JB Pritzker.

At a press conference, Noem called Illinoiss sanctuary policies for illegal immigrants a safety concern, claiming Illinois doesnt protect its citizens.

This governor has bragged about Illinois being a firewall against President Trumps immigration enforcement agenda, and its very clear hes violating the Constitution of the United States because it is a federal law that the federal government and the president set to enforce immigration policy, she said at a press conference.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Illinois prevents local authorities from cooperating with U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement (ICE) by way of the TRUST Act, the Way Forward Act, the Welcoming City Act, and a Cook County ordinance.

Im calling on Gov. Pritzker and all the other leaders of this state to abandon their dangerous sanctuary policies, she added. Im thankful for all the state leaders that are standing behind me who agree as well. They have been fighting an uphill battle with this governor, and Im proud of them that theyre standing here with us today and with these angel families, and saying enough is enough. We have to change as a state.

The night prior, Pritzkers office issued statement to the media, saying, Despite the Trump Administration being in office for more than 100 days and falsely accusing Illinois of not following federal and state law, Secretary Noem and her team does not communicate with the State of Illinois and has not asked for support or coordination to enforce immigration laws.

We would urge all pet owners in the region to make sure all of your beloved animals are under watchful protection while the Secretary is in the region, Pritzkers office wrote, apparently a reference to a anecdote in her book, No Going Back: The Truth on Whats Wrong with Politics and How We Move America Forward, about killing a dog decades prior.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Wednesday, following Noems press conference, Pritzkers office issued a press release in both English and Spanish, saying, Unlike Donald Trump and Kristi Noem, Illinois follows the law. The Trump Administration is violating the United States Constitution, denying people due process, and disappearing law-abiding neighbors  including children who are U.S. citizens. Yet, they are taking no real action to promote public safety and deport violent criminals within the clear and defined legal process.

Sen. Dave Syverson (R-Cherry Valley) weighed in on Noems visit, saying, A visit by the Homeland Security Secretary sends a pretty strong message to the Pritzker Administration. The federal government is shining a national light on what many Illinoisans already know. Gov. JB Pritzkers sanctuary state policies are reckless, dangerous, and putting lives at risk. He has repeatedly proclaimed Illinois as the most welcoming state in the nation, but has little to say about what its costing taxpayers or how many violent offenders have slipped through the cracks as a result.

Meanwhile, Noems visit to Springfield arrived on the same day that REAL ID requirements began at U.S. airports.

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias issued a statement criticizing Noems messaging on the subject, saying, For months, Secretary Noem has been calling the May 7 date a deadline, implying that Americans must have a REAL ID or they cannot board any U.S.-based flights without a valid passport, which has sent people scrambling to get one ahead of [Wednesday], Giannoulias said. For the past several months, this has resulted in long lines, frustration and  in many cases  pure panic among residents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Instead of flying across the country to perform campaign-style political stunts designed to traumatize people and promote herself, she should do her damn job, Giannoulias said.

Pritzker has agreed to testify before a Congressional committee in defense of the states sanctuary laws on June 12th, alongside Democratic Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and New York Mayor Kathy Hochul.

The U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Illinois, alleging the state and the city of Chicago interfere with federal immigration enforcement by violating the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution.

Illinois state and local officers do not honor ICE detainers, including by allowing ICE access to aliens in their facilities  even in otherwise public areas of those facilities  for the purpose of safely transferring aliens into federal custody, the statement reads.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While ICE is undertaking re-apprehension efforts, the alien remains at-large in the community and free to commit further crimes or otherwise threaten public safety, the DOJ said.

President Donald Trump said his administration was taking efforts to withhold federal funding from cities and states with policies that limit local law enforcement from cooperating with federal authorities on some immigration matters.

Pritzker has said that violent noncitizens should be imprisoned and, or if theyre illegal, undocumented in this country and they are committing violent crimes they should be deported and turned over to authorities in their countries.

We should be protecting residents of the state of Illinois, even if theyre undocumented residents, and providing a path to citizenship, Pritzker added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
CHICAGO  Another contestant joined the still-emerging field of Democrats vying to succeed U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin Wednesday as five-term northwest suburban U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi launched his bid, pitching himself as a radical common sense progressive to take on President Donald Trump.

A president, ignoring the Constitution, out for revenge, acting like a dictator, claiming hes a king, surrounded by billionaire backers and MAGA extremists, threatening our rights, rigging the rules to line their pockets, the 51-year-old Krishnamoorthi of Schaumburg says in his near 2-minute video announcement released Wednesday. Wrecking the economy, they profit and working people pay. Its insanity. People want to know, at this moment in this time, where is the power to fight back?

Ive spent my career standing up to bullies, whether theyve gone after our kids, our families or our country, he continues in the video. So if youre ready to turn anger into action and make America work for working people, join our campaign.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Krishnamoorthis formal announcement had been expected and it comes two weeks after the 80-year-old Durbin announced he would not seek a sixth term. It also follows announcements by Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton and U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly of Matteson that they would enter the March 17 Democratic primary.

With his bid, Krishnamoorthi injects into the race a mix of moderate policy positions such as supporting small business initiatives  in line with the ideology of many voters in his suburban district  along with progressivism as one of 19 vice chairs of the Congressional Equality Caucus, a group that promotes equality for all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

I see myself as kind of a radical common sense progressive, the one-time small business security firm owner said in an interview before his announcement.

Im a racial, religious, ethnic minority immigrant with 29 letters in my name. I identify with people who are strivers or dreamers, as single moms, the most vulnerable, LGBTQ people who have been bullied, Krishnamoorthi said. I identify myself with the small businesses who constantly feel like the playing field is unlevel for them relative to big corporations, because I myself felt that way relative to my competitors.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Krishnamoorthi also will be injecting into the race the nearly $19.5 million he has in his federal campaign fund  an amount that is tops among the states delegation in Washington  as he notably takes on Stratton, who has the backing of billionaire two-time running mate, Gov. JB Pritzker.

Far from a household name to statewide voters, Just call me Raja has long been Krishnamoorthis political campaign theme and he is maintaining it for the Senate run.

But in his biographical announcement, he seeks to connect himself to voters with a powerful and popular Illinois Democrat by pointing to his past political work for Barack Obama before he was elected president. Obama showed that Illinois will give you a shot even if you have a funny name, and, inspired by Baracks example, I was elected to Congress, he says in the video.

In a race to replace a downstate U.S. senator, the congressman from Schaumburg also sought to differentiate himself from his Chicago-area rivals by pointing out that while his family moved from New Delhi, India, when he was 3-months-old, he was raised in Peoria and is a son of Peoria public schools.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A graduate of Princeton University and the Harvard School of Law, Krishnamoorthis candidacy brings his federal political career full circle.

In his first bid for Congress in 2012, he lost the Democratic nomination to Tammy Duckworth. Elected to the House four years later after Duckworth went to the Senate, Krishnamoorthi now seeks to become the junior partner to the future Illinois senior senator. Duckworth is backing Strattons bid.

But Krishnamoorthi has been a creature of Illinois politics. He was a volunteer for Obamas failed 2000 primary challenge to former U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush and became policy director for Obamas successful 2004 U.S. Senate run.

Krishnamoorthi then assisted in the launch of an anti-corruption unit in the Illinois attorney generals office under Lisa Madigan before serving as a deputy state treasurer under now-Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, where Kelly served as chief of staff. In his only previous statewide run, in 2010, he narrowly lost a primary bid for state comptroller before running for Congress two years later.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Before entering Congress, Krishnamoorthi ran a small business specializing in security research and development. That background led to his work in Congress to reauthorize and modernize federal programs to provide vocational and technical education opportunities.

He also helped lead an investigation into youth vaping and e-cigarettes that prompted stronger federal regulation of the products and forced Juul to reach a $439 million settlement with dozens of states over allegations the company targeted young people in its advertising.

A member of the House Intelligence Committee and the House Oversight Committee, Krishnamoorthi has long pursued to toughen limits on lead in baby foods and was a longtime critic of Purdue Pharma over its role in peddling Oxycontin. The firm went bankrupt in 2021, but its owners agreed to pay billions of dollars worth of opioid-abuse claims.

In 2024, Krishnamoorthi helped spearhead controversial legislation to force the Chinese internet company ByteDance to sell its popular social media app TikTok. The legislation became law but Trump has so far delayed enforcing it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In recent days, Krishnamoorthi has warned Irish low-cost airline Ryanair to not buy Chinese-made aircrafts. The move came amid concerns over intellectual property theft after the airlines CEO said it was an alternative to canceling orders for Boeing 737 jets with an increased price tag due to Trumps imposition of tariffs. Krishnamoorthi is the top Democrat on the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party.

Now we have, perhaps, the biggest bully of them all, Donald Trump, and I have a track record of standing up to bullies and I can stand up to him as well, he said in his pre-announcement interview.

Assailing the chaos of Trumps early second term and resulting economic uncertainty, Krishnamoorthi said government should be an indispensable partner in helping people realize their economic dreams and their potential.

I believe that with every fiber of my body that right now, whether youre working poor, whether youre middle class, whether youre growing a business, we want everyone to succeed in this country and the government needs to be there to help however it can, he said in the interview.

Krishnamoorthi on Friday is scheduled to hold the first official events of his campaign with stops in Peoria, Chicago and Schaumburg.

____
BOSTON (Reuters) - Immigrant rights advocates asked a federal judge in Boston on Wednesday to block the Trump administration from sending migrants subject to final orders of deportation to Libya or any country en route to there, including Saudi Arabia.

The advocates made the request to a federal judge who had barred the administration from swiftly deporting migrants to countries other than their own without first hearing any concerns they had that they might be tortured or persecuted if sent there.

(Reporting by Nate Raymond in Boston, Editing by Franklin Paul)
The search is on for a pope who is both a pastor and a manager  a combination that is proving difficult to find. The legacy of Francis 12-year papacy still lingers, casting a long shadow over the process. Cardinals are looking for someone who matches his charisma and empathy; as electing a pontiff who lacks personal chemistry and retreats into the insularity of the Vatican would feel like a step backward.

However, it is also expected that the next pope will know how to govern, build consensus and instill order, while also articulating doctrine in a clear and convincing manner. The prevailing mood within the conclave is leaning toward continuity, albeit with certain adjustments; being likable and popular isnt enough. There is talk of affable, charismatic cardinals, along with lesser-known figures who might prove unexpectedly impressive. But there is also a palpable unease about untested choices; prophets spark concern.

Many will no longer jump into the pool without knowing if theres water in it; they believe Bergoglio [Pope Francis] wasnt what they were sold, confides one prelate. Its important to remember that the then-Archbishop of Buenos Aires was considered a conservative. The leading papal contenders in public speculation are European or North American, though the search for a surprise candidate continues in Asia and Africa. But time is running out: the conclave begins this Wednesday at 4:30 p.m., and no clear names are on the table  at least, none that are known. Soon it will be revealed whether any maneuvering has been successfully kept under wraps.

Outside, what continues to leak is confusionfor reasons that are already well known. Make a mess, Pope Francis once said, and thats exactly what hes done, leaving behind deep internal divisions  both for and against him  and a record 133 cardinal electors from 71 countries. Most of them dont know each other well, and 108 are participating in their first conclave. Theres a growing sense that its time to vote, if only to begin clarifying the field and gauging the real support behind the many papal contenders. By now, the list of names floated in recent weeks has grown to around 30, including two Spaniards: the Archbishop of Rabat, Cristobal Lopez, and Angel Fernandez, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Religious Life.

Criticism of general congregations

On the other hand, the general congregations  the daily assemblies of cardinals that concluded this Tuesday after 12 sessions  have done little to clarify ideas as hoped. In fact, they have drawn criticism for amounting to little more than a succession of speeches, typically 20 to 30 per session, where each cardinal took the floor in turn to speak on whatever topic he deemed important. While a wide range of issues was addressed, listeners were left with only a superficial impression of each speaker  five or 10 minutes to get a rough idea, but little more.

Its not a lot of time to understand what that person is like, what they think, its not easy, confessed Cardinal Tarcisius Isao Kikuchi of Tokyo. Most of us have never met, and this is the first time were together. You could say we dont know each other, he added. In fact, some even think the congregations were organized this way on purpose, pointing to the Secretary of State and frontrunner, Pietro Parolin. The idea being that cardinals wouldnt have enough time to get to know one another and would end up trusting the most respected voices when it comes time to vote.

We havent spoken to each other during the meetings, the French Cardinal of Algiers, Jean-Paul Vesco, calmly confessed. He complained that the congregations are organized like the old synods, without discussion panels, and believes they should be reformed. Pope Francis preference for appointing simple bishops close to the people has brought noticeable changes in the way some speak openly with journalists, in a way that wasnt seen before.

The last cardinal to arrive in Rome last weekend was the Archbishop of Jakarta, Indonesia, who attended his first assembly on Monday, the tenth session. Another session took place that afternoon. In total, he listened to more than 50 interventions from fellow cardinals in a single day, and upon leaving, he said: What great confusion. Ignatius Suharyo Hardjoatmodjo may have expected things to be clearer by now. As in previous days, Tuesdays final session once again brought up the issue of divisions within the Church, according to the brief summary provided by the Holy See press office.

At the last minute, a minor scandal erupted involving one of the two cardinal electors, who had cited health reasons for not attending the conclave. Kenyan Cardinal John Njue unexpectedly declared in an interview that he had not received an official invitation to Rome and didnt know why. After the initial confusion, the Kenyan nunciature confirmed that he had indeed received an invitation but was unable to travel due to health concerns. It is unclear how this incident will unfold, but it could have implications if someone uses it to challenge the election of the pope in the future.

Cross-faction support

Predictions on the eve of a conclave are almost always rendered comical a few days later, but there is usually some prior framework. What happens next is another matter. According to Vatican sources and analysis from the Italian press, the strongest candidate remains Pietro Parolin, who is believed to have around 40 votes.

The problem is that this may be his ceiling, opines one Vatican source. He is supposed to have cross-party support, among both progressives and conservatives, as well as from several continents due to his diplomatic network. However, his opposition is just as widely spread.

The first three votes  one on Wednesday as soon as the cardinals enter the Sistine Chapel, followed by two on Thursday morning and two in the afternoon  will be crucial in determining whether Parolins candidacy can gain traction. If not, his votes will shift to someone else. If a quick white smoke appears, between the fourth and fifth votes, Parolin could emerge as the chosen one. But if Thursdays last smoke is black, the situation will open up, and surprises may arise.

Candidates aligned with continuity to Pope Franciss papacy have emerged, including Jean-Marc Aveline, Archbishop of Marseille; Mario Grech, the Maltese cardinal and Franciss right-hand man in the synods; and Robert Francis Prevost, often considered the dark horse of this conclave. While Prevost is from the United States  the main obstacle to his election  he is seen as not very American. He has worked for decades in Peru, has governance experience, is conciliatory, and knows the Vatican well. Furthermore, he is believed to be a good potential interlocutor with Donald Trump in the current geopolitical climate.

A Filipino cardinal, Pablo Virgilio David, 66, has also gained surprising momentum over the past 48 hours. He made a strong impression with his speech, but he remains little known in Rome, has no curial experience, and many cardinals want someone capable of leading the Vatican.

The Italian press has been pushing the theory for weeks that there are two other strong Italian candidates who could be considered if Parolins candidacy collapses: Matteo Zuppi, president of the Italian Bishops Conference; and Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Patriarch of Jerusalem, who has support from the conservative wing. The chances of Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle have reportedly diminished.

All speculation will soon come to an end. On Wednesday morning, the cardinals will witness the destruction of Pope Franciss Fishermans Ring and his papal lead seal. A new one is already prepared, awaiting the 267th pope of the Catholic Church.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Lori Wallach was into tariffs before they were cool, and she was still into them when they became uncool again. She cut her teeth fighting alongside labor unions and environmental groups against NAFTA in the 1990s. For more than 30 years, she has been trying to convince Democrats to be more skeptical of free trade. She spent most of that time in the political wilderness, waging one losing battle after another against a powerful bipartisan free-trade consensus. Then the winds began to shift. Donald Trump was elected president after railing against free-trade agreements. Congressional Democrats helped defeat Barack Obamas signature trade deal, the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). The Biden administration embraced such taboo ideas as industrial policy and targeted tariffs, with near-universal support from fellow Democrats. The moment that Wallach had been working for her entire career seemed to have finally arrived.

And now shes watching in horror as Trump sets it all on fire.

Since taking office, Trump has imposed tariffs on Mexico and Canada. He has announcedand then, confusingly, pausedmassive reciprocal tariffs on the entire world. He has started a full-blown trade war with China and suggested that Americans will simply have to make do with having fewer, more expensive products on store shelves. In the process, he has infuriated Americas allies, paralyzed businesses, sent the stock market reeling, and nearly precipitated a bond-market meltdown. Economists now warn that the economy is headed for 1970s-style stagflation. To ask Wallach where she disagrees with the Trump approach to tariffs is to sign yourself up for a movie-length diatribe. The last few months have been a master class on how to screw up tariffs, she told me. Its hard to describe just how frustrating it is to watch Trump take what can be a very effective policy tool and completely undermine it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

[Derek Thompson: There is only one way to make sense of tariffs]

Wallach is not the only liberal trade hawk having a hard time right now. In recent weeks, Ive spoken with about a dozen politicians, former White House officials, activists, and intellectuals who have helped push Democrats to become more skeptical of free trade. Like Wallach, they fear that the presidents ill-conceived approach to tariffs will discredit the tool entirely in the eyes of voters. Democratic politicians will respond by reembracing free trade. Decades of painstaking progress to build a new trade consensus will be wiped away in a few months. Trumps recklessness is playing right into the hands of corporate America, Sherrod Brown, the former Democratic senator from Ohio, who has long fought for greater trade restrictions, told me. It has given them an opening to say, Look how terrible tariffs arewe should go back to the old free-trade consensus.

These pro-tariff liberals are trying to thread an excruciatingly narrow political needle. They must convince their side that, as bad as Trumps approach has been, tariffs are still a valuable policy tool when applied rationally to specific countries and sectors. They must do this at a moment when the Democratic base wants nothing more than for its leaders to bring the fight to the current presidenta president whose biggest political weakness happens to be tariffs. If they fail, then the decades-long project of building a new trade consensus could turn out to have all been for nothing.

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Democrats and Republicans found common ground in their enthusiasm for free trade. NAFTA and the decision to allow China into the World Trade Organization passed with bipartisan support. Plenty of lawmakers, especially Democrats, did object to these deals at the time. But the notion that more free trade was better was so widely held across the two parties that it became part of what was known as the Washington Consensus.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For much of his life, Jake Sullivan believed in that consensus. His background reads like the fictionalized archetype of a globalist elite: educated at Yale, then Oxford, then Yale again for law school; winner of the Marshall Scholarship, which he turned down in favor of the Rhodes; intern at the Council on Foreign Relations. As a national security adviser in the Obama administration, he supported the TPP.

The 2016 election shook his faith. Trump ascended to the presidency in part by attacking Americas leaders for shipping jobs overseas and by promising to rip up free-trade agreements. (Indeed, after seeing Trump and Bernie Sanders tap into voters resentment toward trade, Sullivan, who at the time served as the top foreign-policy adviser to the Hillary Clinton campaign, encouraged his bosss decision to denounce the TPP.) The same year, a trio of economists published a landmark paper showing that free trade with China had cost about 2 million U.S. workers their jobs and devastated much of the Rust Belt, a phenomenon that became known as the China shock. Later research found that Trump had overperformed in counties that had been most heavily exposed to Chinese imports. The lesson was that although free trade brings widespread benefits, it also can inflict extremely concentrated costswith potentially disastrous political ramifications.

Now out of government, Sullivan found himself searching for where his party had gone wrong. He met with manufacturing workers and labor-union officials who described the toll that shuttered factories and lost livelihoods had taken on the American middle class. He watched as China veered in an ever more authoritarian and aggressive direction even as it became more integrated into the global economythe exact opposite of what free-traders had predicted. He sat at home during the early days of the coronavirus pandemic as the United States found itself facing shortages of supplies as basic as face masks and as essential as semiconductors. Eventually, he concluded that the old consensus was deeply flawed. There were a number of these moments where it became clear that the world had changed, Sullivan told me. But our prescriptions for what to do about it had not been updated to account for the world we were now living in.

Joe Biden, a longtime free-trade advocate, had undergone a similar awakening by the time he took office, in 2021. He appointed Sullivan as his national security adviser and tasked him with weaving the administrations trade policy, domestic economic priorities, and foreign-policy agenda into a cohesive vision. In April 2023, Sullivan gave a speech outlining the contours of that vision, which he called a new Washington consensus. The postulate that deep trade liberalization would help America export goods, not jobs and capacity, was a promise made but not kept, Sullivan declared. Instead of deferring to the whims of the global free market, the U.S. government should play a more active role in creating good middle-class jobs, reducing economic dependence on geopolitical adversaries, seeding new industries crucial to national security, and building resilient supply chains. The centerpiece of the new consensus was the passage of major public investments in clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

[Franklin Foer: The new Washington consensus]

For Wallach, now the director of Rethink Trade at the American Economic Liberties Project, the Sullivan speech was the ultimate validation. Finally, a Democratic administration was saying and doing the kinds of things she had spent decades advocating. But the administration remained internally divided over the use of outright protectionist measures; free-traders such as thenTreasury Secretary Janet Yellen frequently clashed with trade skeptics such as U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai. Biden quietly kept in place most of the tariffs that Trump had levied on China, but he began the final year of his first term without having added any new ones.

What changed the administrations calculus was the looming prospect of a second China shock, this time in the very industries the administration was working so hard to build up. By 2024, after decades of strategic state subsidies, China was producing two-thirds of the worlds electric vehicles, three-quarters of the worlds electric batteries, and 90 percent of the worlds solar panels, and selling them for much cheaper than the corresponding American products.

To the administration, the danger was clear. Without intervention, the American auto industry, which had only just begun its own transition to EVs, could be wiped out by cheaper Chinese imports. Other clean-energy industries would be crushed before they had time to benefit from the governments huge investments. The U.S. would become dependent on its biggest rival for some of the most important technologies in the world. Future demagogues would seize on the issue to win elections.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This nightmare scenario converted even longtime free-traders into tariff supporters. In March 2024, Yellen made a visit to the factory floor of Suniva, a Georgia-based firm that had been developing a cutting-edge process for manufacturing solar panels, only to file for bankruptcy in 2017 after Chinese panels began flooding the U.S. market. Bidens clean-energy investments had helped the company reopen, but it was still years away from reaching the scale needed to compete with Chinese firms. This was true across almost every clean-energy sector, Yellen told me. We felt we needed to be competitive in producing the energy sources of the future. But without protection, our companies would have stood no chance.

Last May, the Biden administration announced tariffs on a handful of Chinese goods in strategic sectors, including 25 to 50 percent tariffs on batteries, solar panels, medical supplies, semiconductors, and certain steel and aluminum products, and 100 percent tariffs on electric vehicles. The restrictions represented what is sometimes called a targeted tariffs approach, rooted in the belief that a select few industries are important enough to be protected from foreign competition, even at the cost of higher prices. If China were allowed to totally dominate solar panels, semiconductors, and cars, then the U.S. would end up reliant on a geopolitical adversary for its energy, military, and transportation infrastructure. And if the government stood by while industry after industry experienced a second China shock, the economic and political consequences would be severe.

Supporters of the targeted approach recognized that tariffs are a blunt tool that must be used sparingly, in combination with other strategies to bolster American industry. What the Biden team understood is you cant just do tariffs, Wallach told me. You need investment to build capacity in a home. You need to incentivize factory building. You need to work with allies to diversify sources of goods. Its a whole package.

The Biden tariffs, limited though they were, really did signal the emergence of a new consensus in Washington. Congressional Democrats were almost universally supportive, while Republicans were largely silent. A move that would recently have been considered beyond the pale had become conventional wisdom.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Heading into the 2024 election, several polls found that majorities of voters supported tariffs. Today, after months of tariff-related economic chaos, nearly every credible survey finds the opposite. Support for free trade, meanwhile, has never been higher. In Gallups most recent survey, 81 percent of Americans said that they view international trade as an opportunity as opposed to a threata 20-point jump from just a year prior and the highest percentage since Gallup started asking the question, in the early 1990s. To free-market economists, Trump has proved what they have known all along: Trade restrictionism is always a bad idea.

This argument drives pro-tariff liberals crazy. To them, the notion that Trumps policies would discredit tariffs in general is the equivalent of saying that the existence of fentanyl overdoses discredits taking Advil for a headache. Biden focused on a narrow set of goods from a single country; Trump has tariffed almost all goods from almost all countries. Bidens tariffs were one piece of a broader industrial strategy that included massive public investments; Trump has no plans for new investments and has threatened to repeal the ones that Biden passed. Biden implemented tariffs carefully and gradually; Trump jacked up tariffs on China by 125 percentage points in one day, and has since modified his tariff policies too many times to count. Biden supplemented tariffs by deepening trade relations with allies; Trump has threatened to tariff Americas allies into submission. Bidens tariffs provoked little to no retaliation from China and hardly registered in the stock market; Trumps tariffs have triggered a full-blown trade war. Its strange to even consider these the same kind of policy, Sullivan told me. Its like comparing a scalpel to a sledgehammer. They are totally different tools.

[From the June 2025 issue: The coming economic nightmare]

Several Democrats have responded to Trumps tariffs with a version of this argument. These include not just Rust Belt politicians (such as Representative Chris Deluzio of Pennsylvania, who attacked Trumps restrictions for being chaotic and inconsistent while acknowledging that tariffs remain a powerful tool) and outspoken progressive populists (such as Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren) but also the partys leaders. Tariffs, when properly utilized, have a role to play in trying to make sure that you have a competitive environment for our workers and our businesses, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said in a recent interview.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To Wallach, statements like these capture just how much progress Democrats have made on trade policy. To other observers, however, theyre political lunacy. Democrats attempts at nuance on tariffs have been widely mocked as an example of their inability to capitalize on Trumps mistakes. As the American public was screaming, Please, God, no! the Democrats were calmly whispering, Yes, but, my colleague Jonathan Chait witheringly wrote. Or, as The New Republics Jason Linkins put it, The dumbest thing Democrats could do right now is lend even a scintilla of credence to a bad presidents worst idea.

In the eyes of pro-tariff liberals, however, something bigger is at stake than political-messaging tactics. They see the old free-trade establishment using the cover of Trumps unpopular program to regain the territory they lost over the past decade. Free-market economists who oppose all trade restrictions have become fixtures on cable television. And some high-profile Democrats have started taking public stances that appear to be ripped from an Econ 101 textbook. Tariffs are bad outright because they lead to higher prices and destroy American manufacturing, Colorado Governor Jared Polis recently declared on X. Trade is inherently good because both parties emerge better off from a consensual transaction.

The pro-tariff liberals are afraid of where the debate is headed. We cant fall into this trap of thinking its either the Trump way or the Wall Street Journaleditorial-board way, Sherrod Brown told me. Neither of those options is good for American workers.

Now Wallach is fighting to salvage her lifes work. She has spent the past few months writing op-ed after op-ed, memo after memo, lengthy X post after X post, practically begging her fellow liberals not to give up on tariffs just because Trump has given them a bad name. She has poured countless hours into meeting with members of Congress, union leaders, and environmental groups in an effort to build a durable liberal pro-tariff coalition.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But if Wallach and her allies are pushing against the side of an aircraft carrier, trying to nudge it in their preferred direction, Trump is holding the steering wheel. According to the monthly Conference Board survey, consumer confidence recently fell to its lowest point since April 2020, while expectations for the next six months fell to its lowest point since October 2011. Thats despite the fact that the brunt of the economic pain from Trumps tariffs hasnt even been felt yet. If this goes on, attempts to distinguish between good and bad tariffs might sound about as convincing as attempts to distinguish between good and bad bedbug infestations.

Still, Wallach remains stubbornly confident that her side will prevail. I ultimately dont think were going back to the old trade consensus, she said. Democrats saw what 40 years of free trade brought us. And under Biden, they saw that a different kind of approach can work. I really do believe that will be enough.

Article originally published at The Atlantic
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Police announced Wednesday that an Oak Grove man, who is a bus driver with the Independence School District (ISD), has been charged in connection with sex crimes involving a person under the age of 12.

According to court records, Jackson County prosecutors charged 38-year-old Christopher Omenski with multiple child sex crimes committed between October 2020 and May 2025, including statutory rape and sodomy, as well as possession of child pornography.

Downtown Kansas City business owners issuing a warning: This isnt a political issueits a safety issue

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The charges were filed on Tuesday, May 6, nearly a month after the Oak Grove Police Department (OGPD) received a cybertip from the Internet Crimes Against Children Data System about a Google account associated with Omenski that downloaded a video containing child pornography, court records say.

This tip led to an investigation, and on Tuesday, Omenski was pulled over for a traffic stop and taken in for questioning.

While in police custody, court records say investigators took Omenskis phone and found images and videos relating to child pornography and exploitation. It was also reported that Omenski admitted to being part of an online group that would share similar types of explicit content.

Following the investigation, OGPD and the Jackson County Prosecutors Office issued a warrant for his arrest.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Omenski is now being held in the Jackson County Detention Center without bond.

City of Gardner gives residents at apartment complex 48 hours to move

After he was arrested, a spokesperson with ISD confirmed Omenski had worked in the school district as a bus driver. ISD issued the following statement Wednesday morning to families and students:

Dear ISD Families,

We want to inform you that one of our ISD Transportation employees has been placed on administrative leave pending an ongoing law enforcement investigation. There is no current evidence linking any ISD students to the allegations, nor are the reported actions alleged to have occurred in Independence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The ISD is working closely with law enforcement, and we are committed to maintaining a respectful and supportive educational environment for all students and staff. We appreciate your respect for the investigation, as well as your understanding that we cannot share additional, specific details. Further updates will be provided as necessary.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Additionally, the school district said it would have staff support available for any student in need.

If you suspect child abuse or neglect, police ask that you call the Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-392-3738.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is a developing story. Stay tuned at FOX4 News for the latest updates and information.

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.
Credit: Social media

India launched air strikes against Pakistan on Tuesday night, bringing the two nuclear-armed nations to the brink of war.

The Indian ministry of defence announced it had carried out strikes on nine sites, two weeks after armed militants killed 26 tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir.

The South Asian neighbours also exchanged intense shelling and heavy gunfire across much of their de facto border in the Himalayan region of Kashmir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Islamabad vowed to respond to what it called a cowardly and shameful attack launched by planes within Indian airspace.

Let me say it unequivocally: Pakistan will respond to this at a time and place of its own choosing. This heinous provocation will not go unanswered, said a spokesman for the military.

Smoke rises over Indian-administered Kashmir on Wednesday morning - Punit Paranjpe/AFP via Getty

Pakistan fully reserves the right to respond forcefully to this act of war imposed by India, and a forceful response is being given.

Indias defence ministry said that the strikes had targeted at least nine sites where terrorist attacks against India have been planned.

Pakistans army said that Indian missiles hit six locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, including the cities of Kotli and Muzaffarabad, and a mosque in the city of Bahawalpur in Punjab province.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif, Pakistans military spokesman, said that the Indian strikes killed at least 8 people, including women and children.

He said that the Indian jets also damaged infrastructure at a dam in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, calling it a violation of international norms.

Civilians were affected by Pakistani shelling in India - Nasir Kachroo/NurPhoto/Shutterstock

However, a statement from Indias army announcing the launch of Operation Sindoor, a reference to the red powder worn by married Hindu women, said: Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted.

Pakistan also claimed that it had shot down several Indian fighter jets in retaliation as two planes fell onto villages in India-controlled Kashmir. At least seven civilians were also killed in the region by Pakistani shelling, Indian police and medics said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

PTV, a state media service, reported that Pakistans army had brought down two Indian jets, citing security sources. Delhi had yet to respond to the claim on Tuesday night.

Donald Trump, the US president, said that he hoped fighting would end quickly when he was asked about the strikes at the Oval Office.

Credit: Reuters

India has accused Pakistan of orchestrating the Kashmir terrorist attack, one of the worst the country has suffered in decades.

Islamabad denies any involvement, with officials saying Delhi has not provided any evidence of its complicity.

The two nuclear-armed nations have fought several wars over Kashmir, which was divided during Partition in 1947.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Indias strikes hit the Subhanullah mosque in Bahawalpur, which Indian intelligence claims to be a headquarters for Jaish-e-Mohamed, a Pakistan-based terrorist group that has carried out attacks in Kashmir.

Footage posted on social media showed a huge orange explosion lighting up the night as onlookers watched from the side of the road. Pakistani officials claimed a child was killed in the strike.

Credit: Social Media

Also targeted was a rural area near Muzaffarabad once used by Lashkar-e-Taiba, the terrorist group behind the 2008 Mumbai attacks, in which 166 people were killed.

Inter-Services Intelligence, Pakistans spy agency, helped to organise the devastating massacre, according to the Pakistani-American mastermind of the attacks David Headley, under interrogation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It has maintained close links with terrorist groups that target India, at times funnelling fighters across the border into Indian-administered Kashmir.

However, Shahbaz Sharif, the Pakistani prime minister, has rejected Delhis claims that Islamabad was behind the Pahalgam attack, calling for a neutral investigation.

Indias missile strikes came on the same day that Narendra Modi, Indias prime minister, announced the signing of a trade deal with the UK.

Residents examine a building damaged by the Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad, Pakistan - AP

The United States has also grown closer to Delhi in recent months, with JD Vance, the vice-president, visiting before a potential tariff deal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tensions in the region have been high since the Kashmir terrorist attack on April 22, with Delhi announcing the end of its participation in the 1960 Indus water treaty, which regulates the flow of the Indus river between the two nations.

Before the strikes, Mr Modi said that Indias water will be used for Indias interests and the decision would not be reversed.

India last carried out air strikes across the Pakistani border in 2019, hitting what it described as a terrorist training camp in Balakot after militants killed 40 Indian soldiers.

This round of fighting may be harder to control, with a greater number of sites targeted inside Pakistan.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the past few days, Indian officials told The Telegraph that the nation remained deeply traumatised by the Mumbai attack and felt the security balance needed to be reassessed to prevent further iterations.

On Tuesday night, Khawaja Asif, Pakistans defence minister, said: We will give a far greater response than their own strike. Not only did they attack civilians but they did it from their own airspace.

Mark Rutte, the Nato secretary general, called for both sides to exercise restraint. The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan, he said.

Sadanand Dhume, a fellow of the American Enterprise Institute think tank, said that this flare-up of conflict had the potential to escalate beyond the tit-for-tat exchanges in 2019.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He wrote on X: In both 2019 and 2025, India explicitly signalled restraint. The message to Pakistan and the world: We had to do something, but we dont want this to get out of hand. The difference: In 2019 Pakistan played along. It launched a token counterstrike, showed magnanimity by returning a downed Indian MiG-21 pilot, and did not escalate further.

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.
NEW DELHI (Reuters) - The Indian Embassy in China on Wednesday dismissed as "disinformation" a social media post on X by China's state-run Global Times, which said that Pakistan had shot down Indian fighter jets.

The embassy's statement followed the Global Times post, which said that the Pakistan Air Force had downed Indian fighter jets in response to Indian missile strikes on Pakistan.

(Reporting by Surbhi Misra; Editing by Toby Chopra)
Indias military has launched Operation Sindoor, striking nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, prompting swift retaliation from Islamabad in the worst fighting in more than two decades between the nuclear-armed neighbours as fears of a wider, prolonged war grow.

Pakistan said on Wednesday that at least 26 people were killed and 46 others injured in the Indian attacks, accusing New Delhi of committing an act of war. India said at least eight people were killed by Pakistani shelling.

The leaders of both countries are holding crisis meetings on Wednesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Indian strike and counterattack by Pakistan come amid soaring tensions, after a deadly attack last month on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir that New Delhi blamed on Islamabad, which denied any involvement.

In a statement early on Wednesday, Indias government said its military had attacked terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed.

Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution, it said.

Residents examine a building damaged by a suspected Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir [MD Mughal/AP Photo]

The missiles struck locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and the countrys eastern Punjab province.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Al Jazeeras Kamal Hyder, reporting from Islamabad, said the cities of Muzaffarabad and Kotli, both in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, were among the targets of the Indian strikes.

Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, speaking to a foreign TV network, confirmed that at least five Indian aircraft have been shot down and that a number of Indian soldiers have been taken prisoner, Hyder said.

Pakistan said that it would respond to any Indian attack against Pakistan, and Pakistan is now responding to that Indian attack, he said.

Heavy shelling has now resumed on the Line of Control that separates Pakistan-administered Kashmir from Indian-administered Kashmir, he added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A Pakistani military spokesman had earlier told the broadcaster Geo that at least five locations, including two mosques, had been hit. He also said that Pakistans response was under way, without providing details.

In Punjab, missiles hit a mosque in the city of Bahawalpur, killing a child and wounding two civilians, the military said.

International Crisis Groups Senior Analyst for India, Praveen Donthi, says that the escalation between India and Pakistan has already reached a larger scale than during the last major crisis in 2019 with potentially dire consequences.

Domestic emotions are high on both sides, fuelling the danger of further escalation, he said, but India and Pakistan should choose diplomacy, as any further military action carries unacceptable risks.





Kashmir tensions escalate

Following Indias attacks, the armies of the two sides exchanged intense shelling and heavy gunfire across their frontier in disputed Kashmir in at least three places, the Reuters news agency reported, quoting police and witnesses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for maximum restraint from both sides.

The secretary-general is very concerned about the Indian military operations across the Line of Control and international border. He calls for maximum military restraint from both countries, Guterress spokesperson said.

The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan.

United States President Donald Trump said the clashes were a shame.

I just hope it ends very quickly, Trump said at the White House.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that he is also closely monitoring the situation, adding that he hopes it will end quickly.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The eruption of violence comes amid heightened tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours, in the aftermath of an attack on tourists in Pahalgam in Indian-administered Kashmir last month.

A girl who, according to relatives, was injured in cross-border shelling in the Uri sector, was rushed to hospital for treatment in India-administered Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday [Stringer/Reuters]

India blamed Pakistan for the violence, in which 26 men were killed, and promised to respond. Pakistan denied that it had anything to do with the killings.

Nitasha Kaul, the director of the Centre for the Study of Democracy at the University of Westminster, London, said the strikes are very concerning.

Once again, the worst affected are going to be the people in the region, the Kashmiris, who are caught between the competing and proprietorial and rival postures and attitudes of India and Pakistan, Kaul told Al Jazeera.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Still, she said, the escalation is not that surprising, because within India  there has been a domestic pressure building up for a more militarist response, given the fact that there is a particularly hyper-nationalist government in power.

In that sense, sadly, this was a countdown to a greater escalation, and hopefully it wont proceed much further beyond what has already happened with these strikes, Kaul added.




India launched military strikes on targets in Pakistan, both countries said on Wednesday and Pakistan claimed it had shot down five Indian Air Force jets, in an escalation that has pushed the two nations to the brink of wider conflict.

Indias missile strikes early Wednesday morning targeted terrorist infrastructure across nine sites in Pakistans densely populated Punjab province and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, it said. They came in response to a massacre by militants of tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir two weeks ago, that New Delhi blamed on its neighbor.

Pakistan said at least 26 people were killed in Wednesdays strikes  including women and a three-year-old girl  and 46 wounded. The countrys Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the strikes as an act of war and Islamabad has vowed to retaliate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

From early Wednesday the two sides have exchanged shelling across their border, with locals on both sides telling CNN they were taking shelter. A CNN journalist in Pakistan-administered Kashmir heard multiple loud explosions.

A shell landed at a house close to the mosque in which two people were injured. Shells also hit other houses in our area and we fled from our area to a safer place, said Shakeel Butt, a resident of Muzaffarabad, in Pakistani-administered Kashmir. A senior Indian defense source said at least eight people had been killed on the Indian side of the border.

Pakistani military sources later said they shot down five Indian Air Force jets and one drone in self-defense, claiming three Rafale jets  sophisticated multi-role fighters made in France  were among those downed as well as a MiG-29 and an SU-30 fighter.

A local resident and government official told CNN that an unidentified fighter aircraft had crashed on a school building in Indian-administered Kashmir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Photos published by AFP news agency showed aircraft wreckage lying in a field next to a red-brick building. But it was not immediately clear from the pictures of the wreckage who the aircraft belonged to.

CNN cannot independently verify the claim and has reached out to the Indian government for a response. At a later press conference where Indian officials said their strikes had targeted training camps belonging to militant groups Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), officials did not address the claims and took no questions from the media.

Deep strikes

Indian jets have previously bombed Pakistani territory following militant attacks on its soil but Wednesdays operation is the deepest India has struck inside its neighbor since the Indo-Pakistan war of 1971, the biggest of several wars between the two countries.

The situation is now obviously serious and fluid, said Fahd Humayun, an assistant professor of political science at Tufts University. Retaliation to Indias actions will likely now be inevitable.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

India dubbed its military action Operation Sindoor  a reference to the red vermilion, or powder, many Hindu women wear on their foreheads after marriage. It is a symbolic nod to Aprils massacre on civilians that left several women widowed.

World leaders and the United Nations have expressed concern over the strikes and have urged restraint from both countries. The US Department of State said it was closely monitoring the flare-up.

The wreckage of a jet that crashed in Wuyan, Indian-administered Kashmir, on Wednesday. - Basit Zargar/Middle East Images/AFP/Getty Images

Massacre fall out

Muslim-majority Pakistan and Hindu-majority India have inched closer to open conflict since gunmen massacred 26 people in a popular holiday spot in Indian-administered Kashmir last month, with Indias Hindu-nationalist government under intense pressure from its base to respond to the attack.

Pakistan was swift to deny any link to the attack but in the days following, both countries swiftly downgraded ties with each other and have since been engaging in escalating tit-for-tat hostilities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Analysts said it was a question of when, not if, India retaliated.

India said its strikes were focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature.

No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution, its defense ministry said in a statement.

The strikes have put the region on alert, with commercial airlines keeping almost entirely clear of Pakistani airspace, flight-tracking website Flightradar24 showed. The airport in Srinagar, Indian-administered Kashmirs biggest city, has been closed to civilian traffic, and several airlines have suspended or diverted flights to Pakistan and northwest India.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Video obtained by CNN on Wednesday showed chaotic scenes at a hospital in Pakistans Punjab province, as the wounded were rushed for treatment.

Local residents walk through rubble of a building damaged by an Indian missile strike, in Muridke, Pakistan, on Wednesday - K.M. Chaudary/AP

Historical flashpoint

Muslim-majority Kashmir has been a flashpoint in India-Pakistan relations since both countries gained their independence from Britain in 1947.

The two nations that emerged from the bloody partition of British India both claim Kashmir in full and, months after becoming independent, fought their first of three wars over the territory.

The divided region is now one of the most militarized places in the world.

For decades, several domestic militant groups, demanding either independence for Kashmir or for the area to become part of Pakistan, have fought Indian security forces, with tens of thousands killed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

India has long accused Pakistan of harboring these militant groups  a charge Islamabad denies  and had vowed to retaliate against those they deemed responsible.

Tensions over Kashmir have also surged in recent years, after Indian Prime Minister Modis government revoked the regions constitutional autonomy in 2019, bringing it under the direct control of New Delhi.

Observers say a response from Pakistan to the strikes will be likely, and concern now turns to how to manage what comes next.

Pakistans response is sure to come. The challenge would be to manage the next level of escalation. This is where crisis diplomacy will matter, said Ajay Bisaria, former high commissioner of India to Pakistan.

CNNs Manveena Suri, Azaz Syed, Lex Harvey, Dhruv Tikekar, Brad Lendon and Nectar Gan contributed to this story.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
India launched missile strikes on nine alleged terrorist sites in Pakistan early Wednesday morning.

The attacks follow in the wake of contentious territorial, political and religious disputes between India and Pakistan that began with the partition of India in 1947 and most recently escalated with an attack by a Kashmiri rebel cell last month that killed more than 20 Indian citizens.

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri told media on Wednesday morning that Indian intelligence had discerned that further Pakistani strikes were imminent and that India was only exercis(ing) its right to respond and pre-empt as well as deter ... more cross-border attacks in Wednesday mornings strikes, which they have titled Operation Sindoor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistani officials condemned the airstrikes, claiming they violated international laws and norms.

The government, armed forces and people of Pakistan stand united in the face of Indian aggression, Islamabad declared in a statement. They will always act with iron resolve to protect and preserve the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan.

Islamabad denied Indian assertions that only terrorist targets had been struck.

An army soldier stands guard on the rooftop of a mosque building damaged by a suspected Indian missile attack near Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan controlled Kashmir, on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. | M.D. Mughal

India and Pakistan have fought three wars since they divided in 1947. Two of those conflicts trace back to disputes over Kashmir, which is divided into Indian-administered and Pakistan-administered regions.

Civilians dead, mosques destroyed in Pakistan; Pakistan shoots down Indian aircraft in return

Indian officials bombed targets across Punjab and Kashmir, killing at least 31 and wounding 46, according to Pakistani reports.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistan reported that it shot down Indian fighter jets and drones. Pakistan has not shared evidence and Indian foreign ministry officials have called such reports disinformation.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif pledged to respond to the attacks.

He again claimed that Pakistan was completely unconnected to the attack on Kashmir last week.

President Donald Trump responds to India-Pakistan fighting

In the Oval Office on Wednesday, Trump told reporters he hoped to tamp down fighting in the region.

I want to see it stop. And if I can do anything to help, I will be there, he said.
(NewsNation)  Tensions are growing between India and Pakistan after the two countries launched attacks against each other in recent weeks.

Pakistan has responded to Indias deadly airstrikes in its country and Kashmir, calling them an act of war. India said the attacks were retaliation for an attack that happened last month that killed Indian tourists.

Both countries have vowed revenge, and there is now concern of a potential nuclear attack, as both countries are armed with nuclear weapons and have a history of grievances between them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sistine Chapel doors close as conclave begins to elect next pope

Theyve been fighting for a long time, President Donald Trump said during a press briefing Tuesday. I just hope it ends very quickly.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed Trumps remarks of wanting a quick end and peaceful resolution between the two countries, taking on social media platform X where he also said he is monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan very closely.

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.
Tensions between India and Pakistan remain high days after Delhi launched airstrikes on its neighbor, sparking tit-for-tat military action from both sides this week and widespread confusion as competing claims and disinformation spread online.

Many countries are calling for restraint, fearing a wider devastating conflict could erupt. And they are also watching closely to see how weapons from both sides, acquired from China and parts of Europe, fare against each other in conflict. Saudi Arabias minister of state for foreign affairs arrived in Pakistans capital on Friday on a potential mission to calm tensions. The same day, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy spoke to both his Indian and Pakistani counterparts.

The latest escalation between the longtime foes has killed dozens on both sides so far. Indias initial Wednesday airstrikes killed at least 31 people and wounded 46 others, while Pakistani shelling from across the border have killed at least 16 civilians in the India-administered part of the disputed region of Kashmir, according to military and defense officials from both sides.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Further casualties were reported after both sides alleged drone strikes from the other  though Pakistan has denied carrying out such an attack, and India has not yet responded to the claims. CNN has not been able to independently verify these figures.

Meanwhile on the ground, fear and panic have set in on both sides of the border, especially in Kashmir, with residents sheltering in bunkers and reporting the sounds of explosions. Videos and photos show houses reduced to rubble, and streets deserted as people stay home.

The Indian Premier League cricket tournament, the most popular and richest league in the world, has been suspended for one week, said the sports national governing board, citing concern for the players.

The trigger for all this was a massacre in April that saw gunmen storm a scenic mountain spot in India-administered Kashmir and kill 26 people, mostly Indian tourists. India blamed Pakistan for the attack, which Islamabad denied.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Heres what we know so far.

What happened with Indias initial strikes?

India launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of Wednesday morning local time (Tuesday night ET) in both Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Indian officials claimed no Pakistani civilian, economic or military sites were struck in the 25-minute operation, which targeted the terrorist infrastructure of two militant groups  Lashkar-e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Indian officials argued the strikes were a proportionate response to the April massacre, and that Pakistans response afterward escalated the situation.

But Pakistan is painting a different picture of the strikes  saying civilians were killed and mosques were hit across six locations. CNN has yet to verify those claims.

Members of the media film the inside of a building after it was hit by an Indian strike in Bahawalpur, Pakistan, May 7, 2025. - Reuters

Some of those strikes hit the densely populated province of Punjab, Pakistans military said, and were the deepest India has struck inside Pakistan since one of their wars in 1971.

How did Pakistan respond? Did it shoot down Indias jets?

After the initial attack on Wednesday, Pakistan claimed it had used Chinese-made fighter jets to shoot down down five Indian Air Force jets  including three Rafales, sophisticated French-made jets that New Delhi only acquired a few years ago.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Uncertainty continues to swirl around these claims, as Indias government and military have stayed silent on the matter. CNN has been unable to verify the claim, and has reached out to the Indian Air Force and Ministry of Defense for comment.

But both the United States and France have assessed that Pakistan shot down at least one Rafale, senior officials from both countries told CNN. France is still investigating whether any more jets were brought down.

And multiple reports of plane crashes in Indian territory have emerged.

In Indias Punjab state, eyewitnesses and a local government official told CNN a plane crashed out of the night sky in the early hours of Wednesday  around the same time Pakistan claims it shot down the jets. The official told CNN the aircraft was unidentified but seems to be ours.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In Indian-administered Kashmir, eyewitnesses and a local official in the village of Wuyan said an unidentified aircraft crashed on Wednesday. Photos by AFP news agency showed plane wreckage, though its unclear who the aircraft belongs to or what brought it down.

What have both sides done since?

India said on Thursday it has targeted air defense systems in several locations in Pakistan  after initially saying it would not target Pakistani military installations.

On Friday both countries alleged the other had launched attacks or carried out firing during the previous night. An Indian military official claimed Pakistan targeted 36 Indian sites with 300 to 400 drones overnight on Thursday  which Islamabad has denied.

The official also said Pakistans military fired heavy-caliber artillery guns across the Line of Control that divides Kashmir, resulting in the deaths and injuries of some Indian army personnel. She added that Pakistans army also suffered major losses in Indian retaliatory fire.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Speaking to CNN on Friday, a senior Pakistani government source strongly rejected assertions that Pakistan had launched drone strikes against India. While acknowledging heavy shelling across the Line of Control, the source said Pakistan had not yet used any of its drones.

CNN is unable to verify either of these claims, and has reached out to both Pakistani and Indian governments for comment.

On Thursday, Pakistans information ministry claimed their forces have killed between 40 and 50 Indian soldiers along the Line of Control. CNN cannot verify the figures, and has sought comment from the Indian defense ministry.

The ongoing conflict and back-and-forth claims have sowed confusion and disruption on both sides of the border, with blackouts, drills and flight changes impacting daily life.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A resident living in Pakistani-administered Kashmir told CNN on Friday that tensions are high for those living near the de facto border. Our area is not in liveable condition. There has been heavily shelling in the area, Mukhtar Qureshi, a local resident from a village at the Chakothi sector, said.

Volunteers load a body into an ambulance after recovering it from a mosque damaged by an Indian missile strike near Muzaffarabad, in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, on Wednesday. - MD Mughal/AP

What prompted all of this? What is Kashmir?

Muslim-majority Kashmir has been a flashpoint in India-Pakistan relations since both countries gained their independence from Britain in 1947.

The two nations to emerge from the bloody partition of British India  Hindu-majority India and Muslim-majority Pakistan  both claim Kashmir in full and, months after becoming independent, fought their first of three wars over the territory.

The divided region is now one of the most militarized places in the world.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

India has long accused Pakistan of harboring militant groups there that conduct attacks across the border, something Islamabad has long denied.

The massacre in the tourist hotspot of Pahalgam in April sparked widespread anger in India, putting heavy pressure on the Hindu-nationalist government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

India immediately blamed Islamabad, sparking tit-for-tat retaliatory measures in which both countries downgraded ties, canceled visas for each others citizens, and saw India pull out of a key water-sharing treaty.

What could come next?

The last India-Pakistan war over Kashmir in 1999 killed more than 1,000 Pakistani troops, by the most conservative estimates.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the decades since, the two countries have clashed multiple times, most recently in 2019 when India conducted airstrikes in Pakistan after it blamed Islamabad for a suicide car bomb attack in the region.

But those recent clashes did not explode into all-out war. Both sides are aware of the risks; since 1999, the two countries have worked to strengthen their militaries, including arming themselves with nuclear weapons.

CNNs Hira Humayun and Nic Robertson contributed to this story.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Protesters in Hyderabad, Pakistan, burn an Indian flag during a demonstration condemning a missile attack on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. Credit - Pervez MasihAP

The long-simmering tensions between India and Pakistan are on the cusp of boiling over. India launched a series of missiles into Pakistan-controlled territory after midnight local time, early Wednesday, May 7, killing at least 26 people and injuring dozens of others, according to Pakistani officials.

Its the most extensive missile strike by India on Pakistan during official peacetime, though Pakistans Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called it an act of war and warned of a befitting reply.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The strike will not go unanswered, Pakistans ministry of information and broadcasting announced. The temporary pleasure of India will be replaced by enduring grief.

Pakistans Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif told AFP: The retaliation has already started. We wont take long to settle the score.

Ambulances leave a complex near the site of a missile attack, in Muridke, a town in Pakistans Punjab province, on May 7, 2025. K.M. ChaudaryAP

Operation Sindoor and the Pahalgam attack

Indias attackwhich struck at least six locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and in Pakistans eastern Punjab province across a total of 24 strikes, according to Pakistani officialscame amid escalating conflict in the contested Kashmir region since an April 22 attack by a Pakistani militant group on tourists in the town of Pahalgam in Indian-administered Kashmir.

India accused Pakistan of being involved in the Pahalgam attack, which killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepalese national and injured dozens more. The Pakistani government denied involvement and called for a neutral investigation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Since then, there have been tit-for-tat escalations from both sides, including exchanges of gunfire between Indian and Pakistani troops along the border, the expelling of diplomats and nationals on both sides, the closing of airspace to each others airlines, and suspension of trade. India has also said it will stop the flow of water from India to Pakistana move that Pakistani officials previously warned would be considered an act of war.

Read More: How India Is Threatening to Weaponize Water in Its Conflict With Pakistan

The May 7 airstrikes were dubbed Operation Sindoor by Indian officials, after the Hindi word for the vermilion powder mark that Hindu women apply as a dot to their foreheads and in apparent reference to those left widowed after the Pahalgam attack.

Indias External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar posted on X, The world must show zero tolerance for terrorism alongside an image of the words Operation Sindoor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

India has credible leads, technical inputs, testimony of survivors and other evidence pointing towards the clear involvement of Pakistan-based terrorists in the [April 22] attack, the Indian Embassy in Washington said in a Tuesday statement.

Indias Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said at a Wednesday press conference in New Delhi that intelligence suggested further attacks against India were impending. There was thus the compulsion both to deter and to preempt.

Minutes before the missile attack was confirmed, the Indian army posted on X a video of Indian forces tanks and ammunition with the caption Ready to Strike, Trained to Win. Shortly after, the army posted, Justice is Served. Jai Hind!

Indias Defense Ministry said in a statement that its missile strikes were targeting at least nine sites where terrorist attacks against India have been planned. The statement added: Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistan military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution.

Indian para-military force soldiers stand guard at Pampore in Pulwama district of Indian-controlled Kashmir, Wednesday, May 7, 2025. Dar YasinAP

Pakistans response

The locations hit in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir include its capital Muzaffarabad as well as Kotli and Bagh, and in the Punjab province include Ahmedpur Sharqia (near Bahawalpur), Muridke, and Shakargarh. Pakistani officials told broadcaster Geo that India targeted civilian sites, including mosques, and labeled Indias claim of targeting terrorist infrastructure false. Pakistani officials said a three-year-old girl was among the civilians killed by the strikes. Indias strikes also hit infrastructure at a hydroelectric dam in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, according to Pakistans Armed Forces, which called the shelling a clear violation of international law.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistan closed schools in Kashmir and the Punjab province in the wake of the attack. Several flights were cancelled or diverted out of Pakistans airspace, including flights under Korean Air, Air France, Lufthansa, Air India, and Qatar Airways.

Pakistani officials said that Pakistans air force shot down five Indian jets in retaliation to the attack, two of which hit buildings including a school in India-controlled Kashmir villages. Indias Press Information Bureau said social media posts claiming that Pakistan destroyed the Indian Brigade Headquarters were false.

Indian officials also said Wednesday that at least seven civilians were killed and dozens injured by arbitrary firing by Pakistani troops across the Line of Control. Pakistan said another five of its civilians had been killed Wednesday from artillery fire along the Line of Control, the AP reported. Indias army said its forces were responding appropriately in a calibrated manner.

Pakistans Foreign Ministry said in a statement that Indian leadership has once again used the bogey of terrorism to advance its sham narrative of victimhood, jeopardizing regional peace and security. Indias reckless action has brought the two nuclear-armed states closer to a major conflict.

Students take part in an emergency simulation drill at a school in Kolkata on May 7, 2025, as border tensions surge. Dibyangshu SarkarAFP/Getty Images

U.N., U.S., China, and others urge de-escalation

The United Nations called for the nuclear-armed neighbors to exercise maximum military restraint. The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a note issued by his spokesperson.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The U.S. and China also both called for de-escalation.

China finds Indias military operation early this morning regrettable. We are concerned about the ongoing situation, Chinas Foreign Ministry spokesperson said in a statement. India and Pakistan are and will always be each others neighbors. Theyre both Chinas neighbors as well. China opposes all forms of terrorism. We urge both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, remain calm, exercise restraint and refrain from taking actions that may further complicate the situation.

China has previously quarrelled with both Pakistan and India over other parts of Kashmir. It reached an agreement with Pakistan in 1963 to establish the border between the two countries; however, India rejects the validity of that agreement and continues to dispute Chinas claims to part of eastern Kashmir. Today, China is the largest investor in Pakistan, with $62 billion invested into the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor since 2015.

The U.S., meanwhile, has long acted as a mediator between India and Pakistan, including in 1999 when there was concern that 10 weeks of fighting could escalate into a nuclear conflict as well as in 2019 when then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo convinced each side that the other was not preparing for nuclear war, according to his memoir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In recent years, India has stepped up its relationship with the U.S., buying billions of dollars of American military equipment, while Islamabad has had a tense relationship with Washington, particularly as popular former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who has since been imprisoned on charges of corruption he claims are politically motivated, accused the U.S. of orchestrating his ouster. As such, Pakistan has increasingly turned to China to acquire its weapons.

And while Beijing has in recent months been working to improve its ties with New Delhi, the U.S. has for years developed its relationship with India explicitly to counter the influence of China in the region. President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have met several times over Trumps first and second presidential terms, and during Modis visit to Washington in February, the two discussed deepening defense ties.

After Indias May 7 strikes on Pakistan, U.S. National Security Advisor and Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with both India and Pakistans national security advisors, urging both countries to keep lines of communication open and avoid escalation, according to the Department of State.

Trump called the strikes a shame, telling reporters at the White House: I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. Theyve been fighting for a long time, theyve been fighting for many many decades, and centuries actually if you really think about it. (India and Pakistan have disputed the Kashmir region since their partition from British India in 1947.) I just hope it ends very quickly, Trump added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

California Democrat Rep. Ro Khanna, the ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee and co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, said on CNN that the U.S. needs to be an honest broker for de-escalation.

The U.A.E., which previously mediated tensions between India and Pakistan in 2021, was among several other countries that also urged calm, calling on both sides to exercise restraint, de-escalate tensions, and avoid further escalation that could threaten regional and international peace.

So far, it seems, only one country has appeared to publicly take a side: Israel, which is engaged in its own war in Gaza that India has supported. Israels ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, posted on X: Israel supports Indias right for self defense. Terrorists should know theres no place to hide from their heinous crimes against the innocent.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
India has carried out strikes on what it has described as terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir in response to last months deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, further raising tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

Pakistan said on Wednesday that at least 31 people were killed and dozens of others injured in the Indian attacks. In retaliatory attacks by Pakistani forces, at least 10 people have been killed in Indian-administered Kashmir.

Islamabad said civilians were targeted in Indias strikes, while Indias defence ministry said its forces only hit bases from where attacks on India are planned and directed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

India has blamed Pakistan for the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, that killed 26 people. Islamabad has denied it played any role and called for a neutral investigation into the worst attack on tourists in Kashmir in a quarter century  a call rejected by India.

India claims Pakistan has provided a haven for armed groups, which have carried out deadly attacks, including the 2008 Mumbai attack and the 2019 Pulwama attack. More than 200 people, including security forces, were killed in the two attacks combined.

Amid soaring tensions, international leaders have called for restraint after New Delhis biggest attack on Pakistan and territory it controls in decades.

Islamabad has long welcomed mediation or international involvement to resolve the decades-old conflict over Kashmir, which lies at the heart of their broader dispute, but New Delhi has tried to avoid internationalisation of the conflict. Both India and Pakistan claim Kashmir, but each controls a part of it  with China also administering a chunk of northern Kashmir.





Here is what you need to know about the international efforts to calm tensions between the nuclear-armed nations.

What have countries said so far about the escalation?

While reactions from the international community continue to trickle in, there is an overwhelming consensus that both countries should exercise maximum restraint.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

United States: Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with the national security advisers of India and Pakistan on Wednesday, urging the two sides to keep lines of communication open and avoid escalation, the US State Department said. Rubio said he would continue to stay engaged with both sides, was monitoring the situation between the neighbours closely and hoping for a peaceful resolution.

United Kingdom: The UK too has offered to play a diplomatic role in the India-Pakistan conflict. We stand ready to support both countries, UK Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds told BBC Radio.

Both have a huge interest in regional stability, in dialogue, in de-escalation and anything we can do to support that, we are here and willing to do. The conflict dates back to the 1947 partition of the Indian subcontinent by British colonial rulers into India and Pakistan.

China: Beijing called Indias attack regrettable while urging both sides to exercise restraint. Theyre both Chinas neighbours as well. China opposes all forms of terrorism, the Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

France: Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said that while Indias desire to protect itself from the scourge of terrorism was understandable, it called on both countries to avoid escalation and protect civilians.

United Nations: Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the international community could not afford a military confrontation between the nuclear-armed nations.





Who has offered to mediate?

Prior to Indias much-anticipated attack, a number of countries said they would be willing to get involved to help de-escalate the continuing crisis.

China: After Pakistan suggested that China could play a role in an international probe to investigate the Pahalgam attack, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun welcomed fair and just investigations at an early date. He urged dialogue and consultation to  uphold regional peace and stability.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Russia: Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told his Pakistani counterpart Ishaq Dar that Moscow was ready to act for a political settlement of the situation, in the case there was a mutual willingness on the part of Islamabad and New Delhi, his ministry said in a statement. Lavrov spoke to Dar on May 4, two days after speaking to Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar.

Malaysia: Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in a post on X expressed support for Pakistans call for an independent and transparent investigation into the Pahalgam attack. Malaysia remains open to playing a constructive role, should the need arise, he added, suggesting a willingness to mediate if acceptable to New Delhi and Islamabad.

Iran: Tehran was willing to use its good offices in Islamabad and New Delhi to forge greater understanding at this difficult time, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on X, four days after the Pahalgam attack.

What positions do Pakistan and India hold on mediation over Kashmir?

India has stationed more than half a million forces in the part of Kashmir it administers, to quash decades-old armed rebellion. Ties between the neighbours have been practically frozen since Indias right-wing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government stripped Kashmir of its special status in 2019.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The two countries have fought three out of four wars over the Himalayan region. They briefly stood on the brink of war in the wake of a deadly attack in 2019 on Indian soldiers in Indian-administered Kashmir.

Indias longstanding position on Kashmir is that the issue remains a bilateral one between New Delhi and Islamabad, and it has historically rejected any third party from mediating in the conflict. India cites the Simla Agreement, a 1972 pact between the nations that spoke of the bilateral resolution of disputes, to buttress its position.

Senior analyst at the International Crisis Group, Praveen Donthi, believes Indias suspicion of foreign involvement in the Kashmir conflict is derived from the view that international invention would amount to levelling the field.

India considers its claims to be stronger, Donthi told Al Jazeera. India, he added, sees itself as a regional power and would like to use its heft to negotiate with Pakistan bilaterally.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 1948, the UN Security Council passed Resolution 47 mandating the holding of a plebiscite in the territory, giving residents a choice between joining India or Pakistan.

On the other hand, Pakistan has been open to third-party mediation from individual countries and global organisations like the UN. Pakistan has regularly brought up the Kashmir issue at different UN forums, calling on the organisation to help solve the conflict.

The UN human rights council and international rights organisations have accused India of rights violations in Indian-administered Kashmir.

Rabia Akhtar, director at the Centre for Security, Strategy and Policy Research at the University of Lahore, said Pakistan seeks third-party mediation over the Kashmir conflict because it sees it as a matter of international concern given deep humanitarian, legal and political dimensions of the conflict.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

With limited leverage in direct bilateral engagement since India continues to shun it, Islamabad sees international mediation as the only way to level the diplomatic playing field and keep the issue alive globally, she told Al Jazeera.

Has a third party previously mediated between Pakistan and India?

While India has consistently opposed third-party mediation over the Kashmir conflict, external involvement has played a key role in helping pause previous wars and military standoffs between the two neighbours.

The second war between India and Pakistan in 1965 ended with the two nations signing the Tashkent Declaration in January 1966, after it was brokered by the Soviet Union.

The accord saw the Indian Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and Pakistani President Mohammad Ayub Khan agree to a mutual withdrawal to pre-war positions and the restoration of diplomatic and economic ties.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 1999, during the Kargil War, Pakistani-backed rebels and soldiers crossed the Line of Control (LoC)  the de facto border dividing Kashmir between Indian-administered and Pakistan-administered parts  and took over positions on the Indian side. However, former US President Bill Clinton successfully pressured then Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to withdraw Pakistani forces, using the threat of international isolation.

The 10-week fighting over the snowy heights of Kargil led to the deaths of nearly 1,000 soldiers and fighters on both sides.

Akhtar said that historically, third-party mediation has played a critical role in de-escalating India-Pakistan tensions.

Both countries lack bilateral crisis mechanisms and have outsourced escalation control to third parties, she said. Traditionally, these backchannels have been run by the US, China, United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While she noted that such efforts had failed to resolve the Kashmir issue, they have helped both sides save face and step back from the brink.

In the current crisis, discreet backchannel facilitation, not formal mediation, may be the most viable option, she added.

Donthi from the International Crisis Group said mediation will be difficult as both sides show a greater appetite for risk, driven by domestic pressures, adding that they are already at a higher point on the escalatory ladder.

It will need coordinated and sustained international pressure from all the friendly nations and major powers.
Indian army soldiers patrol the area in their armored vehicles near the site of plane crash on May 7, 2025 in Wuyan, south of Srinagar, India. Credit - Yawar NazirGetty Images

Early Wednesday morning, India carried out air strikes in Pakistans Punjab province and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. In a statement, New Delhi said they targeted terrorist infrastructure and that the strikes were in retaliation for the Apr. 22 attack that killed 26 tourists in India-administered Kashmir, which New Delhi blamed on Pakistan. As I wrote for TIME several days ago, some type of Indian military action was widely expected.

While New Delhi described the operation as non-escalatory, this is clearly not how Pakistanwhich denies any involvement in the Apr. 22 attackviewed them. It denounced the strikes, the most intense in Pakistan since a 1971 conflict, as an act of war. It claimed they hit civilian targets, including a mosque, and killed at least 31 people.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistan immediately launched a response, including intense shelling on Indias side of the de facto border, which Indias army said killed at least 15 civilians. Pakistan also claims to have downed several Indian jets in India-administered Kashmir (Indian officials acknowledged the crash of three Indian planes, but they say the reasons arent clear).

Escalation risks are extremely high, given the scale of hostilities and the dark moods in both capitals. With India having hit PunjabPakistans most populous and prosperous province, and home to the capital and military headquartersPakistan may opt to strike targets beyond India-administered Kashmir. That then raises the risk of additional Indian strikes on Pakistan, including military sitesand especially if the initial Pakistani response, as claimed by Islamabad, went after Indian military targets. Under such scenarios, it would be hard not to worry about the risk of nuclear escalation.

With the crisis evolving so quickly, speculation about possible next moves and countermoves has limited utility. The better question to ask is what will it take to get to de-escalation. Many key capitalsWashington, London, Riyadh, Doha, Abu Dhabiare on friendly terms with both India and Pakistan and will be working the phones in the coming hours and days to urge the two sides to come back from the brink. But that will only be effective if they can convince New Delhi and Islamabad that their interests are best served by opting for off-ramps.

During the last few India-Pakistan crises, in 2016 and 2019, de-escalation came relatively quickly. But the scale and intensity of hostilities was not nearly as high as now. Ultimately, for the two sides to agree to wind down, theyll need to be able to claim a victory that allows them to save face.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

India might believe its initial strikes constitute that victory. Its stated goal was to degrade the militant infrastructure that it claims facilitated the Kashmir attack. Its military operations did hit areas, particularly in Punjab, known to house the two most potent anti-India jihadist groups, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). (CBS News reportedly obtained a statement from JeM leader Masood Azhar claiming Indias strikes killed 10 of his family members and four close associates. Whereas in 2019, India took heat from Pakistan and independent analysts who argued that strikes in Khyber-Pakhtunkwa province meant to hit JeM targets instead simply hit trees.) New Delhi may feel it can point to the scale of todays strikes, and their location, to justify this to the Indian public as mission accomplished.

Pakistans criteria for being able to claim victory are tougher to decipher. Ideally, it will want to get to a point where it believes it has restored deterrence against the kind of actions New Delhi undertook Wednesday morning. It may also settle for a more concrete achievement that represents a considerable blow to the Indian military; if the Indian jets that crashed are proven to have been downed by the Pakistani military, that could provide a potential off-ramp for Islamabad to embrace. But given the state of play, with Pakistan having described the Indian strikes as an act of war, Islamabad may be looking to achieve more against India. And if Pakistan ramps up its response, India may no longer be content to call it a day after its initial operation.

Today, India and Pakistan are arguably closer to war than at any time in recent years. The risk isnt merely one of escalation. Its also the fear that it will take dangerously long for each side to be incentivized to pursue de-escalation.

Write to Michael Kugelman at michael.kugelman@wilsoncenter.org.
Indian airstrikes deep into Pakistan and retaliatory shelling across the border have put the subcontinent on edge once again, with many fearing a further escalation between the two nuclear neighbors.

At least 26 people were killed on May 6, 2025, by missiles launched by India, according to Pakistani authorities. India says it targeted terrorist infrastructure sites in the operation in response to an attack on April 22 that saw dozens of tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir killed by gunmen.

Pakistan warned it would respond at a time, place and manner of its choosing. Meanwhile, shelling by Pakistan across the line of control separating the Indian- and Pakistani-controlled parts of Kashmir killed 15 people, India says.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It represents the most serious fighting between the two countries in decades. But Kashmir has long been a source of tension between India and Pakistan, as articles from The Conversations archive explain.

1. The roots of the conflict

The dispute over Kashmir, which sits on the northern tip of the Indian subcontinent and borders Pakistan to the west, can be traced back to the partition of India in 1947 and the policies of colonial British rule that preceded it.

As Sumit Ganguly, an expert of Indian politics and foreign policy, explains, the British gave the rulers of nominally autonomous princely states the choice of which country they wanted to join post-partition: Muslim-majority Pakistan or Hindu-majority India. This put Maharaja Hari Singh, the monarch of Jammu and Kashmir, in a tricky position  he was a Hindu ruling over a predominantly Muslim population.

India, which was created as a secular state, wanted to incorporate Kashmir to demonstrate that a predominantly Muslim region could thrive in a Hindu-majority country committed to secularism. Pakistan, on the other hand, sought Kashmir because of its physical proximity and Muslim majority, writes Ganguly.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While Singh was still deliberating, a rebellion broke out in Kashmir, with newly independent Pakistan giving the insurgents support. India sent troops in on condition that Singh formally accede to India, and the first of four Indian-Pakistan wars began in 1947. It ended with Pakistan gaining control of a third of the disputed region.

Neither country has wholly reconciled itself to Kashmirs status. India claims the state in its entirety, as it became a part of its territory legally. Pakistan, however, has historically held the view that Kashmir was ceded to India by a ruler who did not represent its majority Muslim population. Indeed, this dispute between two nuclear-armed powers remains a potential global flashpoint, Ganguly adds.

Read more: 75 years ago, Britain's plan for Pakistani and Indian independence left unresolved conflicts on both sides  especially when it comes to Kashmir

2. More than a border dispute

But to see Kashmir solely through the lens of Indian-Pakistani rivalry would do the complicated conflict a disservice. Often neglected in this reading is the views of many Kashmiris themselves, many of whom would prefer independence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chitralekha Zutshi, a professor of history at William & Mary, notes that the desire for autonomy by groups in the region has resulted in numerous independence movements and repeated uprisings.

Fighters from the pro-independence Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front parade in 1991. Mushtaq Ali/AFP via Getty Images

Pakistan has supported some of these movements, a fact that India has seized upon to write off unrest in the Kashmir Valley as a byproduct of its territorial dispute with Pakistan, Zutshi writes. But in so doing, the grievances of an entire generation of young Kashmiris who view India as an occupying power have been ignored, the scholar continues.

She concludes: The Kashmir dispute cannot be resolved bilaterally by India and Pakistan alone  even if the two countries were willing to work together to resolve their differences. This is because the conflict has many sides.

Read more: Kashmir conflict is not just a border dispute between India and Pakistan

3. A water war?

Backing up the claim that the views of Kashmiris are often neglected is the fact that the Indus Waters Treaty  a crucial decades-old agreement that allows Pakistan and India to share water use from the regions rivers  was drawn up largely without the input of Kashmiri people, writes Fazlul Haq, a research scientist at Ohio State University.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Haq, who helps run the universitys Indus Basin Water Project, explains that even before the latest flare-up of violence, a dispute over the treaty was causing tension between India and Pakistan. The problem was that the original treaty, hailed as a success for many years, didnt take into account the impact of climate change. Melting glaciers have put the long-term sustainability of the treaty at risk, jeopardizing the water supply for more than 300 million people.

Despite being the primary source of water for the basin, Kashmiris have had no role in negotiations or decision-making under the treaty, Haq writes. Nor did it provide a mechanism for any regional disputes. Tensions over hydropower projects in Kashmir were bringing India and Pakistan toward diplomatic deadlock long before the recent attack, Haq notes.

The treaty now exists in a state of limbo. While it technically remains in force, Indias formal notice for review has introduced uncertainty, halting key cooperative mechanisms and casting doubt on the treatys long-term durability, Haq writes. Pakistan has said any attempt to disrupt its water supply under the treaty would be considered an act of war.

Read more: Tensions over Kashmir and a warming planet have placed the Indus Waters Treaty on life support

4. On the precipice of a new war?

There have been four full-scale conflicts between India and Pakistan: in 1947, 1965, 1971 and 1999.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But since the turn of the millennium, cross-border skirmishes in Kashmir have largely been contained, in part due to external pressure from the United States and others who fear the economic and regional consequences of a conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbors.

International relations expert Ian Hall, of Griffith University in Australia, writes that the calculus has changed a little. He notes that there is little economic cost to escalation, with practically no trade between India and Pakistan.

The main concern for both sides now is the political cost they would suffer from not taking military action, Hall adds.

Read more: India and Pakistan have fought many wars in the past. Are we on the precipice of a new one?

5. The need for a Pakistan-India hotline

During past crises between Pakistan and India, Washington has played an important role in deescalating tensions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

U.S. President Donald Trumps recent comments that he believes Pakistan and India will figure it out one way or the other suggests this is one occasion in which the U.S. may take a back seat.

But as Syed Ali Zia Jaffery at the University of Lahore and Nicholas John Wheeler at the University of Birmingham in the U.K. note, that creates a problem.

The absence of a trusted confidential line of communication between the leaders of India and Pakistan is a major barrier to empathetic communication. It prevents the two reaching a proper appreciation of shared vulnerabilities that is so critical to crisis de-escalation, they write.

Their article uses the example of the Cuban missile crisis of 1962 to tout the importance of what the two scholars describe as empathetic channels of communication. U.S. President John F. Kennedy and his Soviet counterpart, Nikita Khrushchev, exchanged a series of letters in which they acknowledged and expressed their shared vulnerability to nuclear war, Jaffery and Wheeler write. Establishing mutual empathy and a bond of trust were critical to the peaceful resolution of the crisis.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Such a hotline between the highest levels of Indian and Pakistani diplomacy would be an important step towards preventing these crises from spinning out of control. More crucially, it could play a pivotal role in managing crises when they do occur, offering a vital channel for reassurance and de-escalation, Jaffery and Wheeler add.

Read more: Why a hotline is needed to help bring India and Pakistan back from the brink of a disastrous war
At least three civilians were killed by Pakistani shelling in the Indian-controlled part of the disputed Kashmir region, according to Indian reports.

The Pakistani military fired indiscriminately across the line of control, the de facto frontier dividing Kashmir into two parts, media reports quoted military sources as saying.

The reports cited the Indian Army as saying it would respond to the shelling "in a proportionate manner."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Earlier, India launched missile strikes across the border into Pakistan, claiming to be targeting the hideouts of militant groups behind a late April attack in the disputed region of Kashmir in which at least 26 civilians were killed.

The Pakistani military said eight people were killed and 33 others injured in the strikes.

Wreckage of Indian Air force fighter jet after fell down in Wuyan Pampore south kashmir. India launched airstrikes on Pakistan. Basit Zargar/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
India says it has struck nine targets inside Pakistani-controlled Kashmir and Pakistan proper. Pakistani forces subsequently launched some degree of retaliatory attacks. Fears that all-out fighting between the two nuclear-armed nations could erupt have been building since a deadly attack on tourists in the Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir region in April. Readers can first get up to speed on how the situation had already been deteriorating here.

The latest updates to this story can be found at the bottom.

Indian authorities have blamed the Pakistanis for the terrorist attack near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, which left 26 dead and 20 wounded. Officials in Pakistan have denied those allegations. A terrorist group called The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), claimed responsibility. TRF and LeT are both opposed to Indian control of the long-disputed Kashmir region.

A map centered on Pahalgam offering a general overview of the disputed Kashmir region. Indian strikes today targeted Pakistani-controlled parts of Kashmir, as well as adjacent areas in Pakistan proper. Google Maps

India has launched #OperationSindoor striking multiple targets within Pakistan, hitting "terror linked infrastructure"  Pakistan is retaliating, has shut down its airspace  Intense crossfire is being reported at the Line of Control, targets sourced from Indian media below pic.twitter.com/WqEgkbzcPA  Damien Symon (@detresfa_) May 6, 2025

A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched OPERATION SINDOOR, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. Altogether, nine (9) sites have been targeted, according to a statement from Indias Ministry of Defense. Our actions have been focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution.

Indian MoD

These steps come in the wake of the barbaric Pahalgam terrorist attack in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were murdered. We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable, the statement added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What platforms and munitions were employed in Indias attacks are unclear. Pakistani authorities have described them as being launched from within Indias airspace.

The exact nature of what India struck is also not clear. Sites in Kotli, Ahmadpur East, Muzaffarabad, Bagh, and Muridke were reportedly targeted. Ahmadpur East and Muridke are both in undisputed Pakistani territory.

 India Hits Pakistan   



India claims it struck terror targets near the border and in Pakistani Kashmir.



Pakistan says the missiles hit civilian areas instead.



These are the locations that were hit. pic.twitter.com/3KWyTBXdwL  Clash Report (@clashreport) May 6, 2025

Pakistan updates its statement: says 5 sites have been hit in Pakistan. There are also several civilians injured. https://t.co/askEbBXw1o  FJ (@Natsecjeff) May 6, 2025

Markaz-e-Tayyeba in Muridke, Punjab province, was also struck by Indian missiles. pic.twitter.com/AfA0oNbcQ7  Clash Report (@clashreport) May 6, 2025

BREAKING: The first clear footage of India bombing Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/OGglvTsJ3f  Clash Report (@clashreport) May 6, 2025

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 BREAKING



India strikes multiple Pakistani sites in Jammu & Kashmir. pic.twitter.com/htR8jM1Y2p  Warfare Analysis (@warfareanalysis) May 6, 2025

There are reports that a madrassa, or Islamic school, in the Bahawalpur district of Pakistans Punjab region, where Ahmadpur East is situated, tied to Maulana Masood Azhar was among the targets. Azhar is the founder of another Pakistan-based terrorist organization, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Pakistani authorities have said that at least three people, including one child, were killed in the Indian attack on Bahawalpur, according to Reuters. Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency has alleged ties to both JeM and LeT.

India has launched nine missile strikes into Pakistan. One of the targets is a mosque in Bahawalpur linked to Maulana Masood Azhar, the founder and leader of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), an Islamist terrorist group primarily active in Indian Kashmir. pic.twitter.com/9NnMNg7zR1  Imtiaz Mahmood (@ImtiazMadmood) May 6, 2025

Pakistan security source says at least one child killed in attack and two injured near Bahawalpur- Reuters  Idrees Ali (@idreesali114) May 6, 2025

Pakistani authorities immediately vowed to respond to what they described as a shameful and cowardly Indian operation that targeted civilians. There were subsequent reports of Pakistani forces responding to Indias operation, but the extent of the retaliation so far is unclear. Indian authorities have confirmed Pakistani artillery fire into areas of Indian-controlled Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistani media outlets have reported strikes targeting Indian military outposts in the region, but that remains unconfirmed.

Pakistan again violates the Ceasefire Agreement by firing Artillery in Bhimber Gali in Poonch- Rajauri area.#IndianArmy is responding appropriately in a caliberated manner. pic.twitter.com/Bo7Cf8ISzn  ADG PI  INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) May 6, 2025

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistan army and air force retaliating with "befitting reply" to Indian attack on Pakistan, state media reports https://t.co/2P62OlVPqE  Factal News (@factal) May 6, 2025

A Pakistani official, speaking on national media, stated that retaliation is currently underway both on the ground and in the air. https://t.co/30h6pPrrCW  Levent Kemal (@leventkemaI) May 6, 2025

BREAKING:



Pakistani media now claiming that Pakistani forces have destroyed a brigade HQ of Indian forces.  FJ (@Natsecjeff) May 6, 2025

Note: All these three claims are from Pakistani media, not Pakistani military. So wait for official statements. https://t.co/jKVSI3UiXZ  FJ (@Natsecjeff) May 6, 2025

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistani authorities have also claimed to have shot down two Indian combat jets, but no hard evidence of this has yet emerged. Some imagery circulating online now claiming to show wreckage of the aircraft has been confirmed to be old and unrelated.

Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, the Director-General of Inter-Services Public Relations for the Pakistani Army, just told CNN that Pakistan has shot down a pair of Indian Air Force fighter jets near the border between India and Pakistan. So far there is no evidence of these  OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) May 6, 2025

his image is not recent nor does it show a IAF jet that was shot by Pakistan  Per reports from Septmeber 2nd, 2024, it showcases a MiG-29 fighter jet of the Indian Air Force (IAF) that had crashed in Barmer, Rajasthan, India. https://t.co/zF4n192hi2 pic.twitter.com/12DkYkJRao  Tal Hagin (@talhagin) May 6, 2025

A state of emergency has now been declared in Pakistans Punjab province. Pakistan has also closed its airspace to commercial and other civilian air traffic for at least a period of 48 hours following Indias operation. A number of airliners that were airborne when the strikes began had to divert.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Non-Pakistani aircraftboth to Pakistan airports and overflightsappear to be diverting, while Pakistani airlines are continuing to their destinations at this time. pic.twitter.com/8Hb2LcKYK4  Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) May 6, 2025

This is the most significant fighting between India and Pakistan since 2019, which was also touched off by a limited Indian operation targeting sites in Pakistan following a terrorist attack. That confrontation occurred during President Donald Trumps first term, and Mike Pompeo, who was Secretary of State at the time, has since said that there were serious concerns about that conflict escalating into a nuclear exchange.

Its a shame. We just heard about it, Trump said when asked about the situation today. I just hope it ends very quickly.

The cunning enemy has carried out cowardly attacks on five locations in Pakistan. Pakistan has every right to respond forcefully to this act of war imposed by India, and a forceful response is being given, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has now written in a post on X. The entire nation stands with the Pakistani armed forces, and the morale and spirit of the entire Pakistani nation are high. The Pakistani nation and the Pakistani armed forces know how to deal with the enemy. We will never allow the enemy to succeed in their nefarious goals.

A statement from Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif following tonights strikes by the Indian Air Force against Pakistani Territory: The cunning enemy has carried out cowardly attacks on five locations in Pakistan. Pakistan has every right to respond forcefully to this act pic.twitter.com/yaD7sV1rFj  OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) May 6, 2025

It is already Wednesday morning in South Asia, and Pakistani authorities are reportedly set to hold an urgent top-level national security meeting.

BREAKING:



 Pakistan summons urgent natsec meeting in the morning.



 Punjab province declares emergency.  FJ (@Natsecjeff) May 6, 2025

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While India has framed Operation Sindoor as limited and non-escalatory, it remains to be seen how the new fighting that has erupted between it and Pakistan will now evolve.

Update: 7:25 PM EST 

Indias Embassy in the United States has put out an additional statement regarding Operation Sindoor. It notes that Indias National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval, spoke directly with interim U.S. National Security Advisor and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio about the actions taken.

Indias actions have been focused and precise. They were measured, responsible, and designed to be non-escalatory in nature, the statement adds. No Pakistani civilian, economic, or military targets have been hit. Only known terror camps were targeted.

There are reports that Rubio is also in contact with his Pakistani counterpart.

U.S. National Security Advisor and Secretary of State Marco Rubio held talks with Pakistan's NSA and ISI Chief Lt. Gen. Asim Malik regarding India's strike on Pakistan.  Levent Kemal (@leventkemaI) May 6, 2025

Pakistans Foreign Minister has now also put out a formal statement referring to Indias operation as an unprovoked and blatant act of war and saying his country reserves the right to respond appropriately at a time and place of its choosing.

Claims about Indian losses of crewed combat jets and drones continue to grow, but so far remain unconfirmed.

NEW: Pakistan says 5 Indian planes shot down, soldiers taken prisoner.



Source: Bloomberg  Clash Report (@clashreport) May 6, 2025

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There remains no independent visual confirmation of Pakistan's escalating claims that it has downed five Indian jets. However, India has not issued an official denial either. pic.twitter.com/arZBCbjARg  Levent Kemal (@leventkemaI) May 6, 2025

Casualties as a result of Operation Sindoor have risen to eight dead and 35 injured, with at least two other individuals missing, according to Pakistani authorities.

Pakistan Army Spox:



8 Pakistanis killed, 35 injured, 2 missing



In 6 locations, 24 impacts have occurred using different weapons.  Clash Report (@clashreport) May 6, 2025

Unconfirmed footage claiming to show Pakistani artillery strikes on Indian positions is now emerging.

EXCLUSIVE  



Pakistan hitting & Destroying Indian Military Posts pic.twitter.com/8QvSNqY0fh  Eagle Eye (@zarrar_11PK) May 6, 2025

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

            pic.twitter.com/3HJRAq3ZR2  Eagle Eye (@zarrar_11PK) May 6, 2025

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calls for maximum military restraint from both countries, U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric has told the BBC. The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan.

Update: 10:18 PM EST 

Video has emerged that may point to the loss of at least one Indian combat jet. The footage, which is said to have been shot in Indians Punjab region, looks to show the remains of a French-made MICA missile. The Indian Air Force acquired radar and infrared-homing versions of the MICA in the mid-2010s, originally to arm Mirage 2000 fighters. Indias newer Rafales can also employ these missiles. In 2020, the Indian Air Force also reportedly conducted a test launch of a MICA from one of its Russian-made Su-30MKI Flankers, but there are no indications that this is now an operational combination. Pakistan does not have the MICA in its inventory.

Could also be a Mirage 2000, rumor that it was brought down over India, so likely an Air to Air kill. But who knows. Both sides lie about these things.  Steven (@McBaine146) May 7, 2025

Pakistani authorities have now claimed specifically have downed three Indian Rafales, as well as one Su-30MKI and one MiG-29, as well as various drones.

Asked by Reuters how Pakistan had responded, like the Prime Minister said, the spokesperson said: "I'm telling you, the Pakistani Air Force has taken down the attacking aircraft."  Idrees Ali (@idreesali114) May 7, 2025

Media outlets in India have also now reported that the Indian Air Force lost at least three combat jets in the course of Operation Sindoor. Reuters has also now reported that an Indian combat jet crashed for unspecified reasons somewhere in Jammu and Kashmir, and that its pilot was injured and taken to the hospital.

IndiaTV reports that at least three Indian fighter jets have crashed tonight inside of India, with all of the crash sites having been secured by the Indian Air Force.  OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) May 7, 2025

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Contact the author: joe@twz.com
The News

India and Pakistan edged closer to the brink of war, with Islamabad vowing to retaliate against deadly Indian strikes Wednesday, as the international community urged restraint.

Pakistan said 26 civilians died in military strikes inside Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir that India said were precision operations targeting known terror camps. Pakistan also claimed to have shot down five Indian aircraft.

The threat of conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbors underscores shifting global alliances: India used to buy arms mainly from Russia, but increasingly is doing so from the West, while Pakistan is shifting its supply from the US to China. The connections inject superpower politics into South Asias longest-running and most intractable conflict, The New York Times reported.
India strikes Pakistan: Last month, there was a terrorist attack in India-controlled Kashmir that killed 26 tourists. Yesterday, India conducted several airstrikes on Pakistan, saying the strikes were retribution for the attack.

The strikes may not have been as successful as the Indian military had hoped. "At least two aircraft were said to have gone down in India and the Indian-controlled side of Kashmir, according to three officials, local news reports, and accounts of witnesses who had seen the debris of two," reports The New York Times. "Pakistani military officials said that more than 20 people had been killed and dozens injured after six places were hit on the Pakistani side of Kashmir and in Punjab Province. Residents of the Indian side of Kashmir said at least 10 people had been killed in shelling from the Pakistani side since India carried out its strikes."

Pakistan called the strikes "an unprovoked and blatant act of war." India said the strikes were "measured, responsible and designed to be nonescalatory in nature" focused only on "known terror camps."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The scale of the strikes went far beyond New Delhi's response to previous attacks in Kashmir it has blamed on Pakistan, including in 2019 and 2016, which some analysts said meant the risk of escalation was higher," reports Reuters. But "the last time India and Pakistan faced off in a military confrontation, in 2019, U.S. officials detected enough movement in the nuclear arsenals of both nations to be alarmed," reports The New York Times.

There's also, of course, the China factor: Pakistan now gets lots of its weapons from China, whereas India is more reliant on the West; relations between India and China have soured in recent years, while China and Pakistan have gotten much closer.

Conclave begins: Pope Francis, who died on April 21, expanded the number of cardinals. The conclave that appointed him a little more than a decade ago was comprised of 115 cardinals from 48 countries, whereas this conclavewhich commences todaywill have 133 voting-age cardinals (those under 80), from roughly 70 countries. In total, including those over 80, there are now 252 cardinals from more parts of the world than ever before.

Possible contenders for the next pope include Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who is basically the second-in-command and well-liked in the Vatican bureaucracy (but has come under scrutiny for dealmaking with China), and Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle of the Philippines, who would be a Francis-like successor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There's also Cardinal Peter Erdo of Hungary, a more conservative and scholarly pick. There's Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, from the Democratic Republic of Congo, a pick that would represent the Catholic Church's growing presence in Africa (and possibly a more conservative shift). Or Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline, whose humble personal style is reminiscent of Francis and who has deep theological knowledge and a bridge-building background. Or Cardinal Fernando Filoni, a longtime diplomat for the Vatican, who was close with Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI, but not with Pope Francis.

Land acknowledgements were always bullshit: "The United States, like all nations, was created through territorial conquest. Most of its current territory was occupied or frequented by human beings before the U.S. came; the U.S. used force to either displace, subjugate, or kill all of those people. To the extent that land 'ownership' existed under the previous inhabitants, the land of the U.S. is stolen land," writes Noah Smith at his Substack. "This was also true before the U.S. arrived. The forcible theft of the land upon which the U.S. now exists was not the first such theft; the people who lived there before conquered, displaced, or killed someone else in order to take the land.The moral principle to which [land acknowledgements] appeal is ethnonationalismit's the idea that plots of land are the rightful property of ethnic groups."

Land acknowledgementswhich I see every time I go to an art museum anywhere within the five boroughswere always predicated on the myth of the Noble Savage, that the tribes the European settlers encountered were a largely peaceable people living in glorious harmony with their surroundings. But Smith extends the logic out even further.

"Once the logic of land acknowledgements and 'decolonization' is followed," Smith concludes, "it leads very quickly to some very dark futures. Assigning each person a homeland based on their ethnic ancestry, and then declaring that that homeland is the only place they or their descendants can ever truly belong, would not be an act of justice; it would be a global nightmare made real, surpassing even the horrors of previous centuries."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

(Read on for Smith's tale of Squamish YIMBYs trying to make bank.)

Scenes from New York: "Every place where I had seen something or someone that provoked unease was deemed permanently suspect," writes Lena Dunham of her much-hated hometown, New York City. "And, if you couldn't return to the scene of some randomized chaos in pre-Giuliani Manhattan, you couldn't do much at all. For so many people, New York seems to open a portal to the expansive lives they had always felt they should be living. For me, the city constricted until the only place I felt safe was in my loft bed at the back of our apartment, my head in a book, the faint sounds of the streets below my window like a white-noise machine that occasionally yelled, 'Out of my way, motherfucker!'All this may seem to imply some deeper judgment about the citythat I think it's wanton and unregulated, a 'Where's Waldo?' of Boschian perversion."

The whole essay is kind of a delightful read if you can get over the byline.

QUICK HITS

"Newark has lost 20% of its air traffic controllers in recent weeks all on its own, with United CEO Scott Kirby claiming they simply 'walked off the job,' which seems to have followed malfunctions in radar and radio (what)," writes G.B. Rango at Pirate Wires. "Now, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is begging for hires, offering $5k bonuses while speaking ominously of 'cracks in the system.' Which would be terrifying if I wasn't already doing everything humanly possible to avoid Newark Airport." ("Five FAA employeesa supervisor, three controllers and one traineetook 45 days of trauma leave after the [recent] outage, according to the air traffic controller," per CNN.)

The Trump administration plans to deport migrantsnationalities currently unclearto Libya in lieu of El Salvador. "The Libya operation falls in line with the Trump administration's effort to not only deter migrants from trying to enter the country illegally but also to send a strong message to those in the country illegally that they can be deported to countries where they could face brutal conditions," per The New York Times.

"Last week, the NJ district court in Mahmoud Khalil's case issued a 108-page decision that hasn't received adequate attention. The judge found that the Article III court has jurisdiction over Khalil's habeas petition," writes attorney Jenin Younes on X. "The judge found that Khalil is entitled to review of his petition in federal court. But arguably more crucially, the judge observed that Khalil raised a plausible claim he is being detained and deported in unlawful retaliation for exercising his First Amendment rights that warrant further examination, and has said additional orders will follow shortly." Full decision here.

The post India vs. Pakistan (and China) appeared first on Reason.com.
[Source]

A Washington State University (WSU) electrical engineering student was reportedly assaulted by a graduate student and a staff member while wearing a pro-Donald Trump hat near campus in February.

What happened

Jay Sani, a 25-year-old junior, was attacked outside The Coug, a popular bar near campus on Feb. 28. Patrick Mahoney, a 34-year-old graduate student, allegedly grabbed Sanis Trump 2024 TAKE AMERICA BACK hat and threw it into the road. When Sani responded by throwing his food bag toward Mahoney, both Mahoney and Gerald Hoff, a 24-year-old research assistant, allegedly took Sani to the ground and each delivered a punch.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Im an engineering student that wants to get the degree, and move on. So what if I like someone that you dont like, Sani wrote in a Facebook post. We have the First Amendment, and its not okay that just because you dont like that person, I should be attacked for it.

Trending on NextShark: Daniel Dae Kim is first Asian American to be nominated for Tony lead actor award

Arrest and charges

Body camera footage reportedly shows both men admitting to striking Sani, with Mahoney hitting him in the face and Hoff striking his legs. Both suspects were arrested, charged with misdemeanor fourth-degree assault and later released. According to police reports, Mahoney, who wore a shirt reading MARX WAS RIGHT, told officers, You wanna wear the hat, hey, theres gonna be a price to pay.

Fired from teaching

Trending on NextShark: Vietnamese refugee suffering from dementia dies in ICE custody in Texas

WSU has since relieved Mahoney of all teaching responsibilities, while Hoff has been terminated from his staff position. Phil Weiler, WSU vice president of marketing and communications, told KREM 2, Theres no place on our campus for people who may be disrespectful, may be unwilling to let people express their views.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sani said he is sharing the news because of how toxic the left has gotten. The 2018 Pullman High School graduate, who also serves as president of the WSU College Republicans and secretary of the WSU chapter of the conservative group Turning Point USA, has pre-trial hearings scheduled for May 22 for Hoff and May 29 for Mahoney.

The Rebel Yellow has reached out to Sani for updates.

Trending on NextShark: Korean American astronaut Jonny Kim shares gochujang burger recipe from space

This story is part of The Rebel Yellow Newsletter  a bold weekly newsletter from the creators of NextShark, reclaiming our stories and celebrating Asian American voices.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Subscribe free to join the movement. If you love what were building, consider becoming a paid member  your support helps us grow our team, investigate impactful stories, and uplift our community.

Trending on NextShark: Indian American student wearing pro-Trump hat attacked near WSU

Subscribe here now!

Download the NextShark App:

Want to keep up to date on Asian American News? Download the NextShark App today!
NEW DELHI (Reuters) -India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire on Saturday after a fourth day of strikes and counter-strikes against each other's military installations.

Here is a chronology of major military and diplomatic escalations in their troubled relationship since 1999.

MayJuly 1999:

India and Pakistan fight an undeclared war in the Kargil region of Kashmir after Pakistani army-backed irregulars occupy Indian posts on the Line of Control (LoC), or ceasefire line. India pushes back after intense fighting. The U.S. pressures Pakistan to withdraw.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

December 2001:

A heavily armed group attacks India's parliament building in New Delhi, killing nine people. India blames Pakistan-based Islamist groups Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. The two countries come to the brink of a fourth war.

November 2008:

Ten heavily armed attackers target major landmarks across Mumbai, including two luxury hotels, a Jewish centre and the main train station, killing 166 people. India pauses all dialogue with Pakistan, resuming briefly years later under a structured peace process.

January 2016:

Attackers disguised as soldiers storm an Indian Air Force base near the Pakistan border, exchanging fire with Indian forces who, backed by tanks and helicopters, battle for more than 15 hours before wresting back control of the compound.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

All five assailants and at least two guards are killed.

India says the attackers came from Pakistan, while Pakistani authorities condemn the raid. Peace talks, briefly revived in 2015, stall again.

September 2016:

Eighteen Indian soldiers are killed in an attack on an army base in Uri in Indian Kashmir. India blames Pakistan for the attack and responds with "surgical strikes" across the LoC on what it calls terrorist launchpads.

Pakistan denies any incursion on its territory.

February 2019:

A suicide bomber kills 40 Indian paramilitary police in Kashmir. India conducts air strikes in Balakot, Pakistan.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistan responds with air strikes of its own and shoots down an Indian aircraft. India also claims to have shot down a Pakistani plane but this is not confirmed. The standoff cools following international pressure.

August 2019:

India revokes Kashmir's special status, scrapping a constitutional provision that allowed the state of Jammu and Kashmir to make its own laws. Pakistan downgrades diplomatic ties and suspends trade.

April 2025:

Twenty-six men are killed when Islamist assailants target Hindu tourists in Indian Kashmir. India blames Pakistan-backed groups; Pakistan denies involvement and calls for a neutral investigation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

India suspends the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty that regulates water-sharing from the river and its tributaries, while Pakistan suspends all trade with India, including through third countries.

Both countries close airspace to each other's airlines and revoke most visas issued to each other's nationals.

May 2025:

India attacks sites in Pakistan and Pakistani Kashmir, targeting what it describes as "terrorist infrastructure".

Over four days, both countries engage in strikes and counter-strikes against each other's military installations.

On May 10, the two countries said they had agreed to a ceasefire, after pressure from and talks with the United States.

(Compiled by Surbhi Misra; Editing by YP Rajesh, Raju Gopalakrishnan and Kevin Liffey)
TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV)  The Greatest Spectacle in Racing returns for its 109th running this May. During May, the entire Hoosier state rallies together for the greatest 500 miles in motorsports.

In Vigo County, a special Indy 500-themed welcome center is rounding turn four as its nearing completion.

This is kind of a chance to get a look at the greatest spectacle in welcome centers, said Blake Dollier, Indiana Department of Transportation Public Relations Director for the West Central Office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Here on I-70 just past the Indiana and Illinois state line, you may not hear the sounds of a V-6 twin turbo engine whipping around a 2.5-mile track, but you can hear the sounds of crews making their final touches on the nearly $53 million Indy 500-themed Clear Creek Welcome Center.

This is something people are going to drive in Indiana into the crossroads of America and get to experience the many traditions our state has to offer, all quiet literally under one roof. This is something we have been working on for quite some time. Its been a long time, and we are really kind of approaching that finish line and checkered flag of completion on this welcome center, said Dollier.

Dollier said this isnt just a welcome center but rather a tourist attraction for people driving through the Hoosier state.

Its Indy 500 themed, telling the history of the state and the greatest spectacle in racing. Again, we like to think of this as the greatest spectacle in welcome centers because you have the Borg Warner trophy out front and different memorabilia from the Indy 500 How exciting, as well, is this for Vigo County and the surrounding area. Its like a mini tourist attraction where you get to experience the month of May and experience the Indy 500, said Dollier.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He also added that the new renovations to the center will also give more truck drivers spaces for a quick pit stop.

This is also part of the state of Indianas plan to increase truck parking. We have 178 truck parking spaces that are going to be available at the Clear Creek Welcome Center. And, with that being said, thats about an increase of almost 80 spaces, said Dollier.

INDOT said they expect the final laps on this project to be completed sometime this summer.

We are really proud of the work that has been done on this facility, and we are really excited to continue to be able to showcase that as things get opened up and as things get moving We just encourage everybody to get your hopes up and come out and see this if you get a chance once things are open. We really, really look forward to it, said Dollier.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Once the welcome center opens, it will not only feature a replica of the Indy 500 winning trophy, the Borg Warner, but it will also feature a scoring pylon and an IndyCar.

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 MyWabashValley.com.
Competing news briefings. Divergent claims. And conflicting narratives.

As Indian attacks on Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir early on May 7 pulled the nuclear-armed neighbours to the brink of a potential military conflict, a parallel war quickly broke out  over information.

Within hours of the Indian strikes, authorities on both sides continue to put out claims and counterclaims that have been amplified on social media as each country tries to control the narrative in its favour.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Five Indian jets were downed, Pakistan said, for instance. India has yet to respond to the claim but Indian officials who requested anonymity said three jets had crashed in India-administered Kashmir but did not confirm whether they were Indian or Pakistani planes.

Here is a look at what both India and Pakistan have claimed so far  and how they have a history of competing narratives that often allow them to each assert wins over the other to their respective domestic audiences while making independent verification of the facts harder.





What has been targeted?

India said its forces hit terrorist infrastructure at nine sites in response to last months deadly shooting attack on tourists by suspected rebels in Pahalgam in India-administered Kashmir. India blamed Pakistan for the Pahalgam attack, in which 26 male civilians were killed. Islamabad denied the charges and asked India to provide evidence to back up its claims.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Wednesday, Pakistan said Indian forces had hit six cities in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir and a health centre.

Pakistan said 31 civilians were killed, including a three-year-old girl.

But Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh claimed his forces did not harm civilians. In a news briefing, Indian Air Force Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said the strikes led to no collateral damage and had been conducted through precision capability.

Meanwhile, on Thursday, the Indian government claimed that Pakistani attacks on its territory had killed 16 people, including five children.

Soldiers inspect the debris of a mosque after Indian strikes in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir [Sajjad Qayyum/AFP]

Did Indian forces hoist a white flag?

On its official X account, the Pakistani government said Indian soldiers had raised a white flag, a common symbol of surrender, at a military post along the Line of Control (LoC), the de facto border that divides India-administered and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistans Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar echoed the claim on his X account, posting: First they fled from the investigation, now they fled from the field.

Indian authorities have yet to formally address the claim, but as India and Pakistan are not officially at war, it is unclear why New Delhi might feel the need to surrender.

Were warplanes downed? How many? And who did they belong to?

Pakistans military spokesperson, Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, said five Indian jets had been downed, all within Indian territory, with planes from neither side crossing into the others airspace.

According to Indian security sources who spoke to Al Jazeera, three fighter jets were downed inside India-controlled territory. However, it was not clear which country the warplanes belonged to.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While there has been no comment from the federal government, the Indian embassy in China dismissed claims of Indian jets being brought down, criticising a report in the Chinese state media outlet Global Times as disinformation.

(Al Jazeera)

Have there been drone incursions?

On Thursday, Pakistans military spokesperson claimed Pakistan had downed 25 Israeli-made Herop drones using technical equipment and weapons, adding that one civilian had died and four Pakistani soldiers had been wounded.

Meanwhile, the Indian Ministry of Defence said Pakistani forces attempted to engage a number of military targets in multiple areas in northern and western India using drones and missiles.

The ministry added that Indian forces struck air defence radars and systems at multiple locations in Pakistan.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Neither India nor Pakistan has so far responded to the claims made by the other side.

History of conflicting claims

Previous escalations between India and Pakistan have also generated conflicting claims and accusations, often leaving observers to ponder which account, if either, reflects the truth.

In February 2019, Indian forces said they had hit a large number of JeM [Jaish-e-Muhammad] terrorists, trainers, senior commanders and groups of jihadis in Balakot in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, weeks after a suicide attack killed 40 members of the security forces in India-administered Kashmirs Pulwama.

Formed in 2000, JeM has carried out numerous attacks on Indian forces in India-administered Kashmir. Both India and Pakistan have designated the armed group as a terrorist organisation, but its leader Masood Azhar has been allowed to operate in Pakistan. His current whereabouts are unknown.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistan, which denied having a role in the Pulwama attack, said the Indian air attacks in 2019 hit an uninhabited forest.

Similarly, in 2016, Pakistan rejected Indias claims of surgical strikes against terrorist units on its territory after an attack on an Indian army base killed 18 soldiers in Uri in India-administered Kashmir.

The Pakistani military called the claims an illusion and said India had engaged in nothing more than cross-border fire  which is an existential phenomenon.

Madiha Afzal, a scholar at the Brookings Institution in Washington, DC, said controlling the narrative has been a fundamental element on both sides in the 77-year-old conflict between India and Pakistan.

That has become more difficult in an age of easily accessible information as well as social media, Afzal said. Nevertheless, she added: If local media largely follows the states preferred narratives in both India and Pakistan, which it does, the state can easily control public perception to its advantage and rally public support in its favour.
KAGOSHIMA, Japan - Three Chinese men were arrested Wednesday for alleged possession of several thousand protected hermit crabs in the southwestern Japan city of Amami, police said.

Liao Zhibin, 24, Song Zhenhao, 26, and Guo Jiawei, 27, are suspected of possessing around 160 kilograms of hermit crabs designated as "national natural monuments" on Tuesday without authorization from the head of the Cultural Affairs Agency, the police said.

Authorities believe the three may have intended to sell the crabs, which were packed in six suitcases.

A staff member from a hotel where the men stayed alerted the police through an Environment Ministry official.

The police have not said whether the three have admitted to the allegations.
An inmate who disappeared from a work release in South Carolina last week was caught in Charlotte, according to the South Carolina Department of Corrections.

Our affiliates at WPDE reported that Ulysses Steven Conner Jr., 32, was found at a hotel near Charlotte-Douglas International Airport on Tuesday.

Conner, who is serving a 10-year prison sentence for burglary, was reported missing after walking off from his job at Bojangles, WPDE said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Authorities said Conners brother was arrested and charged with aiding an inmates escape from prison. Roland Leon Miley, allegedly helped Conner get out of the Florence area after leaving his job.

South Carolina law says certain eligible offenders can be released from prison for work during the day, and then they return after their work shift.

Conner was arrested on an extradition hold, according to Mecklenburg County jail records.

(VIDEO: South Carolina death row inmate to face firing squad)
OKLAHOMA CITY (AP)  An Oklahoma board denied clemency on Wednesday for a man convicted of killing a Tulsa woman in 1999, clearing the way for his execution next month after the Trump administration expedited his transfer from a federal prison.

Oklahoma's five-member Pardon and Parole Board voted 3-2 to reject clemency for 61-year-old John Fitzgerald Hanson. Hanson, whose name in some federal court records is George John Hanson, is scheduled to receive a lethal injection on June 12. Without a recommendation from the board, Gov. Kevin Stitt is unable to commute Hanson's sentence to life in prison without parole.

Hanson was sentenced to death in Tulsa County, Oklahoma, after he was convicted of carjacking, kidnapping and killing Mary Bowles after he and an accomplice, Victor Miller, kidnapped the woman from a Tulsa shopping mall. Prosecutors allege the pair drove Bowles to a gravel pit near Owasso, where Miller shot and killed the property owner, Jerald Thurman. The two then drove Bowles a short distance away, where Hanson shot and killed Bowles, according to prosecutors.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Miller received a no-parole life prison sentence for his role in the crimes.

Hanson, who appeared before the board via a video link to the Oklahoma State Penitentiary in McAlester, expressed remorse for his involvement in the crimes and apologized to the families of the victims.

Im not an evil person, Hanson said. I was caught in a situation I couldnt control. I cant change the past, but I would if I could.

Hanson's attorneys acknowledged Hanson participated in the kidnapping and carjacking, but said there was no definitive evidence that he shot and killed Bowles. They painted Hanson as a troubled youth who suffered from autism spectrum disorder and who was controlled and manipulated by the domineering Miller.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They also presented testimony from prison employees at the U.S. Penitentiary in Pollock, Louisiana, that Hanson was a well-respected inmate with a good work ethic and a history of helping staff and other prisoners.

Emma Rolls, the first assistant for the Federal Public Defender's office, described Hanson as a remorseful man who wants to do his time and stay away from mischief.

But prosecutors and family members of the victims cast doubt on the sincerity of Hanson's remorse. Sara Mooney, Mary Bowles' niece, told the board Hanson never attempted to contact her in the last 26 years to apologize or offer an explanation for his role in the crimes.

If anything, he regrets being caught, said Assistant Attorney General Michel Trapasso.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hanson was transferred to Oklahoma custody in March by federal officials following through on President Donald Trumps sweeping executive order to more actively support the death penalty.

Both Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond and his predecessor, John O'Connor, had sought Hanson's transfer during President Joe Biden's administration, but the U.S. Bureau of Prisons denied it, saying the transfer was not in the public interest.

The Biden administration protected this monster from justice for too long, Drummond told the board.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTW)  A SC Department of Corrections inmate who walked off his job at a Florence Bojangles on Thursday night was captured Tuesday in Charlotte, authorities said.

Ulysses Steven Conner Jr. was working the night shift at the Bojangles on Celebration Boulevard when he walked off. The SCDC said he was arrested at a hotel near CharlotteDouglas International Airport. No one was injured.

An arrest warrant shows Conner conspired with another inmate to aid his escape. He will be extradited to South Carolina and returned to SCDC, where he will face escape charges.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Authorities on Monday arrested Conners brother, Roland Leon Miley, and charged him with aiding an inmates escape from prison, the SCDC said. Miley, 37, of Orangeburg, South Carolina, allegedly helped Conner make arrangements to escape.

Several agencies helped in Conners apprehension.

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.
BATON ROUGE, La. (KLFY)  Two bills being considered during the current session of the Louisiana Legislature unfairly target those who have been wrongly convicted, according to a New Orleans advocacy group.

The Innocence Project New Orleans is raising awareness about two House bills they say are harmful and target those exonerated after being wrongly convicted.

Jee Park, the Executive Director of the Innocence Project New Orleans, said people should be aware of House Bills 673 and 675.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

House Bill 673 repeals the wrongful conviction compensation, Park said.

Since 2005, Louisiana has had a law in place to compensate exonerees after being freed. Park said a wrongful conviction compensation is a $40,000 payment capped at ten years.

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

KLFY Daily Digest

House Bill 673, introduced by State Rep. Nicholas Muscarello, Jr. (R-Hammond) would repeal that law. Park said Louisiana has one of the lowest compensation amounts in the country.

Mississippi, Alabama, and Texas have, their amount of compensation payment is much higher than ours, Park said. In fact, in Mississippi and Alabama, the amount of compensation they receive is $50,000, and there is no cap.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She said while the existing payment is low, it gives people released from prison, who can find it difficult to find jobs despite being innocent, something little to help them get back on their feet.

That money helps exonerees pay rent, put food on their table, pay for insurance, and pay for health care, Park said.

Compensating people who are wrongfully convicted is a hard sell in some states

Park said House Bill 675, introduced by State Rep. Brian Glorioso (R-Hammond) would prevent an innocent person from getting into court to fight for their freedom post-conviction.

What it does is that it says that if you are not in court two years after the end of your direct appeal, your case is considered abandoned, Park said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Park said sometimes it may take longer than two years for new evidence to be found. Evidence would have to be new to be presented in court.

Sometimes it takes a much longer right to find that new piece of evidence to get back into court to fight for your freedom, Park said.

The current legislative session is scheduled to last until June 12.

Latest news

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 KLFY.com.
MIAMI  Florida Democrats, still reeling from a brutal electoral defeat in 2024, should be regrouping for next years midterms. Instead, the party is imploding  consumed by infighting, power plays and a deepening sense of irrelevance in a state dominated by the GOP.

The latest rupture came in a single day in late April: David Jolly, an anti-Trump former Republican representative, announced that he registered as a Democrat and launched a state political committee to support a possible run for governor. Hours later, state Senate Democratic leader Jason Pizzo  also eyeing the 2026 race  declared the Florida Democratic Party dead and said he was becoming an unaffiliated voter.

The back-to-back announcements crystalized the crisis inside the Florida Democratic Party. Its a party that celebrates 15-point special election losses as progress, struggles to fundraise and cant agree on how  or even if  it should mount a real comeback in a state once considered a top national battleground.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Interviews with 20 elected officials, strategists and activists reveal months of growing resentment, confusion and declining morale within the party, leading up to recent events. The Democratic players, some of whom were granted anonymity because they feared getting ostracized for speaking out, said they were a party in ruin.

What Democratic Party? said one Democrat whod just delivered a resounding speech celebrating their unity. Anothers blunt assessment: The state party is such a goddamn shitshow.

Pizzos big announcement shocked and angered many Florida Democrats, though it came after hed gotten into several public disputes with members of his own party. And plenty now say theyre worried hell run for governor as an independent, spoiling the race for the eventual Democratic nominee and easing the GOP path to the governors mansion.

I hope he is smart enough  I think he is  to realize its impossible for him or anybody else to win as an independent, said Broward County Commissioner and longtime Democratic legislator Steve Geller, whod leaned toward supporting Pizzo for governor when he was still a Democrat but spoke positively about Jolly at a town hall in Plantation last week.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Clashes between Pizzo and state party Chair Nikki Fried, who unsuccessfully ran for the Democratic nomination for governor in 2022, have become a dominant theme. And theyve continued even after Pizzos announcement. In an interview, he accused Fried of being consumed with term-limited Gov. Ron DeSantis when crafting the partys messaging  like they dated in high school and shes still angry, he said.

Its a sign of larger problems we all know about, said one Democratic political organizer of Pizzos exit. This party right now is in shambles and has been in shambles for I don't know how many years. At this point, we have been doing the same thing for 30 years and there's just nothing happening.

Cant even keep the lights on

Florida Democrats are still in mourning. Donald Trump won the state for a third time in 2024. DeSantis defeated ballot measures on abortion rights and legalized marijuana. And Republicans not only kept their supermajorities in the Legislature, but by January they got two Democratic state House members to switch parties.

Yet by many outward appearances, Florida Republicans were the ones having their civil war. For the first time in six years, DeSantis faced backlash from the GOP Legislature. Democrats began salivating over the prospect that Trump-endorsed Rep. Byron Donalds might face off against Florida first lady Casey DeSantis in a Republican primary for governor, marking another hostile proxy war between the president and the governor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Interviews with top Democrats and party operatives revealed that much optimism in recent months was steeped in the hope Trump might self-implode. They predicted Trumps tariffs would lead to empty shelves at Walmart, that people would soon pay exorbitant prices for basic needs, and seniors would watch their retirement funds dry up.

Their hope certainly wasnt rooted in Florida Democrats own performance metrics. The party has failed to grow its voter rolls, raising a mere $300,000 between January and March compared to the Republican Party of Floridas $4.6 million. (You cant even keep the lights on with something like that, complained the Democratic organizer.)

One of the biggest frustrations voiced by members: How unproductive the state party had been at registering voters while Republicans reaped a 1.2 million-person advantage. One Democrat said the state party should have sued when the GOP-controlled Legislature narrowed third-party groups ability to help with voter registration.

Several said they were livid that the nearly $25 million poured into a pair of April congressional special elections was not used to invest in state-party building. (Democrats lost those races, for Matt Gaetz and Mike Waltzs old seats in reliably safe GOP districts, by 15 points  an overperformance, but a loss nonetheless.)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Others didnt like that the state party opted to find a Democrat to run in every legislative race last cycle instead of focusing on seats that were winnable, or that Fried implausibly insisted Florida was in play for the presidency.

Even now, some members worry that their economic message isnt well coordinated. They fear Democrats have failed to get voters to understand that Republicans have governed Florida for decades and bear responsibility for how unaffordable it has become.

Miami filmmaker Billy Corben, who left the party last year after working on his countys executive committee, said he learned the Democratic Party of Florida was far worse than I expected and far more dysfunctional and grim than what I had reported from the outside looking in.

He called it an organization run entirely by ego and grift and not with the interests of the good-hearted and hardworking party faithful who are the donors and the volunteers, who are the backbone of the party. (Corben had previously called for Fried and state Sen. Shevrin Jones, the Miami-Dade Democratic Executive Committee chair, to resign, making many similar claims. In response, Jones called for party infighting to end.)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Corben added: Is it worse than RPOF? Certainly not. But they win.

National battle turned local  and bitter

Florida Democrats are having the same disagreements happening nationally between progressives and centrists, with Pizzo, a former homicide prosecutor of Sunny Isles Beach, solidly occupying the middle lane. Many concede Republicans have been able to gain the upper hand with Hispanics by labeling Democrats as socialists  a terrifying word to voters in South Floridas diaspora community and their families, many of whom fled left-wing authoritarianism in their home countries.

Steve Schale, a veteran Democratic strategist who helped former President Barack Obama win Florida twice, described the state electorate as center-right and moderate on social issues, with voters who tend to want lower taxes and reasonable immigration policy.

This all comes down to a basic math question, he said. If you are not where the voter is, you have to do one of two things: Change the makeup of the electorate and register people, or you have to get to ideologically where the voters are.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Top Democratic lawmakers were panicking and discussing the last election and 2026 in October, Pizzo said. They got on an emergency Zoom call to talk about how dire the forthcoming election was looking and what they could do.

At one point in the meeting, Pizzo let the group know he was prepared to launch a run for governor and self-fund a good chunk of it using his vast personal wealth. I have plans for 26 and I have $25 million ready to go, Pizzo recalled saying in the meeting. By his estimation, Democrats would need as much as $170 million to run competitively in Florida. He figured the person at the top of the ticket and others running statewide would help trickle down fundraising cash to other races and to the state party.

Pizzo now thinks the real reason some Democrats are mad about his exit is because other donors are likely to see that giving money to Florida Democrats is a bad investment.

As for Fried, she brushed off Pizzos departure. He wasn't a participant in the rebuilding of this party, she said. Asked specifically about the self-funding comments, she replied: "Anyone can make empty promises. Good leaders follow through, even if there's nothing in it for them."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Her statement after Pizzos public exit, which she referred to as a temper tantrum, was more blunt. Fried called Pizzo ineffective, unpopular, and praised his departure as one of the best things to happen to the party in years because it would make them more united.

Reading off his phone, Pizzo shared that he texted Fried his disagreements about the partys public statements. One referred to DeSantis as a mob boss, which he told her was offensive to Italian Americans. Pizzo also noted that she wrongly attributed the office of state attorney general, which is part of the executive branch, as being part of the judicial branch.

In another instance, he took issue with the Florida Democratic Party for calling a bill on illegal immigration extreme because he said it unseriously dealt with the issue given that it didnt have major employment restrictions.

Asked about the specific allegations, Fried said she was not going to get into a tit for tat with someone who no longer represents our partys values, calling it a ridiculous game to justify his bad political decisions. She accused Pizzo of pointing fingers to distract from the partys anger at him for abandoning us.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is a historic moment, she said. We are focused on rebuilding the party and working to elect Democrats who are willing to stay in the fight, come up with solutions to Floridas out-of-control affordability crisis, defend our veterans and protect programs like Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid.

But several Democrats said they were sad the party had lost Pizzo, including Lauren Book, the former state Senate Democratic leader.

It's unfortunate that it happened in the way that it did, Book said. Because I think that we have to look at: Why are we losing the members that we're losing? And look inward. Other Pizzo defenders note he cut checks to the state party and to candidates for years, and that members were not only happy to elect him leader but take his money.

Those who defend the state partys strategy say its about honoring its principles. Sarah Henry, who recently finished her term as vice chair for the Seminole County Democratic Party and narrowly lost a 2024 bid for state House, insisted the party was united and pissed off and said the reason for Democrats to run in tough seats was to give voters a choice, and to put their opponents on the spot to say whether they agreed with Trump or DeSantis.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its not like we are all running because its the most fun thing we have ever done, she said. Its because we believe deeply in equity, justice and protecting our democracy.

What comes next?

In the days leading up to his exit, Pizzo angered members of the Legislatures Black caucus with comments he made on the floor and clashed with Democratic state Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith of Orlando over a bill about guns on campus during a committee meeting. Pizzo said he has since had discussions with Black caucus members and agreed he had been an asshole to Guillermo-Smith and apologized to him.

Many were upset that Pizzo didnt give them a heads up about the party switch  or how he did it.

If you wanted to switch parties, switch parties, but there's no reason to come out and demean the people that really were there for you, said Scott Evans, state committee person for the Pembroke Pines Democratic Club.

You're the leader. So why didn't you get them to follow you? Why didn't you come up with solutions? Why didn't you lead instead of just give up? You don't do that as a leader, chimed in Lourdes Diaz, president for the group. That's what hurts me the most, that he's not taking responsibility that people don't want to follow him.

Asked to respond, Pizzo noted that every state Senate Democrat had kept their seat in 2024 and said Democrats had supported legislation that passed this past session while avoiding socially divisive issues.

He admits hes still considering a run for governor but is focusing on his family and resting for now. He rejects the idea that hed be a spoiler, pointing to split ticket voting in his district, where Trump won by around 3 points and he won reelection by 16 points. He predicted no Democrat would catch fire by later this year but indicated that if he were to be wrong then hed reconsider his options.

Isa Dominguez contributed to this report.
Residents of a Sand Key condominium tower were evacuated Tuesday evening due to potential structural issues in the building, officials said.

But months before, engineers who inspected the building said they had not observed any conditions that would compromise the safety of the building.

Thats according to a report performed by Karins Engineering that was sent to condominium owners in September. The Tampa Bay Times obtained a copy of the report from the City of Clearwater.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A summary of the report stated the foundation and overall structure were in good condition.

Karins was hired by the condo association to inspect the South Beach III condo at 1460 Gulf Blvd., in accordance with new laws passed after the deadly 2022 Champlain Towers building collapse in South Florida.

All buildings 30 years and older and three stories and higher were required to submit a safety inspection and come up with a plan for building maintenance. South Beach III was built in 1979 and is 13 stories.

The condo association should have submitted that report to the City of Clearwater by Dec. 31. But Clearwaters public communications director, Joelle Castelli said the city did not receive the required documentation ahead of the deadline.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Documents provided by city officials show there are several active permits at the building, including one for removal and replacement of partial garage floor parking slab.

While this permitted work was being done in the garage yesterday, a worker noticed that one of the concrete support columns appeared to have large cracks and voids within it which caused concern for the structural integrity of the building, Castelli said in a statement.

The management company in coordination with their engineer and city public safety officials, ordered an evacuation of the building, out of an abundance of caution, she stated.

A general contractor currently onsite working on the building, Castelli said. The city issued them a permit today for temporary shoring.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Additional work is needed to complete more substantial repairs, Castelli said. The city will rely on the propertys professional structural engineers to guide the response and repair. The citys Building Official will not approve occupying the building until a structural engineer has given us a report that the structure is stable and OK to occupy.

According to the September inspection report, Karins previously assessed the building in 2021 and an extensive restoration project was completed in May last year.

The report said that no urgent repairs were required at the building.

Engineers noted that a portion of under building garage slab was deteriorated beyond the point of being patched in the report. They wrote that work on the slab was planned to be completed by November last year.

Karins did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
A first daughter is about to have her first son. Tiffany Trump, only child of President Donald Trump and his second ex-wife, former model Marla Maples, is going to be a mom any day now, according to her social media feeds.

The expectant mom, a former model married to billionaire businessman Michael Boulos, has been busy preparing for the arrival of their son  and documenting her baby bump for her followers. The most recent was on May 1 and May 2, 2025, when Tiffany Trump posted on X and Instagram portraits of her and Boulos, with a peek at her bare baby bump.

Below is a roundup of Tiffany Trumps journey to motherhood and pregnancy photos.

Who is Tiffany Trump? Who is Michael Boulos?

Tiffany Trump, 31, married Michael Boulos, 27, in 2022 and has, unlike her older siblings, largely stayed out of the political arena during her father's nearly 10 years in the spotlight.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Like her father, Tiffany Trump attended the University of Pennsylvania and graduated in 2016 with a bachelor's degree in sociology. Four years later, Tiffany Trump graduated from Georgetown Law School as part of the class of 2020. Like many class of 2020 seniors (for high school and college), Tiffany Trump's college graduation was a virtual commencement ceremony because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

News reports show Tiffany Trump and her billionaire husband Michael Boulos have lived in Miami since Tiffany graduated from Georgetown University in 2020.

Tiffany Trump pregnancy photos, Trump 'baby bump' pics on Instagram and Twitter

2024 and 2025 was a big year for Donald Trumps youngest daughter. Tiffany Trump has been open with her followers about her pregnancy throughout his campaign, his landslide win in the Nov. 5, 2024, presidential election, his second inauguration and life as the 47th president of the United States.

Key moments in her fathers life happened while Tiffany Trump was pregnant with her first child with husband Michael Boulos. The photos below show Tiffany Trumps pregnancy, the baby shower hosted by her sister Ivanka Trump, and Tiffanys baby bump.

Dad, we are so proud of you!  pic.twitter.com/GyNqBviT4i  Tiffany Ariana Trump (@TiffanyATrump) November 6, 2024

New York Stock Exchange   pic.twitter.com/kAco8DsgBP  Tiffany Ariana Trump (@TiffanyATrump) December 12, 2024

5 months  pic.twitter.com/Fl3XMAkg73  Tiffany Ariana Trump (@TiffanyATrump) December 26, 2024

Wishing everyone a fantastic New Year! #NewYear2025  pic.twitter.com/3VDHtoc4wF  Tiffany Ariana Trump (@TiffanyATrump) January 1, 2025

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The candlelight dinner  Today is the day! pic.twitter.com/DO2G6ET8Bq  Tiffany Ariana Trump (@TiffanyATrump) January 20, 2025

January 20th, 2025 the evening of my dads @realDonaldTrump inauguration as the 47th President & marking 6 months pregnant with my first child  pic.twitter.com/MgnTlg19dZ  Tiffany Ariana Trump (@TiffanyATrump) January 22, 2025

As we witness the inauguration of my father @realDonaldTrump as the 47th President, lets embrace the power of unity, innovation, and hope for a brighter tomorrow.  Together, we are stronger, ready to face the challenges ahead and build a future that reflects the best of who we pic.twitter.com/83T709C8e1  Tiffany Ariana Trump (@TiffanyATrump) January 23, 2025

The Presidential Inaugural Ball  pic.twitter.com/1UO1PnWoxo  Tiffany Ariana Trump (@TiffanyATrump) January 24, 2025

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This Sunday, I had so much fun hosting a Peter Rabbit-themed baby shower for my sweet sister Tiffany! We showered her with love and had the best time celebrating her and baby-to-be!



Every detail was inspired by Beatrix Potters world  from bunny tails to garden treats  to pic.twitter.com/PTI3OHXyEk  Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) April 8, 2025

We are so excited to meet our baby boy soon!  pic.twitter.com/h6j1IqkTls  Tiffany Ariana Trump (@TiffanyATrump) April 9, 2025

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Counting down the days until we meet our little man  pic.twitter.com/BEGgZr1kC8  Tiffany Ariana Trump (@TiffanyATrump) May 1, 2025

Sangalang is a lead digital producer for USA TODAY Network. Follow her on Twitter or Instagram at @byjensangalang. Support local journalism. Consider subscribing to a Florida newspaper.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Tiffany Trump, Michael Boulos expecting a baby boy: pregnancy photos
The battle to replace Senate Minority Whip Dick Durbin in Illinois is intensifying with Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi on Wednesday jumping into a crowded primary that has divided key Democratic factions in the blue state.

Krishnamoorthi, who has represented a swath of the northwest Chicago suburbs since 2017, told CNN in an interview that he is the one who is standing up to Donald Trump and standing up to bullies.

It will be the first competitive Democratic Senate primary in Illinois since Tammy Duckworth was elected in 2016, defeating her primary opponents by double digits. But this one could grow more contentious, and its unclear who may ultimately emerge as the Democratic candidate for the general election.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Krishnamoorthi joins a growing field of primary candidates, which already includes his House colleague Rep. Robin Kelly and Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, a close ally of the governor. Rep. Lauren Underwood, who flipped a competitive seat in 2018, is also weighing a bid.

The race to become the Democratic nominee is likely to be one of the most expensive primaries in the country in the upcoming midterms. It comes as Democrats struggle to find a message to coalesce around as they try to regain power in Congress in 2026. And while Democrats are heavily favored to keep the seat, the outcome of the primary could give an indication of the direction that Democratic voters want their party to follow.

We have work to do, and we have to work on it right now, Krishnamoorthi said when asked if he thinks his party has made a strong economic case to voters in the past.

Democrats should never be the party that defends the status quo, he added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Krishnamoorthi, who voted against a GOP-led funding bill earlier this year that divided Democrats, wouldnt commit to supporting Chuck Schumer staying on as leader of the Senate Democratic caucus, after the New York Democrat faced criticism from many in the party for declining to block the legislation in order to avert a government shutdown.

If Im privileged to be in a position to vote, I would like to hear him talk about what his priorities are going to be, he said, adding, I hope that his priorities are going to be what Im talking about, which is, how do we make sure that we allow every American to realize their full economic potential.

Krishnamoorthi enters the race with $19 million in cash on hand after raising close to $3 million in the first quarter of the year, dwarfing Kellys own war chest of $2 million.

Meanwhile, Stratton has already picked up the endorsement of JB Pritzker, the states billionaire governor who brings to the table not only a deep pocketbook and network of donors, but also political capital as he weighs a potential presidential bid.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The word on the street is hes promised her some money that could make her competitive, Durbin told CNN of Pritzker and Stratton.

The 80-year-old senator had long been expected to step aside, having served in the chamber since 1997 and as the Senate Democratic whip since 2005.

Im not planning on endorsing anybody, but Im not ruling it out, Durbin said on Tuesday, adding that there is at least one other statewide elected official, if not more also weighing a bid.

Though Krishnamoorthi said he would be honored to have Durbins backing and is a fan of the governor, he argued its up to the candidates to win over voters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I like JB Pritzker. I think ultimately the people of Illinois should get to decide who their next senator is, and I look forward to earning their support, he said.

Stratton has made the case that Illinois needs new voices in Washington who know how to get things done and are not afraid to fight back.

As for the fight against Trump, Krishnamoorthi thinks hes the one for the job, pointing to his two impeachment votes against the president during his first term and role on the House Intelligence committee as it investigated Trumps connections to foreign entities.

Its important that we have somebody whos ready to take [Trump] on, as I have with him and others whove gone after our working families, Krishnamoorthi said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pressed on whether hes saying the lieutenant governor is not ready to take on Trump, Krishnamoorthi responded, No, Im saying that Im best prepared to do this job.

Kelly, a long-time advocate for gun safety and maternal healthcare issues, entered the race this week, also touting her record in Congress and warning that Trumps legislative agenda could slash key benefits programs.

This moment requires proven leaders who have the experience to take on the toughest battles. Ive never backed down  not from gun lobbyists, not from MAGA extremists, and certainly not from a fight for whats right, Kelly said in a statement on Tuesday.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The illegal hunting of gorillas and the illicit trade of their body parts are drawing higher prices in Nigeria, according to a recent Mongabay investigation, which focused on the Cross River gorilla.

What's happening?

Locals have spoken of a massive increase in the prices of these body parts in recent years.

In a 2019 Mongabay video, a trafficker said that in the 1980s, they would purchase parts for around $3 to $5. In the video, he said traders were buying a head, feet, and hands from hunters for around $49, then selling them to end users for $98, with the potential for prices to go higher.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Identifying the use of the body parts in traditional medicine and spiritual practices as a prime driver of the illicit market for the animals, thought to be full of powerful properties, Mongabay issued a new report this past February, saying that prices had risen even more. The traders with whom the outlet spoke for its most recent investigation shared that "a gorilla head goes from 300,000 to 1 million naira ($200 to $670), a drastic rise from five years ago."

Traditional healing and spirituality have contributed to the illegal hunting of gorillas, but that's not the only danger the animals face. For example, the International Union for Conservation of Nature has described habitat loss and the resulting lack of access to natural resources, loss of genetic diversity due to small populations, disease, and becoming caught in traps meant to capture other animals as additional threats to the Cross River gorilla.

Meanwhile, the shrinking of ape populations has caused prices to surge. Fewer products on the market create a mismatch between supply and demand, causing inflated scarcity pricing. Fewer gorillas in the wild also mean longer, more costly trips for hunters, adding to the price tag.

But not all hunters are enthusiastic about their roles in killing the animals. In fact, for many families, the killing of gorillas is a significant cultural taboo.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I had to kill it [the gorilla] because of money. It is a terrible thing to do," former hunter Benjamin Dauda told Mongabay.

Why is this concerning?

In a follow-up this April, Mongabay noted the IUCN estimate that around three Cross River gorillas are killed every year, "a devastating rate for a species with fewer than 300 individuals left in the wild."

Its cousin, the western lowland gorilla, saw its numbers demolished by repeated Ebola outbreaks. Both subspecies are critically endangered. As their populations continue to decline, inbreeding may weaken their bodies and communities.

What's being done?

Law enforcement has not been effective enough in stopping the hunting and trading of gorillas, while in some communities, the cultural stigma seems to act as a deterrent.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"When a hunter kills a gorilla, our people are not happy about it," Dauda said. "They would see you as an abomination."

Mongabay's reporting didn't fully address potential stigmas around consulting with spiritualists who use gorilla body parts, and it's not clear that mores would be enough to protect the animals anyhow. The taboos that are in the cultural "air supply" have existed for some time, and poaching still persists, largely because profits act as an incentive for hunters.

Higher prices could only inflame the situation. But investment in community-oriented, pro-environment employment opportunities might help encourage job seekers to leave hunting behind to support vulnerable wildlife and local ecosystems.

In 2024, the Cross River Gorilla Initiative announced the rare sighting of two mature males using trail cameras in an effort the Wilder Institute described as "[aiming] to bridge the gap between conservation efforts and community engagement" and "[equipping] Nigerian graduate students with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead future conservation efforts."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Meanwhile, younger practitioners of traditional medicine are often steering toward "more readily available" alternatives to gorilla body parts, according to Mongabay's February report, using body parts from different animals instead.

"Traditional medicine is changing," Uzondu Agwu told Mongabay. "Native doctors are beginning to develop cheaper medicines that don't depend on expensive animal parts like apes."

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.
TOKYO - Mitsubishi Motors Corp. said Wednesday that it has signed a memorandum with a unit of Taiwan electronics giant Foxconn to be supplied with the arm's electric vehicles, aiming to roll them out in Australia and New Zealand in the second half of next year.

The Japanese carmaker said in a statement that it will proceed with further discussions with Foxtron Vehicle Technologies Co., an EV developing arm of Foxconn, formally known as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co.

Taiwanese automaker Yulon Motor Co. will undertake manufacturing of the EVs in Taiwan.

Mitsubishi Motors' agreement with a contract manufacturer carries symbolic weight for the Japanese auto industry, which has historically been reluctant to outsource manufacturing to firms outside the traditional automotive sector, analysts said.

Separately, Mitsubishi Motors said it will launch new EVs to be supplied by Nissan Motor Co. based on its next-generation Leaf, with an eye on introducing them in the North American market in the latter half of 2026.

Mitsubishi Motors said it will supply one of its plug-in hybrid models to Nissan for sale in the North American market in 2026, adding it will continue to explore ways to strengthen their partnership to enhance its lineup of electrified vehicles.

The moves came after an initiative to form the world's third-biggest auto group between Honda Motor Co., Nissan and Mitsubishi fell through in February. Foxconn has expressed eagerness to partner with Japanese automakers to expand its fledgling EV business.

Despite the collapse of the talks, the three Japanese automakers are continuing discussions on collaborating in the development of EV software and other key areas, with industry experts closely monitoring whether Foxconn's collaboration with Mitsubishi expands to Honda and Nissan.

Mitsubishi decided not to participate in the Honda-Nissan merger talks, concerned about losing its autonomy.

Related coverage:

Honda to move part of domestic production to U.S. to fend off tariffs

Mitsubishi Motors to ask Taiwan's Hon Hai to produce EVs: sources

Honda, Nissan merger talks collapse over management structure
(FOX40.COM)  An investigation is underway after two men were shot in Rancho Cordova Tuesday night.

Both the Sacramento County Sheriffs Office and Rancho Cordova police responded to a shooting off Coloma Road near Zinfandel Drive.

When they arrived, they found a man who had sustained at least one gunshot wound to his back and was transported to a nearby hospital.

A spokesperson with the Sacramento Sheriffs Office says a second victim was shot and located at a another hospital. That person was reportedly not cooperating with deputies.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The sheriffs office is working to determine if the two shootings were connected.

The two victims are expected to survive.

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.
Construction of the battery plant in Glendale in January 2023. (BlueOval SK photo)

A nonprofit faith-based group that seeks to leverage its investing to advance human rights, racial equity and the common good is calling on automaker Ford to address claims of anti-union activities at the BlueOval SK battery plant in Kentucky.

The letter from Investor Advocates for Social Justice details the groups concerns over strong indications that BlueOval Kentucky is engaging in union avoidance activities, ranging from disseminating anti-union flyers and media to the United Auto Workers (UAW) telling the Washington Post that anti-union consultants have been brought in to persuade workers against unionization.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The UAW launched a campaign last year to unionize the BlueOval SK battery plant in Hardin County, and workers at the plant in January asked the National Labor Relations Board to hold a union election. The BlueOval SK battery plant, one of two planned at Glendale to produce batteries for electric vehicles, is jointly owned by Ford and South Korean company SK Group.

The investor group is urging Ford to address the concerns in an annual shareholder meeting Thursday.

Companies have an obligation to respect human rights, including freedom of association and collective bargaining, and to extend this obligation to their business relationships, which include joint ventures, the investor group wrote in part. Failure to uphold these rights can expose investors to material risks, including operational, reputational, regulatory, legal, and financial risks.

The letter also noted concerns brought by a community group in Tennessee over a BlueOval SK electric vehicle and battery plant there urging Ford to sign an agreement ensuring the operation doesnt harm the community environmentally or socioeconomically.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The letter comes after the New Jersey-based Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace, one of the members of the investor group, tried to offer a proposal to be voted on at Fords shareholder meeting that would have requested the companys board of directors adopt a noninterference policy for when workers seek to unionize at joint venture plants. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission granted Fords request to block the proposal from being voted on ahead of the meeting.

Susan Francois, assistant congregation leader and treasurer of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace, in a statement said their Catholic community believes it is both good business and the right thing to do to call on companies like Ford to respect human rights.

We urge Ford to effectively and expeditiously address these issues, which are not going away just because the shareholders have been prevented from voting on it, Francois said. God expects the economy to support life and the livelihood of all, not the few.

A news release about the investors letters notes that taxpayers have spent billions supporting Fords joint venture. The federal government announced $9.63 billion in loans in December to the three BlueOveral SK battery plants. Tennessee approved $900 million in incentives while Kentucky is providing $250 million in public subsidies.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mallory Cooke, a spokesperson for BlueOval SK, in an emailed statement said the company is excited about our future and strive to maintain our direct relationship with our employees. She said BlueOval SK supported federal law requiring a substantial and representative complement of employees have the opportunity to vote.

We celebrate and empower each team member to define their own success by speaking for themselves, Cooke said.

An email sent Wednesday afternoon to Ford requesting comment on the letter was not immediately returned.

This story was updated with a statement from a BlueOval SK spokesperson.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
Members of BlueOval Good Neighbors, a coalition of residents from Haywood, Tipton, Lauderdale, Shelby, and Fayette counties, march to BlueOval SK's Arlington, Tenn. office on May 6, 2025. (Photo: BlueOval Good Neighbors/Tennessee for All)

A group of Ford Motor Company investors sent a letter to the companys board May 1, asking it to address concerns over reported union-busting activity at a Kentucky battery plant and lack of engagement with Black communities surrounding its BlueOval City project in Tennessee.

The letter references three electric vehicle battery plants  two in Kentucky and one in Stanton, Tennessee  run by BlueOval SK, a 50/50 joint venture between Ford and Korea-based SK On.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While BlueOval SK is a separate legal entity from Ford, the signatories note the significant leverage and influence Ford has over this joint venture, and call on the company to expeditiously address these serious concerns.

The 14 investors who signed the letter urged board members to respond at Fords virtual Annual Meeting of Shareholders on May 8. Combined, the investors represent more than $58 billion in total assets under management, though their individual stakes in Ford are not public. Investor Advocates for Social Justice, which coordinated the investors effort, also signed.

The letter comes after one investor, Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace, filed a shareholder proposal in March asking Ford to adopt a policy to remain neutral in unionization efforts at its plants and to negotiate with BlueOval Good Neighbors, a community coalition pushing Ford for a legally binding community benefits agreement for the Tennessee BlueOval City project.

The proposal  which is solely advisory and not binding  would have gone on the companys proxy statement to be voted on by shareholders at the May 8 meeting, but Ford successfully requested the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission block the measure from the ballot, citing its vague nature and attempt to micromanage the company.

Members of BlueOval Good Neighbors, a coalition of residents from Haywood, Tipton, Lauderdale, Shelby, and Fayette counties, march to BlueOval SKs Arlington, Tenn. office on May 6, 2025. (Photo: BlueOval Good Neighbors/Tennessee for All)

Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace has long invested in Ford and other companies to help us fund our mission and take care of our sisters, Assistant Congregation Leader and Congregation Treasurer Sister Susan Francois said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It would be wonderful if our concerns over freedom of association and collective bargaining were addressed so that the workers were able to negotiate good working conditions, and then also that the Blue Oval Good Neighbors are able to raise their concerns and be in dialogue with Ford, Francois, who also sits on the Investor Advocates for Social Justice board, said. Ultimately, Ford are the ones that are running the company. We understand that. But as shareholders, we really just want them to be good neighbors, and believe itll be better for business.

In separate statements to Tennessee Lookout, BlueOval SK affirmed its compliance with U.S. labor laws and Ford highlighted its engagement with residents, community leaders and elected officials surrounding the new campus.

Investors had not yet received a response from Ford as of 4:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Union concerns

Workers at a BlueOval SK Battery Park in Glendale, Kentucky filed for an election to join the United Auto Workers union in January. A date has yet to be set for a secret-ballot election. If a majority of workers vote in favor of the union, the next step is negotiating a contract.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The letter expresses investors alarm at BlueOval SKs attempts to dissuade workers from unionizing, including anti-union flyers and materials on the companys website.

The ask of BlueOval SK would be to stop its anti-union campaign  investors believe that workers should truly have the freedom to unionize if they want, Aaron Acosta, program director at Investor Advocates for Social Justice, said Monday.

BlueOval SK has maintained that the January filing was premature, as the plant had not yet begun production or hired the plants full staff.

We celebrate and empower each team member to define their own success by speaking for themselves, spokesperson Mallory Cooke wrote in an email to Tennessee Lookout. BlueOval SK team members are free to choose whether to keep a direct relationship with leaders or turn over their voice to a labor union. BlueOval SK supports the U.S. labour law requirement that a substantial and representative complement of the employees impacted by this choice have the opportunity to vote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The National Labor Relations Board case database shows three open complaints against BlueOval SK in Kentucky, including allegations of coercive actions and statements, retaliation and interrogation. The NLRB has yet to reach decisions on these cases.

Company, coalition spar over good neighbor commitments

The Blue Oval Good Neighbors coalition, supported by advocacy group Tennessee for All, marched to BlueOval SKs corporate office in Arlington, Tennessee Tuesday to present a petition signed by more than 1,000 local residents in support of a binding agreement for the companys multi-billion dollar, taxpayer-subsidized project.

The group has pushed for Ford to commit to providing legal representation and subsidies for locals affected by eviction and land loss stemming from construction and rising property values surrounding the massive campus. They have also called for Ford to contribute to a bank of public land to be used for public projects, a commitment to 50% local hire in West Tennessee and the creation of a board of neighbors with oversight authority to ensure accountability.

Ford unveiled its $9 million Good Neighbor Plan to support areas surrounding the electric vehicle manufacturing campus in late January. The slate of investments was sourced from resident feedback and input from Fords hand-selected Equitable Growth Advisory Council.

Members of BlueOval Good Neighbors, a coalition of residents from Haywood, Tipton, Lauderdale, Shelby, and Fayette counties, are reflected in the windows of BlueOval SKs Arlington, Tenn. office on May 6, 2025. (Photo: BlueOval Good Neighbors/Tennessee for All)

Plans include the restoration of a historic African American schoolhouse into a new Ford Community Center in Stanton, in addition to scholarships for local automotive manufacturing programs, a new childcare facility, a community assistance fund for families facing temporary hardship and funding for mobile healthcare services.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While BlueOval Good Neighbors has said the companys plan does include some of its demands, it is not legally binding. The coalition has also criticized the makeup of Fords Equitable Growth Advisory Council, including elected officials who were serving during a 2021 Fayette County redistricting process that is now the subject of a U.S. Department of Justice voting rights lawsuit claiming the new maps strip Black voters of equal opportunity.

What we hear most from residents is that they want to speak for themselves, Ford spokesperson Jessica Enoch wrote in an email to Tennessee Lookout. Ford has been contacted by many groups that say they speak on behalf of residents, many of which are not from the area. It would not be feasible for us to engage with every third-party group that purports to speak on behalf of residents.

Enoch said residents can share ideas with Ford at commrels@ford.com.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
USDA approved a waiver from Iowa to implement its own program to distribute food to families in need over the summer. (Photo by Lance Cheung/USDA)

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved the Healthy Kids Iowa demonstration project in lieu of the federal governments summer nutrition program for children, Gov. Kim Reynolds announced Wednesday.

A press release from the governors office called the program an alternative to the federal program that will feed children healthier foods at a lower cost.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the release, Healthy Kids Iowa will leverage partnerships with summer feeding programs and community providers that have more than 500 access points across the state.

In a video posted to her social media accounts, Reynolds said the program will allow eligible families to select $40 of fresh, nutritious food each month from the access points.

Were going to focus on easy to prepare meals for kids, without compromising nutrition, Reynolds said in the video.

The distribution sites will offer a selection of foods each month that are healthy and kid friendly according to the press release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Families with children aged 4 to 18 and with household income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level are eligible for the program. For a household of four, that represents an annual income of around $57,700 or lower.

Access points are determined by Feeding America Food Banks that will identify areas of need throughout Iowa. Families will apply for the program with The Emergency Food Assistance Program, or TEFAP, application.

Iowa is one of only 11 states not participating in the federal program, known as SUN Bucks, this summer, according to USDA. The state also opted out of the program in 2024, and instead chose to expand the number of summer meal sites in the state.

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins applauded Reynolds for what she called an historic step.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We are encouraging governors across the entire country to explore creative ways to provide food for those in need while also doing right by the American tax payer, Rollins said in a video statement.

According to Des Moines Area Religious Council, this $900,000 expansion in 2024 still left an estimated 54% of Iowa school districts without a meal site in 2024.

The SUN Bucks program is also called the Summer EBT, or electronic benefits transfer, program because funds are distributed on EBT cards monthly, allowing recipients to shop at eligible stores.

The SUN Bucks program provides $120 to families per eligible school-aged child during the summer. Children who qualify for free or reduced school lunches, or families who already participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, are eligible for SUN Bucks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to USDA in 2024 when the program launched, it represented a $100 million investment.

Reynolds has opposed the federal SUN Bucks program for fear that it would lead to unhealthy food purchases and worsen childhood obesity.

in August 2024, Iowa submitted a waiver request as part of an effort to implement a program similar to Healthy Kids Iowa, which the USDA denied.

Reynolds said in November she would try again for a waiver, hoping for an outcome in her favor under the Trump administration. Food security advocates then urged the governor to instead apply for the demonstration project in tandem with the federally available program.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Iowa Hunger Coalition, in a statement Wednesday, said it was concerned about the barriers Healthy Kids Iowa might place on families trying to access it, and on the feeding organizations who are already experiencing record-breaking levels of need.

We continue to believe that the best way to serve Iowas low-income kids during the summer is through evidence-based USDA summer meal programs: summer meal sites, grab n go sites, and Summer EBT, or SUN Bucks, the statement read.

The coalition said the distribution of summer nutrition funds via EBT, per the SUN Bucks program, reaches families who live in rural communities or have working parents who might not be able to make it to a food pantry or feeding center during its operating hours.

As further details are released about the Healthy Kids Iowa Pilot Program we hope these concerns are addressed to ensure that each and every child who qualifies is served and has their individual nutritional needs met by the program, the statement read.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
The Iranian government has called on both sides to exercise restraint in the conflict between India and Pakistan.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei described the recent military escalation as a serious cause for concern, according to a statement issued by the Foreign Ministry in Tehran. He expressed the hope that both sides could still de-escalate.

On Monday, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was in the Pakistani capital Islamabad to mediate between the South Asian nuclear powers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tehran justifies its offer to mediate with its balanced relations with both states.

It is still unclear whether a trip to India planned for Thursday by the minister will take place as scheduled.

India attacked several targets in Pakistan and the Pakistani-controlled part of the troubled region of Kashmir. According to the Pakistani military, 26 people were killed and 46 others injured.
An outspoken and angry beachfront property owner appeared in a state court this week  without the legal team he recently fired  and began blasting away at South Carolina environmental officials over a $289,000 fine levied against him for construction of a seawall they say is illegal and should be removed.

Joined at the defense table by only his wife and a lawyer not directly involved in the case, Rom Reddy told the court Tuesday that he is a law-abiding citizen targeted by the states environmental agency over work he conducted at his seaside home on the Isle of Palms.

Reddy, animated and periodically pointing his finger to emphasize his points, told Judge Ralph King Anderson III that the S.C. Department of Environmental Services is trying to take his property through regulation and enforcement actions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said the agency is being manipulated by the S.C. Coastal Conservation League environmental group. The league, a non-profit organization that advocates for beach protection, disputed that.

I understand a little bit more than unelected bureaucrats, Reddy, a businessman and engineer, told Anderson during opening remarks this week. This is an unusual situation where we sit here with the citizens, my beautiful wife and myself .... against the police power to the state and a taxpayer funded charity.

The Reddy case is being watched closely since it has the potential to curb state efforts to enforce beach protection laws that were established decades ago in response to the threat of sea level rise, a phenomenon that today is occurring along the South Carolina coast as the earths climate warms. The state banned seawalls on the sandy beach 36 years ago because they worsen erosion when hit by waves and block the publics ability to stroll the public shoreline. Reddy claims an infringement of his property rights by the states action.

Reddy, an affluent coastal newspaper owner and outspoken advocate against government regulation, took the unusual position of representing himself in a courtroom after firing his lawyers last week over what he called a fee dispute. A self-described person of means who contributed $2.5 million to a conservative political action committee he founded, Reddy said he could not afford to pay the attorneys any longer. Rarely do people involved in administrative law court cases represent themselves.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In court, Reddy, neatly dressed in a dark suit and wearing glasses, said state law allowed him to conduct work on the section of the beach where construction work occurred. He contends that if hes deprived use of the land, he should be compensated for the states regulatory restrictions.

He said the Environmental department is treating him differently than other property owners who have established seawalls along the beaches, notably a group at Hilton Head Island the state went easy on. A department official who testified Tuesday denied that.

This weeks trial brought a larger-than-normal crowd to the Administrative Law Court, a judiciary body that often hears routine cases about whether to issue environmental, health and business permits. Among those at the hearing was Wesley Donehue, one of the states most well-known political strategists and public relations experts who is representing Reddy.

The court proceedings are going on through the week. Anderson likely would not make a determination this week on whether Reddy must pay the $289,000 fine and tear out the seawall.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite his fiery defense, Department of Environmental Services lawyers and staff said the case against Reddy for building a seawall on the beach is clear cut: Its illegal to do that in South Carolina, and has been for decades. And Reddy repeatedly dismissed state warnings not to build on the beach, they said.

Were here today about a total disregard of the law, Environmental Services lawyer Sallie Phelan said in her opening remarks. We are here about two seawalls the Reddys constructed on the beach at Isle of Palms to protect their yard, despite the departments repeated warning that it was not authorized and the department believed it to be a violation of the South Carolina coastal tidelands and wetlands law.

Phelan said Reddy had contractors put clay, rocks, concrete and other material on the beach to protect his house from the ocean, while eventually building a seawall to back up an aging wall that was failing. The area was being threatened by the sea, according to court records and testimony this week.

Reddy had attempted to fix the first wall, before having contractors establish a second wall behind it, she said before showing photographs of repair and construction work at Reddys house. Some of the photos showed that the ocean had run onto his property, damaging the wall and a yard overtopped with artificial turf.

Isle of Palms property owner Rom Reddy has been in a dispute with state officials over construction they say was done illegally on the beach. This photo shows the property in Charleston County, where a seawall was built on the beach. Reddy says the work was legal.

Former Department of Environmental Services beach regulator Matt Slagel testified that he had visited the area near Reddys home 18-20 times from the summer of 2023 to late 2024 because of erosion issues that were occurring on that end of Isle of Palms, a popular area near the inlet adjacent to Sullivans Island. Slagel said the ocean was eating away at the oceanfront land where the Reddys have lived since 2014.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At issue is where state jurisdiction begins and ends on the beach. South Carolina has a series of building restriction lines along the oceanfront, which often are near the back of the beach or in the dunes. They were established to discourage development close to the rising ocean.

In some cases, however, the beach has eroded so much that the sandy seashore has been exposed outside the building restriction lines. The Reddy dispute centers on that part of the beach. Reddy says the state has no jurisdiction outside the building restriction lines, but the state says it does.

Anderson, in a preliminary ruling last month, agreed the state has jurisdiction over the entire beach, but the full trial will determine how the judge ultimately rules.

Reddy contends changes in state law in recent years made the work he did on the beach legal, but state officials say the law still gives them authority to protect all of the sandy beach, not just the areas with building restriction lines.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During the trial this week, Reddy grilled Slagel over the agencys examination of his property following storms. He took particular aim at an issue on Hilton Head Island more than five years ago, when property owners built a seawall along the shoreline. He said he was treated more harshly and by a different standards.

But Slagel said he didnt think Reddy was being treated any differently than anyone else and that his former agency was simply enforcing South Carolinas beach protection law. While Reddy said he did not ignore state advice about constructing along the each, Slagel said you did not cease and desist.

Though not a lawyer, Reddy asked multiple detailed questions about the states beach protection law, trying to make the point that it did not restrict him from building the wall at his home. But the trial was also peppered with commentary by Reddy, who said, among other things, thathes being treated poorly in stories by the fake news and is standing up against what he calls the agency state. Anderson chastised him for calling state regulators liars.

Among other things, Reddy questioned why the government had not pumped extra sand on the beach at Isle of Palms to protect his property and that of others. Had that been done, the dispute about construction and beach erosion would not have popped up in the first place, he said. He also said his stance has irked some people, who have threatened to burn down my wall. He said he contacted police about the threats.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Reddy, an ardent supporter of President Donald Trump whose political action committee supports candidates he agrees with, has been actively posting on X about what he calls government tyranny and a taking of peoples land through coastal development regulations. He was so upset with the DES fine against him that he urged the state Senate not to confirm its interim director as permanent director.

Early in the week, Reddy said on X that he was prepared to fight.

The unelected agency state is trying to apply a new interpretation of the regulation on property rights that would give them unlimited property rights that can vary by homeowner, depending on their judgment, he wrote of the S.C. Department of Environmental Services coastal bureau.

In another X posting, Reddy said we kneel to God, not government.
JERUSALEM (Reuters) -Three Israeli hostages in Gaza previously thought to be living may be dead, leaving 21 definitely believed to be alive, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday, confirming comments made by U.S. President Donald Trump.

Speaking at an event at the White House on Tuesday, Trump said 24 hostages were alive a week ago but the figure was now 21. He did not cite a source or provide further details.

Gal Hirsch, Israel's coordinator for hostage issues, had said in a post on X that the Palestinian militant group Hamas was holding 59 hostages of whom 24 were alive and 35 dead - figures unchanged since before Trump spoke.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Netanyahu's comments appeared to confirm the figure cited by Trump.

"We know for certain that 21 are alive  thats not in dispute. There are three others where, unfortunately, its uncertain whether they're alive," Netanyahu said in filmed remarks posted on social media.

A spokesperson for a group representing hostage families said: "The headquarters again calls on the prime minister to stop the war until the return of the last abductee. This is the most urgent and important national task."

The fate of the hostages is a visceral issue for most Israelis and one that has caused increasing disquiet and division in Israeli society as the war has dragged on.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A total of 251 people were taken hostage during the Hamas attacks on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, in which some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed, according to Israeli tallies.

Most of the hostages returned alive to Israel so far were released as part of deals with Hamas during two temporary ceasefires in late 2023 and early 2025.

Since the abductions, Israel has responded with an air and ground assault on Gaza that has killed more than 52,000 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health authorities there, and reduced much of the enclave to ruins.

The government says its two war aims are to destroy Hamas and release the hostages. This week it has announced an expansion of its offensive on Gaza, causing hostage families to fear this will further endanger their loved ones.

(Reporting by Andreea Popescu and Estelle Shirbon; Editing by Ros Russell and Howard Goller)
Israel's military said it eliminated a senior Hezbollah commander in southern Lebanon in a Tuesday attack targeting the Iran-backed militia's logistical operations.

The strike in the Nabatieh region "eliminated the terrorist Adnan Muhammad Sadiq Harb, the commander of the logistical support unit in Hezbollah's Badr unit, which operates in the northern Litani area in Lebanon," the Israeli military said in a post on Telegram.

Harb was responsible for supplying weapons to Hezbollah units and for rebuilding the group's military infrastructure south of the Litani River, Israel's military said, calling his activities a "blatant violation of the understandings between Israel and Lebanon."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Since late November, a fragile ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel has been in place.

Under the terms of the truce, Hezbollah agreed to withdraw behind the Litani River  approximately 30 kilometres north of the Israeli-Lebanese border  while Israeli troops were to completely exit from southern Lebanon. The Lebanese army is supposed to monitor compliance with the agreement.
Israels attacks on Gaza have killed at least 61 people since dawn, targeting civilians in crowded places as its more than two-month blockade of the besieged and bombarded enclave has caused acute food shortages, accelerating the starvation of the Palestinian population.

A reconnaissance drone strike targeted an area near the Thai and Palmyra restaurants on al-Wehda Street in Gaza City on Wednesday. Two missiles were fired at two locations at the same time, 100 metres (110 yards) apart, one inside a restaurant and another at an intersection, killing at least 17 people.

Reporting from Gaza City, Al Jazeeras Hani Mahmoud said the attack hit one of the few places where Palestinians are able to get a meal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The tables and chairs are all thrown around, and blood stains the ground as a result of severe bleeding, Mahmoud said, reporting from a crowd of residents and street vendors examining the destruction after the attack.

At the site of the attack on the nearby intersection, Mahmoud said people were on the ground soaked in blood and shredded into pieces.

Another attack in Gaza City killed 13 people at al-Karama School in the Tuffah neighbourhood

Other Israeli strikes on Wednesday were scattered across Gaza. Three people were killed and several wounded in a strike on a house in Jabalia in northern Gaza.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Another eight people  including a father, his children and cousins  were killed in the southern city of Khan Younis. Five were killed in a strike on one home.

Another three people, including a child, died when a tent shelter was attacked in Deir el-Balah in the central Gaza Strip. A husband and wife were also killed when a house was hit in Bani Suheila village in eastern Gaza.

The dead also included four people whose bodies were recovered from under the rubble of an Israeli attack earlier this week on a school sheltering displaced people in the Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza. The Palestinian Civil Defence agency said on Tuesday night that more than 30 people had been killed and dozens wounded there.

Scrambling for cover

Mahmoud said Palestinians were scrambling for cover as air strikes and explosions struck residential buildings and evacuation centres across Gaza.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We have confirmed that a farmer was killed in the eastern part of Khan Younis, in Abasan, as he was trying to harvest what he managed to plant in the past couple of months, making up for the lack of food, Mahmoud said.

This is one of the elements that we have been seeing quite visibly. Not only are they suffering on a daily basis because of the enforced starvation and dehydration, they [also] try to plant their own food, but they are deprived, and their abilities to do so are [thwarted] by the ongoing attacks, he added.

[Al Jazeera]

The intensified attacks have been compounded by an Israeli blockade on essential supplies since March 2, leaving the enclave deprived of fuel and food, including flour. Aid groups have said food supplies are close to total depletion.

The United States-based World Central Kitchen charity said it has halted work in the Gaza Strip after it was prevented by Israel from bringing in aid and ran out of supplies.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After serving more than 130 million total meals and 26 million loaves of bread over the past 18 months, World Central Kitchen no longer has the supplies to cook meals or bake bread in Gaza, it said on Wednesday in a post on X.

A mother of six sheltering at a facility run by the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) told the agency her family only had bread after they had run out of all other types of food.

The State of Israel must lift the siege, UNRWA wrote on X on Wednesday.

There must be a concerted international effort to stop this humanitarian catastrophe from reaching a new unseen level, it added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gazas health sector is also bearing the brunt of the ongoing attacks and blockade. At least 88 percent of beds in hospitals are occupied, and their staffs are trying to treat patients as they face shortages of medical supplies.





Ceasefire talks

On Wednesday, Egypt and Qatar, which both mediated this years ceasefire alongside the US, reaffirmed their commitment to an agreement aimed at ending the unprecedented humanitarian crisis and alleviating the suffering of civilians by fostering the necessary conditions for achieving a comprehensive ceasefire.

The two countries emphasise that attempts to sow discord among brotherly nations  whether through the casting of doubt, distortion, or media escalation  will not succeed, nor will they deter the two nations from continuing their joint efforts to end the war and the resulting humanitarian catastrophe, a joint statement read, adding that the countries were working with the US to reach a deal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While Israel announced that a more intense military offensive would begin in Gaza unless a ceasefire was signed, Hamas said the talks were pointless.

There is no sense in engaging in talks or considering new ceasefire proposals as long as the hunger war and extermination war continue in the Gaza Strip, Hamas official Basem Naim told the AFP news agency on Tuesday.
NEW DELHI/ISLAMABAD - India said Wednesday it has attacked "terrorist infrastructure sites" in Pakistan following a deadly incident that occurred on the Indian side of the disputed Kashmir region last month.

The Pakistan military said the strikes by Indian missiles killed at least 26 people and left 46 others injured, labelling it an attack targeting civilian areas. It announced the launch of a retaliatory attack and shot down five Indian aircraft.

The strikes hit nine locations in Pakistan and the Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, targeting the roots of cross-border terror planning, the Indian Defense Ministry said.

India's actions "have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature," the ministry said, adding, "No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and the method of execution."

Condemning the Indian missile strikes, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said, "The cunning enemy has carried out a cowardly attack."

"Pakistan has every right to give a befitting reply to this act of war imposed by India and a befitting reply is being given."

The Pakistani Foreign Ministry said the Indian air force used standoff weapons from Indian airspace to violate Pakistan's sovereignty and attack civilian-populated areas across the border not only in Kashmir but also in other regions.

Press Trust of India reported the Pakistani army conducted heavy artillery and mortar shelling on Indian villages along the Kashmir border, killing at least nine people and injuring 41 others.

India last staged an airstrike on Pakistan in 2019 when it attacked a militant training camp in the Pakistani-administered portion of Kashmir, following a suicide bombing that killed 40 security force personnel in the India-controlled portion.

U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres called for restraint from both countries, saying "the world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan."

Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said the government is following the situation closely while reiterating its condemnation of the terrorist attack in Kashmir last month.

"We are strongly concerned that further retaliatory exchanges will escalate into a full-blown military conflict," the top government spokesman said at a press conference in Tokyo.

"We strongly urge India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and stabilize the situation through dialogue for the peace and stability of South Asia," Hayashi said.

Later Wednesday, Japan's government said Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya told his Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar during phone talks that a "fair investigation" into the terrorist incident is important.

On April 22, an armed group opened fire at tourists on a prairie near a resort area in the Kashmir region, leaving 26 people dead and many others injured.

A group affiliated with a Pakistan-based Muslim extremist organization initially claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement but later denied its involvement.

India said Pakistan was involved in the incident and closed the main border crossing, suspended a river water sharing treaty and imposed other punitive measures.

Islamabad denied New Delhi's claim and took countermeasures such as suspending bilateral trade.

India and Pakistan have hotly contested Kashmir since the partition of the subcontinent in 1947, and the territorial row between the two states developed into a nuclear arms race. India and Pakistan, which have not signed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, are considered de facto nuclear-weapon states.

Related coverage:

Pakistan hopes to revive North Korea talks in return to Security Council

Japan, India agree on deeper defense ties, eye new dialogue body

Military spending in 2024 rises unprecedented 9.4% to $2.72 trillion
BEIRUT (AP)  An Israeli drone strike on a car in southern Lebanon killed an official with the Palestinian militant group Hamas early Wednesday, authorities said.

Hamas said in a statement that Khaled Ahmad al-Ahmad, who was a member of its military wing, was killed while he was on his way to a mosque to attend dawn prayers.

The Israeli military confirmed that it had targeted al-Ahmad, saying he was a commander with Hamas in south Lebanon and was behind several attacks against Israel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Since Hamas' attack on southern Israel triggered the war on Oct. 7, 2023, Israels military has targeted members of the group in Lebanon, where Hamas has a military presence.

The group has also carried out rocket attacks from Lebanon since the Israel-Hamas war began, and in recent weeks Lebanese authorities detained several men linked to Hamas on suspicion of firing rockets toward Israel.

Lebanese authorities warned Hamas last week that it would face the harshest measures, if it carried out any attacks from Lebanon.
BOSTON (WWLP)  In a Tuesday press conference, Governor Healey announced a partnership and expansion of an Israeli medical innovation center in Massachusetts.

According to the Governor, Sheba Medical System is the largest and most comprehensive in the Middle East, and their ARC center, which stands for Accelerate, Redesign, and Collaborate, drives physician-led start-ups to better patient outcomes.

Sheba has already expanded to the UK, New Zealand, Singapore, Germany, and elsewhere.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The accelerator will leverage Massachusetts world-class healthcare institutions, our clinical research, our tech innovation, and so much more to address the critical health challenges that confront us, said Governor Healey.

The medical centers director spoke about the necessity of partnership between countries to foster medical advancement, saying healthcare is not a strictly government issue.

We treat Jews, and Christians, and Arabs, and Muslims, and Palestinians, every day at Sheba. We believe that healthcare is the only non-political sector of life, said Director General of Sheba Medical Center Professor Yitshak Kreiss.

The governor says she expects this partnership to not just advance healthcare innovation, but also to contribute to the economy and global affairs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This partnership with Sheba furthers the state governments commitment to working with Israel, which is consistent with Governor Healeys past statements.

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.

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.
By Nidal al-Mughrabi and Ramadan Abed

CAIRO/GAZA (Reuters) -At least 48 people were killed on Wednesday in Israeli airstrikes on a school that housed families displaced by the conflict and which was located close to a crowded market and restaurant in Gaza City, local health authorities said.

Medics said two strikes targeted the Karama School in Tuffah, a suburb of Gaza City, killing 15. Later in the day, an Israeli strike near a restaurant and market in the city killed at least 33 people, including women and children, medics said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There was no immediate Israeli comment.

Reuters footage of the scene near the market showed wounded men being rushed away on the back of pickups and carts. Ambulances sped down shattered streets and a woman in tears carried a baby away from the scene, with two young children beside her.

"The blood was like a lake, oh my baby, pools of blood," she screamed.

Ahmed Al-Saoudi said he witnessed the airstrike near the market. "People come to the market to get what they need if they can find it ... Neither the people nor the animals were safe. Neither the young nor the old."

An image posted on social media showed what appeared to be a family of three - mother, father and son - lying dead on the street in pools of blood. The young boy was carrying a pink backpack. Reuters could not immediately verify the image that was purportedly from the scene near the restaurant.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Two Israeli airstrikes on another school, housing displaced people in Bureij camp in central Gaza, killed at least 33 people, including women and children, on Tuesday, local health authorities said. The Israeli military said it struck "terrorists" operating from a command center in the compound.

The strike smashed classrooms, destroyed furniture and left a large crater in the school campus. On Wednesday, survivors sifted through rubble to look for some of their belongings.

"What happened is an earthquake. The Israeli occupation hit a school housing children. They are children," said eyewitness Ali Al-Shaqra. He said the school housed 300 families.

"Here is the building; it was razed to the ground. We cannot find the gas cylinder, the flour bag we had, the kilo of rice, or the meal we got from the Tukkiyah (community kitchen). Thank God we are left with the clothes we had on," Shaqra added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip, near the border with Egypt, residents and Hamas sources said Israeli forces, who have taken control of the city, continued to blow up and demolish houses and buildings.

Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of the Palestinian militant group Hamas, said on Wednesday their fighters had detonated a pre-planted minefield targeting an Israeli armoured force east of Khan Younis in the south. They said they inflicted casualties, followed by mortar shelling of the area.

AID HALTED

Israel resumed its offensive in March after the collapse of a U.S.-backed ceasefire that had halted fighting for two months. It has since imposed an aid blockade, drawing warnings from the UN that the 2.3 million population faces imminent famine.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Israeli troops have already taken over an area amounting to around a third of Gaza, displacing the population and building watchtowers and surveillance posts on cleared ground the military has described as security zones.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he will expand the offensive against Hamas after his security cabinet approved plans that may include seizing the entire Gaza Strip and controlling aid.

But an Israeli defence official said on Monday the operation would not be launched before U.S. President Donald Trump concludes his visit next week to the Middle East, and there was a "window of opportunity" for a ceasefire and hostage release deal during Trump's visit.

A senior Hamas official, Bassem Naim, said on Wednesday the group would not agree to any interim truce in return for a resumption of aid for a few days, and insisted on a full ceasefire deal to end the war.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Naim said Hamas would not accept "desperate attempts before Trump's visit, through the crime of starvation, the continuation of genocide, and the threat of expanding military action to achieve a partial agreement that returns some (Israeli) prisoners in exchange for a few days of food and drink".

The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas killed 1,200 people and took 251 hostage, according to Israeli tallies.

Israel's campaign has killed more than 52,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, according to Hamas-run health authorities, and reduced much of Gaza to ruins.

The Hamas-run Gaza government's media office said two local journalists, Nour Abdu and Yehya Sbeih, were killed in Wednesday's attacks, raising the number of Palestinian journalists killed by Israeli fire since the war began to 214.

(Reporting and writing by Nidal al-Mughrabi. Additional reporting by Ramadan Abed in GazaEditing by Ros Russell and Joe Bavier)
At least 33 people, including women and children, have been killed in an Israeli attack on a neighbourhood in Gaza City, the Hamas-controlled health authority said on Wednesday.

A further 86 people were injured in the airstrike, it said.

The Palestinian WAFA news agency reported that rockets hit a restaurant and a nearby busy intersection with market stalls, killing a Palestinian journalist among others.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Videos circulating in Palestinian media showed blood-covered victims at tables and on the floor of the devastated restaurant, as well as in the market.

The footage and information could not initially be independently verified. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said it would investigate the report.

After a separate attack on a former school building in the city, volunteers recovered 15 bodies from the rubble, according to the Hamas-controlled civil defence service. Ten others were reported injured.

Palestinian sources said the building had been used to house displaced people. Local media published footage reportedly showing several men, some in a state of despair, mourning the victims wrapped in shrouds.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The information about the attack could not be independently verified and the Israeli military did not initially comment on the reports when asked.

Recent Gaza death toll mounting

According to WAFA, at least 61 people have been killed in attacks in the Gaza Strip since Monday night. Medical sources said the number of people killed in an attack on a former school building housing displaced people in Al-Bureij on Tuesday evening has risen to 33 from 17.

Israel said that evening it had attacked a Hamas command and control centre where weapons were also stored.

Israel recently announced that it intends to further intensify its offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip with the stated aim of pressurizing the Palestinian Islamist group to release more hostages.

Israel says it intercepted drone from Yemen

The Israeli military said it had intercepted a drone fired from Yemen on Wednesday, after warning sirens sounded.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Israeli media reports said the drone was fired by the Iran-backed Houthi militia in Yemen.

Since the start of the Gaza war in October 2023, the Houthis have repeatedly attacked Israel and international merchant ships in solidarity with their Palestinian ally, Hamas.

A Houthi missile struck near Israel's Ben Gurion International Airport outside Tel Aviv on Sunday for the first time. The Israeli Air Force responded with massive airstrikes on militia targets in Yemen.

The United States has been attacking Houthi targets in Yemen for months with the stated aim of protecting international shipping in the Red Sea.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Tuesday evening, the Houthis agreed in principle to a ceasefire with the United States on the condition that Washington also abides by it.

"The US interfered to support the Israeli entity by attacking Yemen. So, if they stopped their aggression, we will stop responding," Houthi spokesman Mohamed Abdel-Salam told al-Masirah TV late on Tuesday.

Abdel-Salam stressed that the militia's stance towards Israel remains unchanged.

Hostage families shocked after Trump revises death toll

With the war in Gaza continuing unabated as Israeli hostages remain in captivity, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday contradicted official Israeli figures and announced that three more of the people held in Gaza have died, leaving 21 alive.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Relatives of the hostages reacted with dismay on Wednesday. Cherut Nimrodi, the mother of a soldier kidnapped in the Gaza Strip, told the Israeli news portal ynet that she was concerned that information was being withheld from the families.

She is from one of three families whose relatives are being held hostage and whose fate remains unclear, Nimrodi said. She added that there has been no sign of life from her son since he was kidnapped on October 7, 2023.

Nimrodi said she was surprised that Trump had stated so categorically that three hostages had been killed. "Where did he get this information?" she asked.

She noted that the US president often makes "statements that are not fully verified," but said she was still very concerned.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Israeli government's official position is that 24 hostages are still alive and that Hamas-allied groups are holding the bodies of another 35 people. However, Sara Netanyahu, the prime minister's wife, recently said there were probably fewer.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum issued a statement after Trump's comments, calling on the Israeli government to provide it with any new information. It also demanded an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza war and the release of all hostages.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC)  Customers of Jacksons Bakery on Stone Road in Greece reached out to News 8 recently when they discovered a sign outside the business that read closed, but they have since re-opened after a rough Easter holiday season.

The reason for the closure had to do with employees walking out and not having the means to stay open, especially after the holidays.

News 8 spoke with the owner who apologized to his customers saying hes sorry for the closure and plans to remain open.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I apologize for not being able to hang on to workers to feed you, but when the quality goes down, I cant help but to say something. Thats my job. I was just doing my job, owner Matthew Belk 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 RochesterFirst.
Jay-Z at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on December 09, 2024. - Credit: Gilbert Flores/Variety

Jay-Z is doubling down, adding new allegations to the malicious prosecution and defamation lawsuit he filed against his Jane Doe rape accuser and her lawyers in Alabama.

In an amended complaint filed late Monday in Mobile, the Roc Nation founder alleges his accuser has not stopped making statements about him even though she agreed in February to voluntarily dismiss the sexual assault lawsuit that first identified him by name last year. In that revised version of her complaint, filed Dec. 8, Doe publicly accused Jay-Z of raping her alongside Sean Combs at a MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) afterparty when she was 13 years old.

More from Rolling Stone

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In his new filing, Jay-Z claims that as recently as April 11, the Jane Doe posted a lip-synched video on TikTok that stated, You couldnt pay me a million dollars to get an apology video out of me, I stand on what I said, fuck you.

By refusing to apologize, and continuing to stand on what [she] said, despite all the evidence and, indeed, her own admissions to the contrary, Doe continues to display a shocking and reckless disregard for the truth that is both intentional and malicious, Jay-Zs amended complaint, obtained by Rolling Stone, states. Doe never had any reasonable grounds to support any truth in her statements and acted with reckless disregard for the truth, the filing continues to allege. In other words, she lied.

Jay-Z, born Shawn Carter, filed the new complaint after the Jane Doe and her high-profile lawyer Tony Buzbee challenged his initial lawsuit with arguments he failed to show the special injury needed to pursue his claims. They said Carters prior allegation that Roc Nation lost out on an unspecified $20 million payday was not sufficient. (Buzbee and Doe also challenged the Alabama lawsuit by arguing Does claims were protected under the privilege extended to lawsuits filed in good faith.)

In his amended lawsuit, Carter claims the $20 million represented the minimum fee guarantee of an undisclosed contract, and that the full fee for the deal would have been many millions of dollars higher had the contract been performed. Carter also alleges fallout from Does allegations also harmed his ability to pursue new business opportunities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As a result of defendants filing of the false lawsuit and other false public statements against Mr. Carter, Mr. Carter was denied a $55 million personal credit line, the amended complaint alleges. It also claims that Roc Nation also was denied a $115 million loan, and that Carter and Roc Nation are inextricably tied, so what happens to one, happens to both. (Carter is a 50 percent owner of Roc Nation, the filing states.)

The case is meritless and should be dismissed, Buzbee tells Rolling Stone in a statement sent Tuesday. He focused much of his disdain on a new accusation regarding his alleged tampering with Wikipedia pages.



In the amended complaint, Carter claims Buzbee directed his employees to edit Wikipedia pages to enhance Buzbees image and damage Mr. Carters and Roc Nations reputations, saying such a move would violate Wikipedias rules. Users with an IP address directly linked to the Buzbee Firm made over 100 positive edits to Buzbees Wikipedia page, the new filing alleges.



Thats a first for me and is incredibly weak, Buzbee says of the Wikipedia claim.

Carter first sued the Jane Doe directly in March, four months after he sued Buzbee and Buzbees Houston-based law firm in November. In both lawsuits, Carter claimed Buzbee knew, or should have known, that he was peddling alleged lies when he filed the revised Dec. 8 lawsuit accusing Carter of being the male celebrity described in a lawsuit that was first filed against Combs in October. Carter claimed Buzbee sent him a demand letter in early November to squeeze him for money and then added him to the Combs lawsuit because he refused to strike a secret settlement.

The Los Angeles County judge overseeing Carters California-based defamation lawsuit has already held numerous hearings on Buzbees attempts to dismiss Carters claims as frivolous. On Monday, the judge ordered Carters camp to submit the hotly contested audio recording that private investigators made of Doe outside her Alabama home on Feb. 21, 2025.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rolling Stone previously obtained a portion of the alleged doorstep discussion with the Jane Doe. In the snippet, one of the investigators specifically asked if Doe was saying that Carter was at the VMAs afterparty but didnt have anything to do with the any sexual acts towards you.

Yeah, Doe replied. The other investigator then asked if it was Buzbee who suggested Carter had a role in the alleged attack following the VMAs. He was the one that kind of pushed me towards going forward with him, with Jay-Z, the woman replied. Buzbee later claimed that his client was intimidated by the investigators and that her statements were being twisted by Carter. His lawyer in the California case, Samuel Moniz, told the court last month that Carters extortion and defamation claims have no merit.

This is a well-funded powerful figure who is trying to punish lawyers for doing what lawyers do, Moniz argued in court on April 8. Mr. Carter is obviously really mad and determined to use his resources to send a message to lawyers and plaintiffs everywhere. Any fair interpretation of this case is that this is an attack on the right to free speech and the right to free petition. This is an abusive case that deserves to be dismissed.

The next hearing in the California case is set for June 12.

Best of Rolling Stone

Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
JAY-Zs rape lawsuit was dismissed in February, but he is not done seeking justice against his accuser and her attorneys for alleged defamation. The Roc Nation leader filed an amended complaint late Monday (May 5) in Mobile, Alabama, alleging his accuser has not stopped making defamatory statements about him even though she agreed to. He and his legal team are claiming her actions have cost him and his company millions of dollars in potential revenue.

In his new filing, Jay claims that as recently as April 11, the Jane Doe posted a TikTok of her lip-syncing an audio that may lead viewers to assume shes referencing and doubling down on her case. You couldnt pay me a million dollars to get an apology video out of me, I stand on what I said, f**k you, the audio says.

Rolling Stone has obtained the amended complaint, which explains why Does actions affect his business. By refusing to apologize, and continuing to stand on what [she] said, despite all the evidence and, indeed, her own admissions to the contrary, Doe continues to display a shocking and reckless disregard for the truth that is both intentional and malicious, the 99 Problems rappers complaint reads. Doe never had any reasonable grounds to support any truth in her statements and acted with reckless disregard for the truth. In other words, she lied.

LANDOVER, MARYLAND  NOVEMBER 24: Rapper Jay-Z (C) looks on before a game between the Washington Commanders and the Dallas Cowboys at Northwest Stadium on November 24, 2024 in Landover, Maryland.

Also in his amended lawsuit, Jay clarified a prior claim that Roc Nation lost out on an unspecified $20 million. The statement says the $20 million represented the minimum fee guarantee of an undisclosed contract, and that the full fee for the deal would have been many millions of dollars higher had the contract been performed. He also alleges Does allegations significantly affected his ability to pursue new business opportunities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As a result of defendants filing of the false lawsuit and other false public statements against Mr. Carter, Mr. Carter was denied a $55 million personal credit line, the amended complaint claims. It also says Roc Nation was denied a $115 million loan. The legal team argues this directly affects Jay as well because he and Roc are inextricably tied.

On Dec. 8, 2024, Doe publicly accused JAY-Z of raping her alongside Sean Diddy Combs at a MTV VMAs afterparty when she was 13 years old. She voluntarily dismissed the suit in February and the Brooklyn rapper sued her attorney, Tony Buzbee, for extortion and defamation.

Alex Spiro, JAY-Zs attorney, also issued an individual statement at the time: The false case against JAY-Z, that never should have been brought, has been dismissed with prejudice. By standing up in the face of heinous and false allegations, Jay has done what few can  he pushed back, he never settled, he never paid 1 red penny, he triumphed and cleared his name.

More from VIBE.com

Sign up for Vibe's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Cory Bowman, Vice President JD Vances half-brother, has advanced to Novembers general election in the Cincinnati, Ohio, mayoral race, despite picking up just 13 percent of the vote in Tuesdays non-partisan primary.

Bowman, 36, running as a Republican, finished second in the three-way contest, a long way behind Democratic incumbent Aftab Pureval, 42, who scored 82.5 percent of the vote, but ahead of fellow Republican Brian Frank, 66, who picked up just 4.6 percent.

The result means that Frank is eliminated, setting up a two-horse race between Pureval and Bowman on November 4.

Left to right: Incumbent Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval and Republican challengers Cory Bowman and Brian Frank (Carolyn Kaster/AP)

Cincinnati is a heavily Democrat-leaning city, so much so that Republicans have not fielded a candidate in its mayoral elections since future congressman Brad Wenstrup lost to incumbent Mark Mallory in 2009.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That sentiment was reflected in last years presidential race, when Kamala Harris picked up 76 percent of the vote to Donald Trumps 24 percent, an outcome at odds with the national picture.

All nine of Cincinnati City Councils current members are likewise Democrats.

Bowman, however, believes he can buck the trend and offer something different because people deserve a choice.

A pastor at the evangelical River Church in the citys West End, Bowman also owns the Kings Arms Coffee Shop in its College Hill neighborhood.

He has never previously held public office but has said he was inspired by attending Trump and Vances inauguration ceremony at the U.S. Capitol in January.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As I was flying back here from the inauguration, it occurred to me that I could do something to serve the community, he has said.

Bowman shares a father with Vance, although they have different mothers.

The future VP reportedly spent time on the Bowman farm in Preble County during his youth, and the younger brother describes their relationship as a friendly sibling rivalry.

Vance himself has not campaigned on his relatives behalf but did send a message of support on X this week, describing Bowman as a good guy with a heart for serving his community... Get out there and vote for him.

Cincinnati mayoral candidate and River Church pastor Cory Bowman, who is Vice President JD Vance's half brother, preaches during Easter worship on Sunday April 20 in Cincinnati, Ohio (AP)

Reacting to his showing in Tuesdays primary, Bowman said: What I will say is that it looks like [Pureval] had a good head start, but were kind of catching up a little bit... So once I see the numbers there, Ill know what our mission, our focus needs to be going into November.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pureval responded to his commanding win by thanking his supporters and saying the city remains on the right path.

Based on the early returns, Im incredibly grateful for the citizens of Cincinnati giving us an opportunity, he said.

Hopefully, it makes a positive statement. Im not sure I can read anything into it other than the people think the city is on the right path.

However, he also warned against complacency among citizens, noting the worrying low turnout, which saw just 10 percent of eligible voters turn up to cast their ballots.

Given the chaos and uncertainty from the federal government, now is the time for voters to be engaged and exercising their voice, the mayor said.

That is also on me. Ive got to do a better job of making government relevant to people and making sure they see themselves in their local government.
TOKYO - Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako will visit Okinawa next month to pay their respects to the war dead ahead of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, with their only daughter Princess Aiko set to accompany them on her first trip to the prefecture, the Imperial Household Agency said Wednesday.

After arriving in Okinawa from Tokyo's Haneda airport on June 4, the imperial family will lay flowers at the national cemetery for the war dead in Itoman and visit the "Cornerstone of Peace" cenotaph, according to the agency. They also plan to speak with survivors at the Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum.

The following day, they will lay flowers at a memorial in Naha for the Tsushima Maru incident, in which about 1,500 people, including hundreds of schoolchildren, were killed in the August 1944 sinking of a Japanese ship in a U.S. submarine torpedo attack.

They will then visit the memorial museum nearby and meet with survivors and bereaved families. While then-Emperor Akihito and then-Empress Michiko visited the memorial in 2014, it marks the first visit by the current emperor and his wife.

Okinawa fell into U.S. hands in the closing months of World War II in 1945 through the Battle of Okinawa, which began in March of that year with the landing of U.S. troops on the Kerama Islands near the main island of Okinawa.

Around 200,000 people -- both Japanese and American -- lost their lives in the ensuing ground battle.

Last month, the emperor and empress visited Iwoto Island, formerly known as Iwojima, the site of a fierce battle in the Pacific between Japan and the United States, to mourn the war dead.

The couple is also scheduled to visit the atomic-bombed cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in the coming months as they follow in the footsteps of the trips made by then-Emperor Akihito and then-Empress Michiko to mark the 50th anniversary of the end of the war.

Related coverage:

Japan imperial family YouTube channel awarded for 100,000 subscribers

Japan's emperor conveys condolences over death of Pope Francis

Japan's Prince Hisahito, 2nd in line to throne, enters university
JD Vance denied that a rift had been driven between the United States and Europe despite the vice presidents own repeated broadsides against Americas traditional ally.

The vice president spoke in a moderated discussion with Wolfgang Ischinger, the head of the Munich Security Conference, on Wednesday in Washington, D.C., three months after he made waves at the organizations conference in Germany.

I think it's completely ridiculous to think that you're ever going to be able to drive a firm wedge between the United States and Europe, Vance said. It doesn't mean that Europeans won't criticize the United States, the United States won't criticize Europe, but I do think fundamentally we have to be and we are on the same civilizational team.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The discussion came at a crucial moment for President Donald Trump, as the United States seeks to broker an end to Russias war in Ukraine. So far, the United States has threatened to walk away from peace talks, while Trump has harshly criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Vice President JD Vance spoke to the Munich Security Defense and sought to downplay talks of a rift between the United States and Europe (Getty Images)

What I would say is, right now, the Russians are asking for a certain set of requirements, a certain set of concessions in order to end the conflict, we think they're asking for too much, he said.

Ischinger mentioned Vances speech he made back in February in Munich, where he harshly criticized European immigration policy and accused Europe of retreating from some of its most fundamental values, questioning its commitment to free speech and its election integrity.

Vance further aggravated Europeans when in a Fox News interview, he criticized the idea of a peacekeeping force in Ukraine. He said the best path forward to peace was to give the United States an economic upside in Ukraine, calling it way better security guarantee than 20,000 troops from some random country that hasnt fought a war in 20 or 30 years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

His comments were widely interpreted as referencing Britain and France. Troops from both countries served alongside the U.S. in Afghanistan, and British forces also took part in the war in Iraq. France lost 86 troops in Afghanistan, while Britain lost 454 in Afghanistan and 179 in Iraq. Amid uproar in Europe  which saw British tabloids label him a clown and JD Dunce  Vance said it was absurdly dishonest to say he meant to insult the United Kingdom and France.

During his speech on Wednesday, the vice president stressed the need for the US-European alliance.

I still think that this European Alliance is very important, but I think that for it to be important and for us to be real friends with each other, and I think that we are very much real friends, we've got to talk about the big question, he said.

"I think that it means that all of us, frankly, on both sides of the Atlantic, have gotten a little bit too comfortable with the security posture of the last 20 years, and that, frankly, that security posture is not adequate to meet the challenges of the next 20 years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He also repeated Trumps calls for European countries to contribute more to their own defense.

It's not just spending money, as important as that is. It's making sure that the same economic engine that powered first world living standards is actually geared towards producing, God forbid, weapons of war, if those weapons of war are ever necessary, he said.

I think this is an area where we're fundamentally right, and I think it's gratifying to see so many of our European friends recognize that and recognize that Europe does really have to play a bigger role in continental defense.

He defended Trumps decision to levy across-the-board tariffs against Europe. In the same way that American markets have been open to a lot of European goods, we'd like a lot of European markets to be open to American goods, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Vance said that Trump only enacted his liberation day tariffs that disrupted global markets 30 days ago. So we are in the early innings of a very significant shift, he said. I think that shift is going to really endure to the benefit of both the United States, but also of Europe, but fundamentally it has to happen.

Vance has served as something of Trumps attack dog on the global stage, being one of the presidents point people on trade deals with Europe and the United Kingdom. At the same time, he also clashed with Prime Minister Keir Starmer about Europes free speech laws.
Voters selected which Cincinnati Mayor candidates will advance to the November election.

Cory Bowman, the half-brother of Vice President JD Vance, will face Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval.

Both were the top two vote-getters in Tuesdays May Primary Ohio Election, according to the Associated Press.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Pureval led Bowman by almost 70 percentage points, the Hamilton County Board of Elections website said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Republican Brian Frank finished third.

TRENDING STORIES:

Pureval said on social media the city deserves a substantive and healthy debate of ideas about the future of our city heading into the fall, the AP said.

There is work ahead of us in Cincinnati, but I am incredibly proud of what weve accomplished over the past few years, he said. We have made meaningful, tangible progress for folks across our community, and this is a moment to keep building on the momentum weve worked so hard to create.

It's an honor to make the ballot for this November's general election. There is work ahead of us in Cincinnati, but I am incredibly proud of what we've accomplished over the past few years. pic.twitter.com/V6zbLpabsV  Aftab Pureval (@AftabPureval) May 7, 2025

Bowman said on social media that he is grateful to every Cincinnati voter who cast a ballot for him to advance to Novembers election.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The greatest gift local government can offer its residents is a choice, he said. Thats exactly what voters will have this November. Theres much work ahead, and were ready to show our great city that were the best candidate for the job.

Im deeply grateful to every Cincinnati voter who cast a ballot to advance us to the general election .



The greatest gift local government can offer its residents is a choice. Thats exactly what voters will have this November. Theres much work ahead, and were ready to pic.twitter.com/wqhjaXkrVU  Cory Bowman (@corymbowman) May 7, 2025

The general election is on November 4.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
Vice President JD Vance said Wednesday that Russia was asking for too much in its negotiations to end the war in Ukraine.

During a Q&A at the Munich Leaders Meeting in Washington, Vance lobbed a rare criticism at Moscow over its lengthy list of demands required to end its invasion into Ukraine, when asked whether he thought Russia was serious about ending the conflict.

I wouldnt sayIm not yet that pessimistic on thisI wouldnt say that the Russians are uninterested in bringing this thing to a resolution. What I would say is right now the Russians are asking for a certain set of requirements, a certain set of concessions, in order to end the conflict, Vance said. We think theyre asking for too much.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Russias list of demands have remained largely the same since its full-scale invasion first began in 2022. In April, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that Russia requires full control of five Ukrainian regions: Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, and Crimea. Lavrov also insisted that Ukraine must be demilitarized, banned from entering NATO, and that Kyiv would need to introduce legislation to restore the state of Russian language, culture, and religious institutions.

The vice president claimed Wednesday that the next step for the U.S. was to facilitate a face-to-face meeting between the two warring governments. Its very important for the Russians and Ukrainians to start talking to one another, Vance said.

This comes little over a week after Lavrov said that Russia wanted to lift a ban on Kyivs ability to directly negotiate with Moscow. Yaroslav Trofimov, the chief foreign affairs correspondent at The Wall Street Journal, said that Russia was essentially telling Trump to get lost.

Vance made it clear that in negotiations, the United States was still playing by Russias rules. After Russia refused to agree to a 30-day ceasefire, Vance said that the U.S. was abandoning those hopes as well. Weve tried to move beyond the obsession with the 30-day ceasefire, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During the Q&A, Vance waxed poetic about how important it was to truly understand each side, even if you didnt agree with them, but he also took a moment to whine about all that pesky historical context hed had to endure.

They hate each other so much that if you have an hour conversation with either side, the first 30 minutes are just them complaining about some historical grievance from four years ago, or five years ago, or 10 years ago, Vance said.

Speaking of history, one might flash back to Vances humiliating display in the Oval Office in February, when he lost his temper as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy explained Russias invasion of Crimea.
Russia is asking for too much in peace with Ukraine, JD Vance has said.

The vice-president suggested that Vladimir Putin is pushing for too many concessions as discussions between the two nations have stalled in recent weeks, with the US threatening to take a step back unless progress is made.

I wouldnt say that the Russians are uninterested in bringing this thing to a resolution, Mr Vance told the Munich Leaders Meeting in Washington on Wednesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What I would say is, right now ... we think theyre asking for too much.

Russia-Ukraine peace talks are strained

Donald Trump has softened his stance towards Kyiv in recent days amid his growing frustrations that the Russian president is dragging his feet over attempts to secure a ceasefire.

The Kremlin has expressed a willingness for talks with Kyiv, but last month rejected a US peace proposal because it did not grant international recognition to territory seized by Moscows troops.

Ukraine has repeatedly rejected any formal recognition of Russias annexation of its territory, saying that Putin should not be rewarded for his aggression.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The stalemate reached boiling point last week when the US said it would no longer mediate peace negotiations.

You dont have to agree with the Russian justification for the war, and certainly, both the president and I have criticised the full-scale invasion, but you have to try to understand where the other side is coming from to end the conflict, Mr Vance added.

And I think thats what president Trump has been very deliberate about, is actually forcing the Russians to say, here is what we would like in order to end the conflict.

Last week, the US signed a long-contested rare earth minerals deal with Ukraine, which will give American companies preferential treatment in extracting Ukraines vast natural resources.

Scott Bessent and Yulia Svyrydenko, the Ukrainian vice-prime minister, sign the minerals deal - U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY/via REUTERS

Soon after the deal was signed, the US president approved a fresh delivery of weapons to Ukraine, the first of its kind since Mr Trump took office.

Chinese must consume more

Elsewhere, Scott Bessent, the Treasury secretary, will meet with Chinese officials this weekend in Geneva for the first round of trade talks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The talks will be the first official meeting between Washington and Beijing since Mr Trump took office in January.

We cannot absorb hundreds of billions of dollars, close to a trillion dollars per year and annual surplus, most of it coming from the Peoples Republic of China, Mr Vance said.

We think that the PRC is going to have to, frankly, let their own population consume a little bit more. Theyve held consumption levels down in order to increase these massive exports, he added.

Mr Vance said part of rebalancing Americas trade relationship would include cutting more trade deals with some of our friends in Europe but also with some of our more adversarial nations, and that this would all be done while maintaining at least an open dialogue with the (Peoples Republic of China).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No country has been hit harder by Mr Trumps trade war than China, the worlds biggest exporter and second largest economy.

When Mr Trump announced his liberation day tariffs on April 2, China retaliated with tariffs of its own, a move that the US president viewed as demonstrating a lack of respect.

Donald Trump holds a chart as he announces new tariffs on April 2 - BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP

The tit-for-tat tariffs have been mounting since then, with the US levies against China now at 145 per cent and China tariffs on the US at 125 per cent.

American firms have already begun cancelling orders from China, postponing expansion plans and hunkering down as a result of the tariff war.

Iran peace talks

Ahead of another round of talks this weekend, the vice-president said discussions with Iran to strike a nuclear deal were on the right pathway.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The talks seek to limit Irans nuclear programme in exchange for the lifting of some of the crushing economic sanctions the US has imposed on the Islamic Republic.

If Iran gets a nuclear weapon, which country then next gets a nuclear weapon, and then when that country gets a nuclear weapon, which country after that? We really care not just about Iran, but about nuclear proliferation, he added.

We really think that if the Iran domino falls, youre going to see nuclear proliferation all over the Middle East.

Mr Trump has repeatedly threatened to unleash airstrikes targeting Irans programme if a deal is not reached.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Iranian officials increasingly warn that they could pursue a nuclear weapon with their stockpile of uranium enriched to near weapons-grade levels.

Americas relationship with the EU

Meanwhile, Mr Vance appeared to soften his tone towards Europe, which he previously lambasted for curtailing free speech during a firebrand speech at the Munich conference in February.

Mr Vance insisted that the United States and Europe are on the same team, adding: I think its completely ridiculous to think that youre ever going to be able to drive a firm wedge between the United States and Europe.

You brought up the speech earlier, it doesnt mean that Europeans wont criticise the United States and the United States wont criticise Europe, but I do think fundamentally we have to be and we are on the same civilisational team.

JD Vance greets Giorgia Meloni, the Italian prime minister, on a visit to Rome on April 18 - Antonio Masiello/Getty Images Europe

However, Mr Vance did express some frustration with Europe over its deindustrialisation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When I looked at Germany 10, 15, 20 years ago, one of the things that the Germans were very good about is that they had kept the industrial strength of their economy consistent with the first world standard of living, he said.

But now what we see in Europe is a lot of our European friends are de-industrialising at the very moment where were all seeing the economic underpinning, of real hard power.

To be a strong country requires very strong and powerful industry, Mr Vance said.

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.
Democratic incumbent Supreme Court Justice Allison Riggs and her Republican challenger, Judge Jefferson Griffin. (Courtesy photos)

The nations last unsettled race from the 2024 General Election has been decided. Republican North Carolina Supreme Court candidate Jefferson Griffin has conceded to incumbent Democratic Justice Allison Riggs.

The Associated Press reported that Griffin, a judge on the state Court of Appeals, provided a statement Wednesday morning indicating that he has decided not to appeal the ruling of U.S. District Court Judge Richard Myers II that Riggs must be certified as the winner. While I do not fully agree with the District Courts analysis, I respect the courts holding  just as I have respected every judicial tribunal that has heard this case, Griffin said. I will not appeal the courts decision.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Riggs defeated Griffin by the razor-thin margin of 734 votes out or more than 5 million cast  a figure that was confirmed in two recounts, but Griffin challenged the result in a series of administrative and judicial proceedings.

Supreme Court Justice Allison Riggs speaks at an NC Democratic Party rally on Jan. 5, 2025. (Photo: Lynn Bonner)

On Monday, Myers issued a 68-page ruling directing the state Board of Elections to certify Riggs as the winner and rejecting Griffins effort to have thousands of ballots thrown out as violative of the U.S. Constitution, writing:

[T]his case concerns whether the federal Constitution permits a state to alter the rules of an election after the fact and apply those changes retroactively to only a select group of voters, and in so doing treat those voters differently than other similarly situated individuals. This case is also about whether a state may redefine its class of eligible voters but offer no process to those who may have been misclassified as ineligible.

To this court, the answer to each of those questions is no.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Riggs issued the following statement in response to the concession:

After millions of dollars spent, more than 68,000 voters at risk of losing their votes, thousands of volunteers mobilized, hundreds of legal documents filed, and immeasurable damage done to our democracy, Im glad the will of the voters was finally heard, six months and two days after Election Day. Its been my honor to lead this fight  even though it should never have happened  and Im in awe of the North Carolinians whose courage reminds us all that we can use our voices to hold accountable any politician who seeks to take power out of the hands of the people.

The State Board of Elections was meeting Wednesday morning. Final certification of the election result will take place automatically at the end of the seven-day stay that Myers, a Trump appointee, attached to his ruling in order to provide Griffin with an opportunity to appeal.

Lynn Bonner contributed to this report.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
JEFFERSON  A village man arrested in a 1977 cold case murder in California waived his right to an extradition hearing Tuesday afternoon before Eastern County Court Judge Harold Specht, Ashtabula County Prosecutor April Grabman said.

Willie Eugene Sims, 69, is accused of strangling Jeanette Ralston Feb. 1 1977, in San Jose, according to a press release from the Ashtabula County Sheriffs Office and Grabman. He was arrested Tuesday morning.

His arrest was a result of successful and continuing collaboration between the San Jose Police Department Homicide Unit, the Santa Clara County District Attorneys Cold Case Unit, the Ashtabula County Sheriffs Office, and the Ashtabula County Prosecutors Office, the release states.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We are extremely thankful and proud to be part of the law enforcement partners that worked together across state lines to seek justice for Ms. Ralston and her family, Grabman and Ashtabula County Sheriff William Niemi said in a joint statement.

The press release states Sims met Ralston in a bar, and alleges he strangled her with a shirt.

Ralston, 24 at the time, was found dead in the back seat of her Volkswagen in a carport of a nearby apartment complex, the release states.

The medical examiner concluded the cause of death was strangulation from a shirt tied around her neck. The autopsy also showed evidence of sexual assault. The killer tried to light her her car on fire, but was unsuccessful, the release states.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No suspects were identified at the time, and the case went cold until a fingerprint found on one of Ralstons cigarette packs was found to match Sims in August 2024, according to the release.

Earlier this year, the sheriffs department and prosecutors office assisted California authorities in getting a DNA sample from Sims, the release states.

The Santa Clara County District Attorneys Crime Lab found DNA consistent with Sims on Ralstons fingernails and the shirt used to strangle her, the release states.

If convicted, Sims faces 25-years-to-life in prison, the release states.
This is an adapted excerpt from the May 6 episode of The Briefing with Jen Psaki.

Donald Trump and his allies love to lecture Americans about what it means to be patriotic. But its become pretty clear by now that their brand of patriotism is based primarily on performative things.

Just consider what theyve been focused on over the past few weeks. In the House, Republicans advanced a bill to officially rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. Its an accomplishment that Republican Speaker Mike Johnson even took a moment to tout on social media  probably more pressing matters that the House could tackle, but sure.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Over at the White House, Trump has been busy redecorating, putting his personal touch on pretty much everything. Hes scouting the North Lawn and the South Lawn for a place to put two new flagpoles that he says will be nearly 100 feet tall. Trump told reporters that he was installing them because theyve needed flagpoles for 200 years.

Of course, we also know that the Trump administration is planning a military parade in Washington, D.C., for June 14, Flag Day. It's also the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, and it happens to be Trumps birthday.

Now, you might remember that Trump tried to hold a military parade during his first term, but those plans were curtailed over the cost and concern that military vehicles, like tanks, would damage the streets of D.C. Apparently, those are not considered problems this time around. According to defense officials familiar with the planning who spoke to NBC News, an early estimate puts the cost of Trumps parade at as much as $45 million.

Its a lot of pageantry: Look at our newly labeled maps, our new giant flagpole, the tanks rolling down the streets. But what about the kind of patriotism that goes beyond the public displays? The kind of patriotism that demonstrates actual solidarity with your fellow Americans? Well, when you look for that kind of patriotism, Trump and the Republican leadership are woefully lacking. There are a lot of examples to highlight here: Trumps dramatic cuts to things such as public health, disaster relief and food banks, but theres one area I want to focus on: the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to photographs obtained by The New York Times, since Trump overturned remote work arrangements for federal employees, VA mental health physicians have been forced to use cramped office spaces to provide teletherapy. The situation has led to a dramatic lack of privacy for veterans seeking mental health care, which clinicians have said limits the effectiveness of treatment. Those conditions are also reportedly pushing some providers to quit or retire early, at a moment when the agency is already facing severe shortages of psychologists and psychiatrists, according to an agency report.

This isnt even mentioning the effect of Trumps budget cuts to the VA. According to internal VA emails obtained by ProPublica, the cuts are jeopardizing veterans care, including lifesaving cancer trials. That damage to lifesaving care is coming before the Trump administration has gone through with its plan to eliminate at least 70,000 of the 500,000 employees who work at the agency, most of whom work in VA hospitals or clinics.

If you want to be patriotic, how about less focus on maps, flagpoles and parades, and more on providing quality care for the people who actually served this country? Despite what Trump and the MAGA world think, patriotism isnt about simple displays.

Right now, Democrats have an opportunity to push for a deeper definition of patriotism. Some Democrats are already seizing on that opportunity, such as Maryland Gov. Wes Moore.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During his commencement address at Lincoln University on Sunday, Moore pitched his own vision for how Democrats can reclaim patriotism from the Republican Party: Our country is just deeply divided right now into two camps, but its not left versus right, its not red versus blue. Its a divide between those who use patriotism as a club to beat others and those who feel ashamed to bear the flag, between those who think loving America means hating half the people in it and those who allow cynicism about our nations history to obscure their aspirations.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  Potential Development School for Students with Autism is hosting a job fair and open house on Wednesday.

Read next: Election results

Its from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at its elementary and middle school on Market Street in Youngstown.

Theyre hiring intervention specialists, bilingual teachers, and teacher assistants, as well as speech language pathologists.

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.
Originally appeared on E! Online

President Joe Biden has no regrets.

In his first interview since exiting the White House in January, the 82-year-old addressed the timing of his exit from the 2024 presidential race, which saw Vice President Kamala Harris step in to run against President Donald Trump.

Looking back, Biden, who exited the race last July, doesnt think passing the baton any earlier would have made a difference in the outcome, which saw Trump ultimately defeat Harris.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I dont think it would have mattered, he said during an interview with the BBC shared May 7. We left at a time when we had a good candidate, she was fully funded. And what happened was, what we had set out to dono one thought we could do it. And wed become so successful, with our agenda it was hard to say, now Im going to stop now.

Biden continued, I meant what I said when I started, that Im prepared to hand this to the next generation, the transition government. But things moved so quickly, that it made it difficult to walk away. And it was a hard decision.

However hard, though, the politician doesnt regret his decision to drop out of the race. "I think it was the right decision, he said. I think thatwell it was just a difficult decision.

The 46th Presidents comments about dropping out of the race come almost a year after he announced his exit, with Harris to ultimately stepping in take his place with running mate Tim Walz.

More from E! Online

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However hard, though, the politician doesnt regret his decision to drop out of the race. "I think it was the right decision, he said. I think thatwell it was just a difficult decision.

The 46th Presidents comments about dropping out of the race come almost a year after he announced his exit, with Harris to ultimately stepping in take his place with running mate Tim Walz.

SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images

"It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President," Biden said in a statement shared to social media in July. "And while it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term."

In a follow-up message, the Democrat urged his party to choose Harris as his replacement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term, he shared. "My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And its been the best decision Ive made."

Cameron Smith

But despite losing to Trump and running mate JD Vance, Harris expressed her hopes for the future.

"My heart is full today, full of gratitude for the trust you have placed in me, full of love for our country, and full of resolve," Harris said in her November concession speech. "The outcome of this election is not what we wanted, not what we fought for, not what we voted for, but hear me when I say, the light of America's promise will always burn bright as long as we never give up and as long as we keep fighting."

And while the 60-year-old has kept a low profile in the months since Trumps inauguration, Harris has begun stepping back into the spotlight. This includes a surprise appearance at the Met Gala May 5 with husband Doug Emhoff to celebrate the Superfine: Tailoring Black Style theme.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To see more of the celebrities at the event, keep reading.

Cardi B

The rapper debuted a new hair style and eye color while walking the red carpet in a jaw-dropping green Burberry get-up.





Kendall Jenner

Keeping up with the 818 Tequila founder's style is a near impossible feat. The 29-year-old turned heads yet again at the annual fashion event in a cleavage-bearing Torisheju skirt suit.





Kim Kardashian

The SKIMS founder made head-to-toe leather look chic as ever with her Chrome Hearts ensemble for the event.





Zendaya

The Euphoria stars knows chic sometimes means simple, opting to wear a perfectly fitted all-white pant suit designed by Louis Vuitton and oversized white hat.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement





Colman Domingo

The Sing-Sing actor turned heads not one but twice on the Met steps this year. For his first look, the co-chair made jaws drop in a floor-length bedazzled cobalt blue cape by Valentino.





Colman Domingo

And for his second show-stopping look, the Oscar nominee played with mixing patterns in a gray-and-white suit, also by Valentino.





Jaden Smith

The Karate Kid star knows how to get people talking, and this year's Met Gala was no different. The 26-year-old had everyone doing double takes with his plaid cape and all-black suit combo.





Pamela Anderson

The Baywatch alum debuted a gorgeous bob to go with her sparkly long-sleeved gown designed by Tory Burch.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement





LaKeith Stanfield

The Get Out actor was a vision in black and white with his floor-length white suit coat and matching top hat.





Suki Waterhouse

The singer showed off her style moves at the annual fashion event, rocking a matching suit vest and maxi skirt ensemble with super-high coordinating pumps.





Janelle Monae

The multi-faceted artist went totally Met-a at this year's gala, wearing a jacket with a suit printed on it, as well as another suit underneath.





Madonna

We're still hung up on the "Material Girl" singer's all-white satin Tom Ford suit. Not to mention, her cigar accessory was a perfect touch.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement





Emma Chamberlain

The Chamberlain Coffee founder rocked her riskiest look yet, donning a custom Courreges gown made out of pinstripe suit material, vintage glasses from eBay and Stuart Weitzman heels.





Bad Bunny

The "DAKITI" artist carried his Met Gala lookliterallyby pairing his custom Prada suit with an oversized leather duffle bag.





Sabrina Carpenter

This singer has taste. The 25-year-old looked stunning on the red carpet in a burgundy pantsless look made custom by Louis Vuitton.





Teyana Taylor

The "Gonna Love Me" singer had everyone buzzing with her custom Ruth E. Carter ensemble that featured pinstripe suit pants and a gorgeous velvet cape with epic shoulder pads.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement





Gigi Hadid

The supermodel made the whole place shimmer in a custom liquid gold Miu Miu gown.





Jennie Kim

The Blackpink singer took the "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" theme to heart, wearing fitted black suit pants and a matching off-the-shoulder top with a massive train.





Diana Ross

She's coming out! No one could miss the "Upside Down" singer's show-stopping entrance at this year's gala, as the train of her custom look co-designed by Ross, her son Evan Ross and designer Ugo Mozie covered the entire Metropolitan Museum of Art steps.





Pusha T

The rapper looked dapper in a deep red Louis Vuitton suit featuring silver glitter detailing on the shoulders.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement





Maya Hawke

There's nothing strange about the actress arriving dressed to impress at the annual gala, where she wore a custom Prada strapless gown with a sheer beige cape over top.





Coco Jones

The Grammy winner brought the glitz and the glam in a cream-colored Manish Malhotra ensemble and Jimmy Choo shoes.





Lewis Hamilton

As a co-chair for the event, the F1 driver certainly felt the pressure to step out in styleand he delivered in a custom off-white Wales Bonner suit.



For the latest breaking news updates, click here to download the E! News App
WASHINGTON - The United States and China will hold talks this weekend in Switzerland to de-escalate trade tensions, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Tuesday, in the first known high-level in-person contact between representatives of the world's two largest economies since President Donald Trump unleashed hefty tariffs on imports.

"My sense is that this will be about de-escalation, not about the big trade deal," Bessent told Fox News, referring to his upcoming meeting with China due to take place on Saturday and Sunday. "We've got to de-escalate before we can move forward."

Bessent, who will participate in the meeting, said the United States plans to agree with China on "what we're going to talk about" in the future.

He added the United States does not want to decouple from China over "textiles and things like that" but wants to do so over "strategic industries" such as semiconductors, pharmaceuticals and steel.

China's Commerce Ministry said Vice Premier He Lifeng, who oversees economic matters, will meet with Bessent during his trip to Switzerland from Friday to Monday.

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative said its chief, Jamieson Greer, will visit Geneva later this week to meet with his Chinese counterpart to discuss trade issues, with the negotiations coming as the United States and China continue a tit-for-tat trade war.

Last month, Trump said U.S. tariff rates on Chinese imports will ultimately "come down substantially," not staying around the 145 percent minimum level to which he raised them after returning to the White House in January.

Trump has put a 90-day pause on the implementation of his country-specific so-called reciprocal tariffs for dozens of trading partners, excluding those targeting Chinese imports, until early July.

In response to the Trump administration's new protectionist measures, China has raised its retaliatory duties on all U.S. goods to 125 percent.

The Chinese ministry said it has decided to engage with the United States, given that the Trump administration has voiced willingness to do so, and after "fully considering global expectations, Chinese interests and calls from U.S. businesses and consumers."

But the ministry warned China's position of defending its own development interests, international fairness and the global trade order has been consistent.

"If we fight, we will fight to the end," it said. "If we talk, the door is open."

Trump has repeatedly claimed he has a good relationship with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, voicing confidence that he can strike a deal with him.

Trump had also said multiple times that the two countries were holding tariff negotiations, which Chinese officials denied.

Earlier in the day, Bessent said the Trump administration had not yet engaged in trade talks with China.

Bessent said the United States has 18 very important trading relationships and the Trump administration has been negotiating with 17 of these partners, excluding China.

He said the United States could announce deals with some of its largest trading partners as early as this week, without naming any specific countries.

"Many of our trading partners have approached us with very good offers," said Bessent, who has been playing a central role in the ongoing tariff negotiations, in testimony before a House of Representatives committee.

He suggested last week that among the trading partners, India would be the first to reach a deal with the United States. He also said other Asian countries, including Japan and South Korea, have been the "most forthcoming" in terms of pursuing trade deals with the Trump administration.

On Tuesday, while noting that up to around 98 percent of the U.S. trade deficit is with about 15 countries, he said, "I would be surprised if we don't have more than 80 or 90 percent of those wrapped up by the end of the year, and that may be much sooner."

"I would think that perhaps as early as this week, we will be announcing trade deals with some of our largest trading partners," he told the chamber's appropriations committee.

Related coverage:

U.S. agriculture secretary to visit Japan as part of tariff talks

U.S. rejects Japan's exemption from "reciprocal" tariffs

Trump's 25% auto part tariff takes effect, in latest blow to Japan
Former President Joe Biden said in a new interview that the timing of his pullout from the 2024 election wouldnt have made a difference, suggesting that Kamala Harris loss to Donald Trump was inevitable. (Watch the video below.)

Should you have withdrawn earlier? the BBCs Nick Robinson asked in the interview, shared Wednesday.

I dont think it wouldve mattered, Biden replied. We left at a time when we had a good candidate. She was fully funded.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The former president said he and his administration were so successful in our agenda that it became hard for him to say, Im gonna stop now.

I meant what I said when I started, he continued. Im preparing to hand this to the next generation. Its a transition government. But things moved so quickly that it made it difficult to walk away.

Biden said it was the right decision and a difficult decision.

Biden, who was dogged by concerns over his mental acuity in the campaign, dropped out of the race in July after a bumbling debate against Trump. He immediately endorsed Harris as the nominee. Trump grabbed critical swing states to oust the Democrats from the White House.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Robinson gave the former president another go at addressing the timing of his move.

I dont know how that would have made much difference, Biden said.

"Did you leave it too late? Should you have withdrawn earlier?"

@BBCNickRobinson asks President Biden who says his decision to drop out of the election was 'difficult' but quitting sooner would not have 'made much difference'.

#R4Today  BBC Radio 4 Today (@BBCr4today) May 7, 2025

Related...
A measure to vacate a strip of land at Royal Heights Elementary School received first-round approval by the Joplin City Council at its meeting Monday night.

The citys planning and development director, Todd Bolander, told the council the school district had requested the city vacate a narrow strip of property 13 feet wide and 311 feet long. It has been used as a zone for parents to pick up and drop off children.

The school district requested the change for safety concerns and to build a loading dock.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The citys Planning and Zoning Commission heard the request and recommended approval.

Dave Pettit, director of facilities for the school district, testified that officials had decided to quit using that area to drop off and pick up children and intends to provide a safer area for that purpose on school property. It also would increase safety on the schools playground, Pettit said. The school had allowed delivery trucks to drive across the school playground when it is vacant to deliver food and other supplies. But the school district recently spent money to repair and update the playground and will reroute deliveries, Pettit told the council.

Council members approved the motion with six in favor and three council members  Chuck Copple, Ryan Jackson and Mayor Keenan Cortez  absent.

The council also advanced on first reading a request to rezone property at 410 W. 26th St. from residential to neighborhood commercial. Owner Darren Collins requested the change so the vacant lot matches the zoning of an adjacent property where a beauty salon owned by his wife is located.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Stormwater work

A contract for wastewater system work that was advanced on first reading is part of the citys effort to address sanitary sewer overflows and bypasses along with a continued effort to reduce the inflow and infiltration of rainwater into the sewer system, which burdens the system during heavy rains with excess water and heavy metals to process. That work is required under an abatement order and consent decree the city entered in 2019 with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

The contract would include work to reduce the inflow and infiltration of stormwater and will involve pipe lining, smoke testing and repairs to sewer mains, laterals and manholes in the system.

Four contractors submitted bids for the work, and the lowest bid was submitted by Ace Pipe Cleaning Inc.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dan Johnson, the public works director, said that although the bid with Ace Co. is for more than $2.3 million, the work would be done in segments and he would start with a purchase order for $750,000. That would involve installing cured-in-place pipe and lateral repairs in the Broadway sewer basin, smoke testing in the College Skyline basin, and video inspections of sewer lines near Range Line Road, Interstate 44 and downstream of Silver Creek.

Council member Doris Carlin asked how long the bid will be good. Johnson said its hard to keep it going for more than one year. He plans to budget $1.5 million for a year with an option to contract further repairs or video inspections as needed.

Property sales

Several sales of excess property and contracts for the sales were approved:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 1215 Hill St. to Terry Wright for $2,100. The property is currently zoned multifamily residential and contains approximately 3,150 square feet of land.

 129 N. Maple St. to Lauren White for $3,906. The property is zoned single-family residential and contains approximately 6,200 square feet of land.

 831 S. Ozark St. to Lauren White for $3,780. The property is zoned single-family residential and contains approximately 6,000 square feet of land.

Council members also approved a motion to advance to final readings a contract with Ravenii, the citys cybersecurity firm, for data and information technology safety services. The city received five bids for the work, but Ravenii was the lowest and was providing service at the same price as it has the last three years, said Mark Morris, the citys department head for information technology.
A federal judge is blocking Donald Trumps administration from deporting a group of Laotian, Vietnamese and Filipino immigrants to Libya after lawyers cited alarming reports that the flights to the war-torn African nation were imminent.

Massachusetts District Judge Brian E. Murphy granted a temporary restraining order on Wednesday that temporarily blocks the government from so-called third-country removals until targeted immigrants have a meaningful chance to challenge the action in court.

An emergency filing from attorneys for the immigrants warned that the government would be blatantly defying a court order that prohibits those removals, which lawyers feared were being prepared on U.S. military flights scheduled as early as Wednesday.

Donald Trump told reporters on Wednesday that he didnt know whether deportation flights to war-torn Libya were imminent as lawyers scrambled to block their removal (EPA)

Judge Murphy said the government would clearly violate his court order if those flights took off, delivering a stiff warning to administration officials after several federal judges have sparred with government attorneys about similar orders against swift removals that appeared to defy court orders against them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He cited his court order from April 18, which requires third-country removals to have a written notice in a language that the targeted immigrants can understand, as well as a meaningful opportunity for the non-citizen to raise a fear-based claim for protection from removal.

If there is any doubt  the Court sees none  the allegedly imminent removals, as reported by news agencies and as Plaintiffs seek to corroborate with class-member accounts and public information, would clearly violate this Courts Order, Murphy wrote.

Asked on Wednesday whether he is aware that federal immigration authorities are preparing deportation flights to Libya, the president said: I don't know. You'll have to ask Homeland Security.

The filings follow a frantic 24 hours during which lawyers scrambled to reach their clients and the courts after Reuters and The New York Times reported the administrations plans to send immigrants to Libya, which Libyas rival governments said they would flatly reject.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The State Department even advises Americans against traveling to Libya due to crime, terrorism, unexploded land mines, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict.

Alleged plans to send immigrants to the war-torn African nation would mark a significant escalation in the Trump administrations mass deportation operation; (AFP via Getty Images)

The country remains divided following years of unrest and instability in the wake of a coup against longtime dictator Muammar Gaddafis regime. The United Nations recognizes a government from Tripoli, while eastern Libya is governed by general-turned-warlord Khalifa Haftar.

Libya refuses to be a destination for the deportation of migrants under any pretext, Tripoli-based prime minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh wrote on social media Wednesday.

The removal of immigrants from the United States to Libya would mark a significant escalation of the Trump administrations aggressive anti-immigration platform, which already has sent several planes to Latin American countries, including El Salvador, where dozens of deportees are imprisoned in a notorious jail condemned by human rights groups as a tropical gulag and concentration camp.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Libya is also notoriously perilous for refugees and migrants, who often suffer a litany of abuses, including at the countrys numerous detention facilities, according to the Global Detention Project.

Conditions at such facilities, often under the control of militia groups, are deplorable, and detainees routinely experience overcrowding, torture, food and water shortages and forced labor, according to the group. Amnesty International has labeled immigrant detention in Libya a hellscape.
Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown (D) in 2023. (File photo by Bryan P. Sears/Maryland Matters)

A U.S. District Court judge in New York on Tuesday temporarily blocked the Trump administrations plan to cancel more than $1 billion of previously approved pandemic-era relief funding to schools across the country.

The preliminary injunction issued by District Judge Edgardo Ramos prevents the U.S. Department of Education and its secretary, Linda McMahon, from recovering money during the pendency of this litigation or until further order of the Court.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Maryland had joined 15 states and the District of Columbia in the suit against the department and McMahon last month. The suit, filed April 10, followed a letter from McMahon that arrived in email inboxes at 5 p.m. on Friday, March 28, advising state sch0ol officials that any unspent COVID-19 federal recovery funds were being reclaimed immediately.

Most of the money in Maryland comes from the American Rescue Plans Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief, or ARP ESSER, program. McMahon wrote that it didnt make sense for the federal goverment to be awarding COVID-19 grants years after the COVID pandemic ended.

Maryland officials initially estimated that as much as $418 million could be at stake, the most of any state in the lawsuit. School officials announced last week, before the state Board of Education meeting, that the number is actuallly closer to $232.1 million, but the injunction was still welcome.

COVID-19 may be over, but its impact is still being felt in schools across our State and nation, as reading and math scores remain lower than pre-pandemic levels and students continue to struggle with behavioral health issues since schools reopened, Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown (D) said in a statement Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This ruling preserves hundreds of millions of dollars for Maryland schools, allowing our educational leaders to continue giving their students the support they need and deserve, Brown said.

A U.S. Department of Education spokesperson did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment Tuesday night.

The money is being used for various educational programs and school construction projects, ranging from tutoring and reading materials to the installation of heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.

The lawsuit highlighted several affected projects, such as Baltimore City Public Schools cancellation of tutoring and after-school programs. The school system hasnt been reimbursed $48 million.

Besides D.C. and Maryland, others in the suit were Arizona, California, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Nevada, Oregon and Pennsylvania.
President Donald Trump signed an executive order March 14, 2025, imposing dramatic cuts on seven federal agencies, including the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Photo by Catherine McQueen | Getty Images

A federal judge in Rhode Island issued a preliminary injunction Tuesday, blocking a Trump administration executive order from effectively closing three federal agencies that support museums and libraries, promote labor peace and assist minority-owned businesses.

The agencies involved are the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS), the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) and the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). They were among the agencies that President Donald Trump listed in a March 14 executive order to be effectively shut down.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The order violates the federal Administrative Procedures Act in the arbitrary and capricious way it was carried out, wrote Judge John J. McConnell of the U.S. District Court for Rhode Island.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

It also disregards the fundamental constitutional role of each of the branches of our federal government; specifically, it ignores the unshakable principles that Congress makes the law and appropriates funds, and the Executive implements the law Congress enacted and spends the funds Congress appropriated, McConnell wrote.

The lawsuit against the order was brought by 21 states, including Arizona, with attorneys general in Rhode Island, Hawaii and New York leading the litigation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Todays preliminary injunction is a critical win for the public interest, said Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha in a statement. When the Trump Administration attempts to dismantle these agencies, it is making a targeted, concerted effort to prohibit everyday people from accessing their full potential.

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes said the court victory is crucial for communities across the Grand Canyon State.

This is yet another example of the Trump administration trying to tear down vital federal institutions, she said in a written statement. In Arizona and across the country, rural libraries depend on this funding to serve their communities  whether its access to broadband, childrens reading programs, or job search assistance.

Trumps order named seven agencies  including the three involved in Tuesdays court ruling  and directed them to eliminate their non-statutory components and functions . . . to the maximum extent consistent with applicable law. It also directed them to reduce the performance of their statutory function and associated personnel to the minimum presence and function required by law.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

McConnell wrote that the day after issuing the order, Trump signed a continuing appropriations bill in which Congress funded IMLS, MBDA, and FMCS through Sept. 30, 2025 at the same level it funded these agencies in fiscal year 2024.

Despite that, in the aftermath of the order, the three agencies are rescinding or deferring appropriated funds and do not plan to spend them, McConnell wrote.

The FMCS provides mediation in labor negotiations between employers and unions and was established under the 1947 Taft-Hartley Act. The IMLS, established in the 1990s, provides grants to museums and libraries while also providing research and policy analysis for museums, libraries and information services.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
By Tom Hals

(Reuters) - A federal judge instructed the Trump administration on Wednesday to detail the legal precedent for its plan to deport Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist whose presence in the country the government alleges could harm U.S. foreign policy interests.

District Court Judge Michael Farbiarz in Newark, New Jersey, ordered the administration to supply a catalog of every case in which U.S. officials have employed the law being used against Khalil, a Columbia University graduate student.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The judge asked to know specifics behind U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's determination of the risks posed by Khalil's presence in the U.S. He gave the government until 9:30 a.m. ET (1330 GMT) on Thursday to respond.

The Department of Justice did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Khalil was arrested in March at his apartment building in New York City in the presence of his wife, a U.S. citizen. Khalil became a permanent U.S. resident last year and has been detained without charges since his arrest.

The administration is seeking to deport Khalil under a section of immigration law that allows for the deportation of "an alien whose presence or activities in the United States the Secretary of State has reasonable ground to believe would have potentially serious adverse foreign policy consequences."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump administration officials have said student visa and green card holders are subject to deportation over their support for Palestinians and criticism of Israel's conduct in the war in Gaza, calling their actions a threat to U.S. foreign policy.

The administration suffered a setback last month when a federal judge in Vermont ordered another Columbia University student, Mohsen Mahdawi, released on bail.

In April, an immigration judge in Louisiana ruled that the government could deport Khalil solely on the basis of an undated two-page memorandum by Rubio determining that Khalil's presence could have adverse impacts on U.S. foreign policy interests.

Rubio wrote that Khalil should be removed for his role in "antisemitic protests and disruptive activities, which fosters a hostile environment for Jewish students in the United States."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Khalil's attorneys have countered that events and their impact on New York City are not within the scope of U.S. foreign policy. They submitted to the immigration court interviews of Khalil by CNN and other news outlets in which he denounces antisemitism.

Farbiarz has blocked Khalil's removal while considering the student's claim his arrest violated the U.S. Constitution's freedom of speech protections.

Legal experts have said there is little precedent for using the law in the way it has been used against Khalil. It appeared to have been tested just once in the courts after it was used in 1995 to detain Mario Ruiz Massieu, a former assistant attorney general of Mexico.

Massieu challenged his detention in a case that was overseen by the late federal Judge Maryanne Trump Barry, President Donald Trump's older sister. She found the law unconstitutional, but her ruling was reversed on appeal on a technicality.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Khalil was born in a Palestinian refugee camp in Syria, holds Algerian citizenship and became a lawful permanent U.S. resident last year.

(Reporting by Tom Hals in Wilmington, Delaware; Additional reporting by Luc Cohen and Jonathan Allen in New York; Editing by Howard Goller)
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT)  Hours after the city of Birmingham filed a lawsuit against Gov. Kay Ivey to stop a bill changing the makeup of the citys water works board from becoming law, a federal judge has set a date in court to discuss it.

On Tuesday, Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin announced that the city had filed a lawsuit against Alabama to stop SB330, which would largely take the city out of controlling the BWWB, from becoming law. The bill awaits Gov. Kay Iveys signature to become law after being approved in the Alabama Legislature last week.

In a subsequent order, U.S. District Judge Emily Marks both denied the motion, but also set a hearing May 15 for the city to make its case regarding an injunction.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After carefully reviewing the Plaintiffs verified complaint and motion, the Court finds that entry of a temporary restraining order without first affording Governor Ivey an opportunity to be heard would be inappropriate, Marks wrote.

During a press conference Tuesday, Woodfin said the bill was political overreach and unconstitutional.

This bill does not take politics out of the water works, it actually inserts more into the water works, Woodfin 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 CBS 42.
Yale School of Management

A federal judge has denied a Yale Executive MBA students request to return to campus and graduate with his cohort, siding with Yale School of Management after it suspended the student for allegedly using generative AI to complete a final exam.

Thierry Rignol, a French national and entrepreneur based in Texas, also lost the right to sue anonymously and has since been named publicly.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rignol filed a federal lawsuit in February accusing Yale of discrimination, due process violations, and other complaints after the alleged cheating incident in spring 2024. He sought an injunction that would allow him to graduate with his EMBA classmates in 2025 despite a one-year suspension and a failing grade in the course.

A FAILURE TO MAKE HIS CASE

District Judge Sarah Russell denied his motion on Monday (May 5), finding that Rignol failed to make his case.

Rignol has not carried his burden of establishing that a break in studies until the start of the next academic year (in fall 2025) and continuing to have an F on his transcript will cause him irreparable harm, the judge wrote.

Rignol, who founded a hospitality and real estate firm in Mexico, enrolled in SOMs 22-month Executive MBA program in July 2023 and was expecting to graduate this May.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, in May 2024, he submitted a 30-page final exam for the Sourcing and Managing Funds course, one of the longest submissions in the class. Most were closer to 20 pages. A teaching assistant flagged it as potentially AI-generated. The course was set for open book but closed internet, so no use of AI tools, according to the course syllabus.

YALE: STUDENT IGNORED REQUESTS TO PROVIDE ORIGINAL DOCS

Faculty initially used ChatGPTZero to assess the work and found similarities between Rignols answers and responses generated by ChatGPT. They referred the case to the schools Honor Committee.

Things spiraled from there.

Rignol claims that he was pressured by Yale administrators to falsely confess to AI use, with one dean allegedly suggesting he could face deportation. He also alleges that the Honor Committee proceeded with hearings without giving him access to key evidence, among other charges. His lawsuit claims that Yales own policies prohibit using tools like GPTZero due to their high false-positive rates, particularly for non-native English speakers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Yale contends that Rignol ignored requests to submit the original Word or Pages document used to produce the exam PDF. He later said he had used Apple Pages but allegedly did not submit the original file until the day of his Honor Committee hearing in November, months after repeated requests. He also declined a follow-up meeting in which the committee asked him to bring his laptop for later that day. The committee did not initially rule on whether Rignol used AI. Instead, it sanctioned him for not being forthcoming, suspending him for one year.

A COMMITTEE RULING AGAINST

Rignol appealed his suspension to Deputy Dean Anjani Jain who subsequently asked the committee to reconvene and consider the AI violation itself. The committee concluded that Rignol did, in fact, violate exam rules by using AI, citing strong similarities between his answers and ChatGPT responses. It issued a mandatory F in the course.

In his filings, Rignol argued that facing a full-year suspension incentivizes false confessions from accused students, and that he was denied the ability to fully defend himself. He also argued that the schools reliance on AI detection tools was flawed and that the punishment  a standalone suspension for not being forthcoming  was unprecedented at SOM.

The court disagreed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Continuing to serve the suspension does not prevent Rignol from listing merely his year of graduation rather than the number of years he took to earn a degree, Judge Russell wrote, adding that any lost earnings can be quantified and remedied with money damages if his lawsuit is ultimately successful.

She noted that Rignol, unlike undergraduate plaintiffs in similar cases, was a financially successful professional who failed to identify a single concrete opportunity he would forfeit due to the suspension.

POTENTIAL FOR EMBARRASSMENT NOT ENOUGH TO JUSTIFY ANONYMITY, JUDGE SAYS

In a separate ruling on March 31, Russell also denied Rignols request to proceed under the pseudonym John Doe, finding that he failed to meet the legal standard to justify anonymity.

She emphasized that the potential for embarrassment or reputational harm  such as being publicly associated with an academic misconduct case  does not, by itself, override the publics interest in open court proceedings.

I take seriously Does contention that he would be humiliated if he were to disclose that he was accused of academic misconduct, she wrote. But the potential for embarrassment or public humiliation does not, without more, justify a request for anonymity.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rignols lawsuit against Yale is ongoing and includes claims of breach of contract, discrimination, and emotional distress.

You can read Judge Russells ruling on anonymity here and her injunction denial here.

DONT MISS: DENYING ALLEGED AI USE, STUDENT SUES YALE SOM OVER YEAR-LONG SUSPENSION and ACCEPTANCE RATES & YIELD AT THE TOP 100 U.S. MBA PROGRAMS

The post Judge Denies Injunction In Yale Students AI Suspension appeared first on Poets&Quants.
BEIJING - A Chinese movie featuring the Imperial Japanese Army's notorious Unit 731 is expected to be released in China this summer, according to local media reports, with the Japanese government worried about a possible negative impact from the film on bilateral ties.

The production of the movie about the unit, which is thought to have undertaken covert biological and chemical warfare research in China during World War II, was announced in August 2020. It was made with the cooperation of an exhibition hall dedicated to the unit in Harbin in the northeastern province of Heilongjiang.

The film is set to be released in China on July 31 this year, which marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Sino-Japanese conflict, which Beijing calls the 1937-1945 War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression.

Film director Zhao Linshan has told Chinese media that Unit 731 represents "a cruel history that terrified" people in China and abroad and that he hopes to arouse the sympathies of the audience through the movie.

Zhao also said in a Chinese media interview the production is aimed at letting "the light of peace shine on the journey of human civilizations."

A Japanese government source expressed concern over the film's release, saying it could "rekindle rows over history" between the two Asian neighbors and negatively affect bilateral relations.

Set in China's northeastern region, the movie has an antiwar purpose and is designed to "reveal the crimes" of Unit 731 through a focus on ordinary individuals, according to media reports.

The research operation of the unit is believed to have included lethal experimentation and testing on humans. Prisoners of war were secretly experimented upon to develop, among other things, plague and cholera-based biological weapons, according to historians.

The Japanese government maintains the view that it has not confirmed any evidence to indicate the unit's human experiments.

In August last year, Hideo Shimizu, who was a member of Unit 731, returned to its former site in Harbin for the first time in 79 years and mourned the victims of the research operation.

At age 14, Shimizu moved to the puppet state of Manchuria, now northeastern China, and later became a member of the unit's Youth Corps. His visit was widely reported by Chinese media.

In 1997, Japan's Supreme Court, in a ruling concerning state textbook screeners objection to a history textbook's description of the unit's actions in China, said "the view had been established within academic circles to an undeniable extent that Unit 731 had killed many Chinese people through biological experiments."

Related coverage:

Japanese action choreographer wins prize at Hong Kong Film Awards

Shanghai to open Harry Potter theme park in 2027

Japan A-bomb survivor group receives Nobel Peace Prize amid world tensions
A request by Cynthia Sherwood, lead defense attorney for former Tennessee House staffer Cade Cothren, was denied Wednesday by the judge in a federal corruption case. (Photo: John Partipilo)

The judge in a federal corruption case against former Tennessee House Speaker Glen Casada and an ex-aide denied a request by the defense teams for a mistrial.

The ruling by Judge Eli Richardson came Wednesday after attorneys for Casada and his former chief of staff, Cade Cothren, claimed prejudicial evidence was introduced to the jury, after government lawyers played audio that should have been redacted.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The prosecution wrapped up its case and jurors were sent home Wednesday. The rest of the day in court was expected to spent on motions and preparing jury instructions before the defense makes it case.

The audio of Casadas January 2021 interview with FBI agents included Casada saying House Speaker Cameron Sexton did not like Cothren and wouldnt have approved the use of a political consulting firm formed by Casada and Cothren had he known Cothren was involved.

Arguments for a mistrial by the defense rested on the assumption that airing of the audio constituted testimony by Casada against his co-defendant.

In his ruling, Richardson said that while the tape should have been redacted, he was not convinced the unredacted portion of the interview was powerfully incriminating. The judge said he understood that Cothren could be frustrated, but he also questioned why the defense waited before asking for a mistrial and raised doubts about whether jury members had paid attention to the questionable section.

The trial is now in its third week and the prosecution is expected to rest its case by weeks end.

(Sam Stockard contributed to this story.)
Video: Republican Party of Arkansas delegates take legal action against party leaders over refusal to enforce closed primaries

LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  A lawsuit attempting to close Republican primaries in Arkansas to only registered party members had been dismissed in federal court on Monday.

Judge Brian S. Miller said the case was dismissed because federal court is not the appropriate forum to resolve their [the plaintiffs] dispute. Further into his opinion, he cited conflicting rules in the Republican Party of Arkansas (RPA) rule book, adding that any conflict is a RPA or statute question, and not for a federal court to decide.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Arkansas Republicans vote to hold closed primaries, critics voice concerns on rollout

Twenty-two members of the RPA had brought the suit to compel Secretary of State Cole Jester to accept making the primaries closed. The RPA voted to close the primaries during its July 2024 biennial convention and to remove the automatic voting status of elected officials on the RPA state committee.

The motions were controversial at the time, as they were made without being submitted to the partys rules committee prior to the convention. Later, 18 of the 24 members of the RPAs executive committee agreed the changes were invalid after the rules committee chair issued an opinion that the rule changes were invalid.

Republican Party of Arkansas members file for injunction to close party primaries, attorney general counters

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Then Secretary of State John Thurston did not agree to close the primaries, citing confusion within the RPA. Jester has since assumed Thurstons role and position after the former secretary was elected state treasurer.

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 KARK.
KALAMAZOO, Mich. (WOOD)  A judge granted a preliminary injunction to a number of international students, including three at Western Michigan University, saying the federal government must keep their information in a database that tracks their enrollment status.

U.S. District Court Judge Jane Beckering issued the preliminary injunction in a written order Wednesday. She told Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem that she may not terminate the students records in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System absent valid ground as set forth by law. The judge also told the federal government it may not arrest, detain or move the students out of the jurisdictions they are already in without telling the court first.

Beckering had already issued a temporary restraining order to keep the students information in SEVIS ahead of a hearing on the matter. That was held Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At oral argument on May 6, 2025, Defendants argued that the general authority that Congress conferred under 8 U.S.C.  1372 to develop and conduct a program to collect  information about nonimmigrant students somehow provides them specific authority to terminate Plaintiffs status, Beckering wrote in part in the injunction. The Court finds the argument wholly unpersuasive and Defendants reliance on  1372 for this proposition misplaced.

Beckering told the government to provide proof by May 13 that the students information is back in SEVIS. The injunction remains in effect indefinitely as the students lawsuit against the federal government moves forward.

The three WMU students are among 10 at various universities in Michigan and elsewhere who are suing the government, saying it unlawfully terminated their status in SEVIS.

According to a redacted version of the original lawsuit previously sent to News 8, the reason government officials stated for terminating the students SEVIS status in an email was OTHERWISE FAILING TO MAINTAIN STATUS: Individual identified in criminal records check and/or has had their VISA revoked.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the suit, one WMU student is a 27-year-old man from India who is expected to graduate this year with a masters in industrial engineering. He completed probation in January and a misdemeanor retail fraud case was dismissed. A speeding violation was also dismissed. Attorneys in the complaint said that whether or not the dismissal is considered a conviction in immigration law, it does not make the student removable or inadmissible form the U.S.

The second student is a 27-year-old man from Nepal who previously graduated from WMU with a bachelors and masters degrees in aerospace engineering. In his record is one traffic violation, which lawyers say was dismissed after he paid a fine.

A third is a 31-year-old woman who is a Chinese citizen. The doctoral education student is married to a U.S. citizen, has a daughter who is a U.S. citizen and is expecting another child. In December 2020, she got a speeding ticket in Nebraska, which was later dismissed the following year.

The government has until June 17 to file its response to the lawsuit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In April, WMU leaders shared that six students had their SEVIS status terminated, with one students visa revoked that the university was aware of.

News 8 photojournalist Nick Ponton 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 WOODTV.com.
It seems like people are getting ahead of themselves here (Judge charged with felonies in ICE case, April 26).

It was acknowledged that Eduardo Flores-Ruizs exit from the courtroom through the jury door and was within sight of of one or more of the six people who were sent to arrest him. He even rode in the elevator with one of the DEA agents! It hardly sounds like the judge made an effort to help him avoid arrest.

Dugan rightly has control of her courtroom. Doesnt that include giving someone the opportunity to leave by a different door than expected, perhaps to reduce the noise arising from an arrest immediately outside her courtroom?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Opinion: Campaigns have always been rough. I'm sick of politics of personal destruction.

The affidavit is full of claims about how a courtroom should be run, according to FBI Agent Lindsay Schloemer (or maybe according to FBI Director Kash Patel). But Dugan acted within her discretion and should not have been arrested.

This is an attempt by the Trump administration to intimidate the judiciary. It cannot stand.

Joanne Brown, Madison

Federal government casting overly broad net in Dugan case

While I won't pretend to know the specifics of the allegations against Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan, her arrest speaks volumes about the tactics of the current administration (Judge charged with felonies in ICE case, April 27).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The net the federal government is casting is overly broad and will catch many good people like Dugan, a long-time public servant with a stellar record and reputation.

Letters: Endless school referendums show why public schools suffer from lack of funding

Attorney General Pam Bondi calls judges like Dugan deranged. She knows nothing about her but simply resorts to mean rhetoric. Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel both state that "no one is above the law" and yet they and the agencies they lead are doing the bidding of President Donald Trump, a convicted felon, who considers himself to be above the law.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the feds should stay out of our local government institutions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Jim Dunlap, Oconomowoc

Tips for getting your letter to the editor published

Here are some tips to get your views shared with your friends, family, neighbors and across our state:

Please include your name, street address and daytime phone.

Generally, we limit letters to 200 words.

Cite sources of where you found information or the article that prompted your letter.

Be civil and constructive, especially when criticizing.

Avoid ad hominem attacks, take issue with a position, not a person.

We cannot acknowledge receipt of submissions.

We don't publish poetry, anonymous or open letters.

Each writer is limited to one published letter every two months.

All letters are subject to editing.

Write: Letters to the editor, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, 330 E. Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 500, Milwaukee, WI, 53202. Fax: (414)-223-5444. E-mail: jsedit@jrn.com or submit using the form that can be found on the on the bottom of this page.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: It's true that no one is above the law. Not even Trump. | Letters
A federal judge pressed a Justice Department attorney Wednesday about conflicting statements from the Trump administration regarding the more than 200 alleged Venezuelan gang members that were sent to an El Salvador mega-prison.

U.S. District Judge James Boasberg heard arguments Wednesday about a proposed order to facilitate the return of the migrants from the notorious CECOT prison.

During the hearing, Judge Boasberg brought up President Donald Trump's interview last month with ABC News' Terry Moran in which the president said he could secure the return of wrongly deported Kilmar Abrego Garcia.

PHOTO: Prison officers stand guard a cell block at maximum security penitentiary Center for the Compulsory Housing of Terrorism, April 4, 2025 in Tecoluca, San Vicente, El Salvador. (Alex Pena/Getty Images)

"Was the president telling the truth when he said he could pick up the phone and have Mr. Albrego Garcia be released, or not?" Boasberg asked.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Your Honor, that goes towards the president's belief about the influence that he has," replied DOJ attorney Abishek Kambli.

Judge Boasberg brought up Abrego Garcia during his discussion of "constructive custody," referring to the custody of a person not under the government's physical control. He noted that Trump said he had the power to release Abrego Garcia.

The Trump administration invoked the Alien Enemies Act -- an 18th century wartime authority used to remove noncitizens with little-to-no due process -- to deport more than 200 alleged migrant gang members to CECOT by arguing that the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua is a "hybrid criminal state" that is invading the United States.

MORE: Appeals court temporarily halts contempt inquiry over deportation flights

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

An official with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement acknowledged that "many" of the men deported on March 15 lack criminal records in the United States -- but said that "the lack of specific information about each individual actually highlights the risk they pose."

After Judge Boasberg blocked the administration from deporting any noncitizens under the AEA, the U.S. Supreme Court lifted his injunction, allowing the administration to resume deportations as long as detainees are allowed to challenge their removal in the district where they were detained.

The migrants were sent to CECOT as part of a $6 million deal the Trump administration made with Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele for El Salvador to house migrant detainees as part of Trump's immigration crackdown. When asked by Judge Boasberg if the U.S. paid El Salvador to house the migrants, Kambli said that "there is no agreement or arrangement whereby the United States maintains any agency or control over the prisoners."

Kambli added that El Salvador "makes its own sovereign decisions including with respect to detention" and said that the funds provided to the country were grants to be used for law enforcement and "anti crime purposes."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"White House Press Secretary Karoline Levitt said it was approximately $6 million to El Salvador for the detention of these foreign terrorists ... so was she wrong?" Boasberg asked.

When Kambli said again that the U.S. provided grants to El Salvador, Judge Boasberg brought up comments from DHS Secretary Kristi Noem in which she said that CECOT "is one of the tools in our toolkit if you commit crimes against the American people."

MORE: Judge says deporting migrants to Libya would violate his order

"Is she wrong about that?" Boasberg asked.

"'I'm not going to necessarily parse out every statement, and sometimes public statements lack nuance of any given situation," Kambli replied.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When Boasberg noted that the Supreme Court did not decide "one way or another" about the validity of Trump's invocation of the Alien Enemies Act, Kambli conceded that SCOTUS did not "analyze that precise issue."

Judge Boasberg then asked Kambli about the notice that migrants who were sent to CECOT received, saying, "You're not disagreeing that these folks did not get due process before they were transferred?"

"They got some notice ... I'm not sure the precise contours of that, but it wasn't the 12 hours that we were providing at this moment," Kambli said.

MORE: El Salvador prison holding alleged Venezuelan gang members has been criticized for alleged abuses

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"At 8 o'clock at night they could move someone out of criminal custody to ICE custody in Texas or wherever, and that person's gone by 8 a.m.," said Lee Gelernt, an attorney for the ACLU.

Boasberg said he would issue an order regarding constructive custody, and told the DOJ attorney he could file any further declarations from the State Department regarding the issue. He also said the plaintiffs could decide by Monday whether they want discovery.

After resolving the constructive custody issue, Judge Boasberg said he would move on to assessing "whether a violation has occurred."

Judge hears arguments over fate of CECOT detainees originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
A federal judge has ruled that a group of Burger King customers can proceed with a lawsuit over the size of their Whoppers.

In a filing Monday, Florida District Judge Roy K. Altman denied a motion to dismiss the case against the fast food giant, which has been accused of falsely advertising its products.

After careful review  and drawing all reasonable inferences for the Plaintiffs  we find it plausible to believe that some reasonable consumers could be deceived by [Burger King Corporation] BKCs advertisements, the judge ruled.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The plaintiff's allegations "go beyond mere exaggeration or puffery, Altman added. The original suit is being brought by 19 customers from 13 different states.

A federal judge has denied a motion to dismiss a lawsuit against Burger King over misleading ads about its burgers. The lawsuit, obtained by The Independent, contains side-by-side images of the brightly colored advertisement burgers ... (Burger King)

Each of our Plaintiffs purchased BKC products at Burger King stores in their home states, and each came away disappointed by the incongruity between what they received and what they expected based on BKCs advertisements, Altmans ruling stated.

... next to sad-looking, real-life photos taken by the customers (Court filings)

Most reasonable consumers would be vexed by the differences in the advertisements, it added.

Though the motion to dismiss the suit has been denied, a date has not been set for the jury trial  as requested by the plaintiffs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the original lawsuit, Burger King began to materially overstate the size of its burgers in its ads in September 2017.

The corporation advertises its burgers as large burgers compared to competitors and containing oversized meat patties and ingredients that overflow over the bun to make it appear that the burgers are approximately 35 percent larger in size, and contain more than double the meat, than the actual burger, the suit states.

According to the original lawsuit, Burger King began to materially overstate the size of its burgers in its ads in September 2017 (Mike Egerton/PA Wire)

The lawsuit, obtained by The Independent, contains side-by-side images of the brightly colored, bursting advertisement burgers next to sad-looking, real-life photos taken by the customers.

Burger King overstates the size of nearly every menu item in its current advertisements, the suit claims.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Included on the lawsuits list of overstated menu items are: the Impossible Whopper, Big King, Single Quarter Pound King, Bacon King, Double Whopper, Triple Whopper With Cheese, Whopper Jr., Bacon Double Cheeseburger, Double Cheeseburger, Bacon Cheeseburger, Cheeseburger, Hamburger, Whopper Melt, Bacon Whopper Melt, Spicy Whopper Melt, Breakfast Bacon King, Fully Loaded CroisannWich, Double Sausage, and the Egg & Cheese CroissanWich.

In response to Mondays ruling a spokesperson for Burger King said that the plaintiffs claims were false, adding: "The flame-grilled beef patties portrayed in our advertising are the same patties used in the millions of burgers we serve to Guests across the U.S.
CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A judge has ordered the Trump administration to admit some 12,000 refugees into the United States. The court order on Monday partially blocks the presidents efforts to suspend the nations refugee admissions program. Chief Legal Analyst Khalif Rhodes explains the order and what it means for the Trump administrations next steps.

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.
By Luc Cohen and Jack Queen

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The judge overseeing Sean "Diddy" Combs' sex trafficking trial admonished a lawyer close to the hip-hop mogul's defense team for referring to the prosecutors in the case as a "six-pack of white women" in comments on a podcast.

The lawyer, Mark Geragos, said in a May 2 episode of "Two Angry Men," a podcast he co-hosts with celebrity news website TMZ's founder Harvey Levin, that the racial and gender composition of the six-member prosecution team was "interesting."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Geragos said race may be an "undercurrent" at the trial, but would not be a focus of Combs' defense.

"That's something that you shouldn't, that no one should be saying as an officer of the Court and a member of the bar," U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian told Geragos in a private conversation in his robing room on Tuesday before jury selection resumed, according to a trial transcript.

"Referring to the prosecution in this case as a six-pack of white women is outrageous," said the judge, who is of South Asian descent.

Combs, who is Black, has pleaded not guilty to a five-count indictment charging him with racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prosecution. Jury selection is expected to finish on Friday, with opening statements scheduled for Monday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Prosecutors with the Manhattan U.S. Attorney's office say Combs used his business empire to coerce women into taking part in days-long, drug-fueled sex parties known as freak offs. His defense will argue that the sex acts prosecutors described were consensual and that the alleged victims expected to testify against him cannot be trusted.

Combs' lawyers have said in court papers that he is being unfairly targeted for prosecution because of his race, but will not make that argument at trial.

LAWYER HAS REPRESENTED HUNTER BIDEN, MENENDEZ BROTHERS

Geragos, who is white, is a well-known Los Angeles-based lawyer who has represented President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden as well as Lyle and Erik Menendez, two brothers who were convicted of murdering their parents in 1989.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He is not representing Combs in his criminal case, but told Subramanian he speaks with the rapper frequently and represents his mother in a matter which he did not describe in detail. Geragos' daughter, Teny Geragos, is one of Combs' defense lawyers at trial.

Mark Geragos told the judge that he was not trying to interfere with either side's right to a fair trial but that defendants had the right to respond to negative pre-trial publicity.

"When you've got a Black man who's being prosecuted and the client feels like he's being targeted, it's a, it's an observation," Geragos said, according to the transcript.

Geragos did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Nicholas Biase, a spokesperson for the Manhattan U.S. Attorney's office, declined to comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Prosecutor Christy Slavik told the judge the TMZ podcast had millions of subscribers.

"The danger of Mr. Geragos' statements infecting the jury pool I think is very serious," Slavik said in Subramanian's robing room, according to the transcript.

Subramanian told Geragos he would be monitoring his comments.

"You have one more listener for your podcast," the judge said.

"As long as you subscribe," Geragos replied, "I'm all for it."

(Reporting by Luc Cohen and Jack Queen in New York; Editing by Howard Goller)
WASHINGTON (AP)  A federal judge on Wednesday said he'll order the Trump administration to provide more information about the terms under which dozens of Venezuelan immigrants are being held at a notorious prison in El Salvador, moving a step closer to deciding whether to require the men to be returned to the United States.

District Court Judge James E. Boasberg said he needed the information to determine whether the roughly 200 men, deported in March under an 18th century wartime law, were still effectively in U.S. custody. Boasberg noted that President Donald Trump had boasted in an interview that he could get back one man wrongly imprisoned in El Salvador in a separate case by simply asking. The government's lawyer, Abishek Kambli, said that and other public statements by administration officials about their relationship with El Salvador lacked nuance.

Kambli would not give Boasberg any information about the administration's deal with El Salvador's President, Nayib Bukele, who once called himself the world's coolest dictator and is holding immigrants deported from the U.S. at his country's CECOT prison. He would not even confirm the terms of the deal, which the White House has said are a $20 million payment to El Salvador.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Boasberg wants the information to establish whether the administration has what's called constructive custody of the immigrants, meaning it could return them if he ordered it. The ACLU has asked that Boasberg order the return of the men, who were accused of being members of a gang Trump claimed was invading the country. Minutes after Trump unveiled his proclamation in March, claiming wartime powers to short-circuit immigration proceedings and remove the men without court hearings, the immigrants were flown to El Salvador.

That happened despite Boasberg's ruling that the planes needed to be turned around until he could rule on the legality of the move, and he is separately examining whether to hold the government in contempt for that action.

After the March flights, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously ruled that no one could be deported under the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 without a chance to challenge it in court. Since then, three separate federal judges have ruled that Trump's invocation of the act was illegal because the gang he named is not actually at war with the U.S. It's likely that those rulings will be appealed all the way back up to the Supreme Court.

Kambli on Wednesday acknowledged that the men deported on the March flights did not get the chance to contest their designation under the Alien Enemies Act, or AEA, as the high court requires. But he argued that Boasberg cannot conclude the United States still has custody of the men. If the U.S. asks for them back, Kambli said, El Salvador can say No.'"

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When it required court hearings for those targeted by the act, the high court also took much of the AEA case away from Boasberg, ruling that immigrants have to contest their removal in the places they're being detained, not Boasberg's Washington, D.C., courtroom. Boasberg, who'd blocked removals nationwide initially, has held onto some of the case, including the fate of the men who were first deported.

Trump and some Republican allies have called for impeaching Boasberg, who was nominated to the bench by Democratic President Barack Obama. Those calls prompted a rare statement from Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, who said impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement concerning a judicial decision.

Boasberg hinted Wednesday he may ultimately require that the deported men receive the due process the high court requires, be it by bringing them back or ordering them moved to another facility, like Guantanamo Bay, fully under U.S. control.

There was also a hint that Boasberg was aware of the way Trump and his supporters have spun the legal decisions in the case. He noted that some in the government have described the initial Supreme Court ruling as a victory in which the court upheld the legality of Trump's proclamation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Noting that there was an open line so the public could listen to the hearing, Boasberg read from that ruling, which states explicitly that it does not address the legality of labeling the gang a foreign invader.

We agree, Kambli said. they did not handle that precise issue.

Riccardi reported from Denver
The following is the latest list of selected news summaries by Kyodo News.

----------

Japan ruling bloc eyes fresh economic steps to counter U.S. tariffs

TOKYO - Japan's ruling coalition agreed on Wednesday to consider new economic measures to cushion the impact of higher tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, aiming to compile the package in time for the House of Councillors election in July.

Liberal Democratic Party Secretary General Hiroshi Moriyama and his Komeito party counterpart Makoto Nishida agreed on the need to take relief steps while assessing Japan's ongoing trade negotiations with the United States, according to a lawmaker who joined their meeting in Tokyo.

----------

India strikes inside Pakistan after April terrorist attack in Kashmir

NEW DELHI/ISLAMABAD - India said Wednesday it has attacked "terrorist infrastructure sites" in Pakistan following a deadly incident that occurred on the Indian side of the disputed Kashmir region last month.

The Pakistan military said the strikes by Indian missiles killed at least 26 people and left 46 others injured, labelling it an attack targeting civilian areas. It announced the launch of a retaliatory attack and shot down five Indian aircraft.

----------

Mitsubishi Motors to outsource EV production to Taiwan's Foxconn

TOKYO - Mitsubishi Motors Corp. said Wednesday that it has signed a memorandum with a unit of Taiwan electronics giant Foxconn to be supplied with the arm's electric vehicles, aiming to roll them out in Australia and New Zealand in the second half of next year.

The Japanese carmaker said in a statement that it will proceed with further discussions with Foxtron Vehicle Technologies Co., an EV developing arm of Foxconn, formally known as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co.

----------

Japan rice prices hit new high despite gov't steps to boost supply

TOKYO - Japan's rice prices rose to a record average of 4,233 yen ($30) per 5 kilograms, more than double the level a year earlier, the government said Wednesday, in a sign that its stockpile releases have had limited effect in stabilizing supply.

The 17th consecutive weekly increase comes as Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has instructed a policy chief of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party to draw up measures aimed at alleviating the negative impact of soaring rice prices.

----------

China announces rate cut to aid economy amid tariff war with U.S.

BEIJING - China's central bank said Wednesday it will cut a key policy interest rate the following day to bolster the economy hit by a tariff war with the United States, with the announcement made ahead of the two countries' talks to de-escalate trade tensions.

The seven-day reverse repos rate will be lowered by 0.1 percentage point to 1.4 percent, the People's Bank of China said. As part of monetary easing steps, the amount of cash that banks must hold as reserves will also be trimmed by 0.5 percentage point from May 15.

----------

Japan imperial couple, Princess Aiko to visit Okinawa WWII sites

TOKYO - Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako will visit Okinawa next month to pay their respects to the war dead ahead of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, with their only daughter Princess Aiko set to accompany them on her first trip to the prefecture, the Imperial Household Agency said Wednesday.

After arriving in Okinawa from Tokyo's Haneda airport on June 4, the imperial family will lay flowers at the national cemetery for the war dead in Itoman and visit the "Cornerstone of Peace" cenotaph, according to the agency. They also plan to speak with survivors at the Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum.

----------

Woman gets suspended term for aiding daughter hide severed head

SAPPORO - A Japanese court on Wednesday sentenced a woman to 14 months in prison, suspended for three years, for helping her daughter hide the head of a man, who was allegedly murdered and decapitated in Sapporo in 2023.

Hiroko Tamura, 62, had pleaded not guilty to aiding in the abandonment of the corpse and allowing her daughter to film an act of desecration during her trial at the Sapporo District Court. Her daughter Runa faces murder and other charges for allegedly killing and beheading the man.

----------

Chilean president to make 2-day visit to Japan from Sun.

TOKYO - Chilean President Gabriel Boric will make a two-day visit to Japan from Sunday, the Japanese government said.

During his stay, Boric is expected to hold talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and visit the World Exposition in Osaka to take part in the South American country's national day event, the Foreign Ministry said Wednesday.

Video: Golden Week holiday ends
The judiciary pushed back against Donald Trump's deportation regime again on Wednesday, ordering officials to take action in ongoing cases against pro-Palestinian activists.

A federal appeals court ordered immigration officials to move detained Tufts University student Rumeysa Ozturk to Vermont, giving the government 10 days to comply.

Plainclothes officers arrested Ozturk in Somerville, Mass. in March and quickly moved to detention facilities in Vermont and then Louisiana, in a blatant attempt to bring her immigration case in a venue friendly to the Trump administration. Ozturk has not been charged with a crime and filed a habeas petition to question her detention in Vermont. Ozturk's attorneys maintain that she was arrested for her part in an opinion piece criticizing Tufts' response to the war in Gaza, while the Trump administration has accused her of "engag[ing] in activities in support of Hamas."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ozturk's petition has moved forward even as she has been held in Louisiana. In their Wednesday ruling, the court said that Ozturk's need to attend these hearings outweighs any logistical concerns of the government.

"Today's ruling does not prevent the continued detention of Ms. Ozturk, and we will continue to fight for the arrest, detention, and removal of aliens who have no right to be in this country," Department of Homeland Security Spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin told NPR after the ruling.

In another high-profile deportation case, a federal judge ordered the Trump administration to lay out their precedent for deporting Mahmoud Khalil. The former Columbia University grad student was arrested by plainclothes ICE agents in March over his participation in pro-Palestine protests at the university.

Authorities are seeking to deport Khalil, who is a permanent U.S. resident, as a threat to U.S. foreign policy. District Court Judge Michael Farbiarz ordered Trump officials to supply every deportation that has been carried out under similar reasoning, setting a deadline of Thursday morning. Farbiarz had previously blocked the removal of Khalil, allowing claims that his rights to free speech were being violated to be heard by the courts.
Jurors listened Tuesday to the frantic moments a physician and a Davis police officer tried to save Karim Abou Najm as he lay dying on a Sycamore Park bicycle trail.

The wrenching recording culled from the officers body camera concluded the second morning of Carlos Reales Dominguezs murder trial in Yolo Superior Court in Woodland, now in its guilt phase. A second phase of the trial will follow to determine whether Dominguez was sane at the time of his alleged attacks.

The former UC Davis student faces murder and attempted murder charges in the weeklong stabbing rampage that left two dead and grievously wounded another in late April and early May 2023.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dominguez has pleaded not guilty and not guilty by reason of insanity in the 2023 spree. He sat motionless at the defense table next to Yolo County deputy public defender Daniel Hutchinson as the violent night Najm was killed replayed in the courtroom.

Najm, 20, was the sprees second victim on April 29, 2023, stabbed repeatedly in the savage attack and fighting for his life as Davis police Cpl. Pheng Ly raced to the scene. Ly took the stand Tuesday before Yolo Superior Court Judge Samuel McAdam, describing the late-night call broadcast over his cruisers radio.

Davis Police Department detective Alex Torres describes the dirt on a pair of sweat pants that was worn by David Breaux, who was allegedly stabbed to death by former UC Davis student Carlos Reales Dominguez, during the first day of trial at Yolo Superior Court in Woodland on Monday.

It was a report of a man down with blood all over him at Sycamore and Colby in West Davis, Ly testified. I went emergency lights and sirens. A person down with blood all over him  there had been a homicide a few days earlier and that played in my mind as well.

Davis was a city on edge and in shock after the knife killing two days earlier of 50-year-old David Breaux, the beloved compassion guy who found dead on a bench in the citys Central Park. Ly rushed to a physician desperately performing CPR and pleading with Najm to stay alive.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Come on, buddy, the man could be heard as he continued performing chest compressions on Najm.

The doctor lived in a home on the parks border and told Ly he saw the attack on Najm as well as the young UC Davis students assailant flee down the trail. He heard a man call for help and was able to give Ly a description of Najms attacker. He was 19 or 20, white or Hispanic, the physician said, as an urgent Ly took over CPR and called dispatchers.

I need all units here, Ly said on the recording. Hes not looking good. Multiple stab wounds.

Davis Police Department detective Alex Torres moves a sweater that was worn by David Breaux who was allegedly stabbed to death by former UC Davis student Carlos Reales Dominguez, during the first day of trial at Yolo Superior Court in Woodland on Monday.

Dominguez jurors heard testimony from several witnesses Tuesday including Davis police officers and crime scene technicians who were first on scene at Central Park where Breauxs body was found. The 14 jurors  eight women and six men  and three alternates also heard from unhoused residents near the tent where Kimberlee Guillory, the third stabbing victim, was attacked and seriously injured.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Officers used crime scene photographs to detail for jurors the wounds Breaux suffered in the deadly attack  puncture wounds to his back, arms and hands as he presumably tried to fend off his assailant.

Trial proceedings are being live-streamed online but, on Yolo judge McAdams order, graphic images of the crimes were shown only inside the courtroom.

Patricia Mendes, an American Medical Response paramedic with 41 years on the job, was among the first to find the deceased Breaux on the park bench late on the morning after he was killed April 27, 2023. Under the bench was a very large puddle of blood.

There was no pulse, she testified.

Davis Police Department detective Alex Torres describes the evidence of stabbings on a sweater, allegedly fatally stabbed by former UC Davis student Carlos Reales Dominguez, during the first day of trial at Yolo Superior Court in Woodland on Monday.

Mendes testified that as she tended to Breaux, she spotted something in the grass beside the bench.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I saw an empty knife sheath made of leather that appeared to be brand new, she testified.

Prosecutors allege the leather sheath was part of the tactical knife they say Dominguez purchased online in December 2022, five months before the attacks that killed Breaux and Najm and wounded Guillory.

Testimony resumes Wednesday and was expected to continue for another week and a half.
SALINA, Kan. (KSNW)  A Saline County jury has convicted a 38-year-old man of the murder of 25-year-old Camilo Ramirez in 2021. The suspect, Juan Doroteo Morales, was one of four people arrested.

On Aug. 23, 2021, Morales, Jaime Leos, Jacob Leos and Kiera Stewart pulled up to the Iron and Front Laundromat, where Ramirez had agreed to meet Stewart. Detectives said the codefendants lured him there.

Juan Morales (Courtesy Saline County Sheriffs Office) Jacob Leos (Courtesy Saline County Sheriffs Office) Jaime Leos (Courtesy Saline County Sheriffs Office) Kiera Stewart (Courtesy Saline County Sheriffs Office)

Investigators said that Morales and Jacob Leos got out of the car and opened fire on Ramirez. He tried to run but was shot in the back of the head and died later. The guns were later found in a drainage system.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After a trial that started April 25, a jury found Morales guilty of first-degree, premeditated murder, aggravated assault, and criminal possession of a firearm by a felon. He will be sentenced on Aug. 15.

The other three suspects pleaded guilty instead of going to trial.

Stewart entered her plea in 2022, admitting to intentional murder in the second degree, attempted aggravated robbery, and conspiracy to commit aggravated robbery. She testified during Morales trial. Stewart will be sentenced on May 16.

Jacob Leos entered his plea in May 2024. He pleaded guilty to intentional murder in the second degree, conspiracy to commit murder in the first degree, and aggravated assault. He will be sentenced on May 20.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

First measles case reported in Sedgwick County

Jaime Leos entered his plea in July 2024, pleading to voluntary manslaughter and conspiracy to commit murder in the second degree. He will be sentenced on May 16.

The Salina Police Department and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation investigated the case, which the Kansas Attorney Generals Office prosecuted.

Everyone involved in Camilo Ramirezs murder has now been held accountable for their actions. I am pleased that justice was served, Jessica Domme, Deputy Attorney General, said in a news release.

For more Kansas news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news by downloading our mobile app and signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track 3 Weather app by clicking here.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 KSN-TV.
May 7 (UPI) -- A federal jury in California has ordered Israeli cybersecurity firm NSO to pay WhatsApp nearly $170 million in damages for using the smartphone messaging application to spy on nearly 1,500 human rights activists, journalists and political dissidents in 2019.

"Today's verdict in WhatsApp's case is an important step forward for privacy and security as the first victory against the development and use of illegal spyware that threatens the safety and privacy of everyone," WhatsApp said Tuesday in a blog post.

NSO, infamous for its Pegasus malware, was ordered Tuesday to pay WhatsApp $167 million in punitive damages and an additional $440,000 in compensatory damages, The Hill reported.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Meta, then known as Facebook, filed the lawsuit against NSO Group Technologies Limited in 2019, accusing it of infecting the smartphones of some 1,400 users with its Pegasus malware between April and May of that year over its WhatsApp messaging service.

Targets included attorneys, journalists, human rights activists, dissidents, diplomats and senior government officials. The targets were from several countries, including Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Mexico.

The lawsuit never stated who had hired NSO.

According to WhatsApp, during the six-year litigation, it was learned that Pegasus, once installed on a smartphone, had the ability to suck up information from any app on the device -- information from financial and location to emails and text messages -- as well as control their microphones and cameras.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A judge in December had ruled in WhatsApp's favor, with the jury deciding on compensation Tuesday.

"The jury's verdict today to punish NSO is a critical deterrent to the spyware industry against their illegal acts aimed at American companies and our users worldwide," WhatsApp head Will Cathcart said on X.

"The fight isn't over. Our next step is to secure a court order to prevent NSO from ever targeting WhatsApp again."

WhatsApp said in its blog post that the trial also showed that WhatsApp was not NSO's only target and that it has had "many other spyware installation methods" to exploit technologies of other companies to gain access to customers' phones.

"Given how much information people access on their devices, including through private end-to-end encrypted apps like WhatsApp, Signal and others, we will continue going after spyware vendors indiscriminately targeting people around the world," it said.
AUSTIN (KXAN)  In a public health committee meeting Wednesday, public health leaders gave an update on the spread of measles in our community.

According to Janet Pichette, the chief epidemiologist at Austin Public Health (APH), there were more than 900 measles cases reported in the US as of Friday. Of those people, most are younger than 20 and unvaccinated.

Texas represents roughly 75% of those nationwide cases, with 702 cases reported as of Tuesday, Pichette said. Two children have died in Texas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There have been three confirmed cases of measles or measles exposure reported in Austin-Travis County.

APH said the first case reported was in February in an unvaccinated infant

A second case was reported in April in a vaccinated adult who officials believe was exposed to the virus while traveling in the US

And a person traveling from El Paso late last month may have exposed Austinites to the measles, APH recently said

Pichette said the person traveling from El Paso may have been to additional locations in Central Texas and that theyre still working to trace possible exposure.

Pichette also said APH is currently investigating a large number of possible cases. She described the effort required to get samples, investigate exposure and get results from the lab. Of those cases, many will not be measles, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As we found out with COVID, disease is just an airplane ride away. And people need to make sureif you are unsure about your immunization status, or if you are unvaccinated, especially in summer travel months that they are making sure that theyre protected, Pichette 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 KXAN Austin.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Authorities have identified the victim of a deadly shooting that happened in Vancouver on Saturday.

The Clark County Medical Examiners Office said 62-year-old Rodney A. Hupp was shot to death on May 3. The cause of death was listed as gunshot wounds Hupp sustained in his torso and right thigh after being murdered in his home, officials said.

Yelp names top 10 Portland-area brunch spots

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The shooting occurred around 4 a.m. near Southeast French Road and 19th Street. The Vancouver Police Department responded after a 911 call, finding the victim seriously wounded. He was taken to a hospital but later died, officials said.

KOIN 6 News spoke with Eileen Ward, Hupps cousin. She described him as a gentleman of no violence and left behind a wife and seven adult children.

He definitely loved love and loved fishing and all those great things of life, Ward said. And it just hurts. It hurts to the core, because I know that now my buddy wont be here.

The investigation is ongoing and no arrests have been made.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Anyone with information is asked to contact Vancouver police.

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.
(NewsNation)  As legal battles continue between It Ends With Us costars Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively, Baldonis foundation, Wayfarer Foundation, is closing.

Baldoni, who owns the foundation with producing partner Steve Sarowitz, is closing Wayfarere Studios.

In a statement on Instagram, Sarowitz said, Upon unanimous decision of the board of directors, today (May 2) we will begin the process of sunsetting the Foundation. We will honor all of our current grant commitments as we carefully wind down operations over the next several weeks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds friends dragged into It Ends With Us lawsuit; content creators claim theyre being intimidated

He also said, Although the Wayfarer Foundation is closing, my personal commitment to giving remains strong, and Im dedicated to making an impact on society through the ongoing mission and work I am so incredibly proud of the impact this organization has made and deeply grateful for our staff, board, donors and partners.

Justin Baldoni on board of Wayfarer Foundation since 2016

Baldoni has been on the foundation as a board member since 2016, when it launched. According to E! News, the foundation has teamed up with Skid Row Carnival of Love in the past, which is a humanitarian venture that Baldoni started. This group gives donations and resources to those who are unhoused in Downtown L.A.

Why it may be challenging for Diddys jury to remain impartial

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We have too many people who are isolated and being left behind by society. But whats been so amazing is finding that there are so many people in our cities who sincerely want to connect and give back, Baldoni told The Hollywood Reporter.

Justin Baldoni currently being sued by Blake Lively

This comes as Baldoni is being sued by former co-star Lively for alleged sexual harassment. In February, one insider told NewsNation that Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, have no idea whats coming down the pike.

Baldoni has also filed a suit, claiming he had to deal with being defamed and extortion attempts. Baldoni also filed a libel suit against the New York Times, but that was paused in March.

Justin Baldoni at the It Ends With Us New York Premiere at AMC Lincoln Square Theater on August 06, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by John Nacion/Variety via Getty Images) FILE  Justin Baldoni attends the world premiere of It Ends with Us at AMC Lincoln Square on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in New York. (Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP, File) This combination of images shows Blake Lively at the London screening of the film It Ends With Us on Aug. 8, 2024, left, and Justin Baldoni at the world premiere of the film in New York on Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo) : Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively are seen on the set of It Ends with Us on January 12, 2024 in Jersey City, New Jersey. (Photo by Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images) JERSEY CITY, NJ  JANUARY 12: Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively are seen on the set of It Ends with Us on January 12, 2024 in Jersey City, New Jersey. (Photo by Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images) This image released by Sony Pictures shows Justin Baldoni, left, and Blake Lively in a scene from It Ends With Us. (Nicole Rivelli/Sony Pictures via AP)

Since the feud started, Livelys popularity has gone down. But, as NewsNations Paula Froelich reported, Lively did rekindle her friendship with Taylor Swift.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A trial date for the Lively suit against Baldoni has been scheduled for March 2026.

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.
Originally appeared on E! Online

Justin Baldoni's Wayfarer Foundation is closing its doors.

Amid the It Ends With Us actor's legal battle with costar Blake Lively, he and his producing partner Steve Sarowitz are shuttering the philanthropic branch of their company Wayfarer Studios.

"Upon unanimous decision of the board of directors, today we will begin the process of sunsetting the Foundation," Sarowitz shared in a May 2 statement posted on Instagram. "We will honor all of our current grant commitments as we carefully wind down operations over the next several weeks."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He continued, "Although the Wayfarer Foundation is closing, my personal commitment to giving remains strong, and Im dedicated to making an impact on society through the ongoing mission and work."

And while Sarowitz noted that "this news may come as a surprise" to some, he said the organization will be "actively working over the next several weeks to ensure all matters are concluded with care and attention."

The 60-year-old added, "I am so incredibly proud of the impact this organization has made and deeply grateful for our staff, board, donors and partners."

More from E! Online

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Baldoni, 41, has been serving as Wayfarer Foundation board member since its launch in 2016. According to the group's website, their mission is to "advance humankind spiritually towards a future peaceful world civilization" by supporting "spiritually rooted and justice-oriented nonprofits."

Most notably, the foundation teamed up with Skid Row Carnival of Loveanother humanitarian venture started by Baldonito provide donations and resources to the unhoused popualation in Downtown Los Angeles.

We have too many people who are isolated and being left behind by society," Baldoni told The Hollywood Reporter in 2019. "But whats been so amazing is finding that there are so many people in our cities who sincerely want to connect and give back."

Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for Vital Voices Global Partnership

He added at the time, "We want to give people the tools to bring this to their own communities."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The shuttering comes as Baldoni is currently being sued for sexual harassment by Lively, who alleges that the filmmaker and his company retaliated against her when she spoke up. Meanwhile, he is countersuing the Gossip Girl alum and her husband Ryan Reynolds, denying Lively's allegations and accusing the couple of starting a smear campaign against him. (Lively and Reynolds has refuted the Jane the Virgin stars allegations.)

A trial date has been set for March 2026.

For more about Baldoni and Lively's legal saga, keep reading...

Dec. 20, 2024: Blake Lively Files CRD Complaint Against Justin Baldoni and His Wayfarer Associates

Four months after the film adaptation of Colleen Hoover's book It Ends With Us debuted in theaters, Blake Lively filed a California Civil Rights Department (CRD) complaint against her costar Justin Baldoni and his associates on Dec. 20, according to The New York Times.



In the complaint obtained by E! News, Baldoni, his production company Wayfarer Studios (Wayfarer), its CEO Jamey Heath, its cofounder Steve Sarowitz, Baldoni's publicist Jennifer Abel, her company RWA Communications, crisis communications specialist Melissa Nathan, her company The Agency Group PR LLC (TAG), contractor Jed Wallace and his company Street Relations Inc. were listed as defendants.



Lively alleged in her complaint that Baldoni and his Wayfarer associates "embarked on a sophisticated press and digital plan in retaliation" for her voicing her concerns about purported misconduct on setwith her saying she and other cast and crew members "experienced invasive, unwelcome, unprofessional and sexually inappropriate behavior" by Baldoni and Heath.



The actress added the alleged campaign against her caused "substantial harm" to her personally and professionally.



The accusations listed in the complaint include sexual harassment; retaliation; failure to investigate, prevent and/or remedy harassment; aiding and abetting harassment and retaliation; breach of contract; intentional infliction of emotional distress; negligence; false light invasion of privacy and interference with prospective economic advantage.





Dec. 21, 2024: The New York Times Publishes Report About the Alleged Smear Campaign Against Lively

The next day, The New York Times published a report about a retaliatory smear campaign Baldoni and his associates allegedly waged against Livelyciting her CRD complaint. In its article, the outlet quoted messages sent from Baldoni and his teamincluding publicist Abel and crisis communications specialist Nathanthat were part of her complaint. Readers could also scroll through the court documents on The New York Times' website.



I hope that my legal action helps pull back the curtain on these sinister retaliatory tactics to harm people who speak up about misconduct," Lively told the outlet, "and helps protect others who may be targeted. Reporting by Sara Ouerfelli





Dec. 21, 2024: Baldoni and Wayfarers Attorney Responds to Livelys CRD Complaint

After news of Livelys complaint broke, Bryan Freedmanthe attorney for Baldoni, Wayfarer and its representativesslammed Livelys allegations.



It is shameful that Ms. Lively and her representatives would make such serious and categorically false accusations against Mr. Baldoni, Wayfarer Studios and its representatives, as yet another desperate attempt to fix her negative reputation which was garnered from her own remarks and actions during the campaign for the film; interviews and press activities that were observed publicly, in real time and unedited, which allowed for the internet to generate their own views and opinions, he said in a statement on The New York Times website. These claims are completely false, outrageous and intentionally salacious with an intent to publicly hurt and rehash a narrative in the media.



Freedman also defended Wayfarers decision to hire a crisis manager, saying this was done before the marketing campaign of the movie.



"The representatives of Wayfarer Studios still did nothing proactive nor retaliated, and only responded to incoming media inquiries to ensure balanced and factual reporting and monitored social activity, he later added. What is pointedly missing from the cherry-picked correspondence is the evidence that there were no proactive measures taken with media or otherwise; just internal scenario planning and private correspondence to strategize which is standard operating procedure with public relations professionals.





Dec. 21, 2024: Baldoni Is Dropped by Talent Agency

Talent agency William Morris Endeavor (WME) dropped Baldoni after The New York Times article was published on Dec. 21, Ari Emanuel, CEO of the agencys parent company Endeavor, confirmed to the outlet.



However, WME denied that Lively's husband Ryan Reynolds was to blame for the agency's parting of ways with Baldoni, which the It Ends With Us director later allege in his lawsuit filed against The New York Times (more on that below).



"In Baldonis filing there is a claim that Reynolds pressured Baldonis agent at the Deadpool & Wolverine premiere. This is not true, WMEwhich also represents Reynolds and Livelysaid in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter Jan. 1. "Baldonis former representative was not at the Deadpool & Wolverine premiere nor was there any pressure from Reynolds or Lively at any time to drop Baldoni as a client."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement





Dec. 21, 2024: It Ends With Us Cast Members and More Stars React to Livelys Allegations Against Baldoni



In the days following Lively's CRD filing and The New York Times article, several famous figures shared their reactions to her allegations against Baldoniincluding It Ends With Us author Hoover.



"@blakelively, you have been nothing but honest, kind, supportive and patient since the day we met," she wrote on Instagram Stories Dec. 21, linking out to The New York Times. "Thank you for being exactly the human that you are. Never change. Never wilt."



Jenny Slate, who played the sister of Baldoni's character Ryle, also noted she stood with Lively.



As Blake Livelys castmate and friend, I voice my support as she takes action against those reported to have planned and carried out an attack on her reputation, Slate said in a Dec. 23 statement to Today. Blake is a leader, loyal friend and a trusted source of emotional support for me and so many who know and love her.



What has been revealed about the attack on Blake is terribly dark, disturbing, and wholly threatening," she added. "I commend my friend, I admire her bravery, and I stand by her side.



In addition, Brandon Sklenara love interest for Lively's character Lily Bloomshared a screenshot of the complaint published to The New York Times' website and linked out to the outlet writing, "For the love of God read this."



Plus, Lively's Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants costars America Ferrera, Alexis Bledel and Amber Tamblyn wrote they "stand with her in solidarity."





Dec. 23, 2024: Baldoni and Heath's Cohost on The Man Enough Podcast Leaves Show

Liz Plank also announced her departure from The Man Enough Podcast, which she cohosted with Baldoni and Heath, on Dec. 23.



"I'm writing to you today to let you know that I have had my representatives inform Wayfarer that I will no longer be co-hosting The Man Enough podcast," she wrote on Instagram at the time. "Thank you for trusting me with your hearts and stories, for holding space for mine, and for making this show what it was. I will miss you, the listeners, so much. I love what this community created together with every fiber of my being, and that's because of you."



While Plank did not give a reason for her exit from the podcast, it came days after Lively's complaint against Baldoni and his Wayfarer associates.



"As this chapter closed for me, I remain committed to the values we've built together," the author continued in her message to her followers. "Thank you for being here, for trusting me, and for being by my side for the last four years. We all deserve better, and I know that together, we can create it."



She added, "I will have more to share soon as I continue to process everything that has happened. In the meantime, I will continue to support everyone who calls out injustice and holds the people standing in their way accountable."









Dec. 24, 2024: Baldoni's Former Publicist Sues Him, Abel, Nathan and Wayfarer

Baldoni's former publicist Stephanie Jones and her agency Jonesworks LLC filed a lawsuit against him, his company Wayfarer, his current publicist Abel and crisis communications specialist Nathan in New York Dec. 24.



"Defendants Abel and Nathan secretly conspired for months to publicly and privately attack Jones and Jonesworks, to breach multiple contracts and induce contractual breaches, and to steal clients and business prospects," the lawsuit obtained by NBC New reads. "Behind Joness back, they secretly coordinated with Baldoni and Wayfarer to implement an aggressive media smear campaign against Baldonis film co-star, and then used the crisis as an opportunity to drive a wedge between Jones and Baldoni, and to publicly pin blame for this smear campaign on Joneswhen Jones had no knowledge or involvement in it."



Per Abel's LinkedIn profile, she worked at Jonesworks until last summer. The lawsuit alleges Abel and Nathan "continue to point the finger falsely at Jones now that their own misconduct is coming to light," and "defame and attack" her in the industry.



As for Baldoni and Wayfarer, who are no longer Jonesworks clients, the suit alleges they "repudiated their contractual obligations with Jonesworks and rebuffed Joness efforts to settle this dispute privately in arbitration."



E! News reached out to the defendants for comment.





Lively's attorneys told Variety in a Dec. 23 piece that they obtained the texts featured in The New York Times article via a subpoena to Jonesworks. Freedmanwho represents Nathan and Abel in addition to Baldoni and his Wayfarer associatesadded to the outlet none of his clients were subpoenaed over this topic and that he intends to sue Jones for releasing messages from Abels phone to Livelys attorneys.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement





Dec. 31, 2024: Baldoni, Wayfarer & Others Sue The New York Times

Baldoni, Wayfarer, Heath, Sarowitz, Nathan, TAG, Abel, RWA Communications, Wallace and Street Relations filed a lawsuit against The New York Times Dec. 31.



In the lawsuit obtained by E! News, The New York Times is accused of libel, false light invasion of privacy, promissory fraud and breach of implied-in-fact contract for its article about a retaliatory smear campaign the plaintiffs allegedly conducted against Lively after she voiced concerns about purported misconduct on set.



Saying the report was "false" and based on Livelys CRD complaint, the plaintiffs denied the accusations and alleged messages cited in the article and complaint were taken out of context.



Despite its claim to have 'reviewed these along with other documents[,]' the Times relied almost entirely on Livelys unverified and self-serving narrative," the lawsuit says, "lifting it nearly verbatim while disregarding an abundance of evidence that contradicted her claims and exposed her true motives."



They also allege "it was Lively, not Plaintiffs, who engaged in a calculated smear campaign." She has denied this.



The New York Times said it plans to "vigorously defend against the lawsuit."



The role of an independent news organization is to follow the facts where they lead, it stated to E!. Our story was meticulously and responsibly reported. It was based on a review of thousands of pages of original documents, including the text messages and emails that we quote accurately and at length in the article."





Dec. 31, 2024: Lively Files Lawsuit Against Baldoni and Wayfarer Associates

That same day, Lively filed a lawsuit against Baldoni, Wayfarer, Heath, Sarowitz, production entity It Ends With Us Movie LLC, Nathan, Nathan's company TAG and Abel in New York.



According to the court documents obtained by E! News, she is suing the defendants for sexual harassment; retaliation; failure to investigate, prevent and/or remedy harassment; aiding and abetting harassment and retaliation; breach of contract, intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligence infliction of emotional distress and false light invasion of privacy.



The allegations in the lawsuit were first detailed in the CRD complaint Lively filed earlier that month.



In response to the lawsuit Baldoni and his associates filed against The New York Timeswhich does not list Lively as a defendanther attorneys noted in a statement to E! that "nothing in this lawsuit changes anything about the claims" in her CRD and federal complaints.



"This lawsuit is based on the obviously false premise that Ms. Livelys administrative complaint against Wayfarer and others was a ruse based on a choice 'not to file a lawsuit against Baldoni, Wayfarer,' and that 'litigation was never her ultimate goal,'" they continued. "As demonstrated by the federal complaint filed by Ms. Lively earlier today, that frame of reference for the Wayfarer lawsuit is false."





Jan. 2, 2025: Baldoni's Lawyer Expresses Intent to Sue Lively

In Baldoni and his associates' lawsuit against The New York Times, the plaintiffs expressed that they are not done.



"There are other bad actors involved," the court documents state, "and make no mistakethis will not be the last lawsuit."



In a Jan. 2 interview with NBC News, Baldoni and Wayfarer's attorney Freedman said they "absolutely" plan to sue Lively.





Jan. 7, 2025: Baldoni's Lawyer Calls Out Deadpool & Wolverine

The headlines about Baldoni and Lively haven't stopped there.



For instance, social media users have speculated that her husband Reynolds trolled Baldoni in his movie Deadpool & Wolverine through the character Nicepool.



Reynolds has not publicly commented on the rumors; however, Baldoni's lawyer Freedman shared his reaction.



"What I make of that is that if your wife is sexually harassed, you don't make fun of Justin Baldoni," Freedman said during an interview on The Megyn Kelly Show posted to YouTube Jan 7. "You don't make fun of the situation. You take it very seriously. You file HR complaints. You raise the issue and you follow a legal process. What you don't do is mock the person and turn it into a joke."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement





Meanwhile, Lively's attorneys say there have been more "attacks" against her since her lawsuit.



"Ms. Livelys federal litigation before the Southern District of New York involves serious claims of sexual harassment and retaliation, backed by concrete facts," her lawyers said in a Jan. 7 statement to E! News. "This is not a 'feud' arising from 'creative differences' or a 'he said/she said' situation. As alleged in Ms. Livelys complaint, and as we will prove in litigation, Wayfarer and its associates engaged in unlawful, retaliatory astroturfing against Ms. Lively for simply trying to protect herself and others on a film set. And their response to the lawsuit has been to launch more attacks against Ms. Lively since her filing."



"While we go through the legal process, we urge everyone to remember that sexual harassment and retaliation are illegal in every workplace and in every industry," they added. "A classic tactic to distract from allegations of this type of misconduct is to 'blame the victim' by suggesting that they invited the conduct, brought it on themselves, misunderstood the intentions, or even lied. Another classic tactic is to reverse the victim and offender, and suggest that the offender is actually the victim."



Lively's lawyers said "these concepts normalize and trivialize allegations of serious misconduct." They also noted "media statements are not a defense" to her claims and that they'll prosecute her claims in court.





In response, Baldoni's lawyer Freedman told E!, "It is painfully ironic that Blake Lively is accusing Justin Baldoni of weaponizing the media when her own team orchestrated this vicious attack by sending the New York Times grossly edited documents prior to even filing the complaint."



"We are releasing all of the evidence which will show a pattern of bullying and threats to take over the movie," he added. "None of this will come as a surprise because consistent with her past behavior Blake Lively used other people to communicate those threats and bully her way to get whatever she wanted. We have all the receipts and more."



(E! and NBC News are both part of the NBCUniversal family).





Jan. 16, 2025: Baldoni, Wayfarer, Nathan & Abel File Lawsuit Against Lively, Reynolds & Others

Baldoni, Heath, Wayfarer, publicist Abel, crisis communication specialist Nathan and production entity It Ends With Us Movie LLC filed a lawsuit against Lively, Reynolds, her publicist Leslie Sloane and Sloane's firm Vision PR in New York Jan. 16.



According to the suit obtained by E! News, the plaintiffs accused all the defendants of civil extortion, defamation and false light invasion of privacy. As for Lively and Reynolds specifically, she is accused of breach of implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing, and they're both accused of intentional interference with contractual relations and economic advantage as well as negligent interference with prospective economic advantage.



In the suit, the plaintiffs denied Lively's allegations of sexual harassment and a retaliatory smear campaign against her. They also accused her of seizing control of It Ends With Us and working with Reynolds, Sloane, Jones and others to "tar and feather Plaintiffs in the press" after she received backlash for her marketing of the film. (Lively said in her filings she promoted the movie in accordance with Sony's marketing plan.) Plaintiffs allege in the lawsuit the defendants worked with The New York Times "to put out a blockbuster news report as devastating as it was false. The outlet stands by its report.



In part of a statement to E!, Freedman said, "Blake Lively was either severely misled by her team or intentionally and knowingly misrepresented the truth."









Jan. 16, 2025: Lively's Lawyers Slam Baldoni's "Desperate" Lawsuit

Lively's legal team called his lawsuit "another chapter in the abuser playbook," saying in a statement to E! News, "This is an age-old story: A woman speaks up with concrete evidence of sexual harassment and retaliation and the abuser attempts to turn the tables on the victim. This is what experts call DARVO. Deny. Attack. Reverse Victim Offender. " She further accused him of retaliating once she made allegations against him, saying Baldoni is trying to shift the narrative that Lively "seized creative control and alienated the cast from Mr. Baldoni." "The evidence will show," it continued, "that the cast and others had their own negative experiences with Mr. Baldoni and Wayfarer. The evidence will also show that Sony asked Ms. Lively to oversee Sonys cut of the film, which they then selected for distribution and was a resounding success." Her team went on to slam Baldoni's reaction to her allegations of harassment. "Their response to sexual harassment allegations: she wanted it, its her fault. Their justification for why this happened to her: look what she was wearing," her lawyers added. "In short, while the victim focuses on the abuse, the abuser focuses on the victim. The strategy of attacking the woman is desperate, it does not refute the evidence in Ms. Livelys complaint, and it will fail.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement





Jan. 21, 2025: Behind-the-Scenes Footage of It Ends With Us Released

Baldoni's legal counsel released behind-the-scenes footage from the filming of It Ends With Us, saying that the actor's actions in the video "clearly refute Ms. Livelys characterization" of him. "The scene in question was designed to show the two characters falling in love and longing to be close to one another," Baldoni's attorneys said in a statement. "Both actors are clearly behaving well within the scope of the scene and with mutual respect and professionalism." However, Lively's legal team believes the video "corroborates, to the letter, what Ms. Lively described" in her lawsuit and that "every moment of this was improvised by Mr. Baldoni with no discussion or consent in advance." "The video shows Ms. Lively leaning away and repeatedly asking for the characters to just talk," they told E! News in a statement. "Any woman who has been inappropriately touched in the workplace will recognize Ms. Livelys discomfort."





Jan. 22, 2025: Lively and Reynolds Seek Gag Order on Baldoni's Lawyer

The couple issued a letter to the judge overseeing their case, requesting that Freedmanthe head of Baldoni's counselbe placed under a gag order amid their legal proceedings to "avoid improper conduct."





Jan. 27, 2025: Baldoni's 2 AM Voice Memo to Lively Revealed

A seven-minute voice memo Baldoni allegedly sent to Lively during It Ends With Us' production was published online. In it, the director appeared to reference the movie's rooftop scene Lively had rewrote and how the changes were presented to him during an alleged meeting with Reynolds and their pal Taylor Swift. "We should all have friends like that aside from the fact that they're two of the most creative people on the planet," he told Lively. "The three of you guys together, it's unbelievable." In the recording, Baldoni also seemingly apologized to the actress for his lukewarm reception to her script, saying, "I f--ked up. One thing you should know about me is that I will admit and apologize when I fail."





Jan. 27, 2025: Lively vs. Baldoni Trial Set

One month after Lively filed a formal lawsuit against Baldoni, a court date was set for March 9, 2026.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement





Jan. 31, 2025: Baldoni Adds The New York Times to $400 Million Lawsuit

Baldonis team amended his Jan. 16 counterclaim to the U.S. District Court against Lively, Reynolds and Sloane to include The New York Times, according to documents obtained by E! News. In the amended document, Baldoni accused Lively and her team of spending months colluding and feeding falsehoods to the New York Times. The filingwhich is separate from the $250 million lawsuit against the NYTalleged that the newspaper cherry picked and altered communications stripped of necessary context and deliberately spliced to mislead.





Feb. 2, 2025: Baldonis Team Launches a Website

Baldoni created a website with information regarding his lawsuit against Lively containing the first amended complaint filed Jan. 31 by Baldonis team and a timeline of relevant events. Among the information in the latter document was alleged screenshots of texts exchanged between Lively, Reynolds and Baldoni. The websites launch came one month after Freedman said his team planned to release every single text message between the two. "We want the truth to be out there," Baldonis attorney told NBC News in a Jan. 2 interview. "We want the documents to be out there. We want people to make their determination based on receipts."





Feb. 18, 2025: Lively Files Her Own Amended Complaint

Livelys attorneys filed an amended complaint claiming that two other women who worked on It End had come forward feeling uncomfortable by Baldonis behavior on set. Ms. Lively was not alone in complaining about Mr. Baldoni, the complaint, obtained by E! News, claimed. The experiences of Ms. Lively and others were documented at the time they occurred starting in May of 2023. Importantly, and contrary to the entire narrative Defendants have invented, Mr. Baldoni acknowledged the complaints in writing at the time. He knew that women other than Ms. Lively also were uncomfortable and had complained about his behavior. The amended complaint did not name the two witnesses, whom Lively said would testify, due to the dangerous climate of threats, harassment, and intimidation fueled by the Defendants retaliation campaign. In a statement to E!, Freedman accused the complaint of being filled with unsubstantial hearsay and alleged that the unidentified persons were "clearly no longer willing to come forward or publicly support her claims.





Feb. 20, 2025: Lively and Reynolds Publicist Asks to Be Dropped From Lawsuit

After Baldoni accused Sloane of propagating malicious stories that portrayed him as a sexual predator as well as orchestrating a smear campaign under Livelys direction, Sloan filed a motional of dismissal from the lawsuit. In the documents obtained by E! News, Sloanes attorney alleged that there was no basis for the accusations made against their client and that she was simply dragged into the lawsuit as a smoke and mirrors exercise to distract from" Lively's accusations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement



For the latest breaking news updates, click here to download the E! News App
PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY)  A teenage boy has been injured after a shooting in Portsmouth on Wednesday afternoon, according to police.

Portsmouth police responded to a call for a shooting in the 3800 block of Towne Point Road at approximately 1 p.m.

Upon arrival, officers located a 15-year-old boy suffering from a gunshot wound that was not life-threatening. He was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Portsmouth Police Department is not searching for any suspects and investigating this incident as an accidental shooting. There are no further details at this time.

Continue to check WAVY.com for updates.

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.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI)  Johnson & Wales University (JWU) is laying off dozens of employees as it works to overcome serious financial challenges.

In a letter sent to faculty and staff Tuesday, JWU Chancellor Mim Runey explained that 91 positions will be eliminated and those impacted will be notified over the next few days. The layoffs impact both of JWUs campuses, which are located in Providence and Charlotte, North Carolina.

Runey said the overall reduction in workforce is necessary to address JWUs $34 million budget deficit. She believes the layoffs will align JWUs operational size with that of the current student population.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We simply cannot afford to be the size that we once were, and we believe this reduction will allow us to close the financial deficit and to move forward with a balanced budget, Runey wrote. Without changes to the core way the university operates, the deficit could continue to grow, creating an operational imbalance that would be very difficult to reverse.

Changes made now will mitigate the potential for a larger more severe impact in the future, she added.

SEE ALSO: JWU expands eligibility for free tuition initiative

Runey noted that JWU has taken intentional actions to address budget concerns while also investing in new endeavors over the last decade, including shuttering two of its campuses, selling underutilized real estate assets, consolidating programs, restructuring upper leadership, closing low-enrolled programs, eliminating open positions and streamlining university operations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This work has accelerated in recent years to stem the tide of mounting external factors, Runey said. Revenue from the sale of former campus buildings has helped to bolster the endowment, reduce overall debt, and cover deficits in the past three years budgets.

JWUs one-time cash reserves are now nearly depleted, according to Runey, meaning the university has no other choice but to shrink its workforce, which she explained is its largest operating expense.

We are at the beginning of a new journey, forged out of a moment of crisis, Runey said. We are seeing reasons for optimism in our current strategic direction, but the stark reality is that Johnson & Wales University must endure a rapid evolution into a different way of working.

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.

Follow us on social media:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

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.
How often have you had to take your trash home?

Three Kyodo News reporters -- Toma Mochizuki, Eduardo Martinez and Peter Masheter -- talk about a survey that found the biggest inconvenience cited by overseas tourists to Japan was the lack of trash bins. Listen as they discuss the reasons behind their absence and how other countries compare.

Article mentioned in the podcast:

Visitors to Japan most frustrated with lack of trash bins: survey

Kyodo News presents a bilingual podcast for English learners about the ins and outs of news writing and how to translate tricky Japanese phrases into English. Have fun listening to journalists discuss recent articles as they occasionally go off on unrelated tangents.

More podcast episodes:

Podcast [English World] Episode 95: New cycling fines in 2026

Podcast [English World] Episode 94: Osaka Expo opens despite some hiccups

Podcast [English World] Episode 93: Nintendo Switch 2 unveiled
GIRARD, Ohio (WKBN)  A man who police said had a history of violence and who led officers on a chase late last month before being apprehended by a department K-9 appeared in court Wednesday on the charges.

Read next: Construction accident floods some Poland village basements with raw sewage

Alvin Tucker Jr., of Youngstown, appeared in Girard Municipal Court for felony charges of resisting arrest and failure to comply, along with misdemeanor charges of speeding and driving without a license.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The charges stem from April 30, when officers with the Warren Police Department alerted Liberty Police that a vehicle involved in a chase would likely be entering their jurisdiction. Soon enough, an officer spotted the involved vehicle, a gold Chevrolet Caprice, in the area of Anderson Morris Road and state Route 11.

The car was driving around 102 mph in a 65 mph zone, according to the officer who registered the speed on a radar device.

Authorities identified the driver as Alvin Tucker, who reports state had nationwide felony warrants for his arrest and was listed as armed and dangerous, with a history of resisting arrest. Reports state Tucker allegedly threatened to shoot up a vehicle involving a victim of an ongoing case the week before.

A pursuit began, covering portions of state Route 711, Gypsy Lane, Dearborn Avenue, Dupont Street and Stransbury Drive. During the chase, which happened a bit before 6 p.m., police state multiple pedestrians and juveniles backed away from the road to ensure their safety from the speeding vehicle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The chase reached the intersection of Stransbury Drive and Sloan Avenue, at which point Tucker took a dirt service road into a wooded area, where he struck a large grass mound, damaging the vehicle, but managed to continue driving through an open field and finally only stopped when he reached a wooded tree line.

Tucker then exited the vehicle, and police on the scene said he reached into his waistband, leading them to assume he was reaching for a firearm.

Reports state the officer told Tucker, Police with a K-9, get on the ground, but he ran into the woods. K-9 Shelby was deployed and was able to apprehend Tucker by his lower leg as he was attempting to climb a chain link fence, the report stated.

Officers then placed Tucker in handcuffs. When asked why he had run, reports state Tucker told police he had warrants for his arrest.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He was taken to Mercy Health for treatment before he was booked into Trumbull County jail.

In court on Wednesday, Tuckers bond was set at $10,000.

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 kangaroo spotted hopping in the middle of a St. Cloud road earlier this week, stunning those who glimpsed the out-of-place marsupial, was later captured and taken to a nearby wildlife preserve.

The male kangaroo, now named Hickory as he was found along Old Hickory Tree Road, remained a mystery for two days, until officials found his owner.

Late Wednesday, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission said a 27-year-old man was charged with two second-degree misdemeanors related to the animals escape and the owners failure to have proper state permits. The owner also was given a warning for having an enclosure that did not meet the approved caging requirement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bryan Steven Castro Rendon had applied for a permit to possess class III wildlife for commercial use but that permit became active Tuesday  the day after the animal was spotted running loose, FWC said. Castro Rendon also had not claimed the permit when the kangaroo escaped, FWC said in an email.

The kangaroo will remain where it is until the owner improves his enclosure to meet state codes. A follow-up inspection is scheduled for next week, and the animal could be returned then, FWC said.

Officials with Amazing Animals, an exotic wildlife sanctuary, captured the kangaroo on Monday from a bush on the side of road and will keep him in its care for now, said CEO Brian Braitsch, who gave Hickory his name, in an email.

FOX35 Orlando captured video of the kangaroo hopping along the road, moving quickly with a large truck ahead of him. The station said the animal then went under a fence and into a field.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

FWC said that the animal was trapped later that day after it was chemically immobilized, the station reported. The agency also told the station Monday it was investigating where the kangaroo came from and noted that it had received multiple reports about the out-of-place animal.

The sighting baffled St. Cloud residents, who shared their surprise on social media.

Im not on drugs or anything, one woman wrote on Facebook. W-T-H is a Kangaroo in our neck of the woods? Watch you kids and animals.

Kangaroo loose in St. Cloud, Florida, a man wrote on the same post. . Thats just another Florida man story.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Amazing Animals is a nonprofit that is home to more than 100 exotic animals. The animal preserve opened in 2009 and houses capybaras, kinkajous, bobcats and more.

Now it has Hickory the kangaroo, at least temporarily.

We were one of the first on the scene when we got the call that a kangaroo was hopping around our area, Braitsch said. We quickly enacted our own animal escape protocols, and Im happy to say we were able to capture the animal within two hours.

St. Cloud isnt the only area with a sighting of the animal native to Australia.

Last February, residents of a Hillsborough County apartment complex reported a kangaroo in their pool area. After a Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office helicopter search, the animal was captured and returned to its owners who lived nearby.

In 2014, an Orlando area neighborhood had a kangaroo sighting. A woman walking in the Kingswood Manor subdivision near Lee Road spotted the animal hopping around the neighborhood and called 9-1-1. The kangaroo was captured and returned to its owners.
A Kansas City, Kansas, man was convicted by a jury Monday in a multi-vehicle police chase and assault of an officer in August, prosecutors say.

Brandon S. Alvis, 32, was convicted on three counts of aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer and one count of flee or attempt to elude, according to a Leavenworth County attorney news release.

Around 2:40 a.m., a Tonganoxie police officer tried to conduct a traffic stop of Alvis vehicle near State Avenue and Main Street. Alvis fled and was followed by a Leavenworth County Sheriffs deputy near 166th Street and State Avenue, according to the news release. Alvis then ran a red light and turned onto 158th Street, where he was pursued by a Basehor officer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When Alvis got to 156th Street, he swerved and headed toward the Basehor officers vehicle and continued onto 110th Street where he then drove at a Leavenworth County deputys patrol car. Both law enforcement officials were able to evade Alvis vehicle, and the deputy pursued him onto Interstate 70 where speeds reached around 116 mph, according to the release.

The chase ended when Alvis exited onto 78th street in Kansas City, Kansas, hit a median and lost the front left wheel. Alvis then fled on foot and was captured, according to the release.

In a statement in the release, Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson said, Running from the police is never a good idea. Doing so can quickly escalate into a tragedy, placing yourself and others at risk. Even if youre not caught on the scene, you will likely be found.

The Star has reported extensively on car chases involving dozens of police departments across the Kansas City metro where officers are allowed to pursue cars for any violation at any time. Over 320 people have been injured in the past five years, and at least nine have died.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A 29-year-old mother has been convicted after pleading no contest to charges stemming from a pursuit last year in northeast Kansas that ended in a crash, killing her 1-year-old.

Maria C. Papalas pleaded no contest on Tuesday in Atchison County District Court to amended charges: one count of second-degree murder and two counts of aggravated child endangerment. The remaining charges were dismissed.

The events leading to the deadly crash happened around 5:30 p.m. on Aug. 25, 2024. According to a statement from the Atchison County Sheriffs Office at the time, a deputy was trying to stop a car that reportedly matched the description of a vehicle that left the scene of a crash in the city of Atchison.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

City of Gardner gives residents at apartment complex 48 hours to move

The deputy spotted the car near Sherman Road and 244th Road, pulled the car over and tried to talk to the driver, later identified as Papalas, but the sheriffs office said she sped away.

The sheriffs office said at the time that the deputy did not notice any other passengers in the vehicle.

The deputy followed the car south on Sherman Road but soon found that it drove off the road and rolled multiple times.

According to the sheriffs office, Papalas removed her injured 1-year-old child from the back seat of the car. The child, later identified as Mixalis Papalas-Schultz, was taken to a hospital, where he died two days later.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

FOX4 has reached out to an attorney representing Papalas for comment on the case.

A sentencing hearing is set for June 24.

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.
TOPEKA (KSNT)  The new leader for Kansas state parks is settling into his role this week.

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) announced on Tuesday, May 7 in a press release that Conner OFlannagan will serve as the new state parks director. He joined the KDWP in 2019 and has spent time in numerous leadership roles.

Laura Clawson with the KDWP said OFlannagan will oversee operations taking place at Kansas 29 state parks which bring in more than seven million visitors per year. He is taking over for Linda Lanterman who served as the state parks director for more than 30 years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I am eager to guide Kansas State Parks toward a future defined by sustainability, operational excellence, and enhanced public engagement, OFlannagan said. Our parks are treasured spaces, providing outdoor recreation and natural beauty for Kansans and visitors alike. I look forward to working with our talented team and stakeholders to ensure these spaces thrive for generations to come.

A photo of Conner OFlannagan. He will be the new director of Kansas 29 state parks. (Photo Courtesy/KDWP)

Kansas parks shut down amid federal staffing shortage

OFlannagan holds a masters degree in park, recreation and tourism management from Clemson University. He also has experience with managing park operations, developing staff and securing grant funds to improve parks and outdoor spaces.

Conners deep understanding of park management, his ability to bring people together, and his dedication to sustainability and accessibility make him the right person to lead Kansas State Parks into the next chapter, said KDWP Secretary Christopher Kennedy. His vision aligns with our commitment to preserving natural resources while enhancing outdoor experiences for the people of Kansas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For more Kansas Outdoors, 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.
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW)  Almost a dozen childrens programs will share $50,000 from United Way of the Plains.

The money for south-central Kansas is part of the annual Dwane L. Wallace Youth Venture Grant, which is partly funded by an endowment established by Velma Lunt Wallace to honor her late husband, Dwane L. Wallace, former head of Cessna Aircraft and community advocate.

First measles case reported in Sedgwick County

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The money goes to school-based programs that uplift and empower local youth through impactful initiatives.

2025 Dwane Wallace Youth Venture microgrant recipients:

Bus bucks, USD 259 Wichita Public Schools, $7,000

CMA Robotics, Christa McAuliffe Academy K-8, USD 259 Wichita Public Schools, $3,000

Field trips, 5th and 6th grades, USD 373 Newton Public Schools, $1,860

Fresh fruit for students, USD 439 Sedgwick Public Schools, $2,340

Head Start nutritious food and meals, Cooper Early Education Center, USD 373 Newton Public Schools, $3,000

Medicine Lodge Grade School Truancy Prevention Program, USD 254 Medicine Lodge Public Schools, $2,300

Summer Enrichment Program, Oxford Elementary, USD 358 Oxford Public Schools, $7,000

Healthy snacks for students, USD 311 Pretty Prairie Public Schools $7,000

STEALTH Afterschool Program, USD 259 Wichita Public Schools, $7,500

Valley Center High School Food Pantry, USD 262 Valley Center Public Schools, $7,000

Youth-Centric Mandarin Extension Program for Impactful Linguistic Education, The Independent School, $2,000

Medicine Lodge Public Schools Truancy Prevention Program (Courtesy United Way of the Plains) Pretty Prairie Public Schools Wellness Wednesday Healthy Food Program (Courtesy United Way of the Plains) Wichita Public Schools Stealth Healthy Food Program and Bus Bucks Good Behavior Program (Courtesy United Way of the Plains)

This microgrant program provides an opportunity for teachers and schools to support youth and inspire the next generation, carrying on the legacy left by Dwane Wallace, Logan Bradshaw, United Way of the Plains director of community impact, said in a news release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Click here to learn more about the program and to apply for future grants.

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 KSN-TV.
Kristen Wheeler, chairwoman of the Kansas Board of Tax Appeals, tells the Kansas House General Government Budget Committee about the need for additional funding to manage increased tax appeals and to alleviate staff shortages. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from Kansas Legislature video)

TOPEKA  The COVID-19 pandemic, staff turnover and surges in filings created a backlog of cases at the Kansas Board of Tax Appeals, challenging the organizations ability to meet statutory requirements for timely rulings.

County appraisers have seen increased delays in resolving some tax appeals, and although they dont blame BOTA employees who are working to clear delays, they are concerned about the effects on taxpayers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Given that high property taxes are a major concern for Kansans, this remains a highly sensitive matter for all parties involved, said Douglas County appraiser Brad Eldridge. Providing timely due process in property tax cases is essential, yet it requires additional funding, creating the difficult reality that ensuring fairness and efficiency comes at the cost of more taxpayer dollars.

In January 2025 budget testimony to the Legislature, BOTA chair Kristen Wheeler said in Fiscal Year 2024, the board saw an increase of about 700 cases in its Regular Division, as well as an additional 300 cases in its exemption tax appeals and 300 cases in its property tax appeals.

The BOTA comprises the Regular Division, in which cases are heard by an appointed, three-member board, and the Small Claims and Expedited Claims Division, which offers informal, faster processes.

More than 11 different kinds of tax appeals are heard by BOTAs board or staff, from property tax exemption requests to homeowners upset about their property taxes and unable to resolve the issue at the county level.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Jonathan Roberts, BOTA executive director, said they receive as many as 50 or 60 requests for tax exemption appeals every day.

It takes at the minimum a half-hour to hear each of those requests, he said. When you start to compound those, it creates a monumental task to get through every one. Its just a matter of the requests coming in exceed the time available to hear them.

Adding resources

During the legislative budget process, the state board requested and received $30,000 to hire contract employees to help get caught up. BOTA also asked for $25,000 to increase attorney salaries because they currently are below what their peers receive for similar work. A long-term vacant position contributed to delays.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Board is currently recruiting to fill a vacant staff attorney position; the Board would note that position has been posted since the fall and to date, despite active advertising, the Board has yet to have a single applicant, the budget request said. The Board notes the starting salary for that position is below other starting-level attorney positions advertised for other state entities.

Roberts said a new information technology system being installed is expected to help with processing.

Were engaging in some things within the office to help with workflow and things like that, but given the sheer number of some of the cases that we have in front of us, its not going to clear them all up right away, Roberts said.

Depending on the cases, the board faces statutory requirements regarding the time to hear and decide cases. In small claims, cases must be heard within 60 days of filing and decided within 30 days after that. So far, BOTA staff have been able to meet that deadline, Roberts said. In the Regular Division, the board must render a decision after a hearing within 14 days, although requirements vary depending on the case.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In testimony, BOTA reported the percent of 14-day summary decisions issued timely in the Regular Division, with a goal of 100%. After three years of missing that goal, the organization is moving back on track.

In FY2019 and FY2020, BOTA issued decisions within 14 days 100% of the time. In FY2021, they dropped to 93%, and in subsequent years 91%, 90% and 99%. BOTA reports 100% for FY2025 so far.

Lucky DeFries, a Topeka tax attorney who has been trying cases in front of the board since the late 1970s, said his clients havent faced significant delays. He and opposing counsel often reach agreement in the case, so it moves through the system quickly.

DeFries remembers when there were 58 employees at BOTA. Today, there are 16 when theyre fully staffed, he said, noting the retirement of a longtime attorney and another staff member on medical leave.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Weve seen across the country steady increases in the valuation of residential property. Thats where a lot of the appeals come from, DeFries said. The numbers of employees have gone down precipitously and the case load has either increased or stayed pretty static.

County impact

The delay in hearing tax appeals affects county operations statewide. Eldridge said the slow process consumes time and financial resources. The challenges began during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Schedule delays were a result of hearing cancellations in 2020, Eldridge said. In 2020-2021, there was turnover in BOTA positions, and they went several months without having a full board to hold hearings. BOTA essentially did not hold any Regular Division hearings for about one year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If BOTA finds in favor of the individual, organization or business in a tax appeal, the county must refund any taxes that were paid, based on that appeal. Eldridge said interest is paid on refunds, with the percentage varying depending on the year the appeal was filed.

In Crawford County, Jan Meredith, office supervisor, handles tax exemptions. Like Eldridge, she understands the issues that have been delaying tax appeals and is sympathetic. Still, she doesnt recall delays as long as they have been in the past two to three years.

Tax appeals filed in 2023 have recently come through the system and been cleared, she said, and that puts her small county near to caught up. Meredith tells taxpayers filing an appeal that it likely will take four to six months until they receive decisions from BOTA, so any appeals filed in the past six months she doesnt consider delayed.

Larger counties tend to see a more significant impact. In its budget report, BOTA said most of its small claims appeals in FY2024 were received from Johnson County (576), Morris County (345), Sedgwick County (448) and Wyandotte County (608).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Douglas County has matters before the Regular Division of BOTA going back to 2021 that are scheduled to be heard this year, Eldridge said.

In Johnson County, spokeswoman Anne Christiansen-Bullers said appeals go back more than seven years.

The Kansas Board of Tax Appeals has approximately 1,500-1,600 pending appeals involving property in Johnson County for tax years 2018-2024, she said.

Tough to determine

Its difficult to determine exactly how far behind tax appeals are, said Terri Yamashita, BOTA board secretary. More complex cases, which are often appeals over large tax amounts owed or commercial cases, sometimes have multiple attorneys involved and many filings.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For instance, in the regular hearing division where cases go before the BOTA, commercial business owners often want to get their own appraisals done, she said. That can cause delays. BOTA staff normally try to schedule a hearing within at least five months of the filing, but it could be seven to eight months, depending on the case.

Some cases lingering in the system are delayed because parties dont get the proper information submitted or for reasons out of BOTAs control, Yamashita said. Each type of tax appeal has different statutory requirements to meet.

The number of appeals asking for tax exemptions is one of the more challenging areas, although those dont have to go to a full board hearing, she said. Exemptions and the majority of tax grievances dont go to full hearings but are managed in the small claims division.

Grievances include cases that are about clerical errors or penalties that have been assessed on someone who didnt file taxes on time, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Those issues absorb staff time. BOTA recently contracted with an additional staff person to help clear exemption cases. In testimony, the BOTA board said that its hearings of Regular Division cases suffer when they receive influxes of small claims cases because staff attorneys shift to do that work.

Not only do these staff attorneys have less time and resources available to work on other matters, but they are unavailable or difficult to schedule to assist with Regular Division hearings, the testimony said. Undoubtedly these factors all contribute to greater than necessary resolution times for matters in the Regular Division.
Karen Reads second trial in connection with the death of her boyfriend, Boston Police officer John OKeefe, continued on Wednesday in Dedhams Norfolk Superior Court before Judge Beverly Cannone.

On Tuesday, jurors heard from a slew of witnesses, including a retired Canton Police lieutenant, a Massachusetts State Police lieutenant and a meteorologist. Prosecutors will call their next witness when the trial resumes Wednesday at 9 a.m.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

People to know:

Hank Brennan, special prosecutor for the Norfolk County District Attorneys office

Jessica Hyde, digital forensics expert

Connor Keefe, Massachusetts State Police trooper

David Yannetti, lawyer for Read

12:26 p.m. - Hos long to die in cold search occurred at 6:24 a.m.

After a lengthy back and forth that included several sidebars and objections from Robert Alessi, an attorney for Read, Hyde said her opinion to a reasonable degree of scientific certainty was that the hos long to die in cold search happened at 6:24 a.m.

Brennan had asked her the question twice before Hyde could answer, as Alessi continued objecting. After one objection, Brennan asked Hyde a series of questions about her methodology and whether it was accepted in the field

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The hos long to die in cold search was the final action in the specific tab, Hyde said.

11:33 a.m. - Prosecution forensics expert testifies about hos long to die in cold search

Hydes testimony began with an explanation of her credentials and experience. She said she runs a company that provides digital forensics training and teaches at George Mason University.

In the Read case, Hyde was asked to examine the deletion of data, including phone calls, on a key witnesss phone. The witness, Jennifer McCabe, was with Read when she found OKeefes body.

An extraction of McCabes phone showed she searched hos long to die in cold at 2:27 a.m. Prosecutors have disputed the timestamp.

Hyde said the timestamp reflected the most current search in the tab opened at 2:27 a.m. A new tab was opened at that time, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its not about the time it was searched, its about the time the browser tab you opened either went to the background ... or the current search, she explained.

Hyde said she used both Cellebrite and Magnet Forensics to conduct her examination in the case. The jury heard from Ian Whiffin, a Cellebrite employee, last week.

It would be erroneous to assume the 2:27 a.m. timestamp reflects the time hos long to die in the cold was actually searched, she said.

11:20 a.m. - Cannone excludes Maryland court decision

After an extra-long recess, Cannone returned to the bench and ruled against Reads defense in their effort to introduce a Maryland court decision.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Attorney Robert Alessi sought to introduce the decision as a way to essentially undermine the credibility of a prosecution digital forensics expert, Jessica Hyde.

Cannone found none of the purposes in a Massachusetts rule of criminal procedure were served by including the decision, noting specifically the late notice to the court. She said Alessi would be free to cross-examine Hyde regarding her methodology.

Brennan subsequently called Hyde to the stand.

10:32 a.m. - Lawyers spar over prosecution forensics expert

With Keefe off the stand and the jury out of the room, Robert Alessi, a lawyer for Read, sought to introduce a Maryland courts ruling determining a prosecution expert was not reliable into evidence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The expert, Jessica Hyde, is expected to testify on Wednesday about a 2:27 a.m. timestamp on a Google search on a key witness phone. Alessi said he was not trying to keep out any of Hydes testimony but simply to cross-examine her about the Maryland decision.

Cannone appeared frustrated that the defense did not provide more notice.

Her testimony on 2:27 is not reliable, Alessi said.

But Brennan said the defense was trying to malign a witness.

They want to say another court rejected something about you, therefore the jury should reject something, he said, accusing the defense of trying to cheapen Hydes testimony.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Maryland decision was not relevant and had nothing to do with Reads case, he argued.

But Alessi said he was entitled to cross-examine Hyde about her reliability, particularly on an issue where another court determined she was not reliable.

Its basic cross of an expert witness, he said.

Cannone said she would try and rule on whether the decision could be used for cross-examination during the morning recess, but said she may need more time.

9:39 a.m. - Yannetti cross-examines Keefe

Yannetti began his questioning, focused on Keefe obtaining Jennifer McCabes phone. He specifically homed in on the consent form McCabe signed, turning over her cell phone to State Police.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Keefe also faced a line of questioning about his role in the investigation. He confirmed former Trooper Michael Proctor was the lead investigator.

Proctor has since been fired for misconduct during the investigation into OKeefes death.

Keefe attended at least one witness interview and retrieved surveillance footage, but said Proctor wrote reports on the interview and the footage. He confirmed he was the only member of the detective unit who attended OKeefes autopsy.

He confirmed he gave the medical examiner information during the autopsy based on the facts they had gathered at that point. Critically, the medical examiner did not rule OKeefes death a homicide.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Yannetti concluded his cross there.

9:22 a.m. - Keefe shows jury key evidence

Keefe works in the homicide unit assigned to the district attorneys office. Hes also a digital forensics examiner.

He performed the forensic extractions on Jennifer McCabe and Kerry Roberts phones. McCabe and Roberts were with Read when she found OKeefes body.

Keefe was at 34 Fairview Road while the State Police Special Emergency Response Team conducted their search on the night of Jan. 29, 2022. He said his primary role was to log anything the team found into evidence.

On the stand, Keefe cut open an evidence bag sealed with red tape and pulled out OKeefes sneaker. The sneaker is a black and white Nike shoe.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Keefe also showed the jury several pieces of red plastic taillight found at 34 Fairview Road after OKeefes death. When Brennan moved to put the taillight pieces into evidence, David Yannetti, a lawyer for Read, objected and asked to be heard at sidebar.

Inside an evidence bag, Keefe pulled out two large pieces of red taillight, but also a small chip that had to be marked separately. Keefe also retrieved two clear pieces of taillight from a different brown paper bag.

9:08 a.m. - Court opens

As almost all of the trial days do, Wednesday began with a sidebar conversation between the lawyers and the judge without the jury in the room. Throughout the trial, Read has joined the sidebars, a change from most of the pretrial proceedings.

When the jury was brought in, Cannnone asked the panel if they had been able to follow her instructions about discussing the case and avoiding media coverage.

Each juror said they had.

Read, 45, is charged with second-degree murder in the death of OKeefe, who was found outside the home of a fellow Boston police officer in Canton on Jan. 29, 2022.

Norfolk County prosecutors say Read struck OKeefe with her SUV while driving intoxicated. Reads attorneys say her car never struck OKeefe and that others are to blame for his death.

Karen Read murder case

Read the original article on MassLive.
Senior Trump adviser Kari Lake announced that shed struck a deal with One America News to blast the right-wing channels pro-Trump propaganda out to the audience of Voice of America, making it clear what her intentions are for the government-run radio network.

United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM) is excited to announce a partnership with One America News Network (OAN) to provide newsfeed services to USAGM networks, including Office of Cuba Broadcasting (OCB), Radio Marti, and Voice of America (VOA), Lake posted Tuesday on social media.

Noting that OAN was offering their newsfeed and video service free-of-charge, Lake acknowledged that while she may not have editorial control over VOA content in her role as senior adviser to the agency, she can ensure our outlets have reliable and credible options as they work to craft their reporting and news programs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And every day I look for ways to save American taxpayers money. Bringing in OAN as a video/news source does both, she added. OAN is one of the few family-owned American media networks left in the United States. We are grateful for their generosity.

Lake did not immediately respond to requests for comment. OAN President Charles Herring, who also retweeted the Trump officials post about the partnership, told The Independent that Ms. Lake provided a complete summary.

Presidential adviser Kari Lake is looking to fulfill a court order to restore Voice of America to the airwaves by filling the broadcasts with OAN content. (AP)

The new partnership with one of the presidents most loyal media outlets comes just days after Lake informed VOA staffers that she would be implementing a structured return-to-office plan.

We look forward to working with you all, she wrote on Friday to the workforce she had sidelined in March.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A day after Lakes email, which was triggered after a federal judge halted the Trump administrations efforts to shut down VOA, an appellate court complicated matters by pausing the lower courts ruling. At the same time, the appeals court did state that it was leaving in place the judges ruling that the government must reinstate VOAs statutorily required programming levels.

It would appear that Lake is looking to use OAN to fill that void now, which has left current and former staff enraged.

Kari Lake providing One America News Network to our global audiences makes a mockery of the agency's history of independent non-partisan journalism, former United States Agency for Global Media Chief Financial Officer Grant Turner told NPR.

I don't think this complies with our statutory mandate and I don't think audiences will take to it, he added. The truth has a certain feel and audiences can sense that.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

VOA White House bureau chief Patsy Widakuswara and press freedom editor Jessica Jerreat, who are part of the group of employees who sued Lake and the administration for violating the law by trying to shutter the network, also criticized the OAN announcement.

Congress mandated VOA to report reliable and authoritative news, not outsource its journalism to outlets aligned with the president's agenda, they said in a joint statement to The Independent. VOA already has talented and professional journalists ready to tell America's story in line with the VOA Charter, but we are blocked from our own newsroom. That is why we will continue fighting for our rights in court.

While the journalists remain sidelined following the presidents mid-March executive order, which prompted Lake to silence the networks broadcasts and place the entire workforce on indefinite leave, staffers told NPR that the government has started bringing some VOA employees back.

Voice of Americas broadcasts could soon feature digraced former GOP congressman and one-time Trump attorney general pick, who was recently hired by the MAGA network as a primetime host. (One America News)

According to three Voice of America staffers who remain on forced leave, the agency asked a small number of journalists back on Tuesday. At the same time, contractors are beginning to receive termination notices, NPR reported. Additionally, two sources corroborated this account to The Independent.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the appellate courts ruling, which Lake celebrated as a BIG WIN, two Trump-appointed judges said the lower court overstepped its bounds and that the dispute over VOA should be settled through administrative processes before any legal action is taken. The lone dissenter, an Obama-appointed judge, argued that it wasnt within the presidents authority to dismantle VOA.

At the same time, the government has not objected to the lower courts ruling that required VOA programming to be returned to the airwaves, an order that the appeals court upheld. It would now appear that Lake plans to use the MAGA conspiracy channel to fulfill those obligations.

OAN, which has been booted from nearly every major cable and satellite subscription service, was one of the biggest purveyors of Trumps baseless conspiracy theories that the 2020 election was stolen from him.

The network has settled multiple defamation lawsuits over its promotion of falsehoods about the 2020 election, which includes voting software company Smartmatic, two election workers in Georgia, and a former executive for voting machine firm Dominion. OAN is still facing a defamation case from Dominion, which the outlet baselessly accused of rigging the election for Joe Biden.

Despite the network being nearly impossible to find on cable airwaves, OAN has seen its profile rise after Trumps return to office. While its reporters have been featured more prominently in press briefings and gaggles at the White House, Matt Gaetz  the presidents disgraced initial pick for attorney general  serves as one of the channels primetime hosts.
BEIJING, May 6 (Xinhua) -- China's Ministry of Culture and Tourism has issued an emergency notice demanding strengthened safety measures in the cultural and tourism sector across the country following a fatal boat capsize accident in Guizhou Province.

The accident, which occurred on May 4, left 10 people dead and 70 others injured.

The notice instructs local authorities to tighten the safety management of large-scale performances and conduct thorough inspections of critical facilities, including cableways, amusement rides, specialized vehicles and tourist boats.

Travel agencies must adhere strictly to regulations for chartered tourist transport services, the notice stipulates.

It emphasizes the importance of reinforcing fire safety measures at high-density venues, prioritizing the identification of unauthorized electricity use and obstructed emergency exits. Scenic-area management authorities should enhance their fire prevention efforts and strictly regulate open flames in outdoor areas.

Additionally, the ministry has urged the intensified monitoring of and response to extreme weather conditions, requiring the timely issuance of warnings and implementation of emergency plans.

Operators must suspend services and close attractions if safety conditions deteriorate, according to the document. 
Longtime Republican strategist Karl Rove criticized Beto ORourke as one of the Democratic Partys lesser lights after ORourke said his fellow Democrats are lazy.

Rove joined Fox Newss Americas Newsroom on Tuesday, bringing out his whiteboard to criticize the Texas Democrat. ORourke slammed Democratic leadership as lazy on a different broadcast over the weekend.

I think our party unfortunately has gotten lazy and overly enamored of seven so-called battleground or blue wall states to the detriment of Alabama and Mississippi and Texas and Louisiana, ORourke said on MSNBC. Those are our fellow Americans, too. And I dont blame them for saying, Hey, the Democratic Party hasnt been showing up for me, and listening to me, fighting for me.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fox host Bill Hemmer asked Rove what he thought about ORourkes statement. Rove pointed to his whiteboard, which showed ORourkes failed campaigns, including for a Senate seat, for governor race and a 2020 presidential bid.

Well, I dont recognize that guy. I do recognize a guy named Robert Francis ORourke, and lets remember his record: He lost a Senate race in Texas, his presidential campaign imploded because of over amount of naval gazing, and he lost the governors race. Rove said.

So what hes recommending is that the Democrats prioritize Mississippi and Alabama. Good luck on that. Theres going to be no chance in our lifetime to turn those states blue, he continued.

Rove noted the Democratic Party is in bad shape and has to begin anew, similar to what several Democrats have said. He argued that the question will be whom will the Democratic Party follow next, whether it be Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), a left wing candidate who didnt work in the recent election, or someone else.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rove criticized ORourke and other Democrats, including Texas Rep. Jasmine Crockett, who he said are trying to use the partys uncertainty to their advantage.

So, well see how the Democrats sort this all out. But right now, its a circular firing squad led by, in my mind, people like ORourke  and Jasmine Crockett, for Gods sake, Rove said. I mean, were talking about the lesser lights of the Democratic Party who are attempting to use this moment to try and shine a little bit more light on them and advance their own political careers at the expense of the party.

As the Democratic Party grapples with its brutal 2024 election losses and how to stand against the Trump administration, some strong voices have emerged, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.). Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D), who ran alongside former Vice President Kamala Harris in the recent election.

Many of those Democrats have opted for town hall events or rallies across the country to generate enthusiasm as Americans grow frustrated with the Trump administration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

ORourkes remarks on MSNBC over the weekend follow those from a town hall he held in Texas. He said he would run for Senate again in Texas if voters in the state wanted him to.

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.
As Princess Charlotte turns 10, Kate Middleton and Prince William remain mindful of the royal path ahead for their daughter.

There are thorny questions ahead for Charlotte and her parents as they navigate the complexities of her unique position. Being the spare to Prince George, the future heir, is a vulnerable place  one fraught with potential pitfalls that her uncle Prince Harry, who also grew up as the spare, has made all too clear.

"The late Queen [Elizabeth] was always very conscious of that extraordinary and challenging role of the No. 2," royal biographer Robert Hardman, author of The Making of a King, tells PEOPLE in this week's exclusive cover story.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Thats why she had a particular soft spot for [her sister] Margaret, for [her son] Andrew and Harry. She understood being second place in a strictly hierarchical family and institution has its challenges," he says. "Everyone is conscious of that."

Chris Jackson/Getty Princess Charlotte and Prince George travel by carriage at Troping the Colour on June 15, 2024 in London. Princess Charlotte and Prince George travel by carriage at Troping the Colour on June 15, 2024 in London.

Related: Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis Make Rare Appearance for Historic VE Day Outing

Especially William, Hardman adds, who regards one of his most important duties as not just "preparing to be King himself but to make the whole royal existence approachable and not scary for all his children." The Prince and Princess of Wales are parents to Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, who turned 10 on May 2, and Prince Louis, 7.

In his memoir Spare, Prince Harry reflects candidly on the pain and identity struggles tied to his role as the spare in the royal family.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I was the shadow, the support, the Plan B. I was brought into the world in case something happened to Willy," he wrote.

Yui Mok - WPA Pool/Getty Images Prince William and Prince Harry on July 1, 2021 in London, England. Prince William and Prince Harry on July 1, 2021 in London, England.

He shared that being the spare led to tension and rivalry with his brother, William, and moments where he felt dismissed or devalued.

"My family had declared me a nullity. The Spare. I didnt complain about it, but I didnt need to dwell on it either. Far better, in my mind, not to think about certain facts... But no one gave a damn whom I traveled with; the Spare could always be spared," he wrote.

Looking ahead, Charlotte could one day be bestowed the title of princess royal  following in the footsteps of her great-aunt Princess Anne, 74.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Though the title is ultimately the monarchs to give, Charlotte could still choose to decline it.

Chris Jackson/Getty Kate Middleton and Princess Charlotte watch the military procession to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day on May 5, 2025 in London. Kate Middleton and Princess Charlotte watch the military procession to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day on May 5, 2025 in London.

Related: Happy Birthday, Princess Charlotte! All About Kate Middleton and Prince William's 10-Year-Old Daughter

"People wonder why the Queen didnt make Prince Philip prince consort. Well, he didnt want it," Hardman points out.

Adds a royal insider: "It could either be seen as an antiquated title or something steeped in history that they will want to respect."

As William and Kate, who marked their 14th wedding anniversary on April 29 with a visit to Scotland, navigate the delicate balance between royal duty and family life, the future of their children, particularly Charlotte, remains a path of immense potential.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Getting the family right is absolutely critical, particularly in terms of what the nation expects of them," says a family friend.

PEOPLE Magazine, May 19, 2025.

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

From the start, Charlotte has made history. Born May 2, 2015, she was the first female royal not to lose her place in the line of succession to a younger brother, thanks to the Succession to the Crown Act 2013.

As the only daughter of Prince William, 42, and Princess Kate, 43, and now third in line to the throne, shes grown up at the center of a monarchy in transition: shaped by crisis, modernization and the careful choices of two parents determined to do things differently.



Today, Charlotte is being raised by William and Kate to "strike a balance between private life and duty," a source says.

Read the original article on People
Kate Middleton had clear instructions for Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis during their latest appearance on the Buckingham Palace balcony.

On May 5, Princess Kate and Prince William brought their children  George, 11, Charlotte, 10, and Louis, 7  to the military procession and flypast at Buckingham Palace commemorating the 80th anniversary of VE Day later this week. It was a surprise public appearance for the Wales children and their first official royal outing of the year.

At one point during the balcony appearance just before the flypast happened, Kate directed the three children's attention upward.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Eyes to the sky," the Princess of Wales, 43, said, lip reader Nicola Hickling told Hello! magazine.

Chris Jackson/Getty Prince George, Prince Louis, Kate Middleton and Princess Charlotte watch the flypast from the balcony of Buckingham Palace on May 5, 2025. Prince George, Prince Louis, Kate Middleton and Princess Charlotte watch the flypast from the balcony of Buckingham Palace on May 5, 2025.

The lip reader said that Princess Kate had something else to say to her youngest son. "When the flypast comes, you will see it smoke blue, white and red," she told Louis, who was immediately intrigued.

"Look at the [back/black] one, they have lots of tanks," Prince Louis said and pointed to the planes.

Neil Mockford/GC Images Prince William, Prince George, Prince Louis, Kate Middleton and Princess Charlotte on the balcony of Buckingham Palace during the military procession to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day on May 5, 2025 in London. Prince William, Prince George, Prince Louis, Kate Middleton and Princess Charlotte on the balcony of Buckingham Palace during the military procession to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day on May 5, 2025 in London.

The flypast was performed by the RAF Red Arrows, and King Charles' team shared footage of the soaring scene in a video shared to X.

Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis were on their best behavior during the tribute, where they joined their parents and King Charles, Queen Camilla, Princess Anne, Prince Edward, Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh and more family members.

 More from VE Day celebrations at The Queen Victoria Memorial and the balcony of Buckingham Palace #VEDay80 pic.twitter.com/bAf7rtpQfp  The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) May 5, 2025

Princess Kate's conversation with her children wasn't the only comment that cameras caught between her family that day, as Prince Louis also reportedly shared a cheeky comment during the military march before the flypast.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Prince and Princess of Wales had a front-row seat to the action with their three children, where they sat in a box at the Queen Victoria Memorial to watch 1,300 members of the Armed Forces process in honor of those who served in World War II.

"Wasn't this supposed to be fun?" Louis asked William, Hickling told The Sun.

According to the lip reader, the royal dad replied, "It is, son."

The Prince of Wales then explained the machinations of the parade and underlined to his son that it was important to pay attention.

Toby Melville - WPA Pool/Getty Prince Louis and Prince William attend a military procession to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day on May 5, 2025 in London. Prince Louis and Prince William attend a military procession to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day on May 5, 2025 in London.

"It's not going to be long, and I want you to be taking an interest," William told Louis, who at one point pulled on his RAF No.1 uniform in a playful moment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That wasn't all, either  Hickling said that Princess Kate gushed about her husband during the parade.

"Doesn't Papa look smart today?" Kate asked Charlotte, referring to William in uniform.

Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Kate Middleton, Princess Charlotte, Prince George, Prince Louis and Prince William attend a military procession to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day on May 5, 2025 in London. Kate Middleton, Princess Charlotte, Prince George, Prince Louis and Prince William attend a military procession to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day on May 5, 2025 in London.

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

The Prince and Princess of Wales recently celebrated 14 years of marriage on April 29 and spent their anniversary working on a trip to the Scottish Isles of Mull and Iona.



Princess Kate has been intentional about balancing royal duty and normalcy as she raises her children.

Kate has the reins of power in a very subtle way. She has very strong views, royal author Ingrid Seward tells PEOPLE in this week's exclusive cover story.

Read the original article on People
Editors note: Officials confirmed the boat to be a canoe, rather than a kayak, which had been previously reported.

LAKE WALES, Fla. (WFLA)  A woman in a canoe died Tuesday after being attacked by an alligator at Lake Kissimmee State Park, authorities said.

The Polk County Sheriffs Office was called to assist the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) shortly after 4 p.m.

3 bears killed, DNA samples sent off following deadly attack in South Florida

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Deputies said two people were in a canoe at the state park when one of them was attacked. The circumstances surrounding the attack largely remained unclear.

However, the FWC later confirmed to NBC affiliate WESH that the victim went into the water during the incident. Officials believe she may have been pulled into the water by the gator.

She was recovered from the water but was pronounced dead.

The incident happened between Polk and Osceola counties on Lake Kissimmee, according to the sheriffs office.

Deputies remained on scene Tuesday afternoon, along with a helicopter and Marine Unit. The FWC said a nuisance alligator trapper was also dispatched to the scene.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No further information was immediately available regarding Tuesdays attack.

The incident comes just months after another kayaker was bitten by an alligator at the mouth of a canal connecting Lake Kissimmee and Tiger Lake.

The March 3 incident sent the kayaker to the hospital with severe injuries to her arm, and the FWC said an 8-foot-4-inch-long alligator was captured and euthanized afterward.

According to the FWC, serious injuries caused by alligators are rare in Florida. However, residents and visitors can protect themselves by only swimming in designated swimming areas, keeping pets away from the water, and by not feeding alligators.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Anyone who is concerned by an alligator can call the FWCs toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286).

This is a developing story. Stay up to date on the latest from News Channel 8 on-air and on the go with the free WFLA News Channel 8 mobile 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 WFLA.
The KC-46 Pegasus refueling tankers troubled remote vision system is now unlikely to see a replacement upgrade until summer 2027, the Air Force said, putting the Boeing program more than three years behind schedule.

An Air Force spokesperson confirmed in an email Wednesday that the current projection for fielding the system, known as RVS 2.0, is roughly two years away, but did not say what is causing the latest schedule slip. Boeing referred questions to the Air Force.

The Air Force and Boeing are exploring opportunities to prevent or mitigate the slip in schedule, the spokesperson said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Older refueling tankers like the KC-10 Extender and KC-135 Stratotanker require boom operators to look through a window in the back while steering a boom into the receiving aircraft. KC-135 boom operators must lie on their stomachs while doing so.

When the KC-46 was designed, it promised a major change to how that work is done. Boom operators in the Pegasus sit in stations towards the front of the tanker and use cameras, sensors and screens to guide the refueling boom.

But the KC-46s original Collins-made remote vision system was beset by problems from the start. That faulty vision system does not respond quickly enough to changing sun and shadows, and sometimes produces a distorted image, which the Air Force fears could lead to receiving aircraft getting hit and damaged by the boom.

Boeing developed a replacement, dubbed RVS 2.0, that uses a series of sensors, screens and 4K ultrahigh-definition cameras to produce a 3D, full-color image for boom operators.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

RVS 2.0 was initially supposed to be released in March 2024. That deadline has slipped multiple times, due to supply chain problems and delays in the Federal Aviation Administrations airworthiness certification process.

Darlene Costello, the Air Forces principal deputy assistant secretary for acquisition, technology and logistics, said at a House Armed Services subcommittee hearing Wednesday that certification issues contributed to RVS 2.0s latest delays.

Costello said RVS 2.0 would likely come towards the end of fiscal 2027, or around September of that year, but that the service is pushing Boeing to get it done earlier, in part by addressing the FAA certification delays.

Theres some assumptions baked into [the fiscal 2027 deadline] that were not sure are exactly appropriate, and were going to be looking at ways to bring that to the left, Costello said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Air Force has a fully demonstrated version of RVS 2.0 in its lab, Costello said, and the service began installing the system in the first of its KC-46s in April. That airplanes testing is set to start later this year, Costello said.

Costello, who said she speaks to Boeing officials weekly about the Pegasus and its vision system, said the company and its subcontractors are committed to fielding it earlier than summer 2027.

The KC-46 are great tankers, and when they get the full RVS 2.0, there will be nothing that compares to it, Costello said.

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin told lawmakers Tuesday that the KC-46 now has five category 1 deficiencies, two of which stem from its remote vision system.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Allvin predicted RVS 2.0 might need another 18 months of work.

Its operating, its just not operating as we would expect it to, Allvin told the House Appropriations Committee.

The KC-46s stiff refueling boom is also a lingering problem, Allvin said. The tanker still cannot refuel the A-10 Warthog because of that boom stiffness issue, he said, and the service hasnt tested the KC-46 with the E-7 Wedgetail the service plans to bring into its fleet.

Allvin said that a week ago, he and Air Mobility Command head Gen. Jon Lamontagne met with Boeing Defense, Space and Security head Steve Parker, go line-by-line through the outstanding major problems with the KC-46.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is capable; its not optimal, Allvin said.

Costello also said the Air Force has now inspected all 89 of its KC-46s after cracks were discovered in the wing support structure of new tankers that were awaiting delivery to the service. That discovery prompted the service to halt deliveries of new tankers in February.

Of those 89 tankers already in the Air Forces fleet, Costello said 21 were found to have cracks of their own. All but three have now been repaired, she said.

Deliveries of new KC-46s are due to resume next week, Costello said.

Editors note: This story has been updated with remarks from a House Armed Services subcommittee hearing on May 7.
Ukraine suggested creating a demilitarized zone jointly controlled by Kyiv and Moscow, U.S. special envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg said in a Fox News interview on May 6.

Kellogg described the proposal as a buffer zone with both sides pulling back 15 kilometers, creating a 30-kilometer area monitored by observers from third countries.

He said the arrangement could accompany a ceasefire "in place," meaning both sides would maintain control of the territory they currently occupy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The proposal contrasts with Russian President Vladimir Putin's demands, which require Ukrainian forces to withdraw from Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson oblasts.

Russia claimed to annex the four regions during its full-scale invasion in 2022, but it does not fully control any of them.

Kellogg said the main obstacle to reaching a deal is Putin's refusal to accept a ceasefire.

"I think we're close. The one man who can deliver it, I believe, is President (Donald) Trump, as long as Putin agrees. And that's one of our, probably our, impediments to progress  the president of Russia right now not agreeing to it," Kellogg said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Responding to Kellogg's statement, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Moscow has not received any proposals from Kyiv regarding the establishment of a demilitarized zone along the front line, Russian state news agency TASS reported.

Moscow has listed maximalist demands in ceasefire talks and rejected a U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire, which Kyiv accepted on March 11.

"You get to a 30-day ceasefire. It'll get extended. And it is so hard to do this when you're a military guy to restart a conflict. And I don't think they will," Kellogg added.

Since taking office in January 2025, Trump has not approved any new U.S. military aid for Ukraine. His campaign pledge to end the war within 24 hours has failed to yield results after more than 100 days in office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite frustration with Moscow's refusal to de-escalate, the Trump administration has not imposed new sanctions or taken other steps to pressure the Kremlin.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Trump previously warned that the U.S. would withdraw from mediation efforts if talks stalled.

Read also: Without mentioning his name, Biden calls Trumps pressure on Ukraine modern-day appeasement towards Russia

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Preschool children sing before lunch at the iKids Childhood Enrichment Center, a child care provider in Benton, Nov. 28, 2023. (Kentucky Lantern photo by Abbey Cutrer)

Most registered Kentucky voters surveyed in June 2024 believe that working families having access to affordable child care is important for the future of the state, according to a report released Wednesday by the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce.

Read the report

A Foundation for Action: Shared Solutions to Child Care Challenges in Kentucky

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Foundation for Action report, which includes policy recommendations for lawmakers to consider in 2026, comes as the child care industry is at an impasse despite widespread discussions and efforts to address child care challenges that include high tuition, low wages for workers and a shortage of providers.

That June 2024 survey showed that 85% of registered voters in the state believe Kentucky families need access to affordable child care. It was a bipartisan consensus: 81% of Republicans, 89% of Democrats and 89% of Independents surveyed agreed.

A national survey also shared in the Wednesday report showed that 79% of American voters were supportive of federal policies aimed at providing child care benefits to families with young children.

That, too, was bipartisan, with 69% of Republicans, 88% of Democrats and 82% of Independents surveyed holding that stance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Helping more people access child care can help improve workforce participation, the report says. Kentuckys workforce participation is lower than some of its neighbors  about 81%, compared with 86% in Missouri, about 81% in Tennessee and 84% in Ohio.

In 2024, a survey of 1,357 parents from 88 Kentucky counties showed that some parents had already chosen to exit the workforce because of inaccessible child care. Many families put off having more children, delayed big purchases and sacrificed health care needs because of child care complications, the Lantern previously reported.

Access to high-quality child care is critical for working families and improving learning outcomes for kids, Ashley Novak Butler, the executive director of the Lift a Life Novak Family Foundation in Louisville, said in a statement. But to build an early learning ecosystem that can truly deliver for Kentucky families and children, we need collaboration and consensus among all stakeholders on the best path forward. Thats exactly what this project aimed to achieve.

The chambers 50-page report is the result of a 40-member group of business leaders, workforce development experts, child care providers, advocates and more who met between August 2024 and April 2025 to come up with a list of policy suggestions to improve the child care landscape in Kentucky.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Conversations were not always comfortable, but they were productive, the report states. With a focus on the private regulated child care sector, this cross-sector of Kentuckians reached consensus on more than three dozen public policy and programmatic recommendations with specific actionable items for policymakers, business leaders, nonprofits and philanthropy. Collectively, this work creates a foundation for sustainable, long-term child care solutions in Kentucky and underscores what can be achieved when Kentuckians from different walks of life work together to solve big problems.

What recommendations came out of the report?

The report has a slew of recommendations to stabilize the child care industry. They include:

Require more transparency in how the state budgets, braids and spends public dollars on child care, including both federal and state dollars.

Reform and modernize Kentucky ALL STARS, the states quality rating system for early childhood programs, including child care centers.

Develop, publicly display and track more accurate measurements of actual capacity for regulated child care services.

Create a non-intrusive and voluntary method for tracking and denoting faith-based and employer-sponsored child care services.

Conduct objective third-party studies to determine the return on taxpayer investments in child care on an annual basis.

Use a more precise meaningful measure of child care supply and demand gaps than child care deserts.

Ensure that low- and middle-income Kentucky families can afford child care by strengthening the Child Care Assistance Program and Employee Child Care Assistance Partnership.

Make the child care business model more sustainable by streamlining regulations, alleviating workforce challenges and creating new business opportunities.

Encourage more engagement from local communities and employers in solving child care challenges through targeted local matching grants and needs-based economic development incentives.

Improve training for child care services to support children with special needs.

Create accountable economic development incentives for businesses to create onsite or near-site child care services for their employees and communities.

And more.

Dustin Howard, the superintendent of Clark County Public Schools, is quoted in the report as saying, When Kentuckians have affordable high quality child care choices, our economy and employers win by growing the next generation of a viable workforce while unleashing our current workforce that will continue our upward growth as a Commonwealth, Howard said.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
LEITCHFIELD, Ky. (FOX 56)  Dozens of women in Grayson County have found themselves victims of online stalking, leading Kentucky State Police to make an arrest. Now, one victim, a state lawmaker, is hoping to turn the incident into action.

If I could talk to these young women, I want to say, first off, Im so sorry this happened to you. Im so sorry that you were personally violated in this way. This is unacceptable behavior. And what were doing is were standing up to it, Rep. Samara Heavrin (R-Leitchfield) told FOX 56 News.

Kentucky man accused of posting over 18K images of unknowing women, girls to porn site

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Heavrin said she was heartbroken not just for the violation she felt, but for the friends and neighbors shes known for years who found themselves unexpected victims in an uncomfortable situation.

A friend had texted me a Facebook post and said, Hey, you might want to check to see if youre on here. Heavrin explained. These werent bad photos. Most of the girls were clothed. These were just everyday photos taken. You know, my Christmas card photos got on there. Peoples senior pictures got put on there.

On Monday, Kentucky State Police arrested 29-year-old Zackery Robinson on 27 counts of stalking. The complaint alleges Robinson took photos from victims social media and posted them to a pornographic site.

Trooper Scotty Sharp announced on Wednesday that 18 additional charges were filed, including seven counts of promoting a minor under 16 in a sex performance, five counts of distribution of matter portraying a sex performance by a minor under 12, five counts of possessing matter portraying a sex performance by a minor under 12, and tampering with physical evidence charges.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The complaint said more than 18,000 photos of adult women and underage girls were posted, and a large majority of the posts are of Grayson County residents. And while the content of the photos may not be explicit, comments on the site are.

A young lady, her senior picture is on there. Somebody under a disguised name commented and said they would like to take her deep into the woods with chloroform. That is unacceptable. And these people have to be held accountable, Heavrin said.

Heavrin plans to use the time between now and the next session to explore how laws can be strengthened around voyeurism and consent, as well as revisiting any loopholes in a pornographic age verification law passed last year in House Bill 278.

LATEST KENTUCKY LISTS AND RANKINGS:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you want to post a photo on an explicit website, you should have the consent to be able to do that. Someone else shouldnt make that decision for you, Heavrin 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 FOX 56 News.
Chinese architect Liu Jiakun delivers a speech during the award ceremony of 2025 Pritzker Architecture Prize at the Louvre Abu Dhabi in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates, May 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Wen Xinnian)

ABU DHABI, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Chinese architect Liu Jiakun received the 2025 Pritzker Architecture Prize at a ceremony held at the Louvre Abu Dhabi on Monday, becoming the 54th laureate of the profession's highest international honour and only the second Chinese citizen to earn the accolade.

Liu was recognized for work that "celebrates the everyday lives of ordinary people and highlights collective identity and spiritual aspiration," said Alejandro Aravena, chair of the Pritzker Prize Jury and the 2016 laureate.

Aravena cited Liu's signature project -- the West Village Base in Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province -- as a defining example of how the architect's work "redefines the paradigm of public space and community life." Liu was born in Chengdu in 1956, and much of his practice remains rooted in the city.

Tom Pritzker, chairman of the Hyatt Foundation, which established the award in 1979, praised Liu for "bringing communities together through architecture, inspiring humanistic care, and elevating the human spirit."

In his acceptance speech, Liu invoked traditional Chinese philosophy, stressing the importance of "living in harmony with nature." He described architecture not simply as a profession, but as "a continuous response to society and the human spirit."

More than 200 guests attended the ceremony, including Chinese Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates Zhang Yiming, current jury members, past laureates, and other leading figures from the worlds of architecture, diplomacy, and culture.

The Pritzker committee announced Liu's selection in March. He follows Wang Shu, who received the award in 2012, as the second Chinese architect to be honored. 
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC)  A New York City man who kidnapped a 14-year-old girl from Brighton last year and sexually assaulted her at an apartment in the Bronx has been sentenced to prison.

Charges against him included kidnapping in the first degree as a sexually motivated felony, and two counts of criminal sex act in the first and second degrees.

Investigators said Serdar Ozmen, 41, met the young girl on social media before he convinced her to leave her home in Brighton and go back with him to New York City where he then sexually assaulted her.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Accused kidnapper of Brighton teen arraigned on new charges

The victim was found by authorities in the Bronx apartment less than 24 hours later.

The incident prompted an Amber Alert in March.

Ozmen pleaded guilty to the indictment against him in February 2025. In court Wednesday he requested to have his guilty plea withdrawn which the judge denied.

Ozmen has been sentenced to the maximum sentencing of 25-years to life in 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 RochesterFirst.
AUSTINTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  Kidnapping and strangulation charges were dismissed in a case against a Lake Milton man.

According to an Austintown court employee, those charges against Hunter Hodson from an incident on March 11 were dismissed. Court records indicate that Hudson was found guilty of misdemeanor assault and was sentenced to a suspended jail sentence with credit for time served. He will be on non-reporting probation for a year, have to pay fines and stay away from the victim in the case, the court employee said.

Deputies arrested Hodson on March 31 after police received reports from witnesses that he had hit a woman and pushed her to the ground.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Reports state that Hodson then dragged the woman to a vehicle, threw her in the passenger seat and drove off.

Officers were able to locate the woman who had a bloody eye, cuts on her ear and red marks around her neck, reports state.

Erin Yudt 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.
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  Penguin City is celebrating National Skilled Trades Day with a family-friendly event on Wednesday.

Since its also halfway to Halloween, kids can dress up as their favorite skilled trades workers and trick-or-treat.

There will also be a costume contest, and each business will have table activities set up. Its happening from 4 to 7 p.m. at Penguin City at 460 E. Federal St.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

National Skilled Trades Day is a national holiday. It was founded by City Machine Technologies Incorporated in Youngstown in 2019.

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.
At least two people were killed after debris from downed drones hit residential buildings in Kiev overnight, sparking fires across several districts, the civil protection agency and Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Wednesday.

The victims were found as firefighters tried to put out blazes in apartments which started after drone parts crashed into a five-storey residential building. Meanwhile, air raid sirens continued to sound in the capital in the morning, with Klitschko instructing residents to take cover.

Klitschko said that eight other people were also injured, including four children. The civil defence authorities spoke of five injured. Teymur Tkachenko, head of the city's military administration, also spoke of five injured on Telegram.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In one district, parts of a residential building were destroyed, Tkachenko said. In another, flats on the seventh, eighth and ninth floors of a 10-storey building caught fire. A supermarket was also hit.

Ukrainian media reported explosions heard during a citywide air raid alert.

In Moscow, Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said on Telegram that Russian air defences had intercepted nine Ukrainian drones overnight. No damage or casualties were immediately reported.

The claims could not be independently verified.

Flight operations at Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport were temporarily restricted overnight due to security concerns, according to Russia's TASS news agency, which cited aviation authorities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Russia is set to hold its annual Victory Day military parade on Friday, commemorating the Soviet Union's defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945. Ahead of the celebrations, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a temporary three-day ceasefire in Ukraine beginning Thursday.

Ukraine has dismissed the move as symbolic and, along with the United States, continues to call for a minimum 30-day ceasefire.

Ukraine has been defending itself against a full-scale Russian invasion for more than three years. As part of its defensive campaign, it has also been attacking targets in Russia, resulting in deaths and injuries.
Princess Charlotte shares a particularly warm bond with her grandfather, King Charles.

Now 76, the King has been spending more time at Windsor Castle  close to where Prince William, Kate Middleton and their three children live and is often nearby.

"He once wanted a daughter," royal author Ingrid Seward tells PEOPLE in this week's exclusive cover story. "I would think he has a very nice relationship with his granddaughter."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That observation echoes something the late Princess Diana once revealed in Diana: Her True Story by Andrew Morton: that Charles had always longed for a daughter.

"I knew Harry was going to be a boy because I saw on the scan," Diana said about the birth of Prince Harry, their second son. "Charles always wanted a girl. He wanted two children, and he wanted a girl."

Chris Jackson/Getty Kate Middleton and Princess Charlotte during the military procession to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day on May 5, 2025 in London. Kate Middleton and Princess Charlotte during the military procession to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day on May 5, 2025 in London.

Related: Kate Middleton and Princess Charlotte Share Sweet Mother-Daughter Moments at Buckingham Palace Celebration

Charlottes arrival in 2015 brought immense joy to the royal family. As the only daughter of Prince William and Princess Kate, shes quickly taken on a key role, impressing many  including her grandfather  with her poise and confidence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The young princesss innate grace in royal duties reflects the same sense of purpose Charles himself embodies. Shes a natural and has taken to royal events like a duck to water, a palace insider tells PEOPLE.

Beyond her expert curtsies and poised appearances, Charles has also been spotted wearing a friendship bracelet Charlotte likely made for him  a small but touching symbol of their personal bond.

Karwai Tang/WireImage; Samir Hussein/WireImage Princess Charlotte in the Royal Box at Wimbledon on July 14, 2024. King Charles travels by carriage from the Houses of Parliament in London on July 17, 2024; (Right) Princess Charlotte in the Royal Box at Wimbledon on July 14, 2024. King Charles travels by carriage from the Houses of Parliament in London on July 17, 2024; (Right)

Prince William and Princess Kate's only daughter turned 10 on May 2, on the heels of a year that has tested the family like never before.

In March 2024, Princess Kate shared that she had been undergoing cancer treatment. King Charles' cancer diagnosis was also announced that February and remains ongoing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Its been incredibly tough for us as a family," the Princess of Wales said in a video in September, announcing the end of her chemotherapy.

That video included glimpses of Princess Charlotte and her brothers, Prince George, 11, and Prince Louis, 7, laughing and playing in the sand dunes  symbols of the strength and stability the Waleses worked so hard to maintain.

Neil Mockford/GC Images King Charles, Prince Edward, the Duke of Kent, Queen Camilla, Prince William, Prince George, Prince Louis, Kate Middleton and Princess Charlotte on the balcony of Buckingham Palace during the procession to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day on May 5, 2025. King Charles, Prince Edward, the Duke of Kent, Queen Camilla, Prince William, Prince George, Prince Louis, Kate Middleton and Princess Charlotte on the balcony of Buckingham Palace during the procession to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day on May 5, 2025.

Related: Kate Middleton and Prince William Offer Unprecedented Glimpse Into Life with Their 3 Kids in Intimate New Video

Much of that normalcy comes from Kates parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, who remain deeply involved.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The Middletons provide that stability," says the palace insider.

Even as Princess Charlotte grows into her royal role, she is still a modern 10-year-old. She joined William and George at Taylor Swifts Eras Tour in June 2024, where they met Swift and her NFL-star boyfriend, Travis Kelce, who later called Charlotte a "superstar." She introduced the friendship-bracelet craze embraced by Swifties to the royal household, prompting William, George and even her grandfather the King to wear handmade bands.

The Prince of Wales sported one labeled "Papa" during a royal trip to South Africa in November, and King Charles kept his on with his military uniform at the State Opening of Parliament in July.

Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty Princess Charlotte on May 5, 2025 Princess Charlotte on May 5, 2025

There are thorny questions ahead for Charlotte and her parents as they navigate the complexities of her unique position as spare to George, the future heir. It's a vulnerable place and one fraught with potential pitfalls that her uncle Harry, who also grew up as the spare, has made all too clear.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The late Queen [Elizabeth] was always very conscious of that extraordinary and challenging role of the No. 2," says royal biographer Robert Hardman, author of The Making of a King. "Thats why she had a particular soft spot for [her sister] Margaret, for [her son] Andrew and Harry. She understood being second place in a strictly hierarchical family and institution has its challenges. Everyone is conscious of that."

Particularly William, adds Hardman, who regards one of his key responsibilities as not just "preparing to be King himself but to make the whole royal existence approachable and not scary for all his children."

PEOPLE Magazine, May 19, 2025.

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!



As William and Kate navigate the balance between royal duty and family life, the future of their children, especially Charlotte, remains a path of immense potential.

"Getting the family right is absolutely critical, particularly in terms of what the nation expects of them," says a family friend.



Read the original article on People
King Charles busy week of royal events continued on the water!



The monarch, 76, boarded a hybrid Thames Clippers Uber Boat in Westminster on Wednesday, May 7, for a ride along the famous London waterway.



He met with employees as he traveled on the Mars Clipper, one of three boats the Thames Clippers company currently has serving 24 piers along the River Thames. He also chatted with CEO Sean Collins, learning more about the companys investments in hybrid and hydrogen power.



Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It's a nice way [to travel], the King remarked, according to The Daily Mail.



Toby Melville - WPA Pool/Getty King Charles in London on May 7, 2025 King Charles in London on May 7, 2025

Related: King Charles Urges Climate Action on Behalf of His Grandchildren: 'They Will Be Living with the Consequences'

After a 10-minute ride, the royal group disembarked for a visit to the Thames Tideway Tunnel project at Bazalgette Embankment.



Known as the London super sewer, the tunnel was officially opened by the King after 10 years of construction. Measuring 25km long and able to hold more than four million gallons of sewage, the Tideway project was built to help divert waste away from the Thames and keep the iconic river cleaner.



Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The London sewers were originally constructed during the Victorian era, when the capital city held just around four million people. The system has struggled in recent years due to increased population, rainfall and climate change.

TOBY MELVILLE/POOL/AFP via Getty King Charles in London on May 7, 2025 King Charles in London on May 7, 2025

Tideway CEO Andy Mitchell welcomed the King, showing off the project's high-tech tracking systems  which have measured nearly two billion gallons of waste diverted away from the Thames since August 2024  and unveiling a plaque bearing his name.

The King was fascinated with detail and the quality of the space, Mitchell later said of the monarchs visit. The team were absolutely thrilled with his comments on the quality of the work here. In an average year, there are 40 million tons [of sewage] and we will be preventing the vast majority of that from going into the river.



King Charles also met with some of the 25,000 workers on the project and spoke with poet Dorothea Smartt, whose poetry about the River Thames is inscribed on the Tideways ventilation columns.

TOBY MELVILLE/POOL/AFP via Getty King Charles in London on May 7, 2025 King Charles in London on May 7, 2025

Related: King Charles Sports a Top Hat at First Buckingham Palace Garden Party of the Season with Queen Camilla

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The monarch has been a lifelong proponent of environmental causes and conservation projects, and his royal calendar often reflects that passion.

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!



On Tuesday night, King Charles attended the premiere of Ocean with David Attenborough, the latest nature documentary hosted by the beloved English biologist, at the Royal Festival Hall in London.

The film, which is set to debut in cinemas before airing on NatGeo and streaming on Disney+ and Hulu, focuses on sharing the story of how we can, and must, restore the glory of Earths vast, interconnected waters, according to a press release.



Read the original article on People
VATICAN CITY (AP)  One hundred and thirty-three cardinals sequestered themselves behind the Vatican's medieval walls for a conclave to elect a successor to Pope Francis. Here are some things to know about the election of the 267th pontiff of the Catholic Church, which has 1.4 billion faithful across the world.

Why is the conclave being held now?

The conclave was called after Francis died on April 21 at age 88. There was a delay between his death and the conclave to allow time for a funeral, burial and a period of mourning. It was also necessary to give cardinals time to arrive in Rome from all corners of the Earth, and to let them get acquainted before entering the conclave, an ancient ritual steeped in mystery and ritual.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What happens in a conclave?

A solemn day began with a Mass in St. Peter's Basilica. The cardinals walked in procession into the frescoed Sistine Chapel, chanting the meditative Litany of the Saints and the Latin hymn Veni Creator, imploring the saints and the Holy Spirit to help them pick a pope.

The cardinals are cut off from the world at the Vatican, between residences and the Sistine Chapel, where they vote in secret  and in silence  beneath Michelangelos famed ceiling fresco of the Creation and his monumental Last Judgment.

The process  fictionalized in the 2024 political thriller Conclave  is said to be guided by the Holy Spirit, and is designed to be both contemplative and free from outside interference.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Taking no chances, the Vatican is asking cardinals to hand over their phones for the duration of the conclave and is deactivating cell phone coverage at the Vatican. It is using signal jammers around the Sistine Chapel and the Domus Santa Marta hotel and adjacent residence where the cardinals will sleep, to prevent surveillance and communication with the outside world.

White or black smoke signals?

The electors cast paper ballots, and voting continues until one candidate receives a two-thirds majority, or 89 votes. After voting, ballots are burned in a special stove  black smoke signals no decision, while white smoke means a new pope has been chosen.

Electors must be under 80 years old, and are more geographically diverse than ever. They represent Catholicisms growing presence in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, as well as its traditional power base in Europe.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

How long does it take?

The longest conclave in history lasted nearly three years, but it's reasonable to assume that this conclave will be much, much shorter.

Cardinals this week said they expect a short conclave, though it will likely take at least a few rounds of voting.

A first round produced darks dark smoke that rose into Wednesday's night sky, sending a disappointed crowd to disperse in all directions.

For most of the past century, it has taken between three and eight ballots to find a pope. John Paul I  the pope who reigned for 33 days  was elected on the third ballot in 1978. His successor, St. John Paul II, needed eight. Francis was elected on the fifth in 2013.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Who are the contenders?

There are no official candidates for the papacy, but some cardinals are considered papabile, or possessing the characteristics necessary to become pope.

After John Paul II broke the Italian hold on the papacy in 1978, the field has broadened considerably, such that cardinals from far-flung countries are now seen as contenders.

Of the 133 cardinals expected to vote at the conclave, 108 were appointed by Francis. They may feel a loyalty to continuing his legacy  even though the late pontiff didnt choose cardinals based on ideology, but rather for their pastoral priorities and geographical diversity.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What happens after a new pope is chosen?

Once a candidate receives the necessary votes and accepts, he chooses a papal name and enters the Room of Tears  named for the emotional weight of the responsibility ahead  to don his papal vestments.

Minutes later, he is introduced to the world from the balcony of St. Peters Basilica with the proclamation in Latin: "Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: Habemus Papam! (I bring you tidings of great joy: We have a pope!)

That will be immediately followed by the revelation of his baptismal name, in Latin, followed by the papal name he has chosen.

A line that stretches back to St. Peter and Jesus

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Every new pope is seen as a successor to St. Peter, the apostle believed by Catholics to have been appointed by Jesus as the head of the church. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus tells him, You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church," a verse that forms the biblical basis for the papacy.

According to tradition, Peter traveled to Rome to spread the Christian message and was martyred there during the reign of the Emperor Nero, around 64 A.D., as Christians were being persecuted. He was said to be crucified upside down at his own request, considering himself unworthy to die in the same manner as Jesus.

St. Peters Basilica now stands over what is believed to be his tomb.

Why does the pope matter beyond the Catholic Church?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Though the pope leads a religious institution, his influence extends far beyond it. Pope John Paul II played a pivotal role in supporting the Solidarity movement in his native Poland and encouraging resistance to Soviet domination in Eastern Europe. His moral leadership was credited by many with helping to hasten the end of the Cold War.

Pope Francis, the first pontiff from Latin America, became a prominent voice on global issues from climate change to migration and economic inequality. He called for compassion toward refugees, warned against the dangers of nationalism, and urged action to protect the planet  stances that resonated well beyond church walls, and at times put him at odds with political leaders.

A name to signal a papal direction

The first sign of the new popes priorities will come in the name he chooses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A Francis II might signal a new pope's embrace of Francis' legacy of prioritizing the poor and marginalized; a Pius would hint at a traditionalist restoration.

____

Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the APs collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content.
GAZA, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Hamas on Tuesday rejected U.S. President Donald Trump's remarks accusing the movement of controlling humanitarian aid in Gaza, considering it "justification for the crime of systematic starvation."

"They are also consistent with the policies of the occupation, which uses starvation as a weapon, in flagrant violation of international law and humanitarian norms," Hamas said in a press statement.

"It is not enough for Trump to ask (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu to 'send some food,'" said the statement, urging the U.S. administration to "stop providing cover for Israel's starvation policy in the Gaza Strip, and to pressure it to halt its offensive and open the crossings, which have been closed for more than two months, to allow the entry of all essential life-saving materials."

Trump said during a White House news conference on Monday that the United States would help supply food to people in the Gaza Strip while blaming Hamas for the dire humanitarian situation there.

"We are going to help the people of Gaza get some food," Trump said. "People are starving, and we are going to help them get some food. A lot of people are making it very bad."

Israel halted the entry of goods and supplies into Gaza on March 2, following the expiration of the first phase of a January ceasefire agreement with Hamas. It resumed attacks on Gaza on March 18, which have so far killed more than 2,500 Palestinians.

Israeli authorities were attempting to impose a new aid distribution system that would funnel humanitarian supplies through military-controlled hubs, rather than allowing UN agencies and NGOs to operate independently, according to a recent press release from the United Nations. 
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) Here are the top headlines from this morning.

Real ID requirements take effect today. If you dont have a Real ID, you can expect some challenges the next time youre at the airport.

Do you need a REAL ID before the enforcement deadline? Heres what to know

The city of Spencer is holding a town hall tonight regarding flooding recovery.

City of Spencer to hold flood recovery update town hall

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Several communities in South Dakota will serve as a location for this years Avera Race Against Cancer.

Over 7K runners expected at Averas Race Against Cancer

Local fire fighters completed a successful drill, as they practiced how to rescue hospital patients in case of an emergency.

Sioux City firefighters surprise hospital patients with training

Check out these headlines and more in the video 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 SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.
President Donald Trump 's administration expanded its capacity to detain immigrants not legally in the country by opening a facility in New Jersey's largest city this month, spurring protests outside the fenced-in building including from Newark Mayor Ras Baraka.

Delaney Hall, a 1,000-bed facility along an industrial stretch of Newark Bay, opened May 1, according to the private prison company that operates the center. The administrations announcement came amid a headline-grabbing crackdown on immigration around the country and as it ramped up its efforts to deport certain immigrants.

The situation is playing out in Newark and in federal court as the mayor litigates against the company running the facility. The city says it shouldnt be open yet because of building permit issues. The conflict underscores the divide between what Trump views as an election mandate to deport people not lawfully in the U.S., and Democratic officials who question the administration's methods as well as the necessity of cracking down.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A closer look at what's going on at the Newark detention center.

What is Delaney Hall and why is it in the news?

The gray, two-story building next to a county prison operated as a halfway house before a February announcement from Immigration and Customs Enforcement that it and the GEO Group, which runs Delaney Hall, reached a $1 billion, 15-year deal for a detention center there.

The new facility sparked pushback from immigrants rights groups and the mayor in particular. Baraka sued GEO Group soon after the deal between the company and ICE was announced. The case got transferred from state to federal court, where a judge is considering the city's request to temporarily block the opening of the facility.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its not clear whether anyone is held inside yet. GEO Group did not comment on whether it was holding detainees at Delaney Hall, and ICE did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

What does the mayor say about it?

Baraka says the facility lacks the proper city permits in order to open, including a certificate of occupancy. He appeared Tuesday and Wednesday outside the facility's gates, aiming to gain entry but ultimately being denied.

This comes as the mayor, who is the son of late poet and activist Amiri Baraka, is in a crowded Democratic primary to succeed term-limited Gov. Phil Murphy, also a Democrat. Baraka has embraced the fight with the Trump administration over illegal immigration, arguing the president is pushing constitutional due process limits.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its not a Democratic or Republican issue in my mind. This is an issue of human rights, an issue of due process, an issue of the Fourth Amendment of the Constitution of the United States, he said this week. We are afraid and opposed and alarmed by them setting up a detention center.

The city says Delaney Hall has permit issues such as needing grounded electrical outlets in a half-dozen rooms in the facility, and a new entry gate that needs a permit related to electrical work, among other things. That's according to code inspection documents submitted in legal filings for the city's case against GEO Group. The inspection didn't find any problems with how fire extinguishers had been serviced, and said exit signs were properly installed.

Where does the company running the facility stand?

Florida-based GEO Group said the mayor is politicizing the situation and that city officials didn't object when the Obama administration operated the facility as an ICE processing center.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Christopher Ferreira, a company spokesperson, said via a statement that the facility is creating hundreds of unionized jobs, with an average annual salary of $105,000, and is expected to contribute $50 million to the local Newark economy.

In legal filings, the company has argued there's no legal standing for the city to seek a preliminary injunction based on the purported violations of city codes.
Author and Waukesha North High School alumna Kathie Giorgio has asked to have her name removed from the school's Wall of Stars after the district banned her books from school libraries in the district. The district has agreed to do so.

Whats the Wall of Stars, and when was Giorgio added?

The Wall of Stars honors the accomplishments of Waukesha North High School's alumni. To be nominated, a person must have graduated at least five years ago, demonstrated citizenship during and after high school and have made a significant contribution to the community and society, according to the district's website.

Giorgio was nominated and accepted to the Wall of Stars in 2020 for her success as an author and for starting her business, AllWriters Workplace and Workshop LLC, a creative writing studio in Waukesha.

What has Giorgio written?

Giorgio has written 15 books: eight novels and seven collections of poems or short stories.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Here are her novels:

"The Home for Wayward Clocks"

"Learning To Tell a (Life) Time"

"Rise from the River"

"In Grace's Time"

"If You Tame Me"

"All Told"

"Hope Always Rises"

"Don't Let Me Keep You"

Here are her poems and short stories:

"Olivia In Five, Seven, Five; Autism In Haiku"

"No Matter Which Way You Look, There Is More To See"

"When You Finally Said No"

"Today's Moment of Happiness Despite The News"

"Enlarged Hearts"

"True Light Falls in Many Forms" is a poetry chapbook.

"Oddities And Endings: The Collected Stories of Kathie Giorgio"

Why did Giorgio want her name removed from the Wall of Stars?

In 2023, she discovered her books were among those removed from some of the school district's libraries. A librarian told Giorgio it was because they hadn't been checked out often, but she questioned that explanation because, she said, her books were on reading lists for various classes at Waukesha North.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Giorgio spoke at the schools 50th anniversary celebration in January, and gifted the district with copies of her books. She later learned that the district would not accept the gift.

Why wont the school district accept her books?

Its unclear.

A librarian told Giorgio her books were removed initially because they hadnt been checked out often.

Giorgio received an email from Waukesha School District deputy superintendent of teaching and learning Jenn Gennerman saying the books would not be accepted because the district prefers books to have protagonists the same age as high school students. But Giorgio said 11 of her 15 books do have protagonists of high school age.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And, Giorgio said, her own children read books at North that did not have high school age protagonists.

Giorgio also said she received an email from a school board member saying the district likes its library books to be a part of the core curriculum.

In any event, the school board reserves the right to define what gifts it considers appropriate and to reject what it deems inappropriate or unsuitable, according to the district's policy on donations.

The school district did not answer questions about specifically why the books were not accepted or what process was followed in reviewing Giorgio's donation.

What is the school district's response?

In a statement, the school district said it has spent "significant time, energy, and resources to establish guaranteed and viable curriculum resources across many subjects."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Our goal is to ensure all students have a common and rigorous learning experience. Similarly, our focus has also been on ensuring that our school libraries offer age and maturity-level appropriate content. When there is a donation of books, our library media staff has practices in place for when books are donated," the district said.

"We have had a change in library staff over the years," said a statement from the school district. "The size of the library, the condition of the book and the frequency of the book being checked out are all factors when considering if a book is weeded from the library collection."

Contact Alec Johnson at (262) 875-9469 or alec.johnson@jrn.com. Follow him on X (Twitter) at @AlecJohnson12.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Author Kathie Giorgio removed from Waukesha North Wall of Stars
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE)  Its been nearly two years since the Knox County Mental Health Court launched.

The court is an alternative for people with severe mental illness to receive treatment instead of going to prison. When it launched in August 2023, it was the eighth court of its kind in Tennessee.

Bean Station sewer project gets $1.5 million in state funding

Weve had 80 referrals and out of those 80, we have actually 29 that were accepted into the program, Kasey Stone, Director of Operations for the Knox County Court of Clerks. We have 21 active participants, and two that have graduated so far, and three voluntary withdraws, that sometimes happen, its not always a good fit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Stone credits the McNabb Center with being a resource in helping launching the court.

Being able to engage in partnerships of people and other roles that are already touching lives that might need additional resources to help navigate those tough parts in life, Lindsay Stone with the McNabb Center.

In order to be accepted into the program, there are certain requirements that need to be met.

TDOT 10-year plan gets $1 billion injection to speed up projects

Technically your attorney actually needs to be that individual that meets with the participant, goes over the program, and what all it takes to go through the program and be successful and then together they submit the referral to the mental health court, Stone said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Each person in the program is assigned a case manager who develops a treatment plan and guides each person through the process.

They meet with that judge each week and they get that personalized attention, Stone said. The judge speaks to them one on one and addresses them. They get assigned case managers, so they get that assistance, and that support to help them through the program process.

East TN in need of more mental health care: What resources are available

The program last 16 to 24 months and is a five-step process. It is held weekly in the Sessions Court at the City County Building.

.

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.
KNOXVILLE, Iowa  A Knoxville man has been charged in a late-night drive-by shooting in Knoxville that resulted in him shooting himself in the leg, police say.

At around 1:50 a.m. Tuesday the Knoxville Police Department received a report from a resident saying they had Ring doorbell footage of someone shooting at a home in the 1400 block of N Grant Street and again at an intersection further down the street, court documents say. The shooting resulted in the exterior pane of a window at a home on N Grant Street to shatter.

Later that night, a man named Payton Lee Cole Phillips, 27, arrived at the Knoxville Emergency Room with a gunshot wound. According to court documents, Phillips was identified as the alleged shooter in the drive-by earlier that night. No other injuries were reported from the shooting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The driver of the vehicle involved in the drive-by shooting told police that Phillips was in the front passenger seat and fired a handgun out of the window about four to five times in what was described as a random act of violence in a criminal complaint. During the shooting Phillips unintentionally shot himself in the leg, the complaint states.

36-year-old former farm employee arrested for allegedly intentionally causing Waukee fuel leak

Officers searched the vehicle that was allegedly used in the shooting and located a Glock 43X, which is believed to be the handgun used by Phillips, as well as two loaded magazines, raw marijuana flower, and a used marijuana grinder, court documents state. Officers also located a spent 9 mm shell casing in the hospital parking lot and three spent 9 mm shell casings at the intersection of Grant St. and Jackson St.

According to a criminal complaint, when officers initially spoke with Phillips at the hospital, they noted he had a strong odor of alcohol, blood shot and watery eyes, droopy eyelids, and slurred speech.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Phillips was arrested and charged with the following:

Intimidation with a dangerous weapon  no intent

Reckless use of a firearm  bodily injury

Reckless use of a firearm  property damage

Reckless use of a firearm

Possession or carrying of a dangerous weapon while under the influence

Person ineligible to carry a dangerous weapon

Use of a dangerous weapon in the commissions of a crime

Possession of marijuana  first offense

Possession of drug paraphernalia

Phillips was booked into the Marion County Jail on a $17,000 cash/surety bond. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for May 15.

Iowa News:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 who13.com.
Mobile internet restrictions will be enforced in Moscow and several Russian regions while foreign officials visit the country, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on May 7.

Peskov claimed the measures, which may last through May 10, are necessary due to "dangerous neighbors."

"These are not disruptions, but restrictions for obvious reasons. We want the glorious Victory Day to be celebrated at the appropriate level." he added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The clampdown comes ahead of Russia's Victory Day, a key propaganda event for President Vladimir Putin marking the Soviet Union's defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.

For a third straight day, the Kremlin reported downing Ukrainian drones approaching Moscow, forcing mass flight delays and diversions around the capital on May 7.

Internet disruptions began on May 5 during rehearsals for the May 9 Victory Day parade. The pro-government Telegram channel Baza reported restrictions affecting at least eight regions and 30 cities including St. Petersburg, and Moscow.

In Mordovia and Saransk, authorities shut down internet access after a Ukrainian drone attack targeted the Optical Fiber Systems plant. Astra, an independent Russian outlet, reported outages in Vladimir Oblast, Voronezh, Orel, and Taganrog.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On May 7, residents of Moscow and its surrounding region reported further disruptions, including ATM failures, halted card payments in stores, and food delivery issues, the pro-Kremlin outlet Careful, Moscow reported.

Ukraine has previously shown it can reach Moscow with drones. On May 8, a unilateral "humanitarian" truce, announced by Putin, is set to begin, lasting until midnight on May 11.

President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed the move as a "theatrical performance," with experts telling the Kyiv Independent the announcement violates norms of ceasefire negotiations.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to visit Russia from May 710 to discuss Ukraine, Russia-U.S. relations, and energy cooperation with Putin and attend the parade.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Other expected guests include Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, though Fico's attendance remains uncertain due to illness.

At least 29 world leaders and military personnel from 13 countries are expected at the parade.

Read also: Without mentioning his name, Biden calls Trumps pressure on Ukraine modern-day appeasement towards Russia

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
You cant track cash  so if someone takes it, youre out of luck.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed that on Sunday, April 20, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's purse was stolen.

Don't miss

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She was dining with her family at a popular downtown Washington restaurant called The Capital Burger when the theft happened.

What happened, exactly?

CNN, one of the first news outlets to report the story, said that her purse contained Noems medication, drivers license, passport, apartment keys, makeup bag, $3,000 in cash, blank checks and her DHS access badge.

Noem herself noticed the purse was missing  it wasnt spotted by her Secret Service detail.

Since then, the Secret Service has reviewed security footage to determine what happened.

According to NBC News, a man wearing an N95 mask entered the restaurant around 7:55 p.m. ET and approached the area where Noem was dining.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He moved his chair closer to hers, then slid his foot toward her purse, dragging it back to him. Within minutes, he had tucked the bag under his jacket and walked out.

NBC also reported that a witness said the restaurant wasnt busy at the time, and at least two plainclothes Secret Service agents were on duty. They were seated between the front doors and the bar where Noem was sitting.

Her entire family was in town, including her children and grandchildren  she was using the withdrawal to treat her family to dinner, activities and Easter gifts, a DHS spokesperson said.

Jonathan Wackrow, a CNN law enforcement analyst and former Secret Service agent, told CNN the incident may point to a lapse in security.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is a security breach that actually has high consequences, and it needs immediate and further review, he said, adding that the Homeland Security Secretary is at higher risk for targeted threats, both by foreign and domestic actors.

Read more: Here are 5 must have items that Americans (almost) always overpay for  and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?

Why did she have so much cash?

Tricia McLaughlin, a DHS spokesperson, confirmed Noem had withdrawn the cash to treat her visiting family during the Easter holiday.

There is no conclusive evidence that Noem was deliberately targeted, nor do investigators know whether the thief was aware of whose purse it was.

What can we learn from this incident

Noems unfortunate experience is a reminder of the importance of safeguarding your valuables. While theft cant always be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and potential losses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

First, avoid carrying around large sums of cash. As mentioned earlier, cash is untraceable, and once its gone, its nearly impossible to recover  especially if its spent before the thief is caught.

Carrying around blank checks is also risky. A thief could forge your signature and withdraw money from your account.

While state and federal laws may protect you in cases of check fraud, your bank might help recover stolen funds from a written check, blank checks generally dont carry the same protections.

Whatever you carry in your wallet or purse, always stay aware of your surroundings. Even at social gatherings, its important to keep an eye on your belongings. Simply holding onto your purse rather than placing it on the floor makes it less accessible to potential thieves.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If your purse or wallet is stolen, report the theft immediately and list everything that was inside. Cancel all credit and debit cards, report stolen IDs and freeze your bank accounts if possible.

What to read next

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill.  Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was in Springfield Wednesday to make remarks on Illinois sanctuary state policies and Gov. JB Pritzkers leadership.

Governor Pritzker has created a sanctuary here for those criminals and invited them here with free healthcare, free housing, free assistance and facilitated them be protected from being brought to justice. People are dying every day because of these polices, Noem said during a press conference.

The press conference was originally scheduled for Wednesday at 10 a.m. outside the Governors Mansion, but it did not happen, and it is unclear why.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Noem, along with other Trump administration officials, has argued such policies shield immigrants accused of crimes from facing consequences. State Republicans also say they have long wanted the states sanctuary policies eliminated.

Weve been asking for the repeal of that from the start and have legislation out there that could be easily picked up by our colleagues on the other side of the aisle to repeal the sanctuary state, said House Republican Leader Tony McCombie.

Among those joining the secretary on Wednesday were families, who Noem says have allegedly lost loved ones at the hands of people illegally in the U.S.

Shame on Pritzker for what hes done to the state of Illinois, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Noem attacked Pritzker while at the podium, but Pritzker had some snark of his own ahead of her visit.

We would urge all pet owners in the region to make sure all of your beloved animals are under watchful protection while the secretary is in the region.

Pritzkers comment made reference to the controversy over Noems decision to kill a dog, detailed in her memoir.

The governor also released the following statement in response to Noems visit to Illinois:

Unlike Donald Trump and Kristi Noem, Illinois follows the law.  The Trump Administration is violating the United States Constitution, denying people due process, and disappearing law-abiding neighbors  including children who are U.S. citizens. Yet, they are taking no real action to promote public safety and deport violent criminals within the clear and defined legal process. Trump-Noem publicity stunts do not make our communities safer or our immigration system smarter. Illinois doesnt need to abuse power or ignore the Constitution to keep our people safe. Like the millions of Americans asking for sensible, humane immigration reform, I encourage the Secretary to spend less time performing for Fox News and more time protecting the Homeland.  Secretary Noem must have not realized she was visiting during Latino Unity Day where we come together celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of our community. Today, Secretary Noem was met by a force stronger than her: the people of Illinois. Illinoisans are sending a clear message to Trumps lackeys that we will not let you mess with us without a resistance. Gov. JB Pritzker

Pritzker will be heading to Washington in June to testify about Illinois sanctuary policies.

The U.S. House Oversight Committee requested him, along with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and New York Governor Kathy Hochul.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias also held a press conference Wednesday in Springfield, seemingly fired up about Noems visit and the Trump administrations handling of mass deportations.

I think about this monster Donald Trump, and I think about these dangerously, incompetent and cruel people like Kristi Noem. Who instead of focusing on leadership and helping others and welcoming people, they are scaring the sh** out of people and sending them to other countries without due process, Giannoulias said.

Now, Homeland Security posts pictures regularly to social media highlighting the arrests of immigrants with criminal backgrounds. But that said, the agency has refused, since January, to provide data to WGN News about the number of ICE arrests in the Chicago area, how many of those have a criminal history and how many have actually been removed from the country.

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.
UPDATE: Protestors gathered outside of the capitol protesting Noems appearance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (NEXSTAR)  The Director of Homeland Security Kristi Noem is coming to Springfield on Wednesday.

While in the city, she will criticize the states sanctuary policy for immigrants. In a press release for the visit, Noems office said she will highlight how sanctuary policies in Illinois have unleashed violence on American citizens  including rape, sexual assault, murder, shoplifting, and more  while shielding illegal aliens responsible from facing consequence.

IL House Committee hears debate over SAVE Act

In a continuation of their mass deportation platform, the Trump Administration has taken aim at states with protections for noncitizens. In 2017, Republican Governor Bruce Rauner signed the TRUST Act, which forbids local law enforcement from assisting federal immigration officials on cases in which they do not have a criminal warrant issued by a judge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Protests are expected during Noems visit, and lawmakers at the Capitol are expected to speak out against her rhetoric. Noems visit coincides with Latino Unity Day at the Illinois State Capitol.

While Noem is coming to Illinois to attack the policy, Governor Pritzkers office confirmed that he will be going to D.C. next month to defend the states protections for noncitizens. He will be voluntarily attending a hearing with House Oversight Committee.

Lawmakers take steps to pass Alyssas Law to increase safety during school shootings

The Illinois Trust Act  which was bipartisan and signed into law by a Republican  is fully compliant with federal law. Despite the rhetoric of Republicans in Congress, this public safety law ensures law enforcement can focus on doing their jobs well while empowering all members of the public, regardless of immigration status, to feel comfortable calling police officers and emergency services if they are in need of help, Alex Gough, spokesperson for Governor Pritzker said in a statement. Governor Pritzker will voluntarily appear before Congress on June 12 to discuss his track record on public safety and the implementation of bipartisan state laws.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This story will be updated.

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.
Chinese Vice President Han Zheng addresses a reception celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and the European Union (EU) in Beijing, capital of China, May 6, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

BEIJING, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Amid the current turbulent international situation, the relationship between China and the European Union (EU) holds increased strategic significance and global influence, Chinese Vice President Han Zheng said on Tuesday.

Han made the remarks when addressing a reception celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and the EU.

Han said that since the establishment of China-EU ties 50 years ago, exchange and dialogue between the two sides have become increasingly close, the integration of interests has deepened, and the scale and level of cooperation have been greatly improved, which has contributed to the development of both sides, and benefited the world.

No clash of fundamental interests or geopolitical conflicts exists between China and the EU, making them partners that can contribute to each other's success, Han said.

He said that both sides should seize the opportunity presented by the 50th anniversary of their ties, uphold their original intentions in establishing diplomatic relations, work to grasp the general trend of their ties accurately, adhere to the established positioning of their partnership, promote the continuous positive development of China-EU relations, and uphold the principles of mutual respect, openness and cooperation, as well as mutual benefits and win-win results.

Before the reception, Han met with former European Council President Charles Michel and representatives of EU envoys to China, noting that China and the EU have fully resumed exchange between their legislatures, providing new impetus for the development of China-EU ties.

Facing the complex and volatile international situation, China and the EU, as two major forces that play stabilizing and constructive roles in the world, should shoulder their due responsibilities, enhance dialogue, deepen cooperation, handle economic and trade differences properly, and work together to safeguard the rules and order of multilateral trade, Han said.

The EU side said that since the establishment of ties 50 years ago, EU-China relationship has become one of the closest relations in the world.

Both sides should review and summarize their experience and inspirations, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, lay a solid foundation for further development of EU-China relations over the next 50 years, and inject stability and certainty into the world, the EU side said. 

Chinese Vice President Han Zheng meets with former European Council President Charles Michel before attending a reception celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and the European Union (EU) in Beijing, capital of China, May 6, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

Chinese Vice President Han Zheng meets with representatives of European Union (EU) envoys to China before attending a reception celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and the EU in Beijing, capital of China, May 6, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Tao)
Wednesdays Top Stories

Wednesdays Five Facts

[1] Albuquerque City councilor calls for U.S. Attorney to investigate use of ARPA funds  A city inspector general report from January stated that nearly $300,000 in federal emergency relief funding meant to help childcare providers instead went to bonuses for 27 city workers. Albuquerque City Councilor Dan Lewis referred the report to then-U.S. Attorney for New Mexico Alex Uballez. Since then, President Donald Trumps Administration has appointed a new U.S. attorney, Ryan Ellison, whom Lewis sent a letter to on Tuesday asking for an investigation.

[2] Rain chances continue for parts of New Mexico into the weekend  Another round of showers and storms will develop Wednesday afternoon, but they wont be as widespread as weve seen the last couple of days. The rain wont be nearly as heavy either. Temperatures will be below average, but a warming trend will be starting. Warmer weather moves in Thursday and Friday with isolated afternoon storm chances mainly over the mountains and in the surrounding areas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

[3] Two men charged with shooting man in Albuquerque  Two Albuquerque 18-year-olds are accused of shooting a man after a fight downtown early Sunday morning. According to APD, Matthew Akugue and Isaiah Martinez said the man gave them dirty looks, and then an argument started. According to Martinez, the man slapped Akugue. After that, APD said they got into a vehicle, pulled up to the man at the roundabout at Central Ave. and 8th St., and Martinez shot him.

[4] How will executive order impact New Mexico PBS and KUNM?  President Donald Trumps executive order would cut federal funding for PBS and NPR. The impact on public radio and TV stations across the country differs, but for New Mexico PBS, it would be a funding loss of 18%. While national PBS leaders are exploring legal options to fight the executive order, theyre also encouraging people to engage in their Protect My Public Media campaign.

[5] Celebration at Los Altos Park after more renovations completed  The city of Albuquerque is officially opening phase two of Los Altos Park after nearly a year of construction. The city is holding a grand opening event Wednesday, May 7, at 5:30 p.m. at the park. The phase two renovations included opening a new BMX pump track, a new dog park, upgraded walkways, landscaping and parking improvements. Animal Welfare Department will be at the event, giving community members an opportunity to adopt a dog.

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 KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  Meteorologists with KRQE News 13 continue to visit schools around the metro area as part of KRQEs Weather Academy. KRQE Chief Meteorologist Grant Tosterud visited Mountain View Elementary School, where he spoke with a group of young students about New Mexicos diverse climate.

The Weather Academy is full for this school year and is not accepting any requests for the 2024-2025 school year. However, KRQE is now accepting requests for the 2025-2026 school year.

Teachers interested in bringing the KRQE Weather Academy to their students can fill out the form here. Also, at this time, the Weather Academy is only available for 2nd  6th graders in the Albuquerque-Metro area.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sponsored content disclaimer: The information and advice displayed in this story are those of individual sponsors and guests and not Nexstar Media Group, inc.

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 KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
VATICAN CITY (KETK)  East Texas radio host and owner of KTBB Paul Gleiser is in Vatican City this week covering the process of electing a new Pope and the challenges hell face.

KTBBs Paul Gleiser visits Vatican City to cover upcoming Papal Conclave

On Tuesday, Gleiser spoke with Father Jordi Pujol about one of the biggest controversies that the new pope will inherit, child sexual abuse within the Catholic Church.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pujol is a professor of communication with the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in the Vatican City. He told Gleiser that ministers who take advantage of their position are diabolic and that the new Pope will need to address this issue from the very beginning of his papacy.

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 KETK.com | FOX51.com.
The L.A. County Fire Department is fighting a decision to reinstate a former Santa Clarita fire captain, who was fired for assaulting his neighbor nearly four years ago, and awarding him more than two years of backpay, the Los Angeles Times reported.

Its unclear what exactly L.A. County Fire Captain Adam Clint, now 51, and his then-neighbor Robert Pope were feuding about, but on July 3, 2021, the situation escalated to violence.

Pope reportedly stopped by Clints home after hearing from his wife that the fireman berated her for speeding on their cul-de-sac in a Santa Clarita neighborhood.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

An argument then ensued in which Clint is said to have pointed a gun at Pope, who is Black, calling him the n-word and telling him to get the F*** off my property, the Times reported.

With his two teenage daughters waiting, Pope said he turned and walked toward his vehicle when he took a blow to the back of the head that knocked him unconscious. Later, he said he also suffered a footprint-shaped bruise on his back.

The L.A. County Fire Station in Santa Clarita where Adam Clint served as captain. (Google Maps)

The captain at first denied to deputies that he struck Pope, but eventually admitted to punching him in the head, an incident that landed him a felony assault conviction.

Security in upscale L.A. apartments lax even after unsolved murder, tenants say

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A judge later reduced the felony to a misdemeanor, which was then removed from his record, according to the Times.

In January 2023, Deputy Fire Chief Thomas Ewald sent Clint a termination notice stating that his conduct embarrassed and discredited the Department and that his felony conviction meant he engaged in conduct unbecoming of a fire captain.

However, in February of this year, the decision to terminate Clint was unanimously overturned by the L.A. County Civil Service Commission, which said there was not enough evidence that Clint had brandished a firearm and used a racial slur during the incident.

In the commissions report, the 51-year-olds behavior on that day was characterized as isolated and uncharacteristic, and suggested punishment be a simple 30-day suspension and an award of more than two years of back pay, according to the Times.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In April, the fire department filed a petition in L.A. County Superior Court appealing the decision, saying the department had every right to terminate the 51-year-old.

In 2022, Clint sued Pope, his wife and L.A. County, arguing officials at the fire department and deputies were preferential toward Pope because of his African American Ancestry, the Times reported, and that he didnt receive due process because he is Caucasian.

Ultimately, the case was dismissed, though a year later, Pope sued Clint for battery and that case remains ongoing.

Reached for comment, Pope told the Times that it would be mind-blowing if Clint got his job back.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If Clint is reinstated in the fire department, it is unclear where hed be assigned.

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.
The only two surviving buildings from Terminal Islands days as a thriving Japanese American fishing village in the early 1900s have been placed on the National Trust for Historic Preservation's 2025 list of America's 11 most endangered historic places.

The designation, announced Wednesday morning, is meant to elevate the visibility of the site, which stands as a physical reminder of a story that ended with the incarceration of the island's residents  among an estimated 120,000 people of Japanese descent, most American citizens, who were forcibly removed following the bombing of Pearl Harbor in World War II.

Today, Terminal Island is part of one of the countrys busiest container ports, and many people don't know that it was the first place from which Japanese Americans were uprooted and sent to government camps such as Manzanar in the Owens Valley.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"It's a story that hasn't been really told," said Los Angeles Conservancy President and Chief Executive Adrian Scott Fine, adding that his organization has been working to preserve Terminal Island's structures for close to two decades. "And if you go there, you're not going to know that unless you stumble across these two buildings and then learn the story, because everything, with the exception of these two buildings, has been cleared away."

The village was home to more than 3,000 people living in small wooden cottages and bungalows. Tuna Street was the main business thoroughfare and home to the two remaining buildings: the dry goods store Nanka Shoten (1918) and the grocery A. Nakamura Co. (1923). The destruction of the village began immediately following its residents' removal in 1942, and over the years more structures were razed as the island grew into an industrial and commercial port.

Historic sites on the annual National Trust list are chosen in part "based on the urgency of the threat, the viability of the proposed solution and the community engagement around the site," said National Trust President and Chief Executive Carol Quillen.

A group of survivors and descendants of the Terminal Island community  the Terminal Islanders Assn., formed in the 1970s  has been crucial to preservation efforts and has partnered with the National Trust and the L.A. Conservancy to propose meaningful and practical preservation solutions. Fine said discussions have included turning the structures into stores selling food and other necessities to port workers, who have few options on the island.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"They were always community-serving, and that would continue the original function and use even today," said Fine, while helping to tell the history.

The Tuna Street buildings are being considered for a historic-cultural monument designation with the city of L.A., a lengthy process that does not totally protect any site from destruction.

The Port of Los Angeles is reportedly considering demolishing the vacant and deteriorating buildings to make room for more container storage. Fine said the port has done a study that found the buildings to not be historic. But razing the buildings, he said, would contradict a master plan that the port hammered out with the L.A. Conservancy in 2013 after the entire island was placed on that year's National Trust list of endangered places.

The report allows the port to conduct a streamlined environmental review leading to demolition, "which they've done for some of the other tuna canneries and structures that were there just in the last 10 years," Fine said. "So in pattern and in practice, we believe that that's very much how they're approaching this one as well."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The National Trust's Quillen said the goal is to highlight "the contributions of these folks to our country's history and economy, and the ways in which this community fought for the rights that we all subscribe to. So when I think about the promise of this country, the ideals that are expressed in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, I want to honor the people whose lives and work exemplified the fight to realize those ideals."

The other 10 sites on the 2025 National Trust list are:



Cedar Key, Fla.

French Broad and Swannanoa River corridors in western North Carolina

Hotel Casa Blanca, Idlewild, Mich.

May Hicks Curtis House, Flagstaff, Ariz.

Mystery Castle, Phoenix

The Chateau at Oregon Caves, Caves Junction, Ore.

Pamunkey Indian Reservation, King William County, Va.

San Juan Hotel, San Juan, Texas

The Turtle, Niagara Falls, N.Y.

The Wellington, Pine Hill, N.Y.

At noon Wednesday, the L.A. Conservancy will hold a virtual program about the history of Tuna Street and efforts to preserve it.

Get notified when the biggest stories in Hollywood, culture and entertainment go live. Sign up for L.A. Times entertainment alerts.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
(FOX40.COM)  California Labor for Climate Justice (CLCJ), a coalition of 16 labor unions, hosted a press conference and rally Tuesday morning, urging lawmakers to pass legislation aimed at strengthening Cal/OSHA.

We are living through a climate crisis. The wildfires are burning hotter and more often. Our air is getting dirtier. And extreme heat is putting lives at risk, said Assemblymember Tina McKinnor.

CLCJ and union members pleaded for California lawmakers to strengthen Cal/OSHAs workplace safety enforcement amid growing climate hazards.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In all seven of the last eight years, California has recorded record high temperatures while workers from our states fields to our commercial kitchens, from our warehouses to our schools continue to work in dangerously high heat conditions, said Norman Rogers, Vice President of United Steelworkers Local 675.

CLCJ is now advocating for its California Worker Climate Bill of Rights. Its a series of senate and assembly bills focused on creating jobs in the low-carbon economy, investing in climate-resilient schools, and granting oil and gas workers training records.

Workers should not be denied of their own records, which they have worked hard to get. Senator Maria Elena Durazo, D-Los Angeles

CLCJs priority is Assembly Bill 694, sponsored by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor. AB 694 aims to ensure Cal/OSHAs enforcement agency is fully staffed with inspectors whove worked in threatening conditions.

Nearly half of its enforcement division is vacant. That means unsafe work sites are going unchecked, said Assemblymember McKinnor. However, Cal/OSHAs current vacancy rate, according to its website, is 23%.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Amber Parrish, Executive Director of United Food and Commercial Workers Western States Council, which represents workers throughout the food chain, says climate bills must be enforced. She mentioned Cal/OSHAs indoor heat requirements are in effect when the indoor temperature is greater than 82 degrees Fahrenheit.

We had one day in L.A. that got about 107 degrees. And inside the store, it was into the 90s, Parrish said. Make sure that if workers are suffering adverse reactions to indoor heat, that theyre able to cool off the temperature of the worksite.

AB 694 also creates pathways for Cal/OSHA to hire union oil and gas workers.

I know from everyday work what is hazardous and what is not, because I can see it, said Laurie Wallace, a refinery worker a Phillips 66. Theres nothing better for me than to have this idea in my head that I can go into another refinery and see something that could potentially be hazardous and correct it, and not only protect the workers, but protect the entire environment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Assembly republicans that we reached out to also expressed bipartisan support for AB 694.

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.
I get it, said Keir Starmer, surveying the smouldering wreckage of his partys local election performance.

Except he plainly doesnt. On his first day back to work after voters delivered a clear rebuke, the Prime Minister returned to Westminster and promptly signed away yet another piece of our sovereignty, this time, via a trade deal with India that quietly but deliberately opens Britains labour market to tens of thousands more low-wage workers. With the stroke of a pen, he has undercut British workers, loosened migration controls, and signalled  once again  that mass immigration is a price hes more than willing to pay for a warm headline and a lukewarm diplomatic handshake.

At election after election, British people have made their views known with increasing clarity: they want immigration brought down  drastically. They voted Conservative in 2010, 2015, 2017, and 2019 on that promise. They voted to leave the European Union to regain control of our borders. And when those promises were broken, they voted to remove us from office. What clearer signal could be sent?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Yet here we are. The message from Downing Street is as garbled and self-defeating as ever: Yes, we understand the concerns. Yes, well get a grip. But heres a new scheme to bring in more people from abroad.

The UK-India trade agreement may bring benefits in the long term  estimated at 5 billion by 2040  yet in practice, it does so at enormous cost and represents a missed opportunity. Firstly it is likely that the measures agreed will add to our already sky-high migration numbers.

The mobility clauses are so generous even though Indian nationals already dominate our visa system, with the number of Indian nationals receiving a work visa rising from 43,000 in 2019 to 160,000 last year. Indeed, one in five foreign workers coming to the UK today is Indian. During the last round of negotiations, when I was Home Secretary, this was the main reason why I objected to the deal. Now, inexplicably, the government has caved: offering tax breaks, relaxed rules, and visa liberalisation as a bargaining chip for marginal trade concessions.

This is not a trade strategy. It is a surrender.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Of course, we want trade. Of course, we want investment. We want to sell our whisky, our financial services and our innovation. But trade deals must be in the national interest, and no trade deal is worth it if the price is a de facto open-door policy.

Secondly, the new agreement exempts Indian workers from paying National Insurance in the UK. This gives them an automatic wage advantage  up to 23 per cent cheaper to hire than a British worker doing the same job. Thats not a level playing field. Thats institutionalised undercutting.

And to those who argue that the Double Contribution Convention is reciprocal, in practice the number of Indian professionals likely to benefit in the UK far exceeds the number of UK professionals working in India because of the greater incentives for Indians to work in the UK. A quick look at comparative salaries tells you all you need to know: the average Indian worker earns 4,000 per year. The motivation to come here is overwhelming, and now formalised in trade policy.

We are told this is fair  after all, we have double taxation treaties with the EU, Canada, and New Zealand. But those countries already have similar wages and labour standards to our own. The logic doesnt hold. There is no precedent for such open-ended access from a vastly different economic context.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is not reciprocity. Its naivety. The Indian delegation are savvy negotiators. They know what theyve wanted for years  visas  and they have been unwilling to concede much else, for instance UK access to Indias famously protectionist legal services sector. Until now, we held firm. But this Prime Minister  so eager to appear internationalist and progressive  has given them what they wanted. And in return? A reduction in whisky and automotive tariffs.

Its hard to avoid the feeling that Britain has given up immigration controls in return for 0.1 per cent GDP growth by 2040.

Let me be clear. I believe in free trade and I love India. Indian blood runs through my veins. I believe in its rise, respect its people, and admire its astonishing economic growth  8.2 per cent GDP growth last year. But admiration does not mean acquiescence. Our job is to serve our own citizens first. That is what governments are for.

Starmer may think this will endear him to internationalists, but it is a slap in the face to Red Wall voters who switched to the Tories in 2019 because they thought someone  finally  was going to stand up for them. He has learned nothing from our collapse because he doesnt get it.

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.
SPRINGFIELD, Mo.  Lakeland Behavioral Health System in Springfield is facing a lawsuit alleging juvenile residents at the facility suffered physical, psychological and emotional injuries as the result of child sexual abuse perpetrated by Lakeland employees.

The personal injury lawsuit filed in Greene County Circuit Court this week says three anonymous Missouri adults  who were juveniles at the time of the alleged incidents  suffered sexual abuse while residents at Lakeland in Springfield.

Former Lakeland staffer sentenced for sexual exploitation of a minor

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the six-count petition, Lakeland was negligent in housing and securing the safety of the three plaintiffs by allowing employees to have unsupervised contact with the victims.

The second count of the petition alleges Lakeland is held liable for the conduct of its employees who committed child molestation, sexual misconduct and sexual abuse against the plaintiffs.

The petitions third count says the alleged assault and battery committed by Lakeland employees against the plaintiffs caused the plaintiffs to suffer mental anguish, trauma, humiliation, embarrassment and more.

The petitions fourth count alleges Lakeland engaged in intentional infliction of emotional distress, and the fifth count says Lakeland was negligent in hiring and retaining its employees.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Additionally, the petitions sixth count alleges Lakeland had negligent supervision over the employees accused of the abuse.

The lawsuit asks for damages over $150,000, as well as other relief that the court deems just.

The petition notes a former Lakeland employee pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor in September of 2024. In addition, the petition says the identities of the plaintiffs abusers are expected to be made known through the course of discovery in the lawsuit.

The plaintiffs are being represented by Elizabeth C. McNulty of the Simon Law Firm in St. Louis.

Ozarks First reached out to Lakeland for comment and have not received a response as of this articles publishing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  A Lakeland woman turned to 8 On Your Side after enrolling in a local nursing program in 2023. She said she did the work, but was it all for nothing?

Im in my 50s, so this was it for me, and thats where my dream was shattered it became a nightmare to me, Margaret Reid said.

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

8 on Your Side

This local mom borrowed $37,000 to further her education, but after failing the schools final course, she said she was told she is out of the program. Now she worries she spent her time and money on a degree shell never have.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Reid has 15 years of experience as an LPN, but she wanted better opportunities and better pay to help her family, so she went back to school to become an RN. Reid said Jersey College in Tampa did not give her a path to finish her degree, but the nursing school disputes those claims.

Hundreds of Tampa apartment residents face water shut off by city for non payment

Reid enrolled in the 15-month nursing program at Jersey Colleges Tampa campus back in May of 2023. The program touts no pre-requisites, that all costs are inclusive, and that the degree is fully accredited. Reid was sold. She took out a $37,000 loan to pay for it. She thought everything was going well until she reached the schools final course.

I dont understand how you can get through an entire program, and I pass every class never had to repeat not one class and then Im done, Reid said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That final course is called leadership. Reid needed a 73 to pass the leadership exam. She got a 71. She said she was stunned.

Nobody can actually prepare you for what those exams are, Reid said. Usually I dont know what youre going to get into because its everything from what you first started, so you dont know what to study.

Reid wanted to know what went wrong so she could learn from her mistakes, but said the schools dean didnt offer any feedback. So, she hired a tutor and took the course again and got another failing grade. Now Reid said she has no nursing degree, but plenty of debt.

Residents evacuated from Clearwater condo after cracks found in pillar underneath building

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If the state board tells you that you can go and take the exam three times and fail it before they make you do remedial, and then they allow you to come back so how can in school that you complete the whole program, just say youre out just like that, I dont get it, Reid said.



8 On Your Side reached out to Jersey College for answers. A spokesperson shared this statement about the program. The school said that the leadership course is required to take the final National Council Licensure Examination, or NCLEX:

Jersey College is deeply committed to supporting our students so they are prepared to provide top-notch medical care to our community. Our faculty upholds rigorous academic standards to foster excellence and integrity, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for safe nursing practice. Jersey Colleges Tampa campus has graduated more than 2,000 nurses since our opening in 2008. More than 90% of our students pass the NCLEX exam on their first attempt. In addition to the Tampa campus, Jersey College also has a number of hospital-based campuses offered in coordination with leading Florida healthcare systems. These campuses exist largely due to the quality of the Colleges programs and the student-centric focus of our institution. A significant number of our graduates have been employed at Floridas best healthcare facilities such as Tampa General Hospital, BayCare, Moffit Cancer Center, and more, a testament to the quality of our programs. In Summer 2024, 21 of 22 students in Tampa passed the referenced nursing course. Despite three months of subsequent one-on-one remediation, the non-passing student failed the course a second time. Since Fall 2023, only 1 other of the 82 students who took the course faced a similar outcome. We only award degrees when students demonstrate safe practice and competency in nursing.

You might have a 90% passage rate, but what are the percentages of students that are not even getting through? Reid said. I have more years behind me than I have in front of me. I dont have another 56 years to decide to go into another program or another 40 grand. I need to have answers. I need someone to reach out to me.

Reid said she believes there must be another way to help students who have succeeded in every course except this final one, so that they can still earn their nursing degrees.

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.
KUALA LUMPUR, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The first group of future maintenance workers for the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), a mega rail project in Malaysia being built by the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), will soon head to China for specialized training, Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook said here on Tuesday.

A total of 210 trainees are scheduled to leave on May 15. They will receive training in theoretical and practical aspects and gain real-world experience in operating rail systems, Loke said in a ceremony marking the launch and submission of Industrial Skills Training Program offer letters for the ECRL operations and maintenance phase.

"Developing physical infrastructure is important to ensure we do not overly rely on external expertise in the long term. Our priority is to ensure job opportunities for our local talent," he said, adding that the trainees who complete the program will be guaranteed employment with the ECRL.

For his part, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia needs to build domestic economic resilience by enhancing knowledge and expertise among its youth to better face global challenges.

"Although we use foreign technologies, we must seek new methods, and this depends on our young people. With clear policies, it means we rely more on our abilities to revitalize local businesses, management and expertise," he said at the ceremony.

The ECRL runs from Malaysia's largest transport hub, Port Klang, and travels across the peninsula to Kelantan state in northeastern Malaysia.

The rail link is expected to greatly enhance connectivity and bring more balanced growth to the country by linking its less-developed region on the east coast to the economic heartland on the west coast upon its completion. 
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  A plan to reconnect the Mississippi River to its wetlands, build new land, and restore dying estuaries is on life support.

The Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion Project has paused after Governor Jeff Landry paused the work and the Army Corps of Engineers pulled the permit.

Polls show that the majority of Louisianans support the project. Every aspect of Mid-Barataria has been reviewed by experts and the $3 billion dollar project is funded by the Deepwater Horizon settlement. This project is recognized by some as the keystone of the Coastal Master Plan.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I have worked internationally and here in Louisiana and one thing I tell people is that Louisiana has the most sophisticated coastal restoration plan, not just in the Gulf and U.S., but in many ways across the world, said Fulbright Geologist Alex Kolker.

This project started in 2007, it has been vetted by the best scientists, engineers across the world, not just America, said Founder of Women of the Storm, Anne Milling. People from Vietnam to Amsterdam have looked at the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion. Its been scrutinized every which way and has been considered the most important project that the Master Plan could possibly undertake for Louisiana.

Why is there so much land lost in Coastal Louisiana?

Louisiana experiences coastal land loss, which is triggered by humans and natural forces. Levees and flood control structures on the Mississippi River have provided flood control and economic benefits. However, these forms of river management have also channeled the Mississippi River and its tributaries into the Gulf of Mexico, depriving the broader coastal ecosystem of the fresh water and nutrient-rich sediment it needs to survive.

Dredging canals for oil and gas exploration and pipelines provided our nation with critical energy supplies, but these activities also took a toll on the landscape, weakening marshes and allowing saltwater to invade deeper into coastal basins. Sea level rise, land subsidence, severe storms, and invasive species add further stress.

What is the purpose of the plan?

The Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion (MBSD) project was identified in Louisianas 2012 Master Plan for a Sustainable Coast (Master Plan) as a critical project for restoring and rebuilding coastal Louisiana. The projects purpose is to divert sediment-laden water from the Mississippi River to the Mid-Barataria Basin. By re-establishing a connection between the Mississippi River and the Basin, the project will mimic historic deltaic sediment deposition to build, maintain, and sustain critical coastal lands.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The state has lost at least 1,900 square miles of land since the 1930s and the latest projections show we stand to lose in the range of 1,800 to 4,200 additional square miles of land. The impacts of coastal land loss threaten Louisianas economy, commerce, infrastructure, and culture. The collapse of coastal Louisiana would negatively impact the entire country, we protect infrastructure that supplies 90% of the nations outer continental oil and gas, 20% of the nations annual waterborne commerce, 26% (by weight) of the continental U.S. commercial fisheries landings, winter habitat for five million migratory waterfowl.

Latest 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 Louisiana First News.
HONOLULU (KHON2)  The popular Kaiwa Ridge Trail, better known as the Lanikai Pillbox Trail, will be closed from 6 to 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 7, as crews carry out the first round of treatment to combat Little Fire Ants (LFA) in the area.

Panaewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens proposes new admission fees

Although the invasive ants havent been found directly on the trail, recent surveys detected them on the eastern slope of the ridge. Several state and local agencies  including the Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW), the Oahu Invasive Species Committee (OISC), and the Hawaii Department of Agriculture  are teaming up to tackle the issue before it spreads.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To reach the steep terrain, the team is using drones provided by Aloha Aina Drones to apply the treatment from the air.

Drone technology is advancing our efforts to move this site from an active infestation to eradication, said Erin Bishop, outreach coordinator for OISC. Its a faster, safer, and more cost-effective way to cover these large, rugged areas.

Trail stewards from DOFAWs Na Ala Hele program will be stationed at the entrance to inform hikers and encourage them to return after the trail reopens at 10 a.m.

Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

This is just the first in a series of eight scheduled treatments planned over the next nine months. Each treatment will involve a short morning closure. Backup dates are scheduled in case of weather delays. Future closures are set for:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

June 18 (backup: June 20)

July 30 (backup: Aug. 1)

Sept. 10 (backup: Sept. 12)

Oct. 22 (backup: Oct. 24)

Dec. 3 (backup: Dec. 5)

Jan. 14, 2026 (backup: Jan. 16)

Feb. 25, 2026 (backup: Feb. 27)

As of April, more than 80 Little Fire Ant infestations have been identified across Oahu. Crews have already successfully treated outbreaks in communities like Mililani-Mauka, Kaneohe, Kailua, and Manoa, thanks to a coordinated effort between public agencies and nonprofits such as Hui o Koolaupoko and the KEY Project.

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

Were thrilled to move forward with this innovative approach with the support of DOFAW, Bishop said. Without it, the threat of LFA spreading into nearby neighborhoods and recreational areas would remain. This is a big step forward in protecting our communities and natural environment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) Lansing Superintendent Ben Shuldiner is again a finalist for a similar job, this time with Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) in Kentucky. This is where Louisville is located.

In February, Shuldiner was a top candidate for the Clark County School District (CCSD) in Las Vegas but was not selected for the position.

Ben Shuldiner (Left), Dr. H. Brian Yearwood (Right)/ Jefferson County Public Schools

Lansing superintendent not selected for Las Vegas job

Jefferson County Public Schools said the school board, along with the help of its Superintendent Screening Committee, chose Shuldiner and the other finalist, Dr. H. Brian Yearwood, out of 34 applicants.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Jefferson County School Board member Taylor Everett said it is very clear Shuldiner has done a great job in Lansing and that the next step in the interview process happens on May 19. On that day, the finalists will have a third interview with the School Board.

Everett said that the finalists will have a 2-hour meeting with members of the public the day after, where people can ask questions, and that he is most interested to see how the meeting with the Louisville community goes.

When you have time to prepare for a small group, thats one thing. Everett continued, Being sent questions where you dont know what people are going to say in a strange place, that says a lot about someone. So I do think seeing them in that situation will go a long way, said Everett.

The seven-person school board will vote on who the next superintendent will be on May 23.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Shuldiner has led the Lansing School District since 2021. He was previously a deans fellow and distinguished lecturer in New York, NY, at Hunter College. While at Hunter College, he was a board member for the largest school district in the US, New York City.

His previous experience also includes history department chair, teacher, and then Principal in Brooklyn, NY for 10 years. He was also the longest-serving president of the Association for Curriculum Development.

6 News has reached out to Supt. Shuldiner and the Lansing School District, but have yet to receive a comment from either.

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.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) calls it the largest fentanyl bust theyve ever made, and New Mexico played a major part. They seized more than two million pills in Albuquerque alone, and federal agencies say the drug ring responsible spanned five states.

Story continues below

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I wanted all of these amazing agents and prosecutors up here on stage, said United States Attorney General Pam Bondi. The nations top prosecutor stood alongside New Mexicos top prosecutor, highlighting a major multi-state bust with connections to Albuquerque and Santa Fe. This case involved coordinated efforts from federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement agencies across multiple states, said Ryan Ellison, U.S. Attorney, District of New Mexico.

That operation spanned across New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, and Oregon, where the federal agents seized three million fentanyl pills as part of a coordinated raid in late April, with the majority of those drugs in New Mexico. In Albuquerque alone, authorities seized staggering quantities of illegal drugs and assets, including over 2.7 million fentanyl pills, 11.5 kilograms of concentrated fentanyl powder, 7 pounds of methamphetamine, said Ellison.

Agents also recovered 49 firearms, including automatic rifles and ghost guns, along with $600,000 in cash. Phillip Lovato, 39, is one of the suspects now facing charges, accused of having 110,000 fentanyl pills in his Santa Fe home.

The feds claimed 25-year-old Misael Lopez Rubio had around 360 pounds of fentanyl in containers in a northeast Albuquerque storage unit. Robert Herrera, 31, is accused of having 365,000 fentanyl pills in his northwest Albuquerque apartment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The DEA said 16 people were arrested, including the man whom the feds believe is the ringleader, Heriberto Salazar Amaya, with ties to the Mexican cartel. All defendants face serious federal charges related to conspiracy and distribution of fentanyl, along with additional charges for firearms offenses and immigration violations in certain cases, said Ellison.

Of the 16 arrested so far, 14 of them are facing federal charges ranging from fentanyl trafficking to weapons charges to conspiracy.

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 KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
CHICAGO, Ill. (WTVO)  An Illinois watchdog group says Nicors request for an exorbitant $308.6 million rate hike should be halved.

If approved by the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC), Nicors request would represent the largest gas rate hike in state history and would increase gas bills by about 9%.

Nicor has said the rate hike would increase average gas bills by about $7.50 a month, or $90 a year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Nicor Gas bid for a record-breaking rate hike is rife with excess and fat, and is more than double what the company can possibly justify, said CUB communications director Jim Chilsen.

Nicor has made 5 requests for rate hike increases since 2017, raising delivery rates by 114%, according to CUB.

In 2023, the Commission warned Nicor it would need to plan for a gas system that meets Illinois decarbonization goals. Two years later, that change is not happening fast enough, said Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) Senior Attorney Curt Stokes. EDF, along with our allies, has filed testimony charting a better course. It is our hope that Nicor will take our suggestions seriously and update its plan; if not, we will ask the Commission to order them to.

CUB says a review of the rate hike proposal was conducted by a Missouri firm that found that more than $111 million would go to Nicor shareholders and executive bonuses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This testimony exposes Nicors bald-faced attempt to capture exorbitant shareholder profitsan all-too-familiar theme for the utilitys customers who have already suffered from exorbitant rate hikes in recent years, said CUB Executive Director Sarah Moskowitz. We urge the ICC to stand up for Nicor customers and slash the utilitys request for a record rate hike.

NOTE: This version of the story fixes a typo which said gas bills would increase $900 a year, instead of $90.

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.
(WSPA)  The National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) is set to host the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive on Saturday, May 10.

According to organizers, the event is the largest, single-day food drive event in the nation.

VIDEO ABOVE: Fill the Cruisers Food Drive benefits Upstate families

The NALC is a labor union that represents letter carriers who work for the United States Postal Service (USPS).

The food drive started 33 years ago. So far, more than 1.9 billion pounds of food have been collected by letter carriers. In 1993, the drive saw all 50 states participate with a record-breaking 11+ million pounds of food collected in one day.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Every second Saturday in May, letter carriers collect non-perishable food donations from people across the country.

Donations, the NALC said, go to local food pantries.

Its not shipped off to some regional distribution center hundreds of miles away, the NALC said. If you want to know where your donation is going, call your local post office and ask to speak to your local food drive person.

According to the NALC, the timing of the food drive is crucial, as food banks and pantries receive the bulk of food donations during the winter holiday season.

By springtime, many pantries are depleted, entering the summer low on supplies at a time when many school breakfast and lunch programs are not available to children in need, a union representative said.

How you can help

Those interested in participating in the food drive can leave non-perishable food donations in a bag next to your mailbox on Saturday, before your carriers usual pick up time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Non-perishable food items include:

Cereal

Pasta

Pasta sauce

Rice

Canned fruits

Canned vegetables

Canned meals (soups, chili, pasta)

Canned protein (tuna, chicken, turkey)

Canned or dry beans

100% juice

Peanut butter

Macaroni and cheese

Oatmeal, or other whole grains

Canola oil

Olive oil

Organizers asked that people refrain from donating frozen food, homemade food, home-canned items, expired food or food that comes in glass containers.

A good rule of thumb is to have the bags by your mailbox by 9 a.m., the NALC said. Officials said letter carriers will handle the rest.

People can verify food collections with their local NALC branch. To find a branch near you, click here.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cant find a local branch? Contact your local post office or email communityservice@nalc.org.

If your donation is not picked up, union officials said to contact your post office or put donations in your mailbox on Monday, May 12.

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.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Human trafficking and homeless youth were topics at Metro polices First Tuesday event in the northeast Las Vegas valley.

Jenny Fay, Director of Community Engagement & Development with the non-profit, Olive Crest, an organization that aims to prevent child abuse, shared with attendees the steps a trafficker typically takes when trying to gain control  Befriend, intoxicate, alienate, isolate, desensitize and capitalize.

Fay said it is important to note that, Intoxicate could mean more than just alcohol.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When a victim doesnt feel seen at home and their trafficker suddenly sees them, tells them they are pretty or cool. The victim can become intoxicated by the attention, she said.

Fay also explained how when someone alienates themselves, its typically on an emotional level, whereas isolation tends to be physical.

Many times, these traffickers make the victim question their own sanity.

Youth homelessness is a big issue that not a lot of people know about it, Juletta Thiessen, Community Engagement Coordinator with Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth said.

Thiessen noted that human trafficking and homelessness oftentimes go hand in hand.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is often sudden, unexpected and no fault of the child as 1 in 3 kids will become a victim of human trafficking within 48 hours of becoming homeless, she explained.

Reasons as to why children become homeless vary, but oftentimes, family neglect and or abuse are the biggest factors.

Here in Las Vegas, theres over 13,000 youth experiencing homelessness enrolled in Clark County schools and even though that number is far too high, it under represents the true issue that we have, Thiessen added.

Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth provides beds across the valley for children in need. In addition to a drop-in center where these kids can access services like meeting with case managers and learn essential life skills. It is the only youth shelter in Southern Nevada that takes unaccompanied minors.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If your child comes home with something you did not buy them, like a cell phone or necklace, make sure to find out where it came from. Gifts are one of the top ways these traffickers try to connect with children, Fay said

If you suspect that someone is being sex trafficked, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888.

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.
CHICAGO  When President Donald Trump took office and declared Chicago ground zero for the largest deportation operation in U.S. history, Alma Duran, 43, said her 10-year-old twins asked why their classes at an elementary school in Pilsen were deserted.

She told them some kids and parents were scared to come in for fear of getting detained and deported, and she explained the concept of the United States border to her children for the first time  that they were born in Chicago and had documents that some of their classmates might not have.

And even then, my kids were like, How is this possible? How can they be so afraid that they dont even want to come to school?  Mommy, you always say going to school is good. How is it not good now for some friends? Duran remembered them asking her.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trumps hard-line immigration policy has taken a deep emotional toll on communities with large undocumented populations. And though attendance at Perez has slowly recovered in the months since Trump took office, fear and anxiety linger among parents, teachers and students at some Chicago public schools.

Data obtained by the Tribune through a Freedom of Information Act request shows that attendance rates fell at all schools across the district the week of Jan. 20, when the 47th president was sworn in. Over 50% of students attending the 10 schools that experienced the biggest attendance drops are Latino, according to enrollment data on the districts website.

The names of the schools are being withheld at Chicago Public Schools request, out of concern for potential retaliation from the federal government.

While the district has taken steps to respond, parents and those working with students describe the effect of Trumps immigration policy changes as insurmountable. It will likely have long-term effects, they say.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Students carry a heavy burden worrying about whether their parents will be swept up by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Meanwhile, the counseling support they need to relieve their worry is spread thin, said Roy, a teacher at a South Side elementary school whose last name is not being used out of safety concerns for his students.

We do have counselors, but they dont speak Spanish, he said. Thats a resource that a lot of schools need now, especially with newcomers.

CPS did not respond to a request for comment.

Emotional toll

Headlines about young U.S. citizens being deported by ICE have trickled into school settings, said Ana Espitia, a local school council member and crossing guard at an elementary school in Little Village, a neighborhood known for its strong Mexican American culture.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One migrant kindergartner has repeatedly come to school in tears, worried immigration officials might arrest his mom or dad, and that he wouldnt see them again, Espitia said.

A lot of times, kids use being sick as an excuse. They say they have a headache, or their stomach hurts, Espitia said.

In some cases, students are bullying each other, saying they hope Trump will deport the other, according to Rocio Becerril, an immigration attorney who is an authorized vendor with CPS. She referenced an 11-year-old who died from suicide in Texas amid deportation rumors at school.

This anti-immigrant sentiment is (likely) coming from their parents, Becerril surmised. But for that information to get to them is disheartening.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Becerril leads Know Your Rights presentations to CPS parents and said that in recent weeks, fewer people have attended those sessions.

People just curl up and pull away, she said. Theres so much information out there, and theres so much misinformation.

Inauguration Day

Parents recounted a significant psychological effect on their kids at a Back of the Yards elementary school where two U.S. Department of Homeland Security officials tried to enter on the Friday after Trumps inauguration. The district sparked a panic when it falsely proclaimed ICE agents had tried to enter the building.

Theyre going to deport everyone who has our skin color, an Ecuadorian migrant student, Aaron, said to his mom, Mary, at dismissal outside the school three days later, as she quieted his nerves.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Roy, the teacher at the South Side elementary school, teaches a class of all bilingual second-grade students, many of whom stayed home the last two weeks of January, which began with Trumps inauguration. It was unusual, he said, because before those weeks, his students had almost perfect attendance. And it coincided with standardized testing, he said.

A Tribune review of CPS attendance data at Roys school confirmed his account.

It was definitely difficult for teachers to continue instruction as normal, he said. Its not something that these (students) should be worried about.  They should be focused on their learning.

There are students in his classroom from Venezuela, Honduras, Guatemala and Mexico, and he said they are resilient. He tries to maintain routines and positivity with their families.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The district does not track the citizenship status of its students because federal law states that all children in the United States, including immigrants, have the right to a public education.

CPS officials attributed the decline in attendance on Jan. 22, after the four-day weekend, to concerns about immigration enforcement across the city, while recognizing other factors, such as unusually cold weather, illness and transportation barriers.

Attendance at schools that experienced the biggest drop in the first week has steadily returned to a normal range, according to the data obtained by the Tribune.

Ongoing concerns

Outside a high school in Little Village on a recent afternoon in April, Kimberly Atencia confirmed that she kept her son home during the first two weeks of Trumps presidency. Atencia, who is from Colombia, said the school serves a large population of migrants who arrived on buses from the southern border in August 2022.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The school had one of the highest attendance drops. It experienced a roughly 20% decline in average attendance rates between the week before and after Trump was inaugurated. The same weeks in previous years did not experience the same fluctuation, data shows.

The numbers here have mostly returned to normal, Atencia said. But immigration enforcement activity in the area still sometimes makes people stay indoors.

In April, such immigration enforcement acts included emailed notices from the Department of Homeland Security instructing migrants to leave the U.S. or the government will find you, numerous asylum-seekers told the Tribune.

The notices state that DHS is exercising its discretion to terminate parole, a form of legal entry that was expanded under the administration of former President Joe Biden.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They were sent to individuals, including U.S. citizens, seemingly without reason, said Nubia Willman, former deputy chief of staff and director of the Office of New Americans under ex-Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot. The notices have caused some people to self-deport, Willman said.

Because everyones situation is different, its important folks get a consultation from a licensed attorney or accredited representative to make sure they are making decisions based on facts, she said.

To help families with CPS students who received notices cope with an overwhelming amount of uncertainty, Juan Carlos Ocon, the principal of a high school in Pilsen, sent an email reviewed by the Tribune to his student body on April 15, urging his schools community to continue to lead with empathy and support.

If your student or someone in your family has received this letter  please inform me immediately, he wrote. I will personally meet with the student/family and ensure they are connected with an attorney who can help them understand their rights and navigate the process.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Asked for comment, Ocon did not respond.

Quelling grief and anxiety

The district is taking proactive measures to make sure schools are safe places, where fear is left at the door, said Bianca Ramos, senior mental health consultant at Luries Children Hospitals Center for Childhood Resilience. She partners with the CPS Office of Social Emotional Learning to lead trainings for school counselors, clinicians and other staff members who directly work with kids.

Schools reach out to parents proactively, rather than waiting for families to come to them, Ramos said. Theyve adjusted their signage and provided virtual and other more flexible scheduling options for classes.

When we talk to kids, we make sure that theyre limiting their media exposure or speaking to trusted adults so that they can get the resources and the support that they need, she said.

Nonprofit organizations and other groups have also stepped in, but say that more needs to be done.

Children dont often have the language to express their anxieties, said Silvia Rodriguez Vega, author of Drawing Deportation: Art and Resistance Among Immigrant Children.

Vega spent 10 years researching immigrant children in Arizona and California to provide accounts of childrens challenges with deportation under previous presidential administrations.

She suggested that schools provide more art-making opportunities for immigrant students. All children are naturally creative, she said, but those from low-income families often lack access to various art forms.

Art can be literally a lifeline when they face a lot of uncertainty, a lot of fear, like many children currently do, Vega said.

In January, ICE visited the apartment complex where Rossyel Ward, a migrant from Venezuela, has settled in Chicago, she said. She wasnt home at the time, but said she heard from her neighbors, who are also migrants. She has two kids who attend an elementary school in Pilsen, and although she was terrified, she sent them to school anyway.

I cant pass that fear on to my children, she said. It would stay with them.

Under Trump, she said, she feels the authoritarianism in a different way than what she experienced in Venezuela under the government of President Nicolas Maduro.

She joined a parent mentor group at her kids school that she said gives her strength. They reach out to other migrant families who are scared.

You cant really form an opinion based on the politics of the government thats receiving you  you just have to adjust to it, she said. As migrants, we have to make do.
VATICAN CITY (AP)  Black smoke was pouring out of the Sistine Chapel chimney, indicating no pope was elected on the first ballot of the conclave to choose a new leader of the Catholic Church.

More than 130 Catholic cardinals on Wednesday began the secretive, centuries-old ritual to elect a successor to Pope Francis, opening the most geographically diverse conclave in the faiths 2,000-year history. Two by two, the cardinals entered the Sistine Chapel chanting the meditative Litany of the Saints as Swiss Guards stood at attention.

Here is the latest:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Black smoke pours from Sistine Chapel chimney, indicating conclave hasnt elected pope

The smoke billowed out at 9 p.m. Wednesday, some four hours after 133 cardinals solemnly entered the Sistine Chapel, took their oaths of secrecy and formally opened the centuries-old ritual to elect a successor to Pope Francis to lead the 1.4 billion-member church.

With no one securing the necessary two-thirds majority, or 89 votes, the cardinals will retire for the night to the Vatican residences where they are being sequestered.

They return to the Sistine Chapel on Thursday morning.

 Read more about the conclave to pick the next pope

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Frustration and confusion is growing in St. Peters Square with no sign of a vote taken

It comes more than four hours after the cardinals entered the Sistine Chapel.

Several times the crowd applauded as if to urge the cardinals on.

Some gave up and began drifting away as dinner time approached and a chill set in after sunset.

The cardinals arent required to hold a vote Wednesday but there was an expectation that they would do so.

Conclave watching over an aperitivo in an Italian cardinals hometown

Caffe Centrale on the main drag of the Veneto, hometown of Cardinal Pietro Parolin, a papal favorite, filled up with locals and journalists awaiting the first sign of smoke Wednesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A large TV screen displayed images from St. Peters Square and the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel, where 133 cardinals were casting the first votes for pope, as locals in the Veneto town of Schiavon, near Vicenza, quaffed glasses of wine.

Conclave watching, it turns out, is the perfect aperitivo activity.

Were waiting, and were rooting for him, said Giacomo Bonora raising a glass of the local favorite, a red-wine spritz, and using the local nickname for Parolin, Don Piero.

Bonora said Parolin never wanted to be called Eminence, the honorific for cardinals, when he came to town, but asked to be addressed as if a local priest: Don Piero.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Waiting for the first smoke signal

People filled the crowd of St. Peters Square as cardinals were locked in the Sistine Chapel, taking what was expected to be their first vote to choose a new pope.

They were waiting for smoke to waft from a chimney over the chapel: black for votes that fail to get a winner or white when they have one.

Tom Hallett, 65, came to Rome from Florida to witness the election of a pope.

I feel he will be Italian since it hasnt been like that since 1978, he said. He didnt really expect to see white after the first vote, but came anyway: It will be Gods choice.

Myra Beye, 25, who hails from the Philippines but has lived in Rome many years, was expecting the election of Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

So thats why Im here today, to support him, even though my prayers will be with whoever is elected, she said.

Mystery surrounds who sewed the next popes robes

One of Romes ecclesiastical tailors, Raniero Mancinelli, said Wednesday that he delivered three white cassocks to the Vatican on Tuesday. He said he saw a photograph released by the Vatican of the papal vestments prepared for the new pope, but it could not tell if they were his or not.

Meanwhile, it was the first time in nearly half a century that Gammarelli, which has been crafting attire for clergy for six generations and has long been recognized as the official papal tailor, did not get a conclave order.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lorenzo Gammarelli has refused to speculate why, but Italian media reports suggest the Vatican may have had enough unused cassocks on hand and wanted to honor Pope Francis environmental legacy.

Mancinelli, founded in the 1960s, is an ecclesiastical tailor just a few steps from the Vatican, while Gammarelli is across the Tiber River near the Pantheon.

The strict choreography of casting a single vote

The voting follows a strict choreography, dictated by church law.

Each cardinal writes his choice on a paper inscribed with the words Eligo in summen pontificem, or I elect as Supreme Pontiff. They approach the altar one by one and say: I call as my witness, Christ the Lord who will be my judge, that my vote is given to the one who, before God, I think should be elected.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The folded ballot is placed on a round plate and slid into an oval silver and gold urn. Once cast, the ballots are opened one by one by three different scrutineers, who note the names down and read them aloud. Cardinals can keep their own tally on a sheet of paper provided but must turn their notes in to be burned at the end of voting.

The scrutineers then add up the results of each round of balloting and write the results down on a separate sheet of paper which is preserved in the papal archives.

As the scrutineer reads out each name, he pierces each ballot with a needle through the word Eligo and binds the ballots with thread and ties a knot. The ballots are then put aside and burned in the chapel stove along with a chemical to produce either black or white smoke, to signal a winner has been found.

The conclave to elect a new pope officially begins as the door to the Sistine Chapel closes

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The conclave to elect a new pope has officially begun, with a Vatican official calling out extra omnes and the door to the Sistine Chapel shutting.

The Latin expression means all out and signals all those who arent eligible to vote for a new pope to leave the Sistine Chapel.

The order, delivered Wednesday by Archbishop Diego Ravelli, allows the beginning of voting to elect the 267th pope to follow Pope Francis, historys first Latin American pontiff.

The Holy See(gull)

While all eyes will be on the Sistine Chapel chimney to see if black or white smoke emerges, viewers watching live streams of the smoke stack have taken a special interest in a seagull sitting on the roof nearby.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bird has been in live video shots for hours, along with a chick that also entered the video frame.

One user on X noted that she, just like the seagull, was also seated, waiting for results of the papal election.

 Watch the live stream papal conclave

Security checks at St. Peters Square

Those hoping to witness the election of the next pope from St. Peters Square must first pass through security checks.

As the conclave began, lines were forming at metal detectors at the squares entrances. Once a new pope is elected, hell appear on the balcony above the square to be introduced to the world.

For now, the checks remain relatively quick, but wait times are expected to grow once the white smoke appears. Italys Civil Protection agency estimates that up to 250,000 people could flood the square and Via della Conciliazione, the wide boulevard that leads from the Vatican to the Tiber River, to welcome the new pontiff.

Sense of expectation is building ahead of historic moment

Crowds were filling St. Peters Square as cardinals prepared to elect the next pope.

People from all faiths are captivated by the ancient ritual playing out. But the sense of meaning is obviously most profound for Catholic believers.

Father Ignacio Palacios, a professor and priest in the diocese of Toledo, Spain, took part in a Mass in St. Peters Basilica ahead of the conclave and observed others taking photos with cardinals  especially with those seen as having the best chances to emerge from the conclave as pope.

He described a a strong sense of expectation.

Its nice to feel this strong sense of faith and belonging, he said. We are aware of the fact that we are witnessing a historic moment.

Cardinals electing the next pope begin processing into the Sistine Chapel to open the conclave

As they processed into the chapel adorned with Michelangelos The Last Judgement, the 133 cardinals chanted the meditative Litany of the Saints. A line of Swiss Guards stood at attention.

The hymn implores the saints to help the cardinals find a new leader of the 1.4 billion-strong Catholic Church.

Cardinals are preparing to enter the Sistine Chapel. Heres what will happen inside

At 4:30 p.m. (1430 GMT; 10:30 a.m. EDT), the cardinals will walk into the Sistine Chapel, chanting the meditative Litany of the Saints and the Latin hymn Veni Creator, imploring the saints and the Holy Spirit to help them pick a pope.

Once there, they pledge to maintain secrecy about whats about to transpire and to not allow any interference from outsiders to influence their voting.

Standing before Michelangelos vision of heaven and hell in The Last Judgment, each cardinal places his hand on the Gospel and swears to carry out that duty. The awesomeness of the chapels frescoes, and Michelangelos in particular, is meant to remind the cardinals of the weighty responsibility they bear.

After the cardinals take their oaths, a senior cardinal delivers a meditation. The master of papal liturgical ceremonies, Archbishop Diego Ravelli, calls out Extra omnes, Latin for all out. Anyone not eligible to vote then leaves and the chapel doors close, allowing the work to begin.

Kenyan Cardinal John Njue confirms hes not participating in the conclave

He cited poor health but also insisted he never received an invitation to attend.

The former head of the Catholic Church in Kenya found himself at the center of controversy this week after the local newspaper Daily Nation quoted him as saying he hadnt received an invitation to attend. The Vatican had said Njue wouldnt be participating due to health issues, one of two cardinals under age 80 who didnt come to Rome to participate.

Cardinals who are eligible to vote in a conclave dont need an invitation, but they usually receive a formal communication announcing the conclaves date and procedures.

Njue told The Associated Press he hadnt received any letter indicating he needed to attend. But he also gave poor health as another reason for staying home.

The current archbishop of Nairobi, Archbishop Philip Anyolo, said earlier this week that Njue had been invited but wouldnt attend due to poor health. Anyolo said in a statement that the official invitation had been received through the Vaticans embassy in Nairobi.

A womans place is in the conclave

A group of women lit pink smoke flares on a hill behind the Vatican on Wednesday in protest against the male-dominated Catholic church just hours before 133 men gather in the Sistine Chapel to choose the next pope.

While the world may be waiting for white or black smoke, our pink smoke is a signal that women should be included in every aspect of the life of the Church, said Kate McElwee, executive cirector of Womens Ordination Conference, adding, A womans place is in the conclave.

The women said they have been arrested in the past when they have brought their protests closer to St. Peters Square so they were holding their pink smoke event on the Ganicolo Hill behind the Vatican with the cupola on St. Peters Basilica visible in the distance.

A cardinal by any other name

As the cardinals prepare for the start of the conclave, many wonder if the next pontiff's name will be Petrus, Robertus or Ioannes? Maybe Claudius or Christophorus? Or perhaps Timoteus?

The crowds should be prepared to hear it first not in a cardinal's native Italian, French, Spanish or other tongue, but in Latin.

The new pope will be announced with the Latin proclamation: Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: Habemus Papam! (I bring you tidings of great joy: We have a pope!)

That will be immediately followed by the revelation of his birth name, in Latin, followed by the papal name he has chosen, also in Latin.

If the first word uttered is Petrus, that could refer to several cardinals whose names are some version of Peter, including Pietro Parolin, Peter Turkson and Peter Erdo. Also, several of the cardinals' names include some version of Ioannes, or John.

Mass ahead of the start of the conclave is over

A morning Mass in St. Peters Basilica has concluded, allowing the cardinals who will elect the next pope to return to their residences for a few hours ahead of the conclave.

Later in the afternoon, the Vatican has said that all communications around the Holy See will be jammed as they prepare to withdraw from the outside world for their secret and sacred task ahead.

The cardinals are likely to cast their first vote later on Wednesday. Assuming no one is elected, black smoke would be expected out of the Sistine Chapel chimney at around 7 p.m.

The cardinals will then retire for the night and return on Thursday morning. They can hold up to two ballots in the morning and two in the afternoon until a winner is found.

While cardinals this week said they expected a short conclave, it will likely take at least a few rounds of voting.

A prayer for a young pope

Lisette Herrera, a 54-year-old tourist from the Dominican Republic, was deeply moved to find herself by chance in the heart of Roman Catholicism as the church plans to select a new pope.

On Wednesday morning, she decided to skip seeing the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain and other sites to pray in St. Peters Square and wait for a new pope, even though she realizes there is no telling how long the conclave could take.

Im praying the Holy Spirit for a young pope who would stay with us for a long time, she said. I dont believe in conclave politics, I just feel that the Holy Spirit is here and thats all we need to know.

Rome on high alert ahead of the conclave

The Vaticans Swiss Guards and Italian carabinieri and police have been mobilized as Rome and the wider world hold their breath to see who will emerge from the conclave as the next pontiff.

As of Wednesday morning, when cardinals attended a special pre-conclave Mass in St. Peters Basilica, police were carrying out enhanced checks of people entering St. Peters Square.

Over 4,000 officers have been deployed, with an anti-drone system and signal jammers to block communication between the cardinals and the outside world once they enter into their secret assembly.

The safety of the cardinals is a priority, but so is that of the faithful outside, said Fabio Ciciliano, head Italys Civil Protection agency.

A please to choose a pope who prizes unity in diversity

A senior cardinal has urged the cardinals who will vote in the conclave to elect a pope who prizes unity in diversity, and puts personal interests aside.

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, outlined the marching orders for the 133 men who will enter the Sistine Chapel later on Wednesday to begin voting to elect a new pope.

In his sermon at the final pre-conclave Mass at St. Peter's Basilica, Re reminded the cardinals that a conclave represented the highest human and church responsibility, and that they must set aside every personal consideration.

He said the new pope should foster communion and unity within the church.

A final pre-conclave Mass

Cardinals have entered St. Peters Basilica on Wednesday to celebrate the final Mass before the conclave to elect a new pope.

The dean of the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re, is celebrating the Mass and leading the prayers for cardinals to find the wisdom, counsel and understanding to choose a worthy new shepherd.

Re, 91, had presided at Francis funeral two weeks ago, delivering a heartfelt sermon recalling historys first Latin American pope and the reforming 12-year papacy he oversaw.

Later in the day, the cardinals will sequester themselves in the Sistine Chapel to begin casting their ballots.

How the voting works

The electors cast paper ballots, and voting continues until one candidate receives a two-thirds majority, or 89 votes. After two rounds of voting, ballots are burned in a special stove  black smoke signals no decision, while white smoke means a new pope has been chosen.

The last few popes have been elected within a few days, but there is no formal deadline. Electors must be under 80, and are more geographically diverse than ever.

They represent Catholicisms growing presence in Africa, Asia and Latin America, as well as its traditional power base in Europe.

Prayers in the Philippines for another pope good for poor people

Nearly 100 people in a slum in Manila, the Philippine capital, were praying Wednesday for the conclave to elect another pope who will reach out to the poor.

Rev. Robert Reyes told the crowd in a small chapel surrounded by shanties in suburban Quezon city that the next pope should be humble and inclusive, like Francis.

Francis was such a unique person open to all, specially to those who are neglected, forgotten, marginalized, rejected and oppressed, said Reyes.

The Philippines, the largest Roman Catholic nation in Asia, has long been plagued by poverty and inequality.
This photo taken on May 6, 2025 shows a view inside the former site of the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in south Poland.

The Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, in the suburbs of the Polish city of Oswiecim, 300 km from the capital Warsaw.

Comprising over 40 camps and sub-camps, it was the biggest of the more than 1,000 concentration camps built by the Third Reich during the World War II. At least 1.1 million people were killed there.

The camp was liberated by the Soviet Army on Jan. 27, 1945, a date now recognized globally as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

This photo taken on May 6, 2025 shows a view inside the former site of the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in south Poland.

The Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, in the suburbs of the Polish city of Oswiecim, 300 km from the capital Warsaw.

Comprising over 40 camps and sub-camps, it was the biggest of the more than 1,000 concentration camps built by the Third Reich during the World War II. At least 1.1 million people were killed there.

The camp was liberated by the Soviet Army on Jan. 27, 1945, a date now recognized globally as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

This photo taken on May 6, 2025 shows a view inside the former site of the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in south Poland.

The Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, in the suburbs of the Polish city of Oswiecim, 300 km from the capital Warsaw.

Comprising over 40 camps and sub-camps, it was the biggest of the more than 1,000 concentration camps built by the Third Reich during the World War II. At least 1.1 million people were killed there.

The camp was liberated by the Soviet Army on Jan. 27, 1945, a date now recognized globally as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

This photo taken on May 6, 2025 shows a view inside the former site of the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in south Poland.

The Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, in the suburbs of the Polish city of Oswiecim, 300 km from the capital Warsaw.

Comprising over 40 camps and sub-camps, it was the biggest of the more than 1,000 concentration camps built by the Third Reich during the World War II. At least 1.1 million people were killed there.

The camp was liberated by the Soviet Army on Jan. 27, 1945, a date now recognized globally as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

This photo taken on May 6, 2025 shows a view inside the former site of the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in south Poland.

The Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, in the suburbs of the Polish city of Oswiecim, 300 km from the capital Warsaw.

Comprising over 40 camps and sub-camps, it was the biggest of the more than 1,000 concentration camps built by the Third Reich during the World War II. At least 1.1 million people were killed there.

The camp was liberated by the Soviet Army on Jan. 27, 1945, a date now recognized globally as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

People visit the former site of the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in south Poland, on May 6, 2025.

The Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, in the suburbs of the Polish city of Oswiecim, 300 km from the capital Warsaw.

Comprising over 40 camps and sub-camps, it was the biggest of the more than 1,000 concentration camps built by the Third Reich during the World War II. At least 1.1 million people were killed there.

The camp was liberated by the Soviet Army on Jan. 27, 1945, a date now recognized globally as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

This photo taken on May 6, 2025 shows a view inside the former site of the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in south Poland.

The Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, in the suburbs of the Polish city of Oswiecim, 300 km from the capital Warsaw.

Comprising over 40 camps and sub-camps, it was the biggest of the more than 1,000 concentration camps built by the Third Reich during the World War II. At least 1.1 million people were killed there.

The camp was liberated by the Soviet Army on Jan. 27, 1945, a date now recognized globally as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

This photo taken on May 6, 2025 shows a view inside the former site of the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in south Poland.

The Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, in the suburbs of the Polish city of Oswiecim, 300 km from the capital Warsaw.

Comprising over 40 camps and sub-camps, it was the biggest of the more than 1,000 concentration camps built by the Third Reich during the World War II. At least 1.1 million people were killed there.

The camp was liberated by the Soviet Army on Jan. 27, 1945, a date now recognized globally as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

People visit the former site of the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in south Poland, on May 6, 2025.

The Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, in the suburbs of the Polish city of Oswiecim, 300 km from the capital Warsaw.

Comprising over 40 camps and sub-camps, it was the biggest of the more than 1,000 concentration camps built by the Third Reich during the World War II. At least 1.1 million people were killed there.

The camp was liberated by the Soviet Army on Jan. 27, 1945, a date now recognized globally as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

This photo taken on May 6, 2025 shows a view inside the former site of the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in south Poland.

The Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, in the suburbs of the Polish city of Oswiecim, 300 km from the capital Warsaw.

Comprising over 40 camps and sub-camps, it was the biggest of the more than 1,000 concentration camps built by the Third Reich during the World War II. At least 1.1 million people were killed there.

The camp was liberated by the Soviet Army on Jan. 27, 1945, a date now recognized globally as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

This photo taken on May 6, 2025 shows a view inside the former site of the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in south Poland.

The Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, in the suburbs of the Polish city of Oswiecim, 300 km from the capital Warsaw.

Comprising over 40 camps and sub-camps, it was the biggest of the more than 1,000 concentration camps built by the Third Reich during the World War II. At least 1.1 million people were killed there.

The camp was liberated by the Soviet Army on Jan. 27, 1945, a date now recognized globally as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

People visit the former site of the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in south Poland, on May 6, 2025.

The Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, in the suburbs of the Polish city of Oswiecim, 300 km from the capital Warsaw.

Comprising over 40 camps and sub-camps, it was the biggest of the more than 1,000 concentration camps built by the Third Reich during the World War II. At least 1.1 million people were killed there.

The camp was liberated by the Soviet Army on Jan. 27, 1945, a date now recognized globally as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

This photo taken on May 6, 2025 shows a view inside the former site of the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in south Poland.

The Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, in the suburbs of the Polish city of Oswiecim, 300 km from the capital Warsaw.

Comprising over 40 camps and sub-camps, it was the biggest of the more than 1,000 concentration camps built by the Third Reich during the World War II. At least 1.1 million people were killed there.

The camp was liberated by the Soviet Army on Jan. 27, 1945, a date now recognized globally as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

This photo taken on May 6, 2025 shows a view inside the former site of the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in south Poland.

The Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, in the suburbs of the Polish city of Oswiecim, 300 km from the capital Warsaw.

Comprising over 40 camps and sub-camps, it was the biggest of the more than 1,000 concentration camps built by the Third Reich during the World War II. At least 1.1 million people were killed there.

The camp was liberated by the Soviet Army on Jan. 27, 1945, a date now recognized globally as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

This photo taken on May 6, 2025 shows a view inside the former site of the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in south Poland.

The Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, in the suburbs of the Polish city of Oswiecim, 300 km from the capital Warsaw.

Comprising over 40 camps and sub-camps, it was the biggest of the more than 1,000 concentration camps built by the Third Reich during the World War II. At least 1.1 million people were killed there.

The camp was liberated by the Soviet Army on Jan. 27, 1945, a date now recognized globally as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

People visit the former site of the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in south Poland, on May 6, 2025.

The Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, in the suburbs of the Polish city of Oswiecim, 300 km from the capital Warsaw.

Comprising over 40 camps and sub-camps, it was the biggest of the more than 1,000 concentration camps built by the Third Reich during the World War II. At least 1.1 million people were killed there.

The camp was liberated by the Soviet Army on Jan. 27, 1945, a date now recognized globally as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

A man takes photos while visiting the former site of the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in south Poland, on May 6, 2025.

The Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, in the suburbs of the Polish city of Oswiecim, 300 km from the capital Warsaw.

Comprising over 40 camps and sub-camps, it was the biggest of the more than 1,000 concentration camps built by the Third Reich during the World War II. At least 1.1 million people were killed there.

The camp was liberated by the Soviet Army on Jan. 27, 1945, a date now recognized globally as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

This photo taken on May 6, 2025 shows a view inside the former site of the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp in south Poland.

The Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was established by the German Nazis in 1940, in the suburbs of the Polish city of Oswiecim, 300 km from the capital Warsaw.

Comprising over 40 camps and sub-camps, it was the biggest of the more than 1,000 concentration camps built by the Third Reich during the World War II. At least 1.1 million people were killed there.

The camp was liberated by the Soviet Army on Jan. 27, 1945, a date now recognized globally as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)
A federal judge found the Trump administration cant deport migrants to Libya  a country with a history of human rights violations  unless they have a meaningful chance to challenge their removal in court.

Wednesdays order from U.S. District Judge Brian E. Murphy in Massachusetts comes after attorneys said immigration authorities informed migrants of plans to deport them to Libya.

The Latest:

Judge orders more information on Trump administration deal with El Salvador

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

District Court Judge James E. Boasberg said he needed the information from the administration to determine whether the roughly 200 men, deported in March under an 18th century wartime law, were still effectively in the United States custody. If they are, Boasberg could order their return, as immigration lawyers have asked him to do.

Boasberg noted that Trump had boasted in an interview that he could get back one man wrongly imprisoned in El Salvador in a separate case by simply asking that countrys president, Nayib Bukele, to send him back.

The governments lawyer, Abishek Kambli, said that and other public statements by administration officials about their relationship with El Salvador lacked nuance.

House Republicans are backing off some  but not all  Medicaid cuts

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

House Republicans appear to be backing off some, but not all, of the steep reductions to the Medicaid program as part of their big tax breaks bill.

House Speaker Mike Johnson is running into resistance from more centrist GOP lawmakers opposed to ending health care coverage for their constituents back home.

A new report out Wednesday from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office shows millions of Americans would lose Medicaid coverage under the various proposals being circulated by Republicans as cost-savings measures.

House Republicans are scrounging to come up with as much as $1.5 trillion in cuts to health care, food stamps and other programs, to offset the revenue lost for some $4.5 trillion in tax breaks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 Read more about Medicaid cuts

Trump says hell decide what to call the Persian Gulf while in the Middle East

Trump says he will make a decision about how the U.S. government will refer to the body of water commonly known as the Persian Gulf when he visits Arab states next week.

The president told reporters Wednesday that he expects his hosts will ask him about the U.S. officially calling the waterway the Arabian Gulf or Gulf of Arabia.

He was asked about the possible name change after The Associated Press reported Tuesday that two U.S. officials familiar with the matter said Trump would announce the change while he was on the trip. The report generated outcry from Iranians, who said the Persian Gulf moniker is thousands of years old and an essential part of Irans history.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 Read more about what Trump said about the Gulfs name change

Pro-Trump network to provide Voice of America with content, Kari Lake says

The Trump administration has sought to dismantle government-run news outlets like the Voice of America, in part because it believes the services that provide news to other countries operate with a liberal bias.

Now, Kari Lake, Trumps representative at the U.S. Agency for Global Media, says the conservative One America News Network has agreed to provide its news and video feeds free of charge.

Lake portrays it as a boon to taxpayers while critics say it ensures steady pro-Trump coverage.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Court cases on the future of Voice of America and similar services Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty have left them in limbo.

 Read more about the announcement

FBI director says bureau needs more funding than what Trump administration budget proposal calls for

FBI Director Kash Patel is breaking with the Trump administration over a budget proposal that would dramatically slash funding for the bureau.

We need more than what has been proposed, he told lawmakers at a hearing Wednesday.

The 2026 budget proposal released Friday calls for a funding cut of more than $500 million for the FBI as part of what the White House said was a desire to reform and streamline the bureau and reduce non-law enforcement missions that do not align with Trumps priorities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Patel warned that such a cut would be harmful for the FBI as it reorients priorities to focus on violent crime.

 Read more about what the FBI director said about the proposal

US must allow migrants a chance to challenge in court any deportations to Libya, judge says

The order from U.S. District Judge Brian E. Murphy in Massachusetts comes after attorneys said immigration authorities informed migrants of plans to deport them to Libya, a country with a history of human rights violations.

Murphy previously found that any migrants deported to countries other than their homelands must first be allowed to argue that it would jeopardize their safety. He said any allegedly imminent removals would clearly violate this Courts Order.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 Read more about the judges order

Trump taps wellness influencer close to RFK Jr. for US surgeon general

Trump is tapping Casey Means, a wellness influencer with close ties to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., as his nominee for surgeon general after withdrawing his initial pick for the influential health post.

The president said in a social media post that Means has impeccable MAHA credentials  referring to the Make America Healthy Again slogan  and that she will work to eradicate chronic disease and improve the health and well-being of Americans.

Trump withdrew former Fox News medical contributor Janette Nesheiwat for U.S. surgeon general, marking at least the second health-related pick from Trump to be pulled from Senate consideration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 Read more about Trumps pick

Khalil attorney praises judge for seeking history of provision behind clients deportation case

The judge overseeing Columbia activist Mahmoud Khalils deportation case has asked the governments attorneys to produce a rundown of every time federal officials have deployed the obscure provision of immigration law behind Khalils possible removal from the U.S.

The provision authorizes the Secretary of State to deport those whose presence in the country is found to carry the potential of serious adverse foreign policy consequences.

Baher Azmy, an attorney for Khalil, praised the federal judge for seeking the information on the Immigration and Nationality Act, since to our knowledge it has barely ever been used in the past 50 years until now when it is being rolled out indiscriminately to target constitutionally protected speech under the fatuous claim of foreign policy interests.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Legal scholars say the rarely invoked provision requires extensive judicial review and is intended for unusual circumstances in which a noncitizens presence in the U.S. could set off diplomatic turmoil.

Judge in Khalils deportation case assigns history report to government attorneys

The obscure provision of immigration law at the heart of Trumps crackdown on student activists is now the subject of an unusual assignment handed down by a federal judge to the governments attorneys: produce a history report, due tomorrow.

U.S. District Judge Michael Farbiarz said the government should list each instance, other than this one in which federal officials used a provision of the law authorizing the Secretary of State to deport those whose presence in the country is found to carry the potential of serious adverse foreign policy consequences.

Farbiarz is considering whether to free Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist at Columbia University who became the first person to face deportation under the Trump administrations interpretation of the law.

The governments report is due Thursday morning, the judge wrote in the Wednesday order. The Department of Homeland Security and Department of State did not respond to emails seeking comment.

EPA targets Energy Star program focused on appliance efficiency

An Environmental Protection Agency plan to eliminate its Energy Star offices would end a decades-old program that gave consumers a choice to buy environmentally friendly refrigerators, dishwashers and other electronics, consumer and environmental groups said.

EPA launched Energy Star in 1992 with the goal of tackling environmental protection and economic growth. It boosts the market for energy-efficient products and benefits companies that design appliances that earn the label.

The changes, outlined in agency documents reviewed by The Associated Press, are part of a broad reorganization at EPA that would eliminate or reorganize significant parts of the office focused on air pollution.

 Read more about EPAs plan

Fed chair says Trumps public calls for rate cuts not influencing policy

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said pressure by Trump to cut benchmark interest rates will have no impact on the central banks policy choices.

It doesnt affect either our job or the way we do it, Trump said at a Wednesday press conference.

Trump has said inflation is falling and the Fed should cut its short-term rates in response, maintaining that he could fire Powell but that he has no plans to do so.

The Fed judges inflation to still be elevated and that Trumps tariffs create a risk of both higher prices and higher unemployment.

Frank Bisignano is sworn as the 18th Social Security commissioner

Bisignano has served as chair of Fiserv, a payments and financial services tech firm since 2020.

His arrival at the Social Security Administration comes after a series of changes have been made to the agency in the past four months, including mass federal worker layoffs, cuts to programs, office closures and a planned cut to nationwide Social Security phone services, which were eventually walked back.

President Trump has been clear about Social Security. We will protect it, Bisignano said. We will make the Social Security Administration a premier organization.

Trump says the US hasnt decided whether to allow Iran to continue a civilian nuclear enrichment

Trump says he hasnt decided yet whether to allow Iran to maintain a nuclear enrichment program even if it commits not to purify Uranium to weapons-grade, as his administration engages with talks with Tehran meant to end its advancing weapons program.

We havent made that decision yet, he told reporters in the Oval Office. We will, but we havent made that decision yet.

Earlier Wednesday, Vice President JD Vance said Iran can have civil nuclear power, We dont mind that, but then said that no regime in the world has civil nuclear power and enrichment without a nuclear weapon and cannot have the kind of enrichment program that allows them to get to a nuclear weapon.

Trump says he expects to be asked during Mideast trip for US to call Persian Gulf the Arabian Gulf

Theyre going to ask me about that when I get there and Ill have to make a decision, Trump said when asked if he planned to make an announcement that the U.S. will officially refer to the waterways as the Arabian Gulf or Gulf of Arabia during his visit to the Middle East next week.

The AP reported on Tuesday, citing two U.S. officials familiar with the matter, that Trump would announce the U.S. he was making the move. The officials were not authorized to comment publicly and spoke on the condition of anonymity.

Trump told reporters on Wednesday that he expected to receive a briefing on the matter and would then make a decision.

Trump says Gaza development is coming in next day or so

Ahead of his first trip to the Middle East since taking office on Jan. 20, Trump says theres a lot of talk going on about Gaza and that his administration will soon have more to say about a new proposal  that may include a new push for a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, the release of hostages and an influx of aid to Palestinians.

Youll be knowing probably in the next 24 hours, Trump told reporters in the Oval Office.

We take their word for it.

Trump finished his remarks in the Oval Office by saying he expects the Houthis in Yemen to uphold their commitment to stop firing on cargo vessels in the Red Sea.

Hopefully thats over with, and theyll leave those ships alone, he said. We take their word for it.

The president had previously announced an end to the U.S. bombing campaign in Yemen.

Trump said we hit them very hard and they took tremendous punishment.

Trump on India-Pakistan conflict: So terrible

The president called the escalating conflict between India and Pakistan so terrible and urged both sides to stop the violence.

Its so terrible, Trump said. My position is, I get along with both. I know both very well and I want to see them work it out.

He added: If I can do anything to help, I will be there.

Federal Reserve leaves key rate unchanged as it sees risk of higher prices and higher unemployment

The Federal Reserve kept its key interest rate unchanged Wednesday, brushing off Trumps demands to lower borrowing costs, and said that the risks of higher unemployment and higher inflation have risen.

The Fed kept its rate at 4.3% for the third straight meeting, after cutting it three times in a row at the end of last year. Many economists and Wall Street investors still expect the Fed will reduce rates two or three times this year, but the sweeping tariffs imposed by Trump have injected a tremendous amount of uncertainty into the U.S. economy and the Feds policies.

It is unusual for the Fed to say that the risk of both higher prices and more unemployment have increased. But economists say that is the threat created by Trumps sweeping tariffs.

Trump said it was disappointing to learn of senators objection to top DC prosecutor

The president said he didnt know about the objections of North Carolina Republican Sen. Thom Tillis despite the senator saying publicly a day earlier that he had informed the White House that he would not support Ed Martin to lead the U.S. Attorneys office in Washington.

Tillis also told Trump directly, according to an aide for the senator.

Trump called Martin  very talented but said votes on the nominee are really up to the senators.

They have to follow their heart, and they have to follow their mind, he said.

Trump says he wont reduce tariffs on China in order to have negotiations

Trump said no when asked if he would reduce his 145% tariffs on Chinese goods as a condition for negotiations.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer are set to meet with their Chinese counterparts this weekend in Switzerland.

China has made the de-escalation of the tariffs a requirement for trade negotiations, which the meetings are supposed to help establish.

Trumps comments suggest the worlds two largest economies could be at an impasse.

Trump looking at exempting baby products from tariffs

Sales associate Charlotte Santoli unpacks strollers and other inventory ordered by customers ahead of tariff-driven price increases at the Union Market location in Washington, on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Nathan Howard)

Trump says hes looking at exempting baby-related products from his tariffs, but he said he doesnt want to complicate his import taxes.

I dont know, Trump told reporters at the White House. Ill think about it.

While Trump said he would look at the matter, he said he wanted to keep his import taxes very simple and exemptions could make an already complex process even more indecipherable. He said that nobody knows the policy if there are so many exemptions.

Trump says its a disservice that US doesnt celebrate victory in World War II

Trump opened a swearing-in ceremony for his new U.S. ambassador to China by noting that World War II allies are spending the week celebrating the wars end with parades and other festivities but that America has never joined in with a proper celebration of our own.

We dont celebrate it, and I think thats a great disservice, the Republican president said from the Oval Office.

Trump issued a proclamation Wednesday designating Thursday as a day to celebrate victory in World War II.

He didnt elaborate on what he expects people to do to observe the 80th anniversary of the end of that conflict.

Perdue sworn in as China envoy

The president held a ceremony to swear in David Perdue, his recently confirmed pick for U.S. ambassador to China.

Our new ambassador brings to this position a lifetime of experience at the highest levels of business and politics, Trump said. Say hello to President Xi when youre over there, please."

Perdue was confirmed on a 67-29 vote last month. He was one of Trumps most stalwart supporters in the Senate, starting with his 2016 presidential campaign.

I am glad to be your man in China, Perdue said.

Final 2024 election fight ends in North Carolina Supreme Court race

Republican challenger Jefferson Griffin conceded his 734-vote loss for a North Carolina Supreme Court seat to Democratic incumbent Allison Riggs, two days after a federal judge ruled that potentially thousands of disputed ballots challenged by Griffin must remain in the count.

That ended Griffins more than six-month challenge to the vote count in the November election. Even with his loss, Republicans retain a 5-2 majority on the state Supreme Court.

The Supreme Court race was the last undecided race in the country. The Associated Press called more than 4,800 winners in the 2024 general election.

Read about the race

Why the tariff picture may seem more confusing

The more Trump talks about his efforts to reach deals with Americas trading partners, the more confusing the tariff picture gets. His team seems good with that, saying Trump is using strategic uncertainty to his advantage.

Trump says the U.S. doesnt have to sign any deals, but he also says the U.S. could sign 25 of them right now. He says hes looking for fair deals on all sides, but also that he doesnt care about other countries markets. He says his team can sit down to negotiate the terms of a deal, and that he might just impose a set of tariffs on his own.

Read more about how the trade talks may play out

Trump administration rescinds layoff notices to CDC program for 9/11 responders

The Trump administration has rescinded layoff notices to about 15 workers in a federal program that cares for 9/11 responders and survivors.

The layoff notices went out last week, setting an end to the World Trade Center Health Program at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The program provides medical monitoring and treatment of 9/11-related health conditions for about 133,000 people, and was one of the few parts of the CDCs National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health that has not been eliminated in recent staffing or budget cuts.

The workers got notices Tuesday that their employment will continue.

A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services confirmed the reversal. When asked for the reason, he said there are issues with human resources records.

-By Mike Stobbe

Trump endorses Rep. Mike Lawler  just not for the office the congressman has been eyeing

Trump said hes backing the Republican for reelection in his New York swing district, writing on Truth Social that HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!

But Lawler isnt up for reelection until next year and has been teasing a potential run for governor for months. Meanwhile, Rep. Elise Stefanik, passed over for ambassador to the United Nations, is considering campaigning for governor and has been encouraged to run by major New York donors, state Republican officials and White House officials, AP has reported.

Lawler is grateful for the Presidents support, his spokesperson said in a statement, but added: As Congressman Lawler has said repeatedly, he will make a decision on running for Governor in June.

Trump designates Thursday as a day for US to celebrate victory in World War II

Trump has complained on social media that the U.S. doesnt celebrate its military victories like the rest of the world. He said hed create a Victory Day for World War I and World War II, then backtracked and said hed declare national holidays instead.

Trump signed a proclamation on Wednesday declaring Thursday as a day in celebration of Victory Day for World War II.

Cities from London to Moscow will be awash with parades, flyovers and memorials this week as the world marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day  the day Nazi Germany surrendered to Allied forces. World War II ended May 8, 1945.

Trump said the victory wouldnt have been possible without the U.S.

Millions of people would lose Medicaid under Republicans changes, nonpartisan budget office says

Their plans could reduce the federal deficit by hundreds of billions of dollars, but states would be left to pick up costs, too. Medicaid is a joint program run by states and the federal government.

Republicans are considering a menu of options including reducing the federal share, which is as much as 90% in some cases  and capping federal spending on each Medicaid enrollees health care.

Those two changes could result in more than 5 million people becoming uninsured, the Congressional Budget Office announced Wednesday morning.

Treasury secretary is testifying for a second day on Capitol Hill

Scott Bessent is now before the House Financial Services Committee to discuss international financial systems.

Hes also been asked about the looming X-Date when the U.S. could default on its debt, Chinas economic influence, Russia sanctions and his participation in a Signal chat group with other Trump administration officials.

As for cryptocurrency in the U.S., Bessent said, we believe the United States should be the premier destination for digital assets  so that U.S. best practices are best used around the world.

A digital assets project called World Liberty Financial that Trump launched while campaigning has taken in billions of dollars from investors around the world.

RFK Jr. announces researchers will get access to data from autistic Medicare, Medicaid enrollees

The nations health department is launching a research project that will examine claims data and electronic medical records of Medicaid and Medicare enrollees who have been diagnosed with autism.

The program will involve a data sharing agreement between the National Institutes of Health, the governments health research arm, and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, which has access to claims data from nearly 150 million Americans across the country.

Were using this partnership to uncover the root causes of autism and other chronic diseases, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said in a statement.

The agreement will be fully compliant with privacy and security laws, the department said in its statement.

Turkish Tufts University student detained by ICE can be sent to Vermont, appeals court rules

The 2nd Circuit Court appellate panel ruled in favor of Rumeysa Ozturk, whose lawyers sought her return to New England for hearings to determine whether her detention violates her constitutional free speech and due process rights.

The 30-year-old doctoral student has been detained in Louisiana for six weeks following an op-ed she cowrote last year criticizing the universitys response to Israels war in Gaza. A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said without providing evidence that Ozturk had engaged in activities in support of Hamas, a U.S.-designated terrorist group.

The Justice Department argued that an immigration court in Louisiana has jurisdiction. The court ordered Ozturks transfer to ICE custody in Vermont no later than May 14.

US special envoy to informally brief UN Security Council members on aid to Gaza

Steve Witkoff is in New York to provide the unofficial briefing, according to a U.S. and a U.N. diplomat who spoke on condition of anonymity to disclose private diplomatic meetings.

For more than two months, Israel has blocked any food, water, shelter or medication from being trucked into the Palestinian territory, where the U.N. says the vast majority of the population is reliant on humanitarian aid to survive. Israel alleges that Hamas was diverting supplies.

The U.S. is supporting a proposal for a new independent foundation to facilitate aid deliveries within the confines set by Israel, but it would not be an Israeli project, according to a person involved in the planning, who also spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss a plan not yet made public.

Its unclear if Witkoff will be discussing this foundation in his briefing. The Security Council, with the exception of the U.S., has criticized Israels blockade.

 By Farnoush Amiri and Matthew Lee

Wisconsin Republican will miss House votes, cancels town hall due to credible threat

Rep. Derrick Van Orden canceled a planned tele-town hall on Wednesday and will be missing votes in the House due to a credible threat made against his wife, children, and grandchildren, his office said.

The threat was delivered in a letter to his Washington office and has been reported to the authorities, his office said, blaming increasingly radical and violent rhetoric fueled by far-left Democrats who encourage hatred rather than healthy discourse.

The second-term, swing-district representative called on both Democrats and Republicans to fully condemn it when they see it.

Federal judge orders release of pandemic aid money for schools

Trumps Education Department has frozen the last of the U.S. relief money meant to help schools recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The vast majority of the $189 billion in aid approved by Congress has been spent, but some districts received extensions on deadlines to spend the money, and some were using it for things like after-school tutoring.

On March 28, Education Secretary Linda McMahon sent a letter to schools saying she had moved the deadline up to that day. Several states and the District of Columbia sued in response, leading to the court order.

Vance talks free speech, Ukraine at security conference

The vice president spoke Wednesday at a meeting held in Washington by the Munich Security Conference, which also hosted a February summit in Germany where Vance ruffled feathers by declaring that free speech is in retreat across the continent.

Vance said Wednesday that his comments were not meant to imply Europe bad, America good, but that both Europe and the U.S. under Biden had gotten a bit off track when it comes to protecting free speech.

He said the administrations next goals for brokering an end to the Russia-Ukraine war is to get both sides to start directly negotiating a long-term settlement.

GOP legislators push restrictions on citizen initiatives

Lawmakers in about a dozen states have advanced roughly 40 measures this year that would make it harder for citizen initiatives to get on ballots. Many already have been signed into law. The measures limit who can circulate petitions, add content requirements and in some cases raise thresholds needed for voter approval.

Republican lawmakers are making these moves in states where voters have been able to decide on initiatives proposed by progressive groups.

This is not a bill to restrict. It is a bill to protect  to make sure that our constitutional system is one of integrity, and that its free of fraud, said state Sen. Jennifer Bradley of Florida, where the new initiative requirements already have been challenged in court.

But Dane Waters, chair of the Initiative and Referendum Institute at the University of Southern California, sees direct democracy on the retreat in many states. Lawmakers often perceive the initiative process as an assault on their power and authority, and they want to limit it, Waters said.

Ahead of Trumps visit, Disney announces a new theme park in the UAE

The theme park  Disneys 7th  will be built on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, the company said Wednesday.

Trump has promised a series of business deals with Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates during his trip to the region next week.

Disney posted solid quarterly profits and revenue from its theme parks and streaming service on Wednesday, boosting its annual profit expectations. But its not immune from Trumps trade war, including his threat of a 100% tariff on films made outside the U.S., and Trumps Federal Communications Commission said its scrutinizing the companys diversity practices.

China says it agreed to US request for talks but remains opposed to tariffs

Upcoming trade talks between the U.S. and China have been initiated by Washington, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Wednesday in Beijing.

Chinas position of firmly opposing the arbitrary imposition of tariffs by the U.S. has not changed, said spokesperson Lin Jian. And while Beijing is open to dialogue, he repeated that any talks must be based on equality, respect and mutual benefit.

Any form of pressure or coercion against China will not work, Lin said. China will firmly safeguard its legitimate interests and uphold international fairness and justice.

Trump plans to announce that the US will call the Persian Gulf the Arabian Gulf, officials say

The president plans to announce while on his trip to Saudi Arabia next week that the U.S. will now refer to the Persian Gulf as the Arabian Gulf or the Gulf of Arabia, according to two U.S. officials who spoke with The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to discuss the matter.

Arab nations have pushed for a change to the geographic name of the body of water off the southern coast of Iran, while Iran has maintained its historic ties to the Gulf. The U.S. military for years has unilaterally referred to the Persian Gulf as the Arabian Gulf in statements and images it releases.

The Persian Gulf has been widely known by that name since the 16th century, although usage of Gulf of Arabia and Arabian Gulf is dominant in many countries in the Middle East. The government of Iran  formerly Persia  threatened to sue Google in 2012 over the companys decision not to label the body of water at all on its maps.

The White House and National Security Council did not immediately respond to messages seeking comment.

-By Matthew Lee

 Read more about Trumps expected announcement
HONOLULU (KHON2)  Its Law Week and today were discussing the District Court, which handles cases such as traffic crimes.

Kilaueas episode 20 ends after dramatic lava fountains; eruption now paused

According to Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Susan Chon of the City and County of Honolulu, District Court hears both civil and criminal cases. Prosecutors handle the criminal cases, which in District Court can generally be divided into traffic crimes and other crimes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Traffic crimes include things like driving without a license, driving without motor vehicle insurance, DUIs (also known as operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant), and excessive speeding where the speed exceeds the amount for a regular non-criminal speeding ticket.

Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

Other crimes include things like harassment, assault, minor thefts, and trespassing. Prosecutors also handle traffic infractions essentially, regular traffic tickets.

An example of a regular traffic ticket that involves a prosecutor could be driving alone in the HOV lane during designated hours or driving with a mobile device.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chon says District Court participants are generally allowed to attend court via Zoom. Nearly all of our District Courts, specifically on Oahu, are still hybrid  allowing court participants to appear either in person or via Zoom.

Some proceedings, like trial for example, must be attended in person. Most status or pretrial conferences, however, may be held over Zoom or in person.

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

But if a judge orders you to appear in person, you definitely want to be there in person.

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.
Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa, speaks during a swearing-in ceremony Nov. 20. (Photo by Emma Murphy/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  A Democratic lawmaker, who is battling breast cancer, said Wednesday that she plans to try to override the governors veto of a bill designed to improve access to diagnostic screening of the disease.

Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa, said Gov. Kevin Stitts veto of House Bill 1389 generated a lot of shock and felt personal even though shes well through the diagnostic screening process for her own breast cancer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She said that close to 1 in 6 Oklahoma women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, which is above the national average.

The measure sought to add contrast-enhanced mammograms and molecular breast imaging to the list of diagnostic examinations that insurance companies must cover without patient cost-sharing. Supporters said such diagnostic tests are essential to early detection, treatment and improved outcomes.

Provenzano said lawmakers in 2022 passed legislation requiring the coverage of diagnostic mammograms, but she has since discovered that access to the same machines depends on where you live.

Ive also fielded call after call from women who say their insurance companies are pushing back on coverage, despite what the law says, Provenzano said in a statement. In the simplest of terms, HB 1389 clarifies the language so no matter where you live  be it Guymon, Tulsa or Broken Bow, your access to care is there. This bill seeks to make sure every woman can get care, regardless of her zip code.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Her bill was one of four vetoed Tuesday by Stitt.

I am deeply sympathetic to the women across our state who have bravely fought breast cancer, Stitt wrote in his veto message. While early detection and access to care are critical priorities, this legislation imposes new and costly insurance mandates on private health plans that will ultimately raise insurance premiums for working families and small businesses.

He wrote that mammograms are already covered, and doctors are empowered to order further tests that can be covered by insurance.

Sen. Brenda Stanley, R-Midwest City, the Senate author, said she felt sincere disappointment over the veto of a measure that she believes is life-saving.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

House Bill 1389 aimed to ensure that all Oklahomans, especially those at higher risk or with a family history of breast cancer, had access to affordable and comprehensive breast cancer screenings, she said in a statement. This legislation was vetoed due to the belief that the provision of this care could contribute to higher insurance premiums, although the reality is that the costs of providing preventative screenings are minuscule when compared to the costs to treat late-stage disease.

She pledged to continue to work until every man and woman can access the care without also enduring financial hardship.

Before heading to Stitts desk, the measure passed unanimously through the House and by a 34-11 vote in the Senate. It would take a vote of two-thirds of lawmakers in both chambers to override Stitts veto.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
DENVER (KDVR)  Lawmakers are set to wrap up their work at the state capitol for this year on Wednesday, but before that happens, they are working on measures related to artificial intelligence.

One bill is close to passing the finish line and another bill is dying as things settle down.

State leaders say artificial intelligence is advancing faster than they can regulate it. One bill looking to do that will head to the governor, but its not the one he was pushing for.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When an intimate image is posted online in which part of it has been tweaked and through AI or other digital means, the law is silent. So in order to be able to prosecute these individuals, we need to bring forward Senate Bill 288 to update the law, said State Representative Matt Soper.

Immigration protections bill heads to Colorado governors desk

Senate Bill 288 is a step closer to the governors desk after representatives passed the measure Tuesday afternoon.

The measure looks to crack down on explicit deepfake images. Deepfakes are created by digitally altering peoples faces and bodies to look like someone, often with malicious intent. The bill that just passed the House Wednesday would penalize the person who creates a graphic image like that of another person: introducing a misdemeanor for most cases or a class six felony for cases where the image was used to influence an election, a judicial or legislative proceeding or if it poses a serious threat to the person depicted.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It also creates an avenue for the person whose image was used to sue for up to $150,000. Some lawmakers cried foul over the bills fast movement during the final week of the session.

It was kind of sheer muscle to really push it passed, said Soper, a prime sponsor of the bill. A lot of the objections were its too late in session. Then the other objection came from an amendment that we added in House Judiciary, which gave protection from AI companies and other technology providers that they would not be liable civilly for the users use of their software.

Supporters said Colorado needs to act on this now so the state isnt playing catch-up, with 37 other states already having a bill like this in effect. While this bill was able to pass, another bill looking to slow the implementation of the states landmark AI law from last year was not able to pass despite the governor, Denvers mayor and several congressional members calling for it to do so.

Trump rips radical left Colorado attorney general over Peters prosecution

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Representative Brianna Titone sponsored that bill and the deepfake measure. The AI bill would have delayed implementation of the original bill until 2027, but the original implementation date of February 2026 will remain intact after stakeholders, lawmakers and technological companies could not come to an agreement.

The tech industry was pushing for more watered-down regulations and more ways to get out of complying and the Senate sponsor could not find a resolution in the short amount of time that we are here and its disappointing because we all really wanted to find a path forward, Titone said.

The deepfake measure is heading to the governor after senators agreed with House amendments to the measure. Titone said lawmakers will explore solutions for the other AI measure over the summer. Congress just passed a bill on the matter, its awaiting the presidents signature. Soper said the federal measure does have a pathway to liability for the software companies in some cases, while the legislation at the state level targets the user of the technology.

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.
Getty Images/Luke Sharrett

Gun control advocates and faith leaders held a press conference at the state Legislative Building Wednesday urging lawmakers to oppose bills that would allow carrying concealed firearms without a permit.

Its one of the biggest issues this session. Legislators are considering bills that would allow constitutional carry, or the idea that individuals should be able to carry concealed weapons without restrictions based on the Second Amendment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Senate Bill 50, Freedom to Carry NC, allows North Carolinians who are U.S. citizens, at least 18 years of age, and not otherwise prohibited by law, to carry concealed weapons without applying for a permit.

Its backed by Republican leadership and would make North Carolina the 30th state to enshrine such a policy in state law. The bill has passed the Senate and is awaiting action in the House.

Its counterpart in the lower chamber, House Bill 5 or NC Constitutional Carry Act, has the same idea. This measure still needs approval from the House Rules Committee.

Rep. Phillip Rubin, a Democrat from Wake County, said the fact that either bill is even under consideration is a reflection of the troubled state of democracy in North Carolina.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

North Carolina is one of the most intensely gerrymandered states in the country, he said, with Republicans earning less than 48% of the vote statewide but holding 59% of the seats in the legislature. At the congressional level, the North Carolina delegation went from an even 7-7 split to a 10-4 Republican majority following GOP-crafted redistricting.

In a functioning democracy where elected representatives feel accountable to the people they represent, a bill this unpopular and this dangerous would never pass. It would never even come to a vote, he said. That is why Im so sad to see common sense gun regulation measures that cant get a vote, and dangerous measures like permitless concealed carry that repeatedly can.

Polls released recently by Everytown for Gun Safety and Elon University found the bulk of North Carolina voters against loosening gun regulations.

Rev. Jennifer Copeland is the executive director of the North Carolina Council of Churches, which represents 19 denominations. She said owning or carrying a gun doesnt make people safe.

All of us are less safe when everyone around us has a gun tucked into their waistband or carries it around in their purse, she said.
(NewsNation)  House Republicans are grilling three college presidents accused of tolerating antisemitism as pro-Palestinian protests took campuses by storm last year.

Weve held and will continue to hold these universities accountable as they choose to stand idly by rather than meaningfully address the harassment of and discrimination against Jewish students on their campuses, committee chair Rep. Tim Walberg, R-Mich., said in opening statements.

He added: What does antisemitism look like? It manifests in faculty who create a hostile environment on campus by expressing support for known terrorist groups, verbally harass Jewish students, and call for the destruction of Israel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The presidents of Haverford College, California Polytechnic State University and DePaul University appeared before the Committee of Education and Workforce on Wednesday.

Organizations like the Anti-Defamation League have reported incidents of antisemitism on these universities campuses. These incidents range from students being physically attacked to others chanting things perceived as antisemitic, sometimes even with faculty involvement.

During the congressional hearing, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, N.Y., grilled Haverford College President Wendy Raymond, saying: You were the one university president who failed to lay out if any disciplinary action has been taken, if any suspensions or expulsions. So I am asking you, was there any disciplinary action taken?

Raymond responded, I will not be discussing individual cases.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Stefanik pressed further: Were they taken in response to antisemitism? Were they taken by Haverford?

Yes, there have been some, Raymond finally confirmed.

Meanwhile, some Democrats on the committee echoed the concern over antisemitism on campuses but argued that Republicans and the Trump administration are, in their view, weaponizing the issue to pressure universities, particularly those in the Ivy League.

As a mother who raised her children in a Jewish home and as an active member of my synagogue for more than 25 years, I can no longer pretend that this is a good-faith effort to root out anti-Semitism. Especially when the Trump administration and the majority party are regularly undermining Jewish values, including Justice, loving kindness, free speech, freedom of religion, and the Jewish responsibility of tikkun olam to repair the world, said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici, D-Ore., who is Jewish.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Police clash with protesters at University of Washington

Ahead of Wednesdays hearing, lawmakers said their goal is not to get the presidents fired for their handling of protests  but to get them to do their jobs.

What were seeing on college campuses today isnt activism, its intimidation, its harassment  Let me be clear, theres no justification  none  for chanting in support of the evil terrorist group Hamas, said Rep. Burgess Owens, R-Utah.

Some universities, such as Harvard, have shared concerns that the administration is using the guise of combating antisemitism to overstep and control the nations schools.

Recent Gaza war protests on college campuses

Earlier this week, protesters at the University of Washington clashed with police, occupying a campus building and calling for the school to cut ties with Boeing over its role in supplying weapons to the war in Gaza.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The occupation lasted several hours with blockades and dumpster fires, and it ended with police storming the building and making 30 arrests.

The University will not be intimidated by this sort of offensive and destructive behavior and will continue to oppose antisemitism in all its forms, university spokesperson Victor Balta said in a statement.

Police clash with protesters at University of Washington

Hillel International, a Jewish student organization, said antisemetic incidents on college campuses increased 700% after the start of the Israel-Hamas war in 2023.

The president of DePaul University told NewsNation his campus has implemented systemic changes to eliminate antisemitism and that he looks forward to Wednesdays hearing.

Trump cuts federal funding for universities

The committees findings could influence President Donald Trumps decisions on federal funding cuts. He previously vowed to curtail aid for schools that allow pro-Palestinian demonstrations or refuse to follow his controversial list of demands for institutions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At Columbia University, the loss of federal funding has resulted in the termination of nearly 180 employees after Trump canceled $400 million in federal grants and contracts to the school.

Texas lawmakers want to defund cities over left-leaning laws

Meanwhile, the Education Department said this week that Harvard will not receive any new federal grants until the school meets the administrations demands.

Trump already froze more than $2 billion in federal grants to Harvard and wants to strip the school of its tax-exempt status.

Harvard has continued to call those actions government overreach.

NewsNations Nancy Loo and Anna Kutz contributed to this report.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Citizen activists supporting a public vote on important issues could have to brush up on their reading, writing and arithmetic if they want to get their initiatives on next year's ballot in some states.

A new Arkansas law will bar initiative ballot titles written above an eighth-grade reading level. And canvassers will have to verify that petition signers have either read the ballot title or had it read aloud to them.

In South Dakota, sponsors will need to make sure their petition titles appears in 14-point type on the front page and 16-point font on the back, where people typically sign.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And in Florida, volunteers will have to register with the state if they gather more than 25 petition signatures from outside their family or risk facing felony charges punishable by up to five years in prison.

Across about dozen states, roughly 40 bills restricting or revamping the citizen initiative process have passed at least one legislative chamber this year, according to a review by The Associated Press. Many already have been signed into law.

Some advocates for the initiative process are alarmed by the trend.

Globally, as theres movements to expand direct democracy, in the United States its contracting, said Dane Waters, chair of the Initiative and Referendum Institute at the University of Southern California, who has advised ballot campaigns in over 20 nations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Most of the new restrictions come from Republican lawmakers in states where petitions have been used to place abortion rights, marijuana legalization and other progressive initiatives on the ballot. GOP lawmakers contend their measures are shielding state constitutions from outside interests.

This is not a bill to restrict. It is a bill to protect  to make sure that our constitutional system is one of integrity, and that its free of fraud, said state Sen. Jennifer Bradley of Florida, where the new initiative requirements already have been challenged in court.

A right in some states, but not others

About half the U.S. states allow people to bypass their legislatures by gathering signatures to place proposed laws or constitutional amendments on the ballot.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Since Oregon voters first used the process in 1904, a total of 2,744 citizen initiatives have appeared on statewide ballots, with 42% winning approval, according to the Initiative and Referendum Institute.

But the process has long caused tension between voters and their elected representatives.

Lawmakers often perceive the initiative process as an assault on their power and authority, and they want to limit it, Waters said. They view it, in my opinion, as a nuisance  a gnat that keeps bothering them.

Restrictions on petition canvassers

Because initiative petitions require thousands of signatures to qualify for the ballot, groups sponsoring them often pay people to solicit signatures outside shopping centers and public places. Some states now prohibit payments based on the number of signatures gathered.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

States also are trying to restrict who can circulate petitions. A new Arkansas law requires paid petition canvassers to live in the state. And a new Montana law will make petition circulators wear badges displaying their name and home state.

The new Florida law expanding registration requirements for petition circulators also requires them to undergo state training and bars canvassers who are noncitizens, nonresidents or have been convicted of felony offenses without their voting rights restored.

More requirements for petition signers

In addition to providing their name, address and birth date, people signing initiative petitions in Florida also will have to provide either their Florida driver's license, state identification card or the last four digits of their Social Security number.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That information is not required in other states, said Kelly Hall, executive director of the Fairness Project, a progressive group that has backed dozens of ballot initiatives in states. Hall said people concerned about privacy might hesitate to sign petitions.

I work in ballot measures, and I deeply support many of the things that folks have tried to put on the ballot in Florida, Hall said, and I dont know if I could bring myself to do that  thats a very prohibitive requirement.

Making the fine print larger

Many states already prescribe a particular format for initiative petitions. South Dakota's new mandate for specific font sizes was prompted by allegations that some people got duped into signing a petition for abortion rights last year, said sponsoring state Sen. Amber Hulse, a Republican.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Printing the ballot title in large type might make it harder for some issues to get on the ballot if people know what theyre signing. But thats actually a good thing," Hulse said.

More power for elected officials

Before they can collect signatures, petition sponsors must get approval from state officials. New measures in several states give those officials greater authority.

New Arkansas laws allow the attorney general to reject initiatives written above an eighth-grade reading level or which conflict with the U.S. Constitution or federal law. Utah's lieutenant governor, who already can reject unconstitutional petitions, now also will be able to turn away petitions that are unlikely to provide adequate funding for their proposed laws.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A new Missouri law gives greater power to the secretary of state, instead of judges, to rewrite ballot summaries struck down as being insufficient or unfair.

A higher threshold for voter approval

Most states require only a majority vote to amend their constitutions, though Colorado requires 55% approval and Florida 60%.

Republican-led legislatures in North Dakota and South Dakota approved measures this year proposing a 60% public vote to approve future constitutional amendments, and Utah lawmakers backed a 60% threshold for tax measures. All three propositions still must go before voters, where they will need only a majority to pass.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Voters rejected similar proposals in Ohio, Arkansas and South Dakota in recent years, but they approved a 60% threshold for tax measures in Arizona.

Lawmakers contend the move has merit.

Raising the threshold can help protect the constitution from being manipulated by special interest groups or out-of-state activists," North Dakota House Majority Leader Mike Lefor said earlier this year.

___

Associated Press writers Jack Dura and Kate Payne contributed to this report.

___ Payne is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
MSNBCs Lawrence ODonnell said President Donald Trump is clearly off his game after watching footage of his Oval Office meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Tuesday.

The Canadian prime minister both humbled and humiliated Donald Trump at the same time without Donald Trump having the slightest idea it was happening, he said on Tuesday night.

ODonnell said theres been a steady stream of that sort of humiliation, starting with French President Emmanuel Macrons visit in February and when British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stopped by days later.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Later in the segment, ODonnell slammed Trumps utterly demented attempt to turn Canada into a state. Carney, he noted, responded by saying absolutely no to Donald Trump to his face.

But Trump, he said, barely noticed.

Donald Trump had no fight in him today when the very polite Canadian beside him talked rings around Donald Trump like a ring master in a circus with a trained animal, threw in some magic words that sounded flattering enough to Donald Trump so that Donald Trump actually  and youll see this  ends up nodding and agreeing with the man who is humiliating him and defeating him right there in the room on TV, ODonnell said. No president has ever lost more in one conversation in the Oval Office than Donald Trump lost in these 90 seconds.

ODonnell rolled the footage of the meeting, where Carney told him Canada would never be for sale and would not be a U.S. state.

See more from ODonnells Tuesday night monologue:
FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56)  A Lawrenceburg man learned his fate in court after pleading guilty to receiving child pornography.

The Department of Justice announced on Monday, May 5, that Zachary King, 24, was sentenced to 151 months in prison after using the internet to receive and distribute child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to his plea agreement, King admitted to authorities that he received CSAM as early as the day before his home was searched. During the search, investigators found more than 7,400 images and videos of minors engaging in sexually explicit activity.

Per federal law, the DOJ announced that King must serve at least 85% of his sentence before being eligible for release. After his release, he will be placed under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 40 years.

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.
Department of Corrections | Susan J. Demas

Body camera recordings by guards during strip searches at Michigans only womens prison, Womens Huron Valley Correctional Facility, has prompted a $500 million lawsuit against the Michigan Department of Corrections, MDOC Director Heidi Washington, Deputy Director Jeremy Bush, Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and numerous other officials and correction officers.

The lawsuit was filed by attorney Todd Flood in Washtenaw County Circuit Court on behalf of 20 women, identified only as Jane Does, and accuses the defendants of invasion of privacy, intentional abuse, and violation of rights.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The suit further contends the defendants were informed of the alleged abuses committed against the female prisoners and the psychological consequences.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

Defendants were aware of these chronic staffing shortages yet implemented a policy of recording strip searches that they knew or should have known would trigger trauma responses in a population with high rates of sexual abuse history, the filing stated.

According to the lawsuit, the 20 women were victims of exposure and violation of their privacy, as their intimate areas were recorded while using the toilet and as they showered between January and March 2025.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Women were forced to bend at the waist, spread their buttocks, and expose their vaginal and anal cavities to live cameras worn by corrections officers, inflicting severe psychological damage and deliberately retraumatizing women with known histories of sexual trauma, the suit stated, further contending the plaintiffs suffered profound trauma and harm as a result. First Amended Complaint Circuit Court (1)

Many have experienced severe physical manifestations of psychological distress, including debilitating panic attacks, insomnia, gastrointestinal distress, and exacerbation of pre-existing conditions. Several have withdrawn from visitation with family members, resigned from prison jobs, and abandoned educational programs, the lawsuit stated.

Additionally, the complaint highlighted what it said was a disparity in the behavior of officers toward male and female inmates. Although the policy was implemented across all MDOC facilities, it said some officers turned off their cameras during searches of male inmates and did not conduct thorough inspections as they did with female inmates, pointing out a clear difference in attitude based on the sex of the inmates.

Although the implementation of body cameras in the Huron Valley facility began earlier this year, and was partially limited two months later, the lawsuit contends the prison and its officials are not exempt from a history of abuse against female inmates.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This history of problematic strip search practices at WHV demonstrates a recurring pattern: MDOC implements invasive search procedures that cause significant psychological harm.

This lawsuit is not the first involving the prison, and accusations of abuse, as well as against the MDOC, including a recent allegation of sexual harassment against the departments former spokesperson.

The plaintiffs, beyond seeking financial compensation and the destruction of the recordings, also demand the cessation of practices that violate civil rights and for the proper training of MDOC guards.

What these women continue to endure is nothing short of horrific. This case exposes a grotesque abuse of power that directly retraumatizes survivors of sexual assault. Despite multiple warnings about the policys illegality from advocacy organizations and state legislators, MDOC officials have failed to fully halt these privacy violations, said Flood in a press release.
PHNOM PENH, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia has imposed a temporary ban on the import of livestock and related animal products from neighboring Thailand to prevent the outbreak of anthrax, said a statement released on Wednesday.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries said in the statement that the ministry was closely monitoring the anthrax outbreak in some parts of Thailand.

"Currently, there are no cases of the disease reported in Cambodia, but as a precautionary measure, the ministry has imposed a temporary ban on the import of livestock and related animal products from all Thai border crossings," the statement said.

It added that authorities have worked closely with relevant institutions at those border crossings to enforce the ban.

The statement said the General Department of Animal Health and Production has also set up a quick reaction network in all 25 cities and provinces with the aim of monitoring animal health and intervening in case of suspicion.

The Ministry of Health also issued a statement late on Tuesday, calling on people to be vigilant and authorities to step up health measures at border crossings to prevent the import of the disease into the kingdom.

"To date, the disease has not been detected in Cambodia," the statement said.

Anthrax is a rare but serious illness caused by a spore-forming bacterium, Bacillus anthracis, the statement said, adding that the disease mainly affects livestock and wild animals.

Humans can become infected through contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products, it said, adding that anthrax is not transmitted from person to person, but anthrax skin lesions may be contagious. 
BLOUNT COUNTY, Tenn. (WATE)  Parents and leaders have expressed frustration and anger after a former Blount County Schools teacher was given probation after pleading guilty to offensively touching students. In this weeks Ask Isaacs, 6 News Lori Tucker, Attorney Greg Isaacs and Tennessee State Representative Sam McKenzie discuss the Joseph Dalton case.

On April 30, Dalton was sentenced to 6 months of supervised probation with judicial diversion after he pleaded guilty to five counts of misdemeanor assault by physical contact in September 2024. Under the judicial diversion, if Dalton completes the requirements of his probation, which includes undergoing psychosexual evaluation and complying with any resulting recommendations, the case could be expunged from public records.

Fifth Judicial District Attorney General Ryan Desmonds office shared when the sentence was announced that the judge granted Daltons request for a judicial diversion despite the states argument against it. Desmond later released a statement going into more detail about the case, including how his office was faced with questions of if they should pursue charges if the evidence did not support a sexual battery charge and knowing how minimal the sentence would be.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Desmond, Blount County Mayor Ed Mitchell and other leaders have called for state laws to change, and some residents and parents protested the sentence outside the Blount County Courthouse. A mother of one of the children victimized by Dalton spoke with 6 News, saying that she felt it was important to attend the rally.

The children have to come first: Parents angered by sentencing of ex-Blount County PE teacher

The charges against Dalton stemmed from incidents at two Blount County schools. Some of the allegations against Dalton accused him of touching students in a tickling manner, hugging students or wrapping his body around them, and in one case, putting a student on the ground and standing above them for an extended amount of time. In Desmonds May 3 statement, he explained that Tennessee laws on sexual battery require contact with the intimate parts of a victim. Desmond wrote that while no videos or evidence showed Dalton having that type of contact with students, his behavior was concerning and fit the criminal offense of assault through the offensive touching of another.

Another interesting aspect of this case involves records 6 News obtained that detail earlier incidents involving Dalton. A report from the Blount County Sheriffs Office explains that the district attorneys office declined to prosecute Dalton in connection to an October 2019 incident citing being able to prove sexual gratification and this being a he said she said type of case. At the time, Mike Flynn was serving as the Fifth Judicial District Attorney General, according to the Blount County Governments website. The records also two other incidents investigated by the sheriffs office that involved allegations against Dalton, with one dating back to August 2005.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On May 2, a spokesperson for the Tennessee Board of Education told 6 News that Daltons teaching license is still active, and that each case has to be presented in a review committee meeting for a recommendation on a potential license action. The spokesperson also shared that the board will gather all information from the court and conduct any necessary follow-ups before doing so.

If you have a legal question, send it to AskIsaacs@wate.com. To watch full episodes of Ask Isaacs, click here.

WATEs Lori Tucker and Attorney Greg Isaacs answer your legal questions from the WATE Alert Desk on Wednesdays at 2:30 p.m. and on WATE Channel 6 at 5:30 p.m. Ask Isaacs is also streamed live on WATE6+.

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.
The glamorous leaders of an embattled wellness company that promoted orgasmic meditation offered members yoga with a twist in a consensual setting  and the alleged victims are now ashamed of their sexual experiences, their lawyers insisted as the scorching federal trial kicked off in New York.

Now theyre married and have kids and dont want their neighbors to know what they were doing in their 20s, Jennifer Bonjean, who represents orgasm cult OneTaste founder Nicole Daedone, told the 12-person jury during opening statements in US District Court in Brooklyn Tuesday afternoon.

At the time, they were having a blast. Grown people made grown decisions they dont want to stand by.

OneTaste founder Nicole Daedone and Rachel Cherwitz are on trial in US District Court in Brooklyn. Gregory P. Mango

The trial comes nearly two years after Daedone and the controversial companys former head of sales, Rachel Cherwitz, were accused of grooming members into having sex with investors and clients in a flagrant scheme that ran for 14 years until it ended in 2018.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They were each charged with conspiracy to commit forced labor after prosecutors alleged the duo ran the business like a cult by recruiting those who endured prior trauma with claims they could fix their sexual suffering and dysfunction.

Daedone and Cherwitz were charged with conspiracy to commit forced labor for allegedly grooming members into having sex with investors. Gregory P. Mango

Prosecutors alleged the duo then forced members and employees into debt and subjected them to economic, sexual, emotional and psychological abuse as well as surveillance, indoctrination and intimidation to get them to work for free.

They worked because they were taught the way to enlightenment was to obey the defendants demands, Assistant US Attorney Sean Fern told the court, noting many worked seven days a week.

They worked because they were told doing things they found sexually disgusting was the path to freedom. They coerced their victims to provide sexual services to OneTaste clients. They grew OneTaste on the backs of unpaid or underpaid labor, much of that labor included serving OneTastes investors.

The defense attorneys claimed the alleged victims are now ashamed of their sexual experiences. AP

But the defense painted their alleged victims as disgruntled former employees and members who relished the sex they were having  but have since become embarrassed by their past.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They insisted that the sexually explicit meditation  described as a mindfulness practice  had no bearing on whether staffers at the contentious startup were forced to work there.

Daedone and Cherwitz face 20 years in prison if convicted by the 12-person jury. Gabriella Bass

No one put a gun against anyones head to make them work; they stayed because they believed in the company, Cherwitzs attorney Mike Robotti said, claiming members were seeking a spiritual awakening through orgasmic meditation.

They were having fun, and they were having sex. The exit door was always open.

OneTaste was the subject of a 2022 Netflix documentary that detailed some of the allegations that are part of the criminal case now on trial. Netflix

The company has had a fall from grace since 2018, when more than 35,000 people attended its in-person events, they were endorsed by Gwyneth Paltrows Goop website and Daedone delivered a viral TED Talk encouraging skeptical attendees to try out orgasmic meditation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

OneTaste was also the subject of a 2022 Netflix documentary called Orgasm Inc, which detailed some of the allegations that are part of the criminal case.

If convicted, both Daedone and Cherwitz face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

The trial is expected to last as long as six weeks.
The Trump administrations reported plan to hurriedly deport immigrants to war-torn Libya would clearly violate an earlier court order barring such summary deportations, a federal judge warned Wednesday.

U.S. District Judge Brian Murphys assessment followed an emergency motion filed by lawyers for a group of Asian immigrants seeking to block a military flight that appeared to be on the verge of taking off from Texas  even as the two competing governments that control portions of Libya reportedly indicated they would reject deportation flights from the United States.

Citing alarming reports in the media and accounts from some of their clients  nationals of Laos, Vietnam and the Philippines  the lawyers said the immigrants are at risk of being sent to Libya in defiance of an earlier injunction, issued by Murphy, prohibiting deportations to so-called third-party countries without notice and a chance to make a legal challenge. They asked Murphy to quickly prevent any deportation flights to Libya and to ensure the Trump administration is complying with his earlier order. They also asked Murphy to block flights to potential stopover nations like Saudi Arabia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Less than two hours after the emergency motion, Murphy issued a brief clarification stating that, if the reports of the imminent deportations are accurate, they would clearly violate his April 18 injunction.

In that injunction, Murphy ruled that any immigrant expelled to a country not explicitly provided for on the aliens order of removal be given written notice and a meaningful chance to contest their deportation to that country if they fear they may face torture or persecution there.

This motion should not even be required as it blatantly defies this Courts preliminary injunctions, the lawyers told Murphy on Wednesday. Murphy said he agreed with their assessment, adding that he sees no room for doubt about the matter.

Shortly after Murphy issued his injunction, the Trump administration sent two groups of migrants to overseas detention in El Salvador, raising questions about whether it had violated his directives. The administration argued that those deportations were legal because they were not carried out by Immigration and Customs Enforcement but solely by the Pentagon, which was not explicitly covered by his initial injunction. As a result, Murphy  a Biden appointee  expanded the injunction last week to forbid ICE from handing off immigrants to other agencies in any manner that prevents an alien from receiving  due-process guarantees.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Reuters and The New York Times first reported Tuesday that the Trump administration was preparing to deport people to Libya.

But details of the plans  and their feasibility  remained shrouded in uncertainty. Different regions of Libya are governed by two rival governments, and both governments released statements Wednesday saying they would reject deportation flights from the U.S., The Washington Post reported.

Its also unclear which arm of the U.S. government is orchestrating the deportations, but some reports have said the U.S. military was expected to provide the aircraft.

And its not clear how many people were being targeted for the deportations and how much formal notice, if any, they have received of their destination. In the emergency motion Wednesday, the immigrants lawyers said one of their clients, a Filipino man, was told that he would be sent to Libya, but neither he nor his lawyer was given written notice. Another detainee, a man from Laos, said he was told he would be sent to Saudi Arabia on a military flight.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

President Donald Trump, when asked if his administration was sending immigrants to Libya on Wednesday, said I dont know, and referred reporters to the Department of Homeland Security. A DHS spokesperson declined to comment on any planned deportation flights to Libya.

The Trump administration has been discussing so-called safe third country agreements with a number of nations. Theyve also worked to reach potential agreements with countries to detain people deported from the United States, similar to the agreement they reached with El Salvador.

Theres talks underway with countries, border czar Tom Homan said at the White House on Monday, though he declined to say how many countries were involved in the discussions.

Its part of the Trump administrations effort to shift some of the burden on the U.S. asylum system and to deter migration to the United States. But the latest move, if the administration follows through, would mark a dramatic escalation because anyone sent there may face brutal conditions and human rights violations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has also said the administration is proposing sending some of the most despicable human beings to other countries, adding, the further away from America, the better.

Libya, which remains divided after years of civil war, is controlled by a United Nations-recognized government in the west and military strongman Khalifa Haftar in the east. Haftars son, Saddam, was in Washington last week, meeting with Trump administration officials.

Libya has a number of detention facilities for refugees and migrants, which human rights groups have described as deplorable and have warned are rampant with mistreatment, torture and forced labor and slavery.
When the conclave begins in the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday, everything will revolve around the successor to pope Francis.

The focus will be on the cardinals, including some who are not considered candidates and are less well-known. However, one woman also plays an important role.

GIOVANNI BATTISTA RE, 91:

The Italian has been one of the most important figures in the Vatican since the death of Francis. As dean of the College of Cardinals, he celebrated the grand Requiem Mass with state guests from around the world. In recent days, he also led the meetings of the cardinals, the so-called General Congregation. However, he is already 11 years too old to vote in the conclave.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

PIETRO PAROLIN, 70:

Since Re's deputy, Vice Dean Leonardo Sandri, 81, has also exceeded the age limit, the conclave will be led by the highest-ranking cardinal bishop eligible to vote: Parolin. The Italian, previously the Vatican's secretary of state, the second highest rank in the political and diplomatic functions of the Vatican, is also considered one of the favourites.

DOMINIQUE MAMBERTI, 73:

Almost the whole world will be watching the French cleric once a new pope has been chosen. As cardinal protodeacon, he has the job of stepping onto the balcony of St Peter's Basilica and announcing: "Habemus papam" (We have a pope) - unless he is elected himself, but that does not seem likely.

RAFFAELLA PETRINI, 56:

The Italian Franciscan is one of the women recently appointed by Francis to leadership positions in the Vatican. As president of the governorate of Vatican City State, she is the administrative head of the Vatican. Her tasks include ensuring the smooth running of the conclave. This means she is also responsible for ensuring that everything remains truly secret. However, she will not be present in the Sistine Chapel.

MYKOLA BYCHOK, 45:

The Ukrainian cleric is the youngest among the 133 cardinals eligible to vote. Previously, he served as a cleric in his home country Ukraine and in the United States. Today, he is a bishop in the Australian city of Melbourne. He also holds Australian citizenship.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

CARLOS OSORO SIERRA, 79:

The Spaniard - formerly archbishop of Madrid - is the oldest cardinal allowed to participate in the decision. He was born on May 16, 1945. This means that if Francis had lived one month longer, he would no longer be involved.

PHILIPPE OUEDRAOGO, 79/80:

The cardinal from Burkina Faso, formerly archbishop of Ouagadougou, is listed in the papal yearbook for 2025 with the birth date of December 31, 1945. Strangely, the year before, he was still listed with January 25, 1945, as in his identity card. Now he can vote.

GIOVANNI ANGELO BECCIU, 76:

The Italian made headlines again shortly before the conclave. He was sentenced to five and a half years in prison for embezzlement and fraud in a Vatican real-estate deal. The appeal is still ongoing. However, Francis had already excluded him from the conclave. Initially, Becciu still wanted to participate. Eventually, he decided not to.
I often think about how my students would learn from President Trump if I still taught middle school. How would I teach American government when every move felt so fraught with danger? What would I do?

Id teach civics. Id take the firehose of news, spray it around the room, and wed all soak ourselves in civics. President Trump would criticize a judge, and wed talk about the federal court system - what an appeal is, and what judicial review is, and what the Supreme Court does. This would lead us to a discussion of checks and balances. My students would pepper me with questions, some of which I could answer directly ("Wait, so could Trump fire the judge?") and some of which I could not; those would be the best ones. "Is the president more powerful than the other branches? What would happen if the president decided not to do what a judge told him? Why is lunch so short?"

Mr. Trump would hint at a third term, and a student would say he cant do that. "How do you know?" I would ask, and wed all dig into our little pocket constitutions. The nature of executive orders would puzzle kids, but those orders would help us see that the president runs the executive branch of government and can dictate the direction of its work. And because everyone would then get confused about what a law is, as opposed to an executive order, wed be all set up to learn what Congress does.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I would use President Trump to teach media literacy. Students would bring in news headlines, and week by week, wed paper over a bulletin board, analyzing the headlines language and inferring the point of view of the editor or author. "This one loves Trump!" a student would say. And that would make us check the text of the article to see whether a close reading supported that claim. This focus on news would drive us back to the First Amendment. Id shout, "You cant HANDLE the press!" and not a single kid would know I was misquoting an old movie. Theyd roll their eyes at me.

Id also use President Trump to teach habits. Before we puzzled over executive orders or freedom of the press, we would make rules for ourselves: that throughout the year, we would strive to ask questions rather than refute what others said, that when possible we would turn our bodies toward speakers and reflect back what we had heard in order to validate and clarify. Wed learn to identify and regulate emotions when classmates said things that set us off. We would return to these - and other - expectations throughout our discussions, collaboratively nurturing a culture of curiosity, even about those with whom we disagree. If elected officials - including President Trump - publicly disregarded the norms we had agreed to follow in our learning community, the contrast would sharpen our focus.

I would be questioned along the way. A parent would email, saying that the widespread condemnation of President Trump among my students was marginalizing her conservative son. On the very same day, another parent would ask how a class devoted to civic education could platform an authoritarian figure like Mr. Trump. If I were feeling overwhelmed and cornered, I would reply hastily and defensively; I would not hear from either parent again. If I took a deep breath, I might invite each parent to join me for a more thorough discussion. I would either end the conversation before it began, or I would practice the very behaviors I was hoping to teach my students.

At the end of the year, another parent would thank me and say, "I wish I had learned all this when I was in seventh grade!" And I would think: Its not too late! Its not too late for you to get curious about the freedom of the press, the function of executive orders, the balance of powers, and the biases of media sources. Its never too late to dig deeply, to learn joyfully, and to be curious about those with whom you disagree. A seventh grader can do it. So can you.

Kent Lenci is a member of the board of advisers for the Prohuman Foundation. He taught middle school social studies for 20 years. He is the founder of Middle Ground School Solutions, which helps todays students ease tomorrows political polarization, and he is the author of Learning to Depolarize: Helping Students and Teachers Reach Across Lines of Disagreement.
At least 31 people were killed and dozens more were injured overnight in Pakistan by Indian aerial attacks, Pakistani officials said.

The Pakistani military said the airstrike amounted to a "blatant act of aggression," a characterization disputed by an Indian official, who said it was "measured, non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible."

The strike, which followed Tuesday's missile assault, came amid rising tensions as India continued to blame Pakistan for a deadly attack in April in the disputed Kashmir region, a claim that Pakistan denies. That militant attack, known as the Pahalgam incident, left 26 people dead in Indian-held Kashmir.

PHOTO: Soldiers and onlookers inspect the debris of a mosque after Indian strikes in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, on May 7, 2025. (Sajjad Qayyum/AFP via Getty Images)

Pakistani military officials on Tuesday had vowed to respond from the "air and ground." Officials repeated that warning Wednesday morning, saying Pakistan "reserves the right to respond, in self-defense, at a time, place, and manner of its choosing." The Pakistan National Security Committee said in a statement following a meeting of the committee that "the Armed Forces of Pakistan have duly been authorized to undertake corresponding actions in this regard."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistan's prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif, said India "will pay the price" for the overnight attack on Pakistan in an address to the nation on Wednesday.

"Innocent children and women are among those martyred in India's cowardly attacks," Sharif said. "We pledge that every drop of the blood of these martyrs will be accounted for."

While addressing Pakistan's parliament on Wednesday, Sharif said the Pakistani army taught the Indian army a lesson in "conventional war" during the overnight fighting.

"This was a conventional war, not a nuclear war, and we taught them a lesson in conventional war," Sharif said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sharif said Pakistani fighters did not cross into Indian territory during the fighting. Sharif also claimed India did not accept Pakistan's offer to conduct an independent inquiry into last month's Pahalgam attack.

PHOTO: People look at a part of an aircraft in Wuyan near Indian-administered Kashmir's main city of Srinagar on May 7, 2025. (Tauseef Mustafa/AFP via Getty Images)

The Indian army confirmed New Delhi's latest strikes on Wednesday, saying in a statement that its forces were "responding appropriately in a calibrated manner."

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said India's strikes overnight amounted to a preemptive action, saying Pakistan did not take sufficient steps against "terrorist infrastructure on its territory or on territory under its control."

Two military officials also described the attack, which they said involved nine locations and lasted about 25 minutes. The officials claim the targets were destroyed and that the Indian military is prepared to respond to what she characterizes as "Pakistani misadventures" that would "escalate the situation."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistan said the airstrikes hit numerous locations in Pakistan, not just in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Pakistan also claimed India hit a hydroelectric dam in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

At least 46 people were injured in Pakistan, military spokesperson Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said in a press conference earlier Wednesday. The country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it had summoned India's top diplomat in Pakistan.

The attack "constitutes a clear violation of Pakistan's sovereignty," the Foreign Ministry said in a statement, adding, "The Indian side was warned that such reckless behavior poses a serious threat to regional peace and stability."

MORE: Pakistan says it is responding to 'act of war' after India missile strikes

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

President Donald Trump said he wants to see the fighting between the two countries stop in remarks from the Oval Office on Wednesday.

"I get along with both. I know both very well. And I want to see them work it out. I want to see them stop," he told reporters. "They've got a tit for tat, so hopefully they can stop now."

"If I can do anything to help, I will," he added.

The U.S. Mission to Pakistan issued an alert on Wednesday, saying officials were "aware of reports of military strikes by India into Pakistan."

"This remains an evolving situation, and we are closely monitoring developments," the alert said, adding a reminder that there is a "Do Not Travel" advisory in place for areas along the India-Pakistan border "due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We advise U.S. citizens to depart areas of active conflict if they can safely do so, or to shelter in place," embassy staff said.

At least 31 dead in Pakistan in overnight India attacks, military says originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
LEBANON, Mo.  Lebanon has announced a new event happening once a month in the citys downtown.

Downtown Lebanon Missouri says in Facebook post that they are starting a new event called Ozark Empire Realty Cars & Coffee Cruise-In.

Good Dads and Flintrock collaborate for charity golf tournament

The city has announced the cancellation of their annual Cruise-In event for 2025 that is traditionally held on Fathers Day weekend. This event is planned as a replacement for the year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This event will offer citizens a place to cruise-in with their vehicles to enjoy time with food trucks available.

The event will be every third Thursday of the month starting May 15, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Farmers Market Pavilion in Lebanon.

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.
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  Walmart is welcoming the community to its newest remodeled store in Lebanon.

Around 9 a.m. on May 9, community leaders will be at 1530 Walmart Drive for the locations reopening celebration.

A ribbon cutting ceremony, free samples and giveaways from various vendors and a cook-out are expected to occur at the store.

The company previously announced in April the store was one of three in the region that would receive a makeover.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL)  The Lee County Sheriffs Office is seeking the publics help to identify a suspect wanted for theft.

On May 5, the Lee County Sheriffs Office received a report of theft of property that happened at 171 Lee Road 728, Smiths Station, Alabama. From surveillance video, the police determined that the theft happened on May 3 at 8:30 p.m.

Police say multiple items were stolen including a utility trailer, Grasshopper zero-turn lawn mower, push mower, and bolt cutters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The vehicle that appears in surveillance video appears to be an older model Mazda truck with a noticeable dent on the back passenger fender.

If you have any information about the identity of this suspect, please call the Lee County Sheriffs Office at 334-749-5651 or Central Alabama Crime Stoppers at 334-215-STOP(7867).

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.
(Photo: Alejandra Rubio/Nevada Current)

State lawmakers are considering legislation that sets out a five-year plan to give pay raises to elected county officials, who havent had a raise since 2018.

On Tuesday, Sen. Skip Daly (D-Sparks), who sponsored Senate Bill 116, told members of the Assembly Committee on Government Affairs that pay for county elected officers is set by statute. The bill, Daly said, would set a chain of events in place so they wont have to come back to the Legislature, by establishing automatic annual raises that would end in 2030.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The raises, which would take effect in July, would allow officials to use one of two formulas to elevate the pay for the elected district attorney, sheriff, county clerk, county assessor, county recorder, county treasurer and public administrator of each county. County commission salaries would be set by a schedule based on each countys size and population.

For all but county commissioners, the base rate would be established at 3% more than the salary of the highest paid-employee under the elected officials supervision, or by a formula that compounds the annual percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index from fiscal year 2019 through fiscal year 2024, and adds it to the officials 2018 salary.

The increase would adjust base rates to more closely reflect the market, Daly said.

It will make it easier to attract more qualified people to run for these positions, and it will make it easier to attract qualified subordinate support staff, he added, noting that some deputy assessors and others required to possess a high degree of specialized knowledge, earn more than their elected counterparts and would currently have to take pay cuts if elected to replace them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If any of you know anything about property taxes, its not easy, Daly said. Theres a lot of calculations, and you have to have qualified people that can do that work.

Employee raises, Daly noted, are subject to a pay range that would offer protections against an elected official handing out excessive raises in order to boost their own salary.

The legislation also allows county commissioners, at any time, to provide a 2% cost of living increase to all elected officials in the jurisdiction.

We believe that there are additional guardrails in here for counties to not only bring equity of pay to county elected offices, but to allow for the Board of County Commissioners to adjust and respond to fiscal emergencies, testified Vinson Guthreau, executive director of the Nevada Association of Counties (NACO).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gov. Joe Lombardo, in 2022, his last year as sheriff of Clark County, earned total pay and benefits of $210,965.37, according to Transparent Nevada, which tracks government salaries.

Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson earned just over $322,000 in 2022, the last year for which records are available.

The legislation also sets salaries for county commissioners throughout the state.

Clark County commissioners currently earn an average of $93,938. The average Washoe County commissioner earns just over $91,000.

Pay for elected county commissioners, beginning July 1, would be set at:

$121,000 for Clark County;

$116,000 for Washoe County;

$39,000 for Lyon County, Carson City, Elko County, Nye County, Douglas County, and Storey County;

$36,000 for Churchill County and Humboldt County;

$33,000 for White Pine County and Pershing County; and

$30,000 for Lander County, Mineral County, Lincoln County, Eureka County, and Esmeralda County.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Each county commissioner would be entitled to a 3% increase for the next five years, beginning July 2026. Salaries would thereafter be frozen at the 2030 fiscal year level until additional legislative action.

Annual raises must not be paid if the county commission determines that sufficient financial resources are not available to pay for the increases. Elected county officers, including commissioners, would not be entitled to retroactive pay for annual increases that were not granted.

Commissioners would also be allowed to pay themselves and county elected officials a reduced salary, as long as its across the board and equally proportional.

Assemblyman Max Carter, a Democrat from Clark County, said lawmakers are getting flooded with messages citing some concern about fiscal responsibility in these crunching times.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These people havent had a raise in seven years, Daly responded. Tell me the good time? There is no good time. So I think it needs to be done.

The bill passed the Senate last month by a vote of 19-2, with two Republicans, Sen. Carrie Buck of Henderson and Sen. Robin Titus, who represents Churchill, Douglas, Esmeralda, Lyon, Mineral, and parts of Nye County, opposed.

Guthreau of NACO characterized just two no votes in the Senate as a win.

Nevada Republican Party Legislative Affairs Director Joshua Skaggs testified in opposition to the measure.

We support lower taxes and fees and a reduction in the scope of government at all levels, he said. No private business would ever consider paying employees based on what another employee in the organization earns.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bill, he said, is an unfunded mandate that would further widen the gap between private and public employees, and requires ever-increasing pay that increases, based not on merit or the value of the job, but rather based only on what other employees earn and the passage of time.

The Economic Forum made it very clear that Nevada has economic problems, Janine Hansen, president of Nevada Families for Freedom, testified in opposition, referring to the forum reducing projected state tax revenue to reflect anticipated impacts of President Donald Trumps tariff policies. Noting the median salary for a full-time worker in Nevada is only $53,000, Hansen said it doesnt look good when we are raising salaries for government employees when the people are struggling to put food on the table

The committee took no action on the bill.
ISLAMABAD, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Pakistan on Wednesday restored flight operations in major cities after India attacked civilian settlements in the country.

Earlier, the CAA issued a notification, restricting airspace access for 48 hours, considering the security situation in the country.

The CAA advised travelers to remain vigilant and follow official airline communications to avoid inconvenience, saying the final decision regarding flight schedules and routing remains with individual airlines.

"In view of the evolving regional situation, passengers are advised to stay in contact with their respective airlines for updated information regarding their flights," the CAA said.

Officials from Pakistan Airports Authority told Xinhua that flight operations at major airports returned to normal with both domestic and international flights being operated at all major airports, including Allama Iqbal International Airport Lahore, Jinnah International Airport Karachi and Islamabad International Airport.

At least 26 people have been killed and 46 others injured after India carried out strikes on six civilian settlements in Pakistan, Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations, the media wing of the Pakistani army, confirmed during a press briefing on Wednesday. 
ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo.  County Executive Sam Page vetoed a bill intended to fund a small farm, citing legal restrictions on direct funding.

Instead of the direct funding proposed in the bill, Page suggested a $4.5 million public bidding plan to address the issue.

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Daily News

Councilwoman Shalonda Webb, who sponsored the bill, criticized the veto as a failure in leadership.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dail Chambers is the founder of Coahoma Orchards and pleaded with the council to treat each other with human respect.

She dropped out of the project less than a week after it passed.

She spoke at the meeting stating,

Its unfortunate that there was no protection for me, as it is that Ive been dragged into a situation that I stepped away from. For just $35,000 to create a raspberry field, the farmer continued, Its silly; I had the smallest part of the budget, but I care more about being on the right side of history.

Webb has been vocal in her support for the farmers involved, including the owner of Rustic Roots, who is a personal acquaintance of her former assistant.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some speakers are even challenging if the grant should go toward food insecurity at all due to the councils lack of research on this bill.

Tom Sullivan claimed, One of the most critical things to know in the matter was the number of grocery stores in the Spanish Lake areathere are several and they almost all carry fresh produce all year round. I could identify 7 but the council didnt bother to check.

Many questioned why there wasnt more planning and begged the council to figure out a solution for the sake of the community.

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.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Senators listen to remarks on May 7, 2025. (By Emma Davis/ Maine Morning Star)

The Legislature on Tuesday rejected two bills related to the state recognition of tribes, a longstanding effort that Wabanaki leaders argue would have undermined their continued push for the sovereignty afforded to other federally recognized tribes.

The Wabanaki Nations  the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, Mikmaq Nation, Passamaquoddy Tribe and Penobscot Nation  have federal recognition, which, in theory, gives them the right to self-govern and makes them entitled to certain benefits and federal protections.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, the 1980 Maine Indian Claims Settlement Act has left the Wabanaki Nations with footing more akin to municipalities than independent nations. Overhauling that act is the fight for sovereignty Wabanaki leaders and a growing number of bipartisan lawmakers have been pushing for years, though so far have only seen success with piecemeal change.

The Wabanaki Nations do not have state recognition, though thats not as abnormal. Some states have adopted state recognition processes, affording non-federally recognized tribes a path to official acknowledgement but in a way that doesnt afford the same sovereignty or access to resources.

Thats the type of process Rep. Jennifer Poirier (R-Skowhegan) tried to establish in Maine, though lawmakers rejected it, arguing the state recognition process would subvert the federal process, which is also comparatively a more rigorous one.

This feels like a step backwards, Wabanaki Alliance Executive Director Maulian Bryant told Maine Morning Star about the state recognition attempt. We feel strongly about the validity of the federal process, and going through that. We dont want to complicate an already complicated situation thats been going on for over 40 years now while were trying to make progress.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Poiriers bill, LD 813, would have established a commission appointed by the governor to review applications for state recognition. The House voted 82-57 against this measure on Tuesday and the Senate rejected it without a roll call vote or discussion on Wednesday.

On the floor on Tuesday, Rep. Adam Lee (D-Auburn) pointed to whats happened with Vermonts state recognition process as a reason for Maine to not establish its own.

After a Canadian tribe asserted groups afforded state recognition by Vermont are not Indigenous and are instead appropriating their identity and culture, Vermont is now considering a task force to reconsider past tribal recognition decisions by the state.

Poirier has said shed hoped LD 813 would be unnecessary because of another bill she proposed, LD 812, which sought to provide state recognition for a group called the Kineo St. John Tribe. That measure would afford such recognition without the processes detailed by the former bill.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The House rejected the bill without a roll call vote on Tuesday and the Senate followed suit on Wednesday.

This group, formerly under the name the Kineo Band of Malecite, another spelling for Maliseet, has pushed for this recognition for more than a decade but legislative attempts have so far failed.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
May 7DIXON  In anticipation of Dixon Police Chief Steve Howell's retirement Friday, Dixon Deputy Chief Doug Lehman was sworn in as interim chief at the Dixon City Council's meeting Monday.

The new police chief will be selected in the first week of June by a committee of 10 community members. As of now, the city is only looking at internal candidates. So far, four Dixon officers have applied for the position, Dixon City Manager Danny Langloss said.

Until then, "Deputy Chief Lehman will have the full authority of the chief [and] lead our department. We're very excited about that and thank him for stepping into this role," Langloss said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lehman has served on the Dixon Police Department for more than 25 years and has been in law enforcement for 29 years, Langloss said.

"[Lehman's] been a very good police officer for many years. ... This will give him an opportunity to help with that transition between Chief Howell and our selection of a new police chief," Mayor Glen Hughes said in an interview with Shaw Local Radio.

Lehman has not applied for the chief role and plans to only serve as interim chief, Hughes said.

"That's actually a positive," he said. "We don't have a conflict situation there."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To select a new chief, the city formed a committee led by Jon Mandrell, vice president of academics and student services at Sauk Valley Community College. Mandrell is a former police officer who served on the Polo and Oregon police departments during his career before making the switch to academics, Langloss said.

The other nine members are Langloss; council members Mary Oros and Mike Venier; SVCC Police Academy Director Jason LaMendola; Discover Dixon Executive Director Amanda Wike; Dixon Public Schools Superintendent Margo Empen; two Dixon police officers; and the city's new chief people officer, who will start in that position May 22, Mandrell said.

Mandrell said they might be adding an individual from the state's attorney's office as well, but "I think it's a good representation of our entire community on the committee."

Over the next couple of weeks, the committee is holding focus groups with officers to find out what their priorities are for the department going forward and what they're looking for in their next leader, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Having feedback from the officers will be critical," Mandrell said.

The candidates then will go through a two-step interview process. First, they'll develop a 10- to 15-page "management action plan" that details their vision for the department in the future and present that plan to the committee May 22.

Next, all candidates will be invited to the formal interview May 23, when they'll talk more about their department vision, leadership style and philosophy, and answer questions about their ability to lead at the executive level, Mandrell said.

Howell's retirement marks 26 years of serving at the Dixon Police Department. He began at the department in 1999 as a patrol officer, then served as a school resource officer for about two years before serving as a detective. In 2008, he was promoted to sergeant; became detective sergeant in 2015, leading all major investigations; and then was appointed chief in November 2017, according to dixongov.com.
SKANEATELES, N.Y. (AP)  Farmer Jeremy Brown taps the nose of a young calf. I love the ones with the pink noses, he says.

This pink-nosed animal is just one of about 3,200 cattle at Twin Birch Dairy in Skaneateles, New York. In Browns eyes, the cows on the farm arent just workers: Theyre the boss, theyre the queen of the barn.

Brown, a co-owner at Twin Birch, is outspoken on the importance of sustainability in his operation. The average dairy cow emits as much as 265 pounds (120 kilograms) of methane, a potent climate-warming gas, each year. Brown says Twin Birch has worked hard to cut its planet-warming emissions through a number of environmentally sound choices.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ruminants are the solution, not the problem, to climate change, he said.

___

EDITORS NOTE: This story is a collaboration between Rochester Institute of Technology and The Associated Press.

___

Wearing a weathered hoodie and a hat promoting a brand of cow medicine, Brown was spending a windy Friday morning artificially inseminating some of the farms massive Jerseys and Holsteins. He stepped over an electric manure scraper used to clean the animals' barn.

The electric scraper means the dairy doesn't have to use a fuel-burning machine for that particular job. Twin Birch also recycles manure for use on crops, cools its milk with water that gets recirculated for cows to drink and grows most of its own feed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite all that, the farm has no desire to pursue a U.S. Department of Agriculture organic certification, Brown said. Doing so would add costs and require the farm to forego technology that makes the dairy business, and ultimately the customers jug of milk, more affordable, he said.

He raises a question many farmers have been asking: Is organic farming just a word?

Declining enthusiasm for the organic certification

An increasing number of American farmers think so. Americas certified organic acreage fell almost 11% between 2019 and 2021. Numerous farmers who implement sustainable practices told The Associated Press that they have stayed away from the certification because its costly, doesnt do enough to combat climate change and appears to be losing cachet in the marketplace. Converting an existing farm from conventional to organic agriculture can cost tens of thousands of dollars and add labor costs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The rules governing the National Organic Program were published in 2000, and in the years after, organic farming boomed to eventually reach more than 5 million acres. But that has been declining in recent years.

Any downward trend is significant, as organic farms make up less than 1% of the country's total acreage, and organic sales are typically only a tiny share of the nationwide total.

Shannon Ratcliff, a farmer and co-owner of organically certified Shannon Brook Farms in Watkins Glen, New York, attributes the decline to a 2018 fraud case in Iowa involving a farmer selling grain mislabeled as certified organic. The whole thing went crazy  work requirements for farmers ramped up and inspection levels were higher, she said.

It's also just a tough business, Ratcliff said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Her co-owner, Walter Adam, also thinks younger generations' interest in farming of any kind is also declining.

It takes six months to learn everything, Adam said. We cant find anybody as willing to work on the farm.

Adam drives to Manhattan each week to sell their meat and eggs at markets, and spends Sunday mornings helping Ratcliff with business at the Brighton Farmers Market in Brighton, New York.

Frank Mitloehner, a professor in animal science in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at University of California Davis, said lack of flexibility and efficiency are driving farmers away from organic in an era of rising prices for farmers. He said organic standards need to be overhauled or the marketplace risks organic going away completely.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I am in awe that so many organic farmers were able to produce that way for that long, he said. It seems that they are losing consumer base in these financially troubling times.

But the label still matters to some buyers

Still, there are consumers determined to buy organic. Aaron Swindle, a warehouse employee at a chain supermarket, spends every Sunday morning shopping for organic groceries at the Brighton Farmers Market.

The taste quality is different when its growing nearby, Swindle said. He calls the Finger Lakes of New York a trifecta, a region that contributes dairy, produce, and meat for its residents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

John Bolton, owner of Bolton Farms in Hilton, New York, said he has some reservations about organic certification, but hes pursuing it for his hydroponic farm, which grows produce in nutrient-rich water instead of soil. It produces greens such as kale and chard and is popular as a supplier for restaurants in western New York, and draws waves of regular customers at the Rochester Public Market on weekends.

Bolton doesnt use pesticides. On a chilly day this spring, he was at his greenhouse unloading 1,500 ladybugs to do the work of eliminating the operations aphids. That's the kind of practice organic farms use to earn the certification, he said.

He said his operations arent immune to the dangers posed by climate change. Abnormally hot days affect their greenhouse, he said: Its devastating to not only the people but the plants."

But Bolton described the organic certification as economically and environmentally beneficial to his farm. Getting the certification will carry an expense, but he is confident it will be worth the price.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It helps with sales. And you feel good about it  youre doing the right practices, Bolton said.

___

The Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.
As the conclave is held to select a new pope, LGBTQ Catholics hope that the next leader of the church will continue the inclusion work Pope Francis started more than 20 years ago.

Pope Francis, who died at 88 last month, was the first pontiff to be publicly inclusive of the LGBTQ Catholic community. He didn't change doctrine, but he changed the conversation by voicing support for legal civil unions, personally meeting with LGBTQ groups and extending blessings to individuals in same-sex unions.

"Francis was really a breath of fresh air, and a revolutionary in the way he was telling Church leaders to approach and relate to LGBTQ people," said Francis DeBernardo, executive director of New Ways Ministry, a Catholic outreach that educates about and advocates for LGBTQ persons.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

DeBernardo said the previous two popes before Francis held anti-gay views, probably the most strident in the Church's history. Under Francis, the papacy adopted a different tone toward the LGBTQ community.

Some clergy and Catholics within the community hoped the conclave  in which some front-runners appear to share Francis' inclusive views  will continue along his path.

St. Peter's statue and cardinals during the funeral ceremony of Pope Francis at the Vatican on April 26, 2025. / Credit: Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images

"Who am I to judge?"

Just four months after Francis became pope in 2013, he created controversy when, during a July inflight press conference, he responded to a journalist's question about gay clergy members. He said: "If someone is gay and he searches for the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?" Francis' answer went against years of Catholic precedent.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These words, which reverberated worldwide, set a very different tone from the previous relationship the Church had with gay clergy and members. His predecessors John Paul II and Benedict XVI were far less accepting of LGBTQ people. Benedict XVI published the first modern formal statement denouncing homosexuality in 1986.

The treatise was written by Benedict while he was still a cardinal under Pope John Paul II. John Paul endorsed Benedict's message, and he also explicitly denounced legal recognition for same-sex marriage. Those sentiments prevailed in 2003 when the Vatican officially opposed same-sex unions.

In response to the Vatican's hardline stances, LGBTQ people held protests during John Paul's 1987 U.S. visit. During his trip he stopped in multiple cities, but the resistance was most notable during his time in San Francisco. San Francisco was reeling from the AIDS epidemic and during the visit, the pope was met with activists holding protest signs and participating in candlelight processions and prayer vigils, hoping to enact change.

In the Catechism of the Catholic Church, which is an official document that outlines Catholic beliefs, the Church still views homosexual acts as "intrinsically immoral and contrary to the natural law." The text says that homosexual tendencies are "objectively disordered."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cristina Traina, a professor in the Theology department at Fordham University, says the language used in the catechism to describe homosexuality doesn't easily translate into everyday life.

"You could read ["objectively disordered"] as just a technical term, but people read it as fundamentally evil and broken," Traina said. "It's a technical term, but it certainly does not work pastorally."

With his public comments, Pope Francis began to change the narrative. Francis called homosexuality "a human fact," during a May 2024 interview with CBS News' Norah O'Donnell. He personally met with LGBTQ Catholic groups, including DeBernardo's New Ways Ministry, and he clarified that transgender people can be baptized and serve as godparents.

Pope Francis and Norah O'Donnell speak during a 2024 interview. / Credit: 60 Minutes

Potential for continued progress

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Traina sees the potential for continued progress within the Church despite the death of Pope Francis, because attitudes among everyday Catholics have changed.

"These things change on the ground and in practice, and then they change at the Vatican, and that's the last thing that changes," Traina said.

A 2020 study from UCLA's Williams Institute found that there were approximately 11.3 million LGBTQ adults in the U.S., and about 5.3 million of them are religious, including about 1.3 million who are Roman Catholics.

Although 69% of Americans support same-sex marriage, political figures such as Vice President JD Vance, a Catholic convert, continue to push for traditional family values and support laws allowing for religious exemptions to LGBTQ protections. While campaigning for his U.S. Senate seat in 2022, one of the laws he said he would vote "no" for is the Respect for Marriage Act, which provided federal protections for same-sex and interracial marriages.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Teresa Thompson is a member of Catholic Lesbians at the Church of St. Francis Xavier in New York. Catholic Lesbians was founded in 1995 and has over 300 members.

Thompson, who grew up Catholic, started to distance herself from religion during college, which also coincidentally was when she came out as a lesbian. Although her move away from religion was not due to her sexuality, she felt as though she couldn't return to Catholicism. That began to shift when Francis adopted a more compassionate tone toward LGBTQ people, and Thompson discovered communities that welcomed her.

Ahead of the conclave, Thompson expressed hope that the next pope will continue the work Francis started.

Cardinals attend the sixth Novemdiales Mass held for the late Pope Francis, in St. Peters Basilica, May 1, 2025. / Credit: Antonio Masiello/Getty Images

"I think there's a sense of nervousness, not being sure what is going to happen," Thompson said. "If we look at the structure of the College of Cardinals, Francis appointed so many cardinals that it seems unlikely we would  go back, but also, who's to say?"

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sister Jeannine Gramick, co-founder of New Ways Ministry, believes the next pope will mirror the path of Pope Francis rather than undo his legacy.

"My sense is that the cardinal electors will elect somebody who [will follow] in the footsteps of Pope Francis," Gramick said. "So if that proves correct, then the changes that Pope Francis brought about will not be undone."

In her conversations with LGBTQ Catholics, Gramick says that she senses a lot of hope for the future, and there is hope for a pope who will go even further than Francis did.

"[LGBTQ] people, they're looking for more changes, and I think the primary change they're looking for is to change the sexual ethics teaching of the church," Gramick said. "The catechism has not been changed yet."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Watching the conclave for clues

With the conclave set to begin, some of the cardinals who could be contenders seem poised to continue Francis's legacy. As CBS News has reported, they include:

Cardinal Peter Erdo, archbishop of Budapest, HungaryCardinal Fridolin Ambongo, archbishop of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo Cardinal Mario Grech, secretary general for the Synod of BishopsCardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's secretary of state Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin patriarch of Jerusalem Cardinal Luis Tagle of the PhilippinesCardinal Matteo Zuppi, archbishop of Bologna, Italy Cardinal Anders Arborelius, archbishop of Stockholm Cardinal Gerald Cyprien Lacroix of Quebec

Cardinal Grech has advocated for more compassionate language when speaking about LGBTQ people and has spoken about the importance of the inclusivity of all members, including LGBTQ people, according to New Ways Ministry.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cardinal Tagle has also spoken compassionately about LGBTQ Catholics and was an ally of Francis. Cardinal Zuppi is another contender supportive of Francis's embrace of LGBTQ Catholics, according to New Ways Ministry.

"I am voting for Cardinal Tagle to be the first Filipino pope," Thompson said. "I think in character and ideas, he's very similar to Francis, and I used to live in the Philippines, so I also have a special place in my heart for the idea of a Filipino pope."

Traina says she is also hopeful for someone like Tagle, but notes that predicting who will be the new pope is almost impossible.

"It's often hard to tell what (a cardinal) will actually do when they get into the papacy, because Francis was also a surprise," Traina said. "Since we have a global College of Cardinals, now the list of possibilities is much longer."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Although Thompson is throwing her personal support behind Cardinal Tagle, she urges the electorate to set aside their political motivations while casting their votes.

"I really hope this will be a moment where leaders can practice what they preach," Thompson said. "In Ignatian spirituality, there's a practice of making decisions through discernment, [where you] let go ... of your preconceived notions [and] allow the Holy Spirit to guide you. ... I would say please try to let politics go and try to listen to how the church really wants to move forward."

Here are some of the front-runners to be the next pope

Sneak peek: The Depraved Heart Murder

Fraud | Sunday on 60 Minutes
Two LGBTQ+ organizations sent a brief to the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals Tuesday night urging it to block President Donald Trumps transgender military ban. The letter came hours after the Supreme Court allowed the administrations executive order barring trans people from the military to go into effect while the case is argued in federal court. Experts say it is a longshot effort.

Queer rights groups have won two nationwide injunctions against the trans military ban from different judges. The Supreme Court lifted only the second injunction, in the case known as Shilling v. Trump. But the first injunction, in Talbott v. Trump, issued by the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals, remains legally untouched. In that case, a federal judge ruled that the governments argument for barring transgender service members was ripe with unadulterated animus. Tuesday nights brief, sent by GLBTQ Legal Advocates and Defenders and the National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR), argues that the ruling from the Supreme Court has no bearing on the injunction in the first case, which they are fighting in court.

Shannon Minter, legal director of NCLR and a lead attorney on Talbott v. Trump, told The 19th that the Trump administration has continued to display hostility toward transgender service members even while claiming in court that the policy was not discriminatory.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We have the secretary of defense out in public just repeatedly describing that the policy is based on hostility towards transgender people, Minter said. Hes expressing thatin the crudest terms imaginable.

Minter cited a May 6 post on X from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth in which he celebrates the ruling: No more pronouns, no more climate change obsessions, no more emergency vaccine mandates, no more DUDES IN DRESSES, Hegseth wrote. We are done with that sh*t.

Experts say that because the Supreme Court allowed the ban to take effect while the legal challenge to Trumps executive order is still playing out, it will likely rule in favor of it.

Transgender journalist and advocate Imara Jones suggested in a statement that the ruling signaled a wider trend where discrimination against transgender people is greenlit at the highest levels of government.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Supreme Courts decision to uphold Trumps ban on transgender soldiers in the military, even as the judicial process works its way through the overall question of service, signals that open discrimination against trans people is fair game across American society, Jones said.

Ezra Young, a constitutional law scholar and civil rights attorney, urged trans service members to reach out to their lawyers, stating that Tuesdays decision did not definitively mean the end of their careers.

It doesnt mean that they have decided for the first time ever in American history that trans people arent protected by laws that everyone else is protected by, he said. All this means is theres a pause in a single case.

Minter said that means the issue of animus remains unanswered, and he wants the D.C. Court of Appeals to stand by its injunction.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We wanted to make sure that the D.C. Circuit recognizes that the stay order from the Supreme Court doesnt tie its hands, Minter said.

LGBTQ+ advocates had won an injunction in a third case, Ireland v. Hegseth, though that case only impacted two trans service members and is unlikely to impact service members nationally.

A full transgender military ban would result in one of the largest layoffs of transgender workers in history. Trans people are historically twice as likely to serve in the military as their cisgender peers, according to the U.S. Transgender Survey, and the military is the largest employer in the nation. The Pentagon has estimated there are 4,240 transgender people currently serving.

The Court has upended the lives of thousands of service members without even the decency of explaining why, Minter said.

The post LGBTQ+ legal groups ask judge to block trans military ban appeared first on The 19th.

News that represents you, in your inbox every weekday. Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter.
Imran Latif will be allowed to continue his role as councillor for Penylan ward - @imran.latif.cardiff/Instagram

A Liberal Democrat councillor took part in a pro-Palestine protest at a police station, a court has heard.

Imran Latif, 45, walked into Cardiff Bay police station in June and chained himself to another protester at the front desk, a court has heard.

The councillor, who has sat on Cardiff council since 2022, pleaded guilty at Cardiff magistrates court to locking himself to a person to cause significant disturbance at a police station. He was acquitted of one other charge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite his conviction, he is set to continue his role as councillor for the Penylan ward.

The 45-year-old has sat on Cardiff council since 2022 - @imran.latif.cardiff/Instagram

The court heard the incident took place just hours after 50 to 60 people protested against the war in Gaza by walking through Cardiff city centre.

Protesters went to the police station over concerns about someone who had been arrested at the demonstration, the court was told.

South Wales Police said 16 people were arrested after the spontaneous protest at the front desk at 9.30pm on June 3.

Fully realises the foolishness of that moment

Nadeem Majid, representing Latif, said he was not part of the demonstration that had taken place in the city centre earlier that day.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mr Majid said the councillor had attended the scene at the police station to find out what was going on.

He said Latif fully realises the foolishness of that moment and added that to his credit, he has been fully transparent.

Latif, who was suspended by his party after his arrest, was handed an 18-month conditional discharge by District Judge Mark Layton.

He was also ordered to pay a total of 776 at Cardiff magistrates court.

A second charge of using threatening or abusive words or behaviour likely to cause a disturbance was dismissed after no evidence was offered.

A second charge of using threatening or abusive words or behaviour likely to cause a disturbance was dismissed - @imran.latif.cardiff/Instagram

Mr Majid, of M&M Solicitors, said: The conclusion of the matter today, resulting in one of the two charges laid against him being dismissed, is a great weight lifted off the shoulders of councillor Latif, who has had this matter hanging over his head for some time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Councillor Latif is pleased with the outcome of his case and is grateful to his legal team for their assistance and will now continue to serve his constituents in his capacity as councillor.

After the sentence, a Cardiff Council spokesman said: A conditional discharge by a magistrates court does not preclude a Councillor from acting in the office of member of a Local Authority in Wales.

In due course, it will be a matter for the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales to consider whether the actions of the councillor will meet the threshold of an investigation of a potential breach of Cardiff Councils Members Code of Conduct.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats said they will now review the incident that took place in June 2024 through their internal processes.

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.
President Donald Trump is planning to send a planeful of deportees to Libyabut both of Libyas governments say they wont take them, The Washington Post reported Wednesday.

Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh, the prime minister for the Government of National Unity based in Tripoli, wrote on social media that Libya refuses to be a destination for the deportation of migrants under any pretext.

Dbeibeh said that Libya would not be held to any agreements made by illegitimate entities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Libyan National Army, which controls the eastern half of the country from Benghazi, also released a statement rejecting the arrival of deportees from the United States, saying that accepting deportees would violate sovereignty in the homeland.

While the U.S. government only has foreign relations with Dbeibehs government, the son of Khalifa Haftar, the general turned warlord in the east, visited with Trump administration officials last month. The meetings were not about deportations, according to the State Department and a Libyan official, CNN reported.

Its not clear that any formal deal was made to facilitate the removal of immigrants to a potentially hostile host country. Libyas migrant detention centers are notorious for subjecting detainees to severe beatings, sexual violence, extortion, and forced labor, according to a 2021 report from Amnesty International.

Lawyers for immigrants currently held in Texas have asked a judge for an emergency order barring any potential deportations to Libya. The lawyers argued that carrying out such a flight without warning would blatantly violate court orders.

Previous reports said that a military plane potentially carrying hundreds of immigrants could depart for Libya as soon as Wednesday, so its entirely possible that wheels are already up on the latest phase of Trumps inhumane mass deportation crusade.
GRANVILLE, Ohio (WCMH)  Licking County municipalities are at odds over control of resources as development shakes up small Ohio communities.

Johnstown, Alexandria and Granville united under the Municipal Utility Coalition of Licking County, a water and wastewater treatment coalition intended to give the local governments more control amid rapid development. On May 1, the coalition announced a services plan and submitted it to the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency for review. The same day, Jersey Township sued the coalition for allegedly developing the plan out of the public eye, and some residents worry the plan will raise taxes.

The coalition proposed short- and long-term solutions for centralized wastewater treatment in west and northwest Licking County. The plan accounts for the significant growth the area is projected to see and expands water treatment system capacity. If approved by the Ohio EPA, it would cost $108.3 million over the next five years, and $327.5 million over the next 20 years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

East Columbus development sparks resident concerns

Jersey Township and Township Administrator Rob Platte sued the coalition governments, alleging the utility proposal was discussed in violation of the Open Meetings Act by discussing the plan in executive sessions without public input. Jersey Township and Platte are asking for $500 per violation and for all decisions made in those meetings to be declared invalid.

According to the complaint, the governments discussed the utility plan without reflecting those discussions in official meeting minutes. Platte and Jersey Township allege the other governments entered executive session for imminent court action but instead discussed the utilities plan, violating public meeting law.

Granville, Johnstown and Alexandria mayors vigorously denied the lawsuits allegations. The mayors also said a Jersey Township trustee threatened litigation against the city of Johnstown in July 2024, which city leaders said contradicted claims made in the lawsuit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If Mr. Platte and Jersey Township are serious about a sustainable future they could be part of the solution. Our door remains open, Johnstown Mayor Donny Barnard said.

Major tech developments from companies like Google, Intel and Amazon are helping spur rapid growth in western Licking County. In November, Granville Village Manager Herb Koehler said the Coalition was formed to give local municipalities a seat at the table amid development. Koehler said the utility coalition prioritizes community needs in important discussions about growth.

Moreno on immigration, Trump, stocks

Jersey Township is not covered by the Municipal Utility Coalition and instead gets its water services from the Licking Regional Water District. This year, the Licking Regional Water District expanded its board of trustees, including a new representative from Jersey Township.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Jersey Township is not the only Licking County organization concerned with the utility expansion proposal. The Licking County Conservatives spoke out against the plan on Facebook, fearing it could invite even more development or drive municipalities to bankruptcy. The group also condemned the Coalitions delay in presenting the plan to the public.

The Coalition disagrees, saying the plan will allow affordable, locally controlled resources amid development. Koehler said the new water plan was based on the Licking County FRAMEWORK report, which was developed by local residents, businesses and governments to balance growth while maintaining local character.

We want to encourage thoughtful, organic growth while ensuring that our local schools and other critical community needs are not neglected, Koehler said. Our inside-out approach will allow us to increase treatment capacity and construct centralized sewers as the need arises, allowing us to keep sewer rates affordable.

The lawsuit is pending in Licking County Common Pleas Court. The Coalitions plan awaits feedback from the Ohio EPA, after which the Coalition will submit a final plan the the agency. Once the final version is submitted, the Ohio EPA will make a recommendation to the Governors office, which will then request approval from the national EPA.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
LINCOLN COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  Lincoln County leaders are proposing changes to how they regulate ownership of exotic animals.

Some people are worried the new rules arent written clearly enough.

As proposed, you have a ban on almost all pets other than cats and dogs, said one man who spoke during the public comment period of the Board of Commissioners meeting. Its a ban on any species not native to North Carolina.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Nearly a dozen people addressed Lincoln County commissioners, all speaking against a possible change to the countys exotic animal ordinance.

I dont want future generations to suffer because of a bill passed through ignorance, said another man.

They claim that if the board passes the regulation as its currently written, it leaves too much up to interpretation and would essentially ban the breeding and ownership of all animals not native to the Tar Heel State.

A blanket ban is not the solution, one woman told commissioners. Instead of protecting animals and people, it punishes responsible owners, undermines personal freedoms and could even do more harm than good.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Commissioners have changed some of the wording in the proposal. Even so, they heard their constituents concerns and decided against a vote for now.

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.
NEW DELHI, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The Indian government on Wednesday confirmed carrying out air strikes on nine identified "terrorist-training camps" located in the Pakistan-controlled Kashmir.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally monitored the air strikes, according to Indian media reports. 
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  DMVs across the county are experiencing long lines as people rush to obtain their Real IDs, which are now required for domestic flights and access to federal buildings.

Many arrived early on Wednesday morning, such as in San Diegos Clairemont neighborhood, to secure their place in the DMV line. That included local Anthony Garcia, who told FOX 5/KUSI that he was prepared to wait it out with his coffee and breakfast in hand.

Now that Real IDs are essential for travelers and those needing entry into federal facilities, many are rushing to start the process of obtaining them before their upcoming trips.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

REAL ID in California: What to know if you will miss the deadline

For example, Garcia plans to travel to Wisconsin in August to visit his daughter, which is why he is trying to secure the new ID ahead of time.

DMV officials are reminding applicants to bring all necessary documents, even if they have started the process online. This includes provide proof of identity, Social Security number and proof of California residency.

One local applicant said, So I uploaded my document, but I didnt bring the entire file so they made me come back again.

Flying without a REAL ID? Heres what to expect

Another San Diegan ensured he had all required paperwork for his renewal and Real ID application, stating, Its a renewal, drivers license and real ID.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For those without a Real ID, domestic travel is still possible, but additional identity checks at airports will be necessary.

As the deadline for Real ID requirements passes, DMV locations are expected to remain busy.

FOX 5s Elizabeth Alvarez contributed to this report.

All facts from this article were gathered by FOX 5/KUSI journalists. This article was converted into this format with assistance from artificial intelligence. It has been edited and approved by FOX 5/KUSI staff.

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.
Whats the weirdest thing you learned this week? Well, whatever it is, we promise youll have an even weirder answer if you listen to PopScis hit podcast. The Weirdest Thing I Learned This Week hits Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and everywhere else you listen to podcasts every-other Wednesday morning. Its your new favorite source for the strangest science-adjacent facts, figures, and Wikipedia spirals the editors of Popular Science can muster. If you like the stories in this post, we guarantee youll love the show.

FACT: People used to pay to learn the time

By Rachel Feltman

I recently came across the story of Ruth Belville, known as the Greenwich Time Lady, because she literally sold people time. Or at least she sold people the time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Back in 1675, King Charles II founded the Royal Observatory in order to the finding out of the longitude of places for perfecting navigation and astronomy. He asked for a small observatory to be built at the highest point in Greenwich Park. Almost a century later, the royal astronomer published the first Nautical Almanac, which shared the observatorys findings with seafarers all over the world and allowed them to pinpoint their longitude. That meant people all over were using Greenwich as the starting point from which they measured their longitude.

Up until the Industrial Revolution, every town had kept its own local time based on the position of the sun, so there was, for example, a 16 minute difference between London and Plymouth. Railways meant it suddenly made a difference if you were 16 minutes off all the time. And telegraphs meant there was an actual way to share what time it was. Greenwich Mean Time wouldnt become legally mandated until 1880, apparently because folks kept showing up late to court and blaming their local time zone for the discrepancy.

But accurate clocks werent yet common for most people to own. So how did everyone keep up with the newly standardized time? If they lived within sight of the Royal Observatory, they could watch for the time balls they dropped to mark the hour (and later the clock kept up to date at the observatorys gates). But others turned to a more hands-on service.

Starting in 1836, a former Royal Observatory employee named John Belville charged people an annual fee to use his pocket watch. Once a week, hed come by and visit them and share the time on his watchwhich he kept accurate thanks to his access to the observatorys chronometersso they could adjust their own watches accordingly.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

John died in 1856, by which time the gate clock showed the public the time and anyone could get the time via telegraph if they really needed to. But Johns 200 subscribers knew and trusted the pocket watch system, so they asked his widow Maria if shed take up his mantle. She did so for 36 years before retiring. By the time she left the business, people definitely had other ways of accessing the time. But folks couldnt give up their trusty time lady, so John and Marias daughter Ruth took over. Despite the continued advancement of time-keeping techand the naysaying of at least one ruthless hatershe kept up the business until 1940. She was 86 when she retired, and apparently only did so because World War II made it too dangerous for a woman of her age to walk the streets.

FACT: Bugs have culture, too

By SciAnts

I love thinking about what bugs think about.

New research shows that fruit flies are capable of social learning in ways that resemble what we call culture. In one study, flies developed mating preferences simply by watching other flies make choicespreferring mates with specific colors of dust that had been used to mark them. In another experiment, observer flies that watched others react to predators developed lasting behavioral and physiological changes, including changes to their reproductive systemsdespite never encountering the predator themselves. This visually transmitted fear response was strong enough to persist for days. Even exposure to dead members of their own species shortened their lifespan, while exposure to dead relatives from different species had no effect.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These findings suggest that fruit flies not only learn by observation but may also pass on preferences and fears in ways that go beyond simple instinct, hinting at a primitive form of culture.

FACT: Traffic mimes make jams more peaceful in South America

By Jess Boddy

Road rage can be truly terrifying, and sometimes it feels inescapable in big cities. But what if the answer to the violence and danger that comes with angry drivers was a nonverbal fellow in stripes and white face paint?

Yes MIMES. Back in Colombia in the 1990s, then-mayor Antanas Mockus replaced 1,800 traffic cops with just 20 mimes, who used silent performance to mock reckless drivers and praise good behavior. They helped cut traffic deaths by 50% within a few years. The program ended in the late 90s but was so beloved it still lives on today, having inspired similar efforts in other South American countries, including Bolivias traffic zebras.

Listen to this weeks episode to hear all about how mimes mocked angry drivers successfully, and how it might (or might not) be the answer to road rage here in the United States.
By Andrius Sytas

VILNIUS (Reuters) - Lithuania has closed its airspace to flights carrying the Slovak and Serbian leaders to Moscow for its World War Two victory parade, President Gitanas Nauseda said on Wednesday.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic are among leaders expected to attend World War Two Victory Day commemorations in Moscow, which Russia celebrates on May 9.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The decisions are negative," Nauseda said in a video published by news website 15min, in response to a question on flyover permissions for the two leaders.

Aircraft travelling between Russia and Europe have typically used Lithuanian airspace since European carriers were told in 2021 to avoid the shorter route through Belarus as part of punitive measures against Minsk in response to it scrambling a warplane to force the landing of a Ryanair flight.

Ukrainian airspace, another shorter route, has been closed since 2022 due to the Russian invasion.

Lithuania, which borders Russia and its close ally Belarus, is among the strongest supporters in the European Union and NATO of Ukraine against Russia's three-year-old invasion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Slovakia and Hungary on Wednesday condemned European Commission plans to phase out Russian gas and other energy imports, deepened their rift with Brussels over relations with Moscow.

Nauseda said the ban was due to GPS disturbances in the region. He did not name possible source of the jamming, which several European countries have earlier blamed on Russia.

"Security of all people travelling through Lithuania, including leaders, is our highest priority, so we took this decision", said Nauseda.

(Reporting by Andrius Sytas in Vilnius; Editing by Jan Harvey)
Lithuania is considering launching domestic production of naval drones in cooperation with Ukraine, Lithuanian Deputy Defense Minister Dovile Sakaliene told Ukrainian outlet Militarnyi on May 6.

Under a 1+1 model, Lithuania would fund the production of two drones, keeping one for its own defense and sending the other to Ukraine. The country is particularly interested in Ukraine's Magura-class sea drones, which have been used with success against Russia's Black Sea Fleet.

"Magura, in my view, is an excellent military product," Sakaliene said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The proposed initiative would involve shared weapons production on Lithuanian soil, with Vilnius covering the costs.

"That is, we pay for the production of two pieces of equipment, one of which is transferred to Ukraine, and the other remains in Lithuania, but we cover the cost for both," she explained.

Earlier this year, Lithuania allocated 20 million euros ($21 million) in purchasing weapons for Kyiv from Ukrainian producers. Sakaliene emphasized that Lithuania sees great potential in closer cooperation on technologies like missile and naval drones.

"We believe that cooperation in certain areas related to missile drones, sea drones, and other technologies is truly very promising," she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Magura drones are small, unmanned surface vessels developed by Ukraine, and have become a key asset in the country's naval warfare. Though small in size, they've proven effective against larger warships, helping keep Russias Black Sea Fleet pinned in port.

On May 2, Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR) used Magura-7 sea drones equipped with air-to-air missiles to shoot down two Russian Su-30 fighter jets near the port city of Novorossiysk, HUR chief Kyrylo Budanov told The War Zone on May 3.

The operation was the first time in history that fighter jets have been downed by unmanned naval drones.

Read also: Ukrainian drones reportedly hit Russian fiber optic plant in Saransk

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Lithuania is considering launching the production of maritime drones and other weapons under the "1+1" scheme  one for itself and one for Ukraine.

Source: Militarnyi with reference to Lithuanian Defence Minister Dovile Sakaliene

Details: "Magura, in my opinion, is an excellent military product," the publication quotes Sakaliene as saying. The publication notes that these Magura drones have already proven themselves on the battlefield in the Black Sea and forced the Russian Black Sea Fleet to remain in ports.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In addition to Ukrainian surface attack drones, the Lithuanian Ministry of Defence is also interested in missile drones and other weapons.

The ministry is considering launching joint production of certain types of weapons in Lithuania on a 1+1 basis. Lithuania will pay for the production and transfer half of the weapons to Ukraine.

"That is, we pay for the production of two weapons, one of which is transferred to Ukraine and the other remains in Lithuania, but we pay for both," the minister explained.

"We believe that cooperation in certain areas related to missile drones, maritime drones and other technologies is really very promising," Dovile said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lithuania has recently allocated 20 million to finance certain projects in the Ukrainian defence industry.

Background:

Near the port of Novorossiysk, a Ukrainian Magura surface drone shot down a Russian Su-30 fighter jet. The strike was conducted by soldiers of Ukraines Defence Intelligences Group 13 special unit with a missile. This is the first time in history that a surface drone has successfully shot down a combat aircraft.

Magura V7 is an improved version of the previous Magura V5, which was used to attack enemy ships. It is about 8 metres long and has an improved design for maritime operations in difficult weather conditions.

Earlier it was reported that the plant of the Spanish defence company Tecnove will produce Ukrainian armoured vehicles Djura and Kozak. Tecnove has signed an agreement with the Ukrainian company Praktyka to produce armoured vehicles at its facilities in Erencia, La Mancha (Ciudad Real). The alliance includes the production of two models.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  A Little Rock man is facing theft charges after he was accused of scamming an Ohio woman out of more than $89,000.

According to the Franklin County Sheriffs Office in Ohio, 68-year-old David Nelson was arrested Thursday, April 24.

Woman accused of deadly romance scams facing theft, fraud charges in Arkansas

Deputies said an elderly woman reported in March that she had been called by Nelson, who claimed he was a sweepstakes employee, saying she had won $3 million.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Authorities said the woman told deputies that Nelson told her she needed to pay taxes on the winnings before receiving them. Deputies said the woman sent personal checks to an address in Arkansas totaling more than $89,000 before realizing it was a scam.

They had my daughters demeanor, I mean everything about her Morrilton couple targeted by scam impersonating daughter

During an investigation, deputies tracked Nelson to Little Rock and worked with the Little Rock Police Department to gather evidence and arrest him.

Nelson is currently being held in the Pulaski County Regional Detention Facility while he waits for extradition to Ohio to face the charges.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 KARK.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  The Little Rock School District is asking for donations from the public to help eliminate their remaining school lunch debt for the 2024-2025 school year.

Child nutrition director Stephanie Walker-Hynes said that the school district partnered with the City of Little Rock Food Commission to launch the initiative so they can continue to feed these children.

The majority of the children we feed are at lunch, but we are feeding children at breakfast time too, Walker-Hynes said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders outlines goal for free school breakfast program in State of the State address

Despite their weekly efforts to collect outstanding debts from families with emails, texts or notes sent home with their children Walker-Hynes said the majority of their $174,000 meal debt has been accrued this school year.

A burden she says the community has the power to lift.

The reason this debt is what it is is we buy this food, we pay for the food, we dont get reimbursed for it, Walker-Hynes said. So that debt is tagged to our program.

In the previous school year, Walker-Hynes said the district received over $300,000 in grant money that allowed them to buy local beef, local produce and local milk. Walker-Hynes says she asked the federal government for $500,000 to supplement their feeding programs this year, but that money has since been cut from the federal budget.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This doesnt just hurt out school nutrition program, it also hurts our local farmers because they depend on our business to keep that revenue and income going for their farms, Walker-Hynes said.

For those who donate through the Lunch On Us initiative website, those funds will be tax deductible.

I have no intentions of making meals unequal, Walker-Hynes said. I believe all kids have the right to eat, I believe all kids have the right to eat the exact same meal, so there is no way in little rock that were going to turn away a child and give them a different meal than their peers because of an inability to pay.

Pulaski County Special School District, libraries set for summer meal programs

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thanks to legislation passed in the Arkansas legislature and signed into law by Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders this year, the district will be able to provide universal breakfast to all children at no charge.

As the school year nears its close, Walker-Hynes said LRSD will also have summer feeding sights set up that will be posted on their website providing students breakfast, lunch or both at 14 different locations.

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 KLRT - FOX16.com.
Working together toward a stronger, safer Memphis, Local leaders react to Tyre Nichols verdict

MEMPHIS, Tenn.  All three former Memphis Police officers charged in a state criminal trial after the death of Tyre Nichols were found not guilty on all charges Wednesday by an all-white jury brought in from the Chattanooga area.

Memphis leaders are now reacting. Some are calling the verdict heartbreaking.

Memphis Mayor Paul Young and Memphis Police Department Chief C. J. Davis released a joint statement acknowledging the verdict and promising to create a safer, more just Memphis for everyone.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

NOT GUILTY: Jury returns verdict in Tyre Nichols trial

Mayor Paul Young and MPD Chief C. J. Davis:

This message is for our community today. My prayers are with the Nichols family and our entire city. I understand the pain were feeling as a life was lost at the hands of officers whose actions dont reflect the values of our police department. Memphis is still healing, and healing demands that we work together. As a city, were committed to doing the work of creating a deeper trust between law enforcement and the people of Memphis, and on behalf of the city, were steadfast in our dedication to creating a safer, more just Memphis for everyone.

Today a verdict was reached in the trial concerning the death of Tyre Nichols, and that has had a profound impact on his family, our department, and city and the entire nation policing in Memphis must always be ever evolving and continuously improving, and I am confident that our team is ready to further the work of creating ongoing change. As I have stated before, we believe in improved policing in training and in progress; we are seeing daily. We recognize the pain and grief this incident has caused, and the men and women of the Memphis Police Department remain committed to rebuilding trust and working together toward a stronger, safer Memphis for all. In the days, weeks, and years ahead, we will continue to work and we will heal together.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tadarrius Beans attorney, John Keith Perry:

Policing is among the most challenging and demanding professions in our society. For Black

officers, the role often comes with an added layer of complexity. They are called to serve with

vigilance, fairness, and compassion, all while balancing the safety of the public, their partners, those in custody, and themselves.

Tadarrius Bean is one of the most principled and dedicated young men I have had the privilege to represent. He worked diligently to earn his place in the Memphis Police Department and built a reputation for professionalism and integrity. Reducing his career to a single moment or painting him with the same brush as others involved does a disservice to the facts and to his record.

It is disappointing that some public figures have chosen to politicize this tragedy rather than pursue understanding. Suggesting that officers like Mr. Bean are the product of lowered standards ignores the reality of his qualifications and his commitment to public service. Statements like these reflect a broader issuea tendency to cast blame before all the facts are known, especially when the individuals involved are Black officers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This city has faced difficult challenges, and the decisions made at the policy level have often failed the officers who serve and the communities they protect. The path forward must include

accountability, but it must also include fairness. We cannot afford a system where the value of an officers life or service is seen differently based on race. Justice must be even-handed. That includes ensuring that Black officers are not disproportionately vilified or discarded when complex situations arise. Mr. Bean deserves a full and fair process, not a rush to judgment.

Tennessee Rep. Antonio Parkinson (D-Memphis):

Although we all watched the horrific death of #tyrenichols unfold before our eyes, a jury found the former officers involved not guilty. All I can think about is the family of Tyre Nichols and how incredibly heartbreaking this must be for them. A truly unfathomable pain.

Tennessee Rep. Torrey Harris (D-Memphis)

Todays verdict in the Tyre Nichols case left me shocked and surprised, as liberty and justice for all proved to be empty words on a paper.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The most important thing to remember, first and foremost, is that all of the officers have already been found guilty on numerous charges in federal court and are awaiting sentencing on those charges. Todays verdict does not change the fact all are facing considerable time in prison. For those who watched the video and were sickened by the savage beating of Mr. Nichols, we all must remember that our faithor lack thereofin the system has been justified. Justice is still being served federally, and todays verdict does nothing to change that.

To Ms. RowVaughn Wells and to every family member and friend, you know we will keep fighting.

Sen. Raumesh Akbari (D-Memphis):

I am heartbrokenand I am angry. What happened to Tyre Nichols was not just a tragedy; it was a brutal injustice. The world watched as his life was stolen in a horrific, senseless beating. And now, his mother, Mrs. RowVaughn Wells, and his loved ones are left to carry a pain no family should ever endure.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We should not have to keep witnessing this. We should not have to keep burying our sons, our brothers, our friends. We are tired of demanding justice that comes too late, if at all. Tired of asking if our lives truly matter in a system that continues to treat them as disposable. Days like these are unbearably cruel. They leave us searching for answersabout the worth of a life, the unbearable weight of losing one, and whether justice truly exists for us all.

Tyre deserved better. And we will fight for his name, for his memory, and for the justice that still feels too far away.

Tyre Nichols: The video evidence the jury saw

Sen. London Lamar (D-Memphis):

I am shocked. I am gutted. This verdict is a devastating blow to a community still grieving the brutal killing of Tyre Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man who died after being violently beaten by members of the Memphis SCORPION police unit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We all saw the video. We saw Tyre cry out for his mother. We saw officers act without humanity or restraint. This case was supposed to show that police can be held accountable. Instead, this jurys decision leaves too many of us wondering if justice is ever possible.

My heart is with Tyres family and everyone in our community carrying the weight of this painful outcome. More than ever, Memphisand communities across our stateneed police officers who protect and serve, not intimidate and harm.

As difficult as todays news is, I take some comfort in knowing that all five officers involved still face sentencing in federal court. That process must reflect the seriousness of their actions and the value of Tyres life.

We have so much work to do to rebuild trust, reimagine public safety, and ensure that accountability in policing is not the exception, but the expectation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tyres life was stolen, and his family was denied the justice they so deeply deserve. We are outraged, and we know we are not alone. We thank the Memphis community and people across the nation who have stood by Tyres family, lifted their voices, and demanded accountability.

Your solidarity has been a beacon of hope in this painful journey. We remain fiercely committed to civil justice and ask for your continued support as we press forward with the civil trial and push for meaningful, lasting reforms needed to stop the cycle of police brutality.

Let this be a rallying cry: we must confront the broken systems that empowered this injustice and demand the change our nation  and Tyres legacy  deserves.

Shelby County District Attorneys Office:

The verdicts mark a pivotal moment in a case that has deeply impacted our city, state, and nation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

From the beginning, we believed the evidence supported the charges and pursued this case in the interest of justice and accountability. Tyre Nichols should be alive today. His death was a preventable tragedy that devastated his family and deeply affected our entire community.

We respect the jurys decision and appreciate their service. While this is not the outcome we hoped for, our commitment to justice and to the people of Shelby County remains unwavering. I hope we can learn from this tragedy as Memphis continues to work to improve its policing practices. We remain committed to transparency, justice, and the work of building public trust. Our office will continue to pursue accountability wherever the facts and the law lead us.

Tennessee Rep. Justin J. Pearson (D-Memphis) :

I struggle to find the words that can fully express the heartbreak and outrage I feel today. My thoughts and deepest prayers are with Mrs. Wells, Mr. Wells, Tyres siblings, and entire family. They have already borne unimaginable painand todays verdict only deepens that wound.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This outcome is both painful and profoundly upsetting. Justice was not served today. No one should be above the lawespecially those sworn to uphold it. The system has once again failed a grieving family, a devastated community, and a nation crying out for justice. Still, I remain committed to standing with the Nichols family and all those seeking justice and dignity for every Black life.

May God carry Tyres loved ones through this dark and difficult time.

Executive Director Vickie Terry of the NAACP Memphis:

Im surprised the prosecution even said okay to the jury being brought in an all-white jury. Come on, lets talk about this, an all white jury for a place like Memphis.

I think that what we need to do is make sure that we stay calm and use a calm head right now because I dont want anything to happen to anybody else like Tyre Nichols.

State Representative G.A. Hardaway:

I think on the state level that we can do more, put more in place to make sure those body cams are not tampered with, by putting stronger deterrents in terms of the actual penalties.

Van Turner, Attorney:

I think a jury of Nichols peers wouldve of perhaps wouldve come to a different verdict, and so you bring in this jury from Hamilton County, theyre disconnected.

There will be some justice on the federal side, hopefully, this is just a bit of a disappointment that we endured all these years to receive this verdict today.

Turner said that all officers were found guilty of some charges in the federal trial and will soon face a sentence for those charges.





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 WREG.com.
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  A Beloit man pleaded not guilty to charges related to an indictment in a child sex abuse material case.

Read next: YPD makes 4th juvenile gun arrest in week

Daniel Nutt, 34, is charged with receipt and distribution of visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct and possession of child pornography following a federal indictment.

The indictment states that Nutt knowingly received or distributed computer files that contained visual depictions of children engaged in sexually explicit conduct from February 3, 2024, to December 19, 2024.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the indictment, it was discovered on December 20, 2024, that Nutt had a phone that contained child sex abuse material. The indictment states that the child depicted was under the age of 12.

According to court records, Nutt was sentenced to prison in 2014 in a child sex abuse material case in Mahoning County. He was granted judicial release from prison in 2018 but was placed on probation for five years.

Bond was set at $20,000 in Nutts recent case. He awaits a pretrial hearing.

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.
AUSTINTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  Local officials are continuing to fight for their funds from marijuana dispensaries in their communities.



Austintown Trustees Bruce Shepas and Robert Santos will be speaking on behalf of Austintown and Mahoning County as a whole in Columbus on Wednesday.



Ohio voters legalized recreational marijuana in 2023. According to the ballot language, communities with a dispensary would benefit monetarily.



A 10% tax thats divvied up to various departments, Santos said. One in particular is 36% to the hosted community. So us is actually going to get a dispensary. So 36% of that tax was supposed to come to us which can range anywhere from $200,000 a year to $700, depending on how well that dispensary does.



Things changed when House Bill 96 passed reducing the amount communities with dispensaries would get and also adding the stipulation that they would get that for only five years.



This is just another form of money that we can receive thats not property tax that will help offset these costs for a certain period of time, and the better it does, the more funds that come down the pipeline, Santos said. Were hoping that the Senate changes their mind, gives that money back to the host community.



Santos will be going as President of the Mahoning County Township Association, while Shepas will be going to represent Austintown. This will be Santos fourth trip to Columbus on the matter and Shepas third.



Theres not many local elected officials to go down, and I think its very important for these Senators and State representatives to hear from us, who are down boots on the ground, who are in need, who are struggling, and they need to start understanding that these are the things that we need to be partnered together, Santos 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 WKBN.com.
SYDNEY, May 7 (Xinhua) -- One body has been found and three people, including two children, have been injured critically in a house fire in northern Australia.

Police in Australia's state of Queensland said in a statement on early Wednesday that emergency services were called to reports of a house fire in Harristown, over 100 kilometers west of Brisbane, around 12:30 a.m. local time.

The house was fully engulfed in flames by the time emergency services arrived at the scene, said the police.

The fire has been extinguished and a crime scene has been declared.

Initial Investigation found that two adults and four children were able to escape the property, but a fifth child from the address was unaccounted for, said the police.

A 36-year-old woman and two children were all taken to the hospital with critical injuries while

A 34-year-old man was also hospitalized with serious injuries, said the police.

Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) reported on Wednesday morning that the police found a body after 9 a.m. local time with formal identification of the deceased ongoing.

An investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing. 
COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL)  Two students at Calvary Christian School have signed with Metro Power to begin their careers in the electrical industry.

Today, Hudson Edwards and Noah Tankersley were celebrated in a special signing day event at the school located on Old Moon Road. The event included remarks from the schools administration, Metro Power representatives and a formal signing.

The school says Hudson and Noah have demonstrated exceptional dedication to their trade education and will take the next steps in their careers with Metro Power.

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.
Although some historical conclaves have lasted as long as three years, they've tended to be shorter in recent years  Pope Francis, for example, was chosen on the second day

Several experts predict that the Catholic church will likely have a new pope by Friday, May 9

"If it's past Friday, then that's interesting because it means they can't get the majority that they leave, and so that means something's going on," one expert explains

In the wake of Pope Francis' death last month, 133 cardinals will be meeting to select the next pope in the secretive election known as a conclave  and experts believe that it will be just a matter of days before the next pontiff is chosen.

A conclave  meaning "under lock and key" in Latin  only occurs when a pope dies. Cardinals flock to Rome from all over the world to elect the next leader of the Catholic church, and this time around, the process will begin on Wednesday, May 7.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Although conclaves in the centuries-long history of the church have taken as long as three years (though that was back in the 1200s, following the death of Pope Clement IV) experts say that it's commonplace for a modern papal election to take only a few days.

Anthea Butler, a professor of religious studies at the University of Pennsylvania, tells PEOPLE that the conclave could only take two days. On the first day, she notes that there will only be one vote, but that'll ramp up in the coming days to two votes each morning and two votes each night (if needed, of course).

"I don't think we're going to go past Friday," she adds. "If they have consensus, it'll be Thursday, but more likely than not, it'll be Friday."

Related: Could an American Be the Next Pope? Here's Who Experts Say Might be the Top Contenders

Jakub Porzycki/Anadolu/Getty Cardinals at Pope Francis' funeral on April 26, 2025. Cardinals at Pope Francis' funeral on April 26, 2025.

Although many people will receive votes in the first rounds, afterwards the candidates typically narrow down  and the process keeps going until the voting cardinals (only those under age 80) are able to reach a two-third majority.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"If it's past Friday, then that's interesting because it means they can't get the majority that they leave, and so that means something's going on," Butler adds.

In recent years, voting has not gone on longer than about two days in recent history  for example, Pope Francis was elected during the last conclave's fifth ballot  but as Butler notes, this time around, there are a lot of cardinals who don't know each other that well.

"That might take some time," she notes. "It's hard to say. You never know what's going to happen."

Notre Dame professor Kathleen Sprows Cummings reiterates that it's hard to say for sure, but she wouldn't be surprised if this conclave runs a bit longer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Pope Francis diversified the College of Cardinals by appointing a lot of cardinals from places that didn't have cardinals before and from far-flung places. So they don't have knowledge of each other and they don't have much knowledge of Rome, many of them," she explains.

Laura Lezza/Getty Cardinals entering to attend the funeral ceremony for Pope Francis at St. Peter's Square. Cardinals entering to attend the funeral ceremony for Pope Francis at St. Peter's Square.

Although the College of Cardinals has been able to work out some efficient methods for hosting a conclave, many elections in the history of the church have been much more complicated  and some, as Catholic studies professor at Sacred Heart University Charles Gillespie puts it, have been "delightfully messy,"

"Conclaves could be months, could be years, could be weeks, historically," Gillespie tells PEOPLE.

"If we think back to the Medieval period or the early modern period, we have to remember the pope was also a temporal ruler," he continues, referring to the pope's historical role as a head of state. "That's still the case today, but most of us don't tend to think about the pope's rule of the Vatican City state and diplomatic relations as the most important part of the pope's job."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"You've got some really delightfully messy conclaves in the Medieval period, where you have times where people disagree about who should be pope, there's a time when the papacy actually moves from Rome to Avignon in France, and you have multiple popes happening at once," he adds.

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.

According to Gillespie, one Italian saint, Catherine of Siena, intervened in the 1300s when the church elected three popes at once because of political turmoil in Europe.

"Those messy conclaves often are because there's always concerns about politics, and economy and the life of ordinary people wrapped up in the election of the pope," he says. "However, in the last century, they've tended to be less than a week. Usually the Cardinals really want the conclave to wrap up in as little votes as possible, as a symbol of church unity."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Although the longest conclave in recent history lasted for five days back in 1922, Cummings says the practice of locking cardinals in until they came up with a new pope originated when the conclave dragged on for three years from 1268 to 1271.

They just couldn't agree, Cummings adds. It's hard to make comparisons with the 13th century, but in some ways it's not  they each had their own opinion.

That was a time when church and state were much more intertwined than they are now," she continues.

Related: Pope Francis Buried at St. Mary Major, a Church with 'Very Beautiful' Connection to His Faith

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite the public's great interest in what happens behind the scenes in the private election, Gillespie says hardly any records exist of what happens during a conclave because all of the cardinals involved take a vow of secrecy.



"The reason the Conclave is in the Sistine Chapel, with that wonderful image of the Last Judgment, that everyone has seen, is a reminder that the votes of the Cardinals aren't just about electing one of their own to take on this leadership role, but it's also to guide the whole church," he shares.

As for the upcoming conclave, the College of Cardinals will lock themselves inside the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday, May 7, to begin the voting process just over two weeks after Francis died at age 88.

When a new pontiff has been selected, he will typically come out to the balcony of the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican and greet the world  and then get right to work, Gillespie adds.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The fact of the matter is, you've got cardinals from every part of the globe, and this is the first time they've all gathered in conclave together, because not everyone was at the big Synod meeting," he finishes. "So, do you want my prediction? I think we'll have a pope in three days."



Read the original article on People
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  Family members, attorneys, demonstrators, observers and Christopher Schurr spent Wednesday waiting as a jury continued to deliberate in the former officers murder trial in the death of Patrick Lyoya.

The jury worked from about 8:30 a.m. to a little after 4:30 p.m., but by the end of the day had not yet reached a verdict.

I cant comment on the proceedings while theyre going on, but the process is the jurys deliberating. Nothing happened today. And so, we just wait, one of Schurrs defense attorneys, Matthew Borgula, told News 8 as he left the courthouse.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He noted its not that unusual for a jury to be out for two or three days.

Im not reading anything into it, he said.

Christopher Schurr listens in a Grand Rapids courtroom on May 6, 2025, as a jury deliberates in his second-degree murder trial in the death of Patrick Lyoya.

Updates from Wednesday deliberations

Jurors had told the judge Tuesday afternoon they couldnt reach a verdict. She told them to keep trying.

They had sat through more than a week of testimony from 23 witnesses, including Schurr, before they got the case Monday afternoon. Their job is to decide whether it was murder when Schurr, then a Grand Rapids Police Department officer, shot and killed Patrick Lyoya following a traffic stop in April 2022.

An undated photo of Patrick Lyoya (Courtesy the Lyoya family)

Supporters of Schurr and the Lyoya family gathered outside the courthouse Wednesday, as they have for days. Schurr supporters had thin blue line flags. Lyoya supporters chalked the sidewalk with the message, Justice 4 Patrick.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Tuesday, there was a commotion outside the courthouse involving demonstrators and police, but the situation was calmer Wednesday. There were a couple of verbal jabs between the two groups and officers stepped in once in the morning to help de-escalate. And there were plenty of more civil one-on-one conversations between supporters from both sides.

Its nerve-wracking, a lot of anxiety we kind of just want to be able to have justice for Patrick, Christian Bartolo, a Lyoya Supporter, told News 8. I think its a good thing that the jury is taking the time that they need to go over the evidence like the judge said.

I dont necessarily have to agree with anyones thoughts or how they feel, but I think respect is respect, Erykai Cage, a Lyoya supporter, told News 8. We just want a verdict at this point. Its all very emotional. Its very draining physically, mentally and emotionally. Its important that we receive a verdict.

Supporters of Christopher Schurr outside the Kent County Courthouse as a jury deliberates in his second-degree murder trial in the death of Patrick Lyoya. (May 7, 2025) Supporters of Patrick Lyoya demonstrate outside the Kent County Courthouse as a jury deliberates in Christopher Schurrs second-degree murder trial. (May 7, 2025) Supporters of the Patrick Lyoya family use chalk to draw on the sidewalk outside the Grand Rapids courthouse where Christopher Schurr is standing trial for murder in Lyoyas death. (May 7, 2025) Officers gather outside the courthouse as more demonstrators gather while the jury continues deliberating in the case of Christopher Schurr, who is charged with murder in the death of Patrick Lyoya. (May 7, 2025)

Schurr supporters shared the same sentiment but said the longer the deliberations go on, the more hopeful they are. Madeline Ring, a Schurr Supporter, told News 8 with whatever outcome there is, that there is no winner, adding she is confident the outcome will be in their favor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We were happy the first and second day and we are moving down the line and I am happy they are taking their time here, Ring said.

Both sides may have clashed on what the verdict should be, but can agree on one thing: They believe the continued work is a good thing.

We are optimistic that the longer it takes it means that they are really thinking this through and considering all the facts and the evidence, and we want them to make a just, rational decision, Ring said.

One demonstrator said he could understand both groups perspectives. Carrying an American flag, he said he has been there to promote unity.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I have mixed feelings about it. I dont think he should have got shot in the back of the head. I think it was just a bad situation on both sides, he said. Look at whats happening in this county, you know? Im just tired of the division on both sides.

Judge tells jurors to keep working after they say theyre deadlocked in Schurr case

The secrecy of the process means its impossible to say what has happened in the jury room during its nearly 20 hours of deliberations so far.

Everyones waiting with bated breath  certainly the demonstrators, Officer Schurr, Patrick Lyoyas family. Everybody wants closure. Everybody wants a conclusion to this, Professor Tracey Brame of Cooley Law School told News 8 Wednesday. But it really is in the jurys hands now and it sounds like they took the judge seriously and are trying to do their job.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She said the first statement that jurors couldnt reach a verdict suggested some of them may have entrenched opinions that they may have to try to overcome by combing through the testimony. She acknowledged the decision is not easy in a case like this one.

The initial deadlock was maybe the remnants of some notion of what they think happened or some perspective that they brought into the jury room, Brame said. And hopefully, they are now, again, peeling back those layers to try to put aside that polarization and say, What happened in this case, regardless of what I think about these issues, about police policy, about the politics of it.

Thats what the judge has been asking them to do and the parties want them to do, is fight through the noise and look at what happened in this case, she continued, and it looks like theyre trying to do that.

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.
Progress, what progress? On the 80th anniversary of VE Day, the world is edging ever closer to another apocalyptic conflagration, with India-Pakistan the latest terrifying escalation. Pax Americana has been shattered, never to return, and with it the delusions of Western modernity.

In eerie parallels to the 1930s, rogue actors are initiating a series of interlinked conflicts around the world that, thanks to a web of alliances, risk joining up into one hideous global war.

We dont yet know whether the massacre of Indian tourists in Kashmir by terrorists will prove to be the casus belli, or whether it might be precipitated by another outrage by Vladimir Putin, or whether the tipping point will be triggered by Irans genocidal mullahs developing a nuclear bomb and using it. We may have to wait for China to invade Taiwan, or perhaps for an entirely different despot to make his move. What is almost certain is that conflict, perhaps even one future historians will describe as World War III, is coming, and there appears to be nobody, no mechanism, no alliance, to stop it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The situation feels hopeless. The Long Peace, as John Lewis Gaddis called it, was an accident of history, a one-off consequence of Americas fleeting supremacy and the Cold War, not, as hubristic Western elites convinced themselves, the byproduct of an inevitable ascent of humanity from superstition to reason.

Multipolar chaos has filled the vacuum left by Americas retreat: there is no longer a global policeman. The legacy post-WWII global institutions, and the liberal, technocratic project they were meant to underpin, have been exposed as utterly useless, only viable under Pax Americana. International bodies have become ineffective, corrupt or captured, with international law (policed by the dreadful ICC), agencies (such as UNRWA) and treaties (such as the Paris Accords) routinely weaponised against the West by Marxists, Orientalists and clever third world statesmen. The EU is destroying its economies and societies. The Global South is laughing at the decadent West, including at Donald Trumps naivety, and Chinas President Xi is meeting his new vassal Vladimir Putin.

America is no longer rich, strong or capable enough to keep the peace, and it wouldnt want to even if it could. Its efforts to do so after 9/11 ended in catastrophe, as did its meddling in Libya and elsewhere. Its confidence and attention span are shot. Years of over-consumption, profligacy and under-production have made it too dependent on inflows of funds that come with geopolitical strings attached. Its over-indebtedness and unfunded liabilities are its Achilles Heel. Trump voters no longer want to serve as cannon fodder in forever foreign wars. His project is very much a defensive retreat, the winding down of the Great American empire, combined with a MAGA version of the Monroe doctrine, which asserts Washingtons sole influence over the Americas (including Panama, Canada and Greenland).

He also wants to prevent a Chinese takeover of the Pacific. He isnt really interested in much else, hence why he has been so keen to believe the lies Putin, Iranians and Houthis have been telling him. With the Europeans having spent the past 30 years squandering the peace dividend, we have ended up with a fractious Western pseudo-alliance excessively focused on counter-insurgency, that has fallen behind in the tech wars and that is physically unable to produce enough missiles or weapons. The collapse in war-fighting capacity has been staggering. Combined with the pathologies of multiculturalism, especially in Britain and Europe, and the rise of pacifism and a woke, anti-patriotic, Western self-hatred, we are even less fighting fit than we were prior to rearmament in the 1930s.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The very opposite is true of our adversaries. The explosion of wealth in the Global South after it adopted versions of capitalism, while wonderful for life expectancy and quality of life, didnt bring about the Westernisation of their societies that virtually all liberals had predicted. Prosperity and the internet were meant to make wars and authoritarian rule unthinkable. It didnt work out that way.

China hasnt embraced democracy and individual liberty; instead, it weaponised its wealth to become the second most powerful military power in the world and its technology to become a vicious surveillance state. The richer it grows, the more dangerous it becomes. Thomas Friedmans Golden Arches theory of conflict prevention, which posited that two countries with a McDonalds would never fight a war, was disproved in Kosovo in 1999, and when Russia invaded Ukraine.

Woke imbeciles pretend only the West is expansionist or racist, but of course that isnt true. Today, Russia wants Ukraine, China wants Taiwan, and Iran, funder of Hamas and Hezbollah, wants to control the Middle East, destroy Israel and ethnically cleanse all minorities. The fusion of imperialism with ethnic hatred is as toxic today as it was in the 1930s.

The balance of power is further complicated by the rise of asymmetric warfare: drones in particular can inflict immense damage on supposedly stronger countries, level the playing field and further destabilise the world. It is just a matter of time before a drone causes an event of a magnitude similar to the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There were many smaller conflicts before the Second World War, such as the Japanese invasion of Manchuria, the Italian invasion of Ethiopia and the Anschluss. We can see similar warning signs today, starting with Putins invasion of Crimea in 2014 under Barack Obama, a seminal moment in the worlds descent into disorder. The period since 2021 has been the bloodiest since the Cold War. The Tigray War in Ethiopia, Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine and Hamas assault on Israel, have reversed the downward trend in deaths from war.

It is a miracle that until Ukraine, two or even three generations of Europeans, North Americans and Australians had avoided missile attacks, invasion, nuclear or biological hell or even, with a few exceptions, mass conscription. What are we thinking? Are we ready to betray not just our veterans, but also our children? Those who made the ultimate sacrifice deserve better than to have us dismantle their legacy.

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.
May 7A Northmont City Schools employee was arrested this week on suspicion of sexual battery.

The district employee, a 49-year-old white male, was taken into custody at Northmont High School around 12:30 p.m. Monday, jail records show.

The Dayton Daily News is not naming the suspect at this time, as official charges have yet to be filed in court.

The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office and Clayton Police Department recently received reports indicating the suspect may have engaged in "inappropriate and unlawful relationships with both current and former students," according to a Wednesday statement from the sheriff's office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The man, who was employed as a Northmont High School bus driver, was arrested after a "detailed investigation," the sheriff's office said.

Northmont schools Superintendent Tony Thomas confirmed Wednesday the bus driver has been employed by the district for 13 years. Thomas said the man has been placed on administrative leave.

District officials declined to comment on the timeframe in which the alleged crimes took place.

The man is currently being held in the Montgomery County Jail as the investigation continues. The case will be presented to the Montgomery County Prosecutor's Office for further review, after which official charges may follow.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigators said they're "deeply concerned" that there may be additional individuals affected by these alleged incidents who have not yet come forward.

The sheriff's office urges anyone with information about wrongdoing by a Northmont bus driver to contact Sgt. Josh Walters at waltersj@mcohiosheriff.org.
TYLER, Texas (KETK)  Officials with the City of Frankston said the city has nearly 25 homes with trees toppled on them and one injury as a result of severe weather.

PHOTOS: Trees down, roads flooded after severe weather hits East Texas

East Texas was slammed with severe weather Tuesday afternoon that caused quite a scare for people in Frankston.

I got in the closet and sat there and the wind was just really hard. It was blowing like crazy and just real loud, Frankston neighbor, Terry Dreier said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Even though the storm has passed, the damage has left its mark on the community. At one Frankston home, more than five trees fell directly on top of the roof.

Our oldest sons room, which is right here, his room is gone, like its destroyed. Theres water damage all in our bedroom and in the living room and the kitchen. So mainly this whole area of the house is destroyed, Frankston homeowner, Kristin Brightwell said.

There was no one in the house at the time, but Brightwell is still shocked by the desrtuction.

I didnt think that it was this bad. I thought maybe one tree had fallen and hit the house and that it was just roof damage, but not this, Brightwell said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Frankston Office of Emergency Management Coordinator Gerald Hall said the path of the storm is quite noticeable in the city.

Nearly 6,000 without power in East Texas counties due to severe weather

Ive got somewhere between 20 to 25 homes that have trees on them. Others have damage and weve got power loss which affected this northwest quadrant of the town, Hall said.

In a separate neighborhood, one person went to the hospital with a broken ankle after a tree fell on the persons home.

The storms impacted much of East Texas from hail in Titus County to flooded streets in Smith County. In Lindale, two cars were swept and stranded in high flooded waters. Some county roads were not passable due to fallen trees.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the Pecan Valley Community in Bullard, neighbors have begun cleaning up and helping each other to clear out debris after trees snapped in half and fell on top of homes.

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 KETK.com | FOX51.com.
More drug consumption rooms could open across Scotland, the countrys senior law officer has indicated.

Dorothy Bain KC, the Lord Advocate, suggested such centres could get the green light as she appeared before the Scottish affairs committee at Westminster and was questioned about the Thistle centre in Glasgow, which opened in January and is the UKs first facility of its kind.

At the centre, drug users can take illegal substances with trained medical staff on hand to deal with emergencies.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ms Bain said she had not received other proposals to set up safer drug consumption rooms but indicated there was no reason why similar projects could not go ahead.

Dorothy Bain, the Lord Advocate, indicated before the Thistle centre opened that its users would not be prosecuted for possessing drugs on the premises - Andrew Milligan/PA Wire

The Glasgow centre, which is a three-year pilot project, opened after the Lord Advocate made it clear that it would not be in the public interest to prosecute its users for possession of drugs.

She suggested to MPs that this stance could be applied in other areas if this was underpinned by the very strong evidence base that there was in Glasgow.

She also told the committee it was not for her to determine what the criteria should be for judging if the Thistle is a success or not, and there would be a rigorous evaluation of the centre.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On the question of whether it could be continued beyond the three-year pilot period, she said that if the situation remained compelling, as it is at the moment, then this could be considered.

Ms Bain was asked by Patricia Ferguson, the committee chairman, if she would consider similar requests for such facilities to be set up by other local authorities. She replied: Any other proposal of the type we got in this case would be considered in the same way.

But she added: I havent received any other proposals.

A demonstration of the use of an AccuVein vein finding device at the Thistle centre in Glasgow - Jane Barlow/PA Wire

The Lord Advocate told MPs that the area where the Glasgow centre is based is one where there were particular issues around open drug use, adding that this had an impact on both the local community and businesses in the area.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Lord Advocate continued: There would be no reason why we couldnt make the same sort of assessment in relation to another such facility, so long as it was underpinned by the very strong evidence base we were given in order to make the decision for the Thistle centre.

While simple possession offences committed within the confines of the facility are not prosecuted under section 5(2) of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, it does not extend to people on their way to and from the facility or anywhere else in Glasgow, and drugs seized by police will not be returned to an individual.

Supt Joanne McEwan of Police Scotland told MPs it was not the forces aim to target those using the facility.

She said: Somebody on their way to the facility, that on its own would not offer an officer reasonable grounds to search, to stop and search that person.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Supt McEwan pointed out that if an officer had reasonable grounds to search somebody and found them to be in possession of a suspected controlled drug, then somebodys assertion that they were going to the facility would not provide a defence.

In March, Allan Casey, Glasgow city councils addiction services convener, told the committee there is a need for more facilities like the Thistle in both Scotland and across the UK.

Recent figures showed there were 251 suspected drug deaths in Scotland between December and February, up from 215 the previous quarter.

It prompted Neil Gray, the Scottish Health Secretary, to warn of the dangers of an increasingly toxic and unpredictable drug supply.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Scottish Labour has warned, however, that the safe consumption room pilot is not a substitute for a co-ordinated effort to stop the supply of drugs by criminal gangs who have no thought for the tragedies they unleash.

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.
Mexican band Los Alegres del Barranco has been charged by the Fiscalia del Estado de Jalisco (Jalisco State Prosecutors Office) for allegedly advocating crime. Authorities in the Mexican state are investigating the band after projecting images of a criminal leader while performing the song El del Palenque during a concert on 29 March at an auditorium of the University of Guadalajara.

Now, a judge will determine whether or not to initiate legal proceedings against the members of the group, their legal representative and the promoter of their concerts in a hearing scheduled for Monday (May 12), which would mark a precedent in regional Mexican music.

More from Billboard

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The members of a musical group that showed images referencing a figure from organized crime during a concert in Zapopan have been formally charged in a criminal court today for allegedly promoting criminal activity, read a statement from the Jalisco Prosecutors Office on Tuesday (May 6) shared with Billboard Espanol. Similarly, charges were also brought against the groups manager and the promoter of their concerts.

According to the statement, the judge imposed precautionary measures on the four members of the band, their manager and the promoter, meaning they are not allowed to leave Jalisco. Additionally, they will have to pay a bond of 1.8 million pesos (about $92,000), which amounts to 300,000 pesos per person.

Article 142 of the Jalisco Penal Code states that publicly inciting the commission of a crime or glorifying it  or any vice  can be punishable by up to six months in prison. Experts consulted by Billboard Espanol note that since this type of penalty is less than four years, it can potentially be served outside of prison if the judge allows it.

The group and their representatives chose not to make any statements during a hearing on Tuesday, according to the statement. Billboard Espanol has reached out to the bands representatives for comment but has not received a response at time of publication.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Jalisco State Prosecutors Office confirmed to Billboard Espanol that three open investigations into Los Alegres del Barranco for allegedly advocating crime. The first one corresponds to the investigation against them for projecting images of the leader of the Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generacion (CJNG), Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias El Mencho, during their concert on March 29. This fact even caused the United States to revoke the work and tourist visas of its members, as announced on April 1 by the U.S. Undersecretary of State, Christopher Landau, in a post on X.

The second investigation was opened after, on May 3, the group allegedly projected on screens during their show the lyrics of the controversial corrido El del Palenque, which alludes to the aforementioned drug lord. The third folder corresponds to another presentation, on May 4, in which the group allegedly incurred in similar acts, in the municipality of Tequila, according to a press release from the Jalisco State Prosecutors Office on May 5.

The President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, said on Wednesday (May 7) that it was the decision of the Jalisco State Prosecutors Office to prosecute the members of Los Alegres del Barranco for allegedly advocating crime, and reiterated that her government is not in favor of banning the narcocorrido genre.

My position is that it should not be banned, but that other music should be promoted. Rather than prohibiting, it is more important to educate, guide and encourage people and young people to stop listening to that music, said the Mexican president during her morning press conference.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The controversy over Los Alegres del Barrancos alleged homage to the drug trafficker comes in the wake of the debate over how the cartel founded in Jalisco uses clandestine ranches to recruit people to the criminal group through deceitful job offers, as reported by federal authorities and the media. This follows the discovery of the Izaguirre Ranch in the municipality of Teuchitlan, where acts of torture and murder were allegedly committed, as denounced by the Guerreros Buscadores collective in early March.

Ten (out of 32) states in Mexico have implemented several new bans against narcocorridos or any expression that advocates crime, without it being a federal law.

Best of Billboard

Sign up for Billboard's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
PHOENIX  Erika Mateo resigned herself to the grim reality that she would die in the desert. Worse was the thought of losing her unborn daughter.

The 24-year-old was nearing the final month of her pregnancy and wandering alone through the Sonoran Desert south of the United States-Mexico border. She had been separated from her group, unable to keep up because of her condition.

Some of them tried to help me, but they were also afraid of being caught, Mateo said in a Phoenix hotel room, shortly after her release from Department of Homeland Security custody.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Thats when I suddenly found myself lost, not knowing where to walk or where the path was, she said in Spanish to a reporter from the Arizona Republic, part of the USA TODAY Network.

In the week since her desert ordeal, Mateos story has become a flashpoint, sparking community outrage, drawing international attention and pushing local elected officials to help save her from having to choose between quickly leaving the United States with her newborn or leaving her behind under state care.

Thanks to that attention, Mateo has avoided expedited deportation proceedings, becoming one of a handful of people to receive a Notice to Appear from the Border Patrol  the first step in the process to petition for asylum, which has been rarely afforded since President Donald Trump returned to office.

In February and March, the first two complete months of this Trump administration, only three people have been issued this form after being held in Border Patrol custody, as reported by U.S. Customs and Border Protections open data portal. The figures for April remain undisclosed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By comparison, in December, the last full month of President Joe Bidens tenure in office, more than 7,000 Notices to Appear were issued.

Desert rescue

Mateo had traveled from her home in Guatemala, now more than 2,000 miles away from the maze she was traversing to enter the United States. Mateo left behind a large family: her mother and father, as well as her brothers and sisters. She remained in contact with them along her journey.

In the interview, she did not say why she left her home country. Her attorney told The Republic her migration was "for fear of violence.

Allan Perez Hernandez, the Guatemalan consul of Tucson, described Mateos mother as an Indigenous woman from the Huehuetenango region of Guatemala, an area in the country's impoverished Western Highlands from which hundreds have fled.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the United Nations Human Rights Council, widespread violence, organized crime, socioeconomic instability and poverty are the primary reasons why people are leaving Guatemala and other nations in the Northern Triangle of Central America.

Whatever drove her to leave, the last days of Mateo's journey were terrible.

I walked and walked, but everything looked the same. It was like walking in place, Mateo said. She was frantic. I would burst into tears pleading with God to help me find a way or for someone to find me.

She feared being attacked by coyotes, snakes or any other animals hunting in the moonlight. But the stillness of the desert was what she feared most, Mateo said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The silence was horrible. I couldnt hear anything, she said.

Mateo walked for two days in the desert, hoping to reach a highway to wave down help. On her second day, she reached the border wall in a remote part of southwestern Arizona near Sasabe.

She walked along the fence until she found a gap that allowed her to cross into America.

I was exhausted. I was thirsty. I was hungry. So I sat down, she said, and found she could no longer get up. Pains in her stomach began soon after. I gave up. This was as far as I was going to make it.

This is how it ends for me, she told herself.

Instead, Mateo was found by Border Patrol agents near the fence, close to an area referred to as Tres Bellotas Ranch, approximately 74 miles from Tucson.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She was given a bottle of water by Border Patrol, taken to be fingerprinted and processed, then to a detention center, she said.

Giving birth

When she woke up the next day, she began to feel contractions.

Taken to Tucson Medical Center, I was told that I was at risk of losing my unborn child because of dehydration in the desert, Mateo said.

But Baby Emily was born healthy on the evening of April 30, weighing 6 pounds.

I know that I risked her life, but she is doing well, she said, studying the newborns tiny features.

Erika Mateo holds her newborn, named Emily, as she sits in her Phoenix hotel room on May 3, 2025. She said she never separated herself from her child for fear the baby would be taken away from her.

After giving birth, Mateo remained in the hospital in the custody of CBP, with agents stationed at her hospital room door. She had given birth to a U.S. citizen child, but the circumstances surrounding her entry into the country made her future uncertain. She faced the risk of swift deportation under the Trump administrations expedited removal policy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I was scared that they would take away my baby, so I never separated myself from her, Mateo said. They told me the decision was up to me.

Legal representation

Shortly after, Luis Campos, a Tucson-based immigration attorney, became aware of Mateo's situation.

"I called the family back in Guatemala. They told me, 'Please help, please represent her," Campos told The Republic on May 2. Mateo agreed to the lawyer's offer to represent her pro bono.

But when he tried to visit her at the hospital, he was turned away.

Federal officers said he needed a signed G-28 form identifying him as the woman's lawyer before he could see her, Campos said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I need to see her so she can sign the document. I can't give you a signed G-28 because you're not giving me access to my client," Campos said he told the officer.

Erika Mateo and her lawyer, Luis Campos, a Tucson-based attorney who has practiced immigration law for nearly 30 years, discuss what comes next in Mateo and her newborn's journey. Photo taken on May 3, 2025, in Phoenix.

CBP said in a statement that it had acted appropriately. At all times, agents followed the law and adhered to CBP procedures. No entitlements were denied," the statement said.

Without access to Mateo, Campos felt he had no other recourse but to go public, describing what he called a denial of the Fifth Amendment constitutional right to speak to a lawyer and due process.

A community responds

Hundreds showed up May 3 to protest Campos being denied access to Mateo, as well as changes made by the Trump administration to U.S. immigration and asylum policies.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We have a very active community here. You know, being a border city, we're trying to help people who have been affected by the new strict immigration laws, said Margaret Smith, a mother of five, who joined the protest. We've been noticing community members literally disappearing ever since Trump was in office.

These are our community members. They're our neighbors. We don't want to send our friends away. We don't care where they're from, Smith said about undocumented residents and mixed-status families in her community. We would want them to stand up for us, so we're standing up. Tucson is resisting.

On the nightstand of Erika Mateo's hotel room in Phoenix on May 3, 2025, a balloon with the words "It's a girl!" and a baby bottle were among her few possessions, along with four bags of clothes and baby supplies she had received from Tucson Medical Center.

Campos and Tucson activists caught the attention of elected officials in Arizona and media outlets worldwide.

Tucson Mayor Regina Romero posted a supportive statement on her social media accounts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

People in the United States, regardless of legal status, have a fundamental right to due process that has been reaffirmed by the Supreme Court as recently as April 7, 2025, Romero wrote. Denying this mother access to legal representation is both inhumane and a violation of her basic rights.

The mayor called the denial of Mateos ability to speak with her attorney federal overreach.

It is unacceptable to treat a medical facility as an extension of xenophobic policies, especially when a newborns health and safety are at stake, she wrote, urging compassion and respect for due process.

Gov. Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, also weighed in.

While Gov. Hobbs supports securing the border, she has been clear in her opposition to inhumane immigration enforcement practices, Hobbs' spokesperson, Liliana Soto, said May 2 on X. The governor will continue fighting to protect the constitutional rights of every Arizonan and keep our communities safe.

On May 3, journalists were told that the Governors Office was actively engaging with federal and local officials to gather further information.

A reprieve

Initial reporting indicated that Mateo was facing expedited removal. She had the option to either bring her newborn with her when she was deported or leave the baby in the United States, a CBP spokesperson told the Arizona Daily Star.

Campos said, "I believe that the public support for her and the outcry for what was happening might have helped in this case."

In the hotel room in Phoenix, Mateo expressed relief at being out of CBP processing centers and waiting rooms.

Obviously, its better than being in the desert, she giggled, laughing away the helplessness she felt while lost. But you know you still feel a depression, an anxiety. It was cold in there.

Mateo and her baby were discharged from the hospital on May 2. She returned to the processing center where she had previously spent the night.

She was awakened at about 4 a.m. on May 3 for the newborn to be seen by a pediatrician.

Mateo was then handed over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody.

In a news release on May 5, the agency said that after the transfer, ICE Phoenix Enforcement and Removal Operations immediately released her under its Alternatives To Detention program while awaiting her appearance before an immigration judge with the Justice Departments Executive Office for Immigration Review.

Her attorney made the two-hour drive up from Tucson to the Phoenix area and picked up Mateo in the parking lot of a school.

We met Erika for the first time, and she seemed completely healthy, the attorney said in the lobby of a Phoenix hotel room a few hours after the pick-up. We loaded her items into our car off the IRC van, and we brought her to this hotel. She is exhausted.

Mateo's only possessions included four bags with clothes and baby supplies given to her at the Tucson hospital.

She was also given two important legal documents, including the Notice to Appear, which communicates that she would be scheduled for a hearing before an immigration court in Tennessee, where she has a family friend with whom she plans to stay, Campos said.

Although her journey through the American immigration court system is only just beginning, Mateo expressed joy that she and her daughter are now safe in the United States and gratitude to the community that rallied around her.

There are people that, even without knowing you, still offer their support. I am so grateful to them, Mateo said. I will never be able to pay them for what theyve done for me, including my lawyer, but theres a God that will bless them.

USA TODAY is publishing only a single last name for Mateo. Campos expressed concern about his clients full name being published, citing safety concerns for her well-being and her family in Guatemala.

Reach the reporter at rromeroruiz@gannett.com and follow him on X, formerly Twitter, @raphaeldelag.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Lost and pregnant at US-Mexico border: Migrant tells her story
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill filed a lawsuit against the City of Baker and several of its council members, accusing them of violating the Open Meetings Law.

According to the lawsuit, a citizen filed a complaint against the Baker City Council to Murrill, stating they denied the publics right to offer comments during a March 3, 2025, special meeting. The council members were also accused of having an improper agenda and wrongfully conducting executive sessions, which violates the states Open Meetings Law.

A special meeting was held to discuss City Attorney Ken Fabres qualifications for the position.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lawsuit states that a vague item was listed for the meetings agenda: Executive Session to discuss personnel matters. It did not describe the issues being addressed specifically. The council performed an investigation and made findings in an executive session.

Final action was taken without proper procedure, violating laws that prohibit final decisions in closed sessions.

Murrill is requesting that all actions taken during the March 3 meeting be voided, an injunction be issued requiring the City of Baker and the council to comply with Louisiana law, and for the city to cover the Attorney Generals attorney fees.

The defendants listed in the lawsuit include the City of Baker, Mayor Darnell Waites, and council members Desiree Collins, Rochelle Dunn, Cedric Murphy, Charles Vincent, and Robert Young.

Latest News

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 Louisiana First News.
ISLAMABAD, May 7 (Xinhua) -- At least eight civilians, including a child, were killed and 35 others injured, and two missing early Wednesday after India fired missiles at six locations in Pakistan, said the Pakistani military.

The casualties resulted from the Indian strikes on areas in the Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, said the director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations, the media wing of the Pakistan Army. 
Members of Omega Psi Phi fraternity at Xavier University of Louisiana perform a step routine Jan. 17, 2025, at a kickoff event for the school's 100th anniversary. (Greg LaRose/Louisiana Illuminator)

The Louisiana Legislature is advancing a measure that would allow colleges and universities to contact the parents of students experiencing a mental health crisis.

House Bill 202 by Rep. Delisha Boyd, D-New Orleans, would require colleges and universities to offer privacy waivers to students that would allow the schools to contact a pre-designated person in the case of a mental health crisis or situation in which the student poses a risk to themselves or other.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The measure is necessary because colleges are currently not able to contact parents under privacy laws that protect adult students, Boyd said. Students would be given the option to fill out the waiver.

Legislators on the House Committee on Education described the proposal Wednesday as a fail safe. It comes on the heels of several high-profile deaths on college campuses.

Just recently, we had a student at Xavier University that committed suicide about a month ago, Boyd told the committee. Imagine if someone had paid attention to the change in attitude, the personality or what have you, it could have ended in a different way.

Boyds bill will next be discussed on the House floor.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
The Caddo Parrish Sheriff's Office responded to a welfare call on Monday morning and found Leroy Sadler, 60; Judy Sadler, 64; James Sadler, 29; and 2-year-old Adalynn Mae Sadler

A spokesperson for the coroner's office tells PEOPLE that the deaths of Judy, James and Adalynn have been classified as homicides

Adalynn's mother Kara will now have to bury her daughter on Mother's Day

Four people are dead following a murder suicide that occurred early Monday morning in Louisiana  and now a woman will spend Mother's Day burying her toddler daughter.

The Caddo Parish Sheriffs Office said that deputies responded to a residence in Keithville just before 7 a.m. on May 6 in response to a welfare call.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Deputies on the scene tried unsuccessfully to engage with an individual inside the house, according to the CPSO.

A short time later deputies heard a single gunshot from inside the residence, at which point a drone was deployed to search the residence.

Deputies were then able to see that there were four deceased individuals inside the residence. They were identified by the County Coroner's office as Leroy Sadler, 60; Judy Sadler, 64; James Sadler, 29; and 2-year-old Adalynn Mae Sadler.

gofundme

Authorities have yet to release the name of the shooter, but the Caddo Parrish Coroners Office classified the deaths of Judy, James and Adalynn as homicides.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Public records show that the incident occurred at the home of Leroy and Judy, and the CPSO said that "neighbors of the suspect informed investigators that the suspect was possibly a doomsday prepper."

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.

Kara's cousin, who created a GoFundMe to help raise money, writes that Adalynn Mae "was beautiful, so intelligent, and always full of joy."

Caddo Parish Sheriff's Office

She went on to call the toddler "the brightest light in Karas life and truly the sweetest little girl you could ever meet."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The post then revealed how Kara would now be forced to live every mother's worst nightmare on the worst possible day.

"Instead of spending this Mothers Day weekend with her baby, she will be laying her to rest," reads the post. "No mother should ever have to feel that kind of pain."



Read the original article on People
A bronze cast of The Thinker sits outside Grawemeyer Hall on the University of Louisville's campus. (Kentucky Lantern photo by McKenna Horsley)

If you or someone you know is at risk for an eating disorder, the National Eating Disorders Association has resources and a free screening tool at www.nationaleatingdisorders.org The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 988.

The University of Louisvilles Eating Anxiety Treatment (EAT) Lab, which treats and researches eating disorders, has lost nearly $300,000 in federal funding, money that covered salaries for two scientists, among other things.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Termination notices from the National Institutes of Health, housed in the Department of Health and Human Services, were sent to the lab over the last two weeks and shared with the Lantern. The funding cutoff appears to be part of President Donald Trumps sweeping efforts to root out and end support for diversity, equity and inclusion activities.

The notices say the research projects in question are antithetical to the scientific inquiry, do nothing to expand our knowledge of living systems, provide low returns on investment, and ultimately do not enhance health, lengthen life, or reduce illness.

Worse, so-called diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) studies are often used to support unlawful discrimination on the basis of race and other protected characteristics, which harms the health of Americans, the notices say.

Cheri Levinson is director of the Eating Anxiety Treatment (EAT) Lab. (Photo provided)

The two staff members whose jobs were defunded through this action  a post-doctoral fellow and Ph.D. student in clinical psychology  are non-white, but their research wasnt related to DEI, said Cheri Levinson, the director of the EAT Lab and an associate professor with the University of Louisville.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One project was focused on identifying who is most likely to develop eating disorders and learning how to prevent them. The second was learning how to most effectively treat eating disorders.

Cutting the work sends the message that government officials holding the purse want people to continue to suffer from mental health problems, Levinson said.

The NIH has not yet responded to a Lantern request for comment.

Trump has issued executive orders gutting DEI programs and activities across the federal government. The Trump administration also has reduced funding for medical and scientific research at universities, including the University of Louisville and the University of Kentucky, although federal courts have temporarily blocked those cuts.

  if being a woman is a DEI issue

Eating disorders are widespread and can be deadly. The COVID-19 pandemic increased their prevalence in Kentucky.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

About 9% of Americans live with eating disorders, which can lead to a preoccupation with food intake, weight, calories and more, according to the National Eating Disorders Association. Girls are more likely to have disordered eating, according to research that the Lantern has previously reported.

Luis Sandoval-Araujo, the doctoral student, said hes mostly researched how eating disorders developed in young girls. He studied a group of girls aged 6-8 and 10-12, following them over the course of two years to see what factors contribute to eating disorder development.

The research doesnt really have anything to do with DEI, Sandoval-Araujo said. I guess theres an argument to be made that the research is focused particularly on women, for example, because were looking at 6- to 8-year-old girls, 10- to 12-year-old girls, and their mothers. So  if being a woman is a DEI issue, then that could be the arguments. But  that doesnt really make sense.

Before its termination, the federal diversity supplement was a way to ensure scientific fields were open to people of minority racial and ethnic backgrounds, former foster care youth, first generation students and other marginalized groups.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Chronicle of Higher Education reported in February that the diversity awards being eliminated by the Trump administration are fundamentally identical to the non-diversity equivalents but helped scientists from diverse backgrounds have equal access to funding.

This funding mechanism, and other funding mechanisms like it, definitely, more often than not, are used by scholars of diverse identities, particularly racial and ethnic minorities, said Sandoval-Araujo. So (cutting it) likely has a disproportionate effect on people of color, people from minoritized backgrounds, all that kind of stuff. Is it directly racist? I dont think so, but its hard to ignore the impact.

Sandoval-Araujo said that losing the diversity supplement will cost him a $25,000 stipend, but the loss will not interrupt his studies.

Even with the loss of this grant, Im still able to support myself, he said. I have another year fellowship from the university directly that Im going to be using for my funding. But if I didnt have a fallback option, for example, Id have to spend additional time during my studies to be a teaching assistant or do some type of other assistantship in order to get my stipend, which is really not a lot.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It still stings, because you make plans around having that money, having that funding, he said. It pays for my tuition, my stipend, a little bit of travel money for me to attend conferences and disseminate our work, which is really important and really impactful.

The funding also covered extra training  outside of his university classes  that he needed for his work that is now going away.

It costs a lot of money for me to attend the class on advanced machine learning techniques that Im no longer going to be able to do because that money doesnt exist, Sandoval-Araujo said.

Lab turns to GoFundMe

The lab is now trying to raise the lost funds on its own so Sandoval-Araujo and the post-doctoral fellow can maintain their work. Meanwhile, Levinson said she is working to put her staff on other projects to keep them in the lab.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A GoFundMe set up by the lab to make up for the federal cuts says the staff whose jobs are affected are essential to the lifesaving work we do developing better treatments and preventions for eating disorders. These are researchers who are dedicated to advancing our understanding of eating disorders  complex mental health conditions that affect millions of lives but remain deeply misunderstood and underfunded.

The fundraiser also asserts: These grants were terminated because of the color of these trainees skin, with no consideration to the harm that these terminations will cause on the progress of the work and the trajectory of these trainees careers.

Its unclear what will happen to the active patients who were involved in this research, Levinson said, but she warned that the cuts could cause real harm.

The decision to cut money that was promised through August 2026 actively risks lives in an active clinical trial, Levinson said. It also risks just so many more lives that we dont even know how they would be saved by the work that these young scientists are doing.

Cuts are infuriating

Kimberly Osborn, who graduates with her doctorate in counseling psychology this month, planned to work as a post-doctoral fellow at the EAT Lab and research a topic shes deeply passionate about: the intersection of eating disorders, trauma, suicidality and sleep.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Osborn, a former foster youth who survived an eating disorder and suicidality as a teenager, saw firsthand the need for evidence-based eating disorder care and treatment.

She applied for diversity supplement funding but the program was cut before she could get it. That means that while she will continue to assist Levinson in research as a post-doc, she wont have the funding to do her own research, which delays me. She plans to apply for other grant opportunities, but that process could take a year.

She said the grant termination affecting her two colleagues demonstrates a lack of critical thinking. The diversity supplement funding, she said, isnt about giving minority communities the upper hand. Rather, she said, it was a way to balance it out for people who are doing work and just need extra support.

In the termination notices for two of her colleagues who already had been promised funds, the NIH said that the award had been related to research programs based primarily on artificial and non-scientific categories, including amorphous equity objectives.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Osborn finds the allegation that the labs research is non-scientific infuriating and completely untrue.

I work with patients. I see the impacts of eating disorders, she said. Dr. Levinson, along with a lot of the trainees that she supports  many of which are diversity scholars  are directly making an impact on improved outcomes and literally saving lives. To say that just because its done by someone who is from a diverse background, or who have these kinds of supplements  is offensive and untrue.

Data published in the medical journal JAMA in 2023 showed about 1 in 5 children have disordered eating.

This harms everyone, Levinson said. Everybody knows somebody that has an eating disorder. We might not talk about it a lot, but the work that were doing on my team is making a huge impact to stop eating disorders and these sorts of terminations are not only harmful, but theyre undoing decades of work to be able to get to the point where we can make a difference and make it so that people dont have to die and suffer and lose their joy because of eating disorders.

Help is available

If you or someone you know has an eating disorder, you can get help through the National Eating Disorder Association by calling 800-931-2237 or chatting online at nationaleatingdisorder.org.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Louisville Center for Eating Disorders provides nonemergency services, including outpatient therapy. Visit louisvillecenterforeatingdisorders.com or call 502-205-1114 for more information.

The Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 988.
Florida Capitol in Tallahassee. (Photo by Jay Waagmeester/Florida Phoenix)

The Florida Legislature passed a bill at the 11th hour of its regular session that could shutter low-performing nursing schools in an attempt to improve the states standing on the national nursing exam.

Before the legislative session started, lawmakers sought answers from nursing school administrators about why Florida has the worst passing rate on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A proposal creating harsher penalties for nursing programs seemed unlikely to pass until the House inserted it into another bill before the clock struck midnight on May 2, the deadline to take up policy bills.

The Florida Center for Nursing based at the University of South Florida included this chart in its annual report showing the states pass rate for the national licensure exam for registered nurses compared to the national rate.

If DeSantis signs HB 1427, nursing schools with passage rates 10 percentage points below the national average would end up on probation, and they would have two years to improve the scores before getting shut down.

Although Floridas NCLEX passing rates are the highest theyve been in a decade, the 2024 rates for registered nurses and practical nurses to get their licenses (84.9% and 80.78%, respectively) are well under the national average, which was 91.16% for RNs and 88.38% for PNs, according to the annual report from the Florida Center for Nursing.

Members, this is a great bill that will set us up to allow for nursing education to be the number one in the state of Florida, whereas now, we are number 50, said Palm City Republican Rep. Toby Overdorf on the House floor Friday. This is where we need to be working hard and getting to that new level of nursing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Florida Board of Nursing placed 16 programs on probation in 2024, nine of which were for-profit private institutions, according to the Florida Department of Health. The board terminated four programs last year.

Additionally, nursing program directors who fail to submit annual reports by Nov. 1 detailing their number of applicants, retention rates, accreditation status, and scores for a newly required exit exam could face disciplinary actions, including revocation of their nursing license and fines up to $10,000.

Im worried that were gonna be negatively impacting people from applying to be nursing directors here in the state, said Senate Democratic Leader Lori Berman. Five senators voted against the bill, with Sarasota Republican Sen. Joe Gruters joining Democrats.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  Lt. Gov Henderson has ordered a stay of the controversial union bill as county clerks continue to certify more signatures in an ongoing effort to force a referendum on the law.

The order released Tuesday afternoon comes after many county clerks have reached the required signatures to certify the referendum process. The order will stay H.B. 267, meaning it will halt the new law from going into effect, while clerks continue to count. As of 9 a.m. this morning, the verified count stood at 245,513.

More than 320k Utahns sign referendum to appeal labor union bill, double the required amount

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Lieutenant Governors order contains three parts:

H.B. 267 will not take effect until further notice listed within the order

County clerks will continue to count and certify signatures as is the law

The order will remain in effect until one of the following: 5 days after the Lt. Governor finds the referendum insufficient, or Indefinitely when the referendum is certified.



[We are] proud that the Lt. Governor ordered a stay preventing H.B. 267 from going into effect, The Protect Utah Workers Coalition said in a statement. This deeply unpopular bill would have stripped public workers of our rights. We are one step closer to letting voters, not politicians, decide the future of collective bargaining in Utah.

H.B. 267 passed the state legislature on Feb. 6, 2025, and was among the first bills that Governor Spencer Cox signed into law. The bill prevents collective bargaining among public employees by prohibiting public employers from recognizing public unions as a bargaining agent. It also prohibits the agreement to contracts from public unions, and prevents public money to promote unions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gov. Cox signs controversial public union bill, along with 12 others

As a part of the referendum process, the Lt. Governor has authority under their election powers to stay bills that are the subject of a referendum initiative. According to Utah State Code, the governor is required to issue a stay when a bill is subject to a referendum, and its procedural for this to be issued.

The count continues as clerks count the remaining signatures and engage in signature verification. Updates on this count are given at 9 a.m. and will continue until the signatures are all processed.

Latest headlines:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Why in the name of God is Lucy Powell still not sacked? You will probably have heard that the Leader of the Commons interrupted Tim Montgomerie, a Reform UK commentator, when both were panellists on Radio 4s Any Questions last week. Talking about the rape gangs, Montgomerie raised a powerful Channel 4 documentary which had just been broadcast, Groomed: A National Scandal, and Lucy Powell quickly jumped in. Oh, we want to blow that little trumpet now, do we? Yeah, lets get that dog whistle out, she sneered.

In a bitter irony, Powell was repeating the same appalling pattern of deflection and denial that the documentary had just exposed. For more than 40 years, young girls in the UK have suffered rape and sexual torture at the hands of depraved men, mostly of Pakistani origin, who pimped them out to their relatives, mates and paying customers. When the girls or their parents complained to the police, the council or social workers, their stories were usually dismissed, swiftly buried or investigated (yeah, right). Often, the authorities, most of them Labour-leaning like Powell, feared giving offence to the Muslim community or being perceived as racist. That was seen as far more important than safeguarding children.

Credit: Any Questions? | BBC Sounds

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dont forget it was  and is  politically embarrassing to upset Muslims who tend to vote en masse for Labour candidates. Many Leftist politicians, including serving Cabinet ministers (Angela Rayner, Wes Streeting, Jess Phillips, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper), depend hugely on their votes. The Government recently rejected a national inquiry into the Pakistani rape gangs, the biggest scandal in our countrys history, preferring to give a paltry few million quid to several Labour councils to investigate themselves with all the vigour one might expect. For some reason, the chosen councils did not include the towns and cities (like Bradford) where the worst abuse is believed to have taken place. If you had to give a name to this strategy it would be: Raped Girls for Votes.

Thousands of poor, white children, some of the most vulnerable individuals in our society, have cynically been sacrificed for the sake of the Lefts electoral survival. The Faustian pact involved is so horrifying that all Labour ministers can do is accuse those who call them out of being racist. That is what Lucy Powell tried to do to the extremely decent and thoughtful Tim Montgomerie.

When she was taken to task on social media by people like me for her despicable comments, Powell initially insisted that she had been taken out of context. She was merely rebuffing a line of political attack, you see. Soon after, with criticism mounting, Powell apologised if her remarks were unclear.

She tweeted: In the heat of a discussion on AQ, I would like to clarify that I regard issues of child exploitation & grooming with the utmost seriousness. Im sorry if this was unclear. I was challenging the political point scoring around it, not the issue itself. As a constituency MP Ive dealt with horrendous cases. This Gvt is acting to get to the truth, and deliver justice.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Unfortunately for Powell, she had been perfectly clear. The mask had slipped, that was all, and for a few seconds we glimpsed the ugly face behind the self-righteous, butter-wouldnt melt facade. Those like Montgomerie, who refuse to genuflect to the multicultural religion (Christianity being a tad judgmental for Starmers Marxists), have to be gagged and silenced in order to create the fairer Britain the Government wants to usher in. Those who are guilty of wrongthink and ask awkward questions  like why are Pakistani-origin men so disproportionately responsible for child sexual exploitation (not abuse, exploitation)?  can be safely exiled outside the ideological bubble and, therefore, beyond the bounds of acceptable discussion.

Talking about grooming gangs equals hate speech, which is illegal (or soon will be if Labour smuggles in its Islamophobia definition). That is why Lucy Powell felt so confident that by uttering the phrase dog whistle (guaranteed to get a Pavlovian reaction; dog whistle = racist bad) she would ensure Montgomerie was a pariah fit only for cancellation. Exactly what happened to the actor Laurence Fox when he insisted on another BBC current affairs show, Question Time, that Britain was not a racist country, actually it was a rather nice, tolerant place. Most of us privately agreed, of course, but Fox had put himself outside the ideological bubble and was therefore guilty of hate speech so his career was over.

In fact, it was Lucy Powell, not Tim Montgomerie, who was guilty of political point scoring. Her timing could not have been worse, poor dear. The massive success of Reform in Thursdays elections made it very difficult to paint the partys passionate concern about the rape gangs as simply a vile preoccupation of the far-Right. If it was, at least a third of the population were now far-Right and very angry about the industrial-scale abuse of white, working class girls by Muslim men who saw them as easy meat. Suddenly, there were an awful lot of Reform voters holding forth on radio and TV and they seemed not just sensible but (whisper it) rather nice.

As a result, the smug, holier-than-thou cabal on the mainstream media found themselves having to discuss topics which, only 24 hours earlier, they had ruled unacceptable. This is the first time I have listened to Any Answers in many years without fearing an immediate brain haemorrhage. Well done to all those who rang in to tell the startled presenter what the citizens of Planet Normal feel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Our Prime Minister is delighted to recommend Adolescence, a Netflix drama which comfortingly, if unstatistically, suggests that the knife-crime epidemic arises in white boys from stable homes with two loving parents. How I wish we could sit the entire Labour Parliamentary Party down and oblige them to watch Groomed: A National Scandal. Twenty-one years ago, producer Anna Hall was the first person to expose the pattern, now familiar as gang grooming, in her groundbreaking, Edge of the City. In this new film, Hall focusses on five women who survived unimaginable abuse and trauma over 20 years.

Sir Keir Starmer and other senior Labour figures were accused of covering up the scandal by Elon Musk - Stefan Rousseau

Jade had a lovely mother, but her alcoholic dad turned to heroin and started leaving his young daughter with the men who sold him drugs. Jade was taken into care and met a Pakistani man, an abuser she thought of as her boyfriend. After the initial blandishments, Jade was passed around like a ragdoll. Seven of the abusers relatives took turns with her in a toilet when the child was so drunk she could barely stand up. She was trafficked to so many towns, she couldnt remember all the names. Finally, in 2009, in High Wycombe, police and social workers became concerned about Jade and put a protection order on her. One night, Jade left the home to go and meet her abuser and took another girl with her. Police arrested Jade for inciting sexual activity on a minor. I didnt even know what those words meant. Jade, who was supposed to be under police protection, was the one who was arrested under grooming charges, while the foul fiend who groomed her got off scot free. Jade ended up with a five-year jail sentence and was put on the Sex Offenders Register if you can imagine such a thing.

Miraculously, now in her early thirties Jade has turned her life around. She is a devoted mother to her children, although it upsets her she is not allowed to accompany them on school trips because a CRB check still brings her up as a sex offender. Jade comes across as a strong, warm, thoughtful woman. But when Anna Hall asked her how many men she thought had abused her, Jades face sort of collapsed and her mouth became a gash of grief. She looked like a little girl howling. Its in the hundreds, but I try not to go there.

All five  Jade, Chantelle, Erin, Scarlett and Steph  told essentially the same story. Innocent, trusting girls fallen among a pack of wolves, and judged by the authorities who were supposed to protect them. In the early 2000s, in West Yorkshire, Erin was being controlled by one man who pimped her out. On one occasion, he and his cousin used her to have vaginal and anal sex at the same time. It really hurt. When they was done with me, I was crying and screaming. He said hed kill me if I spoke about it. Erins desperate mum took her to the police station with a pair of her daughters knickers covered in semen. Erins mum pointed out her child was covered in bite marks from head to toe. Police did nothing. Social services said: Erin who had been raped frequently puts herself at risk. Erin had made a lifestyle choice, police said. The Childrens Services Assessment Board wrote: Erin is a very promiscuous girl. Erin was 13 years old.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chantelle, who looks like a Botticelli painting of an angel who has spent a thousand years in hell, was only 12 when it started. Eleven men taking turns. Like thousands of others, she was called a child prostitute, even though the police knew full well sex with a child is illegal.

Anna Hall produced a chilling video of young Pakistani males who were asked why the girls they groomed were so young and one explained, Its cos the younger girls you can take advantage. They can never get out.

In 2002, when Jayne Senior, a wonderful youth worker in Rotherham, helped with a Home Office report which found that 268 girls known to Jayne and her team were definitely being raped, with a further 63 possibles, no charges were brought. They didnt want to hear what we had found, Senior recalls. I was told I needed to stop rocking the multicultural boat. Dog whistle, see? Must be racist.

Maggie Oliver, today a formidable champion for the abused girls, then a Greater Manchester police officer working on Operation Augusta, reported dozens of men  Pakistani men  sending younger boys to pick up girls from the care homes. Just like cannon fodder. Asked about reports that things are better today, Maggie snapped, Bulls---. Its happening now. Jade agrees: Probably some other little girl today.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Steph recalls that one of her abusers worked for Greater Manchester Police. She identified him, but he was never investigated because they said hed left the force. Dont want to open that can of worms, do we, Lucy?

The Augusta report (The perpetrators are almost exclusively Asian males) never saw the light of day. Countless reports, apologies from the police and social services, politicians promising inquiries theyd rather didnt happen.

Back in January, when Elon Musk intervened, hardly able to believe the epidemic of depravity which had been allowed to flourish in the UK and accusing Keir Starmer and other senior Labour figures of covering up the scandal, a coldly furious PM made a statement. Those who spread lies and misinformation, theyre not interested in the truth; theyre interested in themselves.

How dare he. How dare Labour accuse others of lies and disinformation when they are so desperate to avoid a national inquiry which risks getting to the truth. Lucy Powell inadvertently let the cat out of the bag.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Disgracefully, Downing Street has accepted her apology. Health Secretary Wes Streeting also defended Powell saying politicians sometimes say things in the heat of debate that come across badly... We all make mistakes.

It wasnt a mistake. It was an admission. A dismissive, degrading comment that belittled all the terrified girls who suffered multiple gang rapes while giving covering fire to their rapists. (Its only racists who bang on about grooming gangs, isnt it?) And Lucy Powell, a mother with a daughter of her own, put defending her partys indefensible policy above defending children from those devils.

Just listen to what Scarlett had to say, Lucy. They kept me in a flat for two days where they took turns with me. Is that a dog whistle? A blow on that little trumpet about the Pakistani brutes who tortured and raped because the English girl was not human to them? And thats the awful truth you dont want exposed.

Labour will not be able to postpone a national inquiry which will upset their Muslim client group forever: their obfuscation over the rape gangs has been infamous. In centuries to come, historians will still be writing about the monstrous injustice and cover-up.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Resign, Lucy Powell, resign if you have any shred of feeling for all those mothers daughters.

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.
NEW YORK  The official defense fund for Luigi Mangione soared past $1 million on Tuesday, which also happened to be his 27th birthday.

The fundraiser, which is still live on the platform GiveSendCo, has raked in more than $1.04 million, all of which will go toward covering expenses associated with the three pending criminal cases against Mangione in New York and Pennsylvania.

Organizers said the financial milestone marked a step forward in pursuing justice for Mr. Mangione, who is currently behind bars at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn for allegedly carrying out the assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thompson had been visiting the city from Minnesota for an investor conference sponsored by the insurance giant at The Residences by Hilton Club, where he was supposed to give a speech. Police said he was walking toward the venue the morning of Dec. 4 when he was ambushed by a masked gunman near West 54th Street and Sixth Avenue. He was pronounced dead a half hour later.

Mangione was arrested at a McDonalds in Altoona, Pennsylvania, after days of dodging law enforcement. Police said he had a silencer and 3D-printed gun on him at the time matching three shell casings found at the murder scene.

The ammo had been marked with the words delay, deny and depose  a reference to the insurance industrys tactics for delaying claims and maximizing profits.

In the months he has spent at MDC in Brooklyn, Mangione has been inundated with letters from supporters all around the world.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The massive pot of donations for his defense fund is made up of contributions from some 28,000 people, with a median offering of $20. Organizers said it shows how the fund has become one of the few uncensored public forums for people in America to share their grievances with our lethal for-profit health care system and the indefensible economic and political order that has imposed it upon us.

Mangione has pleaded not guilty to state and federal charges. Hes due back in court on Dec. 5, when his federal trial date will be set.

_____
An online legal defense fund for alleged CEO killer Luigi Mangione has surpassed $1 million as he prepares to return to court next month.

The fund reached the million-dollar mark on Tuesday, which coincided with Mangione's 27th birthday.

MORE: Luigi Mangione attorneys seek dismissal of state murder case

Mangione is being held without bail at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, where his legal team said he "receives anywhere from 10 to 115 letters per day."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg hasn't specifically addressed the defense fund, but he spoke out against the online support for Mangione in general in an interview with ABC News in December.

PHOTO: Luigi Mangione, accused of fatally shooting the UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York City and leading authorities on a five-day search is scheduled, appears in court for a hearing, Feb. 21, 2025, in New York. (Steven Hirsch/New York Post via AP)

"Celebrating murder is abhorrent," Bragg said at the time. "I sit across the table from families who've had a loved one killed. And to think of people celebrating that ... is beyond comprehension to me."

Mangione has pleaded not guilty to state and federal charges in connection with the assassination-style murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, who was gunned down outside a Midtown Manhattan hotel in December.

MORE: Luigi Mangione pleads not guilty to federal charges in CEO killing

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mangione is due back in court on June 26 for the state charges. Defense attorneys have asked to either dismiss or delay the state case in favor of the federal case.

If convicted of the federal charges, Mangione could be sentenced to death. Mangione is next due in federal court on Dec. 5.

Luigi Mangione's online defense fund surpasses $1 million originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has pardoned 42 people convicted of "extremist offences", state news agency BELTA reported on Wednesday.

Opponents of Lukashenko, who has been in office since 1994, are regularly accused of extremism-related offences which human rights activists say are trumped up to silence them.

BELTA did not give the names of those pardoned.

The Belarusian opposition in exile says that such prisoner releases are a ploy by Lukashenko to try to win sanctions relief from the West which has imposed restrictions on Minsk over its support for Russia and domestic political situation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, exiled since a 2020 presidential election her supporters say was stolen from her, says more than 1,200 political prisoners are still jailed in the former Soviet state, which rounded up all notable opponents of Lukashenko in a violent crackdown on protests after the 2020 vote.

Lukashenko, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, extended his 31-year rule in another election in January this year that Western countries called a sham. He denies Belarus holds political prisoners or that his re-election was the result of a flawed process.

Among those still jailed in Belarus are key leaders of the 2020 protests, including banker Viktor Babariko and opposition leader Maria Kalesnikava.

(Reporting by Reuters, Writing by Felix Light; editing by Andrew Osborn)
RALEIGH, N.C. (WBTW)  A Lumberton bank employee pleaded guilty to a nearly $80,000 fraud scheme and faces 35 years in prison, the Department of Justice said Wednesday.

Jillian Scott, 31, worked as a customer call representative for State Employees Credit Union and worked remotely on a bank-issued laptop, according to the DOJ. As an employee, she had access to both the personal identifying information and account information of the banks members.

Between November 2018 and June 2021, Scott used her position to access the bank accounts of more than 20 customers, the DOJ said. The customers were unaware that Scott had repeatedly accessed their accounts for reasons unrelated to their customer service call.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As part of the scheme, Scott used the personal identifying information from the customers accounts to create fraudulent PayPal and CashApp accounts in their names, the DOJ said. Scott then used these fraudulent PayPal and CashApp accounts to transfer money from the customers SECU accounts to bank accounts owned and controlled by her.

Scott also created fraudulent Bill Pay checks, which she used to move money from the customers accounts into her own, according to the DOJ. In total, Scott made nearly 700 fraudulent CashApp transactions, 120 fraudulent PayPal transactions, and 47 fraudulent Bill Pay transactions for a total loss of nearly $80,000.

Scott will be sentenced later this year and faces a maximum of 35 years in prison.

* * *

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.

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 WBTW.
DAMASCUS, May 7 (Xinhua) -- As Syria's new leadership ramps up diplomatic efforts with visits to world capitals, it finds itself simultaneously confronting a deepening sectarian crisis at home, posing a critical test of its capacity to govern a fractured country.

Interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa's arrived in Paris on Wednesday, marking his first official trip to a European nation since assuming office after the ouster of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.

According to Syria's state-run SANA news agency, al-Sharaa will discuss with French President Emmanuel Macron reconstruction efforts, cooperation in energy and aviation sectors, regional security challenges, and particularly the Israeli airstrikes that have increasingly targeted Syrian military installations.

This diplomatic outreach comes on the heels of foreign affairs chief Asaad al-Shibani's visit to the United States, where he raised Syria's new flag at the United Nations and engaged with senior U.S. officials. Both visits signal the new government's bid to break the international isolation Syria has endured, and to attract investment and support for the country's economic revival.

Yet, as Syria seeks international recognition and aid, its internal stability is unraveling under the weight of resurgent sectarian tensions, particularly involving the Druze minority in the southern region. The recent wave of violence in Jaramana, Ashrafiyat Sahnaya, and parts of Sweida has left over 100 dead, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a war monitor.

Clashes between local Druze fighters and pro-government forces erupted following the circulation of an audio recording, which was attributed to a member of the Druze community and contained remarks considered offensive to Islam.

The government has responded with a heavy security presence and negotiations with local leaders. While a ceasefire was brokered in Jaramana, tensions lasted longer in Ashrafiyat Sahnaya and Sweida, where calls for international intervention from Druze religious authorities have added a dangerous international dimension to the crisis.

Israel, which has a Druze population of its own, has warned it may take action to protect Druze communities in Syria, and has already launched multiple airstrikes on Syrian military targets in recent days.

The crisis has revived concerns about Syria's vulnerability to fragmentation.

Syrian political analyst Mohammad Nader al-Omari argues that the recent events reflect what he calls "explosive mines" that could unravel Syria's territorial unity.

"There are serious risks to national cohesion that cannot be ignored," al-Omari wrote on Facebook, warning against "external manipulation" and internal fragmentation.

Against this backdrop, Syria's National Building Movement has issued a statement urging an immediate halt to sectarian violence, the disarmament of local militias, and the launch of a comprehensive national dialogue.

The party called for the drafting of a transitional constitution, the formation of an inclusive government, and a judicial process for transitional justice.

"This moment requires political courage and a commitment to justice, participation, and equal citizenship," the statement read.

Observers warn that without inclusive governance and a credible national reconciliation process, Syria risks sliding back into chaos.

"There is no external solution to Syria's problems," al-Omari noted. "It must come from within, and it must begin with dialogue, accountability, and healing," he said. 
LYNN HAVEN, Fla. (WMBB)  The Lynn Haven Police Department is asking for the publics help identifying a suspect.

Authorities said this individual is suspected of committing a theft of merchandise from Walmart totaling approximately $600.00 on April 24, 2025.

If you have any information on the identity of this person or any information regarding this case, please contact the Lynn Haven Police Department at 850-265-4111 or CrimeStoppers at 850-785-TIPS.

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 mypanhandle.com.
French President Emmanuel Macron has said he is hoping for a revitalization of Franco-German relations after a new government took office in Berlin.

Turning to new Chancellor Friedrich Merz and addressing him as "dear Friedrich," the French president said at the Elysee Palace: "I am delighted that you have granted me the honour of beginning your mandate here in Paris."

"We want action to be systematically developed together," the French president said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We want to act together on the issues that we consider to be priorities: Sovereignty, security, competitiveness," Macron added, stressing that the most important responsibility for France and Germany was to maintain Europe's security.

Macron, who is said to have struggled to get along with Merz's social democratic precedessor Olaf Scholz, stressed that 62 years after the signing of the Elysee Treaty on Franco-German cooperation, the partnership should be given new impetus.

The French president said he and Merz agreed that European ambitions were only realistic if Berlin and Paris coordinated their economic and social reforms, adding the two sides were looking to work hand in hand on defence, energy, investment and space travel.
In late March, Dr. Peter Marks, the Food and Drug Administrations top vaccine official, was forced out of his job by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. In a resignation letter, Marks wrote that the Trump administrations willingness to undermine confidence in vaccines was irresponsible, detrimental to public health, and a clear danger to our nations health, safety, and security.

He added that Kennedy was only interested in subservient confirmation of his misinformation and lies about vaccine safety.

Seven weeks later, the FDA named Marks successor: Dr. Vinay Prasad, a hematologist and oncologist. That wouldnt necessarily be a notable development from a political perspective, except, as NBC News reported, the FDAs new vaccine chief has been accused of spreading misinformation about Covid vaccines and was an outspoken critic of the agencys decision to approve Covid shots in children. From the article:

He spent much of the pandemic criticizing the FDAs and the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions response to the virus. In a 2021 blog post and an accompanying video, Prasad suggested the national response to Covid might bring on the collapse of democracy, invoking the rise of Hitler and the Third Reich in Germany. On the blog that year, Prasad downplayed the anti-vaccine activism of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ... specifically his role in a 2019 measles outbreak in Samoa. On Bari Weiss contrarian website, The Free Press, Prasad seemed to defend Kennedys most controversial positions on vaccines, raw milk and fluoride by listing other countries that have policies that align with Kennedys views.

Whats more, the report noted that Prasad has been an outspoken critic of his predecessor, arguing in 2022 that Marks might be the worst FDA regulator in modern history after the approval of Covid boosters in children. Last year, he called on Marks to be fired ASAP.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Prasad didnt immediately respond to NBC News request for comment.

Complicating matters further is the public health team that Prasad is poised to join.

Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, the Trump-backed director of the National Institutes of Health, helped write the bizarre Great Barrington Declaration during the pandemic.

Dr. Martin Makary, the Trump-backed FDA chief, also has a problematic record related to vaccines.

Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, the Trump-backed nominee for surgeon general, has been a prominent voice on Fox News; she has little public health experience; and shes been critical of vaccine requirements.

These officials will, of course, work under RFK Jr., a longtime proponent of ridiculous conspiracy theories and bizarre scientific ideas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Trump administration will have a dramatic impact on many issues and areas of public life, but few are as likely to be as consequential as its effects on public health.

This post updates our related earlier coverage.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
For proponents of the Social Security system, Donald Trumps second term as president has been exceedingly difficult. As the Republican administration imposed significant personnel cuts and closed Social Security offices, The New York Times reported last month on the intensifying mess within the system.

The Washington Post reported a day earlier that retirees and disabled people are facing chronic website outages and other access problems. The Wall Street Journal added that people who show up at Social Security offices are confronting multi-hour waits.

It doesnt help that the administration is misusing the Social Security system in legally dubious ways; Elon Musk is slamming Social Security as a Ponzi scheme; and JD Vance is using his vice presidential platform to peddle discredited claims about the system.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump mightve promised voters that Social Security would go untouched if he returned to the White House, but its already clear that the Republican White House has destabilized the system to a degree without modern precedent.

It was against this backdrop that the GOP-led Senate confirmed a new commissioner of the Social Security Administration. NBC News reported:

The Senate has voted to confirm Frank Bisignano to be the commissioner of the Social Security Administration. Democrats have called Bisignano, a Wall Street veteran who is the chairman and CEO of the payment processing company Fiserv, Mr. Slash and Burn, as wide-sweeping DOGE cuts to the SSA have caused turmoil at the agency.

The final tally in the Senate was 53-47, falling neatly along party lines: Literally every Republican in the chamber voted to confirm Bisignano, and literally every Democratic senator voted against him.

His opponents had plenty to work with. In fact, as recently as February, in an interview with CNBC, Bisignano described himself as fundamentally a DOGE person, which were four words Democrats seized on throughout the confirmation process.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To be fair, Bisignano later took steps to distance himself from DOGE-imposed changes at the Social Security Administration, though as the Times reported, Democrats had reason to be skeptical.

That characterization was challenged at the hearing by Senator Ron Wyden, Democrat of Oregon, who produced a statement that he said was from a whistle-blower. Mr. Wyden, citing the letter, said that Mr. Bisignano had personally intervened to get key DOGE officials involved at the agency, including one who was approved in the middle of the night.

Republicans quickly shrugged off the allegations from Wyden and the unidentified whistleblower.

Shortly before the vote, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer described Bisignano as the last person Americans should entrust with their Social Security benefits.

The New York Democrat added, Today, Republicans have a choice: Vote against Bisignano and stop the attacks on Social Security, or vote yes and be complicit in the dismantling of Social Security. It should be a no-brainer. ... If Mr. Bisignano is confirmed, Senate Republicans will own all of the chaos he creates at the Social Security Administration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Soon after, 53 GOP senators, including those occasionally described as moderates, backed Bisignano anyway.

This post updates our related earlier coverage.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
In the abstract, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth seem like the kind of Cabinet officials whod get along. Theyre both middle-aged Republicans from the Midwest. Theyre both former Fox News personalities. Theyre both married to women who also used to work at Fox News. They were both confirmed to important jobs theyre unqualified to hold.

Two peas in a pod, right?

As it turns out, no. The headline in Politico read, Duffy vs. Hegseth: Friction over air safety erupts in Trumps Cabinet.

The months of worries about risks to safety at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport have turned into a public war of words involving the two former Fox News personalities who head President Donald Trumps Transportation and Defense departments  until DOT Secretary Sean Duffy began trying to patch up the rift late Tuesday afternoon.

The trouble appears to have begun in earnest on Monday night, following an incident in which a military helicopter caused two commercial flights to be diverted near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Fox News Laura Ingraham pressed Duffy on who was responsible, and the secretary replied, The FAA doesnt know, we asked the DOD.In an apparent rhetorical shot at Hegseth and his Pentagon team, Duffy added, The DOD has promised radical transparency, they should tell us who is qualified to take a helicopter out of the Pentagon. I dont know, but they have to tell us.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A day later, Duffy returned to Fox News and took a softer tone, but he nevertheless reiterated that the Defense Department hadnt provided him with the details he requested. The Hill reported:

When Fox News host Martha MacCallum asked if he had any additional information from the Pentagon about the flyover, Duffy said, I dont. MacCallum noted she didnt understand why the Pentagon hasnt gotten back to you on this yet. But we hope they sure do soon. So do I, Duffy replied.

Ouch.

One Defense Department insider told Politico that Cabinet secretaries traditionally communicate directly when theres an issue, but that in this new era of the Trump administration, they go on Fox News.Time will tell what becomes of this apparent conflict, but lets not lose sight of the bigger picture. This schism comes on the heels of Elon Musk and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent getting into a heated shouting match at the White House. Meanwhile, Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick have been at odds with White House trade adviser Peter Navarro; and Musk has also clashed with Navarro, Duffy, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

It led The Associated Press to report a couple of weeks ago, The infighting and backstabbing that plagued President Donald Trumps first term have returned as a threat to his second, with deepening fissures over trade, national security and questions of personal loyalty.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As weve discussed, throughout American history, there have been administrations with rival factions, but those divisions usually take time. On Team Trump, the cracks are bursting into view just three months after Inauguration Day.

In theory, a strong president could intervene, resolve differences, unite his or her own team, and establish a clear vision for his or her administration to follow. In practice, however, Trump appears content to play the role of President Bystander, watching these divisions get even worse.

Theres an old expression: A fish rots from the head down. I mention this because these kinds of failure of leadership have a tendency to spread  and amid reports of tumultuous infighting at other federal agencies, theres reason to believe its already spreading.

This post updates our related earlier coverage.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
In March, when Donald Trump took fresh steps to align his administration with Vladimir Putins regime in Russia, officials in Germany were not pleased. When the American president announced damaging international trade tariffs, officials in Germany again made their displeasure known.

For the third time in as many months, Berlin suddenly finds itself in another diplomatic dustup with the White House. Politico reported:

Germanys new conservative chancellor, Friedrich Merz, said he would urge Trump administration officials to stop meddling in German politics. I did not interfere in the American election campaign and take sides for one or the other, Merz told public broadcaster ZDF in a TV interview. I would like to encourage and exhort the American government to leave German domestic politics to Germany and to largely stay out of these partisan considerations.

Some background is probably in order.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Germany already has a major center-right political party called the Christian Democratic Union, which, on an ideological spectrum, is roughly in line with Britains Conservative Party. Germany also, however, has something called the Alternative for Germany party (in German, Alternative fur Deutschland, or AfD), which is much further to the right than Europes mainstream conservative parties.

AfD is so far out there that last year, Frances far-right National Rally party decided to stop working alongside the AfD because it was too extreme.

NBC News reported late last year that the party is monitored by the countrys domestic intelligence agency for suspected extremism; a party leader has twice been found guilty of purposefully employing Nazi rhetoric; a party candidate was forced to withdraw last year after he said that the SS, the Nazis main paramilitary force, were not all criminals.

It was against this backdrop that Elon Musk declared in December, Only the AfD can save Germany.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As it happens, the American presidents top campaign donor was not the only member of Team Trump to comment on the right-wing party. After Germanys domestic intelligence agency designated AfD as right-wing extremists, Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the move, calling it tyranny in disguise.

JD Vance added his voice soon after. The AfD is the most popular party in Germany, and by far the most representative of East Germany, the American vice president wrote online. Now the bureaucrats try to destroy it. The West tore down the Berlin Wall together. And it has been rebuilt  not by the Soviets or the Russians, but by the German establishment.

Ill leave it to the White House to explain why Rubio and Vance were so quick to rally behind one of the most right-wing political parties on the planet. Similarly, Ill put aside the obvious question of whether Rubio and Vance would be equally eager to intervene if a foreign intelligence agency were to apply a comparable label to a radical left-wing political party.

But for those wondering what prompted Merz to encourage Trump administration officials to leave German domestic politics to Germany and to largely stay out of these partisan considerations, this is why.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Shortly before Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney arrived at the White House, Donald Trump published an unambiguously hostile message to his social media platform, setting the stage for a meeting that couldve quickly descended into disaster.

Fortunately for everyone involved, that didnt happen. There were contentious moments: Carney told Trump that his country is not for sale, becoming the latest in a series of foreign leaders to rebuff the American president to his face; and there was a confusing moment when Trump appeared confused about the meaning of the word concession. But in general, the Republican was unexpectedly civil toward his Canadian counterpart.

Those fearing a replay of Trumps ugly Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy from February had reason to be relieved.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But one brief exchange did stand out for me.

The Republican president, apparently eager to explain why Canada should become an American state, said of the border between the two countries, When you get rid of that artificially drawn line  somebody drew that line many years ago with like with a ruler, just a straight line right across the top of the country  when you look at that beautiful formation, when its together  Im a very artistic person  but when I looked at that beaut, I said, Thats the way it was meant to be.

Not surprisingly, this did not prove persuasive, and Carney did not appear altogether pleased with the comment. What stood out for me, however, was the familiarity of Trumps rhetoric.

In January, for example, a couple of weeks before his second inaugural, Trump endorsed getting rid of that artificially drawn line between the United States and Canada. In mid-March, after hosting an infomercial on the White House South Lawn for his biggest campaign donor, the president again set aside some time to pontificate on the border separating the two countries, describing the dividing line as artificial.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A day later, as NBC News reported, Trump held an Oval Office event alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and again told reporters that he sees the border between the U.S. and Canada as an artificial line, adding, Somebody did it a long time ago, many, many decades ago, and [it] makes no sense. In late March, Trump again complained about that artificial line.

In each instance, including the Oval Office meeting with Carney, the president brought this up on his own. Its not as if reporters asked Trump to share his thoughts on the subject, prompting him to reflect. Rather, despite years of emphasis on the integrity of territorial boundaries, he just keeps blurting this out.

The question, of course, is why.

As weve discussed, for all intents and purposes, Trumps modern political career began when he came down a golden escalator nearly a decade ago. In the years that followed, he never expressed much interest in the dividing line between his country and our neighbors to the north.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He didnt talk about this at rallies; he didnt publish tweets about it; he didnt air ads about it; he didnt invest any energy into this during his entire first term; and he certainly never told voters in any of his three national races that hed make this a priority.

Whats more, its not as if theres a sizable group of voters who are demanding revisions to the 1908 border treaty.

And yet Trump keeps bringing this up, suggesting he considers the claim important.

I still have no idea who put this thought in his head, though its worth noting for context that there is another prominent international figure who routinely references an artificial line between his country and his neighbor: Vladimir Putin has used the same rhetoric in recent years to describe the border between Russia and Ukraine.

This post updates our related earlier coverage.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Its been a couple of months since Donald Trumps Veterans Affairs Department announced that its prepared to fire tens of thousands of workers as part of an agency-wide reorganization. Soon after, Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins tried to defend the move, arguing that the federal government does not exist to employ people.

It was a wildly unpersuasive defense: No one has ever argued that the federal government exists to employ people. Rather, the point has always been that those who work at agencies such as the VA are there to serve Americans who need assistance, and mass layoffs likely mean fewer services to those who can ill-afford the cuts.

The Cabinet secretary added, Well be making major changes, so get used to it. That didnt help, either: If youre an injured veteran worried about what Republicans have in store for the trimmed-down VA, getting used to fewer services and less care is a life-changing proposition.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Two months later, Collins had another opportunity to defend the administrations plans  this time during a congressional hearing. As NBC News reported, it did not go well.

In testy exchanges with multiple members of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs, Secretary Doug Collins said that his agency was looking into potentially cutting another 70,500 nonessential positions in a move that would make the agency more efficient. The departments history shows that adding more employees to the system doesnt automatically equal better results, said Collins, a Navy veteran and former U.S. representative, who was sworn in in February.

At face value, thats not necessarily a ridiculous argument, but it leads to an unavoidable follow-up question: What makes Collins and the Trump administration assume that fewer employees doing more work will lead to better results?

The secretary went on to say the planned mass firings will focus on those filling nonessential roles, such as interior designers and those who work in diversity, equity and inclusion.

But this, too, seems hard to accept at face value: Are we to believe that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs currently employees tens of thousands of designers and DEI workers? Because that seems unlikely.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Collins woeful appearance on Capitol Hill was more than just another example of a White House Cabinet secretary who appeared unprepared to defend the indefensible. The Washington Posts Dana Milbank attended the hearing and had a great column on this, noting that the secretary and his team have thrown the VA into absolute chaos.

The department announced that it was terminating 875 contracts  then announced that it was terminating the terminations. It fired 2,400 workers  then took 1,400 of them back as the dismissals are challenged in court. Across the country, notices have been taped to the doors of VA clinics announcing closures because of staff shortages. The department has ended clinical trials that provided treatments to veterans for cancers, traumatic brain injuries and other illnesses, ProPublica reported on Tuesday. The department even sacked people who worked on the veterans suicide prevention hotline, only to hire them back. And this is but a fraction of the destruction thats planned: Collins has announced a goal of eliminating 15 percent of VA staff  some 83,000 jobs  without any word about how he intends to go about it.

At multiple points during the hearing, Collins tried to argue that veterans need not be overly concerned, because the administration was unlikely to oust front-line health care workers.

But he also failed to inspire confidence, struggling to provide basic information that a VA secretary ought to know, while conceding that hes been forced to rehire some of the personnel he fired in haste. Given the degree to which Collins has already destabilized the VA, it seems hard to imagine many veterans feeling comforted by his testimony.

It led Milbank to conclude, What the Trump administration is doing to Veterans Affairs is, in short, a microcosm of what it has been doing to the overall federal government: sabotage without purpose.

This post updates our related earlier coverage.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Todays installment of campaign-related news items from across the country.

* It took roughly seven months and a federal court ruling, but Republican Jefferson Griffin finally conceded North Carolinas Supreme Court race to Democrat Allison Riggs.

* In Illinois, the Democratic U.S. Senate primary got a little more crowded Tuesday when Rep. Robin Kelly threw her hat into the ring, joining Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton in the partys field.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

* On a related note, hours after Kellys announcement, Democratic Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi launched a Senate campaign in Illinois, too, hoping to succeed retiring Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin.

* In case that werent enough Illinois-related news, Democratic Rep. Jan Schakowsky announced that she wont seek re-election next year, wrapping up a congressional career that spanned nearly three decades.

* Donald Trump endorsed Republican Rep. Mike Lawlers congressional re-election campaign, which wouldn't be especially notable except for the fact that the New York congressman is reportedly preparing to give up his seat and run for governor next year.

* Speaking of the Empire State, former Gov. Andrew Cuomo is running a Democratic mayoral campaign in New York City, though he announced this week that hes also running as an independent: If Cuomo loses the June primary, he says hell lead his new Fight and Deliver Party.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

* And in Cincinnatis mayor race, a Republican coffee shop owner named Cory Bowman advanced to the general election, where hes likely to lose to the citys incumbent Democratic mayor, Aftab Pureval. What made this a national news story, however, is the fact that Bowman is Vice President JD Vances half brother.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
If youve ever shopped for appliances  refrigerators, dishwashers, even computers  youve probably noticed the blue star on the box, letting consumers know that the product meets the governments energy efficiency standards. That label is part of the Energy Star program, and for more than three decades, it hasnt been controversial in the slightest.

Nevertheless, during Donald Trumps first term as president, the Republican White House unveiled a budget plan that eliminated the Energy Star program, for reasons the administration struggled to explain. The industry backlash was swift: Exactly eight years ago this week, The Associated Press reported that more than 1,000 U.S. companies, including some of the nations largest manufacturers, urged policymakers to preserve the program.

The APs report added at the time, The program costs about $50 million per year to administer, while saving consumers more than $34 billion per year in reduced energy costs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2017, the lobbying campaign succeeded, and the Energy Star program lived to see another day. Eight years later, as The New York Times reported, Trump and his EPA are apparently eager to finish the job:

The Environmental Protection Agency plans to eliminate Energy Star, the popular energy efficiency certification for dishwashers, refrigerators, dryers and other home appliances, according to agency documents and a recording of an internal meeting. E.P.A. managers announced during a staff meeting on Monday that divisions that oversee climate change and energy efficiency would be eliminated as part of an agency reorganization. That includes the E.P.A.s climate change office as well as the division that oversees Energy Star.

According to a recording obtained by the Times, Paul Gunning, the director of the EPAs Office of Atmospheric Protection, told employees, The Energy Star program and all the other climate work, outside of whats required by statute, is being de-prioritized and eliminated. (The reporting has not been independently verified by MSNBC or NBC News.)

An EPA spokeswoman did not confirm that the program was being eliminated. She told the Times that the EPA had announced organizational improvements to the personnel structure that will directly benefit the American people and better advance the agencys core mission.

Note, eight years ago, the Republican administration set out to zero out the Energy Star program through the budgetary process. In 2025, however, Team Trump is apparently taking a more direct and unilateral approach, overhauling the EPAs structure and scrapping the offices that oversee the project.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There is no constituency for such a move. Support for the Energy Star program has long been bipartisan  it was created under George H.W. Bushs presidency  and its one of only a handful of landmark energy policies that have been celebrated by environmentalists and industry advocates alike. It costs almost nothing to administer, and its delivered massive annual savings every year for decades.

The Times report added that Energy Star has helped households and businesses save more than $500 billion in energy costs and to get rebates and tax credits, according to the programs 2024 report. At the same time, it has also prevented four billion metric tons of greenhouse gases from being released into the atmosphere.

Even from a conservative perspective, this is precisely the kind of public-private partnership that the right has championed for many years. No one, in other words, would benefit from this kind of change.

So if the Times reporting is correct, why in the world is this happening? By all appearances, its because much of the modern Republican Party has embraced the idea that taking energy efficiency seriously is ridiculous. Weve seen overwhelming evidence of this among GOP lawmakers on Capitol Hill in recent years  see the Refrigerator Freedom Act, the Liberty in Laundry Act, the Stop Unaffordable Dishwasher Standards Act, the Clothes Dryers Reliability Act, et al.  and the same perspective has clearly been embraced at the White House.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There was a time when the so-called culture war focused on abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. In contemporary politics, however, energy efficiency has been added to the list.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
NEW DELHI, May 7 (Xinhua) -- At least three civilians were killed and several others injured Wednesday in skirmishes between the troops of India and Pakistan on the International Border (IB) and Line of Control (LoC) dividing Kashmir, officials said.

During the night of May 6, 2025, the Pakistan Army resorted to firing, including artillery shelling, from posts across the LoC and IB opposite Kashmir. Three innocent civilians lost their lives in indiscriminate firing and shelling, according to a statement issued by the Indian army to local media. "Indian army is responding in a proportionate manner."

Reports said the three civilians were killed in Poonch district, about 185 km southwest of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir.

Wednesday marks the 13th straight day of ceasefire violations on the LoC.

Early Wednesday, the Indian military targeted nine sites inside Pakistan and Pakistani-controlled Kashmir. 
MADISON COUNTY, Iowa  Madison County Auditor Teri Kaczinski, who has drawn scrutiny in recent months for repeatedly trying to hire her campaign manager through different channels, has resigned from her elected position.

Kaczinski made the announcement on her official Facebook page Tuesday afternoon. The move comes one day after her legal petition against the Board of Supervisors was dismissed in court.

In the written announcement, Kaczinski stated she would work through the end of the fiscal year with her resignation effective July 4, 2025, to allow time for the Board of Supervisors to appoint a replacement and for me to help ensure a responsible transitionsomething I was not afforded when I took office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She claimed the Auditors office was in disarray when she assumed it last Fall, and claimed her decision came after relentless online harassment, inaccurate and slanted media coverage, bureaucratic harassment by both the media and a small group of people.

WHO 13 reached out to Kaczinski numerous times- in person, over the phone, and through email- for months when alleged issues arose, but Kaczinski rarely ever responded to provide clarification.

In response to WHO 13s request for comment on her resignation announcement Tuesday, Kaczinski replied via email, I dont speak to the liberal media if you havent noticed by now.

You can read her resignation announcement in its entirety below:

In recent months, many residents voiced concerns over Kaczinskis lack of presence at county budget meetings and the hours she kept at the Auditors office. Several times WHO-13 went to her office inside the Winterset courthouse and found it was closed during working hours.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On April 2, citizens were told that Kaczinski was attending an Iowa State Elections Administrators Training (SEAT) in Fort Dodge. In response to public concern, WHO-13 reached out to the Iowa State Association of County Auditors (ISACA), which hosted the training. ISACA President Adam Wedmore confirmed Kaczinski was not present for the training.

Teri Kaczinski did not attend the SEAT training in Fort Dodge last week, however, Mikayla Simpson from her office did, Wedmore said via email.

Simpson is the Madison County Elections Deputy. Kaczinski, who had been copied on Wedmores response, emailed WHO 13 and explained that she had driven to Fort Dodge the morning of the training, but had to return home due to a family emergency. She declined to say what the emergency was. She provided a copy of a virtual gas receipt that appeared to be from April 2 in Fort Dodge. However, aside from the amount, the receipt did not contain charge information. It was unclear who purchased the gas, and if the receipt belonged to Kaczinski rather than Simpson. Kaczinski did not respond when questioned about that aspect.

In early April, Kaczinski filed a legal petition surrounding a Board of Supervisors resolution to hire Leslie Beck as a part-time Second Deputy within the Auditors office for $27 an hour. Beck was Kaczinskis campaign manager during her 2024 run for the Auditors office, and more recently organized a monetary fundraiser for Supervisor Chair Heather Stancil. The resolution came after multiple efforts by Kaczinski to employ Beck using county funds. Those efforts included twice as an employee of the Auditors office and a third time as an employee of a third-party consulting agency that was hired by Kaczinski in late January for $250 an hour.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Stancil abstained from the vote. Supervisor Jessica Hobbs voted in favor of it, and Supervisor Diane Fitch voted against it, stating she was worried about transparency and the process by which Becks hiring had been previously handled. The vote created tension during a public BOS meeting, with Kaczinski calling in on a public line and mentioning a potential lawsuit. The legal petition was filed days later.

I trust the Board of Supervisors will appoint a qualified replacement and ask that the community give that person a fair chance, said Kaczinski in her resignation letter. The office of Auditor is too important to be used as a political pawn.

According to Iowa code, a vacancy in an elected county office can either be filled by appointment for the duration of the term or through a special election if voters petition for it.

The next Madison County Board of Supervisors meeting with public comment will be Tuesday, May 13 at 6 p.m.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 who13.com.
ANDERSON  Construction on the new Madison County Jail in North Anderson is on schedule and within budget, the Madison County Commissioners learned Tuesday.

Consultant Eric Weflen, representing the county on the project, said the budgets hard and soft costs are as anticipated.

The total cost of the project to build a 525-bed facility in North Anderson is $105.5 million.

Weflen said the jail is expected to open in September 2026.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The commissioners previously reached an agreement with general contractor Garmong Construction for a guaranteed price of $97.5 million.

Weflen said 80% to 90% of the site work has been completed despite difficult weather conditions.

He said all the underground plumbing and electrical work has been completed and that the steel frame is being erected on the two portions of the jail that will house inmates.

Weflen said the jail staff has selected the paint colors for the facility and work is underway on the keys for the facility.

He said all the foundation work on the two portions of the jail for use as cell blocks would be completed this week.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The first pods containing the future jail cells should begin arriving by July from the manufacturer located in Georgia.

Its coming along quickly, Commissioner John Richwine said.

Richwine said the work to relocate a legal drain along the west and north edge of the property has not begun.

He said the commissioners continue to talk with the court system and officials with the Madison County Community Corrections Complex on possibly adding cell blocks to the facility.

That could add 200 beds to the project.

Its possible we can refinance the project, Richwine said.

The county issued $79.7 million in bonds for the project last year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The county is financing a portion of the projected debt for the new jail through the correctional local option income tax, which was expected to generate more than $6.2 million in 2024.

The Madison County Council approved using $7 million in American Rescue Plan funds for the project in November.

The site for the new jail is on Broadway behind several commercial businesses including the Wendys and Captain Ds and north of the Anderson roller arena.

The county purchased the property from Meijer at a cost of $795,000.
MADRID, N.Y. (WWTI)  A 48-year-old Madrid man is facing charges after an alleged domestic dispute on the night on Sunday, May 5.

Just before 11 p.m. Sunday, New York State Police responded to a report of a physical domestic dispute on School Street in the town of Madrid. An investigation revealed that Tomas Cruz had engaged in a verbal argument that escalated into a physical fight, during which he struck a victim.

Pair of NNY troopers honored by State Police

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A child, attempting to assist the victim, became involved in the altercation and was also struck by Cruz. The child managed to escape the situation and contact law enforcement.

Cruz fled the scene before the police arrived. He was subsequently located, arrested, and processed. He was arraigned in the Town of Madrid Court and was released on his own recognizance.

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.
A Minnesota woman who called a five-year-old Black child the n-word, and then repeated that racial slur multiple times in a viral video while defending her actions, has raised over $700,000 as she has become a cultural folk-hero to much of the American far-right.

The crowdfunding campaign for Shiloh Hendrix, which she initially posted after she shot to infamy over her confrontation with a Somali-American man in a playground, has taken off after the online right viewed it as a form of backlash over the funds raised in support of Karmelo Anthony.

Anthony, a Black high school student, has been charged with first-degree murder over the stabbing death of white teenager Austin Metcalf at a track meet in Texas. The case has drawn attention in conservative circles, especially after Anthonys legal defense raised over $500,000 on the crowdfunding app GiveSendGo.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Besides using the Hendrix incident as a way to exhibit their own form of vice signaling over the Anthony case, a large portion of the MAGA crowd has also seen their support of her as part of their fight against anti-white racism and the cancel culture mob.

Im glad she raised half a million dollars. I hope she raises half a million more, Daily Wire podcaster Matt Walsh tweeted this week, sharing a video that featured a 20-minute monologue on why he backs Hendrix.

MAGA provocateur Matt Walsh is calling for Shiloh Hendrix to receive another half-million dollars from her crowdfunding campaign. (Gage Skidmore/X)

In the video, which was filmed by 30-year-old Sharmake Omar in a Minnesota public park, Hendrix admits that she called a young Somali boy the n-word because he took my sons stuff. She then goes on to repeat the slur multiple times before seemingly justifying her actions during the filmed confrontation with Omar.

If that's what he's going to act like, Hendrix says when asked by Omar why she used the n-word to describe the child. Omar told NBC News that the child is on the autism spectrum and that the parents, whom he knows, have expressed support in filing charges against Hendrix, and a local chapter of the NAACP has raised more than $300,000 for the family since the video went viral. Local police, meanwhile, have said they completed an investigation of the incident.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I called the kid out for what he was, Hendrix wrote in her fundraising plea, adding that shes been doxxed. I am asking for your help to assist in protecting my family. I fear that we must relocate.

Like other viral-video incidents, a lot of the facts arent clear. The man who shot the video claimed the child Hendrix allegedly accosted is autistic. Some of Hendrixs supporters, meanwhile, have suggested the child is actually quite older, comparing the childs height with the height of some playground equipment, The Bulwarks Will Sommer wrote. They argue that the child is roughly 10, which apparently would be a far more defensible age to call the boy a racial slur.

Media critic Parker Molloy argued in her The Present Age newsletter that the right-wing wagon-circling around Hendrix was the most grotesque example I've seen recently of what some people call vice signaling  the conservative movement's twisted mirror image of virtue signaling, where people donate money specifically to show support for reprehensible behavior.

We saw similar dynamics with Kyle Rittenhouse, Daniel Penny and others who've become right-wing causes celebre, she added. The playbook is simple: do or say something awful, get rightfully called out for it, claim victimhood, and watch the money roll in from people who want to show their support for what you did while pretending it's about free speech or fighting cancel culture.

A number of prominent far-right personalities have voiced their support for Shiloh Hendrix, claiming that backing her fundraising campaign sends a message to those worried about anti-white racism. (X)

Some of the most notorious voices on the right, such as white supremacist and Donald Trump dinner guest Nick Fuentes, have explicitly invoked the Anthony fundraiser while voicing their support for Hendrix. Black people just raised $500,000 for a cold-blooded killer who stabbed a white teenager to death, he posted. So I dont want to hear ONE WORD about the Shiloh Hendrix fundraiser. Either everybody gets to be tribal or nobody does.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

MAGA podcaster Tim Pool said that while calling children racial slurs is crass and crude, the support for Hendrix shows white guilt is over. Shes making money, he added. This sends a message to other white people: Stop taking racial abuse.

While other social media provocateurs sounded off and said they backed Hendrix on principle to fight gay race communism, Walsh  the creative voice and star behind the hit right-wing documentary Am I Racist?  provided Hendrixs campaign a massive boost while delivering his audience a justification for supporting her.

The latest race-baiting story followed the cancel culture script right up until the twist ending. Shiloh Hendrix didnt apologize, Walsh wrote on Facebook, celebrating the amount of money she raised.

Yes, Shiloh said something offensive. No ones excusing it. But she didnt deserve to be treated like a domestic terrorist, he continued. And thats what her supporters understood. Thats why they gave. Because they werent just donating to a person  they were drawing a line in the sand. They saw the pitchforks coming out again and decided it was time to start swinging back.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In his podcast episode about Hendrix and the positive reaction shes received from the right, Walsh repeatedly said this was all about destroying the cancel culture mob once and for all. Yet, while repeatedly downplaying the racial slur she used, Walsh himself wouldnt actually bring himself to say the word out loud  and tried to explain his reasoning.

If Black people want white people to not say the word, then they need to not say it. If you say it, then everyone else can say it. Point blank, its that simple. Thats how life works. Deal with it, he exclaimed.

Its just a word. Its a vulgar word, Walsh added. Its a rude word. Its a word that Black people shouldnt say for the same reason they shouldnt use any other vulgarity. Im using n-word right now instead of using the actual word, for the same reason I would use f-word or c-word instead of those actual words.

Still, the rise of Hendrix as a MAGA folk hero has made some conservative pundits a bit uneasy. Former college swimmer turned anti-trans activist Riley Gaines, for instance, asked if the massive fundraising haul was a joke before noting that the right didnt need a white Karmelo Anthony. She also wondered whats the goal in rewarding Hendrix.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Others, such as The Babylon Bees Seth Dillon, expressed concern about the motivations behind many of those amplifying Walshs support for Hendrix. For them, it's not about the end of cancel culture, but the success of tribal whiteness that this case represents and which they're pretending Matt has endorsed, Dillon noted.

Much of the support for Shiloh Hendrix has revolved around conservative vice signaling over the legal defense funds raised by Texas stabbing suspect Karmelo Anthony, a Black teenager who has been charged with murdering a white 17-year-old at a track meet. (Frisco Police Department)

GiveSendGo, a so-called Christian platform that has become the go-to page for Trumpist rage, finally decided to step in after both the Anthony and Hendrix donation pages received a flood of offensive posts in recent days.

At GiveSendGo, we recently disabled comments on the fundraising campaigns for Karmelo Anthony and Shiloh Hendrix due to the unacceptable volume of racist and derogatory remarks, the platforms co-founder Jacob Wells tweeted on Friday. At the time comments were turned off, both campaigns had raised approximately $500,000 with around 15,000 donors each.

Stating that the comments posted dont represent values of hope, compassion, and fairness, he said that the company would allow both campaigns to collect funds and ensure they are delivered to the recipients.

We took action to stop the spread of divisive rhetoric while ensuring the campaigns continue to serve their intended purpose, he concluded. We call for respectful dialogue and understanding, even in challenging situations.
New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman on Tuesday said President Donald Trump may not have an endgame with his demands for Canada following his Oval Office meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.

Im not sure that its clear to him what kind of actual, specific outcome hes looking for, other than one where the U.S. can say were on top and somebody else is not, Haberman told CNNs Anderson Cooper.

The president  who has entertained annexing Canada and ignited a trade war with Americas northern neighbor  backed down on his 51st U.S. state talk during the meeting as Carney, who became prime minister in March, stressed that his country is not for sale and wont be for sale, ever.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Elsewhere in the meeting, Trump argued that there is nothing Carney could say that would convince him to dial down his tariffs on Canadian imports.

No, just the way it is, said Trump, who took to his Truth Social platform before the meeting to repeat his false claim that the U.S. was subsidizing Canada  the largest purchaser of American goods in 2024  by $200 billion a year.

The president also dismissed getting cars, steel, aluminum and various other things from Canada because we want to be able to do it ourself.

Haberman said the outcome of the Trump administrations trade negotiations with Canada and other trading partners will simply wind up being some kind of a framework of a deal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And Trump will say, We won. This is what I wanted, she claimed, adding that there wont be an actual trade deal as those take months and sometimes years to hammer out.

He will take some kind of off-ramps but I dont think that he knows exactly what he wants to see, other than a headline that says success.

H/T Mediaite

Related...
May 6Some of the hundreds of rural Mainers who bought their homes through a government loan program soon could be hit by what state housing advocates have called a "tsunami" of foreclosures, the origins of which remain unclear.

For decades, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Development office has offered low-income, first-time homebuyers all over the country a chance at homeownership through Section 502 loans.

The program is relatively common throughout the state, from Aroostook County to southern Maine, with more than 530 loans (totaling nearly $300 million in investments) issued since 2012.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A spokesperson for the USDA said the agency is currently tracking 400 foreclosures and more than 800 delinquencies for failure to keep up monthly payments, but did not answer follow-up questions about whether those foreclosures have already been filed in court and if other states are experiencing a similar wave.

So far, only a small fraction has recently appeared in U.S. District Court in Maine.

Federal court records show that 45 complaints were filed as of Tuesday. Most owe at least double what they borrowed, including the principal balance, interest and other fees.

One couple who bought a house in Gray in 2007 for $113,680 defaulted in 2016. They now owe more than $228,000, which grows by about $16 every day. Another woman who bought her home in Searsport in 1994 for $67,000 defaulted 17 years later. She now owes more than $200,000, an amount increasing by about $12 a day.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Housing advocates in Maine say the agency is notorious for its slow response to defaults, so they don't understand why so many foreclosure notices have suddenly been filed in quick succession. The USDA says it's because of a decision by the Biden administration not to lift a COVID-19 moratorium until the day before he left office.

Regardless of the reason, now that the USDA is acting, advocates worry what will happen to the hundreds of Mainers who could lose their homes in the midst of a statewide housing crisis.

"I don't find there to be any usefulness in figuring out whether these cases should have been filed sooner or later, earlier or not," said Jonathan Selkowitz, a lawyer with Pine Tree Legal Assistance, which provides free counsel to Mainers in need. "To me, the problem is that USDA's available options for homeowners to work out their delinquencies is very limited. And that's a huge hurdle for us as foreclosure prevention advocates."

DOUBLE-EDGED SWORD

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The 45 homes facing foreclosure in Maine are scattered throughout the state. Many of the homeowners are older  at least two have been widowed, according to obituaries  and it's not clear whether some of the owners are still alive.

Not everyone being foreclosed on still lives in the homes, according to court records, but many still appear to. A reporter's calls, emails and messages to many of the homeowners went unreturned or to phones that appeared to be disconnected.

The USDA won't accept new payments when a property has already been moved into default. Sometimes, borrowers will stay put and wait for something to happen. Other times, they'll leave, "assuming it's a foregone conclusion they don't have much time there," said Selkowitz.

"Only to come to learn that eight, 10 years have gone by and the USDA has not filed a foreclosure filing," he said. So that debt still grows, all while the property is vacant and potentially losing value that could otherwise cover what the USDA is owed in an auction.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Selkowitz described the Section 502 program as a "double-edged sword": On one hand, it makes housing easier to obtain for people who would struggle borrowing from other lenders  but when someone falls behind and the USDA finally responds, the department is far from forgiving.

"They offer access to homeownership to a group of people who can't get it otherwise, which is really important in a state like Maine that's experiencing a really devastating housing crisis, particularly in the rural parts," he said.

But the options when someone falls behind on their loan are actually much worse than if they had a typical bank mortgage, he added.

Selkowitz and other foreclosure experts who spoke with the Press Herald said the USDA has little flexibility built into these loans, partly because of rules set by Congress. Unlike private lenders, the USDA also has the power to seize tax refunds and Social Security benefits if they don't get back all their owed, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And if a person does lose their home, they will likely have a hard time finding a new place to live as Maine's housing crisis gets worse.

The median home sale price in Maine last year was almost $400,000. Several reports have found that the state's housing need is outpacing new construction, all while the state's rental options are few and highly competitive.

Marie Hogue, a foreclosure prevention counselor for the nonprofit Avesta Housing, said she has been advising dozens of homeowners facing default under this program to pay close attention to all legal notices and consult an attorney or counselor right away if foreclosure proceedings are filed.

"It's so unfortunate," said Hogue. "These loans, they were set up to help with the most favorable terms to achieve the dream of homeownership for young families and individuals with low incomes. It really helped them achieve those pathways, (but) the USDA doesn't offer programs to help resolve those hardships. ... It's putting homeowners in a very difficult position."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But many don't ask, said Jason Thomas, who oversees counselors at Coastal Enterprises Inc., a community development financial institution.

"What ends up happening is, in many of these long-term delinquencies, is that the homeowners stop asking," Thomas said. "They might never ask if there was some kind of assistance."

WHAT'S GOING ON

The USDA is seeking to recover more than $7.2 million in loans and interest in Maine so far  though that number continues to inch upward.

Selkowitz said he would be worried if the USDA can't recover what it's owed from selling the properties alone  it could mean borrowers still would have have to pay more to the USDA, and many of them don't have the money to do that.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hogue knows more filings are coming, calling this first wave the "start of a tsunami."

"This is going to continue, and we're going to see more and more homeowners who have a very long-standing default with their rural development loans," she said.

What remains a mystery, though, is exactly why all of these filings are being made now.

When the Press Herald reached out to the USDA for an explanation, the department blamed the Biden administration for stretching out temporary foreclosure moratoriums that Trump enacted during his first term in office during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Due to the Biden administration's inaction, there stands a large backlog of delinquent loans," the USDA said. "Given the sheer volume of loans, the new administration is still reviewing the loans to understand the magnitude of the problems it has inherited."

But lawyers and counselors following the issue in Maine don't think this is related to any particular change in administration or political ideology. They say they started hearing from people who received default notices as early as last fall, while Biden was still in office.

Hogue pointed to the age of some of these cases; most involved people who defaulted long before the pandemic, as far back as 2008. Only four cases were in default after 2020.

"I would have to look at case by case, but I don't think COVID is the factor," Hogue said. "I think it maybe delayed their filings, if this was on their agenda, so to speak? But it only added a few more years, if anything."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The USDA said the Section 502 loan program is struggling with delinquencies nationwide, but the department's spokesperson didn't have the data to share Friday about how many foreclosures or delinquencies the agency is tracking in total.

If this wave of filings is specific to Maine, Thomas questioned how much attention it will get during a hectic time in the federal government, especially for a few hundred cases in a small, rural state.

"For those homeowners, this is a huge deal. But everything else that's happening, I don't know how high on the list of priorities this is for advocates of many programs, or for the administration itself," he said.

------

IF YOU NEED HELP WITH A FORECLOSURE

Pine Tree Legal Assistance offers free legal help to Mainers with low incomes and can be reached at 207-942-8322 or ptla.org.

Legal Services for Maine Elders offers free legal help to older Mainers and can be reached at 800-750-5353 or mainelse.org.

Copy the Story Link
Residents in the Russian capital Moscow can expect internet problems up to and including Saturday, the Kremlin said on Wednesday.

There may be restrictions while state guests are in Moscow for the celebrations marking the victory over Nazi Germany 80 years ago, according to spokesman Dmitry Peskov

"These are restrictions on the functioning of the mobile internet - for understandable reasons," Peskov told Russian news agencies.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We have to take into account the dangerous neighbourhood we are in," he said.

Complaints about temporary mobile internet outages have been growing for days, especially in the capital.

Russia is celebrating the 80th anniversary of Victory Day on Friday with a military parade on Red Square.

In the run-up to the planned celebrations, Ukraine recently attacked numerous targets in Russia, according to Russian reports. Drone attacks have caused chaos at airports in the country.

Numerous state guests are expected to attend the parade in Moscow, including Chinese President Xi Jinping.

For the celebrations, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a three-day ceasefire in the Russian war against Ukraine. Kiev said the ceasefire was too short and has called for a 30-day truce.
BAMAKO (Reuters) -Mali has suspended political activities across the country ahead of a planned protest against the military junta that has ruled since coups in 2020 and 2021, authorities said on Wednesday.

The West African country's political parties are demanding a return to constitutional order and a presidential election, and they were expected to gather for a demonstration on Friday.

However, the junta said in a statement read on state TV on Wednesday that activities of political parties and other political organisations had been suspended until further notice to preserve public order.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last week, a national conference of political actors recommended naming junta leader Assimi Goita as president with a five-year mandate. The conference also recommended the dissolution of all political parties and the tightening of conditions for the creation of new parties.

In response to that announcement, a coalition of political parties held a demonstration on May 3, saying Malians were not represented in the conference. Parties were expected to gather again on Friday.

The junta originally committed to holding elections in February 2022, but that timeline has been pushed back several times.

In 2024, Mali formed a cooperation pact known as the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) with its neighbours in the impoverished Sahel region, Burkina Faso and Niger, after severing long-standing military ties with France and other Western powers.

(Reporting by Portia Crowe and Fadimata Kontao; Writing by Anait Miridzhanian; editing by Robbie Corey-Boulet, Mark Heinrich and Ros Russell)
RADICAL SOCIALIST

[May 7, 2025]

The Indian Armed Forces have launched Operation Sindoor which has carried out strikes in as many as nine places spread over three cities in Pakistan occupied Kashmir and Punjab province while a counter-strike by Pakistan, also to be condemned, has led to lives lost in Poonch. All this is an extremely worrisome development, though not entirely unexpected. After the Pahalgam terror act which deserves to be universally and unequivocally condemned, the Modi government should have made public and transparent the information it has as to who the likely perpetrators are and accepted the call for an international investigation in which Indian involvement would be necessary and central and demanded that the Pakistan government participate in uncovering the complete truth so that the culprits can be caught and punished in the name of justice. A Pakistani refusal to cooperate in this manner would have put it in the dock internationally and then justified various actions that could be taken diplomatically and materially by India against the government but not against the welfare of the general Pakistani public.

Indeed, the most sensible approach and the one most damaging to the Islamabad government is precisely to drive an ever greater wedge between the Pakistani public and a government that is already deeply unpopular. Instead, by illegally holding the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance and calling on all Pakistani citizens in the country (except non-Muslims with Long Term Visas) to immediately leave, this Hindutva government is pursuing the path of endorsing the collective economic suffering of the Pakistan public as well as endorsing the principle of the collective guilt of all Pakistani Muslim citizens. First, this only reinforces anti-India jingoism within Pakistan and enhances public support for the military establishment which rules and seeks to drown out all progressive and dissident voices within, thereby eroding efforts to move towards greater democratic freedoms desired by the vast majority of its citizens. Second, these two steps by New Delhi are also taken with the aim of domestically whipping up a hyper-nationalistic frenzy (also the purpose of the pan-national civic military drills) that can benefit the BJP for the coming Bihar elections and more generally beyond this. In carrying out these cross border assaults by its official Armed Forces, New Delhi has entered the terrain of committing internationally illegal acts of war. This is the second time after Balakot that this has happened. It sets the precedent for this to happen again and again, only at a progressively higher military level should similar such terror acts by groups (i.e., non-state actors) take place which is all too likely despite our hopes.

Also, since the dawn of the nuclear age in 1945 it is only in South Asia that two nuclear powers have assaulted each other with conventional military weaponry creating a frighteningly real possibility of escalatory retaliation that can reach the level of a nuclear exchange. There is a large proportion of people in India, and a very bellicose, communal and loud right-wing media, that have been baying for blood since the ghastly act in Pahalgam. This creates conditions for much stronger calls for war both externallywith Pakistan and internallyagainst the imagined enemy within, namely the Muslims in general, and Kashmiris in particular. Pahalgam has pushed almost all political parties to stand behind the BJP. Leading members of the Congress, not unexpectedly, have been urging military action. Regrettably, the statements issued by both the CPI and CPI(M), after the launch of Operation Sindoor, have refused to oppose such military action. A similar situation arose in 2019, when India escalated the stakes and struck targets within the borders of sovereign Pakistan. We were lucky that the situation did not then escalate out of control. But there is no guarantee now that Pakistan will act in a manner which might lead to a situation where both India and Pakistan can claim victory and then let matters rest. If that does not happen, and if we go down the path of war, this will only mean further loss of lives on both sides of the border, and intense suffering on the part of those people who want war the least.

Radical Socialist opposes these military strikes because such acts do not go to the heart of the underlying political crisis of Kashmir, which has been exacerbated by the Modi regime since 2019. We condemn fanning the flames of Islamophobia by large sections of the media and organized right-wing forces, and the culpability that the government has shown on that front. Such military exchanges apart from the loss of innocent lives (state terror by each side), strengthens religious and political hatreds in both India and Pakistan. We hope that ordinary workers and people in both countries will stand on the side of peace and a political resolution of the Kashmir conflict, instead of seeking military solutions.
HANOI, May 7 (Xinhua) -- National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines has adjusted its flight routes and operational plans for services between Vietnam and Europe following the temporary closure of Pakistani airspace, Vietnam News Agency reported on Wednesday.

Affected routes include flights connecting Vietnam's capital Hanoi and southern hub Ho Chi Minh City with major European cities such as Frankfurt, Paris and London.

The airline stated that the rerouting is a precautionary measure, underscoring its commitment to the absolute safety of passengers, crew and aircraft operations.

Further adjustments may be made pending regional developments, the airline said.

Meanwhile, budget carrier Vietjet, which operates the highest number of flights between Vietnam and India, has not yet announced any schedule or route changes.

Earlier Wednesday, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Pakistan issued a notification, restricting airspace access for 48 hours, considering the security situation in the country.

Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. 
MARIETTA, Ga.  Mahendra Patel, a 57-year-old Georgia man facing charges of attempted kidnapping at an Atlanta-area Walmart, has been released on bond after spending six weeks in jail.

A superior court judge of the Cobb County Judicial Circuit set the bond at $10,000 Tuesday morning. Patel was accused in March of ripping a 2-year-old away from his mother, 26-year-old Caroline Miller. He was charged with criminal attempt to commit kidnapping, assault and battery, according to court documents.

Miller told local television station WSB-TV Atlanta that she and Patel were tug of warring with the child. However, surveillance footage released in April contradicts Millers account, Patels attorney Ashleigh Merchant said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Patel told reporters outside the detention center that he was elated to be out of law enforcement custody.

Im a positive guy, so you got to take it one day at a time. Lot of ups and downs, Patel said. But I knew we had a team outside helping me. One day well see the light, and then we see today.

According to the arrest warrant, Millers 2-year-old had been sitting in her lap while they were in a shopping cart for people with disabilities. Patel had allegedly grabbed and pulled the child away from Miller. Miller was able to regain control of her child by wrestling him back from Patel, the warrant said.

This act placed the mother in fear for her and her childs safety, the warrant said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Surveillance footage of the interaction shows Patel speaking to Miller while shes in the scooter. Miller, who is not disabled, has said that her children enjoy riding in the scooter. At one point, the 2-year-old slips from Millers lap. Patel told law enforcement that he had asked Miller where Tylenol could be found, and attempted to help stabilize the toddler.

Mr. Patel offered to hold the baby while she got up to show him where the Tylenol was, Merchant said during the hearing. He believes fully that shes handicapped and shes got two young children.

Patel appears to have a second interaction with Miller, during which he shows her the bottle of Tylenol that he had found.

Mr. Patel went, got the Tylenol, and the video couldnt be clearer, Merchant said during the hearing. Mr. Patel did not try to kidnap this child.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Since Patels arrest, hes drawn support from across the internet. A petition for his release has gotten more than 47,200 signatures as of Tuesday.

Patel is still fighting the case but, for now, he said he is excited to have a home cooked meal. A trial date has not yet been scheduled.

Im picky about food, but I told my daughter and wife, I said, I dont care. Better than what I got over there.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
JOHNSTOWN, Pa.  An Upper Yoder Township man is accused of fabricating a story about home damage to police and an insurance company for a $16,000 claim in 2024.

Insurance fraud investigators for the State Attorneys Office said Peter Charles OHara- Diaz, 54, filed reports with Upper Yoder Township police and Farmers Mutual Fire Insurance Co. alleging that a sport utility vehicle struck his retaining wall and damaged his homes foundation Nov. 12.

OHara-Diaz claimed the damage caused water to infiltrate his basement, police said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigators said OHara-Diaz spoke to different parties, including claims adjusters, Upper Yoder Township police Officer Nicholas Zakucia and a state Attorney Generals Office agent.

OHara-Diaz gave them differing details at times, including whether or not he saw a vehicle strike his Sell Street property, Attorney Generals Office Special Agent Brad Klock said in a criminal complaint.

One adjuster photographed the basement damage while speaking to OHara-Diaz  but later determined the damage was old and pre-dated OHara- Diazs purchase of the property.

During the final inspection phase of claim review, a consultant examined photos from a 2023 real estate listing that showed water infiltration issues already existed in the basement, Klock wrote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Insurance investigators determined there was no indication a vehicle struck the structure.

OHara-Diaz faces felony charges of insurance fraud and attempted theft by deception.

He was separately charged earlier this year with terroristic threats, accused of threatening staff at Alternative Community Resource Program by phone in February.

At the time, law enforcement officials said he was wanted on a warrant related to sex crimes in Rhode Island.

OHara-Diaz is lodged in Cambria County Prison in Ebensburg after failing to post 10% of his $60,000 bond, online court documents show.

A preliminary hearing date on the fraud is currently set for May 14.
A man who pleaded guilty to murder in 1970 will be released from state prison more than five decades after the crime  but his release wont mark the end of his detainment.

The man, Glenn Moniz, will be released to federal custody. He faces a federal sentence for escaping prison on furlough in the 1970s and living under a pseudonym in Florida for a decade before being captured again. Moniz will serve 18 months in federal prison on the charge of escaping custody following his release from state prison.

At one point while in custody, Moniz sued several officials at Massachusetts Correctional Institution Norfolk, where he is serving his prison sentence. A federal judge dismissed the suit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On April 6, 1970, Moniz pleaded guilty to a single count of second degree murder for killing Walter Cavanaugh. About a month earlier, on March 1, 1970, Moniz and an accomplice, John Hoffmaster, shot and killed Cavanaugh, then 29, inside a room at the Huntington Hotel in Boston.

Moniz and Hoffmaster rented a room at the hotel on Feb. 27, 1970. On March 1, Hoffmaster and Cavanaugh were seen entering the hotel and going directly to the room. The next day, Cavanaughs body was found inside the hotel room. He had been shot at least seven times.

Just days after the murder, Moniz and Hoffmaster were arrested for a bank robbery. At the time, Moniz was wearing Cavanaughs jacket and Hoffmaster was found with ammunition matching the type used to kill Cavanaugh.

In 1976, Moniz escaped custody on the underlying charge of robbery, for which he had received a 12-year sentence. He was found in Florida 10 years later.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Five years before the Cavanaugh murder, when he was 16, Moniz killed his mother, the parole board wrote in its decision. He was released after spending about four years in custody for that murder.

Now 76, Moniz had not appeared before the Parole Board for more than a decade before his hearing in January. In its decision, the board notes Monizs declining mobility and current medical conditions.

The board also considered testimony from a psychologist who determined Moniz was at a low risk of re-offending. A Suffolk County prosecutor opposed his release.

When Moniz completes his 18-month federal sentence for escaping custody, he will be released to Florida through an interstate compact. He must also undergo counseling for childhood trauma, transition and substance abuse issues.

The latest from MassLive

Read the original article on MassLive.
37-year-old Gordon Pierce III was arrested after police alleged that he stole an 800-lbs historic cannon to pay off a $20,000 drug debt

Pierce, who allegedly admitted to using meth, said that he was threatened by his drug dealer after a 1-lb bag of drugs was stolen from him, according to an arrest affidavit examined by media

The cannon was described as a "priceless fixture" in the community and was over 100 years old

A man has been arrested on accusations of stealing an 800-lbs cannon to pay off a drug debt.

The cannon, described as a "priceless fixture" to the community, was reported missing on April 3. That day, a suspect was identified and arrested, according to a report shared on the Wichita Police Department's Facebook.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While it was recovered, the cannon was described as being "significantly damaged."

According to an arrest affidavit examined by Kake News and KSNW, the man was identified as 37-year-old Gordon Pierce III. The outlets reported that he allegedly admitted to stealing the cannon from a local park in Wichita, Kan.

Police reported that the cannon was gifted to the town in 1990. It dates back to the Spanish-American War, according to KNSW.

Pierce reportedly claimed that he stole the cannon out of fear that his life was in danger. He said that he was worried he would be killed by his drug dealer if he didnt pay off a $20,000 debt that he accrued after a 1-lb bag of meth was stolen from him, according to KSNW.

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.

Spanish-American War Memorial Wichita in Sedgwick County

Per the outlet, Pierce, who allegedly admitted to using meth for 20 years, said that his dealer reportedly didnt believe his story and threatened that he would he would shoot him and his family."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He allegedly turned to theft to pay the debt and initially wanted to steal copper statues. His plans allegedly changed when he found the cannon in Central Riverside Park.

KNSW reported that Pierce enlisted the help of a homeless man around 4 a.m. on April 2. Together, they removed the cannon from its base. After getting it down, he sought out additional chains to pull the cannon from a friend.

The friend was freaking out about this, believing he was going to get in trouble, Pierce told police, per the outlet.

Getty Stock image of police car lights Stock image of police car lights

Pierce allegedly proceeded to cut the cannon into "four or five pieces," per the affidavit. He allegedly brought several pieces to his dealer as evidence that he was trying to repay his debt. However, police say Pierce told them that the dealer was unimpressed and worried that the cannon would "bring heat to his house."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Per KNSW, his friend reportedly directed the police to Pierce, and they arrested him. Kake News reported that Pierce had "a clear baggie of white crystal-like substance" on him at the time of arrest. He reportedly told officers that it was meth.

Pierce is being held on a bond of $200,000 at the Sedgwick County Jail and charges of "theft of property, aggravated criminal damage to property, and possession of drug paraphernalia." He will be arraigned in court on May 22, according to Fox News.

The cannon was a part of Wichitas Spanish-American War Memorial. Per the affidavit, the cannon is reportedly worth more than $100,000, and Pierce caused an estimated $10,000 in damage to its base.

"The arrest of the individual who committed this crime is a testament to the quick response of our patrol officers, the Property Crime Reduction Task Force officers, and investigators," a representative for the Wichita Police Department said in a statement shared with PEOPLE.



Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

PEOPLE contacted the Sedgwick County Sheriff and the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office for comment but did not hear back at the time of publication.

Read the original article on People
WASHINGTON COUNTY, Va. (WJHL)  A Bristol, Tennessee man turned himself in to authorities after a drive-by shooting in Abingdon, according to the Washington County Virginia Sheriffs Office.

A news release from the sheriffs office states deputies responded to a home on Drake Road in Abingdon around 1 a.m. on Wednesday after reports of gunfire.

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Crime Watch

Deputies spoke with witnesses who said shots had been fired from a dark-colored SUV after a confrontation earlier in the evening, the release states.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigators found a 9mm shell casing near the road and collected it as evidence.

During a follow-up investigation later in the day, a Washington County, Virginia deputy went to a Bristol, Tennessee home with the Sullivan County Sheriffs Offices help. A search at the home found a Dodge Durango that is believed to have been involved in the drive-by shooting, along with more reported evidence.

According to the sheriffs office, Logan Widner, 20, admitted to his involvement in the shooting.

Widner was charged with the following:

Reckless handling of a firearm

Shoot in a public place, not cause injury

Shooting of a firearm from a vehicle

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The sheriffs office stated that Widner turned himself in and was being held at the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail on a $2,500 bond as of 3 p.m.

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.
DUPLIN COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT)  A man was arrested by Lenoir County Sheriffs Office deputies after a vehicle chase started in Pink Hill and ended in Duplin County.

William Denmark, 37, a convicted felon out of Duplin County, was identified as the driver.

Law enforcement said he was driving while intoxicated, speeding and had a gun with an altered serial number.

Law enforcement said Denmark did not pull over and led them on the chase to his home on Mill Creek Road, where he was arrested.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

An investigation found Denmark had previous felony convictions for murder and kidnapping in West Virginia.

Denmark was charged with:

Felony possession of a firearm by a convicted felon

Felony possession of a firearm with an altered serial number

Felony fleeing to elude arrest

Misdemeanor carrying a concealed gun

Misdemeanor carrying a concealed weapon

Misdemeanor DWI

Denmark was jailed in the Lenoir County Jail under a $130,000 secured 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 WNCT.
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  An arrest was made after a brief police chase involving a stolen school bus on Wednesday, May 7.

Samuel Selders, Jr., 33, was charged with two counts of illegal possession of stolen things, one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and one count of flight from an officer.

The Iberville Parish Sheriffs Office (IPSO) said an East Baton Rouge Parish school bus was located in Iberville Parish when it was stolen.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Selders reportedly drove off as deputies approached around 6:15 a.m. A chase ensued on I-10 East and ended around 10 minutes later, IPSO said.

The West Baton Rouge Parish Sheriffs Office (WBRSO) assisted in the pursuit.

WBRSO confirmed deputies were able to stop the bus around mile marker 151, and the driver was taken into custody.

Selders, Jr., was initially booked as a fugitive in West Baton Rouge and released back to the Iberville Parish Sheriffs Office. He is now in the Iberville Parish Jail.

According to jail records, no bond has been set for Selders, Jr.

Baton Rouge man charged after shooting left 1 dead at home in Baker

Latest News

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 Louisiana First News.
Update at 2:15 p.m. on May 7

DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA)  The man arrested for his role in a Decatur shooting on Easter Sunday is facing three charges.

According to Decatur Police Sgt. Ben Massey, 21-year-old Lebran M. James was arrested on April 30 after he was released from a local hospital after suffering non-life-threatening gunshot wound injuries. He is facing the following charges:

Aggravated discharge of a firearm (Class X)

Aggravated unlawful use of a weapon (Class 4)

Felon possession of a firearm (Class 3)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

UPDATE: Urbana man accused of stabbing wife denied pretrial release

James was found on scene by Decatur Police at 1000 W Main Street after suffering gunshot wounds in an altercation on April 20. James opened fire on a man he recognized that was standing on the sidewalk, as well as at another person. Neither of those two people were shot as they fled the scene.

At some point during the altercation, James was shot, but police are still looking for the identity of the person who shot him. Officers were able to locate a handgun that was near the crime scene, and it has been sent off for testing. At this time, it is unknown who this weapon belongs to.

Semi-trailer destroyed by fire in Effingham overnight, no one hurt

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

James was hospitalized on Easter and upon his release ten days later, he was arrested by Decatur Police. He had an arraignment hearing on May 1 and his preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 14.

The Decatur Police Department is still looking for information on this incident, specifically on the unidentified second shooter involved. People with details on the situation are asked to contact Decatur Police at 217-424-2711.

DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA)  A man has been arrested in connection to one of the Easter Sunday shootings in Decatur.

Lebran M. James has been arrested and was booked into the Macon County Jail in connection to the shooting at 1000 W Main Street on April 20. One person was injured in this shooting which took place near the intersection of W Main Street and Oakland Avenue just before noon.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Decatur Fire Dept. battles suspicious fire at vacant home

According to the Decatur Police Department, a 21-year-old male was shot during this incident, but his injuries were non-life-threatening. WCIA reached out to Decatur Police for more information on this situation, and about the other Easter Sunday shooting, which took place that same afternoon on North Church Street. The Decatur Police Department did not immediately provide a response.

There is no further information at this 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 WCIA.com.
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  One person was taken into custody Wednesday after a brief standoff with San Diego police at a Clairemont home.

According to SDPD, officers were dispatched to the home in the 5500 block of Camber Street around 11:30 a.m., when they received a call from someone who said he had been held at knife point by another individual.

The victim was able to escape prior to reporting the incident, SDPD said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When officers arrived at the scene, the suspect was still in the home, prompting the standoff. However, after about 15 minutes, SDPD says the individual surrendered and was safely taken into custody.

No additional details about what led up to the incident were immediately available. However, police say he could face a charge of assault with a deadly weapon.

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.
Police in Costa Mesa continued their fight against organized retail theft rings by arresting a suspect who allegedly stole approximately $120,000 in designer merchandise.

The Costa Mesa Police Department posted on Facebook that an employee at a well-known retail chain called them to report that clothing, designer handbags and shoes were stolen from the stores shipping trailer. CMPDs Facebook post, published Wednesday morning, did not indicate the exact date of the theft.

Based on the initial investigation, it appeared the suspects were part of an organized retail theft crew, the department said. Detectives were able to identify the suspect vehicles and tied them to different homes throughout Southern California.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

2 dead in early morning wrong-way crash in Long Beach

The man connected to the Costa Mesa incident was located with stolen property in his possession and arrested, according to local police. Further arrests of theft ring members were made with the help of the California Highway Patrols Cargo Theft Team and the Los Angeles Police Department.

We appreciate our partners and this type of collaboration, which nets these thieves and gets them off the streets, CMPD said.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities uncover other thefts allegedly perpetrated by the crew.

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.
Smoke rises following an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City, on May 6, 2025. Gaza's health authorities said on Tuesday that 2,507 Palestinians had been killed and 6,711 wounded since the resumption of Israeli strikes, bringing the total death toll since the war began in October 2023 to 52,615, with 118,752 injured. (Photo by Mahmoud Zaki/Xinhua)

GAZA/JERUSALEM, May 6 (Xinhua) -- At least 17 Palestinians, including women and children, were killed on Tuesday when an Israeli airstrike hit a school sheltering displaced people east of the Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza, Palestinian Civil Defense said.

Photos from the scene showed the bodies of young girls among the dead. Civil Defense spokesperson Mahmoud Basal told Xinhua that rescue teams were still searching the rubble, with entire families feared trapped beneath the debris.

Eyewitnesses said the airstrike struck without any warnings, destroying parts of the school and sending panic through the displaced people inside. Victims' bodies were scattered by the force of the explosion, they said, as smoke rose from the site and residents screamed for help.

Khalil Al-Daqran, a spokesperson for Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in central Gaza, said most of the injured arriving at the facility were in critical condition. "The situation at the hospital is catastrophic," he said, warning that the death toll could rise as more victims remain under the rubble.

Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee confirmed the airstrike, saying Israeli forces had targeted a Hamas command and control compound in central Gaza. In a statement, he said the facility was being used by militants to plan attacks and store weapons.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), along with the Shin Bet intelligence agency, carried out the strike based on what Adraee described as "precise intelligence." He said the compound housed "a number of armed terrorists."

Israel resumed major military operations in Gaza on March 18, ending a ceasefire agreement brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States in January.

Gaza's health authorities said on Tuesday that 2,507 Palestinians had been killed and 6,711 wounded since the resumption of Israeli strikes, bringing the total death toll since the war began in October 2023 to 52,615, with 118,752 injured. 

Smoke rises following an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City, on May 6, 2025. Gaza's health authorities said on Tuesday that 2,507 Palestinians had been killed and 6,711 wounded since the resumption of Israeli strikes, bringing the total death toll since the war began in October 2023 to 52,615, with 118,752 injured. (Photo by Mahmoud Zaki/Xinhua)

Smoke rises following an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City, on May 6, 2025. Gaza's health authorities said on Tuesday that 2,507 Palestinians had been killed and 6,711 wounded since the resumption of Israeli strikes, bringing the total death toll since the war began in October 2023 to 52,615, with 118,752 injured. (Photo by Mahmoud Zaki/Xinhua)
The video above aired when the incident first happened, on April 29, 2025.

MILFORD, Conn. (WTNH)  Milford police say a local man was arrested after allegedly threatening to shoot officers during a 36-hour standoff last week.

Daniel Rodak was charged with first-degree threatening, interfering with an officer, and breach of peace.

Milford launches Mosquito Control Program

The charges stem from April 28, when officers were dispatched to a Pullman Drive home for a welfare check around 11:15 a.m. As officers tried to make contact with Rodak, they say he threatened to shoot them multiple times.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Police said the officers pulled back from the residence and set a perimeter. Subsequent negotiation efforts failed.

The next day, police said Rodak escalated his threats, saying he would also shoot police vehicles.

Arrest made in 2024 Gregory Perez murder in New Haven

After about 36 hours, police said Rodak surrendered.

He was taken into custody and held on a $250,000 court-set bond.

According to police, a search of his home found several weapons, ammunition, and a hand grenade, which the Connecticut State Bomb Squad secured.

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.
WARREN, Ohio (WKBN)  A man convicted of charges related to child sex abuse material in 2024 was back in the Trumbull County Jail, facing similar charges in a new case.

Read next: Ruling made on cause of missing Warren mans death

James Harper, 45, is facing 23 criminal charges, including pandering sexually oriented material involving a minor and illegal use of a minor in nudity oriented material. A Trumbull County grand jury returned an indictment in the case last month.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The indictment states that Harper had videos showing girls ages 2 to 8 who were nude or being shown during sexual assaults from December 2023 through March 2024.

Harper was arraigned Wednesday, and bond was set at $250,000 with a pretrial set for May 14, according to the Trumbull County Prosecutors Office.

In September 2024, Harper received an 18-month prison sentence after pleading guilty to two counts of disseminating matter harmful to juveniles and a pandering obscenity charge. He has been serving time in Southeastern Correctional Institution.

Prosecutors at the time had said child sex abuse material was downloaded to electronics belonging to Harper. The victims in the case, a boy and a girl, were both under the age of 14 when the crime occurred.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kristen Hephner and Nadine Grimley 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.
A 48-year-old man is in custody for allegedly ramming his vehicle into the gate of actress Jennifer Anistons mansion in Bel Air.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department, Jimmy Wayne Carwyle was arrested on Monday around 12:30 p.m. after a caller reported a burglary suspect who had driven through a gate in a neighborhood near Sunset Boulevard and Bellagio Road.

Several media outlets reported that the mansion belongs to the Friends and The Morning Show actress, and than Aniston was home at the time.



The motive behind the incident remains unclear.

Actress Jennifer Anistons home in Bel Air is seen here after a man was arrested for crashing through her front gates while she was home. May 2025. (Sky5)

You dont ram into anyones gate randomly, said Aviva Copaken, a local dog walker. (Celebrities) are very well-known. Theyre facing the public all of the time  they are definitely vulnerable to these attacks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Private security in the area detained the suspect until officers arrived. Carwyle was taken into custody without further incident.

He reportedly complained of pain after hitting the gate hard.

Carwyle was booked for felony vandalism and was being held without bail, according to court records.

KTLAs attempts to reach a representative for Aniston have not been successful.

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.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  A 75-year-old man is dead after a pursuit led to an officer-involved shooting on Tuesday, May 6, in Truth or Consequences, according to New Mexico State Police (NMSP).

NMSP says at around 12 p.m., a state officer conducted a traffic stop on a white pickup truck, which was being driven by Dennis Ritchie Jones, 75, of Las Cruces.

The officer ran the license plate of the truck and learned that Jones had an active arrest warrant for a probation violation out of Arizona for sexual assault, NMSP said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During the traffic stop, an altercation happened, and the officer fired at least one round from his pistol in Jones direction.

Jones remained in the vehicle and fled from the scene, and a pursuit ensued onto NM Highway 181, which is north of Truth or Consequences.

The officer ended up catching up to Jones during the pursuit, which stopped in the middle of High Winds Road.

The officer then gave commands to Jones, who fired at the officer, NMSP said.

The officer then returned fire, and after the exchange of gunfire, officers approached the vehicle and located Jones, who was unresponsive.

Jones was pronounced dead at the scene, and the officer was uninjured, NMSP said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The officer was placed on standard administrative leave, and his identity will not be released until the investigation is complete, NMSP said.

New Mexico State Police act solely as factfinders in their investigation and conduct an unbiased and impartial investigation. In officer-involved shootings, NMSP thoroughly documents the scene, collects evidence, and interviews officers, subjects, and witnesses. In turn, NMSP compiles facts as detailed as possible and forwards all reports to the appropriate district attorney for their review. The New Mexico State Police does not determine whether an officers actions were justified; this determination rests solely with the district attorneys office, NMSP 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 KTSM 9 News.
SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)  Police say a man previously charged for his involvement with a child rape investigation in Scranton now faces charges for alleged sexual contact with another victim.

According to the Scranton Police Department, 22-year-old Tara Glan is facing the following charges after an investigation from a cybertip discovered child sex abuse uploaded to Snapchat:

Involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a child

Unlawful contact with a minor  sexual offenses

Corruption of minors

Indecent assault person less than 13 years of age

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ignited explosive device found inside church rectory

In April, a search warrant was executed at Glans residence, and police say he admitted that he engaged in sexual contact with the victim on several occasions.

Detectives stated Glan had contact with the victim through the Ray of Hope Church, where Glan was the churchs van driver and previously ran a youth group, of which the victim was a member.

Police were told that the abuse started when the victim was 7 years old, which included sexual acts and Glan physically abusing them when the victim did something wrong, officers reported. Police say the victim stated that all incidents happened at the church in the childrens classroom.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Glan was first charged with filming a sex act and child pornography when he allegedly filmed 16-year-old Amir Bomjan raping a different minor once in the church and once at Glans residence, according court documents.

Bomjan faces the charges of rape of a child, indecent assault, and photographing videotaping, depicting sexual acts.

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.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A man faces several charges, including two counts of DUI resulting in death, following a double-fatal crash on Interstate 15 outside Las Vegas that killed two children, the 8 News Now Investigators have learned.

Nevada State Police took Steven Woods, 40, into custody Monday, records said. Woods also faces charges of reckless driving resulting in death, speeding, and failing to wear a seat belt.

The crash happened on the freeway around 3:30 p.m. Sunday near Bunkerville, police said. Multiple cars were involved.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Paramedics took five people to the hospital with injuries, police said at the time of the crash. Other details, including the identities of the children, remained unknown as of Tuesday. The Clark County coroners office had no update Tuesday.

A justice court judge set Woods bail Tuesday at $350,000, records said. The judge ordered him to wear a drug patch and avoid driving should he post bond.

Woods was due to appear in court again on Wednesday to enter a plea to his 16 charges.

Speaking after a court hearing Tuesday involving a second DUI-with-death case, Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson once again stressed the need for higher penalties across Nevada.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What were doing so far isnt working, Wolfson said. Were having too many of these cases almost every single day here in Las Vegas.

8 News Now Investigator David Charns can be reached at dcharns@8newsnow.com.

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.
A Seattle man received an alarming scam call this week where a caller sounded eerily similar to his sister.

I pick up and theres a very distressed-sounding woman on the other line, Will Erstad said. The voice sounded super familiar.

Another voice, a mans, claimed to be with Seattle Police, saying there had been a really bad accident.

Its tricky. They spike my emotions right off the bat... make me real scared. Its hard to do, Erstad said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The man asked for Erstads personal information, like an address, and thats when Erstad started to think something was up. He began asking the callers questions, which led to them hanging up.

Im pretty savvy about scam phone calls and I was even pretty close to giving away my personal information, Erstad said.

He thinks a few things led to that: First, the immediate sound of a person crying on the other side of the line, the immediate nature of someones health and safety at risk, and how similar the womans voice sounded  to his sister.

He says hes not sure if either of the voices were real or fake, making him suspicious at the possibility that at least one of them was Artificial Intelligence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Im aware of AI voice artificing and aware of number spoofing and things like that. It can get pretty advanced, Erstad said.

A simple web search can bring someone to AI voice generators, even voice cloners, similar to the Seattle crosswalks that were hacked, using the generated voice of Jeff Bezos.

It really worries me. How hard is it for someone to call [my sister] and get some voice samples from her? Erstad wonders. Stuff like that is very terrifying and the technology is advancing so fast you might not be able to tell very soon.

Seattle police are looking into scams similar to this. The King County Sheriffs Office offered the following advice about scam calls:
CHIPPEWA FALLS  A Chippewa Falls man convicted of shooting a gun outside an Eau Claire tavern in August 2020, and was wanted on an open warrant for more than a year, was sentenced Tuesday to serve three years in prison.

Travis W. Rosciszewski , 51, 912 Pearl St., fired 11 shots in the August 2020 incident, then skipped out on his sentencing in November 2023 after pleading no contest in Chippewa County Court to being a felon in possession of a firearm. As part of the plea agreement, charges of second-degree recklessly endangering safety and negligent handling of a weapon were read in and dismissed.

At the sentencing Tuesday, Judge Benjamin Lane ordered the prison sentence, along with five years of extended supervision. Rosciszewski also must pay $1,700 in restitution.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The public keeps getting impacted by your behaviors, Lane told Rosciszewski. Once guns are discharged, you cant pull that trigger back. You dont know where that bullet is going to go.

Chippewa County Assistant District Attorney Sheila Yohnk requested a five-year prison sentence, along with five years of extended supervision. Yohnk noted that Rosciszewski has now been convicted of 31 crimes, going back to 1993 and has been in prison five times and been on probation multiple times. He also refused to participate in a court-ordered pre-sentence investigation and has shown no remorse for his actions, Yohnk said.

He has little remorse or little accountability for his actions, Yohnk told Lane. Confinement here is necessary to protect the public. He has repeatedly committed crimes while on probation for other crimes.

Yohnk added: Weve tried the probation route; it didnt work.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Yohnk reiterated that this wasnt just one warning shot, it was 11 different rounds fired, and any stray bullet could have turned this case into a reckless homicide charge.

Defense attorney Ryan Koehler asked for probation with an imposed-and-stayed prison sentence, noting he has been incarcerated since November and has several months remaining on a conviction in a different case. Rosciszewski spoke, only to ask Lane for the deferred sentence.

While on probation, Rosciszewski cannot consume alcohol and not have any contact with the victim. Although Rosciszewski is already barred from possessing a gun, Lane reiterated that he also cannot have a firearm.

The shooting at the bar occurred at about 2:30 a.m. Aug. 8, 2020, outside Hobbsy and Me bar, 3620 Locust Lane, in a portion of Eau Claire located in Chippewa County.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the criminal complaint, two groups began arguing outside the tavern, when a man  identified as Rosciszewski  got a gun from his red pickup truck and fired a series of shots.

A female ride-share driver was sitting in her vehicle outside the tavern and observed the man pull out the gun. She said one shot struck the rear drivers side quarter panel of her car.

Both the bartender and bar owner observed the altercation as well. Officers found seven spent ammunition casings, and the bar employees found another four. The casings matched a Luger 9mm gun.

Police obtained video surveillance from outside the tavern and shared those images on the departments Facebook page. Officers later were able to identify a woman who was dating Rosciszewski, and she said he was the driver of the red pickup truck. However, she claimed she chose to walk home and didnt see anyone fire a weapon.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When officers interviewed Rosciszewski on the phone, he claimed he heard fireworks. He admitted he was not supposed to have a firearm. Rosciszewski refused to give a current address to officers, and refused to come in for an in-person meeting, so a warrant was issued for his arrest.

When Rosciszewski didnt show up for his November 2023 sentencing, Lane issued a warrant for his arrest. Court records show this was at least the third time Rosciszewski failed to attend court; warrants were issued for him in Sept. 2022 and in April 2023. Rosciszewski was finally apprehended in November 2024 and has been incarcerated in the Chippewa County Jail since.

Online court records show that Rosciszewski was convicted of theft of movable property in Eau Claire County Court in 1997 and was sentenced to eight years in prison. He has prior convictions for escape, burglary and receiving stolen property.

In February 2024, Rosciszewski also was charged in Chippewa County Court with criminal damage to property, disorderly conductdomestic abuse, bail jumping and misdemeanor theft. Rosciszewski entered a no-contest plea in that case in April, and will serve one year in jail, but was given credit for 114 days already served.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to that criminal complaint, a Lake Hallie woman told police she has been dating Rosciszewski. He came to her home unannounced on Jan. 25, 2024. They got into a verbal argument. She stated Rosciszewski picked up a cement block and smashed it into her windshield. He then threw a block through a drivers side window. She contacted police, and he fled on foot, taking her cell phone with him.

The officer observed the damage to the vehicle, which was estimated at $5,000.
BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) -- China's central bank will cut the reserve requirement ratio by 0.5 percentage points, providing about 1 trillion yuan (about 138.9 billion U.S. dollars) in long-term liquidity, said Pan Gongsheng, governor of the People's Bank of China, on Wednesday. 
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  A man was found guilty Tuesday of possessing more than 20 grams of fentanyl following a high-speed chase in Fairborn three years ago.

On May 6, a jury found Alan Dominguez-Oliva guilty of Possession of more than 20 grams of fentanyl (a first-degree felony charge) and Aggravated Possession of Drugs  Methamphetamine (a second-degree felony charge).

He now faces 19 years in prison following his latest conviction.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Greene County Prosecuting Attorney David D. Hayes announced the guilty verdicts before Judge Michael A. Buckwalter on Wednesday, May 7.

On May 18, 2022, Dominguez-Oliva was seen driving erratically on I-70 in his Illinois-registered vehicle.

An Ohio State Highway Patrolman tried to start a traffic stop, but Dominguez-Oliva ignored the lights and sirens, instead leading law enforcement on a high-speed chase for over 40 minutes.

Miamisburg man admits to $700K fraud targeting the elderly

Officials said Dominguez-Olivas speed peaked at over 100 mph. His actions durning the chase damaged multiple highway patrol cruisers. OSP and Fairborn officers used stop sticks to puncture his tires and prevent him from going any farther in Fairborn.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Officials said Dominguez-Oliva had to be forcibly extracted from the car and then lunged for a troopers service weapon while assaulting the arresting officers.

He was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Officials searched his vehicle and found a large amount of what was later confirmed to be fentanyl and meth.

Dominguez-Oliva has a previous conviction for Failure to Comply and Assault on a Police Officer this January. Officials said these convictions stemmed from the same incident as his drug possession charges.

Centerville seniors honored with Washington Twp. scholarship awards

Greene County Judge Michael Buckwalter gave him the maximum sentence of four and a half years for the earlier convictions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dominguez-Oliva put numerous lives in danger in order to prevent the discovery of his drugs. These include the lives of several brave officers from the Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Fairborn Police Department, said Hayes. It is important that the public understands just how much these officers risk every day. Dominguez-Oliva cared more about his drugs and his own skin than he cared about the public and these cops.

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.
CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY)  A Clarksburg man will serve a quarter-century in prison after being found guilty of bringing nearly two kilograms of meth to the area.

Kevin Cayemitte

According to court documents, investigators received a tip that Kevin Cayemitte, 36, of Clarksburg, was selling methamphetamine from multiple locations across Harrison and Lewis counties. Investigators said they recovered a package mailed from Los Angeles to Caymittes campsite, which contained nearly 2,000 grams of meth.

West Virginia man found with nearly 1500 child porn images, troopers say

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigators conducted subsequent searches of properties used by Cayemitte which yielded more meth as well as firearms. Cayemitte will serve four years of supervised release following his sentence.

Cayemitte has prior drug convictions and was previously accused of disarming a victim and stealing their car in Clarksburg.

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 WBOY.com.
Police say they have yet to make an arrest as they continue their investigation into a shooting in St. Johnsbury.

Vermont State Police say the victim of the shooting is Adam Belliveau, 30, of St. Johnsbury.

Police said they found the victim at a Concord Avenue residence shortly after 2:15 Tuesday after receiving a 911 call.

Belliveau remains hospitalized for treatment, but police did not provide information on his condition or the extent of his injuries.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Detectives ask that anyone who might have information call the Vermont State Police in St. Johnsbury at 802-748-3111. Tips also may be submitted anonymously online at https://vsp.vermont.gov/tipsubmit.

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 ABC22 & FOX44.
CLARIDON TOWNSHIP, Ohio (WJW)  A man died after a Wednesday morning crash at a Geauga County intersection that local officials said has been the site of multiple injury accidents.

The crash involving a dump truck and a Hyundai Elantra took place at about 8:30 a.m. at the intersection of Chardon-Windsor Road and state Route 608, according to Lt. Timothy Grimm with the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

ODOT workers protective device hit in I-90 crash

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Following an investigation, the patrol learned the driver of the Elantra did not stop at the stop sign and was subsequently hit by the truck. Both vehicles went off the road into a ditch.

The driver of the truck was declared dead on scene, according to OSHP. The driver was identified as 67-year-old Jeff Hazen of Chardon.

WJW photo

The driver of the Elantra, a 66-year-old woman from Rome, Ohio, was injured and was transported to a Geauga County hospital, according to Grimm. She may need to be moved to a Cleveland hospital for more treatment.

Local schools delay due to fog

Officials said they do not believe the crash was due to fog.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We just have to remind motorists to pay attention to traffic signs, check both directions and make sure intersections are clear before they proceed, Grimm told FOX 8 News.

The Chardon Fire Department said its working with Claridon Township trustees, the Ohio Department of Transportation and the Geauga County of Engineers Office on a plan for changes at this intersection. An investigation is ongoing.

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.
A Kennewick killer continued to claim that he was defending himself when he shot a 65-year-old grandfather inside an apartment.

But Judge Jackie Shea Brown said she didnt believe Anthony Spearman, 42, feared for his life when he killed Leonard Slack in August 2021, and sentenced him to 34 years in prison.

From a standpoint of what the factual information was, the self-defense claim was not credible, Shea Brown said during a Tuesday hearing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A jury found Spearman killed Slack in what prosecutors said was a robbery turned murder. He was convicted of second-degree murder and illegally possessing a firearm following an eight-day trial in March. They also found that he used a gun as part of the crime.

The verdict brought an end to about two years of delays that included mental health evaluations and a mistrial. All of this came after Spearman had initially pleaded guilty to manslaughter and faced a 17-year sentence.

Spearman has been in and out of trouble with the law since 1997, Deputy Prosecutor Taylor Anderson said. He faced between 30 and 38 years in prison, which included a mandatory five years in prison for using a gun in the crime.

Two of Slacks daughters asked for the maximum possible sentence for the killer, who they said refused to take any responsibility for his actions. They expressed frustration that he would start to plead guilty, only to have the hearing canceled because he seemed mentally ill.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You dont deserve to walk free and you dont deserve any more chances, one of Slacks daughters said. As a matter of fact, you had been out of prison for precisely a year before you shot and killed my dad.

Anderson asked for the 34-year sentence. She said there was no evidence showing that Spearman acted in self-defense.

The defendant went to the victims house that night and took advantage of his caring nature; the fact that he would regularly help people who were struggling with active addiction, who were homeless. Anderson said. The defendant took advantage of that and tried to rob him.

Spearman and his defense attorney, Nicholas Blount, argued that he was pushed into a spot where he had to defend himself.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Blount asked for an about 25-year prison sentence, pointing out that his client took the stand to say what happened in the Hood Avenue apartment. He said Spearman is the only person who would know what occurred.

He said Spearman was scared for his life that night.

I was under great distress, Spearman told the judge. To me, it was self-defense.

Botched robbery

Slack lived alone in a second-floor apartment on the 3500 block of Hood Avenue. His daughter told prosecutors that it was getting hard for him to make his way up and down the stairs without breathing heavily, Deputy Prosecutor Kristin McRoberts said during opening statements.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While Slack had struggled with drug use at different points in his life, he was a loved member of their family who still had a job.

Court documents show that Spearman had his own history with drug use.

About an hour and a half before the shooting, Spearman sent messages through social media that he was looking to get a gun so he could commit a robbery, McRoberts told jurors.

While its not clear how he got a firearm, police believe he went to Slacks home looking to rob him, the prosecutor said. Prosecutors say the men knew each other.

Slacks neighbor called 911 about the fight and the gunshot.

When officers arrived, they found Slacks couch tipped over, a table flipped, a revolver under Slack and a machete nearby.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Slack was shot twice with the revolver and told people before he died that Spearman was trying to rob him, McRoberts said.

A later search found a pill that appeared to be fentanyl and a white powdery substance, she told the jurors.

After the shooting, Spearman sent social media messages asking for cash because he screwed up and needed to get out of town. Police found and arrested him two days later at the Thunderbird Motel in Pasco.

Spearman told police about going to the apartment that night and said things got uncomfortable, McRoberts said.

He made some vague statements about Mr. Slack coming at him with a machete and he had a gun ... , McRoberts said. He said Mr. Slack tried to hit him with the machete.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Spearman also told officers that Slack was some kind of sexual predator. He told officers that he really wanted to tell the police what happened, but he was going to get information to prove what happened first before he turned himself in.

In a second statement to police, he claimed he didnt bring the gun to the apartment, but instead found it there when Slack threatened him.
TOKYO (AP)  A man with a knife slashed two passengers on a train stopping at a Tokyo subway station during the evening rush on Wednesday, and their injuries were not believed to be life-threatening, Japanese police and media reported.

The 43-year-old suspect was arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder, Tokyo's metropolitan police said. The suspects motives and other details were not immediately known.

The suspect slashed a man in his 20s in the head as he got on a subway car. A passenger in his 30s had his finger slashed while he and nearby passengers seized the attacker, Japan 's NHK television reported.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A witness told NHK he saw the suspect brandishing a knife inside the car, but he did not resist when he was seized by other passengers. As the witness returned to the platform, the first victim, bleeding and slumped to the floor, asked for an ambulance, NHK said.

Trains on the line were temporarily suspended for inspection of subway cars, operator Tokyo Metro Co. said.

Though Japan is known for its safety, there has been a growing number of random attacks in public places using knives or homemade explosives in recent years.
The antitoxin antibodies found in the blood of a Wisconsin manwho voluntarily let snakes bite him for alm0st 20 yearsis helping scientists create better antivenom drugs for snakebites.

By combing two of the antibodies found in Tim Friede with a venom-blocking drug, the biotech company Centivax developed full protection against 13 snake species and partial protection for a further six.

The team hopes to develop treatment for viper snake bites, and will soon begin testing this new antivenom in Australia on dogs brought in to clinics with snake bite injuries.

Snakes are one of the most fascinating animals on the planet. They can use their tongues to smell, they can hear despite their lack of external ears, and yes, they can be extremely deadly. Every year, snake bites cause between about 80,000 and 100,000 deaths worldwide, and leave around 300,000 others with disabilities. So its with good reason that an estimated one-third of adults worldwide experience ophidiophobiaa fear of snakes.

However, this prevalent fear isnt an issue for Tim Friede, who has spent two decades voluntarily letting hundreds of deadly venomous snakes bite him. And, like secret spies who slowly inoculate themselves to various poisons due to prolonged exposures, Friede is now effectively immune to a variety of lethal snakes, including black mambas, king cobras, and tiger snakes. Now, a new study details an antivenom developed from Friedes impressive antitoxin antibodies. The results of the study were published in the journal Cell .

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What was exciting about the donor was his once-in-a-lifetime unique immune history, lead author Jacob Glanville, whos also the CEO of the biotech company Centivax, said in a news release. Not only did he potentially create these broadly neutralizing antibodies, in this case, it could give rise to a broad-spectrum or universal antivenom.

Although a living nightmare for most, Friedewho is described as a self-taught venom expert and serves as the director of herpetology at Centivaxsaid that two decades of snake bites were, in the end, a scientific endeavor. Speaking to Science News, Friede said that his process is a methodical one. First, he milks snakes of their venom and injects it into his body, increasing the dosage over time. This allowed his body the time necessary to develop antitoxin antibodies that could fight off future snake bites, otherwise Friede wouldve died many times over. Then, once sufficiently immune, Friede had the snake bite him directly to test his immunity. This didnt always go according to plan, like the time when twin bites from an Egyptian cobra and a monocled cobra sent him to the hospital (and into a coma for four days).

It always burns and its always, always painful, Friede told Science News. Was it a mistake? Yes. Was it stupid? Yes.

But now, Friedes mistakes could benefit millions of future snakebite victims. By analyzing Friedes unique antitoxin antibodies, scientists developed an antivenom cocktail that can diminish the deadly effects of some of the worlds most dangerous snakes. Centivax created the cocktail by combining two of Friedes antibodies (called LNX-D09 and SNX-B03) with a toxin-blocking drug called varespladib. Once tested on mice, the antivenom drug protected the rodents completely from 13 snake species, and partially protected them from a further six.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The team will begin testing these new anitvenom treatments in Australia on dogs who are brought in for snake bite injuries, and hopes to provide similar treatment for viper bites as well.

Were turning the crank now, setting up reagents to go through this iterative process of saying whats the minimum sufficient cocktail to provide broad protection against venom from the viperids, Peter Kwong, a lead author of the study from Columbia University, said in a press statement.

Snakes still broadly inspire fear in most of us, but with the help of brave (and somewhat reckless) ophiophilists like Friede, maybe the world can one day begin to also love the amazing creatures attached to those menacing fangs.



You Might Also Like
WARREN, Ohio (WKBN)  An Austintown man pleaded guilty Wednesday in connection to an armed pizza shop robbery.

Read next: K-9 apprehends suspect after 100+mph chase: Report

Shane Adams, 34, pleaded guilty to first-degree aggravated robbery with a firearm specification, according to the Trumbull County Prosecutors Office.

Adams was arrested following the January armed robbery at the Papa Johns pizza shop on Belmont Avenue in Liberty Township.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Adams was arrested with two other suspects who police believe were involved in the Liberty robbery and others in the area.

Police arrested the suspects in Youngstown after finding an SUV suspected of taking part in one of the robberies at the intersection of Powersdale and Cameron avenues.

Adams will be sentenced following a background check. He is also facing two counts of second-degree robbery charges in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court, connected to heists at gas stations in Austintown and Canfield on the same night as the Liberty Township robbery, according to prosecutors.

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 Dedham man who raped and killed a woman inside her Hyde Park home in 1991 was denied parole after his fourth appearance before the states Parole Board.

Gerald Craffey was convicted of second-degree murder in 1996 for the killing of Corinne Flynn. Craffey was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole on the murder charge, and a consecutive sentence of 15 to 20 years for aggravated rape.

He appeared before the Parole Board for the first time in 2010, and appeared most recently in January.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Aug. 27, 1991, members of Flynns family found her body in a second-floor bedroom she shared with her 8-year-old daughter in their Hyde Park home. Flynn, who had multiple sclerosis, had been raped and then stabbed to death, investigators determined.

That day, Craffery told Flynn his car broke down and asked to use her phone to call a tow company, The Boston Globe reported.

Flynns murder went unsolved for years until Craffey was identified as a suspect in September 1995 by the Boston Police Departments Cold Case unit, according to the boards decision. Investigators matched a sample of Craffeys blood to samples taken from Flynns body.

In a pair of interviews, Craffey admitted to the crime. He told police he was a drug addict and an alcoholic, and needed psychiatric help.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In its decision, the board wrote that Craffey would benefit from additional rehabilitation. The decision notes Craffey still appears to lack insight into his actions, despite serving decades in prison.

The board encourages Mr. Craffey to reflect on his accountability, engage in the Sex Offender Maintenance Program and address his mental health needs, the decision reads.

A Suffolk County prosecutor, three members of Flynns family and a retired Boston Police captain all testified in opposition to Craffeys parole. He will next be eligible for parole in four years.

More News

Read the original article on MassLive.
ADEN, Yemen, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations (UN) on Wednesday suspended all humanitarian flights to Yemen following Israeli airstrikes that rendered Sanaa International Airport inoperable, according to UN and Houthi officials.

A UN source in Sanaa told Xinhua on condition of anonymity that "an internal UN circular had ordered the immediate suspension of all humanitarian air transport operations in Yemen."

"Humanitarian flights to and from Aden International Airport in the country's southern part may tentatively resume on Thursday, pending necessary approvals from relevant authorities," the source said. "However, all flights to and from Sanaa airport will remain suspended until further notice."

The suspension comes following Tuesday's airstrikes by Israeli warplanes on Sanaa International Airport, which is controlled by the Houthi group. The attack has completely disabled the facility that serves as a critical lifeline for humanitarian operations in the war-torn Arab country.

In remarks to Houthi-run al-Masirah TV on Wednesday, the director general of the Sanaa airport, Khaled Al-Shaif, said: "All flights to and from the airport have been suspended until further notice after the airport was destroyed by the Israeli aggression airstrikes." 
ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo.  The St. Louis County Police Department (SLCPD) issued a missing persons report for a 33-year-old man.

According to authorities, Kajinaki Bujaga reportedly left his house on May 2, 2025, just after 10:30 a.m. SLCPD says the 33-year-old was headed off to work and has not been seen since.

The missing persons report said that Bujaga did not show up at any of his work shifts. His family told police that Kajinaki is known to answer his phone and messages.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bujaga is described as a Black male who is 53 and weighs 170 pounds. Other characteristics of Bujaga include black hair and brown eyes.

Kajinaki also drives a 2019 white Toyota Corolla with Missouri license plates saying JJ0-F8Z.

Anyone who has information surrounding Bujagas whereabouts is urged to contact 911 and SLCPD at 636-529-8210.

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.
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  A D.C. man was sentenced Wednesday for a 2024 shooting that injured a 5-year-old and her father, according to the United States Attorneys Office (USAO) for the District of Columbia.

Alante Partlow, 30, was sentenced to 13 years in prison and five years of supervised release.

The USAO states Partlow pled guilty in October 2024 to two counts of aggravated assault while armed and one count of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Father, 5-year-old child shot in Northeast DC

According to court records, on April 23, 2024, around 11:30 p.m., a 5-year-old and her father were walking out of an apartment building in the Fort Totten neighborhood after the man had previously argued with Partlow.

Court records say Partlow followed the two outside and fired at the man who tried to shield the child and was struck multiple times, with the child also sustaining injuries.

According to the USAO, the Metropolitan Police Department investigated the incident, and the case was part of the Make DC Safe and Beautiful Executive Order.

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 | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC)  A man connected to the killing of a man whose girlfriend was giving birth at the time of his death has been sentenced to 25 years, according to the Monroe County District Attorneys Office.

Herbert Montgomery and Christopher Austin were both at a gas station on North Street in Rochester on the night of July 26, 2024.

Rochester police responded to that location that night after reports of a disturbance inside the store. It was there where officers found Austin, 38, dead from a stab wound in his neck.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The worst thing I could ever imagine: Fatal stabbing victims girlfriend was giving birth to their child when he was killed

Investigators said Austin was inside the store when Montgomery approached him and started a verbal and physical altercation, which police said led to Montgomery stabbing Austin in the neck, leading to his death.

Montgomery then fled the scene, according to police, where he was located by officers within twelve hours, and he was arrested for the murder. Investigators note Montgomery was a twice-convicted felony offender and was on federal probation at the time of the murder.

Montgomery was previously convicted by a jury of murder in the second degree for Austins death.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At the time of Austins murder, his girlfriend, Jennifer, was giving birth to their son. Jennifer spoke with News 8 in July the day after both the murder and the birth  she called it the worst thing she could ever imagine.

I lost someone at the hands of someone else. You know, the night before my son was born and now, I have to raise a son who will never know his father, Jennifer, Austins girlfriend told News 8 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 RochesterFirst.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A man was sentenced to 25 years in prison after sexually assaulting a woman twice in the same night during a stay at her friends house in Washington County two years ago, authorities said.

Last month, a Washington County jury found Gerardo Cesar Depaz-Mayorga guilty of several charges related to the incident, including multiple counts of sex abuse.

Trouble is brewing for Wilsons Portland budget

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On June 10, 2023, the victim was sleeping over at a friends house when the defendant entered her room, took advantage of her inebriated state, and sexually assaulted her, the Washington County District Attorneys Office said in a press release. The victim was confused and disoriented during this attack. The defendant left the room only to return 20 minutes later to sexually assault her a second time. The victim tried to defend herself and stop the assault, but the defendant continued to force himself on her.

Depaz-Mayorga later called the victim and admitted to the sexual contact despite denying any wrongdoing to law enforcement in an interview during the investigation. However, the victim had recorded the conversation and provided the recording to law enforcement, officials said.

When Depaz-Mayorga was being sought by law enforcement with a warrant, he became aware of this and actively evaded arrest, officials said. He was eventually arrested after failing to turn himself in on two separate occasions.

Depaz-Mayorga was found guilty of first-degree unlawful sexual penetration, first-degree sodomy, two counts of first-degree sex abuse and two counts of second-degree sex abuse.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
WARREN, Ohio (WKBN)  An inmate who was incarcerated at a local prison was sentenced Wednesday for giving a correction officer a concussion.

Read next: K-9 apprehends suspect after 100+mph chase: Report

According to the Trumbull County Prosecutors Office, Steven Robinson, 20, was at Trumbull Correctional Institution in October 2024 when he assaulted a correction officer, causing that officer to suffer a concussion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Robinson was sentenced to three to four and a half years in prison, which will be served consecutively to a five and a half year sentence he is serving for assault, robbery and burglary out of Jefferson County, according to prosecutors.

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.
TOPEKA (KSNT)  A Shawnee County judge delivered a sentence Wednesday to a man who was found guilty of killing an 18-year-old at a local motel in 2022.

Andre C. J. Quinton Jr., 42, received his sentence on May 7 in association with the shooting death of 18-year-old Jahlel Brundidge in 2022. Quinton Jr. was sentenced to life in prison without parole until around 51 years have been served for his charges of murder in the first degree and murder in the second degree. He was also sentenced to around 12 years of time in prison for two other charges.

Andre C. J. Quinton Jr.s mugshot. He was sentenced this week for his part in the death of a Topeka 18-year-old in 2022 at a local motel. (Photo Courtesy/Shawnee County Department of Corrections)

Woman fires gun during Riley County road rage incident

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Officers with the Topeka Police Department (TPD) were called around 3 p.m. on Aug. 5, 2022 to the Travelers Inn at 3846 Southwest Topeka Boulevard on reports of a shooting. Police arriving at the scene found one person, later identified as Brundidge, suffering from a gunshot wound. He was declared dead at the scene.

The TPD arrested Quinton Jr. and another person, Cassie Holden, in connection to the killing. The pair were charged with murder in the wake of the deadly shooting. Holden was found not guilty of murder on Sept. 1, 2023.

Quinton Jr. pleaded not guilty to multiple charges in February 2023. A jury returned a guilty verdict following a trial on March 17, 2025.

Murder in the first degree.

Murder in the second degree.

Attempted aggravated robbery.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Quinton Jr. also pleaded guilty on Nov. 27, 2023 to a charge of criminal possession of a weapon.

18-year-old sentenced to life in prison for killing Topeka teen in 2023

For more crime 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.
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  D.C. police said a man is recovering in the hospital after he was shot during a carjacking in Northwest overnight.

The Metropolitan Police Department told DC News Now that the officers were called to the 1700 block of New Jersey Ave. minutes after 2 a.m. on Wednesday.

Once on the scene, they found a man, whose vehicle had been taken, suffering from a gunshot wound.

DC police search for suspect in fatal hit-and-run on U Street

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Medics took him to the hospital for treatment. Police noted that he was conscious and breathing.

Police said detectives are searching for a Red 2009 Honda with the temporary Maryland tag, T2125443.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call 202-727-9099 or text MPD at 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 | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
A Chicago man shot by an off-duty cop during a domestic disturbance in a Roseland home earlier this week faces a felony weapons charge, Chicago police announced Wednesday.

Police said Martese Hudson, 42, of the Roseland neighborhood, allegedly committed domestic battery against a 41-year-old woman before threatening her and the off-duty officer at gunpoint early Monday. Court records said Hudson is married to the victim, and that he pushed and choked her.

Hudson was charged with a felony count of aggravated unlawful possession of a weapon, two misdemeanor counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and one misdemeanor count of domestic battery, police said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Officers responded to a residence in the 10600 block of South La Salle Street for a call of a domestic disturbance about 3 a.m., police previously said. An off-duty officer in the basement heard the disturbance and went upstairs. The officer confronted and shot Hudson, police said.

Hudson was taken to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn in critical condition. He was arrested Monday at the hospital.

Hudson remained hospitalized Wednesday and didnt appear in court. Cook County Judge Lisette Catherine Mojica continued the case until Monday but ordered Hudson detained.
CHICAGO  A man shot by an off-duty Chicago police officer amid an alleged domestic battery early Monday morning has been charged.

Martese Hudson, 42, is facing a felony count of aggravated unlawful possession of a weapon with a previous conviction, two misdemeanor counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and a misdemeanor count of domestic battery.

Officers responded to a call of a domestic disturbance on the 10600 block of South LaSalle Street, located in Roseland, just after 3:05 a.m. Monday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

CPD believes an off-duty officer was in the basement of the residence when he was alerted of the disturbance. The officer went upstairs and a confrontation occurred after Hudson was allegedly threatening two people at gunpoint.

Previous: COPA investigating off-duty officer-involved shooting on South Side

Hes also accused of committing domestic battery against a 41-year-old woman.

Hudson was shot by the off-duty officer and was transported to Christ Hospital in critical condition.

He was placed into custody at the hospital. Hudsons first hearing is scheduled for Wednesday.

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.
An Army veteran shot dead in a road rage incident nearly four years ago appeared in an Arizona courtroom from beyond the grave to address his killer  all thanks to artificial intelligence.

An AI version of Christopher Pelkey appeared in an eerily realistic video to forgive his killer, Gabriel Paul Horcasitas, in what officials believe to be the first use of AI to deliver a victim impact statement, ABC 15 reported.

To Gabriel Horcasitas, the man who shot me, it is a shame we encountered each other that day in those circumstances, an AI-generated version of Pelkey says in the clip. In another life, we probably couldve been friends.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I believe in forgiveness, and a God who forgives. I always have, and I still do, he added.

The 37-year-old Army combat veterans family created the AI statement using a previously recorded video, a picture and a script written by the victims sister, Stacey Wales.

Christopher Pelkey was killed in a road rage shooting in 2021. He spoke at the sentencing for his own killer thanks to AI. (GoFundMe)

I said, I have to let him speak, and I wrote what he would have said, and I said, Thats pretty good, Id like to hear that if I was the judge, Wales told AZFamily.

The message was well-received by Judge Todd Lang, who told the courtroom, I love that AI. Thank you for that. I felt like that was genuine; that his obvious forgiveness of Mr. Horcasitas reflects the character I heard about today, Fox 10 reported.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Wales told ABC 15 that everyone who knew her brother agreed this capture was a true representation of the spirit and soul of how Chris would have thought about his own sentencing as a murder victim.

Pelkey was on his way home from a church softball game at the time of the road rage shooting, according to a GoFundMe set up by his family.

It was not immediately clear whether the victims family received special permission to play the video in court, or how it was decided an AI video was allowed. The Independent has reached out to the Judicial Branch in Maricopa County for comment.

While the state asked for a nine-and-a-half year sentence, the judge handed Horcasitas a 10-and-a-half year sentence after being so moved by the video, Pelkeys family said, noting the judge even referred to the video in his statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The AI victim statement was the first use of artificial intelligence in Arizona judicial history  and potentially the first for the nation, according to ABC 15.

As AI seeps into every aspect of society  including the judicial system  the U.S. Judicial Conference Advisory Committee said it would regulate the introduction of AI-generated evidence at trial to ensure such evidence would be subjected to the same reliability standards as expert witnesses, Reuters reported.

Arizona State professor of law Gary Marchant said the use of AI has become more common in courts.

If you look at the facts of this case, I would say that the value of it overweighed the prejudicial effect, but if you look at other cases, you could imagine where they would be very prejudicial, he told AZFamily.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Marchant, part of an Arizona Supreme Court committee evaluating AIs use in the court, says the system is trying to address the issues as proactively as possible.

The problem, of course, is there are so many different possibilities here, some of which are more acceptable than others. How you draw the line is going to be very difficult, but certainly the courts seem to be moving forward to try to deal with this, he added.
BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Eighty-six percent of respondents praised China's advancements in digital technology, according to a report released Wednesday by Renmin University of China (RUC) in Beijing.

The 2025 Global Public Digital Technology Perception Report, conducted by the university's Global Opinion Research Center, surveyed 7,599 participants from 38 countries through an international online sample pool.

The report covers five key areas, including improvements in daily life brought by digital technologies, expectations and concerns about artificial intelligence (AI), and growing recognition of China's digital tech in the Global South.

Regional analysis shows the highest approval rates for Chinese digital technology -- Africa at 94.3 percent, South America at 93 percent, Southeast Asia at 91.1 percent, South Asia and Central Asia at 90.7 percent, and the Middle East at 88.1 percent.

More than half the respondents consider AI and e-commerce as China's leading digital sectors, according to the report. E-commerce platforms like Temu and SHEIN have rapidly grown globally through competitive pricing and efficient supply chains.

Meanwhile, Chinese AI firms are advancing quickly with open, fast-paced development strategies. In regions such as Africa, Chinese AI is increasingly viewed as a driver of smart infrastructure and digital governance.

"Chinese tech companies are widely seen as leaders in digital innovation. Earlier this year, DeepSeek's R1 model delivered strong performance with minimal computing resources. Tencent's Hunyuan and Alibaba's Qwen large language models also ranked among top performers in benchmarks. Meanwhile, Alipay and WeChat Pay continue expanding globally, providing users with convenient payment solutions," said Zhang Di, professor at the School of Journalism and Communication, RUC.

The report also notes that 83.6 percent of the Global South respondents see Chinese digital technology as a positive force in their countries. Cooperation in technology, infrastructure, and talent development is strengthening, supporting both the internationalization of Chinese tech companies and digital growth in these countries.

Worldwide, attitudes toward innovation vary significantly between developing and developed nations, with 74.2 percent from developing countries closely following global tech trends, compared to just 50.5 percent in developed countries.

The survey indicates that 62.7 percent believe AI positively impacts work efficiency, while 64.9 percent see benefits for student learning. However, only 34.9 percent expressed optimism about AI's effects on employment opportunities. 
A pilot walked away uninjured after crash-landing his Ultralight plane in a field in north-central Minnesota.

It happened just before 8 p.m. Sunday in a field on the north side of Potato Lake in Arago Township, with the Hubbard County Sheriff's Office reporting that it was alerted to a possible airplane crash in the area.

"The caller reported that the pilot was not injured and was being transported to the Park Rapids airport by private vehicle," the sheriff's office said. "Deputies responded to the crash scene where they found a 1-seat ultra-lite style airplane in a field with extensive damage."

An ultra-lite plane following an emergency landing in Hubbard County.Hubbard County Sheriff's Office

At the airport, the 65-year-old Park Rapids man flying the plane said he was flying out of Park Rapids airport when engine troubles at 400-500 feet prompted him to take quick action.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"He realized that he would not be able to make it back to the airport and decided to try to make an emergency landing in a field," the sheriff's office said, noting that the pilot escaped the crash-landing without injury.

The FAA was alerted to the incident and decided further investigation wasn't necessary.
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  A man who reports said threatened to kill a city police and insulted the race of the officer and his children pleaded guilty Wednesday in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court to charges of intimidation and ethnic intimidation.

Read next: K-9 apprehends suspect after 100+mph chase: Report

In addition to those pleas, Peter Levitski, 31, of Youngstown, also pleaded guilty before Judge Maureen Sweeney to a third-degree felony charge of domestic violence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sentencing will take place following a presentence investigation.

The intimidation charge is a third-degree felony, and the ethnic intimidation charge is a fifth-degree felony.

The attorneys in the case are recommending a sentence of 18 months in prison. Levitski remains free on bond pending his sentencing.

Levitski was arrested for domestic violence Dec. 9  his third domestic violence of the year  after police were called about 10:20 p.m. for a report of a domestic disturbance.

After Levitski was placed in a cruiser and was being driven to the Mahoning County jail, reports said he called the officer who was driving, who is Black, a racial name and also called his children racial names.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Reports also said Levitski also threatened to kill the officer when he got out of jail.

Levitski was charged with felony domestic violence because he had three previous arrests for first-degree misdemeanor domestic violence. In 2023, he pleaded guilty in municipal court to a reduced charge of disorderly conduct and was sentenced to probation and counseling.

He was also arrested June 1 and June 18 by city police for domestic violence. He pleaded guilty Aug. 12 in both cases and was sentenced to 30 days in jail, placed on probation for a year and ordered to attend alcohol counseling three times a 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 WKBN.com.
McLENNAN COUNTY, Texas (FOX 44)  A man was rescued from his vehicle mere seconds before it was fully submerged by rising flood waters.

The McLennan County Sheriffs Office was dispatched to a water rescue at 323 Battle Lake Road at approximately 12:54 p.m. Tuesday. This was after a caller reported being trapped in his vehicle by rising flood waters across his private driveway.

The caller informed dispatchers that water was rapidly entering his vehicle and reached the seat level. The Sheriffs Office immediately broadcasted the emergency to local volunteer fire departments including Mart VFD, Hallsburg VFD, and Elk VFD. Additional responding agencies included the Mart Police Department, McLennan County Constable Precinct 1, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the Sheriffs Office, a Mart Police officer was the first to arrive at approximately 12:57 p.m. The officer found the vehicle approximately 100 yards off the roadway in a fast-moving creek. Initial rescue efforts were hindered by the strong current and the partially-submerged vehicle.

A TPWD game warden arrived on scene at approximately 1:04 p.m., followed shortly by two McLennan County Sheriffs deputies and several volunteer fire department personnel. Rescuers attempted to extract the man through the rear glass, but the opening was too small.

The Sheriffs Office says officers ultimately broke the drivers side window and successfully removed the individual just 15 seconds before the vehicle became fully submerged and was swept further into the creek by the rising waters.

The man was transported to a local hospital by ambulance for medical evaluation, and is reported to have sustained no major injuries.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Sheriffs Office extends sincere thanks to all responding agencies for their coordinated and courageous efforts in this life-threatening situation.

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 KWKT - FOX 44.
A man whose dismembered body was found in a suitcase had raped and blackmailed a teenager, a court heard.

The remains of Alberto Alfonso, 62, were found alongside those of Paul Longworth, 71, in a suitcase and trunk left near the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol in July last year.

Yostin Andres Mosquera, a 35-year-old porn star, is on trial at the Old Bailey accused of their murders, which he denies, although he admits to the manslaughter of Mr Alfonso.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Wednesday, a witness giving evidence under the pseudonym James Smith told the court he had been groomed by Mr Alfonso.

Mr Smith said he first met Mr Alfonso nearly 20 years ago when he was about 17 or 18 and had gone to his flat for drinks after meeting at a rugby match.

Yostin Andres Mosquera is on trial for murder at the Old Bailey - Central News

He said he remembered drinking heavily and then waking up with a banging headache.

I said to him, Whats happened? He showed me a video of me on all fours and he was penetrating me, Mr Smith told the court.

I didnt know what to do. I was mortified. At this point I didnt know my sexuality  I was confused and scared.

[Being a] black boy in London, gay, whether you were drunk or not  it didnt matter.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said Mr Alfonso told him Dont worry, Im not going to show anyone, but said that if he did favours, the video would never be shared.

Forensic officers in Shepherds Bush, west London, where the couple lived and are believed to have been killed - Jonathan Brady/PA Wire

Under cross-examination, Tom Little KC, the defence barrister, asked: Does it cross your mind, looking back, that you were raped?

Now, yes, Mr Smith replied.

And does it cross your mind that your drink may have been spiked? the barrister asked.

Now, yes.

Does it cross your mind that you were groomed by Albert Alfonso?

Now, yes, Mr Smith said.

Mr Alfonso told him he was interested in black dominatrix fantasies and described fetishes involving master-slave dynamics.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The two then began meeting regularly, with Mr Alfonso paying him about 150 for each sexual encounter, the court heard.

Over time, the meetings became routine and involved consensual acts including domination.

Mr Smith told jurors he wore a mask during the sex acts, as did Mr Alfonso, and that he would sometimes initiate contact when he needed money.

During the Covid pandemic, he said he became closer with Mr Alfonso and also began spending time with Mr Longworth.

He said he would go on bike rides with them and was occasionally supported financially.

A court drawing of Mosquera at the Old Bailey - Elizabeth Cook/PA Wire

Mr Smith told the court he was later introduced to Mosquera, who was described by Mr Alfonso as a young man from Colombia who was staying with them while attending Ealing College.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said Mr Alfonso claimed to be paying Mosqueras travel and college fees, and that Mosquera told him he had a wife and child back home, and was just doing it for the money.

I asked if he was gay or straight  he said he was just doing it for the money. I said Great  so was I, Mr Smith said.

He said the three had taken part in a sex session together the week before the killings.

Describing the relationship between Mosquera and Mr Alfonso, the witness said: Good  very good. He was going to London with him, sightseeing, he seemed fun.

I didnt see anything that seemed like they disliked each other.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Speaking about Mr Longworth, he added: He wouldnt hurt a fly. After the sessions, he would come and sit with us and talk with us.

Mr Smith described the final time he saw them, on a Friday evening before the bodies were discovered.

Albert gave me a hug, Paul gave me a hug, and that was the last I heard of those two, he said.

The trial continues.

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.
MANCHESTER, Ky. (FOX 56)  A Manchester man was arrested on Tuesday and accused of hitting a woman during an argument.

It happened around 8 a.m. on Tuesday, per court documents. Deputies with the Clay County Sheriffs Office said they got a call about a man who wouldnt leave a womans residence on Crawfish Road.

The sheriffs office wrote on Facebook on Wednesday that when deputies arrived at the residence, 21-year-old Taylor Parker was arguing with a crying woman who allegedly had visible bruises on her arm and neck.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The woman told law enforcement that Parker allegedly caused her bruises. He was charged with public intoxication under the influence of a controlled substance and fourth-degree dating violence.

Parker was lodged in the Clay County Detention Center. The investigation remains active.

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.
(The Hill)  Former West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin, who served as a centrist Democrat for most of his career before becoming an independent last spring, denounced his states move to ban ranked-choice voting despite the system never being used there.

Manchin wrote in a post on the social media platform X on Tuesday that elections in West Virginia are heading in the wrong direction given the ranked-choice voting ban from March and a move from a state legislator to potentially close primary elections to only party members starting in 2026.

Lawmakers just banned ranked choice votingeven though weve never used it. At the same time, theyre trying to shut out over 300,000 independent voters from participating in primary elections. Thats nearly 30% of West Virginia voters being told their voices dont matter, he said. This isnt leadershipits political gamesmanship.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey (R), whom Manchin defeated in his 2018 Senate election, signed the ban on ranked-choice voting into law in March after the legislation received overwhelming approval in both the state House and state Senate.

Ranked choice voting is a system in which voters rank multiple candidates in order of preference. In counting the vote, the candidate with the fewest first-place votes is eliminated and their votes are reallocated according to their supporters next preference.

The process continues until one candidate receives a majority of the vote.

The system is used statewide in Alaska and Maine and several municipalities in other states, like California and New York. But moving to ban the system, even if its not currently being used, has become increasingly popular in conservative-leaning states over the past year, with more than a dozen states banning it as of March, according to Ballotpedia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Opponents of the system have argued that its confusing for voters to understand.

State law currently allows political parties to decide for themselves whether to have closed or open primaries. The state GOP Executive Committee voted last year to make its primaries closed, meaning only Republicans will be able to vote in them, starting in 2026.

But West Virginia state Sen. Eric Tarr (R) introduced a bill in February that would prohibit all unaffiliated voters from participating in a major party primary.

Manchin said Democrats tried to close their primary when he was West Virginia secretary of state in 2001, but he stopped them because it wasnt right then, and its not right now.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ranked choice voting gives voters more say and rewards candidates who appeal to a majority, not just a base, he said. Banning it while trying to close primaries sends one clear message: some politicians dont want to compete, they just want control.

Manchin has previously stated his support for ranked choice voting. Throughout his career, which also included a five-year stint as governor before resigning to become a senator, Manchin established a reputation as a maverick, being willing to criticize both parties.

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 fundraiser for Luigi Mangione, the man who is accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson late last year, has topped $1 million.

The GiveGoSend fundraiser has brought in more than $1,042,000 as of Tuesday afternoon, with the goal of raising $1,500,000.

The fund has received funding from more than 28,000 individual donors. The average donation is around $20, according to the organizers, who said the money will be used for expenses related to all three of Mangiones criminal cases.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mangione is accused of shooting Thompson on Dec. 4 in Manhattan.

He was indicted by a federal grand jury in New York last month on four counts, including stalking, a firearms charge and murder through the use of a firearm. If Mangione is convicted of the charges, he would be eligible for the death penalty, something the Department of Justice has pushed for since early April.

Mangione pleaded not guilty to a federal judge on April 25.

Attorney General Pam Bondi previously said prosecutors will consider the executives killing as an act of political violence.

Mangione is also staring down state-level charges in Pennsylvania and New York. He has pleaded not guilty to the 11 charges brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, along with four charges in Pennsylvania.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Authorities say Mangione fled the city after allegedly killing Thompson, who was set to attend an investor conference. He was arrested in Altoona, Pa., at a McDonalds five days later with a loaded firearm and a silencer.

Tuesday marks Mangiones 27th birthday.

One anonymous donor, who gave $27, said Happy Birthday to the man, the myth, and the legend Mr. Luigi Nicholas Mangione. I hope you know how loved and supported you are

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.
MANITOWOC, Wis. (WFRV)  Police in Manitowoc are asking for the publics help in identifying the owner of a dog involved in a biting incident on the citys south side.

The incident occurred around 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, in the 300 block of Reed Avenue. According to the victim, a black and brown German shepherd mix attacked a smaller dog, causing injuries. The victim returned home after the incident, and the suspect and their dog continued walking along Reed Avenue.

The vaccination and license status of the dog is currently unknown.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Anyone with video footage or who may have witnessed the incident is asked to contact the Manitowoc Police Department at 920-686-6551.

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.
WELLINGTON, May 7 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand government agency announced on Wednesday a significant change to its visitor visa application process, easing the requirements for translating supporting documents.

Effective May 26, applicants will no longer need to provide certified translations for supporting documents not in English, aligning the policy with that of neighboring Australia.

According to Immigration New Zealand (INZ), while certified translations are no longer mandatory, applicants are still required to submit English translations of all supporting documents not in English. These translations must include the name of the translator and details of their qualifications or experience.

Translations cannot be completed by the applicant, their family members, or immigration advisers involved in the application process, said the INZ in its announcement.

The INZ stated that this change applies only to visitor visa applications. For resident visa applications, the requirement for certified translations of all non-English documents remains in place.

The policy shift is believed to streamline the application process and reduce applicants' burden, making it more accessible for visitors planning to travel to New Zealand. 
BEVERLY HILLS / WACO, Texas (FOX 44)  A man is in jail after Beverly Hills and Waco Police officers teamed up to restrain him after he allegedly chased his girlfriend with a crowbar.

Beverly Hills Police Chief Kory Martin says the department received a report at approximately 4:44 a.m. Tuesday from a 19-year-old woman stating that her boyfriend, identified as 24-year-old Romeo Love, of Waco, was in an argument with her at 903 S. Valley Mills Drive. According to the report, the victim said she was going to leave  and this is when Love grabbed a crowbar and approached her.

The woman said she ran to her vehicle and was pursued by Love. She reported that as she got into her vehicle, Love began to hit her car with the crowbar. She would later present this damage to the on-duty officer, which was along the drivers side rear passenger door.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chief Martin says the responding department patrol officer was advised that the suspect was still at the location where the Aggravated Assault took place. The Waco Police Department was in the area due to another call they were assisting with.

The Beverly Hills officer, with the assistance of Waco Police officers, was able to get Love to

exit the business and meet them in the parking lot. Officers approached him and began to take him into custody for the assault. The officers started to give Love the command to face the officer.

Chief Martin says Love hesitated and then took a step back. Officers grabbed his arms, and one handcuff was placed on one arm. He was told he was under arrest; however, regardless of three uniformed officers being present, verbal commands being given, and open hand assistance for standard handcuffing, Love chose not to comply and physically resist the handcuffing and arrest. An early warning of the taser was presented to try and get Love to stop the resistance, but Chief Martin says he chose not to listen to the display and warning.

Love continued to resist handcuffing even once on the ground. The Beverly Hills officer stepped back and advised that a taser would be deployed if he did not comply. Over just under a minute and after an estimated five to six commands, Love continued to physically resist verbal commands, taser display, and physical handcuffing attempts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chief Martin says the Beverly Hills officer announced and deployed one set of probes, and there is at least one missed probe, rendering the cycle ineffective. The second set of probes in the Taser 7 was deployed, making proper connection, and a standard cycle was applied. Multiple commands were given to comply, or another cycle would be applied. Love again refused multiple commands to include continued physical resistance, and after warning, the second standard cycle was applied.

Dispute over parked truck brings beating and arrest

Officers then heard what sounded like Love saying, I am good in a very calm manner. He also asked police to stop using force, in a much calmer manner, and he complied with handcuffing.

Chief Martin says handcuff repositioning for suspect comfort was provided, and Love was placed in a seated position with a Waco Police officer providing back support.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The American Medical Response ambulance service was notified shortly after Love was in custody. Upon their arrival, Love was outside the vehicle, seated, and was given access to them. He continued to be verbally argumentative and took very little part in assisting with his medical assessment by AMR to include telling them they dont need anything because he is good.

Chief Martin says regardless of Loves lack of cooperation with AMR Ambulance service, he was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. Once released, he was transported to the McLennan County Jail, where he was charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon  Family Violence and Resisting Arrest.

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 KWKT - FOX 44.
A fossilised creature found in a South African roadside quarry 25 years ago has finally got an official name. The small, segmented, crustacean-like creature, dated to 444 million years ago, can now be introduced as Keurbos susanae. It belongs to the arthropod group of animals, which accounts for about 84% of all known species that exist today, including insects, spiders and crabs.

Palaeontologist Sarah Gabbott explains whats so unusual about her discovery, which she named as part of the process of describing it scientifically.

What can you tell us about this creature and the environment it lived in?

The fossil is about 50cm long and has 46 almost identical segments. Projecting from each is a delicate, gill-like structure. It would probably have looked like a bit like a horseshoe crab and the gills would have been for absorbing oxygen from the water it lived in. Its insides are exquisitely well-preserved, which is very unusual for fossils  normally only the hard, more decay-resistant external features would be preserved. You can see bundles of muscle fibres that would have powered the limbs, tendons and an internal scaffold structure that gave the animal rigidity.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We think it would have spent most of its life living on, or more likely just above, the seafloor, probably walking and swimming in an undulatory (waving) motion.

It lived in the immediate aftermath of the end Ordovician extinction event more than 440 million years ago, caused by glaciations (the spread of icy conditions) across vast swaths of the planet. This extinction wiped out about 85% of Earths species. The marine basin that Keurbos susanae inhabited was probably very cold and at times covered with sea ice.

It was a relatively hostile environment in other ways too. Our analyses of the chemistry of the shales  the sediments on the sea bed where this animal and others lived, now turned to rock  shows that they were deposited under anoxic conditions (that is, there was no oxygen circulating freely in the water). And at times free hydrogen sulfide occurred in the sediment porewaters (the water in tiny spaces between grains of sediment) and even above the seafloor. Not much could live in these conditions and this was critical to this fossils amazing preservation.

It meant the carcass was not scavenged by other animals after it died. Also, the chemistry was important in the process whereby the soft tissues, which should usually rot away rapidly, became mineralised quickly after death. This turned the animals anatomy to mineral which survived for hundreds of millions of years until it was discovered.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is preserved inside out.

Keurbos susanae is a new genus and species which we are still trying to place among other early arthropods. The fact that its insides are better preserved than its outside makes it difficult to compare with other fossils that are preserved the other way round.

How did you find the fossil and what else has been found in that area?

The site is in the Cedarberg mountains, north of Cape Town. To collect fossils in this area you need a permit granted by the Council for Geoscience. Fossil-bearing rocks are protected by law because of their heritage and scientific value.

Fossil hunting in these rocks takes a lot of hard work and patience, splitting open the shales with a hammer and chisel. These shale rocks are whats left of layers of silt that were once on the sea floor. The fossils here are super rare: you can dig and split shale for days and not find a single fossil! But we know there are some in there because of discoveries made previously.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I found two specimens. The first one is complete but the second one only has the middle part of the body preserved.

In the same rocks we have found some of the earliest vertebrate fossils with mineralised teeth, called conodonts. They were eel shaped and predatory. Also eurypterids (sea scorpions), arthropods with powerful swimming appendages, which would have cruised through the frigid waters. There are also orthocones  a type of chambered cephalopod  like the mollusc fossils called ammonites, which have been found in large numbers, but with a straight shell instead of coiled.

Why has it taken 25 years to describe Keurbos susanae scientifically?

Two reasons really.

First, because of the nature of preservation, where all the insides are perfectly preserved but the outside (the carapace or body covering) is absent, it is just difficult to interpret and compare to other fossils. And secondly because the specimens head and legs are missing and these are key characteristics that palaeontologists would use to help them to understand the evolutionary relationships of such fossils.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If more specimens were to be found, with their heads and legs, we could be more certain about where this fossil fitted in the scheme of life. But the site where I found it has been covered in a lot of rock from quarrying activity. So we decided to describe what we had in the meantime, and not wait for more examples.

The fossils name, Keurbos susanae, refers to the place where I found it and to my mother, Sue, who encouraged me to follow a career that made me happy, whatever that might be.

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: Sarah Gabbott, University of Leicester

Read more:



Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sarah Gabbott receives funding from Natural Environmental Research Council; National Geographic. She is affiliated with Green Circle Nature Regeneration CIC a not for profit Environmental Community Interest Company in the UK
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met President Donald Trump in the Oval Office.

Trump said he still believes Canada should become the 51st US state.

Carney was seen pursing his lips, but kept his expression neutral as Trump spoke.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said he's glad no one could tell what he was thinking when he met President Donald Trump at the White House on Tuesday.

"I am glad you could not tell what was going through my mind," Carney told a reporter after she had asked him about his thoughts at the meeting when Trump said he wanted Canada to be a part of the US.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During their meeting, Carney repeatedly told Trump that Canada was not for sale. In addition to threatening and imposing tariffs on Canada, Trump has also talked about adopting Canada as the 51st US state.

"The president has made known his wish about that issue for some time. I have been careful, always, to distinguish between wish and reality," Carney said at a doorstop interview after his meeting with Trump.

"I was clear there in the Oval Office as I have been clear throughout on behalf of Canadians that this is never gonna happen. Canada is not for sale and never will be for sale," Carney continued.

Earlier, Carney and Trump held a joint press conference after a meeting at the Oval Office. Trump told reporters he still believes Canada should be the 51st US state, but added that "it takes two to tango."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"It would really be a wonderful marriage because it's two places, they get along very well. They like each other a lot," Trump said.

Carney was seen pursing his lips, but kept his expression neutral as Trump spoke.

"As you know from real estate, there are some places that are never for sale. We're sitting in one right now. You know, Buckingham Palace, that you visited as well," Carney said in response to Trump.

"And having met with the owners of Canada over the course of the campaign the last several months, it's not for sale and won't be for sale ever. But the opportunity is the partnership and what we can build together," Carney added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Carney took over as the leader of Canada's ruling Liberal Party from his predecessor, Justin Trudeau, in March. Trudeau faced repeated calls to step down after his deputy prime minister, Chrystia Freeland, resigned from his cabinet in December.

The Liberal Party was initially lagging behind its opponents, the Conservative Party, in the polls. But Trump's aggressive tariffs may well have helped turn the tables.

Trump's rhetoric and threats sparked nationalistic fervor among Canadians, who boycotted US goods and renewed their support for the Liberal Party. The party was able to form a minority government after it won 169 out of 343 parliamentary seats in the April elections.

"As I've been warning for months, America wants our land, our resources, our water, our country. Never. But these are not idle threats. President Trump is trying to break us so that America can own us. That will never, ever happen," Carney said in his victory speech on April 29.

Representatives for Carney did not respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

Read the original article on Business Insider
A clip of Mark Zuckerberg talking about AI companions quickly went viral, with commenters online calling him out for being out of touch and not comprehending friendship. Bloomberg via Getty Images

Feeling lonely? Mark Zuckerberg thinks maybe its time you send an AI bot a friend request.

Last week, the Meta CEO sat down for an hour-long conversation with podcaster Dwarkesh Patel and argued that its only a matter of time before society sees the value in AI friendships.

Theres this stat that I always think is crazy, Zuckerberg says in a clip going around social media. The average American, I think, has, I think its fewer than three friends. Three people that they consider friends. And the average person has demand for meaningfully more. I think its like 15 friends or something, right?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While Zuckerberg doesnt argue that AI can replace actual friends, he does say it can get people longing for connectivity closer to that 15 number. (Especially when the personalization loop starts to kick in and the AI starts to get to know you better and better, he said.)

The tech billionaire also suggested there may be untapped potential in AI girlfriends and therapists, both of which are a whole different ethical can of worms.

Zuckerbergs remarks quickly went viral, with commenters online accusing him of being out of touch and not comprehending the true nature of friendship. Some called his ideas dystopian.

Nothing would solve my loneliness like having 12 friends I made up, TV writer Mike Drucker joked on Bluesky.

Zuckerberg explaining how Meta is creating personalized AI friends to supplement your real ones: The average American has 3 friends, but has demand for 15. pic.twitter.com/Y9ClAqsbOA  Roman Helmet Guy (@romanhelmetguy) April 30, 2025

Yet the tech CEO is, at least, attempting to offer solutions for a known problem. The loneliness epidemic  especially isolation among teen boys  is a growing public health concern, with significant individual and societal health implications.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to a 2023 Gallup study, nearly 1 in 4 people worldwide  approximately 1 billion people  feel very or fairly lonely. (The number would have undoubtedly been higher had the pollsters asked people in China, the second-most populous country in the world.)

That said, as many tech media outlets noted, the argument in favor of AI friends is interesting coming from Zuckerberg, given Metas poor track record with implementing AI bots on its own platforms.

Stefano Puntoni, a marketing professor at the Wharton School whos been studying the psychological effects of technology for a decade, pointed this out as well.

Given what we know, I am not sure Id want to delegate the job [of solving the loneliness epidemic] to such companies, considering their track record on mental health and teenage wellbeing, Puntoni said. Social media companies are currently not doing much to help most people, especially the young, forge meaningful and healthy connections with themselves or others.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Just last week, Futurism reported that Facebooks ad algorithm could detect when teen girls deleted selfies so it could serve them beauty ads  a claim that was made in former Facebook employee Sarah Wynn-Williamss tell-all, Careless People.

There have been cases (and subsequent lawsuits) where kids using AI companions through services like Character.AI, Replika and Nomi, have received messages that turn sexual or encourage self-harm. Metas chatbots have similarly engaged in sexual conversations with minors, according to an investigation from The Wall Street Journal, though a Meta spokesperson accused the Post of forcing fringe scenarios. (Proponents of AI like to talk about it like its a neutral tool  AI as the engine, humans as the steering wheel, theyll say  but cases like that complicate the idea.)

Still, AI experts like Puntoni arent entirely against the idea of AI companionship. When used in moderation and with built-in boundaries in place, they say it has some benefits. In his recent research, Puntoni found that AI companions are effective at alleviating momentary feelings of loneliness.

Those who used the companion reported a significant decrease in loneliness, reporting an average reduction of 16 percentage points over the course of the week.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Puntoni and his colleagues also compared how lonely a person felt after engaging with an AI companion versus a real person, and surprisingly, the results were pretty much the same: Contact with people brought a 19-percentage-point drop in loneliness levels, and 20 percentage points for an AI companion.

In our studies, we didnt test the long-term consequences of AI companions  our longest study is one week long. That should be a priority for future research, Puntoni explained.

My expectation is that AI companions will turn out to be very good for the wellbeing of some people and potentially very bad for the long-term wellbeing of others, he said.

And a lot will obviously depend on the decisions made by AI companies, Puntoni said. Take Elon Musks X, for instance. A couple of months ago, Grok  Xs AI bot  released an X-rated AI voice called unhinged that will scream and insult users. (Grok also has personalities for crazy conspiracies, NSFW roleplay and an Unlicensed Therapist mode.)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Those examples dont exactly inspire confidence, Puntoni said.

Theres privacy concerns to consider when it comes to AI buddies, too, said Jen Caltrider, a consumer privacy advocate. Relationship bots are designed to pull as much personal information out of you as they can to tailor themselves into being your friend, therapist, sexting partner or gaming buddy.

But once you put all those hyper-personal thoughts out into the internet  which AI is part of  you lose control of them, Caltrider said.

That personal information is now in the hands of the people on the other end of that AI chatbot, she said. Can you trust them? Maybe, but also, maybe not. The research Ive done shows that too many of the AI chatbot apps out there have questionable, at best, privacy policies and track records.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dan Weijers, a senior lecturer in philosophy who studies ethical uses of technology at the University of Waikato in New Zealand, also thinks we should be skeptical about any pronouncements about AI from any profit-taking company spokesperson.

But he concedes that AI friendship can provide some things that human friendship could never: 24/7 availability (and the instant gratification that comes with that) and the ability to tailor AI to be the perfect, always agreeable companion.

A minority of users of AI companions have romantic relationships with their AI but some will even say they are married to them, said Dan Weijers, a senior lecturer in philosophy who studies ethical uses of technology at the University of Waikato in New Zealand. Maria Korneeva via Getty Images

That agreeableness is a polarizing feature. OpenAI recently withdrew an update that made ChatGPT annoying and sycophantic after users shared screenshots and anecdotes of the chatbot giving them over-the-top praise.

Others dont mind the kissing up. Weijers, who visits a lot of forums reading about human-AI companion interactions as part of his research, said there are those cases where a person falls in love with their AI companion, not unlike the scenario in Spike Jonzes 2013 film Her.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A minority of users of AI companions have romantic relationships with their AI but some will even say they are married to them, Weijers said. On one online forum, one person even claimed that their best friend was their AI companion despite having several human friends and a real-life husband.

Still, isnt part of friendship hearing the thoughts and opinions of someone whos different from us? Thats what Sven Nyholm, a professor of the ethics of artificial intelligence at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, wonders about these bonds.

AI chatbots can simulate conversation and produce plausible-sounding text outputs that resemble the sorts of things friends might say to us, Nyholm said, but thats about it.

As humans, we want to be seen and recognized by others. We care about what other people think about us, he said. Other people have minds, whereas AI chatbots are mindless zombies.

Valerie Tiberius, professor of philosophy at the University of Minnesota and the author of the forthcoming book Artificially Yours: AI And The Value Of Friendship, thinks AI companions supplementing friendships could still be healthy. Supplanting your friends is another story.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Challenging, messy human friendships that contain friction and disagreement help us develop into interesting people; they enrich our lives beyond just improving our mood, she said.

If you only had chatbot friends that are programmed to be unerringly supportive and positive, you wouldnt learn how dumb some of your own ideas are, Tiberius said. I also appreciate that my friends sometimes check me in ways that a chatbot wouldnt do.

What AI chatbots say to us is based on impressive machine learning programs, but if you care about getting true recognition, Nyholm thinks theyre a poor substitute.

I also really think we should perhaps start talking about the AI-ization of life: When it is suggested that any problem  including loneliness  should be solved with the help of AI, then we might be trapped in a mindset where it is assumed that for any problem we might have, AI is the solution.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If people are lonely and need friends, instead of telling them AI can be their friend, Nyholm thinks tech companies should be using technology to connect them with other lonely people who are also looking for friends.

One thing is clear to Caltrider, the privacy advocate: As more and more people use these AI companions, were going to need some serious AI literacy training to learn how to navigate this new, so-far unwieldy territory.

I just read an article about a developing field of AI psychiatry to help AIs overcome their mistakes, she said. Its scary to think there might be more money going into training AIs to understand humans than for humans to understand AIs.

For the time being, Caltrider isnt trusting AI to be her friend.

Everyone has to make their own decisions here, though, she said. And honestly, Ive asked ChatGPT some questions I probably wouldnt want the world to know. Its just easy and, yes, kind of fun.

Related...
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP)  A Maryland board approved a $14.3 million contract on Wednesday to begin the demolition and rebuilding of Baltimore's storied but antiquated Pimlico Race Course, home to the second jewel of the Triple Crown, the Preakness Stakes.

The vote by the three-member Board of Public Works, which includes Gov. Wes Moore, was made 10 days before the 150th Preakness Stakes, which is scheduled for May 17. It will be the last time the annual horse race will be held with the existing structures in place before the track is rebuilt on the same site. The demolition will begin shortly after this years race.

There cannot be a better time to announce the beginning of a transformation that will allow Pimlico to become a year-round hub for economic activity within the Park Heights community, Moore said of the Baltimore neighborhood and longtime home of the race.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Under the plan, the Preakness will take place in Laurel Park, located just southwest of Baltimore, in 2026 while the new facility is built, before returning to Pimlico in time for the 2027 race.

Craig Thompson, the chair of the Maryland Stadium Authority which is overseeing the design of the new track, said the plan is to make Pimlico the home of Maryland thoroughbred racing. The track will go from hosting about 15 races a year to well over 100, Thompson said.

This is more than just about a racetrack, as historic and important as it is," Thompson said. This is about bringing hundreds of millions of dollars in state investments to Park Heights.

Thompson also shared a preview of the design plans. They include a new clubhouse with architecture inspired by the Rawlings Conservatory in Baltimore's Druid Hill park and the original Pimlico Clubhouse, which included a colonnade and rooftop balconies, Thompson said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last year, the board approved a deal to transfer ownership of Pimlico from The Stronach Group to the State of Maryland in order to ensure the Preakness remains in Baltimore.

The state has been wrestling with what to do to restore the old racetrack for decades. Aptly nicknamed Old Hilltop, the track opened in 1870. Its where Man o War, Seabiscuit, Secretariat and many others pranced to the winners circle.

But its age has long been a concern. In 2019, the Maryland Jockey Club closed off nearly 7,000 grandstand seats, citing the safety and security of all guests and employees.

The horse racing industry and other equine industries have been a cornerstone of Maryland agriculture, as well as an integral part of preserving green space.
U.S. Rep. Stephen Lynch will face a challenger next year for the congressional seat he has held since 2001.

Patrick Roath, a lawyer and voting rights advocate from Boston, said Wednesday that he will aim to unseat Lynch to bring a new generation of leadership to Capitol Hill.

I think we are in desperate need of new voices, new leadership, and big news ideas in D.C., the Democrat said in a LinkedIn post Wednesday morning.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Roath, who also worked for former Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick, was first reported to be considering a run for Congress in late February.

That was shortly after Lynch verbally sparred with constituents at a rally in Boston as he and his Democratic colleagues faced pressure to oppose President Donald Trumps agenda in Congress more forcefully. At one point in a contentious back-and-forth at the rally, Lynch suggested people should run for Congress if they disagreed with his strategy or judgment of what was in the best interests of the country.

Im running because everything is on the line right now with Trump in the White House, Roath said in a campaign launch video. And weve got to have people who are ready to go down there, and fight for us, and stick up for us, and defend our democracy.

Roath was raised in Connecticut and has lived in the Boston area since he attended Tufts University in the early 2000s.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After college, according to his campaign, he interned in the Obama White House before joining then-Gov. Deval Patrick as a campaign aide and staffer at the State House.

Roath also chaired the board of Common Cause Massachusetts, a Boston-based democracy and voting rights nonprofit, where he was involved with campaigns to pass automatic voter registration in Massachusetts, adopt universal mail-in voting in the state, and other voting accessibility initiatives.

For the last decade, he also worked as a commercial civil litigator at Ropes & Gray, a global law firm based in Boston, where he ran a pro bono practice focused on voting rights.

The resident of Bostons Jamaica Plain neighborhood will challenge Lynch for the Massachusetts 8th Congressional District, which includes part of Boston and stretches south to Brockton.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In his campaign launch video, Roath said he felt the American dream success stories of his parents, whose stable jobs at IBM brought them into the middle class, are fading away.

It was that sense that you dont hear that American dream opportunity story so much anymore that really got me motivated to be in public service for the first time, he said.

More on Politics

Read the original article on MassLive.
A Massachusetts jail ignored an immigration detainer and released a Dominican national charged with masked armed robbery back into the community, federal officials said Wednesday.

However, the Norfolk County Sheriffs Office refuted that claim later Wednesday, calling it false and saying that a local court instead released the accused armed robber on bail.

Emerson Esteban Arias-Polanco, 27, of the Dominican Republic who is in the United States illegally, was arrested by federal officers in Boston on March 20, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said in a statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Officers with ICE Boston and agents with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives made the arrest. Arias-Polanco remains in ICE custody.

Emerson Esteban Arias-Polanco illegally entered the United States and apparently decided to commit an armed robbery while wearing a mask, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia Hyde said in a statement. He clearly represents a threat to our Massachusetts residents.

ICE Boston lodged an immigration detainer against Arias-Polanco with the Norfolk County House of Corrections on Jan. 5, Hyde said. However, Hyde said the detention facility refused to honor the ICE detainer and released Arias-Polanco from custody.

It is regrettable that the Norfolk County House of Corrections decided to ignore our immigration detainer and released Arias-Polanco back into the community, Hyde said. ICE Boston will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing alien offenders from the streets of New England.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Norfolk County Sheriffs Office released the following statement to Boston 25 on Wednesday afternoon: The allegation by ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston that the Norfolk County Sheriffs Office released Esteban Arias-Polanco back into the community, despite a federal civil detainer, is false.

Arias-Polanco was remanded to our custody on December 1, 2023. Court records show Arias-Polanco was released on bail on January 8, 2024, with GPS monitoring, while at court and in court custody, per a court order, the Norfolk County Sheriffs Office statement said. He was not released by the Norfolk County Sheriffs Office, and our office did not ignore any detainer.

The Norfolk County Sheriffs Office is dedicated to the public safety of the 28 communities we serve, and we work cooperatively with all of our law enforcement partners, including those in federal law enforcement, the Norfolk County Sheriffs Office statement said.

It is regrettable that ICE would mislead the public about its operations and the vast cooperation it receives from its law enforcement partners at the local, county, and state levels, the Norfolk County Sheriffs Office statement said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Massachusetts Court officials do not have the authority to hold an individual in custody solely on the basis of a Federal Civil Immigration Detainer, Jennifer Donahue, spokesperson for the Massachusetts Trial Courts, said in a statement to Boston 25 on Wednesday.

In order to comply with Massachusetts law, court officers are prohibited from assisting or interfering with ICE agents in executing their obligations under Federal law, Donahue said.

That means that a court officer will not interfere with ICE arresting an individual who has been released. On the other hand, court officers are prohibited from keeping a released individual in custody awaiting an ICE agent, Donahue said.

When reached Wednesday afternoon, Westwood attorney Paul Marino, who is representing Arias-Polanco, declined to comment on the case.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dedham Police officers arrested Arias-Polanco on Nov. 30, 2023 and charged him with armed robbery  masked, Hyde said.

On May 3, 2024, his case was elevated to Norfolk County Superior Court, and he was indicted for the charge.

According to the indictment, on Nov. 20, 2023, Arias-Polanco, who was living in Boston at the time, was masked and armed with a knife when he allegedly assaulted a man in Dedham and robbed him of $280 in cash and personal property.

Arias-Polanco illegally entered the United States on an unknown date, at an unknown location, without being inspected, admitted or paroled by a U.S. immigration official, Hyde said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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
SANAA, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The Houthis have vowed to retaliate against Israel for its airstrikes in Yemen on Tuesday, which killed seven and injured 97 others, according to the Houthis-run health authorities.

The strikes, which hit the Yemeni capital and nearby Amran province, severely damaged Sanaa International Airport.

In remarks to Houthi-run al-Masirah TV on Wednesday, the director general of the Sanaa airport, Khaled Al-Shaif, said: "All flights to and from the airport have been suspended until further notice after the airport was destroyed by the Israeli aggression airstrikes."

Israel strikes on Sanaa airport caued "heavy losses," Al-Shaif said, adding that the runway, tower, radar equipment, the buildings of terminals, departure and arrival halls, as well as the offices of passport, customs, and security, were all "destroyed."

"The losses ... could amount to approximately 500 million U.S. dollars," Al-Shaif said, adding: "It will take a very long time" to rebuild it.

Following the Israeli airstrikes, several top Houthi leaders, speaking through the group's al-Masirah TV, vowed to retaliate against Israel, promising attacks in the coming hours.

According to Israeli media outlets, the Israeli retaliatory airstrikes on Tuesday afternoon were a response to a Houthi missile attack on Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv on Sunday morning, which injured eight Israelis.

The Houthis have been targeting Israel since November 2023 to show solidarity with the Palestinians after the Israel-Hamas war broke out in Gaza. 
A Massachusetts man who admitted to slitting his mothers throat out of fear for his sisters safety was granted parole after 22 years.

On Sept. 24, 2003, Alexis Molina pleaded guilty in Bristol Superior Court to second-degree murder. He was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole. He also pleaded guilty to armed robbery with a knife, larceny of a motor vehicle and larceny.

In 2002, Molina, 22, moved out of his mothers house but went back to get his clothes. However, his mother, Catherine Molina Velazquez, began telling him that she was going to tell his sisters parole officer to arrest her for parole violations. Molina said his sister had attempted suicide the last time she was incarcerated, so this upset him, the parole board stated. When his mother began looking for the parole officers number, he broke down.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He got a knife from the kitchen, came up behind his mother, and slit her throat, the parole board wrote. After he killed his mother, Molina was worried he would go to jail and there would be no one to care for his younger sister. So, he hid her body, hoping no one would find out who killed her.

On Nov. 25, 2002, New Bedford police responded to a report of a foul odor coming from a second floor apartment. Officers then found the body of 39-year-old Molina Velazquez in a bedroom closet, wrapped in a blanket.

Molina was questioned multiple times by New Bedford police. They said there were several discrepancies in his stories.

On Dec. 9, 2002, Molina was arrested for the murder of his mother. After being booked, officials said Molina confessed to the murder. He also confessed to taking his mothers car and jewelry, as well as about $6,000 and drugs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

His first parole board hearing was in 2017.

During the hearing, he took responsibility for the murder, said he loved his mother and that they were both in a dark place at that time.

A month before the murder, he had been released from the psychiatric ward of New Bedford Hospital after having depression and anxiety.

The Board noted that Mr. Molinas life history is quite tragic, the 2017 decision stated, adding that he had dropped out of high school, was unemployed, was addicted to drugs and that Molinas mother beat him and his sister many, many times. He also had his first exposure to marijuana at age 11.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While incarcerated, he had to be transferred to Pennsylvania due to numerous enemies in Massachusetts.

Molina was a former member of a security threat group (STG), where killing a family member was against the groups code. His mother had been a high-ranking member of the group.

As he was a target for punishment by the STG, he had to constantly defend himself from other inmates in Massachusetts, the parole board wrote in 2017, adding that he had signed security threat group renunciation papers in Pennsylvania.

Still, he feared for his safety.

Please dont leave me in here, he begged the parole board.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But he was not granted parole in 2017.

In 2021, he went in front of the parole board again. He stated he understood that in 2017 he was not granted parole because the anger was still there.

However, the parole board said he still lacks insight as to how he was able to commit such a horrific offense.

In 2024, he went in front of the parole board again. Molinas aunt spoke in support of parole, while the Bristol District Attorneys office spoke in opposition.

The boards vote on May 5 was unanimous and he was granted parole.

He will have to have an approved home plan before he is officially released. He will be tested for drugs and alcohol and is not allowed to have contact or association with active gang members. He also must continue to have mental health counseling for depression and trauma.

More on the Massachusetts Parole Board

Read the original article on MassLive.
Massachusetts is the ninth-best state in the country, according to a new ranking from U.S. News and World Report.

The Best States rankings look at eight categories: health care, education, natural environment, opportunity, economy, crime and corrections, infrastructure, and fiscal stability.

The categories are weighted by survey results showing what issues Americans believe their states should prioritize and which present the most pressing concerns. Education and health care are the highest-weighted categories.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

More: Massachusetts is the best state for women in 2025, according to a new ranking. Here's why

With top rankings in the education, health care, and natural environment categories, U.S. News gave Massachusetts the number nine spot. It was the third best state in New England, behind New Hampshire and Vermont.

Boston Skyline [Via MerlinFTP Drop]

Why is Massachusetts ranked so high?

Massachusetts's top ten rankings in four categories, including the two with the highest weight, helped propel the state to its ninth-place finish.

The state was ranked second in health care (including first in health care access), third in natural environment, and fifth in both education and crime and corrections.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It has moved up since 2024, when it was ranked 10th.

"Legislatively, Massachusetts has paved the way for other states: It led the way in universal health care coverage, with a plan enacted in 2006 that inspired former President Barack Obamas Affordable Care Act," said the report. "It was also the first state to legalize gay marriage and the second to pass discrimination laws for individuals who identify as lesbian, gay or bisexual."

What is the best state in the country?

According to U.S. News and World Report, Utah is the best state in the country for the third year in a row.

It earned top 10 marks in five categories: fiscal stability, economy, infrastructure, education and crime and corrections.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The report said that Utahs economy has become one of the most diverse in the U.S., giving it great strength in the fiscal-related categories.

"In the last two and a half decades, Utahs economy has outperformed the nation, had greater strength, and when weve had downturns, we have been able to rebound much more quickly in our state, said Natalie Gochnour, director of the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah.

What are the 10 best states in the U.S., according to U.S. News and World Report?

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Massachusetts is the 9th best state in ranking. See what state beat it
Brianna Suggs, a longtime aide to Mayor Adams, is back in her old job fundraising for his campaign after being reassigned to an administrative role in the wake of an FBI raid on her home in November 2023.

Suggs Brooklyn apartment was the first home raided in the federal investigation into Adams ties to the Turkish government, which eventually yielded corruption charges against the mayor.

Its unclear exactly when Suggs, 27, resumed fundraising for the mayor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But in the past two weeks, Suggs reached out to at least one real estate executive to gauge interest in hosting a fundraiser for the mayors reelection bid, sources familiar with the matter told the Daily News. That revelation comes after Adams, following the raid at Suggs home, said in late 2023 she had stopped soliciting donations for him and instead been assigned to focus on paperwork matters.

Todd Shapiro, a spokesman for Adams reelection effort, confirmed Wednesday that Suggs has been involved in fundraising for the 2025 bid, but wouldnt say exactly when she got back to doing that.

Brianna Suggs has never left the campaign  She has worked on fundraising for the mayors winning campaign in 2021 and already has been instrumental in attracting additional supporters and forging new coalitions for the mayors reelection efforts, Shapiro said.

Suggs has since March 2022 been paid at least $450,160 by the mayors reelection campaign, making her its highest-paid vendor, according to the latest disclosure filings released in March. That includes monthly retainer payments of $10,000 through the first few months of 2025. The payments were described as being for consulting work.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Shes a goddaughter of Ingrid Lewis-Martin, Adams former chief adviser who resigned just before she was hit with state bribery charges in December. Suggs started working for Adams as an intern at Brooklyn Borough Hall when he was borough president.

Adams indictment contains numerous references to Suggs and her work helping set up fundraisers for the mayor that drew illegal straw donations, but she was never charged with any wrongdoing by the feds.

Adams charges were dropped in April after President Trumps Department of Justice intervened. After Trumps DOJ got the case squashed, Adams dropped out of Junes Democratic mayoral primary and is now seeking reelection as an independent.

The news of Suggs return to her old gig comes as Adams is preparing to host one of his first major reelection campaign fundraisers since his charges were dropped.

The fundraiser, set to be held Thursday evening at Capital Grille in Manhattan, is being hosted by Tony Delgado, a prominent Puerto Rican Trump supporter and founder of a Latino finance platform; Hugo Sanchez, the founder of a video conferencing company; and Alejandro Zayas, a minister and community leader, according to an invitation.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas says police settlements are straining city budgets, and now hes calling on the state to help pay up.

The Board of Police Commissioners recently agreed to a $14 million settlement with Ricky Kidd, the man wrongly convicted of a 1996 murder. He spent more than two decades in prison before being exonerated.

City of Gardner gives residents at apartment complex 48 hours to move

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Through email, Kansas City Police Department Sgt. Phil DiMartino said he was not familiar with the conversations Lucas has had with Missouri about legal costs. FOX4 was not able to talk to anyone from KCPD on camera Tuesday.

Regardless this sounds like potentially a legislative matter, DiMartino added. Generally, we refrain from comment on pending or potential legislative matters.

In a news release Tuesday, Lucas said the $14 million Ricky Kidd settlement is the highest in KCPD history. In April, KCPD also reached a $4 million settlement with the family of Cameron Lamb, who was shot and killed in 2019.

I spoke to Chief Stacey Graves this morning. I think she understands, Lucas said when asked if he thought this issue could drive a wedge between he and Police Chief Stacey Graves. First of all, she has my total confidence. Shes an exceptional chief. I think shes doing great and innovative work addressing 911 in particular.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Kidd and Lamb family settlements far exceed the $2.5 million KCPD estimates in its current budget, according to the Mayors news release. Missouri provides another $1 million per fiscal year in legal expenses to the department.

Missouri family, two Oklahoma teens among 8 killed in Franklin County crash

We havent had $1 million of liability for years, Lucas said. Last year, we had a lot more than that. This year, were already seeing a lot more, and we have more substantial lawsuits ahead. When you have these types of eight figure demands that come to the Board of Police Commissioners, we need to do a better job frankly of budgeting long term, and we need to get the state of Missouri to provide more support.

KCPDs run by a governor appointed Board of Police Commissioners except for the mayor. Republican Governor Mike Kehoe and Republican State Senator Tony Luetkemeyer did not respond to our requests for comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lucas added that the city will be less safe in the future and defunded due to litigation as opposed to politicians if budgeting doesnt improve.

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.
For the first time, Mayor Vi Lyles publicly said sorry on Wednesday to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Chief Johnny Jennings for comments made by former Charlotte City Councilman Tariq Bokhari in Bokharis quest to secure outer carrier vests for officers.

PAST COVERAGE: Charlotte City Council settles with Chief Johnny Jennings

The chief was publicly attacked by a former councilmember who stated his intent was to damage his reputation and end his career, Lyles said. I owe the chief an apology for not publicly supporting him there.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As Channel 9 reported, those comments and the debate over outer carrier vests led to a secret vote to settle with the chief who was threatening legal action.

The city attorney defended those talks happening behind closed doors.

{The city} is obligated to comply with the personnel privacy statute that maintains the confidentiality of the information in the personnel file, Interim City Attorney Anthony Fox said.

While councilmembers maintained their silence on the closed session proceedings, they were not shy about talking about an email from Councilmember Victoria Watlington sent Tuesday night.

Im extremely concerned with the level of unethical, immoral, and frankly, illegal activities occurring within city government, the email said. I have seen enough. Over the last five and a half years, I have witnessed the brazen disregard for dissenting opinions and the rule of law. Never, however, have I seen such an egregious example as what has occurred in the last week. It is time for a change.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Councilman Ed Driggs criticized Watlington for the remarks.

It saddens me that a member of council would use scaremongering tactics like this to draw attention to herself, he said. Im not aware of any foundation for councilmember Watlingtons allegations.

Councilman Malcolm Graham called on Watlington to produce evidence that something theyve done is improper

Words like unethical, immoral, illegal activities, disregard for the sitting opinions of rule law, they matter a lot, he said. They echo outside the building.

Councilmembers and Lyles called on Watlington to produce evidence. Fox said he is prepared to investigate anything she brings forward.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Reached by phone, Watlington told Channel 9 Government Reporter Joe Bruno that she was not alleging economic corruption. She said that she was referring to people taking actions that are not within their authority. She says there needs to be an overhaul of how the city conducts business.

MORE PAST COVERAGE:

Graham also called on Fox to investigate the source of the leaks about the closed session. Fox said if that is something the council desires, he will likely hire outside counsel. Fox declined to reveal the amount of money being provided to Jennings as part of the settlement. He also did not commit to releasing it, but said he will comply with the law.

In a lengthy news conference,



Mayor Vi Lyles apologized to Chief Johnny Jennings for how he was treated during the outer carrier debate



Several councilmembers and the mayor reiterated their support for the chief.



Many of them were critical and disappointed at Councilmember pic.twitter.com/oyvNHezhef  Joe Bruno (@JoeBrunoWSOC9) May 7, 2025

A spokesperson for Jennings says the chief watched the press conference and appreciated the support from the mayor and council.

Read the controversial text messages at the heart of CMPD chief settlement (Video below)

Lyles is apologizing to Jennings over how he was treated last summer during the debate over whether CMPD officers should be able to wear outer carrier vests. Bokhari launched a public and intensive campaign to raise money and garner community support for the vests after Chief Jennings said he opposed them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That campaign and the text messages he sent to Jennings led to a settlement for the chief from Charlotte taxpayers. It was approved by the Charlotte City Council in closed session. Terms of the settlement have not been disclosed.

WFAE was the first to obtain and report on these messages last fall.

In light of the Charlotte City Councils controversial settlement, Channel 9 also requested the records that were produced. The city of Charlotte released them Wednesday morning.

The day before the first message was sent, Jennings and Bokhari met, and there was an impasse on this issue.

The contentious messages started the morning of the budget straw votes on May 30.

Bokhari texted Jennings:

I just want to reiterate. Whatever happens from this point forward is not personal.

Jennings responded:

That can be a fine line. As long as you stick to that, were fine. Just know that I dont plan on sitting on my hands either. Hopefully, you will reconsider this and let me make the decisions for my agency.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and Uptown leaders are taking action to make sure this years Fourth of July fireworks show is safe.

Bokhari replied:

I love you dearly as a friend, and always will, but we are locked in on this path now. I hate this so much but tried everything I could think of to make another path. Ill pray for you and the dept.

Jennings then said:

Not sure of your plan, but it sounds like youre getting ready to get personal. I hope what you are getting ready to do is worth it for you. Its a shame that you would resort to this because we disagree on the topic. I would never do that to you.

The last message that day was this one from Bokhari:

I promise you I am very good at separating personal versus business. But when I call out why something I believe should happen isnt happening- why its stuck- that points to you and I have to call that out. That is NOT personal, though, thats business. If I said you just dont care about the morale implications of this decision, that would be personal, which I have no intention of doing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Jennings did not respond.

Later that night, Bokhari launched his campaign to get outer carrier vests for officers.

I am doubling down on my commitment to find the half a million dollar one time investment from other sources in the city budget and will be applying maximum pressure to enable our rank and file officers to wear them when they are out protecting us, Councilman Bokhari said in May 30th budget meeting.

Bokhari would go on to launch a website and petition about the issue. It was updated throughout the summer.

On June 14, CMPD released a statement from Jennings explaining his position on the outer carrier vests.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The outer vest has a military-style appearance that contradicts the community-oriented policing philosophy I have championed for years, he said.

Bokhari texted Jennings a couple of weeks later on July 6. This was their first message since Bokharis campaign. He said: Youve made a terrible error in judgment, my friend. I hate what comes next.

Jennings didnt respond, but an hour later, Bokhari sent him this message: As your friend, I want you to know what happens next: Ill be demanding your resignation starting Monday. Ill be hammering you from the press, the private sector, the foundations, the General Assembly, Congress, and several high-profile national organizations. Ill put maximum pressure on the city manager to fire you from all those angles as well. I may not ultimately win - but I will not stop and it will cripple your legacy youve worked so hard for. Just a final bit of food for thought. You have 36 hours to call it all off by compromising in some small way. Otherwise, its in Gods hands. I want you to know I still have a lot of love for you as a friend. But this is much more important than any of that. Ive given you several weeks while Ive been restrained going only 10%. Thats all over starting Monday morning unless you start seeing the light and being reasonable to find middle ground for the rank and file, you have a sacred responsibility to support. As I said- I may not win - but I was blessed with a set of skills that I can promise you will be very uncomfortable to experience. This will be my last communication.

Jennings didnt respond.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bokharis petition gathered thousands of signatures and on the Aug. 1, the chief changed his tune.

CMPD HR sent an email saying all officers now have the option to wear outer carrier vests as a preventive health measure.

The move was celebrated by Bokhari and the Fraternal Order of Police, which supported the former councilmans efforts.

Bokhari sent one more message on Aug. 5.

Thank you for allowing more access to vests. I know this was a difficult decision but it means a lot.

Jennings gave a thumbs-up to the message.
ST. LOUIS  St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer held a news conference today, outlining prevalent topics in the community.

Spencer shared that she and her team are continuously discovering initiatives to lower the rate of crime in the St. Louis area.

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Daily News

When speaking today, Spencer also detailed the visible acts of violence and the visible acts of criminal activity surrounding reckless driving in the area.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Were taking it seriously when you operate a vehicle, Spencer said. Like its a vehicle, like its a weapon. That is whats happening in many cases.

Spencer referred to Corey McBride, a firefighter for the St. Louis Fire Department, who died in a crash last Saturday in north St. Louis.

McBride, 47, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the other car initially fled the area but later turned himself in to police the following day.

Charges, so far, have not been issued in relation to 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 FOX 2.
Globally, measles is on the rise across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, South America and parts of Europe. In 2025, North and South America saw 11 times more cases than during the same period last year. In Europe, measles rates are at their highest point in 25 years.

In the U.S., as of May 2, 2025, health authorities have confirmed 935 cases of measles affecting 30 states. This is a huge surge compared with the 285 cases reported in 2024. A large measles outbreak is happening in Canada, too, with over 1,000 cases.

The Conversation asked Rebecca Schein, a specialist in pediatric infectious diseases, to explain what this spike at home and abroad might mean for a disease that was declared eliminated from the U.S. in 2000.

How do measles cases this year compare with previous years?

From 2000 to 2010, less than 100 measles cases were reported each year in the U.S. Since 2010, there have been isolated outbreaks, mainly in unvaccinated communities, with approximately 200 to 300 cases a year. The latest major outbreak in the U.S. was in 2019, with 1,274 cases, primarily in the New York City metropolitan area and parts of New Jersey.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cases fell in 2020 to 2023 during the COVID-19 pandemic, returning to prepandemic levels in 2024. Currently, most U.S. cases are coming from an epidemic in Texas, with 702 confirmed cases as of May 6. Of these, 91 people were hospitalized and three people, two of them children, died. Measles cases are still being reported. Texas is one of 12 measles outbreaks documented in the U.S. in 2025 to date.

The World Health Organization has declared both North and South America to be at high risk for measles. Canada reported a total of 1,177 cases as of April 19, with 951 of them linked to an outbreak that began in New Brunswick in October 2024 and spread to seven provinces. In 2023, there were 12 measles cases in all of Canada.

Mexico reported 421 confirmed measles cases as of April 18, and another 384 cases are under investigation. There are also small measles outbreaks in South America, with Belize reporting its first two cases since 1991. Brazil reported five cases, and in Argentina there are 21 confirmed cases of measles, mainly in the capital city of Buenos Aires.

In Europe, measles cases rose tenfold, hitting 35,212 in 2024, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.

How did the US eliminate measles?

Measles is one of the most contagious infections ever identified. One person with measles can spread the infection to 12 to 18 others. That number, which epidemiologists call R0, is 1 to 4 for the flu and 2 to 5 for COVID-19.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 1912, measles became a nationally reportable disease tracked by all the health departments in the U.S. At that time, there were about 3 million to 4 million cases and 6,000 deaths each year in the country. Medical care improved and the death rate decreased, but cases spiked to epidemic levels every two to three years.

It was not until 1963, when the first measles vaccine became widely available, that cases dropped dramatically. The current measles vaccine, which is called the MMR vaccine because it also includes vaccines against mumps and rubella, was released in 1971. In 1977, the U.S. government launched the National Childhood Immunization Initiative to ensure that school children received vaccination against polio, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, mumps, rubella and measles. Vaccination rates in children starting elementary school rose to 96% by 1981. Beginning in 1993, the Vaccines for Children program helped ensure that every child could receive vaccinations regardless of ability to pay.

Vaccination programs were a resounding success. By 2000, measles cases arising in the U.S. had fallen to zero, with infections occurring only in people who traveled abroad. That year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention declared that measles was eliminated in the country.

Why are rising measles rates so worrisome?

Measles is a virus, like the common cold. Unlike bacterial infections, which can be treated with antibiotics, viral infections are typically not treatable but can often be prevented through vaccination programs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Vaccination stimulates the bodys immune system to make antibodies to fight a specific infection. For most people, just one dose of the measles vaccine protects them from infection. The second dose helps ensure long-term protection. Measles is so infectious that 95% of the population must be vaccinated to protect the community, a concept called herd immunity.

A man holds a sign at a rally for science in St. Paul, Minn., on March 7, 2025. Universal Images Group via Getty Images

During the past 20 years, however, vaccination rates are decreasing globally, with an especially sharp drop during the pandemic from limited exposure to medical care. Aligned with this trend, measles cases in the U.S. have been rising. As a result, some infectious disease experts worry that measles is heading toward becoming a common infection again.

What happens if measles rates continue to rise?

Public health officials define endemic infections as being consistently present within a region. For example, the common cold and now COVID-19 are endemic in the U.S.

A higher-than-normal number of cases in an area is termed an outbreak. For measles, an outbreak is defined as more than three cases in a county or local area. When cases from an outbreak spread outside the local area, that is an epidemic, and if an epidemic spreads into many countries across the world, it becomes a pandemic.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The measles outbreak in Texas started in January 2025 as an outbreak in six counties and quickly reached epidemic levels, hitting a total of 29 counties and a count of 702 cases as of May 6.

A 2022 study used a computer algorithm to model the trajectory of measles cases in the U.S. given the drop in vaccination rates during the pandemic. If children who missed vaccines due to the pandemic do not receive catch-up vaccinations, and vaccine hesitancy continues at current rates, the study found, then 21% of U.S. children  about 15 million  will be vulnerable to measles over the following five years. That is well below the number needed to prevent measles outbreaks.

A study using a similar approach published in April 2025 found that measles is likely to become endemic again in the U.S. and predicted that the country could experience 850,000 cases over the next 25 years if vaccination rates remain the same. If vaccine rates decrease further, the study found, case numbers could increase to 11 million over the next 25 years.

What would it take to reverse the rise in measles?

Reversing this trend will require steadily increasing community vaccination rates. The April 2025 study found that boosting community vaccination rates by 5% would tamp down the increase in cases to between 3,000 and 19,000 over the next 25 years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Another epidemiological model that estimates measles spread, published in February, predicted that by intervening early in an outbreak with local health department support, measles outbreaks can be contained as long as 85% of the population is vaccinated against the disease.

That, of course, requires ensured ongoing access to free and accessible childhood vaccinations and restoration of the publics trust in measles vaccines.

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: Rebecca Schein, Michigan State University

Read more:



Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rebecca Schein 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.
Nashville is one of several cities that has sued the federal government over funding cuts that impact the ability to administer vaccines. (Photo by George Frey/Getty Images)

The number of measles cases is approaching 1,000 across 29 states, according to newly released federal statistics. Even as the outbreaks grow, more local governments are complaining that their efforts to combat measles with vaccination clinics have been shut down by abrupt federal funding cuts.

As of May 1, a total of 935 confirmed cases had been reported, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They were in Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia and Washington.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There have been three confirmed deaths, two children in Texas and one adult in New Mexico, all unvaccinated.

Metro Nashville, the combined county and city government in Tennessee, and three other local governments sued on April 24 over reductions in federal public health funding, saying the abrupt $11 billion in cuts nationwide forced Nashville to cancel vaccination clinics needed to combat this years measles outbreak. Colorado and a group of other states sued earlier in April, mentioning the impact of cuts on their ability to control measles, flu and other vaccine-preventable illnesses.

Others joining the April 24 lawsuit: Harris County, Texas, where Houston is located; Columbus, Ohio; Kansas City, Missouri; and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees union. They called the cuts a massive blow at a time where state and local public health departments need to address burgeoning infectious diseases and chronic illnesses, like the measles, bird flu, and mpox.

The funding cuts also forced Minneapolis to shut down clinics in March that had been scheduled to run through June, said Luisa Pessoa-Brandao, director of health initiatives for the citys health department.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last year the citys clinics served 501 patients with 1,475 vaccination shots, including against measles, she said. About 30% of children in the city are not fully vaccinated, much too high to ensure unvaccinated children wont fall victim to measles outbreaks like the current one, she added.

Theres fear and hesitancy about the vaccine, based on some of the misinformation out there, Pessoa-Brandao said. There are other factors  access [to medical care] and the COVID pandemic, which delayed people getting vaccinations. Were playing catch-up the last few years.

Stateline reporter Tim Henderson can be reached at thenderson@stateline.org.

(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.)
UNITED NATIONS, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Intensifying drone attacks in the Port Sudan area -- the UN humanitarian aid hub for Sudan -- are increasing threats to aid delivery, a UN spokesman said on Tuesday.

"Our humanitarian colleagues said they're deeply concerned by the intensifying drone attacks on civilian infrastructure in Port Sudan, in the east of the country," said Farhan Haq, the deputy spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. They already forced at least a temporary halt to aid aircraft operations.

Haq said drone attacks on Tuesday reportedly struck the airport area, a fuel storage facility and a power transformer. No UN personnel or facilities were directly affected by the strikes.

Xinhua reported from Khartoum that although no group has officially claimed responsibility for the drone attacks, the Sudanese military has blamed the rebel paramilitary Rapid Support Forces for the drone attacks, which started on Sunday.

Haq said the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that the latest violence poses a growing risk to the safety of humanitarian staff and operations, with flights of the UN Humanitarian Air Service both to and from Port Sudan on hold.

The spokesman said there were prolonged power outages due to drone attacks targeting power stations and facilities elsewhere in Sudan. He said they continue to disrupt civilian life.

"This is the case in Northern State, where a one-month power blackout prevented farmers from running electrical water pumps, leading to the destruction of more than 84 square kilometres of crops," Haq said. "In River Nile State, the targeted destruction of power infrastructure has led to severe water supply shortages."

Haq said that despite the violence, the United Nations continues to assist the most vulnerable people. In East Darfur, humanitarian organizations mobilized aid for 35,000 people in the town of Ed Daein who had fled from Khartoum and Al Jazirah states.

There's another threat to the displaced in Sudan.

"We are scaling up water, sanitation and hygiene efforts and public health outreach to curb the spread of hepatitis E," detected in Kassala State, the spokesman said.

In neighboring Chad, the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) is gravely concerned by the rapidly increasing number of Sudanese refugees crossing into eastern Chad. Nearly 20,000 people - primarily women and children - have arrived there in the past two weeks alone.

"This sudden influx reflects the escalating violence in Sudan's North Darfur region, particularly in and around El Fasher, which is triggering mass displacement," UNHCR said. "Refugees arriving in Chad report that over 10,000 people are still on the way, trying to reach the border to escape the violence."

A rapid protection assessment by UNHCR and its partners indicated that 76 percent of the newly arrived refugees were subjected to serious protection incidents, including extortion, theft and sexual violence.

The agency said that Chad already hosts 1.3 million refugees, including 794,000 arrivals from Sudan since the conflict began more than two years ago. While the country continues to show remarkable solidarity in hosting refugees, it cannot bear this burden alone.

UNHCR urges the international community to step up support for the response urgently. Only 20 percent of the 409 million U.S. dollars required to respond to the refugee crisis in Chad has been funded. 
A measles case has been reported in Wichita, Kansas, the first found in a suburban area. The first cases reported in the state have been concentrated in eight rural counties in the southwest. (Getty Images)

TOPEKA  The Wichita area reported its first case of measles on Wednesday, an announcement that moves this highly contagious disease out of rural southwest Kansas counties and into a major metropolitan area.

Kansas is now reporting 48 cases of measles, up from 46 last week, according to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment dashboard. However, that dashboard did not include the Sedgwick County case, which was reported online by the countys health department.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a notice posted on the Sedgwick County Health Department website, the agency said a case of measles was confirmed in an unvaccinated child between the ages of 5 and 10 years old. The last measles case in the county was in 2017.

We are working swiftly to identify the source of exposure and notify anyone who may have been exposed, the notice said.

Dana Hawkinson, medical director of infection prevention and control at the University of Kansas Health System, urged people not to panic if measles cases occur near them.

It is important to understand that currently our herd immunity for stopping the transmission of the disease is suboptimal, he said. It is due to an overall decrease in vaccination rates around our country and locally. However, it is important to remember measles is a disease of the unvaccinated.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is likely, given recent history, that there will be more cases in rural and urban communities, Hawkinson said.

This will then increase the probability that we will see more hospitalizations and possibly even deaths, he said.

Of the 48 cases reported by KDHE, 40 individuals werent vaccinated and one wasnt age appropriately vaccinated. In three cases, the vaccination status couldnt be verified, and four individuals were age appropriately vaccinated.

To achieve herd immunity, 95% of people need to be vaccinated, according to the World Health Organization. Kansas tracks vaccination rates through county-level kindergarten surveys.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In Sedgwick County, the kindergarten vaccination rate for the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine was 94% in in the 2022-23 academic school year and dropped to 91% the next year. The countys overall vaccination rate, showing vaccines required for kindergarten, was 86% in the 2023-24 school year.

One in five people with measles has a high risk of hospitalization, 1 in 20 will get pneumonia by either the measles virus itself or secondary bacterial pneumonia, and one in 1,000 patients with measles will die, Hawkinson said. Lifelong health impacts are also possible.

We need to remember that infectious diseases do not adhere to boundaries nor specific demographics, he said. Measles is the same. The demographic which it tends to adhere to is the unvaccinated demographic.

Hawkinson encouraged anyone who can get vaccinated to do so because measles is not a benign disease and there is no treatment.

There is prevention, and that prevention is a time-tested vaccine which has shown to be safe and effective against measles and its complications, he said. We have decades of abundant, very high-level data and evidence to support the extreme safety and effectiveness of the vaccine to protect against measles and its complications for the individual, and also to keep the community safe as a whole.
Medicaid recipient Emily Gabriella protests outside the U.S. Supreme Court as oral arguments are delivered in the case of Medina v. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic on April 2, 2025 in Washington D.C. Credit - Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images

As Congress eyes sweeping cuts to Medicaid, the health care program for low-income adults that serves about 20% of people living in the U.S., a new study has a sharp conclusion: cuts to Medicaid will cost lives.

The study, published in the National Bureau of Economic Research on May 5, tracked nearly 40 million people who gained Medicaid through state-based expansions under the Affordable Care Act between 2010 and 2022. It found that during that time, Medicaid expansions increased enrollment and reduced members risk of death by 2.5%.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

People who enrolled in Medicaid because they gained eligibility saw a 20% reduction in their risk of death when compared to people in states who could not access Medicaid, the study found. In short, Medicaid expansions saved about 27,400 lives between 2010 and 2022, according to the study, by Dartmouth economics professor Angela Wyse and University of Chicago economics professor Bruce D. Meyer.

It might seem obvious that expanding access to health insurance will improve peoples health. But academics have actually had a difficult time proving this, Wyse says.

This study really does a lot to advance our understanding of the magnitude of this relationship between health insurance and this really important health outcome, she says.

Read More: Trump Administration Cuts Funding for Autism ResearchEven As It Aims to Find the Cause

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Medicaid expansion saves lives because it allows people to see doctors and access preventative care, and get recommendations from doctors about how to improve their lifestyles, she says.

The study is one of the largest to date showing the health impacts on expanding Medicaid. It also found that gaining access to Medicaid reduced the chance of death across demographics.

Its conclusion is especially relevant as Congress seeks to cut $600-$800 million from the Medicaid program over the next decade. Though around 70 million Americans are enrolled in Medicaid, the numbers vary tremendously by state. Thats because the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, allowed states to expand Medicaid to more people, offering some funding for them to do so.

Forty-one statesincluding conservative ones like Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Louisianahave expanded Medicaid in the years since the 2010 passage of the Affordable Care Act. But 12 states have trigger laws in place that would automatically end the Medicaid expansion, or that would require significant changes to the program should there be reductions to the amount of money the federal government provides.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Potential cuts to Medicaid are extremely controversial; an April KFF poll found that 76% of the public opposes major cuts to Medicaid. Even some Republicans seem wary of approving cuts. In April, 12 conservative members of Congress wrote a letter to GOP leaders reiterating their support of Medicaid. We cannot and will not support a final reconciliation bill that includes any reduction in Medicaid coverage for vulnerable populations, the letter concluded.

The study also found that Medicaid is a relatively cost-effective way to save lives. It cost only about $5.4 million per life saved, which is actually relatively low compared to other interventions, Wyse says.

I feel pretty confident in saying that restricting Medicaid access is going to have the real human cost of having more people die than otherwise would have, she says.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Fact checked by Sarah Scott

Parents/Getty Images







Key Takeaways

A new report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) advises against gender-affirming care for trans youth.

However, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and other medical experts and organization continue to support gender-affirming care, emphasizing its role in the mental health and wellbeing of trans children and teens.

Evidence continues to show that gender-affirming care and supportive environments can help reduce rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation in trans youth.







The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently released a review about gender dysphoria and gender-affirming care for youth in America. The review was written following President Trumps executive order that calls on the federal government to stop supporting gender transitioning for children under the age of 19.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It's important to note that major medical organizations in the U.S. continue to support gender-affirming care for minors, including the Academy of American Pediatrics (AAP), who released a statement saying they are deeply concerned about this report and the impacts it may have on transgender kids.

Here, well take a closer look at this report, and what these policies mean for trans and gender-nonconforming kids and their families.

What Does This Statement Mean for Families?

The HHS explainer is a 409 page review titled Treatment for Pediatric Gender Dysphoria. In a press release, HHS said the reviewers found the benefits of gender-affirming medical care for minors to be very weak and that some gender affirming medical interventions posed significant risks to children.

The Academy of American Pediatrics (AAP) questioned the integrity of the report and its conclusions in their recent statement. This report misrepresents the current medical consensus and fails to reflect the realities of pediatric care, Susan Kressly, MD, president of the AAP, commented. AAP was not consulted in the development of this report, yet our policy and intentions behind our recommendations were cited throughout in inaccurate and misleading ways.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Molly OShea, MD, a pediatrician with Birmingham Pediatrics + Wellness Center, who treats trans kids, shared that even though the report was described as evidenced-based by HHS, over 2,000 studies were screened for inclusion in the report, but 99% were rejected from consideration.

Dr. OShea emphasizes that the majority of pediatric and adolescent physicians across the world continue to support gender-affirming care for youth. The reports recommendations are based on a tiny sliver of the peer-reviewed literature in the field and as a result does a disservice to transgender children, their families, and the physicians who care for them, she says.

Understanding Gender Dysphoria

The main topic of the HHS report is gender dysphoria, how it impacts youth, and what should be done about it. It's important to know that gender dysphoria is often misunderstood.

Gender dysphoria refers to the distress some individuals experience when their gender identity doesnt match their body or how others perceive them, explains Rebecca Minor, LICSW, gender specialist and author of Raising Trans Kids: What to Expect When You Werent Expecting This. Its not the same thing as being transplenty of trans people dont experience dysphoria all the timebut for those who do, it can be intense and debilitating, especially during puberty, she describes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Importantly, gender dysphoria is not a mental illness or a sign that something is wrong. The distress doesn't come from being trans, but from being misunderstood, misgendered, or prevented from living as oneself, Minor says. When kids are supported in expressing their gender and accessing appropriate care, dysphoria can significantly lessenand in some cases, completely resolve.

What Is Gender-Affirming Care?

Gender-affirming care is a broad umbrella term, and theres no one-size-fits-all, says Minor. Moreover, it typically begins with non-medical interventions, and doesnt necessarily ever include medical interventions at all. For kids and teens, it often starts with things like using the right name and pronouns, making social changes like clothing and hairstyle, and accessing affirming mental health support, Minor describes.

If medical care is part of a gender-affirming care plan, its typically introduced in a very careful and gradual manner, usually in collaboration with mental health providers, endocrinologists, and families, Minor emphasizes. In reality, gender-affirming care is thoughtful, thorough, and rooted in whats best for each individual, she says.

Medical interventions arent offered to young trans children, but may be offered closer to puberty. For adolescents, puberty blockers (which are known to be reversible) may be offered or necessary, says Prerna Menon, LCSW, a queer psychotherapist at Boundless Therapy, who works with LGBTQ+ teens. Later, hormone replacement therapy may be offered to older teens or young adults. Surgery is rarelyif everpart of a gender-affirming care plan for a minor, Menon says.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The narrative that minors are undergoing routine surgery is a myth, Menon says. Such procedures are wholly rare before adulthood and should only be done after extensive medical and psychological evaluation.

What Doctors and Therapists Say About Gender-Affirming Care for Trans and Non-Binary Youth

Doctors and therapists who treat trans and non-binary youth know first-hand how impactful gender-affirming care can be.

Gender-affirming care can change lives, says Minor. Ive seen kids go from anxious, withdrawn, and depressed to vibrant, engaged, and hopefuljust because they were finally given the space to be themselves, she describes. For many of my clients, its not about becoming someone elseits about shedding layers of shame, fear, or silence.

Dr. OShea agrees. I have a non-binary adult child and have cared for many transgender youth over the years, says Dr. OShea. She says that when children receive care from a gender-affirming doctor, their life journey is much easier to navigate. Gender-affirming care is all about creating a loving, supporting environment that allows the child or teen to be their authentic self.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The positive impacts of this care cant be understated. Affirming who they are and supporting their journey, wherever it leads, with all the available support will ensure the best possible outcome, says Dr. OShea.

How Gender-Affirming Care Supports the Mental Health of Trans People

Not only can gender-affirming care change lives, it can save them. Clients of mine have repeatedly stated that gender-affirming care saved their life, says Rachel D. Miller, PhD, LMFT, founder at Hold The Vision Therapy and a therapist who works with transgender youth.

Consider the mental health impacts of untreated gender dysphoria. Gender dysphoria can create significant distress for kids who experience it. The distress can manifest as anxiety, depression, low self-worth, and suicidal ideation and impact their school, social, and home lives, Dr. Miller describes.

Heres where the power of gender affirming care can be felt. As Trevor Projects 2023 Survey on the Mental Health of LBGTQ youth found, trans and non-binary youth who lived with people who affirmed them and respected their pronouns had lower rates of attempted suicide. Additionally, trans and non-binary youth who went to schools they described as gender-affirming had lower rates of attempted suicide.



Common Misconceptions About Trans Teens

One takeaway these experts want to impart is that there are a lot of myths out there about gender affirming care and trans teens in general.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A primary misconception I see is that trans teens are being urged into irreversible medical choices, says Menon. In the healthcare community I am in, and in my state of New York, this simply is not how the process works. Evaluations of trans and non-binary youth are comprehensive and thorough, and there are multiple assessments made before any medical inventions happen, she says.

Dr. Miller says that another mythand one shared in the HHS reportis that mental health providers are underutilized for trans and non-binary youth, and that therapy isnt an integral part of the medical decisions made for trans kids.

On the contrary, mental health professionals are typically the gatekeepers of medical interventions, says Dr. Miller. Medical interventions, again when used, traditionally come after mental health assessments and psychotherapy for the child individually and with their family prior to any decisions about medical options.

Lastly, theres a myth that being trans or non-binary is simply a cultural trendone that scores of young people seem to be "latching onto." But this is untrue. One of the most dangerous misconceptions is that being trans is trendy, a phase, or the result of confusion or mental illness, Minor says.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Minor wants families to know that being trans isnt a trend, and that trans kids should continue to be affirmed and cared for by experts with experience treating them. Being trans is simply one way of being humanand when teens are affirmed in their identities, we see improved mental health, not worse, she says.



Read the original article on Parents
Former president George W. Bush is not expected to attend a White House ceremony hosted by First Lady Melania Trump on Thursday, which will honor his late mother, Barbara Bush.

The event will mark the unveiling of a U.S postage stamp that will feature Barbara, a former first lady who was married to former president George H. W. Bush. Barbara died in 2018 at the age of 92.

George W. Bushs sister, Dorothy Bush Koch, is expected to attend the ceremony along with other friends and family, including Alice Yates, the CEO of the George and Barbara Bush Foundation.

Barbara Bush is being honored at the White House  but her son, the two-term former president George W. Bush, is not expected to attend (AFP via Getty Images)

But the 43rd president of the U.S., and his wife, Laura Bush, are not expected to attend, the Washington Post reported.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Independent has asked a spokesperson for Bush for comment.

It is unclear why George W. Bush is not attending the ceremony honoring his mother.

Much like other former presidents, George W. Bush has had a distant relationship with President Donald Trump  declining to endorse the Republican nominee in 2016, 2020 or 2024, despite being members of the same party.

However, the 43rd president congratulated Trump on his most recent win and attended the inauguration ceremony.

In the past, George W. Bush has made veiled comments about Trump, calling the political landscape a naked appeal to anger, fear and resentment in 2021 and condemning the January 6 attack on the Capitol.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump, meanwhile, has more publicly criticized George W. Bush. After the 43rd president condemned January 6, Trump accused him of being a hypocrite for getting the U.S. into the Afghanistan war, and then not winning.

Barbara Bush also reportedly did not like Trump, according to her biographer. Just before her death, Barbara said she no longer identified with the Republican Party, and in a diary entry, she said she viewed Trump as a symbol of greed.

Barbara Bushs stamp will be part of a collection of six other first ladies who have been portrayed on stamps. The latest addition was Nancy Reagan in 2022. Former first lady Jill Biden helped unveil that stamp and was joined by one of Nancy Reagans nieces  none of the living Reagan children or grandchildren attended.
Heres hoping Melania Trump is a pro at disassociating by now  because shes going to need it.

The first lady will host the unveiling of a U.S. Postal Service stamp dedicated to her late predecessor Barbara Bush, wife of the late President George H.W. Bush, this Thursday in the White Houses East Room.

But the events most significant invitee  former President George W. Bush is likely going to skip the event honoring his mother, two unnamed officials told The Washington Post.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Representatives for the former president did not immediately respond to HuffPosts request for comment.

First lady Melania Trump delivers remarks during the International Women of Courage Award ceremony in April. Chip Somodevilla via Getty Images

There will be a Bush on hand at the unveiling, the Post reports. Dorothy Bush Koch, George W. Bushs younger sister, is listed as a featured speaker at the event. Alice Yates, chief executive of the George and Barbara Bush Foundation, will also be in attendance.

No word yet on whether former first daughter Jenna Bush Hager will blab about all of this on Today, but, hey, keep your fingers crossed!

George W. Bush and his mother, Barbara Bush, at a Texas Rangers game. Rich Pilling via Getty Images

Although he attended both of President Donald Trumps inaugurations, George W. Bush has never endorsed Trump himself, declining to back his fellow Republican in both 2016 and 2024.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He also seems less keen to pal around with Trump than he does with the Obamas  who, unlike Trump and the Bush family, are Democrats.

Michelle Obama hugs George W. Bush as their respective spouses, Barack Obama and Laura Bush, look on during the dedication of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in 2016. Astrid Riecken via Getty Images

At a 2021 event marking two decades since the 9/11 attacks, Bush bemoaned that so much of our politics has become a naked appeal to anger, fear, and resentment.

Trump appeared to think the Texas Republicans remarks were directly aimed at him and snapped back in a statement saying that the younger Bush had led a failed and uninspiring presidency and shouldnt be lecturing anybody!

It should also be noted that neither of Bushs parents was a fan of Trump. George H.W. Bush declined to endorse him in 2016, opting to back Democrat Hillary Clinton.

In the 2019 book The Matriarch: Barbara Bush and the Making of a Dynasty, Barbara Bush reportedly considered Trump a symbol of greed. The book also revealed that she admitted before her death in 2018 that she didnt consider herself a Republican anymore.
Melania Trump is claimed to have spent less than two weeks at the White House since her husband was inaugurated.

The first lady, who has been notably absent from Washington during Donald Trumps second term, has spent fewer than 14 days at the residence since he took office 108 days ago, according to the New York Times.

Mrs Trump, 55, instead spends much of her time in Trump tower in Manhattan or in Florida, out of the prying eyes of the public in Mar-a-Lago.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We havent seen such a low-profile first lady since Bess Truman, Katherine Jellison, a historian of first ladies told the paper.

Mrs Trump has made just a handful of public appearances since January.

Donald and Melania Trump at the Popes funeral on April 26 - Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Europe

Asked on Fox News where she planned to spend most of her time this term, she 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. 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 Jan 20, you serve the country.

After travelling to Italy for the Popes funeral and making a brief appearance at the White House Easter egg roll, Mrs Trump will return in front of the cameras to unveil a postage stamp honouring former first lady Barbara Bush on Thursday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Administration officials say she is at the White House more often than the public knows.

She loves the White House, Paolo Zampolli, a former modelling agent from Italy who first spotted her in Milan in the 1990s, told the New York Times, insisting she loves the role of serving as our first lady.

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.
MOOSE, Wyo. (AP)  A 5-year-old bear that was a member of a well-known and beloved grizzly family in Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park died after it was hit by a vehicle, the same fate that befell his mother late last year, wildlife officials said Tuesday.

Park rangers found the body of the male bear, known as Grizzly No. 1058, about 125 yards (114 meters) from Highway 26 near the Buffalo Fork River on Tuesday. The bear was one of four cubs that emerged in May 2020 with their mother, Grizzly No. 399, who was often called the world's most famous grizzly bear.

Grizzly No. 399, who was beloved for decades by countless tourists, biologists and professional wildlife photographers, was hit and killed by a vehicle in October on a highway south of Jackson, Wyoming. Park officials used wildlife tags to confirm the relationship between the two bears.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Grizzly No. 1058 had been seen occasionally in the park since he was weened in 2022, but no sightings of him had been reported this spring. After he was hit by the vehicle, he made his way to a patch of willows, where he died.

Park officials said Tuesday he may have been dead for several days before his body was found.

At 28 years old, No. 399 was the oldest known reproducing female grizzly in the Yellowstone ecosystem. Each spring, wildlife enthusiasts eagerly awaited her emergence from her den to see how many cubs she had birthed over the winter  then quickly shared the news online. The bear had 18 known cubs in eight litters over the years, including the litter of four in 2020. She stood around 7 feet (2.1 meters) tall and weighed about 400 pounds (180 kilograms).

Named for the identity tag attached to her ear by researchers, the grizzly was often seen near roads in Grand Teton, drawing crowds and creating traffic jams.

The driver who struck and killed No. 399 was not speeding, and the bears death was ruled an accident. Park officials have not released any additional details about the crash that killed No. 1058.
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  The U.S. Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that the Trump administration can now enforce its transgender military ban. It comes after months of litigation, but the fight isnt over yet.

Active duty members and veterans told DC News Now the news is devastating, but theyll continue doing their jobs until theyre told otherwise.

The Trump administration has said that having transgender troops is harmful to military readiness.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump asks Supreme Court to allow ban on transgender members of the military to take effect, for now

In late February, the Department of Defense said transgender service members were to be removed within 60 days, in line with President Trumps executive order. Multiple court cases delayed that until Tuesday.

When the Supreme Court ruled, I and thousands of other transgender service members were doing our duty, said Space Force Col. Bree Fram. I was helping define the future of our militarys capability in space. And thousands of others were doing exactly what this government has asked of them.

Fram spoke with DC News Now in her personal capacity and stated that her views do not necessarily reflect those of the Department of Defense or the U.S. government.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We feel a bit unwanted, despite years of service and dedication to this nation, where we have succeeded based on our merits, Fram said.

Lindsay Church, a transgender Navy veteran and executive director of Minority Veterans of America, said its causing a lot of distress for trans service members.

People dont know where theyre going to live, whether or not theyre going to have a job, whether or not theyre going to have health care, Church said.

Church said lower court rulings have shown the ban isnt about merit.

If you cant find cases or reasons why transgender service members should be kicked out, you have to go into their medical records, it goes to prove a point that transgender service members are not a detraction or a distraction from our military readiness, Church said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: They are so incredibly resilient and capable: Transgender col. pushes back on Pentagon order to remove transgender troops

Fram said the policy will cause real harm while court cases play out.

Its a struggle to figure out  how do we move forward? But we are going to and until we cant, were going to put on the uniform and accomplish the mission, Fram said. I have served my nation in uniform for over 22 years. I do not plan for that service to end, whether in uniform or not.

The Department of Defense said Tuesday that officials are currently determining the next steps.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth posted on X Tuesday, No More Trans @ DoD.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During a speech before the ruling, he said, We are leaving wokeness and weakness behind. No more pronouns, no more climate change obsession, no more emergency vaccine mandates, no more dudes in dresses. Were done with that s.

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 | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
For Vincent Gratch, coming to the memorial in Walkersvilles Heritage Farm Park brings back powerful memories.

He was only 12 when his older brother Charlie died on May 6, 1981, in the crash of an Air Force EC-135 surveillance plane in a field near the town.

Charlie graduated from the Air Force Academy in 1978, and was serving as a mission coordinator on the flight, Gratch said.

Their uncle was a colonel in the Air Force, and Charlie had wanted to be in the Air Force since he was a teenager, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gratch was one of nearly two dozen people who attended an annual service at the memorial on the 44th anniversary of the crash Tuesday.

Being at the scene of the crash makes him feel a connection to his brother, he said.

I feel like Im at peace here, he said.

Jessica Lassetter was almost 2 when her father, Capt. Thomas Bayliss, was killed in the crash.

She doesnt have any memories of her father. Coming to the site is hard, she said.

But the anniversary ceremonies remind her that it was not just her family who was impacted by the event.

It feels like part of a community, she said.

The plane was on a training flight out of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The U.S. Air Force Advanced Range Instrumentation Aircraft (ARIA) program that the plane was a part of was designed to support the Apollo space program, and was later reassigned to track various types of missile tests.

The flights usually took four to five hours, and would often follow a flight path from the base in Ohio to the Washington area and back, said Jeff Bressler, a former master sergeant who served in the ARIA program.

Bressler had been scheduled to be on the training flight, but was switched to a different assignment the day before.

He was on the flight line at Wright-Patterson when news came of the crash.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It didnt strike me [at first] as our plane, he said.

The base command quickly closed the flight line and called everyone into a meeting to share the news of what happened, he said.

Bressler said Tuesday was the second time he attended a ceremony at the Walkersville site, but he attended similar events in Dayton many times.

The crash shocked the base community, but also served as a source of bonding and support, said Bob Beach, a friend of Charlie Gratch, whose desk was next to his.

The wives of the families on the base quickly donated a grove of 21 trees to honor those who died, he said.

Among the 21 people on the plane were two wives of crew members, Peggy Emilio and Linda Fonke, part of an Air Force program for families to get a better understanding of what their family members did on the job.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The program came to an end after the Walkersville crash, Beach said.

Vincent Gratch said it is special to see so many people continue to honor the memories of the 21 victims of the crash.

That accident touched them all, he said.
BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) -- South China's Guangdong Province has introduced 30 types of artificial intelligence (AI) application scenarios, according to the Science and Technology Daily on Wednesday.

These AI application scenarios span four fields: manufacturing, education, health care and safety.

In terms of education, Guangdong has identified typical application scenarios for AI in five major areas: learning, teaching, experimentation, resource distribution, and assessment and decision-making support.

As for healthcare, the province has sorted out 10 typical application scenarios of AI in areas such as imaging diagnosis, clinical decision-making, surgical planning, outpatient triage, and medical consultation.

The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area boasts both mechanical and electrical technology as well as digital and intelligent technology, Qu Xiaojie, an official of the Department of Industry and Information Technology of Guangdong Province was quoted as saying by the newspaper. The area also has a complete industrial chain for AI and robotics.

The province will support the industrialization of technology, marketization of products and commercialization of services for the AI and robotics enterprises. 
LIBERTY, Ohio (WKBN)  Mental health experts want families to know there is help available for children struggling with mental health issues.

Staff at Belmont Pines Hospital say Mental Health Awareness Month is a good time to remind people about the local resources available for children. The hospital in Liberty provides level of care assessments, acute hospitalizations, and residential programming.

Experts say social media use is connected to an increase in self-reported depression in children and adolescents. In the past decade, the same population saw a dramatic increase in emergency room visits for self-harming behaviors.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A lot of underlying issues are media, said Dr. Pradeep Mathur. Social media is a big culprit [of] kids having a difficult time, being bullied in school, drug use  the other part is trafficking. We really dont talk much about it, but theres a lot of that going on too.

Experts say children are vulnerable, and encourage parents and guardians to be vigilant.

Monitor their social media use and access resources for them immediately, said Eric Kennedy, CEO of Belmont Pines. Children spend so much time alone consuming social media that they really need the adults in their lives to be monitoring them and watching for signs of depression or signs of self harm.

Belmont Pines is the largest freestanding childrens behavioral health hospital in Northeast Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. It takes care of about 2,400 children per year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
The judge presiding over Karen Reads trial granted a motion by prosecutors Tuesday to bar any reference to the death of a pregnant young woman who was murdered during a blizzard in Canton a year before the body of Boston Police Officer John O'Keefe was found in a snowbank in the same Massachusetts town.



In a filing this week, special prosecutor Hank Brennan argued that the fact that many of the same investigators who arrested Read also failed to arrest a fellow cop for the murder of 23-year-old Sandra Birchmore a year earlier, and instead ruled her death a suicide, is not relevant to the ongoing retrial of the 45-year who is charged with O'Keefe's death. Testimony about "this unrelated death investigation would result in a trial within a trial," Brennan wrote.



Birchmore's death was immediately ruled a suicide by responding officers from the Canton Police Department and state troopers assigned to the Norfolk County District Attorney's office, a determination that came before her body was autopsied by a state medical examiner. Birchmore's family was told by those cops - many of whom have been central figures in Read's trial - that teacher's aide had hung herself within hours of her body being found, despite information that the last person who saw Birchmore alive was a fellow cop, a police union official and married father of three that she told people was the father of her unborn child.

Former Stoughton Police Detective Matthew Farwell is charged with killing Sandra Birchmore, a case taken down by the FBI, and not the state, despite an investigation into her death by the same officers who charged ReadCourtesy Department of Justice

In fact, that police officer, Matthew Farwell, who allegedly killed Birchmore on Feb 1, 2021, was charged by federal prosecutors last August with hanging Birchmore and staging the scene to make it look like the pregnant woman had taken her own life.



Judge Beverly J. Cannone, who is overseeing Read's retrial in connection with O'Keefe's death after her first trial ended in a hung jury, sided with Brennan and banned Los Angeles based defense attorney Alan Jackson from mentioning Birchmore's case, which was solved by the FBI, not the Norfolk County D.A.'s investigators, "unless door is opened.



The ruling came just days after testimony about the FBI visiting witnesses in the Read case was brought to light in Jackson's cross examination of Jen McCabe, the prosecution's star witness. McCabe admitted that she misidentified herself to agents who came to her Canton home. She also testified that when they said they were the FBI she went inside and called five people: her husband Matthew McCabe; Kerry Robert, another witness against Read; a Norfolk County D.A.'s office witness advocate; O'Keefe's mother Peggy, and Brian Albert, her brother-in-law who was a Boston Police sergeant when John O'Keefe's body was found on the Alberts lawn.



McCabe didn't tell the FBI she called Albert, Peggy O'Keefe, or the Norfolk County D.A.s office in the ten minutes before she agreed to let them - briefly - into her home in April 2023, the same year federal prosecutors say they opened up the then cold case into Birchmore's purported suicide taking a hard look at Farwell.

Law enforcement sources who were part of that investigation said that private detectives were following Farwell in 2023 in an attempt to get his DNA to prove he was the father of her unborn child. And, the sources say, he knew it. "We were going through the trash and he didn't get rid of anything with his DNA," one told Los Angeles. "This guy didn't throw a Dunks cup in the trash."



Canton Police Sergeant Michael Lank, who McCabe testified repeatedly in Read's trial was her friend, was among the first cops to respond to Birchmore's Canton home on February 4, 2021 when she didn't show up to work after a Nor'easter. She was lying in her bedroom with a duffle bag strap around her neck, which led them classify her death as a suicide, despite significant evidence to the contrary.



Birchmore's activities hardly suggested she was planning to end her life. In the days before her death, shed planned her pregnancy announcement for Valentines Day, as well as the gender reveal, and made an OB-GYN appointment for a few weeks out. She even arranged for someone to watch her beloved two cats, Midnight and Lily, around her due date.

Sandra Birchmore's beloved cats Midnight (foreground) and Lily (background)Birchmore Family

On Feb. 1, Birchmore texted Farwell about a baby gift that had been delivered to her Canton apartment and then shared her excitement for a March baby shower. She ordered DoorDash delivery, picked it up in the lobby at 5:01 p.m., according to security surveillance at her apartment building, and briefly went outside to scrape snow off her car, returning at 5:33 p.m.



The last activity on her phone came when Farwell texted her at 9:08 p.m., wanting to know if he could come by for a second, according to an FBI affidavit reveals. Two minutes later, she texted him back that the door would be open. Four minutes after that, security footage captured Farwell, wearing a hoodie and a face mask, entering Birchmores building. Her cell phone cataloged her final steps at 9:40 p.m. Three minutes later, at 9:43 p.m., cameras recorded Farwells speedy exit.

Matthew Farwells wife gave birth to their third child just hours after he allegedly murdered Sandra Birchmore and is wearing the same clothes.Courtesy of The Case Podcast

The judge's ruling in Read case came the same day Farwell was slated to make an appearance in a Boston federal courtroom. That hearing was pushed to July, one in a series of delays in the case that has seen almost no court filings from federal prosecutors or Farwell's defense attorneys.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Farwell met Birchmore when she was a child who enrolled in the Police Explorer's Program in partnership with the Stoughton Police Department, which neighbors Canton. There she met Farwell and his twin brother William, both police officers, along with Robert Devine, another cop on the department. All three men stand accused of having inappropriate sexual relationships with Birchmore - often on duty - and have been removed from the police force. Matthew Farwell, federal prosecutors say, took Birchmore's virginity when she was 15, which is statutory rape in Massachusetts.

Jackson wanted to introduce the Birchmore case to point out that the state's case against Read included cell phone data extracted by state trooper Nicholas Guarino who is expected to take the stand again in the Read case. Guarino, according to an internal affairs report ordered by Stoughton Police Department officials, missed thousands of incriminating text messages taken from Farwell's phone. Those messages, federal prosecutors say, suggested Detective Matthew Farwell engaged in "sexual violence," federal prosecutor say, against Birchmore and had shared pedophilic fantasies with her in writing.
princeton  Seeing the daily cost of housing an inmate jump by $12 is leading to a special Mercer County Commission meeting Thursday about how to keep the countys regional jail bill paid until the fiscal year ends this July.

The Mercer County Commissions special meeting starts at 2 p.m., Thursday at the county courthouse. The commission will discuss the regional jail bill for April 2025 and the Glenwood Lake Dredging Project.

Last March, the West Virginia Regional Jail system was holding 163 Mercer County inmates. In April, there were 129 county inmates. The daily cost of keeping each inmate started growing in April when an increase the Legislature passed in March 2023 went into effect, County Commission President Bill Archer said Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Because of the increases, the jail bill has gone up astronomically, Archer said.

In March, the countys jail bill was $127,474.81. By April, it had grown to $146,985.60, according to county records.

So its just been climbing constantly and were having to look at some of the potential other funds in order to be able to do it, Archer said.

Archer flipped through an inmates list.

Its all the people from around this area whether it was inmates taken in from the state police, from the county deputies and both the cities of Princeton and Bluefield, he said. The county is responsible for those inmates. I understand its a major increase but they (regional jail authority) are having space challenges there and that kind of thing and, of course, they went through that lawsuit of the inmates against the regional jail system.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The special meeting is for discussing how the county commission can pay the jail bill until the current fiscal year ends on June 30. Archer said a recent settlement in an antitrust lawsuit between West Virginia and a drug manufacturer could provide extra funding.

Mercer County was among the counties and municipalities across West Virginia that shared nearly $3.5 million raised as part of a settlement agreement involving the cholesterol drug Lipitor, according to West Virginia Attorney General J.B. McCuskey announced May 1.

The settlement was from an antitrust lawsuit against Pfizer Inc. and related companies and Ranbaxy Inc. The lawsuit alleged the two companies conspired to delay the introduction onto the market of a cheaper generic version of Lipitor for 20 months. Lipitors original patent expired on March 24, 2010.

Mercer County received $50,000 from the settlement. Raleigh County also received $50,000 from the settlement while McDowell County and Fayette County each received $30,000.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Unlike funds raised by West Virginias settlements with opioid manufacturers, counties have flexibility with how they spend their Pfizer settlements, Archer said. This means the funds could help cover the countys jail expenses for the rest of the fiscal year.

Adjusting the countys budget is on the commissions May 13 meeting agenda. The budget is still being compiled Tuesday.

Its really difficult times and that kind of hit us, Archer said about the jail bill. Thats expected, but unexpected in how draconian it is. Thankfully weve got good people in the county clerks office who are constantly looking at the funds we have coming in and constantly looking at ways we can make adjustments so we can meet our requirements. Its a day-to-day right now. Were having to clamp down on stuff. This is a challenge; again, well talk about that next Tuesday.

Contact Greg Jordan at

gjordan@bdtonline.com
Former German chancellor Angela Merkel has said she hopes the next pope will continue the course chartered by Francis, as cardinals are gathering in Rome to elect a new leader of the Catholic Church.

Merkel, who grew up the daughter of a Protestant pastor, told Cologne-based Catholic radio station Domradio that "it would be nice if some continuity would be created."

She said she hoped the "next encyclical could also deal with the common goods or if this course that [Francis] has set of a pope who is close to humanity were simply continued."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A papal encyclical is a letter written by a pope to bishops.

In his last encyclical letter published in October, late pope Francis wrote about "The human and divine love of the heart of Jesus Christ," according to the document published by the Holy See.

Previous topics covered by him in encyclicals include "Fraternity and social friendship," and "On care for our common home."

Merkel, who is a member of Germany's centre-right Christian Democrats, described Francis as a very political pope who also radiated an "original piety" and made it very easy for people to develop trust in God.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The late pope approached everyone with open arms which had been very reassuring, the former German chancellor said.

She described Francis' predecessor, Benedict XVI as much more formal in theological terms.

"When it came to pope Francis, I didn't get the impression that it was about knowing certain things particularly well, but rather that he took people as people," Merkel, 70 said, adding that personally she found this approach very appealing.
By Benoit Van Overstraeten, Andreas Rinke and Anna Koper

BERLIN/PARIS/WARSAW (Reuters) -Germany's new chancellor Friedrich Merz signalled a new start in relations with European partners France and Poland, but there were signs of tough discussions ahead on thorny issues like illegal migration and defence financing.

Wednesday's trip came a day after the conservative was sworn in on a promise to restore German leadership in Europe after years of infighting within former Chancellor Olaf Scholz's three-way coalition and its eventual collapse.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During his campaign, Merz criticized Scholz for neglecting Germany's ties with its largest neighbours, even as his promise of aggressive new border controls unnerved both governments.

In Paris, appearing alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, Merz said greater European unity was essential to make Europe more secure and competitive and that a Franco-German defence and security council would be strengthened.

"We will only be able to meet these challenges if France and Germany stand even more closely together than in the past," he said. "That is why Emmanuel Macron and I have agreed on a new Franco-German push for Europe."

Merz, like Macron a more mercurial personality than Scholz, hails from the far west of Germany, a region where ties to France are traditionally stronger than in Scholz's native Hamburg.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hours later, standing with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk in Warsaw, Merz lavished praise on Germany's eastern neighbour for its important military role on NATO's eastern flank and its support for Ukraine.

But clear differences remained. Tusk, mindful of a presidential election next week in which anti-immigration sentiment is likely to play a big role, voiced careful criticism of Merz's plan to turn away some immigrants at the border.

"There can be no impression that anyone, including Germany, would like to send any groups of immigrants to Poland," he said. "Poland will not accept this."

While Paris is a traditional early port of call for new chancellors, the trip to Warsaw reflects Poland's increasing influence in European politics because of its centrality in rallying support for Ukraine against Russia's three-year-old full-scale invasion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

DIFFERENCES WITH FRANCE

With France, differences also remain, in particular on the question of an EU trade deal with South America's Mercosur bloc, which Paris has resisted.

"I know there are still some points France wants addressed in regard to these agreements, but I believe these are individual matters that do not call the whole into question," Merz said.

He also said it was too early to say whether Germany might provide security guarantees to Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire - something on which Macron has been more bullish.

"We simply don't know the conditions yet," he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Merz has however appeared more receptive than Scholz to French proposals on European strategic autonomy and common defence, in part due to the uncertainty U.S. President Donald Trump has cast over ties with Washington.

Macron said Paris and Berlin would accelerate joint programmes to develop new defence capabilities that go beyond combat tanks and long-range missiles.

Merz secured a historic fiscal package before taking office that would let his government dramatically increase borrowing to finance defence spending.

In Warsaw, Merz said he remained sceptical about the idea of Europe collectively borrowing to finance defence spending - something Poland has called for - though he did not rule it out.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But he hinted that military spending could be exempted from the fiscal rules that are binding on EU member states, in an echo of the German package.

BUMPY START

The trip comes after a bumpy start for Merz, who on Tuesday failed in his first bid to win parliamentary confirmation as chancellor, dampening hopes the coalition of his conservatives and Social Democrats might prove more harmonious than Scholz's government.

Merz has vowed to ensure his government speaks with one voice on the global stage after years in which Scholz and his top ministers often appeared to have differing agendas.

For the first time in decades, the chancellery and the foreign ministry will be run by the same party. Merz wants also to establish a national security council in the chancellery to coordinate foreign, development and defence policy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I would hope for some common leadership in Europe," a Polish government source told Reuters. "Germany has been somehow missing in these discussions in the past."

Merz told state broadcaster ZDF late on Tuesday he would also speak with Macron and Tusk about adopting a tougher European migration policy. The incoming coalition has agreed to reject asylum seekers at Germany's land borders but promised to coordinate with nervous European neighbours.

(Reporting by Thomas Escritt, Sarah Marsh, Andreas Rinke, Kirsti Knolle and Rachel More in Berlin, Michel Rose, Benoit Van Overstraeten and Richard Lough in Paris and Alan Charlish in Warsaw; Editing by Cynthia Osterman, Ed Osmond and Rosalba O'Brien)
Less than 24 hours after taking office, Germany's new Chancellor Friedrich Merz met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk in Warsaw on Wednesday for two very different experiences on his first trip abroad in the new role.

Merz agreed with French President Emmanuel Macron on a "fresh start" for relations between the two countries with a view to strengthening Europe. This will involve new formats for talks and a work programme.

In Poland, however, Merz's plan to extend border checks and turn away asylum seekers met with massive resistance from Tusk. "Germany will let into its territory whoever it wants. Poland will only let into its territory those it accepts," Tusk said at a press conference with the new German leader.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tusk also rejected Merz's plan to tighten checks at the German-Polish border. "If someone introduces checks at the Polish border, Poland will also introduce such checks. And that simply makes no sense in the long run," he asserted.

Merz pledged to support Poland in securing the EU's external borders. He said he expected "good solutions" to be found on this issue. At the same time, Merz called for a joint European solution to limit illegal migration.

During the election campaign, he announced that he would reject migrants at the borders from the first day of his term in office. The coalition agreement states that this should be done in consultation with neighbouring countries. Poland, which is currently in the heat of a presidential election campaign, is now strongly opposed to this.

In an interview late Wednesday, Merz defended Germany's tougher migration policy with more rejections at the borders. The checks at the internal borders could only be a temporary measure, Merz told the broadcaster Welt TV.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"But they are necessary as long as we have such high levels of irregular migration in the European Union," he asserted.

Germany is a country in the middle of Europe that is among the most affected by this, Merz emphasised, adding that he had also told this to his counterparts in Poland and France.

In Paris, Merz received a warm welcome by Macron at the Elysee Palace, with both leaders embracing and patting each other on the back, before disappearing into the president's official residence arm in arm.

Merz, who needed an unprecedented two attempts to be elected chancellor by parliament on Tuesday, a historic stumble that some observers say may foreshadow potential discord within his own coalition, arrived in Paris eager to get to work.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Embarking on the trip the conservative politician had said he was aiming for "a bit of a restart" with Paris and Warsaw, Germany's two biggest neighbours.

In Paris, he and Macron, who is said to have struggled to get along with Merz's predecessor Olaf Scholz, set the course to strengthen their countries' leadership role in Europe in light of the radical change of course in US foreign policy under President Donald Trump.

"We will give new impetus to the Franco-German friendship and we will further intensify our cooperation at all levels," said Merz at a joint press conference shortly after his arrival in the French capital.

Europe can only overcome its challenges if Germany and France work together, Merz said. "That is why Emmanuel Macron and I have agreed on a new Franco-German start for Europe."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Macron addressed the German leader as "dear Friedrich" and thanked him for granting "me the honour of beginning your mandate here in Paris.

"We want action to be systematically developed together. We want to act together on the issues that we consider to be priorities: Sovereignty, security, competitiveness."

Merz, who considers himself a Francophile, is looking to restore relations with the French, and it was clear from the press conference that he and Macron get on well.

Immediately tackling an issue shunned by his predecessor, Merz said he is planning to quickly begin talks with France and Britain on how to organize Europe's nuclear deterrence in the future.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I see the fundamental need for us to discuss with France and also with the UK the question of how we can continue to provide such a response of deterrence together in future," Merz said, while stressing that he envisions a supplement to the US nuclear defence umbrella, not "a substitute."

Merz had met both Macron and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk several times before becoming chancellor.

As leader of the opposition, he repeatedly accused his predecessor of letting relations with both of them slide.

Merz was accompanied in Paris and Warsaw by new Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul. In a sign that Merz wants the government's foreign policy to follow a clear line, the chancellor and foreign minister belong to the same party - something that hasn't happened in Germany for almost 60 years.
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT)  Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, is speaking in favor of a bill in one Alabama House committee.

We make them wear helmets. We make them do  everything. We protect them physically in all kinds of ways, said state Rep. Chris Sells, R-Greenville. But when it comes to the internet and cell phones, we dont protect them at all, and this is what this is about.

That bill is about splitting apps into age categories for minor and requiring age verification for children who download them. Thats from ages 13 and below all the way to 18 years old.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Parents want a one-stop shop to verify their teens age and grant permission for them to download apps in a privacy preserving way, Meta said in a statement.

But Justin Hill with NetChoice, an association advocating for free speech on the internet, argued that permission should start with education, not limitation.

So we all agree on why, but we disagree on the how, Hill said. NetChoice takes a position to protect the internet  also to be a place of free speech and free enterprise.

Judge denies citys request to stop Alabama from signing Birmingham Water Works Board bill, at least for now

Hill said the bill takes parents out of the conversation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We wont see the results that we need to see, and I just need to remind you, many of our members, like Apple and Meta and Google, they are actively doing upgrades, Hill said.

If those members offer apps to minors without parental consent, the state could sue them under the bill. Melea Stephens, marriage and family therapist in Birmingham, said its not about free speech.

Children are exploited through some apps. Stephens is also a part of the National Center on Sexual Exploitation.

I work with local law enforcement on these cases, and theyre very heartbreaking, Stephens said. So thats one reason Im so passionate about this measure because it would go a long way to changing the atmosphere of the digital landscape that our children are growing up in in Alabama.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bill did not receive a vote in committee Tuesday. Lawmakers said they want to keep working together on the effort and figure out what is best for the state.

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.
METAMORA, Ill. (WMBD)  More than ten graduating seniors from Metamora Township High School were honored with a special signing day in the school gym on Tuesday.

The ceremony specifically recognizes students entering the trades, military service, and educational career pathways.

Grayce Wolven will be majoring in child life studies at Missouri State University and said it was nice to be part of something normally only done by athletes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It really just shines a light on people when otherwise there isnt one. So, it gives them the opportunity to showcase what theyre passionate about, she said.

She was also grateful for high school faculty members helping guide her to where she is.

I got to hear from a lot of influential people who led me to where Im going. Without them, I wouldnt be where I am today, she said.

Addisyn Wood will be attending Illinois State University to study elementary education. She also credited her high school experience as to why she wants to become a teacher.

The teachers and the environment really made me want to go into education, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The high school also highlighted its partnership with Advanced Technology Services, which is where some of the recognized students will be working after graduation.

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.
(NewsNation)  A Mexican mayor has been arrested amid an investigation into cartel operations, according to multiple reports.

Teuchitlan Mayor Jose Murguia Santiago denies any involvement with the Jalisco New Generation cartel despite allegations of collusion, per the BBC.

The outlet reported that bone fragments, clothing items and hundreds of shoes were found at the Izaguirre Ranch when activists went looking for missing relatives. It was later confirmed to be a training site of the cartel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Border Patrol chief says we will not back down from the cartel

If they want to investigate me, let them, Im clean and willing to say what I know, Santiago said to local media prior to his arrest.

As cited by the BBC, Mexicos attorney general said there was no evidence the ranch had been used as something of a cremation site, but investigations are still ongoing.

Border Patrol ready for possible onslaught from cartel: Exclusive

Mike Banks, the Border Patrol chief, told NewsNation exclusively that his agency is ready for a possible onslaught from the cartel, even though there have been record-low border crossings and decreased fentanyl seizures.

Banks said that as the United States puts more security along the southern border, they have seen more traffic being pushed to the coast. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem has the Coast Guard and destroyers monitoring and patrolling those areas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

$5M in drugs seized at South Texas port of entry, CBP says

Fentanyl seizures across March and April only totaled 1,371 pounds, despite it being 21,900 pounds during the last fiscal year. It is the first time in almost three years that any month has had less than 1,000 pounds of fentanyl seized.

Due to the countrys improved security at the border, Banks said the cartels want to traffic fentanyl and other narcotics into other areas, like Canada, Central and South America and Europe.

Instead of being pushed north into the United States, theyre looking for new markets, because were closing the market on the United States, Banks said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
SUVA, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Fiji and Tonga are taking bold steps to enhance trade, investment, and regional cooperation that could significantly influence the Pacific's economic landscape.

Fiji's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade Manoa Kamikamica is in Tonga to attend the Fiji-Tonga Business Mission, which opened in Nukualofa on Tuesday.

Hosted by the Tonga Chamber of Commerce, the event brought together business leaders and government officials from both nations to explore collaboration.

Tonga Chamber president Sam Vea affirmed the Kingdom's readiness to build stronger, long-term business partnerships with Fiji.

Highlighting the importance of the relationship, Kamikamica noted that Tonga is currently Fiji's largest export market in the Pacific, with over 161 million Fijian dollars (around 71 million U.S. dollars) in exports recorded last year.

Fiji also stands as the fourth largest exporter to Tonga, a partnership poised for deeper engagement.

The two countries are committed to expanding bilateral trade, improving digital connectivity, and boosting regional resilience through strategic economic diplomacy.

The Business Mission is jointly supported by Investment Fiji and the Tongan Ministry of Trade and Commerce. 
WASHINGTON, D.C.  Four Mexican nationals, unlawfully residing in the United States, have been charged for their roles in an international human smuggling conspiracy that illegally brought aliens across the Canadian border to the United States for profit.

Edgar Sanchez-Solis, 23, unlawfully residing in Kansas City, Kansas; Ignacio Diaz-Perez, 35, unlawfully residing in Oakwood, Georgia; Samuel Diaz-Perez, 26, unlawfully residing in Dublin, Ohio; and Salvador Diaz-Diaz, 32, unlawfully residing in Columbus, Ohio, were charged by indictment with conspiracy to bring aliens to the United States and 25 counts of bringing aliens illegally to the United States for profit.

DANGEROUS CONDUCT

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to court documents, the four defendants were part of an alien smuggling organization that has been operating for the last two years in Mexico, Canada and the United States.

The four defendants, in exchange for money, conspired with others to smuggle hundreds of aliens per week from Mexico, Central America and South America through Canada into northern New York, including Franklin and Clinton Counties, as alleged in court documents.

The defendants were arrested at multiple locations throughout the United States and are currently detained. Diaz-Perez and Diaz-Diaz had been previously removed from the United States.

As alleged, these defendants illegally entered this country and then sought to smuggle hundreds of aliens per week to the United States from Mexico, Central America, and South America through the Canadian border, said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Departments Criminal Division.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The defendants instructed smuggled aliens to make testimonial videos touting the enterprises services. In reality, the defendants imperiled their human cargo and innocent American lives when they repeatedly engaged in life-threatening conduct, including multiple high-speed getaways from law enforcement.

TRANSNATIONAL CRIMINAL ORGANIZATIONS

The aliens or their family members paid thousands of dollars to be smuggled into the United States.

The defendants and their co-conspirators allegedly facilitated the illegal travel of the aliens from Mexico to Canada and then across the northern border, where they were picked up and driven farther into the United States.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This case demonstrates our relentless efforts to secure our northern border from the criminal organizations profiting from human smuggling and other illegal activities, United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said.

We are grateful for our partnership with Joint Task Force Alpha as we work to dismantle these transnational criminal organizations and make our North Country communities safer.

HIGH-SPEED CHASES

On multiple occasions members of the alien smuggling organization led local and federal law enforcement officers on high-speed vehicle chases along the U.S. northern border, creating a grave public safety risk, according to court documents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For example, in April 2023, smugglers allegedly fled the Burke Border Patrol Stations sector at a high rate of speed after setting off a border sensor. Border Patrol successfully stopped the vehicle and apprehended the smugglers, who were transporting seven adult aliens and three minors.

In another incident, in May 2023, the Clinton County Sheriffs Office used a tire deflation device to stop a van carrying aliens after it allegedly failed to yield to both federal and state law enforcement. The smugglers and aliens allegedly fled on foot after the vehicle was disabled.

As additionally alleged, in August 2023, a vehicle carrying aliens that was fleeing from Border Patrol drove into Plattsburgh where it drove erratically, passed vehicles in a congested traffic area, ran a red light and struck a motorist at an intersection. The driver and six illegal aliens fled the accident scene on foot but eventually were apprehended.

These individuals acted in blatant disregard of our nations laws, allegedly smuggling hundreds of aliens into the United States for thousands of dollars each, said Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Buffalo.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Theyre alleged to have repeatedly put the public at risk through dangerous vehicle chases with law enforcement further demonstrating their contempt for the law and safety of others. We work every day with our partners in the U.S. Border Patrol and are proud to support the security of our borders and uphold public safety in our communities.

JOINT TASK FORCE ALPHA

The investigation and arrests of the defendants were coordinated under Joint Task Force Alpha.

JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and other transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys Offices along the border.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Departments Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Office of Enforcement Operations, and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other partners.

To date, JTFAs work has resulted in more than 360 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 330 U.S. convictions; more than 275 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

These charges are a testament to the hard work of the men and women of the United States Border Patrol and its partner agencies, said Chief Patrol Agent Robert N. Garcia of the U.S. Border Patrols Swanton Sector.

The days of catch-and-release are over, and the reality is clear; if you attempt to enter the United States illegally, if you attempt to smuggle or traffic human beings, you will be apprehended and you will face severe consequences.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Galeotti expressed his gratitude to Joint Task Force Alpha, which is focused on combating human smuggling organizations, and its partners in this case, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Northern District of New York and HSI.

HSI Rouses Point and U.S. Border Patrol Burke Station led U.S. investigative efforts with substantial assistance from HSIs Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C. and CBPs National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force.

Trial Attorney Jenna Reed of the Criminal Divisions HRSP and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carling Dunham for the Northern District of New York are prosecuting the case.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and other transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Departments Project Safe Neighborhood.
MovementLab performs Weaving Landscapes inside the Daedalum inflatable sculpture made by United Kingdom-based artists Architects of Air for the PASEO 2024 festival in Taos. The Paseo Project was one of a series of New Mexico art groups that received notice of funding cuts from the federal government late last week. (Photo Courtesy of Doug Davis.)

An interactive arts festival, the production of the Wagner opera Die Walkure and a month-long celebration of jazz are just a few of the creative New Mexico endeavors whose funding the National Endowment for the Arts canceled this week.

The NEA, the nations largest funder of arts and education, sent emails late on May 2 rescinding grants issued in January, when New Mexico received 19 grants totaling more than $625,000. While the exact amount of canceled funding remains unclear, arts organizations confirmed to Source on Tuesday more than $100,000 in cuts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

State arts agency New Mexico Arts, which receives funding through NEA for its grantmaking, did not respond to a Source request for comment on Tuesday.

J. Matthew Thomas, the executive director and founder of the Paseo Project, has run the PASEO festival in Taos for the last 12 years. The weekend-long event in September features exhibits from multiple artists, often with interactive elements of light or projection.

Thomas said without additional funding to replace the $35,000 grant, he may have to cut artists from the show. He said he would appeal the decision and is trying to seek other grant opportunities, and remained determined the festival would happen as scheduled.

We will persevere, especially with the festival, he said. We may have to scale back, but art was built for this to react, respond and move forward.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Santa Fe Opera Director of Media Emily Doyle Moore confirmed in an email to Source NM that a $55,000 grant for this summers premiere of Die Walkure was terminated, and said the opera plans to appeal the decision.

NEA recipients in New Mexico said they were unsurprised by the withdrawals, noting the cuts to the National Humanities Council and threats to public media funding, but said they were perplexed by the rationale.

Unsigned emails announcing the cuts shared with Source NM offered no specific reasons for the decision, but instead included boilerplate language noting that the NEA is updating its grantmaking policy priorities to focus funding on projects that reflect the nations rich artistic heritage and creativity as prioritized by the President. Consequently, we are terminating awards that fall outside these new priorities.

The email also stated that prioritized projects would include elevating Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Hispanic Serving Institutions; celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence; foster AI competency; empower houses of worship to serve communities; assist with disaster recovery; foster skilled trade jobs; make America healthy again; support the military and veterans; support Tribal communities; make the District of Columbia safe and beautiful and support the economic development of Asian American communities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Source NM emails and calls to the media line at the NEA went unreturned Tuesday.

Tom Guralnick, the founder and director of Outpost Productions, which runs a performing arts space and hosts the month-long Jazz Festival, told Source he tried to ask for an advance of the $25,000 grant earlier this year, worried that it would be rescinded.

Tom Guralnick poses with an NEA Jazz Masters banner at the Jim Gale Back Hall Gallery next to a photo of famed jazz trumpeter Wynton Marsalis, who played at the Outpost as part of that program. (Danielle Prokop / Source NM)

The NEA declined Guralnicks request and then, late Friday, issued the withdrawal. Guralnick said the loss is nothing to sneeze at, but that the 19th annual festival will happen this fall regardless.

He also said he would appeal the decision, but worried about the future of the entire program, noting the recent White House Budget request to eliminate the NEA entirely.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They want everything good, gone, he said. How many people remember who was the mayor of Rome when Michelangelo painted the Sistine Chapel? Its the art that people remember; its the art that makes us a society.

Guralnick, who founded The Outpost 37 years ago, said the organization has received NEA grants for the last three decades, but said hed work to secure more support from foundations and individuals.

Well all do everything we can to keep things going, but the loss of the organization and the money and the attitude behind it that stifles creative arts is huge, it affects everybody, he said. It shows the government can control what happens, at least with the money they do have.

Some art groups remain in limbo, awaiting the fate of applications from last July. This includes 516 Arts, an Albuquerque nonprofit dedicated to contemporary art.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Executive Director April Chalay told Source NM currently the federal portal has no information regarding the $30,000 pending grant the gallery requested for a current exhibition featuring Native American photographers from New Mexico and around the U.S.

If the grant is rejected, it will most likely mean staff cuts at 516 Arts, Chalay said, and raises questions for the sustainability of art funding moving forward.

It used to be that if you were able to obtain federal funds and regularly retain federal funds, that was a stable, more stable grant revenue than, say, private foundations. But now this just throws that into question as well, she said.

AMP Concerts founder Neal Copperman said a withdrawal of a $20,000 grant means the event to host Vietnamese musician Van-Anh Vo will most likely be canceled.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its not going to be crippling for us, Copperman said. It just helps us do projects, like free shows at the local libraries who are bringing artists to schools.

While Copperman said the grant funding from NEA does not entirely impact his bottom line, he noted that the loss of the agency would trickle through art communities throughout the state.

He said the cuts to the arts reveal a bigger, existential threat to freedoms.

Whats frustrating and scary about the cuts is less about the direct impact that it has on my organization or arts organizations in general, its the processes that are being done across our communities at large, Copperman said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He called the arts the bellwether of the current climate.

While the arts are a target in this conversation, personal rights, immigrants rights, trans, bi and gay  and all other peoples rights in general  are all threatened, he said.

Other art groups speak out

New Mexico Art groups on Wednesday confirmed to Source NM additional grant cancellations, while others said they were attempting to find out about pending grants.

The National Institute of Flamenco, which requested a $70,000 grant for the 38th annual Flamenco Festival, was also notified May 2 about the grant withdrawal.

NIF Deputy Director Annie DOrazio said they will appeal the decision, and will continue the festival as planned from June 20 through June 28.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Festival Flamenco Alburquerque has been a cornerstone of Albuquerques cultural landscape for nearly four decades, DOrazio said in a statement. Flamenco is not just something we do; it is something we must do. It is a lifeline and a vital form of expression rooted deeply in this community.

ALMA, a mosaic art apprenticeship program, also confirmed the loss of a $65,000 two-year grant for a public art installation at the Valle Del Oro National Wildlife Refuge.

ALMA Operations Director Margarita Paz-Pedro said in an email that these grants are not easily won, writing the cumulative impact is: really disappointing and heartbreaking for the arts community in New Mexico.

Elena Higgins, co-founder and executive director at IndigenousWays, said the cut of the $30,000 NEA grant came just before the groups first film festival, held over the weekend.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Many attendees said it was life-changing, Higgins said. The festival was able to grow the kind of understanding among cultures that the current administration attempts to destroy.

Higgins said the IndigenousWays will need to seek additional private and community funding to address the gap.

We hope that groups losing funding and the public losing access to enrichment programs will join hands with us as we continue to do our important work, Higgins said.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

This story was updated following publication to include additional voices.
We want you at that table so that we can make it better, Health Care Authority Behavioral Health Services Division Director Nick Boukas told public health councils on Wednesday at a conference on May 7, 2025 in Albuquerque. (Photo by Austin Fisher / Source NM)

New Mexicos top adult mental health services official on Wednesday laid out a timeline for rebuilding the states systems for addressing mental health challenges, including substance use disorder.

At a public health conference in Albuquerque, Health Care Authority Behavioral Health Services Division Director Nick Boukas detailed how mental health treatment will change as a result of New Mexico enacting Senate Bill 3, known as the Behavioral Health Reform and Investment Act.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Boukas said his division will work with the Administrative Office of the Courts to divide the state into behavioral health regions and investment zones, each of which will identify five behavioral health priorities over the next four years.

The priorities will come from feedback from local communities, including local public health councils, local behavioral health collaboratives and advocates, Boukas said.

We want you at that table so that we can make it better, Boukas told the crowd gathered at the conference. We know that one size does not fit all.

Boukas comments came during the Community Collaborative Forum hosted by the New Mexico Alliance of Health Councils, at which hundreds of people  including state agency heads, state lawmakers and public health researchers  met in person and online to debrief this years legislative session and prepare for potential federal funding cuts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the recent legislative session, New Mexico allocated $4 million for health councils in the budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Lt. Gov. Howie Morales gave the events keynote address during which he said the funds mark the biggest ever investment of state funds in health councils.

Health councils advocates have struggled in recent years to receive funding from state lawmakers. Morales said when he was still a state senator, he remembers not all health councils were able to survive funding cuts the Legislature enacted.

I believe in preventative measures, Morales said. We can talk about all of the back-end issues that we deal with  crime, homelessness, substance abuse  but if we continue to invest like we just did, this $4 million, you work on it on the front end, the investment pays off in multiple ways.

New Mexico Lt. Gov. Howie Morales highlighted the $4 million allocated by state lawmakers for health councils in the budget for the upcoming fiscal year during a conference on May 7, 2025 in Albuquerque. (Photo by Austin Fisher / Source NM)

According to a timeline Boukas presented at the forum, last week AOC began providing HCA with monthly updates on the regional plans.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Monday, HCA hired Kristie Brooks, a former federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration official, as the states director of behavioral health transformation and innovation. Boukas said she will help him implement SB3.

She understands rural communities, tribal communities, behavioral health and how we make all that work together, he said.

By June 1, the Behavioral Health Services Division will provide AOC with behavioral health standards and service evaluation guidelines, according to the timeline, and by the end of this year, the states Medicaid program will establish a group of licensing boards to help streamline mental health providers credentialing.

Planning meetings will be public

SB3 repealed the old Behavioral Health Collaborative, which will be replaced with the new Behavioral Health Executive Committee, who will be responsible for implementing the new law, Boukas said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The executive committee will include the Health Care Authority cabinet secretary, the Behavioral Health Services Division director, the Medicaid program director, the AOC and the Legislative Finance Committee, he said, noting that AOC is vetting three behavioral health experts to also work on the committee, and their appointments will be announced soon.

The committee will hold meetings open to the public in Santa Fe and online every quarter, and report back to the LFC, Boukas said.

The Behavioral Health Trust Fund created in Senate Bill 1 will start paying out in July 2026.

The money must be equitably shared between each regions priorities; may be used for projects up to four years in length; may be used to cover people without health insurance; and up to 5% of it can be for emergencies like mental health services during disasters like wildfires, Boukas said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By June 30, 2027, the executive committee will find a responsible government entity in each region to write progress reports on gaps in care and services provided, and hand them over to LFC, according to Boukas timeline.

This isnt just a blank check thats going to go out the door, he said. We want to make sure were turning these into measurable outcomes.

Also on June 30, 2027, the states Medicaid program is expected to establish a universal behavioral health provider enrollment and credentialing process for Medicaid, according to the timeline.

Then on July 1, 2027, HCA will analyze gaps in behavioral health care to inform the regional plans, and then repeat the analysis every two years thereafter, the timeline states.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Boukas said he expects many regions to have the same top three priorities already found in health councils community health improvement plans: access to care, behavioral health and substance use disorder.

When Boukas asked the crowd if he was missing anything, someone shouted out, Housing!

Thats in here too, he responded. But we want you to tell us where we need that housing, and what type of housing. So we need you at this table, we want you at this table.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
Dawsons Creek and Boardwalk Empire actor Michael Pitt was arrested earlier this month on charges including sexual assault, criminal sexual act and strangulation, all involving four alleged incidents between 2020 and 2021.

The actor, whos since been released, pleaded not guilty to the crimes. Officers from the New York Police Department arrested the star on Friday over the alleged incidents, all involving an ex-girlfriend, according to media reports.

Court documents obtained and reviewed by TheWrap state Pitt, who was arraigned at Kings Supreme Criminal Court in Brooklyn, sexually abused the alleged victim by means of forcible compulsion. He was charged with two counts of first-degree sexual abuse, two counts of first and third degree criminal sex acts, two counts of second-degree assault, two counts of attempted assault and one count for second-degree strangulation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Representatives for Pitt declined TheWraps request for comment.

The New York Post, which first reported the news Tuesday, detailed that Pitt allegedly forced his ex-girlfriend to engage in oral sex with him and struck her with a four-by-four block of wood and cinderblock. The news outlet reports that all the alleged incidents happened within the actors Bushwick home.

Pitt was released on a $15,000 bail fee following his arraignment. He is scheduled to head to court over the matter on June 17.

In a statement to the Post, Pitts attorney Cary London said they look forward to proving his innocence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Unfortunately, we live in a world where somebody like Mr. Pitt  an accomplished professional who would never so much as contemplate these crimes  can be arrested on the uncorroborated word of an unhinged individual, London said. We look forward to proving his innocence through the evidence and not through the media.

The post Michael Pitt, Dawsons Creek and Boardwalk Empire Actor, Arrested for Sexual Assault appeared first on TheWrap.
Michelle Obama has revealed that she is undergoing therapy to help her come to terms with being an empty nester.

The wife of Barack Obama and former first lady said she was preparing for the next phase of her life, with the sessions including work on dealing with feelings of guilt.

At this phase of my life, Im in therapy right now because Im transitioning, you know? the mother-of-two told Jay Shettys On Purpose podcast.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ive finished a really hard thing in my life with my family intact, Im an empty nester, my girls are in  you know, theyve been launched.

Her daughters Malia, 26, and Sasha, 23, were children when their father won the presidency and both now live in Los Angeles.

Malia, who graduated from Harvard, is a writer and director whose debut short film The Heart was selected for the Sundance Film Festival last year.

Every choice Im making is completely mine

Since leaving the White House, Mrs Obama, 61, has remained politically active, speaking at last years Democratic National Convention in support of Kamala Harris.

She has repeatedly turned down calls for her to run for president, pointing to the strain her husbands eight years in office had on her family.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Instead, she said, she is more focused on life outside of public service and kicking old habits.

For the first time, every choice that Im making is completely mine, she told the British mental health podcaster.

I now dont have the excuse of, My kids need this, my husband needs that, or the country needs that. So how do I think about this next phase? Let me get some help, let me unwind some old habits, let me sort through some old guilt.

So, Im getting that tune-up for this next phase because I believe this is a whole other phase in life for me.

The former first lady has had to respond to speculation about her marriage - Marcus Ingram/Getty Images

I worry for people of colour in this country

Elsewhere in the podcast, Mrs Obama criticised Donald Trumps immigration policy, saying that decisions to deport people are fuelled by racism.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

My fears are for what I know is happening out there in the streets, she said. And now we have leadership that is indiscriminately determining who belongs and who doesnt, and we know those decisions arent being made with courts and due process.

Knowing that theres so much bias and so much racism and so much ignorance that fuels those kinds of choices, I worry for people of colour all over this country  that frightens me, it keeps me up at night.

The interview comes after speculation that Mrs Obama and her husband are having marital difficulties.

The Obamas have been dogged by divorce rumours after Mrs Obama opted not to accompany her husband to several high-profile events  including Mr Trumps inauguration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Addressing the rumours in an interview with Steven Bartlett, the British entrepreneur, last week, she said: If I were having problems with my husband, everybody would know about it.

I would be problem-solving in public, like, Let me tell you what he did.

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.
Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-Mich.) is set to host town halls in Detroit this weekend focused on the impeachment of President Trump, his office announced.

Thanedar last week announced he had filed seven articles of impeachment against the president  a long-shot move unlikely to get through the GOP-led House  related to issues including his tariff agenda, his treatment of journalists, the work of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia.

When Trump ignores the Constitution, Congress, and the courts, he is not fighting for America. He is tearing it down and endangering our democracy, the Michigan lawmaker said in his announcement, prompting a callout from Trump.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Today they did it again. Some guy that Ive never heard of  is he a congressman? This guy, he said  ladies and gentlemen, I am going to start the impeachment of Donald Trump, Trump said at a rally in the Great Lakes State to mark his 100th day in office last week. What the hell did I do? Here we go again.

Thanedars move appears as a signal of Democrats mounting frustration with the second Trump administration, as well as an effort to position himself as an outspoken resistance figure in the party. Hes serving his second term representing battleground Michigans 13th District, after easily winning reelection in November.

During the town halls set for this weekend, Thanedar is expected to provide an important update from Capitol Hill and outline his push to hold Donald Trump accountable, according to a release from his office.

Three Democrats asked to be removed as co-sponsors of Thanedars impeachment resolution shortly after it was announced, a signal that some in the party dont want to go down what would likely be a complicated path, as Republican support would be needed to win a vote on the articles.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The House votes on whether to impeach, and the Senate votes on whether to convict. Both chambers are currently controlled by Republicans.

Trump was impeached twice during his first term in the Oval Office. Both times, he was acquitted by the Senate.

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.
Roman Catholic cardinals convened in Vatican City's Sistine Chapel on May 7 to begin the process of selecting Pope Francis' successor, and among the "princes of the church" will be Detroit-born Cardinal Joseph Tobin.

Pope Francis died April 21 at age 88 and the College of Cardinals members were to enter the Sistine Chapel Wednesday morning for a first round of voting. The cardinals are tasked with selecting one of their colleagues to become pontiff.

Tobin is one of 10 Americans listed as cardinal electors by the Holy See Press Office. Tobin, 72, serves as the Metropolitan Archbishop of Newark, New Jersey.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Let us give thanks for his life, his witness, and his love for the People of God. And may we honor his memory by building a Church that reflects the face of Jesus  merciful, welcoming, and always near to those on the margins," Tobin said in a statement following Francis' death.

Tobin, USA TODAY reported, was a confidant of Pope Francis, who elevated Tobin to the College of Cardinals on Nov. 19, 2016. He is the first Detroit native priest to become a Catholic cardinal. Some reports have said Tobin may be a strong candidate to replace Francis, although others have not mentioned him as a likely choice.

Tobin is an advocate for immigrants who has defended the progressive, inclusive teachings of Francis. Tobin, has openly welcomed LGBTQ people into services, emphasizing the need for compassion over exclusion. He has suggested the church might, in the future, allow women to be ordained into the ministry.

Among other roles in church leadership, Tobin was appointed to the top Catholic court in 2021.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Here's what to know as the conclave gets underway in Vatican City.

What is a conclave?

"Conclave" comes from the Latin word conclavium. It means "a room that can be locked up," emphasizing the secrecy and confidentiality of papal selection process, USA TODAY reported.

Where does the conclave meet?

The cardinal electors will meet inside the Sistine Chapel each day.

What is the Sistine Chapel?

The Sistine Chapel takes its name from Pope Sixtus IV della Rovere (pontiff from 1471 to 1484) who had the old Cappella Magna restored between 1477 and 1480. Painter and sculptor Michelangelo famously painted the walls and ceiling of the chapel over four years.

What is a cardinal elector?

A cardinal elector is a voting member of the College of Cardinals, the church's most senior officials.

How many cardinals will take part in the conclave?

There are 252 members of the College of Cardinals, but only 138 cardinals will vote, according to the Holy See Press Office. Among those eligible to vote, 108 were chosen by Francis.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Because of reforms enacted by Pope Paul VI in 1970, cardinals who are 80 or older when the pope dies are excluded from the closed-door proceedings.

Watch a livestream showing conclave smoke

USA TODAY is livestreaming coverage of the conclave's first day between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. ET on Wednesday, May 7.

It will also be available on the USA TODAY YouTube channel.

What does the black or white smoke mean?

Cardinals will vote daily, with ballots being burned afterward.

The cardinals vote on the first day. After that, they take two daily votes. If no pope is elected after three days, cardinals will pray and discuss more.

Black smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney indicates no pope was elected in a vote, while white smoke demonstrates a choice has been made.

When does the papal selection process begin?

The process begins within 20 days after the papacy is vacated when cardinal electors meet in the Sistine Chapel and begin the secretive voting process.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Throughout the conclave, cardinals are under an oath of silence and forbidden contact with the outside world.

How will the voting for pope take place?

Here are the specifics of the voting process, according to the Vatican: Each cardinal writes the name of his chosen candidate on a ballot, folds it, holds it aloft and carries it to the altar in order of rank. The cardinal places the ballot on a plate covering a chalice and says, in Italian: I call as my witness Christ the Lord, who will be my judge, that my vote is given to the one whom I believe should be elected according to God."

The 10 Americans who currently serve as cardinal electors

Ten Americans are currently listed as cardinal electors by the Holy See Press Office, including Tobin. Seven others are listed as non-electors. Electors include (appointed by Francis in bold, including Tobin; the remainder were appointed by Benedict):

Raymond Leo Burke, 76 (Wisconsin)

Blase Joseph Cupich, 76 (Nebraska)

Daniel Nicholas DiNardo, 75 (Ohio)

Timothy Michael Dolan, 75 (Missouri)

Kevin Joseph Farrell, 77 (born in Ireland, he later held positions in the U.S., including in Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Texas)

Wilton Daniel Gregory, 77 (Illinois)

James Michael Harvey, 75 (Wisconsin)

Robert Walter McElroy, 71 (California)

Robert Francis Prevost, 69 (Illinois)

How long has Cardinal Tobin been the Newark archbishop?

Tobin was appointed Archbishop of Newark in 2017, after serving as Archbishop of Indianapolis from 2012 and 2016.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Since his elevation in 2017, Tobin has led the Archdiocese of Newarks Catholic community in worship and action, his website reads.

Where was Cardinal Tobin born?

Tobin was born in Detroit on May 3, 1952, and is the oldest of 13 siblings. He is the son of the late Joseph W. Tobin and late Marie Terese Kerwin.

His 12 younger siblings are Molly, Margo, Kathy, Jim, Ann, Patricia, Tom, Gerarda, John, Therese, Dan and Sara.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit-born Cardinal helping choose Pope Francis' successor at Rome conclave
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)  Michigan is now one of 18 states suing the Trump administration for halting the development of wind energy via federal directive.

Back in January, President Trump issued a memorandum that stopped the federal government from approving projects to develop wind energy projects that would otherwise require federal review. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel says this has led to projects being put on hold and even being stopped after construction had already begun.

While Donald Trump continues to spread falsehoods about renewable energy, the truth is that it is reliable, affordable, and supports thousands of jobs here in Michigan, Nessel said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lawsuit claims that the directive harms states efforts to secure reliable sources of energy to meet the electricity demand and reduce emissions. The attorneys general also claim that the order thwarts the states investments in wind energy and infrastructure to the tune of billions of dollars.

Nessel says 7% of the states electricity comes from wind, but utility companies have submitted plans to increase that number to 25% by 2035. However, she says the recent memorandum has disrupted these developments, making these infrastructure changes more costly.

The lawsuit also argues that the directive and its implementation violate the Administrative Procedure Act and other federal laws because they do not explain such a sudden change that is inconsistent with other directives for other forms of energy.

You can read the full lawsuit below:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

1_NY-v.-Trump_ComplaintDownload

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.
COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL)  Romance scams are a growing threat to those trying to find love in the digital age.

WRBLs Teresa Whitaker was joined by Sgt. Jane Edenfield of the Columbus Police Department to talk about the dangers of romance scams and how to identify them.

You can find the full interview 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 WRBL.
Middletown plans not to raise the towns property tax rate, but is considering raising the water usage rate by 8% and increasing the capital improvement fee by $2.50 per quarter.

The town has drafted a $4.21 million fiscal year 2026 budget, which is 4.6% higher than the current years budget of $4.02 million.

The draft budget currently shows an increase in both revenues and spending, and has a surplus of $501,275.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rebecca Stottlemyer, the towns financial officer, said at an April 28 budget workshop that the budget was pretty bare bones.

Burgess John Miller in an interview on Monday said the increased water usage rate and capital improvement fee will combine to give us additional income and revenue for our capital improvement program.

He said the capital improvement fee would be $57.50 per quarter, up $2.50 from this years budget.

Middletowns draft water and sewer operating budget shows a surplus of $577.

Miller said the town is considering raising the water usage rate and capital improvement fee because the current surplus, which is rolled into the capital improvement program, is not enough to do many of our projects that we have to do.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

So, what we had to do was to come up with something that would generate some more revenue, he said. This generates about $30,000 and so that will give us more revenue for those projects for maintenance and rehabilitation of the current system.

Miller said the majority of the towns residents use about 3,000 to 25,000 gallons of water per quarter. He said the majority will see an average increase of $12.34 per quarter.

He said the tax rate would not increase from its current 23 cents per $100 of assessed value.

There is no increase in the tax rate, but if your house is being assessed and the value has gone up, you will pay more in taxes, Miller said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said the towns revenue increased partly due to an increase of Middletowns share of income taxes from the county.

The town is in its second year of three years of property tax assessments, so we benefited from that, he said.

He said Middletowns spending has also increased because everythings more expensive, and while the town does not have a lot of new items in the budget, its just the cost of things and doing business thats really increasing on us.

Miller said that out of the towns capital project fund, which sits at $1.74 million, $1 million is for a new wastewater treatment center. He said the Maryland Department of the Environment is going to pay for its design through a grant.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In May 2024, the wastewater treatment plant was projected to cost $40 million, and the state Bay Restoration Fund would cover about $30 million. The town also requested $5.72 million from the federal government.

In March 2025, the projects federal funding was in jeopardy after money for the project was left out of a bill that averted a government shutdown.

Miller said the money for capital improvement projects shows that Middletown has done a pretty good job of trying to live within our means.

Were getting closer to living right within our means, and therefore not depending on growth to fund things, he said. And thats where we wanted to be.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The town is also considering adding a zoning administrator position.

At the meeting on April 28, Miller and the commissioners discussed, instead of adding the position, to split the duties between Robert Wilkes, the current town administrator, and JJ Hartner, the current town planner.

Doing so would add $10,000 apiece to Wilkes and Hartners salaries, bringing their salaries close to approximately $100,000 and $105,000, respectively.

Miller added that, although the budget is not final yet, it allows for a 5% salary increase for employees  3% for cost of living and 2% for merit.

Miller said state grants and the capital improvement fee help considerably to pay for Middletowns costly projects, including construction on Linden Boulevard, designing the Remsberg Nature Trail and improvements on the Harris property.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Town officials have said they want to create a public park out of the Harris Farm property, which was annexed last month, and hope to connect the walking trails to those of Wiles Branch Park.

He said a five-year plan to implement smart water meter conversions is costly. The town has already completed one year of work on that project.

Thats going to cost us almost $100,000 this year, $83,000 in subsequent years, until were done, Miller said.

Middletown is also discussing increasing the salary for crossing guards, which Miller said was a real conundrum for us.

We certainly value the program. We see the need for it, he said. Our problem is, we cant find people to do it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Miller said crossing guards currently earn $15 an hour, which could increase to $18 an hour. He said $20 an hour was also something that was floated out there.

Thats where we get up to $50,000 [per year], and then we might as well just contract it out to somebody ..., Miller said.

He said the commissioners would discuss the crossing guard pay before the budget is approved to see which option we would like to use.

Middletown is scheduled to have a budget workshop for the burgess and commissioners on May 27. The commissioners and burgess are scheduled to approve a fiscal year 2026 budget on June 9.




AFP: Tensions are escalating between India and Pakistan. Is China in contact with both sides to ease tensions?



Lin Jian: China made clear its position on the ongoing situation between India and Pakistan. China finds Indias military operation early this morning regrettable. We are concerned about the ongoing situation. India and Pakistan are and will always be each others neighbors. Theyre both Chinas neighbors as well. China opposes all forms of terrorism. We urge both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, remain calm, exercise restraint and refrain from taking actions that may further complicate the situation. We stand ready to work with the international community to continue to play a constructive role in the deescalation of the ongoing tensions.

Reuters: Its a follow-up on the escalation between India and Pakistan. Is there any impact on Chinese citizens there or on Chinese airlines that fly over the region?



Lin Jian: China is closely following the developments of the situation. We advise Chinese nationals and institutions in relevant regions to closely watch the developments, take extra safety precautions, avoid traveling to places involved in the conflict and, in case of emergencies, immediately contact Chinese embassies and consulates there for help.

Beijing Youth Daily: Not long ago, U.S. President Trump said on his Truth Social account that American Ships, both Military and Commercial, should be allowed to travel, free of charge, through the Panama and Suez Canals. Those Canals would not exist without the United States of America. Ive asked Secretary of State Marco Rubio to immediately take care of the situation. These remarks have recently met strong opposition from various sectors in Egypt. Whats Chinas comment?



Lin Jian: We noted relevant reports. Egypt has indisputable sovereignty over and right to manage and operate the Suez Canal. We firmly support the Egyptian government and people in defending sovereignty and their legitimate rights and interests, and oppose any acts or statements of bullying.

Shenzhen TV: According to Spanish media reports, the Spanish government recently released the Foreign Action Strategy 2025-2028, stressing the need to deepen Spain-China comprehensive strategic partnership. The measures taken by Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez to deepen relations with China are not for the short term but an important part of the road map of Spains diplomacy for the next four years. Whats Chinas comment?



Lin Jian: China appreciates the importance the Spanish government attaches to developing its relations with China and its continuous effort of advancing practical cooperation and people-to-people exchanges between our two countries. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez paid a successful visit to China not long ago. The two sides jointly issued the Action Plan for Strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and proposed to build a more strategically resilient and dynamic comprehensive strategic partnership. China and Spain also signed multiple cooperation documents on economic and trade ties, education and science and technology, and achieved major cooperation outcomes in new energy fields, including electric vehicles and battery. China stands ready to work with Spain to continue deepening open cooperation, especially practical cooperation in such fields as green development, artificial intelligence and digital economy, so as to bring more benefit to the two peoples and add more impetus to China-EU relations.

Reuters: Russia and Ukraine have launched air attacks overnight on each others capitals, which disrupted Moscows key airports for most of the night. How does China view this development?



Lin Jian: Chinas position on the issue of Ukraine crisis is consistent and clear. Weve all along been committed to promoting talks for peace and ending the conflict. Most countries in the international community are also playing a constructive role in their own way for the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis. The pressing priority is to avoid escalation of tensions, and relevant parties need to build consensus and create conditions for this.

Bloomberg: Earlier today China announced that He Lifeng will be going to Switzerland in part to meet with U.S. senior officials. Can you give us more details about what is Chinese expectations for those talks and also who will be accompanying the vice premier on his trip?



Lin Jian: Recently, the U.S. said repeatedly it wants to negotiate with China. This meeting is requested by the U.S. side.

China firmly opposes the U.S.s tariff hikes. This position remains unchanged. Meanwhile, as weve stressed many times before, China is open to dialogue, but any dialogue must be based on equality, respect and mutual benefit. To pressure or coerce China in whatever way simply does not work. We will resolutely safeguard our legitimate interests and uphold international fairness and justice.

CCTV: To follow up on the high level meeting on economic and trade affairs between China and the U.S., the U.S. recently has been hyping up that the high additional tariff is unsustainable for Beijing. Whats your response?



Lin Jian: No external shocks can change Chinas economic fundamentals with a stable foundation, numerous strengths, remarkable resilience and vast potential. Nor can they change the consistent trend of Chinas steady progress in pursuing high-quality development. China is highly resilient under pressure and has a full toolbox to defend our legitimate rights and interests, and stands ready to work with the international community to enhance solidarity and coordination, jointly oppose unilateralism, protectionism and economic bullying, safeguard multilateral trading system and uphold international fairness and justice.

CGTN: We noted that China and Zambia recently co-hosted a side event of the group of friends for international cooperation on AI capacity-building at the UN headquarters. Could you share more details with us?



Lin Jian: On May 6, China and Zambia co-hosted a side event of the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building at the UN headquarters. Representatives from more than 70 countries, including Russia, France, Brazil, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Ethiopia, as well as international organizations such as the United Nations and the International Telecommunication Union, attended the event to discuss the fair and inclusive development of AI.

President Xi Jinping emphasized that AI can serve as a global public good to benefit humanity. China will continue to engage in broad international cooperation on AI, help the Global South countries in strengthening capacity building, and contribute Chinas efforts to bridging the global AI divide. This month, China will also host the second Workshop on AI Capacity Building in Beijing, and we welcome broad participation from members of the Group of Friends.

Development is a universal right for all countries, not the exclusive privilege of a few. Any country with a passion for AI, aspirations for capacity building, and confidence in international cooperation can use the Group of Friends as a platform to build consensus and promote cooperation.

EFE: So what is Chinas view on Colombias plan to join the Belt and Road Initiative under President Petros upcoming visit?



Lin Jian: Colombia now chairs the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC). China is working with Colombia to actively advance the preparation for the Fourth Ministerial Meeting of the China-CELAC Forum. On your specific question, I have nothing to read out at the moment.

PTI: Just a few hours ago, India had an official briefing on the current conflict. They have made it very clear that the targets that were taken today in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir were mainly related to terror infrastructure. And this was also done because India has an additional information about new attacks being planned against the country. I would like you to elaborate on your position that youll work with the international community. Can you just elaborate on what kind of initiatives that Beijing is planning on that front?



Lin Jian: I answered relevant question just now and stated Chinas principled position. The international community is following closely what is going on between India and Pakistan. China is committed to promoting talks for peace and keeping the region peaceful and stable. We also noted that both India and Pakistan said they dont hope to see escalation of the situation. We hope India and Pakistan will remain calm, exercise restraint, work in the same direction and handle differences properly through dialogue and consultation. China stands ready to continue playing a constructive role in easing the current tensions.

Bloomberg: A follow-up to the trade talks. Previously, Chinas position has been that without the U.S. reduction or removal of the unilateral tariffs which got to 145 percent, China would not be willing to talk. Now China has agreed to talk without the U.S. removing any of those tariffs except for the exemptions that were announced a few weeks ago. Why has China changed its negotiating stance? And is your expectation for the meeting that both sides will reduce tariff rate?



Lin Jian: As I just said, there isnt any change in Chinas position. This tariff war is started by the U.S. If a negotiated solution is truly what the U.S. wants, it should stop threatening and exerting pressure, and seek dialogue with China on the basis of equality, respect and mutual benefit. China will firmly safeguard its legitimate rights and interests and international fairness and justice, and defend WTO rules and the multilateral trading system.

On specifics about the meeting, please stay tuned.

AFP: I got a question on Ukraine. So Chinese soldiers will march in Moscow on Friday for a military parade to mark the anniversary of the World War Two victory. Ukraine has said yesterday that it sees any participation by foreign army in this parade as support for Russia. So what is Chinas response to Ukraine?



Lin Jian: The great victory of the World Anti-Fascist War is the result of concerted efforts of all nations and peoples in the world who love peace and support justice. The Chinese people and people of all ethnic groups in Soviet Union made enormous sacrifice and indelible historic contributions to secure the victory. Chinas attendance at the celebrations hosted by Russia marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War of the Soviet Union shows that China respects and remembers history and is firmly resolved to defend the outcomes of the victory of World War II.

Bloomberg: When President Xi Jinping goes to Russia this week, hell have talks with President Vladimir Putin, and one of the topics of conversation will be the Power of Siberia 2 Gas Pipeline, which has been planned to go from Russia across Mongolia to China for years, but has never been started. Can the Foreign Ministry confirm that the Power of Siberia 2 Gas Pipeline will be on the table for discussion and can you offer more details about that?



Lin Jian: China and Russia always carry out friendly and mutually beneficial cooperation in various areas, including energy, under the principles of mutual respect and mutual benefit. For your specific question, Id refer you to competent authorities.
GAZA, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Hamas on Tuesday condemned Israel's recent cabinet approval to expand military operations in the Gaza Strip, arguing that the decision signals a blatant disregard for the lives of Israeli hostages there.

In a press statement, Hamas said that Israel's actions suggest it is willing to sacrifice hostages in favor of escalating "military aggression."

Hamas described the Israeli government's move as "explicitly sacrificing the hostages" in order to pursue a broader military campaign.

It criticized the decision as part of a "failed strategy" that has been in place for the past 18 months without achieving its intended objectives.

"We are the owners of this land and will remain on it despite the continuous aggression," Hamas said.

The group called on Arab and Islamic nations, as well as the international community, to take immediate action to halt the "crimes" and ensure that Israeli leaders are held accountable under international law for their actions.

This condemnation follows the Israeli Security Cabinet's authorization on Sunday to expand military operations in Gaza, as reported by Israeli media.

The decision to intensify the offensive comes as Israel's military chief Eyal Zamir confirmed the mobilization of tens of thousands of reservist soldiers to bolster the military campaign.

During a visit to a naval commando unit headquarters, Zamir stated that the goal of the expanded operations was to increase military pressure on Hamas.

He emphasized that the operations aim to secure the release of Israeli hostages and dismantle Hamas' infrastructure.

Israel's far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich further declared on Monday that Israeli forces would not withdraw from areas they currently control in Gaza, even if a hostage release agreement were reached.

Speaking at a conference in Jerusalem, Smotrich stated, "Once the maneuver begins -- there will be no withdrawal from the territories we've captured, not even in exchange for hostages."

In response, Hamas ruled out entering any new ceasefire or prisoner exchange negotiations with Israel, accusing Israel of escalating a "starvation campaign" against civilians in Gaza.

A senior Hamas official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Xinhua on Tuesday that Israel is exerting maximum pressure on Hamas to accept its controversial proposal for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza, only to resume hostilities later.

"We will never accept such an agreement," the official said.

"We have officially conveyed our rejection to the mediators and made it clear that we will not engage in any negotiations unless there are guarantees that the war will come to a complete end," the official added.

The official further accused Israel of employing starvation as a weapon to force Hamas into concessions. "This form of collective punishment against Gaza's population will not serve Israel's objectives," he said.

Since March 2, Israel has closed all crossings into the Gaza Strip, which has contributed to the deteriorating humanitarian conditions, according to local authorities.

The blockade has compounded the suffering of Gaza's civilian population, making it more difficult for aid to reach those in need.

Israeli forces resumed large-scale military operations in Gaza on March 18, following the end of a ceasefire agreement brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States in January. Efforts to renew or expand the ceasefire have failed.

At least 2,507 Palestinians had been killed and 6,711 others injured since Israel renewed its intensive strikes, bringing the total death toll since October 2023 to 52,615, and injuries to 118,752, Gaza-based health authorities said on Tuesday. 
A 28-year-old Milan man was in custody Tuesday after he was arrested on a warrant in connection with a 2023 robbery, according to Scott County Court arrest affidavits.

Cody Melchi (Scott County Jail)

Cody Melchi faces felony charges of second-degree robbery and conspiracy to commit a forcible felony, according to affidavits.

About 6:30 p.m. Sept. 26, 2023, Davenport Police say in affidavits that Melchi acted in concert with two co-conspirators as they entered Jasmine Spa, 922 E 59th St., Davenport.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Upon entering the business, one of the co-conspirators identified himself as a police officer. The subjects then ordered the victim to the ground and demanded money, officers say in affidavits.

The victim claimed there was no money, but the group continued to demand money stating I know theres money here.

This placed the victim in fear of immediate physical contact which would be painful, injurious, insulting, and/or offensive. All three co-conspirators had the apparent ability to execute such

an act, affidavits say.

After the victim continued to tell Melchi and the co-conspirators that there was no money present, one person took an electronic tablet device from the counter and said If you give me money, you can have it back.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The victim again stated there was no money, and all three people left the business, taking the tablet with them.

The incident was captured on surveillance video inside the business, and an officer obtained additional video footage recorded on the same day from a business in Moline related to a separate investigation, affidavits show.

The Moline video clearly shows (Melchis) face and shows that he is wearing the same clothing as the Jasmine Spa video, affidavits show. Officers identified Melchi from these videos, from a booking photo from the Scott County Sheriffs Office, and photographs that can be publicly viewed on social media, according to affidavits.

Affidavits show that during a post-Miranda interview with a co-defendant and a Moline Police Department detective, It was stated that the defendant was present for this robbery.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Melchi was being held Tuesday in Scott County Jail on a cash-only $50,000 bond. He is scheduled for a preliminary hearing May 16 in Scott County Court.

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 WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.
Ed Miliband has called for a massive expansion of solar power through the untapped potential of Britains car parks.

In a consultation, the Energy Secretary is seeking views on how to spur the construction of solar panel canopies above parking spaces at supermarkets, offices and shopping villages.

The idea is viewed as a win-win because it would make better use of sprawling car parks while also generating more green electricity, potentially lowering bills for businesses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Motorists would also benefit from more shaded parking spots and potentially a larger number of electric car charging stations, which could be powered directly by the panels, the Government said.

It is understood that the consultation will seek to understand why such solar canopies are more common in Europe than in the UK and what can be done to encourage more to be built here.

Ministers are thought to be considering whether measures used in Europe, which require outdoor car parks to have solar canopies, could be introduced.

Ed Miliband, the Energy Secretary, is seeking to step up the deployment of wind and solar farms - Zara Farrar /No 10 Downing Street

Mr Miliband said: Right now, the sun is shining on hundreds of thousands of car parking spaces across the country which could be used to power our homes and businesses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We want to work with businesses and car park operators to turn our car parks into solar carports to save families and businesses money with clean, home-grown British energy through our Plan for Change.

It comes as Mr Miliband is seeking to ramp up the deployment of wind and solar farms across the UK to deliver the Governments promise of a 95pc clean power system by 2030.

That will require the installed amount of solar capacity to jump from about 17GW (gigawatts) today to between 45GW and 47GW within just five years, according to the clean power action plan.

Mr Miliband has approved nearly 3GW of new capacity since he was appointed Energy Secretary in July, enough to power about 1m homes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

So-called solar carports and canopies are seen as yet another way for solar deployment to be boosted.

In European countries such as France and Slovenia, such solar panel canopies are mandatory in car parks, the Government said.

According to the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero, one 80-space car park could save about 28,000 a year in electricity bills by installing solar carports and using all electricity generated.

One of the biggest existing schemes is at the Metrocentre shopping centre in Gateshead, which has more than 5,300 rooftop and carport solar panels. These provide 40pc of the sites annual electricity needs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chris Hewett, chief executive of the trade association Solar Energy UK, welcomed the consultation but warned that grid connection issues across Britain were the real blocker to having more carports.

Encouraging or mandating the creation of solar-roofed car parks would be another win-win for the industry, creating greater access to charging points, cutting bills for businesses, driving down emissions and creating jobs, he said.

What has held this back from happening already is largely a lack of capacity in local electricity networks to accept the power generated.

Resolving that challenge is of critical importance, not just for solar car parks but to decarbonise warehouses, supermarkets, factories and hospitals, too.

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.
Within the first three days that Kaitlin and Jeremy Kuykendall enrolled their 15-month-old daughter in a Navy-run daycare near Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii, her smile disappeared as we started walking down the hallways, Kaitlin Kuykendall remembers.

By the third day at the facility, her daughter held Kaitlins hand tighter as they walked closer to the daycare center. When a bruise appeared on her daughters thigh, the couple reported it to the director of the Child Development Center, or CDC. The next day, she was told that video footage showed the 15-month-old being inappropriately touched.

But what did that mean?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Kuykendalls spent months filing information requests and even enlisting their member of Congress to find out what had happened.

Its upsetting because you want to know what happened to your child. You want to know how to help them, Kaitlin Kuykendall told Task & Purpose. [My daughter] wouldnt sleep with a blanket anymore. She had all these triggers which I had no idea where they were coming from because we werent being told what happened to her specifically.

Eventually, the Kuykendalls were provided a copy of the Navys investigation into the report and video footage through information requests, which answered their questions.

But according to a Department of Defense Inspector General report released this week, keeping parents in the dark about incidents at daycare was part of the system.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Parents or legal guardians may not be aware of the specifics of the alleged abuse or neglect of their child, thereby limiting the potential actions they can take to address the allegation, the IG said in its report.

The Inspector General found that DoD policies on suspected child abuse or neglect at CDCs lack uniform requirements for each of the services on the types of communication, notification timeframes, what information should be shared, and management of notification files.

Kaitlin Kuykendall said the report was not surprising because we lived that. She was the one to bring her suspicions to the CDC director and didnt find out that there were three CDC employees involved in her daughters abuse. In January 2024, two out of three of the Ford Island CDC daycare workers involved in the incident were found guilty of third-degree assault, according to Hawaii court records.

While the IG found huge holes in how each military service handles reports of abuse, a major policy overhaul will come from the IGs findings. The acting under secretary of defense for personnel and readiness told the IG that an updated policy with specifics on identification, notification, and reporting abuse allegations to parents or guardians will be issued by Sept. 30, 2025.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the IG, the Chief of Naval Personnel said the service would revise and reissue policies with detailed notification guidance for parents and guardians.

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The IG also reported that during their evaluation, the Department of Defense established a policy in December 2024 requiring that CDCs and base officials inform parents or guardians of suspected child abuse or neglect  an issue that was raised by a mother alleging child abuse at Army War Colleges Carlisle Barracks daycare in Pennsylvania. The mother told Task & Purpose in January 2024 that she watched as her childs behavior started regressing at a rapid rate within the first 10 days of attending the daycare.

Again, the parents later learned that CDC officials suspected or even knew of abuse, but did not inform them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The CDC knew our preschooler was actually penetrated three to four times in a 48-hour period and they allowed us to drop off our child the following morning like nothing happened, a full 24 hours later, the mother said at the time.

Army officials in that case said that they followed Army procedures for handling problematic sexual behavior involving children and Pennsylvania reporting laws  procedures the IG says should be improved and brought in line with the other services.

Had I known what I know now I would have never put her in a situation like that because it seems so unfair to families and to the children especially and it just doesnt create a safe environment, Kaitlin Kuykendall said. Im glad that this IG report came out and it brought up these concerns and flagged them because these are things that people just think naturally are happening. But not having that policy in place is alarming.

A second IG report on military CDCs will review the military services implementation of those policies and whether abuse allegations were addressed and appropriately communicated at select CDCs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kaitlin Kuykendall said the second IG review is supposed to include the Ford Island CDC. IG officials would not comment on the contents of the upcoming report and did not have information on when it would be released.

The latest on Task & Purpose
Trump administration cuts are reducing safe drinking water protections in the Great Lakes region, along with science that aids navigation and fishing. Sea caves line some of the Apostle Island shores on Lake Superior. (Photo by Erik Gunn/Wisconsin Examiner)

This story is republished from ProPublica

Just one year ago, JD Vance was a leading advocate of the Great Lakes and the efforts to restore the largest system of freshwater on the face of the planet.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As a U.S. senator from Ohio, Vance called the lakes an invaluable asset for his home state. He supported more funding for a program that delivers the tools we need to fight invasive species, algal blooms, pollution, and other threats to the ecosystem so that the Great Lakes would be protected for generations to come.

But times have changed.

This spring, Vance is vice president, and President Donald Trumps administration is imposing deep cuts and new restrictions, upending the very restoration efforts that Vance once championed. With the peak summer season just around the corner, Great Lakes scientists are concerned that they have lost the ability to protect the public from toxic algal blooms, which can kill animals and sicken people.

Cutbacks have gutted the staff at the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory, part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Severe spending limits have made it difficult to purchase ordinary equipment for processing samples, such as filters and containers. Remaining staff plans to launch large data-collecting buoys into the water this week, but its late for a field season that typically runs from April to October.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In addition to a delayed launch, problems with personnel, supplies, vessel support and real-time data sharing have created doubts about the teams ability to operate the buoys, said Gregory Dick, director of the NOAA cooperative institute at the University of Michigan that partners with the lab. Both the lab and institute operate out of a building in Ann Arbor, Michigan, that was custom built as NOAAs hub in the Great Lakes region, and both provide staff to the algal blooms team.

This has massive impacts on coastal communities, Dick said.

Multiple people who have worked with the lab also told ProPublica that there are serious gaps in this years monitoring of algal blooms, which are often caused by excess nutrient runoff from farms. Data generated by the labs boats and buoys, and publicly shared, could be limited or interrupted, they said.

That data has helped to successfully avoid a repeat of a 2014 crisis in Toledo, Ohio, when nearly half a million people were warned to not drink the water or even touch it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If the streams of information are cut off, stakeholders will be very unhappy, said Bret Collier, a branch chief at the lab who oversaw the federal scientists that run the harmful algal bloom program for the Great Lakes. He was fired in the purge of federal probationary workers in February.

The lab has lost about 35% of its 52-member workforce since February, according to the president of the labs union, and it was not allowed to fill several open positions. The White House released preliminary budget recommendations last week that would make significant cuts to NOAA. The budget didnt provide details, but indicated the termination of a variety of climate-dominated research, data, and grant programs, which are not aligned with Administration policy of ending Green New Deal initiatives.

An earlier document obtained by ProPublica and reported widely proposed a 74% funding cut to NOAAs research office, home of the Great Lakes lab.

Vances office didnt respond to questions from ProPublica about how federal cuts have affected Great Lakes research. The White House also didnt respond to messages.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Municipal water leaders in Cleveland and Toledo have written public letters of support on behalf of the lab, advocating for the continuation of its work because of how important its tools and resources are for drinking water management.

In a statement to ProPublica, staffers from Toledos water system credited the Great Lakes lab and NOAA for alerting it to potential blooms near its intake days ahead of time. This has saved the system significant costs, they said, and helped it avoid feeding excess chemicals into the water.

The likelihood of another 2014 dont drink the water advisory has been minimized to almost nothing by additional vigilance from both the lab and local officials, they said.

Remaining staff have had to contend with not only a lack of capacity but also tight limits on spending and travel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Several people who have worked in or with the lab said that the staff was hampered by strict credit card limits imposed on government employees as part of the effort to reduce spending by the Department of Government Efficiency, which has been spearheaded by presidential adviser Elon Musk.

The basic scientific supplies that we use to provide the local communities with information on algal bloom toxicity  our purchasing of them is being restricted based on the limitations currently being put in by the administration, Collier said.

NOAA and the Department of Commerce, which oversees the agency, didnt respond to messages from ProPublica. Neither did a DOGE official. Eight U.S. senators, including the minority leader, sent a letter in March to a top NOAA leader inquiring about many of the changes, but they never received a response.

The department described its approach to some of its cuts when it eliminated nearly $4 million in funding for the NOAA cooperative institute at Princeton University and emphasized the importance of avoiding wasteful government spending. ProPublica has reported on how the loss of research grants at Princeton and the more significant defunding of the NOAA lab it works with would be a serious setback for weather and climate preparedness.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A number of the staffing losses at the Great Lakes lab came when employees accepted offers of early retirement or voluntary separation; others were fired probationary workers targeted by DOGE across the government. That includes Collier, who had 24 years of professional experience, largely as a research professor, before he was hired last year into a position that, according to the labs former director, had been difficult to fill.

A scientist specializing in the toxic algal blooms was also fired. She worked on the team for 14 years through the cooperative institute before accepting a federal position last year, which made her probationary, too.

A computer scientist who got real-time data onto the labs website  and the only person who knew how to push out the weekly sampling data on harmful algal blooms  was also fired. She was probationary because she too was hired for a federal position after working with the institute.

And because of a planned retirement, no one holds the permanent position of lab director, though there is an acting director. The lab isnt allowed to fill any positions due to a federal hiring freeze.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At the same time, expected funds for the labs cooperative institute are delayed, which means, Dick said, it may soon lay off staff, including people on the algal blooms team.

In March, Clevelands water commissioner wrote a letter calling for continued support for the Great Lakes lab and other NOAA-funded operations in the region, saying that access to real-time forecasts for Lake Erie are critically important in making water treatment decisions for more than 1.3 million citizens.

In 2006, there was a major outbreak of hypoxia, an issue worsened by algal blooms where oxygen-depleted water can become corrosive, discolored and full of excess manganese, which is a neurotoxin at high levels. Cleveland Water collaborated with the lab on developing a groundbreaking hypoxia forecast model, said Scott Moegling, who worked for both the Cleveland utility and Ohios drinking water regulatory agency.

I knew which plants were going to get hit, Moegling said. I knew about when, and I knew what the treatment we would need would be, and we could staff accordingly.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The American Meteorological Society, in partnership with the National Weather Association, spotlighted this warning system in its statement in support of NOAA research, saying that it helps keep drinking water potable in the Great Lakes region.

Collier, the former branch chief, said that quality data may be lacking this year, not just for drinking water suppliers, but also the U.S. Coast Guard, fisheries, shipping companies, recreational businesses and shoreline communities that rely on it to navigate risk. In response to a recent survey of stakeholders, the president of a trade organization serving Great Lakes cargo vessels said that access to NOAAs real-time data is critically important to the commercial shipping fleet when making navigation decisions.

Because federal law requires NOAA to monitor harmful algal blooms, the cuts may run against legal obligations, several current and former workers told ProPublica. The blooms program was federally mandated to be active every single day, without exception, Collier said.

The 2024 bloom in Lake Erie was the earliest on record. At its peak, it covered 550 square miles. Warming temperatures worsen the size and frequency of algal blooms. While the field season was historically only about 90 days, Collier said, last year the team was deployed for 211 days.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As the shallowest of the Great Lakes, Lake Erie is typically first to show signs of problems. But its also an emblem of environmental stewardship, thanks to its striking recovery from unchecked industrial pollution. The lake was once popularly declared dead. A highly publicized fire inflamed a river that feeds into it. Even Dr. Seuss knocked it in the 1971 version of The Lorax. The book described fish leaving a polluted pond in search of some water that isnt so smeary. I hear things are just as bad up in Lake Erie.

But the rise of agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency and NOAA, and labs like the one protecting the Great Lakes, along with legislation that protected water from pollution, led to noticeable changes. By 1986, two Ohio graduate students had succeeded in persuading Theodor Geisel, the author behind Dr. Seuss, to revise future editions of his classic book.

I should no longer be saying bad things about a body of water that is now, due to great civic and scientific effort, the happy home of smiling fish, Geisel wrote to them.

Early this year, headlines out of the Midwest suggested that Vance could be a game-changing Great Lakes advocate and that he might save the Great Lakes from Trump.

A 2023 report to Congress about the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, a popular funding mechanism for projects that protect the lakes, including the research labs, described the labs work on harmful algal blooms as one of its success stories. Last year, with Vance as a co-sponsor, an act to extend support for the funding program passed the Senate, but stalled in the House. Another bipartisan effort to reauthorize it launched in January.

Project 2025, the plan produced by the Heritage Foundation for Trumps second term, recommended that the president consider whether NOAA should be dismantled and many of its functions eliminated, sent to other agencies, privatized, or placed under the control of states and territories.

NOAA is a colossal operation that has become one of the main drivers of the climate change alarm industry, the plan said, and this industrys mission seems designed around the fatal conceit of planning for the unplannable.

That is not to say NOAA is useless, it added, but its current organization corrupts its useful functions. It should be broken up and downsized.

When asked at his confirmation hearing in January if he agreed with Project 2025s recommendation of dismantling NOAA, Howard Lutnick, head of the commerce department, said no.

One month later, the Great Lakes labs probationary staff got termination notices. That includes Nicole Rice, who spent a decade with NOAA. A promotion made her communications job vulnerable to the widespread firings of federal probationary workers.

In recent testimony to a Michigan Senate committee, Rice expressed deep concern about the future of the Great Lakes.

It has taken over a century of bipartisan cooperation, investment and science to bring the Great Lakes back from the brink of ecological collapse, Rice said. But these reckless cuts could undo the progress in just a few short years, endangering the largest surface freshwater system in the world.

Vernal Coleman contributed reporting.

ProPublica is a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative newsroom. Sign up for The Big Story newsletter to receive stories like this one in your inbox.
May 7A high-ranking member of Gov. Josh Stein's administration visited Canton last week as the former paper mill site continues its transition  a project that is massive in terms of both scope and ambition.

Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Reid Wilson met with Canton Mayor Zeb Smathers, new mill site owner Eric Spirtas, Haywood County Commissioners Kevin Ensley and Brandon Rogers, and others during the visit. Their wide-ranging conversation served as a recommitment of the public/private partnership upon which Canton has pinned so much of its hopes for the future.

"Obviously DEQ has this regulatory part to it, but these are people that are coming with solutions that want to see us succeed. And so, I see (Secretary Wilson) not only as a partner, but as a family," Mayor Smathers said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"What's exciting about this is, it is bold. It's not just, 'let's get back to where we were before,'" Secretary Wilson said. "It's thinking about, 'How do we make this town more resilient? How do we protect water quality in the Pigeon? How do we protect our environment? How do we redevelop in a way that brings jobs and people to this beautiful town?'"

DEQ's job is to review permit applications and ensure that laws are followed, Wilson said, adding his department also is a ready and willing partner in the future of the mill site.

"And I just wanted to come out today to learn more about everything that is planned so that we can make sure we're doing what we need to do to assist and help the bold dream become a reality," he said.

The Green Mountain Plan

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Much of the meeting involved Spirtas giving Wilson a rundown of how the mill site was impacted by Helene and what the plans for the site will be moving forward.

Spirtas stressed that it is early days (demolition only began last month), and much is still up in the air. But Spirtas didn't see uncertainty as a bad thing. He pointed toward his company's experience with such projects.

"No one has to be embarrassed about not knowing what's in front and not knowing exactly what's going to happen. We've done it before, and we can do it again," he said.

Spirtas called his vision for the mill site "The Green Mountain Plan." In this vision, which he stressed is just one possible outcome for the site, there will be a large reservoir dug next to the Pigeon River to help ameliorate future flooding  10 to 15 acres of the site's 50-acre expanse.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Along the reservoir would be a public event space, a greenway, and other "town friendly" infrastructure.

"The mayor had a vision well before (I did), and I embrace that, and I say it will be walkable, it'll be enjoyable," Spirtas said.

He also proposed residential zones in areas that are higher up off the river.

"This will be a nine-figure development," Spirtas said of the potential project cost.

Clean water

Environmental issues were also a topic of conversation.

"We're not looking past the fact that this had 115 years of stuff," Spirtas said, placing heavy emphasis on the word stuff. "And so, for anybody who will listen and everybody who wants to know, whatever material we're dealing with flows in one direction. And that's good. Because you can catch it."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The environmental clean-up plan is "voluminous," and involves creating a system that will harvest and process any residual mill pollution before it reaches the Pigeon River.

By working with the previous owners and the EPA, Spirtas said, his group is aware of below-ground contamination, and there is a plan to deal with it as development of the site progresses.

"The collection of environmental materials will be symbiotic with redevelopment. It won't all be done when we're redeveloping, but it'll be in control, and it will not impact the river," he said.

The wastewater treatment plant on the mill site was also discussed, with Spirtas pointing out that the plant had reached pre-storm levels of operation and that the partnership between his company and the Town of Canton was "looking for the next steps."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I lose sleep over a lot of things, but the future of that wastewater plant and being able to provide the wastewater needs to this town isn't one of them," Smathers said. "We're going to figure that out. The plumbing is working in the town of Canton right now, and we'll get to the other things. It's with partnerships with DEQ, finding the grants, the resources...being creative. You have a sincere cooperation because we believe what this site could be, and it is nothing without infrastructure and wastewater."

Spirtas was also hopeful that the future of wastewater treatment in Canton was secure.

"It can be done. It will be done," he said, calling out the experience of longtime wastewater treatment plant workers who went on Spirtas' payroll after the mill sale. "I look at the guys that are supporting us here. These guys are powerhouses. We have months of running (the wastewater treatment plant) in the current state with people I'm so proud of."

The meeting wrapped with Mayor Smathers once again highlighting the ambitious nature of the site's future.

"This is not the Milltown Miracle. This is the Milltown Moonshot. Why shouldn't we be bold?" Smathers said. "There was a time in this country we were drawn to those types of projects. We let politics and pettiness bring us down. But that's how this town was built. No one came in here and said, 'Let's go small.' So, honoring that tradition is by going bold again."
May 7TROY  In their fourth attempt to pass a levy since 2023, the Milton-Union schools succeeded, according to unofficial results Tuesday from the Miami County Board of Elections.

The request for a five-year, additional 0.75% earned income tax for five years for the Union Twp. school was approved by a 54.4 to 45.6 percent ratio.

"On behalf of the Board of Education, teachers, classified staff members, administrators, and most of all, our students, we are sincerely grateful for the support of the Milton-Union community. We are committed to following through and implementing the district's long-term financial plan," said district Superintendent Brad Ritchey. "To everyone who supported the effort over the past several weeks by distributing information, displaying signs, walking neighborhoods and practicing resiliency, we cannot thank you enough."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The cost of the earned income tax for a family with $50,000 in taxable income would be $375 a year. Voters turned down previous funding requests for school operations via a property tax in 2023 and earned income taxes in spring and fall 2024.

The Milton-Union voting precincts were the busiest in the county, said Laura Bruns, county elections director. Voter turnout was listed on the unofficial results posting at just more than 29 percent.

The Troy-Miami County Public Library also was successful in a bid for additional money. Library leaders were hoping voters would support a five-year, 1-mill tax to help bridge a state funding gap, said Rachelle Via, library director. This was the library's first request for a tax increase in 12 years. The additional levy amounts to $35 annually per $100,000 of property value per the county auditor. It will provide the library with $1,696,000 a year in funding.

Those in the Troy, Miami East, Newton and Bethel school districts voted on the library request.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Thank you to everyone who voted for knowledge, community and the future by supporting the library levy. Your vote will help keep doors open, story times and programs happening and important books and resources available for all," Via said.

In Newberry Twp.,a replacement levy that would generate $367,000 a year was approved by a 68.94 percent to 31.06 percent ratio. Taxpayers now paying $99.74 on a $100,000 home value, will pay $122.50 for the replacement levy.

In other school districts, Bethel, Troy and Tipp City voters all approved renewal levies. The Bethel income tax renewal was approved 64.7 percent to 35.3 percent, while Troy's property tax renewal succeeded by a 56.3 to 43.7 percent ratio and voters in Tipp City authorized a property tax renewal by a 55.8 to 44.2 percent ratio.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporter Cleo Krejci is the winner of the 2025 Center for Integrity in News Reporting award for her investigation into the staffing crisis straining Wisconsin's rapidly growing assisted living industry.

Krejci accepted the award at a ceremony at the Library of Congress on May 6.

The award was created in 2024 with the mission of growing public trust in news by celebrating exemplary journalism that demonstrates fairness, integrity and impartiality.

Cleo Krejci

Krejci, who covers workforce development for the Journal Sentinel through Report for America, was inspired by her own experience working as a direct caregiver. What she witnessed formed the basis of her investigative project, "The Gray Zone."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Supported by a grant from the Gerontological Society of America, Krejci delved into hundreds of state reports and interviewed more than 50 workers, families, nurses, researchers and others.

She found that over the past 20 years, the number of assisted living beds has doubled, but the number of complaints has tripled. Caregivers told Krejci they were thrown into the job without preparation, putting themselves and residents in danger and fueling a vicious cycle of turnover.

"When Cleo joined our team, she wasn't sure what to do with all she had seen and experienced as a caregiver," said Greg Borowski, executive editor of the Journal Sentinel. "We encouraged her to follow the story and dig deeper. She did so with determination, empathy and integrity, always centered on telling the story with care and heart."

"That's what we ask all of our reporters to do every day: Be essential. Be connected. Make a difference in our community," Borowski said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Krejci's reporting on assisted living has earned a number of other distinguished honors.

Krejci was also named a Goldsmith Award semifinalist, one of the top awards in journalism, and a Livingston Award finalist, which honors journalists under 35. Livingston Award winners will be announced in June.

Her project was also a finalist for a prestigious Investigative Reporters and Editors Award. Judges called it an "important and empathetic" investigation that "significantly serves the public interest."

Krejci's reporting also took second place in the Wisconsin Newspaper Association's inaugural A-Mark Prize for Investigative Journalism and third place in the National Headliner Awards in the public service category.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Reporter Cleo Krejci wins Center for Integrity in News Reporting award
WAUPUN  A Milwaukee woman was arrested May 5 in connection with threats made to Waupun Correctional Institution employees.

According to Dodge County Sheriff's Office, multiple victims received hundreds of harassing calls, texts and emails, whether they worked at or were associated with Waupun Correctional Institution.

The threatening communications disrupted operations at the institution, prompting law enforcement to increase its presence near the victims' homes, the sheriff's office said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: View mugshots & more with Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Office new inmate search on website

Detectives with the sheriff's office found evidence in electronic communication devices and worked with the Milwaukee Police Department Tactical Enforcement Unit and the Milwaukee Police Department Special Investigations Division to execute a search warrant in Milwaukee and arrest Trina Brown, 32.

Criminal charges referred to the Dodge County District Attorneys Office include multiple counts of stalking, terroristic threats, unlawful use of a telephone, unlawful use of a computerized communication system and bail jumping.

No other information about the case was immediately released.

Contact Daphne Lemke at dlemke@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Fond du Lac Reporter: Woman arrested for stalking Waupun Correctional Institution employees
By Portia Crowe

(Reuters) -A convoy transporting heavy mining equipment from the Malian capital Bamako to Allied Gold's Sadiola mine came under attack in the Kayes region over the weekend, two people familiar with the incident told Reuters late on Tuesday.

The attack points to expanding security risks - and related additional costs - facing mining companies operating in military-led Sahel states that are struggling to contain Islamist militant groups.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While government and military convoys more frequently come under attack in Mali, attacks on mining equipment have until now been rare.

The CEO of Canadian gold miner Fortuna this month told Reuters that increased security concerns due to jihadist threats were among the reasons the company recently decided to exit Mali's neighbour Burkina Faso.

In Sunday's attack, two large trucks were set alight, an excavator was damaged and two pick-up trucks were stolen, one of the sources familiar with the incident said. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack.

The equipment belongs to the local Caterpillar dealer Neemba and had been leased to the subcontractor Mota-Engil, which operates at Sadiola's quarry, the sources said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Eight people present - all employees of Neemba - were unharmed in the attack, which the sources said was disrupted by soldiers from the Malian army who had been nearby.

The incident took place between the towns of Diema and Sandare, the sources said. A separate security source confirmed an attack had taken place in that location on Sunday, but was unable to provide further details.

Spokespeople for Allied Gold, Neemba and Mota-Engil and a spokesperson for Mali's army did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Mali is one of Africa's largest gold producers, with mining companies including Barrick Gold, B2GOLD, Resolute Mining, Endeavour Mining and Hummingbird Resources active in the gold-rich western and southern regions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In February 2024, three employees of the Canadian miner B2Gold were killed in an attack on a convoy transporting them from the Fekola gold mine in southwest Mali to Bamako, the company said at the time.

But two sources with knowledge of that incident told Reuters the buses had been mistaken for a military convoy.

Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger have experienced coups in recent years carried out by military officers who vowed to push back jihadist groups affiliated with Al Qaeda and the Islamic State, though rampant insecurity persists in all three countries.

(Reporting by Portia Crowe in Dakar; Editing by Robbie Corey-Boulet and Jan Harvey)
Li Dengke (R, rear), a TCM doctor from the 34th Chinese medical team in Zanzibar, and Fatma Ally Abdallah (L, rear), a 30-year-old nurse, administer acupuncture treatment to a local patient in Zanzibar, Tanzania, on May 6, 2025. (Xinhua/Hua Hongli)

by Xinhua writer Hua Hongli

ZANZIBAR, Tanzania, May 7 (Xinhua) -- For 26-year-old Tanzanian Hassan Jumbe, those sleepless nights were laden with pain and stress.

Night after night, relentless headaches haunted the young construction worker, a dull, throbbing pain that robbed him of rest and focus. Though he tried everything from over-the-counter medication to home remedies, nothing seemed to offer relief.

Later, a friend mentioned an acupuncture clinic at Mnazi Mmoja Hospital, where doctors from China used fine silver needles to ease pain. Skeptical but desperate, Jumbe decided to give it a go.

Mnazi Mmoja Hospital is the region's main public healthcare facility, where the Chinese medical team are based. "Mnazi Mmoja" means "one coconut tree" in the Swahili language.

"I thought it was a joke at first. Needles for healing headaches, really?" Jumbe told Xinhua in a recent interview.

"But after the first session, I felt a sense of relief. By the third session, my headaches were nearly gone," he recalled, rubbing his temple where the needles had once been inserted. "It's not just the treatment. The doctors are so attentive, so patient. It feels like they genuinely care."

Jumbe is among more than 120,000 patients who have experienced the healing touch of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in Zanzibar, where Chinese medical teams have provided care since 1964.

Over the decades, more than 30 Chinese TCM doctors have worked in rotation on the island, offering acupuncture, tuina (therapeutic massage), and herbal remedies.

Inside a modest clinic at Mnazi Mmoja Hospital, Li Dengke, a TCM doctor from China's Jiangsu Province, moved with precision. His steady hands inserted each needle, his calm voice soothing anxious patients. For him, TCM is not merely about technique but a deep understanding of the human body and the silent conversation between healer and patient.

"I have seen patients come in with pain and leave with relief, but it is more than that," Li said. "Every needle carries care. Every touch is a message."

Fatma Ally Abdallah, a 30-year-old nurse, observed carefully, her hands steady, as she prepared the next patient. She was no longer just an observer. Since 2021, she has been learning TCM techniques under the guidance of Chinese doctors. What began as curiosity has grown into a skill she now practices with confidence.

"At first, it seemed so complex. But the Chinese doctors were patient. They taught me acupuncture, explained the meridian system, and even guided me in selecting treatment points," she said, adjusting the needles for a patient suffering from lower back pain. "Now I can perform acupuncture independently."

Chen Wei, the leader of the 34th Chinese medical team in Zanzibar, explained that their mission is to treat and teach.

"We focus on two aspects. First, we conduct formal training sessions where local doctors and nurses learn TCM techniques, both theoretical and practical. Second, we encourage them to practice in real cases, building confidence and skills," he said.

Today, several local doctors and nurses are capable of independently performing basic TCM procedures. They apply tuina, administer cupping therapy, and explain TCM concepts to curious patients.

Looking out from the clinic's rain-streaked window, Chen reflected on the journey of the Chinese medical team. "It's not just about the needles," he said softly. "It's about the hearts they touch." 
JOHNSTOWN, Pa.  Sometimes people can take for granted whats in their own backyard, said Lisa Rager, executive director of Visit Johnstown, Cambria Countys official destination marketing organization.

However, Cambria County generated $300.8 million in visitor spending in 2023  a $12 million increase over 2022, according to the recently released Economic Impact of Travel & Tourism in Pennsylvania Report.

The report, released by the Pennsylvania Office of Tourism, shows that visitor spending in Cambria County directly supported 2,073 jobs in 2023 and generated $74.5 million in labor income; $15 million in state and local taxes; and $17.1 million in federal taxes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We are really blessed to have so much thats just minutes from our doorstep, and people from other areas are traveling here to bike and hike our trails, paddle our waterways, attend a festival, and explore our rich history, Rager said.

By category, visitor spending in Cambria County totaled $22.4 million on lodging; $68.3 million on food and beverage; $45.1 million on retail; $58.8 million on recreation; and $106.2 million on transportation, the report said.

The latest tally represents a 97.35% recovery from pre-COVID-19 spending, which stood at $309 million in 2019, Visit Johnstown said in a press release.

Rager expressed confidence that the county will continue to increase visitor spending in the future.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Visit Johnstown has been facilitating the rebranding of the area to focus on the areas outdoor recreation and experiences that only this area can claim, she said.

The Path of the Flood Trail passes through the Staple Bend Tunnel, which was Americas first railroad tunnel. The Ghost Town Trail will soon be countrys second looped rail-trail, Rager said  and the Stonycreek River has the longest continuous set of Class III-IV rapids in the eastern United States.

The downhill mountain biking trails on the Inclined Plane hillside will become a bigger draw once the Inclined Plane reopens because nobody else has trails that are connected to a transportation system like the Incline, which is also the steepest vehicular inclined plane in the world, Rager said.

In addition, Rock Run Recreation ATV park is considered one of the premier ATV recreation parks in the eastern United States, she said, and Prince Gallitzin State Park is one of the most visited state parks in Pennsylvania.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We have a lot to capitalize on, Rager said.

Our areas contributions to Americas story are beautifully told in our national parks, historic sites and museums, which are a big draw for the history and heritage traveler.

The economic impact report also shows Somerset, Fayette and Westmoreland counties  marketed together as one Laurel Highlands region  has reached a tourism milestone.

Visitor spending grew by 3% in the Laurel Highlands region in 2023, exceeding $2 billion  a record high, said Eric Knopsnyder, GO Laurel Highlands public relations director.

The 2023 visitor spending in the Laurel Highlands surpasses even pre-pandemic spending of $1.9 billion in 2019.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The world in general has changed since the COVID-19 pandemic and that includes travel, he said. People have found outdoor spaces to their liking and the Laurel Highlands has so many wonderful outdoor spaces, but its also culture, arts and unique lodging.

We are seeing more people taking advantage of that.

Russ OReilly is a reporter for The Tribune-Democrat. Follow him on Twitter @RussellOReilly.
UPDATE: TUESDAY 5/6/2025 7:01 p.m.

(CANON CITY, Colo.)  James Melies has been found safe, according to CCPD.

UPDATE: TUESDAY 5/6/2025 4:19 p.m.

A Senior Alert has now been issued by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for James Melies.

According to the CBI, Melies suffers from a cognitive impairment which may result in him becoming confused.

TUESDAY 5/6/2025 3:16 p.m.

ORIGINAL STORY: Senior Alert issued for 67-year-old last seen in Canon City

The Canon City Police Department (CCPD) is asking the community to be on the lookout for a missing 67-year-old man who was last seen on foot at his home in the Downtown area on Monday, May 6.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to CCPD, 67-year-old James Jim Melies was reported missing on Tuesday afternoon after he was last seen around 8:30 p.m. at his home in the 700 block of Royal Gorge Boulevard, in the Downtown Historic District.

Courtesy: Canon City Police Department

CCPD said Melies friends report that he frequents the Canon City Public Library as well as the Arkansas River.

Melies is described as 59 tall, weighs approximately 170 pounds, with blue eyes and grey hair. He may be wearing a gray Rocky Mountain windbreaker, blue jeans, and a blue ball cap. CCPD asks anyone who thinks they may have seen Melies or who knows of his whereabouts to contact police at (719) 276-5600 or 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 FOX21 News Colorado.
Sen. Rusty Black, R-Chillicothe, on the first day of the 2024 Legislative Session (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).

A bill to fund pensions for Missouri sheriffs from new fees on court documents and a slice of the money the state pays counties to house prisoners passed the state Senate on a nearly unanimous vote Tuesday, potentially rescuing a retirement system that voters refused to support at the ballot in November.

Last year, lawmakers appropriated $5 million of general revenue to the Missouri Sheriffs Retirement System and placed a measure on the November ballot that would have imposed a $3 fee on court cases to keep it solvent in the future.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The ballot measure was rejected by 61% of voters, leaving the 5% donation from sheriffs salaries in 114 counties and the city of St. Louis as the funds only income. Those contributions totaled $89,502 in 2023, according to the systems annual report, while the system paid out $3.8 million in benefits to 147 retired former sheriffs, one disabled former sheriff, and 52 spouses. The administrative costs of the system were $244,454.

Prior to 2021, the retirement fund was supported by the court fee but the Missouri Supreme Court ruled that year that it was unconstitutional because it represented a hurdle for citizens to access the courts.

Sheriffs currently receive a $10 fee to serve papers in a civil case initiated by a private party, money that is deposited in a special fund to support increased pay for deputies. The bill would raise that fee to $15 in most counties and $20 in the largest, those of the first and second classification, with the extra money going to the retirement system.

The bill would maintain the contribution at 5% of salary, and shave $1.75 off the daily amount the state pays for housing prisoners convicted of felonies and sentenced to a term in a state prison. The state currently pays $24.95 per day and whether that amount will be increased by 50 cents per day is an issue to be decided in state budget negotiations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sheriffs in counties of the first and second classification are paid 80% of the salary of an associate circuit judge, or $130,720 for the year. In other counties, the salary is calculated as a smaller percentage of the judicial salary, based on assessed value of property, with the lowest being about $70,300 per year.

There is an exception among the larger counties. Dwayne Carey, the sheriff of Boone County, is paid $174,116 annually because of an anomaly in how the pay was established and a legal inability to reduce it during his tenure in office.

State Sen. Rusty Black, a Chillicothe Republican handling the House-passed bill in the Senate, said the bill will put the system on track to pay all its current and future obligations. The fund, he said, currently has about 70% of the money it needs, based on estimates of future market returns and contributions.

With these three legs on the stool, jail reimbursement, sheriffs (contributions), and then the processing fee, hopefully were going to raise, the estimate is, somewhere around $3.8 million, Black said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That would make the system fully funded in about 20 years, he said.

The bill needs a final vote in the House before going to Gov. Mike Kehoe for his signature.

The budget that must be passed this week also includes $2 million more from state general revenue to keep the system afloat. The budget language also includes a prohibition on using pension system funds for political contributions, a reaction to the fund donating $30,000 to the unsuccessful ballot measure campaign just weeks after receiving the infusion of state cash.

The bill began in the House as a proposal to limit the impact of a court judgment on retirement benefits for members of the St. Louis Police Department.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bill has grown to also include:

Provisions banning state-established pension funds from making investments where environmental, social or governance concerns influence financial decisions in a manner that would overridefiduciary duties;

A ban on pension fund investments in Chinese securities and the withdrawal of funds from pooled investments that include shares in companies based in China or controlled by its government or ruling Communist Party. Funds would have until 2028 to comply;

A requirement that Kansas City police officers retire at age 65 or after 35 years on the job, whichever is earlier.

The bill required portions of two days to debate in the Senate, where a provision doubling a pension tax exemption for lower-income retirees was stripped from the bill. The tax cut would have reduced state revenue by about $140 million annually.

Democrats questioned several provisions. State Sen. Stephen Webber, a Columbia Democrat, said he was surprised to see the provisions barring investment decisions based on governance next to the provision banning investments in China because it is out of political favor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I can see both pieces making sense, Webber said. Its just weird to see them both together.

Thats where you and I work, Black replied. Some days, bill after bill, they all lay together and it seems like well all be singing Mary Poppins songs and flying with an umbrella. And then sometimes we end up with stuff like this, that right one right after another in a spreadsheet, and they seem opposite of each other.

The failed ballot measure would have also authorized a court fee to support the pensions of elected prosecutors.

Do you think thats probably the last fix well need on the sheriffs for a while? state Sen. Tracy McCreery, an Olivette Democrat, asked Black.

I hope so, he said. Prosecuting attorneys are next in line.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG)  A Mobile County woman accused of shooting her neighbor has been arrested, News 5 has learned.

Thomasville crash kills 2, injures 4, police chief says

According to a Mobile County Sheriffs Office news release, Prichard Police officers were called to 736 Reynolds Ave., about 2:30 p.m. Tuesday for a shooting.

LOCATION:

Officers met with the caller  the victim  and he told them his neighbor shot him, the release said.

Miya Houston (Photo courtesy of the Mobile County Sheriffs Office)

The victim was taken to the hospital, where he had immediate surgery for life-threatening injuries, the release said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The neighbor, 46-year-old Miya Houston, was held by officers until detectives from MCSOs Major Crimes unit could arrive, the release said.

During the investigation, detectives learned that Houston and the victim live in a duplex, with the victim living on one side and Houston living on the other side with her elderly mother, the release said.

Houston told detectives that a homicide had happened near her home last year, and she thought the victim and his family suspected her of being involved, the release said. She said she had reported to the Prichard and Mobile police departments that the victim was following her.

Houston said before the Tuesday shooting, she had been at home taking care of her mother when she heard someone come into the apartment. She said she got her .22-caliber gun and told the intruder, a woman, to leave, the release said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the release, the intruding woman left and went next door to the victims apartment. Houston said she saw the victim come outside and they got into an argument, which led to Houston shooting the victim, the release said.

Police are in the process of getting a search warrant for cameras at the residence, the release said.

Formerly missing Albertville 13-year-old found under blanket in vehicle during Arizona traffic stop

Houston was arrested and charged with first-degree assault.

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 WKRG News 5.
MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG)  A Mobile man has been sentenced to two years in prison after being found in possession of a gun as a convicted felon.

Changes coming to historic Dauphin Way Baptist Church  what we know

According to a news release from the United States Attorneys Office Southern District of Alabama, Derrick C. Busby, 34, was arrested on Oct. 22, 2023, after a traffic stop.

Derrick Cornelius Busby. (Photo courtesy of the Mobile County Sheriffs Office)

The USDOJ news release said officers saw marijuana on Busbys lap and watched him drink from a bottle of prescription-only promethazine syrup  an allergy medication  and swallow marijuana during the traffic stop, the release said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Officers then searched Busbys car and found a loaded Taurus 9 mm pistol, a loaded extended magazine, a digital scale and other items, the release said.

According to the release, the pistol they found had been reported stolen to the Daphne Police Department by its original owner in December 2022.

Busby told police the gun was his, and hed heard it was stolen and might have been connected to a homicide, the release said. He also told authorities that he was a convicted felon.

At the time of his arrest, Busby had prior felony convictions for robbery and burglary, which made his possession of the pistol illegal under federal law.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the Mobile Police Department investigated the case.

New Admiral Semmes statue coming to Baldwin County

Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Roller prosecuted the 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 WKRG News 5.
Sandra Grimes pleaded guilty in 2024 to conspiracy to commit murder and transfer of a firearm to commit a felony. A jury convicted her sisters Mitzy Smith and Judy Owen of the same charges in January

The women plotted to kill Grimes' son-in-law Raul Mina because he and Grimes' daughter were battling in court for custody of their children

Grimes will now serve 70 months in prison. Owen will serve 120 months and Smith was sentenced to time served

Three sisters are heading to federal prison for their roles in a murder-for-hire plot.

Sandra Grimes was sentenced to 70 months in prison after admitting she plotted to kill her son-in-law during a contentious custody battle between him and her daughter.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Her two sisters, Judy Owen and Mitzy Smith, were also sentenced for their roles in trying to help Grimes carry out the murder.

Their plot was foiled when the woman they hired to carry out the murder went to the FBI.

Baldwin County Sheriff's Office Sandra Grimes Sandra Grimes

It all began back in February 2024 when the three women approached Rebecca Murphy and asked her to kill Raul Mina, the husband of Grimes' daughter Irma Nicole Bauer, according to the probable cause affidavit, which was obtained by PEOPLE.

At the time, Murphy said Owen helped her pay a medical bill for her sick dog. Then Owen "stated because she paid the bill, then Murphy had to kill Mina," the affidavit alleges.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Murphy says she then drove 200 miles with Owen and Grimes to Louisiana just so that they could drive by Mina's home before returning to Alabama, per the affidavit.

The affidavit says that during this trip, the women told Murphy their first attempt to hire a hitman failed when the man they paid $10,000 to ran off with the money.

Murphy was told that she would need to inject Mina with a fatal dose of heroin so that he would appear to be the victim of an accidental overdose, according to the affidavit.

Baldwin County Sheriff's Office Judy Owen Judy Owen

The women gave Murphy the money needed to purchase the heroin to kill Mina, and a week later, she returned to Louisiana with Owen, according to the affidavit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Murphy ultimately backed out after learning Grimes wanted her to kill Mina outside the courthouse, in broad daylight after a custody hearing  so the women returned to Alabama.

A few days later, Murphy said she was given an unregistered gun.

Murphy then went back to Louisiana for a third time and brought along her girlfriend Jessica Montgomery. Because Murphy is a felon and cannot own a firearm, Montgomery was tasked with purchasing bullets for the gun, says the affidavit.

Murphy continued to collect money from the sisters while also delaying the murder, and the relationship between her and the sisters grew increasingly hostile, according to the affidavit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The four women stopped speaking when Murphy refused to carry out the murder or return their money.

Baldwin County Sheriff's Office Mitzy Smith Mitzy Smith

A few months later, Murphy shared the details of the plot with FBI agents, and the three sisters, Murphy and Murphy's girlfriend were all charged for their roles in the plot.

Grimes struck a deal with prosecutors in October, entering a guilty plea to charges of conspiracy to commit murder for hire and transfer of a firearm to be used to commit a felony.

Owen and Smith opted to take their cases to trial, and in January both women were found guilty on multiple charges. Owen will now serve 120 months in prison while Smith was sentenced to time served.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Murphy and her girlfriend Jessica Montgomery were also each sentenced to five years in prison earlier this year. Montgomery was sentenced for purchasing ammunition for a known felon and Murphy for her role in the plot.

Read the original article on People
SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV)  Savannah leaders are coming together to support and celebrate the small businesses that make the city what it is.

You would be surprised at the products and services you can find in a local shop or the delicious food and drinks from a local restaurant. Small Business Week is also about educating entrepreneurs and giving them the resources needed to keep their doors open.

Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Bert Brantley said they understand the struggle business owners go through, and they want to help.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is tough. Its the American dream, but its also your blood, your sweat and your tears, Brantley said. You will never find a small business owner who is not nervous about the future Thats why this week its so important to celebrate and respect that risk our business owners take every day.

No matter the industry, there are ups and downs to owning any small business. Jamie Pleta of Finches Sandwiches and Sundries in Thunderbolt knows that well.

We had Hurricane Helene last fall that kind of destroyed us, Pleta said. We were out of power for about ten days. Then, we had the snowstorm in January that caught everyone off guard again  no power for about five days. If we lose one day Even a half a day is paying a good chunk of our bills. No dollars are wasted.

Mayor Van Johnson said local establishments are needed to support the economy in the area.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Money spent locally stays local, Johnson said. Once it is spent here, they hire people who are local, and the money is reinvested back into the community.

Over two-thirds of businesses in Savannah are considered small, meaning they have 500 employees or less.

Last year, those establishments hired 78% of the local workforce in the coastal empire, according to the chamber of commerce. Eight five percent of the chamber members are small or local.

For a list of Small Business Week events, 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 WSAV-TV.
MOORE, Okla. (KFOR)  A Moore firefighter who was injured during a house fire Monday morning is recovering in the hospital.

The Moore Fire Department said on Tuesday that the firefighter is in stable condition at a metro hospital after suffering second and third-degree burns while battling the house fire on N Morgan Drive near E Main Street, just after 9:30 a.m. on Monday.

RELATED: Moore firefighter injured while battling house fire

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We are incredibly grateful that our firefighter is stable and receiving excellent care. His

resilience has been truly inspiring, said Fire Chief Ryan Marlar. Our hearts are also with

the family who lost their home that day, and whose lives have been forever impacted.

According to the department, the cause of the fire is still under investigation, and further updates on the firefighters condition will be provided when they are 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 KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
May 6MORGANTOWN  The conveyance of 19 parcels of city-owned property to the Morgantown Land Reuse and Preservation Agency received unanimous first reading approval from Morgantown City Council on Tuesday.

The properties are spread across the city and represent a total of just 1.8 acres, almost exclusively in residential areas. One.03 acre parcel is located in service business (B-2) district.

The properties are what LRPA member David Satterfield previously described as largely unbuildable "odd lots." Some are narrow strips of land sandwiched between larger parcels or on the boundaries of neighborhoods. Others are triangular spits of land created by non-perpendicular street intersections.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Every department looked at all the parcels that the city had, and looked at the ones we didn't want or didn't have a use for, then we forwarded them on to MUB to make sure that they didn't have a use or a utility that ran through these properties, " Interim City Manager Damien Davis said.

Discussion of land conveyance between the city and LRPA stretches back more than a year as the agency sees the property as a chance to potentially generate some income for its mission while getting land back on the tax rolls.

Nine of the parcels have been identified as likely candidates for sideyard extensions, meaning the LRPA will approach neighboring property owners about purchasing the land. The agency has marked others for potential greenspace, trial connection or infill development uses.

The LRPA was created by the city in 2018 to pursue the acquisition, management, and disposition of property that's suitable for conservation, water quality protection, public space, affordable housing, and commercial uses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In its first real opportunity to stretch its legs, the agency was provided $600, 000 in American Rescue Plan Act money by the city with marching orders to focus on a blighted area of lower Greenmont  specifically, Pennsylvania Avenue.

While the agency has made significant progress in that effort, LRPA Chair Jessica McDonald said it's likely going to take additional funding, which the agency is seeking out from multiple sources, including the city.

"Generally speaking, once we accomplish this project, we will have accumulated 24 parcels and a total of 2.4 acres, for just a little bit over a million dollars, " McDonald said.

The current vision is to clear the Pennsylvania Avenue structures between the connection with Brockway Avenue and Deckers Creek Avenue, creating a shelf of creekside green space. The remaining land would be marketed for the development of affordable housing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"It's got such potential. You're looking out at all that green space. You're really close to the Deckers Creek Trail, and you've got great access to downtown and all of the thriving businesses that already exist in South Park and Greenmont, " McDonald said. "We don't know what the housing development is going to look like yet. We have some ideas about how we would like to see it. We would like to see something sustainable, something attractive, something that's truly a nice place to live."

Beyond Pennsylvania Avenue, McDonald said the agency is exploring ways to bring in enough revenue to stay active.

It's looking to the city to potentially assist with that.

McDonald explained some of the initiatives undertaken by land reuse agencies in the cities of Charleston and Nitro.

"What we really took away from our talks with Nitro and Charleston is that land reuse agencies work best in tight cooperation with city management, and really that's the only way that they are going to be successful, " she said. "They were very clear with us. They are not self-sustaining. They are not money makers, but they are a tool for cities to use to accomplish goals."
Gov. Patrick Morrisey ceremoniously signed Senate Bill 474 and Senate Bill 299 during an event in Hinton Wednesday. (Photo courtesy Morrisey's office)

West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey on Wednesday celebrated signing legislation that ends a narrow exception to the states ban on gender-affirming care for transgender minors as well as another bill ending diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in the state.

Morrisey held the ceremonial bill signings for Senate Bill 299 and SB 474 at the Summers County Memorial Building in Hinton on Wednesday morning.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2023, state lawmakers passed a strict ban on gender-affirming care for minors, including a ban on gender-affirming surgeries for minors. That law allowed children diagnosed with severe gender dysphoria to receive medical therapy, including hormonal treatment, if they are considered at risk for self-harm or suicide.

SB 299 ends that exception, banning hormone treatment for children diagnosed with severe gender dysphoria.

In 2023 the state passed laws banning these practices for minors but it left open a loophole, something you could drive a truck through, Morrisey said. And that was being used by doctors to continue mutilating our kids. So today I will also be ceremoniously signing Senate bill 299 to close that loophole, and officially end the practice of child mutilation in the state of West Virginia.

Gender-affirming surgeries are not being and have not been practiced on children in West Virginia, according to multiple medical experts and service providers who have testified at the Legislature over the last few years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Medical treatments for children with gender dysphoria can include prescribing certain hormones or hormone blockers, which delay the onset of puberty temporarily to stop the development of permanent physical characteristics that dont match the childs gender identity. Studies show these medical interventions are highly successful in preventing long term and serious psychological issues  including depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation, which are already more common in transgender youth and adults than their cisgender peers.

According to a 2024 survey by the LGBTQ advocacy nonprofit The Trevor Project, 51% of trans and non-binary children in West Virginia considered suicide in the previous year while 16% of them attempted suicide.

The bill passed with an 86-to-12 vote in the House of Delegates and a 32-to-2 vote in the Senate.

Proponents of the bill argued minors shouldnt be allowed to make a potentially irreversible decision. As minors, a patients parents or guardians would have had to consent to any medical treatments.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bill was opposed by the American Civil Liberties Union of West Virginia, who called gender affirming care life-saving.

Roughly 100 youth in the state are currently receiving gender-affirming care, and the measure will halt their medical care in August. The bill has exceptions to permit individuals with sex development issues or someone who has already undergone gender-affirming care surgery to continue receiving hormonal treatment.

Nationwide, states that have implemented bans on gender-affirming care for children have seen a significant increase in suicide attempts by transgender and gender nonconforming teenagers in the years following those bans taking effect.

Doctors warned West Virginia lawmakers during the session that if SB 299 were to become law, they will likely see an increase in anxiety, depression and suicide among the states trans and non-binary children.

Ending DEI in West Virginia

SB 474, ending DEI initiatives, was a priority for Morrisey. The bill bans the offering of specific services or opportunities to people based on their race, color, ethnicity, country of origin and, in some instances, sex. It applies to DEI policies and initiatives in state and local governments and schools, including institutions of higher education.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Morrisey on Wednesday called DEI programs a huge problem and said they were flourishing in the state.

Weve had to clean up that mess, and Im proud to do that, but this really matters and heres why it matters: I want everyone to understand that every person, every person should be treated with dignity and respect, Morrisey said. We should view people equally both under the eyes of God and the rule of law. Thats what this is about . Dont let anyone try to convince you that this is something other than that.

Democrats in the Senate have raised legal concerns about the legislation and a series of procedural irregularities when Republicans passed the legislation in the final minutes of the legislative session. The ACLU-WV has threatened to sue if the bill became law.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
Fu Cong (R, front), China's permanent representative to the United Nations, speaks at a side event of the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building at the UN headquarters in New York, May 6, 2025. China will support the central role of the United Nations in promoting global artificial intelligence (AI) governance, a Chinese envoy said on Tuesday. AI, as a strategic technology leading the new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation, is profoundly reshaping people's work and life, said Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, at a side event of the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building. (Xinhua/Xie E)

UNITED NATIONS, May 6 (Xinhua) -- China will support the central role of the United Nations in promoting global artificial intelligence (AI) governance, a Chinese envoy said on Tuesday.

AI, as a strategic technology leading the new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation, is profoundly reshaping people's work and life, said Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, at a side event of the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building.

Fu said that in October 2023, China put forward the Global AI Governance Initiative, offering China's approach to global AI governance -- AI governance should be discussed by all, promoted by all, and the benefits of AI shared by all.

"Capacity-building has long been a cornerstone of global AI governance," said Fu.

He recalled that in July 2024, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) adopted by consensus the resolution tabled by China together with the core group on AI capacity-building. After that, China launched the AI Capacity-Building Action Plan for Good and for All, and initiated, together with Zambia, the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building. These efforts are aimed at fostering broad partnerships, and taking concrete steps to implement the UNGA resolution and the Global Digital Compact, so as to make sure that the benefits of digital transformation are enjoyed by all, and that no country and no one is left behind.

"When it comes to AI capacity-building cooperation, China not only leads with initiatives, but also with actions," he said.

Fu noted that since the adoption of the UNGA resolution, China have convened two productive seminars in Beijing and Shanghai, bringing together over 180 participants from more than 40 countries. The seminars have provided valuable platforms to share best practices and discuss the way forward for global AI governance.

In addition, last month, China and Zambia sent questionnaires on behalf of the Group of Friends to the broader UN membership and international organizations, to solicit their views and expectations for the Group, he said, adding that based on the feedback, China will hold regular Group of Friends activities to facilitate policy exchanges, knowledge sharing, and practical cooperation.

The ambassador reaffirmed China's commitment to promoting AI for good and for all. "We will continue to uphold fairness and inclusiveness, respect and protect the rights of developing countries to develop and utilize AI on an equal footing, champion collaborative governance, and support the central role of the UN in promoting global AI governance," he stressed.

"I am confident that with our concerted efforts, we will be able to contribute to a more inclusive development of AI that is beneficial to all," Fu said. 

A side event of the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building is held at the UN headquarters in New York, May 6, 2025.

China will support the central role of the United Nations in promoting global artificial intelligence (AI) governance, a Chinese envoy said on Tuesday.

AI, as a strategic technology leading the new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation, is profoundly reshaping people's work and life, said Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, at a side event of the Group of Friends for International Cooperation on AI Capacity-Building. (Xinhua/Xie E)
Newark Airport has been experiencing major problems over the last 10 days, including a terrifying systems outage in the air traffic control operations last Monday.

At one point on April 28, the Philadelphia air traffic control facility that is responsible for sorting out planes entering and leaving Newark Airport temporarily lost its ability to communicate with pilots or monitor aircraft on radar. The entire ordeal reportedly lasted 60-to-90 seconds, but was enough to have longstanding effects.

One air traffic employee who was on duty described it to CNN as the "most dangerous situation you can have." The unnamed controller said he arrived back from break to see his colleagues navigating the fallout from the communications failure.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I dont want to say panic because panic isnt the right word, but it was hectic, the controller told CNN. We were trying to figure out whats working, whats not.

NEWARK, NJ - FEBRUARY 20: A United Airlines airplane sits parked at a gate at Newark Liberty International Airport on February 20, 2025, in Newark, New Jersey. Gary Hershorn/Getty Images

According to the controller, the outage was the result of a mishap involving a data feed connecting the FAA facility in Westbury, N.Y., which used to be in charge of Newark traffic, with the one in Philadelphia.

The feed had gone down at least twice before, the controller added.

On Wednesday, the FAA announced steps to "the reliability of operations at Newark Liberty International Airport." Included in the statement was a plan to add "three new, high-bandwidth telecommunications connections" between New York and Philadelphia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Other measures include replacing old copper cables with newer fiberoptic ones and installing a temporary backup system for Philadelphia, which will now become a hub to make it less dependent on New York.

A monitor shows flight delays at Newark International Airport on May 05, 2025, in Newark, New Jersey. Spencer Platt/Getty Images

Additionally, there are plans to increase controller staffing for Newark. The Philadelphia facility was reportedly understaffed to begin with, and that was before a portion of workers took leave following last week's outage under the Federal Employees Compensation Act, which enables employees who experienced a traumatic event at work to go on leave without penalty.

Newark Airport has been crippled by delays and flight cancelations since last week. The problems are a combination of the technological failures, short staffing and the shutdown of Runway 4L-22R, which handles nearly 47% of the airport's flight activity.

The runway is currently under renovation until June 15 but will also be closed on weekends between 11 p.m. Friday until 5 a.m. Sunday starting Sept. 1 and running through the end of the year.
SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  Most airports around the United States operated smoothly as new REAL ID requirements took effect Wednesday because travelers without the updated document were still allowed to move through security easily.

Those without the IDs were given pieces of paper informing them that going forward they would need to present REAL ID or other federally accepted ID for air travel within the U.S. It includes a QR code travelers can use to see a list of acceptable identifications.

The ID you presented is NOT REAL ID-compliant, the paper reads. You will need a REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification for your next flight or you may expect delays.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Suzy Roberts, a traveler who didn't have a REAL ID, passed through security without a hitch at Oakland airport in Northern California. Officials gave her the TSA handout, advised her to call the DMV to make an appointment, and said she might have to go through extra screening.

Im going through  theyre just gonna do extra security and theyll take my photo, Roberts explained as she waited for her bag to be screened before her flight to Los Angeles.

The relative calm at airports was bolstered by the fact that 81% of travelers already have REAL IDs, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

Nathan Carter was one of them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I feel pretty well prepared. Ive had real ID for a while, he said as he prepared to return home to Kansas City from Philadelphia.

The new requirement for domestic flights has been the subject of much discussion on social media in recent weeks, with people expressing confusion about whether they can travel without a REAL ID, sharing details about wait times and seeking advice on how to meet the requirements.

Airport security checkpoints also accepted passports and tribal identification as usual.

No lines at the airport, lines to get IDs

Many airports reported wait times of a few minutes at security checkpoints on their websites on Wednesday morning. LaGuardia Airport in New York City reported no wait at one TSA PreCheck checkpoint and wait times ranging from 2 to 11 minutes in the general lines. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airports website showed wait times at its security checkpoints ranging from 5 to 16 minutes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Nashville International Airport posted on social media that wait times were less than 20 minutes on Wednesday morning, but urged travels to help keep things running smoothly by brining a REAL ID.

The day ahead of the deadline, people lined up at government offices across the country to secure their compliant IDs. In Chicago, officials established a Real ID Supercenter for walk-in appointments, while officials in California and elsewhere planned to continue offering extended hours for the crush of appointments.

Michael Aceto waited in line at a DMV in King of Prussia, in the Philadelphia suburbs, for about two and a half hours Tuesday before getting his REAL ID.

Its a pain in the butt. Its really a lot of time. Everybodys got to take off from work to be here, he said. Its a big waste of time as far as Im concerned.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Travelers without REAL ID still will be able to fly

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem told a congressional panel on Tuesday that those who still lack an identification that complies with the REAL ID law may be diverted to a different line, have an extra step."

There's already an extra screening process in place for people who lose or forget their IDs while traveling.

It wasn't clear Wednesday how many people without REAL IDs were facing extra screening beyond being handed the TSA flier.

REAL ID is a federally compliant state-issued license or identification card that Homeland Security says is a more secure form of identification. It was a recommendation by the 9/11 Commission and signed into law in 2005. It was supposed to be rolled out in 2008 but the implementation had been repeatedly delayed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The whole idea here is to better validate those individuals that were encountering a checkpoint to ensure they are who exactly they say they are, said Thomas Carter, TSAs Federal Security Director in New Jersey.

If people without REAL IDs give themselves extra time, he said, they likely shouldn't miss their flights. "I do not have a belief that this will cause people to miss their flights if they take that additional time in.

REAL ID also will be needed for certain federal facilities

Besides serving as a valid form of identification to fly domestically, people will also need a REAL ID to access certain federal buildings and facilities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

State government offices that issue driver's licenses and state IDs have seen a significant increase in demand for REAL ID and some have extended their office hours to meet the demand. Some officials have recommended people delay getting REAL ID compliant licenses and cards if they don't have flights planned in the next few months.

Wait until after the current rush, said Erin Johnson, a spokesperson with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.

___

Associated Press writers Terry Chea in Oakland, California, and Tassanee Vejpongsa in Philadelphia contributed to this report.
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX)  Showers were abundant last night, and it seems to be the last big chance for rain for the week. As youre heading out the door today, there is about a 20 percent chance of showers for the Grand Valley, but definitely nothing compared to the 60 percent chances the western slope was seeing yesterday. Today, temperatures will reach the low seventies. Tonight, expect conditions to clear slowly with temperatures hitting the mid to upper forties



A warming trend begins today with high temperatures 10 to 15 degrees above normal moving in for the weekend. Afternoon showers and storms develop each afternoon through the weekend, mainly over the higher terrain.



The low pressure system responsible for our recent stretch of active weather moves onto the Great Plains today, but not before delivering one last day of scattered showers and storms with wrap-around flow and moisture lingering across the region. Aside from a slight amount of rainfall near the Colorado/Utah state line this morning, there will be a lack of organized forcing to initiate convection, so today`s precipitation will be primarily driven by daytime heating. Scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms will favor the high terrain but may move into adjacent valleys as well. Lightning and gusty outflow winds are the main threats of any thunderstorms that get going. Otherwise, pockets of light to moderate rainfall round out today`s impacts.



Overall, expect some chances for showers today around the Grand Valley, but nothing like yesterday!

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 WesternSlopeNow.com.
SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS)  A Shreveport woman was arrested after a child was found running naked during a rainstorm, and police found unsanitary conditions in the home.

Police say on Tuesday, around 5:30 p.m., a bus driver reported finding a child, approximately 3 years old, running naked in the street during a rainstorm and near Sussex Avenue and Corbett Street. When patrol officers arrived, the bus driver had already allowed the child to take shelter on the bus.

SPD investigators were led to a home in the 5300 block of Sussex Avenue after the child indicated she lived there. When they arrived, officers found that the front door did not have a functional doorknob. They announced their presence in the home and were met by the childs mother, Kaneesha Williams.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Louisiana senator authors bill modifying child abuse, neglect laws

A welfare check of the home revealed unsanitary living conditions. The house was unfurnished, littered with trash, and had dirty dishes piled in the sink. The kitchen appeared to have been uncleaned for an extended period. Officers also reported no refrigerator and no food in the home.

Officers discovered that multiple children resided in the home, and a single mattress was found on the floor surrounded by clothing. The bathroom was unsanitary, and the bathtubs were filled with feces and urine. Officers also determined that there was no working plumbing in the home.

Williams was arrested and faces four counts of criminal neglect of family, one count for each child. Case workers with the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services and Shreveport Juvenile Detectives were called to the scene.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

SPD reminds members of the community to report these tragic cases of neglect and aid the communitys most vulnerable and voiceless population  its children.

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.
When a driver hit and killed two women pushing a baby boy in a stroller in Winnetka on Friday, Mudassir Rashid and other family members were left in shock.

His wife, Sediqeh Asra Samadi, 37, of Kenilworth, a chemical engineer who worked at Abbott Labs, was one of the victims. The other was her mother, Saeideh Sigari, a 58-year-old teacher who was visiting from Iran and had been excited to meet her only grandson for the first time.

Samadi and Rashids 4-month-old son, Yusuf, who was in the stroller, has been hospitalized at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge in critical condition, said Rashid, an assistant professor and director of the pharmaceutical engineering program at Illinois Institute of Technology, also called Illinois Tech, in Chicago.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sediqeh is the kindest and gentlest soul I ever knew, Rashid said. She is a highly accomplished chemical engineer.

Professor Ali Cinar, who was Samadis research advisor at Illinois Tech as she was working toward her Ph.D., which she earned six years ago, had the highest praise for her.

She (Samadi) was someone always ready to assist others, do her best and make sure everyone was well taken care of, said Cinar, professor of chemical engineering and director of the Engineering Center for Diabetes Research and Education at Illinois Tech, where he is a colleague of Rashid. As a researcher, she did an excellent job, and published several papers in high-quality journals. It is quite a loss.

He (Rashid) is devastated. He went from having a happy wife and a blossoming baby to just clinging to his son, Cinar said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The two women were walking on the sidewalk, pushing the baby in the stroller, when a vehicle jumped the curb and hit them, Rashid said.

Cinar said he visited the young family a week ago to meet their baby.

Seeing them together was the picture of happiness, he said.

Now Rashid faces an unimaginable burden, Cinar said.

Two deaths, and a five-month-old baby is in a condition that one shouldnt ever see a child in that state, he said.

Sigari was a beloved teacher in Iran before her retirement, and as she looked forward to her visit in the United States, It was her greatest wish to see and hold (baby Yusuf), Rashid said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sediqehs father, sister and two brothers were also excited for Yusuf to grow up so the families could reunite in Iran. But unfortunately, that reunion was never meant to be. Sediqehs family in Iran is currently struggling to cope with the loss of two cherished members.

Rashid said Samadi came to the United States in February 2014 to pursue her Ph.D. in chemical engineering at the Illinois Institute of Technology. She earned her bachelors and masters degrees from the University of Tehran and Sharif University of Technology, which Cinar said would be the equivalent of CalTech or MIT in the United States.

After completing her Ph.D., Rashid said she worked for a time at Procter & Gamble in their research and development division as an expert in process modeling.

Cinar said because of her specialty area, Abbott was interested in her and she went to work for them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rashid said her work at Abbott was as a designer and developer of medical devices for people with diabetes.

She had a deep passion for her work and was committed to improving the quality of life for people with diabetes through innovative medical technologies. Her colleagues remarked that she was a remarkable person, an essential and integral part of the team, and that her absence will be profoundly felt by all, Rashid said.

Cinar noted that Abbott makes a medical device called the Libre, which measures diabetes patients glucose levels and conveys that information through an app.

She (Samadi) was working to improve the next generation of the product, Cinar said, explaining that the device reduces or eliminates the need for diabetic patients to repeatedly prick their fingers for drops of blood so that a different device can check their glucose levels.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She was very good at what she did, Cinar said.

A spokeswoman for the Cook County Sheriffs Office, which is handling the case because the crash occurred on a portion of land that was never legally incorporated into the village of Winnetka, said it is still under investigation.

The sheriffs office said in a statement Saturday that a vehicle traveling southbound on Church Road struck two female pedestrians and an infant in a stroller at the intersection with Meadow Road, and that the infant was in critical condition at a hospital, one pedestrian was pronounced deceased at the scene and the other at a local hospital. It also said the driver and passenger were taken to a hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. There is no indication of foul play at this point, but the investigation is ongoing, the statement said.

In response to an inquiry about baby Yusuf, Katie Dahlstrom, communications manager for Advocate Childrens Hospital, said, per the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), we are unable to release information regarding a minor.
JERUSALEM (AP)  Ruhama Bohbot was at home watching the news when she heard U.S. President Donald Trump say something new: Three of the 24 hostages Israel considered to be alive in Gaza had probably died.

As of today, its 21, three have died, Trump said during a swearing-in ceremony for his special envoy to the Middle East.

Bohbot, who lives outside of Jerusalem, froze in terror  and then fury. Her 36-year-old son, Elkana, has been captive in Gaza since being abducted by Hamas-led militants on Oct. 7, 2023.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No Israeli officials have reached out to the Bohbot family to say the number of hostages believed to be alive had changed. Yet Bohbot thought back to a public event last week, when Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said 24 of the hostages still in Gaza were alive. A mic picked up his wife, Sara, as she quietly said, fewer.

Later, Netanyahus office dismissed the moment as a slip of the tongue.

So were just continuing to live in hope that everything will be OK ... even amidst all of the things that are not OK. Because its impossible to know, Bohbot said.

Netanyahu said late Wednesday Israel was confident that 21 of the 59 remaining hostages are still alive but that there was doubt about three others. An Israeli official said the three, who he did not identify, are considered alive until there is evidence proving otherwise. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive details.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If there is new information being kept from us, give it to us immediately, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, an advocacy group, said Wednesday.

Hamas militants killed some 1,200 people and kidnapped 251 during their cross-border attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. Elkana Bohbot and dozens of others were captured from a music festival, where more than 300 people were killed.

Israels offensive has killed more than 52,000 people in Gaza, many of them women and children, according to Palestinian health officials. The officials do not distinguish between combatants and civilians in their count.

Hamas has published three videos of Elkana Bohbot in the past months which were filmed under duress. In the most recent video, from mid-April, Elkana holds a fake telephone conversation with his wife, Rivka; their son, Raem; his mother; and his brother  pleading with them to help him get out of Gaza.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While the videos were a sign of life, Bohbot knows that they dont guarantee that her son is still alive. Hearing the governments approval this week to expand operations in Gaza deepened her concern about the fate of her son and the other hostages. Israel is failing so utterly to rescue the hostages, she said.

Israels decision to freeze all humanitarian aid likely meant her son also wasnt getting food, she said. Humanitarian aid is the primary food source for 80% of Palestinians in Gaza, the World Food Program said in its monthly report for April, though that figure has likely risen in the past month.

Israel stopped all humanitarian aid in March, the longest period there has been a freeze on humanitarian aid during the war, leading many organizations to warn of severe malnutrition and hunger in Gaza.

I just want to imagine that hes holding on and that hes okay for now, thats my hope and thats my belief right now, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bohbot is desperately hoping that Trumps visit to the region next week may bring a breakthrough in ceasefire negotiations. Her family is still paying rent on a stall at a market in Tel Aviv, where Elkana had been planning to open a gourmet ice cream shop.

The family will mark Raems fifth birthday next month  his second during his fathers captivity. Raem has started saying things like if my daddy comes home, to which the family gently corrects him  your daddy is coming home, just wait a little bit longer, Bohbot said.

He has binoculars that he made in kindergarten, he goes out occasionally and takes a look in the binoculars to look for his father, Bohbot said.
It's almost time once again to celebrate the mothers and mother figures in our lives.

Mother's Day is just days away and the May holiday is a time to commemorate the women in our lives who are mothers in one form or another, and to remember those who have been lost along the way.

The holiday is more than a century old and usually includes celebrations, gifts and quality time with your loved ones, so it is best to plan ahead.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Here's when Mother's Day is in 2025 and some gift ideas for Tennesseans looking for that special something to spoil the moms in their life.

When is Mother's Day 2025?

Mother's Day 2025 falls on Sunday, May 11.

Depending on where you are in the world, Mother's Day may be on a different day than it is in the United States.

In the United Kingdom, Mother's Day is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent, which is also known as "Mothering Sunday." Thailand celebrates Mother's Day on August 12 as it is the birthday of former Queen Sirikit.

Countries like Japan, Italy and Brazil all celebrate Mother's Day like the U.S. on the second Sunday of May.

Which came first, Mother's Day or Father's Day?

Mother's Day did. The first celebration happened in West Virginia in 1908.

When was the first Mother's Day?

Mother's Day has a history dating back to the Greeks and Romans, according to the History Channel. There were even early Christian celebrations with a festival called "Mothering Sunday," which is still celebrated in the United Kingdom.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The first Mother's Day celebration in the United States happened in a Methodist church in Grafton, West Virginia, in 1908, thanks to Anna Jarvis. It wasn't officially recognized as a holiday in the rest of the U.S until 1914, according to History.com. At that time, President Woodrow Wilson established the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day.

Mother's Day deals: Find the perfect gift for mom

If you're on the hunt for the perfect gift for the mother in your life, take a look at some of the sales that are happening:

A timeless gift: Gifts she'll love: Save 15% on timeless Mother's Day jewelry at Angara

For the active mom: Save 25% on all Athleta activewear at the Mother's Day sale

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For the cate mom: Mother's Day gifts for cat moms are $75 off at Litter-Robot 

For the mom who loves to cook: HexClad's exclusive Mother's Day cookware sets are up to $1,456 off 

Ideas for the mom who has everything: Here's your ultimate Mother's Day 2025 gift guide to spoil mom like she deserves

When is Father's Day 2025?

In June, we celebrate fathers. This year, Father's Day is Sunday, June 15.

Who came up with Father's Day?

Father's Day had several incarnations before becoming an official holiday like Mother's Day.

The first known event in West Virginia in 1908 was proposed by Grace Golden Clayton. A year later, on the opposite side of the country Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington, proposed the idea of a day to honor the fathers of the community after being inspired by Jarvis and her single father who raised her and five brothers after her mother died in child birth, according to the Farmer's Almanac.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The 27 year old's idea also led us to celebrate Father's Day in June.

The first, widely publicized, Father's Day event happened on June 19, 1910. It was a hit and led to the question of; should Father's Day be a recognized U.S. holiday?

It wouldn't happen until Dodd was in her 90s.

When did Father's Day become a holiday?

Fathers didn't have their own official holiday until 1972. You may be wondering why it took so long for Father's Day to become holiday and it's because many men didn't want it, according to the Farmer's Almanac.

For the first half of the 20th century, men played a different role in the family. It was felt by many men, in the patriarchal society, that a special day to exalt fatherhood was a "silly" idea, when it was the mothers who were underappreciated, according to Lawrence R. Samuel, the author of"American Fatherhood: A Cultural History".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 1913, President Woodrow Wilson tried to have Father's Day become a holiday, but it failed to pass through congress. Eight years later, President Calvin Coolidge signed a resolution to establish more intimate relations between fathers and their children and to impress upon fathers the full measure of their obligations.

But as times changed and the role of a father, so did the notion of having a holiday.

More than 40 years after Coolidge's resolution, an executive order was signed by then President Lydon Johnson that had Father's Day celebrated on the third Sunday in June. Congress didn't make it a national holiday until 1972.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: When is Mother's Day 2025? Here's when and how to find the perfect gift
The legacy of Dr. J. Marion Sims in Montgomery is hard for many to imagine.

Starting in 1845, the "father of modern gynecology" inflicted painful surgeries on at least three enslaved women  Anarcha, Lucy, and Betsey  without their consent. There have been reports of many more unnamed Black women he experimented on. Because he believed Black women didn't feel pain the same as White women, he performed the surgeries without available anesthesia.

Likely, the closest we'll come to visualizing this horror these women faced is a 1952 painting by Robert Thom  "J. Marion Sims: Gynecologic Surgeon." Thanks to years of effort by Montgomery organizer, activist and artist Michelle Browder, the original painting will go on exhibit in Montgomery, beginning on Mother's Day weekend.

Activist and artist Michelle Browder is overcome with emotion as the 1952 painting J. Marion Sims: Gynecologic Surgeon arrives at the Mother of Gynecology Museum in Montgomery, Ala., on Thursday, May 1, 2025.

More: J. Marion Sims: Career and honors built on torture in Alabama

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"It shows J. Marion Sims in the backyard of the hospital in Montgomery, Alabama," Browder said. "I've been working for four and a half years to get this painting to Montgomery."

Thom found a way to illustrate the experiment without going into graphic detail. The painting shows Lucy kneeling on a table, a hand at her chest, as she stares into the eyes of J.M. Sims. Anarcha and Betsey peek around a curtain into the room, where two other men appear ready to assist the doctor.

"It's major," said Browder, who has spent years studying the painting and the story behind it.

As a 19-year-old college student, she first saw an image of it in postcard form on her professor's desk. While trying to find its origins, she discovered the story of Anarcha, Lucy, and Betsey. That study has fueled her message as an artist and activist. It led her to create The Mothers of Gynecology Monument, 17 Mildred St., Montgomery.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kevin King, founder and executive director of King's Canvas in Montgomery, said he's impressed that Browder acquired the painting.

"The work that she's doing is phenomenal," King said.

Three-day weekend is a fundraiser for a museum to open in 2026

Activist and artist Michelle Browder talks over plans for the Mother of Gynecology Museum in Montgomery, Ala., on Thursday, May 1, 2025.

Introducing the painting to the city where the surgeries took place is part of a three-day ticketed group of events that are fundraisers for the future Mothers Gynecology Clinical Museum, where the painting will reside in downtown Montgomery.

The weekend offers an early peek in the museum, which officially opens in 2026.

"People are coming from around the country to see (the painting)," Browder said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It will be a focal point of the "Reclaiming Our Time" exhibit at the museum site, 33 S. Perry St. A facility at that site in the 1840s is where J.M. Sims conducted his experiments.

"There's a sign on the outside that talks about Sims," Browder said.

More: Michigan artist Robert Thom illustrated windows into history

The future museum site will also contain art by Browder, creator of The Mothers of Gynecology Monument (17 Mildred St.), and curated works by other artists.

Molly Gochman  An experiential artist and activist who invites viewers "to reflect on and participate in the experience of humanity."

Steve Ekpenisi  Known as The Iron Bender, Ekpenisi crafts metal sculptures inspired by socio-economic and political realities, cultural traditions, and the richness of human beauty.

How long with the painting be in Montgomery?

Activist and artist Michelle Browder gets a first glance at the 1952 painting J. Marion Sims: Gynecologic Surgeon by Robert Thom at the Mother of Gynecology Museum in Montgomery, Ala., on Monday, May 5, 2025. The painting will be on display as Browder continues to honor the enslaved women Anarcha, Betsy and Lucy the enslaved women Sims experimented on.

Elaine Sims  no relation to J.M. Sims  is director of Gifts of Art for University of Michigan where the painting has resided for years. She said there's not a fixed date for the painting to be in Montgomery, but that it will be on loan for at least a year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The way we do loans, we renew it year by year," Sims said.

Sims said the painting has been off public display in Michigan due to the controversy surrounding J.M. Sims.

"It's disturbing for some people," Sims said. "We used it for educational purposes. It was housed in our museum, and different classes would use it to talk about medical discrepancies."

Schedule of events for May 9-11

Friday, May 9:

Reception at the Mothers of Gynecology Monument, 17 Mildred St. Gates open at 5 p.m., and the reception is from 6-8 p.m. The evening includes a light dinner and live music.

Saturday, May 10:

10 a.m.1 p.m: The Mothers of Gynecology Monument Tour  Visit the Alabama River site of the Montgomery Brawl before boarding a boat to Freedom Monument Park. Later, enjoy a light lunch at We Create Change Art Studio with Browder.

5:30-6:30 p.m.: Tour of The Mothers of Gynecology Clinic  Experience the historic space where these horrific experiments happened to Anarcha, Lucy, and Betsey.

6:30-9 p.m.: Broken Wings Still Fly  A dinner theater experience  In collaboration with the Unknown Project, this stage production tells the stories of enslaved women through the lens of love, resilience, motherhood, and triumph. Held at the historic site where Sims conducted his experiments, this event will include traditional "slave food" including collard greens, black-eyed peas, and hoe cakes.

Sunday, May 11:

12:30-3:30 p.m Reclaiming Our Time  The exhibit will officially unveil Thoms seldom seen painting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The day will also include:

A program and guided tour of the future Mothers of Gynecology Clinical Museum.

Keynote address by Dr. Joia Crear-Perry, founder and president of the National Birth Equity Collaborative.

Ticket Information

Tickets are available at anarchalucybetsey.org, and are available in the following options:

Full weekend experience  $125

Dinner theater performance only  $85

Unveiling ceremony only  $50

Montgomery Advertiser reporter Shannon Heupel covers things to do in the River Region. Contact him at sheupel@gannett.com

This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Mothers of Gynecology: Sims painting going on exhibit in Montgomery
A motorcyclist was killed after they broadsided a sedan crossing a street in Hawthorne on Tuesday night, according to police.

The Hawthorne Police Department issued a media release early Wednesday morning stating that officers responded to reports of a traffic collision involving a motorcyclist just before 9 p.m. near the intersection of 120th Street and Freeman Avenue, in between Hawthorne Boulevard and Prairie Avenue.

When the officers arrived, they located the heavily damaged motorcycle and a sedan, and the unresponsive motorcyclist was found lying in the roadway.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Female motorist shot to death in Orange County; passenger escapes uninjured

Fire personnel provided emergency medical care on scene and transported the motorcyclist to a nearby trauma center, the media release reads. Unfortunately, the motorcyclist was later pronounced deceased at the medical facility.

No details surrounding their identity were released.

A motorcyclist was killed after they broadsided a sedan crossing a street in Hawthorne on Tuesday night, according to police. (KTLA) A motorcyclist was killed after they broadsided a sedan crossing a street in Hawthorne on Tuesday night, according to police. (KTLA)

HPDs preliminary investigation revealed that the motorcyclist was traveling eastbound on 120th when the sedan attempted to cross the street northbound at Cedar Avenue.

This movement resulted in the motorcycle broadsiding the crossing vehicle, police said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Female shot to death in Montebello apartment; man found dead nearby

Video obtained by KTLA shows crews working to clear debris from the scene. The area was blocked off but reopened by 4 a.m. Wednesday.

Whether impairment was a factor in the crash was not disclosed by authorities.

Anyone with information that may aid the ongoing investigation  including witnesses and those with relevant video footage  are encouraged to contact the Hawthorne Police Department Traffic Bureau: 310-349-2701.

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.
U.S. President Donald Trump (R) waits to welcome Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on May 6, 2025. The United States will stop strikes against Yemen's Houthi group, President Donald Trump said Tuesday, after a nearly two-month bombing campaign. Trump, ahead of a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, said the halt would start immediately, after the Houthis approached the administration on Monday night indicating "they want to stop the fighting." (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

WASHINGTON, May 6 (Xinhua) -- The United States will stop strikes against Yemen's Houthi group, President Donald Trump said Tuesday, after a nearly two-month bombing campaign.

Trump, ahead of a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, said the halt would start immediately, after the Houthis approached the administration on Monday night indicating "they want to stop the fighting."

"The Huthis have announced ... that they don't want to fight anymore. They just don't want to fight," said Trump. "We will honor that, and we will stop the bombings ... and they have capitulated."

The military has struck at least 800 targets in Yemen and killed hundreds of Houthis since March, according to U.S. Central Command. 

U.S. President Donald Trump (C) waits to welcome Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on May 6, 2025. The United States will stop strikes against Yemen's Houthi group, President Donald Trump said Tuesday, after a nearly two-month bombing campaign. Trump, ahead of a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, said the halt would start immediately, after the Houthis approached the administration on Monday night indicating "they want to stop the fighting." (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)
Four former housekeepers for Motown legend Smokey Robinson have accused him of sexual assault, alleging in a lawsuit that he repeatedly abused some of them for years.

The suit, filed Tuesday in Los Angeles County Superior Court, alleges that the assaults largely occurred at Robinsons home in Chatsworth, California, northwest of downtown Los Angeles.

The plaintiffs, identified in the 27-page complaint as Jane Does 1-4, seek damages totaling no less than $50 million, according to the complaint.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Obviously, no amount can compensate these women for what Mr. Robinson subjected them to, one of their lawyers, John Harris, told reporters Tuesday.

But given the gravity of Robinsons alleged misconduct, Harris said, this amount is clearly warranted.

Representatives for Robinson, whose real name is William Robinson Jr., did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Wearing masks to protect their privacy, three of the women appeared in person at a news conference in Los Angeles. A fourth attended remotely. Harris said there was a common thread between them.

They were Hispanic women employed as housekeepers earning below minimum wage, Harris said. As low-wage workers in vulnerable positions, they lacked the resources and options to protect themselves.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They did not come forward previously because they feared missing a paycheck, he said. Some of the plaintiffs worked for Robinson at the same time, Harris said, though they were too embarrassed to reveal the alleged assaults.

Breaking that silence prompted an avalanche of emotion, he added.

The suit alleges that Robinson assaulted one woman at least 23 times from May 2014 to February 2020, often in places in his home without security cameras.

The suit alleges that he assaulted another former employee at least 20 times during the 12 years she worked for him, beginning in 2012. According to the suit, Robinson would force her into his bedroom and perform a ritual of leaving his bathroom naked or nearly naked.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the suit, Robinson would then place a towel on his bed so the linens would not be soiled for what was about to occur.

The suit says he subjected two other plaintiffs to the same behavior. One of the former housekeepers worked for Robinson for 13 months, during which, she alleges, he assaulted her at least seven times.

Smokey Robinson in Los Angeles on April 6. (Amy Sussman / Getty Images file)

In a desperate attempt to him to stop his sexual assaults, the suit says of this plaintiff, she would proclaim youre married.

The suit accuses Robinson of ignoring her pleas.

According to the suit, another plaintiff said that if she refused to have sex with Robinson, he would threaten to have his wife, Frances Robinson, be mean to her.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

All of the plaintiffs accused Frances Robinson, who is also named as a defendant, of perpetuating a hostile work environment by screaming at them and using ethnically pejorative language.

Another former housekeeper who later worked as Frances Robinsons personal assistant, cook and hairdresser accused Smokey Robinson of first assaulting her in 2007 at his Las Vegas home, according to the suit.

The suit accuses Robinson of assaulting the woman, identified as JD4, more than a decade later, at a temporary home in Bell Canyon and at his home in Chatsworth.

When the other housekeeper(s) would leave the residence, Defendant Smokey Robinson would summon her to his blue bedroom while sitting naked on his bed, the suit says. He would then lock the door and place a towel down on the bed. After doing so, he would pull JD4s clothes off, and against her protestations, push her down on the bed and proceed to rape her.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Robinson never wore a condom during the assaults, according to the suit.

In addition to losing their incomes, the suit says, the plaintiffs did not report Robinson to authorities for fear of reprisal and public embarrassment. Three said they were worried about possible adverse effects on their immigration statuses.

Robinson was a pioneer for Motown Records, founding the vocal group the Miracles in the 1950s and later releasing albums as a solo artist and working as a record executive for the label. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1987.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCBD)  The Town of Mount Pleasants planning committee is expected to recommend several options to council to preserve settlement communities.

Many representatives from the towns settlement communities and council members spoke during the public comment period at the meeting. They urged the committee to take action on protecting these communities now before its too late, as development is expected to grow in the East Cooper area.

Our communities are losing ground, Myra Richardson, president of Hamlin Beach Community Association, said. Two major differences, we have a historic preservation committee with the district in Charleston County, and we have a moratorium. In the article that was stated in March I believe, youre going to have more people come into the Town of Mount Pleasant because theyll get around the moratorium.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Officials who spoke said there is a loophole for developers, and to close that, they believe a Mount Pleasant moratorium can save them. Currently, the historic areas are in unincorporated Charleston County, where there is an ongoing two year moratorium. However, developers can request the town to annex parts of these properties nearby which would allow them to build. Many cited the importance to protect these areas.

You think of all the generations that have bled sweat and tears, its unique. Theyve been there since the end of the Civil War; you cant recreate the history and the connection of families. I believe thats part of our history and its worth protecting. Its unique in Charleston County, its unique in America, Larry Kobrovsky, councilmember of Charleston County, said.

Kobrovsky represents constituents who live in settlement communities, and he voiced his concerns among theirs. He added that the town must act now or there wont be a chance to manage the population and overdevelopment in the future.

We have a moratorium in place. We need to work together and preserve the historic settlement communities and not allow more congestion wheres there no infrastructure. If we dont stop it there, all that congestion and traffic  there will be subdivisions all the way to McClellanville which I will do everything in my power to stop. I dont think we need that, we dont want it, we need to keep those areas rural, said Kobrovsky.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The committee is recommending to council that they begin dialogue with the county to work together, create a settlement community group, and put a moratorium in place. Richardson hopes the town council will approve these measures before allowing development.

We ask that you do not annex these properties in until this panel is established, until you have your system set up the way Charleston County is set up with the moratorium for our communities on four houses being built at a time. Richardson said. Were just asking you to protect our history, our heritage, our legacy.

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 WCBD News 2.
Graeme Davidson is facing charges of murder (domestic violence), fraud and attempted fraud over the killing of his wife Jacqueline Davidson

Jacqueline drowned while the couple were on a kayaking trip at Lake Samsonvale in Queensland, Australia, on Nov. 27, 2020

Authorities allege Graeme tried to claim a $1 million life insurance payout after Jacqueline's death

A man is facing multiple charges in connection with the 2020 death of his wife after it was initially reported to police that she accidentally drowned during a kayaking trip, authorities in Australia said.

Graeme Davidson, 55, was arrested on May 4 and charged with murder (domestic violence), fraud and attempted fraud in relation to the death of his wife, Jacqueline Davidson, 54, according to reports from News.com.au, 7News Australia and The Guardian, which cite court documents. It's unclear if he has entered a plea or retained an attorney to speak on his behalf.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The suspect was taken into custody by police during a trip to Brisbane from Thailand, where he had been living recently, the Queensland Police Service said in a May 5 press release. Police did not share the suspect and victims name in the press release but confirmed to PEOPLE that the two were married at the time of the killing.

On Nov. 27, 2020, the couple were kayaking on Lake Samsonvale near Forgan Cove when the woman reportedly fell into the water and drowned, police said. When they got back to shore, witnesses and emergency personnel performed CPR. However, she could not be resuscitated and was pronounced dead at the scene, per the release.

Google Maps Lake Samsonvale in Queensland, Australia. Lake Samsonvale in Queensland, Australia.

The woman's death was initially believed to be an accident, but after obtaining expert statements, including the conditions of the lake at the time of her death, and information from witnesses, the woman is now believed to have been murdered, according to police.

This led to the arrest of Graeme, whom authorities allege was involved in the death of his wife. He was denied bail and appeared in Brisbane Magistrates Court on May 5, per the release.

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.

Detective Acting Inspector Steve Windsor told reporters this week that Graeme allegedly tried to claim a $1 million life insurance payout after Jacquelines death, The Guardian reported. Windsor added that investigators believe some form of breakdown in the relationship occurred around the time Jacqueline was killed, per the outlet.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Incidents are not always what they initially seem, so I thank the detectives for their diligent work in this lengthy and arduous investigation, Windsor said in the press release. Through their tenacious work, we have justice for the woman who tragically died that day as well as her family."

He added, "This is also an important reminder to the community to report any suspicious circumstances to police as you see them. Even if they seem insignificant, they may be an important piece to the puzzle in an investigation."



Read the original article on People
Jia Zhangkes Caught by the Tides is less than two hours long and yet contains nearly a quarter-century of times relentless march forward.

Few films course with history the way it does in the Chinese masters latest, an epic collage that spans 21 years. Jia undertook the film during the pandemic, assembling a mix of fiction and documentary, including images from his earlier films as well as newly shot scenes.

That might sound like a mishmash kind of moviemaking. But for Jia, the preeminent cinematic chronicler of 21st century China, its a remarkably cohesive, even profound vessel for capturing what has most interested him as a filmmaker: the tidal wave-sized currents of technological progress and social transmutation that wash over a lifetime.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The high-speed upheavals of modern China are, of course, a fitting setting for such interests. Jias films are often most expressed in their surroundings  in vistas of infrastructure that dwarf his protagonists. Fans of Jia will recognize some from his previous films. For me, theres never been a more moving backdrop from him than the rubble and mass displacement of the Three Gorges Dam project (seen here, as in his 2008 film Still Life).

Caught by the Tides is ostensibly about Qiaoqiao (Zhao Tao, Jias wife and muse) and her lover Bin (Li Zhubin), whom she searches for years after a row sent them in different directions. But in Caught by the Tides, these characters are more like life rafts bobbing in expansive waters, making their way aimlessly.

The poetry of Caught by the Tides comes from a grander arc. In one of the films opening scenes, shot on grainy digital film, women in a Datong city room laugh together, singing old, half-remembered songs. The films final scenes, set more than two decades later in the southern city of Zhuhai, are more crisply photographed and depict a more impersonal world of smartphones, robots and QR codes. For a moment, Jia even adopts the perspective of a surveillance camera.

Another moment: a shot, from pre-digital times, drifting down a street with men looking back at us, smoking and mildly curious. Cut then to what might be the same street years later, where a woman parades as a model in front of a sprawling shopping mall.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In Caught by the Tides, these changes go unexplained and unspoken. But the evolutions they chart are deeply familiar to anyone who has lived through even some of these years, in China or elsewhere. We see how people once moved differently, spoke differently and sang differently. Progress and loss exist together as one. Zhao and Li age through the film, leaving them weathered, too, by time. A song late in the film goes: I cant grasp the warmth we once shared.

Caught by the Tides, a Sideshow and Janus Films release, is unrated by the Motion Picture Association. In Mandarin. Running time: 116 minutes. Three and a half stars out of four.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A gun stolen during a rash of vehicle break-ins at an East Memphis gym was used in a deadly shooting in Hickory Hill over the weekend, police say.

MPD said the weapon that was recovered in the suspects car was one of two handguns stolen from vehicles parked at Golds Gym on White Station Road more than a year ago.

Just before 9 p.m. Saturday, a man was shot and killed outside an apartment building in the 9000 block of Ridge Drive. Police said they found a blood trail leading to the parking lot and five 9mm shell casings.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

MPD: Man turns himself in downtown after deadly shooting

According to police, a few hours after the shooting, Raffael Newman, 44, walked into 201 Poplar downtown and told a Shelby County Deputy he was responsible for the shooting and told them where they could find the gun.

Raffael Newman (SCSO).

Man shot and killed in 4000 block of Ridge Road in Hickory Hill Saturday night.

The black Heckler & Koch VP 9mm was reported stolen on June 2, 2024.

Gun thefts from vehicles continue to be a big problem in Memphis and those guns are being used to commit crimes.

Recent numbers from the Memphis Shelby Crime Commission show that 2,868 guns were stolen in Memphis last year, and 56% of those were from stolen cars.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Car theft attempt turns into shooting at TJ Mulligans in Midtown: MPD

In 2023, MPD reported that 40% of guns used in crimes were stolen, but it is unclear how many of those weapons were involved in violent crimes.

Car break-ins have skyrocketed in Memphis in recent years, and police say most of the time, thieves are looking for guns.

MPD continues to urge gun owners to remove firearms from their vehicles or secure them in a safe when leaving them unattended.

There are around 70,000 registered gun owners in Shelby County. A Tennessee law passed in 2014 allowed gun permit holders to keep guns in their vehicles without a permit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 WREG.com.
Passengers who have not got Real ID compliant identification have been warned to expect delays at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport starting Wednesday, when federal requirements go into effect.

The post-9/11 security upgrades almost 20 years in the making go active on May 7, but Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said on Tuesday that those who are not compliant will still be allowed to board domestic flights.

However, those who don't have a passport of a Real ID compliant identification " though will have to go through extra security checks "may be diverted to a different line, have an extra step," Noem said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

MSP Airport issued an advisory for passengers on Tuesday, warning passengers who "do not have their Real ID or another TSA-acceptable form of ID"  such as a passport  " to expect "delays," additional screening," and "the possibility of not being allowed into the security checkpoint."

In Minnesota, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) reports that just 40.82% of residents had a REAL ID as of April 1, 2025. The state began issuing the IDs in October 2018.

Metropolitan Airports Commission

What ID do you need to avoid the delays?

Flying in the U.S. will require a REAL ID drivers license or state-issued ID, a Minnesota Enhanced drivers license or identification card, or a different federally approved form of identification.

That latter category, as outlined by the DPS, includes U.S. passports, foreign passports, permanent resident cards, border crossing cards, federally recognized tribal-issued photo IDs, U.S. Department of Defense IDs, or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Cards (I-766).

How to get a Real ID in Minnesota

A REAL ID-compliant drivers license requires additional documentation when applying for a license or other state ID. Its indicated on licenses in Minnesota by a yellow circle with a star in the middle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Acquiring the ID requires one approved document proving your identity, date of birth, and legal U.S. presence. Acceptable documents include a birth certificate, a passport, a permanent resident card, or a certificate of citizenship, per the DPS, which has details on its site.

Youll also need to know your Social Security number and provide two documents that prove your current Minnesota residency. Approved documents in that category include a current Minnesota drivers license, an income tax return, a utility bill, or a credit card statement. More details on those requirements, acceptable documents, and other details are available in this guide from the DPS.

Additionally, if youve had a name change, the department says residents will need to show proof of each name change.
(COLORADO SPRINGS)  May showers bring May flowers? Moisture made its appearance in Colorado on Monday, May 5, and while it was much-needed, the system will finally conclude on Wednesday evening, May 7.

Snow and rain impacted various parts of Southern Colorado, with most of the precipitation impacting the area on Tuesday.

We forecast a widespread 1.5 to 3 of liquid, with this storm, said Matt Meister, FOX21 Storm Team Chief Meteorologist. We also thought a few spots right up against the mountains could get between 3 and 5. We nailed it.

The latest U.S. Drought Monitor, released on May 1, showed that areas in Southern Colorado were facing drought conditions. This May storm had the chance to help, and even erase some of the drought conditions that surfaced in Southern Colorado after the winter months.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Weve seen drought conditions develop over parts of the region through the winter, said Meister. This probably erases the drought in most cases.

The latest snow totals across the region show that various areas west obtained the bulk of precipitation, with Victor getting more than a foot of snow.

Parts in Southwestern Colorado are still under a Winter Storm Warning or Winter Weather Advisory until noon on Wednesday.

The Pikes Peak area also received quite a bit of snow, with Pikes Peak  Americas Mountain forecasting between 47-52 inches of snow between Tuesday and Wednesday.

Viewers across the area shared a few pictures with FOX21 News, showing off how much precipitation their area had received.

The nice thing about this storm is the water was able to soak into the ground, added Meister. It fell over an extended period of time versus a quick 20 to 40-minute dump like we sometimes get from seasonal thunderstorms.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network (CoCoRaHS), accumulated precipitation was also the highest in the western area, with Manitou Springs and areas of Canon City accumulating more than 3 inches.

While the bulk of the rain and snow has passed, cities are cautioning individuals about flooding due to the prolonged rainfall. Manitou Springs, which has retained the most rainfall in the Pikes Peak region, reported that due to high turbidity readings, it had paused operations at the water treatment plant and switched to a second water storage tank to continue providing safe and reliable water.

After Wednesday, though, the weather improves for Southern Colorado, with 70s and sunshine on tap for the 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 FOX21 News Colorado.
BOSTON (WWLP)  The mugshots of the 16 individuals arrested and charged during last months multi-agency fentanyl and cocaine takedown operation have been released.

On April 15 and 16, the Massachusetts State Police Commonwealth Interstate Narcotics Reduction Enforcement Team (CINRET) led a law enforcement team in the execution of search warrants across 20 locations in southeastern Massachusetts. These searches were conducted following an investigation beginning in March 2024, called Operation No Love.

Connecticut K-9 captures wanted fugitive working in Somers

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Massachusetts State Police said that members of CINRET-South and officers with the Brockton and East Bridgewater Police Departments had begun investigating a drug trafficking organization believed to be distributing fentanyl and cocaine in Bristol County. A State Trooper successfully conducted nine controlled drug purchases throughout the investigation.

The undercover trooper and members of the investigative team were able to use surveillance, toll analysis, and electronic intercepts of cell phones to determine the drug trafficking organizations hierarchy, primary suspects, methods of operation, and narcotics supply.

Law enforcement used this information to obtain search warrants for 11 locations in Taunton, two locations in Raynham, four locations in Fall River, and one location each in Falmouth, Pembroke, and Norton. On April 15, the team of over 200 law enforcement members executed these warrants.

During the search, investigators seized approximately 2,280 grams of cocaine, 226 grams of fentanyl, 32 firearms, hundreds of ammunition rounds, high-capacity magazines, and $109,355 in suspected drug proceeds. On April 16, investigators returned to one of the target locations in Taunton based on further information provided and located a Diamondback 9mm pistol, an additional 1,028 grams of fentanyl, and 80 grams of cocaine.

Courtesy of the Massachusetts State Police.

Sixteen individuals were arrested following the operation and arraigned in various district courts. On Wednesday, these individuals mugshots were provided by Massachusetts State Police, as well as images of several of the items seized during the search.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Shawn Roias, 35, of Taunton Trafficking in Cocaine, 200 grams or More (1 count) Possession with Intent to Distribute a Class D Substance (1 count) Conspiracy to Violate the Drug Laws (1 count) Possession of a Large Capacity Feeding Device (1 count) Possession of a Firearm During Commission of a Felony (1 count) Bail set at $25,000



Lucas Guimaraes, 29, of Norton Trafficking in Cocaine, 36 grams or More (1 count) Conspiracy to Violate the Drug Laws (1 count) Bail set at $25,000



Andrew Williams, 27, of Raynham Trafficking in Cocaine, 18 grams or More (5 counts) Trafficking in Cocaine, 36 grams or More (2 counts) Distribution of a Class B Substance (3 counts) Conspiracy to Violate the Drug Laws (1 count) Bail set at $25,000



Brian Szakaly, 27, of Raynham Possession with Intent to Distribute a Class B Substance (1 count) Conspiracy to Violate the Drug Laws (1 count) Possession of a Firearm During Commission of a Felony (1 count) Bail set at $15,000



Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Brayton Crites, 26, of Taunton Possession with Intent to Distribute a Class A Substance, Subsequent Offense (2 counts) Conspiracy to Violate the Drug Laws (1 count) Bail set at $20,000



Val Bettencourt, 50, of Taunton Possession with Intent to Distribute a Class B Substance, Subsequent Offense (1 count) Conspiracy to Violate the Drug Laws (1 count) Bail set at $10,000



Christopher McLaughlin, 43, of Taunton Trafficking in Cocaine, 18 grams or More (1 count) Trafficking in Fentanyl, 18 grams or More (1 count) Held without Bail



Sabrina Cohen, 27, of Taunton Possession with Intent to Distribute a Class B Substance (1 count) Conspiracy to Violate the Drug Laws (1 count) Bail set at $1,000



Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Neftali Torres, 51, of Taunton Trafficking in Cocaine, 100 grams or More (1 count) Conspiracy to Violate the Drug Laws (1 count) Bail set at $25,000



Jorge Santiago, 36, of Taunton

Possession with Intent to Distribute a Class B Substance (2 counts)

Conspiracy to Violate the Drug Laws (1 count)

Bail set at $20,000

Courtney Whitmore, 27, of Taunton Trafficking in Cocaine, 200 grams or More (1 count) Conspiracy to Violate the Drug Laws (1 count) Bail set at $10,000



Jorge Arce, 46, of Taunton Trafficking in Cocaine, 200 grams or More (1 count) Trafficking in Fentanyl, 36 grams or More (1 count) Possession of Ammunition without FID Card (1 count) Conspiracy to Violate the Drug Laws (1 count) Bail set at $100,000



Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

David Brasil, 45, of Falmouth Possession with Intent to Distribute a Class a Class B Substance (1 count) Possession of a Class C Substance (1 count) Conspiracy to Violate the Drug Laws (1 count) Bail set at $500



Mary Hunt, 59, of Falmouth Possession of a Class B Substance Bail set at Personal Recognizance



Yosef Ali, 49, of Fall River Trafficking in Fentanyl, 100 grams or More (1 count) Trafficking in Cocaine, 200 grams or More (1 count) Conspiracy to Violate the Drug Laws (1 count) Bail set at $75,000



Jean Carlos Castillo Mendoza, 44, of Fall River Trafficking in Fentanyl, 100 grams or More (1 count) Trafficking in Cocaine, 200 grams or More (1 count) Conspiracy to Violate the Drug Laws (1 count) Bail set at $150,000



Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.

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.
WALTON COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB)  On the afternoon of May 6, 2020, South Walton Fire District first responders answered a call regarding an illegal burn.

In just an instant, the wildfire spread 343 acres. Officials said they had an eye on the red flag weather conditions before the fire erupted.

The cards were absolutely stacked against us, if you will. You know, so that particular day, we had very, extremely low relative humidity levels, rather uncharacteristic and very dry conditions, and strong winds. All of those things together cumulatively created very challenging conditions for us as fire spread, South Walton Fire District Fire Chief Ryan Crawford said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

115 structure firefighters and around 50 Florida Forest Service personnel were on the scene trying to control the flames.

Young family loses everything in Mussett Bayou Fire

That evening, residents across Santa Rosa Beach and the Mussett Bayou area were ordered to evacuate their homes.

When we showed up on scene, you could tell this fire was going to be a containment issue. It actually jumped 98 well before fire ever got to the north side of 98. It was already south of 98. And it was definitely a fire that was going to have our hands full that day, Florida Forest Service Forestry Supervisor Walter Bowers said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After three hours of battling flames, it had been contained. Following the fire, damages were assessed.

Investigators found that 59 properties, 34 homes, and over 300 acres of land were damaged or destroyed during the wildfire. Officials said the community support is what helped them prosper.

Here are people losing everything theyve ever lived for. And theyre the ones that are leading the charge with the supplies and the food, and the drinks. And it was just overwhelming, Fire Marshal Sammy Sanchez said.

Man accused of starting Mussett Bayou fire pleads no contest

Since then, the area has been rebuilt. New homes have gone up, trees have grown, and fire mitigation efforts have expanded.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We enhanced our capacity to be able to respond to these types of incidents here in South Walton. We have predetermined mechanisms in place. Its important that we do what we can to prevent history from repeating itself here because it can happen, Crawford said.

A week after the fire, authorities arrested Santa Rosa Beach resident Allen Boyd Smith and charged him with reckless burning of land, burning illegal materials, and an open burning violation.

Two years later he was sentenced to one-year probation and 100 hours of community service. And was ordered to pay $15,500 in restitution.

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 mypanhandle.com.
KABUL, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The personnel of law-enforcing agencies have captured a band of kidnappers in northern Afghanistan's Badakhshan province, a spokesman of the national army in the province, Mullah Noorullah Nazari, said Wednesday.

The alleged kidnappers, composed of six individuals who were involved in kidnapping children in Yamgan and Baharak districts, have been identified and arrested with the cooperation of the locals recently, according to the official.

Without providing more details, the official noted that the security organs would spare no effort to ensure law and order elsewhere in Afghanistan. 
Six years ago, a Canadian neurologist claimed to notice strange symptoms in a cluster of patients in New Brunswick, a province bordering Maine.

According to the neurologist, Dr. Alier Marrero, the patients suffered hallucinations, spasms, rapid memory loss and the sensation that bugs were crawling underneath their skin, but their symptoms and brain scans didnt neatly fit an existing diagnosis. In other words, the cases were a mystery.

But since then, neurologists who have reviewed the cases have identified clear diagnoses, including Alzheimers, Parkinsons and cancer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A study published this week in JAMA Neurology reinforces those findings, putting the probability of a mystery disease at roughly 1 in a million.

Doctors working on the study evaluated 25 people who had been identified as part of the New Brunswick cluster. Eleven of the patients had died, so neuropathologists used autopsies to determine their illnesses. For the 14 living patients, neurologists relied on cognitive assessments, among other tests. They concluded that all of the patients had well-known conditions such as Alzheimers, Parkinsons, cancer, traumatic brain injuries or post-concussion symptoms.

We really felt we had a good explanation for 100% of the cases, said an author of the study, Dr. Anthony Lang, a neurologist at University Health Networks Krembil Brain Institute.

However, some doctors worry it wont be enough to quash speculation that the cases have an unknown origin  a theory many patients and their families have clung to.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the study authors, 52 people identified as part of the New Brunswick cluster refused second opinions, and 42 more didnt respond to the authors reaching out. The study attributes that to declining trust in health institutions and the spread of misinformation on both traditional and social media.

These were examples of misdiagnosis that then led to misinformation. And sadly, the physician involved continues to believe and convince the patients and families that they have a mysterious illness, Lang said.

Marrero took issue with the study and its findings in a statement.

I am in profound disagreement with the study conclusions and have many questions regarding the methods and the content, he said. I am sure that our patients, families, and communities share the same very serious concerns.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dr. Valerie Sim, an associate professor of neurology at the University of Alberta who wasnt involved in the study, said there has been no proof that the patients illnesses are related. In fact, she said, the cases are so broad in their description that we could all have this mysterious illness.

Sadly, the one thing that all the patients have in common is the same neurologist, Sim said. And the patients who have been seen by other neurologists get a diagnosis of a known entity thats not a mystery.

James Mastrianni, a neurology professor at the University of Chicago who wasnt part of the research, said the study reinforces that a second opinion by an expert in the field is often helpful.

An ongoing investigation

The mystery illness theory gained traction in 2021 when Canadian health authorities began investigating cases based on Marreros reports. But even after the investigation determined that most patients had known conditions, some families were skeptical. In November, the premier of New Brunswick, Susan Holt, called on the provinces health minister to conduct a scientific review into the mystery brain disease.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

New Brunswickers deserve answers, Holt said in a statement last year. We need to know whats making us sick.

Some patient advocates now believe an environmental exposure is triggering the illnesses, claiming patients blood and urine tests show the presence of heavy metals, pesticides and rare antibodies that warrant further study.

It wasnt ever about whether a patient could have an alternative diagnosis, said Kat Lanteigne, an advocate from New Brunswick. It was what has triggered them to have this neurodegenerative disease?

Dr. Yves Leger, New Brunswicks chief medical officer of health, said in a statement Wednesday that the new study doesnt change my Offices intention to complete its own investigation into cases of undiagnosed neurological illness in New Brunswick.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

His office has received 222 reports of cases identified as part of the cluster.

Marrero said he has evaluated more than 500 patients in this cluster, and provided a significant amount of unequivocal, sometimes critical environmental exposure evidences, as well as rare autoimmune markers in many of them.

But Lang said that just because a substance is in blood or urine doesnt mean it caused someones neurological symptoms.

You dont do a shotgun approach looking for anything and everything and then finding something and claiming its related to what the problem is, he said.

The challenge of diagnosing neurological issues

Neurologists with no connection to the New Brunswick cases point to a few reasons advocates, doctors and government officials are still debating the cause of the illnesses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For one, they said, accurate diagnoses can take time. And some of the conditions detected in the study, like Alzheimers, can have complex presentations.

It really takes a cohesive story from the family and a timeline to understand if someone is developing dementia. There can be confusing signs on a neurologic exam, said Dr. Kimberly ONeill, a neurologist in the NYU Langone Health Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Center.

One of the core symptoms used to identify the New Brunswick patients was rapidly progressing dementia. But families sometimes miss early signs of neurodegeneration, making it appear that dementia came on suddenly, Mastrianni said.

Once debilitating symptoms arrive, patients and their families are often desperate for answers and may be reluctant to let go of the first diagnoses they get, Sim said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We see this all the time in medicine, that patients gravitate to a diagnosis or a group entity, Sim said. Thats clearly whats happening here.

The misdiagnoses are really a tragedy, she added, because patients could be missing out on treatments or proper care.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
May 6The town of Millwood is intertwined with its namesake industrial engine, Inland Empire Paper.

Much of that is by design. Founded as a company town for families of workers at the mill, Millwood grew as the mill grew. Housing was in such short supply during the early days that the company started its own home loan fund to help employees select the designs of the houses that line the city's streets to this day.

The town and its namesake remain tethered more than 110 years later, as evidenced by the property tax bills residents received earlier this spring.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Homeowners are seeing an increase in their statements this year after the Inland Empire Paper Company successfully appealed its taxable value to the Spokane County Assessor's Office, dropping the worth of the property by nearly $50 million.

Inland Empire Paper is owned by Cowles Co., which also owns The Spokesman-Review.

The amount a taxing entity like a local government, fire agency or school district collects does not change as a result of the mill's depreciation, meaning the rest of the properties in the same district are left to pick up the slack.

The majority of Millwood homeowners  86% of them  had to pay an additional 13% in city property taxes year over year as a result.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Joe Hollenback, chief deputy assessor for the county, told the Millwood City Council it was the mill's first such request since before 2001. While he "about fell over" when he saw the dramatic change in value, he stressed that company officials exercised their right to have the value based on the strength of their business.

As an income producing property, the company requested the mill site be appraised on "capitalization of income that would be derived from prudent use of the property," as it's stated in Washington state law. Hollenback said two county staffers inspected the property last fall and found a "massive amount of economic obsolescence" in the plant based on the state of its equipment, buildings and market forces that dropped its 2024 appraised value of $82.3 million to $33.5 million.

In turn, the mill saw its total tax bill drop from $851,789 a year ago to $355,370.

"I'm not happy about it personally, I'm not happy about it when I see the tax bill and I'm not happy from the city standpoint, because we've now distributed the burden across all of everyone here," Millwood Mayor Kevin Freeman said. "But it is an available tool to use for an assessed value, and other entities do use it."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Doug Krapas, environmental manager for Inland Empire Paper Company, said its last valuation request was in 2003, just a few years after the company replaced its circa 1914 paper machine with a more efficient, versatile and higher-yielding version.

"The recent re-evaluation and assessment of IEP's facility by the Spokane County Assessor's Office simply reflects the present valuation based on the depreciation of IEP's assets since 2003 and the current market conditions of the paper industry," Krapas said.

That purchase arguably saved the mill from closure, Krapas said. The decline in demand for traditional products from paper mills has led to bankruptcy claims and closures at similar mills across the country, like former Usk, Washington-based Ponderay Newsprint in 2020.

At one point, Inland Empire Paper Company was one of the West Coast's leading producers of newsprint, with clients overseas and throughout much of Canada. But the decline in print media in recent decades has led to a reduction in what was once the plant's main economic driver.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Industry advocacy group the American Forest and Paper Association estimates domestic demand for printing and writing paper has declined 50% since 1990, while demand for newsprint has declined even more drastically, by about 90 %.

Meanwhile, demand for all sorts of paper packaging products is on the rise, as reported by Slate. Krapas said the plant's current machine, now nearly 25 years old, has helped the mill diversify its offerings and capitalize on the increased demand for some of those products.

"We're at this really critical transitional time in the paper mill's history," Krapas said.

In addition to ramping up production of paper packaging products for companies like Amazon, the mill also recently received FDA approval to create paper products for food and medical use, like butcher and counter paper.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The company continues to make newsprint that later becomes The Spokesman-Review, the Inlander and the United Kingdom-based Financial Times. Krapas said the hope is that offering a broader range of products will help ensure the mill's health for years to come.

"So we don't go the way of our peers up north," Krapas said, referencing the closure of Ponderay Newsprint.

In turn, the health of the company will help promote the health of the town. Krapas said the company always has strived to be a good neighbor by supporting local civic and social service functions in addition to providing employment opportunities. He said the employee recognition wall in the plant's lobby highlights just how many families in the area are connected to the mill and have been for over a century, in some cases.

"You'll see a lot of familiar names, three or four generations sometimes," Krapas said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hollenback acknowledged a dramatic increase year over year "is never good," but the county is not expecting any similar changes in statements for Millwood property owners in the years to come. The adjustment in the mill's taxable value likely would have happened years earlier if the mill had requested it sooner, he said.

"In the grand scheme of things, we probably should have been more reactive," Hollenback said. "The plant manager, they probably should have let us know eight years ago."

Ron Gillett, a Millwood resident of more than 25 years, said he noticed the increase in his bill this year, but was unaware of the root cause. While he'll be able to meet the bill, he said he feels for the many senior residents like him who live on a fixed income and were unable to plan ahead.

"No one likes an increase in their property taxes," Gillett said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gillett said he would like more transparency from local taxing entities such as the fire departments, school districts and local government on how collected taxes are put to use.

Anticipating such queries, Hollenback told the council that Spokane County property owners can visit the assessor's website and use the county's "Tax Transparency tool" to find a breakdown of how their payments are distributed.

The majority of property taxes area homeowners pay each year is devoted to school districts, followed by fire districts. Local governments tend to appear in the middle to bottom of the appropriation list, depending on where in Spokane County the homeowner lives.
NASA is preparing to prioritize launching rockets to Mars in 2026  a drastic change in priorities that happens to align with President Donald Trumps priorities, while also benefiting billionaire Elon Musks SpaceX.

The unexpected change comes on the heels of the White House 2026 budget proposal, which includes increased funding for Mars-related projects by $1 billion and the promise to pay for the launches.

We are evaluating every opportunity, including launch windows in 2026 and 2028, to test technologies that will land humans on Mars, NASA spokesperson Bethany Stevens told Politico.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The White House hinted that Mars missions would be a priority of the Trump Administration last month after the president met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, indicating in a press release after the two met that the US and Italy would partner on a Mars mission as soon as next year.

NASA employees who would typically be in the know about such plans, however, were left in the dark about a potential push to Mars, a senior official told Politico.

Though there are other companies in the running to make rockets for such missions, Musks SpaceX announced plans to land one of their rockets on the planet in 2026.

SpaceX founder Elon Musk has long advocated for Mars missions, often donning a shirt reading Occupy Mars (Getty Images)

NASAs shift in priorities may also help fulfill a goal Trump expressed during his inauguration speech to land the first astronaut on Mars.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While NASAs new plan is in line with Trump and Musks interests, it may face blowback from lawmakers who have legally required the space agency to maintain a long-term human presence on or near the moon.

Last fall, Musk announced that his companys first mission to Mars would be in 2026, likely when the next Earth-Mars transfer window  meaning when the two planets are aligned in their orbits  opens in November 2026.

The Tesla co-founder has long pushed an outlandish plan to establish a self-sustaining colony on the Red Planet in order to save humanity from extinction.

He has previously predicted an uncrewed landing could happen as soon as 2026, with humans there before 2030.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its not about going to Mars to visit once, but it is to make life multi-planetary so that we can expand the scope and scale of consciousness to better understand the nature of the universe and to ensure the long-term survival of civilization in the hopefully unlikely event that something terrible happens to Earth that there is a continuance of consciousness on Mars, Musk told Fox News host Jesse Watters earlier this week.

He said going to Mars served as an insurance plan for humans, predicting that Earth would somehow be incinerated by the sun in hundreds of millions of years. While the star may swallow the Earth it wont be for billions of years.

Musk has long triumphed the idea of colonization of the Red Planet, and since 2000 has pushed for Mars missions while donning Occupy Mars T-shirts.

Scientists, however, have said Musks Mars vacations will not happen any time soon due to the complicated design and mission for SpaceXs Starship rocket, among other concerns. Previous test flights have resulted in fiery explosions.
NASA is considering launching rockets to Mars next year, a major shift in priorities that could boost the fortunes of Elon Musks space company and speed up the timeline for astronauts to reach the red planet.

The sudden switch follows the release of the White Houses 2026 budget proposal, which would increase funding for Mars-related projects by $1 billion and pay for the launches. It also signals the Trumps administrations intentions to prioritize sending people to Mars.

We are evaluating every opportunity, including launch windows in 2026 and 2028, to test technologies that will land humans on Mars, said NASA spokesperson Bethany Stevens.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The White House first hinted at the possibility last month in a press release after a meeting between Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and President Donald Trump. It indicated the U.S. and Italy would partner on a Mars mission as soon as next year.

NASA employees who would usually know about such plans were not informed about the Mars effort prior to the White House meeting, according to a senior official, who was granted anonymity to speak about internal matters.

The missions could prove a boon for Musks SpaceX, which would likely be a top contender to provide the rocket. While other companies have rockets that could reach Mars, only SpaceX has announced plans to land one on the planet in 2026.

NASAs new focus aligns with the Trump administrations increasing interest in Mars. Trump, in his inauguration speech, promised to land the first astronaut on the planet. Jared Isaacman, the nominee for NASA administrator, also said he would prioritize such a mission in testimony ahead of his nomination hearing. And Musk, a Trump adviser, has long pushed to prioritize Mars over a moon landing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But a Mars focus could lead to a clash with lawmakers, who have legally mandated that NASA pursue a long-term human presence on or near the moon.

Congress may buck Trump and refuse to approve the funding in his budget request, especially if lawmakers worry the effort will delay lunar plans. The White Houses budget proposal also cancels the Gateway lunar space station program, which many senators support.

Isaacman has said the space agency can pursue lunar and Mars plans at the same time. But both Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), the chair and ranking member of the Senate committee overseeing NASA, pushed Isaacman on that assertion in written questions following his confirmation hearing.

The White House, SpaceX, Cruz and Cantwell did not respond to requests for comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Next year and 2028 are the soonest time frames when Earth and Mars are closest, making them optimal years for launching missions.

SpaceX's Starship is not the only contender for the trip. Blue Origins New Glenn rocket, which launched for the first time in January, could carry a small payload to Mars. The company is already contracted to send two small satellites to Mars this year or next to study the planet. Rocket producer ULA has also built rockets for Mars missions.

And Starship still needs to pass significant technical tests before any trip to the red planet. The rockets last two flights ended with explosions.
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  A professional racecar driver is traveling to Wayne County, Indiana, for an autograph signing session.

From 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 7, Conor Daly will greet fans at Warm Glow Candle Outlet, located at 2131 N. Centerville Road in Centerville, Indiana. Daly will be signing autographs during the time period.

Best-known for his roles as an IndyCar and NASCAR driver, Daly is also host of the Speed Street podcast.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The racer teased a collaboration between himself and the candle business for a new candle scent.

Stay tuned for a special edition CD candle that will be available soon  its going to smell absolutely delightful, said Daly.

To learn more about Daly, 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 WDTN.com.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has indicted former Metro Nashville Police lieutenant and police misconduct whistleblower Garet Davidson on one count of theft, two counts of burglary and more than 30 counts of official misconduct.

The charges come after Davidson allegedly gained access to restricted files, including those tied to the Covenant School investigation.

TBI investigated at the request of Nashville District Attorney Glenn Funk. Davidson's attorney Alex Little did not immediately respond to a request seeking comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Two indictments were handed down in the case.

In the first, Davidson is charged with six counts of official misconduct related to leaking Covenant School shooting materials.

In the six count indictment, obtained by The Tennessean, Davidson is alleged to have intentionally or knowingly harmed victims of the March 27, 2023 Covenant School shooting by leaking documents related to the case on or around Nov. 20, 2023. Count six alleges Davidson benefitted or received benefits from releasing documents related to the Covenant School shooting.

In the other indictment, Davidson is charged with one count theft of property, two counts of burglary and 29 counts of official misconduct.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He is accused in the indictment of obtaining non-public internal investigative files from the department's Office of Professional Accountability, MNPD's internal investigative review branch. Davidson retired from the department in early 2024 and filed a 61-page complaint, alleging misconduct against some of MNPD's top brass, on May 22, 2024.

He had served as a Metro Police officer since 2011, records show.

"During the course of the investigation, agents discovered that Davidson, while employed as a lieutenant of the Office of Professional Accountability at the Metro Nashville Police Department, used his position to gain access to restricted areas that he was not authorized to access within MNPD. He then took multiple criminal case files, internal investigation case files, original case files, and other documents he was not authorized to retain," TBI said in a statement via email.

Davidson, 38, was arrested May 6 in Portland. He was taken to the Davidson County jail and was being held on a $150,000 bond.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Former Nashville lieutenant, whistleblower charged in Covenant leak
On January 20, the day that President Trump again took the oath of office, Monique Muffie Mousseau got a slew of emails and phone calls.

Homophobic people were saying the most horrific things, she recalled. Two men threatened to kill her, and a woman said she wouldnt exist any longer: That Im a virus to the United States.

Mousseau is the executive director of Uniting Resilience, a grassroots organization based in Rapids City, South Dakota, that has advocated for LGBTQ+ Native youth since 2019. Following the inauguration, Mousseau and her wife, Felipa De Leon, made the difficult decision to stop posting about their organizations events and resources on social media. They have become more guarded about their physical space, which has started to house other LGBTQ+ organizations that have been displaced by threats of violence and loss of funding in the new administration. Safety, lately, means keeping a lower profile.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But we want the public to understand  we do exist and we are helping, said Mousseau, a member of Oglala Lakota Sioux Tribe.

The stakes for Mousseaus community could not be higher. Queer Indigenous youth  often referred to under the umbrella term of two-spirit, which recognizes sexual and gender diversity across many Native tribes  face some of the highest rates of discrimination, harassment, violence and suicide of any group in the LGBTQ+ community.

That is especially true in South Dakota. Native Americans represent over 8 percent of the population, making it the third largest Native population by percentage of any state. In 2022, the LGBTQ+ youth nonprofit The Trevor Project found in a survey that 53 percent of queer youth in South Dakota had seriously contemplated suicide, well above the national average of 37 percent.

For years, South Dakota has been the launchpad for anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. As Mousseau and De Leon watch the Trump administration chip away at LGBTQ+ rights nationally, they worry about the consequences at home.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A report released last month by the Human Rights Campaign andUniting Resilience details the extreme challenges facing South Dakotas two-spirit youth in everything from schools to housing to law enforcement. The two-year snapshot found that many students who reported facing bullying in school over their gender identity were removed from their classes and forced to learn remotely.

Challenges faced by South Dakotas Native people are numerous. According to the report, Native South Dakotans are 2.5 times more likely to experience violent crimes and twice as likely be sexually assaulted or raped. The overwhelming majority (93 percent) of the states hate crimes were related to a persons race, ethnicity or LGBTQ+ identity, the report noted.

Ami Patel, senior litigation counsel at the Human Rights Campaign, said the recent report on South Dakotas two-spirit youth exposed deep disparities facing kids that its organization would not have captured without a collaboration with Uniting Resilience.

Our hope is to continue to engage with Uniting Resilience on the ground in South Dakota, to continue this work over many more years to come, and also continue to raise awareness, Patel said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Increasingly, LGBTQ+ youth, both Indigenous and White, have been seeking out the group for support as the climate in Rapids City grows hostile toward them. The kids have pleaded for help getting support at school. Uniting Resilience knew that tribal histories could offer an example to the youth, an untapped narrative in which they were reflected. Uniting Resilience has helped connect kids and their parents to that history throughout the state, two-spirit youth, allies and even adversaries.

In 2015, the Supreme Court declared that LGBTQ+ couples could marry in every state. But the ruling had no jurisdiction over tribal traditions. As a consequence, De Leon, Mousseau and many other queer indigenous couples went years without being recognized as married in their own communities.

Mousseau and De Leon reviewed the cultural teachings of their tribe to gain clarity on the roles of LGBTQ+ people historically. There were many examples of people assigned male who dressed as women, took care of the chickens and cooked the food. There were female-assigned people who loaded up the horses and prepared the sweat lodge for ceremonies, tasks typically assigned to men.

And nobody is making fun of them, nobodys saying anything, just calling them by their name and doing what has to be done, Mousseau said.

Monique Muffie Mousseau (right) and her wife Felipa De Leon work with Uniting Resilience, a grassroots organization based in Rapids City, South Dakota that advocates for LGBTQ+ Native youth. (Adam Fondren/Rapid City Journal/AP)

In May 2019, De Leon and Mousseau began to push the Oglala Lakota Sioux tribe to recognize marriages like theirs. On July 8 of that year, the tribe passed an ordinance that did just that. That September, the tribe became the first to pass trans-inclusive hate crime protections, punishable by jail time, fines or restitution.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The following winter, South Dakota found itself in the middle of a national debate about health care for transgender minors. But as national press descended upon the capitol, lawmakers were greeted by the sight of two horseback riders with a transgender pride flag. The Oglala Lakota Sioux Tribe and others from across the state had shown up en masse to oppose the bill. The bill failed in committee, but perhaps more importantly, the states Indigenous leaders had sent a message to lawmakers.

Homophobia isnt traditional, said Mousseau in the HRC report. Thats a colonized way of thinking.

The group holds biweekly sweat lodges, weekly youth groups and meetings. Over the past two years, they have hosted more than 500 people at their annual pow-wow. As anti-trans advocates argue that transgender identity is new, Uniting Resilience teaches its youth that they are connected to a long line of other gender diverse people and deeply woven into the states history.

I just want you to know Im the richest person in this continent because I know our home and our ways and our ceremonies, Mousseau said. I dont judge anybody, and I dont consider anybody a gender.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

De Leon and Mousseau speak about their work in terms of flashing lights. They liken everything they do for LGBTQ+ youth to a crisis response, and they are first responders.

De Leon recalls that in 2016, she learned her own niece had died by suicide. Her niece had been holding hands with another girl, which her teachers said she couldnt do. De Leon hadnt even known her niece was LGBTQ+ because family members didnt tell her. The fact that teachers and family could talk to her niece in such a way still haunts her.

[Her uncle was] saying we already have a carpet muncher in the family, De Leon said. We dont need another one.

The realities facing two-spirit youth in South Dakota are only getting harder, said Mousseau. Within two days of Trumps inauguration, three other LGBTQ+ organizations in the state called Uniting Resilience, asking for office space. They had been ejected from their own. Uniting Resilience made room, even for groups that didnt represent Native LGBTQ+ people.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But in late April, the group made the excruciating decision to close their office altogether. Mousseau references threats of violence to the organization, murders near the office and displays of white supremacist symbols in town.

I dont want any of our LGBTQ+ groups to even experience any kind of violence  and the board knows that too, she said. It makes my stomach turn just talking with you about it, but its real, and I want you to know that, from my mouth, reality sucks right now with this administration. Its very bad for somebody like me and my wife, 20 years together, having to navigate if we should hold hands or not.

Uniting Resilience will continue to meet and hold youth groups, but wont advertise those meetings widely. They have yet to decide if its safe to hold their annual pow-wow.

But Mousseau and De Leon say they are not discouraged. Theyre working to educate law enforcement on issues facing two-spirit youth. Theyre dreaming big  hoping someone can connect them with Lady Gaga or Taylor Swift.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I just want you to know that were very active in not just our community, not just our state, but nationally, Mousseau said. You know, if a millionaire needs to donate money, send em our way.

The post Native leaders fear for queer Indigenous youth as Trump slashes LGBTQ+ rights appeared first on The 19th.

News that represents you, in your inbox every weekday. Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter.
Another Navy fighter jet sank to the bottom of the Red Sea on Tuesday following the second such mishap aboard the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier in just over a week, a U.S. official told ABC News.

The F/A-18 F fighter jet was attempting a nighttime landing onto the deck of the carrier when the crew was unable to stop it in time before going off the side, according to the official. When the failed arrestment of the aircraft became apparent, the two pilots ejected.

Both of the pilots were recovered and early indications are that they suffered minor injuries, the official said. No other injuries were reported.

PHOTO: Truman's Deployment (Mcsn Mekhi Manson/USS Harry S Truman)

MORE: US fighter jet rolls off aircraft carrier, sinks into ocean, Navy says

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The incident happened at 8:45 p.m. local time in the Red Sea, according to the official. It was not immediately unclear what led to the failed arrestment during the landing.

The incident is the fourth major mishap involving the carrier since it deployed last year, including when another F/A-18 jet fell off the side of the Truman just eight days ago. That jet was being towed in the hangar bay when the crew lost control of the aircraft, which then tumbled off the side along with the tow truck.

An investigation into the April 28 incident remains underway. F/A-18 jets cost some $70 million each.

In February, the Truman collided with a large merchant vessel in the vicinity of Port Said, Egypt, in the Mediterranean Sea. That incident followed an accidental shootdown of another F/A-18 late last year by one of the surface ships belonging to the Truman strike group.

PHOTO: Navy Fighter Jet Overboar (Darko Bandic/AP)

MORE: Trump announces US, Houthis to stop bombing each other -- Houthis argue they will 'evaluate' ceasefire proposal

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Truman has been operating in the Red Sea since last year when it was deployed to help protect commercial ships against near-constant attacks by Houthi rebels in Yemen.

The carrier was slated to come home last month, but Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth extended its deployment while ordering another carrier -- the USS Carl Vinson -- to the region to bolster military power.

President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that the U.S. would stop bombing the Houthis because the rebel group had agreed to stand down. A senior Houthi official said the group was not immediately agreeing to a U.S.-proposed ceasefire, saying they had to evaluate it first.

Navy loses 2nd fighter jet in Red Sea in a week originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Test launches of Andurils ALTIUS-700 loitering munitions from one of the U.S. Navys stealthy Combatant Craft Medium (CCM) boats are helping pave the way for a future maritime special operations strike capability. A key requirement for the planned successor to the CCM, or CCM Mk 2, is the integration of a launcher that could fire ALTIUS-700s and other precision munitions.

Members of U.S. Special Operations Commands (SOCOM) Program Executive Office-Maritime (PEO-M) provided updates on work toward the new loitering munition capability and other special operations combatant craft modernization efforts at the annual SOF Week conference this week, at which TWZ has been in attendance. The loitering munition effort, which dates back to at least 2018, has been formally known as the Maritime Precision Engagement (MPE) program, but SOCOM says the name is now shifting to Maritime Launched Effects (MLE).

A stock picture of one of the US Navys Combatant Craft Medium (CCM) special operations boats. USN

David Vann, a naval systems engineer at Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) who works with the division of SOCOMs PEO-M that deals with the combatant craft fleets, was one of the individuals who shared new details regarding the MPE/MLE program at SOF Week. He confirmed today that the ALTIUS-700 is the munition that has been and continues to be used in live-fire testing of the prototype system, with another test launch scheduled to occur this month, in response to direct questions from TWZ Howard Altman.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The ALTIUS-700 is a larger and longer-ranged derivative of the increasingly popular ALTIUS-600 drone, originally developed by Area-I, which Anduril acquired in 2021. The ALTIUS-700 is a modular design that could be configured with additional sensors or other payloads, including electronic warfare and signal relay packages. When configured as a loitering munition, it carries a warhead that offers anti-armor and anti-structure capability, as you can read more about here.

PEO-M also offered new views of a prototype eight-cell MPE/MLE launcher, which has been installed on an existing CCM, including one showing an actual test launch, as seen at the top of this story and below. Details about the launcher remain limited, but it retracts flush into a space on the CCMs bow. This make senses for maintaining the boats overall stealth characteristics when the launcher is not in use.

Images of the prototype MPE/MLE launcher. SOCOM via Howard Altman

Though ALTIUS-700 has been used for MPE testing to date, it is just one munition that could be integrated into the launcher.

It could be, Vann said when asked if UVisions Hero-120 loitering munition might be another option. The U.S. special operations community and the U.S. Marine Corps are already acquiring variants of the Hero-120, including for employment from maritime platforms.

A US Marine Corps Long Range Unmanned Surface Vessel (LRUSV) with an eight-cell launcher for Hero-120 loitering munitions. USMC

SOCOM has also shown UVisions smaller and shorter-ranged Hero-30, as well as Rafaels Spike NLOS (Non-Line Of Sight) missile, as notional options that might meet its MPE/MLE requirements in the past. The U.S. Army has notably fielded the Spike NLOS integrated onto its AH-64 Apache attack helicopters.

A 2018 briefing slide discussing the MPE program, which includes images of a Spike NLOS missile and a Hero-30 loitering munition. SOCOM

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Were not limiting ourselves to any single item, Vann said.

In terms of the present schedule for the MPE/MLE program, SOCOM now expects the system to enter service as a core element of the CCM Mk 2 boats, the requirements for which are still being finalized. The current goal is to begin fielding the CCM Mk 2s by Fiscal Year 2030.

Its sort of shocking to some people that none of my combatant crafts are inherently built with an offensive or defensive capability in whole, Navy Capt. Jared Wyrick, head of PEO-M, said during a talk at SOF Week yesterday. And Im always a big fan of saying, if you can make a product more quickly, things will want to stay further and further away from you.

When we specifically are looking at the CCM Mk 2 that were working on the design of right now, and hoping to put out more information [on] later this year, part of that design was built around what is the fleet of  unmanned aerial systems look like now, so that we were able to accommodate that, and thinking about whats the next generation to look like, Wyrick added during a deep-dive session on his offices portfolio at SOF Week today.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is worth noting here that existing CCMs, as well as smaller Combatant Craft Assault (CCA) special operations boats, can currently be armed with crew-served weapons like the .50 caliber M2 machine gun and 40mm Mk 19 Mod 3 automatic grenade launcher. What mounted armament options might presently be available for the larger and more secretive Combatant Craft Heavy (CCH) boats is unknown. Before they were retired in 2013, the Navys Mk V Special Operations Craft also offered naval special operators a boat with an integrated ability to launch and recover Scan Eagle drones.

A CCM armed with a pair of .50 caliber M2 machine guns. USN

A loitering munition in the general class of the ALTIUS-700, which has a stated maximum range of 100 miles, as well as the ability to stay aloft for up to 75 minutes, will offer CCM Mk 2 crews an all-new way to prosecute targets at sea or on land at standoff ranges. Loitering munitions also have secondary surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities that could be valuable to these kinds of operations, as well.

As TWZ has pointed out in past reporting on the MPE/MLE effort, armed with this capability, the Navy special operations speedboats could be used in a variety of scenarios, including engaging high-value and/or time-sensitive targets close to a coastline or at sea. Non-line of sight fire support, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities could also be particularly useful for supporting special operations raids ashore or boarding operations at sea.

A networked swarm of loitering munitions and other drones with different payloads could offer additional flexibility when it comes to finding targets and employing non-kinetic effects, as well as launching kinetic attacks, across a broad area. Control of loitering munitions could also be passed off to other friendly forces in the air, at sea, and on land, including other drones configured as signal relays, to help reach further-flung target areas. This is a concept of operations that has been explicitly highlighted in relation to the MPE/MLE program.

A graphic included in a PEO-M presentation at this years SOF Week conference that shows the prototype MPE/MLE launcher, at left, as well as a depiction of how control of a loitering munition launched from a combatant craft could be passed to forces ashore. SOCOM via Howard Altman

One of our combatant crafts is not going to stop next war. Its not going to be the one on the line saying, dont step off. Thats going to be done by a lot of our capital asset platforms [like] carriers [and] submarines, Wyrick said at SOF week yesterday. Naval Special Warfare [NSW] has the opportunity to increase their lethality and survivability when that war is going to start, and make it visible that they will have that edge when the war is going to start by the efforts that NSW is going to provide.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

CCM Mk 2s with launchers loaded with ALTIUS-700s or other precision munitions are now set to be another way Navy special operations forces will be able to add that lethality in the future.

Howard Altman contributed to this story.

Contact the author: joe@twz.com
North Carolina lawmakers could overhaul high school math requirements and make it mandatory for students to pass a U.S. history test to get a diploma.

The N.C. House K-12 Education Committee backed a revised bill Tuesday that replaces NC Math 3 with computer science as one of the four math credits needed for high school graduation. House Bill 415 requires the UNC System Board of Governors to adopt the new high school math requirements as the systems minimum math admissions requirements.

The bill also changes social studies requirements, including requiring students to pass a test on their civics knowledge before they can graduate from high school.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rep. David Willis, a Union County Republican, said the changes better reflect the math needs for most high school students. He said Math 3, which begins to go into areas like calculus, is not a skill that most students will need either in college or in their career.

Our goal is to give the kids what they actually need and meet them where theyre at and stop pretending to put a band aid on a system where were graduating students who arent math ready for college, said Willis, one of the bills primary sponsors and a co-chair of the Education Committee.

Bill opponents argued the bill sends the wrong message about math standards.

We are lowering now the standards for students in North Carolina, and were requiring our UNC system to lower its standards, said Rep. Julie von Haefen, a Wake County Democrat. That is not the pathway that I think we should be going down.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bill now goes to the House Rules Committee. If adopted, the new high school graduation requirements would go into effect for students entering ninth grade in the 2026-27 school year.

The legislation comes at the same time the State Department of Public Instruction has begun work on developing new K-12 math standards.

Do students need to take Math 3?

High school students currently need to pass Math 1, Math 2 and Math 3 and a fourth math course aligned with their post-secondary plans to get a diploma.

Math 1 integrates algebra, geometry, function and statistics

Math 2 builds on Math 1 and goes into more on topics such as polynomials, trigonometric ratios, probability and geometric concepts like congruence and similarity.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Math 3 builds on Math 1 and Math 2 and goes into topics such as complex numbers, inverse functions, trigonometric functions and geometric concepts such as conics and circles.

The reality is the vast majority of the students dont need or will never use whats learned in Math 3, Willis said.

Unless theyre in a STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) field, Willis said most UNC System students or community college students wont take a college math course beyond algebra.

At the same time, Willis pointed to how the state end-of-course Math 1 exam passing rate was 37% for high school students. Many middle school students take Math 1. If you include them, the passing rate rises to 51%.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Id say what were doing is getting more realistic about where we are in the world today and not continuing down a failing mechanism that is is not working for our students, Willis said. When 70% of our students in high school are not on grade level for Math I  70% are not on grade level  what are we talking about?

New math placement guidelines

Under the bill, students would take Math 1, Math 2, computer science and a fourth math courses aligned with their career development plans. Last year, lawmakers had added passing a computer science class as a graduation requirement but made it one of the elective credits students must fulfill.

Were giving the students what they need to meet the career that theyre going to have, and not ask them to take something more than the UNC System, which is one of the best college systems, and if not the best in the country, is going to require of them, Willis said.

High schools could still offer Math 3. But the bill would no longer make the class mandatory beginning in the 2025-26 school year. This means students would also no longer have to take the states Math 3 end-of-course exam.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Under the bill, students who didnt pass the states 8th-grade end-of grade math exam would be required to take a new Foundations of Math I class before they could take Math 1. There would be exceptions, such as if the parent requests their child take Math 1 or the principal can cite evidence for why the student should be enrolled in Math 1.

Similar requirements would be in place for Math 2. Students who dont pass the Math 1 exam would be enrolled in a Foundations of Math 2 class before taking Math 2 unless their parents or the principal objects.

Students who passed the 8th-grade math EOG class or the Math I EOC exam would be encouraged not to take either foundational math course.

Willis said his bill gives students who need more math help the time to build on their foundational skills while allowing students who can handle it to pursue advanced high school math courses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But von Haefen, the lawmaker, said that shes worried that the legislation could create a system of have and have nots.

I also worry that putting students on these two tracks ... where our lower income and minority children, who tend to test at those lower levels in math, are going to be on one track and all the other students are going to be on the other track, von Haefen said.

New social studies requirements

Under the bill, high school students would need to pass a US history test as a graduation requirement. Students used to have to pass state end-of-course exams in civics and American history before they were eliminated by state lawmakers in an effort to reduce standardized testing.

Under the bill, the State Board of Education would develop the new required U.S. history test. The test would consist of questions taken from the pool given to people trying to complete the naturalization requirement for U.S. citizenship.
VIENTIANE, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith will lead a high-level delegation to pay a state visit to Russia from May 8 to May 10 at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin, aiming to strengthen Laos-Russia relations and enhance bilateral cooperation.

During the visit, Thongloun will also participate in the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, Lao national TV reported on Wednesday. 
HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  Huntersville joined other Charlotte-area municipalities Tuesday in opposing state legislation that they claim strips their ability to plan for growth.

House Bill 765 would take away control from elected officials in the zoning process. In the towns opposing proclamation, leaders claim it would create a patchwork of state mandates and ban common-sense local land-use practices leading to unregulated and incompatible development.

Cornelius passed a similar ordinance Monday, and in Stanly County, Albemarle did so last month.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Huntersville town leaders considering two residential zoning changes

The goal of the bill is to make housing more affordable, but Huntersville Mayor Christie Clark argues that it has the opposite effect for fast-growing towns like hers. It proposes that cities with populations below 124,999 must allow subdivisions equal to 5 units per acre as of right and not by conditional zoning for subdivisions over four lots.

It would probably contribute to gentrification in parts of town, we do not want that to happen, she said.

Monday night, Cornelius leaders cited the potential erosion of pedestrian-friendly streets.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cornelius currently has its own street standards for new development. The legislation requires all local governments to utilize NCDOT standards, which may be smaller cross sections and may not require sidewalks and/or bike lanes.

Commissioner Alisia Bergsman says the bill strips away the voice of local residents.

Huntersville and towns across North Carolina deserve the right to plan for growth in ways that reflect local values, infrastructure capacity, and public input, she said. HB765 is a threat to that basic principle, and we urge the General Assembly to reject it.

Huntersville added the proclamation to its agenda at the beginning of Tuesdays Board of Commissioners meeting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Tuesday, the bill was re-referred to the state Committee on Finance.

Filed on April 3, its primary authors are Reps. Jeff Zenger (R-Forsyth), Mark Brody (R-Union), Matthew Winslow (R-Franklin), and Carla Cunningham (D-Mecklenburg). Part of Cunninghams district extends into Huntersville.

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 North Carolina Legislative Building (Photo: Clayton Henkel)

Lawmakers in the North Carolina House approved a torrent of legislation Tuesday evening, ranging from a more flexible school calendar, opening parents access to their childrens medical records and expanding the scope of the state auditors investigations.

The floor debate flurry came two days before the legislatures self-imposed Thursday crossover deadline  in which a bill must be approved by one chamber, or else be considered effectively dead for the remainder of the two-year legislative biennium (with some exceptions).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Both the House and Senate are swiftly pushing a raft of policy changes through the legislative process this week. The House moved through 31 bills during hours of debate Tuesday.

Districts setting their own school year calendars

Under current North Carolina law, the school year can begin no earlier than the Monday closest to Aug. 26, and end no later than the Friday closest to June 11. Districts would be granted more flexibility to create their calendars under a bill passed by the House on Tuesday.

House Bill 121 would repeal the 2004 calendar law  one notably backed by the tourism industry  in favor of a policy allowing districts to set their own calendars.

It passed the chamber, 111-2, with no debate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The House has passed bills altering the school calendar for years, but they have always died over in the Senate. A separate proposal, Senate Bill 754, would allow schools to start a week earlier.

Parents access to medical records

House debate grew heated as the chamber passed a bill requiring parents consent to grant children medical treatment or prescriptions.

House Bill 519 was prompted, Republican backers say, by constituent complaints that common medical practice allowed children starting at age 12 to opt out of sharing information with their parents.

Doctors can and should still listen to and counsel children, said Rep. Jennifer Balkcom (R-Henderson). But when it comes to treatment, getting medication or performing procedures, thats when parents need to be involved.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Democrats warned against the proposal, arguing that it would infringe on confidential care that includes mental health and contraception.

You are stripping teenagers of rights they currently have, to seek care independently, said Rep. Marcia Morey (D-Durham). That is not just cruel, its dangerous.

Rep. Carla Cunningham (D-Mecklenburg) voted in favor of the bill, saying nowadays you need to know as a parent about the treatment and procedures your children are receiving.

It passed the House 68-41.

The Republican majority also passed House Bill 606, changing the statute of limitations for gender affirming care related medical malpractice claims. This measure removes the cap on noneconomic damages for medical malpractice claims involving gender affirming care. Rep. Allison Dahle (D-Wake) said the bill was intended to strike fear in the hearts of healthcare providers, but it would not change the outcome for those seeking gender transition procedures.

State auditor investigating publicly funded entities

Republicans continued their quest to further empower new state Auditor Dave Boliek with another bill passed Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

House Bill 549 grants Bolieks office the power to investigate any entity that receives state or federal money, an expansion of his current authority auditing state agencies and government programs.

And it was further amended Tuesday to remove exemptions from state workers under the auditors office  effectively allowing Boliek to replace those workers with new hires.

This gives him a little exercise of freedom to run his office a little more efficiently, said House Majority Leader Brenden Jones (R-Columbus).

Jones acknowledged that there was still further work to be done with the bill. Democrats urged their colleagues to halt the bill  dubious of it improving in the Senate and worried about its impacts on the auditors office in the long term.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rep. Tim Longest (D-Wake) said the removed exemptions was politicizing state employment. And House Democratic Leader Robert Reives (D-Chatham) questioned why lawmakers werent giving that same trust to state employees that are already there.

The bill passed the House 66-46.

Bills in committee: Drivers licenses, death penalty and constitutional convention

A number of prominent bills also continued advancing through committees Tuesday ahead of Thursdays deadline.

Suspension on drivers license expirations: North Carolina drivers licenses set to expire would remain valid for two years under a bill considered Tuesday.

House Bill 821 comes as the state DMV continues to face struggles, with many North Carolinians unable to make an appointment to renew their licenses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hopefully this will relieve the DMV of some renewals so they can organize themselves better and address their responsibilities, said Rep. Jay Adams (R-Catawba).

The legislation also allows lawmakers to consider the several ongoing studies of the department and eventually issue recommendations.

Electric chair and firing squad death penalties: The House Committee on State and Local Government approved a bill Tuesday permitting use of the electric chair and death by firing squad with the goal of ending a nearly 20-year moratorium on the death penalty.

House Bill 270 could allow the first execution by electrocution in North Carolina in almost a century.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rep. Reece Prytle (R-Rockingham) said the measure seeks to restore the death penalty as a deterrent and an option for prosecutors across the state, adding that it would create no new capital offenses and was limited in scope to resuming executions.

The bill drew pushback from Democratic representatives who questioned the safety and efficacy of the methods of capital punishment it would introduce.

Rep. Vernetta Alston (D-Durham) cited the costs the state would incur in creating the infrastructure to carry out execution via the electric chair, which no prison in the state is currently equipped to perform.

Foster care: The House unanimously approved a bill overhauling the state foster care system. House Bill 612 gives the state Department of Health and Human Services greater oversight of child welfare cases in county offices, allows for open adoptions, and removes the requirement that parents pay child support for children in county custody, among other changes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

DHHS sets child welfare policies, but its the responsibility of counties to administer them. The decentralized system leads to variations in operations and decisions.

Legislators have been talking for years about the need for improvements, said Rep. Allen Chesser (R-Nash), the bills lead sponsor.

Were at the position where we can start turning the ship where we really start putting children first and families first in our system, he said.

Constitutional convention: A House judiciary committee also advanced a joint resolution Tuesday that would call for a national convention to make changes to the U.S. Constitution.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rep. Dennis Riddell (R-Alamance) said with House Joint Resolution 379, North Carolina will join 19 other states seeking to amend the federal Constitution. The Convention of States seeks to impose term limits, greater fiscal restraint, and limit the scope and reach of the federal government.

It was designed to give the states an opportunity to put in corrections to the national government, if the federal government is becoming rather obtuse and not paying attention, Riddell said.

North Carolina Republicans in the House and Senate have filed similar bills for years. But with the crossover deadline fast approaching, its unclear if this years attempt will advance.

NC Newslines Brandon Kingdollar, Clayton Henkel, and Lynn Bonner contributed reporting.
The North Carolina House on Tuesday passed a bill expanding the powers of the state auditor, a typically low-profile office that Republican lawmakers have repeatedly sought to embolden since November, when it was won by a Republican for the first time in 16 years.

It ensures the state auditor can do the job the voters elected him to do: protecting taxpayers, detecting fraud and holding public spending to account, House Majority Leader Brenden Jones, the bills sponsor, said.

House Bill 549, which passed along party lines, would empower Auditor Dave Boliek to investigate any non-governmental organization that receives public funds, and would greatly expand his offices access to state databases. The bill would also give him more flexibility over hiring and firing staff in his office  a move critics warned could turn merit-based state jobs into political appointments.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Starting July 1, the bill would exempt new hires in the auditors office from the State Human Resources Act  a broad law which establishes protections for state employees. It would give current employees the choice to exempt themselves from the act.

What youre saying, if you are seeking to make these positions exempt, is that political preferences should take precedent over merit  but for the employees in this office only, Rep. Tim Longest, a Wake County Democrat, said.

Longest attempted to amend the bill to remove the HR exemptions, but Republicans blocked that change.

The State Employees Association of North Carolina also came out strongly against the bills HR changes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I can think of no agency where its more important that someone be impartial, nonpolitical  that somebody be a professional employee, SEANC Executive Director Ardis Watkins told reporters last week. We want the best, not the best connected, working for the state of North Carolina.

Jones acknowledged the bill may require changes, but said they just needed to pass it before Thursday  which marks an important legislative deadline  and that they could make changes once it got to the Senate.

This is not a bogeyman bill, as its being presented, he said. Theres some issues on it and its going to be worked through ... We all believe in our state employees, we all want to do whats right for the state employees  no ones trying to deny that.

Democrats also raised concerns about a portion of the bill that would give the auditor continuous and unrestricted view of databases, datasets, and digital records necessary for any purpose within the authority of the auditor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

House Democratic Leader Robert Reives questioned what could happen if a political appointee in the auditors office were to investigate a business and had an ax to grind.

Thats a lot of sensitive information that is suddenly available that has never been available before to anybody at any time under these type of circumstances, he said. And that really makes me uncomfortable.

Wednesdays vote comes after Senate Republicans advanced their own proposal to expand the auditors powers with a bill called The DAVE Act  a reference to Bolieks first name.

It would give Boliek more power to recommend job cuts or the complete elimination of state agencies  though the legislature would still have the final say.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The DAVE Act passed the Senate earlier this month almost entirely along party lines, with former Senate Democratic leader Dan Blue being the only member of his party to vote in favor of it.

Last year, Republican lawmakers passed a bill stripping the governor of his appointments to the State Board of Elections and transferring them to the auditor instead. That bill, which the Court of Appeals allowed to take effect last week after a lower court had blocked it, makes Boliek the only auditor in the country with election oversight powers.
A bill limiting when minors can consent to medical treatment without parental involvement passed the North Carolina House, with every Republican who voted supporting it and all but four Democrats who voted opposing it.

Rep. Jennifer Balkcom, a Hendersonville Republican, said the bill upheld the essential role of parents in a childs life, especially when it comes to medical decisions.

In almost every area of a childs life, we assume the parents are responsible for their child, Balkcom said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But somehow, when it comes to emotional health, STDs and drug or alcohol abuse, we still have parents have no role. That doesnt make any sense, she said.

House Bill 519, titled the Parents Medical Bill of Rights, would require healthcare providers to obtain parental consent before treating a minor in most cases. That includes care related to mental health, substance use and sexually transmitted infections  areas where current law allows some minors to seek treatment confidentially.

The bill includes exceptions for medical emergencies, abuse or neglect cases, and when a parent or guardian cant be located. It also expands parents rights to access medical records, narrowing when information can be withheld.

Minors would still be able to consent on their own for treatment for a pregnancy, excluding for abortions. They would also be able to consent to treatment for sexually transmitted diseases that can be treated with a prescription with a duration of 10 days or less.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After the bill passed, House Speaker Destin Hall said it was crafted with input from the medical community to balance concerns about minors in abusive situations with parents rights to be involved in their childrens medical care.

But Hall emphasized that the default should be parental involvement.

Unless theres some sort of abuse from a parent, a parent really has a right to know at the end of the day what sort of medical decisions are being made for their child, he said.

Debate during session

Rep. Carla Cunningham, of Charlotte, was one of the four Democrats who voted in favor of the bill. She as joined by Democratic Reps. Abe Jones, Garland Pierce and Amos Quick.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This might be the hardest bill Ill ever have to vote on because of my history with my own child who is involved with (the) long-term mental health and behavioral health population, Cunningham said.

When her son was a teen, she said she was blocked from obtaining records or directing care for his treatment until he was adjudicated as incompetent.

This is hard, but if the patient or your son or your daughter is not getting the proper treatment, then you need to know that, she said. And theres a lot of people that dont know how to advocate and do that, she said.

The bill faced pushback from other Democrats, who said it would limit access to critical care for minors.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rep. Julie Von Haefen, an Apex Democrat, said the bill would create a chilling effect on minors seeking out treatment.

It takes a village to raise a child, Von Haefen said. Parents cannot do it alone. Kids need other adults that they can talk to and who they can trust. Doctors are those trusted adults that I would want my own kids to be able to talk to.

Rep. Deb Butler, a Wilmington Democrat, said not all parents are accepting of the care their child needs.

Some parents are loving and supportive, but others are abusive, absent or deeply opposed to the care their child may need, whether its therapy, birth control, gender affirming treatment, Butler said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its about politics, and our kids deserve better than being used as pawns, she said.

Rep. Dean Arp, a Republican who represents Union County, agreed that children shouldnt be used as pawns, but his statement contradicted Butlers reasoning.

Children should not be used as pawns to further a liberal agenda that further separates the children from their parents, Arp said.

Jillian Riley, director of public affairs for Planned Parenthood South Atlantic in North Carolina said current law provides an opportunity for vulnerable young people to speak privately with a trusted, qualified adult and receive appropriate health care.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Taking this option away will only increase their risk of unintended pregnancy, untreated STIs, and long-term harm to their health, Riley said.

Tami Fitzgerald, executive director of the socially conservative NC Values Coalition, disagreed, saying, Parents need to be involved when children face serious medical conditions.

It is dangerous and irresponsible to allow children to make medical decisions in secret, especially when those decisions involve mental health, drug use or sexual activity, she said.

The bill now moves to the Senate.
A demonstrator holds a sign reading "Trans Kids Belong" at a March 2024 rally outside the North Carolina Legislative Building. Republican state senators have introduced a bill in 2025 that would enact new restrictions on the rights of transgender people. (Photo: Clayton Henkel/NC Newsline)

Committees in both chambers of the North Carolina legislature approved measures Tuesday that would bar state courts and agencies from finding child abuse or neglect based on the denial of a transgender childs identity.

The Parents Protection Act  also known as Senate Bill 442 and House Bill 560  protects anyone who raises a juvenile consistent with the juveniles biological sex from abuse and neglect designations, amending the misdemeanor and felony child abuse statutes to exclude this conduct. It would also bar adoption agencies and foster services from rejecting prospective parents based on their denial of trans identity or refusal to support a trans childs gender transition.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bill is the latest in the series of anti-trans proposals advanced by the legislature, many of which have focused on trans youth in particular. It advanced the same day the House voted on House Bill 519, a Parents Medical Bill of Rights requiring doctors to provide parents and guardians access to minors medical records, which LGBTQ+ activists have warned could out trans youth.

Rep. Donnie Loftis (R-Gaston) (photo: NCGA video stream)

Sen. Amy Galey (R-Alamance), one of the bills primary sponsors in the Senate, said the bills aim is to protect caretakers ability to raise their children without the threat of losing custody because they refuse to affirm the gender identity of a child who is experiencing gender dysphoria and shield them from prosecution should they refuse to support a gender transition for their child.

Rep. Donnie Loftis (R-Gaston), a lead sponsor of the House version of the bill, cited instances in Indiana and California in which parents lost custody of trans children because they refused to support their gender identity on the basis of religious views. He also pointed to the case of a woman in Oregon who was rejected as a potential adoptive parent because she would not commit to supporting a childs hypothetical gender transition.

Its a bill that upholds one of the most fundamental principles in American law and family life: that parents, not the state, are the ones best positioned to care and guide their children, Loftis told a meeting of the House Judiciary 2 Committee. This is not just a legal tradition, its a moral one  we must presume that parents love their children more than any bureaucrat or judge ever could.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Galey and Loftis both stressed that the bill would not permit parents or guardians to justify abusive or neglectful conduct by citing gender identity. It does not allow parents to abuse their child and try to defend their abuse by saying they disagree with their childs feelings, Loftis said.

Loftis added that the bill does not seek to mandate any set of views on gender for parents; instead, he described the motivation as protecting parents rights to exercise traditional, historic, and scientific beliefs about gender.

Sen. Lisa Grafstein (Photo: NCGA)

In the Senate Judiciary Committee, Sen. Lisa Grafstein (D-Wake) raised the concern that the bill does nothing to offer these same protections to parents who support a childs transition from allegations of abuse and neglect over their views on gender identity.

It doesnt protect parents who do affirm their childs gender identity. It doesnt protect parents who support the kinds of counseling and other supportive measures that may be available, Grafstein said. I sent you a few articles about some claims that have been made about parents who are in support of their childs gender identity being accused of being abusive toward their children.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Galey said that reports for abuse over gender affirming care were not happening and theres not a basis in fact for that assertion. In response, Grafstein cited an order by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott that families giving children access to such care be investigated for child abuse.

The House committee debate largely focused on the stipulations for foster care specifically. Rep. Deb Butler (D-New Hanover), herself a foster parent, said a higher standard must be set for foster placement so that trans children are not knowingly sent to parents who deny their identity.

The standard has always been when placing a child, what is in the best interest of that child? Butler said. By the time you get to foster care, youve already suffered immeasurably, and to not place a child who has expressed gender identity issues or concerns  to place them into a home with the knowledge that that family is not supportive or thoughtful about that issue is doing further damage to that child.

While the Senate panel saw no public comment on the bill, in the House, both trans rights supporters and conservative religious activists made their case to lawmakers. Kyle Warren-Love, a trans man from Caswell County, said his community supports him and he wants trans children in foster care to receive the same.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We want the same care and support for children who are in foster care in a tough situation, Warren-Love said. This pain should not be encouraged, this pain should not be prolonged, but this bill will allow exactly that.

Jansen White, the Department of Health and Human Services director of legislative affairs, said she fears the provisions around foster care undermine the ability of the courts and social services to determine the best placement for a child.

John Rustin, president of the North Carolina Family Policy Council, said his nonprofit wholeheartedly supports the bill on the grounds that it seeks to protect the rights of parents to raise their children consistent with their God-given, innate biological sex.

Parents should never fear reprisal from the government or others for recognizing and acknowledging the difference between male and female and for raising their children accordingly, Rustin said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Joseph Backholm, a government affairs representative with the NC Values Coalition, focused his remarks on the foster care concerns. In his interpretation, the bill does not grant any foster family a specific right to a specific child, but instead forbids blanket prohibitions on prospective parents who would not support a gender transition. It, of course, does not disable DHHS ability to specifically evaluate whats in the best interest of the child, he said.

Both versions of the bill also passed their chambers respective Rules Committees Tuesday afternoon and can now be scheduled for a floor vote. Under the General Assemblys crossover deadline, both measures must pass at least one chamber by the end of the week to remain eligible for enactment this session.
State Sen. Rob Clements of Elmwood. Aug. 13, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

LINCOLN  Nebraska lawmakers on Tuesday began grappling with key state budget bills, debating into the night on preferred ways to cut or preserve funding to state agencies and programs.

Legislative Bill 261, based on a financial package put forth by Gov. Jim Pillen, is a mainline appropriations bill that dominated floor debate and assigns dollars to areas such as education, courts and economic development, along with state agencies.

A budget book for Nebraskas fiscal years between 2025 and 2027 sits on a lawmakers desk. (Juan Salinas II/Nebraska Examiner)

After about eight hours, a 37-6 vote moved that amended legislation to the second of three rounds of lawmaking debate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

State Sen. Rob Clements, chair of the budget-writing Appropriations Committee, said LB 261 holds flat allocations to most agency operational budgets but allows for increases to employee salaries.

It recommends about $11 billion in spending over the biennial. Thats an average two-year spending increase of 1.5% over the current budget year.

Financial challenges

The Elmwood lawmaker spoke of challenges, including federal rate changes to Medicaid and a late dire report by the Economic Forecasting Advisory Board. The state was hit with $630 million in revenue reductions, he said.

Going into Tuesdays debate, lawmakers faced a nearly $262 million projected budget deficit over the next two years. That includes all initial Appropriations Committee recommendations by mid-April, as well $136 million in changes to annual school retirement contributions and business incentives.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We have absorbed those without making drastic cuts, Clements said while encouraging support for the budget. So were protecting our employees and then asking agencies to get by until revenues are increased.

Upon questioning by a few lawmakers, Clements acknowledged that the financial proposal, as is, does not present a balanced budget as required by the state Constitution. The Appropriations Committee plans an amendment for the second round of debate that will shore up an additional $135 million in reduced spending or additional cash fund transfers, and $132 million will be infused into the states general fund pocketbook from the states rainy day cash reserve fund.

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)

Were not even at the baseline question yet, said State Sen. John Cavanaugh of Omaha, a nod to work that lies ahead to rightsize the state budget before the session ends, as required.

Ten bills were folded into LB 261, including one that would direct $10 million to nonprofits that provide food assistance and another $10 million over two years from general funds so community colleges can provide more dual enrollment programs that help high school students earn college credit.

Halt to projects

Progressive-leaning lawmakers advocated for less funding for major state initiatives such as construction of the Perkins County Canal and a new state prison. They argued to spend more elsewhere, to avoid cuts to needed programs and services, including problem-solving courts aimed at keeping more Nebraskans stable and out of the court system.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The appropriations proposal includes a $16.9 million increase to the Supreme Court and the state court system over two years, and Clements noted that the courts and other agencies could come back next year to request a bump. I do like those problem solving courts, he said.

The University of Nebraska, while set to get $13.1 million more over the next two years than it currently does, would be funded at less than requested and anticipated. NU President Dr. Jeffrey Gold has predicted possible tuition increases.

A banner near the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus on Mar. 16, 2025. (Juan Salinas II/Nebraska Examiner)

Upon questioning by State Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln, Clements said the Nebraska Promise tuition-free assistance program for undergraduates still exists for families with very low incomes. Conrad lauded that program generally open to Nebraskans with family incomes of $65,000 or less, but said it does not apply to a major portion of students.

She criticized the proposed sweep of one-time cash funds from multiple agencies to prop up the states financial picture.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This budget is cobbled together with bailing wire and bubble gum, said Conrad. It limps us along  with no clear plan for the future and no answers as to what this means for our states leading institutions like the university.

Would you run your family business like this? Would you run your family budget like this?

Hurting everyday people

Conrad joined other Democratic lawmakers, including State Sen. George Dungan of Lincoln, who pushed back on factors they said created a service-slashing environment he said would hurt everyday people.

Said Lincoln State Sen. Jane Raybould: There can be no denying that when we passed the accelerated income tax rate reductions in 2023, we were setting ourselves up for a structural imbalance.

State Sen. Jane Raybould of Lincoln talks with State Sen. Stan Clouse of Kearney. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

She said she pointed out to colleagues then, and during the more recent Pillen-backed property tax relief push, that such efforts were not sustainable. There was no revenue to supplant the revenue lost.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To alleviate the budget shortfall, Raybould suggested reducing by $100 million the amount headed toward the Perkins County Canal, pausing for two years the new prison build and freezing phased income and corporate tax reductions (as proposed by Legislative Bill 171 by State Sen. Tom Brandt of Plymouth).

Several lawmakers, including State Sen. Mike Jacobson of North Platte, defended funds earmarked for the western Nebraska canal, which would transport water from the South Platte River in Colorado into Nebraska and has spurred water rights debates between the two states.

Lets be clear: Were taking away the states future to water rights if we take money out of that fund, Jacobson said. If we flinch now we will never get this built. No one will take us seriously.

State Sen. Christy Armendariz of Omaha called the canal project a good long-term investment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Water is the current gold, from what I hear, she said. Taking the money away from it is just robbing our future.

State Sen. John Cavanaugh advocated for cutting back the canal fund over slashing a water conservation fund that benefits such efforts as irrigation reuse pits and water ways.

Meals on wheels

Part of the morning debate focused on what turned out to be a controversial amendment proposed by State Sen. Glen Meyer of Pender to direct $4 million to senior centers and Meals-On-Wheels programs across the state.

No senator voiced opposition to the boost for the aging, but several objected because tying the Meyer bill to the budget package essentially would have killed his previous version that had included an amendment from State Sen. Terrell McKinney of North Omaha.

State Sen. Terrell McKinney of Omaha. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

That McKinney amendment included his priority legislation that funds a pilot program designed to help keep at-risk youths out of jail.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

McKinney, angry about what he called political maneuvering to sidestep his priority bill, vowed to be a disruptor of the remaining days of the session if his Family Resource and Juvenile Assessment Center pilot did not survive. Subject to available funds, it aimed to use up to $1 million annually for five years from a Medicaid cash fund.

An amendment by State Sen. Dunixi Guereca of Omaha, which passed on a 29-7 vote, was the days only change. Guereca proposed directing $300,000 to the Special Olympics from the health care cash fund, which is filled by the tobacco settlement fund.

The move was opposed by senators including Clements, who said he is still uncertain how an earlier $500,000 award to the group was used.

State Sen. Merv Riepe of Ralston called the Special Olympics an excellent cause and said such funding would be fine if the state were rolling in cash. He said hospitals and philanthropists should supply those dollars.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is not one of our primary core businesses, he said.

State Sen. Rob Dover of Norfolk, in a nod to an often contentious and continuing budget-setting process, said: We are divided by party and by urban and rural. But hopefully we can respect each other and have a good debate.

Major changes

The budget advanced by the Appropriations Committee two weeks ago has the following major changes compared to November:

$193.6 million less spending than originally projected.

$160.4 million in sweeps of various cash funds or other transfers to the states main pocketbook (such as $27.7 million from the Water Recreation Enhancement Fund, $20.5 million from the Economic Development Cash Fund, $15 million from the Economic Recovery Contingency Fund, $13.5 million from the Site and Building Development Fund, $12 million from the Intern Nebraska Cash Fund, $10.2 million from the Youth Outdoor Recreation Fund, $8.6 million from the Health and Human Services Cash Fund, $7 million from the Vehicle Title & Registration System Replacement Fund, $4.4 million from the Jobs and Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) Fund and $4 million from the Lead Service Line Fund).

$50.3 million in investment earnings (such as from the Perkins County Canal Fund, Inland Port Authority Fund, 911 Service System Fund, Economic Recovery Contingency Fund and the Nebraska Capital Construction Fund).

$39.6 million in fewer transfers to existing cash funds ($22 million less to the Water Sustainability Fund, $16 million less to the Education Future Fund and $5 million less to the Property Tax Credit Fund, but $2 million more to the Public Advocacy Cash Fund).

Nebraska Examiner reporter Zach Wendling
NESS CITY, Kan. (KSNW)  Voters have rejected a $24 million bond issue proposed by USD 303 to address longstanding facility challenges and aging infrastructure in Ness City Schools.

According to unofficial results shared by the district, the bond measure failed by a wide margin, with 507 voting no and just 179 in favor. In a brief statement, the district thanked those who contributed to the process and said the Board of Education will consider next steps in the coming months.

Vehicle found at the bottom of a Kansas lake

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The proposal sought to fund improvements, including a new gymnasium, locker rooms, and a secure connector between the elementary and high school buildings, which currently sit across the street from one another. It also included plans for a storm shelter, ADA accessibility upgrades, and entrance renovations for improved security.

Superintendent Derek Reinhardt previously said the bond was a response to years of deferred maintenance and temporary fixes. A similar effort more than a decade ago stalled amid a local economic downturn. Since then, rising construction costs and aging systems have added urgency to the districts plans.

Despite those concerns, voters turned down the measure. The school board is expected to revisit the issue in future meetings.

For more information on the bond, click here.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For more Kansas news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news by downloading our mobile app and signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track 3 Weather app by clicking 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 KSN-TV.
The Netherlands has called on the European Union to review its partnership with Israel in light of the ongoing blockade of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.

Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp said Israel's aid blockade breaches democratic principles and human rights.

"The blockade violates international humanitarian law," he added.

In a letter, Veldkamp called on EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas to investigate whether Israel is still complying with the terms of the EU-Israel Association Agreement that entered into force in 2000 and provides for regular exchanges to strengthen the partnership.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Israel has not allowed food, medicine or other essential goods into the Gaza Strip for two months, with the stated aim of putting pressure on the Palestinian Islamist Hamas group to release the remaining hostages.

Israel also accuses Hamas of seizing the aid supplies and selling them to citizens at high prices.

Veldkamp, of the centrist New Social Contract party, said the blockade violates the agreement and that the Netherlands would not support an extension of the deal until a review had been carried out.

In view of the announced expansion of the offensive in the Gaza Strip and the possibility of a full occupation, a clear line must be drawn, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Netherlands also doubts whether Israel's new mechanism for the distribution of aid is "in line with the humanitarian principles of neutrality, impartiality and independence," the minister said.

Israel's Security Cabinet has eventually agreed to distribute aid using private security companies, an approach the UN condemned as violating core humanitarian principles.
BRUSSELS (AP)  Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp said Wednesday that the Netherlands is drawing a line in the sand over Israels actions in Gaza and is insisting on a review of a European Union pact governing trade ties with the country.

Israeli strikes across Gaza killed at least 59 people on Wednesday, including women and children, hospital officials said, as Israel prepares to ramp up its campaign against Hamas in a devastating war now entering its 20th month.

With Israel blocking any form of aid  including food and medicine  into Gaza for the past two months, aid groups have warned that Gazas civilian population is facing starvation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Veldkamp expressed concern that Israels blockade on food and aid entering Gaza continues, that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants to intensify the war and that some ministers have suggested that Israel should occupy the territory.

Speaking at a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Warsaw, Veldkamp said that the Netherlands is drawing a line in the sand because the situation in the Gaza Strip is dismal, a catastrophic humanitarian situation.

Once a strong backer of Israel, the Netherlands has taken an increasingly tougher line in recent months.

The chances for a new ceasefire have become very, very limited, Veldkamp said. In view of the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and action of the Israeli authorities, which go against international humanitarian law, I believe that this signal has to be given.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ties between the EU and Israel  which are major trading partners  are governed by a so-called Association Agreement. It stipulates that their ties shall be based on respect for human rights and democratic principles.

The Dutch government intends to block the agreement pending an EU review into whether the Israeli government is complying with the pact, which entered force in 2000.

Israels offensive has killed more than 52,000 people in Gaza, many of them women and children, according to Palestinian health officials. The officials do not distinguish between combatants and civilians in their count.

The war began when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking about 250 hostages. Israel blames Hamas for the rising death toll in Gaza because it operates from civilian infrastructure, including schools.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The latest bloodshed came days after Israel approved a plan to intensify its operations in the Palestinian enclave. It would include seizing Gaza, holding on to captured territories, forcibly displacing Palestinians to southern Gaza and taking control of aid distribution along with private security companies.

Israel is also calling up tens of thousands of reserve soldiers to carry out the plan.

Other ministers were also worried about developments in Gaza.

Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot said that its time for the European Union and for the whole international community to wake up. Honestly, what we are seeing is an absolute shame. Its not acceptable.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Luxembourg Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel said he had spent a lot of time in the region in recent months, but that his pleas to Israel to show restraint have fallen on deaf ears.

I have the feeling theyre listening to no one. I fully understand they have pressure, and Hamas, and they still have hostages. But we have to be around to table to see how we can find solutions, Bettel told reporters.

We need to find a solution on that and not to give the impression to the Palestinians that at the end of the day, they wont exist anymore, neither as a country nor as population, he said.

Bettel and his EU counterparts are expected to discuss the Dutch initiative on Thursday, but its unclear whether the 27-nation bloc will take a stand. Last year, Ireland and Spain tried to press their EU partners to examine whether Israel has broken the rules.

The EU is deeply divided over how to respond to the conflict, and it holds little leverage over Israel. Austria, Germany and Hungary have tended to back the Israeli government, while Ireland and Spain have been more vocal in their support for the Palestinians.
LAS VEGAS (AP)  Nevada's high court is weighing whether to open up courtroom access and unseal records in the secretive legal dispute over who will control Rupert Murdoch's powerful media empire after he dies.

The case has been unfolding behind closed doors in state court in Reno, with most documents under seal. But reporting by The New York Times, which said it obtained some of the documents, revealed Murdoch's efforts to give control to just one of his sons to ensure that Fox News maintains its conservative editorial slant.

The Nevada Supreme Court heard arguments Wednesday on a bid by media outlets including the Times and The Associated Press to let the public in on the Murdochs' legal spat. The court said it will issue its decision at a later date.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Murdochs media empire, which also includes The Wall Street Journal and New York Post, spans continents and helped to shape modern American politics. Lachlan Murdoch has been the head of Fox News and News Corp since his father stepped down in 2023.

The issue at the center of the case is Rupert Murdoch's family trust that would divide control of the company equally among four of his children  Lachlan, Prudence, Elisabeth and James  after his death.

Irrevocable trusts are typically used to limit estate taxes, among other reasons, and cant be changed without permission from the beneficiaries or a court order.

Rupert Murdoch has attempted to alter the trust. But Prudence, Elisabeth and James have united to try to stop that, according to the Times.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

James and Elisabeth are both known to have less conservative political views than their father or brother, potentially complicating the media mogul's desire to keep Fox News' political tone.

The dispute has had many twists and turns, including a probate commissioner ruling against Rupert Murdoch in December.

In a 96-page opinion, the commissioner characterized the plan to change the trust as a carefully crafted charade to permanently cement Lachlan Murdochs executive roles inside the empire regardless of the impacts such control would have over the companies or the beneficiaries of the family trust, according to the Times.

Adam Streisand, a lawyer for Rupert Murdoch, told the newspaper at the time that they were disappointed with the ruling and intended to appeal. Another evidentiary hearing is scheduled for this month.
JAKARTA, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Speaker of Indonesia's House of Representatives, Puan Maharani, held talks with Cambodian Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen in Jakarta on Wednesday to discuss bilateral economic and defense cooperation and unity among Southeast Asian nations.

At a post-meeting press conference, Maharani, daughter of Indonesia's fourth president Megawati Soekarnoputri, said that economic cooperation between the two nations had increased significantly, with trade volume reaching about one billion U.S. dollars in 2024.

She added that both the Indonesian and Cambodian parliaments had agreed to support policies established by their respective governments.

"It's impossible for the executive to work alone without legislative support. Hun Sen also agreed that both the executive and the legislative must work together in implementing public policies," she said.

The parliament chief also noted that Hun Sen emphasized the importance of unity among member states of the Association of Southeast Asian nations (ASEAN), given the current challenging global situation.

"We hope for stronger and better ASEAN solidarity to avoid direct impact from global turmoil," she noted. 
(Getty Images)

Nevada two years ago began using American Rescue Plan Act dollars to expand screenings of newborns for rare diseases. With the end of that federal funding in sight, state lawmakers are looking for a way to keep providing early detection of rare but treatable diseases.

Their proposed solution has been met with opposition from hospital groups who say they shouldnt have to bear the additional cost of the screenings.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sponsored by Democratic state Sen. Julie Pazina of Clark County, Senate Bill 348 would increase the fee hospitals pay the Nevada State Public Health Lab for a newborn screening panel to $150. The current fee is $81 and has been since it was established in 2014.

That year, the Nevada State Public Health Lab at the University of Nevada Reno began screening newborns for 29 heritable conditions. In 2022, lawmakers awarded the lab $3.9 million in ARPA funding, leading it to expand screening by an additional three conditions the following year.

States must spend their ARPA dollars by the end of next year.

The increased fee proposed in SB348 would allow the state lab to continue the ARPA-funded screenings and add an additional four conditions. Those changes would put Nevada in alignment with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services accepted national standard for newborn screening, known as the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel (RUSP).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

SB348 passed the full Senate 16-5, with three Republicans joining Democrats in support. The bill received an Assembly committee hearing Monday.

UNR School of Medicine Dean Paul Hauptman told state lawmakers RUSP includes conditions that have an effective treatment or where early diagnosis is crucial.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 300 newborns is diagnosed with a condition detectable through newborn screening.

Among the RUSP conditions added for screening in Nevada in 2024 was spinal muscular atrophy, which affects motor neurons in the spinal cord and can lead to severe physical disabilities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The public health lab has recently diagnosed several newborns with this condition, meaning treatment has been or can be initiated, Hauptman said. Clearly newborn screening directly impacts the lives of young children and their families.

He added, The only question that remains is who pays.

The Nevada Hospital Association and Nevada Rural Hospital Partners are opposed to SB348, arguing that hospitals shouldnt bear the cost of the additional screenings.

We believe that the state should fund the state lab, said Patrick Kelly, lobbyist for the Nevada Hospital Association. Or if thats not feasible, insurers should cover the cost.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For patients, newborn screenings are covered as part of a global labor and delivery fee, which is typically paid by their insurer to the hospital. Kelly said this means hospitals cannot easily pass on the additional fee to insurance companies or patients.

Stephanie Van Hooser, administrative director of the state lab, testified to lawmakers that Oregons state lab, which Nevada outsourced newborn screenings to prior to 2014 when UNR became the sole provider, has increased their fee from $81 to $175 in the past 11 years.

Newborn screening fees range from $30 in Louisiana to $259 in Rhode Island, according to data from the Association of Public Health Laboratories.

Nevada Medicaid has proposed amending SB348 to include language allowing the state to separately reimburse for newborn screenings. That reimbursement, which could be up to the full $150, would be dependent on available federal and state funding, said top administrator Stacie Weeks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Weeks added that a fiscal analysis found it would cost the state less than $200,000.

Blayne Osborn with Nevada Rural Hospital Partners said the Medicaid amendment might get the group out of opposition because the majority of their births are covered by Medicaid.

Tough bill for us to be opposed to but for us it is just that math problem, he added.

Medicaid covers approximately half of all births in Nevada.

Kelly added that Nevada Medicaids proposed amendment is creative and very appreciated but that everyone has to be realistic about the state of the programs funding at the federal and state level.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Congress and the Trump administration are looking to cut federal spending, which could lead to severe cuts to Medicaid.

Nevadas newborn screening program has also been supported financially by funding from the DHHSs Health Resources and Services Administration, which is also being targeted for federal cuts.

The Trump administration last month also terminated the Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders in Newborns and Children, the committee that makes RUSP recommendations to the U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary.

One moms story

According to Every Life Foundation for Rare Diseases, 13 states have adopted federal RUSP alignment legislation. Nevada is not one of them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pompe, a glycogen storage disorder affecting 1 in 40,000 newborns, was added to the RUSP in 2015. But it is not part of Nevadas screening panel. Pompe is one of the conditions state health officials are hoping to screen for in the next few years, with the help of SB348.

But its too late to help Summer Webbs family.

Although I love living in Las Vegas and raising my family here, I cant help but regret moving here and having my child here, the mother of six wrote in a letter to lawmakers. I must live knowing that if I would have had my son in California, he would have been screened for Pompe at birth and would have been monitored and receiving treatment sooner.

Instead, her son went undiagnosed until he was 3 years old.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What followed was 5 months of life support, ICUs, air ambulances, leaving my other children, complete physical regression, and irreversible damage as he fought for his life waiting to be diagnosed, recalled Webb, who also testified in person during the bills committee hearing.

Webb estimates her sons initial diagnosis came with $2 million in medical costs, including hospitalization in Utah and Los Angeles after local hospitals couldnt help. His ongoing care, which includes long-term physical, occupational and speech rehabilitation and weekly enzyme replacement therapy, are around $400,000 annually.

All of which could have been prevented with a single blood spot test at birth, she added.

In her letter, Webb criticized the pushback on the bill.

The mathand the moralitysimply dont add up, she wrote. Frankly, it is shameful that any hospital in this state is pushing back on this fee.
The air traffic in and out of Newark, New Jersey, will be slowed Wednesday, said officials who insisted travel in and out of the busy hub near New York City remains "absolutely safe."

The slowdown comes in the wake of revelations that controllers lost radio contact with pilots flying into one of the countrys busiest airports in recent months.

"The FAA has been slowing arrivals and departures at Newark Liberty International Airport due to runway construction at Newark and staffing and technology issues at Philadelphia" where the Terminal Radar Approach Control system (TRACON) guides regional air traffic, the Federal Aviation Administration said in a statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The FAA is taking immediate steps to improve the reliability of operations at Newark Liberty International Airport. This includes accelerating technological and logistical improvements and increasing air traffic controller staffing."

Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines, one of the airport's major carriers, insisted that travelers should feel safe flying out of Newark.

"First and most importantly, all the flights in and out of EWR are absolutely safe," Kirby said in a statement Wednesday. "When there are FAA issues  technology outages, staffing shortages, etc.  the FAA requires all airlines to slow down aircraft and/or cancel flights to maintain the highest levels of safety."

Even if an airliner loses contact with air traffic controllers, pilots know how to safely guide their jets, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We do our part to maintain safety as well. As you all know, our pilots have thousands of hours of flight experience and supplement that with regular simulator training  we also have procedures that our pilots follow to re-establish communication if controllers lose radio contact to navigate the airplane safely to its destination," he added.

"In short, neither the FAA nor United pilots will ever compromise on safety."

Despite the assurances, air safety has come under increasing scrutiny in the wake of several accidents this year.

An American Eagle jet and a military Black Hawk helicopter collided in the air over Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport outside Washington, D.C., killing all 67 people aboard both craft on Jan. 29.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

An air ambulance crashed in northeast Philadelphia on Feb. 1, killing seven people and injuring about two dozen more.

Bering Air Flight 445 crashed on its way from Unalakleet, Alaska, to Nome on Feb. 6, killing all 10 people on board.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Terrifying safety lapses at Newark Liberty International Airport are raising the stakes for the Trump administrations still-vague plan for upgrading the nations aviation system  a multibillion-dollar blueprint whose debut is scheduled for Thursday.

The plan, to be announced by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, comes on the heels of a series of unnerving aviation incidents in recent years, most seriously the midair collision near Washington that killed 67 people on Jan. 29. But more than a week of flight delays, cancellations and mechanical malfunctions at Newark has put an exclamation point on the demand for improvements in how the Federal Aviation Administration oversees the skies.

The emerging plan will be one of the most challenging tests yet of the new Trump administrations ability to address years of flaws in an aging, but crucial government function meant to safeguard Americans travel  even as it pursues spending and staffing cuts, including in the FAA. For the air traffic system, any fix will involve dealing with many miles of communications cables, radar and communication equipment scattered around the country, and tens of thousands of safety personnel working some of the nations highest-stress jobs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The most serious incident at Newark occurred April 28, when air traffic controllers monitoring aviation traffic lost sight of planes in midair  and the ability to communicate with them  for about 90 seconds. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has said the breakdown was due to a failing copper communications wire  one example of the aging technology that the FAA is in the process of replacing nationwide.

Plane traffic at Newark has also been hampered by a shortage of air traffic controllers, which in turn prompted United Airlines, which operates a majority of the flights at Newark, to cancel flights and reduce some flight schedules in response to the pressure.

Blitzing the airwaves this week, Duffy promised that his plan  which he says is going to cost tens of billions of dollars and be executed at a scorching timeframe of just a few years  will help solve problems at Newark and around the country. He submitted the plan to the White House in March, and said this week that President Donald Trump had signed off on it.

Were going to need a lot of money from Congress to do this, Duffy said in a Tuesday appearance on CNN. Tossing in a slam at the former Biden administration, he added: Its not going to take 10 years, like [former DOT Secretary] Pete [Buttigieg] suggested.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In an interview later Tuesday evening on MSNBC, Buttigieg noted that the air traffic systems problems have built up over a long time  adding that he hated the technology that we inherited because it did need to be upgraded.

I didn't sit around saying, who can we blame for this? Buttigieg said. We launched a contract to modernize the infrastructure, take what's basically a copper wire system and transform it for the Internet era, get fiber going there. Now, that's not something that could be done overnight.

Indeed, making Duffys plan a reality faces serious odds  chiefly from Congress, where House Republicans have only been able to commit $12.5 billion for the effort. That sum, which lawmakers cut back from an initial $15 billion after deleting roughly $2 billion for replacing some radars and certain facilities, is what lawmakers have called a down payment on achieving Duffys vision, whatever that might be.

The expedited time frame Duffy wants could be just as difficult to achieve, considering the complexity of the aviation system, which is made up of interlaced technologies and a web of safety redundancies. Those systems are in operation all day, every day.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The big-spending request comes at the same time that the Trump administration is making cuts across the federal government and inviting its Department of Government Efficiency to plug in to the aviation system. The role of DOGE  whose leader, Elon Musk, heads companies that could play a role in whatever fix Duffy proposes  has led Democrats to offer mixed signals about the FAA.

Meanwhile, Newark is an airport that is consistently known for flight delays and cancellations  though the latest problems have been much worse than usual.

In a letter to Duffy on Monday, Democratic New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy noted that the nationwide shortfall in air traffic controllers had existed under the Biden administration and offered to work with Trumps agencies on a solution to Newarks woes.

At the federal level, Democrats are cheering the idea of modernizing air traffic technology, while excoriating the administration for its personnel cuts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) said this week that he supports technology upgrades but worries about the additional strain on the FAA and our aviation system because of the termination of thousands of employees that he said support the agencys day-to-day operations.

The FAA is among the many agencies facing strain because of Trumps effort to find hundreds of billions of dollars in cost savings across the federal government  including through resignations and layoffs of employees.

Duffy has said the cuts will not hit any air traffic controllers or other critical safety personnel, and in fact the administration recently rolled out a streamlined hiring process and bonuses intended to help retain existing controllers and to recruit new ones. But union leaders and Democrats have said the cuts have eliminated support staff who help the air traffic controllers do their jobs, and that the months of uncertainty about the layoffs is adding stress to an already-burdened workforce.

Even before the newest problems at Newark, Democrats had been pouncing on those layoffs. In February, during a press conference outside at the Newark airport, Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.) said firing FAA workers is just plain stupid and puts Jersey families and passengers at risk.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Newarks recent problems have sparked new attention from New Jersey politicians of both parties.

In a Wednesday letter to the acting head of the FAA, Democrats from the New Jersey congressional delegation and Rep. Rick Larsen of Washington state, the top Democrat on the House Transportation Committee, said the flying public needs to feel confidence.

That confidence has been shaken time and time again over the past months, the Democrats said, citing various challenges plaguing Newark Airport.

One local Republican lawmaker, state Sen. Holly Schepisi, said she was troubled by former FAA personnel who had told reporters during the past week the Newark airport was unsafe. These claims, if accurate, warrant immediate investigation and action to ensure the safety of travelers and aviation personnel alike, she wrote in a letter this week.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Schepisi urged the FAA to accelerate the hiring and relocation of FAA personnel where possible.

The Trump administration has closely held the exact contents of Duffys plan, but its likely to contain some combinationof investments in new technologies, facilities upgrades and consolidation along with money for air traffic controller retention and hiring and overhauling the FAAs infrastructure that allows facilities to communicate together.

Its not clear how Duffys plan would mesh with already-existing modernization efforts, some of which have been going on for years. For instance, a multibillion-dollar FAA program called NextGen, which aims to transition the country away from passive radars to a satellite-based system for tracking planes, has been ongoing since 2003.

The agency is also in the early stages of a $2.4 billion, 15-year contract with Verizon, issued during the Biden administration, to replace the copper wires that have plagued Newark with modern fiber-optic cables across the country. That effort has attracted attention from Musk, who in late February pitched his company Starlinks satellite communications technology as an interim fix.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After blowback from initial news reports suggesting that Musk was angling for the Verizon contract to be displaced in favor of Starlink, he and Duffy have suggested that Starlink could be among a menu of options instead.

Trump, meanwhile, has a less-than-unblemished track record of moving aviation and infrastructure overhauls through Congress. During his first term, he promised a $1.5 trillion investment in roads and bridges that would have included money for airports  a plan that failed to advance in the GOP-held House and Senate.

Trump also publicly supported a plan in 2017 that would have split air traffic control away from the FAA and placed it inside a nonprofit entity. But that plan faltered a year later after Trump refused to put his weight behind the legislation, people familiar with the proposal told POLITICO at the time.

Duffys plan could be in for its own heat if, as some aviation industry watchers suspect, its underpinned by a plan to significantly consolidate or relocate the FAAs existing aging facilities. Such a proposal could encounter significant opposition from unions whose members dont want to uproot their lives, and politicians eager to maintain jobs and influence in the regions they represent.

A similar dynamic affected Newark last year, when the FAA transferred responsibility of overseeing that airports airspace out of Long Island, New York to Philadelphia  moving roughly two dozen controllers in the process. The FAA said the plan, which had been more than a year in the making, would make flights more manageable for controllers working the congested airspace, while also being able to train new controllers. But lawmakers, including Schumer, said the reassignments were a shortsighted, fleeting solution that could jeopardize safety.
VERNON, Conn. (WTNH)  The FBI has issued a new warning for all parents in Connecticut. A violent online network is growing, and it has ties to a local teenage girl.

This is a story with national, international and local ties. The extremist group 764 has penetrated one local town in Connecticut.

It was in September 2024 that the arrest of the 17-year-old, who police say made several bombs and swatting threats to schools and places of worship, was first reported.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

News 8 heard exclusively from the parents of that Vernon girl, who say they want to warn other families.

764 is an online network trying to promote world chaos, violence and more.

2024: Vernon police arrest teen suspected in threats to schools, places of worship

The girl wanted acceptance into 764, where online predators first gain trust and then blackmail young people into capturing violent content to be shared online everywhere.

Having that victim carve their alias into their body, having that individual commit suicide on the live feed, having that individual kill animals, Vernon Police Detective Thomas Van Tasel said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The arrest of the Vernon teen followed a year-long investigation, and the town was faced with threats. According to authorities, the more gore or violence, the better because it raises the participants stature within 764.

National partners at ABC News and the investigative unit spoke exclusively with the Vernon girls parents. ABC agreed to alter their faces and voices.

We didnt raise her to engage in that kind of activity, they said. Its like she was raised to be a law-abiding citizen.

Their daughter shared pornographic images and even this Barbie doll with 764 carved in the forehead.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bomb threat targets top Connecticut Republican Sen. Steve Hardings Brookfield home

Before it started, she was a child who was on the honor roll. She had a lot of friends. She attended school activities and hung out with a lot of friends in person, the parents said.

The detective was asked if the girl from Vernon was a victim or a participant.

Depending on you ask that question to, the answer may be different, Van Tasel said.

According to her mother, the young girl from Vernon is cooperating with authorities, and shes receiving therapy, trying to get her life back on track.

Vernon police said to look for signs of self-harm, suicidal thoughts, behavior changes and changes in eating habits.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Officials advise parents to check gaming platforms and phones and to look through for any disturbing content.

Watch the full story 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 WTNH.com.
WARREN, Ohio (WKBN)  A Newton Falls man entered a plea on Tuesday in a child sex abuse material case.

David Lucero, 45, pleaded guilty to six counts of pandering sexually oriented material involving a minor and two counts of illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material or performance, all second-degree felonies, according to a court employee. The employee said that as part of the plea deal, the remaining charges will be dismissed.

Lucero faced 30 charges following an indictment by a Trumbull County grand jury in November.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The indictment alleged Lucero created, recorded, photographed and/or filmed material or performance that shows a minor knowingly participating or engaging in sexual activity.

Each charge was filed in response to individual videos found on a device in Luceros possession. The incidents took place from July to September of 2023, the indictment states.

Lucero will receive his sentence after a presentencing investigation. As part of his sentence, he will have to register as a Tier 2 sex offender.

Laurel Stone 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.
SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP, Ohio (WJW)  Chewy the raccoon is safe and secure after he was discovered playing with meth pipes during a traffic stop Monday evening, police said.

Man killed in Geauga County crash that involved dump truck

Officers Austin Branham and Ty Klapp with the Springfield Township Police Department detailed the first-of-their-careers encounter Wednesday and explained what will happen to the pet raccoon as his owner now faces felony drug charges.

(Photo Credit: Springfield Township Police)

Chewy, who the officers described as extremely playful, was discovered in Victoria Page-Vidals vehicle after the 55-year-old woman was stopped for driving under suspension. She also had an active warrant for her arrest, police said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After Page-Vidal was detained in a police vehicle, officers returned to her vehicle and found Chewy with a meth pipe in his hand.

ODOT workers protective device hit in I-90 crash

Definitely not an everyday thing, said officer Branham, whose body-camera captured the incident thats now getting national attention.

Police recovered a bag containing crystal meth, crack cocaine and three used meth pipes from the vehicle.

Meanwhile, police moved Chewy into a pet carrier and contacted the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. The raccoon was then sent home with a family member of Page-Vidals family.

It is legal to own a raccoon in the state of Ohio with a proper permit, which Chewys owners could not produce, according to police. Now, he will either be re-homed or police will help the family obtain the proper certification to properly and legally own him.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While Chewy was seen in the body-camera video holding one of the pipes to his mouth, police do not believe the animal ingested any drugs.

116-unit apartment building evacuated overnight

The pipes themselves didnt have any residue inside of them, just the burned amount that was on the outside of it so there was no inherent risk for Chewy to have exposure, said Officer Branham.

The unique animal encounter is going viral in a humorous fashion, for obvious reasons, but police are also acknowledging the seriousness of the situation.

As humor as it is, having an animal, more of a rabid animal, with drug paraphernalia, you gotta more so think about the driver of the vehicle and her needing the help that shes gonna get, hopefully that she gets, for her drug issue, said Officer Klapp. Cuz it couldve been a kid rather than a raccoon, so you gotta look at it that way.

Victoria Vidal-Page (Photo Credit: Springfield Township Police)

According to police, Page-Vidal told officers that she is currently living out of a home in Akron and her vehicle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Miniature dachshund captured after 18 months on remote island

It is very sad to see someone in that condition with that addiction that is battling that every day. So thats why weve been in contact with ODNR because we want to make sure that she can get the proper paperwork that she may not be able to afford or obtain because of her current situation.

Page-Vidal is facing charges of possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia.

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.
In launching military strikes on nine sites in Pakistan, India has ignited an inferno in the region, and is responsible for any further escalation, Islamabad has said.

This rhetoric has the world on edge, with fears growing that an all out war could erupt between nuclear-armed adversaries.

Shortly after the overnight missile strikes, Delhi declared that justice had been done. But that does not mean the fighting will stop.

Will Pakistan retaliate?

Pakistan has called the strikes an act of war and has authorised its armed forces to conduct retaliatory measures.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What is happening across the neighbours contested frontier might look like the start of an all-out conflict, but it is not yet, and the two powers will be under intense pressure to make sure it does not escalate to get there.

In their decades of antagonism, India and Pakistan have been here before and managed to step back from the brink.

Credit: Social Media

Allies of the two sides, including America, the UK, and China are urgently intervening to try to ensure that they back down once again.

Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, told Parliament that Britain was encouraging dialogue as well as de-escalation in the worst violence between the countries in two decades that has left at least 38 dead.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To do that, the two sides must somehow be able to make claims that they have acted robustly to defend their nations, and their honours have been satisfied.

Fortunately, beyond the bellicose nationalist rhetoric of social media and rolling news coverage, each side also has experienced civilian and military figures who have years of dealing with deterrence and escalation, and trying to manage their confrontations.

For all the martial fervour from India, even as it launched the strikes, Delhi has been careful in its language and in the choice of targets.

India stressed that no Pakistani military facilities have been targeted and that it had instead demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Delhi told the world, and Islamabad, that its strikes had been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature.

The problem is that once missiles and planes begin flying and casualties mount, events can take on a momentum of their own and quickly spiral out of control.

Both nations have large militaries and nuclear arms. In recent years, Pakistan has grown close to China and India has grown closer to America, though this is not a proxy conflict.

Worried diplomats will hope that a similar flare-up six years ago may form the template for how the current tension may be dissipated.

In early 2019, the Pulwama bombing killed 40 Indian paramilitary personnel. Delhi responded with air strikes against what it said was a terrorist training camp in Balakot, a claim rejected by Islamabad, which said it was uninhabited forest.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The following day Pakistan launched a retaliatory raid and an Indian air force pilot was shot down in a dogfight and taken prisoner.

Despite the escalation, after that clash and the handover of the captured pilot, the enemies were able to ease tensions.

Each nation felt able to tell its population that it had come out on top.

Today, each countrys leadership and watching diplomats will be hoping that such an off-ramp remains the most likely outcome now.

Once again, the region finds itself walking a difficult tightrope between escalation and restraint.

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.
As Rome prepares for a new papal election following the death of Pope Francis , an air of both reverence and apprehension has settled over the Vatican. For LGBTQ+ Catholics and their allies, the conclave signals a pivotal moment, one that could either sustain the spirit of inclusion Pope Francis championed, curtail it, or send it backwards.

Michael OLoughlin, executive director of Outreach , a resource ministry for LGBTQ+ Catholics, is in Rome during this time of transition.

Theres still memorials to Pope Francis, he told The Advocate, but everyone is talking about the conclave and who will be elected next. For Catholics who really admired Pope Francis, theres probably a little nervousness about who might follow him.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The anxiety is not only palatable but understandable. While Pope Francis appointed roughly 80 percent of the cardinals eligible to vote in this conclave, a move that should, at least on paper, tilt the scales toward continuity, OLoughlin notes that geography doesn't always dictate ideology.

Even though he made the College of Cardinals more diverse by appointing men from places that didnt traditionally have cardinals, they come from more conservative areas as well, he explained. So it doesnt necessarily mean theyre on board with Francis outreach, especially to the LGBT community.

Still, there is cautious hope. Many observers believe there is an appetite among the cardinals to elect someone who can preserve Francis pastoral tone without generating quite so many headlines. OLoughlin describes the mood as open to a pope who will continue the Churchs emphasis on mercy and inclusion, but in a steadier, quieter form. Someone who admired Pope Franciss courtesy, but who maybe is a little less charismatic. Someone calmer and more steady, he pointed out.

Among the names being floated, a few have emerged as contenders who might carry forward aspects of Francis' legacy, especially regarding LGBTQ+ inclusion. According to OLoughlin , one of the more promising figures is Cardinal Matteo Zuppi of Italy, a close ally of Francis and a voice for a more inclusive Church. Zuppi has written prefaces for books on LGBTQ+ Catholics and has been vocal about the need for welcome, even as he upholds traditional Church teachings on marriage, explained OLoughlin.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Another possibility O'Loughlin mentioned is Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines, who was once considered a frontrunner. Tagle has similarly walked a tightrope, emphasizing pastoral care for LGBTQ+ Catholics while remaining doctrinally conservative. His momentum, however, appears to have waned in recent days, raising questions about how much sway Franciss closest allies still hold within the conclave.

OLoughlin said that perhaps the most widely mentioned candidate is Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vaticans Secretary of State. Parolin embodies the continuity without drama profile many in the Church hierarchy seem to desire, OLouglin noted. Though close to Francis in governance, he is considered more traditional, especially on LGBTQ+ issues. His election would likely mark a return to a more cautious and reserved papal style, and one that extends the olive branch but doesnt push the boundaries.

On the more conservative end is Cardinal Peter Erdo of Hungary. OLoughlin explained that he is a canon lawyer known for his careful, measured language. Hes seen as a palatable choice for those favoring a more traditional Church, particularly on sexuality and gender, and would likely appeal to conservatives within the College of Cardinals, OLoughlin said.

While not known for inflammatory remarks, Erdos reluctance to endorse LGBTQ+ outreach suggests a cooling of the Francis-era momentum.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For many Catholics, though, the conclave isnt just about theology or doctrine; its also about tone, style, and symbolism. Pope Francis r edefined the papacy in profound ways. He declined the opulent Apostolic Palace in favor of a modest Vatican guesthouse. He rejected the gilded vestments often worn by popes, choosing instead to step onto the balcony in 2013 dressed simply .

Famously, he traveled in a Ford Focus . These choices were not just personal preferences. They were statements of humility.

Whether the next pope will follow suit remains to be seen. Thats one of the big questions, OLoughlin said. Will the new pope step onto the balcony without the traditional garments? If he does wear them, it might suggest a return to papal grandeur. Every detail in those early moments will be scrutinized and compared to Francis.

And its not just about appearances. Francis legacy, his commitment to a more inclusive Church, his outreach to LGBTQ+ Catholics, his symbolic rejection of extravagance, has left a powerful imprint. Whoever is elected will have to navigate that legacy, OLoughlin explained. Even if they dont embrace all his reforms, theyll need to respond to the expectations he set.

As cardinals prepare to cast their votes under Michelangelos ceiling in the Sistine Chapel, the world watches and waits. For LGBTQ+ Catholics especially, the next pope will send a message not just with his first homily, but with his first step onto the balcony. Will it be a message that will either echo Pope Francis call for mercy, or retreat from it?
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  A Niagara Falls man could get life in prison after he was found guilty by a jury of murder, according to the Niagara County District Attorneys Office.

Officials said Juan Ubiles, 40, fatally shot Gregory Vincent, 44, also of Niagara Falls, the morning of June 19, 2023. The incident occurred on the 2000 block of 18th Street. Vincent was pronounced dead at the Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center.

Ubiles was considered an armed and potentially dangerous suspect at the time. He was on the run for months before he was found in Philadelphia in September 2023. He now faces up to 40 years to life upon sentencing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This was a brazen and cold-blooded killing by an individual with a prior illegal weapon conviction, said Niagara County District Attorney Brian Seaman. The defendant shot the victim down in the street in broad daylight with an illegal gun. We will be seeking the maximum sentence.

A jury found Ubiles guilty of second-degree murder and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.

Latest Local News

Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University.

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.
Nikita Casap, the 17-year boy charged in the death of his parents in the Village of Waukesha, has pleaded not guilty on the now 10 felony counts he is facing.

Casap was arraigned May 7 in Waukesha County Circuit Court, moving the homicide case forward, even while prosecutors continue to indicate that additional charges may be coming as the investigation continues. The hearing made no mention of the case's connection an FBI investigation of a possible assassination plot by Casap aimed at President Donald Trump, however,

The two first-degree intentional homicide counts are tied to the deaths of Nikita Casap's mother, Tatiana Casap, and stepfather, Donald Mayer, whose bodies were discovered Feb. 28 inside their Cider Hills Drive house by Waukesha County Sheriff's Office deputies. Both had been shot, with their bodies concealed under piles of clothing or other materials in the home where Nikita Casap also lived.

Nikita Casap appears at his arraignment Wednesday, May 7, 2025 in Waukesha County Circuit Court in Waukesha, Wisconsin. Federal authorities believe Casap, a 17-year-old Waukesha boy, killed his mother and stepfather as part of a plot to assassinate President Donald Trump.

New team now begins work in Casap's defense

During the arraignment hearing, Casap did not speak, but his new attorneys did. Katie Holtz and Paul Rifelj from Wisconsin State Public Defenders office in Wauwatosa entered a plea of not guilty on his behalf.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Holtz and Rifelj, who were appointed April 22 to replace attorneys from the Waukesha County state public defenders office, told Judge Ralph M. Ramirez that it was too early in their tenure and the proceedings to file any defense motions. They'll spend the next three months reviewing discovery materials submitted to the defense team May 7 by Waukesha County District Attorney Lesli Boese, the lead prosecutor in the case.

Boese told Ramirez that a 10th felony count, intimidation of a witness with a threat of force, was added May 7. That count involves an unidentified Waukesha West High School female classmate who said Casap threatened her if she revealed any of what Casap told her weeks before the deaths.

Following the hearing, Boese told reporters that prosecutors were able to include the latest charge at the arraignment because the allegations were included in the nine-count original complaint as well as in testimony at an April 9 preliminary hearing, when Casap was bound over for trial.

She said additional charges resulting from the investigation may emerge. "It continues to be ongoing as (investigators) continue to work through records and things like that," Boese said. "There are so many sources of information out there that they're still sifting through."

Judge Ralph Ramirez presides over the arraignment of Nikita Casap Wednesday, May 7, 2025 in Waukesha County Circuit Court in Waukesha, Wisconsin. Federal authorities believe Casap, a 17-year-old Waukesha boy, killed his mother and stepfather as part of a plot to assassinate President Donald Trump.

Homicide case continues to evolve as evidence emerges

Earlier indications, including from the Waukesha County Sheriff's Office, that the investigation isn't over continue to add to the complexity in a case that has already taken several unusual turns.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For instance, the arraignment hearing in a state court did not address a potential federal case. One such case could arise from the FBI investigation, revealed in a search warrant and affidavit unsealed on April 11, that alleges the homicides were tied to Casap's plot to steal his parents' money to finance an assassination attempt on Trump and destabilize the U.S. government.

Boese told reporters May 7 that her office is not directly coordinating with the FBI. The state will focus on the homicides and federal government will focus on any threats involving the president or U.S. government. "I don't know what the federal (officials) are doing with anything they're investigating," she said.

Details of a death investigation itself were slow in coming, with the sheriff's department first revealing that one body was found in the Cider Hills Drive home Feb. 28, only to confirm two days later that a second body was there, as well. Even then, Casap was charged on March 3 with only with theft, though authorities had publicly stated, both in media releases and in court, that additional charges were expected.

That complaint was replaced by a new complaint filed March 27, in which Casap was charged with nine felony counts: two counts of first-degree intentional homicide, two counts of hiding a corpse, two counts of theft of movable property, two counts of identity theft and a single count of taking and driving a vehicle without the owner's consent.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Holtz and Rifelj declined to make any statements to the media following the arraignment hearing. A status hearing was set for 8:30 a.m. Aug. 18, when a trial date could be scheduled.

Contact reporter Jim Riccioli at james.riccioli@jrn.com.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Casap pleads not guilty during arraignment as homicide case continues
ABU DHABI, May 6 (Xinhua) -- The United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced on Tuesday a successful mediation of a new exchange of captives between Russia and Ukraine, with each side releasing 205 individuals.

According to the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it marks the 15th such exchange facilitated by the UAE, bringing the total number of captives exchanged under its mediation to 4,181.

The successful exchange highlights the trust both parties place in the UAE's diplomatic role in helping resolve the ongoing conflict, said the ministry.

The UAE also reiterated its intention to support all initiatives aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, stressing the importance of mitigating the humanitarian impact of the war, particularly on refugees and captives. 
Go behind the headlines as NewsNations Missing investigates missing person cases from across the country, from cold cases to the latest developing stories. Tune into our latest cases digital show each Friday where we speak to loved ones and examine the case. Subscribe to our newsletter here.

(NewsNation)  A mother of four disappeared just weeks before she was supposed to testify against her husband in a domestic violence case, and her family is trying to hold out hope as authorities say the case is now being considered a homicide.

Nikki Saelee-McCain said she was helping her in-laws with a family emergency in May of 2024 and was never seen again.

Nikki Saelee-McCains family suspicious about her disappearance

Her family, including sister Chloe Saelee, told NewsNation they are frustrated with a lack of answers and suspicious that Saelee-McCains husband had something to do with her disappearance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Officers find missing girl, arrest human trafficking suspect in Los Angeles

My gut feeling is that something bad happened to her, but I try to stay hopeful, Saelee said.

For her siblings, memories of 39-year-old Saelee-McCain include silly moments full of gossip and laughter amid an investigation that has taken a turn for the worse.

Saelee-McCain vanished on May 18, 2024, just weeks before she was scheduled to testify against her husband in a domestic violence case.

The charges stemmed from an incident in December 2023. Saelee remembers being shocked when she saw her sister in the hospital.

I didnt even recognize her, Saelee said. She said basically, I think he tried to kill me.'

Nikki Saelee-McCains domestic violence case

The police report details visible trauma to Saelee-McCains face from a three-hour ordeal in which Saelee-McCain said her husband bound her wrists and ankles and put tape over her mouth.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Missing Wisconsin woman found after more than 60 years

Tyler McCain was charged with four felony counts and pleaded not guilty.

Saelee said he tried to get the charges dropped, but after attempting a reconciliation, Saelee-McCain refused.

She was ready to start new and get her own place and move on with her life, with her and the children, Saelee said.

Nikki Saelee-McCain disappears

On May 17, Saelee-McCain texted saying there was a medical emergency in her husbands family and she was at the ER.

Her last message came just after midnight May 18.

She tells me that she has her mother-in-laws car and that she was going to take it back to her mother-in-laws house, Saelee said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That house was part of the Redding Rancheria, tribal lands connected to the Win-River Casino in Northern California.

Missing teen found under blanket in car during Arizona traffic stop

Volunteers searched surrounding areas, and days later, Saelee-McCains gray Chevy Avalanche was found abandoned in the next county over.

Now her family wonders about those texts.

Was that really her texting me, telling me she was at the hospital? Saelee said. Or was that just somebody who could throw us off, like maybe something did happen to her before?

Nikki Saelee-McCain disappeared in May 2024. (Chloe Saelee) Nikki Saelee-McCains sisters fear her husband was involved in her disappearance. (Chloe Saelee) Nikki Saelee-Mccain disappeared before she could testify against her husband in a domestic violence case. (Chloe Saelee) Nikki Saelee-McCains family is still hoping she will be found. (Chloe Saelee) Volunteers seached the area where Nikki Saelee-McCain was believe to be last. (Chloe Saelee) Nikki Saelee-McCains last message said there was an emergency with her in-laws. (Chloe Saelee)

The Saelee family personally looked for clues among abandoned cars on the Saelee-McCain property.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Then, firefighters were called to the same location weeks later to contain a wildfire allegedly ignited as McCain worked on a vehicle.

Tyler McCains charges dropped

Angry protesters confronted McCain outside the courthouse when he arrived for his hearing, and the trial was delayed.

But ultimately, without Saelee-McCains testimony, the district attorney said she had no choice but to drop the charges.

Tabitha Tuders family describes heartbreak as they wait for answers

We simply couldnt go forward at that time. By dismissing it, it does preserve our ability to refile that case, said Shasta County District Attorney Stephanie Bridgett.

Tyler McCain speaks for the first time

In March, McCain spoke publicly for the first time, joining the Saelee family for a press conference where he spoke about efforts to bring his wife home and explained his silence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I havent been in the public eye and havent done very well with it, McCain said. I apologize to everyone, especially my children, my wifes family as well as mine.

Four days later, local and federal agents executed a search warrant at McCains home.

Nikki McCains case classified as a homicide

The sheriffs office refused NewsNations request for an interview but issued a statement saying that, based on evidence gathered and the fact that nobody has heard from Saelee-McCain since she disappeared, detectives now consider her a victim of homicide.

Bossier City Police search for missing child

The department said it has identified persons of interest but is not releasing the names of those people at this time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite the news, Saelee-McCains family is not giving up on finding her.

I just want her to know that we wont stop looking for her and were going to find her, and we cant wait for her to come home, Saelee 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 NewsNation.
The Scene

MANASSAS, Va.  At a recent Prince William County meeting in Virginia, 71-year-old Elizabeth Martorana described living in a development area for Amazon, Microsoft, and Google data centers: Its like living in hell.

Martoranas retirement community sits within a few miles of more than 20 proposed data center parks under various stages of development, and is adjacent to a proposed AI campus expected to be the largest in the world once operational. Dump trucks crowd the roads, workers level trees, and the skyline is filled with a spaghetti of transmission lines. In the next town over, she said, shes heard that the constant humming from the facilities is driving people crazy. Martorana told Semafor the buildout in her area is the biggest preventable environmental and humanitarian travesty.

In the high-stakes AI race, tech companies are straining to pay the hundreds of billions in capital expenditures and moving mountains to procure the elusive GPUs required to calculate the largest math equations humanity has ever seen. The biggest hurdle, though, may turn out to be the same obstacle that has long stymied the development of everything from housing to public transportation: the neighbors. Complaints revolve around the annoying noise permeating through nearby homes, schools, and parks. And residents just dont want to look at the brightly lit, endlessly long, gray complexes that power products like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini  and they say are erasing the character of their neighborhoods.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In cities like Memphis, Tennessee, and Fayetteville, Georgia, local citizens are fighting to stop companies like xAI, Blackstone, and Equinix from breaking ground, potentially hindering the rapid expansion of compute power that companies need to meet AI demand and increase their models capabilities. These efforts are also colliding with ongoing debates across the country on permitting reform and the NIMBY versus YIMBY battles roiling communities. At the same time, the US is counting on the domestic buildout of data centers to maintain its technological edge against China, which is also racing to expand its AI infrastructure and has fewer regulatory or civic hurdles.

Northern Virginia, where Martorana lives, is where much of the US infrastructure buildout is taking place. It has an existing ecosystem for data centers, an AI-supportive governor, a robust fiber optic network, and available land. But some projects are running up against opposition from locals, with some of them suing the county and data center firms  including Blackstone-owned QTS Realty Trust and Compass Datacenters  over the expansion. They are also voting tech sympathizers out of official positions and protesting nearly every new facility during town hall meetings. Locals are hounding companies to make their existing data centers quieter and better hidden.

The outcry hasnt sent companies packing, but it has slowed the full-steam-ahead approach big tech has benefited from in recent years. Among the biggest setbacks in the state are the $26 billion QTS and Compass project tied up in court, and a $12 billion campus by Culpeper Acquisitions that has been delayed.

Courtesy of Dale Browne

The AI companies say they are trying to be good neighbors. They have made improvements to their facilities, donated to community organizations, sponsored local job training programs, and built parks. Amazon alone has pumped $75 billion into Northern Virginia since 2011, adding $24 billion to the states gross domestic product in that time, according to the company.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We connect and listen to residents and local leaders by taking their feedback and incorporating that input directly into our development and operational processes to improve our data center community presence, Kevin Miller, Amazon Web Services vice president of global data centers, told Semafor.

But so far, those actions havent appeased Martorana or many others.

In one case, residents of a Manassas neighborhood called Great Oak complained about the constant buzzing coming from four nearby Amazon data center buildings  and specifically, from the 400 fans across their roofs that cool the servers inside, according to Dale Browne, who led the neighborhoods homeowners association at that time. Amazon replaced the fans in 2023, Browne said, costing roughly $40 million by his calculations. (Amazon wouldnt confirm the details.)

Our engineers designed and implemented solutions that residents confirm have reduced sound levels, and those reductions have been validated by independent acoustic experts, Miller said.

A map showing data center campuses in Great Oak, Manassas.

The updates reduced the tech campus noise output but created a new problem that has residents grumbling: The changes lowered the pitch of the sound, which now sends picture frames and dishes rattling in nearby homes, Browne said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He and others are now working to change the countys noise ordinance so Amazon is no longer in compliance and must take further action. Great Oak was a wonderful place, said Browne, who has lived in the neighborhood for 31 years. Its being destroyed.

Know More

In Loudoun County, 45 miles from the nations capital, operational data centers and those in development span roughly 50 million square feet  about 1,150 acres. Nearby Prince William County, known for its Civil War history and for the Marine base in Quantico, doesnt publicize an official count. Bill Wright, who lives in a neighborhood adjacent to a proposed data center campus, estimates it has 10 million square feet of operational data centers and 90 million more square feet planned based on public property documents.

A chart showing the square footage of data center floor space in Loudoun County, Va.

Residents who spoke with Semafor, about half of whom are retirees, werent ideologically opposed to data centers  only the issues they cause when theyre placed so close to homes and schools.

We bought [our home] near farmland, and what was once scenic is now completely surrounded by data centers, said Ben Keethler, who lives in Ashburn, Virginia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Across Northern Virginia, existing facilities  and sites that have been proposed or approved for construction  border schools, parks, cemeteries, homes, and Manassas National Battlefield Park, where two Civil War battles occurred.

A map showing planned and operational data center campuses in Prince William County, Va.

Prince William County has a number of campuses in development that shouldnt have been approved, according to Deshundra Jefferson, chair of the countys board of supervisors. Data centers had a lot of leeway under the previous chairperson, she told Semafor.

In seven years, the countys board has never rejected a data center application. While those years include Jeffersons administration, she said her board has taken a stricter approach to making sure facilities arent too close to residential areas. That put a stop to a number of bad applications, she said. And now that were talking about sensible guardrails, a number of them are balking at it.

Ann Wheeler, who preceded Jefferson as chairperson, disputed the leeway and said that if the data centers hadnt been approved, in many locations, townhomes or shopping centers wouldve been built instead. And the tax revenue brought in by the AI buildout  expected to be $364 million next year  has helped fund schools, social services, a new mental health center, roads, and parks. Data centers also support 74,000 jobs in the state, most of which are in construction.

Condos at Village Place Condominiums in Gainesville costing $400,000. Rachyl Jones/Semafor.

Power Struggle

While the centers noise and locations are the primary complaints from residents now, tomorrows concerns revolve around energy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The growing footprint of data centers in Northern Virginia means utility companies must expand capacity to serve them at a cost that will take decades to recover, according to a report by a nonpartisan state advisory agency. While data centers are currently paying their fair share of energy costs, consumers can expect higher bills in the future, the report said  both because of increased energy prices and because theyll be shouldering the expense of building new infrastructure.

By 2040, a Virginia household consuming an average amount of energy could pay an extra $400 a year, according to the report. However, Loudoun County, a data center-heavy area, says the revenue from its facilities has helped lower residents property taxes. As a result, some households may see their tax benefits offset  or even outweigh  their increased energy costs.

Where we require specific infrastructure to meet our needs (such as new substations), we work to make sure that were covering those costs and that they arent being passed on to other ratepayers, Amazons Miller said.

Dominion Energy, which serves the area, has proposed to regulators raising energy rates for data centers more sharply than residential rates. If approved, large customers  which include data centers  would see an 18.5% price hike by Jan. 2027, compared to residents 15% increase. The company is also trying to require data centers to sign 14-year agreements to pay for a set amount of power, even if they use less. That will protect residential customers from paying for costs that belong to large customers, spokesperson Aaron Ruby told Semafor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Whether the state can actually build enough energy infrastructure is another question. Meeting even half of the demand spurred by data centers over the next 10 years will be difficult, even with growth in renewable and nuclear power, the state report found.

Dominion has a plan to produce 27 gigawatts of new power in the next 15 years  more than double what it generates today, Ruby said. Its a realistic and achievable plan, and were already well on our way, he said.

Step Back

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin has prioritized the buildout of data centers in the state. We should continue to be the data center capital of the world and make sure Richmond is doing what is necessary to support that goal, Youngkin said during his State of the Commonwealth address earlier this year. And in Richmond, tech companies and Dominion are among the strongest lobbying forces.

A dozen key players have hired 84 lobbyists in the state, 25 of whom work for Dominion, according to The Virginia Public Access Project (VPAP), a nonprofit that tracks campaign donations and lobbying efforts. Dominion routinely spends some of the most on lobbying in the state, and two years ago shelled out an unusually high $4 million, more than 10 times the amount of the next-highest spender.

Rachyls view

Drive through certain parts of Northern Virginia, and youll see the data centers are indeed sprawling. I stayed in Virginia for three days to report this story, but I hardly noticed the low buzzing of facilities near me, including from an Amazon data center campus less than a mile away from my hotel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Locals are putting up a good fight  and the concessions theyve gotten from tech companies have likely made small but meaningful improvements in their neighborhoods. And efforts like theirs epitomize what has become one of the Democratic Partys central internal fights now, over an abundance agenda that would reshape decades of environmental protections and local power. But between pro-tech Republicans control of Virginia and the US, a shifting Democratic debate over local autonomy, and the financial power of the worlds biggest companies, the anti-data center locals appear to be losing more battles than theyre winning.

The lobbyists working against community organizations have been a David and Goliath struggle, said Josh Thomas, a delegate representing Gainesville, a town in Prince William County.

Energy and tech firms are also shoveling cash at the delegates who will have a say in their futures in Virginia. Since 2021, Dominion has donated $25 million to local campaigns, committees, and PACs, including $6.4 million in the most recent election cycle, according to VPAP.

Its been a tough environment, said Jefferson, the Prince William County official. There were a number of proposed bills that would have reined in data centers, and they were either rejected or watered down.

Room for Disagreement

Resistance appears to be spreading, as national media covers the Virginians stories and as the anti-data center whisper network grows. Browne said he has been contacted by people around the country  in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio, and in Peculiar, Missouri, for example  who are weighing letting data centers expand in their communities and want to hear his experience.

In August of last year, at the request of Peculiar locals, Browne posted in a city Facebook group about the noise problems in Great Oak. Two months later, Peculiar council members unanimously blocked a $1.5 billion data center bid by Diode Ventures.
Russia's unilateral ceasefire during Victory Day celebrations remains in place, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on May 7, according to state-owned TASS.

Peskov confirmed that "all instructions have been given," and there are "no new instructions." The so-called "humanitarian" truce will run from midnight on May 8 to midnight on May 11.

The Kremlin announced the measure on April 28, claiming all military actions would halt during that period and urging Ukraine to "follow this example."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed the proposal as a "theatrical performance" designed to reduce Russia's international isolation and secure favorable conditions for Moscow's Victory Day events on May 9.

And experts who spoke to the Kyiv Independent said Moscow's unilateral declaration is simply not how ceasefires are conducted.

"Ceasefires have to be negotiated so both sides agree on terms otherwise neither is bound by them," retired Australian Army Major-General Mick Ryan told the Kyiv Independent, adding the Kremlin's truce lacked "clear terms" as well as any "monitoring arrangements."

For a third consecutive day ahead of the parade, the Kremlin reported downing Ukrainian drones near Moscow, disrupting regional air traffic and forcing mass flight delays and diversions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mobile Internet restrictions were also enforced in Moscow and several Russian regions from May 710 as foreign officials visit the country.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to visit Russia from May 710 to discuss Ukraine, Russia-U.S. relations, and energy cooperation with Putin and attend the parade.

Other expected guests include Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, though Fico's attendance remains uncertain due to illness.

At least 29 world leaders and military personnel from 13 countries are expected at the parade.

The Kremlin uses the annual Victory Day parade to showcase its military power and invoke Soviet World War II victories to justify its aggression against Ukraine.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kyiv has previously demonstrated it can strike Moscow with drones, prompting Russian President Vladimir Putin to announce the truce last month.

Ukraine accepted a U.S.-proposed full 30-day ceasefire more than 50 days ago, but Moscow rejected the offer, demanding a halt to Western military aid to Ukraine.

Read also: Without mentioning his name, Biden calls Trumps pressure on Ukraine modern-day appeasement towards Russia

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The conclave to elect a new pope, the church's 267th, began on Wednesday, May 7

Cardinals only voted one time on the first day, with ballots being counted that evening

Although some historical conclaves have lasted years, in recent years, they've lasted just days

It's official: a new pope has not been elected on the first day of the papal conclave.

Black smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel on the evening of Wednesday, May 7, signaling to onlookers that the voting cardinals inside have not come to a two-thirds consensus about who will succeed Pope Francis. This comes roughly two weeks after the late pontiff died at age 88.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The ballots were cast just hours after the conclave began  and although there was only one vote on day one, moving forward, cardinals will be able vote twice in the morning and twice in the afternoon, according to the Vatican.

Related: Conclave to Pick New Pope 'Will Be Short,' Predicts Cardinal: 'I Think There Is a Consensus'

The conclave is the historically secretive process in which cardinals under the age of 80 vote to select the new pope  and they'll stay stay sequestered inside the Sistine Chapel until a new pope has been chosen. When the 267th pope is chosen, white smoke will be sent through the chapel's chimney, but until then, black smoke will signal the opposite.

AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia Black smoke rises from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday, May 7 Black smoke rises from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday, May 7

Of the 252 cardinals at the time of the late pontiff's death, only 135 are eligible to vote in the conclave, according to the Vatican  and two have said they are unable to attend for health reasons, which is why there are only 133 cardinals voting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cardinals over the age of 80 will often still participate in the pre-conclave discussions, called general congregations, in which issues within the church are raised.

Stefano Spaziani/Europa Press via Getty Cardinals sat the Basilica of St. Peter. Cardinals sat the Basilica of St. Peter.

The process has been made famous by the 2024 film Conclave starring Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci.

Francis, himself the first Latin American pope in history and the first non-European pope since the eighth century, strived to diversify the College of Cardinals during his papacy. He appointed many cardinals from Africa, South America and Asia, the latter of which now represents 17% of the College  second only to Europe, NPR reported.

Related: Could an American Be the Next Pope? Here's Who Experts Say Might be the Top Contenders

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gregg Gassman, a librarian who hosts the Popeular History podcast, told the outlet this upcoming cardinal gathering will be "the least European conclave in history."

Stefano Spaziani/Europa Press via Getty Appointment of cardinals. Appointment of cardinals.

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.



Some experts have speculated that the late pope's successor may share in his more progressive ideals for the church, but American Catholic theologian Bill Cavanaugh previously told PEOPLE "anything can happen."

"It's not like there's a clear front-runner right now. There's a lot of speculation," said Cavanaugh, also a professor of Catholic studies at DePaul Univeristy. "Will it be back to another European pope, or will it be another pope from the 'Global South,' from Asia, from Africa? We just don't know."



Read the original article on People
Less than 10 months after receiving a mammoth 22 per cent pay rise, junior doctors are once again voting on strikes.

The repeated cycle of walkouts and pay rises has already stretched public patience thin; balloting on a possible strike prior to any actual pay offer being made is unlikely to improve matters. Nor, indeed, is the doctors branding of the Supreme Court ruling that trans women are not legally women scientifically illiterate and biologically nonsensical.

While doctors may be happy to flout public opinion, however, it is difficult to disagree with Health Secretary Wes Streetings view that this ballot is premature. Clearly, space should be given to negotiations to play out.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For his part, Mr Streeting may be regretting the decision to grant doctors a pay rise last year without making it contingent on the sweeping reforms necessary to lift NHS productivity.

The repeated strikes and issues with remuneration are a symptom of the wider failings of a centralised healthcare system.

Productivity in the health service, by some measures, remains below its 2019 levels, and it is difficult to justify pay rises when output is stagnant.

Moreover, the dominant position of the NHS in the labour market for healthcare workers means that there are few outside alternatives for doctors to turn to beyond emigration, breeding understandable frustration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Further strikes seeking unaffordable pay rises, however, will not resolve this problem, and will only erode public support and sympathy. If the junior doctors want a more lasting solution, they may wish to take to the pickets and call for the reform of the NHS along Australian or Dutch lines.

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.
North Carolina state auditor Dave Boliek speaks to lawmakers about a bill that would give his office a new team to examine state spending and jobs on April 2, 2025. (Photo: Galen Bacharier/NC Newsline)

If youre like the vast majority of North Carolina voters, the decision you made last November in the auditors race was pretty low on your list of priority contests.

Ah, but for Republican lawmakers looking for ways to seize more powers from Gov. Josh Stein, newly elected Republican auditor Dave Boliek has turned out to be a convenient tool. Thanks to a bill rammed through during a lame duck session, Boliek has been given all sorts of new powers that have absolutely nothing to do with the auditors traditional role  including bizarrely enough, appointing the state Board of Elections.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And last week Boliek followed marching orders from GOP leaders by appointing a pair of hard right ideologues to the Board.

The bottom line: It makes no more sense to place the auditor  states accountant  in charge of elections than giving the duty to the agriculture commissioner  especially when voters had no inkling of the shift when they cast their ballots. Unfortunately, for Republican lawmakers bent on shamelessly seizing power at every turn, logic and the will of voters is of little interest.

For NC Newsline, Im Rob Schofield.
Lhapa Dondrup takes photos in the Barkhor Street in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, April 29, 2025. Lhapa Dondrup, a 24-year-old man born in Lhasa, has been suffering from osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), commonly known as brittle bone disease, since childhood. Now as an adult, he stands under one meter tall and relies on crutches and electric wheelchair for mobility. Despite these challenges, Lhapa harbors a dream of becoming a photographer.

In 2021, he joined a cultural media company founded by individuals with physical disabilities, taking on roles in photography and video editing. Through the work, he began earning a living while documenting the lives and stories of those around him. Photography has not only empowered him to achieve independence but also helped him forge new friendships. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan)

Lhapa Dondrup is pictured in the Barkhor Street in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, April 29, 2025. Lhapa Dondrup, a 24-year-old man born in Lhasa, has been suffering from osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), commonly known as brittle bone disease, since childhood. Now as an adult, he stands under one meter tall and relies on crutches and electric wheelchair for mobility. Despite these challenges, Lhapa harbors a dream of becoming a photographer.

In 2021, he joined a cultural media company founded by individuals with physical disabilities, taking on roles in photography and video editing. Through the work, he began earning a living while documenting the lives and stories of those around him. Photography has not only empowered him to achieve independence but also helped him forge new friendships. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan)

This undated photo taken by Lhapa Dondrup shows a rider demonstrating his skills at a racecourse in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. Lhapa Dondrup, a 24-year-old man born in Lhasa, has been suffering from osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), commonly known as brittle bone disease, since childhood. Now as an adult, he stands under one meter tall and relies on crutches and electric wheelchair for mobility. Despite these challenges, Lhapa harbors a dream of becoming a photographer.

In 2021, he joined a cultural media company founded by individuals with physical disabilities, taking on roles in photography and video editing. Through the work, he began earning a living while documenting the lives and stories of those around him. Photography has not only empowered him to achieve independence but also helped him forge new friendships. (Photo by Lhapa Dondrup/Xinhua)

Lhapa Dondrup takes photos of a product at the company in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, May 5, 2025. Lhapa Dondrup, a 24-year-old man born in Lhasa, has been suffering from osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), commonly known as brittle bone disease, since childhood. Now as an adult, he stands under one meter tall and relies on crutches and electric wheelchair for mobility. Despite these challenges, Lhapa harbors a dream of becoming a photographer.

In 2021, he joined a cultural media company founded by individuals with physical disabilities, taking on roles in photography and video editing. Through the work, he began earning a living while documenting the lives and stories of those around him. Photography has not only empowered him to achieve independence but also helped him forge new friendships. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

This undated photo taken by Lhapa Dondrup shows a woman walking amid snow in the Barkhor Street in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. Lhapa Dondrup, a 24-year-old man born in Lhasa, has been suffering from osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), commonly known as brittle bone disease, since childhood. Now as an adult, he stands under one meter tall and relies on crutches and electric wheelchair for mobility. Despite these challenges, Lhapa harbors a dream of becoming a photographer.

In 2021, he joined a cultural media company founded by individuals with physical disabilities, taking on roles in photography and video editing. Through the work, he began earning a living while documenting the lives and stories of those around him. Photography has not only empowered him to achieve independence but also helped him forge new friendships. (Photo by Lhapa Dondrup/Xinhua)

Lhapa Dondrup takes photos in the Barkhor Street in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, April 29, 2025. Lhapa Dondrup, a 24-year-old man born in Lhasa, has been suffering from osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), commonly known as brittle bone disease, since childhood. Now as an adult, he stands under one meter tall and relies on crutches and electric wheelchair for mobility. Despite these challenges, Lhapa harbors a dream of becoming a photographer.

In 2021, he joined a cultural media company founded by individuals with physical disabilities, taking on roles in photography and video editing. Through the work, he began earning a living while documenting the lives and stories of those around him. Photography has not only empowered him to achieve independence but also helped him forge new friendships. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan)

Lhapa Dondrup greets a friend while taking photos in the Barkhor Street in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, April 29, 2025. Lhapa Dondrup, a 24-year-old man born in Lhasa, has been suffering from osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), commonly known as brittle bone disease, since childhood. Now as an adult, he stands under one meter tall and relies on crutches and electric wheelchair for mobility. Despite these challenges, Lhapa harbors a dream of becoming a photographer.

In 2021, he joined a cultural media company founded by individuals with physical disabilities, taking on roles in photography and video editing. Through the work, he began earning a living while documenting the lives and stories of those around him. Photography has not only empowered him to achieve independence but also helped him forge new friendships. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan)

Lhapa Dondrup takes photos of a product at the company in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, May 5, 2025. Lhapa Dondrup, a 24-year-old man born in Lhasa, has been suffering from osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), commonly known as brittle bone disease, since childhood. Now as an adult, he stands under one meter tall and relies on crutches and electric wheelchair for mobility. Despite these challenges, Lhapa harbors a dream of becoming a photographer.

In 2021, he joined a cultural media company founded by individuals with physical disabilities, taking on roles in photography and video editing. Through the work, he began earning a living while documenting the lives and stories of those around him. Photography has not only empowered him to achieve independence but also helped him forge new friendships. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

Lhapa Dondrup takes photos of the Zhanian, a traditional Tibetan stringed instrument, at the company in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, May 6, 2025. Lhapa Dondrup, a 24-year-old man born in Lhasa, has been suffering from osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), commonly known as brittle bone disease, since childhood. Now as an adult, he stands under one meter tall and relies on crutches and electric wheelchair for mobility. Despite these challenges, Lhapa harbors a dream of becoming a photographer.

In 2021, he joined a cultural media company founded by individuals with physical disabilities, taking on roles in photography and video editing. Through the work, he began earning a living while documenting the lives and stories of those around him. Photography has not only empowered him to achieve independence but also helped him forge new friendships. (Xinhua/Tenzing Nima Qadhup)

Lhapa Dondrup reads a book about photography in the company dormitory in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, May 5, 2025. Lhapa Dondrup, a 24-year-old man born in Lhasa, has been suffering from osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), commonly known as brittle bone disease, since childhood. Now as an adult, he stands under one meter tall and relies on crutches and electric wheelchair for mobility. Despite these challenges, Lhapa harbors a dream of becoming a photographer.

In 2021, he joined a cultural media company founded by individuals with physical disabilities, taking on roles in photography and video editing. Through the work, he began earning a living while documenting the lives and stories of those around him. Photography has not only empowered him to achieve independence but also helped him forge new friendships. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

Lhapa Dondrup records a colleague playing the Zhanian, a traditional Tibetan stringed instrument, with a camera at the company in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, May 6, 2025. Lhapa Dondrup, a 24-year-old man born in Lhasa, has been suffering from osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), commonly known as brittle bone disease, since childhood. Now as an adult, he stands under one meter tall and relies on crutches and electric wheelchair for mobility. Despite these challenges, Lhapa harbors a dream of becoming a photographer.

In 2021, he joined a cultural media company founded by individuals with physical disabilities, taking on roles in photography and video editing. Through the work, he began earning a living while documenting the lives and stories of those around him. Photography has not only empowered him to achieve independence but also helped him forge new friendships. (Xinhua/Tenzing Nima Qadhup)

Lhapa Dondrup uploads product information to the internet at the company in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, May 5, 2025. Lhapa Dondrup, a 24-year-old man born in Lhasa, has been suffering from osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), commonly known as brittle bone disease, since childhood. Now as an adult, he stands under one meter tall and relies on crutches and electric wheelchair for mobility. Despite these challenges, Lhapa harbors a dream of becoming a photographer.

In 2021, he joined a cultural media company founded by individuals with physical disabilities, taking on roles in photography and video editing. Through the work, he began earning a living while documenting the lives and stories of those around him. Photography has not only empowered him to achieve independence but also helped him forge new friendships. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

Lhapa Dondrup is pictured at the entrance to the company in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, May 5, 2025. Lhapa Dondrup, a 24-year-old man born in Lhasa, has been suffering from osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), commonly known as brittle bone disease, since childhood. Now as an adult, he stands under one meter tall and relies on crutches and electric wheelchair for mobility. Despite these challenges, Lhapa harbors a dream of becoming a photographer.

In 2021, he joined a cultural media company founded by individuals with physical disabilities, taking on roles in photography and video editing. Through the work, he began earning a living while documenting the lives and stories of those around him. Photography has not only empowered him to achieve independence but also helped him forge new friendships. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

Lhapa Dondrup discusses the product shooting plan with a colleague at the company in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, May 5, 2025. Lhapa Dondrup, a 24-year-old man born in Lhasa, has been suffering from osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), commonly known as brittle bone disease, since childhood. Now as an adult, he stands under one meter tall and relies on crutches and electric wheelchair for mobility. Despite these challenges, Lhapa harbors a dream of becoming a photographer.

In 2021, he joined a cultural media company founded by individuals with physical disabilities, taking on roles in photography and video editing. Through the work, he began earning a living while documenting the lives and stories of those around him. Photography has not only empowered him to achieve independence but also helped him forge new friendships. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem defended President Trumps immigration policies and plans for deep cuts at her agency in her first appearance before lawmakers since being confirmed.

Noem, appearing before a subcommittee of the House Appropriations Committee, was grilled by House Democrats over planned cuts for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).

Trumps skinny budget proposes $646 million in cuts to FEMA it argues fund equity in disaster response and also proposes shuttering the disinformation offices and programs at CISA.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The president has indicated he wants to eliminate FEMA as it exists today, and to have states have more control over their emergency management response. He wants to empower local governments and support them and how they respond to their people, Noem said amid questioning from lawmakers.

But Democrats defended FEMA over what it called baseless attacks by the GOP.

Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.), the top Democrat on the committee, said dismantling the agency would mean the federal government is abdicating its commitment to the American people. She also raised concerns about grant funding being withheld for political reasons and leaving people stranded due to political discord.

With all due respect, where is the evidence of the failure of FEMA, DeLauro said during an exchange with Noem.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It would appear that the administration overall  theyre looking at dismantling the federal government, she added. The states will never have the amount of money, because the federal government isnt going to pass that money to the states to be able to deal with what happens.

Noem said the agency still has unpaid claims from Hurricane Katrina and other disasters stretching back eight years or more.

She also nodded to the case of a FEMA supervisor who told employees not to go to houses with Trump signs who was later fired, saying the agency was picking winners and losers. But DeLauro shot back that the instance was limited to one employee and was not FEMA policy.

Rep. Ed Case (D-Hawaii) called actions at FEMA another example of mis-budgeting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You, first of all, collectively, have directed very incorrect and outright mean criticism at FEMA, which is just undeserved by FEMA. And its time to put the political campaign behind us and acknowledge that FEMA is doing a good job, he said.

We dont need this and, further, we certainly need to fund them adequately.

He also slammed 20 percent cuts to CISA.

Your budget also ignores and even attacks other critical functions of [the Department of Homeland Security], the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, or CISA, which I think we would all agree is critical to direct national defense, but also civilian infrastructure, which is the most exposed right now, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Immigration policy will largely be handled through the House Judiciary Committees reconciliation bill, but under questioning from Republicans, Noem defended some $45 billion in the budget for border wall construction.

Noem said the wall wont just be steel structures but will also be buoys across rivers and concertina wire as well as additional cameras in places where fencing and other structures are not possible.

So the diversity of what happens is incredibly important, he said. Were going to continue to move forward with putting up that infrastructure because it does slow down traffic. It sends a message.

Noem also said that even with the change in leadership, the department has had some issues deporting people as swiftly as she would like to.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There are some countries that are still refusing to take their own citizens, and I would reiterate that every single country has a responsibility to take their citizens back, Noem said without specifying.

Many of the countries, today, even as they are working with us, arent taking their citizens home very quickly. They may limit us to one or two planes a week.

Noem also came under fire from Democrats for an ad campaign thanking Trump for closing the border, with the contracts for producing the ads swiftly awarded to GOP firms associated with former Trump staffers.

This is a $200 million ad campaign, taking the money from [Customs and Border Protection] and [U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services] to promote a political advantage. Its really kind of the height of arrogance, DeLauro said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Youre looking for more money from us to do that, but youre going to take a portion of the money that we have given you and youre going to spend it on political advertising, she added.

I mean, that really is  in Yiddish, the word is chutzpah.

Noem said the contracts were awarded following guidelines and defended the need for the messaging.

President Trump was very clear from the very beginning that he recognized that the fake news in this country was not going to tell the truth of what the work had been done at the border to secure this country, she said.

And these ads arent only playing in the United States. Theyre playing in other countries where we had the largest invasion coming into this country from.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
May 6 (UPI) -- Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced Tuesday night that she will ask federal prosecutors to seek the death penalty against two Mexican nationals accused of human smuggling resulting in the deaths of at least three migrants.

According to authorities, three migrants were killed Monday when a boat carrying them and 13 others overturned off the California coast. Seven of the passengers were still missing when Coast Guard officials called off the search Monday night.

Federal prosecutors on Tuesday charged five people in connection to the human smuggling operation, including Mexican nationals Jesus Ivan Rodriguez-Leyva, 36, and Julio Cesar Zuniga-Luna, 30. The pair, who were seemingly among those on the vessel, were arrested Monday night.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Noem announced her request to the Justice Department for the accused to face the death penalty if convicted in a statement, saying she will also formally ask Attorney General Pam Bondi for the pair to be swiftly prosecuted.

"The Department of Homeland Security will not tolerate this level of criminal depravity or reckless disregard for human life," she said. "We will continue to work with our federal partners to ensure justice is served and our laws upheld."

Coast Guard authorities said in a statement that they received word of the overturned panga skiff around 6:30 a.m. EDT Monday off Del Mar Beach. Three people were found deceased and four others were located in need of medical attention. A search was launched for seven others sill missing that was called off that night.

Among the deceased was a 14-year-old Indian boy. His 10-year-old sister is among those still unaccounted for.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rodriguez-Leyva and Zuniga-Luna were detained by authorities on Del Mar Beach. Three others in vehicles believed to be connected to the smuggling event were later detained.

Update: USCG continues to search for 7 missing people involved in an overturned vessel incident near Del Mar, CA this morning. The USCG is requesting the public notify the USCG at 800-854-9834 if they have any relevant information on the identities of the 7 missing people. pic.twitter.com/TaXDgjsQS7 USCGNorCal (@USCGNorCal) May 5, 2025

Federal prosecutors charged Rodriguez-Leyva and Zuniga-Luna with bringing in aliens resulting in death, which carries a maximum penalty of death or life in prison. They have also been charged with bringing in aliens for financial gain, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years behind bars.

"This tragedy is a stark reminder of the inhumanity and lethal danger inherent to human smuggling at sea," Noem said. "Their deaths were not only avoidable but were also the direct result of the greed and indifference of smugglers who exploited them."

There have been 16 federal executions since the reinstatement of the federal death penalty in 1988. Thirteen of those executions occurred during the final six months of the first Trump administration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

President Joe Biden commuted the death sentences of 37 of the 40 federal death row inmates in the days before handing over the White House to President Donald Trump, who on his first day of his second term issued an executive order instructing his Justice Department to "pursue the death penalty for all crimes of a severity demanding its use," including "a capital crime committed by an illegal alien present in this country."

Noem's request comes as the Trump administration continues its immigration crackdown, attracting criticism for allegedly ignoring due rights by sending hundreds of alleged non-citizen gang members to a mega prison in El Salvador among seeking to deport other immigrants.

The Trump administration has boasted that Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have made tens of thousands of immigration-related arrests in the name of "Making America Safe Again."
In the final stretch of the Texas legislative session, lawmakers are racing to advance several bills that would impose new voting requirements on Texas voters. On paper, these bills sound like they are about election security; but in practice, theyre simply red tape that threatens to block millions of law-abiding Texans from casting a ballot.

Senate Bill 16, which has passed the Senate, and the companion HB 5337 working its way through the Texas House, would create a confusing two-tiered voter registration system for Texas voters. All eligible Texas voters  both new registrants and existing voters  would have to show a passport or birth certificate, or prove theyve previously shown one of these documents to the state Department of Public Safety, to remain on the voting rolls. Even long-time registered voters would be forced to produce this new paperwork  or be barred from voting in state and local races for offices such as school board, mayor, city council, governor, and even for president.

Huston-Tillotson University student Myles Wilson, left, registers to vote with the help of volunteer Cliffton Styles, right, at a voter registration drive last September. Lawmakers are considering bills that would require all voters to present proof of citizenship, such as their birth certificate or passport.

These documents can be expensive or hard to track down. For many Texans, especially rural and older voters, these records can be difficult to obtain. Research shows that only roughly half of voting-eligible Texans have a passport, and Texans in rural counties are even less likely to have one.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In addition, many Texans have changed their names since birth due to marriage or other reasons, so their current names may not match the one on their birth certificates. An estimated 5.6 million women living in Texas couldnt use their birth certificates alone to prove their citizenship to vote because they changed their names when they got married.

Thats, of course, if they can find their birth certificate  or if the rural hospital where they were born issued them (many hospitals did not routinely issue them until the 1930s or '40s).

In other words, these bills would strip many eligible voters of their freedom to vote  not because they arent citizens, but because they cant produce the right paperwork.

Unfortunately, we at Secure Democracy USA have seen this movie before. These bills copy a failed approach in Arizona, where this complex voter registration system has led to confusion at the polls, administrative chaos and lawsuits. Keep in mind that Arizona has just 15 counties. Texas has 254. Imagine taking Arizona's chaotic experience and multiplying it by 17 across Texas  along with the cost to taxpayers to implement, enforce and defend these laws in court.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And when Kansas had a law similar to the one proposed in Texas, one in eight citizen registrants was blocked from voting for more than three years. Fully 31,000 eligible citizens were blocked from voting in Kansas, which has less than one-tenth the population of Texas. The states highest ranking election official, Republican Secretary of State Scott Schwab, now says other states should not make the same mistake by passing these types of laws.

Lawmakers advocating for these bills suggest these changes are necessary to prevent noncitizens from voting, but that dog dont hunt. First, noncitizens voting is exceedingly rare. And second, Texas already has some of the toughest laws on the books to ensure only U.S. citizens can register and vote. Texas election officials regularly check the states voter rolls to ensure that noncitizens are not registered to vote. Its why Texas leads the way when it comes to safeguards and checks against noncitizen voting.

Most importantly, Texans value their freedoms. More bureaucratic red tape is the last thing they want. SB 16 or HB 5337 would surely block tens of thousands of eligible Texas citizens from voting  and thats messing with too many Texans.

Daniel Griffith is the senior director of policy for Secure Democracy USA, a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization building stronger elections, state by state.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Don't make voting harder for millions of Texas citizens | Opinion
The third patient of Elon Musk's brain computer interface company Neuralink is using the billionaire's foul-mouthed AI chatbot Grok to speed up communication.

The patient, Bradford Smith, who has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and is nonverbal as a result, is using the chatbot to draft responses on Musk's social media platform X.

"I am typing this with my brain," Smith tweeted late last month. "It is my primary communication. Ask me anything! I will answer at least all verified users!"

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Thank you, Elon Musk!" the tweet reads.

As MIT Technology Review points out, the strategy could come with some downsides, blurring the line between what Smith intends to say and what Grok suggests. On one hand, the tech could greatly facilitate his ability to express himself. On the other hand, generative AI could be robbing him of a degree of authenticity by putting words in his mouth.

"There is a trade-off between speed and accuracy," University of Washington neurologist Eran Klein told the publication. "The promise of brain-computer interface is that if you can combine it with AI, it can be much faster."

Case in point, while replying to X user Adrian Dittmann  long suspected to be a Musk sock puppet  Smith used several em-dashes in his reply, a symbol frequently used by AI chatbots.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Hey Adrian, its Brad  typing this straight from my brain! It feels wild, like Im a cyborg from a sci-fi movie, moving a cursor just by thinking about it," Smith's tweet reads. "At first, it was a struggle  my cursor acted like a drunk mouse, barely hitting targets, but after weeks of training with imagined hand and jaw movements, it clicked, almost like riding a bike."

Perhaps unsurprisingly, generative AI did indeed play a role.

"I asked Grok to use that text to give full answers to the questions," Smith told MIT Tech. "I am responsible for the content, but I used AI to draft."

However, he stopped short of elaborating on the ethical quandary of having a potentially hallucinating AI chatbot put words in his mouth.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Murkying matters even further is Musk's position as being in control of Neuralink, Grok maker xAI, and X-formerly-Twitter. In other words, could the billionaire be influencing Smith's answers? The fact that Smith is nonverbal makes it a difficult line to draw.

Nonetheless, the small chip implanted in Smith's head has given him an immense sense of personal freedom. Smith has even picked up sharing content on YouTube. He has uploaded videos he edits on his MacBook Pro by controlling the cursor with his thoughts.

"I am making this video using the brain computer interface to control the mouse on my MacBook Pro," his AI-generated and astonishingly natural-sounding voice said in a video titled "Elon Musk makes ALS TALK AGAIN," uploaded late last month. "This is the first video edited with the Neurolink and maybe the first edited with a BCI."

"This is my old voice narrating this video cloned by AI from recordings before I lost my voice," he added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The "voice clone" was created with the help of startup ElevenLabs, which has become an industry standard for those suffering from ALS, and can read out his written words aloud.

But by relying on tools like Grok and OpenAI's ChatGPT, Smith's ability to speak again raises some fascinating questions about true authorship and freedom of self-expression for those who lost their voice.

And Smith was willing to admit that sometimes, the ideas of what to say didn't come directly from him.

"My friend asked me for ideas for his girlfriend who loves horses," he told MIT Tech. "I chose the option that told him in my voice to get her a bouquet of carrots. What a creative and funny idea."

More on Neuralink: Brain Implant Companies Apparently Have an Extremely Dirty Secret
WASHINGTON (WAVY)  A five-day nationwide FBI initiative coordinated with all 55 FBI field offices to track down child sex predators.

The FBI Norfolk Field Office arrested three people as part of Operation Restore Justice.

Among them is a suspect from Williamsburg, who was arrested after he allegedly threatened to sexually abuse a police officers young family member. The FBI says the suspect also sent obscene images of the sexual abuse of children.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Another Norfolk case involves an illegal immigrant from Mexico accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex.

Child sexual exploitation cases are among the most disturbing the FBI works, said FBI Norfolk Acting Special Agent in Charge, Patrick OBrien. Its why the work that we do in this field is so impactful. Operation Restore Justice showcases the commitment we have to stopping and holding accountable anyone who engages in sexual exploitation of children, as well as the threat of exploitation.

The Department of Justice announced the results of the coordinated effort on May 7. Last week alone, the FBI arrested 205 people and rescued 115 children across the country as part of Operation Restore Justice.

The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims  especially child victims  and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us, said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some of the suspects arrested in this operation included people in positions of public trust, such as law enforcement, members of the military and teachers.

In Minneapolis, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for producing sexual abuse material of a young child while wearing his uniforms.

In Washington, D.C., a former MPD Police Officer previously convicted for sex trafficking was again arrested for doing the same thing.

In Louisville, Kentucky, two teachers were charged in separate incidents involving alleged inappropriate communication and behavior with students.

The crimes investigated by the FBI include the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hundreds of special agents, intel analysts and other FBI personnel were involved in bringing the offenders to justice.

While the Bureau works relentlessly to investigate these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of prevention, community education and the FBIs never-ending pursuit of criminals who exploit our children, the FBI said in a news release.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

The FBI partners with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org. In further partnership and collaboration with NCMEC, the FBI launched the Endangered Child Alert Program (ECAP) in 2004 to identify individuals involved in the sexual abuse of children and the production of child sexual abuse material. To date, ECAP has identified 36 individuals.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The FBI urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspect crime against a child to 911 and local law enforcement immediately, as well as the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), online at tips.fbi.gov or by contacting your local FBI field 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 WAVY.com.
NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY)  A committee charged with coming up with a plan to close and consolidate Norfolk Public Schools held its first meeting last week.

By the end of June, the group is to submit an actionable, city-wide plan that will allow the school division to shift toward having newer and fewer schools.

While the plan to start the School Boards Educational and Facilities Planning Advisory Committee was formed earlier this year, the initiative took on new urgency when Norfolk City Council passed a resolution demanding the school division submit a plan by Aug. 1 to close and consolidate 10 schools in five years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Norfolk council calls for School Board to close and consolidate 10 schools

However some school board members dont want the City Councils directive to guide their process.

We do need to take action, but it cannot be fast, because we do have children and families and teachers and staff that their livelihoods on the line, board member Jason Inge said at a recent meeting. This will reshape how Norfolk looks moving forward for our future.

School Board member Dr. Adale Martin said, If we dont come up with 10 because 10 doesnt work for our school district, well have that discussion.

In a webpage discussing the new committee, its noted that NPS has faced an average annual enrollment decline of more than 400 students.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The roughly 50 schools in the school division can handle a combined capacity of nearly 37,000 students. Enrollment is currently less than 27,000.

The existing school portfolio was designed for a larger student population in a different era, and modernizing NPS requires a shift toward newer, fewer schools that can provide all students with the enriching, well-resourced educational environments they deserve, the webpage reads.

Feb-192025-BOE-Updated-3Download

The school board appointed 33 members to the committee back on March 19.

Its first meeting was held May 1 at Norview High School. The second will be held at the same location May 14.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The meetings will be public, however committee member Charla Smith-Worley said the real work will be collaborating with fellow committee members.

I think so weve got a wonderful, wonderful committee, Smith-Worley said. Its so diverse. I think that we can make a recommendation.

During its first meeting, the committee was provided the number of vacant seats per school.

Seven schools had more than 300 vacant seats, with Ruffner Schools 3rd-8th grades leading the list.

In addition, the committee is looking at the age of the schools.

In the latest facilities conditions assessment, 39 of Norfolks 49 schools acre considered in poor condition.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The average age of the citys schools is 55-years-old, six years above the national average for all school facilities, according to the USDoE National Center for Educational Statistics.

The current system needs an estimated $906 million in capital needs.

We also looked at the facilities scores to see the condition of the building and how much it would cost to redo if it was even possible to redo the building, said Liz Albert, another committee member. So we looked at that and deciding which schools we were able to consolidate.

Smith-Worley is confident the group can deliver a report to the school board by the end of June  even if everyone wont be happy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Im a retired schoolteacher, Smith-Worley said. Any time you change boundaries in any way, any time youre telling somebody youre going to a different school, its an emotional process. Were trying to take the emotion out of that. Its not going to be easy  and I think thats part of the reason nothing has been done.

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.
(WGHP)  From Greensboro to Thomasville, homeless camps have been a concern with citizens for years.

The solutions vary as to how leaders believe the problem can be addressed.

Randolph County Representative Brian Biggs is proposing a unique solution, but not everyone agrees with it.

This new bill would move the homeless population to designated areas.However, the advocates say this could lead to bigger problems.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Theres so many tents. Theres so many homeless there, and its unsanitary  This bill  Does it criminalize homelessness? No. It addresses the use of public property for camping and sleeping without prohibiting homelessness itself, Biggs said.

Biggs is sponsoring House Bill 781.

That bill would allow local leaders to designate city-owned properties for those who are unhoused to live.

This would only take effect if the indoor shelters run out of space, and its meant to be a temporary fix, only allowing up to a year.

Ryan Ross is the director of Open Door Ministries, which is a non-profit organization in High Point that helps the homeless. He says the proposal can cause more issues.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

People are then just going to move around and instead of congregating in one area where you can control it a little, they are going to spread out even more, he said.

Janise Hurley, director of Davidson Medical Ministries, a non-profit organization that serves as a gateway to community resources for those facing homelessness, says other states have gone down a similar path with no luck.

It hasnt benefited the people in general. It has only continued to increase the significant issue weve already been seeing, and it could be crime, trash. It could be personal hygiene issues, she said.

FOX8 brought these concerns to Biggs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I strongly believe in the importance of listening to those directly impacted by our policies  Input from affected individuals and service providers should be part of that conversation at the local level, he said.

The organizations say they are on the front lines working with the homeless population every single day, and they believe policies like this one often forget the real people.

Know the population you are dealing with before you make these decisions, Ross said.

We have to look at each person as an individual, and we know we treat people with problems. We dont treat people as problems, Hurley said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to Biggs office, the bill passed out of a North Carolina House committee on Tuesday and could be up for a vote as early as Wednesday. If it becomes law, it will go into effect in October.

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 FOX8 WGHP.
Democratic incumbent Supreme Court Justice Allison Riggs and her Republican challenger, Judge Jefferson Griffin. (Courtesy photos)

This story first appeared on NC Newsline.

The nations last unsettled race from the 2024 general election has been decided. North Carolina Supreme Court Republican candidate Jefferson Griffin has conceded to incumbent Democratic Justice Allison Riggs.

The Associated Press reported that Griffin provided a statement Wednesday morning indicating that he has decided not to appeal the ruling of U.S. District Court Judge Richard Myers II that Riggs must be certified as the winner.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While I do not fully agree with the District Courts analysis, I respect the courts holding  just as I have respected every judicial tribunal that has heard this case, Griffin said. I will not appeal the courts decision.

Riggs defeated Griffin by the razor-thin margin of 734 votes out or more than 5 million cast  a figure that was confirmed in two recounts. But Griffin challenged the result in a series of administrative and judicial proceedings.

On Monday, Myers issued a 68-page ruling directing the state Board of Elections to certify Riggs as the winner and rejecting Griffins effort to have thousands of ballots thrown out as violative of the U.S. Constitution, writing:

[T]his case concerns whether the federal Constitution permits a state to alter the rules of an election after the fact and apply those changes retroactively to only a select group of voters, and in so doing treat those voters differently than other similarly situated individuals. This case is also about whether a state may redefine its class of eligible voters but offer no process to those who may have been misclassified as ineligible.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To this court, the answer to each of those questions is no.

Justice Riggs issued the following statement in response to the concession:

After millions of dollars spent, more than 68,000 voters at risk of losing their votes, thousands of volunteers mobilized, hundreds of legal documents filed, and immeasurable damage done to our democracy, Im glad the will of the voters was finally heard, six months and two days after Election Day. Its been my honor to lead this fight  even though it should never have happened  and Im in awe of the North Carolinians whose courage reminds us all that we can use our voices to hold accountable any politician who seeks to take power out of the hands of the people.

The State Board of Elections was meeting Wednesday morning. Final certification of the election result will take place automatically at the end of the seven-day stay that Myers attached to his ruling in order to provide Griffin with an opportunity to appeal.

Lynn Bonner contributed to this report. NC Newsline is part of States Newsroom, a national nonprofit news organization.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW)  A North Carolina man was sentenced to 26 years in prison on Tuesday after pleading guilty in the November 2023 shooting death of his 19-year-old girlfriend in Horry County.

William Cody Perritt, 23, of Chadbourne, was sentenced by Horry County Circuit Judge Michael G. Nettles after entering an Alford plea to voluntary manslaughter in the Nov. 5, 2023, killing of Brooke Akins of Galivants Ferry. She died in the emergency room at McLeod Health Loris hospital after being shot in the head. He had been scheduled to stand trial starting on May. 12.

In an Alford plea, a person does not admit guilt but acknowledges a jury would likely convict them based on evidence. Perritt must serve at least 85% of his sentence before he can be considered for supervised release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Prosecutors said Perritt and Akins had been dating for about a year when he shot her at the Loris Motel. He was upset because he believed Akins was still in contact with one of her friends.

According to prosecutors, Akins stepmother, Paula Bryan, received a call from Akins at about 11:45 p.m. on Nov. 4, 2023, asking her to explain to Perritt that she was not having contact with her former friend. It was during that conversation that Perritt said, Ill put a hole in her head.

About 20 minutes after the call, Perritt called 911 and said Akins had been shot, prosecutors said. Bryan relayed that conversation and other things she heard to Nettles during court on Tuesday, the 15th Circuit Solicitors Office said

He said, I will put a bullet in her head. I will put a hole in her head, Bryan said during the hearing. She (Akins) took the phone off speaker and went into the bathroom, and she said he will calm down. He always calms down. I will never get her phone calls again. She was a bright light in this world and the world is not bright without her.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Perritt initially claimed that Akins had committed suicide, prosecutors said. However, he continued to change his story until stating that he was holding the gun when it went off. Perritt had no prior criminal record before his plea.

Akins grandmother, Sharon Johnson, also spoke during Tuesdays hearing and asked for the maximum sentence of 30 years for Perritt.

He goes to jail, and hes alive, Johnson said. His mom and daddy can see him and touch him. I cant touch her or hug her again. Thirty years may seem like a long time, but at least you can see him. I cant.

The family was pleased with the outcome of the case.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Brooke was a sweet teenage girl with a bright future, Solicitor Jimmy Richardson said. She wanted to be a teacher and help other children, but her life was over before it got started. Hopefully, Perritts sentencing will allow the families to start the healing process.

* * *

Dennis Bright is the Digital Executive Producer at News13. He joined the team in May 2021. Dennis is a West Virginia native and a graduate of Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. Follow Dennis on Facebook, X, formerly Twitter, and read 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 WBTW.
SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for his munitions industry to boost the production of artillery shells, state media said Wednesday, as the country continues to supply arms and troops to support Russias war on Ukraine.

North Koreas official Korean Central News Agency said that Kim, during recent visits to unspecified munitions and machinery factories, praised modernization efforts that the agency claimed enabled the facilities to double their annual shell production capacity.

Kim urged workers to further accelerate artillery shell production, calling it crucial to strengthening the fighting efficiency of his armed forces, and also called for the development of more advanced machinery to boost munitions output. KCNA did not mention any comments from Kim regarding his support for Russian President Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Recent South Korean intelligence assessments suggest that North Korea has sent about 15,000 soldiers to Russia, and that nearly 5,000 of them have been killed or injured while fighting against Ukrainian forces. Washington and Seoul have also accused North Korea of supplying Russia with various types of military equipment, including artillery systems and shells and ballistic missiles.

After denying its war involvement for months, North Korea last month confirmed for the first time that it had sent combat troops to help Russia in recapturing parts of the Kursk region, which had fallen to a surprise Ukrainian incursion last year. Moscow also acknowledged the North Korean involvement, with Putin issuing a statement thanking the North for sending troops to support his forces and promising not to forget their sacrifices.

Analysts say North Koreas official acknowledgment of its military support for Russia is likely aimed at cementing a deeper, long-term partnership with Moscow and securing greater compensation, potentially including advanced military technology that could enhance the threat posed by Kims nuclear-armed forces.

By formalizing its role as a participant in the war, North Korea may also be positioning itself to seek compensation in future negotiations to end the conflict in Ukraine, according to a recent report by the Institute for National Security Strategy, a think tank affiliated with South Koreas intelligence agency.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a closed-door briefing to lawmakers last month, South Koreas National Intelligence Service also said it believes that North Korea has sent about 15,000 workers to Russia under bilateral industrial cooperation programs.

While the value of North Korean artillery and missiles supplied to Russia likely amounts to billions of dollars, there are no immediate signs that Russia has provided direct cash payments in return, the agency said. Instead, Russia has likely compensated North Korea with air defense missiles, electronic warfare equipment, drones and technology for spy satellite launches, according to the assessment.
JERUSALEM, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said on Wednesday that a planned expanded military operation in the Gaza Strip would force the enclave's entire population to either relocate to a confined area in the south or to "voluntarily" emigrate, as Israeli forces prepare to seize control of the entire territory.

"We will act with full force and will not stop until all objectives are achieved, including the voluntary emigration plan for Gaza residents," Katz said during a a situational assessment meeting with senior commanders held in preparation for the operation, according to a statement issued on his behalf.

The announcement came amid growing international concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where populations have faced mass starvation and famine since Israel blocked all humanitarian aid on March 2.

Katz said the new operation, approved by the Israeli security cabinet on Monday, is intended to dismantle Hamas's military and governing capabilities and to secure the release of 59 hostages still held in the enclave.

Unlike past operations, "the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) will remain in every area it captures," he said.

However, he added that the Israeli forces are still in preparations, providing "a window of opportunity, until the end of the U.S. president's visit to the region, to reach a hostage deal based on the 'Witkoff plan.'"

U.S. President Donald Trump will visit the Gulf from May 13 to 16.

The "Witkoff plan," named after U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff and formally presented by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in early March, proposed the release of additional Israeli hostages in return for a 50-day truce and a promise to engage in talks on a longer truce. The proposal did not mention a withdrawal of Israeli forces or the release of Palestinian prisoners, two of Hamas's key demands.

Katz said that even if a ceasefire is reached, "Israel will not withdraw from the security buffer zone," referring to land the Israeli army has already seized. 
Chinese authorities in the northeastern city of Shenyang reportedly arrested a North Korean IT specialist in late April 2025, accusing him of stealing drone technology secrets.

The suspect, apparently linked to North Koreas main missile development agency, was part of a wider network operating in China, according to the story, which first appeared in South Koreas Yonhap News Agency. In response, Pyongyang was said to have recalled IT personnel in China.

The story was later circulated by several Chinese online outlets. Given the tight censorship in China, this implies a degree of tacit editorial approval from Beijing  although some sites later deleted the story. In a response to Yonhap over the alleged incident, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson noted that North Korea and China were friendly neighbors that maintained normal personnel exchanges, without denying the details.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The incident suggests a rare semipublic spat between the two neighboring communist countries, contradicting the image of China and North Korea as brothers in arms.

As a scholar of Northeast Asian security, I see the arrest  which has gotten little attention in English-language media  as representative of a wider, more nuanced picture of the two countries current relations. There are signs that Beijing is growing frustrated with Pyongyang  not least over North Koreas increasing closeness with Moscow. Such a development challenges Chinas traditional role as North Koreas primary patron.

In short, the arrest could be a symptom of worsening ties between the two countries.

Beijings dilemma over North Korea

North Korea has long been seen by Beijing as both a strategic security buffer and within its natural sphere of influence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

From Chinas perspective, allowing a hostile force to gain control of the peninsula  and especially the north  could open the door to future military threats. This fear partly explained why China intervened during the Korean War of 1950-1953.

Beyond security, North Korea also serves as an ideological ally. Both countries are run by communist parties  the Chinese Communist Party and the Workers Party of Korea  although the former operates as a Leninist party-state system with a partial embrace of market capitalism, while the latter remains a rigid socialist state characterized by a strong personality cult.

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Beijing on Jan. 8, 2019. Xinhua/Li Xueren via Getty Images

Even today, Chinese state media continues to highlight the bonds of comradeship with Pyongyang.

However, Pyongyangs nuclear ambitions have long troubled Beijing. North Korea has conducted multiple nuclear tests since 2006 and is now believed to possess nuclear weapons capable of targeting South Korea, Japan and U.S. bases in the region.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

China supports a denuclearized and stable Korean peninsula  both for regional peace and economic growth. Like the U.S., Japan and South Korea, China opposes nuclear proliferation, fearing North Koreas periodic tests could provoke U.S. military action or trigger an arms race in the region.

Meanwhile, Washington and its allies continue to pressure Beijing to do more to rein in a neighbor it often views as a vassal state of China.

Given Chinas economic ties with the U.S. and Washingtons East Asian allies  mainly South Korea and Japan  it has every reason to avoid further instability from Pyongyang.

Yet to North Koreas isolationist rulers, nuclear weapons are vital for the regimes survival and independence. Whats more, nuclear weapons can also limit Beijings influence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un worries that without nuclear leverage, China could try to interfere in the internal affairs of his country. After the death if Kims father, Kim Jong Il, in 2011, Beijing was thought to favor Kim Jong Uns elder half-brother Kim Jong Nam as successor  possibly prompting Kim Jong Un to have him assassinated in 2017.

But despite ongoing tensions over the nuclear issue, China has continued to support the North Korean regime for strategic reasons.

For decades, China has been Pyongyangs top trading partner, providing crucial economic aid. In 2023, China accounted for about 98% of North Koreas official trade and continued to supply food and fuel to keep the regime afloat.

Pyongyang pals up with Putin

Yet over the past few years, more of North Koreas imports, notably oil, have come from another source: Russia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

North Korea and Russia had been close allies during the Cold War, but ties cooled after the Soviet Union collapsed in the early 1990s.

More recently, a shared hostility toward the U.S. and the West in general has brought the two nations closer.

Moscows international isolation following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine and its deteriorating ties with South Korea in particular have pushed it toward Pyongyang. North Korea has reportedly supplied large quantities of ammunition to Russia, becoming a critical munitions supplier in the Ukraine war.

Though both governments deny the arms trade  banned under United Nations sanctions  North Korea is thought to have received fuel, food and access to Russian military and space technology in return. On March 8, 2025, North Korea unveiled a nuclear-powered submarine that experts believe may involve Russian technological assistance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By 2024, Russian forces were using around 10,000 shells per day in Ukraine, with half sourced from North Korea. Some front-line units were reportedly using North Korean ammunition for up to 60% of their firepower.

High-level visits have also increased. In July 2023, Russias defense minister, Andrey Belousov, visited Pyongyang for the 70th anniversary of the Korean War armistice, followed by Kim Jong Uns visit to Russia in September for a summit with President Vladimir Putin.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un share a toast during a reception in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024. Vladmir Smirnov/AFP via Getty Images

In June 2024, Putin visited Pyongyang, where the two countries signed a comprehensive strategic cooperation agreement, including a pledge that each would come to the others aid if attacked.

Soon after, North Korea began sending troops to support Russia. Intelligence from the U.S., South Korea and Ukraine indicates that Pyongyang deployed 10,000 to 12,000 soldiers in late 2023, marking its first involvement in a major conflict since the Korean War. North Korean soldiers reportedly receive at least US$2,000 per month plus a bonus. For Pyongyang, this move not only provides financial gain but also combat experience should war ever reignite on the Korean Peninsula.

Why China is worried

China, too, has remained on friendly terms with Russia since the war in Ukraine began. So why would it feel uneasy about the growing closeness between Pyongyang and Moscow?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For starters, China views Pyongyangs outreach to Moscow as a challenge to its traditional role as North Koreas main patron. While still dependent on Chinese aid, North Korea appears to be seeking greater autonomy.

The strengthening of RussiaNorth Korea ties also fuels Western fears of an axis of upheaval involving all three countries.

Unlike North Koreas confrontational stance toward the West and its neighbor to the south, Beijing has offered limited support to Moscow during the Ukraine war and is cautious not to appear part of a trilateral alliance.

Behind this strategy is a desire on behalf of China to maintain stable relations with the U.S., Europe and key Asian neighbors like Japan and South Korea. Doing so may be the best way for Beijing to protect its economic and diplomatic interests.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

China is also concerned that with Russian support in nuclear and missile technologies, Pyongyang may act more provocatively  through renewed nuclear tests or military clashes with South Korea. And this would only destabilize the region and strain Chinas ties with the West.

A defiant and provocative Pyongyang

The timing of the alleged spy drama may offer further clues regarding the state of relations.

It came just a day after North Korea officially confirmed it had deployed troops to aid the Russian war effort. It also announced plans to erect a monument in Pyongyang honoring its soldiers who died in the Ukraine war.

The last spy case like this was in June 2016 when Chinese authorities arrested a North Korean citizen in the border city of Dandong. It reportedly followed Pyongyang informing China that it would permanently pursue its nuclear weapons program.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The China-North Korea relationship deteriorated further when North Korea successfully tested a hydrogen bomb in September 2016, prompting Beijing to back U.N. Security Council sanctions against Pyongyang.

Again, this time North Korea shows little sign of bending to Chinas will. On April 30, Kim oversaw missile launches from North Koreas first 5,000-ton destroyer, touted as its most heavily armed warship.

None of which will help ease Beijings concerns. While China still sees Pyongyang as a critical buffer against U.S. influence in Northeast Asia, an increasingly provocative North Korea, fueled by a growing relationship with Russia, is starting to look less like a strategic asset  and more like a liability.

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: Linggong Kong, Auburn University

Read more:



Linggong Kong 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.
On numerous occasions, President Donald Trump has defended those who stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, calling them patriots and pardoning them for their actions.

Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., however, says those who ransacked the Capitol disgraced their country and announced Tuesday he would not support a Trump nominee for supporting the rioters.

The nominee Tillis wont support is Ed Martin, Trumps pick for U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C. Martin is currently serving as interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Tillis said he could not support Martin because he advocated for rioters who stormed the building on Jan. 6.

As a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Tilliss vote is crucial for Martins nomination to advance to the Senate floor.

Martin promoted Donald Trumps Stop the Steal campaign and was also seen on the grounds of the Capitol during the attack on Jan.6, according to ABC News.

He also has praised convicted Jan. 6 rioter Timothy Hale-Cusanelli, a man federal prosecutors describe as a Nazi sympathizer, as an amazing guy and great friend, according to NPR.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If Mr. Martin were being put forth as a U.S. attorney for any district except the district where Jan. 6 happened, the protest happened, Id probably support him but not in this district, Tillis said.

The senator told reporters that he and Martin had a meeting where the interim attorney made a case that some participants in the riot were overcharged for their crimes. Still, Tillis could not see eye-to-eye with Martin.

He made a compelling case on some of the prosecutions that were probably in the heat of the moment bad decisions, Tillis said. But where we probably have a difference is, I think anybody that breached the perimeter should have been in prison for some period of time. Whether its 30 days or three years is debatable, but I have no tolerance for anybody who entered the building on Jan. 6th, and thats probably where most of the friction was.

The attack on the Capitol on Jan. 6 was an attempt to cease the certification of the 2020 election results. The 2020 election resulted in Trump being defeated by then-Vice President Joe Biden.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Jan. 6, the Capitol was breached and vandalized while members of Congress and Vice President Mike Pence were whisked away by the Secret Service to avoid confrontation with the rioters.

Trump has called the attack on the Capitol a day of love, saying that those who were tried and jailed for their crimes were treated unfairly.

In the first days of his second term, Trump gave a blanket pardon to the more than 1,500 people who faced prosecution for the riot.

During his comments with reporters on Tuesday, Tillis said that there were 200 or 300 people involved in Jan. 6 who should have never received a pardon. These comments put him at odds with Trump and with some members of his own party.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tillis himself is up for re-election in 2026 in a race that is considered to be competitive by the University of Virginias Center for Politics.

But we have to be very, very clear that what happened on January 6 was wrong, Tillis said. It wasnt prompted or created by other people to put those people in trouble. They made a stupid decision and they disgraced the United States by absolutely destroying the Capitol, and I cant have any patience.

More on Politics

Read the original article on MassLive.
It was part of JD Vances first international trip as United States vice president: The former senator from Ohio was taking a tour of Europe, representing the second administration of President Donald Trump on the world stage.

A major point on his itinerary was a speech he would give to the 61st annual Munich Security Conference on February 14, in front of leaders representing some of the USs closest allies.

But rather than celebrate those historic ties, Vance took a more aggressive approach. Perched at the podium in Munich, he shocked onlookers by criticising Europe, warning against laws and restrictions he said could destroy democracy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It has been nearly three months since Vance delivered that speech, and on Wednesday, the vice president returned to the Munich forum, this time for its leaders meeting in Washington, DC.

In a question-and-answer segment with German diplomat Wolfgang Ischinger, Vance revisited his February speech, which sparked backlash within Europe and at home. He also gave a preview of US negotiations over Irans nuclear programme and Russias invasion of Ukraine.

Here are three key takeaways from his remarks.

Wolfgang Ischinger, chair of the Munich Security Conference, moderated the discussion with Vance [Kevin Lamarque/Reuters]

Mending fences with Europe

Wednesdays public appearance marked the third time Vance spoke to an event hosted by the Munich Security Conference. But his last speech  with its accusations of democratic backsliding  loomed heavily over the proceedings.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Vance tried to reframe his remarks on Wednesday as respectful criticism between allies, emphasising the warm relations the US and Europe have traditionally shared.

 I think  I mean this from the heart and as a friend  that there is a trade-off between policing the bounds of democratic speech and debate and losing the trust of our people. And were all going to draw the lines a little bit differently, Vance said. Im fine if one country is going to draw those lines a little bit differently than the United States.

He added that questions of free speech and democratic principles are issues the US is grappling with, too.

I think all of us, including especially the United States, we have to be careful that we dont draw the lines in such a way that we actually undermine the very democratic legitimacy upon which all of our civilization rests, the vice president explained.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 I think that is fundamentally the point here. Its not Europe bad, America good.

Ultimately, he said, Europe and the US are on the same civilizational team, and he underscored his belief that no wedge could come between them, even if the two parties exchanged criticism.

Vance took a softer tone than during his last appearance at Februarys Munich Security Conference, which sparked criticism [Kevin Lamarque/Reuters]

Walking a fine line with Iran

Vance also struck an upbeat tone in his assessment of the USs efforts to scale back Irans nuclear programme, saying the two countries are on the right pathway.

 Without prejudging the negotiations, I will say: So far, so good. Weve been very happy by how the Iranians have responded to some of the points that weve made, Vance said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Vances optimism offered a counterpoint to concerns that the negotiations could be derailed by continuing tensions between the US and Iran.

Last week, a fourth round of talks expected in Rome were postponed for logistical reasons, though experts pointed out that the delay coincided with a fresh slate of US sanctions against Irans petroleum industry. Those talks are slated to resume this weekend in Omans capital Muscat.

On Wednesday, Vance stressed the US position that Washington will not allow Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon, though he expressed ambivalence about nuclear energy for civilian purposes.

We dont care if people want nuclear power. Were fine with that. But you cant have the kind of enrichment programme that allows you to get to a nuclear weapon. And thats where we draw the line, Vance said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Still, the question of nuclear enrichment  even for civilian purposes  has been a point of contention in recent weeks. Certain US officials have signalled they would like to see Iran eliminate its enrichment programme altogether.

For his part, Vance questioned whether it was likely Iran would use uranium enrichment solely for nuclear power, not weaponry.

Let me ask this basic question: Which regime in the world has civil nuclear power and enrichment without having a nuclear weapon? Vance asked. The answer is no one.

Iran has long denied any ambition of seeking a nuclear weapon, and it has signalled it is willing to scale back its enrichment programme. Previously, it had signed onto a 2015 deal, called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), that imposed limits to its nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During his first term, however, Trump withdrew the US from the agreement, causing the pact to fall apart. The US president has since sought to rekindle nuclear negotiations with Iran during his second term.

We really think that, if the Iran domino falls, youre gonna see nuclear proliferation all over the Middle East, Vance said.

Vance spoke to the ongoing negotiations with Iran, Russia and Ukraine [Kevin Lamarque/Reuters]

Not pessimistic about peace in Ukraine

The vice president also shared his insight into another area of tense international negotiation: the war between Russia and Ukraine.

Since February 2022, Russia has led a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, after capturing regions including Crimea in 2014.

In his campaign for re-election last year, Trump pledged to end the slow-grinding war, which has cost thousands of lives. He even claimed he would stop the war on his first day back in office, though he has since backtracked, telling Time Magazine he meant those remarks figuratively.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But Trump has nevertheless sought to act as a mediator between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. His administration, however, has been criticised for negotiating with Russia in isolation and seeming to acquiesce to Putins demands.

Trump, for instance, has echoed Russian talking points blaming Ukraine for the war and saying that Zelenskyy can forget about membership in the NATO military alliance. His officials have also suggested Ukraine was unlikely to regain the territory it had lost to Russias invasion.

Vance took a slightly tougher stance against Russia on Wednesday, underscoring that he and the Trump administration did not see eye to eye with Putin.

 You dont have to agree with the Russian justification for the war, and certainly both the president and I have criticised the full-scale invasion, Vance said. But you have to try to understand where the other side is coming from to end the conflict.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The vice president sought to justify Trumps approach as an effort to bring both sides to the negotiating table, in the spirit of what he called strategic realism.

Our view is: Its absurd that youve had this war go on for so long. And the two sides arent even talking constructively about what would be necessary for them to end the conflict, Vance explained.

 A frustration that weve had frankly with both sides is that they hate each other so much  that, if you have an hour conversation with either side, the first 30 minutes is just them complaining about some historical grievance from four years ago or five years ago or 10 years ago.

Vance laid out his position that Russia is asking for too much in terms of concessions from Ukraine. But he also criticised Ukraine for sticking to a 30-day ceasefire proposal that initially emerged from talks with the US in Saudi Arabia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 What the Russians have said is a 30-day ceasefire is not in our strategic interest, Vance said. So weve tried to move beyond the obsession with the 30-day ceasefire and more on: What would the long-term settlement look like?

He added that he was not yet that pessimistic on the prospect of a negotiated peace, despite rumblings from the White House that Trump may withdraw from the negotiations altogether.
SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV)  The Trump Administration announced that $1 billion in funding has been cut towards mental health services for children.

Following this announcement, State Attorney General Letitia James announced a lawsuit against the administration, calling recent actions dangerous, cruel and illegal.

We are asking the court to halt the unlawful dismantling of HHS, mass firings, and to restore the lifesaving programs that millions of Americans depend on, James said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Those cuts are going to compromise a health and human service care system that is already struggling to provide adequate resources for those in individuals in need, said Dave Roberts, an Adjunct Professor of Psychology Child-Life at Utica University.

Roberts says the cuts will play a role in a childs development.

I think the services we provide not only from a mental health standpoint, but support standpoint, can help individuals develop the coping skills to navigate challenging times, but also develop essential critical thinking skills, Roberts said.

The Lemoyne College Wellness Center for Health and Counseling offers mental health services. The director tells us that a lot of young adults they see have been treated before going to college.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Students who are identified early and get treatment early are much more successful moving through their academic years, said Maria Randazzo, the centers director.

And if students arent treated.

Theyre not going to be academically successful, they will tend to isolate, they will not engage socially. We find they dont connect to the campus as well, Randazzo said.

The decision to cut funding comes as the trump administration takes sweeping action against DEI programs and alleged racial discrimination practices in schools.

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 WSYR.
There are two men in American public life who evoke a sense of jeopardy about how their every sentence might end, and they happen to be the current and former presidents.

We have become accustomed to enduring the simultaneous nail-biting and toe-curling when Donald Trump speaks. Now Joe Biden has made a return to the political fray, however, in the form of an interview with the BBCs Nick Robinson to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, the world was reminded of why Americans elected Trump in the first place.

All the doddering and signs of mental infirmity were there. Every time he answered a question, you never felt confident he was going to reach the end of it at all, let alone in a way that made sense. Imagine there being no Nato. Do you think Putin would have stopped at Ukraine? he asked, as if the Russians had already occupied Poland.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Putin said when he talked about going from Kyiv to Ukraine and why, he cant stand the fact that the Russian dictatorship that he runs, that the Soviet Union, has collapsed, he added. You kind of knew what he meant, but only by blurring your eyes and looking at it from a distance.

But the lack of self-awareness that such an interview constituted  with the BBC rather than an American broadcaster  paled into insignificance when it came to his attacks on Trump for appeasement over Ukraine. Its not that one disagreed with the man; but given his own track record on the Middle East, was he really the best person to make that argument?

The interview came shortly after the release of a new Pentagon report revealing that Bidens Gaza pier project  remember that?  had injured more than 60 American troops. It had cost the US taxpayer $230 million and was announced with great fanfare at Bidens state of the union address in March last year.

By July, however, it had been mothballed, after a piece of it broke off in inclement weather and washed up among the sunbathers on Tel Avivs Frishman Beach. In the first week of its operations, three-quarters of the aid it had delivered had been stolen by Palestinians unknown on the way to a UN storage facility. Now we learn that more than a platoon of American servicemen were wounded in the debacle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That summed it up, didnt it? An out-of-touch leader, more concerned with virtue signalling to his own restive Left wing than making a meaningful contribution towards victory over jihadism, presides over a policy that would embarrass a tinpot dictator let alone the worlds biggest superpower.

That was only the beginning. It is important to recognise Bidens early support for Israel  sending those two aircraft carrier strike groups in the wake of October 7 may have been instrumental in deterring Hezbollah, and defending its skies from Iranian missiles was crucial  but as time wore on, his approach boiled down to three things: public criticism of his ally, repetition of Hamas talking points about the suffering of civilians (which they were trying to cause in the first place), and a cloth-eared demand for de-escalation, no matter what situation arose.

Remember his administration insisting that Israel did not invade Rafah? Remember how Kamala Harris said she had studied the maps and there was nowhere for civilians to go? Remember how Israel ignored those ultimatums, evacuated a million civilians in ten days and proceeded to conquer the city with very few innocent lives lost?

If Bidens appeasement  let us name it  had been heeded, Yahya Sinwar would still be alive. Rafah, with all its smuggling tunnels from Egypt through which it could rearm, would remain in the hands of Hamas. Irans air defences would be intact (Biden advised Israel to take the win rather than retaliate after Tehran rained 300 missiles into its territory in April last year).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hezbollah, the largest and most lethal threat on Israels borders, would still be enjoying lobbing rockets into the Jewish state and finalising plans for its own version of October 7 on a larger scale. Who knows whether any further hostages would have been released. And does anybody believe that the Houthis would have thrown up their arms, as they did yesterday, with Biden still in the White House?

This is before we have even considered his cack-handed policy towards Iran, which involved telegraphing his desperation for a nuclear deal before even entering the Oval office, then allowing his negotiators to be strung along for months while quietly lifting as many sanctions as he could and watching as Tehran quietly made advances towards an atomic bomb. The man was all carrot, no stick.

So please, Joe Biden, do not lecture us about appeasement. Trumps repulsive betrayal of Ukraine and Nato is indefensible, but you are hardly the man to make that argument. After all, if it wasnt for your out-of-touch, self-satisfied, spineless administration, which placed appeasement at the heart of its foreign policy and was content on the domestic front to be ideologically captured by contemptible progressive radicals, Trump might never have been elected in the first place.

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.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Discussion took place again Monday on changing Troost Avenue to Truth Avenue, but not much took place during the Special Committee for Legal Review meeting.

Monday, this item was the only for review within City Hall in KCMO, during that specific session.

KCK man convicted for high-speed chase in Leavenworth County

This was a day of denial, but that doesnt mean that were not going to continue to fight, Councilwoman Melissa Robinson said. I think about the descendants of slaves, and I think about young people who live along Troost, and I think about them writing that name everyday as their address and I have a problem with that.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During the public testimony of the session, many shared their thoughts and feelings on the matter. Some described their opposition to it, in its entirety, the process so far, and/or offered up their own name suggestions for the avenue.

I am 100% against the renaming of Troost to Truth. Renaming Troost is a superficial way to addressing racial inequality, one man shared during public comment Monday.

Out of the dozen-plus members of the public that spoke Monday, most were in favor of the name change.

Chris Goode, a business owner of a Ruby Jeans, a juicery on Troost Avenue, is one of them.

My granddaddy couldnt have purchased the real estate that I own. My body would have not have been my own. My ancestors were whipped and spit on and forced to pick fruit trees on that land, Goode shared.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

His shop on Troost Avenue reads 3000 Truth already.

Ive already moved on, and that was a very nominal cost for me, he said. Its exhausting. What will it take? What will it take for us to be seen as equal? What will it take?

Mayor Quinton Lucas shared some thoughts with FOX4 Monday on this ordinance as well.

I think my focus is going to be what the people of Kansas City sent me here to do. What they sent me here to do was make sure the busses are better on Troost, are businesses are safer on Troost. That we are building more economic development on Troost and East of Troost. My priority is always going to be how do I build a better quality of life, Lucas said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Committee, Monday, voted this ordinance to be held off docket and wasnt given any green light to progress. Conversation surrounding it could come back up in the future.

According to the Legislation Text of Ordinance No. 250202, the name change of Troost to Truth would have been effective within six months after the ordinance passed, and $50,000 would have come from the General Fund to change street markers along the avenue.

Groundbreaking held for Cultural Heritage Trail at Brush Creek

The text also reads, Troost Avenue was named after Benoist Troost, a Kansas City physician, and known slave owner.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Robinson said, signage from Troost Avenue would live in museums, and not be erased completely, if this ordinance were to pass.

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.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI)  Rhode Island College (RIC) and the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) announced the launch of a new fully online Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-to-BSN) program.

The announcement was made Tuesday in honor of National Nurses Day and marks a joint effort between the two schools to expand access to nursing education in Rhode Island.

The new program is designed to provide a more seamless and flexible pathway for registered nurses with associate degrees to earn their bachelors degrees without leaving the state or interrupting their careers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As an associate degree nurse myself, who went on to get a bachelors in nursing at Rhode Island College many, many years ago, I can tell you that having this program will be a game-changer for you, CCRI President Rosemary Costigan said. Im so excited that our graduates will have this opportunity.

12 HEALTH: Providence College launches new nursing and health sciences program

Previously, students were required to navigate the transfer process into the BSN program while balancing residencies and other responsibilities. This new unified program allows CCRI graduates to transition directly into RICs BSN program, making it easier to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

I was actually looking at out-of-state programs, so this being available is amazing so I dont have to travel, move, whatever the case may be, nursing student Mackenzie Jones said. This is definitely very rewarding. It feels amazing that people even care enough to make this happen for us.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The new pathway is expected to strengthen Rhode Islands health care system by helping nurses advance their careers and earn higher salaries through continued education.

RIC is currently accepting applications from CCRI nursing graduates for the fall semester.

NEXT: McKee rolls out RI primary care reforms; Neronha criticizes half-baked approach

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.

Follow us on social media:

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

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.
A New York town official allegedly shot a lost DoorDash driver who rang his home doorbell looking for directions during a late-night delivery, according to cops.

Town of Chester highway superintendent John J. Reilly III fired multiple shots, striking the 24-year-old driver in the back when the worker approached his Chester, NY, home on May 2, according to New York State Police.

The unidentified driver was out on a delivery for the popular online food ordering service in the wooded Valerie Drive neighborhood when he lost his navigation and approached several homes asking for directions.

The unidentified, 24-year-old DoorDash driver spotted on a doorbell camera in the Town of Chester neighborhood on May 2, 2025. ABC 7

I need help, the West Africa native cried out in a neighbors doorbell camera video, according to WABC.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Reilly was inside his Orange County home, about 60 miles north of Manhattan, when the driver approached the house at 9:50 p.m.

The town official warned the driver to get off his property before he drew a gun and shot at the stranger several times, police said

The worker was hit once in the back as he attempted to leave the residential neighborhood in his car.

The drivers family recalled the harrowing encounter he had with Reilly.

He asked the guy, Is this your order? The guy said, No, and proceeds to say, Get off my property. He walks away, hes going about his day, going to his car, and the guy tries to murder him, one relative of the driver told the outlet. He just started shooting at him and he thought his life was over.

Town of Chester highway superintendent John J. Reilly III was arrested and charged on May 3, 2025. New York State Police

Police ruled the driver wasnt doing anything suspicious and was just out there doing his job.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Theres nothing to indicate the victim had any nefarious intentions, hes just out there doing his job, trying to make a food delivery, New York State Police Capt. Joseph Kolek told reporters.

Not knowing what to do, the driver drove back to his home in nearby Middletown before going to the hospital.

The mans wounds were listed as serious but non-fatal, police said.

The driver had recently moved to the US from his native Guinea-Bissau to live with his family and was working for DoorDash to earn money.

No one should ever fear for their safety just for trying to make deliveries in their neighborhood, a DoorDash spokesperson told The Post. Were devastated by this senseless act of violence, and were wishing the Dasher a full and speedy recovery.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Well continue to work closely with law enforcement as they investigate this tragic incident.

The delivery driver was seriously wounded in the shooting. ABC 7

Officials were alerted to the gunshot wound by hospital staff and arrested Reilly on May 3.

Reilly, a federally licensed firearm dealer, was charged with first-degree assault, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon and criminal possession of a firearm.

He was booked into Orange County Jail on a $500,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on May 9.

The drivers family found consolation knowing their loved one wasnt killed.

Were not a hateful family or anything. Yes, the situation makes us angry, but were just very grateful that hes alive, and we want this guy to get the punishment he deserves because he tried to kill him, the relative added.

A No Trespassing sign posted in front of the driveway leading to Reillys home after the shooting.

Town of Chester Supervisor Brandon Holdridge said he wouldnt take a position on the case during the investigation, adding that Reilly is innocent until proven guilty.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Town Board and I are aware of the ongoing situation concerning highway superintendent John Reilly. We are deeply troubled by what has been reported so far. We hope the person who was injured in the incident makes a full and healthy recovery,

New York State Police Troop F took over the investigation after the Chester Police Department recused itself from the case.

As an elected official, the Town Board does not have control over Mr. Reillys future as highway superintendent, Holdridge added.

He said the town will continue to run regular operations despite the investigation.
NEW YORK  New York Citys Campaign Finance Board is sticking to its guns in denying Mayor Eric Adams more than $4 million in public matching funds for his reelection run  and will not give him another chance to challenge the decision until mid-July, the Daily News has learned.

The board first denied Adams the matching funds in December 2024, citing a number of compliance issues, including his federal corruption indictment accusing him of taking bribes and illegal campaign cash from Turkish government operatives.

After President Trumps Department of Justice secured a controversial dismissal of Adams indictment in early April, his campaign filed a formal petition last week urging the board to reconsider its denial of funds.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In an email to Adams campaign attorney Vito Pitta last Friday, Joseph Gallagher, the CFBs general counsel, wrote that the board is denying the request for reconsideration, reiterating that the dismissal of his indictment didnt change the panels view that Adams likely engaged in violations of federal, state and/or city law.

The CFB has cited the same reasoning in reaffirming its Adams decision at multiple board meetings earlier this year. Adams has said he did nothing wrong.

In Fridays email, Gallagher took it a step further, writing that the board will not consider any additional challenges from Adams until its July 15 public matching funds disbursement.

The email, a copy of which was obtained by The News via a Freedom of Information Law request, said the reason the board wont give Adams another crack at changing its mind until then is because hes no longer running in the June 24 Democratic mayoral primary.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Because the candidate is not on the primary election ballot, the next opportunity for the campaign to demonstrate its eligibility for public matching funds is the July 15, 2025 payment date, Gallagher wrote.

In the interim, Gallagher wrote the CFB welcomes the campaign to provide any and all documentation and/or explanations to demonstrate to the board that there is no reason to believe that the candidate, in the course of public funds program participation, engaged in conduct detrimental to the public funds program that is in violation of federal, state and/or City Law.

A spokesman for Adams reelection campaign didnt immediately return a request for comment Wednesday. Under the law, Adams campaign could sue to try to overturn the CFBs continued denial now that the reconsideration petition has been rejected.

Shortly after the dismissal of his indictment, Adams dropped out of Junes Democratic primary and announced hed instead seek reelection as an independent candidate in Novembers general election. Trumps DOJ sought the dismissal saying it needed Adams to assist in the presidents mass deportation efforts, leaving many to say he is beholden to Trumps agenda. Adams denies theres a quid pro quo.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The board barring Adams from even trying to challenge the matching funds denial until July 15 could pose a challenge for him.

As an independent candidate, Adams is already facing a very narrow path to reelection in the heavily Democratic city. He is contending with record-low approval ratings and has less campaign cash on hand than several of the candidates in the Democratic primary, who have already received millions of dollars in public matching funds.

Ex-Gov. Andrew Cuomo, whos polling as the favorite to win the mayoral primary, was also denied matching funds in April due to a paperwork error, but his team says he expects to get millions of dollars in the public cash later this month.

The matching funds program uses public cash to match any donation mayoral candidates receive from a city resident at an 8:1 ratio up to $250. That calculation can provide for a critical cash infusion, as mayoral hopefuls need millions of dollars to staff their campaigns, pay for ads and otherwise get their messaging out.

_____
Prayer is Not a Crime -- Minister Publicly Prays Throughout the US Capitol Building Following News Stories Reporting Prayer is Prohibited and Illegal in the Capitol

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Christian Defense Coalition

May 7, 2025

WASHINGTON, May 7, 2025 /Standard Newswire/  National and international headlines and news stories reported that Bishop William Barber was arrested while praying at the US Capitol on Monday, April 28th.



Rev. William Barber arrested while praying at US Capitol. Heres what we know. A link to one of the many news stories:

Rev. Patrick Mahoney, Director of the Christian Defense Coalition based in Washington, challenged the alleged prohibition on prayer by walking throughout the US Capitol on Tuesday, May 6, publicly praying out loud.

Here is a short video of Rev. Mahoney praying in the Capitol Rotunda.

Rev. Mahoney wanted to ensure public prayer and freedom of religion were allowed and protected in the United States Capitol Building.

Here is what Rev. Mahoneys public prayer witness at the Capitol established:

Public prayer is allowed in the United States Capitol Building and is not illegal or prohibited.



 What is prohibited and illegal are demonstrations which include: people gathering or individually drawing attention to themselves inside the Capitol Building to express support for or disapproval of an identified action or viewpoint.

Rev. Patrick Mahoney, Director of the Christian Defense Coalition, states:

The United States Capitol should be a safe place for people to pray, regardless of what their political or religious views might be, without government intimidation, harassment or arrest. When I heard there was an 'alleged' prohibition of public prayer at the Capitol, I knew it had to be challenged.

On Tuesday, May 6, I walked and publicly prayed throughout much of the United States Capitol building. I prayed for spiritual awakening, revival and cultural transformation. I prayed for America to embrace human rights and justice for the marginalized and disenfranchised, for God to protect Haitian immigrants, and for our nation to love our neighbors.

I also publicly asked God to guide the members of Congress in making and passing critical legislation which benefit all our citizens and help heal our nation.

There were no arrests, threats or harassment by law enforcement as it became clear public prayer is allowed in the United States Capitol Building and religious freedom is protected.

Rev. Mahoney has won several historic federal lawsuits which have reopened the Capitol grounds to religious freedom, free speech and other peaceful 1st Amendment activities.

For more information or interviews call

Rev. Patrick Mahoney at: 540.538.4741



SOURCE Christian Defense Coalition
ULAN BATOR, May 7 (Xinhua)-- Mongolia has been fighting against a forest and steppe fire in a northern Mongolian province, the country's National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said on Wednesday.

More than 450 people including firefighters and local residents joined in the battle, the NEMA said.

The forest and steppe fire broke out on April 29 in the Eruu soum (administrative subdivision) of the Selenge province due to the negligence of citizens, and has spread to the territory of Tushig soum of above-mentioned province, the NEMA said in a statement.

"It is hard to put out the forest and steppe fire due to windy and dry weather conditions and dust storms in Selenge province. Therefore, additional firefighters, rescuers, helicopters and firefighting vehicles are now being sent to the epicenter of the wildfire," the emergency agency said.

According to experts, the main causes of natural fires are careless handling of fire by citizens, as well as deliberate burning of grass and debris.

Due to the dry and windy weather conditions in most parts of Mongolia, in the spring of 2025 there is a high risk of sudden forest-steppe fires, it said, urging the public to prevent possible wildfires. 
All aboard the blame train!

Mayor Eric Adams jumped into the tunnel tug-of-war  blasting Amtraks East River shutdown plan and demanding feds step in before commuters are left stranded and steaming.

In a fiery letter to US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy Monday, Adams called Amtraks proposal to shutdown a train tunnel from Queens to Manhattan  which was approved by the MTA  a misstep that could derail service for millions of commuters and leave the entire system exposed to shutdown risks during the three-year project.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Amtrak has refused to listen to reason, Hizzoner fumed, pointing out Amtrak is ignoring a more sensible fix to do the work on nights and weekends instead of gutting daytime capacity, which Adams said makes no sense whatsoever.

During the three-year $1.6 billion project, workers will rehabilitate two tunnels that run from Queens into Manhattan. Amtrak plans to fully close the first tunnel May 9. Mike Guillen/NY Post Design

Adams demanded federal intervention before the tunnel doors slam shut this Friday. A spokesperson for the US Department of Transportation did not immediately respond to The Post on Tuesday.

The mayor joins a growing chorus of politicians  including Gov. Kathy Hochul, Rep. Mike Lawler and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman  all begging Amtrak to hit the brakes on the plan over concerns it will force the MTA, Amtrak and New Jersey Transit trains to operate on fewer tracks, leading to train delays.

Adams also argued Amtraks full-speed-ahead plan could leave Queens and Long Island riders stranded.

Passengers are worried there will be train delays throughout the three-year reconstruction project. Getty Images

Adams wants the federal government to intervene. Paul Martinka

Instead of doing the logical, least disruptive thing  keeping one tunnel open during the day, including rush hours, and doing repairs over time, at night and on weekends  Amtrak has decided to close that one tunnel and start repairs from scratch, immediately causing significant service limitations and potentially jeopardizing train service altogether, Adams said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And Adams hit back at claims from Amtrak President Roger Harris that the century-old tubes beneath the East River are so damaged from 2012s Superstorm Sandy that a full closure is necessary. Adams said engineers at London Bridge Associates confirmed a phased approach is possible for the $1.6 billion East River Tunnel rehabilitation  though more costly.

Adams did not say what the increased costs would be in his letter.

A spokesperson for Amtrak did not immediately respond to an inquiry from The Post Tuesday, but Harris last week accused the MTA and Gov. Hochul of spinning the story by blaming Amtrak for the disastrous service plan  even though the MTA approved the plan in October 2023.

Amtrak President Roger Harris said fully closing the East River tunnel is necessary so workers can reconstruct power, signal, track and structural systems. Amtrak

The MTA Board surprised Amtrak execs by passing a resolution condemning its continuous outage plan at a board meeting last Wednesday  especially since MTA employees had been closely working with Amtrak staffers on the plan all along, an Amtrak engineer told The Post after the resolution was passed.

Amtrak will only run 10 round trips from Penn Station to Albany instead of the usual 12 during the closures.
NEW YORK (PIX11)  New York City is celebrating its third annual Business Improvement District Day, a partnership between the city and small businesses looking to solve problems and expand opportunities.

The citys 76 business improvement districts encompass more than 25,000 storefronts across the five boroughs. More than $207 million in funding is given to businesses annually.

More Local News

Businesses benefit from navigating things like the citys new trash pick-up rules to outdoor dining permits.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

New York City is home to the largest number of business improvement districts in the nation. The idea is to keep them all thriving and look for opportunities to create new ones.

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 PIX11.
Law enforcement isnt just a job for NYPD recruit Robert Castioni. Its the family business.

I have my cousin, Kevin Gillespie. I have my father. I have an uncle, two uncles, one in Nassau [County], one was in NYPD, Castioni, 28, said. I have multiple cousins, as well. Other than Kevin, all together, its around like nine family members who were in law enforcement. Most [are] retired now. Only two are still active. My mom was not happy about me being a cop initially, but then she came around.

Castioni is one of 612 recruits graduating from the Police Academy on Thursday. His cousin, Gillespie, was shot and killed in the line of duty in the Bronx in 1996, and his father, Robert Castioni, a Homeland Security officer, died recently from a 9/11-related cancer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In other words, its in his blood.

From when I was born, joining law enforcement was always something that was always brought up in family parties, Castioni said. And my family is very close. So a lot of my cousins, I consider brother [and] sisters, and a lot of them were telling stories throughout holidays, and just talking with them. Its always the topic of conversation about how the job was and it always fascinated me.

One name that came up often was Kevin Gillespie, who died before Castioni was born. Gillespie, 33, and his partner had stopped a stolen car in the Bronx, when the men inside opened fire as they approached the vehicle.

One shot struck Gillespie in the shoulder, above his vest. The bullet went straight down his torso and struck several organs. He died an hour later at a local hospital.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gillespie had been on the job for four years.

I never got the privilege to meet him, Castioni said. I was born in 97; he was killed March 96. However, the impact of what happened is something that I knew at a very young age. My father would always tell me stories about when he saw Kevin  how happy he was to finally get on the job and how he was so glad to be a cop. He worked hard, and what happened, happened.

That sense of purpose was reinforced when Castioni was just a child, during the attacks on 9/11.

I do have, as a 3-year-old, vivid memories of seeing it on TV because I knew my father was there, he recalled. Having that fresh in my mind and seeing what happened on TV impacted me. I was lucky that my father came home that day. Years later, now we deal with the repercussions. Sadly, he has passed away from his efforts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When he passed away, all the support we got from everybody was incredible, Castioni continued. And we were lucky enough last year to go to Washington for the National Police Officers Memorial and put his name on the wall. And just seeing that and hearing the names ring out, and seeing [officers] kids younger than me, that really touched me. And then, it was always in the back of my mind to become a police officer, but then it was really, like, I want to do this.

While Castioni waited patiently for his chance to do this, he worked for more than a decade as a bartender in Long Island and Queens.

I met a lot of people, including police officers, he said. Even then, as a bartender, you act as some sort of support for certain people. They need someone to talk to and you help them.

Now, as he prepares to hit the streets, Castioni says he feels his father and cousin with him.

It means the world to carry on their legacy, he said. I know theyre behind me everywhere I go.
HONOLULU (KHON2)  A major upgrade is hitting the streets of Oahu  and it could mean the difference between life and death.

Honolulu launches 2025 Summer Fun program

The city today unveiled a new fleet of ambulances, giving first responders the tools they need to save lives.

The next time someone says, call an ambulance, its one of the 17 new emergency response vehicles that will likely show up.

Never in our history have we had this new of a fleet, said Jim Ireland, Department of Emergency Services Director.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A blessing ceremony was held to mark the arrival of 14 new EMS ambulances, two Crisis Outreach Response and Engagement (C.O.R.E.) units, and a Specialized Community Medicine (SCM) ambulance bus.

This is more than a bunch of trucks. This is about the real stuff, when life gets really scary and people really need help, said Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi.

Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You



You can just see the placards as you go down and look at all the ambulances. Pretty much every community on this island is touched, said Ireland.

Of the fleet, six are brand new, eight ambulances are remounted, which saved the city money. Four of the ambulances come with four-wheel drive. All 14 ambulances are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, optimized storage and safety layouts. The rigs also have decals on the backdoors stating to stay back 500 feet, which is state law.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But even the best equipment means little without trained people to run it, which the EMS Director says is a challenge that is turning around.

Staffing is great. We just had a big hire, we 17 new EMTs. We have about 24 new recruits starting in July so staffing is the best its been in literally about 15 years, said Ireland.

Director Ireland says the new ambulances also address burnout by improving working conditions and reducing the volume of calls per ambulance.

I think the key moving forward is we need less calls per ambulance, especially the downtown units that are running 12, 14, 16 calls in a 12 hour shift, said Ireland. So everything helps, but having a brand new ambulance is one of the things we need to do.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

Ireland praised the city for investing in public safety. He says in the next six months, eight more ambulances are being delivered and the additions mean more coverage for the island.

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.
KEITHVILLE, La. (KTAL/KMSS)  Shortly after 3:30 p.m., firefighters received a call to a home with people inside that had been struck by a fallen oak tree during the severe storm, believed to include a tornado.

Caddo Fire District 4 units were dispatched to the 10300 block of LaLaurie Lane in the Jersey Gold neighborhood in Keithville Parish. CFD4 reported that several residents and pets were inside the home when the tree fell.

Remarkably, no one sustained major injuries. The most harrowing account involved a bedroom occupant who was only feet away from being crushed when the tree crashed through the roof above them, said CFD4.

Storm Damage - Large Oak Tree falls on home nearly trapping residents inside - Keithville - South Caddo Parish (Caddo Fire District 4)

Storm Damage - Large Oak Tree falls on home nearly trapping residents inside - Keithville - South Caddo Parish (Caddo Fire District 4)

Severe Tstorm Watch in effect

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They said personnel responded to multiple homes with reported damage, but no additional injuries have been reported at this time.

For continued updates, follow Caddo Fire District 4 on social media.

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.
They called it a story of an Israel kibbutz that prevented a massacre of its residents in a small and quiet community.

Members of a small agricultural collective community in Israel that survived the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attacks in 2023 shared their harrowing experiences of that day and how they are rebuilding in the midst of the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. Help is coming from Connecticut.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford hosted the nine survivors from Kibbutz Sufa as they spoke on Tuesday at The Emanuel Synagogue in West Hartford. One couple, Zohar Hubara and wife Hadas Grinshpan, lost their son during the attack. Ida Hubara was one of five members of the communitys civil defense guard that held off dozens of terrorists preventing more casualties, Zohar Hubara said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Zohar Hubara spoke tearfully about losing his son, one of the three people from Kibbutz Sufa killed on that day. Zohar Hubara, a volunteer EMS worker, was summoned into action after about two hours into the attack. He found his son on the ground Hubara and tended to him as best as he could before his son died.

Ido Hubara, a development team leader with IBM, was also an Israeli reserve soldier.

He went to find where the terrorists were infiltrating the Kibbutz and the battle started there, Zohar Hubara said. The fight was about four hours, and it started around 9 oclock and at 11 oclock he called. Im a volunteer medic and Im with the national EMS in Israel. I was ready to treat the wounded, but I didnt know it was going to be my own son.

It was a fatal injury. I tried to evacuate to the hospital to have a chance, Zohar Hubara added. I treated him until I understood that I had to stop. I stayed with him for several hours after he died. I didnt want to leave him. But I had to inform the family, his wife and sisters and three children.  One of the sons asked me, Grandpa, why did you come back but daddy didnt?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ido Hubara was 36 years old. At the time of his death, Ido Hubaras son was 5 years old and his two twin daughter were 4. The family has since relocated to a nearby town.

Zohar Hubara said Kibbutz Sufa is on the border of the Gaza Strip, about 1.7 miles away from the border. About 80 families remain displaced since the Oct. 7 attacks.

Hubara said the family has not returned to Kibbutz because it is still a war zone.

Its important that people know what happened, Hubara said. The story of Kibbutz is five brave people (members of the civil defense guard) with four guns that saved a community. It was five people against almost 100 terrorists. They prevented a massacre, and we are here today because of it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Grinshpan said her son did what was expected of him.

He went out fighting and doing what he was raised and educated for, Grinshpan said. It was his inner beliefs. I cant be angry because he went out fighting. He had young kids, he could have stayed home and not fought, but who knows what would have happened if he didnt go out (and fight).

Grinshpan said what happened to her family could happen to anyone anywhere.

People should relate to us as a people and not in a judging way, Grinshpan said. Relate to us as a people and as a community and feel with us and dont feel for us.  The emotional part of rebuilding is very important.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These stories that have strengthened a partnership with The Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford and the Kibbutz, which means gathering in Hebrew. The federation has pledged to give $250,000 per year for the next three years to help the Kibbutz rebuild.

Another survivor, Orly Gemore, told her story about her family hiding in a safe room in their house for 36 hours in complete silence and not having to move because the bulk of the house was destroyed by a missile.

Gemore described Kibbutz Sufa as a small, quiet community that is far away from everything with kids playing outside and people walking barefoot in the grass with people living mostly outside, prior to the attacks.

It was a far cry from what she experienced on Oct. 7, 2023. That day, she was in a first-floor shelter room in her home with her husband, son, daughter and dog.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We heard alarms and when we left the safe room, our second floor, living room and kitchen were all destroyed, Genmore said. There were stones and parts of our ceiling everywhere. We were just a few meters from the damage.

We stayed in the shelter for 36 hours until Sunday evening and it was very difficult. It was frightening, she said. Terrorists were in our neighborhood, and we heard gunshots, and we heard them around our house. We prayed our dog wouldnt bark. There were 30 or 40 dogs in our neighborhood and not one of them barked for two days. If they did, the terrorists would have known where we were. We were silent. We didnt even speak to each other. Thats the hardest. We couldnt even get out to a toilet. That was so hard.

Genmore, who now lives in Ramat Gan in Israel, said the memories of the attack have stuck with her.

Unfortunately, we lost three members of our community that day and its been very hard, Genmore said. If you see us laughing, inside we are still very sad. But we stay strong for our children.  The trauma inside is not going to get better. The war is not ending.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Amit Vaitz, who holds a leadership role in the Kibbutz Sufa community, said she had always been a dreamer, but after the Oct. 7 attacks she has not dreamt. She said the support from West Hartford has meant a lot to her.

We feel how much you care, Vaitz said. It has meant a lot to us over the last year and a half. All I want to say is thank you.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford board chair Jill Dulitsky led the panel with the nine Kibbutz Sufa survivors. David Waren, the president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford said the organization was honored to welcome them to Connecticut.

On Oct. 7, Hamas terrorists stormed their homes, murdering three residents and displacing the rest. Since then, 80 families have been living in temporary housing, working to heal the trauma and rebuild what was lost, Waren said. Tonight is not just about remembering what happened. Its about reaffirming who we are and what we stand for. That in the face of destruction, we choose resilience. That when others look away, we show up.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Waren said after the Oct. 7 attacks, his organization went to work and raised more than $7 million to help those most impacted by the attacks and help rebuild their communities and lives. According to Waren, the funds were channeled to a variety of nonprofits focusing on mental health and basic needs and then to launch a partnership with Kibbutz Sufa.

Waren said the residents of the Kibbutz Sufa are expected to return to their homes in June or July to start rebuilding.
Families of October 7 hostages held in Gaza demanded any new information from the Israeli government after US President Donald Trump said three more captives had died.

As of today, its 21. Three have died. So, this is a terrible situation, Trump said on Tuesday.

The remark was a shock to the families of the hostages.

We demand once again from the Israeli government - if there is new information that has been hidden from us, pass it on to us immediately, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum said on Wednesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The headquarters once again calls on the Prime Minister to stop the war until the last abductee is returned. This is the most urgent and important national task.

Israels public and official position, reiterated on Tuesday by Israels Coordinator for the Captives and the Missing Gal Hirsch, is that 24 hostages are alive. The Hamas terror organization is currently holding 59 hostages, Hirsch said on social media several hours after Trumps comments. 24 of them are on the list of living hostages.

But there have been clear indications that Israel has reason to believe the true number is fewer, even beyond Trumps comments.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu published a video statement in which he made the clearest acknowledgement, yet that Israel believes not all 24 are alive.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We know for certain that there are 21 alive. Theres no argument about this. Theres three where there is doubt about whether they are alive, he said in the prerecorded video. Were not giving up on anyone.

Earlier this week, Netanyahu approved an expansion of the war in Gaza and a plan to force the Palestinian population into a shrinking tract of land in the southern part of the besieged territory. Israel says its military operations are intended to put pressure on Hamas to make a ceasefire agreement, but prospects for an imminent deal are quickly dwindling, and with them the hope of bringing the remaining hostages out soon.

Even before the latest video statement, Netanyahu has recently been careful to say that up to 24 hostages are being held alive in Gaza.

Last week, when Netanyahu said there were up to 24 living, his wife, Sara, interrupted him and said: Fewer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The open mic moment sparked its own outcry from the families of the hostages. If the wife of the prime minister has new information about the kidnapped who were killed, I demand from her to know if my Matan is still alive, or if he was murdered in captivity because your husband refuses to finish the war, Einav Zangauker, the mother of one of the hostages, said on social media.

Israeli officials have said there are grave concerns about three of the hostages but would not say whether Israel knows for certain that they are dead.

Trumps comments strongly suggest otherwise and appear to indicate that Israel has shared sensitive information about the condition of the hostages with the Trump administration.

More than 250 people were taken hostage when Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on Israel on October 7, 2023  sparking the ongoing war in Gaza.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- Councilman Eddie Mitchell hosted a news conference apologizing to the public for his remarks on social media concerning mobile homes.

First of all, I just want to start by saying I apologize, Mitchell said. My remarks hurt some peoples feelings, and we apologize for it. Sometimes we get hung up in the moment, and some people take things the wrong way. Im not here to hurt anybody. I am for the City of Odessa, I am for my district, and I am for downtown Odessa.

At the meeting, the Citys zoning committee decided to table the motion. Mitchell says he supports the plan.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In two weeks when this situation comes up again about the mobile homes. I will be taking the motion to table this problem, Mitchell said. We will let it go away. I want to say this, we still need to communicate, me and the citizens. We still need to communicate what we want for this city. We cant make decisions for ourselves, the council, or ourselves. So, in the future lets communicate. Dont sit back and wait for social media to let you do what you need to do.

There will be another meeting scheduled on this matter on May 27th at Odessa City Hall.

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 Yourbasin.
Workers pack fresh pears at Dongfang Fruit company in Botou, north China's Hebei Province, May 7, 2025. After customs inspection, over 2,500 boxes of fresh pears from Dongfang Fruit company will be exported to Argentina, marking the first export of fresh pears from Hebei Province to the South American country. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

Workers pack fresh pears at Dongfang Fruit company in Botou, north China's Hebei Province, May 7, 2025. After customs inspection, over 2,500 boxes of fresh pears from Dongfang Fruit company will be exported to Argentina, marking the first export of fresh pears from Hebei Province to the South American country. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

Customs officers check boxes of fresh pears in Botou, north China's Hebei Province, May 7, 2025. After customs inspection, over 2,500 boxes of fresh pears from Dongfang Fruit company will be exported to Argentina, marking the first export of fresh pears from Hebei Province to the South American country. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

Workers sort and pack fresh pears at Dongfang Fruit company in Botou, north China's Hebei Province, May 7, 2025. After customs inspection, over 2,500 boxes of fresh pears from Dongfang Fruit company will be exported to Argentina, marking the first export of fresh pears from Hebei Province to the South American country. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

A truck loaded with fresh pears for export leaves Dongfang Fruit company in Botou, north China's Hebei Province, May 7, 2025. After customs inspection, over 2,500 boxes of fresh pears from Dongfang Fruit company will be exported to Argentina, marking the first export of fresh pears from Hebei Province to the South American country. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  With the start of hurricane season less than a month away, experts are urging residents to take proactive steps to protect their families, homes, and belongings.

Carol Friedland, director of the LaHouse Research and Education Center at Louisiana State University, sat down with us to discuss key actions homeowners should take before storms strike.

Everyone has worked so hard for their homes and everything that is in it, Friedland said. Being prepared is important for life-saving measures, keeping your family safe, and keeping your property protected.

Start With the Outside

One of the first steps in hurricane preparation begins outdoors. Friedland recommends inspecting the area around your home for items that could become dangerous projectiles during strong winds.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some of the things that people should be looking at are looking outside the house first for anything that can hit the home, damage the home, she said.

This includes patio furniture, grills, yard decorations, and especially trees. Trees close to the home should be evaluated by an arborist to determine whether trimming or removal is necessary.

Secure Your Home

The next step is to ensure the structural integrity of your home. Check the roof for loose shingles and secure them with roofing cement. Seal any visible holes or gaps around windows, doors, and eaves with caulk to prevent wind-driven rain and reduce the chance of air pressure changes that could lift the roof.

Inspecting around the house for any places that water and wind can enter is crucial, Friedland noted. Water damage causes a lot of issues within the houseit can even cause mold.

Emergency Kits and Plans

Experts recommend having an emergency kit on hand with at least three days worth of food and water, flashlights, batteries, necessary medications, and important documents. Additionally, families should create and practice both evacuation and shelter-in-place plans.

Review Your Insurance

Friedland also urges residents to review their homeowners and flood insurance policies well before any storms appear in the forecast.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Check your homeowners insurance policy, check your flood policy, she said. Make sure that they are enforced and that you understand the limitations.

Taking videos of your home and its contents before a storm hits can help streamline the claims process if damage occurs.

So if something does happen, we know how we will be protected. Maybe what the deductible is that you might need to pay in case you have damage, Friedland said. But really understanding your situation and your personal needs.

Temporary Barriers and Generators

While sandbags and other barriers arent permanent solutions, Friedland said they can help keep water out temporarilyif flooding doesnt become severe. She also pointed to generators as a potentially life-saving investment, but warned of their dangers if used improperly.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you decide to purchase one, make sure to never use them indoors, in garages, or near your home due to dangerous exhaust fumes, she said.

Hurricane season officially begins June 1. Experts say early preparation can make all the difference.

Latest 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 Louisiana First News.
As travel enthusiasts continue to make plans for the summer, the United States Centers for Disease Control has placed the popular destination Fiji on advisory for dengue fever.

What's happening?

Updates from the World Health Organization pointed toward a recent surge in dengue cases in the Western Pacific, as of early April.

Dengue fever, a sometimes-lethal virus carried by mosquitoes, is on the rise in a variety of countries, including Mexico, Canada, the United States, and much of the Caribbean, Latin America, and Southeast Asia, according to Travel and Tour World. The CDC has recommended wariness for all tourists in at-risk areas, and while travel remains officially unrestricted, the increase in dengue cases could take its toll on the tourism industry.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In Fiji, the government has identified several outbreaks in the Western and Central Divisions, some of which have proven deadly. The Central Division alone has recorded over 1,000 dengue cases between January and late March, wrote the Fiji Government, and the latest March uptick "is above the expected [dengue] levels for the same period last year."

"About half the world's population is now at risk for dengue with an expected 100-400 million infections occurring each year," the WHO added.

Why is dengue fever important?

Dengue can lead to flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pains, and nausea, and can prove fatal in severe cases. There is no cure for dengue, although in non-severe cases, acetaminophen and other over-the-counter pain medications can help.

Since the 20th century, dengue outbreaks have only increased. The World Mosquito Program described 2024 as the "worst year for dengue on record."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Based on historical patterns, dengue cases tend to rise after high rainfall and flooding, noted the Fiji Government. As our planet overheats under the duress of the changing climate, erratic weather patterns and extreme drought-flood cycles become more and more common. If we continue to release planet-warming gases into our atmosphere through industrial pollution, landfills, and other forms of pollution, dengue and other vector-borne illnesses will only thrive.

What's being done about dengue fever?

In order to avoid contracting dengue, the CDC has advised travelers to limit mosquito exposure in these at-risk regions of the world.

Researchers are continuing to explore the link between the changing climate and dengue. One study established that unregulated trash accumulation and pollution made dengue cases more likely, as waste-filled shallow water makes for an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes.

By repurposing our waste to keep it out of landfills  and by avoiding overconsumption in the first place  we can mitigate dengue fever while making more eco-conscious choices.

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.
TEXARKANA, Texas (KETK)  The Texarkana Police Department is looking for a suspect identified in a string of burglaries at two oil change businesses in Texas and one in Arkansas.

Houston County Sheriffs Office arrest suspects in connection to death of 16-year-old teen

Mugshot of Jaquavion Williams, courtesy of Texarkana Police Department

Surveillance video from a nearby apartment complex captured two men carrying a safe while running from one of the businesses, Texarkana PD said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Authorities identified one suspect as Jaquavion Williams and issued felony warrants for his arrest. Williams told detectives he would turn himself in, but that did not happen.

Police are asking for those with information about Williams whereabouts to call them at 903-798-3116 or contact Texarkana Area Crime Stoppers at 903-793-STOP.

More than 1,500 without power in East Texas counties due to severe weather

People with information can stay anonymous and possibly earn a $1,000 reward.

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 KETK.com | FOX51.com.
El Camino Fundamental High School officials launched an investigation after racial and anti-Semitic slurs were discovered scrawled on restroom walls in two separate incidents last week, the schools principal said in a letter to families Tuesday.

The graffiti was painted over, and the school began reviewing the incidents to determine who was responsible, Principal Evelyn Welborn said in the letter.

Teachers at the San Juan Unified School District campus will address the matter in classes this week, Welborn wrote, to reinforce expectations for student behavior, promote a respectful learning environment and emphasize the importance of speaking out against hate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

School officials said El Camino remains committed to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment.

Our school community stands for respecting and celebrating the diverse backgrounds of all of our students, the letter said. Any action or language in opposition to this stance will not be tolerated.

El Camino administrators urged anyone with information about the graffiti to contact the school or the Sacramento County Sheriffs Office.
NILES, Ohio (WKBN)  A candidate for Ohio governor stopped in the Mahoning Valley on Wednesday.

Heather Hill met with local Republican Party leaders in Trumbull County, greeting potential voters and answering questions.

Hill is a political newcomer and comes from a military family. She feels that her position as a mother and foster parent gives her a unique perspective that will translate into politics.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Right now, were dealing with a crisis. Were in a housing crisis. Were in a crisis where families are having a hard time putting food on the table. Were in a crisis where our daughters are having to compete against transgender males. We have so many things that were facing right now, and its time for someone to bring common sense back to the governors office, and thats what my plan is, she said.

At this point, she will be squaring off against Vivek Ramaswamy and Attorney General Dave Yost in the Republican primary a year from now.

Meanwhile, Dr. Amy Acton is also in the race as a Democrat.

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.
SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP, Ohio (WJW)  Police in Ohios Springfield Township had an interesting animal encounter this week when they crossed paths with a raccoon holding a meth pipe to its mouth during an arrest.

According to a Facebook post from the department, on the evening of May 5, officers pulled over a vehicle whose owner had an active warrant and a suspended drivers license.

Deadly illness spreading twice as fast in 2025, surpasses 9,000 cases

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The driver, a 55-year-old Akron resident, was detained.

But when an officer walked back to the vehicle, a raccoon named Chewy was sitting in the drivers seat with a meth pipe in its mouth.

(Photo Credit: Springfield Township Police)

Chewy had somehow gotten hold of a glass methamphetamine pipe, leading officers to further inspect the vehicle, the post from the department said.

A search of the vehicle turned up crack cocaine, meth and three used glass meth pipes, police said.

RIP Skype: What to know about your data

Thankfully, Chewy the raccoon was unharmed, and notification was made to the proper authorities to determine that she has the proper paperwork and documentation to own the raccoon, the post continued.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is legal to own a raccoon in the state of Ohio with proper paperwork and permits. In this case, however, Chewy was turned over to the humane society by police.

Chewys owner faces several drug charges and was cited for driving under suspension.

While our officers are trained to expect the unexpected, finding a raccoon holding a meth pipe is a first! police wrote. No raccoons were hurt or injured in this incident. As always, we remain committed to keeping our community safe  no matter what surprises may come our way.

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.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP)  Ohio voters voted on Tuesday to reauthorize a program that will provide $2.5 billion for roads, bridges and other needed local infrastructure projects over the next decade.

State Issue 2 called for the renewal of the Ohio Capital Improvement Program, which was first authorized in 1987. Administered by the Ohio Public Works Commission, it relies on existing state revenues as opposed to raising taxes.

Under the measure, up to $250 million of the total general obligation bonds authorized can be issued each year over 10 years, creating an estimated 35,000 construction jobs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Strong Ohio Communities Coalition, a gathering of business, labor, agriculture and civic organizations supported the measure, which attracted no significant opposition.

Coalition spokesperson Sam Rossi thanked voters and the Ohio General Assembly, which placed the measure on the ballot.

The Ohio Chamber of Commerce said in a statement that it looks forward to witnessing all the improvements roll out and the jobs they create, saying voters recognized the importance of modern, reliable infrastructure to Ohios quality of life and its economic outlook.

Though it was listed on the ballot as Issue 2, Tuesday's ballot measure was the first and only statewide issue to appear. That's the result of a new numbering system approved by state lawmakers after the elections of 2023 and 2024 featured several ballot issues timed close together and called either Issue 1 or Issue 2. Ohio's next statewide ballot question will be labeled Issue 3.
People cast their votes on the first day of early voting at East Point First Mallalieu United Methodist Church on Oct. 15, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Megan Varner/Getty Images)

According to unofficial results, Ohio voters approved a ballot measure Tuesday allowing the state to borrow $2.5 billion to support public works projects. The proposal, known as Issue 2, renews the State Capital Improvement Program  an initiative that has helped local governments fix roads, bridges, sewers and more since the late 1980s.

This is the fourth time voters have approved a 10-year renewal of the program. To fund projects, the state will issue $2.5 billion in bonds, which is a notable increase from the $2 billion approved in the last renewal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lawmakers sent the question to the ballot in the waning days of the previous legislative session, but the idea has not been controversial. A vast array of interest groups representing business, unions, agriculture and local governments all signed on in support. A conservative lawmaker and far-right organizers spoke out against the idea, but there was no organized opposition to the measure.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

In a statement the Strong Ohio Communities Coalition thanked Ohio voters for approving the initiative and lawmakers for putting it on the ballot.

Ohioans understand that our local roads and bridges and other basic infrastructure need ongoing improvement, Sam Rossi, the coalitions spokesman said. Our campaign was bolstered by strong bipartisan support from Ohios elected lawmakers and a broad nonpartisan coalition that included leaders on behalf of business, labor, agriculture, transportation, public safety and local governments.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thanks to our coalitions dedicated work across Ohio for the last few months, he added, voters have once again said Yes to strengthening our local communities by creating jobs and improving local roads and bridges.

Perhaps the most significant concern supporters faced was voter confusion in a low turnout election.

As early voting was beginning, Republican lawmakers in the Ohio House were polishing off a plan to issue $600 billion in bonds for a new Cleveland Browns stadium. Lawmakers included that provision in their state budget proposal. In the run up to Election Day, Issue 2 supporters were working hard to differentiate their local infrastructure bonds from those supporting the Browns.

It appears voters had little problem discerning one from the other. As of 8:20 pm, Yes votes were surpassing No by a nearly 40-point margin, and in Cuyahoga County where the Browns play, Yes was winning by a more than 3-to-1 margin.

This story will updated.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
A 55-year-old Akron woman was arrested May 5 and charged with multiple drug offenses after a raccoon was discovered in her vehicle holding a meth pipe in its mouth, Springfield Township police posted on Facebook.

Officers initially conducted a traffic stop at about 7:15 p.m. after identifying a vehicle whose owner had both an active warrant and a suspended driver's license.

After officers detained the driver, police then discovered a raccoon named "Chewy" sitting in the driver's seat with a meth pipe in its mouth, police reported. Officers further inspected the vehicle after that discovery and ended up finding a "bulk amount" of meth, crack cocaine and three used glass meth pipes.

Springfield Township police say they discovered a raccoon named Chewy sitting in the driver's seat with a meth pipe in its mouth when they were conducting a traffic stop May 5, 2025.

The woman was charged with possession of drugs, three counts of drug paraphernalia possession and was also cited for driving under suspension. She was turned over to Cuyahoga Falls Police on her active warrant. Additional charges related to crack cocaine possession will be present to the Grand Jury as BCI lab results are pending, police said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The raccoon was reportedly unharmed, and authorities were notified to determine that the woman in fact had the proper documentation to own the raccoon.

Springfield Township police say they discovered a raccoon named Chewy sitting in the driver's seat with a meth pipe in its mouth after they detained the driver during a traffic stop May 5, 2025.

"While our officers are trained to expect the unexpected, finding a raccoon holding a meth pipe is a first!" the post said.

Reporter Anthony Thompson can be reached at ajthompson@gannett.com, or on Twitter @athompsonABJ

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Ohio woman charged after pet raccoon found with meth pipe in its mouth
A convicted murderer who avoided execution during the Biden administration is a step closer to being put to death by lethal injection at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary.

John Fitzgerald Hanson, 61, lost his request for clemency May 7 after apologizing to the families of two murder victims.

"I would bring them back if I could," he said via a video link from the penitentiary in McAlester. "I am not an evil person."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board voted 3-2 to deny clemency.

He will be executed June 12 unless a federal judge grants a stay. The vote at his clemency hearing means Gov. Kevin Stitt cannot commute Hanson's sentence to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

The governor could only have acted if the board had recommended clemency.

The Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board voted 3-2 on May 7 to deny clemency for death row inmate John F. Hanson.

What to know about John Fitzgerald Hanson's case

Hanson faces execution for murdering Mary Agnes Bowles after kidnapping her from the parking lot of a Tulsa mall on Aug. 31, 1999.

Hanson and an accomplice, Victor Miller, wanted the retired banker's car for a robbery spree. The victim was 77. She was kidnapped after walking at the Promenade Mall for exercise.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hanson shot her four to six times in a ditch near Owasso after the accomplice killed a dirt pit owner, Jerald Thurman, according to trial testimony. The dirt pit owner had spotted them on his property and had planned to lock them in.

Ironically, the stolen car broke down after they went to a motel.

Hanson was transferred to Oklahoma on March 1, six weeks after President Donald Trump returned to office and signed a sweeping executive order "restoring" the death penalty

He was serving a life sentence, plus 82 years, at the U.S. Penitentiary in Pollock, Louisiana, for federal crimes involving the robbery spree. He had been set for execution in 2022 but the Biden administration refused to move him.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

President Joe Biden opposed capital punishment, promising during his 2020 campaign "to work to pass legislation to eliminate the death penalty at the federal level, and incentivize states to follow the federal governments example.

Hanson did not testify at his 2001 murder trial or at a resentencing trial in 2006. His attorneys said at the clemency hearing that he maintains he was not the shooter.

"There is significant evidence that Victor Miller, Johns dominating co-defendant, was the person who shot both Mary Bowles and Jerald Thurman," the attorneys told the board in their written request for clemency.

Mary Bowles

In his brief remarks at the clemency hearing, Hanson blamed what happened on his lack of decisiveness and fear. "I was caught in a situation I couldn't control. Things were happening so fast," he said. "I can't change the past. And I would if I could."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At the 2001 trial, a Tulsa County juror chose death as Hanson's punishment for the retired banker's murder. Jurors chose life in prison without the possibility of parole for the dirt pit owner's murder.

In 2006, a second Tulsa County jury again voted for a death sentence for the retired banker's murder. The Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals had ordered the resentencing.

In asking for mercy, Hanson's attorneys said he has been diagnosed as autistic and was manipulated by Miller.

Miller, 62, is now serving life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murders after death sentences were thrown out on appeal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Attorney General Gentner Drummond asked the board to hold Hanson accountable for his actions.

"The Biden administration protected this monster from justice for too long. Now is the time for him to atone for the pain and suffering he has wrought," Drummond said.

Bowles' niece, Sara Parker Mooney, told the board she was disappointed that partisan politics at the federal level became involved when Oklahoma sought to execute Hanson in 2022.

"I am thankful for the recent presidential executive order which facilitated this proceeding today," she said.

Death penalty opponents have packed past clemency hearings. Only a few showed up for Hanson's hearing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Among those present was Don Heath, chair of the Oklahoma Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty. We heard that John Hanson is a changed man, a responsible and trustworthy member of his prison community and that he expresses remorse for the senseless murder of Mary Bowles," Heath said after the vote.

Hanson is complaining in federal court in Muskogee that his transfer was done in violation of the law. He is asking a federal judge to stay his execution so his challenge can proceed "in orderly fashion."

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma death row inmate John Fitzgerald Hanson denied clemency
NEW DELHI, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Amid escalating tensions, the Indian Air Force (IAF) will hold large-scale military drills on Wednesday in the western state of Rajasthan, along the international border with Pakistan, local media reports said Tuesday.

"The drills will begin at 9:30 p.m. (local time) on Wednesday and end around five-and-a-half hours later. Flights departing or landing at the airport close to the border will be suspended," a New Delhi-based television news channel NDTV said, quoting a NOTAM, or Notice to Airmen, issued Tuesday evening.

Another media report said a two-day mega military exercise will involve all the frontline fighter jets, including Rafale, Su-30 and Jaguar aircraft.

Separately, states are scheduled to conduct mock drills on Wednesday to evaluate civil defence preparedness. Officials said a civil defence exercise and rehearsal across the 244 categorized civil defence districts will be organised.

According to state-run broadcaster All India Radio (AIR), the mock drill will assess the effectiveness of air raid warning systems, the operationalization of hotline or radio communication links with the IAF, besides testing the functionality of control rooms.

"The exercise also includes training of civilians and students on civil defence aspects to protect themselves in the event of a hostile attack. Besides the provision of crash blackout measures, provision for early camouflaging of vital installations and update of the evacuation plan and its rehearsal are also included in the mock drill," the broadcaster said.

The war games are being conducted amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan over last month's attack in which gunmen killed 26 people in Baisaran area of Pahalgam town, about 89 km east of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir.

New Delhi blames Islamabad for supporting the gunmen behind the attack, a charge denied by it.

The Indian government on Wednesday confirmed carrying out air strikes on nine identified "terrorist-training camps" located in the Pakistan-controlled Kashmir.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally monitored the air strikes, according to Indian media reports.

The air strikes were carried out under "Operation Sindoor," which was dedicated to the women whose husbands were killed in the Pahalgam area of the Indian-controlled Kashmir on April 22, the reports said.

"Altogether nine sites have been targeted. Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India had demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution," India's Ministry of Defence said in a press release.

The director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations, the media wing of the Pakistan Army, said that at least eight civilians, including a child, were killed, 35 others injured and two missing after India fired missiles at multiple locations in the Pakistan-controlled Kashmir.

Pakistan has shot down five Indian fighter jets in retaliation for overnight airstrikes conducted by India at multiple locations within Pakistan, the country's defence minister said early Wednesday.

Pakistan's foreign office called it an unprovoked and blatant act of aggression, denouncing the strikes as a "flagrant violation of the UN charter, international law, and established norms of inter-state relations."

"India's reckless action has brought the two nuclear-armed states closer to a major conflict," said the foreign office, emphasizing that Pakistan reserves the right to respond "at a time and place of its choosing." 
Scott Burleson

JASPER COUNTY, Mo.  A Wyandotte man pleads guilty for his role in a Jasper County homicide.

Seth Langford

Wednesday morning, Scott Burleson, 31, pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree murder. Hes scheduled to be sentenced in the case on July 14.

Scott Burleson in custody after manhunt

That charge was filed in connection to the March 2, 2024 death of Seth Langford, 36, of Carl Junction.

Jasper County sheriff deputies responded to an address near 7th Street and State Line Avenue for a report of assault. When they got there, they found Langford suffering from a stab wound. Langford died later from his wounds at a local hospital.

Paul Phillips

Burleson pleads not guilty to murder, weapons charges

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Authorities arrested Burleson almost three weeks later.



Paul Phillips, 37, of Seneca is also charged in this case. Hes scheduled to be in court next month for robbery and multiple weapon charges.



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.
A Welch, Oklahoma, motorcyclist received a suspended sentence and was placed on probation following a double fatality collision that occurred while he and another motorcyclist attempted to flee from police on North Main Street.

Colton Goddard, 20, pleaded guilty Tuesday to a charge of resisting arrest or detention on Sept. 2, 2023.

Goddard, then age 18, and Taran Morris, 20, of Miami, Oklahoma, were driving motorcycles north on Main Street at speeds up to 80 mph or more, police said, when they fled from an officer who attempted to stop them at the intersection of 10th and Main streets. Police reported that the motorcyclists were still traveling at high speed when Morris bike crashed into a third motorcycle operated by Mark A. McGowen, 60, of Miami, Oklahoma, as McGowen pulled out of the Caseys convenience store at 403 N. Main St.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Both McGowen and Morris were killed in the crash. Goddard then stopped and was taken into custody.

Police said initially that two counts of murder were being sought against Goddard while an investigation by the citys major crash team remained ongoing. But Prosecuting Attorney Theresa Kenney said at the time that her office was filing a felony count of resisting arrest.

Goddard appeared Tuesday before Judge David Mouton and withdrew a not guilty plea under a plea agreement submitted by Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Scott Watson and defense attorney Phil Glades.

The charge is a Class E felony under Missouri law, which is the least severe level of felony offense. Maximum penalties in that class are four years in prison, one year in county jail, and a fine of up to $10,000.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Goddard told police the night of the crash that he attempted to evade being stopped by fleeing at high speed because he did not have a drivers license.

The judge accepted the plea and conducted a plea hearing.

The judge suspended Goddards sentence and placed him on probation for five years. The probation is to be supervised by the Missouri Board of Probation and Parole, according to the court record.

The judge attached a special condition to the probation order that Goddard will not seek a motorcycle endorsement on his drivers license. He also is restricted from riding a motorcycle on a public street during the probation.

Goddard also is to pay court costs of $338.50 plus incarceration costs.
Mental Health Commissioner Allie Friesen speaks at a meeting April 17 at the state Capitol with House lawmakers reviewing her agency's finances. (Photo by Emma Murphy/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  Behavioral health providers contracted with Oklahomas mental health department are no longer being reimbursed for some services provided and cant sustain the cost, an industry advocate said.

Green Country Behavioral Health Services has not been reimbursed by the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services for some specific services this fiscal year, said Joy Sloan, its chief executive officer. Sloan said Green Country has inexplicably not been paid for $5.2 million in requests since the 2024 fiscal year. She said these are costs that have been historically reimbursed to help cover additional costs related to caring for indigent patients.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sloan operates a certified community behavioral health center, known as a CCBHC, which provides comprehensive substance abuse and mental health treatment to vulnerable people. Those health centers are supposed to receive enhanced Medicaid reimbursement rates.

An analysis provided by Sloan shows that eight Oklahoma providers have claimed almost $150 million in reimbursements in budget years 2024 and 2025. The analysis shows the providers received $8.7 million in reimbursements in fiscal year 2024, but were owed about $62.3 million. In the current budget year, theyve sought $86.7 million, but have received nothing.

While providers werent historically reimbursed for 100% of these requests, Sloan said there was a drop in what was reimbursed last fiscal year.

A graph from a fact sheet created by an Oklahoma behavioral health provider shows changes over time in reimbursements from the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services for services provided by eight certified community behavioral health centers operated by members of the Alliance of Mental Health Providers of Oklahoma . (Provided and created by Family and Childrens Services)

Mental Health Commissioner Allie Friesen, said the agency is investigating why the payments have not been distributed. She said her agency has been in contact with a few partners since Monday afternoon and is actively working with the Oklahoma Health Care Authority to investigate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We are not currently aware of any reason why these payments should not have been distributed and are committed to resolving the issue swiftly, she said in a statement.

Friesens agency is facing several investigations following reports of financial disarray and a $43 million shortfall. Friesen admitted to lawmakers Monday that her agency needs help finding answers on the agencys finances and budget.

Traditionally, certified community behavioral health centers have been eligible for additional compensation beyond their contracted monthly rate. For example, Sloan said, a provider with a $2 million annual contract receives one-twelfth of that amount every month and any expense for additional services beyond that falls into a pended services category, which is submitted for reimbursement.

Sloan said she had not been contacted by the mental health department as of Tuesday afternoon. She said shes worked at Green Country for 34 years and has been in the CEO role for 15 of those.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Heather Helberg, CEO of HOPE Community Services in Oklahoma County, also said Tuesday afternoon that she hadnt been contacted about the reimbursements for services, but had been in contact with Friesen on Monday about a separate payment issue, outcome-based payments.

Helberg said shes worked at HOPE for seven years.

We have done so much to divert clients from jails and hospitals, she said. No one wants to go back.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE

Between the 2020 and 2023 fiscal years, HOPE was reimbursed 85% to 95% by the state, Helberg said. In the 2024 fiscal year, its reimbursement rate dropped to 23%.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This lack of payment equates to $2 million in the 2024 fiscal year and $1.7 million and counting for the current fiscal year, she said.

I would just love to ask the question, Would we expect any other field to absorb several million dollars in free care and services? she said. Even if we are charities or nonprofits, we have to get paid for services rendered. Its not sustainable for us to keep absorbing these costs. We are the safety net, and if it continues, it will break us and our clients are the ones that suffer without care.

Sloan also serves as the president of Alliance of Mental Health Providers of Oklahoma, a coalition of eight certified community behavioral health centers. She said the other members are also experiencing issues receiving payments.

Family and Childrens Services, a Tulsa area provider, is another member of the group. Without the pended payments, reimbursement is unbalanced and results in overwhelming deficit, according to a fact sheet from the agency provided to Oklahoma Voice.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Between the 2023 and the 2025 fiscal year, the number of community behavioral health center clients grew 13%, and the number of uninsured clients grew 102%, the document shows. Historically, about 55% of those reimbursement costs were covered by the mental health department on average. Those reimbursements dropped to 14% last fiscal year.

An increase in Medicaid clients would be needed for the centers to break even if the state does not contribute, the document said.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

Sloan said her operations have been able to continue because Green Country has been good stewards of its funds, but shes spent time at the state Capitol talking to legislators about the problem. She said under previous administrations at the mental health department, there used to be more regular, monthly meetings with agency leadership.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Demand for the services is growing, but payments are not, she said. Green Country, which serves Muskogee and McIntosh counties, serves 5,000 Oklahomans every year, Sloan said.

I sure expect to give away services to the community, which historically has been anywhere between $300,000 and $600,000, she said. Millions is too much to bear.

Most of these services are for uninsured, indigent populations. Without payment, Sloan said her agency might have to halt these services.

The last thing I want to do is have to lay off staff and quit serving people because it affects my friends in the community, she said.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  Building materials manufacturer Oldcastle APG, a CRH company, is growing its South Carolina footprint with a new operation in Lancaster County, bringing 30 new jobs to the area.

One of the largest manufacturers in the architectural products industry, Oldcastle APG offers a range of outdoor brands and solutions for residential and commercial spaces. The company has over 230 facilities across North America, including nine in South Carolina.

Located at 1683 Rock Hill Highway in Lancaster, Oldcastle APGs new facility will manufacture residential and commercial concrete building and hardscape products.

Oldcastle APG is committed to offering best-in-class outdoor living solutions to customers in South Carolina and across North America. The addition of the masonry facility in Lancaster County to our footprint further expands our ability to deliver in high-demand markets, bringing more residential and commercial projects to life that help people Live Well Outside. Oldcastle APG President Tim Ortman

Operations are expected to be online in the second quarter of 2026.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Five months after a KOIN 6 News investigation, the Portland Ombudsmans Office called out Portland Fire & Rescue for fire safety issues at a relatively new Habitat for Humanity complex.

The Ombudsmans Office initially spoke to KOIN 6 News about their investigation the day after the KOIN 6 News investigation detailed the issues in late December 2024.

The Cherry Blossom Townhomes near Mall 205 in Portland were approved at the last minute despite fire inspector warnings about code violations and without a required appeals process, the Ombudsmans report determined.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lack of documentation is problematic, Deputy Ombudsman Tony Green told KOIN 6 News. Its caused a lot of consternation for people whove been looking at this. They dont know why it was approved after all these red flags were raised.

Potential fire access issues

Green said his biggest concern is missing fire lane signs and rampant parking that blocks fire truck access.

I am surprised that the Fire Bureau isnt acknowledging the problems with the parking, Green said. And the other problem that theyre not acknowledging is that the ground ladders do not meet best practices with the height of the building, and so they need to have an aerial access in there.

He said the buildings exceed the height (30 feet) that requires a 26-foot-wide access road or an automatic sprinkler system, neither of which was implemented.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Firefighters determined that some of the buildings were too tall to follow best practices for ground ladders, the memo stated.

That is not the way firefighters want to climb up on top of that building. They want the ladder truck, and so you should be addressing this, Green said.

Plus, parking on the access road and sidewalks narrows the available width to 17 feet, he said, obstructing space needed for aerial ladder trucks to fully deploy stabilizing braces.

Turnaround requirement possibly overlooked

The investigation stated the dead-end access road may exceed 300 feet in length, which could require a turnaround under local interpretations of the Fire Code.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

PF&R accepted a Y shaped fork as a substitute, but again, the ombudsman found no written record that explains this decision. This kind of documentation is also required by code.

Inconsistent and delayed communication

A homeowner raised safety concerns in Oct. 2023 then again in July 2024, but the deputy ombudsmans investigation found PF&R took months to respond, offered conflicting information, and failed to follow through on promised communications.

Homeowners received mixed messages about whether parking changes were needed and never received the formal guidance they were promised, Green said.

I dont feel safe at all, but I feel less safe than ever because the fire department, its their job and their duty to keep us safe, and they failed to do that, said homeowner Lacey Sutton.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sutton said she turned to the Portland Ombudsmans Office last summer after feeling stonewalled by PF&R.

Even after being alerted to his findings, Green told KOIN 6 News that the fire officials had remained in denial.

That was disappointing that they, at least at this point, have not acknowledged the problems and have not embraced a leadership role in determining and helping this place move towards the safest possible arrangement, Green said. What I had hoped to accomplish was for the Fire Bureau to take some responsibility for the situation and help guide the homeowners association, Green said.

In his memo released early Wednesday, Green recommends:

PF&R provide written documentation explaining how firefighters can respond safely to emergencies at the site

Give written recommendations on parking restrictions and any needed safety improvements

Hold a public meeting to allow residents to ask questions and receive direct answers from fire officials.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We feel confident that we are going to respond aggressively and mitigate an emergency to save life, property in the environment as best possible. And we feel comfortable that we can do so in this case, said Rick Graves, a PF&R spokesperson.

While PF&R has committed to holding a public meeting, Green said Fire Marshal Kari Schimel disregarded his first two recommendations in her response letter.

Their response at this point is not responsive. Theyre not acknowledging a conflict in two of the responses. Thats a problem, Green said.

He hopes his public display of disappointment prompts more accountability within PF&R.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ultimately, I hold the city responsible for the process. The city gets to decide whether to approve it or not. The city is responsible. Its their job to determine whether plans meet the code, and theyre the ones who approve this. So that is who I think is responsible for anything that was done wrong, Green said.

As for the homeowners, they said theyre also still waiting for the PF&R to own up to their missteps in this fire inspection process.

They are not doing it because it makes them look bad and they dont want the liability. They dont want to admit that everything was passed without any conditions just right before Habitats deadline over the phone, Sutton said.

KOIN 6 reached out to Habitat for Humanitys CEO Steve Messinetti about the memo that was released today. He said theyre going to join the public meeting and work with the fire marshal to facilitate the recommendations. Habitats statement reads in part:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We were pleased that the report didnt find any code concerns, and that it states Fire officials have expressed confidence that they can respond to an emergency and that homeowners are safe.

To be clear, the Ombudsman told KOIN 6 he does have code and fire safety concerns, namely parking and the need for the bigger aerial fire truck to have access.

Below is PF&Rs initial full response to the Ombudsmans memo:

Cherry Blossom Response LetterDownload

Later in the afternoon, Kari Schimel updated her response letter saying:

We appreciate the diligent investigation outlined in the Ombudsmans report regarding the fire

safety concerns at Cherry Blossom Townhomes. We recognize the value of the findings and are

committed to addressing concerns. That said, the role of Portland Fire & Rescue in the

construction process ends once the design is approved and have no authority on occupancy nor

parking. The occupancy in question falls under private residences and are not inspectable

properties which limits our authority for further change of the approved design and

construction of the townhouses and are disappointed to be shouldering a burden that lies

elsewhere.

Stay with KOIN 6 News as this story develops.

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.
Charlie Hopkins, one of the last living to have served time in Alcatraz, San Franciscos notorious island prison, has dismissed President Donald Trumps order that the jail be reopened.

I dont think he wants to reopen it, hes trying to draw attention to the crime rate, Hopkins, now in his 90s, told ABC7 New York.

When I was on Alcatraz, a rat couldnt survive.

Hopkins, a native of Jacksonville, Florida, who was hailed in his youth as a Golden Gloves boxer, was sentenced to 17 years behind bars in 1952 for his part in a robbery ring responsible for a string of carjackings.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He served 11 years in jail  three of which were spent at Alcatraz, where he was known as Inmate #1186  before reforming and finding work as a carpet fitter and then as a hospital security guard.

Former Alcatraz inmate Charlie Hopkins was sentenced to 17 years behind bars in 1952 for his part in a robbery ring responsible for a string of carjackings (Asocial Media/YouTube)

Later in life, Hopkins became a pen pal of the infamous Boston gangster James Whitey Bulger, another Alcatraz veteran, a story he shared in his memoir Hard Time (2019) and in the TV series Alcatraz: The Last Survivor (2020).

Despite Hopkins scepticism, the president appeared to be in deadly earnest when he posted on Truth Social over the weekend: REBUILD, AND OPEN ALCATRAZ!

For too long, America has been plagued by vicious, violent, and repeat Criminal Offenders, the dregs of society, who will never contribute anything other than Misery and Suffering.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When we were a more serious Nation, in times past, we did not hesitate to lock up the most dangerous criminals, and keep them far away from anyone they could harm. Thats the way its supposed to be.

He added that he would be directing the Bureau of Prisons, the Department of Justice, the FBI and Homeland Security to reopen a substantially enlarged and rebuilt ALCATRAZ, to house Americas most ruthless and violent Offenders.

The former Alcatraz penitentiary seen in the San Franscio Bay (AP)

The California maximum security penitentiary was opened in 1934 but closed again in 1963 after it was found to be three times more expensive to run than other jails and too costly to maintain, not least because of the extreme weather it was exposed to from the Pacific.

The facility has since enjoyed a second act as a lucrative tourist attraction, with visitors drawn by its reputation acquired during its three decades of service, when it housed legendary criminals such as Al Capone, George Machine Gun Kelly, Creepy Alvin Karpis, and Robert Stroud, a psychopathic amateur ornithologist known as the Birdman of Alcatraz.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One of the first to reject Trumps suggestion was former House speaker Nancy Pelosi, a San Francisco resident, who wrote on X: The presidents proposal is not a serious one.

Chicago mob boss Al Capone, arguably Alcatrazs most famous inmate (Getty)

On Tuesday, Florida Democrat Rep. Jared Moskowitz ridiculed Trump in the House by calling the plan just another distraction to divert attention away from the tariffs, rising prices, or the struggle on Main Street.

Moskowitz went on to suggest that the president had gotten the idea from watching reruns of old movies on late-night television.

Perhaps he was watching Escape from Alcatraz, he suggested, referring to Don Siegels 1979 Clint Eastwood hit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The funny part about that is that it was actually on television in South Florida. It was on PBS South Florida over the weekend when Trump was at Mar-a-Lago. In fact, he made his announcement just hours after it aired.

The congressmans reference to the scheduling is correct.

Alcatraz has enjoyed a revival as a tourist attraction since its closure in 1963 (AP)

A number of tourists visiting the prison this week sounded out by ABC were equally withering, with one commenting: I think its one of the stupidest ideas I've ever heard in my life.

It would cost billions to refit this building. Its not even earthquake proof.

But U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, for one, has defended the idea, telling Larry Kudlow on Fox Business the venture would yield cost savings, without explaining how, and insisting it would serve as a powerful deterrent to would-be criminals.
This article may contain affiliate links that Yahoo and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

In early April, President Donald Trump announced broad tariffs aimed at pursuing reciprocity to rebuild the economy and restore national and economic security. The goal is to strengthen the United States position in the global economy, according to The White House. Since then, a bunch of those tariffs have gone into effect (including a baseline 10% tariff on nearly every country and as high as 145% on select items from China), while others have been introduced, paused, or suspended.

The reality is that a lot of the food we eat isnt grown or produced here in the U.S. Step into any grocery store and youll see produce, pantry staples, and meat imported from Mexico, Canada, and even Australia. With tariffs looming over grocery stores, the question isnt if things will change, but when  and how severe those changes will be.

Advertisement Advertisement

As a groceries editor and seasoned shopper, I am acutely attuned to changing grocery prices and shortages (I mean, eggs are still hard to come by!). Ive started stocking up on these five staples to prepare for potential price hikes from one of the most reliable bulk retailers: Costco.

1. Grains

The Kirkland Signature Thai Hom Mali is a mainstay in my weekly meal rotation. I live on my own, so one hefty, 25-pound bag will last me a few months and costs $17.99. This rice is imported from Thailand (a lot of rice in the U.S. is grown and imported from Asia). With a 36% tariff tacked on, my rice is expected to go up at least $6 or $7 dollars per bag. Thats money Id rather not spend if I can avoid it.

Costco also imports a lot of its pasta directly from Italy, including my go-to six-pack of Garofalo Organic Pasta, which currently costs about $11. That price, too, is expected to increase in the coming months. Unopened pasta can last for a few years in the pantry, so Ill be getting an extra pack (or two) at this rate while I can.

2. Coffee

Brazil, Vietnam, and Columbia produce a staggering 62% of the worlds coffee, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Each of these countries have their own respective tariffs incoming, ranging from 10% (Brazil) all the way up to a steep 46% (Vietnam). This will inevitably cause coffee beans at Costco to increase in price  so to prepare, my parents have been buying a few extra bags during each shopping trip (their favorite is the Kirkland Signature Dark Roast Colombian Coffee!).

3. Wine

Like I said, theres still a lot of uncertainty around tariffs. But one thing I do know is that a lot of really good Costco wine comes from Europe (yes, that includes those $20 bottles of Kirkland Signature Champagne). With an expected 20% tariffs on products from the European Union, chances are those red, whites, and roses will be a bit more expensive. Ill be stocking up on a few bottles of Valminor Albarino Rias Baixas, a great under-$20 bottle from Spain and Portugal ASAP.

4. Cheese

The 20% tariff on European products wont only affect wine. You can add a variety of cheeses to your list of hmm, maybe I should grab this sooner than later items. Your favorite wedges, wheels, and blocks like Presidents Brie or Kirklands Signature Gouda Cheese (imported from Holland) might be a few bucks higher before you know it. Now, its hard to stockpile soft cheeses like Brie, but sturdy Gouda can last up to a year unopened.

5. Cooking Oil

The United States imports large amounts of cooking oils (like avocado and olive oil) from other countries. Avocado oil is primarily produced in Mexico and New Zealand  two countries facing 25% and 10% tariffs, respectively. Olive oil, which is primarily produced in the Mediterranean basin of Italy, Spain, and Greece, is also subject to a 10% tariff. If youre running low on that two-liter jug of Italian-made Extra Virgin Olive Oil, you know what to do on your next run.

Advertisement Advertisement

Alternatively, you could opt for cooking oils produced in the U.S. In fact, Costco dropped an excellent Kirkland Signature California Extra Virgin Olive Oil just last year. Just remember: Domestic products, like this one, wont be hit with tariffs, but supply could still become an issue.

What are you stocking up on? Tell us about it in the comments below.

The Weekly Checkout

Sign up for The Weekly Checkout to get the most up-to-date grocery news, tips, and highlights.

Subscribe to The Kitchn!

Further Reading

The One Cookware Brand That Gordon Ramsay Cant Stop Talking About

Reeses Just Launched a Limited-Edition Peanut Butter Cup, and It Tastes 4x Better than the Original

Le Creuset Launched a Pan Thats Perfect for Everything from Stews to Stir-Fry  and Its Already on Sale

Sign up for The Kitchn's Daily newsletter to receive our best recipes, posts, and shopping tips in your inbox.
PECOS COUNTY, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- The Texas Department of Public Safety has confirmed that an officer involved shooting occurred Tuesday in Pecos County.

Officials said a Pecos County Sheriffs deputy was conducting a traffic stop in Iraan when they were shot. The suspect involved ran from the scene but was later found on US 190, about eight miles east of Iraan. The suspect, who has not been identified, was shot and killed, a DPS spokesperson said.

The injured deputy, who has also not been publicly identified, was taken to a hospital in Midland and is said to be stable.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As is the case with all officer involved shootings, the Texas Rangers have taken over the 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 Yourbasin.
UPDATE 11:10 p.m.: Authorities say one person was killed in the shooting on Vineville Street.

According to Muscogee County Coroner Buddy Bryan and the Columbus Police Department, David Escobar, 17, was pronounced dead at 6:13 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6.

Police say Escobar died after suffering from a gunshot wound. EMS arrived to the scene, but were unable to revive him.

The shooting took place around 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6, in the 1000 block of Vineville Street.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

CPDs Violent Crimes Unit took lead on this investigation.

The department is asking anyone with information about the case to call Cpl. A. Fairbanks at 706-225-4381. CPD says tips can be submitted anonymously.

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL)  One person has been injured in a shooting in the 1000 block of Vineville Street, police say.

According to CPDs social media, two people are in custody.

Check back with WRBL for more updates.

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.
LIMESTONE COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT)  The Limestone County Coroner has identified the person killed in a wreck on I-65 Tuesday.

Coroner Mike West said a man was pronounced dead on the scene after the wreck near Piney Chapel Road. He was later identified as 22-year-old William D. Hardrick.

Authorities asking for publics help to identify man killed in Lawrence County crash

West told News 19 that Hardrick was driving southbound on I-65 when the vehicle he was in left the roadway, hit a fence and then began flipping over. He said the vehicle eventually came to a rest on Piney Chapel Road near the interstate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency arrested 31-year-old John Walter McAdams and charged him with murder, as well as two counts of leaving the scene of an accident with injury and one count of driving under the influence.

According to court documents, McAdams created a great risk of death to a person and did thereby cause the death of William Deon Hardrick.

Austin Peay State University stated that Hardrick, originally from Adamsville, was a senior football player at the school.

We are truly saddened by the passing of William Hardrick, a new member of our football program and the Austin Peay family, said APSU Vice President and Director of Athletics Gerald Harrison. All of our thoughts and prayers are with the Hardrick Family today. We will do everything we can to support his friends, family, and teammates at this time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

William Hardrick was an exceptional young man, and our team is heartbroken by his loss, said APSU football coach Jeff Faris. He made everyone around him better and has made a real impact both on and off the field. We lift up the Hardrick family in prayer as we grieve this tragic loss with them.

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 coroner said it is not clear at this time what caused the vehicle to leave the roadway.

West said that the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is investigating 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 WHNT.com.
Tourists enjoy their holiday in Fengcheng health and wellness demonstration zone in Jincheng City, north China's Shanxi Province, May 2, 2025. (Xinhua/Chen Zhihao)

TAIYUAN, May 7 (Xinhua) -- During the May Day holiday, wellness tourism gained popularity as a fresh alternative to traditional travel options like cross-border trips and city sightseeing.

Li Yanling from Beijing chose the Fengcheng health and wellness demonstration zone in Jincheng City, north China's Shanxi Province, for a relaxing getaway.

"Popular tourist spots are usually overcrowded, leaving us exhausted. This time, we wanted a trip that rejuvenates both body and mind," he said.

Wellness tourism combines medical services, healthcare, and leisure activities in appealing destinations. Driven by China's aging population and policy support, as well as people's rising health awareness, the sector is expanding rapidly.

The Fengcheng demonstration zone spans 60 square kilometers and features high-end resorts, RV camps, and forest retreats.

"It has already attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors," said Yang Hua, a staff member.

Jincheng has actively promoted wellness tourism, issuing development plans and hosting national industry conferences to explore the integration model of "tourism plus wellness." Beyond traditional hot springs and forest stays, new trends like traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) tourism and meditation retreats are rising.

The Wolong Bay resort in Shanxi's Gaoping City blends wellness with TCM, drawing both domestic and international tourists.

"We organize TCM health lectures to enrich visitors' experiences," said resort manager Li Xueye.

Other areas in China are also capitalizing on this trend. Bama County in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, known as a "longevity haven," draws tourists to enjoy the local healthy lifestyle. Mogan Mountain in east China's Zhejiang Province also builds a rural wellness model with boutique hostels and home-stays.

Backed by national policies like the Healthy China 2030 initiative, wellness tourism thrives, with over 3.39 million related businesses operating nationwide -- 173,000 newly registered in Q1 2025 alone.

While middle-aged and elderly visitors dominate the market, the number of younger participants is increasing.

"This slow-paced wellness holiday was so refreshing, and we'll definitely take more trips like this," Li Yanling said. 
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY)  A woman charged with first-degree murder in connection to a homicide in Virginia Beach spoke to 10 On Your Side from jail Thursday.

According to police, officers were called to the 500 block of Rodney Lane just after 11 a.m. Wednesday for the report of a shooting. When officers arrived, they located a man who had been shot.

The victim, identified as 90-year-old Woodard McClure, was pronounced dead on the scene.

Jennifer Mulligan. Photo courtesy: VBPD

A woman, later identified as Jennifer Mulligan, 43, was taken into custody without incident. Following an investigation, Mulligan was charged with first-degree murder and use of a firearm in commission of a felony.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A preliminary investigation indicated this was a domestic-related incident.

Police said Mulligan was taken into custody without incident and is being held at the Virginia Beach Correctional Center. Neighbors said Mulligan was caring for her 90-year-old father, who was on hospice.

One neighbor who spoke to 10 On Your Side by phone said Mulligan had tried to get help, as it became more difficult to care for her father, and recalled the last time they saw each other.

I noticed right off the bat she was not happy, bubbly, giggly, the neighbor said. She was normally a very bubbly person. She was always laughing a lot, and you could definitely see, like, a complete 180. She did not look happy. She looked miserable.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Her neighbor said she understands what its like taking care of a family member at that age, and wants people to know this case is anything but black and white.

As God is my witness, I do not think that this situation was done to be evil, the neightbor said. I honestly think it was a sad case of somebody that was so overwhelmed and overloaded and they were not getting the help they were begging for, and she snapped.

Mulligan, in a brief interview with 10 On Your Sides Ethan Krauss at the Virginia Beach Correctional Center, said she wanted the public to know this.

Depression is no joke, Mulligan said. My neighborhood, my neighbors, my friends and family, of course, I love and miss them unconditionally.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mulligan was set for a bond hearing Friday morning, but it has been withdrawn.

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.
PRAIRIE DU SAC, Wis. (WFRV)  As part of an ongoing drug investigation in southern Wisconsin, multiple search warrants were conducted, including at a business, a residence, and a storage unit complex that led to one arrest and the seizure of over 300 grams of cocaine.

On April 14, deputies with the Sauk County Sheriffs Office and the Sauk County Drug Task Force conducted three different search warrants in Prairie du Sac as part of an ongoing investigation involving the distribution of cocaine and other drugs.

Wisconsin woman arrested for alleged threats towards Waupun prison employees

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The search warrants were reportedly at a business on 15th Street, a residence on 21st Street, and a storage unit complex on North Street.

During the searches, deputies say that over 300 grams of cocaine, drug paraphernalia, firearms, THC products, and cash were seized. It was also noted that a 41-year-old from Prairie du Sac was arrested.

Joseph Moran was taken into custody with the following charges being referred to the District Attorneys Office:

Possession with intent to deliver cocaine > 40 grams

Possession with intent to deliver THC

Possession of drug paraphernalia

Money laundering

Maintaining a drug trafficking place

Delivery of a controlled substance within 1000 feet of a school

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

19-year-old Chicagoan arrested in Wisconsin on drug charges, possession stolen firearm

The investigation is ongoing. No additional details were 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.
In January, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman stood next to President Trump and the leaders of Softbank and Oracle to announce a $500 million plan to build data centers in the U.S. So far, the mega project, called Stargate, has yet to complete its first planned data center in Abilene, Tex. But that didnt stop OpenAI from touting a new global initiative todaythis time aimed at developing AI infrastructure globally. While the plan, called OpenAI for Countries, is short on details, its long on rhetoric casting both OpenAI and the U.S. as benevolent actors in the face of authoritarian regimes like China.

The company said it wants to spread democratic AI, or AI that protects and incorporates long-standing democratic principles. That includes the freedom for people to choose how they work with and direct AI, the prevention of government use of AI to amass control, and a free market that ensures free competition.

The effort, OpenAI continued, would contribute to broad distribution of the benefits of AI, discourage the concentration of power, and help advance our mission. Partnering closely with the U.S. government, it said, is the best way to advance democratic AI.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

More concretely, the blog post announcing the expanded Stargate said the goal is to build data centers overseas; and provide versions of OpenAIs ChatGPT chatbots that are customized for each countrys language and culture. It also promised to strengthen security and safety of AI and launch national startup funds in individual countries with local funding and OpenAI capital.

The initiative aligns with efforts by the Trump Administration to win what it considers a fierce AI race at all coststo protect the U.S. economy as well as prevail in the geopolitical AI chess game against China. I think its a signal that we understand what is at stake, said Daniel Newman, CEO of analyst firm The Futurum Group in an emailthat is, that future world economic leadership will be decided by AI. He pointed to a recent speech by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, in which he said the U.S. must win AI and quantum, nothing else matters.

To win means gaining soft power through AI, he added, pointing out that Chinese companies have previously used their technology to gain soft power overseas. Over the years, Chinese tech giant Huawei, for example, won a lot of the world trade by winning comms networks and telco, Bessent explained.

Keegan McBride, a senior policy advisor in emerging technology and geopolitics at the Tony Blair Institute, a nonprofit advisory organization, agreed, saying American policymakers have become concerned about Chinas expansive efforts to build digital infrastructure for significant parts of the world. This was particularly concerning after the January release of Chinas DeepSeek R1 reasoning model that was said to perform on par with top U.S. models. It made clear that Chinas AI capabilities were growing fast. Following the release of DeepSeek and other models like Alibabas Qwen, other Chinese models were also deployed worldwide. Since the models were openly available for developers to build on, rather than the closed models released by OpenAI, Google and Anthropic, they have gained huge momentum.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is the U.S. government waking up and reasserting that, when it comes to digital technology, countries should choose the United States as their key partner, he said in an email to Fortune about OpenAIs global initiative. He added that Michael Kratsios, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), recently supported promoting American AI abroad. In a recent speech, he said our industrial might, unleashed at home, and our technical achievements from AI to aerospace, successfully commercialized, can also be powerful instruments of diplomacy abroad and key components of our international alliances."

Apparently one of the key partners in U.S. AI diplomacy is OpenAI, which, in the process of funding AI infrastructure overseas, would also cement its own global soft power as it seeks to expand into a massive multinational corporation. This comes just days after the company bowed to outside pressure by announcing that its nonprofit arm would retain control of its commercial operations. The decision marked a huge reversal for OpenAI, which had originally wanted to restructure itself into more of a conventional business.

The key to OpenAI gaining soft power is a multi-front strategy, according to Pierre-Carl Langlais, cofounder of the Paris-based AI lab Pleias, which focuses on developing open AI models trained on openly-licensed datasets. That includes OpenAIs plans to release its own open source model this summer to compete with the likes of DeepSeek and Chinas other AI leader, Qwen. Releasing a popular model with open weights, or the brains behind the model, would help OpenAI spread its technology because the model would be free to use and open to any developer to build on and work with. I see it partly as a post-DeepSeek offensive, Langlais said, adding that its similar to how Amazons AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud spread their cloud computing over the past two decades by offering a ton of credits and then youre locked.

So far, OpenAI has not said whether any countries have signed on to the global Stargate rollout. The ultimate goal, OpenAI said, is 10 projects with U.S. allies. While SoftBank is the financing lead for Stargate in the U.S., OpenAIs developments abroad will be funded by a bespoke group of partners on each project, the Financial Times reported. Its unclear whether those partners would be companies or countries, or both.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The big question, of course, is will this Stargate charm offensive work for OpenAIespecially when there will likely be significant strings attached to using its services? It may well be a gateway for countries to gain access to OpenAIs most advanced AI models, in addition to Nvidias most sophisticated GPUs. For now, some countries, even allies like India and Israel, cannot access them due to increasingly-stringent export controls. But yesterday, Bloomberg reported that the Trump administration plans to rescind some of those restrictions, which Nvidia, in particular, had objected to.

But if Stargate is positioned as the infrastructure layer for OpenAI's global expansion, those participating in its new initiative may be required to align with certain U.S. policies to gain access. Unlike typical corporate partnerships, this isnt about business customersit's about national governments partnering with OpenAI to access cutting-edge AI technology. If OpenAI's ecosystem becomes the only viable gateway for countries to obtain the most advanced AI capabilities, it could compromise their control over their data and technology. It also raises deeper questions about human rights including data privacy and state-level surveillance, as well as geopolitical considerations involved with using AI infrastructure controlled by U.S. interests.

Building AI thats attuned to the needs of ordinary people in their own languages has the potential to provide real value, said Miranda Bogen, director of the AI Governance Lab at the Center for Democracy & Technology, a Washington, DC-based nonprofit organization that advocates for digital rights and freedom of expression. But partnering with nation states raises serious questions about how to protect human rights against government demands. This has been a thorny challenge for tech companies over the past two decades; its only going to be more true with AI.

But as the U.S. pushes for AI dominance, OpenAI may be looking beyond just creating democratic AI. It may also be looking to fill its own critical gaps in technical research that would help it consolidate more soft power while continuing its mission to develop its version of artificial general intelligence (AGI), or AI that matches or surpasses human capabilities in various tasks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Langlais pointed out that while much of AI funding has been funneled into building applications for AI, foundational research remains underfunded. Extending Stargate abroad could create R&D hubs where local startups with deep technical expertise could be targeted by OpenAI for acqui-hires and strategic partnerships.

And yes, [that would] obviously reinforce OpenAI centrality, he said.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
(Reuters) -OpenAI and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have been meeting to discuss the health regulator's use of AI, technology news platform Wired reported on Wednesday, citing sources with knowledge of the meetings.

Sources close to the project say a small team from OpenAI has met with the FDA and two associates of Elon Musk's so-called Department of Government Efficiency multiple times in recent weeks, according to the report.

(Reporting by Christy Santhosh in Bengaluru; Editing by Leroy Leo)
(FOX40.COM)  The 10-week trial for former UC Davis student Carlos Reales Dominguez, who allegedly stabbed and killed two men and gravely injured one woman, began on Monday, May 5th.

The 2023 stabbings rocked the City of Davis, an otherwise peaceful college town.

Dominguez is being charged with murder, attempted murder, and unlawful use of a deadly weapon.

The trial finally began after Dominguez was formerly found to be mentally unfit to stand trial and sent to Atascadero State Hospital for treatment. He has since been deemed competent for trial.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dominguez is being charged with murder, attempted murder, and unlawful use of a deadly weapon.

The opening statements revealed several new and important details to the 18-member jury.

The prosecution says the first victim, David Breaux, was stabbed 31 times, and a new leather knife sheath located near his body. Breaux was found sitting upright on a bench, but the prosecution says most of Breauxs stab wounds were on his back, which is inconsistent with that position.

We also learned the second victim, UC Davis student Karim Abou Najm, was stabbed 52 times, mostly in the vital portions of the body. Photographs revealed several stab wounds around his heart. The prosecution also said a nearby doctor heard the victim screaming, ran out to help, and saw the defendant ride away on Najms bike.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The third victim, Kimberlee Guillory, an unhoused woman, was allegedly stabbed twice through her tent.

The prosecution also alleges the suspect was caught after a resident reported him to law enforcement. When officials allegedly closed in on him, they asked to see his hands and found a bloody knife in his backpack.

The prosecutors also detail how they believe Dominguez purchased the deadly weapon.

He searches on Amazon on his account for a combat knife, hunting knife, and a combat knife, and he makes a selection of a double-edged dagger that he purchases.

The defense claims the El Salvador-born former honor student and athlete began to have symptoms of schizophrenia after his first year at UC Davis. His attorney said he believed he was being directed by supernatural beings.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The defense told the court that his ex-girlfriend allegedly claimed he became withdrawn, and told friends he was hearing voices, and co-workers say he stopped showing up to his job.

What is not in dispute is that Dominguez did the physical act that caused the deaths of David Breaux, Kareem Abu Najam and injured Kimberly Gilbert, the defense attorney says. The question that will be presented to you is, what was Carlos Reales Dominguezs specific intent and mental state when he did those physical acts, and what was happening in his mind? The evidence will show that it was a mind that had been devastated by severe and debilitating mental disease.

While in the hospital, he was forced to take medication.

The defense attorney says Dominguezs symptoms are less pronounced but still present.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Several witnesses also shared more details about the murder of David Bureau.

The first witness was David Breauxs sister, Anne Maria Breaux. She testified that her brother, known as compassion guy was a Stanford University graduate, former high school teacher, and case manager for at-risk youth in Los Angeles. He struggled with depression, moved to the City of Davis in 2009, and became unhoused in 2018.

Ian Haliburton, an ornithologist and former UC Davis Graduate student, and Aiden Reynolds, a current UC Davis Student, testified that they were monitoring birds in Central Park when they discovered Breauxs body.

The court also heard from several law enforcement officials who were on the scene when the bureaus body was discovered.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The exterior of his clothing had notable puncture marks on the upper torso area of his body, there was a saturation around those puncture marks that was red in color, it appeared to be blood, Detective Alex Torres with the Davis Police Department testified.

The detective also noted that Breaux was wearing four layers of clothing on his upper body, which he says is notable because of how deeply the knife cut through the garments and punctured the body.

Torres also says he found two items near the body- a blanket and a leather knife sheath.

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.
The Indian military launched multiple missile attacks targeting sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir early on Wednesday in an attack it called Operation Sindoor. The Pakistani military claims to have retaliated, shooting down multiple Indian military planes.

At least 31 Pakistanis have been killed in the six targeted cities, according to Lieutenant Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, the director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) media wing of Pakistans military. India says it struck nine sites.

But whats the significance of the cities and sites that India attacked? And what are India and Pakistan saying about those strikes? And why did India launch these attacks in the first place?

Why did India strike Pakistan?

The missiles were Indias response to the deadly April 22 attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir in Pahalgam, during which 26 men were killed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

An armed group called The Resistance Front (TRF), which demands independence for Kashmir, claimed responsibility for the Pahalgam attack. India claims that the TRF is an offshoot of Pakistan-based armed group, the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Islamabad has denied its involvement in the Pahalgam attack and has asked for a neutral investigation into the incident.

However, since the attack, India has suspended its participation in the Indus Waters Treaty that Pakistan relies on for its water supply. Pakistan has responded by threatening to suspend its participation in the Simla Agreement, a pact signed in 1972 following the Indo-Pakistan War. Both countries have also scaled back their diplomatic ties, and each has expelled the others citizens.





How has India justified the attacks?

India claims it hit terrorist infrastructure, targeting organisations including the LeT and Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM), an armed group based in Pakistan which claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing in February 2019, which killed 40 Indian paramilitary soldiers in Pulwama in Indian-administered Kashmir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a briefing on Wednesday, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri insisted that the missile strikes focused on dismantling the terrorist infrastructure and disabling terrorists likely to be sent across to India.

Joining Misri in the briefing, Indian military officials Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh detailed the operation. Five of the nine sites that India hit, they said, were in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The remaining four were in Punjab  in Bahawalpur, Muridke, Shakar Garh and a village near Sialkot.

During the briefing, the Indian military showed a map marking out what it claimed were 21 terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Al Jazeera has not been able to independently verify the claims of either the Indian or Pakistani militaries.

The map shown by the Indian military during a media briefing on Wednesday [Priyanshu Singh/Reuters]

What has Pakistan said about the sites attacked?

Chaudhry of the ISPR described the Indian strikes as an unprovoked attack, targeting innocent people. He indicated that India had launched a total of 24 strikes across six locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chaudhry said at least 31 civilians, including women and children, had been killed, and dozens more were injured. He claimed mosques and residential areas were targeted, killing and injuring civilians.

Interaxctive_Indian_strikes_Pakistan_May7_2025_0348_GMT

Whats the significance of the sites targeted by India?

The Indian missile strikes represent the most extensive attacks on Pakistani soil outside the four wars that the nuclear-armed neighbours have fought. They also mark the first time since the war of 1971 that India has attacked Punjab, Pakistans most populated province and historical and economic hub.

Unlike previous aerial attacks by India in Pakistan or in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, some of these strikes targeted large population centres. Muridke is next to Lahore, Pakistans second-most populous city. Sialkot and Bahawalpur are major cities, too.

But many of the sites chosen as targets by India also hold specific strategic importance, at least from New Delhis perspective. Heres a breakdown:

Muridke, Punjab

Muridke is a city in Punjabs Sheikhupura District, peppered with totems of historical memory from the Mughal, Mauryan and Gupta eras.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chaudhry said a mosque named Masjid Ummul Qura was targeted with four strikes. One man was killed and one man was injured as a result. Two people have been missing from this location, Chaudhry said, adding that surrounding residential quarters have also been damaged in these attacks.

But the town, according to India and much of the international community, also hosts the headquarters of the Jamat-ud-Dawa, a charity organisation that New Delhi insists is a front for the LeT.

On Wednesday, Indias Qureshi claimed that Indian missiles struck the LeTs Markaz Taiba camp in Muridke. The Indian army claimed that key perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attack  including Ajmal Kasab, the sole gunman who was captured alive after that assault on Indias financial capital  were trained at that camp.

Meanwhile, images emerging from Muridke showed rescuers searching for victims amid the debris of a damaged government health and education complex.

Bahawalpur, Punjab

Chaudhry said that four Indian missiles struck Ahmedpur Sharqia, a town near Bahawalpur, targeting a mosque named Masjid Subhan, which was destroyed in the attack. He said that at least five people were killed in the attack, including two men, two women, and a three-year-old girl. Additionally, he said, 31 people were injured  25 men and six women. He added that four residential quarters, where civilian families were living, were damaged.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But Qureshi said India had hit the headquarters of the JeM, called Markaz Subhanallah. India described the site as a hub for recruitment, training and indoctrination.

Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-administered Kashmir

Muzaffarabad is the capital city of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, located at the confluence of the Jhelum and Neelum rivers. Muzaffarabad is sustained by its cottage industry ecosystem, including furniture making, wood carving, garment making and embroidery work, according to the State Bank of Pakistan.

Chaudhry said that a mosque called Masjid e Bilal was hit in Muzaffarabad, and a young girl was injured.

But Qureshi said India hit a LeT training centre, Sawai Nala camp in Muzaffarabad, 30km (19 miles) away from the Line of Control (LoC), the de facto border that separates Indian-administered and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. She claimed that those responsible for multiple attacks, including the April 22 Pahalgam killings, were trained at this camp.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Indian military officials also said they attacked a Jaish-e-Muhammad staging area, the Syedna Bilal camp in Muzaffarabad. A staging area refers to a place where people, vehicles and equipment are assembled and readied before being assigned a mission.

Kotli, Pakistan-administered Kashmir

Kotli is a city along the Poonch river and is an agricultural and tourist hub.

Chaudhry said a mosque named Masjid Abbas was targeted in Kotli. A 16-year-old girl and an 18-year-old boy were killed. At least two other people were injured, he added.

Qureshi, however, said that India hit a LeT base, Gulpur camp, about 30km (19 miles) away from the LoC. The Indian army added that it also struck what it called the Abbas camp in Kotli, 13km (8 miles) away from the LoC, where Qureshi said up to 15 terrorists could be trained at a time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Qureshi said India has also hit Mehmoona Joya, which she described as a facility of the Hizbul Mujahideen (HuM), a rebel group based in Indian-administered Kashmir. The HuM was founded by separatist leader Muhammad Ahsan Dar in September 1989, with a pro-Pakistan ideology, calling for India to leave the parts of Kashmir that it administers.

Bhimber, Pakistan-administered Kashmir

Qureshi claimed India struck what India called the Barnala camp in Bhimber, about 9km (5.6 miles) away from the LoC. She claimed that fighters were trained in using weapons, improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and in jungle survival at this camp.

Pakistani officials had not mentioned Bhimber as the site of any of the Indian attacks by late Wednesday evening. However, Bhimber is just south of Kotli, so it is unclear whether a missile strike on Bhimber is being counted by Pakistan as among the attacks on Kotli.

Sialkot, Punjab

Sialkot is one of Pakistans most important industrial centres for the manufacture of surgical items, sporting goods and leather products.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chaudhry said that a village north of Sialkot called Kotli Loharan was targeted in two strikes. One of these strikes misfired and did not explode, while the other landed in an open field, resulting in no damage, Chaudhry said.

Indias Qureshi and Singh, however, claimed that India had struck what they called the Sarjal camp in Sialkot. They claimed this was the training centre for those responsible for the killing of four police officers in March this year in Indian-administered Kashmir.

Shakar Garh, Punjab

Chaudhry said Shakar Garh was targeted with two strikes and reported minor damage to a small hospital, a dispensary.

However, Indian military officials have not mentioned Shakar Garh among the places targeted in the May 7 strikes.
We are living through an existential crisis, and its hard to limit the daily challenges to a single-digit set of issues. At the college level, National Institute of Health funding for vital research was halted, at least for now. K-12 schools are still making up ground from the COVID-19 disruption, and the elimination of the U.S. Department of Education is looming, threatening a range of services for our most vulnerable children. Executive orders restrict the teaching of slavery and promote funding for private school vouchers. Add to this the number of students who are not attending because of immigration enforcement.

People are exhausted and desperate for some good news. Well, we now have some.

Despite the virulent and largely inaccurate charges levied against higher education, the American public may hear it but clearly doesnt buy into the raft of misinformation. In a recent Lumina/Gallup poll, seven out of 10 adults without a college degree believe both a bachelors degree and an associates degree are either extremely or very valuable. And despite the costs, a majority in the poll believe college will pay off within five years.

Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter

In perhaps the best piece of news, a poll of college students about the quality of their college classes found that 72% consider their classes to be either excellent or very good, and half were very confident their college education and degree would result in positive career opportunities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This positive view of higher education also extends to seniors in high school. In 2025, the percentage of seniors who have filled out their FAFSA forms has increased by 13% over 2024, and the percentage of seniors filling out the Common App for college admissions increased by 4%, with the number of first-generation college goers increasing by 13%.

According to the National Student Clearinghouse of Research, the largest gains are among students from low-income neighborhoods. This is significant because the decline in birth rates has affected the size of the youth population. Add all of this to the fact that nationwide this past fall college enrollment was up by 3.4%, it is clear that the notion that college doesnt matter has little truth.

This news is particularly important because labor market data shows that by 2031, despite the phrase college doesnt matter, more than seven of every 10 jobs will require a post-secondary degree or credential. As we know, those entering the workforce with a college degree earn more than $1 million more over their lifetimes compared to those with only a high school diploma. We see growth in the semiconductor industry due to the CHIPS and Science Act, growth in health careers, green jobs, and a host of labor market areas.

This doesnt mean our higher education systems cant improve. They can and they must improve. The growth in micro-credentials is a significant innovation offering students an opportunity to earn industry credentials that are both credit-bearing and stackable toward a degree.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In New York State, the Power Authority, a big green jobs employer, is partnering with SUNY to not only double the number of micro-credentials for green jobs but also offer them to high school students in some of the states P-TECH schools, at no cost. This year Gov. Kathy Hochul announced free community college tuition for students seeking degrees in areas of labor market growth.

Related

Career Pathways Programs Have Huge Bipartisan Support. D.C. Should Get on Board

Other colleges and universities have begun providing an opportunity for a bachelors degree in three years, rather than four, reducing the time and cost of a degree. Others, including SUNY, have expanded the use of credit for prior learning, allowing military service, community service, work experience and other backgrounds to qualify students for academic credit, also reducing the cost and time of a degree.

The P-TECH approach, which offers a model of education combining high school and college via dual enrollment along with industry engagement, has spread to over 500 schools across 28 countries. It offers a clear pathway from school to college to career for students regardless of income or achievement levels. Many employers  including IBM, Cisco, Northwell Health, Micron, GlobalFoundries, and the NY Power Authority  are seeing strong results from this model. An independent evaluation by MDRC demonstrates its success, especially for low-income students and students of color.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While some of the issues involving education appear to inspire more division than unity, this isnt the case on the need for a clear pathway from school to college to career. This is an issue that unites and doesnt divide. It is this unity that will bring together Republican and Democrat governors, education leaders, business and labor leaders, and student representatives at the National Pathways Summit on Thursday to discuss the need for innovative paths from school to college to career.

It will take all of us  regardless of political affiliation  to achieve success for our nation. We must examine models of success together and identify ways to make them scalable and sustainable with clear solutions that include more experiential learning, career guidance and exploration, and access to academic and workplace skill development.

It is true that these are difficult and challenging times. But the good news story  about the latest poll numbers, the degree to which education leaders are willing and able to innovate and the unity demonstrated at the upcoming summit  give me some hope.
UPDATE (May 8, 2025, 1:33 p.m. ET): Robert Prevost of the United States has been elected as the new leader of the Catholic Church  and the first American pope. He will be known as Pope Leo XIV. White smoke rose out of the Sistine Chapels chimney Wednesday, signifying the conclaves selection of Pope Francis successor on the cardinals second day of voting.

As the Catholic Churchs College of Cardinals enters the conclave to select the next leader of the church Wednesday, one of the most pressing questions is what part of the world that leader will come from. While Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle from the Philippines is considered to be a front-runner, known for his affable style and karaoke skills, there has been buzz about the possibility of an African pope. The Catholic population has exploded on the continent, and an estimated 20% of the worlds Catholics live there.

Gelasius, who reigned from 492-496, was the last pope who hailed from Africa. And there are Africans in todays College of Cardinals who are papabile (pope potentials).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The selection of a new pope is always dramatic, but tensions arose this time even before the conclave began. There were reported leaks of conversations held at General Congregation, a meeting of the cardinals held prior to the conclave. According to unnamed sources to America Magazine, some cardinals complained about Pope Francis papacy, especially regarding his involvement of the laity in the church. Some cardinals believe that the administration of church affairs should be held only by the ordained. These complaints come from cardinals and conservatives hoping to claw back some of the power to the West  Francis was from Argentina  for which they compiled a profile of cardinals they consider acceptable.

These cardinals may have a hard time electing the kind of pope they want, though, because Francis appointed 108 of the 133 cardinals wholl be involved in selecting the next pope. There may be a lot of chatter about a conservative or liberal pope, but Francis has stacked the deck with cardinals from all over the world.

While an African pope would be a historically stunning development, one of the drawbacks is that no African cardinal holds a major office in the Vatican. That said, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besengu of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cardinal Robert Sarah from Guinea and Cardinal Peter Turkson of Ghana are three candidates to watch.

Besengu, the archbishop of Kinshasa, was appointed by Francis in 2019. At 65, he may be considered a bit too young to be pope. (Generally, electors dont like to pick someone that young as it can have a long-term effect on church polity and politics). As bishop in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Besengu stood up against President Joseph Kabilas attempts to push back elections, which bodes well for his willingness to push back against autocratic leaders. He is staunchly against homosexuality. When Francis issued a Fiducia Supplicans that allowed for same-sex blessings, Besengu followed with a statement that was explicitly opposed, stating along with some other cardinals who signed, that thered be no same-sex blessings in Africa.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Though Cardinal Robert Sarah from Guinea is papabile, his notoriety as a strict conservative make him something of a wedge candidate whod potentially divide groups. Appointed at age 34 as the bishop of Conakry, the 79-year-old theological hard-liner became embroiled in scandal in January 2020 for a book, From the Depths of Our Hearts, supposedly co-written by Sarah and Pope Benedict XVI. The problem was that the emeritus pope did not agree to co- author that book, and his name was dropped from the publication.

Cardinal Peter Turkson, 76, archbishop of Cape Coast in Ghana, is also papabile. He was appointed as cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 2003, which may make him amenable to those who want a pope who was not appointed by Francis. Turkson is the chancellor of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences and the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences. He defended Francis same-sex blessings decision and, unlike many clerics in Africa, is against the criminalization of homosexuality, putting him at odds with Ghanas bishops and Ghanas political establishment that has made it illegal to identify as an LGBTQ person. Turkson has also been at the forefront of speaking about climate change and the environment, which puts him in line with Francis on those issues.

Anything is possible when considering who is papabile. But as the saying goes, you go into the conclave a pope, you come out a cardinal. In other words, dont assume anything.

While it would bring great joy to not only the continent of Africa, but also to persons of African descent around the world, it may be difficult in this current conclave to elect a pope from Africa. While Francis shrewdly stacked the College of Cardinals, it may be hard to get consensus around candidates who are so divergent in opinions and skill sets. But for some among the African faithful, even having their cardinals considered is a win.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
President Donald Trump may still style himself as a D.C. outsider, but since his first campaign he has eagerly wielded the politicians age-old cliche about wanting to root out waste, fraud and abuse to evade tough questions about his budget proposals.

Unsurprisingly, Trump has inserted the waste, fraud and abuse phrase into the rhetoric around the most important bill of his second term so far: legislation that would extend 2017s tax cuts and partially offset the lost revenue with at least $1.5 trillion in spending reductions. However, the big, beautiful bill, in Trumps typically understated parlance, faces several big roadblocks, with House Republicans debating the cap on state and local taxes, cuts to food stamps and more.

The largest obstacle, though, is the amount of money the GOP would have to take from Medicaid, the health care program that covers 72 million people. The House GOPs budget blueprint tasks the Energy and Commerce Committee  which oversees Medicare and Medicaid  with finding at least $880 billion in savings over 10 years. As the Congressional Budget Office concluded in March, the committee cant come anywhere near that goal without cutting entitlements. Since Medicare is even more popular with the public, that leaves Medicaid on the chopping block by default.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But the committee has already pushed back its timeline as Republicans struggle to finalize the numbers. And there's another problem: Trump hasnt figured out how to lie about Medicaid cuts.

In February, he said Medicaid isnt going to be touched and then, the next day, endorsed the House bill that very much touches it. Since then, hes mostly claimed that Republicans will target only waste, fraud and abuse. But at an event in Michigan last week, the president sounded yet another note. We want to preserve Medicaid for the most vulnerable, for our kids, our pregnant women, the poor and disabled, he said.

If concern for the most vulnerable sounds distinctly un-Trumpian, thats because the language comes from congressional Republicans. Republicans on the House Budget Committee, for example, used that language in their list of possible spending cuts earlier this year.

But Trump clearly wasnt happy with his road test of that particular piece of rhetoric. When NBC News Kristen Welker asked Trump on Meet the Press if hed veto a bill with Medicaid cuts, Trump returned to the cliche: I would if they were cutting it, but theyre not cutting it. Theyre looking at fraud, waste and abuse.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Given Trumps experience as a pitchman, his inability to settle on a message perhaps reflects the difficulty of the sale. A recent survey of 10 battleground districts, conducted by GOP polling firm Meeting Street Insights on behalf of a mental health advocacy group, found that 68% of voters say cutting Medicaid benefits in order to pay for tax cuts is a bad idea, while only 22% say it is a good idea. The poll found voters more likely to oppose Medicare cuts to offset tax cuts regardless of age, gender and ethnicity, and even 44% of Republicans think its a bad idea. Even MAGA influencers like Steve Bannon and Laura Loomer have warned Republicans about cutting the program.

Politico, citing six White House officials and top allies of the president, reports that behind closed doors Trump is unconvinced that the trade-off between Medicaid and tax cuts is necessary. Moderate Republicans are skeptical, too, with a dozen representatives from battleground districts warning party leadership against any reduction in Medicaid coverage for vulnerable populations. One of the Republicans, Rep. Don Bacon of Nebraska, says he wants to limit Medicaid cuts to a mere $500 billion.

But a cut of $500 billion seems moderate only by comparison. Even if they pare the Medicaid cuts back to only $500 billion, says Bobby Kogan, senior director of federal budget policy at the Center for American Progress, it would still be the largest Medicaid cuts ever. No matter which way you slice it, its millions of people kicked off their health insurance in the largest Medicaid cuts in U.S. history. Spinning such a budget proposal as an attack on waste, fraud and abuse is a nigh impossible task. And the presidents opponents must not be shy about sharing the truth.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Some think Merrick Garland should have moved faster to prosecute everyone involved with the Capitol riot of Jan. 6, 2021. Others think the Biden Justice Department went too far. Opinions vary on prosecutorial judgment calls. Still, there are guardrails that government lawyers should never cross  even on a presidents instruction.

Recent actions from Edward R. Martin, Jr., the current interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, raise questions about when a federal prosecutor goes too far.

Martins behavior at the helm of the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia has already alarmed many lawyers. The Society for the Rule of Law wrote to Disciplinary Counsel for the D.C. Bar on Apr. 14,, 2025, asking the Bar to review his conduct for ethical discipline. Their letter highlights Martins statements suggesting he was criminally investigating perceived political enemies of himself and the president, and questions whether he gave legal advice to a Jan. 6 defendant while serving as the interim U.S. Attorney.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Martin has already added more fuel to the fire. That same day, he wrote to the editor-in-chief of CHEST Journal (the Journal of the American College of Chest Physicians) and to other medical journals with vague complaints and inquiries about misinformation and possible undisclosed advertisers or sponsors. It goes off the rails by asking, among other things, Do you accept articles or essays from competing viewpoints?

This is science were talking about. Even though some journals have made mistakes, responsible editors vet submissions and care about the integrity of their publications. Thus, Martins government office pretends to be investigating a problem that academic journals already address  and those journals are better positioned to vet the science than a prosecutor without a science background.

These letters, along with executive orders targeting law firms on the flimsiest national security pretexts, reveal a broader attack on dissent. Assume, for the sake of argument, that CHEST or the other journals targeted published some crackpot medical theories. Under what authority would the government intervene? The Commerce Clause? Is the new standard that everything must be published along with a competing viewpoint?

What troubles us is when lawyers of any administration, or of any private client for that matter, act without apparent hesitation to consider whether what the client asks of them is legally the right thing to do. In legal ethics, clients set the objective, and lawyers work within the law to achieve that objective. But there are limits on furthering a clients objective.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lawyers cannot counsel clients to do illegal things, for instance, and cannot assist clients with illegal actions. Lawyers are also encouraged to provide advice thats not merely an interpretation of the law but also addresses other considerations such as moral, economic, social and political factors, that may be relevant to the clients situation.

As Elihu Root famously said, according to Sol Linowitz, About half the practice of a decent lawyer consists in telling would-be clients that they are damned fools and should stop. We would have hoped that the governments own lawyers would have told their client not to send these letters.

So why would Martin send these letters? If he was instructed to lean on groups that have been critical of the administration, that instruction appears to violate the First Amendment. If the president or the attorney general maintains an enemies list, the objective of go after those enemies in every way possible is not a permissible objective for a lawyer to pursue, in the same way that pull every trick in the book in discovery is not permissible.

And the Department of Justice knows this. It recently launched a working group to identify instances where [government] conduct appears to have been designed to achieve political objectives or other improper aims rather than pursuing justice or legitimate governmental objectives. If the Trump administration believes it would have been wrong for the Biden administration to abuse prosecutorial offices, how can it tolerate this behavior?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To be sure, it might seem easy for two tenured professors to say, stand up to your boss, because we enjoy incredible job security. We get that. But law is both a profession and a business. Lawyers must always remember one critical ethics rule: lawyers bear ethical responsibility for their choices.

Ultimately, enough is enough. Federal prosecutors should not use the power of the federal government to suppress views. And for the federal prosecutors who do so anyway, state bars have the right and the responsibility to investigate that behavior.

Benjamin P. Edwards is a professor of law at the William S. Boyd School of Law, University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Nancy B. Rapoport is the Garman Turner Gordon Professor of Law at the William S. Boyd School of Law at UNLV, and an affiliate professor of business law and ethics in its Lee Business School. The authors write in their personal capacity and not on behalf of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

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.
MOSCOW, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday published a signed article titled "Learning from History to Build Together a Brighter Future" in the Russian Gazette newspaper ahead of his arrival in Russia for a state visit and attendance at the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War.

The following is the full text of the article:

Learning from History to Build Together a Brighter Future

H.E. Xi Jinping

President of the People's Republic of China

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War, and the World Anti-Fascist War. It also marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations (UN). In this season when "apple and pear trees are blossoming," I will soon pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War, joining the heroic Russian people in honoring the history and the fallen heroes.

Ten years ago around this time, I came to Russia to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the victory. During that visit, I made a special arrangement to meet with 18 representatives of Russian veterans who endured the blood and fire of battlefields during the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War and the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Their unyielding resolve and indomitable bearing left an indelible impression on me. In the past few years, General M. Gareyev, Major General T. Shchudlo and other veterans passed away. I pay my deepest tribute to them and to all veterans-from generals to the rank and file-for their extraordinary service and heroic feats in securing the victory over fascists around the world. We will never forget them. Heroes never perish; their noble spirit lives forever.

During the World Anti-Fascist War, the Chinese and Russian peoples fought shoulder to shoulder and supported each other. In the darkest hours of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the Soviet Volunteer Group, which was part of the Soviet Air Force, came to Nanjing, Wuhan and Chongqing to fight alongside the Chinese people, bravely engaging Japanese invaders in aerial combat-many sacrificing their precious lives. At the critical juncture of the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War, Yan Baohang, a legendary intelligence agent of the Communist Party of China (CPC) who was hailed as the "Richard Sorge of the East," provided the Soviet Union with primary-source intelligence. In the crucible of the war-torn years, the Soviet Union provided China with large quantities of weapons and equipment. China, for its part, shipped much-needed strategic supplies to the Soviet Union. The two countries jointly established a supply line spanning the treacherous Gobi Desert. It was an international lifeline, vital for our mutual support in fighting fascists. The strong camaraderie between our two nations, forged in blood and sacrifice, surges onward unceasingly, mighty as the Yellow River and the Volga. It is an eternal wellspring nourishing our everlasting friendship.

Eighty years ago, the forces of justice around the world, including China and the Soviet Union, united in courageous battles against their common foes and defeated the overbearing fascist powers. Eighty years later today, however, unilateralism, hegemonism, bullying, and coercive practices are severely undermining our world. Again humankind has come to a crossroads of unity or division, dialogue or confrontation, win-win cooperation or zero-sum games. In War and Peace, the great writer Leo Tolstoy observed, "History is the life of nations and of humanity." Indeed, historical memory and truth will not fade with the passage of time. They serve as inspirations that mirror the present and illuminate the future. We must learn from history, especially the hard lessons of the Second World War. We must draw wisdom and strength from the great victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, and resolutely resist all forms of hegemonism and power politics. We must work together to build a brighter future for humanity.

-- We must uphold a correct historical perspective on WWII. China and the Soviet Union were the principal theaters of that war in Asia and Europe respectively. The two countries served as the mainstay of resistance against Japanese militarism and German Nazism, making pivotal contribution to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. The Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression began the earliest and lasted the longest. United as one under the banner of the Chinese united front against Japanese aggression, which was advocated and established by the CPC, the Chinese people launched a relentless struggle against and defeated the brutal Japanese militarists. With immense sacrifice, they carved out an immortal epic of heroic resistance and ultimate victory against Japanese aggression. In the European theater, the Soviet Red Army advanced like an iron tide with unwavering fortitude and valor, crushed Nazi Germany's ambitions and liberated millions from its brutal occupation, writing an epic of victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War.

History teaches us that light will always overcome darkness, and that justice will ultimately prevail over evil. The International Military Tribunal at Nuremberg and the International Military Tribunal for the Far East condemned the convicted war criminals to perpetual infamy. The justice and integrity of the two landmark trials, their historic significance, and their contemporary relevance stand beyond challenge. Any attempt to distort the historical truth of WWII, deny its victorious outcome, or defame the historic contribution of China and the Soviet Union is doomed to fail. Neither of our two nations will tolerate any act to reverse the course of history-nor will the people of the whole world.

-- We must resolutely uphold the postwar international order. The most significant decision by the international community around the end of WWII was to establish the UN. China and the Soviet Union were among the first to sign the UN Charter. Our permanent membership in the UN Security Council is a product of history, earned through blood and sacrifice. The more turbulent and complex the international situation becomes, the more we must uphold and defend the authority of the UN, firmly uphold the UN-centered international system, the international order underpinned by international law, and the basic norms of international relations based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and steadily promote an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.

This year also marks the 80th anniversary of the restoration of Taiwan. Taiwan's restoration to China is a victorious outcome of WWII and an integral part of the postwar international order. A series of instruments with legal effect under international law, including the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation, have all affirmed China's sovereignty over Taiwan. The historical and legal fact therein brooks no challenge. And the authority of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 brooks no challenge. No matter how the situation on the Taiwan island evolves or what troubles external forces may make, the historical trend toward China's ultimate and inevitable reunification is unstoppable.

China and Russia have all along firmly supported each other on issues bearing on our respective core interests or major concerns. Russia has reiterated on many occasions that it strictly adheres to the one-China principle, Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory, it opposes any form of "Taiwan independence," and it firmly supports all measures of the Chinese government and the Chinese people to achieve national reunification. China highly commends Russia's consistent position.

-- We must firmly defend international fairness and justice. Now, the global deficits in peace, development, security and governance continue to widen unabated. To address these deficits, I have proposed to build a community with a shared future for mankind and put forward the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative as a way forward to steer the reform of the global governance system toward greater fairness and justice.

The world needs justice, not hegemonism. History and reality have proven that to meet global challenges, it is important to uphold the vision of global governance featuring extensive consultation and joint contribution for shared benefit. It is also important to choose dialogue over confrontation, build partnerships over alliances, and pursue win-win cooperation over zero-sum games. It is equally important to practice true multilateralism, accommodate the legitimate concerns of all parties, and safeguard international norms and order. We firmly believe that people around the world will choose to stand on the right side of history and the side of fairness and justice.

China and Russia are both major countries with significant influence in the world. The two nations are constructive forces for maintaining global strategic stability and for improving global governance. Our bilateral relationship is founded upon a clear historical logic, sustained by strong internal drive, and rooted in profound cultural heritage. Our relationship is neither directed against nor swayed by any third party. Together we must foil all schemes to disrupt or undermine our bonds of amity and trust, and we must not be baffled by transient matters or unsettled by formidable challenges. We must leverage the certainty and resilience of our partnership of strategic coordination to jointly accelerate the shift toward a multipolar world and build a community with a shared future for mankind.

China and Russia are both great nations with splendid civilizations. The Chinese and Russian peoples are both great peoples defined by heroic legacies. Eighty years ago, our peoples won the anti-fascist war through heroic struggles. Eight decades later today, we must take all necessary measures to resolutely safeguard our sovereignty, security, and development interests. We should be guardians of historical memory, partners in national development and rejuvenation, and champions of global fairness and justice, and work together to forge a brighter future for humanity. 
President Donald Trumps executive order issued Monday would end federal funding for gain-of-function (GoF) research. The EO, like so many others attacking science, contains false and misleading arguments. It is mere political theater, rather than a serious plan to strengthen our preparedness for the next pandemic.

The EO ends federal funding for GoF conducted by foreign entities in "countries of concern," without specifying the countries other than China. Notably, the EO defines dangerous gain-of-function research broadly, not limiting application of the order to pathogens with pandemic potential. It separately suspends funding for vaguely defined other life-science research determined to pose a threat to U.S. health, safety, or security. That means the administration could stop funding important research even if it doesnt involve a gain of function. The order also instructs the Office of Science and Technology Policy to establish guidance suspending all federally funded GoF research within the U.S. and to oversee such research carried out without federal funds. The EO purports to target our adversaries like China, but it paints with a broad brush.

So, what is GoF research, and what are its benefits and dangers? Truth be told, GoF is poorly defined, but broadly encompasses research that enhances an organisms (like a pathogens) function. A subset of this research could make a pathogen more transmissible or pathogenic. Scientists employ GoF virology techniques to better understand the biology, ecology and pathogenesis of viruses. GoF experiments help scientists understand how quickly resistance or viral mutations develop. These experiments can be important for developing lifesaving vaccines and treatments, for example, helping researchers understand the evolution of coronaviruses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is important to stress that GoF research involving pathogens with pandemic potential raises vital biosafety and biosecurity concerns. We should worry that enhanced pathogens may leak from an unsecured lab or be used in a bioterrorism attack.

These concerns have led the National Institutes of Health to tighten biosafety controls and stringently regulate how, when and where GoF research can be conducted. NIH already employs multiple layers of review and oversight of GoF research. In 2014, the Obama administration paused funding for high-risk GoF studies involving SARS, MERS and novel influenza viruses. It was the first Trump administration that lifted the pause in 2017, initiating a rigorous evaluation process for research proposals using a Department of Health and Human Services-led risk-benefit analysis. The Biden administration further reinforced GoF safeguards, requiring researchers to submit a detailed risk-mitigation plan, a policy that came into force just this month.

Trump has taken aim at GoF research because he believes a laboratory leak at the Wuhan Institute of Virology caused the Covid-19 pandemic. He attacks the NIH, and especially Dr. Anthony Fauci, for making a grant to the EcoHealth Alliance. On Jan. 17, HHS cut off all funding and formally debarred EcoHealth and its former president, Peter Daszak, for five years after a scathing partisan report from the GOP-led House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic.

We may never know the true origins of Covid, and the lab leak theory remains a possibility.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Yet, most evidence still supports a natural zoonotic spillover, including SARS-CoV-2-positive environmental samples collected from Wuhans Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market, epidemiologic linking to the market, and genetic analysis of two distinct viral lineages in early Covid-19 cases. On the other hand, there is no known progenitor strain to SARS-CoV-2 associated with the Wuhan laboratory.

Of course its important for the future of public health to understand as best we can what led to the pandemic. But thats not whats motivating Trump and his administration  rather, they seek to reopen old political battles and boost conspiracy theories.

Trumps latest executive order is part of a series of steps that weaken federal health agencies, including a 40% funding cut to NIH and a 50% cut to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. NIH has proposed slashing indirect funding for all U.S. universities, a devastating blow to research. NIH announced it would end billions in funding for international research, imperiling global health research on infectious diseases. And we have not even mentioned the fact that Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has undermined scientific advisory committees at NIH and CDC, put a vaccine skeptic in charge of a major study looking into vaccines and autism, and fomented distrust in vaccines.

What the president should do is focus on current and future steps to prepare us for the next pandemic: tighter biosecurity and biosafety protections in laboratories domestically and abroad, continued strong regulatory oversight of GoF research, investments in science and public health, full funding for NIH and CDC, and rejoining the World Health Organization.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Trump administration seems determined to weaken U.S. preparedness for the next pandemic by eviscerating NIH and its ability to conduct and fund research into deadly pathogens together with its global partners. If we truly want to harden our defenses against pandemics, we need to stop relitigating the lab leak hypothesis, and jump-start research and innovation at the NIH and beyond.

GoF research will continue globally because it is important, and there is a lot we dont know about how viruses evolve. But Trump has made it so that biomedical research will have lost a major collaborator in the U.S. Our scientists will now have fewer tools to detect, understand and fight viral disease.

CORRECTION (May 6, 2025, 7:39 p.m. ET): A previous version of this article incorrectly listed Iran as one of the "countries of concern" named in the executive order.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
President Trump has a problem with pollsters. But rather than berate them as negative criminals and call for their investigation, the president should pursue a more rational, record-based case against them  if, that is, he is able to tone down the hyperbole and focus on the facts.

Trump assailed pollsters in bombastic terms following the release of surveys indicating his approval rating has plunged to levels seldom matched by a U.S. president three months into his term. Trump specifically attacked the New York Times-Siena College poll, which had reported that, by 54 percent to 42 percent, respondents disapprove of the presidents handling of his job. He also singled out for scorn the results reported in a Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos survey that showed only 39 percent of respondents approve of his performance.

There were plenty of other unfavorable assessments, too, released to mark the passing of 100 days of Trumps second term.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

CNN reported the presidents approval rating was underwater, at 41 percent to 59 percent disapproval, and declared the result the lowest for any newly elected president at 100 days dating back at least to Dwight Eisenhower  including Trumps own first term.

And a Marist College survey, conducted for PBS and NPR, reported 45 percent of respondents said Trump deserves an F for his job performance so far. About half that number (23 percent) said Trump merits an A. Just 42 percent overall approve of Trumps job performance, according to Marist.

Were he to choose a more focused, accountability-driven response, Trump could readily point to flawed poll results reported in the 2024 presidential campaign. Given that many of them erred in estimating the election outcome, he could pose a simple question: What makes them believable now?

Trump, in short, could argue pollsters have persistent credibility problems and point to vulnerabilities exposed in recent elections.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Traditionally, pre-election polls have been regarded as representing what George Gallup, a founding figure of survey research, called an acid test of the soundness of polling techniques. The only justification of an election forecast, Gallup once declared, is to test polling methods.

The late Philip Meyer, a well-regarded journalist, educator and past president of the American Association for Public Opinion Research, essentially agreed with Gallups characterization, noting: A poll is an estimating device while an election is an exact measurement of the real world. By holding the device against the reality, we can learn how well the device is working.

The reality revealed in the three most recent U.S. presidential elections was that pollsters were unable to measure with accuracy Trumps popular backing. They collectively understated support for Trump in each election, despite having made methodological adjustments following the 2016 and 2020 campaigns  adjustments specifically intended to measure Trumps popular backing more accurately.

Just one pollster  AtlasIntel, a Brazilian firm  accurately projected Trumps winning all seven states where the election turned in 2024. Those swing states were Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The final New York Times-Siena College pre-election poll showed Trump ahead in just one swing state, Arizona. His Democratic rival, Kamala Harris, led in four of those states, and the race was tied in the other two. Some of the errors were not close: The Times-Siena poll missed the final outcome in North Carolina by 5.3 points and in Nevada by 6.1 points.

The Washington Post developed a poll-based election model which, as the 2024 campaign closed, showed Harris leading narrowly in four swing states and holding a lead of 2 points nationally. The Post claimed its model only includes polls that are transparent about how they are conducted  and use methods that have demonstrated accuracy.

CNNs polling, which is conducted by the SSRS research firm in suburban Philadelphia, was especially off-target. Its final pre-election polling gave Harris leads of 6 percentage points in Wisconsin and 5 points in Michigan  polling errors of nearly 7 points and 6.5 points, respectively. CNNs polling showed Harris carrying four swing states: Arizona, Michigan, Wisconsin and North Carolina. Had she won them, Harris would have been elected president.

CNNs performance was especially striking because the network had announced modifications to its polling methods following the 2020 campaign. That year, CNNs final poll erroneously indicated Joe Biden led Trump by 12 percentage points. Biden won that election by just 4.5 points.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2024, the Marist/PBS/NPR poll estimated Harris led Trump by 4 percentage points at the end of the campaign. Trump won the popular vote by 1.5 points  which meant the Marist poll was off by 5.5 points. According to data compiled by RealClearPolitics, no national pollster in 2024 misfired as badly as Marist.

And no statewide poll in 2024 was more dramatically in error than the once-well regarded Iowa Poll, conducted by J. Ann Selzer for the Des Moines Register newspaper. Selzers final pre-election poll reported that Harris was ahead by 3 points in what has become a decidedly Republican state  a finding enthusiastically embraced by Trump foes, as it suggested Harris was on her way to the Oval Office.

Trump went on to win Iowa by 13 points, implying a 16-point error for Selzers poll.

Before taking office, Trump sued the Iowa Poll for fraud, claiming the erroneous poll was no miss but rather an attempt to influence the outcome of the 2024 presidential election by projecting a false narrative of inevitability about Harriss candidacy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Instead of suing and haranguing pollsters, Trump might well turn survey results back on them. For example, a Marist survey last year reported that 61 percent of respondents said they had little or no trust in polls; 38 percent claimed to have a great deal or a good amount of confidence in them. It would not be too outlandish to argue that pollsters approval ratings, at least according to Marist, are worse than Trumps.

Or, the president might point to a recent Emerson College poll, which indicated that voters, by a margin of 48 percent to 47 percent, would choose Trump over Harris in a rematch.

The data are plentiful for a dispassionate, critical assessment of recent polling performance. Of course, dispassionate assessment has never been Trumps favored approach.

W. Joseph Campbell is a professor emeritus at American University in Washington, D.C. He has written seven solo-authored books including Lost in a Gallup: Polling Failure in U.S. Presidential Elections.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Its hard to overstate the significance of Utah being chosen, for the third straight year, as the best state in the union according to U.S. News & World Report.

This achievement is a testament to the states leadership  including those in the political, business, academic and religious realms  and to its people. It is also a testament to the Utah way, something cited by the publications editors.

That phrase connotes the states unique culture of community, as well as its ability to tackle difficult issues with optimism, energy and the spirit of constructive compromise and relationship-building. It doesnt always manifest itself, but when it does, great things happen.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One of this weeks top news stories illustrates this trait well.

Trade with Canada

On Tuesday, President Trump met with Canadas new prime minister, Mark Carney, in the Oval Office. The meeting was cordial, but there was an underlying tension between the two leaders because of recently enacted tariffs and counter tariffs, and because Trump has spoken about making Canada the 51st state.

Carney said his country was not for sale. Trump responded, Time will tell.

While these tensions have simmered for months, Utah has been the only state to see opportunity amid uncertainty. In April, Gov. Spencer Cox led a delegation of business, government, academic and political leaders to Canada on a trade mission.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At a time when trade is being disrupted, Utahs leaders saw a chance to pitch the state as the best place in the nation to do business.

The trip forged new friendships, strengthened existing ones and built economic ties. Utahns involved in mineral extraction connected with Canadian companies, making supply chain agreements to process raw materials mined in Utah. Defense industry companies strengthened their supply chain ties with Canada, as well.

The trip was an outward sign of something that ought to be obvious to all: current conditions are only temporary.

That was also noted at the second annual Crossroads of the World International Trade Summit, hosted by World Trade Center Utah and Zions Bank this week. Utah is willing to travel to Canada, Mexico, Ukraine and many other places to bring mutual opportunities for those countries and for Utah.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It then sets up opportunities to bring world leaders here in all aspects of government and business, a list this week that includes former prime ministers and secretaries of state.

It just shows once again that Utah is not just the crossroads of the West, its a crossroads of the world, Jeff Flake, former U.S. ambassador to Turkey and current chairman of World Trade Center Utahs Board of Directors, told the Deseret News.

Now, when tensions are at their highest, is the best time for a Western U.S. state to take advantage of the dearth of communication between allies and make impressions that will last. In other words, Utah is being acknowledged as the best place to live and a rich place to do business  on a global scale.

This (current situation) will work itself out at some point, and when it does, Im here to tell you that Utah and Ontario will have even stronger relationships because of it, Cox said in a speech.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This, too, is an example of the Utah way.

Last year, Utah exported $1.5 billion worth of goods, minerals and technology to Canada, and it imported $4.7 billion. That is a relationship worth cultivating.

Constructive compromises

As for the Utah way, many people cite the states unique solutions to problems. For example, something known as the Utah Compromise was enacted in 2015 to protect the rights of LGTBQ+ people while also preserving religious liberty.

This compromise has helped Utah avoid many of the contentious political confrontations that affect other states.

Just as important is something known as the Utah Compact, which established five principles upon which immigration laws should be based. Reaffirmed in 2019, it calls for preserving families and recognizing the economic role immigrants play as workers and taxpayers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While endorsing the rule of law, it said, Local law enforcement resources should focus on criminal activities, not civil violations of federal code.

Both of these seem much more relevant today than they were when first drafted.

Begins at home

The U.S. News & World Report account mentioned something else:

Those in the know also note the intangible aspects of community and respect  at the dinner table or elsewhere  that fuel a phenomenon termed the Utah way. To sum it up: In a politically divisive era, people actually talk to each other and try to work through issues.

Faith is part of that component. Service plays a strong role. Care for others is part of that ethic.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That is a unique source of strength in a world that grows increasingly more isolated and self-absorbed. The dinner table is far more powerful than a legislative negotiation table. A home is more powerful than a Capitol building or city hall.

Though it is far from perfect nor free from problems and challenges, Utah can draw upon this strength to reimagine and forge solutions to those challenges  whether they involve international trade, discrimination, immigration or a host of other problems.
On April 30, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in a case that could compel states with charter school laws to authorize religious charters. Reporters from the New York Times, the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal and The 74 said the courts conservative majority bloc appeared open to religious charter schools.

Such a ruling would be bad for the country and deeply disruptive. It could upend the charter school sector, raising questions about the constitutionality of the federal charter school law and the laws in 47 states, all of which require charters to be nonsectarian. It could lead to blue states cutting back on charter schools and red states seeing a flood of religious charters open up, which would further balkanize an already divided country.

Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter

Is there any hope? The best outcome would be if one of the conservative justices  most likely Chief Justice John Roberts  ended up siding with the liberal justices and rejecting a requirement that authorizers must permit religious charter schools. The second-best outcome would be if policymakers took creative steps (as I outline below) to comply with an adverse Supreme Court ruling while preserving social cohesion and retaining for charter schools the flexibility they need to flourish.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I have a modest hope that Robertss vote may be in play. If he votes with the courts three liberal justices, a 4-4 decision would let stand the Oklahoma Supreme Courts decision opposing religious charters. (Justice Amy Coney Barrett is recused in the case.)

In the oral arguments, the justices homed in on the central question in the case: Are charters public or private? If they are public, then the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment prohibits them from being religious. If they are private, by contrast, the courts interpretations of the First Amendments Free Exercise Clause that government cannot discriminate against religious schools would apply.

Related

In Case the Choice World Dreaded, Justices Appear Open to Religious Charters

Roberts asked tough questions of both sides, but the most hopeful moment came when he noted that the state has a much more comprehensive involvement in charter schools than in private schools, which could tilt his thinking against religious charters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Greg Garre, who served as solicitor general under former President George W. Bush, made a powerful case that charter schools are public. He noted that private schools differ from charter schools in eight respects:

Private schools can open without any state approval.



There are no requirements or supervision of curriculum for private schools.



Private schools can charge tuition.



Private schools can restrict admissions.



Private schools are not subject to general state assessment tests.



Private schools are not subject to nearly the reporting requirements or oversight as public schools



Private schools not subject to state rules regarding student discipline, civil rights [and] health



Theres no process for closing private schools short of consumer fraud.

If Roberts nevertheless decides, along with other conservatives, that charter schools are private schools, and states are compelled to authorize religious charters, that would set off a number of consequences.

First, blue states are likely to rebel. As Justice Neil Gorsuch noted, some states may begin imposing more requirements on charter schools, essentially making them more public. For a sector that thrives on independence, this could constitute a boomerang effect.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Second, red states are likely to see a number of religious private schools convert to charter status. As Justice Elena Kagan noted, Theres a big incentive to operating charter schools, since everything is funded for you. She expected to see a line out the door of applicants.

Third, there is likely to be more litigation. As the justices asked in the oral argument: If charters are deemed private schools, then does that mean a conservative Christian charter school could, as a matter of religious liberty, bar the admissions of Jewish, Muslim and gay students? Could the same school discriminate against gay or non-Christian faculty members? Could it reject state standards requiring that it teach evolution?

Related

Supreme Court Must Not Undermine Public Education in Religious Charter Case

I found this all very depressing, but there was one compelling moment in the oral argument that gave me some hope and sparked an idea about how state charter school boards could minimize the damage of a negative Supreme Court decision: focus on the question of a schools mission.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At one point during the argument, Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Ketanji Brown Jackson offered a hypothetical question. If the government wanted to commission a mural and a religious painter wanted to include religious images, could the government reject that approach? Yes, said James Campbell, the attorney for the charter school board, because in that case, the government is trying to speak its own message on its own buildings. He claimed that the charter school law in Oklahoma, by contrast, gives broad autonomy to the schools to come up with their own mission.

Under that logic, what if charter school laws were amended to say that applicant schools were free to identify a number of missions, but that they had to identify as their ultimate mission teaching the liberal democratic values that bind together Americans of all backgrounds? Thats already a central premise built into the constitutions and laws of many states. As Albert Shanker, who first brought the idea of public charter schools to the national stage, argued, the primary mission of public education is to teach these values, which is bound up in what it means to be an American.

Related

States Should Support Religious Education  But Not Through Charter Schools

Teaching liberal democratic values is probably consistent with the approach of most religious charter schools, but few are likely to agree that this is their most important mission. The Oklahoma school at the center of the Supreme Court case, St. Isadore of Seville Catholic Virtual School, says its ultimate goal is eternal salvation. For many religious leaders, saying that promoting liberal democracy is their schools primary mission would constitute blasphemy. When former President Joe Biden called the ideals in Americas founding documents sacred, a Catholic priest objected in the pages of the Wall Street Journal, saying, America isnt sacred. Only God is.

The test for charter school applicants wouldnt be religious; it would be one of mission. Not every religious school would fail the test, and not every secular school would pass it. If the government is entitled to speak its own message on its own building, why cant a state ask the schools it funds to advance as their central message the preservation of liberal democracy?
There is a grim predictability to the unpredictability of Donald Trump. His impulsive, often erratic swings on matters of immense economic consequence  especially tariffs  have become a defining feature of his presidency. The latest chapter in this increasingly farcical saga unfolded on April 22, when Trump, with little fanfare and even less explanation, declared that the very high tariffs on Chinese goods would soon be substantially reduced.

This sudden reversal followed weeks of climbing the tariff escalator, punctuated by a selective retreat in sectors like electronics  a move less about strategic calibration than tactical bargaining. No solemn apology was offered for this breathtaking U-turn. None was expected. Instead, Trumps rare moment of restraint in tone hinted at a more uncomfortable reality: the administrations bellicose trade strategy has yielded little beyond domestic pain and global confusion.

There is a temptation to view Trumps tariff gambits as erratic improvisations. In truth, they are symptomatic of a deeper malaise: an administration where the performance of toughness consistently eclipses the pursuit of results. The self-congratulatory tariffs  which at their peak reached an eye-watering 145 percent on some Chinese imports  have neither compelled Beijing into submission nor revived American manufacturing from its slow-motion decline.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Instead, Trumps so-called strategy has backfired spectacularly. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessents muted calls for de-escalation reveal a growing recognition of the unsustainable nature of the current situation. In a recent closed-door investor summit coinciding with Trumps public pivot, Bessent acknowledged the obvious: the trade war with China was unsustainable. His words, aimed at soothing fraying nerves, could not disguise the fact that the American tariff regime has devolved into a parody of strategic governance.

Perhaps the most telling response has come not from Washington, but from Beijing. Unlike other nations entangled in Trumps tariff dragnet, China has eschewed frantic diplomacy. It has requested no emergency negotiations, sought no desperate exemptions. In its studied silence, Beijing has wagered that Trumps inconsistency is a greater liability than any import duty.

In response to Trumps actions, Chinas Ministry of Commerce denounced Washingtons weaponization of trade as performative populism  a pointed rebuke of an administration that frequently confuses theatrics with diplomacy. Last month, Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs elaborated further: emphasizing that China and the United States, as the worlds two largest economies, share extensive common interests and broad space for cooperation  interests threatened by the rise of unilateralism and protectionism in Washington.

These are not mere platitudes. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations 46 years ago, Sino-American trade has exploded more than 270-fold. Over 70,000 American companies operate in China, with exports to the Chinese market supporting nearly a million U.S. jobs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite the political turbulence of 2024, bilateral trade expanded by 3.7 percent year-on-year, reaching a robust $688 billion. The figures speak for themselves. Yet this reality is precisely what the Trump administration, lost in its protectionist delusions, refuses to accept.

Trumps economic nationalism is being sold to the American public as a panacea for lost jobs and withering industries. In practice, it has achieved the opposite. Manufacturers reliant on global supply chains have faced surging costs. Farmers  once bedrock Trump supporters  have been driven to dependence on government bailouts. Consumers have paid more for everyday goods. What makes the chaos even more galling is its selective nature.

Trumps decision to exempt electronics  protecting supply chains critical to big companies  reveals a transparently transactional logic: punish sectors that are politically expendable, shield those that align with corporate Americas most powerful lobbies. If the goal were truly economic security, tech would be the last sector carved out. Instead, Trumps exemptions betray the familiar pattern: electoral math over national strategy.

More dangerous than the incoherence, however, is the erosion of Americas global credibility. Trade wars, unlike conventional wars, do not merely inflict damage on adversaries. They poison alliances, destabilize markets, and erode the multilateral norms painstakingly constructed over decades.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Under Trumps stewardship, American trade diplomacy has ceased to be a tool of engagement and become a weapon of spectacle  and the world has noticed. China, for its part, has adopted an almost statesmanlike strategic restraint. Despite being on the receiving end of unprecedented tariff escalation, it has been consistently emphasizing cooperation over confrontation.

In its recent statements, Beijing pointedly reminded Washington that unilateralism and protectionism damage the development of bilateral economic and trade relations, destabilize global supply chains and harm both economies people.

Contrast this with Washingtons flailing approach: hiking tariffs, slapping duties, initiating new Section 301 investigations, stripping duty-free status for Chinese goods  all measures that hurt American businesses as much as they aim to hurt China.

The bitter irony is that Trumps tariffs have become a form of economic self-sabotage, doing more harm at home than abroad. It is an enduring lesson of history: protectionism may feel good in the short term, but it inevitably isolates and impoverishes in the long run. One can almost predict Trumps next move.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Like a magician eager for applause, he may soon claim victory  framing the rollback of tariffs as proof of his negotiating genius. But the world has seen this act before: the manufactured crises, the hasty compromises, the hollow declarations of triumph. The damage, however, is not so easily undone.

If nothing else, this episode should serve as a cautionary tale for future policymakers: power wielded without purpose invites ruin. And the greatest threat to the American economy may not come from Beijing, but from the chaos within.

Imran Khalid is a physician and has a masters degree in international relations.

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 chateau at the Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve was named to a national list of endangered historic sites. (Photo courtesy of Friends of the Oregon Caves and Chateau)

This is a developing story and will be updated

The Depression-era chateau at the Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve, closed since 2018 for rehabilitation work, is one of the nations most at-risk historic sites, according to a national nonprofit dedicated to preserving Americas history.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The National Trust for Historic Preservation on Wednesday listed the historic caves chateau as one of its 11 Most Endangered Historic Places of 2025. Its the first time an Oregon site has made the list, which draws national attention to historic sites in an effort to spur fundraising and preservation work, since it launched in 1988.

Each site on this years list has inspired passionate supporters from their surrounding communities to work together to save these cherished landmarks and repurpose them for the public, now and into the future, said Carol Quillen, President and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Their leadership shows the power of preservation to create stronger communities, energized local economies, and a healthier environment for everyone.

The designation comes as the National Park Service, which manages the Oregon Caves, braces for further federal funding cuts. President Donald Trumps budget request for the next fiscal year proposes cutting $900 million from National Park Service operations, and the administration indicated it wanted to transfer responsibility for smaller sites from the federal government to states.

The caves, at the end of a steep, narrow and winding hour-long drive from Cave Junction, have long drawn tourists to picturesque but sparsely populated southern Oregon. Along with Crater Lake, Redwood and Lassen Volcanic national parks, the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, Lava Beds National Monument and the former Tule Lake segregation center, the caves are part of the National Park Services Circle of Discovery in Oregon and northern California.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While the main draw of the national monument is the cave itself, one of only a few marble cave systems in the country, the 1934-built chateau attracts architectural buffs and provided overnight lodging and concessions before it closed for construction in 2018. It features a rustic exterior of Port Orford cedar bark, Cave Creek runs through the dining room and its home to the countrys largest public collection of Monterey furniture, a western style popular in the 1930s and 1940s.

The National Park Service closed the chateau in 2018 for an $8.6 million project to update wiring and plumbing and bring it into compliance with modern accessibility standards.

But as work continued, the Park Service identified major structural problems. It set aside an additional $4.5 million in 2020, then canceled its construction contract in 2023 because of insufficient funding.

The National Park Service faced a $23.3 billion deferred maintenance backlog as of July 2024, according to a report from the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service. The Oregon Caves are one of five Oregon sites managed by the National Park Service.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The states only national park, Crater Lake, is the best known, but the park service also manages John Day Fossil Beds National Monument in eastern Oregon, the Lewis and Clark National Historic Park near Astoria and the McLoughlin House unit of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.

Crater Lake, which has closed several sections of trails and its rim road because of fire damage in recent years, will close its boat tours and Cleetwood Cove trail to the lakes surface for at least three years following the summer season for maintenance. Crater Lake alone faces a deferred maintenance backlog of $240 million, according to the National Park Service.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Oregon representatives have voted to rename several of the states waterways, valleys, and roads to remove what they say are offensive names for beloved locations.

HB 3532, also known as the Dignity in Place Act, was introduced by Rep. Tawna Sanchez (D-Portland) to rename landmarks including Squaw Creek in Douglas County, Chinaman Hat in Josephine County, and Cannibal Mountain in Lincoln County.

Arrest made for driver accused of intentionally hitting Hwy 26 motorcyclist

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Renaming offensive locations in Oregon reflects our shared commitment to mutual respect, historical truth and creating a welcoming environment for all Oregonians, Rep. Sanchez said. My hope is that no one has to drive in any wonderful part of the state of Oregon and feel like they dont belong there.

According to the Oregon House, the U.S. Department of the Interior began reviewing and replacing names of landmarks on federal land in 2021.

Elephant seal pup stabbed multiple times on Oregon beach

In 2001, Sen. Kate Brown passed legislation to remove derogatory names from Oregon locations. The Oregon Historical Society has since listed 107 geographic locations with offensive names in the state. HB 3532 shares that several of these names still remain.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The next generation shouldnt have to grow up seeing slurs on signs and thinking its just something they have to live with, Rep. Annessa Hartman (D-Oregon City) said. Its long past time we step up, take responsibility, and remove them from our maps and landmarks.

The bill is now headed for consideration by the Oregon Senate.

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.
May 6OREGON  A 23-year-old man accused of setting an Oregon home on fire May 1 will be evaluated by a court-appointed psychologist to determine if he is fit to stand trial.

Matthew L. Thoreson was charged Friday, May 2, with aggravated arson, a Class X felony, following a Thursday, May 1, house fire at 805 S. Eighth St., Oregon.

According to court documents, Thoreson "knowingly damaged" the home when he set a fire while one or more persons were inside.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thoreson is also charged with residential arson, a Class 1 felony, where he is accused of using fire to commit the arson in the home where an Oregon woman lived.

Thoreson has been held in the Ogle County Jail since his arrest. He appeared in court Monday, May 5, with his attorney, Assistant Public Defender Eric Morrow, for an arraignment.

Morrow asked Judge Russell Crull to approve a motion to have Thoreson evaluated by Jayne Braden, a forensic and clinical psychologist in Sycamore.

Morrow said he did not believe Thoreson has the ability to help with his defense and asked Crull for the court-appointed evaluation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Morrow said he had spoken with Thoreson and had made his decision to seek the evaluation based on his client's "statements and behaviors."

In his motion, Morrow said he had a "bona fide doubt" as to Thoreson's "fitness to stand trial or to plead" due to his "mental condition."

"I would ask the court not to conduct a detention hearing today," Morrow said.

Assistant State's Attorney Matthew Leisten did not object to the continuance. "I believe this is the right approach," Leisten said.

During detention hearings, a judge determines whether to release a defendant from custody as the case proceeds through the court system. Criteria used by judges to make that decision include the nature of the alleged offenses, whether the defendant's release would pose a "clear and present danger" to the community or certain individuals, and whether the defendant is considered to be a "flight risk" and likely will not appear again for scheduled court cases.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Morrow said the evaluation  paid for by Ogle County  would help the court decide Thoreson's fitness to face the charges before any further proceedings are held.

Crull agreed and continued Thoreson's detention while the evaluation is conducted. He estimated that the evaluation could take 30 days and set Thoreson's next court date for 1:30 p.m. June 23.

If the completed report is received sooner, an earlier court date could be set, Crull told Morrow and Leisten.

Class X felonies are punishable by 6-30 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections followed by 18 months of mandatory supervised release. Those convicted must serve 85% of sentence and register as an arsonist.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Class 1 felony charge is punishable by 4-15 years in prison, 12 months mandatory supervised release, and arson registration.

Fire crews reported to the house fire at 12:24 p.m., with the first Oregon fire unit arriving at 12:28 p.m. The fire was extinguished at 12:36 p.m., said Oregon Fire Chief Michael Knoup.

The fire started in the basement on wooden shelves, Knoup said.

"The two occupants of the house were able to escape, and exit the home prior to our arrival," Knoup said. "We did rescue one dog and two cats from the residence. Everyone was OK."

Knoup said other occupants of the home told firefighters that the fire may have been set intentionally by a third occupant of the residence who had already left the scene.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"With that information I investigated origin of the fire, found its location. At that time I ruled it possible arson and requested the Office of the State Fire Marshal to investigate. After their investigation was complete, they pursed the filing of charges of aggravated arson," Knoup said.

Knoup emphasized the importance of having working smoke detectors, adding that the Oregon fire district offers free smoke detector testing.
Three fires converged in 2020, destroying over 1,500 structures in the Santiam Canyon, which included massive destruction to the city of Detroit, shown here. A partnership between the Oregon State Fire Marshals Office and the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety could help Oregonians harden homes and create defensible space to spare them from burning up in a wildfire. (Photo courtesy of Oregon State University)

Oregons State Fire Marshal is collaborating with a nonprofit backed by the insurance industry to help Oregonians protect their homes from burning and keep their premiums from rising.

State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple signed a memorandum of agreement Friday with Roy Wright, CEO of the South Carolina-based Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, which oversees the Wildfire Prepared certification program. The program offers homeowners in California, and now Oregon, certificates for undertaking specific wildfire prevention work around their homes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In turn, insurers could incorporate certification into their calculus for rates and premiums, helping to curb the rising cost of property insurance, which has grown 30% since 2020, according to the states Department of Consumer and Business Services. For Gov. Tina Kotek, the memorandum is about making sure Oregonians can keep getting property insurance, period.

What I think is important for us is that we continue to have insurance for our homeowners here, despite the wildfire risk. Thats not true in other states, she said at a news conference Monday. We also want the price to come down, but at a minimum we need to have insurance for our homeowners.

The California Department of Insurance requires insurance companies operating in the state to offer discounts for wildfire mitigation work. The Oregon Legislature hasnt passed similar requirements, but Kotek said thats not necessary yet.

We still have an insurance market. California is really struggling to maintain insurance coverage. Thats not our issue right now, she said. I think by working with the insurance industry and (implementing) best practices for communities, were going to have a different relationship than they have in California.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Besides offering certificates for wildfire prevention work, the state and the association will partner on research, educational opportunities for Oregonians around home hardening and defensible space and offering post-wildfire analysis.

Getting certified

The Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, an independent nonprofit backed by major insurers including State Farm and Farmers Insurance, offers two different Wildfire Prepared certificates: one for older homes being retrofitted to withstand fire and one for newer homes being built to withstand fires.

The certificates apply only to single-family homes three stories or less, and the person who applies for the certification has to own the home. Townhomes, condos, multiplexes and apartment buildings are not eligible, and the process cant be started by a renter.

The main requirement homeowners must meet is clearing a 5-foot buffer around the home and any deck, leaving no combustible material. That means no trees, overhanging branches, mulch, grass, turf, wood or vinyl fencing can be within 5 feet of a home or deck.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After work is completed, homeowners submit $125 along with an application that includes photos of their work. Inspectors at the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety review the photos and, if approved, a third party inspector follows up to visit and confirm the work has been done, or document what more should be done.

Homeowners who are certified must submit photos annually showing they are maintaining their defensible space buffer and they must get recertified every three years.

In a news release, Oregons Insurance Commissioner Andrew Stolfi said the certification should eventually help Oregonians keep and afford insurance.

When consumers and the state invest in reducing wildfire risk, insurers  guided by data and science  should reflect that progress in rating and underwriting, helping to keep coverage available and affordable for Oregonians, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investment or incentives from the Legislature that might help Oregonians with the costs of home hardening, however, has lagged. In 2021, following the catastrophic 2020 Labor Day Fires, the Legislature allocated more than $30 million to help Oregonians with home hardening. By 2023, the Legislature allocated about 10% of that.

A 2024 grant program from the State Fire Marshals Office that provided $250 grants to help Oregonians afford defensible space landscaping is no longer available, according to Kassie Keller, an agency spokesperson.

Kotek said helping Oregonians afford to prevent wildfires from burning up their homes is still a priority for her.

The sessions not over yet, she said. Im going to continue to fight for dedicated dollars, and frankly new dollars, to help have more of these community-based grants to help not only individual homeowners harden and be protected from wildfire, but the whole community.

This article was first published by the Oregon Capital Chronicle, part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oregon Capital Chronicle maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Julia Shumway for questions: info@oregoncapitalchronicle.com.
Chinese-style metro stations, cute pandas, and Chinese brands everywhere -- Moscow is full of Chinese elements! Ahead of the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, let's explore the city and celebrate China-Russia friendship.

Produced by Xinhua Global Service
May 7OTHELLO  The city of Othello will receive about $1 million from the Washington Senate capital budget for a long-running project for water aquifer storage and recharge.

Othello Mayor Shawn Logan said the money would be used to offset some of the cost of purchasing property for the water reuse facility. Othello city officials have been working on the project for about nine years.

The total cost of the 77.7 acres between North Seventh Avenue and North 14th Avenue along Lee Road was $4.2 million. Logan said the city won't need all the land for the project.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"(The Senate capital budget allocation) will cover most of the cost of the 25 acres we need for the water treatment plant," Logan wrote in response to an email from the Columbia Basin Herald.

The money was allocated at the request of Ninth District Senator Mark Schoesler, R-Ritzville, who said it's proven to be feasible.

The property was part of a three-way deal between the city, the Othello School District and landowners AJ and Jodi Ochoa. The school district purchased the land in 2016 with the tentative plan of building a school, but that never happened, and the property was put up for sale in 2021.

The Ochoa family-owned land was more suitable for the school district's needs. City officials, OSD officials and the landowners worked out a swap with the school district, which then allowed the 14th Street property to be sold to the city.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

City Engineer Robin Adolphsen said in March the facility is in the process of design.

"We have secured $500,000 in grant money for design work, though an additional $1 million in federal funding originally allocated for design was cut from the federal budget," Logan said. "We have since renewed our request to complete the design phase."

Once the facility is operational, the city will pump surface water during irrigation season from canals operated by the East Columbia Irrigation District. The goal is to reduce dependence on the aquifer that is now the city's only source of supply.

Water levels in the aquifer have declined over the century that Othello has been using it, and the town is growing, adding more demand. Tim Flynn, a consultant working with the city, said in 2023 that the aquifer does recharge during the winter, but over the years hasn't been getting as much money back as was being used.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

City officials have been pursuing the water reuse project to try and recharge the aquifer or at least keep it from declining further.

A pilot project determined that the concept would work; water pumped into the aquifer stayed there. Once that was established, city officials started looking for funding to build a treatment facility. The water will either be pumped into the city's existing water reservoirs for immediate use or be pumped back into the aquifer.

Logan said city officials are looking for funding to help pay for the construction of the facility and have obtained some already.

"We have received $15 million for construction and are actively exploring at least six different funding sources to help bring the project to completion," Logan said.
The outer space around the Earth is already pretty crowded. Now, tech firms are racing to add more.

There are already thousands of satellites hurdling around the Earth in low orbit - many of them are in groups working together called constellations to provide high-speed internet and communication services.

The largest is SpaceXs Starlink, which is made up of more than 7,000 satellites that have been launched since 2019. Now, Amazon is jockeying for position alongside its competitor. This week, it launched the first 27 satellites for its Kuiper broadband internet constellation. The company must launch half of its planned constellation of 3,200 satellites by July of next year to retain its federal license. SpaceX also plans to send up tens of thousands more.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But, these and other satellite companies  such as the Chinese internet constellations Guowang and Qianfan  are setting up a space future fraught with peril, according to experts. More satellites shooting around the Earth at 17,500 miles per hour will mean a greater chance of potentially calamitous collisions.

If we dont do something to start correcting this problem, in 50 years Kessler Syndrome is going to be a reality and low-Earth orbit is going to useless, Dr. John Crassidis, a professor at the University of Buffalo who works with NASA, the military, and other agencies to monitor space debris, told The Independent.

Amazon launched the first of its Kuiper satellites this week, hoping to become competitive with SpaceXs Starlink constellation. But, low-Earth orbit is already crowded and experts say it could get a whole lot worse. (AFP via Getty Images)

Kessler Syndrome is a nightmare space scenario in which the number of satellites and orbital debris is so high that collisions occur, generating a cascading series of collisions.

Hugh Lewis, a professor of astronautics at the U.K.-based University of Southampton who served as a U.K. Space Agency delegate to the European Space Agencys Space Mission Planning Advisory Group said that Earth has been headed toward a perilous future for decades, but a one-off event isnt the biggest concern.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I just dont think that we can safely manage the number of satellites that are being contemplated; not with our existing knowledge of the space environment, he said.

When the satellites crash into each other is anyones guess, according to Dr. Jonathan McDowell, an astrophysicist at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.

Well see more and more satellites doing avoidance maneuvers. What is the point at which they start to actually crash into one another because the algorithms arent good enough? We just dont know, he explained.

In addition to constellation satellites, there are tens of thousands of other objects and hundreds of thousands of even smaller pieces that cannot be monitored. Active satellites have already been damaged by debris and the International Space Station needs to maneuver away from an object should the chance of a collision exceed one-in-10,000.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Starlink is moving satellites closer to the space station, McDowell noted. Chinese systems are going to higher orbits, where and could remain for centuries.

There are already tens of thousands of other objects and hundreds of thousands of smaller pieces in low-Earth orbit. The smaller pieces are still concerning (ESA)

Crassidis called the current situation uncharted territory.

But, its stuff between one centimeter and 10 that were really worried about because we cant see that stuff. Im worried about astronauts. Theyre exposed when theyre doing their spacewalks, and a piece of debris that size can go right through them, he said.

But, a solution to these worrying consequences has not yet been found. SpaceX is bringing down older satellites, but there are questions about the impact of that decision on Earths atmosphere.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There are also regulatory questions. To McDowell, theres the appearance of regulation, but its pretty loose. To Lewis, the regulation is there, but is interpreted differently by each nation, resulting in an uneven playing field.

In principle, they say what altitudes theyre going to be at, at least. But it turns out that the plus or minus on that is so big as to make it almost meaningless, McDowell said.

SpaceX has been launching its Starlink satellites since 2019 and have more planned. (Getty Images)

We dont have any modern day treaties. We gotta get some treaties, and we know the bad actors are Russia and China, Crassidis said. We need to get some treaties in place to slow down the growth and buys us the time because todays science fiction is tomorrows reality.

There are also the scientific costs to consider, although SpaceX has accommodated astronomers concerns about brightness. The satellites can block out the stars, and potentially other objects. Their radio emissions can also disrupt work in deep space. As NASA heads to the moon and Mars, it will need to navigate these impacts and the debris field.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That will be challenging for the space agency and tech firms to manage in the coming decades.

Everythings getting harder, I think. I dont see any change to that. At some point, something will go wrong, I have no doubt, said Lewis.
Poachers killed over 100 rhinos in South Africa in the first three months of 2025, according to South African Environment Minister Dion George.

From Jan. 1 to March 31, 103 rhinos were killed, and 65 of those were poached in South African national parks, George said in a statement on Monday, May 5.

The loss of 103 rhinos to poaching in the first three months of 2025 is a stark reminder of the relentless threat to our wildlife, George said, before noting that some progress has been made. "Yet, the absence of poaching in four provinces shows that our targeted interventions are yielding results, and we must build on this progress.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2024, 420 rhinos were lost, with an average of 35 rhinos killed per month versus the 2025 average of 34 per month. "In the last decade, poachers have killed almost 10,000 rhinos across Africa to feed the demand for horn on the black market," the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reports.

South Africa has the largest rhino population, with approximately 16,000 to 18,000 black and white rhinos in the country, according to conservation groups. Black rhinos are listed as critically endangered. Around 6,400 are left in all of Africa, and 2,000 of those are in South Africa, per the International Rhino Foundation.

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.

Lu Zexin/Xinhua via Getty Rhinos are seen at Nairobi National Park in Nairobi, Kenya, Feb. 23, 2025. Rhinos are seen at Nairobi National Park in Nairobi, Kenya, Feb. 23, 2025.

Related: Northern White Rhinos Could Be Saved from Extinction Thanks to Species First IVF Pregnancy

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The International Rhino Foundation said that rhino horn is "a lucrative, illicit commodity sought after by well-established, organized and powerful transnational criminal syndicates."

George's May 5 announcement follows the 15 arrests and five prosecutions against people for rhino poaching and related offenses in South Africa. On April 30, one man from Mozambique, Nelson Sambo, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for rhino poaching and related offenses. Mozambique, which borders South Africa, is known to be a key transit and recruitment hub for poaching syndicates.

In August 2024, Mozambican poaching "kingpin" Simon Ernesto Valoi was sentenced to 27 years in prison, per the Wildlife Justice Commission. He was convicted of running an operation poaching rhinos in South Africa's huge Kruger National Park  which borders Mozambique.



Read the original article on People
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  Nearly 35 pets were rescued from uninhabitable conditions on Tuesday morning at a Hamburg residence and more are expected to be rescued later, the SPCA Serving Erie County announced.

Thirty-one cats and kittens and three dogs, all infested with fleas, were rescued from condemned, unsanitary conditions. The cats and kittens had mats of feces in their fur and were covered in urine, the SPCA said.

Humane traps were set up at the Hamburg residence to save more cats later Tuesday. Many of them were underweight.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The SPCA said animal cruelty charges are pending.

The shelter has now rescued 46 cats and kittens as of Friday. They said they are returning to the residence every day to save more animals and have placed more traps for the remaining cats.

Dog admissions at the SPCA are still closed at its West Seneca location following the rescue of 22 Shih Tzu-poodle mixes in mid-April.

If you are struggling to care for animals, you can still visit the SPCA website or call (716) 875-7360 ext. 214.

Latest Local News

Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
The closure of Russian airports following drone attacks on 67 May disrupted travel plans for at least 60,000 passengers and affected at least 350 flights.

Source: The Moscow Times, citing data from the Association of Tour Operators in Russia (ATOR)

Details: ATOR warned that "this delay will trigger further delays like a domino effect" and urged citizens to check the status of their flights.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At Vnukovo Airport alone, around 50 flights were cancelled and over 45 delayed by more than an hour. Forty-three planes were diverted to other airports including Pulkovo, Mineralnye Vody, Ufa, Perm, Saratov and others. At Sheremetyevo Airport, about 100 flights were cancelled and at least 50 delayed. Domodedovo Airport cancelled 20 departures, with more than 70 arrivals delayed.

The air traffic restrictions extended beyond Moscow, affecting Sochi, Kazan, Kirov, Nizhnekamsk, Kaluga, Volgograd, Saratov, Samara, Ivanovo, Yaroslavl, Tambov and other cities. In addition, over 30 cities in the central part of Russia experienced internet disruptions.

Airlines including Aeroflot, Rossiya, Pobeda, S7, Ural Airlines, Nordwind, NordStar and Azur Air announced flight consolidations or cancellations.

Background:

Several Russian airlines cancelled dozens of flights on 7 May following drone strikes on Russia.

On the night of 67 May, drones attacked defence industry facilities in several Russian oblasts, causing major fires.

Earlier, Russian authorities claimed that their air defence supposedly downed seven drones flying towards the city of Moscow on the night of 6-7 May. Due to the drone threat, Sheremetyevo Airport was also temporarily closed.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO)  Avera is taking its fight against cancer to the streets of six communities across KELOLAND.

The 37th annual Avera Race Against Cancer is still days away but is already setting records.

This year, we have 7,200-plus people registering and that number continues to climb every time we refresh the database, Avera Foundations Reid Jensen said.

DSU students weigh in on Noems upcoming visit

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Jensen says the former record was 6,840 people in 2012. This year, running or walking, one-mile to a 10K, events will be held in Sioux Falls, Aberdeen, Mitchell, Pierre, Yankton, and Marshall, Minnesota.

When this event started 37 years ago, cancer was one of the words that you just didnt talk about and as its become more mainstream and more people are aware of it, thats where the engagement has come, Jensen said.

I became involved after my mother-in-law passed away, started volunteering, and then when I was diagnosed with breast cancer then my role evolved, I wanted to get more involved, Volunteer Coordinator Jean Snyders said.

This spring marks her 30th year with the event.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It means so much to me, not only because of my diagnosis but everyone else whos heard the words you have cancer. It doesnt just involve the person whos diagnosed but their family and their friends and their support system as well, Snyders said.

The Avera Race Against Cancer raised a record $731,000 last year, funds that stay local, supporting patients and projects.

Whether it comes to the wigs program or items that they use when theyre doing infusions or other treatments or services, everything stays in your local community, Jensen said.

All in an effort to eliminate cancer.

If youd like to participate in the Avera Race Against Cancer, the cost is $35 for adults and $15 for kids ages 16-and-younger.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
BROOKFIELD, Ohio (WKBN)  A portion of state Route 7 in Brookfield was closed for a while as crews worked to remove a truck that had flipped on its side.

Read next: Ruling made on cause of missing Warren mans death

The truck was hauling steel coil and hit a pole and flipped over while traveling southbound near Hubbards Haven campground, in the 1400 block of Route 7 just past the Route 62 split, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The driver was taken to St. Elizabeth Health Center for treatment of injuries, but the drivers condition is unknown at this time.

Route 7 was closed between Stewart Sharon and Chestnut Ridge roads, according to the Brookfield Police Department.

Check back here for updates on this developing story.

Jim Bowser 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.
(WJET/WFXP)  A new Pennsylvania bill could alleviate concerns that casinos have been expressing regarding slot machine requirements.

Senate Bill 666, sponsored by Senator Dan Laughlin, aims to remove the requirement that Category 1 and Category 2 casinos must operate at least 1,500 slot machines on their floor.

Senator Dan Laughlin responds to potential closure of Presque Isle Downs & Casino

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bill will allow casinos to adjust their number of machines, giving them the ability to apply through the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to reduce their machine count by more than 2%.

Presque Isle Down & Casino, which has recently expressed concerns about potentially closing in part to these restrictions, was fined $50,000 in 2024 for operating fewer than the required number of machines.

Laughlin hopes that this new bill will help casinos in the commonwealth thrive.

Competition is fierce, and rigid mandates no longer serve the industry or the public. This bill is

about common sense and keeping our casinos competitive without sacrificing oversight or

revenue, said Laughlin. It gives our gaming industry the flexibility it needs to succeed in todays market while preserving accountability and protecting public interests.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bill will now head to the full Senate for consideration.

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.
ALBANY, N.Y. (WWTI)  A pair of north country New York State troopers were honored at the 49th New York State Police Awards Day Ceremony.

The event held at the New York State Police Academy in Albany paid tribute to the courage and perseverance of agency sworn and non-sworn members.

176 new Troopers graduate from NYS Police School

According to NY State Police Superintendent Steven G. James, a total of 32 individuals and one unit were recognized for their contributions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Here are the north country personnel that received honors:

Investigator Connor G. Sutton  CTIU North (Troop B)

On August 10, 2023, Investigator Sutton (then Trooper Sutton) and K9 Skiff assisted the St. Lawrence County Sheriffs task force in locating a fugitive and a missing person in the town of Russell. The suspect, wanted for shooting his fiancee and failing to appear in court, had been evading capture for weeks and was believed to be armed and dangerous.

While searching the area, Sutton and K9 Skiff located the suspect hiding in an elevated position, armed with a rifle and shotgun, and prepared to ambush officers. After verbal commands were ignored, Sutton deployed K9 Skiff, who engaged the suspect. The suspect fired at law enforcement, and Sutton returned fire, fatally striking him and ending the threat. The missing person was located unharmed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigator Suttons decisive actions and the bravery of K9 Skiff prevented a deadly ambush and likely saved the lives of fellow officers. Sutton earned the Brummer Award, which is the highest award for heroism.

Authorities were searching for fugitive Shawn Sheridan in a wooded area in the town of Russell near the Donnerville Road.

Investigator James T. Egan Jr.  Troop B

On May 16, 2024, while on patrol in the town of Moira, Franklin County, Trooper Egan observed an out-of-control Amish wagon speeding through intersections with only a 4-year-old child inside. Recognizing the imminent danger, Trooper Egan made multiple attempts to stop the runaway horse using his Division vehicle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As the wagon slowed in a grassy area, Trooper Egan exited his vehicle, leapt for the reins, and successfully stopped the horsesustaining injury in the process when he was pinned between the wagon and a tree. Despite being in great pain, he safely removed the child from the wagon. Trooper Egans courageous and selfless actions undoubtedly saved a young life and exemplify the highest standards of the New York State Police.

Egan received the Superintendents Commendation Award for his efforts.

The entire list of honorees 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 WWTI - InformNNY.com.
China's central bank vowed on Wednesday more financial support through relending for sectors including tech innovation, service consumption and elderly care. #XinhuaNews




Pakistans security Cabinet has declared overnight Indian missile strikes inside its territory as an act of war and authorized the countrys military to retaliate, the prime ministers office said on Wednesday.

The National Security Committee called the deadly Indian strikes a naked act of aggression and vowed to respond at a meeting in the capital Islamabad chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

"These illegal acts are blatant violations of Pakistans sovereignty and territorial integrity, which manifestly constituted acts of war under international law," a statement by the premiers office said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The armed forces of Pakistan have duly been authorized to undertake corresponding actions in this regard."

The committee has urged the UN Security Council and the world to recognize the gravity of Indias illegal actions and hold it accountable.

The Pakistani military said earlier Wednesday that 26 people have been killed and 46 others injured in the Indian attacks on Pakistani targets, while three people were reportedly killed on the Indian side.

India launched missile strikes from the air and surface on several areas of Pakistan and Pakistani-controlled parts of the disputed Kashmir region, saying it was targeting the hideouts of militant groups behind a late April attack in the Indian-administered part of Kashmir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke to both Pakistani and Indian national security advisers overnight in efforts aimed at de-escalation in the region.

China, a major power in the region and a close political ally of Pakistan, also called for de-escalation, joining calls by several Gulf Arab states and the United Nations.

A person receives treatment for injuries sustained during a suspected Indian missile attack at a hospital in Bahawalpur, following missile strikes by India on cities in Pakistan, as reported by the Pakistani military's Inter Services Public Relations. Hussain Ali/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

A person receives treatment for injuries sustained during a suspected Indian missile attack at a hospital in Bahawalpur, following missile strikes by India on cities in Pakistan, as reported by the Pakistani military's Inter Services Public Relations. Hussain Ali/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
Pakistan has accused India of committing a blatant act of war and promised retaliation after New Delhi launched deadly missile attacks along their contested border in disputed Kashmir, in the worst eruption of violence between the nuclear-armed neighbours in two decades.

In an address before Pakistans parliament on Wednesday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif denounced as cowardly the attack carried out by India, as he repeated Islamabads assertion it had nothing to do with the April 22 Pahalgam attack in the Indian-administered Kashmir region.

He said Pakistans response to the attack, which included the downing of Indian fighter jets, proved that the country was prepared to knock enemy planes off into the sea.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Before his address, Sharif presided over a National Security Committee meeting, during which Pakistani officials condemned the illegal acts of India, describing them as blatant violations of Pakistans sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The deliberate targeting of civilians, including innocent women and children, by the Indian military constitutes a heinous and shameful crime, that is in violation of all norms of human behaviour and the provisions of international law, a committee statement said.

Earlier, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif also declared that Islamabad wont take long to settle the score and said military operations were already under way.

India launched a huge military bombardment overnight called Operation Sindoor, striking nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir and killing at least 26 people. In response, Pakistan said it struck Indian military targets and claimed to have shot down several warplanes, resulting in at least 10 deaths.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Residents of Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, said they fled their homes and ran into surrounding hills as India launched air attacks on part of the city.

The whole house moved. Everyone got scared, we all evacuated, took our kids and went up [into the hills], Muhammad Shair Mir, 46, told the Reuters news agency.

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said on Wednesday that New Delhi carried out the attacks after its intelligence monitoring showed that further attacks against India were impending.

Therefore, it was necessary to take preemptive and precautionary strikes, he said, during a joint news conference with top Indian military commanders.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The military added that it targeted terrorist camps that served as recruitment centres, launchpads, and indoctrination centres, and sites housing weapons and training facilities.





Pahalgam attack

The strikes followed an attack on tourists in Pahalgam in Indian-administered Kashmir in March, which New Delhi blamed on Pakistan-backed armed groups.

In New Delhi, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also called an emergency cabinet meeting to discuss the latest deadly exchange, India-based journalist Neha Poonia told Al Jazeera.

Poonia also reported that Modi had cancelled his trip to Europe after the fighting broke out.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Modi has yet to respond to allegations by Pakistan that he carried out the attacks to shore up domestic support.

While India insisted that the attacks only targeted armed groups, Pakistan claimed that many of those who were killed and wounded were civilians, including four children.

In Punjab, the Pakistani military also claimed that Indian missiles hit a mosque in the city of Bahawalpur, killing a child and wounding two other people.

Al Jazeeras Kamal Hyder, reporting from Islamabad, said that in response to the Indian attacks, Pakistans air force has launched retaliatory operations and claimed to have downed Indian military aircraft, including a Sukhoi and MiG jets.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Pakistani air force said that its jet fighters have not crossed into Indian airspace during the operation, and they said that all its aircraft have returned to base unharmed.

A girl from a village near the Line of Control between India and Pakistan, who was injured during shelling by Pakistan, is treated at a hospital in Uri, Indian-administered Kashmir [Nasir Kachroo/AP]

There was no immediate response from the Indian military about the attacks, Hyder said.

Meanwhile, our correspondent said funeral rites are set to begin for those killed in the Indian attacks, which hit cities Muzaffarabad and Kotli, both in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Earlier, Hyder also reported that heavy shelling had resumed on the Line of Control that separates Pakistan-administered Kashmir from Indian-administered Kashmir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The escalation is something that everyone is watching to see  what Pakistans next reaction would be, he said.

Pakistan warns India is playing with fire

In an interview with Al Jazeera, former Pakistani Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar blamed India for the unprovoked and unsubstantiated attack against her country, adding that New Delhi is playing with fire.

Khar said Islamabad has been warning the world about Indias lack of adherence to international law regarding the situation in Kashmir.

Now it has upped the ante of being the aggressor and operating with impunity, she said.

Diplomats have piled pressure on leaders of both countries to step back.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan, the spokesperson for UN chief Antonio Guterres, Stephane Dujarric, said in a statement.

United States President Donald Trump said the clashes were a shame.

I just hope it ends very quickly, Trump said at the White House.

China, which shares land borders with both countries and is a close ally of Pakistan, said it expressed regret over Indias military action this morning and was concerned about the current developments.

The United Kingdom is ready to support both India and Pakistan to de-escalate tensions, Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said on Wednesday.
At least 26 people were killed in Indian attacks on Pakistani targets, the Pakistani military has said.

A statement from the military also said that 46 people were injured.

Earlier, India launched missile strikes across the border into Pakistan, claiming to be targeting the hideouts of militant groups behind a late April attack in the disputed region of Kashmir in which at least 26 civilians were killed.

At least three civilians were killed by Pakistani shelling in the Indian-controlled part of the disputed Kashmir region, according to Indian reports.

A person receives treatment for injuries sustained during a suspected Indian missile attack at a hospital in Bahawalpur, following missile strikes by India on cities in Pakistan, as reported by the Pakistani military's Inter Services Public Relations. Hussain Ali/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Security personnel cordon off the area following a plane crash in Pampore, as tensions rise after India launched air strikes on Pakistan on May 7. Basit Zargar/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Wreckage of Indian Air force fighter jet after fell down in Wuyan Pampore south kashmir. India launched airstrikes on Pakistan. Basit Zargar/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Indian Air Force personnel arrive at the Wuyan area of Pampore, where an unidentified fighter jet reportedly crashed after India launched 'Operation Sindoor,' striking nine sites in Pakistan. According to Pakistani officials, the missile attacks killed at least eight people and wounded more than 35, with Islamabad vowing a robust response to what it called an 'act of war.' Saqib Majeed/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Advertisement Advertisement
Twenty-six people have been killed and 46 others injured in Indian attacks on Pakistani targets, the Pakistani military said on Wednesday, while three people were reportedly killed on the Indian side.

India launched missile strikes from the air and surface on several areas of Pakistan and Pakistani-controlled parts of the disputed Kashmir region, saying it was targeting the hideouts of militant groups behind a late April attack in the Indian-administered part of Kashmir - in which at least 26 civilians were killed.

India's Defence Ministry said in a statement in the early hours of Wednesday that at least nine sites were targeted in Pakistan and Pakistani-controlled Kashmir from "where terrorist attacks against India have been planned."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The targets are "terrorist infrastructure," the ministry said. "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature," it continued. "No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted."

Islamabad called India's actions "an unprovoked and blatant act of war" and a "flagrant violation of the UN Charter, international law, and established norms of inter-state relations."

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan had "every right to give a befitting reply to this act of war imposed by India and a befitting reply is being given."

Sharif was on Wednesday meeting his security Cabinet, including the military and intelligence chiefs to discuss the situation that had brough the nuclear-armed rivals to the brink, his office said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Information Minister Attaullah Tarar meanwhile said Pakistani missiles had shot down five Indian fighter jets.

Pakistani military sources told dpa they had started targeting military infrastructure on the Indian-controlled side of Kashmir.

India also reported casualties: Local media cited the army as saying that at least three civilians were killed in Pakistani shelling in the Indian-controlled part of Kashmir.

The Pakistani military fired indiscriminately across the line of control, the de facto frontier dividing Kashmir into two parts, media reports quoted the Indian military sources as saying.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The reports cited the Indian Army as saying it would respond to the shelling "in a proportionate manner."

Bahawalpur, one of the areas of Pakistan targeted by India, is said to be the town where the militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed (Army of Mohammed), accused by New Delhi of being behind several deadly cross-border attacks, is based.

A small town near the eastern city of Lahore was also hit. Another anti-India militant group, Lashkar-e-Taiba (Army of the Pure), is allegedly based there.

India's strikes also targeted the city of Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistani-administered Kashmir, and a small town called Kotli in the same region, the military said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistan on Wednesday reopened its airspace for commercial planes and restored flights operations from all international airports after a brief closure in the wake of Indian missile strikes, an official said.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke to both Pakistani and Indian national security advisers overnight in efforts aimed at de-escalation in the region.

China, a major power in the region and a close political ally of Pakistan, also called for de-escalation, joining calls by several Gulf Arab states and the United Nations.

Tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours have escalated since April 22, when at least 26 people were killed in a militant attack on a group of tourists in the town of Pahalgam, in Indian-administered Kashmir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

New Delhi pointed the finger at Islamabad, accusing it of supporting the militants. Pakistan denied having any role and offered to hold an independent investigation.

The South Asian nations have fought three wars since their independence in 1947 and pulled back from the brink of a fourth one over contested Kashmir, a picturesque Himalayan valley divided in parts mostly between the two countries, with China also controlling two smaller parts of it. India and Pakistan both claim Kashmir in its entirety.
Eight people have been killed and 33 others injured in Indian attacks on Pakistani targets, the Pakistani military said early on Wednesday, while three people were killed on the Indian side, according to reports.

India launched missile strikes from air and surface on at least nine locations inside Pakistan, saying it was targeting the hideouts of militant groups behind a late April attack in the disputed region of Kashmir - in which at least 26 civilians were killed.

Pakistani military spokesman Major General Sharif Chaudhry had earlier said 24 missiles targeted six locations, mostly mosques and associated residential quarters, killing eight people and wounding 33. Another two people were missing, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

India's Defence Ministry said in a statement in the early hours of Wednesday that at least nine sites were targeted in Pakistan and Pakistani-controlled Kashmir from "where terrorist attacks against India have been planned."

The targets are "terrorist infrastructure," the ministry said in a statement.

"Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature," the statement said. "No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted."

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said in a brief statement that India, which he referred to as "the cunning enemy," had "carried out a cowardly attack on six places in Pakistan."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Pakistan has every right to give a befitting reply to this act of war imposed by India and a befitting reply is being given," Sharif continued.

The Pakistani Foreign Ministry did not give an exact number of victims, but said that women and children were among them. Previously, intelligence sources had reported that a child had been killed after missiles hit a mosque in the city of Bahawalpur in eastern Pakistan's Punjab.

Information Minister Atta Tarar meanwhile said Pakistani missiles had shot down five Indian fighter jets and an unmanned aerial vehicle.

India also reported casualties: local media cited the army as saying that at least three civilians were killed in Pakistani shelling in the Indian-controlled part of Kashmir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Pakistani military fired indiscriminately across the line of control, the de facto frontier dividing Kashmir into two parts, media reports quoted military sources as saying.

The reports cited the Indian Army as saying it would respond to the shelling "in a proportionate manner."

Pakistani military sources told dpa they had started targeting military infrastructure on the Indian side of Kashmir.

Bahawalpur, one of the areas of Pakistan targeted by India, is said to be the town where the militant group Jaish-e-Muhammad, accused by New Delhi of being behind several deadly cross-border attacks, is based.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A small town near the eastern city of Lahore was also hit. Another anti-India militant group, Lashkar-e-Toiba, is allegedly based there.

India's strikes also targeted the city of Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistani-administered Kashmir, and a small town called Kotli in the same region, the military said.

Tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours have escalated since April 22, when at least 26 people were killed in a militant attack on a group of tourists in the town of Pahalgam, in Indian-administered Kashmir.

New Delhi pointed the finger at Islamabad, accusing it of supporting the militants. Pakistan denied having any role and offered to hold an independent investigation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The conflict started hours after global bodies, including the United Nations and major world powers, urged the nuclear-armed rivals to exercise maximum restraint and avoid a direct conflict.

The South Asian nations have fought three wars since their independence in 1947 and pulled back from the brink of a fourth one over contested Kashmir, a picturesque Himalayan valley divided in parts between the two countries.
Eight people have been killed and 33 others injured in Indian attacks on Pakistani targets, the Pakistani military said early on Wednesday.

India launched missile strikes from air and surface on at least six locations inside Pakistan, claiming to target the hideouts of militant groups behind a late April attack in the disputed region of Kashmir in which at least 26 civilians were killed.

Pakistani military spokesman Major General Sharif Chaudhry said 24 missiles targeted six locations, mostly mosques and associated residential quarters, killing eight people and wounding 33. Another two people were missing, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Foreign Ministry did not give an exact number of victims, but said that women and children were among them. Previously, intelligence sources had reported that a child had been killed after missiles hit a mosque in the city of Bahwalpur in eastern Pakistan's Punjab.

Information Minister Atta Tarar said Pakistani missiles had shot down five Indian fighter jets and an unmanned aerial vehicle.

Bahawalpur is said to be the town where the militant group Jaish-e-Muhammad, which India had accused of being behind several deadly cross-border attacks, is based.

A small town near the eastern city of Lahore was also hit. Another anti-India militant group, Lashkar-e-Toiba, is allegedly based there.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

India's strikes also targeted the city of Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistani-administered Kashmir, and a small town called Kotli in the same region, the military said.

India's Defence Ministry said in a statement in the early hours of Wednesday that at least nine sites were targeted in Pakistan and Pakistani-controlled Kashmir from "where terrorist attacks against India have been planned."

The targets are "terrorist infrastructure," the ministry said in a statement.

"Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature," the statement said. "No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said his country reserved the right to retaliate for the "cowardly" attack.

Pakistani military sources told dpa they had started targeting military infrastructure on the Indian side of Kashmir.

Tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours have escalated since April 22, when at least 26 people were killed in a militant attack on a group of tourists in the town of Pahalgam, in Indian-administered Kashmir.

New Delhi pointed the finger at Islamabad, accusing it of supporting the militants. Pakistan denied having any role and offered to hold an independent investigation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The conflict started hours after global bodies, including the United Nations and major world powers, urged the nuclear-armed rivals to exercise maximum restraint and avoid a direct conflict.

The South Asian nations have fought three wars since their independence in 1947 and pulled back from the brink of a fourth one over contested Kashmir, a picturesque Himalayan valley divided in parts between the two countries.
Pakistans prime minister has vowed to take revenge for every drop of blood spilt by India in the worst clash for decades between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

In a televised address to the nation, Shehbaz Sharif said a seven-year-old boy was amongst the 26 people killed in a series of Indian missile strikes overnight.

Calling on Pakistanis to show courage, Mr Sharif said: I promise that we will take revenge for every drop of blood of these victims.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But while appearing to threaten an escalation, the prime minister said the Pakistani military had already given a reply from our side to them.

Five warplanes, once the pride of India, now lie in ashes, he said, asserting that the Pakistani air force had shot down five Indian fighter jets, including three French-made Rafales. He claimed that it took only a few hours to bring the Indian military to its knees.

Delhi has yet to provide an official response to the claims. On Wednesday, a French intelligence source told CNN that a Rafale jet had indeed been downed during exchanges of fire.

Sir Keir Starmer told Parliament that Britain was engaging urgently with both Commonwealth countries and encouraging dialogue as well as de-escalation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Donald Trump said: I want to see it stop. And if I can do anything to help, I will be there.

In a 25-minute operation launched just after 1am local time, the Indian armed forces struck nine alleged terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Vikram Misri, the Indian foreign secretary, said the strikes were a measured, non-escalatory response to the massacre of 26 people by armed militants last month in Indian-administered Kashmir.

Camps used to train fighters in Laskhar-e-Taiba, the terror group India accuses of carrying out the Kashmir killings, were struck in the attack, officials added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mr Misri did not directly accuse Pakistan of orchestrating the attack but said features of it tie in with Pakistans long track record of perpetrating cross-border terror.

In his speech, Mr Sharif denied that Pakistan was behind the murders, saying the country was accused for the wrong reasons.

Khawaja Asif, Pakistans defence minister, vowed that Islamabads response would be more significant than their [Indias] actions, but he added that we have already retaliated.

A befitting response

Rana Sanaullah, a senior adviser to the prime minister, signalled that any further Pakistani military action would be limited, given the claimed destruction of Indian jets.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We have given a befitting response, he told reporters after a meeting of the National Security Committee in Islamabad. If they [India] do further actions, then we will give an even more befitting response.

Both sides may want to tamp down tensions and avoid a protracted dispute, said Dr Walter Ladwig, an associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute, a London-based think tank.

Pakistans economy is a basket case and India would prefer to focus on building up its own to rival China in the region, he said.

By maintaining that five fighter jets have already been shot down, Islamabad may feel it has a way out of having to strike across India.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hindu-majority India and Muslim-majority Pakistan have fought several wars over Kashmir since the two nations were divided at the end of British colonial rule in 1947.

Artillery fire is regularly exchanged over the Line of Control through Kashmir. Pakistans army says it operates a quid pro quo plus policy, striking back slightly harder in every instance of tit-for-tat fighting across the border.

07:57 PM BST

Thats all for today

Thanks for following our live coverage of the conflict between India and Pakistan. It has now ended for the day. Heres a recap of what happened:

India launched missile strikes targeting nine locations overnight

Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistans prime minister, has accused India of an act of war

Pakistani army responded with heavy mortar shelling on villages along the Line of Control in Poonch and Rajouri

Air India and Qatar Airways suspended flights

Pakistan shot down five Indian planes, a spokesman for Pakistans army said

At least seven people were killed in cross-border shelling in Indian administered Kashmir, a top official said

07:46 PM BST

Britains tragic decision that sealed Kashmirs fate

On July 8 1947, a senior British barrister called Cyril Radcliffe arrived for the first time in India and was handed an impossible job.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The British were leaving the subcontinent, and the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League  the parties led by Jawaharlal Nehru and Muhammad Ali Jinnah respectively  had agreed to partition India to allow the creation of Pakistan as a homeland for the sub-continents Muslims.

They could not agree on a border, and both they and Lord Mountbatten, the British viceroy, wanted one drawn by Independence, which was scheduled for August 15.

Radcliffe, whose ignorance of the country was seen as a guarantee of his impartiality, had just five weeks to decide the fate of millions of people.

In the West, Radcliffe drew a red line dividing Pakistan from India from the Arabian Sea to the top of Punjab. But when he reached the foothills of Kashmir and Jammu, he stopped. Technically, the highlands feeding the headwaters of the Indus river were in one of the Princely states of British India.

07:23 PM BST

Violent events in disputed area trebled in April

The number of violent events per month in the disputed area of Jammu and Kashmir trebled in April compared to March, Telegraph data analysis shows.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The map below shows where many of these violent events took place, including in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, and Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan.

07:06 PM BST

Trump wants terrible conflict to stop

Donald Trump has said he wants the conflict between India and Pakistan to stop.

Speaking on Wednesday, the US president said: My position is I get along with both. I know both very well, and I want to see him work it out.

Mr Trump also offered to help the two neighbouring countries resolve the conflict.

I want to see him stop and hopefully they can stop now theyve gone tit for tat, so hopefully they can stop now, but I know both, we get along with both the countries, very well, good relationships with both and I want to see it stop and if I can do anything to help, I will be there.

07:01 PM BST

Drills take place across India

Civil defence exercises took place in schools and workplaces across India today as the country prepared for the prospect of a retaliatory attack by Pakistan.

Security personnel and students take part in a drill conducted as a part of the nationwide civil defence exercise - Shutterstock

06:36 PM BST

How Pakistans military stacks up against India

India has launched military strikes against Pakistan, putting the two nuclear-armed neighbours on the brink of an all-out war.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The flare-up means that two of the regions largest militaries are again in face-to-face conflict.

The stand-off pits India, a global defence giant, against a country that may be far smaller, but is nevertheless heavily militarised and has dedicated a significant share of its resources to preparing for war.

As the worlds most populous nation, India has one of the worlds largest militaries, numbering around 1.4 million active service personnel, which include 1.2 million in the army, 60,000 in the navy and 127,000 in the air force. India also has 1.6 million-strong paramilitary forces and a reserve of 1.1 million.

The country is a defence expenditure heavyweight. Its defence spend reached 58 billion ($77.4 billion) in 2024, the second-highest outlay in Asia after China.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Meanwhile, Pakistans population is a fifth of the size and the country has been mired in an economic crisis for years.

06:23 PM BST

Death toll from India attack rises to 31

Pakistans military says the death toll from Indias missile attack has risen to 31.

Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistans prime minister, just confirmed that a seven-year-old boy was killed in the attacks alongside his mother.

Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, director general of inter-services public relations (DG ISPR), blamed the rising civilian toll on what he called Indias unprovoked aggression.

Any condemnation is not enough, Maj Gen Chaudhry told reporters in Rawalpindi.

The strikes on 6 and 7 May have unmasked Indias true character. Our enemy is so weak and frightened that it resorts to targeting civilians and population centres under the cover of darkness, rather than confronting our armed forces directly.

06:18 PM BST

Analysis: How the conflict could spiral into full-scale war

David Blair, the Telegraphs Chief Foreign Affairs Commentator, analyses why decades of tension between India and Pakistan could boil over into a full-scale war.

06:14 PM BST

India made a mistake, Pakistan PM says

Pakistans prime minister has just accused India of making a mistake by firing missiles at Pakistan overnight.

Pakistans prime minister Shehbaz Sharif said: This is a nation of courageous people who have high aims. They respect their country and protect their country.

They will fight until the last drop of their blood.

He also said the countrys air force defended strongly against Indias missile attacks, which he said was a reply from our side to them.

Shehbaz Sharif said India would have to suffer the consequences of its attack as he claimed that the air force had shot down five Indian fighter jets, including three French-made Rafales.

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.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday said his countrys air force shot down five Indian fighter jets in overnight clashes between the nuclear-armed rivals.

At least three French-manufactured Rafale jets were among the planes hit by Pakistani missiles fired from both the air and surface across the de facto frontier in the disputed region of Kashmir, Sharif said in an address to the parliament.

The clashes between the South Asian nuclear powers erupted overnight after India launched multiple missile strikes inside Pakistan to target hideouts of terrorist groups New Delhi blames for last months deadly attack in Kashmir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At least 26 people were killed and nearly four dozen were wounded in Indian attacks on six locations, the Pakistani military said.

"Up to 80 Indian fighter jets were airborne during the attack, but Pakistani forces chased them away. Five were downed," Sharif said as he praised the response for his countrys air force.

Sharifs security Cabinet declared the Indian strikes as an act of war and authorized the military to retaliate earlier in the day, in a move that could the South Asian region to the brink of another war.

Sharif, however, did not say any word about any further escalation in his brief speech in parliament.
A damaged mosque is seen after an overnight Indian missile attack in Bahawalpur district, Punjab province, eastern Pakistan on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Photo by Mansoor Abbas/Xinhua)

ISLAMABAD, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said.

India attacked houses and mosques, targeting civilians in the Pakistan-controlled Kashmir and the country's east Punjab province, Director General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry told media in a briefing.

He confirmed that the Pakistan Air Force shot down five Indian fighter jets, including three Rafales, one MiG-29, one Sukhoi, and a combat drone whose debris fell inside Indian territory. "None of the Pakistani aircraft went inside Indian airspace," he added.

The ISPR chief said several posts and a brigade headquarters of the Indian army were targeted in Pakistan's retaliatory action.

Pakistani Air Force launched the attack only after India carried out "the unprovoked, uncalled-for aggression against the territorial integrity, and the innocent people of Pakistan by firing at them through standoff weapons."

In this incident, India targeted and damaged the Nausari dam structure of the Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower Project in Muzaffarabad district, Chaudhry said, adding "targeting hydro infrastructure is an unacceptable and dangerous escalation."

The ISPR chief said that at the time of the attack, scores of national and international flights were in Pakistan's airspace and thousands of civilian passengers' lives were put in grave danger.

Chaudhry said that Pakistan will retaliate in response to the attack which happened in "the darkness of the night," adding that last night's actions from Pakistan were only a retaliation in self-defense.

"Pakistan reserves the right and will respond to this aggression at a time, place, and means of our own choice," he noted. 

This photo taken with mobile phone on May 7, 2025 shows a damaged building following an Indian missile attack in Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-controlled Kashmir. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Photo by Muhammad Din Mughal/Xinhua)

Destroyed houses are seen at a residential area after an Indian missile attack in Bahawalpur district, Punjab province, eastern Pakistan on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Photo by Mansoor Abbas/Xinhua)

A damaged mosque is seen at a residential area after an Indian missile attack in Bahawalpur district, Punjab province, eastern Pakistan on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Photo by Mansoor Abbas/Xinhua)

Destroyed houses are seen at a residential area after an Indian missile attack in Bahawalpur district, Punjab province, eastern Pakistan on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Photo by Mansoor Abbas/Xinhua)

A damaged mosque is seen at a residential area after an Indian missile attack in Bahawalpur district, Punjab province, eastern Pakistan on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Photo by Mansoor Abbas/Xinhua)

A destroyed building is seen after an Indian missile attack in Muridke, a town near Lahore, Pakistan on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Photo by Sajjad/Xinhua)

People walk through rubble of a destroyed building after an Indian missile attack in Muridke, a town near Lahore, Pakistan on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Photo by Sajjad/Xinhua)

An ambulance is seen near destroyed buildings after an Indian missile attack in Muridke, a town near Lahore, Pakistan on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Photo by Sajjad/Xinhua)

Women walk through rubble of a destroyed building after an Indian missile attack in Muridke, a town near Lahore, Pakistan on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Photo by Sajjad/Xinhua)

A destroyed building is seen after an Indian missile attack in Muridke, a town near Lahore, Pakistan on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Photo by Sajjad/Xinhua)

A destroyed building is seen after an Indian missile attack in Muridke, a town near Lahore, Pakistan on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Photo by Sajjad/Xinhua)

People inspect the damage of an Indian missile attack in Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Photo by Muhammad Din Mughal/Xinhua)

People inspect the damage of an Indian missile attack in Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Photo by Muhammad Din Mughal/Xinhua)

People inspect the damage of an Indian missile attack in Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Photo by Muhammad Din Mughal/Xinhua)

People inspect the damage of an Indian missile attack in Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Photo by Muhammad Din Mughal/Xinhua)

Photo taken on May 7, 2025 shows a building damaged in an Indian missile attack in Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-controlled Kashmir. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Photo by Muhammad Din Mughal/Xinhua)

People inspect the damage of an Indian missile attack in Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Photo by Muhammad Din Mughal/Xinhua)

This photo taken with mobile phone shows a damaged clock in debris of a building destroyed in an Indian missile strike in Muridke, a town near Lahore, Pakistan on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Xinhua/Jamil Bhatti)

This photo taken with mobile phone shows a building destroyed in an Indian missile strike in Muridke, a town near Lahore, Pakistan on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Xinhua/Jamil Bhatti)

This photo taken with mobile phone shows locals standing in debris of a building destroyed in an Indian missile strike in Muridke, a town near Lahore, Pakistan on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Xinhua/Jamil Bhatti)

This photo taken with mobile phone shows rescuers examining a building destroyed in an Indian missile strike in Muridke, a town near Lahore, Pakistan on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Xinhua/Jamil Bhatti)

This photo taken with mobile phone shows fragments of Indian missiles displayed near damaged buildings in Muridke, a town near Lahore, Pakistan on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Xinhua/Jamil Bhatti)

This photo taken with mobile phone shows rescuers examining a building destroyed in an Indian missile strike in Muridke, a town near Lahore, Pakistan on May 7, 2025. Twenty-six people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. (Xinhua/Jamil Bhatti)
A Palm Beach County School District employee is facing multiple charges stemming from allegations that a year ago he molested two girls, who were 6 years old at the time, court records show.

Norman Riemer, 54, was arrested on April 30 and is facing five counts of lewd or lascivious molestation against a victim under the age of 12.

A probable cause affidavit for his arrest says he is a Palm Beach County School District official but does not specify his position. He is listed in a school district staff directory as a Secondary Education curriculum development and school improvement instruction specialist.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One of the alleged victims, now 7 years old, told a case coordinator in an interview at the Child Protection Team office in West Palm Beach that Riemer was watching her at his home, and he permitted her to touch his penis, as well as the second alleged victim, the heavily-redacted probable cause affidavit said. The victim said it happened three more times.

The girl also told authorities that Riemer had touched her inappropriately once when she was in his bedroom, according to the affidavit. The second victim told authorities that she reported what happened to someone whose name is redacted in the affidavit after remembering it.

Riemer in a meeting at someones home in late March admitted and confessed to all who were present, the affidavit said. The identities of those who were at the meeting at the home are redacted.

Norman confessed to the inappropriate conduct, claiming it happened three times and described the unlawful sexual activity as a science experiment to satisfy the childrens curiosity, the affidavit said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After that meeting, someone reported the information to a Department of Children and Families hot line the next day, leading to the Sheriffs Office investigation, according to the affidavit.

Spokespersons for the school district did not respond to an email seeking further information about Riemers employment history.

Riemer has pleaded not guilty to all charges, court records show. He remained in the jail Tuesday.

This is a developing story, so check back for updates. Click here to have breaking news alerts sent directly to your inbox.
Attorney General Pam Bondi dismissed allegations that the Jeffrey Epstein files are missing, stating that the FBI is reviewing tens of thousands of videos featuring the disgraced financier with children.

Republican Rep. James Comer said on conservative commentator Benny Johnsons show that he believes the Justice Department doesnt have the Epstein files. I hope theyre not shredding documents right now, the Kentucky Congressman said.

Citing Comers remarks, a reporter asked Bondi on Wednesday morning whether the documents were missing, to which she said: No, the FBI, theyre reviewing tens of thousands of videos of Epstein with children or child porn.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The FBI is diligently going through that, she continued, noting the large volume of files. She added: There are hundreds of victims.

On the campaign trail, Donald Trump committed to releasing the documents related to the disgraced financier, who was accused of sex trafficking of minors. Epstein died behind bars in 2019 awaiting his sex trafficking trial.

The attorney generals update comes after questions have swirled in recent weeks over when the next batch of Epstein files would be released.

Pam Bondi says FBI is diligently reviewing Epstein files after being asked whether they were missing (AP)

Bondi released the first phase of declassified files on February 27. Last week, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt fielded a question about when the bulk of the files are expected to be released, to which she said she doesnt have a specific timeline.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I can assure you that the Attorney General and her team are working on this diligently, Leavitt said, before calling Bondi a bulldog.

Last month, a reporter asked Trump when the public could expect to see the release of more documents. He said he wasnt sure but that hed speak to the attorney general for more information.

I do know that weve done the RFK, the Kennedy, Martin Luther King is out there very shortly, so well find out, Trump added. Weve really announced were doing them in full transparency.

The release of the first tranche of documents was met with some disappointment, even from Trumps MAGA allies.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Florida Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna raged on X: THIS IS NOT WHAT WE OR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE ASKED FOR and a complete disappointment. GET US THE INFORMATION WE ASKED FOR!

Far-right activist Laura Loomer also slammed: There is one person who takes the blame for what happened today. Its @PamBondi. She wrote: I think she should resign. She went on Fox News and said the files were on her desk. Then she went on Fox News last night and said we would have files today. She is a total liar.

Bondis remarks also come weeks after one of Epsteins most outspoken victims, Virginia Giuffre, died by suicide in Australia last week.

Her father later told journalist Piers Morgan that he believes somebody got to her.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I believed everything she said, Sky Roberts, her father, said. She was my daughter.

If you are based in the U.S. and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call the National Suicide Prevention Helpline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). This is a free, confidential crisis hotline available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.

If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can also speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.
Climate change is threatening the Pamunkey Indian Reservation, and now the National Trust for Historic Preservation has named the area as one of the most endangered historic sites in the country.

Settled on a 1,600-acre peninsula in King William County, the reservation is surrounded by the Pamunkey River on three sides. Kendall Stevens, cultural resources director for the Pamunkey Indian Tribe, said like other coastal communities, the reservation is not spared from the struggle of erosion, rising sea levels, sinking land and more severe storms.

A 2019 study of the peninsulas ecosystem found the reservation has about 13 miles of shoreline, 80 acres of emergent wetlands and 530 acres of freshwater forested wetlands, and the Pamunkey River is a tidal river, meaning downstream sections of the river are influenced by ocean tides.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

About 100 people live on the reservation, and Stevens said their goal is to remain as long as the land is habitable. But theres only one road on and off the reservation, so when it floods, residents are sometimes trapped. Other historical sites on the reservation are also at risk of being lost, Stevens said.

Because of this, the National Trust for Historic Preservation announced Wednesday that the reservation is one of 11 new locations added to its list of most endangered historic places in the United States. The reservation is joined by 10 other sites threatened by climate change and aging infrastructure, including the Hotel Casa Blanca  a historically Black resort hotel in Michigan  and the French Broad and Swannanoa River corridors in western North Carolina.

According to the trust, the distinction has galvanized public support for other sites previously added to the list, and only a handful of the 350 sites have been lost completely.

With chief and council approval, the tribe applied for the distinction, and Stevens said she hopes to use it to apply for future funding and gain community support for protecting the land. The tribe already has created a Community Disaster Resilience Zone, but funding and support will be needed to expand their resilience efforts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

First and foremost, we need to do some pretty major shoreline stabilization work, which would include lots of native planting, she said. We also need to do some traditional natural shoreline stabilization. Because of the threat from the water, we want to do some significant archeological work that would be very community focused.

That would include both digging and oral history to hear what elders remember about the reservation and how people relate to reservation today  just lots of documentation and preservation of the historic nature of the res.

Related Articles

The Pamunkey Indian Tribe has been in Virginia for 15,000 years, but because of the changes to the environment, the reservation could be under water in 100 years if no resiliency work is done. And thats a big deal, especially since the Pamunkey people are one of the few tribes to never have ceded their land. Their reservation is considered the oldest extant reservation in the country, with Pocahontas and Wahunsenecawh (also known as Chief Powhatan) being notable members of the tribe.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The tribe is very proud of all the work that generations of tribal people have put in to preserve it, Stevens said. Its kind of ironic that now nature is what might force the Pamunkey people off their land.

Eliza Noe, eliza.noe@virginiamedia.com
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WMBB)  There were about two dozen projects discussed on Tuesday, some have reached or are nearing completion, and some have not been started.

All of the projects are contributing to the citys long-term development plans. Panama Citys Community Redevelopment Agency plans to reinvest tax dollars in communities where theyre needed most.

During the meeting, CRA board members gave a status report on various city-wide projects.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The latest project to reach completion is the bathrooms in McKenzie Park. The $229,000 project was completed about a week ago.

Other McKenzie Park improvements are underway, like new benches, swings, and trash receptacles.

Point Washington Medical Clinic expands hours of operation

Theres the potential for further furnishings depending on the costs of the downtown breezeway rebuild project.

We got a letter from the downtown improvement board kind of asking the city commission and the CRA board to kind of reconsider our development plans for that particular piece of property located at 447 Harrison Avenue and instead look to do something, either a long term lease or even selling it outright with certain requirements as to what the city and the DIB together wanted that project to look like, Panama City City Manager Jonathan Hayes said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The CRA swapped four city-owned parcels of land off West 6th Street in 2022 for the Harrison building. They spent $80,000 to create the breezeway.

City officials have decided to put the property out for bid and already have two bids from developers to be considered at the first June commission meeting.

Its projected to be $550,000. The developer would be required to maintain some type of walkway between Harrison and Grace.

Board members also discussed the potential Glenwood Town Center on the corner of MLK Boulevard and 15th Street.

Bay County becomes growingly involved with Gulf World Marine Park situation

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its really more than a grocery store. Its the Glenwood Town Center, and were very excited about the potential of this project. It is not final yet. At the last meeting, we were given the approval and direction by the board to kind of begin negotiations to get a draft proposal to bring back, Hayes added.

The development could include apartments and townhomes as well.

And the Millville Waterfront Park is at about the halfway point in the development.

Its right there on Watson Bayou in Millville right there, and just a beautiful old part of Panama City. We went in there, we put beautiful new sidewalks, a big new playground, and we repaired the fishing pier. Theres a kayak boat launch right there. Theres all sorts of walking trails and benches, and all that being developed, plants, trees, and parking, Hayes said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The amphitheater is being finalized now.

Another project to look forward to in the next couple of years is dance steps in front of the Martin Theatre.

Theyll be stainless steel numbered footprints, permanently set in the sidewalk, to teach you how to dance the foxtrot or cha cha. Its budgeted at $20,000.

This morning, Bay County commissioners approved the expansion, and it is in the final steps of implementation. For more 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 mypanhandle.com.
Micheal Bergstrom, R-Adair, presents a bill in the Senate chamber on Monday, May 5, 2025. (Photo by Janelle Stecklein/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  A bipartisan Senate panel on Wednesday voted to toss out two rules backed by State Superintendent Ryan Walters that dealt with monitoring student immigration status and that would require teachers to take the U.S. Naturalization Test.

Senate Joint Resolution 22, authored by Sen. Micheal Bergstrom, R-Adair, approved many of the rules, but rejected two of the most controversial.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One disapproved rule would require students to provide proof of U.S. citizenship when enrolling in public school. Under the rule, schools would have to report to the state the number of students who couldnt verify legal residency or citizenship.

Walters has said the rule would help serve immigrant students by better accounting for the resources needed to accommodate them, but he has also said he would turn over the information collected to federal authorities if asked.

The proposed rule has faced bipartisan opposition, including from Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt.

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that every child, regardless of immigration status, has a right to public education.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sen. Michael Brooks, D-Oklahoma City, said the proposed rule is unconstitutional.

In addition to that, Im concerned about the families that would be intimidated and perhaps would choose not to enroll their kids in school based on these requirements, he said.

Brooks, who is a member of the Senate Rules Committee, said the state does not win when children are discouraged from going to school.

A second rule rejected by the Senate panel on Wednesday would require all public school teachers to pass the U.S. Naturalization test to earn or renew their certification. That rule has faced bipartisan opposition amid fears that it would deter qualified teachers from working in the state.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It seems to me more political than policy based, Brooks said. It seems like something to be able to get a headline, but it doesnt seem like something that necessarily helps with curriculum or anything else.

Bergstrom, the resolutions author, chairs the Senate Rules Committee.

Over the last few years, weve been building a consensus of just how important it is for the Legislature to actually take on the job that were tasked with and to reign in agencies that are doing things they shouldnt be doing or when there are errors made that need to be fixed, Bergstrom said after the committee hearing.

Administrative rules are supposed to build upon the laws legislators create.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Because they have the force of law, all rules must be submitted to the Legislature for review. If lawmakers take no action, they go to the governor. If the governor does not act, they automatically take effect.

The governor pledged to block the immigration rule.

Bergstrom said there was probably no legislative authority for the Oklahoma State Department of Education to craft rules pertaining to citizenship checks and naturalization testing.

The measure goes to the full Senate, where Bergstrom said it could be heard as early as next week.

If SJR 22 is approved, the measure goes to the House for consideration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The State Department of Education didnt immediately respond to a request for comment as of publication.

Editor Janelle Stecklein contributed to this report.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
The Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board on Wednesday voted to deny clemency for John Fitzgerald Hanson, who is set to die June 12 for the 1999 slaying of Mary Bowles. (Getty Images) (This image cannot be republished unless you have a Getty subscription.)

OKLAHOMA CITY  The Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board on Wednesday voted 3-2 to decline to recommend clemency for Tulsa County killer John Fitzgerald Hanson.

Hanson, also known as George John Hanson, is set to die June 12 by lethal injection at Oklahoma State Penitentiary in McAlester.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He was sentenced to death for the 1999 shooting death of Mary Bowles, 77, a retired bank executive whom he and his accomplice, Victor Miller, abducted from a Tulsa mall. Bowles was shot four to six times and found at a dirt pit near Owasso.

A bystander, Jerald Thurman, was also killed.

Now is the time for him to atone for the pain and suffering he has wrought, said Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond. Justice will be delivered when the death penalty is rightly served on June 12.

George John Hanson, also known as John Fitzgerald Hanson, was sentenced to death for the 1999 murder of Mary Bowles. (Photo provided by the Oklahoma Department of Corrections)

Hanson was homeless, developmentally disabled and didnt get a fair shot at presenting mitigating evidence, said Callie Heller, his attorney.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As of today, three jurors have come forward with concerns about their death verdict after learning the facts they never heard at trial, she said.

Hanson has expressed remorse and taken responsibility for his role in the crime, she said.

A more culpable defendant is serving life, she said.

Hanson, who was imprisoned for an unrelated crime in Louisiana, was transferred in March to Oklahoma so his execution could be carried out.

The transfer had previously been blocked by the Democrat Joe Bidens administration, but Republican Donald Trumps administration cleared the way for Hansons transfer back to Oklahoma.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Editors note: This story was corrected at 9:37 p.m. Wednesday to reflect that the name of Hansons accomplice is Victor Miller.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
The chat in the UK market is lets keep calm and see what happens.

That was the verdict of Paramount UK boss Sarah Rose on Donald Trump and Jon Voights controversial film and TV tariff plans currently spooking the sector.

More from Deadline

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The UK market is a huge beneficiary of U.S. film and TV production and British film bodies, for one, are already planning to sit down with the government to discuss what could be a dramatic fallout if the tariffs get rubberstamped.

Speaking on a Question Time panel at todays Creative Cities Convention (CCC), Rose appealed for calm.

Its a tweet, she added. There are lots of people analyzing it but the chat in the UK market is to keep calm and lets see what happens.

While Rose held back from commenting in depth given that her bosses are American and currently going through a knotty sales process, she did say, My U.S. colleagues wouldnt say Hollywood is dying in response to some of the POTUSs claims.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The tariff plan is more than just a tweet now, however, with Deadline revealing Voights blueprint in full yesterday.

Jane Turton, who runs The Traitors super-indie All3Media, which has a presence in the States, noted that TV as well as film falls under the tariffs plan per Voights proposal.

Concurring with Rose, she said Trump is not talking about a failing Hollywood but is possibly talking more about tax breaks and incentives. The UK has made a huge success of its relationship with the States and [the U.S.] is still a net exporter of IP, she added.

But Marcus Ryder, who runs the UKs Film & TV Charity, said it is not enough for senior figures like Turton and Rose to simply claim they need more detail.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Often [Trump] tweets stuff and it does become policy, added Ryder. What is disconcerting is youve got two people here saying they dont know what it means and that is disempowering. It means anxiety and uncertainty is sky high with regards what it means to peoples livelihoods.

The panel were speaking at the CCC after YouTube UK boss Alison Lomax. BBC Director General Tim Davie and ITV Studios boss Julian Bellamy will speak tomorrow.

Best of Deadline

Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  The Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board voted to deny clemency for death row inmate John Hanson on Wednesday, May 7.

Officials say Hanson and an accomplice carjacked and kidnapped 77-year-old Mary Bowles in Tulsa in 1999. Before she was shot to death, Hanson and his accomplice shot Jerald Thurman, an innocent bystander.

LOCAL NEWS: Police searching for suspects after shooting leaves one injured in NW OKC

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The families of Mary Bowles and Jerald Thurman have waited more than a quarter-century to see justice carried out against this callous murderer, Drummond said. I appreciate the Pardon and Parole Board for rejecting clemency today. The Biden Administration protected this monster from justice for too long. Now is the time for him to atone for the pain and suffering he has wrought. Justice will be delivered when the death penalty is rightly served on June 12.

According to Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond, Hanson was transferred from a Louisiana federal prison in March at his request.

We heard that John Hanson is a changed man, a responsible and trustworthy member of his prison community and that he expresses remorse for the senseless murder of Mary Bowles. By refusing mercy, the State will now carry out the senseless killing of John Hanson. responded Rev. Don Heath, Oklahoma Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty Chair.

Hansons execution date is set for June 12, 2025.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
As if parents of teens didnt have enough to worry about when it comes to their kids safety, there is now the online network known as 764. The predatory network targets teens and has become the subject of more than 250 FBI investigations that are being tackled by every. single. one. of the Bureaus offices nationwide.

Its a staggering number with a staggering scope, and there is a whole lot that parents need to know about this scary network of predators.

More from SheKnows

What is 764?

According to ABC News, 764 is a loose network of violent predators who seek out and befriend t(w)eens online and then coerce them into sexual and violent behavior. There have been instances of coercing victims into creating graphic child pornography, harming family pets, cutting themselves, or even dying by suicide. Authorities say some 764 members even host watch parties to watch teen victims being coerced live, and/or they share the disturbing content with other members.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We see a lot of bad things, but this is one of the most disturbing things were seeing, said FBI Assistant Director David Scott, the head of the FBIs Counterterrorism Division.

Yes, the Counterterrorism Division plus the Justice Departments National Security Division are now handling many of the investigations tied to 764 and its offshoots or subgroups. They have characterized the top predators as nihilistic violent extremists and say the more gore and violence these predators are able to get out of teens, the higher their stature is within 764.

So its sort of a badge of honor within some of these groups to actually do the most harm to victims, Scott said.

He described some of the main goals of 764 to sow chaos and bring down society. All by preying on teens.

How Are Teens Being Extorted?

In many cases, members of 764 are extorting or sextorting their victims. They are not necessarily looking for money, but for more content. Just one explicit picture can be enough to blackmail a vulnerable teenager into sending more.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Victims may even experience swatting. This is when false reports of crimes are called in to induce SWAT teams to go to the victims house. Just the threat of that scary experience might convince teens to continue to comply with their abuser.

And if youve made it this far, you wont be surprised by the horrifying truth of the perhaps fatal ramifications for teens who try to get out of this cycle. An Arkansas man was arrested for plotting to murder a 14-year-old girl who started resisting his demands. He pleaded guilty earlier this year to said conspiracy and child pornography charges, saying he thought his intended crime would raise his status within 764.

Who is Being Impacted by 764?

Anyone. The FBI has seen some victims as young as 9 years old, there could be thousands of victims worldwide, and there is no reason to think members of 764 are only targeting one demographic or sex. In fact, as of 2023, most victims of sextortion (related to 764 or otherwise) are boys between the ages of 14 and 17.

The FBI has seen a horrific increase in reports of financial sextortion schemes targeting minor boys  and the fact is that the many victims who are afraid to come forward are not even included in those numbers, FBI Director Christopher Wray said at the time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In June 2024, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) found that the primary platforms where teens were being targeted were Instagram and Snapchat.

And if you are thinking, Well, my teen would never get in a situation like this, that is exactly what the Connecticut mom of a teen victim of 764 thought.

And yet, the former honor roll student was arrested for conspiring with a 764 member  who she met on the gaming platform Roblox  to direct bomb threats in her town. When police searched her devices, they also found pornographic photos of herself, photos of self-mutilation, and images of her paying homage to the online network.

It was very difficult to process, because we didnt raise her to engage in that kind of activity, the victims mom told ABC News.

What Can Parents Do To Protect Their Kids From 764?

Everyone can play a role while the FBI works to close these ongoing investigations. We need the help of parents, teachers, and others who may become aware that a child is in danger, Jim Marshall, FBI Miami Public Information Officer, said in a statement, per CBS 12 News.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Authorities encourage parents to watch for changes in their teens activities or personality, be on the lookout for kids wearing long-sleeved clothing on hot days, which could be a sign of covering up self-harm, and check for strange injuries to family pets.

In a previous statement about sextortion, Dave Frattare, Commander of the ICAC Task Force of the Cuyahoga County Ohio Prosecutors Office in Cleveland, has urged parents not to let kids go to bed or be behind closed doors with their phones. Especially not at night, when he says these crimes are most common.

I also urge parents to have a conversation with their kids. Say, Do not ever send naked pictures to anybody, Frattare continued. But if you do get caught up in something like this, come to me no matter what time of day or night it is, and I will help you. We will get through it together.'

Just last year, Teresa Huizar, CEO of National Childrens Alliance, told SheKnows that continually talking to teens about being safe online is the most important thing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kids and teenagers need to know just how good people can be at pretending to be someone they are not. Pictures, social media profiles, voice messages  these can all be falsified, Huizar said. Adolescents also need to understand that any image or video sent on the internet, even if its through private messages or locked accounts, can be made public and distributed.

The adage still stands: If you dont want your grandma to see it, dont send it, text it, or post it, she continued. Lastly, make sure your kids know that if they have sent or received explicit images or someone is trying to harm them, they can open up to you without fear of punishment or judgment, even if theyve broken a rule that youve set for their social media use.

Huizar explained that many victims of sextortion struggle with feelings of shame that stop them from seeking help. Its a heartbreaking reality that predators are quite aware of. Ending the shame-secrecy cycle is critical to exposing and stopping people who want to harm children, she said.

Families impacted by 764 can contact local authorities, the FBI, or, as Huizar says, there are hundreds of Childrens Advocacy Centers across the country that provide a safe environment for children and teens to get help. Just check the National Childrens Alliances website to find the center closest to you.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Before you go, check out recent under-the-radar recalls that could impact your teen.



Best of SheKnows

Sign up for SheKnows' Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Indian paramilitary troopers inquire a motorcyclist at a checkpoint on the outskirts of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir, May 7, 2025. At least nine civilians were killed and over 40 others wounded Wednesday in clashes between Indian and Pakistani troops across the Line of Control in Kashmir, Indian officials said. (Xinhua/Javed Dar)

NEW DELHI, May 7 (Xinhua) -- At least nine civilians were killed and over 40 others wounded Wednesday in clashes between Indian and Pakistani troops across the Line of Control in Kashmir, officials said.

The intense firing started shortly after the Indian military carried out airstrikes inside Pakistan and the Pakistan-controlled Kashmir during the early hours on Wednesday.

Indian army officials said they were effectively responding to the shelling and firing from the Pakistani side.

According to officials, the civilian deaths were reported from the worst-hit Poonch district, 185 km southwest of Srinagar city in the Indian-controlled Kashmir. At least 28 people were also wounded in the firing.

Reports said 10 people, including five minor children, were also wounded in the shelling in Uri sector of Baramulla district, while three others wounded in Rajouri district.

Several houses were also damaged due to the shelling in the affected frontier districts, including Kupwara. 

Indian paramilitary troopers stand guard near a checkpoint on the outskirts of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir, May 7, 2025. At least nine civilians were killed and over 40 others wounded Wednesday in clashes between Indian and Pakistani troops across the Line of Control in Kashmir, Indian officials said. (Xinhua/Javed Dar)
Prospective adoptive parents in North Carolina could not be denied the placement of a child in their care because the parents oppose providing the child with gender-affirming and transition care, under a bill approved by the state Senate on Wednesday.

Senate Bill 442, titled the Parents Protection Act, would also mean that a biological, adoptive or foster parents refusal to allow their child to receive such care  put another way, as it is stated in the bill, raising a child consistent with the childs biological sex  would not qualify as abuse or neglect under law.

The bill was approved in a 32-13 vote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Senate bill is nearly identical to House Bill 560, also titled the Parents Protection Act, which received approval in multiple committees Tuesday but has not been heard on that chambers floor. Both bills are sponsored by Republicans, who control both chambers of the legislature.

Sen. Amy Galey, a Burlington Republican and cosponsor of the Senates bill, said in a committee Tuesday afternoon that the bill would protect parents ability to care for children without the threat of losing supervision over that child because they refuse to affirm the gender identity of a child who is experiencing gender dysphoria.

The bill also shields parents who refuse to affirm gender transitioning from prosecution, Galey told the committee. Parents could still be otherwise prosecuted for child abuse or neglect, but their refusal to provide their child with gender-affirming care could not the be sole premise of such a case against the parent, Galey said.

Several Democrats questioned the need for the bill in committees Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Is this a problem in North Carolina, or are we solving a problem that doesnt actually exist here? asked Sen. Julie Mayfield, an Asheville Democrat, in the Senates rules committee.

Galey, responding to Mayfield, said the situation has occurred in quite a few states now, but that she was not aware of any instances in North Carolina.

Earlier Tuesday, in another committee meeting, Galey cited legislation in California that would have allowed courts to consider, as one of many factors, whether a parent affirms their childs identity in making determinations about parental custody and visitation rights. Critics of that 2023 measure, which Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom ultimately vetoed, argued that it could have resulted in a child being taken from their parents  but legal experts and the bills sponsor disputed that assertion, The Associated Press reported.

Rep. Donnie Loftis, a Gastonia Republican who is a cosponsor of the Houses bill, said in another committee Tuesday that the bill is a preemptive motion, for right now.

DHHS, Democrats oppose bill

On the Senate floor Wednesday, Galey introduced an amendment that removed a section pertaining to foster care that was included in a previous version of the bill, debated Tuesday. Janssen White, assistant secretary for government affairs at the state Department of Health and Human Services, told senators Tuesday that DHHS had concerns about those provisions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Under state law, children in foster care are guaranteed a bill of rights for the quality and standards of the homes they are placed in. Among other requirements, the bill of rights states that children are entitled to a safe foster home free of violence, abuse, neglect, and danger.

Under the proposed Parents Protection Act, raising a child in a manner consistent with the childs biological sex, including any related mental health or medical decisions would not be considered a violation of the bill of rights.

Galey on Tuesday defended the former version of the bill by arguing that some parents might oppose gender-affirming care because of their religious beliefs, which could instruct them to believe that gender is a gift which is given from the Lord. Those beliefs alone, Galey argued, should not prevent the parents from having a child placed in their care.

If the person holding those beliefs wants to become a foster parent, I would ... assert that they should not be disqualified from that because they hold those beliefs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But White noted that there are more parties involved in foster care than the foster parents themselves  including the child and the childs biological parents.

White, who told senators that DHHS has concerns about the portions of the bill related to foster care, said biological parents retain the right to make decisions about how their children are raised. DHHS officials are worried that the bill would undermine that right, White said.

While foster parents serve a critical role in the child welfare system, the rights of all individuals and biological parents must must be maintained, White said.

DHHS was also concerned that the bill would undermine the ability of county-level social services agencies and courts to consider all necessary information when determining an appropriate placement that prioritizes the childs best interest, which is critical, White said Tuesday.

Bill doesnt go both directions

Galey seemed to address that concern earlier in the Senate committee, when Mayfield asked her whether the bill would prevent the agencies that oversee foster care from placing a child with parents who are supportive of gender-affirming care, over a family who would not support such treatment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I think that we would all agree, Galey replied, that in searching for appropriate care for a foster child, [departments of social services] should consider all relevant things which dont discriminate against people based on their religion or make them give up their personal speech.

Earlier Tuesday, Sen. Lisa Grafstein, a Raleigh Democrat, expressed concerns that the bill is not going both directions  that is, it does not provide protections to parents who do support their childs gender transition, and who may be subject to criticism or claims of abuse from people outside of their family. Grafstein then noted that Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, in 2022 directed the states Department of Family and Protective Services to investigate families who provided gender-affirming care to children, a move that has since been subject to court injunctions.

Grafstein also questioned whether courts or social services agencies would be able to consider the supportiveness of the home when those entities are deciding where to place a child, to which Galey responded by saying that the best interest of the child is the North Star.

This is why I think it should go both ways, Grafstein said, adding that if the bill would prevent the consideration of a parents opposition to gender-affirming care in placement decisions, then it should not be a factor that that family will provide gender-affirmative care.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If were trying to address the concern that gender identity issues will come into play in the assessments, then I think theres a way for us to address that, you know, in a way thats neutral as to how the courts should view the family involved, Grafstein said.

On the Senate floor Wednesday, Grafstein introduced an amendment that would have added protections for parents who choose to provide their children with gender-affirming care. Galey submitted a substitute amendment that did not include those provisions. With the Senate approving that motion, Grafsteins amendment failed.

Grafstein also introduced an amendment to prohibit conversion therapy in the state. That measure was not considered after Galey offered a substitute amendment that raised the age of children for which parents could be found culpable for child abuse from 16 to 18. Galeys effort passed.

The Houses version of the bill had not been scheduled for a hearing on the floor as of Wednesday afternoon, but the Senates version will now go to that chamber for consideration. Thursday is the General Assemblys crossover date for this years legislative session, or the day by which a bill must be approved by one chamber to remain in consideration for the rest of the session.
Parents who received what they thought were the ashes of their infant son are now suing a funeral home and crematorium after his decomposing remains were found.

The Washington, D.C. area couple, Chris Parham and Laquanda Brown, were still in the process of mourning their two-month-old when police contacted them with disturbing news; their son's body had been found decaying at the Heaven Bound Crematorium in White Plains, Maryland.

The child was reportedly still wearing the clothes he was dressed in for the funeral, Fox 5 DC reports.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Now, the parents are suing the crematorium and Stewart Funeral Home for $10 million each.

This isn't the first time the crematorium has been accused of mishandling the recently deceased.

In 2017, the Maryland Death Services Oversight Board found evidence suggesting the funeral home hadn't been properly storing its human remains. State investigators found human bodies being stored in cardboard boxes and stacked like cargo. Arms and legs were reportedly hanging out of body bags, and various fluids  including blood  were leaking onto the floor.

The business was shut down in January of this year following the discovery.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

CJ Greenidge, who used the company to handle her father's remains just before the state's discovery, called the proprietors "evil."

"The people that were in charge of running Heaven Bound were evil. I think they took advantage of people at their worst and most vulnerable point," she told WMAR News in January. "It causes real damage. It's a lot to deal with losing someone that you love and to know that as soon as they left this house, you don't know what could have happened."

Governor Wes Moore has opened an investigation into the state's oversight board to determine why the business was allowed to continue despite numerous red flags.

Parham and Brown did not even know their child wase going to be sent to Heaven Bound by Steward Funeral Home in D.C. The couple told Fox 5 that they felt lied to and that they still have not received their son's remains, despite receiving a set of ashes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Both Heaven Bound and Stewart Funeral Home  as well as their owners, Rosa Turner and Brandon Williams, respectively  are named in the parents' lawsuit. The filing claims that the businesses inflicted severe emotional distress on the grieving parents.

The Independent has tried to contact Heaven Bound and Stewart Funeral Home for comment.
PARMA, Ohio (WJW)  The FOX 8 I-Team has found local dispatchers solved a mystery just in time to save the lives of a woman and a child.

A mom and son found themselves trapped in a house fire, but the woman struggled to explain to dispatchers, exactly, where to find the house. It sits back off the road behind a business.

New video: Woman kidnapped from Cleveland bus stop

On the 9-1-1 call, you hear the mother say, Its black smoke, maam. We cant breathe. I have a child here.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dispatcher Jordan Mlady said, We got a 911 phone call for a female that was stuck inside of her house with a young child. She added, We got the wrong address from the caller. It wasnt the correct address.

So, rescuers couldnt find the fire.

Dispatcher Keisha Korodi said, So ,when they were driving by, they were looking for the next house in order on the street. But, this address happened to be right behind a business.

Ohio man arrested for cold case murder of California woman in 1977

On the 911 call, the mother told how she saw emergency vehicles going past.

That call came in just before dawn. Firefighters looked for a home back behind a business without a lot of light and without a good address.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dispatchers turned to technology provided through the Cuyahoga County 911 system. They figured out where to find that mother and child.

Dispatcher Hillary Sakacsi said, Everybody in the room worked together to get a good address for her. I could tell we were close because of all the sirens.

In fact, on the 911 call, you eventually hear the sound of sirens and the mother saying, I heard someone. I hear people.

Dispatch Supervisor TJ Martin said, Rapid SOS is an active and constant ability to triangulate and specify where an address is for a cellular caller. We were able to identify, locate, and immediately pinpoint the address of the caller.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The city has given commendations to the dispatchers involved.

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.
LAND OLAKES  Nearly 5,500 Pasco County children receive their education at home.

The school district is looking for ways to bring some of them into classrooms  even if for only one course.

Following the recent lead of the Miami-Dade County school system, Pasco County officials are creating a program in which homeschoolers can take individual classes at their neighborhood schools. Those who receive state-funded vouchers could use that money to cover the cost, estimated to be about $1,000 per course.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

State lawmakers paved the way for such a model two years ago, when they lifted income restrictions for vouchers, making all children eligible to receive one. The new law also created a homeschooling voucher, and allowed families to use the money for contracted services from public schools or districts, including classes.

We are basically becoming a vendor, Pasco superintendent John Legg said about the district initiative, which he introduced Tuesday during a school board workshop.

The district plans to send surveys to the families this week to gauge their interest. It particularly wants to know what types of courses they would consider taking, and in which schools.

Legg said he anticipated interest would be highest in high school advanced, technical and ROTC courses that they might not have access to otherwise. Nearly half of Pascos homeschoolers are high school-aged.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But nothing has been settled, with all options on the table depending on the survey response.

Board members noted that parents might have different desires for their children, perhaps in the younger grades. Vice chairperson Colleen Beaudoin said that when the district offered individual courses in the past, some families just wanted a social outlet for their youngsters.

It wasnt necessarily the most rigorous courses, Beaudoin said.

Samantha Del Valle, director of the districts Office of Leading and Learning, said the plan is to start small in the fall but eventually expand to all grade levels.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Legg has talked since before his November election about the districts need to better connect with families that are choosing other education options. Thats a growing segment, he said, pointing to a projected enrollment decrease even as the number of school-aged children in the county is on the rise.

Providing single courses could bring some voucher money into district coffers, and perhaps attract students back into the schools full-time if they like what they see, Legg said.

Beaudoin called the concept a win-win, noting it also would allow schools to offer advanced courses such as physics and calculus that some have not been able to hold because the student counts were too low.

If response is strong, the district anticipates beginning the new service in the fall.
May 6WASHINGTON  New Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins faced tough questions on Tuesday about his plans to lay off 70,000 to 80,000 employees and speed up the nationwide deployment of a troubled computerized patient medical record system that first launched in Spokane in 2020.

Washington Sen. Patty Murray grilled Collins about a lack of transparency under his leadership, including a new policy that prevented her from meeting with veterans and health care providers at the Seattle VA hospital in April. She also questioned his goal of cutting 15% of the department's workforce while accelerating the rollout of the electronic health record system that has hamstrung Spokane's Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center since it became the testing ground at the end of the first Trump administration.

"As you know, fixing EHR and getting it right for our veterans is about patient safety," Murray said, using the acronym for the system. "Did you ask these VA clinicians and hospitals about how those cuts would affect future EHR deployments?"

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Collins replied that the planned layoffs and the computer system's accelerated rollout "are separate," brushing aside concerns about cutting staff and terminating support contracts while more aggressively deploying a system that has contributed to thousands of cases of patient harm, according to the VA's own internal data.

Ken Kizer, who ran the Veterans Health Administration during the 1990s and oversaw the last major overhaul of VA health care, has said it would be "lunacy" to ramp up the system's rollout while conducting mass layoffs.

Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., said she was concerned that VA employees were refusing to show up for trainings and to use the new system, asking Collins how he would deal with such resistance to the system, which the Trump administration purchased for $10 billion in 2017 from Cerner, a company that has since been acquired by the tech giant Oracle.

Collins told Blackburn that when he started learning about the beleaguered project, he found an attitude at the VA that he described as, "We're not going to do anything and we're going to make it all individualized." Meanwhile, he said, Oracle had the attitude that "We could just finish this in a short amount of time."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"So what we've done is we've actually now put the onus back on Oracle to actually, you know, provide what they're supposed to provide," Collins said. "And we've also cut down, on our side, the amount of delay that was caused in  that really caused the initial problems in the rollout, where we had six different locations doing six different things. So we've taken eight or nine committees that were all having to touch stuff before they could get back to a decision and cut that down to one committee that can then communicate directly with Oracle to get this started."

The committees Collins referred to were composed of doctors with expertise in different aspects of medical care, who reviewed proposed changes to the complex computer system. It is unclear how a single committee, intended to streamline the system's development, will address the numerous concerns identified by users in Spokane, Walla Walla and the four other VA hospitals that have since adopted the system.

Sen. Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican who chairs the Senate VA Committee, opened the hearing by saying that many of the panel's members have concerns about the plan Collins announced in March to slash the department's workforce to comply with an executive order President Donald Trump signed. Rather than cutting a predetermined number of jobs, Moran said, Collins should "right-size" the VA workforce.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, the panel's top Democrat, then expressed similar concerns with a series of sharp questions that Collins largely evaded.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Improvement is absolutely necessary, but it shouldn't be done with a chain saw," Blumenthal said, warning that mass layoffs could be "a self-inflicted wound" for the VA.

Collins responded by saying that only about 1,000 of the department's more than 470,000 employees had been laid off, excluding most of the "probationary" VA workers who were arbitrarily fired as part of Trump adviser Elon Musk's early effort to slash the federal workforce. The secretary said that simply adding more employees hadn't fixed the VA's woes and emphasized that his goal of cutting 15% of staff may not actually happen.

In a testy exchange with Sen. Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., Collins suggested the idea that the VA will cut jobs and services is "a nice talking point, but we've not done it yet."

"It's your talking point," Hassan said incredulously, to which Collins responded, "It is our goal. A goal is not a fact."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Republicans on the committee largely avoided criticizing Collins, but Moran gently reminded the secretary that the VA needs to replace its inspector general, whom Trump summarily fired in January without following a law that requires a president to notify Congress and give a rationale for such a move.

After Moran questioned why a new inspector general hadn't been appointed, Collins said the next step would be Trump nominating a replacement for Mike Missal, the former top watchdog who, along with other inspectors general who were fired in January, has filed a lawsuit challenging their mass termination.

Orion Donovan Smith's work is funded in part by members of the Spokane community via the Community Journalism and Civic Engagement Fund. This story can be republished by other organizations for free under a Creative Commons license. For more information on this, please contact our newspaper's managing editor.
SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS)  The city is celebrating this special pup after he made his first big bust.

On May 4, 2025, the Shreveport Police Department (SPD) responded to a report of a sexual assault. The victim was quickly transported to a local hospital, where she was immediately treated and worked with victim advocates and sex crimes detectives to identify the suspect.

Christopher Morris wanted for sexual assault Source: Shreveport Police Department

This is where the departments newest four-legged officer, Rip received his time to shine. On May 6, SPD was executing a search warrant for Christopher Morris for one count of first degree rape in relation to the May sexual assault. Officers arrived at the 8800 block of Coyth Lane, where Morris had hidden himself inside a home, making it difficult for officers to locate him. Recognizing the challenge, they decided it was time for Rip to put his training to the test and help track down the suspect.

Rip sprang into action, nose to the ground, sniffing out the wanted suspect in the home and bringing him to justice.



The Shreveport Police Department shared news of the big takedown on Facebook, and residents flooded the comments with congratulations and cheers. Give that baby a raw steak.

Good job!!! I hope Rip got lots of Pupperonis afterwards.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Morris was transported to a local hospital for injuries sustained in the incident.



One user commenting, Taking a bite outta crimeGood boy Rip!

Rips successful first big bust serves as a testament to the invaluable role K-9 officers play in law enforcement.

If convicted, Christopher Morris could face life imprisonment under Louisiana 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 KTALnews.com.
Getty images.

Thousands of nursing home workers across Minnesota would see a significant pay increase on Jan. 1 under a bill that easily passed the state House 109-25 on Monday. The measure still needs Senate approval and the signature of Gov. Tim Walz.

The House human services budget bill includes funding for nursing homes to pay for increased minimum wage rates set by the states Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board last year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Beginning in 2026, certified nursing assistants would earn at least $22.50 an hour, trained medication aides at least $24.50 an hour and licensed practical nurses at least $27 an hour, under the bill. All other nursing home workers would earn at least $19 an hour. The minimum wages would increase $1.50 per hour across job titles on Jan. 1, 2027.

Funding for the minimum rates, if agreed to by the governor and Senate, would raise pay $2 an hour on average for workers earning less than the minimum, according to a fiscal analysis by the Department of Human Services. Labor advocates say the raises will help increase retention and reward workers for caring for the states sick and elderly.

Democrats created the labor standards board in 2023 and gave it broad authority to regulate working conditions in nursing homes, including minimum pay. Pay raises are contingent on funding from the Legislature, however, which made Mondays vote a critical hurdle to pass.

Its a big win for workers, and we appreciate that the bill passed with bipartisan support, said Jamie Gulley, a worker representative on the Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board and president of the union SEIU Healthcare Minnesota & Iowa.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gulley, whose union represents nursing home workers and advocated for the boards creation, said the board is critical to ensuring workers are fairly compensated for the work that is largely funded by taxpayers through Medicaid. He noted reimbursement rates for nursing homes have doubled in the past decade while wages for workers have not.

Walz and the Democratic-controlled Senate have also proposed additional funding to pay for the raises, which are estimated to cost the state between $9 million and $15 million.

Nursing home industry groups similarly welcomed the vote by the House, while voicing their ongoing opposition to the existence of the labor board.

Minnesota is the only state in the nation with such a board, and without adequate funding, its mandates would have pushed many providers to the brink, Toby Pearson, CEO of Care Providers of Minnesota, said in a statement on behalf of the nursing home industry group Long Term Care Imperative.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board comprises equal numbers of workers, nursing home representatives and state officials. All three industry officials abstained from voting on the pay raises last year.

They also abstained from voting on a rule guaranteeing workers 11 paid holidays, which nursing home industry groups are challenging in court. They say the rule interferes with collective bargaining with unions and could be financially ruinous to some nursing homes.

During the floor debate on Monday, House Republicans introduced amendments to make the labor standards board more favorable to nursing home leaders and limit its power but failed to win any Democratic support. The efforts failed 67-67.

Twenty-four Republicans and one Democrat  Rep. Kim Hicks, DFL-Rochester  ultimately voted against the human services budget bill, which includes significant cuts as state lawmakers stare down a forecasted deficit in future years.
JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV)  The Pearl Chamber of Commerce officially welcomed the Mississippi Mud Monsters with a ribbon cutting at Trustmark Park on Wednesday.

The home opener is set for May 8 at 6:30 p.m. against the Florence Yalls. Parking at Trustmark Park will be free for all home games in 2025.

Season tickets, group outings, party decks, picnics, and suites are on sale online or by calling 601-664-7607.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Daily 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 WJTV.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  A pedestrian was injured after a hit-and-run crash on Lower Broadway overnight.

The crash was reported around 2:56 a.m. in the 400 block of Broadway.

Authorities said a person was bleeding after being hit by a vehicle.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

The vehicle involved reportedly drove away from the scene. Metro Police investigators are searching for the driver.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No additional information was released as the investigation continues.

 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.
BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson announced here on Wednesday that at the invitation of the government of Switzerland, He Lifeng, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council will visit Switzerland from May 9 to 12.

He will hold talks with Swiss leaders and relevant parties, the spokesperson said.

During his visit to Switzerland, He, as the Chinese lead person for China-U.S. economic and trade affairs, will have a meeting with the U.S. lead person Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

From May 12 to 16, He will be in France to co-chair with the French side the 10th China-France High Level Economic and Financial Dialogue, said the spokesperson. 
Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) on Wednesday warned that the United States cannot afford to neglect its commitment to mutual defense to its NATO allies in the face of Russian provocations.

Speaking at a POLITICO event on the sidelines of the Munich Leaders Meeting in Washington, the former House speaker acknowledged that President Donald Trump has spoken frivolously about the alliance in the past. Yet the San Francisco Democrat insisted that the U.S. has to support the alliance  and the commitment to mutual defense enshrined in its Article 5  because the U.S. also needs to know it will have help in future crises.

If we as the United States of America do not honor our commitments. I don't know how we expect people to honor their commitments to us, Pelosi said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She noted that NATO countries came to the United States' defense following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, saying, They didn't ask us how much we were giving to NATO or anything else. They just honored Article 5. Those attacks were the only time that the alliance has invoked Article 5.

In reference to Canada, Pelosi blasted Trumps comments about mutual defense for countries that havent met the alliances 2 percent of GDP defense spending target. I don't think that the president of the United States should say to a NATO country, if you haven't paid 2 percent, I say to Russia, have at them, she said.

Pelosi also said that I don't think the door has been shut on repairing ties between the U.S. and NATO member states.

Yet she also needled the White House in more humorous ways, striking a more sardonic tone for other Trump administration moves toward the alliance. Dismissing the Trump administrations efforts to potentially annex Greenland, Pelosi quipped that there are more people [who] think that Elvis Presley is alive in the United States than Greenlanders who think they want to be part of the United States.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She also voiced some measured praise for more conciliatory comments from Vice President JD Vance on Wednesday regarding the transatlantic alliance and peace in Ukraine. Vance had shocked allies in a February speech to the Munich Security Conference  which also organized Wednesdays meeting  where he assailed Europe for encroaching on free speech and being lackluster partners to the United States.

When he spoke to the group Wednesday, Vance instead insisted both Europe and the United States are on the same civilizational team. He added, It's completely ridiculous to think that you're ever going to be able to drive a firm wedge between the United States and Europe.

It was a better approach, Pelosi said about Vances comments. I would say it was well received.
(WHTM)  Pennsylvania recently became the second state to launch the United States of Readers program.

Scholastic, the global childrens publishing, education, and media company, joined Pennsylvania state lawmakers today to celebrate the programs expansion into the state. According to Scholastic, the U.S. of Readers program is a literacy program created to combat book inequity in Title I schools and rural areas.

Scholastic says the program aims to allow students in these communities to read books they want. The program currently provides free books to 3,500 pre-K through 8th-grade students in five school districts in Pennsylvania, including the School District for the City of York.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to Scholastic, other districts already participating in the program include the School District of Philadelphia, Pittsburgh School District, Pittston Area School District, and Riverside School District.

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

This Week in Pennsylvania

Year after year, literacy assessments capture how our schools cannot bridge the literacy gaps on their own. The mission of the United States of Readers program is for every child to choose and own their books and feel happy and empowered about reading, said Judy Newman, Scholastics Chief Impact Officer.We are thrilled to celebrate the expansion of this program into Pennsylvania, where Scholastic was founded over 100 years ago, with members of the State Legislature and fierce education advocate Sheryl Lee Ralph. We hope these districts will be a model for others across the country, so every child can reap the benefits of choosing their own books and developing their reading proficiency and self-confidence as readers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to data from the Scholastic Kids & Family Reading Report, 90% of kids say their favorite books are ones they choose themselves. The program, which starts this Spring, will allow Pennsylvania students to pick ten books to add to their at-home libraries at no cost.

Sheryl Lee Ralph, an Emmy Award-winning actress who plays educator Barbara Howard on Abbott Elementary, spoke at the Pennsylvania State House in Harrisburg today.

As my character, kindergarten teacher Barbara Howard would say, You must get things done, and that is exactly what the State Legislature and Scholastic are doing by bringing this program to Pennsylvania, said Ralph. Literacy is critically important to our students and a powerful tool to open doors and pave the way for a successful future. It is wonderful to be here to support todays event and I cannot think of a better way for Abbott Elementary to play a meaningful role in supporting education for students, teachers, and our communitiesright here in Pennsylvania.

Massachusetts was the first state to launch the program back in October 2024.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 ABC27.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP)  Pennsylvanians 21 or older would be allowed to legally purchase and use marijuana under a bill that passed the state House on Wednesday, the first time a recreational cannabis proposal has been approved by either legislative chamber.

Democrats voted unanimously to advance the multifaceted bill to the Senate over unified opposition from Republicans, just as lawmakers are working out which issues will be part of the budget-season dealmaking that occurs every year at this time in Harrisburg.

The proposal was touted by the main sponsor, Democratic Rep. Rick Krajewski of Philadelphia, as a balanced, responsible and robust framework that will create jobs, ensure a safe product and maintain affordable prices for consumers. He noted that there were about 12,000 simple possession arrests in the state last year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Republicans expressed concern that legalization will increase marijuana usage, cause health issues and create safety problems at workplaces. Several pointed out that marijuana is still illegal under federal law.

The myth that this will only make cannabis available to adults is to deny reason and logic, said Rep. Marc Anderson, a York County Republican. He predicted that kids will get weed illegally, and it will be more dangerous.

The bill seems likely to see changes if senators decide to act on it. Sen. Dan Laughlin of Erie County, a leading Republican on the issue, said on social media after the vote that there is no path forward in the Senate for a state store model for adult-use cannabis.

Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro proposed legalizing recreational marijuana in his budget, counting on more than $500 million in revenue during the first year, primarily through licensing fees. He is looking for new sources of cash to pay Medicaid bills, bolster struggling public transit agencies and help the poorest public schools.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The proposal would direct that sales be managed by the state-owned liquor store system, but they would occur not at the liquor stores themselves but in other retail outlets. The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board would set prices and regulate how cannabis is produced, tested, transported and sold.

Some of the new tax revenue would go to help historically disadvantaged communities, with other portions designated to combat substance abuse, boost minority business development and pay for expunging marijuana-related convictions.

Rep. Tim Bonner, a Mercer County Republican, argued that the expungement mechanism would improperly impinge on the state courts, but Democratic backers said they were confident the provision will withstand legal scrutiny.

Under the bill, drivers who are not considered impaired but have traces of marijuana in their blood would not be subject to driving-under-the-influence charges. State residents would be allowed to grow a small number of plants if they obtain a home cultivation permit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There are 24 states that currently allow recreational marijuana and 14 others that permit it only for medical purposes. Pennsylvania legalized medical marijuana in 2016 for patients with certain qualifying conditions and the assent of a physician.

Democratic state Sen. Sharif Street of Philadelphia, who supports legalization, said the House bill lacks majority support in the Senate. A pair of bills that languished during the last legislative session called for a much different public sales method, involving state licensing of private retail dispensaries.

Chris Goldstein, the Pennsylvania regional organizer for the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, said opponents of putting marijuana sales in the hands of the liquor store system consider the House bill a centralized approach that would not do much to foster small businesses.

This is so far away from anything we see in other states, it's just not something that consumers are familiar with, Goldstein said. That's not what people want.
CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. (WHTM)  Elizabet Estrada of Chambersburg is facing multiple charges after her 16-year-old son went to the doctor and weighed 26 pounds.

Court documents show the teen weighed 22 pounds when he was three years old, and just 26 pounds at age 16. Investigators say in all the years in between, the child had no doctor appointments or medical care.

The family lives internally amongst each other, said Det. Sgt. Jon Greenawalt of the Chambersburg Police Department. The mother and four children  by the mothers statements, they dont have a lot of contact outside the home. They were schooled at home through the mother.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

So investigators say when Estrada brought her son to the doctor, Penn State Health reported it to Franklin County Children and Youth Services, which got the police involved.

Story continues below

He was emaciated, Greenawalt said. He was obviously malnourished and underweight.

Estrada is now facing two counts of endangering the welfare of children and one count of aggravated assault.

Meanwhile, doctors told investigators the teen was three and a half feet tall because he was malnourished. They diagnosed him with psychosocial dwarfism: a disorder caused by extreme deprivation or stress.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They found out about other conditions that went undiagnosed for years.

The child presents he was developmentally delayed, said Greenawalt. He was limited verbally.

Court documents show the boy couldnt hold down food, so he stayed in the hospital from October until December. Hes currently in foster care.

Police say the other siblings were healthy.

One of the other children is in foster care and two for the other children are actually legal age adult, said Greenawalt.

2 Sioux County men get 10 years for meth distribution

The affidavit says Estrada insisted she did everything for her son and wanted to treat him at home.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you have concerns of abuse or neglect, contact your local police department, said Greenawalt.

Estrada was unable to post bail and is currently at Franklin County Prison. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Tuesday.

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.
WASHINGTON, May 7 (UPI) -- The House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness and Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense pressed top military brass over the last two days to promote readiness, especially in the Indo-Pacific region, given threats posed by China and other adversaries.

Defense officials highlighted key strategic initiatives to bolster military readiness, focusing on infrastructure resilience, energy independence and modernization efforts to address emerging global threats.

"The U.S. Army is a force that remains the backbone of our nation's defense and a critical pillar in ensuring global stability," appropriations subcommittee on defense Chairman Ken Calvert, R-Calif., said in opening remarks Wednesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We will assess the Army's readiness to meet the challenges of the increasingly complex security environment, particularly as we look toward future conflicts including those that may unfold in the Indo-Pacific theater of operation," Calvert said.

The commitment to security in the Indo-Pacific region was a primary discussion at the readiness subcommittee. Adm. James Kilby, acting chief of Naval Operations, said the Navy was focused on strengthening its infrastructure in the Indo-Pacific region to be ready to sail at a moment's notice against an adversary, most notably China.

The House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness receives testimony from witnesses representing the five branches of the military on Tuesday. Photo by Bridget Erin Craig/Medill News Service

Elected officials cited the importance of "hardening" military systems, which means maintaining and updating critical infrastructure such as electricity grids and ports to ensure they can withstand potential conflict scenarios.

Kilby emphasized the importance of building resilience, noting that potential conflicts highlight the need to strengthen critical systems like the electrical grid.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"That includes the electrical grid, all the supporting structures. ... We're dependent on each other," he said, explaining that these improvements would benefit not just one base, but all of them collectively.

Kilby also called for the Navy to increase its usage of quantum technologies in the coming years, underscoring a shift toward high-tech solutions to bolster national security.

Bolstering technology is a priority for the Army, as well, but with a heightened focus on artificial intelligence.

"I know the world is changing. Commercial technology is rapidly evolving, especially AI and autonomous systems," Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George said at Wednesday's hearing. "This is impacting the caricature of war. We understand that we must transform to stay ahead of our adversaries, and need to get better by 2026 and 2027, not 2030."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rep. Eric Sorensen, D-Ill., who serves on the subcommittee on readiness, stressed the need to continue to invest in modernization and automation of key military production facilities, such as the Rock Island Arsenal in Illinois, which is a necessary part of the Army's supply chain to sustain military readiness.

"At the Rock Island Arsenal, a 946-acre island in the Mississippi River, but on my side of the Illinois-Iowa border, the Rock Island Arsenal is the largest government-owned and operated arsenal," Sorensen said. "We cannot ensure our troops have what they need without the Rock Island Arsenal."

Representatives brought attention to growing concerns over climate change, particularly rising sea levels and extreme weather events, which have the potential to disrupt energy infrastructure at key military installations.

Rep. Sarah Elfreth, D-Md., raised concerns about the vulnerability of military bases, such as Joint Base Lewis-McChord and Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in Washington state. Subcommittee members also warned that the military is vulnerable to cyber threats and attacks on state-run energy grids.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We need to focus on securing our energy infrastructure," Elfreth said, stressing the necessity of developing independent, reliable power sources like microgrids at military bases.

In response, Marine Corps Gen. Christopher Mahoney highlighted the implementation of microgrids at multiple installations, like Marine Corps Air Station Yuma in Arizona, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island in South Carolina and the Marine Corps' Camp Lejeune in North Carolina.

These systems, designed to operate independently from civilian power grids, are seen as crucial in ensuring that military operations can continue uninterrupted, even during emergencies.

Representatives expressed concern about the Army's ongoing transformation efforts, given recent changes in military procurement. Officials noted the Army has adjusted its approach to modernizing its vehicle fleet, focusing on the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle program.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By reducing procurement of certain vehicles, "We'll be able to take that and reinvest it and more rapidly modernize our light formations." Army Gen. James Mingus said.

The debate on military readiness coincided with the Trump administration's unveiling of the first $1 trillion defense budget, with commitments such as deter aggression in the Indo-Pacific.

Lawmakers and military officials emphasized the importance of adapting to emerging threats, whether technological, environmental or geopolitical.
People across Puget Sound are waiting hours in line at their local Department of Licensing (DOL) to get a REAL ID before Wednesdays deadline.

Thats crazy because the other day it was going all the way in the back so I had to leave. I wasnt going to stay in line, said Anthony Williams.

Im nervous, said Shane Klemisch. I have to fly Friday.

Anyone who is looking to fly domestically or enter a federal building in the United States must have a REAL ID compliant form of identification by May 7.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

REAL ID is a federal law, not an actual piece of identification marked as such.

The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, enacted the 9/11 Commissions recommendation that the Federal Government set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as drivers licenses.

You must be a U.S. citizen to apply for an enhanced drivers license. However, if youre not, you can still apply for a standard drivers license if you would like to drive around the country.

People were seen waiting in long lines, hoping to get their enhanced drivers license before their upcoming flights.

One person told KIRO 7 News that his wife had waited more than five hours in line to get her enhanced drivers license at the Arlington DOL office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I couldnt believe it frankly. I thought it [the line] was to the end of the building and Oh, that will be okay, and I came around to the end of the building, and its around off the other end of the building. Its around the back in the alley, said Carol Hackman.

In the top right corner of your Washington State drivers license, it will indicate whether your identification will be accepted. If your license says federal limits apply, then you will either need to update it to an Enhanced Drivers License or use another form of accepted ID to fly domestically.

However, the Associated Press reported that Kristi Noem, the head of Homeland Security, said travelers who are not REAL ID compliant by Wednesdays deadline will still be able to fly  but should be prepared for extra scrutiny.

Those who do not have an identification that complies with the REAL ID law may be diverted to a different line, have an extra step, Noem said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But people will be allowed to fly, she said. We will make sure its as seamless as possible.

A spokesperson for Homeland Security shared the following statement:

TSA will enforce REAL ID and ensure there is no impact to wait times or TSA screening applications, especially for those passengers who are prepared with their REAL ID, passport or other acceptable form of ID. Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant at TSA checkpoints and who do not have another acceptable alternative form of ID will be notified of their non-compliance, may be directed to a separate area and may receive additional screening.

A spokesperson for the Washington State Department of Licensing, Thomas Charlson, said the long lines at the DOL offices may not go away for weeks or even months.

We dont know when well see some relief at our driver licensing offices in the foreseeable future. We do have appointments booked out either 45 or 60 days in advance in our urban areas, he added.
An officer in central Ohio encountered a pet raccoon while conducting a traffic stop earlier this week. The animal, named "Chewy," had a glass methamphetamine pipe in its mouth and was sitting in the driver's seat of a car that the officer had pulled over, police said.

The discovery led Springfield Township Police Officer Austin Branham, who conducted the traffic stop, to search the vehicle more thoroughly. He and other officers found methamphetamine, crack cocaine and three used methamphetamine pipes elsewhere in the car, according to the Springfield Township Police Department.

The vehicle was pulled over because its registered owner had an active warrant and a suspended driver's license, the department said. Law enforcement arrested and charged the owner of the car, 55-year-old Victoria Vidal, with drug possession and three counts of drug paraphernalia and cited her for driving under suspension, the police department said. Vidal may face more charges for crack cocaine possession, depending on the outcome of lab results still to come from the state Bureau of Criminal Investigation.

The raccoon was not harmed, police said, adding that "notification was made to the proper authorities to determine that she has the proper paperwork and documentation to own the racoon." (In Ohio, people are allowed to have pet raccoons, but the process to keep them domestically is highly regulated and certain permits are required.)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Springfield police released body camera video of the traffic stop, which shows Chewy emerging from the car.

"While our officers are trained to expect the unexpected, finding a raccoon holding a meth pipe is a first!" the department said.

Sneak peek: The Depraved Heart Murder

Why Hegseth is calling for cuts to senior ranks across U.S. military

Reporter's Notebook: Who pays for tariffs?
Pete Buttigieg argued on Tuesdays episode of The Briefing With Jen Psaki that recent legal setbacks for Donald Trump show that some of the presidents executive orders and other controversial political and economic moves can, in fact, be stopped.

Some of the most important setbacks and defeats of the Trump White House have been fighting it out on turf that maybe hasnt been as politically strong for us, the former transportation secretary under President Joe Biden told MSNBC host Jen Psaki.

He cited a federal judges ruling in March that drastic cuts to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) by the Elon Musks DOGE department were unconstitutional. That ruling has, in the meantime, been appealed in DOGEs favor. However Buttigieg said, Some of the legal opposition that stood up in response to that demonstrated that he can, in fact, be stopped.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Watch the MSNBC segment in full below:

Buttigieg added that Democrats  as well as Libertarians and Conservatives who dont approve of Trumps actions in his first 100 days  should be mounting both a legal strategy and a political strategy.

Whats really important about the legal work thats being done  the fights that are happening in the courts, whether its uncomfortable political ground or not  is that they establish that they can be stopped, and they establish when theyre actually acting outside of the rule of law, he elaborated.

The politician conceded that not everyone may agree with an op-ed that a student writes, but that free speech issues are still paramount.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What I know is that in this country, you should not be stuffed into a van or picked up off the street or thrown into detention because of an op-ed you wrote or a protest you showed up at  ever, he said. Thats just a fundamental thing.

He added that people across the political spectrum should be in lockstep with progressives on [the issue of illegal deportation]. That is just wrong.

Watch Buttigiegs full breakdown on The Briefing with Psaki in the video above.

The post Pete Buttigieg Assures Jen Psaki That Trump Can, In Fact, Be Stopped From Breaking the Law | Video appeared first on TheWrap.
By Qabil Ashirov



The news from South Asia makes hearts jump into throats. Last night, India fired missiles across the border into Pakistani-controlled territory, leaving several dead  including one child  and many more wounded.

Condemning Indias attack, Pakistans Foreign Ministry noted that strikes were carried out in Muridke, Sialkot, and Bahawalpur, as well as across the Line of Control in Kotli and Muzaffarabad, in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

For its part, Indias Defense Ministry confirmed the strikes and stated that at least nine sites were targeted where terrorist attacks against India have been planned. The ministry added that the operation was focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities were targeted, it claimed.

However, international media outlets on the groundalong with footage and photos circulated by local residents on social medialend credibility to claims that India's Defense Ministry is merely paying lip service. The images and videos provide evidence that civilian targets were struck, including mosques and schools.

India's recent aggression brings to mind Iran's missile attacks on Pakistan's Balochistan in January 2024, made under a similar pretext. As is known, Islamabad did not take long to respond at the time, launching retaliatory strikes on Iranian territory shortly thereafter. Given Pakistan's history of swift retaliation, the possibility of another military response raises fears of a full-scale war between the two nuclear powerssending chills down the spines of many around the world. The news from India confirms that the fears are not vain. Thus, it is reported that India closed its air space for flights and many international airlines cancelled their flights to the country.

Speaking to Azernews, political analyst Imran Khalid, who is in Pakistan now  emphasized that the prevailing mood in Pakistan is a mixture of defiance, sorrow, and national unity in the face of what is widely viewed as unprovoked Indian aggression. He pointed out that the public sentiment is running high, with complete confidence in the capabilities of the Pakistans armed forces to deliver an appropriate response to Indias unprovoked aggression - especially in the absence of any credible evidence a linking Pakistan to recent acts of terrorism in India.

The public response is being shaped by both the tragic human cost of the strikes - 26 civilians killed and dozens wounded - and a sense of national vindication following the downing of five Indian jets. Government statements, particularly from Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and the militarys ISPR, have sought to galvanize public morale, emphasizing Pakistan's swift and precise retaliation as evidence of military competence and strategic resolve. Amid the heightened tensions, schools have been closed and flights grounded, but there is little indication of panic - only steely resolve. Public discourse, amplified by state media, centers around honor, defense of sovereignty, and the unjust targeting of civilians, including children and mosques. The collective sentiment appears to be one of wounded pride channeled into resolute patriotism, with calls for continued vigilance against future provocations, he added.

Imran Khalid is sure that Indias aggressive posture appears deeply intertwined with Prime Minister Narendra Modis domestic political calculus. He reminded that historically, Modi has not shied away from invoking cross-border tensions to galvanize nationalist sentiment during election cycles - most notably in the aftermath of the Pulwama-Balakot episode in 2019.

Modis ongoing campaign in Bihar is no exception. With rising discontent over economic stagnation, unemployment, and communal tensions, Modis government seems to be returning to a well-worn playbook: manufacturing external threats to unify the electorate under the banner of national security. The April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 tourists, provided a pretext for Operation Sindoor, launched without a credible investigation. By opting for high-visibility strikes and deploying newly acquired Rafale jets, Modi has signaled strength domestically while sidestepping accountability for intelligence lapses. The narrative of retaliatory justice plays well to his base, distracting from governance shortcomings and reframing the election as a referendum on patriotic resolve. Pakistans calls for a neutral probe into the Pahalgam incident were ignored, underscoring Indias prioritization of optics over diplomacy. This strategy, however, carries significant regional risks, as evidenced by the swift escalation and Pakistans equally forceful response, Pakistani political analyst said.

As for the full-scale war between the two nuclear power, Imran Khalid opined that the immediate future hinges precariously on whether New Delhi and Islamabad can de-escalate through diplomatic backchannels or if nationalist fervor overrides strategic caution. With Pakistan claiming the downing of five Indian jets and India remaining publicly silent on the losses, both countries now stand at a dangerous inflection point.

However, the Modi administration, mid-campaign and under domestic pressure, may find it politically unpalatable to back down without some symbolic restitution. Meanwhile, Pakistans leadership, having scored a tactical military success, is signaling readiness for further action if provoked again. The summoning of Pakistans National Security Committee and heightened alert across civilian sectors point to the seriousness of the moment. International actors -including the UN, China, and even the U.S. - are calling for restraint. In the best-case scenario, shuttle diplomacy or third-party mediation could forestall a deeper conflict. But with both nuclear-armed neighbors entrenched in nationalist narratives and public opinion inflamed, the risk of further escalation cannot be dismissed. A misstep - accidental or deliberate - could shift this crisis into far graver territory, Imran Khalid concluded.
BEIJING, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday sent a congratulatory message to Friedrich Merz on his election as chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany.

Noting that China and Germany are all-round strategic partners, Xi said since establishing diplomatic relations 53 years ago, the two countries have treated each other with mutual respect, trust and equality.

The two countries have consistently followed a path of mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation, growing into good partners that advance together and help each other succeed, and promoting the steady and sound development of bilateral relations through high-level cooperation, said Xi.

Today's world is marked by intertwined transformation and upheaval, with surging headwinds of unilateralism and protectionism, Xi noted.

Yet peace, development, cooperation and win-win outcomes remain the right way forward for humanity and an unstoppable trend of the times, Xi said.

As the world's second- and third-largest economies and two major countries with global influence, China and Germany should follow the trend of history, uphold fairness and justice, deepen exchanges and mutual learning, strengthen solidarity and cooperation, work together to weather storms and tempests, enhance the well-being of their peoples, and jointly promote an equitable and orderly multipolar world and an inclusive economic globalization, said Xi.

Xi said he highly regards the development of China-Germany relations, and is ready to work with the chancellor to stick to the original aspiration in establishing diplomatic relations, consolidate political mutual trust, deepen exchanges and cooperation, and open a new chapter in the all-round strategic partnership between China and Germany, so as to guide China-EU cooperation in the right direction, and jointly promote world peace, stability, and prosperity.

On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Qiang sent a congratulatory message to Merz on his election as German chancellor.

Noting that China and Germany are all-round strategic partners, Li said the practical cooperation between the two sides in various fields has yielded remarkable results and has broad prospects.

Equality, mutual benefit, cooperation, and win-win outcomes are the historical choices made by both countries and the most distinctive features of China-Germany relations, which should be carefully nurtured, inherited and promoted by both sides, Li said.

The Chinese premier said he looks forward to establishing and maintaining a sound working relationship with Merz, deepening exchanges and jointly promoting development, enhancing understanding and building consensus, continuously enriching the connotation of the China-Germany all-round strategic partnership, and guiding China-Germany and China-EU cooperation in the right direction. 
JELLICO, Tenn. (WATE)  Phoenix Rural Health signed a memorandum of understanding with the city of Jellico to oversee their hospital that had shut down, according to the city recorder.

Jellico Hospital shut down in March 2024, forcing patients to travel long distances for medical care. One patient told 6 News that she had to drive all the way to Knoxville to get stitches for her son.

Former patients of TN-based clinics now eligible for compensation

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pheonix Rural Health, from Jamestown, describes itself as an organization created to save struggling rural hospitals.

In August, the Board of Mayor and Alderman voted for Community Hospital Management to take control of the hospital. However, in November, they voted 4-3 not to continue lease negotiations after hearing from outside council, according to LaFollette Press. The video of the meeting shows that they had concerns such as the length of the term and the lack of a termination option for the city, among other issues.

Military helicopter training at Downtown Island Airport unsettles area residents

The city voted to sign PRH in January.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
PHOTOS: Wolcott police cruiser submerged in pond

WOLCOTT, Conn. (WTNH)  A police officer wasnt injured after his cruiser became submerged in water on Tuesday, police said.

The officer was on duty at 5:45 a.m. in the area of Spindle Hill Road in Wolcott. After three days of heavy rain, the pond on the property began overflowing into the road. The water made it difficult for the officer to see where the road ended and the pond began.

Rainfall totals: Heres how much rain Connecticut has picked up so far

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The cruisers left front tire went off the road and into the pond.

A police cruiser was fully submerged in a pond in Wolcott

A police cruiser was fully submerged in a pond in Wolcott

The cruiser then began sliding further into the pond as the officer tried to reverse, with no success. Water began filling the cruiser, and the officer could not open the door due to pressure. He was able to escape the cruiser through the window and called for help from the roof.

The vehicle floated approximately 20 feet before being fully submerged.

The fire department responded with a lifeboat and the officer was not injured.

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.
PICKENS COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA)  An inmate at the Pickens County Detention Center died Tuesday, nearly two weeks after going into cardiac arrest.

Related video: How to handle a medical emergency

According to the Pickens County Coroners Office, on April 25, first responders were called to the facility for a medical complaint.

Upon arrival, officials found 31-year-old Joshua Wayne Barbare in cardiac arrest.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After recovering a pulse, Barbare was taken to Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital for treatment, where he later died.

The coroners office said that Barbare appeared to have a medical episode that caused the cardiac arrest.

An autopsy is set for a later date, but the coroners office did not say when.

The death is being investigated by the coroners office and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).

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.
NEW YORK (PIX11)  Welcome to PIX on Politics Daily with Dan Mannarino, where we break down the days political news, headlines, and issues that matter most to you through in-depth conversation.

Join us daily on PIX11+ streaming at 1 p.m. as we invite the newsmakers, lawmakers, and key players shaping policies that impact local communities.

More News: PIX on Politics

On Wednesday, Dan Mannarino is joined by PIX11 political reporter, Henry Rosoff, to discuss the latest developments surrounding the New York City Mayoral Election.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 PIX11.
May 7 (UPI) -- Dozens of people were killed as India and Pakistan exchanged attacks in the ongoing aftermath of a mass killing of tourists in Pahalgam in April.

Pakistan said 26 people were killed and 46 were injured after New Delhi launched strikes against alleged terrorists within Pakistan's borders as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Wednesday that Pakistan has the right to retaliate against India's "act of war."

"The cunning enemy has carried out cowardly attacks on five locations in Pakistan," Sharif said in a statement on X. "Pakistan has every right to respond forcefully to this act of war imposed by India, and a forceful response is being given."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

India's army later said that 10 civilians were killed in shelling by Pakistan on its side of the border between the neighboring nations.

Attaullah Tarar, Pakistan's minister for information and broadcasting, had earlier said in a statement that "Pakistan has befittingly retaliated against Indian Aggression."

He said the Pakistani military had downed at least three Indian fighter jets and an Indian drone.

"The entire nation stands united in prayers and solidarity with our brave officers and soldiers," Tarar said.

India launched Operation Sindoor over Tuesday night, attacking what it called terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, the Pakistan-controlled western region of Kashmir, whose sovereignty is disputed by both Pakistan and India.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Indian Armed Forces said in a statement that it attacked nine alleged sites in retaliation for the deadly April 22 massacre of 26 tourists in the mountainous Pahalgam region of India-administered Kashmir. The Indian government has described the targets as "terrorist camps."

"Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature," the Indian Armed Forces said. "No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution."

India has blamed Pakistan for the Pahalgam attack, alleging it was conducted by Pakistan-based terrorists.

Late last month, Tarar said Pakistan had credible intelligence showing India intended to attack it over the Pahalgam massacre.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Indian self-assumed hubristic role of judge, jury and executioner in the region is reckless and vehemently rejected," he said in a statement on X. "Pakistan has been the victim of terrorism itself and truly understands the pain of this scourge."

New Delhi has previously launched strikes into Pakistan after Pakistan-based terrorists attacked it on accusations that Islamabad was harboring the militants.

In 2019, India fighter jets conducted airstrikes against Jaish-e-Mohammed camps in Pakistan after the terrorist group killed more than 40 Indian Central Reserve Police Force personnel in a suicide bombing in India's Jammu and Kashmir.

"The world must show zero tolerance for terrorism," Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, India's external affairs minister, said Wednesday on X.
ANKARA, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Turkish authorities detained 208 suspects on Tuesday in connection with alleged links to the Gulen movement, which it calls a terrorist group and blames for a 2016 coup attempt..

The nationwide crackdown targeted individuals suspected of infiltrating state institutions and maintaining ties with the group, Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on social media platform X.

Operations were carried out simultaneously across 47 provinces in coordination with provincial police departments and judicial authorities, he said.

"Along with Gaziantep, the current structure of the group in the regional structure of Kahramanmaras, Kilis, Sanliurfa, and Adiyaman provinces was deciphered," he said, adding that the members of the group who were taken to training camps abroad were also caught.

During the operations, many organizational documents and digital materials were seized, the Turkish minister noted.

The Gulen movement, once led by Muslim preacher Fethullah Gulen, who passed away in October 2024 in the United States, has been accused by the Turkish government of masterminding a coup attempt in 2016, which resulted in the deaths of over 250 people.

Turkish authorities have conducted extensive arrests over the years, detaining thousands of people allegedly linked to the Gulen movement. 
Two co-hosts of the popular liberal podcast Pod Save America mocked President Trump over comments he made Monday about their ex-boss, former President Obama.

During a Monday meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Trump commented on the building of the Obama Presidential Center.

Hes building his library in Chicago, Trump said of Obama during the Oval Office meeting. Its a disaster. And he said something to the effect, I only want DEI, I only want woke,' referencing diversity, equity and inclusion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He wants woke people to build it, the president added. Well, he got woke people, and they have massive cost overruns; the job has stopped.

In response to a clip featuring Trumps comments, Pod Save America co-host and former National Security Council spokesperson Tommy Vietor said on the social platform X that he could confirm that the people working on Obamas presidential center keep doing land acknowledgments and screaming their pronouns so no work is getting done.

Jon Favreau, another Pod Save America co-host and a former Obama speechwriter, replied to Vietors post with a graphic titled Pyramid of White Supremacy.

Frankly its been hard to get past the foundation when youre building a presidential center for a neo-lib free trader who governed during the Great Recession, Favreau said in his reply on X, with the graphic in his post featuring terms like Neo-Liberalism, Free Trade and Great Recession under a category labeled as the Foundation of the pyramid.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Hill has reached out to the White House for comment.

Everyone who sees the Obama Presidential Center is blown away by its beauty, scale and the way it will be an economic engine for Chicago and a beacon of hope for the world, Emily Bittner, vice president of communications for the Obama Foundation, said in an emailed statement to The Hill on Tuesday.

We look forward to welcoming all visitors to the 19.3-acre campus next spring, to experience a presidential center that not only honors the Obamas legacy but also lifts up the next generation of leaders, Bittner added.

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 recent abolishment of Polands last remaining LGBT-free zone is an important victory for the scores of activists and human rights defenders who resisted the discriminatory campaigns championed by the illiberal Law and Justice, or PiS, party, which governed the country until the end of 2023. Yet while this moment offers hope, it would be premature to declare victory.

The ultra-conservative threat to tolerance and inclusivity remains deeply embedded in Polands political landscape, emboldened by the growing appeal of Europes illiberal figureheads, namely Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico. The campaign by U.S. President Donald Trumps administration against trans rights and programs directed toward increasing diversity, equity and inclusivity, or DEI, has also put some wind back in the sails of those who supported PiS similar stances. Now, with a presidential election set for May 18 and PiS candidate polling second in what could be a close two-round contest, Polands liberal trajectory remains precarious despite this good news headline.

The repeal of Polands final LGBT-free zone by the southeastern county of Lancut last month closed one of the most internationally condemned chapters of the PiS governments tenure in office. Introduced in 2019, these resolutions declared municipalities free of so-called LGBTQ+ ideology, a term deliberately crafted to conflate equal rights with cultural subversion. Backed by PiS politicians and conservative NGOs, nearly 100 local authorities representing a third of the country enacted such declarations, claiming to be defending what they characterized as traditional family values.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The initiative drew sharp rebuke from the European Union, which threatened to revoke funding, prompting some local authorities to withdraw their declarations. Subsequent court rulings, citing constitutional violations and discrimination, further accelerated the dismantling of the zones. While this outcome highlights Polands democratic capacity for self-correction, it was not a moral sea change: Most withdrawals have been to protect funding, as last months decision shows. In their statement last month, for instance, Lancut officials underlined that their decision was made to ensure the benefits resulting from participation in many programs and grants awarded by government institutions, even as they doubled down on the alleged value of the Local Government Charter of Family Rights, as the ultra-conservative initiative was formally known.

To get more in-depth news and expert analysis on global affairs from WPR, sign up for our free Daily Review newsletter.

Nonetheless, the repeal of these discriminatory zones coincides with a broader, albeit fragile, liberal shift in Polish politics. In the countrys 2023 parliamentary election, a coalition of pro-EU, centrist and progressive parties unseated PiS after eight years in power. Led by Donald Tusk, a former Polish prime minister who also previously served as European Council president, the new government has prioritized restoring judicial independence, re-establishing ties with Brussels and advancing civil rights, all of which suffered under PiS rule.

The dismantling of Polands last LGBT-free zone is a significant victory, but it is only one step on a much longer journey as the country works to undo the damage done by PiS illiberalism.

Poland now stands in contrast to neighbors like Hungary and Slovakia, where illiberal populism remains deeply entrenched. Orbans Fidesz and Ficos Smer-SD have doubled down on anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, alleged media manipulation and antagonism toward EU norms. In February, Orban moved to ban Budapests LGBTQ+ pride celebration in any public form.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By contrast, Poland appears to be pivoting back to liberal democracy. However, this trajectory remains delicate. PiS retains a formidable base and has not abandoned its authoritarian impulses. President Andrzej Dudawho officially left PiS upon taking office to abide by the Polish presidencys norms of nonpartisanship but remains aligned with the partyretains the power to veto reforms, hampering the governing coalitions ability to deliver systemic change. Meanwhile, public media institutions remain partially captured, and judges appointed during the PiS era still distort legal proceedings.

The mere repeal of anti-LGBTQ+ resolutions, while encouraging, does not undo the deeper institutional damage left by PiS rule, nor does it signal that grassroots support for the party has been seriously challenged outside major cities and towns. Moreover, while PiS lost votes to Tusks Civic Coalition in the 2023 election, it also shed some support to the far-right Konfederacja party, which ran on a protectionist ticket.

Meanwhile, one of the most concerning developments in Polands illiberal ecosystem is the growing nexus between domestic conservatives and the U.S. far-right movement. And with Trump back in the White House, trans-Atlantic ties between populist actors are stronger than ever. U.S.-based conservative think tanks and donors have ramped up collaboration with Polish groups opposing reproductive rights and gender equality through joint appearances at conferences and support voiced across social media. These ideological bridges are not new, but they are now more energized.

PiS and their supporters have long admired Trumps confrontational style and disdain for liberal institutions. Trumps 2024 election victory rejuvenated Polands far right, whose supporters see in him a template for nationalist revival. This synergy was visibly reinforced this month, when Duda met with Trump in Washington. Their discussion, focused on NATO, Ukraine and sanctions against Russia, was also a show of political solidarity and a key moment for PiS to signal ahead of the presidential election that it has the U.S. presidents ear on key issues such as Ukraines security and EU relations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The dismantling of Polands last so-called LGBT-free zone is a deeply significant victory for human rights and democratic accountability. It illustrates the effectiveness of civil society advocacy, international pressure and legal redress in pushing back against discriminatory policy. Yet it is only one step on a much longer journey as the country works to undo the damage done by PiS illiberalism. And time is working against Tusk and his government. If Civic Coalitions presidential candidate, the liberal Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski, fails to win the presidency, it is unlikely the government will be fully able to transform the country and deliver the reforms it promised. All the while, the PiS presidential candidate, Karol Nawrocki, is benefiting from the power that his party embedded within the countrys institutional structure.

What happens in Poland matters. The central European country is a geopolitical buffer between Brussels and a resurgent authoritarian Russia, while serving as a counterweight to EU member states drifting toward illiberalism. It is a key ally of Ukraine and a growing voice of reason within the higher levels of EU policymaking. And it is a litmus test for other nations battling illiberalism on whether democratic backsliding can truly be reversed. The overturning of LGBT-free zones is a moment of progress and worthy of celebration, but it also demands caution. Polands ultra-conservative movement has not been vanquished. It has merely regrouped. And it remains a potent and well-resourced threat.

Amanda Coakley is a strategic adviser and Europes Futures Fellow at the Institute for Human Sciences in Vienna. In 2024 she was named an Aspen U.K. Rising Leaders Fellow. Her monthly WPR column appears on Wednesdays.

The post Polands Fight Against Illiberalism Is Far From Over appeared first on World Politics Review.
The European Council presidency of Poland hopes that a new package of sanctions against Russia over the war in Ukraine will be adopted by 1 July.

Source: Polish Minister for European Affairs Adam Szlapka during a plenary session of the European Parliament in Strasbourg, Interfax-Ukraine reports

Quote: "Work on the 17th package of sanctions has just begun. I hope it will be completed by the end of the Polish presidency. Our position is clear and has not changed. Ukraine must be in a strong position to be able to negotiate a good deal and to defend it once it is concluded. We are ready to support these efforts with the tools at the EU's disposal."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Details: Poland's EU presidency will end on 30 June and will be taken over by Denmark on 1 July, which will hold the presidency until 31 December.

Szlapka also mentioned the rapid assessment of Ukraine's losses and needs, which was published by the World Bank in February 2025. In particular, the war-related losses are estimated at US$176 billion, and the cost of a 10-year reconstruction is US$524 billion.

"Given this grim scenario, it is clear that no one wants peace more than Ukraine and Ukrainians themselves. Ukrainians have consistently demonstrated their willingness to accept convincing peace proposals," said Szlapka.

"Back in March, they agreed to an unconditional comprehensive ceasefire at the US-mediated talks, and since then, the ball is still in Russia's court," the Polish minister added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As reported on 6 May, the European Commission was to propose a new package of sanctions against Russia. It is expected that even more individuals and legal entities will be added to the sanctions lists.

Background:

Earlier it was reported that the 17th package of EU sanctions against Russia would be prepared for the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting to be held in May 2025.

This was stated by Kaja Kallas, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, at a press conference after the EU Council meeting in Luxembourg on 14 April, a European Pravda correspondent reports.

Kallas stressed that all proposals for the 17th package of EU sanctions against Russia will be collected before the meeting of EU foreign ministers in May 2025.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
WARSAW (Reuters) - Poland will not accept groups of illegal migrants being sent onto its territory, Prime Minister Donald Tusk said on Wednesday, after Germany said that it would reject undocumented migrants, including asylum seekers,at the country's borders.

"We will have many topics to discuss, so that there is no real impression that anyone, including Germany, would like to send any groups of migrants to Poland," Tusk told a news conference. "Poland will not accept this."

(Reporting by Anna Koper, Alan Charlish, Karol Badohal, Pawel Florkiewicz)
WARSAW, Poland  As European nations seek more self-reliance in weapon procurement, a new intergovernmental initiative dubbed the European Defence Mechanism (EDM) could pave the way for closer integration of the continents fragmented defense industries, according to a recent report by Brussels-based think tank Bruegel.

The study was commissioned by Poland, a European Union member state which holds the rotating presidency of the blocs council for the first six months of 2025. The report was presented to the EUs Ministers for Economic and Financial Affairs at an April meeting in Polish capital Warsaw, involving 27 governments in the ensuing debate.

One of its key findings is that better-integrated European defense markets could both stimulate competition and make it easier for new defense companies to launch products. Combining integrated markets and scaled-up procurement could facilitate halving unit costs, according to the think tank.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By pooling demand for military gear and enforcing common standards, European partners can achieve reduced costs, but also incentivize the continents industry players to grow, Guntram Wolff, a senior fellow at Bruegel and a co-author of the report, told Defense News.

We need to work on a European defense funding mechanism for a deeper integration of markets across the European Economic Area. If we dont to that, we will have fragmented markets with national producers supplying to small domestic markets, and the economic cost is going to be very high for individual products, Wolff said.

Expensive products, such as modern fighter jets, will not be developed by individual countries, he added.

At the same time, future discussions on the EDM will be shaped by institutional and political challenges, Wolff said. This is because certain EU member states have constitutional constraints that could stop them from participating in similar mechanisms, and some governments do not want to engage in defense cooperation with other EU partners.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is a political question whether to include non-EU countries in this proposed mechanism, one that would need to be answered by the governments of EU member states, the researcher said. Countries such as the UK and Norway, or even Turkey and, outside Europe, Canada could decide that they want to engage their defense industries in this form of cooperation.

A spokesperson for the Polish Ministry of National Defence told Defense News that the ongoing talks on the EDM are led by the countrys Ministry of Finance, indicating that the discussions are mostly related to the financial aspects of the proposed mechanism.

Together with EU finance ministers, we discussed what I believe is the most pressing issue right now in Europe: security and defense financing, Andrzej Domanski, Polands Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, said in a statement released by the Polish presidency.

We welcome the ReArm Europe Plan, the most ambitious defense plan so far presented by the European Commission, with an up to 150 billion [$170.5 billion] loan mechanism and a greater flexibility in EU fiscal rules.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Since Russia launched a war against Ukraine in February 2022, Poland has boosted defense spending to expand its military and arm it with modern weapons. For 2025, the countrys government aims to allocate a total of PLN 186.6 billion ($49.6 billion) to defense. With the countrys military expenditure expected to reach an estimated 4.7 percent of its gross domestic product this year, Poland has established itself as one of the alliances top spenders.

In response to the new foreign policy course in Washington, officials in Warsaw have doubled down on Polands commitment to defense cooperation with the United States.

A large share of the nations defense budget finances major purchases of weapons from Washington, including the ongoing programs to acquire F-35 fighters jets , Boeing AH-64D copters , M1A2 Abrams SEPv3 tanks , and Patriot air defense batteries , among others.

At the same time, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has declared his Cabinet aims to tighten defense cooperation with EU partners, as well as key European allies such as the U.K. and Turkey, securing weapons and military technology from these countries.
The Polish company Mista has demonstrated a medical version of the Oncilla armoured vehicle for the rapid and safe evacuation of wounded soldiers at the Defence24 Days exhibition in Warsaw.

Source: Militarnyi, a Ukrainian military news outlet; Mezha Media, a technology and IT news platform within Ukrainska Pravda's holding company

Details: The interior of the Oncilla-E is designed to meet the needs of medical personnel, with space for two medics and the ability to transport two prone or several seated casualties.

Mista's Oncilla-E medical armoured vehicle at the exhibition in Warsaw

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Photo: Militarnyi

Militarnyi reported that the armoured ambulances can traverse routes under fire where civilian vehicles cannot, meeting STANAG 4569 level 2 protection standards for defence against bullets and shrapnel.

The Oncilla armoured combat vehicle is a licensed version of the Ukrainian Dozor-B, manufactured by the Polish company Mista. The first unit was assembled in Ukraine before production began in Poland.

Mista's Oncilla-E medical armoured vehicle at the exhibition in Warsaw

Photo: Militarnyi

Ukraine's Armed Forces and National Guard use these armoured vehicles in combat operations, and they are also in service with Ukraine's Defence Intelligence. Militarnyi suggests that the Oncilla-E may also be supplied to the Ukrainian defence forces in the future.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Polish company also produces other modifications of the Oncilla, including a command-and-control vehicle, a standard reconnaissance vehicle, and variants for chemical and radiological reconnaissance.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
WASHINGTON, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV)  Washington Police are asking for the publics help regarding the report of a stolen firearm and reminding residents to lock up valuables.

According to a social media post by the Washington Police Department, officers received a complaint of a stolen firearm in the 1800 block of Grand Ave.

According to the post, the incident is believed to have occurred during the early morning hours of May 6, around 1:15 a.m.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Police are asking for residents to check any video footage for a group of individuals in the area around that time.

Two hospitalized after vehicle flees traffic stop, crashes

The previous night, the department spent time on foot patrol after receiving a report of suspicious activity.

The department reminds residents of the importance of hiding valuables, locking vehicles, taking their keys, and reporting suspicious activity.

The Department took to social media and stated, Its that time of year where things begin to warm up, including thefts. Last night, our 3rd shift spent time on foot patrol after receiving a report regarding a group of individuals in hoodies in the area of E Walnut and NE 11th St. Officers reported locating multiple vehicles with their drivers door open throughout the area. To help ensure you are not a victim of these crimes, please make sure to lock your doors. Also, please report any suspicious activity to Central Dispatch at 812-254-1060 or 911 if it is an emergency. Thank you. Washington Police Department

Anyone with information or surveillance video is asked to contact Officer Jordan Andry at jordan.andry@washington.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 MyWabashValley.com.
(Reuters) - Police in Azerbaijan on Wednesday detained a journalist, Ulviyya Ali, local media reported, amid an ongoing criminal case against six of her colleagues at the independent Meydan TV outlet.

Azerbaijani media said Ali had been placed in pre-trial detention for one month and 29 days on suspicion of smuggling. She was reported to deny any wrongdoing.

Several other journalists have been charged with smuggling in recent months, an accusation they reject as politically-motivated and say is designed to silence critical voices.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Oil-rich Azerbaijan has rejected Western criticism of the arrests, saying comments by Western diplomats and rights groups calling for the release of activists and journalists amount to interference in its judicial system.

It says the arrests are not politically-motivated.

Media rights group Reporters Without Borders says there are 24 journalists and media workers currently detained in Azerbaijan.

(Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Lucy Papachristou; Editing by Andrew Osborn)
(NewsNation)  Protests on the University of Washingtons campus grew intense Monday night as pro-Palestinian protesters clashed with police.

The protesters occupied a campus building, demanding the university cut ties with Boeing over its role in supplying weapons for the war in Gaza. Police ended up making dozens of arrests in the protest.

A group called Students United for Palestinian Equality and Return claims to be behind the campus building occupation, which was UWs new engineering building. Boeing helped fund the new facility, and protesters want the school to cut the financial and educational ties to the company, one of Americas largest defense manufacturers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Columbia University eliminates 180 jobs after federal funding cuts

The occupation lasted several hours with blockades and dumpster fires, and it ended with police storming the building and making 30 arrests.

The University will not be intimidated by this sort of offensive and destructive behavior and will continue to oppose antisemitism in all its forms, UW spokesperson Victor Balta said in a statement.

The protest and swift action to end it comes as the Trump administration continues to crack down on student protesters and universities that allow pro-Palestinian demonstrations.

Its estimated that more than 1,800 college protesters have either been deported, had their visas revoked, or had their immigration status changed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The individuals arrested in the UW protest Monday face charges of trespassing, property destruction, disorderly conduct and conspiracy to commit all three offenses. It is not known how many of the people arrested were UW students, and among those, how many were international students.

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.
MANILA, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The performance of manufacturing production in the Philippines barely hummed in March, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said Wednesday.

Based on the preliminary results of the Monthly Integrated Survey of Selected Industries, the PSA said the year-on-year value of production index (VaPI) rose by 0.4 percent while the volume of production index (VoPI) declined by 0.2 percent in March.

The agency said the average growth rate of VaPI for manufacturing from January to March this year was 0.9 percent.

The PSA mainly attributed the uptrend in the annual growth rate of VaPI for manufacturing in March to the faster yearly increase in the manufacture of food products at 19.2 percent from an annual increment of 13.9 percent in the previous month.

The manufacture of food products contributed 35.4 percent to the uptrend in the VaPI of the manufacturing section in March, the PSA said.

Other primary contributors to the annual increase of VaPI for manufacturing in March were the annual increments recorded in the manufacture of transport equipment, and the manufacture of computer, electronic and optical products.

In March, the VoPI for the manufacturing section registered a slower year-on-year decline of 0.2 percent from its annual decrement of 1.5 percent in February. This brings the average growth rate of VoPI for manufacturing from January to March to 0.2 percent.

The uptrend in the year-on-year growth rate of VoPI for manufacturing in March was primarily driven by the same top three industry divisions that contributed to the upturn in the annual growth rate of VaPI for manufacturing during the period, the PSA said. 
Police in Texas have asked for the public's help in searching for a missing 9-year-old girl, Ava Marie Gonzales, who hasn't been seen since December 2017

Ava's 7-year-old sibling was found "locked in a closet and starving" last month, the Austin Police Department said

The child's mother, Virginia Gonzales, has since been arrested and is facing a serious injury to a child charge

A search is underway for a 9-year-old girl missing since 2017 after authorities found her 7-year-old sibling "locked in a closet and starving," police have said.

On Tuesday, May 6, the Austin Police Department (APD) put out a news release asking for the public's help in locating Ava Marie Gonzales, who "was last seen by family and friends in December 2017" when she was 2 years old.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ava's mother, Virginia Gonzales, was arrested on April 24 and is facing a serious injury to a child charge after her 7-year-old child, Ava's sibling, was found at an address on April 3.

According to the release, Ava is a Hispanic female with straight brown hair and brown eyes, with officials releasing an age-progressed photo of what she could look like today.

Austin Police Department Ava Marie Gonzales is pictured in April 2017 Ava Marie Gonzales is pictured in April 2017

"The Austin Police Department is asking the community for help to find Ava Marie Gonzales, a missing 9-year-old girl," APD Detective, Russell Constable, said at a press conference on Tuesday, per a clip shared on Facebook.

"On April 3, 2025 Austin Police Department responded to a 911 call for a 7-year-old child that was found locked in a closet and starving," Constable told reporters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said the 7-year-old "was immediately taken to a local hospital for medical treatment and is currently recovering," adding that six other children had been found in the home "that appeared physically healthy."

"Austin Police Department's missing person detectives are seriously concerned about Ava's welfare, given the circumstances in which Ava's 7-year-old sibling was found," the officer continued.

"We have information showing that she was born to Virginia. We just don't know where she is right now," Constable said, confirming that Ava's father hasn't yet been identified by police.

He also told reporters that the suspect had "provided conflicting information to many different family members" while discussing whether the family had questioned where Ava was.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Constable also said during the press conference that police weren't aware that any of the children had been enrolled in school.

Austin Police Department Virginia Gonzales Virginia Gonzales

The 7-year-old, who is a girl, was reportedly found by her grandmother, "malnourished, soiled and barricaded in a bedroom closet," according to ABC News, citing an arrest warrant affidavit.

The grandmother called police after finding the girl when she headed to the apartment after Gonzales had been arrested for marijuana possession, the affidavit stated, per the outlet.

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.

The child had allegedly been in the closet for a month and was fed a hot dog or corn dog in the morning, as well as being given half a cup of water daily. According to the affidavit, the girl weighed just 29 pounds when she was taken to the hospital.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

ABC News also reported that the six other children found in the home were between the ages of 2 and 14, citing police.

According to Travis County Sheriff's Office online inmate records seen by PEOPLE, Gonzales is being held on a $75,000 bond.

The Austin Police Department did not immediately respond when contacted by PEOPLE for additional information.



If you suspect child abuse, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child or 1-800-422-4453, or go to www.childhelp.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages.

Read the original article on People
An investigation is underway after a bicyclist was struck by a vehicle near Blue Hills Reservation in Milton on Wednesday.

The crash happened on Blue Hill Avenue near the Blue Hills Trailside Museum just before 12:45 p.m., according to the Milton Police Department.

The Canton Police Department said the northbound side of Route 138 was being detoured at Blue Hill River Road.

Expect significant delays, police warned drivers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Photos from the scene showed the area roped with yellow police tape, debris scattered in the street, and what appeared to be a crumpled bicycle resting in the road.

There was no immediate word on injuries to those involved in the crash.

Boston 25 News is working to learn more about the incident.

MV crash on Blue Hill Avenue near Trailside museum. Avoid the area.  MiltonPoliceMA (@MiltonPolice) May 7, 2025

Traffic Alert:

Rt. 138 (northbound lane) will be detoured at Blue Hill River Rd. due to a motor vehicle accident in Milton.



Expect significant delays.  Canton Police (@CantonMAPolice) May 7, 2025

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
Police officers in Georgia said they had to shoot a peacock that was the cause of numerous calls for injuries and property damage.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The LaGrange Police Department told our sister station, WSB, that they had responded to calls for service about the animal for more than a year and a half. The latest call at Southern Orthopedic and Southern Surgery was around 1 p.m. on April 28.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The officers who responded said they tried using a beanbag gun and other nonlethal or less-than-lethal methods to secure the peacock. When those were unsuccessful, they used a shotgun to kill it.

TRENDING STORIES:

Even after the first two direct hits from the less lethal beanbag, the peafowl was able to fly significant distances, the department spokesperson said. Additional bean bag rounds were fired, followed by lethal shotgun rounds, ultimately dispatching the animal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Another factor in using lethal force was a nearby elementary school and concern for children being let out soon, WSB reported.

It was our fear that vacating the area with the animal already agitated would have dangerous consequences for children arriving home from school and patients who are already less ambulatory, based on the very nature of services that Southern Orthopedic and Southern Surgery provide, they said.

Police said an Animal Control officer was attacked after first responding to the clinic that day.

Officers then tried for quite some time to get close enough to the fowl to lasso it with a catch pole, but could not catch it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The animal would fly far enough away from us so that the entire process would have to start over again, a spokesperson said. We made several attempts at this with no success.

According to WSB, they also tried to incapacitate the bird with a Taser, hoping to stop it long enough to then lasso it and bring it to a nearby animal services truck.

Officers were unable to get into a position in which they would be able to safely, comfortably, and accurately deploy Taser on the small target, given the angle of probe spread associated with this less lethal device, they said.

Following multiple attempts to subdue the bird, and having to block property with officers and patrol vehicles, police said the wild animal had, at this point, repeatedly shown its capacity for violence, and they had to use more force."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Officers then switched to live ammunition, killing the animal with lethal shotgun rounds.

Afterward, the peacocks remains were taken off the property.

In a statement shared with WSB, police said that because peacocks and peafowl are not native to Georgia, nor an endangered species, the Department of Natural Resources does not respond to calls about them.

It should be noted that no local resources, such as animal safaris and local zoos, are willing to take this peafowl into their facilities, they added.

[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
Honolulu police are looking for someone who threw a fire bomb at a house in Waipahu early Tuesday morning.

According to a highlight from the Honolulu Police Department, at about 5 :15 a.m. Tuesday, a man threw a Molotov cocktail near a residence and fled on a moped.

No damage to any vehicles or homes and no injuries were reported. A 46-year-old woman reported the incident to police.

The suspect is unknown and has not been located,  according to police.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A Molotov cocktail is a crude bomb made of a bottle filled with a flammable liquid (such as gasoline ) and usually fitted with a wick (such as a saturated rag ) that is ignited just before the bottle is hurled,  according to Merriam-Webster.

0 Comments By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our.

Having trouble with comments ? .
The Elkhart County Sheriffs Department is investigating the death of a 3-year-old boy that occurred on Friday afternoon.

According to police, the child had been run over by a skid steer in the 61000 block of C.R. 43 in Goshen around 4:11 p.m.

Emergency medical services responded and attempted life-saving measures, but the 3-year-old male was beyond help.

The death is under investigation.

Pennsylvanian injured in Concord Township crash

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A woman was injured in a crash in Concord Township on Tuesday afternoon.

Elkhart County deputies reported at 1:09 p.m. Tuesday, Leslie Nungaray Mondragon, 29, of Elkhart, was at the intersection of Arbor Kove Drive and Old U.S. 20 in a 2017 Kia Sonata waiting to turn left and told police she had enough time and turned left onto Old U.S. 20, but into the path of a 2011 Hyundai Sonata driven by Taisha Rivra, 32, of Easton, Pennsylvania.

Rivera was not wearing a seatbelt and struck her head on the windshield, police said. She was taken to the hospital for the injury.

Mondragon was cited for failure to yield the right of way causing bodily injury and driving without a license.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Freezer on trailer causes Tuesday crash

Two woman were hospitalized after their vehicles crashed into a freezer on Ash Road Tuesday morning.

Elkhart County deputies reported at 10:32 a.m. Tuesday, Bennie Shaw, 75, of Elkhart, was traveling south on Ash Road south of C.R. 16 pulling a trailer containing two unsecured freezers with his 1996 Chevrolet GMT. One of the freezers fell off the trailer and into the northbound lane of traffic, striking a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox driven by Jessica Anderson, 68, of Edwardsburg, Michigan.

The collision sent the freezer back into the southbound lane of traffic, where it struck a 2019 Ford Fusion driven by Denise Snider, 42, of Goshen

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Shaw was cited for operating a vehicle with an unsecured load and failure to provide vehicle registration.

Anderson and Snider were both hospitalized for minor injuries and pain.

ARSON

A 51-year-old woman reported to Elkhart County deputies at 4:30 p.m. Sunday that her neighbors home in the 51000 block of Woodhaven Drive in Elkhart was on fire.

The woman reported that the homeowner had walked away from the house when it caught on fire.

The Cleveland Township Fire Department arrived and extinguished the house fire. The Elkhart County Sheriffs Office is investigating the fire.

HIT-AND-RUN

 A 52-year-old woman reported to Goshen police at 9:31 a.m. Sunday that someone struck her sons vehicle overnight in the 300 block of Oakridge Avenue.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 Goshen police were called to the 1900 block of Lincolnway East at 10:53 a.m. Sunday for a vehicle that backed into another vehicle and left the scene.

 A 74-year-old woman reported to Goshen police at 5:39 p.m. Friday that her vehicle was crashed into at Aldi, 2036 Lincolnway East.

ARRESTS

 A 27-year-old man was arrested and jailed by Goshen police at 6:52 a.m. Sunday on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and possession of cocaine after police were called to the 1100 block of Harvest Drive for a hit-and-run.

 A 30-year-old man was arrested and jailed by Elkhart County deputies at 10:21 a.m. Friday on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and possession of marijuana after police a traffic stop on a gold Dodge Charger.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 A 25-year-old man was arrested and jailed by Elkhart County deputies at 2:22 p.m. Friday on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and without ever receiving a license and possession of marijuana following a vehicle crash near C.R. 6 and C.R. 9.

 A 28-year-old man was arrested and jailed by Elkhart County deputies at 4:25 a.m. Saturday on charges of burglary, domestic battery and invasion of privacy after he allegedly entered a home wherein someone had a restraining order against him without permission and attacked the resident.

 A 52-year-old woman was arrested and jailed by Elkhart County deputies at 10:21 p.m. Saturday on a charge of operating a vehicle while intoxicated after he was stopped near Ind. 120 and C.R. 17.

 A 22-year-old man was arrested and jailed by Elkhart County deputies at 10:46 p.m. Friday on a charge of operating a vehicle while intoxicated endangerment after he was stopped on Ind. 120 at Hilbish Boulevard.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 A 40-year-old woman was arrested and jailed by Elkhart County deputies at 8:02 p.m. Sunday on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated endangerment, disorderly conduct, resisting law enforcement, driving without a license and neglect of a dependent after someone called in a woman driving with an unrestrained child in the front seat of a vehicle near Walmart, 30830 Old U.S. 20, Elkhart.

CRIMINAL RECKLESSNESS

A 52-year-old man reported to Elkhart County deputies that between midnight-2 p.m. April 21 someone shot a tire on his vehicle in the 56000 block of Farmhouse Drive in Middlebury.

SEX CRIME

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 The Elkhart County Sheriffs Office received a report on April 30 from the Indiana Department of Child Services regarding a child possibly involved in an inappropriate relationship with an adult.

 The Elkhart County Sheriffs Office received a report of a child molestation in Elkhart county at 7:42 p.m. April 29.

 The Elkhart County Sheriffs Office took a report of a child molestation at 5:33 p.m. Friday.

BURGLARY

A 25-year-old woman reported to Elkhart County deputies that between 7 p.m. Sunday and 8 p.m. Monday someone entered her home in the 58000 block of C.R. 111 and removed items.

HOMELESS ASSIST

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Goshen police attempted to offer shelter, transportation and social service opportunities to those at a homeless encampment in the 300 block of West Washington Street on Monday. The encampment was found abandoned and deemed to be an environmental hazard due to trash accumulation in a flood zone. The City of Goshen Code Enforcement and Parks Department were notified for clean up.

THEFT

 A 53-year-old man reported to Elkhart County deputies at 7:30 a.m. Friday that someone took vehicles from his parking lot in the 67000 block of C.R. 29 in New Paris.

 A 60-year-old man reported to Elkhart County deputies that between 9 p.m. Thursday and 9 a.m. Friday someone stole a 2022 silver Jeep Grand Cherokee rented from Enterprise from the 21000 block of Angela Drive in Goshen.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 BP, 53031 Ind. 13, Middlebury, reported to Elkhart County deputies at 12:55 p.m. Friday that someone stole lottery tickets from the store.

 A 46-year-old woman reported to Elkhart County deputies at 12:30 p.m. Saturday that her wallet was stolen while she was at Gordon Food Service Store, Elkhart.

 A 42-year-old man reported to Elkhart County deputies that around 9:45 p.m. Saturday that his 20213 Chevrolet Equinox was stolen from in front of Wendys, 55606 Ash Road.

 A 23-year-old woman reported to Elkhart County deputies at 6:12 p.m. Friday that someone she knew refused to return her vehicle in the 29000 block of Carolina Avenue. The vehicle was placed into NCIC/IDX as stolen.

 Goshen police were called to the 3000 block of College Avenue at 4:29 a.m. Monday for a possible theft.

 A man reported to Goshen police at 5:35 a.m. Monday that his 1998 Honda Civic was stolen from his home in the 500 block of Oatfield Lane.

 A 23-year-old woman reported to Goshen police at 12:56 p.m. Monday a statue was stolen from her mothers gravesite in Violet Cemetery, 2700 Violet Road.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF

 A window at Snyders Mens Shop, 126 S. Main St., was found to be damaged by a possible bullet hole at 12:02 p.m. Monday by Goshen police.

 A 35-year-old woman reported to Goshen police at 4:47 p.m. Monday that her vehicle was vandalized in the 900 block of Main Street.

 An Elkhart County corrections officer reported at 2:50 p.m. Friday finding a damaged cell door at the jail.

OFFICERS REPORT

Elkhart County deputies received a report at 11 a.m. Friday of an Amazon package with a white belt and a black bag with racquetball equipment was found behind property in the 26000 block of Roscommon Drive in Elkhart.

FRAUD

A 65-year-old man reported to Elkhart County deputies at 2:59 p.m. Monday received a fraudulent bill.
Police officers found guilty of gross misconduct will face automatic dismissal under rules to root out rogue behaviour.

Officers will be sacked for gross misconduct unless there are exceptional circumstances, under the rules to be introduced from the end of May.

Ministers believe the tougher rules will strengthen the ability of police chiefs to remove officers unfit to serve by setting clear expectations about what should happen to those guilty of the most serious misbehaviour.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

About 500 officers who were guilty of gross misconduct were dismissed or chose to leave the service, official figures from 2023/24 show.

But currently, there is no guarantee that gross misconduct will lead to dismissal. Some 56 officers remained in policing last year despite being found guilty of serious misbehaviour.

Dame Diana Johnson, the policing minister, said: We place a huge amount of faith and trust in the police officers we see in our communities, and it is vital that only those fit to wear the uniform are serving the public.

We cannot let the majority of officers, who are brave and committed to keeping us safe, be tarnished by the few who commit serious criminality or gross misconduct. They, and the public, deserve certainty that those who are unfit to serve will be dismissed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

With our Plan for Change, we are sending the clear message that no matter where you are in the country, the officers serving on our streets are only of the highest standards.

Dame Diana Johnson said those who are unfit to serve will be dismissed - Jordan Pettitt/PA

The legislation, laid in Parliament on Wednesday, will create a presumption of accelerated hearings for former officers, ensuring swifter proceedings for those who resign or retire before they face a misconduct hearing.

Former officers who would have been dismissed had they still been serving will continue to be barred from future service. Unsatisfactory performance procedures are also being streamlined so that underperforming officers are taken through the process more quickly.

Serious criminal offences, where cases must be heard in the Crown Court, will also automatically amount to gross misconduct under the new measures.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These indictable only criminal offences like rape and grievous bodily harm often lead to misconduct proceedings, but it is not currently enshrined in law. It will now be written into statute, making it more straightforward for forces to deal with such cases quickly.

As part of the Governments reform agenda, further measures will be brought in later this year to strengthen national vetting standards and ensure every force follows them, as well as introduce stronger requirements to suspend officers under investigation for violence against women and girls.

Yvette Cooper said police chiefs will be granted powers to sack hundreds of rogue officers who fail background checks - Leon Neal/PA

Last month, Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, announced that police chiefs will be granted powers to sack hundreds of rogue officers who fail background checks.

She is to change the law to allow chief constables to automatically sack officers who fail vetting checks, closing a loophole that prevented unsuitable or unsafe officers from being taken off force payrolls.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Currently, those officers are moved to backroom roles or placed on special vetting leave. Scotland Yard alone estimated it would cost the force at least 2 million a year to continue to pay for officers who have failed the background checks.

Baroness Newlove, the Victims Commissioner, said: Todays changes are a welcome and necessary step toward restoring public trust  and reaffirming the values policing must uphold. Too often and for far too long, red flags have been missed, minimised or ignored.

While only one piece of the puzzle, I hope these measures will help to kick urgently needed cultural change into gear, ensuring only those worthy of the badge are allowed to serve.

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.
ST. LOUIS  St. Louis police are asking for the publics help in identifying and locating four suspects who broke into two bars last month in Midtown and Grand Center.

According to a spokesperson for the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the break-ins took place on April 27. The first burglary occurred around 4:05 a.m. at Hidden Gem Bar in the 3100 block of Locust, while the other burglary happened approximately 10 minutes later at Sophies Artist Lounge in the 3300 block of Washington Avenue.

Police said four suspects in a blue Hyundai Sonata canvassed the street before parking in front of Hidden Gem Bar. One of the individuals exited the vehicle with a concrete brick, which he used to smash the front glass door. That person and a second suspect entered the bar and went for the register. The pair discovered the register was empty, then left in the Sonata with their cohorts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The suspects drove a quarter of a mile and settled on breaking into Sophies Artist Lounge. Again, the suspects threw a concrete brick into a glass door to enter the business. One of the suspects stole four bottles of liquor before fleeing.

Investigators released multiple stills from security videos to the public to identify the suspects.

Courtesy: St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department Courtesy: St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department Courtesy: St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department Courtesy: St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department Courtesy: St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department

Police described the first suspect as a Black male with a medium brown complexion, wearing a navy-blue puffer jacket, ripped jeans, grayish-colored shoes (possibly Jordan 5 Retro Jade Horizon), a black face mask, and dark-colored gloves.

The second suspect was described as a Black male wearing a black-hooded sweatshirt and joggers, black and white Jordan 4s (Thunders), a black and gray checkered manbag, a dark-colored balaclava face mask with fringes, sunglasses, black gloves, and was carrying a large, tan-colored tote bag.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The third suspect was described as a Black male wearing white shoes, black Nike shorts with a large swoosh logo on the left leg, a black jacket/hoodie, and a black balaclava.

Police released no description of the fourth suspect.

Anyone with information on the burglaries can call detectives at 314-444-2500. Tipsters who would like to remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward can contact CrimeStoppers at 866-371-TIPS. Only tips submitted to CrimeStoppers that lead to an arrest are eligible for the reward.

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.
Police are investigating the death of a woman in a Montebello apartment and a man found dead inside a pickup truck nearby Tuesday night.

Officers responding to reports of a shooting in the 800 block of West Mines Avenue and found a woman suffering from gunshot wounds inside an apartment building about 7:20 p.m., police officials said.

The woman was taken to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead, officials said. A resident reported hearing a scream before the gunshots, according to KNBC. Witnesses also told police they saw a truck flee the area, according to KTLA.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Later, a man was found dead inside a truck from a self-inflicted gunshot wound not far from where the woman was found, police said. Police are not looking for any outstanding suspects and said there is no danger to the community.

Police are investigating the homicide. No further information has been released at this time.



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.
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  Police are searching for multiple suspects after a man was shot Tuesday night in northwest Oklahoma City.

According to the Oklahoma City Police Department, the shooting happened near N Western Avenue and NW 114th Street.

Officials say the victim was transported to a local hospital with their condition currently unknown.

Police are searching the area with K-9s for two possible suspects.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is a developing story.

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 KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
Police are planning to spend more than a year building a full-scale replica of part of Grenfell Tower to secure criminal convictions, The Telegraph can disclose.

Scotland Yard has told grieving relatives that the model would be used to help explain to juries how the fire spread in any future trials.

But the length of time to get to trial has left families distraught and questioning whether an inquiry this complex was ever suited to a traditional police force.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Grieving relatives told The Telegraph they feared they would now never see justice over the botched refurbishment of the west London high-rise tower block that led to the most devastating fire in the post-war era.

A spokesman for Grenfell Next of Kin, which represents the close families of about half the deceased, said: The trust is broken in the Met Police and the systems. Now they want to build a tower and on and on it goes.

In a letter to victims families and survivors leaked to The Telegraph, the police chief in charge of the investigation said it was essential that any replica was built to detailed specification and full-scale to help juries understand the case.

The replica would be too large for any courtroom and would have to be constructed inside a warehouse, with juries taken to view it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Det Supt Garry Moncrieff, the senior investigating officer, said no final decision had been taken to go ahead with the reconstruction, but recognising the sensitivities, police wanted to let families know of their plan first.

Complex investigation

In the letter seen by The Telegraph, Det Supt Moncrieff said that the number of investigators now working on the Grenfell Tower criminal inquiry was being increased to 180 at a cost of almost 24 million this year alone. The final police cost is likely to far exceed 100 million.

The senior investigating officer also disclosed that the force was a little over halfway through sending preliminary reports to prosecutors - some eight years after the blaze in which 72 people were killed.

The preliminary reports so far submitted to prosecutors total more than a million words with many thousands of statements, documents and exhibits provided as backup evidence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Police are planning to submit files on 20 separate organisations or companies, and the individual suspects connected to them, by the end of September 2026  more than nine years after the fire in June 2017.

It is unclear how many trials that would entail if all 20 files led to charges. But the prospect of court cases stretching into the 2030s no longer seems fanciful.

In his letter to the bereaved, survivors and residents, Det Supt Moncreiff wrote: As you more than anyone understand, this investigation has taken so long primarily because it is so complex. If there are future criminal trials, then those trials will take place before juries.

The police, CPS, and our team of experts have spent a lot of time thinking about how we could best help those jurors understand really complicated evidence and technical topics.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Part of my role is to work with the CPS, lawyers and experts to consider how best to present complex evidence to a jury, recognising that Grenfell Tower may no longer be there at the time of a trial.

In addition to our photographs, video recordings and 3D scans, we are exploring the possibility of building a replica of a small section of the outside of Grenfell Tower. This would enable us to show juries exactly what Grenfell Tower looked like when it was built and after it was refurbished. If we do build such a replica, I consider it essential that it is built to detailed specification and full-scale to help juries understand the case.

Det Supt Garry Moncrieff speaks at the Metropolitan Police warehouse in south west London, where exhibits are stored from the investigation into the fire - Lucy North

He added: It is important you are told first, even though the final decision to build the replica has not yet been reached.

To build a replica this complex, to the accuracy required for a criminal case, will take over a year. If the CPS do take decisions to charge individuals, companies and/ or organisations, then it is important that we do not create any avoidable delays.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said that if the replica was given the go-ahead, it will be built in a secure and private environment, in a way that will help future juries to understand the case. It is our intention that you would have the opportunity to visit it before any court cases take place.

He said it remained one of the MPSs [Metropolitan Police Services] highest priorities, adding that as a result, the number of investigators working on the case has now risen to 180 from 160 in an attempt to stick to his deadline of submitting a full file of evidence by the end of September next year.

He said the extra staff increased police costs to 23.8 million for the financial year April 2025 to March 2026. The Home Office is contributing 9.3 million.

In his letter, Det Supt Moncrieff said 12 Early Investigative Advice [EIA] files would be submitted to the CPS by the end of last month, out of 20 being planned.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The size of each file is significant, he said, The covering reports of those first 12 EIA files alone, written by the police investigators, contain over a million words and are supported by many thousands of statements, documents and exhibits. The CPS and their team of lawyers will still need to see all of the final evidence brought together in order to reach charging decisions.

Some families have lost faith in the criminal justice system. Any charges have been hugely delayed by the public inquiry, put in place by the then-prime minister, Baroness May, in the immediate aftermath of the Grenfell fire, which took precedence and ran for seven years before publishing its final report in September last year.

In a statement, Grenfell Next of Kin said: After nearly eight years, the immediate families of the deceased have encountered betrayal at every turn and a sense of exploitation regarding the loss of their loved ones, not justice. We need a more efficient justice system.

Despite countless words spoken and hundreds of millions of pounds spent, and the immeasurable harm inflicted on the next of kin of those who died, what we have learned is that our justice system is fundamentally flawed. This investigation has clearly overwhelmed the Met Police.

Reconstruction of events

Maria Jaffari, who survived the blaze but whose 82-year-old father Ali died, said: Nearly eight years have passed and we still have no justice. We dont know how many years its going to take and no one knows whos going to be alive for justice. Maybe not me, maybe not my mother.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Karim Khalloufi, whose sister Khadija Khallouffi, 52, was killed, said: We need accountability and justice more quickly, not a list of excuses as to why they take so long. Maybe my mother will die before having justice for her child. Maybe I will die before seeing justice.

A Met spokesman said: The Grenfell Tower fire is one of the most complex investigations ever undertaken by any UK law enforcement agency. The circumstances are highly unusual in that the criminal investigation and a public inquiry have been conducted at the same time, examining many of the same issues. Though both have examined the same tragedy, their purposes are different and are conducted to different legal standards.

We cannot begin to imagine the impact that waiting for the outcome of our investigation must have on those who lost loved ones, those who survived, and all those affected by the tragedy. However, it is critical that we take great care to get this investigation right, and we have a dedicated team of 180 investigators, supported by leading experts, ensuring that we work as quickly as possible without compromising the quality of what we do.

At the conclusion of our investigation, we will pass a file to the Crown Prosecution Service for charging decisions. That is an independent consideration for the CPS.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, we have recently explained to the bereaved, survivors and residents of Grenfell Tower that we are considering building a reconstruction of some elements of the building, to help future juries understand the evidence should charges be brought. That reconstruction will not impact upon the timescale of the police investigation.

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.
A person works at a restaurant in Madrid, Spain, May 7, 2025. The Spanish government on Wednesday approved a bill to shorten the working week from 40 hours to 37.5 hours, with no reduction in pay. (Photo by Gustavo Valiente/Xinhua)

MADRID, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The Spanish government on Wednesday approved a bill to shorten the working week from 40 hours to 37.5 hours, with no reduction in pay.

The reduction was approved during Wednesday's cabinet meeting, although the measure still requires ratification by the Spanish Congress.

At a press conference following the cabinet meeting, Spain's Second Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Labor Yolanda Diaz said the measure will benefit around 12.5 million workers in Spain, including 2.4 million in the retail sector, 2 million in industry, and 1.4 million in hospitality.

In response, Spain's main employers' organization, CEOE, called for "more collective bargaining and less regulatory imposition." 

A worker loads materials onto a truck in Madrid, Spain, May 7, 2025. The Spanish government on Wednesday approved a bill to shorten the working week from 40 hours to 37.5 hours, with no reduction in pay. (Photo by Gustavo Valiente/Xinhua)

A worker works on a street in Madrid, Spain, May 7, 2025. The Spanish government on Wednesday approved a bill to shorten the working week from 40 hours to 37.5 hours, with no reduction in pay. (Photo by Gustavo Valiente/Xinhua)
FRANKLIN COUNTY, Mo.  A St. Peters man told police he was doing the Lords Work when he stole a car and crashed it at high speed. It was all in an effort, he claimed, to rid the vehicle of a demon.

The Franklin County Prosecuting Attorneys Office has charged Cole Gibson, 30, with two felonies  stealing a motor vehicle and resisting arrest by fleeing  in the crash investigation.

The crash happened on April 29 on Highway 50 following a police chase in Union, Missouri and surrounding areas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Why you may see mice and snakes impaled on Missouri fences

According to court documents obtained by FOX 2, officers first responded to a report of a stolen vehicle from a gas station on Progress Parkway. A suspect, later identified as Gibson, was captured on video entering a victims vehicle without permission and driving away.

Police later attempted a traffic stop on Highway 50, but Gibson refused to pull over for some time and was seen driving at speeds over 85 mph. Court documents state that Gibson failed to make a right turn due to speeding, then veered off the roadway and struck a sign, causing significant damage to the stolen vehicle.

Investigators say Gibson tried to run away after the crash, but he was quickly tracked down and arrested.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Daily News

When questioned by officers on the crash, Gibson confessed to stealing the vehicle and claimed he was doing the Lords work due to the vehicle having a demon in it, per court documents.

Gibson was booked into the Franklin County Jail on April 30 and is being held without 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 2.
WARSAW (Reuters) -Police said on Wednesday they had detained a 22-year-old Polish man after he killed one person with an axe at Warsaw University, in an attack the institution described as a "huge tragedy".

"Police have detained a man who entered the University of Warsaw campus. One person died, another was taken to hospital with injuries," Warsaw Police said in a statement on X.

They said the incident occurred at around 6:40 p.m. (1640 GMT), when the man attacked people on the campus with an axe, adding that the detainee was a 22-year-old Polish citizen.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gazeta Wyborcza daily reported that the attacker was a third-year law student.

Private broadcaster Polsat News reported that a woman's severed head and an axe had been found at the university.

A spokesperson for the district prosecutor's office declined to comment on whether a severed head had been found.

The spokesperson said that a female administrative employee of the university had been killed at the scene and a security guard was injured and was taken to hospital in critical condition.

He said that the attacker had entered an auditorium at the university.

Reuters reporters at the scene saw police vans and a cordon around the auditorium where the attack took place.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Rector of the University of Warsaw said in a statement that May 8 would be a day of mourning at the institution, calling the attack a "huge tragedy".

"We express our great sorrow and sympathy to the family and loved ones," the statement read.

(Reporting by Barbara Erling, Karol Badohal, Alan Charlish, Kacper Pempel, Kuba StezyckiEditing by Gareth Jones, Nick Zieminski and Chizu Nomiyama)
The biggest fashion statement at Mondays Met Gala wasnt any of the flamboyant outfits worn by celebrities, but a smartly tailored black blazer sporting a giant union logo.

The jacket  featuring the logo of the International Ladies Garment Workers Union, once an affiliate of the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) emblazoned on the back  was worn by Rosa Lander, the daughter of New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, who is also a Democratic candidate for mayor.

The University of Chicago student accompanied her dad who, as an ex-officio member of the museums board (along with opponents Eric Adams and City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams), gets free tickets to the star-studded fundraiser for the Metropolitan Museum of Arts Anna Wintour Costume Center.

New York City Comptroller and mayoral candidate Brad Lander and his daughter Rosa attended the Met Gala on Monday, with Rosa donning a pro-union political statement on her jacket. WireImage

Rosa explained that her outfit, designed by Parron Allen, honored union activist Floria Pinkney, a Brooklyn-born seamstress who was the first African-American woman to lead the International Ladies Garment Workers Union. Getty Images

But one political analyst accused Lander of using the Met Gala to bolster his campaign and court much-needed union backing from the New York City Central Labor Council AFL-CIO, a federation of about 300 unions which represents more than a million workers including teachers, construction workers, truck drivers and hospitality workers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Landers campaign is flagging, so of course he is absolutely courting anyone to endorse him at this point, said strategist Hank Sheinkopf. At this point hell take anybody he can get to endorse him.

He added that state assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, a socialist candidate for mayor, is taking far left-wing support away from Landers campaign. Last month, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Local 161  the union representing theatrical and stage workers 

In 2021, the New York City branch of the AFL-CIO endorsed Lander for city comptroller and Eric Adams for mayor. But the powerful union, known as the New York City Central Labor Council, has not yet endorsed a candidate for the June Democratic primary, a spokesperson said. (Adams is running as an Independent.)

Lander is in a distant third place for the Democratic primary, behind Andrew Cuomo and Zohran Mamdani. Paul Martinka

On April 20, The Post reported that the Democratic primary for mayor was increasingly turning into a two-person race, with support growing for both ex-Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Mamdani, according to a poll by the Honan Strategy Group.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lander remained a distant third.

Come get ready with me to be the least famous person at the Met Gala, said Rosa Lander in a TikTok video  ending with the Lander for Mayor logo  that also features her father explaining why they are attending the event.

In 2022, New York City Mayor Eric Adams donned a tuxedo with an anti-gun message at the Met Gala. REUTERS

New York City Mayor Eric Adams wore a tuxedo with anti-gun messages designed by Brooklyn artist Laolu Senbanjo at the Met Gala in 2022. Getty Images

The city allocates more than $30 million a year to the Met, including more than $11 million to cover utilities.

Hey, my dads running for mayor, said Rosa in a behind-the-scenes TikTok on her fathers account that showed the two of them entering the museum.

Rosa explained that her outfit honored union activist Floria Pinkney, a Brooklyn-born seamstress who was the first African-American woman to lead the International Ladies Garment Workers Union in the 1920s.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Brad and his family have a deep commitment to workers rights, said a spokeswoman for Landers campaign Tuesday. Rosa was honored to work with Brooklyn-based designer Parron Allen to design a piece that represented the Met Galas theme and the contributions that black garment workers and designers have made to fashion.

New York City Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez donned a gown with the slogan Tax the Rich on the back during the 2021 Met Gala. Getty Images For The Met Museum/Vogue

The theme of this years event and accompanying exhibit is Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.

In recent years, politicians have used the heavily covered celebrity event, hosted by Vogue editor Anna Wintour, to publicize their positions.

In 2022, Mayor Adams modeled an anti-gun violence tuxedo jacket designed by Brooklyn-based artist Laolu Senbanjo.

A year earlier, New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez wore a controversial white gown by Brother Vellies with Tax the Rich in red letters across her back, and with a matching slogan on her bag.
ILLINOIS (WTVO)  M3 Strategies has found nearly 50% of Illinois residents who participated in a poll would move out of the state if they could.

The poll had a random sample of 550 likely voters express whether they would leave or stay in Illinois, and the reason they would leave.

54% of Participants cited high taxes as the number one reason for wanting to leave.

According to another report, Illinois residents pay 10% of their annual income to state and local taxes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The analysis, by WalletHub, found that income, property, sales, and excise taxes combined cost each Illinois taxpayer 10.2% of their annual pay.

The study found that property taxes counted as the largest portion of residents tax burden, at 3.81%, with state excise and sales tax at 3.78%.

WalletHub also found that Illinois ranked 7th in the United States for the highest state and local tax burden, behind Hawaii, New York, Vermont, California, Maine, and New Jersey.

33% of respondents cited the economy as their reason for wanting to move out of Illinois, while 25% said state government, 20% said crime, 19% said housing, 13% said education and 11% said immigration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
A poll has shown that 47% of Ukrainians, as of early May, have fairly positive expectations regarding the signing of a US critical minerals deal.

Source: the poll, conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology

Details: The survey also found that 22% of respondents anticipate negative consequences from the deal, 19% believe it will have no impact on Ukraine, and 12% were undecided.

Sociologists noted that the current balance of positive and negative expectations stands at +25%, indicating that positive views prevail.

In terms of regions, there are slightly fewer positive expectations in Ukraine's east and west, although in both cases, the share of those with negative expectations does not exceed a quarter, and the balance of positive and negative expectations remains positive (given the rather small sample size in each region).

For reference: The KIIS survey was conducted on 2 May by telephone, using a nationwide sample of adults residing in government-controlled areas of Ukraine. A last-minute addition to the survey included a question about the perceived impact of the agreement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The field phase of the survey is set to continue until mid-May 2025, but as of 6 May, 561 interviews have been conducted. This sample size is sufficient to draw preliminary conclusions, with a margin of error of 5.4% at a 95% confidence level and a design effect of 1.3. According to KIIS, the final results are unlikely to differ significantly.

Background:

On 1 May, Ukraine's Economy Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko and US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent signed the minerals deal.

On 2 May, the Ukrainian government submitted the Kyiv-Washington agreement on the establishment of the Reconstruction Investment Fund to parliament for ratification.

On the same day, Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal expressed hope that parliament would ratify the minerals agreement with the US by 8 May.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval and Republican challenger Cory Bowman will advance past the May 6 primary to the fall election.

Unofficial results with all precincts in showed Pureval with 82.5% of the vote. Republican Bowman was in second with 13% of the vote.

The race attracted international interest. Bowman's half-brother is Vice President JD Vance.

Since the top two advance to the general election, third-place finisher Republican Brian Frank was eliminated, garnering 4.5% of the vote.

'City is on the right path'

Cincinnati mayoral candidates (from left) Cory Bowman, Brian Frank, and incumbent Aftab Pureval.

Pureval expressed gratitude to the people of Cincinnati.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Based on the early returns, Im incredibly grateful for the citizens of Cincinnati giving us an opportunity," Pureval said. "Hopefully, it makes a positive statement. I'm not sure I can read anything into it other than the people think the city is on the right path."

Despite coming in a distant second, Bowman said the gains he made as votes came in encouraged him.

"What I will say is that looks like he had a good head start, but we're kind of catching up a little bit," Bowman said. "So once I see the numbers there, I'll know what our mission, our focus needs to be going into November.

Pureval laments low turnout

It's been a wild three-month race that's garnered international attention. There's the half-brother of Vice President JD Vance, a candidate who campaigned outside the city limits, two raucous debates and a question about a "ridiculous hat."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Yet despite that, it was a historically low turnout. Only 10% of Cincinnati voters showed up to the polls.

The turnout disappointed the mayor.

"Given the chaos and uncertainty from the federal government, now is the time for voters to be engaged and exercising their voice," Pureval said. "That is also on me. Ive got to do a better job of making government relevant to people and making sure they see themselves in their local government."

Who ran for Cincinnati mayor

Vance on Tuesday urged people to come out and vote for his half-brother Bowman. Yet most Cincinnatians decided to stay home for the primary.

Pureval, the Democratic incumbent, is seeking his second term. Two Republicans sought to unseat him. There's Bowman, the half-brother of Vance and pastor of a church in the West End.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And then there was former P&G executive Brian Frank, a Navy veteran who worked at Procter & Gamble for 23 years in procurement.

What early results showed

While political parties get involved, the race for mayor is officially nonpartisan.

Bowman's relation to the vice president has brought international attention to the mayor's race, including a lengthy profile in Politico. Vance hasn't gotten involved, at least publicly. He did not contribute to Bowman's campaign, according to the latest finance reports filed in April.

Cincinnati mayoral candidate Cory Bowman makes a statement as polling numbers show him trailing behind incumbent mayor Aftab Pureval, and advancing to the general election, at his election night party in the West End neighborhood of Cincinnati on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

At Bowman's party

Dozens of people mingled Tuesday night between Bowmans coffee shop in Cincinnati's West End neighborhood and an event space across the street at an election watch party that felt more like a neighborhood block party, with pop music booming from speakers and children jumping in a bounce house.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bowman said he was happy to see Vances endorsement post on X earlier today but when he and his half-brother get together they dont usually talk politics.

We were talking about Star Wars yesterday, he said with a laugh.

Cincinnati staunchly Democratic

Republicans haven't had a candidate for Cincinnati mayor since 2009, when Brad Wenstrup lost to Mark Mallory. Wenstrup four years later ran for Congress in the 2nd Congressional District and won.

Pureval, as the lone Democrat and current mayor, has a heavy advantage in a city as blue as Cincinnati. Voters chose Kamala Harris over President Donald Trump, 76% to 24%. All nine Cincinnati City Councilmembers are Democrats.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati mayor race will be Pureval, Bowman
Following the death of 88-year-old Pope Francis on Easter Monday, several cardinals who were already in Rome, or who traveled only short distances to arrive, held the first of several meetings  general congregations  to discuss preparations for the papal funeral and the election to follow.

The College of Cardinals  which will elect the next pope  has 252 members, but only 135 can vote. Only those younger than 80 as of the day of a popes death may cast a ballot. Theoretically, church law allows the College of Cardinals to elect any Catholic man in the world to become the next pope  but in reality, as has been the case for more than 600 years, one of those cardinal-electors will almost certainly be Francis successor.

As a specialist on medieval Catholicism and worship, I have studied how the role of cardinals has developed over time and how it has changed in the 20th and 21st centuries.

How role of cardinals evolved

During the early centuries of Christianity, three classes of ordained minsters came about to lead and serve Christian communities: bishops, priests, and deacons.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bishops supervised local church communities and presided at liturgical ceremonies in the main churches  cathedrals. Priests advised the bishops and led individual communities  parishes. Deacons tended to the needs of the poor, widows, and orphans, and they took care of community finances. They also had a special role during some worship services and often acted as the bishops secretaries.

Over time, seven of these deacons in key Roman churches served as special advisers to the bishop of Rome, the pope. They came to be called cardinals, from Latin cardo  meaning hinge  and cardinalis meaning key or principal. Later popes would choose priests and bishops to be cardinals as well.

Electing the pope

In the earlier centuries, popes would be elected by the clergy and people of the city of Rome. As time went on, these elections could be manipulated by local civic leaders, wealthy families, and political leaders outside of Rome and Italy.

It was not until the 11th century that Pope Nicholas II formulated a process for selecting a new pope: election by an assembly of cardinals. However, it was not always possible for all the cardinals  known as the College of Cardinals  to come together, due to age, illness, or distance. Those who had to travel long distances might arrive too late to vote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In order to avoid continued outside interference, Pope Gregory X in the 13th century adopted a new procedure: the conclave. Cardinals would remain in a locked location  from the Latin cum clave, with a key  in isolation from outside influences until the election concluded.

The rules governing the conclave changed slightly over the years. The leader of the College of Cardinals is called the dean of the college. Over the centuries, his duties have come to include organizing the conclave, assisted by other Vatican officials. The size of the college has also varied over time but has steadily increased despite efforts to limit its size.

Starting in the 19th century, popes began expanding the size and geography of the college. Once dominated by European and especially Italian cardinals, popes began to choose new cardinals from different areas of the globe. For example, the first cardinals born in North America were named: John McClosky, archbishop of New York, was named cardinal in 1875; James Gibbons, archbishop of Baltimore in 1886, and Elzear-Alexandre Taschereau, archbishop of Quebec, also in 1886.

The College of Cardinals receives final instructions from the Grand Marshal before adjourning to the Sistine Chapel to begin voting for a new pope in 1922. Bettmann via Getty Images

The expansion of the college gathered momentum in the mid-20th century. The first native-born bishops from Asia were named at this time  for example, from China in 1946, Japan and the Philippines in 1960, and Sri Lanka in 1965. The first native-born cardinals of both Mexico and Uruguay were named in 1958, and the first native-born African of modern times, from Tanzania, was named in 1960. Popes continued this trend through the later 20th and early 21st centuries.

Different visions

By the time of his death, Francis had named a large number of new, non-European cardinals, especially from the Global South, where Catholicism is expanding. Currently, out of a total of 252 cardinals, 138 are non-European. Importantly, out of a total 135 cardinals eligible to vote, 82 are not from Europe, which makes a record number of non-Europeans eligible to vote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In addition, at this conclave, 80% of the cardinal-electors have been named by Francis: That is 108 cardinals out of 135. This is an overwhelming number, representing a wide variety of Catholic communities from several different cultures. A new pope must be elected with a two-thirds majority of the votes: a total of 90 votes. If no candidate receives 90 votes, balloting continues as scheduled.

As I see it, there are several issues likely to arise and influence the vote for the upcoming election. Some of the cardinal-electors may want to choose a cardinal with more progressive views. But other cardinals, even if chosen by Francis, still might prefer to choose a more conservative candidate, to moderate what they see as the progressive agenda of the past 12 years. Their appointment by Francis doesnt mean that they automatically agree with all of his ideas.

In addition, specific issues facing the church will also shape opinions. Perhaps the most important include dealing with the scandal of clergy sexual abuse cases, the role of women in the church, and the treatment of immigrants and other instances of economic and social injustice.

Catholics around the world will be praying for the Holy Spirit to guide the hearts and minds of the cardinals as they fill out their ballots. Many will hope for a pope as inspiring as his predecessor, one who can face the challenging problems of an increasingly complex world.

Joanne M. Pierce is professor emerita of religious studies at College of the Holy Cross.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

The post Pope Francis Filled the College of Cardinals With a Diverse Group of Men  Now Theyll Be Picking His Successor appeared first on Katie Couric Media.
by Xinhua writer Zhao Bochao

BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) -- This year marks the 80th anniversary of victory in World War II (WWII). Chinese President Xi Jinping travels to Russia on Wednesday for a state visit and celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War.

The commemoration stands as a powerful reminder of the brutality of war, the precious hard-won peace and stability, and the importance of historical truth -- especially at a time when the world is grappling with a resurgence in unilateralism, economic coercion and hegemonic mentality.

What is alarming is that in recent years, there have been repeated attempts to distort or deny the legacy of the WWII victory. These attempts, drawing widespread criticism and concern, have reminded the world of the necessity to safeguard the integrity of the history of WWII.

WHO IS DISTORTING WWII HISTORY?

In these years, politicians from certain countries have sought to achieve political gains by manipulating historical truth.

"We are witnessing increasing efforts to rehabilitate Nazism and racial supremacy, glorify Nazis and their collaborators, and revive practices of racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance," Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told Xinhua in a recent interview.

In March, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, while attending a memorial service on Iwo Jima to honor those who died in one of WWII's pivotal battles, claimed Japan as being indispensable in tackling "Chinese aggression" and complimented the "valor" of Japanese soldiers.

Hegseth's remarks sparked sharp criticism, with many viewing them as an attempt to whitewash Japan's militarism during WWII. His comments were also seen as a betrayal of those who sacrificed their lives in anti-fascist fight.

Such attempts to distort or deny the history of the World Anti-Fascist War are not new.

After WWII, as the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union intensified, Washington chose to support Japan as a strategic counterweight in Asia. In doing so, the remnants of Japanese fascism were not fully eradicated.

Until this day, some right-wing Japanese politicians still refuse to renounce Japan's militaristic past, and even question or deny the outcomes of the war.

They continue to pay tribute to the notorious Yasukuni Shrine, which honors 14 convicted Class-A Japanese WWII war criminals, revise high school history textbooks to downplay Japan's wartime atrocities, and deny the forced recruitment of "comfort women" by the Japanese military during WWII.

"In recent years, Japan has recklessly tampered with textbooks, and the theory of no guilt for aggression has a relatively large market in Japan," said Sun Huixiu, an associate professor with the School of History at Beijing Normal University.

Similar historic revisionism took place in the West. There have been attempts by some Western countries to downplay or even completely deny the role of the Red Army and the Soviet people in the victory over Nazism.

A survey conducted by IFOP, an international market research group, in May 1945 showed that 57 percent of French people credited the Soviet Union with having made the greatest contribution to Nazi defeat, compared to just 20 percent backing the United States and 12 percent Britain.

However, by 2018, a YouGov survey showed a dramatic shift in public perception: 56 percent of the French believed the United States played the most important role, 11 percent credited Britain, and only 15 percent recognized Russia's contribution.

WHY HISTORICAL TRUTH SO IMPORTANT?

During the deadliest military conflict in human history 80 years ago, more than 80 countries and regions, involving roughly 2 billion people, were drawn into the war. More than 100 million worldwide were killed or wounded, and global economic losses exceeded 4 trillion U.S. dollars.

To resist fascist aggression, more than 50 countries, including China and the Soviet Union, formed a united front. As the main theater in the East during the World Anti-Fascist War, China paid a heavy price -- over 35 million casualties in its fight against the majority troops of Japanese militarism.

Preserving the truth of history is the most meaningful tribute to the soldiers and civilians who perished during WWII. It is also a foundation for reconciliation between former belligerent nations.

"How should we respond to the sin of the Holocaust for which we should take responsibility? Summing up the past can be a prerequisite to reconciliation," said former German Chancellor Angela Merkel during her visit to Japan in 2015.

More importantly, as noted by Xi at the general debate of the 70th session of the UN General Assembly back in 2015, history is a mirror, and only by drawing lessons from history can the world avoid repeating past calamities.

After WWII, the Allied powers carried out the Nuremberg and Tokyo Trials, which marked the first time in human history that war criminals were prosecuted before an international tribunal, delivering rightful punishment, upholding international justice and sending a powerful warning to fascist forces.

Based on the WWII victory, key members of the anti-fascist alliance jointly initiated the founding of the United Nations and formulated a series of important international documents including the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation and the Charter of the United Nations, which laid the foundation for the modern international order and established the basic norms governing contemporary international relations.

"These instruments helped to hold fascist crimes accountable, and through a series of institutional frameworks, effectively placed a 'security lock' on the postwar world to help preserve peace," said He Lei, former vice president of the Academy of Military Science of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, in an article.

Since the end of WWII, the world has witnessed a level of global prosperity unprecedented in human history thanks to the largely peaceful era it has been in. "We need to firmly remember the history of WWII and maintain the world political and economic order," said Sun.

"Today, it seems no one disputes that the victory over fascism and militarism was one of humanity's greatest achievements in the 20th century," said Kirill Babayev, director of the Institute of China and Modern Asia at the Russian Academy of Sciences.

This underscores that Russia and China must remain at the forefront of preserving this memory, he noted.

"In the global agenda, we must uphold a position that demands full respect for historical truth, rejects its distortion, and, above all, safeguards the memory of those who perished during World War II while defending our freedom," he added. 
Rep. Jermaine Johnson, D-Columbia (right), talks with Rep. Wendell Jones, D-Greenville, in House chambers on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. Johnson fought to add earmarks back to the state spending plan on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. (File photo by Mary Ann Chastain/Special to the SC Daily Gazette)

COLUMBIA  The Anne Frank Center, support programs for foster children, and treatment for sickle cell disease were among the proposals for state aid the House rejected Tuesday amid a pause in budget earmarks.

Rep. Jermaine Johnson knew his proposed additions to the state budget package stood little chance of passing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But the Columbia Democrat wanted his colleagues to hear more about the aid they were dismissing by refusing to fund any earmarks.

His 37 amendments  all unsuccessful  were offered as the House revised its $14.4 billion spending package ahead of negotiations with the Senate on a final budget for the fiscal year starting July 1. Spending thats already the same in both chambers plans, such as teacher raises, is locked in.

Last month, Senate Finance Chairman Harvey Peeler announced the 2025-26 state budget would not include any spending requested by legislators for local projects, or whats called earmarks.

Johnson called them community investments.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Is this pork? I dont think this is pork, he said after each proposal, emphasizing how important each were to communities.

Even while calling for members to reject Johnsons proposals, Republican leaders often said they did so reluctantly. Any earmark wouldnt survive budget negotiations, they said.

There are a lot of really good projects. There are members who have good ideas to make their districts better, but Im going to ask to table this amendment, said House Ways and Means Chairman Bruce Bannister, R-Greenville, pledging that its not a permanent end to the investments.

But Johnson said the House should send a message to Peeler, who has said a one-year hiatus was needed to rein in local spending that had climbed into the hundreds of millions of dollars annually.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Are we going to stand up and do whats right and fund what needs to be funded? Johnson asked.

The worst part of finding out the budget would include no earmarks, he said, was calling organizations and telling them no money was coming. It meant at least two people he called would no longer have a job, he said.

Among his proposals were $750,000 for two separate programs researching and treating sickle cell disease; $175,000 to a nonprofit that offers help for people with severe mental illness, and $213,000 to reuse a restored Rosenwald School as a childrens museum. (Rosenwald schools were built across the South for Black children with the help of philanthropist Julius Rosenwald, former president of Sears Roebuck & Co., between 1917 and 1932.)

He asked his colleagues how they could turn down just $50,000 to the EMS Closet, which provides clothing to children in poverty. Trying to pull on heartstrings, Johnson said he relied on programs like that as a teen, when his family was homeless. When he asked for $350,000 to help people adjust to blindness, Johnson talked of his grandfathers blindness from glaucoma.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Youre going to hear a bunch of people across the state, Johnson said. Theyre going to be saying, What happened to this? What happened to that? Where did it go? What are we going to do here?

House Republicans empathized.

Rural districts rely on earmarks for major projects they cant otherwise afford, said Rep. James Teeple.

When you look at rural communities, they dont have the tax base, the Johns Island Republican said. They dont have the ability to do these larger projects that would improve their community.

Rep. Kathy Landing, R-Mount Pleasant, said she requested funding to restore Long Point Schoolhouse, a historic Black school that residents of Snowden had hoped to turn into a museum.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A lot of us are hurting too and we do want to find a solution, she said, referring to Republicans. There are a lot of us upset about this.

Last year, McMaster vetoed $150,000 from the Legislatures final budget package designated to the schoolhouse due to paperwork issues, so Landing had hoped to get the money this year, she said.

It broke my heart to have to let them know that this wasnt going to happen this year, Landing said. Ive been scrambling everywhere I can, and Im not just talking for myself. Im talking for a lot of other people in this room.

Rep. Nathan Ballentine, R-Chapin, gave a history lesson for new members on how earmarks were handled in the not-so-distant past  secretive spending funneled through agencies without any transparency. Not even legislators knew what was hidden in the budget.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We have come a long way in a few years, said Ballentine, who leads the Ways and Means subcommittee over state aid to public colleges.

This, he said, referring to Johnsons proposal of $500,000 for the University of South Carolinas Anne Frank Center, is an example of a good investment, as are requests for local law enforcement, fire departments and infrastructure.

Unfortunately, this year were going to say no,' he said.

Hes hopeful the spending will return for such worthy projects next year with an improved process.

Peeler has said future spending on local projects may go through a new grant program, involving an application and vetting process, instead of legislators making requests on behalf of their local governments and nonprofits.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Spending on pet projects had gotten out of control, said both chambers chief budget writers.

Two years ago, the total spending on earmarks surged to $713 million. Last year, it hit $435 million. Critics have said the process allowed legislators to spend taxpayer dollars with little vetting.

We are taking a one-year pause, just to consider better ways to do those community investments and make sure that we are getting the return on the investment that we want to get, Bannister said.

Legislators have stressed that the money is never guaranteed, so no one should rely on them. Still, some organizations and projects may not be able to survive a year without the money, Johnson said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Earmarks are valuable resources for the people of South Carolina, and you just killed them, Johnson said. You just killed them.

SC Daily Gazette Editor Seanna Adcox contributed to this report.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
LIMESTONE COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT)  The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency says a portion of Interstate 65 southbound is closed after a multi-vehicle crash.

ALEA said the crash occurred around 6:52 p.m. Tuesday and is causing a road blockage.

The agency said that the southbound lanes of I-65 from mile markers 334 to 361 in Limestone County were closed as of 7:44 p.m. ALEA said the lanes were back open as of 9:51 p.m.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Morgan County Sheriffs Office said an 18-wheeler is believed to have been involved in multiple wrecks in the area along the Tennessee River Bridge southbound. MCSO said the truck left the scene and was located smoldering at the Priceville exit.

The sheriffs office said multiple people were injured.

The agency said Alabama State troopers are monitoring the situation and will 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 WHNT.com.
May 6A Portland man is appealing a judge's decision not to let him withdraw his guilty plea after he was sentenced to 35 years in prison for a fatal shooting on Woodford Street.

Damion Butterfield, 25, took a deal at the end of his December 2023 trial  just before the jury delivered its verdict  admitting he killed a man and injured another woman in a fatal robbery in April 2022. The jury's decision was never released.

Butterfield was one of four man accused in the shooting that killed Derald Coffin and injured Annabelle Hartnett in Portland. The group had conspired to rob them on April 26, 2022, while Coffin was inside Hartnett's car parked on Woodford Street, court records show.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But shortly after his trial and before sentencing, Butterfield moved for the judge to throw out his guilty plea and declare a mistrial. Superior Court Justice MaryGay Kennedy denied his request in May 2024, saying his trial was fair and that he made an "informed and considered" decision to plead guilty.

Butterfield's attorney, James Howaniec, appeared before the Maine Supreme Judicial Court at the York Judicial Center on Monday afternoon to challenge Kennedy's denial, saying that one after-hours email exchange derailed the entire trial.

Howaniec told the court that he was blindsided by a decision that allowed jurors to find Butterfield guilty of murder either as the shooter or the accomplice. Kennedy made this decision around 7 p.m. before the next day's closing arguments and notified the attorneys over email.

The instructions were confusing, Howaniec argued, and by the time the jury sent in another note asking for clarification on the instructions, Butterfield thought he would be found guilty and entered a plea, despite his lawyers advising him against it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Howaniec said Butterfield made his decision "under duress" and said his decision was tainted by unclear jury instructions. But Assistant Attorney General Leanne Robbin argued that Butterfield entered his plea "knowingly" and strategically to avoid more time behind bars.

"The defense calculated that Butterfield could avoid a guilty verdict by pleading guilty, having the jury discharged, and withdrawing his plea after the verdict could no longer be read," she wrote in a brief. "To succeed in such manipulation would be a gross miscarriage of justice."

Robbin also said the new trial would be unfair to the surviving victim "when the man who attempted to murder her has already admitted that he attempted to murder her."

In taking the deal at trial, Butterfield waived his right to appeal the verdict and agreed to serve 35 years in prison. He faced 25 years to life for the murder charge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Are you pleading today because you are guilty?" Kennedy asked him at the time.

"Yes," Butterfield replied.

Copy the Story Link

We believe it's important to offer commenting on certain stories as a benefit to our readers. At its best, our comments sections can be a productive platform for readers to engage with our journalism, offer thoughts on coverage and issues, and drive conversation in a respectful, solutions-based way. It's a form of open discourse that can be useful to our community, public officials, journalists and others.

We do not enable comments on everything  exceptions include most crime stories, and coverage involving personal tragedy or sensitive issues that invite personal attacks instead of thoughtful discussion.

You can read more here about our commenting policy and terms of use. More information is also found on our FAQs.

Show less
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A Portland man was sentenced to 24 years in prison after using TikTok and other social media applications to facilitate child sex crimes, authorities said.

Shawn Alan Smith was sentenced in a federal court on Monday after using fake social media accounts to pose as a child online for the purpose of enticing a young child to send him sexually explicit images of herself, the U.S. Department of Justice said in a press release.

Car theft task force on the chopping block, DA says

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to court documents, between July 11 and September 15, 2020, Smith used multiple fake online social media personas, including several on KIK messenger and TikTok, to communicate with a nine-year-old child, federal officials said. While posing as a minor himself, Smith instructed the child victim to take sexually explicit photos of herself and send them to him, which she did. Smith also engaged in a video chat with the child while pretending to be the father of one of his fake online personas. At the time of the offense, Smith was a registered sex offender following prior state criminal convictions for child pornography offenses in Oregon and Maryland.

When federal agents descended on Smiths Portland apartment with a search warrant on March 9, 2022, he threw his phone and computer out his bathroom window while the agents tried to enter the front door he had barricaded.

Smith pleaded guilty to two counts of online enticement of a minor and receipt of child pornography on January 21. He was sentenced to 288 months in federal prison, a life term of supervised release and ordered to pay restitution to his victims.

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.
May 6The city of Portland has filed a lawsuit against the Maine Department of Health and Human Services hoping to overturn a new rule that will cut millions of dollars in emergency shelter funding for the city.

The complaint was filed in Cumberland County Superior Court in Portland last week, arguing that the rule was not changed through the proper process and should be considered void. The city also asks for a temporary injunction barring the rule from being implemented while a judge considers the lawsuit.

No court dates have been scheduled yet.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If the rule holds, Portland leaders have said it will be difficult for the city to continue operating the shelter without a sharp tax increase or pulling from an emergency fund.

"We're not just going to hope for resolution in the Legislature, we're also going to seek an answer in the court. We're not going to be passive," Portland Mayor Mark Dion said in a phone interview Tuesday.

Rule 26 went into effect on April 1 and formalizes how the department determines shelter costs, 70% of which are reimbursed through General Assistance.

The city has said it costs $84 per guest, per day, to operate the shelter, but based on the new rule, the state said it should only cost $48 per guest per day.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The state is now using a standard known as the "zero-bedroom rate," equal to that of operating a studio or efficiency apartment for each guest. That number is adjusted annually and is based on location-specific fair market rents established by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development.

View this document on Scribd

The state has said that Rule 26 simply formalizes an existing policy, but the city has argued that the cost of running such a large emergency shelter is not aligned with the zero-bedroom rate set by HUD.

A spokesperson for DHHS declined to answer questions about the filing because it is an active legal matter. The agency has not filed any responses in court.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

THREE COUNTS

The city's complaint outlines three requests. First, it asks that the courts overturn the adoption of Rule 26 because it should have been brought before the Legislature as a substantive policy change, rather than an internal hearing.

"If they adjusted schedules, that would be fair for the agency to decide. But this is more than that," Dion said. "It should have gone to the Legislature. This was more than just a housekeeping rule."

Dion argues that Portland has been substantially impacted by the rule change, especially when it comes to its budget and ability to provide shelter services.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The newly proposed city budget accounts for $12 million in state and federal funding cuts, including the General Assistance reimbursement changes resulting from Rule 26.

A draft budget presented by City Manager Danielle West proposes closing that gap by pulling $8.8 million from the city's rainy day fund, while still raising taxes by 6.2%. Without the rainy day funds, city leaders said the tax rate could have increased by 15.1%

The complaint also asks for a temporary injunction to prevent the rule from applying to Portland. And it seeks to overturn a violation issued to the city in the fall that says its reported operating costs for the city shelter were too high.

Dion said the City Council unanimously decided to pursue legal action against the state after meeting with the city's lawyer, Michael Goldman, in executive session last month. He said the session was focused simply on fighting to overturn the violation, but that the council ultimately agreed the city has legal ground to fight the rule change in court.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"This is a very serious decision, but the state's actions have placed us in a very precarious position as far as the budget is concerned," said Dion.

He plans to continue to petition the Legislature for more GA funding even as the case unfolds in court.

"I think most everyone has come to the conclusion that we are a service center city that, for all sorts of reasons, finds itself trying to discharge a state responsibility  so it's a fair expectation that we get adequate funding from the state to carry out that responsibility," he said.

Copy the Story Link

We believe it's important to offer commenting on certain stories as a benefit to our readers. At its best, our comments sections can be a productive platform for readers to engage with our journalism, offer thoughts on coverage and issues, and drive conversation in a respectful, solutions-based way. It's a form of open discourse that can be useful to our community, public officials, journalists and others.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We do not enable comments on everything  exceptions include most crime stories, and coverage involving personal tragedy or sensitive issues that invite personal attacks instead of thoughtful discussion.

You can read more here about our commenting policy and terms of use. More information is also found on our FAQs.

Show less
A 60-year-old woman was killed early Tuesday when her SUV crossed the center line on Vermont Route 7 and collided with a school bus.

Dana Zazinski was pronounced dead at the scene shortly before 7:30 a.m. The driver of the bus, which was not carrying any students at the time of the crash, was taken to Southwestern Vermont Medical Center with minor injuries.

Vermont State Police said witness statements and other evidence showed that Zazinski was traveling north when she crossed the center line for an unknown reason and collided with the bus.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The investigation shut down VT 7 for a significant amount of time, 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 ABC22 & FOX44.
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  Local organizations are collaborating to bring free skin cancer screenings to parts of the Miami Valley.

Premier Health and Wright State Physicians Dermatology will host the screenings to promote early detection and prevention. Wright State Physicians will conduct the screenings.

There will be screenings on May 7, 8 and 9.

May 7  from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Coffman YMCA in Springboro.

May 8  from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Upper Valley Cancer Center in Troy.

May 9  from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Wright State Physicians Dermatology in Fairborn.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the two organizations, signs of skin cancer include a mole or growths that meet the following criteria:

Are bigger than 6 mm (or the size of a pencil eraser).

Change in size, shape, or color.

Have different colors in them, such as tan, brown, or red.

Have ragged edges.

Itch or are sore.

Redden or swell at the edges or beyond.

Vary in shape; one half doesnt match the other half.

Registration is required 24 hours before the screening. Call 866-608-3463 to register.

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.
May 7 (UPI) -- A conclave of as many as 250 Catholic cardinals at the Vatican produced black smoke, indicating no result, following the first vote to elect a new pope on Wednesday evening.

When a new pope is elected, white smoke will be emitted from a small chimney placed atop the Sistine Chapel, but Wednesday's first vote produced black smoke, CNN, Fox News and NBC News reported.

The process of electing a new pontiff to replace Pope Francis, who died April 21 at the age of 88, began at 5:30 p.m. local time when members of the College of Cardinals entered the 15th-century Sistine Chapel, where they will remain sequestered and vote up to four times daily until they reach a decision.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

All cardinals have a say in the proceedings, but only 133 can vote in the secret balloting beneath Michelangelo's Last Judgment masterpiece.

A two-thirds majority, 89 votes, is required for a candidate to be elected as the Catholic church's new pope.

The outside world is kept updated of progress -- cardinals are not permitted to communicate with anyone except fellow conclave members -- through smoke signals from a specially installed chimney on the roof.

The first of those post-vote signals is expected Wednesday evening, with the release of black smoke from burning spent ballot papers, indicating no decision has been reached, while white smoke will proclaim a new pope.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The past two conclaves, which produced Pope Benedict and Pope Francis in 2005 and 2013, respectively, took less than 36 hours.

Conclaves in previous centuries have lasted for weeks or months, with some cardinals dying before a decision was reached.

Insiders told The Independent that support was coalescing around four main contenders, including Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, Hungary's Peter Erdo, Jean-Marc Aveline of France and the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Pierbattista Pizzaballa.

But as many as a dozen others are in the running to become the 267th pope, including Archbishop of Bologna Matteo Zuppi, Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines and Peter Turkson of Ghana.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The man who will very much depend on the late Pope Francis' dominant so-called "Bergoglian" faction opts to back an alternate candidate, someone seen as likely to pursue his progressive agenda, or the status quo candidate, Parolin.

The day kicked off with a mass for the election of the pontiff in St. Peter's Basilica, led by the Dean of the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re, and was attended by 5,000 people, the Vatican said in a news release.

Shortly after 4:30 p.m., the 133 Cardinal electors will gather in the Pauline Chapel to pray the Litany of the Saints, ahead of a procession into the nearby Sistine Chapel.

The conclave process dates back 750 years, according to the Vatican, and was first held in the Sistine Chapel in 1492 but only became its permanent home in 1878.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Vatican was an early adopter of democracy, implementing secret written ballots for the conclave in 1621.

Argentine-born Francis, who died of a stroke and heart failure last month after a bout with double pneumonia, ended a 13-century-long run of European-born pontiffs.

The election in 1978 of the Archbishop of Krakow, Poland, John Paul II, broke a 455-year-long run of all-Italian popes. He was posthumously canonized by Francis in 2014.
CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY)  Following last months cuts to AmeriCorps by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) that impacted 250 people across West Virginia, organizations that benefited from the cuts, like the Preservation Alliance of West Virginia (PAWV), are trying to figure out what to do next.

This will have a big impact on our program, our organization, and just overall on the sites that weve been working with, PAWV Executive Director Danielle Parker said.

The cuts also affected 22 members who worked across 20 historical sites under the PAWVs Preserve WV AmeriCorps Program. Parker said that although PAWV has been working with 20 historical sites this year, they work with hundreds around the state, often having members do service projects at sites that arent actually hosting AmeriCorps members.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For the preservation and cultural heritage tourism industries that we have in the state, they are gonna be severely impacted, Parker added. Because were being affected on many different fronts here.

Parker said that the PAWV utilizes arts and humanities funding a lot and that this funding is also being proposed for elimination. She told 12 News that the organization has also been using AmeriCorps members for over a decade to help staff some of these sites so that theyre at capacity.

Unforgiving cuts in Washington could force Clarksburg History Museum to close

Keeping these places open is now going to be a much harder thing to do because there is no mechanism, said Parker. Its very challenging for counties and communities to obtain money from their county commission or their city government to support these sites.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Parker said that members of the PAWV are concerned about deferred maintenance of sites that are publicly-owned, as well as whatll happen to collections. Overall, she said that these funding cuts will affect the organizations reach and its ability to go out and assist other sites.

According to Parker, the PAWV recently established a historic trades team with members on its statewide site to do hands-on projects. However, due to the elimination of this AmeriCorps funding, the organization is having to pull some of these people back while looking for other avenues to help support them.

Were seeing that were going to be stunted in the growth of training historic trades professionals as well for our state, where were already seeing a decline in available craftspeople, she added.

Once the organization found out about the cuts last week, it notified the affected sites right away so that they could begin planning. Parker said that the sites losing their members are trying to find ways to keep them on, with some of these sites, like the Clarksburg History Museum, even resorting to fundraising.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We are trying to transfer members to other programs that have not been defunded yet, said Parker. So thats a little tricky because youre still seeing that maybe the sites will still lose their members. So maybe they move to another program thats in their community, but theyre doing something entirely different.

Parker added that the PAWV is trying to consider the option of transferring sites and members to programs that overlap with their programmatic area(s). She said that there are currently two programs in the state that could possibly take on a site, but the organization is still in the process of working through those details.

When asked if the organization was given a reason for these cuts, Parker stated that the reasoning they received wasnt definitive. We were told that we no longer align with the administrations priorities, but not why we no longer align, she added.

Parker stated that since the PAWV is doing workforce development through the AmeriCorps program, she would think that they would be in alignment. She added that shes not sure what the program did that no longer follows suit, and that it makes things difficult to plan for the future.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sometimes funding priorities change and you know, you try to work through that, said Parker. So, were trying to figure out how we can do that right now.

Parker encouraged the public to take a look at the full list of the sites affected by these cuts. The historical sites in north central West Virginia are as follows:

Arthurdale Heritage in Preston County

Clarksburg History Museum in Harrison County

Morgantown History Museum in Monongalia County

Northern Appalachian Coal Mining Heritage Association in Marion County

If youve visited any of these sites, please know that they are under threat from multiple angles right now and that this is a time to try and support them if youre able to, Parker added. Whether youre volunteering, donating, learning more about what they do.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You can find more information about the Preservation Alliance of West Virginia and the entities that they serve on the organizations 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 WBOY.com.
UNITED NATIONS, May 6 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday called for military restraint from India and Pakistan.

In a note to correspondents issued by his spokesperson, the UN chief expressed deep concern over Indian military operations across the Line of Control and the international border with Pakistan.

"The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan," the note said.

On Monday, the secretary-general warned that the tensions between the two South Asian neighbors had reached "their highest in years."

He offered his good offices to both governments to help defuse tensions and promote diplomacy, stressing that "a military solution is no solution."

Guterres once again strongly condemned the terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22. "Targeting civilians is unacceptable -- and those responsible must be brought to justice through credible and lawful means," he said.

Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following a deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam in the Indian-controlled Kashmir on April 22. 
President Trump announced he wanted to create two new holidays with a themed focus for both.

In a post on Truth Social on Monday, the president said that the United States never took credit for winning the two world wars that it fought in, and he believes it is time to change this.

His post dictates that there will be two new national holidays to commemorate the United States' victory in World War I and in World War II. The president listed these dates as the final dates for each war.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the same Truth Social post, offices will not close on either holiday as, "We already have too many Holidays in America."

Here is when we can expect to see these new national holidays on the calendar.

When did World War I end?

According to the National World War I Museum and Memorial, the Armistice, which marked the end of the war, occurred on Nov. 11, 1918. The Armistice signaled the end of the war between Germany and the Allied forces, of which the United States was a part. Though several armistices were signed in 1918 to bring about the end of the war, the Nov. 11 armistice is credited as the end of the war.

The United States made the decision to enter World War I on April 4, 1917, after Congress voted in support of President Woodrow Wilson's measure to declare war on Germany. Nineteen months later, the First World War would come to an end in November 1918.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The only caveat to President Trump's plan is that another national holiday already happens on Nov. 11  Veterans Day.

Prior to Veterans Day, Nov. 11 was still a recognized day as Armistice Day, which was designated in 1926. However, in 1947, the first celebration of the holiday, newly termed as Veterans Day, took place in Birmingham, Alabama.

In 1954, the 83rd U.S. Congress amended the 1938 act that made Armistice Day a holiday, removing the word armistice in favor of veterans. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the legislation on June 1, 1954, and it has been a national holiday to honor American veterans from all wars ever since.

When did World War II end?

In his post, President Trump states that the Second World War ended on May 8, 1945. According to the National World War II Museum, this is true, but only for European troops.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While the war ended in Europe in May, the United States continued to fight against Japan through the summer. It was not until Sept. 2, 1945, that formal surrender documents were signed aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay between the United States and Japan.

How to create a national holiday?

National holidays differ significantly from federal holidays. While both can be recognized, offices and businesses only close on federal holidays rather than national ones. In the United States, there are 11 federal holidays recognized.

Congress votes on federal holidays through a legislative process similar to that used for lawmaking. There is no formal system in place to determine and designate national holidays in the United States, unlike the system for federal holidays.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Trump declares new national holidays, one of them on Veterans Day
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  Having worked in public broadcasting for decades, New Mexico General Manager Franz Joachim said hes used to threats of funding cuts. But he said this time feels different. Both in tone and in quantity. Its coming at us from a lot of different angles, said Joachim.

Story continues below

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The latest effort is President Donald Trumps executive order aimed at slashing federal funding for PBS and NPR. The impact on public radio and TV stations across the country differs, but for New Mexico PBS, it would be a funding loss of 18%. Its very possible if funding goes away, we need to extend ourselves further and reach out further to serve more,e as other stations need to contract or even in fact go away, he said.

Public Radio station, KUNM, which said 85,000 New Mexicans rely on every week, would also be impacted. The current actions to defund CPB and local public radio and TV stations will crush public radio and TV in New Mexico and all across the nation. Not just this year, but forever. Our job now is to save public media here and around the country, said Richard Towne, General Manger of KUNM. KUNM is a self-supporting department at the University of New Mexico  meaning we raise all of our operating funds ourselves. We dont have direct funding from UNM or the State of New Mexico.

He said KUNM gets about $270,000, or 12% of its budget, from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. According to PBS, the average American pays $1.60 in federal taxes to fund CPB.

President Trumps executive order argues the 1967 Congressional act mandating public media is outdated given new technology and the access it provides to media today. I know 12 communities where we are the only over-the-air service available to them, and these are not communities that have broadband accessible to them, said Joachim.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The executive order also accuses NPR and PBS of being biased and unfair. But Joachim said that because they are funded by the government, they are obligated to follow particular rules and are monitored by the FCC. So, Im not sure how theyre going to make the case we arent acting correctly in that language when theyve been monitoring it the entire time that weve been in existence, he said.

While national PBS leaders are exploring legal options to fight the executive order, theyre also encouraging people to engage in their Protect My Public Media campaign. You take away that federal funding, we cannot fulfill our mandate, our congressional mandate. We operate under congressional rules to say you should be there, and in New Mexic,o we take that very, very seriously, said Joachim.

KRQE News 13 reached out to the Republican Party of New Mexico for comment on the executive order but did not hear 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 KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
Prince Harry is in Las Vegas attending a conference in support of his late mother's charity, the Diana Award

He was joined at the event by Diana Award CEO Dr. Tessy Ojo, and it marked the prince's first public appearance since he gave an explosive interview following the loss of his legal appeal to restore his security in the U.K.

May 6 also marked Harry's son Prince Archie's sixth birthday, as well as the second anniversary of the coronation of his father, King Charles

Prince Harry is in Las Vegas to support the only charity established in memory of his mother, Princess Diana.

The event supporting the Diana Award marks his first public appearance since giving a bombshell interview about losing his legal appeal to restore his security in the U.K.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On May 6, the Duke of Sussex, 40, stepped out in Las Vegas to attend ServiceNow's Knowledge 2025 conference. PEOPLE exclusively confirmed that he would join Diana Award CEO Dr. Tessy Ojo at the summit to launch the charity's pledge to Invest initiative, a campaign encouraging businesses to invest in the next generation of youth leadership.



At the event, Harry took part in a discussion hosted by two Diana Legacy Award recipients  Sikander Sonny Khan, from Michigan, and Christina Williams from Jamaica. The conversation focused on youth leadership and how employers can proactively create pathways for young people to enter and thrive in the workplace.

The Diana Award Diana Award CEO Tessy Ojo, Prince Harry and Diana Award Legacy Award winner Sonny Khan at the event in Las Vegas on May 6, 2025 Diana Award CEO Tessy Ojo, Prince Harry and Diana Award Legacy Award winner Sonny Khan at the event in Las Vegas on May 6, 2025

Through the Diana Award, I've had the privilege of meeting young people who have turned adversity into action. Thats not just inspiring  it's the kind of untapped potential we cant afford to overlook, Harry said. Far too many young people are locked out of leadership pipelines because weve failed to build truly inclusive and accessible pathways.

Related: Prince Harry Says He Cant See Bringing Archie and Lilibet Back to the U.K.: Theyre Going to Miss Everything

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He added, This generation isnt waiting for permission to lead  they are already doing it. They bring emotional intelligence, social awareness, and an honesty about mental health that previous generations struggled to express. What sets them apart isnt just their boldness, but their refusal to settle for the status quo.



Turning to the two Legacy Award winners and panellists, Harry said, Every single young person has potential. From a younger generation standpoint, in an apathetic world, theres more empathy in this generation than Ive ever seen before. When they stand up for themselves and stand up in their communities, that is what we need. We need fearless leadership. So I tip my hat to both of you and what you represent.

The Diana Award Prince Harry, with (from left) Tessy Ojo, Sonny Khan and Christina Williams in Las Vegas on May 6, 2025 Prince Harry, with (from left) Tessy Ojo, Sonny Khan and Christina Williams in Las Vegas on May 6, 2025

The Diana Award was founded in 1999, inspired by Princess Diana's faith that young people have the power to change the world. It doubles as one of the only charities that her sons, Prince Harry and Prince William, both still support following the Duke of Sussex's step back from his royal role in the U.K. in 2020.

May 6 is also a meaningful day on the royal calendar, as it marks Prince Archie's 6th birthday (which Meghan Markle marked with a new photo on Instagram) and the second anniversary of King Charles' coronation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last week, a British judge dismissed Prince Harry's legal appeal to reinstate his automatic, state-funded security while in his home country, the latest twist in a case Harry has long been fighting.

The Diana Award Prince Harry taking part in the discussion about the Diana Award's Pledge to Invest campaign in Las Vegas on May 6, 2025 Prince Harry taking part in the discussion about the Diana Award's Pledge to Invest campaign in Las Vegas on May 6, 2025

The Duke of Sussex's legal team has described this legal battle as a fight for his life, and he bared all to the BBC in an interview that aired later in the day on May 2.

Related: Prince Harry Loses Critical Court Appeal for Restored U.K. Security

"I cant see a world in which I would be bringing my wife and children back to the U.K. at this point," he said in a searing revelation about the idea of traveling back without the security protection. The Duke of Sussex and his wife share son Prince Archie and daughter Princess Lilibet, 3.

"Theyre going to miss is, well, everything," he added about his kids, whom he and Meghan are raising in California. "I love my country. I always have done. Despite what some people in that country have done."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Harry added, "I miss the U.K., I miss parts of the U.K., of course I do," adding, "I think that its really quite sad that I wont be able to show my children my homeland."

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

The stripping of security is said to have exacerbated the fractures amid a strained relationship between Harry and King Charles. The Duke of Sussex's legal team maintains that the courts failed to properly assess the risks posed to him and his family in the U.K. Because the King is ceremonial head of state, Harry has suggested that his father could help restore the security he is fighting for, an idea the palace denies.

"All of these issues have been examined repeatedly and meticulously by the courts, with the same conclusion reached on each occasion," a palace spokesperson said on Friday.

Read the original article on People
Prince Harry has taken a step away from his U.K. security appeal disappointment to keep the memory of his mother alive.

The embattled Prince is not letting the loss of his appeal deter him from giving honor to whom it is due, in the person of his late mother, with whom he shared very fond memories, Princess Diana.

Prince Harry has expressed his desire to leave the United Kingdom out of his family's future travels indefinitely, as his appeal to reinstate his U.K. security got tossed last week.

The Diana Award Marked Prince Harry's First Sighting Since U.K. Security Verdict

Express Syndication / MEGA

Prince Harry made a public appearance in Las Vegas at the ServiceNow Knowledge conference to support the Diana Award. The Diana Award is a charity established in 1999 to celebrate the memory of his mother, Princess Diana.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Diana Award was inspired by Princess Diana's belief in the potential of young people to make a difference in the world. It remains a significant charity supported by both Prince Harry and Prince William, even after the Duke of Sussex stepped back from his royal duties in the U.K. in 2020.

Prince Harry's appearance at the event also marked his first public engagement since his interview regarding the loss of his legal appeal for security in the U.K.

At the ServiceNow Knowledge 2025 conference on May 6, Harry joined Dr. Tessy Ojo, CEO of the Diana Award, to launch a new initiative encouraging businesses to invest in youth leadership.

During a discussion with two recipients of the Diana Legacy Award, Sikander 'Sonny' Khan and Christina Williams, Harry emphasized the importance of creating pathways for young people in the workforce.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He remarked on the inspiring potential of youth who have turned adversity into action, pointing out that many young people are currently excluded from leadership opportunities.

He praised this generation for their emotional intelligence, social awareness, and willingness to address mental health issues, qualities he feels set them apart from previous generations.

Per PEOPLE, Harry celebrated the courage of young individuals who advocate for themselves and their communities, calling for more fearless leadership.

The Prince Is Gutted About His Family's New Life Without The United Kingdom

MEGA

Following the announcement of his disappointing verdict, Prince Harry granted an interview to the BBC, where he candidly discussed his future plans.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As noted by The Blast, he expressed deep reluctance about bringing his wife and children back to the U.K., stating, "I can't see a world in which I would be bringing my wife and children back to the U.K. at this point."

Despite this, he acknowledged the profound sense of loss his family feels, saying they would miss "everything" about the country he loves.

With a hint of sadness and humor, he reflected on his longing for the U.K. and lamented that he would be unable to show his children his homeland in the future.

Harry also raised concerns about changes in his security status, noting that the committee inexplicably downgraded him from a "high-risk" to a "low-risk" classification without properly evaluating his circumstances.

Harry Insisted His Father, King Charles, Could Resolve His Security Issues

MEGA

Prince Harry also referenced the ongoing security challenges he faces and suggested that a more direct involvement from King Charles could help resolve these issues.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He emphasized the importance of reconciliation with his family, especially given his father's health struggles, as King Charles is currently undergoing cancer treatment at the age of 76.

Harry acknowledged the preciousness of life and expressed concern for his father. The Prince stated that the situation could ultimately be addressed by allowing experts to take the necessary steps, rather than through royal intervention.

Currently, things have completely broken down between the father-and-son duo as the King has reportedly stopped picking Harry's calls or replying to his text messages.

Sources close to Harry shared that he is very frustrated with the wall the King has put up, further deepening the extent of their current estrangement.

The Duke Of Sussex Earned The 'Narcissist' Tag From Critics

ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

The surprise interview sparked considerable debate, amassing over 55,000 views and nearly 4,000 comments from viewers expressing various opinions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Many critics have taken aim at Harry's remarks, questioning his assertions about his intelligence relative to judges and the court, with one viewer labeling him as "narcissistic." Others have accused him of gaslighting, suggesting he abuses victims and then blames them for a lack of communication.

Several comments highlighted Harry's claims regarding security assessments, with one person responding incredulously that many people lack basic necessities, such as shelter and safety, let alone risk assessments.

Additionally, critics admonished Harry for allegedly disrespecting his late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, by making allegations of racism that could tarnish her reputation.

The sentiment among some commenters was clear: they believe Harry has forfeited his royal privileges by stepping down from his official duties and publicly criticizing his family.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One noted that his decision to leave the royal fold and speak negatively about the institution has led to the loss of security and strained family ties.

Prince Harry And His Family Left The United Kingdom After RAVEC's Broken Promise In 2020

James Whatling / MEGA

As 2020 kicked off, Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, sought to establish a new life outside the royal spotlight to balance their royal responsibilities and personal independence.

During discussions with Queen Elizabeth, they expressed their vision of creating a "happy house" for their family. Following the Sandringham Summit in January 2020, there appeared to be a shared understanding regarding their need for security.

However, court documents revealed that, despite initial support from Queen Elizabeth for their security needs, the RAVEC, the committee responsible for making security decisions, changed its position shortly thereafter.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This reversal ultimately resulted in Harry and Meghan losing their protection, marking a pivotal moment in their journey to find peace outside the borders of the United Kingdom.

Will Prince Harry take another shot at restoring his U.K. security?
Prince William and Kate Middleton are ensuring their only daughter does not experience life in the Royal Family like her controversial uncle, Prince Harry.

The Prince and Princess of Wales' ward, Princess Charlotte, recently made headlines after royal biographer Robert Hardman addressed her unique position as a spare to her brother, Prince George.

The royal biographer claimed Prince William and Kate Middleton will never let Princess Charlotte endure the same hardships her uncle alleges he experienced as a spare. However, some fans believe Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, are just whiny royals.

Prince William and Kate Middleton Are Protecting Princess Charlotte's Royal Path

MEGA

During a recent interview, Hardman highlighted the Prince and Princess of Wales' protective nature. He stressed that they were very protective of their children, especially Charlotte, noting they wished to spare them from negative experiences down their royal path.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Charlotte's position in the Royal Family as a spare to George, the future heir, is a delicate situation for the Wales, given Harry's never-ending complaints about his time as a spare.

The royal biographer claimed William and Kate wished to avoid the pitfalls the Duke of Sussex experienced, noting it was one of their most important duties as parents.

William, especially, took Charlotte's spare position seriously, with Hardman claiming he was not just "preparing to be King himself but to make the whole royal existence approachable and not scary for all his children."

The author of "The Making of a King" noted the late Queen Elizabeth II was similarly concerned about spares, telling PEOPLE:

"The late Queen [Elizabeth] was always very conscious of that extraordinary and challenging role of the No. 2. That's why she had a particular soft spot for [her sister] Margaret, for [her son] Andrew and Harry."

Inside Prince Harry's Alleged Struggles As A 'Spare'

News Licensing/MEGA

Hardman stressed that the late Queen "understood being second place in a strictly hierarchical family and institution has its challenges," and she wasn't alone in her worries. "Everyone is conscious of that," the royal biographer added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The royals being "conscious" of the challenges spares face might be linked to Harry's controversial tell-all memoir, "Spare." In the scathing book about his life and time in the Royal Family, the Duke of Sussex alleged it was painful living as number 2.

"I was the shadow, the support, the Plan B. I was brought into the world in case something happened to Willy," he wrote. Harry claimed that living as the spare eventually led to tension and rivalry with his older brother. He also alleged there were moments when he felt dismissed or devalued.

"My family had declared me a nullity. The Spare. I didn't complain about it, but I didn't need to dwell on it either. Far better, in my mind, not to think about certain facts... But no one gave a d-mn whom I traveled with; the Spare could always be spared," Harry lamented in his memoir.

The Prince And Princess Of Wales Are Doing Things Differently

MEGA

To avoid the alleged pain and suffering Harry endured as a spare, a source claimed William and Kate are raising Charlotte to "strike a balance between private life and duty."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The young Princess has already made history as the first female royal to not lose her place in the line of succession to a younger brother, thanks to the Succession to the Crown Act 2013.

While her parents are determined to do things differently, some critics believe they don't have to worry about raising Charlotte to be nothing like Harry. These people blamed the Duke of Sussex for turning out the way he did and refused to acknowledge his alleged painful experiences in the Royal Family.

"Harry was always included... never treated like a 'spare' William, Catherine & Harry did multiple engagements together, including Invictus. Harry had a more easy life, of course, not a huge responsibility like William. But it was Meghan who made Harry feel insecure & a spare," someone argued on X.

Critics Refuse To Sympathize With The Sussexes

MEGA

The criticism against the Duke of Sussex continued with another noting that Harry dug his own grave with bad decisions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Prince Harry is an idiot who wants more than he deserves. To take care of his children and wife, and shut up. The Waleses have a strong family and are always there for their children," the X user stressed.

Another echoed similar sentiments, writing, "Harry and his wife are riddled with jealousy they're a bit deranged." A third agreed, noting Charlotte and her brothers must live with the shame of having Harry as their relative.

"Their uncle will go down in history as the jealous, insecure brother who married for lust," the critic quipped. While others bashed the Sussexes, one X user sympathized with Charlotte.

The individual pointed out how difficult it was for the Princess to be her younger brother, Prince Louis' nanny. They noted she was always ensuring her sibling wouldn't act out at public events, noting how mature she was.

Princess Charlotte Embodies Royal Custom At Queen Elizabeth's Funeral

MEGA

The comment about Charlotte's maturity brought to mind the Princess' appearance at Queen Elizabeth's funeral. The Blast covered the story, reporting she wore her first piece of significant jewelry to the 2022 event, a custom for royals.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Charlotte wore a diamond horseshoe brooch pinned to the left side of her black coat to honor the Queen's love of horses. The stunning jewelry was also gifted to her by her late great-grandmother.

The Princess's embodiment of royal customs continued by wearing a large black hat for the first time, a custom for British women when attending formal events. The Princess was seven at the time, and no amount of mature clothing could hide the heartbreak the little girl felt.

Pictures from the funeral captured Charlotte breaking down in tears as she bid her final farewells to the late monarch. She attended the event with her brother George and her parents, but the Sussexes also participated.

Will Prince William and Kate Middleton be able to ensure Princess Charlotte doesn't experience any pitfalls like Prince Harry?






Princess Charlotte just turned 10 years old on May 2, and she has exhibited similarities to another royal.

Princess Anne kept her brothers King Charles, Prince Andrew, and Prince Edward in line, just as Charlotte is known to do the same with her brothers Prince George and Prince Louis.

Charlotte will likely inherit Annes Princess Royal title someday, if she chooses to accept it when that time comes.







Princess Charlotte is not just her mother Kate Middletons mini-me, but she also already has numerous characteristics resembling her great-grandmother Queen Elizabeth. But when it comes to Charlottes feisty side, she takes after the royal whose title she may one day inheritPrincess Anne, the only sister of King Charles.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Annethe daughter of the late Queen and Prince Philip and also the sister of Prince Andrew and Prince Edwardis known not only as the hardest working royal but for being outspoken, witty, and pull-no-punches. As the Princess of Wales once said herself of her only daughter, Charlotte is the one in charge, and Charlotte frequently keeps both her older brother Prince George and her younger brother Prince Louis in line at royal engagementsmuch as Anne has kept her own three brothers in line over the years (or attempted to, anyway).

Getty Princess Charlotte on December 6, 2024 Princess Charlotte on December 6, 2024

Getty Images Princess Anne Princess Anne

Of Charlotte, royal commentator Phil Dampier told Hello!, Shes a kind soul with a reputation for being feisty and keeping her brothers under control. He added that Charlotte reminds me of the Princess Royal [Anne], as shes a strong character and able to tell her brothers what to do.

Charlottewho just turned 10 years old on May 2made history when she was born in 2015, as she is the first female royal in the British line of succession to not be jumped by a younger male in line, and Dampier added, Because Charlotte is the first princess to be above a living brother in the line of succession, she is growing up with a sense of responsibility. She is great pals with George and Louis, but also a sensitive and clever sister who can guide and help them.

Getty Princess Charlotte, Prince George, and Prince Louis on May 5, 2025 Princess Charlotte, Prince George, and Prince Louis on May 5, 2025

Dampier added that Charlotte has been a great source of strength for Kate during her cancer treatment last year (the Princess of Wales announced in January that she is in remission), and has the maturity of a young Queen Elizabeth, he added. Winston Churchill once said of Queen Elizabeth that he had never seen such maturity in a child so young, and Charlotte seems to have inherited that trait from her great-grandmother, to whom she bears an uncanny resemblance, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

From the start, William and Kate have been keen to avoid the heir and spare dynamic that has permeated the relationships of several other royal siblings, like Queen Elizabeth and her younger sister Princess Margaret, King Charles and his younger brother Prince Andrew, and, of course, Prince William and his younger brother Prince Harry, the latter of whom was so negatively affected by said dynamic that he named his 2023 memoir Spare to reflect its impact on his life.

Getty Prince Harry on April 8, 2025 Prince Harry on April 8, 2025

The late Queen was always very conscious of that extraordinary and challenging role of the No. 2, royal biographer Robert Hardman told People. Thats why she had a particular soft spot for Margaret, for Andrew, and Harry. She understood being second place in a strictly hierarchical family and institution has its challenges. Everyone is conscious of that.

William, Hardman added, sees his role as not just preparing to be king himself but [also] to make the whole royal existence approachable and not scary for all his children.

Getty Prince William, Prince George, Prince Louis, Kate Middleton, and Princess Charlotte on May 5, 2025 Prince William, Prince George, Prince Louis, Kate Middleton, and Princess Charlotte on May 5, 2025

Charlottewho is one day expected to take on Annes Princess Royal titleis being raised to strike a balance between private life and duty, a source told People.

Read the original article on InStyle
ILLINOIS (WTVO)  Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker has agreed to testify before Congress on his states sanctuary laws shielding illegal immigrants from federal authorities.

Pritzker will join fellow Democrats, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and New York Mayor Kathy Hochul, before the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee.

The committees chairman, Rep. James Comer (R-Kentucky), announced Pritzkers appearance on Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Trump Administration is taking decisive action to deport criminal illegal aliens from our nation but reckless sanctuary states like Illinois, Minnesota, and New York are actively seeking to obstruct federal immigration enforcement. The governors of these states must explain why they are prioritizing the protection of criminal illegal aliens over the safety of U.S. citizens, and they must be held accountable, Comer said.

According to Pritzkers office, the Governor will attend the June 12 hearing to discuss his track record on public safety and the implementation of bipartisan state laws.

The U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Illinois, alleging the state and the city of Chicago interfere with federal immigration enforcement by violating the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution.

Illinois prevents local authorities from cooperating with U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement (ICE) by way of the TRUST Act, the Way Forward Act, the Welcoming City Act, and a Cook County ordinance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Illinois Republicans in the state Senate have introduced legislation that would repeal the Trust Act. Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raouls Office said the TRUST Acts purpose is to build trust between law enforcement and migrants residing in Illinois.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson defended his citys sanctuary city policies before the committee in March. Those policies partially contributed to Johnsons 80% disapproval rating in a February poll.

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.
Credit: X/@habibi_uk - X/@nicolelampert

A pro-Palestine protester shouted Zionists will die at Jewish people holding a vigil for the Israelis held hostage by Hamas.

Campaigners gathered in Leeds on Tuesday to call for the release of all remaining hostages, but they were disrupted by a group of activists waving Palestinian flags, one of whom told them they were Satanic Zionists.

A female demonstrator was filmed at the vigil shouting: Zionists will die! Satanic Zionists! Satanic Zionists!

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In other clips, she was recorded saying to one of the anti-Semitism campaigners: Youre nothing, youre a Zionist.

In a reference to the Israeli declaration of independence in 1948, she added: Stealing peoples land from 1948. Coming and stealing peoples land. Lets go get your house. Lets go get your house, Satanic Zionist.

She was also recorded saying: Israel is a piece of s---. Meanwhile, other activists chanted: From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free.

A spokesman for West Yorkshire Police said the force had recorded a public order offence in relation to the incident.

A policeman was present during the incident but did not make any arrests.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The anti-Semitism campaigners were holding signs that read Free the hostages now and We cant fight anti-Semitism alone.

Utterly wretched

Leeds Leads Against Antisemitism, which organised the demonstration, said in a statement: We were in Leeds campaigning against the vast amounts of anti-Semitism our community faces, and someone comes along and proves our point.

A spokesman for the Campaign Against Antisemitism said the pro-Palestine activists were utterly wretched.

It is utterly wretched but revealing that these Palestine activists call people holding a vigil for innocent hostages satanic, and calling for them to die, the spokesman said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Our lawyers are examining this rhetoric. Why are people like this free to spout this bile and chant genocidal slogans on our streets week after week? What have we become as a country?

In a statement, West Yorkshire Police said: Police attended a protest in support of Israel in Leeds city centre on Tuesday afternoon.

Two pro-Palestine supporters were spoken to regarding actions which were considered to be potentially provocative.

A public order offence has also been recorded in relation to comments made at this event.

Rates of anti-Semitism have soared in Britain since the October 7 terror attacks by Hamas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The number of anti-Semitic hate crimes more than doubled  from 1,543 to 3,282  in the year to March 2024, a 113 per cent increase and the highest on record.

More than eight in 10 of the hate crimes were committed after the October 7 attack, rising from 95 recorded by police in September to 577 in October alone.

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.
VIENTIANE, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Laos is intensifying surveillance of anthrax following outbreaks in neighboring countries, with authorities closely monitoring livestock in several districts and focusing on animal health and movement to prevent any potential spread.

Lao authorities are closely monitoring livestock farming, particularly in large farm districts, with strict inspections on animals' origins and health before and after slaughter, ensuring immediate disposal of any diseased animals to maintain food safety, the Vientiane Mai newspaper reported on Wednesday.

Quoting Sengphet Chanthasen, head of the livestock and fisheries sector under the Department of Agriculture and Forestry of Lao capital, Lao authorities are stepping up efforts to prevent livestock smuggling from neighboring countries with outbreaks.

There have been no reported cases of anthrax in Laos so far. However, the authorities are implementing strong preventive measures to respond to any possible occurrence of the disease.

Anthrax is an infectious disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, a spore-forming bacterium, which occurs naturally in soil and mainly affects livestock and wild animals.

People can get sick with anthrax if they have contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products. 
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA)  The Champaign City Council swore in five new members Tuesday night, but it was some activity outside the city building drawing some eyes.

There were around 35 people at the city council meeting, and many of those took to the mic during public comment.

Less than a week after protests at the Alma Mater, protests against the war in Gaza happened outside the Champaign City Council meeting on Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

READ MORE: Pro-Palestine student protestors return to Alma Mater at U of I

Its been heartbreaking to see the disrespect city officials show our Palestinian neighbors, said Sara Saboowala, who was one of the organizers and a member of the CU Muslin Action Committee.

We are here to mark the anniversary of one year of community demonstration and petition for the Champaign City Council to take a stand against genocide, Saboowala said. Weve been met with one year of silence and were here to show that the community still stands together in support of Palestinian liberation.

The protest started about a half hour before the meeting began and continued when the council opened the floor for public comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As the people that you all represent, or at least claim to represent, we demand divestment now, said one speaker.

And others who talked came with a different viewpoint.

You can protest in America obviously all you want, but unless youre ready to recognize the right of Israel to exist, theres really no conversation to have,

WCIA reached out to the City of Champaign for comment. They said:

The city council has addressed this many times publicly during their meetings over the last year. We do not have anything further to add.

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.
NEW YORK (AP)  Police officers in helmets streamed into Columbia University Wednesday evening to remove a group of mask-clad protesters who staged a Pro-Palestinian demonstration inside the school's main library.

Videos shared on social media show a long line of NYPD officers entering the library hours after dozens of protesters pushed their way past campus security officers, raced into the building and then hung Palestinian flags and other banners on bookshelves in an ornate reading room. Some protesters also appear to have scrawled Columbia will burn across framed pictures.

Other videos show campus security officers barring another group of protesters from entering the library, with both sides shoving to try and force the other group aside.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Police said at least 80 people had been taken into custody, though it wasn't clear how many came from the demonstration inside the library and how many were outside the building.

Videos shared by a reporter on the scene show more than 30 people being taken away from the library by officers with their hands tied behind their backs. Protesters and other supporters, meanwhile, gather around the metal barriers set up outside the building by police cheering on the detained demonstrators and chanting Free Palestine.

The university's acting president, Claire Shipman, said the protesters who had holed up inside a library reading room were asked repeatedly to show identification and to leave, but they refused. The school then requested the NYPD come in to assist in securing the building and the safety of our community, she said in a statement Wednesday evening.

Shipman said two university public safety officers sustained injuries as protesters forced their way into the building.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These actions are outrageous, she said, adding that the disruption came as students were studying and preparing for final exams.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams, a Democrat, subsequently said officers were entering the campus to remove individuals who are trespassing.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul also denounced the protesters.

Everyone has the right to peacefully protest, the Democrat wrote on X. But violence, vandalism or destruction of property are completely unacceptable.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio wrote on X that they are examining visa status for trespassers and vandals who took over the library.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pro-Hamas thugs are no longer welcome in our great nation, he wrote.

The Trump administration has cracked down on international students and scholars at several American universities who had participated in pro-Palestinian demonstrations or criticized Israel over its military action in Gaza. Columbia University scholar Mahmoud Khalil, for example, is a legal U.S. resident with no criminal record who was detained in March over his participation in pro-Palestinian demonstrations.

Wednesday's demonstration and the effort to break it up came the same evening that the U.S. Justice Department announced it had brought hate-crime charges against a man who had been repeatedly arrested at pro-Palestinian demonstrations over the past year, including one held near Columbia. An indictment charged Tarek Bazrouk, 20, with assaulting Jewish people at the demonstrations.

Columbia University in March announced sweeping policy changes related to protests following Trump administration threats to revoke its federal funding.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Among them are a ban on students wearing masks to conceal their identities and a rule that those protesting on campus must present their identification when asked. The school also said it had hired new public safety officers empowered to make arrests on campus.

Columbia University Apartheid Divest, a pro-Palestinian student group, said it had occupied part of Butler Library because it believed the university profited from imperialist violence.

Repression breeds resistance  if Columbia escalates repression, the people will continue to escalate disruptions on this campus," the group wrote online.

The federal charges against Bazrouk say he kicked a person in the stomach at a protest near the New York Stock Exchange, stole an Israeli flag and punched someone in the face at a demonstration near Columbia, and punched someone wearing an Israeli flag at another Manhattan protest in January.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bazrouk's lawyer, Andrew Dalack, said his attorneys look forward to zealously defending him.

A magistrate judge said Wednesday that Bazrouk could be released on bail, but that ruling is being challenged by prosecutors. A hearing is scheduled before a federal judge on Tuesday.
FEMA workers stationed along a road at a disaster recovery center in Glorieta, following the Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire in 2022. (Photo by Bright Quashie for Source NM)

President Donald Trumps newly released spending proposal identifies more than $600 million to be cut from woke grant programs overseen by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

That budget proposal, which needs Congressional approval, does not specify which programs or grants would be axed but says the cuts would enable FEMA to refocus on sound emergency management. It also says the agency previously focused too much on intersectional distribution of disaster aid, diversity and inclusion efforts and multicultural training.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Budget reduces bloat and waste while encouraging States and communities to build resilience and use their unique local knowledge and ample resources in disaster response, Trump officials wrote in the budget summary about proposed changes at FEMA.

Its too soon to say what that could mean for disaster-prone New Mexico, local emergency management officials said. But they noted that the state has relied on hundreds of millions of federal dollars for a variety of programs in recent years, even excluding the roughly $5.5 billion FEMA oversees in a special compensation fund for the Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire.

If you were to tell me tomorrow that the federal government were going to turn off the spigot, I would tell you that we will do everything we possibly can in our power and the governors power to take care of the citizens of New Mexico, but we as a state would struggle, New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management Deputy Secretary Ali Rye told Source, noting that the state doesnt exactly have ample resources for disaster response.

DHSEMs budget is a little more than $5 million and funds a core staff of just two people to handle disaster response. Apart from that, the agency relies almost entirely on federal grants, primarily through FEMA, Rye said, for personnel and programs. The Legislature approved funding for five more positions this session in various capacities, Rye said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A FEMA formula, based on the states population, calculates that New Mexico can withstand about $4 million in damage from a natural disaster before a federal disaster declaration would be necessary here.

Once that threshold is reached, state officials apply to FEMA for a Presidential Disaster Declaration, which allows the agency to show up in the state and offer a suite of federally funded programs, such as individual assistance for families affected and reimbursement of 75% of costs incurred by local governments and other public entities.

FEMA has allocated a little more than $1 billion for public entities following recent fires and floods here, according to numbers DHSEM spokesperson Danielle Silva provided, along with hundreds of millions in assistance for individuals.

Breakdown of federal disaster grants to New Mexico*:

FEMA Disaster Case Management

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

$25 million ($12M for Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire, $9M for South Fork/Salt Fires, $4M for Roswell-area flooding)

This program provides daily communications and program application advocacy and support for more than more than 2,000 NM households affected by disasters, including nearly 1,000 in Mora and San Miguel, Counties, more than 900 in Lincoln County and Mescalero Apache Reservation and more than 350 in Chaves County).

FEMA Public Assistance

$1.011 billion across all active disaster declarations

Funding supports 890 projects for state, local and nonprofit entities to cover costs for emergency response measures and infrastructure like buildings, utilities, roads and bridges

FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

$148 million

Funding supports 86 mitigation projects statewide, including purchase of additional generators, hardening of potentially at-risk facilities and efforts to improve future disaster resilience.

HUD Community Development Block Grant  Disaster Recovery

$141 million

NM Impact: Programs to address unmet needs for housing, infrastructure and economic revitalization in communities impacted by the South Fork Fire and Salt Fire, as well as the Chaves Flood event and Building Resiliency Center to serve Mora and San Miguel Counties for the Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire recovery effort.

*According to NM DHSEM spokesperson Danielle Silva

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But whether those thresholds still apply is an open question, Rye said. She noted that Trump denied Republican Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders request for FEMA aid following severe rainstorms and tornadoes that killed at least three people.

They havent been using that formula, Rye said. Right now were all in a gray zone. We dont know where that threshold is, and we wont know until we apply for a federal declaration and we get either approved or denied.

In addition to the uncertainty and threatened cuts, New Mexico already lost $4 million in expected FEMA funds through the agencys Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program, which was among billions in promised aid cut across the country.

While that promised funding aimed at reducing hazard risk hadnt been allocated, a number of worthy recipients applied, Silva said.

We received a lot of project ideas, including improvements to low water crossings on bus routes, enhanced drainage systems, and clean drinking-water plans, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The proposed cuts come as New Mexico continues to deal with the fallout of three major natural disasters in three years, including two that occurred in 2024: the wildfires in New Mexico in 2022, along with the South Fork and Salt Fires in Ruidoso and Roswell-area flooding last year.

The last time the state experienced two federal disaster declarations in the same year was 2014. Excluding the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, the state had a reprieve of nearly a decade without any federal disaster declarations before the 2022 wildfires.

The acting FEMA secretary is scheduled to testify today before the House Appropriations Committee about her plan for FEMA, which the Department of Homeland Security oversees. Sources told E&E news that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem hopes to get rid of all FEMA preparedness programs.

Rye estimated that New Mexico has funding from about 15 preparedness grants currently.

If recent disaster declarations serve as any indication, the state would need $150 million to $200 million to adequately respond to natural disasters, Silva said. FEMA would reimburse most of those costs, but others the state would have to shoulder alone, like setting up emergency operations centers and conducting damage assessments.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

New Mexico pays for those disasters via governors executive orders coming from the states general fund. Those executive orders are capped at $750,000, meaning the governor often has to issue dozens of them at once to cover all the costs.

Already this year, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has issued more than 130 such orders for the South Fork and Salt Fire and Roswell-area flooding, for example.

Despite the threat of funding cuts, Rye and Silva said that, no matter what happens, New Mexicans will be spared the cost of natural disasters.

I would guarantee you right now, the governor will not allow the citizens to struggle, she said, the next time a disaster occurs.
Tarrant County commissioners will consider five maps for redistricting, all of which would benefit Republicans based on recent voting trends.

The maps were drawn by Adam Kincaid, executive director and president of National Republican Redistricting Trust, an organization that coordinates the GOPs 50-state redistricting effort. He was hired by the Public Interest Legal Foundation, the Arlington, Virginia-based firm the county tapped April 2 to redraw its commissioner precinct maps.

Precinct 2 commissioner Alisa Simmons, a Democrat from Arlington, condemned the law firm representative, Joe Nixon, and the contracted map drawer, Adam Kincaid, for intentional racial discrimination, citing the law firms work defending Galveston County when it was accused in 2021 of unconstitutional racial gerrymandering.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Simmons would be at risk of losing her seat in the redistricting  all of the maps break Arlington into three precincts.

Lets be clear: this is a calculated attempt to strip representation from the very communities that I was elected to represent, Simmons said in a statement.

The county will host four public feedback sessions from May 13 to May 21 in Azle, southwest Fort Worth, Arlington and Hurst.

Simmons said the court needs to hear from Kincaid and that he should attend the public feedback sessions. OHare would not answer her question about if it would be possible to bring Kincaid in.

Broderick Miles, a Democrat from Fort Worth, said there should be more feedback sessions, including ones in Spanish and Vietnamese.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We need to make it as accessible and open and transparent to every resident in Tarrant County as we possibly can, and if that means extending the timeline so be it, Miles said. We are not elected to represent just the people that we agree with. We were elected to hear from the people. The people should have an opportunity to let their voices be heard.

Roderick Miles Jr., the Tarrant County Commissioner of Precinct 1, addresses his concern regarding the proposed redistricting of the county during a Commissioners Court Meeting at the Tarrant County Administration Building in Fort Worth on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

The last feedback session takes place two weeks before the commissioners are set to vote on the new map on June 6. Many of the speakers signed up for public comment questioned if the meetings were just a farce.

That doesnt feel to me like a long enough time to consider meaningfully any feedback thats to be obtained during these sessions, Diana Cason said. So are these meaningful sessions for input, or are they dog and pony shows?

PILF under fire from Simmons

The nonprofit Public Interest Legal Foundation focuses on election integrity and fighting voter fraud, according to its website. The firm successfully defended Galveston County in federal litigation over allegations it unconstitutionally used racial gerrymandering in a 2021 commissioners redistricting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Simmons said the firm was chosen by Republican County Judge Tim OHare because of its political history.

PILF is not a traditional law firm, Simmons said in a statement. It is an extreme, ideologically motivated organization with a documented history of undermining voting rights, particularly for communities of color. Their involvement in this process was no accident. It was a deliberate choice by the county judge to bring in a group whose mission is to weaken the power of minority voters.

Lawyer Joe Nixon remains present after addressing the questions regarding the proposed redistricting of the county during a Commissioners Court Meeting at the Tarrant County Administration Building in Fort Worth on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

Simmons asked Nixon, a litigator with the law firm, about his involvement in various cases of alleged unconstitutional racial gerrymandering and if he had ever broken the Voting Rights Act. Nixon denied ever doing so, and explained the court sided with his firm in the Galveston County case.

Ive been practicing law 42 years, Nixon said. I have never once had anyone say anything that you just said to me publicly. I am embarrassed for you.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Nixon said the five maps represent the wants of each of the commissioners. Simmons said the only map that represented hers and Miles wants was the current precinct map.

Redrawn precinct maps

The four commissioners each represent a precinct and the county judge represents the county as a whole.

The proposed maps divide Precinct 4 and Precinct 3 along Interstate 35W. They also each break Arlington into three precincts, when it is now completely in Precinct 2.

According to county election data, Precincts 1 and 2 vote Democratic and Precincts 3 and 4 vote Republican. In the new maps, only Precinct 1 has voted Democratic in the presidential and midterm elections going back to 2016.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Democrats have consistently held Miles Precinct 1 seat. Republicans represented Precinct 2 for 34 years until Democrat Devan Allen took the seat in 2019. Simmons won the seat in the 2022 election.

The 26 people who spoke during public comment opposed the proposed maps and said they prefer the current one. One speaker condemned the commissioners court for the lack of representation in the proposed maps.

Arlington resident Jackee Cox speaks during the public comment portion during a Commissioners Court Meeting at the Tarrant County Administration Building in Fort Worth on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

I really would like map drawers, people with the expertise to draw maps that will come out to be fair to everyone, because this county is not 100% Republican, Jackee Cox, a retired civil rights attorney, said. If you draw lines to give us only Republican representation, those people who need mental health services and public health services and JPS services and road services and all kinds of services will be not only underrepresented, but will be unrepresented.

Simmons told the Star-Telegram that she and Miles will determine whether to sue the county for pursuing a redistricting process that is an attack on voters based on the color of their skin and the electoral decisions they make as minority citizens.
Protesters who climb on Winston Churchills statue in London could face up to three months in jail.

Under new laws, desecrating the bronze sculpture of Britains wartime leader could also land offenders with a fine of up to 1,000.

Despite not being classified as one of the UKs war memorials, new plans will see the 12ft figure protected by the Crime and Policing Bill.

Sir Keir Starmer said: Sir Winston Churchill stands at the summit of our countrys greatest heroes, and has been an inspiration to every prime minister that has followed him.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The justifiable fury that is provoked when people use his statue as a platform for their protests speaks to the deep and enduring love that all decent British people have for Sir Winston.

It is the least we owe him, and the rest of the greatest generation, to make those acts criminal.

The 12ft figure will be protected by the Crime and Policing Bill, despite not counting as a war memorial - Anadolu

Standing in Parliament Square at the location he supposedly picked, the statue was unveiled by Clementine, his widow, at a ceremony in 1973.

It will now join the Cenotaph in Whitehall, the Royal Artillery Memorial in Hyde Park and many other famous structures across Britain, in having protected status in a move made to commemorate the Armed Forces in the First and Second World Wars.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, said of the decision: As the country comes together to celebrate VE Day, it is only right that we ensure Winston Churchills statue is treated with the respect and reverence it deserves, along with the other sacred war memorials around our country.

Churchills statue has been a regular target for demonstrators in recent years.

During Black Lives Matter protests in 2020, protestors sprayed the statue with graffiti, crossing out his name and writing was a racist on the plinth.

In October last year, his statue was protected by a ring of steel barriers as far-Right demonstrators clashed with an anti-fascist counter-protest.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trans rights activists climbed on it last month while waving placards and flags from its plinth in protest against the Supreme Courts ruling on the legal definition of a woman.

Churchills legacy has been revised in recent years, with some academics and activists arguing that he was a racist imperialist who was responsible for the Bengal famine.

It was reported drawings, prints and photographs of the Second World War leader had been removed from Parliament in February, following the arrival of new MPs in Westminster.

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.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI)  Dozens of Providence residents and business owners testified before city leaders about why they supported or opposed Mayor Brett Smileys proposed $624 million budget for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins on July 1.

The Providence City Councils Committee on Finance hosted its first of two public hearings on the proposed budget on Tuesday evening. The second public hearing will be held on June 9.

For the first time in the budget process, a Spanish interpreter was also on hand to assist residents at the public hearing, according to Councilwoman Helen Anthony. Ultimately, the interpreter was not utilized at the microphone, as all testimony was given in English.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Nearly 50 people spoke on Tuesday night, and a City Council spokesperson said nearly 60 pieces of written testimony had also been received.

On April 16, Smiley proposed increasing property tax bills, making about $9 million in cuts, and boosting various city fines. The mayor said the city is facing a significant shortfall as result of last years $15 million settlement with the R.I. Department of Education, which has had control of the Providences schools since 2019 and demanded more K-12 funding.

RELATED: Smileys $624M budget proposal raises property taxes, makes cuts

This proposed budget minimizes the financial impact on taxpayers and avoids drastic cuts to the city services our neighbors rely on, Smiley said in a statement on Tuesday night. By introducing new revenue sources, eliminating staffing positions and significantly reducing expenses in nearly every department, we were able to lower the tax increase we feared was necessary.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

City officials have estimated the proposed changes to fines and fees could bring in $1.9 million in additional revenue  both administrative and by ordinance  largely generated by the police department.

For example, a ticket for parking at an expired meter would rise from $25 to $40, while tickets for parking during a city emergency, like a snowstorm, would increase from $100 to $250.

MORE: Smiley seeks to raise fines for parking, pet violations

Resident Francis Gomez urged city leaders to make sure city ordinances are being enforced properly across the city, not just in some areas.

We can make a lot more money if we pay more attention by enforcing parking violations, not just in downtown, not just in the East Side of Providence, Gomez said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Smiley has previously said that operating and supply expenses were reduced in nearly every department, for a savings of $4.2 million. The city also removed 23 staffing positions, most of which were vacant, saving the city about $1 million.

Two of those 23 positions  a sustainability policy associate in the citys Department of Sustainability, as well as the director of arts, teaching and learning in the Department of Art, Culture and Tourism (ACT)  have been proposed to be laid off in the upcoming fiscal year.

SEE ALSO: Providence police academy slated to get underway in June

Several residents spoke out against cuts to the sustainability department. Leaders from that department will go before the finance committee next week.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I just urge us to look at the larger department and think about if we have to make cuts, its really unfortunate, but to do it in the departments that might be able to absorb that, resident Caitlin Sanford said.

Carla Doughty, of Zero Waste Providence, said losing one position in the department would have rippling effects on the initiatives, projects, and organizations that work in support of shared citywide climate and economic resilience goals.

A number of residents also spoke out against the tax hikes on Tuesday.

ALSO READ: Providence Fire Department cuts millions in overtime costs

The budget that is currently before the City Council is assuming that the bill before the State House to raise the limit on the revenue that Providence gets from taxes will pass. I think the city needs to explore other revenue sources that dont impose higher taxes, resident Francis Gallo said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Resident Aimee Salazar said she felt renters would suffer the most under Smileys proposed tax hike.

Landlords are going to push that onto us, Salazar said. We are already being priced out as it is because of the price of housing, so further adding that tax rate to the 2-5 units would really hurt us.

MORE: How to calculate 2025 property taxes in Providence

I understand the budget is the budget. But I want you to understand what you are asking the individual property owners to bear, resident John Sherman added. Look where you can save additional money, because it cant be on the backs of the small multi-unit property owners.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Seth Zarin, a landlord in Providence, said he supported the budget and acknowledged he would also be paying higher taxes.

My tenants will have a rent increase, but it wont be all the full value of the tax increase and were going to try and make it work for everybody. It is challenging, Zarin said.

Rep. Enrique Sanchez, a Providence Democrat, spoke in opposition of the proposed budget on Tuesday. He told councilors to push for renegotiating payment-in-lieu-of-taxes (PILOT) agreements with private universities and hospitals.

Fast forward to where we are now, all these decision making policies in the past have led to what were dealing with now, with business owners, with homeowners having to deal with the burden of paying property taxes, Sanchez said. The last few years, we could have generated so much revenue.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Smiley said that, while the budget helps to make up for a generation of underfunding to Providence schools, he felt the budget makes thoughtful responsible cuts while also continuing to invest in local organizations that provide critical resources and services to our community.

I am looking forward to collaborating with the City Council to pass this budget, Smiley added.

RELATED: Providence taxpayers confront Mayor Smiley at State House tax levy hearing

Smiley was not obligated to be at Tuesday nights public hearing. Smiley spokesperson Anthony Vega said to date, Smiley has participated in over a dozen community meetings since his administration introduced the concept of increasing the tax levy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The mayor said the budget does assume that the levy, or the total amount of collected tax revenue, increases by 7.5%  nearly double the usual 4% cap mandated by the state. Breaching the gap needs authorization from the General Assembly,

The House Municipal Government and Housing Committee held the bill for further study last month, and a new hearing date has not yet been scheduled.

The City Council needs to pass the budget twice before sending it to the mayors desk for his signature ahead of the start of the new fiscal year.

Alexandra Leslie (aleslie@wpri.com) is a Target 12 investigative reporter covering Providence and more for 12 News. Connect with her on Twitter and on Facebook.

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.

Follow us on social media:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

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.
Public Defender Board meeting set

ANDERSON  The Madison County Public Defender Board will meet Thursday, May 8, at 4 p.m. in Hearing Room C at the Government Center.

The Board will discuss and approve the 1st Quarter Report.
BRYAN, Texas (FOX 44)  Hundreds of Brazos Valley residents attended a public meeting Tuesday to voice concerns over the proposed Inner Loop East roadway project, with many expressing strong opposition to potential changes in their community.

The meeting, hosted by the Inner Loop East Study Team at Legends Event Center in Bryan, was the second in a series of public engagements meant to inform the community and gather input. Attendees were invited to review updated maps, traffic modeling, and refined alignment concepts  but for many, the meeting only deepened their concerns.

Many residents arrived wearing buttons that read No Loop East, signaling opposition to a project they say could displace homes, alter rural landscapes, and negatively impact their way of life.

Theyre going to want to build more roads 20 years from now and before, you know, 50 years from now, you know, the Aggie land is basically like the Woodlands or Round Rock, said Brazos County resident Michael Daniel. What makes Aggie land, Aggie land, which is farms and ranches and dairies and oil fields and. Yeah, and I just dont think that the average person living in Aggie land really wants that.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Officials say the study is being conducted in response to anticipated population growth and development in Brazos County. The goal, they say, is to identify and preserve a potential corridor for a future roadway that would relieve congestion and improve travel times across the region.

Without proper transportation, our congestion will just continue to increase, said Jacqie Wilson, a communications consultant with the project. We will have less reliable travel times, and itll just be a lot more difficult for us to get from places that we work, play, and live.

Wilson said the meeting aimed to offer a deeper understanding of the study and allow residents to share their concerns directly with the study team. A third meeting is planned for the future, though a date has not yet been announced. Members of the Inner Loop East team assisted attendees during the meetings by answering questions and showing them how the project could impact where they reside.

According to the Office of the Brazos County Judge, more than 600 people attended the first public meeting in November 2024, which generated over 1,300 comments. Based on that feedback and additional environmental studies, the study area has been revised to reduce potential impacts to existing homes and property.

The study team emphasized that no construction is currently scheduled, and the process remains in its planning and evaluation phase. Residents can continue to provide feedback through the Brazos County website, where updated materials from Tuesdays meeting will also be made available.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 KWKT - FOX 44.
The Nanjing Anti-Japanese Aviation Martyrs Memorial Hall releases the updated information of the first group of 18 former Soviet Union airmen who sacrificed their lives to assist China in resisting Japanese aggression during World War II, in Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province, May 7, 2025. According to the Memorial Hall, the updates correct inaccurate information and also add new details about the former Soviet Union heroes, including name spellings, birth and death dates, and military ranks and positions. (Photo by Huang Yudong/Xinhua)

NANJING, May 7 (Xinhua) -- A memorial hall in China on Wednesday said it has updated the information of the first group of 18 former Soviet Union airmen who sacrificed their lives to assist China in resisting Japanese aggression during World War II.

According to the Nanjing Anti-Japanese Aviation Martyrs Memorial Hall, the updates correct inaccurate information and also add new details about the former Soviet Union heroes, including name spellings, birth and death dates, and military ranks and positions. 
PLYMOUTH, Vt. (ABC22/FOX44)  Vermonts Agency of Transportation is welcoming the public to a meeting regarding upcoming bridge projects in Plymouth on Vermont routes 100 and 100A.

The Agency of Transportation aims to work on about four bridges. Three bridges will be repaired or replaced on VT-100, which will require detours and closures. One bridge, specifically Bridge No. 9 over Pinney Hollow Brook is set to be replaced on VT-100A.

Those interested in attending can go to the Municipal Building Meeting Room at Plymouth Town Hall. The meeting starts at 6:00 p.m.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Additional information on how to join virtually 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 ABC22 & FOX44.
(PUEBLO, Colo.)  A petition to recall Pueblo Mayor Heather Graham has fallen short of the needed signatures.

According to the organizers behind the recall effort, 3,046 signatures were gathered of the 6,300 needed to submit their petition.

We may not have reached our goal, but dont worry, we still think this was tremendously successful for the community, the recall effort said in a social media post.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Petition to recall Pueblo Mayor Heather Graham submitted

The petition was introduced in March, with those backing the recall arguing that Mayor Graham was unfit for the Office of the Mayor due to numerous failures and omissions on the Mayors part.

The petition alleged numerous failures and omissions on the Mayors part, including stripping funding from nonprofits, retaliation against opposition using police and fire department staff, and allowing illegal ordinances to be proposed, causing costly legal consequences for the city. The petition also claimed Graham spent extensive time on social media during council meetings.

Mayor Graham issued a statement in response to the recall:

From the very beginning of this recall election petition effort, I have repeatedly told the public that I believe this effort is laughable. The 11 accusations outlined on the petition do not even include issues that are directly linked to the responsibility of the Mayor. Then as the 60 days to gather signatures has continued, we have seen the petitioners falsely coerce people to sign to stop the Graham Grocery Tax, which isnt even a real ballot initiative or tax in effect. What these petitioners fail to realize is how municipal government even operates in the first placelet alone my role as Mayor. Criticism is welcome and I fully understand that I will not make all citizens happy, however I have continued to make good on my campaign promises which include addressing crime and making this community safer, beautifying Pueblo and increasing economic development. At 15 months into my term, I can confidently say I am still fully committed to these three principles. I believe our community will thrive as a result of the hard work of our employees, commitment to our citizens and our improvement that will be seen for years to come. I remain committed as the Mayor of Pueblo no matter the circumstances, a recall attempt will not affect my focus on the citizens and the future of Pueblo. Pueblo Mayor Heather Graham

Organizers behind the petition said even though they did not gather the needed signatures, another attempt can always be made in the future.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
By Gwladys Fouche

OSLO (Reuters) -Opposition efforts to allow Norway's $1.8 trillion wealth fund, the world's largest, to invest in large defence companies appear to be faltering, according to lawmakers involved in the process.

The fund follows ethical rules decided by parliament that prevent it from buying stakes in the likes of Airbus, Boeing, BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin on the grounds they make components for nuclear weapons.

Two opposition parties, the Conservatives and the Progress Party, have in recent months called on lawmakers to change the fund's guidelines on that point, coming at a time when European countries are ramping up military investment.

Support for change also came from the head of the central bank, which operates the fund, who said in February Norway "must be open to the possibility that what is considered to be ethically acceptable may change as the world again becomes marked by military rearmament and growing tensions between countries".

The Conservatives say it is no longer reasonable to exclude companies that make equipment critical to Norway and its allies' battle power.

The fund can invest in defence companies if they are not involved in the production of nuclear weapons and is therefore invested in the likes of Rheinmetall or Leonardo. But the guidelines prevent the fund from investing in several major defence companies.

Progress, meanwhile, is presenting a private member's bill, which argues it is hypocritical of Oslo to ban its fund from buying shares in Lockheed Martin while buying 52 F-35 fighter jets from the U.S. defence contractor at the same time.

"This is to make capital available to the defence industry, which is especially necessary now," one of the co-authors of the bill, Hans Andreas Limi, told Reuters.

They would require support from other parties to overturn the will of the minority Labour government and allow one of the world's largest investors to allot billions of dollars to defence companies.

This could in turn encourage other investors sceptical of the defence industry to reconsider their views, given the fund has long been a leading voice on matters of ethical investing.

LACK OF SUPPORT

But supporters of the change appear to be facing an uphill battle.

Among those opposing the change, is the finance ministry, led by no other than former NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg of the Labour Party.

"We believe it is too early for another full review of the guidelines now," Deputy Finance Minister Ellen Reitan told Reuters. She said there had to be a broad consensus in parliament and reviews of the fund's ethical criteria should not be made on an ad hoc basis.
Before Tesla CEO Elon Musk was overseeing cuts and layoffs across the federal government, a European warlord allied with Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Musk of shutting down his machine-gun-mounted Cybertruck.

Back on Aug. 17, four days after Musk endorsed then-former President Donald Trump following an assassination attempt, Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov showed off the gun-mounted truck in a video shared on the social media platform Telegram, dubbed the Cyberbeast.

We received a Tesla Cybertruck from the respected Elon Musk, Kadyrov wrote. ...I was happy to test the new technology and personally saw that it is not by chance that it is called the Cyberbeast. A real invulnerable and fast animal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The video shows Kadyrov driving the truck and at one point wearing a black hood and an ammo belt while standing behind the mounted gun. Kadyrov added in the post that the truck would be used by Chechen soldiers fighting for Russia in its war against Ukraine.

Responding to a journalist professor who shared the video on X, Musk used an ableist slur and denied giving a Cybertruck as a gift to the warlord.

Yet another example of how much the legacy media lies, Musk added in a second post.

But a month later, on Sept. 19, Kadyrov wrote on Telegram that Musk behaved badly and remotely disabled the truck.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thats not manly, Kadyrov wrote. How could you do that, Elon?

In the several months since, Musk has kept his attention on international politics, supporting Germanys far-right AfD party and cheerleading DOGEs efforts in making cuts within the United States government.

But his cuts and proposals have drawn the ire of many Americans, including former federal workers who supported Trumps comeback.

As well, Tesla has faced uncertainty in connection with its CEO, as sales and profits drop while Americans protest outside Tesla showrooms and cars and trucks have been vandalized, CNN reported. Despite this, Musk said the companys future is brighter than ever, and defended DOGE.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I think the right thing to do is fight the waste and fraud and try to get the country back on the right track, Musk told investors in April. If the ship of America goes down, Tesla will go with it.

Musks time at DOGE is expected to end in late May, due to his limited role as a special government employee, Politico reported in early April. He said he wanted to spend time focusing more on Tesla.

More local crime stories

Read the original article on MassLive.
Kyiv accused Moscow of breaching its own ceasefire on Thursday, saying Russian forces struck hundreds of times along the front lines and launched guided bombs that killed and wounded civilians in several Ukrainian cities.

The three-day ceasefire scheduled around the anniversary of Russias World War II Victory Day on Friday was unilaterally declared by Russian President Vladimir Putin last month. It was meant to come into effect at midnight local time (5 p.m. ET) on Wednesday.

A statement from the Kremlin last month said Putin ordered all military actions in Ukraine to be suspended from midnight May 8 to midnight May 11 based on humanitarian considerations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Russian state news agency Tass reported the ceasefire started as scheduled  yet the fighting appeared to have continued, according to Ukraines Air Force.

Russia launched guided bombs over Sumy in northeastern Ukraine and Mykolaiv in southern Ukraine, the military and local authorities said in a post on Telegram.

A 55-year-old woman was killed and her son was wounded in the Sumy region early Thursday morning, according to the Prosecutors Office in the Sumy region. About half an hour later, a 70-year-old woman was wounded when another bomb landed in the Vorozhba area, the local prosecutor said.

The head of the Kherson regional military administration said a 35-year-old woman was killed Thursday as a result of a Russian drone strike on one of the villages on the region. He also reported several drones in the area.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

CNN has not independently verified these claims.

Ukraines Air Force said there had been no Russian missile or drone attacks in its airspace on Thursday morning.

Viktor Tregubov, the spokesperson for the Ukrainian militarys Khortytsia operational and strategic grouping, said Russian troops were less active Thursday morning.

In some areas, there were no clashes in the morning, but there were active hostilities in a number of other (areas), so we cannot talk about a ceasefire, he said, adding Russian troops had launched assault operations near Lyman, Vovchansk, Kramatorsk, Chasiv Yar, Toretks and Pokrovsk since it was supposed to begin at midnight.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Russia also accused Ukraine of violating the ceasefire, even though Kyiv rejected the short-term truce when it was first announced.

The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed in a statement its troops ceased all hostilities and accused Ukraine of continuing to strike. It said Russia would mirror Ukraines actions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called Putins announcement a theatrical performance and reiterated his countrys support for an earlier US proposal for a 30-day ceasefire, which Russia has rejected.

The three-day period Putin picked for the ceasefire coincides with Russias World War II Victory Day commemorations, including a traditional military parade, set for Friday, May 9.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The high-profile event is expected to be attended by the leaders of several countries that are friendly with Russia, including Chinas Xi Jinping.

As in previous years, it is expected to be used by Putin and his government to peddle propaganda, which falsely frames Moscows current aggression against Ukraine as a fight against a Nazi regime in Kyiv.

Ukraine was part of the Soviet Union during WWII, but it celebrates its Victory Day on May 8, having moved the holiday from May 9 after the Russian invasion to align itself with Europe.

In a speech commemorating the anniversary Thursday, Zelensky said Russias celebrations on Friday would be a parade of cynicism.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The atrocities of the Nazis will be brought up by the organizer of mass (killings) in Bucha. And those who orchestrated the blockade of Mariupol will be the ones talking about the siege of Leningrad, he said.

Thank God Ukraine has broken free from all of this. Thank God Ukraine has not forgotten that 80 years ago, dozens of peoples fought against Nazism. And more than 8 million Ukrainians, sadly, died in that struggle, he added.

Ukrainian drones shut Moscow airports

As Russia prepared to mark the anniversary of the end of WWII, Ukrainian drones attacked Moscow for the second consecutive night overnight into Wednesday.

The attacks forced Russian authorities to temporarily halt air traffic at 13 airports Wednesday  four in Moscow and nine further afield.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

More drones were flying Wednesday, with Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin saying one drone that was heading to Moscow was shot down Wednesday afternoon.

The shutting down of airports was potentially embarrassing for Moscow, as delegations from countries that have remained friendly to Russia were flying in to attend the parade Friday.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Vietnamese President To Lam and Belarussian leader Alexander Lukashenko are among the 29 leaders on the guest list, according to Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov.

Ukraine has previously said it cannot be responsible for what happens on the territory of the Russian Federation because of the war.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Zelensky said his country would not be playing games to create a pleasant atmosphere to allow for Putins exit from isolation on May 9.

While Russia has rejected the US ceasefire proposal, the unilateral ceasefire around the Victory Day celebration was the second short-term truce Putin announced in less than a month.

In a surprise move over Easter, the Russian leader announced he instructed his troops to stop all military activity for some 30 hours. Ukraine accused Russia of breaching the truce, although it did say fighting had slowed along some parts of the front lines.

CNNs Svitlana Vlasova, Darya Tarasova and Lex Harvey contributed reporting.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Waving their national flag and chanting a patriotic anthem of wartime hardship, Chinas Guard of Honour marched through Red Square in Moscow last week.

The specialised unit within the Peoples Liberation Army was rehearsing for Russias Victory Day parade, which will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War and is anticipated to be its grandest yet.

In a show of deepening ties, Xi Jinping - who was greeted by Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin in Moscow on Thursday, will be in the front row of spectators with the Russian leader as the events most high-profile guest.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While the two have met more than 40 times as leaders of China and Russia, standing side-by-side on such an important day will be highly symbolic.

Credit: Reuters

Its a reaffirmation of the increasingly close ties between the two countries in the face of their mutual enemy  the West, said Pierre Andrieu, a former diplomat in Russia. Its a very powerful and explicit message.

The parade on Friday will come at the end of three days of strategic talks behind closed doors in the Kremlin.

Putin is believed to have a list of requests for Mr Xi. However, Beijing still has its red lines.

Putins demands

The Kremlin said the talks would be focused on the further advancement of Russia-China relations of comprehensive partnership and strategic co-operation and the two leaders would sign a number of bilateral inter-governmental and inter-departmental documents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The war in Ukraine will undoubtedly be on the agenda and experts believe Putin will want to talk about Chinas role as a potential peacekeeper in the event of a ceasefire.

Putin and his deputies have firmly rejected any Europe-led mission in Ukraine  with Alexander Grushko, Russias deputy foreign minister, calling the idea absolutely inappropriate and absurd  but Chinese involvement could be much more palatable.

Members of the Russia and Chinese delegations watch on as Vladimir Putin welcomes Xi Jinping at the Kremlin, May 8 - AFP

The Chinese would be more sympathetic to the Russian position. If French and British troops were there, from Russias point of view, it would just be Nato in Ukraine, which is exactly what they dont want, said Richard Weitz, director at the Center for Political-Military Analysis at the Hudson Institute in the US.

Huiyao Wang, the founder and president of the Centre for China and Globalisation, one of Chinas leading think tanks, said he believed China would want to participate in a peacekeeping mission to show that it promotes peace.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Beijing has denied that it is considering such a prospect.

However, Chinese support for Russia in the war is well documented, from exporting drones and weapons technology to helping it evade sanctions. Ukraine has also accused Beijing of turning a blind eye to Chinese nationals signing up to fight for Russia.

Beyond the war, Moscow is also likely to be seeking economic support from Beijing in its energy sector as it continues to look to China to make up for its losses in the European market caused by sanctions.

A Chinese honour guard rehearsed in central Moscow on Tuesday - Yao Dawei/Xinhua

The proposed Power of Siberia 2 pipeline, which would take Russian natural gas to China via Mongolia, is likely to be on the agenda again, as the two countries attempt to reach an agreement over cost.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

China has refused to pay any more than the Russian domestic rate for the gas, roughly a quarter of what it pays via existing supply lines. Moscow has rejected this, leading to a standstill.

China and Russia share a mutually beneficial relationship, but experts say the current balance of power tilts in Beijings favour.

Matthew Sussex, an expert in Russian and Chinese strategic policy, said that Putin is both an asset and a liability for China, which resists formal involvement in a war thousands of miles away, where it has no territorial claims.

Mr Xi is likely to have come to Moscow with his own agenda  at the top, how to navigate the trade war with the US and how to handle Trump.

A tank rehearsing for the 80th anniversary Victory Day parade - Alexander Zemlianichenko Jr/Xinhua

Trump has claimed that he has a very close relationship with the Russian president, with experts referring to his affinity for Putin as autocrat envy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This relationship has prompted speculation about a reverse Nixon scenario, where Moscow and Washington forge a close alliance and isolate Beijing, though experts believe this to be unlikely.

Mr Xis very presence at the Victory Day parade suggests the tactic is not at play.

However, Mr Xi may still be able to capitalise on Putins ability to get through to Trump ahead of his own dealings with the US president. Washington and Beijing announced that they would start trade talks later this week.

Mr Weitz said Beijing could draw lessons from Russias experience with Washington in terms of what works with the new American team and what doesnt.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mr Xi is also likely to raise his concerns around Russias deepening ties with North Korea, a point of contention.

Moscow and Pyongyang signed a defence treaty last year, which has already resulted in North Korean troops fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine.

North Korea has long been viewed as Chinas little brother, so a switch of allegiance to Moscow would be a blow to Beijing, both politically and militarily.

China is concerned by the opaque nature of Russia-DPRK [North Korean] military cooperation because if it does end up helping the North Koreans modernise their military, then that enables them to do all sorts of things, Mr Sussex said.

What next?

Chinese troops in Red Square offer a convenient symbol of how the world has changed since the war in Ukraine.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is more striking still when contrasted with Britains own VE Day celebrations on Monday, when Ukrainian troops marched down the Mall as Sir Keir Starmer and members of the Royal family looked on.

Moscows upcoming celebrations and its chosen guest of honour are a prime portrayal of the face of the new world order in which China and Russia are at the top, said Mr Sussex.

Putin thinks the West is done and wants to break the old order, and Xi wants to supplant the West and the old order, he said.

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.
Presidents Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping will discuss a long-delayed gas pipeline linking Russia and China when they meet in Moscow this week for Russia's Victory Day celebrations, Bloomberg reported on May 7.

Construction of the pipeline, referred to as Power of Siberia 2, was scheduled to begin in 2024, but has been plagued with construction issues and diplomatic tussles.

The proposed pipeline would strengthen Russia's ability to export gas to China, which is increasingly important for Russia as Europe declares its goal to fully sever the European Unions energy dependence on Moscow by 2027.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Power of Siberia 2 pipeline would give Moscow the ability to export 50 billion cubic meters a year, and give China the advantage of cheaper LNG imports.

If completed, the 3,550-kilometer pipeline would connect Russia's Yamal Peninsula through Mongolia to China.

But in January 2024, Mongolian Prime Minister Luvsannamsrain Oyun-Erdene said Russia and China had not agreed on key details and that construction would be delayed.

In June it was reported that talks between Russia and China had reached a dead end as Beijing sought to exhort tough conditions on price and supply levels.

According to Bloomberg, the economic strains being felt currently by both countries may be forcing them to settle their differences and move the project forward.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Xi is one of 29 world leaders set to attend the Victory Day parade on May 7, according to the Kremlin, which added he would be there to "sign a number of bilateral inter-governmental and inter-departmental documents" to strengthen Chinese-Russian relations.

Read also: Ukraine ramps up drone strikes on Moscow as Russian-friendly leaders set to attend Victory Day parade

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The News

Saudi Arabia and the UAE have already made massive pledges to invest in the US prior to President Donald Trumps Gulf visit next week  and now Qatar is stepping up. The gas-rich country is planning to order around 100 Boeing widebody planes, Bloomberg reported, after the White House made clear it would like similar commitments from Qatar as other Gulf states.

Trump has asked Saudi Arabia to commit $1 trillion to the US, but the kingdom has so far offered $600 billion in trade and investment over the next four years. The UAE plans to invest $1.4 trillion in the US in the next decade. Including the proposed Boeing deals  other regional carriers are also considering buying American planes  as well as weapons purchases and other investments in technology, energy, and infrastructure, Trumps haul on this trip will dwarf the $400 billion in deals Saudi signed during Trumps visit in 2017.

Separately, Trump plans to announce that the US will officially refer to the Persian Gulf as the Gulf of Arabia, The Associated Press reports, a move that will please Arabs and antagonize Iranians.
TEHRAN, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said on Wednesday the definite date and venue of the fourth round of the indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the United States have not been determined yet.

He made the remarks while responding to a question by the official news agency IRNA regarding the timing and location of the next round of Omani-mediated negotiations on Tehran's nuclear program and the removal of Washington's sanctions.

Baghaei said Oman would announce the date and venue for the next round once confirmed, noting that Oman had proposed holding the talks in the coming days, a suggestion currently "under review."

Quoting an informed official, Nour News, affiliated with Iran's Supreme National Security Council, said the fourth round of Iran-U.S. talks would be held in the Omani capital Muscat on Sunday.

The upcoming negotiations would focus on humanitarian issues and certain security concerns of both countries, Nour News said.

The delegations of Iran and the United States have so far held three rounds of talks. The first and third rounds were held in Muscat on April 12 and April 26, and the second one in Rome on April 19.

The fourth round, which was originally scheduled for May 3 in Rome, was postponed due to what Oman described as "logistical reasons." 
Canadian authorities are investigating a Quebec hospital's treatment of a quadriplegic man whose health deteriorated after what his wife called a horrible hospital stay

Normand Meunier visited the emergency room for a respiratory virus and allegedly spent four days on a stretcher, developing a severe bedsore that got infected

Due to the horrible stay, he opted for medical aid in dying rather than returning to the hospital when the injury progressed

A quadriplegic man chose to legally end his life following a horrible emergency room stay that left him with a severe bedsore. Now, Canadian authorities are investigating his death.

Normand Meunier, from Quebec, was working as a truck driver before a spinal cord injury in 2022 left his arms and legs paralyzed. In January 2024, the 66-year-old was admitted to the emergency room at Saint-Jerome Hospital due to a respiratory virus. During that time, his wife Sylvie Brosseau says she requested that, as a quadriplegic, he receive a specialized mattress that shifts pressure points to prevent bedsores.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, she told CBC News that Meunier remained stuck on a stretcher for four days. He ultimately developed a painful sore so severe that the bone and muscle became exposed. The couple were told the sore  a gaping hole a few centimeters in diameter  would take several months to heal.

"It was horrible. He had no buttocks. There was nothing left," Brosseau said. "Each time, we had to ask for the special mattress, which never arrived. It was a constant battle."

"Ninety-five hours on a stretcher, unacceptable," she told Radio-Canada. "Every time we go to the hospital, it's my duty to tell them that Normand is quadriplegic and needs an alternating pressure mattress  I don't understand how this can happen, because a mattress is the most basic thing."

Related: Filmmaker's Parents Choose Medical Aid in Dying, End Their Lives in Emotional Docuseries: Editing 'Was Hell' (Exclusive)

The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now!

CISSS des Laurentides, the local health authority that owns Saint-Jerome Hospital, said in a statement to CBC at the time of Meunier's death that it was taking his case "very seriously and an internal investigation is underway to shed light on the events."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Due to the severity of the bedsore, Meunier had to undergo two debridements, which is the removal of devitalized tissue, according to the National Institute of Health.

Brosseau told CBC that with a long and painful recovery ahead, her husband ultimately decided to choose medical aid in dying (MAID) rather than returning to the hospital. Meunier had the option available to him under Canadas MAID legislation, which went into effect in June 2016. The law allows patients with terminal illnesses to end their lives with lethal medication either taken themselves or administered by a physician or nurse.

"His last two weeksit was horror," Brosseau recalled, telling the outlet that she felt the system was "totally negligent" when it came to his care.

The day before his death, Meunier told Radio-Canada that he preferred putting an end to his physical and psychological suffering. "I don't want to be a burden, he said. At any rate, the medical opinions say I won't be a burden for long; as the old folks say, it's better to kick the can."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Related: A Terminally Ill Man Decided to End His Life. This Is How He Spent His Last Day Alive

CBC News/YouTube Normand Meunier and his wife Sylvie Brosseau before his death Normand Meunier and his wife Sylvie Brosseau before his death

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.

Meunier died on March 29, 2024.

The health authority told the CBC at the time that it had 145 therapeutic mattresses with alternating pressure, but none in emergency rooms.

"An emergency room is not an appropriate place for this type of mattress, because beds aren't used in an emergency room, they're stretchers [and] there isn't really a mattress adapted [to be put on] a stretcher," said Steve Desjardins, director of nursing at CISSS des Laurentides.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"An emergency room is a riskier place for a fragile person. That's why, if necessary, we're going to work actively to give them access to a bed in an inpatient unit."

Now, a public inquiry has been launched by Canadian authorities to investigate Meuniers treatment at the hospital.

Related: Man, 28, Chooses Euthanasia Rather Than Live with Bipolar Disorder, Documents His Last Supper with Thousands of Strangers

While gathered at the Montreal courthouse on May 5, coroner Dave Kimpton  who is presiding over the inquiry  explained that he will hear from nurses, doctors, advocates and Brosseau. Kimpton noted that the goal is not to place blame but to make recommendations to avoid similar situations in the future.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Steven Laperriere, director general of RAPLIQ  an advocacy group that supports people with disabilities  told reporters that Meuniers case is a crying shame.

What are we doing in order to help disabled persons or sick people to live in dignity prior to dying in dignity? To me, that's totally a lack of professionalism," he said, adding that Meunier "would probably still be alive today" if his case were handled differently.



Staff and officials from Saint-Jerome Hospital are expected to testify as the public hearing continues this week. The public inquiry will conclude June 6.



Read the original article on People
QUAPAW, Ok.  Keeping the memories of lost loved ones alive is the focus of an event in northeast Oklahoma.

The Quapaw Nation hosted a Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons Support Walk this morning at its Route 66 Roadside Park in Quapaw. Todays guest speaker, Lorene Bible, the mother of Lauria, who, along with Ashley Freeman were kidnapped, raped and murdered just over 25-years ago. Their bodies have never been found.

This event came a day after what is the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We asked Lorene Bible about the news yesterday of Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt officially signing Lauria and Ashleys law, which, in part, would add accessory to murder in the first or second degree to the list of crimes that would require an offender to serve 85-percent of their prison sentence before being eligible for consideration for parole.

This is our way of letting out their spirits we believe their spirits are out somewhere. Were all connected. Through here. Hes seen to it that were connected this way. So, we know, and we dont forget. We never forget and we never give up, said Minnie Hawk, Quapaw Nation Tribal Elder.

If someone has information, dont take it for granted that law enforcement thats currently working on cases has all the answers. So, if you know something or you hear something, it may be new information. Come forward. It may be something that one thing that could crack the case open and solve, solve the case, said Charles Addington, Quapaw Nation Dept. of Public Safety Exec. Director.

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.
The Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee has publicized the shortlisted designs for her forthcoming memorial

The "new national landmark" is planned for St. James's Park in the heart of London

Prince William may have gotten a peek at the ideas when he met with the committee head at Kensington Palace last week



Queen Elizabeth's incredible legacy will be honored with a national memorial in the U.K., and the shortlisted choices have been unveiled.

On May 7, the Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee and the Cabinet Office revealed the five potential design concepts for the Queen Elizabeth II national memorial via a public online exhibition. The online launch marks a milestone as the government advances its plan to create an enduring tribute to the late Queen, who was the U.K.'s longest-serving sovereign of 70 years when she died in September 2022 at age 96.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The public is uniquely invited to submit feedback on the ideas until Monday, May 19, and this information will be taken to the Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee, which is headed by her former private secretary, Lord Robin Janvrin.

Courtesy of Foster + Partners/Malcolm Reading Consultants The Queen Elizabeth II Memorial design idea by Foster + Partners with Yinka Shonibare and Michel Desvigne Paysagiste. The Queen Elizabeth II Memorial design idea by Foster + Partners with Yinka Shonibare and Michel Desvigne Paysagiste.

Related: Nothing Is Off the Table for Forthcoming Statue Honoring the Reign of Queen Elizabeth  Including Digital Technology

The committee will then make its decision on the winning design early this summer and the design is expected to be shared in 2026, which would have been Queen Elizabeth's 100th year.



The future memorial will be set in St. James's Park in the heart of London, and the shortlisted choices all feature publicly accessible spaces in nature.

Courtesy of J&L Gibbons/Malcolm Reading Consultants The Queen Elizabeth II Memorial design idea by J&L Gibbons with Michael Levine RDI, William Matthews Associates, Structure Workshop and Arup. The Queen Elizabeth II Memorial design idea by J&L Gibbons with Michael Levine RDI, William Matthews Associates, Structure Workshop and Arup.

"The design brief sought concepts for an emotionally powerful place and a space for pause and reflection, which is sensitive to the site within the Grade I listed St Jamess Park," a statement said. "The memorial is envisaged to be a new national landmark of outstanding quality to honour and celebrate Queen Elizabeth IIs unique qualities and values."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The specific stipulations aren't the only criteria, either  the competing designs will also be assessed against value for money, placemaking and visitor experience.

Courtesy of Tom Stuart-Smith/Malcolm Reading Consultants The Queen Elizabeth II Memorial design idea by Tom Stuart-Smith with Jamie Fobert Architects, Adam Lowe (Factum Arte) and Structure Workshop. The Queen Elizabeth II Memorial design idea by Tom Stuart-Smith with Jamie Fobert Architects, Adam Lowe (Factum Arte) and Structure Workshop.

Related: Queen Elizabeth's Life in Photos: See the Most Iconic Moments from Her Historic Reign

All of the vignettes feature paths, bridges or walkways, and one pitch even features a flower-shaped covering  a fitting symbol for Queen Elizabeth, who was the proud patron of the Royal Horticultural Society for 70 years and faithfully attended its flagship Chelsea Flower Show over 50 times.

Courtesy of Heatherwick Studio/Malcolm Reading Consultants The Queen Elizabeth II Memorial design idea by Heatherwick Studio with Halima Cassell, MRG Studio, Webb Yates and Arup. The Queen Elizabeth II Memorial design idea by Heatherwick Studio with Halima Cassell, MRG Studio, Webb Yates and Arup.

That finalist design is by Heatherwick Studio with Halima Cassell, MRG Studio, Webb Yates and Arup, and the other illustrations are from Foster + Partners with Yinka Shonibare and Michel Desvigne Paysagiste, J&L Gibbons with Michael Levine RDI, William Matthews Associates, Structure Workshop and Arup, Tom Stuart-Smith with Jamie Fobert Architects, Adam Lowe (Factum Arte) and Structure Workshop, and WilkinsonEyre with Lisa Vandy and Fiona Clark, Andy Sturgeon Design, Atelier One and Hilson Moran.

Courtesy of WilkinsonEyre/Malcolm Reading Consultants The Queen Elizabeth II Memorial design idea by WilkinsonEyre with Lisa Vandy and Fiona Clark, Andy Sturgeon Design, Atelier One and Hilson Moran. The Queen Elizabeth II Memorial design idea by WilkinsonEyre with Lisa Vandy and Fiona Clark, Andy Sturgeon Design, Atelier One and Hilson Moran.

In another key detail, the new landmark will be complete with a "figurative representation" of the late Queen. The Queen Elizabeth II National Memorial Masterplan Design Competition said that a similar search for a sculptor to work with the winning design team will wrap later this year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to The Court Circular, one royal family member may have gotten a peek at all the plans! The Court Circular is the royal family's official record of past engagements, and a May 1 entry said that Prince William met with Janvrin last week, just a few days before the finalist designs for the Queen Elizabeth II national memorial were publicized.

"The Prince of Wales this afternoon received the Lord Janvrin (Chairman, The Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee) at Windsor Castle," the entry said about the May 1 meeting at Kensington Palace.

Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Queen Elizabeth and Sir Robin Janvrin at the National Tennis Centre in London on March 29, 2007. Queen Elizabeth and Sir Robin Janvrin at the National Tennis Centre in London on March 29, 2007.

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

Janvrin first joined the Royal Household in 1987 and served in the critical role of private secretary to the Queen from 1999 to 2007. In a statement, he said it only made sense for the public to submit feedback about what the memorial should be.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Queen Elizabeth IIs extraordinary life of service profoundly touched countless individuals, and she was a figure of great respect and admiration. Memories of her long reign are still fresh for so many of us and we need to capture the essence of them for future generations," Janvrin said in a statement about the search.

"In recognition of this, it is only fitting that we invite the public to express their views on these design concepts," he continued. "We are delighted to be working with some of the best architects, artists and designers in the world to produce a landmark memorial of outstanding beauty that celebrates and honors the life of Queen Elizabeth II."

Read the original article on People
As a child, I would wake to the scent of rice porridge and the soft hiss of static giving way to a familiar jinglethe theme song of Voice of America. In the kitchen, my grandmother sat beside a battered radio, its bent antenna jutting upward like a crooked finger reaching for the sky. Every morning, with the solemnity of a parishioner at prayer, she tuned in to VOA Khmer and Radio Free Asia. The broadcasts came through in a haunted crackle, their voices urgent, truthful, and distantlike hope being whispered across a border.

That sound is now goneor soon will be.

On March 14, President Donald Trump signed an executive order slashing funding to the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), the parent organization of both Voice of America and Radio Free Asia. The directive forced RFA to furlough hundreds of staff, while VOA braces for crippling cutbacks that threaten the very core of its mission. Though legal challenges are pending, damage is already being done: VOA Khmer has not broadcast since March 18, and VOA Burmese in Myanmar last aired on March 15.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In nations like China, North Korea, Vietnam, Laosand my native Cambodiawhere local journalists are censored, imprisoned, or co-opted, these services became the last honest voices, delivering unfiltered, factual news to the most repressive corners of the world. Their broadcasts reached villagers without internet access, activists who risked everything to circulate truth, and entire generations seeking clarity beyond carefully curated mirages. For many in the diaspora, they were lifelines, windows into a homeland obscured by propaganda.

Even if one concedes that VOA and RFA have shown signs of ideological drift, gutting their funding is not a course correction. It is a demolition.

Following Trumps executive order, the administration published an article on the White House website titled: The Voice of Radical America. It leaned heavily on the testimony of Dan Robinson, a 34-year veteran of VOA and former White House correspondent, who had written the year prior: I have monitored the agencys bureaucracy along with many of its reporters and concluded that it has essentially become a hubris-filled rogue operation often reflecting a leftist bias aligned with partisan national media. It has sought to avoid accountability for violations of journalistic standards and mismanagement.

Trumps criticisms may hold a kernel of truthmedia bias, after all, is not the sole province of any one sidebut the remedy he prescribed is deeply flawed. Even if one concedes that VOA and RFA have shown signs of ideological drift, gutting their funding is not a course correction. It is a demolition.

In the United States, where podcasts flourish, streaming platforms compete for attention, and independent journalism ekes out new ground each day, the information ecosystemthough chaoticis pluralistic. Authoritarian regimes offer no such latitude. There, media is not a marketplace but a mechanism of control. The rare independent voices that persist do so in exile, in secrecy, or in fear.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For millions across Southeast Asia, VOA and RFA were neither progressive nor conservativethey were simply audible. Their role wasnt to echo Washingtons views but to offer another viewa view unsanctioned by the regimes that dominate local airwaves.

Take Cambodia. Since the early 1990s, the country has witnessed the gradual erosion of democratic institutions under Prime Minister Hun Sen, who has ruled since 1985. Subsequent to the fall of the Khmer Rouge and the signing of the 1991 Paris Peace Accords, Cambodia briefly appeared to be on a democratic path. Yet that trajectory was slowly reversed through electoral manipulation, suppression of the political opposition, and increasing control over the domestic media landscape.

In this shrinking civic space, VOA Khmer and RFA Khmer emerged as essential sources of independent journalism. In their earlier years, they depended extensively on partnerships with local affiliatesamong them the Womens Media Centers FM 102, Beehive FM 105, Angkor Ratha FM 95.5, and numerous other stationsto rebroadcast their Khmer-language programs, reaching audiences even in remote provinces with limited internet connectivity. Over time, as technology evolved, they broadened their distribution channels to include shortwave radio, satellite transmissions, and digital platforms such as YouTube and Facebook, ensuring their reporting remained widely accessible across both rural and urban landscapes. During elections, protests, and political crises, Cambodians turned to these outlets for uncensored information: coverage of opposition parties; investigations into corruption, land grabbing, and illegal logging; and interviews with civil society leaders and activists who had been smothered by state-aligned media.

RFA and VOA played a crucial role in informing the electorate during Cambodias 2013 national electionarguably one of the most fiercely contested in recent history. The Cambodian National Rescue Party (CNRP) won 55 of 123 seatsthe closest electoral challenge to Hun Sens Cambodian Peoples Party (CPP) in years. The CPP retained a majority with 68 seats, but suffered its steepest parliamentary losses since 1998a setback many attributed, at least in part, to the heightened public awareness fostered by social media and these foreign broadcasts.

For millions across Southeast Asia, VOA and RFA were neither progressive nor conservativethey were simply audible. Their role wasnt to echo Washingtons views but to offer another viewa view unsanctioned by the regimes that dominate local airwaves.

RFA documented mass protests over alleged electoral fraud, police crackdowns on demonstrators, and the growing unrest among garment workers over wages and labor conditions. In a country where truth had become a casualty of authoritarian consolidation, RFA and VOA offered something rare and increasingly subversive: a glimpse of reality.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By 2017, the CNRP had grown into the most formidable political threat Hun Sen had faced in decades. Fueled by mounting public discontent over systemic corruption, land dispossession, and deepening economic inequality, the CNRP again performed strongly in local commune elections, unnerving the regime and exposing its vulnerabilities. Determined to neutralize the threat ahead of the 2018 national election, Hun Sen initiated a sweeping crackdown: Kem Sokha, the CNRPs president, was arrested on dubious charges of treason, accused of conspiring with the United States to orchestrate regime change. Two months later, a pliant Supreme Court dissolved the CNRP entirely and barred 118 senior party officials from political activity for five years.

This purge extended beyond political figures. The government shuttered RFAs Phnom Penh bureau, revoked VOAs local broadcasting licenses, and targeted journalists affiliated with both organizations. Two former RFA reporters, Uon Chhin and Yeang Sothearin, were arrested on spurious charges of espionagea euphemism for continuing to report independently. More than 30 radio frequencies nationwide were shut down by authorities for airing programming from Voice of America and Radio Free Asia.

RFA Khmers YouTube channel became a digital refuge in exilea vital platform for voices stifled at home. It featured human rights advocates, dissident monks urging nonviolent resistance, and young activists working to bridge the generational and geographic divides between the diaspora and domestic civil society.

Yet, as these platforms clung to life in digital form for years, the very institutions sustaining them were being choked at the source. And in fact, Hun Senwho stepped down in 2023 to make way for his sonpublicly lauded Donald Trump in March for defunding U.S.-backed media outlets.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We should highly appreciate President Donald Trump for his courage to lead the world in combating fake news, Hun Sen posted on Facebook. This is a major contribution to eliminating fake news, disinformation, lies, distortions, incitement, and chaos around the world, coming from the propaganda machine that President Trump has stopped funding.

In authoritarian states, it is not uncommon for tyrants to lash out at the press. What is less commonwhat ought to give us pauseis when a tyrant applauds an American president for doing the same.

What does it say when a despot finds common cause with the leader of the free world?

Indeed, the story is not Cambodias alone.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Across Southeast Asia, a parallel struggle persists in Myanmar, where the fight for democracy has long been waged in part over the airwaves. In the wake of Trumps funding cuts, VOA Burmese was forced to halt operations on March 16, and RFA Burmese announced it would suspend most of its broadcasts amid the escalating financial crisis.

No one received this news more warmly than the generals in the capital of Naypyidaw. A major Myanmar military propaganda account on X posted an image declaring: Myanmar citizens welcome the shutdown of VOA and RFA, ending years of divisive foreign propaganda that fueled unrest and weakened national unity. Ending their influence paves the way for stability, cohesion, and stronger domestic media in Myanmar.

The military regimes animus toward foreign broadcasters stretches back to the previous junta, which ruled from 1988 to 2011, during which time it targeted journalists with rhetorical attacks and denied most foreign journalists entry visas.

Nevertheless, millions in Myanmar tuned in religiously to the Burmese-language services of VOA, RFA, the Democratic Voice of Burma (DVB), BBC, and All India Radio (AIR). In fact, a 2010 report by Reporters Without Borders found that 66.5 percent of respondents listened every day or often to at least one of these international stations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In March 2011, Myanmars military junta formally dissolved, ceding authority to a quasi-civilian government headed by former Gen. Thein Sein. He soon initiated political and economic reforms that included the release of political prisoners and the easing of press censorship. But even during this brief democratic thaw, when local media blossomed, Voice of America Burmese and Radio Free Asia Burmese served as the connective tissue between the diaspora, civil society, and opposition networks.

In November 2015, Myanmar held its first openly contested general election in decades. The National League for Democracy (NLD), led by Aung San Suu Kyi, won a landslide victory and assumed control of the civilian government in March 2016. However, under the 2008 constitution, the military retained substantial power: One-fourth of parliamentary seats were reserved for unelected military officials, and the armed forces continued to control the key ministries of defense, home affairs, and border affairsalong with an effective veto over any constitutional amendments.

It was a fledgling democracy, but it held onfor nearly a decade.

In the 2020 general election, the NLD once again triumphed in a landslide, further marginalizing the militarys proxy, the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP). Military leaders alleged widespread electoral fraud without evidence, and on February 1, 2021, just hours before the newly elected parliament was set to convene, the military staged a coup, detaining Aung San Suu Kyi and other NLD leaders. The regime quickly reignited its war on the free press, ushering in a new era of repression. Dozens of independent outlets, including Myanmar Now and Mizzima, had their licenses revoked and were forcibly shut down. Journalists were arrested, tortured, and in some cases, killed. Internet blackouts became routine. Facebookused by half the populationwas banned.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Yet RFA and VOA did not go dark.

What the Trump administration failed to graspand what many culture warriors immersed in Americas internal skirmishes continue to missis that this is not a culture war. It is a civilizational one.

Consider the case of Aye Aye Mon, a journalist with RFA Burmese. In the wake of the 2021 military coup, she was compelled to flee Myanmarbut she has since returned, at immense personal risk, to bear witness to the ongoing civil war and its toll on Burmese society. Its an honor to provide a voice for those who need it most, she said.

Aye Aye Mon is just one among many correspondents in the network RFA Burmese maintains inside the country, continuing to file dispatches under perilous conditions. Their reporting has exposed the militarys aerial bombings of civilian enclaves, live-fire assaults on peaceful demonstrators, and the rise of the civil disobedience movementa grassroots uprising led by teachers, engineers, health care workers, and students who refuse to serve the regime.

Even as the regime hunted down reporters, broadcasters with VOA Burmese stitched together a fragmented resistance. Their coverage was relayed through community networks, Telegram channels, and ethnic media outlets, often translated into local dialects. Burmese exiles across Thailand, Malaysia, and the United States depended on RFA and VOA to track developments and coordinate advocacy. For ordinary citizens trapped under military rule and facing internet outages, these broadcastsaccessed via shortwave radio or smuggled satellite dishesoffered a fragile but defiant connection to the truth.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To decommission these platforms now is to achieve what the military could not: sever the cords of communication that, for decades, have sustained Myanmars long and unfinished march toward freedom.

What the Trump administration failed to graspand what many culture warriors immersed in Americas internal skirmishes continue to missis that this is not a culture war. It is a civilizational one. The battle is not between progressive and conservative, but between two fundamentally irreconcilable visions of power: one rooted in the dignity of liberal democratic governance, and the other in the brutish doctrine that might makes right.

In places like Cambodia and Myanmar, there is no left versus right. There is only repression and resistance. There is only the grinding machinery of authoritarian control pitted against the faint voices that dare to speak out. To frame the issue through the narrow lens of American partisanship is not only myopicit is morally unserious.

America, insulated by affluence and fragmented by spectacle, has drifted so far from the world of flesh and blood that it struggles to name the very values it claims to uphold. When foreign autocrats cheer the muting of American-funded media, we should not mistake it for coincidence. We should recognize it for what it is: a victory for tyranny, made possible by our forgetfulness.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Liberty does not die with a bang. It dies in budget cuts and bureaucratic indifferenceand in the quiet dismantling of a signal that once transmitted hope across oceans.

Read more at The Dispatch

The Dispatch is a new digital media company providing engaged citizens with fact-based reporting and commentary, informed by conservative principles. Sign up for free.
During a routine traffic stop for an alleged suspended license in Springfield, Ohio, a raccoon was seen grasping a meth pipe, catching the attention of local police.

An officer conducted the stop on Monday, May 5, the Springfield Township Police Department said in a May 6 press release. After the officer "made contact with the driver," identified as 55-year-old Victoria Vidal, she was detained "without incident."

"However, things took an unusual turn" as the officer returned to the vehicle, police continued. "He observed a raccoon named "Chewy" sitting in the driver's seat with a meth pipe in its mouth."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Chewy had somehow gotten hold of a glass methamphetamine pipe, leading officers to further inspect the vehicle," said police.



Springfield Township Police Department Booking photo of Victoria Vidal, Mugshot Booking photo of Victoria Vidal, Mugshot

The discovery caused the officer to do "a subsequent search," which allegedly revealed a "bulk amount of methamphetamine, crack cocaine" and "three used glass meth pipes," police said.

Vidal, a resident of Akron, Ohio, was detained by the Springfield Township Police Department. She was charged with F3 possession of drugs, three counts of possession of drug paraphernalia, and received a citation for driving with a suspended license, per the STPD.

She was booked by the Cuyahoga Falls Police for her active warrant.



Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Related: Calif. Family Spots Pet Donkey Missing 5 Years Living with an Elk Herd: He's a 'Wild Burro Now'

"While our officers are trained to expect the unexpected, finding a raccoon holding a meth pipe is a first! No raccoons were hurt or injured in this incident."

They confirmed that Chewy was "unharmed" and noted that Vidal is the raccoon's rightful owner.

PEOPLE reached out to the STPD for comment but did not immediately hear back.

Related: Dead Horse Found on Busy Atlanta Sidewalk: 'Very Unusual to See'

In Ohio, residents are permitted to own a raccoon as a pet if they file the appropriate documentation, Fox 8 reported. Among other permitted exotic pets are chinchillas, sugar gliders, antelopes, roaming buffalo, moose, caribou, llamas, tarantulas, alpacas, deer and emus.

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.

It is unclear if Chewy will be returned to Vidal's care.



Read the original article on People
Stephen Colbert kicked off Tuesday nights episode The Late Show with his first guest, famed political correspondent Rachel Maddow, and asked one question that encapsulated Trumps second term: What the Fk?!

After he congratulated the Rachel Maddow Show host on working every weeknight to cover the first 100 days of Trumps second term on MSNBC, Colbert then asked what the coverage has taught her about his second term and what the playbook for Trumps new administration is.

So, the common wisdom when Trump was coming back for a second term was he would have worked out all the kinks in the first term, that maybe he had some really radical intentions for the country in the first term but he was not really good at doing anything and so we didnt have to deal with the worst of it, Maddow explained. The common wisdom is hell be better at it this time around. Not true! Turns out, there was no learning about how to do the stuff.

Colbert then pointed out that a big problem with authoritarianism is that it all falls to one person, referencing growing unease with the Trump administrations tendency to skirt long-established processes  like outright ignoring orders from the judicial branch.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The personalization of government means you are depending on the personal competence of the guy in charge, Maddow said in agreement, adding that it was a limiting factor in terms of what can happen in an authoritarian government.

The MSNBC host then went on to explain that the main difference she has noticed in terms of the public response this time around has been through protesting. Maddow pointed out that during his first term there was the Womens March in the days after he first got elected; this time, however, protesting has taken a more consistent form.

There was not one huge protest. But in Trumps first 100 days this time, people protest in, I swear, like all 50 states every day  and it never stops, Maddow said. I mean, every day Im covering protests in Tuscaloosa and Boise and Lima, Ohio. I have to watch local news clips to figure out how to pronounce the name of the town where there is the demonstration.

Maddow also commented on how the nationwide pushback has started to largely affect Republican members of Congress, who are getting yelled at when they go out in their own congressional districts. She explained that this was not just happening with Democrats but in historically conservative areas where people have been surprised about cuts to government programs like Social Security and mass layoffs from government agencies at the hands of Elon Musks DOGE.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Even if you are in Republican plus 30 districts, where Democrats have not won an election in living memory, but still theres enough angry people, Democrats, Independents and Republicans in every congressional district in the country that Republicans now just are not showing their faces because they cant take it, Maddow said. Thats what happens when you cut Meals on Wheels, when you cut Head Start, you mess with Social Security. You do all this stuff, you are never going to survive politically.

Later in the interview, Colbert said that he was concerned that the amount of incompetence and disregard GOP Congress members seem to have for their constituencies  and that it seems like officials were not worried about answering to voters during midterms. Theres been growing unease over President Trump refusal to deny the possibility of a third term and a recent Meet the Press interview earlier this week where he said he didnt know if he had to uphold the Constitution.

The people who warned us about how bad this was going to be. The people who were really hysterical, like the doomsayers, they were all right, Maddow said. What we are experiencing is not just someone fighting against the democratic party, hes fighting against the democratic process. He doesnt think there should be elections and they are consolidating power.

She continued: They are disempowering Congress, ignoring Congress, defunding agencies or closing agencies, thats Congress job, thats not the presidents job. When they are defying court orders, thats them saying the courts dont have authority over the president. Thats consolidating all the power with one man, thats authoritarianism, and thats what you do when you dont want to have an election because you want to stay in power for life.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Maddow did close out on a bit of a hopeful note, saying that although things are bad, the Trump administrations continued disregard for the rules have started to anger the public.

There has never been in the history of this country an American president who had been this unpopular at 100 days in, Maddow said. The American public understands. They are just saying No, No, No!

You can watch The Late Show clip in the video above.

The post Rachel Maddow Says Hysterical Doomsdayers Were Right About Trump 2nd Term: They Are Consolidating Power | Video appeared first on TheWrap.
On hundreds of doorsteps, from Runcorn to Doncaster, Labour activists were confronted again and again with three words that have become synonymous with Labours disastrous first year in power: winter fuel allowance.

Chancellor Rachel Reevess decision to restrict universal energy support to pensioners in receipt of pension credit effectively snatched up to 300 from around 10 million people overnight. The cuts were widely blamed for Labours poor performance at last weeks local elections, not least by Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, who said on Tuesday it may have cost the party votes.

With a year to go until voters head to ballot boxes again, ministers are understood to be scrambling. On Monday night, The Guardian reported that the Government was considering raising the pension credit threshold to allow more pensioners to access winter fuel support.

However, Sir Keir Starmer has ruled out an outright U-turn on the policy, telling broadcasters: We had to stop the chaos, we had to stabilise the economy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mr Streeting said on Tuesday that the policy was not being formally reviewed, but that the Government was reflecting on what the voters told us.

The decision to scrap the universal benefit is estimated to fill a fiscal black hole supposedly left by the Conservatives.

Amid the furore over the partys embarrassing performance at local elections, and a mounting rebellion over further planned cuts to disability benefits, Labour is under pressure to revive the winter fuel allowance in some guise without running up a sky-high benefits bill.

Here, Telegraph Money looks at the options:

Raise the pension credit threshold

Pension credit is the primary way pensioners can continue to claim the winter fuel payment. It is a means-tested state benefit for low-income retirees over state pension age, which is currently 66 for both men and women, rising to 67 between 2026 and 2028.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To qualify for pension credit, you must live in the UK and have a weekly income of less than 218.15. For couples, this threshold is 332.95. Under winter fuel reforms, only those with incomes below this limit would be eligible.

Sir Steve Webb, former pensions minister, has previously argued the threshold creates a sharp cliff-edge for those whose income is just above pension credit levels, adding that anyone just a few pounds above the pension credit level suddenly loses entitlement to a list of additional benefits that come with pension credit, leaving them much worse off than someone on a slightly lower income.

There is speculation that the Government could raise the threshold to allow more pensioners to claim the benefit. However, Sir Steve told The Telegraph the approach could be highly complex, would take time to design, legislate and implement, and could still have major problems of non-take-up if the rules of the new system were not straightforward.

In the 16 weeks after the Chancellors announcement, pension credit claims surged by 145pc, according to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The Government received 215,200 claims between April and November last year, of which 81,000 were awarded.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pension credit entitles claimants to so-called passported support, which includes help with council tax, housing benefit and free TV licences. Policy In Practice estimates that the average pensioner claims 6,800 a year in benefits linked to pension credit.

Sir Steve added that a significant chunk of the savings made by the winter fuel raid would be lost if the threshold was raised, due to the high concentration of pensioners just above the current threshold.

The Martin Lewis proposal  restrict to those on lower council tax bands

At the height of the energy crisis, the Government paid a 150 council tax rebate to those in council tax bands A to D. Ministers argued that this rebate allowed for support to be targeted towards those in low-quality homes.

Analysis of DWP figures by consultancy firm LCP reveals low income pensioners are far more likely to live in properties with a council band between A and D.

Although paying benefits on the basis of having a lower value property is likely to involve paying to significant numbers of people who are not on a low income, it would certainly be a more targeted approach than a universal payment, the report concluded.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Martin Lewis, the consumer champion, has favoured this approach, and reportedly put the suggestion to Ms Reeves last year. I have to say it is an imperfect solution, but it is a workable, quick solution, he told the Today programme.

Restricting winter fuel payments to older pensioners

Perhaps the most straightforward solution available to ministers would be to reinstate the universal payment, but only for the oldest retirees.

DWP figures revealed that the surge in winter fuel payments made last year was almost entirely driven by those over 75. The number of younger pensioners who received the benefit was largely unchanged, the DWP said.

The logic of the solution was that the oldest pensioners were more at risk of higher energy bills.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ms Abrahams said: Being chronically cold is a health risk for older people, especially if they have underlying health conditions, so this was potentially disastrous for them and also piled extra pressure on the NHS.

However, LCPs analysis found the vast majority of the 1.9 million pensioners in poverty were not elderly.

The analysis found: Although around 600,000 [pensioners] are aged 80 or over and perhaps might better fit the stereotype of spending more time at home with the heating on, the majority of poorer pensioners are not elderly, the report said.

This means that any policy to restrict payments only to the oldest pensioners could risk excluding the majority of poor pensioners.

Taxing winter fuel payments

To some extent, the Government already tailors support to those on low incomes using the tax system. Indeed, some retirees already pay tax on the state pension itself.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The DWPs database on households below-average income does not separate which pensioners are taxpayers and which are not, and further complications arise since income tax is levied on individuals, while pension credit is paid to households.

For example, in a couple where one is aged over 80 and the other is aged under 80, the household receives a 300 payment, the report explained.

However, because HMRC does not hold data on who lives with whom, it would not know that the person under 80 was, in effect, benefiting from half of a 300 payment rather than half of a 200 payment.

LCP estimates taxing the winter fuel payment would raise 300m for the Treasury in a year  far less than the estimated 1.4bn savings touted by Ms Reeves when she announced the cuts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The report found that this would adversely affect a negligible number of low income pensioners.

All of the alternatives to the Governments proposal protect more low-income pensioners, the report concluded. But those that have the greatest effect do so by significantly reducing the likely revenue from the policy.

Simon Francis, of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition charity, has called for a social tariff on energy bills, which would see vulnerable households pay a lower per-unit price for their energy, which could then be topped up by the winter fuel payment.

Older households who have disabilities or certain medical conditions will have higher energy use, and are more vulnerable to illness if they do not keep energy use at a certain level, he said. Seeing this just as an income-related benefit doesnt account for the fact that older people living in cold, damp homes can become a medical problem, not just a poverty one.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mr Francis added that energy bill support would be necessary until Labour followed through on its pledge to fund the insulation of millions of homes.

However, the Treasury this week refused to rule out that the 6.6bn allocated to insulate millions of homes could be diluted to balance the books.

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.
Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi of Illinois has announced his bid to run for Senate in 2026, confirming speculations that he would join the quickly expanding field of primary competitors looking to win the safe Democratic seat left open by Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., who is retiring at the end of his term.

In an interview with ABC News, the five-term congressman said he's running on a record of confronting "bullies" like Donald Trump and is keenly focused on opposing the efforts by the Department of Government Efficiency and Elon Musk to slash federal agencies, programs and jobs.

PHOTO: Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi walks down the House steps after last votes in the Capitol, March 27, 2025. (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)

"I have a track record of standing up to Donald Trump in Congress. I voted for impeaching him twice, but I also  played a big role in the first impeachment hearings on Capitol Hill," said Krishnamoorthi, who entered the House in 2016, now serves as the top Democrat on the House China select committee on the Chinese Communist Party and is a senior member of the Intelligence and Oversight committees.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"But I have a track record of standing up to lots of bullies, whether it's the e-cigarette companies that prey on our youth and try to hook them on vapes or it's Purdue pharmaceuticals that try to hook a generation to Oxycontin. I've gone after all of them. They put a target on my back, but I got results, and now we need results with Donald Trump, Elon Musk and DOGE," he added.

Krishnamoorthi added that he is running to fight for the economic prosperity of Illinoisans who are "suffering under the economic chaos unleashed by Donald Trump, Elon Musk and DOGE."

"We need to focus like a laser on their economic problems right now, even at the same time that we're standing up to Donald Trump," he told ABC News.

Krishnamoorthi's bid will kick off with three campaign stops on Friday as he "vows to 'stand up and fight back' against Trump's agenda. The congressman, who represents much of Chicago's northwestern suburbs, will make stops in his hometown of Peoria, Illinois, and in Schaumburg, Illinois, where he currently lives.

PHOTO: Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin, D-Ill., is seen at the Capitol in Washington, Nov. 14, 2024. (J. Scott Applewhite/AP)

"My roots are in Peoria. I represent the suburbs. I've worked in the city for many years. So I want to try to trace that journey that I've had in Illinois but also speak to as many people as possible across Illinois," he told ABC News.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In an announcement video released on Wednesday, Krishnamoorthi called the actions occurring within the White House "insanity" and suggested that he is a Democrat who can "fight back" against the Trump administration. The Democratic Party is grappling with questions over its political direction following the startling loss of all three branches of government during the 2024 elections.

"People want to know, at this moment, in this time, where is the power to fight back? What does it look like?" Krishnamoorthi said in the video. "Well, I'll tell you: It looks like you and you and you, all of us ready to stand up and fight back. I spent my life standing up to bullies, fighting for everyday people. So I'll never be quiet while billionaires like Elon Musk and a convicted felon deny the dreams of the next generation for their own egos and personal profit. That's why I'm running for the United States Senate."

The Harvard University-educated lawyer who received his undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering from Princeton University was born in central Illinois to Indian immigrants.

Ahead of his election to Congress, Krishnamoorthi served in a number of state roles and as a policy director in the Obama administration. In his announcement video released on Wednesday, the congressman referred to himself as "Raja" and referenced the fact that former President Barack Obama, too, had an ethnically ambiguous sounding name, saying, "I worked on a friend's campaign who showed that Illinois will give you a shot even if you have a funny name. And inspired by Barack's example, I was elected to Congress."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Yes, I know the name is long, so like always, just call me Raja," he concluded the video.

Krishnamoorthi, one of the front-runners in the already hotly contested race, has amassed over a $19 million war chest ahead of his launch, with a stunning $3 million raised in just the first three months of 2025.

His bid comes after Durbin announced in April that he would not seek a sixth term. Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton jumped in the race less than 48 hours after Durbin's announcement and quickly earned the endorsements of billionaire Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Illinois' other senator, Tammy Duckworth.

"At the end of the day, the most important thing is I get the endorsement from the people of Illinois," Krishnamoorthi told ABC News when asked about his posture among the already crowded primary field.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"They need to have their say.  We need to make sure that the process plays out, unfolds, that they are able to kick the tires and assess who they want to hire to represent them in the U.S. Senate, and I'm going to do everything in my power to earn their support," he added.

Krishnamoorthi's announcement also comes just a day after his colleague, Rep. Robin Kelly, D-Ill., declared her own bid for the seat. In an announcement video posted on Tuesday, Kelly brought up how in Congress, she does not stand up during moments of silence to mark mass shootings because, she said, "moments of silence in Congress just aren't going to cut it anymore."

PHOTO: Congresswoman Robin Kelly (D-IL) questions a witness during a House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee meeting on Medicaid in Washington, DC on March 6, 2025. (Nathan Posner/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Kelly is also the former Illinois Democratic Party chairwoman and a member of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries' leadership team. It's reported that Rep. Lauren Underwood, who is also a member of Jeffries' leadership circle, is still exploring a run for the seat.

Krishnamoorthi told ABC News that his record, paired with his ability to "stand up" to Trump distinctly, makes him uniquely positioned for the role.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I think that your track record matters. I think that the diversity of your experiences, plus  where you come from, I think that matters," he said. "I think that most of all, who is going to be the most effective at standing up to Donald Trump but also delivering for constituents?"

Durbin said he doesn't plan on endorsing any particular candidate but is not ruling out the possibility in an "extreme case."

"I hope I do not have to," Durbin said.

Still, Krishnamoorthi linked himself to Durbin as he launched his bid for Senate on Wednesday, lauding him as a "titan" who was a "fellow son of downstate."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Senator Dick Durbin is a titan who will go down as one of the most effective and dedicated public servants in Illinois history. I am deeply humbled by the encouragement I have received from friends, family members, and community leaders encouraging me, a fellow son of downstate, to run for the U.S. Senate," Krishnamoorthi said in a statement announcing his candidacy.

Raja Krishnamoorthi launches bid for open Illinois Senate seat originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
CHICAGO  Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, a prolific fundraiser, announced his long-expected run for Illinois open U.S. Senate seat.

I've made a career of standing up to bullies in Congress, and now we have to stand up to Donald Trump, who's in the way of people realizing their full economic potential, Krishnamoorthi said in an interview with POLITICO. It's the number one agenda item for a lot of people: to stand up to Donald Trump, not back down and make sure that we get our government back working for the people.

The self-described common sense Democrat" joins whats becoming a crowded Democratic primary to replace retiring Sen. Dick Durbin.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Krishnamoorthi is considered a top contender in the race given hes banked more than $19 million in his campaign fund. The Democratic primary already includes Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, who has the backing of Gov. JB Pritzker and Sen. Tammy Duckworth, and Democratic Rep. Robin Kelly. Rep. Lauren Underwood is also mulling a bid.

On Friday, Krishnamoorthi will host his first official campaign events, making stops in his hometown of Peoria, as well as Chicago and Schaumburg.

Whoever the next senator is has to continue Senator Durbin's incredible legacy of representing the entire state in the U.S. Senate, Krishnamoorthi said. As somebody who's from downstate, who represents the suburbs and who's worked in the city for many years, I think that I bring some of the qualities necessary to represent the full breadth of what it means to be an Illinoisan.

Krishnamoorthi was first elected to Congress in 2016, representing the suburban 8th District seat that had been held by Duckworth before she won the states other Senate seat. In 2012, Krishnamoorthi lost to Duckworth for the House seat.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This wont be his first time running statewide. In 2010 Krishnamoorthi ran for state comptroller, losing by a razor-thin margin after he served as Illinois deputy treasurer.

Krishnamoorthi is also a longtime behind-the-scenes player in Illinois Democratic politics, including working for Barack Obamas unsuccessful run for Congress in 2000, his winning bid for Senate in 2004, and his 2008 presidential campaign.

Krishnamoorthi was born in India and was three months old when his family moved to Buffalo, New York. A few years later, they moved to Peoria, where his father worked at Bradley University.

During speaking events, Krishnamoorthi has highlighted his familys story of fulfilling the American dream, describing how they lived in public housing for a time when his father lost his job and before landing his teaching position in Peoria.

The Illinois Democrat serves as ranking member on the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and on the Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the U.S. and the Chinese Communist Party, also as the ranking member.
BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) -- China's central bank vowed on Wednesday more financial support through relending for sectors including tech innovation, service consumption and elderly care.

The People's Bank of China (PBOC), the central bank, will add the quota of relending for technological innovation and upgrading by 300 billion yuan (about 41.7 billion U.S. dollars) to a total of 800 billion yuan, PBOC governor Pan Gongsheng told a press conference.

The central bank will establish a 500-billion-yuan relending facility to support service consumption and elderly care, guiding commercial banks to enhance credit support for these sectors, Pan said.

He noted that the central bank will also add 300 billion yuan in relending quota to support agriculture and small businesses. 
The Raleigh City Council has endorsed charging tolls on Capital Boulevard between Interstate 540 and Wake Forest, but, as some council members made clear, not enthusiastically.

The tolls will allow the N.C. Department of Transportation to accelerate plans to turn the congested four-lane road into a six-lane expressway, with interchanges instead of traffic lights.

Without tolls, NCDOT doesnt anticipate having money to begin building the expressway until 2031, a decade later than originally planned. Rising costs and competition from other projects across the state forced the delay, NCDOT officials say; the latest estimate is that converting 10 miles of Capital/U.S. 1 to an expressway would cost $1.34 billion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

With whats going on in Western North Carolina, that really is just a projection, said city transportation planning manager Kenneth Ritchie, referring to the rebuilding after Hurricane Helene. Certainly costs will continue to increase and impact this project the longer that it draws out.

Under the option backed by the City Council on Tuesday, construction could begin in 2027 and be completed by early 2033.

There are implications to saying no, council member Mitchell Silver said. Doing nothing will be unsustainable long term.

The tolls would be collected by the N.C. Turnpike Authority, a branch of NCDOT. At the request of regional transportation planners, the authority studied tolling and presented four scenarios, all four of which would result in the six-lane limited-access highway:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 Scenario 1: Tolling the entire 10-mile stretch from I-540 north through Wake Forest as a standalone toll road. Would raise an estimated $800 million.

 Scenario 2: Tolling the entire 10 miles but adding it to the N.C. Turnpike system, which would allow the state to borrow more money. Would generate an estimated $1.4 billion.

 Scenario 3: Build and toll one express lane in each direction, again as a standalone toll road. The existing four-lane road would remain free. Would raise an estimated $100 million.

 Scenario 4: Build and toll one express lane in each direction and add them to the N.C. Turnpike system. With the additional borrowing power, the lanes would generate an estimated $600 million.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Turnpike Authority didnt provide specific toll costs, but said the rates for a fully tolled expressway would be similar to what drivers pay to use the Triangle Expressway in southern Wake County. This year, drivers with an NC Quick Pass pay about 23 cents a mile, though the rates rise a bit each year. The toll rates for the express lanes would vary during the day, depending on traffic.

Council vote wasnt close

The City Council voted 7-1 to back Scenario 2, in part because it would generate the most money. Opposing tolls was Megan Patton, whose district straddles Capital Boulevard north of I-540 and who said her constituents are generally opposed to the expressway itself.

When Ive taken this out to the community, every resident Ive spoken to understands that no toll means no build, Patton said. And for them that seems to resonate as being the better option than any of the tolled scenarios.

Patton understood, though, that the council would back tolls and the expressway. She urged that the tolls be cheaper at night or off-peak hours and that the road be designed to accommodate bus rapid transit in the future.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At-large council member Jonathan Lambert-Melton indicated that hed also heard from residents who questioned tolling the road. Lambert-Melton said he believed the project would move ahead with tolls anyway and that it was more a matter of which scenario the council wanted to endorse.

People keep saying, Why do you want to put tolls on Capital Boulevard? This is the N.C. Department of Transportation, he said. This is not any of us saying, Lets go ahead and add toll lanes to a city road or anything like that.

The councils endorsement will be passed on to the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, which does transportation planning. The CAMPO board, which includes representatives from cities, towns and counties in and around Wake County, will make the final decision on whether to ask the Turnpike Authority to toll Capital Boulevard.
There are some videos that people see on social media that immediately give them the heebie-jeebies, and this is one of them. ABC News shared a clip that was taken in Australia by a motorist driving down a rural dirt road, and it's a scene straight out of a nightmare.

The video was taken in mid-April and shows the motorist driving through a huge swarm of grasshoppers, and you can literally hear hundreds of them hitting the windshield. It's a big NO for us and we would've turned right back around and aborted the mission!

I had to know more what was going on and found it at News.com.AU. The footage was taken by a local named Mark Suhr along a rural road in Laglan, Queensland.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The grasshoppers are being watched closely and there's cause for concern because these insects are considered pests. "Bertie Hennecke, chair of the Australian Plague Locust Commission (APLC), said that the grasshopper population could increase to plague proportions if conditions like good rain and healthy vegetation continue in the next few months."

Related: Alien-Looking Insect Is Leaving People Scratching Their Heads

Reactions to the Giant Swarm of Grasshoppers in Australia

As you can imagine, viewers of ABC News' video had a lot to say about it and left nearly 10 thousand comments. @Hannita got more than 232 thousand likes when she joked, "Convinced Australia is just JUMANJI island at this point LOL!" and @THIERRY got almost 100 thousand likes when he added, "Bro thank GOD Australia broke off from the rest of the world..."

Another commenter made me laugh when they said, "Every day this app gives me 10 more reasons to never step foot in Australia..." @lauryn agreed and added, "I swear Australia is its own planet."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

More than 106 thousand people agreed with @Michael who admitted, "Hey so I did not like that." @Bird_Trails felt the same way and said, "The sounds," with a throw-up emoji. @Charollos added, "Is this hell?"

Many commenters pointed out that these were locusts, but the news report I read at News.com clearly said they were grasshoppers. Many people use the names interchangeably.

To confuse things even more, Forest Wildlife says that all locusts are grasshoppers, but not all grasshoppers become locusts. Other differences include locusts have the ability to fly, but grasshoppers cannot. Locusts also are known to form swarms, while grasshoppers are typically solitary.

Whatever they are, I hope never to run into a swarm of them.
Residents of the fire-ravaged Tahitian Terrace mobile home park in Pacific Palisades who are facing deep uncertainty about whether their community will be rebuilt  a decision that is out of their hands  are "one step closer to returning home," Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath said Tuesday.

The mobile home park will be included in the federally funded debris removal program after initially being left out, Horvath said in a statement. Residents "now have certainty that the government will clear their properties."

The announcement follows weeks of limbo for the owners of the mobile home park and residents of its 158 homes, all but one of which were destroyed in the Jan. 7 Palisades fire.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tahitian Terrace was home to an eclectic mix. There were wealthy residents, including Shark Tank star and investor Barbara Corcoran. But there also were many seniors on fixed incomes who had paid off their homes decades ago, as well as a smattering of young, middle-income families.

In the hillside park just across from Will Rogers State Beach, residents own their homes but lease their plots of land, which are rent-controlled. The park has long been owned by a small, family-run company that makes little profit off the property.

The determination of who would pay for the debris removal has been a major factor in deciding whether to rebuild Tahitian Terrace, the park owners said in a March 21 letter to residents.

Read more: Mobile homes by the beach: In Pacific Palisades, a middle-class dream is destroyed

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ruthi Munoz, a manager of the mobile home park who was reached by The Times on Tuesday, did not comment on the announcement, saying she was still learning the details.

The federal private-property debris removal, Phase 2 of the cleanup, is conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and offered free of charge to eligible homeowners who opt in. It follows the first phase, in which contractors from the U.S. Environmental Agency have removed potentially hazardous household items  such as pesticides, paint and lithium-ion batteries  that cannot be trucked to normal landfills.

Some types of multifamily housing that have at least one owner-occupied unit  such as a duplex or condominium  are eligible for the Army Corps' Phase 2 cleanup.

But multifamily rental properties that are owned by for-profit entities and do not include a single owner-occupied unit, such as apartment complexes and mobile home parks, generally are not eligible.

Street signs melted in the Jan. 7 fire at the Tahitian Terrace mobile home park. (Christina House / Los Angeles Times)

The Federal Emergency Management Agency, which is responsible for allocating funding and outlining cleanup procedures, has said the owners of those commercial properties are expected to use their insurance and hire licensed contractors to conduct debris removal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But those property owners have been allowed to apply for the Army Corps debris removal, with their eligibility being considered on a case-by-case basis.

Robert Fenton, FEMA's Region 9 administrator, has said those property owners must provide justification for the use of federal funds on their cleanups, including that debris on the property poses a public health risk and that the commercial owner might not be able to complete the debris removal independently.

In a letter Monday to Nancy Ward, director of the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services, Fenton wrote: "After careful consideration, I agree with your assessment that Tahitian Terrace is a rare and exceptional case eligible for inclusion in the PPDR [Private Property Debris Removal] program."

Read more: 'We're all freaking out.' For mobile home residents, few answers after Palisades fire

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On April 2, Los Angeles County officials requested that the mobile home park be included, according to Fenton's letter.

Although the EPA has removed potentially hazardous materials, "due to the unique characteristics of the property, immediate threats to public health and safety remain," Fenton wrote.

The Army Corps, he wrote, "estimates that 50% of the sites on the property contain friable asbestos."

The mobile home lots "are on a steep, fire-damaged hillside that overlooks Pacific Coast Highway," which, before the fire, was traversed by nearly 48,000 vehicles per day, he wrote. Comprehensive debris removal from Tahitian Terrace, he wrote, "is necessary to eliminate the immediate threat to the health and safety" of those commuters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fenton also laid out why the park's owners, Azul Pacifico Inc.  a family-run business that has owned and operated Tahitian Terrace, its principal asset, since 1960  could struggle to complete the debris removal independently.

He cited their monthly income as an obstacle. The business' average pre-fire total rental income was about $240,000 per month, excluding utilities and operating expenses, he wrote, adding that "the terms of their lease agreement allow residents to withdraw from their leases under current conditions, which will limit their income."

In addition, Fenton noted, the owner's insurance pays $1,000 per plot for catastrophic debris removal with a limit of $50,000.

Fenton wrote that Los Angeles city officials, who have supported the county's request, have deemed Tahitian Terrace, with its rent-controlled plots, to be "an important source of affordable housing in Pacific Palisades."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Based on the City's assurances, I am confident that including Tahitian Terrace in the PPDR program will accelerate the reopening of the park for its displaced tenants and ensure the community retains this affordable residential enclave in an otherwise affluent area."

In their March letter to residents, the park's owners wrote that "no decision about rebuilding can possibly be made until after the debris removal process has been concluded and our full analysis of all the variables is completed."

If Tahitian Terrace is rebuilt, they added, the process "could take many years."

Chris Russo, who closed escrow on a house in Tahitian Terrace one day before the Palisades fire burned it down, said she and other residents were baffled by the park's exclusion from the federal cleanup and spent many hours calling and writing government agencies, pleading for their lots to be cleared.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Without FEMAs assistance, the fate of our ability to return home hinges on the underinsured landowners who are likely financially incapable of taking on the full burden of cleanup," she wrote to FEMA last month. "The situation is dire, and your decision will determine whether our community can rebuild or be permanently erased from the landscape of Los Angeles."

On Tuesday, Russo told The Times she was elated by the news, describing herself as "a squeaky wheel" who wouldn't let the issue be forgotten.

"We're very organized as a community because we all want to go back," Russo said.

"We've been fighting so much. It's exhausting. To get that little bit of a win  it's big news. ... It feels hopeful because we have been in limbo, not knowing what the future is."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Horvath, whose Westside district includes Malibu and the Palisades, has advocated for the inclusion of nonprofits, churches, mobile home parks and commercial properties in the federal debris clearance program.

In her statement Tuesday, she said that, in addition to Tahitian Terrace, the county has requested that Palisades Bowl  an adjacent mobile home park with roughly 170 homes  also be included.

As of Tuesday, a spokeswoman for her office said, the county's request had not been answered.

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.
A Raymond man is facing multiple charges following a car chase Wednesday involving several agencies that began in Hudson and ended on foot in Litchfield, with nearby residents being asked to shelter in place.

Just after 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Litchfield Police responded to a request for assistance from Hudson Police with a motor vehicle pursuit that had crossed into Litchfield.

While en route to an area of the Charles Bancroft Highway near the Hudson town line, a Litchfield officer spotted the vehicle involved and attempted a traffic stop. The driver, later identified by police as Nicholas Maynard, 31, allegedly refused to stop and began passing vehicles, swerving into oncoming traffic, and at one point attempting to strike a southbound vehicle, Litchfield Police said in a media release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The suspect led officers through residential neighborhoods, at times driving around houses, before officers lost visual contact and terminated the pursuit for safety reasons, police said.

A short time later, a witness reported seeing the vehicle on Grove Street, but as officers arrived, Maynard again fled, initiating a second pursuit.

The second chase led officers through more residential neighborhoods onto Sybil Lane and into a private driveway, where Maynard attempted to strike a police cruiser, police said.

As he exited the driveway, he collided with a Litchfield cruiser and fled back onto Charles Bancroft Highway, police said in a statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The pursuit continued north before Maynard entered the grounds of Mels Funway Park and drove into a wooded area, breaking through an emergency access gate to escape. The vehicle was later located behind LKQ Auto Parts with significant damage.

Maynard fled on foot and a search was launched with help from Hudson, Merrimack, Manchester, and Londonderry police, State Police, and the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office. A K-9 unit and drone surveillance were used to assist in the search.

Police said a Romanos Pizza employee reported a man matching Maynards description was inside the restaurant. Upon arrival, officers were told the man had run out a side door. A brief chase ensued before Maynard was caught.

Litchfield Police had put area schools on lockdown and issued a temporary shelter-in-place order for nearby residents as a safety precaution. Both measures were lifted after Maynard was taken into custody and officers determined there was no additional danger to the public.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Maynard is scheduled to be arraigned at Merrimack District Court on Thursday on multiple charges stemming from the incident. A request made to Litchfield police for a list of those charges was not immediately answered.

pfeely@unionleader.com
Tens of thousands of uninsurable homes risk being built on flood plains across the UK under Angela Rayners housing blitz, experts have warned.

The Association for British Insurers (ABI) said the Governments efforts to build 1.5m homes over the next five years could include houses built in some of the UKs highest-risk areas.

Louise Clark, the ABI manager, said: We are concerned that in order to build that level of housing, some decisions are going to be taken to build in flood zones.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We welcome the 1.5m new homes and acknowledge they need to be built but they need investment in flood defences.

Analysis by Aviva shows that 109,000 new homes built in England between 2013 and 2022 were in at-risk areas and the trends suggest around 100,000 of Labours targeted 1.5m new homes could be located in areas prone to flooding.

Ms Clark said: Theres no point building a load of homes in areas at risk of flooding without thinking about the flood risk as well, both now and in the future. Its just making sure that we build the right homes in the right places.

Rising flood risks threaten to leave some homes uninsurable, she suggested.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the medium to long term we will see more homes affected by flooding ... Insurers will all make their individual commercial decisions. Insurers will have to take [higher flood risks] into account when they consider which policies to renew.

The Governments Flood Re scheme currently helps provide coverage for at-risk properties. However, the publicly backed scheme is expected to end in 2039. Homes built after 2009 are also generally excluded from being covered by Flood Re.

There are worries that Ms Rayners building blitz will involve construction on flood zones - PA/Ian Vogler

Building in high-risk flood zones is discouraged by the ABI, which is calling for stricter rules blocking the practice.

The ABI is also calling on the Government to invest 1bn annually on new flood defences, including concrete barriers, to protect houses in areas that face significant risks of flooding.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ms Clark said: Were looking for a commitment to spend at least 1bn a year on flood defences to protect both new and existing homes. Where a decision has been taken to build in areas thats at increased risks of flooding, we would also want the Government to mandate basic flood resistance measures.

Measures to improve flood resilience could include rules ensuring electrical plug sockets are placed higher up on the walls of new houses, the ABI said.

British insurers paid out a record 226m in weather-related claims in the first quarter of 2025 after Storm Eowyn caused millions of pounds worth of damage. It is the first time the quarterly cost of weather-related claims has surpassed the 200m mark.

Labours housebuilding push, led by Ms Rayner, the Housing Secretary, threatens to make the risk of flooding even worse, as construction on green spaces would replace water absorbant land with hard surfaces like concrete.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ms Clark said: The more you concrete over areas, the more youre going to increase surface water flooding. If you have a sudden downpour of rain, like we saw in London a few years ago, theres nowhere for the water to go.

A government spokesman said: We have inherited flood defences in their worst condition on record, which is why under our Plan for Change, we are investing a record 2.65bn to build and maintain flood defences to protect lives, homes and businesses across the country from the dangers of flooding.

This government will also maintain the highest levels of flood protection as we build 1.5 million homes the country need, and we are clear that new developments should be built away from areas at the highest risk of flooding.

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.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport was operating smoothly with no major issues on the first day of Real ID enforcement.

After years of delays, the Real ID Act of 2005, enacted after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, went into effect nationwide on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. Travelers now need to show a security-enhanced driver's license or other Real ID-compliant document to pass airport security or enter federal buildings.

In Phoenix on Wednesday, the Transportation Security Administration had extra screeners on hand at checkpoints. Sky Harbor Airport had extra Navigator volunteers in purple shirts throughout the terminals to guide passengers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As of 9 a.m., Sky Harbor's five security checkpoints  one in Terminal 3 and four in Terminal 4  had waits below 10 minutes. The longest wait observed was around 15 minutes.

'It's not like you can't travel' without a Real ID

Stephanie Randolph was flying back to Nashville from Phoenix. She got her Real ID-compliant Tennessee driver's license in 2019, a year before Real ID was supposed to take effect, but the COVID-19 pandemic delayed its enforcement.

"We wanted to go ahead and get it done instead of waiting until the last minute," she said. Randolph liked how well prepared the Phoenix airport was for the first day of Real ID.

"It seems like the airport is equipped with extra people and asking (passengers) if they have it before they get in line," she said. "And it's not like you can't travel. You have to prove a little more."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On May 6, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said, "people would be allowed to fly" without a Real ID. Passengers without a Real ID will be subject to more intense scrutiny to prove their identity and should allow extra time to get through security.

'A good response from passengers'

TSA screenings at Sky Harbor ran smoothly with no issues on Wednesday, May 7, said TSA spokeswoman Patricia Mancha, who was there for the first day of Real ID enforcement.

"We pretty much have a good response from passengers," she said.

Most people with noncompliant driver's licenses presented passports instead. The purpose of Real ID is to verify travelers' identities and "is not punitive," Mancha said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some travelers at Sky Harbor did not have a Real ID and required additional screening, but Mancha said a firm number would not be available until Thursday, May 8.

Dawn Nemeth was flying home to Silver City, New Mexico; her flight from Philadelphia included a layover in Phoenix. Nemeth, who said she got her Real ID in 2023 and also had her passport with her, said she didn't encounter any problems.

"I know what to expect and I know if I didnt have (Real ID), it would be an issue," Nemeth said.

Dana Edgell flew to Phoenix from Rochester, New York, for a conference and a Grand Canyon trip. He said it took him no more than 20 minutes to get through security in Rochester.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sky Harbor continues to work with TSA and airport partners to educate travelers about Real ID enforcement, airport spokesperson Greg Roybal said.

Airport staff were stationed pre-security in Terminals 3 and 4 to help them find the right TSA queues and encourage them to make sure they have Real ID-compliant identification, he said.

Travelers who arent sure whether their ID is compliant should review the TSAs list of acceptable forms of identification. Those who dont have Real ID should expect additional verification and allow extra time, Roybal said.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Here's how Real ID Day 1 went at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport
Do you have a REAL ID yet?

Starting today, anyone looking to fly domestically or enter a federal building in the United States must have a REAL ID-compliant form of identification.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

As reported on News Center 7 Daybreak, starting today, you will not be allowed through security if you go to an airport with a license that says, Not for Federal ID in the upper right-hand corner.

TRENDING STORIES:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

REAL ID is not an actual piece of identification. Its a federal law established in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks with the purpose of setting national standards for enhanced security with flying in the United States, our sister station KIRO-7 reported.

In Ohio, a REAL ID-compliant drivers license will have a star in the upper right-hand corner. If your license says, Not for Federal ID, Then you will have to update it to a compliant drivers license or use another form of accepted ID to fly domestically.

If you arent planning to fly or enter a federal building in the future, you dont need to update your license. You are still free to travel on land with any kind of valid identification. The REAL ID standards only apply to flying within the United States.

These identification options meet REAL ID standards and can be used to board domestic flights, according to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA):

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

State-issued Enhanced Drivers License

U.S. passport

U.S. passport card

DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)

U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents

Permanent resident card

Border crossing card

An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs).

HSPD-12 PIV card

Foreign government-issued passport

Canadian provincial drivers license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card

Transportation worker identification credential

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)

U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential

Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles will still issue a Standard card if a Compliant card is not needed for the individual.

According to the Ohio BMV, the Compliant and Standard Cards cost the same, but obtaining a Compliant Card requires more documentation than the Standard Card.

To learn more about what documents you need when getting your Compliant Card in Ohio, follow this link.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

REAL ID-compliant cards cannot be used for border crossings into Canada, Mexico, or other international travel. You will need additional identification, such as a passport and visa.

You can learn more about REAL ID here.

[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
Even without a REAL ID driver's license, travelers may still fly after clearing additional security screenings, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said Tuesday. May 7 was the latest deadline for complying with the requirement enacted by Congress 20 years ago. (ky.gov photo)

Though Wednesday is the enforcement date for the national REAL ID law, air travelers without the form of identification may still be able to fly  a concession drawing praise from a Kentucky lawmaker.

Sen. Jimmy Higdon, R-Lebanon, had sent Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem a letter asking for more time to comply with the law. On Tuesday, Higdon said he appreciated Noems showing common sense and flexibility by allowing travelers without a REAL ID to still fly after clearing additional security screenings.

Sen. Jimmy Higdon, R-Lebanon, chairs the Senate Transportation Committee. (LRC Public Information)

Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005 after the 9/11 attacks in 2001 as a way to bolster security screenings at airports. Most of the 9/11 hijackers boarded commercial planes using fraudulent U.S. drivers licenses and state IDs. The law was originally intended to go into effect in 2008 but has been delayed several times.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kentucky began rolling out REAL ID drivers licenses in 2019 starting with a pilot program. Licenses compliant with the federal law require applicants to provide additional documentation, such as a birth certificate, Social Security card and two proofs of residency.

REAL ID or another compliant form of identification is also now required to enter military bases or federal buildings that require it.

As Wednesdays deadline approached, Kentuckys drivers licensing regional offices have had long lines. In addition to the REAL ID implementation, a state law went into effect this year requiring drivers to pass a vision test when renewing their licenses.

Noem said during a U.S. House hearing Tuesday that airport travelers without a REAL ID will face additional security screenings but may still fly.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Instead of REAL ID drivers licenses, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will also accept U.S. passports, passport cards, global entry cards or military ID from those boarding commercial flights.

Last month, 28 Republican members of the Kentucky Senate sent Noem a letter asking for a delay in enforcing the REAL ID law. Higdon, chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, wrote at the time that Kentucky is simply not fully prepared for complete implementation. A spokesperson for the Republican caucus said that while it did not receive a formal response from Homeland Security, Noem and the Trump administration were aware of the letter.

On Tuesday, Higdon issued a statement thanking Noem. Her remarks today bring peace of mind to folks whove dealt with long lines, limited appointments at regional offices, or confusion about whats required, Higdon said. Kentuckians who havent been able to get a REAL ID can now feel confident theyll still be able to fly. That was one of the biggest concerns my colleagues and I had as the May 7 enforcement approached.

Higdon added that the flexibility allows Kentucky additional time to carry out a law that passed earlier this year allowing third-party license renewals. That takes effect on June 27.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last week, Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear announced a Skip the Line option for drivers who want to renew their licenses remotely. A press release from the governors office said that some Kentuckians who want to upgrade to a REAL ID license may still need to visit an office in person.

Kentuckians may still upgrade to a REAL ID after Wednesdays enforcement date.
In a world shaped by the ashes of World War II, the line between memory and manipulation grows increasingly thin. For nations that stood against fascism, the fight was more than geopoliticalit was existential. Azerbaijan, a then-Soviet republic, was one such nation whose contributions to the victory over fascism remain both underrepresented and underappreciated. In stark contrast, neighboring Armenia has, disturbingly, moved in the opposite direction, whitewashing the legacy of Nazi collaborators and erecting monuments to their memory.

Azerbaijans role in the defeat of fascism was not symbolic. It was visceral, costly, and heroic. More than 600,000 Azerbaijani soldiers were mobilized to fight against Nazi Germany. Of them, over 300,000 never returned home. These werent mere numbersthey were fathers, sons, and brothers who perished on the blood-soaked battlefields of Eastern Europe. Azerbaijans sacrifices were not limited to manpower. Soviet Azerbaijan provided 7580% of the fuel consumed by the Red Army. The oil fields of Baku quite literally powered the Soviet war machine, and by extension, the Allied cause. More than 130 military formations were raised in Azerbaijan, with 123 receiving honorary titles for bravery. Industrial plants in Baku operated around the clock, and ordinary citizens donated over 70 million rubles to the Soviet war effort, a staggering contribution from a nation already drained by the demands of war.

While Azerbaijan bled to resist fascism, a very different story was unfolding across the border. Tens of thousands of Armenians fought under the banner of Nazi Germany, notably in the Armenian Legion commanded by General Drastamat Kanayan, also known as Dro, and his associate Garegin Ter-Arutyunyaninfamously known as Garegin Nzhdeh. Nzhdeh did not merely collaborate with the Nazis; he actively supported their ideology, fighting against Soviet forces in the Balkans and aligning himself with Hitler's regime in the hope of creating a fascist Armenian state.

This fascist chapter of Armenian history has not been buried in shame, it has been resurrected. The seeds of Armenias fascist policy against its neighbours, sown by Garegin Nzhdeh, bore fruit in 1988, on the brink of the Soviet Unions collapse. This is not a trivial matter of conflicting historical narratives. The glorification of fascist collaborators in Armenia reflects a broader political culture that has, over decades, flirted with ultranationalism and racial exclusivity. As the Soviet Union neared collapse, Armenia witnessed the rise of figures with fascist leanings. These ideologues laid the groundwork for policies that marginalised ethnic minorities and romanticised Armenias fascist past, embedding it into the nations political fabric.

Under the guise of reunification, Armenian nationalists launched a campaign to annexe Garabagh, triggering mass expulsions of Azerbaijanis from both Armenia and Karabakh. But the purge extended beyond AzerbaijanisKurds, Meskhetians, and Molokans were also uprooted from their ancestral lands, echoing the ethnic cleansing tactics employed by Nazi Germany in occupied territories. The atrocities committed in Khojaly in 1992, where 613 civiliansmany women, children, and the elderlywere brutally massacred, bore chilling resemblance to Nazi massacres in WWII. The strategic targeting of entire communities, not for military reasons but for ethnic erasure, exposes a grim continuity between the ideology Armenia glorifies in figures like Nzhdeh and the wartime horrors the world once vowed never to repeat. Such acts demand global recognition, not diplomatic evasion.

Going further, in 2016, Armenian authorities unveiled a statue of Nzhdeh in the center of Yerevan, elevating a Nazi collaborator to the status of national hero. This move drew sharp criticism not only from the CIS countries and war veterans but also throughout the world. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev also touched on the issue and noted:

We, the heads of state, have repeatedly spoken out against the glorification of fascists. Unfortunately, such cases occur in the CIS area, especially in Armenia. The former government there erected a statue in central Yerevan to Garegin Ter-Arutyunyan, known as Garegin Nzhdeha fascist executioner and traitor who served the German fascists. A large group of war veterans from CIS countries has repeatedly protested this shameless act by Armenias former leadership, President Aliyev stated.

The long-term consequences of this ideological drift became visible during the 2020 Second Garabagh War. That conflict was not only about reclaiming illegally occupied territories, it was also about confronting the ideological descendants of Nzhdeh and Dro. In liberating its lands from Armenian occupation, Azerbaijan delivered a modern-day verdict on fascist revisionism. It was a victory not just of arms, but of historical justice.

Yet, while the world once united in condemning fascism at Nuremberg, today it remains oddly silent about its glorification in Armenia. Western institutions that champion human rights and memory culture have, in many cases, turned a blind eye to Yerevans rehabilitation of Nazi-aligned figures. Why is a world that rightly supported the Nuremberg Trials so hesitant to speak out against a statue of a Nazi collaborator in downtown Yerevan? Is the geography of the crime now more important than its nature?

There is an unsettling hypocrisy at play. Azerbaijans efforts to spotlight Armenias fascist flirtations are often dismissed, while Armenias offensive distortion of history receives little more than a diplomatic shrug.

History does not forget, but people do. That is why it is crucial to remind the world of Azerbaijans legitimate and valorous place in the history of the fight against fascism. It is equally important to call out the glorification of those who fought for Hitler, regardless of modern political convenience.

The memory of World War II must not be treated as a toolkit to be bent toward nationalist ends. It must be preserved with integrity. Azerbaijan has upheld that integrity, both through its wartime sacrifices and its postwar moral stance. Armenia, by contrast, has chosen to venerate traitors and whitewash atrocities.

In todays geopolitical landscape, standing against fascism is not only about remembering the pastit is also about shaping the future. Azerbaijan has done both. The world should recognise that, and hold to account those who betray the values of 1945.
TEHRAN, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi departed Tehran for New Delhi on Wednesday evening for talks with senior Indian officials amid the rising tensions between India and Pakistan.

Heading a diplomatic delegation, Araghchi is scheduled to discuss bilateral issues as well as the latest regional and international developments during the trip, according to a statement released by the Iranian Foreign Ministry.

He will also co-chair, along with his Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, a meeting of the joint economic commission to follow up on the latest progress of bilateral economic agreements, the statement said.

The visit comes amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following a deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam in Indian-controlled Kashmir on April 22.

Earlier this week, Araghchi paid a visit to Pakistan, where he exchanged views with senior Pakistani officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, on bilateral ties as well as regional and international developments. 
AVOCA, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)  Beginning today, you will need a Real ID to get into some government buildings and to pass through airport security.

But what if you still dont have one?

28/22 News asked that very question for travelers at the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport.

After years of delays, the Real ID enforcement is here.

Hearing it on the radio and the TV, trying to get everyone prepared, I guess, said Timothy Green of Florida.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Signs all over the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport alert travelers of the new rules, with many cooperating.

Ignited explosive device found inside church rectory

It seems like Northeast Pennsylvania travelers are very savvy. We had about a 98% compliance with either the Real ID, or another form of passport or military ID, explained Mark Bailer, director of public safety at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport.

I have my Global Travelers card with me. My Real ID on my drivers license didnt come through, Im due to renew next month, so I thought Ill get it then, said Ro Hume of Scranton.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite the previous TSA mandate stating you must have one to fly, those without a Real ID are still able to get through security.

Theyre still able to get through, theres just an enhanced security procedure when they get searched going through security, explained Bailer.

To help with first-day reinforcement, cards were handed out to travelers.

Before heading to security, youre going to get a red or green card. Red meaning Real ID and green meaning non-compliant. Then you hand off your card to be pointed in the right direction.

Lines for pre-check, another for Real ID, and a third for those without a Real ID, or a second form, are separated at TSA to help with crowd control.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One traveler we spoke to says its easier to get the Real ID so you dont have to worry.

Just make sure you get to the DMV, you have your proper documents before you go to ensure that you can get your proper ID, but it really is just a quick trip to the DMV, said Kaitlin Sickle of Kingston.

Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport officials say the red and green card procedure will only be temporary.

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.
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  As of May 7, travelers flying domestically in the U.S. must present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification at airport security checkpoints or expect to go through additional security measures.

If youve renewed your drivers license in recent years, you may have noticed a small star in the upper corner. That star indicates that your license is REAL ID compliant, meeting the federal requirements established by the REAL ID Act.

Ive not had the chance or the time to go get it, said Osa Okoh, a traveler at Reagan National Airport (DCA) on Wednesday morning. But its something thats required, so Im eventually going to get it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

REAL ID: What is it, how to get one in DC, Maryland, Virginia

Okoh, like many others, did not have a star on his ID as of May 7, but he was able to use an alternative form of identification to get through security.

I always travel with my passport. I just put it in and I hop on the plane and I go, he said.

The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005 after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, requiring states to enhance the security of state-issued IDs and licenses. It was expected to go into effect in 2008 but faced multiple delays due to state implementation challenges.

Now, as of Wednesday, it is being fully enforced for domestic flights nationwide.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The critical point is we want to know whos boarding the flights, we want to know that you are who you say you are, said Lisa Farbstein, spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

TSA officers will inform travelers without a valid ID that they are non-compliant. Those individuals may be pulled aside for additional screening, including physical screening.

Frontier announces new route at Baltimore-Washington International Airport to Chicago

If you dont have a REAL-ID, according to the TSA website, travelers are able to use the following acceptable forms of ID:

A valid passport or passport card

A Department of Defense military ID

A Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

A foreign government-issued passport

Permanent resident card

Border crossing card

An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)

HSPD-12 PIV card

Foreign government-issued passport

Canadian provincial drivers license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card

Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)

U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential

Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Travelers from Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington may have enhanced drivers licenses marked with a U.S. flag.

These are primarily for car or foot travel between the U.S. and neighboring countries, like Canada and Mexico, but they are not valid for air travel unless they also include the REAL ID star.

You can check your local DMV website to learn what documents are required to obtain a REAL-ID and make an appointment.

Theres still plenty of time for you to get that REAL ID or search your house for a possible acceptable alternative. We do not expect this to impact wait times at checkpoints nationwide, said Farbstein.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56)  Wednesday marks the start of Real ID enforcement in the United States for anyone flying domestically or who is looking to visit a military base.

Its meant to enhance security.

According to the states official Real ID website, only 36.6%, or roughly 1.3 million Kentuckians, have a Real ID.

Last week, the Trump Administration declined a request from Kentucky lawmakers to delay the Real ID enforcement start date due to long lines at regional offices for people getting their IDs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) has announced a skip-the-line alternative to avoid waiting at driver licensing offices for your Real ID.

Options are now available using online, in-office, and mail-in renewal forms.

Read more of the latest Lexington & central Kentucky news

KYTC has been adding staff and implementing new line management technology to make things smoother for customers.

On Tuesday, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced that travelers who do not currently have a Real ID are still able to fly for the time being, but will be diverted to a different line for extra screening.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

People will be allowed to fly, Noem said. We recognize that this is a security issue, and we intend to follow the law. So, we will make sure that it is as seamless as possible and that travelers will get to stay on their intended itinerary. But we are telling people that this law will be enforced, and it will allow us to know individuals in this country of who they are and that theyre authorized to travel.

If you have applied for and have been approved for your Real ID but havent gotten your official ID card yet, staff at Blue Grass Airport in Lexington said you are allowed to fly with the temporary paper ID given at KYTC offices.

Prep work at Blue Grass Airport has been months in the making for the official Real ID start date.

With that said, airport staff like Community Relations Manager Lauren Simmerman say as you pack for your next vacation, especially in the couple of days after the official Real ID start date Wednesday, you should pack your patience.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite preparation, this is still a new process for everyone, TSA officers included.

After Noems announcement Tuesday, Simmerman is encouraging one other major thing as people prepare to travel.

The best advice that we can offer is give yourself plenty of time, Simmerman said. Its going to cause some additional screening, maybe a little bit of extra time and effort on your end, but hopefully theyre going to be able to get you through.

If you dont have a Real ID, you still can travel with several different documents:

Kentuckys REAL ID card versions or other federally approved cards offered by other states

U.S. passport

U.S. passport card

DHS Trusted Traveler card (Global

Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)

U.S. Department of Defense ID,

including IDs issued to dependents

Permanent resident card

Border crossing card

DHS-designated enhanced drivers

license

Federally recognized,

tribal-issued photo ID

HSPD-12 PIV card

Foreign government-issued

passport

Canadian provincial drivers license

or Indian/Northern Affairs Canada

card

Transportation worker identification

credential (TWIC)

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration

Services Employment Authorization

Card (I-766)

U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential

Veteran Health Identification Card

(VHIC)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Starting tomorrow, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at U.S. airports will no longer accept state-issued IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant at TSA checkpoints.

Before boarding domestic flights, all airline passages ages 18 and older must to present REAL ID-compliant identification or another approved ID, such as a passport, a passport card, or a U.S. Department of Defense ID. The new rule also applies to TSA Precheck members.

As opposed to a standard state IDs, REAL IDs are a valid form of federal identification. Massachusetts residents can check the top right corner of their drivers license or Mass ID for a star, which distinguishes the ID as REAL ID-compliant.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Five states  Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont  issue Enhanced Drivers Licenses and Enhanced IDs, which are also valid alternatives to a REAL ID.

Travelers who cannot provide one of the approved IDs will likely be subject to delays and additional screenings, and may not be admitted past the security checkpoint. You can view the full list of approved IDs on the TSA website.

Under the new regulations, citizens will also need a REAL ID to access federal government buildings, military installations and nuclear power plants.

REAL ID requirements differ by state. In Massachusetts, residents can acquire a REAL ID by providing a birth certificate or passport and verifying their social security number with a social security card or W-2. They also must show proof of Massachusetts residence, such as a lease, mortgage, or utility bill.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Residents can start the REAL ID application process online by visiting the RMVs Online Service Center and scheduling an in-person appointment at a RMV Service Center of AAA branch (for AAA members).

The latest from MassLive

Read the original article on MassLive.
NEWARK, N.J. (PIX11)  Anyone traveling on a domestic flight in the U.S. must have a REAL ID or face extra security measures as of Wednesday.

The mandate comes as Newark Liberty International Airport deals with sweeping delays and cancellations over staffing shortages and equipment issues. As of Wednesday morning, 25 flights have been delayed and another 14 were canceled, according to Newarks flight tracker.

How to track flight delays, cancellations at Newark Airport

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some air traffic controllers took leaves of absence after radars and communications went out for planes over Newark last Monday, according to the National Air Traffic Controllers Association. New Jersey Rep. Josh Gottheimers office said Newark Airport is staffed with just one-third of the 61 personnel necessary in air traffic control.

The federal government is offering an incentive to get the most seasoned air traffic controllers to stay on the job.

These are the best-equipped controllers that we have and so Ive offered them a 20% upfront bonus of their salary to get them to stay on the job not retire, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said.

More Local News

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Duffy plans to meet with the airlines that serve Newark Airport. Runway construction has also been causing delays, but thats expected to be finished by June to help the flow of planes.

Travelers who dont have a REAL ID can use their passport or tribal ID to get past TSA, according to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. To see other accepted forms of identification, click here.

Erin Pflaumer is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered both local and national news since 2018. She joined PIX11 in 2023. See more of her 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 PIX11.
PLATTSBURGH  Starting today May 7, a REAL ID-compliant license or another accepted form of identification, such as a passport, will be required for all domestic flights in the United States.

The bottom line with REAL ID is if people are going to be flying, theyre going to need to get it, Plattsburgh International Airport Director Chris Kreig said Tuesday.

The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 but the deadline for implementation kept getting pushed back. This time, though, the May 7th deadline is set in stone and those flying within the United States will need it before boarding a flight.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kreig said hes unaware if there will be a grace period for people to adjust to the REAL ID requirement. However, he said everyone should prepare like there wont be one.

If I was somebody thats traveling, that does any kind of traveling whatsoever, get the REAL ID, he said.

LOOK FOR STAR/FLAG

According to the New York state DMVs website, the REAL ID Act establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver licenses, permits and ID cards.

The Act also prohibits federal agencies, like the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), from accepting cards for official purposes from states that do not meet these standards.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

New Yorkers can tell if their license is REAL ID compliant if it has a star or a flag on it. If it does not, then it is not compliant.

More information on REAL ID and what documents are needed to get it can be found here: https://dmv.ny.gov/driver-license/enhanced-or-real-id.

KNOWN IN ADVANCE

Kreig said he is not worried the new requirement will cause too many issues. He said PBG has had posters up for three years to let the public know this was coming.

Theres going to be a change. Any change is going to have its share of turbulence, if you will. I expect no different with this. There are going to be those individuals that are going to show up, and are going to potentially have problems, and they are going to potentially be denied boarding, he said.

Weve had posters up in the airport now for, going on, three years. and every time the dates change, weve changed the date on them.
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  Its something that has been talked about for years, but beginning Wednesday, air travelers will be required to show whats called a REAL ID when going through TSA. This rule isnt just for major airports, but for small airports such as Sioux City as well.

The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005, based on findings of the 9/11 Commission that showed the TSA needed to raise the baseline for security on state-issued IDs. After being delayed several times, officials say they are committed to the enforcement coming on Wednesday.

May 7 is only a deadline if youre traveling on May 7, TSA regional spokesperson Mark Howell said. Were calling it an enforcement date. So, really, your deadline for REAL ID is going to be the next time youre traveling or the next time youre going to visit a federal building that requires a REAL ID to enter.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The way to know if you have a REAL ID is to look at the top right corner of your license, and if you see a star, youre good to go.

Story continues below

Howell said the differences between a REAL ID and a legacy ID are different.

The REAL ID has a number of additional security features on it, like holographic, photo inlays, things like that, that make it nearly impossible to replicate or counterfeit, Howell said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Those without REAL IDs will face inconvenience and delays, which is why officials ask those travelers to get to the airport three hours early.

Theres a potential were going to have to do a full identity verification, which can take some time, Howell said.

TSA officials report that so far, 81% of travelers either have the REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification.

On Tuesday, the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that travelers who dont have a REAL ID will be able to fly after the REAL ID deadline hits, but they will have to provide an additional form of identification, such as a passport.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the three Siouxland states, a REAL ID is distinguished by the star on the upper right of your ID.

Sioux Gateway Airport told KCAU 9 that they do not anticipate big problems since they only have two flights per day. Officials at the airport said that they have already began watching for REAL IDs ahead of Wednesdays enforcement date.

So, for the majority of the passengers that we have randomly checked, a lot of them do have the REAL ID, Sioux Gateway Airport manager Alvin Lorenzo said. There probably was one or two that did not that we know of, but theyve been reminded that they do need that REAL ID on their card.

Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem was before members of Congress on Tuesday to set the stage for the ID rollout.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Floyd Blvd. and 4th St. bridges to close over summer

So, we will make sure that it is as seamless as possible, Noem said. And the travelers will get to stay on their intended itinerary, but we are telling people that this law will be enforced and it will allow us to know individuals in the country who they are and that theyre authorized to travel.

Noem told a Congressional panel that 81% of travelers already have IDs that comply with the REAL ID requirements.

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.
The time has come. Travelers flying within the US starting Wednesday must use a state-issued ID that is REAL ID compliant or be subject to further screening.

Things seemed to be operating relatively smoothly at a sampling of US airports Wednesday morning. Signs about the REAL ID requirements are posted, and TSA representatives at some airports were ushering people without REAL IDs to separate lines for enhanced screening.

Lines outside some states departments of motor vehicles may be a different story, however, as people who havent received a compliant ID try to catch up. In downtown Chicago, a line Wednesday morning to get into a walk-in supercenter dedicated to issuing REAL IDs wrapped around a city block  though it had shortened significantly by the afternoon.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

REAL IDs, aside from being used to board domestic flights, also will be required to enter secure federal facilities. REAL IDs are marked with a star in the upper right-hand corner, no matter what state you live in. The 9/11 Commission recommended the new standard for enhanced security.

Real ID reminders were posted at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York City on Wednesday. - Kylie Cooper/Reuters

State-issued drivers licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports, the Transportation Security Administration explained. However, if passengers show up Wednesday without a REAL ID, they will still be able to fly but may face additional screening, officials said this week. And air travelers can show alternative forms of ID, including a passport, a Veteran Health Identification Card, and other items.

How things are going at the airports

At Philadelphia International Airport Wednesday morning, the REAL ID implementation went smoother than even some federal officials were expecting.

The traveling public was great, they responded, they were prepared, everything went as well as it could be expected, said Gerardo Spero, TSA federal security director for Pennsylvania and Delaware.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Security lines at the airport moved quickly, with relatively few passengers diverted for additional screening because they did not have a REAL ID. Many passengers opted to use their passports  an acceptable alternative for flights  as their ID.

I dont think weve ever seen quite as many passports, certainly not for domestic flights, Spero said.

A passenger in Philadelphia, Michelle Raczynski, said she made sure to get her REAL ID a few years ago because she travels frequently for work, but she wasnt surprised others were left scrambling.

It has not been well broadcast. It has not really been publicized. They could have done a better job at that, said Raczynski, before passing through security without problem.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At Atlantas Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, the worlds busiest airport, officials initially had a separate security lane Wednesday morning for those without a REAL ID. But that extra line was eliminated mid-morning because so few travelers were without one  and TSA officers will now do additional screenings as needed after passengers arrive at regular document checkpoints, airport lead transportation security officer Alexis Pickerel said.

And at North Carolinas Charlotte Douglas International Airport, staff were prepped with more security lanes than usual and additional staff to help travelers at the REAL ID deadline  but for the most part, travelers had the identification they needed and moved smoothly through security, a CNN crew saw.

The relative order at airports may depend on the state and how many residents obtained REAL IDs ahead of Wednesdays deadline. Georgia and Florida, for example, say more than 99% of their residents drivers licenses or ID cards are REAL ID compliant.

Alabama, however, had only 33% REAL ID compliance, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Capt. Jeremy Burkett said. North Carolinas REAL ID compliance, meanwhile, was at 52%, state transportation department spokesperson John Brockwell said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Illinois REAL ID compliance rate is below 50%, Max Walczyk, spokesperson for Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, told CNN. Illinois was late in offering REAL IDs, in 2019, compared to states like Indiana, which began in 2010, and Iowa, which began in 2013, he said.

At Chicagos OHare International Airport, traveler Jonathan Washkevich did not have a REAL ID, but arrived two and a half hours before his flight to Tampa on Wednesday with other documents, hoping they would ease his passage through the amplified screening he knew was coming, he told CNN affiliate WLS.

Hopefully I get through the enhanced screening pretty quickly, he said. I have my drivers license that has a hole in it. I have my temporary ID that they just issued me because my REAL ID is in the mail, hopefully. (I also have my) Social Security card, a birth certificate, mail, and also a paycheck.

For the nationwide picture, the Department of Homeland Security put it this way in a Wednesday news release: Most travelers wont even notice a difference because 81% of travelers are already REAL ID compliant.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Heres what to expect if youre flying after Wednesdays deadline.

Can I fly after Wednesday if I dont have a REAL ID?

Wednesday is not the deadline for obtaining a REAL ID  its just the date the new requirement for air travel goes into effect. People can still get a REAL ID after May 7.

Additionally, passengers without one will not be turned away at airports, Steve Lorincz, TSAs deputy executive assistant administrator for security operations, told CNN.

We will process you (and you) will not be turned away, Lorincz said. It might take some additional time, but were going to do it efficiently. We are fully staffed at all locations across the country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Still, Jana Tidwell, with AAA Mid-Atlantic, is urging those who dont have REAL IDs to get them now, so they arent hit with delays or other issues during peak travel times. We are just a couple weeks away from Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer. Summer travel is going to ramp up, Tidwell said.

Wednesdays deadline to enforce the 2005 REAL ID act was pushed back several times.

The 20-year-old law requires state drivers licenses to meet certain federal requirements to be used for boarding a plane or accessing federal facilities requiring identification. The enhanced features in a REAL ID include anti-counterfeiting technology. About 19% percent of people flying nationwide do not have them yet, the TSA says.

The deadline left many confused travelers scrambling to comply ahead of holidays and the summer months.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The enforcement is now happening amid flight delays and cancellations at Newark Airport, a key hub in New Jersey that serves the busy New York area.

At the Philadelphia International Airport, passengers that do not have a REAL ID were given information on the requirements by TSA officers. - Danny Freeman/CNN

Be prepared

The TSA on Tuesday reminded travelers that enforcement of REAL ID was to start Wednesday.

Plan ahead, arrive early, and arrive prepared, the agency said in a post on X.

Travelers can find if they are REAL ID ready by using the TSAs interactive tool.

Well have staff in front of all our checkpoints to help and direct our customers as they transit through the security process, Lorincz said.

The agency will work with states, airlines and airports toward an eventual time where enough people are showing up at airports with the correct ID, a TSA spokesperson told CNN.

What is still accepted at TSA checkpoints?

Adults 18 and over must show valid identification at airport checkpoints to travel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Other forms of identification that will still be accepted at TSA checkpoints include a US passport or passport card, a permanent resident card, a border crossing card and a Veteran Health Identification Card, among others.

Those who do not have a valid form of identification may be asked to complete an identity verification. Once a travelers identity is confirmed, they will be allowed to enter the checkpoint where they may be subject to additional screening, the TSA says.

A line outside the REAL ID "supercenter" in downtown Chicago wrapped around the block Wednesday morning. - CNN

What states are doing

Required documentation and the cost of the ID varies from state to state and each has its own system for issuing them. The TSA links to each states department of motor vehicles to explain what residents may need to get one.

DMVs are working really, really hard to make sure that were getting people in so they can get their REAL IDs as we continue to move forward, Lorincz said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But lines at some DMVs have been long, potentially discouraging people from staying and getting the ID. In North Carolina, Elena Campbell had made several visits to her DMV to try to get a REAL ID, only to leave because of long wait times, she told CNN Tuesday on her fourth visit.

They dont make it easy on you, she said. Were just out here doing what were supposed to do.

In preparation for the transition, Californias Department of Motor Vehicles is offering extended hours and Saturday appointments to residents looking to get a REAL ID.

The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles indicates on its website that officials are seeing an increased volume in offices due to the REAL ID implementation.

The Oklahoma agency that issues drivers license warns on its website: Its time to get your REAL ID. No, really.

It reminds residents who are traveling soon to apply for a REAL ID at least four weeks early in part because IDs are mailed within one to two weeks after a visit.

CNNs Alexandra Skores, Whitney Wild, Jason Morris, Dianne Gallagher, Andi Babineau and Maxime Tamsett contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
REAL ID requirements for those flying within the United States begin Wednesday after years of delays.

The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005, after the 9/11 Commission recommended that the government redo the security standards for identification.

It was supposed to go into effect in 2008, but had been delayed several times.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Heres what travelers need to know.

Who needs a Real ID?

Beginning on May 7, anyone 18 or older will need a drivers license or state photo ID card to pass through an airport checkpoint if they do not have a passport, Department of Defense ID, a trusted travel card or several other options for identification.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You also need a Real ID to visit federal facilities, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

If you dont have travel plans in the near future, AAA suggested waiting until after May 7 so those who urgently need the IDs can get them.

How do I know if my ID complies with the law?

Typically they will have a star and or a flag and will say enhanced according to the Department of Homeland Security.

Some licenses or ID cards may be marked Not for REAL ID purposes, so they will not be able to be used to fly.

The good news for Georgians? The Georgia Department of Driver Services says that 99% of Georgians already have a Real ID. You can confirm by looking in the upper right hand corner of your ID for a black or gold star.

How do I get a Real ID?

It depends on the state, but at minimum, according to the Transportation Security Administration, you will need documentation that shows your full legal name, date of birth, social security number, two proofs of addresses for your main residence and proof of your lawful status.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You will then visit a DMV to apply for the identification card.

Once you apply, you will get a temporary ID, but that will not be accepted by the TSA. The Real ID card will be sent in the mail in about 10 days.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
If you haven't updated your driver's license at the Texas Department of Public Safety office, you might want to consider getting it done soon.

The deadline for REAL ID enforcement is May 7, and there could be consequences for not meeting the deadline.

You might be asking what a REAL ID is. Is it just renewing your driver's license?

Here's what you need to know before the May deadline.

When is the REAL ID deadline?

Beginning on May 7, the Transportation Security Administration will require REAL IDs for adult travelers flying domestically within the United States.

Can you get a REAL ID after May 7?

According to TSA, obtaining a REAL ID is possible after the May 7 deadline. While the deadline marks the requirement for a REAL ID for certain activities, such as domestic air travel, you can still apply for one and receive it at a later date.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you do not have a REAL ID by the enforcement date, you will need an alternative form of acceptable identification for air travel purposes.

What does a REAL ID look like in Texas?

If you look at your current Texas driver's license, it should have a gold star at the top-right corner of the ID. Your current Texas driver's license or ID is REAL ID-compliant if it has a gold star in the top right corner. If it doesnt have a gold star, youll get the gold star on your next renewal or request a replacement card.

Texas REAL ID. By May 7, 2025, all states must comply by REAL ID standards.

How to get a REAL ID in Texas

According to Texas.Gov, you can apply for a new REAL ID-compliant Texas driver's license or ID in person at a Texas DPS office. You may be eligible to renew your existing Texas driver's license or ID online. You can still use your current, unexpired Texas driver's license or ID to drive and for non-federal ID purposes. When its time to renew your driver's license or ID, youll get a REAL ID-compliant one.

Will I be able to fly if I don't have a REAL ID?

If you show up at the airport without a REAL ID driver's license, a passport, or another acceptable document to present at the TSA checkpoint, you may experience delays, undergo additional screening, and risk being denied entry to the security checkpoint.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the TSA, there is an alternative compliance mechanism if you show up at the airport without a REAL ID.

"The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes collecting information such as your name and current address to confirm your identity," the agency's website says. "If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint, where you may be subject to additional screening."

Does a REAL ID replace a passport?

REAL IDs work for domestic travel, but cant replace a passport for international flights. Passports are still required for venturing beyond U.S. borders.

Do children need a REAL ID to travel domestically?

According to the Department of Homeland Security, children under 18 will not need a REAL ID to travel within the U.S. However, adults will need to have a REAL ID in hand.

What are the alternatives to a REAL ID?

TSA-approved alternatives include:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

U.S. passport

U.S. passport card

DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)

U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents

Border crossing card

An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe

HSPD-12 PIV card

Foreign government-issued passport

Canadian provincial drivers license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card

Transportation worker identification credential

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)

U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential

Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: REAL ID Texas deadline is here. How to check if you have one
Chinese President Xi Jinping inspects the guard of honor during a grand welcome ceremony at the Vnukovo Airport in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Xi arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

MOSCOW, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said here Wednesday that China and Russia have found a right path of state-to-state interactions between neighboring major countries.

He made the remarks in a written statement upon his arrival in Moscow for a state visit to the country and attendance at the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War.

Xi noted that the two sides, as good neighbors that cannot be moved away, true friends who share weal and woe, and good partners of mutual achievement, have forged a spirit of strategic coordination for a new era, which features permanent good-neighborly friendship, comprehensive strategic coordination and mutually beneficial cooperation.

The independent, mature and resilient bilateral relationship, Xi said, not only brings great benefits to the two peoples, but also makes important contributions to maintaining global strategic stability and promoting an equal and orderly multipolar world.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War and the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, he noted.

China and Russia, both major countries of the world and permanent members of the UN Security Council, will join hands to safeguard the victorious outcome of World War II, firmly safeguard the UN-centered international system and the international order underpinned by international law, resolutely oppose hegemonism and power politics, practice true multilateralism, and promote the building of a more just and equitable global governance system, Xi said.

The Chinese president also said that during the visit he will have in-depth communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin on bilateral relations, practical cooperation as well as major international and regional issues of common concern, which will inject strong impetus into the development of the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era.

Noting that he will attend Russia's May 9th Victory Day celebrations again after a decade, Xi said he looks forward to working with leaders of other countries and the Russian people to deeply commemorate the martyrs who heroically sacrificed their lives for the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War, and send out a strong voice of the times to safeguard international fairness and justice.

Xi's plane was escorted by Russian Air Force aircraft after it entered the country's airspace.

When Xi arrived at the Vnukovo Airport in Moscow, he was warmly welcomed by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova and other senior government officials. 

Chinese President Xi Jinping is warmly welcomed by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova and other senior government officials at the Vnukovo Airport in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Xi arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Xi arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Xi arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Xi arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

Members of an honor guard line up at the airport in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

Members of a military band are pictured at the airport in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Xi arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War. (Xinhua/Bai Xueqi)

Members of an honor guard are pictured at the airport in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2025. Xi arrived here on Wednesday to pay a state visit to Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War. (Xinhua/Dai Tianfang)
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Wednesday is the first day that airports across the U.S. will require a REAL ID to fly, but it appears to be smooth sailing so far at Portland International Airport.

The requirement comes from legislation following 9/11 and states that travellers must now show a REAL ID. Airport security will also accept passports, military IDs, tribal IDs, a permanent resident card, or even a foreign-government-issued passport.

As of May 7, Oregon is at 38.1% compliance with 1.4 million REAL ID credential holders. Another 46% have a non-compliant license, permit or identification marked, Not for REAL ID Act.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

READ MORE: Dont have a REAL ID? Everything you need to know about flying after the deadline

According to the Oregon DMV, the TSA said people without a REAL ID will most likely be able to get on their flights, but should arrive early to make sure they get through.

Chris Crabb with the DMV also said people without a REAL ID can face additional screening. As of Wednesday morning, many airports are reporting wait times of just a few minutes.

They will probably have delayed lines, she said. And again, that depends if, you know, if a couple people show up on Wednesday without a real ID, probably not a big deal for the lines. If 10,000 people show up on Wednesday, that line is going to be significantly longer.

An example of a Real ID in Oregon, March 18, 2025 (ODOT) FILE  A sample copy of a Washington driver license is shown at the Washington state Department of Licensing office in Lacey, Wash., on June 22, 2018. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren, File) FILE  In this April 6, 2016, file photo, a sign at the federal courthouse in Tacoma, Wash., is shown to inform visitors of the federal governments REAL ID act, which requires state drivers licenses and ID cards to have security enhancements and be issued to people who can prove theyre legally in the United States. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren, File)

It can take up to three weeks after your DMV appointment to receive your REAL ID card in the mail. Crabb said the DMV has seen record crowds as people try to get their cards in time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

DONT MISS: REAL ID enforcement starts this week: 5 things to know

In the past, TSA said they would not accept temporary cards as a form of REAL ID. But with the deadline days away, Crabb said it might be worth a try.

If you are having a flight this week and youve got your real ID and you have that temporary card, were encouraging people to go ahead and bring that and bring your ID that has the punch card, something that just kind of shows that you have made the effort to get through this line, she said.

However, Crabb said travelers should absolutely bring an alternate form of REAL ID in addition to their temporary cards just in case.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
LONDON, Ky. (FOX 56)  Multiple eastern Kentucky city officials have resigned in the heat of a deadly shooting investigation involving its police department.

On Friday, May 2, Mayor Randall Weddle told FOX 56 that London City Councilmember Holly Little, Chief of Police Jerry Hollon, and City Clerk Katelin McPeek resigned.

RELATED:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Weddle was expected to address the resignations in a special-called city council meeting on Monday, May 5. He told McPeek shed be missed, and the now acting police chief, Bobby Day, gave an update on the Kentucky State Police investigation of the shooting death of Douglas Harless.

I think that the majority of the public, you know, they need some answers, and I felt good about the response he gave tonight, Weddle said.

However, the reasoning for their resignations still wasnt clear.

On Wednesday, FOX 56 obtained Littles, Hollons, and McPeeks resignation letters.

Jerry Hollon resignation (City of London)

Katelin McPeeks resignation (City of London)

Although this was a difficult decision, but given the current political environment, I believe its the right move at this time, Hollon wrote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

McPeek wrote that shed resign as city clerk in light of a rare opportunity.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

Given the current climate and the potential this new position offers, I feel it is in the best interest of myself and my family, and I cannot pass it up at this time, McPeek said.

Little did not explain.

Holly Littles resignation letter, provided by the City of London.

However, Weddle told FOX 56 that this is Littles second attempt to resign. Her resignation was made official during Mondays city council meeting, marking the second vacancy this year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Further, Hollon hinted at looming budget cuts within the London Police Department.

As you are aware, I already have a law enforcement retirement to rely on but most other officers at the department do not. With the possibility of budget cuts, hopefully my departure will free up city funds to prevent another officer from losing their job, Hollon said.

Although high tensions in London werent the main reason for McPeeks departure, she did hint at the situation in her letter to the mayor and council.

Read more of the latest Kentucky news

The nature of politics often brings about disagreements, something Ive experienced directly. While these moments can sometimes lead to growth and at other times present difficulties, I sincerely hope that throughout any trials weve navigated together, my actions have consistently demonstrated fairness and an absence of bias towards each of you, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Frustration has brewed among citizens and councilmembers alike as outbursts and police escorts have popularly marked the monthly city council meetings since the December shooting. Petitions have even urged the purge of all the sitting members positions.

Harless was fatally shot by London police just days before Christmas 2024 when officers arrived at his Vanzant Road home to serve a search warrant, investigators say.

For the latest information on the investigation, 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 FOX 56 News.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Nessabel Western Boot store on Kansas Citys east side was recently broken into with thieves stealing clothes and shoes.

The owner, Aneyda Herrera, said that a week later, they spotted their stolen items for sale on Facebook Marketplace.

City of Gardner gives residents at apartment complex 48 hours to move

We recognize our merchandise because there are no other stores with the same kind of merchandise that we have. So my daughter was scrolling on Facebook and she found that and sent me a text, Is this our stuff? Are these our boots? Those were our boots. Are those our jeans? Herrera explained.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Herrera believes the items for sale were stolen from her store on April 28.

You can see the person. You know who it is, but you cant do anything. Its so frustrating, Herrera said.

The break-in was reported to the Kansas City Police Department.

Surveillance footage shows the thieves using a car with an attached chain to knock the door down.

We have to pay for the door, which was more than $5,000. It has to come from our pockets. Insurance doesnt cover that. So its a lot of money, Herrera explained.

It wasnt the first time the store had been broken into. Herrera believes more police patrols in the area could help.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I know its probably partly because of the area were in. But I dont think this is supposed to happen, if the police concentrated more here in this area, Herrera said.

A spokesperson for KCPD tells FOX4 that detectives have seen items appear on Facebook Marketplace before and can use this information as an additional investigative tool for holding criminals accountable. Much like witness statements or surveillance footage, it can be used to provide leads so investigators can make arrests.

If you believe you engaged in a transaction that involved a stolen item, or if you think an item for sale on Facebook Marketplace is stolen, you should report it to local law enforcement.

Lenexa police have worked on multiple cases involving stolen items for sale on Facebook Marketplace.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lenexa Police Public Information Officer Danny Chavez said there are a few red flags you need to look out for.

Trust your gut. Does it look too good to be true? Do you know if this particular item in the condition that it appears to be would retail or even be sold used for a price thats significantly more than whats being asked? A lot of times well see stolen items really marked down rather cheaply for what they should be, Chavez said.

Dont ever be afraid to ask questions. Youre the buyer here, so dont be afraid to ask questions like when they bought it. Ask for additional photographs, pictures of receipts, bills of sale, anything like that, Chavez added.

New detours starting for 69 Express project in Overland Park

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chavez said that, when possible, you should always meet a buyer or seller in the parking lot of a police station to conduct the transaction. Avoid home deliveries or remote pickups when you can.

Some other tips from Lenexa PD:

Check the sellers profile: Be cautious if the account was recently created or lacks detail.

Document the sale: Create a bill of sale or take screenshots of the posting and communication. This can help protect you if something is later reported stolen.

Avoid risk items: Be extra cautious with electronics, designer goods, tools, bikes, and vehicle parts as they are frequently stolen and flipped.

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.
SIOUX CITY, IA (KCAU)  Sioux Citys Sunnybrook Hope Center is the recipient of a record breaking donation of more than $19,000 from Subaru of America, which will help provide meals for local families.

This marks the fifth year in a row the center has been selected by Jensen Subaru for the Share the Love program. As part of the program, car buyers are given the opportunity to dedicate a donation that helps provide more than 90,000 meals to local families.

Dogs found in red-tagged Sioux City home; Teenagers may face charges for fake dog rescue

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tina Stroud, the executive director with the Sunnybrook Hope Center told KCAU 9 that the event goes a long way in helping alleviate food insecurity in Siouxland.

The impact of this will just be a ripple effect, providing almost 95,000 meals to locals Siouxlanders who are really struggling with a source at the grocery store, Stroud said.

Since the partnership began, the Subaru Share the Love donations have provided over 500,000 meals to local communities

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.
PALOS HEIGHTS, Ill  The remains of a Chicago man, who was previously reported missing, were found in the Cal-Sag Channel between the Southwest Highway and Archer Avenue bridges, police said.

Joshua Blair, 37, was last seen at his Chicago home. His car and personal belongings were discovered at Harlem Avenue and College Drive at 4:03 a.m. on April 29.

According to the Palos Heights Police Department, officers conducting an aerial search of the Cal-Sag Channel located Blairs body on May 5 at 1:30 p.m.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

His body was transported to the Cook County Medical Examiners Office, where he was identified by family following a postmortem exam.

Our thoughts are with Joshuas family and loved ones during this unimaginable time, the department said in a statement. We extend our deepest condolences and stand ready to provide them with the support they may need in the days ahead.

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.
The remains of a kayaker who went missing in Oregon have been identified

The same day, local authorities announced that eight bodies have been recovered from rivers in Multnomah County this spring

"The number is not unusual, though it is tragic," the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office said

The same day the remains of a missing kayaker were identified, authorities in Oregon shared that eight bodies have been recovered from rivers in Multnomah County this spring.

Since April 1, 2025, eight bodies have been recovered. Compared to April and May 2024, six bodies were recovered, the Multnomah County Sheriffs Office announced in a press release on Monday, May 5. The number is not unusual, though it is tragic.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Authorities said that the medical examiner continues to investigate the cause of death for those who died, but the majority of the eight bodies recovered this April and May are the result of drowning caused by suicide.

The sheriffs office added that it has no reason to believe the deaths are the result of suspicious activity or that the bodies, which were recovered from the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, are connected.

Related: Teen Girl Died After Falling Down a 100-Foot Cliff While Trying to Save Her Pet Dog, Inquest Hears

George Rose/Getty The Willamette River in Eugene, Ore. The Willamette River in Eugene, Ore.

On the same day, the Clackamas County Medical Examiners Office confirmed the identity of the missing kayaker was Marcelus Angelo Rodriguez, a 20-year-old man from California who went missing on Saturday, April 12.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That evening, Rodriguez went kayaking on the Willamette River and was later seen in distress, according to 911 calls received just before 11:00 p.m. local time, the Clackamas County Sheriffs Office said in a press release posted on April 17. "A short time later, witnesses stated the individual, a lone adult male, was seen going over the falls and did not resurface," police wrote.

More than two weeks later, Rodriguezs body was recovered from the Willamette River, authorities confirmed.

On Sunday, May 4, officers were dispatched after reports came in about a body along the shore of the river, just north of Meldrum Bar Park in Gladstone, according the sheriff's office. The deputies then found the body in a difficult to reach location along the shoreline.

The Marine Unit was able to access the location using boats and recover Marcelus, officials continued, adding that family notifications have been completed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Related: Girl, 10, Found Dead After Being Swept Away by Floodwaters While Walking Home from School with Sister

Clackamas County Sheriff's Office Marcelus Angelo Rodriguez Marcelus Angelo Rodriguez

The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office had no other information to add. The Multnomah County Medical Examiner's Office and Clackamas County Sheriff's Office did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's requests for comment.

Per reports, the recovery is one of many. According to OregonLive, six bodies have been found near bridges and Swan Island in the Willamette River since April 13, while two bodies were recently recovered from the Columbia River.

Multiple factors contribute to the discovery of bodies in the spring time, the Multnomah County Sheriffs Office said on Monday, pointing to increasing water temperatures, the rate of water currents and a swell of activity on the water.

Getty The Columbia River along Ainsworth State Park in Cascade Locks, Ore. The Columbia River along Ainsworth State Park in Cascade Locks, Ore.

The PEOPLE App is now available in the Apple App Store! Download it now for the most binge-worthy celeb content, exclusive video clips, astrology updates and more!

After Rodriguezs disappearance, his family said that they were truly devastated in a statement shared with the Clackamas County Sheriffs Office. They also issued a warning to others to be aware of their surroundings

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

NEVER enter this river without wearing a life jacket or, at the very least, exercising extreme caution, the family continued,  as the forces of nature can quickly become overwhelming and deadly.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 or go to 988lifeline.org.



Read the original article on People
Photo illustration by Getty Images.

A bill that saves Montana renters money in unused application fees was signed into law by Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte.

In a statement Monday, House Minority Leader Katie Sullivan, D-Missoula, described it as one of the most significant policies enacted for renters in the last four years.

Sponsored by Rep. Kelly Kortum, D-Bozeman, House Bill 311 requires property managers to return rental application fees when they arent used to run the application.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kortum brought the bill forward to address predatory business practices he saw in Bozeman, according to a news release from House Democrats.

Co-sponsors included Democrats and Republicans in the House and Senate.

The news release said property managers can harvest hundreds of dollars in application fees from prospective renters without intending to award a unit to any of them.

Every day, Montanans pay rental application fees but dont get the apartment, Kortum said at a hearing in support of the bill. Why are they paying for a service they never receive?

An estimated 31% of Montana households are renters, or 137,485, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition. Of those, it said 22% earn at or below the area median income.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But renters can end up paying hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in application fees in a de facto housing lottery, as they look for a place to live, the news release said.

In a story last month, Realtor.com estimated the cost of application fees at $35 to $75 per person in the nation, although it said amounts range depending on location.

House Democrats described HB 311 as a priority bill that will make finding a home much cheaper.

In a statement, Sullivan, a co-sponsor, said the bill shows Democrats are delivering to make housing more affordable in Montana.

Getting a roof over your head should not be a raffle or a lottery, Sullivan said. HB 311 would end the housing lottery and stop landlords from harvesting exploitative fees from hardworking Montanans.

The bill passed the legislature with bipartisan supportpassed the legislature with bipartisan support, 68-29 in the House and 34-14 in the Senate.
Palestinians work at a site of an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City, on May 7, 2025. At least 40 Palestinians were killed and dozens of others wounded in Israeli attacks in Gaza City on Wednesday, according to Palestinian medical sources. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

GAZA, May 7 (Xinhua) -- At least 40 Palestinians were killed and dozens of others wounded in Israelis attacks in Gaza City on Wednesday, according to Palestinian medical sources.

Eyewitnesses told Xinhua that an Israeli drone fired at least one missile at a restaurant and a market in the al-Rimal neighborhood in central Gaza City.

Medical sources told Xinhua that at least 25 people were killed in the airstrike, while dozens of others were wounded, most of them in critical condition.

The sources added that the injured people and bodies of the victims were taken to hospital, noting that the death toll is expected to rise.

Meanwhile, Gaza's civil defense authority said that at least 15 Palestinians were killed and 10 others wounded in two Israeli airstrikes on a school housing displaced people east of Gaza City.

Mahmoud Basal, a spokesperson for the civil defense, said the Israeli army targeted Al-Karama School, which houses dozens of displaced families in the Al-Tuffah neighborhood, in two separate attacks.

Basal said that among the victims were children and women. All of them were transferred to the Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City.

The Hamas-run government media office in Gaza reported that journalist Nour al-Din Abdo was among those killed, raising the total number of journalists killed since Oct. 7, 2023, to 213.

In a statement, the office condemned the Israeli army's killing of Palestinian journalists and called on the international community to "condemn the occupation's crimes ... and bring the occupation's criminals to justice."

There was no immediate comment from the Israeli army on the airstrikes.

On March 18, Israel resumed its military operations in the enclave. At least 2,545 Palestinians have been killed and 6,856 others injured since Israel renewed its intensive strikes, bringing the total death toll since Oct. 2023 to 52,653, and injuries to 118,897, Gaza-based health authorities said on Wednesday. 

Palestinians are seen at a market targeted in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City, on May 7, 2025. At least 40 Palestinians were killed and dozens of others wounded in Israeli attacks in Gaza City on Wednesday, according to Palestinian medical sources. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Ambulances are seen near a site of an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City, on May 7, 2025. At least 40 Palestinians were killed and dozens of others wounded in Israeli attacks in Gaza City on Wednesday, according to Palestinian medical sources. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Palestinians work at a site of an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City, on May 7, 2025. At least 40 Palestinians were killed and dozens of others wounded in Israeli attacks in Gaza City on Wednesday, according to Palestinian medical sources. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Palestinians work at a site of an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City, on May 7, 2025. At least 40 Palestinians were killed and dozens of others wounded in Israeli attacks in Gaza City on Wednesday, according to Palestinian medical sources. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

An ambulance is seen near a site of an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City, on May 7, 2025. At least 40 Palestinians were killed and dozens of others wounded in Israeli attacks in Gaza City on Wednesday, according to Palestinian medical sources. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)
There was once a time when even if you couldnt buy a home, you knew that you could always rent one.

But even that modicum of certainty is under threat under this disastrous Labour Government because across the country, renting is going to become a lot more unstable.

Last month, Serco, a private contractor working for the Home Office, sent a missive to landlords offering them five years guaranteed rent, repairs, bills and council tax all paid for.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The catch? The tenants would be illegal migrants, housed while their asylum applications are being processed and possibly after they have been granted the right to remain.

The landlords for this scheme are being recruited in the North West, Midlands and the East of England. There was no mention of London and the South East in the plans. A two-tier property market, you might say.

The effect of this is already being felt. Tenants are saying that their landlords have already informed them that they want their property back having succumbed to a better offer from the Government. Landlords are phoning into my radio show describing calls from third parties offering money for properties that can be turned into a house in multiple occupation (HMOs)  so migrants can rent a private room but share bathrooms and kitchens.

Some are thankfully rejecting these incentives. One landlord told me that under no circumstances would he rent his property to migrants despite being offered as much as 1,500 a month for a house that he currently rents for 1,000. And in councils controlled by Reform UK, there will almost certainly be pushback against this policy. They may challenge the Government under planning restrictions or changes to the use of individual properties.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The rental market is now a ticking timebomb. There are already 8.5 million people that need housing in this country. But this Home Office-endorsed endeavour is almost certain to push that number higher as ordinary Britons are pushed out of their homes.

The Reform rout last week proved that Labour as a party of the working class is dead and buried; Appearing to put migrants ahead of ordinary British people will only drive home this point.

Mike Graham is host of Morning Glory on Talk every weekday morning from 6 - 10am

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.
Rep. Carlos Gimenez, R-Fla., joins NewsNation to discuss mounting concerns over Chinas growing threat to U.S. national security. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent highlighted the lack of communication between the two countries, while DHS Secretary Kristi Noem warned about Chinas ability to disrupt U.S. infrastructure. Lawmakers also examined Chinas activities in Cuba, just 90 miles from Florida, amid fears of a developing intelligence base near U.S. shores.

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.
CHICAGO  Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi announced Wednesday that he is entering the race to succeed retiring U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin.

Krishnamoorthi announced the Senate bid in a social media post shared early Thursday morning.

U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly enters race to replace Durbin

Ive spent my life standing up to bullies like Donald Trump and Elon Musk. Now Im running for the U.S. Senate to make America work for working people, Krishnamoorthi said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Krishnamoorthi, who was raised in Peoria and has represented Illinois 8th congressional district since 2017.

Senator Dick Durbin is a titan who will go down as one of the most effective and dedicated public servants in Illinois history. I am deeply humbled by the encouragement I have received from friends, family members, and community leaders encouraging me, a fellow son of downstate, to run for the U.S. Senate, Krishnamoorthi said in a news release announcing his bid.

Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton announces bid for U.S. Senate

Krishnamoorthi joins two others vying to fill the seat the retiring senator will leave behind.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Tuesday, U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly announced her bid for Senate. The announcement came just days after Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, who has already received endorsements from Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker and Sen. Tammy Duckworth, announced her campaign.

A day after Kelly announced her bid, U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi announced that was also entering the race to succeed Durbin.

Durbin, the Senate minority whip and the longest serving senator in Illinois history, announced that he would not seek a sixth term in office back in April.

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.
May 7NEWPORT TWP.  State Rep. Alec Ryncavage on Wednesday said an agreement has been reached to preserve the Local Resource Manufacturing Tax Credit for Nanticoke and Newport Township.

Rep. Ryncavage, R-Hanover Township, said the decision came following key discussions ahead of Wednesday's House Finance Committee meeting.

Discussions with Rep. Ryncavage and the bill's stakeholders Wednesday morning prompted an agreement on a path forward to protect the critical tax incentive that he said supports future development and family-sustaining jobs in Northeast Pennsylvania.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Following productive conversations, we've agreed there is a path forward to save this vital tax credit," Rep. Ryncavage said. "It's important not only for attracting future investment in Nanticoke and Newport Township, but for the working families and skilled tradespeople of Northeast Pennsylvania who stand to benefit most."

In a show of bipartisan cooperation, Rep. Ryncavage said he withdrew his amendment in committee with the understanding that all parties would work together on a mutually agreed-upon amendment. He said the revised language would be introduced for consideration when the bill gets called for a vote before the entire House of Representatives.

"The unamended bill passed the House Finance Committee on a party-line vote of 14-12, with all Democrats voting in favor and all Republicans opposed," Rep. Ryncavage said, "We remain hopeful that with the inclusion of language that supports natural gas and protects key incentives for Northeast Pennsylvania like the Local Resource Manufacturing Tax Credit, Republican members will ultimately be able to join in support when the bill comes before the full House."

Rep. Ryncavage said he is grateful all parties were able to come together in good faith and prioritize what's best for the communities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"This isn't about one company  it's about keeping Northeast PA competitive for the kinds of development our region deserves," Rep. Ryncavage said.

The Local Resource Manufacturing Tax Credit was originally established to support large-scale energy projects, create union construction jobs, and drive long-term economic growth and revitalization. Its preservation remains a key issue for Luzerne County's future.

Rep. Ryncavage said it is unknown when the bill will be placed on the House calendar for its next consideration, but in the meantime, all parties have committed to working together on language that protects the intent and economic impact of Act 66 of 2022.

The Local Resource Manufacturing Tax Credit was originally established to support large-scale energy projects, create union construction jobs, and drive long-term economic growth and revitalization.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Its preservation remains a key issue for Luzerne County's future," Rep. Ryncavage said.

The history

Rep. Ryncavage raised concerns on Tuesday about House Bill 500 of 2025  introduced by freshman Rep. John Inglis of Allegheny County  that proposed to remove the Local Resource Manufacturing Tax Credit, which was designed for Northeast Pennsylvania, and reallocate those incentives to other parts of the state.

If passed, Ryncavage said the bill would strip the region of a critical economic development tool designed to help it grow.

He also commented on how the proposal, if approved, would affect future development in NEPA.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We now have a federal administration that is more favorable toward natural gas and energy production at a time when demand is reaching all-time highs, driven by AI, data centers, and rising utility costs," he said. "In business, investment goes where investment is welcomed. If we want that investment here in Luzerne County, we cannot afford to strip away the very incentives designed to attract it."

In his legislative newsletter, Ryncavage explained that back in October 2021, Luzerne County residents were introduced to a transformative proposal  a $6 billion manufacturing facility by Texas-based Nacero, planned for a former coal mining site in Nanticoke and Newport Township.

Ryncavage said he and other legislators and economic development and labor officials felt the plant would have produced gasoline using natural gas and renewable natural gas, promising thousands of family-sustaining jobs and a major boost to the regional economy.

According to Ryncavage, at the time when the proposal was announced, Nacero projected the creation of 3,500 construction jobs across all trades and 450 permanent high-tech positions, paying an average of $85,000 per year. The project earned bipartisan support, with praise from leaders across the aisle, including U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser and former U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright and. However, Ryncavage said some local residents expressed concern about having such a facility near their homes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2022, Act 66, known as the PA Economic Development for a Growing Economy tax credit program, was signed into law. This bipartisan initiative, authored by Republican lawmakers and enacted under Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf, established targeted incentives to attract major industries to Pennsylvania.

Included in this legislation was the Local Resource Manufacturing Tax Credit  which was crafted specifically to bring economic investment to areas like Nanticoke and Newport Township.

Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  There is growing reaction Tuesday night as a Republican state lawmaker calls on the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn its ruling, making gay marriage legal.

LGBTQ+ advocates say they are annoyed that, in this day and age, legislators are still trying to define what love is for everyone.

For the Oklahoma legislature to choose at this moment to say that they dont value the sanctity of marriage between queer constituents is definitely concerning, Nicole McAfee, Executive Director of Freedom Oklahoma said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After more than 40 years, the fight to legalize same-sex marriage on the federal level came to an end back in 2015.

Bill to ban DEI in Oklahoma higher education heads to governors desk

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the Constitution does not limit marriage rights.

Now, Republican Senator Dusty Deevers (R-Elgin), alongside Republican Representative Jim Olsen (R-Roland), have filed a resolution, calling for U.S. Supreme Court justices, most of them conservative, to overturn the 2015 ruling.

As part of their reasoning, Deevers and Olsen say Oklahoma voters codified marriage as being only between a man and a woman back in 2007.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Both believe the 2015 ruling has taken power away from the states.

They point directly to the Dobbs decision in 2022, which overturned Roe versus Wade, removing federal protections for abortion access, and sending the issue back to each individual state to regulate.

It is not a policy matter, McAfee said. It doesnt carry the force of law. There is not a case that the Supreme Court has taken up that would impact Obergefell in the immediate term.

However, it is still sparking concern among LGBTQ+ Oklahomans.

He is showing the people in Oklahoma, the LGBTQ+ community in Oklahoma, that their elected officials just simply do not care about them, Tessa White, President of Oklahoma Pride said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They say if the decision were to be reversed, it would uproot life for thousands of families.

Look at how this would be affecting LGBTQ+ families and their children, White said. Health care, child custody, insurance, medical decisions that need to be made, and housing.

News 4 has reached out to Senator Deevers, Representative Olsen, as well as other legislators who back the resolution, but we have not heard back.

Freedom Oklahoma says it will continue to help comfort those in times of uncertainty.

I hope that in this moment, when it feels like despair is heavy, that we can continue to create spaces for people to come together and to find joy and community and live our full lives with our spouses and our partners and our families, as we always have here, McAfee said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is unclear if the resolution will be heard in the state senate, which cannot direct the actions of the nations highest court.

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 KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
It is unfortunate that a day of celebration at Tougaloo College was met with attempts by extremists to overshadow the moment and intimidate those in attendance. Their threats, aimed at undermining Congresswoman Jasmine Crocketts powerful commencement address, failed. The Tougaloo community remains proud, strong, and unmoved.

Tougaloo College is known around the world and has long been an agent for change during some of our nations most difficult times. Congresswoman Crockett is one of the most sought-after voices in the U.S. House of Representatives, and we were honored to have her speak.

I stand in solidarity with the Tougaloo community and commend Congresswoman Crockett for her inspiring message to the graduates. Under no circumstances will we be intimidated by fear.
REAL ID Arkansas driver's license

(Courtesy of the Department of Finance and Administration)

Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration officials announced Wednesday that duplicate drivers licenses can be ordered online and delivered by mail beginning May 12.

The temporary online processing of duplicate and replacement licenses and ID cards will allow DFA officials to focus on issuing REAL IDs, according to a press release. New, first-time licenses may still be obtained at any State Revenue Office. Renewals will also continue normally for licenses and IDs within 90 days of expiration, as has been the policy for years, according to the release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As of Wednesday, REAL IDs, which are signified by a gold star on a drivers license or state-issued ID card, are required for Americans boarding domestic flights or entering certain federal buildings.

REAL IDs began with a 2005 law passed by Congress in response to the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Instituting REAL IDs statewide will help fight terrorism and reduce identity fraud, according to the state finance department website.

State officials said DFA has issued record numbers of REAL IDs this week, about 10,000 per day, ahead of Wednesdays deadline, according to the press release. More than 132,000 were issued between April 1 and early May.

This week, DFA will focus on ensuring those with immediate travel plans have access to a REAL ID, according to the release. The state agency will continue issuing REAL IDs after Wednesday, and Arkansans may obtain a REAL ID at any of the states 134 Revenue Offices.

More information, including what paperwork is needed to obtain a REAL ID, is available on the state finance departments website.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
NEW MEXICO (KRQE)  Wildfires have left communities devastated across New Mexico, but its not just people who are affected. All that destruction takes a toll on the trees left standing.

Last construction phase at intersection begins ahead of Rio Bravo Bridge replacement

2024 was a rough year for New Mexico trees, with more than double the tree deaths than the year before. There were 70,000 acres of dead trees, up from 33,000 in 2023. Thats according to a report released by the New Mexico Forestry Division. A lot of those acres are the result of the impacts of either drought and or the effects of being stressed by being in close proximity to some of the large wildfires, the burn scars from 2022, said Forest Health Program Coordinator for the New Mexico Forestry Division Victor Lucero.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Those trees, weakened by the effects of major wildfires, like the Hermits Peak Calf Canyon fire in 2022, are more susceptible to insect activity. More than 400,000 acres were damaged due to native insects, disease, and warm conditions; a 12% increase from the previous year. A lot of the burn scars in northern parts of the state, as well as middle and southern parts of the state, had large wildfires in 2022. Those areas did experience significant high numbers of bark beetles activity. As opposed to 2023, said Lucero.

The state reports 39% more trees lost needles or leaves. Damage was caused by bark beetles, which burrow into the tree and end up killing it, and other insects like the western spruce budworm, which defoliate the trees.

The New Mexico Forestry Division said one thing that can be done is to consider thinning the forest. Its counterintuitive to think this, but there are too many trees in the forest for especially these hotter, drier conditions, added Lucero.

Drought conditions improved slightly last year, but it was still the second warmest year on record. The state encourages landowners to contact their local forestry division to help create management plans for trees on their land.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
The National Transportation Safety Board has released a preliminary report into last months New Jersey helicopter crash that killed six people, confirming the aircraft was not equipped with any video or data recording devices.

The lack of data could make the investigation challenging for officials, who typically rely on such information to determine what led up to a fatal crash.

According to the agency, the helicopter began to rapidly descend into the Hudson River on April 10 when its main body experienced a structural failure in the tail section, leading to loss of control.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The fuselage, containing the engine and main rotor blade assembly, fully separated from the tail boom. Then, the main motor blades with attached transmission and roof structure detached from the fuselage, causing the structure to fall apart into three major sections: the fuselage, main rotor system and tail boom.

The flight path of the Helicopter involved in the tragic April 10 New Jersey crash that resulted in the deaths of six people (National Transportation Safety Board)

The helicopters last inspection was February 27.

A Spanish family who died in the crash had rented the helicopter for a sightseeing tour of New York City. They were later identified as Agustin Escobar, his wife, Merce Camprubi Montal, both Siemens executives, and their children, aged four, five and 11. The pilot was identified as Seankese Sean Johnson, 36.

A New York Police Department scuba team looks for debris in the Hudson River (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Photos taken of Johnson before the crash show he was wearing computer-augmented sunglasses that had video and audio recording capability. However, the sunglasses were not recovered from the scene.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The helicopter departed Downtown Manhattan around 2.58 p.m. then flew in a teardrop pattern south of the Statue of Liberty then proceeded north along the east side of the Hudson River adjacent to Manhattan, past the George Washington Bridge, where it performed a u-turn, then headed south along the New Jersey side of the river.

As the helicopter approached the Holland Tunnel ventilation towers near Jersey City, it was observed at an altitude between 625 and 650 feet. It then ascended to 675 feet before it started a rapid descent. The data ended at 3.14 p.m. and the helicopters last observed altitude was 125 feet.

Agustin Escobar, his wife Merce Camprubi Montal, and their three children were identified as among the victims of the crash (Facebook)

Nearby witnesses described hearing loud bangs emanating from the helicopter before it broke apart and crashed. Investigators recovered pieces of the aircraft from the river and a rooftop near the Hoboken transit building.

Johnson held a commercial pilot certificate with ratings for rotorcraft-helicopter and instrument helicopter. He held a current Federal Aviation Administration first-class medical certificate and had logged 790 hours of flight experience.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hed worked a 10 days on/10 days off schedule and the accident flight was his first day back after having 10 days off. The fatal flight was his eighth on the day of the crash.

Officials continue to examine evidence to determine what caused the tragedy. A complete report is usually completed a year after an accident.
SACRAMENTO, the United States, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The social security system of the United States, long troubled by delays and system errors, are feared to face widespread chaos, leaving millions at risk of losing the benefits they depend on, according to various reports.

In recent weeks, the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) has been "plagued by problems related to technology, system errors, and even the marking of living people as dead," KFF Health News reported on Monday.

Holders of millions of social security numbers in the country had been marked as deceased, and these erroneous deaths came after a pair of initiatives from new leadership at the SSA to alter or update its databases of the living and the dead, according to the report of KFF Health News, a program of the Kaiser Family Foundation that focuses on coverage of health care policy and politics.

After interviewing more than a dozen beneficiaries, advocates, lawyers, current and former employees and lawmakers, the organization discovered that the SSA's overhaul is "making the agency worse at its primary job: sending checks to seniors, orphans, widows, and those with disabilities."

In Schenectady, New York, for instance, the report said, the SSA staff had seen a surge of living people wrongly marked as dead in the agency's records. Rennie Glasgow, a 15-year SSA veteran, told KFF that four "dead" people had come in his office in the past few weeks and they had to "resurrect" them.

Though it happened sporadically before, Glasgow said, there had been an uptick in such cases lately across upstate New York.

These errors are not just bureaucratic nuisances -- they freeze bank accounts, cancel insurance, and cut off access to work and essential services, said lawyers and advocates.

Since this year, it's been no longer straightforward for the agency to process changes -- people had to face long phone holds, lost paperwork, or in-person visits ending with no answers, according to James Ratchford, a lawyer in West Virginia with 17 years' experience representing social security beneficiaries.

Another lawyer called the situation "unconditional chaos" in the KFF report but requested anonymity due to the law firm's policy.

Researchers and lawyers suggested that the new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, was behind the problems at social security.

In January, U.S. President Donald Trump's administration and the DOGE launched a sweeping campaign to cut costs and modernize the agency.

DOGE's reforms proposed slashing 7,000 jobs, over 12 percent of the SSA's workforce, and closing 60 percent of its regional offices. The agency also shuttered its Office of Civil Rights and Equal Opportunity, which handled reasonable accommodation requests and civil rights complaints, moving those responsibilities to other divisions.

In fact, long before the DOGE's overhaul sent shockwaves through the social security system, Americans had already been struggling with mounting delays, staff shortages, and critical errors.

"As the workloads go up, the demoralization becomes deeper, and people burn out and leave," former SSA Commissioner Martin O'Malley testified in a U.S. House of Representatives hearing on April 1. He predicted that more than 3,000 additional employees would leave the agency. "It's going to mean that if you go to a field office, you're going to see a heck of a lot more empty, closed windows," O'Malley said.

Staffing levels hit a 25-year low by the end of 2022, straining the agency's ability to serve more than 73 million Americans, according to the Revolving Door Project, a private government watchdog and advocacy group.

Even before the latest wave of cuts and reforms, people seeking disability benefits faced months or even years of waiting. In April, more than 1 million initial disability claims were pending -- nearly double the number in 2019, according to The Arc, an advocacy group for people with disabilities.

The average wait time for a first decision was 232 days, or nearly eight months, and appeals could stretch the process to more than two years. In 2023 alone, 30,000 people died while waiting for a decision on their benefits.

With fewer staff and shuttered offices, wait times are soaring and critical errors are multiplying. The result is financial hardship, homelessness, and worsening health for people who can't access the benefits they need, warned The Arc.

"We are concerned that these longer wait times mean more disability applicants will die before they can get the Social Security benefits they need and deserve," The Arc said. 
By 2050, nearly 324,000 people across New Jersey could face a serious challenge: stronger coastal floods that could disrupt daily life, according to a new report from Climate Central.

As seas rise and storms get supercharged by the planet-overheating pollution from burning dirty energy sources, both coastal and inland communities are preparing for bigger changes than many might expect.

What's happening?

A new study from Climate Central found that nearly 324,000 New Jersey residents could be at risk from severe coastal flooding by 2050, as reported by the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It's not just beach towns like Wildwood and North Wildwood  where over 90% of residents could be impacted  but also inland areas like Camden, Burlington, and parts of Philadelphia, thanks to rising waters from tidal rivers like the Delaware.

Researchers combined the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's sea level projections with local population and building data to show that floods expected only "once in a century" could happen about 10 times more often by 2050.

As Kelly Van Baalen of Climate Central pointed out, "It's not some nebulous impact to polar bears or people living in the future, but flooding in my own town."

Why is rising flood risk important?

Flooding isn't just an inconvenience  it damages homes, shuts down businesses, and makes it harder for communities to recover after storms.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

About one in five people living in flood-prone areas is 65 or older, making them especially vulnerable.

While extreme weather events have always existed, scientists agree that human-driven changes to the climate now supercharge these events, making storms and floods stronger, more frequent, and more dangerous to our communities.

The pollution blanket caused by burning dirty energy is warming the Earth, raising sea levels, and reshaping coastlines.

This growing risk mirrors changes happening across the country, from Florida to New York, where real estate markets and infrastructure are adapting to new climate realities.

What's being done about rising flood risk?

Thankfully, real solutions are already underway. New Jersey's Department of Environmental Protection is restoring coastal wetlands, natural buffers that help absorb storm surges.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cities are updating building codes, reinforcing flood defenses, and rethinking how neighborhoods are built to better stand up to future storms.

Broader efforts, like the restoration of wetlands and the implementation of urban climate adaptation strategies, are also helping communities become more resilient.

If you're curious about how you can make an impact, exploring critical climate issues is a great place to start.

You can also help shrink pollution at home by installing solar panels through trusted programs such as EnergySage, supporting greener transportation, and backing local community resilience projects.

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 US Navy fighter jet crashed into the Red Sea while attempting to land on an aircraft carrier, US media reported on Tuesday, citing officials and people familiar with the matter.

The pilot and a weapons systems officer ejected and were rescued from the water with minor injuries, according to broadcaster CNN. The aircraft has not been recovered.

A US defence official confirmed the incident to Business Insider, adding that no flight deck personnel were injured.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The incident is the second loss of an F/A-18 fighter jet, which are estimated to cost more than $60 million, from the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman in just over a week. In the previous case, reports indicate that the Truman made a turn to avoid Houthi fire, which contributed to the jet falling overboard, according to CNN.

The USS Harry S. Truman is deployed in the Red Sea as part of US operations against the Iran-backed Houthi militia in Yemen.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday claimed the Houthis had "capitulated" to the United States and Oman's foreign minister announced a ceasefire agreement between the Houthis and the US.
Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, R-Arnold, introduces a bill during the 2024 legislative session. On Tuesday, she filibustered a bill that would invest in child care statewide (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).

A faction of Missouri Senate Republicans held up a bill that sought to incentivize investment in child care Tuesday evening, arguing the chamber should instead move on to GOP priorities.

The legislation, which would establish a tax-credit program at an estimated expense of nearly $70 million annually, was part of negotiations on a separate bill that would roll back regulations on guns.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

State Sen. Rick Brattin, a Republican from Harrisonville and sponsor of the gun bill, said he was willing to accept a tax credit program in order to pass his legislation seeking to block enforcement of federal gun laws.

But a handful of GOP senators didnt agree.

State Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, a Republican from Arnold, led a filibuster of the bill, saying she would rather see far-right legislation take precedence in the final days of the legislative session.

It is absolutely insane to me that we have reached this point in session where we are laying over a bill (that would) protect the Second Amendment to create child care tax credits, she said on the Senate floor. Whose logic is that? This is absurd.

Coleman offered an amendment to give a $10,000 tax credit per child to stay-at-home parents, saying she thought the underlying bill literally devalued being a homemaker and being a mother. The Senate rejected her proposal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Speaking during Tuesdays debate with Republican state Sen. Jill Carter of Granby, Coleman said she was a lawmaker and a lawyer but first and foremost a homemaker and mother.

Carter liked Colemans proposed amendment, adding she had been a stay-at-home mother while her husband worked two jobs. She thought child care tax credits could prompt some parents to send children to day care.

I wondered what it is that were incentivizing, she said. Are we incentivizing parents leaving their kids more? Or do we want change, for parents to be able to be more engaged in their childrens lives?

State Sen. Curtis Trent, a Republican from Springfield, questioned why child care was suffering under a free market.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Given that there is a demand for child care thats not being filled, why does the state need to be involved in giving a boost to capital investment to create more capacity? he asked. Why are private markets not investing in more childcare capacity to meet this demand?

State Sen. Sandy Crawford, a Republican from Buffalo, said the pandemic hurt the supply of child care providers.

During COVID, we lost a lot of childcare facilities, and theyve never really come back, she said. This is just an incentive to give other opportunities to come back.

Crawford said she stepped up earlier in the day as the Senates carrier of the legislation. State Sen. Lincoln Hough, a Republican from Springfield, was the original Senate handler but had other duties as appropriations chairman.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He spoke briefly in defense of the legislation, saying it wouldnt fix the states struggle to have enough childcare, but could help get more parents into the workforce.

Maybe it is that thing that gets somebody to say, This helps out just enough, and gets them back to a job, Hough said. Then (the bill) does what we all want to do, which is getting this state working to the greatest extent we can.

As reported in The Independents Disappearing Daycare series, access to child care started to wane prior to the pandemic, with the number of child care programs dropping 24% between fall 2019 and fall 2020.

Areas with three or more children for every licensed child care spot are considered a child care desert, and nearly half of Missouri kids ages five and under live in one. In some ZIP codes, there are 20 children for each available slot in a day care facility.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Provisions in the bill seek to pinpoint child care deserts for an infusion of funding.

Filed in the House by Republican state Rep. Brenda Shields of St. Joseph, the legislation would create a three-pronged tax credit program to support child care.

One piece of the bill would allow taxpayers to donate to a child care provider and receive 75% back as a tax credit, up to $200,000. Businesses with at least two employees could receive a 30% credit for child care expenses.

Child care providers would also receive their employer withholding tax, or the amount required to be reserved from employees paychecks for tax purposes, back in a credit. They could also receive a 30% credit on capital expenditures.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The credits for each program are capped at $20 million annually. If this is reached, then the cap raises 15% with the increase dedicated to child care deserts.

All three programs would expire at the end of 2031, if not extended by future general assemblies.

The bill was set aside after three hours of debate.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
(Photo illustration by Kathie Obradovich/Iowa Capital Dispatch)

Rest assured, Iowa. Republicans in Des Moines have heard your concerns about high prices, and theyre doing something about it.

Members of the Iowa House took the bold step recently of voting to eliminate the sales tax on toilet paper. This was such a high priority that Speaker Pat Grassley led the charge, along with nearly two dozen other members of the House GOP. The Senate and Gov. Kim Reynolds still must act before it becomes law, but judging by the non-partisan estimates, if all of them get on the same page, this will save every Iowan about $2.65 a year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Go to town, Iowa. Buy a couple of candy bars.

To be fair, this isnt the only item Republicans want to shelter from the state sales tax this session. Theyre talking about adding laundry detergent, too.

In all seriousness, I can see why Republicans might be eager to look like theyre reducing the sales tax burden on Iowans. Public opinion polls say Americans are worried about high prices. Meanwhile, the tariffs President Trump is imposing have convinced people, correctly, that prices will go up even more.

Still, Republicans in Iowa have more to be concerned about than just what their partys leader is doing to shrink American bank accounts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Theyve created problems of their own.

Big shift in Iowa tax collections

Over the past few years, the Iowa GOP has slashed personal and corporate income taxes that, historically, have taken a bigger percentage out of the incomes of the rich, even as they have collected more and more sales and use taxes, which exact a higher toll on low- and middle-income Iowans.

Heres a good illustration. The March report by the state Revenue Estimating Conference on general fund revenues predicted that in fiscal year 2026, 55% of total tax receipts, or $5.6 billion, will come from personal and corporate income taxes. Meanwhile, 44%, or $4.4 billion, will come from sales and use taxes. (These figures dont include refunds, the vast majority of which are personal income tax refunds.)

Thats an extraordinary shift.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2019, almost 63% of total tax receipts came from personal and corporate income taxes, while nearly 34% of the total came from sales and use taxes, a 29-point difference. That gap fell to 24 points in 2023. In 2026, the REC says, it will shrink to about 11 points.

Percentage of Iowas total tax receipts by fiscal year and tax type, not including refunds. (Data source: Revenue Estimating Conference reports on General Fund revenues. Graphic: Ed Tibbetts)

This is an easy trend to miss.

Republicans have made a big deal out of cutting income tax rates, and they get plenty of news coverage from it, too. Meanwhile, the states sales and use tax rates have remained the same. But dont think the state isnt collecting more money every year just because those tax rates stayed the same. It clearly is.

People are spending more money each year on goods and services, and theyre paying more sales tax as a result. In addition, the Legislature expanded the sales tax, beginning in 2019, to include digital goods, subscription services and other online sales.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This was no small tax increase. In fiscal year 2024, the state raised about $349 million from the tax on remote sales. Six years earlier, that number was zero.

Meanwhile, the money the state is raising from the income tax is steadily declining. Between fiscal years 2023 and 2026, Iowa will collect nearly $1 billion less from personal and corporate income taxes, according to the Revenue Estimating Conference. At the same time, the state will raise almost $500 million more from sales and use taxes, the REC estimates.

Again, the state is raising more money from the tax that hits low- and middle-income Iowans the hardest and less from the tax that traditionally has had a bigger impact on higher-income Iowans.

Think of it this way: The sales tax on the $50 spent for clothes or dinner at a restaurant takes a bigger chunk out of the income of someone making $30,000 a year than it does from someone whos making $1 million. Last year, a study by the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy said the 20% of Iowa households with the lowest incomes in the state paid 6.6% of their family incomes on sales and excise taxes. The top 1% only paid 1.1%.

(Source: Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy)

This should not be a surprise. The same principle is at work with Trumps tariffs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The tariffs, which are a sort of sales tax, will hit low-income families harder than the wealthy.

A new study by ITEP said for households making less than $29,000 next year, Trumps tariffs will impose an additional 6.2% tax on them, according to CNBC. Households making more than $915,000 a year will also see an increase, but it will be much smalleronly 1.7% of their incomes.

Meanwhile, those tariff revenues will undoubtedly backfill somebut certainly not allof the revenue lost to the federal treasury by extending the Trump tax cuts, which favor the wealthy.

Hedging their bets

In Iowa, Republican lawmakers support their president. And they are working to permanently freeze the shift theyve implemented in state tax collections. Theyve pressed forward with a proposed amendment to the Iowa Constitution that would require supermajorities in the state Legislature to raise the personal or corporate income tax. But not the sales tax. They purposely excluded this tax from their proposal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Why?

I think its because theyre hedging their bets.

Iowa Republicans already see that their income tax cuts have yielded a $900 million deficit for fiscal year 2026. They have suggested theyll use one-time reserve funds to close the deficit this year. But what about down the road? What happens if Iowas economy hits the skids? Or if lawmakers find they cant squeeze public education budgets more than they have already? Or if the economy doesnt grow as much as they promised and state reserves drain faster than expected?

If this constitutional amendment is approved by voters, it will be practically impossible to raise personal or corporate income taxes, even on the wealthy who have benefitted the most from the Republicans new flat income tax. Which may leave them no alternative but to raise sales and use taxes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The trend here isnt hard to figure out. The state of Iowa is relying more on the taxes that hit low- and middle-income Iowans the hardest, even as they lean less on the tax that has traditionally taken more money from the wealthy.

This is a big shift, and saving $2.65 on a years supply of toilet paper does nothing to change that fact.

This column was originally published by Ed Tibbetts Along the Mississippi newsletter on Substack. It is republished here through the Iowa Writers Collaborative.

Editors note: Please consider subscribing to the collaborative and the authors blogs to support their work.
Senate Republicans have a request for President Trump: Stop talking about dolls.

Questions about tariffs and their economic impact have prompted Trump to argue that U.S. families need to be prepared to sacrifice during what he hopes is a temporary rough spot that leads to lasting prosperity. To illustrate that point, Trump has argued that instead of buying dozens of dolls for daughters, families only buy a couple as they grow more expensive due to the levies.

While Republicans have been largely in lockstep behind the administrations actions, the latest messaging has become a turnoff. Many GOP lawmakers view it as counterproductive and fear Trump comes off as out of touch.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Everything that we need to do needs to be instructed by people who experienced scarcity, and thats clearly the words of somebody thats never experienced scarcity, one Senate Republican said. Its not really sensitive to the circumstances of people that are struggling every day.

It would be helpful to be more relatable, the GOP member added.

Trumps initial comment came during a Cabinet meeting last week, surrounded by a number of multimillionaires and one of the richest individuals in the world. And he has repeated at least three times since that Americans should become more comfortable with fewer things  at least in the interim.

All Im saying is that a young lady, a 10-year-old-girl, 9-year-old girl, 15-year-old-girl, doesnt need 37 dolls, Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday, hours after he defended the comments in a Meet the Press interview. She could be very happy with two or three or four or five.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When a half-dozen GOP senators were asked about the remarks, none of them threw their full weight behind them. Some said they understood Trumps point to a certain degree or pointed to his unique style of communication.

However, several indicated they wished Trump would discontinue the line and use a different comparison that would better apply to middle-class Americans.

The thing that I admire about it is he is willing to acknowledge that tariffs may have a short-term consequence, but be believes in the long run, theyll have a long-term benefit and hes setting expectations at the family-table level, Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) told The Hill. But he might be setting the expectations as a millionaire that may not translate to the family worker.

I grew up the son of a rural electric lineman, and no one ever got 30 dolls, but if they got one it was a good Christmas. It may very well be that the illustrations fall a little bit flat with middle-class America, Cramer said, adding that automobiles or a number of kitchen-table items would be better examples. Its unnecessary for sure.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (W.Va.), a member of GOP leadership, was more blunt.

He thinks its a good example. Im not sure its the best example, she said.

Senate Republicans have maintained Trump should receive a significant amount of deference on the tariff front, especially as trade and economic advisers attempt to hammer out dozens of agreements in the coming months.

Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) said Jamieson Greer, the U.S. trade representative, told Republicans last week that negotiations are underway with roughly 40 countries, with some potentially being finalized in the coming weeks.

That has stopped most members from publicly opposing the tariffs, no matter how squeamish they might be behind closed doors.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The biggest deal of them all, however, seems nowhere close to a resolution as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told Senate appropriators Tuesday that talks have yet to start with China. Trump has slapped Beijing with a 145 percent tariff that remains in place, unlike most that have been delayed since his Liberation Day announcement early last month.

Its that tariff that could largely lead to empty shelves, which Trump was referring to with the doll comments.

Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), one of Trumps foremost critics on his sweeping levies, also heavily criticized the comparison and said that it comes off like government controls.

How many dolls you have is up to the people who buy them, not up to the president, said Paul, the libertarian-leaning member. When you start listening to people talk about [tariff policy], it sounds like industrial policy, and it sounds like the government choosing for you what is a good amount of things to buy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I dont care if you have four TVs in your house or one TV or no TVs. Its none of my business, he continued. But for the government to tell you you shouldnt have so many TVs. That sounds like big brother.

But on top of the practical concerns of a potential economic dip, there are political ones that Republicans remain worried about as they try to keep everyone on board with the tax cut effort in the coming months and into the 2026 midterm cycle.

Telling people theyll get less and pay more doesnt strike me as a winning message, one Senate GOP aide said curtly.

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.
House Republicans went after the presidents of three universities Wednesday in their latest Education Committee hearing to focus on campus antisemitism as Democrats accused the majority of caring more about making a scene rather than solving real problems.

The House Committee on Education and the Workforce held a hearing with the heads of Haverford College, DePaul University and California Polytechnic State University to evaluate the spread of antisemitism on college campuses beyond the Ivy League schools that have recently been targeted on the issue.

The scourge of antisemitism has taken root far beyond the countrys best-known ivory towers. And its our responsibility as a committee to unearth and address antisemitism at these schools, too  especially as antisemitism is at a historic high in the United States, Chair Tim Walberg (R-Mich.) said in his opening remarks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Throughout the hearing, all three presidents lamented their schools responses to the pro-Palestinian encampments and how their universities have handled antisemitism in the wake of Hamass Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel and the subsequent war in Gaza.

Republicans kept hammering the presidents with examples of property damaged during protests on their campuses or instances of students and professors who have allegedly engaged in antisemitic rhetoric.

Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) asked Robert Manuel, president of DePaul, why he allowed the encampment to go on for as long as it did on campus.

Im not asking what you learned. Im asking why you made the decision, because Im going to refer you to your policy that you have in place. Why didnt you follow your policy? McClain asked.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Our immediate instinct was to work with our students, Manuel said, with McClain following up, Howd that go?

Not very well, he conceded.

When Haverford President Wendy Raymond was questioned about why her school did not immediately condemn the Hamas attack, she said, I would do it differently now. This is an example of a difficult period of learning where I did not get it right.

Raymond garnered much of the Republicans attention after she refused to answer how many students have been suspended due to antisemitic activity and was vague on answers regarding what statements should lead to suspension or firings of students or faculty.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I suppose its your First Amendment right to be evasive, but its also our right to decide that such institutions are not deserving of taxpayer money, Rep. Bob Onder (R-Mo.) told her.

Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) said she was going to ask all the presidents her infamous question from an earlier antisemitism hearing on whether calls for the killing of all Jewish people would be acceptable on campus, but she ended up focusing on Raymond.

No, of course not, Raymond said before dodging Stefaniks questions regarding disciplinary actions.

Representative, I will not be talking about individual cases, Raymond said before Stefanik noted threateningly that previous university presidents  referring to the former heads of Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania  lost their jobs after their answers to the committees questions back in December 2023.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Many people have sat in this position who are no longer in the positions as president of their universities for their failure to answer straightforward questions, Stefanik said. For the American people watching, you still dont get it. Haverford still doesnt get it. Its a very different testimony than the other presidents who are here today, who are coming with specifics.

Democrats, while condemning antisemitism, chastised Republicans for what they say are publicity efforts instead of working to solve the issue.

All students have the right to learn in a safe environment free from discrimination, in compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Unfortunately, instead of properly enforcing Title VI, this committee is holding the eighth hearing describing the problem and complaining about antisemitism on college campuses, instead of taking any meaningful action to actually solve the problem, said ranking member Bobby Scott (D-Va.).

The Trump administration has taken billions of dollars away from universities it accuses of inaction on antisemitism, but the conditions it has so far listed to get federal funding restored have little to do with directly addressing the issue.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

President Trump has told Harvard, which has so far lost $2.2 billion in federal funding, it will need to reform its hiring and admissions practices and get rid of diversity, equity and inclusion efforts before funding will be restored.

Moreover, instead of conducting investigations according to the law, the Trump administration has taken a sledgehammer to due process rights of institutions. The public has seen a barrage of reports of this administration taking action without any investigation, Scott 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 The Hill.
Brian Kemp's decision not to run for Senate isnt just a setback for Republicans in Georgia. It is the latest sign that the GOP's prospects across the Senate map are far less certain than just a few months ago.

It could turn worse, too, as President Donald Trump's tariffs cause global market chaos ahead of next year's midterms and a cloudy economic picture comes into fuller view.

Republicans are still widely expected to keep the Senate. But after Kemp and former New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu rejected GOP recruitment efforts  and with hardline conservative Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton primarying the establishment Sen. John Cornyn  the GOP is bracing for a more turbulent cycle than once expected.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thats not to mention other brewing challenges in Louisiana and North Carolina, where MAGA figures are threatening primaries against longtime incumbents.

Midterm elections [are] generally tough for the party in power, Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) said in a brief interview. Im always worried.

There is cause for Johnsons heartburn. A senior Senate GOP campaign official, granted anonymity like others in this story to discuss the situation candidly, acknowledged he would have loved for both Kemp and Sununu run  and for Paxton to have sat out a Cornyn challenge. But this person and others involved in GOP recruitment efforts argued the party hadnt been counting on either of the governors  and had considered them longshot recruits even amid heavy efforts to court them.

In Texas, the senior Senate GOP campaign hand said there will be a serious effort to ensure Cornyn is the nominee. The senator recently brought on former Trump pollster Tony Fabrizio to burnish his MAGA credentials, according to two people familiar with the decision. GOP senators wanted to keep Paxton out of the race, maneuvering to undercut him before his launch and urging Trump to endorse Cornyn, a close ally of leadership and former chair of the Senates campaign arm.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It remains unclear if Trump or the White House will ask Paxton to stand down. Advisers in the White House are aware hes a political liability  and that Texas is an expensive state to campaign in.

Republicans could have another unwanted primary on their hands in Michigan, where Rep. Bill Huizenga is mulling whether to join former Rep. Mike Rogers in seeking retiring Sen. Gary Peters seat.

As for Georgia, Republicans are deemphasizing any despair over Kemp by pointing to the growing field of potential candidates emerging from both the House and state government.

Democrats are salivating over the possibility that Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) could mount the bid she was already flirting with before Kemp announced his plans. But GOP senators continued on Tuesday to downplay concerns that the MAGA firebrand could tank their chances.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Im encouraged by the fact theres a lot of interest, Senate Majority Leader John Thune said Tuesday in response to a question about whether the GOP could flip the seat if Greene is the nominee. I expect Georgia will be a competitive race. Well be close to the end. But I think its a race that we can win.

Democrats see Republicans failure to recruit Kemp and Sununu as evidence that even quality GOP candidates do not want to spend a grueling cycle answering for Trumps policies  particularly surrounding the economic fallout from his tariffs.

Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee spokesperson Maeve Coyle said in a statement that every GOP candidate will be forced to answer for Trumps harmful agenda in 2026, and the partys disastrous start to the year puts Democrats on the offensive, even as they face a tough map.

Senate Democrats are positioned to win seats in 2026, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But Democrats have long been facing a bleak outlook at retaking the Senate  one made even darker by a series of retirements. The party has limited pickup opportunities: Just one seat up next year is held by a Republican in a state that former Vice President Kamala Harris won in 2024. And Democrats have four open seats to defend between battleground Michigan and a trio of bluer states.

National Republican Senatorial Committee spokesperson Joanna Rodriguez said in a statement that Republicans broadly must hold every red seat and chase opportunities in toss-up states like Georgia, Michigan and New Hampshire. And in Georgia, which Trump won in 2024, we remain confident a Republican will beat pro-impeachment Democrat Jon Ossoff in 2026.

Some senators, including former NRSC chair Rick Scott of Florida, suggested Republicans recruitment misfires were more telling of how prospective candidates sized up the job in Washington compared to their executive roles back home.

I dont think its about chances, I think its about: they know how difficult this job is, the former Florida governor said in an interview. Governors get to be the executive and lead the state. The legislative process is a lot harder, especially up here. I think it probably reflects more how difficult it is to get a result up here.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And GOP senators defaulted to arguing that Democrats still face a more challenging map.

I would much rather have the Republican side of this map than the Democrat side of this map, Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) said in an interview, while acknowledging that it was unfortunate Kemp and Sununu passed and that they would have been very strong candidates. (Cruz, who won an upset primary in 2012, is so far declining to endorse in the primary in his state.)

Still, multiple Republican senators and operatives acknowledge their overall efforts hinge on the economy as they wait to see how Trumps tariffs land.

I dont think theres going to be a problem  it depends on the economy, obviously, Sen. Tommy Tuberville of Alabama, who has been considering a run for governor rather than seek reelection next year, said in an interview. It depends on how President Trump does in the next 12 months.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Jay Williams, an Alpharetta, Georgia-based GOP strategist, said his party could face a further darkening outlook.

I think ultimately it's going to come down to the economy and at that time, and how scared Republicans are, Williams said. If things economically are going well, you'll get to the social issues [playing more a deciding factor]. If things are really bad economically, I think it's gonna be tough for Republicans. Like, I don't know how you slice it any other way.

Williams added, Never underestimate Republicans' ability to pull defeat from the jaws of victory.

Brakkton Booker and Andrew Howard contributed to this report.

CORRECTION: This article misstated Cruz's primary opponent in 2012.
The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor in France is inching closer to completion with the delivery of essential magnetic components from China for its fusion reactor.

The Correction Coil In-Cryostat Feeder is the last and most important of many massive components in the reactor's magnetic feeder system, according to Interesting Engineering.

The device was developed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Institute of Plasma Physics, and, according to the institution, it consists of nine sets of half-ring structures measuring approximately 52 feet wide and 10 feet high.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Per the news report, ITER is jointly funded by the European Union, China, the United States, Japan, the Republic of Korea, India, and Russia, all working together to unlock nearly unlimited amounts of clean and sustainable energy.

Fusion is the process of harvesting energy released when two nuclei in a superheated plasma combine to form a new atomic nucleus. The energy and pressure required to heat the plasma are immense, even exceeding temperatures in our sun, where fusion naturally occurs.

Although the success of human-made fusion reactors is still mostly theoretical, scientists are hopeful that this energy source is nearing viability.

According to ITER, "Fusion research has increased key fusion plasma performance parameters by a factor of 10,000 over 60 years; research is now less than a factor of 10 away from producing the performance needed for a fusion power plant."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The process does not emit harmful pollutants or long-lived radioactive waste and uses Earth-abundant deuterium and tritium as fuel. If successful, fusion reactors could complement solar and wind energy, pushing society further toward its sustainability goals.

The ITER magnetic feeder system is known as the "lifeline" of the reactor's magnetic assembly, and Lu Kun, deputy director of ASIPP, explained how crucial it is to the project in a press release from the school.

"It provides energy and cooling media to the fusion reactor magnets, sends back critical control signals, and also acts as a discharge channel to safely release stored magnet energy," Kun said.

Other fusion reactor projects are making progress with incremental improvements to their design.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

China's Huanliu-3 reactor employs real-time data tracking to help fine-tune internal processes, while scientists at the UK Atomic Energy Authority successfully produced fusion-grade steel that can withstand the temperatures needed in these reactors.

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.
Kelcie Moseley Morris

Alaska Beacon



In the remote villages of Alaska where social worker Laura Norton-Cruz works to improve maternal and infant health, there are no hospitals.

Pregnant patients, almost all of whom are Alaska Native, often fly on small 10-seat planes to the regions larger hub community of Kotzebue. While some give birth there, many more then take a jet out of the Northwest Arctic region to Anchorage, the states largest city. By the time they fly back to Kotzebue for their six-week checkup, a high percentage have stopped breastfeeding because of a lack of ongoing supports.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Norton-Cruz knows that because of data collected by Alaskas Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) a grantee of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Preventions PRAMS program, started in 1987 in an effort to reduce infant morbidity and mortality.

But earlier this month, the Trump administration cut the federal program, its 17-member team and more workers in the Division of Reproductive Health as part of sweeping layoffs within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Rita Hamad, associate professor at Harvard School of Public Health, said PRAMS helps researchers understand what kinds of state policies are improving or harming child health.

I cant overemphasize what an important dataset this is and how unique it is to really show national trends and help us try to understand how to optimize the health of moms and young kids, Hamad said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

PRAMS does not ask abortion-related questions, but some anti-abortion groups still try to make a connection.

The cuts seem appropriate given all the bias in choosing topics and analyzing data, but if Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System wishes to justify their reporting, point to the study that has most helped women and their children, born and preborn, survive and thrive, Kristi Hamrick, vice president of media and policy at Students for Life of America, told States Newsroom in an email.

Over the past two years, Norton-Cruz used Alaskas PRAMS data to identify low breastfeeding rates in the region, connect with people in the villages and interview them about what would help them continue to breastfeed. What they wanted, she said, was a peer in the community who understood the culture  so thats what shes been working to set up through federal programs and funding that is now uncertain.

Norton-Cruz also uses responses from PRAMS surveys to identify risk factors and interventions that can help prevent domestic and sexual violence and childhood trauma, particularly in rural communities, where the rates of domestic violence and maternal death are high.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

PRAMS data not being available, I believe, is going to kill mothers and babies, she said. And its going to result in worse health for infants.

New York City grant is renewed, but data collection is paused

Individual states collect and report their own data, and the CDC team was responsible for aggregating it into one national picture. Some localities, such as New York City, maintain a full dashboard of data that can be explored by year and survey question. The most recent fully published data is from 2022 and shows responses by region, marital status, Medicaid status and more.

For instance, 2022 data showed women on Medicaid experienced depressive symptoms at a higher rate after giving birth than those not on Medicaid. It also showed that a much higher percentage of women not on Medicaid reported putting their babies on their backs to sleep, the recommended method for safe sleep  63% of women on Medicaid reported following that method, versus 85% not on Medicaid.

Hamad said PRAMS is the only national survey dataset dedicated to pregnancy and the postpartum period. Her team has studied the outcomes of the Women, Infants, and Children food assistance program, and how state paid family leave policies have affected rates of postpartum depression.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This survey has been going on for decades and recruits people from almost all states, she said. Theres really no other dataset that we can use to look at the effects of state and federal policies on infant health and postpartum women.

Under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Health and Human Services laid off about 10,000 employees as part of a restructuring effort in early April. The overhaul is part of the Make America Healthy Again initiative, and the agency said it focused cuts on redundant or unnecessary administrative positions. It rescinded some of the firings in the weeks since, with Kennedy telling reporters that some were mistakes. Its unclear if any of those hired back were PRAMS employees.

The cuts, Hamad said, also run counter to the administrations stated goals of wanting to protect women, children and families.

The government needs this data to accomplish what it says it wants to do, and its not going to be able to do that now, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The funding for local PRAMS programs seems to be unaffected for now. Spokespersons for health department teams in Alaska, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Kansas told States Newsroom they have not had any layoffs or changes to their grants, but the funding for this fiscal year ends on April 30. Forty-six states, along with D.C., New York City and two U.S. territories, participate in the program. According to the CDC, those jurisdictions represent 81% of all live births in the United States.

New York State Department of Health spokesperson Danielle De Souza told States Newsroom in an email their program has received another year of funding that begins May 1 and supports one full-time and two part-time staffers. But without the assistance of the national CDC team to compile, clean, and prepare the data, maintain the data collection platform and establish standards, De Souza said their state-level operations are on pause.

We remain hopeful that the data collection platform will be fully reactivated, and that CDC coordination of PRAMS will resume, De Souza said. The department is assessing the challenges and feasibility of continuing operations if that does not occur.

Hamad said some states might be willing to allocate state dollars to the programs to keep them running, but the states that have some of the worst maternal and infant health outcomes  such as Arkansas, Mississippi and Alabama  are the least likely to have the political will to do that. And it would still make the data less robust and valuable than it was before.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If one state is asking about how often you breastfed in the last week, and another one is asking about the last month, then we wont have comparable data across states, she said.

Project 2025, anti-abortion groups have criticized CDC data collection

Jacqueline Wolf, professor emeritus of social medicine at Ohio University, has studied the history of breastfeeding and childbirth practices and said the rates of maternal and infant death were high in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. For every breastfed baby, 15 raw milk-fed babies died. Wolf said 13% of babies didnt live to their 1st birthday, and more than half were dying from diarrhea.

To help determine what was causing those deaths and prevent it, public health specialists created detailed forms and collected information from families about a mothers age, the parents occupations, race, income level, household conditions, and how the babies were fed.

Researchers at that time were able to determine that babies who werent breastfed were getting sick from unpasteurized milk and tainted water supply, and more than half were dying from diarrhea. Through public health reforms, like requiring cows milk to be pasteurized, sold in individual sterile bottles and kept cold during shipping, infant death rates dropped, Wolf said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Health officials also increased education campaigns around the issue. Today, PRAMS uses survey data the same way.

These were detectives, Wolf said. Thats what public health really is, detective work, which is why this data is so important.

Project 2025, the blueprint document of directives for the next Republican presidential administration crafted by conservative group Heritage Foundation in 2024 and closely followed by President Donald Trump and his cabinet, details plans for the CDCs data collection efforts. Page 453 of the 900-page document, written by Heritage Foundation executive Roger Severino says its proper for the CDC to collect and publish data related to disease and injury, but the agency should not make public health recommendations and policies based on that data because it is an inescapably political function.

The agency should be separated into two, Severino wrote, with one agency responsible for public health with a severely confined ability to make policy recommendations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The CDC can and should make assessments as to the health costs and benefits of health interventions, but it has limited to no capacity to measure the social costs or benefits they may entail, the document says.

On page 455, Severino says the CDC should also eliminate programs and projects that do not respect human life and undermine family formation. It does not name PRAMS as a program that does this, but says the agency should ensure it is not promoting abortion as health care.

Hamrick, of Students for Life of America, told States Newsroom in an email that because there is no national abortion reporting act that tracks outcomes for women who end a pregnancy, assumptions in current reports taint the outcomes. Hamrick said the CDC has done a poor job of getting a complete picture of pregnancy risks, including the risk of preterm birth after having an abortion.

Taxpayers dont have money to waste on purely political messaging, Hamrick said.

Without data, researcher worries policy recommendations will be easier to dismiss

If researchers like Laura Norton-Cruz dont have PRAMS data moving forward, she said they will be operating in the dark in many ways, using anecdotal and clinical data that is not as reliable and accurate as the anonymous surveying. That can make it more difficult to push for funding and program changes from lawmakers as well.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Moms need safe housing and domestic violence resources, moms need health care and breastfeeding support, and if we cant show that, then they can justify not providing those things, knowing that those most affected by not having those things will be groups who are already marginalized, Norton-Cruz said.

While HHS did not cite the administrations ongoing efforts to remove any content from the federal government that acknowledges disparities in race or gender as its motivation for cutting the PRAMS team, researchers who spoke with States Newsroom think that could be the underlying reason.

Wolf said race matters in data collection just as much as household economics or class, and it is just as relevant today as it was when PRAMS was established, as maternal death rates for Black women and other women of color are disproportionately high in a number of states. Those states are also often the poorest and have higher infant mortality rates.

Wolf recalled that during Trumps first term in 2020, the first year of COVID, the administration ordered the CDC to stop publishing public data about the pandemic. She sees a parallel to today.

I fear that is exactly whats going on with PRAMS, she said. To pretend like you dont have the data, so the problem doesnt exist, is just about the worst response you can think of, because more and more mothers and babies are going to get hurt.

States Newsroom state outlet reporters Anna Kaminski, Danielle Prokop and Emma Murphy contributed to this report.
UNITED NATIONS, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Drone strikes in the aid hub of Port Sudan are choking the delivery of relief and the movement of personnel to facilitate distribution, a UN spokesperson said on Wednesday.

Stephanie Tremblay, an associate spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, said the Red Sea port is a key entry point for aid and humanitarian personnel in Sudan, and the attacks thwarted the movement of both.

She said the World Food Programme suspended its UN Humanitarian Air Service operations on Sunday and won't resume them until conditions are safe, further straining the delivery of urgently needed assistance.

The northeast Sudan port was not the only target of drone raids.

She said the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reports that drone attacks affected the states of Kassala, east of Khartoum, and River Nile state, north of the capital. Earlier this week in Kassala, strikes near the airport displaced about 2,900 people and led to the temporary suspension or relocation of some aid activities.

"River Nile state is still facing a power blackout following a drone strike on the transformer station in Atbara on April 25," Tremblay said. "The outage is contributing to growing fuel and bread shortages and long queues at petrol stations and bakeries."

Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Tom Fletcher expressed deep concern over the Port Sudan drone strikes, saying that international humanitarian law must be respected and that constant care must be taken to spare civilians and civilian infrastructure.

Drone attacks on Tuesday struck strategic sites in Port Sudan, including an international airport, a hotel near the temporary presidential palace, and an oil export port, according to eyewitnesses.

Although no group officially claimed responsibility, the Sudanese military has blamed the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces for the drone attacks, which started on Sunday.

The port city has been serving as a temporary capital in the wake of devastating attacks on the traditional capital of Khartoum. 
By Tariq Maqbool

MUZAFFARABAD (Reuters) - Residents of Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, said they fled their homes and ran into surrounding hills as India launched airstrikes early on Wednesday in a part of the city.

Mosque loudspeakers told people to seek shelter as the ground shook repeatedly and the sounds of explosions reverberated, they said.

"We came outside," said Muhammad Shair Mir, 46, describing the events of the night. "Then another blast happened. The whole house moved. Everyone got scared, we all evacuated, took our kids and went up (the hill)."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Many people gathered after sunrise near a mosque that had been hit in the strikes, its roof smashed and minaret toppled. Security forces had cordoned off the area.

The district commissioner, a senior local official, said three people were killed near the collapsed mosque. In total, Pakistan's military said 26 people were killed and 46 wounded in Indian attacks across Pakistan and Pakistani Kashmir.

India launched the strikes early on Wednesday, saying it was targeting "terrorist camps" that served as recruitment centres, launchpads, and indoctrination centres, and housed weapons and training facilities.

Pakistan called it a "blatant act of war" as tensions spiralled between the nuclear-armed rivals after a deadly attack by Islamist gunmen on tourists in Indian Kashmir. It said none of the targeted areas were militant camps.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

District officials said that at the Line of Control that divides Pakistani and Indian Kashmir, mortar and light arms fire between the two armies continued into the morning and had killed at least six civilians on the Pakistani side.

Police in Indian Kashmir said at least 10 people were killed and nearly 50 injured there.

In Muzaffarbad, hospitals were operational and some small businesses opened in the morning but schools were closed and examinations cancelled, according to local authorities.

Shair Mir said he and his family spent four hours in the open. Some of his neighbours had gone to hospital with injuries and the rest were shaken, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"This is wrong ... poor innocent people, our poor mothers are sick, our sisters are sick .. our houses were rattled, our walls have cracked," he said.

(Reporting by Tariq Maqbool, Akhtar Soomro and Reuters TV in Muzafarrabad; writing by Charlotte Greenfield; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan)
CLEARWATER, Fla. (WFLA)Sixty people were evacuated from South Beach III Condos on Gulf Boulevard Tuesday after a crack was found in a support column, the Clearwater Police Department said.

Aurora Donnelly was inside her condo when she heard firetrucks outside her building.

When she went downstairs, she noticed dozens of first responders swarming her building.

What goes through your head is Miami, right? Donnelly said, referring to the Surfside Condo collapse. So Im running down the stairs saying, Oh my gosh, I hope the building doesnt fall down.'

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Police told residents that work was being done on the condo building when crews noticed a support column beginning to split.

David Zusman, who also lives in the building, said he saw the column in question.

There was a single column out of many columns and there was a little crack probably like this size right here, Zusman said.

He explained that, though he and his family will be sleeping in a hotel tonight and all of their belongings are still inside the building, hes grateful he was evacuated.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Zusman believes its better to be safe than risk a major tragedy.

Its a very inconvenient thing, but they were able to evacuate the building in time, nobody got hurt, and nobody will get hurt because I strongly believe the engineers, the fire department, and police are doing the right things, Zusman said.

Nevertheless, he, Donnelly, and dozens of others were displaced for the night yet again.

Weve had so many things happen, you know the hurricanes, the repairs from the hurricanes, then they had a fire when they were trying to fix the garage its just been crazy lately, Donnelly said.

News Channel 8 reporter Nicole Rogers asked, Any idea when youll be back home?.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Im hoping soon, Donnelly 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 WFLA.
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)

Higher education is a key ingredient for a strong Nebraska. As Nebraskans with longstanding experience in our states educational community, we underscore the need for state government to responsibly fund higher education as lawmakers set the upcoming two-year budget.

The NU system is under pressure with potential cuts on state and federal levels. Shown here is the University of Nebraska at Omaha campus. (Cindy Gonzalez/Nebraska Examiner)

The University of Nebraska, Nebraska state colleges and Nebraska community colleges are linchpins for our states future. As our elected leaders set the two-year budget, they have an important responsibility to see that these educational institutions receive the funding needed to serve Nebraska students.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Consider the stakes: The 21st-century economy requires ever-higher levels of education and training for Nebraska workers. The economic competition from other states is fierce. Workforce quality will be a key determinant of whether Nebraskas economy achieves needed innovation and sustained growth in coming years.

This is why chambers of commerce across the state have expressed support for proper state funding of higher education. Its why the Nebraska Farm Bureau has said our communities, rural and urban, benefit when our higher education efforts are not only planned well but also properly funded.

Value for Nebraska

Nebraskas higher educational institutions  NU, state colleges and community colleges  are working together to meet the states evolving workforce and higher education needs, and Nebraska students are taking advantage of what our institutions of higher education have to offer:

2030 attainment goal. In 2022, the Nebraska Legislature set a landmark state educational attainment goal. By 2030, lawmakers said, 70% of Nebraskans aged 25 to 34 should have a degree, certificate or credential with value in the workforce. It was a sensible goal, adopted by the University of Nebraska, the Nebraska State College System, Nebraskas community colleges, the State Board of Education, and the Nebraska Postsecondary Coordinating Commission. At present, Nebraska has achieved a figure of 58.8%  higher than the national rate of 56.8%.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Retention rate. The full-time freshmen retention rate has increased for our Nebraska institutions. In fall 2013, the retention rate was 71.3%. A decade later, it had risen to 76.4%.

Collaborative agreements. Students individual academic needs vary widely, and its important for our higher ed institutions to work together to find the best ways to meet those needs  and, indeed, they are. NU and Nebraskas state colleges and community colleges have achieved a range of cooperative partnerships with each other to provide students with flexibility and opportunity. A key example is the articulation agreements NU has with most Nebraska state colleges, community colleges and the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture. A student can pursue two years of state college or community college study, then transfer credits and complete his or her studies at an NU institution.

Thanks to this cooperation among our institutions, students can pursue the instructional path to fulfill their career aspirations and complete their degree on a schedule that works best for them. The partnerships also include Nebraska private-sector companies, industry associations and agricultural producers. This ongoing consultation helps Nebraska higher ed institutions align their instruction with real-world need and develop training and credentialing with high value for employers.

Benthack Hall at Wayne State College in 2021. (Courtesy of Geoff Johnson)

In all these ways, Nebraska higher ed institutions have made clear they stand ready to raise their educational achievements through forward-looking strategic planning, ongoing partnerships, standards of excellence and sound fiscal stewardship. But to do that, our state policy-makers must meet an obligation of their own.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the upcoming biennial budget, they must responsibly fund higher education.

No question, our elected leaders have a tough job in the face of competing demands, but a central priority must include sound financial support for our public university system, state colleges and community colleges. Our states business leaders have underscored the need for proper support of Nebraska higher education, and so have our agricultural leaders.

As Nebraskans with deep experience in our states educational community, we underscore this key responsibility for state policymakers to help secure a stronger future for Nebraska students and communities.

Greg Adams, a retired public educator from York, is a former speaker of the Nebraska Legislature, chair of the Legislatures Education Committee and former executive director of the Nebraska Community College Association. Ken Bird is the retired superintendent of Westside Community Schools in Omaha and former CEO of the Avenue Scholars program.
The European Union will not allow a return to dependence on Russian gas and oil.

Source: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at a European Parliament plenary debate, as reported on the website of the European Commission

Quote: "Some are still saying that we should re-open the tap of Russian gas and oil. This would be a mistake of historic dimensions. [...]

Dependency on Russia is not only bad for our security, but also for our economy. Our energy prices cannot be dictated by a hostile neighbour. [...]

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

So, we need a final push to phase out Russian fossil fuels."

Details: Von der Leyen expressed support for a new roadmap for a complete withdrawal from Russian energy resources and recalled that Russia has repeatedly proven itself an unreliable supplier.

"Putin has already cut gas flows to Europe in 2006, 2009, 2014, 2021, and throughout the war. How many times before they learn the lesson?" she stressed.

Von der Leyen acknowledged that there has been a recent minor increase in Russian energy imports to Europe, but predicted it would be temporary.

"As we support Ukraine, we must also continue to undermine Russia's ability to wage war. So, it is our core security interest to stop financing Putin's war-chest," she added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She also recalled that at the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the EU was spending 12 billion per month on Russian fossil fuels. Today, that figure has dropped to 1.8 billion per month.

Background:

It was previously reported that the European Commission is considering a legal withdrawal from long-term Russian gas contracts without paying compensation. This would be part of the EUs plan to completely phase out Russian fossil fuels by 2027, including a possible declaration of force majeure to allow companies to terminate contracts without financial penalties.

Meanwhile, some executives of major EU firms have suggested that imports of Russian gas, including from state-owned Gazprom, could resume.

"If there is a reasonable peace in Ukraine, we could go back to flows of 60 billion cubic metres, maybe 70, annually, including LNG," said Didier Holleaux, Executive Vice-President of Frances Engie Group, in an interview with Reuters.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
Both the retiring superintendent as well as the incoming superintendent of the erie school district were welcomed to the Rotary Club of Eries meeting on Wednesday to talk about the future of the school district.

Dr. Natalyn Gibbs was named the new superintendent of Eries Public School and began transitioning into the role on April 1.

Erie School District names new superintendent

Shes spent time working with Brian Polito and other district leaders to help enable a smooth transition when Gibbs steps into the role on July 1.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Weve got to get it right in terms of thinking about the foundational skills. Thinking about how do we increase graduation rates, how do we ensure that our students are college, career, and life ready? All of those things, of course, will come with the assessment of our district, said Dr. Gibbs.

Gibbs said the district will be thinking future forward, and said it will take a village to do the work needed to better the education of local students.

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.
The Lockport Post Office is prepared to deliver its part in the nationwide Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive on Saturday.

Postal customers in ZIP Code 14094 received their reminder in Wednesdays mail: Fill a bag with healthy, non-perishable food items and place it near your mailbox early Saturday. Your letter carrier will do the rest.

The annual food drive, undertaken by the National Association of Letter Carriers since 1993, directly aids food banks and food pantries throughout the country. According to rural letter carrier Dave McAninch, the longtime coordinator of the drive at the Lockport Post Office, its haul is delivered to the Salvation Army in Lockport, which distributes the food amongst six pantries in the Lockport area free of charge  unlike the regional food bank, which requires receiving pantries to pay for it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mayor John Lombardi III visited the post office Wednesday morning to read a proclamation citing the local drives impact  more than 150,000 pounds of food collected over the past 31 years, a record amount collected last year  and encouraging all city residents to join in reaffirming the obligation and commitment to the annual one-day postal food drive.

In Lockport, the 2024 drive raised a new record-setting haul: 9,625 pounds of food. Its previous annual high weight was about 7,900 pounds.

The Buffalo Post Office determined that Lockport was well above the average for Western New York last yearwhereas other locals were down as much as 50 percent, McAninch said. Its the generosity of Lockportonians, I guess.

The letter carriers who pick up bags of food on their route every second Saturday in May are doing so as volunteers. According to Lockport Postmaster Seth Siemucha, carriers are not required to participate, since handling the donations requires extra time and labor on their routes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

City letter carrier Mitch Gehring, a 10-year participant in the drive, doesnt think of it as extra work. Its nice to help the community, they need it, he said. If I wasnt scheduled to work, I would come in and help.

This years drive is the 16th Stamp Out Hunger campaign that Siemucha has been involved with as a carrier or a postmaster. In Lockport, he puts on what McAninch called a tailgate for the volunteers, who include some carriers family members, and aims to make it a big event.

I love this event, Siemucha said. This is the greatest country in the world, nobody should go hungry.  The drive is all about community. We come together, work hand-in-hand  and it is amazing to see what we can do.

McAninch said the Jeep Wrangler Club of WNY assists by having members pick up food from the carriers and transport it to the Salvation Army for sorting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Volunteers from all walks are welcome to help with that sorting on Saturday, social ministries coordinator Chris Gresart said.

McAninch extended the invitation to high school students who need credit for community service hours. They can just show up at the Salvation Army, 50 Cottage St., between 11 a.m. and noon, he said; he has the form that they'll need to certify their hours.
WALTHAM, Mass. (WWLP)  The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services and the Waltham Police and Fire Departments are investigating two suspicious fires on the Fernald School grounds last month, and are offering a reward for information.

Springfield crews put out electrical fire on State Street

On April 19th, the Waltham Fire Department was sent to 200 Trapelo Road for a reported fire. When crews arrived, a heavy fire was found in two buildings, one known as the schoolhouse/gym and the other the manual training building. Mutual aid was called to several nearby fire departments, and it took crews over six hours to put out the fire.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is believed by the Waltham Fire Department, Waltham Police Department, and State Police Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit that the fires were set intentionally and separately based on an examination of both of the buildings.

The two fires are being investigated as they might be related to fires on the Fernald grounds back in January of this year and December of 2024. On December 14th, 2024, an early evening fire caused damage to the Chapel of the Holy Innocents. On January 18th, another fire was reported in the late morning at Chipman Hall, which caused the roof to collapse. Like the most recent fire, both of these took place on a Saturday.

The Arson Watch Reward Program is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information on these fires. The program offers rewards for information that solves, prevents, or detects arson crimes.

We are asking anyone with information on recent fires on the Fernald grounds to share it with investigators, said Chief OConnell. There have been four fires in that area since December. These incidents are dangerous, and were deeply concerned that someone is going to be hurt.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These buildings were vacant, but any structure fire is inherently dangerous, said Chief Mullin. Firefighters confronted heavy smoke and flames venting out the windows. They were present when the roof of one building collapsed and the first floor of another collapsed into the basement. First responders, curious onlookers, and even the person or persons responsible could have been injured or worse.

If you were in the area of the Fernald School on these dates and saw anything suspicious, or if you have specific information on the person or persons responsible, please share it with investigators at 1-800-682-9229, said State Fire Marshal Davine. You can remain anonymous if you prefer. Whats most important right now is that these fires stop before someone gets hurt.

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.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI)  Rhode Island Education Commissioner Angelica Infante-Green was among a panel of education officials who spoke out against recommended funding cuts to the Department of Education by the Trump administration.

As we saw in the budget, there are some areas that are completely gone, Infante-Green said to U.S. senators at the hearing Tuesday evening, which included Sen. Jack Reed.

The proposal is what President Donald Trump is calling the skinny budget, which aims to cut hundreds of millions of dollars from the Department of Education in Fiscal Year 2026. One way the administration hopes to achieve this is by combining 18 K-12 grant programs into one and consolidating seven Individuals with Disability Education Act programs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We have to preserve the teachers, the education system, the rights that our students have because when I started teaching, those kids were in the basement, Infante-Green said.

RELATED: Trump orders plan to dismantle Education Department while keeping some core functions

The Trump administration said the goal is to move funding to the states, empower parents and stop so-called woke programs.

Children will be taught civic values for schools that want federal, taxpayer funding, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller recently said to reporters about the plan. So, as we close the Department of Education and we provide funding to states, we are going to make sure these funds are not being used to promote communist ideology.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Meanwhile, Infante-Green says Rhode Island has had academic recovery since the pandemic, but could flatten if there are federal funding cuts. She explained that funding makes up over 15% of the states education budget and is irreplaceable.

ALSO READ: Trump administration says Harvard will receive no new grants until it meets White House demands

In a statement, U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon said Trumps proposed budget puts students and parents above the bureaucracy.

It reflects the historic mandate I have been given to serve as the final Secretary of Education, McMahons statement added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The budget proposal had one area in education that avoided cuts: Charter schools. The proposal asked for $60 million in more funding for charters.

NEXT: JWU laying off 91 employees to address $34 million budget deficit

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.

Follow us on social media:

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

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.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI)  Owning a boat could soon become even more expensive in the Ocean State.

Thats because lawmakers are mulling a proposal that would impose a new tax on boats.

The R.I. House Committee on Finance took up the legislation, sponsored by Rep. John Lombardi, Tuesday evening.

Its a revenue source and its a revenue generator, Lombardi explained. The thing thats most concerning is, we could purchase a $5 million yacht right now, pay no sales tax and leave the state. So, what does Rhode Island derive from that?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Specifically, Lombardis proposal would remove the tax exemption on boat purchases.

SEE ALSO: DEM transplants quahogs to bolster declining population

Though Lombardis legislation takes aim at luxury boat owners, Rhode Island Salt Water Anglers Executive Director Scott Travers argued that this will have a negative impact on boaters, especially those who depend on them for their professions.

Quahoggers and shellfishermen rely on boats to get out and obtain their product, Travers said We are the Ocean State. If we begin taxing these items, it will impact them.

Boaters also argue that this could affect the Rhode Islands tourism industry, which is a key driver of the states economy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

With this tax, the perception perhaps will be that Rhode Island is not boating and fishing friendly, Captain Dave Monte said.

Lombardi said he hears their concerns and is open to making exceptions for local businesses, as well as others who rely on their boats.

The legislation has been held for further study.

Ocean, Bay & Beach // A look at the conditions at the coast 

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.

Follow us on social media:

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Subscribe Now

Ocean, Bay & Beach 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 WPRI.com.
CAIRO, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Iran, Egypt, Algeria, and Turkiye on Wednesday urged India and Pakistan to exercise restraint to de-escalate their simmering tensions.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei on Wednesday voiced grave concern over the recent escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan. He reaffirmed Iran's principled stance on avoiding the use of force in international relations and respecting national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Baghaei urged the two sides -- both longtime friends of Iran -- to pursue de-escalation through self-restraint and to prevent external actors, particularly Israel, from exploiting the situation to inflame further tensions.

The Egyptian Foreign Ministry emphasized in a statement the importance of exerting all efforts to achieve calm and defusing the crisis, warning against further escalation.

Egypt calls on India and Pakistan to exercise the highest degree of self-restraint and promote dialogue through diplomatic channels.

It also reiterated the importance of resorting to peaceful solutions that fulfill the aspirations of both nations, fostering calm and stability.

In a statement, Algeria's Foreign Ministry expressed "deep regret and grave concern over the tragic clashes between India and Pakistan," emphasizing that the overnight hostilities between Tuesday and Wednesday posed "serious risks to peace and security across the entire region."

It urged both sides to "exercise restraint, remain calm, and act responsibly to revive dialogue."

Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf restated this call in phone discussions with his Indian and Pakistani counterparts, according to the statement.

Also condemning India's overnight attacks on Pakistan and its targeting of civilians, Turkiye's Foreign Ministry warned that the "provocative" steps could create "a risk of an all-out war."

The ministry said Turkiye is following the developments "with concern" and called on both parties to act with "common sense" and avoid "unilateral actions."

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan later held a phone call with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, expressing Turkiye's readiness to "do its utmost to prevent further escalation of tensions" between the two sides.

Erdogan expressed Turkiye's solidarity with Pakistan, saying his country backs Pakistan's "calm and measured approach" in addressing the conflict, read a post by the Turkish Communications Directorate on social media platform X.

At least 26 people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army's media wing said. 
The Regional Industrial Development Corporation of Southwestern Pennsylvania will receive $6.98 million from the Shapiro administrations new PA SITES grants to refashion the former Alcoa manufacturing buildings in New Kensington.

The grant was one of 11 projects totaling $64 million announced Tuesday afternoon by Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who has made site development and shovel-ready projects among the top priorities of his economic development strategy. Its the first round of the PA SITES grants.

The grant to RIDC Southwestern Pennsylvania Growth Fund will go toward work at buildings 37 and 38 at the New Kensington Advanced Manufacturing Park, which the state said would allow about 130,000 square feet of space to be used by a business. The park itself is a 1.2 million-square-foot site along the Allegheny River in New Kensington and Arnold that is being developed by RIDC and the Westmoreland County Industrial Development Corp.

Click here to read more from our partners at the Pittsburgh Business Times.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW
Photo: Getty Images/istock

Youth mental health is in a state of crisis. There is no denying that anymore. According to the latest data, nearly one in five adolescents in North Carolina suffered from depression and one in ten of our high school students reported attempting suicide.

There has been a drastic increase in rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation amongst our youth in recent years and we know that what happens at school is contributing to those issues through peer pressure and bullying. Thats why schools have to be part of the solution.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Schools are places of learning and connection. Schools are where young people spend the most important hours of their day and where some of their most formative moments will occur. Schools have a huge impact on their health and wellbeing. And that impact should be positive.

But today there is a gap between the needs of our young people and the services available. In 2024, there were 1,928 students for each school psychologist in North Carolina  nearly four times the ratio recommended by the National Association of School Psychologists. For school social workers, the ratio was also nearly four times higher than what is recommended.

Thats a challenge that we should address. We know that school personnel provide much needed support for students with developmental and social-emotional needs. They monitor progress, they develop prevention and intervention plans, and they help students who are in need or who are at risk of dropping out. Theyre on the frontlines and they are often the first responders of our youth mental health crisis. And they need our support.

That was a focus of the 2025 North Carolina Child Health Report Card recently released by NC Child and the North Carolina Institute of Medicine.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The report card included a special section on school-based mental health including access to support staff, referral services, the connection between physical activity and mental health, and the impact of social media on mental health. And we can learn so much from this report.

We should address the causes of the youth mental health crisis (from new technology to social pressures) and we should also provide support to young people who are dealing with these issues. We are encouraged by efforts to increase pay for providers, develop the mental health workforce, and improve the states crisis system. And that more people are paying attention.

The Whole Child NC Advisory Committee at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction recommends improving access to school-based health services as a statewide priority.

East Carolina University has a Healthier Lives at School and Beyond program utilizing telemedicine to reduce barriers to services in rural areas. Theres also the Carolina School-Based Telehealth Learning Collaborative, comprised of health care providers across the state that implement both physical and mental virtual health services in our schools.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Several of our partners are raising awareness about the importance of school-based mental health services through the EarlyWell Initiative, Essentials for Childhood, and CaroNovas NC Youth Mental Health Action Plan. And we will continue to as well. We know that what happens at school can affect mental health and we need the resources to make that a positive outcome.

About the North Carolina Child Health Report Card:

At the North Carolina Institute of Medicine and NC Child, we are dedicated to ensuring that communities and policymakers have the best information on the issues facing our children. For nearly three decades we have partnered together to publish a Child Health Report Card.

The biannual report card provides a snapshot of the health and well-being our states children, and sheds light on the successes and challenges facing our youngest generations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This year the results were mixed. North Carolina received an A for insurance coverage and a B for maternal health and support. But we also received poor grades for oral health, healthy eating and active living, and education outcomes, and a failing grade for youth mental health.

Thats why we are speaking out about the severity of the youth mental health crisis and the opportunity we have to make a difference. Our hope is that the report card will inform leaders and policymakers across the state. The report card tells us whats working and where we need to improve so that every child can reach their full potential. And thats our goal.
The News

President Donald Trump gave JD Vance and Marco Rubio huge portfolios and has openly named both as his potential successors  putting two unlikely friends on a collision course for the GOP nomination in 2028.

Vance and Rubio arent exactly rivals; in fact, White House officials and people close to the vice president note he developed a close relationship with the secretary of state during their time together in the Senate, and now, in the Trump administration. Intentionally or not, though, the president is stoking future competition between the duo, and those around him are taking notice.

Both men are in charge of high-profile policy tasks, with Rubio recently claiming multiple positions in the administration, and are often seen by Trumps side. On Tuesday  days after Trump mentioned Rubio, then Vance, as potential successors  the pair sat next to each other on the yellow couch in the Oval Office as the president met with Canadas new prime minister.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He just loves to stir the pot, doesnt he? Sen. Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., told Semafor of Trumps dual boost for each man. Rubio has the depth, but man, Vance seems to be picking it up fast, really fast. Theyre both clearly on the short list, if theyre interested.

Rubios rising fortunes, combined with Vances pole position, offer two distinct but not clashing previews of the post-Trump Republican Party: Vance is the heir to Trumps most loyal base, and his Midwest heritage appeals to working-class voters, while Rubios blend of Trumpism and establishment bona fides could prove attractive to Hispanics and more moderate voters. Vances Ohio and Rubios Florida are both swing states that Trump turned red.

And despite both mens years-old criticism of Trump, they are now essentially in lockstep with him on policy. Thats a positive sign for Trumps allies, who are already wondering if anyone can truly inherit the MAGA movement after he leaves the White House.

In fact, one option thats been whispered by multiple administration officials and allies is a Vance-Rubio ticket in 2028. (Though, as Trump said Sunday, its far too early to pick a definitive successor.)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The president really likes JD, and hes very impressed with him, said Sen. John Hoeven, R-N.D. But now that hes around Marco a lot, I think he sees how capable he is.

Administration officials, and those close to the White House, also recognize the reality behind Trumps treatment of his possible heirs. His eventual endorsement will likely seal the deal in the partys 2028 primary, if he makes one. For now, the president is content to sit back and watch  but not without stirring the pot a little.

Vance is the first name and the most important name, because hes vice president, one person close to Trump told Semafor. But none of us should ever forget that Marco Rubio has run for president, and thinks he should be president. I dont think it should surprise anyone that Rubio thinks he could be president.

Allies close to Vance say given the two mens friendship, they dont see any scenario in which Rubio and Vance run against one another in 2028.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a statement sent after publication of this story, White House communications director Steven Cheung said that Trump has built the most impressive and most capable Administration in history.

Vice President Vance, Secretary Rubio, and the entire Cabinet are working tirelessly to implement the America First policies that Americans voted for, which has led to unprecedented successes in just four months, he said.

Know More

Rubio, 53, never ruled out running for president again after his 2016 loss to Trump, and his ascension within the presidents network began last year while he got vetted as a running mate. Though Trump chose the 40-year-old Vance in the end (after briefly wavering in favor of Rubio), he gave Rubio the secretary of state job and has continued heaping responsibility on his former rival.

Rubio is now Trumps national security adviser (for the moment, at least), in addition to serving as the acting archivist of the US and the USAID director. Vance, for his part, is a key Trump adviser on foreign policy issues and his liaison to the Senate, where he and Rubio served.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Vance is fantastic and brilliant, while Rubio is great, Trump said during Sundays NBC News interview, adding that a successful VP might have a leg up.

Still, some Republicans are warning them not to let competition complicate the Trump administrations direction.

Its interesting how the president has been using both of them in the same space, observed one Republican senator, who said the two are absolutely the frontrunners for 2028. Competition is OK, as long as the policies they are working on in conjunction with one another are for the good of our country.

To anyone who watched Rubio closely during his early career, his rise lately might come as a surprise. In fact, some Trump allies remain suspicious of his past hawkish tendencies, but those questions have largely quieted among MAGA faithful as Rubio reorients his foreign policy approach closer to that of the president.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rubio has gotten closer to Trump on Ukraine, shifted his foreign aid stance to align with the presidents, and long ago left behind his early work on comprehensive immigration legislation that would have run far to the left of the presidents deportation-centric policy.

For a long time, a lot of people in the Trump orbit were concerned that Marco was a little bit more hawkish, said one Florida Republican. Could Marco execute Trumps foreign policy, and could he do it in a cogent manner to reporters and everyone else? And the answer is, yes.

The View From Europe

Rubio is viewed more positively than Vance in Europe, where longtime US allies have bristled at the vice presidents rhetoric on defense spending and the Ukraine war. Vance, a leading critic of US support for Ukraine, has argued that Washington would be better served focusing its resources on countering Chinas threats in the Pacific.

Estonias Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna, who was in town for the Munich Leaders Meeting that Vance attended Wednesday, praised Rubio as someone who knows exactly what Russia is, he knows exactly what China is. Tsahkna described Vance as a charismatic leader.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But he also said that, ultimately, the individual is less important than the overarching policy mandate Trump was given.

The point is not what one or the other person is doing; the question is about the mandate, what was given, Tsahkna said. Of course, Vance is very outspoken.

Shelby, Morgan and Burgess View

Most Republicans are focused on what Trump is doing , not 2028, which might as well be light years away in the current news cycle.

But the next presidential election still looms, and Trumps not running again  despite his occasional flirtation with a Constitution-busting attempt to do so. The key perches that both Vance and Rubio occupy in his administration guarantee that 2028 will they or wont they speculation will continue to haunt their moves.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Until, perhaps, Trump makes a choice.

You can go to Vegas and bank on this: Whoever he endorses is going to be the winner, the Florida Republican said.

Room for Disagreement

Its not a foregone conclusion that Trump endorses at all, said Alex Conant, a Republican strategist who served as communications director for Rubios 2016 campaign. He pointed to past instances when presidents didnt endorse in the subsequent election during contested primaries, like Ronald Reagan in 1988 and Barack Obama in 2016.

I think if he endorses and puts the full weight of the Republican Party behind who he selects, that is hard for any other candidate to overcome, Conant noted.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But, he added, the bigger question is whether Trump can clear the field for his handpicked person.

That person might even end up being another GOP contender entirely. On Sunday, Trump noted he could name 10, 15, 20 other possibilities from the party.

And the presidents former press secretary, now-Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, has predicted that the first woman president will be a Republican.

Notable
FAIRMONT  Rivesville residents stepped up after Mayor Tracy Runyan made an urgent call for candidates for the towns upcoming election.

Runyan took to Facebook on April 2 to warn residents if the town couldnt fill its mayoral seat, as well as two town council seats and the job of recorder, the town was at risk of losing its incorporation.

This would be the equivalent to being classified as farmland, Runyan wrote in the post. Rivesville would essentially be a lawless land. That means everything weve worked too hard to build over the decades  gone.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Runyan wrote that without a functioning council, the towns utilities would be taken over, which meant losing control of the towns water utility, police department and garbage service, resulting in an increase in rates with residents having no say in the matter.

After the post went up on Facebook, City Clerk Eraina Gower said people stepped up to run for office. Two residents declared their candidacy for mayor and five people are running for council seats. Kimberly Hawkinberry Salerno and Donna Corwin are both competing for mayor. So far, the only residents who have announced their council candidacy publicly are Crystal Lindsey Adkins and Carl Scherzer.

Salerno said she got involved after seeing the towns warning posted to Facebook. She grew up in Rivesville and returned two years ago to take care of her mother. After getting in touch with Mayor Runyan, and getting input from her son, Salerno decided to put her leadership experience from working in the health care field to use. Since then, shes been going to City Council meetings, budget meetings and started learning the ropes from town staff.

Among the things Salerno wants to do is improve communication with the town. To her, it didnt appear residents knew there was an election going on until Mayor Runyan made her post on Facebook. Salerno wants to improve the Citys website which will make town ordinances easily available online.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I want to bring in Facebook Live for the council meetings, Salerno said. I want to get the information to the community. People cant be involved if information isnt out there accessible.

This isnt the first time Rivesville has had to scramble for candidates for town government. Mayor Runyan was part of a cohort of candidates that ran write-in campaigns in 2023 after no one signed up to run for that election. After the town warned of the consequences of not having those important seats filled, five candidates ran for council and mayor positions. This year, Mayor Runyan is moving out of city limits, rendering her ineligible for the Mayors seat.

Former state Sen. Mike Caputo, a lifelong Rivesville resident, said most likely people realized what was at stake after Mayor Runyan made her post.

People realize what we stand to lose, Caputo said. If we lose our corporation status, how are we going to survive?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In general, Caputo said small towns are what they are, and usually theres a big turnover of council and mayor over the years.

Caputo said after Runyan made her post, it appeared to generate some excitement and bring new blood to town leadership. Theres folks running hes never known personally. The fact new faces are running excites Caputo.

We got a fresh set of eyes and people who are excited and have energy and want to do what they can to make this community, which I already believe is a wonderful community, even better, he said.
WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP)  Road milling operations will be causing traffic delays on Highland Avenue in West Springfield on Thursday.

The Avett Brothers set to perform at the Big E in September

The West Springfield Police Department states that there will be no through traffic on Highland Avenue going to the Holyoke Mall. Road detour signs will guide you up Prospect Ave to Interstate Drive.

MAP: Highland Avenue in West Springfield

The road work is scheduled to begin early Thursday morning and will last all day. It is advised that drivers use another route when traveling on Thursday.

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.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
A man providing tech support for Robbinsdale Area Schools was arrested on Tuesday for possession of child sexual abuse material.

St. Louis Park Police Department said it executed a search warrant at a home on the 5700 block of Highway 7 around 7 a.m. and took a man into custody for possession of pornographic material involving minors.

It was later confirmed that the man is an employee of Robbinsdale Area Schools "providing technical support for staff and systems."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The school district's director of communications Derrick Williams told police that the employee's role had "no regular, unsupervised access to students."

The case remains active, with the man being held at Hennepin County Jail.

Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcements latest version of events, and may be subject to change.
ROBESON COUNTY, N.C. (WBTW)  Robeson County authorities are searching for a man they say is wanted on range of sex-related charges.

Rolando Villasenor-Martinez, 32, of St. Pauls, is wanted on charges of first-degree statutory rape, incest with a minor and felony child sexual abuse.

Anyone with information about the whereabouts of Villasenor-Martinez is asked to contact Robeson County Sheriffs Office at (910) 671-3170.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

* * *

Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. 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 WBTW.
ROBINSON, Texas (FOX 44)  A Robinson Police Department sergeant is back after being injured on an on-duty accident.

The department announced Wednesday that Sergeant William Hughes has shown incredible strength, resilience, and determination throughout his recovery. They are thrilled to have him back in uniform serving the community he cares so deeply about.

Sgt. Hughes originally sustained serious injuries in a crash in the 1900 block of Bullhide Creek Road on May 24 after his patrol car crashed into a sinkhole. The road washed out in front of him.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He sustained serious injuries and was trapped in his vehicle as rescue crews worked to extricate him. Sgt. Hughes was then air lifted to Baylor Scott and White in Temple.

ORIGINAL STORY: Robinson Police officer rescued from sinkhole

(Courtesy: Robinson Police Department)

(Courtesy: Robinson Police Department)

Robinson Police were assisted at the scene by the Lorena Police and Fire Departments, Hewitt Police and Fire Departments, Waco Fire Department, Robinson Volunteer Fire Department, AMR and an Air Ambulance. The Temple Police Department also stopped by the hospital and provided lunch for the family and Robinson PD officers.

Sgt. Hughes remained at Baylor Scott and White Temple in stable condition and was released a week later.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 KWKT - FOX 44.
BAGHDAD, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani met on Wednesday with visiting Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and discussed energy cooperation between the two countries.

The two sides discussed ways to strengthen constructive cooperation between Iraq and Azerbaijan across various fields, particularly in the energy sector, according to a statement by al-Sudani's media office.

Al-Sudani highlighted his government's approach to establishing bilateral partnerships with Azerbaijan to implement oil sector projects, inviting Azerbaijan's state oil and gas company SOCAR to invest in oil extraction, said the statement.

Al-Sudani reaffirmed Iraq's commitment to maintaining and advancing bilateral relations, and commended Azerbaijan's supportive stance toward Iraq's security and stability, it added.

For his part, Bayramov expressed his country's keen interest in sustaining and expanding its relations with Iraq across all sectors, the statement said. 
Rodney Hinton Jr. appeared in court this week for a hearing on charges he faces in connection to the killing of a Cincinnati sheriffs deputy. Walking past a wall of over 50 scowling deputies who posted up in support of their fallen colleague, Hinton stuck his chin up, eyeing down every single officer.

Now, the internet is reeling in support of who some are calling a hero after prosecutors claim he avenged his son who was killed by officers from that very department. From their point of view, he did what any father would do.

That man had NO prior record. He was a peaceful law-abiding citizen but they took his child, wrote one TikTok user.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I am a white guy with retired cops in my family... and the only thing Rodney did wrong was that he only got one of them, said another.

You take my son, and Ill do worse. Rodney Hinton Jr. isnt a combat veteran rated at the highest level for disability. They dont target people like me because Im better trained than most cops could ever be. Muscle memory doesnt go away, said one TikToker.

Hes had everything taken from him. They murdered the King he gave birth to. They murdered the future of his family. And hell never get Justice, so he took some, as was his right, said one woman.

Social media users are praising Cincinnati father Rodney Hinton for murdering a random police officer after his son was shot and killed by police in a carjacking incident. pic.twitter.com/7Ou37R82eJ  Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) May 7, 2025

Not only are folks praising him for getting an eye for an eye, but his supporters also sent a chilling warning that his alleged actions may birth a movement of people seeking revenge instead of justice.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rodney Hinton Jr. Scares the police. Thats not supposed to happen. The watchman is not supposed to be afraid of his watch. The situation is actually more delicate than the police in Cincinnati realize because how they treat Rodney will likely lead to more dead cops, wrote one X user.

Authorities say Hinton drove through an intersection Friday afternoon, striking Hamilton County Special Deputy Larry Henderson. The deputy died at the hospital. The day before the incident, deputies from the same department had shot down Hintons 18-year-old son, Ryan, after he tried to flee from a traffic stop.

Tuesdays bond hearing for Hinton ended in chaos after his brother shouted as he tried to push past the crowd of cops to view the hearing. The judge ordered Hinton to be held without bond on his aggravated murder charges.

For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Romanias Foreign Ministry, through a statement by spokesman Andrei Tarnea, has responded to Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin's claims that Romania and Bulgaria contributed to the tensions that led to the war in Ukraine.

Source: European Pravda with reference to Digi24

Details: Tarnea said that Romania's accession to NATO is the sovereign will of its citizens and its allies and "does not pose a security threat to anyone."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The spokesperson stressed that Putin is using "the same familiar narratives that served as a pretext for a brutal war of annexation".

"The only country that threatens regional security in Europe is the Russian Federation, which is waging an illegal and unjustified war, accompanied by numerous war crimes against civilians in Ukraine, as well as a Russian disinformation campaign and anti-European and anti-NATO propaganda," he said.

In the propaganda documentary "Russia. Kremlin. Putin. 25 Years", aired by Russia's state-run Rossiya-1 TV channel, archival footage is shown of the Kremlin leader in an old speech to world leaders, including Angela Merkel, stating that "so-called light advanced US bases are appearing in Bulgaria and Romania, one in each country. And we have every right to ask ourselves openly: against whom is this expansion taking place?"

The video goes on to show Putin speaking in the present day, explaining his statements of the time: "This was the message I wanted to convey to our partners and colleagues, hoping that they would hear us and change their attitude towards Russia. But, unfortunately, they did not hear us. That is, they heard us, but did not respond appropriately. Ultimately, this led to today's tragic events in Ukraine," the Kremlin leader said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Russia. The Kremlin. Putin. 25 Years" is a 90-minute documentary directed by propagandist Pavel Zarubin, featuring a series of interviews recorded in the spring of 2025, which presents Putin's "achievements" during his time in power.

In the film, Putin defends Russia's annexation of Crimea and justifies a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, attacks "Western values", speculates on who might one day replace him, and says he "hopes" he will never have to use nuclear weapons.

Background:

The leader of the far-right party and the winner of the first round of the presidential election in Romania, George Simion, called for an end to the Russian-Ukrainian war and also spoke out against supplying Ukraine with weapons.

On 4 May, Romania held the first round of presidential elections, which resulted in the victory of pro-Russian far-right leader George Simion, who gained 40.94%, and liberal Bucharest Mayor Nicusor Dan, who received 20.99%.

It is worth noting that on 15 November 2024, Simion was banned from entering Ukraine for his systematic anti-Ukrainian activity.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
BUCHAREST (Reuters) - Romania's hard-right presidential frontrunner George Simion will win the May 18 run-off vote against centrist Bucharest Mayor Nicusor Dan, an opinion survey showed on Wednesday, as the two clashed over worldviews and deficits in a debate.

The eurosceptic Simion decisively swept the first round of the ballot on Sunday, with some 41% of votes, triggering the resignation of leftist Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu and the collapse of the pro-Western coalition government.

Dan, running as an independent, won 21% of votes, and analysts said he will struggle to sway voters away from Crin Antonescu, the centrist backed by the government who ranked third, and Victor Ponta, a former leftist prime minister turned conservative nationalist who came fourth.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

An opinion survey conducted by polling institute Verifield and commissioned by Dan showed Simion was on course to secure 54.8% of votes in the run-off to Dan's 45.2%.

It surveyed 944 people on May 6 and had a margin of error of 3.19%. Almost one third of those surveyed said they were either not voting, were undecided between the two candidates, or declined to answer.

The Romanian leu has lost nearly 3% against the euro and Romania's 10-year bond yields surged by some 60 basis points since eurosceptic Simion's Sunday win.

Simion, 38, opposes military aid to neighbouring Ukraine, is critical of the EU leadership and says he is aligned with U.S. President Donald Trump's Make America Great Again movement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Analysts have said a victory by Simion could isolate Romania, erode private investment and destabilise NATO's eastern flank, where Bucharest plays a key role in providing logistical support to Ukraine as it fights a three-year-old Russian invasion.

Dan, 55, running on an anti-corruption platform, is a staunch supporter of Romania's EU and NATO membership and of its continued help for Kyiv.

During an impromptu debate at a conference organised by one of the country's biggest trade unions, the two agreed that mainstream politicians had angered people through corruption and perceived incompetence, but disagreed over how to heal the rifts.

Simion called the political establishment "globalist progressive satanic" who say "yes to Brussels." He also said the EU should not seek to replace NATO from a defence standpoint.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dan took a nuanced view, saying: "Of course we have had a political class that disrespected citizens. But the answer cannot be hatred that divides society."

The two also disagreed over how the next government - whose prime minister will be appointed by the new president - should deal with the largest budget deficit in the EU.

Simion ruled out tax hikes and said he would cut 500,000 jobs from the 1.3 million positions in the public sector over five years, but offered no alternative to cutting the deficit and avoiding a ratings downgrade.

Dan said the focus should be on enforcing reforms to tap European Union funds as well as ambitious state spending cuts.

(Reporting by Luiza Ilie; Editing by Leslie Adler)
NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WPRI)  The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) is advising drivers in southern Rhode Island to plan ahead in the coming days.

Starting at 9 p.m. Thursday, there will be extended lane closures on Route 1 at the Route 138 interchange in North Kingstown.

RIDOT said crews are using accelerated bridge construction methods to replace the structurally deficient Tower Hill Road Bridge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

ALSO READ: RIDOT to install new ramps linking I-95 to Route 4

The following lanes and ramps will be closed this weekend:

Route 1  one lane in each direction closed at the bridge

Ramp from Route 1 South to Route 138 East

Ramp from Route 138 West to Route 1 South

Ramps that allow traffic to reverse direction from Route 1 North to Route 1 South, and Route 1 South to Route 1 North

RIDOT recommends using alternate routes and suggested the following detours:

Route 1 South from East Greenwich to Route 138 East toward Jamestown and Newport: Remain on Route 1 South and reverse direction to Route 1 North using the turnaround approximately 1 mile south of the Tower (intersection with Mooresfield Road and Bridgetown Road). Follow Route 1 North to the ramp to Route 138 East. Note: Trucks will be directed to detour at Bridgetown Road to Boston Neck Road (Route 1A) to Route 138.

Route 1 South to Route 1 North: Use the same detour as Route 1 South to Route 138.

Route 138 West from Jamestown to Route 1 South toward South Kingstown/Narragansett: Use the ramp for Route 1 North. Merge onto Route 4, then turn right onto West Allenton Road. Turn right onto Route 1 South.

Route 1 North to Route 1 South: Use the same detour as Route 138 West to Route 1 South.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

RIDOT said drivers coming from URIs Kingston Campus should head toward North Kingstown using Route 2 North to reach Route 4.

Drivers heading north from Narragansett should use Route 1A.

The work is scheduled to be completed before Memorial Day weekend. RIDOT noted that all projects are subject to change.

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.

Follow us on social media:

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

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.
EAST CLEVELAND, Ohio (WKBN)  The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner has ruled that a Warren mans death in March was a homicide.

Read next: 3 former officers acquitted in fatal beating of Tyre Nichols

The body of Juvar King, 46, was found on the back porch of an abandoned house in the 1800 block of Chapman Avenue in East Cleveland on March 17.

The cause of Kings death was a gunshot wound to the head, the Medical Examiner ruled.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

King was reported missing from Warren in February, and the car he was driving was later found abandoned and burning on Sherwood Avenue in Cleveland.

Police arrested 28-year-old Nathaniel Christian Crockett as the suspect in the arson, but police have not made any arrests in his death yet.

This investigation is still ongoing, and detectives are working diligently to bring justice to Mr. Kings family. Well continue to investigate this matter thoroughly before anyone is charged in connection with Mr. Kings death, said East Cleveland Acting Police Chief Ken Lundy.

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.
WINDHOEK, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has appointed Ingenesia Inge Zaamwani as minister of agriculture, fisheries, water and land reform, the presidency announced on Wednesday.

In a statement, the presidency said that Zaamwani brings extensive experience from both the government and the private sector.

She has held senior positions in Namibia's mining, financial, and public sectors, including serving as managing director at Namdeb, Namibia's leading diamond miner; director of mines in the Ministry of Mines and Energy; and as a long-time board member and chairperson of major banks and corporate organizations.

Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed confidence that Zaamwani's administrative skills and industry expertise would be instrumental in driving value addition, job creation, and food security within the sectors under her purview.

The new appointment came after the recent removal of former minister Mac-Albert Hengari.

Hengari, appointed as agriculture minister on March 22, was arrested on April 26 and dismissed the following day after being charged with serious offenses, including kidnapping, rape, and assault. 
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia has never opposed a ceasefire in Ukraine, Russian state-run news agencies reported on Wednesday, citing foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova.

Responding to remarks by U.S. envoy Keith Kellogg that Russian President Vladimir Putin may be obstructing a comprehensive ceasefire, Zakharova expressed surprise at such allegations.

"The only obstacle to the ceasefire is Kyiv, which violates agreements and is unwilling to seriously discuss the terms of a long-term ceasefire," Zakharova said.

A ceasefire along the entire front line involves a lot of nuances that need to be worked out, Zakharova said.

(Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Maxim Rodionov; Editing by Chris Reese)
Russias President Vladimir Putin is set to host the leaders of China, Brazil and other heads of states for festivities on Friday marking the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.

Victory Day, which is celebrated in Russia on May 9, has become the countrys most important secular holiday. A massive parade through Red Square and other ceremonies underline Moscows efforts to project its power and cement the alliances it has forged while seeking a counterbalance to the West amid the 3-year-old war in Ukraine.

For Putin, this day is important as a demonstration how broad a coalition backing Russia is, said political analyst Nikolai Petrov.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lineup of leaders coming to Moscow this year contrasts sharply to some past celebrations that drew top Western leaders at a time of friendlier ties between Russia and the West.

The festivities have been overshadowed by reports of Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Moscow and severe disruptions at all four of the capital's airports, with dozens of flights delayed or canceled, stranding hundreds of passengers.

Tightened security around the celebrations also led to restrictions on cellphone internet service and reports of outages. Banks and taxi firms have preemptively warned customers about disruption to services over the holidays due to unstable internet access, and some shops and supermarkets have restricted deliveries due to potential network problems.

The guest list reflects Moscows priorities

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Putin described Chinese President Xi Jinping as our main guest at the Victory Day festivities when he discussed preparations for his visit with Chinas foreign minister. The Russian leader noted that he and Xi are to discuss both bilateral and global issues at their summit in Moscow.

Xi arrived Wednesday for a four-day visit. Putin's foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov has said they would discuss trade and Russias supply of oil and gas to China, as well as cooperation within BRICS  the bloc of developing economies that initially included Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa but has since expanded to more countries.

Putin and Xi have met over 40 times and developed strong personal ties to bolster their strategic partnership as they both face soaring tensions with the West.

China has offered robust diplomatic support to Moscow after the 2022 invasion and has emerged as a top market for Russian oil and gas, helping fill the Kremlins war coffers. Russia also has relied on China as the main source of machinery and electronics to keep its military machine running after Western sanctions curtailed high-tech supplies.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While Beijing hasnt provided weapons to use in Ukraine, it has backed the Kremlin diplomatically, blaming the West for threatening Russias security. China also condemned Western sanctions against Moscow.

Russia, in turn, has consistently voiced support for Beijing on issues related to Taiwan.

Last month, Ukraine reported capturing two Chinese soldiers who were fighting for Russia and claimed there were over 150 others deployed alongside Moscow's forces. Beijing disavowed official involvement, saying it told its citizens not to enter foreign conflicts. Reports suggested the men were mercenaries answering advertisements.

Indias Prime Minister Narendra Mod i, another top ally whom Putin has courted, had been expected in Moscow but he canceled his trip amid tensions with Pakistan after an attack in which gunmen opened fire on tourists in Indian-controlled Kashmir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

India, which has had persistent tensions with China, watched the growing Russia-China relationship with unease but sought to maintain close ties with Moscow. Russia is a major defense supplier for India, and New Delhis importance as a key trading partner for Moscow has grown since the Kremlin sent troops into Ukraine. Just like China, India has become a key buyer of Russian oil.

Brazils President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva also arrived Wednesday, his first official trip to Moscow since the invasion of Ukraine. He twice visited Russia during his previous tenure as president in 2003-10.

Other signs of global support for the Kremlin

Other guests include Slovakias populist Prime Minister Robert Fico, who has openly challenged the European Union's policies over Ukraine. Fico has shrugged off warnings from the EUs top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, against visiting Moscow, defiantly saying, nobody can order me where to go or not to go.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Serbias President Aleksandar Vucic made his first trip to Russia since the invasion, despite EU pressure that visiting Moscow could derail Serbia's ambitions to join the bloc. He arrived in Moscow on Wednesday after falling ill last week on a trip to the U.S., which raised questions about his attendance. The Kremlin said Putin will have bilateral meetings with him and Fico on Friday.

Petrov said attendance by European countries despite EU pressure demonstrates "that the Kremlin isnt just in any sort of isolation but has quite powerful support not only in the Global South but also in the West.

Putin met Wednesday with the leaders of Cuba and Venezuela, who also came to Moscow. He and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro signed an agreement on strategic partnership and cooperation.

The leaders of Vietnam and Burkina-Faso, plus presidents of several former Soviet nations, also were expected.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the guest list reflects the importance of the holiday and shows that Russia not only has allies, but a large number of countries that feel close to the spirit of our ideology and world vision.

Ushakov said Tuesday that leaders of more than two dozen countries are expected, and Putin will hold more than 15 bilateral meetings. The Kremlin also invited U.S. Ambassador Lynne Tracy, although whether she will be present at the parade, we will see on May 9, Ushakov said. The State Department didnt confirm whether any U.S. officials would attend.

Ushakov said Wednesday the presidents of Laos and Azerbaijan weren't coming after all. Laos President Thongloun Sisoulith fell ill with COVID-19, Ushakov told Russia's Life news outlet, and Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev, who the Kremlin said in March had accepted an invitation, had to attend events at home.

Relations between Moscow and Baku cooled after an Azerbaijani airliner crashed in Kazakhstan in December, killing 38 of 67 people aboard. Aliyev said it was shot down over Russia, albeit unintentionally, and rendered uncontrollable by electronic warfare. He accused Russia of trying to hush up the incident for several days. Putin apologized to Aliyev for what he called a tragic incident but stopped short of acknowledging responsibility.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Aliyev hasn't attended the Moscow parade since 2015, the Russian daily Vedomosti reported.

Past celebrations featured top Western leaders

When Russias ties with the West blossomed after the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union, many Western leaders attended Victory Day celebrations. In 1995, U.S. President Bill Clinton, British Prime Minister John Major and Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chretien were among the guests.

U.S. President George W. Bush attended the 2005 Victory Day parade along with the leaders of France, Germany and other heads of states, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel was on Red Square for the 2010 parade.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ties with the West were badly strained after Russias illegal annexation of Ukraines Crimean Peninsula in 2014 and the start of the conflict in eastern Ukraine, where Moscow backed a separatist insurgency. Western leaders stopped coming to the event.

U.S. President Donald Trump, who this year upended Washington's policy of isolating Russia over the war, hasn't ruled out visiting Moscow someday, but will not be attending on Friday.
By Gleb Garanich and Pavel Polityuk

KYIV (Reuters) -Russia launched an intense drone and missile attack on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities overnight, killing a mother and her son in the capital, amid faltering U.S.-backed attempts to broker a pause in the fighting.

Kamikaze drones continued to fly over Ukrainian territory at around 11 a.m. (0800 GMT) on Wednesday, the air force said, more than nine hours after air raid sirens first sounded over the Kyiv region.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The escalation comes as Russia prepares to welcome world leaders to Moscow for the May 9 parade to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Soviet Union and its allies in World War Two.

Ukraine launched drones towards Moscow for a third day, forcing most of the Russian capital's airports to close hours before Chinese President Xi Jinping was due to arrive.

The Kremlin has touted his presence, along with that of 28 other world leaders, as a sign that Russia has not been isolated since it launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February, 2022.

In Kyiv, warning sirens wailed in the early hours of Wednesday amid the rumble of air defences, and at least three districts were hit by falling debris from downed drones, Ukraine's emergency service said on the Telegram messaging app.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At one location, police loaded two bodies wrapped in white plastic sheets into a van. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said in a post on Telegram that a mother and her son had been killed.

EVACUATED IN NIGHT CLOTHES

At least seven people, including four children, were also injured in the attacks, Zelenskiy said, adding that Russia fired four ballistic missiles and 142 drones at Kyiv and five other regions.

In Kyiv, evacuated residents, some still in their night dress, waited outside damaged apartment blocks and watched as emergency workers tried to douse the flames and stop smoke billowing from burned out apartments.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I know the people there, I have been trying to call them, they are not picking up," local resident Volodymyr Khortov, 66, said outside one of the damaged buildings. "God forbid."

In Moscow, Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said that Russian air defence units destroyed at least 14 Ukrainian drones after 10 p.m. on Tuesday (1900 GMT), with no damage reported.

Russia's aviation watchdog Rosaviatsia said flights were halted at all four airports that serve Moscow for several hours overnight to ensure air safety for the third night in row.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, who will be hosting the leaders of several nations at the parade, has called for a May 8-10 ceasefire in the war.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Zelenskiy called the measure pointless and offered an unconditional ceasefire over at least 30 days in line with a U.S. proposal launched in March.

(Reporting by Lidia Kelly in Melbourne; Editing by Chris Reese, Michael Perry, Christian Schmollinger and Sharon Singleton)
Russian forces attacked Kyiv with a ballistic missile and 28 drones on the night of 67 May. Ukrainian air defences shot down one missile and 12 drones, while three drones went off radar and ten left the capitals airspace.

Source: Kyiv City Military Administration on Telegram

Quote: "One ballistic target and 28 Russian drones have been detected in the airspace of the capital and its suburbs since the beginning of the day. Air defence units successfully intercepted the enemy ballistic target... 11 enemy drones have been confirmed as shot down. Ten of them exited [Kyivs] airspace, and three disappeared from radar."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Details: Ukrainian authorities noted that the debris from the downed missile had fallen in the Solomianskyi district, damaging non-residential infrastructure. The fire was quickly extinguished on the spot, but one person was injured.

"If you come across debris from a downed enemy drone, do not approach it  call 101 immediately," the Kyiv City Military Administration stated, referring to the emergency police number in Ukraine.

Background: On the morning of 7 May, it was reported that two people had been killed and eight injured, including four children, in a Russian attack on Kyiv.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
The night of 67 May in Kyiv, which once again came under intense Russian attack, proved to be yet another ordeal for families with children. Iryna and her four children slept no more than two hours due to a large-scale assault  first with missiles, then with drones.

Source: Iryna in an interview with UNICEF Ukraine

Quote from Iryna: "First, there was a rocket attack, and then a Shahed drone struck our house directly. The windows were blown out and the balcony destroyed. Thank God, my children and I were hiding at the time. There are injured children in our building  they were taken to hospital with burns."

Iryna with her youngest son in a shelter

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Photo: UNICEF Ukraine

Details: The woman has a bandage on her forehead  she sustained a cut during the attack.

The family is now taking shelter in a hospital close to their home. Her older daughters, nine-year-old Mariia and four-year-old Viktoriia, doze on wooden benches as their mother rocks her youngest child.

Iryna with her youngest son and two daughters

Photo: UNICEF Ukraine

In the chaos and panic following the explosion, Iryna did not bring any food for the children. "Its a blessing I can breastfeed Davyd here," says the 38-year-old woman.

Other residents of the house in a shelter with their pets

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The family does not know when they will be able to return home. Electricity and gas supplies were cut off immediately after the strike.

"There was a big fire, and I was afraid it would reach the gas pipe. Now were waiting for the electricity to come back on  its cold at home," says Iryna's eldest son, 15-year-old Oleh.

The house that was hit on 7 May

Background:

The State Emergency Service of Ukraine reported that two people were killed and six were injured, including four children, during the night attack on Kyiv. Among the victims are two children.

In Kyivs Shevchenkivskyi district, a woman and her son who had taken in 10 cats were killed. Animal rescuers found one cat alive, but it suffered severe burns.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
Editor's note: This is a developing story and is being updated.

Russia launched a missile and drone attack on Kyiv overnight on May 7, killing two people and injuring eight others, including four children, officials reported.

Russian drone debris struck several residential buildings in the Dnipro, Shevchenkivskyi, and Sviatoshynskyi neighborhoods of the capital.

In the Shevchenkivskyi district, the bodies of two people were discovered after a drone struck a five-story residential building, Ukraine's State Emergency Service reported. While in the Sviatoshynskyi district of the city, one adult and four children sustained injuries as a result of the attack.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A drone also struck a multi-story residential building in the Dnipro district destroying the 29th and 30th floor

A total of three children have been hospitalized due to burns stemming the attack. One other adult was also hospitalized.

First responders have been dispatched to the sites of attack.

Kyiv Independent journalists first reported explosions around 1 a.m. local time, as Ukraine Air Force warned of missile strikes on Kyiv. Additional explosions were reported around 4:30 a.m. amid the threat of drone attacks.

Local officials also reported that a supermarket, post office branch, as well as a number of cars were damaged in the attack.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The attack on the Ukrainian capital comes ahead of the start of Russia's Victory Day celebrations on May 7, with 29 world leaders expected to attend events in Moscow.

Russia stepped up its attacks against Ukrainian civilians in the past weeks, resulting in numerous casualties reported in Kryvyi Rih, Sumy, Odesa, Kharkiv, and Kyiv.

On May 4, a Russian drone attack on Kyiv injured 11 people, including 2 children, and damaged a shopping mall.

Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a three-day ceasefire for Russia's Victory Day commemorations between May 7 and 9  a proposal that President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected, calling it a a "theatrical performance," designed to ease Russias international isolation and create a favorable atmosphere for Moscow.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read also: I just hate the Russians  Kyiv district recovers from drone strike as ceasefire remains elusive









Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Attacks by Ukrainian long-range drones caused flight disruption at Moscows main airports for a third straight day on Wednesday as Russia prepared to receive the Chinese president and other foreign leaders for the annual Victory Day military parade in Red Square.

Russian flag carrier Aeroflot on Wednesday morning canceled more than 100 flights to and from Moscow. More than 140 Aeroflot flights also were delayed because of what officials described as the Ukrainian drone threat and amid heightened security measures around the Victory Day events.

Russian air defenses repelled an attack by nine drones close to the Russian capital, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said in the early hours of Wednesday. In the evening, Sobyanin reported thwarting 15 more drones targeting Moscow, as flights were restricted in Moscow's airports once again.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Though Ukrainian drones have targeted Moscow in the past, the sustained attacks appeared designed to disrupt preparations for the 80th anniversary celebrations marking victory over Nazi Germany in World War II  Russias biggest secular holiday of the year.

The repeated assaults could unnerve Russians, who have been told by President Vladimir Putin that the more than three-year war with Ukraine is going well, as well as potentially embarrass him in front of his illustrious guests.

Security is expected to be tight for Fridays centerpiece parade. Foreign dignitaries, including China's President Xi Jinping and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, arrived on Wednesday.

Russia plans a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire to coincide with the celebrations in Moscow. In March, the United States proposed a 30-day truce in the war, which Ukraine accepted, but the Kremlin has held out for ceasefire terms more to its liking.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Vice President JD Vance said Wednesday that the U.S. appreciated Ukraine's willingness for a ceasefire, but the U.S. is trying to move beyond that. What the Russians have said is a 30-day ceasefire is not in our strategic interests. So weve tried to move beyond the obsession with the 30-day ceasefire and more on the, what would a long-term settlement look like? he said.

Vance said that the next steps are to have the Russians and Ukrainians directly negotiating.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said last weekend that his country cannot provide security assurances to foreign officials planning to visit the Moscow events. Russia could stage provocations and later attempt to blame Ukraine, he said.

Our position is very simple: we cannot take responsibility for what happens on the territory of the Russian Federation, he said. They are the ones providing your security, and we will not be offering any guarantees.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Zelenskyy said that he had instructed Ukraines Foreign Ministry to advise foreign delegations against visiting Russia during this period.

Russian flight restrictions

Baltic countries Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, which border Russia and its Kaliningrad exclave, announced plans to close their airspace to the planes carrying Serbias and Slovakias leaders to Moscow this week for the celebrations out of safety concerns, officials there said.

Who could deny that in such a quite active cyber background  that somebody will not use this as a possible provocation to create problems and risks for the flight of these people through the Republic of Lithuania, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said Wednesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, in comments to Russian state TV, called the move a disgrace.

Flight restrictions across Russia because of Ukrainian drone threats, including temporary closures at airports in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Sochi and elsewhere, affected at least 350 flights and at least 60,000 passengers, the Russian Tour Operators Association said.

Russian public holidays in early May, including the days around Victory Day, is a popular time for many Russians to go on vacation and travel abroad.

Xis visit to Russia is his third since the Kremlin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Xi last visited in Moscow in March 2023 on a trip that offered an important political boost to Putin just days after the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for the Russian leader on charges of alleged involvement in abductions of thousands of children from Ukraine. He also traveled to the Russian city of Kazan in September 2024 for a summit of the BRICS bloc of developing economies.

The Kremlin announced Tuesday that Putin will travel to China at the end of August and beginning of September.

Since Russia's all-out invasion of its neighbor, Moscow has drawn closer to China as Western countries have sought to isolate Putin diplomatically. Russia has become increasingly dependent economically on China because of Western sanctions.

Residential buildings hit

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Meanwhile, Russia launched a ballistic missile and a barrage of drones at Ukraine's capital before dawn on Wednesday, killing at least two people in apartment buildings, Ukrainian officials said. Eight people were also wounded in the attack, including four children, the Kyiv City Military Administration said in a post on Telegram.

Russian planes also dropped two glide bombs on a village in Ukraines eastern Donetsk region, killing two women, regional administration head Vadym Filashkin said.

Russia launched a total of four ballistic missiles and 142 drones at Ukraine overnight, Zelenskyy said.

At least one of the ballistic missiles and 28 drones were recorded in Kyiv's airspace, authorities said. Air defense forces shot down the missile and 11 drones.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A five-story residential building in the Shevchenkivskyi district in the center of the capital was hit by drone debris, sparking a fire in several apartments where the victims were found, he said. Four people, including three children, were hospitalized, while others received treatment on site.

In the Sviatoshynskyi district, a fire broke out across multiple upper-floor apartments of a nine-story building after an impact of drone debris, according to the Kyiv City Military Administration. Five people were rescued from the blaze.

___

Michelle L. Price in Washington, Illia Novikov in Kyiv, Ukraine, and Liudas Dapkus in Vilnius, Lithuania, contributed to this report.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

___

Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine

___

A previous version of this story was corrected to change Beijing to Putin being isolated diplomatically by the West.
Russian troops have dropped aerial bombs on the village of Oleksandro-Kalynove in the Illinivka hromada of Donetsk Oblast on 7 May, killing two women. [A hromada is an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town, and their adjacent territories  ed.]

Source: Vadym Filashkin, Head of Donetsk Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram

Quote from Vadym Filashkin: "The Russians dropped two aerial bombs on the village, killing two women aged 47 and 67 this morning."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Details: Filashkin reported that six houses were also damaged.

Aftermath of the Russian attack.

Photo: Vadym Filashkin

The head of Donetsk Oblast Military Administration once again called on residents of frontline hromadas to evacuate while they can.

Aftermath of the Russian attack.

Photo: Vadym Filashkin

Background: Earlier, Filashkin reported that the Russians killed four residents of Donetsk Oblast in Kramatorsk, Poltava, Yablunivka and Sofiivka on 6 May. Another 10 people were injured in the oblast over the day.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
Eight people have been injured and houses, a gas pipeline and a power line have been damaged in Russian guided bomb strikes on the Pokrovske hromada in the Synelnykove district of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast on the evening of 6 May. [A hromada is an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town, and their adjacent territories  ed.]

Source: Serhii Lysak, Head of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram

Quote: "Eight people have been injured. All have been hospitalised, two of them are in a critical condition. Twelve houses, a gas pipeline and a power line have been damaged."

Damaged house

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Photo: Serhii Lysak on Telegram

Details: The Russians also struck the Nikopol district. In particular, they attacked the city of Nikopol and the Pokrovske hromada with a kamikaze drone and shelled them with artillery. Information on the aftermath is being confirmed.

Damaged roof

Photo: Serhii Lysak on Telegram

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
A group of Oklahoma parents, grandparents and teachers is challenging state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters and the state Board of Education in court over the approval process for new social studies standards.

Former Attorney General Mike Hunter is representing the group in the suit, which he filed May 7 and announced at a news conference the same day. The lawsuit contends the board violated its procedures and state law in the way the controversial standards were approved.

The plaintiffs are asking an Oklahoma County District Court judge to review the approval process and determine whether the process was legal. They also plan to seek a temporary restraining order to prevent the standards from going into effect while the legal challenge is pending.

Former Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter, representing a group of Oklahoma citizens including parents, grandparents and educators, announces a legal challenge against the Oklahoma State Board of Education on May 7.

In a statement, Hunter said state law requires the education board to follow its internal rules and procedures in developing, proposing and adopting the standards. He contended the board failed to do so when it approved the standards, violating due process as required by the Oklahoma Administrative Procedures Act.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This lawsuit challenges the legitimacy of the OSBEs adoption of the standards on that basis, Hunter said. Simply put, the OSBE broke its own rules and ignored due process.

The lawsuit addresses public concerns voiced by three new board members who said they felt Walters deceived them by making last-minute additions to the standards without notifying them or the public. The standards the board adopted on Feb. 27 differ from a draft version published on Dec. 19. As one example, the lawsuit points to a section that asks high school students to study claims of discrepancies in the 2020 presidential election.

The legal challenge comes after the Oklahoma Senate declined to act on a resolution that would have rejected the standards, which are also infused with biblical references. Senate Education Committee Chair Sen. Adam Pugh filed the resolution April 24 in response to board members' concerns about the lack of notice of changes in the standards.

More: Senate doesn't act to reject social studies standards that question 2020 election results

From left, board members Ryan Deatherage, Chris VanDenhende, Ryan Walters, Michael Tinney and Sarah Lepak are shown April 24 at the Oklahoma State Board of Education meeting at the Oliver Hodge Building.

Board member Mike Tinney told The Oklahoman in April that hed compared the standards hed downloaded from the Oklahoma State Department of Education website to what Walters sent him, and there were definite differences.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lawsuit alleges the changes made to the standards were not a result of the public comments process.

It also contends board members were not provided with enough time to review the revised standards. They were urged against tabling a vote on the standards after Walters told them the Legislature would have just one day to review them, although lawmakers had until May 1 to take action.

This is a profoundly important undertaking, Hunter said in the news conference. My clients believe the citizens of Oklahoma and the Legislature need to know the facts and the evidence relating to the impropriety around the adoption of the standards."

Plaintiffs in the case include two current educators  Jennie Scott, a public school teacher in Enid, and James Welch IV, a teacher at Putnam City High School. They also include three parents of public school children  Alana Westfall, of Oklahoma County; Lillian Nicole Lang, of Oklahoma County; and Ainsley Hoover, of Tulsa County. Two grandparents of public school children were also named  Diane Ford, of Garfield County, who is a speech pathologist formerly employed by Enid Public Schools, and Jack Ramey, of Garfield County.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They are not seeking monetary damages.

The lawsuit names the state Education Department and the education board, including Walters and its members, as defendants.

In response to the lawsuit, Walters described the legal challenge as an attack "straight from the teachers' union playbook."

Why? Because these standards do something they cant stand: teach students to be proud of America, he said in a statement. These are the most pro-American standards in the nation, rooted in the founding principles that built this country and shaped our state. Thats exactly what Oklahoma parents want their kids to learn.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Ryan Walters, OSBE sued over social studies standards approval process
PORT SUDAN, Sudan, May 6 (Xinhua) -- A long line of cars stretched nearly a kilometer outside a gas station in downtown Port Sudan on Tuesday, as thick plumes of black smoke rose above the city and the sky turned an ominous red.

Just hours earlier, a third round of drone strikes in as many days had targeted key oil facilities and infrastructure, deepening fears of a broader crisis in this Red Sea port.

The Sudanese government blamed the latest wave of strikes on the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a powerful paramilitary group locked in a brutal war with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) since April 2023. The conflict has devastated the country, killing tens of thousands and displacing more than 15 million people, according to international estimates.

Tuesday's attacks struck depots operated by the Nile Petroleum Company near the Transit residential neighborhood, igniting fires that forced residents to evacuate. Another drone hit Bashayer 2 Oil Port, a critical hub for the import and export of petroleum products.

Gasoline shortages quickly followed, triggering panic at fuel stations already struggling to meet demand. "There is a real fear of running out of fuel," said Abdul-Muniem Al-Rabie, a local driver. "We've been here since yesterday trying to refuel. People are scared things will get worse."

The Sudanese Ministry of Energy and Petroleum issued a statement downplaying the risk of a fuel crisis, saying it had contingency plans in place and assuring citizens that supplies remained stable. But on the ground, the mood was anything but calm.

"The sky lit up like it was sunrise," said Zainab Sidiq, a Port Sudan resident. "We woke up to terrifying sounds. People are afraid and thinking of leaving."

Hours after the blasts, Port Sudan's normally busy streets fell quiet amid a citywide blackout. The Sudan Electricity Corporation said the strikes had knocked out the main power transformer, crippling essential services, including hospitals, government offices, and commercial activity. Concerns mounted that the outage could soon affect water distribution and public transportation.

While officials have not confirmed casualties from Tuesday's strikes, the Ministry of Health said it had formed an emergency committee and warned that the attacks "could lead to injuries and loss of life."

Political analyst Ahmed Sirr Al-Khatim said the attacks appeared calculated to cripple Port Sudan's strategic infrastructure, citing hits on oil depots, the international airport, and port facilities. "Targeting these three critical sectors could trigger an unprecedented crisis in transportation, shipping, and fuel services," he said.

Drone strikes earlier in the day also damaged a hotel near the temporary presidential palace and forced the suspension of operations at Port Sudan Airport. Activists shared video footage of dense smoke columns rising above the city, which has now endured drone bombardments for three consecutive days.

The Sudanese government described the attacks as "terrorist drone strikes" by the RSF, which has not responded publicly. Officials claimed the drones and munitions used in the assault were advanced systems only available to "certain countries," and said details on their origins would be released in due course.

In a dramatic escalation, Sudan's National Security and Defense Council announced it was cutting diplomatic ties with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), accusing Abu Dhabi of backing the RSF through the provision of sophisticated weaponry. Defense Minister Yassin Ibrahim Yassin declared the UAE an "aggressor state," alleging its direct involvement in violating Sudanese sovereignty.

The UAE has firmly denied those claims. In April, a UAE Foreign Ministry representative told the International Court of Justice that Sudan's accusations were "utterly baseless."

As drone attacks on military and civilian targets intensify, Port Sudan -- once a rare sanctuary amid Sudan's grinding civil war -- appears increasingly vulnerable. What was once a logistical and administrative center has become a new frontline in a conflict that shows no sign of resolution. 
A proposal to require Oklahoma schools to track students' immigration statuses might not make it through the Legislature.

Without debate on May 7, the Oklahoma Senate Administrative Rules Committee approved a resolution rejecting that proposed rule, as well as some other controversial elements of a rules package prepared by the Oklahoma State Department of Education and state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters.

The committee voted 6-1 to send Senate Joint Resolution 22 to the full Senate. Sen. Micheal Bergstrom, R-Adair, who chairs to committee, said he thinks its resolutions on rule proposals could be heard on the Senate floor as early as next week. The education-related resolution would need to clear the Senate, the House Administrative Rules Committee and the full House, then be signed by Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt, before becoming law.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Republican-controlled Legislature has until May 30 to act on administrative rules proposals. In preparing the rules resolutions, Bergstrom said, We wanted to listen to everyones positions and then take (those) and try to have it where we have something that we can put forward that we felt that be able to be passed and would resolve the issues.

More: Ryan Walters' rules on immigration status, teacher testing go before Oklahoma lawmakers

The most controversial of the rules proposed by the state agency is one that would allow the agency to not just ask schools for the immigration status of students, but of their parents, as well. Another proposed rule that drew strong opposition is one that would require Oklahoma teachers to take the U.S. naturalization test as a requirement for certification or renewal of certification, meaning even veteran teachers would have to take it.

The Senate resolution rejects both of those proposals. During a recent House Administrative Rules Committee meeting led by Rep. Gerrid Kendrix, R-Altus, both Republicans and Democrats voiced objections to those ideas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bergstrom said he discussed the proposals with Kendrix and concluded there was "probably not legislative authority for those rules.

State Sen. Micheal Bergstrom's committee has passed a resolution that would reject controversial administrative rules proposals from the Oklahoma State Department of Education.

Thats our first thing that we look at  is there legislative authority, and then does it follow legislative intent  and then we start looking at the other issues," Bergstrom said.

Stitt, once an ally of Walters, has been outspoken about his stance against the proposed immigration rule, accusing Walters of using immigrant children as political pawns. Referring to the proposal, Stitt has said hes going to do what I can to change that if the rule comes across his desk.

Walters, a Republican, has said his agency would work with federal law enforcement and would support them if they chose to raid Oklahoma schools. During a brief news conference after a January meeting of the Oklahoma State Board of Education, Walters was asked three times if he had any concerns about the trauma such raids might inflict on students. Instead, he talked about supporting law enforcement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A spokeswoman for Walters didnt immediately return a message left May 7 seeking comment on the Senate committees action.

Meyer Siegfried, a spokesman for Stitt, said, "Governor Stitt believes in strengthening immigration laws, deporting criminal aliens, and securing the border, but he also believes we shouldnt be putting schools in the business of policing student immigration status. Its the federal governments job to fix our broken immigration system  not (that of) Oklahoma teachers and principals."

Sen. Michael Brooks-Jimenez, D-Oklahoma City, who works as an immigration attorney, is one of two Democrats on the Senate committee. He voted in favor of the resolution.

"I'm grateful to the floor leader and chair for passing he resolution as filed, which disallowed the most concerning rules," Brooks-Jimenez said. "We urge the governor to follow through on his commitment to ensure that Oklahoma children are not bullied."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bergstrom said he spoke with the governor while preparing the resolution regarding the education rules. He said he expects some debate on the Senate floor regarding the resolution.

I just dont know how intense that will be, Bergstrom said. "Im hoping it wont be too bad.

Two far-right lawmakers weren't in the room for committee vote

The lone no vote on the resolution to reject the controversial proposed rules came from Sen. Kendal Sacchieri, R-Blanchard. When asked for her vote the first time, she paused for several seconds, then said pass. A few moments later, when asked again, she said, Nay.

Just after the vote was recorded, two far-right members of the committee entered the room  the vice chair, Sen. Shane Jett, R-Shawnee, and Sen. Dusty Deevers, R-Elgin. They are two of the four publicly declared members of the Freedom Caucus in the Legislature. Jett and Deevers cast votes on the only other item on the committee's agenda, but not on the resolution regarding the education-related rules.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The path for agency administrative rules to take effect is different from in 2024. That year, a set of administrative rules from Walters agency went into effect without receiving debate, or a vote, on either the House or Senate floors. Stitt then unilaterally approved the rules as part of a package that included all state agencies that had submitted rules proposals.

This year, the rules proposals were divided into six general categories by Bergstrom and Kendrix. Both the House and Senate committees had responsibility to develop resolutions for three rules packages each, with the package of education-related rules assigned to start in the Senate committee.

The rules resolutions, Kendrix said, theoretically would follow the traditional path of a regular legislative bill. If the Legislature takes no action, then its up to Stitt whether or not to approve the rules proposals. Stitt does not have line-item veto authority on administrative rules proposals.

(This article has been updated to add new information.)

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Ryan Walters' immigration rule proposal faces new rejection in Senate
(FOX40.COM)  The Sacramento Police Department is hosting a Community Academy Day on May 17, which allows the community to learn about the agency and meet different members of the department, according to officials with the City of Sacramento.

Video Above: Antelope High senior earns admission to prestigious MIT for fall semester

The event takes place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is open to all community members, but does require registration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To register, email the Sacramento Police Departments Recruiting Team at police_recruiting@pd.cityofsacramento.org. Registration closes on May 12.

This event offers an in depth look at how the police department operates daily to serve the City of Sacramento, said Public Information Officer, Allison Smith. The police department is unique in that it runs 24/7, 365 days a yearand it takes the dedication of sworn and professional staff at every level to make that possible.

Guests will be able to meet the police chief, meet members of various specialized units, see their equipment and take part in interactive scenarios, officials said.

The city stated that the event is perfect for those who are interested in learning how the department operates or those looking for career opportunities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

City of Sacramento to give away mulch

Change remains constant in the city, and the police department is no exception, Smith said. Attendees will gain valuable insight into how the department is evolving to better serve the community.

Anyone with questions can call Sacramento police at (916) 808-0880.

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.
The world is watching nervously after an outbreak of hostilities between India and Pakistan late on Tuesday evening.

At around 9.30pm UK time, the Indian ministry of defence declared that the countrys armed forces had launched air strikes against nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-controlled areas. This military action was confirmed by Pakistan, with the announcement that missiles fired from Indian airspace had struck the cities of Kotli, Muzaffarabad and Bahawalpur.

India says it has launched what it is calling Operation Sindoor in response to an attack on Indian tourists by armed militants near the town of Pahalgam, in Indian-controlled Jammu and Kashmir, a little over two weeks ago. Twenty-eight Indian civilians were killed when gunmen opened fire at a scenic resort, Baisaran, on the afternoon of April 22.

Is it safe to travel to India?

India is a very large country, the worlds seventh biggest  and the current crisis is taking place in its far north, around its disputed border region with Pakistan, in the shadow of the Himalayas. There is a great deal of distance between the conflict zone and some of Indias main tourist destinations. There are, for example, 1,275 miles between Srinagar  the largest city in Jammu and Kashmir  and Mumbai, on the west coast in Maharashtra, and 2,100 miles between Srinagar and Kochi, at the southern tip of the country, in Kerala.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That said, the situation is ongoing, and travellers should keep abreast of the latest news.

Is it safe to travel to Pakistan?

Pakistan is not a mainstream destination for travellers from the UK. Around 270,000 British tourists journey to Pakistan every year, many of them on visits to extended family.

As with India, the situation is tense. The government in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, has called the attack shameful and cowardly, and has said that Pakistan will respond to this at a time and place of its own choosing. Potential travellers should keep themselves informed of any developments.

Indias attacks have triggered an angry response in Pakistan - Shutterstock

Does the Foreign Office advise against travel to India?

At the time of writing, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is not advising British citizens against all travel to India. It has updated its information to reference the ongoing situation in Kashmir, and is now warning against all travel [to] within 10km [six miles] of the India-Pakistan border. It also advises against all travel to the region of Jammu and Kashmir, with the exceptions of Ladakh and the city of Jammu. Its advice against all but essential travel to the north-easterly state of Manipur, on the opposite side of the country, along the border with Myanmar, is a separate issue.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, the FCDO has not adjusted its recommendations on wider travel to India  or issued any instructions against visiting the likes of Delhi, Agra, Kolkata, Mumbai or Goa.

You can read the full FCDO advice page for India here.

Does the Foreign Office advise against travel to Pakistan?

At the time of writing, the FCDO is not advising British citizens against all travel to Pakistan. However, it does advise against travel to a reasonably long list of places within the country, including its border with Afghanistan, as well as the border with India (plus Balochistan province in the south).

You can read the full FCDO advice page for Pakistan here.

Pictures appear to show the mangled fuselage of a downed fighter jet in Srinagar - Getty

Have flights to India and Pakistan been cancelled?

The crisis has had an inevitable effect upon air travel. The impact has been most keenly felt by Asian airlines, including Korean Air and Taiwan-based China Airlines. Both carriers have announced cancellations or the rerouting of flights in the wake of the attack.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lufthansa and Air France had already taken the decision to avoid Pakistani airspace prior to yesterday evenings outbreak of hostilities. This is likely to mean longer flight times.

However, there have been no noticeable flight cancellations by major European airlines.

British Airways currently flies to five cities in India (Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mumbai), as well as to Islamabad. At the time of writing, the airline has not issued a statement about the crisis, or made any indication that flights will be suspended.

Where and what is Kashmir?

Kashmir is a large region at the northern end of the Indian subcontinent, framed by mountain ranges such as the Great Himalayas and the Pir Panjal peaks. It has a long and complicated history, and its precise sovereignty is an ongoing source of disagreement. Since 1947, it has been divided between three different countries: India, Pakistan and China.

Can I cancel my holiday to India or Pakistan?

Travellers with forthcoming holiday plans in India or Pakistan should certainly exercise caution, and keep up to date with the latest developments. However, unless and until the Foreign Office issues formal advice against travel to the country in question, tour operators will not be obliged to offer refunds to customers who wish to cancel their trip.

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.
ANDERSON COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA)  Another chance for Anderson County residents to address the state of their roads may be on the ballot in November.

Anderson County has 1,553 miles of roads, 157 of which are in need of repair.

Weve been ready to start paving and repairing some bridges that have been out for two or three years but we just dont have the funding available, said Matt Hogan, the deputy administrator for the county.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

County leaders unanimously approved to form a committee to look into a capital sales tax referendum on Tuesday night.

They may or may not vote to put out as a referendum at a later time.

Related video: Sales tax referendum to repair Anderson Co. roads fails

The referendum is similar to the transportation tax residents voted not to pass in 2024.

Council members said the difference between the referendum and transportation tax involved a new committee, comprised of six community members.

The committee will designate projects addressed by the sales tax.

Gerritt Beatty is one of six nominee to the committee.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They need a dependable, long term revenue stream to maintain and improve our roads and bridges, Beatty said. The time to act on this is now. Community engagement such as what I am coming forward for, can foster creative solutions to all these problems, and we are eager to assist our leaders in meeting this challenge.

If implemented, the one percent capital sales tax could generate $350 million a year  strictly used for repairing roads and bridges.

A lot of our roads dont meet our current guidelines, like 17-feet wide, Hogan said. Some of our collector roads are too narrow. You have to swerve to get over. Thats a safety issue and we know that, but of course, we dont have the money to fix it.

Leaders said alternatives to the tax would include raising property taxes and vehicle fees, but the county council said thats not enough, as it would only generate a fraction of what is needed to fix the problem.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Were in a hole and we need that type of money  $38 million a year to really dig us out of this hole, said Hogan.

What comes next? County council will have two more readings to go, and the six-person committee will review a priority list of roads and bridges.

Council also voted on first reading on a $292 million budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. Leaders said the budget is still being fine-tuned and must be approved in three readings before the next fiscal year begins on July 1.

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.
Leaders of Utahs capital city voted to add three new city flags, all incorporating designs not allowed through a new state flag law, to sidestep the measure hours before it goes into law.

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall unveiled three new city flag designs to members of the Salt Lake City Council Tuesday evening, as she explained how the city plans to move forward in the wake of HB77 on the eve of the bill becoming law.

The new flags would add the sego lily logo from Salt Lake Citys city flag to the Juneteenth, Progress Pride and transgender flags. All three flags were not included in the list of flags approved to be flown outside of government or in schools. The new flags would not replace the citys primary flag, which was adopted in 2020.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These city flags represent the ideas and principles Salt Lakers know as core tenets  belonging and acceptance, or better stated: Diversity. Equity. Inclusion, she said, sitting next to all four flags in a Salt Lake City Council work session chamber.

I have given this so much thought, and I do not do this lightly. My sincere intent is not to provoke or cause division; my intent is to represent our citys values and honor our dear, diverse residents who make up this beautiful city, she added. Let the sego lily represent the beauty and resilience of everyone who lives here, no matter their race, ethnicity, gender, faith, income or sexual orientation.

Salt Lake City Council members voted Tuesday night to approve the last-second measure. All seven members shared turns explaining their vote after lining up to take a photo in front of the next flags earlier in the day.

Today is an act of love ... for every member of our community, said Councilwoman Sarah Young before the vote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

HB77, which goes into law on Wednesday, lists which flags can be flown at schools and government buildings. U.S., Utah, county, municipal, tribal, military and Olympic flags are among the approved flags, while flags representing the LGBTQ communities and the Juneteenth flag  used to celebrate the holiday where the last slaves were freed after the Civil War  were not included.

Rep. Trevor Lee, R-Layton, the bills sponsor, said the measure is about maintaining political neutrality in public spaces. Those opposed, including Salt Lake City, argued that it targeted certain minority groups and might violate government free speech. The city has flown Juneteenth, Progress Pride and transgender flags outside of City Hall during specific days or months for years.

HB77 became one of the most divisive bills from the 2025 legislative session, as Gov. Spencer Cox put it. The governor ultimately declined to sign the bill but also allowed the bill to go into law, explaining in a letter that it passed with a veto-proof majority.

I continue to have serious concerns with this bill. However, because a veto would be overridden, I have decided to allow the bill to go into law without my signature and urge lawmakers to consider common-sense solutions that address the bills numerous flaws, he wrote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Salt Lake City leaders raised a Pride Progress flag and lit the top of the Salt Lake City-County Building in rainbow colors on the final day of the legislative session. The flag was still flying as of Tuesday, ahead of the new law.

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall stands next to Salt Lake City's four new flags as she addresses reporters inside the Salt Lake City-County Building on Tuesday. | Carter Williams, KSL.com

Behind the scenes, city leaders were reviewing the bill to piece together their next steps. Conversations began days after the session ended, Salt Lake City Council Chairman Chris Wharton said.

City officials came up with the idea to place the sego lily  a symbol of the primary city flag  on all three flags it once flew at some point in those discussions, turning them into city flags.

We simply looked at HB77 and discovered there is, indeed, a way for cities to approve additional official flags, Mendenhall said, noting theres nothing in statute barring a city from having more than one flag and that the state has four official flags.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its unclear what will happen next, but Lee caught wind of the citys move Tuesday evening.

Does Salt Lake City really want to play these games? Good luck! he posted on X.

Sen. Dan McCay, R-Riverton, the bills floor sponsor, posted a photo of a flag with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with a sego lily on X, along with the message: Excited that (the mayor) and (City Council) will also be flying this new SLC flag so that all historic constituents will be seen.

Only two people spoke on the measure during the City Council Tuesday night, both speaking in support of the city.

Mendenhall said she knows retribution is possible, but she said the city wanted to stand up for our values. She contends the measure helps the city stay in compliance with the law while still raising the flags it once did.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Wharton agrees.

These are the flags that have flown above City Hall and Washington Square for years and years, and were just trying to find a way to make that continue, he said. Were not trying to do anything particularly new or exciting.
Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall poses in front of the new adopted city flags. (Courtesy of Salt Lake City)

Hours before a pride flag ban took effect in Utah, three new official Salt Lake City flags emerged, all featuring the white sego lily thats already present in the city banner, but with a few notable substitutions.

One features rainbow colors, similar to the LGBTQ+ flag; another one, light blue, pink and white stripes, similar to the transgender flag; and the last, a bursting star, emulating the Juneteenth flag.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It was already a busy night for Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall, who was scheduled to present her budget proposal to the City Council on Tuesday evening, but with a looming deadline for a new law prohibiting nearly all flags, the council amended its agenda to include a discussion to allow the new city banners.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

But, by turning the pride, transgender and Juneteenth banners into official municipal symbols, the city could sidestep the policy.

As mayor, I have a duty to lawfully uphold the values of our nation, state and our city, Mendenhall said. I know that the values of diversity, equity and inclusion are not only right and just, but they are fundamental to America, even through all its struggles to uphold them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The City Council embraced the change, voting unanimously to adopt the flags.

Its not a coincidence that we have a majority of LGBTQ council, council member Darin Mano said. Its because this is the place within not just Utah, but within many states surrounding us, where people like us feel safe. And I think theres a reason why people like us feel safe to both live here and also raise our hand to be a leader of a community in Salt Lake City, and so this is important and critical for us as a city, but more importantly for the people that live here to know that Salt Lake City continues to be a safe space for everybody.

Other council members commended the mayor for the bold move and called Tuesday a historic moment in the city.

Meanwhile, in neighboring Idaho, which passed a similar flag ban last month, the Boise City Council also voted Tuesday to adopt the pride banner as an official city flag.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This year the Utah Legislature passed HB77, a bill that prohibits schools and government entities from displaying flags unless they are allowed in a prescriptive list that includes the U.S. flag, the state flag, military flags, Olympic flags, college or university flags, and the flags of local cities. Gov. Spencer Cox allowed the bill to become law without his signature, effectively banning pride flags from being displayed in public buildings starting this Wednesday.

Legislative leaders expressed disappointment in the citys action with House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper, calling it a clear waste of time and taxpayer resources.

This law is about keeping government spaces neutral and welcoming to all. Salt Lake City should focus on real issues, not political theatrics, Schultz said in a statement.

Senate President Stuart Adams, R-Layton, also described the mayors decision as disappointing, saying it diverts time and resources away from real pressing community needs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its disappointing that Salt Lake City is diverting time and resources away from real pressing community needs in an attempt to bypass state law, Adams said in a statement. The intent of this bill is to help ensure that government buildings remain neutral, focused on serving the public and welcoming to all.

New official Salt Lake City flags, unveiled a few hours before the enactment of a law banning most flags from schools and other public buildings (Courtesy of Salt Lake City)

After the flags were unveiled, Sen. Dan McCay, R-Riverton, who sponsored the bill in the Senate, made three montages of flags mocking Salt Lake Citys action; one with a symbol of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, an Israel flag, and one that reads MAGA Country.

Proud of Erin for being so inclusive with the new 365.25 flag initiative, McCay wrote on X.

Rep. Trevor Lee, R-Layton, the main sponsor of the bill, said in another post, Does Salt Lake City really want to play these games? Good luck!

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The remarks quickly made it to the City Council chambers with council member Victoria Petro challenging Utahns to demand better after reading the comments.

Let us know what you think...

This is our future. We are the fastest growing state in the nation. We have 45 guaranteed legislative days a year, and more time was spent on flags and bike lanes in the capital city than homelessness or the drying Great Salt Lake. Demand better, she said. This cannot be a policy arms race for one viewpoint, for one culture war side to triumph over another. Bad policy demands bad outcomes for that policy.

Mendenhall said that it isnt new for the city, a blue dot, to be in conflict with the Legislatures Republican majority that approved HB77. However, the country is designed to be able to navigate conflict, she added.

We can decide to disagree respectfully or disagree better, as our good governor often says, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The passage of the bill, she said, made city officials reflect on whether the regular blue and white Salt Lake City banner represents Utahs capital. Instead of flying a single flag, the city would represent its values with banners that have normally flown every year of her administration.

I have given this so much thought, and I do not do this lightly, and my sincere intent is not to provoke or cause division, Mendenhall said. My intent is to represent our citys values and honor our dear diverse residents who make up this beautiful city and the legacy of pain and progress that they have endured.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
UPDATE: 5/6/25 at 5:16 p.m.

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  The Salt Lake City Council voted to approve the addition of three new city flags that feature LGBTQ+ and Juneteenth designs.

The council, meeting late Tuesday evening, passed the measure unanimously to add three new flags as official flags to Salt Lake City. This was done to bring the city under code with the recently passed H.B. 77 flag bill, while also showing support for diversity, Mayor Mendenhall put said.

Our City flags are powerful symbols representing Salt Lake Citys values, Mendenhall said. I want all Salt Lakers to look up at these flags and be reminded that we value diversity, equity, and inclusionleaving no doubt that we are united as a city and people, moving forward together.

In a press release given after the passage, each flag was given a name which were as follows:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Sego Celebration Flag, representing the history of Juneteenth and the Citys Black and African American residents;

The Sego Belonging Flag, representing the Citys LGBTQIA residents and broader acceptance of this community; and

The Sego Visibility Flag, representing the Citys transgender residents and a commitment to seeing and celebrating their lives.

The passage comes a day before H.B. 77, which is set to take effect tomorrow, along with several bills from the 2025 General Session. Rep. Trevor Lee (R-Layton), the bills sponsor, took to X, formerly known as Twitter, and said, Does Salt Lake City really want to play these games? Good luck!

The bills Senate sponsor, Sen. Dan McCay (R-Riverton), also posted regarding the city action, posting pictures that he said would help other groups feel seen. Posting an edited picture of the Salt Lake City flag with a logo from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Israel, and a Trump flag.

It is currently unclear if Salt Lake City will face any litigation due to the passage of these new flags. According to H.B. 77, the State Auditors Office is tasked with the enforcement of the flag ban, which only allows the display of certain flags on government property.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These include:

U.S. flag

Utah state flag

Flags of other countries, states, or cities

Flags for colleges and universities

Military flags

Flags of Native American tribes

National League of Families POW/MIA flag

Olympic flags

Public school flags

If public entities violate this, the Auditor is tasked with fining the entity $500 per infraction, per day until the flag is removed.

ABC4.com has reached out to the State Auditors Office for a comment and has yet to receive a reply.

ORIGINAL STORY:

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  A day before Utahs new ban on certain flags at schools and government buildings, including Pride flags, Salt Lake Citys Council presented three new potential city flags, representing LGBTQIA+ communities and the Juneteenth holiday.

The flags, presumably, dont violate Utahs new law prohibiting political flags because theyre set to be adopted as official city flags.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bill banning pride flags from schools passes Utah Legislature

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall presented the ordinance and designs to the council in a work session on Tuesday. The new flags feature the citys traditional Sego Lily on variations of the Juneteenth flag, the Progress Pride flag, and the transgender visibility flag.

She said when the law passed, the council looked at it closely to understand how they could abide by it, while still representing Salt Lakers and their values.

As mayor, I have a duty to lawfully uphold the values of our nation, state, and our city. I know that the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion are not only right and just, but they are fundamental to America, even through all its struggles to uphold them, she said. I am not interested in any debate about the rightness of these values; they are American, they are ours, and they are right. How they are implemented is the only matter in question.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mendenhall said that these flags have been flown over Washington Square throughout the years shes served as mayor, adding its a sight shes proud of.

They represent our American values, sewn in color and cloth. In lieu of this defining legislation, I have determined that when it comes to representing our citys values, I know we can do more than fly a single flag. Three more, to be precise, she said.

The council is set to vote on them at their formal council meeting.

H.B. 77 Flag Display Amendments passed the Utah Legislature in March, in effect, creating a ban on Pride, Juneteenth, and other political flags in schools and government properties. It is set to take effect on May 7.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The law doesnt ban the Pride flag specifically, rather, it lists approved flags that can be flown, including:

U.S. flag

Utah state flag

Flags of other countries, states, or cities

Flags for colleges and universities

Military flags

Flags of Native American tribes

National League of Families POW/MIA flag

Olympic flags

Public school flags

Historic versions of flags, like the U.S. and Utah, would also be allowed, and flags displayed as part of the curriculum or for educational purposes are also allowed.

Its not the first response Salt Lake City has had to the Pride flag ban. The day after the legislature passed the law, the city lit up its building in rainbow colors.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The flag bills sponsor, Rep. Trevor Lee, (R  Layton), has threatened anyone who tries to subvert the law. In early April, he posted on X a response to a video purported to be a Utah teacher sharing pride symbols.

While my bill just covers the flags. HB281 will cover all these other symbols or anything purposely trying to subvert the law. Classrooms and taxpayer entities should always be politically neutral, he wrote.

ABC4.com called Lee for a statement following the announcement, to which he said, Its not going to go well for them, nice try.

Mendenhall told ABC4 that these flags are meant to include and not divide.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These flags are about inclusion, acceptance, and unity. That is what they are about. Those are the values of this city, and I believe they are the values of this nation, she said.

Project Rainbow Utah, which works to promote LGBTQ+ visibility and distribute Pride flags around the state, sent a statement to ABC4. The organization said it has heard from the community on how much a show of support, like a flag, can mean.

Being an ally requires actions as well as words, so we salute Salt Lake City for showing up for LGBTQ+ Utahns, said Jacey Thornton, Project Rainbow Utah Executive Director.

Project Rainbow Utah said they have heard concerns from Utahns about being able to fly Pride flags at their homes and businesses, and they want to reiterate that H.B. 77 only applies to government property and schools.

Latest headlines:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
People march following a Pride rally at the Utah State Capitol Friday, June 2, 2023, in Salt Lake City. Rick Bowmer, File via Associated Press

Salt Lake City has adopted three new flags in an attempt to skirt around the states ban on flying the LGBTQ+ flag and others at public state buildings.

On Tuesday, the Salt Lake City Council adopted the three new flags in a formal meeting. The three flags are versions of Salt Lake Citys official flag featuring a sego lily. There is the Sego Celebration Flag, which represents Juneteenth; the Sego Belonging Flag, representing LGBTQIA residents; and the Sego Visibility Flag, for transgender residents.

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall said the flags are powerful symbols representing the citys values.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I want all Salt Lakers to look up at these flags and be reminded that we value diversity, equity and inclusionleaving no doubt that we are united as a city and people, moving forward together, Mendenhall said in a news release.

Earlier this year, Utah banned LGBTQ flags from being displayed in public schools or government buildings. LGBTQ advocates called it government overreach at its worst and said the law strips the right to support and affirm diverse communities.

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox (R) allowed the bill to go into law even though he had serious concerns about it. In a letter addressed to Utah legislators, Cox wrote that the bill focuses too much on flags alone and does little to prevent other displays, like posters, signs, etc.

To those legislators who supported this bill, Im sure it will not fix what you are trying to fix, Cox wrote in a letter.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Salt Lake City Council chair Chris Wharton praised the three new flags.

Like other civic symbols, these flags reflect our shared humanity and the values that help everyone feel they belongno matter their background, orientation or beliefs, Wharton said in a statement. While the state has restricted which flags public buildings can fly, Im glad we can still uphold our communitys values within the law.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated which government implemented the flag ban.

Related...
By Wladimir Pantaleone and Giselda Vagnoni

PORTICELLO, Italy (Reuters) -The recovery of British tech tycoon Mike Lynch's superyacht from the waters off the coast of northern Sicily is expected to begin within the next two weeks to help shed light on how a supposedly unsinkable vessel disappeared into the sea last August.

The 56-metre-long (184-foot) Bayesian, with its majestic single 72-metre mast, was moored off the small port of Porticello when it was likely hit by a downburst, a very strong downward wind, in the early hours of August 19.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Bayesian capsized and sank from the stern in the space of 16 minutes, killing seven people, including Lynch and his daughter Hannah. Since then, the ship owned by the Lynch family has been lying on its starboard side at a depth of 49 metres.

The other six passengers, including Lynchs wife Angela Bacares, and nine crew members survived.

The tragedy has attracted international attention because of the fame of Lynch, known as "The Bill Gates of Britain".

The shipwreck has also puzzled naval marine experts.

The 534-tonne Bayesian, built in 2008 by yacht manufacturer Perini Navi, now owned by the Italian Sea Group, should have withstood the storm and, in any case, should not have sunk as quickly as it did, experts say.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

MAST TO BE CUT BEFOREHAND

Italian prosecutors, who are investigating the yacht's captain and two other crew members for potential manslaughter, said their investigation will not be completed before the ship is lifted and inspected.

They summoned lawyers for all parties involved and technical advisers to Porticello on Wednesday to oversee salvage operation.

"I don't think (the lifting) is going to be decisive for the investigations, but it's certainly important," said Mario Bellavista, a lawyer for the family of Recaldo Thomas, the onboard cook who died in the shipwreck.

He told journalists in Porticello that raw data from on-board equipment that has already been extracted from the wrecked yacht, including video surveillance cameras and navigation systems, will be shared with lawyers in June.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The consortium picked to salvage the yacht, led by UK-based consultancy TMC Marine and featuring a joint venture between Dutch companies HEBO Maritiemservice and Smit Salvage, plans to cut the mast before raising the vessel.

"Subject to progress on site and suitable weather and sea conditions, work will then progress to right and ultimately lift Bayesian, in around 10-12 days from now," TMC Marine said in a statement on Thursday.

Preparatory works are already being conducted offshore from a 700-square-metre floating platform. An underwater robot is surveying the Bayesian, whose tanks contain 18,000 litres of diesel.

The vessel is expected to be brought to the surface by HEBO Lift 10, one of Europe's most powerful floating cranes, and then taken to Termini Imerese, about 40 kilometres east of Palermo.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

HUMAN ERRORS OR DESIGN FLAWS?

The CEO of Italian Sea Group, Giovanni Costantino, blamed the sinking on a series of "indescribable, unreasonable errors" by the crew, and ruled out any design or construction flaws.

"The impossible happened on that boat ... but it went down because it took on water. From where, the investigators will tell," he said in an interview with Reuters in August.

According to a prosecutors' document seen by Reuters, the night watch crewman, Matthew Griffiths, is suspected of failing to notice the worsening weather conditions, while the other sailor under investigation, Timothy Parker Eaton, was allegedly late in spotting that the boat was taking in water from the back.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Both did not promptly warn Captain James Cutfield, who, in turn, is suspected of not taking all the necessary measures to deal with the emergency and not adequately warning passengers of the danger.

The three suspects have not commented publicly on the allegations.

Another yacht that was anchored near the Bayesian survived intact.

Karsten Borner, the captain of that vessel, said the Bayesian flipped on its side and sank within minutes.

(Reporting by Waldimir Pantaleone in Porticello, additional reporting and writing by Giselda Vagnoni in Rome, editing by Alvise Armellini and Keith Weir)
KHARTOUM, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Sudan's government said on Tuesday it would sever diplomatic relations with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and withdraw its ambassador, declaring the UAE an "aggressor state."

Defense Minister Yassin Ibrahim Yassin, speaking on state television, accused Abu Dhabi of violating Sudan's sovereignty through its "proxy," the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia.

He said the decision was prompted by what Sudan claims is UAE military backing of the RSF, including the supply of advanced weapons used in recent drone and missile strikes on Port Sudan's port, airport, and power stations.

Sudan's statement said the escalation in Port Sudan "threatens regional and international security, in particular security in the Red Sea," and invoked Article 51 of the UN Charter to reserve Sudan's right to self-defense.

It said Sudan "reserves the right to respond to the aggression by every means to preserve the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity."

The move comes amid a two-year-old civil war between the regular army (SAF) and the RSF that began in April 2023 over the transition to civilian rule. The fighting has shattered cities and displaced millions.

The United Nations says more than half of Sudan's 46 million people -- about 25 million -- need emergency aid, and famine has been confirmed in several areas, such as Darfur. Rights groups say tens of thousands have been killed and roughly 15 million people displaced by the conflict.

The UAE has repeatedly denied the Sudanese allegations of arming the RSF. A UAE foreign ministry official told the International Court of Justice in April that claims of UAE complicity were "utterly baseless."

Sudan's defense council statement nonetheless branded the UAE's actions a "clear act of aggression" and made clear Khartoum would respond if attacked. No immediate response was reported from the RSF.

Internationally, the recent bombardment of Port Sudan has drawn condemnation from Egypt and Saudi Arabia and concern from the United Nations. Humanitarian organizations warn that the attacks and ongoing fighting are worsening Sudan's crisis, with the Red Cross highlighting that intensive drone strikes and power cuts are exacerbating a catastrophe in which millions of people have fled their homes. 
SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) A chant of San Angelo Gives! echoed across the Concho Valley on Tuesday as the annual 24-hour online giving event marked its 11th year.

Organized by the San Angelo Area Foundation, San Angelo Gives is aimed at raising funds for nonprofit organizations across the region. Since its inception, the event has brought in $26 million to support local causes.

Over 11 years weve raised $26 million for causes across the Concho Valley, so thats really incredible for a community our size, said Janet Karcher of the San Angelo Area Foundation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Our community has really rallied around organizations so they can deliver the services that are so important.

Last year, the event raised $4 million, and organizers hope to surpass that this year. A total of 265 nonprofits are participating.

Among them is the Open Arms Advocacy Center, which supports survivors of sexual violence and offers support to the LGBTQ+ community.

We want to say thank you for supporting us throughout the years, said Tammy Sanchez of Open Arms.

This is my sixth year with San Angelo Gives and we couldnt do it without the support of our community.

Jennie Wagner, also with Open Arms, echoed the appreciation: Always showing up for survivors, always showing up for us. We couldnt be more thankful.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Organizations focused on health services also count on the days donations to keep critical programs running.

We serve people with disabilities throughout the Concho Valley and surrounding counties, said Dana from Disability Connections. We help to empower people with disabilities to maintain or gain independence.

Abby Rollwietz with the San Angelo Cancer Association added, This day alone is so important for all the organizations in the community. Thank you to everyone who has donated.

School and arts groups are also benefiting. Theresa Cortez of the CTX Performing Arts Center Committee said the group is excited to participate for the first time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We have a five-year goal to break ground and build this buildingbut we need everyones help to do it, Cortez said.

Community outreach groups such as The Salvation Army rely heavily on the event.

I want to say thank you to our community, said Maj. Adriana Martinez. Without you, we couldnt be here and we couldnt provide the services that we do.

Donations can be made through San Angelo Gives until 11:59 p.m. Tuesday.

No matter the size of the gift$10, $10,000 or even $100,000combined together in one single day, it truly can make an impact, Karcher said.

Even if its a dollar, anything counts, added Amber Merino of the San Angelo Early Childhood Center. So bring us the money.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan released her offices annual report Tuesday, touting new programs and initiatives plus the number of felony crimes prosecuted last year.

This past year, we obtained justice for victims of domestic violence, human trafficking, hate crimes, organized retail theft, fentanyl poisoning, environmental and consumer fraud, elder fraud, sexual predators and many more, DA Stephan stated.

In 2024, the DAs office prosecuted more than 2,600 assaults, including stalking, making it the crime with the highest number of felony prosecutions in the report.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

5 arrested after deadly smuggling incident off San Diego coast; girl remains missing

Drug-related offenses came in second at 1,320 prosecutions in the county, and theft/embezzlement at third with just over 960.

The report also mentioned several highly publicized cases, including that of former TikTok star, Ali Abulaban, the man convicted of murdering his wife, Ana, and her new partner, Rayburn Barron in an East Village high-rise apartment.

Abulaban, who went by the name JinnKid on TikTok, fell from grace when a jury of 12 found him guilty of two counts of first-degree murder last May. In September, he was sentenced to a total prison term of 50 years-to-life plus two terms of life without the possibility of parole.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Also mentioned in the report was the case of Christopher Schmittel, a 19-year-old who was convicted of killing two people and injuring two others after crashing onto Torrey Pines State Beach.

Prior to the crash, authorities said Schmittel was driving between 100 and 130 miles an hour through Riverside, Orange and San Diego counties  all while under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, Xanax and what were believed to be psychedelic mushrooms.

In addition to the cases of Abulaban and Schmittel, the DA detailed five other significant cases in the annual report.

DA Stephan also highlighted new programs and initiatives launched by her office last year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They included SCOPE, a new program in East County for people suffering from substance use disorder and severe mental illness who would normally not qualify for Drug Court or Behavioral Health Court.

The DAs Office formed a historic partnership with the Attorney General of the Mexican State of Baja California, the State of Baja California Justice Center for Women and the DAs One Safe Place: The North County Family Justice Center.

The partnership allows victims of domestic violence and other crimes to access services on either side of the U.S.-Mexico border to ensure safety where they are most comfortable getting help.

Another achievement highlighted in the report was regarding the topic of public camping ordinances as a way to combat homelessness in the county.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In City of Grants Pass v. Johnson, the DAs Appellate Division wrote amicus briefs about the impact of the U.S. Supreme Courts decision on public camping bans locally in San Diego County.

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Investigation under the DAs Office completed more than 33,000 investigative tasks, conducted over 2,900 interviews and executed 445 search warrants last year.

The DAs annual report for 2024 is linked here in its entirety.

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.
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  Remote job postings in San Francisco have fallen 71%, according to a report in the San Francisco Business Times. The drop is reportedly in part due to emerging artificial intelligence firms and their preference for in-person work, the Business Times said, citing Paramount Group, which operates and manages office properties in SF.

In its quarterly earnings report, Paramount said that while San Franciscos office market conditions remain challenging, there has been a steady uptick in leasing inquiries.

A lukewarm job market, particularly in the layoff-ravaged tech sector, has also seen employers regain some leverage while the return-to-office push has gained steam over the past few months.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Michelin-star restaurant blames San Francisco economy for closure

Google recently told some remote workers they would have to start reporting to the closest office again, or risk losing their jobs. SF-based rideshare service Uber also reportedly told workers they would have to begin reporting to the office a minimum of three days a week, an increase from the two days employees were previously required to be there.

San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie has also instructed city workers to begin reporting to the office four days a week, although the date for enacting that policy has now been pushed back until August.

According to the Business Times, the drop in SF remote work listings has taken place over the past three years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
A group of senators, led by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), is urging media conglomerate Paramount Global to not settle a lawsuit brought against it by President Trump.

Trumps suit, which is in connection with a 60 Minutes segment featuring an interview with then-Vice President Kamala Harris, serves as a blatant attempt to intimidate the media and those who speak out against him, the senators wrote in a letter first reported by Semafor and obtained by The Hill.

Rewarding Trump with tens of millions of dollars for filing this bogus lawsuit will not cause him

to back down on his war against the media and a free press, the lawmakers wrote. It will only embolden him to shakedown, extort and silence CBS and other media outlets that have the courage to report about issues that Trump may not like.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lawyers for Paramount and the president reportedly began settlement talks last week, a development that has roiled staffers at CBS News and led to widespread concern the company is trying to curry favor with the administration.

Paramount, previously said the presidents lawsuit was an affront to the First Amendment and is without basis in law or fact, and that he is trying to punish a news organization for constitutionally protected editorial judgments they do not like.

Paramount is currently trying to push through a mega-merger with film giant Skydance, a deal worth billions that will need approval from Trump regulators.

The saga led to the resignation of a top 60 Minutes producer last week, even while the program has continued its probing coverage of the Trump administration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last month, Trump said CBS should lose their license after 60 Minutes segments on Ukraine and Greenland.

We urge you and the board of directors at Paramount to make it clear to President Trump today that Paramount will not surrender to his attack on the First Amendment, the senators wrote. Stand up for freedom of the press and our democracy. Do not capitulate to this dangerous move to authoritarianism.

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.
SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV)  Two Savannah Alderwoman were at a press conference Tuesday, addressing what one called corruption within the city of the Savannah from the police department to the government as a whole.

Bernetta Lanier (District 1) was joined by Alderwoman Alicia Miller-Blakely (Post 2 At-Large).

I am tired of being muzzled. I do not want to be a part of a city council and government with a gang mentality, said Alderwoman Lanier.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lanier addressed a list of 16 grievances in Johnson Square ranging from poor infrastructure in Savannahs West Side, affordable housing failures, and traffic concerns, to name a few.

She said when she brought these concerns to City Manager Jay Melder, she was told to keep quiet.

Alderwoman Alicia Miller-Blakeley and I were told when we met with the city manager, in essence, to shut up and dont spread any rumors. It sounded to me like shut up and dribble, said Lanier.

Lanier began her speech alleging high ranking members of the Savannah Police Department (SPD) are breaking laws.

There are charges of DUI, theft, and inappropriate sexual relations among leaders and top brass. This information has been brought among ranking file officers who cry out on a regular basis, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In statement from Savannah Mayor Van Johnson, he said some of these criminal accusations against SPD officers are false, including an allegation Asst. Chief Robert Gavin was stopped for DUI in Bloomingdale.

Lanier also spoke to what she calls a critical staffing problem not just within SPD but within the city.

Two examples: SPD is down approximately 135 officers, and the code compliance office has struggled to retain employees for some reason, she said.

However, a spokesperson for SPD told WSAV that SPD is down 113 officers, adding three new recruits Monday.

Another issue she addressed was what Lanier calls the misplacement of the new SPD Northwest Precinct on Dooley Ave., an area she says should be designated for a grocery store and affordable housing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For years residents of the West Side have anticipated having housing returned to Dooley Avenue that was once a part of the brickyard community, said Lanier.

In the same statement, Mayor Johnson said he is disappointed in Laniers comments.

Mayor Van Johnson responded to Laniers comments Tuesday:

ResponseToLanierComments5625Download

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.
A wave of authoritarian populism has flooded many parts of the world. It has common attributes while simultaneously being specific to a given countrys political culture, society and vulnerabilities.

In the United States, the great flooding wave of authoritarian populism manifests in the form of Trumpism, MAGA and the larger neofascist anti-democracy movement. Its origins include but are not limited to (much earned) rage at the elites and the ruling class, extreme wealth and income inequality. There is also sclerotic social mobility, a society that is undergoing rapid demographic and other changes, globalization and the neoliberal gangster capitalist order, a sense that the American Dream for most is dying if not dead, future shock and the rise of social media, AI, and other digital culture(s), technofeudalism, loneliness and social atomization, a decline in happiness, a larger crisis of personal meaning and aggrieved entitlement.

And of course, the central role played by conspiracism and conspiracy theories in the Age of Trump and the countrys democracy crisis cannot be minimized. The feeling that there are sinister forces who are manipulating the countrys politics and society in secret and that the everyday American has little to no defense against them except to embrace demagogues who promise I alone can fix it! is both a cause and effect of Americas democracy crisis and rising authoritarianism (and increasingly naked fascism).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The forces that summoned up the Age of Trump are not new; they have much deeper, decades- and centuries-old origins in some of the worst aspects of American political life, society, and national character.

As historian Richard Hofstadter warned in his seminal 1964 essay The Paranoid Style in American Politics:

American politics has often been an arena for angry minds. In recent years we have seen angry minds at work mainly among extreme right-wingers, who have now demonstrated in the Goldwater movement how much political leverage can be got out of the animosities and passions of a small minority. But behind this I believe there is a style of mind that is far from new and that is not necessarily right-wing. I call it the paranoid style simply because no other word adequately evokes the sense of heated exaggeration, suspiciousness, and conspiratorial fantasy that I have in mind....The paranoid style is not confined to our own country and time; it is an international phenomenon. This glimpse across a long span of time emboldens me to make the conjectureit is no more than thatthat a mentality disposed to see the world in this way may be a persistent psychic phenomenon, more or less constantly affecting a modest minority of the population. But certain religious traditions, certain social structures and national inheritances, certain historical catastrophes or frustrations may be conducive to the release of such psychic energies, and to situations in which they can more readily be built into mass movements or political parties.

In an effort to better understand the relationship between conspiracy culture and Americas democracy crisis, why such beliefs are so compelling (and radicalizing) to so many people, and how the rise of Trumpism and MAGA can be tracked back to the Oklahoma City Bombing 30 years ago and the conspiracist culture of the 1990s (and before) I recently spoke with Phil Tinline.

The author of "The Death of Consensus," which was chosen as The Times (London)s Politics Book of the Year, Tinline spent 20 years working for the BBC, where he made and presented many acclaimed documentaries about how political history shapes our lives. Tinline's new book is "Ghosts of Iron Mountain: The Hoax of the Century, Its Enduring Impact, and What It Reveals About America Today."

How are you feeling right now in this time of global democracy crisis and authoritarian populism, specifically the rise of Trumpism? How are you making sense of this?

Trying to keep up with the new Trump administration and the implications of its actions is disorientating and exhausting. Ive spent a lot of time over the last 20 years researching the history of the fear that democracy is about to die, mainly in the UK but also in the U.S. Historically, we have worried about this many times without our nightmares coming to life. This led me to be very wary of people airily predicting that democracy was finished, and made me alive to the way that, paradoxically, such nightmares can actually damage democracy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But since Trumps speech at the airport in Waco, Texas, two years ago, and especially since January this year, Ive been forced to the conclusion  as many others have  that constitutional democracy in America really is now under severe threat. I hope that, as has happened before, this crisis will force politicians to break free from old taboos and find more effective ways to restore ordinary Americans trust that democracy can make their lives better  and then to actually deliver on that.

[Last] month [was] the 30th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing. I remember watching the news on that horrible afternoon when the Oklahoma City bombing took place. It was beautiful outside, and the breaking news alert flashed. I remember exactly where I was and what I was doing. 9/11 evoked similar feelings. The reporters and commentators immediately concluded it was a foreign attack. I told one of my friends, No way. This is American-made. These are domestic terrorists."

I grew up listening to late-night AM Talk Radio and shows such as Art Bells Coast to Coast AM, reading zines and the alternative and underground media, and chasing down other such sources of information. In some key ways, the Oklahoma City bombing and the right-wing conspiracy culture that birthed it connect directly to the Age of Trump.

I remember that day too. I also remember reading a long article about the Branch Davidians and Waco two years earlier  at the time, it was one of the creepiest things Id ever read. It was striking that the Oklahoma City bombing happened on the second anniversary, which was April 19 and the anniversary of the start of the American Revolution with the Battles of Lexington and Concord.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Because of your knowledge of conspiracist texts, you immediately thought that it was a homegrown attack. That was also the first thought of both an FBI profiler and Milton William Cooper, the author/compiler of the conspiracy theory compendium, "Behold a Pale Horse." Or rather, Cooper thought that it was a "false flag" attack staged on the anniversary of Waco to smear the militia movement.

Im struck by how the conspiracy theories which contended that the federal government played some sort of role in the Oklahoma City attack  which of course killed some of its own employees  do not seem to have stuck as hard as the equivalent theories about the assassination of JFK.

Looking back, its not difficult to see some of the roots of todays politics in the 1990s, and its a worthwhile exercise, but the roots go much deeper than that.

How does your expertise in politics and conspiracy theories inform your understanding of Americas current democracy crisis and the Age of Trump and MAGA?

I try not to get too stuck on party labels. I try to focus on the broad ideological traditions and the abiding fears that shape them. With that in mind, I think its sometimes useful to read U.S. politics as not simply left versus right, or Democrats vs. Republicans, so much as a three-way split between alienated elements on the left and the right who dislike each other, but also have a shared antipathy to the center.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Id argue that political conspiracy theories are generally stories about power. People invest in them as a way to process and explain why they feel disempowered or defeated, especially when that defeat is a shock. I think this helps make sense of why left-wing conspiracy theories about the state in the 1960s and 1970s have something in common with right-wing conspiracy theories about the state in the 1990s and ever since.

However, I wouldnt want to overdo this. There are huge differences as well between the fears of the left and right, and its demonstrably clear that right-wing extremists have killed far more of their fellow citizens. Its also striking that the phenomenon of conspiracy theory beliefs being triggered by shocking defeats is not something from which the political center is immune, as we were reminded after both Trumps first election and Brexit in the UK.

I have copies of many of the classic conspiracy theory texts. Your new book examines one of those classics from the 1960s, "Report from Iron Mountain." What compelled you to write a book on the origins and cultural and political impact of that conspiracy theory? Why now?

"Report from Iron Mountain" is a 1967 anti-war satire that claimed to be a leaked top-secret Pentagon-commissioned report  the subject of my new book, "Ghosts of Iron Mountain." The Report warned that if permanent global peace broke out, it would wreck the U.S. economy, and that the social effects of war would have to be replaced with eugenics, slavery, fake UFO scares, polluting the environment and blood games. When this was published, many people thought it was real. The satirists eventually confessed, but the hoax fitted so convincingly with how many people felt American power really worked that they refused to believe it wasnt real.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ever since the 1990s, "Iron Mountain" has been embraced by some on the far-right and in the militia movement as proof of the evil of what we now call the deep state; videos from the 1990s insisting that the Iron Mountain report was real still circulate online today. And as I argue in my new book, this case reveals how falling for stories that confirm your prior beliefs doesnt just make you look like a fool. It can do serious political damage too. The Iron Mountain story revealed a shared left-right anger at the way the powerful treat ordinary Americans because it made sense of their feelings of disempowerment.

The story of "Report from Iron Mountain" and its strange afterlife caught my imagination for two reasons. First, because we know for certain that it is fiction. I have a copy of the contract, which refers to it as the "EACE HOAX BOOK." And second, because it slipped from being a 1960s left-wing satirical hoax to being the basis of 1990s right-wing conspiracy theories.

This was an enticing way to explore three things at once, all through telling what I hope is a compelling story. There were similarities and differences between left- and right-wing fears of centralized power. Then the slippery borderland between fact and fiction, and the perils of ignoring just how slippery it is. Finally, it also brought back my memories of the way that the 1990s were absolutely haunted by the 1960s, as the boomers took power, the end of the Cold War left some Americans politically disoriented, and the memory of Vietnam still refused to fade.

And the fact that some people still believe its real, even now, just clinched it.

What makes for a "good" i.e. enduring and believable conspiracy theory?

Enduring and believable conspiracies are the ones that play on our fears, the stories we tell ourselves, and how far we are willing to go to accept what feels as if versus what actually is.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As I write in "Ghosts of Iron Mountain," the tale of 'Report from Iron Mountain' offers a warning about the consequences that await if you dont keep an eye on the line between your deep story about how power works, and what the facts support. And conspiratorial thinking thats appropriated "the Report" drew on what was already a longstanding nightmare on the American Right: the fear of one-world government, and how it might take over the US. Their fears were incredibly detailed and specific, and they power a deep undercurrent of paranoia that has resurfaced today.

"Report from Iron Mountain" is an example of a co-opting of a satire as evidence of government evil, which offers unusually clear evidence of just how powerful narrative can be. Of how it facilitates the triumph of what feels real over what we know to be factually true. And of how hard it can be to overcome this  even long before the advent of social media. Its an inarguable case of a clear, proven hoax being taken as truth, meaning it allows us to trace the exact logical leaps its promoters made and offers a template for how conspiracy theorists think about the power of federal government. And thats why its remained such an important and telling example of American conspiratorial thinking today.

What is the difference between conspiracy theories and conspiracism? Too often, the news media and other political commentators and public voices (and the general public) talk about conspiracies when what they really mean is conspiracism. The distinction matters. How does this relate to the Age of Trump and authoritarian populism?

It is vital not to use "conspiracies" as a synonym for "conspiracy theories," or for "conspiracism." Real conspiracies often occur, but they tend to be structurally quite different from what the theories claim. As the scholar of folklore Timothy Tangherlini and his colleagues at UCLA showed in a research paper in 2020, actual conspiracies tend to involve strong bonds between a relatively few players, whereas conspiracy theories tend to be much more loose and sweeping. This makes real conspiracies hard to investigate, which means they often emerge gradually through painstaking reporting, whereas conspiracy theories are often constructed very swiftly in reaction to a shocking event.

Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course.

Conspiracism is the way of thinking that underpins belief in conspiracy theories, centered on the belief that there is a malignant, all-powerful, invisible force controlling crucial aspects of our lives.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump has long drawn on this to play on Americans sense of disempowerment and direct it against the supposedly tyrannical deep state. Trump won by claiming to be the populist champion of the rage that many ordinary Americans feel against the uncaring, distant elites who have humiliated them for years. This feeds into the fear of dark forces at the core of the state that have spread since the 1960s. The great ironic twist is that having drawn on conspiracist narratives about the centralization and misuse of power, he is now moving aggressively to centralize and misuse power himself.

Contrary to what those outside of that community, the normal politics types, would like to believe, people who have a serious belief in conspiracy theories/conspiracism are not necessarily dumb or stupid. Moreover, there is social psychology and other research that shows that they tend to be of above-average intelligence and have some college training because internalizing and making sense of conspiracy theories is cognitively demanding. Mockery is not an effective way of intervening against conspiracy theories/conspiracism and those who are seriously committed to them.

I agree that conspiracy theorists may well be highly intelligent, committed and hard-working  though thats clearly not always so. I also agree that mockery is unlikely to help coax a person out of this kind of belief, though its legitimate, and I do think it can be useful in putting people off early on.I think that the reason that mockery is often ineffective is that it reinforces the conspiracists sense of exclusion, disempowerment and humiliation, particularly if that is then countered with warmth and affirmation from fellow believers.

I suspect its more effective to focus on the underlying structural logic of conspiracy theory, summarized by one of the leading experts on conspiracism, Michael Barkun, as everything is connected, nothing is accidental, and nothing is as it seems. Most people would accept that in their own lives, accidents and coincidences happen, and some things really are just as they seem. That strikes me as a more useful place to start, though I have never had to try to rescue someone from a rabbit hole.

Did you see the recent film The Order? Justin Kurzels film (which is based on Kevin Flynn and Gary Gerhardts 1989 book "The Silent Brotherhood") is critically important given where America is right now. The film did not do well commercially. In my opinion, it told too much uncomfortable truth in an era when most people are trying to avoid the horrible reality. Denial will not save them. The screening I went to was basically empty. I saw "The Order" three times, and only in one screening were there more than 10 people in it.

I went to see the film by myself during its opening week in London, on a freezing night between Christmas and New Year. The cinema I saw it in was almost empty too. I thought The Order was a solid piece of work, and I was glad that it didnt flinch from having the characters articulate their horrible racist ideology that drove them to kill. My main doubt was whether the film did enough to dramatize the broader sense of economic disempowerment that it implied was part of their motivation, because the more we understand what drives people toward the violent extremes of the right, the more likely we are to be able to divert them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Order is based on the murder in 1984 of the radio personality Alan Berg. Watching Kurzels film sent me back to Oliver Stones 1988 movie "Talk Radio," which was also inspired, in part, by that story. Much as Im critical of Stones later movie JFK, he deserves a lot of credit being so swift to tackle the story of Bergs murder and the vicious ideology that drove the killers. Stones "Talk Radio" was warning about The Turner Diaries seven years before it helped to inspire Timothy McVeigh to murder 168 people with his truck bomb in Oklahoma City.

Where do we go from here?

Towards the end of last year, I went to a presentation of the results of some polling conducted in the wake of the presidential election. It pointed to a troubling finding: when disaffected voters heard Democratic politicians ask for their votes to save democracy, what many of those voters heard was please vote for me to save my job, and the status quo. This chimed with my experience talking to people in the week before the election, which I spent travelling westward through Pennsylvania.

What I think this points to is conspiracy theories are one of the warning lights on the dashboard of democracy. They express how people feel about power. More people who care about democracy should have seen those lights flashing red and acted accordingly much earlier. But now here we are. The only way that I can see America recovering from this situation is for democratically elected politicians to show that they can and do make ordinary peoples lives better. The problem is that, meanwhile, conspiracy theories are a very useful way for other politicians to stoke distrust and division in pursuit of power.
The House and Senate reached a compromise Tuesday, May 6, 2025, on legislation that aims to drive down insurance premiums for restaurants and bars. (Stock photo by Kevin Trimmer/Getty Images)

Editors note: This article has been updated with Wednesday nights Senate vote.

COLUMBIA  Legislation that aims to drive down insurance premiums that have skyrocketed for businesses across South Carolina will soon be law.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A 41-1 vote Wednesday night in the Senate sent Gov. Henry McMaster a bill hes certain to sign. Earlier this year, he urged legislators to send him a solution to an unfair legal framework thats crippling businesses.

When the week started, it was unclear if the effort would again fizzle for the year. But a compromise emerged Tuesday, which the House passed on an unrecorded voice vote.

Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey urged his colleagues to give final approval.

This is the best we were going to get this year, he said, adding I dont think wed do any better next year.

The compromise gives bars and restaurants options, as well as requirements, for reducing their minimum insurance coverage for serving alcohol.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It also reforms state rules for personal injury lawsuits that allows businesses to be held 100% financially responsible in a lawsuit even if theyre barely at fault.

The agreement allows leaders in both chambers to check off a majority priority of the session.

However, it goes further than the House intended. In March, House GOP leaders insisted they wanted to focus this year on helping restaurant owners.

And its not as broad as the bill that passed the Senate, which dealt with a host of business insurance and litigation issues, including medical malpractice. That piece is gone, as is a proposal to double bare minimums in auto insurance coverage.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At the end of the day, this is about not holding our bars and restaurants hostage, House Judiciary Chairman Weston Newton told the chamber Tuesday in advocating for passage.

Massey believes more legislation will be required in a few years to further bring down rates.

Lowering the minimum

A 2017 state law has gotten a lot of the blame.

It requires bars and restaurants that serve alcohol after 5 p.m. to carry insurance policies covering at least $1 million in damages in case a customer is overserved and causes an accident  whats called liquor liability. That caused premiums to rise and insurers to leave the state. As the insurance options dwindled, the cost of policies kept rising.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Business owners have told legislators they struggle to stay open. Others said high insurance rates caused them not to expand or open at all.

The compromise would leave the $1 million minimum in state law but allow policies to be far lower.

For example, it would require all businesses that sell alcohol by the drink to have their servers complete alcohol training, which would lower the minimum policy by $100,000. For bars that stay open between midnight and 4 a.m., they must use scanners to verify that customers IDs are legit, which would shave another $100,000.

But closing before midnight, an option, would reduce coverage by $250,000.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Restaurants that make most of their money from food instead of alcohol could also get a break. If less than 40% of sales come from alcohol, policies can lower by $100,000.

By broadening the House bill to lawsuits, Newton said, the compromise addresses another reason for restaurants hike in premiums: rules known as joint and several liability. That refers to the possibility of businesses being required to pay the full amount of a court-ordered award even if theyre just 1% responsible for whatever happened.

Business owners said it forces them to pay  and perhaps puts them out of business  for things that arent their fault.

Personal injury lawyers, including those in the Legislature, have argued the law needs to ensure victims can be fully compensated for their loss following a tragedy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And theyve pointed to a 2005 law in calling additional changes to joint and several liability unnecessary. That 20-year-old law was touted as creating fairness in litigation by holding businesses fully responsible if theyre more than 50% at fault. If no single business or person meets that threshold, fault is divided proportionately between all those involved in the case.

But that law doesnt at all help bars and restaurants in lawsuits involving alcohol, which were specifically excluded from the proportional rules. It also doesnt help other businesses in practicality if plaintiffs only sue whoever or whatever can pay the biggest award, as often happens.

The compromise deletes the exclusion for alcohol and requires the verdict form given to a jury to include everyone at fault for determining their share of responsibility, including people and businesses that werent sued.

Thats a big win, said Massey, who led the fight in the Senate for a broader bill.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Under the agreement, if a business intentionally or recklessly causes harm, it can still be held fully responsible.

The president of the South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance praised the compromise as something we can not only be proud of, but something we know helps those who need it most.

Its stronger than current law, making the business landscape more predictable, fair and good for South Carolina families, businesses and consumers, said alliance president and CEO Sara Hazzard.

No guarantees

But some legislators said they remain concerned that theres no guarantee the agreement will lead to lower insurance rates.

Rep. Justin Bamberg noted that as South Carolina businesses struggle, insurance companies continue to thrive.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He reiterated a consistent complaint made in both chambers about a lack of testimony from the insurance industry.

You know who we didnt hear from? Anybody high up in the insurance industry, the Bamberg Democrat said.

Wouldnt show up, wouldnt talk to anybody, wouldnt give the secret sauce because its a trade secret about how they even label our state. How they label people at risk, how they determine premiums, he said.

Editors note: This article has been updated to clarify how the compromise changes existing law on personal injury awards.
A 35-11 vote in the Senate on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, sent a massive energy bill to the governor's desk. (File photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

COLUMBIA  A sweeping energy package billed as necessary to meeting South Carolinas power needs amid rapid industrial and population growth is headed to the governors desk.

The legislation faced more pushback in the Senate on Wednesday, a week after the House removed  with little discussion  measures meant to safeguard consumers and landowners. The bill ultimately passed, however, after senators spent roughly four hours venting their frustrations over the changes.

Senate President Thomas Alexander, left, and Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey, right, pictured in the Senate on May 6, 2025. (Photo by Jessica Holdman/SC Daily Gazette)

By a 35-11 vote, the Senate agreed to let the legislation go forward without provisions requiring energy-intensive data centers to cover their share of costs for new power plants built to power them or disclose how much water they plan to use.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The vote means data centers also will continue receiving sales tax credits for the computer equipment they purchase.

Utilities efficiency programs wont be held to a set standard in terms of energy savings.

And power companies wont be required to give landowners an earlier notice when construction of power plants, power lines, substations and pipelines impact their property.

The vote was not along party lines. The no votes came from three Democrats and eight Republicans.

I just want everybody to understand what the consequence is going to be of not having some of those things in there, said Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey, who authored the data center provisions in the version the Senate passed last month.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Your constituents are going to be paying more for energy. Theyre going to be paying more for energy because of the cost of generation, and that generation requirement is born largely because of data centers.

Im going to tell you this: Youre going to regret this, the Edgefield Republican added.

At the heart of the bill, sponsored by GOP House Speaker Murrell Smith of Sumter, is permission for Dominion Energy and state-owned utility Santee Cooper to partner on a possible 2,000-megawatt natural gas plant on the site of a former coal-fired power plant along the Edisto River in Colleton County.

Furthermore, utility executives told legislators they needed guarantees that state regulators would review power-related permits in a timely manner as they seek to make updates to the states power grid.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They asked for measures to prevent years-long delays of new pipelines and power plants in the court system. And they sought a section to make it easier to raise power bills on an annual basis, arguing smaller but more frequent increases would be easier for those on a fixed income to adjust to.

South Carolina is growing, and with that growth comes additional demand for accessible, affordable and reliable energy. We thank the General Assembly for recognizing this and passing critical energy reform legislation, the South Carolina Manufacturers Association wrote in support of the bill passed after two years of hearings and debate.

Dominion Energy, in a statement, also applauded passage of the bill it said would result in the ability to provide critically needed electricity and natural gas to power homes and businesses in the Palmetto State efficiently and cost effectively.

Massey said hes not opposed to a new natural gas plant-fired power plant.

Sen. Davis, R-Beaufort, speaks on the Senate floor on Wednesday, May 7, 2025 in favor of a sweeping energy bill aimed at meeting South Carolinas growing power needs. (Photo by Jessica Holdman/SC Daily Gazette)

What Im opposed to is making people pay for more than they should have to pay for, and were sanctioning it, he said. There is nothing in this bill that the utilities dont like. Theyre getting everything they want.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In its original form, the legislation saw significant pushback on its sweeping regulatory changes and rollback of consumer protections passed in the wake of South Carolinas failed nuclear expansion. The final legislation ultimately left those existing protections in place.

Sen. Tom Davis, the author of efforts to increase energy efficiency and reduce power use in the state, lamented the removal of the other Senate-added safeguards.

But what I have to weigh is taking what I think is a substantial step forward and accepting it or rejecting it, the Beaufort Republican said in explaining his yes vote. The bottom line for me is I dont want to take that risk.

Davis also reminded legislators that artificial intelligence, powered by data centers, is on track to impact all aspects of the global economy, from energy to health care.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thats the way industry is moving. The good jobs, the high paying jobs, the jobs we want in the future, are going to be added to those components, he said. It would be a very big mistake, in my opinion, to send a message that we dont want data centers.

On the other hand, Davis expressed confidence that data center developers and utility companies now understand their deals are going to be more heavily scrutinized.
St Peters Square on the eve of a papal conclave is so busy, I almost trod on a nun. The little grey mouse squealed and ran away. Thousands of Catholics are in town for the election of Franciss successor  willing, praying for the cardinals to make the correct choice. This includes a small group camped beneath the Egyptian Obelisk, led in a rosary by Eduardo Verastegui, a star of Mexican TV.

An associate of Donald Trump and rippling out of a lightly buttoned blue shirt, the 50-year-old Verastegui tried and failed to run for president of his home country because he didnt get the necessary signatures (another fixed election grumbles an admirer). Today, he is joined by over a million people on Facebook as he recites Ave Maria, gratia plena with telenovela passion.

Why is he here? To ask God to inspire the cardinals, to lead them to electing the pope that God wants... The most important thing is the salvation of souls, everything else is a distraction. The ideal character for this mission? A pope who is faithful to Christ, he says, clear in doctrine and has the ability and personality to bring all the Catholics together.

Cardinals gather for Holy Mass on the fifth day of the Novendiali in memory of the late Pope Francis in St Peters Basilica - Grzegorz Galazka/SIPA/Shutterstock

One might infer that Pope Francis didnt always tick those boxes, and its his legacy that is on the ballot paper. The choice, say the cardinals behind closed doors, is between clarity and charity: do we wish to emphasise saving souls or, as Francis did, filling bellies? Some here in Rome are desperate to stop a Francis II.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The deck appears stacked against them: 80 per cent of the 133 cardinals who will vote in the conclave were appointed by Francis, reflecting his desire for a younger, more global church. Dominated by Europeans in the past, this election entitles just 16 to vote from Italy, 17 from Africa and 18 from Asia, plus countries as far-flung as Haiti and Tonga. The youngest participant, Ukrainian Mykola Bychok, is only 45-years old.

Theyve been politicking in pizza houses or at meetings of the general congregation, presided over by the profoundly deaf Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, where theyve been bamboozled with grim news from the Vatican accounts. George Weigel, the American Catholic writer, always with an ear to the ground, tells me of real concentration this last week on the fact that this place is in deep, deep financial trouble, you know, annual budget deficits in the high eight figures, a huge unfunded pension liability, probably in the billions of euros. There has been broad agreement that the next guy really has to get to grips with this.

Cardinals have descended upon Rome for the conclave, which will begin on Wednesday - Mario Tama

No wonder some cardinals have run a mile. The New York Times reported at the weekend that a cardinal from Mali appeared once at the congregation, then disappeared; a colleague from Laos had never been seen at all. If the assumption was that appointing so many from the periphery, a favourite word of Francis, would result in a more doctrinally liberal church, the reality is proving more complex: Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu of the Congo has, in the past, opposed blessing gay couples  yet is in favour of a kinder touch on polygamy.

Conclave will begin with Mass then move straight to a vote in the intimidating surroundings of the Sistine Chapel. Austen Ivereigh, a biographer of the late Pope, describes the process to me as very solemn, conducted in such secrecy that the area has been swept for bugs and jamming equipment installed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Each man writes his choice down on a card, goes to the altar and, before casting the card in an urn, swears that they vote without self-interest. And they are doing this in front of The Last Judgement  painted by Michelangelo  right in front of the famous descent into Hell. Voting is prayerful but brutal, in silence (no formal debates), with canvassing taking place over the meals. One century, when voting dragged on over two years, the locals reduced rations to bread and water and removed the ceiling till it ended.

The bookies favourite is Pietro Parolin, number two in the Vatican as the current secretary of state, who is disliked by many conservatives because he helped orchestrate a concordat with communist China that threw dissident Chinese under the bus (one, Cardinal Joseph Zen, warned the general congregation against undermining essential elements of the Church founded by Jesus, an example of traditionalist rhetoric).

Older hands are said to be pushing for a swift result, within three days; newer cardinals prefer more time to think. The winner needs two-thirds.

In reality, no one knows who will triumph because the process is opaque and distorted by gossip (online conservative commentators fed a false rumour that Parolin, 70, is so feeble he fainted during a meeting). Who creates this list of runners and riders, asks Ivereigh? They dont, we do, meaning the media, and Parolin tops it largely because the cardinals coming to Rome, who dont really know each other very well, have at least heard of him  so thats the name theyve been handing out to hacks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But once they enter the conclave, frontrunners frequently get stuck  unable to break a certain number of votes, perhaps tarnished by too much media coverage. So we can expect them to graciously pull out and kingmakers step in, to gently advise others who to coalesce around instead.

Francis fans are said to lean towards the smiling Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines, although video of him singing John Lennons Imagine renders him unacceptable to some (imagine theres no heaven?! Theyd prefer not to try.) Pierbattista Pizzaballa is mentioned as a compromise, doubly attractive given that he serves as Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem at a time when Middle East politics is as relevant as the Cold War was to the great Pope John Paul II. Pizzaballa offered himself as a hostage in exchange for kidnapped Israeli children.

Alas, our own Vincent Nichols has ruled himself out. He describes himself as too old, not capable.

The epochal question these men must consider, says Weigel, is this: Do you lead the Catholic Church through the 21st century by having a clear doctrinal and moral teaching that challenge a lot of contemporary culture? Or do you acquiesce to that culture and effectively become a kind of religious NGO?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Conservative cardinals, such as Robert Sarah or Gerhard Ludwig Muller, fear that Francis put the Vatican in the direction of the latter, attempting to democratise the Church  so there are no authoritative teachers or teachings, to quote Weigel  and speaking off the cuff in a way that sowed confusion about ancient beliefs on, say, gay sex.

Paradoxically, he preached openness while governing as a Tartar; one source suggests to me a comparison with Trump. Both autocrats, he claims; zero respect for procedure, resistant to criticism. Its ironic that conservative Americans, who are thought to be trying to use their donor influence to shape the conclave, often accuse Francis of doing to the Vatican what their own president is doing to the US, trampling over its traditions and order with scant regard for what comes next.

Ivereigh would doubtless not recognise this description of his late friend. He sees the choice as between a church that leads by instruction, namely by defining doctrine and handing it down, versus one that advances through example, that is by members impressing their atheist neighbours through acts of kindness.

Rather than looking at secularisation and the loss of the Churchs prestige and power as a threat, as something that you need to try to reverse, Francis urged Catholics to embrace modernity as a gift, a chance to return to the spirit of the early Church  evangelising through good words, almost by contagion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The problem with this, reply conservatives, is that Francis appeared at times to discourage evangelisation, as if it were passe for Catholics to claim a monopoly on the truth. Im familiar with one Anglican cleric who, when he announced he wished to join the Church, was advised by Francis not to bother.

Unchanged teachings

Benjamin Harnwell, a very conservative Catholic who works in Italy as international editor for Steve Bannons WarRoom  thats the Bannon who served in the Trump administration  articulates a converts frustration with this attitude. Harnwell was attracted to a Church that seemed like a fortress, with unchanging teachings a concept that you join because of what you believe.

This, he argues, reflects English and American cultures, where we put an emphasis upon definition and reason. Francis had a Latin American way of thinking  a society where the Church is long established and in decline, where the goal is simply to keep the disillusioned from walking away. Latins prefer less to express concrete ideas than to communicate feelings, hence Franciss use of symbols  designed to imply that the Church isnt as reactionary as you imagined.

The legacy of this is on display in St Peters itself. The homeless were provided with showers and allowed to camp under the colonnades. Francis desired a church for the people, sometimes ostentatiously so.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To escape the electioneering, I paid a visit to his resting place. Based on media reports, obsessed with Franciss humility, I imagined hed been buried in a small chapel round the back of the train station. In fact, it couldnt be grander had he opted for the Taj Mahal: the Basilica of St Mary Major, decorated with frescoes and a gold ceiling, where pilgrims now file past the marble tomb, iPhone aloft, with all the reverence of the queue for Space Mountain. It feels like the epitome of Franciss pontificate: chaotic, noisy. Its fruits, laments Harnwell, are nothing less than a vocations crisis. Who would serve a Church that is so uncertain what its there for?

So, even if Franciss substantive approach towards the poor will remain, most at the conclave accept that the style of leadership simply has to change. They are measuring personalities, explains Weigel  someone who can balance the Vaticans books.

We can rule out a Right-wing African winner because Latin Americans are never going to vote for a black, African pope. Crunching the numbers, however, Weigel detects there are only 30 hardcore Francis followers, another 30 tilt that way but are not locked in, 44 electors or so who want to return to the path of John Paul II and Benedict XVI, and another, maybe 26 or so, who lean in that direction. So, at least theoretically. the majority is for more stability, more clarity, less idiosyncrasy, perhaps a little less public visibility.

Robert Sarah is one of the conservative African cardinals who opposed Pope Franciss attempt to democratise the Church - ALBERTO PIZZOLI

The old Vatican joke of thin pope followed by fat pope will thus not mean a cyclical swing from Left to Right but from wild pope to calm pope, the conclave likely picking a man who can decipher what Francis said and make the reforms he began work, such as fighting corruption or giving greater voice to women. This strengthens the case for Parolin, a capable bureaucrat, or, if his votes hit a ceiling, might see the conclave coalesce around Timothy Dolan of New York, or the affable Jean-Marc Aveline of Marseille.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its a vibe shift implicitly acknowledged by admirers of Francis  even if only because no one can precisely replicate his charisma.

James Martin, a Jesuit priest noted for his outreach to LGBT Catholics, tells me: You need three things in a pope. You need someone who is holy you need someone whos a good evangeliser, and you need someone whos a good manager. So those three things are hard enough to find in one person, right? When I ask if theres an additional tension to be resolved between charity and clarity, he replies firmly: Jesus didnt see one.

And on this, many conservatives would agree. Theyve been astonished in the last few weeks, not a little offended, to read that Francis was the first pope in history to care about the suffering  or that Rome was ever closed to sexual minorities and women.

Caring for all has been the Churchs mission for 2,000 years, even under the hardest-faced popes. Verastegui puts it lyrically: Were just broken instruments in the hands of God. Hes the only one who can create beautiful music with instruments out of tune.

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.
Board members say Mayor Brandon Johnsons handpicked school board president, Sean Harden, is leading an effort to vote down a resolution requiring the next interim leader of Chicago Public Schools to have a superintendent license, in order to install the mayors chief of staff, Cristina Pacione-Zayas, to serve in the temporary role.

If approved, the appointment would be a major shift in Johnsons administration and elicit strong reaction from critics of the mayor and his strongest ally, the Chicago Teachers Union.

The search for a new short-term superintendent to fill in for Pedro Martinez, the outgoing CPS chief executive officer, has been the topic of discussion at board meetings and in community forums for months since the CEO was fired without cause in late December amid extreme financial uncertainty. He will stay in his position until mid-June.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Although the board is technically in charge of hiring and firing the districts leader, Johnson appointed the majority of the board and the mayor traditionally influences who is placed in the high-profile role. Board members will likely vote to approve her appointment at Mays monthly board meeting.

But first, board members told the Tribune on Wednesday that Harden is trying to corral a majority vote of 11 members to undo a resolution that passed unanimously at a March board meeting, which requires that both the next CEO and the interim CEO must have a valid Illinois Professional Educator License, with a Superintendent endorsement. Pacione-Zayas does not have a superintendent license.

Theres almost no difference and no daylight between at  this point  Elon Musk as the CEO, Trump as the CEO and Mayor Johnson saying that we dont need criteria and qualifications, said Che Rhymefest Smith, a board member from the 10th District on the Far South Side who introduced the resolution. I feel like its an attack on the school board being an independent body. Its an attack on democracy.

The appointment of the interim officer will have large financial implications for the district, as that person will address a deficit of over $500 million in setting a budget for the following year and lay the groundwork for a permanent appointment later this fall. Martinez was fired in large part due to disagreement over the districts finances, after he refused to accept a borrowing plan pushed by Johnson to cover a $175 million pension payment for nonteaching CPS employees.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pacione-Zayas, a close member of the mayors cabinet, is likely to side more favorably with Johnson, a former teachers union organizer, when making the weighty financial decisions this summer.

The mayors office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

At an unrelated news conference Tuesday, Johnson deflected a question about why he isnt prioritizing superintendent licensure in the appointment of his chief of staff.

Someone who understands the direction of our school district is critical. That person has to have a clear sense of our financial challenges, he said. So someone who has a deep and profound perspective around  the needs of students, particularly (the) diverse needs of our students.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Johnson also defended Harden.

I actually think that theres something pretty special about our board president, which I think is a model for how our next interim could relate to the school board, someone who is a product of our public education system, he said.

And though the board is split between members who were elected and members appointed by the mayor, the appointment only needs a simple majority to pass at a board meeting. Over half of the board was elected by Johnson or endorsed by CTU in the most recent school board election.

Pacione-Zayas has a wide range of experiences in education and community engagement, from her previous work at Enlace Chicago and Latino Policy Forum. She led an initiative to provide stability at Roberto Clemente Community Academy in 2010 and was the associate vice president of policy for the Erikson Institute graduate school. She was an Illinois state senator before working her way into the mayors office and climbing to chief of staff.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

With the city, she was in charge of overseeing the rapidly unfolding migrant crisis, which proved to be a complex challenge as tens of thousands of people with high needs descended on Chicago, sent on buses by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott.

She received some criticism for that effort, particularly tied to the death of a 5-year-old in a warehouse turned migrant shelter on the Southwest Side in December 2023.

Pacione-Zayas was copied on an email obtained by the Tribune from Ald. Nicole Lee, 11th, in late October 2023 about complaints from migrants regarding alleged exposed pipes with raw sewage, a cockroach infestation, insufficient provision of meals and water and outbreaks of illness. Migrants said the death was caused in part by deplorable conditions in the warehouse in the coldest winter months that werent addressed.

She also received pushback for her handling of the firing of a top communications official for the mayor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After Ronnie Reese, the citys former communications director, was let go last year, the Tribune reported that he had been accused of sexual harassment, misogyny, racism and other abusive behavior. Records showed that Reese kept his job for months even after a city human resources investigator notified Pacione-Zayas of the formal complaints about Reeses alleged behavior.

In a meeting between members of Reeses team and Pacione-Zayas, the chief of staff repeatedly advocated for Reeses inclusion in meetings about this matter and referenced peace circles, but the team was unanimously against his inclusion due to the shared fear of retaliation, according to a written complaint received through a Freedom of Information Act request.

For the mayor to opt to move his administrations second in command will be a major shake-up that, while rumored for months, begs the question of who is left in his inner circle to serve as his next chief of staff.

In October, when asked by a WTTW reporter if she would consider the job as interim CEO, Pacione-Zayas said no.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Im the chief of staff to the mayor, she said. Im not going anywhere.

Pacione-Zayas said she was still the chief of staff when asked by a Tribune reporter in Springfield about the appointment earlier in the day.

That is what Im operating on right here, she said.

Chicago Tribune reporters Jake Sheridan and Jeremy Gorner contributed.
By Qabil Ashirov



On May 7, 2025, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov, embarked on an official visit to the Republic of Iraq.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the visit will include a meeting between Minister Bayramov and Iraqs Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Fuad Hussein. Several other high-level bilateral meetings are also scheduled to take place during the visit.
CAIRO, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty affirmed on Tuesday Egypt's support for Sudan in response to the recent targeting of civilian infrastructure and essential facilities in the country's Port Sudan city.

In a phone conversation with Sudanese Foreign Minister Omer Siddiq, Abdelatty emphasized the critical need for de-escalation to achieve a state of calm, ultimately leading to a much-needed ceasefire, according to a statement by the Egyptian Foreign Ministry.

This, he noted, would significantly contribute to improving the delivery of humanitarian assistance to the people of Sudan.

The Sudanese foreign minister, in turn, expressed his appreciation for Egypt's support and conveyed his hope for increased coordination and consultation with Egypt in the near future.

On Tuesday, drone attacks struck strategic sites in Port Sudan, a port city on the Red Sea in eastern Sudan, including an international airport, a hotel near the temporary presidential palace, and an oil export port.

Although no group has officially claimed responsibility, the military has blamed the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for the drone attacks, which started on Sunday.

Sudan has been embroiled in a devastating conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF since mid-April 2023, which has claimed tens of thousands of lives, with the exact toll unknown. The International Organization for Migration estimates that over 15 million people have been displaced in the conflict, both within Sudan and abroad. 
BENNETTSVILLE, SC (WBTW)  A school bus driver had to be airlifted to a hospital after a crash involving an 18-wheeler Thursday in Marlboro County, South Carolina.

Marlboro County School District Superintendent Dr. Gregory McCord said the crash happened on Beauty Spot Road in Bennettsville.

Man, dog found dead after bear encounter in Florida, deputies say

The female school bus driver had to be cut out of the bus by EMT and was then airlifted to a Florence hospital, according to McCord.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A bus aide was also on board at the time. That person is expected to be okay, according to McCord. The driver of the 18-wheeler is also okay, according to McCord.

Corporal Sonny Collins with South Carolina Highway Patrol said, the driver of the 18-wheeler cut in front of the bus, causing the bus to strike the rear of the truck. The driver of the 18-wheeler was charged with failure to yield the right of way.

No students were on the bus at the time of 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 SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.
LIMESTONE COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT)  A deadline for school choice applications in Limestone County has been set for May 29.

The Limestone County Board of Education begun accepting District and School Choice applications for the 2025-2026 school year on May 5.

Students living in the Limestone County School District who are wanting to attend a school outside of where they are zoned should apply.

Students who live outside of the Limestone County School District and want to attend a school in Limestone County should apply as well.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The following schools are exempt from the school choice application:

Cedar Hill Elementary School

Creekside Primary School

Creekside Elementary School

East Limestone High School

Application forms can be found by clicking Enroll on the District website here, or at the Central Office located at 300 South Jefferson Street in Athens.

The deadline for submission is Thursday, May 29 at 4:30 p.m. No late applications will be accepted except in some cases of extreme hardship.

Parents and guardians will be notified of the acceptance or rejection of your application by U.S. Mail no later than June 12.

According to officials, a tuition fee must be paid for students to participate in District Choice. This fee must be paid to Limestone County Schools by money order, cashiers check, or cash upon notification of acceptance into the Limestone County School system.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
The school choice movement is at a crossroads, celebrating perhaps its latest victory in a red state but looking at a much more difficult path forward in its quest to make alternatives to public schools easily accessible across the country.

The near universal school choice bill signed over the weekend by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) signified the last major Republican-led state to create education savings accounts (ESAs), the North Star for the movement, which has seen a string of wins in legislatures across the country since the pandemic.

But the movements success in Texas is unlikely to be repeated in deep blue territory, meaning advocates are eyeing action on the federal level while pressing ahead in individual states.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its clear that were going to have to continue this march state by state to educate people, to get them involved and to really focus on that, on a strategy that understands how to work school choice into a blue state, said Robert Enlow, president and CEO of EdChoice.

I think the federal tax credit program that needs to be in the reconciliation bill right now will go a long way to making that a reality, he added, referring to GOP budget plans to advance much of President Trumps agenda.

Abbott on Saturday signed the largest Day 1 school choice program in the country, costing $1 billion in just its first year. Rural lawmakers in Texas had for years dug in against school choice, saying it would not help children in districts where the alternative education options are few and far between.

ESA programs have popped up around the country, with states giving a certain amount of money to families that choose to send their students outside of the public school system.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In Texas, families that choose to send their kids to private schools will get 85 percent of the average local and state dollars that students who go to public schools receive.

School choice is now the law in the great state of Texas, Abbott said. Gone are the days that families are limited to only the school assigned by government. The day has arrived that empowers parents to choose the school thats best for their child.

The school choice movement gained major momentum during the pandemic, with more than 15 states adopting ESAs since schools temporarily closed in 2020 due to COVID-19.

Each states ESA program looks different, with varying eligibility and amount of money given to families depending on the state. Advocates are hoping to make some of the programs more expansive to include more children.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

With so many states now adopting a form of school choice, some are hoping it will put pressure on others.

If this proves to be effective and popular, then at some point I assume the pressure on lawmakers in, if not blue states then purple states  will become overwhelming. This is well on its way to becoming normal or normalized, said Robert Pondiscio, senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute.

The easiest next course of action for the movement would be focusing on a federal bill while Republicans control the House, Senate and White House.

The Educational Choice for Children Act has gained traction in Congress and among advocates. It would create a federal tax credit for individuals who donate to groups that provide school choice scholarships to students. The scholarships would be available for students from families with incomes up to 300 percent of their areas median gross income.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The scholarships can be used for books, tuition, school supplies and even for homeschool-related costs.

Texas was really the last big state to fall, from my perspective, This is why theres so much effort ramping up among [former Education Secretary] Betsy DeVos and other sort of the big voucher groups to get the federal tax credit scheme passed as part of the reconciliation process, said Joshua Cowen, senior fellow at the Education Law Center. With the legislation, they go around any state prohibitions against vouchers. So, this would immediately ram vouchers into blue states.

This bill also gets around the concerns of the school choice movement that bringing in the federal government could come with strings attached for private schools and homeschoolers.

In fact, the legislation thats been introduced emphatically makes clear that private schools taking any of the payments from these families are under no obligation to change any of their admissions policies or practices or anything like that. So, it really builds the private school rights into the bill, rather than parents rights, Cowen said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bill would not only help break school choice into blue states but would expand the movement in red ones that have more restrictive programs.

As with the Civil Rights Act of two generations ago, Congress needs to step in and bypass that opposition to education freedom where it exists in states, said Peter Murphy, senior advisor of Invest in Education coalition.

But while ramping up a federal focus, school choice advocates are not going to give up on their state-by-state approach.

One goal of the movement is to have universal ESAs in all states. Some states only allow certain students to apply for the programs, and voters in other states have shown resistance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kentucky, Nebraska and Colorado all rejected ballot measures in November that would have advanced school choice in their states.

My No. 1 hope is, what you will see is a growing, thriving new sector of educational delivery, models that serve parents where they are  whether its brick-and-mortar or at home or hybrid or a mix of all of it. Its my hope that well begin to see an education system that looks a lot more like the 22nd century rather than the 18th century, Enlow said.

My fear is that we will start to regulate, and we will start to control and we will start to limit the number of choices to say only these people can get in, because were so afraid of letting parents make true choices, he added.

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.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed a $1 billion school voucher bill into law on Saturday, cementing a win for the school choice movement in the Lone Star State that was decades in the making.

Gone are the days that families are limited to only the school assigned by government, he said at a public signing ceremony. The day has arrived that empowers parents to choose the school thats best for their child.

Under the new program, families in Texas will be eligible to receive more than $10,000 per year for each child to help cover the cost of private school tuition beginning next school year. Children with disabilities may be able to get an additional $30,000. Homeschoolers will also qualify for around $2,000 per year to cover education-related expenses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Programs that offer alternatives to traditional public school  broadly referred to as school choice  are nothing new, but they have gained considerable steam in the years following the COVID-19 pandemic. No policy has had more legislative success than school vouchers. Texas joins more than a dozen states that have installed voucher systems that are open to all students in the past three years.

While education options like charter schools have enjoyed broad bipartisan support, the spread of vouchers is driven almost entirely by Republicans. The GOP controls the legislature, governorship or both in every state that has passed a new school voucher bill recently. There is also an ongoing effort to create a national voucher program by Republicans in Congress, with President Trumps backing.

The growth of vouchers in states has been met with significant pushback, particularly from teachers' unions and other public school advocates. A judge in Utah recently ruled that the states voucher system is unconstitutional, though the program will continue to run while the decision is appealed. A similar lawsuit is in motion in Ohio. Measures that would have established or expanded vouchers were on the ballot in Colorado, Nebraska and Kentucky this past November. All three were rejected by voters.

Despite these setbacks, school vouchers are becoming increasingly common. As of last summer, more than 1 million students across the country were utilizing some form of voucher, according to the school choice advocacy group EdChoice. Those numbers are certain to grow.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The conversation around vouchers  and school choice more generally  can get confusing fast. Its full of buzzwords and complex details about program structures, eligibility and implementation. In hopes of helping provide some clarity on an increasingly important debate, Yahoo News is here to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about school vouchers.

What are vouchers?

Vouchers are a way that public funds are used to pay for schooling outside of the public school system. The details get complicated, but the basic premise is that vouchers allow state governments to take money that would normally go toward educating a child in a public school and instead direct it somewhere else. Usually thats a private school, but some voucher programs allow funds to be used on homeschooling expenses, textbooks, transportation or even therapy.

How does the money get to parents?

In a variety of ways. In whats often called a traditional voucher system, states send money directly to private schools to cover some or all of a childs tuition. An increasingly popular alternative is Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) in which state funds are put into a bank account that parents can use to pay for education-related expenses. Some states also offer tax credits to families rather than distributing money directly.

These are all technically different systems, but over time voucher has become something of a blanket term to describe any program that uses public money to pay for non-public education.

I keep hearing the term 'school choice' when people talk about vouchers. What does that mean?

School choice is a very broad term that describes any policies that allow kids to be educated somewhere other than their local public school. Vouchers are just one form of school choice. So are charter schools, magnet schools, programs that support homeschooling and rules that let students go to public schools outside of their assigned school zone.

How have vouchers changed over the past few years?

Voucher programs in some form have been around for decades, but they have historically been very limited in scope  often only offering funds to low-income families or students with disabilities. Three years ago, Arizona became the first state to offer universal vouchers that are available to all students in the state, regardless of their circumstances. Since then, more than a dozen states have followed Arizonas lead.

Where are vouchers available?

More than 30 states and Washington, D.C., have some form of voucher program, though the details and eligibility vary significantly from state to state. Currently, there are 16 states that are slated to have universal voucher programs in effect at the start of the next school year. That number could change, though, depending on the outcome of ongoing litigation challenging the legality of universal vouchers in Utah and Ohio.

Sources: Education Week, Ballotpedia (Graphic created with Datawrapper)

Whats the argument in favor of vouchers?

Advocates for school choice in general say families deserve to have more opportunities to decide what kind of education would best serve their children, rather than limiting them to a single public school thats been assigned to them. Within the school choice movement, vouchers are seen as the most effective way to help kids get a top-quality private school education that their families otherwise wouldnt be able to afford. The ZIP Code-based public education system has kept low-income kids out of quality schools, the school choice advocacy group EdChoice writes on its website. They also make the case that having to face more competition for students forces public schools to improve.

Whats the case against vouchers?

Critics argue that vouchers strip crucial funding from already cash-strapped public schools while only serving to make inequality in education worse. Recent analyses of universal voucher programs show that most voucher recipients were already enrolled in private schools and a significant share of the money went to wealthy families. There are also concerns that students with disabilities, religious minorities and LGBTQ children will be left behind because private schools are not bound by the same laws that require public schools to accommodate all students. There have also been cases where voucher programs have proven to be far more costly than initially anticipated, which has created big problems for state budgets.

Do vouchers help students?

The simple answer is that we dont know. Universal voucher programs are very new, so there hasnt been enough time for researchers to examine their true impact on grades, test scores and student achievement. Studies of older, more limited voucher programs can offer some clues, but the results of those are far from definitive. Some studies have shown modest improvement among low-income students in voucher programs, while others have actually found that voucher participants fared substantially worse than their public school peers.

Do vouchers hurt public schools?

Again, the recency of universal voucher programs makes it hard to give a concrete answer. There are some older studies that suggest increased competition from vouchers does result in higher-performing public schools, though there isnt a clear understanding as to why. Its also unclear just how much state spending on universal voucher programs will impact public schools bottom lines. In general, states are not pulling money directly out of public school funds to pay for vouchers, but cost overruns to those programs have put pressure on state budgets that could lead public school funding to be cut. There have also been cases where states cut certain public school programs at the same time as they increased funding for vouchers.

How does homeschooling play into this?

The relationship between homeschooling and vouchers is complicated. State funds that go into ESAs typically can be used to cover homeschooling expenses. While that may be enticing for some families, many homeschoolers  particularly religious conservatives  fear that they would have to give up some of their autonomy over how they educate their kids in order to receive state funding. Government money comes with government control, one member of a Christian homeschooling group told the nonprofit news organization The 74.
A photo of Keeny Hall at Louisiana Tech University from September 2016. Sterlingrb and UpAhead Design, via Wikimedia Commons

Louisiana would be among the states hardest hit by the indefinite pause of funding from the National Science Foundation, with higher education leaders warning of catastrophic impacts to students and the economy.

According to an internal memo exclusively reported by Nature, the National Science Foundation, one of the top federal funders of scientific research at Louisiana universities, is pausing funding of all existing grants and will stop awarding new grants. The agency announced it will also slash its indirect cost rate to 15%, joining the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Energy in doing so. Those cuts will result in tens of millions of dollars in loss for Louisiana universities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last year, LSU was awarded the largest-ever grant in NSF history. The 10-year nearly $160 million grant is funding the Future Use of Energy in Louisiana partnership, which brings together multiple universities and private industry partners and provides workforce development grants for the energy industry.

In the 2023 fiscal year, the most recent year that data is available, the National Science Foundation awarded over $54 million in grants to Louisiana universities. Each dollar spent on research is estimated to have triple the fiscal impact, according to numerous economic impact studies published by universities.

We believe it will have a significant impact on our innovation, our workforce development and our economic development, Ramesh Kolluru, vice president of research, innovation and economic development at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, said in an interview with the Illuminator.

Jim Henderson, president of Louisiana Tech University, said NSF funds research with direct economic impact for Louisiana, such as solutions to problems that affect forestry  the leading agricultural sector in Louisiana. Losing that money would leave a hole that might be hard to fill, Henderson said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Louisianans [would be] looking for ways to replace that intellectual capital that makes our state livable, Henderson said.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

Leaves and insects arent woke

Among the nearly 1,500 grants the National Science Foundation has cancelled in the past two weeks was a nearly $200,000 grant awarded to Julia Earl, a Louisiana Tech biology professor. The agency gave no reason for cancelling its contract other than a change in its priorities, she said.

Henderson said he believed the grant was targeted as part of the Trump administrations efforts to defund diversity, equity and inclusion. Though the project was not DEI-related, it has the word diversity twice in its title: Effects of Leaf Diversity on Aquatic Insect Colonizer Diversity.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I dare say that leaves and insects arent woke by any stretch of the imagination, Henderson said. What it is is a study on the habitats, the aquatic biospheres, that are so vitally important to Louisiana.

Earl said she was forced to fire two undergraduate students she had hired to work on the project because she lost the NSF funding.

Losing such grants reduces our ability to train the workforce, Earl said. Theyre learning valuable skills that they could use in jobs, and so most of our students at Louisiana Tech are from Louisiana, so students in our state are not getting that training without these grants.

Students among hardest hit

In addition to undergraduate students, research grants pay for tuition and stipends for graduate and doctorate students who work on the projects. While some universities are looking into stopgap measures to pay students currently enrolled, the loss of funding is likely to block the pipeline of students being educated at Louisiana universities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Graduate students are the bread and butter of our research programs, Kolluru said.

Parampreet Singh, an LSU physics professor funded by the National Science Foundation, said he is unsure how he will support his graduate research students moving forward. Even if universities can provide short-term funding in the form of teaching assistantships, it may not be enough for students early in their five- or six-year Ph.D. programs if the loss of NSF funding is a long-term problem.

If the labs shut down because of NSF funding restrictions, were not going to complete their research, Singh said. Their careers are just getting destroyed in the process.

LSU President William Tate told The Advocate that all admissions offers the university now makes to prospective graduate students are conditional on funding.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thats a very precarious situation because youre talking about the most talented students in the country, Tate said. Youre basically telling them they have a conditional opportunity to go to our school as opposed to saying youre definitively coming and were going to help you get a Ph.D. in physics or astronomy or microbiology or agriculture.

The National Science Foundation also funds the Louis Stokes Louisiana Alliance for Minority Participation, a statewide program aimed at increasing the number and quality of minority students enrolling in and completing undergraduate degrees in the science, technology, engineering and math fields.

The foundation had already asked the state to stop work on this program, though the Board of Regents, which administers the funding, advised participating schools they are allowed to continue their work, though they do so at the risk of not being reimbursed if the NSF terminates its awards retroactively.

We had a contract with the government. They didnt honor it.

Changes in federal research funding that have unfolded since President Donald Trump took office in January are a major reversal of nearly a century of higher education norms. The sudden rescission of contracts leaves universities, especially those already in a precarious financial position, in the lurch. And it strikes some as counter to Trumps assertions he wants to run the federal government like a business.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We had a contract with the government, basically, and they didnt honor it, Earl said about the end of her NSF grant.

Tate echoed that same thought at an LSU Board of Supervisors meeting earlier this year.

We put up, if you will, a loan. We loan [the federal government] our facilities, and today we find ourselves in a situation where those facilities that are on loan, the reimbursement has changed in real time while were in a contract, Tate said.

While critics have argued federal funding should not go to scientific research without direct applications, most scientists agree there is no applied research without basic science.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investing in research now is necessary for the applied science of the future, Jonathan Snow, an LSU geology professor, said in an interview earlier this year. While the value of basic scientific research might not be readily apparent to the public, scientists are in agreement that the work is necessary for life-saving discoveries and other scientific breakthroughs.

Basic science basically won World War II, Snow said. Basic science drove innovation in all kinds of war-making technologies, from radar to the atomic bomb.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
A quiet yet powerful rescue mission is underway in the cold waters off the Pacific coast.

The nonprofit Sunflower Star Laboratory is leading the charge to revive the critically endangered sunflower sea star  a predator essential to the survival of underwater kelp forests.

The mission? To travel to an aquarium in Alaska and inject the facility's sunflower sea stars with a hormone to induce spawning. The team of researchers planned to return to the Monterey Bay area with some frozen male sperm, along with 10 live adult starfish and larvae.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, they were excited to discover that some of the starfish began the spawning process three days before their group was set to arrive. "We can hit the ground running," Ashley Kidd, conservation project manager at the Sunflower Star Laboratory, told the Los Angeles Times.

Sunflower sea stars once thrived along the Pacific Coast between Baja California and Alaska. Then, in 2013, a mysterious disease killed an estimated 5.75 billion of them, approximately 94% of the global population. A marine heatwave weakened the species, allowing infections to spread more quickly and resulting in deadlier consequences.

Sea stars eat sea urchins and ward them off with chemical cues, keeping them in check. But with their predator gone, nothing was left to stop purple sea urchins from devouring vital kelp forests, as they can consume as much as 30 feet per month in herds. This ecological imbalance revealed just how fragile our ecosystems truly are.

It wasn't until the sunflower sea stars had nearly vanished  and kelp forests began to collapse  that scientists realized how crucial they were, prompting a multi-institutional effort to bring them back.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Restoring healthy kelp forests has wide-reaching benefits. They provide shelter and food for marine life, including sea lions, sea otters, seals, and fish, while absorbing substantial amounts of carbon dioxide from the water. They also support fisheries that coastal communities rely on and absorb a significant amount of carbon dioxide.

Therefore, rebuilding the sunflower sea star population is vital to reviving underwater ecosystems and protecting the biodiversity they support.

The Sunflower Star Lab is raising healthy sunflower sea stars in captivity with the goal of eventually releasing them into the wild  a massive milestone for a species feared lost.

Once environmental conditions are stable enough, they plan to coordinate a large-scale reintroduction along the California Coast. Over time, these sea stars would help control urchin populations naturally, allowing kelp forests to recover without ongoing human intervention.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"It's kind of like the  'you don't know what you have until it's gone' adage," Norah Eddy, associate director of the Nature Conservancy's Oceans Program in California, said. Yet, if the sunflower sea star population makes a comeback, it could "turn the tide."

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.
Astronomers have made an intriguing discovery that could upend everything we know about the structure of the universe and its expansion.

Scientists recently found that dark energy, the mysterious form driving the accelerating expansion of the universe, could be weakening over time.

The findings could undermine the existing standard cosmological model of the universe called the lambda-cold dark matter (LCDM) model, which takes dark energy, ordinary matter, and cold dark matter  a hypothetical form of dark matter that moves slowly compared to the speed of light  into consideration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The symbol lambda in the model refers to Albert Einstein's cosmological constant, which assumes that the universe is accelerating at a fixed rate.

Yet, last year, scientists concluded that dark energy isn't a constant after all, analyzing observations by the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) in Arizona, as New Scientist reports. They found that the mysterious force could be evolving and weakening over time.

In March, scientists released a follow-up, strengthening the unusual findings.

"This is exciting  it might actually be putting the standard model of cosmology in danger," Autonomous University of Madrid assistant research professor Yashar Akrami told New Scientist.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Instead of making changes to the LCDM itself, Akrami and his colleagues suggested redefining dark energy as a "quintessence field," which has been used to explain observations of an accelerating rate of expansion of the universe.

That could allow scientists to harmonize more advanced string theory with the standard cosmological model.

"If you prove that quintessence is dark energy, its very good for [string theorists]," Akrami told New Scientist. "Thats why the string theory community is really excited now."

An altered take on the quintessence model of dark energy suggests the mysterious force could be interacting with gravity itself.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Weve always grown up thinking about the universe as having the gravitational force, and gravity fuels everything," University of Oxford astrophysicist Pedro Ferreira told the publication. "But now theres going to be an additional fifth force, which is due to the dark energy, which also fuels everything."

But before we can add this fifth force, we'd have to reconcile the fact that we simply haven't seen any evidence for it, at least not when we're making precise measurements of our neighborhood of the universe.

"Physics ends up being even more complicated than we thought it could have been, and that kind of makes you wonder, why do you want to go down that route?" Ferreira added.

The researcher believes it's most likely that scientists will debate different models of dark energy and "never resolve it."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Yet, there's still a chance researchers could observe gravity being influenced by dark energy in upcoming observations by the European Space Agency's Euclid satellite and DESI.

More on dark energy: Scientists Say They've Built a "Black Hole Bomb"
Laura Owens, the woman a judge said falsely accused former "The Bachelor" contestant Clayton Echard of impregnating her, has been indicted on fraud charges, according to the Maricopa County Attorney's Office.

Owens, of Scottsdale, filed a petition for a court order of paternity seeking child support from Echard in Maricopa County Superior Court in August 2023.

Owens initially claimed that she became pregnant with twins after having sex with Echard.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Echard claimed Owens' paternity lawsuit was filed as a form of harassment and denied paternity. In court filings, he said they had oral sex, but "that was all."

Echard accused Owens of lying and fabricating medical documents. His attorneys also submitted examples of Owens threatening to take the story to the press.

In a scathing ruling issued in June 2024, a judge sided with Echard, finding Owens had altered documents, changed the results of a pregnancy test, given false testimony and potentially perjured herself in what the judge said appeared to be "a case of serial fabrications."

Judge Julie Mata wrote that Owens had acted unreasonably, saying she had initiated litigation "without basis or merit."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Without an authentic ultrasound, sonogram, physical examination, and in conjunction with a belief she passed tissue in July 2023, the Court finds the underlying Petition premature at best," Mata wrote. "At worst, however, fraudulent and made to incite communication, a relationship, or both, with (Echard)."

In her decision to award attorneys' fees to Echard, Mata said Owens' petition was not filed in good faith nor was it grounded in fact or based on law.

Mata found Owens provided false testimony about her pregnancies in three cases and presented false claims.

Clayton Echard posted an Instagram story on May 6, 2025, expressing his relief with the charging decision.

In addition, Mata referred Owens for felony prosecution for violating Arizona's laws regarding perjury and evidence tampering.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

An Arizona appeals court upheld the trial court ruling in April.

A spokesperson for the County Attorney's Office on May 6 said the office had been investigating Owens after the referral from Mata.

"MCAO investigators found that between May 2023 and June 2024, Owens altered an ultrasound image, fabricated a pregnancy video, and lied multiple times under oath," the spokesperson said in a news release.

Court documents showed a grand jury indicted Owens on seven felony counts:

One count of fraudulent schemes and artifices, a Class 2 felony.

One count of forgery, a Class 4 felony.

Four counts of perjury, a Class 4 felony.

One count of tampering with physical evidence, a Class 6 felony.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Owens did not immediately respond to attempts to reach her for comment on May 6.

Echard posted a story on Instagram following the decision thanking God and linking back to the County Attorney's Office news release.

Upheld: Former 'Bachelor' star Clayton Echard wins again in Arizona paternity case

Have a news tip? Reach the reporter at jjenkins@arizonarepublic.com or 812-243-5582. Follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter, @JimmyJenkins.

(This story has been updated to add more information and a photo.)

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Officials: 'Bachelor' accuser faked pregnancy video, lied under oath
Sean Penn fears Americans havent seen the worst of President Donald Trumps second term just yet.

Appearing on former CNN journalist Jim Acostas Substack podcast last week, Penn said U.S. citizens should consider worst case scenarios with regard to the president, who last month was hit with a number of damning polls showing his popularity plummeting with voters.

I do think its a reasonable theory that Donald Trump is not unlike the spouse of someone who leaves him, perhaps for another, who then murders their former partner because if they cant have her, nobody can, Penn said. I think Donald Trump and his solipsism may have that relationship with the world and that this destruction is, in part, a power play, and also a literal intention of his final out.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Asked whether he believes Trump will pursue a third term as the president himself has alluded to, the Mystic River actor noted: I think he might try to destroy the world before he ages out of life. ... I think its him stubbing his toe to declare martial law and postpone elections.

A two-time Oscar winner, Penn has been an outspoken critic of Trump and other GOP lawmakers for years.

"I think he might try to destroy the world before he ages out of life," actor Sean Penn, right, said of President Donald Trump. Getty Images

In December, he called out the film industry for its somewhat muted response to The Apprentice, in which actor Sebastian Stan portrayed Trump during his years as a real estate magnate in 1970s and 80s New York.

They, too, can be as afraid as a piddly little Republican congressman, he said at the time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Penn served as an executive producer on Words of War, starring Jason Isaacs and Maxine Peake. The film, which opened in theaters last week, is based on the life of Anna Politkovskaya (played by Peake), a Russian investigative journalist and human rights activist who was murdered in 2006.

One of the things about Anna Politkovskaya as a journalist is that she was incredibly brave but the reason its magnified is because she was one of so few who were willing to take those chances, Penn told Forbes of the film. What we are seeing in this country is incredible cowardice in so much of the media, and therefore, those who are brave stand alone; those who are brave in the face of fascism are at great risk. Thats what this story is all about.

Watch Sean Penns appearance on The Jim Acosta Show here. His comments on Trump possibly seeking a third term begin around the 46:42 mark.

Related...
ISLAMABAD, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has shot down three Indian fighter jets in response to overnight airstrikes carried out by India at five locations in Pakistan, the state broadcaster PTV News reported in the wee hours of Wednesday, citing security sources.

"Pakistani forces are giving a befitting reply to Indian aggression," a military statement said, adding that all PAF aircraft involved in the operation had returned safely.

Eyewitnesses in Rawalpindi, a major city in Pakistan's eastern Punjab province, reported seeing a missile in the air, believed to have been launched from within Pakistani territory.

The statement added that Pakistan had also destroyed an Indian brigade headquarters in the retaliatory strike. It did not specify the location of the strike.

The retaliation came after Indian missiles targeted five locations in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur and Sheikhupura districts of the country's eastern Punjab province and Muzaffarabad, Bagh, and Kotli districts of the Pakistan-controlled Kashmir.

Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistan Army, told media that at least eight people were killed and 35 others injured in India's "cowardly" missile strikes.

The strikes came as tensions have escalated between the two countries following a deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam in the Indian-controlled Kashmir on April 22. 
Consumers across the U.S., including in Wisconsin, are boycotting Amazon for the second time in less than two months for rolling back DEI policies.

In recent months, major corporations, including retailers like Walmart and Target, have reversed such policies. Some began the cuts prior to President Donald Trump returning to office and taking action to eliminate federal DEI programs.

Like previous actions, this boycott was organized by The People's Union USA. The advocacy group has future spending freezes planned through July 4. Organizer John Schwarz has said longer-term boycotts against specific companies will be announced, USA TODAY reported.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The boycott against billionaire Jeff Bezos' online retail giant, which began on May 6, is the latest in a series of consumer boycotts from the group, including a 24-hour economic blackout on Feb. 28 and three-day boycott over Easter weekend.

Schwarz said in a recent Instagram video the boycotts are not meant to "tank the economy or the stock market," but rather to "hold corrupt corporations accountable," according to USA TODAY.

Here's what to know:

When is the Amazon boycott?

The Amazon boycott began on May 6 and runs through May 12.

More: Did the Amazon boycott work? When is next Amazon boycott? See traffic data, survey results

What is included in the boycott?

A range of Amazon products and services are included in the week-long boycott. Here's a list, according to an Instagram post from Schwarz:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Amazon.com

Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Fresh

Amazon Music

Amazon Basics

Whole Foods Market

Audible

Twitch

Ring

Zappos

Goodreads

IMDB

Kindle

What is the upcoming DEI boycott schedule?

The People's Union USA has more consumer boycotts planned through July. Here's the schedule:

Walmart : May 20-26

Target : June 3-9

McDonald's : June 24-30

Independence Day boycott: July 4

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Amazon DEI boycott: What to know about spending freeze in Wisconsin
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A second lawsuit has been filed in the wake of a deadly gas explosion that killed a 5-year-old boy in Lexington, Missouri.

The boys father, Jacob Cunningham, and 10-year-old sister, Camille Lamb, were severely injured in the April 9 explosion. Cunningham was the first person to file a lawsuit after the deadly explosion that killed his son.

NTSB releases preliminary report of deadly gas explosion in Lexington

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Several neighboring homes were also damaged in the explosion  including Shane Billings and Alicia Billings home, which was less than 50 feet away from the house that exploded.

They are suing the following companies:

The Empire District Gas Company, also known as Liberty Utilities or Liberty, LLC

United Fiber

Sellenriek Construction

Alfra Comunication

The lawsuit says the companies negligence and failures directly caused or contributed to the gas leak and explosion.

The Billings are demanding a jury trial to determine the amount of damages they are owed.

Liberty told Billings and neighbors that evacuation was unnecessary, lawsuit says

The lawsuit claims that Liberty Utilities had more than three hours to order an evacuation of the neighborhood but chose not to.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite knowledge of the leaking gas line, defendants failed to evacuate the area for a period of at least three-and-a-half hours, the lawsuit says.

This was also highlighted in the National Transportation Safety Boards (NTSB) preliminary report.

The lawsuit claims that Liberty Utilities told the Billings and other neighbors that an evacuation was not warranted  and even made assurances that it was safe to remain in their homes.

In fact, the amount of gas flowing out of the damaged pipe was so large that it posed an imminent risk of explosion and fire in the homes and buildings adjacent to the leak, the lawsuit says.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the lawsuit, Liberty Utilities created an uncontainable risk to public safety yet failed to issue sufficient public warnings or evacuate the area.

Liberty Utilities routed gas pipelines through residential neighborhoods populated by homes, schools, and businesses, the lawsuit says. Liberty Utilities was aware that any breach, especially by third-party excavation, posed an immediate and substantial threat to life and property.

Liberty didnt even try to cut off gas to homes and businesses, lawsuit claims

State gas safety regulations required Liberty to stop the flow of leaking gas using rupture mitigation valves within thirty (30) minutes after the leak was identified but failed to stop the flow of gas for at least three hours, the lawsuit says.

According to the NTSBs preliminary report, Liberty didnt stop the flow of gas until 8:10 p.m.  nearly 30 minutes after the explosion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lawsuit also claims that Liberty Utilities made no attempt to cut off the gas to homes and businesses in the area during the hours leading up to the explosion.

See the latest headlines in Kansas City and across Kansas, Missouri

Cutting off the gas to homes and businesses would have preventing more gas from escaping and could have reduced the risk of an explosion.

The lawsuit says Liberty Utilities failed to:

Minimize potential sources of ignition by promptly shutting off the gas supply and the electrical power to homes and businesses in the area near the leaking gas

Timely check for the presence of gas in the nearby homes and businesses

Evacuate those homes and businesses in a timely fashion.

Liberty failed to mark gas line that caused deadly explosion, lawsuit says

The lawsuit accuses Liberty Utilities of negligence not only for failing to evacuate the areabut also for failing to mark the gas line that caused the deadly explosion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The NTSBs preliminary report also supports this claim.

Five days before the incident, on April 4, the NTSBs report says Alfra Construction called Missouri 811 to have any buried utilities in the area marked. Liberty Utilities sent a locator to mark them and reported that this work was finished on April 7, the report says.

The gas main that was struck before the explosion was not identified or marked during this process, the preliminary report says.

United Fiber, Sellenriek Construction and Alfra Comunication also accused of negligence

The lawsuit also accuses United Fiber and its contractors  Sellenriek Construction and Alfra Comunication  of negligence.

According to the lawsuit, they breached their duty by:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Failing to confirm the location of the Liberty Utilities gas main prior to operating its underground trenchless bore in close proximity to that line.

Failing to make careful and prudent efforts to confirm the location of the Liberty Utilities gas main prior to using power-driven equipment for trenchless excavation in the approximate location of the gas main.

Failing to adequately hand excavate the area where the bore head would intersect with the natural gas line to visualize the gas line prior to continuing directional drilling.

Boring into and thereby rupturing the wall of the Liberty Utilities gas main causing damage to the line and allowing natural gas to escape.

Failing to plan and engineer the project so as to install the fiber optic cable with a clearance of 12 or more away from the underground natural gas line.

Failing to have trained and qualified employees on the job to perform the underground trenching activity.

Failing to confirm the location of the natural gas main by excavating a hole two feet below the planned bore path and visually monitoring the bore head as it crossed the entire approximate location of the underground facilities based on the surface markings.

The lawsuit also claims that Sellenriek Construction and Alfra Comunication breached their legal duties by:

Failing to maintain a minimum vertical separation of three feet from other facilities that existed in the right-of-way, including the Liberty Utilities gas main.

Failing to cease drilling and investigate reports from members of the general public that the strong smell of gas was prevalent in the area.

Failing to promptly notify Liberty Utilities that occupants of nearby buildings and homes had advised them that the smell of gas was noticeable in their neighborhood.

Failing to ascertain the exact horizontal and vertical (depth) location of the Liberty Utilities gas main running underneath the alleyway on 18th Street between South Street and Franklin Avenue before engaging in directional drilling in close proximity to that line.

Failing to excavate a hole two feet or more below the planned boring path to verify the horizontal and vertical location of the boring device in a manner calculated to enable the device to be visually observed by the excavator as it crossed the width of the marked location of the underground facilities.

Failing to halt its directional drilling activities when it became or should have become obvious to the Defendant Sellenriek Construction work crew that they had not identified the Liberty Utilities gas main that they were attempting to drill underneath the alleyway on 18th Street between South Street and Franklin Avenue.

Drilling into and thereby rupturing the wall of the Liberty Utilities high-pressure gas main running underneath the alleyway on 18th Street between South Street and Franklin Avenue while engaged in directional drilling.

Failing to perform a proper inspection of the area of the intended directional drilling to determine likely utilities present and request clarification through the Missouri One Call system.

Failing to train its employees in the proper and safe procedures, standards and laws governing its horizontal directional drilling operation.

All of the defendants failed to take reasonable, necessary and appropriate steps to ensure that the horizontal location of all utilities of the gas line in the path of the proposed drilling would be properly marked or otherwise ascertained, the lawsuit says.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android

This lawsuit was filed in the Circuit Court of Lafayette County, Missouri (Case No. 25LF-CV00517).

Stay with FOX4 for the latest updates on this lawsuit and other news related to the deadly Lexington explosion.

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.
ALCOA, Tenn. (WATE)  The Tennessee Department of Transportation plans to close a section of Louisville Road in Alcoa on Thursday as part of a project to install a pedestrian bridge.

Louisville Road (also known as State Route 334) is scheduled to be closed between Proffitt Springs Road and Alcoa Highway until Saturday, May 17. Northbound traffic will be rerouted onto West Hunt Road to Alcoa Highway and Pellissippi Parkway. Drivers will then be directed to the Topside Road exit. Meanwhile, southbound traffic will be rerouted to Proffitt Springs Road to Highway 321.

Athens couple out $9,000 after contractor never finishes job

(City of Alcoa government)

This is part of the Eagle Greenway Project, the city explained in a Facebook post. Their goal is to install a pedestrian bridge over the CSX railroad near Louisville Road and Liberty Street.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We apologize for this inconvenience and are working diligently with TDOT to ensure the project is completed as quickly as possible, the city government wrote.

Former patients of TN-based clinics now eligible for compensation

On their website, TDOT advised drivers to use caution as workers will be present.

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.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney has filed felony charges against a college campus security guard accused of shooting two co-workers last week.

Jesse Figueroa, 40, faces murder, attempted murder and firearms charges in the May 2 shooting at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology in Inglewood.

Law enforcement rushed to the campus on reports of an active shooter and found two female victims, a college dean and a receptionist, suffering from gunshot wounds.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Police said the suspect fled the scene in a vehicle. Figueroa was arrested a short time later in Koreatown.

This was not any act of random violence in the city, Inglewood Mayor James Butts told The Los Angeles Times. This was an act of workplace violence.

Two people were hospitalized after a shooter opened fire at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology in Inglewood on May 2, 2025. (KTLA)

Tuesdays charges indicate that one of the victims succumbed to her wounds. Their identities were not released, and prosecutors did not elaborate on a possible motive for the shooting.

Any student, faculty member or employee should feel safe and secure going to school, said District Attorney Nathan Hochman. This horrific act of gun violence has shaken Spartan College and our entire community.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hochman said Figueroa is a convicted felon who was not legally allowed to possess a firearm. He is charged with several gun sentencing enhancements.

Figueroa was scheduled to be arraigned on Tuesday. If convicted as charged, he faces life in 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.
Even after a gruesome unsolved murder in an upscale Valley Village apartment complex last month, tenants continue to see what appears to be transients roaming the halls of their building.

On April 26, the body of 53-year-old Menash Manny Hidra was found inside his fifth-floor unit, the top story of the Ashton Sherman Village Apartments in the 126000 block of Riverside Drive.

Three days before the unsettling and tragic discovery, one resident who lives near the murder scene told KTLA that around 3 a.m. on April 23, he heard screams and someone yelling for help.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I just woke up to some loud noises, something crashing, he told KTLA. There was screaming, and I called our security and, also, right after that, I called the police.

That resident, like many others building tenants, did not want his name shared.

Doorbell camera footage obtained by KTLA and, later, released by detectives with the Los Angeles Police Department, showed a man, who police say is a suspect in the murder, roaming the halls of the building just before 3 a.m. and attempting to get into apartments.

LAPD has been tight-lipped about the details of the murder, only saying in a news release that a suspect unlawfully entered the victims apartment and a physical altercation ensued, which resulted in the victims death.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the latest security footage obtained by KTLA, a man with a bicycle who does not live in the apartments, according to residents, is seen roaming the halls of the Ashton complexs second building as recently as Tuesday morning, May 6.

A man, who tenants say does not live in the building, seen roaming apartment complex halls early in the morning on May 6, 2025. (viewer pic) A man, who tenants say does not live in the building, seen roaming apartment complex halls early in the morning on May 6, 2025. (viewer pic) A man, who tenants say does not live in the building, seen roaming apartment complex halls early in the morning on May 6, 2025. (viewer pic) Just four days after the body of a 53-year-old man was found, this man who does not live in the building, was seen roaming the halls just before midnight on April 30, 2025. (viewer pic) Scaffolding seen on the outside of the Ashton Sherman Village Apartments on May 6, 2025. (viewer pic) The suspect seen in surveillance footage attempting to gain entry into apartments on April 23, 2025. (viewer image) An apparently bloodstained door handle leading to an exterior stairwell. (viewer pic) What appears to be bloodstains on the exterior of the building between a reportedly empty apartments balcony and the victims balcony. (viewer pic) A broken security fob seen on a door leading to the exterior of the building. (viewer pic)

In video captured at 3:41 a.m., the man, wearing a red sweater cap, is seen walking into one of the stairwell exits with his bike. Six minutes later, hes again seen with his bike roaming the halls on a different residents camera.

Kidnapping attempt prompts lockdown of L.A. elementary school

On April 30, just four days after the 53-year-olds body was found, surveillance footage shows another man, who residents say is not a tenant, with a trash bag slung over his shoulder inside the second building.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On edge about building security, Ashton residents have repeatedly complained that management failed to address many issues that predate the grisly murder.

In the wake of the homicide, many feel that theyve done little, outside of hiring courtesy patrols, to fix broken exterior doors and issues of transients getting on the roof.

Portions of the building, which is currently getting a paint job, now have scaffolding in front of it, which one resident who did not want to be identified referred to as a a real life Chutes and Ladders for anyone wanting to access the building.

KTLA has repeatedly reached out to management at the Ashton Sherman Village Apartments for comment, though, so far, have not received any response.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Anyone who recognizes the suspect wanted in connection with the murder on or who has information about the investigation is urged to contact LAPDs Valley Bureau at 818-374-9559. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800-222-8477 or leave tips online at www.lacrimestoppers.org.

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.
Sedgwick man pleads guilty to child sex crimes in Harvey County

HARVEY COUNTY, Kan. (KSNW)  A Sedgwick man has pleaded guilty to multiple child sex crimes involving a victim under the age of 10, Harvey County authorities announced.

On May 1, 2025, Jerad Carmichael entered a guilty plea to charges of rape of a child under 14 and aggravated criminal sodomy. The offenses occurred between April 2023 and April 2024 in Harvey County. The victim was under the age of 10, according to the county attorneys office.

Fugitive in Wichita chase found hiding in fridge

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Carmichael is scheduled to be sentenced on July 16. He faces a potential life sentence without the possibility of parole for 25 years. If released, he would be subject to lifetime registration as a sexual offender and lifetime post-release supervision.

The case was investigated and prosecuted with the cooperation of the Harvey County Sheriffs Office, Sedgwick County Sheriffs Office, and the Heart to Heart Child Advocacy Center.

For more Kansas news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news by downloading our mobile app and signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track 3 Weather app by clicking 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 KSN-TV.
President Trump clashed with the newly-elected Canadian Prime Minister at the White House, where the Prime Minister told him, were not for sale. MSNBCs Ari Melber reports on Trumps flailing trade war as major companies sound the alarm. (The Beat's YouTube playlist: https://msnbc.com/ari Beat merch: www.msnbc.com/Beat5)
The Boston Police Department has updated its Most Wanted list.

Detectives are currently working to track down and arrest the following individuals, according to the Boston Police Department:

Gerald Vick -- Wanted on eight counts of assault and battery with a firearm

Brendan Houlihan -- Escape from a penal institution

Krishnamarie Santiago-Cosme -- Armed robbery, assault with a dangerous weapon

Edward DeLossantos -- Firearms

Ray Johnson -- Unarmed assault with intent to rob

Maurise Hunt -- Assault with a dangerous weapon, larceny

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Anyone with information about the whereabouts of these individuals is asked to call CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS or text the word TIP to CRIME (27463) or online at Boston police CrimeStoppers.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
KABUL, May 7 (Xinhua) -- A total of 2,276 Afghan families with 12,565 members returned to their homeland from neighboring Iran and Pakistan from Sunday to Tuesday, Afghanistan's High Commission for Addressing Returnees Problems said Wednesday.

The refugees have come home via the Torkham border crossing in eastern Nangarhar province, the Spin Boldak border crossing in southern Kandahar province, the Islam Qala border crossing in western Herat province, and the Abrisham border crossing in western Nimroz province, it said.

The commission provides temporary shelters, nourishment, water, medical care, and transportation services to their respective provinces for the returnees.

In April, more than 250,000 Afghan refugees have returned to their homeland from Pakistan and Iran, according to the UNHCR on Sunday.

Nearly 7 million Afghan refugees, most of whom are undocumented migrants, are currently living abroad, with most living in Iran and Pakistan.

The authorities of both countries have asked undocumented foreign nationals to end their illegal stay and return to their homes.

The Afghan interim government has been repeatedly calling upon Afghan refugees to end living abroad as refugees and return home to contribute to the rebuilding of their war-torn homeland. 
Alexander Lukashenko, the self-proclaimed president of Belarus, has pardoned 42 individuals convicted under charges of so-called "extremism".

Source: Belarusian news outlet Zerkalo.io, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Lukashenkos press service announced that he pardoned 42 people "on the eve of Victory Day celebrations" on 9 May. The statement claims those pardoned had "admitted their guilt and expressed remorse".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Among those released are 18 women and 24 men, of which 10 are over the age of 50 and 13 suffer from chronic illnesses.

This is the first round of pardons in 2025 and the seventh since June 2024. The previous one took place in December 2024.

On 9 January, a Belarusian court sentenced Mykola Khil, an employee of the EU Delegation in Belarus, to four years in prison.

In late April, Belarus also released a US citizen who had been accused of plotting an assassination attempt on Lukashenko.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
Video above: This FOX 5/KUSI video provides driving safety tips.

OCEANSIDE, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI)  A quiet morning in Oceanside was disrupted Wednesday when a semi tractor-truck veered off the road and slammed into a Starbucks near the citys downtown, leaving two people injured and the building temporarily unsafe.



According to the Oceanside Fire Department, the crash occurred around 4:45 a.m. at the Starbucks located at 801 N Coast Highway. Fire crews arrived on scene and found the semi had breached the structure, causing significant damage to the building.

Woman killed in I-805 pile-up crash identified

The scene of a crash at an Oceanside Starbucks on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. (Courtesy of the Oceanside Fire Department)

The trucks driver was trapped in the cab, and the situation was further complicated by an active electrical hazard, delaying rescue efforts until San Diego Gas & Electric crews arrived to shut down the buildings power, OFD explained in a press release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Once the buildings power was shut off, firefighters were able to rescue the driver, who, along with a Starbucks employee, was transported to Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla. Their injuries are considered non-life-threatening.

All remaining Starbucks staff were safely evacuated from the building.

Due to concerns about the semis diesel fuel tanks, San Diego Fire-Rescues HAZMAT team was called to the scene as a precaution. Despite this, no spills or hazardous material leaks were reported in connection to this incident. Meanwhile, power in the surrounding area was temporarily out but has since been restored by SDG&E.

The scene of a crash at an Oceanside Starbucks on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. (Courtesy of the Oceanside Fire Department)

We are grateful that no serious injuries occurred, considering the scale of the incident, OFD noted. The coordinated efforts of our crews, the Oceanside Police Department, and SDG&E ensured a rapid and safe response.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Traffic on Coast Highway is expected to be heavily impacted for several hours. Motorists have been encouraged to avoid the area and use alternative routes until the scene is cleared.

At this point, the Starbucks building has been deemed temporarily unsafe, pending a structural evaluation.

The Oceanside Police Department is actively investigating the cause of 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 FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI)  The Rhode Island Senates Education Committee passed a bill Wednesday that would ban cell phones from being used on school grounds during the day, after a delay to modify some of its language.

A vote was originally scheduled for April 30, but the committee pushed it back to add language that protects the privacy of students devices, Senate spokesperson Greg Pare said.

RELATED: Senate committee opts not to take up bill banning cell phones in schools

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

State Sen. Melissa Murray, D-Woonsocket, introduced the legislation in March. In the House, state Rep. Julie Casimiro, D-North Kingstown, has introduced similar legislation, which was held for further study in April.

All public school districts would be required to have a policy for the use of personal electronic devices aimed at reducing distractions and maintain environments focused on learning, according to the bills text. Districts would be allowed to make some exceptions, the bill states.

If the bill is signed into law, it would take effect on Aug. 1, 2026.

The bill now heads to the full Senate for consideration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

NEXT: 10 takeaways from this years RI Kids Count factbook

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.

Follow us on social media:

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

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.
BOSTON (WWLP)  The Massachusetts Senate announced its version of the fiscal year 2026 budget, and it has some notable differences from the Houses recently passed version.

This $61.3 billion budget is lower than both the governors and the Houses drafts, but still more than double the rate of growth as last year, at $3.6 billion.

Neither House nor Senate versions feature tax increases. The Senate plans instead to use over a billion dollars in one-time spending, in partnership with other functionally non-discretionary increases for health and human services, education funding, insurance, and more.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Senate is also calling to redirect millionaires tax money, which can only be spent on education and transportation. The branch is proposing to spend $1.95 billion of the funding, with two-thirds going to education initiatives, and the remainder towards the MBTA and regional transportation authorities.

The money the Senate wants to spend on transportation is much less than the governor and House planned for, and education is funded much more, which could prove to be a point of contention in negotiations.

The Senate also wants to increase some municipal funding that the House is leveling.

Senate budget debate begins in two weeks, but budget revisions could happen before or after this debate, depending on federal funding levels.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This budget is expected to pass by Memorial Day, and negotiators will then need to work out their differences with the House.

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.

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.
The Senate panel in charge of tax and fee legislation forecasts rosier revenue growth for the next two years but more than $260 million less than what Gov. Kelly Ayotte had estimated in presenting her spending plan last February.

Ayotte told reporters she stands behind the estimates of her experts and said she couldnt understand why Republicans on the Senate Ways and Means Committee were working with Democrats in a manner that could force a state tax increase to support needed services.

I disagree with that vote and I also will tell you this, I dont know why Republicans are working with Democrats, putting us in a position to raise taxes, Ayotte said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Democratic members of the Senate Ways and Means Committee were less optimistic about future revenue growth and Ayotte said the reason is political.

It is pretty ironic the Democrats are trying to masquerade as fiscal conservatives on revenues, Ayotte said.

They want to raise taxes and to have Republicans join Democrats on the revenue numbers doesnt make any sense to me.

Ayotte said she remains just as certain her revenue numbers will prove more accurate as she did in first putting them together three months ago.

At the end of the day, the budget that passes, the lady who has to manage all this is me, Ayotte added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Senate Ways and Means Committee estimates were $228.1 million more than what the Houses counterpart panel had come up with to help produce a House-approved budget in March.

But Ayottes numbers were higher nearly across the board, $42 million more in the current year that ends June 30, $37.5 million next year and $183 million more in the last year of the next budget cycle that concludes June 30, 2027.

Chairman Tim Lang, R-Sanbornton, came to the committee after huddling with Ayottes staff on the numbers and had suggested in several cases higher figures than what his committee settled upon.

The issue is where we think the economy is going, said Lang, adding he believes growth will be slower next year but should ramp back up in the second year. I do think its going to be improving in 2027.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Senate Deputy Democratic Leader Cindy Rosenwald of Nashua said she was much more pessimistic, particularly in the short term.

The economy has shrunk in the first quarter, consumer confidence has slipped and were likely to see supply chain problems in the next few months, Rosenwald said.

I think the chances for recession are much higher than they were a year ago.

Senate Dems view extreme uncertainty

Sen. Donovan Fenton, D-Keene, the owner of an automotive sales business, said at one point revenue growth will be on the low end, with tariffs, higher prices and an economic slowdown all combining to confound experts about the future.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I think there is extreme uncertainty, Fenton said.

Sen. Keith Murphy, R-Manchester, the owner of a restaurant and conference center, said he agreed the future was cloudy.

I dont talk to anyone at my businesses that says the economy is going to be surging, Murphy said.

As a former House member, Murphy recalled Democrats in control of the Legislature in 2008 forecast huge revenue growth that didnt come to pass.

An $800 million budget deficit at that time led to layoffs, deep spending cuts, an ill-fated LLC Tax that was later repealed and many higher fees to balance the books.

I was here in 2010 when we came out of a big, big hole. I dont want to see a repeat of that. Id rather be surprised that more revenues came in than we had expected, Murphy said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The biggest rift between Ayotte and the Senates numbers were in expected returns from the states two main business taxes  the 7.5% Business Profits Tax and 0.55% Business Enterprise Tax  that generate about 40% of taxes that support the budget.

Revenue Commissioner Lindsey Stepp had estimated a range of business tax growth between 2 and 8% for each of the next two years.

Ayotte took the higher number with the blessing of Stepp and Brian Gottlob, the states chief economist, who works with the Department of Employment Security.

The House budget had relied on the lower range while the Senate prediction falls somewhere in the middle, which means it calls for bringing in $160 million less than Ayotte had forecast.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ayottes estimates were not all higher than the Senates.

After meeting with Lottery Executive Director Charles McIntyre, Lang convinced his panel to raise the estimate for legal wagering profits $35 million in each year over Ayottes estimate.

Lang said the growing popularity of historic horse racing machines, the returns from the opening of a mega-charity casino in Nashua and one to come in Salem, and a future legalization of slot machine gambling all justify raising this forecast.

Whats Next: The Senate Finance Committee will use these higher revenue estimates to restore some but not all of the cuts in state spending contained in the House-approved budget.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Prospects: A House-Senate conference committee on the budget will decide what the final revenue forecast is with the benefit of reviewing receipts that come in during May and some of June. In the past, the final revenue numbers on occasion have come in even higher than what the governor, House or Senate had settled upon.

klandrigan@unionleader.com
A bipartisan group of senators sent a letter to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. warning him that cuts to the agency could severely impact the Indian Health Service (IHS).

The letter -- delivered on Tuesday from Sens. Jeff Merkley (D- Ore.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) -- expressed concern over the IHS' ability to take care for more than 2.8 million American Indians and Alaska Natives.

In April, HHS began laying off about 10,000 workers and consolidating 28 institutes and centers into 15 new divisions. Including the roughly 10,000 people who have left over the last few months through early retirement or deferred resignation programs, the overall staff at HHS is expected to fall from 82,000 to around 62,000 -- or about a quarter of its workforce.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

MORE: HHS firings, questioning safety of vaccines: How the Trump administration may be 'attacking' science

IHS has been exempted from probationary employee staffing reductions, but the senators noted that cuts to other agencies within HHS that serve Native communities are impacting IHS.

They added that the hiring freeze is exacerbating existing critical staffing issues, including a need for laboratory technicians and administrative personnel.

PHOTO: A small child walks toward the front door of the Public Health Service Indian Hospital on the Standing Rock Reservation in Fort Yates, N.D., Oct. 14, 2008. (Will Kincaid/AP)

"We urge you to take immediate action to ensure that the IHS programs serving Native communities have the resources and staffing necessary to fulfill their missions and halt any further actions affecting Tribal health care delivery without first engaging in meaningful Tribal consultation," the letter read.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Merkley, Schatz and Murkowski also described in the letter how American Indians and Alaska Natives are an incredibly vulnerable population "falling behind in nearly every health metric."

In the 2023 National Health Interview Survey -- run by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) -- 21.8% of those who identify as only American Indian or Alaska Native reported being in fair or poor health, which was the highest rate seen among any racial or ethnic group.

NCHS data show American Indians and Alaska Natives are disproportionately affected by diabetes, angina -- which is chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart -- and disability.

MORE: Why Native American children have higher rates of disability

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Additionally, American Indians and Alaska Natives have the lowest life expectancy of any racial or ethnic group in the U.S. with an average expectancy of 67.9 years as of 2022, according to the CDC.

"Native communities deserve reliable access to quality health care, and we urge you to reevaluate all actions that jeopardize delivery of any health care services for American Indians and Alaska Natives," the senators wrote.

HHS did not immediately reply to ABC News' request for comment

ABC News' Cheyenne Haslett and Will McDuffie contributed to this report.

Senators send letter to RFK Jr. warning that HHS cuts could hurt Indian Health Service originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has arrived in Moscow on the afternoon of 7 May to attend the Victory Day parade. [a Russian holiday commemorating the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in 1945, celebrated on 9 May  ed.]

Source: European Pravda, citing Serbian public broadcaster RTS

Details: Vucic was met at the airport by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko and a guard of honour.

The plane carrying Vucic first landed in Baku, Azerbaijan, where it awaited clearance to continue its journey due to "hostilities between Russia and Ukraine", namely, the presence of Ukrainian loitering munitions in Russian airspace and ongoing air defence activity.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Kremlin reported that he is due to meet with Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin on Friday 9 May.

Background:

Since Latvia and Lithuania have banned Vucic's plane from entering their airspace, the exact route he took to reach the Russian capital remains unclear.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and Vucic will be the only European leaders attending Putin's 9 May Victory Day celebrations in Moscow.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
(Reuters) -Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Wednesday resumed his flight to Moscow for Russia's parade marking the 80th anniversary of victory in World War Two after his plane was halted in Baku due to ongoing Russian-Ukrainian conflict.

The flight set down temporarily in Baku, Azerbaijan after several regional states shut their airspace over Ukrainian drone strikes in Moscow, which forced most of the Russian capital's airports to close, Tanjug news agency reported.

Vucic was delayed for about two hours at Baku airport before taking off again for Moscow.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Vucic is set to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on May 9, the day of the parade, the semi-official Serbian news agency reported, citing a Kremlin official.

European Union officials have urged presidents of nations aspiring to join the EU, including Vucic, to align their foreign policies with the bloc and avoid Moscow's World War Two victory rites because of Russia's three-year-old invasion of Ukraine.

Last weekend, Vucic abruptly returned from the United States where he had expected to meet with President Donald Trump, citing health reasons. But his physicians said his condition had improved and he could return to work in mid-week.

(Reporting by Daria Sito-Sucic; editing by Mark Heinrich)
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  A man accused of killing one person and wounding another in a shooting has been found incompetent to stand trial at this time.



In February of 2023, Woodbury County Sheriffs Office deputies responded to a shooting on Buchanan Avenue in Sergeant Bluff. At the scene, they found Raymond Rogers and Ashley Rogers with gunshot wounds. They also discovered someone had died in the shooting and identified him as Gerele Eli Jones.



Authorities believed Raymond Rogers, 44, was the suspect in the case, and his gunshot wound was a self-inflicted injury.

A mugshot of Raymond Rogers from the Woodbury County Jail

In December of 2024, the defense asked the court to determine if Roger was competent to stand trial after court proceedings were paused earlier in the year. This is because Rogers injury, a gunshot wound to the face, likely caused a neurocognitive disorder that impacts his memory.

Court documents alleged Rogers and Ashley Rogers were married for over a decade before the marriage began to fail, prompting Ashley Rogers to leave the relationship. After they separated, Ashley Rogers began to live with her boyfriend, Gerele Jones. Following the deadly shooting, Raymond Rogers was charged with first-degree murder, attempted murder, and violation of a no contact order.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Story continues below

On Tuesday, May 6, the Court concluded, because Roger suffers from the disorder and doesnt understand the victims were killed and injured, he is incompetent to undergo a trial at this time. Proceedings are suspended indefinitely.



Earlier this year, Ashley Rogers filed a lawsuit, claiming Sioux City Police Officer Jamie Mattas and the City of Sioux City failed to enforce a restraining order she had against Rogers.

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.
A number of fires in East Lyme are being investigated by state police.

The series of fires, which date back to the fall, are under investigation by the Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit, according to Connecticut State Police.

State police said the investigation is being conducted in conjunction with the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and East Lyme officials.

Authorities could not release any additional information, citing the active and ongoing investigation, state police said.
ISLAMABAD, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan has shot down five Indian fighter jets in retaliation for overnight airstrikes conducted by India at multiple locations within Pakistan, the country's defense minister said early Wednesday.

"At this hour, I can confirm that at least five Indian fighter jets have been downed," Defense Minister Khawaja Asif told local media.

The minister said the Indian military had vacated several forward posts along the Line of Control in Indian-controlled Kashmir following "heavy retaliatory fire" from the Pakistani side.

Pakistan condemned India's unprovoked and blatant act of war and violation of Pakistan's sovereignty.

In a statement, Pakistani foreign office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan said that the Indian air force has violated Pakistan's sovereignty using standoff weapons, targeting civilian population across the international border in Bahawalpur and Sheikhupura districts in Pakistan's eastern Punjab province, as well as Muzaffarabad, Bagh, and Kotli districts in the Pakistan-controlled Kashmir. 
(FOX40.COM)  The Elk Grove police department warned the community about an uptick in distraction robberies that have targeted the most vulnerable people in the area.

Heads up, Elk Grove! In the last 6 weeks, we have had 5 distraction robberies reported, with the most recent happening over the weekend, EGPD said on social media.

Missing California woman Kelsy Ramos found dead

Police described distraction robberies as a deception tactic thieves use to divert a victims attention while they steal their property. This can involve a variety of scenarios, such as asking for directions, going in for a hug, spilling a drink, or creating a commotion. Each tactic allows the thief or an accomplice to steal wallets, purses, or other valuables such as jewelry, according to EGPD.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The good news is that in one case, weve arrested two suspects and are actively pursuing strong leads in the others, EGPD said. The thieves, who have been women and men, have been targeting the elderly or women usually wearing jewelry.

California releases 3.5 million salmon into Sacramento River amid population crisis

Police advised the Elk Grove community to be cautious of strangers who invade personal space.

If someone you dont know approaches you too closely, especially with unusual behavior like asking for a hug, trying to place something on you, or creating a distraction, step back and protect your belongings, EGPD said. Politely decline and walk away.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Additionally, police advised the community to talk with vulnerable friends and family about distraction robberies and to trust their instincts.

A quick conversation today can help prevent a theft tomorrow, EGPD said. If something feels off like someone asking odd questions, lingering nearby, or trying to divert your attention, trust your gut. Move to a safe place and report the behavior to police right away.

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 former college admissions director and a doctor employed at a VA Medical Center are among several accused child sex predators from Massachusetts arrested during a five-day nationwide crackdown, FBI officials said Wednesday.

The men arrested also include a Level 3 sex offender from Chicopee, a Level 2 sex offender from Raynham, and others from Duxbury, Holyoke, Agawam, Wareham, and Douglas.

Last week alone, the FBI arrested 205 people and rescued 115 children across the country as part of Operation Restore Justice, a five-day, sweeping FBI-led initiative to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators across the country with all 55 FBI field offices participating, including FBI Boston.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This was a joint effort with local, state, and federal partners to highlight our ongoing efforts to confront these crimes. The subjects arrested in this operation included those in positions of public trust  law enforcement, members of the military, and teachers, the FBI said in a statement Wednesday. Others are your neighbors, proving criminal activity can be found in the most familiar places."

There are few situations more urgent than when a child is physically at risk, and as Operation Restore Justice has shown, child predators come in many different forms, James Crowley, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBIs Boston Division, said in a statement.

As horrific as these alleged crimes are, they are not rare, Crowley said, adding that FBI Bostons Child Exploitation-Human Trafficking Task Force is committed to finding these child sex abusers, locking them up, and ensuring those they have victimized are safe and well-supported.

U.S. Attorney Leah Foley said in a statement that Protecting children from exploitation is among the most sacred responsibilities we have as law enforcement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Each case serves as a difficult reminder that child predators are embedded in our communities  often in roles that increase their direct exposure to or contact with children or allow them to hide behind a keyboard online, Foley said. But make no mistake, we will uncover them, arrest them, and hold them accountable, no matter how long it takes or how far we have to go.

The FBI Boston arrested and charged seven people, including:

Jacob Henriques of Boston, a former Assistant Director of Admissions at Emmanuel College, who is charged with attempted sex trafficking of a minor. Henriques is accused of soliciting an underage college applicant to engage in commercial sex with him.

Level 1 sex offender Justin Ouimette of Holyoke, who was previously convicted by the state for possessing child pornography, has been charged federally with possessing child sex abuse material. According to the court documents, in July 2024, during a search of Ouimettes residence and person, over 200 files that appeared to depict child sex abuse material, including children as young as three years old, were allegedly located on Ouimettes electronic devices. A search of Ouimettes Dropbox resulted in the discovery of an additional 200 files allegedly depicting CSAM.

Cess Frazier of Boston, who is charged with allegedly receiving child sexual abuse material. During a search of Fraziers cell phone, approximately 100 media files that depicted CSAM were allegedly found saved in Telegram Messenger. The minor victims in the files are alleged to be between approximately three and 10 years old.

Warren Messeck of Agawam, who is charged with allegedly possessing child sexual abuse material. During a search of his residence, the FBI recovered over 40 electronic devices including a laptop, hard drives, and other electronic storage devices. A forensic examination allegedly revealed over 10,000 files depicting CSAM on six devices.

Brandon Bendall , of Wareham, who is charged with allegedly possessing and receiving child sexual abuse material. During a search of Bendalls residence and cell phone, approximately 9,400 images and videos of CSAM, including images of children as young as infants being sexually assaulted, were allegedly located.

Registered sex offender David Fernandes III of New York, who is charged with allegedly sending obscenity to an 11-year-old in Massachusetts and being a registered sex offender when he did it.

Registered sex offender Joseph A. Maile of Presque Isle, Maine, who is charged by criminal complaint for allegedly attempting to sex traffic a child, and enticement of a minor. Maile allegedly used social media accounts to offer various minors money to engage in sex acts with him.

Throughout the entire month of April, including the weeks leading up to this surge, the FBI, along with state and local law enforcement partners, arrested an additional 190 perpetrators on charges related to crimes against children.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They are accused of various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking.

With nearly 400 arrests in one month, these actions are the direct results of the FBIs continued efforts to track down and stop sexual predators before they can harm more victims, FBI officials said.

Special agents and officers on FBI Bostons Child Exploitation  Human Trafficking Task Force arrested 26 people last month, including:

Level 3 Sex Offender Carl Norton , of Chicopee, who was previously convicted of attempted rape of a minor and unlawful contact with a minor, was charged federally for allegedly transferring obscene material to a minor female victim who he believed to be 12 years old.

Level 2 Sex Offender Dache Barros , of Raynham, who was charged by the Raynham Police Department with allegedly possessing child sexual abuse material following an investigation by FBI Bostons Child Exploitation  Human Trafficking Task Force and the Boston Police Department.

Daniel Debreczeni , of Duxbury, who was charged federally with allegedly distributing child sexual abuse material. Debreczeni is accused of distributing three videos containing child pornography by posting the videos on a file sharing site. The children in the three videos appeared to be between approximately two, three and eight years old.

Sven Knudsen Ljaam , a physician employed at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Bedford, Mass., was charged federally for allegedly receiving and possessing child sexual abuse material.

Shakera Stacks Pina , of Boston, who was charged by the Boston Police Department for allegedly engaging in human trafficking, deriving support from prostitution, resisting arrest, and possession of a Class D Substance (Marijuana) with Intent to Distribute, following a joint operation between Boston Police Departments Human Trafficking Unit and FBI Bostons Child Exploitation - Human Trafficking Task Force.

Miguel Gietany , of Douglas, who was arrested in Rhode Island on state charges following a joint operation with the Rhode Island State Police and the FBI. Gietany is charged with two counts of indecent solicitation of a child. He allegedly traveled to Rhode Island to have sex with whom he believed was a 14-year-old boy.

David Kaufman, of Maryland, who was charged federally for allegedly coercing and enticing an 18-year-old from Massachusetts to travel to his penthouse at the Four Seasons and engage in in sex acts with him, which he video-recorded. According to court documents, Kaufman has allegedly been victimizing teenage minors, paying them to travel and engage in sex acts with him.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

FBI Bostons Child Exploitation  Human Trafficking Task Forces investigate these cases and coordinate efforts to counter all threats of child abuse and exploitation that fall under FBI jurisdiction in the region, officials said. This includes the production, sharing, and possession of child sexual abuse material; domestic or international travel to engage sexually with children; sex trafficking, and the extortion of children to provide sexually explicit material of themselves.

The units also work to identify, locate, and recover child victims in addition to capturing sex offenders.

The FBI partners with the nonprofit National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation reported via its 24-hour hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.

In 2004, the FBI launched the Endangered Child Alert Program to identify individuals involved in the sexual abuse of children and the production of child sexual abuse material. To date, ECAP has identified 36 individuals.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This operation was the result of a dedicated and targeted effort, reflecting countless hours of work by hundreds of special agents, intel analysts, and other FBI personnel, FBI officials said Wednesday.

It further highlights the FBIs commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face, officials said. While the Bureau works relentlessly to investigate these crimes every day, this effort also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of prevention and community education.

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
ST. CHARLES COUNTY, Mo.  Bodycam video reveals the actions of bounty hunters from Louisiana whove been convicted for kidnapping a woman from a St. Peters, Missouri, home.

They are not police officers! you can hear the woman yell as one bounty hunter says to another, I told you she was going to be a problem. Why dont you tase her?

The woman had misdemeanor warrants in a domestic case and was being dragged through a Sullivan, Missouri, convenience store.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As the woman yells out in pain, a bounty hunter tells her, Then get up. Im not going to say it again. Youre under arrest. Get up.

Youre not a police officer! the woman shouts.

A bounty hunter answers, I dont need to be a cop to arrest you.

FOX 2 News is protecting the womans identity because federal prosecutors identified her as a victim. Two bounty hunters, wearing black shirts that said agent, have been convicted for kidnapping because of their actions.

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Breaking News

A St. Peters resident called police after the bounty hunters allegedly pushed their way into their home, dragged the victim out of a bed where she was sleeping, handcuffed her, shackled her feet, and put her in an SUV before driving off.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She seemed very afraid on the phone, Sgt. Melissa Doss, St. Peters Police Department, said, adding that their investigating officer quickly discovered the bounty hunters were not licensed in Missouri.

Theres licensing thats there for a reason to not only protect the bail bondsmen and the companies theyre working for, but its also to protect the people  our citizens.

An officer warned in a phone call that the bounty hunters should return the woman to St. Peters.

You realize by taking her out of state, youre also committing another felony for kidnapping, the officer said.

Instead of returning the victim, the bounty hunters dropped her off in a Mississippi jail, where authorities released her because they didnt have any charges against her.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Both bounty hunters were eventually convicted for kidnapping. Wayne Lozier, 46, was sentenced last month to three years in prison; time hed already served at that point. His partner, Jody Sullivan, had previously been sentenced to five years of probation.

FOX 2 News was unable to reach either defendant for a comment. The phone number for their business, Bayou Boyz, is disconnected.

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.
Serhii Mandryk was on a call with acquaintances in Canada in the early hours of May 7. An air raid alert had sounded in Kyiv a few hours earlier but he decided to stay at home and go ahead with it rather than head for a shelter.

He assured everyone that "everything is fine," but five minutes later he heard the familiar buzz of a Russian attack drone overhead.

"Then an explosion," the retired photographer told the Kyiv Independent later that day, standing outside the damaged five-storey apartment building in which he lived.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Shards from the window fell. I saw that the balcony above my apartment was on fire. I was not injured, but my apartment was damaged, windows were shattered, and tiles fell off the walls," he added.

The building, in the Shevchenkivskyi district of Kyiv now has a large, black hole on the upper floor where the drone struck. Passersby look on in shock. Some take photos.

The smell of spring chestnut blossoms mixes with that of burnt furniture  glass shards, a blackened potato, and parts of the drone lie in the grass nearby.



"Shards from the window fell. I saw that the balcony above my apartment was on fire."

Serhii Mandryk who lives in the residential building damaged as a result of a Russian drone attack on Kyiv on May 7, 2025 (Danylo Antoniuk/The Kyiv Independent)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While Mandryk was lucky to escape uninjured, others were less fortunate. Russia had launched a combined missile and drone attack on Kyiv overnight, killing two people and injuring eight others, including four children.

Three of the children were hospitalized with severe burns.

The two people who died lived in the same building as Mandryk  a 64-year-old woman identified as Tetiana by residents in the building, and her son in his late 20s.

According to the Kyiv Animal Rescue Group, both were volunteers for the organization and looked after 10 cats in their apartment. Only one is known to have survived the drone attack.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Tetiana and I grew up together," Liudmyla, a resident on the fourth floor of the building who asked to only be identified by her first name, told the Kyiv Independent.

"My God, she was still active, even though she was a pensioner. She fed all the birds, dogs, and cats," she added.

A local resident holds her cat near the residential building damaged as a result of a Russian drone attack in Kyiv, Ukraine on May 7, 2025 (Danylo Antoniuk/The Kyiv Independent)

Outside the damaged building, a team of volunteers are already at work, handing out coffee, water, pies, and mashed potatoes with meat cutlets.

Near the tent they've set up as their temporary base, a woman sits cradling her 11-year-old black cat, Krasulia. A tag depicting the Ukrainian flag hangs around its neck.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"She's a poor thing," the woman told the Kyiv Independent, requesting not to be named.

"She crawled under the bed. I had to pull her out  everyone was panicking. We woke up to the sound of air defenses and then we heard a drone flying very low, she said.

And then the drone struck  she and her children ran out of the building as a neighbor went round banging on doors to make sure everyone was getting out.

A view on a burned flat of a residential building damaged as a result of a Russian drone attack in Kyiv, Ukraine on May 07, 2025 (Danylo Antoniuk/The Kyiv Independent)

A view on a burned flat of a residential building damaged as a result of a Russian drone attack in Kyiv, Ukraine on May 07, 2025 (Danylo Antoniuk/The Kyiv Independent)

The attack on the Ukrainian capital was yet another in a series of devastating attacks on civilians over recent weeks, a damning indictment of the ongoing, U.S.-led effort to bring about an end to Russia's full-scale invasion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It also came ahead of a supposed ceasefire, unilaterally declared by the Kremlin to mark Russia's Victory Day celebrations on May 9.

"Many times, Russians promised something, but they don't keep their word. We dont trust (them)," Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said at the site of the attack as he advised those affected on how to claim compensation for the damage caused.

"Imagine how these people in the damaged apartments feel."

Oleh Borysovych who lives near the site of the attack on Kyiv on May 7 (Danylo Antoniuk/The Kyiv Independent)

The attack also damaged a supermarket, a pharmacy, a Ukrposhta post office, and several cars.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Oleh Borysovych, a resident from a nearby neighborhood, visits the area hit by the drone most days. He often stops here to buy onions and peas from women selling goods in an informal street market near the metro station.

He feels fortunate it was not his building that was struck. "We are the ones standing on the sidelines and watching. Imagine how these people (in the damaged apartments) feel," he told the Kyiv Independent.

Yan Bedrytskyi poses for a portrait as he speaks to The Kyiv Independent journalists in Kyiv, Ukraine on May 7, 2025 (Danylo Antoniuk/The Kyiv Independent)

At the damaged post office, employees clear debris and broken glass. Yan Bedrytskyi, the head of Ukrposhtas real estate management center for Kyiv Oblast, told the Kyiv Independent that postal workers were ensuring the branch would be up and running by tomorrow.

"We cant stop our work  we have to keep serving people, distributing pensions," he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But his optimism about the work of his company is not reflected in his views of Russia and the prospect of peace.

"I dont see anything in this ceasefire. It wont solve anything. Weve already had a ceasefire before  and it ended in war," he said.

Read also: Amid missile shortage, Ukraines air defenses are struggling under Russian ballistic attacks

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Niagara County officials said they did what they could to try to maintain contact and to ensure Janet Lynn Lafler had access to services she may have needed as the victim of a heinous crime in which she was set on fire and nearly burnt to death last year.

They also say Lafler, not unlike cases involving other victims of violent crime, did not always avail herself of all the county had to offer, making it more difficult to help her before a sheriffs deputy found her dead on Jan. 21 in an unheated home in Niagara Falls.

Its a tragic ending to a tragic case, Niagara County Sheriff Michael Filicetti said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lafler suffered third-degree burns over much of her body on Aug. 4 after she was doused in a flammable liquid and set on fire outside a food truck parked near the intersection of Niagara and Seventh streets in the Falls. She was treated at the scene by Falls firefighters and later rushed to Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo for care. Lafler reportedly received treatment for her wounds at ECMC and was later transferred to continue her recovery at Niagara Rehab & Nursing Center on Cedar Avenue in the Falls.

Police have charged Barinder Singh, 38, the then-owner of the Indian Fusion food truck, with a single count of first-degree assault in connection with the incident involving Lafler. Singh is awaiting the assignment of a new defense attorney after rejecting a plea offer from prosecutors in the case. He is currently free from custody on $100,000 bail.

The Niagara Gazette reported last week that Lafler was found dead on Jan. 21 inside an unheated home on the 1000 block of Cleveland Avenue in the Falls. A sheriffs deputy driving in the area was flagged down by a man who reported Lafler was lying on the floor inside the run-down dwelling and wasnt breathing.

Law enforcement sources said its believed that Lafler froze to death. Overnight temperatures were in the single digits on Jan. 21, according to the National Weather Service.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Niagara County District Attorney Brian Seaman said Tuesday that Lafler did attend at least one court date in connection with her case and that she was working with one of the countys victims advocates who served as a liaison between her and the DAs office.

Seaman said he did not believe Laflers death would have an impact on the outcome of the prosecution of the man accused in her case, noting that she was incapacitated and unable to participate in proceedings at the time of the grand jury presentation.

Our case will be able to proceed without her testimony, Seaman said.

Since 1989, the county sheriffs office has overseen a victim assistance program that provides direct services to crime victims through crime victim advocates assigned to serve as liaisons between victims, law enforcement and the district attorneys office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The program makes available to crime victims help with receiving compensation for medical or counseling expenses, assistance with filling out medical care compensation claims and obtaining follow-up services, transportation and accompaniment to police interviews and court proceedings, telephone and in-person crisis counseling and referrals to housing and other resources.

Filicetti said crime victims advocates from his office were in contact with Lafler who also received assistance from the countys adult protective services program. Filicetti said county representatives were in contact with Lafler by phone and in person as they were able in the months following the incident.

Filicetti, who is barred by confidentiality laws from discussing the full details of Laflers case, said that while Lafler was placed in housing with help from county officials, the arrangement did not work out, which made it more difficult for her to remain fully engaged.

From his view, Filicetti said personnel from his department and both the Falls police department and the county, including the district attorneys office, worked very hard to maintain contact with Lafler and to try to provide her with any help she may have needed.

Everybody did the best they could to provide her with services and a safe place to be, but it did not work out that way, he said. When you are a victim, we can extend a helping hand and try to do the best we can but as a victim, you are not required to accept those services.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Justin Hillsmith has been prepping breads and batters at the vegan bakery Shoofly in Southeast Portland. But now, after he and a dozen co-workers say the new owner missed two paychecks, they want to turn it into a worker-owned co-op.

Its silent inside this Portland favorite along Southeast Division and 11th. A letter taped to the door explains the employees walked out of Shoofly last Friday over the missed paychecks.

It was kind of a hard decision to walk off the job and to just, kind of, give up the prospect of future paychecks, Hillsmith told KOIN 6 News.

Justin Hillsmith wants to turn the Shoofly Vegan Bakery in SE Portland into a worker-owned business, May 6, 2025 (KOIN)

But the idea of a co-op is appealing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Beer has staying power: Oregon beer generated nearly $9B in economic output last year

Its not just us that loves Shoofly enough to fight for it, he said. Its everyone we talk to in Portland and it just means a huge amount to them and to us.

But they need to buy it from the current owner, who took over just a few months ago. But, since the employees are currently short on cash, theyve launched a GoFundMe along with hosting bake sales in an effort to garner community backing.

And if they cant buy the business, they plan to start a new one.

Hillsmith said this is about more than baked goods. Its about friendship, family, a safe space for all. Theyre not just fighting for a job, he said. Theyre fighting for each other.

The Shoofly Vegan Bakery is closed at SE Division and 11th, May 6, 2025 (KOIN) Justin Hillsmith (right) and his co-workers want to turn the Shoofly Vegan Bakery in SE Portland into a worker-owned business, May 6, 2025 (KOIN) Justin Hillsmith and his co-workers want to turn the Shoofly Vegan Bakery in SE Portland into a worker-owned business, May 6, 2025 (KOIN) Justin Hillsmith wants to turn the Shoofly Vegan Bakery in SE Portland into a worker-owned business, May 6, 2025 (KOIN) Taste treats at Shoofly Vegan Bakery in Southeast Portland, April 4, 2025 (KOIN)

This is just such an incredible space for, like, queer and LGBTQ people that, like, it feels safe and comfortable here, he said. I love coming to work everyday and talking with my coworkers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

KOIN 6 News contacted the Shoofly owner, who claims that the employees were indeed paid, but that the timing of the payments are what is in question.

My hope, Hillsmith said, is that we get to keep baking together.

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.
Most interviews take place over leisurely meals at fancy restaurants or in hotel lobbies, but were on to our third circuit of Russell Square. Gary Marcus, the Cassandra of artificial intelligence, says walking helps him think  even if it is a freezing morning.

I think the day of reckoning may have come  the signs are there, Marcus says. AI is reaching a point of diminishing results.

Marcus, formerly the head of AI for Uber, has become one of the most compelling commentators on AI, and also one of the most vilified. He is in London to spread an idea that is subversive within tech: the current AI revolution is trumped up and misguided.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Three years ago Marcus, who is a professor emeritus of psychology and neural science at New York University, warned that the industrys strategy was flawed. In a piece published by the science magazine Nautilus, Marcus argued that AI was hitting a wall.

He predicted that devoting more resources, like vast new data centres, would cease to yield impressive results. Artificial intelligence needed a whole new blueprint, he argued.

Diminishing returns

I was arguing that if the scaling of pure LLMs [large language models, the current AI systems] would run out, that some problems like hallucinations [where the bots make up facts] would be very hard to solve, Marcus says.

Then you would expect to have multiple teams competing and reaching a point of diminishing returns, with essentially no competitive moat, and a lot of competition over price.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This view, which he set out just as ChatGPT was sweeping the world, was seen as heresy by the AI true believers. Only a year ago, the British Nobel Prize winner Sir Demis Hassabis, whom Marcus admires greatly, dismissed his concerns.

But the latest large language model, the best-known application of AI today, has been underwhelming.

Instead of refining and enhancing the model, the quality seems to worsen, one ChatGPT user wrote last year. Disappointed with the new models, waste of time, another complained.

OpenAI withdrew its latest model, GPT-4o, after a few days because it was returning misguided, incorrect and downright harmful ideas, reported VentureBeat. It was also too sycophantic, the company acknowledged.

OpenAI, co-founded by Sam Altman, has withdrawn its latest ChatGPT model - SeongJoon Cho/Bloomberg

Real breakthroughs are still possible but the industry needs to rethink how to achieve them, Marcus argues. He wants to anchor the language models in symbolic logic, which was the approach of the first generation of AI, rather than language analysis.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investors are starting to share his concerns. Chinas debut on the world AI stage spooked the market after DeepSeek, a Chinese AI model developed by a largely unknown team, upended the thinking about how AI should work.

It wasnt the best in the field, and it still isnt today. But DeepSeek could be built and run for a fraction of the cost of power-hungry American models. It has even been demonstrated running on a Dell office PC from 1998. It turned out that simple tuning and sensible design yielded huge wins  something anyone could have discovered.

While it seemed obvious after the fact, the debut upended the industry assumption that AI would be dominated by just a handful of companies with the deepest pockets.

The era of diminishing returns envisioned by Marcus has clearly been reached, he believes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

DeepSeek changes the picture dramatically, in good and bad ways: we may have more AI everywhere, with large language models running in your earbud or microwave oven. Think of how spell-checking software is everywhere.

But that also means the business case for capital expenditure on huge computer infrastructure now looks fraught. If its everywhere, and no one is paying, why burn the capital? Nobody selling spell checkers in the Eighties ever bought a Learjet.

The economics just dont make a lot of sense, says Marcus, who is also a popular science writer and an entrepreneur. Too many companies already know that secret formula; nobody holds an advantage any more for more than a month or two.

Theres a real data centre bubble, something that Alibabas chair Joseph Tsai talked about recently. Tsai argued that people are investing ahead of demand that theyre seeing today. He also claimed that data centres are being built on spec without binding agreements from big tenants like Google and Microsoft.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Microsoft is now reportedly pulling out of data centre contracts, the analyst firm TD Cowen has reported.

The elephant in the room is reliability. While generative AI excels at novelty  old movies cast with the characters you choose, for example  it still struggles with solid work, such as planning, reasoning and general purpose of abstraction.

What it does well is mimicry, Marcus explains.

He terms the current crop of AI BSI, or broad shallow intelligence. He told an audience the night before we met at the London School of Economics that he chose the B and the S for a reason. It can BS its way through a chess game, he says, jokingly.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Automation must be reliable if it is to boost productivity and then, even more hopefully, GDP growth. The Government commissioned a report estimating that 45bn of annual savings could accrue to the UK from AI  but that didnt explain how. If Marcus is only half right, they may well be disappointed.

Still, today coders are happily using AI to generate their work, undergraduates are using it to write essays and depressed teenage boys are getting therapy from these bots. Surely if costs fall, as DeepSeek has demonstrated, all that wont go away?

Long term, I am somewhat optimistic; I think a much better AI could be built than we have now, Marcus says. In the short term, I think we are already starting to see a correction.

The current technology just isnt that reliable; LLMs wont disappear, but they arent magic and they arent trustworthy, which really limits their applications.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Marcus made a bet with the AI researcher Miles Brundage at the end of last year. The pair drew up a list of 10 tasks that AI should be able to perform by the end of 2027. For example, it should be able to watch a completely new mainstream movie, follow plot twists, and accurately describe characters conflicts and motivations. Or write good legal briefs free of errors.

The logical reasoning required for these sorts of tasks is beyond the AI of today. Marcus, as youd expect, bet that computers wouldnt be able to achieve the checklist of tasks.

The end game here is not that large language models will vanish, Marcus predicts, but that they will be virtually free. And eventually we will have much better technology and laugh at how absurd it was that people took them so seriously.

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.
From left, Sioux Falls Rotarian Ryan Martin, Tyler Tordsen of the Sioux Metro Growth Alliance, Bob Mundt of the Sioux Falls Development Foundation, Jodi Schwan of SiouxFalls.Business and Ron Nelson of Nelson Commercial Real Estate speak at a Rotary Club luncheon at the Military Heritage Alliance on May 5, 2025, in Sioux Falls. (John Hult/South Dakota Searchlight)

SIOUX FALLS  The term of art is insolated, but not isolated.

Thats how Bob Mundt of the Sioux Falls Development Foundation describes his metro areas position as it faces the unpredictable economic conditions driven by the tariffs imposed  and frequently un-imposed or adjusted from day to day  by President Donald Trump.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump has downplayed the impact of tariffs as speed bumps on the way to a stronger manufacturing sector. While rejecting claims that tariffs will hurt the economy as a whole during an interview with NBCs Meet the Press over the weekend, he did nod to economist consensus by saying that some goods, which he said Americans could go without, could cost more as a result.

The Sioux Falls metro area, Mundt said, has weathered economic storms in the past thanks to South Dakotas conservative nature. During a panel discussion at the Sioux Falls Rotary Club this week, Mundt said the markets twists and turns have spurred trepidation, but not panic.

We tend to react very well to challenges, whether thats tariffs or pandemics or anything else like that, Mundt told the Rotarians whod gathered at the Military Heritage Alliance.

About a quarter of South Dakotas residents live in the Sioux Falls metro area, located in the lower portion of the states southeast quadrant, which is one of the most rapidly growing areas in the U.S.

Tyler Tordsen, head of the Sioux Metro Growth Alliance, also sounded a hopeful note on the regions economic fortunes. He pointed to cities like Brandon, just east of Sioux Falls, as proof that expansion has not ceased in light of the topsy turvy economic signals.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Theres a lot of dirt thats moving in that city, Tordsen said before rattling off a handful of building projects.

I am hearing hesitation, a little bit, but really nothing thats stopping any projects from moving forward, Tordsen said.

On the retail level, new entrepreneurs are still looking for opportunities to expand, Tordsen said. He also said that pre-Trump challenges like workforce development, exacerbated by a dearth of child care options and affordable housing, remain. The unemployment rate in the metro area is 1.8%.

The regions history has shown that those challenges arent dealbreakers either, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I remember questions of there will be 1,000 jobs at Amazon, how are they ever going to fill those? and they did, Tordsen said, referencing a distribution center opened in 2022.

An Amazon spokesperson told South Dakota Searchlight that it took around seven months to hire a full staff at the center.

On workforce, Mundt pointed to former Gov. Kristi Noems $9 million Freedom Works Here campaign as a net positive for the area, whether you loved it or hated it. Mundts organization reached out to about 10,000 of the 11,641 people who filled out a form expressing interest in relocating to South Dakota for work.

Mundt said the foundation pointed potential workers to job openings, but didnt track what happened afterward due to privacy concerns. He cant say for certain how many people moved to Sioux Falls for work, but said spikes in attention can help address the areas skilled labor needs.

Right now, its becoming a situation where we need people with specific skill sets, Mundt said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dawn Dovre of the South Dakota Department of Labor told South Dakota Searchlight that 4,047 of the people whod filled out those forms were later connected with job advisers who offered personalized support, helping with job opportunities, relocation resources, and housing information.

The state doesnt have a firm number of relocations, either. But listings on the SDWORKS jobs website have dropped from 25,000 at the start of the campaign to 18,000 today, Dovre said, reflecting increased workforce engagement and strong results from the campaigns reach.

Jodi Schwan is the owner of the marketing firm Align Content Studios and operator of the website SiouxFalls.Business. She told the Rotary crowd the city needs to tell its story as a place that can serve as a home base for industries like financial technology, biotech and agribusiness.

Low-value manufacturing is not coming back to this country, no matter what is said out there, Schwan said. High-value manufacturing is where the future is. We need to be a location of choice for that.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
NEW YORK  The estranged sister of Harvey Weinstein accuser Kaja Sokola told jurors her sibling appeared extremely tense after a 2006 post-lunch meeting with the movie mogul in a Tribeca hotel room  but nothing about the encounter led her to think Weinstein sexually assaulted her.

Ewa Sokola added that she didnt even know her sister had accused Weinstein until she read about it in a 2022 Rolling Stone article, she told jurors at his Manhattan Supreme Court sexual assault retrial.

I was shocked, she said of the article. Prior to that, she said, (Kaja Sokola) was proud of knowing him. Thats why she invited me for this meeting in May 2006.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kaja Sokola is expected to testify later at trial that the Miramax Films boss sexually assaulted her in a Tribeca Grand Hotel room in May 2006 after he led her away from the table during lunch with her and her sister.

Ewa Sokola testified that when her sister, then a 19-year-old model, returned from Weinsteins room, her tension seemed like somebody waiting for the result of an exam  like waiting for the Oscar nominations when youre not sure what the outcome was going to be, rather than someone whod just been assaulted.

It was a little bit of thrill and little bit of dread, she said during direct testimony.

The retrial, which has entered its third week of testimony, will mark the first time Kaja Sokolas allegations have aired in an open court proceeding.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kaja Sokola, a Polish model with dreams of becoming an actress, said in a civil lawsuit that Weinstein first sexually abused her inside his Soho apartment in September 2002, when she was just 16 years old. The criminal charges against him relate not to that incident, but to the alleged May 2006 assault.

Prosecutors subpoenaed Ewa Sokola, who had a falling out with her sister last year, to get her to testify Wednesday.

She said she met her sister and Weinstein for about an hour, and she offered the Hollywood heavyweight some advice about his health.

He seemed a little bit overweight to me. I was a freshly baked cardiologist, Ewa Sokola siad. I think he was cool with it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Weinstein needed emergency heart surgery last year.

Kaja Sokola left the table with Weinstein for between a half-hour and an hour, and when she returned, Ewa noticed the extreme tension, she said.

She made that same observation in earlier grand jury testimony, but prosecutors didnt ask her then to elaborate further on what she meant.

Did she tell you when she came down that she had been forcibly sexually assaulted by Mr. Weinstein? Cibella asked, and she responded, No.

If you had observed something  you would have pushed further? Cibella asked, getting the response, Of course.

Assistant D.A. Shannon Lucey tried to dig deeper after the cross-examination, pressing Ewa Sokola on whether her sister said anything at all as they left the hotel, and highlighting her earlier grand jury testimony that her sister would not say a word, what happened, or how did it go.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last week featured days of emotional testimony from Miriam Haley, a former TV production assistant who accused Weinstein of sexually assaulting her in his Soho loft on July 10, 2006.

Haley also testified at Weinsteins 2020 trial, which ended with a jury finding him guilty of rape for an attack on aspiring actress Jessica Mann at the DoubleTree hotel in 2013, and criminal sex act based off Haleys allegations. He was sentenced to 23 years in prison.

The states highest court overturned that conviction in April 2024 in a 4-3 ruling that the trial court judge, James Burke, shouldnt have allowed testimony of uncharged, alleged prior sexual acts against persons other than the complainants of the underlying crimes,

Weinsteins retrial covers allegations by Haley and Mann, as well the new allegations by Sokola.

_____
Pakistani soldiers cordon off a road following Indian missile strikes in Bahawalpur district, Punjab province, eastern Pakistan on May 7, 2025. At least 26 people were killed and 46 others injured after India carried out strikes on six civilian settlements in Pakistan, Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations, the media wing of the Pakistani army, confirmed during a press briefing on Wednesday. (Photo by Mansoor Abbas/Xinhua)

ISLAMABAD, May 7 (Xinhua) -- At least 26 people were killed and 46 others injured after India carried out strikes on six civilian settlements in Pakistan, Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations, the media wing of the Pakistani army, confirmed during a press briefing on Wednesday. 

Locals gather in outdoor areas following Indian missile strikes in Bahawalpur district, Punjab province, eastern Pakistan on May 7, 2025.

At least 26 people were killed and 46 others injured after India carried out strikes on six civilian settlements in Pakistan, Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations, the media wing of the Pakistani army, confirmed during a press briefing on Wednesday. (Photo by Mansoor Abbas/Xinhua)

People gather outside a hospital following Indian missile strikes in Bahawalpur district, Punjab province, eastern Pakistan on May 7, 2025.

At least 26 people were killed and 46 others injured after India carried out strikes on six civilian settlements in Pakistan, Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations, the media wing of the Pakistani army, confirmed during a press briefing on Wednesday. (Photo by Mansoor Abbas/Xinhua)

People gather outside a hospital following Indian missile strikes in Bahawalpur district, Punjab province, eastern Pakistan on May 7, 2025.

At least 26 people were killed and 46 others injured after India carried out strikes on six civilian settlements in Pakistan, Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations, the media wing of the Pakistani army, confirmed during a press briefing on Wednesday. (Photo by Mansoor Abbas/Xinhua)
PLATTSBURGH  Critical funding for daily air service out of Plattsburgh International Airport, and four other North Country airports, is on the federal chopping block.

Trumps half-baked plan to cut the vital Essential Air Service program will hit the North Country first and hardest, U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer said.

All five of the North Countrys airports rely on the federal EAS program, and without it many would lose these vital flights, hurting residents, businesses, universities and hampering tourism, as well.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Schumer was referring to the federal program that subsidizes mostly rural underserved areas and allows airlines to operate and provide daily regional service for travelers.

LOCAL EAS FUNDING

The airport in the Town of Plattsburgh has benefitted greatly from EAS funding since it opened on the flight line of the former Plattsburgh Air Force Base in 2007.

Current funding allows for daily flights to Washington, D.C. where travelers can connect to points elsewhere.

Previously, EAS funding helped provide service to Boston and Philadelphia.

Schumer said that in President Donald Trumps budget proposal released last week, funding for the EAS program would be cut by, a whopping 50%, which would devastate residents, universities and businesses who rely on air service.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

EAS also supports airports in Ogdensburg, Saranac Lake and Massena, all of which are in the 21st Congressional District of New York, which is represented by Elise Stefanik (R-Schuylerville).

Ive long fought to protect and boost the Essential Air Service program because I know how important it is for our rural communities like the North Country to get access to these flights to boost the local economy and connect area residents and businesses with national and international travel options, Schumer said.

Without this program, thousands of North Country residents would be left stranded having to travel hundreds of miles to get air service.

Schumer said New York House Republicans need to to stand up and be vocal in their opposition to the cuts in Trumps budget and protect the program for the North Country economy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thats why Im calling on New York House Republicans, including Congresswomen Stefanik and (Claudia) Tenney, whose districts would be impacted more than nearly anywhere else in the country, to stand up against Trumps budget plan and beat back this very unwise cut, Schumer said.

We cannot let these callous cuts clear the runway and blow a crater in North Country airports budgets.

LOCAL AIRPORTS

Schumer explained that all five of the airports in New York that rely on EAS are in the North Country and help support flights critically important to the local economy, including:

 Ogdensburg International Airport: round trip flights to Washingtons Dulles International Airport

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 Massena International Airport: round trip flights to Boston-Logan International Airport

 Plattsburgh International Airport: round trip flights to Philadelphia International Airport

 Adirondack Regional Airport: round trip flights to Boston-Logan International Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport

 Watertown International Airport: round trip flights to Philadelphia International Airport

In Trumps budget proposal, he calls to slash the EAS program by over $300 million next year, 50% of the programs budget, gutting support for airports in the North Country.

OFFICIALS SPEAK OUT

News of the proposed funding cuts drew concern among Clinton County leaders.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Essential Air Service program has long played an important role in supporting reliable air travel options for our regions residents and businesses. While we recognize the importance of fiscal responsibility, the proposed changes, as highlighted by the Senator, could significantly affect the accessibility and connectivity that are critical to the North Countrys economic growth and quality of life, a statement from Clinton County Legislature Chairman Mark Henry (R-Area 3, Chazy) said.

We hope to work with our federal partners to find a balanced approach that continues to meet the critical transportation needs of our rural communities.

Town of Plattsburgh Supervisor Michael Cashman said Essential Air Service is vital for keeping communities like Plattsburgh connected to jobs, healthcare, education, and tourism.

Without them rural regions face the risk of isolation and economic decline, Cashman said.

Keeping EAS fully funded should have bipartisan support.
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  Salt Lake City officials are proposing to consolidate as many as 27 zoning districts into six, a change that would directly affect more than 6,000 properties. Tonight, the Salt Lake City Council will hear public comment and consider adopting the ordinance to consolidate these zoning districts.

The existing zones are slated for different uses, such as commercial, residential, transit, or mixed-use. The proposed consolidation would create six new mixed-use zones in an effort to improve consistency across the areas and make it easier for mixed-use development moving forward.

ABC4 sat down with Krissy Gilmore, a planning manager with Salt Lake Citys planning division, to discuss why this is happening and how this will impact residents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Watch out for too good to be true freelancer scams, Better Business Bureau warns

This is primarily to  well, one is to reduce the size and complexity of our zoning code. This will eliminate hundreds of pages of our ordinance, which will make it easier for planning staff to navigate, but also for the public, Gilmore explained.

This zoning change came at the direction of SLC Mayor Erin Mendenhall, Gilmore said. The goal is to accommodate a growing city and create more opportunities to build housing during what Gilmore called a housing crisis.

The second reason is to create new mixed-use zoning areas. Were hoping this increases walkability, access to amenities for each neighborhood in Salt Lake, Gilmore said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The new zoning would change requirements to building heights, setbacks, lot coverage, and permitted land uses for thousands of properties across the city.

Utah continues reign as best state in nation, report says

These zones are located all across the city, but do not include residential or downtown zones, Gilmore clarified. For residents located in these zones, Gilmore says that they shouldnt worry too much about upcoming changes.

One of our key goals for this proposal was really to not create that big of an impact, Gilmore said. We attempted to maintain the same development potential as already is allowed. So if a zone has a 30-foot height limit, the new zone will maintain that limit, for example.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the document about the zoning shared with the Salt Lake City Council, the planning division is operating under guiding principles while consolidating these zones. Among these guidelines are minimizing the reduction of existing property rights and grouping buildings based on scale.

The planning division has also been hard at work to keep the public informed and involved throughout the process, according to Gilmore.

Utah teacher now allowed to post prayer chain in faculty lounge after threat of lawsuit

Weve sent out four notices, and weve also held eight walking tours we also held two open houses, the planning commission held two public hearings, and now the city council has a public hearing tonight. There have been many opportunities to engage and meet with us for questions, Gilmore said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Tuesday, May 6, city council members will hear public comments on the new zoning proposal. Council members will then schedule a time to vote on the proposal. You can join at 7 p.m. in person or online. Information on participating can be found here.

We have a pressing need for more housing. More accessible, walkable housing developments, Gilmore concluded.

For more information and to view a zoning map, visit the citys website on the proposal here.

Latest headlines:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
SARANAC LAKE  Saranac Lake High School banned cellphones before it was cool.

The still-yet-to-be-approved state budget includes a bell-to-bell ban on smartphones in schools across the state, but SLHS has already been doing this since the start of the 2023 school year.

At graduation last June, SLHS Principal Josh Dann said he felt the policy went over well, after a challenging start. The policys been controversial among the students it affects and some of their parents, and its certainly gone through some growing pains, Dann said. But administrators and even some students say its for the best and has improved school. At the very least, Dann said its made the hallways louder.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

RIP THE BAND-AID OFF

Previously, school policy was that students could have phones in non-academic areas  hallways, study halls, the cafeteria. But while discussing this in a faculty meeting one day, Dann said they realized students were still on their phones around a third of the day.

They decided to just rip the Band-Aid off and blanket-ban phone use during school.

We felt the cellphones were getting in the way of them being successful in school, Dann said.

Listening to music, watching movies or keeping a Snapchat streak alive are all appropriate, if the work is done, Dann said. But he found phones led to procrastination.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

SLHS bans phone usage from the time students arrive until dismissal. Students usually keep the phones in their pockets or bags  Dann said students dont use seem to use lockers much after the coronavirus pandemic. Things are a bit easier for SLHS  the building barely has any cell phone service anyway. The WiFi password is changed regularly to avoid it being figured out and disseminated.

I GOT USED TO IT

The change was toughest on the seniors last year, who had gone nearly their whole school years with some use of their phones. Danns daughter was one of them. He said they all thought the policy was crazy.

Elijah Schenk, who graduated last year, said though the cellphone ban didnt feel great at first, he felt it was a good choice.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It made paying attention much easier, not worrying about who posted this or who texted me, Schenk said. Yes, it makes people upset, but the people in question are mostly high school kids who have what is considered an addiction, maybe even a dependency, to their phone. Not to sound like an old man but staring at a phone for long periods of time really does rot your brain, as I experience it if I use my phone extensively.

It was difficult coming out of the pandemic, when phone restrictions were very loose, he said, but after a while I got used to it like any other policy or rule.

It even felt nice to just ignore my phone and choose other alternatives, he said.

Dann said they faced only a little pushback from parents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They know were not doing this to be jerks, he said. We just feel its a healthy tactic for a school.

ALL OF THE KIDS WERE SO MAD

The pushback they did get was from parents worried about what would happen in an emergency, if theyd be able to contact their child. Dann said they talked with local and state police about this and they said students need to be focused and present in an emergency.

They said students shouldnt be communicating with parents anyways during emergencies, Dann said. They should be listening to school authorities and listening for good directions.

And the students?

They hate it, Dann said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Current SLHS Junior Gabby Mitchell said the cell phone ban has been difficult.

Having little breaks to play my games, I had to get used to not having that, she said.

She misses these mental breaks, especially during lunch. This has been the schoolwide sentiment since the ban started two years ago, she said.

Oh, I was so mad, Mitchell said. All of the kids were so mad.

A WHOLE BATTLE

The rule has strict enforcement, which Dann said takes vigilance from teachers. There are loopholes theyre trying to close. Theyve stopped giving warnings. If they see phones or headphones out, they confiscate them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They see your phone for just a split-second and they take it, Mitchell said. If you figure out the WiFi password, they take your phone right away.

Junior Lilly Latham said one time her phone slid out of her pocket, so she looked at the time before she pushed it back in. But a teacher saw that and eventually she was threatened with suspension if she didnt give up her phone.

It was a whole fight, it was horrible, she said.

Latham said she feels for the students in the rest of the state who will be joining Saranac Lakers in the school phone ban.

I feel bad for them, she said.

Honestly, I would just listen, because its not worth the consequences, Latham added. Even though you have an opinion, you think its stupid, just try to listen because its just better in the end.  You wont win unless you have some serious people backing you up.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In middle school, Latham successfully petitioned the school board to allow hats in the dress code. It took a lot of work, she said.

CHECK YOURSELF

Dann said students know if he believes something is best for them, hes not going to waver. He wondered if maybe theyll admit it was beneficial after they graduate.

Its with good intentions, he said, not to make life miserable.

He said phones are useful tools, but also a distraction. Hes hoping to create practices that last after graduation and matter in college and in the workforce. The goal is to encourage in-person socialization, improve focus and for students to be present in the moment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Even for me, personally. I have to check myself, my cellphone usage, Dann said.

If a students phone vibrates with a notification, theres an impulse to attend to it. Dann sees a lot of anxiety about responding and reacting immediately.

Theres a lot of maintenance that theyre putting on themselves to uphold all this, he said of social media.

LIFE OUTSIDE OF A SCREEN

Before the ban, Dann said hallways during class transitions were quiet and most peoples heads were down.

It seemed like there was no noise going on, and all of it was because of the cellphones, he said.

After the policy took place, the change was immediate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This place was so loud. The senior lounge was loud, the hallways were loud, Dann said. It took some getting used to, because we were so used to it being quiet. Now that they couldnt use their phones, they were actually communicating with each other and having conversations.

For New York students who will be new to this policy, Schenk had some advice.

Take advantage of that policy and experience life outside of a screen, he said. Experience and education is valuable, no matter how boring it seems.

NO HALF-MEASURES

Dann had a recommendation for other schools joining the phone ban  dont do half-measures.

Whats interesting about high school is that any change thats made, within three years, it just becomes an expectation, he said.

Current SLHS Junior Paxton Leerkes said he doesnt use his phone a lot, but he feels they should be able to have them for emergencies. He remembers when the ban started that everyone was mad. He said not having the phone helps with his focus, but he also wants it for its calculator. However, he understands the rule.

Just have school before phones, Leerkes said.

Around a dozen states have some sort of ban or restriction on cellphones in schools.

Weve protected our kids before from cigarettes, alcohol, and drunk driving, and now were protecting them from addictive technology designed to hijack their attention, Gov. Kathy Hochul said in an announcement of the plan.

Schools will have some flexibility in how they implement the ban, and the law includes exemptions for students who might need phones for medical reasons, learning disabilities or if they dont speak fluent English.

When SLHS students came back to school after Spring Break this week, Dann noticed there was a period of more discipline for phone usage as students adjusted to not being able to use them all the time.

Its an addiction, he said.
(Reuters) - Slovakia and Hungary on Wednesday condemned European Commission plans to phase out Russian gas and other energy imports, deepening a rift with Brussels over relations with Moscow.

The EU executive had said on Tuesday it would propose legal measures next month to phase out EU imports of Russian gas and liquefied natural gas by the end of 2027.

The plans also touch on oil and include trade measures targeting Russian enriched uranium for nuclear power that would amount to a tax or levy on imports.

The move is part of the EU's pledge to end its decades-old energy relations with former top gas supplier Russia after its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico said he respected attempts to reduce energy dependence on third countries but the Commission's proposals would harm the EU, raising prices in the bloc and damaging its competitiveness.

"This is simply economic suicide to go to the point where neither gas, nor nuclear, nor oil, everything must end just because some new Iron Curtain is being built between the Western world and perhaps Russia and other countries," Fico said.

Slovakia would work for changes in the legislative process, he said.

Slovak gas importer SPP said in a statement that the measures could "have a significantly negative impact on the competitiveness of the business sector of the European Union."

Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto also said on Wednesday that the EU's plan on Russian energy was "unacceptable" and that Budapest would "take the strongest possible steps" against the scheme, without giving details.

"We will fight and challenge this decision," Szijjarto said.

The Commission's legal proposals due in June will require approval from the European Parliament and a qualified majority of member states - meaning one or two countries cannot block the plans.

Slovakia and Hungary receive Russian gas and oil supplies and have argued with Ukraine over its decision at the end of last year to halt gas flows from the east through its territory.

Around 19% of Europe's gas still comes from Russia via the TurkStream pipeline and LNG shipments, down from roughly 45% before 2022.

Slovakia's ministry says 10 of the bloc's 27 members imported Russian gas last year.

The EU has imposed sanctions on most Russian oil imports but not on gas due to opposition from Slovakia and Hungary, which receive Russian pipeline supplies and maintain closer ties with Moscow.

(Reporting by Jason Hovet in Prague and Anita Komuves in Budapest. Additional reporting by Alan Charlish. Editing by Bernadette Baum and Mark Potter)
BRATISLAVA, Slovakia (AP)  Slovakias populist leader on Wednesday blasted a European Union plan to halt imports of Russian natural gas by the end of 2027 to deprive President Vladimir Putin of revenue that helps fuel the war in Ukraine.

The European Commission, the bloc's executive branch, will present a detailed plan next month. It will seek to ban new gas contracts with Russia by the end of this year and phase out existing ones still in use in the 27-nation EU by the end of 2027.

Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico said the plan is absolutely unacceptable for his country and that his government was ready to veto it. He said the move would be harmful for Slovakia and the entire EU, because the price of gas will increase as a result.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Slovakia has a gas delivery deal with Russia that expires in 2034, and Fico said that he would seek compensations for damages, if the plan proceeds.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who is pressing ahead with the plan, told EU lawmakers that Russia has proven time and again that it is not a reliable energy supplier.

Dependency on Russia is not only bad for our security, but also for our economy. Our energy prices cannot be dictated by a hostile neighbor, she told members of the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France.

Fico also rejected a proposal to halt imports of oil and nuclear fuel from Russia to the European Union.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hungary and Slovakia  whose leaders are considered to be Putins closest allies in Europe  have blocked EU military assistance to Ukraine and have been expected to oppose the European Commissions gas plans.

Fico, a divisive figure at home and abroad, returned to power in 2003 after his leftist Smer (Direction) party won a parliamentary election on a pro-Russia and anti-American platform. Known for his pro-Russia views, he has openly challenged the EUs policies over Ukraine.

He is set to become the only EU leader to travel to Moscow for festivities on Friday marking the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. It will be his second trip to Moscow since December.

His government has faced vocal protests against its pro-Russian stance and other policies.
DENVER (KDVR)  The slow, steady rain that fell Tuesday caused some street flooding in southwest Denver.

A couple of small business owners said it also caused a huge setback for them.

View the latest Weather Alerts in Denver and across Colorado on FOX31

Most of the rain that fell in Denver did not seem threatening, but on Santa Fe Avenue near Mississippi, there was a real problem. A clogged storm drain caused street flooding in front of a small auto repair shop, Jit Werks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The owners say they believe part of the problem was their parking lots drainage system backed up since it could not drain to the streets backed-up drain. That, they said, created a small lake of water in front of their business that just kept rising.

It was like a little tsunami. Theres about six inches of water and there semis and stuff coming by, Jit Werks co-owner Sebastian Barrett said.

Fast-moving traffic on Santa Fe drove through the standing water, causing waves to head for their shop and flooding the interior. Barrett told FOX31 he and his co-owner called the city for help unclogging the drain.

Denver Department of Transportation and Infrastructure crews came by and unclogged the drain. Barrett says he saw those crews digging out and large red cloth-type sandbags.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If anyone believes that the City & County of Denver or any of its employees injured them or damaged their property, they can file a claim, a Denver Department of Transportation and Infrastructure spokesperson said.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife looking for invasive mussels in Colorado River

FOX31 cameras captured debris being pulled out from the drain. There was flooding inside the shop, which the owners say they had been working on.

I was in shock because we just invested a lot of time. Blood, sweat and money trying to hear this business open, co-owner Brandon Curry said.

It took crews on at least three trucks and men working on both sides of the street to solve the problem. The Jit Werks Co Owners say they are hoping to make the repairs as soon as possible and be up and running by the beginning of June.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
(NewsNation)  The first major talks between the United States and China since the start of the trade war is set to begin this weekend in Switzerland.

Small businesses in America, however, are already sounding the alarm on tariffs, saying the costs could be catastrophic. They say pressure is mounting to increase prices and manage supply distributions.

Beth Benike, the owner of Busy Baby, joined NewsNation Live recently to talk about the impact tariffs have had on her business. She said she had to store her businesss latest shipment because it was not affordable, and she would have to rely on her existing inventory instead.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chinese companies eye moves to US amid sky-high tariffs

Others say the tariffs are a financial gut punch with bigger bills for imported parts, goods and their materials. Unlike big box stores, small businesses dont always have a cushion to soften the financial blow, and have to make tough choices like delaying hiring, or even closing their doors for good according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Some businesses are trying to shift to source their goods locally or trying to work with countries that have lower tariffs to offset the costs. Others are slowing their growth and even taking out emergency loans.

Elad Inbar, the owner of Robot Lab, imports most of his businesss materials from China. He says they are moving to find workarounds from the tariffs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sen. Fetterman calls report on his mental health a hit piece

Were working with manufacturers from all around the world, like Korea, Singapore, Japan and France, and in the U.S. as well, Inbar said.

The White House says there likely wont be any tariff relief, but small businesses could get some relief from costs in the form of tax cuts. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has continued to push for tariff exemptions for small businesses.

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 small group of members of the European Parliament, including two members of the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance, a pro-Russian far-left party in Germany, will be among the guests at the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow. [Victory Day is a Russian holiday commemorating the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in 1945, celebrated on 9 May  ed.]

Source: German news magazine Spiegel, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Ruth Firmenich and Michael von der Schulenburg, two MEPs who are associates of Wagenknecht, have announced that they will be attending the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow and will be accompanied by three other MEPs from Czechia, Slovakia and Cyprus.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While in Moscow, they intend to meet with members of the Russian parliament and other representatives of the political and cultural spheres.

They said they are motivated by a desire "to overcome the downward spiral of confrontation and escalation in Europe".

Firmenich and von der Schulenburg said they plan to travel to Kyiv afterwards and have been in contact with the Ukrainian embassy regarding this.

Ruth Firmenich is described as a close associate of Sahra Wagenknecht, having worked with her since 2004.

When asked about her party members' trip to Moscow, Wagenknecht said she saw nothing controversial about it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Quote from Wagenknecht: "They are going to Moscow to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier for the 80th anniversary of liberation. I dont know what there is to criticise about that. They will not be taking part in the military parade or any similar state events."

Background:

In February, Wagenknecht refused to answer a question about whether she was glad that Ukraine still existed as a state despite three years of full-scale war and numerous losses.

She has also stated that German industry  and the European economy in general  "has no chance" without cheap energy resources from Russia.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
SMITH COUNTY, Texas (KETK)  A Smith County lieutenant was honored on Tuesday for her commitment to the department and striving to make a difference in her community.

DPS offers $6k for information in 2013 cold case murder in Hallsville

Aimee Crockett received the 2024 Making a Difference Award from the Texas Association of Counties. Crockett received the award for her leadership as she has overseen the field training officer program since joining Smith County in January 2023.

Courtesy of Smith County PD

I am so proud of our agency and the officers who work there, she said. Im very, very grateful for this award and my relationship with the Texas Association of Counties, Crockett said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

More than 19,000 without power in East Texas counties during severe weather

During her time with Smith County, Crockett has been an instrumental part of making the new detention officer program a success. The program received the 2024 Best Practices Award from the TAC following years of struggling with recruiting and retention of staff.

Lt. Crockett has over 30 years of experience in the field of corrections and has been a great asset to the Sheriffs Office, Chief Deputy Gary Pinkerton 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 KETK.com | FOX51.com.
HANOI, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has reaffirmed the country's commitment to achieving an economic growth rate of 8 percent or higher this year, despite mounting challenges, including the impact of U.S. tariff policies, Vietnam News Agency reported Tuesday.

Speaking at the government's monthly meeting on Tuesday, the prime minister acknowledged that some export sectors, such as textiles and wooden furniture, have been adversely affected by the U.S. tariffs, while domestic consumer demand is recovering slowly.

Although meeting the growth target is challenging, he emphasized that this period presents an opportunity to restructure the economy, diversify markets and expand the range of export products.

The leader stressed that negotiations with the U.S. will be conducted with the goal of protecting Vietnam's legitimate rights and interests, fostering balanced and sustainable trade and ensuring compliance with all international agreements to which Vietnam is a party. 
Wildfires driven by climate change contribute to as many as thousands of annual deaths and billions of dollars in economic costs from wildfire smoke in the United States, according to a new study.

The paper, published Friday in the journal Nature Communications Earth & Environment, found that from 2006 to 2020, climate change contributed to about 15,000 deaths from exposure to small particulate matter from wildfires and cost about $160 billion. The annual range of deaths was 130 to 5,100, the study showed, with the highest in states such as Oregon and California.

Were seeing a lot more of these wildfire smoke events, said Nicholas Nassikas, a study author and a physician and professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School. So he and multidisciplinary team of researchers wanted to know: "What does it really mean in a changing environment for things like mortality, which is kind of the worst possible health outcome?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lisa Thompson, a professor at Emory University who studies air pollution and climate change and was not involved in the paper, said it is one of the first studies she has seen to isolate the effect of climate change on mortality. Looking at the impacts across time and space also made it unique, she said.

The paper's researchers focused on deaths linked to exposure to fine particulate matter, or PM2.5  the main concern from wildfire smoke.

These particles can lodge deep into lungs and trigger coughing and itchy eyes with short-term exposure. But longer term they can make existing health problems worse and lead to a range of chronic and deadly health issues. Children, pregnant people, the elderly and outdoor workers are among the most vulnerable. The Health Effects Institute estimated the pollutant caused 4 million deaths worldwide.

Evidence is emerging that PM2.5 from wildfire smoke is more toxic than other pollution sources. When wildfires encroach into cities, burning cars and other toxics-containing materials, it adds to the danger.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Numerous studies have tied human-caused climate change  caused by the burning of coal, oil and gas  to a growth in fires in North America. Global warming is increasing drought, especially in the West, and other extreme weather. Drier conditions suck moisture from plants, which act as fuel for fires. When drier vegetation and seasons are mixed with hotter temperatures, that increases the frequency, extent and severity of wildfires and the smoke they spew.

Findings dismaying but not surprising, scholar says

Jacob Bendix, professor emeritus of geography and environment at Syracuse University, said he was dismayed by the findings but not surprised.

(T) hese numbers are really significant. I think theres a tendency for people outside of the areas actually burning to see increasing fires as a distant inconvenience  This study drives home how far-reaching the impacts are, said Bendix in an email. He wasn't involved in the study.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The studys authors drew on modeled and existing data to reach their findings. First, they sought to understand how much area burned by wildfires was attributable to climate change. They did that by analyzing the real climate conditions  heat and rain, for instance  when wildfires erupted from 2006 to 2020, and compared that to a scenario where weather measurements would be different without climate change.

From there, they estimated the levels of PM2.5 from wildfire smoke tied to climate change using the same approach. Lastly, integrating the current understanding of how particulate matter affects mortality based on published research, they quantified the number of deaths related to PM2.5 from wildfires and calculated their economic impact.

This framework showed that of 164,000 deaths related to wildfire-PM2.5 exposure from 2006 to 2020, 10% were attributable to climate change. The mortalities were 30% to 50% higher in some western states and counties.

Questions about the study's conclusions

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Marshall Burke, global environmental policy professor at Stanford University, said the evidence linking climate change to burned areas was rock solid, but the subsequent steps were harder.

Linking burned area to smoke is trickier because you never know exactly which way the winds going to blow, he said, and he wondered how the death estimates compared to fatalities tied to general air pollution.

Still, their approach was sensible and reasonable, Burke said.

Johns Hopkins University lecturer in climate and energy policy Patrick Brown said he had some concerns about the study. One was conceptual. The study acknowledges the power non-climate drivers have on wildfires, but it doesn't give them proper weight, he said in an email.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Brown, who was not involved in the study, worries decision-makers could wrongly conclude that mitigating planet-warming carbon emissions is the only solution. Yet in many regions, the more immediate lifesaving action may be fuel breaks, prescribed burns, ignitionsource regulation, public health efforts, etc., he said.

Land management practices such as prescribed burns can reduce wildfire fuel, Nassikas said. But ultimately, the study notes, the problem of deaths from wildfire smoke will only get worse without the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

Part of the study is raising awareness," he said. And then once we kind of understand that  now what are the interventions that we can deploy at a personal level, at a community level, and then obviously at a larger level across the country and across the world?



The Associated Press receives support from the Walton Family Foundation for coverage of water and environmental policy. The AP is solely responsible for all content. For all of APs environmental coverage, visit apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment.
Smokey Robinson was accused of sexual assault by four former employees on Tuesday, May 6

He briefly addressed the allegations, saying he is "appalled" by the lawsuit, but "can't speak about this right now"

The plaintiffs are seeking $50 million

Smokey Robinson is speaking out after he was accused in a civil lawsuit of sexual assault by four former employees.

In a phone call with the Daily Mail on Wednesday, May 7, the Motown star, 85, briefly addressed the allegations put forth against him in a complaint filed in Los Angeles on Tuesday, May 6.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I am appalled," Robinson said, adding, "I can't speak about this right now."

An attorney for the star did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment.

The former Miracles frontman was accused of sexual battery, assault, false imprisonment, gender violence and creating a hostile work environment by four Jane Does who worked for the star and his wife Frances over a period of nearly 20 years.

Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Smokey Robinson and Frances Glandney attend the 65th GRAMMY Awards on February 05, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. Smokey Robinson and Frances Glandney attend the 65th GRAMMY Awards on February 05, 2023 in Los Angeles, California.

Related: Smokey Robinson Accused of Alleged Rape, Sexual Assault in New Lawsuit Filed by Four Women

The complaint claimed Robinson repeatedly forced his fingers and penis into their vaginas, causing severe and excruciating pain without consent, and also alleged that he would use physical barriers, force, threats of force and more, such as locking his bedroom door, to prevent the women from leaving during the alleged assaults.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Frances, whom Robinson married in 2002, is also named in the lawsuit, as the plaintiffs allege that she had full knowledge of his prior acts of sexual misconduct and failed to take the appropriate corrective action to prevent his deviant misconduct, even after settling cases with other women who experienced similar alleged assaults by Robinson.

The plaintiffs  who all worked as housekeepers  also accuse the couple of failing to pay minimum wage and overtime.

Jane Doe 1 began working for Robinson in January 2023, and claims she was assaulted by the star at least seven times before she resigned in February 2024, according to the complaint. She and the three other plaintiffs say they did not report his alleged assaults to authorities for fear of losing their "livelihood, familial reprisal, public embarrassment, shame and humiliation," as well as "being threatened and intimidated" by Robinson's celebrity status.

Emma McIntyre/Getty In this image released on June 3 Smokey Robinson visits the SiriusXM studios on March 26, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. In this image released on June 3 Smokey Robinson visits the SiriusXM studios on March 26, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

Related: Who Is Smokey Robinson's Wife? All About Frances Robinson

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Jane Doe 2 worked for Robinson from May 2014 to February 2020, and claims she was assaulted by the star at least 23 times. Per the complaint, Robinson allegedly "raped" her and also forced her to perform oral sex on his erect penis.

Jane Doe 3 says in the complaint that Robinson "raped" her "at least 20 times" during her tenure as a housekeeper, from February 2012 to April 2024.

Per the complaint, Jane Doe 4, meanwhile, worked for Robinson from October 2006 to April 2024, when she resigned due to the alleged sexual assaults and sexual harassment. Jane Doe 4, who also worked as Francess personal assistant, cook and hairdresser, says in the complaint that Robinson first forced her into his bedroom and raped her in 2007, and that such assaults "continued" before she quit.

The plaintiffs are seeking damages of at least $50 million.



If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, please contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or go to rainn.org.

Read the original article on People
DURHAM, N.C. (WNCN)  A major Duke Energy power outage cut out power for almost 10,000 customers late Monday evening into early Tuesday morning in Durham.

According to Duke Energy officials, the power outage was caused by a black snake.

I feel sorry for the snake cause he was probably just trying to be warm, said Duke Energy customer, Jamichael Daye.

The outage was reported a little after 11 p.m., when 9,920 customers were without power in east Durham.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I woke up in the pitch dark for about four, five hours, another Duke Energy customer, Immanuel Holland, told CBS 17. It was about 1:30 last night when it came back on.

Jeff Brooks, a spokesperson with Duke Energy, said they believe the snake came into contact with our power lines around the substation and caused the outage. We put a number of protections in place to help prevent animal related outages, but even with those measures, they do sometimes occur.

He added, It just usually, unfortunately, creates a situation where the safety systems in the substation activate because something unusual is occurring and it shuts power off, just like the breakers in your house trip when something is unusual with a voltage in your house. Substations have protections to make sure those safety systems activate to prevent a larger power outage or more damage in the substation.

Brooks tells CBS 17 they are checking the substation to see where the snake may have entered, so they can make any necessary changes to prevent this from happening again.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the outage map, power was fully restored around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday.

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.
WICHTA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL)  Welcome back to the Social Rundown, where you can learn about the online trends happening globally and in Texoma, too!

Want to get the latest tea or news on whats trending on social media? Tune in daily!

Metallica buddies

George Probst and Jeff Holland have added Lane Stadium to a long list of stages where they`ve seen Metallica live. The pair met in college and bonded over their constant wear of Metallica shirts and love for the band. both seeing the legendary rock band more than 100 times each. The two buds have been going to these concerts since their college days in the 90s.

Arrest due to raccoon and meth pipe

An Ohio woman got pulled over as she had a warrant for her arrest and during the stop, the police noticed something unusual; a raccoon inside the SUV with the suspect and the suspects mom. The woman is arrested and when the police take a look at the raccoon it is surprisingly holding a crack pipe which then turns out to be two as the raccoon pulls another out trying to eat it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 Texomashomepage.com.
SOMERSET, Pa.  A federal lawsuit has been settled between Somerset County and a former county maintenance worker over free speech rights.

Somerset County commissioners voted 3-0 to approve an agreement outlining the settlements terms, which Somerset County Co-Solicitor Benjamin Carroll said includes a $125,000 payment to the former employee.

The move settles a six-year-long dispute with former county worker Eric Trent, who sued the county in 2020.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Carroll said the payment includes both county funds and an unspecified payout from the countys insurance company.

He said under terms of the agreement, he could not get more specific but that the document speaks for itself.

Carroll acknowledged the written agreement is a public record subject to the Right-to-Know Law and that the media is able to request a copy.

The Tribune-Democrat filed a written RTK request with the office Tuesday, and Carroll said the county must discuss the request with all parties involved prior to its release.

Barring any valid objections, its our intent to follow the law and release it, he said Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

First Amendment suit

Issues raised in the lawsuit date back to mid-2019. None of Somersets current commissioners were serving in office at the time.

Somerset County and former President Commissioner Gerald Walker were sued by Trent after he voiced concern to Walker about a trend of hiring out-of-state workers for administrative roles at the time.

Federal court documents indicated the discussion between Walker and Trent occurred during a trade show and ended with Trent saying hed work to see Walker defeated in an upcoming election for continuing the hiring practice.

Trent lost his county job a short time later.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He was publicly escorted from the courthouse, his suit alleged at the time.

Trent responded with the 2020 lawsuit, maintaining he had a right to voice his opinion and frustration about the countys practice.

The countys hired Pittsburgh legal counsel, Gabriel Fera, argued Trent raised issues too trivial to be of public concern  and the board was within its right to terminate Trent.

But an appeals court sided with Trent in 2024. As a county citizen, Trent had a First Amendment right to voice his opinion about a public concern, a federal appeals court wrote.

The matter was sent back to the federal courts for mediation since.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trent was contacted by The Tribune-Democrat for comment Tuesday. He said he could not discuss settlement specifics, but in a telephone interview said he was happy with the way the case was resolved.

Im thankful for all the support I received from county employees, he said, adding that hes continued receiving supportive calls from fellow Somerset County residents. It was a long process, but Im just glad its settled now.

Happy to have it resolved

Somerset County officials said they were also eager to move on from the matter.

This is an issue that arose prior to the term of these commissioners. (The legal dispute) has gone on for a long time, and were happy to have it resolved, Carroll added during an interview after the countys board meeting alongside current commissioners board members Brian Fochtman, Irv Kimmel Jr. and Pamela Tokar-Ickes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Online court documents show the case was resolved in late February through mediation between Somerset Countys legal counsel and Trents attorneys.

Efforts to reach Walker were not successful Tuesday. A message for comment was not returned.

DeLuca: Recoup losses

Somerset county officials did not specify how theyll specifically cover the countys settlement costs.

During the countys retirement board meeting Tuesday, Somerset County Treasurer Anthony DeLuca Jr. suggested the county take steps to recoup the funds from Walker.

DeLuca said the former commissioners pension is not yet being dispersed to Walker and suggested that those retirement funds could be frozen ... to recoup some of that money.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Otherwise ... its coming from taxpayers pockets, he said. Id want to go after that (money).

The countys three commissioners did not respond to DeLucas suggestion during the board meeting.

Carroll said its something the commissioners board could discuss among themselves as an option, if they choose.
CHICAGO  The son of former Mexican Drug Lord Joaquin El Chapo Guzman has reached a plea deal in his drug trafficking case.

A new court filing said Ovidio Guzman Lopez is scheduled to change his plea to guilty at a hearing in Chicago on Wednesday, July 9.

Lopez, 34, was arrested in 2023 and extradited to the U.S. where he is awaiting trial.

Reported crimes at Chicago Public Libraries on the rise, data shows

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lopez and his brother Joaquin are accused of taking over the Sinaloa Cartel after their fathers arrest.

Both of them face several charges, including drug trafficking and money laundering.

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.
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO)  The man who died in Hurricane Helene, Steve Cloyd, has been found dead after a months-long search.

The body of Steve Cloyd, the Rockford-native who went missing when Hurricane Helene hit Tennessee last year, has been found.

Cloyds remains were found along the Nolichucky River on May 1st.

Me and my dad, we talked, we communicated, said Cloyds son Matt. But you start to wonder, could I have called more? Should I have driven down more, should I have found more time? And then, like you start to think, Did they know we loved them? Did they know as it was happening, did they know that they were cared about?

We are heartbroken, but we now have the closure we waited for so long and our family can start to heal and mend the broken pieces along the way as we walk the journey of life guided by God and Steve, Cloyds wife, Keli, wrote on Facebook. Steve is coming home to us and for that I am grateful.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Keli, 55, and Cloyd, 60, were born and raised in Rockford. The couple moved from Rockford to Tennessee three years ago. On September 27th, Keli went into work while Steve stayed home with their dog, Orion, and monitored Hurricane Helenes steady approach.

Keli said Steve was texting her throughout the day, sending pictures and videos of the state of their home.

Hed start sending me videos of the house, saying its now becoming completely flooded, Keli said. The basements flooded, the tops flooded and now hes concerned.

Keli said in between messages, Steve called her and said it wasnt looking good. He said water had risen and the basement was gone. Steve then took Orion and headed for the Jeep that was parked outside.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Keli remembered Steve telling her the car wouldnt start and that his phone was losing battery as well.

He calls me and says, Im calling to tell you I love you, but I think its the end, Keli said. And I said, No, no, no, no, no, no, no. I have never heard fear in that mans voice like I heard it that morning. And that crushed me.

Keli met with several national and local news stations, searching and asking for help. She said Orion and the Jeep were miraculously recovered, but there was no sign of Steve.

Another woman, Nancy Tucker, is still missing.

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.
HONG KONG (AP)  Sothebys on Wednesday postponed an auction of jewels associated with Buddhas remains after the Indian government opposed the sale and demanded it be halted.

The gems for auction were found buried together in reliquaries with the corporeal relics of the historical Buddha and discovered in northern India in 1898, the auction house said. They dated back to around 240-200 BC, it said.

But India's Ministry of Culture said in a Facebook post on Tuesday it had issued a legal notice to Sothebys Hong Kong to demand the immediate halt of the sale, accusing the auction of violating Indian laws, international norms and UN conventions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In its letter to Sotheby's Hong Kong dated Monday, posted on Facebook, it said the auction involves sacred Buddhist relics that constitute the inalienable religious and cultural heritage of India and the global Buddhist community. It demanded the repatriation of the relics to the Indian government and a public apology from the auction house and Chris Peppe.

Peppe is a great-grandson of British William Peppe, who excavated the relics.

The Indian government warned in the letter that failure to comply would result in legal actions and public advocacy campaigns highlighting the auction house's role in perpetuating colonial injustice and becoming a party to unethical sale of religious relics.

Sotheby's announced the postponement in a statement on Wednesday, acknowledging the matters raised by the Indian government and saying it was done with the agreement of the consignors.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This will allow for discussions between the parties, and we look forward to sharing any updates as appropriate, it said.

Some of Sotheby's webpages about the auction were no longer available on Wednesday.

The Indian Ministry of Culture said on Facebook on Wednesday it was pleased to inform that the auction was postponed after its intervention.
Pakistans Security Cabinet on Wednesday authorized the military to retaliate against deadly overnight strikes by India, bringing the South Asian region to the brink, amid frantic diplomatic efforts to de-escalate.

Global powers from Washington to London and regional players from Beijing to Moscow were in a diplomatic flurry to ease tensions as more clashes appeared imminent between the nuclear-armed rivals.

India launched a series of missile strikes, from both the air and surface, inside Pakistan and the part of Kashmir under its control on Tuesday night, killing 26 people and wounding nearly four dozen, the military said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

New Delhi said strikes targeted hideouts of Islamist jihadist groups allegedly behind last months terrorist attack in the Indian part of Kashmir that had killed 26 tourists.

Pakistan said those killed were civilians including children as young as three and women.

Pakistans Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said his countrys air force shot down five Indian fighter jets in overnight clashes that erupted after the strikes.

At least three French-manufactured Rafale jets were among the planes hit by Pakistani missiles fired from both the air and the ground across the de facto frontier in the disputed region of Kashmir, Sharif said in an address to the parliament.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Up to 80 Indian fighter jets were airborne during the attack, but Pakistani forces chased them away. Five were downed," Sharif said as he praised the response of his countrys air force.

Sharifs Security Cabinet declared the Indian strikes an act of war and authorized the military to retaliate earlier in the day, in a move that could bring the South Asian region to the brink of another war.

Sharif, however, did not say any word about any further escalation in his brief speech in parliament.

The National Security Committee called the deadly Indian strikes a act of naked aggression and vowed to respond at a meeting in the capital Islamabad chaired by Sharif.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"These illegal acts are blatant violations of Pakistans sovereignty and territorial integrity, which manifestly constituted acts of war under international law," a statement by Sharif's office said.

"The armed forces of Pakistan have duly been authorized to undertake corresponding actions in this regard."

The committee has urged the UN Security Council and the world to recognize the gravity of Indias illegal actions and hold it accountable.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke to both Pakistani and Indian national security advisers overnight in efforts aimed at de-escalation in the region.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

China, a major power in the region and a close political ally of Pakistan, also called for de-escalation, joining calls by several Gulf Arab states and the United Nations.

The deputy foreign minister of Saudi Arabia, another major ally of Pakistan, was expected in Islamabad on Thursday as part of a US-backed effort to bring down tensions.

Qatars premier spoke to Sharif on the phone, while diplomats in Islamabad kept shuttling between the prime ministers office and the foreign ministry to look for some common ground to end what could be a possible disaster.

India and Pakistan have fought three wars since their independence in 1947 and returned from the brink of a fourth one on the control of Kashmir, which both countries claim as theirs.

India accused Pakistan of backing several groups of Islamist militants who target security forces and civilians in deadly attacks in Kashmir. Islamabad denies the allegations.
Marmara Group Foundation President Akkan Suver speaks during the 28th Eurasian Economic Summit in Istanbul, Turkiye, on May 7, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Feng)

ISTANBUL, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The 28th Eurasian Economic Summit kicked off in Istanbul on Wednesday, with a focus on dialogue in tackling pressing global challenges like conflicts, climate change, economic inequality, and migration.

Under the theme "A More Humane World -- Dialogue for a Livable World," the two-day summit is organized by the Istanbul-based Marmara Group Strategic and Social Research Foundation.

Marmara Group Foundation President Akkan Suver described the summit as a unique platform for fostering inclusive dialogue among diverse voices from around the world.

"In a world increasingly defined by conflict and polarization, our theme 'Dialogue for a Livable World' underscores the urgent need for civil society, reason, and conscience to guide us toward peace and cooperation," Suver said in his opening remarks.

The summit includes a range of sessions, including "Ecology, Economy, Energy, and Artificial Intelligence" and "International Collaborations in Health," highlighting the multi-faceted approach required to tackle the global challenges.

One of the summit's highlights will be the session on "Disaster-Resilient Cities," where global leaders will explore ways to strengthen urban infrastructure and ensure resilience against the increasing threat of natural disasters, driven by climate change.

Additionally, the "Peace and Dialogue" session will explore new approaches to peacebuilding and create opportunities for meaningful dialogue in an increasingly polarized world.

The summit attracted over 300 politicians, diplomats, academics, and entrepreneurs from nearly 50 countries. 
Pakistan's Security Cabinet on Wednesday authorized the military to retaliate against deadly overnight strikes by India, bringing the South Asian region to the brink, amid frantic diplomatic efforts to de-escalate.

Global powers from Washington to London and regional players from Beijing to Moscow were in a diplomatic flurry to ease tensions as more clashes appeared imminent between the nuclear-armed rivals.

India launched a series of missile strikes, from both the air and surface, inside Pakistan and the part of Kashmir under its control on Tuesday night, initially killing 26 people and wounding nearly four dozen, the military said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistan's military later updated the death toll to 31. It said another 57 people were wounded since Tuesday night. The rise in numbers, according to the army, was due to "unprovoked ceasefire violations" by the Indian forces.

New Delhi said strikes targeted hideouts of Islamist jihadist groups allegedly behind last month's terrorist attack in the Indian part of Kashmir that had killed 26 tourists.

Pakistan said those killed were civilians including children as young as three and women.

Pakistans Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said his countrys air force shot down five Indian fighter jets in overnight clashes that erupted after the strikes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At least three French-manufactured Rafale jets were among the planes hit by Pakistani missiles fired from both the air and the ground across the de facto frontier in the disputed region of Kashmir, Sharif said in an address to the parliament.

"Up to 80 Indian fighter jets were airborne during the attack, but Pakistani forces chased them away. Five were downed," Sharif said as he praised the response of his countrys air force.

Sharifs Security Cabinet declared the Indian strikes an act of war and authorized the military to retaliate earlier in the day, in a move that could bring the South Asian region to the brink of another war.

Sharif, however, did not say any word about any further escalation in his brief speech in parliament.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The National Security Committee called the deadly Indian strikes an act of naked aggression and vowed to respond at a meeting in the capital Islamabad chaired by Sharif.

"These illegal acts are blatant violations of Pakistans sovereignty and territorial integrity, which manifestly constituted acts of war under international law," a statement by Sharif's office said.

"The armed forces of Pakistan have duly been authorized to undertake corresponding actions in this regard."

The committee has urged the UN Security Council and the world to recognize the gravity of Indias illegal actions and hold it accountable.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke to both Pakistani and Indian national security advisers in efforts aimed at de-escalation in the region.

China, a major power in the region and a close political ally of Pakistan, also called for de-escalation, joining calls by several Gulf Arab states and the United Nations.

EU and Germany call for de-escalation

The European Union's foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas on Wednesday expressed concern over the escalating conflict between India and Pakistan.

"It is very concerning what is happening there. It is clear that this war is not good for anybody," said Kallas, as she arrived at a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Warsaw.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We are trying to mediate and bring the tensions down," she added.

New German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called on India and Pakistan to de-escalate. "It is now more important than ever to keep calm," Merz said during his inaugural visit to Paris on Wednesday.

He stressed the need for "prudence and reason," adding that "no one in the region should have any interest in further escalation."

Merz said he and French President Emmanuel Macron were deeply concerned by the clashes between India and Pakistan.

The deputy foreign minister of Saudi Arabia, another major ally of Pakistan, was expected in Islamabad on Thursday as part of a US-backed effort to bring down tensions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Qatar's premier spoke to Sharif on the phone, while diplomats in Islamabad kept shuttling between the prime minister's office and the foreign ministry to look for some common ground to end what could be a possible disaster.

India and Pakistan have fought three wars since their independence in 1947 and returned from the brink of a fourth one on the control of Kashmir, which both countries claim as theirs.

India accused Pakistan of backing several groups of Islamist militants who target security forces and civilians in deadly attacks in Kashmir. Islamabad denies the allegations.
SOUTH CAROLINA (WSAV)  South Carolina is now leading the nation in a new category, banned books.

The South Carolina Board of Education voted to take 10 more books off school library shelves on Tuesday. That brings the total to 22 different titles banned from schools.

The books were all challenged by a Beaufort County woman for their inappropriate or sexual content.

The State Board of Educations Instructional Materials Review Committee (IMRC) recommended banning Regulation 43-170, which deems any book containing a description of sexual conduct age-inappropriate for all students from kindergarten through 12th grade.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This vote was delayed by a month after Board members expressed concerns about the wording of the regulation which allowed them to ban books statewide.

The 10 books were officially removed from public school libraries and classroom collections in the state include:

Collateral by Ellen Hopkins

Empire of Storms by Sarah J. Maas

Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Hopeless by Colleen Hoover

Identical by Ellen Hopkins

Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J. Maas

Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo

Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott

Lucky by Alice Sebold

Tricks by Ellen Hopkins

There was no discussion during the meeting about the titles. Two State Schoolboard members, David OShields and the Rev. Tony Vincent did not vote to ban the books.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The state is continuing to leave educational decisions for all students up to one parent, said Josh Malkin, Advocacy Director for the ACLU of South Carolina. This is problematic and counter to the foundational democratic ideals of public education.

The board previously voted to remove or restrict access to the following titles:

Damsel by Elana Arnold

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

Flamer by Mike Curato

Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover

All Boys Arent Blue by George M. Johnson

A Court of Frost and Starlight by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas

Normal People by Sally Rooney

Push by Sapphire

Ellen Hopkins novel Crank is now under restricted access. It is still in high school libraries, but a parent or guardian must fill out an opt-in form for a student to borrow it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW)  The South Carolina Department of Transportation has scheduled a drop-in style public information meeting about proposed upgrades along a section of N. Kings Highway.

The work between 27th Ave N. to Cove Drive in Myrtle Beach would include high-visibility crosswalks, ADA ramps, countdown signal heads, pedestrian improvements at traffic signals, updated signage, and access management practices to reduce angle and pedestrian collisions. Construction would not begin until 2027.

Map courtesy of South Carolina Department of Transportation

The meeting will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on May 22 at the Ocean View Baptist Church, located at 7300 N. Kings Highway. There will not be a formal presentation, but DOT officials will be available to answer questions from community members. The DOT will also accept comments on this project through June 6.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

* * *

Dennis Bright is the Digital Executive Producer at News13. He joined the team in May 2021. Dennis is a West Virginia native and a graduate of Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. Follow Dennis on Facebook, X, formerly Twitter, and read 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 WBTW.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCBD)  Relief could be on the way for South Carolina restaurants and bars grappling with high insurance premiums thanks to a compromise on liquor liability reform.

Rep. Weston Newton (R-Beaufort) announced Tuesday evening that the House and Senate had reached an agreement that addresses liquor liability as well as joint and several liability.

The agreement, approved by the House, ends weeks of back and forth between the two chambers. Senators are expected to vote on the measure  a much narrower version of the tort reform bill they passed  during Wednesdays session.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lowering insurance rates for bars and restaurants was billed as a top priority entering the legislative session, as the hospitality industry warned that soaring premiums were forcing businesses to close across the state.

But negotiations between the two chambers dragged on for weeks, with senators pushing for a comprehensive tort reform package that addressed several industries while the House version dealt only with liquor liability.

At the end of the day, this is about not holding our bars and restaurants hostage any longer, Rep. Weston Newton said Tuesday on the floor.

At issue was a 2017 law that required establishments serving alcohol past 5 p.m. to carry an insurance policy with total coverage of at least $1 million. Supporters argued it ensured victims of alcohol-related incidents were fully compensated, but many in the industry said it led to some insurance companies pulling out of the state and raising rates.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

10 more books pulled from South Carolina public school shelves

The compromise leaves the $1 million minimum requirement in place but creates a so-called risk mitigation program that allows businesses to drop their rates.

An establishment that stops serving alcohol by midnight, for example, could see its limit reduced by $250,000.

The bill also requires all servers to complete an alcohol training course, and businesses that serve alcohol on-site between midnight and 4 a.m. use a forensic system to check IDs. Those who participate can see a $100,000 reduction.

In addition, establishments where alcohol sales account for less than 40% of their total revenue would also qualify for the $100,000 reduction.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is a system of step-down mitigation that rewards the good actors, but it does include differences in the Senate of requiring the serving training and requiring the scanners to validate IDs, Newton explained, adding that businesses would have to maintain a $300,000 policy at minimum.

The agreement also makes changes to how liability is determined and damages can be awarded in civil lawsuits involving alcohol.

Current state law allows for joint and several liability, meaning defendants who are found more than 50% at fault can be held responsible for paying the full amount of a victims damages.

Under the compromise, all parties that contributed to a plaintiffs injuries would be added to the jury form, a move proponents argued would stop individuals and businesses from being unfairly penalized for the actions of others.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rep. Jay Jordan (R-Florence) said the agreement balances the path forward that [bars and restaurants] desperately need with the liability piece that allows the business climate to be what it can be.

Senators have until the end of session at 5 p.m. Thursday to approve the measure and send it to the governors desk.

If signed, most provisions of the bill would take effect Jan. 1, 2026.

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 WCBD News 2.
A South Carolina man is facing charges after allegedly breaking into his ex-girlfriend's home

He allegedly hid in her shower wearing her bike shorts as a mask

He is charged with assault and battery, burglary, and weapons possession

A South Carolina man is facing multiple felony charges after allegedly ambushing his ex-girlfriend in her home while hiding in her shower.

According to a report from the Charleston Police Department cited by local outlets WCBD and WCIV, it was meant to be a prank to ease tensions after an argument.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Jackson Collum Arnold, 25, allegedly broke into his ex-girlfriends garage apartment just before midnight Sunday, hiding in her shower until she returned home. Wearing only a pair of her bike shorts over his face and a hat, Arnold was otherwise naked from the waist down when he confronted the woman with a knife, the report said.

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.

The victim told officers she feared for her life when Arnold allegedly held the knife to the side of her head and simulated slashing her throat before choking her. She managed to remove the shorts obscuring his face and identified him as her on-again-off-again boyfriend, according to the police.

Arnold claimed he intended only to surprise the woman and lighten the mood following a text message dispute earlier in the night, the report said, per the outlets.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigators said Arnold attempted to avoid detection by parking far from the home and leaving his phone behind. Officers later found his underwear in the bathroom; he had reportedly dressed in jeans by the time police arrived in response to a 911 call.

Arnold was arrested and booked on charges of first-degree burglary, assault and battery, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.

Read the original article on People
Norma Torres Ortiz, a registered nurse with the Huron Regional Medical Center, works with a patient. (Courtesy of Huron Regional Medical Center)

Norma Torres Ortiz quit her full-time job at a Huron nursing home in February 2019 to spend her days studying for the national nurse licensure exam.

Her first language isnt English, its Spanish. Originally from Puerto Rico, she still considers English a struggle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To pass a challenging professional exam in a language shes still learning, she had to work twice as hard.

It took the 47-year-old two years to pass the test, succeeding in June 2019. Now, shes a travel nurse contracted with Avera Health and working part time at the Huron Regional Medical Center.

Every single time I write RN by my name, I stop and feel so grateful, Torres Ortiz said. I didnt think Id ever pass.

After moving to South Dakota in 2018 in the years after being displaced by Hurricane Maria, Torres Ortiz learned that many other non-English-speaking U.S. citizens, immigrants and refugees with professional nursing backgrounds live in the Huron area.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But like she was initially, they were standing along meatpacking assembly lines or cleaning houses. Studying for the licensure exam, or NCLEX, would mean theyd have to study English harder, take time off work or quit their jobs entirely, she said.

Its a missed opportunity, Torres Ortiz said, as health care systems in Huron, elsewhere in South Dakota and across the country suffer a nursing shortage. South Dakota is projected to have one of the highest nursing shortages in the county by 2030. There are 11 nursing vacancies at Huron Regional Medical Center currently.

So Torres Ortiz led an effort to help non-English speaking nurses study for the exam. It turned into the states first registered nursing apprenticeship through Huron Regional Medical Center. The program was approved by the state in February.

Apprenticeship serves as alternative to international hiring program

Larger health care systems like Sanford, Avera and Monument are building international nursing programs, recruiting and hiring nurses through work visas. International nurses must also pass the NCLEX to work in the state.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Avera Health has commitments from more than 170 international nurses, with one starting with the hospital system this year and another six planning to start working before the end of the year. Monument has hired international nurses since 2017. Though the program in western South Dakota has employed about 30 nurses a year, the program has dwindled to less than 10 due to federal visa backlogs. Sanford employs more than 700 internationally trained nurses across its five-state footprint, with plans to hire another 300 in the coming year or two.

Employing international nurses is a long-term strategy to stabilize the health care workforce, said Erica DeBoer, system vice president and chief nursing officer with Sanford.

With an aging workforce and population, theres truly not enough individuals to help care for all the patients that need our support, DeBoer said.

Smaller systems like Huron cant afford to hire large numbers of international nurses through an agency, said Brooke Sydow, program manager for the health system. The study group and apprenticeship program allows the system to tap into a market beyond its traditional university and technical college pipeline.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And apprenticeship programs arent new to the health system. Sydow said the system launched a practical nursing apprenticeship to build its workforce in 2018. A licensed practice nurse provides basic nursing care to patients and works under the supervision of registered nurses.

Reflecting the diversity of the Huron community

Apprentices start the new program by taking a medical language course for English language learners, enrolling in the licensing exam preparation class and training at the Huron hospital alongside a veteran nurse. There are five students in the group, which started in May last year, though Torres Ortiz hopes to see more join.

The classes alone cost the hospital about $1,350 per person. Sydow expects the total cost per apprentice will vary between $25,000 and $50,000, depending on how long they shadow another staff member. Sydow plans to cover all, or nearly all, expenses for apprentices through the hospital or with state funding, to financially support apprentices while they train so they can quit their other jobs and focus on their education. She plans to hire three apprentices in the first round.

Its worth the cost, Sydow said, because the health care system is investing in Hurons increasingly diverse community.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Beadle County is 68% white, 15% Hispanic or Latino and 12% Asian, according to 2023 estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau. The county has the highest percentage of Hispanic or Latino residents in the state.

That diversity is largely due to refugees from the Karen ethnic group, originally from Myanmar (formerly Burma), who moved to Huron starting in 2006, initially to work at a turkey plant. A wave of Hispanic immigrants moved to the county since 2000, also attracted by food processing and manufacturing plants.

Were trying to make our workforce reflect our community population, Sydow said. So thats a big piece of it: helping the community feel more connected and at home, so we have practitioners, providers and nurses who are the same as them.

Torres Ortiz would like to help more Puerto Ricans fill immediate nursing needs in South Dakota.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Before she moved to Florida in 2017 after being displaced by Hurricane Maria, she earned her bachelors degree in nursing in Puerto Rico. But she wasnt able to find a job because there were too few positions for the number of nurses at that time, she said. Instead, she cleaned houses and businesses. She followed her son to South Dakota after he started working in the area.

When you post a nursing job in Puerto Rico, you could get 20 applications in an hour, Torres Ortiz said. Here in Huron, you wait months to find and hire someone.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
The owner of a popular South Florida gun club that provides self-defense classes to women is charged with physically assaulting his girlfriend and her best friend, deputies say.

Maoz Muskal, 49, put his 27-year-old girlfriend in a chokehold before punching her friend in the face when she tried to intervene at the couples West Boca home in March, according to a probable cause affidavit. The friend told Palm Beach County Sheriffs Office deputies that he then dragged his girlfriend by her hair back inside the house when she tried to leave.

Though the incident happened in March, prosecutors did not file charges until early April, and deputies did not arrest Muskal until April 27. He now faces one count of domestic battery and one count of simple battery, both misdemeanors. He pleaded not guilty to both counts last Thursday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Most domestic violence cases come with protection orders that require defendants to surrender their firearms. But a Palm Beach County judge allowed Muskal to keep his guns for work purposes, according to a copy of a no-contact order filed April 28, a decision that has angered some of those close to the victims.

They let a highly trained military gun owner keep his weapons, a family friend of the woman who was allegedly punched said in a texted statement on her behalf.

Muskal, an Israeli citizen who goes by Commander M, is the owner of the gun club SSC Tactical in southern Palm Beach County, according to deputies, social media and business records. The company trains law enforcement as well as civilians and teaches self-defense classes to women including Krav Maga and shooting techniques.

When deputies spoke with Muskals girlfriend the night of the incident, she declined to press charges beyond saying in a sworn statement the two had a confrontation, according to body camera footage and a probable cause affidavit. She told deputies she didnt want to get Muskal in trouble or potentially harm his relationship with his children.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She did not return texts or calls Tuesday.

Muskal is one hundred percent not guilty of these charges, his attorney, Patrick McKamey of McKamey and Williams, told the South Florida Sun Sentinel on Tuesday. We expect him to be fully vindicated in the courtroom, and we were surprised that he even got charged given the evidence.

Like a switch flip

The night of March 8 started out perfect, the friend told deputies in the footage. Muskal, his girlfriend and her friend of 15 years had gone out together and were having a great time before returning to the couples West Boca home. Muskal and his girlfriend had been dating for about a year.

When his girlfriend went into her bedroom to change clothes, Muskal, who was sitting next to the friend on the couch, grabbed her and tried to kiss her, she told deputies, according to the affidavit. She pushed him away with both hands, but he tried to kiss her again. She then stood up and walked into his girlfriends bedroom and told her what had happened.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Muskal, who had been drinking, came in a few minutes later, she told deputies, and his girlfriend became upset with him. He denied that anything had happened. The girlfriend began pushing him towards the door, at which point he pushed her back, then put her in a chokehold on the bed as she cried for help. Muskal is 61 and much bigger than both of them, the friend said.

When the friend screamed for him to get off of his girlfriend, Muskal walked up to her, telling her to get out of his house before punching her in the face, according to her statement. He then turned back to his girlfriend and began punching her, according to the probable cause affidavit. The friend ran out of the house, then turned when she heard screaming behind her and saw Muskal drag his girlfriend back inside by her hair before shutting the door. The friend got in the car and called 911.

She later told deputies that she had met Muskal only twice before and had never seen him act anything but sweet towards her friend.

It was like a switch flip, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Deputies arrived to find both the friend and Muskals girlfriend, who had left the home and followed her, in a shopping plaza nearby, according to the affidavit. There, they tried to convince Muskals girlfriend to press charges, but she insisted on staying out of it, according to the footage, telling them he had a green card and young children visiting from Israel.

I cant tamper with it, his babies are coming next Thursday, she said. Im not going to do anything. I cant.

What about your babies? the deputy asked.

My babies are good, she replied. My babies are safe.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Your babies could have been without a mom today, easily, the deputy said. You dont see half the sh** that has happened in the news.

The March incident came amid backlash over law enforcements handling of a different domestic violence case in Tamarac. Nathan Gingles shot his wife, Mary, her father and a neighbor in front of their young daughter in February, according to the Broward Sheriffs Office. Unlike in Muskals case, a judge had ordered that Gingles surrender his guns, including the one he used that day, to the Broward Sheriffs Office due to a domestic violence injunction. He never did.

A few minutes after speaking with Muskals girlfriend and her friend, deputies went to the couples West Boca home, where no one answered the door. Outside, they conferred with one another over potential charges.

We have false imprisonment, one said, referring to Muskal dragging his girlfriend into the house, though prosecutors didnt end up charging him with that. Another said they could have tried to charge him with strangulation if not for the girlfriend not cooperating. Muskal was not charged with strangulation either.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Deputies also spoke that night about how Muskal likely had firearms inside the home, though his girlfriend arrived soon after and told them the only gun inside was her own.

Muskal has no prior criminal or domestic violence history in Palm Beach County, according to court records, but a filing from a family court case in Israel described him as a violent man who had extramarital affairs, summarizing an account from his wife, who is also the mother of his children. A divorce case between the two also references complaints made by Muskals wife to Israeli police that kept him from being able to work as a carpenter because he could not go to government offices. Ultimately, the two agreed to shared custody of their children, and the wife agreed to drop her police complaint against Muskal. The Israel family court documents were included in a Palm Beach County court child support case in 2020.

Some of those close to the recent case are now upset that it took over a month for Muskal to be arrested, that prosecutors did not file steeper charges, and that the judge did not order him to surrender his guns.

Our justice system has taken months to arrest Muskal, the statement from the family friend said, someone who tried to make sexual advances and then beat two women in his home.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Palm Beach County State Attorneys Office declined to comment on the reasoning behind the charges, citing the active case. Part of the reason charges were filed in early April when the incident happened in March is because deputies did not bring the case to the State Attorney until March 20, a spokesperson said.

McKamey, Muskals attorney, said there were zero injuries and that he was surprised (Muskal) even got charged given the evidence.

The jaw of the friend who was punched was slightly swollen, deputies said in the affidavit.

Asked about the judges decision to allow Muskal to keep his firearms, McKamey said his client required them for work and was using them only for that purpose, similar to when judges allow bartenders to possess alcohol for work purposes if they get a DUI.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Youre really not being presumed innocent if its going to end your ability to work, McKamey said.

SSC Tactical

Muskal, identified only as Commander M, formerly served in the Israeli special forces and police, according to posters for SSC Tactical on social media.

The companys training is based on battle proven methods by Israeli special forces, one poster reads.

Videos on the companys social media pages depict Muskal training people to shoot a range of weapons, including AR rifles and handguns. Some videos show him teaching Palm Beach County Sheriffs deputies and West Palm Beach Police officers how to operate law enforcement technology used in Israel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Multiple posts advertise womens self-defense classes focused on CPR, pistol shooting and Krav Maga techniques, designed to help women defend themselves in real life situations.

Dont be that girl thats not prepared, reads one caption in a video advertisement on Instagram. Another reads, Empowered Women, Tactical Warriors!

Other videos on the companys YouTube page demonstrate how to escape being choked.

A case disposition hearing on the misdemeanor charges is set for May 12.
Sign up for CNNs Wonder Theory science newsletter. Explore the universe with news on fascinating discoveries, scientific advancements and more.

An island 50 miles (80 kilometers) off the southern tip of the Korean Peninsula is home to a unique and celebrated community of women: the Haenyeo.

These women dive year-round off Jeju Island, collecting sea urchin, abalone and other seafood from the ocean floor, descending as much as 60 feet (18 meters) beneath the surface multiple times over the course of four to five hours each day. They dive throughout pregnancy and well into old age, without the help of any breathing equipment  just a wet suit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For thousands of years, we think, theyve been doing this incredible, matrilineal thing, where they learn from the mother how to dive at a very young age. They go out in these collectives, and thats what they do. They dive, said Melissa Ann Ilardo, a geneticist and assistant professor in biomedical informatics at the University of Utah.

Theyre spending really an extraordinary percentage of their time underwater.

Ilardo, along with colleagues in South Korea, Denmark and the United States, wanted to understand how the women manage this incredible physical feat. Specifically, the researchers wondered whether the divers have unique DNA that allows them to go without oxygen for so long or if that ability is the result of a lifetime of training  or a combination of the two.

The findings of their investigation, published in the scientific journal Cell Reports on May 2, uncovered unique genetic differences the Haenyeo have evolved to cope with the physiological stress of free diving. Its a discovery that could one day lead to better treatments for blood pressure disorders, researchers say.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its a beautiful island, like sometimes they call it the Hawaii of Korea. Theres this coastline everywhere thats rich with great resources, so you can imagine any population living in a place like that of course you would want to take advantage of it, Ilardo said.

The divers spend a large percentage of their day underwater, repeatedly diving to the seabed to collect sea urchins, abalone and other seafood. - SeongJoon Cho/Bloomberg/Getty Images

Diving has been part of Jeju culture for many years. Its unclear at what point it became a women-only activity, but theories include a tax on male divers or a shortage of men, Ilardo said. Still, diving is so integral to Jejus population that the shortening of words characteristic of the Jeju language is attributed to the need for divers to communicate quickly, according to the new study.

However, the practice is dying out. Young women are no longer continuing this matrilineal tradition; the current group of Haenyeo divers, with an average age of around 70 years, may represent the last generation, the researchers noted in the study.

Diving into DNA

For their research, Ilardo and her colleagues recruited 30 Haenyeo divers, 30 non-diving women from Jeju and 31 women from the South Korean mainland. The average age of the participants was 65. The researchers compared participants heart rates, blood pressure and spleen sizes and sequenced their genomes  a detailed genetic blueprint  from blood samples.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The studys biggest challenge was safely replicating the physical stress of being underwater for relatively long periods for participants with no diving experience, Ilardo noted. The researchers solved this problem by conducting simulated dives, during which participants held their breath while submerging their faces in cold water.

We would have loved to collect these measurements from everyone in the open ocean, but obviously you cant ask 65-(year-old), 67-year-old women who have never dived before in their lives to hop in the water and hold their breath and dive, Ilardo said.

Fortunately, if you hold your breath and put your face in a bowl full of cold water, your body responds as if youre diving. And thats because the nerve that stimulates the mammalian dive reflex goes through your face, she said.

When you feel the cold water combined with the breath hold, your body says, oh Im diving: So your heart rate slows down, your blood pressure increases and your spleen contracts, she added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The teams analysis revealed that the participants from Jeju  both divers and non-divers  were more than four times more likely than mainland Koreans to have a genetic variant associated with lower blood pressure.

Your blood pressure increases as you dive. Their (Jeju residents) blood pressure increases less, Ilardo explained.

The researchers believe the trait may possibly have evolved to keep unborn children safe because the Haenyeo dive throughout pregnancy, when high blood pressure can be dangerous.

The team also found that the Jeju participants were more likely to have a genetic variation previous research has linked to cold and pain tolerance. However, the researchers did not measure the participants ability to withstand low temperatures, so they cant say for sure whether the variant may be important for the Haenyeos ability to dive year-round.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Throughout winter theyre diving when its snowing, and up until the 1980s, they were doing that in cotton with no protection at all. Theres a lot more that we need to explore and find the answers to, Ilardo said.

The Haenyeos diving prowess didnt come down to genetics alone. The study also found that the female divers had a slower heart rate than non-divers during the tests  a factor that would help them to conserve oxygen during a dive.

It was quite dramatic. Actually, their heart rate dropped about 50% more over the course of the dive than the control (participants). We know that its because of training, because its something that we only saw in the Haenyeo, Ilardo said.

Ilardos previous work involving free diving communities known as the Bajau in Sulawesi, Indonesia, had revealed genetic adaptations that allowed the Bajau to go for longer periods without oxygen, resulting in unusually large spleens.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, while Jeju residents did, on average, have a larger spleen than the study participants from mainland South Korea, the effect wasnt significant when other factors like age, height and weight were accounted for, she said.

The average age of Jeju's Haenyeo is around 70, and few young women want to train to become divers. - Xinhua/Shutterstock

A target for new drugs

The genetic variant that the study identified in the Jeju residents associated with lower blood pressure should be explored further, according to Ben Trumble, an associate professor at Arizona State Universitys School of Human Evolution and Social Change.

Those with this gene had more than a 10% reduction in blood pressure compared to those who dont have this gene, thats a pretty impressive effect, said Trumble, who wasnt involved in the study. Genes code for proteins, and if we can figure out which changes in proteins impact blood pressure, we could potentially create new drugs,

Nearly all medical and genetic studies are conducted in industrialized populations, usually in urban city centers, making Ilardos approach particularly valuable, Trumble added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Almost everything we know about what is normal when it comes to health is from these sedentary urban populations. However, for 99.9% of human history, we were hunter-gatherers, he said.

Natural selection optimized our bodies under very different selective pressures than those we face today.

Ilardo said she hopes to continue to study Jejus female divers and get a deeper understanding of the medical implications.

This study raises more questions than it answers, but first and foremost, it shows these women are extraordinary, she said.

Theres something biologically different about them that makes them extremely special, no matter how you characterize it, and what they do is unique and worth celebrating.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Millions of fast-food customers visit drive-thru windows each day in the U.S. In fact, roughly 43% of all fast-food orders are placed from behind the wheel, according to a recent report.

For the past 27 years, however, one of Southern Californias most popular coastal cities hasnt allowed the construction of new drive-thrus. Thats about to change.

In a major policy shift, the Carlsbad City Council voted on Tuesday to lift a longstanding ban on new drive-thru restaurants, a regulation dating back to 1997. In its 3-2 decision, the council agreed to open the door for future restaurants looking to add a drive-thru option, according to The San Diego Union-Tribune.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Businesses can submit individual proposals, which will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Business is tough, California fast-food franchise owner says

The prohibition on drive-thrus was initially enacted due to concerns about their impact on the communitys character, traffic congestion, and quality of life. Carlsbad is home to LEGOLAND theme park, The Flower Fields, and several upscale resorts and popular beaches.

Supporters of lifting the ban told the council that drive-thrus are especially convenient for the elderly, people with disabilities, and busy families with young children. Businesses also argued that drive-thrus can increase sales and create more jobs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Both sides have valid arguments, said Carlsbad Mayor Keith Blackburn, who voted in favor of the change. Its about choice, business, and quality of life.

Carlsbad had allowed only the original 12 restaurant drive-thrus that predated the ban, most of them close to the 5 Freeway. Exceptions to the new policy are districts like the Village and Barrio, which fall under different zoning regulations.

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.
A man was arrested for allegedly trying to meet a young boy for sex in San Bernardino County.

Allen Edward Zamrok, 35, of Chino, was following an online operation involving undercover deputies from the Rancho Cucamonga Sheriffs Station.

On May 6, deputies had posted on a social media app pretending to be a 13-year-old boy.

Zamrok, who went by the username Asianspice89, responded to the post and initiated a conversation with who he believed to be a young boy, investigators said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During the online chat, Zamrok allegedly agreed to meet with the boy to engage in sexual acts, authorities said.

Following an investigation, Zamrok was arrested for arranging to meet a minor for a lewd purpose. He was booked at the West Valley Detention Center and was being held on $50,000 bail.

Allen Edward Zamrok, 35, of Chino, is seen in a booking photo from the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department.

Detectives believe there may be additional underage victims who have not come forward.

Anyone who may have been approached by Zamrok, whether online or in person, or has information on the case is asked to call the Rancho Cucamonga Sheriffs Station at 909-477-2800.

Anonymous tips can be provided to We-Tip at 1-800-782-7463 or online at wetip.com.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
BRATISLAVA, May 6 (Xinhua) -- The European Commission's plan to stop the supply of gas, oil and nuclear fuel from Russia is not in Slovakia's interest, nor in that of other European Union (EU) member states, the Slovak Ministry of Economy said on Tuesday.

According to a press release issued by the ministry, Slovakia will not agree to the plan.

The European Commission on Tuesday unveiled a new roadmap to end EU's reliance on Russian gas by 2027. The REPowerEU Roadmap sets out a phased and coordinated plan to halt imports of Russian natural gas, oil, and nuclear materials across the 27-member bloc, according to the Commission.

Under the proposal, the EU would immediately stop signing new contracts for Russian gas and terminate all existing spot market deals by the end of 2025. All remaining Russian gas imports would cease by the end of 2027.

The move will have a negative impact on energy prices in Europe, further worsening the competitiveness of European industry, said the Slovak Ministry of Economy.

The Commission's proposal has not undergone a proper impact assessment and does not contain an analysis of the impact on prices, competitiveness or energy security, it added.

Slovak Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Denisa Sakova said the ministry disagrees with the proposal and will convey this stance to the Commission. 
BRUSSELS, Wis. (WFRV)  The Southern Door High School Student Council partnered with the American Red Cross on Wednesday to hold a blood drive for those willing and able to donate.

The blood drive ran from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. in the high school gym, with eligible donors lining up to help give blood.

Schools in Neenah host day of activities for students with disabilities

Anybody at least 17 years old, 110 pounds was eligible to donate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The event was founded as the need for blood continues to be a constant, as nationwide, people need a unit of blood every two or three seconds, the release 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 WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.
A piece of Soviet-era space debris is expected to crash land down to Earth this weekend.

The Russian Kosmos 482 spacecraft launched in 1972 could come plunging down some time between Friday and Sunday, according to NASA  but exactly when and where is currently a mystery.

As of Tuesday, the lander probe could strike between 52 degrees north latitude and 52 degrees south latitude, including all of Africa, South America, Australia, New Zealand, most of Europe and Asia, and the continental U.S. Experts say people shouldnt be too worried, but that they cannot exclude the chance of the spacecraft actually hitting someone or something.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"There's a not-trivial chance that it could hit somewhere where it damages property, and there's a small chance  but it's like one in thousands  that it could hurt someone, Dr. Jonathan McDowell, an astronomer at the Center for Astrophysics at Harvard & Smithsonian, told NPR.

A more accurate location and timeline should be known over the coming days, but NASA said the uncertainty will be fairly significant right up to reentry.

For now, heres what to know.

The Soviet Union launched the spacecraft known as Kosmos 482 as part of a series of Venus missions. Following a rocket malfunction, it never made it out of Earth orbit Now, its expected to fall back to Earth (NASA)

It can take the heat

Because the probe was designed to withstand entry into the Venus atmosphere, its possible the probe (or parts of it) will survive reentry at Earth and reach the surface, the space agency warned.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Although Venus isnt the closest planet to the sun, it is the hottest. The average surface temperature of the planet is a blistering 870 degrees Fahrenheit. Comparatively, when the future Orion spacecraft comes back from the moon, it will experience temperatures around 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit as it screams back into Earths atmosphere at 25,000 miles per hour. The extreme temperatures are why most falling debris burn up upon re-entry.

It was once larger

Hundreds of objects enter Earths atmosphere every year. At least three old satellites or rocket bodies come down every day. Most objects that dont burn up and disintegrate fall into the ocean, which covers 70 percent of Earths surface. It is rare for this debris to cause damage, but it does happen. With an increasing number of satellites in low-Earth orbit, the situation has become more precarious.

Over time, the atmospheric drag slowly lowers the orbit of space debris like Kosmos 482. The Venus probe failed to escape low-Earth orbit after its launch in 1972. Instead, the spherical, 1,000-pound object broke into four pieces after its rocket malfunctioned. Two of them decayed, and the lander probe  which has a parachute that may be visible right now  and another piece went higher.

Although Kosmos 482 never made it to Venus, its sister probe Venera 7 did. Since then dozens of others have launched to explore the second planet from the sun (NASA/JPL-Caltech)

It is thought that a malfunction resulted in an engine burn which did not achieve sufficient velocity for the Venus transfer, and left the payload in this elliptical Earth orbit, NASA said.

Scientists are still working to study Venus

The 1972 launch came toward the end of the space race. The Soviet Union had been launching Kosmos spacecraft ten years before Kosmos 482. Kosmos 482 was a sister probe to the successful Venera . Since then, dozens of other missions have been launched to explore Venus.

Several NASA missions are slated for the next few years, including DAVINCI, VERITAS, and EnVision. VERITAS and DAVINCI will be the first NASA spacecraft to explore Venus since the 1990s.
The Space Force is eyeing options to increase its launch capacity and resiliency as demand for U.S. national security and commercial launch continue to strain existing launch infrastructure.

Brig. Gen. Kristin Panzenhagen, who serves as program executive officer for assured access to space and oversees the services launch range operations, said this week the service is exploring a range of leads for increasing launch access  from new spaceports to international partnerships to newer models like sea-based launch. At the same time, its also investing in overburdened insfrastructure at its current sites.

The Space Force operates two of the busiest spaceports in the world at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida and Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The ranges have seen a steady, annual 30% increase in launch business for several years, Panzenhagen said during a May 6 Mitchell Institute event, conducting 144 missions in 2024  93 of those from Cape Canaveral.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The service is not in dire straits, when it comes to launch capacity, she said, but its infrastructure is supporting a higher mission cadence than any other spaceport in the world  most of that driven by commercial launch business.

Where were seeing the need for added capacity is to be able to continue to support those commercial payloads, Panzenhagen said. What we need for the national security space launch, what were always looking for, is that added resiliency.

To ensure access to more reliable and frequent launch opportunities for both military and commercial missions, the Space Force is investing nearly $1.4 billion through 2028 to improve its existing infrastructure.

The program, called Spaceport of the Future Infrastructure, aims to reduce disruption on the services ranges and sets a goal of conducting at least one launch every day. It also aims to improve the resiliency of infrastructure to things like extreme weather and interference, and reduce the impact an increased launch pace has on personnel and operations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To get after those goals, Panzenhagen said, her team has projects underway to widen roads to accommodate larger rockets, improve airfields, secure communication lines and increase power redundancy.

The service is also in talks with international and commercial partners about expanding access to other spaceports or ways of launching.

While Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg are the Space Forces primary launch sites, the service has also conducted launches from other domestic sites, including the Pacific Spaceport Complex in Alaska and NASAs Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia.

But the service is also in talks with other countries about taking advantage of their launch infrastructure. Panzenhagen pointed to Japan, New Zealand and France as potential partners in this effort  which she described as still preliminary. She also noted that Norway, the United Kingdom and Sweden have nascent launch capabilities that could be designed with built-in interoperability that makes it easier for international allies to leverage in the future.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Were at the very early stages of that, but Im really excited about building those international partnerships, she said.

Panzenhagen said shes also met with several companies that are developing sea-based launch capabilities. While past attempts at a viable sea-launch system have hit technical and financial snags, China has seen some success with that modality. The Space Force is studying options offered by firms like The Spaceport Company, which is building mobile, offshore launch sites.

Panzenhagen said these firms still need to prove their business case, but sea-based launch potentially could help relieve congestion at ranges and give the military access to more orbital locations.

Among the key considerations for the service are funding  whether companies would rely on government contracts or see opportunities for private investment  and the logistics of transporting a rocket and any associated commodities to a barge.

Its something that were interested in seeing what the possibilities are, Panzenhagen said.
The Federal Aviation Administration has given SpaceX the green light to increase its Starbase launches to 25 per year  that is, if other requirements are met. This will significantly expand the development of Texas billionaire Elon Musk's space company.

SpaceX was previously limited to just five launches a year. The company had proposed the increase during the Biden Administration, and the final review was announced Tuesday.

The FAA said the change in SpaceX's Starship license "would not significantly impact the quality of the human environment." The review was mandated under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), which requires the evaluation of environmental impact on proposed actions before they are approved.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Before Starship's license is changed, there are still some pending actions.

"There are other licensing requirements still to be completed," the FAA said in an emailed statement to CNBC News. Remaining requirements relate to "policy, payload, safety, financial responsibility and environmental impacts."

"Once the evaluation process is complete, the FAA will make a determination to approve or deny the license application," the agency added.

People are also reading: Upscale Austin suburb annoyed with Elon Musk's security, parties, 16-foot-high chain fence

SpaceX headquarters Starbase becomes new Texas city

The FAA's approval comes days after South Texas residents approved the incorporation of Starbase. Voters, the majority of whom are employed by SpaceX, chose to transfer authority from county officials to the city's new mayor, Bobby Peden, and the city council.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Back in December, Kathryn Lueders, the general manager of Starbase, wrote the official request to Cameron County Judge Eddie Trevino Jr.

"To continue growing the workforce necessary to rapidly develop and manufacture Starship, we need the ability to grow Starbase as a community," the petition letter said in part. "That is why we are requesting that Cameron County call an election to enable the incorporation of Starbase as the newest city in the Rio Grande Valley."

 Reuters contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: SpaceX gets FAA approval to increase Starship launches to 25 per year
Spains Socialist prime minister doubled down on a commitment to net zero over a week after an unprecedented blackout plunged the country into chaos.

Pedro Sanchez said his government would not be changing course despite warnings from the national grid operator that increasing reliance on renewables risked system collapse. He also ruled out a rethink of its plan to scrap Spains nuclear power stations.

Mr Sanchez said the cause of the April 28 outage remained unknown, but that renewables were not to blame.

Credit: Reuters | @agusssgtf

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There is not empirical evidence telling us that the incident was caused by an excess of renewable energy sources or from a lack of nuclear power, he said to parliament on Wednesday.

Hitting back at calls for the government to about-turn on scrapping the nuclear stations, he said nuclear power advocates were using the blackout as an excuse for a gigantic manipulation exercise.

Not a single serious study says nuclear power is essential for Spain, he said.

In Spain, the future of energy lies in other sources such as hydroelectric, solar, wind and green hydrogen. Renewables are not only the future; they are our only choice.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Before the blackout hit, renewables were generating 71 per cent of the grids electricity. Solar power accounted for more than half of the input into the system.

The collapse on April 28, which also knocked out power across Portugal and parts of southern France, lasted throughout the afternoon and into the evening in many places, with the grid recovering full power by 6am the next day.

Mr Sanchez said that in the moments before the lights went out, three incidents were registered in the system: one in the south of the country and two in the south-west. All were in areas that generate large amounts of solar power.

The prime minister said he understood that people were impatient to know the reason for the blackout, but warned it would take time to reconstruct the sequence of events.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The ministries leading the investigation had gathered 756 million data points from the electricity system, Mr Sanchez noted, insisting that Spains grid is among the safest in the world.

Spains government has not ruled out the possibility that a cyberattack caused the blackout.

The Red Electrica grid operator said it was not the victim of an attack on April 28, but that the causes of the incidents that took place in regional sub-grids have yet to be clarified.

The power outage also affected Portugal and parts of southern France - tBORJA SANCHEZ-TRILLO/Shutterstock

Mr Sanchez said Spains critical infrastructure received a thousand cyberattacks last year and pledged to improve the security of telecommunications, airports and the electricity grid.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

About 31 per cent of a 9 billion defence plan announced last month would be allocated towards upgrading telecommunications and cybersecurity capabilities, he said.

Alberto Nunez Feijoo, the opposition Peoples Party leader, said Mr Sanchez was taking Spaniards for fools with Wednesdays speech to parliament.

In an hour and a half he did not explain why the lights went out or how we are going to pay for the 10.5 billion in military spending.

Mr Sanchezs coalition government is divided on the need to boost defence spending, and has not been able to pass a state budget since before the last general election in 2023.

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.
Family members have identified the dean of the Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology as the woman who was killed when a gunman opened fire on the Inglewood campus.

Dr. Cameisha Clark, 35, was working in her office on May 2 when the male suspect entered the building and began firing.

He struck two people in the office  Clark and her receptionist, a woman whose identity has not been released. The gunman fled the scene shortly after as the campus was locked down and police began searching for him.

Cameisha Clark, 35, is seen in a photo provided by her family. Cameisha Clark, 35, is seen in a photo provided by her family. Cameisha Clark, 35, is seen in a photo provided by her family. A man in a vehicle that matched the shooting suspects description was taken into custody in the Pico-Union neighborhood on May 2, 2025. (KTLA) The suspect, Jesse Figueroa, 40, of Monterey Park, was charged with murder and attempted murder following a shooting at the Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology in Inglewood on May 2, 2025. (Jesse Figueroa) Two people were hospitalized after a shooter opened fire at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology in Inglewood on May 2, 2025. (KTLA) Two people were hospitalized after a shooter opened fire at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology in Inglewood on May 2, 2025. (KTLA) Two people were hospitalized after a shooter opened fire at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology in Inglewood on May 2, 2025. (KTLA) Two people were hospitalized after a shooter opened fire at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology in Inglewood on May 2, 2025. (KTLA)

The two women were rushed to the hospital in critical condition. Clark later died from her injuries. The second victim remains hospitalized in stable condition.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The suspect, Jesse Figueroa, 40, of Monterey Park, was later found on the 1100 block of Berendo Street after officers spotted his vehicle and pulled him over.

Figueroa was employed by Spartan College as a security guard. He had only worked at the technical college for two months, according to Inglewood Mayor James Butts.

A suspect is taken into custody after a shooting at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology on May 2, 2025. (KTLA) A man in a vehicle that matched the shooting suspects description was taken into custody in the Pico-Union neighborhood on May 2, 2025. (KTLA) A man in a vehicle that matched the shooting suspects description was taken into custody in the Pico-Union neighborhood on May 2, 2025. (KTLA) A man in a vehicle that matched the shooting suspects description was taken into custody in the Pico-Union neighborhood on May 2, 2025. (KTLA) A man in a dark-colored BMW sedan that matched the shooting suspects description was taken into custody in the Pico-Union neighborhood on May 2, 2025. (KTLA) A man in a vehicle that matched the shooting suspects description was taken into custody in the Pico-Union neighborhood on May 2, 2025. (KTLA) A man in a vehicle that matched the shooting suspects description was taken into custody in the Pico-Union neighborhood on May 2, 2025. (KTLA) A man in a vehicle that matched the shooting suspects description was taken into custody in the Pico-Union neighborhood on May 2, 2025. (KTLA) Jesse Figueroa, the suspect in a shooting at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology, is taken into custody in the Pico-Union neighborhood on May 2, 2025. (KTLA)

On Friday, Figueroa was charged by the Los Angeles County District Attorney with one felony count of murder, one felony count of attempted murder, one felony count of possession of a firearm with prior violent convictions, and one felony count of possession of a firearm by a felon with prior convictions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The motive behind the deadly shooting remains unclear.

Clark was described by her loved ones as a compassionate woman who was dedicated to helping students.

We are beyond devastated, her family said. Cameishas life was taken from us far too soon, in an act of senseless violence that no woman should ever have to endure. She was an amazing person who didnt deserve this. She was living her best life, doing the work she loved.

Clark grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, and graduated from Clark Atlanta University, where she earned her Bachelors degree, a Masters degree and a doctorate in education.

Her family said they want justice for her death and for the suspect to face the consequences he deserves.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Any student, faculty member or employee should feel safe and secure going to school, said L.A. County District Attorney Nathan Hochman. This horrific act of gun violence has shaken Spartan College and our entire community.

Hochman said Figueroa is a convicted felon who was not legally allowed to possess a firearm. He is charged with several gun sentencing enhancements.

Our hearts go out to the family and this should never have happened, said Butts. Its a terrible instance of workplace violence. Its a tragedy for the school, for the family. Two wonderful people so viciously harmed.

Figueroa was scheduled to be arraigned on Tuesday. If convicted as charged, he faces life in prison. He is being held on $5 million bail. An arraignment hearing is scheduled for May 29.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV)  The Savannah Police Department invites the community to join them in honoring fallen officers at the annual Police Memorial on Wednesday, May 14 at 10 a.m. The ceremony will be held at the Police Officers Memorial at the corner of Oglethorpe Avenue and Habersham Street in Savannah.

This special event is an opportunity for the community to remember and pay tribute to the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The ceremony, which will include speeches, the placing of roses and a wreath-laying, will reflect on their service, dedication and commitment to keeping our city safe.

Free parking and a shuttle will be available at the Savannah Civic Center to transport attendees to the memorial.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
BLUFTON, S.C. (WSAV)  On Tuesday, the Bluffton Township Fire District Board of Commissioners convened a special meeting to address personnel matters.

The Board voted to enter into an Executive Session under South Carolina Code Section 30-4-70(A)(1), which permits discussion of employment-related matters.

Following the Executive Session, the Board returned to open session and unanimously

approved the following motions concerning the position of the Districts Fire Chief:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To advertise for the position of Bluffton Township Fire Chief effective immediately

To direct the Interim Fire Chief to research external recruitment firms for the Boards

evaluation and potential engagement

This marks the official beginning of the selection process for the Fire Districts next permanent Fire Chief.

Interim Fire Chief Derek Church expressed his commitment to the department and the

community stating, Bluffton has been my home for more than 30 years. Its where Ive lived, worked and raised my family. I am committed to ensuring our community continues to receive the same high level of professionalism, dedication and service that our citizens have come to expect from the men and women of this Fire District.

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.
The mother of a Ukrainian defender freed from Russian captivity on 6 May was rushing to reunite with her son and accidentally exceeded the speed limit.

Source: Ukrainska Pravda. Zhyttia (Life)

Details: The police stopped her, but upon learning the heartfelt reason for her rush, they let her go without issuing a fine. She later shared the story with Radio Liberty journalists.

The journalists also captured a touching moment when another freed Ukrainian soldier was welcomed by his sisters, who greeted him with a cake and a lit candle to celebrate his birthday.

Background:

On 6 May 2025, Kyiv and Moscow carried out their 64th prisoner-of-war swap, during which 205 Ukrainian defenders were brought back home.

Those released are soldiers from the Navy, Air Force, Air Assault Forces, Territorial Defence Forces, National Guard and State Border Guard Service.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
The aerial photo taken on May 6, 2025 shows the Gabal oil field in Sirnak, Turkiye. Turkiye is intensifying its efforts to cut its energy import bill and enhance energy security, announcing record-high oil production and setting ambitious targets for natural gas output, experts said. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua)

ANKARA, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Turkiye is intensifying its efforts to cut its energy import bill and enhance energy security, announcing record-high oil production and setting ambitious targets for natural gas output, experts said.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said last week the country's oil production had reached a record level of over 135,000 barrels per day (bpd) by the end of March, while natural gas developments in the Black Sea could transform Turkiye into a regional energy hub.

When speaking at the Istanbul Natural Resources Summit, Erdogan emphasized that his country is aiming not only for self-sufficiency but also for a greater role in the global energy landscape.

Analysts said Turkiye is pursuing a comprehensive energy strategy that combines domestic resource development with international partnerships and infrastructure expansion to reduce oil and gas imports.

"Turkiye's energy outlook has shifted dramatically in the past five years," Ayse Demir, an analyst at Eurasia Energy in capital Ankara, told Xinhua.

"This is no longer about piecemeal projects. It's about a coordinated national push, from oil and gas to renewables and storage. The government sees energy as central to its geopolitical and economic standing," she said.

While oil production has increased significantly across various regions, natural gas is also undergoing transformative change.

The Sakarya gas field in the Black Sea, discovered in 2020, is already producing 7.5 million cubic meters of gas daily. The government aims to boost output to 20 million cubic meters by 2026 and reach 40 million by 2028.

A floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) facility is under construction and set to become operational by next year.

"Sakarya is a major component in Turkiye's energy ambitions," said Mehmet Kaya, an Istanbul-based independent energy consultant.

"It's not just about gas; it's about the experience Turkiye gains in offshore development, deepwater logistics, and managing complex supply chains," he told Xinhua.

Ankara's energy push is also bolstered by its growing network of international partnerships concluded in recent years with countries such as Senegal. These efforts are seen as part of Turkiye's broader strategy to diversify its energy sources and reduce reliance on Russian imports.

"Turkiye is trying to insulate itself from geopolitical risk in energy. Long-term LNG (Liquid Natural Gas) contracts, especially with non-Russian suppliers, help achieve that," Demir pointed out.

This analyst said that Turkiye's energy bill is still significant but is expected to decrease notably in the coming decade. In the first quarter of 2025, Turkiye's imported energy bill amounted to 18 billion U.S. dollars, according to official data released in early May.

Meanwhile, energy security is being reinforced by investments in storage. The Silivri gas storage facility near Istanbul, already the largest in Europe, is being expanded from 4.6 billion to 5.6 billion cubic meters.

The Lake Tuz underground storage site in central Turkiye is on track to reach a capacity of 8.8 billion cubic meters by 2028, to boost Turkiye's green and low-carbon transformation.

"These projects are crucial for winter supply management and market stability," Kaya said, adding "storage is the silent backbone of any sustainable energy system."

Ankara's nuclear energy ambitions are also making progress. The Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, being built in partnership with Russia's Rosatom in southern Turkiye, is expected to start generating electricity from its first reactor in 2026.

Turkiye's energy strategy also extends beyond its borders as well. In late 2024, a Turkish seismic research vessel began offshore drilling off the coast of Somalia, following a bilateral energy cooperation agreement. Other explorations are planned in Libya and Senegal.

"Turkiye wants to be more than just a consumer, it wants to be a regional hub," Kaya added. 

The aerial photo taken on May 6, 2025 shows the Gabal oil field in Sirnak, Turkiye. Turkiye is intensifying its efforts to cut its energy import bill and enhance energy security, announcing record-high oil production and setting ambitious targets for natural gas output, experts said. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua)
HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW)  The sister of a man shot and killed in a 2023 road rage confrontation along a rural Horry County road on Tuesday asked Gov. Henry McMaster to appoint a special prosecutor for an independent review of the case.

Jennifer Spivey Foleys request comes after two long-time Horry County Police Department officers connected to Scott Spiveys death investigation have left the agency: One resigned amid a probe by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and the other was terminated.

3 Horry County police officers facing disciplinary action in Spivey case, chief says

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We will continue to fight for justice, Foley said. That is the price we pay for loving Scott. We will not stop until all the acts of these officers and anyone else involved is held accountable. All we ever wanted is the truth.

Members of Horry Countys legislative delegation have asked McMaster to intervene, following a request last month by county leaders, who called on both the governor and SLED to reopen Spiveys case.

While we have the utmost respect for the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division and Horry County Police Department, many of our constituents believe the incident was prematurely deemed self-defense, a letter signed by state Rep. Lucas Atkinson, Case Brittain, Heather Ammons Crawford and Kevin Hardee says.

The letter was also signed by state Reps. Jackie Hayes, Tim McGinnis, Carla Schuessler, Carl Anderson, and Val Guest.

News13 talked to McMaster on Wednesday at the Myrtle Beach Classic PGO golf tournament and asked him about SLEDs role in the case and whether the case has been mishandled. The agency is currently investigating possible misconduct in HCPD, but not Spiveys death.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I think it certainly raises a lot of questions that need to be answered, he said. People are, people are very interested. Its a frightful situation, a mans dead, and the circumstances, according to the news articles, raise a lot of questions. But thats why we have good law enforcement, and SLED is as good a state law enforcement division as any in the country, probably better.

In most cases, McMaster said that once a local law enforcement agency ends an investigation, another agency is reluctant to come in afterwards and try to gather the same evidence after its already been moved and otherwise handled.

McMasters office told News13 last month that his office was waiting for SLED to wrap up its misconduct investigation.

Horry County Police Chief Kris Leonhardt on March 13 asked the FBI and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division to review evidence in the death of Spivey, who was shot and killed by North Myrtle Beach businessman Weldon Boyd in the Camp Swamp Road area.

Authorities said Paul Damon Vescovi was terminated for conduct unbecoming of an officer and a violation of general Horry County employee conduct guidelines.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mark Tinsley, Foleys attorney, told News13 in a statement last week that journalist Beth Braden noticed a notepad in a video from Vescovis body camera that read act like a victim camera and gave it to Tinsley, who then passed it on to SLED.

Horry County Police Chief Kris Leonhardt and Jennifer Spivey Foley

Phone call recordings obtained by News13 revealed conversations after the Camp Swamp Road incident between Strickland and Boyd, who were friends before the shooting.

Police reports indicate that Spivey tried to run Boyd and his passenger off Highway 9 in Loris, and brake-checked the two several times. That led to a shootout once they turned onto Camp Swamp Road. It was later determined that Boyd shot Spivey in self-defense, and he was not charged.

Stricklands attorney, Bert Von Herrmann, has denied any wrongdoing by his client in the aftermath of the incident.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You were taken care of: Spiveys sister shares phone call made minutes after deadly 2023 shootout

With all the evidence available to the public now, I hope everyone realizes theres no rug left to sweep anything under, Foley said Tuesday.

A timeline in question

Horry County investigators gathered more than 650 photos along with DNA and ballistics evidence over the course of a multi-day probe following the deadly shootout near Loris.

It was just after 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 9, 2023, at the intersection of Camp Swamp Road and Highway 9 in Loris, and the 33-year-old Tabor City resident was slumped over deceased in his truck. Less than an hour earlier, he was at a North Myrtle Beach bar.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By 11 p.m. on the night of the shooting, police had a search warrant for Spiveys black 2021 Chevy Silverado pickup truck. Two days later, an Horry County detective had access to a white 2022 Dodge Ram belonging to Boyd, who by that point had admitted to killing Spivey in self-defense. Boyd and Williams were traveling together.

By about 2:10 a.m. on Sept. 10, and only hours after the shooting, investigators had already determined via multiple witness interviews, accident reconstruction, and 911 calls that Boyd had acted reasonably.

Between Sept. 9 and Sept. 13, officials took more than 650 photos at the scene or at the Horry County police impound lot and forensics laboratory. They also collected DNA samples, tire-track imprints and performed a ballistic analysis.

The Horry County Coroners Office ruled Spiveys death a homicide at the time, but didnt publicly announce that determination until recently, on April 24.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We repeatedly asked about the relationship between Horry County Police Department and the shooters, and were dismissed every single time, Foley said Tuesday. We were lied to when we were told there was no evidence to warrant prosecution.

A question of balance

For his part, Boyd says hes ready and willing to cooperate with authorities  posting a lengthy statement to his businesss Facebook page last month.

I have been very outspoken and critical of numerous of our public officials. For this, numerous elected and appointed officials have sought to interfere with the investigation, Boyd wrote. A more constructive inquiry of the public officials is  why the heck did it take so long to get officers to one of the busiest traffic corridors in Horry County?

In his Facebook post, Boyd said he and Williams were victims of an aggressive criminal, and that his first encounter with Spivey was when he had a gun pointed at Williams head.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The state Attorney Generals Office last April declined to prosecute Boyd because of insufficient evidence. That decision came after 15th Circuit Solicitor Jimmy Richardson asked the agency to assist Horry County Police following a social media post by Boyd days after his confrontation, thanking authorities for their work.

We will continue to advocate for Scotts case to be reopened with a thorough investigation by an honest prosecutor who is willing to examine all of the evidence, Foley said.

Horry County Councilman Danny Hardee on Tuesday also urged state Attorney General Alan Wilson to act.

I dont know what the AG needs, Hardee said. I dont know if he needs you to get on your knees and beg, hug his neck or whatever but my opinion is if the AG doesnt give you an answer or direction, Id highly advise him not to politic in Horry County.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

News13 also stopped Horry County Council chairman Johnny Gardner after the meeting. Below is the exchange he had between with News13 reporter Adrianna Lawrence.

Lawrence: So what needs to be done at this point, then?

Gardner: Well, Horry County cant do anything. Weve done everything that we can do. Weve done it properly. Weve referred it out properly. Weve asked for the investigation properly, and were just waiting.

News13 has reached out to the AGs office for comment and is waiting to hear back.

Foley said shes fighting not only for her family, but other families that this could happen to.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To find out that none of it was looked at, I mean, its heartbreaking, Foley said. Because I mean, it could be your brother, it could be your cousin, it could be your best friend. Its not just my family. If this is happening to my family, who else is that happening to? Who else is it going to happen to?

* * *

Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here.

* * *

Adrianna Lawrence is a multimedia journalist at News13. Adrianna is originally from Virginia Beach, Virginia, and joined the News13 team in June 2023 after graduating from Virginia Commonwealth University in May 2023. Keep up with Adrianna on Instagram, Facebook, and X, formerly Twitter. You can also read more of her 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 WBTW.
(NewsNation)  A former Florida clemency board member is calling for the release of Michael Edwards, who has served 31 years of a 60-year sentence for selling a small amount of cocaine.

Nikki Fried, who served as Floridas Commissioner of Agriculture from 2019 to 2023 and sat on the states four-person Board of Executive Clemency, described Edwards continued imprisonment as a travesty of justice during a Tuesday interview on NewsNations Banfield.

Justice has been served way past served, Fried said. This is not a violent person.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

FL man serving 60 years for spoonful of cocaine petitions for release

Edwards was sentenced in 1993 after being convicted of selling what was described as a spoonful of cocaine to an ex-girlfriend who was working as a police informant. The sentence resulted from Floridas three strikes law, as it was Edwards third nonviolent drug offense.

The 60-year sentence with no possibility of parole would keep Edwards imprisoned until 2037, when he would be 74 years old, resulting in a total of 43 years behind bars.

Joe DAlessandro, the former state attorney whose office prosecuted Edwards, supports clemency.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Never in my entire career have I looked to reverse anything that I have done, except for Michael Edwards case, DAlessandro said, pleading for Edwards release.

Potential jurors tossed from Diddy trial after watching Cassie video

Despite recommendations from the clemency board, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis declined to grant clemency, stating, Im not inclined at this time.

Edwards has been described as a model prisoner during his incarceration and has already reduced his original sentence through good behavior.

Fried explained that for Edwards to receive another chance at clemency, his family would need to file another petition and a clemency board member would need to invoke Rule 17 to expedite the case, bypassing a yearslong backlog in Floridas clemency system.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Good morning on this Wednesday, May 7. First Alert Chief Meteorologist Mike Buresh is tracking increasingly wet weather into Mothers Day weekend. Listen to the All the Weather, All the Time podcast.

SPOTLIGHT: E-bike safety is in focus in St. Johns County following recent serious injury accidents involving kids. The Board of County Commissioners is in early discussion of an ordinance that could put new regulations in place. We are shining the spotlight on enforcement of existing laws with an in-depth conversation with the St. Johns County Sheriffs Office.

Three Big Things to Know:

Fears the city could lose out on the largest one-time award of federal dollars in Jacksonvilles history. The $147 million grant is intended to help fund the completion of the Emerald Trail.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Professional, not personal. Duval County Public School Board Members voted unanimously to implement new policies for teachers and student interactions. Under the revised policy, employees will be required to use only district-approved communication tools, and students and employees will not be alone without administrations approval, and more.

The bear dubbed Paws De Leon appears to have moved on from his exploration of Downtown St. Augustine.

PODCAST: Jimmy Failla joined us at 8:20 am with thoughts on the Trump/Carney meeting at the White House, Canadian superstar name drops, shock collars, and more. Hear Jimmy every Wednesday morning live, and every weeknight from 6:00 - 9:00 pm on 104.5 WOKV.
SPOTSYLVANIA COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now)  Spotsylvania County Public Schools (SCPS) is mourning the loss of an 18-year-old student who was shot and killed during what law enforcement is investigating as a reported burglary over the weekend.

In a letter addressed to the Massaponax High School community on May 3, Principal Dr. Williams Lancaster announced that senior Michael Bosworth, Jr. had passed away. This was the same day as the prom.

Lancaster noted that counseling staff and members from the support team were available for students at the prom and at the beginning of the school week.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

18-year-old killed during burglary, Spotsylvania County deputies say

We have reached out to the students family to provide support. As a parent/guardian, it is always difficult to know how to answer questions about grief and loss, wrote Lancaster.

He added that children respond differently depending on the relationship they had with Bosworth. Lancaster wrote that the best thing to do is to listen to your child and let them lead the discussion.

The principal said that if your child needs support, contact the school.

RELATED STORY | Man charged for shooting, killing teenager during burglary, Spotsylvania County deputies say

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The shooting happened during the early morning hours of Saturday, May 3.

According to the Spotsylvania County Sheriffs Office, the call came in around 3 a.m. for a burglary in progress at a home near McKenzie Lane, where a resident had fired shots.

Upon arrival, deputies found three teenagers, with two suffering from gunshot wounds. Both teens were taken to the hospital; however, Bosworth died from his injuries.

In an update on Tuesday, the sheriffs office announced that Tyler Chase Butler, 27, was arrested and charged with murder in the second degree, malicious wounding and two counts of use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
SPRINGFIELD  Concerns a leaking roof would cause more deterioration to the historic Paramount Theater and Massasoit House convinced members of the Community Preservation Committee to act on a request to help fund repairs.

Initially, the application for a $300,000 grant from the new owners of the theater generated a lukewarm interest from the committee, but presentations from applicants and discussions about the requests changed some members minds, said Robert McCarroll, chairman of the committee.

In its Tuesday meeting, the Community Preservation Committee voted to recommend funding for 13 applications totaling $2.5 million. Included on the list was the $300,000 recommendation for the Paramount and Massasoit House, parts of which date to 1843.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Paramount (application) was on the top of my list. I think we have to do triage on some of the historic buildings," McCarroll said. Clearly we dont want the building to become more deteriorated and water is not a good thing for historic buildings.

In its first round of recommendations, the committee approved funding to help replace multiple roofs, including for a church, for the same reason, he said.

This is the eighth year of funding applications since the city voted to accept the Community Preservation Act and place a 1.5% surcharge on city taxes that is used for housing, open space, recreation and historic preservation.

The committee, which receives applications and makes funding recommendations, received 35 requests that totaled $8 million. Since the tax generated about $3 million this year, it will have to say no to some of the asks, McCarroll said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The committee still has about $957,000 in remaining funds to recommend. It will continue to prioritize applications in upcoming meetings and hopes to bring all the recommendations to the City Council in June, McCarroll said.

The City Council will have the final say in approving the applications. It has only rejected two in the eight years, however, and only because there were legal questions about both, McCarroll said.

The Paramount has been closed for more than a decade. Just one storefront in the complex along Main Street is now occupied. The property was purchased nine months ago by Mohan Sachdev, owner of Sachdev Real Estate Development of Suffield, Connecticut, for $750,000 from the New England Farm Workers Council.

Owners soon found the council never finished a project to repair the roof so water pours into the interior of the building every time it rains. The cost of the roof repairs alone is $1.2 million.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sachdev could not be reached for comment.

I was super excited they did approve it. The Paramount is a very important building and one we want to see preserved, said Erica Swallow, president of the Springfield Preservation Trust.

The Springfield Preservation Trust placed the Paramount and Massasoit on its list of most endangered historic resources in August.

The committee also approved the Springfield Preservation Trusts application for $300,000 to stabilize the historic building at 7-9 Stockbridge St., which is the second-oldest commercial building in the city.

Initial estimates show the trust will need at least $1.2 million to renovate the long-vacant building on Stockbridge Street, but the trust has now commissioned a more in-depth financial study of the building.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is critical funding for us, Swallow said, of the Community Preservation Act funding.

more news from Western Massachusetts

Read the original article on MassLive.
ST. LOUIS  A St. Louis County woman appeared in federal court Tuesday to be sentenced for producing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) involving a toddler.

Prosecutors with the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Missouri said Raven A. Pointer, 27, pleaded guilty in October 2024 to one count of production of child pornography.

Pointer admitted coercing the toddler in 2022 into engaging in sexual conduct and using her phone to produce videos involving the child on six different occasions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In August 2023, agents with the Department of Homeland Security learned that a man in Montgomery, Alabama, was distributing child sexual abuse material. Agents learned he had also been communicating with a woman, later identified as Pointer.

Man claims he crashed stolen car to rid it of a demon

Phone records later confirmed he received a video from Pointer that contained child sexual abuse materials. Investigators matched details in the videos to her and the location where the videos had been filmed.

Following her arrest, prosecutors said Pointer attempted to contact the victim and berated the victims father for seeking restitution in the case.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A U.S. District Court judge sentenced Pointer to 25 years in federal prison and ordered her to pay $15,000 in restitution. Upon her release, Pointer will be on supervised release for the remainder of her life.

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.
Both St. Paul and the state of Minnesota made strides in graduation rates in 2024, with St. Paul schools reversing declines and further closing gaps across several demographics.

The percentage of students graduating in four years in St. Paul was 76.5% in 2024, an increase that follows three consecutive years of declines in the districts four-year graduation rate.

St. Pauls graduation rate in 2023 did not include all summer graduates due to a technical error, St. Paul Public Schools officials said at the time. Though the districts graduation rate still improved this year even when accounting for that difference.

Achievement gaps for SPPS

Almost all student groups in the district increased their four-year graduation rate compared to 2023, according to SPPS.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This includes students receiving special education services, Asian, Black and white students and those students who qualify for free or reduced-price meals.

The largest jumps in the district were for English language learners who went from a graduation rate of 54.8% last year to 67.4% in 2024, according to state data. Hispanic students went from a 2023 graduation rate of 53.8% to a rate of 66.4%.

When including summer graduates in 2023 data, both groups still saw graduation rate increases.

Despite the gains, most groups still have lower graduation rates than they did in the graduation year of 2022 when the district saw significant drops going from 2022 to 2023 across multiple groups.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

American Indian students went from 49.4% graduating in 2023 to 47% in 2024. They had the largest drop from 2022 to 2023 with their graduation rate at 62% in 2022.

Asian students went from 75.2% in 2023 to 83.5% in 2024; Black students went from 58.8% to 69.2%; Hispanic students went from 53.8% to 66.4%; students of two or more races went from 75% to 76.1% and white students went from 80.4% to 86.8%, according to the district.

There are several factors that contributed to the decline in the graduation rate going from 2022 to 2023, according to district officials.

The class of 2023 had a larger number of students dropping out compared to 2022 and a larger number of students whose final status with the district is unknown. Attendance also has declined across all student groups since the COVID-19 pandemic, especially among student groups with lower four-year graduation rates, according to district officials.

Improvement efforts

District officials attribute increased student achievement to several practices which include:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 Fair and equitable grading practices along with teacher and student support which have improved passing rates.

 Expanding and enhancing 9th grade academic support courses in its high schools.

 Expanding access to internships, industry-recognized certifications, work-based learning experiences and partnerships providing real-world learning applications.

 Implementing daily advisory classes to help with student engagement and positive relationship building among students by providing academic and post-secondary support and preparation.

 Offering credit recovery options, including after school, online and experiential learning programs to help students graduate.

Related Articles
St. Pauls graduation rate went up in 2024, bringing it to pre-pandemic levels, while the state overall notched its highest rate.

Graduation rates went up among multiple student demographics in 2024, with 84.2% of Minnesota high school seniors graduating in four years, according to the state Department of Education.

The percentage of students graduating in four years in St. Paul was 76.5%, compared to 68.4% in 2023 and 76.3% in 2019. The increase follows three consecutive years of declines in the districts four-year graduation rate. The year 2024s graduating class began 9th grade in distance learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

St. Pauls graduation rate in 2023 did not include all summer graduates due to a technical error, officials said at the time. With those graduates included, the districts graduation rate in 2023 was closer to 73.4%, according to the district.

Despite several districts reporting technical errors impacting their graduation data last year, state officials said graduation rates still increased in 2024, even when accounting for those differences.

I am proud of our 2024 graduates and of our teachers, principals and many other staff who have worked diligently to support students in reaching this important milestone, said SPPS Interim Superintendent John Thein in a statement. To see the districts graduation rate return to 2019 levels, and to increase significantly for many student groups, is a testament to the high-quality education that students and families should expect from Saint Paul Public Schools.

Other metro districts

Meanwhile, Minneapolis Public Schools saw its four-year graduation rate go up from 67.8% to 73.8%, or six percentage points. The district had a graduation rate of 76.7% in 2022.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, Minneapolis school officials last year put its graduation rate drop from 2022 to 2023 at a smaller number due to what officials said was a technical error that excluded summer graduations in 2023.

In the Anoka-Hennepin School District, the states largest district with more than 38,000 students, the graduation rate decreased slightly from the previous year, going from 86.7% to 85.6%.

The graduation rate for Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Schools  typically the states fourth-largest district with around 29,000 students  continued to increase, going from 87.7% in 2023 to 88.13% in 2024.

Statewide rates

Statewide in 2024, Minnesota had its highest graduation rate with a total of 59,720 students receiving diplomas. The graduation rate in 2023 was 83.3%, a slight drop from 2022.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The students of the Class of 2024 worked hard and overcame challenges to achieve this milestone, said state Education Commissioner Willie Jett in a statement. I am thrilled to see the success of many of our student groups  especially those most at risk  and a closing of the achievement gap as we work to make sure every student, of every background, zip code and ability has access to a world-class education. I am also grateful for the educators, families and communities who stood behind these graduates and supported their needs and encouraged their successes.

Graduation rates went up across multiple demographics, including among students who are American Indian, Asian, Black, Hispanic or Latino and white. Rates also increased for English learners, students from low-income families and students receiving special-education services.

The largest gains were among English learners with a graduation rate of 67.25%, or an increase of 3.9%, compared to last year; and Asian students with a graduation rate of 88.05%, or an increase of 2.7%, compared to last year.

These successes, in part, are possible because of long-standing partnerships between school communities, the Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Education. Support for Minnesotas most vulnerable student groups are at risk as changes in the federal education landscape uproots supports that are designed to ensure equal education access for all students, Jett said Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite changes at the federal level, including President Donald Trumps order to eliminate the U.S. Education Department, the state Department of Education will continue its work, Jett said.

Our most vulnerable students are on the right track, Jett said. So now is not the time to interrupt all the important work being done to close achievement gaps. And so to Minnesota families, students and educators, I want to say clearly that the department of education here in Minnesota, were still here and were not going anywhere.

Related Articles
SALLISAW, Okla. (KNWA/KFTA)  A judge in Sequoyah County ruled today that Stacy Lee Drake will stand trial for three Oklahoma murders.

After the second day of a preliminary trial, the judge has determined that Drake will stand trial for the murders of Phillip Emerson, Tara Underwood and Taylor Sharp in Oklahoma. Drake is also accused of murdering one person in Alabama.

In Tuesdays preliminary trial, the judge called 10 witnesses to the stand who helped them make this ruling.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During their investigation, officers found multiple identifying documents of both Underwood and Sharp at the campsite where Drake was arrested in Morrilton, Arkansas.

Witnesses testify in Sequoyah County court in preliminary murder trial for Stacy Lee Drake

Those documents included Tara Underwoods Cherokee Nation identification card as well as her Arkansas drivers license. Officers also found a CDL license belonging to Taylor Sharp.

Investigators also found a tablet near an Oklahoma campsite where Drake allegedly spent time at.

A deep dive into the tablet revealed searches for YouTube videos called One hundred greatest one-liners before the kill and One hundred greatest one-liners after the kill.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Stacy Lee Drake will be tried for three counts of first-degree murder with deliberate intent, three counts of robbery with a dangerous weapon, one count of possession of a stolen vehicle and one count of pattern of criminal offenses.

Drakes trial will begin on July 7.

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.
Note: District 2 Virginia Beach School Board member Kim Melnyks last name was misspelled in the above video.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY)  The Virginia Beach School Boards original decision to suspend diversity, equity and inclusion programs in the citys public schools will stand after a vote Tuesday to amend that resolution resulted in a stalemate.

VB board adopts resolution to suspend DEI initiatives

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The vote to amend the April 8 resolution to suspend DEI initiatives in the citys public schools was 5-5, with one board member, District 8s David Culpepper, absent.

After this evenings special school board meeting, I am more affirmed that our community will have a much better understanding of what is happening in our schools by joining me tomorrow evening, said District 5 board member Melinda Rogers in a Facebook post.

Rogers is taking part in a DEI town hall meeting from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Princess Anne Middle School at 2509 Seaboard Road in Virginia Beach. She said she has a presentation prepared and would be discussing DEI in schools and taking questions.

Board members did not have an answer on what programs or curriculum would be impacted by the boards original decision to suspend DEI programs as they await further guidance from federal courts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The original vote to suspend DEI initiatives in the citys public schools was 6-3 in favor. It came after the Trump administrations Jan. 29 executive order to cut federal education funding for schools that refuse to drop DEI programs. On April 3, K-12 schools throughout the country received a notice stating they had just 10 days to certify they will comply with the executive order.

Lets keep the main thing the main thing, said District 6 board member Michael Callan. And the main thing is a solid education, preparing them for the difficulties that life will bring.

Its a decision dividing staffers, students and parents.

The adopted resolution states that it is to comply with legal obligations in exchange for receiving federal financial assistance. In the meeting, School Board Chairwoman Kathleen J. Brown said Virginia Beach City Public Schools gets $74,285,975 in federal funding.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

District 7 School Board member Matt W. Cummings asked at the last board meeting how suspending the policy would impact the curriculum, particularly at Tallwood High Schools Global Studies and World Languages Academy, which has a number of events celebrating cross-cultural awareness and celebrating diversity.

District 2 Board member Kim Melnyk said the executive order may affect things in the school division, and shes seeking clarity on what it will mean for the divisions schools.

This executive order may affect things, Melnyk said. And thats what Im worried about, and I want clear direction for our school division. Were the fourth-largest school division in the Commonwealth of Virginia and we have a very large community who deserves the answers and the directions. They need to know what were doing.

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.
ST. PETERSBURG, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The coordination between Russia and China, two major countries of the world, has injected momentum into building a multipolar world order, said a Russian expert.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victories of the Great Patriotic War of the Soviet Union, the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, and the shared historical memory remains deeply meaningful for both peoples, said Alexey Rodionov, a professor of Chinese studies at St. Petersburg State University, in an interview with Xinhua.

In the hearts of the Russian people, he said, the memory of victory in World War II serves as a source of unity in the face of modern-day challenges.

"The victory of our elder generations lives within us," he said. "It gives us strength and guides our way forward."

He also highlighted China's role as a key member of the anti-fascist alliance, noting that the Chinese people had made a significant contribution to the global victory over fascism in World War II.

The Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression was a long and arduous struggle, marked by the Chinese people's unwavering determination to resist and ultimately defeat the invaders, he said.

Currently Russia-China relations have reached an unprecedented level, with significant potential for expanded cooperation across multiple fields, said the scholar.

He pointed out that the world is shifting irreversibly toward a multipolar order, with Russia and China playing essential roles as pillars of this transformation.

Rodionov said that China maintains a balanced stance on international issues, which is why more countries now regard the country as a key reference point in diplomacy and global policy. 
May 6BEMIDJI  All community members and area businesses are invited to participate in the annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive on Saturday, May 10.

Sponsored by the National Association of Letter Carriers and

United Way of Bemidji Area,

the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive will benefit the Bemidji Community Food Shelf.

Community members are asked to simply leave a sturdy bag containing non-perishable, non-expired canned or boxed items, such as baby food, peanut butter, soups, cereals, laundry soap, dish soap, deodorant, personal care items and such, next to their mailbox prior to the time of regular mail delivery on Saturday, May 10.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Donated items should be packaged in non-breakable containers. Letter carriers will collect the donations and deliver them to the Bemidji Community Food Shelf.

In addition to the one-day food collection by the Post Office, collection boxes are available to accept your donations at the downtown Post Office lobby and Raphael's Bakery all week for early drop-offs.

For more information, contact the Bemidji Post Office at

(218) 751-1059

or the United Way of Bemidji Area at

(218) 444-8929.
Sir Keir Starmers backward-looking European Union reset will put a US trade deal at risk, a report has warned.

Research co-authored by a former government adviser on trade warns the Prime Ministers bid to achieve closer ties with Brussels will come at the expense of relations with the White House.

It is feared that aligning more closely with the EU on trade, carbon pricing and food and veterinary standards could endanger ongoing talks with the US.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The report has been written by Catherine McBride, who sat on the UKs Trade and Agriculture Commission, and Lady Elliott, a senior figure at the Prosperity Institute think tank.

Seizing Brexit opportunity

It says: There is growing concern in the UK that this global trade reset will lead to the Labour Government re-establishing closer relationships with the EU through regulatory realignment, rather than seizing the opportunity provided by Brexit and building a closer relationship with the USA, typified by lower trade barriers and regulatory mutual recognition.

Reverting to a closer trading relationship with the EU based on realignment as a response to the 10 per cent tariffs put in place on transatlantic UK-US trade would be backward-looking and economically harmful.

It is also increasingly clear that closer EU alignment could be to the detriment of British sovereignty and at the expense of other British industries such as fishing, which appears to be being conceded, yet again, in the emerging EU-UK security deal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sources have previously told The Telegraph that Donald Trump would prefer Britain to choose a closer relationship with either the US or the EU rather than align with both.

Sir Keir Starmer with Charles Michel, the European Council president - Benjamin Cremel/PA Wire

But the Prime Minister has repeatedly rejected this idea, insisting he will not be drawn into a false choice between strengthening ties with Mr Trump and resetting relations with the Continent.

The report goes on to note that the US is the UKs largest export market, while the UK is the USs largest market for services.

In the wake of the 10 per cent tariffs imposed globally by Mr Trump last month, the authors urge both countries to work towards eliminating all tariffs and quotas to unleash growth.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They go on to suggest mutual recognition of standards, regulators and legal systems to further boost the special relationship.

A further recommendation is that both the UK and the US diversify their supply chains to include new American manufacturers, who would be provided access to the British market.

Lady Elliott said: We should not pass up the chance to work with the Trump administration to lower trade barriers and foster mutual economic benefits, not only on digital and AI, but across all sectors.

Sir Keir Starmer met Donald Trump on a visit to Washington in February - Simon Dawson/No10 Downing Street

Plans being drawn up by the UK and the EU would involve signing Britain up to dynamic alignment with the EU on food and veterinary products.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While this would allow both countries to trade freely without border checks on such goods, it is feared that creating such close alignment with Brussels could destroy goodwill in Washington.

Mr Trump has been a long-standing critic of the EU, calling it a foe on trade and accusing the bloc of having raped and pillaged the US economy.

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.
Sir Keir Starmers failings and the rise of Nigel Farage prove Scotland needs another independence referendum, John Swinney has said.

The First Minister said Scottish voters were feeling disaffected and alienated after Labour told them before last years general election that they didnt need independence for their lives to improve.

Instead, he said, Sir Keir had let them down by stripping pensioners of their winter fuel payments, forcing families to pay higher energy bills and imposing a jobs tax on business by hiking employers National Insurance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a keynote speech marking a year until the May 2026 Holyrood election, Mr Swinney argued that the Prime Ministers record in office had also opened the door to Farage.

Mr Swinney said Labour had failed to stand up to the Reform UK leader, and was dancing to his tune on immigration.

Nigel Farages party Reform UK routed Labour and the Tories in last weeks local elections - Ian Forsyth/Getty Images

The SNP leader added: At Westminster, Nigel Farage may not be in office  but he is very much in power.

The First Minister claimed there was an ill wind of change blowing through UK politics that could see Mr Farage into 10 Downing Street, saying it should be a wake-up call for people across Scotland.

Citing last weeks local elections in England, in which Reform routed Labour and the Tories, Mr Swinney argued that the future of the UK is looking increasingly unrecognisable.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said it was up to the SNP to offer a brighter future for an independent Scotland, and the party was getting all of our ducks in a row to make this happen.

Mr Swinney argued the UK Government should allow another independence referendum if nationalist parties hold a majority of Holyroods seats after next years election.

Independence campaign

The First Minister later acknowledged he was relaunching the SNPs independence campaign, having said little on the issue since he succeeded Humza Yousaf a year ago.

He said his party had lost the right to be heard by the people of Scotland in the aftermath of last years general election, when it was bested by Labour, but that now was the right time to start a bigger debate about independence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But Russell Findlay, the Scottish Tory leader, said Mr Swinney was only talking up Reform, as Nigel Farages party would further split the unionist vote in next years election and help the SNP retain power.

Mr Findlay said John Swinneys dirty little secret was that he was thrilled by Mr Farage and wanted to help Reform succeed in Scotland.

Both Mr Findlay and Anas Sarwar, the Scottish Labour leader, accused the First Minister of using Mr Farage as a bogeyman to distract from his record.

Anas Sarwar, the Scottish Labour leader, described Nigel Farage as John Swinneys new power to replace the Tories - Ken Jack/2025 Ken Jack

Mr Swinney reignited the SNPs independence campaign as he, Mr Findlay and Mr Sarwar all gave keynote speeches to lay the ground for their Holyrood campaigns, a year from election day.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A series of polls have indicated the SNP is on course to win an unprecedented fifth term in office following a collapse in Labour support during the troubled early months of Sir Keirs premiership.

Speaking in Edinburgh in front of the SNPs candidates for Holyroods constituency seats, Mr Swinney said: For years, Labour told people in Scotland that they didnt need independence  we just needed to get rid of the Tories and everything will change.

No wonder so many people are feeling disaffected and alienated right now. The choice is to accept things as they are or to act differently.

What surer way to tackle alienation than with the overwhelming sense of empowerment of becoming an independent nation which is ours to create?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said the SNP could build a winning coalition for independence by demonstrating to Scots the purported benefits of leaving the UK.

Nationalists lost the 2014 independence referendum by almost 11 percentage points and the UK Government has blocked successive attempts by the SNP to secure a second vote.

But Mr Swinney said he wanted next years election to shift the tectonic plates of Scottish politics and create a wave of hope that will overcome Westminsters wall of despair.

He added: What Im determined to do is to make sure we get the significant SNP win that drives that agenda, and enables us to have a referendum on independence.

Reform a political bogeyman

Pressed on what the benchmark should be for another referendum to take place, Mr Swinney said a democratic majority in the Scottish Parliament. The three nationalist parties are the SNP, Greens and the Alba Party.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

His speech came the day after he unveiled his programme for government for the coming year, which included a pledge to publish a report on the economic benefits of independence.

But Mr Findlay said: If John Swinney spent as much time reforming public services as talking up Reform, Scotland might get somewhere. But thats too difficult for the SNP.

Nationalists always promote a political bogeyman instead of doing the hard work of good governance. And thats why John Swinney constantly talks up Nigel Farages Reform. Because a vote for Reform is a gift to the SNP.

Addressing an audience of Tory activists and MSPs in Edinburgh, Russell Findlay said: If John Swinney spent as much time reforming public services as talking up Reform, Scotland might get somewhere. - Jane Barlow/PA Wire

Addressing an audience of Tory activists and MSPs in Edinburgh, Mr Findlay said voters should not be surprised that the First Minister is about to waste more cash on his obsession with breaking up our country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Speaking in Glasgow, Mr Sarwar said: Instead of dealing with its own failures, John Swinney will recklessly talk up Nigel Farage.

Farage is John Swinneys new power to replace the Tories but, the truth is, I dont care about Nigel Farage, and Nigel Farage doesnt care about Scotland.

But Thomas Kerr, a Reform UK councillor, said: Let me be crystal clear: Reform UK is not here to prop up John Swinney.

Were here to replace the tired, failing parties that have propped each other up for years while Scotlands services crumbled and its people were told to make do with less.

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.
Peter Kyle, the Technology Secretary, recently set out clear guidelines for how Ofcom should implement the Online Safety Act, a welcome step towards responsible technology governance.

His words acknowledge a painful truth: as a society, we sleepwalked into the dominance of big tech during the social media era, and we are still trying to recover.

We must now learn the same lesson for another fast-moving frontier: the relationship between copyright and generative AI.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Concerning reports have emerged that the UK Government has met American tech giants with increasing frequency, eager to appear sympathetic to US interests as they try to negotiate a deal with Donald Trump.

However, if we are not careful, we will look back and ask ourselves how we allowed big US tech to amass even greater power at the expense of the UKs creative and innovation economy. We can no longer claim ignorance; the stakes are high.

Britain has lost many traditional industries and much of its manufacturing base.

Yet one sector where we remain a global leader is the creative industries. With film, TV, music, fashion, photography, art and literature, Britain has consistently punched above its weight.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Our creative success stems from a combination of world-class universities, pioneering entrepreneurs, and an innovative spirit that also underpins our globally recognised service industries such as finance, law and education, among others.

The UK has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to lead in AI. But the economic growth that the Government seeks will not come from a handful of global tech giants; it will come by empowering thousands of British businesses of all sizes, across all sectors, which harness AI to create high-quality services, applications and tools. Trust is the foundation for that growth.

Many large tech companies are contributing positively by investing in skills, supporting communities and engaging with the Online Safety Act. But goodwill and cooperation must not be confused with surrendering core principles.

British businesses are big techs customers, and just as retailers were challenged to ensure ethical supply chains, we have a right, and indeed a responsibility, to demand that the generative AI services provided to us are responsibly sourced.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some argue that relaxing copyright laws is necessary for generative AI companies to operate in the UK. This is neither accurate nor inevitable.

Britain is a vital, wealthy market. Businesses need customers, not the other way around. We should have confidence in our bargaining power and our tradition of standing up for what is right.

Were not alone in this stance: across the world, businesses and individuals are calling for guardrails to build a responsible AI industry, and the Government should recognise this direction of travel.

Others claim it is too late because data has already been scraped, and the models already trained. But history shows otherwise.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When music piracy threatened the music industry in the early 2000s, new models emerged to reward creators fairly. Innovation thrives when it is grounded in trust and fairness, and solutions are possible when we demand them.

At this pivotal moment, the Government faces a clear choice: is appeasing a handful of Trumps big tech allies worth the damage it would cause to British businesses? Do we protect the rights of UK creators and innovators, or do we give them away to a handful of global corporations?

As the trade body for the UKs emerging AI industry, UKAI firmly believes we must shape a future where individual creators, businesses and consumers are empowered, not undermined. Creators rights are not the Governments to give away.

Copyright is not a bureaucratic hurdle, it is how we protect creativity, innovation and economic value. It underpins the intellectual property that Britains businesses, including AI companies, rely on to compete, grow, drive innovation and attract investment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is deeply unhelpful for the Government to suggest the needs of creatives and AI companies are in conflict. In truth, they are partners. The AI sector depends on high-quality, trusted content and creativity, and the creative sector is embracing AI-powered tools to augment and accelerate their work.

Moreover, the public remains wary of AI, concerned about its impact on jobs, privacy, fraud and creative ownership. Undermining copyright only destroys the trust that our industry desperately needs to build. It would harm thousands of responsible British AI businesses striving to win new customers, create jobs and grow the economy.

Our members are large and small, tech and non-tech businesses which want to unlock the potential of AI to drive economic growth and social progress. This is why UKAI continues to call on the Government to reaffirm existing copyright laws, not to weaken them.

We urge policymakers to engage with innovative businesses that are actively developing solutions to improve transparency and enable licensing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Government deserves credit for its leadership on online safety. Now it has the opportunity, and the responsibility, to apply that same principled approach to copyright, even under pressure from Silicon Valley.

By making AI fair for creators and businesses alike, Britain can build a world-leading, responsible AI industry that earns the publics trust and delivers sustainable growth for decades to come.

We must learn from past mistakes and protect what makes Britain great. Lets build an AI industry founded on trust, fairness and ambition.

Tim Flagg is the chief executive of UKAI

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.
State auditors office investigates Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools finances

FORSYTH COUNTY, N.C. (WGHP)  Financial distress is how the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction characterized Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools following the 2024 audit.

FOX8 received a copy of the letter from State Auditor Dave Boliek that was sent to WS/FCS Superintendent Tricia McManus on April 21.

The letter states that the state auditors office will conduct an investigation of the school districts financial records.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the audit of 2024, the district is short $16 million.

The state auditors office used strong language in the letter, stating that anyone with any knowledge of fraud should come forward.

An investigation has been launched into the WS/FCS budget by the state of North Carolina.

In the letter, Boliek informed McManus that the school system is being audited, and it is centered around the districts financial records and transactions, including payroll and use of federal grants.

On May 1, the NCDoPI sent a letter to the district with a detailed breakdown showing the school system overspent by $16 million.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Where did that money go? Thats the question a newly hired financial firm is trying to answer for the district. The state is giving the school system until May 15 to get to the bottom of it.

Theres a lot on the line for the district. That May 1 letter says the district needs to make changes or face sanctions.

North Carolina Board of Education Chairwoman Deanna Kaplan was copied on that letter. She declined to answer questions or provide an interview.

She sent the following statement.

We are deeply concerned about the issues raised by the State. We want the community to know that the Board is committed to adopting and maintaining a balanced budget. We take this responsibility seriously. Being in good financial standing is something we are all committed to achieving. We will develop a plan to submit to the State Board of Education that will address the financial concerns as well as outline steps to mitigate future budget issues. North Carolina Board of Education Chairwoman Deanna Kaplan

Forsyth County Board of Commissioners Chairman Don Martin says he is hopeful the school system can figure it out.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Because never has the county had to bail out a school district in any situation, and Im really hoping thats not going to happen in any way this time, Martin said.

Martin said that he doesnt think this will impact the county receiving grants further down the road.

Doubtful that would be a limitation. Essentially, the district is a large organization that is stable aside from this one little blip at this point. I think that could be corrected and would not inhibit a federal reward in any kind of way, Martin said.

The school system said in an email that they are working with a financial firm to come up with a plan. Martin said he has been invited to sit in on the meeting next week to get a plan underway.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 FOX8 WGHP.
GREENVILLE, S.C. (WSPA)  A bill aiming to remove the ability for the states largest school district to approve its own budget will likely not get a vote this spring.

In April, House Bill 4397 was filed in the South Carolina House of Representatives. The bill, if passed into law, would require the budget for the Greenville County School District to be approved by the Greenville County Council.

The bill is sponsored by Republican representatives William Huff, Stephen Frank, James Burns, Mark Willis, William Chumley, Patrick Haddon, Alan Morgan, Thomas Gilreath, and Thomas Beach, each of whom represent parts of Greenville County.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the state legislature website, the bill is currently being held in committee. With the current legislative session set to end this week there is little chance it could be voted on, though sponsors of the bill can reintroduce it in a later session.

In a statement, Greenville County Schools said it strongly opposes the bill, claiming it would undermine the will of voters who elect members of the districts board of trustees and would hamper the district and trustees abilities to respond to the needs of its 78,000 students and 12,000 employees.

Greenville County Council has never approved the districts budget, and it is highly uncommon to require a district to have approval of its entire budget by a county council. We urge lawmakers and the community to reject this bill. Budget decisions must reflect students needsnot political agendas, the statement reads.

You can read the full statement from Greenville County Schools at the bottom of this story.

No planned tax increases this year

On Monday, Greenville County Schools Board of Trustees had a first reading of the planned 2025-26 budget.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The proposed budget features avenues for pay increases for teachers and school staff, though the amounts of those increases will be partially decided by the yet-to-be-finalized state budget.

Notably, the district is not recommending any increase in millage rates, which impact the amount of taxes residents pay to fund the district. This would be the fourth time in 11 years Greenville County Schools has not raised its millage rate.

This information presented today reflects a priority by Greenville County Schools to attract and retain the highest quality teachers and staff in an increasingly competitive environment, said Dr. W. Burke Royster, Superintendent of Greenville County Schools. We know that the quality of teachers and staff within our schools has a direct impact on the achievement of our students, and we must remain competitive and continue to invest in our students success.

A final reading of the budget is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Monday, June 2. There will be a public hearing at 6 p.m. to give community members a chance to comment on the proposed budget.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

More information about the proposed budget can be found here.

Full statement from Greenville County Schools:

Greenville County Schools strongly opposes H.4397, which proposes to shift final approval of the districts budget from the locally elected Board of Trustees to Greenville County Council. The legislation would shift control of the school districts $1.3 billion budget from the nonpartisan, education-focused Board of Trustees to Greenville County Council, a partisan body that manages a much smaller $300 million budget and has no direct expertise or mandate in education governance. The current Board of Trustees were elected by the local voters to represent them. This legislation would remove the responsibility for the districts budget as one of the primary duties of Board Trustees and undermine the will of the voters. This legislation sets a dangerous precedent and risks creating an environment where two elected bodies can blame one another for decisions and outcomes, avoiding accountability. Local control of funding is not about raising taxesit is about responsibly fulfilling our obligations to students, teachers, and schools. If the federal and state governments fully funded the mandates they impose on school districts, the need for local tax increases would likely be unnecessary. The districts recommended budget for the 2025-26 school year does not include a tax increase. This would be the fourth time in 11 years the district has not raised millage, and in the last 17 years, it has never used the full millage amount available. With rising enrollment, increased costs, and urgent staffing needs, this bill would hamper the districts ability to respond to the needs of 78,000 students, their families, 12,000 employees, and our communitys future workforce. Greenville County Council has never approved the districts budget, and it is highly uncommon to require a district to have approval of its entire budget by a county council. We urge lawmakers and the community to reject this bill. Budget decisions must reflect students needsnot political agendas. Greenville County Schools

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.
Congressional Republicans agree that the federal government has a spending problem. Now top GOP leaders want to make it someone elses problem  by shifting some safety-net programs onto state budgets.

The plans under discussion could generate hundreds of billions of dollars in savings to finance the GOPs domestic policy megabill. But theyre vexing Republican lawmakers  many of them former governors and state legislators  who are not interested in addressing Washingtons fiscal woes by creating them in state capitals, including those run by their own party.

Its one big reason why Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune are struggling right now to build consensus for the big, beautiful bill, with its expensive suite of tax cuts as well as border and defense spending plus-ups. Already they are scaling back ambitious plans that would force states to either subsidize health and food aid or kick thousands of residents off benefit rolls.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Most of us are not interested in simply shifting costs, said Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), a former governor, who warned there most certainly would be significant pushback from states if the GOP proceeds with cost-sharing plans.

I hope to goodness we dont go there, added Sen. Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), another former governor, whose constituents are heavily reliant on federal programs.

The mathematical impetus for the GOP proposals is straightforward enough: The tax cuts that President Donald Trump and Republican leaders are eyeing are estimated to cost $5 trillion or more over the coming decade. Offsetting that cost requires more than shaking the couch cushions, and two safety-net programs have emerged as particularly appealing targets.

Together Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps, account for about $1 trillion in yearly federal spending. Republicans are mostly unified on instituting work requirements, tightening eligibility verification, excluding undocumented immigrants from benefits and cracking down on waste, fraud and abuse. But to achieve even deeper cuts, they are looking to make states pick up more of the tab.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Medicaid has been a joint federal-state program since its creation in the Great Society era, but its 2010 expansion under the Affordable Care Act put the federal government on the hook for 90 percent of the costs for newly eligible beneficiaries. States, meanwhile, have never had to bear the costs of SNAP benefits, though they are responsible for a portion of administrative costs.

Under some House GOP proposals now under consideration, states would have to assume a greater share of the cost for the Medicaid expansion population while also bearing a portion of SNAP benefit costs for the first time. Republicans are also exploring whether to curtail health provider taxes states frequently use to finance their Medicaid costs.

Together, it could shift hundreds of billions of dollars yearly to state budgets that are already strained as federal pandemic aid runs out and other Trump administration cuts take effect. In California, for instance, lawmakers are preparing for a minimum $10 billion budget shortfall for the fiscal year starting July 1, with that number set to triple at least in 2026.

The National Association of State Budget Officers has found that Medicaid makes up more than half of federal funding to states. Brian Sigritz, the groups director of state fiscal studies, said in an interview that states will either have to raise taxes, cut benefits or slash other programs in response to the slew of changes impacting their budgets. Sigritz said the impact will be cumulative.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its clear states wont be able to absorb the federal cuts and cost shifts in recent federal actions and congressional proposals, Sigritz said. States are required to balance their budget, and states wont be able to fill in the gap.

Republicans have trained much of their criticism on Democratic-run states that, they argue, run those two programs wastefully. But millions of low-income families in red states also rely on the programs for health care and food aid, and some of the latest GOP plans would actually hurt deep-red states even more than others  including a reworked SNAP state-cost share plan.

That has fueled the intra-GOP backlash, with many Republicans in the House and Senate shorthanding their opposition by insisting they will not cut benefits  meaning they might tolerate work requirements and other ancillary changes but not changing the federal governments core responsibilities.

Rep. David Valadao, one of the most vulnerable Republicans up for reelection in 2026, is a former state legislator who sharply criticizes the fiscal management of his home state of California. But hes also wary of putting a greater financial burden on states like his.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

California has kind of blown it on some of these fronts, Valadao said. So it puts me as a Californian in a difficult position.

Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-Wis.) stood up during a closed-door House GOP conference meeting Tuesday morning to warn about the SNAP proposals impact on his home state of Wisconsins budget. Alongside Van Orden sat dozens of House Republicans in states that would be hit even harder.

GOP leaders have pulled back from some of the farthest-reaching proposals. The House Agriculture Committee had been eyeing having states pick up a 25 percent share of SNAP costs; the latest proposal would start at 10 percent for states with the lowest rates of overpayments. No one likes this, said one Republican granted anonymity to describe private sentiments inside the party, but we need to reach these cuts.

As for Medicaid, Johnson on Tuesday ruled out cutting the federal reimbursement rate and suggested that an alternative  per-capita caps on federal reimbursements  would also be excluded.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But other proposals  like limiting state provider taxes  remain on the table, and so far the public pushback inside the House GOP has been relatively limited. Thats not true in the Senate, where most Republicans hate the idea of saddling states with billions of dollars in new financial burdens  though discussion continued about cutting the federal share for some Medicaid beneficiaries at a party retreat Wednesday, according to two senators who attended and were granted anonymity to describe the closed-door event.

Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), a former state House speaker, has warned against catching states off guard on Medicaid changes and said he plans to call members of his own state legislature to discuss the percolating proposals. Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), another veteran of state government, said shifting costs to states may make [the federal] numbers look better  but it still becomes a burden.

Senate Agriculture Chair John Boozman (R-Ark.) said in an interview that he has concern about sharing costs for food aid and that his panel is not pursuing the idea. Sen. John Hoeven  who, like Boozman, is in frequent contact with House Agriculture Chair G.T. Thompson (R-Pa.)  said he was skeptical the House would ultimately follow through: Id put that in the category of, lets actually see if they do it.

New cost-sharing mandates could stick GOP-dominated states such as Alaska, West Virginia, Mississippi, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Alabama and Florida with multi-billion-dollar annual bills  forcing high-stakes choices for state officials who would suddenly have to worry about their own political hides. Even White House officials have privately fretted about a potential one-two punch for red states, leaving many in the GOP much more comfortable with the less drastic proposals, such as work requirements.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I think the politics of work are a lot lighter burden to carry than just pushing off some of the costs to the states, said Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas).

Samuel Benson, Rachel Bluth and Eric He contributed to this report.
The entrance to Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. State officials Tuesday said they will move forward with a plan to demolish and rebuild the historic Baltimore track and construct a state-of-the-art training facility on a 328-acre Carroll County farm. (File photo by Jay Cannon/Capital News Service.)

State officials said they will move forward with plans to raze a storied but deteriorating Baltimore horse track following the running of the Preakness Stakes later this month.

The Board of Public Works Wednesday is scheduled to vote on two requests related to the states thoroughbred racing plans. Included in the requests are plans to purchase a Carroll County parcel for a new training facility and another that will raze Pimlico Race Course as part of a modernization effort.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

So, after decades of trying to figure out what to do with Pimlico, tomorrow it will become a reality, said Greg Cross, chair of the soon-to-be-disbanded Maryland Thoroughbred Race Track Operating Authority.

The authority Wednesday will seek approval from the Board of Public Works, chaired by Gov. Wes Moore (D), to purchase Shamrock Farm.

The 328-acre Carroll County farm will become a new training facility to support expanded racing at Pimlico.

The nearly $4.5 million purchase price is the highest of three appraisals conducted for the racing authority. The General Assembly in 2024 set aside $110 million for construction of a new, state-of-the art training facility as part of a thoroughbred racing centralization plan.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cross said the new facility will house 800 horses.

Initially, the property will be owned by the authority. But the panel was dissolved by the legislature as part of its budget negotiations. In its place, lawmakers divided the authoritys responsibilities between the Maryland Stadium Authority and the Maryland Economic Development Corp.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

The stadium authority will assume ownership of the training facility property on July 1. It will also manage construction of the training facility. MEDCO will oversee community development at the racetrack.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What a tremendous opportunity we have not only to continue the proud tradition of Maryland horse racing, but to take it forward and become even more so a leader in the area of not just racing and breeding, but equine health, said Tom Sadowski, executive director of MEDCO.

Sadowski said his quasi-governmental group will work with the stadium authority and be engaged intimately with the community to make sure, once we have this training center up, once we have Pimlico renovated, that we complete the job and that we look at those opportunities for development, whether its a new parking facility or a hotel or other supportive development, that we make sure that those things are realized for the benefit of the community.

In a separate request, the board will be asked to approve a $15.2 million contract with Baltimore-based Clark Construction Group for the demolition and redevelopment of Pimlico Race Course.

Craig Thompson, chair of the Maryland Stadium Authority, said the plan is more than just about a race track and racing, as historic and important as it is, its really about bringing hundreds of millions of dollars in state investments to the Park Heights community.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By focusing horse racing on Pimlico, officials said they hope to increase the total number of racing days in Baltimore from 15 days to 100 days. The effort is also expected to support 500 jobs.

Thompson said the new Baltimore facility will be a year-round hub of economic activity in Park Heights in the Park Heights area, and its going to feature not just the world-class racetrack, but also a hotel event space and other amenities.

Demolition of Pimlico Race Course could begin later this year. The State Archives is assisting the authority with identifying and preserving part of the facility.

This years Preakness will be held May 17 at Pimlico. The 2026 Preakness will be held at Laurel Park before returning to Baltimore, and a new Pimlico facility, in 2027.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Senate President Bill Ferguson (D-Baltimore) told reporters in a separate meeting he looked forward to the race later this month.

I think it will be an excellent event, and then we move forward with the next chapter in Maryland racing, Ferguson said when asked about the abolishment of the racetrack authority. And I think we have some very big choices and decisions ahead, and I have every confidence in MEDCO and MSA to help us navigate through that.
EAST LYME, Conn. (WTNH)  The Connecticut State Police confirmed Tuesday night that the Fire & Explosives Investigation Unit (FEIU) is currently investigating a series of fires in East Lyme.

East Lyme deputy fire chief placed on administrative leave

The fires date back to fall 2024. The investigation is in conjunction with Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and East Lyme officials.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

State police said the investigation is active and ongoing.

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.
The U.S. is on track to surpass 1,000 measles cases this year as the viral illness  once so rare that most young doctors dont recognize the telltale rash  makes an alarming comeback.

The outbreak, which has spread to 29 states as of May 1 and claimed three lives, hasnt stopped some local lawmakers from considering or implementing policies that could make it even easier for parents to opt out of school vaccination requirements for their children.

Idaho Gov. Brad Little signed into law last month an unprecedented ban on vaccine mandates for schools and businesses in the state, which already boasts the highest vaccine exemption rate for kindergarteners nationally.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On his first day in office, West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey issued an executive order permitting religious exemptions from school and day care immunization requirements  a major shift in one of the few states that had only allowed medical exemptions previously.

And lawmakers in red states like Florida, Louisiana and Texas are weighing measures that would make it more difficult for health providers to deny care  from organ transplants to pediatric well visits  to people who arent vaccinated.

Those state efforts, alongside separate measures to limit or ban the use of messenger RNA vaccines like those developed for Covid, come amid longtime vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s ascent to power in Washington as Health and Human Service secretary. But theyre hardly a new phenomenon  immunization coverage has declined nationally for kindergarteners since the 2019-20 school year  and their roots can be traced back to a group of moms in Texas. The Lone Star state has been the cradle of domestic vaccine resistance for the last decade and is now the epicenter of an exploding measles outbreak that could end the U.S.s status as a country without sustained spread of the virus.

The nation has caught up to Texas, because we have been dealing with this rhetoric and these little micromovements, said Rekha Lakshmanan, chief strategy officer at The Immunization Partnership, which promotes vaccination in the state.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rebecca Hardy founded Texans for Vaccine Choice in 2015 to lobby against legislation to end religious and philosophical exemptions in the state. Since then, the groups clout has solidified, and more state lawmakers, predominantly Republicans, offer public support at events like its annual rally at the state Capitol building in Austin.

A group of moms got together and basically said, Not on our watch, Hardy said.



The social contract around vaccination  that individuals choose to get immunized to help protect their communities  in the U.S. is seemingly fraying as more parents survey social media to find pediatricians who wont force them to vaccinate their children. Parents increasingly question why their providers recommend so many shots for their kids when they didnt have to get anywhere near that number in the 1980s and 1990s.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data shows that national immunization coverage among kindergarteners in the 2023-24 school year dropped to 93 percent, with exemptions from at least one vaccine increasing to 3.3 percent of those students. Fourteen states reported exemptions above 5 percent.



Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That dip threatens herd immunity against highly contagious diseases, like measles and whooping cough, that demand coverage rates of at least 95 percent.

Measles was officially eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, but that designation is now in jeopardy. Measles is no longer considered eliminated if a chain of infections lasts for more than 12 months, which public health officials expect to happen because of this latest outbreak.

Public health experts fear that skepticism and the rising medical freedom movement  which has dovetailed with Kennedys Make America Healthy Again mantle  will lead to more cases of vaccine-preventable illnesses in children, many of which can cause serious complications and even death. Measles, they say, is the proverbial canary in the coal mine for other sinister but lesser-known illnesses, like whooping cough and Hib disease.

Some public health experts are now puzzling over who might be trusted messengers to promote vaccination as scientific institutions are falling out of favor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Right now, were losing trust in our institutions in general, Dr. Seth Berkley, the former CEO of Gavi, a global vaccine alliance, said last month at a vaccine conference in Washington.

A first-in-the-nation move

The bill Little signed into law in early April prohibits Idaho schools and businesses from requiring a medical intervention  like a vaccine  as a condition for enrollment or employment. The measure, which goes into effect July 1, was tweaked by legislators after the governor vetoed an earlier iteration that he said would have hampered schools ability to send home children with communicable illnesses from measles to pink eye.

The legislation Little ultimately endorsed includes explicit references to sections of Idaho law permitting both school immunization requirements and exemptions, as well as allowing schools to keep students with contagious diseases out of class. Richard Hughes, a vaccine law expert at Epstein Becker Green who advised on the changes, said they leave intact Idahos existing infrastructure for mandates and exemptions.

But the law also references Idahos parental rights statute, making its full ramifications unclear. Hughes said he fears that, as a result, vaccine opponents could challenge any school that tries to keep its existing requirements intact.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Health Freedom Defense Fund, the group that says it wrote the original Idaho bill, said in a statement days after passage that the law ensures no Idahoan will ever again be compelled to undergo unwanted medical interventions as a condition of employment, education, or daily life.

Louisiana lawmakers are scheduled to consider similar legislation this week in committee.

It was definitely disappointing to see that pass in Idaho, just to know it can be used to set a precedent for potentially doing things like that in other states, said Jennifer Herricks, founder of Louisiana Families for Vaccines.

While all 50 states permit medical exemptions to vaccine requirements, only five have prohibited exceptions on religious or personal grounds. But Morrisey in West Virginia has made his own move to overhaul the states longstanding policy of limiting vaccine exemptions to medical reasons.



Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Morrisey, a Republican, signed an executive order in January directing health officials to establish a process for residents to object to school or daycare immunization mandates on religious or conscientious grounds, citing a 2023 state religious protections law. But the state House rejected a Senate bill to codify his directive weeks before the legislature adjourned.

I'm not a doctor  the experts that I rely upon absolutely are rock solid, rock solid, behind the fact that we need to be taking the vaccines, GOP Sen. Jim Justice, Morriseys predecessor who vetoed an earlier attempt to loosen vaccine policies there, told POLITICO last month.

West Virginias public health agency says its still reviewing religious exemption requests. A webpage outlining its medical exemption process explains why  until the January order  the state didnt grant them previously.

Non-medical exemptions have been associated with increased occurrence of vaccine-preventable disease outbreaks originating in and spreading through schools, the state website for the Office of Epidemiology and Prevention Services says.

Expediting exemptions

In Texas, members of the state Houses health committee spent nearly two hours considering testimony last month for and against Texans for Vaccine Choice-backed legislation to make it easier for parents to access vaccine exemptions from the state. The majority of the dozen-plus witnesses opposed the measure, which would allow guardians to print exemption affidavit forms at home instead of waiting for the state to mail them upon request.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Overall, Texas vaccination coverage of kindergarteners during the 2023-24 school year was 94.4 percent for required immunizations. But theres wide variation across the state  nearly 100 private schools and public districts reported MMR vaccine rates below 75 percent.



Some legislators suggested they were sympathetic to TFVCs perspective  that the bill would fix a paperwork and taxpayer burden and wouldnt necessarily increase the number of exemptions.

This legislation doesn't affect whether kids can opt out of these vaccinations, said Republican state Rep. Mike Olcott. It just has to do with the expediency of how quickly they can opt out.

But public health advocates and parents opposing it argued thats exactly what would happen  and that the states raging measles outbreak clearly illustrates the consequences of exemption-friendly policies.

Texas has given countless rights and protections to parents who choose not to vaccinate, parent Heather Lacy Cook told the panel. I'm happy for that, but my rights are dwindling.
The opening of a railway to Turkiye is being enthusiastically discussed in Armenia. The road, like the border, has been closed since 1993. After the Karabakh conflict ended, our neighbors decided that the borders and roads would open automatically, but the automation did not work. It turned out that to restore communications, it's not enough just to lose the war, you need to fulfill many other conditions to prove that you deserve to be taken out of isolation.

The government estimates that it will take about a year to launch the Armenian section of the Gyumri-Kars railway. With the support of the now-deceased USAID, a preliminary estimate of the cost of the upcoming work was carried out within the framework of the Crossroads of the World project - 32 and a half million dollars. It is not reported from which sources Yerevan plans to receive this amount. Most likely, the calculation was made on the US Agency for International Development, which will no longer be able to help Armenia.

According to Armenian media, in August last year, Armenia and Turkiye agreed to consider the possibility of launching a railway connection between the two countries. A meeting of special representatives for the settlement of relations was held at the border, at which the parties agreed, in accordance with regional trends, to assess the technical needs that will create opportunities for the launch of the Akyaka-Akhurik railway border checkpoint. But it didn't go any further. Firstly, because there is no money, and secondly, it has not been possible to eliminate the Azerbaijani factor in Yerevan's relations with Ankara. Besides, restoring one section to the border with Turkiye will not solve anything. It is necessary to repair the old and build new railways in Armenia so that we can talk about transit. And the repair of existing railway lines alone will cost Yerevan 500 million dollars. Nikol Pashinyan tried to attract investors by advertising his "crossroads" all over the world, but there are no people willing to invest in the dead-end project yet. Everyone understands that before the establishment of peace and the opening of borders, it is not serious to talk about the economic effect of investments. Everything may not go as promised in Yerevan. The borders may not open at all, may not open soon, or Armenian transit may not be in demand. Agreeing on the points of the peace treaty does not mean signing it, but there are already established and effective transit routes in the region. Armenian transit still needs to prove its advantages, which may take years.

Recently, the Armenian side has received a small dose of inspiration, and from where it did not expect. At the end of April, in an interview with the Turkish media, Charge d'affaires of the People's Republic of China in Armenia Chen Min stated that China is preparing to open a new chapter of the One Belt, One Road initiative with the participation of Armenia. To this end, Beijing and Yerevan will soon sign an agreement in the transport sector. The Chinese diplomat announced that "these projects will change the economic map of the South Caucasus."

Such a statement, made by the Chinese side for the first time, caused euphoria in Armenia. Although the diplomat's words, apparently, were just words with nothing behind them, in Armenia they were glad to hear something they could not even dream of. In this case, the joy is twofold - both from the fact that Armenia has finally been seen, and from the fact that China is a major investor who invests in the projects he needs. Armenia has decided that the Armenian transit is important for Beijing for some reason, and Beijing will pay for everything accordingly, as it does in Central Asia, for example.

How exactly China will integrate Armenia into the Belt and Road, and what the transport agreement will be about, has not been announced. It is clear that we cannot talk about the Middle Corridor, because Beijing knows the geography well. Despite the discussions that have begun in the Armenian media, we note that we are most likely talking about the southern route of the Chinese initiative. This is a car route, and Yerevan should not count on a fantastic cargo turnover along it.

It should be recalled that at the end of May last year, the first truck arrived in Yerevan from Shanghai, passing through the territories of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Iran. The truck made this journey in three weeks. Celebrations and speeches were held in Yerevan on the occasion of the truck's arrival. It was announced that the "crossroads" had become a reality. Meanwhile, a month later, a cargo truck arrived in Baku from China, which left Alashankou (China), passed through Kazakhstan and Russia and reached Azerbaijan in just 6 days without any problems. The difference is huge.

But diversification, of course, never hurts, and China is doing just that. At the same time, we should not forget that we are not talking about the railway, but about the automotive segment of the project. It will not provide for investments in the modernization of the country's railway network. Namely, railways require large investments. The restoration of the Hrazdan-Ijevan-Gazakh road will cost Armenia more than $300 million, and the construction of a dismantled road through Meghri from scratch will cost more than $60 million. In Armenia, they are wondering whether it is worth spending money, and they doubt the economic effect. Which, frankly, is surprising. What is surprising is not that the neighbors do not want to spend money, but that they question the vital importance of opening communications. They are afraid to lose. After all, we have lived in isolation for more than thirty years - and nothing, we are alive. Maybe, Armenian experts argue, it's not worth emptying the budget?

But in Armenia they like to talk about how Turkiye, Azerbaijan, China and the whole of Eurasia need the opening of communications. Some routine statements give food for such arguments to the "loving ears" of the Armenian side. As the words of the same Charge d'affaires of the People's Republic of China. Or the statement of Turkish MP Ahmed Arslan that the opening of the Armenian-Turkish border, they say, "will lead the region out of the impasse and allow Kars access to Central Asia through Armenia." It is difficult to imagine how Turkiye can connect with Central Asia through Armenia.

And let us remind you that Turkiye currently has the opportunity to connect with the Central Asian countries through the Middle Corridor, the railway segment of which is Baku-Tbilisi-Kars. It is unlikely that the Turkish MP did not know about this.

Armenia is forced to focus on the corridor to Turkiye through Nakhchivan, because the Azerbaijani side is ready to consider another route through Ijevan only after the implementation of the Zangezur corridor. Azerbaijan does not need a road through Ijevan. But Armenia needs it to use the entire railway network, which has fallen into complete disrepair without international transportation.

At one time, 80 percent of the cargo to Armenia went by rail through Azerbaijan. The Azerbaijani direction has always been vital for the Armenian side. This country has never been a transport hub, and it does not understand that one desire is not enough for this. It takes years of hard work and a lot of money for the dreams of delivering goods from India and Iran to Europe and Russia via Armenia to become an indispensable link between the Persian Gulf and the Black Sea to come true.

But even more important is good relations with neighbors. And you can't do that anywhere.
PRAGUE, May 6 (Xinhua) -- A Czech court on Tuesday issued a preliminary injunction temporarily blocking the Czech firm Elektrarna Dukovany II (EDU II) from signing a final contract with South Korea's Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) for the construction of new nuclear reactors at the Dukovany power plant.

The injunction follows a legal complaint by French energy company EDF, which had participated in the tender but lost. EDF challenged the decision of the Czech competition authority UOHS.

The regional court in Brno published the information on its official website. As a result, the contract, originally scheduled to be signed on Wednesday, has been postponed pending a final court ruling.

The dispute concerns a contract for the construction of two new nuclear reactors, valued at an estimated 400 billion Czech crowns (about 18 billion U.S. dollars).

"We are convinced that the selection process was conducted fairly and in accordance with the law. We believe that the court is aware of the broader context and will decide quickly," Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala said on social media platform X.

The Czech government decided to build new units in July 2024. (1 Czech crown = 0.046 U.S. dollar) 
URBANA, Ill. (WCIA)  Some are getting ready to leave Urbanas Brookens Administrative Center, while others are preparing to move in. Just because the Bennett Center is opening in Downtown Urbana doesnt mean Brookens is closing. Champaign County owns the building, at least until 2026.

George Danos, the county auditor, said the county spent $2 million to buy the new building downtown and $23,782,352.31 more to renovate it. He explained that the county will still pay about $2 million at Brookens to cover utilities, routine maintenance, structural upkeep and depreciation every year.

Despite all of that, not everyone is eager to make the switch to the Bennett Center. In fact, Danos plans to keep his office at Brookens for the foreseeable future.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Bennett design, for two years, had me on the fourth floor with the sheriff. Taking 20% of that floor on the west side, he said.

Champaign Co. officials move into Urbanas new Bennett Administration Center

But things have been shifted around. Danos said he and his team are being moved to the second floor instead, where there are fewer offices, which he feels are not yet built for his needs. So, the auditor wants to see changes before a move happens.

In his eyes, that means putting up full walls and creating four more offices, totalling six for his department.

My only concern is that my staff can work efficiently in a space that makes sense for the county, for the taxpayers and the vendors, Danos added. Im looking to see that the Office of the County Auditor is viable and resourced for the future well after Ive left it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Champaign County offices ready to move into Bennett Center

While hes staying put, people like Lisa Liggins-Chambers, the executive director at the Champaign County Childrens Advocacy Center (CAC), are moving into Brookens. By August or September, she expects her full team to start getting settled.

Itll be like a one-stop shop, she explained.

Children will connect with specialists from Carle Health, the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), police detectives from various agencies and other CAC staff members.

The county owns the building, and she said CAC will not pay rent for the space.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We are grant-based, so paying thousands of dollars per year in rent is now going to be eliminated, Liggins-Chambers added.

Some Champaign Co. workers rallying for better contracts

The Regional Planning Commission will remain in Brookens for now. Tami Ogden, the Chief Operations Director, said they have started looking at other locations since the future of Brookens after 2026 is uncertain.

Steve Summers, the county executive, said the gym inside Brookens is being leased to a third party. He confirmed theyve also started talking with Cunningham Township to potentially use some of the space.

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 News

Elise Stefanik is making sure that her next plum position wont get yanked away from her thanks to intraparty tensions.

After the New York Republican relinquished her nomination to become President Donald Trumps UN ambassador, Stefanik has two potential paths before her: remain in Congress and reaccumulate her power in the House GOP, or run for governor of New York. The second path risks pitting her against Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., whos also eyeing a gubernatorial run  but Stefanik is subtly gaining an advantage.

Trump endorsed Lawlers re-election to his battleground seat in Congress on Tuesday night, posting that HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN! It wasnt exactly a choice of sides in the brewing Lawler-Stefanik rivalry, and Stefanik declined to tell Semafor in an interview whether the president was encouraging her to run for governor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But she confirmed reports that Trumps allies are urging her to consider it: Im proud to be his top ally in Congress. We have heard encouragement from all over the Republican ecosystem, including Trumpworld, Stefanik told Semafor.

Stefanik is expected to meet with Trump later this month, according to three people familiar with the planning. And two of those people also confirmed that Stefanik has repaired her relationship with House Speaker Mike Johnson, with whom shell need to work closely if she decides to pass up a gubernatorial bid to stay on Capitol Hill.

Its vital for Stefanik to stay on stronger footing with Johnson after a New York Times report that touched on her lingering frustrations with him. If she stays in Congress, shed likely look to get back the Intelligence Committee seat she gave up at the beginning of this Congress  and one person told Semafor that one option on the table now is to add seats to the committee to make space for Stefanik.

Of course, Stefaniks efforts may not spare her fellow New York Republicans a messy primary if both she and Lawler try to run for governor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Their relationship was strained but has become more cordial, according to a source familiar with it. Even so, Stefanik publicly shared Trumps endorsement of Lawler, which may have killed the congressmans shot at a statewide run next year.

Look, lets just let things work itself out for a little time, Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, R-N.Y., told Semafor on Monday about a potential primary between Stefanik and Lawler. I think itll be clear who the nominee should be without having to enter a primary situation.

Know More

Early polling indicates Stefanik would have a 37-point lead in a GOP gubernatorial primary and trails Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul by just six points.

While it would still be a tough climb in a state that last elected a Republican governor in 2002, Stefanik is clearly drawn to the challenge. She told Semafor that she plans to travel the state over the next several months. Party leaders have encouraged her to visit GOP-leaning counties throughout the state, including Rockland County, represented by Lawler, according to one of the people familiar and a separate source.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We are in the best polling position in the primary by an overwhelming margin, and were polling the best in the general election as well, she told Semafor.

Still, Malliotakis isnt alone in looking to avoid a bruising Republican primary. Rep. Nick Langworthy, R-N.Y., the former state GOP chair, told Semafor that he advocated against the partys last gubernatorial primary and would take the same stance this time, because we have to focus and get on target for the general election.



Should Stefanik and Lawler move toward a head-to-head, the state GOP would determine some of their fate during a February vote on a primary slate. Candidates with 25% automatically appear on the primary ballot, while the one to break 50% becomes the partys endorsed candidate.

Despite Stefaniks lack of an official decision, her potential face-off with Lawler is even getting attention across the aisle. The competition would be exciting, said Rep. Dan Goldman, D-N.Y.

Johnson, asked about the possibility of a Stefanik-Lawler primary, acknowledged the challenges of replacing a New York incumbent.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I want everybody to go as far as they can in their career, but we, you know, I have to monitor the map and make sure that we have a great candidate recruited to fill those seats, and Im confident we can do that, Johnson told Semafor.

As for Lawler, he was clear that his colleagues in the delegation wont dictate his decision.

They can have their own thoughts and opinions, and Im going to make my own determination  based on a number of factors, he said. Who else is running aint going to be one of them.

Kadias view

Some of Stefaniks own colleagues privately doubted that shed follow through with a gubernatorial bid. They saw it as a way to boost her profile after a tumultuous start to the new year, with Trump asking her to give up her appointment to the UN.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But the presidents low-key jab at Lawler, paired with strong early polling, may have changed the calculus and pushed Stefanik more toward saying yes.

After all, as Malliotakis put it, a few things matter when running for office in the Republican Party: polling, county chair support, money, and President Trumps endorsement.

Stefanik seems well on her way to achieving all of them. And if she decides to stay in Congress, she seems to be making progress toward regaining at least some of her past sway within the conference.

Room for Disagreement

That Intelligence Committee seat that Stefanik would want to reclaim if she decides to build her future in Congress is likely to also come with an extra seat for Democrats.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., said on Tuesday that Johnson hasnt yet connected with him about that idea  suggesting that an agreement may not be close.

Well cross that bridge when we get there, Jeffries told Semafor.

Notable
Top Trump adviser Stephen Miller heaped praise on the president once again Tuesday night  but critics were quick to turn his comment into a punchline.

During an appearance on Fox News Hannity, Miller described watching President Donald Trumps Oval Office meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney as like watching a grandmaster in chess perform.

Miller, a longtime anti-immigration hardliner and the White House deputy chief of staff for policy, clearly meant the remark as praise for Trump.

Miller: I had the pleasure of getting to be at the meeting today between the President of the United States and the prime minister of Canada. What I witnessed was like watching a grand master in chess perform. pic.twitter.com/QXlIIrjrPY  Acyn (@Acyn) May 7, 2025

The moment went viral on social media.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Critics of the Trump administration flipped the fawning metaphor on its head by suggesting he was actually talking about Carney and mocked the idea of POTUS as a strategic genius.

Yeah I don't think he's watched chess before  Akash Maniam (@ManiamAkash) May 7, 2025

surprised to see him flatter the canadian pm so directly  ian bremmer (@ianbremmer) May 7, 2025

I watched a world-renowned economist squirm with secondhand embarrassment at the mindblowing stupidity issuing forth from an American president.  The Dens  (@FoxBrambleFarm) May 7, 2025

:



I watched 45 minutes of that spectacle and, frankly, heard the Canadian Prime Minister speak only once or twiceyet what he said carried far more weight than all of Trumps rambling. I suspect many others feel the same.

Empty noise is not leadership  Gordon Fielden (@GordonFielden) May 7, 2025

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

High praise for Carney  Grumpa Steve (@digginholez) May 7, 2025

Tell me he was talking about Carney  Spikey Scabiosa  (@StockpilingS) May 7, 2025

Yes, Carney was DEFINITELY like watching a grand master in chess perform.  Stephanie Meidas Mighty (@Islandgirlpixie) May 7, 2025

Exactly. What an incredible performance by PM Carney!  Artemis  (@wickedpixii) May 7, 2025

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I didnt know the PM of Canada played chess.  Dr. Tom (@drtom878) May 7, 2025

By Mark Carney. Donald was abysmal.  Art Candee  (@ArtCandee) May 7, 2025

Related...
HealthPartners officials expect to begin construction of a new $400 million Lakeview Hospital campus in Stillwater by the end of the month.

The Stillwater City Council on Tuesday night voted 5-0 to approve the organizations plans for the new Lakeview campus at the northeast corner of Minnesota Highway 36 and Manning Avenue.

The vote covered a zoning map amendment/rezoning, site plan, conditional-use permit, planned unit development, height variance and preliminary and final plat.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Plans for the new hospital call for a six-story building totaling approximately 400,000 square feet  almost twice the size of the present Lakeview Hospital at Greeley and Churchill streets. Expected to open in late 2027 or early 2028, the new 64-acre hospital campus will include emergency medicine, advanced critical care and specialized centers for heart, cancer and orthopedic care, said Lakeview President Brandi Lunneborg.

Lunneborg told the council that a new and expanded hospital is necessary because the population of the St. Croix River Valley is expected to grow by an additional 5% over the next five years and that could be an 18% increase in the number of people 65 and older.

The current hospital, she said, is already often at more than 90% capacity, with no ability to grow in its current location.

This will give us the room to grow over the next 75 years, she said, adding that the new hospital campus is expected to create 250 to 300 new jobs in the first five years of operation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Projections show an additional 23% growth in in-patient care and 32% growth in emergency room visits by 2032, she said, and specialty-care services, including cancer care, orthopedics and heart care, are expected to grow in demand by more than 15% in the next five years.

This investment in our community is about two very important things: meeting the needs of the St. Croix Valley and surrounding areas and providing more care options close to home, she said. Weve been providing excellent care in a welcoming environment for 140 years. We look forward to carrying on that tradition as we grow with the community we serve.

The height of the hospital  six stories  exceeds the maximum height for the district by 35 feet, so a variance was required, said Ben Gutknecht, the citys planning manager.

Mayor Ted Kozlowski said he was concerned about the height of the new building until he realized the Washington County Government Center in Stillwater is almost as tall, if not taller.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Youve demonstrated the need, he said. The building plan that you have designed makes sense for health care. Im excited about this. But I want to make sure we do everything we can to minimize disturbance to neighbors.

The council on Tuesday night also voted not to require an environmental-impact statement, a detailed environmental review of the project. The council, by a 5-0 vote, deemed that the environmental assessment worksheet that was done was sufficient.

Mitigation will be required to be provided in the final design of the project where impacts of potential environmental effects have been identified, Gutknecht said.

Among the concerns raised in comments in response to the EAW: snow storage and chloride impacts; truck access to the loading/receiving area; sustainable and resilient building construction; tree replacement; trails; building height and lighting; noise in the loading/receiving area, as well as general traffic noise; bird-friendly construction and practices; groundwater and wellhead protection; pollinator habitat; reuse of stormwater for irrigation; dust suppression; wetland impacts; and climate and heat-island considerations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No one spoke during the public-comment session of the meeting.

Council member Larry Odebrecht said he is excited about the project. All three of my kids and my wife were born at Lakeview, he said. This is a 100-, 150-year project for the city. Its an incredibly important piece of infrastructure for the city.

The council also voted on Tuesday night to spend $22,000 to purchase a strip of land along Minnesota Highway 95, currently owned by the Minnesota Department of Transportation, for a new parking lot proposed for Lumberjack Landing, the citys new park north of downtown.

The parking lot will be located north of the existing city-owned parking lot and north of the Manitou Fund Arts and Education Building. When working on the preliminary design of the new lot, it came to the citys attention that a portion of the new lot and a portion of the existing lot encroach onto MnDOTs right of way, said Shawn Sanders, director of public works.

They gave us the price of $22,000 for the purchase of the land, Sanders said.

Sold! said Kozlowski.
A woman has narrowly escaped death after being attacked by a stingray while snorkeling in South Australia.

Pam Bennett, 68, was snorkeling 50 meters offshore at Treasure Cove on the southern Yorke Peninsula when a stingray struck her, piercing her arm with a 6-inch barb in a harrowing attack, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) reported.

"I actually didn't see that stingray  he had come from behind, I think. He had actually attacked. That's not their normal behavior, Bennett told the outlet. "It wasn't long after that that I felt the barb go into my arm."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bennett was approached by the stingray while conducting a survey of marine life at the cove with three other researchers, following the unusual number of fish deaths in the area, according to ABC.

The 68-year-old was attacked just above her right elbow, leaving her with blood spurting out from her arm. The barb was lodged near her brachial artery and required surgery to be removed.

John White Photos/Getty Yorke Peninsula in South Australia Yorke Peninsula in South Australia

Related: Fla. Woman Impaled in Back by Stingray Barb That Narrowly Missed Her Lungs: 'I'm Still in Shock'

Marine biologist Mike Bossle was one of the group members with Bennett and called her brave for not panicking during the attack.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We had to get Pam out of the water, she was bleeding quite heavily, but she's a very brave woman and didn't panic or anything," he said, per News.com. au.

Bennett was first taken to Yorketown Hospital and then transported to Adelaide, where the barb was removed from her arm, according to ABC.

"It was actually laying alongside the brachial artery but it didn't penetrate the artery. I could have been a Steve Irwin, Bennett told ABC, referring to the late conservationist who died at age 44 in 2006 after being attacked by a stingray while snorkeling in Australia.

Craig Heydon/Getty Yorketown Hospital in Yorketown Australia Yorketown Hospital in Yorketown Australia

Related: Massive Stingray Caught in Cambodia Becomes the World's Largest Freshwater Fish Ever Recorded

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bennett said she is grateful to have survived the incident as she told ABC, In hindsight, I feel like I've won the lottery because I'm amazed it was me and not a young child."

Despite her serious attack, she added that she still thinks stingrays are beautiful creatures."

According to the South Australian Department for Environment and Water, stingrays are misunderstood by many and the chances of actually dying from an injury caused in an attack are rare.

Stingrays are not aggressive. They are curious and playful animals when there are divers and snorkellers around, and if they feel threatened their first instinct is to swim away, they said. But as with all marine life, people must respect stingrays personal space  Never threaten or corner a ray, and always keep an eye out for their tail.

Read the original article on People
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.

Stratolaunch's Talon-2A hypersonic vehicle during one of its first two hypersonic test flights, in either December 2024 or March 2025. | Credit: Stratolaunch/Julian Guerra

Stratolaunch Systems has gone hypersonic  twice.

Stratolaunch took its uncrewed Talon-A2 prototype to hypersonic speeds for the first time this past December, then repeated the feat in March, the company announced on Monday (May 5).

"We've now demonstrated hypersonic speed, added the complexity of a full runway landing with prompt payload recovery and proven reusability," Stratolaunch President and CEO Zachary Krevor said in a statement on Monday. "Both flights were great achievements for our country, our company and our partners."

Stratolaunch's Roc carrier plane  seen here with the dart-shaped Talon-A2 hypersonic vehicle still attached  has a wingspan of 385 feet (117 meters). | Credit: Stratolaunch/Brandon Lim

Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen established Stratolaunch in 2011, with the goal of air-launching satellites from a giant carrier plane called Roc, which has a wingspan of 385 feet (117 meters). That vision changed after Allen's 2018 death, however; the company is now using Roc as a platform to test hypersonic technology.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hypersonic vehicles are highly maneuverable craft capable of flying at least five times the speed of sound. Their combination of speed and agility make them much more difficult to track and intercept than traditional ballistic missiles. The United States, China and other countries view hypersonic tech as vital for national security, and are therefore developing and testing such gear at an ever-increasing pace.

Stratolaunch, Roc and the winged, rocket-powered Talon-2A are part of this evolving picture, as the two newly announced test flights show. They were both conducted for the U.S. military's Test Resource Management Center Multi-Service Advanced Capability Hypersonic Test Bed (MACH-TB) program, under a partnership with the Virginia-based company Leidos.

On both occasions, Roc lifted off from California and dropped Talon-2A over the Pacific Ocean. The hypersonic vehicle then powered its way to a landing at Vandenberg Space Force Base, on California's Central Coast.

"These flights were a huge success for our program and for the nation," Scott Wilson, MACH-TB program manager, said in the same statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The data collected from the experiments flown on the initial Talon-A flight has now been analyzed and the results are extremely positive," he added. "The opportunity for technology testing at a high rate is highly valuable as we push the pace of hypersonic testing. The MACH-TB program is pleased with the multiple flight successes while looking forward to future flight tests with Stratolaunch."

Stratolaunch's Talon-2A prototype lands at Vandenberg Space Force Base during a hypersonic test flight in either December 2024 or March 2025. | Credit: Stratolaunch/Brandon Lim

Stratolaunch's statement didn't provide a payload list for the two flights, and a Department of Defense press release about them was similarly vague.

But we do know at least one piece of tech that Talon toted  Northop Grumman's Advanced Hypersonic Technology Inertial Measurement Unit, which is designed to help hypersonic vehicles navigate.

"Survivability of the navigation unit, also known as a hemispherical resonator gyroscope, is a major accomplishment due to the harsh environment hypersonic speed presents and the intense forces experienced as the technology operates within Earths atmospheric boundary," Northop Grumman representatives said in a different statement. "This technology collected hours of critical ground and flight data, pivotal for future development."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Related stories:

 Stratolaunch launches 1st rocket-powered flight of hypersonic prototype from world's largest airplane

 Stratolaunch flies world's largest airplane on 2nd test flight

 Stratolaunch starts building Talon hypersonic plane for Mach 6 flights

Stratolaunch isn't the only American company providing the U.S. military and other customers with a testbed for hypersonic tech: California-based Rocket Lab flies a suborbital variant of its workhorse Electron rocket called HASTE (Hypersonic Accelerator Suborbital Test Electron) for this purpose.

HASTE has flown three times to date, on each occasion from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport in Virginia. And the cadence could pick up in the near future: Both the U.S. and U.K. militaries recently picked Rocket Lab as a potential partner for their hypersonic-tech programs.
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  Students and faculty at University at Buffalo, among others, are filing a lawsuit against over 40 police officers, the City of Buffalo, and the president of UB alleging a violent dispersal of a pro-Palestine protest last May.

On May 1, 2024, more than 50 students gathered in front of Hochstetter Hall for a peaceful protest against the war in Gaza including prayer, speeches and chants, according to the plaintiffs. Police were called after five tents were set up on campus, which is against the universitys policy.

UB said that 15 people, seven students and eight people unaffiliated with the school, were arrested. Charges against them included loitering, trespassing, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The federal lawsuit alleges that despite the calm nature of the protest, police officers violently suppressed the protest in a militarized response.

At exactly 8:23 p.m., dozens of officers charged the protest site while the Muslim sunset prayers were ongoing, the lawsuit reads. The officers violently tackled students and community members, punched and kneed individuals who has been restrained, dislodged religious garments, zip-tied wrists so tightly that fingers went numb, and taunted crying arrestees with profanity and threats.

Plaintiffs say their rights were violated under the first, fourth and fourteenth amendments of the U.S. constitution. They are seeking damages for a loss of freedom, as well as trauma, both physical and mental, the lawsuit said.

UB students and faculty also filed a lawsuit at the state level, where they again are seeking compensation for physical and mental pain and trauma, a violation of core civil liberties, as well as reputational harm. According to the lawsuit, the plaintiffs needed medical treatment and mental health care.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She was grabbed by the backpack, slammed to the ground, and pinned by three officers, including at least one UBPD [University at Buffalo Police Department] officer  one on her head, one on her chest, and one on her legs, the lawsuit said of one of the plaintiffs. Her hijab and keffiyeh were forcibly dislodged. She was mocked and taunted while restrained, denied a chance to readjust her clothing, and transported in handcuffs.

The state lawsuit, which seeks $25 million in damages, also accuses responding officers from various nearby agencies of menacingly patrolling UBs campus and harassing students who tried to leave or enter buildings. Other accusations listed in the lawsuit are assault, battery, false arrest, false imprisonment and negligence, to name a few.

Latest Local News

Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Katie Skoog joined the News 4 team in April 2024. She is a graduate from the University at Buffalo. You can view more of her 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.
One of the key ways of learning and observing in grade school is seeing through the eyes.

Iroquois Elementary School is making sure vision challenges dont become a barrier to academic success.

This week, students are receiving free exams and glasses from non profit Pittsburgh organization Vision to Learn.

They run a mobile optometry unit that brings vision care directly to the student.

MACC Food Pantry expands options, offering special options this week

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Were going to serve about 60 students through this program, said Caitlin Kinnane, community school director for Iroquois Elementary School. A lot of our kids are having fun with the experience of seeing a doctor in a van.

Iroquois is a United Way of Erie County community school. Through the model, they were able to partner with the Erie Womens Fund to make this happen.

The services are for students who have failed their regular vision screens in their nurses office.

Vision to Learn serves a range of counties in western Pennsylvania and one of their doctors said theres a real need to provide these services for students.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Not only improvement with how theyre doing in class, but engaging with the world, some of these little kids, especially, they dont know whats normal, said Dr. Aaron Harsch, with Vision to Learn.

Once they enter the van, students meet with their optician to do a screening and eye exam.

When the testing is done, students get their eye health checked as well.

After the exam is complete, the clinic will come back in a few weeks with the finished glasses.

Newborns given special onesies ahead of Mothers Day

They get to pick out their own pair of glasses, and they have a huge selection, said Kinnane.

Kids had that woah moment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some of them have never worn glasses before, they have frequent headaches, said Dr. Harsch. You dont know exactly what home life is like, you dont know how involved or whether they have the capacity to bring them to where they need to be.

The company also offers a two-year warranty for all of the glasses they provide.

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.
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. ((WJHL)  Kylie Connelly is like thousands of parents with autistic children who exhibit elopement behaviors  vigilant about her childs whereabouts and safety, and concerned about how public schools handle the challenge of children prone to run.

PREVIOUS: Investigation active after autistic child walks away from school, found by mom

I definitely want him to be included when he goes to school and if hes in a public school setting, to be around his peers and have the same experiences that they do, Connelly said of her son Oliver, a 9-year-old third grader. But sometimes that doesnt work out, especially when you have the concern of him eloping and the school not necessarily being there to be able to help with that.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Eloping is a term that describes a response quite a few autistic children have to any number of potential triggers. Essentially, they run, sometimes eventually hiding, sometimes wandering.

He very much likes to wander off, Connelly said of Oliver, who is high functioning and currently doing math several grades above level at a private autism school in Johnson City. Hes in his own world and there has been instances where hes got away from us and were not sure where hes at. And its terrifying.

Jacki Wolfe said she understands Connellys concerns. Washington County, Tenn.s Chief Student Supports Officer oversees special education at her district and said parents concerns are warranted  but that at least in Washington County, leaders strive to protect students and certainly to avoid the worst.

Its a schools worst nightmare, Wolfe said. I mean, as much as we want to plan and be proactive and have eyes on students, you know, it does happen.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

News Channel 11 reported on a recent elopement at Kingsports Andrew Johnson Elementary School. On March 18, a 6-year-old kindergarten girl with autism ran from the school during a recess. She had been gone for close to 30 minutes and in a strangers care for about half of that when the stranger and the mother met each other on the street.

Seven staff remain reassigned to non-supervisory duties during the investigation, Kingsport City Schools (KCS) Assistant Superintendent Andy True confirmed Tuesday.

Theres not a teacher prep class for how to handle elopement

Washington County has dodged the lost child bullet during Wolfes tenure there, but she did live through that experience when she was an administrator at KCS. She estimated about one in four children with autism displays elopement behaviors of some sort, which in Washington County totals somewhere around 50 kids.

Theres not a teacher prep class for how to handle elopement, she said. We really have to work together as schools. Its that hands on experience, we learn from each other and collaborate on best practices.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sometimes that includes learning the hard way. In Washington Countys case, the main focus areas are having adequate personnel, making sure those people know their roles, having the right physical structures in place  and working closely with families.

Everybody knows their role, she said. If something comes over the intercom, then certain teachers are designated to step out and close fire doors or monitor their hallway  everybody plays their part in that plan as a school.

Theres also simple logic, she said.

If they know theres an elopement risk, theyre trying to increase supervision during transitions or those less structured times at school, putting up visual barriers or visual cues like stop signs on the door, fences around playgrounds, alarms on door locks and things like that.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The system also uses behavior intervention specialists who work with children to try and make their classroom experiences as positive as possible to try and decrease the incidences of elopement. Wolfe said good relationships with families are key in that effort.

If they know theres a risk of elopement, let your schools know so that we can be proactive in those situations, Wolfe said.

And its not just letting us know that theres an elopement risk, but have you seen things that cause that elopement in your student? Is it when they get anxious? Is it when they get excited? Is it when they are in an unfamiliar place, or what are those triggers? Because then we can work together and really be proactive in strategies to prevent it.

Significant amount of room for improvement

Connelly said she understands the challenges schools face. Students with special needs often require extra and other time-consuming and expensive aids. And she knows elopement is a vexing problem, as it was when an incident at KCS proved the last straw for the family, at least at that point.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He was in a class with 20 kids with one teacher, and if my sons the one thats running and shes trying to watch him and all the others, she cant do it all by herself, Connelly said. Or being outside on a playground thats maybe not fenced, and they cant always keep an eye on every child.

So they do need the financial assistance to secure the playground or to get more assistants or aids to help the teachers keep an eye on those kids that are at a higher risk of eloping.

But Connelly said a lack of resources isnt the sole problem.

I think there is a significant amount of room for improvement, she said, pointing to some of the measures parents take and the frustrations some have expressed in getting the schools to accept those.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There also needs to be less pushback when these kids need the extra assistance, whether thats bringing in a service dog and helping them have an aid to facilitate the dog, or not push back on devices like the Angel Sense device.

Oliver has a service dog, Mickey, that can help calm him and also track him if he runs and cant be found. Angel Sense is an app many parents use to geolocate their kids. In fact, its how Crystal Stanley knew where to look for her daughter on March 18.

Integrating those helps can be an additional burden. The Angel Sense, for instance, has a feature that allows parents to listen to their children, which can cause school systems some privacy concerns.

That may seem like a whole lot, but our childs safety is is our top priority, Connelly said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She said Oliver is thriving at a private school, but she wants public schools to continue improving.

His brain works a little different than ours and that brings things like me having to deal with meltdowns or the worry of elopement. He has a communication delay and a speech impediment. But I would not take away my sons autism, because that has made him and shaped him into who he is.

Connelly, who has two older children, said he didnt destroy my family, he was the piece that brought it together. Hes taught me patience and unconditional love.

Wolfe said she believes schools can and will continue improving their service to children with special needs, including those with autism who elope. And she said appreciating peoples differences in the school setting benefits everyone.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We really want to see that celebrated and when we do it does nothing but cause positive impact on academic achievement, on attendance, just on the overall school culture, she 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 WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
People are watching what is happening, and they dont think its going to end well. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

As President Donald Trump completes his first 100 days back in the White House  which were marked by a firehouse of controversial deportations, political retribution, and dramatic cuts to the federal government  political scientists and the general public alike are more concerned about democracy in the U.S. than they have been in at least seven years.

Thats the latest finding from Bright Line Watch, an initiative created by John Carey and Brendan Nyhan, both Dartmouth College professors, in partnership with professors Sue Stokes from the University of Chicago and Gretchen Helmke from the University of Rochester. The group has been tracking how political scientists and a representative sample of Americans view democracy in the U.S. since 2017 and 2018, respectively. Their latest report, released Monday, found confidence at new lows. Carey called the results troubling.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Im more alarmed now than I have been at any point in the past, Carey said. And we did this work all through the first Trump term, through the Biden term as well. But the first couple months of the second Trump administration have been unlike anything weve seen before.

In April, the researchers expert sample  from which they typically receive around 500 to 800 responses from political science and government professors from across the U.S.  rated the state of U.S. democracy lower than they ever had before: an average of 53 on a scale of 1-100. For reference, their rating never dipped below 61 before Trump took office in January. However, from November  before Trump was inaugurated but after he was elected  to February the average expert rating plummeted from 67 to 55.

The general public gave U.S. democracy an average rating of 49 out of 100 on the same scale in April. Thats down from February, when the people gave it an average rating of 53. This is the first time its ever dipped below 50.

Confidence dropped among both Democrats and Republicans. For Democrats, the rating fell from 49 in February to 45 in April, while the Republicans rating fell from 59 to 56 during the same period. That marked the sharpest Republican rating decrease since November 2020 to January 2021, a time in which the U.S. Capitol was attacked, Trump exited the White House, and Congress impeached Trump for a second time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The survey also asked experts their views on Trump failing to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia after it erroneously deported the Maryland man to a Salvadoran prison, his executive order targeting the Democratic fundraising apparatus ActBlue, and his revoking of funds for some universities. In all three cases, more than three-quarters of the experts called the actions serious or extraordinary threats to democracy. Carey himself is also concerned about these developments.

The rate at which democratic transgressions are being done is so fast that its kind of hard to believe, Carey said. If you went back a month, obviously we wouldnt have been talking about those things, but we would have been talking about the arrest, for example, of student demonstrators. And if you went back two months, wed be talking about refusal to spend funds that had been appropriated by Congress. I mean, these are all things that are, if not unprecedented, they have very few precedents in American history. The list of transgressions is long, and things are happening so quickly that its easy to be focused just on whats in front of us this week.

They also asked experts to predict how democracy in the U.S. will look in the future. Careys takeaway: People are watching what is happening, and they dont think its going to end well.

I take the projected ratings with obviously more of a grain of salt, because theyre based on speculation, he said. But, weve been asking for those projections for the last three or four years now anyway, and the steepness of the decline is greater than what weve seen previously.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Carey acknowledged that their expert sample likely leans heavily liberal because university professors are more often liberal than conservative. He also noted that over the course of their study, Democrats tended to rate democracy better when a Democrat was president while Republicans tended to rate democracy better when a Republican was president.

Part of whats going on, I think, in our most recent survey, is that most of these experts are Democrats, and they dont like what the Trump administration is doing, he said. But thats not all of it.

Carey believes theres more to it. He pointed out that throughout their research, both while Trump was president and Biden was president, the expert ratings were roughly 10 points higher than the general publics.

The reason, I think, for that is the experts tend to have a broader perspective, he said. They know whats going on at home, but they also tend to know much more than our public sample about what a democracy operates overseas. And you know, when you have that information, you tend to rate American democracy higher.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After Trump was elected, expert ratings were still almost 10 points higher than the publics, but after his inauguration, they were only two points higher (55 to 53).

It wasnt just like Trump won the election, so they think democracy stinks, he said. It only kicked in once he became president and started to implement his policies.

Like the researchers he surveyed, Carey is concerned.

I consider Trump an authoritarian, he said. I wouldnt go so far as to say that our political system is an authoritarian political system yet, because I dont think Trump has centralized his authority to that degree. He hasnt demonstrated to me yet that he is unconstrained, but hes gone a lot further down that path than I would have predicted three months ago.  And Ive got my fingers crossed for how things are going to go in the coming months, but Im not confident anymore.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The four release a report every few months and have been doing so since February 2017. Carey said it was his work not as a researcher of U.S. politics but of Latin American politics that inspired him to do this work. He said the four (Stokes and Helmke also studied Latin American politics) were corresponding during the 2016 election and noting similarities between the 2016 campaign and political moments in some Latin American democracies that have fallen to corruption.

There was a general consensus up until that election that democracy in some countries  and the U.S. would be included in that  was sort of indestructible, he said. And those perspectives started to change pretty dramatically that year.

Carey said the projects name, Bright Line Watch, is a reference to the groups initial motivation for this work.

Our question was, is there a line that, if its crossed, will prompt pushback on a massive scale from both sides of the political aisle, Carey said. Because we were watching all of these transgressions, and generally speaking, the other party would scream, but the co-partisans of whoever was committing the act were like, No, this looks OK to us. And theres a general and kind of theory among political scientists that goes way back that democracy is only stable if there are some bright lines that, when theyre transgressed, even co-partisans are going to resist. And so our question was, Can we find such a bright line in this current context? And I gotta say, in the years since we started the project, my confidence that there are such bright lines has diminished considerably.

This story was originally published in New Hampshire Bulletin.
MOSCOW, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro signed a strategic partnership agreement following bilateral talks in Moscow on Wednesday.

The agreement is focused on long-term cooperation, and covers all key areas on the bilateral agenda, local media cited Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov.

During the talks, Putin said there were many promising areas for cooperation between Russia and Venezuela.

"We are generally satisfied with how our contacts are developing," Putin said, noting Maduro's personal attention to the development of these ties.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the two leaders discussed specific aspects of cooperation in the energy and oil sector, and said the talks were thorough.

According to the strategic partnership treaty, published on the Kremlin website, both countries have agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation across all key sectors. Russia and Venezuela will expand defense, energy, and military-technical cooperation.

"The parties will enhance defense ties in areas of mutual interest, recognizing them as an important factor in maintaining regional and global stability," the document reads.

Russia and Venezuela will also strengthen military-technical cooperation to boost defense capabilities and ensure the security of both countries.

The parties will also firmly reject unilateral sanctions, viewing them as a violation of the Untied Nations Charter and international law and as "an instrument of pressure" used to destabilize sovereign states.

Russia and Venezuela have also agreed to boost cooperation in the exploration and development of oil and gas fields, and have vowed to expand oil trade.

Maduro arrived in Moscow on Wednesday for an official visit. The Venezuelan leader will also take part in the events commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War alongside other international leaders. 
The same atmospheric traffic jam causing rain to repeat over the northeastern and southern United States will also promote a dry pattern with building warmth over other areas of the nation in the coming days, including much of the North Central states, AccuWeather meteorologists say.

The combination of the storm in the Southeast and an approaching storm from the Pacific will squeeze the atmosphere over portions of the West, northern and central Plains and the Upper Midwest through this weekend. The result will be a significant upward trend in temperatures through Mother's Day.

In Bismarck, North Dakota, temperatures will trend upwards to the upper 90s F by Mother's Day afternoon.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The record high of 96 set in 1906 on Sunday will be challenged. This would be 30 degrees above the historical average for the date. The earliest 90-degree temperature or higher in Bismarck was on April 13, 2003. Before reaching 89 Saturday afternoon, the warmest Bismarck had been so far this year was 83 on May 5 and May 8.

Similarly, temperatures will trend upward farther to the east in Minneapolis with a high around 90 in store for Mother's Day.

The building heat will make it feel like midsummer, minus high humidity levels. The sudden heat could pose challenges for some individuals, and caution is advised when doing strenuous outdoor activities.

People may be tempted to go swimming in ponds and lakes to cool off amid the summerlike heat. However, this can be dangerous as many waters are still dangerously cold this time of the year and could easily lead to cold water shock, muscle cramps and a risk of drowning.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Even though 90-degree temperatures are not anticipated for Chicago through Mother's Day, temperatures both days of the weekend will peak in the 70s, which is generally accepted as being comfortable to most residents.

AccuWeather.com

Farther south, such as around Omaha, Nebraska, Des Moines, Iowa, and Kansas City, Missouri, temperatures will trend upward over the central Plains as well, with widespread highs in the 80s this weekend. However, the temperature departure from the historical average will be more on the order of 10-20 degrees, rather than 20-30 degrees from up north.

The warm and sinking air in the region will tend to evaporate most cloud cover, so that a string of mainly sunny days is in store, north of the storm's influence in the Southern states.

As the storm from the Pacific begins to exert more influence throughout the weekend, the combination of surging temperatures, a breeze and dry brush leftover from the winter can create ideal conditions for wildfires to easily start and quickly spread.

AccuWeather.com

People are urged to use extreme caution with open flames and outdoor power equipment during the hot and dry weather. Avoid parking on dry brush, as the exhaust systems from running vehicles can be hot enough to start a fire.

AccuWeather.com

For those who may mind the heat or may grow weary of it, there is the potential for the conditions to linger for several days next week, especially from the Dakotas east to the upper Mississippi Valley.

Want next-level safety, ad-free? Unlock advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts when you subscribe to Premium+ on the AccuWeather app. AccuWeather Alerts are prompted by our expert meteorologists who monitor and analyze dangerous weather risks 24/7 to keep you and your family safer.
The Sumner County Sheriffs Department is the latest law enforcement agency in Tennessee to partner with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement as the state begins to see sweeping immigration crackdowns.

The effort comes as Nashville on Sunday saw a mass traffic sweep where the Tennessee Highway Patrol in partnership with ICE pulled over 150 cars and detained an unknown number of people.

The operation sparked a mass public outcry from immigration advocates and state and local lawmakers, including Nashville Mayor Freddie OConnell.

Ashley Warrington walks with other protesters alongside a bus being escorted by Immigration Customs and Enforcement officers (ICE) and Homeland Security officers at the DHS field office in Nashville, Tenn., on Sunday, May 4, 2025. Multiple immigrant rights groups gathered to protest what they believed to be a multi-agency operation to detain noncitizens overnight.

Meanwhile, a growing number of law enforcement agencies are signing on to an ICE enforcement program called 287(g) that allows local officials to take on some federal duties, like jail enforcement and serving civil immigration warrants.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sumner County signed on for the ICE 287(g) program on April 29, according to the federal list.

It now joins five other Tennessee counties, including Giles, Knox, Greene, Hamilton and Putnam.

The Knox, Greene, Hamilton and Putnam sheriff's departments are all part of the program's jail enforcement model, where local law enforcement work to identify undocumented people in custody and begin the immigration proceedings on behalf of ICE.

Sumner and Giles counties are part of the program's warrant service officer model, which allows local officials to serve civil immigration warrants on undocumented residents in the agencys jail.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Summer County Sheriff Eric Craddock in an email Monday said he opted to join the program to enhance the safety and security in the community.

By entering into the Warrant Service Officer (WSO) model of the program, we will be able to more efficiently and lawfully process these individuals - ensuring that those who pose a threat to public safety are not released back into the community, he wrote.

Officials have touted the ICE program as a way to streamline warrants for people with criminal charges in a secure environment, while reducing the number of criminal offenders released back into the community.

ICE trains local law enforcement but does not provide any extra financial incentives.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The state, however, could begin providing financial incentives for local agencies that participate in 287(g) under Tennessees new immigration enfacement division.

Craddock said Sumner County is not receiving any state grants or financial benefits tied to immigration enforcement at this time, but he does plan to pursue any available grants in the future.

Gov. Bill Lee last month appointed a new immigration czar, Ryan Hubbard, to head the division as the state's first chief immigration enforcement officer. Hubbard, who spent 28 years in immigration enforcement, previously served as a special agent with the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security.

For years, Greene and Hamilton counties were among the only local state agencies participating in 287(g), but more are now signing up in step with the Trump Administrations immigration enforcement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The number of gencies across the U.S. are now participating in 287(g), is skyrocketing and Florida has mandated that all agencies participate. As of April 9, ICE has agreements with more than 400 agencies in 38 states.

That number has climbed to 571 agencies in 39 states as of May 5.

This story was updated to add a gallery.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Sumner County signs on to Tennessee ICE enforcement program
ALBANY  SUNY Healthcare Educator Scholarship, an innovative pilot program designed to expand SUNYs capacity to educate future nurses is part of Gov. Kathy Hochuls healthcare workforce agenda.

The scholarship will cover tuition and fees and provide a stipend to baccalaureate-prepared nurses pursuing a masters degree in nursing. In return, recipients will commit to a three-year faculty position at a SUNY associate-level nursing program, helping strengthen the future nursing workforce in New York State.

The SUNY Healthcare Educator Scholarship will cover up to $25,000 per academic year, including up to $20,000 for tuition and fees toward a qualifying masters in nursing degree program at SUNY, plus a $5,000 annual stipend for each year of eligible enrollment. The pilot program is slated to support two cohorts of approximately 35 students each.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Eligible students are encouraged to apply here.

The SUNY Healthcare Educator Scholarship Program will help ensure more skilled nurses are ready to enter the workforce and improve the quality of healthcare throughout New York State, State University of New York Chancellor John B. King Jr. King said.

With a projected shortage of 40,000 registered nurses in New York State within the next five years, we must take bold steps to address this problem. That is why SUNY is stepping up with this innovative scholarship program that will invest in the next generation of nursing educators and thereby help expand and strengthen the healthcare workforce.

SUNY Board Trustee Eric Corngold said, As New York faces a major shortfall in high-quality nursing professionals in the coming years, SUNY is stepping up to address this looming crisis. The innovative SUNY Healthcare Educator Scholarship Program will help empower more nurses to become educators, and more New Yorkers to become nurses. This commonsense investment is part of SUNYs ongoing efforts to ensure New York State has the educated, dedicated workforce we will need to succeed in the new economy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The SUNY Healthcare Educator Scholarship pilot program was created based on recommendations from the SUNY Future of Healthcare Workforce Task Force, a group convened to guide SUNY in addressing the critical healthcare workforce shortage, which identified enhancing SUNYs healthcare educator pipeline as one of its four priority areas for short-term action and investment. The pilot was first announced in the 2024 State of the University Address as a way to address the shortage of nursing educators, which has created a significant barrier to expanding SUNYs nursing programs.

Upon receiving the scholarship, recipients must secure a faculty position at a SUNY associate-level nursing program within three months. Faculty training and professional development will be provided to all recipients to equip them with effective teaching skills, enhance their instructional techniques, and ensure a successful transition into their faculty roles. Teaching responsibilities must begin by January 2026, with recipients committing to a minimum of 18 academic credit hours per year for three years.

Im proud to join my colleagues in helping secure funding for the SUNY Healthcare Educator Scholarship Program. This will help our eminently qualified nurses obtain their Masters degree. We need to teach the next generation of healthcare workers and prepare them for careers in these much-needed fields. In return, these new educators will serve New Yorkers in nursing. I thank Chancellor King for developing this program to meet our States nursing shortage, Senate Higher Education Chair Toby Ann Stavisky said.

Assembly Higher Education Chair Alicia Hyndman said, Today is an exciting moment for SUNY and for the future of healthcare in New York State! As Chair of the Assembly Higher Education Committee  and as someone who believes deeply in the power of education to change lives  I am thrilled to see this bold investment in our nursing workforce. The SUNY Healthcare Educator Scholarship is about breaking barriers: its about giving talented nurses the support they need to advance their education and step into leadership as the educators our communities so urgently need. I want to thank Chancellor King and everyone at SUNY for their vision and commitment to strengthening healthcare from the classroom to the bedside. Our future nurses  and all New Yorkers  will be better because of it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Assemblymember Amy Paulin said, The SUNY Healthcare Educator Scholarship is a forward-thinking investment in both our students and our states healthcare future. By supporting aspiring nursing educators, were not only addressing the shortage of faculty that limits program capacitywere also ensuring that future nurses receive the high-quality training they need to provide exceptional care. This initiative is a win for SUNY, a win for our healthcare system, and most importantly, a win for patients across New York.

Assemblymember Karines Reyes, R.N., Chair of the NYS Assembly and Senates Puerto Rican/Hispanic Task Force, said, I applaud SUNY and the institutions leadership for making this pivotal investment in a critical part of New York States workforce. Our state is facing a shortage of nurses in the coming years and decades. This investment in the SUNY Healthcare Educator Scholarship Program will make sure that our practitioners can afford to improve their skill set, while giving back to our states public higher education system and students, with the three-year residency. I thank SUNY Chancellor John King and his administration for their leadership on this initiative, and look forward to seeing the positive fruits that are born from it.

Assemblymember Phara Souffrant Forrest said, As a proud CUNY and SUNY alum, a nurse, and a mom, I know firsthand the power of public education to transform lives. The Healthcare Educator Scholarship Program is a crucial investment in building the healthcare workforce New Yorkers need  and making sure the people teaching our future nurses, doctors, and caregivers actually reflect the communities theyll serve. This is how we strengthen our hospitals, our neighborhoods, and our state  by believing in our people and giving them the tools to thrive.

For more information about the program, eligibility requirements, and to access the application, visit https://www.suny.edu/health/scholarship/. Applications are due May 30.
Details remain very limited at this time, but CNN reports that another F/A-18 Super Hornet from the Supercarrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) has been lost. Two U.S. officials have confirmed to TWZ that the mishap did indeed occur.

CNN states that the jet crashed into the sea during its attempt to land. Both the pilot and the Weapon System Officer (WSO) were able to eject and were recovered by helicopter with only minor injuries. TWZ has confirmed that the arrestment failed on touch-down and the jet careened off the deck. MH-60 Seahawk squadron HSC-11 made the rescue and the F/A-18F Super Hornet was from VFA-11, the Red Rippers.

This is the second loss of a Super Hornet from the carrier  one of two operating in the region  in just a week. The other loss occurred while the vessel was evading a Houthi attack, with the Super Hornet rolling off the deck into the sea. Nobody was hurt in that incident, thankfully. A month and a half prior to this loss, on the same deployment, the Truman suffered a collision at sea that resulted in a change in the ships commanding officer. Not long before this mishap, another one of the carriers Super Hornets was accidentally shot down by a U.S. Navy cruiser assigned to the Truman Strike Group.

An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 81, launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) during flight operations in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. (Official U.S. Navy photo) MC2 Logan McGuire

The USS Harry S. Truman has been deeply involved in a months-long intensified air campaign against the Houthis in Yemen. Those hostilities may have now come to an end as the White House declared an agreement with the extremist faction was reached to cease the exchange of fire. The deal would see the Houthis end their campaign against shipping in and around the Red Sea.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

CNN also reports that the Houthis attacked the carrier today despite the deal, stating:

Separately, the Iran-backed Houthi rebel group took a shot at the Truman on Tuesday, the four sources said, despite President Donald Trump announcing an apparent ceasefire with the group hours earlier. It is not clear whether the two incidents are related.

TWZ has not been able to confirm this at the time of publishing.

We will update this post with additional info when we get it.

Contact the author: Tyler@twz.com
Nearly six months after being announced, the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Departments program to provide health care to those living unhoused in the region is still not up and running.

Some people are worried and wonder if the program will ever become what was promised.

In October 2024, the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department (TPCHD) and the City of Tacoma announced the Street Medicine Pilot Program  funded by a $1 million grant from the Washington State Health Care Authority.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to an Oct. 22 news release announcing the program, the street medicine teams would be composed of medical and behavioral health professionals, including a medical provider, a behavioral health professional and a community health worker.

This program will bring crucial healthcare services directly to people living unsheltered, the release stated. The program will deploy specially trained Street Medicine Teams to provide care to individuals living in encampments, tent cities, vehicles, and other unsheltered locations.

During a Tacoma Pierce County Coalition to End Homelessness meeting on May 2, a representative from the department gave an update on the program.

Bianca Shell, program manager for the street medicine program, said the department is working on hiring staff for the team. She was hired in March.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Shell reported the program had hired two peer-support specialists, a homelessness liaison and a nurse with a behavioral health background. She said the department is in negotiations with a medical doctor and a nurse practitioner.

Shell said the program likely would not be fully staffed until September 2025.

She attributed the delay to an overall shortage in healthcare specialists following the pandemic and said the organization of Pierce Countys street medicine team is different than in other places with similar programs.

Shell said in other places teams are organized and operated directly by healthcare providers, such as hospitals or clinics. Pierce Countys is being facilitated by the health department, which typically does not administer health care.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I dont know the exact reasons as to why not, but that puts us at a disadvantage. Because you have a health department who is trying to stand up this team when the health department historically has not done this kind of work, Shell told members of the coalition. So that also accounts for some of the delay.

By late June, Shell said she anticipates being able to deploy large vans in the community to distribute supplies and offer medical exams in some capacity. She said the program will have to form partnerships to be able to host the vans in parking lots and other areas with encampments.

To date, the program has distributed hygiene kits and opioid overdose-reversing medicine around the community. She estimated the program has helped distribute supplies to more than 500 people.

Sally Perkins is a local homeless advocate who does volunteer street outreach in Tacomas Hilltop Neighborhood. During the May 2 meeting, Perkins expressed some of her frustrations with the rollout of the program.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is the first truthful presentation we have had on street medicine yet, Perkins said following Shells presentation. Weve been gaslighted for months.

Perkins said the timeline and progress of the program has been obfuscated by both the City of Tacoma and TPCHD.

Fast forward to May 2025. Still not up and running, Perkins wrote to The News Tribune in an email. Handing out supplies is something that random volunteers like ME can do  for free.

Perkins told The News Tribune she is concerned the street medicine team would not be what was promised  a program that brings health care directly to those who need it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She said she did not like the plan to park a street medicine van in one location and require those living unhoused to find it, which she said could be difficult for sick and mobility-impared individuals.

During the 2024 survey of those living unhoused in Pierce County, volunteers counted 2,661 people living unhoused in a single night. Of those surveyed, 25% reported having a chronic health condition, and 22% reported having a physical disability.

This is not true street medicine and was not the intent of the original Legislative proviso, as I understand that proviso, Perkins wrote to The News Tribune. And as far as I can see, there is no way for me, who is out talking to unsheltered people fairly regularly, to call this team directly and get them to show up when they are needed.
(KRON)  Is there a link between nature rescues in the Bay Area and a surge in inexperienced hikers visiting trails?

Mysterious human skull found on NorCal beach identified

Several recent close calls reported by Cal Fire have highlighted hikers needing rescue assistance from multiple agencies, or other hikers stepping in to help.

In one instance, on April 6, officials said a hiker fell an estimated 100 feet down the face of the cliff at Devils Slide, north of Montara, after losing their footing while hiking off the trail near the bunker. Although the hiker only suffered minor injuries, they had to climb even farther down the cliff to get a cell signal to call 911, confirmed Cal Fire.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Several agencies came together to perform a hoist rescue, eventually bringing the hiker to safety.

On March 10, three lost hikers, including two young children, were rescued in the Santa Cruz Mountains late on a Sunday night. According to the CHP Golden Gate Division Air Operations, It was reported that the children were beginning to suffer from hypothermia.

The helicopter crew located the hikers on a remote trail.

On December 27 of last year, another rescue at Devils Slide involved a cliff rescue operation on Highway 1, south of the Tom Lantos Tunnel. The hiker was successfully rescued, without injury, thanks to CHP Helicopter H30 with assistance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For novice hikers, we emphasize the importance of planning ahead and being prepared before hitting the trails, said California State Parks in a statement to KRON4.

CA State Parks says that while data doesnt single out inexperienced hikers as being a direct link to the number of rescues occurring, there are real factors that can complicate a day out in the wild.

While we do not have specific data available on safety rescues involving less experienced hikers during this time of year, we do notice that spring conditions can present unique challenges for outdoor recreation, continued CA State Parks. Changes in weather, trail conditions, and varying levels of preparedness among visitors all contribute to the need for increased awareness and safety.

California State Parks shared several key safety tips for those heading out into nature this spring:

Know Before You Go

Check Park Conditions: Visit the parks official website or social media channels to find the latest updates on trail and road conditions.

Monitor Weather Forecasts: Be prepared for sudden changes in weather, especially in spring.

Create an Outdoor Plan: Tell a trusted person where youre going and when you plan to return. Cell connectivity can be limited in many state parks, so having a backup plan is essential.

Play It Safe:

Stay Hydrated and Protected: Carry plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and dress appropriately for changing temperatures.

Know Your Limits: Overestimating your ability can lead to injuries or emergencies. Start with easier trails if youre new to hiking.

Stay on Designated Trails: This minimizes the risk of getting lost and protects natural habitats.

Additional Spring Considerations:

Wet Trails and Slippery Surfaces: Spring runoff can make trails muddy and challenging to navigate. Wear appropriate footwear and avoid areas prone to flooding.

Wildlife Awareness: Many animals are more active in the spring. Observe from a distance and never feed wildlife.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A construction worker who who survived the deadly Clay County bridge collapse in 2022 is suing the county and two companies he says are responsible for the tragedy.

Kaden Bax is suing Clay County, Crockett Engineering Consultants, LLC and WSP USA, Inc for the deadly bridge collapse on Oct. 26, 2022.

A gun & a life changed: Car salesman speaks out after being shot by former customer

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bax was working on the construction of a new bridge over Carroll Creek at NE 148th Street in Clay County, Missouri.

According to the lawsuit, Crockett Engineering Consultants was hired as a structural engineer for the project to create the falsework design, which is the integrated system of girders, braces and columns that are temporarily erected to support concrete forms during construction.

WSP USA was hired to inspect the bridge at critical points of the bridge completion process, the lawsuit says.

On Oct. 26, 2022, the lawsuit says Bax and other workers began pouring concrete for the bridge deck.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That same day in the early afternoon, when less than half of the total weight load was in place, suddenly and without warning the falsework collapsed, sending a river of wet concrete into Carroll Creek along with tons of twisted metal rebar and shattered wood forms.

Several workers got trapped in the rubble at the bottom of Carroll Creek.

Connor Ernst, Bax and two other construction workers got trapped in a mixture of wet concrete and rubble. The lawsuit says Bax was buried up to his waist in wet concrete.

He could not see daylight, it was pitch black and he was scared for his life, the lawsuit says.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ernst, a 22-year old from California, Missouri, was killed in the collapse  after drowning in the wet concrete.

Bax and the other two workers were able to get out.

The lawsuit claims Bax suffered abrasions, bruises, concrete burns to his chest, right knee, calf and back  resulting in severe back pain, soreness, stiffness and emotional distress.

Bax has been dealing with post-traumatic stress and anxiety ever since the bridge collapse, the lawsuit says.

Crockett Engineering, WSP accused of negligence

The lawsuit accuses Crockett of negligence for failing to create a structurally sound falsework design.

The lawsuit claims that the engineering company breached its duty in several ways, including:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Preparing an incomplete and inadequate set of falsework designs, plans and specifications for the project.

Failing to create a complete and viable set of falsework designs, plans and specifications for the project.

Failing to create a set of falsework designs, plans and specifications for the project that was sufficient to support the total load necessary.

Failing to design the falsework according to governing and/or applicable codes, standards and industry expectations.

Failing to communicate key material information and elements about the falsework designs, plans and specifications it had prepared for the project.

WSP is also accused of negligence in the lawsuit.

The lawsuit claims that, as the company responsible for inspecting the bridge, WSP should have known that the falsework would not hold.

The lawsuit says WSP breached its duty in several ways, including:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Failing to determine that the falsework designs, plans and specifications for the project were incomplete and inadequate.

Failing to determine that the falsework designs, plans and specifications for the project lacked key material information and design elements.

Failing to determine that the falsework designs, plans and specifications for the project were insufficient to support the total load necessary.

Failing to ensure the falsework was constructed according to project plans.

Failing to ensure that the falsework was constructed according to governing and/or applicable codes, standards and industry expectations.

Clay County failed to remedy dangerous conditions that led to collapse, lawsuit argues

Clay County is accused of allowing dangerous conditions to exist at the project site.

The lawsuit says the falsework was inadequate and incomplete, claiming it was unstable and could not support the total load necessary. The county was responsible for remediating these dangerous conditions but failed to do so, the lawsuit argues.

The dangerous conditionswere allowed to exist by Clay County, the lawsuit says.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lawsuit argues that the county failed to make those conditions safe  and says Clay Countys failure led to the bridge collapse.

Bax is demanding a jury trial to determine whether the county is guilty of permitting dangerous conditions on the property and whether Crockett and WSP are guilty of negligence.

FOX4 reached out to Crockett Engineering Consultants and WSP USA on Tuesday. They have not responded to our request for comment.

FOX4 also reached out to Clay County but has gotten no response.

This lawsuit was filed in the Circuit Court of Clay County, Missouri, on May 1, 2025 (Case No. 25CY-CV05157).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Stay with FOX4 for the latest updates on this 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 FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
May 7AUGUSTA  A year and a half after Maine's deadliest mass shooting, survivors of the tragedy in Lewiston and mental health workers told state lawmakers Wednesday that many people are still in the process of healing and need continued support services.

The Maine Resiliency Center in Lewiston opened in the aftermath of the October 2023 mass shooting and has provided individual and group support and resources for survivors, witnesses, family and friends of victims, and first responders.

The center has served more than 600 people since opening but needs additional funding to continue its work. A bill introduced by Sen. Peggy Rotundo, D-Lewiston, would provide $3.4 million over the next two years to continue and expand services at the center.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The MRC ... fills our systems' significant gaps, offering support for people who would otherwise fall through the cracks," Rotundo said during a public hearing Wednesday.

Several people who witnessed the Lewiston shooting or lost loved ones in the tragedy testified in support of the bill during an emotional public hearing before the Health and Human Services Committee. No one testified against the proposal.

At one point, the committee called for a brief recess after hearing the testimony of a woman who wiped away tears as she talked about how she and her children had to run from gunman Robert Card at the Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley the night of the shooting.

Card killed 18 people and injured 13 others at Just-In-Time and Schemengees Bar & Grille.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Another witness, Danielle Chabot, told the committee how she and her husband were also at the bowling alley that night, and how the center continues to help her recover from the trauma.

"Some of the survivors are back bowling or playing cornhole," Chabot said after apologizing to the committee for her shaking voice. "But every single one of us still struggles. ... Something triggers us, and we are right back there, reliving every harrowing second of that evening."

Chabot said the center has made it possible for her to resume normal activities like going to the grocery store or out to a restaurant. "I've done therapy on my own regarding this tragedy weekly since two days after the shooting. ... But the group meetings for the survivors that were held weekly at the resiliency center have helped me more than I can even tell you," Chabot said.

Kathleen Walker, who lost her husband, Jason Walker, and his friend Michael Deslauriers, said some people impacted by the tragedy are only now "coming out from the fog of grief and trauma" and need support.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A recent event at the center for first responders drew 200 attendees, Walker said in written testimony filed before Wednesday's hearing.

"This is a strong testament that THIS ISN'T OVER," Walker wrote. "We still need the MRC, they still have a role, they need to continue."

CONTINUING THE HEALING PROCESS

The center offers a unique model by providing free services and a low barrier to entry, Rotundo said. She said the center "meets people where they are" and doesn't require a professional diagnosis in order for someone to receive services.

The National Center for PTSD estimates that 28% of people who have witnessed a mass shooting develop post-traumatic stress disorder. Research also suggests that mass shooting survivors may be at greater risk for mental health difficulties compared with people who experience other types of trauma, such as natural disasters, according to the American Psychological Association.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Long-term outcomes can be improved with community support and access to mental health care, the association has said.

The center was expected to be funded with federal grant funding from the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Victims of Crime that would keep it open through January 2026. However, the grant funding is still pending, the center's director, Danielle Parent, told the committee Wednesday.

She said the center has been operating using cash advances from the city of Lewiston and the Office of the Maine Attorney General that were expected to be reimbursed with the federal funds, as well as philanthropic funds. And the uncertainty around the federal funding has made the need for state funds more urgent as the center hopes to be able to continue and expand its work, Parent said.

In recent months, she said the center has been approached about providing services for people who were not impacted by the Lewiston shooting but who are facing other traumas from gun violence or the sudden loss of loved ones. She hopes the center will be able to say yes to those requests with state funding to keep it running.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"This bill ensures that healing continues  for those impacted by 10/25 and anyone in Maine who experiences profound trauma," Parent said.

A spokesperson for the attorney general's office confirmed Wednesday that a grant application has been submitted but said the office has not received word on when the federal funding might become available.

Rotundo's bill, LD 1425, has bipartisan support from Democratic and Republican co-sponsors, indicating it may also get broad support when it comes up for votes. But the $3.4 million price tag means it will have to compete with other initiatives for a limited amount of funds at the end of the legislative session.

Rotundo, who also co-chairs the Legislature's budget committee, said it's too early to know how much money will be left to divvy up among various bills as lawmakers are still working through the latest budget proposal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

SUPPORT FROM GOV. MILLS

A spokesperson for Gov. Janet Mills said that, while it wasn't in the governor's proposed budget, she supports the center.

"The governor has admired the important work of the resiliency center since the tragedy in Lewiston in October 2023," Ben Goodman said in an email. "With Maine facing a tight fiscal environment, additional funding for the resiliency center was not part of the governor's biennial budget proposal, but the governor looks forward to working with Republican and Democrats in the Legislature on this and other important budgetary matters in the coming weeks."

Regina Schulman, a counselor and therapist who has been running support groups at the center since January 2024, said in written testimony that when she began her work many of the people participating in the groups were facing debilitating fear, anxiety and survivor's guilt.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They experienced triggers when driving past the bowling alley or a Subway restaurant where several of them fled to hide the night of the shooting. Some were not able to wear or throw away clothing they had worn that night. Others were stressed by loud noises.

"After hearing from others with a shared traumatic experience, guests realized they were not alone and not crazy," Schulman wrote. "They were grateful to know that they were experiencing a normal response to an acute trauma."

Over the last year and a half, visitors to the center have begun reporting feeling less anxious, though triggers are still surfacing, Schulman wrote.

"It is vitally important for these services to continue, and for the MRC to continue serving even more people impacted by trauma in the future," she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Copy the Story Link

We believe it's important to offer commenting on certain stories as a benefit to our readers. At its best, our comments sections can be a productive platform for readers to engage with our journalism, offer thoughts on coverage and issues, and drive conversation in a respectful, solutions-based way. It's a form of open discourse that can be useful to our community, public officials, journalists and others.

We do not enable comments on everything  exceptions include most crime stories, and coverage involving personal tragedy or sensitive issues that invite personal attacks instead of thoughtful discussion.

You can read more here about our commenting policy and terms of use. More information is also found on our FAQs.

Show less
Downtown has a new spot for all-you-can-eat sushi.

Sushi i opened Monday in the former Harris Grill space at 245 Fourth Ave. Backed by entrepreneur Jason Hu, the restaurant was supported by the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnerships Downtown Rent Abatement Program, which subsidized selected businesses rent. Representatives from the PDP, as well as Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey, attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the restaurant.

In every city the heart is in downtown, and I feel like people should give Pittsburghs a try, Partner Michelle Chen said. With the support of the mayor and the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, Im so grateful because they want to bring the city back to life.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Click here to read more from our partners at the Pittsburgh Business Times.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW

https://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/news/2025/05/05/sushi-restaurant-opens-downtown.html?ana=wpxi
BRATISLAVA, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico on Wednesday blamed the European Commission's proposal to completely halt energy imports from Russia, calling the plan unacceptable in its current form.

Fico warned that it is simply "economic suicide" to put imports of Russian gas, oil, and nuclear fuel to an end just because "a kind of new Iron Curtain" is being built between the Western world and the Russian Federation.

His remarks came in response to the European Commission's unveiling of the REPowerEU Roadmap on Tuesday, a comprehensive plan to eliminate the EU's reliance on Russian gas by 2027. The roadmap outlined a phased plan to halt imports of Russian natural gas, oil, and nuclear materials across the 27-member bloc.

According to the roadmap, the EU would immediately stop signing new contracts for Russian gas and terminate all existing spot market deals by the end of 2025. All remaining Russian gas imports would cease by the end of 2027.

Such a step would significantly damage the competitiveness of both the EU and Slovakia, Fico stressed.

A day before, Hungary also voiced strong rejection against the EU roadmap. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said the plan would jeopardize Hungary's energy security. 
Honolulu police have arrested a 22-year-old man in connection with an alleged stabbing in Liliha that occurred Tuesday morning.

Police said in a bulletin that at about 6 :10 a.m., the suspect allegedly approached the victim with a knife and during a brief struggle, stabbed him in the neck.

Honolulu Emergency Medical Services treated the victim, a 28-year-old man, and took him to the hospital in serious condition.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Police said the suspect was located, identified and arrested on suspicion of second-degree assault about half an hour later without incident. The suspect remained in custody, pending the investigation.

0 Comments By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our.

Having trouble with comments ? .
Authorities have arrested a man on a murder charge in connection to a Riverview mans overdose death in 2023.

U.S. Marshals arrested Quadrian Jamar Harris, 32, Tuesday in Tampa. Harris had been wanted for about a year on charges including first-degree murder resulting from the distribution of controlled substance, records show.

Harris sold fentanyl to Jordan Andrew Johnson, 23, resulting in his death, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hillsborough deputies and paramedics responded to a home in the 8000 block of Hancock Street on Nov. 19, 2023, and found Johnson unresponsive, according to an arrest affidavit. He died later that day at a local hospital. An autopsy confirmed he died from fentanyl intoxication.

Investigators searched a travel trailer on the property where Johnson had been living and found a baggie containing a substance that tested positive for fentanyl, a syringe and other drug paraphernalia. Detectives searched Johnsons phone and found text messages arranging to buy 3 grams of fentanyl from a contact listed as Jak Jak on Nov. 17.

Detectives pretending to be Johnson used his phone to arrange to buy fentanyl from the person listed as Jak Jak and meet up at a CVS store in Riverview on Nov. 30. Harris showed up and was taken into custody. He had about 4 grams of fentanyl on him, according to the affidavit.

Detectives called the Jak Jak contact number, and a phone that Harris had with him began to ring, showing the caller as a contact listed as Jordy. Harris admitted to knowing Johnson and that he was the Jak Jak contact, but he denied meeting with Johnson on Nov. 17, the affidavit states.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Deputies arrested Harris on charges of trafficking in fentanyl and resisting an officer without violence. He posted bail and was released a couple of days later. He pleaded not guilty in that case, records show.

In late April 2024, detectives obtained a warrant for Harris arrest on a murder charge in Johnsons death. Harris failed to show up for a court date for the trafficking and resisting charges on May 1, 2024, and had been wanted since then.

U.S. Marshals arrested Harris on Tuesday afternoon at the Oaks at Riverview apartments in the 100 block of East Broad Street in Old Seminole Heights, booking records show. He was being held Wednesday without bond.
ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo.  At least one person is in custody Wednesday morning after an overnight pursuit in north St. Louis County.

The pursuit began in St. Ann around 2 a.m. Wednesday morning. According to police, the pursuit crossed the river into Illinois before returning back to Missouri.

Robert Prevost elected the first American pope in history

After an hour, the pursuit came to an end at Burns Avenue and Lackland Road in Overland after authorities deployed spike strips and blew out the cars tires.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Yuri "Buffalo" Abayev, 34, a former Russian army officer who has been identified by Ukraine's Defence Intelligence as one of those involved in the execution of Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs), has been appointed as the Minister of Labour and Social Protection by the authorities in Russia's North Ossetia region.

Source: Russian Telegram channel Astra; Sergei Menyailo, Head of North Ossetia; Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU) on Telegram

Quote from Menyailo: "Yuri Abayev... has been appointed Minister of Labour and Social Development of North Ossetia... As his mentor, I know what he is capable of. I'm sure he will cope."

Abayev and Menyailo

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Photo: Menyailo on Telegram

Details: Menyailo said that Abayev, a Hero of Russia and recipient of the Order of Courage, is "disciplined" and "clearly understands why he is here and what needs to be done".

He has been appointed as part of Putin's Time of Heroes programme, which places participants of the war against Ukraine in government roles.

Abayev fought against Ukraine

Photo: Menyailo on Telegram

Abayev previously served in the 70th Guards Motorised Rifle Regiment and rose to the rank of deputy unit commander.

In June 2024, Defence Intelligence of Ukraine reported that it had identified Russian soldiers involved in the execution of Ukrainian prisoners of war in May 2024 near the village of Robotyne in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The perpetrators were members of an assault group from the 70th Motorised Rifle Regiment (military unit 71718), part of the 42nd Motorised Rifle Division of the 58th Army of the Southern Military District of the Russian Armed Forces.

War criminals involved in executing Ukrainian POWs

Photo: DIU on Telegram

It was reported that at the time of the execution of Ukrainian POWs near Robotyne, the 70th Motorised Rifle Regiment of the Russian Armed Forces was commanded by 34-year-old Lieutenant Colonel Yuri "Buffalo" Abayev.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
After more than three years of searching for a suspect who turned the ending of a night of party bus fun into gunshots and murder in North Miami-Dade, deputies announced they arrested the man responsible on Tuesday.

Around 1:30 p.m., Antwane Demon Johnson, 39, was booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center on charges of second-degree murder with a weapon and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, records show.

During the early morning of August 29, 2021, Rennard Walker, 49, was walking from a private party on a bus with other family members who were celebrating a birthday, Miami-Dade Sheriffs Office said. Nearing their cars in the Golden Glades Park & Ride, 1600 NW Seventh Avenue, gunshots rang out and Walker was hit without provocation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Deputies said Johnson was responsible for the shooting. Johnson has an extensive criminal rap sheet, including some convictions and assigned fines.

He spent three years in prison from 2004 to 2007 after being found guilty on charges of grand theft, aggravated battery, burglary and robbery with a deadly weapon, records show. Then in 2011, he was sentenced to two more years in prison for leaving a crash with injuries and possession of a weapon by a convicted felon.
Editors Note: The video above first aired in January.

ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- A suspect shot by police earlier this year after he allegedly threatened a woman with a hammer has been arrested again on new charges in connection with the incident. Benjamin Fiedler has been charged with Burglary of a Habitation Intended Other Felony and four counts of Criminal Mischief; this is in addition to one count of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and one count of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon Against a Public Servant, charges that were levied against Fiedler in late January.

According to an Odessa Police Department report, on January 30, 2025, officers responded to the 900 block of W 31st Street after a woman called 911 and asked for help. The woman told investigators that she was getting ready to leave her home and was loading up in her vehicle when an unknown man, later identified as Fiedler, approached her while wielding a hammer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The woman said Fiedler looked upset and began running toward her with the hammer, which caused her to fear for her life. The woman said she ran from Fiedler and made it to her vehicle, but Fiedler continued to chase her as she drove way.

In a news release after the shooting, OPD said that when officers responded to the 911 call, they tried to use non-lethal force, but it was not effective. Fiedler allegedly charged at an officer who fired a single shot which struck Fiedler in the abdomen. He was taken to Medical Center Hospital for treatment and was arrested upon his release.

He bonded out of jail in February but was arrested earlier this month on new charges.

A newly released affidavit showed that Fiedler broke the windows out of at least two apartment homes, and that he also damaged another vehicle with the hammer and broke out windows on at least two additional vehicles before police arrived on the scene and tried to subdue him. In all, Fiedler reportedly caused about $30,000 worth of damage and harmed at least one resident who was cut by shattered glass.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fiedler was arrested on a warrant on May 2 and was released from custody the same day after posting a combined $37,5000 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 Yourbasin.
A suspect remains on the loose after following a trespassing call that led to an elementary school lockdown in central Phoenix.Officers responded around 8:40 a.m. May 7 to an alley in the area of 7th Avenue and Osborn Road about multiple trespassers being found. They detained two people while one man fled, according to Phoenix police.

Consequently, nearby Encanto Elementary School, located on Osborn Road and North 15th Avenue, was placed on lockdown while officers tried to find the suspect, according to information from police and the Osborn Elementary School District.

However, the man was not located, police said. No suspect description was immediately available.

Police vehicles and personnel are seen May 7, 2025 in the area of 7th Avenue and Osborn Road in Phoenix after a suspected trespasser fled from officers, leading to a lockdown at nearby Encanto Elementary.

The district said in a message sent to parents that all students and staff were safe and accounted for. Around 9:40 a.m., police told the school the area was cleared and the lockdown was lifted, the district said in its message.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Parents were notified by phone and through the ClassDojo app, the district said.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Phoenix elementary school locked down after trespassing suspect flees
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A woman who told police she stabbed and punched a man because he was making sexual advances toward her is now facing a robbery charge for allegedly stealing the mans van.

Las Vegas Metropolitan police became suspicious about the story Maritza Gonzalez, 32, told them because some evidence told a different story. Police also later learned the victim lied, according to the arrest report.

Las Vegas Metropolitan police received a call shortly after 9:30 p.m. on Monday, April 21, from a woman who said her father was carjacked and severely injured.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The victim told police that he believed he was followed by a car after he left a store where he was playing slot machines. He said the car pulled in front of him, and a woman jumped out, forcing him to stop his van. The report states he told police the woman opened the drivers door and began stabbing him in an attempt to get his keys. The victim said a man also joined in the beating attack, and once the two got his keys, they fled in the van.

The victims daughter used GPS to track the location of a cellphone in the missing van, and officers did locate it on a neighborhood street near E. Lake Mead and N. Lamb boulevards near where Gonzalez lives.

When officers viewed video surveillance footage from the store, it showed the victim standing behind the woman, later identified as Gonzalez, and he appeared to be giving her a hug from behind and giving her some money. The video also showed them leaving the store minutes apart.

After Gonzalez was identified and arrested, she told police the victim offered her a ride home. She said the victim was intoxicated and flirting with her, causing her to fear for her safety, especially when he stopped the van for 20 minutes. Gonzalez said the two got into a fight that resulted in the man getting stabbed and exiting the van. Gonzalez said she drove it to near her home.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After investigating the GPS tracking, it showed the van never stopped for 20 minutes. It was driven from the store to where it was later located, police said. That caused police to become suspicious of Gonzalezs story, along with the fact that she had previous arrests for similar crimes.

When the victim was questioned again, he admitted he lied to police by telling them a man helped Gonzalez beat him up, but no such man existed.

The report said the victim was covered in blood and had a significant cut on his right forearm and received emergency treatment at a local hospital.

Gonzalez, who is facing a robbery charge, remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on May 20, according to records.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  SUX Prides annual Pride Month brunch will be returning to the Hard Rock this June.

The Drag Me to Brunch: Pride Edition event will be returning to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City on June 8.

Luke Day Barbecue returning to support Sioux City Animal Adoption and Rescue

The event serves as a way for the LGBTQIA2S+ community and their allies to have a safe space to enjoy a brunch and drag show.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This years Drag Me to Brunch cast will include performers from the Midwest, such as Aladdin Side, Kassie Kain, Jackie Oh Kennedy, Persephone Shakers, Alessandra Jacobs, Jessica West Bower, and Caludio T. Sol.

Tickets for this years Drag Me to Brunch are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online or in person at the Rock Shop. Attendees must be 21 years of age or older to attend an Anthem show.

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.
A leading university has been accused of telling a Jewish student that a swastika carved into a desk was an ancient Hindu symbol.

The anonymous undergraduate claimed Kings College London dismissed her concerns about the Nazi graffiti in a lecture room.

The allegation emerged in a report into anti-Semitism at British universities that unearthed an unprecedented volume of abuse towards Jewish students.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The student accused the university of failing to investigate who was responsible for carving the graffiti.

In one of my classes, I saw a swastika carved into the desk in front of me, the student said. As a Jewish student, it was shocking and painful.

No investigation

I immediately told my lecturer and filed a complaint through the universitys reporting platform. The universitys response? They claimed it was probably the ancient Hindu symbol, removed the desk and didnt follow up.

There was no investigation, no effort to find out who did it and no accountability.

A spokesman for KCL said it conducted a full investigation into the allegation and did not tell the student that the Swastika was an ancient Hindu symbol in its official response, adding that it took all such reports very seriously.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A greater number of reports of anti-Semitism were made to StandWithUS UK, a pro-Israel education charity, about Kings College London than any other university.

These included a seminar on the Middle East in the Cold War, which one student said turned into a 50-minute discussion defending Hamass actions on October 7.

I raised my objections, but I was told this was protected academic discussion and encouraged to make a complaint through the Kings College London report and support system, the student said.

A first-year undergraduate said when they received verbal abuse, a university wellness adviser suggested I try to understand why the other students were behaving this way towards me.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A Savanta poll of 1,000 students commissioned for the StandWithUS UK report found that 29 per cent said they believed the Oct 7 Hamas terror attacks were an understandable act of resistance. The figure increased to 38 per cent among students at Russell Group universities. Some 33 per cent of students described Oct 7 as a terrorist attack.

The report goes on to call for a public inquiry to be held into anti-Semitism at universities.

This inquiry should gather testimony from Jewish students, review university procedures, assess the role of student unions, and recommend national standards to ensure student safety and institutional accountability, it reads.

Pastoral support

A spokesman for Kings College London said: Racism, anti-Semitism, abuse, incitement and harassment are unacceptable and have no place at Kings, and all reports of such behaviour made to Report and Support (our reporting system) are investigated and followed up with in line with our robust policies and procedures.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We regularly engage with our Israeli, Jewish and wider student societies, and have listened to concerns and provided extensive pastoral support.

In response to concerns for safety, both on campus and across London more generally, we have enhanced security measures to keep our community safe on campus.

Universities UK, which represents 141 universities, said: To ensure that universities are appropriately supported to foster such environments, Universities UK has published guidance on tackling anti-Semitism, as well as other forms of racism, intolerance and harassment.

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.
NEW YORK, May 7 (Xinhua) -- U.S. artificial intelligence (AI) research organization OpenAI plans to invest in efforts outside of the country to develop the infrastructure necessary to run AI systems, building on its Stargate effort focused on AI data centers in the United States, according to Bloomberg News.

Under the new program, launched on Wednesday, the ChatGPT maker will partner with national governments to help with efforts like building out data center capacity. The company will also help countries customize OpenAI's products for specific languages and local needs, part of an effort toward what Chief Executive Officer Sam Altman has called "commercial diplomacy."

The funding for the partnerships will come from OpenAI, as well as the governments in each country, the company said. The goal is for the company to pursue 10 international projects to start, but it declined to name where they'll be located. The company says it will seek to work with states that use OpenAI's technology in democratically friendly ways.

The project, called OpenAI for Countries, came into focus after the Paris AI Action Summit, said Chris Lehane, the company's vice president of global policy. At that conference, multiple international leaders asked OpenAI representatives about how they could create their own version of the OpenAI-led Stargate project, which aims to invest 500 billion U.S. dollars in AI infrastructure in the United States. 
SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA (WJHL)  The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) announced Wednesday that $600,000 in grants will be awarded to 16 school divisions across the state, including two in Southwest Virginia.

The funds will go towards equipment upgrades for career and technical education (CTE) programs in schools and technical centers, the VDOE said in a news release.

When students run: Schools seek elopement strategies

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Each of the 16 school divisions will receive $37,500.

The schools in Southwest Virginia will use the funds to purchase the following:

Russell County Career and Technical Center  Interactive Mobile Force Police Simulator

Smyth County Career and Technology Center  Advanced Patient Management System, Augmented Reality Human Body Learning System and Auscultation Trainer

With this $600,000 investment in modern CTE equipment, were strengthening Virginias future workforce by giving students access to the same tools and technologies used by todays top industries, Virginia Superintendent of Public Instruction Emily Anne Gullickson said in the release. These upgrades will ensure our classrooms mirror real-world industries, giving students hands-on experience that leads directly to high-wage, high-demand careers right here in the Commonwealth. When we invest in career and technical education, we invest in the future of our communities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV)  The Syracuse Police Department is asking for the publics help in finding a suspect involved in a deadly hit-and-run.

Police have identified the suspect as 27-year-old Nigel Chabot-Douglas. They say Chabot-Douglas is accused of fleeing the scene of a deadly hit-and-run that happened on Sunday, March 23, around 10:21 p.m., in the 1200 block of Butternut Street.

Syracuse Police said they believed that Chabot-Douglas may have fled New York. Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Chabot-Douglas is asked to call the Syracuse Police Department Traffic Division at (315) 442-5130 or 911.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 WSYR.
Syrians interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa says his government has engaged in indirect talks with Israel in an attempt to ease escalating tensions between the two nations.

The announcement comes after an escalation in Israeli attacks on Syria last week, including a strike that landed just 500 metres (1,640 feet) from the presidential palace in Damascus on Friday.

Israel claimed its most recent air strikes were a response to what it described as threats to the countrys minority Druze community.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There are indirect talks with Israel through mediators to calm and attempt to absorb the situation so that it does not reach a level that both sides lose control over, al-Sharaa said, reiterating blame on Israel over what he described as its random interventions in Syria.

He also said Damascus was talking to states that communicate with Israel to pressure them to stop intervening in Syrian affairs and bomb some of its infrastructure.

There was no immediate comment from Israeli authorities.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa attend a joint news conference after a meeting at the Elysee Palace in Paris, on May 7, 2025 [Stephanie Lecocq/Pool/AFP]

Al-Sharaas remarks come during a landmark visit to Paris, his first trip to a European country since assuming office after he led opposition fighters in a lightning offensive that toppled longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad in December.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The visit required a special exemption from the United Nations, as al-Sharaa remains under international sanctions due to his previous role as leader of the armed group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a former al-Qaeda affiliate.

Lifting sanctions

Speaking in Paris after meeting President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace, al-Sharaa called for the lifting of economic restrictions on Syria, stating: Nothing justifies maintaining sanctions imposed on the previous regimes.

President Macron said France would consider gradually lifting European Union sanctions if Syria continued along its current path.

I told the president that if he continues on his path, we would do the same, namely by first progressively lifting European sanctions, and then we would also lobby our American partners to follow suit on this matter, Macron said.





The European Union has already lifted some restrictions, while other measures targeting individuals and entities are set to expire on 1 June. Sanctions relief in sectors such as oil, gas, electricity and transport remain crucial for Syria, where the World Bank estimates reconstruction of the country could cost more than $250bn.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite some easing of sanctions by European countries, the Trump administration has been more reserved in its approach to the new Syrian administration.

Macron revealed that he is urging the United States to delay its planned military withdrawal from Syria, arguing that lifting sanctions should be prioritised as a step towards ensuring long-term stability.

Al Jazeeras Natacha Butler, reporting from Paris, said, In return, Macron expects Syrias new government to protect minorities, ensure stability and crack down on what he called terrorist organisations, including ISIS.

Sharaa is here to project a reassuring image to Frances Western allies, who have been a little bit wary and are looking to see what direction the new leadership takes, Butler added.
By John Irish and Sudip Kar-Gupta

PARIS (Reuters) -France's president said on Wednesday he would urge the EU to end sanctions on Syria when they come up for renewal in June and lobby the U.S. to follow suit as well as keep its troops there to ensure Syria's stability.

Speaking alongside Syria's interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who was in Paris for his first trip to Europe since the overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad in December, Emmanuel Macron said it was the international community's duty to ease Syria's economic plight.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I told the president that if he continues on his path, we would do the same. Namely by first progressively lifting European sanctions, and then we would also lobby our American partners to follow suit on this matter," Macron said.

He later added that he would propose EU sanctions be allowed to expire on June 1.

With the World Bank estimating Syria's reconstruction costs at more than $250 billion, Sharaa wants sanctions relief to kickstart an economy battered by 14 years of civil war. During that period, the U.S., European Union and Britain imposed tough sanctions on the Assad government.

The EU has lifted some sanctions, while some others that target individuals and entities are due to expire next month.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Renewing those would require consensus among the 27 member states, although the bloc could opt for a limited renewal or exempt the Central Bank or other entities critical to economic recovery.

"Sanctions are an obstacle we discussed at length. I explained all the consequences and impact and said the sanctions were imposed on previous regime and nothing justifies the sanctions being maintained, Sharaa said.

Sharaa received a U.N. exemption to travel to Paris as he remains on a terrorism sanctions list for his previous leadership of Islamist armed group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a former al Qaeda affiliate.

The two leaders discussed how to ensure Syria's sovereignty and security, treatment of minorities after recent attacks on Alawites and Druze, efforts against Islamic State militants and coordination of aid and economic support, French officials said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The visit marked a diplomatic boost for Sharaa from a Western power at a time when the United States has said it does not recognise any entity as the government of Syria.

Reuters reported in April that Syria had responded to a U.S. list of conditions for potential partial sanctions relief after Washington in January issued a six-month exemption for some sanctions to encourage aid to Syria.

In exchange for fulfilling all U.S. demands, Washington would extend the suspension for two years and possibly issue another exemption, sources told Reuters in March.

Over the past months, France acted as an intermediary between Sharaa and the Kurds as sources said the U.S. would reduce its 2,000 troops in Syria by half over the coming months.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Paris has been holding talks with the U.S. on how to handle Washington's withdrawal and how France could play a bigger role. Macron said he was trying to convince the U.S. to lift sanctions and delay withdrawing troops as that could destabilise Syria in this transitional period.

France welcomed Assad's fall and has increasingly fostered ties with Sharaa's transitional authorities. France last month appointed a charge d'affaires in Damascus with a small team of diplomats as a step towards fully reopening its embassy.

(Reporting by John Irish; Editing by Gareth Jones, Alex Richardson and Cynthia Osterman)
Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa revealed on Wednesday that indirect negotiations are taking place between Syria and Israel via international mediators, in an effort to reduce tensions and avoid further escalation.

There are indirect negotiations with Israel through mediators to calm the situation and prevent the loss of control, al-Sharaa said during a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris following their meeting.

The Syrian leader reaffirmed his governments commitment to the 1974 disengagement agreement, which governs the ceasefire lines between Syria and Israel in the Golan Heights.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The talks come amid heightened tensions following Israels recent military reinforcements in the Golan Heights and ongoing airstrikes on Syrian territories.

Earlier, informed sources in Damascus revealed that the Syrian government is open to dialogue regarding a potential peace agreement with Israel.

Reconciliation is possible, the sources said, but only under specific conditions - namely, the implementation of international agreements and the return of occupied Syrian territories.

Any peace process would need to be based on the establishment of an independent Palestinian state and Israels withdrawal from territories it has occupied since 1967, which includes the Golan Heights, the sources said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The reported Syrian demands align with conditions previously set by Saudi Arabia as part of its own normalization framework with Israel. However, the sources noted that Israel has not responded positively to these overtures.

Instead, it is accused of attempting to impose new terms through military pressure and rejecting the foundation of earlier agreements.

Golan Heights remain a key problem

The Golan Heights, seized by Israel in 1967 and unilaterally annexed in 1981, remain a central issue.

The international community continues to recognize the territory occupied Syrian land.

The recent shift in tone from Damascus could mark a significant change in the regions political dynamics, though observers remain sceptical about the likelihood of progress.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Following a recent political transition in Syria, Israel has reportedly reinforced its military presence in parts of the Golan Heights and continues to conduct airstrikes across Syrian territory, raising tensions despite signs of possible diplomatic overtures.

He confirmed indirect negotiations with Israel through mediators aimed at preserving calm and reaffirmed Syrias adherence to the 1974 disengagement agreement.

"There are indirect negotiations with Israel through mediators to calm the situation and prevent the loss of control."
SPRINGFIELD, Mo.  Mothers Day is right around the corner (Sunday, May 11, if you forgot) and if youre looking to get a special mom some flowers, you might notice a wilt in your wallet.

Most of the flower shops in Springfield have items imported from other countries, whether thats the soil or actual cut flowers.

Because the bulk of the blooms are coming from overseas, you might notice a difference in your Mothers Day bouquets.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They definitely have increased prices, said Rcena Maness, a manager at Flowerama in Springfield. However, we knew that was going to happen.

The new tariffs put in place over the last few months have started to impact local flower shops.

Maness said their prices have changed since the tariffs went into effect.

They have gone up slightly, Maness said. However, its just leaving out a stem here and there. We can still do that $30 bouquet and still just as beautiful. Just maybe you get a little bit less than you did a couple of months ago.

Floweramas cut flowers are not grown locally, they are imported primarily out of South America. However, the greenery that fills the rest of the bouquet comes from Florida.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

80% of flowers consumed in the United States are grown elsewhere. Last year the U.S. imported $2.2 billion worth of cut flowers and greens, the bulk of it from South America.

The fact that they can grow year-round gave them a natural advantage, said Kate Penn, the CEO of the Society of American Florists.

Penn says local, small growers have flourished since the pandemic.

The consumer does want to buy local, Penn said.

To help ease the costs, Maness tells Ozarks First they prepared as much as they could before the tariffs were put in place, stocking up on items like vases.

We did prep a little bit ahead of time with some hard goods and things that came from other countries, Maness said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Maness says if you want to plan ahead to beat the rush of everyone trying to buy flowers over the weekend, their flowers do have a four-day guarantee.

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.
ALBANY  State lawmakers will finally begin voting on New Yorks massive budget package Wednesday, but the public and even politicians themselves arent sure what the spending bills will say.

Thousands of pages of text that make up the budget bill were scheduled to be released starting on Tuesday night, meaning the public and even rank-and-file lawmakers would only have hours to review the package before voting on it.

Some sources are even casting doubt on the $254 billion figure that Gov. Kathy Hochul announced last week.

Thousands of pages of bill language that make up the budget will be released beginning Tuesday evening, meaning the public and even rank-and-file lawmakers themselves will only have mere hours to study the package before voting on it. Hans Pennink

The senators have not seen a budget bill, we are told they are on their way, and were gonna begin voting this week, we havent seen one, State Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt (R-Niagara) said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Let these bills age. Let us dig in. Let us know what were voting for for the people of New York, Ortt added.

Under the state constitution, the legislature must wait three calendar days before voting on a newly introduced bill, such as the state budget.

But that will be bypassed with a message of necessity from Hochul that will allow an early vote on the budget.

Multiple sources have already cast doubt on Gov. Kathy Hochuls $254 billion figure she announced last week. Hans Pennink for NY Post

The governor has taken and abused what should be used only for emergencies and done that to jam budget bills through, North Country state Sen. Mark Walczyk (R-Jefferson) said.

Walczyk sponsored a bill that would prohibit messages of necessity from being used for the state budget.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The state budget process is infamously opaque, with the majority of negotiations conducted behind closed doors with the governor and legislative leaders.

State Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt (R-Niagara) said, The senators have not seen a budget bill, we are told they are on their way, and were gonna begin voting this week, we havent seen one. Houston Chronicle via Getty Images

Last year, state lawmakers and the governor emerged from backroom talks with a surprise decision to overhaul a Medicaid homecare program, the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program.

The proposal they enacted had never been previously revealed or openly discussed.

The overhaul they approved has been fraught with accusations of bid rigging, lawsuits and now has led to homecare workers going without pay.
A man from metro Atlanta who taught in a nearby county has been arrested and charged with threatening to shoot his students and coworkers.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation says Mason Garrett, 22 of Newton County, has been charged with one count of terroristic threats and acts.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Garrett is a teacher at Warren County High School.

Last month, a school resource officer requested the GBI investigate an incident from April 24 involving Garrett.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigators say Garrett threatened to shoot students and staff at the school. Its unclear what led up to the threats.

TRENDING STORIES:

Garrett was arrested and booked into the McDuffie County Jail. He has since bonded out.

Channel 2 Action News has reached out the Warren County School District for a statement.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
by Julia Pierrepont III

LOS ANGELES, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Reactions are strong to the Trump Administration's proposed 2026 budget cuts released last week, which include deep cuts to the national park and forest services that could drastically reduce staff and close parks nationwide.

"This is the beginning of the end for America's legendary national park and forest services," Julie S., a forest ranger with the national forest service in California, told Xinhua on Tuesday.

"With so many staff laid off, who is going to maintain the parks, reduce wildfire risk and protect the safety of our wildlife and park visitors?" she asked.

If approved, the budget would cut more than 1 billion U.S. dollars from the National Park Service -- making it the largest funding reduction in the agency's 109-year history.

U.S. President Donald Trump also proposed turning some park sites over to state control, which could remove them from the National Park System entirely -- a move never before attempted by any U.S. president in history, since states typically don't have the means on their own to support them.

"Our national parks and forests are a legacy for the American people and the entire world," Professor Ed M., a resident of Colorado, told Xinhua on Monday. He took his kids to enjoy a different magnificent park each summer.

"National parks were first started in 1909 by a great American president, wilderness enthusiast, Teddy Roosevelt, then nationalized in 1916 by President Woodrow Wilson as an antidote to the horrors of WWI."

"Now, Trump will go down in history as the clueless loser who destroyed them," he lamented. "One man shouldn't have the power to ruin it for all the rest of us."

American national parks, with their iconic, unspoiled natural beauty and unique ecosystems, are widely considered the scenic benchmarks for nature parks all over the world.

"What's next," worried Siri S., a visitor from Scandinavia. "Is Trump going to turn the Grand Canyon into a landfill dump?"

Trump's proposal came at a time when national parks are more popular than ever. In 2024, over 331 million people visited national parks across the country.

If these budget cuts go through, the result would be fewer rangers, shuttered visitor centers, canceled programs, and a serious decline in park maintenance.

The National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service both have already lost thousands of employees. More than 2,400 National Park Service staff -- over 10 percent of the workforce -- are gone, many due to forced resignations or early retirements.

The U.S. Forest Service was hit even harder, losing about 3,400 employees, including rangers, trail crews, and wilderness responders.

The impact of these layoffs is already being felt. Parks have to reduce their hours, closed visitor centers, and canceled tours. At some sites, trails have been shut down indefinitely. Long lines of cars waited to enter the Grand Canyon over Presidents' Day weekend because there weren't enough workers to staff the gates.

Theresa Pierno, head of the National Parks Conservation Association, called this budget cut "the most extreme and destructive" in the National Park Service's history.

She said it threatens the very idea of national parks -- places that are meant to be protected forever for everyone to enjoy.

According to Pierno, giving park sites to states isn't just risky -- it's a betrayal of the public's trust. States often don't have the funding or resources to manage these lands properly, and if they can't afford it, sites may close or even be privatized.

Many of the 430+ places managed by the National Park Service aren't traditional "national parks" but include monuments, lake shores, battlefields, and seasides -- like the Canaveral National Seashore in Florida and the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan. These places are important for both natural beauty and cultural history, and handing them off to states could mean the end of their protection.

In Washington state, wilderness ranger Kate White used to carry hundreds of pounds of trash out of the mountains each summer and helped rescue hikers in danger. Now her job could go, and she feared for the safety of visitors and the health of the fragile ecosystems she once helped protect.

She said on her Instagram page that it hurts to read the words "the Agency finds, based on your performance, that you have not demonstrated that your further employment at the Agency would be in the public interest."

A report from PBS shared White and other U.S. Forest Service rangers' struggling situation. Many of them still in their probationary period received notice on Feb. 13 that they were fired by the Trump administration, but on May 5 those workers got word they had been temporarily reinstated for 45 days by the U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board.

There's no information yet to indicate whether the positions might be eliminated again after the 45-day period, and these workers worried about what impact a potential mid-season disruption might have on recreation and public safety.

In Yosemite, biologist Andria Townsend lost her job tracking endangered species like the Sierra Nevada red fox and the Pacific fisher -- animals already on the brink of extinction. Without monitoring and protection, their future is bleak.

"I am devastated for myself, but also for the team of amazing biologists I supervised, the incredible programs we worked so hard on, and the resources that will suffer across the country because of this," she wrote on her facebook page. "I want to add the administration is claiming they only fired 'poor performers.' That is a lie."

She noted that since her position and projects were all paid by grant funds from local nonprofits, "not a single dime of taxpayer money is being saved by firing me."

Another growing concern is fire safety. While wildland firefighters haven't been laid off, many of the people who help evacuate visitors and check backcountry areas for danger have been. Without them, fire prevention efforts could be seriously hampered, especially during the dry season when wildfires are most common.

"Trump is always complaining about stopping wildfires. Then he needs to put his money where his mouth is and fund the forest service that helps protect our national parks and forests and keep park visitors safe," forest ranger Julie S. told Xinhua.

She's also frustrated that the cuts will mean fewer positions are available for forest and park employees to be promoted over time as part of a normal career trajectory.

"With no opportunities for promotion, that's like asking park or forest rangers to sacrifice their futures," she said.

Local economies around parks could also take a hit. Tourism brings billions of dollars to towns near national parks, and fewer visitors could mean major losses for small businesses that rely on that traffic.

All of this adds up to a future where parks are less accessible, less protected, and less safe. Advocates are urging Congress to reject the proposed cuts and protect the parks Americans love.

These lands belong to everyone -- and unless action is taken soon, some of the most beautiful and historic places in the country could be changed or lost forever, they argued. "It takes over a hundred years to grow a tree. Once it's gone, its gone."

"The Chinese have a wise saying," historian Sam Norton told Xinhua on Tuesday. "The best time to plant a tree is twenty years ago. The next best time is today." 
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  Teachers are one step closer to getting a pay raise after bills advanced out of the Louisiana House Monday.

The legislation would pave the way for a $2,000 a year raise for all teachers. The plan under this legislation is to pay down debt in the teachers retirement fund. A constitutional amendment would have to go before the voters next year.

House Bill 466, sponsored by Rep. Josh Carlson (R-Lafayette), now heads to the Senate Committee on Education. Companion bill House Bill 473, sponsored by Rep. Julie Emerson (R-Carencro), goes to the Senate Committee on Finance next.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In this bill, it would require not only that savings go toward pay raises, but also for the legislature to backfill the money that would make them whole, so all teachers would recognize that $2,000 pay increase, Carlson said in the House on May 12.

Emerson, who spearheaded the effort, told committee members in early May how funding would be made available in the latest group of bills by paying down teacher retirement system debt.

This money that is locked up in this fund will be utilized to pay down the roughly $9 billion unfunded accrued liability, which is the TRSO, which is the teacher retirement fund. So I want to be clear that we are paying down that debt for them, which makes TRSO more solvent, it helps them financially moving forward, said Emerson.

How much are Louisiana teachers making? Report explains

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Louisiana Federation of Teachers and School Employees President Larry Carter told members the federation supports the effort in spirit, but there are concerns, especially with timing.

This creates a possible gap where educators could face a pay cut even if the amendment ultimately doesnt pass, said Carter.

Gov. Jeff Landry told teachers it would be back to the drawing board in April after a constitutional amendment on the ballot in the March 29 election failed. He said the measure would have paid off retirement debt and increased your pay with those savings, outlining a proposed $2,000 annual salary increase for teachers and a $1,000 raise for support staff.

By eradicating nearly 25% of the total debt in the teacher retirement system, the Amendment not only bolstered the security of your retirement benefits but also saved taxpayers over a billion dollars in interest payments, Landry wrote in the letter to teachers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gov. Jeff Landry celebrates as Louisiana students rankings move up in Nations Report Card

Latest 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 Louisiana First News.
After police arrested a 14-year-old in a fatal St. Paul stabbing last month, a 17-year-old now is also accused, according to court documents filed this week.

JayMier K. Givens, 19, of St. Paul, was killed in the Daytons Bluff neighborhood in March. An autopsy found hed been stabbed 22 times, with most of the wounds to his back and one to his neck.

Officers responded about 11:30 p.m. March 31 to Sixth Street near Birmingham Street. Givens was found collapsed near an address he wasnt connected with, police have said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigators talked with Givens family and they said he came home about 9 p.m. on March 31, and left later in the evening to smoke with friends who were said to be Jeremy and another teen, according to a juvenile petition filed Monday against the 17-year-old.

Police were also told the two teens stayed at a residence a few blocks from where Givens was found. They identified Jeremy Joe Davila and a 14-year-old as residents of the address.

The Ramsey County Attorneys Office charged Davila with aiding and abetting intentional second-degree murder, not premediated. Davila turned 17 on March 31, the day of the homicide.

Teen says they texted victim to meet

Givens cellphone showed he received a call at 10:04 p.m. on March 31. There were also multiple text messages between 10:07 and 10:34 p.m., during which someone from the number said they had a stolen Kia vehicle and wanted Givens to come smoke n chill.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After police arrested the 14-year-old for a second time, he said theyd texted Givens and fabricated the story about the stolen Kia  because they knew it would interest Givens. He stated, that was a coverup and there was no car.

The mother of Davila, who was also the foster mother of the 14-year-old, told police she hadnt seen either teen since April 1, the day that Davila told the family they needed to leave because it was not safe and saying something about retaliation, according to the petition.

Investigators interviewed the 14-year-olds girlfriend, who first said she only knew of Givens. She later told police that Givens threatened over Snapchat to kill her 1-year-old son, according to the petition.

The 14-year-old told police that on March 31  when he, Davila and Givens met up and were smoking marijuana  he asked Givens why he said that stuff about his girlfriends son, who he regarded as his stepson.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said Givens pulled a knife on him. Davila, who the 14-year-old said always carried a knife, pulled a knife and stepped in to protect him, the petition said of the teens account.

The 14-year-old said Davila stabbed Givens, which caused Givens to drop his knife, the petition continued. He said he took Givens knife and also stabbed Givens.

Knives, clothing found in basement rafters

Police located surveillance footage in a large perimeter around the crime scene. Three people were seen walking in the area starting at 10:51 p.m. on March 31. At 11:08 p.m., surveillance footage showed three people coming from a wooded area west of Harding High School and crossing over Sixth Street to the area where Givens was later found unresponsive. At 11:10 p.m., surveillance video showed two people running from the area.

On April 8, police carried out a search warrant at the address linked to Davila and the 14-year-old on Margaret Street between Hazelwood and Germain streets. They found two knives hidden in basement rafters. The knives have been submitted to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension for forensic analysis.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Police located two sets of clothing hidden in the rafters, and they matched the clothing that the two people were seen wearing in surveillance footage.

Police arrested the 14-year-old at his school on April 8. He said he and Davila met Givens between their homes on March 31, but had gone their separate ways.

The 14-year-old was released without charges on April 11, before he was arrested again last Thursday.

On April 30, Davilas mother turned him over to law enforcement on a previously issued probable cause pick-up and hold. She said she hadnt seen or heard from her son between April 1 and April 29.

14-year-olds journal described murder, officials say

Davila told police various accounts of what happened on March 31 and none initially involved Givens. He later said he and the 14-year-old met with Givens that night; he said he didnt remember how he got home. He also said he didnt know anything about the knives that were found in the rafters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When police went to arrest the 14-year-old last Thursday at his temporary foster home, his foster parents said hed grown anxious in recent days and they provided him with a notebook so he could write his thoughts. Police obtained a search warrant and found the notebook.

Related Articles

The petition said there were multiple pages of writing describing the circumstances of Givens murder, including the words, Why you aint fight for yo life when I poke u wit dis knife.

When investigators were talking to the 14-year-old, he asked to call his biological mother. Police called her on speakerphone. She asked her son about the passages in the notebook and he said, I wrote what I think happened and told investigators that it wasnt supposed to play out like that, according to the petition.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Davila remains in custody and the county attorneys office is seeking to have his case moved to adult court. His attorney did not immediately return a message seeking comment Wednesday.

A Ramsey County Attorneys Office spokesman said he couldnt provide information about the 14-year-old due to Minnesota data privacy laws.
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW)  One of the victims in last months deadly Ocean Boulevard officer-involved shooting in Myrtle Beach said Wednesday she was wounded by a bullet fired from an officers gun.

Fifteen-year-old Serenity Chavis was among the 11 people hurt in the April 26 incident in which Jerrius Davis, 18, of Bennettsville, was killed after authorities said he opened fire in a crowd of people gathered on the boulevard.

Deadly officer-involved shooting at least 25th instance of gun violence on Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle Beach since 2020

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When the police shot me, I didnt feel the bullet, Chavis said at a news conference attended by her mother and a nationally known civil rights activist. My leg just gave out, just like I couldnt run no more, so Im trying to drag my leg and go, and I just couldnt do it no more. I just gave out, and I laid back, and when I laid back, I started screaming for help, and two officers came.

Chavis described the moments after calling for help.

The one that shot me stood in front of me and told me that he was sorry. He just kept saying that he was sorry, Chavis said. And I just kept saying, Can yall please help me? And I asked [If I was going to] die and he said No, [youre not going to] die. They were [going to] put me in handcuffs until I told them Im an innocent bystander. Thats what happened.

Chavis mom, Kendra Malloy, said she just wants answers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ive been left in the blind, Malloy said. You know, nobody has come up front. The police department has not contacted me. No police report. We were in the hospital for five days. Nobody reached out to us, like, theyve said nothing, you know, like were nobody.

After the news conference, News13 asked Myrtle Beach police and the SLED about Serenitys claim that she was shot by an officer and received the following response from police:

This is an active investigation being led by SLED, spokesman Randolph Angotti said. As the facts about this incident become available from SLED, we will share them with our community.

In a devastating turn of events just six days after the Ocean Boulevard shooting, Malloys 18-year-old son was wounded in another shooting at an after-prom party in Laurinburg, North Carolina, she wrote in a GoFundMe post. His injuries were not life-threatening.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As a mother, I am doing everything in my power to be strong for both of my children, Malloy wrote. But the emotional, physical, and financial burden is overwhelming.

Laurinburg police are still investigating that shooting, which was one of two that occurred there late Saturday night and early Sunday morning.

The shooting almost immediately garnered the attention of the civil rights group, True Healing Under God, or T.H.U.G., whose founder, John C. Barnett, organized the news conference at the Myrtle Beach police headquarters on N. Oak Street, a few blocks north of where the shooting happened.

In a release ahead of the news conference, the group said it expected to meet with Myrtle Beach Mayor Brenda Bethune, who, along with Police Chief Amy Prock, has drawn criticism in the days after the Saturday night shooting in the busy downtown business district, where millions of tourists visit every summer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division was called in to handle the investigation because the shooting involved a Myrtle Beach police officer. Davis mother, Jaeishala Fox, told News13 last Thursday that her family had met with SLED investigators.

The agency said last week that Davis was armed and shooting into a crowd, an allegation that his mother disputes. Three Myrtle Beach police officers were placed on paid leave after the shooting.

Barnett, who created T.HU.G. after his brother was murdered by his cousin in 1994, has handled multiple high-profile cases: one involving an Emmett Till demonstration in Raleigh, North Carolina; one that involved the torture of two black men by six local sheriffs deputies in Rankin County, Mississippi; and one tied to the death of Shanquella Robinson of Charlotte, North Carolina.

* * *

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dennis Bright is the Digital Executive Producer at News13. He joined the team in May 2021. Dennis is a West Virginia native and a graduate of Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. Follow Dennis on Facebook, X, formerly Twitter, and read 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 WBTW.
Residents at a Gardner apartment complex have 48 hours to move out after the city condemned the property due to several safety concerns.

Aspen Place Apartments, a 200-unit complex on 101 Aspen St. in southwest Johnson County, has been declared unfit for habitation by Gardner due to the propertys water infrastructure, which has severely deteriorated over time.

The outdated system has become increasingly unreliable, with frequent pipe ruptures and inconsistent water service, Gardner Communications Manager Daneeka Marshall-Oquendo said in an emailed statement on Tuesday. Critically, it no longer provides sufficient water flow for fire suppression, severely limiting emergency services ability to respond effectively and posing a serious risk to residents safety.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Deteriorating roadways on the property hinder emergency response vehicles, including fire trucks and ambulances, from accessing the complex safely, the citys statement added.

Google Earth screenshot overhead of the Aspen Place Apartments.

Marshall-Oquendo told The Star in an interview that an emergency response vehicle recently sunk into the ground near the apartments and couldnt move for several hours.

That was the safety issue, if you cant have emergency services get into the area youre putting people in danger, she said, adding that they couldnt risk a fire or another emergency happening with no way for responders to access the area.

After the 48 hours expire, residents can return to their properties to retrieve their things in daylight hours, but cant stay in the complex overnight, Marshall-Oquendo said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a post on Citizens for the Future of Gardner, a public Facebook group for Gardner residents, Mayor Todd Winters said that the city doesnt provide utilities for the property, and the roads are privately owned.

The city has been on site multiple times and issued citations, but to this point, the issues have not been addressed in a reasonable manner, Winters said on Facebook. As a result of this, we have no choice but to condemn the properties until such time as the issues can be resolved.

Aspen Place Apartments wasnt immediately available for comment.

Similarly on the Missouri side of the state line, nearly 100 tenants had to relocate from south Kansas Citys Cloverleaf Apartments after the Kansas City Fire Department cited multiple fire violations and declared the complex unliveable.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Winters said on Facebook that he was in meetings on Monday with Gardner, Johnson County and federal officials to make the decision and that city staff have worked over the last few days to assemble resources to assist those who are affected.

I am very aware of the incredible challenges this will bring to many of the residents, he said on Facebook. On a personal level, this is gut-wrenching for me that we, as a city, must remove people (who did nothing wrong) from their residences. I have tried to come up with alternative options but nothing is viable.

Aspen residents needing assistance can call the Gardner hotline at (913) 884-2700.

This is a developing story. Residents interested in sharing their experiences with the condemnation should email toconnor@kcstar.com.
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL)  Rules governing Ballad Healths state-authorized hospital monopoly have just undergone their biggest revision after more than a year of negotiations between Tennessee officials and Ballad.

Homelessness increased in Northeast TN, according to 2025 PIT Count

The Tennessee Department of Health released the fifth version of the terms of certification today. Those cover everything from quality of care measures and access to care to capital spending, charity care, public input and how much Ballad can charge insurance companies.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a news release, the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) said the revisions cover five key areas: prioritizing quality of care, overall system scoring, rural hospitals, charity care, and listening sessions with the public.

News Channel 11 spoke to Ballad CEO Alan Levine during those negotiations. At that time, earlier this year, he said the final sticking points had more to do with language than significant differences.

Fundamentally, were all in agreement, Levine said. We want to see access and quality of care be the guideposts for what were doing here.

The Tennessee rural hospitals in Greeneville, Elizabethton, Rogersville, Erwin, Mountain City and Sneedville will now stay open at least two years longer than the previous commitment and four years longer if the federal government okays a statewide proposal to increase TennCare reimbursements.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you go to any rural community thats lost their hospital, first of all, mortality rates go up in that community, Levine told News Channel 11 during a late January interview about the negotiations with TDH.

The economy in that community suffers. Those are good paying jobs for that community. Access to physicians deteriorates dramatically because the hospital does support those physicians. So I think people in the rural communities are very concerned about the loss of their hospitals.

The terms of certification exist because Ballad operates under a Certificate of Public Advantage (COPA) granted by the state of Tennessee, which enabled the 2018 merger of formerly competing hospital systems Wellmont and Mountain States. Because that created an inpatient hospital monopoly that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) opposed, the parties had to seek whats called state action immunity from both Tennessee and Virginia to avoid facing an FTC lawsuit.

For more than a year we have worked with the Tennessee Attorney Generals Office and Ballad Health to ensure the COPA continues to provide a public benefit in meeting Northeast Tennessees health needs, TDH Commissioner Dr. Ralph Alvarado said in a news release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Our effort and progress serve as a model for health care in Tennessee, the Appalachia Region, and the entire nation. It is vitally important we get it right.

TDH will prepare a narrative review for the assessment of Ballads performance through the end of the companys 2025 fiscal year June 30, the release said. This is to allow Ballad time to implement the new, numerical COPA performance scoring process for the 2026 Fiscal Year, beginning on July 1.

In a statement released immediately after the TDH release, Ballad called the changes thoughtful and reasonable.

Our goals are the same, Ballads release reads. At a time when 150 rural hospitals have closed throughout the nation, and 700 more have been identified as being in danger of closure, keeping rural hospitals open for our communities is at the core of why the COPA was created. Access to high quality care is a goal everyone shares.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is a developing story.

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.
ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)- On June 19th, 1999 then Governor George W. Bush signed the Safe Haven Law, also known as the Baby Moses Law, making Texas the first in the nation to enact legislation that protects parents from some legal ramifications in the event they feel they cannot properly care for their infant child that is 60 days old or younger, and must surrender them to the proper authorities. That law was aimed at lowering the amount of infants that were illegally abandoned or in extreme cases, left to die.

Abilene Attorney at Law Brandi Young of Keith & Lorfing Law Firm says the firm has had occasions of representing those that find themselves in legal trouble for infant surrender situations, explaining what exactly some of those parents or guardians might be going through.

What we see a lot of times, I think on the news, are very vulnerable women giving birth to children in not hospital settings, not knowing what to do. You know, unfortunately, we see babies that are left in unsafe conditions, maybe dont get the medical care that they need or care that they need. Our legislators saw that, you know, we are not protecting our most vulnerable, our newborn children, Young said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Authored and introduced by former Texas State Representative Geanie Morrison, the Baby Moses Law removed some of that fear of surrender for parents that felt they could not provide for their infant child. In 2023, the law was revised to allow for that surrender to a dedicated emergency response infant care provider to be anonymous as well.

Fear of judgement, fear of prosecution, fear of going to jail whatever the fears may be were stopping some of those parents, some of those mothers from taking the child to a hospital, taking the child to a fire station, taking the child to EMSadmitting and accepting that I cant care for this newborn, but Im going to do the best for him or her is really the best gift that any parent or guardian could give their child, said Young.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The implementation of Safe Haven Baby boxes take that mission a step further, by allowing the parent or guardian to surrender their infant in a temperature controlled environment that will notify the proper care professional immediately so that the child can be retrieved without the guardian having to come face to face with that care professional, further removing fear of judgment that might keep the guardian from surrendering their child safely.

Particularly here in the Big Country, we want to support that and we want to give absolutely every chance to those newborn that they can have to know that were here, not to judge, not to second guess, candidly, not even really try to figure out why. But we want you to know youve got options, Young expressed.

Local pro-life nonprofit raises $20k to install safe haven box in Abilene for anonymous infant surrender

Today all 50 states including the Puerto Rico and the District of Colombia have Safe Haven laws on the books. The first Baby Box in Texas was installed in Abilene just one year ago at Abilene Fire Station 7, 431 N Pioneer Drive. Subsequently 5 other baby boxes have been installed around the state with two in the Lubbock Area. Corsicana, Palestine, and Conroe each having one.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Abilene becomes 1st in Texas to host anonymous program for parents to surrender infants: Safe Haven Baby Box

Since 2017 nearly 60 infants in the US have been surrendered by baby box. In addition, the National Safe Haven Crisis line has helped with more that 150 In-person surrenders. That hotline can be reached by dialing 1-866-992-2291 (BABY1).

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 KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com.
AUSTIN (KXAN)  Texas lawmakers are reviewing legislation that would require people to show proof of citizenship to register to vote.

Some activist groups said theyre concerned the policy outlined in Senate Bill 16 and House Bill 5337 will end up blocking eligible Texans from voting.

The bills do not provide a way to submit documentation online. It can only be done in person, through mail or over the phone, according to SB 16.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Under the legislation, voters would need to provide the following when showing up at the polls, as stated in SB 16:

a copy of a U.S. passport;

a passport card;

a certified copy of a birth certificate issued by a U.S. state or territory;

United States citizenship papers issued to the person

identification issued by the U.S. agency responsible for citizenship and immigration; or

for citizens abroad, a certificate of report of birth or consular report of birth abroad issued by the U.S. Department of State

Texas has more than 18 million registered voters, according to The Texas Tribune.

We need to find a way to allow people to make voting easier, not harder, not creating barriers, said Chase Bearden, executive direction with Coalition of Texans with Disabilities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Supporters of the legislation, like Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, said the policy will maintain Texas election integrity, allowing citizens to be confident in the outcome of state elections.

This issue is not controversial; only citizens should vote in Texas elections. I thank Sen. Hughes for his continued leadership in ensuring Texas elections are more secure than ever, Patrick said in a statement on April 1.

SB 16 passed in the Senate in early April and is pending in the House elections committee, along with House Bill 5337.

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.
AUSTIN (Nexstar)  The Texas House of Representatives passed a bill Tuesday that will make it harder for homeowners to block projects to build new homes near their neighborhood.

House Bill 24  introduced by State Rep. Angelia Orr, R  Angelina  will weaken a 100-year-old law to help increase the amount of high-density housing, a Republican initiative to address skyrocketing house prices in Texas.

Since the 2020 pandemic, housing prices in Texas have gone up about 40% across the state, said Emily Brizzolara-Dove, policy advisor for Texas 2036, which is a nonpartisan public policy research group.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Brizzolara-Dove attributes some of the pricing issues with a lack of housing supply. Weve got a big mismatch in supply and demand, Brizzolara-Dove said. So, efforts to reform land use  to infuse neighborhoods with more housing, more diverse housing  are going to be critical to Texas success going forward.

Local governments can change the zoning code for residential areas to allow for multi-family housing, like duplexes or apartment complexes. The city of Austin instituted major land code changes in 2024 to allow for up to three housing units on a property zoned for single-family use.

However, under current law Texas property owners have been able to block zoning changes that could create more housing. The law said if 20% of property owners within 200 feet of a proposed zoning change sign a petition it forces a governing body, like a city council, to approve that zoning change by a supermajority, instead of the standard simple majority.

It is very, very good at killing housing and it is ripe for reform, Brizzolara-Dove said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

HB 24 amends those petition requirements to 60% of the property owners within the 200 foot threshold, and even if that number of signatures is met, it allows a governing body to still be able to pass a zoning change with a simple majority.

For property owners whose property is within the zoning change proposal, the 20% petition and supermajority rules still apply. The bill passed 83-56 after many delays. The Texas Senate passed similar legislation  Senate Bill 844  in April.

State Rep. John Bryant, D  Dallas, did raise concerns with Orr during floor debate this week. Bryant argues it will make it harder for property owners to block commercial and industrial developments from being built near their homes.

A simple majority vote could take away the zoning that they relied on when they made their biggest investment in their home, and suddenly they have an industrial or commercial use right next door, Bryant said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Description

LTV Studios is excited to announce the spring launch party for Hamptons Summer Songbook by the Sea on Wednesday, May 7th at 6 p.m. at Manhattans Triad Theater (158 West 72nd Street, 2nd floor). Produced by LTVs Creative Director Josh Gladstone and independent producer Donna Rubin, Hamptons Songbook by the Sea is a featured series this season at LTV Studios showcasing performances by the worlds best cabaret and Broadway artists. The spring launch party offers the opportunity to preview some of the performers lined up for the series at LTV this season.

Independent producer Donna Rubin has a 30-year history with The Triad Theater, and will be returning to the Hamptons for her second season producing with the Summer Songbook season at LTV. Were so excited to build upon what we started last summer. We have a great lineup and look forward to seeing you at LTV!  shares Donna Rubin.

Josh Gladstone, LTV's Creative Director, adds "We launched Hamptons Summer Songbook By The Sea last season after a 5-show pilot series the year before. Both summers proved resoundingly that there's passion and excitement for cabaret on the East End. These timeless tunes never go out of style - and there's new material being added to the American Songbook every year. What a treat to build upon LTV's success as cabaret's new home in the Hamptons, returning for another gorgeous summer hosting some of the finest artists in the business. Legendary performers, fresh interpretations, an intimate space, champagne on a summer night - the perfect, artful restorative for heart, mind and soul!"

The series will kick off Saturday July 5th with legendary songstress Marilyn Maye. Hosted in the intimate, funky and unique environs of a reconfigured, industrial black-box television Studio 3 at LTV in East Hampton, Hamptons Summer Songbook by the Sea is complete with state-of-the art lighting and audio merging with the romantic ambiance of cafe' table seating, modular staging and a gorgeous Baby Grand. Each Songbook performance offers an up-front, live encounter with legendary songs and songwriters as interpreted by today's finest performers. The lineup includes: Lee Roy Reams, Liz Callaway, Eric Comstock, Barbara Fasano, David Leopold, Steve Ross, Karen Murphy, Maria Abous, KT Sullivan, Natalie Douglas, Marta Sanders, Craig Rubano and more still to be announced, several of whom will make a special advance appearance at the launch party at The Triad Theater. The approximate running time is 75 minutes.

Cost to attend the launch party is $75 per person plus a two drink minimum per person. Tickets may be purchased here https://bit.ly/3G4AkjG. Attendees at the spring launch party will be rewarded with a special discount code for use towards the summer series ticket purchases.
The Texas House on Monday advanced legislation that would reduce the influence of faculties on curriculum and hiring and increase oversight at public colleges and universities.

During a last-minute meeting in the Agriculture Museum that was not broadcast, the House Higher Education Committee voted 6-5 to advance Senate Bill 37 as well as another measure, Senate Bill 2972, to restrict protesting on college campuses.

Both measures are authored by Republican Sen. Brandon Creighton of Conroe. It will probably take at least a day before SB 37 and SB 2972 reaches the House Calendars Committee, which is responsible for prioritizing which bills get considered by the full House. Sunday is the final day the House can distribute a daily calendar that includes Senate bills.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Earlier this month, state Rep. Matt Shaheen, who is carrying SB 37 in the lower chamber, explained to the House Higher Education Committee how he'd like to change the wide-ranging Senate bill.

As originally written, SB 37 would prohibit professors from teaching students to adopt the idea that any race, sex, ethnicity or social, political or religious belief is superior to another. It would also set up a system by which degree programs could be eliminated if the state determines they do not provide a return on investment for students. The bill would give the governor-appointed regents who oversee each university system in the state the authority to approve every job posting for tenured faculty in liberal arts, communications, education and social work. Finally, it would allow anyone to report schools for violation of the law. The bill already cleared the state Senate.

In the House, Shaheen, a Plano Republican, proposed removing references to social and political beliefs and the rating system. His version also only allows regents to overturn the hirings of provosts, vice presidents and deans, and limits who can report violations of the law to students and those involved with the university.

The bill is part of an effort by Republicans to address what they see as a liberal bias in higher education. They are pushing back on professors who, in recent years, not only asserted their authority to teach topics like critical race theory, but also criticized their universities for sending police to arrest pro-Palestinian protesters on campus. It follows a 2023 ban on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Higher education advocates and experts have raised alarms about the bill in part because they believe it invites political interference that will ultimately hurt the states colleges and universities. Dozens of other states efforts to reform higher education, such as the Stop the Woke Act in Florida, are tied up in court after professors and students sued, alleging those laws infringed on their First Amendment right to free speech.

Shaheen and Creighton said they want to ensure institutions are providing degrees of value affordably and efficiently.

Democrats argue the institutions are already working toward, and in some cases achieving, that goal.

Reference

Read the Texas House's proposed changes to Senate Bill 37

(166.7 KB)

Reference

Read a comparison between the Texas Senate and House's versions of SB 37

(35.9 KB)

Shaheen laid out his changes on May 6 at the House Higher Education Committee

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Monday, Shaheen proposed more changes to the bill, including giving an ombudsman the power to subpoena universities for information when it is investigating them for violating this or other state laws and requiring university president search committees contain at least two regents with one serving as chair.

Eighty-nine people registered to give testimony on May 6, 80 against the bill and six for it. More would have testified, but state Rep. Terry M. Wilson, the chair of the committee, cut off witness registration early. Most of the witnesses were professors who said they opposed any form of the legislation because it usurped their role in developing curricula. They also said it would have a chilling effect in their classrooms.

Valerie Martinez-Ebers, a political science professor at the University of North Texas, said the state's DEI ban has already led her to self-censor and driven her colleagues to teach in other states.

If SB 37 passes, Ill be even more afraid to say anything about viewpoints, much less the mistreatment of minority groups, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Paola Martinez, a student at the University of Texas at El Paso, spoke in favor of the bill. She said she was required to take a womens studies course that she believed would neither be relevant to her political science degree nor advance her career plans. She said the course presented critical race theory  an academic framework that looks at the role of institutions and legal systems in the countrys history with racism  as fact and without offering alternative viewpoints.

Thats not education, thats indoctrination, Martinez said.

Maggie DiZanza, who recently graduated from UT-Austin and is now a legislative aide for the Texas State Employees Union, said the womens studies classes she took were invaluable. She said she would not have chosen to go to college in Texas had SB 37 been law.

These arent just academic exercises. These are transferable communication, critical thinking and collaboration skills that are essential for our states educators, health care providers, public servants and researchers, DiZanza said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Testimony ended just before 1 a.m. May 7. Afterward, Democrats on the committee raised concerns that the vague language in the bill would allow regents to eliminate degrees that lead to valuable careers but are not always paid well, such as teachers. Shaheen said the bill purposefully does not specify how regents should measure the value of a degree to give them the flexibility to address their communitys workforce needs.

I think we got to trust our institutions to make the right decisions, he said.

Someone in the gallery said, We dont trust them.

The Texas Tribune partners with Open Campus on higher education coverage.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Disclosure: University of North Texas 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.

First round of TribFest speakers announced! Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Maureen Dowd; U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-San Antonio; Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker; U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff, D-California; and U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Dallas are taking the stage Nov. 1315 in Austin. Get your tickets today!

Correction, May 20, 2025 at 12:53 p.m. : An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated Paola Martinez is a student at the University of Texas at Austin. She studies at the University of Texas at El Paso.
(NewsNation)  Texas is at the center of a fight over whether state leaders or local communities get to decide budget priorities and solve problems.

The debate is over who controls the purse strings and what cities and counties can spend money on.

Republican lawmakers want the authority to cut off funding to cities if their priorities and programs dont align with state laws. Theyre trying to keep left-leaning policies from being enacted on the local level.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Travelers can fly without REAL ID for now, but with extra steps

Senate Bill 2058 would give the state the power to control what gets funded in cities and counties across Texas. The bills supporters say this is the best way to crack down on communities that are breaking state law.

Despite the legislation, it has become clear that some cities and counties are still ignoring state laws, and a stronger enforcement mechanism is needed, said Republican Sen. Brandon Creighton.

The list of laws or programs Republicans are taking issue with includes financial assistance for the needy, measures to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, DEI initiatives and decriminalizing small amounts of drugs like marijuana.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some Republicans even want to restrict how cities install bike and bus lanes.

Democrats are pushing back, saying local governments should be allowed to use their funds however they see fit.

Former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio says he met with Trump

Whether the county is in the wrong or in the right, they will be deprived of the revenue to which theyre entitled, their own sales taxes, said Democratic Senator Nathan Johnson.

If this bill does become law, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton would have the ability to sue cities and counties that potentially violate city laws that violate state laws.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
At the height of Texas summers, residents whose homes lack air conditioners have no escape from the extreme heat. And its only getting hotter.

Air conditioning has long been considered an amenity for renters in the state, but as temperatures continue to rise, experts and some lawmakers are beginning to see cooling as a fundamental right.

State Rep. Sheryl Cole, D-Austin, is trying again this year to pass a bill that guarantees tenants' right to air conditioning. The bill would require landlords to provide cooling systems and offer accommodations when repairs take more than five days.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The proposal, which is the same as one Cole filed two years ago, faces a tough road because of hesitancy in the GOP-led House and Senate to put more onus on landlords and more regulations on the books.

Nevertheless, proponents believe the issue is becoming more pressing, including in cities like Austin, Houston and San Antonio.

No one should suffer or die in their own home just because they cant afford air conditioning, said Rep. Christina Morales, D-Houston, one of the bills co-authors. In Texas, this isnt just about comfort. This is about survival.

In Harris County, 80 deaths were linked to heat-related complications from 2019 to 2023, according to a Harris County Public Health report. Exposure to extreme heat can strain a persons heart and kidneys as well as worsen chronic conditions and cause acute kidney injuries, according to the World Health Organization.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When people pick up fans from Austin-based Family Eldercares annual summer fan drive, theyre often getting relief from intense conditions, said Meghan Jones, the organizations interim chief development and communication officer.

Of the more than 10,000 recipients the group served last year, 48% reported feeling sick from the summer heat, according to Jones.

I think that just shows that more and more people really need heat relief, she said.

In Texas, about 54,200 occupied rental units had no form of air conditioning in 2021, according to the American Housing Survey, and many more tenants suffer through extreme heat when their systems break for extended periods, said Ben Martin, research director Texas Housers, which advocates for low-income residents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While Martin said he knows thousands of units dont have air conditioning, the statistics dont show a much bigger issue: faulty units. The broader problem that we see is broken air conditioning that is not fixed in a timely manner, which has the same effect as no air conditioning at all, he said.

There are no statewide protections for tenants for cooling or a guaranteed time frame for repairs. But several cities have some in place, even if theyre limited.

Houstons mandate only applies if the rental units lack screens on doors and windows, meaning cross ventilation cancels the right to an air conditioning unit.

The Texas Apartment Association did not respond to requests for comment on the proposed legislation. During a hearing on a recent Austin ordinance mandating air conditioning, Emily Blair, a representative for the Austin Apartment Association, said its difficult to install cooling equipment in apartments built before the 1970s.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She said such costs could be financially devastating for property owners and mean higher rents for tenants.

We understand the intent behind the proposed requirement, Blair said. Although we want renters to be as comfortable as possible in their home, the realities of older construction limit what can realistically be provided.

Larissa Larsen, a University of Michigan professor of urban and regional planning, said policies are increasingly reflecting a change in the need for air conditioning.

We used to think air conditioning was a luxury, Larsen said. Now we're realizing it's not  it's a necessity.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While air conditioning mandates are only beginning to pop up, heating requirements have existed across the nation for years, mostly because people in northern states pushed through such protections decades ago.

California, New York and Oregon have all adopted at least some tenant protections for air conditioning. Arizona state law requires landlords to repair AC units within 10 days.

But Elizabeth Mueller, a University of Texas associate professor of community and regional planning, said a statewide mandate is unlikely to pass in Texas any time soon.

Theres just a reflexive reaction against any efforts to regulate rental property conditions, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Martin, of Texas Housers, said he worries for Texans as summer fast approaches. The future of the federally funded Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, which helps low-income households cover weather-related utility costs, is uncertain after staff layoffs.

To Martin, cost burdens arent a good enough reason for landlords to oppose new cooling guidelines.

If we want to make housing really cost effective, it's very cost effective to not put a roof on the house, he said. These landlords are housing human beings, and we must establish a baseline of dignity for the humans, for the families, for the individuals that are living in these homes.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Texas bill mandating AC for renters faces tough road in legislature
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  A Texas man has been sentenced after he traveled to Oklahoma to engage in sexual acts with a 13-year-old in April 2024.

According to the U.S. Attorneys Office, Western District of Oklahoma, an officer with the Moore Police Department responded to a home on April 5, 2024, after receiving reports of someone looking into the window of a 13-year-old girl.

LOCAL NEWS: Moore PD: Barricaded suspect not found inside apartment

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Authorities were able to find the suspect, 25-year-old Bryan Cruz, nearby using a thermal imaging drone and arrest him. The minors parents allowed police to search a laptop used by the minor and discovered the two met online. He told the minor he was a 17-year-old high school student and expressed interest in meeting the minor. He traveled from Dallas to Oklahoma to engage in illicit activity.

Officials say on May 7, 2024, a two-count indictment was returned against Cruz, charging him with coercion and enticement of a minor and interstate travel with intent to engage in a sexual act with a minor. On September, 12, 2024, Cruz pleaded guilty to count 2 of the indictment and admitted to traveling to Oklahoma to meet with the minor.

Cruz was sentenced on May 1, 2025, to 210 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised 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 KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
Jim Ross, mayor of Arlington, Texas, was furious when he learned his city was losing millions of dollars yearly because of a real estate loophole allowing private developers to avoid paying property taxes.

"I think it's inappropriate at best. It's underhanded," Ross said to CBS News. "I was pissed. I still am."

Don't miss

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The controversy centers on failed negotiations involving a Dallas-based real estate developer called TDI and the Arlington Housing Finance Corporation (HFC).

The prospective deal would have allowed the developer to claim a tax exemption for converting the Jefferson North Collins apartment complex into affordable housing.

Although the city rejected the proposal, the developers secured approval in the small Texas town of Pecos, allowing them to forgo taxes on the Jefferson North property, hundreds of miles away.

Ross said the arrangement is costing his city $1.7 million of lost property taxes.

My first question was, what in the world are they doing, he said. What makes them think that they know better than the city of Arlington what this community needs.

How the deal unfolded

The Pecos HFC approved the deal with the Dallas-based real estate developer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Because HFCs can legally operate beyond the boundaries of the governments that created them, Pecos' HFC quickly expanded its reach and approved several real estate deals across North Texas.

One of them is the complex in Arlington, which has been renamed Zenith. And, by law, the owners dont even need to reduce any of the residents rents to meet the HFC affordability criteria  the only requirement is that at least half the tenants in the complex have a household income below $88,000.

The legality of these cross-jurisdictional operations has been questioned. In the meantime, the practice has spread. Even as HFCs operate far outside their original borders, more small governments have embraced the "travelling HFC" to raise money.

Read more: Here are 5 must have items that Americans (almost) always overpay for  and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?

What are Housing Finance Corporations (HFCs)?

HFCs intend to support affordable housing development for low-income communities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They can issue bonds, offer property tax exemptions, and provide other financial incentives in exchange for long-term revenue agreements with developers.

In many cases, HFCs partner with private developers to "own" properties on paper. They allow developers to claim public tax exemptions while operating as a for-profit business.

Unlike city councils or other public agencies, HFCs are often not required to hold public meetings or disclose detailed records. As a result, its challenging to track the amount of affordable housing built.

Critics say the consequences are significant. Every project that shifts onto an HFCs books removes valuable properties from the tax base, depriving cities of crucial revenue for public services like schools, emergency response and infrastructure repairs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The CBS News Texas I-Team in the area found that Pecos' HFC has approved similar deals across North Texas  in Fort Worth, Grand Prairie, Lewisville, Haltom City and Azle  amounting to more than $500 million in forfeited taxes.

The impact on residents

When cities lose primary sources of tax revenue, the burden can shift to residents. Homeowners and small businesses may face higher tax bills, while public services  from school funding to street repairs  may see cutbacks.

Across Texas, local governments are increasingly sounding alarms about HFCs being used to shield private developments from taxes.

Officials are now calling for state lawmakers to reform the system. The loophole could continue to drain city budgets when many communities struggle to make ends meet.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"In hindsight, it's gonna be one of the greatest frauds put on the Texas taxpayers  the introduction of this program and how it's being abused," said Texas Rep. Gary Gates.

What to read next

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
A man is accused of fatally stabbing his roommate, a British nursing student and content creator, more than two dozen times at their Houston apartment, authorities say. The deadly altercation reportedly began as an argument over her roommates cat.

Officers discovered Elizabeth Tamilore Odunsi  known as Tami Dollars on TikTok, where she had amassed over 48,000 followers  lying on the kitchen floor of her apartment with 28 stab wounds, according to Harris County records.

Before finding Odunsi, officers were called to check on the apartment around 3:50 p.m. on April 26, Houston police said. When officers knocked on the door and did not receive an answer, they noticed blood on the rear concrete patio, prompting them to enter the apartment, according to the department.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When officers entered the residence, they found Odunsi on the kitchen floor with multiple stab wounds. In a nearby bedroom, they also found the suspect, Chester Lamar Grant, 40, who had at least one stab wound, according to police. Paramedics pronounced Odunsi dead at the scene, while Grant was transported to a hospital in critical condition. He was later arrested on May 3 and charged with murder. His bond was set at $500,000.

Odunsi had been scheduled to graduate from Texas Woman's University College of Nursing the following Sunday, about a week after her death.

During Grants bond hearing, a Harris County judge addressed the severity of the allegations and the reasoning behind the bond amount.

"The allegations in this case allege he stabbed his female roommate 28 times, killing her over some disagreement over his cat," the judge said, per KHOU and ABC 13 reported. "So, this is an allegedly extremely brutal murder with an extensive history of violence, which I find to be an extreme danger to the community."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to county court records, Grant has multiple convictions in Washington state for domestic violence, with his most recent being on Sept. 6, 2023, according to USA TODAY.

USA TODAY contacted Grant's defense attorney on May 6 but did not receive a response. His next court hearing is scheduled for Wednesday.

Father threatens to sue police, landlords

John Odunsi, the student's father, has threatened legal action against local police and her landlord, citing negligence after discovering that her housemate was a convicted felon.

According to The Times, a prominent UK newspaper, Odunsi claimed that police had visited his daughter's apartment multiple times in the past. He also argued that the landlord's screening process should have revealed the criminal history of the roommate, Grant.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Residents of the building reported that officers had been on site during a dispute between the roommates just hours before Odunsis body was found, the Times reported.

If there are failings, we will take legal action  I feel failed by the police from what Ive heard, he told The Times.

The landlord shouldve done the necessary checks on the tenant who was staying with my daughter. I dont know what sort of vetting was done on the roommate  thats what were trying to ascertain  but unfortunately it wont bring back my lovely daughter," he added.

'A beautiful soul, full of light, ambition, and kindness'

A GoFundMe was started for Odunsi, who was known on TikTok as Tami Dollars or "TD," and it describes the nursing student as a "beloved sister, daughter, and friend."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Tami was a beautiful soul, full of light, ambition, and kindness. She was just 23 years old," the fundraiser page reads. "A devoted Christian, she was a God-fearing young woman who found strength and joy in her faith. She had a deep love for her church community, where she was actively involved and always eager to serve others with humility and grace."

According to the GoFundMe page, Odunsi moved from the United Kingdom to the U.S. to "pursue her dream of becoming a nurse." Her death came days before she was set to graduate from university, the page says.

"An unimaginable loss at a moment that should have marked the beginning of a bright and promising future," the fundraiser says. "Tami touched so many lives in her short time here."

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Texas nursing student killed by roommate after dispute over cat
SAN MARCOS, Texas (KXAN)  Texas State University wants to increase its student body to 50,000 by 2033.

The Texas State University System Board of Regents approved its new master plan earlier this month with growth in mind. The plan will guide the university system through the next decade, supporting projects across its five properties, including the San Marcos and Round Rock campuses.

The university surpassed a major milestone in the Fall 2024 semester when it enrolled more than 40,000 students.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The goal of the Master Plan, prepared by the firm Page of Austin, is to chart a course to cement TXSTs place as one of the most beautiful college campuses in America, a press release read.

TXSTs master plans key elements are student success, academic excellence, research and stewardship of resources. Over the next ten years, the master plan calls for 30 new facilities and more than 20 green spaces to be developed at the San Marcos campus.

There will be new buildings, parking garages, said Gordon Bohmfalk, director of facilities, planning, design, and construction at Texas State University. But the goal of creating space between the buildings and gathering places in between buildings and connectivity is really well thought out.

University President Kelly Damphousse told KXAN in September that the enrollment growth is a product of illustrating the importance of a four-year degree.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What weve been doing is trying to work really hard to help prospective students understand the value of a four-year college degree in general, and then the value of a Texas State degree, in particular, he said.

[Students] when they come here, they believe that were invested not just in having the biggest freshman class, but also having the biggest graduating class in four years, that were invested in their success, Damphousse continued.

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.
Kharkiv, located a stones throw away from Russias border, continues to pulsate with a resilient spirit despite the invasion. Each cultural event that takes place in this eastern Ukrainian city is more than just artistic expression  it is a poignant reminder of what Ukraine stands to lose in the war.

Documentary photographer Amadeusz Swierk traveled to Kharkiv to capture the city's cultural scene for his photo series Art in the time of war.

While the war has forced a reimagining of how cultural events take place in Kharkiv, it has not prevented them from happening entirely. Kharkiv locals and visitors to the city alike still flock to theater performances and musical concerts, although theyre sometimes staged in clandestine venues for safety. Artists who remained in the city continue to create in their studios, and a LGBTQ+ friendly club, where drag performances illuminate the night, continues to host performances.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is a city where cultural expression and freedom of speech endure, making the continued existence of Kharkivs cultural scene a defiant stand against Russian aggression. Each cultural event, each output of artistic expression, serves as a bold reaffirmation of Kharkiv residents' unyielding desire to live in a free Kharkiv that is an integral part of a democratic Ukraine.

Amid this cultural resilience, however, Kharkiv also faces the harsh reality of frequent Russian bombardment. The city, which Russian forces attempted to capture at the start of the full-scale war, continues to fight to avoid the fate of occupation suffered by other parts of Ukraine. Attacks occur on a weekly, sometimes daily basis, plunging Kharkiv into darkness, destroying homes that took a lifetime to build, and taking away precious lives.

This tension between Russian aggression and cultural life in Kharkiv dates back to even before the start of the ongoing full-scale war. In the early 20th century, Kharkiv was temporarily the capital of Soviet Ukraine, and all young artists looking to make something of themselves felt like they had to be there.

However, during the Stalinist purges of the 1930s, a number of artists residing in Kharkiv were arrested, interrogated, tortured, and even executed for perceived anti-Soviet agitation. Many of them envisioned Ukrainian culture in the greater sphere of European culture, which was considered a crime in the eyes of Soviet authorities. Ukraines persecuted cultural figures from this period later came to be known collectively as the Executed Renaissance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kharkivs contemporary cultural scene carries a deep understanding of the city's delicate equilibrium, remaining aware of its turbulent past, its resilient present, and the future all Ukrainians are fighting to protect.

The "Berezil" Kharkiv drama theater stages Shevchenko 2.0, a play critical of Russian heritage in Ukrainian history, in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 7, 2024. The event took place despite the city governments ban on large public gatherings in state-owned buildings above ground, with the trusted audience gathering in secret, informed by word of mouth. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Actor Dmytro Petrov, 45, photographed in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 10, 2024. Since gathering restrictions limited the Berezil theater's performances, he has lived in a state of artistic and existential crisis. He has occasionally visited the front lines and performed for a handful of troops in the trenches. In July 2024, he began preparing to join the Ukrainian Armed Forces, finding purpose in his life once again  not as an artist, but as a soldier. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

A conversation table representing Kharkiv as part of an exhibition in the Literature Museum, in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 3, 2024. The event challenges the stereotype of Kharkiv as a city of steel and concrete. The string-bound figurines of people, buildings, and greenery symbolize the delicate relationships of the objects they represent. Visitors, who may choose to hide behind symbolic masks, are encouraged to discuss troubling topics of war, death, and loss in a safe but thoughtful setting. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Konstantyn Zorkin, 39, an artist of many disciplines and a teacher, in his underground workshop in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 5, 2024. In the past he worked with many other artists in his studio, but most left the city after the invasion. Now, Konstantyn works here alone, tirelessly painting and sculpting, building a varied collection of wartime works. The purpose of art  binding local context and eternal themes  holds special significance for him during the war. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Guests hang outside the Switch Bar just before curfew in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 6, 2024. After the closure of competing venues, Switch Bar remains the only place in Kharkiv hosting LGBTQ-themed shows and performances for the community. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Drag queens Evelina Smile, 32 (L) and Katy Loboda, 24 (R), getting ready for a performance at the Switch Bar in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 7, 2024. Evelina Smile, a cook, English language teacher, and experienced drag performer, views the wartime shows as a positive but detached distraction from the grim reality. Evelina hopes that, after the war, the audience will be able to enjoy the shows more fully, appreciating the bright and liberated messages in all their unconventional glory. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Drag queens Kira Wazovski, 35, Evelina Smile, 32, Monika, 27, and Katy Loboda, 24 performing on the Switch Bar stage in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 7, 2024. Katy Loboda, the youngest of the drag artists at Switch Bar, has been an army cook for four years and received a bullet wound at the beginning of the full-scale invasion while defending the city. While the shows don't provide much money, they offer a desperately needed distraction, especially now when furloughs are scarce. Katy cannot imagine well-being without an inclusive place to express oneself without ridicule. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent

Hamlet Zinkivskyi (37), paints loves me loves me not on a grenade in his home workshop in Kharkiv, Ukraine on July 10, 2024. Known as the "Ukrainian Banksy," Hamlet's art adorns many streets in Kharkiv and beyond, and he is a renowned figure in the international street art community. He often repurposes war trophies and army equipment into art pieces, selling them for substantial sums. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Muravskyi Shlyakh, a group of Kharkiv folklorists, perpetuates folk songs and stories of Sloboda, Kharkivs ethnographic region, in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 11, 2024. Since the beginning of the invasion, during the sieges, they sang in city parks and crowded subway stations used as shelters. In the spring of 2022, the group launched a two-year project called "Folklore and War," traveling to front-line villages to preserve old Ukrainian songs and cultural legacy shared by the elderly citizens. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Serhiy Petrov, 48, a world-renowned artist and founder of Bob Basset studio, which creates masks, bags, bracelets, and other accessories in the techno-romanticism genre, in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 5, 2024. Many of Bob Basset's works are in private collections worldwide, appear in music videos by famous artists like Slipknot and Ghost, and are appreciated by the likes of director David Lynch and writer William Gibson. Feeling closely tied to Kharkiv and supporting the army efforts by auctioning many of his works, Serhiy decided to stay in the city alone in a house with a window broken by a rocket. He couldnt bring himself to fix it, seeing it as a memento. His wife and child evacuated and currently live in the West. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Artem Bubeltsev, 22, a skater and roof jumper from Kharkiv, performs a jump over an anti-tank hedgehog left in the center of the city, in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 9, 2024. On that day, Artem successfully completed this complicated trick for the first time, becoming a forerunner in the entire crew. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Oksana Dmitrieva, 47, main director of Kharkiv's puppet theater, among the puppets displayed in the theater's museum exhibition in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 7, 2024. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In addition to the ban on performances on the main stage, the Kharkiv puppet theater faces severe underfunding. Due to financial struggles, Oksana Dmitrieva has been unable to pay artist and crew salaries since April and was forced to send the staff on leave. The future of the theater, like many other venues, remains uncertain. Photo taken in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 7, 2024. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Keeping the balance, a street art piece by Hamlet Zinkivskyi in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 7, 2024. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Ilya Sayenko, 35, a rock musician and entrepreneur, recently wounded in a car crash during a volunteer trip to the front lines in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 9, 2024. Ilya is the founder and owner of the LF club in Kharkiv, the only venue open 24/7 since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, hosting civilians as well as Ukrainian and international soldiers on furlough. Over the past two years, Ilya has delivered about 20,000 burgers to the front lines, evacuated hundreds of people from war-ridden areas, and organized concerts in the besieged city to raise money for the army. He plans to continue his various voluntary endeavors after a moment of respite. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Lead Singer Tamara Harmash (60), accompanied by the orchestra conducted by Dmytro Morozov (47), on the stage of the Kharkiv State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre. The massive basement of the monumental theater building has been repurposed into a literal and metaphorical underground concert hall. Despite the peculiar location, the performances are typically packed with people.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dina Chmuzh, 26, brushes a poem on boarded windows, a frequent sight on the streets of Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 13, 2024. For Dina, who left the city during the initial invasion but returned, making art is a dialogue with the city, with recurring themes of loss, resilience, feminism, and historical memory. The boarded windows, her canvas of choice, draw passersbys attention and mask the brutality of destruction. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Oksana Rubanyak, 21, poetess and commander of the Reconnaissance unit of the 153rd Separate Mechanized Brigade, poses for a photo in a destroyed school in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 14, 2024. Coming from the Carpathian Mountains, she started as a machine gunner but rose to the position of commander before turning 22. Poetry accompanied her during the full-scale invasion, becoming a means to forge her dark experiences into a warning message for the future. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Apart from skateboarding, Artem Bubeltsev is also a parkour artist. Artem survived the early invasion with his grandma in Saltivka, the urban area most impacted by shelling. They spent a month sheltering on and off in a crowded subway station. His only escape was skateboarding: One kickflip and I felt alive again. His dream is to gather enough money to leave Ukraine with his grandma and pursue his career somewhere safe. When he turns 25, he will be enlisted in the army, but he cant imagine himself hurting any living being. Photo taken in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 11, 2024. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

The MUR music group performs the musical [You]Romantica, based on the texts of the Executed Renaissance, a generation of Ukrainian poets, writers, and artists from the 1920s and early 1930s persecuted and purged by the Stalinist regime, in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 3, 2024. MUR is a recent art phenomenon in Ukraine. Many Ukrainian youth discovered the Executed Renaissance through MURs music and social media. The group was proud to perform in the city of origin of the stories that inspired their musical. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A house party of staff and friends of the Switch Bar in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 7, 2024. Kharkiv was often called a city of kitchen parties, with many people moving their get-togethers from public places into private accommodations after nightfall. Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, the saying has become even more meaningful due to the curfew. Partying after 11 p.m. is tantamount to staying overnight, with no working taxis, planned blackouts, and police patrols. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

A couple near the bar Pokh, one of the few bars in Kharkiv, Ukraine, that stays open right until the curfew at 11 p.m., on July 4, 2024. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

The NAFTA theater performs the Rainbow on Saltivka play in the Some People concert venue, newly opened despite the official gathering ban, in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 11, 2024. The NAFTA theater gained national prominence after the full-scale invasion with their surrealist tragicomedy about life, war, and the largest residential area in Kharkiv  Saltivka. This neighborhood, home to around 400,000 Kharkiv residents, has suffered greatly during the full-scale Russian invasion. "Rainbow on Saltivka" encourages a rethinking of stereotypes and calls for consideration of the values of the district, often seen by many as dangerous and destroyed. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

The audience leaving the NAFTA theater performance in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 11, 2024. For the main actor and founder of the theater, Artem Vusyk, the play is "a reason to remember childhood." He lived in Saltivka for 17 years. Since his childhood, he associated Saltivka with rainbows, often seen in the area. Artem wants his audience to view the district differently  not as a gray desert of derelict and war-torn apartment blocks, but with a renewed perspective. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Oleksandr Kobzev, 31, a tattoo artist, in his home studio in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 7, 2024, doing his last civilian tattoo before joining a special unit of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He plans to bring his equipment to continue tatooing in the army, with his art serving as a source of support during his service. A talented tactical medicine instructor with experience in medevac teams, hes inspired to take on a more responsible position as a senior medic for an army brigade. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Kharkiv youth hold a concert on the main street of the city, minutes before the 11 p.m. curfew, in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 12, 2024. Such events are a frequent occurrence near the Drunken Cherry bar, which closes at 10 p.m., with guests staying late outside. Partygoers often sing popular old songs in Russian but always end by shouting Glory to Ukraine and Glory to the heroes. This dichotomy is natural for Kharkiv, where both Russian songs and nationalistic cries are heard with equal sincerity. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Oleksandr Kud, 31, musician, poet, and founder of the LitSlam poetry group in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on July 12, 2024. A drone operator in the Ukrainian Armed Forces, he is applauded by the audience during an event dedicated to his writings. Right before the applause ends, he leaves the concert room, feeling overwhelmed by the distance between his artistic and soldier personas. Devastated by the grim reality of the front line, Oleksandr desperately attempts to maintain his identity as a man of art within the army. The guitar and pen are key to keeping his mental balance. His poetry is now filled with war metaphors, but he still surprises himself by occasionally writing pieces about love and nature. (Amadeusz Swierk / The Kyiv Independent)

Read also: When house becomes home (PHOTOS)

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Editor's note: This story has been updated with data from the Association of Tour Operators of Russia.

Ukrainian drones forced mass flight delays and diversions at airports around Moscow on May 7, the pro-Kremlin Telegram channel Mash reported.

The disruption comes days before Russia's Victory Day parade on May 9, one of the country's largest public events and a key propaganda tool for Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For a third consecutive day, the Kremlin reported downing Ukrainian drones approaching Moscow, disrupting aviation in the region.

According to the Association of Tour Operators of Russia, recent Ukrainian military activity has led to airport closures that disrupted travel plans for at least 60,000 passengers across the country. Around 350 flights were reportedly affected.

Mash claimed that the evening drone raid on May 6 caused a "collapse" at all airports in the Moscow Oblast, forcing numerous airliners to divert to other cities or delay departures. Some passengers were left on planes for several hours without food.

Russia's Defense Ministry claimed it had shot down two drones over the region.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At Sheremetyevo Airport, dozens of people crowded information desks to change or surrender tickets on May 7, according to pro-Kremlin outlet Careful, Moscow.

Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support Us

Russia's Federal Air Transport Agency also warned of flight delays across Central Russia "due to the late arrival of aircraft at the initial airports of destination."

Chinese President Xi Jinping is due to arrive in Russia on May 7 for a visit lasting until May 10. He plans to meet Putin to discuss the war in Ukraine, Russia-U.S. relations, and energy cooperation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Other expected guests include Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, though Fico's attendance remains uncertain due to illness.

Ukraine has previously demonstrated its ability to strike Moscow with drones. In an apparent effort to shield Victory Day celebrations, Putin announced a unilateral "humanitarian" truce from May 8 to midnight on May 11.

Zelensky dismissed the move as a "theatrical performance," and experts told the Kyiv Independent that such unilateral declarations contradict how legitimate ceasefires are negotiated.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said on May 3 that Ukraine could not guarantee the safety of foreign officials planning to attend Victory Day events in Russia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At least 29 world leaders and military personnel from 13 countries are expected to attend the parade.

Read also: Ukraine ramps up drone strikes on Moscow as Russian-friendly leaders set to attend Victory Day parade

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
By Jaiveer Shekhawat

(Reuters) -Big Four accounting firm PwC is laying off about 1,500 employees in the United States, a company spokesperson told Reuters on Monday.

The workforce reduction equates to approximately 2% of our U.S. firm, the spokesperson said.

PwC employs more than 75,000 people in the United States.

"This was a difficult decision, and we made it with care, thoughtfulness, and a deep awareness of its impact on our people, appreciating that historically low levels of attrition over consecutive years have made it necessary to take this step", PwC said in a statement.

Last year, Reuters had reported that PwC was considering slashing up to half its financial services auditing staff in China, as a regulatory investigation and an exodus of clients darken business prospects.

PwC last month shut operations in nine Sub-Saharan African countries following a strategic review.

KPMG, PwC, EY and Deloitte make up the Big Four accounting firms.

In November last year, Reuters had reported that KPMG would lay off less than 4%, or about 330 people, of its audit workforce in the United States.

(Reporting by Jaiveer Singh Shekhawat in Bengaluru; Editing by Alan Barona)
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (WFLA)  A Florida man who had been pulled over Friday night for speeding and blowing through a red light led officers on a foot chase through the streets of Daytona Beach, the police department said.

XAvier McCall, 26, could not provide Daytona Beach officers with his license, claiming he was in his grandmothers vehicle, body camera video shows.

Florida man refuses to leave young girls dance class, attacks manager: affidavit

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After officers asked McCall to step out of the vehicle, he took off.

The video cuts to an officer chasing the suspect down the street, through an intersection and into a parking lot. Weaving between cars, McCall makes his way into what appears to be a residential neighborhood.

Backup arrives and McCall is cornered and taken into custody.

Alright, bud, lets stand up so we can get a search on you, an officer is heard telling the suspect in the video.

4 Florida deputies fired after failing to activate bodycams in Sarasota County arrest

Police allow McCall to catch his breath, as they confirm his name and identity.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cmon, man, youre much younger than us, the officer said in reference to his heavy breathing.

Smoked too much, McCall replied.

Youre too young to be breathing like that from that short little run, dude. You need to stop smoking. You thought you were Usain Bolt, the officer joked. If you stop smoking, you might get that stamina back up.

McCall was arrested on May 2 and taken to the Branch Jail. Court records show he is facing charges of driving with a suspended or revoked license and obstructing an officer without violence.

WFLA.com has reached out to obtain McCalls arrest 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 WFLA.
PANAMA CITY (AP)  Thousands of Panamanians marched in the capital Tuesday in the largest protest yet against an agreement signed during last month's visit by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth giving U.S. troops access to strategic air and naval facilities in the Central American nation.

U.S. President Donald Trump thrust Panama into the spotlight even before winning election last November by suggesting that his country should consider retaking control of the Panama Canal and accusing Panama of ceding influence to China.

Panama has vehemently rejected those comments but also tried to pacify the new administration, which has slapped tariffs on many trade partners.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

University students led Tuesdays protest accusing President Jose Raul Mulino of sacrificing Panamas sovereignty with the deal.

We feel like our president is acting against the wishes of many Panamanians and in very sensitive affairs, 30-year-old student Tony Ruiz said. He signs an agreement behind our back that compromises our sovereignty, our neutrality with the world.

The previous night Foreign Affairs Minister Javier Martinez-Acha said of the agreement with Washington: The memorandum of understanding does not imply a surrender of sovereignty, nor does it violate the national constitution, nor the neutrality treaty.

Bases where the U.S. will get access for military personnel and contractors will always remain under the control of Panama and it can terminate the agreement with six months notice, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Martinez-Acha said the U.S. government acted in bad faith in how it handled the sensitive issue in the media, an apparent reference to Trumps inflammatory comments on the canal, but nonetheless Panama was being prudent and trying to avoid sanctions that have befallen other countries.

International cooperation is necessary to strengthen our capabilities, he said. Collaborating with the United States in this case helps us improve security without affecting our sovereignty or our laws.

The details of the deal only became public days after Hegseth's visit.

In a separate agreement, Panama also agreed to look for a way for the U.S. government to be reimbursed for fees its naval ships pay to transit the Canal. The Trump administration has argued that it should not be obligated to defend the canal and pay to use it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The U.S. built the canal in the early 1900s as it looked for ways to facilitate the transit of commercial and military vessels between its coasts. Control of the waterway transferred to Panama in 1999 under a treaty signed in 1977 by President Jimmy Carter.

The Trump administration has also pressured for the Hong Kong-based operator of ports at either end of the canalto sell those interests to a U.S. consortium that includes BlackRock Inc.

While Martinez-Acha suggested that politically motivated opponents are stirring controversy, the student protesters expressed concern about a U.S. return to a country it invaded as recently as 1989.

We are a neutral country; we cannot take sides with any country, said Jam Allard, another student.

We want our country to be sovereign.
PITTSFIELD, Mass. (WWLP)  The city of Pittsfield held its annual Community Shred Day last Saturday, hosted by Greylock Federal Credit Union and Berkshire United Way.

This event allowed members of the public to shred and recycle paper at the United Way headquarters, with shredders provided by VitalShred. Through this initiative, 8,000 pounds of paper were shredded and recycled by the community.

City of Westfield limits outdoor water use due to ongoing drought

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We love organizing this event for our community, said Jordyn Scace, Web Content Manager at Greylock. Its a great way to securely dispose of personal documents while also supporting our friends at Berkshire United Way.

Community Shred Day is also held to benefit Berkshire United Ways local initiatives, allowing community members to donate during the event. A total of $2,475 was raised for the organization on Saturday.

Courtesy of Greylock Federal Credit Union.

Each year when we see that truck filled to the brim, its confirmation that Shred Day continues to be a popular event, said Tom Bernard, President and CEO of Berkshire United Way. Were absolutely thrilled to collaborate with Greylock to provide this service at no cost to our community. We extend our deepest appreciation to those who generously contributed a donation toward Berkshire United Way to support our mission to build a stronger and more equitable community.

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.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
May 6Veterans Memorial Early College High School senior Sophia C. Acevedo-Gomez has won the annual 34th Congressional District art contest and will have her painting, "Unspoken Empathy," displayed at the U.S. Capitol.

The competition takes place in every congressional district in the country. The winning entries are displayed in the U.S. Capitol tunnel for one year.

"I personally promote it heavily because I love the arts, and I love the arts that we have down here in South Texas," U.S. Rep. Vicente Gonzalez said last week as he announced this year's winners in the board room of the Brownsville Independent School District.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This year, all three winners came from BISD. Last year's winners came from three different counties and three different school districts in the 34th, which stretches from Hidalgo County to Brownsville and along the Texas gulf coast to Kingsville.

"I have to say we always display some of the best art in the country, and it gets a lot of attention," Gonzalez said. "It's a great opportunity to take South Texas art to Washington."

The piece Acevedo-Gomez submitted shows her taking off her father Juan Gomez's boots.

"I was welding in the garage and I came inside and sat down in the chair. I think she said 'let me take off your boots, something like that.' I was tired and put my leg up and she started taking off my boots," Gomez said, explaining that he was the muse for the piece.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Her art teacher Javier Barbosa said he encouraged Acevedo-Gomez to submit the piece, which she painted on a two-dimensional flat surface to create a three-dimensional look.

Since 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have entered for a chance to have their artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol. This year, Gonzalez's office received 94 submissions.

A reception will be held in Washington later this year to honor Acevedo-Gomez and the other winners. In addition, she will be eligible to receive a $3,000 art scholarship to attend the Savannah College of Art and Design, should she apply and be accepted for enrollment.

Runners-up were Lopez Early College High School senior Mailyn Matovich, second place for a piece called "State Bound," and third-place winner junior Itzel Martinez from Rivera Early College High School for her drawing "I am Made from the Fragility of Opal."

Featured Local Savings
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  Three on-duty U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers accused of allowing vehicles with undocumented individuals to pass through their lanes into the U.S. without inspection at the San Ysidro Port of Entry face multiple charges.

Farlis Almonte, 38, of San Diego, Ricardo Rodriguez, 34, of Tijuana, Mexico, and Kairy Stephania Quinonez, 31, of Imperial Beach, have all been charged with Conspiracy to Bring in Aliens for Financial Gain and Bringing in Aliens for Financial Gain, Aiding and Abetting, the U.S. Department of Justice said in a news release Tuesday.

Two CBP officers arrested on suspicion of accepting cash bribes

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The three CBP officers allegedly revealed their lane assignments and hours they were scheduled to work the primary inspection booths at the San Ysidro Port of Entry, so that co-conspirators would know when it was safe to transport undocumented individuals across the border with impunity  sometimes using code words to gain admittance, according to the indictment.

The indictment alleges the defendants falsely reported into the Transportation Enforcement Communications System database the number of occupants in the co-conspirators vehicles to conceal the fact that those vehicles contained undocumented individuals.

Almonte and Rodriguez, both of whom have also been charged with Receipt of Bribes by Public Official, allegedly failed to enforce the immigration laws of the U.S. by allowing vehicles with undocumented immigrants to enter the U.S. in exchange for money, per the indictment.

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.
SRINAGAR (Reuters) - Three fighter jets crashed in India's Jammu and Kashmir territory on Wednesday, four local government sources told Reuters, hours after India said it struck nine Pakistani "terrorist infrastructure" sites across the border.

A Pakistani military spokesperson told Reuters five Indian aircraft had been shot down, a claim not confirmed by India.

(Reporting by Fayaz Bukhari in Srinagar, writing by Tanvi Mehta; Editing by YP Rajesh)
A photo of Tyre Nichols is positioned prior to a press conference on January 27, 2023 in Memphis, Tennessee. - Credit: Scott Olson/Getty Images

Three Memphis police officers charged in the death of Tyre Nichols during a January 2023 traffic stop have been found not guilty of second-degree murder, NBC News reports.

Former police officers Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, and Justin Smith  who were previously found guilty of witness tampering but acquitted of civil rights charges following a federal trial in 2024  also faced Tennessee state charges of aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct, and official oppression related to Nichols death. They were acquitted on all counts

More from Rolling Stone

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Two other officers, Desmond Mills Jr. and Emmitt Martin, previously pleaded guilty to both the state and federal charges. Those two await sentencing on both state and federal charges, while Bean, Haley, and Smith await sentencing on the federal witness tampering conviction.

Todays verdicts are a devastating miscarriage of justice. The world watched as Tyre Nichols was beaten to death by those sworn to protect and serve. That brutal, inhumane assault was captured on video, yet the officers responsible were acquitted, Nichols family attorney Ben Crump and Antonio Romanucci said in a statement after the officers were acquitted.

Tyres life was stolen, and his family was denied the justice they so deeply deserve. We are outraged, and we know we are not alone. We thank the Memphis community and people across the nation who have stood by Tyres family, lifted their voices, and demanded accountability. Your solidarity has been a beacon of hope in this painful journey. We remain fiercely committed to civil justice and ask for your continued support as we press forward with the civil trial and push for meaningful, lasting reforms needed to stop the cycle of police brutality.

The five officers were members of a crime suppression team called the Scorpion Unit, which typically targeted violent offenders and drug dealers. However, on Jan. 7, 2023, Nichols was pulled over by officers for reckless driving and then fled from the scene following a confrontation  as Memphis Police said in a statement at the time  with police approaching the vehicle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Police pursued Nichols, leading to a second confrontation and his apprehension, during which Nichols suffered a medical emergency. After being admitted to the hospital in critical condition, Nichols died on Jan. 10. Footage of the 2023 police attack later showed the officers issuing Nichols 71 commands, many of which were impossible to carry out, such as showing them his hands when they were restrained and telling him to get on the ground when he already was.

The incident sparked another wave of protests against police brutality in the aftermath of the George Floyd protests, and all five officers were fired from the Memphis Police Department in the weeks after Nichols death. A federal and state investigation into Nichols death  as well as a Justice Department investigation in the Memphis police in general  ensued, and the Scorpion Unit was disbanded.

Crump and Romanucci added, Let this be a rallying cry: we must confront the broken systems that empowered this injustice and demand the change our nation  and Tyres legacy  deserves.

Best of Rolling Stone

Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
BERKSHIRE, Vt. (ABC22/FOX44)  Three of the nine farmworkers arrested by Border Patrol in Franklin County in April have been deported to Mexico, Migrant Justice reports.

Eight members of the group were detained on April 21, when Border Patrol agents entered Pleasant Valley Farms in Berkshire. The ninth, Arbey Lopez-Lopez, was detained earlier on April 9 while driving to the same farm.

The six remaining farmworkers remain in custody in Louisiana, New Hampshire, and at the Northwest State Correctional Facility in St. Albans, Vermont.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Brett Stokes of the Center for Justice Reform of Vermont Law and Graduate School, who leads the legal team representing the eight farmworkers detained on April 21, said, ICE has deported three farmworkers without due process, in clear violation of their rights.

We will fight for justice for those unjustly deported and will continue to move for the release of those still in detention.

The detentions have prompted statements from Vermont politicians including Governor Phil Scott and Representative Becca Balint. Senator Bernie Sanders released a statement saying, The time is long overdue for real immigration reform and a path to citizenship for migrant workers.

Arbey Lopez-Lopez, who was detained earlier, has a hearing scheduled for May 15 to determine whether he will be eligible for release. The remaining farmworkers in detention have yet to receive a hearing date.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 ABC22 & FOX44.
HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW)  Three Horry County police officers are facing disciplinary action after an internal affairs investigation turned up more than half a dozen mislabeled videos tied to the 2023 road rage death of Scott Spivey, the agencys chief said Wednesday.

Chief Kris Leonhardt said the footage  seven videos in all  came from dashcams that were rolling on the night of Sep. 9, 2023, when officers responded to Camp Swamp Road near Loris following a shootout between Spivey, North Myrtle Beach businessman Weldon Boyd and Boyds friend, Kenneth Williams.

Spiveys sister, state lawmakers want independent review of deadly 2023 Horry County road rage shooting

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Since Ive been chief, Ive taken every action that I can to personally get the case reviewed, to look at it internally, Leonhardt said at a news conference. I can tell you in the community, they have faith in our department. Folks that cant meet our standard wont work here.

Leonhardt, who was named police chief in October, said a three-person internal affairs unit is working on the Spivey case daily to review any type of misconduct or policy violations that we may find on the part of the Horry County Police Department.

Horry County investigators gathered more than 650 photos, along with DNA and ballistics evidence, throughout a multiday probe that followed the deadly shootout near Loris.

It happened just after 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 9, 2023, at the intersection of Camp Swamp Road and Highway 9 in Loris. Officers found Spivey, a 33-year-old Tabor City resident, slumped over dead in his truck. Less than an hour earlier, authorities said he had been at a North Myrtle Beach bar.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By 11 p.m. on the night of the shooting, police had a search warrant for Spiveys black 2021 Chevy Silverado pickup truck. Two days later, an Horry County detective had access to a white 2022 Dodge Ram belonging to Boyd, who by that point had admitted to killing Spivey in self-defense. Boyd and Williams were traveling together at the time.

By 2:10 a.m. on Sept. 10, and only hours after the shooting, investigators had already determined via multiple witness interviews, accident reconstruction and 911 calls that Boyd had acted reasonably.

Between Sept. 9 and Sept. 13, officials took more than 650 photos at the scene or at the Horry County police impound lot and forensics laboratory. They also collected DNA samples, tire-track imprints and performed a ballistic analysis.

Spiveys sister, Jennifer Foley, and members of Horry Countys legislative delegation on Tuesday urged Gov. Henry McMaster to appoint a special prosecutor over her brothers case.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Leonhardt on Wednesday wouldnt disclose what the missing dashcam footage captured but said he acted quickly once officials learned it was misidentified.

Were going to hold our officers to a high standard, Leonhardt said. If they do not follow policies and procedures, that will be addressed, and I think weve shown that in a short amount of time, that weve reviewed this case. Several folks are no longer employed here.

Leonhardt on March 13 asked the FBI and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division to review evidence in the death of Spivey.

Last week, authorities said Paul Damon Vescovi was terminated for conduct unbecoming of an officer and a violation of general Horry County employee conduct guidelines.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

His firing came about seven weeks after Brandon Strickland, then a deputy chief, resigned amid SLEDs alleged misconduct in the Spivey investigation. He had been with the department since 2005.

Mark Tinsley, Foleys attorney, told News13 in a statement last week that journalist Beth Braden noticed a notepad in a video from Vescovis body camera that read act like a victim camera and gave it to Tinsley who then passed it on to SLED.

Police reports indicate that Spivey tried to run Boyd and his passenger off Highway 9 in Loris, and brake-checked the two several times. That led to a shootout once they turned onto Camp Swamp Road. It was later determined that Boyd shot Spivey in self-defense, and he was not charged.

Leonhardt said he has not talked to Spiveys family and was never involved in the criminal investigation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ill talk to any citizen that has concerns, absolutely, he said of a potential meeting with Spiveys relatives.

* * *

Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here.

* * *

Skylar Musick is a multimedia journalist at News13. Skylar is originally from Long Island, New York. She joined the News13 team in June 2024 after graduating from Villanova University in May 2024. Follow Skylar on X, formerly Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, and read more of her work here.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 WBTW.
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  Prosecutors charged three Oakland women with trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine into San Franciscos Tenderloin neighborhood, as well as using a minor for their drug activities.

Solis Soto, 34, Martha Alvarado-Rodriguez, 49, and Maria Valle-Rodriguez, 47, pleaded not guilty during their arraignments on Friday and Monday.

Charges filed against the trio include: solicitation of a minor to use or sell a narcotic; transportation, sale, and giving away a controlled substance; possession of a controlled substance for sale; and possessing more than 100 grams of fentanyl.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

San Francisco Police Department officers conducted a month-long investigation into numerous alleged purchases of illegal drugs from Soto, Alvarado-Rodriguez and Valle-Rodriguez on McAllister Street in the Tenderloin.

On the night of their arrest, April 29, officers saw Soto, Alvarado-Rodriguez, and a minor leave an apartment in Oakland at 8 p.m. and travel to the Tenderloin. They parked their vehicle on Golden Gate Avenue and Gough Street.

Police searched the vehicle and found over 60 grams of fentanyl. When officers executed a search warrant at the Oakland apartment, they found 60 more grams of fentanyl inside, as well as thousands of dollars in cash, prosecutors said. Valle-Rodriguez was arrested at the apartment.

Soto, Alvarado-Rodriguez, and Valle-Rodriguez are being held in jail without bail. The trio will return to court on May 14.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Politz had been serving as the wholesalers interim president following the departure of Manard Lagasse Jr., who left for other opportunities. Associated Grocers

You can find original article here Supermarketnews. Subscribe to our free daily Supermarketnews newsletter.

Associated Grocers Inc. has announced the appointment of David Politz as president and CEO.

Politz had been serving as the wholesalers interim president following the departure of Manard Lagasse Jr., who left for other opportunities. Politz has been with the Baton Rouge, Louisiana-based wholesaler since 1985, serving in various leadership roles, most recently as senior vice president and chief operating officer. He has also led the development and implementation of critical systems to support the companys retail members, according to Associated Grocers.

The Associated Grocers board of directors is excited to appoint David Politz as our new president and CEO, said Board Chair Daphne Lamendola. His unwavering dedication, strategic vision, and forward-thinking leadership will continue to guide our company toward sustained growth and success.

Politz expressed his enthusiasm for leading a company that holds deep personal significance.

I am honored to continue serving the independent retailers along the Gulf Coast, Politz said. As we celebrate 75 years as a full-service grocery wholesaler, we remain committed to the values that have defined us: integrity, excellence and a singular focus on the long-term success of the independent grocery retailer.

Associated Grocers works with more than 200 independent retailers in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas.
The Tooele County Sheriffs Office is investigating the destruction of a pair of tikis at the Iosepa Cemetery that had been the apparent focus of sharp debate among some in the Pacific Islander community.

Its something sad, said Ron Manuela, president of the Iosepa Historical Association, focused on preserving the history of the original Hawaiian settlers who once populated the remote Iosepa area, now abandoned. The tikis were a gift to the people of Iosepa and to their families.

Sgt. Dane Lerdahl, with the Tooele County Sheriffs Office, said a deputy visited the area Tuesday to look into the matter and that the investigation continues. Officials think the two Hawaiian statues, placed at the cemetery last year, were downed on April 30 or May 1. We do know that they were cut down. It appears some sort of saw was used, and then they were stacked somewhere on the site, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Both Manuela and Lerdahl hinted at the mixed sentiments the tikis had generated, though the motive remains focus of continued investigation. The tikis, made from telephone poles, were sawed into numerous pieces. Theres a lot going on, and were still trying to sort out the details, Lerdahl said.

A Tooele County Sheriff's Office official said Tuesday that the office is investigating the destruction of two tikis at the Iosepa cemetery. The undated photo shows the tikis before the incident. | Ruth Haws

As many of the descendants of the Hawaiians and others who first settled Iosepa in the late 1800s belonged to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Manuela said some took umbrage with the installation of the tikis. According to Tikimaster.com, a tiki retailer in Hawaii, tikis can represent various deities, ancestors or spirits in traditional beliefs.

While the tikis were meant as a gift, Manuela said, there were those that verbally shared their dislike for it. Some, he said, saw the statues  one about 8-feet high, the other about 6-feet high  as an infringement on church beliefs and a step toward paganism. A sign posted in front of them, also downed, had read, Guardians and protectors of our ancestors sacred lands.

That wasnt my feel. ... Thats part of Hawaiian culture, Manuela said, also noting the churchs development of the Polynesian Cultural Center in Hawaii, which offers tourist packages focused on varied aspects of Hawaiian and Pacific Island culture. Its not that it changed our focus, and now we were worshiping idols and things as such. But some didnt see it that way.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Iosepa community in Tooele Countys Skull Valley was once home to a contingent of Pacific Islanders, mostly Hawaiians, who migrated to Utah in the late 1800s after joining The Church of Jesus of Latter-day Saints. Iosepa was abandoned in 1917, but the cemetery remains as a gathering spot for the descendants of those earlier settlers, who visit the location each Memorial Day weekend.

A Tooele County Sheriff's Office official said Tuesday that the office is investigating the destruction of two tikis at the Iosepa cemetery. The photo shows where the tikis once stood. | Ruth Haws

History to Go, a website operated by the state of Utah, says Iosepa is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the 1971 nomination form notes some of its history. Many of the Pacific Islanders who came to Utah after joining the church initially settled in the North Salt Lake area.

However, as they did not integrate into the society very well, and rumors of leprosy were reported, the Mormon Church undertook to settle them as a group in Skull Valley, reads the nomination form. In time a community of 228 souls was developed in which the Polynesian culture flourished. Fish were raised in the springs and marshes nearby. The luau was preserved as were many of their dances and customs. The Polynesians were popular performers throughout the area.

After the church built a temple in Hawaii, many of the original settlers returned to Hawaii, and Iosepa was abandoned. However, a few remained in the area of losepa and Utah. Today descendants visit the region to view the land of their inheritance, reads the National Register application.

The Memorial Day weekend festival each year aims to honor the faith and sacrifice of our Kupuna who lived here long ago, reads the Iosepa Historical Association website, using the Hawaiian word to denote community elders. A pavilion, kitchen and other amenities have been added to the cemetery over the years by the organization.
HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH)  A new challenge primarily appearing on TikTok has Connecticut fire officials issuing a warning this week.

It is vitally important that youth and adults take fire risks seriously and recognize the danger inherent to these types of social media challenges, Volkert said. Fire can become uncontrolled and turn deadly in just a few seconds.

Laptop fire prompts student evacuation at Newington High School

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The challenge encourages students to short circuit their personal or school-issued electronic devices by putting pencil lead or other conductive objects like paperclips into the USB or charge ports.

As a result, sparks and a significant amounts of smoke can be generated, which could result in a fire that could spread to nearby items.

It could also lead the internal battery to experience thermal runaway and ignition, Connecticut State Fire Marshal Lauri Volkert and State Fire Administrator Jeff Morrissette said in their Tuesday warning.

17 students, staff displaced following fire at Cheshire Academy

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chuck Stanyke- a member of the Commission on Fire Prevention and Control and school security director in Ansonia- said students following challenges on social media are usually unaware of how dangerous they are.

The resulting thermal runaway can cause toxic gases to issue from the device. By intentionally causing these types of emergencies, youth are putting their peers and teachers at risk as well as tying up emergency response agencies and possibly delaying their response elsewhere, Stanyke said.

In the last week, there have been several incidents in Connecticut schools, including a laptop fire that evacuated Newington High School.

No injuries were reported and the fire was kept to the area of origin, with damage only sustained to the computer and the desk it was on, fire officials said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
HARTFORD, Conn. (WFLA)  A new trend gaining traction on TikTok has students setting fires at schools.

Students are recording themselves shoving things like pencils and metal springs into the charging ports of their school laptops, causing smoke and even flames to erupt, according to a report from NBC affiliate WVIT.

Disney announces location of 7th theme park, says it will be the most advanced and interactive of all

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The batteries that are essentially catching on fire, once they burn, theyre producing this toxic smoke, Newington fire marshal DJ Zordon said. Its more than just a trend. It causes a lot of disruption. The school has to be evacuated, firefighters respond to the fire house and subsequently to the scene, it takes resources from any other emergencies that might be happening at that time.

Fire officials said the laptops could explode, injuring anyone nearby with burns or pieces of shrapnel.

Dr. Maureen Brummett, superintendent of Newington Public Schools, said the students actions are not only dangerous, but costly.

Chromebooks are expensive and theyre going up in price, so when a student does intentionally destroy a Chromebook, its their responsibility to replace it. We have [an] insurance program but its not covering intentional damage, Brummett said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No one was injured in the reported incidents. There is no word on what consequences students could face for participating in this trend.

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.
FLATWOODS Timber Ridge Building Company is officially open in Flatwoods.

The company celebrated with a Northeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, May 1.

Timber Ridge is at 195 Argillite Road  where the road meets U.S. 23.

The company offers sheds, barns, cabins, garages, greenhouses, cabins, playsets, chicken coops and furniture.

Brothers Jim and Tim Price own Timber Ridge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ive known Jim (Price) my entire life, said Flatwoods Mayor Buford Hurley. We appreciate them taking a chance on Flatwoods. I know they have other big ideas coming up in the coming months, too.

Being here with Mayor Hurley, its a pleasure to see this empty facility being occupied, said Greenup County Judge-Executive Bobby Hall.

Contact Timber Ridge at (606) 388-2110.
QR codes are an omnipresent aspect of smartphone-era life, controlling access of everything from airline tickets to restaurant menus.

But in Long Beach, there are new, and perhaps unexpected, places that can be opened via a smartphone scan: public restrooms.

As part of a pilot program, Washington D.C.-based Throne Labs has set up "smart" bathrooms at four locations across the city. Each of the units, known as Thrones, includes a toilet, an urinal and a sink with an ADA-accessible ramp.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cities across the country want to provide bathrooms, but costs and operational challenges stop them from doing so, said Jessica Heinzelman, co-founder and chief operational officer of Throne Labs.

Read more: $339,000 for a restroom? L.A. politicians balk at the cost of toilets for homeless people

To access the Thrones, Heinzelman said, most users scan a QR code outside the restroom that generates a text message to open a specific restroom. There is also a code that can be typed in for those without a smartphone, and physical access cards are available.

A digital sign alerts users on whether the bathroom is available, in use, being cleaned or closed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But those with a penchant for leisurely loo visits should take note: The Thrones come with a time limit. After 10 minutes, ready or not, the doors are opening.

Long Beach opted to place the units at Belmont Pier, Shoreline Marina, Harvey Milk Promenade Park and DeForest Park on April 15 and 16. Each of those locations sees a lot of foot traffic but doesn't have many bathrooms, officials said. News of the Throne restrooms was first reported by the Long Beach Post.

Jane Grobaty, superintendent of community information for the citys Parks, Recreation and Marine Department, said the department operates 51 traditional restroom facilities, though she could not provide the exact number of toilets.

Ryan Kurtzman, a technology partnerships officer for the citys Technology and Innovation Department, said his office collaborated with the parks department, public works and the city managers office to select locations for the restrooms.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Belmont Pier and Shoreline Marina were chosen because of immediate demand, he said.

Theres a lot of people going by those areas, but there really arent any restroom facilities nearby, he said.

DeForest Park was selected after its restroom was destroyed in a fire, and officials landed on Harvey Milk Promenade Park as a way to augment limited offerings in the city's downtown.

The 7-by-8-foot restrooms cost $6,200 apiece per month, which amounts to a total price tag of just under $100,000 for the four-month trial, Kurtzman said.

Read more: Six beautiful bathrooms around L.A., six versions of luxury

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The partnership got rolling when Kurtzman encouraged Throne Labs to offer a proposal under the Pitch Long Beach! program, which aims to identify potential partnerships with private companies to tackle civic challenges.

One of the great things about Throne is there is a lot of data that they can provide on usage that is easier than with a standard park restroom, Kurtzman said. Were looking at the number of uses, length of duration, user experience, cleanliness and other factors.

Kurtzman said the city will weigh those factors, along with a cost analysis, in determining whether to keep the restrooms.

Heinzelman, the Throne Labs co-founder, said more than 2,900 individuals have visited the four restrooms since their installation. Users rated the facilities 4.3 stars out of 5, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: Costa Mesa drops plan for mobile restrooms for homeless people based on business survey

Another Long Beach Throne was installed last May in partnership with L.A. County Metro at the A Line Willow Street station. That unit has seen 13,000 visits by 2,900 users since its installation , according to the company.

There are 18 other public Thrones at Metro stations across the transit system, with plans to expand to 64 within two years, Heinzelman said. There are also two Thrones at Will Rogers Memorial Park in Beverly Hills.

On average, most people who use the restrooms are done in 3 minutes, 20 seconds. The primary reason for the 10-minute time limit is to discourage loitering, Heinzelman said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But there's also a safety purpose, she said.

Read more: Contributor: Public bathrooms are a basic human right, but many cities aren't even trying to meet the need

Individuals have twice suffered medical emergencies in Thrones outside Long Beach. The 10-minute limit opened the door and allowed onlookers to call for help.

In a traditional restroom, if you have a medical issue inside, you might stay in there for hours until a janitor gets there, Heinzelman said.

Once 10 minutes pass, lights will flash inside the unit and a recorded message will ask the user to leave. The doors open shortly after, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She said that in other Los Angeles units, 85% of people who hit the time limit left within two minutes, while 95% departed within five minutes.

"In some ways, those numbers are much better than we expected," Heinzelman said.

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.
Heres a look back at what happened in the Chicago area on May 7, according to the Tribunes archives.

Is an important event missing from this date? Email us.

Weather records (from the National Weather Service, Chicago)

High temperature: 87 degrees (2023)

Low temperature: 29 degrees (1989)

Precipitation: 2.07 inches (1998)

Snowfall: Trace (1989)

1800: Jean Baptiste Point DuSable, a Black man known as the citys first non-native settler, sold his properties in Chicago. Soon after, he moved to St. Charles, Missouri, where he lived until he died in 1818.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

1896: The Tribune received a scoop on the Spanish-American War via telegram: Cmdr. George Deweys complete victory at Manila Bay in the Philippines. Without losing a man or a ship, Deweys squadron destroyed the Spanish fleet in the first American naval battle against a foreign power in almost five decades.

1927: More than 35,000 fans packed the renovated Comiskey Park hoping to watch New York Yankees slugger Babe Ruth hit a home run. He did not  but Yankees first baseman Lou Gehrig did.

The error-plagued White Sox were shut out 8-0.

1989: Michael Jordan nailed what became known as The Shot for a 101-100 victory over the Cavaliers in the playoffs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Michael Jordan: Top moments and stats in the life and career of the Chicago Bulls and NBA legend

The hanging jumper from the foul line over Craig Ehlo at the buzzer in Game 5 clinched the first-round series for the Bulls.

2000: Sue Hendrickson  who did not have a high school diploma  received her first university credentials in the form of an honorary doctorate of humane letters from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

The professional fossil hunter and self-taught archeologist and paleontologist with a namesake T. rex at the Field Museum came to paleontology by way of an early career diving for sunken treasure and collecting fish specimens in the Caribbean. She was a voracious reader as a child in Munster, Indiana, and decided against a formal university education after talking things over with the head of marine biology at the University of Washington.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hendrickson has always been a hard worker, her mother said, and she hopes that her success and the recognition she has gotten serves as inspiration for other people who pursue their ambitions without the benefit of a college degree.

2014: Oprah Winfreys Harpo Studios was sold to Sterling Bay.

Structures on the site were demolished starting in July 2016 to clear the way for McDonalds new corporate headquarters, which opened in June 2018. The building in Chicagos Fulton Market district sold for more than $412 million in October 2020.

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
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  Tomice Lee Fryman Jr. admitted driving home after being involved in Saturdays crash on the Westside Parkway that left body parts scattered along the roadway, according to a newly-released court filing.

Fryman, 51, called police to turn himself in more than nine hours after the gruesome crash scene was located near the Mohawk Avenue overpass, according to a probable cause declaration filed in Superior Court.

Frymans drivers license is suspended for DUI, police said. Court records show he has twice been convicted for DUI causing injury, most recently in 2021.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Prosecutors on Tuesday charged Fryman with second-degree murder, vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence, hit-and-run causing death and driving on a license suspended for DUI. Hes being held without bail and is due back in court May 14.

If convicted as charged, he faces a life term in prison.

Police were called to the crash scene around 6:30 a.m. and found body parts in the roadway but no vehicle. It wasnt until 4:15 p.m. that Fryman called police and said he was the driver involved in the crash, according to the declaration.

The name of the person killed has not 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 KGET 17 News.
TONTITOWN, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  Over the years, the Eco-Vista Landfill and the City of Tontitown have been in an ongoing dispute regarding air quality in the area, but since May 2, residents of Tontitown have driven past canisters that read Community Air Monitoring.

The current air quality tests are undergoing their fourth round in an 11-day study issued by the Arkansas Department of Energy and Environment, which stated the tests are aimed at finding answers to questions regarding potential contaminants found in prior studies.

According to ADEE, these canisters have been placed in multiple locations by CTEH field technicians, the same company that conducted two previous tests, which recorded five toxic chemicals in the area.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The first couple of tests showed definitely showed harmful chemicals in the air. And so now weve been fighting for them to do another test, Tontitown resident Mark Calcagni said.

Tontitown residents file class action lawsuit against Eco-Vista Landfill

Calcagni has lived in Tontitown for over 30 years, long enough to see the Eco-Vista Landfill built right down the street from his home, and witness the toll, he believes, has taken on his neighbors.

Thats a shame that, you know, Ive had to learn so much about landfill. But, you know, weve had a lot of people who have gotten sick here, Calcagni, who believes that same toll will affect his family, who lives right next door to him, said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In an ongoing demand for clarity that stretched on for years, some citizens in Tontitown claimed the fumes from the landfill are endangering the health of nearby residents.

My son lives next door, I have two grandsons that are five and two, and Im scared for them, worried that something bad could happen to them because they said it does affect the elderly and it also affects young children, Calcagni said.

One group of residents even filed a class action lawsuit in April.

After the National Guard conducted their own tests in 2023, they reported finding concerning levels of air pollutants that could impact human and environmental health, causing the ADE&E to act.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

ADEE begins air study in Tontitown following landfill tests

Despite attempts at addressing the pollution levels and a third study underway, Calcagni does not see the current testing helping residents.

I dont see that this testing is going to tell us anything, Calcagni said.

He believes that after three finished tests, action needs to be taken outside of testing, and worries about how the landfill will impact incoming residents.

You know, you want to see good growth and you hate for people to buy homes around this landfill and not even know theres a landfill, Calcagni said.

Down the road from one of the located canisters is Klenc Road, where current construction is underway for more housing, the same road that Eco-Vista Landfill trucks drive through.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
The top Democrat in the Massachusetts state Senate made a direct appeal to the upper crust of Boston leaders on Wednesday, urging them to speak up as the Republican Trump administration does battle with the Bay State over trade, federal funding and other key issues.

Speaking to the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce in Bostons Seaport neighborhood, Senate President Karen E. Spilka called on those business leaders to use their combined clout and their voices to speak up.

" I hope you will all use your collective voices to let the Trump Administration, Congress, and the federal government know when their policies are harming your businesses, your employees, your families and your bottom linesas well as the state we are lucky enough to call home," Spilka, D-Middlesex/Norfolk, said in remarks that stretched to 33 minutes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The business group, she noted, represents 1,200 organizations that include large and small corporations, nonprofit groups, and law firms, adding that she could "only imagine the billions of dollars in economic activity you represent when taken all together."

So, while the Senate will do "all we can to uphold the rule of law, separation of powers and due process, but we are limited in what we can do and we cant do it alone, she continued, casting that effort against the recent celebrations of the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Lexington.

Thats why we need your partnership more than ever to call out, when appropriate, a president who wants to be king and a Congress that is handing over its power to that president, she said.

The Ashland Democrat has emerged as one of the most forceful legislative critics of the Republican White House, repeatedly denouncing what she has described as the destructive impact of its policies on Massachusetts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Spilka beat that same drum during her speech to business leaders, saying she fears that "the massive changes being made by this administration at the federal level are not just reshaping our government, they are also threatening our way of life and our basic democratic principles."

Thats easy to see, she continued, when you think of our most vulnerable residents, families with children with complex medical needs, and our veteransamong otherswho rely on government programs like Medicaid, Head Start or the VA. Or when you think of the peoplesurely some of you in this roomwho have had to fight to be afforded the same rights and privileges as other Americans."

But because she was in a room full of numbers people, Spilka also made a starkly economic argument, noting that chaos brought on by the White Houses trade war is " also a threat to our economy  and not just because economies crave stability.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Just this past fallpractically a lifetime ago at this point two MIT economists, together with their colleague from the University of Chicago won the Nobel prize in economics for their work to show that over time, open, inclusive and democratic countries have stronger economies," she said.

The argument echoed those made by other Bay State pols, including Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey and U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., that Trumps attacks on Harvard University would punch a hole in the states economy, prompting researchers and innovators to flee to other countries.

On Tuesday, Senate Democrats rolled out a $61.3 billion, no-tax-hike budget plan for the new fiscal year that starts July 1, which is premised heavily on federal funding.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, the Senates top budget-writer warned of potentially catastrophic consequences if Washington carries through on a threat to turn off the spigot.

Thats particularly true of MassHealth, a budget beast that serves millions of state residents, Senate Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Michael Rodriques, D-1st Bristol/Plymouth, said.

If the feds hit Medicaid, all bets are off Rodriques said.

On Tuesday night, states appeared to get a reprieve, as congressional Republicans ruled out some Medicaid reductions, putting the burden on Trumps loyalists to look elsewhere to pay for the White Houses tax cuts, according to Roll Call.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Spilka hit the high points of the majority-Democrat chambers fiscal blueprint: More money for public education, an effort to tame the states housing crisis, and public transportation.

But, she warned, no state, not even one as strong and resilient as Massachusetts, can fill the massive budget gaps that could arise if federal dollars are stripped away.

If that happens, she continued, it will put serious pressure on our budget, our families, our communities, and our businesses.

The Senate is scheduled to start debate on its budget proposal on May 20. The majority Democrat House passed its $61.4 billion version of the budget last week. Both proposals are below the $62 billion that Healey proposed earlier this year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As we navigate the coming months and years, we truly will need to continue to work closely together to solve the most pressing problems before us and stand up for the state that we love, Spilka told the crowd.

More political news

Read the original article on MassLive.
Rocket Lab has been sending payloads into orbit since 2018, with its primary vehicle being its proprietary Electron rocket. The Electron is a small-payload vehicle, capable of lofting a 300 kilogram payload into low-Earth orbit and capable of reuse after a safe return. To date, Rocket Lab has made 63 successful Electron launches and deployed 224 satellites.

The first space stock well look at is Rocket Lab USA, a mid-cap private space launch firm that specializes in developing and deploying reusable small-payload launch vehicles. The company developed this niche in response to customer demand for a cost-effective mode of sending micro-sized and small-sized satellites into low-Earth orbit. These satellites are used for a wide range of purposes, with prominent uses including wireless networking and photo surveillance, and the companys customer base includes government agencies, satcom providers, communications firms, and imaging companies.

Wall Streets analysts are doing that by choosing and looking into the details of the launch and exploration companies, to find the ones that are best poised for liftoff. Weve used the TipRanks platform to find out the broader view on two of these picks; here they are, along with the analyst comments.

Like so much of the market today, the space economy is dominated by the tech titans. Blue Origin, which sent Ms. Perry and her compatriots above the atmosphere, is owned by Amazons Jeff Bezos, and the largest private space start-up is Elon Musks SpaceX, which is valued at approximately $350 billion. But the sheer size and potential of the space economy means that there is plenty of room for smaller companies to take off, and there are several to choose from.

For now, we can measure it in dollar terms. According to Precedence Research, the global space technology industry is valued at approximately $500 billion and is projected to exceed $1 trillion by 2034. In 2024, the commercial segment dominated the market, holding the largest share at 68%.

Katy Perry kissed the sky  and she liked it. Sure, it was a stunt, but Blue Origins recent all-female spaceflight wasnt just for show. It spotlighted a fast-evolving commercial space economy thats already deeply woven into our daily lives. From satellite-powered TV and GPS to real-time Earth imaging, space tech keeps the world spinning. And this is just liftoff  theres no telling how far beyond the final frontier the space economy could go.

Story Continues

The company is not sitting still on the success of its small payload program, however. Rocket Lab has an active development program, and is nearing operational readiness for its next launch vehicle, the Neutron medium-lift, human-rated rocket. The Neutron is scheduled for its debut launch during the second half of this year, and Rocket Lab reports that the program is on schedule. In terms of capabilities, the Neutron will be able to take a 13,000 kilogram cargo into orbit, or  more ambitiously  a 1,500 kilogram cargo to Mars or Venus. The company is developing a launch facility for Neutron in Virginia, with landings to take place on a floating ocean platform downrange.

Like many leading-edge, early-stage tech firms, Rocket Lab operates at a loss  but its revenue stream has been growing on a year-over-year basis. In the last earnings release, for 4Q24, the companys quarterly top line came to $132.4 million, a company record and up an impressive 120% year-over-year. The firms net loss for the quarter was 10 cents per share, flat year-over-year and about as expected.

This stock has caught the eye of Needham analyst Ryan Koontz, who is impressed by the high potential of the Neutron system as a challenger to SpaceX. Koontz writes of Rocket Lab, RKLB is a disruptive company in the fast-evolving space sector. Their deep vertical integration differentiates the company and puts RKLB in a prime position to challenge market leader SpaceX. Their Space Systems business, supplying turn-key satellite buses and subsystems, is benefiting from strong growth in government and commercial LEO constellation launches. Profits from Space Systems fund the companys Launch business, already proven for small-lift with its Electron rocket, and is soon expected to enter medium-lift launch with Neutron. Electron has reached maturity now with over 60 successful launches, while Neutron is expected to complete its first commercial missions in C26 and deliver on re-usability. Successful Neutron launches and wins vs SpaceX are expected to meaningfully improve revenue, earnings and cash flow beginning in C26.

Koontz quantifies his stance with a Buy rating for RKLB, and his $28 price target suggests that the stock will gain 24.5% in the year ahead. (To watch Koontzs track record, click here)

Overall, Rocket Lab gets a Moderate Buy from the Streets consensus, based on 13 recent reviews that include 9 to Buy and 4 to Hold. The shares are priced at $22.48 and their $27.91 average price target nearly matches Koontzs objective, allowing for 12-month returns of 24%. (See RKLB stock forecast)

Intuitive Machines (LUNR)

Next up is Intuitive Machines, a space company that has set its sights on the Earths moon. The Moon has been the target of successful government-supported space exploration missions for the past 60 years, but it still has a strong allure in the space industry. The allure of the Moon is supported by the fact  that we rarely think about  that the Earth is one of the largest objects in the solar system, and so spaceflight from the Earths surface entails escaping from a significant gravitational field. A shorter hop to the Moon, however, followed by reprovisioning and refueling, has long been seen as a cost-effective strategy to jump to our neighboring planets, or even beyond.

The first step, however, is to explore the Moon, and that is where Intuitive Machines comes in. The company, from its base in Houston, Texas, is working to provide lunar delivery platforms, data transmission to and from lunar probes and vehicles, and various infrastructure services, all designed to create open access to our only natural satellite.

Intuitive Machines has already worked with NASA to send unmanned probes to the Moon, with two missions, IM-1 and IM-2, achieving soft landings in February 2024 and February 2025. Both missions were considered partially successful; the probes landed on their sides, although their instrumentation was able to send some data back to Earth. The company is contracted to work with NASA on the IM-3 mission early next year, and plans are in the works for an IM-4 mission that will deliver two data relay satellites to the Moon.

In an interesting development, Intuitive Machines announced in early April that it will be using the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket to carry the IM-4 mission.

The company has also announced the award of a $10 million grant from the Texas Space Commission for the development of an Earth reentry vehicle and an orbital fabrication lab. These spacecraft are intended as part of microgravity biomanufacturing, with future application in the field of sample return from lunar missions.

Looking ahead, Intuitive Machines can count on plenty of work. The company had a backlog at the end of 2024 totaling $328.3 million. That was up 22% year-over-year, and was a record level for the firm.

On the financial side, Intuitive Machines brought in $54.7 million worth of revenue in 4Q24, a figure that was up 79% year-over-year  although it did miss expectations by $1.11 million. The companys net loss in Q4, listed as the net income (loss) attributable to the Company, came to $149.2 million.

Despite the net loss, Canaccord analyst Austin Moeller takes an upbeat view of Intuitive Machines. He particularly cites the work backlog, and notes that it comes from both government and private sources. Moeller writes, We continue to believe the combination of Intuitive Machines robust backlog opportunities (LTV, VIPER, NSNS, commercial Nebula missions, IM-5 and/or IM-6) and its expected long-term revenue growth expectations (from NSNS, OMES III, LTV and CLPS) are more attractive than government contractor peers in the space sector Our long-term thesis on the company remains intact, and we believe LUNR currently sits at an attractive entry point for long-term investors given its topline growth profile and expected positive Adj. EBITDA generation in 2026.

Moeller rates LUNR shares as a Buy, with a $21 price target that indicates room for a robust 132% upside in the coming year. (To watch Moellers track record, click here)

This innovative space stock currently has a Strong Buy consensus rating on the Street, based on 6 reviews that break down to 5 Buys and 1 Hold. The stock is priced at $9.05 and its $15.67 average price target suggests a one-year upside potential of 73%. (See LUNR stock forecast)

To find good ideas for stocks trading at attractive valuations, visit TipRanks Best Stocks to Buy, a tool that unites all of TipRanks equity insights.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the featured analysts. The content is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any investment.

Disclaimer & DisclosureReport an Issue
Two Trump administration officials will meet with their Chinese counterparts to discuss trade in the coming days, the administration said Tuesday  a potentially key moment several weeks after the United States and China imposed steep tariffs on each other.

U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will "meet with his counterpart from the People's Republic of China to discuss trade matters" during a trip to Switzerland, his office said in a statement.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will also travel to Switzerland this week, where he will meet with China's "lead representative on economic matters." The statement didn't identify who he would speak with, but Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said in a post on X that Bessent will meet with Vice Premier He Lifeng.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a social media post Tuesday night, the Chinese Embassy in the U.S. confirmed the Switzerland meeting, writing that China "has decided to agree to engage with the #US side."

In an interview with Fox News on Tuesday, Bessent said he will meet with a Chinese team on Saturday and Sunday, and initial discussions will likely be about "de-escalation, not about the big trade deal." The Treasury secretary said the U.S. and China have "shared interests" because the sky-high tariffs imposed by both countries last month are not "sustainable."

"The world has been coming to the U.S., and China has been the missing piece," Bessent said on Fox News' "The Ingraham Angle."

Hours before the U.S.-China meetings were announced, Bessent told lawmakers in a hearing that the U.S. had "not engaged in negotiations" with China yet.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

China and the United States have been locked in a tense tariff standoff in recent weeks, threatening to upend relations between the world's two largest economies and imperil more than a half-trillion dollars in annual trade between the two countries.

President Trump hit China with 145% tariffs on many goods last month, part of a wider swath of steep "reciprocal tariffs" on dozens of U.S. trading partners that Mr. Trump has accused of unfair practices. China later retaliated with 125% tariffs on imports from the United States. And while Mr. Trump paused many of his reciprocal tariffs in the hope of striking new trade deals with other countries, he left the China tariffs in place.

The escalating trade war has led to weeks of stock market turbulence, and sparked fears of slower economic growth and higher consumer prices.

Mr. Trump  who has cast his tariff strategy as a way to boost U.S. manufacturing and cut trade deficits  has suggested at various points that he's open to striking deals with U.S. trading partners, though he said earlier Tuesday, "We don't have to sign deals. They have to sign deals with us."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In an interview with NBC News last week, Mr. Trump claimed Chinese officials "want to make a deal very badly. We'll see how that all turns out, but it's got to be a fair deal." The president also said he expected to lower tariffs on China "at some point."

Meanwhile, Chinese officials have said they are open to negotiating with the U.S. on trade, but pushed the Trump administration to drop its "unilateral" tariffs first.

When asked about China's request to end tariffs before negotiations start, Bessent told Fox News he's "not going to give away our strategy" but "everything's on the table."

Josh's mom on making a move

What will Pope Leo XIV mean for the Church?

Hamas releases Edan Alexander, last known living U.S.-Israeli hostage | Special Report
A teen girl, 17, testified Tuesday that she and her father werent at the Michael Jackson Childhood Home in Gary long before a man walked up from behind and stuck a gun at her side.

Throughout the hours-long ordeal on Aug. 9, then 16, she said she was motivated to remain calm and stay alive. She and her father had been on a road trip, visiting prestigious colleges in the eastern U.S. and Midwest.

That day, they planned to head to Notre Dame from Chicago. With an interest in aerospace, she wanted to be an engineer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Theres no one else, she said. Its up to me.

Oasia Barnes, 69, of Gary, is on trial this week. He is accused of kidnapping the two from the Michael Jackson home, taking them near an abandoned home, separating the girl and forcing her to perform a sex act in an overgrown field.

He is charged with several felonies, including Level 1 felony rape. He has denied the accusations and pleaded not guilty.

Indiana court and prison records show he is a convicted serial rapist, dating back to the 1970s and was released from a 1985 Gary rape sentence in March 2024.

The father, from New York, testified he was a Michael Jackson fan, but didnt know much about Gary. The city, originally built for workers at U.S. Steel, has about 70,000 residents with around 50 murders a year and is plagued by at least 10,000 abandoned buildings.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He assumed they would walk inside the home  which is typically locked.

He plugged the address into a phone.

The Post-Tribune asked Gary Mayor Eddie Meltons office what has been done since the incident to help protect tourists safety when they stop and visit the property.

We want to emphasize that this was an isolated incident, and we have not seen any further issues in the area since that time, Gary Police Chief Derrick Cannon said in an email through a mayors office spokeswoman.

Cameras at the home are connected to Gary Polices Real Time Crime Center  launched in 2023, planted at places like gas stations, libraries and McDonalds  that allow officers to pull video surveillance nearly instantaneously. Gary Police works with the Jackson family, residents, businesses to make sure it is covered with footage, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

(W)e were able to leverage this technology, along with tips from the community, to rapidly locate and arrest the suspect within hours. We thank our partners at the FBI and Lake County Sheriffs Office for their valuable partnership in this effort, he wrote.

The city is also encouraging residents to put video camera doorbells on their homes. A man called 911 after his cell phone got an alert from a camera system that three people were in the back of his property on the 2200 block of Washington Street address  where the girl was found.

At the Michael Jackson home, there were at first maybe a dozen people, including a large Hispanic family, the father said. Barnes passed the man and his daughter briefly, saying, dont forget your glove.

I didnt think anything of it, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Minutes later, as he was taking pictures of plaques, Barnes approached the girl from behind with a gun, threatening to shoot her.

Youre just baffled, the man said. It caught me off-guard, frankly.

The gunman, who he identified as Barnes in court, was very calm.

He gave Barnes a couple hundred dollars in cash, thinking it was just a robbery. When Barnes ordered him to give up his phone, the man handed it to his daughter.

On the way to his rental car, the man told the Hispanic family in Spanish that Barnes had a gun and to call the cops, he said.

The man told Barnes to take the car. Barnes ordered them inside, saying he needed a ride. The girl sat on Barnes lap in the backseat. As he gave the man directions, it was not looking good as the area turned increasingly run-down, the father said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Telling him to park near an overgrown alley with garbage, Barnes took the girl out of the car.

Im going to borrow her, the man recalled Barnes saying.

Thats when I realized it was something like..rape, the man said.

He continued to plead with him not to hurt her, then considered trying to run the man down, but didnt want to hurt his daughter. Later, Barnes returned, asking if she was a virgin.

I wont do her like that, Barnes said, the man recalled.

The man tried to hit the cars OnStar button for help, but it didnt work.

I have to do something, he said. This is like my last stand.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The father went into the garage and the abandoned home where they disappeared, finding nothing. Coming out, he was hysterical.

The man ran to Maryland Street, where he saw a woman coming home with groceries. He knocked on the door. The woman who answered called 911 for him.

On cross-examination with defense lawyer Robert Varga, the man said he did not personally witness his daughter being assaulted.

Gary Police told him they did not appear to be on the cameras at the Jackson home, he said. The man said he was baffled, noting they had pictures and a selfie  the latter was shown in court.

In detailed testimony, the teen recalled what happened.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As her dad was ordered to get the car, still at the Jackson home, the assailant  who she also identified as Barnes  told her to touch his genitals over his clothes. Once in the car, he forced her to sit on his lap, then touched her breasts.

I was very scared, she said.

In the car, she told him she was a virgin. When they got to the overgrown field, he told her to kiss him, then forced her to perform the sex act.

It was horrifying, she said. It was disgusting.

At that moment, she dropped the two phones she was carrying in the field. Realistically, there was no way she could have safely called 911, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Later, they walked toward Broadway Avenue. He told the girl to hold his hand and pretend she was his girlfriend. He talked briefly to three people he appeared to know. How long are you going to keep me, she later asks. Six months, Barnes replied.

Im telling (him) I cant do this, she told Deputy Prosecutor Tara Villarreal. I have to go to school.

When they started to hear police helicopters, Barnes took her to Washington Street. She said she was hungry. He texted another man to come over, who took their order and returned later with food.

Barnes fondled the girl behind the home, she said. She continued to talk to him, hoping it would distract him.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I have things Im passionate about, I want to pursue, she said. I need to keep myself alive.

By then, in a city she didnt know, the girl was considering her options. Right at the time she thought it might be best to make a run, a police officer showed.

The trial continues this week.

Gary residents can report crime to a police in a Text-to-Tip line at 219-207-8477.
Touro University graduates over 100 future doctors

LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Touro University Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine and home to the states largest medical school, hosted its spring commencement ceremony for the College of Osteopathic Medicine Class of 2025.

The university celebrated the completion of 169 students from the only Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program in Nevada.

I always liked the idea of doing medicine because Im helping people number one but also I like the challenge of needing to know the human body. The human body is very complex, said Graduate Trevor Ward who is pursuing a career in Anesthesiology.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fifty-five students across 19 specialties will remain in Nevada after graduation to complete their residency training.

Twenty-two states will be welcoming a Touro Nevada graduate to complete their residency programs.

Graduate Rachel Plouse will be studying internal medicine in Denver, Colorado. Originally she wanted to become a writer in high school.

What I love about stories is all these little details you can put together to paint a beautiful picture. The best type of doctor, you have to take all those little details into account and thats what I love about medicine. I really got to put my passion for physiology into the stories of each of my patients, said Rachel Plouse.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Touro Nevada is home to more than 1,500 students in a variety of degree programs, including osteopathic medicine, physician assistant studies, nursing, education, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and medical health sciences.

Touro University was created to help address critical needs in health care and education and as a resource for community service throughout Nevada.

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.
A group of Governors representing northeastern states invited Canadian officials to meet with them in Boston about President Trump's ongoing trade war. Gov. Ned Lamont (D-CT) joins Chris Jansing to explain more on what the state leaders would like to accomplish.
HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT)  The Indiana Department of Transportation has announced that traffic signals will be going back in at the intersection of State Road 66 and Grimm Road in Newburgh.

Officials state beginning on or around Wednesday, May 21, crews will install the signals at the intersection where the new signal will flash yellow for three days on State Road 66 with a red flash on Grimm Road. Following this, the intersection will operate in a normal green, yellow and red-light manner.

Firefighters concerned about removal of stoplight at Grimm Road and State Road 66

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The signals were previously removed a few months ago where INDOT officials said the light was temporary and put there to ensure traffic flow during construction on the displaced left turn.

Officials also say the signal was installed to increase safety and mobility due to the heavy construction and following the completion of the displaced left turn at Epworth Road.

The fire department said it was hoping the light would have been a permanent fixture.

Officials state crews have closely monitored the intersection at Grimm Road, and following the examination, a traffic signal has been warranted.

Courtesy: Indiana Department of Transporation

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).
DARCIE WIGFALL of Salem didnt have any delays getting through airport security for her girls trip to Florida on Wednesday.

With a Real-ID compliant and newly designed New Hampshire drivers license, she sailed through the Transportation Security Administrations checkpoint at Manchester-Boston Regional Airport. It was the first day every traveler 18 or older was required to have a Real ID or passport, or face extra screening to fly within the U.S.

For Wigfall and most others, it was a breeze, even with the redesigned IDs, which gave some TSA agents scanning troubles in other parts of the country since the new licenses rolled out in January.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Wigfall gave a thumbs-up as a TSA agent quickly checked her in, just as fast as one of her companions who all had Real IDs.

They better not (have difficulties). Not today, Wigfall said of the new license before going through security. They better not give me a hard time.

They didnt.

Nor did TSA agents in Orlando, Florida, give a hard time to Gilfords Becky Orton, who flew back to New Hampshire on Wednesday morning without a Real ID-compliant drivers license. Orton made it with only a brief pause for extra screening, which was mostly just security agents swabbing her hands while verifying she was who she said she was.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I wasnt sure what was going to happen, but they just pulled me aside and basically swabbed my palms, Orton said. That was it. I gave my license. Oh, and they called me non-compliant.

How long did it take?

Two seconds, Orton said.

Before coming home though, Orton did do her due diligence by having her passport mailed to Florida because she anticipated extra scrutiny flying back the day Real ID enforcement went into effect.

Sadly, her passport didnt arrive in time, but thankfully it wasnt a big deal, she said.

Nearly everyone who came through Manchester-Boston Regional Airport had a mostly normal experience Wednesday, said Elizabeth Selecky, federal security director for the TSA in New Hampshire.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Weve had a really strong showing of folks who are arriving with compliant IDs. Initially, it started out in the morning around 98% compliant, and were still hovering around the 90% area, Selecky around 12:30 p.m.

Passing the test in NH

John Marasco, the states Division of Motor Vehicles director, said earlier this week the TSA informed him 62% of the credential authentication technology scanners had been upgraded nationwide. The other 38% of machines are expected to be able to accept the states new licenses by May 12, he said.

The Department of Homeland Security certified New Hampshires new design as compliant on March 27. The CAT scanner upgrades were given priority in Manchester and the states two other commercial airports in Portsmouth and Lebanon. Some problems have persisted at other smaller airports scattered around the U.S., and some Granite Staters coming into Boston Logan International Airport had reported scanners rejecting the new licenses earlier this year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last week, the DMV and TSA tried to assure residents anyone with the new licenses or state-issued IDs should be able to travel without long delays. Both urged residents to bring a passport just in case.

Not only has the DMV executed a media blitz for the last year to make sure residents understood how, why and when they should get a Real ID, the TSA did its part as well.

Leading up to the deadline, Selecky and officials from the Manchester airport and Londonderry Police had a table near the entrance to the TSA checkpoint with games and information for travelers to help make something as mundane as having the proper ID fun and engaging for the public, she said.

Because people were traveling out ahead of the kickoff date, theyd be traveling back after Real ID enforcement went fully into effect. So, it was just a good opportunity to answer those questions ahead of kickoff, Selecky said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She said most travelers were well-informed and already had compliant IDs.

Safety in the air

The Real ID Act came about after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. The goal of the program was to establish national safety standards and be able to verify the identities of anyone flying commercially or entering a federal building or nuclear power plant.

Selecky said the bottom line is public safety.

Its an additional layer of security and also something where it helps ensure that people are who they say they are, she said.
Fox News

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent thinks young girls should thank President Donald Trump for giving them a better lifeeven if it means theyll get fewer dolls this holiday season.

Bessent addressed concerns on Tuesday that the sky-high tariffs on imports from China could lead to empty toy shelves by the end of the year, following Trumps comments that young girls may get two dolls instead of 30 dolls, and maybe the two dolls will cost a couple of bucks more.

I would tell that young girl that you will have a better life than your parents, that you and your family, thanks to President Trump, can now be confident again that you will have a better life than your parents, Bessent told Fox News Laura Ingraham on Tuesday. Your family will own a home. You will have a good education. You will have economic freedom. Thats what we are advancing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Over the weekend, Trump told Meet the Press that children would just have to deal with getting fewer toys this year because what we were doing with China was just unbelievable.

I dont think that a beautiful baby girl needsthats 11 years oldneeds to have 30 dolls," he said in an interview aired Sunday. We had a trade deficit of hundreds of billions of dollars with China.

The U.S. and China have been slapping increasingly higher tariffs on each other since Trump unveiled reciprocal tariffs against multiple countries at the start of the year.

Washington and Beijing have remained defiant even as market indexes around the world plummeted over tariff uncertainty, but their icy relations may be changing soon.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will meet with their Chinese counterparts in Switzerland this weekend to talk trade and economics.

The meeting was also confirmed by the Chinese embassy, claiming it had decided to agree to engage with the #US side, in an X post.

Based on full consideration of global expectations, Chinas interests, and the appeals of the U.S. business community and consumers, #China has decided to agree to engage with the #US side. As Chinas lead on China-U.S. economic and trade affairs, Vice Premier He Lifeng will hold pic.twitter.com/2twZyYVYCk  Chinese Embassy in US (@ChineseEmbinUS) May 7, 2025

We have shared interests that this isnt sustainable, Bessent told Fox News.

Asked by Ingraham who between the two countries made the first call, Bessent said there isnt a first callthere are a lot of contact points over time.

What were going to do in Switzerland is we have agreed to talk, then on Saturday and Sunday we will agree what were going to talk about, he explained. My sense is that this will be about de-escalation, not about the big trade deal. We have to de-escalate before we can move forward.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  The trial for a truck driver who was charged in connection with a 2023 crash on Interstate 70 that left six people dead will resume on Thursday.

There will be no court on Wednesday.

May 2025 primary election results for central Ohio

Jacob McDonald, 61, of Zanesville, is facing 26 charges, including six third-degree felony counts of aggravated vehicular homicide, nine fourth-degree felony counts of vehicular assault and 11 first-degree misdemeanor counts of assault.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chief Felony Prosecutor Clifford Murphy is representing the state. Attorney Chris Brigdon is representing McDonald.

On Tuesday, the state called several more witnesses to the stand, including Donald Wagler, the driver of the bus at the time of the crash. Wagler said the traffic conditions that day were not out of the ordinary.

The bus driver said that he was able to slow down when traffic began to pick up and did not have to brake hard. He estimated the bus was traveling at about 5 or 10 mph when it was hit. Brigdon questioned Wagler if the vehicle in front of him braked hard, to which he said he didnt know.

The state also called a crash reconstruction expert, Sgt. Trevor Jasper with the Ohio State Highway Patrol, who testified that data from the charter bus did not show any hard braking. Data showed the bus was traveling 25 mph before an external force caused the speed to accelerate to 43 mph.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Intel reaffirms commitment to division behind its New Albany plant

Jasper said no data indicated that the SUV in front of McDonalds semi was tailgating the bus, and said there was no evidence that McDonald applied brakes in the crash, and agreed with Murphys statement that the semi hit the SUV behind the bus basically full speed.

Another witness called by the state was Jonathan Buffington, who has previous experience with the U.S. Secret Service and is currently an advanced security engineer with The Kroger Company, where he does insider risk and financial fraud investigations.

He said that there is significant evidence to suggest that the cellphone in question was in active use before the crash, which he noted doesnt necessarily mean that a person was manipulating the phone, just that it was actively communicating with the network.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Buffington said that in a one-minute span at 8:37 a.m., there is about 40 megabytes of data being transmitted. He said that AT&T specified that streaming a high-definition video on the AT&T network is equivalent to about 41 megabytes.

The state showed two videos from unrelated crashes in which the drivers of those vehicles were looking up and down between the roadway and their phones. Buffington said its possible to look at the roadway long enough to stay in the lane and maintain a speed without looking at the road long enough to process it.

What to know as Ohios in the midst of peak tick season

He said that because the phone was in active use, it could have created an opportunity for McDonald to be distracted.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The defense began its questioning by focusing on Buffingtons definition of active use, making the argument that just because the phone was receiving data doesnt mean McDonald was using his phone.

The defense asked Buffington again about inattentional blindness, stating that the bus driver looking at a mirror inside the bus could also be inattentional blindness.

McDonald has opted for a bench trial in Licking County Common Pleas Court, meaning Judge David Branstool will decide his fate rather than a jury.

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.
NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI)  Testimony began Wednesday in the trial of a Fall River man charged in the deadly 2019 shooting of a teenager in New Bedford.

Kevin Edwards is accused of firing the shots that killed 17-year-old Paul Callazo-Ruiz and paralyzed a then 19-year-old on Oct. 19, 2019.

PRIOR COVERAGE: Police identify teen shot and killed in New Bedford

Two years later, Edwards was indicted on charges of murder, assault and battery by discharging a firearm, carrying an illegal firearm, and unlawful possession of a large-capacity feeding device.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mauricio Pineda, of New Bedford, faces the same charges, along with accessory to murder before the fact, illegal firearm possession, and two counts of unlawful possession of a large-capacity feeding device.

Opening Statements: Prosecution

During opening statements, prosecutors outlined what allegedly happened the night of the shooting.

Callazo-Ruiz and the 19-year-old were walking along Ashley Boulevard after leaving a restaurant and heading to a friends house when they passed Pinedas home. Thats where Callazo-Ruiz was shot in the back.

Prosecutors allege Edwards snuck up behind them and fired six shots, intending to kill both victims. Callazo-Ruiz was pronounced dead in the backyard, while two bullets left the other teen paralyzed.

Kevin Edwards, accused in 2019 deadly shooting, in Fall River Superior Court  May 7, 2025

The shooting happened in what prosecutors described as Latin Kings gang territory. They said the 19-year-old was a gang member whom Edwards had an issue with, and Callazo-Ruiz had friends affiliated with the gang. Edwards allegedly felt disrespected by the two and their friends.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That night, Edwards and Pineda left the area and stayed at a hotel in Dartmouth, according to prosecutors. Pineda allegedly helped Edwards escape to Florida and get rid of the murder weapon. The gun was later found in Boston, matching the shell casings from the scene.

In Florida, Edwards reportedly denied shooting the victims, but admitted to having a problem with a gang member and anyone associated with them. He also admitted to being at Pinedas home the night of the shooting, staying at the hotel, and having Pineda pay a woman to drive him to Florida.

MORE: 3 charged in 2019 slaying of New Bedford teen

Opening Statements: Defense

The defense argued that Pineda, not Edwards, was the actual shooterand that he blamed Edwards to save himself.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The defense claimed that the shooting started and ended with Pinedaand the evidence will lie in the murder weapon, which they say belonged to him.

The alleged shooter left from and returned to Pinedas house, and Pineda called his sister to arrange the hotel stay in Dartmouth.

The defense said Pineda recorded a video the night of the shooting pretending not to know why police were in the area, and the next day contacted someone named Jasmyn to retrieve the gun. He then sold it in Boston for $700.

They also accused Pineda of plotting to get rid of the only witness, referring to the paralyzed victim. Before handing Edwards the gun, Pineda allegedly said, Dont do anything in front of my house and bragged about having five bodies on him.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The defense said Pineda didnt want retaliation from the Latin Kings against his family.

Months later, Pineda and Jasmyn were arrested in a separate shooting in Fall River. While he was quickly released, he reportedly made no effort to bail out Jasmyn. Prosecutors said Jasmyn later told police that Pineda will do the crime, but he wont do the time.

The defense also pointed out that Pineda gave police three conflicting stories about the shootingone in which he let Edwards into the house afterward, another where he and Edwards both chased and shot the victims, and a third in which he claimed he didnt know Edwards planned to come back and kill the 19-year-old.

The defense argued that it is impossible to believe Pinedas word beyond a reasonable doubt, based on his differing accounts of the shooting. They also claimed there is no evidence to back his or Jasmyns testimony other than their words alone.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The defense concluded that Edwards should be found not guilty of murder and assault.

Testimony

New Bedford Police Officer Samuel Algarin-Mojica, who specializes in social media, drug, and firearm investigations, was the first witness to take the stand.

Prosecutors played several 911 calls for the courtroom. One of the calls was from someone responding to the shooting, asking Does anyone have a compression rag? and saying Keep holding pressure on the wound. Other calls contained audio of people who reported seeing the suspects flee and described the victims who had been shot.

Algarin-Mojica, who was at the scene that night, recalled the 19-year-old saying, I cant feel my legs, Im going to die, and Can I call my mom?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He also described a crowd of around 50 people yelling behind a house, Hes dead. Hes dead. We located a deceased man in the backyard. He found Callazo-Ruiz lying on his back, bleeding from the nose and ears, and the other victim nearby, paralyzed due to a spinal injury.

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.

Follow us on social media:

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Breaking 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 WPRI.com.
President Donald Trump has offered lots of different reasons for hiking tariffs on American imports. He's said that tariffs are going to make the country "rich and strong" and that they will boost tax revenue, reduce the trade deficit, and create leverage for future trade negotiations.

Many of those arguments are economically illiterate, counterproductive, or contradictory.

But the president's latest argument might be the most foolishand most socialistthat he's rolled out yet: America is one big department store, and Trump is the general manger.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Think of us as a super luxury store, a store that has the goods," Trump said on Tuesday while meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. "You're going to come and you're going to pay a price, and we're going to give you a very good price."

This is the second time that Trump has reached for this analogy in the past few days, which makes it seem less like a random thought that popped into his head and more like an intentional messaging strategy. Last month, in an interview with Time magazine, Trump said America was "a department store, and we set the price. I meet with the companies, and then I set a fair price, what I consider to be a fair price."

You probably shouldn't worry too much about this analogy, because the justification for tariffs will probably change again in the next few days (probably to something equally silly). The best and clearest explanation for Trump's use of tariffs is the simplest one: He just likes tariffs, and he doesn't care what anyone else thinks, as Scott Lincicome wrote recently at The Dispatch.

Even so, it's worth taking a moment to enjoy how utterly bonkers this idea is, on a few different levels.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The most obvious objection is, of course, that the country is not a department store. Thinking of America in those terms is collectivist, even socialist. The president is not the CEO. American workers are not his employees. He doesn't get to decide the fair price for transactions between individuals, no matter if those people are both residing in the country or if one of them lives abroad.

In short: Factually, every single part of Trump's analogy is wrong.

Still, let's set all that aside for a moment and pretend that Trump is right. America is a big store that "has the goods," and the president is the "shopkeeper."

Then, let's ask how a department store following Trump's trade policies would operate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

First, that store would tell its suppliers to take a hike, since the store is currently well-stocked and the CEO doesn't want to spend any more money on new inventory. That's effectively what Trump told Carney during their meeting on Tuesday. "We really don't want Canadian steel, and we don't want Canadian aluminum and various other things," he said.

The problem with that is that lots of American companies do want Canadian aluminum (and other imported goods). More than half the imports to the U.S. are raw materials, intermediate parts, or equipmentthe stuff that manufacturing firms need to make thingsrather than finished goods. Many of those imports come from Canada, which is one of America's biggest trading partners.

Go back to the department store analogy, flawed though it is. In this case, the shopkeeper believes he's saving money by refusing to buy products from his suppliers. Trump has said as much.

Next, the shopkeeper decides to raise the prices on everything in the store, figuring that it guarantees higher revenue. That's the tariffs in this analogy. In his mind, the higher prices mean the store will be making twice as much, in addition to not spending anything on inventory. Mission accomplished!

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The problems with this approach should be evident.

A lot of customers would buy fewer things because of the higher prices. Even so, the existing inventory would eventually be depleted. Instead of making more money, the store now has higher prices (making it less competitive than other alternatives), fewer customers, empty shelves, and the employees are starting to look around at each other wondering who gets axed first. Having pissed off his suppliers, the shopkeeper might have a hard time getting them to sell anything to the store in the future, once he realizes the mess he's made.

In the end, nearly everyone is worse off. The suppliers make fewer sales, the customers pay higher prices, employees lose their jobs, and the store ultimately goes out of business.

What Trump doesn't seem to understand, at a very fundamental level, is that a successful department store must buy and sell things. No one gets rich in a capitalist system by hoarding what they have and price gouging customers. That's the sort of thinking you'd expect from a college student in a Che Guevara T-shirt, not a Republican president who is supposedly a whiz at making money.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

America is not a department storeand that's a good thing, because if it was, the shopkeeper would be driving it toward bankruptcy.

The post The Trouble With Donald Trump's 'Department Store' Analogy appeared first on Reason.com.
Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI) has entered the UK Programmes market and hired Rob Munden to lead this venture.

As the head of UK programmes, Munden will be responsible for the development and leadership of BHSI's Programmes business within the UK.

He will leverage the company's underwriting capabilities in accident and health, marine, casualty, executive and professional lines, and property insurance.

Munden, based in London, will also extend his support to BHSI's European operations.

With 30 years in the insurance industry, Munden has expertise in the Programmes space and relationships with managing general agents (MGAs).

He joins BHSI following his tenure as the CEO of a specialist MGA.

BHSI UK head of National Business Mark Walker said: This move further rounds out our capabilities in the UK and Europe, and reflects our long-term strategy to expand our business beyond our traditional large customers to the small and mid-sized businesses that are so vital to our region. With Rob at the helm, we look forward to building a robust Programmes business in the UK and throughout Europe.

Last month, BHSI updated its Private Company Executive Lines products in Canada, offering enhanced directors and officers liability, fiduciary liability and employment practices liability coverage.

The updated proposition offers private companies customisable coverage and limits of up to $25m (C$34.58m).

The company also appointed Shaun Lue as the new private company leader.

"BHSI forays into UK programmes market " was originally created and published by Life Insurance International, a GlobalData owned brand.




PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A truck crashed into the Vancouver Fire Department Station 6 on Tuesday night while crews were away responding to an emergency, authorities said.

According to Vancouver Fire, around 11:30 p.m., a truck veered off the road and crashed into the side of the fire station, coming to rest entangled in an electric fence.

Ombudsman releases scathing report on Portland Fire & Rescue

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Vancouver Police Department and Vancouver Fire both responded to the scene, where they said a person and a dog were inside the truck.

Authorities said that signs on the fence indicated that the fence had a 7,000-volt charge, so firefighters maintained a safe perimeter while talking to the driver.

Eventually, officials said it was determined that the fence was de-energized.

No injuries were reported as a result of 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 KOIN.com.
A federal judge said Wednesday that deporting migrants to Libya or Saudi Arabia, as reported in the media, would violate his previous order if they were not provided written notice and an opportunity to contest ahead of time, according to a new filing.

Immigrant advocacy groups filed an emergency motion to block the removal of migrants to Libya, according to a court filing, after a Trump administration official told CNN that the administration is moving forward with plans to transport a group of undocumented immigrants to the country on a US military plane.

It is unclear when the plane would leave and whether other groups of migrants would also be sent to Libya  a country engaged in an ongoing civil conflict  in the future, the official said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Flight trackers show that a US Air Force C-17 has filed a plan to fly on Wednesday from Kelly Field in San Antonio to Misrata Airport in Libya. The US has repeatedly used the large C-17s to transport migrants in recent months.

Last month, Judge Brian Murphy temporarily blocked the Trump administration from deporting people to countries other than their own without first providing notice and an opportunity to contest it. He said Wednesday that deporting migrants to Libya or Saudi Arabia would violate his previous directive.

The April 30, 2025 Amendment to the Preliminary Injunction further clarifies that the Department of Homeland Security may not evade this injunction by ceding control over non-citizens or the enforcement of its immigration responsibilities to any other agency, including but not limited to the Department of Defense, Murphy wrote.

If there is any doubt  the Court sees none  the allegedly imminent removals, as reported by news agencies and as Plaintiffs seek to corroborate with class-member accounts and public information, would clearly violate this Courts Order, he concluded.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The immigrant advocacy groups that filed the motion asked the court for an immediate order restraining flights carrying migrants to Libya or any other country besides the one where they originated. They also asked the court to order the return of those removed to Libya, if necessary.

According to one attorney cited in the filing, Immigration and Customs Enforcement verbally informed his Filipino client, who has a final order of removal, that he would be removed to Libya. They didnt, however, receive written notice.

The White House declined to comment on the flight plans. CNN first reported the administration was communicating with Libya to have the country take migrants from the United States. Reuters first reported on the potential military flight this week.

The decision to send migrants to Libya, which the UN has previously criticized for its harsh treatment of migrants, is a further escalation of the presidents deportation policies  which have faced widespread political and legal backlash.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When asked about the potential flight, President Donald Trump said in the Oval Office Wednesday: I dont know, youll have to ask Homeland Security.

The Libyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said in a statement that it categorically denies any agreement or coordination with US authorities regarding the deportation of migrants to Libya.

The State Departments website has a Level 4 travel advisory for Libya. Do not travel to Libya due to crime, terrorism, unexploded landmines, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict, the site reads.

A State Department spokesperson declined to comment on the deportation plans, saying: We do not discuss the details of our diplomatic communications with other governments.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

CNN reached out last week to a representative for Libyan Gen. Saddam Haftar, who was in Washington for talks with officials, for comment on the deportation plans. The State Department and a Libyan official said his meetings were not about deportations.

A Libyan official told CNN: Deporting migrants to Libya was never discussed. This did not happen. Everything we talked about was as published on the official agenda.

Conversations about sending migrants to other countries in Africa, such as Rwanda, continue. But there are no confirmed plans for flights to those other countries right now, sources familiar with those discussions said.

Natasha Bertrand, Jennifer Hansler and Kylie Atwood contributed to this report.

This story has been updated with additional developments.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The vice chair of the National Transportation Safety Board has been abruptly removed from his position, the White House confirmed Tuesday, a rare move that comes as the federal agency charged with investigating aviation disasters juggles more than 1,000 cases.

The Trump administration removed Alvin Brown a little more than a year after he was sworn in for a term that was expected to end in 2026. The White House didnt say why he was removed and Brown has not publicly commented.

The decision comes as NTSB investigates nearly 1,250 active cases across the U.S., while supporting more than 160 foreign investigations, according to March testimony by NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The investigations include the deadly midair collision between a passenger jet and Army helicopter in Washington, D.C., that killed 67 people in January and the medical transport plane that plummeted into a Philadelphia neighborhood that same month, killing eight people. It's also investigating the catastrophic collapse of Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge in March 2024, which killed six construction workers.

Jeff Guzzetti, a former NTSB and FAA accident investigator, said he has never seen an administration remove a member of the board.

Board members have been known to stay on after their term is over if the administration hasn't appointed anyone yet and then they leave once the next administration selects someone else, he said.

That happens a lot over the years, but thats normal and expected because you served your term and now its time for someone else to serve in there, he said. "But this wasnt that. This was just more abrupt and directly from the administration, and I dont know what the impetus is.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By Tuesday evening, Browns photo and biography had already been removed from NTSBs website.

The agency includes five board members who serve five year terms, according to the NTSB website. They are nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate. The chairman and vice chairman are both designated by the president and serve for three years. By Tuesday evening, the website only showed four members of the board.

Brown was sworn in as a member of the board in April 2024 after being nominated by then-President Joe Biden and confirmed by the Senate to fill one of two vacancies. His term was expected to run through 2026, according to an NTSB press release at the time. He was the only Black member of the board.

He was the mayor of Jacksonville, Florida, from 2011 to 2015 and joined the board after serving as senior adviser for community infrastructure opportunities for the U.S. Department of Transportation, according to the release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The NTSB is an independent federal agency responsible for investigating all civil aviation accidents as well as serious incidents in the U.S. involving other modes of transportation, such as railroad disasters and major accidents involving motor vehicles, marine vessels, pipelines and even commercial space operators.

It typically works on about 2,200 domestic and 450 foreign cases each year, according to Homendy. She said she expects the number of cases annually to remain high and continue to increase in complexity.

The agency has been excluded from the deferred resignation program and probationary employee cuts to downsize the federal workforce. Homendy often presents NTSB as a lean agency that plays a vital role in ensuring public safety and protection of life and property, although she did ask for modest budget increases last year and this year.

___

Associated Press writer Josh Funk in Omaha, Nebraska, contributed to this report.
May 7 (UPI) -- The Trump administration launched a review into recently alleged anti-Semitic activity at the University of Washington and its affiliated campuses.

The U.S. Departments of Education, Health and Human Services and the General Services Administration announced the probe a day after roughly 30 pro-Palestinian protesters were arrested at UW's campus in Seattle after they occupied an engineering building and demanded the university sever its ties with Boeing, which donated $10 million for the building in 2022.

"The Task Force will not allow these so-called 'protesters' to disrupt campus life and deprive students, especially Jewish students who live in fear on campus, of their equal opportunity protections and civil rights," said U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"This isn't about politics," HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. said in a statement. "It's about whether a federally funded university is upholding the law, protecting civil rights and fostering a safe environment for all students."

UW officials estimated more than $1 million in damages so far from Tuesday's clash, UW's student-run paper The Daily reported Wednesday.

"This isn't about politics," HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. (seen April 30 in the White House in Washington, DC with Education Secretary Linda McMahon) said Tuesday. "It's about whether a federally funded university is upholding the law, protecting civil rights and fostering a safe environment for all students." Photo by Ken Cedeno/UPI

It was led by the so-called Students United for Palestinian Equality and Return who clashed for several hours with campus, Seattle and state police that caused extensive building damage with added dumpster fires. Arrested protesters now face charges of destruction of property, trespassing and disorderly conduct.

The University of Washington encompasses some 20 schools and its three campuses in Seattle, Bothell and Tacoma.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"This was no peaceful protest in support of Palestinian rights or against the war in Gaza," UW President Ana Mari Cauce wrote Tuesday in a statement condemning the violence, saying it will "not be intimidated by this sort of horrific and destructive behavior and will not engage in dialogue with any group using or condoning such destructive tactics."

The university said it is working with King County jail staff to identify any arrested students.

The White House, meanwhile, praised the school's expression of condemnation but stated UW administrators "must do more to deter future violence and guarantee that Jewish students have a safe and productive learning environment."

"We will continue our actions to oppose anti-Semitism, racism and all forms of biases so that ALL our students, faculty, staff and visitors can feel safe and welcome on our campuses," Cauce, the university's president, added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

UW was one of 60 college and university campuses targeted by the Trump administration that threatened to cut federal funding if they did not do more to protect Jewish students from perceived discrimination.

The president warned in March of funding cuts over "illegal" protests.

"Agitators will be imprisoned/permanently sent back to the country from which they came," he wrote on his conservative social media platform. "American students will be permanently expelled or, depending on the crime, arrested. NO MASKS! Thank you for your attention to this matter."

It follows similar moves by the administration against Columbia where $400 million in federal grants were cut, and at Harvard University.
As the Trump administration looks to expand its dubious plans to deport immigrants to foreign lands, theyre apparently looking to war-torn countries with poor human rights records to essentially serve as deterrents for future immigrants.

Having already sent nearly 300 immigrants  whove been framed as hardened criminals despite many of them appearing to have no criminal record whatsoever  to El Salvadors brutal CECOT prison, the administration is planning to expand its deportations to Libya, NBC News reported. On Wednesday, a federal judge ruled that imminent deportation flights to Libya, or any other third country, without due process would violate his temporary restraining order.

Its noteworthy that top Libyan officials denied that any arrangement is in place to accept immigrants from the United States, though the countrys provisional government suggested that some parallel parties that are not subject to legitimacy could be involved.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At the moment, Libya is effectively divided into two factions that are fighting for control of the country, which has been wrought by war and strife after the U.S.-backed coup that dislodged Moammar Gadhafi in 2011. Libyas treatment of immigrants has been decried by human rights activists, and, given the dehumanizing things Trump has said to malign immigrants  such as his claim that they are poisoning the blood of the U.S.  its fair to wonder whether the administration sees Libyas brutality as a benefit in this case.

And the same goes for Rwanda, whose foreign minister recently confirmed that his government was in early talks with the Trump administration about accepting immigrants. As multiple critics of such a deal recently explained to NPR, Rwanda is also plagued by human rights abuses:

Even without the expense, critics say Rwandas abysmal rights record under President Paul Kagame means its no place to resettle people.

Rwanda under the long-ruling Kagame dictatorship is simply not a safe country, its a totalitarian police state by any standard, said Jeffrey Smith, founder of pro-democracy nonprofit Vanguard Africa.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Michela Wrong, a journalist and author of a book on Rwanda, also said the country is not a suitable place to send deportees.

This is a country where the elections are routinely rigged, where opposition activists disappear and are found murderedwhere opposition leaders arent allowed to run in the elections, journalists are jailed or end up fleeing the country, she said.

The Trump administration could easily look to Britain  which previously attempted a deportation arrangement with Rwanda that has widely been considered an expensive failure  for reasons why this might be a bad idea. But the administrations multimillion-dollar prison deal with El Salvador already proves that its willing to waste money on cruel stunts.

Its worth noting that Trump doesnt appear to carry high regard for African nations. As you may remember, he labeled them as shithole countries, along with El Salvador and Haiti, during an Oval Office meeting back in 2018. He has offered no mea culpa for those bigoted remarks, so the fact he essentially wants to dump immigrants in these same places  and potentially even U.S. citizens  suggests he is seeking to punish his partys perceived enemies and effectively threatening anyone who might defy his warped, authoritarian perception of law and order.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It certainly seems to set up a perverse reward structure for other countries. Why shore up your human rights abuses to get on Americas good side  as countries have historically had to do  when you can just tailor your brutality so it aligns with the Trump administrations mission?

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
The Trump administration has developed plans to send migrants to detention centers in Libya on a military flight, according to Reuters.

The flight could depart as soon as Wednesday, officials told The New York Times. The nationalities of those set to be on the flight were not immediately apparent.

Libya is in the middle of severe conflict, and human rights groups have called its migrant detention centers horrific and deplorable.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The effort comes as the Trump administration is working to deter migrants from entering the U.S., as well as send a message to those in the country unlawfully that they can be sent to countries with difficult conditions.

The flight may still not occur due to legal, logistical, or diplomatic restrictions. The administration has already faced pushback for sending a group of Venezuelans to El Salvador, where they are being detained in a prison designated for terrorists.

The State Department advises the American public against going to Libya due to crime, terrorism, unexploded land mines, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict.

The country has faced years of civil war since the 2011 overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi, its longtime dictator. The country remains divided  a UN-recognized government governs western Libya from Tripoli. At the same time, the east is ruled by a government led by the warlord Khalifa Haftar, who controls most of the countrys oil fields.

Libyans walk around in Tripoli's Martyrs Square on April 28, 2025. The Trump administration plans to send migrants to the divided country (AFP via Getty Images)

The U.S. only has a formal relationship with the government in Tripoli, but that didnt stop Haftars son, Saddam, from visiting Washington last week, meeting with several Trump officials. Trump had a friendly relationship with Haftar during his first term in the White House.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Libya serves as a hub for migrants trying to get to Europe, and the country has several detention facilities for refugees and migrants. In a 2021 report, Amnesty International said those facilities made up a horrific hellscape with evidence of sexual violence against men, women and children.

Meanwhile, the Global Detention Project said migrants held in Libya may be the subject of physical mistreatment and torture, as well as forced labor and slavery.

The State Department pointed to harsh and life-threatening conditions in the detention centers in the country in its annual report last year. It found that migrants had no access to immigration courts or due process.

A Libya expert at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Frederic Wehrey, told The Times: I have been in those migrant prisons and its no place for migrants.

He added: Its just a horrific place to dump any vulnerable person.
The Department of Education under President Donald Trump began sending notices to the first of millions of Americans with past-due federal student loans that they will see their wages garnished in just a few months. The news comes the week that the Trump administration begins to send millions of defaulted borrowers into collections.

The garnishments will happen in waves, with the first borrowers seeing the pay deductions in early June. Monday, the Education Department started sending 30-day notices to around 195,000 defaulted borrowers to notify them that they will be subject to the Treasury Offset Program, which collects past-due debts owed to state and federal agencies. Under this program, Treasury can withhold money including tax refunds, wages, Social Security payments, and disability benefits to pay delinquent debt.

Later this summer, "all 5.3 million defaulted borrowers will receive a notice from Treasury that their earnings will be subject to administrative wage garnishment," the department says in its first timeline of the enforcement action.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Education Department has not collected on defaulted loans since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now that it plans to restart the actions, millions could see their financial situation worsen at a time of profound economic uncertainty. According to a report released Monday from credit bureau TransUnion, more than one in five borrowers are at risk of defaulting on their loans, a higher share than pre-pandemic.

Some 20.5% of borrowers have a payment 90 days or more past due, compared with just 11.5% of borrowers in February 2020, per the report. "The current rate of delinquency represents the highest figure ever recorded," it reads. And it could be more widespread than it looks.

When defaulted debt is sent to collections, borrowers can experience less money to cover their billsleading to even more debt accrualand "significant drops" in credit score. Social Security beneficiaries, in particular, are vulnerable to destructive financial and health outcomes when their benefits are garnished, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) sent a letter to Education Secretary Linda MacMahon earlier this week, noting the precarious economic environment and asking the Cabinet official to detail an outreach program and other steps the department is taking to mitigate negative financial repercussions on everyday Americans.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Withholding income from borrowers will unnecessarily exacerbate economic strains in local economies while New Yorkers worry about a tenuous economy and potential recession," Gillibrand wrote. "Im concerned that the timing could not be worse for any changes in student loan repayment policies."

To get out of default, borrowers need to repay their loan in full, which the department acknowledges is "not a practical option for most borrowers." They can also rehabilitate their loans or consolidate them. The loan rehabilitation process depends on the type of loan the borrower has and their servicer, and typically takes a few months to complete. Wage garnishment may continue until the loan is no longer in default or the borrower has made at least five of the rehabilitation payments. Consolidation is quicker, but could lead to paying more in interest. Additionally, borrowers cannot consolidate their loan unless the wage garnishment order has been lifted.

"To avoid the consequences of default, borrowers in delinquency and default should begin repaying their loans," says Ellen Keast, a Department of Education spokeswoman. "A borrower with loans in default can stop Treasury Offset and wage garnishment by entering a rehabilitation agreement and making the first five of the nine required payments."

The Education Department is encouraging borrowers to make a payment, enroll in an income-driven repayment plan, or sign up for loan rehabilitation before they default. Though the Trump administration has fired Education Department workers and moved to dismantle it completely, the agency says it has increased customer service capacity to help borrowers.

This story has been updated with comment from the Department of Education.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
A walrus mother and calf rest on an ice floe in Alaska's Chukchi Sea in 2010. Other resting walruses are in the background. Sea ice extent is tracked by the National Snow and Ice Data Center, a Colorado-based facility that uses data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (Photo by Sarah Sonsthagen/U.S. Geological Survey)

The Trump administration is ending National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration services that monitor Arctic sea ice and snow cover, leading climate scientists said on Tuesday.

NOAAs National Centers for Environmental Information has decommissioned its snow and ice data products as of Monday, the National Snow and Ice Data Center announced.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The data collected by that NOAA office is critical to the daily updates provided by the Colorado-based center, which tracks one of the most obvious effects of climate change: the long-term loss of Arctic sea ice.

It is also critical to the regular sea ice reports produced by Rick Thoman at the University of Alaska Fairbanks Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Policy, as well as to research done by his UAF colleagues.

Thoman said he learned about the decision Tuesday morning.

I was completely blindsided, he said.

Other Arctic-related information that the NSIDC said will be limited by NOAAs discontinuation of services include gridded monthly analyses of sea ice extent and concentration, a dataset that goes back to 1850; photographic records of glaciers and the World Glacier Inventory, which monitors over 130,000 glaciers worldwide; and a dataset tracking snowpack properties.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The NSIDC, in its notice, said the loss of NOAA data means that regular reports published by the center will be limited to basic levels, meaning they will remain accessible but may not be actively maintained, updated, or fully supported.

Arctic sea ice extent on Sept. 11, 2024, illustrated by NASA Earth Observatory using information from the National Snow and Ice Data Center. The image shows the annual minimum extent for 2024. (Image by Lauren Dauphin/NASA Earth Observatory)

For Thoman, who produces regular reports about ice conditions in the Bering, Chukchi and Beaufort seas off Alaska that put current conditions in historic context, the gap in information is a big loss.

The National Weather Services Alaska Sea Ice Program remains in place  for now  so a person in Utqiagvik, for example, will be able to know in real time how far the ice edge is from shore, Thoman said.

But how is this comparing to last year or 10 years ago, 20 years ago? That will be much more difficult, he said. Unless the dataset is restored or provided by other sources, that trend analysis may be lost for good, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gaps in such information pose practical problems in Alaska for activities like infrastructure planning, Thoman said. Youre doing the Port of Nome construction, you want to know that kind of stuff, right? he said.

There are some other sources of ice and snow data available to the NSIDC and to Thoman and other scientists at UAF. The European Unions Copernicus program monitors sea ice, as does the Japan Space Agency, also known as JAXA. But those data collection programs do not provide the same kind of regional information that the NSIDC has been able to provide through the NOAA services, Thoman said.

He sees a common thread in the Arctic data services that NOAA is discontinuing.

Theyre all things that are useful for illustrating change, he said. I mean, why on earth would you take away a glacier photo collection?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A NOAA spokesperson on Wednesday confirmed that the agencys National Centers for Environmental Information on Monday ended its agreement to support six of the NSIDCs information products.

John Bateman, a public affairs officer with the NOAA Satellite and Information Service, said that termination was already in the works before this year.

This process was initiated over a year ago, and the decision was made as part of our ongoing strategic plan to streamline our portfolio, focus resources, align with organizational priorities, and improve the sustainability and long-term success of our products, Bateman said by email.

Data will still be available from the NSIDC, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A scientist at the Colorado-based center said on Wednesday that the full results of the NOAA decommissioning have yet to be determined.

Florence Fetterer, a senior associate scientist who serves as the NSIDCs liaison to NOAA, said it is clear that some agency funding that has supported the centers work is going to end.

The center will continue to provide its ice and snow information services and continue to have automatic updates, but the reduced NOAA support means that the dangers of interruptions have increased, Fetterer said. Were in a much more vulnerable position than we were in the past, she said.

Arctic sea ice has diminished in extent and thickness over the half century in which satellite observations have been made.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Annual summer melt has become more extensive, leaving far wider areas of the Arctic Ocean open. The annual minimums have declined by about 12.4% per decade since the 1980s, according to the NSIDC. The dark surfaces of open water exposed by ice melt absorb more solar heat than white, ice-covered surfaces do, so loss of sea ice is part of a self-reinforcing warming loop called Arctic Amplification.

Historical ice trends in August in the Beaufort Sea are shown in this graph compiled by Rick Thoman of the Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Policy. It is an example of the illustrations that Thoman creates using information from the National Snow and Ice Data Center, which in turn has relied on data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (Graph from Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Policy/University of Alaska Fairbanks)

Last Septembers annual minimum extent was the seventh lowest in the 47-year satellite record, according to the NSIDC.

Even winter sea ice has been declining. This years maximum extent at the end of the freeze season in March was the lowest in the satellite record, according to the NSIDC.

What ice exists now in the Arctic Ocean is younger and thinner than sea ice was in the past. In the 1980s, about a third of the sea ice at the peak of the freeze season was over four years old, and a third was thinner, single-year ice, according to government scientists. But in recent years, less than 5% of peak winter sea ice has been over four years old, and two-thirds of that winter ice has been thinner single-year ice, according to the center.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Up to now, NOAA has been deeply involved in tracking climate change in the Arctic. It has been issuing an annual Arctic Report Card since 2006, for example. Last years report card provided information about how the tundra regions of the Arctic have become net carbon emitters, a change from their past status as carbon sinks.

But NOAAs climate change research is a specific target for elimination in Project 2025, a governing plan published by the conservative Heritage Foundation prior to last years election. Seen as a blueprint for a second Trump administration, the document refers to NOAA and several of its agencies, including he National Weather Service and National Marine Fisheries Service, as a colossal operation that has become one of the main drivers of the climate change alarm industry that is harmful to future U.S. prosperity. Several Project 2025 authors are now members of the Trump administration, and the administration has already fired large numbers of NOAA employees and slashed the agencys funding.

The Arctic data services are not alone in being discontinued by NOAA.

NOAAs National Environmental Satellite, Data and Information Service has announced plans to end data services about ocean currents, underwater terrain, the U.S. hot springs inventory and earthquakes, among other subjects.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One of the services on the chopping block is NOAAs Marine Environmental Buoy Database, scheduled to be discontinued at the end of the month. The buoys collect and transmit data on weather and ocean conditions, and they are used to increase marine safety.

Last month, the Alaska state Senate passed a resolution asking NOAA to not only maintain the buoy system it has in marine waters off the states coast but to improve the system by repairing buoys that are currently out of service.

This article has been updated with a response from NOAA spokesperson John Bateman and scientist Florence Fetterer.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
President Donald Trumps administration has asked the Ukrainian government to take in an unspecified number of people who are being deported from the U.S. but arent Ukrainian citizens, a new report claims.

Trumps team asked Ukraine to take in the group in late January, despite the country not having a functional airport due to ongoing air strikes from Russia, according to documents reviewed by The Washington Post. Its unclear how exactly Ukrainian officials responded, but Ukraine has not accepted any third-party nationals from the U.S.

Theres also no indication Kyiv seriously considered the proposal, the Post reports. Two Ukrainian officials even told the Post that the proposal never reached the highest levels of government.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The proposal came amid Russias ongoing invasion of Ukraine, which began in February 2022. Since then, Congress has passed five bills providing aid to Ukraine, supplying the country with an estimated total of $175 billion, according to the Council on Foreign Relations.

President Donald Trump speaks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The Trump administration reportedly asked Ukraine to take in deported migrants despite the countrys ongoing war with Russia (Ukraine Foreign Affair Ministry)

The Trump administration has proposed similar deals involving migrants to several other countries, including Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama and El Salvador.

El Salvador has taken the U.S. up on the offer, with Trump even spending millions to have the country house deported Venezuelans accused of being gang members inside a notorious megaprison. This came after Trump administration used the Alien Enemies Act in March to justify their deportation of the alleged Tren de Aragua gang members without hearings.

Since then, questions have surfaced about how much evidence the Trump administration had behind their claims. Even El Salvadors president reportedly questioned Trump on whether the men deported to his countrys prison were actually gang members.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Meanwhile, tensions between the U.S. and Ukraine have been on the rise since Trump took office. Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a chaotic Oval Office argument in February, but tensions have appeared to calm slightly after Ukraine granted the U.S. access to critical minerals.

However, a new report from Reuters also claims Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth blocked military aid flights to Ukraine days after Trump took office without the administration knowing.

A verbal order halted 11 flights loaded with artillery shells and other weapons bound for Ukraine earlier this year. That order came from Hegseths office, sparking mass confusion in both Kyiv and Washington, D.C., according to Reuters. The flights resumed several days later after then-national security adviser Mike Waltz reportedly intervened.

The Independent has contacted the State Department and Department of Homeland Security for comment.
By Nazrin Abdul



A one-on-one meeting is currently underway between the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov, and the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Iraq, Fuad Hussein.

The meeting, taking place during Minister Bayramovs official visit to Iraq, underscores the commitment of both countries to strengthening diplomatic ties and deepening bilateral cooperation.

Further details on the agenda and outcomes of the discussions are expected to follow.
SANTA MONICA, Calif.  Bill Ackman has his sights set on being this generation's Warren Buffett.

Though the activist turned long-term investor is hesitant to say he thinks he will be the next Oracle of Omaha.

"Warren's an icon, and he deserves his own place in history," the Pershing Square CEO told Yahoo Finance at the Milken Institute Global Conference on Monday.

Ackman took a big swing at being Buffett-like on Monday.

Pershing Square said it will invest $900 million in real estate company Howard Hughes Holdings (HHH), giving it a 46.7% ownership stake. Ackman will become executive chairman of the company. Ryan Israel, Pershing Square's CIO (and Ackman's successor in waiting), will take on the job of Howard Hughes' CIO.

The plan is to turn Howard Hughes into a diversified holding company that buys other companies to generate value for investors.

If that sounds familiar, it's the model Buffett and business partner Charlie Munger pioneered decades ago.

Yahoo Finance Executive Editor Brian Sozzi (left) talks with Pershing Square CEO Bill Ackman about Trump's trade war, the outlook for stocks, and a new $900 million investment.  Yahoo Finance

In 1965, Buffett took control of then-struggling textile manufacturer Berkshire Hathaway. Today, Berkshire is a mega-conglomerate, owning everything from the Burlington Northern railroad to large stakes in Coca-Cola (KO) and American Express (AXP).

Buffett said over the weekend he will step down as CEO at the end of 2025, after 60 years at the helm. He'll hand over the reins to his hand-picked successor, Greg Abel.

"We're going to start not with elephants, not rabbits, but small animals," Ackman said of his acquisition strategy for Howard Hughes.

Buffett famously said years ago that he was going "elephant hunting" to unearth large takeover targets to put Berkshire Hathaway's significant cash pile to work. Buffett currently has $350 billion in cash, but he has been hesitant to pull the trigger on deals in recent years due to valuations.

Ackman said he differs with Buffett when it comes to valuations, as he's willing to pay up to own faster-growth companies.

"Warren loves the same kind of businesses as we do. He hasn't, I would say, generally been prepared to pay up for them. You know, he has been very, very disciplined. I'm not aware of a business he's purchased where he paid more than 10 times, basically operating earnings," Ackman noted.

"I would say when we bought Chipotle (CMG), it didn't look cheap. Many companies who we invested in over time didn't look cheap at the time, but they became cheap very quickly by virtue of growth in the earnings, cash flow of the business over time. But I would say very similar principles [to Buffett] about how we think about capital allocation, how we think about incentives, how we think about the kind of people we want to do business with, the kind of people we want to partner with."
On April 22, Attorney General Pam Bondi hosted the first meeting of the Task Force to Eradicate Anti-Christian Bias in the Federal Government. Attendees included the secretaries of Defense, State, Homeland Security, Health & Human Services, Veterans Affairs, Education, and Labor, as well as over a dozen high-ranking officials in the administration. Those attending didnt seem to be bothered by the fact that no evidence of such widespread bias exists. Thats because they werent there to solve a problem but to create one. The Task Force claimed to be standing up for religious liberty, but its real goal is to amplify the persecution complex of the Trump administrations Christian nationalist allies and baseand then to use groundless claims of religious discrimination as the basis for the suppression of dissent.

Less than a week later, an incident at the U.S. Capitol made clear that the Trump administration has zero interest in promoting religious liberty. As the Reverend William Barber and other faith leaders opposed to Republican budget cuts gathered to pray at the Capitol Rotunda, they were swiftly surrounded by Capitol Police officers, one wearing a crime scene vest. The press was expelled from the building, and the pastors were arrested.

You would think that a Task Force concerned with anti-Christian bias would take an interest. But the administration appears to have nothing to say. The problem for the Reverend Barber and his fellow pastors is that they would seem to be the wrong kind of Christians. Right-wing pastor Sean Feucht has filled the US Capitol Rotunda with worship time and time again for the last 4 years, in his own words, and yet he has never been arrested or detained. He, apparently, is the right kind of Christian.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the United States, attacks on Christians continue to occur at far lower rates than those targeted at other religious groups, including Jews, Muslims, and Sikhs. The Task Forces exclusive focus on Christian victims exposes its rhetoric about defending religious liberty as transparently insincere.

Instances of alleged anti-Christian bias cited in the executive order that established the Task Force are even more revealing. The first and most prominent example of bias provided is the conviction of anti-abortion activists in connection with their violations of laws intended to protect the rights of individuals seeking health care servicesa group that Trump pardoned in his first days in office. The second example is an internal FBI memo from 2023 that identified certain extremist Catholic groups as potential terror threatseven though an internal FBI review of the memo in 2024 concluded that there was no evidence the memo targeted or resulted in the targeting of anyone on account of their religious beliefs, Catholic or otherwise.

The irony of anti-Christian bias, as the Trump administration defines it, is that it is not, in fact, directed at Christians per se. After all, the Reverend Barber, like many American Christians, appears to anchor a commitment to equality, social justice, and concern for the poor in his faith. Rather, the alleged victims of bias are those Christians who endorse reactionary positions in the culture wars and support Trumps agenda unconditionally.

The other fact about this misnamed anti-Christian bias is that it is indistinguishable from sincere efforts to protect individual rights against discrimination on the part of this subset of people who identify as Christian. If you try to prevent a political activist who holds this preferred identity from discriminating against or infringing on the rights of people of whom they disapproveprecisely what the anti-abortion activists were doingthen you, not they, are allegedly engaging in bias. This is what religious freedom has come to mean: privilege for conservative Christians alone, including the freedom to harass or discriminate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But there is still more to make George Orwell proud. The most insidious aspect of this anti-Christian bias program is that it refers not primarily to actual crimes, such as acts of discrimination or violence, but to thought crimes. The reason the administration cant let go of the FBI memo on terrorist threats from radical-traditionalist Catholic extremists is not that it proves discriminationit does notbut that it serves as evidence that someone somewhere in the FBI had a negative thought about some reactionary people who happen to identify as Catholic.

The thought-crime focus of the Task Force is evident in the memo that Veterans Affairs circulated to its staff immediately after the meeting. That email specifically calls on employees to report on any informal policies, procedures, or unofficial understandings hostile to Christian views.

So, if your office holds the unofficial understanding that LGBTQ people or the nonreligious or progressive Christians, for example, should have equal rightsan understanding clearly hostile to the views of the subset of Christians who believe that woke Christians, the nonreligious, and LGBTQ Americans deserve no such equal protectionsdo you rat out the office for rampant anti-Christian bias? If your agency promotes racial equality, concern for the poor, or the protection of the earth from climate changeviews apparently at odds with the ideas of those who characterize DEI as an ungodly agenda, who promote biblical economics or regard environmentalism as a cult of the green dragon and, conveniently for the fossil fuel interests that fund many of their operations, deny the reality of climate changeshould you turn them in too?

Federal employees will have no trouble picking up the real message of the Task Force to Eradicate Anti-Christian Bias, even though one hopes that they will have the strength to resist. The message is that one political ideologythe one that the administration mislabels as Christianoccupies a place of special privilege in the United States. If anything you say or do can be construed as hostile to this ideology, you will face the coercive power of the federal government.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This kind of thought-crime demagoguery, which panders to the persecution complex of Trumps Christian nationalist base, has been tremendously successful. A 2023 survey, conducted by the Survey Center on American Life, reported that nearly 60 per cent of white evangelicals in America say they face a lot of discrimination. Other surveys show that Republicans and those who lean Republican now say that discrimination against white people and evangelicals is more common than discrimination against Black people.

To make people feel persecuted, it turns out, you dont actually have to persecute them. You just have to tell them, over and over again, that they are being persecuted. The supposed war on Christmas operates on the same principle as the stolen election: You repeat the lie until you believe that it is true.

The public has little difficulty in figuring out the real message too: that there is one group in America that is authentically American and deserving of rights and privileges. The autocrat in power will defend them and their tribe against all others who fail to conform. If those others step out of line, they will be punished, no matter what the law and the Constitution says.

Majoritarian grievance is the energy drink of all fascist movements, but the Task Force is more than just a propaganda stunt to shore up the base. It is weaponizing the constitutional guarantees on the free exercise of religion. Trumps Task Force is turning a legitimate concernthat no one should suffer discrimination on the basis of beliefinto a pseudo-legal foundation for the prosecution of those whose thoughts are hostile to the ideology of the regime and its preferred, protected class of people. This is how it starts.
The White Houses war against NPR and PBS escalated Tuesday after the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) announced that one of its key federal grant programs had been terminated.

In a statement Tuesday, CPB, which backs NPR and PBS, announced that the Department of Education had slashed a federal grant program that has funded childrens shows like Sesame Street in the past.

The move came a few days after President Donald Trump signed an executive order demanding CPB cease federal funding for NPR and PBS over the distribution of content he believes promote left-wing bias.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The grant program, called Ready To Learn, would have administered $23 million into childrens educational shows and games. Along with Sesame Street, grants from Ready To Learn have helped Reading Rainbow, and Clifford the Big Red Dog. The current grant helps the award-winning Molly of Denali, Work It Out Wombats! and Lyla in the Loop.

The Trump administration has terminated the Ready to Learn federal grant program, which funded shows like Sesame Street in the past. / Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

On Friday night, the U.S. Department of Education notified the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) that its 2020-2025 Ready To Learn grant is terminated, effective immediately, the corporation wrote in a press statement posted to its website. On Sunday, CPB informed PBS and 44 public media stations in 28 states and the District of Columbia that receive Ready To Learn grants to stop work immediately, pausing the program in rural and urban communities throughout the country.

The president and CEO of CPB, Patricia Harrison, also released a statement Tuesday clarifying the corporations intent to work with Congress and the Trump administration to save the federal grant program.

Nearly every parent has raised their kids on public broadcastings childrens content. For the past 30 years, Ready To Learn-funded PBS KIDS content has produced measurable, real-world impacts on childrens learning, Harrison said. Ready To Learn has received strong bipartisan support from Congress for the last 30 years because of the programs proven educational value in advancing early learning skills for all children. We will work with Congress and the Administration to preserve funding for this essential program.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The grant was slated to expire in September.

Trump has been campaigning against PBS and NPR for some time. / Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

A spokesperson for the Department of Education, Madi Biedermann, told The New York Times in a statement Tuesday that the grant was funding racial justice educational programming.

The Trump Department of Education will prioritize funding that supports meaningful learning and improving student outcomes, not divisive ideologies and woke propaganda, the statement continued.

In his executive order last week, Trump ordered federal agencies to terminate all direct or indirect funding to NPR and PBS. The White House subsequently criticized the two institutions for fueling partisanship and left-wing propaganda in a follow-up fact sheet and criticized them for pushing progressive pet projects.

The administration even listed Sesame Street as an example by name and criticized the long-running program for partnering with CNN for a town hall aimed presenting children with a one-sided narrative to address racism amid the Black Lives Matter riots.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Both NPR and PBS have vowed to fight back against Trumps order, with PBS chief executive Paula Kreger calling the move blatantly unlawful in a Friday statement and promising to explore all options.

The Trump administration has been campaigning against NPR and PBS for some time, slamming the two institutions for a long list of ailments as recently as April.
Donald Trump won the presidency in part on promises to deport undocumented immigrants with criminal records. But his earliest executive orderstrying to undo birthright citizenship, suspending critical refugee programsmade clear he wants to attack legal immigrants, too. In our new series, Who Gets to Be American This Week?, well track the Trump administrations attempts to exclude an ever-growing number of people from the American experiment.

In Donald Trumps first 100 days in office, his administration grabbed headlines for going to extremes on deportationstargeting students and permanent residents, and invoking a 200-year-old law to rush migrants out of the country without due process and send them to a Salvadoran prison.

All this might lead you to think hes following through on his campaign promise to deport millions of undocumented immigrants from the U.S.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But the administration isnt carrying out deportations on anything close to the scale it promised, according to some think tanks that analyzed available immigration data for the presidents first 100 days in office. And the scramble to boost Trumps deportation numbers seems to be pushing immigration officials to get sloppy; theyve removed multiple children who are U.S. citizens from the country in recent weeks. But true to form, the Trump administration is hoping the Supreme Court will come to its rescue. Will a monarchical court allow a monarchical executive branch to continue lawless deportations?

Heres the immigration news were keeping an eye on this week:

The Trump administration is aiming to deport 1 million immigrants this year, according to the Washington Postand despite the administrations extreme, lawless methods, a look at the numbers suggests that goal is far out of reach. Looking at all of Trumps immigration actions since he took office on Jan. 20, the Brookings Institution concluded that theres been more arrests, less due process, but not yet more deportations.

One major reason is that the volume of people attempting to cross U.S. ports of entry has drastically dropped, largely because of the presidents executive order that effectively ended all parole and humanitarian programs that previously allowed migrants to lawfully enter the U.S. This group used to be the bulk of deportations under former administrations, but now that it has sharply declined under Trump, immigration authorities are forced to find immigrants wherever they may be located within the countrya much more complicated task.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Migration Policy Institute also noted there are a limited number of detention beds across the country, and once immigrants are on U.S. soil, they can assert their legal rights and fight a deportation action.

NBC News calculated that in February, Immigration and Customs Enforcement removed 11,000 migrants, and just over 12,300 in March. MPI says those figures are higher than the monthly pace of removals during Trumps first term, when he deported 6,800 noncitizens per month, but still lower than former president Barack Obamas, when ICE deported about 12,900 noncitizens per month. All in all, MPI believes the Trump administrations current pace of deportations could lead to only about 500,000 immigrants being removed from the country in 2025, far below the presidents 1 million goal and even below the Biden administration, which deported 685,000 migrants in fiscal year 2024.

On the other hand, immigration arrests have doubled under Trump 2.0 compared to in fiscal year 2024, according to MPI, jumping up to about 650 per day as of mid-March. ICEs detention capacity has also increased from 41,500 beds in fiscal year 2024 to 54,500 as of March, leaning on detention centers across the country, particularly in Louisiana.

Immigration officials frenzied efforts to achieve the presidents deportation goals have swept up multiple U.S. citizens in recent months, including a 4-year-old who was undergoing cancer treatment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In March, the federal government was accused of violating immigration law in Chicago, where at least one U.S. citizen was unlawfully targeted. Julio Noriega is a 54-year-old who was born and raised in Chicago but was arrested during an ICE raid and held in detention overnight. In April, U.S. citizen Jose Hermosillo, who is from New Mexico, was arrested while visiting friends in Arizona. He was held in detention for nine days until his family provided his U.S. birth certificate and Social Security card. Juan Carlos Lopez-Gomez is a dual citizen of Mexico and the U.S. and was arrested in Florida after being wrongfully charged with being an unauthorized alien. He was detained for 48 hours until a judge verified his U.S. birth certificate.

And last week, a family of U.S. citizens who recently moved from Maryland to Oklahoma awoke to about 20 armed federal agents knocking on their door in the middle of the night. The mother of three daughters told local news that she tried explaining to the agents that they were all citizens and that they had the wrong house, as the agents search warrant listed the names of the homes previous tenants. Yet the agents proceeded to tear through the familys home confiscating their belongings, including phones, laptops, and their cash savings, claiming it was necessary for evidence.

In Louisiana, ICE agents also recently deported two noncitizen mothers with their U.S. citizen children to Honduras. One of the mothers was forced out of the country with both of her children, one of whom was 4 years old and undergoing treatment for Stage 4 cancer. Their attorney told NBC News that ICE was aware that the child was sick and a U.S. citizen, yet the child was deported without medication. Agents also did not allow the mother to speak with her attorney or family before being deported. The other mother deported with her 2-year-old U.S. citizen child was barely given time to speak with the childs father before an ICE officer hung up the phone, according to their attorney.

In recent administrations, about 1 percent of all those detained by immigration agents have been actually U.S. citizens, Jacqueline Stevens, a political science professor at Northwestern University, explained to the Wall Street Journal. Under Trumps mass deportation agenda, she believes that number will increase.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They dont care about our Constitution and they are determined to try to detain and deport as many brown and Black people as they possibly can, Kica Matos, president of the National Immigration Law Center, told MSNBC back in February.

Since 1990, temporary protected status has allowed hundreds of thousands of immigrants to live and work in the U.S. without threat of deportation, but Trump tried to end the program shortly after taking office.

Congress created TPS back in 1990, and it allows citizens of certain countries suffering from natural disasters or warincluding Venezuela, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, Afghanistan, Sudan, Ukraine, and Lebanonto enter the U.S. and work here without threat of deportation. Each country stays on the TPS list for a period of 18 to 24 months, at which point the government must determine whether it will extend TPS protections. Right before leaving office, former president Biden extended TPS for nearly 1 million immigrants from Venezuela, El Salvador, Ukraine, and Sudan that will carry them through fall 2026unless Trump gets his way.
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX)  The criminal trial of former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters began right here in Grand Junction and has since captured the nations attention, including that of President Donald Trump.

Just yesterday, the president took to social media fiercely advocating for Peters, who was sentenced in October 2024 to nine years of incarceration after a jury found her guilty on seven counts for her role in a data breach scheme linked to the 2020 presidential election.

In a May 5 dated post on Truth Social, President Trump calls for the Department of Justice to take all necessary action to secure her release. He calls Peters a hostage being held in a Colorado prison by the democrats for political reasons, and an innocent Political Prisoner, describing her as horribly and unjustly punished in the form of Cruel and Unusual Punishment. The president also directly mentions Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser, labeling him Radical Left, and calling Peters situation a Communist persecution by the Radical Left Democrats to cover up their Election crimes and misdeeds in 2020.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Weiser released a statement to us in response saying quote, Tina Peters is in prison because of her own actions. A grand jury indicted her and a trial jury found her guilty of breaking Colorados criminal laws. No one is above the law. The Colorado Attorney Generals Office will continue to defend this criminal conviction in post-conviction proceedings and on appeal. We are firm in pursuing justice for the people of the state of Colorado, protecting free and fair elections, and standing up for the rule of 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 WesternSlopeNow.com.
When 85,000 people fled Afghanistan in 2021, lawyers from major law firms stepped up to file their political asylum petitions. When the names of more than 700 detainees at Guantanamo Bay were released in 2004, lawyers from large law firms became counsel for many of the men. And when transgender people across the US need help with changing their names, lawyers from large law firms are often the ones helping them to file the paperwork.

Yet now, amid an aggressive crackdown by the Trump administration against large law firms aligned against him, a worry has set in that types of pro bono legal work, where hundreds of lawyers from large firms mobilize in humanitarian crises, may no longer be politically viable.

Thats because President Donald Trumps executive orders against a handful of major law firms barring them from federal buildings and punishing their clients with government contracts, among other restrictions, have prompted other major firms, including longtime pro bono powerhouses, to cut deals with the White House.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The sea has parted, Juan Proano, the CEO of LULAC, one of the most prominent civil rights litigants for Hispanics in the US. There are some firms that are much more reserved about their engagement.

Several law firm partners who have done significant pro bono work in the past told CNN that lawyers at large firms now may think twice before pitching cases that would step too far into politics.

I know from talking to organizations, they are having a hell of a time finding firms to partner with, one senior partner at a large law firm told CNN. Firms are really gun shy to take on cases that may upset the administration.

The Trump-era political climate, thus, may hurt the areas of pro bono legal services that used to be typical  defending peoples rights, such as in reproduction and abortion, LGBTQ and voting access cases, and in legal work around immigration, according to more than a dozen law firm partners, pro bono program directors and legal aid group leaders, which are often the connector between impoverished people in need of lawyers and the big firms that have lawyers to spare to help.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We cannot do this work without the support of the legal community and without the significant benefit of legal services that they provide, Proano told CNN. We rely on the ability to have access to these lawyers and these law firms.

People march during the LULAC Dallas Mega March for a bipartisan immigration reform to the Dallas City Hall in Dallas on March 30. - Aric Beacker/AFP/Getty Images

LULAC found itself at the center of Trumps storm briefly in March. LULAC had been a long-time pro bono client of the major law firm Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, which Trump sought to punish because some of its attorneys had investigated him when they were prosecutors.

Paul Weiss chairman met with Trump to find a way out from under the executive order  a so-called existential crisis for this corporate defense firm  and hours before a deal with the White House was announced, a Paul Weiss lawyer called LULAC to tell the group the firm could no longer represent it on one matter, according to a person familiar with the developments.

The Paul Weiss deal set the tone for several other settlements Trump made in the following weeks with eight other major law firms. Each contains a pledge to contribute between $40 million and $125 million, depending on the firm, toward pro bono work on issues including fighting antisemitism and helping veterans, for instance. Yet those are areas where pro bono culture is already well-established in the legal industry.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The story of LULAC being dropped as a legal client was noted in national magazines, and shortly after that, Paul Weiss reversed course again, saying it would continue to do pro bono work for the organization, the person said. In a statement, a spokesperson for Paul Weiss said it was proud to represent LULAC in this matter, look forward to future representations, and have enormous respect for their work.

Still, the point had been made.

Big Laws legacy is changing

The pride Big Law traditionally has had for touting firm pro bono work already appears to be evaporating, little by little. Several law firms pro bono web pages and press releases from past efforts are no longer accessible online.

Paul Weiss, for instance, still touts representing victims of the Charlottesville White supremacist rally in 2017 on its site, as well as a case it brought for the historically Black church in DC that had its property damaged by the Proud Boys in 2021.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But one press release, announcing the $1 million win in a case against the Proud Boys, is no longer available. The firm spokesperson declined to comment about changes to the site.

The impact may be worst at the large firms that have settled with Trump. Some, like Skadden Arps, which pledged $100 million in its settlement with Trump, have storied pro bono programs, some of the largest in the industry.

Skadden sits among the top dozen law firms in the US for its lawyers combined pro bono contributions, according to a 2024 survey from American Lawyer Magazine. Nearly two-thirds of Skaddens 1,300 lawyers devoted more than 20 hours to pro bono work in 2023, according to the survey. The firm didnt respond to a request for comment.

A glance at court records also reveals the impact: In the hours and days after the Trump administration banned Muslims coming from some countries to the US in 2017, crowds of attorneys from major law firms rushed to airports to help. Top lawyers from many storied law firms continued to be involved both behind the scenes and in the years of court fights.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The ranks of large law firms behind the public interest groups filing the majority of challenges against the administration are thinner this year. A few major law firms that have chosen to fight against Trumps legal industry executive orders  Perkins Coie, Munger Tolles & Olson, Jenner & Block and others  are appearing on cases opposing government policies against immigration and transgender rights, for instance. But several firms that may have been involved in the past are not.

The office of the law firm Perkins Coie is seen on April 10 in Washington, DC. - Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

James Sandman, a longtime advocate for pro bono work in DC and a past head of both the DC Bar and a major Washington-founded law firm, Arnold & Porter, had pointed words for Paul Weiss and others, whom he called the settling or capitulating firms.

They now have a new partner in vetting every pro bono decision they make: Donald Trump, Sandman said. They effectively disqualified themselves in playing any role in opposing the Trump administrations attacks on the rule of law.

Trump has subsequently said he expects private law firms to take on pro bono clients around his tariffs plan, or in the coal industry, which is typically the realm of paying legal clients. The White House also issued an executive order late last week directing the attorney general to find a way to use  private-sector pro bono assistance for law enforcement officers who unjustly incur expenses and liabilities for actions taken during the performance of their official duties to enforce the law. Law firms are still waiting to see what that may mean.

Never a scarier time

Gary Thompson, the former head of international firm Reed Smiths Washington office and a long-time pro bono advocate, recalled that in prior presidencies and even the first Trump administration, lawyers opposing the Justice Department were always treated with respect.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thompson was among the attorneys from major law firms who stepped up in 2004 to represent Guantanamo Bay detainees to petition for their release.

I dont know if my client is guilty or innocent, but what I do know is there should be due process to find out, Thompson said, reflecting on the driving force of much of the legal industrys pro bono efforts. Everybody I spoke to, I explained it was about the rule of law. Military leadership on the base showed us respect.

But now, Thompson said, he would need to think twice if he were still working at a large firm that could be a target of Trumps legal revenge tour. He now runs his own three-person law firm.

Each lawyer will have to decide, what are the potential consequences to my career? If I dont keep a low enough profile, will I be fired? Would I even be prosecuted for taking the case? he added. Ive never seen a scarier time in my career.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thompson doesnt take on major pro bono matters anymore, partly because his firm is too small to weather long-term unpaid client engagements  the types of work that only the largest firms can accommodate.

In other realms, Big Laws pro bono programs will be untouched.

Many firms regularly field lawyers toward local court cases, representing the homeless, tenants in disputes with their landlords and people who are victims of domestic violence, for instance. And some of the immigration pushes of firms from previous years, such as in representing asylum seekers from Afghanistan, are largely finished.

There are silver linings, too, in Trumps political climate. Amy Nelson, the legal services director at Whitman-Walker Health, which often works with firms helping LGBTQ people and others in need in the Washington, DC, area, told CNN she hasnt seen a blip in support from the legal industry.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I am delightfully surprised that so far, so good, she said.

But the fear still hangs. A pro bono attorney at one large firm questioned what might happen if, say, a conservative group sought out Big Law backing to take on one of the initiatives that had long been anathema to Big Law: opposing same-sex marriage. What would the White House do if it wanted to pressure a firm into working on a case that sought to overturn Supreme Court precedent, for instance, the attorney mused.

Sandman, the longtime pro bono legal advocate in Washington, said that would push firms over the edge.

I dont think they could force that on a big law firm, he said. That would be dynamite. That would push firms too far. If that came out, if a firm took on a representation like that at the behest of the Trump administration, stand back.

CNNs Maria Moctezuma and Sylvie Kirsch contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
President Trumps recent cryptocurrency dealings are casting a shadow over efforts to pass legislation for the industry at a key moment, as the Senate gears up to vote on a stablecoin bill Thursday.

Senate leadership is preparing to hold a vote on the GENIUS Act, which would create a regulatory framework for payment stablecoins. However, a contingent of crypto-friendly Democrats have threatened to vote it down, accusing Republicans of prematurely cutting off negotiations over the bipartisan bill.

The showdown over the stablecoin bill comes as the Trump familys growing portfolio of crypto projects fuel the legislations opponents, who argue it will allow the president and his family to profit from the industry.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Crypto investors and advocates who were elated by Trumps moves to bolster the industry are now growing concerned.

Trumps not helping himself, said Nic Carter, a founding partner at crypto investment firm Castle Island Ventures, adding, Everyone I know in crypto is very frustrated by this. Its like a completely unnecessary own goal.

Trumps close ties to the crypto industry have raised concerns since before he took office. As the president embraced digital assets on the campaign trail last fall, he and his sons launched their own crypto venture, World Liberty Financial. And shortly before his inauguration, the president and first lady Melania Trump launched meme coins.

Both World Liberty Financial and the presidents meme coin have drawn scrutiny once again in recent weeks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump is set to attend a dinner with the top investors in his meme coin later this month. The announcement in April, which encouraged participants to hold as much $TRUMP as you can, caused the price of the token to spike 60 percent.

World Liberty Financial also announced last week that Emirati firm MGX would be using the companys brand-new stablecoin to conduct a $2 billion transaction with crypto exchange Binance.

Democrats have decried the moves as efforts by the president and his family to enrich themselves, calling for ethics investigations into both the meme coin dinner and the World Liberty Financial.

They argue that the meme coin and stablecoin can be used by Trump to improperly profit off his office and by outside actors, including foreign actors, to attempt to buy influence with the president.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Trump family owns a 60 percent stake in World Liberty Financial, and a company affiliated with the family receives 75 percent of the revenue collected from its coin sales.

The White House has previously downplayed concerns about potential conflicts of interest between Trump and his family crypto businesses, saying the president uses a blind trust to avoid improprieties.

The growing scrutiny surrounding the president and his familys crypto dealings is threatening to upend his administrations efforts to pass long sought legislation providing the industry with greater regulatory clarity.

The administration and Republican lawmakers have repeatedly said they hope to pass both stablecoin and market structure legislation by August.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Stablecoin legislation appeared to be sailing forward, with versions passing out of both the Senate Banking Committee and House Financial Services Committee earlier this year.

However, progress came to a screeching halt last week. After Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) moved Thursday to expedite a vote on the GENIUS Act, nine Democrats who had previously backed the upper chambers stablecoin bill pulled their support.

The group, which included four senators who voted to advance the bill out of committee in March, said Saturday that the floor text put forward by Republicans lacked sufficiently strong provisions on anti-money laundering and national security, among other issues.

Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), the top Democrat on the Senate Banking Digital Assets Subcommittee, accused Republicans of attempting to force through the legislation without further negotiations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

All of a sudden, the language changed, he told MeidasTouch in an interview recorded Tuesday. They backtracked on some of the stuff we had already approved. They werent even moving forward with further legislation. And then they announced the date of the first vote.

I think the purpose of that was really to put Democrats in a bad position and force us to vote for it, he continued.

You cant throw us in the corner, Gallego added. You cant try to f us and then say like, Hey, deal with it. Thats just not going to work, especially when you still need our votes no matter what.

Thune signaled an openness to making changes sought by Democrats on Tuesday but also appeared intent on moving the GENIUS Act forward despite recent pushback. He underscored the months-long process that had gone into the legislation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

My question is  when will the Democrats take yes for an answer? Thune said at a press conference. If they have other suggestions and things that they want incorporated into the draft, we are certain welcome to taking a look at and working with them on that. But we need to start moving forward.

This is a piece of legislation that has broad bipartisan support, he added. I think if we get it on the floor, it could get a really good vote from both Republicans and Democrats. But weve got to get it there.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) noted the two sides are engaged in discussions.

Look, we all know the level of corruption in the Trump administration is higher than any administration probably in American history, he said Tuesday at a presser. But on stablecoins, Democrats and Republicans are talking to each other.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Meanwhile, opponents of the GENIUS Act pointed to the World Liberty Financial deal in urging lawmakers to vote against the stablecoin bill. The deal was announced the same day Thune moved to fast-track the legislation.

A shady fund backed by a foreign government just announced it will make a $2 billion deal using Donald Trumps stablecoins, Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the Senate is gearing up to pass the GENIUS Act  stablecoin legislation that will make it easier for the President and his family to line their own pockets. This is corruption and no senator should support it, she added.

Concerns about Trumps crypto moves have also spilled over to the House side, prompting Democrats to walk out of a hearing on market structure legislation Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), ranking member on the House Financial Services Committee, objected to the joint hearing between the panel and the House Agriculture Committee.

She sought to block the hearing from moving forward, taking advantage of the need for unanimous consent.

Republicans and some Democrats ultimately proceeded with a more informal roundtable, while Waters and several other Democrats left to hold a separate hearing on Trumps crypto ties.

I, in good faith, could not provide my consent because our Republican colleagues refuse to address the unprecedented conflicts of interest presented by President Donald Trump and his family, Waters said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Carter noted the problems plaguing stablecoin legislation could spell trouble for more complicated market structure legislation.

Even something as apparently uncontroversial as the stablecoin bill, which has been bipartisan, if thats not moving forward, I think it would be an extreme long-shot that we could expect anything on market structure, he told The Hill.

Virtually everyone I know in crypto wished that Trump had just executed on his crypto platform and then not done anything else, he added. Right now, its like theyre hugging us to death.

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 has declared May 8 a holiday to commemorate the end of World War II.

"All over the World, the Allies are celebrating the Victory we had in World War II. The only Country that doesnt celebrate is the United States of America, and the Victory was only accomplished because of us," Trump said in a post on Truth Social on May 5, days before the proposed holiday.

This year is the 80th anniversary of what is known internationally as Victory in Europe (VE) Day, and England, for example, is commemorating the event over four days, according to Reuters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump said on May 1 that he wanted to recognize May 8 as "Victory Day for World War II," and Nov. 11 as "Victory Day for World War I." However, Nov. 11 is already federally recognized as Veterans Day.

Trump on India airstrikes on Pakistan: It's a shame.' What did Marco Rubio say about it?

Is May 8 now a federal holiday?

No. Federally recognized holidays must be created by Congress, but presidents can recognize a holiday by proclamation.

Therefore, it will not be a paid holiday for federal employees like other federal holidays.

"We will not be closing the Country for these two very important Holidays, November 11 and May 8, World War I and World War II, because we already have too many Holidays in America," Trump said in the post.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump is expected to sign a proclamation to recognize May 8 as a holiday.

Is Trump renaming Veterans Day?

Trump suggested on May 1 that the Nov. 11 holiday could be renamed to "Victory Day for World War I," but his most recent Truth Social post did not specify what the holiday would be called.

Nov. 11 is already a federally recognized holiday: Veterans Day. It celebrates the end of the fighting in Europe in World War I and celebrates America's veterans, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs.

The holiday in some form or another has existed since the first anniversary of the 1918 armistice, and has been celebrated on Nov. 11 and known as it is today, "Veterans Day," since 1971.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Veterans Day is one of 12 federal holidays in 2025, according to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management. Here is the full list:

Jan. 1, Wednesday: New Year's Day

Jan. 20, Monday: Martin Luther King Jr. Day; coincidentally, that date was Inauguration Day, Trump's second as the 47th president of the United States

Feb. 17, Monday: Washington's Birthday, celebrating George Washington and days after Abraham Lincoln's birthday. Many state and local governments designate it as Presidents Day.

May 26, Monday: Memorial Day

June 19, Thursday: Juneteenth

July 4, Friday: Independence Day or July Fourth

Sept. 1, Monday: Labor Day

Oct. 13, Monday: Columbus Day

Nov. 11, Tuesday: Veterans Day

Nov. 27, Thursday: Thanksgiving Day

Dec. 25, Thursday: Christmas Day

Will Florida celebrate Victory Day on May 8?

May 8 is not on the list of holidays that the state of Florida observes as paid holidays.

Gov. Ron DeSantis did not immediately respond to a request for comment on what the state will do in response to Trump's proclamation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Nov. 11, however, is a state holiday to honor Veterans Day.

Here is the full list in 2025:

Jan. 1, Wednesday: New Year's Day

Jan. 20, Monday: Martin Luther King Jr. Day

May 26, Monday: Memorial Day

July 4, Friday: Independence Day

Sept. 1, Monday: Labor Day

Nov. 11, Tuesday: Veterans Day

Nov. 27, Thursday: Thanksgiving

Nov. 28: Friday after Thanksgiving

Dec. 25, Thursday: Christmas Day

Contributing: Melina Khan, Cheryl McCloud, C.A. Bridges; USA TODAY Network

Kinsey Crowley is the Trump Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at kcrowley@gannett.com. Follow her on X and TikTok @kinseycrowley or Bluesky at @kinseycrowley.bsky.social.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Trump: May 8 honors end of World War II, pitches Veterans Day rename
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Donald Trump has issued a proclamation designating Thursday as a day for the United States to celebrate victory in World War II as countries in Europe already do.

Cities from London to Moscow are holding parades, flyovers and memorials this week as the world observes Thursdays 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, when Nazi Germany surrendered to Allied forces, including the U.S.

Here's what to know about Trump's plans:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What is Trump doing and why?

The Republican president is designating specific days for the U.S. to celebrate being on the winning side in World War I and World War II. He complained in recent social media posts that Americans don't spend enough time celebrating those achievements, which he said wouldn't have been possible without the U.S.

Many of our allies and friends are celebrating May 8th as Victory Day, but we did more than any other Country, by far, in producing a victorious result on World War II. I am hereby renaming May 8th as Victory Day for World War II and November 11th as Victory Day for World War I, he said last week on social media. We won both Wars, nobody was close to us in terms of strength, bravery, or military brilliance, but we never celebrate anything  Thats because we dont have leaders anymore, that know how to do so! We are going to start celebrating our victories again!

Can Trump rename an existing federal holiday?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No. Nov. 11 is already Veterans Day, a federal holiday in the U.S., and only Congress can create, rename or take it back. That could explain why Trump backed away from his renaming plan and said he'd instead be declaring national holidays instead.

We won two World Wars, but we never took credit for it  Everyone else does! All over the World, the Allies are celebrating the Victory we had in World War II. The only Country that doesnt celebrate is the United States of America, and the Victory was only accomplished because of us, he wrote Monday on social media. Without the United States, the War would have been won by other Countries, and what a different World it would be. Therefore, I am hereby declaring a National Holiday in celebration of the Victories of World War I, where the Armistice was signed on November 11, 1918, and World War II, where the Victory date was May 8, 1945.

He signed a proclamation on Wednesday that designates May 8, 2025, as a day in celebration of Victory Day for World War II. He's expected to issue a similar proclamation for World War I later this year.

Is Thursday a day off from work?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No, Thursday is not a federal holiday and therefore not a day off from work. Only Congress can create federal holidays, and Trump has complained that there already are too many of them.

What does he envision will happen around the U.S. on these days?

It's unclear. Trump didn't say what he envisions happening, and the proclamation didn't include any details. But he said during an unrelated appearance Wednesday in the Oval Office that he noticed France and other countries were all getting ready for Victory Day.

We dont celebrate it and I think thats a great disservice, Trump said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What happens in other countries?

On major anniversaries like this years 80th, Britain celebrates VE Day with parades, airplane flyovers and memorials. The British royal family traditionally watches the airplanes pass overhead from a balcony at Buckingham Palace.

Russia celebrates on Friday, and its Victory Day parades are a massive show of its armed forces, with thousands of troops, scores of heavy equipment rolling across Red Square and flyovers involving dozens of warplanes. Military parades, fireworks and other festivities are held in cities across the country.

What have veterans groups said about Trump's plans?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rob Couture, director of public affairs for the Veterans of Foreign Wars, said they are encouraged by any steps that bring attention to the service of veterans from that time.

Just over 66,100 of the 16.4 million Americans who served in World War II were alive as of 2024.

-

Associated Press writer Jill Lawless in London contributed to this report.
President Trump praised Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) and endorsed his campaign for reelection next year in a social media post Wednesday  a potential boon to the GOP congressman as Democrats target his swing district in the midterm election cycle.

But Trumps pronouncement also comes as Lawler, who has been in the House since 2023, is considering a run for New York governor next year.

Congressman Mike Lawler is a Strong Champion, and Highly Effective Representative, for the Great People of New Yorks 17th Congressional District! Trump wrote on Truth Social.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Congressman Lawler is grateful for the Presidents support and appreciates his commitment towards addressing issues important to New York, Lawlers campaign said in a statement to The Hill on Wednesday.

As Congressman Lawler has said repeatedly, he will make a decision on running for Governor in June.

Lawler told FOX 5 NY on April 28 that his decision will ultimately boil down to whether he thinks the gubernatorial race is winnable in a state that has elected only Democratic governors for nearly two decades.

Were going through this process of evaluating the state and the data and to see whether or not theres a real pathway, he said. Im not interested in going on a kamikaze mission, you know. If I do it, its going to be because I believe theres a pathway to win.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gov. Kathy Hochul (D), who assumed the governorship in 2021 after the resignation of then-Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D), defeated GOP nominee Lee Zeldin in 2022 to keep the office at least through 2026. She is running for reelection and seen as the front-runner for the Democratic nomination.

Several Republicans, including Lawler, have expressed interest in the race, particularly after the Hochul-Zeldin match-up three years ago became the states closest gubernatorial contest in decades.

Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), whom Trump recently described as one of his biggest allies, said in a Fox News interview Sunday that shes strongly considering a run for governor, after her nomination to become U.S. ambassador to the United Nations fell through earlier this year.

Absolutely, I am strongly considering, because look at the crises that Kathy Hochul and single-party Democrat rule have delivered to New Yorkers, she said. Im taking a hard look at it, and the outpouring of support has been tremendous.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Stefaniks retreat back to the House, and her usually safe Republican district, was a sign of GOP jitters heading into the midterms, when its already razor-thin majority will put enormous importance on a handful of swing districts.

Both Lawlers and Stefaniks seats could become more vulnerable to flipping Democratic if the incumbents opt to run for governor instead of Congress.

Trump, a native New Yorker who saw a large swing in his favor there in the 2024 election despite losing the state, also endorsed Long Island Republican Bruce Blakeman for reelection to his current post as Nassau County executive on Wednesday.

Blakeman too is said to be mulling a run for governor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

New York State Democratic Party spokesperson Addison Dick said Trumps apparent meddling in the governors race will link the eventual GOP nominee to his policies.

Donald Trump has confirmed that the New York GOP primary for governor is all about him and his toxic agenda, Dick said. No matter who stumbles out of the GOP primary, Trumps meddling guarantees that any GOP nominee will be tied to his rising costs, his sinking economy, and his failed agenda  no matter how hard they try to run from it.

Updated at 11:29 a.m. EDT

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.
Residences stand in front of a Venture Global LNG storage tank in Cameron, Louisiana. (Getty Images)

On many nights, John Allaire can turn off the lights in his house and keep reading a book by the glow of 80-foot-high flares blasting from a gas export terminal a mile away.

The prospect of a second liquified natural gas (LNG) terminal in his once-peaceful corner of southwest Louisiana is unsettling for Allaire, a retired oil and gas engineer whose house sits near Calcasieu Pass.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Theres the ongoing noise pollution, ongoing flaring, he said. And the light pollution is unbelievable.

Venture Global, the U.S.s second-largest LNG producer, plans to build a second terminal alongside its Calcasieu Pass facility in sparsely populated Cameron Parish. Venture also owns the newly built Plaquemines LNG terminal, about 20 miles south of New Orleans.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

The proposed second Venture terminal in Cameron, dubbed CP2, was recently granted an export permit by the U.S. Department of Energy. The permit was the fifth LNG-related approval from the department since President Donald Trump took office and lifted former President Joe Bidens pause on new LNG permits.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Trump administration aims to cut red tape around projects like CP2 and boost the availability of affordable, reliable, secure American energy, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said in a statement.

Louisiana has four LNG terminals and two more are under construction. Many more are welcome, said Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry.

Every time these projects come to Louisiana, [they] give the people of our state the ability to have their income raised, he said during a speech last month announcing Australian company Woodside Energys decision to invest nearly $18 billion in a stalled terminal project, formerly known as Driftwood LNG, near Lake Charles, about 22 miles north of CP2.

Environmental groups say reviving the LNG building boom has serious consequences for coastal communities, fisheries and the climate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It has been damaging to our coast, damaging to our air quality and our water quality, said Anne Rolfes, director of the Louisiana Bucket Brigade. Its destroyed property values [and] its certainly damaging to our health.

Venture did not respond to a request for comment.

LNG is natural gas cooled to a liquid state, compressing its volume and making it easier to store and ship long distances. Six of the countrys eight LNG export terminals dot the western Gulf Coast, including the worlds largest, Sabine Pass LNG in west Cameron. LNG shipments from the U.S. have skyrocketed over the past decade, rising from about 16 billion cubic feet in 2014 to just under 4.4 trillion cubic feet last year, making the U.S. the world leader in LNG exports. A little more than half of U.S. LNG goes to Europe, where demand has slowed in recent years, but Asia is hungry for more, with that continents share of exports rising to more than 30% last year, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Ventures Calcasieu Pass terminal had a rocky startup process that began in 2022 and ended last month when the facility sent its first shipments. The companys construction strategy, which relied on pre-fabricated, modular components to speed construction and cut costs, resulted in power outages, several repairs and dozens of pollution violations, according to company documents and a report by the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis. In 2022, the facility exceeded its air pollution permits 139 times, according to the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality. A March warning letter from DEQ indicated many problems havent been fixed. The letter cited recent inspections showing several areas of concern, including frequent emissions violations and failures to report air pollution exceedances.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Much of the pollution comes from flaring, a process often triggered by operational malfunctions that force facilities to burn excess gas to avoid fires or explosions. Flaring emits chemicals that can cause cancer, respiratory illnesses and other health problems.

The Calcasieu Pass facility is allowed 60 flaring hours annually by DEQ, but nearby residents allege it goes well over that allowance.

Its been ongoing, sometimes days in a row, Allaire said.

Commercial shrimpers in Cameron and Calcasieu parishes say dredging to deepen waterways for large LNG transport ships has harmed habitat and made fishing harder.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The numbers were catching now have decreased drastically, shrimper Travis Dardar said.

Boosting the U.S.s LNG export prowess is part of one of the biggest fossil fuel build-outs in our lifetimes, and will dampen efforts to shift toward cleaner energy sources like solar and wind, said Ethan Nuss, an organizer with the Rainforest Action Network.

This will deepen the climate crisis and lock us into decades of emissions, he said.

Rolfes said opposing LNG is now doubly hard because both the state and federal government strongly back the industry. Instead of focusing on regulators, environmental groups may attempt to delay projects through lawsuits or convince the industrys insurers and investors that LNG is a bad long-term bet.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Well keep getting the word out about their accident history [and] their horrible track records as business partners, Rolfes said. But we acknowledge the odds are tremendous.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE

This article first appeared on Verite News New Orleans and is republished here under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
Singapore-based developer of bitcoin mining ASIC chips and rigs Canaan (CAN) has had a rough run, but could be a five-bagger, suggests Benchmark analyst Mark Palmer.

Palmer on Tuesday initiated coverage of the ADRs with a buy rating and a $3 price target. The shares closed yesterday at $0.62, lower by 72% year-to-date.

Canaan's dual strategy is focused on the development of ASIC bitcoin chips and rigs, and the expansion of its self-mining operations, especially in the United States, said Palmer.

"CANs vertically integrated approach differentiates it within the bitcoin mining space while positioning it to capitalize on both chip/rig sales and proprietary mining revenues," he wrote.

Canaan's push into home mining rigs has diversified the company's revenue, he further noted.

The equipment maker is also growing its self-mining capacity in the U.S. and globally.

"While the company derived just 16.3% of its 2024 revenues from its self-mining operations, it intends to increase the total computer power driving its self-mining operations by mid-2025 to 10 EH/s in North America and 15 EH/s globally," Palmer added.

Canaan has a stack of 1,408 bitcoin with a current value of around $133 million, or nearly 70% of its current market cap, said Palmer. That should be supportive of the company's valuation.

Read more: Bitcoin Miners With HPC Exposure Underperformed BTC for Third Straight Month: JPMorgan
Keith Kellogg, US President Donald Trump's Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia, has voiced the idea of a demilitarised zone to be controlled by both Ukraine and Russia. He asserts that a 30-day ceasefire could be a decisive issue.

Source: Kellogg on Fox News; European Pravda

Details: Kellogg believes a way out of the situation could lie in a ceasefire "in place", meaning that both sides would retain control of the territories they currently hold.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Quote: "So you tell the Ukrainians Look, this is one of those things that's going to be evolving over time. And if you do a ceasefire in place, the ground that you own, the ground that you fought for, that's your ground right now."

Details: Kellogg then gave examples from the Baltic States after the Second World War and the reunification of Germany, noting that political realities can change over time.

He claimed that Ukraine is ready for a temporary demilitarised zone: Ukrainian forces may withdraw by 15 km, and so would the Russian ones. This would create a 30-kilometre no-fire zone, to be controlled by the military of the "coalition of the willing".

Quote: "The Ukrainians are willing to freeze in place, what I call a ceasefire in place. And then for a period of time, they're willing to set up a demilitarised zone. What they basically said is, "we'll back up 15 km, you back up 15 km" to the Russians. So you've got these 30 kilometres that you can actually observe."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"And if you get to 30 days, I really believe this, you get to a 30 day ceasefire, it'll get extended. And it is so hard to do this when you're a military guy, to restart a conflict. And I don't think they will."

Background:

Earlier, it was reported that the Trump administration handed over a one-page document to Ukraine in Paris, presented as a "final proposal" for a peace settlement. Among other things, the US is prepared to recognise Russia's control over Ukrainian Crimea and ease sanctions against Moscow.

On 24 April, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the US had presented its strategy for the Ukrainian territories during talks in London, but that after the US proposal, "another paper appeared".

According to Zelenskyy, this was drawn up after a conversation between the Ukrainian delegation, the European team and US representatives in London.

Later, Reuters published the text of the proposals to end Russias war in Ukraine which Ukrainian and European officials had handed to the American side during the talks in London.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
The intensely hostile letter that Education Secretary Linda McMahon sent to the leadership of Harvard yesterday has a lot going on. But the most notable thing about it is what it leaves out.

To hear McMahon tell it, Harvard is a university on the verge of ruin. (I say McMahon because her signature is at the bottom of the letter, but portions of the document are written in such a distinctive idiolectWhy is there so much HATE? the letter asks; it signs off with Thank you for your attention to this matter!that one detects the spirit of a certain uncredited co-author.) She accuses it of admitting students who are contemptuous of America, chastises it for hiring the former blue-city mayors Bill de Blasio and Lori Lightfoot to teach leadership (like hiring the captain of the Titanic to teach navigation), questions the necessity of its remedial-math program (Why is it, we ask, that Harvard has to teach simple and basic mathematics?), and accuses its board chair, Penny Pritzker (a Democrat operative), of driving the university to financial ruin, among many other complaints. The upshot is that Harvard should not bother to apply for any new federal funding, because, McMahon declares, todays letter marks the end of new grants for the University.

What you will not find in the McMahon letter is any mention of the original justification for the Trump administrations ongoing assault on elite universities: anti-Semitism. As a legal pretext for trying to financially hobble the Ivy League, anti-Semitism had some strategic merit. Many students and faculty justifiably feel that these schools failed to take harassment of Jews seriously enough during the protests that erupted after the October 7, 2023, terrorist attack on Israel by Hamas. By centering its critique on that issue, the administration was cannily appropriating for its own ends one of the progressive lefts highest priorities: protecting a minority from hostile acts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Now, however, the mask is off. Aside from one oblique reference to congressional hearings about anti-Semitism (the great work of Congresswoman Elise Stefanik), the letter is silent on the subject. The administration is no longer pretending that it is standing up for Jewish students. The project has been revealed for what it is: an effort to punish liberal institutions for the crime of being liberal.

The effort started with Columbia University. In early March, the administration canceled $400 million in federal funding for the university. This was framed explicitly as punishment for Columbias failure to adequately address anti-Semitism on campus. The administration then issued a set of demands as preconditions for Columbia to get that funding back. These included giving the university president power over all disciplinary matters and placing the Middle Easternstudies department under the control of a different university body. Columbia soon announced that it would make a list of changes that closely resembled what the administration had asked for. McMahon praised the changes and said that Columbia was on the right track to get its money back, though the government has still not restored the funding.

Having successfully extracted concessions from Columbia, the government moved on to Harvard. On March 31, the administration said that it was reviewing $9 billion in federal grants and contracts awarded to Harvard. As with Columbia, it argued that the university had not sufficiently combatted anti-Semitism on its campus. Harvard then began negotiations with the federal government. But on April 11, the administration sent Harvard a list of far-reaching changes that the university would have to make to continue to receive federal funding. These included screening international students for disloyalty to the United States and allowing an external body to audit faculty viewpoints to ensure diversity.

[Rose Horowitch: Endowments are next]

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This was too much for Harvard. Neither Harvard nor any other private university can allow itself to be taken over by the federal government, the universitys lawyers wrote in a letter to administration officials. The university sued the Trump administration, arguing that the government had violated Harvards First Amendment rights and failed to follow the procedures to revoke federal grants. The government retaliated. It immediately froze $2.2 billion in grants and $60 million in contracts to Harvard, announced that it would consider revoking Harvards nonprofit tax-exempt status, and threatened the universitys ability to enroll international students. Even as the war escalated, the putative rationale remained the same. Trump wants them to come to the table and change things, McMahon told Fox News. Its a civil-rights issue on campus relative to the anti-Semitism. McMahon never explained how cutting funding for biomedical research would help address anti-Semitism on campus. But the administration at least gestured in that direction.

No longer. The offenses enumerated in the McMahon letter are a disconnected grab bag of grievances. The closest thing to a legal theory for denying Harvard future grant funding is the accusation that the school has violated the Supreme Courts ruling striking down race-based affirmative action. But revoking an institutions funding under federal nondiscrimination law requires following a multistep process that takes months, Derek Black, a law professor at the University of South Carolina, told me. The government has to investigate a complaint and prove that the university will not take any steps to resolve the discrimination. Without showing that Harvard has violated nondiscrimination lawas opposed to merely asserting it, without evidence, in a rambling letterthe government cant refuse to award it grants. They went from step one to step five or six in a week, Black said. Theres no We dont like you authority in the federal Constitution or in statutory law. In fact, quite the opposite: Youre precluded from that.

Harvards leaders have, under duress, acknowledged that the institution needs to make changes. Last week, the university released reports detailing incidents of anti-Semitism and anti-Muslim bias and a pervasive sense of non-belonging among Jewish students. It has announced that it will not support affinity-group graduation celebrations and that leaders will no longer make statements on political issues that dont affect the universitys core function. We were faced with a set of demands that addressed some problems that I and others recognized as real problems, Harvard President Alan Garber told The Wall Street Journal. But the means of addressing those problems is what was so objectionable. The fact that the university is willing to make changes strengthens its legal case challenging the cancellation of funding. Several legal experts have predicted that the university will prevail in court.

In a 2021 speech titled The Universities Are the Enemy, thenSenate candidate J. D. Vance declared that universities, as left-wing gatekeepers of truth and knowledge, make it impossible for conservative ideas to ultimately carry the day. The solution, Vance said, was to honestly and aggressively attack the universities in this country. Weve been seeing the aggressive part of that formula for two months. With the McMahon letter, the administration has gotten much closer to honesty.

Article originally published at The Atlantic
The month was January 2025. The Houthis were not attacking American ships, and the U.S. was not bombing Yemen. The month is May 2025. The Houthis are not attacking American ships, and the U.S. is not bombing Yemen. In between, there was a whole lot of bombing.

President Donald Trump claimed victory over the Houthis on Tuesday afternoon, after several months of a U.S. air campaign against them. "They just don't want to fight, and we will honor that, and we will stop the bombings," he told reporters at the White House. Shortly after, the foreign ministry of Omanthe famously neutral sultanate bordering Yemenannounced that it had brokered a U.S.-Yemeni ceasefire deal "ensuring freedom of navigation and the smooth flow of international commercial shipping."

In fact, the Houthi movement, one of the two rival governments in Yemen, has not attacked commercial ships since the beginning of Trump's term, when Trump brokered a ceasefire in Gaza. (The Houthis had started the attacks in November 2023, demanding such a ceasefire.) Trump began an air campaign in Yemen three days before the Israeli-Palestinian ceasefire broke down. The new Yemeni ceasefire is simply a return to the status quo ante bellum, at least with regard to shipping.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Although no American troops have died during Trump's war in Yemen, the campaign has been incredibly costly for U.S. military preparedness. The military spent $1 billion in just the first three weeks, a U.S. official told CNN. Last week, the U.S. Navy accidentally dropped a $64 million fighter jet into the sea. It lost another one to a landing accident on Wednesday; the jet was returning to its carrier after the ceasefire was announced. And it's not just about the financial price tag. The Department of Defense warned Congress behind closed doors that it was "risking real operational problems" due to being stretched thin by the Middle Eastern war.

Significantly, Trump seems to be extracting the U.S. from Israel's war. Asked whether the deal included a Houthi-Israeli truce, State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce told reporters that "this is about the Red Sea, the attacking of ships." Israel was reportedly not even informed of the deal beforehand. After the deal was announced, Houthi leader Mahdi al-Mashat said that the attacks on Israel would continue and warned Israelis to "stay in your shelters." Trump told reporters at the White House that he "will discuss that if something happens with Israel and the Houthis."

Just three days ago, Houthi forces hit the international airport in Tel Aviv with a ballistic missile, wounding six people and shutting down all of Israel's international air traffic. American troops in Israel, armed with a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system, reportedly tried and failed to shoot down the missile. In response, Israeli planes bombed the airport in Sanaa and the port in Hodeida, killing seven people. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promised to further retaliate against Iran, which arms the Houthis, "at a time and place of our choosing."

Along with stopping the Yemeni campaign, Trump hinted that there were more deals to be made. He promised to make "one of the most important announcements that have been made in many years about a certain subject," with "really, really positive" news, before leaving on a trip to the Middle East next week.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The U.S. and Iran have been negotiating for a deal to restrain the Iranian nuclear program, and the next round of talks is scheduled to take place in Oman over the weekend. U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff brokered the Yemeni deal expecting to build momentum with Iran, reports CNN.

Vice President J.D. Vance told an audience on Wednesday that negotiations were going well and that "there is a chance to reintegrate Iran into the global economy," although he said that the Trump administration would go to war before allowing Iran to build a nuclear weapon.

Egyptian sources also told The New Arab, a British newspaper, that Witkoff came to Egypt with a proposal to enforce a "long-term truce" in Gaza before Trump's visit to the region. Israel is mobilizing tens of thousands of troops for a new invasion of Gaza. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who oversees the administration of the Palestinian territories, told a conference that Gaza would be "totally destroyed" and the Palestinian population "concentrated" into a small area, after which they would "leave in great numbers" for other countries.

But Trump seems to be losing patience with the Middle East in general, and with Israeli demands in particular. The downfall of former National Security Adviser Mike Waltz symbolizes Trump's shifting attitude. Waltz was demoted after accidentally adding Atlantic editor Jeffrey Goldberg, an inveterate war hawk and a personal enemy of Trump, to a group chat for discussing war plans in Yemen. But Waltz had already fallen out of graceafter Trump discovered that Waltz was talking to Netanyahu behind Trump's back about plans to attack Iran.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And the shift is not just a case of Trump's personal grudges. His base of support is increasingly fed up with Middle Eastern wars as well. "We've been told Iran is on the verge of having nuclear weapons at any moment for as long as I can remember," Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (RGa.) wrote on X on Tuesday. "People just don't care anymore because none of these things actually affected our lives unless they were in the military and shipped over to these foreign countries and blown up."

The post Trump Gets Bored With the War in Yemen appeared first on Reason.com.
Donald Trump says he doesnt know whether he plans to deport hundreds of immigrants to Libya, amidst reports that his administration will do so as soon as Wednesday.

Is the administration sending migrants to Libya? Trump was asked during a press conference Wednesday afternoon.

I dont know, he responded. Youll have to ask the Department of Homeland Security. Whether Trump is lying or not, his answer does nothing to quell the terrifying possibility that immigrants could be sent to a country whose prisons have been called a hellscape and open slave markets by human rights organizations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Tuesday, U.S. officials confirmed to multiple news outlets that the government was planning to send undocumented immigrants to Libya in what would be a cruel and unlawful escalation of the presidents deportation efforts. In March, Trump unlawfully deported 200 Venezuelan immigrants, the majority of whom had no criminal record, to El Salvador, where they are now being held in CECOT, a mega-prison notorious for human rights abuses.

More than a decade after Libyas authoritarian state was toppled, the political situation in the country remains incredibly unstable. Its been plagued by conflict for years, and the State Department advises Americans not to travel there amidst the risk crime, terrorism, unexploded land mines, civil unrest, kidnapping and armed conflict. Its a stunning display of irony given the government may literally send people there against their will.

Libyan officials have denied the country is communicating with the United States, Reuters reported.

The president is reportedly eyeing Africa as a whole as his next target for deportations, which will likely face a flurry of legal challenges. Rwanda has already accepted at least one deportee from the United States, while several other African countries including Benin, Angola, Equatorial Guinea, and Eswatini have been mentioned in various media reports.
Imagine if the billion-dollar companies that run oil refineries or chemical plants could ask the government for permission to spew more pollution into the air with less hassle than it takes to renew your drivers license. Thats now a reality.

In recent weeks, the Trump administration has created a shortcut for fossil fuel and chemical companies to request exemptions from rules that limit dangerous air pollution, such as mercury and arsenic, which are known to cause cancer and brain damage. All they have to do is email the White House.

At the same time, the U.S. Senate has voted to overturn a regulation that required nearly every industrial site across the nation to control the seven most dangerous air pollutants. The move hands a major win to about 1,800 of the worst-polluting facilities in the country. In coming weeks, the House is expected to pass the same resolution, and President Donald Trump has signaled he will sign it into law.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Combined, the moves level a historic double blow to the nations ability to control air pollution. This is the first time in the 55-year history of the Clean Air Act that Congress has actually moved to weaken these protections.

Essentially, the federal government is rolling back protections that, in the past, they acknowledged were saving lives and preventing diseases in neighborhoods in every pocket of the country.

The Trump administration says the moves will stimulate the economy by making it cheaper for industrial companies to operate by not having to upgrade their technologies to limit pollution.

Environmental advocates warn this fast-track process, rolled out with a template and pointers for success for polluters, is an unprecedented attempt to sidestep safeguards that protect the health of Black communities and other vulnerable groups bearing the brunt of air pollution. Black people are nearly two times more likely than white people to live in communities with harmful air pollution, according to the American Lung Associations 2025 State of the Air Report.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A coalition of health, community, and environmental organizations, including the Environmental Defense Fund, has released a new interactive map highlighting more than 500 industrial sites across the U.S. that could soon be exempt from federal air pollution limits through the pollution pass being granted by Trump.

The map identifies facilities such as coal-fired power plants, petrochemical manufacturers, and sterilizers, many of them concentrated in states like Texas, Louisiana, and Ohio.

The maps release comes as advocates warn that the White House and Environmental Protection Agencys new exemption process lacks transparency and public input, and could roll back decades of hard-won progress in communities already burdened by industrial pollution.

This reckless and dangerous invitation for industrial sources to evade compliance with national pollution limits puts millions of Americans in harms way, said Vickie Patton, general counsel for the Environmental Defense Fund.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Users of the map can enter their address to see which polluting facilities are nearby, filter by facility type or location, check proximity to public schools, and access links to contact the EPA directly. The tool also tracks which facilities or their representatives have requested or been granted exemptions, and will be updated as new information becomes available.

What this means for families living near plants

Corporations will cash in while families and children breathe a toxic mix of cancer-causing chemicals, said James Pew, director of federal clean air practice at Earthjustice, one of the nations largest environmental law firms.

Already, in 97% of all U.S. counties, Black people have the highest rate of deaths attributed to air pollution, and income levels across races do not contribute to any differences.

For families living near these plants, it could mean more days when the air is unsafe to breathe, more children struggling with asthma, and more loved ones lost to pollution-linked illnesses. Across the nation, Black children cough through asthma attacks at rates two times higher than white children and die from asthma at a rate four times higher.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When you remove limits on pollution, you get more of it, said Joanna Slaney, the political and government affairs vice president for the Environmental Defense Fund. This will mean more cancer, more brain development issues for young children, and more heart and lung problems for older people.

For now, advocates are urging the EPA to withdraw the exemption offer and uphold its responsibility to protect the public, especially those communities that have borne the brunt of environmental harm for generations.

What about the rights, the health, and the well-being of the people who are suffering and dying from exposure to this pollution? said Robert Taylor, the director of Concerned Citizens of St. John in Louisiana. The President is making sure these polluting plants have the right to kill us.

The post Trump Is Giving 500+ Plants a Pass to Pollute More. Is Your Home at Risk? appeared first on Capital B News.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents raided multiple restaurants in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, including one owned by the husband of CBS News anchor Norah ODonnell.

Chef Geoffs, an American eatery founded by ODonnells husband Geoff Tracy, had its Northwest D.C. location near American University raided by nearly a dozen ICE agents on Tuesday morning, according to Fox 5.

The restaurant, which has been open for more than 20 years, serves a variety of standard American fare, including $17 pizzas, a $19 burger, homemade pasta dishes that range from $20-30, and a variety of salads and bowls. Its website states it offers contemporary American cuisine and a friendly neighborhood feel fit for any occasion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The immigration agents, dressed in Homeland Security uniforms, reportedly asked to see the staffs I-9 forms that verify their identity and employment authorization.

The raid took place early Tuesday morning and lasted about an hour and a half. No one was taken into custody.

CBS News icon Norah O'Donnell has been married to restaurant owner Geoff Tracy since 2001. / REUTERS

The Daily Beast has reached out to Chef Geoffs and the Department of Homeland Security for comment.

Shawn Townsend, president of the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington, told Fox 5 that they were concerned about the fearmongering tactics used on a number of D.C. restaurants.

There was no one detained or arrested that Ive heard of but regardless of that fact, disrupting food service during lunch hours while restaurants are open is alarming, he said. There is a sense of fear Immigrants make up a large amount of workers in our restaurants in the district.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Washingtonian reported that ICE agents also visited Millies in Spring Valley, Pupatella and Chang Chang in Dupont Circle, and Ghostburger in Shaw to demand I-9 forms.

The agents, who said they were doing administrative work, reportedly left Pupatella after staff referred them to the pizzerias corporate office.

No raiding, no anything, Pupatella executive Natasha Neely told the magazine. They didnt even enter the building.

At Millies, agents did not push back when the general manager denied their request to question employees just as the restaurant was opening for lunch.

They all came in all of the public entrances at the same time, owner Bo Blair told The Washingtonian. We were under the impression that they were focusing on trying to find criminals And this is just a whole new level of harassment to our hard-working, law-abiding employees.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The raids followed rumors on Monday that ICE agents would begin targeting D.C. restaurant staff and food delivery workers this week.

The raids are part of the governments broader push to deliver President Donald Trumps long-promised mass deportation blitz.

Trump administration officials have repeatedly sought to assure the public that deportations would target violent criminals. A CBS investigation earlier found, however, that hundreds of people have been deported despite having no criminal history.
President Donald Trump reacted to India's airstrikes on Pakistan, calling it "a shame."

In what Reuters calls the worst fighting between the nuclear-armed enemies and neighbors in more than two decades, India launched airstrikes against Pakistan's most populous region on May 6. Pakistan said it shot down five Indian fighter jets in response, the outlet reported.

India's attack came after Islamist militants killed 26 people in Indian-administered Kashmir territory in April, according to Reuters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"It's a shame, we just heard about it," Trump said in response to a reporter's question in the Oval Office on May 6. "I guess people knew something was going to happen, based on a little bit of the past."

India and Pakistan's hostile relationship dates back to the abrupt end of British colonial rule in 1947, when the land was divided between India and Pakistan based on religious majorities. The hasty transition led to mass violence and a devastating refugee crisis. The two countries have engaged in several military conflicts since.

"They've been fighting for a long time," Trump said. "I just hope it ends very quickly."

Timeline: India and Pakistan's military conflicts

What did former Florida Senator Marco Rubio say?

Former Florida senator Marco Rubio, now serving as Secretary of State, interim national security advisor, acting archivist for the U.S., and acting administrator for the U.S. Agency for International Development, echoed the president's reaction to the attacks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I am monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely," Rubio said in a post on X. "I echo @POTUS's comments earlier today that this hopefully ends quickly and will continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution."

Rubio is a Miami native and won the U.S. Senate seat for Florida in 2010. He once ran against Trump in the 2016 presidential primaries and, almost 10 years later, was tapped by Trump to be the first Latino secretary of state.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is friendly with Donald Trump

India, which became the most populous country in the world in 2023, has been seen by multiple presidential administrations as a strategic counterweight to China.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the White House to meet with Trump in February, and the two discussed a trade deal ahead of Trump's widespread tariffs, according to Reuters. Trump also offered F-35 jets to the country at the meeting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The friendship between the United States and India is the strongest I believe its ever been," Trump said at the joint press conference in February.

What is Pakistan's population?

Pakistan is home to 257 million people, according to the U.S. Census.

Where is Kashmir?

Kashmir is a disputed territory in the Himalayas where China's, India's and Pakistan's borders converge. Both Pakistan and India claim the region in its entirety, though each only controls part of the region, according to Reuters.

What is happening between India and Pakistan?

On April 22, an Islamist militant attack killed 26 in an Indian-administered part of Kashmir. India blamed Pakistan for the attack, though Pakistan denied the claims and called for an investigation, according to Reuters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On May 6, India attacked nine sites in Pakistan including some in Kashmir in response to the 26 deaths, Reuters reported.

Pakistan said it is mounting a military response, the outlet reported.

Contributing: Joey Garrison, Francesca Chambers, Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy, USA TODAY

Kinsey Crowley is the Trump Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at kcrowley@gannett.com. Follow her on X and TikTok @kinseycrowley or Bluesky at @kinseycrowley.bsky.social.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: India, Pakistan fighting: What did Trump, Rubio say about attacks?
I come from a long line of agitators, but to the likely chagrin of my ancestors, Ive never been one for protest: Im lazy and soft and have always viewed the whole concept as almost entirely performative.

Thats why I was surprised to find myself, on a blustery May Day, standing on the federal courthouse plaza in downtown Indianapolis alongside hundreds of other lawyers, reciting our oath together in a protest against the creeping authoritarianism of the second Trump term.

Not exactly the Battle of Seattle (it wasnt even officially a protest), but the point is, Im worried enough to show up. And that worry stems from a question I keep hearing from people like me: center-left, educated, reasonably engaged white-collar professionals.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Why arent more Americans alarmed?

Governance by whim

Yes, our polarized information ecosystem plays a major role. But I think there are other, less obvious reasons that help explain how weve become desensitized to the erosion of democratic norms.

First, weve normalized unilateral executive action. The steady rise of executive orders  from Barack Obama onward  has shifted expectations. Many folks cheered when presidents acted unilaterally for causes they support: protecting DACA recipients or canceling student debt. But, in a democracy, form sometimes matters more than function.

Briggs: Jim Banks would let Trump commit any crime you can imagine

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You cant cheer executive power when it helps you and then act shocked when its used for something far worse. Rule by pen creates an inevitable slide towards governance by whim.

Second, the anti-Trump movement became the resistance that cried fascism. I was horrified and embarrassed by much of Trump 1 and 2, but not every terrible policy is authoritarian. When every action is labeled fascist, people stop listening. To a regular person tuning in occasionally, the volume of alarm makes it easier to tune out entirely.

Third, theres a bad-faith argument that still resonates emotionally, which goes something like this. Many elite institutions have moved aggressively left in an authoritarian way: academia, media, corporate human resources, etc. And so, some argue, muscular state action is needed to rebalance them. Its a compelling narrative. Its also nonsense.

Indiana is choosing, punishing enemies

Protesters march Thursday, May 1, 2025, in a May Day rally at the Indiana Statehouse in opposition of the Trump administration.

Many important sectors have become reflexively censorious and illiberal in ways that are corrosive to civic life. But the state is categorically different, because it alone holds a monopoly on the sanctioned use of coercive violence. It was wrong when the Biden administration leaned on platforms to suppress COVID-19 misinformation, just as its wrong when the Trump administration threatens to punish universities or law firms.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You dont have to dismiss legitimate complaints about ideological capture to say what, until recently, was obvious and agreed upon in this country: Illiberalism is worse when the state does it.

Whether out of information overload, polarization, or recent false alarms, the publics attention has dulled. But we need to snap out of it, because right now, were facing two unmistakable warning signs of advancing authoritarianism.

First is increased weaponization of state power: using the levers of government to punish your ideological opponents. What recently seemed unthinkable is now commonplace.

More Jay Chaudhary: Mike Braun's property tax cut lost the plot

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump 2.0 is punishing law firms that represent the wrong clients. Universities face funding cuts and forced structural overhauls for perceived ideological offenses. Even private companies are threatened if they adopt the wrong stance on the wrong social issue, or state true facts about the impact of policies.

If Trump 1 was a horse in a hospital, then Trump 2 is more like a deranged health care executive demanding that all the hospitals doctors renounce the Hippocratic oath.

This is not limited to Washington. Here in Indiana, this playbook is already in use.

Attorney General Todd Rokita recently publicly posted the name and photo of a middle school teacher whose supposed offense was displaying a small rainbow sign that read All Are Welcome Here. This was part of Rokitas campaign to promote his Parents Bill of Rights, which, apparently, includes state-sanctioned harassment of public school teachers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is the state actively choosing enemies and then using its platform to attempt to punish them.

Second, authoritarianism doesnt take root because of state action alone. It depends on public consent, or at least resignation, which often comes in the form of people trading freedom for a sense of safety.

Benjamin Franklins overquoted line feels relevant: They who can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety.

Liberty is in danger

Protesters march Thursday, May 1, 2025, in a May Day rally at the Indiana Statehouse in opposition of the Trump administration.

In a sprawling, complicated democracy like ours, liberty flows from due process: the idea that those in power must always follow procedure and that even unpopular or marginalized people deserve the protection conferred by that process.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Once that principle is tossed aside, liberty itself is in serious danger. And nowhere is this erosion more visible than in the public conversation around immigration and President Trumps promises of mass deportation.

Democrats were far too late in acknowledging that the issue does have coherent internal logic and broad appeal: A nation must control its borders, and the rule of law must mean something. A lot, maybe most, of the blame lies with the Biden administrations complete neglect of the border issue.

But whatever the situation, the mechanics of mass deportation should terrify any American that cares about liberty or freedom, regardless of any temporary gains in border security.

To deport millions, the government must first find them. That requires a vast new enforcement infrastructure: more surveillance, more detention centers and more federal agents in our neighborhoods. Employers and landlords become informants. Police become immigration officers. Traffic stops turn into document checks. Entire communities live in fear. Horror stories like the ones weve already seen will become routine.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

More Jay Chaudhary: Make Indiana Healthy Again is about cost-cutting, not wellness

This is a complete transformation of the American way of life. You cannot build a show us your papers society and expect it to remain contained to one group. This is a genie that cant be put back in the bottle.

People of good faith can disagree, vociferously, on political and social issues, but this is bigger than politics; this is nothing less than the bedrock of our democracy.

And thats why I got out of my comfort zone and went to the courthouse to stand with strangers and repeat an oath that Ive taken before, but has never quite resonated like it does today.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Jay Chaudhary is the former director of the Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addiction and chair of the Indiana Behavioral Health Commission. He writes the Substack, Favorable Thriving Conditions.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: What is authoritarianism? It's Indiana punishing enemies. | Opinion
The federal Energy Star program is among the most successful government initiatives in modern history. Its signature blue label is now nearly as recognizable as the Nike swoosh or a Coca-Cola can, and appliances bearing it save American consumers some $40 billion annually in energy costs, or about $350 for every taxpayer dollar that goes in.

This week, however, President Donald Trumps administration moved to kill it, The Washington Post first reported. Grist reviewed an Environmental Protection Agency document obtained by the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee that shows the program is slated to be eliminated.

Energy Star has saved American families and businesses more than half a trillion dollars in energy costs, said Democratic Senator Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island, the ranking member of the committee, in a statement to Grist. By eliminating this program, [Trump] will force Americans to buy appliances that cost more to run and waste more energy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Launched in 1992, during George H.W. Bushs presidency, Energy Star sets efficiency specifications for products ranging from dishwashers to entire homes. Those standards are beyond government-mandated minimums, and Energy Stars website says the goal is to provide simple, credible, and unbiased information people can use to make better decisions.

While Energy Star certification is voluntary, most major manufacturers participate. According to the government, around 9 in 10 households recognize the Energy Star label. Depending on the year, as many as 80 percent say the label very much or somewhat influenced their purchases. Overall, consumers have bought more than 300 million appliances with the Energy Star label and the program has cumulatively helped avoid 4 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions.

Energy Star remains one of our most effective bipartisan tools for ensuring energy reliability, affordability, and American competitiveness, said Paula Glover, president of the nonprofit coalition Alliance to Save Energy. She noted the broader economic impact of the program as well, including creating hundreds of thousands of jobs in the manufacturing, retail, real estate, and energy services industries. Shutting it down is a risk to those jobs.

For years, though, Trump has complained about efficiency benchmarks for appliances. Lower-flow showerheads, he said, make showers five times longer. LED light bulbs make him look orange. People are flushing efficient toilets 10 times, 15 times and, with dishwashers, the electric bill is 10 times more than the water. These claims are, by and large, inaccurate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read Next

How your showerhead and fridge got roped into the culture wars

Kate Yoder

Veracity aside, Trumps efforts play into a larger culture war against appliance standards  one that the White House has continued to aggressively wage since his second term began. In February, the Department of Energy announced it was delaying efficiency regulation of appliances ranging from central air conditioners and freezers to washing machines and dryers. In March, it said it was withdrawing four efficiency standards that the Biden administration had proposed and was pushing back the implementation date of others. Last month, Trump issued an executive order titled, in all caps, MAINTAINING ACCEPTABLE WATER PRESSURE IN SHOWERHEADS.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Energy Star rollback would likely be the most visible attack yet on appliance efficiency, and it even has manufacturers worried. Last month, more than 1,000 companies, cities, and groups wrote a letter to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin urging him to support the program.

This would be a very big deal, said the representative of one manufacturer, who asked not to be named given the sensitivity of the potential closure. Energy Star, they explained, helps companies market and move higher volumes of high-efficiency products. Its an odd thing that you would jettison a voluntary public-private partnership that costs a rounding error in EPAs budget and affords consumers billions of dollars of value.

Beyond eliminating staff, the EPAs exact plans and timeline for any Energy Star rollback remain unclear. The agency did not respond directly to questions about the programs future but in an emailed statement told Grist the EPA is delivering organizational improvements to the personnel structure that will directly benefit the American people.

Losing Energy Star could have a range of ripple effects. In addition to making selecting products more confusing for consumers, it could hinder peoples ability to qualify for federal, state, or utility incentives that are tied to the certification. There is, for example, a federal tax incentive for building Energy Star homes. Appliance rebates are also often linked to the designation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

How are those programs now going to know which kinds of appliances they want to give a rebate to or a tax incentive for? asked Glover. States or utilities could conceivably fill that void with their own standards, creating a patchwork of regulation and incentives. Having Energy Star that gives a federal standard makes far more sense. Its certainly easier for consumers to understand what their options are.

These are among the many details that would have to be worked out if the Trump administration proceeds with its plan.

I dont think they expected this kind of pushback, said Steve Nadel, executive director of the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, about the media attention that the latest change has garnered. This is getting a lot of publicity.

The move could also face legal challenges, he said, pointing to the Energy Policy Act of 2005 as one possible roadblock for the administration. It directs the EPA and Department of Energy to, among other things, promote Energy Star-compliant technologies as the preferred technologies in the marketplace and preserve the integrity of the Energy Star label.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Another possibility is that the Department of Energy takes over as Energy Stars primary administrator. But as with other aspects of the presidents ambitious agenda, it could take time to sort out real-world impact.

If Energy Star is ultimately eliminated, Nadel said the labels would eventually go away  as would potentially billions in consumer savings.

But, he added, Nothing is done yet.

This story was originally published by Grist with the headline How Trumps latest rollback could raise your utility bills on May 7, 2025.
We recently published a list of 10 AI Stocks in the News Today. In this article, we are going to take a look at where Bloom Energy Corporation (NYSE:BE) stands against other AI stocks in the news today.

The Trump administration may soon abandon the tiered approach to accessing advanced AI chips and replace it with a global licensing regime with government-to-government agreements. Developing such a structure would likely conform to President Donald Trumps broader trade strategy of making deals with individual countries. The US would then have an easier time leveraging the American-designed chips in negotiations.

There are some voices pushing for elimination of the tiers. I think its still a work in progress.  -Wilbur Ross, who served as Commerce secretary during the first Trump administration.

Changes to the Biden-era rule will potentially limit global access to AI chips and the tiers that previously helped determine how many advanced semiconductors a country could obtain.

READ ALSO: 12 AI Stocks Making Waves Today and 10 AI Stocks in the Spotlight This Week

Provided that the plans to change these rules follow through, these US chips would have the power to steer trade talks. The rule, known as the Framework for Artificial Intelligence Diffusion, was issued by the U.S. Department of Commerce in January. Companies must conform to its restrictions starting on May 15.

Other possible changes being considered in the Trump administration include a lower threshold for an exception to licensing. Currently, orders under the equivalent of about 1,700 of Nvidias H100 chips do not count toward country caps. Rather, the government needs to be notified of the order with no licence necessary.

The administration is considering making the cutoff orders under the equivalent of 500 H100 chips. All of these possible changes by the Trump administration aim to make the rules stronger yet simpler. However, a few experts are of the belief that removing the tiers would make the rule even more complicated.

Many companies and the industry as a whole dont approve of the rule in the first place, stating that limiting access to chips would provoke countries to buy from China instead. Seven Republican senators even sent a letter to Lutnick, the United States Secretary of Commerce, in mid-April to have the rule withdrawn. The letter stated that the restrictions would incentivize buyers, especially in Tier 2 countries, to turn to Chinas unregulated cheap substitutes.

For this article, we selected AI stocks by going through news articles, stock analysis, and press releases. These stocks are also popular among hedge funds. The hedge fund data is as of Q4 2024.
Hollywood actor Jon Voight is most familiar as the star of gruesome horror flick Deliverance, the villain in Mission: Impossible, and as Angelina Jolies father.

But the veteran stars new role threatens to have a much greater global impact than any of his turns on the silver screen.

Thats because in an unlikely twist, the actor has been asked by the US president to work out how to save Hollywoods ailing film industry  and in doing so appears to have moved the White House on to a new front in its trade war against services imports which threatens to imperil Britain.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Services exports, which include films, are far more important for Britains economy than the sale of tangible, manufactured products  which Trump has already targeted with his liberation day tariffs.

The UK sent 59.3bn of tangible goods such as cars, medicines and aircraft across the Atlantic last year. But that was dwarfed by the 137bn of services sold into America, led by business services such as consultancy, as well as finance, pensions, insurance, telecoms and travel.

Just the notion of tariffs being extended to services has the potential to cause more economic damage simply through the uncertainty it generates, said Chris Williamson, chief business economist at S&P Global.

The UKs services prowess may become a lightning rod for Trumps ongoing campaign against trade imbalances. While imports and exports of goods between Britain and the US are relatively balanced, the situation is very different for services.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

British sales to the US exceed trade in the other direction by a margin of 75.8bn  a gap which risks incurring Trumps wrath if he starts to view the one-sided balance of trade as a problem.

Any threat to those sales would be extremely serious, especially for Britains financial services and legal profession which helps drive the economy.

Miles Celic, chief executive of industry group TheCityUK, said: The relationship between the UK and the US in financial services and investment is the closest of its kind anywhere in the world  we are each others largest investors.

British firms have huge footprints in the US in financial services ... American financial services and professional services firms are a huge engine of growth for financial services here in the UK.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The nature of trade in services is that tariffs are less of an issue. It is not completely irrelevant, because tariffs have an impact on clients for financial services firms.

But the concern for financial and other forms of services is always around regulatory barriers  the role of regulation in the movement of people and capital, and minimising friction between each others markets.

Traditionally, tariffs have only been charged on goods: they need to be brought into a country via a port of entry, which makes them easy places for the authorities to police movements and levy taxes.

But services are rather more complicated.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the case of a film  or a wider range of other services like an architects blueprints, an insurance contract or a workplace training session  the transfer across borders can happen via an upload to a website or an attachment to an email, or even a phone conversation.

None of those imports into the US are easily observable by the taxman.

Ingo Borchert, professor of economics at the University of Sussex Business School and deputy director of the UK Trade Policy Observatory, says taxing a cross-border digital transfer would pose challenges.

It is pretty hard to see how that would even be feasible  we dont get to observe this, he says.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A services transaction is, for tax purposes, a business transaction, and is subject to VAT. So it is perhaps not inconceivable to imagine that the US might require its companies to reveal whether purchases have been made from abroad or not.

When it comes to a cinema, a film made abroad could incur a surcharge. But the source of a product made with input from around the world is not always obvious.

To what extent that entails incentives for truthful reporting, obviously I would not know, says Borchert. But that is the only way to do it  you do not see the service travelling across the border.

Alternatively, visas could be made more expensive for business travellers visiting the US to work, for example, as a consultant for an American business.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It would be possible to impose stricter conditions on foreign businesses setting up operations in the US  though that would not match Trumps goal to drag more businesses and jobs into America.

Yet the Trump administration is far from the first to consider limits on services trade. Foreign companies face a host of difficulties operating in countries including China, for instance, while the EU has powers to retaliate with its own restrictions on services.

Allie Renison, from SEC Newgate, explains that any US tariffs or limits on services trade could lead to a new tit-for-tat escalation.

The EU has its Anti-Coercion Instrument, the nuclear option for extending retaliatory measures to services. So far the EU has held off doing that, but I think if the US really went ahead with this, the EU would probably be minded to drop that into retaliation, she says.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That could cover anything from cutting American businesses out of public sector contracts, to restricting licences to operate in the EU or the mutual recognition of qualifications which allows Americans to work in regulated industries on the Continent. It could also include taxing royalty payments earned by US intellectual property in Europe.

As things stand, services exports are already in trouble anyway.

New export orders fell last month more steeply than at any point since 2021, according to S&P Globals PMI survey of services businesses.

While that partly reflects a slump in demand as the trade war slows the global economy, it also includes services which are embedded in goods  the insurance and trade finance which is bought as products are shipped, or the servicing contracts which go alongside the sales of jet engines.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A lot of services are closely correlated with goods production and exports  logistics, packaging. Those will struggle. But there is a broader downturn in global business and consumer confidence, so companies are pulling back on investment and expansion plans, says Williamson at S&P.

Every building project cancelled means less work for consultants, architects and accountants, he says, while putting other plans on hold means less need for finance, even without direct tariffs on services trade.

But the threat alone has echoes of an old-fashioned Hollywood disaster movie.

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.
President Donald Trump reportedly asked several foreign governments if they would accept U.S. deportees who are not their citizensincluding war-torn Ukraine.

Documents obtained by The Washington Post revealed that the Trump administration asked Kyiv in late January to take in third-country nationals deported by the U.S., all while Ukraine was fending off Russias attacks.

A Ukrainian diplomat told American counterparts that while Ukraine had a solid track record of accepting the return of its citizens when removed by the United States, it was dealing with wartime exigencies, the Post reported Tuesday.

President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance dressed down Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in a White House screaming match in February over Russia's war on Ukraine. / Brian Snyder / Brian Snyder/REUTERS

Data from the United Nations showed that at least 139 civilians were killed and over 700 were injured in Ukraine in January, mostly from Russian short-range drone attacks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The proposal to Ukraine, relayed by a senior U.S. diplomat, was reportedly one of many that the Trump administration sent to multiple countries around the same time. Former U.S. officials told the Post that the proposal was unusual and outside of routine diplomatic correspondence.

A Ukrainian diplomat reportedly told the U.S. Embassy that they would respond once they formulated their position, but there is no indication that Kyiv seriously weighed the proposal.

Two Ukrainian officials told the Post that the proposal never reached the highest level of government. One official said he was unaware of any political demands made by the Trump administration related to accepting deportees.

Other countries, including El Salvador, Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, and Rwanda, have agreed to take in U.S. deportees who are not their citizens.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The State Department said in a statement to the newspaper that the ongoing engagement with foreign governments was vital to deterring illegal and mass migration and securing our borders.

The Daily Beast has reached out to the Department of Homeland Security for comment.

On the campaign trail, Trump touted that he could secure a Russia-Ukraine peace deal in his first 24 hours back in office.

I will get it settled before I even become president, Trump said in September. I know [Ukrainian President Volodymyr] Zelensky very well, and I know [Russian President Vladimir] Putin very well. I have a good relationship, and they respect your president, OK, they respect me. They dont respect Biden.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In an April interview with Time magazine to mark his first 100 days, however, Trump said he had only said that figuratively.

I said that as an exaggeration, because to make a point, and you know, it gets, of course, by the fake news, he said. Obviously, people know that when I said that, it was said in jest, but it was also said that it will be ended.

Trump had a meltdown at Zelensky last month after the Ukrainian president rejected a proposed peace deal that involved recognizing Crimea as Russian territory.
President Donald Trump said Wednesday hes considering trying to change the name of the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Arabia or the Arabian Gulf.

Trump said hes going to make a final decision on the issue after a briefing by advisers and before leaving on a three-day trip to the Middle East next week.

Theyre going to ask me about that when I get there and Ill have to make a decision, Trump told reporters at an unrelated White House event.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Associated Press reported that Trump would announce the U.S. is making the change, citing two U.S. officials familiar with the matter.

Any effort to rename the body of water would likely deeply anger Iran, which was historically called Persia, and perhaps other Middle Eastern states as well.

It could also throw a monkey wrench into sensitive talks between the U.S. and Tehran over its nuclear program.

Politically motivated attempts to alter the historically established name of the Persian Gulf are indicative of hostile intent toward Iran and its people, and are firmly condemned, Irans Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted on social media. It will only bring the wrath of all Iranians from all walks of life and political persuasion in Iran, the U.S. and across the world.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Persian Gulf has been widely known by that name since the 16th century, although usage of Gulf of Arabia and Arabian Gulf is common in many countries in the Middle East. The U.S. military for years has unilaterally referred to the Persian Gulf as the Arabian Gulf.

Trump can change the name that the U.S. uses to refer to the gulf, which separates Iran from Saudi Arabia and other state, but he cant dictate what the rest of the world calls it.

The International Hydrographic Organization is mandated with ensuring all the worlds seas, oceans and navigable waters are surveyed and charted uniformly

The move comes as Trump seeks to bolster ties with Saudi Arabia and other Arab states in the Gulf region, which are Sunni Muslim nations and strong historic rivals to Shia Muslim Iran.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump plans to leave Monday on the trip to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. He is reportedly considering adding a stop in Israel.

The decision comes months after Trump proclaimed that the U.S. would refer to the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. He has sought to force news outlets to also use his preferred name and Republicans in Congress are seeking to pass a law enforcing that switch.

_____
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Four Missourians have been nominated by President Donald Trump to serve as federal judges in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri.

In what is considered to be a historic first for the president, Trump has selected three Missouri attorneys, and a Missouri Court of Appeals judge to fill federal court vacancies.

What to know about REAL IDs ahead of Wednesdays deadline

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The four nominees include:

Joshua Divine  Solicitor General of the State of Missouri.

Maria Lanahan  Principal Deputy Solicitor General of the State of Missouri.

Cristian Stevens  Judge for the Missouri Court of Appeals  Eastern District.

Zachary Bluestone  Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Eastern District of Missouri.

Divine and Lanahan from Attorney General Andrew Baileys Office, were both highlighted as being two of the finest legal minds in America.

Their work has set the gold standard for legal excellence, and their nominations are a testament to the powerhouse team we have built in Missouri, Bailey added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

White House requests $46.5 billion for border wall construction

All four nominees were also praised by Missouri Senator Eric Schmitt in a news release on Tuesday.

President Trumps historic transformation of our federal judiciary was among the greatest successes of his first term, and with these well qualified, proven nominees President Trump is continuing that legacy, Schmitt said.

U.S. Senator Josh Hawley also commended the presidents nominee choices, including Divine, who served as Hawleys former chief counsel.

Scientific societies say theyll step up after Trump puts key climate report in doubt

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We need judges that are committed to the rule of law and upholding the Constitution, and Im ecstatic to see President Trump nominate these outstanding individuals to the federal bench, Hawley added.

The nominees are expected to undergo a full confirmation process within the Senate before being able to take their respective seats.

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.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Tuesday raided a restaurant in Washington, D.C., owned by the husband of CBS News anchor Norah ODonnell.

Early Tuesday morning, immigration officers dressed in Homeland Security uniforms busted into the American fare restaurant Chef Geoffs and demanded to see employees work authorization, Fox5 reported. No one was taken into custody, marking yet another pointless, fearmongering raid from ICE.

ODonnell is a senior correspondent for CBS News and a contributing correspondent for the networks 60 Minutes, which Trump has targeted ever since the network did an interview with Kamala Harris before the 2024 election. Its unclear whether ICE knew that ODonnells husband, Geoff Tracy, is the owner of Chef Geoffs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

ICE also raided at least seven other restaurants in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, including Millies, Pupatella, and Chang Chang, to demand I-9 forms, The Washingtonian reported.

We were under the impression that they were focusing on trying to find criminals, Bo Blair, the owner of Millies, told The Washingtonian. And this is just a whole new level of harassment to our hardworking, law-abiding employees. The ICE agents informed staff at Millies that they will return on Monday to collect the remainder of the I-9 forms verifying employees identity and work authorization.

According to data from the Independent Restaurant Coalition, immigrants make up 22 percent of all U.S. workers in food services. Restaurant workers have long been bracing for ICE raids, and it looks like the GOPs crackdown on yet another industry that relies heavily on immigrant labor is in full force.
President Donald Trump on Wednesday offered lukewarm support for Ed Martin, his embattled pick for U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, whose nomination has been imperiled by opposition from at least one Republican senator.

Thats really up to the senators; if they feel that way, they have to vote the way they vote, Trump told reporters at the Oval Office when asked about Martin. They have to follow their heart and they have to follow their mind.

North Carolina Sen. Thom Tillis said on Tuesday that he had informed the White House of his opposition to Martins nomination.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I met with Mr. Martin, Tillis told reporters Tuesday. He seems like a good man. Most of my concern is related to January 6.

Martin has been criticized for his views on the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. The longtime conservative activist, who marched to the Capitol before the attacks but did not enter the complex, represented several Jan. 6 defendants and helped run the Patriot Freedom Project, which advocated for them.

He also vocally pushed Trumps claim that the 2020 election was stolen.

Martin previously compared the plight of the Jan. 6 defendants to Japanese internment during World War II. And hes faced criticism for his friendship with Timothy Hale-Cusanelli, an alleged Nazi sympathizer. And Martin, as interim D.C. U.S. attorney, also faced criticism for firing more than two dozen prosecutors who worked on Jan. 6 cases.



Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But Trump stood by Martin on Wednesday, though without full-throated support.

Well its disappointing because you know, I know Eddy, Trump said. Hes very talented. Crime is down in Washington, D.C., street crime, violent crime, by 25 percent. And people have seen, they've noticed a big difference.
President Donald Trump has finally named a point person on Chinese trade negotiations, something Beijing has wanted for weeks, as the White House seeks an off-ramp in its trade war with the worlds second-largest economy.

Now, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is staring down a formidable challenge.

Hours after both U.S. and Chinese officials announced Bessent and Chinese trade negotiators would meet in Switzerland this weekend, each country was arguing it was the other that had requested the meeting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The countries have been locked in a diplomatic standoff for more than a month, each daring the other to come to the negotiating table first as their economies suffer. Chinas patient approach  waiting for the U.S. to make the first move while weathering 145 percent tariffs on its U.S. exports  is a marked contrast with the dozens of other countries that have rushed to seek deals with the U.S., unworried about projecting weakness.

Trump has met a more recalcitrant rival in Chinese leader Xi Jinping, with the U.S. as dependent on China for imports as China is for the U.S. to buy its exports. Both are trying to project strength heading into the talks amid challenging political and economic climates at home. In the U.S., nearly-empty ports have come as an omen of higher prices and further economic pain for already weary American consumers.

Toymakers and other retailers have warned of higher prices and empty shelves ahead of Christmas, given the backups that have already begun with supply chains.

If there isn't sort of a go-ahead signal on what that U.S.-China conversation is going to look like  matched with some upfront, substantial relaxation of the existing tariff barrier  you're going to start to see a lot of other problems that occur, existential problems: product extinctions, empty shelves, said Stephen Lamar, president and CEO of the American Apparel and Footwear Association.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump was unusually circumspect in his remarks on China on Wednesday, even when prodded by a reporter about Beijings assertion that it was the U.S. that requested the talks. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian explicitly said Wednesday that the meeting was requested by the U.S. side.

They said we initiated? Trump said during China ambassador David Purdues swearing-in ceremony in the Oval Office. Well, I think they ought to go back and study their files.

Trumps less-than-full-throated response reflects the tremendous pressure he is under to show even the smallest progress with the Chinese and reverse plunging consumer sentiment . Bessent has said that no trade deal will come out of the Switzerland confab, but the meeting could help de-escalate tensions between the two countries and pave a path toward more formal negotiations to lower the sky-high tariffs and other trade barriers.

The first thing is to come to a mutual agreement of how do we start to build off ramps from the complicated relationship that were in right now when it comes to trade, said an administration official, granted anonymity to discuss internal strategy. This is the initial triage of the extensive invasive surgery that is going to need to be taking place.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But youve got to have an initial triage before you can treat the patient, the official added.

Still, Trump threw a potential wrench in negotiations, giving reporters an explicit no when asked whether he would pull back the 145 percent tariffs on Chinese goods to get them to the negotiating table. The president had previously voiced openness to the idea, under the condition China made a similar concession.

The Switzerland talks come as a broad swath of industries  including truckers, manufacturers and retailers  brace for a difficult summer, with imports from the worlds second largest economy now effectively halted.

Across the West Coast, ports are seeing a dip in shipments to lows not seen since the Covid-19 pandemic, which is about to ripple through the economy. While many companies raced to get shipments in ahead of the tariffs, companies like Mattel and Ford have already started to announce plans to raise prices .

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Small businesses are particularly vulnerable. Retailers are already planning for their Back to School season in August. With shipments effectively on hold until there is some form of de-escalation between the U.S. and China, businesses arent certain whether they will be able to provide inventory.

Trumps selection of Bessent, who is well-regarded by Wall Street and widely perceived as savvy and sober on trade, to lead U.S. negotiations with China telegraphs the seriousness with which the administration is taking easing trade tensions with China.

That was implied in Tuesdays announcement that the Treasury secretary, who has been tasked with helming other trade negotiations in Asia as part of an ever-expanding portfolio, will meet with Chinese officials in Switzerland this weekend. But the administration official confirmed Wednesday morning that Trump has designated Bessent to lead U.S. talks with China, portraying it as a sign of trust from the president that he would prioritize the America agenda and the American worker.

The choice to tap Bessent could also put Trumps U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, who is also traveling to Switzerland to participate in the meetings with the Chinese, into a subordinate role. As USTR, Greer would typically have primary responsibility over negotiations for new trade deals, but the Trump administration has consistently flipped that dynamic on its head.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Greer has a record of supporting more tough-on-China and protectionist trade policies. His time as chief of staff to Trump's first term USTR Robert Lighthizer could also unnerve Chinese officials, who viewed Lighthizer as an avatar for the anti-China consensus in Washington that amplified the rivalry between the two countries.

Chinas notice of the meeting only mentions Bessent, whom they call a lead person in talks, according to a statement from Beijings ministry of foreign affairs, which also said He Lifeng, the vice premier of China, will lead the Chinese side.

A spokesperson for USTR directed POLITICO to the White House when asked for comment.

A White House official, granted anonymity to discuss the structure of the trade team, said Greer would be integral in the process of negotiating with the Chinese, and denied that Bessent being tapped for the leadership role was a sign that Trumps USTR was being sidelined or slighted.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The selection of Bessent also answers Beijings longstanding question about who is serving as the presidents proxy on trade. It is unlikely the Chinese government would have taken the Switzerland meeting had Bessent not been officially given that role by the president.

Still, theres skepticism in China about the likelihood the meeting will produce tangible outcomes and concern about how slowly the two sides are moving.

This first single step has taken us two months, said Cameron Johnson, senior partner at Shanghai-based supply-chain consultancy Tidalwave Solutions. So if this is how long each step is going to take, the trade war is going to destroy our economies.

Mary Lovely, senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, also voiced uncertainty about whether the appointment of Bessent would beget any movement on the U.S.-Chinese impasse.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The Chinese don't really know if Bessent can bring home the bacon for them, Lovely said. The President got into this 145 percent tariff on China in a kind of a snit  how can Beijing know that Bessent can commit him to not doing that again once a deal is struck?"

China would like a deal with the U.S., but they're pissed, Lovely said. They feel the administration's approach has been derogatory, disrespectful and discriminatory."

Beijing is not immune to political pressure. But, as an authoritarian government, it is likely to have more success in urging its citizens to withstand temporary economic pain than the U.S. would  meaning it can better afford to play the waiting game.

One former Trump administration official, who was granted anonymity to speak candidly, said they couldnt foresee a scenario under which Xi and Trump could strike a deal right now, given Chinas efforts to move into non-U.S. markets.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump is looking to get a deal with Xi that benefits America, and Xi wants a deal that benefits the Chinese Communist Party, the official said, noting those two objectives may not converge.

The official added that Xi needs to project power in his own country and that making a deal with the U.S. would be embarrassing domestically, unless the deal emboldens Chinas posture globally.
President Donald Trumps nominee to head the powerful U.S. Attorneys Office in Washington, D.C. has hit a roadblock in the Senate after a key Republican said he would not vote in favor of the controversial nominee.

The president has nominated Ed Martin, a conservative lawyer who supported Trumps Stop the Steal movement in 2020, advocated for lesser sentencing for January 6 defendants, appeared on Russian state media networks multiple times and used social media to threaten critics of Elon Musk.

Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina told reporters on Tuesday that he informed the White House he would not support Martins nomination after meeting with the conservative lawyer on Monday evening.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Most of my concerns are related to Jan. 6, Tillis said.

Ed Martin supported Donald Trumps efforts to overturn the 2020 election result (Getty Images)

Since becoming interim head of the U.S. Attorneys Office, Martin has fired or demoted federal prosecutors who worked on cases against January 6 rioters and opened investigations into the decisions that led to bringing charges against defendants.

Tillis said he understood Martins perspective that some January 6 defendants were overly prosecuted, but he did not believe most of them should have received a pardon, which Trump bestowed on them after taking office.

"If Mr. Martin were being put forth as a U.S. attorney for any district except the district where Jan. 6 happened, the protest happened, Id probably support him, but not in this district, Tillis said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Without Tilliss vote, the Senate Judiciary Committee would be deadlocked in an 1111 vote, assuming Democrats would vote against Martin.

Senator Thom Tillis said his objections related to January 6. Martin has fired or demoted federal prosecutors who worked on cases against pro-Trump rioters (Getty Images)

Martins nomination was not included on the committees schedule this week. When asked why, Chairman and Senator Chuck Grassley said, "I want to put people on the agenda that I can help the president be successful in his nominees.

Its unclear if Trump will pull Martins nomination.

A spokesperson for the White House told the New York Times, Ed Martin is a fantastic U.S. attorney for D.C. and will continue to implement the presidents law-and-order agenda in Washington. He is the right man for the job and we look forward to his confirmation.

Martin has also appeared on Russian state television (US Attorney's Office, District of Columbia)

Martins nomination has caused a stir in Washington.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

More than 100 former federal prosecutors who worked in the U.S. Attorneys Office for D.C. signed a letter expressing concerns over Martin, who they believe is unworthy of the position, incapable of the task, and an affront to the singular pursuit of justice.

While some have complained that Martin may have a conflict of interest in Jan 6 cases, the Office of Disciplinary Counsel declined to investigate as, while saying it was unseemly for Martin to appear for the DoJ in the matter because there is no rule prohibiting lawyers from giving the appearance of impropriety.
President Donald Trump on Tuesday nominated senior Veterans Affairs advisor Cheryl Mason to serve as the top VA watchdog, a move that drew criticism from congressional Democrats because of her ties to the administration.

Mason was one of four inspector general nominations submitted by the White House this week. All of those posts  and about a dozen more  have been vacant since late January, when Trump dismissed the independent investigators from their roles without explanation.

Mike Missal, who had served in the VA Inspector General role since April 2016, has joined seven other former officials in a lawsuit challenging those firings. That case is still unresolved.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mason was part of the Board of Veterans Appeals from 2017 to 2022, becoming the first woman ever to serve as chair of the judicial panel. The board provides a second chance for veterans seeking disability benefits to challenge Department of Veterans Affairs decisions.

She is the wife and daughter of military veterans and has been a public advocate for military spouse employment opportunities in the past.

VA, DOD oversight questioned after Trump inspector general firings

Earlier this year, Trump appointed Mason as a senior advisor to the VA secretary. Her shift from administration insider to department watchdog elicited concerns about her ability to serve as an independent voice on department operations and decisions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A Trump political acolyte like Cheryl Mason is exactly the wrong choice to be the VA Inspector General, a role requiring nonpartisan, independent oversight, Senate Veterans Affairs Committee ranking member Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., said in a statement responding to Tuesdays nomination.

Veterans deserve an inspector general who will conduct investigations free of interference and collusion from [VA Secretary Doug] Collins and the Trump administration. Otherwise, we will be putting veterans at even greater risk of corruption and abuse of power.

Critics noted that Mason has been involved in department efforts to trim the size of the VA workforce, which has prompted objections from Democratic lawmakers and veterans advocates.

Hours before the nomination, in testimony before the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee on Tuesday, Collins hinted that Trump would be moving soon to fill the vacant watchdog post.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

From our perspective, we welcome the oversight to make sure that were meeting the metrics that we need to do to take care of veterans, he said.

Committee Chairman Jerry Moran, R-Kan., said filling the post is a high priority for the panel. No timeline has been announced for a confirmation hearing for Mason.
BorgWarner has announced two new contracts, reinforcing its presence in China's dual-clutch transmission (DCT) market.

The company has secured a seven-year extension for its DCT clutch assembly with a German automotive manufacturer operating in China.

This follows more than ten years of collaboration between the two companies.

The components, produced at BorgWarners facility in Tianjin, are used in vehicles with internal combustion engines and mild hybrid systems.

The design offers improved performance through reduced rotational inertia and lower friction losses, contributing to greater transmission efficiency and smoother operation.

BorgWarner vice president and Drivetrain and Morse Systems president and general manager Isabelle McKenzie said: Our success in securing new projects in the Chinese market underscores BorgWarner's commitment to delivering innovative solutions in the region. We are dedicated to helping our customers grow their business in China and succeed in international markets.

In addition to the contract extension, BorgWarner has entered into a new supply agreement with a Chinese transmission manufacturer.

Under the deal, BorgWarner will provide DCT clutch modules for a Chinese automaker's SUVs and sedans destined for domestic and export markets.

Production will take place at the companys Taicang facility, with mass production expected to begin by the end of 2025.

The modules are designed to meet varied driving conditions and are noted for their compact design, thermal durability, and cost efficiency.

Earlier this year, in February, BorgWarner also announced extended supply contracts with a major North American automaker for wastegate turbochargers.

BorgWarner vice-president and turbos and thermal technologies president and general manager Volker Weng said: BorgWarner has a longstanding and trusted relationship with this OEM, having supplied them with our turbochargers for more than 10 years.

These platform extensions are a testament to the strong collaboration between our engineering teams and we look forward to continuing our work together through the rest of this decade and beyond.

"BorgWarner expands dual-clutch programmes in China" was originally created and published by Just Auto, a GlobalData owned brand.




WASHINGTON (AP)  President Donald Trump plans to announce while on his trip to Saudi Arabia next week that the United States will now refer to the Persian Gulf as the Arabian Gulf or the Gulf of Arabia, according to two U.S. officials.

Arab nations have pushed for a change to the geographic name of the body of water off the southern coast of Iran, while Iran has maintained its historic ties to the gulf.

The two U.S. officials spoke with The Associated Press on Tuesday on condition of anonymity to discuss the matter. The White House and National Security Council did not immediately respond to messages seeking comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Persian Gulf has been widely known by that name since the 16th century, although usage of Gulf of Arabia and Arabian Gulf is dominant in many countries in the Middle East. The government of Iran  formerly Persia  threatened to sue Google in 2012 over the companys decision not to label the body of water at all on its maps.

On Google Maps in the U.S., the body of water appears as Persian Gulf (Arabian Gulf). Apple Maps only says the Persian Gulf.

The U.S. military for years has unilaterally referred to the Persian Gulf as the Arabian Gulf in statements and images it releases.

The name of the body of water has become an emotive issue for Iranians who embrace their countrys long history as the Persian Empire. A spat developed in 2017 during Trumps first term when he used the name Arabian Gulf for the waterway. Irans president at the time, Hassan Rouhani, suggested Trump needed to study geography.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Everyone knew Trumps friendship was for sale to the highest bidder. We now know that his geography is, too, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif wrote online at the time.

On Wednesday, Iran's current foreign minister also weighed in, saying that names of Mideast waterways do not imply ownership by any particular nation, but rather reflects a shared respect for the collective heritage of humanity.

Politically motivated attempts to alter the historically established name of the Persian Gulf are indicative of hostile intent toward Iran and its people, and are firmly condemned, Abbas Araghchi wrote on the social platform X.

"Any short-sighted step in this connection will have no validity or legal or geographical effect, it will only bring the wrath of all Iranians from all walks of life and political persuasion in Iran, the U.S. and across the world."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump can change the name for official U.S. purposes, but he cant dictate what the rest of the world calls it.

The International Hydrographic Organization  of which the United States is a member  works to ensure all the worlds seas, oceans and navigable waters are surveyed and charted uniformly, and also names some of them. There are instances where countries refer to the same body of water or landmark by different names in their own documentation.

In addition to Saudi Arabia, Trump is also set to visit Doha, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, which also lie on the body of water. Originally planned as Trumps first trip overseas since he took office on Jan. 20, it comes as Trump has tried to draw closer to the Gulf countries as he seeks their financial investment in the U.S. and support in regional conflicts, including resolving the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza and limiting Irans advancing nuclear program.

The U.S. president also has significant financial ties to the countries through his personal businesses, over which he has retained ownership from the Oval Office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The move comes several months after Trump said the U.S. would refer to the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America.

The Associated Press sued the Trump administration earlier this year after the White House barred its journalists from covering most events because of the organizations decision not to follow the presidents executive order to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America within the United States.

U.S. District Judge Trevor N. McFadden, an appointee of President Donald Trump, ruled last month that the First Amendment protects the AP from government retaliation over its word choice and ordered the outlets access to be reinstated.

___

Associated Press writers Zeke Miller in Washington, Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Meg Kinnard in Chapin, South Carolina, contributed to this report.
The Trump administration is planning to use a military plane to deport immigrants to Libya in a cruel, arbitrary escalation of its mass deportation campaign. The deportations could happen as soon as Wednesday, and the nationality of the immigrants remains unclear.

The situation in Libya is so unstable that the State Department dissuades its citizens from traveling there due to crime, terrorism, unexploded land mines, civil unrest, kidnapping and armed conflict.

The detention centers where these migrants would be held are even worse. A 2021 Amnesty International investigation found horrific violations in the prisons there, calling them a total hellscape. The organizations Middle East deputy director, Diana Eltahaway, noted that prisoners are immediately funnelled into arbitrary detention and systematically subjected to torture, sexual violence, forced labour and other exploitation with total impunity. The entire network of Libyan migration detention centres is rotten to its core and must be dismantled.

This comes months after the administration pulled a similar move by sending Venezuelan immigrants to the infamous CECOT prison in El Salvadoran extrajudicial move that is still being debated by the court.
By Nate Raymond

(Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that he was nominating four Missouri lawyers with experience as prosecutors or working under the state's Republican attorney general to serve as federal trial court judges in the state.

The new nominees brought the total number of judicial nominations made by Trump in his second term to five, after the Republican president on Thursday announced his first pick to serve as life-tenured federal judge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump is expected to have the chance to make more than 100 judicial nominations over the next four years, adding to the conservative stamp he made on the judiciary with 234 appointments during his first term.

The latest nominees included two members of Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey's legal team, Joshua Divine, the state's solicitor general, and Maria Lanahan, who serves as principal deputy solicitor general.

Bailey in a statement called Divine the architect of the state's successful challenge to a plan by former Democratic President Joe Biden's administration to forgive student loans and said he spearheaded the defense of the state's restrictions on treatments for minors diagnosed with gender dysphoria.

"Whether it was dismantling the Biden administrations unlawful student loan bailout or shutting down radical attempts to harm Missouri children, Josh brought precision, grit, and leadership every step of the way," Bailey said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump in a social media post said that as a former clerk to conservative U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, Divine "knows what is required to protect the Rule of Law and Constitutional Rights for the Great People of Missouri."

If confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Divine and his fellow nominees would serve as judges on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri.

The other nominees include two current and former federal prosecutors, Zachary Bluestone, who serves in the U.S. Attorney's Office in St. Louis, and Judge Cristian Stevens, who serves on the Missouri Court of Appeals.

(Reporting by Jasper Ward; Editing by Ryan Patrick Jones and Stephen Coates)
President Donald Trump speaks during an executive order signing in the Oval Office on Feb. 11, 2025. Trump signed two immigration-related orders on Monday in an event closed to press photographers. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

The White House has reversed course on a proposal to eliminate funding for Head Start, a long-standing preschool program that serves low-income families. Nearly 8,000 children in West Virginia rely on the programs free services.

Sen. Shelley Moore Capitos office confirmed on Monday that Pres. Donald Trumps recent budget proposal, which was sent to Congress last week, did not propose cutting funding for Head Start after several news outlets confirmed that it was on the chopping block.

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) speaks during a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee hearing on the fiscal year 2023 budget for the FBI at the U.S. Capitol on May 25, 2022 in Washington, DC. (Ting Shen | Getty Images)

Head Start provides early education, wraparound services, healthy meals and more to children. The program employs nearly 3,000 workers in West Virginia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The [West Virginia Head Start Association] is relieved to find out that the proposed elimination of Head Start did not come out with the Presidents skinny budget and remain hopeful when the final budget is released that it remains the same, said Lori Milam, executive director of the West Virginia Head Start Association. We are very thankful for the Head Start parents, past and present, staff, and community for signing on to the letters to Save Head Start and making calls to our senators and representatives.

Capito, R-W.Va., previously said she was working with federal health officials to ensure funding for Head Start.

Throughout my time as a United States Senator, I have supported many efforts to promote programs that create a strong foundation for our children, such as Head Start. These important programs provide nutrition, health, education and social services to children and families in West Virginia, and across the nation, Capito said in a statement to West Virginia Watch.

The presidents budget is a wishlist. Congress decides how to appropriate federal funds.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Trump administration has already slashed Head Start staff, closed half the programs regional offices and delayed funding as part of ongoing efforts to reduce government spending.

Several states and advocacy groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union, are suing the Trump administration over the Head Start changes. The lawsuit alleges that the actions already taken against the program, including shuttering its regional offices, required congressional approval.

Ming-Qi Chu, deputy director for the Womens Rights Project at the ACLU, said that Trumps proposed Head Start funding is an encouraging development but that the lawsuit will continue because of his changes to the program. She noted delays in grant funding, which have affected West Virginias funding levels. Additionally, Trumps ban on diversity, equity and inclusion has impacted Head Starts ability to hire and retain child care staff.

[The lawsuit] challenges the steps that the administration has already taken to interfere with

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Head Start providers ability to serve families now, she said. [Health and Human Services] is still interfering with their ability to serve families, stay open and provide certainty to the staff in the future.

Trumps budget blueprint for the next year includes plans to slash more than $160 billion in federal spending. Head Starts funding amount could still be impacted.

Other child care programs are still on the chopping block in Trumps budget proposal, USA Today reported, including a proposal to cut $75 million in grants for colleges to support child-care services that help low-income parents enrolled in colleges.
President Donald Trump said the U.S. would cease its airstrikes on the Houthis in Yemen effective immediately after the Iran-supported group said they would stop attacking ships in the Red Sea.

The Houthis have announced, to us at least, that they dont want to fight anymore. They just dont want to fight, said President Trump during an Oval Office meeting with newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. And we will honor that. And we will stop the bombings. They have capitulatedwe will take their word that they will not be blowing up ships anymore, and thats the purpose of what we were doing.

More from Sourcing Journal

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Following Trumps commentary, Omans foreign minister Badr Albusaidi said the country had mediated a truce between the Houthis and the U.S. Neither side would target the other, including U.S. vessels in the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

However, it remains unclear if the Houthis are exclusively referring to American-flagged commercial or military ships as part of the truce. Officials for the group do not explicitly say they will stop attacking all commercial vessels in the Red Sea.

In a post on X made over an hour after Trumps claims, Houthi senior political official Mohammed al-Bukhaiti appeared to refute parts of Trumps statement.

Our military operations in support of Gaza will not cease until the aggression against Gaza stops and the blockade on its residents is lifted, allowing the entry of food, medicine, and fuel, al-Bukhaiti said. As for our attacks on the U.S., they fall within the context of the right to self-defense. If it halts its attacks on us, we will halt our attacks on it. This position also applies to Britain.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Houthis began their onslaught on shipping lanes after the Israel-Hamas war began, with the group saying it was in support of Palestinians.

According to al-Bukhaiti, the only way the Houthis will halt their military operations in the Red Sea is if the U.S. pressures Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to respect the terms of the ceasefire agreement.

U.S. officials have not immediately confirmed Trumps assertion that the airstrikes will stop.

A senior Israeli official told Axios the U.S. didnt notify Israel in advance of Trumps announcement of a Houthi truce.

The attacks on commercial ships sailing the Red Sea have persisted since November 2023, and have essentially forced most container shipping firms to divert their ships away from the region for the past 18 months. Ocean carriers have since elected to sail around Africas Cape of Good Hope, which adds one-to-two weeks of transit time to complete a voyage.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

With the Houthi threat lingering, container shipping giants like Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd have avoided the Red Sea route and the Suez Canal. The companies have publicly stated that they will not return to the Red Sea until it is safe to do so, and until security through the passage is guaranteed.

The Houthis have not directly targeted container ships throughout 2025, but the ongoing threat they have posed to military ships has kept the industry at a distance. On top of that, war-risk insurance premiums remain elevated, which insure ocean carriers against losses sustained in the event of an attack on a vessel,

The volume of ships arriving in the Gulf of Aden, which connects to the Red Sea via the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, was 70 percent lower than 2023 levels as of April 2025, according to Clarksons Research.

For more than 50 days, the U.S. has conducted a series of airstrikes in Yemen known as Operation Rough Rider, with the Pentagon claiming to hit more than 1,000 Houthi targets. The U.S. has targeted Houthi infrastructure in an attempt to deter the militant group.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The White House has previously stated that the operation would continue until freedom of navigation in the Red Sea was restored.

This was always a freedom of navigation issue, said Secretary of State Marco Rubio during Trumps Oval Office interview. You had a band of individuals with advanced weaponry that were threatening global shipping, and the job was to get that to stop, and if its going to stop, then we can stop.

Tensions between Yemen and Israel have ramped up in recent weeks as the future of the war-torn Gaza Strip remains uncertain.

Late Monday, Israel had launched a barrage of air attacks on Yemens Port of Hodeidah and a nearby cement factory, a day after the Houthis fired a ballistic missile that struck close to Tel Avivs Ben Gurion International Airport.

Israels offensive took an even larger turn on Tuesday, with forces striking Sanaa International Airport in Yemen. The Israeli Defense Forces said the strikes fully disabled the airport. The air attack killed three people and wounded 35 others, according to Houthi-affiliated Al Masirah TV.
President Donald Trump is reportedly planning to announce that the United States will begin referring to the Persian Gulf as the Arabian Gulf or Gulf of Arabia in a snub to Iran.

Two administration officials have told the Associated Press that Trump will visit the region next week, touring Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. He is set to make the announcement as a friendly overture to his hosts.

The body of water, lying between eastern Saudi Arabia and the southwestern coast of Iran, has been widely known by its current name since the 16th century. However, the regions Arab nations have preferred a designation closer to Trumps.

Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House on Tuesday May 6 2025 (AP)

Tehran has been protective of the seas historic name, however, and sued Google Maps in 2012 over its decision not to label it at all.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump waded into the issue early in his first term in 2017 when he alluded to the area as the Gulf of Arabia, causing Irans then-president Hassan Rouhani to suggest the American needed to study geography angrily.

His foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, likewise wrote in a social media post: Everyone knew Trumps friendship was for sale to the highest bidder. We now know that his geography is, too.

Trumps latest move will change how American officials refer to the area, but has no bearing on what the rest of the world calls the waterway, which is typically decided by the International Hydrographic Organization, a body to which the U.S. belongs.

It follows the presidents controversial executive order renaming a number of domestic landmarks, notably reverting Mount Denali in Alaska to its old name of Mount McKinley, preferring to ditch the native name for the peak in favor of honoring President William McKinley, an Ohioan who never once visited the state.

Trump visits Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on May 21 2017 during his first term and poses with First Lady Melania Trump, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz al-Saud (Saudi Royal Palace)

Trumps decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America provoked ridicule from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. The White House excluded the AP from its press pool after it refused to use the new name, leading to a court case in which the agency overturned the ruling and won the right to continue covering the West Wing at close quarters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have since returned the U.S. Army base Fort Liberty to its old name, Fort Bragg. However, this time it alludes to Second World War paratrooper Roland L Bragg, not the Confederate general Braxton Bragg, as was the original intention.

The presidents upcoming visit to the Middle East comes as he attempts to drum up Saudi investment in the U.S., resolve the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, and rein in Irans nuclear program.
By Michael Martina, Jeff Mason

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday suggested China initiated upcoming senior-level trade talks between the two countries and said he was not willing to cut U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods to get Beijing to the negotiating table.

The U.S. announced on Tuesday that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will meet with China's top economic official on Saturday in Switzerland, marking an initial step in potential negotiations over a blistering trade war that is disrupting the global economy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The development was welcomed in financial markets that have been battered by Trump's often-chaotic rollout of his tariff policies, with Wall Street snapping a two-day losing streak.

Prior to Tuesday's announcement, it was far from clear when - or even if - the world's No. 1 and No. 2 economies would engage to defuse the standoff.

Beijing had adopted fiery rhetoric as tensions with Washington ratcheted up, repeatedly saying it would not engage in negotiations unless the U.S. withdrew its tariffs. Its Commerce Ministry had suggested it was the U.S. side that had signaled a desire to hold talks.

"They said we initiated? Well, I think they ought to go back and study their files," Trump said in response to a reporter's question at a White House event where his ambassador to China, David Perdue, was sworn into office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Asked if he was willing to reduce tariffs to get China to negotiate, Trump said: "No."

"We were losing with China, on trade, a trillion dollars a year - more, actually," Trump said. "You know what we're losing now? Nothing. That's not bad."

The planned talks come after weeks of escalating tensions that have seen duties on goods imports between the world's two largest economies soar well beyond 100%, amounting to what Bessent on Tuesday called the equivalent of a trade embargo.

The impasse, compounded by Trump's decision last month to slap sweeping duties on dozens of other countries, has upended supply chains, roiled financial markets and stoked fears of a sharp downturn in global growth.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bessent said after the meeting announcement that the talks were about "de-escalation."

Jake Colvin, head of the National Foreign Trade Council, said the current tariffs were untenable and could cause huge damage to both economies if they persisted for months or years.

I would take it as a positive sign that they're talking, which appears to be the latest step in a series of de-escalatory moves," he said.

Craig Singleton at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies said it was notable that China agreed to talks without any U.S. concessions.

The Trump administration did not lift tariffs, pause enforcement actions, or even promise a negotiating roadmap  and yet China agreed to send Xis top economic czar, Vice Premier He Lifeng," he said. "Its acknowledgment that the tariffs are having their intended effect.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

EXEMPTIONS AND RETALIATION

But U.S. officials were also feeling the pressure, including growing public concerns about shortages and rising prices.

Testifying before the House Financial Services Committee, Bessent said the Trump administration is considering exempting car seats, baby strollers, cribs other essential items for transporting children from the 145% tariffs in place on China.

China has also approved some exemptions from its 125% tariffs on U.S. goods.

However, Trump sent mixed signals later, telling reporters he would look at specific industry requests for exemptions, but preferred to keep the duties broader and less complicated.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2018, the Trump administration exempted some products produced in China from 25% tariffs, including bicycle helmets and child-safety furniture such as car seats and playpens. However, car seat component parts, cribs, bassinets, diaper bags and wooden safety gates were not exempted.

In Singapore, the European Commission's trade commissioner, Maros Sefcovic, said the bloc would announce on Thursday details of its next countermeasures against U.S. tariffs, if negotiations - not yet begun - ultimately failed.

NEW ENVOY

At the White House event, Trump said he and Perdue, a former Republican U.S. senator from Georgia, would "work together very closely" on U.S. relations with China.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Perdue touted his personal relationship with Trump, something that could raise his stock in Beijing if Chinese officials assess he has a direct channel to the president.

"I want the world to know that I know this man personally. He loves this country, and I am glad to be your man in China," Perdue said.

In nominating Perdue, Trump had said he would be instrumental in implementing a "productive working relationship with China's leaders." During his confirmation hearing in early April, Perdue said the U.S. approach to China must be "nuanced, nonpartisan, and strategic."

Last year, however, Perdue condemned Chinese President Xi Jinping as a "modern-day emperor," writing in an essay that Beijing wanted to "destroy capitalism and democracy" and the U.S.-led world order.

(Reporting by Michael Martina, Jeff Mason and Jarrett Renshaw in Washington; additional reporting by Andrea Shalal and David Shepardson; Editing by Colleen Jenkins, Andrea Ricci and Sonali Paul)
The economic friction between the U.S. and China just reached a boiling point. Last month, the U.S. slapped a 145% tariff on Chinese imports, and China has responded with a 125% tariff on American goods.

Billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman, CEO of Pershing Square Capital Management, warned that prolonged trade tensions are pushing global companies to shift supply chains away from Chinapermanently.

"That cake is already baked," he wrote April 26 on X, referring to the irreversible decisions companies are making to exit China.

Don't Miss:

Tariffs Stack Up And Ships Slow Down

The tit-for-tat tariffs were detailed in an April overview by China Briefing, a publication by the consulting firm Dezan Shira & Associates, highlighting the mounting cost burdens for businesses on both sides of the Pacific. While President Donald Trump issued an Executive Order announcing a 90-day pause on future reciprocal tariffs on April 9, the relief excludes China.

Ackman shared on the same post that "tariffs are very damaging in the short term to companies that rely on China for a large percentage of their goods." He pushed for both countries to lower tariffs to 10%20%, adding, "The only thing stopping the reduction in tariffs to a more sensible level is the fear on the part of both countries leadership of looking weak."

Trade volumes are already feeling the pinch. Gene Seroka, executive director of the Port of Los Angeles, told CNBC he expects a 35% drop in container arrivals from China this spring compared to 2024 levels.

Trending: How do billionaires pay less in income tax than you? Tax deferring is their number one strategy.

Global Supply Chains Find New Homes

As companies scramble to minimize exposure, Ackman argued the longer the tariffs persist, "the more rapidly every company that has a supply chain based in China relocates it." He pointed to India, Vietnam, Mexico, and the U.S. as new manufacturing hubs for both U.S. and non-U.S. firms.

Data from Rhodium Group shows a surge in foreign direct investment into Southeast Asia and Mexico. Ironically, Chinese companies are driving much of this growth, expanding their own operations abroad as Western firms pull back.
By Jeff Mason

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Donald Trump said on Wednesday he will soon have an announcement on whether the U.S. will ease microchip export restrictions to some Gulf countries.

"We might be doing that, yeah," Trump said. "And it will be announced soon."

Trump is preparing for his first major diplomatic trip next week that includes a three-country Middle East tour that begins in Saudi Arabia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Biden administration imposed strict controls on exports of American AI chips to the Middle East over fears the prized semiconductors could be diverted to China and harnessed to bolster Beijing's military. But Trump has made improving ties with some countries in the region a key goal of his administration.

Trump also said that he also plans to soon address reports that the U.S. is moving to change the name of the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Gulf or Gulf of Arabia. Such a move would be welcomed by Arab Gulf leaders and likely draw anger from Iran.

(Reporting By Jeff Mason and Jarrett Renshaw and Alexandra Alper; Editing by Chris Reese and Chizu Nomiyama)
President Donald Trump slammed his predecessor, former President Barack Obama, and his Chicago Presidential Center during his meeting with the new Canadian Prime Minister, Mark Carney.

Trump referred to the project as a disaster, and blamed woke construction workers.

The meeting between Trump and Carney in the Oval Office focused mostly on tariffs and the shaky relationship between Canada and the U.S.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Responding to Trumps comments about making Canada the 51st U.S. state, Carney said his country is not for sale and wont be for sale, ever.

Meanwhile, Trump said the U.S.-Canadian border was artificial, and doggedly suggested once again that Canada join the U.S.

Trump blasted the construction of the Obama Presidential Library during an Oval Office meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney

But Trump also slipped in a few digs about the Obama Presidential Library, which is currently under construction in Jackson Park in Chicago.

"I mean, look, President Obama  and if he wanted help, I'd give him help because I build on time and on budget  he's building his presidential library in Chicago. It's a disaster," said Trump. "And he said something to the effect, 'I only want DEI, I only want woke.' He wants woke people to build it. Well, he got woke people, and they have massive cost overruns, the job is stopped. I don't know, it's a disaster."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It wasnt clear what exactly Trump meant by woke, but he said the Obama project construction workers werent mean enough. Trump used undocumented Polish construction workers in New York before he first became president, according to court testimony. He paid $1 million to settle labor complaints in 1998.

The Obama Foundation website states that impressive strides have been made to finish the presidential center, and the organization says it is doing so while working to build an environmentally friendly campus.

In last months construction update, the foundation outlined how exterior glass is being installed at Home Court, which is being described as a 45,000-square foot multipurpose space.

Meanwhile, granite work is being done on the Forum Building, which will host community activity and engagement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The two courtyards will bring light and green space to the building, the foundation states.

Installation of the museum exhibits has started, which will be an immersive experience outlining the history of Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama and their role in democratic progress.

The update stated that dozens of energy-efficient plans are being enacted on the campus.

Trump blasted the project as "millions of dollars, like many, many  I mean, really, millions of dollars over budget.

He claimed the issues stemmed from Obama wanting to be very politically correct and he didn't use good, hard, tough, mean construction workers that I love.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"He wanted people that, like, never did it before, and he's got a disaster on his hands," he said.

An Obama Foundation spokesperson told CBS News that Trumps comments were baseless and that he was speaking about "a relatively common dispute between two subcontractors over work that has already been completed.

"Everyone who sees the Obama Presidential Center is blown away by its beauty, scale, and the way it will be an economic engine for Chicago and a beacon of hope for the world," the foundation said. "We look forward to welcoming all visitors to the 19.3-acre campus next spring, to experience a presidential center that not only honors the Obamas' legacy but also lifts up the next generation of leaders."
Donald Trump is a socialist.

When I write socialist, I do not use the word the way most right-leaning commentators use it, meaning: bad. If you want to get a feel for exactly how insipid and repetitious the contemporary online right is, do a search for cackling socialistyou dont even need to include Kamala Harris. Youll be hip-deep in stupid in two clicks.

The thing about socialism is, it stays socialismwhether you like socialism or dislike it. It is a word that means something, and what it means isnt every dumb thing you dont like up to and including publicly funded sex-change operations for currently incarcerated illegal-immigrant felons.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Socialism doesnt mean high taxes or an expensive welfare state. You dont need socialism to have a portfolio of social-welfare programs. Japan has an extensive social-welfare apparatus, and it is far from socialist. Singapore is super-capitalist, and it offers my favorite kind of welfare: direct money payments to poor people. Even the big-spending Scandinavians have long abandoned the experiments in socialism that wrecked their economies in the postwar decades: In the high-tax European countries that so many of our progressive friends profess to admire, the trend for a generation has been away from state enterprise and central planning and toward privatization, trade, and investment. American progressives say they envy European health care systems they generally know nothing about; their European counterparts sincerely envy an American entrepreneurial ecosystem that they understand all too well but remain unable to replicate. Its a funny old world.

Socialism does not mean government-funded education and retirement benefits and health care subsidiesthose things are simply welfare, and there are better and worse ways to go about doing such things. Socialism means a centrally planned economy, one that is dominated by state action irrespective of whether it is dominated by formal state enterprises. Food stamps are welfaresocialism can mean state-owned farms and grocery stores, but more often it means a state apparatus that runs the farms and grocery stores as though it owned them, setting prices, negotiating the terms of employment, and determining how business is to be donea little more of this crop, a little less of that commodity, etc.

V.I. Lenin described his ideal society as one managed as though it were one big factory. The Leninist view, it is worth keeping in mind, was profoundly influenced by some of the big ideas and most influential and prestigious thinkers of late 19th-century and early 20th-century capitalism, especially the mania for scientific management associated with Frederick Winslow Taylor.

Karl Marx was right about one thing: The means of production really do shape the intellectual landscape in profound ways, and the advent of standardized, interchangeable, mass-produced industrial parts made by power machinerymachines making other machines, an innovation that owes much to Samuel Coltsuggested a parallel vision of social organization: rational, standardized, uniform, efficient, subject to constant refinement and improvement under the benevolent gaze of engineers and scientists and professional managers. We Americans still talk about society that way, e.g., as though the job of schools were not to educate human beings but to produce workers or, better still, produce workers custom-trained for employers needs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The push toward cartels and monopolies in the age of the so-called robber barons was not exclusively rooted in self-interestthere also was a sincere belief that this was the way to make production more efficient, by eliminating wasteful duplication of work and products, destructive competition, and overproduction, sentiments that one can still hear today when Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump complain that American children have too many toys and school supplies or too many choices of deodorant. (I have been to Sanders and Trump campaign events, and I can attest that the splendiferous overproduction of deodorant is not a pressing American problem.) Lenin did not dream up the idea of society as one big factory on his ownAmerican capitalists got there before him, swerving, as they still do, far outside of their lanes.

Donald Trump does not know the first thing about how a factory operates, of course, and neither do most of the private-equity dorks and middling media figures with which he has stocked his administration, a veritable museum of minor Fox News figures. But he has been inside Macys, and even had a product-licensing deal with the department store once upon a timeghastly shirts and ties with a predictable Gordon Gekko meets Liberace aesthetic.

And so Trumps version of quasi-monarchical Leninism is no surprise. Its not one big factory: Its one big Macys, with him leading the parade.

We are a department store, and we set the price. I meet with the companies, and then I set a fair price, what I consider to be a fair price, and they can pay it, or they dont have to pay it. They dont have to do business with the United States, but I set a tariff on countries.  What Im doing is I will, at a certain point in the not too distant future, I will set a fair price of tariffs for different countries. These are countriessome of them have made hundreds of billions of dollars, and some of them have made just a lot of money. Very few of them have made nothing because the United States was being ripped off by every, almost every country in the world, in the entire world. So I will set a price, and when I set the price, and I will set it fairly according to the statistics, and according to everything else.  I am this giant store. Its a giant, beautiful store, and everybody wants to go shopping there. And on behalf of the American people, I own the store, and I set prices, and Ill say, if you want to shop here, this is what you have to pay.

President Trumps vision of the U.S. economy in a global context, then, is that of a giant department store  run by a guy who doesnt know how a department store works.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you ask the president what the U.S. balance of trade with Eritrea should be (and if you then explain to him that, unlike Nambia, Eritrea is a country), hell give you a dumb answer, of course. But the problem wont be that the answer goes off in one direction or another but that heand people like himthink there is an answer, and that it is the job of the president of the executive branch of the federal government to provide one and act on itthat the president can somehow determine this according to the statistics and according to everything else.

Its the according to everything else that gets you, of course. Never mind a big department storetake a simple grocery store, which typically has something like 40,000 to 50,000 unique products. If you want to determine what the correct price of each product should be, even within a fairly narrow range, and how much product should be stocked relative to current inventory, again within a fairly narrow range, throw in a few other important variables, and then consider all of the possible permutations, you end up with a number of possible distributions expressed by a number that has about 200,000 digits. If you took one second to consider each possibilitybecause you, a responsible central planner, are considering every option!it would take more time to run the numbers for a single suburban grocery store than has passed since the Big Bang: All the time in the world, literally, wouldnt be enough.

Trump cant put names to faces for half of the people who work directly for him and invents imaginary countries from time to time. But, somehow, he knows what imported bananas from country X absolutely should cost relative to those from country Ybecause neither a sparrow nor a drop of rain in Ecuador falls without his knowledge.

Yeah.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Donald Trumps vision of the economy is classic socialism. And if you want to say that what it really is is classic nationalism, fair enough: As Jonah Goldberg observes, at the level of practical economics nationalism and socialism are the same thing: nationalized industries are socialized industries, socialized industries are nationalized industries, nationalized medicine is socialized medicine, etc. Bernie Sanders thinks and speaks as a nationalist, as do left-wing writers at places such as Dissent magazinesee J.W. Masons A Cautious Case for Economic Nationalism. Barack Obamas economic views were explicitly nationalist. Trumps view of a man at a desk moving pieces of the economy around like rooks and pawns on a chessboard is what socialism is all aboutthough the old tyrants in Moscow at least had the humility to assume that a committee of experts would be necessary to manage the economy according to scientific principles or at least the guile to pretend that they believed it, whereas Trump apparently has swallowed his own silly god-man horsepucky, being, as he is, an ass of exceptional asininity.

Its as though somebody rewrote The Road to Serfdom as a third-tier Monty Python skit:

These policies are going to make it more expensive to buy Christmas presents for my kids.

Well, maybe your kids dont need so many presents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But wasnt your plan supposed to make us all rich?

It will. Think of all the money youll save when you cant afford to buy ANYTHING!

The same people who used to laugh at the Russians and their five-year plans for wheat production now prostrate themselves before the Committee of One, confident in the knowledge that Comrade Trump knows where the Hallmark Channel should be filming its next Christmas-themed rom-com and what percentage of the subcomponents for the flux capacitors should be manufactured in Canada. But, no, we didnt elect the cackling socialist. Trump, to my knowledge, doesnt cackle. But he is economically more in Lenins camp than in Adam Smiths and Milton Friedmans and Ronald Reagans. He already imagines himself as a kind of royal figureany guess who the serfs are going to be when we get to the end of this road?

Read more at The Dispatch

The Dispatch is a new digital media company providing engaged citizens with fact-based reporting and commentary, informed by conservative principles. Sign up for free.
A global rollback of womens rights was already underway before US President Donald Trump took office. But now its in hyper speed. Trumps actions, including his broad slashing of international aid, both cause direct harm and encourage other world leaders to walk away from womens rights.

For years, most mainstream politicians saw advancing the rights of women and girls as a priority, even if the reality did not always match the rhetoric. Doing so often seemed uncontroversial and bipartisan, including in the UK. Foreign Secretary William Hague and Angelina Jolie in 2014 opened an initiative on sexual violence in armed conflict.

The same year, the UKs coalition government held a Girl Summit promising global leadership to end child marriage and female genital mutilation. In 2021, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that girls education globally was a top priority. And just last month, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced the appointment of Harriet Harman as UK Special Envoy for Women and Girls. Her job: to champion gender equality worldwide.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The 2023 US Agency for International Development (USAID) Gender Equality and Womens Empowerment Policy was also unequivocal: Gender equality is a human right. This statement reflects international law  189 countries, the vast majority of the world, have agreed to be bound by the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

The #MeToo movement went viral in 2017. Women around the world shared experiences of gender-based violence and demanded solutions. No one was naive about the challenge of dismantling centuries of patriarchy, but there was a feeling that womens legitimate demands could not be denied.

Yet today we are struggling to slow the loss of rights protections.Trumps attack on womens rights within the US has already gravely damaged respect for reproductive rights and is having a much broader impact on the health and economic rights of women and girls inside the United States. Abortion is now illegal in 12 of the 50 US states, according to the Centre for Reproductive Rights.

But his policies harmful impact stretches far beyond the US. First, there are the aid cuts themselves. The Trump administration has drastically slashed US government funding for international aid, including to programs focused specifically on assisting women. The US had been the worlds largest aid donor. Women and girls are dying as a result and many more will die unless these policies are reversed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Trump administration has also cut crucial research on womens health. They have dismantled parts of the US government that were responsible for developing aid programming, including teams to end gender inequality. The administration has cut over US$500 million in Labor Department grants to uphold international labour standards in 40 countries, including programs to support gender equity and womens participation in the workforce, and to combat human trafficking  which disproportionately impacts women and girls.

Women and girls will suffer

The Trump administrations broader assault on what it refers to as DEI  efforts to redress inequities based on historical and current forms of racism and other forms of discrimination  is having a deeply chilling impact. Even the word gender seems to be an anathema to the US government, with, for example, the US mission to the UN seeking to remove this word from every UN resolution.

Decades of hard work went into helping the aid sector be more cognisant of and responsive to how inequalities intersect. For example, if a population is facing a famine, donor governments and aid groups need specific strategies to get food to women and girls who, among other obstacles, face greater difficulties in accessing distribution centres.

During conflicts, women and girls face gendered impacts that often include sexual violence, but also affect their livelihoods, access to education, safety, freedom of movement, and care-giving roles. Forced displacement often exposes them to further violence. These gendered impacts are further complicated when they intersect with other forms of marginalisation, including based on race, ethnicity, age, and disability.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The disproportionate impacts that women and girls face exist across the entire range of human rights issues. Trumps crackdown on DEI language makes it harder even to discuss these issues.

During the first Trump administration, some countries, led by the Netherlands, filled gaps in international aid created by the already deeply harmful but far less drastic cuts. This time around, we see the opposite. Even among countries pledging to maintain their aid budgets there is no talk of increases, and often the news is much worse.

Under US pressure to boost military spending and concerned that their security pact with the US is breaking down, European countries that have seen themselves as leaders on womens rights are sharpening their axes. The UK Labour government cut the already reduced aid budget again, a total reduction since 2021 of more than half, alongside a wave of cuts by other European countries. The Netherlands government is among those cutting.

Make no mistake  women and girls suffer as a result. The World Health Organization  one of the UN bodies the US is withdrawing from  warns that the cuts have made the goals on reducing maternal mortality almost unachievable. Funding cuts are closing down some of the few facilities providing emergency medical care to survivors of rape in war zones. Programs around the world that provided life-saving assistance are closing their doors.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump is leading the way to a cruel new world order in which women and girls are among the first victims. Governments everywhere have a duty to push back.

Heather Barr is associate womens rights director at Human Rights Watch

Protect yourself and your family by learning more about Global Health Security

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.
The U.S. Postal Services governing board plans to select FedEx board member and former Waste Management CEO David Steiner as the next postmaster general after he was approved by President Donald Trump, according to an exclusive report by The Washington Post.

The newspaper said FedEx, which competes and partners with the Postal Service on package delivery, pushed Steiner before the White House as a candidate for the job. Last year, the mail service replaced FedEx with UPS on a major contract to provide domestic air cargo service. And in recent years, FedEx has insourced final-mile delivery of low-value, non-urgent parcels that it previously handed to the Postal Service in certain areas.

The White Houses role in directly picking the postmaster general for the board of governors to rubber stamp is unprecedented and illustrates the degree to which the Trump administration is working to undermine the agencys independent status.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The board meets Friday, but the official agenda doesnt show a vote scheduled for a new postmaster general.

A major postal union condemned the possible choice of Steiner, saying he is anti-union and has a conflict of interest because FedEx and other private parcel haulers have been angling to take more package business from the Postal Service.

The selection of Steiner is an aggressive step toward handing Americas mail system over to corporate interests. Private shippers have been waiting to get USPS out of parcel delivery for years. Steiners selection is an open invitation to do just that, said Brian Renfroe, president of the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC), in a statement Tuesday evening.

During his tenure as Waste Management, Inc.s CEO, Steiner took a stand against unions. He built his brand on union-busting, slashing jobs, and replacing workers with machines. He has publicly bragged about shrinking the union footprint. Now, hes being handed the keys to one of the nations largest unionized employers, Renfroe added. At a time when collaboration with workers helped USPS turn a $144 million profit in the last quarter of 2024, this decision flies in the face of everything thats working.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But a Postal Service employee, who spoke on condition of anonymity to protect against any job retribution, suggested NALCs opposition could be overblown. He suggested that the interests of members and union leaders arent always aligned, pointing to an agency effort last decade to eliminate Saturday delivery, which would have saved billions of dollars. Rank-and-file workers cheered the move, but union leaders blocked it because it meant about 40,000 fewer dues-paying letter carriers.

The national unions are worried about Number 1 and that Steiner might put a dent in union rolls and dues, he said.

Steiner would succeed Louis DeJoy, who instituted an aggressive 10-year plan to turn around Postal Service finances and improve efficiency but abruptly left office on March 24.

Many agency stakeholders and observers have said DeJoy was ousted by Trump, who is looking to exert control over the agency and has talked about placing it within the Department of Commerce. The Washington Post previously reported that DeJoy was forced out because he wasnt willing to fully comply with directives from Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency, an office tasked with rooting out waste, fraud and abuse that so far has fallen far short of delivering promised savings. Trump and his aides have also openly talked about the possibility of privatizing the Postal Service.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Renfroe claimed letter carriers are outraged by Steiners selection as postmaster general because private parcel carriers will be less interested in serving rural communities, where low population density makes it much more expensive to make residential deliveries. With fewer parcel responsibilities, the Postal Service will cut more jobs, he warned.

Amazon, however, last week announced its intention to invest $4 billion to build out delivery infrastructure in rural areas.

The board has the responsibility to do what is best for USPS. This decision is not only a failure in that responsibility but shows open contempt for the work of Americas letter carriers and the public good, Renfroe said.

Sources also told the Post that Trump is maneuvering to give Jim Cochrane, president of the Package Shippers Association, a senior position at the agency.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Package Coalition, which represents large e-commerce retailers that rely on the postal system to deliver orders, in mid-April called on the board of governors to move quickly on filling the postmaster general position to ensure stability and provide a vision for the future. Doug Tulino, the deputy postmaster general, has led the agency on an acting basis since DeJoys departure.

Click here for more FreightWaves and American Shipper articles by Eric Kulisch.

Contact Reporter: ekulisch@freightwaves.com

RECOMMENDED READING:

A look at DeJoys Postal Service legacy after quick departure

Postmaster general Louis DeJoy announces sudden departure

Postal Service to adjust delivery standards for network efficiency

The post Trump supports FedEx official for Postal Service chief, report says appeared first on FreightWaves.
Trumps proposed 100pc tariff on foreign films could push up the cost of the BBC licence fee, the shadow culture secretary has warned.

The UK government said it was in active discussions with the White House after the US president suggested he may apply tariffs to foreign-made films to revive Americas movie industry.

The move could cripple the revenue of BBC Studios, the corporations commercial arm, which last year made 454m by selling productions to the American market, according to its annual report. Some of its most notable exports include Doctor Who and David Attenboroughs Frozen Planet films.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is unclear whether Trumps tariffs will be applied solely to films or also television series.

Either way, shadow culture secretary, Stuart Andrew, warned the loss of income could leave British licence fee payers footing the bill.

In an urgent question to the Government on Wednesday, he asked: What assessment have they made on the potential drastic cut in the BBC Studios profits, that sells into the US market, could have on the licence fee?

Sir Chris Byrant, the culture minister, said in response that Labour was already in active discussions with the top of the US administration on this subject.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

More than 1.8bn was made by BBC Studios last year by selling its popular British film and television productions to audiences around the world, down from 2.1bn in 2023.

The money is a lifeline for the corporation as more viewers cancel their licence fees and turn to streaming services like Netflix instead.

When asked by The Telegraph how it planned to deal with the impact of the tariffs should they come into effect, the BBC declined to comment.

Mr Andrew said it was proof Labour should have begun trade negotiations with President Trump sooner.

He told The Telegraph: They wasted five months when they could have been negotiating. They need to highlight [to President Trump] that tariffs will hurt US businesses as they have invested in UK facilities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Government is racing to seal a trade deal with President Trump to reduce the impact of his tariff regime  under which UK exporters will pay a blanket 10pc tariff. Last month, Trump initiated a 90-day pause before the regime was implemented.

On Tuesday, it was reported Angelina Jolies father, Jon Voight, had advised the White House to include films produced outside of the US in its tariff war in a bid to save Hollywood.

However, the President appeared to soften his stance late on Tuesday, telling CNBC: Im not looking to hurt the industry, I want to help the industry.

Experts said it may spark a total overhaul of the 174.50 annual licence fee scheme.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Patrick Barwise, emeritus professor of management and marketing at London Business School, said: This will further feed into a sense that it is going to damage BBC Studios ability to generate revenue from [the US] market.

The contributions from BBC Studios are used to subsidise the licence free. My hunch is that well end up with a different model from the licence fee.

He added it was another blow on top of the massive funding cuts since 2010. This is going to hit its exports but also it will hit other UK studios. It hits the whole distribution system and it will increase costs.

The BBCs charter, which authorises it to administer the licence fee to generate profit, is due to end in 2027, with discussions between the corporation and the Government starting this year and its renewal thereafter.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lisa Nandy, the culture secretary, previously criticised the model as unenforceable.

A government spokesman said: Talks on an economic deal between the US and the UK are ongoing  but we are not going to provide a running commentary on the details of live discussions or set any timelines because it is not in the national interest.

We will continue to take a calm and steady approach to talks and aim to find a resolution to help ease the pressure on UK businesses and consumers.

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.
A New York-based federal appeals court has ordered Donald Trumps administration to transfer Tufts University scholar Rumeysa Ozturk from an immigration detention center in Louisiana to Vermont.

The case of Ozturk, a Turkish international student and former Fulbright scholar working towards her doctorate in child development, is among several high-profile cases at the center of the Trump administrations targeting of international students for their advocacy for Palestine during Israels war in Gaza.

In March, Ozturks visa was revoked and she was arrested and detained by plain-clothes federal agents outside her apartment in Massachusetts in what her lawyers argue is a retaliatory attempt to deport her over an op-ed she wrote in a student newspaper.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The government has one week to transfer her, according to Wednesdays order, which arrived less than 24 hours after a hearing in which government attorneys failed to say whether they even agree with the administrations position that her pro-Palestine speech is not constitutionally protected.

Appellate Judge Barrington Parker, who was appointed by George W. Bush, pressed Department of Justice attorney Drew Ensign on whether Ozturks statements  and statements from another international student who was arrested for support for Palestine  amount to protected speech.

Your honor, we havent taken a position on that, Ensign replied.

Help my thinking. Take a position, Parked fired back.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I dont have authority to take a position, Ensign said.

Demonstrators gathered outside a federal appeals court in Manhattan on May 6 to support Tufts University doctoral student Rumeysa Ozturk (Getty Images)

Ozturk has been locked up in a rural Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in Louisiana for more than 100 days. In sworn statements in court documents, she reported experiencing several asthma attacks and sharing a cell with more than 20 others in cramped and unsanitary conditions.

Her detention is unprecedented and shocking, according to Esha Bhandari, deputy director of the ACLUs Speech, Privacy, and Technology Project.

She has been held behind bars for six weeks while her health deteriorates for writing an op-ed, she told a three-judge appeals court panel Wednesday. Detention is not the norm with respect to visa revocation, as we had here. The executive branch made a specific decision to detain Ms. Ozturk that was motivated by her speech.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last month, Vermont District Judge William K. Sessions ordered Ozturks transfer to a detention center in the state, noting that her case has raised significant constitutional concerns with her arrest and detention which merit full and fair consideration in this forum.

The Trump administration appealed the order, arguing that Ozturk can be deported under the Immigration and Nationality Act, which Secretary of State Marco Rubio has invoked against dozens of international students who he claims have adverse impacts on the countrys foreign policy.

But the administration does not appear to possess any evidence backing up claims of antisemitism and support for a terrorist organization to justify her arrest, according to court filings and government memos.

No one should be arrested and locked up for their political views, Bhandari said in a statement Wednesday. Every day that Rumeysa Ozturk remains in detention is a day too long. Were grateful the court refused the governments attempt to keep her isolated from her community and her legal counsel as she pursues her case for release.
Donald Trump can enforce a ban on transgender people serving in the military, the Supreme Court has ruled.

The high court on Tuesday approved an emergency petition from the administration to stop an injunction that blocked the ban from taking effect while a challenge to the order plays out in the courts.

It means the US can begin implementing the executive order signed by the president in January, which discharges service members who identify as transgender.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, hailed the Supreme Courts order as a massive victory saying Mr Trump and Pete Hegseth, the defence secretary, are restoring a military that is focused on readiness and lethality  not DEI or woke gender ideology.

Seven transgender military service members and one aspiring service member sued the administration over the latest ban.

They argued that it was a violation of the 14th Amendments equal protection guarantee.

In March, Seattle US District Judge Benjamin Settle issued a preliminary injunction blocking the ban from taking effect, describing it as unsupported, dramatic and facially unfair.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A panel of the San Francisco-based US Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit allowed the injunction to remain in effect, meaning the Trump administration had to appeal to the supreme court as a last resort .

The federal appeals court in San Francisco will hear the administrations appeal in a process that will play out over several months.

The US military lifted a ban on transgender troops in 2016, during Barack Obamas second term as president.

Under that policy, trans troops already serving were permitted to do so openly and transgender recruits were set to start being accepted by July 1 2017.

But the first Trump administration postponed that date to 2018 before deciding to reverse the policy entirely.

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.
The Trump administration allegedly tried to deport illegal migrants to Ukraine.

A senior US diplomat is said to have approached Kyiv in January with a proposal for the war-torn country to accept deportation flights, according to documents reviewed by The Washington Post.

There are few details about the nature of the proposed agreement, but a Ukrainian representative allegedly told the US embassy that Kyiv would respond once it has made a decision.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The diplomat is said to have told American counterparts that while Ukraine has a solid track record of accepting the return of its citizens when removed by the United States, the government in Kyiv faces the difficulty of war-time exigencies.

The revelation comes as Mr Trump seeks to rapidly expand the deportation of illegal migrants by striking deals with third-party countries to accept them.

Ukraine has so far not accepted deportation flights from the US, and there is no indication that Kyiv is seriously considering the proposal.

Ukrainian officials told the outlet that the topic had never reached the highest level of government and that they were unaware of any political demands made by the US over accepting deportees.

The US has signed a deal with Ukraine to share profits from the future sale of the latters mineral and energy reserves - Saul Loeb/Getty

The proposal was made in the days after Mr Trump returned to office, as the president sought to broker a peace deal with Russia and threatened to withdraw its support from Ukraine if the two sides could not reach an agreement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last week, the US signed a minerals deal with Ukraine after months of tense negotiations.

Efforts to encourage Ukraine to accept deported migrants are not thought to have been raised in the process of signing the economic partnership, which gives the president a stake in the future of Ukraine.

The documents seen by The Post allege that the US made similar approaches to several countries around the same date.

So far, El Salvador, Mexico, Costa Rica and Panama have agreed to receive deportees who are not their citizens.

The Trump administration is also planning to deport a group of migrants to Libya, US officials told the New York Times, with a military plane expected to take off as soon as Wednesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rwanda is in discussions with the US over a deportation deal as well, having last month accepted a payment of $100,000 to take in an Iraqi deportee.

The US government is aiming to accelerate and expand its deportation policy - X

The African nation has agreed to take in an extra 10 deportees of various nationalities as part of a durable programme for accepting removals, according to documents reviewed by The Washington Post.

The Telegraph this week revealed that Rwandan accommodation paid for by British taxpayers could be used to house those who are deported.

The Trump administration is facing numerous legal challenges over its deportation policy, after it removed a group of Venezuelan migrants to El Salvador, where they are being held in a maximum-security prison.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The US government is also said to be in talks with Georgia and Uzbekistan over accepting removal flights, according to The Washington Post.

A spokesman for the State Department told the outlet that ongoing engagement with foreign governments is vital to deterring illegal and mass migration and securing our borders.

The State Department and Department of Homeland Security were approached for comment.

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.
The Trump administration is reportedly hard at work looking for ways to incentivize people to have more children, with the president calling one such proposal, a $5,000 baby bonus for recent parents, a good idea last month.

The White House has also reportedly fielded proposals about bestowing a National Medal of Motherhood to mothers with six or more children.

Democrats, for their part, say theyre supportive of ways to support new parents, but that Trump and his allies have the wrong approach.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you want to encourage families to have children and be serious about it, then you would work to lower costs, build economic security for families, Rep. Rosa DeLauro of Connecticut told NBC News.

Theres a little incongruity here between talking about encouraging women to have more children and families to have more children and at the same time, really putting up enormous obstacles, she added, pointing to Republican discussions to cut as much as $880 billion from Medicaid as part of budget negotiations.

Last week, the House Democratic Womens Caucus wrote to Trump, calling his potential baby boom ideas out of step with reality, and at odds with the administrations moves cutting maternal health and child initiatives, firing maternal health and fertility researchers at the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, and proposing to defund the Head Start early education program.

Trump administration interest in increasing births comes as White House looks to cut health and early childhood spending (Getty)

Youve thrown our economy into chaos, making everyday essentials more expensive and making family budgeting nearly impossible, the letter reads. This is not a pro-family agenda.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In early April, a group of Senate Democrats introduced a proposal to permanently increase the Child Tax Credit for middle- and low-income families, which was temporarily expanded during the pandemic.

The expanded Child Tax Credit benefited 61 million American kids, helped cut childhood poverty nearly in half, and cut hunger by a quarter for families, Senator Michael Bennet of Colorado wrote in a statement accompanying the proposal. Parents across Colorado told me it reduced their stress and made it easier for them to afford child care, rent, and school supplies. It was the best thing weve done for kids and families in generations.

Experts say longer-term investments in healthcare, child care, and family leave will do more to support new families than a one-time payment, while bringing the U.S. in line with wealthy peer nations that typically offer far more social support for new parents.

I had a baby a few months ago, and a one-time payment of $5,000 wouldnt do much if I didnt also have paid leave that let me keep my job, good health insurance, family support, incredible childcare and the kind of job that allows me to both provide for my family and be there for pickup, Lily Roberts, managing director for inclusive growth at the Center for American Progress, toldThe Guardian. Every mom in America deserves that, and every dad does too.
Cboe Global Markets Inc. (CBOE), a leading securities exchange operator, recently announced that it has appointed Craig Donohue as its new CEO.

Effective 7 May, Donohue will succeed Fredric Tomczyk, who will step down as CEO and remain on the board.

Donohue became chairman of the Options Clearing Corp. (OCC) board in 2024, having previously served as executive chairman since 2019 after a three-year tenure as CEO from 2016 to 2019.

He originally joined the OCC in 2014 as executive chairman.

Prior to OCC, Donohue served as CEO of derivatives exchange operator CME Group from 2004 to 2012, where he led over $20 billion in mergers and acquisitions.

Commenting on the appointment, William M. Farrow III, chairman of the board of Cboe Global Markets, said, "We are thrilled to welcome Craig to Cboe. His visionary leadership, deep experience, industry relationships, and proven track record in global financial markets make him an excellent individual to take the helm as CEO at Cboe."

Elsewhere, Robert Marrocco, who served as global ETP listings head for just under 10 years, departed the firm to join the Texas Stock Exchange as its global head of exchange-traded products (ETPs).

CBOE Earnings Highlights

CBOE reported its first-quarter 2025 earnings results on May 2, which showed a record quarterly net revenue reading of $565 million. That marked a 13% increase from 2024's first quarter figure.

The company also reported a 25% year-over-year increase in operating income to nearly $354 million, as well as $2.37 in diluted earnings per sharea 21% increase versus 2024's first quarter.

Speaking to the current quarter, Tomczyk said in the press release, "The second quarter is off to a robust start, and we look forward to continuing to execute on our strategic vision by providing clients with a diverse toolkit of products for any market environment."

This article was originally published at etf.com sister publication ETF Stream.





Permalink |  Copyright 2025 etf.com. All rights reserved
President Trump recently floated the idea of reopening San Franciscos Alcatraz federal penitentiary. Could he reopen Washingtons abandoned island prison?

In a Truth Social post on Sunday, Trump said he was directing the Bureau of Prisons, Department of Justice, FBI, and Department of Homeland Security to reopen, enlarge and rebuild the former federal penitentiary on Alcatraz Island, which closed in 1963 and is now a tourist attraction managed by the National Park Service. Questioned about the decision by reporters on Monday, Trump said Alcatraz is a symbol of law and order, according to PBS News footage.

Located west of Steilacoom in Puget Sound, Pierce Countys McNeil Island measures about seven square miles; its 27-acre prison opened as a federal penitentiary in 1875, 14 years before Washington became a state, according to the Washington State Department of Corrections website. Chris Wright, communications director at the Washington State Department of Corrections, told The News Tribune via email that McNeil Island was officially deeded to Washington state in 1984.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 1981, the facility became the state-operated, minimum to medium security McNeil Island Corrections Center (MICC) and remained as the oldest prison in the Northwest and the last U.S. island-based prison until it closed in April 2011, according to the state DOC website.

Asked if the federal government could reopen the facility, Wright said in a follow-up email that its not out of the question, though it hasnt been proposed.

Wright told The News Tribune that the original deed requires the state of Washington to have an operational prison on the island, meaning the state has technically been in violation of the deed for the last 14 years since MICC closed.

In theory, the feds could take the island back, he said in the email.

The ferry Neil Henly makes the 2.8 mile crossing from McNeil Island to Steilacoom carrying corrections staff and visitors on March 23, 2011. Dean J. Koepfler/News Tribune file photo

The DOC website states that the DOCs Industries program is responsible for general island maintenance for Washington state to stay in compliance with the federal deed. Despite this program, however, Wright said via email, the fact that the prison has closed is enough for federal authority to cite noncompliance with the deed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the state DOC website, the prison was declared an official United States prison in 1904, but had served as a federal penitentiary for over 100 years before it was leased to the state of Washington in 1981. Wright told The News Tribune on the phone Tuesday that the McNeil Island Penitentiary held notorious inmates such as cult leader Charles Manson and the infamous Birdman of Alcatraz Robert Stroud.

MICCs 2011 closure was brought on by financial struggles following the 2008 recession, Wright said. Although other U.S. island prisons like Rikers Island and Terminal Island remain operational, bridges now connect them to the mainland; MICC was the last island prison that could truly only be reached by plane or ferry, he added. Maintaining an island facility makes everything  from transporting food and medicine to maintaining infrastructure  much more expensive, he said.

Inherent costs that come with running an island facility are very high, he said. ... The state decided to shut it down in the wake of the financial challenges and its been mothballed ever since.

Today, McNeil Island also holds the states Special Commitment Center, a separate facility run by the state Department of Social and Health Services that serves as a place to civilly commit sex offenders that the state has identified as sexually violent predators after the completion of their prison sentences.

The McNeil Island prison, shown here on March 23, 2011, was closed in 2011. Dean J. Koepfler/News Tribune file photo

The prison is currently unmaintained, closed to the public and there are no plans to reopen it, Wright said. He said the facility has fallen into disrepair since it closed in 2011, and unlike Alcatraz  which hosts frequent tours  safety concerns, including unstable infrastructure and asbestos, keep visitors limited to those associated with the state DOC, Coast Guard patrols or state DSHS operations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I cant imagine that the state would consider opening it again, Wright said.

Editors note: An earlier version of this story misstated where Charles Manson served time in prison. He served time at McNeil Island.
On trade, Donald Trump has been quickly and decisively proven right on at least one count.

At a Cabinet meeting last week, he downplayed the impact of his trade policy on American consumers, quipping that maybe the children will have two dolls instead of 30 dolls  And maybe the two dolls will cost a couple of bucks more than they would normally. He liked the line so much that he repeated a version of it during an interview on Meet the Press. He explained that they dont need to have 30 dolls. They can have three. They dont need to have 250 pencils. They can have five.

Sure enough, Mattel, Americas biggest toy company by sales, has now warned that Americans could soon see price increases as a result of Trumps trade war. Theres no question that tariffs are creating disruption in the industry, said Mattel chief executive, Ynon Kreiz. Many companies have stopped production and shipping to the US as a result of tariffs from China.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Still, at least the president is being upfront about the consequences of his trade policy. After all, on liberation day, when he announced his so-called reciprocal tariffs on Americas trading partners, he wasnt saying Americans should prepare to pay more for less. Far from it, he was promising a golden age of America .

April 2, 2025 will forever be remembered as the day American industry was reborn, the day Americas destiny was reclaimed, and the day that we began to make America wealthy again, insisted Trump, whose administration has often contradicted itself by claiming tariffs can be a revenue source, a bargaining chip for better trade terms, and a way to rebuild industry all at the same time.

Its only been a little more than a month, and yet the presidents tone has shifted dramatically. Its not wealth and golden ages on the tip of his tongue, but price hikes and the equivalent of wartime austerity.

Only the United States isnt at war, and isnt facing an existential threat due to foreign trade. Indeed, Trump is calling on his voters to make sacrifices not on behalf of something that is destined to deliver enormous returns over time, but over a dubious policy that his administration has executed appallingly.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The presidents fixation with tariffs is informed by poor logic and worse history. He seems to think that any country exporting to the United States is ripping us off, and has made the risible assertion that the proximate cause of the Great Depression was that tariffs were too low. If only one of his more well-intentioned advisers were to google Smoot-Hawley and show him the results.

Unfortunately for the president, voters do not seem to agree that he is ushering in a new golden age. In the days since their liberation, Trumps approval rating has cratered, and deservedly so.

Because while Trump may think that children wont mind fewer dolls in the cause of rendering US manufacturing artificially more competitive, Americans have realised that the immediate consequence is likely to be higher prices, less choice, and inferior quality products across the board.

The fact that their fate is being downplayed by President Trump is likely to be even more galling. He came to fame by making his name synonymous with wealth and success. He rose from the political ashes to take back the White House last year largely because Americans associated his first term in office with an economic boom. Hes also no stranger to what many might consider superfluous stuff  from the gold ornamentation that now adorns the Oval Office to Trump-themed merchandise.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

So even if there was a strong case for Americans to be buying fewer dolls for their daughters, President Trump would be the wrong person to make it. His appeal has always been as the man to bring America guilt-free abundance. Not austerity and hardship.

Isaac Schorr is a staff writer at Mediaite and a Robert Novak fellow

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.
While recently aboard Air Force One, President Donald Trump told reporters that "a young ladya 10-year-old girl, 9-year-old girl, 15-year-old girldoesn't need 37 dolls. She could be very happy with two or three or four or five." He doubled down in an interview with NBC's Kristen Welker, saying that Americans "don't need to have 250 pencils. They can have five."

Trump is referring to the economic hardship that is inevitable due to his tariffs. Toys are a particular focus, many of which come from China and are subject to the highest tariffs. Trump is asking Americans to make sacrifices, and not with the eloquence of John F. Kennedythe sacrifices we make are simply to satisfy his pride.

Americans produce a lot and consume a lot. We have among the highest average incomes and we buy a lot of stuff. We derive pleasure from acquiring and using material things, whether they're toys, clothes, video games, or cars. If 37 dolls make you happy, and you have the means, then go out and buy 37 dolls. It is not a question of whether we need them or not.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump's comments are an explicit rejection of materialism, abundance, and capitalism itself. I much prefer the Trump who was obsessively tweeting about stocks going up in his first term. Not only is Trump not tweeting about stocks, but he seems entirely indifferent to the prospect of a recession.

In other comments, Trump has said that prosperity can be achieved through tariffswhich is obviously untrueso it seems likely that he's willing to trade off some short-term economic pain for potential long-term gain. But as any student of economics will tell you, the tariffs are all pain, and even if the president doesn't expect a recession, we are probably going to get one.

I don't buy dolls, but I do buy clothes. I am a clotheshorse. I own 250 T-shirts, 40 pairs of jeans, 70 shirts, 30 jackets, 20 suits, and 50 pairs of shoes. I like that I can walk into my closet and mix and match outfits every day, with nearly an infinite number of permutations. It gives me pleasure. Most of the shirts are made in India; the shoes are made in Italy (Italians have a better reputation for making shoes than Americans). They will be more expensive after the tariffs, and I will have to economize unless the manufacturer completely relocates the supply chain to the U.S. at great cost.

Do I need all these clothes? Of course notbut that is not the point. I am using the money that I earnthe product of my best effortto buy the best efforts of a manufacturer on the other side of the world. I do not buy inferior products to keep less-competent Americans employed doing busywork.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The doll comments are somewhat reminiscent of former President Jimmy Carter putting on a sweater and going on TV in 1977 to ask Americans to turn the heat down in the face of natural gas shortages. That, followed by his 1977 "malaise speech," negatively impacted national morale and likely cost him his presidency.

There doesn't seem to be as much visceral outrage at Trump's assertion that American girls can make do with less. Yet, if there is a greater good here, Trump has been unable to articulate it. If the tariffs are in place simply because Trump romanticizes the late 1800s and thinks we can finance government spending with tariff revenue, then we are doomed.

This rhetoric from Trump has a great deal in common with Bernie Sanders' anti-capitalist worldview. Between the tariffs, the increasingly progressive income taxes, the incompetent attempt to cut government spending, and the explicit anti-materialism, Trump is off to a bad start with capitalists.

In the past, those with a desire for free-ish markets would generally vote Republican. At least in the past, the Republicans were pro-growth. What does it mean when both major political parties are anti-growth and anti-materialism? What does it mean when the political apparatus of a country is wholly aligned for it to fail? I would not get too comfortable in those stock index funds.

The post Trump's 'They Can Have 5' Moment is an Attack on Capitalism appeared first on Reason.com.
The destructive economic impact of tariffs is plain enough. At last count, over 1,800 economists have signed a letter denouncing the Trump administration's protectionism for imposing "the largest tax increase on trade in almost a century." But when trade barriers are imposed on media, they don't block just the flow of goods and money, but also of ideas. Unfortunately, that's exactly what one of President Donald Trump's latest brainstorms threatens to do.

Is Foreign Film Production a National Security Threat?

"The Movie Industry in America is DYING a very fast death," Trump posted on Truth Social. "Other Countries are offering all sorts of incentives to draw our filmmakers and studios away from the United States. Hollywood, and many other areas within the U.S.A., are being devastated. This is a concerted effort by other Nations and, therefore, a National Security threat. It is, in addition to everything else, messaging and propaganda!"

To remedy that "national security threat," he announced "a 100% Tariff on any and all Movies coming into our Country that are produced in Foreign Lands."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

First, let's take a moment to be surprised that Donald Trump would want to extend any sort of support to Hollywood. The movie industry is famously nearly monolithic in its leftward politics and its hatred of Donald Trump. In shielding the industry from competition, he's helping his enemies.

"Donald Trump's decisive presidential victory shocked Hollywood as actors, celebrities and media personalities took to social media late Tuesday and early Wednesday to share their feelings of hurt and dismay," Variety's Brent Lang wrote after the November election.

Tariffs on movies produced overseas might drive Hollywood to film more intensively in the United States, but it also makes it more difficult and expensive for American audiences to see movies made by foreign companies. Films from South Korea, India, Europe, and elsewhere compete with the U.S. film industry in terms of culture, ideas, and sometimes politics. Tariffs on overseas productions could effectively trap us with the products of Hollywood and reduce its need to adjust to the tastes of the viewing public.

The monolithic nature of the film industry's dominant ideology (isn't that the sort of "messaging and propaganda" that concerns Trump?) isn't the only whiff of staleness coming from Hollywood. The major companies are risk-averse when it comes to creativity. Instead of innovating, they sink hundreds of millions of dollars into cinematically photocopying the same half-dozen ideas over and over until what hits the screen are expensive and faded reproductions of something that was interesting decades ago.

Hollywood Needs Competition So Very Much

That's why competition is welcome, whether it's independent mumblecore films, A24 productions, Angel Studios, or something else. Sometimes clunky, weird, or just bad, at least they're different and frequently interesting. The same can be said of foreign films.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Parasite and its South Korean director Bong Joon Ho get a lot of love from film geeks, and good for them for finding something they like. (Trump, notably, didn't care for it.) I prefer my films a little more shooty, so I'm partial to Kesari, a 2019 Indian film about a real-life last stand battle in 1897 between 21 Sikh soldiers of the British Indian Army and thousands of Pashtuns. It wonderfully combines explosive combat scenes with Bollywood's signature song-and-dance numbers. Describing it as a cross between Zulu and Singin' in the Rain doesn't do it justice, so just see it for yourself. Or don't. The world should have room for all tastes.

But there's less ability to satisfy a range of tastes when governments raise trade barriers to the import of movies produced in other countries. Will tariffs drive American production companies to film fewer movies in Toronto or Tunisia and instead film those scripts with their Hollywood-acceptable ideas and mostly rewarmed scripts in the United States? Quite possibly. But those tariffs will raise even higher hurdles to movies that originate overseas, are financed with lower budgets, and must necessarily for budgetary, cultural, and language reasons be produced in their home countries. Americans may never get to see them; they may not even be created if access to U.S. audiences becomes economically prohibitive. That could be an especially big deal for the overseas productions that have found new life through streaming services.

In Business Insider, James Faris and Lucia Moses write of the tariffs that "Netflix could limit the impact by shifting production to the US, cutting down US access to foreign-made content on the service, and raising prices to cover higher production costs."

They add that the tariffs could also hurt domestic independent producers because "global outsourcing helped indie production companies that have less access to financing. Film financing is tenuous, so higher costs could mean fewer films getting made."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To the extent that anybody benefits, it's likely to be the established mainstream domestic film industry. But production costs will go up for them, too, if they have to pay American prices for everythingincluding simulating settings in other countries. So, they'll probably play it safe, taking even fewer risks and creating even more of the tried-and-true products they've been knocking out in recent years. That means less pressure to experiment with new plots or to make any attempt to satisfy the audience's appetite for ideas that interest the diverse members of the public rather than just the accepted wisdom of name-brand actors and directors.

Locked in a Room With Disney

In some ways, Trump's tariff scheme for movies perfectly encapsulates what's so bad about protectionism. In "protecting" a domestic industry, it softens incentives for homegrown producers to innovate, to be efficient, and to satisfy their customers. That's bad enough with cars and toys. With barriers against creative media like movies, we also get restrictions on competing ideas.

Trump's vision of the movie industry he'll craft with 100-percent tariffs that constitute a barricade against the creative visions of filmmakers from outside Hollywood looks an awful lot like locking American viewers in a room with the Walt Disney Company. Forever.

In fact, tariffs on movies emulate the worst practices of authoritarian countries like China, which augment overt censorship with, as Variety's Rebecca Davis noted in 2022, "protectionist policies limiting the import of foreign content."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump talks of sheltering the American film industry, but his protectionism is un-American.

The post Trump's Foreign Film Tariffs Could Stick Us With Nothing but Disney Movies appeared first on Reason.com.
On Monday, Trump administration officials asked a federal judge to throw out a lawsuit from several red states seeking to restrict the sale of the abortion drug mifepristone. The Justice Department's rationale closely mirrored arguments made earlier by the Biden administration, indicating that while Trump has sought to radically diverge from Biden-era priorities, abortion restrictions may not be one of them.

In 2022, anti-abortion groups sued to challenge a decision by the Food and Drug Administration allowing the drug to be prescribed via telehealth and sent by mail. The original suit argued that mifepristonewhich is usually prescribed to induce an abortion in conjunction with the drug misoprostolisn't safe and that allowing the drug to be mailed violates a 19th century anti-obscenity law.

Ligation in the case has been ongoing ever since and has now spanned multiple presidential administrations. Biden administration officials pushed back against the suit primarily by arguing that the plaintiffs lacked standing. In a 2023 legal filing, Biden administration lawyers wrote that "plaintiffs ask this Court to upend that longstanding scientific determination based on speculative allegations of harm offered in support of claims and arguments that are untimely, unexhausted, and without merit." In 2024, the Supreme Court rejected the lawsuit, but Missouri, Kansas, and Idaho have since asked to revive the suit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lawyers for President Donald Trump's Justice Department have taken a similar posture to their predecessors. In a court filing on Monday, Justice Department lawyers arguedsimilarly to the 2024 Supreme Court decisionthat the states had no standing to bring a challenge to the FDA's policy.

"The States cannot keep alive a lawsuit in which the original plaintiffs were held to lack standing, those plaintiffs have now voluntarily dismissed their claims, and the States' own claims have no connection to this District," reads the filing. "The States are free to pursue their claims in a District where venue is properbut the States' claims before this Court must be dismissed or transferred pursuant to the venue statute's mandatory command."

This most recent Justice Department filing shied away from making affirmative arguments for maintaining access to the abortion drug, instead focusing on apparent procedural problems with the states' claims. The Trump administration's willingness to stand by Biden-era attempts to increase abortion access indicates that Trump may be more moderate on abortion than many of his supporters have hoped.

Trump's position on abortion has been sporadic over the past few years. He praised the Supreme Court's decision overturning Roe v. Wade in 2022, and in June 2023, he said that he would be "the most pro-life President" in American history. However, he also appeared to moderate during the 2024 election cycle. In a January 2024 town hall, he said, "We're living in a time when there has to be a little bit of a concession one way or the other" on the issue. Later that year, the Republican Party removed support for a national abortion ban from its platform.

The post Trump's Justice Department Just Defended Telehealth Abortion appeared first on Reason.com.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff will informally brief members of the United Nations Security Council on Wednesday on Gaza and other regional issues, a U.S. administration official said.

The briefing, to which a diplomatic source said all 15 members of the Security Council have been invited, would take place at the U.S. mission to the United Nations, the administration official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Axios, which first reported the news, said Witkoff is expected to brief on U.S. policy regarding the war in Gaza and nuclear talks with Iran. It said he was expected to focus primarily on Gaza and on a new aid mechanism proposed by Israel and the U.S.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Israel has so far given few details about the new mechanism. European leaders and aid groups have criticised Israel's plans to take over distribution of humanitarian aid in Gaza and use private companies to get food to families after two months in which the military has prevented supplies entering the Strip.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday an expanded offensive against Palestinian militant group Hamas would be "intensive," after his security cabinet approved plans that may include seizing the Gaza Strip and controlling aid.

On Monday, Jan Egeland, secretary-general of the Norwegian Refugee Council, said on X that Israel was demanding that the U.N. and non-governmental organizations shut down their aid distribution system in Gaza.

(Reporting by David Brunnstrom, editing by Deepa Babington)
There are several recent changes to air travel Wisconsinites should be aware of before they take their next flight.

First off, after years of delays, Real ID is here. The Transportation Security Administration also recently banned a commonly used item from checked bags.

Here's what to know:

What items did TSA ban from checked bags?

Portable chargers and power banks powered by lithium-ion batteries are now only allowed in carry-on bags, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. These bags must be kept in the aircraft cabin with the passenger.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

All lithium batteries are capable of overheating, thus posing a fire risk. The FAA says passengers are urged to immediately notify flight crews in cases of a lithium battery fires, as crews are trained to respond to them.

Items that commonly use lithium batteries include:

Power banks

Cellphone battery charging cases

Rechargeable and non-rechargeable lithium batteries

Cellphone batteries

Laptop batteries

External batteries

Portable rechargers

The FAA has also size limits for these batteries, you can find a calculator on the administration's website.

Where can I see a full list of TSA banned items?

You can visit the TSA's "What Can I Bring?" webpage for a directory of prohibited items. It allows you to search for items, learn about penalties and provides options to contact TSA if something is not listed.

How can I get a Real ID in Wisconsin?

You have to go to your local DMV to get a Real ID. You can visit the DMV's website at dlguides.wi.gov to start filling on the necessary forms.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A Real ID cannot be obtained online.

More: You have a week left to get a Real ID in Wisconsin. What happens if you miss the deadline

Alex Groth and Maia Pandey contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Traveling for Memorial Day? TSA banned this item from checked bags
By Nate Raymond

(Reuters) -A federal appeals court has ordered President Donald Trump's administration to transfer a Turkish student at Tufts University to Vermont for a bail hearing from Louisiana, where she is being detained by immigration authorities after engaging in pro-Palestinian advocacy on campus.

Wednesday's ruling by the New York-based 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals marked a victory for Rumeysa Ozturk, and brought her a step closer to a hearing at which a judge could decide to order her release after six weeks in custody.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Her case has become a high-profile example of the Republican president's efforts to deport pro-Palestinian activists on U.S. campuses who have spoken out against Israel's war in Gaza.

A three-judge panel rejected the administration's request to pause a judge's April 18 order requiring Ozturk to be transferred to Vermont so she could be available for a bail hearing and proceedings in the legal challenge to her detention.

"We're grateful the court refused the government's attempt to keep her isolated from her community and her legal counsel as she pursues her case for release," said Esha Bhandari, a lawyer for Ozturk at the American Civil Liberties Union.

U.S. District Judge William Sessions in Burlington had previously scheduled the bail hearing for Friday, but the 2nd Circuit gave the administration until May 14 to transfer Ozturk to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Vermont, which could result in bail proceedings being postponed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The administration could potentially ask the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene. A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which oversees ICE, stressed that the ruling "does not prevent the continued detention of Ms. Ozturk."

Tricia McLaughlin, the spokesperson, in a statement said the department "will continue to fight for the arrest, detention, and removal of aliens who have no right to be in this country."

Ozturk, a PhD student and Fulbright scholar, was arrested on a street in the Boston suburb of Somerville on March 25 after the U.S. State Department revoked her student visa, citing an op-ed she co-authored in Tufts' student newspaper last year.

That opinion piece criticized the school's response to calls by students to divest from companies with ties to Israel after the onset of the war in Gaza, and to "acknowledge the Palestinian genocide."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Her arrest by masked agents was captured in a viral video and prompted immediate litigation. Her lawyers called her detention unlawful and a violation of her free speech rights under the U.S. Constitution's First Amendment.

She was sent to Louisiana the day after her arrest, after being briefly held in Vermont.

A lawsuit filed in Boston was later transferred to Vermont, where she was being held when the case was filed, over the objections of the Trump administration, which argued she could only challenge her detention where she was today being detained, Louisiana.

Requiring her to litigate in Louisiana would mean any appeals in her case would be heard by the most conservative federal appeals court nationally, and her lawyers have argued the administration moved her to engage in "forum shopping."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The administration told the 2nd Circuit that Congress had made clear that any challenges to government deportation decisions must proceed in immigration court, rather than federal district court like the one Ozturk will attend in Vermont.

But the panel in Wednesday's decision rejected the venue arguments and said Ozturk's legal challenge concerned only her arrest and detention. The court said her lawsuit could be resolved without affecting the immigration proceedings.

"She asserts that the government arrested and detained her to prevent speech with which it disagrees," the panel said. "Such an act would be a violation of the Constitution - quite separate from the removal procedures followed by the immigration courts."

(Reporting by Nate Raymond in Boston; Editing by David Bario, Nia Williams and Aurora Ellis)
Donald Trumps quest to conquer Greenland is becoming increasingly serious.

The intelligence community directed intelligence agency chiefs to conduct a spy campaign on the Denmark-controlled island territory last week, issuing a collection emphasis message for information pertaining to Greenlands independence movement, as well as an examination of local attitudes regarding American resource extraction, reported The Wall Street Journal. It also tasked agencies to identify individuals living in Greenland and Denmark who support the Trump administrations goals for the island.

The directive came from several high-ranking officials under Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, according to the paper, but Gabbard was not happy to hear that the news of the initiative had gotten out.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Wall Street Journal should be ashamed of aiding deep state actors who seek to undermine the President by politicizing and leaking classified information, Gabbard told the Journal in a statement. They are breaking the law and undermining our nations security and democracy.

The Greenland order, which went out to multiple departments including the Central Intelligence Agency, the Defense Intelligence Agency, and the National Security Agency, is the first tangible step the Trump administration has made to satiate the presidents desire to own the self-governing island.

One intelligence official explained to the Journal that because collection resources are inherently limited, they are typically used for perceived threats, not allied countries.

The order is just another reminder that American voters should take Donald Trump at his word. In an interview with NBC News that aired Sunday, Trump refused to rule out the possibility of taking Greenland by force.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I dont rule it out, the president said. I dont say Im going to do it, but I dont rule out anything. No, not there. We need Greenland very badly. Greenland is a very small amount of people, which well take care of, and well cherish them, and all of that. But we need that for international security.

The White House National Security Council has met several times to make Trumps desires for the arctic island a reality, The New York Times reported in early April. At the time, a U.S. official claimed the council had sent specific instructions to multiple arms of the government. But those instructions never specified the use of military force.

Another effort by the Trump administration to win over Greenland involves using federal dollars on advertising and social media campaigns with hopes of persuading Greenlands 57,000 residents to basically annex themselves for America.

But Greenlanders have not taken kindly to Trump and his associates sudden interest in acquiring their land. After months of heavy pressure from the Trump family, including an embarrassing stunt in which Donald Trump Jr. reportedly convinced homeless residents to wear MAGA merchandise in exchange for food, and an effort in the U.S. Congress to rename the territory Red, White, and Blueland, Greenlands various political parties set aside their differences in March to unite under a singular goal: opposing U.S. aggression.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We dont want to be Americans. No, we dont want to be Danes. We want to be Greenlanders, and we want our own independence in the future, Demokraatit Party leader Jens-Frederik Nielsen told Sky News the night his party won a decisive majority in Parliament, making him prime minister. And we want to build our own country by ourselves.

A late-January poll by pollster Verian found that 85 percent of Greenlands residents do not want to become part of the United States. Just 6 percent were in favor of the switch, while 8 percent were undecided, according to The Guardian.

That disinterest became more apparent in late March, when second lady Usha Vances trip around Greenland was gutted and canceled after American representatives were spotted walking around Nuuk, the islands capital, failing to find residents who would be interested in a visit from the vice presidents wife.

But none of that has squashed Trumps interest. In a meeting in March with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump claimed that the U.S. needs Greenland for international security, reasoning that the whole area is becoming very important because there are ships all over the place.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

So, were going to have to make a deal on that, and Denmark is not able to do that, and you know, Denmark is very far away, and really has nothing to do. What happened? A boat landed there 200 years ago or something and they say they have rights to it, I dont know if thats true, I dont think it is, actually, the apparent anti-colonialist activist said at the time.

In an address to Congress in March, Trump clarified his intention: One way or the other, were going to get it.
Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard used the same password across separate online accounts for years, according to a new report.

Before becoming the head of the intelligence community, Gabbard used the same password for multiple email addresses and online accounts while she served in Congress, including while working on the House Committees for Armed Services and Homeland Security, Wired reported. The revelation suggests Gabbard, who now oversees 18 intelligence organizations, was not adhering to simple online security best practices for years.

The report comes months after it was disclosed that she was one of the Trump officials involved in the so-called Signalgate group chat in which U.S. military strikes on Houthi rebels in Yemen were discussed. Signal is not approved by the Pentagon for discussion of sensitive information.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Independent has reached out to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence for comment.

Gabbard served as a Democratic congresswoman of Hawaii from 2013 through 2021. She appeared to have used the same password from 2012 through 2018 for her Gmail, MyFitnessPal, LinkedIn and other personal accounts, tranches of breached records published within the period show, Wired reported. This password does not appear to have been used with her government accounts.

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency recommends using long, random and unique passwords on all personal and business accounts, stressing that each password should be used for one and only one account.

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard reportedly used the same password for her personal accounts for years while she served in Congress (AP)

The password includes the word shraddha  a term that has come up in previous reporting related to Gabbards alleged involvement with a cult: the Science of Identity Foundation, an off-shoot of the Hare Krishna movement in which Gabbard was raised, the Wall Street Journal reported in January.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Former Science of Identity followers told the Journal they believed that Gabbard had been initiated and given the name Shraddha Dasi.

After the Journal reported Gabbards link to the group, her team accused the newspaper of spreading Hinduphobic smears and other lies. But this week, Gabbard spokesperson Oliva Coleman denied the association with the Science of Identity and noted that any data breaches occurred ages ago.

The data breaches youre referring to occurred almost 10 years ago, and the passwords have changed multiple times since, Coleman told Wired.

As our deputy chief of staff has already made clear on a number of occasions, the DNI has never and doesnt have affiliation with that organization. Attempting to smear the DNI as being in a cult is bigoted behavior, she added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gabbards chief of staff also doubled down on the denial of her association with the group, telling the outlet: Your bigoted lies and smears of a cabinet member and your story fomenting hinduphobia is noted.

When grilled by Congress about her participation in the Signal group chat, she refused to say whether she used the app on her personal phone.

I wont speak to this because its under review by the National Security Council, Gabbard said. She insisted that no classified material was shared in the chat.
CHICAGO (WGN)In Chicagos Edison Park, Midwesterners came together on Tuesday in the spirit of family, friendship, and first responders.

Many watched the events of September 11, 2001 live on television, as some witnessed the tragedy in person. One of those people was Stephen Siller, whose story may be familiar to some. For Aric Grooms, it was inspiration.

MORE FROM WGNS BRONAGH TUMULTY: Jason House sworn in as Dolton mayor, marking end of Tiffany Henyard era

Stephen Siller

Began after 9/11, after Stephen Siller died in the South Tower of the World Trade Center when it collapsed, said Grooms, who is the senior director of development for the Tunnel to Towers foundation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Siller, a New York City firefighter, had already completed his shift when he grabbed his gear and ran from Brooklyn through the tunnel to the Twin Towers in lower Manhattan to help.

Sadly, Siller lost his life that day, but his memory carried on, as his brother Frank and their siblings set up the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in his honor. As such, the foundation annually provides mortgage-free homes to Gold Star families, building some from scratch, while renovating others.

So many from across the Midwest gathered on Tuesday to take part in an event thanking sponsors and donors for their support throughout the years.

Anyone interested in donating to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation may click here: https://t2t.org/

Jeremy Ramirez, who was permanently disabled in 2008 during an ambush while deployed in Iraq, is among those grateful for the work of the Tunnels to Towers Foundation. One day before his venture to Chicago, the foundation began remodelling his Lansing, Michigan, area home.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Everything is going to be smart, Ramirez said. Ill be able to control everything with my phone. My lights, HVAC, air, blinds, and appliances. Theyre gonna put surround sound in the roof.

The military veteran added that work should be wrapped up in a couple of weeks. Ramirez notes that the foundation will also pay off his mortgage, which will be a huge relief to him and his family.

Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines

Its going to make me independent and for men and women like myself, they take care of everybody, Ramirez said of the Tunnel to Towers foundation.

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.
ANKARA, Turkey (AP)  Turkeys top court on Wednesday rejected a request to annul a contentious law designed to remove millions of stray dogs from the streets, which critics said could lead to mass killings of the animals.

The main opposition party had sought the overturn of the legislation that was enacted last year, arguing that it violated animal rights and the right to life.

The Constitutional Court however, has ruled that the provisions are legally valid and for it to continue to be implemented.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dozens of animal rights activists had gathered near the Constitutional Court to press the court to repeal the law, holding up posters reading cancel the blood-ridden law and shouting anti-government slogans.

The government has estimated that some 4 million stray dogs roam Turkeys cities and countryside. While many of the dogs are harmless, the government moved to tighten legislation on stray animals, following incidents of dog attacks, including cases involving children.

The law requires municipalities to round up stray dogs and relocate them into shelters where they would be vaccinated, neutered and spayed before making them available for adoption. Dogs that are in pain, terminally ill or pose a health risk to humans would be euthanized.

Animal-lovers had strongly opposed the law, fearing it would lead to widespread culling or dogs ending up in disease-ridden and overcrowded shelters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They raised concerns about how financially-strained municipalities would secure funding to construct the additional shelters. They fear that, instead of allocating resources to care for the stray dogs, some municipalities may resort to euthanizing them under the pretext of illness.

Many animal rights advocates have also claimed that many street animals were indiscriminately killed after the passage of the law.

The court ruling is likely to increase pressure on municipalities to enforce the law.
NIAGARA FALLS  A grassroots effort to reawaken the building commonly known as "The Turtle" in downtown Niagara Falls has picked up support from a 75-year-old nationwide preservation organization that specializes in saving unique places across America.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation announced Wednesday that it has named the turtle-shaped former Native American Center for the Living Arts building to its 2025 list of Americas 11 Most Endangered Historic Places.

The group's designation describes the Turtle as a "powerful symbol of Indigenous heritage," while noting, "Unfortunately, the building has been vacant for almost 30 years, and the owner previously shared plans for demolition. A coalition has formed in hopes of 'reawakening' the Turtle once again."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sites are selected by the trust based on historical significance, architectural importance and severity of threat faced. Placement on the list can help raise awareness about a site, which can help mobilize financing and support for local preservation efforts.

As we approach the 250th anniversary of the United States, we must acknowledge and support the Indigenous history that has so often been hidden and forgotten," said Carol Quillen, president and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. "The plans to reawaken the Turtle would provide exactly the celebration of tribal heritage and culture that we need more than ever.

Di Gao, senior director of research and development for the National Trust, joined members of the local group, Friends of the Niagara Turtle, in formally announcing the building's designation during a press conference on Wednesday at Cataract House Park across the street from the former Native American arts center in downtown Niagara Falls.

She likened the designation to "an act of hope" aimed at spurring wider interest in the effort to preserve and reopen the Turtle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Over it's four decades of existence, the list has become a highly effective tool for sharing the stories of some our nation's most captivating sites and galvanizing public support for over 350 places and we're proud to say, after they've been included on this list, only a handful have been lost," Gao said.

Opened in 1981 as a center for celebrating Native American arts, the Turtle building has been closed and vacant since 1995. Northern Arapaho architect Dennis Sun Rhodes designed the building in the shape of a turtle to honor the Haudenosaunee creation story that the Earth was built on the back of a Great Turtle. The three-story, 67,000-square-foot building, located at 25 Rainbow Blvd., features a geodesic dome roof "shell" and large porthole "eye" windows.

"The Turtle is a powerful symbol of Indigenous heritage and was once a hub for fostering education, cultural preservation and community healing," Gao said. "We've included the Turtle on the endangered list because it has now been vacant for nearly 30 years and is not yet a locally designated landmark. Yet these walls hold community memories and promise for future generations."

The building is currently owned by the private company, Niagara Falls Redevelopment, which previously opposed efforts to have the building designated by the city as a local landmark.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

NFR officials released a statement Wednesday, "While we respect the work of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, we believe the local Niagara Falls community has already spoken on this issue through their elected representatives in rejecting historic landmark status just last year. ... We have always been open to working with the indigenous community in Niagara Falls on cultural preservation efforts, and remain so. Yet no group has ever stepped forward with a serious, financially viable proposal for the successful operation of the Turtle."

The local non-profit group Friends of the Turtle was formed in the wake of the Niagara Falls City Council's decision to reject a request by the city's Historic Preservation Commission to have the building designated as a local landmark. The Friends are receiving support to "reawaken" the Turtle from Preservation Buffalo Niagara, a local group that works to preserve historic and culturally significant sites across Western New York.

Supporters of the preservation effort say the building embodies the self-determination and preservation of the Haudenosaunee who, in the mid-1970s, embarked on the Turtle's construction as part of an effort to preserve their arts and culture after the negative impact of the Indian boarding schools and centuries of the United States Government controlling nearly every aspect of tribal life.

They also view the building as a prime and exceedingly rare example of a cross between Postmodern and Indigenous architecture. Preservationists say the building's design blends Postmodern approaches to anthropomorphism in conjunction with meaningful Haudenosaunee symbols and practices embodied in the function and form of the building.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Friends members say their coalition includes more than 1,000 Indigenous and non-Indigenous people and that they have engaged extensively with the Haudenosaunee Nations and other Indigenous communities who are interested in revitalizing the building as a cultural resource. Plans for the building could include re-establishing it as a cultural center offering exhibitions, dance and music performances, and educational experiences highlighting Native American heritage, culture, and languages.

Shaun Wilson, a member of the Mohawk and Turtle Clan who serves as the chairman of the board for the Friends of the Niagara Turtle, said he believes the Turtle could come alive and thrive once again as a center for celebrating Indigenous culture and arts, partly because times have changed a lot since the building closed in 1981.

Wilson believes a new group of operators would greatly benefit from something the earlier operators did not have: Access to the world through marketing and promotion on the internet. He said he believes operators of the building would be in a much better position today to attract visitors and support for an Indigenous cultural center inside a unique building that would be unlike any other attraction of its kind, not just in New York but in the U.S.

"I think, historically, the Turtle was, looking back on it, it probably could have been welcomed by the community more," he said. "It was a different time when it did operate. It was the first building of its kind and something like this here in New York state could have the Indigenous community re-learning its culture in this building. We have the community today that could operate this building."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Wilson said his group is working with local architect John Baptiste from Anowara Architecture as it moves forward with the preservation initiative. He said a key step in the process will likely involve a walk-through that would allow for a closer examination of the building's condition, which Wilson said Friends of the Turtle members have been unable to do to date.

While he acknowledged the potential cost of renovation may be high, Wilson said Friends members are hoping that by increasing the public's understanding of the significance of the Turtle, they will be able to put together a "viable" plan that the building's owners have said no one has been able to produce.

"We had to start somewhere, so we started with community awareness and that there's potential to save the building," Wilson said.
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  The former Native American Heritage Center in Niagara Falls, commonly referred to as The Turtle, was named among the most endangered historic places in the country by the National Trust for Historic Preservation on Wednesday.

The building on Rainbow Boulevard has been vacant since 1995 after it closed due to financial troubles. It was purchased and remains in the position of Niagara Falls Redevelopment, LLC, which once had plans to turn the property into a high-rise hotel.

In the meantime, local preservationists have attempted to get the vacant building under landmark status. The Niagara Falls Historic Preservation Committee recommended to the city in February 2024 that the building get that landmark status, but it was denied the following month.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It must be maintained and cant be demolished or altered without permission from the preservation committee with landmark status.

We believe in the power of place, said Di Gao, the senior director and research for the National Trust. That preservation of places that matter to communities allows us to honor the stories, events, people and places that define us.

Land dispute slows Niagara Falls effort to attract junior hockey league team

The 67,000 square foot building was built in 1981. Its unique shape with a roof shell and large porthole eye windows became iconic in the area and invoking the Haudenosaunee creation story of the earth forming on the back of a giant turtle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Turtle is a prime example between post-modern and indigenous architecture. It is unique in the world, Shaun Wilson, board chair of Friends of the Niagara Turtle, said.

The list released Wednesday by the National Trust for Historic Preservation contains 11 of the sites in the United States considered most endangered. It includes another New York State site in the Catskills region as well as sites in Florida, North Carolina, Michigan, Arizona, Oregon, Virginia, Texas and California.

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.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
TAZEWELL, Tenn. (WATE)  Two people pleaded guilty in the 2022 death of a 3-year-old child on Wednesday and received lengthy prison sentences.

Aaron Smith pleaded guilty in Claiborne County Criminal Court to first degree murder, especially aggravated kidnapping, and aggravated assault. He received a life sentence plus six consecutive years. Alexis Payne pled guilty to aggravated child neglect and received a 20-year sentence that must be served in its entirety.

Monroe County deputies searching for armed and dangerous man

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They were charged after New Tazewell police responded to a home on Heritage Road to assist with a 3-year-old boy who was choking. The child was taken taken to East Tennessee Childrens Hospital and died days later. Following an autopsy, the death was ruled a homicide.

Smith, the childs father, told investigators that the child had fallen and was found unresponsive. The investigation determined that the injuries were not consistent with a single fall. Investigators found that the child had only been in the care of Smith and his live-in girlfriend at the time, Alexis Payne.

Man charged with vehicular homicide after fatal crash on Millertown Pike

A release from Eighth Judicial District Attorney General Jared Effler said the plea agreements were reached following extensive consultation with the victims mother and all involved law enforcement agencies.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
A man and a woman were arrested in the early morning hours when a trooper allegedly found them half-dressed in a vehicle that was blocking the parking lot to the state police barracks in Hartford.

The vehicle was spotted at 12:31 a.m. when a trooper assigned to the barracks tried pulling into the lot but was blocked by a white Porsche Macan SUV, according to Connecticut State Police. The vehicle was reportedly parked just beyond a sign that states Restricted Area No Trespassing Beyond This Point, state police said.

The trooper approached the vehicle and found two people partially undressed inside engaged in lewd activities, according to state police. A man was in the driver seat and a woman was in the passenger seat.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

State police said both individuals were asked to compose themselves before they were instructed to get out of the vehicle. Additional troopers responded to the scene.

The driver was identified as 34-year-old Willie Ferrell of Bloomfield and the passenger was identified as 48-year-old Diandra Lysik, according to state police. Ferrell, state police said, allegedly showed clear signs of impairment and failed field sobriety testing.

When troopers spoke to Lysik, she claimed Ferrell had picked her up. While state police said she did not make a direct admission of a transaction, troopers allegedly found three loose $10 bills in the top area of her purse that appeared to have just been put there. She later allegedly admitted that she engages in sex work, state police said.

Ferrell and Lysik were arrested and escorted into the barracks. Inside Lysiks purse, state police alleged that they found wax folds with a powdery substance inside that tested positive for fentanyl and a white rock-like substance which tested positive as crack cocaine.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lysik is charged with use of drug paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance, third-degree criminal trespassing and soliciting sexual acts/exchange for sexual conduct. She was held on a $1,000 bond and was expected to appear in Hartford Superior Court on Tuesday.

Ferrell faces charges of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, improper parking, third-degree criminal trespassing and soliciting sexual acts/exchange for sexual conduct. He was released on a $10,000 bond and is scheduled to appear before a judge on May 30.
The State Emergency Service of Ukraine has reported that two people have been killed and eight injured in a Russian attack on the city of Kyiv on the morning of 7 May, including four children.

Source: State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SES); Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko

Quote from the SES: "Rescue workers have been responding in the Sviatoshynskyi, Solomianskyi, Shevchenkivskyi and Dniprovskyi districts."

Firefighters extinguishing fire

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Photo: State Emergency Service of Ukraine

Details: Debris struck a nine-storey building in the Sviatoshynskyi district. Apartments on the fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth floors caught fire. A fire which spread over an area of 100 sq m was extinguished.

Quote from the SES: "Five people were rescued  one adult and four children (three children with burns have been hospitalised). Rescue operations are ongoing."

Fire appliance and firefighters at the scene

Photo: State Emergency Service of Ukraine

Details: Drone debris fell in an open area in the Solomianskyi district.

A drone crashed into a high-rise building in the Dniprovskyi district, causing partial destruction to the floor slabs on the 28th and 29th floors.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The State Emergency Service said no fire or casualties had been recorded.

Firefighter on a crane extinguishing fire

Photo: State Emergency Service of Ukraine

Debris from a drone fell on a five-storey building in the Shevchenkivskyi district. Apartments on the second and fourth floors caught fire.

Quote: "The bodies of two people have been found during firefighting operations. The fire has been extinguished."

Firefighter extinguishing fire

Photo: State Emergency Service of Ukraine

Updated: Later, Klitschko reported that the number of injured in the capital had risen to eight.

"Another woman has been hospitalised. Earlier, three children were hospitalised. This means that four injured people have now been taken to hospital. Four others received medical treatment at the scene. Two residents of the capital were killed as a result of the enemy attack," he concluded.

Apartments on fire

Photo: State Emergency Service of Ukraine

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
SPINDALE, N.C. (WSPA)  Two people were shot late Tuesday night in Spindale.

The shooting happened along Oakland Road around 11 p.m.

According to the Spindale Police Department, two men were injured in the shooting. One victim was taken to a hospital in Rutherfordton by personal vehicle while the other was taken by ambulance to Spartanburg Medical Center.

Investigators said 14 shots were fired, hitting the two men along with vehicles and buildings along Oakland Road.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Both victims are in stable condition.

Anyone with information on the shooting is asked to call the Spindale 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 WSPA 7NEWS.
Chipotle Mexican Grill has named former Taco Bell executive Jason Kidd as its new chief operating officer (COO).

Kidd, who will assume the new role on 19 May 2025, will be tasked with managing the operations of approximately 3,800 Chipotle restaurants.

He will report directly to CEO Scott Boatwright at the company's headquarters in Newport Beach in the US state of California.

Kidd was previously global chief operating officer at Taco Bell, and president of Hearing Lab Technology.

He also spent six years at 99 Cents Only Stores, where he became president and chief operating officer, and worked for 20 years at Sam's Club with roles in operations, merchandising, planning and supply chain.

Boatwright said: "Kidd brings proven accomplishments and a wealth of knowledge that will further support our 130,000 team members in our restaurants with delivering exceptional hospitality to our guests. His vast operational experience at large-scale multi-unit retail will bring a strong foundation and new strategic thinking to our executive team."

Kidd added: "I am grateful for the opportunity to join Chipotle's world-class leadership team and look forward to further enhancing experiences for our team members and guests. Chipotle's current efforts to build a guest obsessed culture and modernise the back of house are exciting, and I believe there's tremendous growth ahead for this incredible brand."

Chipotle president and chief strategy officer Jack Hartung is preparing to step down on 1 June after almost 25 years with the company.

Hartung, who has been with Chipotle since 2002, will transition to a senior advisory role next month until his retirement in March 2026.

As part of the executive shuffle, Curt Garner, chief customer and technology officer, will take on additional responsibilities, overseeing supply chain as the president, chief strategy and technology officer.

Chris Brandt, chief brand officer, will head a cross-functional team focused on menu and ingredient processes as president and chief brand officer.

"Chipotle Mexican Grill appoints Jason Kidd as COO" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand.




Theres only one way to explain it. Last Friday, after Labours electoral drubbing, Sir Keir Starmer must have held an emergency meeting of his most senior ministers. And this is how it must have gone.

Team, yesterdays results were a disaster. So, to get back on track, we urgently need to show the British people that were listening to their concerns. Any ideas? Lucy?

How about I go on Radio 4 tonight and imply that anyone who so much as mentions the grooming gangs is a massive racist?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Brilliant. And then, to make us even more popular, Ill immediately leap to your defence, and refuse to sack you. Wes?

How about I do an interview hinting that were going to reinstate the winter fuel allowance  only for you to make pensioners even angrier than they were already by telling them youll do no such thing?

Excellent. Should go down a treat. Any more?

Well, Prime Minister, we all know that voters are supremely relaxed about mass immigration. So how about we encourage even more of it, by signing a deal that will allow migrant workers from India to dodge paying National Insurance  unlike the mugs who were unlucky enough to be born here?

Credit: X / Keir_Starmer

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That must be what happened. Its the only explanation. Unless, I suppose, No 10 recently hired a new adviser who looks uncannily like Robert Jenrick wearing an enormous false moustache.

Either way, one things for certain. Last week, Sir Keir told voters: I get it. Yet everything hes done since shows that he most emphatically does not.

He will, of course, insist that the criticism of his Indian trade deal, at the very least, is unfair. At this weeks PMQs, he hotly denied that it will create a two-tier tax system, and accused his opponents of talking incoherent nonsense. Meanwhile Jonathan Reynolds, his Business Secretary, said the NI arrangement will apply only to those Indian workers who are transferring to the British branch of an Indian business  not Indian immigrants in general.

The very fact that this row has erupted at all, however, shows just how clueless Sir Keir and his team are.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Before announcing the deal, they should have though, Voters are extremely concerned about immigration. Theyll worry that this deal will lead to millions of new migrants turning up and undercutting British job applicants. So, before our opponents have a chance to pounce, well explain why that wont be the case.

Yet this plainly didnt occur to them. They simply didnt see the row coming. And thats because, despite their claims to the contrary, they still dont get how strongly most voters feel about immigration.

As a result, theyre now on the back foot, frantically trying to reassure the public that the deal isnt a betrayal of British workers. But its too late. The damage is done.

Britain Indian trade deal struck

Still, no one should be surprised. Time and again, Sir Keir and co have proved that they havent the faintest grasp of how ordinary people think. Which is why they didnt foresee just how furious the public would be over the winter fuel cut, either.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last week, Labour canvassers reported that it was the number-one reason why voters were ditching them. Now, even the Daily Mirror, the devotedly loyal Labour tabloid, has lost patience with the Governments refusal to see sense. MESSAGE TO KEIR, thundered Wednesdays front page. NOT GOOD ENOUGH.

To the Cabinet, that headline will have caused serious alarm. The Mirror turning against a Labour PM is like Pravda turning against Stalin, or the BBC turning against drag queens.

In short: the events of this past week have shown why Sir Keir is on course to follow a record Labour victory with a record Labour defeat. He isnt making difficult-but-necessary decisions. Hes making enormous unforced blunders  and then doubling down, thus making those blunders worse. And if last Thursday hasnt woken him up to the electorates smouldering sense of injustice, nothing will. Two-Tier Keir is making Labours annihilation more certain by the day.

All I can say is: God knows what dazzling new vote-winners he and his team will dream up at their next brainstorming session. Raise the pension age to 103? House asylum seekers in St Pauls Cathedral? Swingeing taxes for Second World War veterans? Life peerage for Shamima Begum?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Well, Sir Keir did promise to go further and faster. And I fear hell be as good as his word.

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.
Two volunteers, including British humanitarian and mine disposal expert Chris Garrett, died in an explosion near the eastern Ukrainian town of Izium, Kharkiv Oblast, the charity Prevail Humanitarian Aid confirmed on May 7.

Shaun Pinner, a former British soldier and Ukrainian marine, posted the news on X on behalf of the charity, where Garrett served as founder and chairman.

Prevail provides support to Ukrainian government agencies with landmine/unexploded ordnance clearance, trauma medical care, and humanitarian assistance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"On May 6, Prevail received the devastating news that our Founder and Chairman, Chris Garrett alongside other team members were severely injured in an incident near Izium," Pinner wrote. "We are still gathering information and working alongside military and police officials to uncover the details."

In a follow-up message, Pinner confirmed that Garrett was among two individuals who had died from injuries sustained in the incident. "It has now been confirmed that two of the three critically injured individuals have sadly passed away. I can confirm that Chris was among those who died," he wrote.

Pinner said further updates would be provided as investigations proceed. "We cant and will not comment during an ongoing investigation," the statement read.

Garrett, 40, from the Isle of Man, was widely known for his high-risk volunteer work removing mines and unexploded ordnance left behind by Russian forces. A former British Army recruit and tree surgeon, he began clearing landmines in Burma in 2014 before volunteering in Ukraine between 2014 and 2017. He later returned just days after Russia's full-scale invasion began in 2022.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a 2022 interview with Radio Free Europe, Garrett described the dangers of his work around Kyiv. He warned of unexploded submunitions from cluster bombs, which can detonate with even the slightest touch.

Garrett's commitment to Ukraine earned him a note of thanks from the National Police of Ukraine. He was tried in absentia by a Russian-controlled court in Donetsk and sentenced to over 14 years in prison on terrorism charges, a verdict he called "a pathetic attempt to smear me by those who have murdered, raped and tortured thousands of civilians in Ukraine," Isle of Man Today reported.

In his final months, Garrett continued to document his work on social media, providing updates and educational content about mine clearance.

Read also: Whos attending Moscows Victory Day parade? The Kremlin has published a guest list ahead of May 9

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
(WFRV)  Two people in Wisconsin were arrested as part of the Department of Justices Operation Restore Justice, a multi-agency effort nationwide to identify and arrest child sex predators.

205 child sexual abuse offenders were arrested and 115 children were rescued nationwide during the five-day, coordinated effort.

Ongoing investigation into distribution of cocaine in Wisconsin leads to 3 search warrants, 1 arrest

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Operation Restore Justice was executed by 55 Federal Bureau of Investigation field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department of Justice Criminal Division and numerous United States Attorneys Offices nationwide.

An official release through the Eastern District of Wisconsins United States Attorneys Office said that two people were arrested and charged in the state during the operation.

Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin Richard G. Frohling released the following statement regarding Operation Restore Justice.

The United States Attorneys Office remains committed to working with the FBI and all federal, state, local and tribal partners to zealously prosecute individuals who produce or distribute child sexual abuse material, engage in online enticement and further child sex trafficking. I commend the efforts of all involved in seeking to hold these offenders accountable and to pursue justice for victims of these devastating offenses. Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin

The following two men were arrested in Wisconsin on separate dates:

April 25, 2025:

44-year-old Troy Schaden was charged with receiving, distributing and possessing child pornography, with a federal court date on May 2. A search warrant at his home was performed on March 5, 2025, and officials seized multiple devices.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The release said that an investigation into the devices revealed that they contained child sexual abuse material that Schaden purchased from somebody in the United Kingdom through the app Telegram.

April 28, 2025:

Victor Vega Rojo, a 49-year-old man, was charged with distributing and possessing child pornography, and he appeared in court on May 2. Records indicated that Vega Rojo has no legal status in the United States and is in custody with Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Court records show that a search warrant at his home resulted in the seizure of multiple devices deemed by a forensic review to contain child sexual abuse material. Vega Rojo allegedly distributed the material via the BitTorrent network and possessed hundreds of images.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The official release provided statements from United States Attorney General Pamela Bondi, and FBI Director Kash Patel.

Statement from Attorney General Bondi:

The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims  especially child victims  and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us. I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate. United States Attorney General Pamela Bondi

Statement from FBI Director Patel:

Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us. Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, were sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children. FBI Director Kash Patel

In addition, FBI Milwaukees Special Agent in Charge, Michael Hensle, said theyre committed to protecting children.

Through Operation Restore Justice and day-to-day operations alongside our local, state and federal law enforcement partners, were dedicated to keeping kids safe in our Wisconsin communities, Special Agent Hensle said via the release.

Wisconsin woman arrested for alleged threats towards Waupun prison employees

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the release, the other arrests included the following:

A state trooper in Minneapolis, Minnesota, who allegedly produced child sexual abuse material while in uniform

A Mexican national in Norfolk, Virginia who is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex

A former police officer in Washington D.C., who allegedly trafficked minors

One of the cases included a California man who was arrested after one of the victims came forward and told FBI agents after an online presentation.

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.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A jury brought in from the Chattanooga area came to a verdict of not guilty Wednesday on all seven criminal charges for three ex-Memphis Police officers accused in Tyre Nichols death in 2023.

NOT GUILTY: Jury reaches verdict for officers in Tyre Nichols death

How did we get here?

The traffic stop that led to Tyre Nichols death happened Jan. 7, 2023, when video shows officers punching and kicking Nichols on the ground near his familys southeast Memphis home. He died in a hospital three days later.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Jan. 20, five Memphis Police officers were fired: Desmond Mills, Emmitt Martin, Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley and Justin Smith.

Dashcam and SkyCop video of the beating was released to the public Jan. 27. The Scorpion Unit the officers were part of was disbanded by MPD the next day.

On Oct. 2, 2024, a federal jury released a mixed verdict for the officers, finding them guilty on some charges and not guilty on others.

The state criminal trial for Bean, Haley and Smith began April 28. The jury began deliberating Tuesday.

Nichols family still has a $550 million civil lawsuit pending against the city of Memphis.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 WREG.com.






Key Takeaway

The U.S. government added two new countries to its "Do Not Travel" list for 2025, bringing the total to 21 nations Americans are advised against visiting. The new countries are North Korea and Burkina Faso, but find the complete list below.







The number of countries that the U.S. Department of State advises travelers to completely avoid has expanded.

The State Department regularly issues and updates its travel advisories to reflect current recommendations for travelers. Recently, both Burkina Faso and North Korea have been added to its Do Not Travel list, bringing the total number of countries the U.S. government recommends travelers avoid to 21.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Do Not Travel, or Level 4, is the most severe of the four levels used by the State Department in its travel advisories. Level 1 recommends travelers should Exercise Normal Precautions, Level 2 indicates travelers should Exercise Increased Caution, and Level 3 recommends Reconsider Travel.

On April 16, the State Department updated Burkina Fasos travel advisory to reflect specific risk to dual nationals. For travelers with dual nationality, local authorities may not recognize your U.S. nationality if you are also a national of Burkina Faso, the travel advisory states. It also draws attention to the risk of terrorism and kidnapping within the country for everyone. Terrorists may attack anywhere with little or no warning and may utilize various tactics including the use of common, commercially available items or the use of kidnapping for ransom.

North Koreas travel advisory, updated on April 29, warns against the risk of arrest and wrongful, long-term detention. Because the U.S. government does not have diplomatic relations with North Korea, it cannot provide direct help to U.S. citizens in North Korea in emergencies, the advisory states. The Government of North Korea has subjected U.S. citizens to arbitrary entry and exit bans, expulsions, arrests, and other actions. The U.S. government cannot guarantee your release.

The other countries with a Level 4 rating are Yemen, Iran, South Sudan, Syria, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Central African Republic, Belarus, Iraq, Ukraine, Venezuela, Haiti, Libya, Somalia, Russia, Burma (Myanmar), Mali, and Sudan.



Read the original article on Travel & Leisure
Between rising fuel costs, labor shortages, technological disruptions, and softer demand, the airline industry is facing a number of challenges at the moment. Still, several U.S. carriers still seem to be delivering when it comes to customer satisfaction.

On Wednesday, the consumer data and analytics gurus at J.D. Power released their annual Customer Satisfaction Survey of U.S. airlines. And the results were most definitely not all doom and gloom.

Related: Troubles Mount at Major Airport Days After Serious Safety Warning

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Though the volume of domestic travel in Q1 of 2025 has seen a decline, and airlines are introducing new fees on everything from seat choices to baggage, passengers seem happier overall. Airlines are heading into this new era from a position of relative strength, according to J.D. Powers report, with overall passenger satisfaction up 6 points (on a 1,000-point scale) from 2024.

Throughout our one-year study period, weve seen a slight decline in both ticket prices and passenger volume, which has helped keep overall passenger satisfaction levels high, according to Michael Taylor, senior managing director of travel, hospitality, retail and customer service at J.D. Power. But its clear that market dynamics are changing and will likely affect passenger experience in the coming weeks and months. Airlines will likely have a tougher year this year, economically, but the key to their longer-term success will be how well they manage economic headwinds without compromising on customer experience.

According to their rankings, which are based on survey responses from 10,224 passengers, JetBlue and Delta Air Lines are battling it out for overall supremacy. While JetBlue ranks highest in First/Business Class cabins, with an overall satisfaction score of 738 out of 1,000, Delta came in secondand not too far behindwith a solid 724 points. In Premium Economy, the results were flipped: Delta topped the list with 717 points, while JetBlue came in second with 699.

When it comes to having a superior experience in the Economy/Basic Economy cabin, Southwest Airlines bested the competition with an overall score of 694. JetBlue came in second with 663 points, followed very closely by Delta with 662.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Related: One of World's Top Airlines Announces Bad News

Of those three airlines, JetBlue and Delta were the only two to earn scores above the segment average in all three categories, as did Alaska Airlines. United, American, and Air Canada each managed to fall below the segment average in all three categories.

As for the lowest ranked airlines? That dubious honor went to Frontier, which earned a satisfaction of just 520, followed by Spirit Airlines with 526, in the Economy/Basic categorythe only segment where they were ranked.

You can read the full results here.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced a series of major changes to veterans benefits.

In a May 5, 2025, press release, the VA announced "a three-pronged approach to eliminate barriers and streamline the process for how eligible survivors and dependents of deceased Veterans and service members apply for and receive VA benefits and services."

The day after these changes unfolded, ProPublica published a major investigation into budget and research cuts at the VA, which it reported were imperiling enrollment in clinical trials. VA officials across the country have warned in emails of impact from cuts, including to a registry tracking cancer, ProPublica reported.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Doctors and other health care providers across the VA have been left scrambling and short-staffed amid an ever-shifting series of cuts, hiring freezes and other edicts" from the White House, ProPublica reported.

In March, PBS, citing an internal memo obtained by the Associated Press, reported that The Department of Veterans Affairs is "planning an 'aggressive' reorganization that includes cutting 80,000 jobs."

However, in an April 29, 2025, press release, the VA wrote that its changes at the agency were designed to "refocus the department on its core mission" to provide better services to veterans and their families.

That press release said the VA had opened "six new health are clinics around the nation," brought "thousands of employees off of remote work," shifted treatment funds to helping paralyzed veterans and amputees, processed a "record number of disability claims," accelerated a near-dormant electronic health record system, and redirected hundreds of millions of dollars from "non-mission-critical efforts to health care, benefits and services that directly support VA beneficiaries' families."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On May 5, the VA's release outlined these changes:

Starting this month, the VAs Office of Survivors Assistance will move to the Office of the VA Secretary in an attempt to remove the office from "layers of bureaucracy."

The VA will create a white-glove survivor outreach team "to guide and assist eligible survivors throughout their Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) claims process," also in May 2025.

Starting immediately, the VA "will begin work to identify areas where automation can be used to make the DIC claims process easier to navigate for survivors."

The last thing survivors need in their time of grief is frustrating red tape and bureaucracy. Thats why we are creating a better system to more quickly and effectively provide survivors the services, support and compassion theyve earned, said VA Secretary Doug Collins.

At the Office of the VA Secretary, a staff of "five full-time employees will advise the Secretary on all matters related to the policies, programs and legislative issues affecting survivors and dependents," the release said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The VAs White-Glove Survivor Outreach Team "will begin operations in May 2025 and consist of experts based out of the Philadelphia VA Regional Benefit Office," according to the news release. "These experts will receive specialized training and guide and assist eligible survivors throughout every step of the DIC claims process."

The VA "now automates more than 1,000 DIC claims payments or adjustments per day and is in the process of ongoing enhancements to increase automation that will expedite survivors claims and improve their experience," the release added. "VA will also be identifying additional areas where automation can be used to make all benefits delivery processes easier to navigate for eligible surviving dependents."

Related: Some Student Loan Borrowers Could Have Their Wages Garnished
FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo  Specialist Wooster Rancy, 21, is being accused in the October 2024 murder of 23-year-old Sgt. Sarah Roque.

Last October, officials Fort Leonard Wood said Sgt. Roques body was found in a dumpster on October 22. Sgt. Roque was a member of the 5th Engineer Battalion.

According to the U.S. Army, an Article 32 hearing took place Tuesday at the military installation. Spc. Rancy is charged with murder and obstructing justice in violation of Articles 118 and 131b of the Uniform Code of Military Justice. The Army Office of Special Trial Counsel preferred charges against Spc. Rancy on Oct. 20, 2024.

Wooster Rancy, Courtesy of Phelps County Jail

The hearing gives investigators a chance to lay out the case to a Preliminary Hearing Officer (PHO) who will then examine evidence and testimony, both of which were provided Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The next step is for the PHO to issue a report and make recommendations regarding the appropriate disposition of the case. This hearing is required before charges can be referred for trial by general court-martial according to Article 32 of the UCMJ. If it is referred to court-martial, a military judge will be selected. The schedule, dates for pre-trial hearings, and the trial itself.

Sgt. Roque was a native of Ligonier, Indiana, and was a bridge crewmember. She also served as a Mine Dog Handler with the K9 detachment.

Sergeant Roque was a daughter, sister, friend, and Soldier who chose to serve our country bravely and honorably, said Maj. Gen. Christopher Beck, MSCoE and Fort Leonard Wood commanding General at the time of her death.

Sgt. Roques awards and declarations include the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.

Sarah Roque  Photo courtesy of U.S. Army Fort Leonard Wood

Spc. Rancy is originally from North Miami, Florida, joining the Army in 2022 and attended Basic Combat Training at Fort Leonard Wood. Rancy is being held in jail at the Midwest Joint Regional Confinement Facility at Fort Leavenworth, KS.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
By Idrees Ali and Phil Stewart

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A nearly two-month-long U.S. bombing campaign in Yemen dealt heavy damage to the Iran-aligned Houthis but U.S. officials and experts caution that the group is expected to remain a vexing adversary despite a ceasefire announced on Tuesday by Washington.

President Donald Trump said U.S. forces will stop bombing the Houthis because they had agreed to stop attacking crucial shipping lanes under a deal that Oman said it mediated.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While the chief Houthi negotiator confirmed the ceasefire to Reuters, he said it did not extend to close U.S. ally Israel and he did not rule out attacks on Israel-linked vessels or targets. The group says it is acting in solidarity with Gaza's Palestinians.

In March, Trump ordered the Pentagon to intensify strikes against the Houthis, in an operation known as Rough Rider. Since then, the U.S. military says it has struck more than 1,000 targets and says it has killed hundreds of the group's fighters along with some military leaders.

But after weeks of intensive U.S. strikes, the Houthis, who have controlled most of Yemen for nearly a decade, were still able to strike Israel's Ben-Gurion Airport on Sunday, in a dramatic illustration of their resilience.

"(This operation shows) the Houthis can survive pretty much any bombing campaign," said one U.S. official, speaking on the condition of anonymity.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The group had carried out over 100 attacks on shipping lanes since Israel's war with Hamas began in October 2023.

Under the agreement, Oman said in its statement, neither the U.S. nor the Houthis would target the other, including U.S. vessels in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait. The Pentagon was notified as early as Monday evening that a ceasefire was possible, a second U.S. official told Reuters.

The Houthis endured nearly a decade of heavy strikes launched by a Saudi-led military coalition, but were able to rebuild to the point where they could threaten the U.S. Navy and Israel.

U.S. bombings have killed a significant number of mid-tier Houthi fighters who trained lower-level forces, a third U.S. official said, adding "their will to continue has been dramatically reduced."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Michael Knights, an expert on Yemen at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy think-tank, said the group could recover if weaponry continues to flow from its ally Iran.

"As long as the Houthis maintain a line of resupply to Iran and the Iranians continue to provide it, then it's not going to have any lasting effect," Knights told Reuters.

"They can recover."

DEPLETED BUT STILL POTENT

Under Joe Biden's administration, the United States and Britain retaliated with airstrikes on Houthi targets in an effort to keep open the Red Sea trading route - the path for about 15% of global shipping traffic.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump decided to intensify air strikes against the Houthis.

As of last month, ballistic missile launches by the Houthis dropped by 69% while drone attacks were down by more than 50% since the start of the campaign, according to the U.S. military.

But the group's attack on Israel on Sunday showed it can still stir chaos and escalate tensions in the region. Israel retaliated by launching airstrikes on Yemen's Hodeidah port and its main airport in Sanaa.

Last week, a U.S. F-18 jet and its tow tractor fell overboard from an aircraft carrier in the Red Sea.

While the event is still under investigation, officials told Reuters the Harry S. Truman carrier had to make a sharp turn because of a Houthi attack in the region. A second F-18 went off the side of the carrier into the sea on Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Houthi campaign has also been expensive for the U.S. military. The cost of the operation will likely be measured in the billions of dollars, according to a U.S. official.

The Houthis have also shot down seven U.S. MQ-9 drones -- each worth tens of millions of dollars -- in or around Yemen since Trump took office.

"What this shows is that the Houthis still have significant capabilities," the first official said.

(Reporting by Idrees Ali and Phil Stewart; Editing by Humeyra Pamuk and Daniel Wallis)
May 7 (UPI) -- High-ranking U.S. and Chinese officials will meet this week to discuss trade issues, according to officials from both Washington and Beijing, marking the first formal economic talks between the two countries since President Donald Trump imposed sweeping tariffs on China.

Since taking office just over 100 days ago, Trump has imposed tariffs of 145% on China, prompting Beijing to invoke its own punitive retaliatory tariffs of 125%, sparking a trade war between the two global economic powers that has rattled markets.

The two countries have been in discussions on the issue since at least last month, but Washington and Beijing acknowledged separately on Tuesday that they would engage in high-level talks this week in Switzerland involving U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Vice Premier He Lifeng of China.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Treasury said in a statement that Bessent will travel to Switzerland on Thursday for talks with President Karin Keller-Sutter.

But while there, he will also meet with China's leading economists.

The Office of the United States Trade Representative also confirmed in a statement that Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will be meeting with his Chinese counterpart in Switzerland.

On social media, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian confirmed that He, China's lead on China-U.S. economic and trade affairs, "will have a meeting the U.S. lead person, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The specifics of the meeting were not released, but Lin stated that He would be in Switzerland from Friday to Monday for "talks with Swiss leaders and relevant parties."

China and the United States have seemingly been involved in talks since Trump imposed the tariffs in March and China imposed its measures in April.

Late last month, Trump told reporters that there had been "a little bit" of movement concerning negotiations with China.

"They want to make a deal, obviously," he said. "Right now, they're not doing business with us."

In an interview with Fox News, Bessent said they will meet on both Saturday and Sunday. He explained that he expects they will discuss de-escalating rather than the trade issues specifically.

"We got to de-escalate before we move forward," he said.
By Saeed Azhar

NEW YORK (Reuters) -Citigroup CEO Jane Fraser said on Monday most of the bank's business clients could absorb U.S. tariffs of 10% on the nation's trading partners, but cautioned that companies are waiting on investments and hiring until there is more economic clarity.

"If it is 10%, most of the clients we talk to say, 'Yeah we can absorb that,' if it is 25%, not so much," Fraser said at the Milken Institute Global Conference in Los Angeles.

"Most companies are in a bit of limbo land, ... and in that investment spending, some of that is being suspended, some of the decisions on capex and hiring are on hold," she said. "That will have an impact on demand and the economy."

Fraser said tariffs could have an impact on supply and prices, depending on tariff levels.

"What we are hearing from clients is that they are prepping for headwinds," she said, adding that some are taking actions such as strengthening balance sheets.

The U.S. economy contracted for the first time in three years in the first quarter amid a flood of imports to beat President Donald Trump's tariffs. The International Monetary Fund has forecast that U.S. gross domestic product will grow only 1.8% in 2025.

On private credit, Fraser said a group of investors including Citi provided $800 million to an Apollo Global-backed vehicle, as part of a financing deal involving Boeing.

Apollo has offered a private credit financing package to partly finance Thomas Bravo's $10.6 billion acquisition of Boeing's Jeppesen navigation unit, according to news reports.

Last year Citigroup and Apollo Global partnered for a $25 billion private credit and direct lending program, illustrating a growing alliance between banks and non-banks looking for a slice of the lucrative $2 trillion market.

(Reporting by Saeed Azhar; Editing by Leslie Adler and Andrea Ricci)
The United States has issued a new "serious" travel warning on Wednesday, May 7.

Travel warnings are issued regularly by the U.S. Department of State. The warnings range in levels, from Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions to Level 4: Do Not Travel.

There are currently dozens of travel warnings listed on the State Department's website. On Wednesday, May 7, a new warning was issued. The warning is of a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution seriousness.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

U.S. travelers are being warned about Uruguay. The warning was issued on Wednesday, May 7, ahead of the popular travel months this summer.

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY - MAY 05: People wait in line for a delayed flight at Newark International Airport on May 05, 2025 in Newark, New Jersey. Delays and cancellations at one of the nation's busiest airports have persisted for about a week, with these disruptions continuing into Monday morning. Air traffic control outages, runway construction, and an announcement by United Airlines that over 20% of FAA controllers at Newark walked off the job have all contributed to delays and cancellations. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images) Spencer Platt/Getty Images

The Level 2 warning for Uruguay was issued due to increased crime in the country.

The increased crime is most common here:

Montevideo

Canelones

Maldonado

Rivera

"Violent crimes, such as homicides, armed robberies, car jackings, and thefts occur throughout the country. These crimes happen at any time and have affected U.S. citizens. Criminals commonly travel in pairs on motorcycles to approach unsuspecting victims with a weapon and demand personal belongings. Armed criminals also target grocery stores, restaurants, financial centers, and small businesses, in which innocent bystanders are often victimized," the State Department says.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The U.S. State Department is not forbidding anyone from traveling to Uruguay, but rather just reminding travelers to exercise caution if they do make a trip.

The recommendations for anyone traveling to the country include:

Be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling to tourist locations or poorly lit areas.

Call 911 if you encounter a crime in progress. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt or try to stop a robbery in progress.

Be vigilant when visiting banks or using ATMs during non-daylight hours or in remote locations; criminals often target ATMs and businesses in the early morning hours.

Do not leave valuable objects in parked vehicles or in plain sight when driving.

Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive jewelry or watches.

Review your personal and residential security plans.

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

Review the Country Security Report for Uruguay.

Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Travelers Checklist.

Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.

We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

The full list of travel warnings can be seen here.
By Luc Cohen and Blake Brittain

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A U.S. judge pressed a government lawyer on Wednesday on whether Republican President Donald Trump was telling the truth when he said he could secure the return of wrongly deported migrant Kilmar Abrego Garcia with a phone call to El Salvador's president.

Washington D.C.-based U.S. District Judge James Boasberg asked the question of Justice Department lawyer Abhishek Kambli at a hearing in a different case, in which the government is arguing it cannot obtain custody of some 137 Venezuelan migrants being held in a Salvadoran mega-prison after being deported under an 18th-century wartime law.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Didnt the president say just last week that he could secure the return of Mr. Abrego Garcia simply by picking up the phone and asking the president of El Salvador to release him?" Boasberg said, referring to Trump's comments in an April 30 ABC News interview. "So is the President not telling the truth?"

Kambli said that the U.S. having influence over the migrants' potential release did not mean they were in U.S. custody.

The American Civil Liberties Union, which is representing the Venezuelans, has asked Boasberg to order Trump to facilitate their return because they were not given an adequate chance to challenge their deportations under the 1798 Alien Enemies Act.

The case is one of the primary legal challenges to Trump's aggressive immigration policies, which critics say are violating migrants' constitutional rights.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Boasberg did not immediately rule on the ACLU's request, but said the rights group had likely established that the U.S. was still ultimately responsible for their incarceration despite them being held in El Salvador. They are being held in the Central American country's Terrorism Confinement Center, or CECOT, in a deal in which Washington is paying San Salvador $6 million.

The judge asked Kambli about other officials' statements that suggested El Salvador was holding the migrants at U.S. behest, including White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt's confirmation of the $6 million deal and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's assertion that CECOT was "one of the tools in our toolkit."

Kambli said some public statements had lacked nuance.

Is that another way of saying that a number of these statements just arent true? Boasberg said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Neither the White House nor the Department of Homeland Security immediately responded to requests for comment.

ACCUSATIONS AGAINST MADURO REFUTED

Trump invoked the Alien Enemies Act - best known for being used to intern and deport people of Japanese, German and Italian descent during World War Two - on March 15 to speed up the deportations of alleged members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua.

Relatives of many of the men deported under the act and their lawyers deny gang membership.

In invoking the act, Trump said the gang was "conducting irregular warfare" against the U.S. at the direction of socialist Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Venezuela says Tren de Aragua was effectively wiped out in 2023, and that the idea that it still exists is based on a claim from the country's political opposition, calling it a "massive lie."

The U.S. intelligence community has concluded that Maduro's government "is not directing TDA movement to and operations in the United States," according to an April 7 memorandum from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence obtained by the Freedom of the Press Foundation under a public records request.

A different federal judge has also ordered the administration to facilitate Abrego Garcia's return. So far, the Trump administration has not given any indication it has asked El Salvador's government to return Abrego Garcia.

(Reporting by Luc Cohen in New York; Editing by Aurora Ellis)
May 6A New Hampshire man suspected of playing a role in a deadly fight near Portland's Morrill's Corner last June is now wanted by federal authorities for failing to appear for his court dates.

The U.S. Marshals Service on Tuesday issued a federal arrest warrant for 46-year-old Kristofer Haken, who is facing charges of elevated aggravated assault and conspiring in the attack that killed 54-year-old Susan McHugh and injured her husband and a friend.

Haken was arrested briefly in Vermont last month and posted bail, but he has since failed to appear for court in that state as well, according to the marshals office. It was not clear why he wasn't held and brought to Maine, where he has been wanted by police for more than five months.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Five other suspects facing the same charges will be tried together as co-defendants. Police say the men planned and executed an attack after a dispute between two motorcycle clubs at a bar in Westbrook that escalated to a gunfight in Morrill's Corner last summer.

A seventh man, Aaron Karp, 47, of Naples, was accused of firing the shot that killed McHugh. He was sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to manslaughter, claiming the shooting was self-defense.

The Portland Police Department has said Haken, of Londonderry, New Hampshire, is a dangerous and potentially armed member of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club. Haken is also facing a parole violation charge in New Hampshire and is "actively taking measures to avoid apprehension by law enforcement," according to the Marshals Service.

"Investigators further believe Haken is being aided by numerous associates and additional charges may be forthcoming for aiding a fugitive," according to a news release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

View this document on Scribd

Haken is described as 5 feet, 9 inches tall, with blond dreadlocks and blue eyes. The Marshals Service says he may be in Lebanon, Maine; Londonderry, Manchester or Barnstead, New Hampshire; White River Junction, Vermont; or Albany, New York.

Anyone with information about Haken's location is asked to contact the U.S. Marshals Service at med.tipline@usdoj.gov or 877-926-8332.

Copy the Story Link

We believe it's important to offer commenting on certain stories as a benefit to our readers. At its best, our comments sections can be a productive platform for readers to engage with our journalism, offer thoughts on coverage and issues, and drive conversation in a respectful, solutions-based way. It's a form of open discourse that can be useful to our community, public officials, journalists and others.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We do not enable comments on everything  exceptions include most crime stories, and coverage involving personal tragedy or sensitive issues that invite personal attacks instead of thoughtful discussion.

You can read more here about our commenting policy and terms of use. More information is also found on our FAQs.

Show less
By Phil Stewart, Idrees Ali and Humeyra Pamuk

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A U.S. judge said any effort by the Trump administration to deport migrants to Libya would clearly violate a prior court order barring officials from swiftly deporting migrants to countries other than their own without first weighing whether they risk persecution or torture if sent there.

U.S. District Judge Brian Murphy issued an order restricting their removal on Wednesday after Reuters, citing three U.S. officials, reported on Tuesday that the Trump administration may for the first time deport migrants to Libya despite previous U.S. condemnation of Libya's harsh treatment of detainees.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Two of the officials said the U.S. military could fly the migrants to the North African country as soon as Wednesday, but stressed that plans could change.

Reuters could not determine how many migrants would be sent to Libya or the nationalities of those the administration was eyeing for deportation, including whether any were Libyan nationals. The relatives of one Mexican national told Reuters he had been instructed to sign a document allowing for his deportation to the African nation.

Immigration rights advocates said in court filings that individuals potentially subject to deportation to Libya also included Filipino, Laotian and Vietnamese migrants.

When asked about the planned deportations, President Donald Trump said he did not know whether they were happening.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"You'll have to ask Homeland Security," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office on Wednesday.

The Pentagon referred queries to the White House. The White House and the Department of Homeland Security did not respond to requests for comment.

A State Department spokesperson said: "We do not discuss the details of our diplomatic communications with other governments."

Libya's Government of National Unity said on Wednesday it rejected the use of Libyan territory as a destination for deporting migrants without its knowledge or consent. It also said there was no coordination with the United States regarding the transfer of migrants.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Khalifa Haftar's Libyan National Army, which controls eastern Libya, also rejected the idea, saying in a statement that taking in migrants deported from the U.S. "violates the sovereignty of the homeland."

After news broke of the potential flight to Libya, lawyers for a group of migrants pursuing a class action lawsuit made an emergency request that Murphy block migrants from being deported to Libya or any country en route, including Saudi Arabia, without ensuring their due process rights were met.

Murphy, who was appointed by Democratic President Joe Biden, wrote: "If there is any doubt  the Court sees none  the allegedly imminent removals, as reported by news agencies and as Plaintiffs seek to corroborate with class-member accounts and public information, would clearly violate this Court's Order."

The administration had recently argued that Murphy's prior order only applied to DHS and not the Department of Defense, which U.S. officials told Reuters would be involved in flying migrants to Libya.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Murphy said on Wednesday that DHS could not "evade" his order by transferring responsibility to the Defense Department or any other agency.

Trump, a Republican who made immigration a major issue during his election campaign, has launched aggressive enforcement action since taking office, surging troops to the southern border and pledging to deport millions of immigrants in the United States illegally.

As of Monday, the Trump administration had deported 152,000 people, according to DHS.

The administration has tried to encourage migrants to leave voluntarily by threatening steep fines, trying to strip away legal status and deporting migrants to notorious prisons in Guantanamo Bay and El Salvador.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

MEXICO TO LIBYA

Family members of a Mexican national said they feared he could be deported from the United States to Libya after he called them on Tuesday from immigration detention in Texas, saying he had been told to sign a document allowing for his deportation to the African nation.

Valentin Yah, 39, said several others of various nationalities at the immigration detention center in Pearsall, Texas, had been told to sign the same document, according to two of his family members.

His family members, who asked not to be identified for fear of retaliation, said he was pleading with immigration officials to be sent to Mexico on Tuesday, only about 100 miles (160 km) from where he was detained.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"He's literally closer to his hometown in Mexico and begging them to send him back," one of his family members said.

Yah, an Indigenous Mexican from Yucatan, has a conviction for sexual abuse and served about 15 years in prison in the United States before being detained by immigration authorities, records show. He was ordered deported by an immigration judge in 2009, records show.

LIFE-THREATENING

In its annual human rights report last year before Trump took office in January, the U.S. State Department criticized Libya's "harsh and life-threatening prison conditions." The department advises U.S. citizens against visiting due to "crime, civil unrest, kidnapping and armed conflict."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Libya has had little peace since a 2011 NATO-backed uprising, and it split in 2014 between eastern and western factions, with rival administrations governing in each area. Major fighting ended with a truce in 2020, but the underlying political dispute remains and there are sporadic clashes.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio last week hinted that Washington was looking to expand the number of countries where it may deport people beyond El Salvador.

"The further away from America, the better," Rubio said at a cabinet meeting at the White House last Wednesday.

(Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk, Idrees Ali and Phil Stewart; Additional reporting by Hani Amara in Istanbul, Ayman al-Werfali in Benghazi, Nate Raymond in Boston, Jeff Mason, Katharine Jackson, Kristina Cooke, Gram Slattery and Ted Hesson in Washington; Editing by Deepa Babington and Howard Goller)
WASHINGTON, May 6 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trumps administration may deport migrants to Libya for the first time this week, three U.S. officials said on Tuesday, as part of his immigration crackdown and despite Washingtons past condemnation of Libyas harsh treatment of detainees.

Two of the officials said the U.S. military could fly the migrants to the North African country as soon as Wednesday, but stressed that plans could change.

The Pentagon referred queries to the White House. The White House and Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A State Department spokesperson said: We do not discuss the details of our diplomatic communications with other governments.

Reuters could not determine how many migrants would be sent to Libya or the nationalities of the individuals that the administration is eyeing for deportation.

Libyas Government of National Unity said on Wednesday it rejected the use of Libyan territory as a destination for deporting migrants without its knowledge or consent. It also said there was no coordination with the United States regarding the reception of migrants.

Khalifa Haftars Libyan National Army, which controls eastern Libya, also rejected in a statement the idea of the country taking migrants deported from the United States, saying it violates the sovereignty of the homeland.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump, who made immigration a major issue during his election campaign, has launched aggressive enforcement action since taking office, surging troops to the southern border and pledging to deport millions of immigrants in the United States illegally.

As of Monday, the Trump administration has deported 152,000 people, according to DHS.

The administration has tried to encourage migrants to leave voluntarily by threatening steep fines, trying to strip away legal status, and deporting migrants to notorious prisons in Guantanamo Bay and El Salvador.

LIFE-THREATENING

In its annual human rights report released last year, the U.S. State Department criticized Libyas harsh and life-threatening prison conditions and arbitrary arrest or detention.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In its travel advisory, the Department advises U.S. citizens against visiting the country due to crime, civil unrest, kidnapping and armed conflict.

Libyas west is overseen by the GNU under Prime Minister Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah, who was installed in Tripoli through a U.N.-backed process in 2021. Eastern Libya has a parallel administration and is controlled by commander Khalifa Haftars Libyan National Army.

Major fighting ended with a truce in 2020 but the underlying political dispute between the sides remains and there are sporadic clashes between rival factions.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio last week said the United States was not satisfied only with sending migrants to El Salvador, and hinted that Washington was looking to expand the number of countries that it may deport people to.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We are working with other countries to say: We want to send you some of the most despicable human beings, will you do this as a favor to us, Rubio said at a cabinet meeting at the White House last Wednesday.

And the further away from America, the better.

A fourth U.S. official said the administration has for several weeks been looking at a number of countries to send migrants to, including Libya.

It wasnt immediately clear if the administration had struck an agreement with the Libyan authorities to accept deportees of other nationalities.

On April 19 the Supreme Court justices temporarily barred the Trump administration from deporting a group of Venezuelan migrants it accused of being gang members. Trumps administration, which has invoked a rarely used wartime law, has urged the justices to lift or narrow their order.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is unclear what kind of due process might be underway ahead of any Libya deportations.

Libya has had little peace since a 2011 NATO-backed uprising, and it split in 2014 between eastern and western factions, with rival administrations governing in each area.

A Tripoli-based Government of National Unity under Prime Minister Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah was installed through a U.N.-backed process in 2021 but the Benghazi-based House of Representatives no longer recognizes its legitimacy.

Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk, Idrees Ali and Phil Stewart; Additional reporting by Hani Amara in Istanbul, Ayman al-Werfali in Benghazi, Gram Slattery and Ted Hesson; Editing by Michael Perry and Chizu Nomiyama

Related...
Another fighter jet from the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier has been lost in the Red Sea, according to reports.

The $60 million plane is the second expensive jet to be lost in the last 10 days. Last Monday, a $56 million F/A-18 fighter jet rolled off the Truman as it performed an evasive maneuver to avoid incoming fire from Houthi rebels.

"The F/A-18E was actively under tow in the hangar bay when the move crew lost control of the aircraft. The aircraft and tow tractor were lost overboard," the Navy said in a statement on the April 28 accident.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As for the latest plane mishap, CNN reports that "it is not entirely clear" what took place, but two sources said there was an "arrestment failure" as the jet attempted to land on the ship.

The pilot and weapons officer had to eject as a result. Fortunately, both men were recovered by rescue personnel and are safe, though they did apparently suffer "minor" injuries.

MARSEILLE, FRANCE - 2024/11/28: The aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman arrives in the French Mediterranean port of Marseille. (Photo by Gerard Bottino/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images) SOPA Images/Getty Images

The USS Truman has been a major part of the American campaign against the Houthis, who are based out of Yemen and have the backing of Iran.

On Tuesday, President Donald Trump claimed that the United States and Houthis had agreed to a ceasefire "effective immediately."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They just dont want to fight. And we will honor that, and we will stop the bombings, and they have capitulated, but more importantly, we will take their word [when] they say they will not be blowing up ships anymore, Trump said at a press conference.

Mohammed Abdulsalam, the chief Houthi negotiator, told Reuters though that the agreement doesn't cover Israel "in any way, shape or form."

"As long as they announced the cessation (of U.S. strikes) and they are actually committed to that, our position was self-defence so we will stop," Abdulsalam said.
U.S. Reps. Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) and Ryan Zinke, a Republican from Montana, on May 7, 2025 announced a new bipartisan public lands caucus. (Photo courtesy U.S. Rep. Vasquez's office)

Amidst upheavals in public land management, budget proposals to cut millions in funding from conservation and an amendment by House Republicans approving the sale of federal lands in two states, U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) during a news conference at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday announced a new bipartisan public lands caucus, co-chaired by U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke, a Republican from Montana, to oppose the sale of public lands.

Public lands are where I learned to fish, hunt, and connect with my family and culture  and those experiences shaped who I am, Vasquez said in a statement. These lands dont belong to one party or one group of people; they belong to all of us. The Public Lands Caucus is about protecting that birthright  bringing Democrats and Republicans together to preserve access, defend conservation, and invest in the outdoor economy that powers rural communities like mine in southern New Mexico. This is personal for me, and Im proud to lead this bipartisan effort to keep our public lands in public hands.

In addition to Vasquez and Zinke, the caucus includes 12 additional members, equally divided from both major parties.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I follow the Theodore Roosevelt motto that public lands are for the benefit and enjoyment of the people, and that means making sure we both conserve and manage those lands to ensure public access for the next generation, Zinke said in a statement. Public lands arent red or blue issues, its red white and blue. The bipartisan Public Lands Caucus brings together lawmakers who dont agree on much, but we agree on and are ready to work together to promote policies that advance conservation and public access. I look forward to working with Co-Chair Vasquez, the vice chairs, and all the members of this caucus so future generations can enjoy the same opportunities to hunt, hike, fish, make a living and enjoy our uniquely American heritage.

The initiative earned quick praise from the national Outdoor Recreation Roundtable nonprofit, whose Senior Vice President Whitney Potter Schwartz described the new caucus in a statement as a significant and welcome step forward in protecting and expanding access to our public lands and waters that power Americas $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy and enrich the lives of millions of Americans. Keeping public lands public is a business imperative. There couldnt be a more important time to stand up for Americas best return on investment and keep public land selloff out of reconciliation.

Also in public lands congressional news, Democratic U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich of New Mexico, the ranking member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, on Wednesday sent a scolding letter to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum over the advancement of authority to former DOGE staffer Tyler Hassen, accompanied by a list of questions regarding Hassens employment. The Interior Department, Heinrich notes in the letter, plays a vital role in managing public lands, safeguarding cultural resources, and engaging in responsible energy development. Delegating sweeping authorities and responsibilities to a non-Senate confirmed person in violation of the Vacancies Reform Act is baffling and extremely troubling.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
LONDON, Ohio (WCMH)  A large section of U.S. Route 40 was closed Wednesday morning due to a police incident.

According to the Ohio Department of Transportation, U.S. 40 was closed in both directions between U.S. Route 42 and Marysville-London Road, just east of the Madison County Airport due to an unspecified police incident. The incident occurred at around 6 a.m.

The countys sheriffs office confirmed the closure, citing an emergency situation, and in a media release it was reported that deputies responded reports of a person firing a gun.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Intel reaffirms commitment to division behind its New Albany plant

The release stated that the incident is in Deer Creek Township and that a person was dry firing a gun. Deputies gave the suspect commands, which were not followed, secured the address, and called a Franklin County SWAT team to the scene.

The suspect, 43-year-old Joshua Sulser, of London, was taken into custody without further incident and he is charged with aggravated menacing. A firearm plus ammunition was recovered by authorities.

U.S. 40 reopened at approximately 6:35 a.m.

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.
WASHINGTON, D.C. (WBTW)  The U.S. Supreme Court has denied the petition of an Horry County death row inmate accused of killing his 43-year-old girlfriend and a 74-year-Conway man in April 2005.

Stephen Stanko was convicted in Georgetown County in 2006 for fatally stabbing Laura Ling at her home in Murrells Inlet and in 2009 in Horry County for shooting and killing Henry Turner. He was sentenced to death for both killings.

After the killings, he was arrested in Augusta, Georgia, following a nationwide manhunt.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Here are the 35 men on South Carolinas death row

The Supreme Court ruled on his petition on Monday. The South Carolina Department of Corrections filed a motion opposing the petition on March 31.

Stanko also has other convictions for assault and battery with intent to kill, first-degree criminal sexual conduct, kidnapping, and armed robbery.

An execution date has not been set.

* * *

Dennis Bright is the Digital Executive Producer at News13. He joined the team in May 2021. Dennis is a West Virginia native and a graduate of Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. Follow Dennis on Facebook, X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 WBTW.
CAIRO (Reuters) - The United Arab Emirates' foreign ministry said on Wednesday it did not recognise a decision by Sudan's army-affiliated defence council to sever ties with the Gulf country.

The Sudanese defence council said on Sunday it would cut ties with the UAE over army accusations that Abu Dhabi supplied rival Rapid Support Forces paramilitaries with advanced and strategic weapons.

The council said the weapons had enabled the RSF to carry out damaging strikes, including with drones, on facilities in the Red Sea city of Port Sudan since Sunday, a major escalation in the country's two-year-old civil war.

(Reporting by Menna Alaa El-Din and Yomna Ehab; editing by Mark Heinrich)
Blank sailings out on the trans-Pacific trade lane are expected to contribute to a near-term pullback in intermodal volumes at Canadian National Railway (CN). But both CN and Class I rival Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) painted a more promising picture illustrating that West Coast ports north of the border have seen more stability than their American counterparts.

CN, which operates across Canada and the U.S., kept its 2025 guidance of 10-percent to 15-percent earnings per share (EPS) growth intact even as it identified a heightened recessionary risk related to tariffs.

More from Sourcing Journal

Weve not seen a significant impact to our volumes thus far, but theres no question that uncertainty has increased over the last few months, said CEO Tracy Robinson in a Thursday earnings call.

CPKC cut its outlook to match the uncertainty, lowering its EPS growth expectations to between 10 percent and 14 percent from a prior adjusted target of 12 percent and 18 percent.

According to CPKC chief financial officer Nadeem Velani, the railroad is still tracking for mid-single-digit volume growth for the year.

For CN, chief commercial officer Remi Lalonde kept referring to the expected international intermodal volume declines as an air pocket, which he anticipates the railroad endure for maybe a month or two, max. If the air pocket lasts longer than expected, CNs chief field operating officer Derek Taylor said employees could be furloughed to adjust cost structures.

The recovery of U.S. volume has been a little bit slower than we expected, said Lalonde during the call, who said the volumes picked up nicely in April. Lalonde indicated overall that U.S.-bound containers entering through West Coast ports in Vancouver and Prince Rupert were down 30 percent in the first quarter. At least half of that traffic comes from China, he said.

However, the 16 percent growth in Canadian intermodal volumes, which represents two thirds of the intermodal business, has kept traffic through those ports much stronger than we expected.

We think the impact on a place like Rupert and Vancouver is not as significant as what weve heard from other of the Western terminals, Lalonde said.

Echoing Lalonde, CPKCs chief marketing officer John Brooks said volumes at both Vancouvers Centerm terminal as well as those at New Brunswicks Port of St. John were stronger than expected.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  A new statewide program is aiming to improve maternal and infant health in Arkansas, one of the states with the highest maternal and infant mortality rates in the country.

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) has launched a three-tiered initiative through its new program, Arkansas Center for Women & Infants Health.

It offers vital resources to new mothers and babies during the critical postpartum period.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Arkansas Department of Health, nonprofit react to F on March of Dimes report for infant, maternal health

We received this grant as a congressional earmark from Senator Boozman, who really wanted to help move the statistics, said Dr. Nirvana Manning, executive director of the center.

The programs first tier is focused on equity in education. UAMS is standardizing postpartum education across the state to ensure that families in every corner of Arkansas receive the same high-quality information about caring for both mother and baby.

We dont want someone in one part of the state to get more or different or better information than another part of the state, Manning explained.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The second tier provides families with infant supply kits packed with essentials to help ease the transition from hospital to home.

Federal grant gives Arkansas $17 million to support maternal health

It just kind of helps with those immediate postpartum needs, navigating some of the unexpected things that you may need, said Manning.

Included in the kits are bright I Gave Birth braceletsmore than just a keepsake. These bracelets serve as visual alerts to healthcare providers and emergency responders, signaling that the wearer recently gave birth and may still be at risk for complications.

A QR code on the bracelet links to a digital resource hub accessible to both patients and their families.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The third tier of the initiative is perhaps the most proactive: a postpartum call center.

US maternal death rate rose slightly last year, health officials say

Instead of waiting for families to seek help, UAMS providers will reach out to check in on physical health, mental wellbeing, and access to basic necessities.

Were going through some health care things, but also social determinants of health, Manning said. Do you need diapers? Do you need mental health care? Do we need help reapplying for insurance?

The goal is to wrap around these moms and patients where they need it most, she added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The pilot program has already launched at UAMS in Little Rock, with plans to expand to all 33 birthing centers across the state by the end of summer.

Organizers say they will tailor efforts to meet the unique needs of each community, particularly in healthcare deserts where access to maternal services is limited.

To learn more about resources or the new initiative, visit MyArkansasBirth.org.

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 KLRT - FOX16.com.
A UC Berkeley student just weeks away from graduating became paralyzed from the waist down after a recent fall at a university fraternity party.

Bandna Bhatti's family told TV station KTVU that on April 19, Bhatti fell from a stairway at Phi Kappa Tau on Piedmont Avenue. She was found 15 minutes later but didn't know how bad her injuries were; 911 was called seven hours later.

Bhatti, 21, is paralyzed from the waist down and has a spinal fracture and brain hematoma, according to a GoFundMe account created to cover her medical costs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These injuries are not only life-altering but will require extensive and ongoing medical care, including physical therapy, rehabilitation, and specialized support to help her navigate this new chapter, the web page said.

Read more: Student turns camera on man who snuck into a women's bathroom in SoCal campus

Bhatti was only three weeks away from graduating with a degree in data science, according to the fundraising account.

Bandna is a brilliant, compassionate, and resilient young woman who has worked tirelessly toward her dreams. Now, she faces a long and difficult road ahead, it said.

A university spokesperson told TV station KRON4 that the Berkeley Police Department is investigating the incident.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

UC Berkeley is aware of an ongoing police investigation regarding reports of a student being injured near or at a fraternity," according to the statement. "Our thoughts are with the student, their family, loved ones and friends during this time.

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.
Sad news out of Northern California this week, after the University of California, Santa Cruz, confirmed the death of a male undergraduate student who went missing on Sunday after jumping off the cliff at Steamer Lane.

The Santa Cruz Fire Department was called around 4:45 p.m. after witnesses said two swimmers had jumped off the cliff and were struggling to return to shore. Personnel from California State Parks, harbor patrol, Santa Cruz police and the United States Coast Guard responded to the incident. Witnesses said one of the swimmers got out of the water on their own. The other was last seen near Its Beach, located just north of the Lane.

Stephen Dunn/Getty Images

Surfers often jump from the end of the point and paddle east toward the Slot or Middle Peak. Despite over an hour of searching, including with drones, authorities were unable to find the swimmer. The Coast Guard eventually suspended its search efforts on Monday. UC Santa Cruz did not share the name of the missing victim. We are heartbroken to learn about the tragic death of a UC Santa Cruz undergraduate student, the school said in a statement sent to Lookout Santa Cruz by UCSC spokesperson Scott Hernandez-Jason. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and friends. We are in touch with the family and are providing support to others who are impacted. Out of respect for the familys privacy, we are not sharing the students name.

Related: Three Dead as Migrant Boat Capsizes in San Diego (Video)
(Main photo courtesy of the University of Iowa; form courtesy of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security)

Four current or former international students from the University of Iowa have decided to publicly identify themselves and pursue their lawsuit against the federal government for revoking their status as students.

The federal lawsuit was initially filed last month by a UI College of Law professor on behalf of the four, who were identified in court records only as John Doe No. 1 through 4.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Named as defendants in the case are Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, of which Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, is a part. Also named as a defendant is Acting Director of ICE Todd Lyons.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

After a judge entered a temporary restraining order blocking Homeland Security from detaining or deporting the plaintiffs, attorneys for the students identified the four to Homeland Security for the purpose of complying with the courts order.

Earlier this week, the judge ruled that in order for the plaintiffs to proceed with their case they would have to publicly identify themselves as is customary with litigants in civil cases.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In newly filed court papers, the four students are now identified as:

 Sri Chaitanya Krishna Akondy, who is an Indian national, a master of public health graduate of the University of Iowa, and a practicing epidemiologist working for the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services.

My daily responsibilities include analyzing data related to substance use and overdose deaths using statistical methods, which helps in shaping public health responses and policies, Akondy told the universitys news service in 2024. My education at Iowa was vital in preparing me for my role in public health. The university enabled me to undertake internships across Iowa, including at Lakeside Lab in Okoboji, and Linn County Public Health in Cedar Rapids, providing a broad view of public health challenges and solutions within the state.

Akondys only interaction with law enforcement is alleged to be an arrest for drunken driving that was later expunged from court records.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 Prasoon Kumar, who is an Indian national and resides in Iowa City, is a fourth-year Ph.D. student studying chemical engineering. He first came to the United States on an F-1 visa in 2021. The lawsuit alleges his only criminal history is a speeding ticket and a misdemeanor conviction for drunken driving.

 Songli Cai, who is a Chinese national and third-year undergraduate student living in Tiffin. His only interactions with law enforcement are alleged to be for speeding, driving without a valid drivers license and a disorderly conduct conviction.

 Haoran Yang, who is a Chinese national living in Iowa City and is both a third-year undergraduate and pre-doctorate student at the university. The lawsuit indicates he has been convicted of first-offense drunken driving, and has two speeding citations, one failure-to-yield citation, and one citation for driving without a valid drivers license.

Students await ruling on injunction

According to their lawsuit, each of the plaintiffs was admitted to the United States on an F-1 student visa.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lawsuit alleges that on April 10, 2025, ICE abruptly canceled, without explanation, the plaintiffs status as students within DHS Student and Exchange Visitor Information Systems database. The same day, the plaintiffs each received emails from the University of Iowas International Students and Scholars Services informing them of the cancellation and the fact that the university was not responsible for the action.

Four days later, the lawsuit claims, three of the plaintiffs visas were revoked without explanation. The three each received identical messages from U.S. embassies, warning them that remaining in the United States can result in fines, detention, and/or deportation, and adding that deportation can take place at a time that does not allow the person being deported to secure possessions or conclude affairs in the United States. Persons being deported may be sent to countries other than their countries of origin.

Since beginning their studies, the lawsuit claims, the plaintiffs have maintained their status as students, are in good academic standing and have not committed any serious criminal offenses.

The lawsuit alleges that Homeland Security has initiated a national policy of coercing international students into self-deportation by leveraging ambiguous student-status revocations, coupled with visa revocation notices and threatening language. The students also allege that Homeland Securitys lack of transparency and procedural safeguards created chaos within educational institutions and upended the lives of lawful F-1 visa holders.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lawsuit emphasizes that the plaintiffs are not challenging the revocation of their F-1 student visas but are instead challenging DHS termination of their student status to create a pretext for future adverse immigration actions against them.

The judge in the case has yet to rule on the students motion to convert the short-term temporary restraining order to a preliminary injunction that would be in force until the case is resolved.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
A new report has found that United Kingdom firms have continued to export military items to Israel despite a government suspension in September last year, amid allegations that the British parliament has been deliberately misled.

A report by the Palestinian Youth Movement, Progressive International and Workers for a Free Palestine revealed on Wednesday that the UK sent 8,630 separate munitions since the suspensions took effect, all in the category Bombs, Grenades, Torpedoes, Mines, Missiles And Similar Munitions Of War And Parts Thereof-Other.

Despite [Foreign Minister] David Lammy, Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds MP and other Ministers repeatedly reiterating in the House of Commons that the Government has ended this direct supply of F-35 [fighter jets] parts, the evidence indicates that they have continued to send direct shipments of components for lethal F-35 jets to Israel after September 2024  and that these shipments are ongoing, it added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In September, Lammy announced the suspension of 29 arms export licences, out of 350, that were used during Israels war on Gaza.

Lammy said the government had found there had been a clear risk that the licences might be used to commit or facilitate a serious violation of international humanitarian law. He said the ongoing licences covered items such as goggles and helmets for use by one of the UKs closest allies.





Parliament misled

The report used data from the Israel Tax Authority and concluded that Lammy had misled Parliament and the public about arms exports to Israel.

Former Labour shadow Chancellor John McDonnell said the government has a lot of explaining to do in response to the report.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If Parliament has been misled by the Foreign Secretary or any minister it is a resigning matter and more importantly it attracts potentially a charge of complicity in war crimes. The Government has shrouded its arms supplies to Israel in secrecy, McDonnell said.

Former leader of the Labour Party and independent MP, Jeremy Corbyn, said the report could explain why the government has not responded to a call for a public inquiry into the UKs role in Israels military assault.

When will the UK government come clean about the reality of military cooperation with Israel? The public deserves to know the full scale of the UKs complicity in crimes against humanity  and we are not going anywhere until we have established the truth, he said.

The Foreign Office told Al Jazeera that the government has suspended the relevant licences that might be used to commit or facilitate serious violations of International Humanitarian Law in Gaza.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Of the remaining licences for Israel, the vast majority are not for the Israeli Defence Forces but are for civilian purposes or re-export, and therefore are not used in the war in Gaza. The only exemption is the F-35 programme due to its strategic role in NATO and wider implications for international peace and security, the ministry said.

Any suggestion that the UK is licensing other weapons for use by Israel in the war in Gaza is misleading.

The UK totally opposes an expansion of Israels military operations in Gaza. We urge all parties to return urgently to talks, implement the ceasefire agreement in full, secure the release of hostages taken by Hamas, and work towards a permanent peace, it added.
By Sachin Ravikumar and Andrew MacAskill

LONDON (Reuters) -British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Wednesday dismissed the idea that he had sold out British workers by giving a tax break to some Indian workers as part of a free trade agreement with India, calling the claims "incoherent nonsense".

The trade deal announced on Tuesday, which includes a range of tariff cuts on British imports to India, also exempts some short-term workers from India from paying into Britain's social security system for three years.

The exemption under the so-called Double Contributions Convention (DCC) also applies to British workers in India, but while Britain barely made mention of this element of the trade deal, India hailed it as a "huge win".

British opposition parties accused the government of signing up to a deal that would unfairly benefit India.

"Our India trade deal ... is good for British jobs. The criticism on the double taxation is incoherent nonsense," Starmer told parliament. "It's in the agreements that we've already got with 50 other countries."

Britain has social security agreements with the European Union and countries including Switzerland, Canada, Japan and Chile, with some deals allowing for five-year exemptions, which ensure migrant workers are not taxed in two countries at one time. India also has similar agreements with other nations.

Britain expects the DCC agreement with India to cost around 100 million pounds ($133 million) a year.

Social security, known as National Insurance in Britain, is the country's second-biggest tax, which raises over 170 billion pounds in government revenue through employee and employer contributions.

Earlier, Britain's Trade Minister Jonathan Reynolds said that the changes would affect only a "very small number" of people.

Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, which is currently leading in the opinion polls, said the government had "sold out British workers".

He said that Indian workers and firms would pay 20% less tax than their British counterparts.

Indian officials have said the social security exemptions would benefit Indian information technology companies operating in Britain, which often transfer employees to the country on short-term contracts.

Official data shows Britain granted more than 81,000 work visas to Indians last year, more than any other nationality, although many represent health and care or other non-temporary workers who would still be expected to pay social security in Britain.

($1 = 0.7492 pounds)

(Reporting by Sachin Ravikumar and Andrew MacAskill; Editing by Sharon Singleton)
The UK intelligence service has said that the sharp decline in oil prices threatens Russia's ability to finance its planned budget for 2025.

Source: UK Defence Intelligence review dated 7 May on X (Twitter), as reported by European Pravda

Details: UK intelligence notes that due to worsening price expectations, the Russian Ministry of Finance has reduced its expected oil and gas revenues by 25%, from 10.94 trillion to 8.32 trillion roubles (from US$135 billion to US$103 billion).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, the expected budget deficit has tripled, going from 0.5% to 1.7% of GDP.

Despite this, the intelligence community writes that Russia prioritises high military spending to the detriment of economic stability.

They pointed out that the Russian authorities have increased the prognosis for public spending for 2025 by another 830 billion roubles (about US$10.2 billion).

The UK intelligence service says that if low oil prices persist, Moscow will likely be forced to use its financial reserves even more to support government spending.

Background:

UK intelligence pointed to a trend of further increases in the number of Russian casualties in the war against Ukraine in 2025.

The intelligence also described how Russia is recruiting foreigners to join its armed forces to participate in the war it has unleashed against Ukraine.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
LONDON (Reuters) -Britain is in "active discussions" with top U.S. officials over the 100% tariff on all movies produced outside the U.S. announced by President Donald Trump, as it aims to protect one of its biggest creative industries.

"We are already in active discussions with the top of the U.S. administration on this subject. We are working hard to establish what might be proposed, if anything, and to make sure our world-beating creative industries are protected," creative industries minister Chris Bryant told parliament on Wednesday.

Bryant noted that Trump had not given any details about his proposal, adding that it was not clear how tariffs could be applied to the film industry, with productions often created and developed across different locations and countries.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The entertainment industry was left flummoxed on Monday by Trump's announcement of tariffs, with executives questioning both the timing of the proposed levy and how it could be enforced.

Britain has a leading film and TV production industry, centred on studios located close to London.

Production spending on films in Britain in 2024 totalled $5.91 billion, according to ProdPro, compared with $14.54 billion in the United States.

(Reporting by William James and Paul Sandle, writing by Sarah Young; Editing by Sachin Ravikumar)
LONDON (Reuters) - Britain on Wednesday said it was urging India and Pakistan to show restraint and engage in dialogue following the worst fighting in more than two decades between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

"Current tensions between India and Pakistan are a serious concern," British foreign minister David Lammy said in a statement. "The UK government is urging India and Pakistan to show restraint and engage in direct dialogue to find a swift, diplomatic path forward."

(Reporting by Sachin Ravikumar; editing by Sarah Young)
The Armenian organizations of America, which have been profiting from the Armenian state budget for decades, are in mourning. Nikol Pashinyan's government decided to spend money on hiring a lobbying organization, instead of, as tradition indicates, transferring millions to the diaspora, which itself lobbied for Armenian interests in the United States.

According to Armenian media, the Armenian government, through its embassy in the United States, has signed a monthly contract with Washington-based Mercury Public Affairs in the amount of 50,000 US dollars per month. The contract became effective on April 1, 2025 and will last until March 31, 2026. The deal became known only after the contract was submitted to the U.S. Department of Justice last month, as required by the Law on Registration of Foreign Agents.

This is not the first experience of the current government in buying lobbying and PR services in the United States. A few years ago, Yerevan had already acquired the services of one company, but the contract was quickly terminated due to the unwillingness of the Armenian government to pay.

Whatever it was, Pashinyan chose a company that will promote the interests of Armenia, which Armenian organizations have always been engaged in.

Executive Director of the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) Aram Hamparyan is tearing up and screaming. On Mercury's LinkedIn page, he wrote: "In a city (Washington) with dozens of large lobbying firms, Mr. Pashinyan chose one with Turkish money in a bank account and Armenian blood on his hands." The latter is due to the fact that Mercury signed a contract with Turkiye in 2018, which it terminated in October 2020 due to Armenian tantrums over Ankara's support for Azerbaijan in the 44-day war.

The Diaspora is beside itself with rage. Two organizations have always been in charge of Armenia's affairs: the Armenian Assembly of America and ANCA. These two structures bought lobbyists, squeezed their people into government structures, and staged grandiose tantrums, forcing American politicians to change their minds on issues of interest to Armenians. And Pashinyan fundamentally ignores the diaspora. The Armenian Prime Minister has a bad relationship with spyurk. Including with the American Armenians. The fact is that the current Prime Minister of Armenia is somewhat different mentally from the traditional Armenian mass, he believes that the diaspora should not rule this country and dictate to Yerevan what to do. A reasonable approach. The Diaspora is, by and large, to blame for all of Armenia's ills, and there's no arguing with that. Armenia has not received anything from the stormy and expensive lobbying in world capitals, despite the huge funds that the diaspora spends.

According to Spyurk's organizations, which have been ignored, Pashinyan will now give instructions to Mercury that contradict the information that the diaspora transmits to American officials. As you can see, the diaspora in the United States is terribly worried that the lies and falsifications it promotes will be refuted by the actions of the company hired by Pashinyan.

The Armenian media lists the points for which Yerevan will pay the American company 50,000 dollars a month.

The firm should protect Armenia's interests in Congress and the White House, promote the development of comprehensive relations with Armenia, ensure that Yerevan has credibility in Wellington, and so on. In principle, all this has been promoted before.

I was particularly amused by the following point: to emphasize the geopolitical and strategic importance of Armenia and its role as the most important partner in the South Caucasus for the regional and global interests of the United States. Well, Pashinyan set the task for Mercury Public Affairs. This will probably be the most difficult task for the hired lobbyists. Hypothetically, it is possible to find understanding by denigrating Baku, or accusing Azerbaijan of incredible crimes that it did not commit. But how can we prove to Washington, and even under a businessman president, that Armenia is the most important and most needed partner of the United States in the South Caucasus?

Seriously, the days of lobbying are over. It is no accident that we have noticed that Armenia has gained nothing from decades of buying lobbyists and spending money on fakes. She didn't win anything, she just lost. She lost people, time, opportunities, prospects. The Armenians have always tried to follow in the footsteps of the Jews, but they did not understand the main thing - the Jews are not working against other countries, but for the prosperity of their own, Israeli state. The Armenians go out of their way to crush and trample Armenia's neighbors. The Diaspora has never thought about Armenia, as it has no roots in that country. Armenians are a diasporic people who are not rooted in the "ancestral homeland." He easily changes places, spreads to other countries, and he doesn't care about the "homeland of his ancestors." Ambaryan doesn't care that Armenia has never become a real state. With the money that spyurk unsuccessfully spent over the decades on the destruction of Turkiye and Azerbaijan, it was possible to turn Armenia into a normal, prosperous country. But the Diaspora has its own tasks, which do not coincide with the tasks of the citizens of the Republic of Armenia.
This story was originally published on Banking Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Banking Dive newsletter.

Dive Brief:

Credit Suisse Services AG, now owned by UBS, has agreed to pay more than $510 million to settle a yearslong investigation into how the lender helped taxpayers hide assets and income in offshore accounts for more than a decade, the Justice Department said Monday.

Credit Suisse pleaded guilty to conspiring to hide more than $4 billion from the Internal Revenue Service in at least 475 offshore accounts.

The Swiss bank also signed a non-prosecution agreement, agreed to assist the Justice Department in its ongoing probe, and paid significant monetary penalties for maintaining accounts in Singapore on behalf of U.S. taxpayers who were using offshore accounts to evade U.S. taxes and reporting requirements.

Dive Insight:

From Jan. 1, 2010, until at least July 2021, Credit Suisse, which had ultra-high and high-net worth clients across the globe, conspired to willfully help U.S. customers conceal their ownership and control of assets and funds held at the bank, according to the plea agreement, NPA, and documents filed in court Monday.

Customers avoided their tax obligations by opening and maintaining undeclared offshore accounts for U.S. taxpayers at Credit Suisse. The lender also provided several offshore private banking services that helped taxpayers conceal their assets and income from the IRS, failing to file certain reports.

Credit Suisse falsified records, processed fictitious donation documents, and serviced over $1 billion in accounts without documentation of tax compliance.

In doing so, Credit Suisse AG committed new crimes and breached its May 2014 plea agreement with the United States, the DOJ noted.

In that 2014 plea deal, Credit Suisse admitted to assisting U.S. taxpayers in hiding offshore accounts from the IRS. The lender had to pay $2.6 billionthe largest payment to date in a criminal tax case, the DOJ said at the time. The probe also led to the indictment of eight Credit Suisse executives.

UBS acquired Credit Suisse in a $3.25 billion government-orchestrated deal in March 2023. The Swiss banking giant said in a statement Monday that Credit Suisse agreed with the DOJ to settle a long-running tax-related investigation into Credit Suisses implementation of its 2014 plea agreement, relating to its legacy cross-border business with US taxpayers booked in Switzerland, which began before UBS acquired Credit Suisse.
LONDON (Reuters) - Nationwide rioting that shook Britain last summer was not coordinated by specific groups, but police must do more to counter false narratives online to avoid similar events in future, England's police watchdog said on Wednesday.

Racist unrest involving far-right supporters erupted at anti-immigration protests across Britain last summer after false information circulated online that a British teenager who killed three young girls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance event was an Islamist migrant.

Axel Rudakubana, 18, admitted killing the girls and stabbing 10 others last July in the northern English town of Southport. He was sentenced to at least 52 years behind bars in January.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a report, His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services said those who took part in the riots were mostly "disaffected individuals, influencers or groups that incited people to act violently", rather than criminal factions or extremists.

"It was mainly unrelated to their ideology or political views," the inspectorate said in the report. "The causes of the disorder were complex, but the overwhelming speed and volume of online content further fuelled its spread."

HMICFRS said the police had not kept pace with the fast-developing nature of online communications, and that such events required forces to counter false narratives online and be innovative in their approach.

"Policing cannot be passive when public safety is at risk," HMICFRS said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

HMICFRS also found the police did not sufficiently prioritise intelligence on disorder and that lessons had not been learned from previous outbreaks. Chief Inspector Andy Cooke said the police "should not be caught off-guard again".

The National Police Chiefs Council welcomed the report but said it failed to accurately assess the forces' role in countering harmful online content.

"It overlooks the reality that law enforcement cannot and should not regulate social media, placing unrealistic expectations on policing while ignoring the critical responsibility of platform providers and regulators," the NPCC said.

"Without robust detection, moderation, and removal of false narratives, misinformation will continue to fuel unrest unchecked," the NPCC added.

(Reporting by Catarina Demony; Editing by Nia Williams)
The following is the May 6, 2025 edition of our Ukraine Business Roundup weekly newsletter. To get the biggest news in business and tech from Ukraine directly in your inbox, subscribe here.

As Im sure you saw, the U.S. and Ukraine finally signed the minerals agreement after months and months of back and forth and tense negotiations. Most people are in agreement that this version of the deal is much fairer than earlier versions observers called colonial and exploitative, but that doenst mean people are ready to celebrate.

Actually, the deals signing seems to have inspired more questions than answers, particularly, what this means for Ukraines long-term security (unclear), and what this means for investment (also unclear).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Not to mention the fact that President Volodymyr Zelensky and his team are being accused publicly in Ukraine over having lied about only signing the first of a series of agreements  the intergovernmental or political agreement on the joint investments  in D.C. last week. Well get into that a bit later.

On security: Kyiv was not able to secure any firm security guarantees as part of the deal, something Zelensky had kept pushing for throughout the negotiations. What the two sides did appear to agree on was that any future U.S. aid, including military assistance, could be counted toward the deal (instead of as repayment for past aid.)

So under this current deal, the U.S. will contribute to a joint fund either through direct payments or military assistance. Ukraines contribution will be 50% of future revenue with royalties from new licenses for critical minerals, gas, and oil exploration. More detailed information on the agreement here.

In other words, Ukraine offers up access to and revenues from its natural resources in exchange for potential future U.S. military aid that we arent even sure the U.S. (read: Donald Trumps administration) is ready to provide.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As an editor from Ukrainian publication ZN.ua aptly pointed out today, the wording from the signed agreement tells us all we need to know: If, after the Effective Date, the Government of the United States of America delivers new military assistance to the Government of Ukraine in any form (including the donation of weapons systems, ammunition, technology or training)... Emphasis on the if.

Another argument on security that has been floating around (and that barely holds up) is that the mere presence of American companies in Ukraine is a security guarantee. When Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022, it didnt seem to mind whatsoever that there were and have been for decades, many large American and multinational corporations operating in Ukraine.

On investment: There is one thing I think that needs to be made clear right up front. Without a secure Ukraine, investors will continue to stay away. As Ed Chow, a non-resident senior associate at the Center for Strategic and International Studies who knows Ukraine well, pointed out to our reporter, the signed deal the public has seen doesnt include any provisions about providing risk insurance at a reasonable price that could attract investors.

The new deal is "warm words rather than real investment, Timothy Ash, an associate fellow at Chatham House's Russia and Eurasia Program, told our reporter. I cannot see any big and meaningful investment in Ukraine until security is assured. And this deal does nothing there.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And industry experts told Reuters that the deal is unlikely to deliver significant financial returns for at least a decade. And then there is also the issue of mapping out Ukraines critical minerals  something that, weve discovered in our reporting, remains completely elusive.

Clearly there was work done in negotiations, but I still dont see a really comprehensive agreement that, from an industry investor point of view, says, Okay, this changes everything, Chow said.

Now onto the drama unfolding around the deal in Ukraine. As Economy Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko was on her way to D.C. to sign the deal, reports began to emerge that the U.S. was expecting Ukraine to sign three agreements: an intergovernmental agreement on resources, the fund agreement, and then a third technical agreement, with the latter two being the agreements that will govern the terms of the investments.

Given past leaked versions of the fund agreement had shocked the public for giving the U.S. unprecedented access to Ukraines resources, this caused quite a stir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But when Svyrydenko announced the signing, it was done so in a way as to make it seem that only the first of the three was signed. Now, reporters and public commentators in Ukraine are coming out saying  citing their sources  that in fact all three have been signed. Svyrydenko herself today denied the reports, according to opposition MP Yaroslav Zhelezniak.

And not only that  but Ukraines lawmakers, who have to ratify the agreement, have apparently only been shown the first, officially signed agreement, but have been told verbally the contents of the others, according to ZN.ua.

To boot, Zelensky publicly called on the U.S. to cancel visas to Ukrainian lawmakers that dont vote on ratification.

Drama aside  heres where its all headed in the near future: Ukraines parliamentary committee on foreign policy today approved the deal for ratification. On May 6-8, Svyrydenko and other high level officials will meet with parliamentary factions to discuss the deal, and on May 8, itll get put up for a vote. According to Zhelezniak, they have the votes and no one will disrupt it. We shall see.

An investigator from the Bureau of Economic Security on March 26, 2024. (Bureau of Economic Security of Ukraine / Telegram)

Reforming a broken law enforcement agency

If youve been reading this newsletter for a while, you might remember my frequent ramblings about Ukraines Bureau of Economic Security  infamous for its bust-down-the-door raids on businesses. Many in Ukraine saw the bureaus behavior as intimidation tactics, or even attempts to extort Ukrainian companies for various reasons.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After several high-profile incidents involving the agency  including controversial raids and the arrest of businessmen  calls for reform ballooned and a selection process for a new head of the bureau was launched. That process is now nearing the finish line, with 16 candidates making it to the final round.

RFE/RLs Schemes Investigative project reached out to the candidates with questions and published some of their responses, highlighting several red flags among the finalists.

Among them: the reported frontrunner, Ruslan Pakhomov, previously worked for a media company owned by Ukraines richest man, Rinat Akhmetov  and once had his bank account closed after the bank flagged it for suspected money laundering.

Stay tuned for more.

Opinion: Backroom deals and battlefield realities: Ukraine at the IMF Spring Meetings

At this years Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank, the fund emphasized the familiar refrain: the need for stronger revenue generation and disciplined fiscal policy, Center for Economic Strategy Deputy Director Maria Repko writes in a recent op-ed for the Kyiv Independent. While essential, these prescriptions have become an almost ritualistic part of Ukraines dialogue with international lenders.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Meanwhile, concerns over Ukraine's debt sustainability continue to loom large, threatening to narrow the space for additional aid. True to form, both the IMF and the World Bank remain skeptical about confiscating frozen Russian assets. With new grants increasingly scarce and debt sustainability concerns limiting access to additional loans, advancing the effort to seize Russian assets remains a critical task Ukraine cannot afford to let slip.

Read the full opinion piece here.

What else is in the news

Ukrainian EdTech company Headway Inc. makes it to top 5 of Time Magazines Top EdTech Companies 2025 rating

Headway Inc. (until recently, just called Headway), an education tech phone application with over 150 million users worldwide, placed fourth on the global list, climbing more than 90 positions above popular apps Coursera, Duolingo, BetterUp in the ranking. The ranking takes into account financial strength and industry impact. Headway Inc. has several apps, including a book summary app that condenses and summarizes mainly self-improvement books that take anywhere from a few minutes to 15 minutes to read or listen to.

Son of ex-Motor Sich president detained in Monaco for $650 million asset theft

Oleksandr Bohuslayev, son of Motor Sich's former president Vyacheslav Bohuslayev, was detained in Monaco on fraud charges linked to a $650 million asset scheme, Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) announced on May 2. Vyacheslav Bohuslayev, the former president of Motor Sich, Ukraine's leading aircraft engine manufacturer, has been in custody since 2022 on charges of collaboration with Russia. Investigators claim Oleksandr Bohuslayev helped his father illegally obtain shares in the strategic defense manufacturer before selling them to third parties. He faces up to 12 years in prison.

Ukroboronprom posts $31.5 million profit as production triples

Ukraine's largest state-owned defense company Ukroboronprom reported a consolidated net profit of Hr 1.31 billion ($31.5 million) for the previous year, the company said on May 2. The company's enterprises tripled production volumes in 2024 compared to 2023, with a 36% increase in contracts. Almost all production (96%) consisted of new or upgraded military equipment in 2024. Ukroboronprom is a leading strategic manufacturer of weapons and military hardware in Ukraine.

In case you missed it

Luxury watches, a collection of 20th-century military uniforms, and a very expensive piano  these are just a few of the intriguing things revealed in the mandatory annual declaration of financial assets submitted by Ukrainian MPs last month. The Kyiv Independent took a look at the declarations of some of Ukraine's most well-known politicians, including President Volodymyr Zelensky himself, to see what they revealed. Read more here.

Subscribe to the Newsletter

Ukraine Business Roundup

Subscribe

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Editors note: This is issue 24 of Ukrainian lawmaker Yaroslav Zhelezniaks weekly "Ukraine Reforms Tracker" covering events from April 28May 4, 2025. The digest highlights steps taken in the Ukrainian parliament related to business, economics, and international financial programs.

The Kyiv Independent is republishing with permission.

Benchmarks and soft commitments with the IMF



Ukraine's government registers draft law to tax digital platforms, fulfilling IMF commitment

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ukraines Cabinet of Ministers has registered draft law #13232, which introduces taxation rules for digital platforms. This draft law was designed to meet an International Monetary Fund structural benchmark that required submission by the end of April 2025.

The proposed legislation designates platform operators as tax agents, requiring them to automatically withhold taxes from individuals earning income through the sale of goods or services on their platforms.

A 5% personal income tax and an additional 5% military levy would apply to relevant transactions.The draft law does not provide for any tax-free threshold.

Experts warn that due to legal ambiguities, the effective tax rate could rise to 23%, rather than the intended 10%. The draft law also includes provisions for lifting banking secrecy, granting tax authorities broader access to financial information.

Obligations to the EU



Parliament again fails to advance judicial reform bill tied to EU assistance

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For the third time, Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine failed to include draft law #13114 on its agenda, falling short of the required threshold.

The bill proposes technical amendments to judicial appointment procedures and updated eligibility rules for judges of the High Anti-Corruption Court (HACC).

The legislation is a requirement under the EUs Ukraine Facility program, linked to the disbursement of 300400 million euros in macro-financial assistance.

Its delay mirrors similar setbacks with the ARMA reform bill, which likewise has yet to be added to the parliamentary agenda despite repeated attempts.

Other key economic issues

Ukrainian parliament to hold emergency session on May 8 to ratify US-Ukraine mineral deal

The Verkhovna Rada will convene a special emergency session on May 8 to vote on the ratification of the Critical Minerals Agreement between Ukraine and the United States.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The U.S. and Ukraine signed the minerals agreement on April 30, paving the way for further American support of Kyiv through a joint investment fund that will contribute to Ukraines reconstruction.

Three international experts appointed to panel overseeing Ukraines state audit appointments

Ukraine has finalized the selection of three international experts who will join a six-member Advisory Expert Group tasked with overseeing the selection of members to the Accounting Chamber, Ukraines state audit body.

The appointed international auditors are:

Igors Ludborzs (Latvia)  member of the European Court of Auditors, certified since 1994;

Pascal Mounier (France)  senior auditor, French Court of Audit, with 24 years of experience;

Lee Summerfield (U.K.)  director, U.K. National Audit Office, with 25 years of experience, including in defense sector audits.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The group will consist of three international and three Ukrainian experts, with voting priority given to international members.

Next steps are the following:

the Cabinet of Ministers (CMU) formally submits the list to parliament;

the Budget Committee prepares a resolution on the groups composition (within one week after receiving a letter from the CMU);

Parliament conducts a rating vote to select Ukrainian experts and approves the resolution on the groups full composition (both are expected during the next plenary week)

Read also: Ukraine Business Roundup  Making sense of the minerals deal

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Ukraine has called on India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and resolve disputes through diplomatic dialogue.

Source: a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

Quote: "At the background of the escalation of the situation between India and Pakistan, we call on both parties to maintain composure and pursue meaningful diplomatic engagement. It is crucial to avoid actions that could further deteriorate the security situation in the South Asian region and instead prioritise diplomatic solutions to all contentious issues.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ukraine actively supports all measures aimed at restoring peace and stability in the region and advocates for the immediate de-escalation of tensions."

Background:

On the night of 67 May, the Indian authorities announced they had struck nine targets in Pakistan as part of "Operation Sindoor".

As a result of Indian strikes on Pakistan, 8 people were killed, including a child, and 38 were injured. India reported that three civilians were killed in a Pakistani attack.

Pakistan also reported it had supposedly shot down five Indian aircraft and one drone.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
Key developments on May 7:

Ukrainian drone strikes hit two Russian defense plants, grounding flights in Moscow, security service says

Kellogg says Ukraine proposed 30-km demilitarized buffer zone, admits Putin main obstacle to ceasefire

Two volunteers die in Ukraine mine-clearing incident, including British aid worker Chris Garrett

Ukrainian drones reportedly hit Russian fiber optic plant in Saransk

Wave of drones target Moscow again, prompting further airport closures

Long-range drones operated by Ukraines Security Service (SBU) struck two key Russian defense industry plants overnight, igniting fires and prompting mass flight disruptions in the Moscow region, sources within the SBU told the Kyiv Independent on May 7.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the SBU, Ukrainian drones targeted the Bazalt plant in Krasnoarmeysk, Moscow Oblast, Russias primary manufacturer of munitions and weaponry for all branches of its military. Residents reported at least seven explosions followed by a large fire at the site.

Simultaneously, another strike hit the Splav plant in Tula, a city located about 180 kilometers (110 miles) south of Moscow. Splav is reportedly the only facility in Russia responsible for designing and producing multiple-launch rocket systems and related ammunition. Footage from the scene appeared to show heavy smoke and flames engulfing part of the facility.

The strikes, according to the SBU, triggered heightened alert measures across the Moscow Oblast, forcing Russian authorities to enact Plan Cover, a security protocol that includes grounding civilian air traffic. Airports across Moscow and the surrounding oblast temporarily shut down, stranding thousands of passengers and forcing airlines to cancel or reroute hundreds of flights.

Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support Us

Kellogg says Ukraine proposed 30-km demilitarized buffer zone, admits Putin main obstacle to ceasefire

Ukraine suggested creating a demilitarized zone jointly controlled by Kyiv and Moscow, U.S. special envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg said in a Fox News interview on May 6.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kellogg described the proposal as a buffer zone with both sides pulling back 15 kilometers, creating a 30-kilometer area monitored by observers from third countries.

He said the arrangement could accompany a ceasefire "in place," meaning both sides would maintain control of the territory they currently occupy.

The proposal contrasts with Russian President Vladimir Putin's demands, which require Ukrainian forces to withdraw from Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson oblasts. Russia claimed to annex the four regions during its full-scale invasion in 2022, but it does not fully control any of them.

Kellogg said the main obstacle to reaching a deal is Putin's refusal to accept a ceasefire.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I think we're close. The one man who can deliver it, I believe, is President (Donald) Trump, as long as Putin agrees. And that's one of our, probably our, impediments to progress  the president of Russia right now not agreeing to it," Kellogg said.

Responding to Kellogg's statement, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Moscow has not received any proposals from Kyiv regarding the establishment of a demilitarized zone along the front line, Russian state news agency TASS reported.

Read also: Without mentioning his name, Biden calls Trumps pressure on Ukraine modern-day appeasement towards Russia

Two volunteers die in Ukraine mine-clearing incident, including British aid worker Chris Garrett

Two volunteers, including British humanitarian and mine disposal expert Chris Garrett, died in an explosion near the eastern Ukrainian town of Izium, Kharkiv Oblast, the charity Prevail Humanitarian Aid confirmed on May 7.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Shaun Pinner, a former British soldier and Ukrainian marine, posted the news on X on behalf of the charity, where Garrett served as founder and chairman.

Prevail provides support to Ukrainian government agencies with landmine/unexploded ordnance clearance, trauma medical care, and humanitarian assistance.

"On May 6, Prevail received the devastating news that our Founder and Chairman, Chris Garrett alongside other team members were severely injured in an incident near Izium," Pinner wrote. "We are still gathering information and working alongside military and police officials to uncover the details."

In a follow-up message, Pinner confirmed that Garrett was among two individuals who had died from injuries sustained in the incident. "It has now been confirmed that two of the three critically injured individuals have sadly passed away. I can confirm that Chris was among those who died," he wrote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pinner said further updates would be provided as investigations proceed. "We cant and will not comment during an ongoing investigation," the statement read.

Ukrainian drones reportedly hit Russian fiber optic plant in Saransk

Ukrainian drones struck the Optic Fiber Systems plant in Saransk, Mordovia Republic, Russian independent outlet Astra reported on May 7.

Two fires broke out in Saransk following the drone attack. One fire erupted at the Optic Fiber Systems plant, while the second ignited a few kilometers away, reportedly at the Saranskkabel plant.

Local residents told the pro-Kremlin Telegram channel Shot that several powerful explosions shook the city's industrial district around 6 a.m.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The fiber optic systems plant in Saransk was very seriously damaged after the strike," Andrii Kovalenko, an official at Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council, said on May 7.

Kovalenko claimed the factory supplied the Russian army with materials for the production of fiber-optic drones, which are resistant to electronic warfare interference, and said the shutdown of the factory was now a possibility.

The Kyiv Independent could not verify the claims. The potential consequences of the attack on the Saranskkabel plant remain unknown.

Read also: Theater, drag shows, and art studios  Kharkivs cultural scene thrives, even in wartime (Photos)

Wave of drones target Moscow again, prompting further airport closures

Russian air defense forces allegedly intercepted several Ukrainian drones headed toward Moscow, the city's Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said on May 7, becoming the latest in a wave of drone incursions targeting the Russian capital ahead of Victory Day celebrations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Air defense forces of the Defense Ministry repelled another drone attack on Moscow," Sobyanin wrote on Telegram, noting that debris fell in multiple areas where emergency crews are now working. He later confirmed that at least seven drones were shot down over the course of the evening.

The Kyiv Independent couldn't independently verify these claims.

This latest wave of drones prompted renewed temporary airport closures across the region. Russias Federal Air Transport Agency announced that flight operations were suspended from 7:15 p.m. local time at Domodedovo Airport, the biggest one in Moscow, as well as at Zhukovsky, and Kaluga airports, whose operations were suspended earlier.

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.
Russia launched 5 ballistic missiles and 187 drones on Ukraine on the night of 6 May and the morning of 7 May. Ukrainian air defence systems destroyed 2 ballistic missiles and 81 Russian drones, while 64 decoy drones went off radar.

Source: press service of the Air Force Command on social media

Details: From 20:30 on 6 May to 13:30 on 7 May, Russian forces launched five Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles from the directions of Russia's Kursk, Taganrog and Bryansk, conducting several waves of drone attacks, which involved 187 strike UAVs and decoy drones launched from the Russian cities of Bryansk, Kursk, Oryol, Millerovo, Primorsko-Akhtarsk and the city of Hvardiiske in occupied Crimea.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As of 14:30, the downing of two Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles and 81 Shahed-type strike drones (and other UAVs) was confirmed over eastern, northern, southern and central parts of Ukraine.

Another 64 decoy drone disappeared from radar without causing any adverse effects.

The Russian attack affected Kyiv, Sumy, Zhytomyr, Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia oblasts.

Ukraines defence forces repelled the aerial assault using fighter aircraft, anti-aircraft missile units, electronic warfare systems and mobile fire teams.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
Soldiers of the 3rd Brigade of Ukraines National Guard, also known as the Spartan Brigade, have shared how they stopped an attempt by Russian forces to approach Ukrainian positions by swimming.

Source: video by the Spartan Brigade

Details: The soldiers said they had previously repelled various Russian assaults involving infantry, armoured vehicles, motorcycles and quad bikes. However, this time, the Russians managed to surprise even the experienced Spartans.

Quote: "On the Pokrovsk front, the occupiers, suffering heavy losses, decided to approach Ukrainian positions in a last-ditch effort through a body of water.

Our drones escorted the failed divers. And so, the occupiers failed this swimming test."

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
Long-range drones operated by Ukraines Security Service (SBU) struck two key Russian defense industry plants overnight, igniting fires and prompting mass flight disruptions in the Moscow region, sources within the SBU told the Kyiv Independent on May 7.

According to the SBU, Ukrainian drones targeted the Bazalt plant in Krasnoarmeysk, Moscow Oblast, Russias primary manufacturer of munitions and weaponry for all branches of its military. Residents reported at least seven explosions followed by a large fire at the site.

Simultaneously, another strike hit the Splav plant in Tula, a city located about 180 kilometers (110 miles) south of Moscow. Splav is reportedly the only facility in Russia responsible for designing and producing multiple-launch rocket systems and related ammunition. Footage from the scene appeared to show heavy smoke and flames engulfing part of the facility.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

0:00

/

1

The strikes, according to the SBU, triggered heightened alert measures across the Moscow Oblast, forcing Russian authorities to enact Plan Cover, a security protocol that includes grounding civilian air traffic. Airports across Moscow and the surrounding oblast temporarily shut down, stranding thousands of passengers and forcing airlines to cancel or reroute hundreds of flights.

Pro-Kremlin sources, including the Telegram channel Mash, reported a near-total collapse of air operations across Moscow airports on the night of May 7. Around 350 flights were reportedly affected, with over 60,000 passengers impacted, according to the Association of Tour Operators of Russia. Some passengers were forced to wait on board planes for hours without food or clear information.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The disruption comes just two days before Russias annual Victory Day parade on May 9, a central propaganda event for Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Separately, Ukrainian drone strikes on May 7 reportedly damaged the Optic Fiber Systems plant in Saransk, Republic of Mordovia, according to independent Russian outlet Astra and Ukrainian security officials. The facility, which produces fiber for Russian military drones, suffered serious damage, said Andrii Kovalenko, an official with Ukraines National Security and Defense Council.

A second fire broke out nearby at the Saranskkabel plant. Local residents described hearing powerful explosions around 6 a.m. in the citys industrial zone. Russian authorities have banned the publication of images or video from the attack sites.

The Kyiv Independent was unable to independently verify these claims.

Read also: Moscow releases guest list for Victory Day parade

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
(Reuters) -A Credit Suisse unit on Monday pleaded guilty to U.S. charges of helping ultra-wealthy Americans evade taxes and will pay a fine of more than $510 million, the U.S. Department of Justice said on Monday.

Credit Suisse Services AG pleaded guilty and was sentenced on Monday for conspiring to hide more than $4 billion from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service in at least 475 offshore accounts, the department said.

The guilty plea stems from the Swiss bank maintaining accounts in Singapore on behalf of U.S. taxpayers who were using offshore accounts to evade U.S. taxes and reporting requirements, according to the release.

"Among other fraudulent acts, bankers at Credit Suisse falsified records, processed fictitious donation paperwork, and serviced more than $1 billion in accounts without documentation of tax compliance," the Justice Department said. "In doing so, Credit Suisse AG committed new crimes and breached its May 2014 plea agreement with the United States."

In 2014, Credit Suisse became the largest bank in 20 years to plead guilty to a U.S. criminal charge, agreeing to pay a $2.5 billion fine for helping Americans evade taxes in a conspiracy that spanned decades.

Prior to Monday's settlement, the U.S. Senate Finance Committee in 2023 had found Credit Suisse violated its 2014 deal made with U.S. authorities by continuing to help with the tax evasion and concealing more than $700 million from the government.

UBS said on Monday that Credit Suisse Services AG pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to aid and assist in the preparation of false income tax returns.

UBS said it was not involved in the underlying conduct, which began before its acquisition of Credit Suisse in 2023.

The Swiss lender had accounted for the issue as a contingent liability when acquiring Credit Suisse, and expects this to be partially released as a credit in the second quarter.

Simultaneously, the bank also expects to record a charge related to the payment in the quarter.

In addition to the guilty plea and fine, Credit Suisse Services entered into a non-prosecution agreement that requires it and UBS to cooperate with investigations and affirmatively disclose any information it may later uncover regarding U.S.-related accounts, the Justice Department said.

(Reporting by Ryan Patrick Jones and Urvi Dugar; Editing by Leroy Leo and Stephen Coates)
Ukrainian drone attacks have caused major flight chaos in Russia, with delays, diversions and cancellations affecting at least 60,000 travellers on Wednesday, according to the Russian tourism association ATOR.

Airports in Moscow, in particular, experienced issues ahead of planned celebrations to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

At Sheremetyevo Airport, Russia's largest airport, 40 flights have so far been cancelled. Another 60 aircraft scheduled to land there were diverted to airports hundreds of kilometres away, such as Pulkovo Airport in St Petersburg.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At least 50 flights were delayed by an hour or more. Nationwide, 350 departures have been affected so far, ATOR said.

International flights also disrupted

The number of affected flights is expected to rise further. "These cancellations and delays are not the end of the matter due to the nature of flight schedules. Aircraft that fail to arrive at their destinations on time will, in turn, delay subsequent flights," the association's statement read.

The Russian Defence Ministry reported the downing of 524 drones within a single day, which it described as a record.

The ministry made the announcement as Russia, which launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine more than three years ago and continues to shell the country daily, prepares to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's defeat of Nazi Germany with a grand military parade on Friday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Russian President Vladimir Putin is also expected to host international state guests at the event.

Three-day ceasefire to take effect

Ahead of the celebrations, Putin announced a temporary three-day ceasefire in Ukraine beginning Thursday.

Ukraine has dismissed the move as symbolic and, along with the United States, continues to call for a minimum 30-day ceasefire.

Meanwhile US Ukraine envoy Keith Kellogg told Fox News that Ukraine has suggested a demilitarized zone, in remarks that have not been confirmed by the Ukrainian government in Kiev.

Ukraine is allegedly prepared to freeze fighting with Russia in its current positions and establish a 30-kilometre-wide security strip, Kellogg told Fox News on Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Another proposal is that European countries such as France, Britain, Germany and others should monitor the airspace west of the Dnipro River.

There has been no confirmation of this information from Ukraine. In Moscow, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia had heard nothing from the US about a Ukrainian proposal for a demilitarized zone.

Several Russian regions hit by drones

Ukrainian drone attacks hit several Russian regions overnight, including the Moscow area, the southern regions of Kaluga and Tula, the northern region of Yaroslavl and the republic of Mordovia, Russian media reported on Wednesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In Saransk, the capital of Mordovia, the authorities reportedly closed all kindergartens, schools and universities because of the drone attacks. Videos of fires in the city circulated on social media.

No damage has been officially reported. However, the independent internet portal Astra said the strikes hit a factory for fibre optics and a machinery plant, which is important for military production.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian media reported that the Splav arms factory in Tula had been hit.

Ukrainian media said two military airfields were also hit, one in Kubinka in the Moscow region, and another in Shaikovka in the region of Kaluga.

Major mobile internet problems

Moscow residents can expect internet problems up to and including Saturday, the Kremlin said on Wednesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There may be restrictions while state guests are in Moscow for the celebrations marking the victory over Nazi Germany 80 years ago, according to spokesman Dmitry Peskov

"These are restrictions on the functioning of the mobile internet - for understandable reasons," Peskov told Russian news agencies.

"We have to take into account the dangerous neighbourhood we are in," he said.

Complaints about temporary mobile internet outages have been growing for days, especially in the capital.

Two reported killed in Kiev

Back in Ukraine, at least two people were killed after debris from downed drones hit residential buildings in Kiev overnight, sparking fires across several districts, the civil protection agency and Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Wednesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The victims were found as firefighters tried to put out blazes in apartments which started after drone parts crashed into a five-storey residential building. Meanwhile, air raid sirens continued to sound in the capital in the morning, with Klitschko instructing residents to take cover.

Klitschko said that eight other people were also injured, including four children. The civil defence authorities spoke of five injured. Teymur Tkachenko, head of the city's military administration, also spoke of five injured on Telegram.
Ukrainian drones struck the Optic Fiber Systems plant in Saransk, Mordovia Republic, Russian independent outlet Astra reported on May 7.

Two fires broke out in Saransk following the drone attack. One fire erupted at the Optic Fiber Systems plant, while the second ignited a few kilometers away, reportedly at the Saranskkabel plant.

Local residents told the pro-Kremlin Telegram channel Shot that several powerful explosions shook the city's industrial district around 6 a.m.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The fiber optic systems plant in Saransk was very seriously damaged after the strike," Andrii Kovalenko, an official at Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council, said on May 7.

Kovalenko claimed the factory supplied the Russian army with materials for the production of fiber-optic drones, which are resistant to electronic warfare interference, and said the shutdown of the factory was now a possibility.

Optical Fiber Systems JSC plant on fire in Saransk after Ukrainian drone strike  ASTRA analysis



According to ASTRAs analysis of eyewitness footage from one of the fires in Saransk, the citys optical fiber manufacturing plant is once again on fire.



Optical Fiber Systems JSC pic.twitter.com/sppeiNbTNi  ASTRA (@ASTRA_PRESS) May 7, 2025

The Kyiv Independent could not verify the claims. The potential consequences of the attack on the Saranskkabel plant remain unknown.

The operational headquarters of Mordovia banned the publication of photos and videos showing the aftermath of the attack.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Optic Fiber Systems plant, with an annual capacity of 4 million kilometers of fiber, also supplies major Russian telecom operators.

The facility was also targeted on April 4, when Ukrainian drones struck fiber-optic and explosives factories across Russia.

Saransk lies about 630 kilometers (around 390 miles) east of Moscow and roughly 1000 kilometers (620 miles) from the nearest point on the RussiaUkraine border.

Read also: Kellogg says Ukraine proposed 30-km demilitarized buffer zone, admits Putin main obstacle to ceasefire

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Female soldiers and civilians who sustained injuries and amputations as a result of the Russo-Ukrainian war have taken part in a photoshoot for Playboy Ukraine.

Source: Ukrainska Pravda. Zhyttia (Life)

Details: The magazine has released a special edition featuring the Beauty with Scars photo project, which tells the stories of women who have survived war, injury and rehabilitation.

The issue features servicewomen Anastasiia Savka, alias Phoenix, Yana Zalevska, alias Multyk, and Kristina Sanina, as well as wounded civilians Nadiia Oksiuta and Olha Diatliuk.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The photos were taken by renowned photographer Kostiantyn Liberov.

The cover of the special issue features Anastasiia Savka.

Photo: Kostiantyn Liberov/Playboy Ukraine

The creators of the Beauty with Scars project stated that the goal of the issue was to highlight female strength and beauty that "do not vanish after injury" and to help women embrace themselves after injury.

"They look into the lens and the mirror to say: I am here. I am beautiful and worthy of love. This beauty is not for comparison. It is to inspire," Playboy wrote.

The project seeks to rethink the concept of female beauty after injury and give visibility to those who have endured war.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For the photoshoot, the women wore dresses by Ukrainian designers and jewellery from the Love Is Worth Everything collection by the We Are of One Blood project.

Who are the women featured in the project

Anastasiia Savka.

Photo: Kostiantyn Liberov/Playboy Ukraine

Anastasiia Savka from Lviv is a sniper and laureate of the UP100. Power of Women award.

Before the full-scale war, she raised her son Yarema and worked at a car service salon. Following Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, she became a sniper with the 118th Brigade.

On 28 November 2023, Anastasiia hit a mine on the Zaporizhzhia front and lost her leg. Later, she adapted to using a prosthetic.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In summer 2024, Anastasiia became engaged to veteran Oleksii Levchenko, whom she met during rehabilitation at the Superhumans centre.

Yana Zalevska, alias Multyk, is an FPV drone operator in the 59th Separate Motorised Infantry Brigade named after Yakiv Handziuk.

Before the full-scale invasion, she lived in the city of Kherson, was on maternity leave and studied to become a massage therapist. After living under occupation for 1.5 months, she decided to join the Armed Forces.

Yana Zalevska.

Photo: Kostiantyn Liberov/Playboy Ukraine

Yana served as a military journalist, combat medic, and later retrained as a drone operator.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On 4 August 2024, Yana sustained serious injuries in a Russian drone attack  shrapnel wounded her face and body. However, she plans to return to service after rehabilitation.

Kristina Sanina.

Photo: Kostiantyn Liberov/Playboy Ukraine

Kristina Sanina is a captain in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, a veteran and the mother of a young daughter.

She lost both legs and is now undergoing rehabilitation at the Tytanovi centre, where she also supports other wounded soldiers.

Kristina became the first woman in Ukraine to receive prosthetics using an osseointegration method, where a titanium implant is inserted into the bone.

Olha Diatliuk.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Photo: Kostiantyn Liberov/Playboy Ukraine

Olha Diatliuk from the city of Vinnytsia is a businesswoman, mother of two and the widow of a fallen soldier. She survived the missile strike on Vinnytsia on 14 July 2022.

Olha was injured during a Russian attack on the House of Officers and a hospital in central Vinnytsia.

She managed to escape the burning building and survived, sustaining severe burns, rib fractures and a contusion. Olha underwent long-term treatment and rehabilitation through the Unburned charity project.

In August 2023, her husband Yurii Diatliuk, a soldier of the 95th Air Assault Brigade, was killed in action in Donetsk Oblast. Since then, Olha has been supporting other women who lost their partners in the war.

Nadiia Oksiuta.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Photo: Kostiantyn Liberov/Playboy Ukraine

Nadiia Oksiuta is a videographer, content creator and mother of a young daughter.

On 18 January 2023, Nadiia was taking her daughter to kindergarten in the city of Brovary in Kyiv Oblast when they found themselves near the helicopter crash scene that killed Ukraines Interior Ministry leadership.

Both Nadiia and her daughter suffered burns to their faces and limbs. They underwent long treatment first in Kyiv and Lviv, and later in Austria.

Nadiia later joined the Unburned charity project, where medics continue to help her improve the condition of her scars.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We are alive  thats what matters. Those were the first words I said to my daughter Alisa two years ago after we escaped the fire," Nadiia wrote. "Many people say it was our second birthday For me, it was a hard day. But I didnt give up, didnt fade away. This tragedy didnt break me. I accepted myself, my appearance and condition. I show Alisa by my example that everything will be alright."

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
AURORA, Colo. (KDVR)  The Aurora Police Department has sharpened its message regarding street racing and dangerous driving.

What happened this weekend with a coordinated crackdown certainly got a lot of attention.

Just before 8 p.m. Sunday, officers spotted a gray pickup doing donuts and burnouts on private property near 40th Avenue. They say three people were inside, including one in the bed of the truck.

A teenager was arrested and two others were issued trespassing summons after an alleged street racing incident in Aurora Sunday that led to a police pursuit through Denver. (Courtesy of the Aurora Police Department) A teenager was arrested and two others were issued trespassing summons after an alleged street racing incident in Aurora Sunday that led to a police pursuit through Denver. (Courtesy of the Aurora Police Department)

As officers approached, the truck blew out both rear tires and the driver took off. That led police on a chase through Denver. It ended when the pickup crashed into a median on Interstate 25 at Colorado Boulevard.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox

We have heard you. We have heard the concerns, and we are being decisive on this action, said Matt Brukbacher, commander with APD.

He says APD has always kept an eye out for speed racing, but now they are taking a much stronger enforcement approach. The Street Racing Task Force is made up of 10 to 20 officers.

Sunday was the first example of a new posture by the APD when it comes to enforcing law violators related to street racing, said Brukbacher.

Although the rain made it difficult to make out, tire tracks could still be seen in the parking lot of the warehouse district two days after the incident.

Tire tracks left from street racing. (KDVR)

It affects the community in so many different ways. Not only peoples perceptions of their safety but we also have to look at it from the perspective of these people who own property, said Brukbacher. The damage to their parking lot is thousands of dollars to repair the damage for one street racing incident. Its unacceptable.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I think it goes into the intent of these individuals to get away from police, they want to do what they want to do, and they dont care about the law, and its our responsibility to make them care, he said.

Federal investigation leads to 5 indicted on fentanyl distribution charges in Colorado

The 19-year-old driver was arrested on multiple charges, including felony eluding and reckless driving.

The two passengers, ages 18 and 19, were both issued trespassing summonses.

I hope parents start talking to their kids about this because its dangerous all on its own but they are not listening so how do we make them listen? Well, this is one way. Were going to use the full extent of the law and enforce that law, said Brukbacher. Were not going to just be showing up in a marked car. Were going to have a coordinated and communicated objective. Were going to go in find violators, were going to cite them. We may arrest them and frankly were going to be seizing their cars as evidence for a crime if its applicable.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That car will stay with us until the completion of the criminal justice process which could be months. For someone still making payments on their car or specifically, Im going to talk to mom and dad right now with kids engaging in this type of activity, Brukbacher continued. If your car is at risk, the likelihood of us seizing your car and holding onto it as evidence of a crime is really high. If thats the family car or if you guys use it to get kids to school, youre not going to have it potentially for months.

Police say were going to see a lot more of this type of enforcement when it pertains to street racing. If you know of any illegal street racing happening or if you witness it, you can report it anonymously to reportstreetracing.com.

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.
CORNING, N.Y. (WETM)  Members of the union representing healthcare workers at the Guthrie Corning Hospital have voted to approve a new contract agreement, as stated in a release from the Guthrie Clinic on Wednesday.

On Wednesday, May 7, the Guthrie Clinic announced that members of the 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East voted to approve a new three-year contract with Guthrie Corning Hospital following an agreement that was made between the two on April 30.

Previous story: Agreement reached between healthcare workers and Guthrie Corning Hospital, picket avoided

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The vote comes after discussions began between the union and the hospital in mid-March to establish a new contract agreement better suited for healthcare workers. While bargaining for a new contract, healthcare workers expressed a need for improved staff levels, quality and affordable health insurance and competitive wages to help maintain and recruit more workers.

Discussions regarding the contract went on for days as members of the union prepared to hold an informational picket if an agreement wasnt secured. According to previous reports, the agreement was made late on the night of April 30, just hours before the previous contract was set to expire.

We are grateful to have reached consensus on key points, including fair enhancements for caregivers in the union, said Paul VerValin, President of Guthrie Corning Hospital. We look forward to working with union members and all caregivers at Corning Hospital on our shared mission  continuing to provide high-quality, safe care and experience for our patients for the next three years and beyond, VerValin 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 WETM - MyTwinTiers.com.
A United Airlines plane leaving San Francisco International Airport clipped wings with another United plane on Tuesday morning, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

"While United Airlines Flight 863 was pushing back from the gate at San Francisco International Airport, its right wingtip struck the left wingtip of United Airlines Flight 877," The FAA told Fox News Digital.

According to the FAA  which said it was investigating the incident  the collision occurred around 12:35 am in a part of the airport where air traffic controllers don't communicate with flight crews.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The FAA said that Flight 863 was heading to Sydney, Australia, and that Flight 877 was departing for Hong Kong.

United Airlines confirmed in a statement that no one was injured as a result of the collision.

A pair of United Airlines planes bumped their wingtips together at the San Francisco International Airport on May 6, 2025 (Reuters)

"A United aircraft made contact with the wing of another United aircraft while pushing back from a gate at San Francisco International Airport. No injuries occurred and passengers on both planes deplaned normally. We are working with our customers to rebook them on other flights," the airline said in a statement.

Both planes involved in the incident are Boeing 777s.

The minor collision is the latest in a stretch of unsettling aircraft incidents ranging from near misses on runways to the horrifying and tragic airplane and helicopter collision that killed 67 over the Potomac River in January.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last month, a few members of Congress had their own close call when an airplane at DCA  Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington, DC  bumped the wing of the plane they had boarded.

"Serving in Congress has come with some once in a lifetime experiences like just now while stationary on the runway at DCA, another plane just bumped into our wing. Heading back to the gate, but thankfully everyone is ok! (And @RepGraceMeng is handing out grapes!)," Congressman Nick LaLota of New York wrote in an X post.

In that instance, the wing of American Airlines Flight 5490 struck the wingtip of American Airlines Flight 4522 while it was taxiing on April 10.

President Donald Trump directed Tesla CEO Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency to gut the federal workforce, and in doing so, thousands of workers were either cut from or voluntarily left  at the urging of Musk  the Department of Transportation, which includes the FAA.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The firings come at a time when many Americans are already feeling anxiety over the safety of air travel and airports are working through staffing shortages. A lack of staff at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey led to major delays for seven straight days this month.

First responders work at the scene after a small plane crashed in Philadelphia, Friday, Jan. 31, 2025 (AP)

But there are more than just workforce issues. A medical transport plane crashed in Philadelphia, killing a child and medical workers and destroying a home in January. Two days later, a United Airlines plane caught fire on the tarmac in Houston. A few days after that, a small commercial plane crashed in Alaska, killing all 10 of the people on board.

Less than a month after the collision that killed 67 people over the Potomac, Reagan National almost saw another tragedy when an American Airlines flight almost hit a Delta Flight. Then it happened again almost a month later when a military jet preparing to land and a Delta plane preparing to take off had to be given last-second instructions to prevent a collision.

Last month, a tour helicopter crashed into the Hudson River, killing a family that included three children and a former Navy SEAL who was piloting the craft.

Despite all of the focus on air travel incidents, flying is still extremely safe. The vast majority of fliers get to their destinations without incident.
Century Tower at the University of Florida, via UF.

The University of Florida presidential search committee proposed a single finalist to fill the vacancy left by former President Ben Sasse: University of Michigan President Santa Ono.

Ono appeared in Gainesville Tuesday at forums for faculty, students, and administrators, where he said he was ideologically in line with Gov. Ron DeSantis and university trustees on diversity policy, Politico reported.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

DeSantis, who has involved himself deeply in earlier university presidential searches, particularly pushing political allies for these jobs, said Wednesday that he does not know Ono, nor was he involved in advancing the Michigan presidents candidacy.

There can be no ambiguity; I dont think anybody is going to be unclear about what the expectations are in the state of Florida with respect to higher education. We reject woke indoctrination, DeSantis said Wednesday during a roundtable discussion about property taxes in Tampa.

DeSantis recent involvement include trying (unsuccessfully) to install now-U.S. Rep. Randy Fine (then a member of the Legislature) in the presidents office at Florida Atlantic University; his office reaching out to Florida International University to advocate for former Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nunez for interim president there; and, especially topical this week, guiding Sasse to UF, Politico reported.

Hes also paid particular attention to overhauling New College of Florida and, more recently, the University of West Florida, in favor of more conservative approaches.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

DeSantis has taken pride in placing candidates at universities, saying he was elected in-part for his vision for education.

We were the first state in the country to eliminate DE and I from our public universities. Weve done more than any state to restore the mission of universities to the classical sense of what a university should be, DeSantis said. Those expectations are clear, and I dont think that a candidate would have been selected who was not going to abide by those expectations.

DeSantis said it would have unthinkable five or 10 years ago that Florida would land the president of the University of Michigan, one of the highest ranked public institutions.

Some Florida Republicans have expressed concerns over Onos history.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, a Republican candidate for governor, on Fox Business Tuesday evening said Ono does not comport with the values of the state of Florida, reacting to Onos past comments about Michigans DEI 2.0 initiative. He said at the time that the university should strive to nurture thoughtful and understanding citizens and that racism is one of Americas original sins.

Its time to go back to the drawing board, Donalds said, and called for Ono to be blocked and the search to start over.

Despite Onos support for the DEI 2.0 initiative, the university closed its DEI office under his leadership, Michigan Advance reported. Onos tenure saw protests over Israels war against Hamas in Gaza and accusations that administrators discriminated against pro-Palestinian activists.

Christopher Rufo, a conservative activist and trustee at New College, said on X that UF trustees should ask Ono hard questions about his recent support for DEI and climate radicalism.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rufo called Ono a left-wing administrator and said Florida deserves better than a standard-issue college president. Republican state Rep. Berny Jacques responded to Rufos post, saying, very concerning.

DeSantis said he would let the search play out, and I dont think that anyone would want to come the University of Florida if your goal was to pursue a woke agenda. Youre going to run into a brick wall here in the state of Florida.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

Sasse

Sasse was the sole finalist for the UF presidency in 2023 and his arrival on campus was met with protests. His exit was marred by reporting and, later, state audits concluding that he spent lavishly on parties and paid his former U.S. Senate staffers high salaries in remote UF jobs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Florida law requires a shortlist of final candidates. Some people, including the co-sponsor of the law, argued UF violated the spirit of the shortlist by making the list as short as one.

Florida law shields searches from the public.

Rahul Patel, chair of the presidential search committee and chair of the UF Board of Trustees, advocated for confidentiality in the search.

Patel, in an opinion column to the Tampa Bay Times Tuesday signed by all the members of the search committee, said proffering two or more finalists makes sense.

But the regulations also allow flexibility in cases of exceptional circumstances where selecting multiple finalists is infeasible  and this was one of those cases.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This search was one of those moments that allows for discretion in exceptional cases, Patel wrote.

Patel, and opponents of the 2022 law, argue that shielding searches allows for more candidates to feel comfortable applying if their existing institution likely wouldnt become aware they were looking to leave.

This search attracted a broad and impressive pool of candidates from across the landscape of higher education  including, notably, multiple sitting presidents of major research universities, Patel wrote.

That alone is a powerful reflection of UFs rising national stature and the appeal of this opportunity. But every one of those sitting presidents made it clear: they would only participate if the process guaranteed confidentiality and their name would not be released publicly unless they were the sole finalist.

Proposal to bring searches into the sunshine

The Florida Legislature, which concluded the non-budget portion of its regular session last week, did not change presidential search laws despite continued debates about doing so.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rep. Michelle Salzman and Sen. Alexis Calatayud introduced bills to bring presidential searches back into the sunshine, although after several amendments and passing the House twice, provisions related to searches never made it to the governors desk. DeSantis said he would veto the proposals, anyway.

Identical when introduced, the House proposal (HB 1321) was eventually amended to prohibit the governor from communicating with search stakeholders while the Senate version (SB 1726) was amended to keep searches in the dark but wouldve required at least three finalists.

The governor, in several press conferences, railed against the proposals, particularly the Houses. House Speaker Daniel Perez pushed back against existing law, calling the secret process a spoil system.

Salzman did not respond to Phoenix requests for comment.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
Chellgren Hall at the University of Kentucky was the scene of an alleged sexual assault in September 2024. (University of Kentucky photo)

The Kentucky Kernel, the student newspaper at the University of Kentucky, said the university has provided it with requested public records after a court order.

In a Wednesday story, the newspaper reported UK provided documents a student editor requested following an alleged rape in one of the campus dorms in September. The Kernel sought access to records of all non-student guests who signed into the dorm on Sept. 20 following multiple reports of sexual assault on campus during the fall semester.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

UK initially denied the newspapers open records request, arguing the documents were protected by personal privacy exemptions. The Kernel filed a lawsuit against UK in Fayette Circuit Court to gain access to the records.

Judge Thomas L. Travis ruled last month that UK must provide the records to the Kernel that show when the alleged perpetrator in the September incident signed into and out of the dorm. Other names of students and guests could be redacted from the records, the judge said.

We complied with the Courts ruling, UK spokesperson Jay Blanton said in a statement to the Kentucky Lantern. We are pleased that the Court recognized the need to redact so as to account for legitimate privacy concerns associated with disclosure of the names of both guests and hosts alike. Throughout this litigation, the university has insisted that it must protect the privacy of student residents and their guests.

Michael Abate, who frequently represents Kentucky media outlets in open government lawsuits, represented the Kernel in the case.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Were very pleased that the court ruled these records had to be released and were glad to finally have them, Abate told the Kernel. We dont understand why the university fought so hard to keep this information from the public, but we do think that it raises some questions as to whether the visitor policy in the dorms is being consistently and strictly enforced.

Abbey Cutrer, the Kernels editor in chief who requested the records from UK, previously told the Lantern that the records could shine light on whether the university was following its protocols for residence hall security.

UK and the Kernel have previously duked it over access to public records. In 2021, the Kentucky Supreme Court ruled in favor of the newspaper which sought records from UK regarding a sexual misconduct case involving a former professor. That lawsuit lasted five years.
Santa Ono, who has led the University of Michigan since 2022, is the sole finalist to become president of the University of Florida, UF announced Sunday.

A presidential-search committee recommended that the UF Board of Trustees approve Ono after a search that began last year following the abrupt resignation of former President Ben Sasse. Kent Fuchs, a former UF president, has served as interim president.

Throughout an extensive and thorough process, we sought a leader who could match UFs extraordinary momentum, understand its role as the flagship university of one of the most dynamic states in the country and inspire our community to reach even greater heights, Rahul Patel, a UF trustee and chairman of the search committee, said in a prepared statement Sunday. Dr. Onos proven record of academic excellence, innovation and collaborative leadership at world-class institutions made him our unanimous choice.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ono, who has a doctorate in experimental medicine from McGill University in Canada, served as president of the University of Cincinnati and the University of British Columbia before becoming president of the University of Michigan.

Ono is scheduled to visit the Gainesville campus Tuesday for forums with students, faculty members and administrators, according to Sundays announcement. If approved by the UF Board of Trustees, his selection would need confirmation from the state university systems Board of Governors.

Sasse, a former U.S. senator from Nebraska, served less than two years as president before announcing last summer he would step down because of his wifes health. Subsequent reporting by the Independent Florida Alligator student newspaper raised questions about issues such as spending on travel and high-level employees who did not live in Florida. Sasse denied inappropriate spending.

Sundays announcement came after the Florida House this spring unsuccessfully sought to revamp laws about college and university presidential searches, including trying to repeal a 2022 law that provided exemptions to public-records and public-meetings laws for information about most candidates for presidencies. Under the law, only information about finalists for the positions is released.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The House proposal died Friday when the Senate did not take it up before lawmakers finished most business of this years legislative session.

The UF announcement Sunday said the search committee was responsible for designing the search criteria, identifying and vetting a broad pool of qualified candidates, and recommending finalists to the Board of Trustees. It did not provide information about other candidates.

Members of the search committee were announced in October.

The university system has seen heavy turnover in presidents in recent years. Former state House Majority Leader Adam Hasner was selected in February to become president of Florida Atlantic University, while former Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nunez was named interim president of Florida International University.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last month, Florida A&M University announced the names of four finalists to become its president. In addition, University of South Florida President Rhea Law has announced she is stepping down.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
As of April 1, more than 90,000 MU Health Care patients were left out of network after the two sides were unable to reach an agreement (Getty Images).

The fallout from the failed contract negotiations between University of Missouri Health Care and Anthem is rippling far beyond Columbia  reaching counties more than 100 miles away.

As of April 1, more than 90,000 MU Health Care patients were left out of network after the two sides were unable to reach an agreement. MU Health Care serves patients in each of Missouris 114 counties. While the effects are immediate for patients in Columbia and nearby areas who use the health care system, the disruption is statewide, driving up care costs for employees across the state.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Ozarks Schools Benefits Association, or OSBA, is a self-funded cooperative consortium for health care purposes. It provides employee benefits to public school districts across Missouri. It offers a range of insurance options including medical, dental, vision and life coverage at competitive rates by pooling resources from member districts.

OSBA, which represents more than 120 school districts across Missouri, could face future challenges as a result of the failed negotiations between MU Health Care and Anthem. Tim Ryan, OSBA president and superintendent of the Dallas County R-I School District in Buffalo, Missouri, explained how the breakdown may affect the association moving forward.

Ultimately all of those (medical) bills that are paid out come from a self-funded plan, Ryan said. So even though my district doesnt necessarily  use that system, overall we share the same funds in our health care plan.

The failed negotiations will impact rates in the future, Ryan said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As we look to future years, we might have higher rate increases just based on this negotiation between Anthem and MU, he said. Because ultimately it comes down to what we have in our reserves, and what is our anticipated cost for the upcoming year. So we might have larger increases in the future which would be the biggest piece that has an impact on all 120 school districts in our association.

Some Anthem members receiving intensive or ongoing treatment may still qualify for in-network rates at MU Health Care through a continuity-of-care plan, which provides a minimum 90-day window to apply.

Ultimately its going to cost our association more for any individual that receives health care through the MU Health Care system, Ryan said.

Ryan is confident that Anthem and MU Health Care will reach an agreement eventually.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its a bottom line issue, he said. We all share the funds, so ultimately there will be some sort of a rate increase in the future due to this more than likely, unless we can find other ways to reduce costs.

MU Health Care spokesperson Eric Maze said the health care system does not expect an agreement with Anthem in the future.

We are not optimistic that we will reach an agreement with Anthem in the foreseeable future, Maze said. The most recent proposal we received from Anthem doesnt differ meaningfully from what they offered in fall 2024 or from the terms of the agreement that ended in March.

More specifically, it doesnt address the increases in expenses that MU Health Care and other health systems are experiencing, parity with the rates paid by other managed care companies in the region or parity with the rates Anthem pays other academic health systems, he added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Maze pointed to rising premiums over the past decade as evidence of a growing disconnect between what employers pay and what providers receive.

He explained in regard to employee benefit increases, the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurances 2023 Health Insurance Market Report outlined how Anthem and its peers increased annual premiums to employer groups by as much as 37% over the last decade, but they did not pass on those rate increases to health care providers.

In addition to the financial impact to the OSBA, Ryan believes the failed negotiations will also impact trust for employees who use the health care system.

I know most other people are probably like me when you find a doctor or physician that you really like seeing on a regular basis, its very difficult to change. Especially if its your primary care, he said. So theres going to be a lack of trust there with MU.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

MU Health Care maintains contract agreements with other major insurers including UnitedHealthcare.

We understand that this is an incredibly difficult time for many of our patients with Anthem insurance and our goal remains to come to an agreement, Maze said. Its important to note that MU Health Care remains in network with most major insurers.

This story originally appeared in the Columbia Missourian. It can be republished in print or online.
We came across a bullish thesis on Danaher Corporation (DHR) on Substack by Best Anchor Stocks. In this article, we will summarize the bulls thesis on DHR. Danaher Corporation (DHR)'s share was trading at $196.71 as of May 1st. DHRs trailing and forward P/E were 38.12 and 25.64 respectively according to Yahoo Finance.

A laboratory filled with modern equipment, scientists examining the latest biotechnology breakthroughs.

Danaher recently reported a better-than-expected quarter, beating both revenue and earnings estimates, and notably maintained its full-year guidancea signal of rare visibility in an uncertain macroeconomic environment. While the headline numbers were not eye-popping, the strength of the report lies in what it confirms: Danahers bioprocessing business is exiting its prolonged destocking cycle, and the company continues to demonstrate resilient fundamentals despite broader headwinds. Bioprocessing emerged as the standout performer, with consumables posting low double-digit growth, aligning with trends highlighted in Sartoriuss recent earnings. This outperformance led management to raise full-year biotechnology guidance to high single-digit growth, a move that effectively confirms the conservative nature of prior expectations. However, the overall guidance remained unchanged due to a weaker outlook for the lifesciences segment, particularly in academic and university-related sales, which management blamed on U.S. funding uncertainty. Interestingly, they also noted minimal exposure to direct NIH funding and low overall academic revenue dependence, raising questions about the justification for holding the annual guide flat despite strong bioprocessing momentum.

The softness in academia is more meaningful for smaller players like Judges Scientific, which has around 50% exposure to universities, with U.S. revenue contributing about 12% of total sales. That said, managements positive commentary on Chinas stimulus reaching universities provides a possible offset for Judges, even if China represents a smaller portion of its revenue. In diagnostics, Danahers Cepheid unit performed in line with expectations, with its non-respiratory business exceeding expectations and respiratory testing normalizing to endemic levelssuggesting that Cepheids performance remains robust post-COVID. Importantly, management provided context on tariffs, estimating a $350 million impact but emphasizing their ability to offset it via cost controls, manufacturing shifts, and selective pricing. Years of localized production, especially in China, mitigate broader risks from escalating trade tensions. This operational flexibility, combined with the mission-critical nature of Danahers products, makes tariff-related risks manageable. In fact, managements decision to issue FY2025 non-GAAP EPS guidance$7.68 at the midpointsignals confidence despite potential macro disruptions. This estimate appears conservative, with buybacks and operational upside creating a credible path to outperformance.
Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater and all seven members of the Frederick County Council on Tuesday announced their intent to limit data center development to the area around the former Alcoa Eastalco Works site near Adamstown.

The bipartisan bill would create an overlay zone for data centers that would consist of no more than 1% of Frederick County's total land, or approximately 4,000 acres.

When applied, overlay zones add to or modify the regulations attached to a parcel's underlying zone without changing the underlying zone itself.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The former Alcoa Eastalco site is approximately 2,200 acres, leaving the door open for other nearby parcels to be included in the overlay zone.

After the overlay zone is created through legislation, the County Council will have to separately approve a map of the overlay zone.

Once the map is approved, owners of properties that are within the overlay zone, but not zoned limited or general industrial, would have to apply for rezoning before data center development could occur on their land.

All applications for zoning map amendments are reviewed by the Frederick County Planning Commission and voted on by the Frederick County Council.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Our residents have been clear that they will accept a reasonable amount of data center development, but they will not tolerate the sprawl that occurred in Northern Virginia," Fitzwater, a Democrat, said during a press conference on Tuesday.

"The compromise that we are announcing will limit data center development to a narrow slice of the county where it is already occurring, and it will give the County Council powerful tools to prevent future sprawl," she continued.

The announcement on Tuesday came as the County Council prepared for a third reading and potential final vote on a bill to establish new siting and design criteria for data centers.

That bill is sponsored by Council President Brad Young and Council Member Renee Knapp, who are both Democrats.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Members of the County Council have been at odds for months about how best to regulate data center development in Frederick County.

In September 2024, Fitzwater announced that her administration would introduce to the council a bill to establish a data center floating zone.

Floating zones are districts that, when applied, replace the underlying zoning of a specific parcel of land.

In its final report, Fitzwater's data center work group recommended the creation of a floating zone that would have to be applied by the County Council over qualified parcels before data centers could be developed there.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fitzwater ultimately pulled the floating zone bill after previously expressing concerns that the zone could pit communities against each other and politicize the approval process for data centers.

After Fitzwater pulled her floating zone bill, Council Member Steve McKay, a Republican, and Council Member Jerry Donald, a Democrat, drafted their own version  but Young declined to put it on the agenda before the council had finished its work on his and Knapp's bill.

"I've been a strong advocate to ensure that the council be the final vote ... in terms of deciding where and where we do not build data centers," McKay said during the press conference on Tuesday. "This new data center overlay approach satisfies that requirement."

Council Member Renee Knapp, who co-chaired Fitzwater's data centers work group, said during the press conference on Tuesday that the proposed zoning bill complements her and Young's data center siting and design bill.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Knapp said the zoning bill will also address "a key workgroup recommendation and community concern"  establishing an upper limit on data center development in Frederick County based on total facility square footage, total land acreage, energy usage or another metric.

In an interview after the press conference on Tuesday, Fitzwater said she does not have the same concerns about the proposed overlay zone as she did about the floating zone.

"With an overlay, it can't float," Fitzwater said. "We're putting it in a specific place because we feel that that's where that type of development goes."

The proposed overlay zone for data centers marks the first time in the history of charter government that all seven members of the Frederick County Council have co-sponsored a measure, Fitzwater said.

It is not clear exactly when the proposed overlay zone will come before the County Council, but Fitzwater said it is likely to happen "pretty soon."
In light of new tariffs, UPS is planning to lay off thousands of workers and close dozens of facilities by the end of 2025, including at least one in Wisconsin.

The company announced the changes on April 29, citing "new and increased tariffs" as one of the reasons it is planning to lay off about 20,000 workers by the end of the year and shutter 73 facilities by the end of June 2025.

In the first quarter of 2025, the company made consolidated revenue of $21.5 billion, compared to $21.7 billion at the same time last year. The company is anticipating $3.5 billion in savings this year from job cuts and building closures.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Here's what to know about the UPS changes, including how Wisconsin workers and delivery service will be affected.

A UPS (United Parcel Service) driver makes a delivery in the Brooklyn borough of New York on March 26, 2024. (Photo by Charly TRIBALLEAU / AFP) (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty Images)

Which Wisconsin UPS facility is closing?

The UPS facility in Holmen, at 520 N. Star Road, will close on June 10, UPS spokesperson Karen Tomaszewski Hill told the Journal Sentinel in an email.

The building is one of 73 UPS facilities that will close by the end of next month. In total, UPS plans to close 164 buildings by the end of next month, USA TODAY reported. It is unclear if any other Wisconsin locations will be affected.

UPS operates more than 150 locations in Wisconsin, including more than 30 in Milwaukee, according to the company website.

How many Wisconsin employees is UPS laying off?

Hill said at least 42 workers in the Holmen UPS location would be impacted by the building closure. UPS is working to place as many of these employees as possible in other positions within the company, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Our employees are extremely important to us, and we understand the impact this may have on them and their families," Hill said. "We will work with those who may be impacted throughout the process to provide support."

As of 2024, UPS employed around 490,000 people worldwide, including about 330,000 Teamsters-represented jobs in the U.S., according to USA TODAY.

Why is UPS laying off workers, closing buildings?

UPS said a litany of "changes in general economic conditions in the U.S. or internationally" have created uncertainty for the company.

Along with shifting global trade policy, the company mentioned employee strikes; changing prices of gasoline, diesel and jet fuel; impacts from global climate change, including "increasingly stringent regulations" related to climate change; and "a significant cybersecurity incident."

Will UPS layoffs affect delivery services?

The building closures will all be facilities that are part of UPS' U.S. Ground operation, which is responsible for unloading, sorting and loading packages.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hill did not provide further information on how the Holmen closure may affect UPS customers in the area, but she said work done in the facility will be absorbed by other UPS locations.

Additionally, in January, UPS announced it was fast-tracking plans to slash millions of deliveries for Amazon  its largest customer, accounting for 11.8% of the company's overall revenue in 2024, USA TODAY reported. The company plans to reduce the amount it delivers for Amazon by more than 50% by June 2026, Brian Dykes, UPS' chief financial officer, told USA TODAY.

Which other Wisconsin companies laid off workers in April?

Including UPS, six Wisconsin companies laid off a total of 435 workers in April. Read more here.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: UPS is laying off 42 workers, closing facility in Wisconsin
Residents of an upscale Austin suburb are increasingly frustrated with their neighbor, Elon Musk, enough that the matter is now the subject of official city meetings.

Their complaints on the unneighborly conduct include a 16-foot chain-link fence surrounding Musks $6 million property and an evolving rotation of security guards who arrive in a fleet of cars often left parked on the street, according to The New York Times.

Security personnel reportedly change shifts three times a day. In one instance, a passing driver shouted late at night that he was looking for a party at Es house, the Times reported.

A notice for a May 14 West Lake Hills City Council meeting regarding a variance is posted at this house in West Lake Hills Tuesday May 6, 2025.

The dispute has escalated into a broader debate over city ordinances, permits and exceptions known as variances. It was the subject of a heated Zoning and Planning Commission meeting last month and is now headed to the West Lake Hills City Council on June 11. The agenda item was originally scheduled for next week but was postponed Wednesday morning.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I call that place Fort Knox, Paul Hemmer, a retired real estate agent who lives across the street and is president of the neighborhood homeowners association, told The Times.

According to The Times, neighbors said the property is noticeably quieter when Elon Musk is out of town, particularly in recent months, as hes spent most of his time in Washington advising President Donald Trump. However, they expect that to change soon, after Musk publicly stated he plans to spend less time in the Capitol and return to Texas.

Hemmer  a longtime Tesla owner  told The Times he became so frustrated that he began flying a drone over the property to look for possible city code violations. He also keeps a video camera pointed at the house 24/7. Last year, he filed complaints with West Lake Hills officials about Musks towering fence, increased traffic, and his belief that the billionaire was running a security operation from the home.

Musk purchased the home in 2022 through a limited liability company named after the street where the property is located. The house sits in the middle of a residential neighborhood, positioned at the bottom of about two acres of sloping land off a narrow public road  a layout that presents security challenges.

A notice for a May 14 West Lake Hills City Council meeting regarding a variance is posted at this house in West Lake Hills Tuesday May 6, 2025.

Musk also owns another nearby property that some have described as a compound. The $35 million estate includes two large, upscale homes and a third house located nearby. Among them are a 14,400-square-foot Tuscan-style mansion and a six-bedroom residence. The property was reportedly intended to house Musks extended family, including their mothers, though not all have lived there.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite these holdings, Musk primarily resides in a $50,000 house in Boca Chica, according to Architectural Digest. The modest home is located just outside of Starbase  the site of his SpaceX launch facility  where workers overwhelmingly voted in favor of forming a new city last weekend.

Updated with new information on the rescheduling of the agenda item for the West Lake Hills Zoning and Planning Commission and to add a photo gallery.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Upscale Austin suburb doesn't like new neighbor Elon Musk. Here's why
A Canadian-based restaurant chain specializing in elevated dining is opening a 10,000-square-foot location in Boston.

Cactus Club Cafe said Wednesday it will open its 34th location in the heart of Back Bay later this year. The opening will mark the first Cactus Club Cafe in the United States.

The company is looking to entertain diners with a chic interior, energetic music and innovative dishes.

Were incredibly excited to bring Cactus Club Cafe to Boston, Cactus Club Cafe President Andrew Latchford said in a press release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Back Bay is a vibrant neighborhood that aligns perfectly with our vision for modern dining  timeless, social, and stylish, he said. This marks an important milestone for our expansion into the U.S., and we cant wait to welcome Bostonians to experience what makes Cactus so special.

The Boston restaurant will have space for more than 325 people across main and private dining areas in addition to a lounge. Cactus Club Cafe will also have an outdoor patio.

The company is looking to fill more than 150 positions jobs across culinary, service and leadership roles. Those interested in applying can browse open positions online.

Cactus Club Cafe will be located at 500 Boylston St., Boston.

More Boston stories

Read the original article on MassLive.
ANDERSON COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA)  A woman was arrested after assaulting a Bath & Body Works employee for accusing her of shoplifting, revealing many outstanding warrants.

Related video: Violent crime statistics

Last Saturday, deputies with the Anderson County Sheriffs Office said they were called to the Bath & Body Works on Station Drive in reference to an assault and shoplifting. An employee told deputies that they had been assaulted after confronting a customer for shoplifting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The suspect, later identified as Karen Moses, had fled the scene and a vehicle chase began. Moses was said to have drove through multiple parking lots, down Brown Road and on Highway 81 North.

Deputies said when they finally pulled Moses over, they found that she had nearly 20 outstanding warrants from multiple jurisdictions in South Carolina and Georgia.

Five agencies had full extradition warrants for multiple thefts Moses had committed, and for evading police, deputies said.

Moses was charged with failure to stop for blue lights, reckless driving, driving under suspension and two counts of assault and battery. She was also served with three counts of fugitive from justice warrants by a judge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She has since been transferred to one of the agencies that had warrants on her, deputies 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 WSPA 7NEWS.
The aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman has suffered a series of mishaps during its deployment.

Since December, the ship has lost three fighter jets and collided with a commercial vessel.

These incidents have cost the Navy at least $180 million so far.

It's been a rough few months for the USS Harry S. Truman, which has suffered a string of serious and expensive mishaps since the aircraft carrier sailed into the Middle East at the end of last year.

The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier has lost three F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jets in the Red Sea  the most recent incident occurred on Tuesday  and collided with a commercial vessel, an incident that cost its skipper his job.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While it's unclear how much damage the Truman sustained from the collision, F/A-18s are estimated to cost roughly $60 million apiece, meaning the carrier has racked up at least $180 million in lost planes and damage.

It adds to the mounting costs the US military has borne from the Trump administration's seven-week air war against the Yemen-based Houthi militants attacking commercial ships in the Red Sea.

Failure during landing

On Tuesday, an F/A-18F Super Hornet was landing on the Truman's flight deck when the arresting cable failed, sending the aircraft over the edge and into the water. Both aviators safely ejected and were rescued by an MH-60S Seahawk helicopter.

"The aviators were evaluated by medical personnel and assessed to have minor injuries," a defense official told Business Insider. "No flight deck personnel were injured."

The Truman is one of five US aircraft carriers that has battled the Houthis. Photo by Gerard Bottino/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

It's unclear exactly what went wrong during the landing. US carriers have catapults to launch aircraft and arresting gear to recover them. The wire cables are tensioned across the flight deck to catch an aircraft's tailhook and rapidly decelerate it, a process repeated dozens of times daily during flight operations. Physical damage to a cable or a failure of the hydro-pneumatic systems that absorb the force of the landing aircraft could cause the wire cable to fail.

Towing incident

On April 28, an F/A-18E was actively under tow in Truman's hangar bay, an area under the flight deck where aircraft are maintained, when the move crew "lost control" of the fighter, the Navy said. At the time of the incident, the jet was likely on one of Truman's four elevators, which move aircraft between the hangar bay and the flight deck.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The jet and the tow tractor fell overboard. A defense official later told BI that a sailor jumped from the cockpit of the F/A-18 right before it fell into the Red Sea, and was lightly hurt as a result of the incident.

The Navy said at the time that the Truman carrier strike group and its air wing "remain fully mission capable."

At least four fighter squadrons are deployed on the Truman, with likely 10 or more fighters per squadron.

Collision

On February 12, the Truman collided with a commercial vessel in the Mediterranean Sea near Egypt's Port Said, at the mouth of the Suez Canal.

The aircraft carrier suffered some damage, including to the exterior wall of two storage rooms and a maintenance space. There was also damage external to the ship, including a line handling space, the fantail, and the platform above one of the storage spaces. Truman sailed to a US naval base in Greece for repairs.

The Truman has lost three F/A-18 Super Hornets since December. US Navy photo

Capt. Dave Snowden, Truman's commanding officer at the time, said the ship was "fully mission capable" and even continued to conduct flight operations after the crash. He was later fired and replaced by Capt. Christopher Hill, who previously captained the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, the first aircraft carrier to take on the Iran-backed Houthi group in Yemen that's been attacking shipping lanes.

Friendly fire

On December 22, the guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg, part of Truman's strike group, shot down an F/A-18 Super Hornet over the Red Sea in what the US military said was "an apparent case of friendly fire."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The fighter jet had launched from the Truman. Both aviators ejected safely.

That incident occurred just a few days after the Truman and its strike group entered the Middle East region. It became the Navy's fourth aircraft carrier to join the fight against the Houthis.

After weeks of calm, the US military began a new bombing campaign against the Houthis on March 15. The Truman participated in these intensive combat operations for over seven weeks until Tuesday, when President Donald Trump said American forces would stop.

Read the original article on Business Insider
By David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The CEOs of the five largest U.S. airlines on Thursday plan to back the Trump administration's proposal to spend tens of billions of dollars to reform the aging air traffic control system and boost hiring, officials said.

Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines and JetBlue Airways chief executives are all expected to speak at an event Thursday in which Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy will detail his proposal to Congress. Other aviation industry companies will also attend.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Also expected to attend are some relatives of the 67 people killed in the January 29 mid-air collision of an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army helicopter near Reagan Washington airport.

Airlines and others may also call for around $30 billion or more in total funding, but Duffy is not expected to release a specific figure beyond the "tens of billions" he said in March the administration would need pending further discussions with lawmakers.

Major unions representing aviation pilots, air traffic controllers and flight attendant groups and other aviation associations are also taking part in the event.

Congress is also considering $12.5 billion in initial funding as part of bill under consideration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We're going to build a brand new air traffic control system, from new telecom to new radars to new infrastructure," Duffy said earlier this week, estimating it will take three to four years to address.

Trade group Airlines for America, which will also take part in the event Thursday, praised Duffy Wednesday for "his commitment to building a new improved air traffic control system."

Delta and United both confirmed their CEOs will attend. A Delta spokesperson said CEO Ed Bastian "fully supports" Duffy's plan and says this is "a once in a lifetime opportunity to address these longstanding challenges."

Duffy also wants funding to speed air traffic control hiring. The FAA, which said in March it planned to hire 2,000 air traffic controller trainees this year, said it will offer new bonuses and payments for new controllers and to convince retirement-eligible controllers to stay on the job.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A persistent shortage of controllers has delayed flights and many are working mandatory overtime and six-day weeks. The FAA is about 3,500 air traffic controllers short of targeted staffing levels.

(Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama Editing by Mark Potter)
China says the US requested an upcoming trade talk, but President Trump begs to differ.

American and Chinese officials are set to meet in Switzerland this weekend to talk trade.

The US and China have hurled tariffs, and insults, at each other over the past month.

Tensions are high between the US and China ahead of a planned trade talk, and the dueling superpowers can't even agree on who initiated the meeting.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer announced this week that they'll will be meeting with their Chinese counterparts in Switzerland this weekend to discuss US-China trade relations as Trump's heavy tariffs remain in effect and the trade war rages on.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But no one can agree who actually initiated the talks.

"The meeting between Chinese and US senior officials on economic matters was requested by the US side," China's spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lin Jian, wrote on X on Wednesday. "Recently, the US has said repeatedly it wants to negotiate with China."

Jian's comments echoed those of a spokesperson for China's Ministry of Commerce, who said in a press conference last week that the US had "recently taken the initiative to send messages to China multiple times through relevant parties" in hopes to start the conversation with China.

President Donald Trump has scoffed at the suggestion that the US had requested the meeting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"They said we initiated? Well, I think they ought to go back and study their files, OK? I do think that," Trump told reporters Wednesday when asked about the upcoming meeting.

Since Trump imposed a 145% tariff on Chinese goods last month and China responded with its own 125% tariff on American goods, the countries have exchanged insults and blamed each other for the tariff.

"This tariff war was started by the US," Jian wrote in his Wednesday X post. "China firmly opposes the US's tariff hikes. Meanwhile, China is open to dialogue, but any dialogue must be based on equality, respect and mutual benefit. To pressure or coerce China in whatever way simply does not work."

On Wednesday, Trump flatly said "no" when asked if he would consider lowering his tariffs on China to help ease this weekend's talks, though he also recently said that the 145% tariff on China is "very high" and will "come down substantially."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump has previously railed against China for "ripping off" the US, while China has accused the US of "bullying" and said it risked becoming a "joke" on the world stage. Chinese social media has also exploded with memes mocking Trump and America.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

Business Insider's Katherine Li contributed a translation for this story.

Read the original article on Business Insider
(NewsNation)  Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Jamieson Greer, President Donald Trumps top trade negotiator, will meet with Chinese officials this weekend in Geneva.

The meeting, announced Tuesday by the White House, is a potential first step toward ending the tariff tit-for-tat between the two economic powerhouses.

Trumps sweeping tariffs have targeted China and its reciprocal actions against the United States. He blocked the country from a 90-day tariff pause announced in April and removed Chinas de minimis tariff exemption on low-value packages.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tariffs against China are currently 145%, while Chinas on the U.S. total 125%.

5 takeaways from Trumps meeting with Canadas Mark Carney

Though Trump previously claimed U.S.-China negotiations were underway  and said hed spoken with President Xi Jinping  officials in Beijing have denied the talks altogether.

As recently as Tuesday, Bessent told lawmakers the two countries had not yet held any meetings.

The Chinese Commerce Ministry on Tuesday confirmed the upcoming meeting between its vice premier and Bessent in Switzerland, but clarified that China would not sacrifice its principles or global equity or justice in seeking any agreement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trumps tariffs explained: When do they start, and who is affected?

The trade dispute has rocked both domestic and international stock markets, sowed recession concerns among experts and spurred price increases for certain products, including budget retail brands like Temu and Shein.

Tuesdays announcement sent U.S. stock futures rising and saw a positive Wednesday start in the Asian trade  a potential reprieve for Americans, who are seeing the lowest consumer confidence levels since the COVID-19 pandemic.

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 News

Top American and Chinese officials will meet in Switzerland this week in an attempt to defuse their escalating trade war.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who has described the tit-for-tat duties as unsustainable, will hold talks with He Lifeng, Chinas trade czar and a confidant of the countrys leader  but said they would not result in a deal.

A chart showing the percent of Chinas exports to different countries.

On Wednesday, Chinese officials announced broad rate cuts and other measures that could infuse 2.1 trillion yuan into the economy as Beijing seeks to bolster its negotiating position.

Each country has already suffered from the punishing tariffs, with measures of Chinas services and manufacturing sectors falling to multiyear lows, while the US dollar remains weak, long-term Treasury bonds command a higher risk premium, and economists increasingly project a US recession.
ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) will release earnings results for the first quarter, before the opening bell on Thursday, May 8.

Analysts expect the Houston-based company to report quarterly earnings at $2.05 per share, up from $2.03 per share in the year-ago period. ConocoPhillips projects to report quarterly revenue at $15.91 billion, compared to $14.48 billion a year earlier, according to data from Benzinga Pro.

On April 29, Bank of America Securities analyst Kalei Akamine downgraded the rating for ConocoPhillips from Buy to Neutral and lowered the price target from $138 to $107.

With the recent buzz around ConocoPhillips, some investors may be eyeing potential gains from the company's dividends. As of now, ConocoPhillips offers an annual dividend yield of 3.56%  a quarterly dividend of 78 cents per share ($3.12 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 $168,512 or around 1,923 shares. For a more modest $100 per month or $1,200 per year, you would need $33,738 or around 385 shares.

To calculate: Divide the desired annual income ($6,000 or $1,200) by the dividend ($3.12 in this case). So, $6,000 / $3.12 = 1,923 ($500 per month), and $1,200 / $3.12 = 385 shares ($100 per month).

View more earnings on COP

Note that dividend yield can change on a rolling basis; the dividend payment and the stock price 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.

COP Price Action: Shares of ConocoPhillips gained 0.02% to close at $87.63 on Tuesday.





Read More:

Image: Shutterstock

Up Next: Transform your trading with Benzinga Edge's one-of-a-kind market trade ideas and tools. Click now to access unique insights that can set you ahead in today's competitive market.

Get the latest stock analysis from Benzinga?
The US could take over the administration of post-war Gaza under plans discussed by American and Israeli officials, it has been reported.

The leaked discussions propose US leadership of a temporary government that would oversee the war-torn region until a viable Palestinian administration emerges.

Sources compared the proposed American takeover with the US-led Coalition Provisional Authority in Iraq, which ran the country in the aftermath of the 2003 invasion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No timescale for the post-war government has been quoted, nor have any details been given of when the discussions took place.

Reports of the proposal came days after Israel announced plans for a massive expansion of its military campaign in Gaza if a hostage deal is not struck by the end of next week.

The operation would see Israeli troops for the first time conquer the strip by seizing and holding on to territory in an effort to defeat Hamas for good, or to put so much pressure on the group that it offers a hostage deal.

It would also involve the entire population being ordered to move to a relatively small humanitarian zone in the south.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The strategy has alarmed some foreign capitals, as well as the UN, which voiced fears for Palestinian civilians.

People in Gaza, including children, crowd a relief point to receive hot meals distributed by charities - Ali Jadallah/Anadolu via Getty Images

On Wednesday, a group of UN experts said the international community was at a moral crossroads on the future of Gaza.

Their comments were criticised by Israel, which refuses to envisage a future for Gaza in which Hamas continues to exist inside the strip.

It has also apparently ruled out a future administration run by the Palestinian Authority, the body which runs the West Bank, saying it is little better than Hamas.

Arab governments have proposed that the Palestinian Authority runs the Strip at least until elections can be called.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

American involvement in the running of an Arab population after the experience of Iraq could be controversial in the region, even if Palestinian officials were involved in the transitional government.

It could also be seen as a step towards Donald Trumps Gaza Riviera vision, announced in February, in which he said that the US would take over the enclave and remove its population.

The AI-generated images of Donald Trumps Riviera version of Gaza, including a Trump hotel, released in February

According to his plan, Palestinian civilians would be displaced to other Arab countries in order for the Strip to be rebuilt along the lines of Tel Aviv or Dubai.

Israel is developing a mechanism for Gazans to leave voluntarily once in the south of the strip, but no neighbouring countries have agreed to allow them in.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is not known whether the reported US-Israeli proposals for American temporary governance of Gaza would see the displacement of civilians.

Meanwhile, Israel has appeared to ramp up its air strikes in preparation for the expanded military operation, which will see the call-up of tens of thousands of reservists.

According to the Strips health ministry, which is run by Hamas, strikes on Wednesday in central Gaza killed at least 33 people and wounded 86, including several children.

The Israel Defense Forces made no immediate comment on the claims.

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.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Washington Sen. Patty Murray minced no words talking about the massive cuts President Trump made to the Education Department.

Trump wants to suck away money from public schools, suck away money from our schools, and give it to billionaires, Murray said at a forum of Senate Democrats in DC on Tuesday.

Since Trump took office, the US Department of Education has been nearly cut in half  from 4000 staff members to 2183 in a little more than 3 months.

Washington US Sen. Patty Murray in DC, May 6, 2025 (KOIN)

Oregon and Washington are two of 20 states to sue the Trump Administration over the cuts to DOE. Those cuts severely impacted the departments Institute of Education Sciences, which generates critical research on K-12 public education in the US.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Beer has staying power: Oregon beer generated nearly $9B in economic output last year

Data from that research is then used to determine if support and intervention is required on the federal level.

State Sen. Lew Frederick, May 4, 2025 (KOIN)

Oregon State Sen. Lew Frederick, the chair of the senates education committee, said the absence of that research could send public schools in Oregon and around the country into a tailspin.

The information will not come in, the information that does come in wont be positive, Frederick told KOIN 6 News. It is a spiral, an intentional spiral.

Foundations for a Better Oregon, a non-profit that tracks student outcomes and state investments in education, told KOIN 6 News the cuts at DOE make it more critical than ever for Oregon to collect its own data on student learning.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

New legislation proposed by Gov. Tina Kotek would do exactly that. House Bill 2009 and its corresponding Senate Bill 141 both direct school districts to collect their own data about student learning.

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.
TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras (AP)  The U.S. Embassy in Honduras issued a warning on Tuesday about the threat of a mass shooting at three potential targets in the capital, including a school, a shopping mall and a government complex.

The warning posted to the embassys account on X said it had received information that the attacks could occur on Tuesday and on May 16. It warned U.S. citizens to avoid the locations.

The three target locations mentioned are the Elliot Dover Christian School in Tegucigalpa, the Centro Civico in Tegucigalpa, and an unnamed mall in Tegucigalpa, the warning said. The Embassy is required by U.S. law to disseminate this message for all U.S. citizens.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There was no indication that U.S. citizens would be specifically targeted, the embassy said.

The U.S. embassy said it did not have more information.

Honduras Police Director Juan Manuel Aguilar Godoy downplayed the warning and said it should not cause alarm.

It is only an alert, he said on local radio, adding that the information had come from the FBI and that Honduran authorities had also been informed.

The FBI is obligated, according to United States guidelines, to advise its citizens, he said.

Honduras Foreign Affairs Minister Eduardo Enrique Reina said on X that the administration had considered the information responsibly and diligently regardless of its veracity or possibility.

Reina said the warning came in an election year. He said the government would do everything possible to protect the public and the electoral process. National elections are scheduled for Nov. 30.
The official website of the ZBROYARI initiative, the Manufacturing Freedom initiative, mentioned the US investment in purchasing Ukrainian arms. This initiative collects information on all donations from Western partners for the purchase of products from Ukrainian defence plants.

Source: Mezha Media, a technology and IT news platform within Ukrainska Pravda's holding company

Details: The announcement of a US$764 million investment by the United States in purchasing Ukrainian weapons appeared in March, without an accompanying press release. The source of the Oboronka publication, which is involved in the ZBROYARI initiative, said that such agreements with the Americans do exist and relate to long-range weapons in particular.

Screenshot: The official website of the ZBROYARI initiative: Manufacturing Freedom initiative

Background:

Thanks to the involvement of all key government agencies and armed associations in raising funds from Western partners for domestic defence, more than US$1.5 billion was raised for contracting Ukrainian plants in 2024 alone. Denmark became the first sponsor, but now the initiative involves nine countries that invest either their own funds or income from frozen Russian assets.

Earlier, Andrius Kubilius, European Commissioner for Defence and Space, said the EU could double its military aid to Ukraine in 2025 by placing a large order with our factories, which produce weapons at half the cost of Western defence corporations.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
U.S. intelligence agencies were told last week to step up their spying efforts related to Greenland and the contingent that supports the self-governing Danish islands independence.

Last week, agencies including the CIA, Defense Intelligence Agency, and National Security Agency received a collection emphasis message about Greenland-related intelligence from officials under Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, The Wall Street Journal reports, citing two people familiar with the effort.

The intelligence gathering reportedly will focus in part on identifying individuals in Greenland and Denmark who support the Trump administrations interest in taking over the island.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The effort could include using U.S. spy satellites, communications intercepts, and human intelligence.

The Wall Street Journal should be ashamed of aiding deep-state actors who seek to undermine the president by politicizing and leaking classified information, Gabbard told the paper in response to its reporting. They are breaking the law and undermining our nations security and democracy.

The Independent has contacted the CIA, NSA, DIA, and Danish prime ministers office for comment.

Trump said over the weekend he wouldnt rule out using the military to invade Greenland (Getty Images)

The reported intelligence notice marks one of the first major steps the administration has taken to further Trumps interest in taking over the island.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During an interview with NBC News over the weekend, Trump reiterated his commitment to the objective, which the president has said could provide the U.S. with strategic access to polar waterways and rare minerals.

We need Greenland very badly, Trump said. Greenland is a very small amount of people, which well take care of, and well cherish them, and all of that. But we need that for international security.

He added that he wouldnt rule out using military force to annex the island, which would mark a stunning development against a territory controlled by a NATO ally.

Officials in Denmark and Greenland have said they will not submit to U.S. control.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Vice President JD Vance visited the island in March, touring a U.S. base there.

Trump continued his expansionist tone on Tuesday during a White House visit from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, once again suggesting Canada could become the 51st American state.
Recently declassified intelligence contradicts Trump administration claims that the Tren de Aragua gang is coordinating with the Venezuelan government  undercutting a key basis for President Trumps invocation of wartime powers to remove people to a Salvadoran prison.

In justifying his use of the 1789 Alien Enemies Act, Trump accused Tren de Aragua (TDA) of coordinating with President Nicolas Maduro  a basis for using powers to go after citizens of an enemy nation.

But a document from the National Intelligence Council, first obtained by the Freedom of the Press Foundation and reviewed by The Hill, shows the U.S. intelligence community has not found any coordination between the Maduro regime and the gang.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While Venezuelas permissive environment enables TDA to operate, the Maduro regime probably does not have a policy of cooperating with TDA and is not directing TDA movement to and operations in the United States, the document states, referring to the gang by an acronym.

The Alien Enemies Act has been used just three times in U.S. history, all during times of war. Trump is the first to try to use the law to address gang activity  and has thus far met resistance by the courts.

Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-Texas)  who pressed intelligence leaders on the claim earlier this year  said the document unwinds the Trump administrations justification for using the Alien Enemies Act to deport people to a Salvadoran prison.

The evidence is clear that the intelligence community hasnt found that the Venezuelan Government is directing Tren de Aragua to invade the United States and to attack the United States, and so the basis for President Trump invoking the Alien Enemies Act is completely undermined, Castro told The Hill.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hes not even allowing them due process at all, Castro said of the Venezuelan men not being given a chance to contest their alleged gang ties.

So its clear he should not be sending these folks to a gulag in El Salvador.  Theres simply no basis for it.

The document at various turns casts doubt on any coordination between the Venezuelan government and the gang, which now operates in multiple countries.

Venezuelan intelligence, military, and police services view TDA as a security threat and operate it in ways that make it highly unlikely the two sides would cooperate or coordinate in a strategic or consistent way, it states.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The IC has not observed the regime directing TDA, including to push migrants to the United States, it says, using an abbreviation for intelligence community.

At another point the document casts doubt on claims that Tren de Aragua members are engaged in human smuggling.

The small size of TDAs cells, its focus on low-skill criminal activities, and its decentralized structure make it highly unlikely that TDA coordinates large volumes of human trafficking or migrant smuggling, it states.

A Trump-appointed federal judge last week found the president did not have the power to use the Alien Enemies Act to deport alleged gang members.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Proclamation makes no reference to and in no manner suggests that a threat exists of an organized, armed group of individuals entering the United States at the direction of Venezuela to conquer the country or assume control over a portion of the nation. Thus, the Proclamations language cannot be read as describing conduct that falls within the meaning of invasion for purposes of the AEA, Texas-based U.S. District Court Judge Fernando Rodriguez Jr. wrote.

On Tuesday, a New York-based judge also found it was wrong of the Trump administration to remove the men with faint hope of process or return.

I hold that the predicates for the Presidential Proclamation, that TdA has engaged in either a war, invasion or a predatory incursion of the United States, do not exist, the judge wrote.

Castro, alongside Rep. Jim Himes (D-Conn.), asked Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard to declassify the April 7 memo on the gang.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

CIA Director John Ratcliffe, under questioning from Castro, previously said the U.S. was not at war with Venezuela.

The disclosure came shortly after The New York Times published an article saying U.S. intelligence assessments contradicted Trumps claims that Tren de Aragua was acting at the behest of the Venezuelan government.

The Trump administration has argued the article was incorrect and threatened to prosecute whoever leaked the intelligence to the Times.

The Justice Department is opening a criminal investigation relating to the selective leak of inaccurate, but nevertheless classified, information from the Intelligence Community relating to Tren de Aragua (TDA), Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said at the time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We will not tolerate politically motivated efforts by the Deep State to undercut President Trumps agenda by leaking false information onto the pages of their allies at the New York Times, he continued. The Alien Enemies Proclamation is supported by fact, law, and common sense, which we will establish in court and then expel the TDA terrorists from this country.

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.
By Ernest Scheyder

(Reuters) -A U.S. federal judge said he will rule by May 14 on whether to block the Trump administration from transferring Arizona land to Rio Tinto and BHP to build a major copper mine opposed by Native Americans.

The long-running and complex legal case pits the religious rights of Arizona's San Carlos Apache people against rising demand for copper for the energy transition and the geopolitics of China's wide control over the critical minerals industry.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The dispute centers on the federally owned Oak Flat Campground where many Apache worship their deities. The site sits atop a reserve of more than 40 billion pounds (18.1 million metric tons) of copper, a crucial component of electric vehicles and nearly every electronic device.

Rio and BHP's Resolution Copper project would, if built, cause a crater 2 miles (3 km) wide and 1,000 feet (304 m) deep that would slowly engulf that worship site.

U.S. District Judge Steven Logan, who ruled in favor of the land transfer in 2021, held a nearly two-hour hearing on Wednesday to consider a fresh request that he block the land transfer temporarily while the U.S. Supreme Court deliberates.

Logan, an appointee of former U.S. President Barack Obama, gave little indication as to how he would rule in the week promised but asked pointed questions about what harm the Apache could endure if the transfer were to occur before the Supreme Court rules.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He also asked for data on Rio's maintenance costs for existing Resolution assets, which a Rio executive estimated at $11 million a month.

Since 2021, courts have rejected a request by Apache Stronghold - a nonprofit group that includes the Apache and others - to block the land transfer needed for the mine. The rulings deferred to a 2014 decision made by the U.S. Congress and then-President Obama.

President Donald Trump started the land transfer in his first term, a move undone by successor Joe Biden while the issue wound its way through courts.

The U.S. Supreme Court is now considering whether to take the case. The Supreme Court has said at least 13 times it will continue to deliberate on the appeal request, an unusually long time frame.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Meanwhile, Trump last month restarted the land transfer process, with his administration aiming to complete it as soon as June 16.

The U.S. Justice Department, which has opposed the Apaches' request under both Biden and Trump, argued that Logan should stick with his 2021 ruling.

"There is no basis for this court to issue a different result here," said Erika Danielle Norman, a Justice Department attorney.

Apache Stronghold and their attorneys with the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty said they were encouraged by the hearing.

"All the Apaches are asking for is to put that land transfer on hold while the Supreme Court deliberates," said Becket's Joseph Davis.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rio Tinto said it appreciated the court's time and that Resolution is "vital to securing America's energy future, infrastructure needs, and national defense."

BHP, which owns 45% of the project to Rio's 55%, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

(Reporting by Ernest Scheyder; Editing by Howard Goller)
By Foo Yun Chee

BRUSSELS (Reuters) -U.S. House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan and Foreign Affairs Chair Brian Mast warned Britain on Wednesday that its order to Apple to create a backdoor to its encrypted user data could be exploited by cybercriminals and authoritarian regimes.

Apple, which has said it would never build a so-called back door into its encrypted services or devices, has challenged the order at the UK's Investigatory Powers Tribunal (IPT).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The iPhone maker withdrew its Advanced Data Protection feature for UK users in February following the UK order. Users of Apple's iPhones, Macs and other devices can enable the feature to ensure that only they  and not even Apple  can unlock data stored on its cloud.

"Creating a backdoor into end-to-end encrypted systems, as the TCN does, introduces systemic vulnerabilities that can be exploited by malicious actors, including cybercriminals and authoritarian regimes," Jordan and Mast wrote in a joint letter to Britain's Home Secretary Yvette Cooper.

TCN (Technical Capability Notice) refers to the UK order.

"These vulnerabilities would not only affect UK users but also American citizens and others worldwide, given the global nature of Apple's services," they said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They urged Cooper to allow Apple to disclose the existence of the order to the U.S. Department of Justice so it can evaluate whether it complies with the U.S.-UK agreement made under the CLOUD Act which prohibits orders requiring companies to decrypt data.

Under UK laws, American companies would commit a criminal offence if they disclose or confirm such an order, even to their home government.

"We urge the Home Office to reconsider the issuance of TCNs that require the weakening of encryption, as such measures conflict with international human rights standards, including the European Court of Human Rights' ruling that undermining encryption violates privacy rights," the lawmakers said.

Britain's Home Office has said a warrant would be needed for any individual's data to be accessed.

(Reporting by Foo Yun Chee; Editing by Richard Chang)
While Lilly's GLP-1 drugs continue to be a huge growth driver for the company, its new orforglipron franchise has the potential to be even bigger. Unlike other GLP-1 weight loss drugs currently on the market , orforglipron can be taken orally instead of by injection. This should expand the market for GLP-1 drugs, as many people are likely reluctant to inject a needle into their abdomen or thigh.

Meanwhile, the company continues to expand Mounjaro internationally. The drug is now available in 40 countries, and recently launched in India and Mexico. Lilly will continue to bring Mounjaro to other countries throughout the year.

During the quarter, Zepbound became the market leader for branded anti-obesity medications in the U.S., accounting for 60% of total prescriptions and 74% of new prescriptions in the first quarter. Lilly also introduced higher-dose vials for the self-pay market, and said these higher doses accounted for approximately 10% of total prescriptions and 25% of new prescriptions.

Both drugs have the same active ingredient, tirzepatide, but are approved for different indications. Mounjaro is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help adults with type 2 diabetes lower their blood glucose levels, while Zepbound is approved for weight loss in obese adults or overweight adults with at least one weight-related condition, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure. The reality, though, is that both drugs are often prescribed off-label for any type of weight loss.

Where to invest $1,000 right now? Our analyst team just revealed what they believe are the 10 best stocks to buy right now. Continue 

The company's GLP-1 drugs continue to drive strong revenue growth. Mounjaro revenue soared 113% to $3.8 billion, while Zepbound revenue surged from $517 million a year ago to $2.3 billion.

Shares of Eli Lilly (NYSE: LLY) sank after the drugmaker lowered its full-year profit outlook, and a potential headwind to pricing and access to its drug Zepbound emerged. However, the guidance reduction stems from an up-front payment it made to acquire Scorpion Therapeutics' STX-478 program to treat breast cancer. This is a one-time financial adjustment related to accounting that has no bearing on its business operations.

The company's new oral GLP-1 drug, which avoids the use of injections, has huge potential.

But news about its Zepbound drug, along with lowered profit guidance, hurt the shares.

Story Continues

The drug also isn't expected to have the same supply constraints as injectable GLP-1 drugs, which need specialized injection pens as well as cold storage and shipping. Orforglipron won't require either of these things, making its manufacturing and transport a lot easier.

Lilly has also been investing heavily to increase its U.S. manufacturing capacity. It has announced over $50 billion in new U.S. manufacturing investments since 2020. This includes four new facilities (three of which will manufacture active pharmaceutical ingredients) that it announced in February.

The company said the recent phase 3 trial results from its Achieve-1 study support its "hypothesis that orforglipron could deliver efficacy, safety, and tolerability similar to the best seen for available GLP-1 monotherapy injectables." While the trial was for treating patients with type 2 diabetes, it showed that patients who took the drug experienced considerable weight loss.

Lilly also said it was very pleased with the drug's safety profile. It has several more orforglipron trials underway for both type 2 diabetes and obesity. It plans to submit orforglipron for FDA approval for obesity in Q4, and for type 2 diabetes in the first half of 2026.

All was not positive on the GLP-1 drug front, though. On the day of Eli Lilly's earnings report, CVS Health announced that its pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) unit Caremark would make rival weight loss drug Wegovy -- made by Novo Nordisk -- the preferred weight loss medication on its standard formularies (lists of covered drugs), while dropping Zepbound. On Lilly's earnings call, management noted that this was for a subset of CVS plans and not the entire CVS account.

However, what this does show is that some PBMs could look to pit GLP-1 drugmakers against each other as a way to reduce prices. For its part, though, Cigna Group, which owns the PBM Express Scripts, said it had no interest in negotiating an exclusive deal with a GLP-1 manufacturer. That said, there could be some pricing pressure as a result of the actions by CVS. This makes orforglipron all the more important for Lilly's future results.

Overall, Lilly grew its Q1 revenue by 45% to $12.73 billion, while adjusted earnings per share (EPS) climbed 29% to $3.34. However, that included $1.72 of acquired "in-process research and development" (IPR&D) charges from the aforementioned acquisition of Scorpion Therapeutics' STX-478 program. The results still topped analyst expectations, as compiled by LSEG, for adjusted EPS of $3.02 on sales of $12.67 billion.

Looking ahead, the company maintained its sales forecast for revenue of between $58 billion and $61 billion. Due to the acquired IPR&D charges, however, it lowered its full-year EPS guidance to a range of $20.78 to $22.28, from an earlier outlook of $22.50 to $24.

Image source: Getty Images.

Should investors buy the dip on Eli Lilly?

The CVS news overshadowed what was a strong overall quarter from Eli Lilly and its GLP-1 drugs. I wouldn't be surprised to see some price erosion in the injectable versions.

However, I think orforglipron has the potential to become the biggest GLP-1 drug on the market. The hypothesis is quite simple: People will prefer taking a weight-loss pill rather than having to stick themselves with needles, and they'll be willing to pay more to do so as well. Throw in the benefits of less complex manufacturing, storage, and transportation, and the drug has immense potential.

Following the sell-off, Lilly trades at a forward price-to-earnings (P/E) of 37 times 2025 analyst estimates, with a price-to-earnings-to-growth (PEG) ratio of 0.4. PEGs below 1 are generally considered undervalued, so on that basis, the stock is very inexpensive.

The GLP-1 market continues to see rapid growth. And while there's currently some pricing pressure, that appears to be accounted for in Lilly's valuation. What is not priced into the stock, though, is the huge potential of orforglipron. That makes Eli Lilly a buy in my book.

Should you invest $1,000 in Eli Lilly right now?

Before you buy stock in Eli Lilly, consider this:

The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and Eli Lilly wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.

Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $611,589!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $697,613!*

Now, its worth noting Stock Advisors total average return is 894%  a market-crushing outperformance compared to 163% for the S&P 500. Dont miss out on the latest top 10 list, available when you join Stock Advisor.

See the 10 stocks 

*Stock Advisor returns as of May 5, 2025

Geoffrey Seiler has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends CVS Health and Novo Nordisk. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Eli Lilly Stock Slips on Outlook. Is It Time to Buy the Dip? was originally published by The Motley Fool
An F/A-18 fighter jet went overboard after trying to land on the USS Harry S. Truman on Tuesday.

It's the second Super Hornet the Truman has lost in just over a week and the third of this deployment.

F/A-18s are estimated to cost roughly $60 million apiece.

Another F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet fell off the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman and into the Red Sea on Tuesday, a US defense official confirmed to Business Insider.

It's the second fighter jet lost from the Truman in a little over a week and the third of the carrier's deployment. Super Hornets are estimated to cost roughly $60 million apiece.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The F/A-18F was landing on the flight deck of the Truman on Tuesday when the arrestment failed, causing the fighter jet to go overboard, the official said. Both the aviators safely ejected and were rescued by an MH-60S Seahawk helicopter.

Navy aircraft carriers have catapults for launch and arresting gear for recovery. The thick cables help aircraft quickly decelerate on landing. It's unclear what exactly failed during Tuesday's recovery.

"The aviators were evaluated by medical personnel and assessed to have minor injuries," the official said, adding that "no flight deck personnel were injured."

The Truman has lost three F/A-18s since December. US Navy photo

CNN first reported on the incident, which was the latest in a series of mishaps for Truman and its strike group.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On April 28, an F/A-18E and a tow tractor fell off the Truman and into the Red Sea after a move crew lost control of the aircraft. A sailor who jumped from the cockpit just before the fighter jet went overboard was lightly hurt.

In February, the Truman collided with a large commercial vessel in the Mediterranean Sea, resulting in the firing of the carrier's commanding officer.

And in December, the missile cruiser USS Gettysburg, part of the Truman's strike group, shot down a Super Hornet in what the US military described as "an apparent case of friendly fire." Both aviators ejected safely.

The Truman has been deeply involved in combat operations against the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen. But Tuesday's incident came as President Donald Trump said the US would end a seven-week intensive bombing campaign against the rebels.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The Trump administration is pushing nations facing steep tariffs to adopt Elon Musks Starlink satellite system, according to The Washington Post.

Two weeks after President Donald Trump announced 50 percent tariffs on products from the small African country of Lesotho, its communications regulator met with people from Starlink, which SpaceX owns.

Starlink had been looking to get access to customers from the country; however, the company was only handed a 10-year internet service license in Lesotho after Trump revealed the tariffs and called for trade negotiations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As the government of Lesotho negotiates a trade deal with the United States, it hopes that licensing Starlink demonstrates goodwill and intent to welcome U.S. businesses, an internal State Department memo said, according to The Post.

Musks company also signed distribution agreements with two Indian providers in March, and it has been at least partially accommodated in Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Vietnam.

The paper obtained a number of internal government messages that outline how U.S. embassies and the State Department have urged countries to remove obstacles for American satellite companies, and they often mention Starlink by name.

People stand at Griffith Observatory in LA as they view a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket carrying a payload of 22 Starlink internet satellites into space, after launching from Vandenberg Space Force Base, on March 18, 2024. Some countries have fast-tracked regulatory approvals for Starlink as they may enter trade negotiations with the U.S. (Getty Images)

However, the documents do not show that the White House has been asking for favors for the satellite company in exchange for tariff relief. They suggest that Secretary of State Marco Rubio has told officials that they should urge countries to enact regulatory approvals for the satellite company. This comes as the White House is arguing for trade talks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Biden administration also urged embassies to adopt Starlink and other satellite internet services, cables obtained by The Post reveal.

However, no deals have been struck since the Trump tariffs were announced.

Even so, Indian officials have fast-tracked Starlink approvals with the idea that it would help them get trade deals with the U.S.

Its not likely to be an explicit element of the trade negotiations with the U.S., but the Indian side sees this as an important lubricant that facilitates a deal, one person briefed by Indian leadership told The Post.

The State Department told the paper in a statement that Starlink is an American-made product that has been game-changing in helping remote areas around the world gain internet connectivity. Any patriotic American should want to see an American companys success on the global stage, especially over compromised Chinese competitors.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The only consideration in the Trump administrations trade negotiations with other countries is whats best for the American people  which includes American companies succeeding at home and abroad, White House spokesperson Kush Desai told The Post. President Trump will not tolerate any conflicts of interest, and every administration official is following ethical guidelines set by their respective agencies.

However, some experts who spoke to the paper said the actions make sense as the U.S. competes with China in the area of worldwide telecommunications, and Starlink is the top actor in satellite internet connectivity both in the U.S. and globally.

Foundation for American Innovation senior fellow Evan Swarztrauber told The Post, "When Elons name is attached to anything, theres all sorts of feelings. But if he werent the CEO of SpaceX, I dont think most people would have a problem with the U.S. government advocating for American companies to get international market access.

He added: We want American satellite companies to do well abroad, especially as our main competition is China. The U.S. has a lead in space, and we should double down on getting other countries to grant regulatory approvals for our companies. Otherwise, it will be Chinese companies that benefit from market access.
Another contestant joined the still-emerging field of Democrats vying to succeed U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin Wednesday as five-term northwest suburban U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi launched his bid, pitching himself as a radical common sense progressive to take on President Donald Trump.

A president, ignoring the Constitution, out for revenge, acting like a dictator, claiming hes a king, surrounded by billionaire backers and MAGA extremists, threatening our rights, rigging the rules to line their pockets, the 51-year-old Krishnamoorthi of Schaumburg says in his near 2-minute video announcement released Wednesday. Wrecking the economy, they profit and working people pay. Its insanity. People want to know, at this moment in this time, where is the power to fight back?

Ive spent my career standing up to bullies, whether theyve gone after our kids, our families or our country, he continues in the video. So if youre ready to turn anger into action and make America work for working people, join our campaign.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Krishnamoorthis formal announcement had been expected and it comes two weeks after the 80-year-old Durbin announced he would not seek a sixth term. It also follows announcements by Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton and U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly of Matteson that they would enter the March 17 Democratic primary.

With his bid, Krishnamoorthi injects into the race a mix of moderate policy positions such as supporting small business initiatives  in line with the ideology of many voters in his suburban district  along with progressivism as one of 19 vice chairs of the Congressional Equality Caucus, a group that promotes equality for all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

I see myself as kind of a radical common sense progressive, the one-time small business security firm owner said in an interview before his announcement.

Im a racial, religious, ethnic minority immigrant with 29 letters in my name. I identify with people who are strivers or dreamers, as single moms, the most vulnerable, LGBTQ people who have been bullied, Krishnamoorthi said. I identify myself with the small businesses who constantly feel like the playing field is unlevel for them relative to big corporations, because I myself felt that way relative to my competitors.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Krishnamoorthi also will be injecting into the race the nearly $19.5 million he has in his federal campaign fund  an amount that is tops among the states delegation in Washington  as he notably takes on Stratton, who has the backing of billionaire two-time running mate, Gov. JB Pritzker.

Far from a household name to statewide voters, Just call me Raja has long been Krishnamoorthis political campaign theme and he is maintaining it for the Senate run.

But in his biographical announcement, he seeks to connect himself to voters with a powerful and popular Illinois Democrat by pointing to his past political work for Barack Obama before he was elected president. Obama showed that Illinois will give you a shot even if you have a funny name, and, inspired by Baracks example, I was elected to Congress, he says in the video.

In a race to replace a downstate U.S. senator, the congressman from Schaumburg also sought to differentiate himself from his Chicago-area rivals by pointing out that while his family moved from New Delhi, India, when he was 3-months-old, he was raised in Peoria and is a son of Peoria public schools.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A graduate of Princeton University and the Harvard School of Law, Krishnamoorthis candidacy brings his federal political career full circle.

In his first bid for Congress in 2012, he lost the Democratic nomination to Tammy Duckworth. Elected to the House four years later after Duckworth went to the Senate, Krishnamoorthi now seeks to become the junior partner to the future Illinois senior senator. Duckworth is backing Strattons bid.

But Krishnamoorthi has been a creature of Illinois politics. He was a volunteer for Obamas failed 2000 primary challenge to former U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush and became policy director for Obamas successful 2004 U.S. Senate run.

Krishnamoorthi then assisted in the launch of an anti-corruption unit in the Illinois attorney generals office under Lisa Madigan before serving as a deputy state treasurer under now-Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, where Kelly served as chief of staff. In his only previous statewide run, in 2010, he narrowly lost a primary bid for state comptroller before running for Congress two years later.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Before entering Congress, Krishnamoorthi ran a small business specializing in security research and development. That background led to his work in Congress to reauthorize and modernize federal programs to provide vocational and technical education opportunities.

He also helped lead an investigation into youth vaping and e-cigarettes that prompted stronger federal regulation of the products and forced Juul to reach a $439 million settlement with dozens of states over allegations the company targeted young people in its advertising.

A member of the House Intelligence Committee and the House Oversight Committee, Krishnamoorthi has long pursued to toughen limits on lead in baby foods and was a longtime critic of Purdue Pharma over its role in peddling Oxycontin. The firm went bankrupt in 2021, but its owners agreed to pay billions of dollars worth of opioid-abuse claims.

In 2024, Krishnamoorthi helped spearhead controversial legislation to force the Chinese internet company ByteDance to sell its popular social media app TikTok. The legislation became law but Trump has so far delayed enforcing it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In recent days, Krishnamoorthi has warned Irish low-cost airline Ryanair to not buy Chinese-made aircrafts. The move came amid concerns over intellectual property theft after the airlines CEO said it was an alternative to canceling orders for Boeing 737 jets with an increased price tag due to Trumps imposition of tariffs. Krishnamoorthi is the top Democrat on the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party.

Now we have, perhaps, the biggest bully of them all, Donald Trump, and I have a track record of standing up to bullies and I can stand up to him as well, he said in his pre-announcement interview.

Assailing the chaos of Trumps early second term and resulting economic uncertainty, Krishnamoorthi said government should be an indispensable partner in helping people realize their economic dreams and their potential.

I believe that with every fiber of my body that right now, whether youre working poor, whether youre middle class, whether youre growing a business, we want everyone to succeed in this country and the government needs to be there to help however it can, he said in the interview.

Krishnamoorthi on Friday is scheduled to hold the first official events of his campaign with stops in Peoria, Chicago and Schaumburg.
(This May 7 story has been refiled to use the British spelling of Open Source Centre in paragraph 2, and to correct the name to centre from network in paragraph 3)

(Reuters) - The United States said on Wednesday it plans to call for U.N. sanctions against vessels identified as taking part in circumvention of United Nations resolutions to combat North Korea's nuclear and missile programs.

The British-based Open Source Centre issued a report on Wednesday saying that in the past year it had tracked a number of non-Korean flagged vessels transporting North Korean coal and iron ore to ports in China, in violation of U.N. sanctions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Speaking at a meeting of the U.N. Security Council, James Byrne, director of the Open Source Centre, identified several vessels, including the Tanzanian-flagged Armani and Sophia, the falsely-flagged Cartier and Casio, and the unflagged Yi Li 1 and An Yu.

Byrne said the vessels had started engaging in sophisticated "spoofing" techniques, such as by presenting digital tracks to indicate they were in other countries, when satellite imagery showed them loading in North Korea.

U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Dorothy Camille Shea said the Security Council would continue to highlight sanctions violations despite Russia's veto last year of the mandate of the panel of experts that monitored such violations on behalf of the U.N.'s 1718 Committee on North Korea.

"In the coming days, we plan to nominate for designation in the 1718 Committee vessels clearly identified in the briefing to which Mr. Byrne referred for violations of U.N. sanctions restrictions," she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Shea accused Russia of "cynically obstructing" sanctions implementation, including though importation of North Korean missiles and shells for use in its war in Ukraine.

She accused Chinese authorities of "looking the other way" as Chinese companies import North Korean coal and iron ore, even though Beijing insists it fully implements the U.N. resolutions.

Geng Shuang, China's deputy U.N. ambassador, said China rejected U.S. "accusations and smearing" and charged that Washington was using the North Korea issue as a pretext for strategic military deployments that jeopardized the security interests of regional countries, including China.

Russian U.N. ambassador Vasily Nebenzya dismissed criticism of its relationship and cooperation with North Korea, saying it was Moscow's sovereign right and that Russia was "very grateful to our Korean brothers for the assistance they've extended to us."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

North Korea's U.N. ambassador Kim Song accused the United States of "high-handedness and arbitrariness" that should not be tolerated by the international community.

(Reporting by David Brunnstromm, editing by Deepa Babington)
By Patricia Zengerle

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Republican chairman of the U.S. Senate intelligence committee called on Wednesday for American spy agencies to "pause" intelligence sharing with Germany's domestic intelligence agency that could be used to target the far right Alternative for Germany party (AfD).

"I understand that liberal elites on both sides of the Atlantic loathe the AfD, but AfD's platform has resonated with many Germans," Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas wrote in a letter to Tulsi Gabbard, President Donald Trump's director of National Intelligence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Germany's domestic intelligence service classified the AfD on May 2 as an "extremist" group, enabling it to step up monitoring of the country's biggest opposition party. The AfD declared the move a "blow against democracy" and has filed suit.

Cotton's letter follows a series of expressions of support for the AfD from members of Trump's circle. In it he asked that, until Germany's government "treats the AfD as a legitimate opposition party," Gabbard pause sharing of intelligence that could be used to target the party and refuse requests of assistance from German intelligence that could be used to surveil the AfD.

Cotton also asked for a review of whether U.S. intelligence under former President Joe Biden, a Democrat, cooperated with German requests to surveil the AfD or other opposition parties, and notify the Senate of the findings of that review.

Gabbard's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The German embassy in Washington also did not immediately respond. The new German chancellor, Friedrich Merz, a conservative, has warned the U.S. to stay out of his country's politics.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Members of Trump's inner circle have voiced support for the AfD. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is now also Trump's national security adviser, said Germany should reverse course on branding the AfD as "extremist."

Vice President JD Vance attacked German bureaucrats for "trying to destroy" the AfD. And close Trump ally billionaire Elon Musk threw his support behind the AfD before Germany's elections and warned against banning it.

(Reporting by Patricia Zengerle; Editing by Alexandra Hudson)
By P.J. Huffstutter and Leah Douglas

CHICAGO/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Democrats in the U.S. Senate have asked the Department of Agriculture to explain why billionaire Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency must approve certain government farm loans and loan guarantees before they are issued, according to a copy of a letter seen by Reuters.

The lawmakers also told USDA they wanted details about how such reviews are being conducted and whether DOGE will be vetting other USDA farm assistance programs, according to the letter.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Farmers rely heavily on loans to pay for operational expenses including seeds, fertilizers and pesticides, or to buy land. The USDA's Farm Service Agency (FSA) typically offers loans to farmers who have trouble accessing credit through traditional lending institutions.

The letter, led by U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, was sent late Tuesday to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, according to an aide. It was signed by 16 senators, including Ron Wyden, Adam Schiff and others.

The letter comes after Reuters reported on an April 29 memo outlining policy changes related to USDA FSA farm loan programs. According to the memo, the new policy requires that farm loans and loan guarantees over $500,000 must be reviewed and cleared by the agency's chief financial officer and DOGE employees.

The same applies for loans and guarantees of any size issued to so-called "formal entities", such as a farm business limited liability corporation. The policy change is in compliance with an executive order on government cost efficiency, according to the memo.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Because most farming operations are structured as some type of entity, this requirement could impact a large number of loans and loan guarantees," according to the letter sent to Rollins on Tuesday.

The lawmakers said that in addition to raising privacy concerns, the change could cause financial uncertainty and delays for qualified borrowers.

USDA officials could not immediately be reached for comment late Tuesday. The agency previously told Reuters such reviews do not cause undue delay and that most direct aid to individuals is exempt from the process.

Klobuchar is the top Democrat on the Senate Agriculture Committee, and Schiff is also a committee member. Wyden is the top Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee.

(Reporting By P.J. Huffstutter in Chicago and Leah Douglas in Washington; Editing by Stephen Coates)
(NewsNation)  The Department of Defense announced Monday the United States successfully completed two test flights of a reusable hypersonic aircraft, marking a significant step in the development of weapons capable of flying more than five times the speed of sound.

The advancement helps close the gap in hypersonic technology between the U.S. and rival powers like China and Russia, both of which already have hypersonic weapons at their disposal. Russia has used hypersonic missiles in its war against Ukraine.

US Army pausing helicopter training flights around Pentagon

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The aircraft can attack from great distances and maneuver in ways that aim to trick adversaries and dodge traditional defenses. They are capable of carrying both conventional explosives and nuclear warheads.

Ballistic missiles can also travel at these hypersonic speeds; however, they have to follow a flight path. This makes them much easier to intercept before they reach their target. The U.S. also has cruise missiles, which can move around but travel much more slowly.

Pentagon hired tech startups to help with hypersonic aircraft

Under pressure from Congress to increase progress on hypersonic technology, the Pentagon, whose funding for its development has lagged over the years, enlisted two tech startups  Stratolaunch and Ursa Major.

Hegseth directs 20% cut to top military leadership positions

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The recent test flights involved an autonomous drone, the Talon-A, which was carried up from the Mojave Desert by a larger Roc carrier aircraft over the Pacific Ocean. The flights, conducted in December and March, reached speeds of Mach 5, the hypersonic threshold, according to the Pentagon.

According to the Wall Street Journal, hypersonic missiles are crucial, since they can travel anywhere in the world in less than an hour.

The Talon-As reusability is critical, allowing faster turnaround between missions and reducing costs.

What was the X-15 program?

The test marks the countrys first return to reusable hypersonic flight trials since the manned X-15 program ended nearly 60 years ago, highlighting the urgency of advancing Americas hypersonic capabilities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The North American X-15 hypersonic aircraft was operated by NASA and the U.S. Air Force. In 1967, it reached its highest speed of 4,520 mph. The program allowed 12 pilots to fly on nearly 200 flights. Some pilots were even classified as astronauts by exceeding 50 miles in altitude.

NASA research pilot Bill Dana poses in front of the hypersonic X-15 aircraft, October 24, 1967. Image courtesy National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). (Photo by Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images) Aerial view of the 3.5-Foot Hypersonic Tunnel Complex at the Ames Research Center, Moffett Federal Airfield, California, 1977. Image courtesy National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). (Photo by Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images) Branch Chief Thomas Canning stands beside a Hypersonic Free-Flight Aerodynamic Facility combustion-driven shock tube at Ames Research Center, Mountain View, California, 1966. Image courtesy National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). (Photo by Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images) (Original Caption) This artists rendering illustrates the advanced hypersonic concept in entry vehicles achieved by Lockhead-California Company Engineers. The Fuselage is uniquely contoured to provide aerodynamic control in both high and low speed regimes. The design breakthrough eliminates the outer fins, which means that a smaller surface area is exposed to high temperature as the hypersonic craft flies back through the atmosphere and returns to earth for landing. Photograph of the NASA engineer mounting the M-1 Lifting Body in the throat of the Hypersonic Tunnel at the NASA Ames Research Center, Mountain View, California, 1964. Image courtesy National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). (Photo by Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images)

According to NASA, the program completed its purpose of supporting piloted hypersonic flight within and outside the Earths atmosphere.

The history of hypersonics is full of examples of successful programs that we have shut down prematurely, usually because of money, Mark J. Lewis, president and chief executive officer of Purdue Applied Research Institute, told the Wall Street Journal.

China, Russia have hypersonic aircraft readily available

China and Russia have hypersonic aircraft readily available, which could alter the United States strategic plans, according to the Journal. These aircraft could be used to go around the early warning systems the U.S. has in place for detecting attacks. They could also be used to hit naval aircraft carriers and key bases.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chinese companies eye moves to US amid sky-high tariffs

In the South China Sea, even with the most advanced warship, the U.S. could still be defenseless against a hypersonic aircraft, the Journal reported. Hypersonic missiles could double Beijings reach, leaving U.S. ships defenseless, and could even strike Guam, where thousands of U.S. troops are stationed.

A former Pentagon senior official told the Journal that since the late 1960s, China has tested hypersonic flight at about ten times the rate of the U.S.

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 President JD Vance emphasized his country's close ties to Europe at an event on Wednesday, just months after his divisive speech at the Munich Security Conference (MSC) sparked outrage.

"I do still very much think that the United States and Europe are on the same team," Vance said at an event organized by the MSC in Washington.

Vance drew ire from European leaders when he publicly scolded them in a controversial speech at the MSC in February, accusing them of restricting free speech, endangering democracy, excluding populist parties and failing to heed opposition to migration.
By Nora Eckert and Nathan Gomes

DETROIT (Reuters) -Ford Motor suspended its annual guidance on Monday because of uncertainty around U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs, saying the levies would cost the company about $1.5 billion in adjusted earnings before interest and taxes.

"It's still too early to fully understand our competitors' responses to these tariffs," Ford CEO Jim Farley told analysts on Monday evening. "It's clear, however, that in this new environment, automakers with the largest U.S. footprint will have a big advantage."

Ford reported after the close of the U.S. stock trading session, and its shares fell about 2.3% in after-hours trade.

The tariffs are expected to add $2.5 billion in costs overall for the year, mainly related to expenses from importing vehicles from Mexico and China, Ford executives said. The automaker suspended automotive exports to China, but still imports vehicles like its Lincoln Nautilus from the country.

Company executives said it has been able to reduce about $1 billion of that cost through various actions, including transporting vehicles from Mexico to Canada using bond carriers, so they are not subject to U.S. tariffs.

In February, the Dearborn, Michigan automaker projected earnings before interest and taxes of $7.0 billion to $8.5 billion for 2025. That forecast did not take tariffs into account.

The automaker's Chief Financial Officer Sherry House said it was on track to meet that guidance, excluding the fallout from tariffs.

While rivals such as General Motors recently provided updated guidance, Ford executives said they suspended the company's outlook until they have more clarity about the effect of retaliatory tariffs, as well as how consumers may react to price increases.

"Its a bold move for them to withdraw guidance when GM gave revised guidance including tariffs, though to be fair things are very uncertain," said Morningstar Research analyst David Whiston.

OFFSETTING TARIFF COSTS

Ford's earnings per share fell to 14 cents in the first quarter, far surpassing LSEG analysts' estimate of 2 cents per share but down from 49 cents a year earlier. Cost and quality improvements helped Ford beat expectations, executives said.

Earlier this year, the automaker had warned that first-quarter results would be affected by production disruptions related to product launches at several plants. Net income fell sharply to $471 million from $1.3 billion a year earlier.

Ford's revenue fell 5% to $40.7 billion in the quarter but beat expectations of about $36 billion. Earnings got a boost as consumers rushed to snatch up vehicles, concerned tariffs would lead to price hikes. Ford was one of a few automakers that ran incentives to grab market share during this buying frenzy.
The Frederick City Council on Thursday took a step toward allowing potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars to be spent aiding Frederick residents with rent, utilities, or security deposits.

The new language is part of an update to a rental licensing ordinance the council passed in 2022, which required all rental facilities to obtain a license from the city.

The council voted 3-1 in favor of updating the language of its rental licensing ordinance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Council Members Katie Nash, Donna Kuzemchak and Derek Shackelford voted in favor. Council Member Kelly Russell voted against.

Council Member Ben MacShane was absent from the meeting on Thursday.

Under the rental licensing ordinance, landlords must meet minimum health and safety standards outlined in the ordinance and pay $240 per residential unit, according to the city website. Licenses are effective for two years.

The city raised over $630,000 in money from the fund in its fiscal year 2024. None of the money had yet been spent as of Jan. 1, The Frederick News-Post previously reported.

City spokesperson Allen Etzler said on Thursday that to his knowledge, none of the funds had yet been used.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Russell said she did not think the intent of the ordinance was to take money from landlords and give it to renters.

My understanding ... was that it was intended to assist people who had been evicted basically because of our ordinance, Russell said.

Kuzemchak said the ordinance was always intended to be used to help renters.

I voted for [the rental licensing ordinance in 2023] and you voted against it, so I think as it was intended, as a person who voted for it, I probably know that, Kuzemchak said to Russell on Thursday.

The original language of the ordinance split the money raised by the ordinance into three funds: 20% for rental assistance, 30% to cover costs associated with tenant relocation necessitated by the enforcement of the ordinance, and 50% for affordable housing conservation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The goal of the affordable housing conservation fund is to provide one-time payments for projects to established homeowners, the News-Post has reported.

The original ordinance only designated the rental assistance funds for use in the event that of required vacation of a rental unit.

As part of the ordinance, the city does random inspections to enforce its health and safety standards.

Of the 802 initial random inspections conducted by the city in 2024, around 280, or 35%, of the inspections resulted in a violation, according to a report provided to the committee.

Just two of those violations resulted in tenants being forced to temporarily relocate, and both instances were caused by the tenant, Code Enforcement Manager Brittany Parks said in a City Council Housing, Health and Education Committee meeting in February.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The landlords provided temporary units, meaning the tenant protection fund was not used.

In February, MacShane said the rental assistance portion was meant to help renters afford rent in more than just if they have to vacate a unit.

The updated ordinance expands the usage of the rental assistance fund and folds the tenant protection portion into the rental assistance fund.

This means that 50% of the funds raised by the ordinance can be used for rental assistance, as well as helping tenants in the event of a forced relocation due to enforcement of the ordinance.

The guidelines for how the money could be spent were supposed to be finished by July 1, 2023, according to the original ordinance language.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The updated language says subject to the approval of the City Council, the Director of Housing and Human Services will establish regulations on exactly how the rental assistance fund will be spent.

The city of Frederick currently does not have a director of housing and human services.

Etzler said a workshop on the usage of the funds is scheduled for June 5.
University of Texas System regents have named Prabhas Moghe, Rutgers Universitys chief academic officer, as the sole finalist in the running to become UT-Dallas next president.

Regents unanimously voted on May 7 to name Mogue. The decision comes after UT-Dallas President Richard C. Benson announced last year he will step down.

They officially named Moghe president on Friday, after a 21-day waiting period required by Texas law. He would likely start his presidency this summer or early fall, following the end of the 2024-25 academic year, according to a news release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A presidential search advisory committee chaired by UT System Chancellor JB Milliken recommended Moghes selection. The committee praised Moghes leadership experience and academic background.

Dr. Moghes record of strengthening educational pathways and propelling research agendas forward reflect many of UT Dallass strengths and continued aspirations. He has a deep appreciation for UTDs mission and extraordinary ascendancy among top universities, Milliken said.

Moghe has a long academic career. He joined Rutgers University in New Jersey in 1995. There, he was appointed a distinguished professor of biomedical engineering and chemical and biochemical engineering. He became the schools executive vice president for academic affairs in 2020. He was responsible for managing academic and research operations across four campuses and 29 academic units.

Moghe, who was born in Bombay, India, came to the United States as an international student at the University of Minnesota. He shared his experience in an interview with Rutgers Today, a university publication.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I had flown thousands of miles from the warmest place on the planet, to a country I had never visited, Moghe said. But I always knew that I had to keep moving on and I was going to the top graduate program in the world at the time for chemical engineering.

UT-Dallas is a public research university located in Richardson. It enrolled 29,886 students in fall 2024, including students from 130 countries.

Moghes appointment comes at a challenging time for the school. Earlier this year, at least 19 international students from UT-Dallas were among thousands across the country who had their visas revoked. A subsequent federal court ruling temporarily restored several Texas students visas, including at least one for a student from UT-Dallas.

Federal immigration authorities had said they were targeting international students who participated in pro-Palestinian protests last year, though many of the students whose status was revoked had not protested. They appeared to have been targeted because of minor offenses or other interactions with law enforcement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last spring, at least 17 pro-Palestinian protesters were arrested at UT-Dallas. The administration called in law enforcement during the demonstrations, drawing criticism from some student groups.

Kate McGee contributed to this story.

Disclosure: University of Texas System 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.

First round of TribFest speakers announced! Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Maureen Dowd; U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-San Antonio; Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker; U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff, D-California; and U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Dallas are taking the stage Nov. 1315 in Austin. Get your tickets today!
OREM, Utah (ABC4)  Police are searching for the owner of two envelopes full of cash after a 12 and 13-year-old found the money and turned it over to officers, according to the Orem Police Department.

The envelopes were found near the Mountain View High School stadium during a track meet and were still wet from Tuesdays rain, officials said. The department said they praise the adolescents honesty in turning the money over.

While no one has claimed the cash as of yet, there are a few clues from the envelopes. The name Anderson and the words 2011 Sienna were written on the outside of the Chase Bank-branded envelope. Police say anyone who claims the money is theirs needs to be prepared to verify all kinds of information.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Police did not reveal the total amount of money inside, saying anyone who claims it will need to confirm they know the missing amount first. Police said false claims will be punished by written essay.

Many of the comments on the departments post praised the young boys for turning the envelopes in, writing, Nice to know there are still good people in this world and We should all be proud of those two honest kids.

One thing Ill always defend is that there are a LOT of good people in [the] Orem area, one commenter wrote.

Envelopes of cash found by two boys in Orem. (Credit: Orem Police Department)

Anyone wishing to claim the money can contact the Orem Police Department through social media or by calling 801-229-7070.

Latest headlines:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
WASHINGTON COUNTY, Utah (ABC4)  U.S. House Republicans on Wednesday passed an amendment to the budget that would authorize the sale of thousands of acres of public lands on the West Coast, including Utah.

According to the Associated Press, the land sale provision put forward by Rep. Celeste Maloy (R-Utah) and Rep. Mark Amodei (R-Nevada) would sell thousands of acres of public lands, including 11,000 acres of public land between Washington County, Beaver County and Nevada. It also calls for some of the parcels to be considered for affordable housing projects.

The House Natural Resources Committee adopted the land sales proposal early Wednesday morning.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

House Republicans push to sell thousands of acres of public lands in Utah

Rep. Malloy gave the following statement to ABC4:

Washington County and Beaver County are landlocked and growing quickly, but cannot function because of endless red tape on federal lands. At their request, I introduced an amendment to convey, at fair market value, targeted land  land needed by local governments for infrastructure. This land comprises only a third of a percentage of federal lands in the state. The net impact will be to reduce the debt and deficit.

During the hearing, House Natural Resources Committee spokesperson John Seibels said, The sales from these small parcels of land will generate significant federal revenue, and have broad local support. Its a tailored, parochial budgetary measure.

Utah city leaders react

In a statement to ABC4, St. George City said this move would be critical to their water infrastructure needs in the future. They add, the acquisition of these properties would be used for a variety of purposes, such as protecting well sites near Gunlock Reservoir, securing land for potential expansion of the St. George Regional Water Reclamation Facility, St. George Regional Airport Expansion and purchasing land from the BLM around Graveyard Wash.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

RELATED: US Supreme Court rejects Utah lawsuit over public lands

The city also said that a small percentage of this acquisition would be used for the construction of affordable housing.

Jordan Hess, Legislative Affairs Director with Washington City, said housing is becoming increasingly unaffordable in the city. The median sold home price in Washington County hit $530,000 in March of 2025.

We appreciate and support any legislative activity that would open up federal lands to affordable housing development and give municipalities another avenue through which they can increase the supply of more affordable housing, Hess added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Supporters emphasize that this land comprises less than a third of one percent of all federal land in Utah, and its largely adjacent to existing cities. Organizations like the Sierra Club have been opposing the move.

Franque Bains the Utah Chapter Director of the Sierra Club gave the following statement to ABC4:

If this proposal becomes law, thousands of acres that generations of Utahns have explored, hunted, treasured, and more would be sold off to the highest bidder. And given what some members of Congress have said, this could be just the first step. Some of these parcels are right next to popular national parks and conservation areas  could Bears Ears be next? Could Arches or Zion? We strongly oppose any attempts to recklessly sell public lands through legislative shortcuts like budget reconciliation.

The Western Watersheds Project also condemned the provision, stating that the sale of these lands would cut off access for recreation, displace wildlife, and eliminate future land-based economies across the West.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Executive Director of the Western Watersheds Project Erik Molvar said, To wildlife, to all Americans, and to future generations, these public lands are priceless. Reducing them to line items on a balance sheet is an attack on our collective inheritance of recreational wonderlands, awe-inspiring vistas, and key habitats for dwindling wildlife.

A Colorado College survey found that Western Americans overwhelmingly support protecting public lands.

How much land does the federal government own in Utah?

According to the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, the federal government owns 64.4% of Utahs total land area. In 2024, the federal government collected $186.3 million in natural resources revenue from rents, bonuses, and royalties and disbursed $93.7 million back to Utah. The federal governments revenue from natural resource extraction varies year to year and peaked in 2008 at $552.4 million.

The amendment is attached to the larger budget reconciliation package which has yet to get a vote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

ABC4 has reached out to Beaver County for a comment and is waiting to hear back.

Lindsay Aerts and the Associated Press contributed to this story.

Latest headlines:

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.
SALT LAKE CITY (AP)  Attorneys for a Utah man who has been on death row for 37 years sought to convince a state judge Wednesday that the convicted murderer should be spared execution because he has dementia.

Ralph Leroy Menzies was sentenced to die in 1988 for the killing of Maurine Hunsaker, a mother of three. His attorneys said the 67-year-old inmate's dementia is so severe that he cannot understand why he is facing execution.

If he is deemed competent, Menzies could be the next U.S. prisoner executed by firing squad after the method was used on two South Carolina men in recent weeks: a man convicted of killing his ex-girlfriends parents in 2001 and a man who killed an off duty police officer in 2004.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Medical experts brought in by prosecutors have said Menzies still has the mental capacity to understand his situation, while those brought in by the defense said he does not. Prosecutor Daniel Boyer urged the judge Wednesday to move forward with the execution.

The hearing was the last in Menzies competency case. Judge Matthew Bates said he would have a decision within the next 60 days.

Lindsey Layer, a lawyer for Menzies, described how the inmate often forgets to renew his medications and can no longer do laundry because she said he has forgotten how washing machines work. She compared his aptitude at using a tablet to that of her 3-year-old child.

I imagine your 3-year-old also understands that if he sneaks a cookie out of the cookie jar, he's going to go on time out, Bates responded. So it seems like what you're arguing is that Mr. Menzies' understanding of his impending execution needs to be more than that of a 3-year-old.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Layer agreed.

Menzies is not the first person to receive a dementia diagnosis while awaiting execution.

The U.S. Supreme Court in 2019 blocked the execution of a man with dementia in Alabama, ruling Vernon Madison was protected against execution under a constitutional prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment. Madison, who killed a police officer in 1985, died in prison in 2020.

That case followed earlier Supreme Court rulings barring executions of people with severe mental illness. If a defendant cannot understand why they are dying, the Supreme Court said, then an execution is not carrying out the retribution that society is seeking.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It's not just about mental illness. It can be also the consequence of brain damage or stroke or dementia  the fundamental question being whether he has a rational understanding of the reasons he is being executed, said Robin Maher, executive director of the Death Penalty Information Center.

More than half of all prisoners sentenced to death in the U.S. spend more than 18 years on death row, according to the organization.

Menzies earlier chose a firing squad as his method of execution. Utah death row inmates sentenced before May 2004 were given a choice between that and lethal injection. For inmates sentenced in the state after that date, lethal injection is the default method of execution unless the drugs are unavailable.

Since 1977 only five prisoners in the U.S. have been executed by firing squad. Three were in Utah, most recently in 2010, and the others in South Carolina. Only three other states  Idaho, Mississippi and Oklahoma  allow the execution method.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hunsaker, a 26-year-old married mother of three, was abducted by Menzies from the gas station where she worked. She was later found strangled and her throat cut at a picnic area in the Wasatch Mountains of northern Utah. Menzies had Hunsakers wallet and several other belongings when he was jailed on unrelated matters. He was convicted of first-degree murder and other crimes.

Over nearly four decades, attorneys for Menzies filed multiple appeals that delayed his death sentence, which had been scheduled at least twice before it was pushed back.

Matt Hunsaker, who was 10 years old when his mother was killed, testified Wednesday that the ongoing case has caused his family emotional turmoil. He expressed gratitude that it might finally be over soon.

This has gone on for decades, he said. Thirty-nine years, two months and nine days ago, my mom was murdered. We miss her. We love her.

___

Brown reported from Billings, Montana.
The U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Geological Survey have different lists when it comes to the definition of a critical mineral.

The inconsistency creates uncertainty for industry and the supply chain, and Sens. Mike Lee, R-Utah, and Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., want to fix that.

Kelly partnered with Lee in the introduction of the Critical Mineral Consistency Act of 2025, to remove the disparities among the lists.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee approved the bill to advance last week.

The act attempts to align the Department of Energy and Department of Interior lists to decrease confusion among industries and federal agencies.

These conflicting federal standards hinder America from building resilient supply chains, Kelly said, according to a story in The Center Square.

At its introduction earlier this year, Lee  who chairs Senate Energy and Natural Resources  said the act is vital.

The Critical Mineral Consistency Act of 2025 will make it easier for Americas energy producers to harness our nations abundant resources and support affordable, reliable energy production. Aligning the DOEs Critical Materials List and the DOIs Critical Minerals List will increase transparency within our federal agencies, ensuring all of our nations critical resources are developed, traded, and produced equally, and strengthen our supply chains, Lee said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kelly was equally adamant.

Copper and other critical materials are essential to our energy security, manufacturing and national defense, but federal bureaucracy has created confusion for producers, Kelly said.

Were cutting through the red tape to make sure Arizonas copper producers and other critical material suppliers can access the resources they need to strengthen our supply chains and support American jobs.

Kelly said the conflicting federal standards hinder America from building resilient supply chains, and a coordinated national strategy helps reduce dependence on adversarial nations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2024, similar legislation was introduced to streamline definitions.

At that time, Rep. Pete Stauber, R-Minn., said amendments to the Energy Act of 2020 would streamline classifications between the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Geological Survey.

The two agencies use different criteria and do not take into consideration the same parameters leading to sometimes very different lists. Notably, the USGS list does not take into account the forward looking data and analysis such as international demand and growth trajectories that the DOE list does, he said. Accordingly, the USGS list omits important minerals like copper, and others.

This latest measure has the support of the mining industry.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We firmly believe all minerals are critical, and this commonsense legislation is an important step forward, said Rich Nolan, president and chief executive officer of the National Mining Association.

The bipartisan and bicameral Critical Mineral Consistency Act is a win for American miners, for domestic supply chain security and is essential to ensuring domestic production can increasingly meet soaring demand.

Nolan also praised a late night move Tuesday by the House Natural Resources Committee in its partial passage of a reconciliation measure aimed at boosting energy development on public lands.

According to committee chairman Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., the bill has the potential to generate $18 billion via a sharp uptick in coal, oil, gas and mineral leases.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The package drew angry criticism from Democrats and environmental groups, as well as others, who accuse the GOP of stripping protections from public lands.

Taxpayers for Common Sense had this to say:

Lawmakers should reject any attempt to jam these policies into a budget deal. Reconciliation shouldnt be a Trojan horse for giveaways and loopholes that bypass normal process and public scrutiny. Americas public lands and natural resources belong to the taxpayersand they should not be sold off for bargain basement prices."

But minerals, and their definition, remain a top issue.

Utahs role

The state is home to a bevy of critical minerals, some of which are found only here.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Utah has the potential to offer up to 40 of the 50 minerals as critical to the economic health and national security of the United States.

At a recent trade mission to Canada by Utah Gov. Spencer Cox, the states mining powerhouse status was underscored. During the trip, findings from a survey were revealed from a 2024 report by the Canadian Fraser Institute.

The survey placed six Canadian provinces and territories, including Quebec, in its top-10 list of locations with abundant mineral deposits and favorable policy environments. However, it found that the best place, not just in North America, but in the world, for mining investment was Utah.

Accordingly, this new effort to streamline definitions has the backing of the Utah Mining Association.

The bill brings consistency to federal mineral designations and signals to the private sectors the importance of continued investment and development of mining operations targeting copper and other important minerals which have heretofore been left off the federal critical minerals list, said Brian Somers, president of the association.
Attorney General Jason Miyares, flanked by special counsel Theo Stamos (right) and Chief Deputy Attorney General Chuck Slemp (left) speaks to the media about the release of his investigative report on the Virginia Parole Board in 2023. (Graham Moomaw/Virginia Mercury)

Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares announced on Tuesday that the state will investigate Loudoun County Public Schools following a media report that the school division launched a Title IX investigation after three high school boys said they felt uncomfortable when a biologically female student changed clothes in a boys locker room and recorded their discussion about it.

Loudouns school policy allows students to use bathrooms and locker rooms based on their gender identification instead of their biological sex. But Seth Wolfe, the parent of one of the three boys, said his 15-year-old son is being unfairly targeted for simply asking a basic question that any boy would be asking in that situation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its astonishing that Loudoun school officials are subjecting him to a formal investigation for a bogus charge that could derail his life, Wolfe said in a statement released by the Founding Freedoms Law Center, which is representing the student.

In a WJLA report on Tuesday, Wolfe criticized LCPS for investigating his son and the other students for expressing their discomfort with the male-identifying student being in the boys locker room and said the divisions bathroom policy creates an unsafe environment for all students. An attorney with the law center confirmed with the Mercury that Wolfe was the unidentified parent in WJLAs report.

On May 6, Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced that he asked Miyares to investigate the case to ensure the school division is upholding every students privacy, dignity and safety.

Its deeply concerning to read reports of yet another incident in Loudoun County schools where members of the opposite sex are violating the privacy of students in locker rooms, Youngkin said in a statement. Even more alarming, the victims of this violation are the ones being investigated  this is beyond belief.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Miyares added that the case is just the latest example of what happens when school boards disregard common sense. The safety, dignity, and privacy of every student in Virginia should be non-negotiable. This is about safety and privacy, not political correctness  and its time Loudoun County recognized that.

The school division said in a statement that it was deeply disheartening to see an elected official, which they did not identify by name, rely on the media report to publicly criticize LCPS.

The division added that the report by WJLA contains false and misleading information. The school system said it would not discuss the specifics of the incident in recognition of students privacy but defended its policies and commitment to student safety.

We reject any characterization that implies our schools are unsafe or that we fail to protect the rights of all students, the school division stated. We remain steadfast in our legal and ethical obligation to uphold the rights of every student and will continue to create and nurture an environment that is welcoming and accepting for all students, so that everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and succeed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2023, Loudoun County Public Schools announced it was launching a pilot program to support students and staff concerning restroom privacy and safety. The goal was to increase accessibility and allow students a choice to use the multi-fixture, gender-specific restrooms or single-occupancy restrooms in all LCPS facilities, the division said.

Stone Bridge High School, which Wolfes son and the other students attend and where the locker room recording occurred, was not part of the pilot program.

This situation is not the first time Loudoun schools have made headlines for issues involving students gender identity. In 2021 the school division faced criticism and a $30 million lawsuit over how it responded after a teenage male student was found guilty of assaulting two female students at two different schools over six months. In the first incident, the male student was wearing a skirt when he attacked a female student in a girls bathroom, but theres no evidence the male student identified as female.

The Loudoun County Court ordered the teen to receive immediate treatment and register as a sex offender. Since then, the school board has adjusted policies and hired a new superintendent.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To align Virginia school divisions with the governors sustained advocacy for parents rights, the governors administration overhauled the states model policies for the treatment of transgender students in 2023.

Some of the key changes included requiring students to use the locker room corresponding to their sex, unless federal laws state otherwise, requiring schools to notify parents if a student is permitted to use a locker room that differs from their biological sex and allowing parents to opt their child out and use alternative facilities.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
A nurse gives an MMR vaccine at the Utah County Health Department on April 29, 2019, in Provo, Utah. The vaccine is 97% effective against measles when two doses are administered. (Photo by George Frey/Getty Images)

Five additional measles cases have been reported in Williams County, with health officials now concerned about community transmission, the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services said late Tuesday.

The new cases bring North Dakotas total to nine.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The newly confirmed cases are people who were unvaccinated and had no reported contact with people previously diagnosed, the department said.

Four people diagnosed with measles were in Williston schools while infectious, according to a news release.

Unvaccinated students should be excluded from school for 21 days under North Dakota Century Code, the department said. Staff without documentation of the measles, mumps, rubella vaccine who were not born before 1957 should also be excluded. The department advised unvaccinated staff and children in the affected schools to stay home and monitor for symptoms.

These are the affected schools and dates of exclusion:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Missouri Ridge Elementary: May 7  May 23

Williston Middle School: May 7  May 21

Williston High School: May 7  May 21

In addition, anyone who visited the Williston Walmart between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. on April 29 is encouraged to monitor for symptoms and contact a health care provider if symptoms develop.

Because of concerns about community transmission, health officials recommend that all residents and visitors to Williams County ensure they are vaccinated against measles. Immunization records can be reviewed at hhs.nd.gov/IRR or by contacting a provider.

The Upper Missouri District Health Unit is holding vaccination clinics at 110 W. Broadway, Williston, from 1-7 p.m. Thursday and 8:30 to 6 p.m. Friday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The department identified the first measles case on Friday, a Williams County child who was not vaccinated and believed to have contracted the illness from an out-of-state visitor. Four additional cases confirmed Monday were unvaccinated people who had contact with the child, officials said.

For information about measles, vaccines or local clinic availability, contact the HHS Immunization Unit at 701-328-2378 or visit hhs.nd.gov/measles.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
US Vice President JD Vance on Wednesday congratulated newly appointed German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on behalf of President Donald Trump, a day after the conservative took the helm in Berlin.

"I wanted to, of course, from the president issue our congratulations to Chancellor Merz," Vance said at an event organized by the Munich Security Conference (MSC) in Washington.

"I know that we'll have a conversation with him the next couple of days, but we're looking forward to it," he added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Vance drew ire from European leaders when he publicly scolded them in a controversial speech at the MSC in February, accusing them of restricting free speech, endangering democracy, excluding populist parties and failing to heed opposition to migration.

In an interview published before the speech, he also criticized Germany's political mainstream for refusing to cooperate with the far-right, anti-immigrant Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which came in second in February's parliamentary election behind Merz's conservatives.

In response, Merz told the United States not to interfere in the election campaign.

Merz was sworn in as the 10th chancellor in post-war Germany on Tuesday, but needed an unprecedented two attempts to be elected to the post by lawmakers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump, who is usually quick to take to his Truth Social platform to comment on current affairs, has not commented on the hiccup, nor has he publicly extended his congratulations to Merz.

In comments to public broadcaster ZDF, Merz said he plans to speak to Trump by phone on Thursday. According to the German leader, the two have yet to meet in person.
Cincinnati hasn't had a Republican mayor in more than 50 years, and that streak isn't in danger based on Tuesday's primary election results.

Incumbent Mayor Aftab Pureval is poised to cruise into a second term with little resistance. He dominated the low-turnout primary with 82.5% of the vote, according to unofficial results from the Hamilton County Board of Elections. Republican Cory Bowman, Vice President J.D. Vance's half-brother, came in a distant second with 13% of the vote.

More: What the primary tells us about Hyde Park, JD Vance, and the November election

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The two men will now go head-to-head in November for the mayor's seat. Barring some scandal or self-inflicted political wounds by Pureval, I don't expect the outcome to change. Bowman, who has struggled to rally support, might get beaten even worse in a general election when more voters usually turn out.

Cincinnati mayor Aftab Pureval during The Cincinnati Enquirer mayoral debate at the Covedale Center for the Arts Tuesday, March 25, 2025.

Pureval expressed gratitude to the people of Cincinnati.

"Election Day is always a special day in our democracy. It is our opportunity as citizens to make our voices heard and choose the direction we want our city to go in the next four years. I don't take lightly the responsibility the voters have given me over the past three years," Pureval told me in a phone interview.

Of Tuesday's election results, he said, "I'm not sure I can read anything into it other than the people think the city is on the right path."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bowman, a West End pastor and coffee shop owner, kept the faith despite the Grand Canyon-sized vote gap between him and Pureval. Advancing to November in his first political campaign was the goal, he said. I reached out to Bowman, but he didn't immediately return my call or text.

"What I will say is that looks like he had a good head start, but we're kind of catching up a little bit," Bowman told the Enquirer. "So once I see the numbers there, I'll know what our mission, our focus needs to be going into November.

More: Forget the mayor's race. 27 want to run for Cincinnati City Council

A good head start? I guess that's one way of looking at it, if you're wearing rose-colored glasses. Here's a more clear-eyed view. Bowman has a 16,000-vote Mount Everest he must climb the next six months in a Democratic-leaning city. He got less than 3,000 votes and won only two of 190 precincts. I'll be generous and say the chances of overcoming those numbers are highly improbable.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bowman's family ties might have helped him outlast Republican Brian Frank, whose performance was more dismal with less than 5% of the vote, but riding Vance's coattails won't be enough to unseat Pureval. The vice president endorsed Bowman just hours before the polls closed, seemingly without much effect.

Hey Cincinnati! My brother Cory Bowman is running for mayor and is on the ballot today for the primary. Hes a good guy with a heart for serving his community. Get out there and vote for him!  JD Vance (@JDVance) May 6, 2025

If Bowman wants any shot at a more respectable finish in November, he needs to give Cincinnatians a reason to vote for him. That starts with doing a better job of articulating his vision and plans for the city. Saying what you don't like and that new leadership is needed simply isn't enough.

I'm glad that Bowman and Frank decided to run against Pureval. I think the public loses anytime candidates run unopposed for elected office. Citizens benefit whenever candidates have to debate their ideas, explain their vision, and defend their records. Seeing the contrast and having a choice matters.

That's why I'm hoping Bowman can step up his game in the months ahead.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Is he serious about being Cincinnati's mayor, or is he more interested in trading on his half-brother's celebrity for his own 15 minutes of fame? He managed to get featured in POLITICO Magazine before the primary.

Winning might not be the point. Bowman could simply be using this race to raise his national profile or position himself for other political opportunities down the road. (Hey, it worked for Vivek Ramaswamy.) If so, that's even more of a reason for him to make a decent showing. The political future isn't typically bright for candidates who get trounced in elections.

Cincinnati mayoral candidate Cory Bowman makes a statement as polling numbers show him trailing behind incumbent mayor Aftab Pureval, and advancing to the general election, at his election night party in the West End neighborhood of Cincinnati on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

Meanwhile, Pureval has his sights set on another four years as mayor in what could be his last election. Nothing is certain, but Pureval said the thought of stepping away from politics after a second term has crossed his mind.

"A lot of politics is timing, and there may not be an opportunity for me in elected office given the political realities in the state," Pureval said. "My goal was never to be a career politician. It was to do the most good with the time that I have. I'm genuinely passionate about public service, but that may not take the role of electoral politics."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But that's a conversation for the future. Pureval said he's focused on the two most important jobs he has right now: being mayor and being a father to two sons under five.

"You have a very brief amount of time in these roles, and I feel a sense of urgency to get the difficult things done and set Cincinnati up for success after I'm gone," Pureval said.

Bowman doesn't have much time either. He'd better start knocking on some more doors. After Tuesday, the one to the mayor's office might already be closed.

Opinion and Engagement Editor Kevin S. Aldridge can be reached at kaldridge@enquirer.com. On X: @kevaldrid.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: JD Vance's endorsement didn't help Bowman in mayoral primary | Opinion
Brandon Bell / Getty Images

Ford (F) reported first-quarter earnings that topped analysts expectations, but suspended its full-year forecast amid worries about an uncertain auto tariff environment.

Ford said it expects to take a $1.5 billion hit to its adjusted earnings before interest and taxes this year related to tariffs, and suspended its full-year outlook, pointing to "potential for industrywide supply chain disruption."

The company reported adjusted earnings per share of 14 cents for the first quarter, down 71% year-over-year, on revenue that fell 5% to $40.7 billion. Analysts were expecting a loss of 1 cent per share on revenue of $38.49 million, according to the consensus compiled by Visible Alpha.

Last week, rival Detroit automaker General Motors (GM) slashed its outlook, warning that the Trump administration's auto tariffs could have a $4 billion to $5 billion impact on its full-year profit. While Ford and GM produce most of their cars in the U.S., many parts used to build them are imported.

Ford shares fell about 3% in after-hours trading. The stock has lost close to a fifth of its value over the past 12 months through Monday's close.



Read the original article on Investopedia
US Vice President JD Vance has said he is "still optimistic" about the possibility of ending the war between Russia and Ukraine, noting that Washington is now waiting for Kyiv and Moscow to agree to engage directly with each other.

Source: Vance in an interview at the Munich Security Conference in Washington on 7 May, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Vance was asked how the US plans to act in a situation where the Russian government appears uninterested in ending the fighting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I'm not yet that pessimistic on this, I wouldn't say that the Russians are 'uninterested'," Vance said. "What I would say is right now the Russians are asking for a certain set of concessions in order to end the conflict. We think they're asking for too much."

He recalled President Donald Trump's words that he might "walk away" if American efforts fail.

"The step that we would like to make right now is: we would like both the Russians and the Ukrainians to actually agree on some basic guidelines for sitting down and talking to one another," Vance said. "Obviously the United States is happy to participate in those conversations, but it's very important for the Russians and the Ukrainians to start talking to one another."

He acknowledged that there remains a huge gulf between the Russian and Ukrainian positions on what would constitute an acceptable end to the war.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We think the next step in the negotiation is to try to close that gulf," Vance said, adding that direct talks between the two sides are probably essential.

The US vice president made it clear that Washington is no longer prioritising the 30-day ceasefire proposal, which Ukraine had unconditionally accepted.

"The Ukrainians have said they would agree to a 30-day ceasefire, we appreciate that," he stressed. "What the Russians have said is a 30-day ceasefire is not in our strategic interests. We've tried to move beyond the obsession with the 30-day ceasefire and [focus] more on what would the long-term settlement look like."

Quote from Vance: "We think that if cool heads prevail here, we can bring this thing to a durable peace that will be economically beneficial for both the Ukrainians and the Russians, and most importantly, will stop the destruction of human lives."

Background:

Trump believes that Putin's proposal for a "three-day truce" is "a lot" compared to what happened before.

He also suggested that the Russian leader has become more willing to make peace after the recent drop in oil prices.

Meanwhile, Trump's special envoy for Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, has proposed the idea of a demilitarised zone that would be controlled by both Ukraine and Russia.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
Vice President JD Vance said Wednesday that Russia is asking for too much to end its war with Ukraine, underscoring new frustrations in the Trump White House over its efforts to court Moscow on peace talks.

Speaking to the Munich Leaders Meeting in Washington, he said that the U.S. is focusing on a long-term settlement since Russia has rejected the U.S. call for a 30-day ceasefire. Moscow has said that sort of temporary pause is not in its strategic interest because it would allow Ukraine to regroup.

Vance stressed that Russia is likely to have to make concessions  the latest sign that the Trump administration is willing to get more aggressive with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Russians are asking for a certain set of requirements, a certain set of concessions in order to end the conflict. We think theyre asking for too much, Vance said.

The vice president was channeling growing impatience in the White House with Putin. Late last month President Donald Trump said Putin may just be tapping me along and suggested he may employ sanctions to change the dynamic.

Maybe he doesnt want to stop the war, Trump said of Putin on his Truth Social platform in April. The post came after Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Rome.

Vance said in his speech Wednesday that Trump was prepared to walk away from the talks but stopped short of threatening sanctions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said the next step is to get Ukraine and Russia to agree to talk to each other.

We would like both the Russians and the Ukrainians to actually agree on some basic guidelines for sitting down and talking to one another, Vance said. That is the next big step wed like to take.

He said that hes not yet a pessimist on the process even though theres a big gulf between where the Russians and Ukrainians are. He said that its probably impossible for the U.S. to mediate between the parties without them having at least some direct contact.

Vance, speaking to the audience of senior transatlantic leaders visiting Washington, struck a much more diplomatic tone than his fiery speech before the Munich Security Conference in February and touted the importance of U.S.-European ties, saying that they are on the same civilizational team. The Munich Leaders Meeting is put on by the Munich Security Conference organization.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

With tension palpable in the room  filled with many sharp critics of Trump and skeptics of his administrations approach to transatlantic ties  Vance said he was having fun at the confab and joked that his team was very nervous.

He said he was not sure he would be invited back to address the group after his February appearance in Munich. There he stunned the audience by lashing out at European governments, criticizing them for ignoring the will of their people, overturning elections, ignoring religious freedoms and failing to stop illegal migration.

At the end of the question-and-answer session with former German ambassador to the United States and chair of the Munich Security Conference Wolfgang Ischinger, Vance revisited his controversial speech. While his tone was more conciliatory, he repeated his warnings for the continent, which he said also applied to the U.S.

It's not Europe bad, and America good, he said. I think that both Europe and the United States, we've gotten a little bit off track, and I'd encourage us all to get back on track together.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Vances remarks appeared to calm tensions among those gathered at the meeting in Washington at least a little.

I came into the speech pretty nervous, said one conference goer, a Western European. I left slightly less nervous.

Another attendee noted the softer tone but said there were a lot of questions left unanswered. How many concessions are you willing to offer Russia? If Ukraine cant join NATO what will you do to prevent future Russian invasions? Because without hard defense commitments to Ukraine we all know it will happen again.

Some remained troubled by his attitude toward Moscow. All participants were granted anonymity as the two-day event was held under Chatham House Rules, which stipulates that participants may be quoted but not their names or affiliations, to facilitate more candid conversations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He charmed, he cleaned up from the February speech, he reassured, he made everything okay, said a third participant. But to come off as somehow neutral between Russia and Ukraine is morally repugnant. One side is the aggressor, one the victim fighting for its survival. Nice speeches cant change that.

As Vance spoke, the United States and Germanys new government were in a fresh public spat over Berlins decision to label its far-right political party, the AfD, as an extremist group.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio lambasted the decision by the German government last week as tyranny in disguise and said the establishment parties deadly open border immigration policies were what was extremist.

New German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called that an absurd observation in an interview with public broadcaster ZDF on Tuesday.

I would like to encourage and exhort the American government to leave German domestic politics to Germany and to largely stay out of these partisan considerations, he said at that interview.
The US government currently considers Russia's conditions for ending the war in Ukraine to be excessive, Vice President JD Vance told a Washington event on Wednesday hosted by the Munich Security Conference.

"The Russians are asking for a certain set of requirements, a certain set of concessions in order to end the conflict. We think they're asking for too much," Vance said.

At the same time, he emphasized the importance of understanding the Kremlin's perspective.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"You don't have to agree with the Russian justification for the war, and certainly, both the president and I have criticized the full scale invasion, but you have to try to understand where the other side is coming from," he said.

Vance added that he would not claim that the Russian side is uninterested in finding a solution, but noted there is currently a significant gap between Ukraine and Russia.

The goal, he said, must be to bridge this divide through dialogue. The United States is "happy to participate in those conversations," he said.

But he stressed that "it's very important for the Russians and the Ukrainians to start talking to one another." Without at least some direct discussions between the two sides, Vance said it would be "probably impossible" for the United States to mediate.
By Crispian Balmer, Joshua McElwee and Philip Pullella

VATICAN CITY (Reuters) -

Black smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday evening, signalling an inconclusive first vote by cardinals locked in the Sistine Chapel in a conclave to elect a new pope to guide the Roman Catholic Church.

Thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square waiting for smoke to pour from a narrow flue on the roof of the chapel at the end of a day rich in ritual and pageantry, with prelates praying for divine guidance in their secret ballot.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The crowds had to be patient as it took longer than expected for the smoke to appear, more than three hours after the start of the conclave. This was an hour more than it took for smoke to be seen after the first vote in the 2013 conclave that picked the late Pope Francis.

When a pope is chosen, white smoke will emerge, but this had not been expected on Wednesday - a pontiff has not been picked on the first day of a conclave in modern times.

However, some cardinals said this week that they hoped to wrap things up by Thursday or Friday to show the Church can remain unified after the often divisive, 12-year papacy of Francis, who died last month.

The 133 cardinal electors, who are all aged under 80, will spend the night secluded in one of two Vatican guesthouses - where they can continue their deliberations in a more informal setting before returning to the chapel on Thursday morning.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Following Wednesday's single round of voting, the red-hatted "princes of the Church" will hold two votes in the morning session and two in the afternoon, continuing in coming days until one man has secured a majority of at least two-thirds - 89 cardinals this time around.

Their only communication with the outside world will be the smoke from the chimney as they burn their completed ballot papers mixed with special chemicals - black when a voting session ends with no result, white when a pontiff is elected.

Modern papal conclaves are typically short. The 2013 conclave lasted just two days, likewise in 2005 when his predecessor, Benedict XVI, was picked.

In recent days, cardinals have offered different assessments of what they are looking for in the next pontiff who will lead the 1.4-billion-member Church.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While some have called for continuity with Francis' vision of greater openness and reform, others have said they want to turn the clock back and embrace old traditions. Many have indicated they want a more predictable, measured pontificate.

'GOOD OF THE CHURCH'

In a sermon ahead of the conclave, Italian Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, who at 91 is too old to take part in the vote, told his fellow prelates they must set aside "every personal consideration" in choosing the new pontiff and keep in mind "only ... the good of the Church and of humanity".

He also suggested the next pope had to respect diversity within the Church. "Unity does not mean uniformity, but a firm and profound communion in diversity," he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some ultra-conservatives had branded Francis as a heretic, accusing him of being too welcoming to the LGBT community, too accommodating to Protestants and Muslims and too open on a range of topics, including offering communion for the divorced.

No clear favourite has emerged, although Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle are considered the front-runners.

However, if it quickly becomes obvious that neither can win, votes are likely to shift to other contenders, with the electors possibly coalescing around geography, doctrinal affinity or common languages.

Among other potential candidates are France's Jean-Marc Aveline, Hungary's Peter Erdo, American Robert Prevost and Italy's Pierbattista Pizzaballa.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A record 133 cardinals from 70 countries entered the Sistine Chapel, up from 115 from 48 nations in the last conclave in 2013 - growth that reflects efforts by Francis during his 12-year reign to extend the geographical reach of the Church.

Among their considerations will be whether they should seek a pope from the global South where congregations are growing, as they did in 2013 with Francis, from Argentina, or hand back the reins to Europe, or even pick a first U.S. pope.

Latin chants and organ music accompanied the cardinals as they processed into the frescoed Sistine Chapel before the conclave began, with Michelangelo's depiction of Christ delivering the Last Judgment dominating the 500-year-old room.

They laid their hands on the Gospels, taking a vow of secrecy not to divulge anything about their gathering.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Archbishop Diego Ravelli, the Vatican's master of ceremonies, then pronounced the Latin command "Extra omnes!" (Everyone out!) telling those not involved in the gathering to leave the room, with the chapel's heavy wooden doors slamming shut on the outside world.

There is not meant to be any discussion in the voting sessions but past experience suggests there will be plenty of covert campaigning during breaks and meals as the names of "papabili" rise and fall in successive ballots.

(Reporting by Crispian Balmer, Joshua McElwee and Philip Pullella; Editing by Alexandra Hudson, Janet Lawrence and Frances Kerry)
By Natalia Siniawski

(Reuters) -U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Tuesday he welcomed the successful rescue of five Venezuelan opposition members holed up for political protect in the Argentine embassy in Caracas.

"Following a precise operation, all hostages are now safely on U.S. soil," Rubio said on X.

The five people, close allies of opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, have been living in the embassy since March 2024, after Venezuela's attorney general accused them of conspiracy and warrants were issued for their arrests.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Venezuela's information ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Brazil's government, which had been providing political protection to the embassy, said it had not yet been informed.

Rubio did not provide specific details about the operation.

Machado, meanwhile, hailed an "impeccable and epic operation" in a post X.

"We are going to free every one of our 900 imprisoned heroes," Machado added in reference to different politicians and activists who have been detained in the last year.

The Argentine government said on X that it appreciated the successful operation that allowed the safe transfer of the five Venezuelans sheltered at the embassy to the U.S.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In December 2024, Fernando Martinez, another opposition advisor who had been living at the embassy handed himself in to the attorney general's office. He died in February this year.

Officials regularly accuse the opposition of conspiring with countries such as the United States to commit terrorism, overthrow Maduro and attack Venezuela's power grid. The opposition has always denied the accusations.

The Argentine residence is currently under Brazilian custody after Buenos Aires cut relations with Caracas over the 2024 election, which the opposition says it won and for which it has published ballot box level vote tallies.

Maduro was declared the winner by electoral authorities and the country's top court, though authorities have not offered ballot box level tallies of the votes.

(Reporting by Natalia Siniawski, Julia Symmes Cobb, Lisandra Paraguassu and Jasper Ward and Gabriel Araujo; Editing by Sarah Morland and Michael Perry)
(Reuters) -Venezuela's interior minister on Wednesday said the exit of Venezuelan opposition members from Argentina's diplomatic residence in Caracas was negotiated, after the opposition said the operation took the government by surprise.

Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello did not provide details, but said the individuals had left the Argentine ambassador's residence via a "negotiation."

"In the end, they ended up negotiating... everything was negotiated. They can say whatever they want now, they can put on whatever show they want  it's the absolute truth," said Cabello.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Tuesday that five opposition staffers, who had been living in the residence since March 2024 after warrants were issued for their arrest, had made it to U.S. soil.

Cabello on Wednesday said four individuals had left the residence.

Earlier on Wednesday, Venezuela's main opposition coalition said that the "international rescue" operation had taken President Nicolas Maduro by surprise.

"This operation is a testimony to the dedication of many people, who, to the surprise of the regime of Nicolas Maduro, managed to break the chains of oppression," the opposition coalition said in a statement shared on X.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Maduro has been in Russia this week, where he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and signed a strategic partnership.

The opposition coalition said the five staffers would share reflections about their experience "in the coming days." Reuters was unable to independently confirm their current location.

While in the Argentine residence, the five had regularly used social media to share videos of state security forces outside the building, where the electricity and water were repeatedly cut, sometimes for weeks at a time.

The statement from the opposition thanked U.S. President Donald Trump, Rubio and Argentine President Javier Milei for their role in the operation. It did not give further details.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Argentine residence in Caracas has been under Brazilian custody since Buenos Aires cut relations with Maduro's government over the 2024 election, which the opposition and its backers say was won by Edmundo Gonzalez, now living in Spain.

Brazil was not involved in any operation to remove the staffers from the residence, a Brazilian diplomatic source said on Wednesday. Brazil's government said in a statement that it had repeatedly tried to obtain safe passage for the staffers, however.

Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado hailed the operation late on Tuesday and called for the release of 900 other politicians and activists detained last year.

Two sources told Reuters on Wednesday that Machado's elderly mother - 85-year-old Corina Parisca de Machado - had also left Venezuela.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cabello said on Wednesday that Parisca de Machado had left on Monday via Bogota, Colombia.

Since the election, Machado, who is in hiding in Venezuela, has regularly complained of security forces gathering outside her mother's home.

(Reporting by Reuters, additional reporting by Lisandra Paraguassu in Brasilia; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien and Lincoln Feast.)
Fortuna Mining is reportedly exploring new opportunities in Guinea following its strategic exit from Burkina Faso, where it faced regulatory instability and high security costs.

The Canadian mining company, currently not established in Guinea, is actively conducting site visits and engaging with local authorities to seek gold mining prospects, according to a report by Reuters.

Fortuna CEO Jorge Ganoza was quoted by the news agency as saying: "We find Guinea to be a place we would invest today.

A portion of the company's increasing exploration budget is earmarked for Guinea, where Ganoza sees a lot of room for discovery.

This move underscores the shifting dynamics in West Africa's mining landscape, where military-led governments are revising mining codes and grappling with jihadist threats.

Burkina Faso, along with Mali and Niger, has experienced military coups since 2020, leading to new mining codes aimed at bolstering local control.

These countries have also taken assertive measures against foreign mining companies, including arrests and asset seizures.

In contrast, Guinea, under military rule since a 2021 coup, has not revised its mining code but has exerted pressure on foreign companies regarding project timelines.

"We don't see the same situations as we see today in Mali or Burkina Faso or Niger," Ganoza added.

Fortuna's recent departure from Burkina Faso involved selling the Yaramoko gold mine for $130m (C$179.32m), despite losing an estimated 70,000oz of gold production.

Ganoza described the sale as a very compelling offer, given the mine's dwindling reserves and the $7m annual security costs incurred due to jihadist threats.

The company had to adopt a complete fly-in, fly-out basis for all personnel in Burkina Faso, with ground transportation deemed too risky.

Moreover, Ganoza criticised the Burkinabe Government's demand for up to 30% state participation in mining companies as part of the new mining code implemented in July 2024, which he believes is not competitive, the report said.

Fortuna's withdrawal from Burkina Faso follows a similar move by Endeavour Mining last year.

Globally, Fortuna is boosting its exploration and project development investment to $51m this year, up from $41m in 2024.

Besides Guinea, the company is focusing on Senegal's Diamba Sud gold project and expanding its operations in Ivory Coast, where its flagship Seguela gold mine is situated.

"Fortuna Mining explores investments in Guinea for gold mining opportunities" was originally created and published by Mining Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.
Five Venezuelan opposition figures that had been sheltering in the Argentinian embassy in Caracas for over a year left the compound and were in the United States, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Tuesday.

"The U.S. welcomes the successful rescue of all hostages held by the Maduro regime at the Argentinian Embassy in Caracas," Rubio said in a post on social media platform X.

"Following a precise operation, all hostages are now safely on U.S. soil. Maduro's illegitimate regime has undermined Venezuela's institutions, violated human rights, and endangered our regional security," Rubio said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rubio did not provide details on the operation.

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado also confirmed the news and spoke of an "impeccable and epic operation for freedom of these five Venezuelan heroes."

Argentine President Javier Milei thanked all those involved, especially Rubio "for his personal commitment."

There was no immediate comment from the Venezuelan government.

The opposition figures had sought refuge in the Argentine embassy in Caracas in March 2024 after arrest warrants were issued against them.

They claimed that they lived in the compound without electricity, with limited water supplies and under constant surveillance by security forces and snipers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Argentinian embassy staff were expelled from the Caracas compound after Buenos Aires did not recognize authoritarian ruler Nicolas Maduro's victory in the July presidential election, which was marred by allegations of fraud.

Opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez claimed victory, and he was recognized by the US, Canada and several Latin American countries as the winner.

The election authority declared Maduro, who has been in power for almost 12 years, the winner of the election. His third term is due to go to 2031.
Vermont lawmakers are considering whether to ban the use of cell phone and personal electronic devices, like smart watches, in schools in light of growing concerns that such devices hinder learning and negatively impact behavior.

The proposed house bill, called H.54 and currently being marked up in committee, would also heavily restrict social media usage in schools, including prohibiting teachers from communicating with students via social media.

It is the intent of the General Assembly for all students in Vermont to access the benefits of a phone- and social media-free school environment, which promotes focus, improved mental health, and increased social cohesion, the bill reads.

Gov. Kim Reynolds signs a bill banning cell phones in schools at the Iowa State Capitol on April 30, 2025, in Des Moines.

Vermonts proposed legislation would require each Vermont public or independent school to create and implement its own policy that, at minimum, places firm restrictions on cell phone and personal electronic usage from the time students arrive at school until dismissal. The bill also applies to career and technical education centers and prequalified private prekindergarten programs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As H.54 currently stands, schools could opt for a complete ban on personal devices or provide a designated area on campus or a secure place to store them, such as in a device locker or lockable pouch.

The bill does allow for a few exceptions. Students may keep possession of personal electronic devices if a doctor or registered nurse deems it medically necessary or if an individual education program or 504 plan requires it.

If passed in both chambers and signed into law, the bills cell phone and social media communication ban would begin on Dec. 1 of this year. Vermont would join at least eight other states in banning or restricting cell phones in schools. Some Vermont schools have already adopted policies limiting student phone use.

The case for banning phones from schools

H.54 labels cell phones and social media as major contributors to Vermonts expensive youth mental health crisis, which the bill says has cost taxpayers nearly $53 million in new school mental health positions alone.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As evidence, the proposed legislation references former U.S Surgeon General Vivek Murthys message to Congress last June where he advised lawmakers to place warning labels on social media websites and requested schools ensure that classroom learning and social time are phone-free experiences. Similarly, 83% of Vermont National Education Associations members support phone prohibitions in schools, the NEA reported in Aug. 2024.

The bill also points to data showing hazing, harassment and bullying incidents decreased at a Lamoille County high school after the implementation of a phone-free school day policy.

Not everyone is sold on a complete cell phone ban, however. On April 30, several Vermont students told the house education committee they dont agree with a blanket ban, arguing that cell phones can be a supportive learning tool, such as helping students conduct research, record audio and snap pictures of homework material from books they cant take home.

The same day, Connecticut State Board of Education Vice Chair Erin Benham spoke in favor of her states current cell phone policies, which limit personal usage but allow schools to incorporate cell phones into their curriculum to prepare students to function in a digital world.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Megan Stewart is a government accountability reporter for the Burlington Free Press. Contact her at mstewartyounger@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Burlington Free Press: Vermont legislature considers ban cell phones from schools: Why?
PORTAGE, Mich. (WOOD)  When youve been married for over 50 years, you see and deal with a lot. But one Portage couple couldnt have guessed they would live through a devastating tornado.

I thought, This is how we are going to die, Laurice Bray said.

I just held my wife, Jim Bray said.

Weathering West Michigan: Portage Pride

The emotions from that day are still there one year later. Jim and Laurice Bray are grateful to be alive.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We survived a tornado, for heavens sake, Jim Bray said.

Around 6 p.m. on May 7, 2024, the sky turned ominous.

It was sort of a greenish bluish blackish color coming at us, Jim Bray remembered.

Thought we were gonna die: Tornado destroys homes, businesses in Portage area

Laurice Bray said she turned the television to News 8 to learn the tornado was headed right for their neighborhood.

And we knew when (meteorologist Blake Harms) said Take cover, Laurice Bray said.

The Brays quickly went to their safe place: the bathroom.

As were closing the door, I could see out my window, and it was just pitch black, and theres just a lot of debris flying every which direction, Jim Bray said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Being in that bathroom in the darkness, and just feeling your life is going to end, probably it was a feeling I had never had, Laurice Bray said.

Families forced from homes after Portage tornado

Jim Bray had his arms around his wife.

We told each other that we loved each other, Laurice Bray said.

Jim and Laurice Bray recount the day a tornado touched down in Portage on May 7, 2024.

Just seconds after closing the bathroom door, Jim Bray said they heard a loud sound.

We just heard this thump, which was the 14 trees falling on the back side of our house, he said.

About two minutes later, the couple breathed a sigh of relief.

Everything was still here, we were alive, the storm was gone, said Jim Bray.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Buildings destroyed, trees down after tornadoes in SW MI

While the Brays home was damaged, they would soon find out their neighbors at Oak Brook Estates in Portage had it worse. Homes were damaged, destroyed, flipped over and tossed down the road.

As people were taking a look at what happened, there was another tornado warning. Thankfully, there was no second confirmed tornado in that area. Regardless, the storm left a mess behind and kept first responders busy all night.

The damage was extensive, with four confirmed tornadoes in West Michigan. Pavilion Estates east of Portage was severely hit, along with Timbercreek Court in Portage and, farther south, the village of Sherwood.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We are very grateful and blessed that there were no fatalities and the eight people that went to the hospital, it was for minor injuries, Portage Mayor Patricia Randall said the day after the storm. We do have over 100 families removed from their houses as weve gone door to door. The damage is that extensive people can no longer live there.

Its not safe: 911 calls flood dispatch amid tornadoes

The Brays home has been repaired, but the reminders of what happened are all around them.

Its always back here, always in the back of your head that something could happen at any minute, youre not really in control of it, Jim Bray said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But one of the things that continues to provide them comfort is the love they have for one another.

Were still here, Jim Bray 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 WOODTV.com.
An Altamonte Springs business, Global Procurement Solutions, shared an awesome story with us here at Channel 9 about saving a baby kitten.

The kitten was located in a storm drain and was crying out for help when a business employee happened to be passing by.

The team at GPS tried to help the kitten first by lifting the grate and crawling in to retrieve the scared animal.

Finally, the team was able to get in contact with someone to bring a humane trap to the grate to rescue the kitten safely.

The team is happy to report that the kitten was safely recovered this morning and is on the way to the vet to receive any treatment she may need.

The business, Global Procurement Solutions, is based in Altamonte Springs and provides supplies for local VA medical centers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Also be aware that this time of year is kitten season and many little guys like this might be out there.

READ: Pet Alliance Of Greater Orlando kicks off Kitten Con

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
EAU CLAIRE  The former manager of a local VFW post was in court Tuesday, though little came of the proceeding.

Jennifer Simonson, 43, Eau Claire, faces a single count of theft in a business setting involving an amount between $10,000 and $100,000. The charge is a Class G felony.

Tuesdays proceeding saw Simonson waive a preliminary hearing, a very early step in criminal cases. The court accepted the waiver and ordered her scheduled for arraignment, a hearing at which Simonson will enter a formal plea.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the criminal complaint, police were called to VFW Post 7232 in June 2024 when the accounts for the post didnt match up with the books. A review by the posts accountant found nearly $80,000 missing.

The money was placed in a safe at the VFW, but large amounts never made it to the bank. Officials with the VFW told investigators only two people had access to the safe: Simonson and the person who reported the missing money.

Investigators learned Simonson had been resistant to efforts to better track the VFWs money. She does not fill out tracking slips, the complaint said, and in fact Simonson refuses to. Instead, Simonson gave the VFW only the bank receipts for deposits.

The VFW had proposed other methods of tracking the revenues and deposits, notably having two people count the money before it was deposited. That suggestion, made shortly after initial discrepancies were found, was also rejected by Simonson.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigators concluded other evidence also pointed toward Simonson as a suspect. When she was on vacation for a week there were only minor differences between the receipts and deposits, the kind of errors that can be caused by an error in giving change. But when she was working there were considerably larger variations, including a number that lined up closely with large cash deposits into her own bank accounts. One such deposit involved $10,000.

When investigators reviewed video from the VFWs security cameras, they spotted Simonson at the safe on multiple occasions, including one on which she was recorded simply removing money and putting it in her purse.

Simonson denied involvement when she was confronted by investigators, saying she was confused by how the money kept going missing. But the complaint noted that she never returned to work after that interview.

Simonson posted a $15,000 bond after her arrest. Under Wisconsin law the charge carries up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000.
Designer Victor Alfaro is trying to put the brakes on Roland Auctions plans for a sale of photographs that were taken by and given to him by Bruce Weber.

Looking to shelve the May 31 scheduled auction, Alfaro said his attorney would be sending a cease-and-desist letter to the Glen Cove, N.Y.-based auction house Wednesday because this is stolen property.

More from WWD

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Miami-based designer said he was notified a few months ago by the storage facility in Newark, N.J., that he was using that there had been a flood. They said they had to open the units to see what the damage was, which was very bizarre, Alfaro said, adding that he was told the items had to be moved out. We got rid of a lot of wet clothes and other stuff. But what was taken out and by who? I dont even know.

After starting his career in fashion, Alfaro has shifted his focus into interiors for hotels and private residences. His portfolio includes designing five venues for the Gansevoort Hotel Group.

The salvageable items from that unit were later moved to a Bronx, N.Y., storage facility and one of his assistants went with the moving company. While the items in the Newark facility had been there for seven years, Alfaro said he didnt even know what was there, but certain furniture that he thought should be there was not. I dont know how this happened. It could have been the employees from the storage unit. There are all these graft-y people all over, or maybe [it was] the people, who transported it, Alfaro said.

Weber declined to comment through a spokesperson.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The designer said that never in a million years would he have expected there to be any interest in Christmas cards that were sent to him and other personal items. He also noted that some of the items in the Roland Auction sale were not correctly identified, including a portrait of him that was attributed to Weber but was shot by Francesco Scavullo. Another personal photograph was taken by Karl Lagerfeld, not Bruce Weber, Alfaro said.

This Victor Alfaro portrait was not taken by Bruce Weber, according to Alfaro.

Bill Roland, co-owner of Roland Auctions, said that according to the consignor, who he knows and believes, he won the contents of the storage unit through an online auction and later drove to the New Jersey storage unit. He has all of the receipts, the documentation that is necessary and videotape that he took when he opened the storage unit. He thought it hadnt been opened in years, because there was five inches of dust over the padlocks. When he got inside, there were a lot of boxes with Victor Alfaros name and a barcode. When he purchased the contents, the paperwork had formerly belonging to Victor Alfaro,' the spokesperson said.

Earlier Wednesday the Roland Auctions spokesperson said the photographs and other personal items had been found in an abandoned storage unit that belonged to Alfaro in New Jersey earlier this year. A Long Island, N.Y.-based collector, whose identity is not being shared publicly, is behind the sale, the spokesperson said. Some of the images from the sales nearly 50 lots had been posted and remained online as of Wednesday afternoon.

Images from the boxed set The Twins From Madrid.

There were multiple black-and-white photos of bare-chested men including several nude ones of twin brothers Juan and Cesar Hortoneda. There was also a silver gelatin print of Naomi Campbell with a cell phone clasped to her ear that was taken for a 1995 issue of Vogue Italia that has a presale estimate between $1,200 and $2,000. Another print of a vintage Abercrombie & Fitch ad of a male model wearing briefs showing off his biceps in a muscleman shirt has a presale estimate of $100.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Roland Auctions was amending the online descriptions of some of the images, including references to shoots in Montauk and Little Bear Ranch. A press release from the company that had been sent to WWD Monday referred to private ranches or secluded outdoor settings described in lawsuits without any substantiation. In 2021, Weber and six male models settled their legal battles over alleged sexual misconduct out of court.

Best of WWD

Sign up for WWD's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
VIENNA, Ohio (WKBN)  Vienna voters have passed a levy that would benefit the townships fire department.

Read next: Election results

Just over 50 percent of voters voted for the levy, according to unofficial voting returns.

Vienna is trying to build its fire departments ambulance service back up while the township remains in fiscal emergency.

Last month, Chief Gus Birch told WKBN that the fire department has been relying on volunteers, who are in short supply.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The township asked voters to approve a five-year, 3.5 mills additional levy, which would generate $480,000 a year for the fire department. The money would allow the department to bring back part-time personnel.

Vienna Township Trustee Michael Haddle said it replaces two 1-mill levies currently on the books.

Im so grateful for the township and the residents to give us this opportunity, starting to put that trust back into the leadership of the township, Haddle said.

The levy will cost $122.50 a year for the owner of a home appraised at $100,000. It would be a $77 a year increase since the other two levies would no longer be in play.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Nadine Grimley 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.
[Source]

A 55-year-old Vietnamese refugee with dementia reportedly died of natural causes while in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody at the Long Term Acute Care Hospital in El Paso, Texas on April 16.

Some negligence?

Nhon Ngoc Nguyen, who came to the U.S. in July 1983 and was granted legal status under the Refugee Act of 1980, was detained during a Feb. 24 appointment with ICE in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he had been living since 2018. An autopsy revealed that he died of acute pneumonia, with dementia listed as a secondary cause.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, his attorney, Tin Nguyen, said his family believes there was some negligence on ICEs part. We dont know the details of what happened in his last days at the hospital, Tin Nguyen told the Albuquerque Journal. I think there are a lot of questions that need to be answered in how ICE treats people who are sick.

Trending on NextShark: Daniel Dae Kim is first Asian American to be nominated for Tony lead actor award

The family, who lives in Dallas, reportedly did not know Nguyens whereabouts from mid-February until late March when ICE informed them he was ready for release but required constant medical care.

What ICE is saying

In a press release, ICE noted that Nguyen had a 1991 conviction for second-degree murder in California, which violated his residency terms. The agency said he was arrested based on his final order of removal with the significant likelihood of removal in the reasonably foreseeable future to Vietnam following a 2013 deportation order.

Trending on NextShark: Vietnamese refugee suffering from dementia dies in ICE custody in Texas

From Feb. 26 until his death, Nguyen was transferred multiple times between the El Paso Processing Center and hospitals for treatment. The agency said it coordinated closely with Nguyens attorney to identify and contact Nguyens family members able to take custody and care for him in the United States to no avail.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

ICE maintained that it remains committed to ensuring that all those in its custody reside in safe, secure and humane environments and that comprehensive medical care is provided from the moment individuals arrive and throughout the entirety of their stay.

Sparking protest

Trending on NextShark: Korean American astronaut Jonny Kim shares gochujang burger recipe from space

Nguyens death has drawn attention from immigrant rights activists. At May Day rallies across New Mexico on May 1, thousands reportedly gathered in events that celebrated workers and expressed solidarity with those targeted by the Trump administration, including immigrants.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Attendees in Albuquerques Tiguex Park carried Nguyens photo. A statement from his nephew, Duke Nguyen, was read aloud.

Trending on NextShark: Indian American student wearing pro-Trump hat attacked near WSU

This story is part of The Rebel Yellow Newsletter  a bold weekly newsletter from the creators of NextShark, reclaiming our stories and celebrating Asian American voices.

Subscribe free to join the movement. If you love what were building, consider becoming a paid member  your support helps us grow our team, investigate impactful stories, and uplift our community.

Subscribe here now!

Trending on NextShark: Michigan lawmaker responds to colleagues insults that she is 'very low IQ'

Download the NextShark App:

Want to keep up to date on Asian American News? Download the NextShark App today!
By Francesco Guarascio and Khanh Vu

HANOI (Reuters) -Vietnam's imports from China and exports to the United States both reached a post-pandemic record in April, amid talks with Washington to reduce Hanoi's trade surplus and a crackdown on Chinese goods being shipped to the U.S. via its territory.

The Southeast Asian nation faces the risk of 46% duties on its exports to the U.S. if the White House confirms this rate at the end of a global tariff pause in July. This could undermine Vietnam's growth model and hit multinationals exporting from the country, including Samsung and Nike.

Hanoi has made multiple offers to the Trump administration to avoid high levies, including clamping down on illegal transshipment of Chinese goods to the U.S. via Vietnam. Goods benefit from lower tariffs if labelled as 'Made in Vietnam'.

However, trade trends that have attracted U.S. criticism are accelerating, potentially complicating Vietnam's efforts to extract U.S. concessions in ongoing trade talks.

The Trump administration wants to reduce trade imbalances, but Vietnam's surplus with the United States - already one of the highest globally - expanded by nearly 25% in the four months to April year on year, according to Vietnam's statistics agency.

In March alone, it exceeded $13.5 billion, the highest monthly figure ever, U.S. data showed.

Manufacturers in Vietnam are ramping up exports to the United States before a possible tariffs hike, multiple industry executives said.

In April, shipments to the U.S. exceeded $12 billion, 34% higher than a year earlier, and the largest value recorded after the COVID-19 pandemic, Vietnam's customs data showed.

Vietnam's Cai Mep deep-sea port, which handles most of the country's sea-borne exports to the United States, is experiencing a surge in shipments to the U.S., said Soren Pedersen, vice president at SSA Marine, which operates a port in Cai Mep and is one of the world's largest port operators.

He told Reuters Cai Mep, which hosts all major shipping companies, including Maersk, MSC and COSCO, has 26 container ships booked for weekly departures to the U.S. in May, "a record high" from an average of 20-22.

"Most container terminals are now operating at or near full capacity," he said, noting that was in anticipation of possible higher tariffs.

CHINA IMPORTS

At the same time, Vietnam is ramping up imports from China, which also reached a post-pandemic record in April, exceeding $15 billion, according to customs data.

Vietnam's exports to the U.S. in recent years have been fuelled by imports from China, with inflows from Beijing closely matching the value and swings of exports to Washington.
This story was originally published on Grocery Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Grocery Dive newsletter.

FreshDirect is resuming service in Pennsylvania and will do the same in Delaware, nearly three years after it pared back its operations.

The grocery delivery company confirmed it relaunched services in five Pennsylvania counties  Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia  on Monday. In approximately two weeks, it will also reenter New Castle County in Delaware. It is offering local customers $50 off purchases over $99, a spokesperson noted.

The decision to resume delivery in these select areas was based on customer feedback, an assessment of operations improvements and strong demand for our return, Lauren Jangl, the spokesperson, said in an email.

FreshDirect announced it was exiting the Philadelphia area in late summer 2022, joining a slew of online grocers that reduced their service areas after the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The company confirmed it also ended services in Delaware and the other four Pennsylvania counties at that time.

FreshDirect also ended services in Washington, D.C., that summer, and the company said Monday that it does not plan to re-enter the region or move into new segments.

These market exits occurred while FreshDirect was still owned by Ahold Delhaize. In late 2023, Getir bought the e-grocery company and, despite Getir pulling out of the U.S., FreshDirect remains operational stateside, the company announced in April 2024.

This move also comes a few months after FreshDirect partnered with Uber Eats to offer same-day and on-demand grocery delivery.

Recommended Reading
LOUDOUN COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now)  Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin and Attorney General Jason Miyares announced Tuesday that they would be launching an investigation into Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) for an alleged incident that happened in a boys locker room.

Details regarding the incident remain limited, however, the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) said three boys complained about the presence of a student  who identifies as a male, different from their biological sex  being in the boys locker room.

That student used their cell phone to record the boys reactions as he entered the locker room, the OAG said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

DC area natives tailor Black style at the Met Gala

Youngkin claimed the incident was a violation of students rights, and Miyares said the investigation is about safety and privacy.

LCPS said this stems from an article published by a news station in the DMV about an incident that happened at Stone Bridge High School. In a statement, school officials said the article contained false and misleading information and called the investigation disheartening.

We reject any characterization that implies our schools are unsafe or that we fail to protect the rights of all students. We remain steadfast in our legal and ethical obligation to uphold the rights of every student and will continue to create and nurture an environment that is welcoming and accepting for all students, so that everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and succeed, a statement from LCPS read.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is just the latest example of what happens when school boards disregard common sense. The safety, dignity, and privacy of every student in Virginia should be non-negotiable. This is about safety and privacy, not political correctness  and its time Loudoun County recognized that, Miyares said in a statement.

DC News Now reached out to the Office of the Attorney General for more information and a statement on the matter.

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 | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
(Photo by Getty Images)

The Virginia Department of Health is investigating a potential pediatric cancer cluster in Southwest Virginia and is hoping to learn more from residents there.

After a group of Scott County residents contacted the Virginia Cancer Registry with concerns about the number of children with cancer in their area, VDHs LENOWISCO Health District is seeking more information.

Cancer clusters are defined as a greater than expected number of the same or related cancer cases that occur within a group of people in the same area over a specific period of time. Cancer clusters are rare, but can be indicative of carcinogenic environmental exposures, genetic predispositions or can simply be random.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While the data collection process for VDH is confidential and designed to help the department investigate the potential cluster, the Virginia Mercury has also created this survey for people interested in sharing their personal experiences with pediatric cancer in or near Scott County, to inform our future reporting. Reach out to reporter Charlotte Rene Woods for more details: cwoods@virginiamercury.com

According to VDH, the state has no proven cancer clusters and only a few have been identified within the United States.

Area residents should fill out this survey or schedule a confidential phone interview by calling 276-386-8019. To participate in the survey, parents or guardians need to verify that the child is under 19 years old, diagnosed with any form of cancer between 2015 and 2025, and a resident of Scott County or living no more than 15 miles outside of the county prior to their diagnosis.

LENOWISCO Health District is collecting information from affected Scott County residents as a first step to investigate these concerns. Following the VDH interview process, the Virginia Cancer Registry will evaluate the collected information and determine if it is a potential cancer cluster.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
Virginia Republicans are reeling from an intraparty fight over a disputed social media account that has pitted lieutenant governor nominee John Reid against Gov. Glenn Youngkins political operation, imperiling the partys chances of holding on to power in this years general election.

The controversy comes as Republicans look to buck historic trends that favor the party out of power in Washington to hold on to the top three statewide offices  governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general  and make gains in the House of Delegates, where all 100 seats are up for reelection in November and where Democrats hold a narrow majority. The upcoming election will also test the governors political power  despite his 2021 win and continued popularity, the party lost the lower chamber in 2023, derailing Youngkins goals of advancing conservative priorities such as restricting abortion rights.

At a time when the party should be unifying, it is instead contending with a mess that has highlighted a rift between evangelicals and other conservatives.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The disagreement erupted late last month following reports that Youngkin asked Reid  the first out gay statewide nominee in Virginia  to leave the race after GOP researchers discovered a since-deleted Tumblr account with a username Reid has used on other social media sites. The account, which Reid has denied he created, reposted nude and sexually explicit photos of men in posts archived as far back as 2014, according to a CNN review of the websites archives captured by the Wayback Machine.

Reid, in an April 25 video defending himself, called the account a total fabricated internet lie and noted that anyone on the internet can open accounts with the same or similar names as other people. The candidate refused to drop out and launched a legal campaign against a top political adviser to Youngkin.

Republicans, including the state GOP, are pushing the party to rally around the ticket and to focus on Democrats.

This was a bad week in April, said Virginia Republican Party Chair Mark Peake. I think things will smooth out a lot in the next month, and then as we head into the fall, youre going to see us going full bore after the Democrats.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Within days, Youngkin and Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, the partys gubernatorial nominee, said it is Reids decision whether to stay in the race. The governor, who is barred under the state constitution from serving a consecutive term, told reporters Friday that Reid is the nominee and that he has clearly made up his mind that hes going to stay in.

Asked whether he would campaign with Reid later this year, the governor suggested he would.

I have said that I will support the nominees and their ticket, and at the end of the day, Republicans need to win, Youngkin said.

Reids decision

Reid, a conservative radio host and past aide to former US Sen. George Allen of Virginia, became the nominee by default last month after the only other candidate, Fairfax County Supervisor Pat Herrity, dropped out to recover from heart surgery. Several Republican leaders, including Youngkin, welcomed Reid to the ticket.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But days later, local outlet The Richmonder reported that Youngkin had asked Reid to drop out after learning of the account.

In a five-minute video on social media addressing the reports, Reid said he had faced repeated calls behind the scenes to drop out over photos of him attending a drag show and because, supposedly, Christian voters would never support me and it was inevitable that I would destroy the ticket and destroy Virginia.

Reid confirmed that Youngkin asked him to decline the nomination after researchers found the contested social media account.

What I didnt expect was the governor I have always supported to call and demand my resignation without even showing me the supposed evidence or offering me a chance to respond, Reid said in the April 25 video. I did not accept that, and I deeply resent it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Much of Reids ire has been directed toward Matt Moran, who until last week was the executive director of Youngkins PAC, Spirit of Virginia. A lawyer for Reid sent Moran a cease-and-desist letter accusing him of making false and defamatory comments about the lieutenant governor nominee by continuing to tie him to the explicit social media account. The letter also accused Moran of threatening to release additional information if Reid did not drop out.

Moran pushed back on the letters accusations in an affidavit posted to social media, saying he supported Reid and was attempting to give him sound advice.

I never attacked John and did not threaten or coerce him, Moran said in the affidavit. I communicated what I truly believed was in his best interests in my judgment.

Moran was replaced in his role with Youngkins PAC by Becca Glover, a former deputy chief of staff to the governor. A spokesperson for Spirit of Virginia referred to the governors public comments.

A Virginia blowout?

At the root of the pushback against Reid has been concerns from some Republicans that evangelical voters will not support him because of his sexual orientation. In 2020, US Rep. Denver Riggleman lost the GOP nomination in the race to hold his Virginia seat after he officiated a same-sex wedding.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Reid allies, however, pointed to the warm reception he received during campaign events in southwest Virginia one day after news broke that the governor asked him to drop out. At one appearance, Rep. Morgan Griffith, who represents part of the region, told GOP activists that he would always support our nominee.

Theres no question that a certain percent of our evangelical voters have concerns about the fact that John Reid is gay, said Peake, the state Republican Party chairman. I think that as we get closer to voting in November  our voters will coalesce behind our candidates.

John Fredericks, a conservative radio host and former co-chair of Donald Trumps 2016 and 2020 campaigns in Virginia, said that he supported Reids campaign and did not agree with voters who dont approve of Reids sexual orientation. However, he also supported Youngkins call for him to step down and worried Reid wouldnt be able to win over some of the evangelicals in the states more conservative southwest region.

Republicans, as a result of this debacle, theyre likely going to get blown out and lose multiple seats in the House, Fredericks said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He called on Earle-Sears to take a stronger stance on Reids place on the ticket. The gubernatorial nominee, he said, should either say she stands by Reid and disagrees with the governor or say he should exit the race. Earle-Sears said in social media post that the decision to stay in the race is Reids and that candidates all have our own race to run.

This is one of these things you cant go halfway, Fredericks said. You either double down or double out. She did neither.

The stakes are high this year for Virginia Republicans, who were facing an uphill climb under the best of circumstances. Virginia Democrats have already started blasting Earle-Sears and Republicans in the House of Delegates over the impact of cuts to the federal workforce on the state.

Allen, the former Virginia governor and senator who reaffirmed his support for Reid after the social media account allegations, has argued Republicans need to focus on the issues that will define the election  from the states right-to-work law to energy policies  if they hope to win. He pointed to Youngkins 2021 victory, fueled by the parental rights movement and a post-2020 election wave that favored the GOP, as a sign of how much has to go right for the party to win in a state former Vice President Kamala Harris carried by nearly 6 points.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

With all of that  a great candidate, great message, plenty of money to get the message out, the political winds to your back  all of that, and he won by 1.9% of the vote, Allen said of Youngkin. Thats how hard it is for a Republican to win statewide in Virginia  and so youve got to try to get your team unified on a positive motivating message.

Some of Reids most prominent supporters are hoping the fissures within the party are being repaired.

Politics is, by its nature, divisive, said former Virginia Gov. Jim Gilmore. Sometimes people get hurt feelings and they dont support the ticket, but the goal is to try to get as much [party unity] as you can.

CNNs Em Steck contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
(Photo by Getty Images)

Under the looming threat of federal consequences for inaction, all 136 local education agencies in the commonwealth  including public schools, the Virginia Juvenile Justice Center and Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind  have officially assured the Virginia Department of Education that theyre complying with parental rights laws.

On March 28, the U.S. Department of Education directed states to provide evidence that schools are complying with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) by April 30. These laws ensure parents have the right to inspect and review education records and student safety standards, and to be notified annually about their rights, military recruiter access to their child, and the schools overall compliance record.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The federal agency sought the information after explaining that it has been overburdened with reports of FERPA complaints that claim schools nationwide have been hiding information from parents, including gender transition records.



As any mother would be, I have been appalled to learn how schools are routinely hiding information about the mental and physical health of their students from parents, said U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon in a March 28 letter. The practice of encouraging children down a path with irreversible repercussions  and hiding it from parents  must end.

The agency warned schools that if they failed to comply, they would face an investigation and loss of federal funding.

The Virginia Department of Education, which provided the school compliance list to USDOE, stated all of the education agencies in the commonwealth exceed federal FERPA expectations by following state law, which sets higher standards for the disclosure of certain student data, such as contact information including addresses, email addresses and telephone numbers.

Under FERPA, the contact information may be designated as directory information and may be disclosed without the consent of a parent or eligible student, unless such person has opted out of such designation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin and his Republican colleagues have made parental rights a cornerstone of his administration and legislative efforts, repeatedly asserting that a parent has a fundamental right to make decisions concerning the upbringing, education, and care of the parents child.

Youngkins administration has enacted several measures to reinforce these rights, including policies requiring parents to be notified about drug overdoses and making mask-wearing in schools optional. The governor also adopted legislation mandating that parents be informed about sexually explicit instructional materials in school libraries.

Last month, the governor tried to amend a bill by adding language from Sages Law, a bill which would have required public school principals to notify at least one parent if a student questions their gender identity or requests the schools participation in social affirmation or transition to a different sex or gender.

However, Youngkins amendment was rejected.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During the regular legislative session earlier this year, House lawmakers failed to take up the proposed Sages Law bill, carried by Del. Nick Freitas, R-Culpeper, for a second straight year. Freitas carried the bill that was first introduced by then-Republican Del. Dave LaRock during the 2023 General Assembly Session. The bill died in the Democratic controlled Senate that year, after passing through the House controlled by Republicans.

Last session, the General Assembly failed to consider the same bill, which Youngkin said allows parents to be informed of the decisions relating to the mental health of their child.

The failure of the Sages Law bill was one of the reasons why the governor last week vetoed a bill, carried by Democrats, designed to encourage school boards to remind parents about the safe storage of firearms and prescription drugs.

He also added that the bill as passed by the legislature mainly concentrates on those two parental responsibilities, omitting other legal obligations, like providing an environment free of abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
Real ID rules took effect Wednesday after more than 20 years.

Ahead of the deadline, thousands of Americans still had not upgraded their state IDs.

At airports in New York City and Atlanta, wait times were low and compliance was high.

Amid warnings of long lines, confusion, and last-minute scrambles, the nationwide Real ID rollout arrived with an unexpected twist: calm.

Leading up to the deadline, some 81% of flyers were presenting adequate ID, the Transportation Security Administration said, leaving hundreds of thousands still in need of an upgrade.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Business Insider reporters were on the ground at two of the US's busiest airports  New York City's LaGuardia Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport  to see how the new rules would play out. We weren't the only ones eager to capture the possible chaos; news crews also littered the terminals, cameras ready.

News crews set up shop at LaGuardia Airport in anticipation of the Real ID rollout on Wednesday. Rengim Mutevellioglu for BI

As the first few hours passed, things appeared surprisingly organized. There were no snaking security lines, travelers largely came prepared with the right documentation, and the TSA ran a two-line strategy to keep things moving.

Wait times were low, and there was a separate system for people without a Real ID

Wednesday is generally a low travel day, and posted wait times for the regular checkpoint at both airports  including across all of their respective terminals  were less than 10 minutes during the morning rush. Even less for TSA PreCheck.

Jayden Martinez, an airport employee in LaGuardia's Terminal B, told BI that travelers without a Real ID are put in a separate security line but that it's "not really affecting the TSA wait times."

Security wait times at LaGuardia's and Atlanta's various checkpoints were only a few minutes during the morning rush. Rengim Mutevellioglu for BI

Everyone with an acceptable ID, including Real IDs and passports, is given a slip of paper indicating they're good to fly. Another employee said there had been far more compliant than noncompliant travelers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Martinez said crowds could change on a busier travel day. Two employees in Terminal C said the same. New York's Real ID compliance is only about 45%.

Across the river in New Jersey, where compliance is among the lowest in the country at about 19%, government-posted TSA wait times at Newark Liberty International Airport were between two and 18 minutes.

In Atlanta, many rows of rope lines were out in apparent anticipation of crowds. But with Georgia reporting nearly 100% compliance, security lines were similarly empty on Wednesday morning.

Rows of extra security lanes went unused at Atlanta on Wednesday morning. Benjamin Zhang

"We've had low Real ID noncompliance, even lower than expected," Alexis Pickeral, the Atlanta airport's lead TSA officer, told BI. People without a Real ID were given a red noncompliance card and faced more thorough screening of their bags and persons. "It doesn't take very long," Pickeral said.

Travelers were budgeting for extra security time

Ahead of the deadline, which was in the works for nearly 20 years, the government and airlines warned about long security queues and encouraged people to arrive earlier than normal. Most appeared to have heeded their advice.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Scott Adkins and Erin Courtney were flying from New York to Illinois, and both knew about the Real ID deadline. They said they arrived an extra 45 minutes early.

Adkins said he got his Real ID years ago without even realizing it, but Courtney wasn't able to get an appointment and instead brought her passport (halfway through her conversation with BI, she double-checked that her passport wasn't expired).

"As soon as they started announcing it, that's when I started thinking about it, but I didn't do anything or try to make an appointment until like a month ago," Courtney said. She added that her local Department of Motor Vehicles was telling people who had passports not to get their Real ID.

Signage informed travelers of the new Real ID requirements. Rengim Mutevellioglu for BI

Two women from Birmingham, Alabama, who were leading a college trip, said they arrived early at LaGuardia. Both had their Real IDs and knew it was the first day of implementation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Getting the updated license, however, wasn't so easy  one of them had to return to the DMV three times and got it only five days ago, they said. For about four months leading up to the trip, they told students they would need to have a Real ID or a passport.

Hayden B, who has a Real ID and was alerted about the enforcement deadline a few weeks before her flight by both Delta Air Lines and the government, said she had no issues at the checkpoint when flying from Las Vegas to Atlanta on Wednesday.

"This was my first time flying. Security took five minutes," she said.

Read the original article on Business Insider
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has stated that fast-tracking Ukraine's accession to the European Union could serve as the strongest security guarantee for the country once peace is achieved.

Source: European Pravda

Details: Speaking at a European Parliament plenary session in Strasbourg on EU support for a just, sustainable, and comprehensive peace in Ukraine, von der Leyen noted that Ukraine's accession to the European Union would be the greatest guarantee of a just and lasting peace.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Quote: "We must accelerate Ukraines path towards membership of our Union. This is not just Ukraines aspiration. It can be the strongest security guarantee. And it was a central focus of my latest meeting with President Zelenskyy in Rome.

The war in Ukraine will eventually come to a halt. And the way the war ends will shape our continent for generations to come."

Details: Von der Leyen noted that "a bad deal could encourage Putin to come back for more. It would be a recipe for more instability and insecurity".

"Instead, a just and lasting peace could usher in a new era of prosperity for Ukraine and help us build a new security architecture for Europe," she stressed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Therefore, von der Leyen outlined three priorities for the EU on the path to a just peace for Ukraine: "First, support Ukraines defence. Second, complete the phase out of Russian fossil fuels. And third, accelerate Ukraines accession path to our Union."

Background:

On 26 April, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and von der Leyen met in Rome after the funeral ceremony for Pope Francis to discuss the establishment of sustainable peace in Ukraine.

Earlier, it was reported that the Trump administration handed over a one-page document to Ukraine in Paris, presented as a "final proposal" for a peace settlement. Among other things, the US is prepared to recognise Russia's control over Ukrainian Crimea and ease sanctions against Moscow.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
A sign directs voters to a ballot drop box outside the Chester County Government Center on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024. (Capital-Star/Peter Hall)

(This article was updated Wednesday, May 7, 2025, to correct Rep. Brad Roaes district.)

Pennsylvania lawmakers will consider a package of election reforms including a voter ID requirement and changes to the commonwealths vote-by-mail law after a House committee passed the long-debated measures.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Most Democrats have staunchly opposed proposals requiring voters to prove their identities every time they vote but leaders have recently expressed a willingness to negotiate in exchange for support on other measures to modernize Pennsylvanias election system.

On Tuesday, House Bill 771, sponsored by Rep. Thomas Mehaffie (R-Dauphin) passed with a bipartisan 14-12 vote in the House State Government Committee. Democratic Reps John Inglis of Allegheny County and Nancy Guenst of Montgomery County voted in support.

The committee voted along party lines, however, to approve an omnibus bill that would eliminate ambiguity in Act 77, the law that gave Pennsylvanians the option to vote by mail without an excuse for the first time in 2020.

The vote-by-mail provision has been the subject of numerous lawsuits, including one now before the U.S. Supreme Court, as candidates and parties have argued over how election officials should handle irregularities, such as errors on completed ballots, that are not explicitly addressed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bill would make clear that county election officials are required to notify voters if their mail-in ballots have been rejected for the lack of a signature and give the voter an opportunity to cure the error.

Among other changes, House Bill 1396 would also give election workers up to a week before Election Day to prepare to count mail-in ballots, a process that has been a bottleneck for election results in parts of the state, providing fodder for election deniers.

Rep. Brad Roae (R-Crawford), who is the ranking Republican member of the committee, said he has procedural objections to the bill and questions about how it might financially burden the counties responsible for implementing many of its requirements.

This 98-page bill was called up about 20 hours and nine minutes after it was introduced, and thats just not adequate time to read and understand and get feedback from our county election boards, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Republicans have pushed for a voter ID requirement as a response to unfounded claims of voter fraud for well more than a decade. The GOP-controlled General Assembly and Republican Gov. Tom Corbett enacted a voter ID law in 2012 but the Commonwealth Court found the measure unconstitutional, overturning it two years later.

House and Senate Republicans have unsuccessfully attempted to advance voter ID as a constitutional amendment but the issue hasnt progressed since Democrats took control of the House in 2023.

This year, there are indications Democratic opposition is softening. In March, House Speaker Joanna McClinton (D-Philadelphia) said she was open to discussions about voter ID as long as it doesnt disenfranchise voters.

House Minority Leader Jesse Topper (R-Bedford) said he isnt aware of any deal to encourage Democratic support for the voter ID bill, but he has asked for it to be offered as stand-alone legislation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Every year it gets caught up in a big omnibus thing. Over 70% of Pennsylvania support it. Thats not the case with some of these other measures. Lets give that a chance to stand on its own. That was my request, Topper said.

Under Pennsylvanias existing law, voters must show identification when they vote at a polling place for the first time. Mehaffie said the legislation before the committee Tuesday would expand the list of acceptable documents that voters could show to prove their identities to include school or work IDs, utility bills and tax returns.

We wanted to make sure that we saw that nobody was disenfranchised, Mehaffie said, noting that polls nationally and in Pennsylvania have shown strong support for voter ID requirements. A Franklin & Marshall College poll last year found 73% of Pennsylvania voters support it.

Voters unable to provide an acceptable form of identification would also be able to have another person vouch for their identity by signing an affidavit, though Mehaffie noted falsely signing would carry criminal penalties.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Philip Hensley-Robin, executive director of the democracy watchdog group Common Cause PA, said that while more options for voters to provide ID is better, the bill is flawed because it will only contribute to the complexity of administering elections.

I dont think the legislators who voted for this have really thought through the implementation challenges, Hensley-Robin said.

He added that voter ID would deter voters regardless of the expanded list of acceptable identification. Hensley-Robin cited a study of the 2016 Wisconsin presidential election found 10 percent of nonvoters reported the states voter ID requirement was at least part of the reason they chose not to participate.

According to the Goldman School of Public Policy at the University of California, Berkeley, scholarly research on the effects of voter ID laws has reached mixed and often contradictory conclusions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A Goldman School review of the research concluded that certain groups such as seniors, students, people of color, people with disabilities, and transgender people are affected more by voter ID laws because theyre more likely to have difficulty obtaining acceptable identification. But some studies found voter ID requirements have a negligible effect on voter turnout.

Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta (D-Philadelphia) opposed the legislation, saying that although voter fraud is deeply insidious  because it cuts at the whole core of our democratic process, the type of voter impersonation the Mehaffies bill addresses is exceedingly uncommon.

We do not have enough instances that would even reliably outline this as one of the voter fraud issues that we should be taking up in this moment, Kenyatta said, adding that issues that could be addressed by modernizing the states election administration system are more pressing.

The Pennsylvania Department of State inked a $10.6 million contract to replace the states aging Statewide Uniform Registry of Electors system that officials across the commonwealth use to keep track of voters, their ballots and other election-related services.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The omnibus bill voted out of committee Tuesday would provide for bond issues through the Pennsylvania Economic Development Financing Authority to pay for new software, computer hardware and other equipment to modernize election administration.

The legislation would codify procedures the Department of State has directed or allowed county election officials to use to make voting more accessible and secure, such as the use of ballot dropboxes, logic and accuracy testing for electronic voting machines and risk limiting audits.

It would also require counties to provide early voting, with one polling place open for 11 days before Election Day for every 100,000 registered voters. In the most recent election, some counties allowed voters to apply for, complete and return mail-in ballots at the election office in a form of makeshift early voting.

And the bill would increase the minimum pay for election workers to $175, which Rep. Heather Boyd (D-Delaware) noted would help alleviate a statewide shortage.

This is going to make a huge difference in our ability to get people to take a full day off of work, maybe pay for child care all day long out of their own pocket, Boyd said.
The U.S. Department of Justice has made a nationwide arrest of 205 accused child sexual abuse offenders and rescued 115 children in a coordinated operation.

In the Western District of Washington, seven federal cases moved forward with criminal charges, pleas, and/or sentencing of those who target minors for sexual abuse.

FBI Seattles Violent Crimes Against Children squad and our partners are hard at work, not only during Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, but also throughout the year, said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. We are arresting predators, recovering children, and assisting victims through the support of our victim specialists. Just this fiscal year in the Seattle division, we have arrested 122 subjects and identified or located 59 children.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These are the FBI-led child sex abuse cases prosecuted in the Western District of Washington in April 2025:

Convicted sex offender Mitchell Francis Dufault, 36, was sentenced April 7, 2025, to ten years in prison and lifetime supervised release. Dufault distributed images of child sexual abuse via an internet platform and communicated with young people about sexually explicit conduct. Dufault has a prior conviction for child molestation.

Shante Broady, 37, was arrested April 11, 2025, and charged with sex trafficking through force fraud and coercion and transporting a victim for the purpose of prostitution through coercion and enticement. Broadys alleged sex trafficking involves both adult and juvenile victims.

Adam Ronald Ingram, 41, was indicted April 16, 2025, for production of child pornography, enticement of a minor and possession of child pornography. Ingram, a King County resident, communicated with minors in other states and foreign countries to obtain sexually explicit images. Ingram is scheduled for trial in June 2025 and remains detained at FDC SeaTac.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Michael L. Gershowitz, 45, a historically registered sex offender, pleaded guilty on April 23, 2025, to possession of images of child sexual abuse. Gershowitz came to the attention of law enforcement when internet service providers reported his username to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) for uploading images of child sexual abuse. Gershowitz is scheduled for sentencing on August 4, 2025.

40-year-old Randy Lee Young was arrested April 24, 2025, following and investigation that revealed he had sexually molested a 13-year-old. Young was identified by law enforcement after he communicated with an undercover officer about having sex with minors. Law enforcement arrested Young when he arrived at a location where he thought the minors would be present. A review of his phone revealed his efforts to entice a 13-year-old for sexual activity. Young filmed the sexual molestation and is now charged with production of child pornography and attempted enticement of a minor. He remains detained at FDC SeaTac.

A 54-year-old Kent, Washington resident was indicted April 23, 2025, for possession of images of child sexual abuse. Shaughn P. Lambert was on supervision by Washington State Corrections when his corrections officer found images of child sexual abuse on his phone. A search of Lamberts residence revealed a number of electronic devices that contained images of child sexual abuse. Lambert is scheduled for trial on July 7, 2025, and remains detained at FDC SeaTac.

Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us, said FBI Director Kash Patel. Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state, and local partners, were sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The operation follows the Departments observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April.

The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBIs tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.
Parloa, a Germany-based company that specialises in Agentic AI for customer experience, has raised $120m in Series C funding to expand its Agentic AI customer service platform.

Led by Durable Capital Partners, Altimeter Capital and General Catalyst, this round elevated the company's valuation to $1bn.

It involved participation from RPT Capital, EQT Ventures, Senovo and Mosaic Ventures.

Durable Capital Partners managing partner and chief investment officer Henry Ellenbogen said: We are proud to lead this Series C funding round and partner with Parloa's impressive leadership team.

We chose to invest in Parloa because the company is uniquely positioned to lead this next wave of customer experience innovation and transform this rapidly growing market. We look forward to supporting their mission as they scale to meet global demand.

Founded in 2018, Parloa focuses on a Agentic AI management platform, aiming to transform customer service for enterprises.

Over the past year, following a $66m Series B round, the company launched the AI Agent Management Platform (AMP), described as the first Agentic AI platform tailored for enterprise contact centres.

Parloa said that its technology is used by several major organisations including Fortune 200 companies.

The platform enables the creation and deployment of AI agents capable of engaging in personalised and natural conversations with customers.

These agents are tested extensively before going live, incorporating measures such as simulation, data isolation and content filtering.

Parloa plans to use the latest investment to scale its operations in North America and Europe.

Additionally, Parloa intends to enhance the capabilities of its AMP platform and strengthen its workforce through global talent acquisition.

Parloa CEO and co-founder Malte Kosub said: The way people interact with businesses is changing forever. At Parloa, we have been at the forefront of that change and are helping enterprises transform customer service with AI.

Our customers are building 1:1 relationships between AI agents and their customers with every interaction to deepen loyalty, realise new revenue streams and create highly personalised experiences.

This new funding accelerates our mission to expand the category-defining AI Agent Management Platform for enterprises.

"German agentic AI company Parloa raises $120m in Series C round" was originally created and published by Verdict, a GlobalData owned brand.




May 7OLYMPIA  In a move to support farmers in less densely populated areas, the Washington State Legislature unanimously passed Senate Bill 5165, which aims to provide compensation for damage to commercial crops caused by wild deer and elk in designated frontier one counties.

The bill, now signed into law by Gov. Bob Ferguson, is set to take effect July 27, 2025.

The bill, sponsored by Senators Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake; Shelly Short, R-Addy; Mike Chapman, D-Port Angeles; Perry Dozier, R-Walla Walla, and Keith Wagoner, R-Sedro Woolley, allocates a minimum of 20% of available funds specifically for claims arising from frontier one counties  areas with a population density of 20 people or fewer per square mile. As of 2024, Adams County was considered a frontier one county.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We all appreciate the rich wildlife in our state, but we also must protect our farmers, who face real challenges from these animals," said Warnick. "Deer and elk can cause extensive damage to crops, which affects not just the farmers' livelihoods but also the agricultural economy at large in these frontier areas."

The bill outlines that, to be eligible for compensation, commercial crop owners must have grown or produced agricultural products valued at over $10,000 in the previous year or be in their first year of agricultural production. They must also demonstrate efforts to prevent wildlife damage. Compensation for claims will only be issued if the assessed damage equals or exceeds $1,000, according to guidelines set by the Washington State Fish and Wildlife Commission.

The passage of the bill marks a step in addressing the unique challenges faced by farmers in Washington's rural regions, Warnick said.

The law emphasizes the need for a valid damage prevention cooperative agreement with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. It also sets a requirement for a licensed crop insurance adjuster to assess damages incurred.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The overwhelming bipartisan support for this legislation demonstrates our commitment to safeguarding our farmers," Warnick said. "It passed with 48 to zero votes in the Senate and received 96 votes in favor in the House. This shows a clear consensus on the importance of providing financial support to those who are genuinely affected by wildlife interactions."

As of 2024, the designated frontier one counties include Pend Oreille, Stevens, Ferry, Okanogan, Lincoln, Adams, Columbia, Garfield, Klickitat, Skamania, Jefferson and Wahkiakum.

These counties have been significantly impacted by wildlife damage, especially in terms of agricultural output. According to Warnick, farmers in these areas, including her own district, have expressed challenges with deer and elk damaging crops, thereby incentivizing the need for legislative action.

"We recognize that some farmers may find it difficult to navigate the application process for compensation; we're working to assist them in proving the damage. I hope this bill simplifies that process," she said. "Photos and documentation will play a vital role in ensuring claims are processed efficiently."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Moreover, while SB 5165 focuses on frontier one counties, there is discussion about eventually expanding the benefits to frontier two counties, those with populations ranging from 21 to 50 people per square mile.

As of 2024, Clallam, Grays Harbor, Pacific, Lewis, Chelan, Kittitas, Douglas, Grant, Walla Walla, Whitman and Asotin counties were designated frontier two counties.

Such an extension, as Warnick noted, would depend significantly on future funding availability.

"The vision is to eventually include those frontier two counties, too, ensuring all farmers impacted by wildlife have similar protections," she said. "But for now, we're addressing the urgent needs of our frontier one farmers effectively."
Wake County teachers are being asked to take smaller local raises in order to help avoid raising dental costs for all employees.

The school board approved a budget proposal on Tuesday that asks the Wake County Board of Commissioners for a $40.3 million increase in local funding for the 2025-26 school year. The school board wanted to avoid asking for a $60 million increase, so the budget includes reducing teacher raises, changing school thermostat settings and cutting positions.

The budget was approved in a 6-3 vote. Board members Cheryl Caulfield, Christina Gordon and Wing Ng were the dissenting votes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I can not support or agree to a budget that has this many cuts, Gordon said.

The budget was approved over the objections of school employees, who had urged the school board not to send commissioners a budget with cuts in positions.

A budget is not a wish list, said school board chair Chris Heagarty. Its a detailed plan for how you spend the money you expect to receive and that can be very, very difficult.

With inadequate state funding and limited county funding, we have to be realistic and responsible about how to plan to spend the funds that we expect we will receive.

The Democratic majority on the school board blamed the Republican-controlled state legislature for not providing enough money for public schools to avoid budget cuts. Board members complained about how the state has increased funding for private school vouchers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The General Assembly must and can and should do better as it relates to public education, because public education is a public good that all of us deserve, said school board vice chair Tyler Swanson.

Wake County educators are urging leaders to not make cuts in their budget for the 2026 fiscal year. They made their voices heard Tuesday morning, May 6, 2025, by staging a walk-in at Enloe Magnet High School.

$5 million gap in proposed county funding

The school board is asking commissioners to provide $742.9 million of its $2.3 billion operating budget.

All the school boards budget cutting might not be enough, though.

On Monday, Wake County Manager David Ellis recommended a $35 million increase in school funding  $5.3 million less than the school boards request. Commissioners will vote on their budget in June.

Im really hopeful theyll get to $40 million by their June vote, said school board member Sam Hershey.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Heagarty said fully funding the $40.3 million increase is a reasonable and responsible ask.

We know that property taxes are a burden, Heagarty said. But we also know that we are asking for the minimum amount needed to keep our schools operating and to take care of our students.

Smaller local teacher pay raises

School administrators had identified $60 million in needs this year. In March Superintendent Robert Taylor proposed a budget that included $18.7 million in budget cuts, called strategic repurposing.

Originally, the cuts included reducing maintenance spending by $600,000 and saving $2.5 million by eliminating employer contributions to employee dental insurance. The dental changes would have impacted 16,000 employees by costing them $28 more per month, or $336 annually.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The board asked staff to come up with alternative cuts to restore the maintenance spending and the employer dental contributions. One of the alternative cuts approved by the board is to give teachers a 1.5% increase in the local salary supplement instead of the proposed 3% increase.

Wake uses local dollars to supplement the base salaries for teachers paid for by the state.

Dipping into teacher raises to cover dental costs will help non-teachers, especially the lower-paid staff. But school administrators were unable to answer The News & Observers questions on how much it would impact teachers financially to take smaller raises to avoid raising dental costs.

There is no way that I feel justified in allowing their supplement to be sacrificed to get the resources in the classroom, Caulfield said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Another alternative cut approved by the board is to change school thermostat settings one degree higher and one degree lower. Now schools will range from 69 degrees to 74 degrees  when the HVAC system is functioning normally.

The board also agreed to pull $763,701 from the funds used by groups to rent school facilities.

Those three items will allow Wake to cover the dental and maintenance items and avoid a $1 million reduction to the Restart Schools program, which helps schools that are continually low-performing.

Cuts to positions, supplies

Some reductions were nor dropped though. Items still slated to be cut include:

 Eliminate the building substitute program where a full-time employee is assigned to each school to fill in for absent teachers. The schools will instead contact substitute teachers to see if theyre available.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 Eliminate a secretary position in each high school.

 Reduce the number of high school assistant principals by changing the funding formula.

 Reduce the number of counselors and social workers by changing the funding formula.

 Eliminate vacant school nurse positions.

 Remove 10 digital learning coordinator positions.

 Reduce spending on instructional supplies by $5 per student.

Wake will try to avoid firing any employees by reassigning them to vacant positions.

NCAE lobbies against budget cuts

Wake NCAE, which is the Wake County chapter of the North Carolina Association of Educators, has urged the school board to ask commissioners for a $60 million increase.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Wake NCAE packed budget public hearings to plead with the district to not make budget cuts. The group made a last-ditch appeal on Tuesday, holding walk-ins to several schools in the morning and speaking at the board meeting in the evening.

Wake NCAE President Christina Cole rallies members before the Wake County school boards budget public hearing at Southeast Raleigh Elementary School in Raleigh, N.C., on April 23, 2025.

Show public school staff that you appreciate them this week by voting for a budget that requests what we need, said Christina Cole, president of Wake NCAE, during the public comment portion of the board meeting.

Christine Zaccardi, the librarian at Farmington Woods Elementary in Cary, told the board about overheated classrooms and malfunctioning bathrooms at her school.

Please fight for no cuts for our kids, Zaccardi told the board. We show up every day. We ask the best of them. We bring the best of us, and we need the supplies and the resources to enable to do that each day.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The budget is personal for school employees, according to Cecelia Joyce, the librarian at Dillard Drive Elementary in Raleigh.

We are talking about our colleagues, our children and our families, Joyce said. We are talking about our friends and colleagues losing their jobs.
WALKER, Mich. (WOOD)  Construction on the Fruit Ridge Avenue bridge over I-96 is well underway but the detours are already taking a toll on nearby businesses. Now, the city is stepping in to help.

Nicole DiDonato, a spokesperson for the City of Walker, said someone from the Citgo on Fruit Ridge Avenue, just north of the closed bridge, reached out about the noticeable drop in traffic since the bridge closed earlier this year.

When they dont see their regulars, it really takes a hit on them  not just financially but emotionally, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Nice change: Walker residents look forward to Fruit Ridge Avenue upgrade

Regular customers like Dennis Frasier say its easy to see the impact. He works nearby and usually stops by several times a day.

They do a lot of business here and its really gone to nothing, he said. Its added 20 minutes to the commute each time.

Frasier isnt the only one with these concerns about the go-to gas station.

I mean this was a pretty busy place, said Marc Holman, who said he has been coming for more than a decade. With the road construction going on, you can tell its definitely down for them.

The staff and the regulars are bracing for an additional roadblock. Michigan Department of Transportation said another short-term closure is scheduled from 7 a.m. Friday, May 16 through 7 p.m. Monday, May 19, when crews will replace the Coopersville Marne Railway crossing just north of the Citgo station.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I would assume that would slow the traffic down even more, said Holman.

DiDonato and Walker Mayor Gary Carey put their heads together to come up with a practical and humorous solution to encourage more people to go out of their way to support the Citgo  official tardy slips. The slips are meant to give drivers a pass if they end up a few minutes late to work after making the stop.

A tardy slip for Fruit Ridge detour zone from the Walker Mayor. (Courtesy City of Walker)

MDOT, lawmakers celebrate grant to replace East Beltline bridge

(Its for) folks to tell their manager, we werent lollygagging, we were actually just supporting a local business thats really in need right now, DiDonato said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

DiDonato said the effort is now backed by Citgos corporate office, which is offering five cents off per gallon for loyalty app users through July.

Despite the challenges, city leaders, Citgo employees and customers are optimistic about the project.

The good news is were gonna have a fabulous road, were gonna have great traffic flow and were gonna have a five-lane bridge, said Frasier. I think its gonna be fabulous when its done.

Westbound ramps from I-96 to Fruit Ridge remain open. The Fruit Ridge bridge replacement is expected to be complete by November.

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.
Four years ago, Harvard University moved a long-planned solar geoengineering project from Arizona to Sapmi, the homelands of Sami peoples across what is now Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. The Sami had no idea it was coming.

We did not know about the plans until we got alerted by the [Indigenous Environmental Network] and they were saying, You should be aware of this,' said Sami council member Asa Larsson Blind.

Blind said that its unlikely Harvard deliberately ignored consulting the Sami about the project before moving it to Kiruna, Sweden. More likely, she thinks, they werent aware that they needed to.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But at the same time, you dont need to do much research to know that Kiruna is in Sapmi, and that there is an Indigenous people, Blind said. There is one Indigenous people in Europe, and thats the Sami people, and we are not unknown.

The idea behind solar geoengineering is that it combats global warming by reflecting sun rays back into space with chemical particles sprayed into the atmosphere. Known as the Stratospheric Controlled Perturbation Experiment, or SCoPEx, the Harvard project would have experimented with the dispersal of those chemicals over Sami lands. But this kind of climate manipulation goes against Sami traditional beliefs about caring for nature, the Sami council wrote in an open letter to Harvard that called for an end to the program. Critically, Harvard also failed to inform the Sami people of the project or obtain their consent before starting it, the council pointed out, violating their right to free, prior, and informed consent  rights enshrined in international law. Representatives with Harvards SCoPEx project did not return requests for comment.

The Sami are not alone in experiencing such violations and joining the ranks of Indigenous peoples relying on international law to challenge climate solutions projects, like SCoPEx, in their territories.

For the third year running, Indigenous leaders have called for a permanent moratorium on carbon markets, carbon offsets, and geoengineering technologies at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, or UNPFII. They also demanded an end to all carbon market initiatives within the U.N., like the REDD+, a $5 billion payment scheme that aims to protect forests through private investment in the carbon market. That call, led by the Indigenous Environmental Network, or IEN, and supported by the American Indian Law Alliance, an Indigenous nonprofit, is now bolstered by an IEN report that documents multiple cases where carbon market, carbon offset, and geoengineering projects have violated Indigenous peoples rights, and Indigenous people have challenged them. As carbon markets expand into Indigenous homelands, advocates hope these fights for Indigenous rights, in Sapmi and beyond, offer a roadmap to stop a growing industry from exploiting Indigenous peoples.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Depending on how a carbon offset project works to mitigate climate change in design and scale, it generates a certain number of carbon credits  the currency of the carbon market. This allows polluters to offset their emissions by purchasing these credits  governments, businesses, and organizations pay to sequester or remove carbon with things like geoengineering or forest restoration and conservation. Indigenous peoples land is often targeted for these efforts, given that they manage or have tenure rights over about 40 percent of the worlds ecologically intact terrestrial landscapes. Because these healthy ecosystems are prime locations for such work, Indigenous peoples living there can quickly become entangled with or impacted by a developing carbon market  often without their knowledge or consent.

The IEN report details nine cases of lawsuits, formal complaints, and public advocacy where Indigenous peoples, like the Sami, have invoked the U.N. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, known as UNDRIP, to confront and resist initiatives that threaten their lands and well-being.

I do believe its positive that UNDRIP is being used, Blind said. Everytime it is cited and it gets recognition, that builds legitimacy. And when we use it boldly and with confidence and we do that together, that builds legitimacy.

Passed in 2007 by the U.N., UNDRIP contains 46 articles that set the standard for the recognition, protection, and promotion of Indigenous peoples rights. The IEN study reveals that more than a third of them have been violated by climate solutions projects. Repeated infringements include a lack of transparency from companies, states, and organizations about the scale of their work, intentionally sowing division within Indigenous communities, increased violence and surveillance of Indigenous peoples, and violations to free, prior, and informed consent.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For some Indigenous communities, carbon markets present an opportunity to grow their economies and exercise their rights to self determination. And its a lucrative industry: The voluntary carbon market saw $16.3 billion in funding by the end of 2024.

Francesca Hillery, a member of the Round Valley Indian Tribe in California, is partnerships director at the Indigenous Greenhouse Gas Removal Commission, or IGGRC, a collective of Indigenous nations in the U.S. working to mitigate climate change through the carbon market.

Hillery said carbon offset projects based in forest or ecosystem restoration often align with Indigenous values and benefit Indigenous communities. But the main benefit to tribes is the financial potential. Tribes in the U.S. need resources to run their governments, Hillery said, and carbon markets may present opportunities for economic growth. In 2015, Californias first forest carbon offset project on Indigenous land was developed on the Round Valley tribes land.

I do understand that theres this whole critique against the commodification of nature, Hillery said. I just think that tribes are looking for solutions for a bunch of different phenomena.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But for other Indigenous communities, the expansion of carbon markets raises concerns, especially as some projects have already resulted in Indigenous peoples being evicted from their lands or promised financial compensation that doesnt materialize. In Peru, for example, the Cordillera Azul National Park was created without the consent of the Kichwa people and other Indigenous communities whose territories it overlaps. Then, the Peruvian government and CIMA, the nonprofit set up to run the park, sold more than 28 million carbon credits for the project. According to IEN, the Peruvian government and CIMA refused to recognize Kichwa land claims while simultaneously profiting from carbon credit sales in the park. In an analysis of reports that detail carbon market impacts, the news outlet Carbon Brief found that more than 70 percent of the reports documented evidence of carbon offset projects harming Indigenous people as well as local communities.

All of the court cases outlined in the IEN report are of Indigenous people using UNDRIP to fight against carbon markets. But Joanna Cabello, a senior researcher with SOMO, a Netherlands-based organization that investigates multinational corporations and their impacts on people and environments, said rulings in support of Indigenous land rights are still a boon to communities who might welcome carbon projects. The same logic that upholds Indigenous land rights also affords them the right to choose what they want to do with that land, including joining the carbon market.

The recognition of [Indigenous] rights is always a strong starting point for any type of [carbon market] project, as that would mean that they have the right to say no to the proposal as well as to hold the companies or organizations behind a project accountable, Cabello said.

Cabello has studied carbon offset projects for over 20 years and said that while these markets infringing on Indigenous rights is not news, more courts are ruling in favor of Indigenous communities, which isnt usually the case.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2020, the Kichwa sued the Peruvian government, contesting its refusal to recognize Indigenous territorial rights, the creation of the conservation project on their territory without consent, and the systematic exclusion from making decisions about or receiving financial benefits from carbon credit sales. In 2023 and 2024, the court agreed with the Kichwa, becoming the first judicial rulings in Peru to recognize and uphold Indigenous territorial rights.

Hopefully, the more and more that communities are able to reach these verdicts, the more that also governments  even if its not at the national level, but municipal level or regional level  can start checking who is really benefiting from doing these projects in their territories, Cabello said. Hopefully some will side more with Indigenous peoples rights.

Though its just one tool, Cabello said using UNDRIP like this shows Indigenous communities that denouncing abuse can be met with meaningful recognition  and tells industries that people are watching their work.

Similarly, the letter that the Sami council issued to Harvard demanding an end to SCoPEx clarified the risks and violations associated with such a project. Not only is it required to obtain consent for activities on their lands, Indigenous people have the right, the Sami council reminded the university, to maintain and strengthen their spiritual relationship to their traditional lands, uphold their responsibilities to future generations, and make decisions about the territories and resources under their stewardship, including air.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After continued opposition, Harvards solar geoengineering project was terminated in March 2024.

Thats something, because we dont have many other examples of a huge institution like Harvard backing down after critique from Indigenous peoples, Blind said, noting that this issue was successfully addressed outside the court of law.

It is significant to see that it is actually an option to halt something when you realize that it wasnt done right.

This story was originally published by Grist with the headline Want climate solutions in Indigenous territories? Better get consent. on May 7, 2025.
Donald Trump is throwing the weight of the Justice Department behind efforts to free former Mesa County clerk Tina Peters. Shes an election denier who was sent to state prison for tampering with voting machines. Colorado Secy. of State Jena Griswold and Democracy Docket founder Marc Elias join The Weeknight to discuss.
Former and current employees at an agency meant to keep elderly people and people with disabilities in their communities fear that Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the Trump administration are weakening the organization.

In March, the Department of Health and Human Services announced that the Administration for Community Living will be integrated into other HHS agencies, including the Administration for Children and Families, the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, also known as CMS.

Over time, bureaucracies like HHS become wasteful and inefficient even when most of their staff are dedicated and competent civil servants, Kennedy said in a statement in March. This came the same day that Kennedy announced a dramatic reduction in the HHS workforce of 10,000 employees.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kennedy later walked back the announcement and said that HHS would need to rehire as many as 20 percent of people fired as a result of the cuts.

HHS director Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (Getty)

But former employees fear this will hurt people with disabilities.

It looks like it's being broken up for spare parts, Daniel Davis, a career employee at ACL, told The Independent. Davis said that none of the career managers at the ACL spoke with the Department of Government Efficiency, Elon Musks organization tasked with slashing government spending and that the political appointee working in the administration said she did not know any more than what had been said in the press release.

In 2012, the Department of Health and Human Services under the Obama administration brought Administration on Aging, the Office on Disability and the Administration on Developmental Disabilities together under Administration for Community Living.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last month, The Washington Post reported on a leaked budget document called a passback that states what the Trump administration would request to fund various organizations within the department. The passback document showed that the ACL was zeroed out, which is to say eliminated.

You have to actually go to those pages to see what they are proposing to eliminate, Alison Barkoff, who ran the ACL during the Biden administration, told The Independent. We do not have any transparency at all, and there have been many, many oversight letters.

Barkoff cautioned that cutting ACL comes at a time when more than 10,000 people turn 65 every day, according to the AARP, and one quarter of Americans have a disability.

Cuts to ACL programs are just going to mean increases to other programs like Medicare, like Medicaid, and this is the one agency that helps people stay in their own homes and communities, instead of more expensive institutional care, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The passback document appears to show that HHS would want to eliminate programs such as the falls prevention program, which seeks to reduce the numbers of falls by elderly people, and the long-term care ombudsman program, which works to resolve problems related to residents of long-term care facilities.

In addition, the passback suggests eliminating money for protection and advocacy (P&A) programs for people with developmental disabilities and for state councils for people with developmental disabilities.

Of the big disability programs that ACL administers, the only ones that would not be wiped out if the budget looks like it takes the recommendations from the passback would be Independent Living Programs, one official within the organization who was granted anonymity to speak candidly told The Independent.

The staffer said that they were brought back in the rehiring. But ACL has slowed down significantly and in addition, the administration needs to justify every single payment and how it aligns with the Trump administrations priorities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The ACL is just one of many organizations that has been slashed significantly by DOGE and the Trump administration. In addition, the Trump administration has sought to eliminate or weaken the Department of Education, the US Administration for International Development and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

The Independent has reached out to the Department of Health and Human Services.

At the same time, on Monday, the department released a statement announced the release of $1.1 billion in funding new grant opportuntities for older people, people with disabilities and caregivers.

We stand with our elders and individuals with disabilities  we dont abandon them, Kennedy said in the press release. This funding directly invests in dignity, protects independence, and affirms every Americans right to age with respect and community. Restoring humanity to our health system is not optional  its the foundation of how we Make America Healthy Again.
The UK government is considering restricting student visa applications from countries such as Pakistan, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka, where nationals are reportedly more likely to claim asylum after arrival, according to official sources, Azernews reports, citing Tribune.

The proposal is part of a broader plan to reduce net migration, which reached 728,000 in the year ending June 2024.

A new Immigration White Paper, expected next week, will outline strategies to overhaul the immigration system and address public concerns following Labours poor performance in recent local elections.

According to UK government data, 16,000 of the 108,000 asylum seekers last year initially entered the country on student visas.

While nationality-specific figures for these claimants are not released, officials cited Pakistan, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka as top countries of origin among visa switchers.

The Home Office said the upcoming plan would restore order to a broken immigration system. Labour MP Jo White, representing Red Wall constituencies, urged the government to take stronger action to curb migration, reflecting voter frustration.

Immigration remains a contentious political issue in Britain and was a core concern during the 2016 Brexit referendum.
TOPEKA (KSNT)  Washburn Tech students are changing a mans life through the National Auto Body Council Recycled Rides program.

Washburn Tech unveiled a refurbished 2020 Mazda to a fortunate driver.

Recycled Rides partners auto students with professionals to refurbish vehicles and then the vehicles are given to individuals or families in need.

27 News spoke to the 2020 Mazda recipient, Chris Harstad, about the emotions he felt.

Its a very great blessing. I dont know if I want to cry or just to love, Harstad told 27 News. Its here and I know its going to change my sons future, to change our future. Over the last two years, Ive taken some rides just to get to appointments, and its made it impossible to afford.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Possible DEI changes to Topeka ordinances are on hold

27 News also asked Harstad, Whats the first thing you are going to do with your new car?

I took off work today, were going to grab our fishing poles, go out to Lake Shawnee, grill some burgers and go fishing, Harstad told us.

Recipients are chosen by a selection committee composed of Washburn Tech students. This is the 35th vehicle to be gifted since the program launched in 2011.

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.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
WASHINGTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL)  The Washington County Department of Education released its summer feeding schedule for students.

Any child under age 18 can participate in the feeding program, according to the district.

Bulk feeding locations include Boones Creek Elementary and West View Elementary. Jonesborough Elementary will host curbside meal pickups, where kids can eat the provided food on-site.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When students run: Schools seek elopement strategies

The program is active throughout June and July. No registration or paperwork is required, according to the district.

District leaders provided the following informational flyers that outline when and where families can find bulk food pick-ups as well as curbside meals:

Peachjar-Flyer-Summer-Feeding-May-2025-1Download

More information on the summer feeding programs can be found on Washington County Schools Nutritions social media.

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.
CLIVE, Iowa  Friday wasnt what youd call a typical workday for an officer with the Clive Police Department. A duckling was found stuck inside a storm drain, and Officer Gage Hawk climbed down the drain to save it. Officer Hawk was able to rescue the duckling and reunite it with its mother and siblings. You can watch the rescue captured on dashcam and bodycam in the video player above.

Experience the dark side of the bloom when corpse flower named Stink Floyd blooms at Reiman Gardens

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 who13.com.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WMBD)  Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is expected to speak in front of the Governors Mansion in Springfield this morning, a move that could draw several protestors.

Her press conference is to highlight how sanctuary policies in Illinois have unleashed violence on American citizens  including rape, sexual assault, murder, shoplifting, and more  while shielding illegal aliens responsible from facing consequence, according to the departments official YouTube channel which will air the event.

I am calling upon Governor Pritzker, and other leaders in the state of Illinois, to abandon these dangerous sanctuary policies, Noem said in a news release. We need to return to law and order and put the safety of Americans first.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Noem said she planned to draw attention to those breaking the law.

Im going to fight for the victims every single day and draw attention to them as long as we can, she said. And President Trump will continue to do that as well. We should be united as a country around bringing violent criminals to justice and getting them out of the United States of America.

Speaking at the press conference was the father of Lance Cpl. Jimmy Walden III, a Peoria Heights man who was killed in 2017 in a motorcycle crash in Maryland. He and other angel families  people who say their loved ones death was due to an illegal immigrant.

The protest group 50501 which sprung up after the November election has posted on social media for a pop-up protest to welcome Kristi Noem to Illinois!

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

WMBD carried this live and update the story later in the 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 CIProud.com.
FBI Director Kash Patel will face questioning Wednesday afternoon by a House Appropriations Committee panel on oversight and the fiscal 2026 budget for the intelligence agency, just over 100 days since President Trump returned to the White House.

His testimony comes as the FBI has faced scrutiny over layoffs amid the administrations overhaul of the federal workforce and after Patel was removed as the leader of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

The hearing is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. EDT.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Watch the live video 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 The Hill.
MOUNTAIN CITY, Tenn. (WJHL)  The Mountain City Board of Mayor and Aldermen discussed a potential Bitcoin mine in the town Tuesday night. The full public comment section of that meeting can be viewed above.

CleanSpark, a Bitcoin mining company based out of Nevada, is hoping to open a 30-megawatt facility in Mountain City on a 50-acre piece of land near Johnson County Community Hospital.

Bitcoin miner eyeing Mountain City for new location

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A CleanSpark executive told News Channel 11 in late April that site and grading plans are being finalized for approval. Those will be sent to the towns planning office and commission.

Mountain Electric Cooperative CEO Rodney Metcalf has said the mines power consumption would cover the loss of the Parkdale Mills plant, which closed due to Hurricane Helene damage, and would keep rates down for customers.

However, some Mountain City residents are of a different mindset and think the mine would adversely affect the quality of life in the town.

Disapproving citizens planning to attend Mountain City BMA meeting over Bitcoin mine

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Monday night, a group of citizens met and planned to attend the BMA meeting and make their opinions heard. Opponents of the Bitcoin mine believe it will cause tourism and property value challenges due to the noise created by the facility.

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.
As Pakistan reels from the most extensive airstrikes on its territory from India during official peacetime between the two countries, and amid ongoing gunfire exchanges across the Kashmir border, observers worry about further escalation between the nuclear-armed neighbors.

But beyond bullets and missiles, theres another weapon that India has threatened to use in the conflict that Pakistan has said would surely constitute an Act of War: water.

Among the targets of Indias early Wednesday strikes was Pakistans Neelum-Jhelum hydropower project, according to Pakistans armed forces. The strikes came just hours after Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India would stop water from flowing out across its borders.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Now, Indias water will flow for Indias benefit, it will be conserved for Indias benefit, and it will be used for Indias progress, Modi said Tuesday.

India suspended its agreement to a 65-year-old treaty that governed water-sharing between the two countries late last month after sustained cross border terrorism by Pakistanreferring to an April 22 attack on tourists in Indian-controlled Kashmir by a Pakistani militant group that Pakistan has said it was not involved with.

Pakistan, in response, warned that any attempt to stop the flow of water from India, which is located upstream, will be considered as an Act of War and responded with full force across the complete spectrum of National Power.

The Indus Waters Treaty was brokered by the World Bank in 1960 after India and Pakistans independence from British rule and partition in 1947. The treaty divided access to the six rivers in the Indus basin, giving India control over the eastern rivers of Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej; while stipulating that Pakistan maintains access to the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers to the west. The agreement became foundational to peace in the region, given the dependence of both countries on the Indus basin water system for irrigating their agricultural lands.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Indian commentary has claimed that the treaty was very generous to Pakistan, which while located downstream was essentially given access to 80% of the systems water. The treaty states that India cannot build infrastructure that restricts or redirects the flow of water from the western riversother than for limited agricultural use and generation of hydro-electric power. Until its unilateral withdrawal in April, India has generally honored the treaty even through wars with Pakistan.

The suspension of the agreement poses a significant risk to Pakistans economy, of which agriculture accounts for almost a quarter. The majority of Pakistans irrigation, hydropower generation, electricity production, and overall development are heavily reliant on the Indus basin, Himanshu Thakkar, a regional water resources expert, told Kerala-based newspaper Mathrubhumi.

But its unclear to what extent India has the capacity to block the flow of water to Pakistan. Experts have suggested that India currently lacks the dam infrastructure to completely control water flow from the rivers. Still, on May 4, India lowered sluice gates at the Baglihar dam, effectively reducing the downstream flow to Pakistan through the Chenab River by up to 90%, according to the Hindustan Times. And similar operations are reportedly planned for the Kishanganga project on the Jhelum River.

Hassan F. Khan, an assistant professor in urban and environmental policy and planning at Tufts University, wrote in Pakistani newspaper Dawn that while India cannot simply stop water flow into Pakistan, its reneging on the treaty would be felt more during the dry season spanning December to May: A more pressing concern is what happens in the dry season when the flows across the basin are lower, storage matters more, and timing becomes more critical.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Another way India can use water as a weapon is by withholding flood data. Pradeep Kumar Saxena, Indias former Indus Water Commissioner, told the Press Trust of India news agency in April that the country can stop sharing data with Pakistan after the pacts suspension, which could be detrimental during monsoon season.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Editor's note: The article has been updated to reflect the latest number of drones shot down. An earlier version said that the mayor had reported three were shot down.

Russian air defense forces allegedly intercepted several Ukrainian drones headed toward Moscow, the city's Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said on May 7, becoming the latest in a wave of drone incursions targeting the Russian capital ahead of Victory Day celebrations.

"Air defense forces of the Defense Ministry repelled another drone attack on Moscow," Sobyanin wrote on Telegram, noting that debris fell in multiple areas where emergency crews are now working. He later confirmed that at least seven drones were shot down over the course of the evening.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Kyiv Independent couldn't independently verify these claims.

Earlier today, Ukrainian drones targeted the Bazalt plant in Krasnoarmeysk, Moscow Oblast, Russias primary manufacturer of munitions and weaponry for all branches of its military. Simultaneously, another strike hit the Splav plant in Tula, a city located about 180 kilometers (110 miles) south of Moscow.

The strikes, according to Ukraines Security Service (SBU), triggered heightened alert measures across Moscow Oblast, forcing Russian authorities to enact Plan Cover, a security protocol that includes grounding civilian air traffic.

Airports across Moscow and the surrounding oblast temporarily shut down, stranding thousands of passengers and forcing airlines to cancel or reroute hundreds of flights on May 7.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This latest wave of drones prompted renewed temporary airport closures across the region. Russias Federal Air Transport Agency announced that flight operations were suspended from 7:15 p.m. local time at Domodedovo Airport, the biggest one in Moscow, as well as at Zhukovsky, and Kaluga airports, whose operations were suspended earlier.

The attacks come amid tight security in the run-up to the May 9 Victory Day parade, a key Kremlin propaganda event. The Kremlin uses the parade to showcase its military power and invoke Soviet World War II victories to justify its aggression against Ukraine.

Read also: Moscow releases guest list for Victory Day parade

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Nineteen police officers and 12 soldiers have been killed by armed groups in Colombia since April 15, in what President Gustavo Petro has called a plan pistola  a tactic popularized by notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar that seeks to terrorize law enforcement.

According to police, armed groups are putting cash bounties on officers heads, a strategy Escobar used in the 1990s during peak cartel violence. Security experts say the killings are a backlash by groups like the Gaitanist Army of Colombia and the National Liberation Army, which have suffered losses in recent government offensives.

In the face of the threats, the National Police reaffirmed its commitment to security, with its director, General Carlos Fernando Triana Beltran, telling the Miami Herald that this institution is compelled by the memory of our murdered comrades to continue confronting any expression of crime.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In total, at least 21 police officers were murdered in Colombia in the first four months of the year, four times the number killed in the same period last year, according to Colombian media.

Organized crime has dusted off an old, perverse and desperate practice of the sort Pablo Escobar used to try to prevent the fall of his cocaine empire: putting a price on the lives of the countrys police officers, Triana wrote in a newspaper column on Sunday.

Bullet hole in government office in Quibdo, Colombia. Credit: Alfie Pannell

The assassinations are the latest escalation in what many analysts describe as a deteriorating security situation in Colombia, which has seen intensified conflict in several regions this year.

In February, Petro appointed Pedro Sanchez as defense minister  the first military official to hold the role in over three decades  signaling a shift away from the presidents total peace plan that sought to negotiate a settlement with Colombias armed groups.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Since the appointment of the new Defense Minister, there has been a very notable and clear increase in offensive operations against [armed] groups, said Elizabeth Dickinson, senior Colombia analyst at the Brussels-based Crisis Group.

The current plan pistola is seen as a backlash against this security campaign, which has killed multiple leaders of armed groups.

General Carlos Fernando Triana Beltran, Director of Colombian National Police. Credit: Colombian National Police

Authorities allege the Gaitanist Army launched the plan after security forces killed one of its top commanders, Jose Miguel Demoya Hernandez, alias Chirimoya, on April 5.

What we are seeing is the government is gaining ground and these organizations feel threatened, said Sergio Guzman, director of Colombia Risk Analysis, a security consultancy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In an X post on Tuesday, Petro specifically blamed the Gaitanist Army, which has its roots in the demobilized paramilitary United Self-Defense Forces of Colombia, active in the 1990s and 2000s.

In response to the downfall of several of its leaders, [the group] has decided to kill the children of the people, the president wrote.

Sanchez, the defense minister, said the killings were carried out by sicarios, or paid hitmen, with police reporting that the Gaitanist Army, Colombias largest criminal organization, is offering up to $3 million Colombian pesos  about $700  per officer killed.

A lawyer for the group declined to comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Gaitanist Armys reported bounties mimic Escobars strategy in the 1990s, when he offered rewards for killing police officers as part of a terror campaign against the government. From 1990-93, at least 153 police officers were killed in the drug lords home city of Medellin, according to Colombias National Center for Historical Memory.

It remains unclear which group initiated the plan pistola, with no organization publicly claiming credit for the killings.

While both police and soldiers have been targeted, the police are a softer target, Dickinson said. They tend to be less heavily armed or protected, and usually operate in civilian spaces.

This has been sort of the easy target for armed groups to send a message to the government without the same risks that they face if they were to try the same thing against soldiers, the analyst said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Five of the 15 officers murdered during the two weeks in April were off duty, Petro said.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro.

Triana, the national police director, was defiant in the face of the attacks, telling the Herald that police have arrested 217 Gaitanist Army members since the plan pistola began.

We continue to strengthen the operational security of our police force, adjusting routines, duties, and casework, especially in high complexity zones, Triana said.

The police have also begun taking exceptional measures, allowing officers to take their service weapons home and, in some rural regions, confining them to their stations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Soldiers are on maximum alert in several departments, where the army ordered them to remain in their barracks.

Meanwhile, Petro maintained that the state will not back down from its offensive against armed groups.

Said the president on X: We will not retreat.
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  Property owners in Wayne County, Indiana will need to have their spring taxes submitted by Monday.

The Wayne County Treasurers Office is reminding its residents the spring tax installment is due on May 12.

If you would like to pay in-person, visit the treasurers office on floor 2 of the Wayne County Annex Building in Richmond, Indiana. The office is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday and 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from Tuesday through Thursday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For additional methods to pay your taxes, click here.

Residents with questions can call the office at 1-765-973-9238.

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.
HKFoods has suggested a beef shortage in its home market of Finland is likely to continue, while a recent strike that affected its plants will bring added costs.

The warnings emerged as the meat business, previously trading as HKScan, reported results for the first quarter of 2025 this morning (7 May).

Beef and pork are one of the largest revenue earners for the listed business, contributing 29% to the companys 2024 sales of 1bn ($1.1bn). Only sausages, bacon and charcuterie brought in more, with 31% of the group total.

CEO Juha Ruohola said today (7 May) a shortage of minced beef in Finland during the reported quarter became a public issue, linked to a significant reduction in cattle numbers in the country.

Forecasts indicate that a similar trend will continue in the future, which means that there will continue to be a shortage of beef, Ruohola added.

It is important for HKFoods to maintain self-sufficiency in domestic meat. This is also of importance for national security of supply.

HKFoods still managed to generate a 2.2% increase in first-quarter sales to 233.7m but Ruohola indicated consumers are eating less meat.

In 2024, poultry accounted for 23% of the companys sales and meat-based meals 17%.

Consumer demand in Finland weakened from the comparison period and shifted especially to lower-priced products. Demand for meat products in particular declined, which weakened the sales of HKFoods own brands, Ruohola said today.

HKFoods has already announced plans to consolidate production as it seeks to realise annual costs savings of around 1m, which will start to be felt from the second quarter but not fully incorporated until the 2026 fiscal year.

In March, the HK and Kariniemen meat brands owner said it planned to close a beef and pork slaughterhouse in the town of Paimio as cattle numbers decline. That plan has now come to fruition, the company said today.

More recently in April, HKFoods said it was assessing the future of its bacon processing facility in Swinoujscie, Poland, a site expected to generate around 70m in sales for the group business this year.

HKFoods, which counts retail as its largest sales channel with 63% of revenues in 2024, also reported first-quarter EBITDA today from its continuing operations of 12.1m, up 36%.

Elsewhere, EBIT rose to 4.6m from 1.2m in the corresponding period, while the associated profit margin climbed to 2% from 0.5%.

The net result was a profit of 0.8m, compared to a 3.8m loss a year earlier.

Meanwhile, HKFoods has yet to feel the full impact of workers strikes, which affected a number of Finnish meat businesses in April.
Hard times create strong men. Strong men create good times. Good times create weak men. And weak men create hard times.

This pithy aphorism has captured a popular view of history for as long as weve had the concept of history. The ancient Greek historian Herodotus himself wrote, soft lands breed soft men; wondrous fruits of the earth and valiant warriors do not grow from the same soil.

Modern right-wing populists are enamored with this idea. Theyll bemoan the state of the world, seizing on cultural flashpoints to point out that we live in extraordinarily hard times caused by the weakness of our leaders and our cultural elites.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But in reality, theyve got it backward. Weve been living in the good times. And they are weak men leading us back into the hard times.

The gender war origins of MAGA trolling.

If you exist on the political internet, you cant avoid running into deranged right-wing voices. Im not referring to your average Trump voter, who probably wanted a combination of lower grocery prices, law and order, and some sort of generalized social conservatism. Im referring to the vicious trolls that have come to dominate online platforms. Theyre everywhere since Trumps first run for the White Houseespecially since Elon Musk purchased Twitterand theyve spread a particularly poisonous style of engagement. Theyre intensely tribal and extremist. Theyre determined to teach liberals a lesson. They delight in cruelty for crueltys sake. They respond to every post with slurs and vitriol. Its a sickening new feature of our political discourse, but it may not be immediately obvious why anyone should care what online trolls have to say.

In a better world, nobody would care. But these trolls have real influence. Some of the most important theorists on the postliberal right are semi-anonymous writers with pseudonyms like Bronze Age Pervert and Mencius Moldbug. It would be hilarious that the most popular and archetypal personality on the online right is named Catturdif he didnt have an audience of 3.6 million followers just on X. Posters like Captive Dreamer (a man with an avatar of the Branch Davidian leader David Koresh and a screenname derived from a French Nazi collaborator) arent just harmless sh-tposters: Captive Dreamer is followed by Vice President J.D. Vance and was partly responsible for kicking off the Haitians eating cats hoax last year.

These posters matter. And if you want to understand the psychology behind this kind of troll, one of the best places to start is with a video known as Gen Z Boss and a mini.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The video, which went viral in 2024, features young women working for an Australian skincare start-up doing a TikTok dance in their office. There were three main reactions to the video. Some people thought, Thats fun and cute, and then kept scrolling. Some people thought, That seems obnoxious and it makes me cringe, and then kept scrolling. And some people became so incandescently angry at the video that they decided to burn down the modern economy.

The video (along with its spiritual predecessor, project managers working by the pool) inspired reactions such as fire them all, women should go back to the kitchen, and bring back the gender pay gap. Some commenters compared it to Maoism and cancer, others called it demonic. The clip inspired more deranged rants than you could count, and was generally hated to an absurd degree by the angriest right-wing voices on the internet. If you think incandescent rage is a strange reaction to that video, congratulations on being a normal person.

But the reaction raises an important question: Who does obsess over this stuff? Who actually talks this way? Who goes out of their way to spend hours each day posting slurs on the internet? Who obsesses over harmless cultural artifacts like a silly TikTok dance?

The guy who does this (and its almost always a guy) is not someone who is succeeding in his own life. Hes not someone with considerable accomplishments, someone active in making their local community a better place, or someone with a loving family and a rich social life. The people who do this, to state things plainly, are almost always losers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It may seem like a stretch to link the rise of extremist MAGA trolls to the gender politics of a TikTok dance. But the two are spiritually linked. MAGA is a movement that valorizes strength and toughness precisely because so many of its most fervent adherents are such weak men.

The gender war roots of MAGA itself.

This link between gender and MAGA dates back to 2014s Gamergate controversy, a misogynistic, right-wing backlash against perceived feminism in the video game industry. Steve Bannon was one of the first people to realize that angry young men online could be harnessed as a real political force, saying, per a 2017 book: You can activate that army. They come in through Gamergate or whatever and then get turned onto politics and Trump.

But lets get more specific. Consider the type of guy who logs on to social media specifically to tell women with white-collar jobs that Your happy life alone only exists because the state funnels taxpayer money into your independence LARP. What on earth does the state have to do with women being independent? To quote Clare Haber-Harris, a popular culture writer:

A lot of men have a perplexingly reverse-SJW attitude toward women in the workplace. They believe women are part of an oppressor class, who have for some reason been granted unfair degrees of privilege in the form of being hired for fun, pretend jobs. In their mind, almost every working woman has an email job, specifically one that wasnt available to men, and provides no value. Something like Vice President of Pronouns. They believe if AI replaced these unnecessary jobs, women would be rightfully forced to settle for schlubs to avoid being destitute.

You dont have to speculate that this is how trolls see the world. Theyll tell you themselves. As one prominent MAGA influencer commented on the Gen Z Boss and a Mini video: Tariffs or this? Tariffs. And as another troll said: Its going to be hilarious when AI destroys all the cozy email jobs that women work in and come begging men who work in trades for a relationship because they cant pay their bills.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The appeal of Trumpism is that it harkens back to the masculinity of a previous era. Forget the bullst jobs held by armies of liberals. What Americas economy really needs is blue-collar men doing masculine labor in places like steel factories, manufacturing plants, and coal mines. If tariffs help accomplish that, we should do tariffs. Its incel thought as economic ideology.

You see the same dynamic in those cheering on Trumps immigration plans. One of Xs most prominent anti-immigration accounts is Josiah Lippincott, who spends his time online telling Americans theyre not American and spouting racist nonsense at anyone whose ancestors werent on the Mayflower. Whats the source of his animus? He admittedly doesnt know how to code but believes that Big Tech companies have discriminated against him for being a white male, and that immigrants have stolen jobs that should rightfully be his. This is how men talk when theyre impotent, bitter, and filled with disaffected rage. Nobody successful spends hours each day disparaging women theyve never met. Nobody whos made it in life logs on to judge the ethnic background of other online personalities.

(The exception you could easily note is that there are plenty of successful influencers who do these thingsbut theyre simply catering to already radicalized mobs, feeding culture war chum to weak men whove developed an appetite for it.)

These accounts and their bitter worldview have come to dominate the MAGA movement. Theyre the id of Trumpism, the core principle which cant be violated. After all, whos the one prominent MAGA personality to have been jettisoned from the Trump administration before it began? Vivek Ramaswamy. And what precisely was the final straw that led to Ramaswamys defenestration from DOGE? He said that Americans need to work harder and change their culture if they want to outcompete immigrants. The replies from Trumps online army were furious, accusing him of favoring foreign workers over real Americans. Ramaswamy vanished from public discourse for several weeks, and was out as co-leader of DOGE less than a month later.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trumps superfans will defend almost anythingrank incompetence, kooky pseudoscience, sexual assault allegationsbut it turns out the one crime that causes instant excommunication is telling MAGA adherents that theyre mediocre compared to immigrants and need to buckle up and work harder.

The hypocrisy of RETVRN.

Theres an entire industry of statue avatar accounts who post endlessly about how depraved and weak modern culture is and how society should RETVRN to its roots (spelled in a faux-Roman style to emphasize how trad and based the poster is). Theyll often discuss how much better life was for Americans in the post-World War II era, when a man could work a blue-collar job and provide for his entire family. Why cant we go back to that?

That narrative that America is worse off now than we were in generations past is, of course, nonsense. America is a vastly richer country than we were in the 1960s. We have more wealth and larger homes; we drive cars that are simultaneously faster, bigger, and safer; we live longer lives; we experience less violence; we breathe cleaner air and drink cleaner water; and we have better technology across every dimension of our daily lives. Median income has dramatically increased. Median income specifically for blue-collar workers has increased. But the relative position of many men has decreased as women have joined the workforce and America has accepted more immigrants.

Life is better across the board, but it got better for other groups faster than it did for white, working-class men. The world shifted as America moved from a manufacturing-based economy to a service-based economy, and many men couldnt keep up. The plain truth is that for most of the 20th century, it was far better to be born stupid in a rich country than to be born smart in a poor country. But the world has changed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This change wasnt a problem for men writ large, the majority of whom handled the evolution in a normal waygoing further in education, adjusting their career focus, adapting to new social norms, and generally succeeding. But while plenty of American men navigated this change successfully, many didnt. Now theres an entire male cohort who feel cheated that women or immigrants have gained status compared to them. Theyre the losers, the depressed, the lumpenproletariat unable to adapt to a changing world. But they cant outright say what they mean, so they go online to rant about foreigners and feminized workplaces.

This movements supposed intellectuals and leaders are fairly open in acknowledging they want to make the rest of us poorer in order to advantage these weak men. Oren Cass, one of the leading voices on MAGA tariff policy, explicitly said so in an interview with the New York Times: I think that is a trade-off we should be willing to make. Last week, Trump said your daughter should have three dolls instead of 30, and that those dolls should cost more. Tucker Carlson admits that people will be poorer on paper but says well be better off because we can make our own food and have a daily experience with nature. Tucker himself wont be sufferinghe went to prestigious boarding schools and was raised as the son of an heiress. He lives in a mansion surrounded by the best conveniences money can buy. But hell happily tell his audience of losers that money is just a number and that theyll be better off working in the toaster factory rather than some fake laptop job.

The shame of this kind of rhetoric is that it wont lead to policies that will achieve its stated aims. Donald Trump isnt going to revive American manufacturing. His tariffs are going to decimate manufacturing in this countryhalf of all imports are inputs for goods used by domestic manufacturing, and those goods are now going to skyrocket in price. Were already seeing massive declines in capital spending as manufacturers flee the chaos Trumps created. The truth is that the decline in manufacturing employment has little to do with international trade, and that tariffs are just going to hurt American consumers without doing anything to benefit the people they supposedly help.

Good times and weak men.

Francis Fukuyama wrote in The End of History and The Last Man:

Experience suggests that if men cannot struggle on behalf of a just cause because that just cause was victorious in an earlier generation, then they will struggle against the just cause. They will struggle for the sake of struggle. They will struggle, in other words, out of a certain boredom: for they cannot imagine living in a world without struggle. And if the greater part of the world in which they live is characterized by peaceful and prosperous liberal democracy, then they will struggle against that peace and prosperity, and against democracy.

Americans live in the most powerful and most prosperous country during the most prosperous age in human history, and weak men are furious because of their own inability to maintain the top status in this blessed nation. If good times create weak men, they are the weak menunable to live with success, struggling purely for the sake of struggle. They dont feel loved or appreciated enough by society, so theyre burning it down just to feel some warmth.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Theres a corollary to the good times create weak men saying. Strongmen are empowered by weak men, and its that combination that causes hard times. Its why so many of the prominent MAGA voices are fundamentally sad peoplethe Hitler-quoting maniac Captive Dreamer, for example, is someone who said a few weeks ago he hasnt seen a real-life friend in years and whose own father has publicly denounced him. Catturd is, according to a Rolling Stone profile, a thrice-divorced man in his early 60s who went through bouts of bankruptcy before striking it big as a MAGA influencer.

This is the core of Trumpism. A strongman rose in America and told weak men that they had been cheated. And they believed him.

Read more at The Dispatch

The Dispatch is a new digital media company providing engaged citizens with fact-based reporting and commentary, informed by conservative principles. Sign up for free.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The crash of a Marine Corps helicopter last year that killed five service members was ultimately caused by pilot error, but the use of night vision goggles and unsafe flying conditions also likely were factors, according to an investigation report obtained by The Associated Press.

The CH-53 Super Stallion crashed Feb. 6, 2024, during a late night flight when it hit a mountain near Pine Valley, California, on its way back to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar.

Investigators found that multiple factors likely led to the crash. But as with several previous military aviation accidents, investigators had to make some assumptions because the CH-53 was not equipped with a flight data recorder capable of surviving a crash.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The limits of night vision goggles also have been identified as a potential factor in the fatal collision of an Army Black Hawk helicopter and a passenger jet near Reagan Washington National Airport in January that killed 67 people. The goggles can reduce a pilot's ability to determine distance and can be degraded by weather or light pollution.

The Marine helicopter was flying in icing conditions with low cloud cover that obscured the mountainous terrain along the flight path. The crew was using night vision goggles, which likely did not give them the clear picture needed to avoid a crash into terrain, investigators found.

The precipitation and clouds probably degraded the goggles' performance and possibly gave the crew a false sense that they were maintaining the safe distances needed in the flight, investigators found.

The pilot and crew chief most likely believed they were operating legally and within their comfort level, investigators found.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ultimately, though, investigators found that the pilot's failure to avoid the terrain was the primary cause of the crash. They also found that the commanding officer, who was relieved of duty due to a loss of confidence in an ability to lead, should not have given the crew approval to fly.

The Super Stallion vanished during the overnight flight on its way back to Miramar from Creech Air Force Base. The helicopter was discovered in the morning near the mountain community of Pine Valley.

All five Marines aboard were killed in the crash: Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis, 21, of Olathe, Kansas; Sgt. Alec Langen, 23, of Chandler, Arizona; Capt. Miguel Nava, 28, of Traverse City, Michigan; Capt. Jack Casey, 26, of Dover, New Hampshire; and Capt. Benjamin Moulton, 27, of Emmett, Idaho

In interviews contained in the report, multiple members of the squadron said that the crews had been stretched thin because their unit had to fly additional missions to compensate for last year's monthslong grounding of the V-22 Osprey fleet.
National Weather Service workers are on alert and have been advised to use a buddy system after threats to the agency's radars were made by a violent militia group that believes they are weather weapons.

According to emails from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the threats were allegedly made by Veterans on Patrol, a group that the Southern Poverty Law Center has designated as an anti-government militia organization.

The groups bizarre views on the Doppler radars were highlighted in an internal NOAA email sent to staff on Monday. CNN reporters have confirmed viewing the letter and reported its contents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The NWS was also warned on May 1 of a non-specific threat, but the most recent email contains details about specific potential targets. The NOAA's security office reportedly is aware of "several encounters"  either in-person or virtually  with members of the militia group.

This group is advocating for anyone and everyone to join them in conducting penetration drills on NEXRAD sites to identify weaknesses which can be used to ultimately destroy the sites, the email said.

Doppler radars detect all manner of precipitation and can help meteorologists understand the rotation of thunderstorm clouds, airborne tornado debris, and wind strength and direction, according to the National Science Foundation.

A Doppler radar tower outside a National Weather Service facility in Sullivan, Wisconsin. A militia group called Veterans on Patrol has allegedly made threats against the radars, claiming they are weather weapons, according to the NOAA (The Janesville Gazette)

The radar bounces short pulses of radio waves off of precipitation, which reflect back to the radar, and provide data to meteorologists that they can use to help inform the public about storms and other weather systems.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The militia, however, believes  erroneously  that the radars are weapons.

The group referred to the NEXRAD system towers as weather weapons, and claimed no laws were preventing American citizens from destroying the weapons, the email says.

It's unclear what the group thinks the radars are actually doing. The NEXRAD radars have been in use since the 1990s, and are used not just by the NWS, but also the Federal Aviation Administration and the U.S. Air Force.

To promote safety at NWS sites, NOAA's security office suggested that workers travel in pairs  a buddy system  if they're working at remote sites. They were also advised to remain vigilant during their work.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Do not engage with anyone suspicious; instead, notify local law enforcement, the email said.

The NWS is already dealing with staffing issues due to the Department of Government Efficiency, under Tesla CEO Elon Musk and President Donald Trump, cutting hundreds of its staff.

One NWS employee, who spoke to CNN on condition of anonymity, said the threats of violence were "demoralizing" to the remaining federal workers following the Trump administration's cuts.

Another NWS staffer said threats to facilities were generally rare, but found the latest threats "especially concerning" when taking into account the political divide in the U.S.
NEW YORK (AP)  WeightWatchers said Tuesday it is filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection to eliminate $1.15 billion in debt and focus on its transition into a telehealth services provider.

Parent WW International Inc. said it has the support of nearly three-quarters of its debt holders. It expects to emerge from bankruptcy within 45 days, if not sooner.

WeightWatchers, which was founded more than 60 years ago, has struggled recently. In 2023, the company moved into the prescription drug weight loss business  particularly with the $106 million acquisition of Sequence, now WeightWatchers Clinic, a telehealth service that helps users get prescriptions for drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy and Trulicity.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its latest earnings report Tuesday showed that first-quarter revenue declined 10% while its loss on an adjusted basis totaled 47 cents per share. However, clinical subscription revenue  or weight-loss medications  jumped 57% year over year to $29.5 million.

In September, WW International CEO Sima Sistani resigned, and the New York company named Tara Comonte, a WeightWatchers board member and former Shake Shack executive, interim chief executive.

Comonte, now CEO, said in a statement Tuesday that, "As the conversation around weight shifts toward long-term health, our commitment to delivering the most trusted, science-backed, and holistic solutions grounded in community support and lasting results  has never been stronger, or more important.

Shares of the company have traded at under $1 since early February. In after-hours trading, the stock plunged by half to 39 cents.

The bankruptcy filing was made in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware.
The Wells Select Board listens to public feedback about the Wells Police Department contract with ICE during a meeting on May 6. (By Emma Davis/ Maine Morning Star)

A small coastal community in southern Maine is divided over their local police force contracting with federal immigration authorities.

The usually sparse Wells Select Board Meeting was standing room only Tuesday night with more than 50 people turning out to share both strong opposition to the agreement and unwavering support. Tensions ran high with one resident interrupting public comment to repeat the myth that there is a migrant crime surge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We talk about coming together and having conversations, but we cant even do it in this room, said Select Board Chair John MacLeod III after the outburst. Everybody in here has a right to speak, whether they agree with you or not, okay?

The Wells Police Department became the first local agency in Maine to contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement under the agencys 287(g) program in April. After previously being discontinued due to the discovery of discriminatory practices such as racial profiling, President Donald Trump revived the program to bolster ICEs capacity by deputizing local police officers to detain immigrants.

Some hope Wells will follow the Monmouth Winthrop Police Department, a combination of departments that serve central Maine communities, which withdrew its application for the program after community pushback, with their Police Chief Paul Ferland citing the division it caused in the community as the main reason. Such division in Wells was on full display Tuesday night.

Wells Police Chief Jo-Ann Putnman told Maine Morning Star on Thursday that she is not reconsidering the agreement in light of public comments and that Wells officers have begun the training for the program, which is online.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There shouldnt have been any controversy here to begin with, Putnam said. Theyre trying to bring the national platform to Wells, Maine, and thats not what this is about.

A handful of Wells residents had requested the board terminate the agreement during its meeting last month and that opposition has grown based on the sizable presence at Tuesdays meeting. These residents said they dont want their local force collaborating with an agency that has been accused of disregarding due process, for local police funding to go toward federal enforcement and possibly litigation, or for Wells to be known as an unwelcoming place for immigrants.

However, the latest meeting also drew those who commended local police for entering the federal partnership, telling the board that a few dozen people hand delivered a letter stating as much to Putnman on Monday.

Wells was the first and hopefully they wont be the only, said Bonnie Heptig, a small business owner.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As she has before, Putnam told Maine Morning Star that she entered into the agreement mainly to take advantage of a training opportunity. Officers are now completing that training in their spare time, which Putnam said fluctuates, so its not yet clear how long it will take to complete.

Residents in favor of the contract shared similar reasoning as Putnman, noting that they thought more training would be helpful.

I believe without a doubt that any training provided to this agency wouldnt be abused or used incorrectly because the ethics and the morals of our Wells Police has proven that, said Wells resident Cat Curly.

Trust in Wells Police is the one point of agreement among residents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As she told Maine Morning Star before last months meeting, Wells resident Cheryl Dearman Mills said the issue at hand is not a matter of trust. We are operating in the real world where we do not trust whats happening at a higher level, Dearman Mills said on Tuesday, and when you sign something that puts ICE in the supervisory role and allows for specific things, we dont trust that that can be controlled.

The Trump administration has faced a slew of lawsuits over its immigration enforcement and deportation policies for allegations of detaining and deporting people with varying legal statuses without due process. Dozens of judges have now issued adverse rulings.

Two federal judges on Tuesday blocked the administrations use of a wartime law to deport immigrants. In the most high profile case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, the U.S. Supreme Court ordered the Trump administration to facilitate the return of the erroneously deported Maryland resident, but stopped short of requiring it.

Wells Police Capt. Kevin Chabot told Maine Morning Star that the memorandum of understanding is boiler plate from Wells, Maine, down to Maricopa County, Arizona, and agencies utilize that in different manners.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chabot and Putnam said the only actions Wells police will be taking under the program is, if officers come across them in daily work, enforcing immigration detainers for people who are designated as criminal aliens, which is not a clearly defined legal term, but Chabot said for their purposes is someone not born the United States who is subject to deportation due to a criminal action.

Putnam added that she is going to write up an internal protocol that states as much.

Chabot said the department will not be proactively looking for undocumented immigrants under the agreement.

We dont measure peoples lobsters when they come off of a boat down in Wells harbor, either, Chabot said, referring to the legal limits on the size of lobsters that can be caught to ensure the population remains sustainable. Its just not the game we play.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We are operating in the real world where we do not trust what's happening at a higher level and when you sign something that puts ICE in the supervisory role and allows for specific things, we don't trust that that can be controlled.

 Cheryl Dearman Mills of Wells

Immigrants on student and work visas will not be targeted, Putnam said, noting that shes spoken with businesses who employ immigrants on work visas to try to assuage concerns.

Many towns in the state of Maine, including the town of Wells, rely on these people to come here and work and they are great workers and great members of the community, Putnam said. We have zero issue with them whatsoever. Thats not what this is about.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While Putnam has said her force will only use the agreement for training and to act on existing federal warrants that have had judicial review, the memorandum of understanding lists a much broader scope of work, such as interrogating anyone officers suspect to be in the country illegally, arresting without warrant people attempting to unlawfully enter the country and serving and executing warrants of arrest for immigration violations.

It talks about how theres a training available that is free, fantastic, but it also clearly states in that agreement that any additional costs are not covered by the Department of Homeland Security, said Wells resident Beth Allen.

ICE is responsible for the cost of training and information technology infrastructure, however the local law enforcement agency bears all other costs, including personnel expenses such as salary and overtime, benefits and lawsuits, according to the memorandum of understanding.

Even if members of this community do trust Chief Putnam to work within the bounds of what she has said she will use this agreement for, we have no guarantees, said Bath resident Elijah Diaz, who started organizing pickets at the Wells Police Department every Sunday after hearing about the agreement. These decisions could far outlive her tenure.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Other Wells residents took issue with the agreement being viewed as a training opportunity.

ICE Enforcement and Removal training is about detain and deport, not skills for professional development, John Stanton told the board.

In addition to raising concerns about costs that could be incurred to respond to constitutional challenges against law enforcement actions, some residents also noted the human costs. Stating that Wells is often referred to as the friendliest town in Maine, people in the hospitality business raised concern about that reputation possibly going away and hurting businesses due to the ICE agreement.

Wells resident Mary Marra urges the Select Board at its past two meetings to terminate the Wells Police Department contract with ICE. (By Emma Davis/ Maine Morning Star)

Daria Cullen, a Wells resident who is a part of Southern Maine for Racial Justice, said she has spoken with asylum seekers who are fearful of going out and worries the agreement will exacerbate that panic.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Were very divided, Cullen said of the community, and thats surprising to me.

Wells resident Mary Marra, who held up a sign that read support our local police by keeping Wells PD local, said, I think sometimes fear of the unknown gets the better of people.

As the matter is being debated on a town-level, the Maine Legislature is also considering legislation that would place state-wide restrictions on contracts with federal immigration agencies.

Democrats have proposed prohibiting state and local law enforcement agencies from entering into such contracts, while Republicans are attempting to prevent local agencies from adopting policies that would restrict them from assisting in the enforcement of federal immigration law.

While Wells remains the only local police agency in Maine in the 287(g) program, these agreements have been growing across the country.

As of May 6, ICE has signed 523 agreements for 287(g) programs across 38 states.

Wells agreement is specifically for 287(g)s task force model, which ICE describes as a force multiplier. ICE, as of May 6, has signed task force model agreements with 242 agencies.

This is up from 456 agreements overall and 190 task force agreements in mid-April.

The programs other two models are focused on investigating people who have already been arrested and booked in local jails.

Editors Note: This story was updated on May 8 to include comments from Wells Police Chief Jo-Ann Putnman and Capt. Kevin Chabot.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
The West Allis Common Council voted to revoke the liquor license of The Drunk Uncle following numerous complaints of alleged misconduct, a defamation lawsuit, and a "last weekend" celebration that ended with injuries and an arrest.

The council made its decision, 9-0, during a May 6 meeting at City Hall. Bar owner Neal Steffek had until April 30 to request an appeal hearing but did not do so.

They are 100% taking our license away, illegally, Steffek said before the meeting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When asked why he didn't appeal the councils decision, Steffek said he didnt know he could, but didnt think it would matter.

April Kreush, a bartender at The Drunk Uncle, said she feels the bar and Steffek are being unfairly targeted.

You can look at every other bar; they have bad reviews, Kreush said. And my whole thing with everything is nobody has ever considered talking to the sober female behind the bar. They always just target Neal. Ive been there for five years. I am the regular Saturday person, and Id say 90% of these issues happened when I was there. Well, Neals not the one responsible. I was the one responsible.

On March 14, Brynn Dutelle of Onalaska filed a defamation lawsuit against Steffek after The Drunk Uncle, run by Steffek, posted in insults responding to her one-star Google review.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At a March 18 meeting, the council voted not to renew The Drunk Uncles liquor license because the business lacked a valid sellers permit.

Following that decision, the city launched an investigation that uncovered seven other incidents at the bar since 2024, including allegations of inappropriate sexual comments and the selling of alcohol by bartenders without a license to tend at the bar. The city prosecutor submitted a formal complaint to the council.

A few residents spoke in favor of the bar, but the council ultimately moved forward with the revocation.

After the councils decision, Steffek said he was heartbroken.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What can I say? Im shocked, absolutely shocked," Steffek said. "Weve been there for 12 years; we are one of the highest-rated and most-reviewed establishments in the city. I have absolutely never seen any city or police department credit their social media, that somebody got a bad review online and asked the entire world to come out, make a comment, and they will take that as truth.

Steffek also said he was broke and no longer had a job.

The defamation case remains ongoing, with a court date scheduled for June 17, according to online court records. Neither Steffek nor his attorney would add additional comment regarding the case.

Adrienne Davis covers the south suburbs for the Journal Sentinel. Contact her at amdavis@gannett.com. Follow her on X at @AdriReportss.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: West Allis Common Council revokes The Drunk Uncle's liquor license
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A man wanted for rape in Henderson County, Tennessee, was taken into custody by the U.S. Marshals Service earlier this week, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

William Andrew Wallace, 26, is facing a rape charge after Henderson County Sheriffs Office say he was involved in a rape allegation November 2024.

5 trafficking victims rescued in Southaven, Mississippi

On April 24, a warrant for Wallaces arrest was issued. That is when the USMS was requested to find and arrest him.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On May 5, Wallace was found in the 3300 block of Shady Hill Road in Lexington, Tennessee, by the Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force in Jackson.

Wallace was taken into custody at that time without incident and sent to the Henderson County Jail.

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 WREG.com.
FRANKLIN, W.Va. (WBOY)  Law enforcement has announced the arrest of a Pendleton County man who they say was found with nearly 1500 pictures of child pornography.

Jerry Ayres

According to a release from the FBI, troopers with the West Virginia State Police opened an investigation into Jerry Lewis Ayres, 55, of Franklin, after receiving a tip from the Virginia State Polices Internet Crimes Against Children Unit. An investigation into Ayres revealed that he downloaded child pornography multiple times, with some images depicting minors under the age of 12 in sexual acts and positions. A search of his home, phone and computer yielded nearly 1500 images.

Woman who allegedly fled from police in a semi truck while drunk indicted in Harrison County

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ayres was arrested and federally charged with receipt of child pornography and possession of child pornography. He faces between five and 20 years in prison for the receipt count and up to 20 years in prison for the possession count. Hes currently being held in the Tygart Valley Regional Jail.

Ayres arrest comes as part of the Department of Justices Operation Restore Justice, a nationwide effort between several agencies to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. In total, the five-day operation resulted in the arrests of 205 such predators and the rescue of 115 children.

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 WBOY.com.
A hazardous waste removal specialist who was tasked with conducting environmental remediation at various sites in Western Massachusetts has agreed to give up his license after failing to comply to state standards.

Christopher P. Parent of Wilbraham entered into a consent agreement with the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Hazardous Waste Site Cleanup Professionals after several complaints were lodged against him by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protections Western Regional Office dating back to 2017.

The DEP, in filing their complaint against Parent, found that he was previously told to revise or retract work at a site in the Southeast Region, of the state, according to a letter sent to Beverly Roby, the then-executive director of the Licensed Site Professionals, dated January 2018.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The complaints, which The Republican obtained a copy of, said Parent failed to adhere to properly remediate various businesses in the Pioneer Valley including a former alternative waste removal site and a dry cleaners, both in Holyoke, and other businesses in Chicopee, Springfield and Westfield.

In one instance, Parent failed to detect the source and extent of tetrachloroethene (PCE) contamination of a propertys soil and groundwater, a statement from the board said.

Parent could not be immediately reached for comment. The Republican also was unsuccessful in its attempt to reach the businesses, which received notices of audit findings and non-compliance from the DEP and were responsible for the cleanup.

Parent, according to the statement from the board, entered into a consent agreement with the board without admitting to wrongdoing. Parent agreed to forego his license and will not apply again for the next four years, the statement said.

more news from Western Massachusetts

Read the original article on MassLive.
WESTFIELD, Mass. (WWLP)  The City Council in Westfield is in the process of voting on a new ordinance.

The Westfield City Council is currently in the process of voting on an ordinance that would increase the trash fee for residents, increasing the fee from $85 a year to $260 a year.

What happens if you dont have a Real ID by Wednesday?

I think the 2019 to 2020 period, the fee went from a little over a million dollars a year to about four million a year, but this is an item that is not presented as part of the regular budget, said Westfield City Councilor At-Large Dan Allie.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Councilors say it appears the extra money was coming out of a general fund. City Councilor At-Large Kristen Mello was one of three councilors who voted no, as she said her questions were not answered.

We were told that it is to cover the cost of the service, which I would be fine with if I had seen an Excel sheet or a Google sheet that broke down the cost of their service, but I dont have that, Mello said.

While Councilor Mello voted against the increased trash fee, she did vote in favor of an amendment proposed by City Councilor Bridget Matthews-Kane.

We are going to have a means-tested senior discount, Matthews-Kane said. Youll have to apply for it, and youll have to fit certain categories to apply. So instead of 10% going to any senior who applies, it will be a 50% discount going to seniors who really need this discount.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There are four categories of seniors who qualify for the discount. Three of the categories are based on seniors who applied for state tax exemptions, including 41A, 41C, and 17D. The last category is for seniors who applied for the Massachusetts Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit when filing their state taxes, which would require an application.

Ordinances take two meetings, so there is still a second meeting on May 15, where the City Council will revisit the proposal to determine if it passes. If the ordinance passes, they said the administration will then need time to discuss how it will be administered.

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.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
We recently published a list of 11 Best Performing Large Cap Stocks So Far in 2025. In this article, we are going to take a look at where Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE:HWM) stands against other best performing large cap stocks so far in 2025.

The stock market had a chaotic start to the first quarter of 2025. The uncertain tariff policy, growing fears of a recession, and inflation sent the stock market to the worst quarterly performance since the 2022 bear market. On March 31, ClearBridge Investment released its commentary on the market performance. Portfolio Managers Erica Furfaro and Margaret Vitrano highlighted that the S&P 500 index declined 4.27%, whereas the growth-heavy NASDAQ and Russell 1000 Growth Index fell 10.42% and 9.97%, respectively.

Elaborating more on the quarterly market performance, the portfolio managers noted that the Russell Growth Index underperformed the Russell Value Index by more than 1,200 basis points indicating that while large-cap stocks were impacted, the growth sector took the major hit. Tariffs were only one of the headwinds affecting the performance and the overall backdrop also includes the launch of Chinese LLM DeepSeek which questioned the AI capital expenditure of various large and mega-cap stocks. This capital expenditure bubble infected the performance of other Magnificent Seven to an extent that only one of the Mag Seven companies could outperform the Russell 1000 Index.

Erica Furfaro and Margaret Vitrano noted that their Large Cap Growth ESG strategy performed better than the benchmark amidst all the uncertainty. Their strategy takes the Russell Growth Index as a benchmark. The managers noted that the strategy revolved around being underweight for the Mag Seven and the IT sector. They also highlighted that balancing the portfolio with strong stocks across IT, communication, and financial services also played a pivotal role in generating more relative returns.

The investment fund also noted moving towards a moving to the middle approach, which refers to adjusting their portfolio to be less concentrated in any single sector and more balanced across different types of growth companies. Clearbridge has reduced its overweight position in healthcare and increased exposure to the IT sector, which was previously underweight. The fund believes this recalibration positions the portfolio for an economic slowdown. Lastly, Erica Furfaro and Margaret Vitrano noted that the first quarter witnessed the earnings growth broaden away from the Mag Seven and other large-cap stocks outside the big tech names delivered better earnings. They anticipate that, unless there is a recession, earnings growth from industrial and healthcare companies will begin to catch up with the technology sector in 2025.
The Writers Guild of America Wests discipline process is under scrutiny in a unionwide vote as the head of a union trial described the process as not being fair and proper.

Jill Goldsmith, who chaired the five-person trial committee, said despite the board unanimously recommending a suspension for writer Roma Roth for the alleged breaking of strike rules, the unions Board of Directors instead decided to expel her, the Los Angeles Times reports.

Roth executive produces Sullivans Crossing, a Canadian television show broadcast in the U.S. by the CW, and allegedly wrote for the show without a union waiver in place. Nexstar Media Group is the parent company for both KTLA and the CW.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Goldsmith said the committee agreed that Roth broke union rules, but she claims union lawyers involved themselves in the discipline process and improperly tipped the scale toward a more severe punishment.

I believe that before expelling a member and making a decision that can affect their life and livelihood, a proper process needs to be put in place, Goldsmith wrote.

A spokesperson for Roth echoed those concerns.

The outcome of these appeals will undoubtedly shape the standards by which the board operates moving forward, the spokesperson said in a statement. Members must now decide what kind of system they want in place should they ever have to face a disciplinary hearingone that is fair and impartial, or one that, as members of the trial committee pointed out, is inconsistent, flawed, and biased.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Guild told the Times that four members are appealing discipline rulings, and members are voting on those appeals this week.

The Hollywood Reporter identified the three other members as Julie Bush, Tim Doyle and Edward Drake.

Union member voting ends at 2 p.m. Pacific Time on Friday.

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.
The area surrounding Elon Musks SpaceX rocket launch site in southern Texas has officially become a city after a vote by residents in the area on May 3. The city, called Starbase, has been slated to become SpaceXs headquarters for the past few years, according to Musk.

SpaceXs rocket launch pad has been in the area since 2019, but Musk has been buying land in Cameron County since 2012. In 2024, SpaceX submitted a petition to officials for an election that would grant the area city status, and the petition was approved in February.

Under Texas law, a new city can be incorporated if at least 10% of registered voters in the area filed a petition for it and the majority of resident voters approve it at the ballot box.

Starbase, Texas, will soon be an official new city https://t.co/ZODDi4EZKA  gorklon rust (@elonmusk) February 13, 2025

Last weekend, 218 residents in Cameron County, Texas, voted on whether to make Starbase its own city, with 212 voting to pass the measure. Most of the residents work for SpaceX. Now that Starbase is a city, voters had to select leadership, which they did: SpaceX employee Bobby Peden was unanimously elected the mayor, and SpaceX employees Jordan Buss and Jenna Petrzelka were elected commissioners. (Its not clear whether Musk himself voted in this election.)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Becoming a city will help us continue building the best community possible for the men and women building the future of humanitys place in space, an X account dedicated to Starbase posted on May 3.

What is Starbase?

Starbase is a relatively remote area within Cameron County, near the border between the U.S. and Mexico. Its about 1.5 square miles of land, and nearly every resident either works at SpaceX or is married to or related to a SpaceX employee. The closest city is Brownsville, which is about 20 miles away; Texas State Highway 4 is the only road in and out of Starbase.

Created with Datawrapper

Starbase currently hosts a SpaceX landing pad, a SpaceX launch facility and a launch control center to test its rockets, which have all been around since 2019. There is an existing housing area for SpaceX employees, including the home where Musk is registered to vote in Texas, according to the New York Times.

SpaceXs rocket manufacturing facility and office building are near the housing area and feature a mural depicting a colony on Mars, which Musk has emphasized is his goal with SpaceX.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There are still several vacant areas of land within the city limits that suggest more growth for the city, like additional housing. In January 2024, SpaceX announced it was investing about $8.9 million in building a restaurant, retail space and a grocery store.

A $100 million, five-story office building was finished earlier this year, according to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.

Starbase has been Musks plan for years

Expanding SpaceXs presence in Texas specifically has been in Musks vision for years. In 2021, he tweeted Creating the city of Starbase, Texas.

Creating the city of Starbase, Texas  gorklon rust (@elonmusk) March 2, 2021

In July 2024, Musk announced on X that he was moving his SpaceX headquarters from Hawthorne, Calif., to the southern part of Texas, where Starbase now exists. He also announced that the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, would be moving from San Francisco to Austin, Texas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2021, Musk said California was a land of overregulation, overlitigation, overtaxation. Unlike California, Texas does not have corporate income tax or income or capital-gains taxes on individuals.

The move was also partly in reaction to California Gov. Gavin Newsom's signing the SAFETY Act, a law that prohibits school districts from requiring teachers to inform parents if a child wants to be identified by a different gender or pronouns.

This is the final straw.



Because of this law and the many others that preceded it, attacking both families and companies, SpaceX will now move its HQ from Hawthorne, California, to Starbase, Texas. https://t.co/cpWUDgBWFe  gorklon rust (@elonmusk) July 16, 2024

By early 2012, after much speculation, it was reported that Texas was a leading contender for housing SpaceXs launch facility, and in 2014, SpaceX announced it planned to make an $85 million investment and start building its site near Brownsville, Texas.

"In addition to creating hundreds of high-tech jobs for the Texas workforce, this site will inspire students, expand the supplier base and attract tourists to the South Texas area," Musk said in a statement at the time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Weeks after announcing his plan for building Starbase in Texas in 2021, Musk tweeted that his charity, the Musk Foundation, would funnel $10 million into helping rebuild downtown Brownsville and $20 million to help schools throughout Cameron County.

Future plans for Starbase

A visitor at the large bust of Elon Musk near SpaceX's Starbase. (Eric Gay/AP)

Starbases X account said on Monday that its leaders were working with federal agencies to establish a ZIP code for the city and officially rename the area. Soon, according to the X post, residents will be able to legally update their driver's licenses to reflect that they live in Starbase, Texas.

According to a filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, SpaceX is now working on a $22 million community building project, which should start in mid-June. The city also reportedly plans to build a school called Ad Astra, named after the one Musk launched for five of his children in 2014.

Current residents are fighting for Starbase to get connected to a local water system, according to the New York Times, but that does not seem to be in the process of happening. Instead, residents currently must have their water trucked in from Brownsville.
Anyone who has tried to entertain a baby knows sitting in stillness and silence is probably not the best way to keep them engaged, which presents a challenge for neuroscientists who want to study the developing brain.

Yet with the help of some TV, attentive parents and a lot of patience, researchers have designed protocols that help them keep babies awake and still in an fMRI machine. Doing so is important: Getting a clear reading on these brain scans can reveal never-before-seen details about what parts of the brain are active at a young age, helping researchers answer questions about memory, perception and cognition.

The goal of this research is to try to understand the human mind, and a really valuable perspective on that question is understanding how it develops, said Dr. Nick Turk-Browne, a psychology professor at Yale University studying infant cognition.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Scientists are still discovering new parts of the brain, and what happens in the developing mind has historically been hard to pin down in neuroscience research. Most information we know about the infant brain has traditionally been based on behavioral measures of where babies look or what they reach for in experiments. Other data extrapolates from animal experiments or cases in which people have undergone brain damage to infer what is happening in functional brain regions.

However, using an fMRI machine is considered the gold standard for mapping brain function, said Dr. Tristan Yates, a cognitive neuroscientist at Columbia University who studies perception and memory in early life.

The reason why is it gives you whole brain coverage  including access to really deep brain regions, Yates told Salon in a phone interview. This technology gives researchers access to more detailed information about certain brain regions that could answer some major questions about cognition, she added.

When fMRI machines came online in the 1990s, researchers did use them to look at infant brains, but these scans were typically conducted when babies were sleeping, Yates said. This means they couldnt study how aspects of the waking brain like cognition were impacted by various stimuli.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But in 2002, a research team in France successfully captured fMRI images of awake infants to measure how their brains responded to language. Another research team in Italy performed a similar experiment in 2015, and the first study scanning the brains of awake babies in the U.S. was published in 2017. In the near-decade since, various research teams have begun to explore what is going on in the infant mind to better understand neural development.

This fMRI work is also in its infancy, and its only really a handful of labs around the world that are doing it, Yates said. Were excited that were going to be able to start to disentangle what is going on here.

At birth, a babys brain is roughly one-third the size of an adult brain. It nearly doubles in size in the first year of life, making millions of neural connections each second in an endless process of learning.

Still, an infant brains relatively small size doesnt mean that it is necessarily underdeveloped: Surprisingly, fMRIs have shown that baby brains in many ways remarkably resemble adult brains, said Dr. Cameron Ellis, a psychology professor at Stanford University who researches what its like to be an infant.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When I started this work over 10 years ago  I expected it to be an alien landscape where many of the assumptions that we had and many of the things that are true about the adult brain wouldnt apply, Ellis told Salon in a phone interview. I have been proven wrong time and time again: Actually, the infant brain looks a lot like the adult brain.

Want more health and science stories in your inbox? Subscribe to Salon's weekly newsletter Lab Notes.

Although baby fMRIs have been helpful in highlighting what regions of the brain are operating in infancy, one limitation with this data is that activity in certain brain regions does not necessarily translate to the same thing in infants as it does in adults, Ellis noted.

Its something we have to be careful in this field of not over-interpreting similarity between infants and adults as meaning something about their cognitive capacity in its own self, Ellis said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Nevertheless, this research has changed the way researchers think about the developing mind in many ways. For example, neuroscientists often have the intuition that earlier in development, the infant experience is limited to more sensory processes like vision, hearing and touch, but that things that require one to attribute meaning or connect two things occur later in development, said Dr. Rebecca Saxe, a professor of brain and cognitive sciences at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

However, in a study Saxe authored last month in the journal Current Directions in Psychological Science, she and her colleagues found something that challenges previous assumptions about how infant brains develop. Specifically, the areas of the medial prefrontal cortex responsible for processing social environments were active when infants were exposed to faces. In adults, this region is also active with ideas of the self, like when you see your own phone number versus a random phone number, Saxe explained.

Maybe its not that first babies do visual processing and only later are connected to social meaning, Saxe told Salon in a phone interview. Maybe these brain regions are active because babies are responding to the social meaning of people and faces as early on as we can measure their brains.

In one study Turk-Browne, Ellis and Yates authored in Neuron in 2021, fMRI data showed activity in infants visual cortex when presented with different visual cues, indicating that babies are able to map out the world in front of them in their minds in a process called retinotopy as early as five months old. This is impressive that their process so closely resembles the adult brains considering a babys vision is still developing in the first few months of life.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In another study, a research team found that parts of infants brains in charge of shifting attention in the frontal parietal cortex were activated in infants as young as three months old.

Whats surprising about that is these are some of the parts of the brain that are thought to be the slowest to develop, Turk-Browne told Salon in a phone interview. Youve probably heard about this idea that our frontal lobe continues developing through adolescence, and thats true, but what we were showing is that some of the more rudimentary kinds of things like how we shift our attention and control our minds may be supported by those brain regions even in infancy.

However, there are important differences between infant and adult brains. In one 2022 study published by Turk-Browne, Ellis and Yates, infants were shown to process events on longer time scales than adults. This could be an important learning tool to help infants absorb more information about their environment before making a judgment about it based on their past experience, Yates said.

For example, infants can distinguish between sounds made in various languages at birth, but at around six to 12 months, they start to narrow in on the language they are around most often and lose the ability to distinguish between sounds made in other languages.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We haven't related this to learning yet, but it makes sense that it might be helpful to start kind of a big picture and then narrow it down, Yates said. One thing that happens in infancy is this process of perceptual narrowing, where babies in some ways have broader perceptual abilities than adults.

There also seems to be a difference in processing memories in infancy and adulthood. After all, people dont remember their infancy, with the first memories typically reported around the age of three or four.

The hippocampus is the brain structure responsible for memory, and it helps us remember specific memories of events that occurred at a certain time and place, as well as a more general sense of memory called statistical learning, where the brain detects patterns in the environment. For example, as children start going to different kinds of restaurants, statistical learning helps them understand what kinds of foods are served at a Mexican restaurant, a Thai restaurant and so on.

Infants have been shown to be good statistical learners. After all, thats how they pick up language, learn to recognize their family members and begin to understand the subtleties of their cultures. But it wasnt clear if this type of memory also happened in the hippocampus in infants, especially because the hippocampus doubles in size across infancy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To investigate this question, the research team showed infants a series of random and structured images while they were hooked up to the fMRI machine to see whether these areas of the brain were active when infants remembered the structured images over time. What they found was that these same regions of the brain were indeed active in infants as young as three-months old.

Thats a surprising finding because the alternative was that maybe in infants, the rest of the brain, or another part of the brain, is important for that kind of learning, Turk-Browne said. But in fact, we found that the adult mechanisms for statistical learning may be functional in babies.

This finding didnt explain why we cant remember being babies, but it did help researchers narrow down what questions they needed to ask to find out. Memories were activating the same regions in the brain in infants as they were in adults, but it could be that these memories cannot be stored in infancy. Or, it could be that the memories are stored in infancy but that they become inaccessible to us later on in life.

In another study, published in March in Science, the research team studied the hippocampus of infants hooked up to an fMRI machine was able to store specific episodic memories  not just statistical patterns  as early as 12 months of age. This suggests that the reason we dont remember our earliest years is related to how they are encoded in the brain.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There may be some of our early memories present in our brain, at least for some of our life, despite the fact that we cant access them, Turk-Browne said.

Turk-Brownes research lab is currently conducting studies to better understand how long those memories last in an infants mind and how detailed they are. This could help explain the disconnect between how we experience memories as infants and as adults.

What they find could help prove or disprove several theories on why we dont remember being babies. It could be, for example, that the way infants experience the world is different before they learn how to talk, and that labeling things with words and language helps shape our memories with more longevity.

For example, a six-month old child may remember being at a birthday party and hearing their family members talking, but if they cant make sense of the words and havent yet learned about birthdays, they might not sort this memory with the kind of detail that their older self would use to recollect it later on.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its like the memory is there, but you dont know how to find it, like an indexing problem, Ellis said. Its as if you went to the library and then someone changed all of the numbers so the book are not where they used to be.

Nevertheless, understanding why could help us better understand how things like early childhood experiences can be so influential later in life, even if they cannot be explicitly recalled, Yates said. It could also help us better understand how memory conditions like dementia or Alzheimers develop, Ellis said.

For patients with Alzheimers, the breakdown that might be happening in their brain could perhaps be repaired by implementing some of the changes that the infant brain goes through as it acquires learning and memory, Ellie said. Its entirely speculative at this point because we dont know what those changes are, but that is a potential hope in the future.
On May 25, 2020, George Floyd was murdered by a white police officer in Minneapolis. The tragedy sparked national outrage and a resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement, as people took to the streets of major cities across the country to protest and demand justice.

Brands reacted, too. Companies including Walmart, Target, and Starbucks launched commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and beyond, implementing inclusive hiring goals and making long-term investments in internal racial equity programs as well as supporting initiatives within underserved communities.

Five years on, with an executive order from President Donald Trump in place to "end radical and wasteful government DEI programs and preferencing," the majority of 2020 pledges made by brands have disappeared.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For Sheryl Daija, founder and CEO of global DEI marketing trade group BRIDGE, brands' initial pledges, specifically in support of the Black community, were well-intentioned, but DEI has since evolved from a practice to a buzzword, and now something more political.

"The practice of DEI has been happening in companies for the last 40 years. It's not new, it's an extension of the Civil Rights Movement," she said.

"The goal for DEI has always been to expand the opportunities given to more people that reflect the communities and consumers that companies serve," she said. "Instead of rolling back DEI, companies should be thinking about how they [can] leverage it for business opportunities."

ADWEEK reached out to some of the high-profile brands that made public DEI pledges in 2020 to get an update on their progress in 2025.

Walmart

2020 Pledge: Walmart created its Center for Racial Equity through a five-year, $100 million commitment to "address the root causes of gaps in outcomes experienced by Black and African American people in education, health, finance, and criminal justice systems."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By 2021, the brand distributed the first set of grants totaling $14.3 million to various nonprofit organizations. In addition, it also invested $5 million into North Carolina A&T State University for its Equity in Education Initiative, which aims to get more Black college graduates into careers in fields like business and engineering.

2025 Progress: A Walmart spokesperson confirmed to ADWEEK that the retail giant is on track to fulfill its $100 million commitment this year. Per its 2024 Annual Belonging, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Report, the Center for Racial Equity has invested more than $80 million through Walmart and the Walmart Foundation.

Whats next? Walmart began scaling back its DEI efforts before federal mandates kicked in. The retailer told ADWEEK it would not be renewing its Center for Racial Equity. Last November, Walmart confirmed that it would no longer use the term "DEI" in its communications (favoring the word "belonging"), will review grants to Pride events, and no longer consider gender and race when offering contracts to suppliers, among other pullbacks.

Bank of America

Looking up at Bank of America sign on building

2020 Pledge: Bank of America pledged $1 billion over four years to help local communities address economic and racial inequality. It later increased this to $1.25 billion over five years in 2021. The increased funding was intended to further support investments to address racial justice, advocacy, and equality for people and communities of color, including those of Asian descent.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

2025 Progress: Per the company's 2024 annual report released in March, it has exceeded its $1.25 billion goal. A Bank of America spokesperson declined to share by how much.

What's next? Bank of America excluded references to diversity and inclusion in its 2024 annual report, something it has highlighted in previous reports. The company did not respond to a request for more information about the exclusion, or whether the $1.25 billion investment would be renewed.

Target

Target store

2020 Pledge: In 2020, Target launched Racial Equity Action and Change (REACH), a committee of diverse senior leaders tasked with guiding the brand's efforts to help "end systemic racism in the U.S. and drive lasting impact for the Black community." The retailer also announced plans to increase its representation of Black team members companywide by 20% over three years.

In 2021, Target announced a commitment to spend more than $2 billion with Black-owned businesses by the end of 2025. It also pledged $10 million to nonprofit organizations focused on addressing barriers for systemic and structural Black communities, and in 2022 enhanced its Target Scholars Program, providing 1,000 first-year students at more than a dozen HBCUs $15,000 scholarships over three years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

2025 Progress: When contacted by ADWEEK, Target did not confirm whether its $2 billion investment and Target Scholars scholarships were on track to be fulfilled by the end of this year. It also did not confirm whether its promised $10 million investment has been fulfilled.

What's next? In January, Target announced that it would conclude REACH initiatives, including its three-year DEI goals. It is also stopping all external diversity-focused surveys, including the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index, which measures workplace policies, practices, and benefits relative to LGBTQ+ employees.

Starbucks

Photo of Starbucks storefront.

2020 Pledge: In 2020, Starbucks announced it was setting and tracking annual inclusion and diversity goals of at least 30% BIPOC representation at all corporate levels and at least 40% of all retail and manufacturing roles by 2025.

The Starbucks Foundation also pledged $1.5 million in Neighborhood Grants (which started in 2019) to prioritize community-based nonprofit organizations focused on local impact. It also invested $5 million to launch a two-year initiative supporting nonprofits that serve BIPOC youth.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

2025 Progress: Per an October update from Mark Brown, Starbucks' svp of talent and inclusion, the coffee chain has "made progress on the racial and ethnic diversity of Starbucks in the U.S.," with diverse partners representing more than 51.9% of its retail team and more than 37.9% of its corporate roles. However, Brown stated that it has made less progress in its manufacturing teams.

A Starbucks spokesperson confirmed to ADWEEK that its Neighborhood Grants program is ongoing. The brand has also fulfilled its two-year, $5 million investment, supporting eight youth organizations during that timeframe.

What's next? Despite facing lawsuits alleging that its DEI policies violate civil rights laws, Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol doubled down on the company's commitment to diversity, stating in its annual shareholder meeting in March that "diversity is going to continue to be a key strength of our business and frankly, helps us connect with our customers at another level."

Chief partner officer Sarah Kelly said Starbucks is "deeply committed to diversity" and is developing and designing programs focused on how we create and foster that inclusion, from strong partner networks to rewarding our senior leaders for creating a culture of belonging."
Pope Francis, 88, died at the Vatican the morning after Easter, succumbing after months of health issues, hospitalizations and battling bilateral pneumonia.

And today, Cardinals from around the world have gathered in the Sistine Chapel to cast their votes for a new pope in a 749-year-old, days-long voting process, called a conclave.

The papal conclave is one of the oldest and most important traditions in the Catholic church. Most popes dont resign, leaving the papacy vacant only when they die.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Do you know how many papal conclaves there have been in your lifetime? Heres how conclave works, a list of strong contenders to become the next pope and how many conclaves there have been in the last 100 years.

How is the new pope chosen? What is a conclave in the Catholic Church?

In the Catholic Church, each new pope is selected through the traditional practice of a conclave. According to Merriam-Webster, Conclave comes from a Latin word meaning room that can be locked up. Most simply put, the word conclave refers to a private meeting.

In a papal conclave, cardinals from around the world convene and are locked into the Sistine Chapel for up to four rounds of voting each day, day after day, until they reach the required two-thirds majority vote to elect a new pope.

If someone still doesnt have the majority vote after 33 rounds of voting, the top two candidates face off in a run-off vote. The group of cardinals that convene are called the College of Cardinals.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Since 1975, only those younger than 80 are able to participate in the papal conclave, USA TODAY reported. As of Jan. 22, there were 252 cardinals, of whom 138 are electors, according to the Vatican.

At the end of each day of voting, the cardinals burn slips of paper that create black smoke to billow from the chimney as a sign to Rome that the new pope has yet to be chosen. On the day the cardinals reach a majority vote, they burn slips of paper that create white smoke, as a sign to Rome that a pope has been chosen and has accepted the papacy.

Who are the contenders? A look at the leading candidates to succeed Pope Francis

When does the 2025 papal conclave start?

It typically takes a few weeks for a papal conclave to take place following the death  or in rare cases, resignation  of a pope.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Usually within three weeks of a pope's death, the College of Cardinals, the church's most senior officials residing either at the Vatican or spread across the world, gather in Rome for a papal conclave to choose the next pope, according to USA TODAY.

Today, just over two weeks after Pope Franciss passing, the 2025 papal conclave began.

At 4 a.m. ET, 10 a.m. Vatican Time, the 133 voting cardinals gathered at St. Peters Basilica for a Holy Mass. And at 10:30 a.m. ET, 4:30 p.m. Vatican Time, the cardinals assembled in the Apostolic Palace for a prayer, before proceeding to the Sistine Chapel to begin casting their votes.

When will the new pope be elected? How long does a conclave last?

Conclaves in the Catholic Church take as long as needed, which once meant it could take years, but in the 20th century has whittled down to just a few days.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The papal conclave  which has remained virtually unchanged after more than 800 years  takes as long as needed. Over the centuries, it has taken hours, days, months and even years for a successor to be named, USA TODAY reported.

In 2013, Pope Francis was elected after just over a day of voting. The longest conclave in history was in 1268, when it took nearly three years for the College of Cardinals to elect Pope Gregory X, according to EWTN Vatican. The average modern conclave is much shorter, lasting from around two to five days.

Who will be the next pope? See potential picks

Any baptized Roman Catholic male is technically eligible to be elected pope, but the pope has been chosen from the College of Cardinals since 1378, according to Religion News Service.

Since Pope Francis's hospitalization early this year, there's been discussion over some of the more prominent cardinals in line for the pontiff, including:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vaticans secretary of state

Peter Turkson, of Ghana, served as president of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace

Luis Tagle, prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples since December 2019 and former archbishop of Manila

Peter Erdo, a conservative theologian from Hungary, two-time president of the Council of Bishops Conferences of Europe

Matteo Zuppi, archbishop of Bologna for almost 10 years, favored by Pope Francis and made a cardinal under his papacy in 2019

Joseph Tobin, progressive archbishop of Newark, New Jersey, who was close to Pope Francis and made a cardinal under his papacy in 2016. Tobin is one of 10 American cardinals who will vote in conclave.

Jean-Marc Aveline, of Algeria, described as Francis' favorite bishop, according to the Catholic Herald

Angelo Scola, archbishop emeritus of Milan, was among the favorites to assume the papacy in 2013

Mario Grech, native of Malta, currently secretary general of the Synod of Bishops

Juan Jose Omella, archbishop of Barcelona

Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Patriarch of Jerusalem, raised in rural Northern Italy

How many conclaves have there been in your lifetime? See list of popes

There have only been nine papal conclaves in the last 111 years. This papal conclave is the 10th since 1914.

In the list below, you might notice that Pope John Paul I only has one year behind his name. This is because, in an extremely rare turn of events, he died of a heart attack just 33 days after he assumed the papacy.

How many conclaves have there been in your lifetime? List of popes from 1914 through now:

258th pope: Benedict XV (1914-22)

259th pope: Pius XI (1922-39)

260th pope: Pius XII (1939-58)

261st pope: St. John XXIII (1958-63)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Contributing: Jorge L. Ortiz, Phaedra Trethan, Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA TODAY

This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Conclave starts today: Cardinals begin voting for new pope. Here's how
Just after midnight on Wednesday, Indias army launched Operation Sindoor, hitting nine sites it described as terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Pakistans armed forces said Indias military attacked six different places in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, launching 24 strikes, killing at least eight people and wounding more than 35.

The locations targeted in the attacks include:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ahmedpur Sharqia, near Bahawalpur (Punjab province)  The deadliest strike occurred here, where a mosque compound was hit, killing at least five people, including a three-year-old girl, according to Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, spokesperson for the Pakistan Armed Forces.

Muridke city (Punjab province)

A village near Sialkot (Punjab province)

Shakargarh (Punjab province)

In Pakistan-administered Kashmir, two locations were also hit:

Muzaffarabad and Kotli  where two mosques were destroyed, killing a 16-year-old girl and an 18-year-old boy.

(Al Jazeera)

Pakistani officials claim their forces have also shot down five Indian warplanes. India did not immediately comment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Indian Army says Pakistani artillery fire killed at least three people in Indian-administered Kashmir.





Where is Kashmir?

Located in the northwest of the Indian subcontinent, Kashmir lies at a high altitude, with much of the region rising over 1,500 metres (4,900 feet) above sea level. It covers an area of 222,200 square kilometres (85,800 square miles).

The population is overwhelmingly Muslim, with approximately four million people living in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and about 13 million in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir.

The de facto border that divides Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Indian-administered Kashmir is known as the Line of Control (LoC). The line originally marked the military front when the two countries declared a ceasefire in January 1949 after their first war over Kashmir. It was formally named the LoC under the 1972 Simla Agreement, signed after the 1971 war that resulted in the creation of Bangladesh.

Interactive_Kashmir_LineOfControl_April23_2025

Who controls Kashmir?

India, Pakistan and China each claim parts of Kashmir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistan controls the northern and western portions, namely Gilgit and Baltistan and what Pakistan calls Azad Kashmir or free Kashmir. India controls the southern and southeastern parts, including the Kashmir Valley and its biggest city, Srinagar, as well as Jammu and Ladakh.

Pakistan calls Indian-administered Kashmir Indian-occupied Kashmir. India returns the favour  it calls Pakistan-administered Kashmir Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Interactive_Kashmir_Territorial Control_April23_2025

What happened during the Pahalgam attack?

On April 22, armed men opened fire on a group of tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir, killing 26 men in one of the deadliest attacks on tourists in decades.

The attack occurred in the Baisaran meadow, in Pahalgam, a well-known tourist destination located 50km (32 miles) southeast of the regional summer capital, Srinagar.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Resistance Front (TRF), a little-known armed group, which India insists is a proxy for the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the attack.

(Al Jazeera)

India has implied it believes Pakistan may have indirectly supported the Pahalgam attack  a claim Pakistan strongly denies.

Prior to Wednesdays attacks, both countries had engaged in tit-for-tat diplomatic swipes at each other, including cancelling visas for each others citizens, recalling diplomatic staff and closing airspace to each others carriers.
A 25 Investigates report that first aired Monday night is contributing to the national immigration debate after revealing that a wanted child rapist from Brazil had been living undetected in a daycare on Cape Cod for years.

Andre Tiago Lucas, convicted in Brazil for raping a 13-year-old, resided in a state licensed Hyannis home daycare facility until months before his arrest by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in October.

Investigative reporter Ted Daniels findings have been widely shared, even reaching the Trump administration. The official X account for the White House posted a stencil portrait of Lucas and wrote President Trumps policies will hunt down and deport every last predator.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security further amplified the controversy, posting Wednesday that Sanctuary jurisdictions are putting the lives of Americans in danger, linking the case to broader debates about state and local cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

Todd Lyons, the acting director of ICE, called the situation a failure at the state level, citing both the vetting process of the daycare operator and the fact that Lucas was able to evade authorities while hiding from a prison sentence for a heinous crime.

However, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey vehemently pushed back against the sanctuary state label. Massachusetts, we are not a sanctuary state, Healey stated. When questioned by Daniel about the fairness of the Trump administration connecting Lucas to the states immigration policies, Governor Healey responded, No. As soon as the department (EEC) found out about it, they took action.

Franciele Nunes, the reported mother of Lucass children operated the home daycare. Governor Healey said that Nunes had actively concealed Lucas from the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), the agency that licenses and inspects daycares.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Daycare operators are required to identify anyone who lives or regularly visits so they can undergo background checks, but 25 Investigates found screening does not extend to criminal history records from outside the United States.

Thats what happened. She was lying to EEC, and Im glad she got caught. Shes no longer a provider, and the person is in ICE custody, Healey explained.

Healey emphasized her law enforcement background as the former Massachusetts Attorney General. Anyone who commits crimes, especially crimes against children, needs to be dealt with. And if they are not here lawfully, they need to be deported, she said.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Donald Trump is tapping Dr. Casey Means, a physician-turned-wellness influencer with close ties to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as his nominee for surgeon general after withdrawing his initial pick for the influential health post.

Trump said in a social media post Wednesday that Means has impeccable MAHA credentials  referring to the  Make America Healthy Again  slogan  and that she will work to eradicate chronic disease and improve the health and well-being of Americans.

Her academic achievements, together with her lifes work, are absolutely outstanding, Trump said. Dr. Casey Means has the potential to be one of the finest Surgeon Generals in United States History.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In doing so, Trump withdrew former Fox News medical contributor Janette Nesheiwat from consideration for the job, marking at least the second health-related pick from Trump to be pulled from Senate consideration. Nesheiwat had been scheduled to appear before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee Thursday for her confirmation hearing.

Means and her brother, former lobbyist Calley Means, served as key advisers to Kennedys longshot 2024 presidential bid and helped broker his endorsement of Trump last summer. The pair made appearances with some of Trumps biggest supporters, winning praise from conservative pundit Tucker Carlson and podcaster Joe Rogan. Calley Means is currently a White House adviser who appears frequently on television to promote restrictions on SNAP benefits, removing fluoride from drinking water and other MAHA agenda items.

Casey Means has no government experience and dropped out of her surgical residency program, saying she became disillusioned with traditional medicine. She founded a health tech company, Levels, that helps users track blood sugar and other metrics. She also makes money from dietary supplements, creams, teas and other products sponsored on her social media accounts.

In interviews and articles, Means and her brother describe a dizzying web of influences to blame for the nations health problems, including corrupt food conglomerates that have hooked Americans on unhealthy diets, leaving them reliant on daily medications from the pharmaceutical industry to manage obesity, diabetes and other chronic conditions.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Few health experts would dispute that the American diet  full of processed foods  is a contributor to obesity and related problems. But Means goes further, linking changes in diet and lifestyle to a raft of conditions including infertility, Alzheimers, depression and erectile dysfunction.

Almost every chronic health symptom that Western medicine addresses is the result of our cells being beleaguered by how weve come to live, Means said in a 2024 book co-written with her brother.

Food experts say its overly simplistic to declare that all processed foods are harmful, since the designation covers an estimated 60% of U.S. foods, including products as diverse as granola, peanut butter and potato chips.

They are not all created equal, said Gabby Headrick, a nutrition researcher at George Washington Universitys school of public health. It is much more complicated than just pointing the finger at ultra-processed foods as the driver of chronic disease in the United States.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Means has mostly steered clear of Kennedys controversial and debunked views on vaccines. But on her website, she has called for more investigation into their safety and recommends making it easier for patients to sue drugmakers in the event of vaccine injuries. Since the late 1980s, federal law has shielded those companies from legal liability to encourage development of vaccines without the threat of costly personal injury lawsuits.

She received her medical training at Stanford University but has built an online following by criticizing the medical establishment and promoting natural foods and lifestyle changes to reverse obesity, diabetes and other chronic diseases.

If confirmed as surgeon general, Means would be tasked with helping promote Kennedys sprawling MAHA agenda, which calls for removing thousands of additives and chemicals from U.S. foods, rooting out conflicts of interest at federal agencies and incentivizing healthier foods in school lunches and other nutrition programs.

Nesheiwat, Trump's first pick, is a medical director for an urgent care company in New York and has appeared regularly on Fox News to offer medical expertise and insights. She is a vocal supporter of Trump and shares photos of them together on social media. Nesheiwat is also the sister-in-law of former national security adviser Mike Waltz, who has been nominated to be Trump's ambassador to the United Nations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But she had recently come under criticism from Laura Loomer, a far-right ally of Trump who was instrumental in ousting several members of the presidents National Security Council. Loomer posted on X earlier this week that we cant have a pro-COVID vaccine nepo appointee who is currently embroiled in a medical malpractice case and who didnt go to medical school in the US as the surgeon general.

Independent freelance journalist Anthony Clark reported last month that Nesheiwat earned her medical degree from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine in St. Maarten, despite saying that she has a degree from the University of Arkansas School of Medicine. The White House pulled Nesheiwats nomination because of doubts about her confirmation prospects, according to a person familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the administration's reasoning.

I am looking forward to continuing to support President Trump and working closely with Secretary Kennedy in a senior policy role to Make America Healthy Again! My focus continues to be on improving the health and well-being of all Americans, and that mission hasnt changed, Nesheiwat wrote on social media Wednesday.

The surgeon general, considered the nations doctor, oversees 6,000 U.S. Public Health Service Corps members and can issue advisories that warn of public health threats.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In March, the White House pulled from consideration the nomination of former Florida GOP Rep. Dave Weldon to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. His skepticism on vaccines had raised concerns from key Republican senators, and he withdrew after being told by the White House that he did not have enough support to be confirmed.

The withdrawal was first reported by Bloomberg News.

__

This story was first published May 7, 2025. It was published again May 9, 2025, to correct that Means did her medical training at Stanford University, but not her surgical training. She was a surgical resident at Oregon Health and Science University but did not complete the program.
President Donald Trump has selected a conspiracy theorist and self-styled Make America Healthy Again wellness influencer who is not currently licensed to practice medicine to be the nations next Surgeon General.

Trump made the new pick after withdrawing his initial choice days before she was scheduled to go before the U.S. Senate for a confirmation hearing.

In a Truth Social post on Wednesday, Trump said he was choosing Dr. Casey Means, a practitioner of so-called functional medicine who is a close ally of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr, citing her impeccable MAHA credentials.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He claimed Means, who completed her initial medical education at Stanford Universitys medical school but dropped out of an ear, nose and throat residency program at the University of Oregon and currently has no active medical license, would work closely with Kennedy to ensure a successful implementation of our Agenda in order to reverse the Chronic Disease Epidemic, and ensure Great Health, in the future, for ALL Americans.

Wellness influencer and new U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Casey Means (left) and journalist Megan Kelly attend a confirmation hearing for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for the secretary of Health and Human Services post at the Capitol in Washington early this year. (AP)

Trumps decision to nominate Means came after he made the decision to withdraw his initial pick, Dr Janette Nesheiwat, marking the second time one of his top health care policy picks has faltered before being considered by the U.S. Senate.

Dr Janette Nesheiwats nomination was withdrawn amid controversy over her medical training (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Nesheiwat, a former Fox News contributor who is also the sister-in-law of former Trump White House National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, had been selected to be one of the countrys top public health officials largely on the strength of her record as a television personality.

But as her confirmation hearing approached, Nesheiwat had become a magnet for controversy after self-styled investigative journalist and conspiracy theorist Laura Loomer pushed for Trump to pull her nomination over her ties to Waltz and her support for vaccination against COVID-19 rendered her unfit for the job.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) she accused Nesheiwat of being not ideologically aligned with Donald Trump or his admins health initiatives.

She used her access to Fox News to promote the dangerous Covid vaccine, which is now killing millions of people. She tried to shame people who didnt take the vaccine by calling them global health threats, Loomer said.

Loomers push to oust Nesheiwat came on the heels of a CBS News report that called into question whether shed been forthright about her education and background.

Jerome Adams tweet about Janette Nesheiwat (Jerome Adams / X)

Last month, the television network reported that Nesheiwat had listed herself on LinkedIn as a graduate of the University of Arkansas School of Medicine, the institution where she completed her medical residency.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The board-certified physician actually attended and earned her doctoral degree from American University of the Caribbean (AUC) School of Medicine, which is located on the Caribbean island of St Maarten.

Its not uncommon for Americans to attend medical schools in the Caribbean, as those schools are known as having slightly more relaxed admissions standards than schools in the United States.

But those schools still teach a standard medical curriculum and award a Doctor of Medicine degree. At AUC, students complete a four-year program of two years in a classroom and an additional two years in clinical rotations at a licensed medical facility. CBS News reported Nesheiwat was enrolled there for six years, from 2000 to 2006.

Completing ones medical education after studying abroad also requires passing the three-step United States Medical Licensing Examination administered by the Federation of State Medical Boards and the National Board of Medical Examiners.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Passing the USMLE is also required for aspiring physicians to be eligible for residency programs at American hospitals, the final step in education before being permitted to practice medicine.

Nesheiwats brother-in-law, Mike Waltz, was removed from his position as National Security Adviser and has been nominated to be the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations instead (AFP via Getty Images)

Its at the University of Arkansas where Nesheiwat completed her medical education with a multi-year residency.

Jerome Adams, the former Surgeon General who served in that role during the first Trump administration, wrote on X that he did not know what was more troubling to him, the possibility that stigma against foreign medical graduates would have led to Nesheiwats nomination being withdrawn, or the possibility that it would have been due to her support for vaccines.

The FMG talk is ill informed and troubling. Much of our U.S. medical care (esp rural) depends on foreign grads. And Dr. N completed a U.S. residency (which is where you really learn how to practice medicine anyway). Hoping this doesnt stigmatize docs who trained outside U.S., he added.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) reported its highest-ever full-year performance in fiscal 2025, driven by solid domestic travel demand and limited additions to hotel supply.

Strong domestic business travel demand, coupled with mega wins like the Kumbh Mela, international music concerts like Coldplay and a strong wedding season, were the key demand drivers this year, IHCL CEO Puneet Chhatwal said at an earnings call on Monday.

Those factors helped room-night sales grow 6% industry-wide, even as new room supply expanded by less than 3% year-on-year, allowing hotels in the country to fill more beds at higher rates.

IHCL re-affirmed its Accelerate 2030 vision to operate 700 properties by the decades end. The company had 74 new signings and opened 26 hotels last year, from luxury flagships under the Taj banner to mid-market stays with Ginger and Vivanta.

Chhatwal said the company plans to invest over INR 12 billion (approximately $142 million) in fiscal 2026. This includes asset upgrades, new projects, and investments focused on the Taj brand and digital infrastructure.

Reviving the Inbound Story

While domestic tourism has been strong, India has struggled to lift inbound tourism, an issue that Skift and Skift Research have documented.



Now, IHCL is placing more emphasis on attracting international travelers. Referencing projections of 28 million foreign arrivals by 2030  a nearly 40% increase over pre-pandemic levelsChhatwal noted the potential for growth in inbound tourism.

The company has allocated INR 250 million ($3 million) over three years to promote India abroad. IHCL is also offering more flexible booking policies and inclusive pricing to encourage travel agents to increase inbound bookings.

The Last-Minute Traveler, Loyalty, and Direct Bookings

One insight that has resonated through 10 straight quarters: booking windows are shrinking. Outside peak seasons, like school holidays, summer breaks and Christmas holidays, Indian travelers are planning getaways as little as 1224 hours in advance, Chhatwal said.

Post-pandemic shifts toward spontaneous, self-driven road trips have driven this last-minute phenomenon, and IHCL expects this to persist as Indians travel more than ever before.

Beyond its core hotels, IHCLs new and reimagined ventures are scaling fast.

Qmin, the companys grab-and-go food concept spun off from Ginger, has expanded to 72 outlets. In addition to serving the F&B brand for Ginger Hotels, Qmin has also established a presence in retail through its partnership with WestSide stores in Mumbai and Bengaluru in a shop-in-shop format. Qmin has also launched at Chennai, Kolkata and Bengaluru Airports in partnership with TFS.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer released a report from Michigan's health department that says more than 700,000 Michiganders could lose their health care coverage under potential Medicaid cuts floated by Republicans in Washington, D.C., to pay for a tax cut.

Though a congressional Republican plan remains in flux, Whitmer sought out the study of possible cuts to Medicaid and wielded the data to once more sound the alarm on the issue.

Many policy analysts expect U.S. House Republican leaders to unveil a budget proposal that entails deep cuts to Medicaid, the program jointly funded by the federal government and the states that provides public health insurance for those with low incomes. But while the state report released by Whitmer and compiled by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services weighs the potential impact several options said to be under consideration could have on Michigan residents, no formal GOP plan has been released. Any plan that is proposed could also change drastically as it is considered by both chambers of Congress before being sent to be signed into law by President Donald Trump.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Already, Republican U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, of Louisiana, has moved toward ruling out sweeping changes to the formula through which the federal government provides funding for states' expanded Medicaid programs under the Affordable Care Act and capping those funds, according to multiple news reports. Michigan's analysis considered that change of a lower federal match, saying it could cost the state more than $1 billion.

But Johnson hasn't ruled out mandating work requirements for Medicaid recipients, according to multiple news reports. The state's health department anticipates such a change could result in large administrative costs and many recipients losing health care coverage, but said in its report that the department "does not have a clear picture of what populations would be included or excluded from potential work requirements."

Besides Trump's tariff policies, no other shift in policy coming out of Republicans in control of the federal government has drawn the same level of concern from Whitmer as the possible cuts to Medicaid.

Whitmer has sought to find common ground with the Trump administration, an approach she has credited with helping Michigan secure an announcement from Trump for a long-sought fighter mission at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But she has raised her voice to speak out against possible federal funding cuts to Medicaid, hosting a roundtable discussion on the subject in March with U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell, D-Ann Arbor, at CS Mott Children's Hospital in Ann Arbor.

At that event, Whitmer expressed concern about possible health care coverage losses amid Medicaid cuts and potential hospital closures.

"Every one of us is going to pay," Whitmer told reporters.

In April, the governor signed an executive directive asking the state's health department to identify how proposed cuts to Medicaid would affect the more than 2.6 million Michigan residents currently covered by Medicaid, including the more than 700,000 covered by the state's Medicaid expansion program  signed into law by Whitmer's GOP predecessor former Gov. Rick Snyder. The health department found that it is those Michiganders who currently benefit from the expansion program who could lose health coverage in the event of a reduction in federal funding match rates. Whitmer hosted a news conference to sign the directive with Dingell and Democratic U.S. Reps. Rashida Tlaib, of Detroit, and Haley Stevens, of Birmingham.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Michiganders will suffer because these proposed cuts go too far, too fast, and everyone, including those not on Medicaid, will end up paying more for their insurance. Republicans in Congress cannot let this happen," Whitmer said in a statement May 7 upon releasing the state health department's report on the possible impact of federal changes to Medicaid.

Michigan Politics: Whitmer 'still at it,' eyeing other priorities after securing Selfridge win from Trump

Elizabeth Hertel, director of the state's health department, also delivered a warning for Michiganders not covered by Medicaid. "Medicaid patients make up an average of 22% of hospital patient volume and the loss of funding under these proposals will cause rural hospital closures and loss of providers," Hertel said in a statement.

Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II planned to participate in a rally May 7 in the district of U.S. Rep. John James, R-Shelby Township, urging the congressman to protect Medicaid as the Energy and Commerce Committee James serves on plans to weigh a budget reconciliation bill. Both Gilchrist and James are running for governor to replace Whitmer, who cannot run again due to term limits.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Most budget analysts watching the federal budget talks say it's unlikely Republicans can hit their target for spending reductions needed to keep tax cuts they and Trump want from vastly increasing the deficit without deep cuts to Medicaid. But more moderate Republicans, especially those from swing districts, have been raising concerns in recent weeks, saying they may not be able to support severe cuts to the program.

Free Press staff writer Todd Spangler contributed to this report.

Contact Clara Hendrickson at chendrickson@freepress.com or 313-296-5743.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Whitmer decries possible Medicaid cuts
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT)  Wednesday morning, the College of Cardinals gathered at the Vatican to begin the process of selecting a new pontiff. Its a decision that Father Joe Lubrano of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Huntsville said Catholics around the world are eagerly awaiting.

We will celebrate it, he said. When Pope Francis died, we took his picture down and then we put some draping around it and candles in front of it, but with the new pope, well put up a new picture and we will celebrate that.

The College of Cardinals gathered for morning mass at St. Peters Basilica. Wednesday afternoon, they will meet behind closed doors to pray and begin the voting process.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They will take time to pray and to think and to talk and to share, and to decide who might be the next, pope, our Holy Father, said Fr. Joe. In the Middle Ages, it took him three years!

Nowadays, the voting process can take anywhere between a few hours to several weeks. A cardinal must receive a two-thirds vote to be declared pontiff, a decision that will be signaled to the outside world by smoke.

After they do the ballots, if nobody has the majority, then the smoke will be black, said Fr. Joe. If they choose somebody, the smoke is white, and so that will be our only clue. Then, shortly after, the holy father will come out.

While there are no official candidates, the names of several cardinals have been floated as papabile, including Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, Pietro Parolin, Luis Tagle, and Pierbattista Pizzaballa.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fr. Joe said people can speculate, but theres really no telling who the College will choose.

I have no preference, he said. Whoever the Holy Spirit decides, thatll be who the pope will be, and Ill be happy with that.

Even though Huntsville is geographically distant from the Vatican, Fr. Joe said the pope is present as a spiritual leader and role model. He said service, humility, and compassion are important qualities that Pope Francis embodied that he hopes the next pope will carry over.

As things were going on in the Gaza Strip, Pope Francis called on a regular basis to see how the priests, how the community was doing, how, the Christians were making out, he said. That touched my heart because that, to me, is what a pope is supposed to do is to be a shepherd and I think thats what were looking for.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
Rep. Greg Murphy, R-N.C., joins The Hill to discuss the economic impact of President Trumps reciprocal tariffs across the world and in the United States, including North Carolina, which exported $8.5 million of goods to Canada.

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.
Russias annual Victory Day parade is set to take place in Moscow on May 9, in a week dramtically marked by a series of Ukrainian drone strikes on the city.

Russia's Victory Day celebrations on May 9, which mark the Soviet Union's role in defeating Nazi Germany in World War II, are one of the country's biggest public events of the year.

The annual event is a key part of Russian President Vladimir Putin's propaganda efforts to justify aggression against what the Kremlin falsely describes as "Nazis" in Ukraine.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The parade will take place as Ukraine reportedly attacked Moscow with drones for three days in a row from May 4-6, repeatedly forcing the closure of several airports in the region.

In an effort to provide some semblance of security to the event, Russia last month unilaterally announced a "humanitarian" truce from May 8 until midnight on May 11.

Under no obligation to sign up for a ceasefire it wasn't consulted on, Ukraine has not agreed to adhere to it, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissing it as a "theatrical performance."

Zelensky said Ukraine cannot guarantee the safety of foreign officials planning to attend Moscow on May 9, warning that any incidents on Russian territory fall solely under the Kremlins control.

Who's attending Moscows parade?

At least 29 world leaders are expected to attend the event, Russian state-controlled media reported on May 6.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We have invited many foreign guests. And we expect 29 leaders of the countries we have invited to be present at the Victory Parade," Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov told reporters.

Last year, only nine foreign leaders joined Russian President Vladimir Putin at the parade. Ukraine and most European nations mark May 8 as Victory in Europe Day.

The most high-profile guest in attendance this year will be Chinese President Xi Jinping who plans to visit Moscow on May 7-10 to "sign a number of bilateral inter-governmental and inter-departmental documents" to strengthen Chinese-Russian relations, according to the Kremlin.

Russian dictator Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping at a reception following their talks at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia on March 21, 2023. (Pavel Byrkin / Sputnik / AFP via Getty Images)

It will be Xis second trip to Russia, after he met with Putin in Moscow in 2023 during his first foreign visit since his re-election.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

China, which portrays itself as a neutral party in the war, has become the Kremlin's largest supplier of dual-use goods essential for weapons manufacturing.

Tensions between Ukraine and China have risen in recent weeks after Zelensky on April 9 said that 155 Chinese citizens were fighting for Russia on the territory of Ukraine.

A day prior, Kyiv captured the first two Chinese nationals in Donetsk Oblast. China has denied any role in Russia's full-scale invasion.

Xi is scheduled to fly to Russia on May 7, so if Ukraine's drone strikes continue, he could face some serious delays.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Finance Minister Fernando Haddad attend the New Industry Brazil  Mission 4: Industry and the Digital Revolution ceremony at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia, Brazil, on Sept. 11, 2024. (Ton Molina / NurPhoto via Getty Images)

President of Brazil, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva also plans to come in show of support to Putin.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to Brazilian media, Lula will hold a bilateral meeting with Putin during which he hopes to position himself as a mediator in negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.

In 2024, Lula jointly developed a Ukraine peace plan with China that was dismissed as "destructive" by Kyiv.

European officials absent on Red Square

Europe will be sparsely represented at the parade  Prime Minister of Slovakia Robert Fico will represent the only EU member state, while Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic is also said to be attending.

However, while both politicians are on the guest list, both have recently cancelled planned public appearances due to health issues, raising doubts that they will make it to the parade.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

All other EU leaders are boycotting the parade once again. The U.S. also doesnt plan to send representatives, despite U.S. President Donald Trumps sharp turn of American foreign policy towards renewing diplomatic contacts with Russia that were severed after its 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico (L) and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic meet to discuss illegal migration in Komarno, Slovakia, on Oct. 22, 2024. (Robert Nemeti / Anadolu via Getty Images)

According to Russian state media, the other world leaders set to attend are those from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Burkina Faso, Congo, Cuba, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Guinea Bissau, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Mongolia, Myanmar, Palestine, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Venezuela, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe.

Representatives from North Korea and Russian-controlled Abkhazia and South Ossetia, as well as defense ministers from 31 countries, will also be present.

A number of countries are also contributing troops to the parade. Military personnel from 13 countries  Azerbaijan, Belarus, China, Egypt, Laos, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Myanmar, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam  are expected to march through Moscow.

Other security measures

As well as the unilateral truce, Russia on May 7 confirmed that mobile internet restrictions will be enforced in Moscow and several Russian regions while foreign officials visit the country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov claimed the measures, which may last through May 10, are necessary due to "dangerous neighbors."

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
AUSTINTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  A man stopped traffic to help save a family of ducks in Austintown.

Read next: Election results

It happened on Mahoning Avenue Wednesday morning near Idaho Road.

The man was worried that other drivers might not see the mom with her ducklings, so he helped them waddle across the road.

They were able to safely continue their journey, and no ducklings seemed to be lost in the process.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Brandon Jaces 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.
Islamabad, Pakistan  Parts of Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir were rocked by multiple missile attacks by India early on Wednesday morning, in which at least 31 people, including a three-year-old child, died.

Pakistans military said Indian missiles struck six cities. That included four different places in Punjab province  the first time that India has hit Pakistans most populous state since the 1971 war between the neighbours. The remaining two places targeted were Muzaffarabad and Kotli, both in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

India claimed that its Operation Sindoor targeted nine sites with terrorist infrastructure.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistan scrambled its jets in response and claimed it had brought down five Indian planes  an assertion to which India has not yet responded.

The Indian attack came 15 days after the deadly attack on tourists in the picturesque Pahalgam town in Indian-administered Kashmir on April 22, for which India blamed armed groups which it claimed were backed by Pakistan. Islamabad denied any role in that attack.

Now, the nuclear-armed neighbours stand on the precipice of a full-blown military conflict.

Here is what we know about Indias attack, Pakistans response, and the background of this conflict so far.

Where did India hit Pakistan?

Pakistani military spokesperson Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, in an early morning news conference, said Indian missiles targeted four locations in Punjab and two in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The attack took place at about 1am on Wednesday (20:00 GMT, Tuesday).

The biggest attack was in Ahmedpur Sharqia, near Bahawalpur city in Punjab. According to Chaudhry, a mosque compound was hit and at least five people were killed, including a three-year-old girl.

Other attacks took place in Muridke city, a village near the city of Sialkot, and Shakar Garh, all in Punjab.

Two locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir  Muzaffarabad and Kotli  were also hit, and two mosques were destroyed, according to Pakistani authorities. A 16-year-old girl and an 18-year-old boy were among those killed in the attacks, they said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chaudhry said at least 31 Pakistanis were killed in all and dozens more were injured in the attack.

The Punjab province declared a state of emergency, with hospitals and security forces on high alert, and schools shut on Wednesday.

Interaxctive_Indian_strikes_Pakistan_May7_2025_0348_GMT

How did Pakistan respond?

Soon after the Indian attacks, Pakistans leadership, both political and military, said the country had engaged its defences and its fighter jets were airborne.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a post on the social media platform X, said a reply was being given to India.

Overnight, several claims were made by the Pakistanis, including shooting down up to five Indian jets, including three Rafales, the modern fighter planes which India procured from France in recent years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Besides Chaudhry, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, as well as Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, also claimed on international news outlets that Pakistan had downed multiple Indian jets.

However, Pakistans military also said India had fired all of its missiles from Indian airspace. In other words, if Pakistan shot down Indian planes, it fired at them while they were in Indian airspace.

Indian authorities have yet to comment on the claims or whether all Indian air force planes that participated in the strikes returned securely to their respective bases.

Why did India strike Pakistan?

The latest round of conflict between the two nuclear-armed nations came following the attack in Baisaran valley in the Pahalgam region of Indian-administered Kashmir. Gunmen killed 26 men  25 tourists and a local pony rider  after segregating them from women.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

India has for years blamed Pakistan for supporting, arming and training the armed groups, which it accuses of fomenting trouble in the valley. Pakistan has insisted that it provides only moral and diplomatic support to Kashmirs secessionist movement.

Following the attack last month, India blamed an obscure group, The Resistance Front (TRF), and claimed that it was a Pakistan-backed group with a haven there. Pakistan, while issuing a condemnation, vehemently denied its involvement and demanded a transparent, credible, impartial investigation into the incident.

India, which also targeted Pakistan in 2019 and 2016 following attacks on its troops, said it would retaliate, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying the country would pursue the Kashmir attackers to the ends of the earth.

However, more than two weeks later, Indian soldiers are still combing the forests of Kashmir, searching for the attackers  even as it has now hit targets across the border.

Interactive_Kashmir_Territorial Control_April23_2025

Why is Kashmir important to India and Pakistan?

This is not the first time South Asias two largest countries  which have a combined population of more than 1.6 billion, about one-fifth of the worlds population  have gone to war over the region.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Indeed, the picturesque valley of Kashmir is at the heart of their tensions.

The two neighbours fought three of their four previous wars over Kashmir, spanning 22,200 square kilometres (85,800 square miles). Both countries currently control parts of Kashmir  with China controlling some parts of it  but continue to claim it in full.

How have tensions escalated since the Pahalgam attack?

Since April 22, tensions have escalated, culminating in already limited diplomatic relations taking a further hit.

India has suspended its participation in the Indus Waters Treaty, under which it shares waters from six rivers with Pakistan. Because India is the upper riparian state, it could, in theory, restrict Pakistans access to water to which it is entitled and on which it depends. India also revoked visas for Pakistani nationals.

Pakistan threatened to suspend the Simla Agreement.

Both countries have expelled each others diplomats and nationals, while the nations have also closed their borders and shuttered airspace.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Within Indian-administered Kashmir, authorities have detained more than 2,000 residents, some of them under antiterrorism laws, demolished homes of alleged fighters and imposed strict security measures.

Why did India call it Operation Sindoor?

The Indian military has dubbed its missile strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir Operation Sindoor. That name is significant.

Sindoor is the Hindi word for vermilion, a red pigment which married Hindu women often apply to their forehead. The name of Indias military operation is an apparent reference to the manner in which the attackers shot their victims in Pahalgam on April 22.

Multiple survivor accounts have detailed how the gunmen segregated male tourists from the women, and then pointedly identified those who were non-Muslim before shooting them dead, leaving their Hindu wives widowed. The sindoor is typically no longer worn after a womans husband passes away.
TEL AVIV, Israel (AP)  The war in Gaza may be on the cusp of a new phase after Israel approved plans over the weekend to intensify its operations. Which raises the question: After 19 months of bloodshed and destruction, why is there still no end in sight?

Israel and Hamas appear to only be growing further apart. Israel unleashed fierce strikes in March, shattering a truce that had freed hostages and sent in badly needed aid. Israels new plans include seizing the strip, forcibly displacing hundreds of thousands of Palestinians and asserting greater control over the distribution of aid in the territory, according to Israeli officials.

Mounting Israeli public support for an end to the war has not swayed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from his stance that Hamas must be destroyed first. The military pressure, vast destruction in Gaza and rising death toll have so far not budged Hamas from its position demanding an end to the war and a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Here is a deeper look at why an end to the war has been so elusive.

Israel says it wont stop until Hamas is defeated

The war began on Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel, killing 1,200 and taking 251 hostages. Israel's massive retaliation has killed over 52,000 people in Gaza, according to local health authorities, whose count does not differentiate between militants and civilians.

The Hamas attack upended Israels longstanding security doctrine. For years, Israel weathered threats along its borders, launching periodic operations to contain them. Hamas surprise assault broke that cycle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Israel says it is no longer willing to accept a reality where such an attack can reoccur. It has gone to great lengths to reshape the region according to that new doctrine.

Israeli forces have seized areas in Lebanon and Syria and cracked down in the West Bank, displacing tens of thousands. In Gaza, they intend to remain in the territory in a bid to eliminate Hamas ability to regroup.

Israel shows no sign of relenting, despite war crimes accusations at international courts.

Experts say Hamas no longer has the capacity to stage an Oct 7.-style attack  yet it cannot be easily stamped out, either.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The drive to dismantle Hamas' military and governing capabilities by force has so far proven incompatible with Israel's other war aim: freeing hostages. The captives' relatives fear any escalation in fighting endangers them.

Hamas agrees to cede political power but not to disarm

Netanyahu has said he is prepared to end the war if Hamas gives up power, disarms and leaves Gaza. But even after that, Israel appears poised to keep troops in corridors carving up Gaza  effectively a new form of occupation.

Hamas has offered to release all hostages in return for a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and an end to the war. It says its willing to cede power in Gaza to other Palestinians but has refused to disarm, offering instead a long-term truce with Israel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Netanyahu has rejected the notion of Gaza being run by the more moderate Palestinian Authority, but has offered no concrete alternative. He opposes statehood for Palestinians in Gaza or the West Bank.

Opinion polls consistently show that only a minority of Palestinians support Hamas, and there have been some protests inside Gaza against Hamas and the war. Still, many Palestinians see armed resistance as the only path to statehood because negotiations and forms of nonviolent resistance have largely failed.

Founded in the late 1980s, the Islamic militant group  which does not accept Israels existence  is deeply rooted in Palestinian society, with an armed wing, a political party, media and charities. Over 18 years of rule in Gaza, it built a network of underground tunnels, rocket launchers, and weapons caches  some of which remains intact despite Israels campaign.

Critics say Netanyahu's drive to continue the war is politically motivated

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Two far-right parties who prop up Netanyahu's governing coalition hold the key to his political survival. They have threatened to topple the government if the war ends with Hamas intact. One party briefly quit the coalition over a recent ceasefire deal, only to return when fighting resumed.

If both leave, it could bring down the government and trigger early elections. Public opinion polls throughout the war have consistently shown that Netanyahu would struggle to form a coalition government in new elections, endangering his nearly uninterrupted 16-year rule.

Part of that decline in support is because many Israelis oppose his government's insistence on continuing the war and want him to secure a deal freeing the remaining 59 hostages, roughly 24 of whom are believed to be alive. Many say Netanyahu should accept responsibility for his role in failing to prevent Hamas' Oct. 7 attack and resign, either now or after the war.

Public pressure is also mounting for an independent inquiry into the security failures of Oct. 7, which Netanyahu has refused to launch while the war continues. Any findings could be politically damaging to Netanyahu, who insists hell face scrutiny, but only after the war.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

His leadership has also been dogged by a series of scandals in his office as well as fierce public criticism against his moves to fire top security and legal officials, whom many Israelis view as an important check on executive power. He is also on trial for corruption for charges he denies.

The Trump factor

Despite Netanyahu's political woes, Israel enjoys the support of U.S. President Donald Trump, who blames Hamas for the fighting and the misery the war has caused to Palestinian civilians.

During the Biden administration, Israel faced some pushback from U.S. officials over what they saw as undue harm to civilians and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While Trump says he wants an end to the war, he has so far given Israel free rein as it relaunched its military campaign in March and imposed a blockade on Gaza, barring all food, water, medicine and fuel and deepening a humanitarian crisis.

On Monday, Trump blamed Hamas for the aid crisis in Gaza, saying the group was taking everything thats being brought in, echoing Israel's accusations, which aid groups have disputed.

Trump has also floated a plan to take over Gaza and relocate its population, an idea once limited to the fringes of Israeli political discourse that Netanyahu has now embraced and said Israel will try to implement.

___

Follow APs war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war
India launched military strikes against Pakistan on Wednesday, putting the two nuclear-armed neighbours on the brink of conflict.

The two countries also exchanged heavy artillery fire along their contested frontier in Kashmir, and Pakistan said that it had authorised its military to retaliate.

At least 34 deaths were reported, with Islamabad saying 26 civilians were killed by the Indian strikes and firing along the border, and New Delhi adding at least eight dead from Pakistani shelling.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The exchanges represent the worst violence in the region in two decades. But how did we get here?

Demonstrators burn a banner with a picture of Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi during an anti-India protest in Hyderabad in the Sindh province of Pakistan - HUSNAIN ALI/Getty

Why did India attack Pakistan?

India had been widely expected to launch military strikes ever since an April 22 attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir.

The attack was carried out by gunmen that India claimed were from the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist group.

The assault in the tourist hotspot of Pahalgam killed 26 people, mainly Hindu men.

For Delhi, the massacre was the latest in a string of attacks blamed on Pakistan-based terrorist groups and after the strikes it said justice is served.

Pakistan denies any involvement in the attack and says the militant violence in Kashmir is home grown,

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

India also launched retaliatory military strikes in 2019 after 40 paramilitary soldiers were killed in the Pulwama bombing.

But the roots of the conflict date back far beyond that.

When did the conflict start and who does Kashmir belong to?

The stunning Himalayan region of Kashmir has been at the heart of animosity between Pakistan and India since the Partition in 1947 and continues to poison their relations.

The area has been the trigger for two of their three wars and has been the cause of showdowns raising fears of nuclear conflict.

When British rule ended on the sub continent, the princely state of Kashmir had the choice of whether to accede to India or Pakistan. Maharaja Hari Singh was Hindu while most of his subjects were Muslim. Hoping to remain independent, he chose to remain neutral. His hand, however, was forced by events.

Members of the Pakistan Central Muslim League take part in an anti-India demonstration in Peshawar - ABDUL MAJEED/Getty

When Pakistan-backed Pashtun tribesmen invaded and his Muslim subjects rose up along the western borders of his state, the Maharaja appealed for Delhis assistance and acceded to India.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thus began the first war over the territory between the neighbours, ending in 1949 with a UN-brokered ceasefire and the division of the territory by a heavily militarised line of control which still stands. Both sides lay claim to the entire territory, but rule it in part.

Fighting flared again in the 1965 and 1971, but the Simla Agreement then saw the enemies vow to settle their difference peacefully.

Each side of the frontier is heavily militarised. In the Indian-administered side, Delhi has kept a strong military presence and there has been a persistent insurgency since the late 1980s. Delhi blames Pakistan for stoking and supporting the insurgency.

Do India and Pakistan have nuclear weapons?

Decades of confrontation between the arch rivals and several conflicts have fed a lengthy arms race, and each nation has developed nuclear weapons. India conducted its first nuclear test in 1974 and Pakistan became a nuclear power in 1998.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Delhi has said its nuclear arsenal is also to deter its other large nuclear-armed neighbour China.

India has never declared the size of its nuclear armament. One assessment places the countrys stockpile at 160 nuclear warheads, according to the Centre for Arms Control and Nuclear Proliferation. Nuclear weapons include land-based ballistic missiles, submarine-launched ballistic missiles and aircraft with nuclear bombs and missiles.

Pakistan is estimated to have around 170 warheads and has nuclear-capable ballistic missiles of varying ranges and can also launch the weapons from planes. In 2017, the country test-fired a submarine-launched missile, though this is not yet thought to be ready to use.

Even a small nuclear exchange between India and Pakistan could kill 20 million people in a week, according to the Centre for Arms Control and Nuclear Proliferation.

How big are India and Pakistans armies?

As the worlds most populous nation, India has one of the planets largest armies, numbering around 1.2m active soldiers and some 900,000 reservists. The army also has more than 3,000 tanks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pakistans population is a fifth the size of Indias but paranoia about being overrun by its larger neighbour has seen the country has over decades become heavily militarised. The military also exerts significant control over the civilian government, with the head of the army widely seen as the most powerful man in the country.

Pakistans army comprises around 560,000 active soldiers and 280,000 paramilitaries. The country is thought to have around 2,500 tanks.

The armies have long faced off against each other. However in recent decades, Pakistan has redeployed troops to deal with insurgencies in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces, while India has increasingly focused on the threat from China to the east.

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.
We recently published a list of Billionaire John Paulsons 10 Stocks with Huge Upside Potential. In this article, we are going to take a look at where International Tower Hill Mines Ltd. (NYSEAMERICAN:THM) stands against other stocks with huge upside potential.

John Alfred Paulson is an American billionaire hedge fund manager who founded Paulson & Co. in 1994. It is a New York-based fund management firm that specializes in private equity and hedge funds. Paulson graduated as valedictorian of his class with a summa cum laude distinction in finance from NYUs College of Business and Public Administration in 1978. He also pursued an MBA at Harvard Business School as a George F. Baker Scholar, which is a prestigious recognition awarded to the top 5% of his class. Its supported by the Sidney J. Weinberg/Goldman Sachs scholarship, which he earned in 1980. With a client base of 20, the firms latest 13F filing for Q4 2024 revealed ~$1.65 billion in managed 13F securities and a top 10 holdings concentration of 98.55%.

The firm is known for its expertise in event-driven arbitrage strategies, such as merger arbitrage, bankruptcy reorganizations, and other corporate events. Paulson & Co. also pursues investments in distressed debt opportunities throughout the US and Western Europe, with the help of its strategic insights and extensive market experience. John Paulson is now also bullish on gold after 15 years and expects its price to reach ~$5,000 per ounce by 2028. He is the largest shareholder in Perpetua Resources. On April 29, Reuters reported that in a recent interview, Paulson reinforced that his conviction in gold is underpinned by the analysis of central bank buying trends and rising global trade tensions. He highlighted the inclination of central banks and individuals to seek stable stores of value now and suggested that gold will therefore enhance its global standing. Paulson believes that the Western confiscation of Russias foreign reserve holdings following the Ukraine invasion is one of the reasons behind the anticipated appreciation of gold prices.

Our Methodology

To compile the list of billionaire John Paulsons 10 stocks with huge upside potential, we sifted through Q4 2024 13F filings of Paulson & Co. from Insider Monkey. From these filings, we checked each stocks upside potential from CNN and ranked the stocks in ascending order of this upside potential. We have also added Paulson & Co.s stake in each company and the hedge fund sentiment around each stock.

Note: All data was sourced on May 2.

Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletters strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 373.4% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 218 percentage points (see more details here).
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jason Esteves recently voiced support for the growing Target boycott, as he and other state Democratic Party leaders continue working to mend fences with Black Georgia voters.

My wife has had a [Target Circle 360] subscription, and she canceled it as a result, Esteves said during an April phone interview with Capital B Atlanta. I support Georgians having the right to vote with their wallets.

The 41-year-old two-term state senator representing West Atlanta became the first Democrat to officially throw his hat in the 2026 gubernatorial race on April 21, as the party historically supported by the overwhelming majority of Black Georgians works to rebuild the diverse coalition that turned the state blue in 2020 for the first time in 28 years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Esteves said lowering the cost of living in Georgia  especially housing, which remains a major pain point for Black voters  is his top political priority.

I will make sure that this is at the forefront, Esteves said regarding escalating housing costs. No matter where you go across the state, people are talking about how expensive it is to live in this state, how expensive it is to rent, and how expensive it is to buy a home.

Esteves plan to lower housing costs includes advocating for a new state law that would bar or limit private equity firms from buying up single-family homes in Georgia, a practice experts say has contributed to the extraction of wealth in metro Atlantas Black community and driven up the overall cost of home purchases by limiting the supply of houses available for sale.

The senator supported related legislation in the Georgia General Assembly this year that ultimately stalled in the Senate chamber.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Democratic hopeful acknowledged Republicans in the state legislature, who have spent years preventing related bills from advancing, may be a roadblock to his proposed housing policy, but he said he can overcome them if hes elected governor.

When theres a priority the governor has, it tends to move a lot more, Esteves said. I will do everything that I can to lower costs for Georgia families, especially those related to housing. And we do that by prioritizing it.

Incumbent GOP Gov. Brian Kemp has backed other possible solutions to the states affordable housing crisis, including a Rural Workforce Housing Initiative that his office says has allocated more than $42 million in infrastructure grants to 21 rural Georgia regions.

An overwhelming majority of these grants have been awarded to communities whose population is predominantly made up of Black Georgians, Kemp press secretary Garrison Douglas told Capital B Atlanta via email in March.

Who is Jason Esteves?

Georgia gubernatorial candidate Jason Esteves is pictured with his wife, Ariel, and their two children, Zoe and Jaeden. (Courtesy of Jason Esteves campaign)

Esteves is a Columbus native living in northwest Atlanta who previously worked as a middle school social studies teacher and later an attorney, serving as a vice president of legal and assistant general counsel with Equifax and as an associate with McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He served on the Atlanta Public Schools Board of Education from 2013 to 2022 before resigning to run for the state Senate. He holds a bachelors degree in psychology from the University of Miami and a law degree from Emory University.

Hes also a father of two and an entrepreneur who co-owns two Flying Biscuit Cafe locations and a West Atlanta urgent care clinic called WestsideMed with his wife, Ariel.

If elected, the senator, who has Black and Puerto Rican heritage, would become the first Afro-Latino to serve as Georgias chief executive, a milestone he hopes will blaze a trail for others.

While I may be the first Black and Latino governor, I certainly will not be the last, Esteves said. This campaign is about the people of Georgia. They deserve so much better than they are getting from state leadership today. I launched this campaign because I know we can build a coalition to win.

Rallying the base

Any Democrat looking to win a statewide office race next year has work to do energizing Black voters, whose turnout rate last November was slightly lower than it was four years prior.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Esteves and other state Democratic leaders  including newly elected state party chair Charlie Bailey and U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff, who is up for reelection next year  are working to turn Georgia blue once more. He acknowledged some Democratic supporters have soured on politics in recent years, but argued Black folks may be the ones hurting the most as a result of the November election.

My message to the Black community is that we are the ones that have to save ourselves, and we do that by building a better and brighter Georgia for the future, one where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of who you are or where youre from, Esteves said. We do that by building a coalition that will elect the next governor.

How the race is shaping up

Esteves early start on the campaign trail may be his attempt to gain a leg up on what looks to be a crowded field of Democratic candidates. Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms recently filed paperwork ahead of an anticipated gubernatorial run. Two-time candidate Stacey Abrams is considering a third try. And former DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond has also expressed interest in the race, along with state Rep. Derrick Jackson, D-Tyrone.

Attorney General Chris Carr is the only Republican who has officially entered the race so far, but Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, a Trump loyalist involved in the presidents 2020 fake electors scheme who state prosecutors ultimately chose not to charge, is also expected to launch a bid to replace Kemp, who is term-limited from seeking the office again. (Kemp recently said he wont run for U.S. Senate against Ossoff as many political observers had expected.)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Esteves recently earned endorsements from fellow Democratic state Sens. Harold Jones of Augusta and Kim Jackson of Stone Mountain, who said theyve watched him lead the way on policy issues like expanding health care access, lowering housing costs, and investing in public schools.

Esteves acknowledged he may not be as famous as the other rumored Democratic candidates, but he said hes working hard to change that between now and next year.

My wife and I are doing the work thats necessary to build that coalition across the state, and we look forward to traveling across the state to hear directly from Georgia families about the issues that matter to them the most, he said.

The post Why Jason Esteves Puts Georgias Housing Crisis at the Center of the Governors Race appeared first on Capital B News - Atlanta.
Joe Biden wanted to use the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War as the moment to return to the political spotlight.

It explains why the former president chose a British broadcaster for his first big interview since leaving office, as well as the timing, a smidge before Victory in Europe day, and it accounted for at least part of his message about the dangers of appeasing Vladimir Putin.

But it also reveals a crucial truth about Mr Biden, 82, and his life in politics, and acts as the opening shots in the battle over his legacy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While many former presidents keep their heads down after leaving power out of deference for the office they once held, Mr Bidens outspoken condemnation of Donald Trump comes less than four months after he returned to civilian life.

And it gives him a chance to marshal his arguments ahead of a blockbuster account of the final days of his presidency, which is due to be published in less than two weeks time.

Original sin: president Bidens decline, its cover-up, and his disastrous choice to run again, is written by CNN anchor Jake Tapper and Axios correspondent Alex Thompson.

It promises a slew of headlines about who knew what and when about Mr Bidens frailty.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What you will learn makes president Bidens decision to run for re-election seem shockingly narcissistic, self-delusional, and reckless  a desperate bet that went bust  and part of a larger act of extended public deception that has few precedents, Penguin said in a press release.

Mr Biden dropped out of the 2024 race a month after his disastrous TV debate appearance - ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS

For at least one day, Mr Biden led the news with his prebuttals.

He said he didnt think it would have mattered if he had walked away from re-election earlier. Kamala Harris was a good candidate who was fully funded, he said.

Democrats who have had to pick up the pieces of a disastrous election, losing not just the White House but control of Congress, are furious.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They see a tragic irony in his quick return to the limelight.

Its an illustration of the issues that led to last years Democratic debacle where Biden didnt know when enough was enough, said Brett Bruen, who worked for the Obama White House.

He didnt recognise the need to pass the baton, and even after everything thats transpired, he still seems to not understand the role that most of us would like him to play.

In other words, to disappear and not give Mr Trump a target.

Credit: BBC Radio 4 Today

Barack Obama, by contrast, took almost 18 months to open fire on the crazy stuff coming out of the Trump White House in 2018.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mr Biden is just getting started it seems. He is set to sit down with his wife Jill on Thursday for an interview on The View, ABCs daytime show.

In the meantime, Americans have started to look back more fondly on Mr Bidens time in office.

As Mr Trumps tariffs trigger global uncertainty and turmoil in the markets, polls show that the economic blame game has flipped.

Where the Republican candidate last year beat the Democratic incumbent on questions about who was best placed to manage the economy, a Gallup Poll to mark Mr Trumps first 100 days in office showed that almost half of adults blamed him for current financial woes, while only 27 per cent blamed Mr Biden.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Brad Bannon, a Democratic strategist, said the former president should have waited at least six months to re-emerge and remind voters of just what they had rejected in November. Joe Bidens timing is bad, he said. It was bad last year, it is bad this year.

His late departure from last years race and his early return to the fray this year are rooted in the same feature of Mr Bidens life.

He won election to the Senate at the age of 30 before spending half a century in politics. He sniffed around pretty much every open Democratic presidential primary since 1988 and he finally got the top job at the age of 78.

His plan to be a transitional president, giving way to a younger candidate after one term, was quickly shelved.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The political life is the only one he knows. And it is no surprise that he has returned to the fray so quickly.

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.
Seeds of the camelina plant produce oil that could form the backbone of a sustainable aviation fuel economy in Minnesota. (Getty Images)

Sustainable aviation fuel is having a moment in Minnesota.

Lawmakers are considering a broad expansion of tax credits for producers of the fuels, in hope of positioning Minnesota as a leading manufacturer.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency recently awarded a grant to the University of Minnesota to study a new oil-producing field crop that holds promise as a chief component of the fuel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And last fall, a fuel company announced a $5 billion investment in a production facility in Moorhead thats expected to go online in 2030.

Like other types of lower-carbon fuels, including corn ethanol, sustainable aviation fuel has attracted its share of critics concerned about slapping a green label on products and practices that continue to pump carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, as well as farm pollutants into the ground and water.

But from an environmental perspective, air travel is a different, much dirtier beast than vehicle transit. Its responsible for about 2.5% of total global carbon emissions. And the opportunity to shrink the carbon footprint of the airline industry has drawn support even from environmental groups that have been critical of the push for corn ethanol.

A comprehensive switch from traditional jet fuel to sustainable fuels could reduce total air transit emissions by 70% or more.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Aviation is really hard to decarbonize, said Trevor Russell, water program director of the Friends of the Mississippi River. The best first thing we can do is bend the carbon intensity curve of the fuels we are currently using.

The problem with ethanol

Ethanol derived from corn and other types of biomass has been promoted as a greener alternative to traditional fossil fuels, and over the past several decades state and federal lawmakers have enacted subsidies to support the farmers who grow the crops as well as the fuel companies mixing and refining the final product.

While the resulting fuel is less carbon-intensive than fossil gasoline, many researchers have argued that when you factor in the increased agricultural land use as well as the processing costs, it may actually produce even more carbon dioxide in the long run.

As a result, many advocates believe that its better to encourage a shift to fully-electric cars than to promote half-measures like ethanol.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The situation in aviation is different, however. Batteries are heavy, meaning theres no realistic path to fully electric flight in the near term, especially not on longer routes. And air travel is incredibly carbon intensive, meaning that even modest changes to efficiency would yield major carbon benefits.

A half-measure like less carbon-intensive fuel, in other words, might be the best near-term option for the industry.

A better jet fuel

Sustainable aviation fuel boosters in Minnesota are particularly excited about using winter cover crops, like camelina and pennycress, as sources of biofuel. Planting them as cover crops on existing fields doesnt require tilling additional land and would provide farmers with an additional revenue stream that doesnt interrupt their regular crop rotations.

They can share the same acres  they grow in the fall and are harvested in the spring, Russell said. You get all of the environmental benefits of cover crops, but producers can actually harvest and sell that cover crop as a sustainable aviation feedstock.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Preliminary research suggests that camelina-based jet fuel could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 75%. But whether those gains could fully scale up to an industry-wide solution remains an open question. Hence, the need for tax credits.

In 2023, lawmakers passed a credit of $1.50 per gallon for producers and blenders of sustainable aviation fuel. In his 2025 budget, Gov. Tim Walz called for allocation of an additional $20 million toward the credits over the next decade. Lawmakers are currently negotiating final numbers in the ongoing budget discussions.

While support for sustainable aviation fuel is generally bipartisan, not everyone at the Capitol is sold on it. Rep. Rick Hansen, DFL-South St. Paul, said the effort to expand tax credits for sustainable aviation fuel is greenwashing an existing production system that has serious environmental and community impacts.

He added that we should be prioritizing tax breaks for people, like renters and first time homebuyers, rather than corporations producing sustainable aviation fuel, which isnt actually sustainable.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Many skeptics of sustainable aviation fuel believe that boosters emission reduction estimates arent accurate, and that policymakers should emphasize alternative transit options like high-speed rail.

Advocates for the fuel, including Friends of the Mississippi River, the Nature Conservancy and Fresh Energy, have published a set of what they call guiding principles to ensure that any new fuels live up to their green promises. Those guidelines call for policies to measure lifecycle emissions properly; ensure no new cropland gets created; minimize impacts on water and air quality; and position winter cover crops like camelina, rather than corn or other sources of biomass, as the preferred feedstocks.

There are some concerns with over-relying on summer annual or traditional biofuel feedstocks, Russell said. Those crops would be lower carbon but would not meet anyones definition of sustainable.

Minnesotas first camelina crops were planted in 2021, and producers plan to scale up to about 5,000 acres this year, according to the MPCA.

Advocates hope to push production up to 1 million acres by 2035.
Many nonprofits are in no position to turn away any federal funding, let alone $1.2 million of it, but Advocates for Youth decided to do just that after Donald Trump became president again.

Established in 1980 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., the organization works with youth leaders and their adult allies to help young people protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV and unintended pregnancy. Much of the nonprofits outreach targets queer youth and youth of color, communities that it would be difficult to continue serving directly while adhering to the Trump administrations executive orders related to race and gender, according to Debra Hauser, the groups president.

We terminated the federal grants because, honestly, we cant work under the restrictions and censorship thats required by this administration, Hauser said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This marks the first time in its history that Advocates for Youth will end its partnerships with the federal government. Through those partnerships, the organization provided support and training to educators across hundreds of school districts. The leadership of Advocates for Youth felt it was important to distance itself from the Trump administration to send a message to the youth it serves: Our goal was really to say to young people that we see them, were here for them, and were not going to abandon them, Hauser said.

The Trump administrations executive orders threatening to withhold federal funding from government agencies or organizations that support diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) or gender ideology  a term used to hit back at protections for transgender Americans  are not grounded in best practices, Hauser contends. Rather, they sacrifice young peoples health and wellbeing for political expediency.

They arent based on research and what works best to help young people, she said. So, we felt it was important to take a stand, and we really just cant do our work effectively under these kinds of conditions.

She said Advocates for Youth was told that it cant concentrate its efforts on how racism, homophobia or transphobia influence health disparities among young people. That restriction would hinder the organization from running public health campaigns to reach the youth most affected by these disparities. It had one federal grant, for example, focused on HIV prevention education for Black and Latino young people.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If we cant talk about race or homophobia, how do we do that? Hauser asked. If we cant target our materials to those specific populations, its almost impossible. And, quite frankly, young people deserve better. They deserve to see themselves reflected in public health campaigns that are meant to help them.

Louie Ortiz-Fonseca, director of LGBTQ Health and Rights at Advocates for Youth, said that the organization had many conversations about rejecting federal funding since HIV equity is threaded through all of its work.

Im a person living with HIV, and we work with other young Black and Latinx people who are either living with HIV or are affected by it because someone in their life has it, they said. Theyre just surviving stigma from day-to-day, moment-to-moment, and our work is to really center those young people and those experiences, those who are experiencing the most fierce HIV stigma as it relates to all parts of their life  the people that they date, the people that they love, how they access prevention, care and treatment.

While Ortiz-Fonseca said he celebrates Advocates for Youths decision to reject federal funding, he does not begrudge other nonprofits for continuing to accept it because they may have different levels of resources that limit their options. Advocates for Youth is able to continue operating in the wake of its decision because most of its contributions come from philanthropic and individual donations. He hopes that nonprofit organizations can mutually support each other during this time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The goal is to put a stop to this epidemic, hopefully end HIV stigma and create a world that is equitable and that celebrates all young people and those living with HIV and AIDS, they said. In April, The 19th reported on the National Institutes of Health slashing funding for hundreds of research grants on HIV and AIDS.

Advocates for Youth is also concerned about the administrations targeted attacks on transgender young people. Hauser called its anti-trans agenda despicable, since trans youth have some of the highest health disparities of any group of young people and disproportionately experience school bullying and violence. Because many people lack a fundamental understanding of gender identity, she said, politicians have found the issue convenient to weaponize.

As a consequence, 72 percent have tell told us through Centers for Disease Control surveys that they experience prolonged periods of hopelessness and sadness, and they are more likely to have attempted suicide than their cisgender peers, Hauser said of transgender youth. To demonize this group of young people creates fear and divides us.

The idea that women and girls should be afraid of their transgender counterparts damages the health and wellbeing of trans youth and harms the general school population, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When schools have programs that support gay youth and trans youth, particularly anti-bullying programs, not only do those young people experience reductions in bullying and violence, but so does the entire school, Hauser said. So these programs arent divisive. In fact, they teach young people to value and recognize diversity.

Unbound by federal funding restrictions, Advocates for Youth will continue to run campaigns for young people about healthy relationships and HIV and STI prevention. The organization will also work to create safe and affirming spaces in schools and communities for trans and gender expansive young people.

This is work that we feel is essential to do, and when we are able to support some of our most vulnerable youth, it benefits all of our young people, Hauser said. We feel very strongly that the executive orders and the rhetoric coming out of this administration is an assault on young peoples health and rights, and its based in politics.

The post Why this nonprofit made a $1.2 million decision to reject federal funding under Trump appeared first on The 19th.

News that represents you, in your inbox every weekday. Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter.
The procession of the Sacred College of Cardinals file into the Sistine Chapel to begin the conclave to elect a successor to Pope John Paul I on October 14, 1978. Credit - Bettmann ArchiveGetty Images

Today, the papal conclave convened and it is going to captivate the attention of the world for however long it lasts.

The fascination stems from the rarity, mystique, drama, and importance of conclaves, as well as the secrecy that governs them. Each conclave is by its nature a mixture of rumors, intrigue, and disinformation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Observers understand the basic mechanics of the conclave: Cardinals will have informal meetings in the corridors, during meals, and in the chambers. Their goal will be to form a large enough coalition to secure the requisite 75% of the votes necessary to elect a pope. In the event of one coalition failing, its members may move to support another candidate as a bloc, or they could splinter and back different choices. Seen from the outside, the duration of the conclave can provide hints as to the difficulty or the ease with which the cardinals reach an agreement to appoint the next head of the Church.

But no one really knows whats going on inside the conclaveand everyone wants information. So much so that, in the past, spies have assessed the dynamics at play, both before and during conclaves. Theyve gained valuable information about the most likely candidates and their support, which gives their governments a sense of how the conclave might turn out. These efforts reflect how countries across the globe see the Vatican as an important world power.

This history suggests that intelligence operatives around the world might be scurrying to glean any information they can. The Vaticans security service assuredly has worked to prevent leaks. Yet, no system is foolproof. Even so, the nature of the conclave means that intelligence agencies still face a steep challenge in trying to give their governments a leg up in knowing the identity of the next Pope.

In theory, a conclave is a secret election: the cardinals gather together in closed quarters, without any assistants or any way of communicating with the outside world. In fact, its so buttoned-up that, since 1800, the ballot papers used in voting, as well as any notes taken during the assembly are burnt.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Yet, many are desperate to get any crumb of information possible about who will be the next pope. Due to the extraordinary powers of the Supreme Pontiff, the stakes are high. Thanks to the very particular, unique status of the Vatican, the Pope runs a sovereign micro-state, while also leading one of the worlds largest religious communities with some 1.3 billion members. Fairly or unfairly, popes are often credited with an outsized influence over the way the world is managed.

Read More: History Suggests Expecting the Unexpected From the Papal Conclave

This power has long drawn the interest of intelligence operatives across the globe, who have devoted considerable time and resources to spying on the microscopic Vaticanespecially when it comes time to select a new Pope.

In the first half of the 20th Century, European powers commonly worked to influence the conclave ballots through their prelates and ambassadors. In return, the most political potential candidates made sure to curry favor with governments across the ideological spectrum. During the 1939 conclave, for example, the cardinals easily elected Eugenio Pacelli despite the simmering tensions engulfing Europe as it headed toward World War II. Pacelli offered a little something to all factions: he was Italian, spoke German, and had negotiated concordats with Italy and Germany, abstaining from condemning either regime. Meanwhile, he was also a notorious anti-communist, which had endeared him to his anti-Nazi predecessor Pius XI, and also enabled him to successfully engender trust from the British and the French.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The next four conclaves took place during the Cold War, which, given the global nature of the struggle between the U.S. and the Soviet Union, the sky-high stakes, and the power of the Vatican, drew the attention of both superpowers. Their intelligence operatives scrambled to keep their governments appraised of what might happen, and what the new Popes diplomatic posture might be.

When Pope John XXIII died in June 1963, the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) sent a memo to President John F. Kennedy outlining what might happen. It explained that it was even harder than usual to predict the conclave outcome, because the college of cardinals had grown from 55 members in 1958, the last time a conclave had taken place, to 82. Many of the cardinals were new to their role, and it was much harder to identify their ideology than it had been in 1958 when, as the CIA explained, the cardinals fell into three major groups: Liberal, Conservative, or Moderate. The memo further noted that John XXIII had named 44 cardinals, some of whom were far from being in the Liberal group.

The memo concluded that Cardinal Giovanni Battista Enrico Antonio Maria Montini, defined in the memo as among the strongly committed Liberals would enter the conclave as the favorite of the masses. And the CIA proved right; his fellow cardinals selected Montini as Pope Paul VI.

The memo judged it unlikely that the cardinals would select a non-Italian pope. And after ruling out candidates older than John, that left only 13 candidates. Of these, several seemed improbable candidates because, in the estimation of the CIA, they are known as definite opponents of Pope Johns policies.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Perhaps, because of intelligence agencies capacity to correctly assess the internal dynamics of the Vatican like this, when Paul VI died 15 years later, the Camerlengothe Cardinal in charge of organizing the transitionwas intent on protecting the conclave from any possible espionage. He asked the director of the Vigilanza (the Vaticans internal security service), to ensure that there would be no microphones.

According to Gordon Thomas and Max Morgan-Witts' 1984 book Pontiff, the Vigilanza discovered that despite their caution, enterprising Radio Vatican journalists desirous of an international scoop engineered an audacious plan: they affixed a small transmitter in the shape of a shirt button on the clothes of a conclave staffer. It couldnt capture voices directly, but it could send signals, like Morse code. The assistant was supposed to tap three times when the Pope was chosen.

After successfully thwarting this scheme, the Vatican security services were on the look out for radio transmitters or microphones during the subsequent four conclaves in August and October 1978, 2005, and 2013. Their efforts largely preserved the secrecy of the first three of these conclaves. But in 2013, like many other European states, the Vatican became a victim of the U.S. National Security Agencys big ears.

Read More: How a New Pope Is Chosenand Who It Could Be

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That year, the Italian weekly, Panorama, stated that the cardinals and even Pope Benedict XVI had been the targets of bugging. The U.S. government formally denied all accusations of spying. A Vatican spokesperson also told journalists that they were not concerned about any reports of spying.

However, Panorama magazine maintained that the NSA picked up the prelates telephone conversations in the days preceding the conclave, giving them an idea of what might happen before the first vote. They likely paid special attention to the man who would become Pope Francis: Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who had been a focus of U.S. intelligence agencies since 2005, according to Wikileaks reports.

Given this history, it could be that, as 135 cardinals gather in Rome to select the next pope, various intelligence organizations are monitoring their activities. Pope Francis appointed 108 of these 135 cardinal electors, all without any experience in the voting process. Assuredly, the Vatican security services have briefed them on how to maintain secrecy in this environment. Since 2005, cell phones have been banned from conclaves; the residence of the cardinals has been thoroughly inspected; and signal jammers will make the place an electronic bunker.

The cardinals also wont see much daylight during the conclave and outdoor conversations will be banned. Relatedly, opaque film will cover the windows of the cardinals residence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Still, such precautions arent foolproof and there may still be leaks. But even if leaks happen, it would remain very difficult to monitor, let alone influence, the interactions of such a large group of people, most of whom dont know each other.

Yet, this may not stop intelligence agencies from trying. The stakes are simply too high, and the Pope has too much influence for governments not to look for a leg up in determining who will win election.

Yvonnick Denoel is the author of Vatican Spies, from the Second World War to Pope Francis, published by Hurst.

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.

Write to Made by History at madebyhistory@time.com.
A pastor in Columbia opposes conversion therapy as "an afront to the fact that everyone is made in the image of God." (Illustration by mustafahacalaki/Getty Images)

As a pastor serving the people of Columbia, I write in full support of the citys 2021 ordinance prohibiting so-called conversion therapy for minors.

It is disappointing to hear that this local law which seeks to protect LGBTQ+ youth from a practice deemed harmful by every major medical and mental health association has recently come under renewed scrutiny.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The South Carolina attorney general has called for its repeal, citing the states 2022 Medical Ethics and Diversity Act (Act 235), a law that expands conscience protections for medical practitioners and limits the authority of municipalities to regulate health care.

We respect that there are differences of opinion and belief when it comes to matters of human sexuality and gender identity. And yet, these differences cannot get in the way of protecting our children when they are being harmed in the name of care.

Let us be clear: The city of Columbias ordinance does not criminalize sermons or compel churches to change their doctrine. It does not bar anyone from preaching what they believe.

Rather, it prohibits licensed professionals from practicing a form of therapy on minors that has been widely condemned as ineffective and psychologically damaging.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I am a pastor who does not believe that being LGBTQ+ is something that needs to be fixed.

Reformation Lutheran Church, like many across South Carolina and the country, do not support conversion therapy.

Conversion therapy is an afront to the fact that everyone is made in the image of God.

Because we are all created in the image of God, because we are all fearfully and wonderfully made by God, government has a duty to protect each and every single person including LGBTQ+ children, who are some of the most vulnerable persons in our society.

The argument made by Attorney General Alan Wilson  that the ordinance is preempted by Act 235  misunderstands both the purpose of the citys law and the needs of the communities it serves.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Act 235 protects the right of medical practitioners not to participate in services that violate their conscience.

Columbias ordinance doesnt compel any provider to offer any particular service; it prohibits one that leading experts agree constitutes a form of psychological harm to minors.

We reject the false narrative that protecting children from trauma violates anyones religious freedom.

Churches remain free to teach, preach, and counsel according to their traditions.

But when harm is being done under the guise of therapy, the city has not only the right but the responsibility to step in.

We urge the Columbia City Council to stand by this ordinance  unamended, undiluted, and unafraid.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Let it be known that in this city, we do not sacrifice the well-being of children to score political points.

Let it be known that Columbia believes LGBTQ+ youth deserve to be seen, respected, and loved as they are.

The question is, will we see our neighbor on the side of the road and take them to the inn and do whatever it takes to restore them and make them whole.

Or will we cross the street to the other side while harm is intentionally done to our children?

Let us know what you think...
The White House is reportedly considering a proposal to give new mothers a $5,000 baby bonus to help encourage Americans to have more children, but economists and social science experts are skeptical that the potential move would work.

The New York Times reported last month that the White House was consulting with policy experts and pronatalist advocates about ways to incentivize American women to have more children. Cash bonuses and Fulbright scholarship allotments are among the ideas under consideration.

Experts told The Hill this week that a few thousand dollars is too low to influence family planning, particularly when the costs of raising a child are far higher.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That amount of money would not be considered meaningful enough by most couples to incentivize them to have kids, said Jennifer Sciubba, president and CEO of Population Reference Bureau.

Vice President Vance and Elon Musk, the influential billionaire adviser to Trump, are both loud voices in the pronatalist movement. Vance told an anti-abortion rally in January that he wanted more babies in the United States of America.

Trump, both during his campaign and in the White House, has called himself the fertilization president. However, he is yet to take any major actions to boost fertility.

The United Statess birth rate has been in decline for decades, falling even more sharply since the Great Recession, reaching a record low in 2023. Roughly 3.5 million babies were born that year in the U.S., marking a 2 percent drop from the year before, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Baby bonuses have been tested in other countries struggling with low birth rates and seeking to boost their populations.

The Quebec government began offering newborn allowances for women in the late 1980s, paying women 500 Canadian dollars for their first child, CA$1,000 for their second and CA$8,000 for a third, according to the Population Reference Bureau.

Spain began offering lump-sum allowances to new mothers in 2007 and stopped in 2010. The South Korean government has tried numerous efforts to boost the countrys low birth rate, including giving mothers a $2,250 baby payment for every newborn.

In 2019, Serbia began offering mothers a one-time payment of $956 for their first child, monthly payments of $96 for their second child for two years, and more payments for three or more kids.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hungary has also tried to push for a baby boom by offering couples an interest-free loan that will be canceled once they have three children.

But while some of these policies resulted in small, temporary bumps in birthrate, none of them have increased the number of children people are having. Instead, what they changed was the time when couples already planning to have children choose to have them.

Nobody says, Oh I need $5,000 so Im going to have a kid, said Stuart Gietel-Basten, professor of social science and public policy at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. Thats not the mental or emotional arithmetic that goes into childbearing.

The median cost for a vaginal birth in the United States is more than $28,000 if the provider is out-of-network and more than $13,000 if the provider is in-network, according to Fair Healths cost of giving birth tracker. And cesarians are even more expensive.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Many couples or single people having a baby do not have to foot the entire bill for the delivery, but most end up spending thousands of dollars out of pocket. Child care in the U.S. is also becoming increasingly expensive.

So, a $5,000 baby bonus might be able to offset some of the expenses of a delivery or a short time away from work, but it is not enough to help with the lifetime of other expenses that come with having a child, experts said.

The median cost of child care in the U.S. in 2022 ranged from $6,552 to $15,600 a year, which translated to between 8.9 percent and 16 percent of a familys income, according to data from the Department of Labor.

A cash bonus, experts added, does not address the other factors that are contributing to low birth rates in high-income countries, like increasing focus on education and careers, concerns over the climate, and changing expectations around parenting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At least 13 percent of adults without children cited concerns over the state of the world as the primary reason for not having them, while 12 percent said they couldnt afford to raise a child, according to a 2024 Pew Research Center survey.

It really is less about the costs in any given year and more about the lifetime costs associated with setting up a life with kids versus not, said Melissa Kearney, economics professor at the University of Maryland and director of the Aspen Institute Economic Strategy Group.

That means the trade-off between career and having kids, or all the things you might want to do with your time versus really intensive parenting, which has become more of the norm.

Democrats in Congress have also been highly critical of the proposal, suggesting the administration should instead back a child tax credit, which would provide ongoing financial relief to families.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you want to encourage families to have children and be serious about it, then you would work to lower costs, build economic security for families, Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) told NBC 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 The Hill.
The News

The UAE will overhaul its education system for the artificial intelligence age, becoming one of the first nations in the world to mandate AI learning as it looks to harness the technology to improve outcomes and combat disengagement in classrooms, its education minister said.

AI will be taught in all public and some private schools at the start of the next academic year in the fall  reaching as many as 400,000 students  with around 20 lessons initially planned for each grade year, from Kindergarten through Grade 12, Sarah Al Amiri told Semafor in an interview.

The strategy calls for students to design their own AI systems while learning about bias and algorithms; explore ethical use and issues of plagiarism; and practice prompt engineering with real-world scenarios. Lessons range in complexity from early learners discussing what robots are and how they might be useful in daily life, to developing machine learning algorithms in later years.

Know More

Al Amiri, who became the UAEs Education Minister last year and previously served as the Minister of Advanced Technology, emphasized the curriculum is not final, and that the countrys education regulator would annually evaluate students progress and the relevance of lessons.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The effort is part of broader reforms to introduce AI tools in the national education system, including using AI to deliver personalized education and to improve operations. Two of the UAEs largest AI firms, G42 and AI71, are developing products for the new curriculum.

[Students] felt like there was a big gap in what they were interested in and what they were being taught, Al Amiri said. When you spoke to them, they had a lot of information, a lot of interests, and a lot of aspirations. But when you see them in the classroom, theres a glimmer or a sort of passion thats not there. And I realized very early on that theyre disengaged.

Kelseys view

One of my first questions was about screen time, a topic thats top of mind for any parent who has ingested the data from Jonathan Haidts bestseller and resolved to maybe allow their kid a smartphone when they turn 18 (maybe). Will adding AI tools and lessons into classrooms lead to a spiraling of time in front of a screen?

Al Amiri said that even with the new curriculum, no student would be given a screen to learn from until the fifth grade, when they are around 10. The number of lessons focused on AI have also been intentionally capped to minimize additional computer use. But the use of technology in schools is unavoidable, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Social media is a fact. The [use of] AI is a fact, Al Amiri said, adding that the education system had failed students in adapting to the advent of social media. The new curriculum is meant to correct for some of these systemic failures, she said, and reengage students. I want it to be fun for them, she said.

Room for Disagreement

Arguments against broad adoption of AI are starting to emerge. In an upcoming book, The AI Con: How to Fight Big Techs Hype and Create the Future We Want, American researchers Emily Bender and Alex Hanna argue the industry is overhyped, insisting that the paradigm shift many predict from AI is not inevitable as Silicon Valley evangelists claim. Their recommendation is to refuse to use AI services altogether.

The View From South Korea

South Korea began introducing digital textbooks, which personalize teaching materials to a students performance in real time, in March, covering English, math, and Korean for special education. The plan is to expand to additional subjects like social studies and science, with the smart textbooks in all schools by 2028.

Notable

Saudi Arabia has launched an Introduction to AI course for high schoolers, Gulf News reported.

US President Donald Trump signed an executive action to boost AI education and workforce training last month, Bloomberg reported.

Correction
A Texas House committee is proposing to eliminate several controversial measures targeting higher education from a Senate-approved bill that seeks to remove university faculty from shared governance and hiring decisions, while restricting required coursework for students.

As the Texas House Higher Education Committee took up Senate Bill 37 late Tuesday, with discussions stretching into early Wednesday, dozens of professors and students sat in stiff chairs urging lawmakers to reject the legislation.

The central debate between the bill's proponents and opponents focused on a key question: When does education shift into indoctrination, and does higher education in Texas require more regulation?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The House's version of SB 37, presented by Republican state Rep. Matt Shaheen of Plano, made significant changes to the Senate's proposal, notably keeping final authority on academic degrees and curriculum with universities. The Senate's version grants that authority to university boards of regents, which are political appointments. Shaheen said he met with university leaders three times before introducing his revisions, and many who testified before the committee thanked him for the changes.

A lot of the changes that they requested are in this bill, Shaheen said about university leaders.

The House version also restricted university system regents' hiring authority to presidents, vice presidents and deans. Texas A&M University System General Counsel Ray Bonilla testified that this revision would reduce the boards' legal liability for employment decisions. The House panel also cut the Senate-outlined process for ending degree programs with certain levels of associated debt, softening language to direct presidents to review programs and minors for low enrollment that "may require consolidation or elimination."

Most processes now are "at the institutional level," Shaheen said in allaying fears about political appointees  such as boards of regents that are appointed by the governor  overruling decisions made by faculty experts. The bill, however, kept in place the regents' "ultimate authority" over nearly all decisions, including on whether to allow faculty senates to exist at an institution and to annually review leaders who oversee curriculum.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite the House changes, professors, students and higher education advocates who testified against the bill argued that any version of SB 37 would crush institutions' ability to foster productive faculty governance and education.

SB 37 states that a university's core curriculum cannot advocate or promote the idea that any race, sex, or ethnicity or any religious belief is inherently superior to any other race, sex, or ethnicity or any other religious belief," and it creates a new Office of Ombudsman to investigate public accusations that a school's curriculum isn't following SB 37 or an anti-diversity, equity and inclusion bill that lawmakers passed in 2023. Professors from disciplines including medicine, history, social work, music and art testified that the bill would restrict their ability to address topics such as diversity, racial disparities or history.

"In the past, I have not shied away from exploring difficult aspects of American history, including racial segregation and Japanese internment. This would no longer be possible if SB 37 passes," said Lauren Gutterman, who testified as an individual but spoke from her experience as a UT associate professor who teaches history classes that count toward core requirements.

"How could I talk openly about history of immigration or LGBTQ rights movement when I know what could happen?" she asked.

'Pigeonholed': Why some lawmakers, students are backing Texas SB 37

Sen. Brandon Creighton, the Republican from Conroe who chairs the Senate Education K-16 Committee and authored SB 37, said his legislation provides a clear delineation of faculty senates' advisory role and tailors university curriculum and degrees to "credentials of value" at a time when trust in higher education institutions is shrinking among Republicans.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

From 2012 to 2019, Republicans' views on colleges having a negative effect on the country jumped from 35% to 59%, while Democrats have remained largely stable in their positive view of higher education at 67% over the same period, according to the Pew Research Center.

"We're teaching courses that are not going to aid a student in their career and the like, we need to seriously ask why that's being offered," Shaheen said.

William Rodriguez, a senior at Texas A&M, testified that as a finance major to fulfill his requirement, he took a class in which he felt "pigeonholed" into only certain views, such as with global warming. Those who testified later said scientific facts and historical events do not need to be political, but they fear they will become partisan tools.

Paola Martinez, a senior at UT-El Paso, took a women studies course and said she read no politically conservative or moderate lessons, and she wished she had been exposed to more viewpoints.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Texas isn't alone in seeking to regulate higher education. In Indiana, lawmakers inserted a provision in its state budget that stripped faculty senate powers, allocated more authority to regents and established an enrollment threshold for degrees. Ohio and Utah have also passed laws limiting how and what faculty members may teach. But the Texas proposal has gained national attention for its scope and its implications for academic freedom.

Under SB 37, faculty members can't be involved in considerations over faculty grievances nor will they have final decision-making authority over someone's hiring, delivering on Gov. Greg Abbott's call during his State of the State address in February to keep faculty members from employment deliberations. The bill would also prohibit faculty members from electing their own faculty governance leader and from electing its membership. Instead, an institution's president would pick the faculty senate leadership, while retaining the power to remove any member who appears to advance a political agenda.

Caitilin Smith, who testified as an individual but teaches human sexuality and development, shared anonymized end of semester feedback from her students about critical thinking in her classes, including a conservative Christian who said they found "opportunities for greater education and understanding, especially with topics I'm not comfortable with." With SB 37, she said, students would not be pushed to learn in the same way, lowering the value of a university education that is supposed to prepare students not just for careers but for meaningful lives.

"Our society and our workforce need graduates who are able to have difficult conversations while remaining grounded in their values," Smith said. "SB 37 will transform our institutions of higher learning into mere degree mills, and many of us will not stand for that or even stay in Texas for that."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At 1 a.m. Wednesday, the bill was left pending in committee after about a half-hour of committee members quizzing Shaheen on officials' testimony. Shaheen said he has "high confidence" the Senate will accept the changes.

Wynne Chin, a distinguished professor at the University of Houston who is a past faculty senate president, advised the House panel that SB 37 is already depriving Texas of top talent.

"Regarding recruiting, this bill is already being raised as a point of concern from people Im trying to hire. Conversely, several star professors at UH have told me they are seriously considering leaving Texas because of this bill," Chin said. "And personally, a number of universities have already reached out to me to consider joining their institutions explicitly mentioning their awareness of this bill.

"Overall, this bills proposed structural changes will lead to increased costs and less effectiveness immediately and negative longer term economic impact on Texas due to inability to recruit top talent and brain drain of our world class researchers."

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: SB 37 risks Texas' higher education freedom, excellence: faculty
Some of the worlds most influential experts on international relations will convene in Salt Lake City this week to help Utah businesses navigate the upheaval of global markets.

The second annual Crossroads of the World International Trade Summit will feature conversations with three former U.S. secretaries of state and three former prime ministers.

It just shows once again that Utah is not just the crossroads of the West, its a crossroads of the world, said Jeff Flake, former U.S. ambassador to Turkey, in a Deseret News interview.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There are not many gatherings anywhere  in Washington, D.C., or New York, or L.A.  that have three former secretaries of state, along with former heads of state, ambassadors. So it just shows again that Utah is a significant player in international trade."

Sponsoring the event is the states largest financial institution, Zions Bank, and the states nonprofit arm for international business outreach, World Trade Center Utah, which recently led a trade mission with Gov. Spencer Cox to Canada.

On Wednesday, attendees will hear from Flake, former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, a number of Utah executives, legislators and manufacturers, and Presiding Bishop Gerald Causse of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

On Thursday, attendees will hear from Cox, former secretaries of state Antony Blinken and Condoleezza Rice, former prime ministers Jacinda Ardern of New Zealand and Theresa May of the United Kingdom, and Australia Ambassador to the U.S. Kevin Rudd, who is the former prime minister of Australia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its an impressive list that I dont think most states could do, said Shad Morris, the director of the Whitmore Global Business Center at Brigham Young Universitys Marriott School.

The fact that these high-profile players on the world stage are considering Utahs important role during a period of economic turmoil is a sign that the states rapid acceleration is being noticed worldwide, Morris said.

Over the past decade, Utah has led the nation in GDP growth, according to the University of Utahs Kem C. Gardner Institute, and was the fastest growing state in the nation according to the most recent census.

Coming to Utah just for this I think shows that Utah has been doing something right, Morris told the Deseret News. In the way were dealing with international trade, with economic policy, with business development.

Building on past momentum

This years event hopes to build on momentum from Zions Bank and World Trade Center Utahs first global summit in 2024, which featured remarks from former President George W. Bush, former Mexican President Vicente Fox and past Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

World Trade Center Utah CEO Jonathan Freedman, who has held the position since 2023, said his goal is for the annual event to become a world-class conference that just happens to be in Utah.

We want it to be known around the world, Freedman said.

Appointing Flake as the board chairman for World Trade Center Utah in September was a big step in this direction, Freedman said.

Other board members with international experience, including Scott Anderson, the former CEO of Zions Bank, contribute to World Trade Center Utahs strength which is its global network, Freedman said.

But in addition to raising Utahs status on the global stage, events like Crossroads of the World provide essential resources for the small, medium and large businesses that make up the membership of World Trade Center Utah, Freedman said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The organization has created a tariff dashboard to help Utah businesses navigate the complex timeline of executive orders, retaliatory actions and temporary pauses that have filled the months since President Donald Trump started his second term.

Many of the companies Freedman works with are struggling to plan for the future as the price of imported goods varies from day to day, he said. For some, the uncertainty has ruined their operations entirely.

Companies need predictability, they need certainty, and they need to know where they can turn for answers, Freedman said. And although we do not have all the answers, we do not have a crystal ball, we can provide lots of resources to companies such as access to the best information.

Conversations on Wednesday will focus on how businesses can handle policy whiplash and will give leaders the rare opportunity to engage with former officials from Republican, Democratic and foreign administrations who are able to speak candidly about the realities of global trade and foreign policy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Everyone is wondering how they navigate the situation were in; its a difficult environment for any companies here that rely on trade, Flake said. A lot of other companies benefit from hearing those who are going through this, have gone through it before, and have experience.

Utah: A global hub?

Freedmans hope is that as Utah shows an eagerness to strengthen ties with the world, the world will look to Utah as a hub for trade.

I want people around the world to look at Utah as a source of answers and predictability, as a safe haven for investment, as a destination for a talented, skilled workforce, Freedman said. These are all the things that were proud of in Utah.

Utah already stands out from its competitors because of its highly educated population, according to Morris. The state has the third most well-trained adult population in the country in terms of post-secondary degrees, credentials and certificates, according to the Kem C. Gardner Institute.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Morris has lived around the country and the world but says he has never lived in a place as entrepreneurial as Utah, from its Silicon Slopes tech sector, to its university system, health care and life science industries.

But one of the things that sets it apart most is its orientation toward the rest of the planet, Morris said. The state sends young people to countries around the world, and this exposure to the world has allowed Utah innovators to bring the world back home.

Were not an insular or protectionist state, Morris said. Were very much a state focused on growth and development and bringing in ideas, regardless of where theyre coming from, that are good for the economy, for the people, for the culture, for society.

Correction: The story has been corrected to reflect that there will be three, not two, former prime ministers speaking at the Crossroads of the World event.
We recently published a list of Jim Cramers Thoughts on These 13 Stocks. In this article, we are going to take a look at where ServiceNow, Inc. (NYSE:NOW) stands against other stocks that Jim Cramer discussed.

On Thursdays episode of Mad Money, Jim Cramer voiced his exasperation over the skepticism surrounding AI infrastructure as he stated that it was never backed by solid evidence to begin with. He expressed frustration that so many investors had been misled into believing that the AI infrastructure boom had somehow stalled.

Earnings season, its a pain in the neck. Its convoluted stuff coming at you from all different directions. Loss of sleep, just a total time suck and I love it. I love it because it clears things up. The false narratives are exposed. You can go back to playing offense, not defense. And few false narratives have gone as far as this story about the end of data center spending.

READ ALSO: 8 Stocks on Jim Cramers Radar Recently and Jim Cramer Listed 20 Best Performing Stocks of the Last 20 Years

According to Cramer, the story took root back on January 27th, DeepSeek Monday, when a Chinese company said that they developed a generative AI model requiring significantly fewer computing resources than industry leaders. He added:

All the previously red-hot AI infrastructure stocks were immediately crushed. You know what? They never really recovered.

Cramer questioned how the doubt could have been spread so easily. He pointed to the medias role and wondered whether reporters asked the right questions or enough questions at all. He criticized the consistent spotlight given to bearish voices, many of whom had clear financial motives. As per Cramer, some of these commentators failed to disclose that they had short positions across the AI sector. He accused them of putting profits ahead of facts as he noted that too much money was at stake for them to let reality interfere with their narrative. He added:

I know it may be hard to believe that huge companies with tens of billions of dollars to spend actually keep funneling that money to the data center suppliers but thats exactly whats happening, and I think its not too late to own a lot of the members of the complex. Even as I expect that if we wait a few days, the bears will be out again They just cant stop trying to make money at your expense.

Our Methodology

For this article, we compiled a list of 13 stocks that were discussed by Jim Cramer during the episodes of Mad Money aired on April 30 and May 1. We listed the stocks in ascending order of their hedge fund sentiment as of the fourth quarter of 2024, which was taken from Insider Monkeys database of over 1,000 hedge funds.
WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL)  Wichita Falls City Council gave the green light for the southbound U.S. Highway 82 overpass to honor the late Ray Gonzalez.

The designation will begin near Gonzalezs foreign car shop by Bridwell Street and McGregor Avenue.

WATCH: WFISD Foundation awards $500 grants to teachers for classroom needs

The Mexican American Veterans Association began the work to honor Gonzalez back in February. MAVA president Jose Villastrigo and Gonzalez daughter Renae Gonzalez Murphy said its an honor to see the city remember its veterans.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its a tribute to a life well-lived. A legacy of service and a symbol of the values that hold dear faith, perseverance, and community. Dad is proud to call Wichita Falls home. He loved the city, and served it with everything he had as a soldier, as a small business owner, and as a public servant. Gonzalez-Murphy said.

The resolution will now move to TxDOT officials to move forward with putting up the sign.

He never sought recognition for his service or his sacrifice, but we know this moment would fill his heart with gratitude and pride, Gonzalez-Murphy said. Thank you for persevering, for preserving his memory in a place that represents both his lifes work and his lasting impact on the community.

according to Gonzalez Murphy; Gonzalez is the first Purple Heart recipient to be recognized in this way.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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 Texomashomepage.com.
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW)  A local hospitality company is helping Wichita seniors cross the graduation stage by erasing their lunch debt.

On Tuesday morning, the TGC Group donated $10,000 to Wichita Public Schools Nutrition Services to cover outstanding lunch balances for high school seniors. The contribution ensures that students with unpaid meal accounts are not barred from participating in graduation ceremonies.

Kansas State Fair seeking Social Media Ambassadors

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The check was presented at the districts School Service Center on North Hydraulic.

We want to help out kids, we want to help children. Thats part of our mission at TGC. We heard that some seniors might not be able to walk at graduation if they have a balance on their account. We wanted to do something a little different, a little outside the box, said Sabrina Esterline, Director of Philanthropy at TGC Group.

TGC Group, located in downtown Wichita, develops and manages hotels across 19 states. Committed to supporting children and families in need, the company organizes an annual coat drive, now in its tenth year, providing thousands of jackets to local kids.

While this is the first time the company has paid off student meal debt, Esterline said the effort aligns with TGCs broader goal: reducing burdens on children so they can focus on their future.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sometimes its just nice to help out kids in the community, she said. They deserve the chance to graduate without the stress of a lunch bill hanging over them.

For more Kansas news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news by downloading our mobile app and signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track 3 Weather app by clicking 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 KSN-TV.
The Wilkes County Board of Commissioners would like to respond on the Wilkes Rescue Squad and the action taken in their meeting on May 6, 2025. First they want to thank the Rescue Squad for the service they have provided since 1955. They would like to thank ALL of the 25 Volunteer and 2 Town Fire Departments for all that they do for the citizens of the Great State of Wilkes as well. Without all these men and women, along with our Wilkes EMS, we could not provide the excellent medical care and rescue response that our citizens deserve and depend on.

The Rescue Squad was in breach of their contract with Wilkes County for over 7 months. In the fall of 2024, the Wilkes County Medical Director, Dr. Lance Henninger rescinded Wilkes Rescue Squads authorization to function as an Advanced Life Support (ALS) organization in Wilkes County. This means they cannot function at the advanced level required to be the back-up for Wilkes EMS. This action was the sole decision of the Medical Director, whose license they operate under. Wilkes County had no say in this; it is expressly the Medical Directors decision to make based on his opinion of the ability of Wilkes Rescue Squad to competently, safely, and effectively provide this service due to the lack of ALS qualified members responding for the Squad. As a result, the Squad can no longer provide the back-up service they are contractually obligated to provide, which places them in breach of their contract with the County. Without this license, they CANNOT function at the advanced level required in the contract. Due to this breach, County Attorney Tony Triplett was instructed to contact Wilkes Rescue, advising them that they have thirty (30) days to cure the breach or the contract would be terminated. A thirty (30) day notice was required under the terms of that contract. Mr. Triplett issued this notice to the Chairman of the Board of Directors and the Captain of Wilkes Rescue Squad on March 26, 2025. County Officials are grateful for the service the Squad has provided and we had hoped to be able to resolve this breach in a way that would best benefit the Citizens of Wilkes County. According to Dr. Henninger, they could not cure the breach at this time. We as the Board of Commissioners could not continue under the current contract.

Wilkes County EMS has been operating as its own back-up for over 7 months, since the fall of 2024, and have covered all standbys without the Squad; no citizens call was unanswered. Every call received will continue to receive the highest level of ALS care as they always have from Wilkes County.

Wilkes County is the primary funding source for Wilkes Rescue Squad, providing more than 48% of their annual revenue from tax payer funds. The amount appropriated to the Rescue Squad in the 24-25 budget is $210,120.00. One of the main reasons we funded Wilkes Rescue at this level is their contract called for them to provide back-up service for Wilkes EMS. With this being said, Wilkes County Government cannot continue funding the Rescue Squad at the same level while receiving less services. The Rescue Squad is not a County department. They are a non-profit just like many other non-profits across Wilkes. We are not doing away with them. This is simply a termination of a contract that they can no longer fulfill their obligations under. Regardless of the status of the Wilkes Rescue Squad, Wilkes County will continue to ensure all levels of emergency services are provided to the citizens.

Let us provide you with the background on this. On August 7, 2023, County Officials entered into discussions with officials from the Wilkes Rescue Squad to attempt to reach an agreement on a new contract to replace the contract that was in force at the time. Their most recent contract was entered into on September 20, 2011 and needed to be updated. After the contract with the County was signed, on September 26, 2011, Wilkes Rescue Squad filed a restatement of their Articles of Incorporation with the North Carolina Secretary of State. This was done without the knowledge of the County within 6 days of when the contract was signed. It later came to the attention of the County Commissioners that a dissolution clause was added to the Squads Articles of Incorporation on 09/26/2011 that stated: in the event the Corporation should cease to be solvent or otherwise decided to disband or go out of service, all their assets could be dispersed to any 501(c)3 organization performing similar services. This new clause in their Articles of Incorporation is in direct conflict with the contract we were prepared to offer Wilkes Rescue. The proposed contract was consistent with the contracts that the County has with all of the Volunteer Fire Departments in Wilkes County, which requires that all assets will be returned to the County for distribution to other departments that may need the equipment in the event of dissolution. It is the

opinion of the County that all assets, equipment, and/or property that was paid for by Wilkes County tax payers should absolutely be returned to be used for the benefit of the Citizens in our County in the event of dissolution. Wilkes Rescues resistance to remove this clause from their Articles of Incorporation has been another major obstacle in negotiations for a new contract.

When the Squad Chief told his members we will no longer be responding to calls after midnight tonight. We will be cancelling all meetings/training sessions until after the May 6th meeting. Again, we will not be dispatched after midnight tonight and none of our equipment is to respond for any reason the Board of Commissioners, in conjunction with the EMS and County staff, worked swiftly to ensure that rescue services of all levels remain in place for our citizens. We verbally entered into agreements with four rescue response Fire Departments to ensure the entire county was covered, these are Millers Creek, Mulberry-Fairplains, Ronda, and Broadway. We also currently have five other Fire Departments that are certified rescue and are prepared and will also respond as needed. These Fire Departments are funded with your fire tax dollars; if we entered in to a rescue only contract with the Rescue Squad, our citizens would continue to have to pay for duplication of these rescue services.

Wilkes County Commissioners will continue to prioritize the safety, health, and wellbeing of our Citizens moving forward.
Prince William and Kate Middleton are trying to avoid another Spare situation with their children. With their second child, Princess Charlotte, the Prince and Princess of Wales are taking extra care of their daughter.

Robert Hardman, author of The Making of a King, told People that William already has the extra foundation to support his family when he becomes King. The author revealed that he is preparing to be King himself but to make the whole royal existence approachable and not scary for all his children. The family wants to not end up in a situation where Charlotte feels like a Spare, a term that is given to the second child of the person whos next in line for the throne.

More from StyleCaster

(Photo by Neil Mockford/GC Images)

To avoid any of those negative feelings, William and Kate are raising Princess Charlotte to strike a balance between private life and duty, a source told the site. Getting the family right is absolutely critical, particularly in terms of what the nation expects of them, says a family friend.

Related: What Will Prince Williams Kids Royal Titles Be When Hes King? George, Charlotte & Louis Future Roles Revealed

Prince Harry wrote extensively about how he resented the nickname in his memoir of the same name. My family had declared me a nullity. The Spare. I didnt complain about it, but I didnt need to dwell on it either. Far better, in my mind, not to think about certain facts But no one gave a damn whom I traveled with; the Spare could always be spared, he wrote. I was the shadow, the support, the Plan B. I was brought into the world in case something happened to Willy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Traditionally, the second in line receives a title of Princess Consort or Prince Consort, with the exception of Prince Philip, who declined it. Princess Charlotte has the option to receive the title once her father becomes King. A royal insider said, It could either be seen as an antiquated title or something steeped in history that they will want to respect.

Reports also came in that Prince William will be taking away Prince Harry and his wifes HRH titles onces hes King. Its no secret William wants Harry more harshly dealt with. He thinks he has betrayed the family from top to bottom, which is the ultimate Windsor crime. It wouldnt take much to provoke him to flex his muscles when he is king, a palace insider told The Daily Beast.

Courtesy of: Random House.

Spare by Prince Harry

On Sale 41% off

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

$13.07 Buy Now On Amazon

$13.07 Buy Now at Target

Best of StyleCaster

Sign up for Stylecaster's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
DELAVAN, Wis. (WFRV)  A deputy driving in southern Wisconsin narrowly avoided a head-on collision with a truck that was passing traffic in a no-passing zone, leading to a multi-vehicle crash.

Around 5:20 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6, a deputy with the Walworth County Sheriffs Office was driving eastbound on Highway 50 in Delavan when he saw a truck coming at him head-on in the eastbound lane.

The truck was allegedly trying to pass other westbound vehicles in a marked no-passing zone.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He tried to hit you: Details released of crash that killed Wisconsin doctor who was walking with her family

The deputy tried to evade the head-on collision but was sideswiped by the truck. The release states that the truck continued, subsequently sideswiping another eastbound vehicle before crashing head-on with a third vehicle.

All vehicles remained at the scene and were inoperable as a result of the crash, including the deputys squad car that came to a stop on the highway with extensive damage.

A citizen who witnessed the crash reportedly stopped and helped the deputy get out of his squad. He was then told that other witnesses stopped to help the driver of the truck, who was trapped in the truck.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The deputy immediately went to help the driver of the truck, who needed medical attention.

Law enforcement from the City and Town of Delavan Police Departments and the Walworth County Sheriffs Office got to the scene to provide treatment to the other injured drivers. It was noted that all injuries were considered non-life-threatening.

61-year-old in Wisconsin arrested on felony operating while intoxicated after crashing into construction sign

Deputies stated that the driver of the truck was experiencing a medical emergency, which was deemed a significant contributing factor in the crash.

The communitys willingness to stop and assist our injured Deputy and other drivers in this crash did not go unnoticed and is greatly appreciated. We extend our sincere thanks to the citizens involved, the City of Delavan Police and Fire Department, the Town of Delavan Police and Fire Department, and the Wisconsin State Patrol. Captain Josh Staggs, Walworth County Sheriffs Office

No other details were provided.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
U.S. Rep. Derrick Van Orden, a Republican who represents western Wisconsin in Congress, will miss votes May 8 and reschedule an upcoming town hall due to a "credible threat" made against his family, his office said.

According to a May 6 statement from Van Orden's office, a letter delivered to his D.C. office contained threats to his wife, children and grandchildren. The letter was reported to the appropriate authorities, his office said.

"No elected official, regardless of political party affiliation, should have to worry about the safety of their family while serving the American people," his office said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Van Orden's office declined to provide additional information to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and denied a request to see a copy of the letter.

U.S. Capitol Police declined to say whether they received a report of the incident, saying only they cannot discuss any potential investigations.

Prairie du Chien Police Chief Kyle Teynor told the Journal Sentinel that his department was notified of the reported threat by Van Ordens office and sent officers to the locations of (Van Ordens) family to ensure their safety.

Teynor said he could not comment on the nature of the threats and said U.S. Capitol Police were handling the investigation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said this was not the first time the Prairie du Chien Police Department was notified about a threat to Van Orden.

U.S Representative Derrick Van Orden for the Third Congressional District speaks on a Federal Legislator panel during the 2024 Republican Party Of Wisconsin State Convention on Saturday May 18, 2024 at the Fox Cities Exhibition Center in Appleton, Wis.

Democrats have pushed Wisconsin Republicans, especially those in battleground districts like Van Orden's, to hold constituent town halls to discuss the Trump administration's agenda. Earlier this year, House leadership advised Republicans to stop holding in-person town halls that drew angry constituents.

Some of Wisconsin's Republican members of Congress previously told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel they would continue holding in-person town halls despite the guidance.

In March, former Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz held a town hall-style event in Van Orden's district to highlight Republicans who stopped hosting them. Van Orden said during a virtual town hall that he would not hold in-person ones, citing a push from Democratic groups to send protesters to the events.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is not clear which town hall event is being rescheduled. Van Orden's website has a sign-up link for town hall invites, but no calendar showing upcoming dates.

More: Why Democrats see Derrick Van Orden's seat as a richer target than Bryan Steil's

Wisconsin Democrats experienced swatting incidents last year

In the statement, Van Orden's office alleged the threatening behavior was a "direct result of increasingly radical and violent rhetoric fueled by far-left Democrats."

But Democrats in Wisconsin's congressional delegation have dealt with similar behavior. U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore was swatted  a false threat intended to trigger police responses  at her home in Milwaukee last year. At the time, Moore said U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin experienced a similar incident.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Democratic U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan, who typically has a combative relationship on social media with Van Orden, tweeted he hopes Van Orden and other elected officials receiving threats see "a quick catch of perpetrators." Pocan indicated he's been targeted himself.

"No elected official should receive death threats  it is truly un-American," Pocan wrote. "From recent MAGA threats to GOP senators, to regular ongoing threats I and others receive, to anti-Trump threats  none are appropriate."

During the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Van Orden accused an anti-war protester of assaulting him in an "incident of political violence" while the two were waiting in line before an event. Code Pink, the protest group, denied an assault took place and instead said Van Orden "tried to shove past" the protester.

The Milwaukee District Attorney's Office said evidence in the case, including police body camera footage, was "insufficient" to back up Van Orden's accusations or support a criminal charge.

(This story was updated to add new information.)

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Rep. Derrick Van Orden reschedules town hall due to 'credible threat'
DODGE COUNTY, Wis. (WFRV)  A 32-year-old Wisconsin woman was arrested on Monday, stemming from investigations into threats made to Waupun Correctional Institution employees.

The Dodge County Sheriffs Office reported that it had been investigating the threats made to other people at the institution as well. The release said numerous victims received hundreds of threatening and harassing calls, texts and/or emails.

Deputies: Driver crashes into postal worker in Wisconsin after waiving to Amish farmer

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The threats were disruptive of the prisons operations, as law enforcement had to increase its presence near victims homes.

On Monday, the Dodge County Sheriffs Office and multiple Milwaukee Police Department units performed a search warrant on a Milwaukee residence. Detectives found devices that provided evidence of the alleged threats.

32-year-old Trina Brown of Milwaukee was arrested, with multiple counts of the following charges requested:

Stalking

Terroristic Threats

Unlawful Use of a Telephone

Unlawful Use of a Computerized Communication System

Bail Jumping

Woman in Wisconsin arrested on battery charges after allegedly assaulting roommate, damaging property

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Any charges will be through the Dodge County District Attorneys Office.

No additional details were 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.
The latest misguided legislation to be mandated to Oklahoma public schools is Senate Bill 139. This measure, which Gov. Kevin Stitt signed May 5, requires Oklahoma school districts to adopt a cellphone ban policy for a full year, beginning in August 2025. The language of this abbreviated two-page bill is the result of compromise between the two chambers over words like shall and may.

The Oklahoma Legislature loves to dictate to educators what they, the lawmakers, think is best for Oklahoma students. Oklahoma lawmakers also frequently pass laws with little to no fiscal impact, without considering the very real cost to the people who will actually implement the laws  building administration and teachers. The result is a host of education laws that are nothing more than the heavy burden of unfunded mandates.

More: Cellphones will be banned in Oklahoma schools for 2025-26 school year: What to know

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cellphone use in schools is a complicated issue that will not be solved through simple mandates. Everyone in education, no exceptions, has a nuanced opinion on the pros and cons of personal devices in the classroom. The issue of cellphones in schools would have provided the perfect opportunity for public testimony to be utilized as a vital part of the legislative process. Oklahoma needs a public hearing component in the Legislature, something significantly more robust than interim studies that often do not allow public comment.

Cellphone use in schools is a complicated issue that will not be solved through simple mandates, guest columnist writes.

The majority of educators agree that cellphones constitute a problem that needs to be addressed. But SB 139 is a short-sighted solution that will likely play out as follows:

Oklahoma legislators pat themselves on the back after passing a cellphone ban that includes no assistance, financial or otherwise.

Local district administration fulfill their requirement by adopting a one year policy banning cellphones from schools.

Building level administrators are faced with the very difficult choice of implementing the policy at the door as students enter every morning or simply passing the buck and placing the onus of implementation squarely on the backs of teachers.

A teacher single-handedly barring cellphones from their classroom is taking on an additional unpaid part-time job. An effective ban would require partnerships across all levels: teachers, building administrators, district administration and lawmakers.

More: Opinion: Compromises between students, parents, educators could address cellphone issues

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Oklahoma Legislature has already indicated that they are only interested in mandates and not partnerships. Time will tell how district and building level administrators respond to SB 139. Worst case scenario: full implementation becomes the sole responsibility of already-overtasked teachers, and the teacher shortage shifts from terrible to unimaginable.

Aaron Baker

Aaron Baker is a high school social studies teacher and musician living in northwest Oklahoma City.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: New Oklahoma law on cellphones unlikely to help much | Opinion
Former U.S. President Joe Biden described U.S. pressure on Ukraine to give up territory to Russia as "modern-day appeasement," saying in a BBC interview published on May 7 that it would only embolden Russian President Vladimir Putin and threaten global security.

Biden, breaking from the tradition of former presidents avoiding criticism of successors early in their term, said conceding Ukrainian territory could erode confidence in Washington's global role.

His comments come as U.S. President Donald Trump's administration's latest peace proposal reportedly included U.S. recognition of Russia's control over Crimea and de facto acknowledgment of other occupied Ukrainian territories.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On April 25, Trump repeated his claim that Ukraine's NATO ambitions triggered Russia's full-scale invasion, adding that Crimea "will stay with Russia."

"Anybody that thinks he (Putin) is going to stop if some territory is conceded as part of a peace deal is just foolish," Biden said, without explicitly naming Trump throughout the interview.

"I just don't understand how people think that if we allow a dictator (Putin), a thug, to decide he's going to take significant portions of land that aren't his, that that's going to satisfy him. I don't quite understand."

Russia illegally occupied Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula in 2014 following a sham referendum conducted under military occupation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2022, during its full-scale invasion, Russia claimed to annex four additional Ukrainian oblasts  Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson  although it does not fully control any of them.

Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support Us

Asked whether his administration had done enough to help Ukraine win the war, Biden said, "We gave them everything they needed to provide for their independence, and we were prepared to respond, more aggressively, if Putin moved again."

Since the start of his second term in January 2025, Trump has not approved any new U.S. military aid packages for Ukraine. His campaign pledge to end the war within 24 hours has failed to yield results after more than 100 days in office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Moscow has presented maximalist demands in ceasefire negotiations and rejected a U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire, which Kyiv accepted on March 11.

Despite frustration with Russia's refusal to de-escalate, the Trump administration has not imposed new sanctions or taken other measures to pressure the Kremlin.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Trump previously warned that the U.S. would withdraw from mediation efforts if no meaningful progress was made. On May 1, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said the U.S. would reduce its role.

"That is now between the two parties, and now is the time that they need to present and develop concrete ideas about how this conflict is going to end," Bruce said.

Read also: Russian missile, drone attack on Kyiv kills 2, injures 8

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  All five candidates on the ballot for the Democratic nomination in the race for Buffalo mayor have agreed to take the stage for a debate held by WIVB News 4 on June 3, exactly three weeks before the primary election.

The 90-minute event, hosted at DYouville Universitys Kavinoky Theatre, includes a debate from 7-8 p.m. and a town hall-style question-and-answer period from 8-8:30 p.m.

The debate will air live on WIVB, WIVB.com, and our free connected TV app, WIVB+. The 8-8:30 portion will be available exclusively on WIVB+ and WIVB.com.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The candidates taking part in the event are:

Acting Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon

State Senator Sean M. Ryan

University District Common Councilman Rasheed N.C. Wyatt

Former Buffalo Fire Commissioner Garnell Whitfield Jr.

Buffalo native Anthony J.P. Tyson-Thompson

Who is running for Buffalo mayor in 2025?

WIVBs Dave Greber and Marlee Tuskes will moderate the event.

The Erie County Democratic Committee gave its endorsement to Ryan in February. The Erie County Republican Committee endorsed former law clerk James Gardner and will not hold a primary.

The primary election will be held on Tuesday, June 24. Early voting begins June 14. The general election is Nov. 4.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

WIVB is Your Local Election Headquarters. Stay tuned for the latest news and information on this race and others others across Western New York.

Latest Local 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 News 4 Buffalo.
We recently published a list of Jim Cramer Rediscovers Love For Magnificent 7 & Discusses These 11 Stocks In this article, we are going to take a look at where Becton, Dickinson and Company (NYSE:BDX) stands against other stocks that Jim Cramer discusses.

In his recent appearance on CNBCs Squawk on the Street, Jim Cramer found his love for Magnificent 7 stocks once again. He had grown disillusioned with them after the DeepSeek and tariff turmoil, as in a late April appearance, the CNBC TV host had renamed the stocks. Yeah thats gone. Yeah I dont know its not like the Mag 7. . .no were done with that, Mag 7, whole thing. Now its the Wild Bunch. . . were switching, its no more, I mean honestly, Wild Bunch was actually a better movie, hed said.

This time around, Cramer returned to the Magnificent 7 moniker. But let me come back with a new thesis. We found out why we liked the Magnificent 7 last night. They do well when things arent good. And theres been a lot of periods where things arent good. Suddenly they do well! according to him.

Cramer also sarcastically commented on President Trump attributing weak economic growth to President Biden. Does he like Joe Biden? said Cramer. What was interesting was he said yesterday was Bidens market. He caught the opening but he didnt get the close, he added.

The conversation then shifted to Elon Musk and DOGE. Musk had announced last month that he would spend more time at his car company. Cramer, for his part, wondered why Musk didnt go after the Pentagon, Social Security, and Medicare. Why didnt he go, where was the trillion dollars? What happened to the trillion dollars we were going to save?

With the latest US weekly jobless claims surging to 241,000, Cramer agreed with BofAs assessment, which called them a DC recession due to the Trump administrations layoffs. Absolutely. And I think thats right. Im not hearing anybody, in any of these other companies, [inaudible] listen, were gonna have to lay people off, he outlined.

One interesting material thats caught Cramers attention, which he believes could become a key point between the US and Chinas trade relations, is ethane. Commenting on the hydrocarbon, he stated:

[R]emember when, the futures plastics? Right, well, they dont have ethane in China. We have the ethane, they had a tariff on ethane, they took it away . . .yeah but lookout.

Our Methodology

To make our list of the stocks that Jim Cramer talked about, we listed down the stocks he mentioned during CNBCs Squawk on the Street aired on May 1st.
A Wixom chrome plating operation that investigators found overrode 460 warning alarms as it dumped wastewater with elevated levels of potentially health-harming chemicals into the city's sanitary sewer system has been sentenced for federal Clean Water Act violations.

Tribar Technologies Inc. was sentenced in U.S. District Court in Detroit to pay a $200,000 criminal fine, $20,000 in restitution and to serve five years' probation. Tribar officials had earlier pleaded guilty to violating the Clean Water Act, a misdemeanor, with its wastewater release, Acting U.S. Attorney Julie A. Beck said in a news release.

According to court documents, Tribar manufactures decorative trim assemblies and components for the automotive and commercial vehicle markets in southeast Michigan. At Tribar's Plant 5, the Wixom facility where the improper wastewater discharge occurred, the company uses an electroplating process to apply chrome finishing to plastic automotive parts.

The Tribar Manufacturing facility in Wixom, on Aug. 8, 2022.

On July 23, 2022, Tribar Plant 5 accumulated approximately 15,000 gallons of untreated wastewater with high concentrations of hexavalent chromium. After attempts at treatment, the chemical levels were still at levels that required additional treatment before release into Wixom's sanitary sewer system. But on July 29, 2022, a Tribar employee released about 10,000 gallons of insufficiently treated wastewater from the tank into the city sewer system. Some 460 alarm bells sounded at the plant but were disabled, according to investigators.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tribar officials did not report the illegal discharge until Aug. 1, 2022. State public health and environmental regulators issued an emergency advisory that day, urging the public to avoid contact with Huron River water between North Wixom Road in Oakland County and Kensington Road in Livingston County, an area that includes Hubbell Pond, also known as Mill Pond, in Oakland County; and Kent Lake in Kensington Metropark. The alert lasted several days, as extensive testing found hexavalent chromium in Hubbell Pond and Kent Lake, but at levels that did not exceed regulatory values to protect aquatic life.

A sign reads the closure of The Maple Beach at Kensington Metropark in Milford Township, Michigan due to water contamination on Aug. 8, 2022. The hexavalent chromium release from the Tribar facility contaminated the Huron river, the Michigan EGLE testing is being done from Kent Lake at Kensington Metropark back to Wixom.

"Tribar's failure to adequately train and supervise its employees jeopardized the safety and quality of local water resources," Beck said.

Hexavalent chromium is a metal used in electroplating, stainless steel production, leather tanning, textile manufacturing and wood preservation. It can be harmful to human health when ingested, touched or inhaled, and has been associated with breathing problems and lung and intestinal cancers.

Hexavalent chromium has been dubbed "the Erin Brockovich chemical" after the California woman who discovered widespread contamination with the metal from a large state utility. Actress Julia Roberts' portrayal of the citizen turned environmental activist in the 2000 movie "Erin Brockovich" won Roberts the Best Actress Academy Award the following year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Tribar case was investigated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Criminal Investigation Division, the U.S. Department of Justice Environmental Crimes Division, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the FBI and the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service.

As part of its guilty plea and sentence, Tribar Technologies is required to install an environmental management system and compliance plan within the first six months of its 5-year probation.

Contact Keith Matheny: kmatheny@freepress.com.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Wixom chrome plater Tribar fined $200K for Clean Water Act violations
President Donald Trumps first term witnessed the rapid rise of the woke left  a progressive movement known for its identity politics, historical revisionism and ideological orthodoxy.

The question now dividing the biggest names in conservative media is whether the second Trump term will unleash a woke right, driven by a similar focus on power, grievance and aggressive online attacks.

Confrontations erupted in recent weeks between influencers on the right, including Jordan Peterson, Candace Owens, Tucker Carlson and Ben Shapiro  previously united in their support for Trump  debating where to draw the line within MAGA around topics like Israel and tactics like social media mobbing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some independent media personalities, including Matt Walsh, Tim Pool and Jack Posobiec, framed the schism as just another move by the Republican establishment to box out independent populist thinkers.

But some of the biggest conservative critics of wokeness, including Peterson and James Lindsay, insisted that without guardrails American conservatism could be hijacked by those with its worst impulses, leading the anti-woke right to fall prey to the same vices it once condemned.

FILE - Ben Shapiro, center, leaves the Ohel Chabad-Lubavitch after a visit from Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump, Oct. 7, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura, File) | Yuki Iwamura

What is the woke right?

Few have made a career so focused on combatting wokeism as James Lindsay, author, mathematician and online troublemaker.

A self-described veteran of the first woke wars, Lindsay gained conservative celebrity status in 2018 when he successfully published hoax articles in high-profile journals to show that an oppressor-versus-oppressed worldview dominated parts of academia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

His relentless criticism of gender ideology and his provocative style earned Lindsay a wave of pushback, including cancellation when he was banned from what was then known as Twitter in 2022.

But after Elon Musk reopened his account later that year, Lindsay said he began to notice a new woke war stirring on the opposite side of the political spectrum.

I lived through this once on the left, and Im living through it again on the right, and its identical, Lindsay told the Deseret News. Its not similar; its the same.

What Lindsay saw was growing momentum among Trump supporters who he believed were mimicking wokeisms emphasis on systemic inequality, race-based victimhood and in-group policing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Whereas the woke left framed the West as an intrinsically racist place where minority groups are subject to obstacles created by a white ruling class, the woke right decried an America in decline where white Christians are targeted by a globalist conspiracy that threatens traditional values.

These opposing worldviews are structurally indistinguishable from each other because they both rely on critical theorys focus on group identity and power dynamics, Lindsay said. He pointed to his most recent stunt as proof.

In 2018, Lindsay succeeded in getting a journal of feminist social work to publish a rewrite of a section of Adolf Hitlers Mein Kampf, updated with some intersectional vocabulary. In December, Lindsay did the mirror opposite on the right.

Using the pseudonym Marcus Carlson, Lindsay submitted an edited portion of Karl Marxs Communist Manifesto to American Reformer, a Protestant political website, swapping proletariat with the Christian Right and replacing bourgeoisie with liberalism.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

American Reformer published the piece, describing it as a powerful article. And after its true authorship and similarities to Marx were discovered, the publications editors kept it on their website because it was a reasonable aggregation of some New Right ideas(.)

This experiment confirmed Lindsays perception of the woke right as a collection of post-liberal commentators who view the current system as irredeemably rigged against their preferred groups and who consider the stakes of winning so high that it justifies using the tools of the left.

Anybody on the right whos basically pushing for Machiavellian power plays is probably woke right, Lindsay said. You have to covet power to be woke.

James Lindsay speaks at the Moms for Liberty meeting in Philadelphia, Saturday, July 1, 2023. | Matt Rourke

Is there a woke right?

Over the past year, Lindsays concept of the woke right has gained momentum of its own, spawning supportive essays from a slew of pundits. Last month, the phrase exploded.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The fuse was lit on one of the worlds largest media platforms, the Joe Rogan Experience, where Jordan Peterson, a psychologistturned-public-intellectual-superstar  said the woke right phenomenon isnt political at all.

Its the product of social media algorithms empowering psychopathic pretenders to invade the idea space and use those ideas as false weapons to advance their narcissistic advantage, Peterson said.

Ive been watching these psychopathic types manipulate the edge of the conservative movement for their own gain and a lot of that is cloaked in antisemitic guise, Peterson said.

The reaction from some of the most-followed right-wing accounts on X, formerly known as Twitter, was immediate, and grew larger following Petersons subsequent appearance on Fox News where he outlined 10 markers of political psychopathology, which include public claims of ideological purity, false cries of victimization and militant calls for vengeance.

In this April 26, 2019, file photo, Candace Owens speaks at the National Rifle Association Institute for Legislative Action Leadership Forum in Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. | Michael Conroy

Candace Owens likened Petersons comments to schoolgirl, ad-hominem attacks against people he dislikes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The conservative comedy duo, the Hodgetwins, speculated about a psyop going on to divide Trumps (sic) base.

And Dave Smith, a libertarian critic of Israel, called it sloppy for a clinical psychologist to just throw out a mass diagnosis like this.

If you ask the founder of paleo-conservatism, and the godfather of the variously named alternative dissident or non-aligned right, the phrase the woke right has no basis in reality at all.

It does not make any sense because the so-called woke right have been the most relentless critics of wokeness, Paul Gottfried told the Deseret News. As a matter of fact, theyre much more radical in their criticism than the conservative establishment, which cut them off decades ago.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gottfried claims that the real right  noted for its emphasis on decentralized government, Americas European heritage and non-interventionist foreign policy  shares almost nothing in common with the woke left.

Lumping together individuals with divergent views like Tucker Carlson, Steve Bannon and Candace Owens, Gottfried said, shows that the origin of Lindsays woke right campaign is likely a desire to further marginalize factions of conservatism which already lack the influence to cancel anyone.

And if this is the intention, Gottfried believes it is bound to backfire.

There is a very, very large number of younger conservatives, ... theyve sort of surfaced with Trumps victory, they now identify with the populist right, Gottfried said. At some point the conservative establishment is going to have to deal with this; you cant keep pushing people out.

U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, left, Tucker Carlson, center, and former President Donald Trump, right, react during the final round of the Bedminster Invitational LIV Golf tournament in Bedminster, N.J., Sunday, July 31, 2022. | Seth Wenig

Leaning into identity

However, Gottfried concedes there may be one place where some might see overlap between the independent right and the wokesters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For those to the right of mainstream conservatism, there is a greater willingness to emphasize ethnic and gender distinctions, according to Gottfried.

In these circles, affirming group identity and capturing cultural institutions for conservative ends are seen as skills of the left that should be replicated on the right.

Gottfried himself was mentored during his doctoral days by influential Marxist philosopher Herbert Marcuse of the Frankfurt School who advocated for social justice through selective intolerance of ideas.

Conservative activist Christopher Rufo, who has led out on countering wokeness in universities, cites Italian Communist thinker Antonio Gramsci as an inspiration for how to control politics by shaping culture.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But many of the individuals Lindsay has placed in the woke-right camp often stray from these theoretical grounds into race-based applications.

Tucker Carlson  labeled by one observer as the undisputed spiritual leader of the woke right  stated in a recent interview with Matt Walsh of the Daily Wire that he thinks everything is rigged against white men.

In September, Carlson, one of the most-followed conservative accounts on X, hosted podcaster Darryl Cooper who falsely claimed that millions of Jews ended up dead in Nazi concentration camps because the Nazis lacked the resources to take care of them.

Carlson later said that Cooper may be the best and most honest popular historian in the United States.

Candace Owens speaks at the Convention of the Right, in Paris, Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019. | Michel Euler

Candace Owens, also one of the most-followed influencers on the right, who was fired by the Daily Wire last year, has falsely and consistently framed Jewish groups at the center of secret plots to hurt Christians, perpetrate pedophilia and exploit the United States.

In a 15-page letter sent to Owens in September, radio host Dennis Prager  the founder of PragerU, Owens former boss and a Jew  walked through each of Owens claims about Jews, Zionism and Israel and refuted each of them with historical evidence.

This kind of rhetoric, while typically shunned, is not new on the right, according to George Hawley, associate professor of political science at the University of Alabama, and author of several books, including Divided America: The Right and Identity Politics.

There was always an element of American conservatism that leaned into identity-based grievance politics, Hawley told the Deseret News. Over the last decade, however, the taboo against right-wing identity politics seems to have weakened, and the identitarian right appears to be gaining ground.

Before social media, it was more straightforward for a political movement to banish certain factions, Hawley said. But now, boosting based opinions outside of the status quo is the quickest way to success.

Views that promote a vision of society as a zero-sum struggle between different groups tend to trigger more engagement in an algorithm-centric news cycle, Hawley said. And pursuing consensus is often seen as bending the knee.

There is little benefit to expressing moderate, nuanced opinions, or to ever suggest that their ideological opponents are operating in good faith, Hawley said. In fact, doing so might even cost them viewers.

Why draw a line?

The temptation to adopt simple explanations that place victim groups at the center of a corrupt system run by a cabal of elites is part of human nature, according to Neil Shenvi, a theoretical chemist and conservative Evangelical blogger known for his Christian apologetics and critiques of critical theory.

Shenvi has written extensively about fellow Evangelical voices that espouse various forms of Christian Nationalism and post-liberalism. What he has found is that while the left and the right have totally opposing political goals, the extremes on both ends have wound up relying on identical theories of power.

Theyre openly embracing the very same ideas and the same authors, Shenvi said. Its weird people are denying this is happening because they say it themselves in published works.

This horseshoe phenomenon uniting the fringes of U.S. politics was exacerbated by the lefts Great Awokening, Shenvi said, leading to a backlash from the right.

From the mid 2010s to wokeisms highpoint in 2020, anti-white animus was permitted and promoted by mainstream liberal media, according to Shenvi, with the two preeminent gurus of the woke left directly targeting white Americans.

Robin DiAngelo, in her No. 1 bestseller White Fragility, wrote that, all white people are racist. Ibram Kendi, in his No. 1 bestseller How to Be an Antiracist, wrote that, The only remedy to racist discrimination is antiracist discrimination.

Its natural that people would react against that, Shenvi said. I think a lot of it is simply people basically saying, Its my turn.

But Shenvi believes this approach has revealed itself to be toxic for conservatives and Christianity because an emphasis on worldly identity displaces unity in Christ, a priority of winning blocks out the pursuit of holiness, and an attitude of no enemies to the right eliminates the possibility of civil dialogue.

If you embrace just transgression of all boundaries, Were not going to listen to any experts, no authorities, no gatekeeping, youve unleashed a monster, Shenvi said.

For this reason, Lindsay thinks it is important for conservatives to draw a line excluding some conduct and viewpoints as unacceptable. If this doesnt happen, wokeness could become the dominant force on the right as it was temporarily on the left, Lindsay said.

Many conservative influencers are already self-censoring from fear of being canceled and made subject to an online dogpile, Lindsay said, pointing out that antisemitic content has started to inundate comments to conservative accounts on X.

While much of this social media response is hazardously fake, driven by bot farms and unrepresentative of most conservatives, Lindsay said, it still creates incentives for rightwing personalities to push the envelope further and further.

We should be skeptical of the establishment, but we shouldnt be so open minded about every possible hypothesis or conspiracy theory that our brains fall out, Lindsay said.

Gottfried agrees that even his vision for a more conservative America must have its boundaries.

Gottfried remains committed to the view that national groups have a right to preserve themselves and remains firmly opposed to mass immigration.

Over the decades, Gottfried has often been on the receiving end of what he said appears like a coordinated effort from conservative elites to restrict conservative viewpoints.

He has repeatedly criticized this effort to silence alternative opinions. But Gottfried, who is Jewish, said he is quite willing to censor people who say dumb things on his side about race, power and global conspiracies.

This may shock you, and shock many of my followers, but I think you have to create filters in the end, Gottfried said. Its just where you place them.
A woman was killed when her Jeep left the road and crashed into a wall and trees on Minnesota's Iron Range early Monday morning.

The crash was reported around 1:40 a.m. on southbound Hwy. 53 near King Road just north of Orr, where a Jeep Grand Cherokee crossed into northbound lanes and went into the east ditch.

"The Jeep then struck a rock wall and several trees before coming to rest and starting on fire," the Minnesota State Patrol says.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The sole occupant of the vehicle was Amy Lynn Johnson, 40, of Virginia, Minnesota, who died at the scene.

At this time it's not known if Johnson was wearing a seat belt. Police say alcohol was not a factor in the crash.

Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcements latest version of events, and may be subject to change.
CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY)  The Harrison County Grand Jury released its May 2025 indictments on Tuesday, which include people charged with counts including attempted murder, bank robbery and incest.

Nele Thuening

One of the more notable indictments on the list is for Nele Thuening, 53, of West Columbia, Texas, who was charged in August 2024 after allegedly leading law enforcement on a multi-county chase in a semi-truck while she was under the influence of alcohol.

On Aug. 28, law enforcement were alerted to be on the lookout for a semi truck that reportedly struck another vehicle and fled the scene onto Interstate 79, according to a criminal complaint. A second alert was also put out after law enforcement learned that the driver had driven to a 7-Eleven in Quiet Dell and gotten into an altercation with a customer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Viewer-submitted video at the time showed Thuening speeding away from law enforcement when they confronted her in Quiet Dell. Court documents said the chase continued into Lewis County, where deputies deployed stop sticks, causing the truck to roll onto its side. At that point, Thuening allegedly kicked out a window of the truck and climbed out before engaging in a struggle with law enforcement, who eventually detained her.

Thuening was indicted on one count each of the following charges:

Fleeing in a vehicle from law enforcement with reckless indifference

Fleeing DUI

DUI with injury

Operating a commercial vehicle while DUI

Leaving the scene

Man charged with shooting near Doddridge County house

Andrew Debolt

Another person indicted in May was Andrew Debolt, 41, of Shinnston, who is accused of stabbing a victim at the post office in Enterprise in November 2024.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Deputies with the Harrison County Sheriffs Department said in a criminal complaint that Debolt stabbed the victim two times in the abdomen and cut the person on the right side of the face with a knife.

Debolt has been indicted on the following charges:

Burglary  one count

Attempted first-degree murder  one count

Malicious assault  two counts

Chantal Skinner

Also on the indictment list is Chantal Skinner, 39, of Clarksburg, a woman accused of the armed robbery of the MVB Bank location on Main Street in Clarksburg in June 2024. Skinner allegedly entered the bank with a mask and hoodie on, told the employee to put money in a bag and said she had a weapon, police officials said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Images released by the Clarksburg Police Department showed that Skinner was armed with a small handgun during the robbery. Following the robbery, she left the bank on foot with $1,147 in cash and left the area, prompting a manhunt by the Clarksburg Police Department.

Skinner was located the following morning after detectives found a vehicle that matched the description of the one Skinner was believed to be driving. Detectives confronted Skinner, who confessed to the robbery and her presentation of a firearm, according to a press release.

Skinner has been indicted on one count of armed robbery of a bank.

Study ranks West Virginia among worst states for police officers. Heres why

Ashlee White

Another person indicted Tuesday was Ashlee White, 25, of Greenwood, a woman who allegedly led law enforcement on a chase across Harrison County in November 2024 with drugs and multiple children inside a vehicle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to a criminal complaint, on Nov. 17, Harrison County deputies saw White, who appeared to be sleeping, in a vehicle parked along U.S. Route 50 near the I-79 North entrance ramp. Deputies said they noticed three children crawling around in the vehicle without car seats, and when they asked White to step out of the vehicle, she bear hugged one of the children, said the devil is a liar and left the scene in her vehicle.

White led deputies on a pursuit along I-79 North, where she was weaving in and out of traffic and crossing all lanes of traffic. She was eventually stopped in the parking lot of Bob Evans in Bridgeport and taken into custody. Deputies said that during a search of the vehicle, they found a white powder substance on the floor, which tested positive for fentanyl. They also located two loaded firearms and several AR-15 style magazines full of ammunition.

White has been indicted on one count of fleeing with reckless indifference and three counts of gross child neglect creating risk of death or serious injury.

Other notable indictments on the list for May include:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kiley Wagner, 46, of Bridgeport, a woman indicted for DUI with serious injury after allegedly striking a West Virginia Division of Highways worker while drunk in March 2024.

Wesley King, 41, of Soldotna, Alaska, a man indicted for wanton endangerment in September 2024 after allegedly discharging a sawed-off shotgun following a drug deal.

Gage Claypool, 21, of Clarksburg, a man indicted on two counts of wanton endangerment and one count of conspiracy after allegedly firing a 9mm pistol in North View in October 2024.

Bartholomew Kennedy, 26, a man indicted on two counts of first-degree sexual assault.

James Ross, 62, of Clarksburg, a man indicted on one count of incest and one count of third-degree sexual assault.

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 WBOY.com.
As the investigation into the death of a man in custody of the Montgomery County Jail continues, a woman is sharing what happened just before the arrest.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

As reported on News Center 7 11:00, April Dabe said 25-year-old Christian Black attacked her and stole her car days before his death.

>>RELATED: Help me; Man makes plea in final moments at Montgomery County Jail before death

TRENDING STORIES:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She said Black absolutely did not deserve to die.

Last Thursday, Montgomery County Sheriff Rob Streck put 10 jail employees on paid leave.

The next day, the Montgomery County Coroner ruled Blacks death a homicide and said he died of positional asphyxia.

Dabe said Dayton police interviewed her as part of their homicide investigation.

Now, she wants to share her story.

Theres going to be people who see this story tonight and say, look, this all happened to you six weeks ago, why are you now coming forward at this point? News Center 7s John Bedell asked.

>>RELATED: Murdered right in front of our eyes; Family of man who died in jail custody calling for charges

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Because I was fearful at first, and I didnt know what to do. I was very conflicted whether or not to come out, Dabe said.

Dabe is talking about what happened to her on March 23 in the middle of an overnight shift at a Beavercreek nursing home.

Hello everybody, how are you? Dabe said.

Dabe was going live on social media, talking with her friends, like she always does during breaks.

Just to decompress from everything thats going on at work, she said.

The end of the video recording she gave News Center 7 shows what happened next.

So this right here, I notice him and Im very uncomfortable when I notice him. Im trying to look around to see if hes coming around the car, Dabe said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dabe said she fell out of her car after a man punched her in the face.

An Englewood police report identifies Dabes attacker as Christian Black.

And then I just ran inside as fast as I could, didnt look back, she said.

The recording shows Black adjusting Dabes phone before he takes off in her car.

Englewood police body camera video shows officers arresting Black later that night.

>> RELATED: Man jumps fence, swims in pond after crash in Englewood

Well get him secured, one officer said on the body camera video.

Black was booked into the Montgomery County Jail and days later, died at the hospital.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dabe said Black did not deserve what happened to him.

Absolutely not. No. No, she said.

She feels what happened to her could provide important context for the investigation into his death.

Nobody put out there the real story of what happened to me. And I believe that thats important for it to be out there. To know what frame of mind maybe he was in that night, what, how he acted that night. Which lines up with how he acted in the jail. Very angry, Dabe said.

As of now, the Dayton Police Department is handling the investigation.

>>RELATED: He was my protector; Family speaks out after 25-year-old man dies in jail custody

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They will have the Prosecutors Office review it, which is procedural.

However, theres a possibility that this could go to another county prosecutor to avoid any conflict of interest.

News Center 7 will continue to follow this story.

[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
HONOLULU (KHON2)  An Oahu mother seriously injured in a fireworks explosion on New Years Day is finally home after spending four months in the hospital recovering from life-threatening burns.

The Aloha Stadium Swap Meet set to make its move

Charmaine Benigno was discharged from Straub Medical Center this week, receiving an emotional send-off from hospital staff. The mother of two suffered burns to more than 80% of her body and was the last burn patient still hospitalized following the explosion in the Aliamanu neighborhood.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Oh my God, hi, thank you guys so much, Benigno said, clapping as she was greeted by the medical team. I will never forget you guys. Its been so hard, but you made it worth it.

Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

Benigno was among more than 20 people injured in the Jan. 1 explosion. Doctors said she sustained the most severe burns of any survivor.

Initially, we had to get the burned skin off  about 80% of her body, said Dr. David Cho, a surgeon at Straub Benioff Medical Center. We havent actually reconstructed anything yet. Were coming back every few weeks to do the skin grafts. So, were slowly fixing and building step by step, but it doesnt happen all at once.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cho said knowing Benigno was a mother helped inspire the medical team throughout her recovery.

We all knew she had little kids to get home to, he said. That made it special.

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

The New Years explosion triggered the largest surge of patients Straub Medical Center has seen in its 42-year history. Despite multiple arrests, no one has been charged in connection with the blast.

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.
___

NOTE CONTENTS: This story contains a term that refers to a racial slur.

___

A video showing a Minnesota woman at a playground last week openly admitting to using a racist slur against a Black child has garnered millions of views. Maybe equally viral has been a crowdfunding effort that has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to help the woman now relocate her family.

In the video, a man in Rochester, a city roughly 90 miles (145 kilometers) south of Minneapolis, confronts the woman for calling a 5-year-old boy the N-word. The woman appears to double-down on the racist term and flips off the man confronting her with both of her middle fingers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The woman, who could not be reached for comment, has since amassed over $700,000 through Christian fundraising platform GiveSendGo for relocation expenses because of threats she received over the video. The fundraising page said she used the word out of frustration because the boy went through her 18-month-old child's diaper bag. The Associated Press has not verified this assertion.

I called the kid out for what he was, she wrote, adding that the online videos have caused my family, and myself, great turmoil.

The flurry of monetary contributions has reignited multiple debates, from whether racist language and attacks are becoming more permissible to the differences between cancel culture and consequence culture. Many want to see the woman face some sort of comeuppance for using a slur, especially toward a child. Others say despite her words, she does not deserve to be harassed.

The NAACP Rochester chapter started its own fundraising campaign for the childs family. The GoFundMe page had raised $340,000 when it was closed Saturday per the wishes of the family, who want privacy, said the civil rights organization. It was speaking on behalf of the family of the child, who the organization said was on the autism spectrum.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This was not simply offensive behaviorit was an intentional racist, threatening, hateful and verbal attack against a child, and it must be treated as such, the NAACP Rochester chapter said in a statement.

The Rochester Police Department investigated and submitted findings to the Rochester City Attorneys Office for consideration of a charging decision, spokesperson Amanda Grayson said in a statement Monday.

GiveSendGo did not immediately respond Tuesday to a request for comment from The Associated Press.

Some say defending the woman defends racism

The donations did and did not surprise Dr. Henry Taylor, director for the Center of Urban Studies at the University at Buffalo.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But shifts in the political and cultural climate have emboldened some people to express racist and bigoted views against people of color or those they consider outsiders. A more recent backlash, from the White House to corporate boardrooms, against diversity, equality and inclusion initiatives have amplified those feelings.

The racism hovering beneath the surface" comes from blame, Taylor said. "People are given someone to hate and someone to blame for all of the problems and challenges that they are facing themselves, Taylor said.

The volume of monetary contributions in the Rochester case is reminiscent of the surge of support for individuals like Kyle Rittenhouse, Daniel Penny and George Zimmerman. Rittenhouse, Penny and Zimmerman were cleared of wrongdoing or legally found to have acted in self-defense or in defense of others  Penny and Zimmerman after the death of a Black victim and Rittenhouse after fatally shooting two white protesters at a racial justice demonstration against police.

Backlash against cancel culture persists

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the womans case, a contingent of supporters just want to fight cancel culture, said Franciska Coleman, an assistant professor of law at University of Wisconsin Law School, who has written about cancel culture and social regulation of speech. For some it can include donating to anyone who people are trying to cancel, Coleman said.

Some people are focused on how it just seems too much that this mother of two young kids is getting death threats and rape threats, Coleman said.

Conservative commentators have gone online to applaud her for not capitulating to angry internet mobs while acknowledging she used a hateful word. No ones excusing it. But she didnt deserve to be treated like a domestic terrorist, conservative podcast host Matt Walsh said in a Facebook post.

Some fight over justifications and consequences

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Theres an important distinction, Coleman said, between cancel culture and consequence culture. The latter is about holding people accountable for actions and words that cause injury such as with this poor child.

That is what many people want to see in this Rochester womans case. Because a formal system of punishment may not impose consequences for the womans racist behavior, people who support cancel culture believe that they have to do it informally, Coleman said.

She and Taylor agree that, in conventional societal thinking, using racist slurs against someone who has frustrated or even provoked you is never acceptable. Those who think otherwise, even now, are seen as being on the fringes.

But donors on the womans GiveSendGo page unabashedly used racist language against the boy, prompting the site to turn off the comments section. Others excused her behavior as acting out of aggravation. There are communities where the racial slur is only unacceptable in racially mixed company, Coleman said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Social media websites and crowdfunding platforms have helped people around the world speak with each other and with their wallets. Its intensified by the anonymity these platforms allow.

Feeling that no one will know who you are enables you to act on your feelings, on your beliefs in an aggressive and even mean-spirited way that you might not do if you were exposed, Taylor said.

___

This story was first published on May 7, 2025. It was updated on May 8, 2025, to make clear that Franciska Coleman, an assistant professor of law, was expressing an opinion of a certain group, not her own, when she said people who support cancel culture feel they have to informally impose consequences.

___

Tang reported from Phoenix. Raza reported from Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Lucianna Fox, the woman convicted of shooting and killing a street performer outside of the H.E. Holmes MARTA station in 2016, lost her appeal effort and will remain in prison for life.

In November 2016, Fox shot and killed Leroy Tin Man Midyette after she said he hit her vehicle with a cart.

As previously reported by Channel 2 partner the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Midyette was known as Tin Man due to the silver paint he wore while dancing. He often performed outside of the H.E. Holmes MARTA station.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The two had gotten into an argument after Midyette pushed his belongings across an access road to the MARTA station parking lot, and Fox told him to move his cart, but he refused, saying she should drive around him.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fox hit Midyettes cart with her car, reversed and hit it again, then drove away. After, Midyette confronted her about it at a nearby stop sign and she got out of the car and shot him, according to prosecutors.

TRENDING STORIES:

After, she called the police and Midyette died. MARTA Surveillance cameras caught it on video, according to authorities.

The Georgia Supreme Court announced the dismissal of Foxs appeal Tuesday, saying Fox had not proven her attorney at trial was ineffective, nor that her counsels performance was constitutionally deficient.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The court said that Fox had tried to claim on appeal that her lawyer not requesting a jury charge on defense of accident because she claimed she didnt want to hit anyone while firing a weapon at Midyette.

The justices also note in their rejection of her appeal that Foxs testimony changes during trial, and claims of self-defense were inaccurate. Witnesses at trial testified to the fact that Midyette never had a weapon, never struck Foxs vehicle with a cart and did not threaten her at any point.

The court said Fox had failed to prove any plain errors were committed by her counsel at trial and did not show that her claims, if born out, would have impacted the trial outcome.

We conclude that in light of the evidence at trial, including Foxs admission that she fired the shot that killed Midyette, she failed to show that she was deprived of a fair trial, and affirmed her conviction.

Fox is currently serving a life sentence at Pulaski State Prison for Midyettes murder.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP)  A woman is facing more charges in connection to a crash last week and the death of a person involved, according to Greensboro police.

Betsabe Cano Santillo, 45, was driving a Toyota 4-runner northbound on Groometown Road, where she went left of center at a high rate of speed and entered the intersection at West Gate City Boulevard.

Santillo had a red light for her direction of travel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Toyota first crashed into a Nissan Versa traveling east on West Gate City Boulevard then crashed into a 1991 Honda Accord traveling west on West Gate City Boulevard.

Santillo, the driver of the Nissan, a passenger in the Toyota and a passenger in the Honda Accord were taken by EMS to local hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries.

The driver of the Honda, Michael Farrow, was taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Santillo was charged with no operators license, reckless driving to endanger, failure to stop at a steady red light, wrong way on a dual lane highway and failure to reduce speed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Saturday. Farrow died, and Santillo was also charged with manslaughter and misdemeanor death by vehicle.

She is currently in the Guilford County Jail under a $25,000 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 FOX8 WGHP.
OGDEN (KSNT)  Police in Riley County intervened after a reported road rage incident that resulted in one arrest.

The Riley County Police Department (RCPD) reports the situation happened just after noon on Tuesday, May 6 near the intersection of 68th Avenue and Deer Trail Road near the Ogden area. A 59-year-old Manhattan woman allegedly armed herself with a handgun and fired it during a road rage incident involving a 61-year-old man.

No injuries were reported in connection to the incident. However, police did arrest the Manhattan woman around 1:40 p.m. on the same day in the 2700 block of Brookhollow Court for one charge of aggravated assault.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Police release name after Friday night killing in central Topeka, arrest made

For more crime 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.
We recently published a list of Jim Cramer Reveals Trumps Potential Secret Weapon In China Trade Talks & Discusses These 10 Stocks. In this article, we are going to take a look at where General Motors Company (NYSE:GM) stands against other stocks that Jim Cramer recently discussed.

In a recent appearance on CNBCs Squawk on the Street, Jim Cramer discussed the impacts that tariffs have had on businesses. He shared that firms are scrambling to diversify their supply chains from China as higher costs affect business margins. Using the example of the firm known for making Monopoly and Nerf, Cramer commented:

Well I mean look everybodys scrambling, I know that. . .[toy companys] scrambling everywhere to be able to make it so that a nine dollar toy doesnt cost 19. And I think that our companies are, often, not given the credit that they deserve to be able to get things to move around, pull their weight, do things overseas, David, its not like theyre the only ones, China, that can make this stuff. Cause the stuff is not like, its not like making a Grace Blackwell GB200 NVIDIA chip.

One material thats caught Cramers attention is ethane. He believes that ethanes role in the plastics supply chain and the fact that China cant make it can enable the material to play a key role in President Trumps trade talks. Cramer commented:

We have to focus on this ethylene, because its the one thing that theyre panicked on in China. Theyre not panicked on copper, theyre panicked that theyre not getting ethane, which makes ethylene, which makes plastic. Because boy do they ever make make plastic.

In fact, Cramer went as far as to advise the President and his team to leverage US ethane production against China:

But the building block of all that stuff is Louisiana, ethane. If the President and Navarros and these trade guys were to say, you know what guys, we saw that you wouldnt tariff ethane, cause you need it so bad, were done, were gonna ship it to Korea. Then see what happens. Thats what they should do. Thats like, free advice there.

As for the car industry, Cramer believes that Trumps advisor Peter Navarro wont be satisfied even if some car companies build their assembly plans in America. Peter Navarro would say over and over, we need the engines made we dont want the assembly, he believes.

Our Methodology

To make our list of the stocks that Jim Cramer talked about, we listed down the stocks he mentioned during CNBCs Squawk on the Street aired on May 1st.

For these stocks, we also mentioned the number of hedge fund investors. Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletters strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 373.4% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 218 percentage points (see more details here).
A grand jury has indicted an Arizona woman on seven felony charges related to a paternity scheme in which she allegedly faked a pregnancy with The Bachelor Season 26 star Clayton Echard.

Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell announced the indictment of Laura Michelle Owens on Tuesday, saying the grand jury had indicted her on perjury, forgery, tampering with evidence and carrying out a fraudulent scheme between May 2023 and June 2024.

Owens, who once filed a lawsuit seeking child support from Echard before saying shed had a miscarriage, is accused of altering an ultrasound image, fabricating a pregnancy video and lying multiple times under oath.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Echard posted an elated video to social media when the news broke.

Justice is finally served, he said, adding, This nightmare is over. I am so ready to not have to think about this anymore. ... I have not been this happy. This is a weight of two years lifted off my shoulders. It feels good.

Owens issued a lengthy statement claiming the charges were influenced by an online Justice for Clayton movement that led a coordinated harassment campaign against her.

These charges appear to be the product of intense public pressure, not impartial judgment, part of her statement read. They reflect a system that responded to online outrage, ignored procedural protections, and moved forward based on narrative rather than fact. It is difficult not to see them as part of a broader effort to discredit me, discourage me, and make an example out of me.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She maintains that she did not fake a pregnancy.

Owens indictment comes nearly a year after she lost her paternity lawsuit against Echard, in which she claimed hed fathered her unborn twins after a one-night stand. Echard maintains that the two did not have sexual intercourse.

Clayton Echard appears on an episode of "The Bachelor: Women Tell All." Craig Sjodin via Getty Images

The judge in the case said Owens complaint was premature at best. At worst, however, fraudulent and made to incite communication, a relationship, or both, with Echard.

The court also supported Echards lawyers claims that Owens, the daughter of San Francisco Bay Area radio legend Ronn Owens, has attempted such a scheme before, with the judge saying she has a pattern of similar, if not identical behavior, and court involvement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Owens lost her appeal in the case last month.

A Medium account that appears to belong to Owens posted a lengthy address in September saying that Echards supporters distorted my genuine efforts to find a way forward with the pregnancy, twisting it into a narrative that I was trying to extort him into a relationship.

The paternity lawsuit, the post said, would force Echard to come up with his own idea of a schedule, see that the court encouraged joint custody so kids could have both parents in their lives even if the relationship between those parents didnt work out, and also compel him to take a prenatal paternity test.

Related...
A woman was killed by an alligator Tuesday, May 6, while on Lake Kissimmee.

The Florida Fish and Wildfire Conservation Commission lists Lake Kissimmee as a Florida lake with the second highest population of alligators in the state.

 Woman dies in Florida alligator attack. What we know

Tuesday's fatal alligator attack came the day after a Collier County man became the first person in Florida to be killed by a bear.

Alligator attack in Florida kills woman on Lake Kissimmee

The Polk County Sheriff's Office said two people were kayaking on Lake Kissimmee on May 6 when one of them was attacked by an alligator.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 Alligator kills woman canoeing on Lake Kissimmee

In a radio transmission with the sheriff's office acquired by ClickOrlando, an official said she was with her husband when, "Gator grabbed her out of the canoe. He tried to fight the gator off. Were at the last place he saw her."

Her body was spotted from a helicopter, an FWC official said.

The woman was killed on Lake Kissimmee, near the mouth of Tiger Creek, officials said.

Where is Lake Kissimmee in Florida?

Lake Kissimmee is about 35 miles south of Orlando in Central Florida.

How many alligators are there in Florida?

Alligators can be found in all 67 of Florida's counties, along with nine other states. In Florida, there's an estimated 1.3 million alligators, according to the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Services.

Lake Kissimmee rates No. 2 in Florida for number of alligators

According to data from the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Lake Kissimmee had the second-highest number of alligators in 2024, with an estimated population of about 16,184.

Top 20 most alligator-infested lakes in Florida

Lake Okeechobee: Estimated population of about 33,542 Lake Kissimmee: Estimated population of about 16,184 Lake Jesup: Estimated population of about 14,518 Orange Lake: Estimated population of about 12,032 St. Johns River, Lake Poinsett: Estimated population of about 10,951 Everglades WMA: Estimated population of about 8,301 St. Johns River, Puzzle Lake: Estimated population of about 7,585 T.M. Goodwin, Broadmoor Unit: Estimated population of about 7,518 Lake Griffin: Estimated population of about 7,370 St. Johns River, Lake Harney: Estimated population of about 7,110 St. Johns River, Tosohatchee: Estimated population of about 6,198 Lake Tohopekaliga: Estimated population of about 5,716 Lake George: Estimated population of about 5,412 Lake Apopka: Estimated population of about 4,613 Kissimmee River: Estimated population of about 4,570 St. Johns River Upper Basin canals: Estimated population of about 4,063 St. Johns River, Lake Hellen Blazes: Estimated population of about 3,890 Lake Rousseau: Estimated population of about 3,631 Lake Hatchineha: Estimated population of about 3,524 Lochloosa Lake: Estimated population of about 3,218

How many people have been killed by alligators in Florida?

The FWC said there have been 487 unprovoked alligator bites on people between 1948 and 2024. Of those, 339 were major bites and 27 were fatal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The last fatal attack occurred in 2023 while a woman was walking her dog along the edge of a retention pond in St. Lucie County. The alligator was 10 feet long.

What do I do if I see an alligator?

If you encounter an alligator that is believed to pose a threat to people, pets or property, call the FWCsNuisance Alligator Hotline, tollfree at 1866FWCGATOR (3924286).

89-year-old man becomes first person killed by bear in Florida

Robert Markel of Jerome, was found dead near his home in rural Collier County on May 5, the victim of an apparent bear attack. Also killed was a dog.

Authorities said it is the first time in recorded Florida history a black bear has killed a human.

Three bears in the area have been killed and taken to Gainesville for DNA analysis.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Contributors: C.A. Bridges, USA TODAY Network-Florida; Andy Kuppers, Lakeland Ledger; Tomas Rodriguez, Tayeba Hussein, Naples Daily News

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Where are most alligators in Florida? See Top 20 list, Lake Okeechobee
Lake Kissimmee in Florida. (Photo credit: Getty Images)

A 61-year-old woman was killed by an alligator Tuesday afternoon while boating with her husband near a popular state park in central Florida, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

The attack occurred in the afternoon at the mouth of Tiger Creek where it feeds into Lake Kissimmee, roughly 70 miles south of Orlando. FWC officials said Cynthia Diekema was killed after the canoe she was riding in with her husband passed over an alligator hidden beneath them in roughly 2.5 feet of water.

"This is not believed to be a predatory incident, but simply a defense incident where they came upon the alligator beneath the water's edge and when the canoe struck it, it caused a reaction," FWC Maj. Evan Laskowski said during a news conference on Wednesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Diekema was sitting in the bow of the canoe, when the alligator thrashed and tipped the boat over. "She ended up on top of the alligator in the water and was bitten. Her husband attempted to intervene was but unsuccessful," Laskowski said.

He last saw his wife as the gator dragged her under the water. She was not seen again until her body was recovered nearby. Her husband was reportedly uninjured.

An alligator swims in a Florida lake. (Photo credit: Getty Images)

A contracted trapper has captured two alligators near Lake Kissimmee since the attack. According to Laskowski, the first alligator-measuring 11 feet, 4 inches-matched the description given by the survivor. A second gator, estimated to be between 10 and 11 feet long, was also captured and euthanized.

While fatal alligator attacks are rare, this marks the second serious gator incident near Lake Kissimmee in recent months. In March, a kayaker survived an attack on a canal connecting Tiger Lake to Lake Kissimmee. According to the FWC, there are about 1.3 million alligators in Florida. The state typically has between 10 and 20 alligator-related incidents annually, only a small fraction of which result in death.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Since 1948, the FWC has documented more than 450 unprovoked alligator attacks on humans in Florida, about 30 of which have been fatal.

Officials remind the public never to feed alligators, always keep pets and small children away from the water's edge and avoid swimming outside designated areas-especially during dawn and dusk when alligators are most active.
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCT)  On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, a woman in Lumberton, N.C. pleaded guilty to bank fraud and misuse of social security numbers.

Jillian Scott, 31, faces a maximum penalty of 35 years in prison.

Court documents say that Scott was employed as a customer call representative at State Employees Credit Union (SECU) and worked remotely from her home on a laptop issued by SECU. Through this position, Scott had access to personal and account information of SECU members. Between November 2018, and June 2021, she used her position to access the bank accounts of more than 20 customers who had called the member service line regarding their accounts. The customers were unaware that Scott was accessing their accounts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Scott would use the personal information she got from customers accounts to create fake PayPal and CashApp accounts, and Bill Pay checks in their names. She would then use these accounts to transfer the customers money to her own bank accounts. Scott made nearly 700 fraudulent CashApp transactions, 120 fraudulent PayPal transactions, and 47 fraudulent Bill Pay transactions, for a total loss of nearly $80,000.

Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle accepted the plea. The United States Postal Inspection Service is investigating the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Toby Lathan is prosecuting the 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 WNCT.
CHICAGO  Authorities in Chicago are asking for help in the search for a woman who officers say has been missing for more than three weeks.

According to Chicago police, 51-year-old Carrie Ferguson has been missing since Monday, April 14.

LATEST CASES: Missing people in Chicagoland

Officers said Ferguson was last seen the vicinity of West Madison Street and Cicero Avenue, to West Madison Street and South Pulaski Road, as well as North Avenue to Linder Avenue, in Austin, on the citys West Side.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Police say the missing woman, who stands 5-foot-7 and weighs around 140 pounds, has brown eyes and brown hair.

Authorities provided details on the missing womans disappearance in a news release shared on Tuesday afternoon, but did not say what she was last spotted wearing.

Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of 51-year-old Carrie Ferguson is asked to contact the Area Five Special Victims Unit at 312-746-6554 or dial 911.

Those with information that could help authorities in their investigation can also leave a tip at CPDtip.com. Tips can be filed anonymously.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  A woman who was accused of having fake identification papers pleaded guilty on Wednesday, according to court records.

Emileth Nohemi Briceno Rodriguez pleaded guilty to possession of a fraudulent permanent resident card.

Reports said that the number that appeared on a permanent resident card possessed by Briceno Rodriguez was linked to a Chinese national. A query on the permanent resident card possessed by Briceno Rodriguez was found to be linked to a Cuban national.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Her bond was continued ahead of her sentencing date, scheduled for August 19 at 11 a.m.

The other woman involved, Dicla Emirlania Perez Rodriguez, has a pretrial scheduled at 11 a.m. Thursday.

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.






Ansley Baker says she was asked to show her ID to prove her gender after a security guard kicked her out of a bathroom stall at Boston's Liberty Hotel

Baker tells PEOPLE the experience was "humiliating" and "horrible to go through," but says she's thankful for the support she's received since

The Liberty Hotel has suspended the security guard and said it is retraining staff and donating to a local LGBTQ+ organization in the aftermath of the incident











A Boston woman says she was kicked out of a hotel restroom and forced to show her ID to prove her gender after security accused her of being a man.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ansley Baker tells PEOPLE that she and her girlfriend, Liz Victor, were confronted by security at the Liberty Hotel in Boston while attending a Kentucky Derby party there on Saturday, May 3, as first reported by CBS affiliate WBZ.

Baker, 28, says that the couple was confronted in the women's bathroom of the hotel when a security guard entered the facility and began "banging" on Baker's stall door while Victor, who was also in the bathroom but not using a stall, waited for her.

"I hadn't even tied my shorts yet. I walked out and there was a security guard just standing in the middle of the bathroom right in front of my stall, telling me to get out, that I was a man in the women's room," she says.

Baker, who was born a woman and identifies as a woman, says she was asked to show her ID to the security guard to prove her gender after she stepped out of the stall.



Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She says that both she and Victor, 27, were "heated" over the request, but tells PEOPLE, "I gave him my ID because there's this huge guy standing there intimidating me in the bathroom."

She and Victor left after the incident, but Baker says that on their way out of the bathroom, she was yelled at by other women waiting in line, who said things like, "Get him out of here."

Baker says the whole experience was "humiliating," especially because it played out "in the bathroom in the middle of everyone." While she tells PEOPLE that she's not bothered by the "comments and weird looks" she sometimes gets while using the women's bathroom, she says she was shaken that the security guard "acted out on that."

"Honestly, my worst nightmare came true," she says.

Courtesy of Ansley Baker Ansley Baker (L) and her girlfriend, Liz Victor (R) Ansley Baker (L) and her girlfriend, Liz Victor (R)

Related: In Their Own Words: Stars on Their Gender Identities

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a statement shared with PEOPLE, a spokesperson for the Liberty Hotel said they "take this matter seriously" and have since suspended the security guard and are "conducting mandatory retraining" for staff about "creating a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQ+ individuals."

The hotel also pledged to donate to a local LGBTQ+ organization on May 17, the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia.

In their statement, the hotel said that the general manager has reached out to both Victor and Baker, but Baker says only her girlfriend has been contacted. She tells PEOPLE that she has experienced "absolute radio silence."

When contacted for a response to Baker's claim, the hotel did not immediately reply.

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.

While she says the experience at the Liberty Hotel was "really rattling," Baker says she's been met with "incredible" support  including from the Boston Mayor's Office of LGBTQIA2S+ Advancement  since coming forward with her story, which she chose to share because "this isn't the first time this has happened, and unfortunately I don't think it will be the last."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Baker says the experience was "horrible to go through," but adds that "everyone's support has just meant the world. I hope everyone gets that who has to go through something like this."



Read the original article on People
We recently published a list of Jim Cramer Reveals Trumps Potential Secret Weapon In China Trade Talks & Discusses These 10 Stocks. In this article, we are going to take a look at where McDonalds Corporation (NYSE:MCD) stands against other stocks that Jim Cramer recently discussed.

In a recent appearance on CNBCs Squawk on the Street, Jim Cramer discussed the impacts that tariffs have had on businesses. He shared that firms are scrambling to diversify their supply chains from China as higher costs affect business margins. Using the example of the firm known for making Monopoly and Nerf, Cramer commented:

Well I mean look everybodys scrambling, I know that. . .[toy companys] scrambling everywhere to be able to make it so that a nine dollar toy doesnt cost 19. And I think that our companies are, often, not given the credit that they deserve to be able to get things to move around, pull their weight, do things overseas, David, its not like theyre the only ones, China, that can make this stuff. Cause the stuff is not like, its not like making a Grace Blackwell GB200 NVIDIA chip.

One material thats caught Cramers attention is ethane. He believes that ethanes role in the plastics supply chain and the fact that China cant make it can enable the material to play a key role in President Trumps trade talks. Cramer commented:

We have to focus on this ethylene, because its the one thing that theyre panicked on in China. Theyre not panicked on copper, theyre panicked that theyre not getting ethane, which makes ethylene, which makes plastic. Because boy do they ever make make plastic.

In fact, Cramer went as far as to advise the President and his team to leverage US ethane production against China:

But the building block of all that stuff is Louisiana, ethane. If the President and Navarros and these trade guys were to say, you know what guys, we saw that you wouldnt tariff ethane, cause you need it so bad, were done, were gonna ship it to Korea. Then see what happens. Thats what they should do. Thats like, free advice there.

As for the car industry, Cramer believes that Trumps advisor Peter Navarro wont be satisfied even if some car companies build their assembly plans in America. Peter Navarro would say over and over, we need the engines made we dont want the assembly, he believes.

Our Methodology

To make our list of the stocks that Jim Cramer talked about, we listed down the stocks he mentioned during CNBCs Squawk on the Street aired on May 1st.

For these stocks, we also mentioned the number of hedge fund investors. Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletters strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 373.4% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 218 percentage points (see more details here).
MADISON, Wis. (WFRV)  A 26-year-old woman in Wisconsin was arrested in the early hours of Tuesday morning on several battery charges and property damage after allegedly assaulting her roommate.

The Madison Police Department reported that officers responded to a fight between roommates around 2:25 a.m. on Tuesday on South Hancock Street.

19-year-old Chicagoan arrested in Wisconsin on drug charges, possession stolen firearm

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One woman reportedly broke a window, damaged more property and physically assaulted a roommate. Other roommates attempted to intervene, but she reportedly tried to fight them as well.

26-year-old Mia King of Madison was subsequently taken into custody for the following:

Two counts, disorderly conduct

Three counts, battery

Criminal property damage

Second-degree reckless endangerment

Deputies: Driver crashes into postal worker in Wisconsin after waiving to Amish farmer

No additional details were 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.
(COLORADO)  Several Colorado law enforcement agencies have called for a shift in legislation and the upper courts due to contradictory laws that are allegedly endangering public safety.

On Tuesday, April 29, the Teller County Sheriff, Jason Mikesell, called on state lawmakers who have introduced recent immigration laws. Sheriff Mikesell argued that bills such as HB23-1100 and SB25-276 protect criminals and prevent law enforcement from detaining people with criminal histories or sharing information about them with federal agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

TCSO, ICE: Colorado legislation hinders law enforcement

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We as a state are a sanctuary state; we are protecting convicted criminals that are on parole, in prisons, in jails, and on probation, said Sheriff Mikesell.

WATCH THE FULL PRESS CONFERENCE BELOW:

If signed into law, SB25-276 would propose changes to Colorado law, including prohibiting a military force from another state from entering Colorado without the governors permission, unless acting on federal orders or as part of the United States armed forces. The bill passed with a vote of 22-13 in the Senate and passed in the Colorado House on Saturday, May 4, and now heads over to Governor Jared Polis desk for approval. HB23-1100 prohibits state and local law enforcement from signing new agreements to hold immigration-related detainees on behalf of the federal government.

We are in unprecedented times, where people are being unjustly targeted, incarcerated, removed, deported; we sit in a position where we may be able to push back and help out to provide some protection, said Senator Jessie Danielson over SB25-276.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sheriff Mikesell argued that if passed, the bill would put law enforcement in a very critical position as it puts them between federal and state law. We cant just say no to laws. But it also identifies Colorado as being the one state that really identifies and says, We will not follow federal law.'

Local Lawyer: Many detained in COS DEA Operation may not be able to get a trial before being deported

When asked about Sheriff Mikesells statement, a spokesperson for the Governors Office provided FOX21 News with a statement and added that Colorado is not a sanctuary state.

Colorado is not a sanctuary state, and Governor Polis continues urging Congress to secure the border and do their job and pass comprehensive immigration reform, the statement read. The Governors office has expressed concerns about the original version of SB25-276, and has been working with legislators, as well as stakeholders, including law enforcement, throughout the process on amendments that would help gain his support. The Governor regularly meets with local law enforcement about how Colorado can continue to keep our communities safe.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

ICE Assistant Field Director Robert Coultrip also spoke on Tuesday, April 29, about how state and federal law contradict and further leave law enforcement in a never-ending cycle, as they cannot assist federal agencies.

According to Coultrip, HB19-1124 also hinders ICEs Criminal Alien Program (CAP), a detainer process that allows ICE to make arrests while an individual is in custody. Coultrip said HB19-1124 targets the progress and lets counties release individuals within their normal time range.

If we get here in time, we get them, but if we dont, we dont, and they are released back to the community, said Coultrip. He added that some counties allow them to take individuals in custodial environments, while others do not.

On May 6, District Court Judge Charlotte N. Sweeney concluded that the federal government could not use the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to remove Venezuelans from Colorado who have been accused of belonging to a gang called Tren de Aragua (TdA). On May 2, Sweeney also required the federal government to provide 21 days notice to anyone it seeks to deport so they can contest their removal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rally held to protest bust on illegal nightclub

FOX21 News also previously spoke to David McDivitt, who explained that the federal government does not need to use the act for those who have been in the U.S. less than two years and entered illegally.

Consequences of not following federal law could soon be seen across the state. On April 28, President Trump signed an executive order targeting sanctuary cities and states. The order says that those states that do not comply with federal law could lose funding.

Teller County Commissioner Dan Williams said that the order could put Colorado in danger of losing $18.4 billion in federal funding.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

You wont recognize Colorado after this summer if we lose federal funding, Williams said. I would ask the legislature to overturn these bills that Jason [Mikesell] talked about, to ask yourself why youre preventing local law enforcement from working with federal law enforcement.

On Friday, May 2, the Department of Justice sued Colorado and Denver for allegedly interfering with federal efforts to enforce immigration laws.

Colorado is not a sanctuary state. The State of Colorado works with local, state and federal law enforcement regularly and we value our partnerships with local, county and federal law enforcement agencies to make Colorado safer. If the courts say that any Colorado law is not valid then we will follow the ruling. We are not going to comment on the merits of the lawsuit, a spokesperson with the Colorado Governors Office told our sister station, FOX31 in Denver, about the lawsuit.

The San Miguel County Sheriffs Office also spoke up against the executive order, with Sheriff Bill Masters saying the order was an attempt to federalize the Sheriffs Office to do the current administrations bidding on their political cause of the day.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Not since the Runaway Slave Act of 1850 has the Federal Government attempted to federalize and use local peacekeepers to fulfill its political objectives, the statement Sheriff Masters released via Facebook said. Many Sheriffs of that era refused to enforce (even under penalty of law) the Runaway Slave Act. As concerned as I am regarding federalization of local peacekeepers for immigration enforcement, I also see this current attempt as opening the door for future administrations to consider requiring local Sheriffs to enforce federal laws to arrest firearm owners, political opponents, protestors, etc. Although I am Sheriff of this great county for only another 30 days, I want to assure our local residents that during my short remaining tenure, I will follow Colorado law and not permit the federal government to use my office for political purposes.

Earlier in March, the Colorado Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP) also appealed to the Colorado Legislature to make a change, as consequences of the current policies were not theoretical and are tragically real, measured in lives lost, communities traumatized, and public spaces rendered unsafe.

All the counties in Colorado, all 64, have said that we will stop working with the state of Colorado, said Williams. Thats unheard of, we dont even think about that because we respect the rule of law. I ask the state to respect the rule of law as well.

FOX21 News reached out to the Governors Office for comment over contradicting laws that could hinder local law enforcement, and will update this article when more information is available.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
WOONSOCKET, R.I. (WPRI)  The apartment above a Woonsocket youth center is being transformed into affordable housing for child care workers.

The second floor of the Sayles Street building is in the process of being renovated into four living spaces. Those spaces will each feature a private bedroom and bathroom, and the residents will share a communal kitchen.

NeighborWorks Blackstone River Valley Executive Director Joe Garlick told 12 News this housing development is unlike anything the city has done before. He said these renovations have been in the works for 30 years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its a small building, but there is some significance here that is well beyond this project, he said.

SEE ALSO: Woonsocket OKs measures addressing homelessness

Garlick expects construction to wrap up later this year and applications to open up this fall.

Its 30-50% of the area-median income, Garlick said. What that translates into is that rent is about $300 to $400 a month.

The renovations are being funded through a housing bond passed by Rhode Island voters in four years ago.

Connecting for Children and Families Erin Spaulding said the goal is to assist these workers with housing and keep them in the industry.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The more employees we have, the more young people we can serve, she said.

According to a 2023 report by the RI Department of Human Services, nearly 40% of early child care educators make less than $18 an hour.

Garlick said he is glad to finally see this project come to fruition.

He said that, while hes seeing attitudes changing towards affordable housing in the state, recent cuts to federal funding are creating new obstacles.

Resources are shrinking, he said. But there seems to be tremendous will on the part of communities to bring in affordable housing.

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.

Follow us on social media:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Close

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

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.
A winning $1 million lottery ticket was sold at a gas station in Worcester and claimed on Tuesday.

The $1 million prize was from $4,000,000 Gold 50X, a $10 game released on Jan. 7. There are still four $1 million and two $4 million prizes remaining to be claimed as of May 7.

The winning $1 million scratch ticket was sold at a Mobil gas station in Worcester.

Overall, at least 502 prizes worth $600 or more were won or claimed in Massachusetts on Tuesday, including 12 in Springfield, 12 in Worcester and 53 in Boston.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Massachusetts State Lottery releases a full list of winning tickets every day. The list only includes winning tickets worth more than $600.

The two largest lottery prizes won so far in 2025 were each worth $15 million. One of the prizes was from a winning Diamond Deluxe scratch ticket sold in Holyoke, and the other was from a 300X scratch ticket sold on Cape Cod.

Massachusetts State Lottery

Read the original article on MassLive.
There has been global consternation in the wake of India launching Operation Sindoor, hitting multiple locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir that New Delhi alleges are terrorist training sites.

In response, Islamabad claimed it struck Indian army positions and shot down several warplanes, calling Indias attacks an act of war.

At least 26 people have been killed overnight in Pakistan and 10 in Indian-administered Kashmir, officials said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is what global leaders are saying about the escalation in hostilities between the nuclear-armed neighbours:

China

Beijing called for restraint from both sides.

China expresses regret over Indias military actions this morning and is concerned about the current developments. China opposes all forms of terrorism, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson said in a statement.

We call on both India and Pakistan to prioritise peace and stability, remain calm and restrained, and avoid taking actions that further complicate the situation.

France

France has called on India and Pakistan to show restraint as the worst violence in two decades flared between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We understand Indias desire to protect itself against the scourge of terrorism, but we obviously call on both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint to avoid escalation and, of course, to protect civilians, Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said in an interview on TF1 television.

Iran

The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei described the military escalation as a serious cause for concern, according to a statement issued by the ministry in Tehran. He expressed the hope that both sides could still de-escalate. Iran also called on both sides to exercise restraint.

Israel

Israels ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, said in a statement that Israel supports Indias right to self-defence. Posting on X, Azar said, Israel supports Indias right for self defense. Terrorists should know theres no place to hide from their heinous crimes against the innocent. #OperationSindoor.

Israel supports Indias right for self defense. Terrorists should know theres no place to hide from their heinous crimes against the innocent. #OperationSindoor   Reuven Azar (@ReuvenAzar) May 7, 2025

Japan

In regard to the terrorist act that occurred in Kashmir on April 22, our country firmly condemns such acts of terrorism. Furthermore, we express strong concern that this situation may lead to further retaliatory exchanges and escalate into a full-scale military conflict.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For the peace and stability of South Asia, we strongly urge both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and stabilise the situation through dialogue, Chief cabinet secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said.

Qatar

Qatar has said it follows with great concern the continuing escalation between India and Pakistan and called for resolving the crisis through diplomatic channels.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes the urgent need to keep communication channels open between India and Pakistan, the statement added.

Statement | Qatar follows with deep concern the continuing escalation between India and Pakistan and calls for resolving the crisis through diplomatic means#MOFAQatar pic.twitter.com/DmRAmjOf1v  Ministry of Foreign Affairs  Qatar (@MofaQatar_EN) May 7, 2025

Russia

Russias Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was deeply concerned about the deepening military confrontation between India and Pakistan and called for both countries to show restraint.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a statement published on the Foreign Ministrys website, Russia, which has warm relations with both nations, said it condemned all forms of terrorism.

Turkey

Turkey urged India and Pakistan to act with common sense adding that Indias latest military action created the risk of an all-out war.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated its support for Pakistans call for an investigation into the April 22 attacks.

United Arab Emirates

UAE Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan called on India and Pakistan to show restraint, reduce tensions and prevent further escalation, according to a government statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

His Highness reaffirmed that diplomacy and dialogue remain the most effective means of peacefully resolving crises, and achieving the shared aspirations of nations for peace, stability, and prosperity, the statement said.

United Nations

The Secretary-General is very concerned about the Indian military operations across the Line of Control and international border. He calls for maximum military restraint from both countries, a spokesperson for Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a statement.

The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan, it added.

United Kingdom

The UK said it was urging India and Pakistan to show restraint and engage in dialogue.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Current tensions between India and Pakistan are a serious concern, British foreign minister David Lammy said in a statement. The UK government is urging India and Pakistan to show restraint and engage in direct dialogue to find a swift, diplomatic path forward.

United States

Its a shame. Just heard about it. I guess people knew something was going to happen based on a little bit of the past. Theyve been fighting for a long time. Theyve been fighting for many, many decades. I hope it ends very quickly, President Donald Trump said.

Separately, the US administration said it was closely following the military escalation in South Asia.

I am monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely. I echo @POTUSs comments earlier today that this hopefully ends quickly and will continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution, Marco Rubio posted on X.
Two weeks after a deadly terror attack in the disputed Kashmir region, India has fired missiles into Pakistan. The Indian government claims that it carried out nine precision strikes at terrorist camps in Kashmir. Pakistan claims to have shot down several Indian jets and is threatening an imminent retaliation against India.

The escalation of tensions is unsurprising. As soon as the April 22 terror attack took place, Indian officials deemed Pakistani terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba culpable and accused the countrys authorities of complicity. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif angrily rejected these accusations and urged the US to steer India towards a course of de-escalation. These recommendations were not heeded by New Delhi.

Now that India and Pakistan are on an escalation course, the big question is what comes next? If youre an optimist, history suggests that a swift de-escalation could be on the cards. The 1999 Kargil War provides a precedent for this scenario. In May 1999, Pakistani troops disguised as Kashmiri militants launched incursions into Indias side of the Line of Control. After over 1,000 casualties on both sides, India recaptured Kargil in June 1999. The war was followed by numerous tit-for-tat attacks in the years that followed. Nevertheless, these escalations did not trigger a major war between nuclear-armed powers in South Asia.

Protesters took to the streets in Pakistan to condemn the Indian missile strikes - AP

Despite these sanguine historical precedents, there are reasons to believe that this conflict is more dangerous. The 1960 Indus Waters Treaty had institutionalised water resource sharing from the Indus regions six major rivers and served as a crisis-proof agent of de-escalation. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modis pausing of this treaty removed this guardrail. Although India lacks the dam and reservoir infrastructure to store large amounts of additional water, Modi appears to be determined to cut off Pakistans access to water resources from the Indus region. This resolve is interpreted in Islamabad as a non-negotiable act of war.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Domestic politics in Pakistan and India also favours conflict. Since the ousting of Prime Minister Imran Khan in April 2022, Pakistan has faced riots and uneven civil-military relations. As the de-escalation of the Kargil War paved the way for Prime Minister Nawaz Sharifs exit and General Pervez Musharaffs coup detat, Pakistans leadership might be hesitant to swiftly sue for peace. Meanwhile, Modis frequent painting of the rival Congress Party as soft on Pakistan and linkage of anti-Pakistan rhetoric to his populist appeal adds another domestic layer of escalation.

The simultaneous escalation of US-China tensions adds a further layer of complication to the India-Pakistan conflict. Due to the 3,000km China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which was inaugurated in 2015, Chinese President Xi Jinping views Pakistan as a core strategic partner. Under Trumps leadership, the US has weathered a tariff war with India and pursued closer relations with New Delhi. While neither the US nor China benefits from open war in South Asia, these polarisations could prevent them from supporting de-escalation in a unified manner.

Over the past three years, the world has watched with bated breath as Russia threatened nuclear Armageddon against Ukraine and the West. The incipient India-Pakistan conflict takes the risk of an apocalyptic clash between nuclear powers to new heights.

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.
May 6dbeard @dominionpost.com MORGANTOWN  Uncertainty remains the key word as WVU continues to work out how Trump administration executive actions will affect the university. WVU Vice President for Research Fred King and WVU President Gordon Gee both addressed that problem for the Faculty Senate on Monday.

King spoke in the context of grants and contracts facing possible termination. "Since the end of January it's been very emotional, " he said.

On any given Friday, he said, there's a new executive order. Lawsuits opposing it are filed the following Monday, and a court injunction soon follows. "I think it's important to not be emotional as we think about this. Our approach as a university is to be calm and rational."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

(For example, WVU faces a loss of $12 million in research funding from a National Institutes of Health cap on funding for indirect research costs at 15 %. In early April a federal judge issued a permanent injunction barring that move, which the NIH is appealing.)

King said they work with WVU's legal office and appeal an order when it makes sense to do so. They also work with the state's Congressional delegation, often behind the scenes, trying to help them understand the impacts of the various executive actions.

Most of the discussion is behind the scenes, he said, because the situations and negotiations are delicate.

Internally, he said, they monitor the actions of three groups for guidance: the Association of Public & Land-Grant Universities Council on Research, the Council of Graduate Schools, and the Council of Government Relations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They hold two two meetings per week, he said. One is an administrative group that review executive actions and impacts, and informs the D.C. delegation. They also look at how the university should respond and how to ameliorate the impacts to campus.

The other is with deans and the provost's office to share information.

"A lot of work is being done on this although it's not necessarily being done wholly in public, " King said.

It's a time to respond rationally and calmly, he said. "Fear and panic does us no good. It hurts our blood pressure, but at the end of the day does not really solve the problem." They solve the problem by working collaboratively with the decision makers in D.C.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gee is retiring at the end of June and made his final presentation to the Faculty Senate. Starting from his first term as WVU president in 1980, he said, he's attended about 150 Senate meetings.

"Rather than a collection of buildings, a university is a gathering of scholars, " he said. The current faculty is particularly talented and energetic. "I'm grateful to all of you for the work that you've done."

This is a period of transition for WVU and himself, he said, and he views it with optimism.

"I have no doubt that the best is yet to come for me, for the university, for all of the people in this room. This is a tumultuous time and we've heard that."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

WVU is a land-grant, R1 university in a small state and he's often asked how it deals with the tumultuous actions out of D.C.

He said, "We are a unique American institution and we make our living off of doing things differently, and being very distinctive. And I think that distinction will serve us very well over the next period of time."

Gee and the faculty haven't always had the smoothest relationship. In the midst of academic transformation, in September 2023, the faculty overwhelmingly passed a resolution of no confidence in Gee.

But on Monday, following Gee's comments, Faculty Senate chair Diana Davis offered a few words of praise for him, noting his support of shared governance and the role of the Faculty Senate in that shared governance. They don't always agree, but that's how shared governance works.

"We do appreciate your willingness to consistently engage with us and to include our perspective in the major decisions of this university, " she said. "We wish you well in retirement."
We recently published a list of Jim Cramer Talked About These 7 Stocks Recently. In this article, we are going to take a look at where Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT) stands against other stocks that Jim Cramer discussed recently.

On Monday, Jim Cramer, host of Mad Money, shared valuable insights from his years of experience as an investor. He stressed the importance of saving consistently, regardless of any excuses. According to Cramer, starting early is ideal, but even if that is not possible, it is still essential to set aside money for the future.

READ ALSO: 21 Stocks on Jim Cramers Radar and Jim Cramers Thoughts on These 13 Stocks

He advised that even if someone cannot afford to build a large stock portfolio, it is still worthwhile to invest in as little as possible. One way to do this, he suggested, is by contributing to an index fund or a major mutual fund with whatever money is available.

If you dont have enough money or the time to own a stock portfolio, you can only own one or two stocks, send the money in, as little money as you can, to an index fund, to one of these big mutual funds.

Cramer also noted that if one is planning to pick individual stocks and dealing with real money, they should open an actual investment account. He compared investing to swinging at a pitch; if you know what youre doing, it can be profitable, but if you do not, the risks are much higher. He warned against treating investing like a gamble or chasing after excitement, as this can lead to poor decisions. Instead, he emphasized the importance of discipline in investing and urged investors not to let their losses accumulate over time.

So heres the bottom line: You want to get started, go small, invest what you know, research intensely, just research, research, research Its as simple as a keystroke and the informations free, including up-to-the-minute financials, analyst presentations, brokerage research, and of course, the conference calls that I tell you are a must if you want to actually know what youre doing. Simple? No. Lucrative? You bet it is.

Our Methodology

For this article, we compiled a list of 7 stocks that were discussed by Jim Cramer during the episodes of Mad Money aired on May 2. We listed the stocks in ascending order of their hedge fund sentiment as of the fourth quarter of 2024, which was taken from Insider Monkeys database of over 1,000 hedge funds.

Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletters strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 373.4% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 218 percentage points (see more details here).
As Russian President Vladimir Putin prepares for his heavily choreographed May 9 Victory Day military parade, hes been clear whos at the top of his guest list: Xi Jinping.

The Chinese leader arrived in Moscow on Wednesday for a four-day state visit, Russian state news agency RIA Novosti reported. Xi will deepen mutual trust with Putin, according to Beijing, and attend activities commemorating 80 years since the Allied forces World War II victory over Nazi Germany.

Xis attendance marks a strong showing of unity between the two autocrats and their nations at a moment when US President Donald Trumps America First diplomacy has shaken global alliances and reshaped relations between Washington and both powers. In remarks last month, Putin described Xi as his main guest.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a written statement marking his arrival in Moscow, Xi hailed China and Russia as good neighbors that cannot be moved apart, true friends who share weal and woe, and reliable partners who help each other succeed.

The two countries will work together to defend the hard-won outcomes of World War II, resolutely oppose hegemonism and power politics and promote the establishment of a more just and reasonable global governance system, Xi said in the statement.

Brazils President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Vietnams President To Lam and Belarussian leader Aleksandr Lukashenko are among other leaders expected to attend the celebrations. Contingents from the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army honor guard will also join the parade, which takes place in the shadow of Putins assault on Ukraine.

To commemorate the event, Putin proposed a three-day ceasefire with Kyiv  a decision some analysts say was motivated by a desire to show off Russias military might uninterrupted in front of foreign dignitaries. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected the proposal, calling it a theatrical performance and reiterated his support for an earlier US proposal for a 30-day ceasefire.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Earlier this month, Zelensky warned dignitaries traveling to the event that Kyiv cannot be responsible for what happens on the territory of the Russian Federation, amid the ongoing conflict  which the Kremlin later said amounted to a threat.

Ukraine has launched multiple drone attacks on Moscow over the course of the war, including in recent days  prompting temporary closures of airports in the capital for several hours. Its biggest attack on the Russian capital in March killed three people.

Ukraine says its attacks are aimed at destroying infrastructure key to Moscows war efforts and are in response to Russias continued assault on Ukrainian territory, including residential areas and energy infrastructure.

Russias May 9 Victory Day is one of the countrys largest celebrations and marks Nazi Germanys 1945 surrender to the Soviet Union, a day which has become increasingly important under Putin, who has falsely claimed his war in Ukraine is a denazification. Previous years have seen a diminished supply of military hardware as Russian tanks are instead mobilized on that wars front lines.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Europe celebrates its VE Day, marking Germanys surrender on all fronts, a day prior.

Rescuers work near a body of a victim and damaged vehicles at the site of a Russian missile strike in Sumy, Ukraine last month. - Reuters

Shifting landscape

The visit is Xis third time in Russia since Putin launched his war more than three years ago, but much has changed since his last visit just over six months ago.

China and the US are now locked in an escalated trade war that threatens major impact to both economies, and Beijing finds itself in need of strengthening its friendships  and trade partnerships  with other nations, including Russia. Top officials from the US and China are set to meet in Switzerland later this week, in what could begin a lengthy process of trade talks to end frictions.

Moscow, meanwhile, has found a much more sympathetic America under Trump compared with his predecessor, but is now warily eying recently warming ties between Washington and Kyiv as the US president appears to lose patience with Putin in his push for an end to the conflict.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Now  there are more incentives between China and Russia to present a solid image of their alignment, said Yun Sun, director of the China program at the Washington-based Stimson Center think tank.

Given the turbulence created by Washingtons policy in the world, China and Russia will be signaling that there is still stability and credibility in international affairs and de-Americanization is already in progress. They will rally and call for more support against US unilateralism and hegemonism, publicly and openly, she said.

For Moscow and Beijing, an event celebrating the end of World War II  which saw the formation of the United Nations-led international system  creates the ideal backdrop to play up such rhetoric at a time when the US has exited some UN bodies and rattled long-standing alliances in Europe.

An article published by Chinas state news agency Xinhua Sunday claimed Xi and Putin would lead the correct direction of global governance, clearly oppose unilateralism and bullying, and work together to promote an equal and orderly world with multipolarity and inclusive economic globalization.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During their meeting Thursday, the two leaders will discuss Ukraine, relations with the US and the Power of Siberia-2 gas pipeline  a proposed natural gas line from western Russia to northern China that Moscow has long sought to push off the drawing board - according to Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov.

Xi and Putin, known for making a show of their close rapport, have ramped up their countries economic and security ties in recent years. Theyve also worked together to frame themselves as responsible alternative leaders to the US, even as Russia wages war in Ukraine and Beijing ramps up its aggression in the South China Sea and toward Taiwan, the self-governing island that Beijing declares its own.

The countries relations have only been accelerated by Russias war, as Beijing has emerged as a key lifeline for Moscow, despite claiming neutrality in the conflict.

China and Russia reached record bilateral trade last year as a sanctions-strapped Moscow increasingly looked to China as an export market and source of products. Western governments have said dual-use products from China like microchips and machine parts are propping up Moscows defense-industrial base, losing Beijing good will in Europe. China defends its normal trade with Russia.

Russian servicemen march on Moscow's Red Square during the Victory Day military parade last year. - Alexander Nemenov/AFP/Getty Images

Standing jointly

On this visit, observers say Xi will be looking to ensure Chinas continued access to Russias natural resources and market, as the country now faces 145% tariffs on most exports to the United States and has thrown up high retaliatory tariffs of its own in an entrenched trade war.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Given the current American administrations policies towards China, China really needs Russia in many aspects  trade wise, energy resources wise, said Tamas Matura, a senior fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis.

But those same trade tensions  and Trumps questioning of US economic and strategic ties with Europe  has also created a potential opening for China to repair relations with Europe, analysts say, something Xi is likely to be aware of as he navigates his diplomacy in the days ahead.

A lot of European observers will be looking at and listening to Xi Jinpings speech in Moscow  will he talk about, in a meaningful way, peace in Ukraine? Will China change its fundamental approach towards supporting Russia and its war efforts against Ukraine, which would facilitate its relationship with Europe? Matura said.

Similar questions have been raised in recent months over whether a shifting US stance could draw Moscow closer to Washington  at Beijings expense.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump in recent months has upended traditional US policy toward Russia, parroting Kremlin rhetoric about the war in Ukraine and appearing open to concessions in Moscows favor as he aims to end to the entrenched conflict.

But there are signs of impatience in the Trump administration with Putins ongoing onslaught against Ukraine despite the Ukraine-backed 30-day ceasefire proposal. And Washington and Kyivs signing last week of an agreement on natural resources is widely seen as strengthening Ukraines position with Washington.

Regardless, close observers of both Xi and Putins governments say theres little incentive for either to throw over what has been a carefully crafted relationship with deep ideological and economic benefits.

Thats been the leading view from Beijing. Russia stands jointly with China on supporting the international order, according to Wang Yiwei, director of the Institute of International Affairs at Renmin University in the Chinese capital.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Russia distrusts the US  and the fundamental hostile attitude toward Russia in the US and in general from the West cannot be changed (by Trump), said Wang.

Instead, analysts say, Xi and Putins meetings in the days ahead are likely to send another message: China and Russia remain as aligned as ever.

CNNs Darya Tarasova contributed reporting.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
(WKBN)  Thousands of cases of baked beans sold in nearly two dozen states are being recalled over an undeclared ingredient, according to a recall announcement published by the Food and Drug Administration.

Vietti Food Group of Nashville, Tennessee, is recalling 4,515 cases of its brown sugar molasses baked beans sold under the Yellowstone brand, after the hit television series, due to the presence of undeclared soy.

WeightWatchers files for bankruptcy to eliminate over $1 billion in debt

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The recall announcement warns that people with an allergy or severe sensitivity to soy risk serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume the beans.

Impacted products can be identified by its best-if-used-by date of Feb. 17, 2028, according to the notice. The code is printed on the bottom of each can of beans. An image of the label can be seen below:

The label of Yellowstone Brown Sugar Molasses Baked Beans that has been recalled. (FDA)

The beans were sold in Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, and Virginia.

No illnesses or adverse reactions have been reported because of the beans, Vietti says.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you have any of the recalled baked beans, you are being asked to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. For questions, customers may contact Vietti Food Group at (513) 682-2474 Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. CT or email recall@zwanfood.com.

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.
A ceasefire deal between Yemens Houthis and the United States does not include any operations against Israel, the groups chief negotiator has announced.

Mohammed Abdulsalam told the Reuters news agency on Wednesday that attacking Israel was not included in any way, shape or form in the agreement mediated by Oman.

The announcement of the deal came hours after Israeli warplanes targeted Yemens Sanaa airport. Airport director Khaled al-Shaief told Al Masirah on Wednesday that around $500 million in losses were caused by the Israeli aggression on the airport.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The deal was announced a day earlier by US President Donald Trump, who said attacks on Yemen against the Houthis would stop, effective immediately, after the group agreed to stop targeting vessels in the Red Sea.

In a statement on Tuesday, Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi said that following recent discussions and contacts  with the aim of de-escalation, efforts have resulted in a ceasefire agreement between the two sides.

Neither side will target the other  ensuring freedom of navigation and the smooth flow of international commercial shipping in the Red Sea, he added.

Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei welcomed the cessation of US aggression against the country, praising Yemenis for their legendary resistance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Saudi Arabia also commended the deal. The kingdom welcomed the statement issued by the Sultanate of Oman regarding the reaching of a ceasefire in Yemen with the aim of protecting international navigation and trade, the Saudi foreign ministry said in a statement.





Attacks on shipping

Since Israel began its war on Gaza in October 2023 following the Hamas attack on southern Israel, the Houthis have targeted Israel and vessels in the Red Sea in solidarity with Palestinians under fire.

During the fleeting ceasefire in Gaza earlier this year, the Houthis paused their attacks but restarted following Israels decision to enforce a total blockade on the enclave in early March, followed soon after by its full resumption of the war.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The group also threatened to restart attacks on shipping, which had been paused since January, which triggered a response from the US military in the form of near-daily air strikes.

But announcing the agreement on Tuesday, Trump said the Houthis dont want to fight any more.

And we will honour that, and we will stop the bombings, and they have capitulated, he added.

They say they will not be blowing up ships any more, and thats the purpose of what we were doing.

But Abdulsalam told Houthi-affiliated news outlet Al Masirah TV that any US action would result in a response following the deal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If the American enemy resumes its attacks, we will resume our strikes, he said.

The real guarantee for the accord is the dark experience that the United States has had in Yemen, he added.

Houthi political leader Mahdi al-Mashat also said attacks on Israel will continue and go beyond what the Israeli enemy can withstand.

A ballistic missile attack fired by the Houthis on Ben Gurion International Airport on Sunday hit the perimeter of the airport, injuring eight people, damaging a road and a vehicle and forcing air traffic to stop.

The Israeli military confirmed its defence system failed to shoot down the projectile, despite several attempts to intercept it, adding that an investigation was under way.
A New York town official is facing a slew of charges after allegedly shooting a DoorDash delivery driver who was lost and looking for directions in the town of Chester last week, police said.

The DoorDash driver suffered serious, nonfatal injuries, New York State Police said in a statement released Sunday. As of Tuesday, the victim remained hospitalized after undergoing surgery, CNN affiliate WABC reported.

It marks the latest instance of someone in the US being shot after making an apparently innocent mistake, like ringing the wrong doorbell or pulling into the wrong driveway.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to New York police, the driver had attempted to deliver food to a residence in the Valerie Drive neighborhood in Chester last Friday. Chester is roughly 50 miles north of Manhattan.

The driver, who police didnt identify, struggled to find the exact location and approached several homes asking for directions before arriving at the residence of John Reilly III, the towns highway superintendent, police said.

Reilly then told the driver to get off his property before firing multiple rounds at the victim as he attempted to leave in his vehicle, according to police. The driver was shot once in the back, police said, causing serious physical injuries.

The driver was provided with the correct consumer address in the Dasher app, but he went to the wrong house, DoorDash told CNN in a statement. The delivery was due for roughly 10 p.m. Friday and in a rural location, the company said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No one should ever fear for their safety just for trying to make deliveries in their neighborhood, DoorDash said in the statement.

Were devastated by this senseless act of violence, and were praying for a full and speedy recovery. Well continue to work closely with law enforcement as they investigate this tragic incident.

A relative of the victim told WABC the driver thought his life was over. He was so scared that he first stopped at a gas station after the incident, before driving dozens of miles away to his home in Middletown, the relative said.

Yes, the situation makes us angry, but were just very grateful that hes alive, and we want this guy to get the punishment he deserves because he tried to kill him, the relative told WABC.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Reilly, a federally licensed firearms dealer, has been charged with assault in the first degree, the criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, and the criminal possession of a firearm, according to police.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 9 in the Town of Chester Court.

CNN has reached out to New York State police and Chester police for further details.

Other similar cases of someone being shot after approaching a home for innocent reasons have resulted in criminal convictions.

Last year, a 66-year-old man was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison for fatally shooting a woman in a car that mistakenly drove up his driveway in rural New York.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Homeowner Kevin Monahan claimed he was protecting his wife and was concerned about past criminal activity in his neighborhood when he lost his balance on some nails and fired the fatal shot at Kaylin Gillis, 20, from his porch in April 2023.

Gillis was killed just days after a Black teenager in Kansas City was shot twice by a White homeowner after going to the wrong address to pick up his siblings.

The now-deceased shooter Andrew Lester pleaded guilty to a charge of second-degree assault in the shooting of then-16-year-old Ralph Yarn.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  The Youngstown Business Incubator is ready to show the Youngstown area and northeast Ohio what it can do for entrepreneurs and manufacturers.

Its holding an Advanced Manufacturing User Expo (AMUX) on May 20. The AMUX will attract area manufacturers to help them learn about advanced manufacturing. Its going to focus on how that can help end-users change the way they do business.

And this to be an interactive conference where they can ask questions, figure out how to adopt it, where the most applicable applications are. Through a lot of the grants, we are offering facility walkthroughs, so come in and meet some of those people that are doing this work, and you know, see what opportunities are available for you to bring the technology in-house, said Stephanie Gaffney, vice president of Advanced Manufacturing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The expo is May 20, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Eastwood Event Centre in Niles. Tickets can be purchased online.

Having this event is gonna be important because its gonna continue to remind people, whats the purpose of having this type of technology and the resources that are available to you here now in the Valley, said Zac Divencenzo, co-founder and president of Juggerbot 3D.



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.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  Zach Skow announced on Tuesday he is set to leave Marleys Mutts Dog Rescue, an animal shelter in Tehachapi.

Skow made the announcement on Facebook May 6, saying he submitted his two-week notice to the board of directors last week.

Skow founded Marleys Mutts in 2009 and has rescued dogs in Kern County since then. Skow also created the Pawsitive Change program, a rehabilitation program for California State prisons.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Marleys Mutts is expected to continue its operation under its executive director who has been with the organization for the past seven years.

Skow said he plans to continue helping animals and people, but will announce his next move at a later date.

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 KGET 17 News.
On the night of 6-7 May, Russian forces launched four ballistic missiles and 142 drones at Ukraine, approximately half of which were Shahed drones. As of 10:00, dozens of drones remain in the air, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reported.

Source: Zelenskyy on X (Twitter)

Quote: "Kyiv was struck twice  first by ballistic missiles, then by drones in the morning. All emergency services are currently on the ground, assisting people. As of now, there are reports of 7 injured, including 4 children. Tragically, a woman and her son were killed. My condolences go out to the family and loved ones"

Details: Zelenskyy noted that since the evening, there have been numerous strikes on Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk Oblast, Zhytomyr Oblast, Kherson Oblast and Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He also said that in the village of Velyka Chernechchyna, Sumy Oblast, the Russians first launched a ballistic strike, then dropped aerial bombs, and continued shelling even as emergency workers were already on site.

Zelenskyy stressed that only "significantly intensified pressure on Russia and stronger sanctions can pave the way to diplomacy".

Quote: "Any measures depriving the aggressor of resources to wage war must be implemented to bring lasting peace. I thank our partners who share this view and help us. I thank everyone who helps Ukraine with air defense. Russia must be held accountable for its actions."

Background:

On the morning of 7 May, it was reported that two people had been killed and eight injured in the Russian attack on Kyiv, including four children.

Later, Kyiv City Military Administration stated that the Russians had attacked the capital with a ballistic missile and 28 drones. One missile and 12 UAVs were shot down, while three drones went off radar and ten left the capitals airspace.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
Looking for a break? Test your knowledge of this week's news from the Yakima Valley.
The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction in Olympia. In a tight budget year for the state legislature, school districts managed to eke out some wins. (Kylie Cooper / The Seattle Times, 2023)
Support Local News Reporting

Journalists at the Yakima Herald-Republic bring you timely, in-depth and credible local news. Your generous donation supports their work.
Conservative leader Friedrich Merz on Tuesday failed to secure the required majority in the first round of voting for the German chancellor in the parliament, Azernews reports, citing Yeni Safak.

In the secret ballot, 310 members of parliament voted for Merz, while 307 voted against him. He needed an absolute majority of at least 316 votes to be elected chancellor.

The surprise setback for Merz came despite his Christian Democrat alliance and its junior coalition partner, the Social Democratic Party (SPD), holding a comfortable majority of 328 seats in the Bundestag.

During the vote, three lawmakers abstained and one vote was invalid. Nine parliamentarians were absent due to illness or other reasons. Due to the secret ballot, it remained unclear how many lawmakers from the coalition parties voted against Merz's chancellorship and what their party affiliations were.

Following the surprise results, party leaders met with their senior advisers to discuss the path forward. It was not immediately clear whether a second round of voting would take place later Tuesday or would be delayed until Friday.

This marks the first time in Germany's postwar history that the chancellor candidate failed in the first round of voting.

According to the German constitution, if a chancellor candidate fails to win in the first round of voting, the parliament has two weeks to elect someone with an absolute majority, according to the Bundestag website.

Merz can run again at any point within the two-week period if he believes a second-round victory is possible. Multiple ballots can be held, and new candidates may also enter the race.

Merz's Christian Democrats officially signed a coalition deal with the center-left SPD on Monday, following weeks of negotiations after the Feb. 23 elections.

The Christian Democrats won the snap elections with 28.5% of the vote but fell short of an outright majority. Though the Social Democrats recorded their lowest-ever result at 16.4%, they emerged as a crucial coalition partner for forming a stable government majority in the Bundestag.
We recently published an article titled Jim Cramer Says AI Is Back & Discusses These 10 Stocks. In this article, we are going to take a look at where Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) stands against the other stocks.

In a recent appearance on CNBC's Squawk on the Street, Jim Cramer commented on how market sentiment towards AI appeared to be changing. "Yeah look, this is a moment where, if you have AI, we are now saying it's good," he said. "Remember we were sick of AI for a while and now AI's back," Cramer added.

He also commented on the current tensions between the US and China regarding AI and overall trade. The US has restricted sales of advanced AI chips to China, and to Cramer, the current environment "feels so much like Russia and United States from the Khrushchev time on, it really does." He added that US technology was superior to the Chinese, and when co-host David Faber pointed out that China was pushing out a lot of STEM graduates, Cramer replied: "We're four times smarter than they are. Our schools. Four times better."

The US AI chip sanctions have included restricting all but 18 countries from being able to acquire the latest AI chips. The laws were introduced under the Biden administration and Cramer's been their critic. When Faber asked him to explain the rules, called 'Diffusion Rules,' Cramer outlined:

"Okay so Biden picked 18 friends. 18 friendly nations that were allowed to get all the chips that they . . and then there was the next group, which was the not so friendly, which when look at, is a lot of EU countries which I always thought were friendly because of NATO, that kind of thing. . .Iceland, Mexico, not in there. And then there's just the enemies list."

Cramer added rather cryptically: "And some people now feel that they're going to offer licensing for a country which would really be bad. Worse than what Biden did."

He added:

"No they have got to get that changed because. . .if you go check, Jensen Huang did this . . .he did this huge tour, all around the world, to all these countries that are basically going to be denied and that are not friendly."

As for the impact of tariffs on economic growth, Cramer believes: "Well, we gotta see, this next quarter is the quarter where, everyone is so concerned."

Our Methodology

To make our list of the stocks that Jim Cramer talked about, we listed down the stocks he mentioned during CNBCs Squawk on the Street aired on May 1st.
We recently published a list of 11 Best Performing Large Cap Stocks So Far in 2025. In this article, we are going to take a look at where Lloyds Banking Group plc (NYSE:LYG) stands against other best performing large cap stocks so far in 2025.

The stock market had a chaotic start to the first quarter of 2025. The uncertain tariff policy, growing fears of a recession, and inflation sent the stock market to the worst quarterly performance since the 2022 bear market. On March 31, ClearBridge Investment released its commentary on the market performance. Portfolio Managers Erica Furfaro and Margaret Vitrano highlighted that the S&P 500 index declined 4.27%, whereas the growth-heavy NASDAQ and Russell 1000 Growth Index fell 10.42% and 9.97%, respectively.

Elaborating more on the quarterly market performance, the portfolio managers noted that the Russell Growth Index underperformed the Russell Value Index by more than 1,200 basis points indicating that while large-cap stocks were impacted, the growth sector took the major hit. Tariffs were only one of the headwinds affecting the performance and the overall backdrop also includes the launch of Chinese LLM DeepSeek which questioned the AI capital expenditure of various large and mega-cap stocks. This capital expenditure bubble infected the performance of other Magnificent Seven to an extent that only one of the Mag Seven companies could outperform the Russell 1000 Index.

Erica Furfaro and Margaret Vitrano noted that their Large Cap Growth ESG strategy performed better than the benchmark amidst all the uncertainty. Their strategy takes the Russell Growth Index as a benchmark. The managers noted that the strategy revolved around being underweight for the Mag Seven and the IT sector. They also highlighted that balancing the portfolio with strong stocks across IT, communication, and financial services also played a pivotal role in generating more relative returns.

The investment fund also noted moving towards a moving to the middle approach, which refers to adjusting their portfolio to be less concentrated in any single sector and more balanced across different types of growth companies. Clearbridge has reduced its overweight position in healthcare and increased exposure to the IT sector, which was previously underweight. The fund believes this recalibration positions the portfolio for an economic slowdown. Lastly, Erica Furfaro and Margaret Vitrano noted that the first quarter witnessed the earnings growth broaden away from the Mag Seven and other large-cap stocks outside the big tech names delivered better earnings. They anticipate that, unless there is a recession, earnings growth from industrial and healthcare companies will begin to catch up with the technology sector in 2025.
This story was originally published on C-Store Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily C-Store Dive newsletter.

Loves Travel Stops & Country Stores has named Patrick McLean as its first-ever chief marketing officer, according to a Monday press release.

McLean will be responsible for aligning Loves marketing efforts with the companys strategic priorities and values, according to the press release. He will lead a team of nearly 300 in the marketing and customer experience departments and will report directly to Loves President Shane Wharton.

Strategic investments in marketing and customer experience will elevate this already strong brand and unlock further growth for the business, McLean said in a statement.

McLean brings more than 30 years of experience across a variety of industries to Loves. He most recently was head of his own marketing consultancy, according to his LinkedIn bio. In that role, he offered strategic marketing consulting and interim or fractional CMO support.

Before that, he served as senior vice president and CMO for drug store chain Walgreens, where he helmed the launch of the "My Walgreens" customer engagement and loyalty platform, according to the announcement. He has also served as CMO for TD Bank, vice president of digital brand strategy for Capital One bank, and in various marketing roles with telecom companies Verizon and Bell Canada.

At Loves, McLean has succeeded Vice President of Marketing Dave Frankenfield, who is retiring after 28 years with the Oklahoma City-based retailer. Frankenfield will stay with the company through the end of the year to help ensure a smooth transition.

Patricks B2B and B2C experience in multiple industries, and with some of the largest and most successful retail brands in the world, stood out to us as we searched for a leader who could take our efforts to the next level and fit into our award-winning culture, said Wharton in the press release.

Recommended Reading
We came across a bullish thesis on Markel Group Inc. (MKL) on Substack by Value Don't Lie. In this article, we will summarize the bulls thesis on MKL. Markel Group Inc. (MKL)'s share was trading at $1813.28 as of April 28th. MKLs trailing and forward P/E were 9.10 and 12.71 respectively according to Yahoo Finance.

Is Progressive Corporation (PGR) the Best Low Volatility Stock to Buy Now?

A team of accountants in a boardroom, discussing strategic moves of an insurance company.

Markel Corporation, often dubbed a mini-Berkshire, is a diversified insurance holding company with three main segments: specialty insurance, public and private investments, and a collection of non-insurance operating businesses called Markel Ventures. Its core insurance business focuses on long-tail excess and surplus lines, consistently generating underwriting profits in 8 of the last 9 years, though it has lagged peers in recent profitability improvementsespecially in reinsurance. Markel Ventures, a $5.1 billion revenue operation with a 12.5% EBITDA margin, spans industries from construction services to consumer products and now contributes 4050% of consolidated earnings. Despite the segments strong performance, limited financial disclosures raise concerns among investors. On the investment side, Markels public equity portfolio, managed by CEO Tom Gayner, grew to $11.8 billion by 2024 and includes high-quality names like Berkshire Hathaway. However, it has underperformed broader market indices by 100150 basis points over 510 years. With $13.1 billion in net cash and investmentsor $1,025 per sharethis sum makes up over half of Markels market cap, although not all of it is excess capital due to regulatory requirements.

The stocks underperformance has caught the attention of activist investors, including JANA Partners, who have urged a separation of the insurance and Ventures businesses to unlock value. Markels management has acknowledged areas needing improvement, particularly insurance, stating that improved results here are essential for the companys long-term potential. Capital allocation has shifted significantly in recent years. After spending $4.2 billion on acquisitions between 20152021, Markel deployed $8.8 billion into its investment portfolio since 2021. Share buybacks have also increased meaningfully, reaching $573 million in 2024though still modest relative to its $23 billion market cap.

Valuation remains a core topic. Markel uses a two-part intrinsic value estimate based on operating earnings and net asset value, applying a conservative 12x multiple to normalized earnings. As of year-end 2024, this approach yielded an intrinsic value of $2,610 per share, up 18% CAGR over five years, versus just a 9% CAGR in stock price. Alternatively, with $1.94 billion in earnings and $13.1 billion in net investments, the stock trades at an implied 5.1x multiple, suggesting meaningful undervaluation. With operational tailwinds in Ventures, strategic pressure to unlock asset value, and visible capital deployment into buybacks, Markel presents a compelling investment opportunity with multiple levers for upside if execution improvesespecially in insurance.
Mobile payments pioneer Paytm has posted a resilient performance for the January-March quarter of FY25, showing steady growth across its core businesses. The fintech major reported a 5% quarter-on-quarter increase in revenue, reaching 1,911 crore in Q4 FY25, demonstrating a steady recovery in its core business segments.

It also achieved 81 crore in EBITDA before ESOP costs, including UPI incentive, signalling strong operational control and a clear path toward sustainable, profitable growth. Excluding UPI incentive, EBITDA before ESOP improved by 51 crore QoQ to 11 crore. Also, excluding the one-time exceptional expenses of 522 crore, Paytms profit after tax (PAT) improved to (23) crore.

Paytms contribution profit rose to 1,071 crore, a 12% quarter-on-quarter jump, with the contribution margin improving to 56%. The company closed the quarter with a robust cash balance of 12,809 crore, providing ample strength for future investments and growth initiatives.

In the payments business, Paytms net payment margin stood at 578 crore, which included 70 crore from the UPI incentive for the year. Excluding the incentive, the margin was 508 crore, a 4% increase from the previous quarter.

Financial services continued to be a major growth driver for Paytm. Revenue from this segment rose to 545 crore in Q4 FY25, up 9% sequentially. Merchant loan disbursements during the quarter reached 4,315 crore, with more than half going to repeat borrowers, a sign of strong credit performance and user stickiness.

User and merchant activity remained strong. Paytms Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) for the quarter touched 5.1 lakh crore, and its Average Monthly Transacting Users (MTUs) increased to 7.2 crore. The merchant subscriber base for Paytms payment devices grew by 8 lakh in the quarter, reaching 1.24 crore by March 2025.

The company also showcased remarkable consumer and merchant stickiness, despite the business disruptions in the first half of FY 2025. On a full-year basis, Paytm recorded 6,900 crore in operating revenue for FY25, a decline from 9,978 crore in FY24, however, it reflects resilience following business disruptions earlier in the year.

Paytm is focusing on Indias large MSME sector, seeing it as a key growth opportunity for mobile payments and financial services. The company plans to roll out innovative payment solutions designed to meet the unique needs of small and mid-sized businesses, while also strengthening its presence in tier-2 and tier-3 cities across the country.




New Delhi: The Indian armed forces carried out precision strikes on 9 terror camps in Pakistan in the aftermath of the brutal Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, that claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians including one Nepali citizen.

India launched 'Operation Sindoor', striking nine high-value terror targets deep inside Pakistani territory.

Operation Sindoor marks one of the most significant cross-border actions taken by India since the Balakot airstrikes in 2019.

Here is how world leaders reacted to India's Operation Sindoor.

Antonio Guterres

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres remains very concerned about Indias military operation against Pakistan, saying the world cannot afford a confrontation between the two countries, according to his Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric.

He calls for maximum military restraint from both countries, Dujarric said shortly after India announced missile strikes into Pakistan and territory it occupies in Kashmir.

The Secretary-General is very concerned about the Indian military operations across the Line of Control and international border, he said.

Donald Trump

Earlier, President Donald Trump said that the Indian strikes on Pakistan were expected and that its his hope it ends very quickly.

Marco Rubio

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated he is monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan "closely."

In a post on X, Marco Rubio said, I am monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan closely. I echo @POTUS's comments earlier today that this hopefully ends quickly and will continue to engage both Indian and Pakistani leadership towards a peaceful resolution.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson

China finds Indias military operation early this morning regrettable. We are concerned about the ongoing situation. India and Pakistan are and will always be each others neighbours. Theyre both Chinas neighbours as well. China opposes all forms of terrorism. We urge both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, remain calm, exercise restraint and refrain from taking actions that may further complicate the situation, said Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson.
New Delhi: While India has successfully avenged the Pahalgam attack by carrying out airstrikes last night on multiple terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, eliminating over 100 terrorists, former Indian Army Chief Manoj Naravane hinted that the picture is not over yet.

He shared a post on the social media platform 'X' (formerly known as Twitter), said, "Abhi picture baki hai". Netizens are seeing this as a hint for the more planned actions of India against terrorists and a possible move to recapture Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Earlier, in an official statement, the Ministry of Defence said, "The Indian Armed Forces launched OPERATION SINDOOR, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed." "Altogether, nine (9) sites have been targeted."

It further said, "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution."

Reports also suggest that 14 members of Maulana Masood Azhar's family were killed in the strikes. Masood Azhar, chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed, masterminded several terrorist attacks in India.
Following Indias precision strikes on terrorists and terrorist infrastructure at nine sites in Pakistan and PoK, NSA Ajit Doval spoke with NSAs of several countries, including US NSA and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, UK NSA Jonathan Powell, Saudi NSA Musaid Al Aiban, UAE NSA H.H. Sheikh Tahnoon, Secretary General of NSC of UAE Ali Al Shamsi and NSA of Japan Masataka Okano.

#OperationSindoor | Soon after the focused strikes on terrorists and terrorist infrastructure at 9 sites in Pakistan and PoJK on 7 May 2025 as part of Operation Sindoor, NSA Ajit Doval, spoke with NSAs of several countries including US NSA & Secretary of State Marco Rubio, UK NSA pic.twitter.com/vvvXrreCz1 May 7, 2025

According to news agency ANI, contact was also established with Russian NSA Sergei Shoigu, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the PRC Wang Yi and Diplomatic Adviser to French President Emmanuel Bonne.

In a big step against Pakistan and terrorism, India, early on Wednesday, launched Operation Sindoor and carried out precise strikes against terrorist infrastructure in response to the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed.

NSA briefed his counterparts on actions taken and the method of execution, which was measured, non-escalatory and restrained. He emphasised that India had no intent to escalate but was well prepared to retaliate resolutely should Pakistan decide to escalate.

NSA will be in touch with his counterparts in the days ahead, sources said. Marco Rubio had spoken to National Security Advisors from India and Pakistan on Tuesday (local time) and urged them to keep lines of communication open and avoid escalation.

"Earlier this afternoon, @SecRubio spoke to the national security advisors from India and Pakistan. He urged both to keep lines of communication open and avoid escalation," the US Department of State said on X.

At a joint briefing on Operation Sindoor in which nine terrorist camps were targeted with precision strikes, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the terror attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their families.

(With agency Inputs)
New Delhi: The entire nation is united in applauding Operation Sindoor, under which Indian armed forces carried out airstrikes on nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Over 100 terrorists were killed in the attack. Many opposition leaders have praised the armed forces for conducting such a strong action against Pakistani terrorists.

Shashi Tharoor, Congress Lok Sabha member for Thiruvananthapuram, applauded the government and armed forces. In a post on the social media platform 'X', Shashi Tharoor said, "So proud of my country today. Jai Hind!"

So proud of my country today.



Jai Hind!  Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) May 7, 2025

He, in a different post, said, "A set of calibrated, calculated, precise strikes against terror targets. Exactly what I had advocated last week: hit hard, hit smart. I applaud the government and stand solidly with our armed forces."

A set of calibrated, calculated, precise strikes against terror targets. Exactly what i had advocated last week: hit hard, hit smart. I applaud the government and stand solidly with our armed forces.



At the same time we have behaved in a manner that would not justify further pic.twitter.com/FGul2QsVTV  Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) May 7, 2025

He further added, "At the same time, we have behaved in a manner that would not justify further expansion of the conflict. We have made our point and acted in self-defence. Time for all concerned to act wisely to prevent uncontrolled escalation."

India has an unflinching National Policy against all forms of terrorism emanating from Pakistan and PoK.



We are extremely proud of our Indian Armed Forces who have stuck terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. We applaud their resolute resolve and courage.



Since the day of the  Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) May 7, 2025

Earlier this morning, Mallikarjun Kharge, President, Indian National Congress and leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha, also praised the Indian armed forces. He said, "We are extremely proud of our Indian Armed Forces, who have struck terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. We applaud their resolute resolve and courage."
India's fresh tri-service strike, code-named 'Operation Sindoor', is a new milestone in the country's struggle against cross-border terrorism. The 25-minute precision strike at 1:25 AM on Wednesday targeted terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the April 22 Pahalgam attack that had claimed the lives of 26 people, one of them being a Nepali national.

The strike is historic because it is India's first combined Army-Navy-Air Force operation since the 1971 war, and was carried out with precision surgery, eliminating nine high-value terror camps. Official sources said 70 terrorists were eliminated, and more than 60 were wounded, including operatives of camps that had trained 26/11 attackers Ajmal Kasab and David Headley.

The attack was termed by the government as "measured, non-escalatory, and proportionate", refraining from targeting Pakistani military positions. The mission was based on RAW intelligence, with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval chairing more than 15 strategy meetings. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who watched the strike unfold in real-time, allegedly dubbed the operation 'Sindoor' as an expression of respect for the women who lost their husbands in the Pahalgam massacre.

India's History Of Military Raids On Pakistan

Operation Sindoor adds itself to a long series of Indian military retaliation against Pakistan's provocation. Here's a glimpse at some of the most prominent earlier operations:

 Operation Bandar (2019): Following the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF men were killed, the Indian Air Force carried out aerial strikes in Balakot, targeting Jaish-e-Mohammed militant camps. This was India's first cross-border airstrike since the 1971 war.

 Uri Surgical Strikes (2016): Following the brutal attack on an Army base in Uri, the Indian Army conducted a cross-LoC strike, killing several terror launchpads. The operation was marked by success and no Indian casualties.

 Operation Vijay & Safed Sagar (1999): India launched Operation Vijay to retake strategic heights occupied by Pakistani forces during the Kargil War. At the same time, the Air Force launched Operation Safed Sagar, using aerial power to evict entrenched foes.

 Operation Meghdoot (1984): It gained Indian domination of the Siachen Glacier ahead of Pakistan's Operation Ababeel. Indian forces were air-lifted to capture crucial passes such as Bilafond La and Sia La, and India has retained control over Siachen since then.

 1971 War: Operations Cactus Lily, Trident, and Python:

 Cactus Lily was air and ground operations to capture Dhaka by evading Pakistani defenses.

 Operation Trident was a sea strike against Karachi, India's maiden anti-ship missile operation in war.

 Operation Python further asserted the efficacy of Trident, devastating Pakistan's naval logistics.

 Operations Riddle & Ablaze (1965):

 Riddle was initiated to counter Pakistani infiltrations in Jammu and Kashmir, against Lahore and Kasur.

 Ablaze was an anticipatory war precautionary mobilisation in Gujarat and the Rann of Kutch, preparatory to subsequent conflict.

From calibrated counterattacks to large-scale military operations, these actions highlight India's changing doctrine of deterrence and retaliation. Operation Sindoor, symbolic but calculated, indicates India's unshakeable position against terror, particularly when it originates from across the border.


In the wake of heightened national security measures following 'Operation Sindoor,' the national capital witnessed a large-scale civil defence mock drill on May 7. The mock drill was designed to test Delhis emergency preparedness and public response under simulated crisis scenarios like air raids, blackouts, and evacuations.

The drill was carried out across 55 strategic locations spread over 11 districts, including high-traffic public areas such as markets, metro stations, and government buildings in Central, North, Shahdara, and South Delhi.

Key Features of the Mock Drill

To simulate real emergency conditions, authorities deployed PCR vans, fire brigades, civil defence volunteers, and security personnel across various sites. In locations such as Khan Market and Chandni Chowk, loud alarm sirens were sounded as part of evacuation drills. Citizens were asked to evacuate the area and move to safe shelters.

In Chandni Chowk, a full-scale exercise was conducted involving NCC cadets and civil defence volunteers. As the evacuation drill near the Town Hall began, sirens echoed through the market, prompting people to move quickly towards designated safe zones.

City-Wide Blackout Simulation

In addition to evacuation and emergency response drills, a mock blackout was also executed at the selected sites. Although a full-scale citywide blackout wasnt carried out, localised blackouts at drill locations were marked by the sounding of a long siren to indicate the start, followed by short bursts signaling the end.

Guidelines Issued by the Government of NCT of Delhi

The Office of the Medical Director (Department of Accident & Emergency) laid out detailed instructions for the public to follow during the mock drill:

What to Do During the Mock Drill

Recognize Sirens:

 Long siren = Alert (take shelter)

 Short bursts = All clear

Head to Safety Zones:

Move quickly to designated shelters such as basements or underground parking

Keep Emergency Kit Ready:

Include torch, batteries, water, non-perishable food, first-aid kit, ID, and important documents

Follow Instructions:

Cooperate with civil defence volunteers and listen to public announcements

Practice with Family:

Rehearse evacuation plans and CPR/basic first-aid with children and elderly

Observe & Learn:

Understand how authorities camouflage vital installations and manage large-scale emergencies

What Not to Do During the Mock Drill

Do Not Panic:

These are drills meant for trainingstay calm and composed

Avoid Using Phones Excessively:

Keep networks free for emergency communication only

Dont Ignore the Sirens:

Treat every alarm as real; drills are meant to build habit and readiness

Dont Spread Rumours:

Avoid misinformation or sharing sensitive visuals online

Dont Use Private Vehicles Unless Instructed

Could cause congestion and delay emergency response teams

Dont Leave Lights On During Blackouts:

Use blackout curtains and cover light-emitting devices to simulate a real blackout

General Preparedness Tips

1. Before the Drill: Stay informed through local channels and alert neighbours

2. During the Drill: Include pets and elderly in preparedness

3. After the Drill: Offer feedback to local authorities on any gaps observed

Why These Drills Matter

These exercises help both the government and the public be better prepared for terror threats, natural disasters, and wartime scenarios. By participating actively, citizens can make a crucial difference during real emergencies.
Operation Sindoor: Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Wednesday briefed envoys and representatives of 13 UN Security Council member countries on Operation Sindoor, under which the Indian Army carried out precision airstrikes in Pakistan and PoK and destroyed terrorist infrastructure.

In the briefing, Misri conveyed that New Delhi's response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack has been "targeted, measured and non-escalatory," sources told news agency ANI. They said that the foreign secretary conveyed that the April 22 terror attack, in which 26 people were killed, was "escalation for us".

Sources told ANI that Misri pointed out that The Resistance Front (TRF), a front for LeT, had claimed responsibility for the terror attack and then backed out after it realised that it had to be shielded. The agency sources also stated that he conveyed that Pakistan tried very hard to bring out a UNSC statement and it is clear that there is some design to this.

Misri conveyed that India's response has been "targeted, measured and non-escalatory", and the precision strikes have been carried out only on terrorist infrastructure.

Pakistan, however, has been focusing on hitting civilian infrastructure in the Poonch area. Misri said Pahalgam was a barbaric terror attack, and everyone saw what it was. He said India has responded to a terror attack and has targeted terrorist infrastructure. He is learnt to have said that if Pakistan responds, then India will also respond and that shelling is taking place along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir.

Sources said there were queries about possible reactions from Pakistan, and the foreign secretary conveyed that India has responded to a terrorist attack.

He said India has not targeted any military installations and hit nine sites belonging to terrorist outfits. He is learnt to have said that if Pakistan hits civilian infrastructure, then India will respond.

ANI sources also stated that Misri conveyed that India has credible evidence that the nine sites targeted by it are places where terrorists used to be trained and were also used as launchpads. They said Misri stated that it is too early to comment on casualties.

The terror infrastructure is housed in a complex in which there are madrassas, mosques, playgrounds, dormitories and training areas. India has targeted these complexes, which have been a training ground for terrorists, he is leant to have said. Misri said that India's mission in the US is also reaching out to all the UNSC members.

The Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' early Wednesday. Twenty-six people were killed in the Pahalgam terror attack. Following the dastardly attack, PM Modi had said that the perpetrators will face severe punishment beyond their imagination and gave full operational freedom to security forces.
UK-based accountancy firm MHA has announced a significant expansion into Europe with the acquisition of Baker Tillys business in Cyprus and Greece for 24m ($27.2m), the Financial Times reported.

The acquisition of Baker Tilly South East Europe comes after MHAs listing on the London Stock Exchanges Alternative Investment Market (AIM) last month.

MHA had previously announced plans to pursue expansion through cross-border mergers following its public offering.

The deal involves 6.5m in cash and 17.5m in shares, with 10% of the purchase price earmarked for employees of the acquired business.

Baker Tilly South East Europe, which provides audit, tax, advisory, legal, and corporate services, employs nearly 400 people across Cyprus and Greece.

For the 2024 financial year, the firm reported revenue of 19.4m and profit before tax of 2.5m.

MHA, which represents the UK and Ireland arm of the Baker Tilly network, said the acquisition supports its strategy to expand its European footprint.

The deal follows increased consolidation activity in the accountancy sector, as private equity firms look to scale up operations and increase profitability.

Last month, Baker Tillys US division, which sold a majority stake to private equity investors in 2023, announced a merger with Moss Adams, forming what will become the sixth-largest accounting firm in the US by revenue.

MHA is currently under investigation by the Financial Reporting Council regarding its audit of construction group ISGs 2022 accounts. This is the second formal probe into the firms audit work by the UK regulator.

"MHA to purchase Baker Tillys Cyprus and Greece units for 24m  report" was originally created and published by International Accounting Bulletin, a GlobalData owned brand.




Congress leaders, including Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Senior party leader Mallikarjun Kharge, on Wednesday responded to the successful launch of Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory action following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives.

Rahul Gandhi expressed pride in the Indian Armed Forces, while Senior Kharge, emphasising the importance of national unity and solidarity during such times, stated that the Indian National Congress stands firmly with our Armed Forces.

"Proud of our Armed Forces. Jai Hind!," Gandhi said in a post on X.

Proud of our Armed Forces. Jai Hind!  Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 7, 2025

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge also shared a post on X and stated that the Indian National Congress has categorically stood with the Armed Forces and the Government to take any decisive action against cross-border terror.

India has an unflinching National Policy against all forms of terrorism emanating from Pakistan and PoK.



We are extremely proud of our Indian Armed Forces who have stuck terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. We applaud their resolute resolve and courage.



Since the day of the  Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) May 7, 2025



In a decisive move aimed at avenging the recent Pahalgam terror attack, India tonight launched precision military strikes on terrorist camps located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK).

According to an official statement released by the Indian Army, the operation  codenamed Operation Sindoor  targeted nine specific locations linked to the orchestration and planning of cross-border terror attacks. The strikes, carried out by the Indian Armed Forces, were described as "focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature."
Operation Sindoor: Following the Indian Armys precision strikes on terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, the central government has convened an all-party meeting on Thursday to brief the political parties on the steps taken by it. The all-party meeting will be held at 11 am in the Parliament Library Building.

"Govt has called an all-party leaders meeting at 11 am on 8th May, 2025, at Committee Room: G-074, in the Parliament Library Building, Parliament Complex in New Delhi," Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said in a post on X.

At a briefing on Operation Sindoor, in which terror camps were targeted, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the terror attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with headshots at close range and in front of their families.

"The family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said.

Meanwhile, after the conclusion of an emergency informal meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC), Congress has extended its "full support" to the Indian forces and their precise strikes at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) under 'Operation Sindoor'.

Here Are Top Points:

1. Misri said that Indian intelligence agencies have been monitoring terrorist activities and raised concerns regarding more terrorist attacks in India.

2. "Our intelligence indicated that further attacks against India are impending. Thus, compulsion, both to deter and prevent and hence earlier this morning, India exercised its right to respond to deter such more cross-border terrorism... Our actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible. They focused on dismantling terrorists' infrastructure," he said.

3. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructures.

4. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives, she said.

5. Col. Sofiya Qureshi showed some videos of the strikes destroying terror camps. The Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' early Wednesday, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed.

6. Twenty-six people were killed in the Pahalgam terror attack. The government had said that the perpetrators will face severe punishment.
New Delhi: 'Justice Is Served, Jai Hind' tweeted the Indian Army at wee hours on Wednesday as Indian Armed Forces launched OPERATION SINDOOR, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. Altogether, nine (9) sites have been targeted.

Indian Army took the steps in the wake of the barbaric Pahalgam terrorist attack that killed 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen on April 22.

"Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution," said a government release.

"We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable," the release added.

Minutes before the precision strike, Indian Army released a teaser stating "Ready to Strike, Trained to Win".

" ,  "

Ready to Strike, Trained to Win.#IndianArmy pic.twitter.com/M9CA9dv1Xx  ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) May 6, 2025

All air defence units have been activated all along the India-Pakistan border to tackle any eventuality, defence officials have said as per news Agency ANI.

There will be detailed briefing on OPERATION SINDOOR, later today.
Kargil War veterans showed vehement support for 'Operation Sindoor' on Wednesday, terming it a bold and unavoidable measure in the wake of the ghastly Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. The tri-service operation, initiated early on Wednesday morning, involved the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Between 1:05 a.m. and 1:30 a.m., Indian troops launched 24 missiles against nine high-value terror camps, including the Lashkar-e-Taiba headquarters in Muridke and important terrorist infrastructure in Bahawalpur, which have long been notorious hubs of terrorist activity.

Naik Deep Chand (Retd.), a Kargil War veteran of the Artillery division who lost both his legs and a hand in the 1999 war, lauded the operation and praised the Indian army for taking a bold step. He appealed to the country to give more vocal support to the military, citing the sacrifices made by soldiers to safeguard the nation.

"It is easy to criticise the military, but they are the ones fighting to protect us," said Naik Chand. "We must respect the Indian Army, as they work selflessly for the pride and glory of the nation."

Brigadier Kushal Thakur (Retd.), a war-decorated officer who led the 18th Grenadiers in the Kargil War and commanded troops in major battles, also praised the operation. He criticised the April 22 Pahalgam attack as an attempt to destabilise the area and undermine India's efforts to bring peace and prosperity to Kashmir.

"The attack targeted the revival of tourism and business in Kashmir, trying to send a message that the region remains unstable," Brigadier Thakur said. "It was an effort to delegitimize Indias achievements and to change the peaceful narrative."

Thakur insisted that the precision strike ability of the military, showcased by attacks such as the Balakot air strikes and the Uri surgical strikes, confirms India's preparedness to retaliate appropriately. He called on the government to stand up stronger, insisting on a tougher national stance and tougher measures against Pakistan.

"The time has come to take the toughest possible steps," Thakur asserted. "Enough is enough."
Bengaluru Mock Drills HIGHLIGHTS: As the tensions between India and Pakistan are escalating, mock drills were announced to be conducted across India on Wednesday, May 7. This came after the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam in which 26 people were killed. Following the directions of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), mock drills were conducted in Bengaluru of Karnataka.

During the wee hours of Wednesday, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Altogether, nine sites were targeted as part of the precision strikes.

Thankyou For Staying With Zee News For Updates On Bengaluru Mock Drill
Chandigarh Mock Drills HIGHLIGHTS: The Indian armed forces conducted precision airstrikes on terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack. Several camps have been destroyed, and more than 90 terrorists have been killed. Amid the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, the country is preparing civilians for any emergency. Mock drills have been conducted at several places in Chandigarh.

Thankyou For Staying With Zee News For Updates On Chandigarh Mock Drill
Chennai Mock Drills HIGHLIGHTS: Avenging the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Air Force carried out airstrikes under Operation Sindoor last night, targeting multiple terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Several terror camps were destroyed in the attack, and dozens of terrorists were killed. Following the Pahalgam terror strike, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had clearly declared that India will punish the culprits. The rising tensions between the two countries could potentially escalate into war. To ensure civilians can stay safe in the event of such a scenario, mock drills have been organised today in over 200 districts across the country. Security mock drills have also been conducted in Chennai.

Thankyou For Staying With Zee News For Updates On Chennai Mock Drill
Lucknow, Bulandshahr Mock Drills LIVE Updates: In response to the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched airstrikes under Operation Sindoor last night, hitting multiple terrorist camps located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The strikes led to the destruction of terrorist camps and the death of over 70 terrorists. As tensions between the two nations continue to rise, the situation risks escalating into war. To prepare civilians for any emergency, mock drills were conducted in various districts nationwide, including Lucknow and Bulandshahr in Uttar Pradesh.

Stay Tuned For LIVE Updates:
Patna Mock Drill Live: In a coordinated civil defence preparedness exercise, the Bihar state administration will conduct a 10-minute crash blackout mock drill across seven cities on Wednesday, May 7. The drill, scheduled between 7:00 PM and 7:10 PM, is part of a nationwide directive from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to test emergency response during air raid scenarios.

Cities where power will be temporarily cut include Patna, Purnia, Katihar, Begusarai, Barauni, Araria, and Kishanganj. Warning sirens will be activated shortly before the blackout to alert residents to the simulated air raid condition.

Officials clarified that this mock drill is designed to train citizens on how to respond during an emergency and evaluate the readiness of civil defence systems. Essential services, including hospitals, will remain unaffected during the brief blackout.

Fire services, police, and other administrative bodies have been mobilised to ensure a smooth execution of the exercise. The Patna district administration has already deployed fire tenders and emergency teams across key locations.

Students are also being sensitised about emergency protocols as part of the broader awareness initiative. Authorities urge citizens not to panic and to follow official instructions during the drill.
Srinagar: Echoing his support to India's Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, asserted that none of us wants war, but Indian had to respond to what happened in Pahalgam. He further added that it is now up to the neighbouring country how much they want to escalate the situation. He also pointed out that if people had not been killed in Pahalgam, this day would not have come.

CM Abdullah said, "We were living peacefully, the situation inside Jammu and Kashmir was stable, tourism was increasing, and there was a ceasefire at the Line of Control (LoC). These are not the circumstances we created. We had to respond to what happened in Pahalgam. But now it is up to Pakistan how much they want to escalate this."

He said, "None of us wants war. Any war that happened in past impacted Jammu and Kashmir. We hope that the situation normalises, but for that, our neighbouring country will have to silence their guns," Omar Abdullah said. CM Abdullah emphasised that he has not forgotten the Pahalgam attack on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 people.

He said, "At that time, the Central government had said they would respond in their own way. The way India chose to respond was by targeting not just any civilian or military area in Pakistan, but the areas where people had been living for the last 30-35 years, spreading destruction and chaos in Jammu and Kashmir. They became the target."

Watch Video-

#WATCH | Srinagar: "None of us want war...we want the situation to improve again, but first our neighbouring country (Pakistan) needs to put their guns down..."says, J&K CM Omar Abdullah after #OperationSindoor. pic.twitter.com/8ISr3polUZ  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched a strike at the terror hideouts deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor' last night. Nine terror targets were chosen, and all nine strikes were successful.

(With ANI inputs)
Norway's parliament has mandated the government to initiate a new oil and gas exploration licensing round in frontier areas, signalling a potential increase in drilling activities.

This decision comes as Norway holds the position of Europe's largest natural gas supplier, contributing approximately 30% of the EU's gas imports, a status amplified by Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, reported Reuters.

The original proposal, which urged the government to commence a new licensing round in the first half of this year, was modified at the Centre Party's request, delaying the process until next year.

Despite halting the award of ocean blocks for oil and gas drilling in frontier regions like the eastern Barents Sea, Norway has maintained annual licensing rounds in more established areas.

Last year, Norway achieved a record export volume of natural gas to Europe, with expectations for similar levels in the coming years.

Nevertheless, projections indicate a sharp decline in output post-2030. Identifying and developing new resources could mitigate this anticipated downturn, the report said.

In January this year, the Norwegian Government awarded stakes in 53 offshore oil and gas exploration licences to 20 companies as part of the annual predefined area 2024 licensing round.

However, this figure represents a decrease from the 62 licences awarded the previous year, with the number of companies receiving permits also dropping from 24.

The distribution of the latest licences saw an increase in the North Sea with 33 awards, while the Norwegian Sea experienced a reduction to 19 licences.

The Barents Sea was allocated a single licence, a significant decrease from the eight granted previously.

"Norway green-lights new oil and gas exploration licensing round" was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




The Indian Armed force on Wednesday successfully launched a precision attack on several terror camps of different terrorists within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (Pok) as retaliation against the deadly terrorist attack which claimed the life of 25 indian nationals and one Nepali national.

The Indian Armed Force carried out the strikes in the early hours of May 7. The operation, dubbed 'Operation Sindoor,' struck at the main terror infrastructure corresponding to outfits like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Here are the key details:

- Indian Armed Forces have struck around a dozen terror camps across 910 different locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

- Some targets were located as deep as 100 km inside Pakistani territory.

- The operation followed clear indications from the Prime Minister to take decisive action.

- The camps struck were directly linked to multiple past attacks against India. The operation demonstrates a precise and coordinated response, as asserted by the Prime Minister.

- The airstrikes carried out by the Indian Air Force targeted four Jaish-e-Mohammed, three Lashkar-e-Taiba, and two Hizbul Mujahideen terror camps.

Here are the nine targeted terror locations:

1) Bahawalpur, located around 100 Km from the International Boundary, was the Headquarters of JeM.

2) Muridke, 30 Km from the border opposite Samba. LeT camp.

Terrorists of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.

3) Gulpur, 35 Km from LoC Poonch-Rajauri.

The roots of attacks in Poonch on 20 April 2023, and the attack on innocent pilgrims travelling in a bus on 24 June were conducted by these terrorists.

4) LeT Camp Sawai. 30Km inside POJK Tangdhar Sector.

Roots of the following terror attacks:

Sonmarg on 20 October 24, Gulmarg on 24 October 24 & Pahalgam attack on 22 April 25.

5) Bilal Camp, JeM launchpad.

6) LeT Kotli camp 15 Km from LoC opposite Rajauri. LeT bomber camp. Almost 50 terrorists capacity.

7) Barnala camp, 10 km from LoC opposite Rajauri.

8) Sarjal camp, JeM camp about 8Km from IB opposite Samba-Kathua.

9) Mehmoona Camp 15 Km from IB, near Sialkot.
On May 7, 2025, India launched precision air strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives, including that of a Nepali citizen. Codenamed 'Operation Sindoor,' the strikes were a symbolic and strategic blow against outfits like Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

As India conducts large-scale civil defence drills following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, its worth revisiting a fascinating and lesser-known chapter of Indias military history. During the 1971 Indo-Pak war, fearing air strikes on Agra by the Pakistani Air Force, India undertook an extraordinary operation: it made the Taj Mahal vanish from the skies.

The aftermath saw the Indian government stepping up civil defence preparedness, recalling the nations full-scale mobilisation in 1971. Back then, India not only prepared its military but also trained civilians for air raids and blackouts. Among those high-level preparations was an ingenious effort to protect the Taj Mahal from Pakistani bombs.

The Night Pakistani Bombers Flew Too Close

The war officially broke out on December 3, 1971, when Pakistan launched a surprise attack on Indian military bases. Known as Operation 'Chengiz Khan,' the offensive targeted over a dozen Indian Air Force (IAF) stations along the western front.

One of the targets was Kheria Airbase in Agra, just a few kilometers from the Taj Mahal. Two Pakistani fighter jets bombed the runway, causing minor damage but sending shockwaves through the defence establishment. The proximity of the attack raised serious concernsnot just for strategic infrastructure, but for India's priceless cultural landmarks.

The Indian government quickly concluded that landmarks like the Taj Mahal could be used as navigational markers by enemy aircraft. Worse, they might even be direct targets aimed at demoralising the Indian public.

The Taj Mahal Under Camouflage During WWII -



Taj Mahal, an immense mausoleum of white marble, built in Agra between 1631-1648 CE, by order of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan (r. 1628-1658 CE) in the memory of his favourite wife, the Taj Mahal is the jewel of Muslim art in India pic.twitter.com/KTyGa9CUIa  Archaeo - Histories (@archeohistories) March 4, 2024

Camouflaging The Taj: Making the Monument Disappear

The response was swift and strategic. Within 24 hours of the attack, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) began a mission to hide the Taj Mahal from the skies.

Massive jute tarpaulins, dyed in green to blend with the nearby Yamuna River vegetation, were draped over the gleaming white marble dome and minarets. The job was labor-intensive: more than 8,400 kilograms of tarp, nearly 600 kg of nails, and 63 special sewing needles were used to shroud the monument.

Crews even brought in tree branches and brushwood to camouflage the minarets, while sand was spread across the marble floor to dull its natural shine. Lights were turned off every evening, tourists were banned, and heavy security was deployed to enforce restrictions.

The concealment lasted over two weekslong enough to thwart any repeat aerial attempt during the war.

(Mig21 pair during 1971 India-Pakistan War. Image courtesy: X)

Not The First Time Taj Was Hidden

This wasnt the first instance of the Taj being hidden from enemies. During World War II, the British built bamboo scaffolding around the dome in 1942 to mislead potential German or Japanese bomber aircraft. The idea was simple: from above, the Taj should appear like a stockpile of construction materials, not a shining marble mausoleum.

World War II :: Taj Mahal Covered With Bamboo Scaffolding to Protect It From Bombers pic.twitter.com/z6g6cljoXO  indianhistorypics (@IndiaHistorypic) February 25, 2022

Without modern satellite surveillance or GPS-guided weapons, these low-tech camouflage tactics proved surprisingly effective.

Civil Defence For All: Drills, Blackouts, And Training In 1971

While the Taj Mahal was being hidden, civilians across India were being trained to survive a potential war scenario. Blackout drills became routine. Citizens were instructed to turn off lights at night and use paper to cover windowpanes to prevent enemy pilots from seeing lit homes.

Schools conducted air raid rehearsals. Children were taught to take cover under benches or run to shelters upon hearing sirens. Offices closed early, and life ground to a near-halt by sunset in border areas.

(The iconic image of Lt Gen Niazi and Lt Gen Arora that sealed the end of the war. Image courtesy: Indian Navy)

Veteran journalist Madhurendra Prasad Sinha, then a teenager in Dumka (now in Jharkhand), recalls practicing drills regularly. There wasnt panic, he said in an interview, but we were alert. We shut lights and took cover as soon as sirens blared.

RK Sharma, a retired official, shared that citizens were told to lie flat on the ground and cover their ears if caught outside during a mock raid. The rules were strict, and people took them seriously.

Modern Drills: How Things Have Changed

Now, in 2025, India is once again preparing civiliansthis time for mock drills being held across 259 locations in 33 states and union territories. These include evacuation drills, bunker training, and air raid simulations, led by teams from NDRF and SDRF.

But as Sinha points out, Things are very different today. We have so many communication tools and early-warning systems. Back then, it was just sirens and lanterns.

(Government officials conducting mock drills, Pic Credits: ANI)

Despite the advancements, the core lesson remains: in times of crisis, India's ability to mobilisefrom hiding the Taj Mahal to educating civilianshas always been rooted in swift action, cultural awareness, and deep resilience.

In 1971, as war loomed, India didnt just fight with jets and soldiersit protected its heritage and prepared its people. The mission to hide the Taj Mahal stands as a remarkable symbol of wartime foresight and national pride.

(With Agency Inputs)
On May 7, 2025, in the early hours of dawn, India launched Operation Sindoora rare and bold tri-services military strike deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This operation was Indias firm response to the Pahalgam terror attack that occurred on April 22, claiming 26 innocent lives, mostly tourists, in Jammu and Kashmir.

In a carefully coordinated move, the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force worked together in this high-precision retaliation. It was the first such tri-services operation since the 1971 Indo-Pak war, signaling Indias resolve to pre-emptively neutralize cross-border terrorism.

The Role of Indias Armed Forces

Indian Air Force (IAF)

* Led the operation with Rafale fighter jets, launching SCALP long-range cruise missiles and HAMMER precision bombs from Indian airspace.

* Supported by Mirage-2000s and Sukhoi-30MKIs, the Air Force carried out standoff strikes that avoided Pakistani airspace.

* Maintained combat air patrols and initiated large-scale air exercises to deter retaliation.

Indian Army

* Coordinated intelligence gathering along the Line of Control (LoC).

* Launched loitering munitions (kamikaze drones) and precision artillery strikes near forward launchpads.

* Responded to Pakistans post-strike shelling in Kupwara, Poonch, Rajouri, and Baramulla with proportionate force.

Indian Navy

* Provided logistical and ISR (intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance) support.

* Was likely involved in launching precision loitering drones from Indian territory.

* Remained on high alert in the Arabian Sea to monitor and counter any maritime threat from Pakistan.

Advanced Weaponry: SCALP and HAMMER Missiles

SCALP (Storm Shadow)

* A French-origin air-launched cruise missile with a range of over 500 km.

* Ideal for deep-penetration strikes on enemy bunkers, command posts, and weapons depots.

* Used by Rafale jets in this operation for targets like Bahawalpur and Muridke.

HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range)

* A precision-guided bomb with a range of up to 70 km.

* Designed to strike fortified targets like bunkers, launchpads, and radar posts with accuracy.

* Used effectively for strikes closer to the LoC in PoK.

9 Strategic Terror Targets

India hit nine key terror hubs, selected for their direct involvement in past or planned attacks on Indian soil. The locations were across Punjab province in Pakistan and PoK, close to Jammu and Kashmir:

Bahawalpur (Punjab Province, Pakistan)

* Approx. 180200 km from Fazilka, Punjab (India)

* Headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Central command for terror planning, including Pulwama and Parliament attacks.

Muridke (Punjab Province, Pakistan)

* Approx. 140 km from Gurdaspur, Punjab (India)

* Base of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Linked to the 2008 Mumbai and 2025 Pahalgam attacks.

Kotli (PoK)

* Approx. 3540 km from Poonch, J&K (India)

* Terror training base for suicide bombers. Frequently used to launch infiltrators into Kashmir.

Gulpur (PoK)

* Approx. 67 km from Poonch, J&K (India)

* Key launchpad for attacks in Rajouri and Poonch districts. Closest strike to the LoC.

Sawai (Kotli District, PoK)

* Approx. 15 km from Jammu sector, J&K (India)

* Camp for planning attacks across Sonmarg, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam in the Kashmir Valley.

Sarjal (Kotli District, PoK)

* Approx. 12 km from Poonch, J&K (India)

* Known infiltration corridor through rugged terrain. Often used by small terror squads.

Barnala (Kotli District, PoK)

* Approx. 10 km from Mendhar, J&K (India)

* Staging area for ceasefire violations and militant crossings into Indian territory.

Mehmoona (near Sialkot, PoK)

* Approx. 30 km from Samba district, J&K (India)

* Safehouse of Hizbul Mujahideen. Used for launching minor but frequent raids across the border.

Tattapani (Poonch District, PoK)

* Approx. 5 km from Krishna Ghati sector, Poonch, J&K (India)

* Contained weapons depots and training sites for new recruits. Hit to block further infiltration.

Aftermath and Global Reactions

Pakistans Claim: Six areas struck, 8 civilians killed, 22 injured. Claimed 5 Indian jets downed (India has denied these false allegations ).

Indias Stand: Confirmed nine terror hubs hit. Emphasized no civilian or military sites were targeted.

Indian Civilian Casualties: Three killed due to Pakistani shelling in J&K.

Diplomacy: NSA Ajit Doval briefed the United States, and India also reached out to the UK, Russia, and Saudi Arabia, clarifying the strikes were limited to terror infrastructure.

What Operation Sindoor Signifies

* First joint Army-Navy-Air Force operation since 1971.

* Strongest-ever Indian military message to terror sponsors across the border.

* Demonstrates a shift from reactive to proactive counter-terrorism.

* Conducted with restraintavoiding escalation while ensuring accountability.

* Marks a new era in Indias security doctrine: swift, strategic, and united.

Final Thoughts

Operation Sindoor is not just a retaliationit is a reminder that India will act decisively when provoked. With minimal collateral damage and maximum strategic effect, India has shown the world that it can protect its sovereignty without triggering all-out war. The strike serves both as deterrence and a wake-up callthat those who harbor terror must bear the consequences.

But the situation remains sensitive. India must now combine its military strength with diplomatic outreach to avoid escalation and encourage Pakistan to act against terror outfits operating on its soil.

(Girish Linganna is a Defence and Geopolitical Analyst based out of Bengaluru. He is also the Director of ADD Engineering Components, India, Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany. The views expressed in this article are of the author only.)

This article is based on information available at the time of writing. Details will be updated as and when more verified information is received.
In a large-scale civil defence drill, several states in India conducted coordinated blackouts on Wednesday as part of a nationwide emergency preparedness exercise under the MHA directive. The blackout was intended to test the nation's preparedness to counter massive security threats and disruptions.

Major landmarks like Rashtrapati Bhavan and Vijay Chowk in the national capital, and Raj Bhavan in Patna, were among the major locations that took part in the drill. Barmer (Rajasthan), Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh), Surat (Gujarat), Shimla (Himachal Pradesh), and Patna (Bihar) cities also joined in, conducting timed power shutdowns and synchronised mock drills.

#WATCH | Lights turn back on at Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi following the blackout, as part of the mock drill ordered by the MHA. pic.twitter.com/82H3txVBcn  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

Large city hubs such as Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Jaipur, and Gwalior also performed other exercises earlier during the day to test local response mechanisms and inter-agency coordination between security agencies. Officials added that the blackout drills were effective in measuring preparedness and interagency response effectiveness.

The civil defence drill was conducted merely hours after the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, a high-accuracy military attack on nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). The operation was a reaction to the April 22 terror strike in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that killed 26 civilians, including a Nepali citizen.

During a press conference in Delhi, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi explained the aims and achievements of Operation Sindoor. According to Wing Commander Singh, the targets were identified with utmost care to prevent civilian casualties, reiterating the Indian Armed Forces' commitment to neutralising militant infrastructure only.

"The strikes were aimed at delivering justice to the victims of the Pahalgam attack," said Wing Commander Singh. "All nine terrorist camps were destroyed successfully, with zero civilian infrastructure damage."

Col. Qureshi displayed the strike footage, including targets on camps at Muridkewhere Mumbai attacker David Headley and 2008 Mumbai attacker Ajmal Kasab had been trainedand Sarjal in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala, Markaz Abbas, and Mehmoona Joya camp.

Foreign Secretary Misri termed the Pahalgam attack an effort to upset the return of peace in Jammu and Kashmir as an act of "barbarity" meant to instill fear. "Victims were shot at close range in front of their families. It was a message of terror aimed at upsetting the stability of the region," he stated.

Operation Sindoor is being viewed as India's deepest military incursion into Pakistani territory since the 1971 war, marking a significant escalation in New Delhi's counterterrorism doctrine.

The blackout drill and Operation Sindoor together signalled a heightened national security posture, with officials stressing the importance of preparedness and strategic decisiveness in the face of evolving threats.
Operation Sindoor: In a strong retaliation following the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Army early Wednesday launched Operation Sindoor and carried out precision airstrikes in PoK and Pakistan and destroyed the terrorism infrastructure of JeM and LeT. In a meticulously planned assault, the Indian Armed Forces demonstrated exceptional coordination while conducting a targeted strike on Pakistani soil.

The operation displayed a well-defined strike ratio, with the Indian Army executing 70 per cent of the attacks and the Indian Air Force taking responsibility for the remaining 30 per cent.

In todays episode of DNA, ZEE News analysed and explained how the coordinated efforts of the Indian Army, the Indian Air Force and security agencies avenged the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of at least 26 people, mostly tourists, and left several others injured.

Watch Full Episode Here

According to ZEE News sources, the operation was carried out with absolute precision and coordinated planning without crossing the international border.

The Indian Air Force played an instrumental role, deploying Rafale fighter jets that launched deadly SCALP and HAMMER missiles  all without crossing the international border. Meanwhile, the Indian Army used indigenous suicide drones to target terrorist hideouts inside Pakistan. The entire operation was, however, not as easy as it seemed. It was planned and executed in five distinct phases:

5 Phases Of Operation Sindoor

Phase 1: Target Selection

Indian military satellites and the intelligence agency RAW gathered critical data from space and on-ground sources. Targets were chosen based on confirmed terrorist presence and training activity, ensuring minimal risk to civilian life.

Phase 2: Target Assessment

Within 15 days, detailed reconnaissance was conducted. RAW collected information on local residents, terrorist movements, and Pakistani military patrols in these areas. The structure and strength of key buildings, such as the Jaish-e-Mohammed headquarters in Bahawalpur, were analysed with precision, right down to the thickness of the concrete roofs.

Phase 3: Weapon Selection

Based on insights from the first two phases, weapons were carefully chosen. For instance, SCALP missiles were selected for their long-range and high-precision capabilities, ideal for destroying fortified structures. These missiles were instrumental in targeting the specific section of the Jaish headquarters where terrorists were located.

Phase 4: Tactical Execution

The military then mapped out the mode of assault for each target. Rafale jets were assigned to attack Bahawalpur, located 100 kilometres from the border. Suicide drones were used to obliterate camps like Sawai Nala and Bilal Camp in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Phase 5: Timing the Strike

The final phase involved selecting the most strategic time for the attack, post 1 AM, when enemy alertness was at its lowest and terrorists were likely asleep. This timing enabled maximum impact and minimised the possibility of retaliation.
Operation Sindoor: The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor during the wee hours on Wednesday. The Indian Army released a video of the precision strike on the Abbas Terrorist Camp at Kotli.

In a post on the social media platform X, the Indian Army wrote, "Target 1  Abbas Terrorist Camp at Kotli. Distance  13 Km from Line of Control (POJK). Nerve Centre for training suicide bombers of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Key training infrastructure for over 50 terrorists."

The Army added, "DESTROYED AT 1.04 AM on 07 May 2025."

OPERATION SINDOOR#JusticeServed



Target 1  Abbas Terrorist Camp at Kotli.

Distance  13 Km from Line of Control (POJK).

Nerve Centre for training suicide bombers of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

Key training infrastructure for over 50 terrorists.



DESTROYED AT 1.04 AM on 07 May 2025. pic.twitter.com/OBF4gTNA8q  ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) May 7, 2025

In a statement, the Ministry of Defence informed that terrorist infrastructure was hit in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. A total of nine sites were targeted.

Operation Sindoor Details

These precision strikes by the Indian Armed Forces came after the gruesome attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22, in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were killed.

Earlier, addressing a press briefing in the national capital, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh outlined the objectives of the operation. A total of nine terror sites in Pakistan, including five in PoK, linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), were targeted with detailed planning to avoid civilian casualties.

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, addressing the briefing, stated that the intelligence has identified Gulpur Camp in Kotli, 30 km from the Line of Control (LoC), as a LeT facility linked to the April 20, 2023, Poonch attack and the June 9, 2024, pilgrimage bus attack.

The strikes, executed between 1:05 am and 1:30 am on Wednesday, involved a coordinated effort by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, targeting key facilities like the JeM and LeT bases in Pakistan as well as PoK.

(with ANI inputs)
The Indian Army has been able to launch successful precision attacks on several terror camps of different terrorists within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as retaliation against the fatal Pahalgam attack of April 22 that resulted in 26 casualties. The operation, dubbed 'Operation Sindoor,' struck at main terror infrastructure corresponding to outfits like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Multiple blasts were witnessed at different places in Pakistan and PoK, and videos captured major explosions. Nine terrorist camps were targeted in the operation, according to the Indian Army.

The operation was a coordinated multi-domain operation, carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and the Air Force. No Indian jets were lost in the operation, sources ensured.

Sources stated that the primary aim of 'Operation Sindoor' was to eliminate top leaders of Jaish-e-Mohammed, based in Bahawalpur, and Lashkar-e-Taiba, based in Muridke. The operation was planned based on intelligence provided by Indias Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), which supplied the coordinates for the nine key locations targeted. India's National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval, reportedly held over 15 high-level meetings to oversee the operations planning and execution.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was closely following the operation from his official residence, 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, with minute-to-minute inputs from NSA Doval.

After the success of the operation, political leaders and politicians from all over India congratulated the Indian Army, posting graphics with the word 'Operation Sindoor'.

A statement issued by the Indian Army said that the operation was aimed at terrorist infrastructure in PoK and Pakistan where plans were being made and coordinated to launch attacks against India. "Our response was focused, calibrated, and non-retaliatory," the statement said. "No Pakistani military installations were hit. India exercised a lot of restraint in target selection."

The statement went on further to highlight India's determination to bring the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack to justice. "We have credible evidence pointing towards Pakistan-based terrorists involvement in this attack," it continued.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif decried the missile attacks as an "act of war" and reaffirmed that he would respond suitably. He confirmed that India had mounted attacks under 'Operation Sindoor' in five places in Pakistan.
In the missile attack in Pakistan early Wednesday to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack, Indian forces targeted the headquarters of the banned Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba groups in the missile attacks against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Among the nine sites targeted are the JeM headquarters in Bahawalpur and the LeTs in Muridke, both in Pakistan's Punjab, according to media reports.

A Pakistani armed forces spokesperson confirmed to the BBC in an interview that the IAF had targeted Bahawalpur and Muridke. Following the airstrikes in PoK, India has clarified that its actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature and that no Pakistani military facilities have been targeted.

Indias action comes two weeks after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed, mostly tourists. "A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," the Defence Ministry said in a statement released at 1.44 am. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution," it said.

Bahawalpur became the hub of the JeM terror group after the release of Masood Azhar in exchange for the hijacked passengers of IC-814 in 1999. The group has since then been involved in a series of terror strikes in India, including the Parliament attack in 2001, the strike on the Jammu and Kashmir assembly in 2000, the attack on the IAF base in Pathankot in 2016 and the Pulwama suicide bombing in 2019.

Azhar, designated a global terrorist, has not been seen in public since April 2019. He started the terror outfit in January 2000 and received assistance from Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), the then Taliban leaders in Afghanistan, Osama bin Laden and Sunni sectarian outfits in Pakistan, officials said.

Muridke, 30 km from Lahore, has been the headquarters of the LeT since 1990. It is headed by Hafiz Saeed and is responsible for the 26/11 terror siege of Mumbai. It has also carried out terror strikes in many other parts of the country, including Jammu and Kashmir, Bangalore and Hyderabad, officials said.

Saeed, the shadowy mastermind of the LeT, designated as a terror group by the United Nations Security Council, is in Indias most wanted list.
After India launched Operation Sindoor to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated, according to Zee News Hindi, that if India halts Operation Sindoor, Pakistan will not retaliate.

Following the airstrike, schools and colleges across Pakistan have been shut down, and there is widespread panic among terrorist organisations.

The Indian Armed Forces carried out this operation in response to the Pahalgam attack that occurred on April 22, which claimed 26 lives, including 25 Indian and one Nepali national. Among the victims was a local youth from Jammu and Kashmir, Syed Adil Hussain Shah, who lost his life while trying to save tourists.

Nine Terror Camps Targeted in Operation Sindoor

Through Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army targeted a total of nine terror camps located in Pakistan and Pok. The strikes included key locations such as Bahawalpur, Muridke, Sialkot, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad. India launched 24 missiles during the operation, using specialised precision munitions. Several top commanders of Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba were eliminated.

The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force jointly carried out the operation, mobilising assets and troops. The strikes on all nine targets were successful. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India.


New Delhi: A video is being shared by Pro-Pakistan handles that show Srinagar airbase being targeted by Pakistan Airforce.

PIB Fact check has tweeted that the video is fake.

"In a video shared by several pro-Pakistan handles, it is being falsely claimed that the Pakistan Airforce has targeted Srinagar airbase. The video shared is old and NOT from India. The video is from sectarian clashes that took place in the year 2024, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan," wrote PIB Fact check from its official X handle.

In a video shared by several pro-Pakistan handles, it is being falsely claimed that the Pakistan Airforce has targeted Srinagar airbase#PIBFactCheck



The video shared is old and NOT from India.



The video is from sectarian clashes that took place in the year 2024, in pic.twitter.com/vPmMq4IWdE  PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 7, 2025

PIB has further advised people to rely only on official Government of India sources for authentic Information.

Meanwhile, Indian Armed Forces launched OPERATION SINDOOR, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. Altogether, nine (9) sites have been targeted.

Indian Army took the steps in the wake of the barbaric Pahalgam terrorist attack that killed 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen on April 22.

"Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution," said a government release.

"We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable," the release added.
Novo Nordisk has reduced its sales and profits forecasts for 2025 due to lower-than-expected demand in the US for blockbuster weight loss and diabetes drugs, though shares in the company were still up following positive Q1 results.

Despite feeling the effects from the compounded glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) market, Novo Nordisk is still growing at a fast pace. Total revenues for the company came in at DKr78.1bn ($11.9bn) for Q1 2025, up 18% at constant exchange rates from the same period last year. Operating profit increased by 20%, reaching DKr38.8bn.

Whilst the share price in the Copenhagen-listed company opened relatively unchanged to a pre-earnings release market close, the stock crept up 5.8% by mid-morning today (7 May). Novo Nordisks market cap of DKr1.56tn is the second largest in Europe.

The Danish pharma companys diabetes and obesity care business made up the bulk of total revenue. Sales for the unit, headed by GLP-1RA treatments Wegovy (semaglutide) and Ozempic (semaglutide) for weight loss and type 2 diabetes, respectively, reached DKr73.5bn. Novo Nordisk stated that obesity sales were the main driver  up 65% compared to Q1 2024. Diabetes sales were up a more modest 11%, with the market not as big as its burgeoning obesity counterpart.

When it comes to its total 2025 outlook, Novo Nordisk does not think it will reach its previously anticipated target. The company cut its sales growth to a range of 13-21%, compared to earlier guidance of 16-24%. Operating profit growth is forecast at 16-24%, also down from a previous range of 19-27%, the company said.

The reason, Novo Nordisk stated, was lower-than-planned penetration of branded GLP-1RA treatments in the US, impacted by compounded GLP-1RAs.

Compounding pharmacies were allowed to produce vast quantities of semaglutide copies when Novo Nordisks branded drugs were in short supply starting in early 2022. Compounded drugs are custom-made and unbranded medications that contain the same active ingredient as a marketed drug, such as semaglutide, under a prescription.

Several telehealth companies such as Mochi Health and Hims & Hers began to offer compounded semaglutide during the shortage, significantly growing their customer base in this time. Their growth in popularity has meant an erosion of market share in the obesity sector for Novo Nordisk. The Danish company has now formed a partnership to provide Him & Hers customers access to the NovoCare Pharmacy.

Novo Nordsiks CEO Lars Fruergaard Jrgensen said: "In the first quarter of 2025, we delivered 18% sales growth and continued to expand the reach of our innovative GLP-1 treatments. However, we have reduced our full-year outlook due to lower-than-planned branded GLP-1 penetration, which is impacted by the rapid expansion of compounding in the US.
Schools Closed in Rajasthan: All government and private schools in Rajasthans four border districts  Ganganagar, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, and Barmer  have been shut as a precaution following Indian strikes in Pakistan, officials said. The region, which lies along the India-Pakistan border, is currently on high alert.

According to District Education Officer Dr. Ramgopal Sharma, all schools in Bikaner will remain closed today, and home exams scheduled for the day have been postponed. The education department has issued notices to inform students and parents about the decision. A government-directed mock drill is also set to take place as part of emergency preparedness efforts.

Schools have been shut, and all arrangements for the mock drill are in place, the official confirmed. Rajasthan, a key strategic state, shares nearly 1,070 km of its border with Pakistan.

Schools closed in J&K

All schools, colleges, and educational institutions have been shut today in parts of Jammu and Kashmir, including Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri, and Poonch. In Pathankot, schools will stay closed for 72 hours. In Kupwara district, over a dozen houses were damaged in the Triboni, Batapora, and Tangdhar areas
Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh on Wednesday said that the party expects Prime Minister Narendra Modi to chair the all-party meeting scheduled to be held on Thursday, following the precise strikes at terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor.

Jairam Ramesh informed that the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge will attend the meeting from the party's side.

"Immediately after the Pahalgam attack, we asked for an all-party meeting. The government called one on 24 April; we expected the Prime Minister to attend, but for some reason, he couldn't. Tomorrow's all-party meeting is being called after a powerful and decisive Operation Sindoor. Our LoP in Rajya Sabha, as well as Lok Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, both will be attending the meeting. We expect the Prime Minister to chair the meeting," Ramesh said.

Calling for unity and solidarity, Jairam Ramesh lauded the Armed forces for this "unprecedented" operation.

"This is the time for unity and solidarity... Operation Sindoor has attacked terrorist camps in Pakistan, and we applaud the armed forces for this operation. This is an unprecedented operation... As a gesture of unity and solidarity," Ramesh said.

The central government has called an all-party meeting on Thursday after the Indian Armed Forces dismantled nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on Wednesday under Operation Sindoor.

The Indian Armed Forces shared details about Operation Sindoor on Wednesday morning. The information was shared in the media briefing, consisting of Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, and Col Sophiya Qureshi.

While speaking to the media, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media along with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Col Sofiya Qureshi, said that 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families.

Wing Commander Vyomika Singh informed that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She asserted that the locations were selected so that there was no damage to civilians and their infrastructure.

During the press briefing, Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training.

India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades.
The Indian Army launched Operation Sindoor on Wednesday in retaliation against the Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in the death of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali national. The precision attacks targeted several terror camps of different terrorists within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The avenged operation, carried out by Rafale fighter jets with Scalp Missiles, Hammer Bombs, marks a significant escalation, with precision airstrikes reportedly demolishing key Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed bases.

Precision strike weapon systems from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Forceincluding loitering munitionswere used in the coordinated attacks, according to sources quoted by ANI. The target coordinates for the terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir were provided by Indian intelligence agencies, and all strikes were conducted from within Indian territory.

What is scalp missile?

The SCALP missile is a long-range, air-launched cruise missile designed for precision strikes on high-value, fortified targets such as command centers, airfields, and critical infrastructure. Weighing 1,300 kg, it carries a 450 kg conventional warhead capable of penetrating hardened bunkers.

Flying at subsonic speeds (around Mach 0.8) and low altitudes, it uses terrain-following navigation, GPS/INS guidance, and infrared terminal homing for high accuracy. SCALP missiles are typically launched from aircraft like the UKs Eurofighter Typhoon and Frances Rafale.

What is hammer missile?

The HAMMER missile (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range/AASM) is a medium-range air-to-ground precision-guided weapon with a range of up to 70 km. Designed as a modular kit, it can be attached to standard bombs weighing between 125 kg and 1000 kg. This allows for high-precision targeting from standoff distances, keeping the launching aircraft safely outside enemy air defense zones. The missile is integrated with the Indian Air Force's Rafale and LCA Tejas fighter jets.
Operation Sindoor: The Indian Armed Forces held a press conference, jointly addressed by senior female officers Colonel Sophia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, after 'Operation Sindoor' was carried out during the early hours of Wednesday.

In the press conference, Colonel Qureshi informed that the terror site Markaz Subhan Allah, Bahawalpur, Pakistan, the headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed, was targeted by the Indian Armed Forces and presented videos showing destroyed terror camps, including those from Muridke, where those involved in the 2008 Mumbai Terror attacks.

#WATCH | #OperationSindoor | Terror site Markaz Subhan Allah, Bahawalpur, Pakistan, the headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed, targeted by Indian Armed Forces." pic.twitter.com/iM4s91ktb8  ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

Colonel Sophia Qureshi's Background

Colonel Qureshi is a decorated Indian Army officer and comes from the Indian state of Gujarat, and was a student of biochemistry in college.

As per the Economic Times, she comes from a military family, as her grandfather also served in the Indian Army and is married to a Mechanised Infantry officer.

Colonel Sophia Qureshi commissioned into the Indian Army through the Officers Training Academy in 1999 and has served in various posts across the country.

Also Check: Operation Sindoor: 24 Airstrikes, 9 Terror Camps; How India Wreaked Midnight Havoc For 25 Minutes

Colonel Sophia Qureshi's Important Services In Army

Colonel Sophia Qureshi was the first woman officer to lead an Army training contingent in a multinational military exercise. She commanded a 40-member Indian Army contingent at Exercise Force 18. She was the only Woman officer contingent Commander among all the ASEAN Plus contingents. The exercise held was in Pune, and 18 ASEAN Plus countries, including China, the USA, Russia, Japan, and South Korea, had participated in it.

Leading lady

Lt Col Sophia Qureshi, 1st woman officer to lead an Army training contingent at Force18 - #ASEAN Plus multin'l field trg ex in 2016. She was only Woman Officers Contingent Commander among all #ASEAN Plus contingents. #WomensDay #IWD2020 #EachforEqual #SheInspiresUs pic.twitter.com/CkNipN02mp  Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) March 8, 2020

Furthermore, as per the ET report, she had served with the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations (PKO) for six years and was a part of the UN Mission in Congo in 2006.

Also Read: Operation Sindoor: Indias Air Strikes Spark Interest In Sindoor Vs Kumkum  Whats Real Difference?

India's Operation Sindoor

India woke up to the Indian Army's Operation Sindoor hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) early morning on Wednesday.

The Ministry of Defence, in a statement, informed that nine sites were targeted, and the Indian Armed Forces' actions were "focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature." It also clarified that no Pakistani military facilities were targeted.

This came after the deadly terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22, in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were killed.

(with ANI inputs)
Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, a highly decorated helicopter pilot in the Indian Air Force, co-led the media briefing on Operation Sindoor following Indias precision strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The operation was launched in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 Indian tourists. She was joined at the briefing by Colonel Sophia Qureshi.

The Indian Air Force officer, joined by representatives from the Army and Navy, outlined the key details and outcomes of Indias cross-border operation. She is one of the few women officers to participate in a joint media briefing of this magnitude on behalf of the Indian Armed Forces.

Who is Vyomika Singh?

Wing Commander Vyomika Singhs journey to the Indian Air Force began with a childhood dream. Determined to achieve it, she joined the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and went on to complete her engineering. She became the first in her family to join the armed forces. On December 18, 2019, she was commissioned as a helicopter pilot and received a permanent commission in the IAFs flying branch.

Wing Commander Singh has flown over 2,500 hours and has operated helicopters like the Chetak and Cheetah in challenging regions such as Jammu & Kashmir and the Northeast. She has been part of several critical rescue missions, including a major operation in Arunachal Pradesh in November 2020. These missions were carried out in high-altitude areas with tough weather conditions.

The joint press conference on Operation Sindoor was held amid a period of national mourning and military action. Wing Commander Singhs participation underscored the importance of trained officers in bridging communication between the armed forces and the public during times of crisis.

Operation Sindoor

On May 7, 2025, India carried out a precise military operation targeting nine terrorist camps in Pakistan-occupied areas. The action was taken in retaliation for the recent killing of 26 Indian tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. According to the Ministry of Defence, the strikes were strategically planned to destroy critical infrastructure used by terror groups active across the Line of Control (LoC).
In a resounding tribute to valor, dedication, and service to society, Zee Telugu News successfully hosted the Police Real Heroes Awards 2025 at the Telangana Police Command Control Centre, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad on 5th May 2025. The grand felicitation ceremony was organised to honour exceptional members of the Telangana Police Force, whose relentless commitment has played a vital role in ensuring law and order, protecting citizens, and delivering justice across the state.

Gracing the event as Chief Guest, Chief Minister Shri Revanth Reddy congratulated the award-winning officers, crediting the entire 95,000-strong force for making Telangana one of Indias safest and most prosperous states. He hailed the Telangana Police as the true guardians of modern society, protecting over 4 crore citizens with dedication and discipline. He compared their service to that of soldiers safeguarding the nations borders, calling it a powerful symbol of national duty and pride. Highlighting that peace and order are the foundation of progress, he said Telanganas safety has made it a magnet for global investments.

Civil Supplies and BC Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, Director General of Police Dr Jitender, and senior police officials were also present, reinforcing the forces critical role in building a progressive Telangana. DGP Dr Jitender proudly highlighted that Telangana Police ranks Number 1 in the India Justice Report, underscoring their commitment to transparency, efficiency, and people-first policing.

A deeply moving highlight of this on-ground celebration was the recognition of Telanganas real heroes in uniform  brave police personnel who have made remarkable contributions in safeguarding society through dedication, integrity, and courage. From tackling cybercrime and drug trafficking to ensuring smooth traffic management, enforcing law and order, countering terrorism, and building trust through community engagement, these officers represent the highest ideals of public service.

Among the honoured were KVM Prasad (ACP, Cyberabad Security Bureau), M Narsing Rao (DSP, Telangana ICCC), and Taviti Ravi Kumar (CI, Maheshwaram Zone), whose leadership in critical zones has strengthened internal security. V Upender Rao (SI, Ramagundam Task Force) and J Praveen (SI, CCS Bhadrachalam) were applauded for their on-ground vigilance. Recognised for their investigative expertise were Head Constables G Vishnu Vardhan Giri (CCS Nalgonda) and CH Srinivas (SPF Telangana). The dedicated trio of Marri Venkata Reddy, Veeraswamy, and Pradeep Reddy from Madhapur Police Station also received honours. Contributions from the digital front were marked by accolades to Head Constables Y Ram Reddy and D Ramesh Babu from the IT Cell. Constables Tallapalli Mahender (Yusufguda), P Shankar Vikram Kumar (ARPC, IT Cell Nalgonda), B. Shravan Kumar (Panjagutta Traffic), and M Naresh Kumar (Sathupalli), as well as Home Guard Minister Eshwarayya (Maheshwaram), were celebrated for their tireless ground-level efforts. The list of honourees also included distinguished officers such as G Gopinath (CI, Bhainsa), S Srikanth (SI, Sarangapur, Nirmal District), Hari Prasad (ACP, Panjagutta Traffic), and Billa Koteshwara Rao (CI), each of whom exemplified bravery, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to public welfare.

The awardees received medals and citations from dignitaries amid emotional standing ovations, as Zee Telugu News showcased their inspiring stories through a powerful documentary. Their courageous work, from frontline policing to tech-led surveillance, stood as a testament to their unwavering service. The evening was further enriched by patriotic performances, including a soulful tribute by Sa Re Ga Ma Pa winner Dasari Meghana Naidu and a graceful Kuchipudi dance by young prodigies Shubhagiri and Shanvi Kothari, blending tradition with national pride.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Umesh Sharaf, State Director  AP & Telangana, Zee Telugu News, said, The frontline heroes of a safer Telangana need to be honoured. Their selfless service, especially in todays complex law and order environment, needs to be spotlighted, celebrated, and remembered.

Mr Bharat, Editor of Zee Telugu News, reaffirmed the channels unwavering commitment to nation-building through principled journalism. In an era where sensationalism often overshadows substance, our mission is clear: to spotlight those who uphold the law and protect our communities with unwavering dedication. The 'Police Real Heroes Awards' are not merely accolades; they are a testament to our belief in truth-driven reporting and civic responsibility. By honoring these exemplary officers, we aim to inspire a culture of respect and admiration for those who serve with integrity, he highlighted.

He further emphasised, Young Indians need authentic role models  individuals who embody courage, discipline, and selfless service. Through these awards, we are not just recognising outstanding police personnel; we are presenting the youth with tangible examples of valor and commitment, fostering a legacy of values that will guide future generations.

The Police Real Heroes Awards 2025 is part of Zee Telugu News larger commitment to recognise unsung heroes and build a media ecosystem rooted in public interest, civic values, and social impact. The channel plans to continue this initiative annually, fostering greater public-police trust and awareness.
Airlines Issue Advisories Following Operation Sindoor: The Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor last night to avenge the recent Pahalgam terror attack, planned and executed by Pakistani terrorists. India carried out precision military strikes on terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). Following this, Indian airlines have issued advisories for passengers.

IndiGo Airlines, in a post on social media platform X, announced that due to changing airspace conditions in the region, flights to and from Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, and Dharamshala will be affected. The airline has requested passengers to check their flight status before heading to the airport. It also stated that flights to and from Bikaner may be impacted as well.

#6ETravelAdvisory: Due to changing airspace conditions in the region, our flights to and from #Srinagar, #Jammu, #Amritsar, #Leh, #Chandigarh and #Dharamshala are impacted. We request you to check your flight status at https://t.co/CjwsVzFov0 before reaching the airport.  IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) May 6, 2025

Due to the current situation, airports in Dharamshala, Leh, Jammu, Srinagar, and Amritsar in northern India have been shut until further notice. In light of this, SpiceJet has also issued an advisory, asking passengers to check their flight status before traveling.

#TravelUpdate: Due to ongoing situation, airports in parts of northern India, including Dharamshala (DHM), Leh (IXL), Jammu (IXJ), Srinagar (SXR), and Amritsar (ATQ), are closed until further notice. Departures, arrivals, and consequential flights may be impacted. Passengers are  SpiceJet (@flyspicejet) May 6, 2025

Air India has cancelled all its flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot until 12 noon today.

#TravelUpdate: Due to ongoing situation, airports in parts of northern India, including Dharamshala (DHM), Leh (IXL), Jammu (IXJ), Srinagar (SXR), and Amritsar (ATQ), are closed until further notice. Departures, arrivals, and consequential flights may be impacted. Passengers are  SpiceJet (@flyspicejet) May 6, 2025

Two international flights that were scheduled to arrive in Amritsar have been diverted to Delhi.
Delhi Flight Cancellations Today: Hours after the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, at least 35 flights to and from Delhi airport have been cancelled by various airlines, including foreign carriers reportedly.

According to media reports, 23 domestic departures and eight arrivals were cancelled. Besides, four international departures have been cancelled since 12 am. Foreign carriers, including American Airlines, cancelled some of their services from the Delhi airport, the source added.

Adding further, the operations at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport among the worst affected. As of 9 am on May 7, a total of 113 flights were been delayed, and 98 incoming and outgoing flights cancelled, causing inconvenience to passengers.

According to airport officials, delays and cancellations are primarily affecting routes to and from sensitive border regions. Flights operating to or from Leh, Srinagar, Chandigarh, and Amritsar have experienced the most disruptions, reflecting heightened security measures following the cross-border military action

#6ETravelAdvisory: Due to changing airspace conditions in the region, our flights to and from #Srinagar, #Jammu, #Amritsar, #Leh, #Chandigarh and #Dharamshala are impacted. We request you to check your flight status at https://t.co/CjwsVzFov0 before reaching the airport.  IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) May 6, 2025

Indigo Airlines Affected:

IndiGo Airlines, in a post on social media platform X, announced that due to changing airspace conditions in the region, flights to and from Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, and Dharamshala will be affected.

Important Travel Update:



Due to ongoing situation, our flights to and from Leh, Srinagar, Jammu, Kangra, Kandla & Amritsar are cancelled for 7th May25.



Please visit our website or log into our mobile app to check your flight status before leaving for airport.#flyspicejet pic.twitter.com/0WyF6PSDw4  SpiceJet (@flyspicejet) May 7, 2025

SpiceJet Issues Advisory

The airline has requested passengers to check their flight status before heading to the airport. It also stated that flights to and from Bikaner may be impacted as well. Meanwhile, SpiceJet has also issued an advisory, asking passengers to check their flight status before travelling.
Operation Sindoor Flight Updates: Domestic carriers issued fresh advisories for air travellers on Wednesday, cancelling more flights until May 10 following a notification from aviation authorities. Passengers have been advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport. This move comes after the Indian Armed Forces launched precision airstrikes against terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Wednesday as part of 'Operation Sindoor'.

Air India said that its flights to and from the following destinations  Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh and Rajkot  "are being cancelled till 0529 hrs IST on 10 May following a notification from aviation authorities on closure of these airports". Passengers holding valid tickets for travel during this period will be offered a one-time waiver on rescheduling charges or a full refund for cancellations, said the airline.

According to IndiGo, due to government notification on airspace restrictions, "over 165 IndiGo flights from multiple airports (Amritsar, Bikaner, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, Gwalior, Jammu, Jodhpur, Kishangarh, Leh, Rajkot, and Srinagar) are cancelled until 0529 hrs IST of May 10, 2025". Customers are encouraged to check their flight status on our website or mobile app before heading to the airport.

"Customers whose flights are affected can reschedule the booking on the next available flight or opt to cancel their bookings at no additional cost, and a full refund will be processed. These changes can be managed directly through our website," the low-cost carrier said in a fresh post on X.

Earlier, SpiceJet said that due to the ongoing situation, "airports in parts of northern India, including Dharamshala (DHM), Leh (IXL), Jammu (IXJ), Srinagar (SXR), and Amritsar (ATQ), are closed until further notice".

"Departures, arrivals, and consequential flights may be impacted. Passengers are advised to plan their journey accordingly and check flight status," it added. India carried out Operation Sindoor with precision, targeting terrorist infrastructure associated with groups responsible for the attack. (With IANS Inputs)
New Delhi: Pakistani actor Fawad Khan has found himself at the center of another controversy.

After India struck terrorist camps in Pakistan last night, the Abir Gulaal actor joined the bandwagon of Pakistani celebrities condemning the retaliation.

Following the ban of his film's release, the actor's condolence message has sparked outrage among Pakistani fans.

Fawad shared a story on his Instagram account, writing: My deepest condolences to the families of those injured and killed in this shameful attack. I pray for the souls of the deceased and strength for their loved ones in the days to come. A respectful request to all: stop stoking the flames with rabble-rousing words. It is not worth the lives of innocent people. May better sense prevail. InshaAllah. Pakistan Zindabad!

While Fawad's account has been blocked in India, a screenshot of the story is circulating online. It is also said that he deleted the post after facing intense criticism.

Pakistani Fans Criticise Fawad

Pakistani fans criticized the actor for not directly mentioning India in his story. Many speculated that he avoided doing so because of his association with the Indian film industry. Fawad was gearing up for his Bollywood comeback with Abir Gulaal alongside Vaani Kapoor, which was slated to release in theaters on May 9. However, following the brutal Pahalgam terror attack in April, the film's release was banned in India.

One user wrote, Dont need your condolences. There were calls to unfollow him as well, with comments like Unfollow him, attack him this way and High time our industry boycotts him.

Another wrote, To hell with his condolences. What is this blaming everything India did on rabble-rousing words? He still didnt speak anything against India. A third user commented, Where did he mention India?

One individual referred to him as "the puppet of India."

Another posted, "He lost all that respect."

Fawad Khan was last seen in Bollywood in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil in 2016.
Jay Goldberg, a senior analyst at Seaport Research, initiated coverage of Nvidia (NVDA) stock with a Sell rating last week.

According to Goldberg, who spoke with Yahoo Finance, "the good news is fully priced into Nvidia," while the company faces worrisome potential negative catalysts.

The Good News Is Priced In, But the Potential Bad News Isn't

Since NVDA's new Blackwell chips are already sold out for this year and the company cannot produce enough chips to meet demand, the firm will have difficulty beating analysts' average estimates, Goldberg believes.

On the other hand, investors "should be concerned about" potential negative catalysts that the firm is facing, the analyst stated.

"Semiconductors are cyclical, and it's important to remember that," Goldberg added.

China Issues and Potential Spending Slowdowns

"China would like to buy more of Nvidia's chips," but the tech giant will have a difficult time selling its products to the Asian country, due to geopolitical issues, Goldberg warned.

Meanwhile, starting next year, the spending on NVDA's chips by the large cloud infrastructure may be "paused" or at least "slowed," according to the analyst.

Goldberg holds that view because he has learned that the cloud firms' financial teams "are starting to ask questions" about the firms' spending on AI.

"Their CFOs could start asking" about the return on investment of the AI spending, he said.

While we acknowledge the potential of NVDA, our conviction lies in the belief that AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns, and doing so within a shorter timeframe. There is an AI stock that went up since the beginning of 2025, while popular AI stocks lost around 25%. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than NVDA but that trades at less than 5 times its earnings, check out our report about this cheapest AI stock.

READ NEXT: 20 Best AI Stocks To Buy Now and 30 Best Stocks to Buy Now According to Billionaires

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
New Delhi: Pakistani actress Hania Aamir was one of the first cross-border stars whose Instagram accounts were blocked by India in the wake of dastardly Pahalgam attack which took the innocent lives of 26 tourists. Recently, fans have found that the actress has made a new Instagram account with the username naaamtousunahogaa, which was also available for the Indian audience.

According to a Reddit post, one of the posts on the account read, Ye mere andar downfall me bhi mauj masti karne ki himmat aa kaha se rahi hai."

Soon after this news broke on social media, Pakistani fans bashed the move. Later, Hanias team issued a statement and clarified that she had no intention to please Indians for the sake of work. Attention please! Theres a misunderstanding going around about Hanias new account. Some people think shes trying to reach out to India for work or securing fans there, but thats not true," the statement read, reports News18.

Her old private account with us was deleted by Instagram, and she just made a new one with the same name. Unfortunately, it wasnt set to private yet, which led to the confusion. Lets clarify that Hanias actions have nothing to do with seeking work opportunities or following in India. We know her heart!" the team added.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday wee hours the Indian Armed Forces launched the Operation Sindoor, a targeted strike mission to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.
Mumbai: Actor Ayushmann Khurrana firmly stated that "Terrorism has no place in this world", showing his support to our armed forces after 'Operation Sindoor'. The 'Dream Girl' actor penned on his Instagram account, "Terrorism has no place in this world," along with an icon of our tricolor.

This was followed by a picture of 'Operation Sindoor' written in bold." The entire film fraternity has been speaking in unison as they applaud the Indian Army for a strong reply against the terror attack in Pahalgam.

Proud Indian, Kamal Haasan mentioned, "A proud India stands united with its armed forces. This is the resolute response of a strong nation that will not be divided by cowardly acts of terror. I applaud the decisive and strategic military action taken by Government of India. Jai Hind."

Dhanush wrote on X, "Our country stands united against terror...Proud of our armed forces...Jai hind." Thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi, actor Ajay Devgn penned on the micro-blogging site, "Saluting our Honourable Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi and our Indian forces. India stands tall and strong. Jai Hind!." Suniel Shetty shared, "Terror has no place. Zero Tolerance.

https://twitter.com/dhanushkraja/status/1892552681799008282

Total Justice #OperationSindoor." Actor Vivek Oberoi wrote on social media, Terror shall not prevail, India's spirit and power shall keep rising to reclaim the light and ensure such darkness never again stains our sacred soil.

The world must stand united against the evil of terror. Lets not fall prey to propaganda that tries to divide us, this is not a war against any religion or nation, its a war against terror. Operation Sindoor is a revenge for the tears of the widows of India and a stern warning to the terrorists that their evil deeds will no longer go unpunished, the 'Saathiya' actor added.

The Indian Armed Forces launched an attack against terrorism by targeting key terror hubs across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). Muridke, Bahawalpur, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir known for housing terror networks, were targeted by the Indian Armed forces during the surgical strike.
New Delhi: After India carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK), several Pakistani celebrities including Mahira Khan, Hania Aamir among others have strongly reacted to it.

Pakistani Celebs Condemn Operation Sindoor

Mahira Khan took to her Instagram handle and re-shared a post by Fatima Bhutto's tweet talking about the strikes. She wrote, "reposted writer Fatima Bhuttos tweet criticising the strikes and wrote, "Seriously cowardly!!! May Allah protect our country, may better sense prevail. Ameen."

Hania Aamir also reacted to the move with a one-word Instagram story, calling it Cowardly.

Mawra Hocane took to X (formerly Twitter) and condemned on the attack. She wrote, "Strongly condemn Indias cowardly attack on Pakistan.. Innocent civilians have lost their lives.. May Allah protect us all.. may sense prevail.. Ya Allah ho Ya Hafizo.. #PakistanZindabad."

India Strikes At 9 Terror Camps In Pakistan

Indian Armed Forces striked where they destroyed terrorist hideouts on Wednesday night, in response to the dastardly Pahalgam attack where 26 tourists were brutally killed.

The strikes were carried out to avenge the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India.

The Ministry of Defence, in its statement, said, "A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'OPERATION SINDOOR', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed."

"Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution," the statement added.

Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops.

(With ANI Inputs)
Mumbai: As part of Operation Sindoor, Indian Forces attacked the Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur, leaving 10 members of Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar's family dead.

Sharing a video of the Masjid post the surgical strike, actor Vijay Varma wrote, "Taste your own medicine." However, it feels like not everyone agreed with Vijay's point of view.

Replying to those, the 'Darlings' actor shared a note on his Instagram stories stating that Masood Azhar deserves an even harsher punishment for what he has done.

"For those who are triggered by the previous story.. Masood Azhar needs an even harsher punishment if there is. Hardened criminal. F**ker escaped justice back in 1999 with IC814 hijacking," Vijay's note read.

According to a statement attributed to Masood Azhar, the ones killed in the attack on Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur included his elder sister and her husband, a nephew and his wife, another niece, and five children from his extended family. The JeM chief also confirmed the demise of one of his close associates, his mother, and two other close companions during the attack by the Indian Armed Forces.

It must be noted that Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur served as JeMs central facility for command.

Masood Azhar is believed to be behind several terror attacks, including the Parliament attack, the terror strike at Pathankot airbase, and the 2019 suicide attack that led to the death of 40 CRPF personnel in South Kashmir.

He was among the three terrorists released by Indian authorities after the 1999 Kandahar hijacking of an Indian Airlines plane.

After being released, Masood Azhar went to Pakistan and came up with a new terrorist organisation, Jaish-e-Mohammed.

During the wee hours of May 7, the Indian Army attacked several terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir as part of Operation Sindoor.

The Indian army's attack was in response to the horrific Pahalgam attack on April 22.
Mumbai: Actor Milind Soman has strongly voiced his support for India's Operation Sindoor, emphasizing the need for zero tolerance towards terrorism. In a recent social media post, the actor and fitness icon condemned terrorism as a threat to humanity, democracy, and the well-being of ordinary citizens.

Soman praised the Indian government's decisive action and the bravery of the armed forces, urging the world to unite in the fight against terror. His firm stance aligns with the global call for the eradication of terrorism and the protection of peace and security.

Taking to Instagram, the Emergency actor shared a note that read, The world must unite! Terrorism is a challenge to humanity, democracy & the happiness of common people. The ideology must be destroyed by any means necessary. Salute Govt of India & Indian armed forces. Salute our allies. Zero Tolerance To Terrorism. #operationsindoor #jaihind.

(sic) In the wake of Operation Sindoor, several prominent celebrities have rallied in support of Indias decisive military action against terrorism, joining voices with Milind Soman. Among those showing their admiration for the operation were Raveena Tandon, Ajay Devgn, Rohit Shetty, Mahesh Babu, Chiranjeevi Konidela, Nimrat Kaur, Riteish Deshmukh, Akshay Kumar, Sonu Sood, Anupam Kher and Vidya Balan, all of whom praised the Indian Armed Forces for their strategic and precise response. Raveena Tandon, in particular, emphasized the defensive nature of the operation, stressing that the targeted strikes aimed solely at dismantling terror infrastructure, not civilians.

In a powerful message, she reflected on the enduring challenges posed by proxy wars and terror activities sponsored by hostile forces, which have claimed countless innocent lives. Operation Sindoor marked a significant moment in Indias ongoing battle against terrorism, showcasing a high level of precision and strategy by the Indian Armed Forces.

Launched in the early hours of May 7, the operation targeted key terror hubs across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), a direct response to rising threats and attacks on Indian soil. Among the targeted sites were Muridke, Bahawalpur, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmirareas notorious for housing terror networks.
New Delhi: India carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, according to CNN, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Indian Armed Forces striked where they destroyed terrorist hideouts on Wednesday night, marking New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades.

Reacting to the major development and victory of Indian Army in avenging deaths of Pahalgam attack where 26 tourists were brutally killed, many Bollywood celebrities have expressed their solidarity.

Jai Hind Ki Sena Bharat Mata Ki Jai!!! #OperationSindoor," Riteish Deshmukh wrote, showing solidarity with the armed forces following the strike in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26.

Madhur Bhandarkar posted, Our prayers are with our forces. One nation, together we stand. Jai Hind, Vande Mataram." While Nimrat Kaur said, United with our forces. One country. One mission. #JaiHind #OperationSindoor."

Our prayers are with our forces. One nation, together we stand. Jai Hind, Vande Mataram. pic.twitter.com/IyiOX8hqma  Madhur Bhandarkar (@imbhandarkar) May 6, 2025

Operation SINDOOR

Jai Hind  Hina Khan (@eyehinakhan) May 6, 2025

Indian Armys official handle had earlier posted, Justice is served. Jai Hind," confirming the action. Several politicians, including Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Bandi Sanjay Kumar, also reacted, praising the armed forces for avenging the Pahalgam victims.

The strikes were carried out to avenge the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India.

The Ministry of Defence, in its statement, said, "A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'OPERATION SINDOOR', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed."

"Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution," the statement added.

Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was constantly monitoring Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India.

(With ANI inputs)
Mumbai: Actor Vivek Oberoi has said that the recently conducted Operation Sindoor by Indian forces, at terror camps in Pakistan, was a careful and precise operation against terror. The actor, who has essayed PM Modi in the biopic PM Narendra Modi, took to his X, formerly Twitter, and penned a long note, as he lavished praise on the Indian forces for their acute sense of precision.

https://twitter.com/vivekoberoi/status/1920031223331639528

He wrote, Terror shall not prevail, India's spirit and power shall keep rising to reclaim the light and ensure such darkness never again stains our sacred soil. The world must stand united against the evil of terror.

Lets not fall prey to propaganda that tries to divide us, this is not a war against any religion or nation, its a war against terror. Operation Sindoor is a revenge for the tears of the widows of India and a stern warning to the terrorists that their evil deeds will no longer go unpunished, he added.

The recent strikes, a pre-dawn offensive codenamed Operation Sindoor, were carried across 9 terror sites in Pakistan. Indian forces specifically targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the Ministry of Defence confirmed in a press release issued.

Reportedly, surface-to-surface missiles were used to strike the terror camps in Pakistan. Pakistan, on its part, has unleashed a wave of misinformation and disinformation in order to swing the public opinion in their favour. However, media reports have pointed out collateral damage at a few places.

Pakistani officials also claimed to have shot down 5 Indian fighter jets, however, in the absence of any credible evidence, this claim seems to be an empty statement.

The move is a retaliation to the brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 25 Indian civilians and one Nepali national. New Delhi has said that the strikes were non-escalatory in nature.
Mumbai: Actress Raveena Tandon has voiced strong support for Operation Sindoor, praising Indias focused and restrained military response aimed solely at dismantling terror infrastructure.

Emphasizing that the countrys actions were defensive and not directed at civilians, Tandon hailed the operation as a clear message against terrorism while lauding the patience and courage of the armed forces and the Indian people. In a powerful social media note, the Mohra actress addressed the continued threat of proxy wars and terror activities sponsored by hostile forces, emphasizing the immense toll these have taken on innocent lives over the years.

Raveena shared a note that read, Bharat has always stood for peace and righteousness, Yet, for decades we have endured a proxy war, sponsored by hostile forces--costing countless innocent lives. Despite offering peace through many initiatives and talks. The world must now act against terror factories. Indias actions are well thought of, defensive, focus solely on eliminating terror threats-not civilians.

Our soldiers and our people have shown immense patience and courage. I stand firmly with my nation, our armed forces, our leadership and our people. May shri Ram guide us to destroy evil, never the innocent. Jai Bhawani, Jai Parvati Pataye Har Har Mahadev! Jai Hind. Indias first, the actress added.

Raveena Tandons heartfelt message joins a chorus of voices from the film and television industry applauding the bravery and precision of India's recent operations in defense of national security.

Prominent figures from the film and television industries took to social media to salute the courage, precision, and professionalism of the Indian armed forces. Celebrities such as Ajay Devgn, Chiranjeevi Konidela, Nimrat Kaur, Riteish Deshmukh, Akshay Kumar, Sonu Sood, Anupam Kher, and Vidya Balan were among the many who expressed heartfelt tributes and support for the operation.

Carried out in the early hours of May 7, the Indian Air Force launched a series of targeted strikes on terrorist locations within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Notably, these attacks were executed without breaching Pakistans airspace, catching their military off guard. In a statement aimed at maintaining diplomatic balance, the Ministry of Defence confirmed that no Pakistani military facilities were involved in the strikes, underlining the operations careful planning and singular focus on combating terrorism.
Chennai: Director Nahas Hidhayath, who is now working on his Malayalam film, 'I'm Game', featuring actor Dulquer Salmaan in the lead, on Tuesday welcomed actress Samyukth Viswanathan to the unit of the film.

Taking to his Instagram page, the director wrote, "We are delighted to announce the addition of the talented Samyuktha Viswanathan to the #ImGame team, enhancing our grace and charm. Welcome aboard, Samyuktha!" It may be recalled that the film officially went on floors only on May 3 this year.

Dulquer Salmaan had announced the commencement of shooting on his social media timelines. The popular actor, who is making a return to Malayalam cinema with 'I'm Game', wrote, "At long last we begin shooting of our highly ambitious film, Im Game ! We have assembled a wonderful team of technicians and actors and have been waiting to get started.

Wishing the entire team good luck and prayers for a fantastic first schedule!" It may be recalled that only a day before the film went on floors, the film's makers had welcomed one of Tamil cinema's top directors Mysskin onboard the project.

Taking to his timelines on social media, director Nahas Hidhayath had said, "We are absolutely thrilled to welcome the multifaceted, incredibly talented Mysskin Sir to the #ImGame team! Get ready for an exciting game ahead!" Mysskin was only the second actor to be welcomed aboard the unit.

The first actor to be named as part of the unit, after Dulquer Salmaan, was Antony Varghese, who is best known for his performance in the hit film, 'Angamalay Diaries'. The makers also welcomed Tamil actor Kathir, who played the lead in the critically acclaimed superhit film, 'Pariyaerum Perumal'.

The film's title poster, which was released a few days ago, features two hands, one placed over the other. While one of the hands holds a playing card, the other has a bandage, suggesting an injury. Produced by Dulquer Salmaan along with Jom Verghese, 'I'm Game' has triggered immense interest as this will mark his return to Malayalam cinema.

The story of 'I'm Game', which happens to be Dulquer's 40th film, is by Nahas Hidhayath himself while its screenplay is by Sajeer Baba, Bilal Moidu and Ismail Aboobacker. Cinematography for the film will be by Jimshi Khalid and editing will be by Chaman Chakko.

Music for the film, which has raised huge expectations among fans and film buffs, is by Jakes Bejoy. Costumes for the film are to be designed by Mashar Hamsa and production design will be by Deepak Parameshwaran.
Chennai: Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Telugu star Pawan Kalyan has now completed shooting for his eagerly awaited period action film Hari Hara Veera Mallu. Directed by Jyothi Krishna and Krish Jagarlamudi, the period action film is scheduled to hit screens on May 9 this year.

The film's unit, through an X handle created exclusively for the film, made the announcement. It said, "Powerstar @PawanKalyan Garu finishes shooting for #HariHaraVeeraMallu. The shoot wraps with a bang, and whats coming next will set screens on fire! A massive trailer and blockbuster songs are on the way!"

It may be recalled that director A M Jyothikrishna on Monday had tweeted that Pawan Kalyan would be joining the last two days of the film's shoot. Taking to his timeline on X, he said, "Powerstar @PawanKalyan Garu joins the last 2 days of the shoot for #HariHaraVeeraMallu. With this, the monumental journey of the shoot comes to a grand close.

https://twitter.com/HHVMFilm/status/1919727598814560447

Get ready for the long-awaited, EXPLOSIVE trailer and ELECTRIFYING songs are coming your way very soon! The countdown to the storm begins now." A historical adventure with soul-stirring music, Hari Hara Veera Mallu, produced by A. Dayakar Rao under the banner of Mega Surya Production, will be an epic tale of adventure during the Mughal empire under Aurangzeb.

The film portrays Indias complex socio-economic landscape during the period when foreign powers like the Dutch and Portuguese exploited the country's riches.

It may be recalled that a song titled Maata Vinali / Kekkanum Guruve that the makers released from the film had caught the attention of fans. The song, which appears during a crucial moment in the film, is set against the scenic backdrop of a forest.

The Telugu version of the song was penned by Penchal Das while the Tamil version was by lyricist Pa Vijay. What made the song of particular interest to fans was that Pawan Kalyan himself lent his voice for the Telugu version.

For the other languages, advanced AI technology was utilized to enhance and replicate Pawan Kalyans unique vocal tone, creating an authentic experience for fans worldwide. The music, composed by the iconic M.M. Keeravaani, is poised to join the league of timeless philosophical hits, reminiscent of classic MGR songs.

Apart from Pawan Kalyan, Hari Hara Veera Mallu will also feature Nidhhi Agerwal, Bobby Deol, and Nassar, supported by Raghu Babu, Subbaraju, Sunil, and many others.

The film has cinematography by Manoj Paramahamsa and Gnanashekar V.S., and production design by Thota Tharani.
Warren Buffett is stepping down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway (BRK-A, BRK-B) after leading the company to a mind-boggling run of stock outperformance against the S&P 500 (^GSPC).

From 1965 to 2024, Berkshire Hathaway stock has returned 5,502,284%. In that same time period, the S&P 500, with dividends included, has provided a return of 39,054%. Berkshire Hathaway's compound annual gain over that period tallied 19.9%. The S&P 500's return was 10.4%.

Digging into the details of Buffett's outperformance, most of Berkshire Hathaway's gain came in the first 20 years since Buffett took control of the company. Berkshire's consistent resilience compared to the broader market also stands out. In the 13 times the S&P 500 closed the year lower over the past 60 years, Berkshire fell more than the benchmark index only twice.

"The long-term trend is up," Buffett said at Berkshire Hathaway's annual shareholders meeting on Saturday.

During the meeting, Buffett addressed Berkshire Hathaway's growing pile of cash. At the end of the first quarter, Berkshire had amassed a cash pile of $347.7 billion. Buffett noted that his confidence in raising cash and not feeling the need to be fully invested at all times is one reason he's been successful over such a long period.

"We would rather have conditions that have developed where we would have, like, $50 billion or something like that," he said. "But that just isn't the way the business works."

Buffett added that if he made investments simply for the purpose of getting Berkshire's cash holdings down to $50 billion, "That would be the dumbest thing in the world to invest in that manner."

On Saturday, Buffett announced he planned to step down from his role as Berkshire Hathaway's CEO and pass his role onto Greg Abel.

"I think it's the time has arrived where Greg [Abel] should become the chief executive officer of the company at year-end," said Buffett, who was chairing his 60th annual meeting. "And I want to spring that on the directors, effectively, and give that as my recommendation."

Berkshire Hathaway's board unanimously approved the move on Sunday. Abel will become CEO on Jan. 1 2026, and Buffett will remain chairman of the board of directors.

Berkshire Hathaway chair Warren Buffett at Berkshire Hathaway's annual shareholder meeting in Omaha, Neb., on May 4, 2019. (Reuters/Scott Morgan)  REUTERS / Reuters

Josh Schafer is a reporter for Yahoo Finance. Follow him on X @_joshschafer.

Click here for the latest economic news and indicators to help inform your investing decisions

Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance
Amid India-Pakistan Tensions: India-Pakistan Under 'Operation Sindoor', the Indian Armed Forces launched a late-night airstrike targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The army took just 25 minutes for India to unleash 24 missiles that struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

The military handles threats on the ground and sky, citizens, too, have a role to playespecially in the digital world. The widespread use of smartphones and social media has brought convenience, but it also comes with a significant security challenges when used irresponsibly.

In the era of information warfare, even an unintentional digital misstep can have serious national security implications. Let's look at the five essential precautions every smartphone user should follow to support the Indian Army and maintain national security:

Refrain from Sharing Sensitive Content

Avoid posting pictures, videos, or location-based updates that involve military personnel, vehicles, or camps. Even seemingly harmless uploads can provide vital clues to hostile entities through geotagging or identifiable landmarks.

Verify Before You Share

The spread of fake news remains a major concern. Before forwarding any content related to military operations or national security, check its authenticity. Rely only on official sources such as PIB, Ministry of Defence, or verified news outlets. Spreading misinformation can escalate panic and disrupt defense efforts.

Stay Wary of Unknown Links and Apps

Hackers and cybercriminals often target civilians with malicious links or unofficial apps that appear to offer defense updates. Download apps only from trusted sources, and never click on unfamiliar links claiming to offer exclusive military footage.

Keep Your Device Secure

Ensure your smartphones software and applications are updated regularly. These updates often include critical security patches that protect your device from potential cyber threats and unauthorized access.

Report Suspicious Digital Activity

If you receive messages, calls, or social media requests from unknown sources asking about military details or urging you to share such content, report them immediately to cybercrime authorities or local law enforcement.
Pakistan has been put on a 'red alert', with government hospitals across the country ready for any emergency; airspace for all domestic and international flights closed for at least 24 to 36 hours; all educational institutions in capital Islamabad and the Punjab province closed; and, all forces on stand by following the late night Indian air strikes on terror hideouts in different parts of the country.

Pakistan's Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lt. General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said that at least 26 people have been killed and 46 others injured in the airstrikes that New Delhi said targeted terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Punjab province.

The Indian strikes and Islamabad's retaliation have jolted locals who fear that it could potentially lead to a full-scale war between the two countries. They were conducted in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 civilians were brutally gunned down by four militants, two of them allegedly hailing from Pakistan.

The strikes targeted six different locations inside Pakistan, including Masjid SubhanAllah - the alleged hideout of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Maulana Masood Azhar in Ahmedpur Sharqia area of Bahawalpur city in Pakistan's South Punjab province.

Multiple strikes were also conducted in other areas, including Muridke, the alleged hideout and headquarters of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jamaat ud Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed, besides other locations in Muzaffarabad, Kotli, and Bagh cities.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who will address the nation on Wednesday afternoon, called an emergency National Security Committee (NSC) meeting at the Prime Minister's House to discuss the current security situation in the country and the future course of action against India.

The crucial meeting will formulate policy and also contemplate the interventions by global powers, including the United States, which has called on both sides to show restraint and de-escalate the fast-aggravating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
Operation Sindoor: In a strong reaction to a report by China's Global Times, India urged the media organisation to "verify facts" and cross-examine sources. The controversy surrounded the report's claim that three Indian fighter jets were shot down by the Pakistani Air Force (PAF) after India launched 'Operation Sindoor,' a military operation targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

"Dear @globaltimesnews, we would recommend you verify your facts and cross-examine your sources before pushing out this kind of dis-information," wrote the Embassy of India in Beijing in a series of posts on X.

(1/n) Dear @globaltimesnews , we would recommend you verify your facts and cross-examine your sources before pushing out this kind of dis-information. https://t.co/xMvN6hmrhe  India in China (@EOIBeijing) May 7, 2025

"Several pro-Pakistan handles are spreading baseless claims in the context of #OperationSindoor, attempting to mislead the public. When media outlets share such information without verifying sources, it reflects a serious lapse in responsibility and journalistic ethics," it added in another post.

(2/n) Several pro-Pakistan handles are spreading baseless claims in the context of #OperationSindoor, attempting to mislead the public.

When media outlets share such information without verifying sources, it reflects a serious lapse in responsibility and journalistic ethics.  India in China (@EOIBeijing) May 7, 2025

Global Times reported that "The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has shot down another Indian fighter jet in response to overnight airstrikes carried out by India at multiple locations in Pakistan."

The media organisation cited sources from the Pakistani military.

Earlier, PIB Fact Check in a post on X had informed that Pakistani accounts sharing a video of a crash, claiming that Pakistan shot down another Indian fighter plane.

It clarified, "The video being shared is from February 2025 and depicts the crash of an Indian Air Force (IAF) Mirage 2000 aircraft near Shivpuri, Gwalior, which occurred during a routine training mission."

Pakistani accounts sharing video of a crash, claiming #Pakistan has shot down another Indian fighter plane.#PIBFactCheck



The video being shared is from February 2025 and depicts the crash of an Indian Air Force (IAF) Mirage 2000 aircraft near Shivpuri, Gwalior, which pic.twitter.com/IJEcJqlFKg  PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 7, 2025

Operation Sindoor Details

The Indian Armed Forces provided detailed insights into Operation Sindoor, the precision strike operation launched on the terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This was carried out as a retaliation for the gruesome attack in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam on April 22.

The strikes were carried out between 1:05 am and 1:30 am on Wednesday and involved a coordinated effort by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

In a press briefing in Delhi hours, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh provided details on the airstrike attack. A total of nine terror sites in Pakistan, including five in PoK, linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) were targeted with planning and the aim to avoid civilian casualties.
The latest investment brings the total capital raised by the company to $30m.

The launch into the US signifies a key phase in Onebeat's growth trajectory as it continues to transform retail inventory execution on a global scale.

Schooner Capital managing director Orhan Gazelle said: Onebeat has demonstrated exceptional leadership, cutting-edge technology, and impressive momentum. Were excited to support their expansion and be part of their journey as they expand into the US market and revolutionise retail operations on a global scale.

Established in 2018 by Goldratt Groups supply chain members, Onebeat has a presence in Latin America, Europe, Middle East, and Africa, and Asia-Pacific region. The company supported brands such as Calvin Klein, Panasonic, and Aramis.

The platform is designed to help address the challenges faced by omnichannel retailers due to changing consumer expectations for variety and immediacy. These challenges include bloated inventory levels, tied-up capital, and eroding margins.

It is estimated that 15-30% of manufactured clothing is never sold and becomes waste. Traditional forecast-based systems have often led to inefficiencies such as stock imbalances and missed sales opportunities.

Onebeat's platform enables retailers to make dynamic decisions at the stock keeping unit (SKU)-store level regarding replenishment, allocation, and liquidation on a daily basis.

Retailers using the Onebeat platform can expect enhanced product availability, reduced waste, and measurable financial improvements within 120 days.

The platform is claimed to deliver a 15% increase in sell-through rates, a 71% decrease in stockouts, a 33% reduction in inventory levels, a 60% acceleration in inventory turnover, and a 35% increase in profit margins.

Onebeat CEO and co-founder Dr Yishai Ashlag said: "Retailers today dont need more data  they need intelligent AI-driven execution. Thats why we built Onebeat as a new kind of AI-powered retail operating system  one that translates data into real-time, revenue-driving execution.

"This investment from Schooner Capital is more than capital  its a powerful vote of confidence in our global impact and our vision. With their support, were ready to scale our momentum and bring agile, intelligent retail to the US market."

Onebeat's platform, which is implemented by over 220 retailers worldwide, allows retail organisations to respond swiftly to market demands and optimise profitability through precise inventory management.

Panasonic group manager Kenichi Koyama and Daisuke Ihara said: Onebeat gave us a common language across production, logistics, and sales  so we could chase one goal: never run out of stock. Inventory became visible, actions clear, and excess slashed. Now, were faster, leaner, and ready for whatever demand throws at us.
Ukraine warned Tuesday against any foreign troop participation in Russias May 9 parade to mark 80 years since the defeat of Nazi Germany, saying it would be unacceptable and seen as helping Moscow whitewash its war crimes, Azernews reports, citing Arab News.

A handful of countries have in recent years sent their militaries to take part in Russias traditional May 9 parade  a showpiece event that has become the countrys most important public holiday under President Vladimir Putins quarter-century in power.

The Russian army has committed and continues to commit atrocities in Ukraine on a scale that Europe has not seen since World War II, Kyivs foreign ministry said.

It is this army that will march on Red Square in Moscow on May 9. These people are not liberators of Europe, they are occupiers and war criminals.

Kyiv said marching with Russian soldiers would be considered as sharing responsibility for Moscows actions during its three-year Ukraine invasion.

To march side by side with them is to share responsibility for the blood of murdered Ukrainian children, civilians and military, not to honor the victory over Nazism.

Ukraine was one of the most devastated countries during World War II, with Kyiv saying it touched every Ukrainian family.

The foreign ministry also said that six million Ukrainians fought in the Red Army  with five million Ukrainian civilians killed and three million Ukrainian troops.

Russian leader Vladimir Putin attributed the victory over Nazism in Europe as a feat primarily achieved by the Russian nation.

Central Asian troops have often taken part in the Moscow parade.

The Kremlin has this year not ruled out that North Korean soldiers could take part for the first time, after Pyongyangs troops helped Moscow oust Ukrainian soldiers from Russias Kursk region.
OpenAI, an AI research lab backed by Microsoft, has agreed to acquire Windsurf, an AI-assisted coding tool, for approximately $3bn, reported Bloomberg citing people familiar with the matter.

This acquisition is expected to enhance ChatGPT's coding functionalities and marks OpenAIs largest acquisition deal to date.

Both OpenAI and Windsurf declined to comment on the matter, the report said.

In April 2025, Bloomberg reported that OpenAI was in talks to acquire Windsurf.

Windsurf, which was previously known as Codeium, has been engaging with investors such as Kleiner Perkins and General Catalyst for a funding round.

Windsurf was seeking valuation of around $3bn.

The startup achieved a valuation of $1.25bn in August 2024 after a $150m funding round led by General Catalyst. Kleiner Perkins and Greenoaks are also among the investors in Windsurf.

In April 2025, OpenAI raised $40bn in a new funding round, propelling its valuation to a post-money total of $300bn.

The funding round was led by Japanese multinational investment holding company SoftBank Group. It saw participation from existing investors including Microsoft, Coatue Management, Thrive Capital, and Altimeter Capital.

SoftBank said it will syndicate up to $10bn of the $40bn investment to co-investors, with its effective investment amount expected to reach $30bn.

OpenAI plans to use the funds to support ongoing AI research and infrastructure scaling efforts, with a focus on delivering advanced tools.

The funding will also help OpenAI in continue developing AI systems to drive scientific discovery, allow personalised education, and improve enhance human creativity.

"OpenAI to acquire Windsurf for $3bn" was originally created and published by Verdict, a GlobalData owned brand.




(Reuters) -OpenAI has agreed to buy artificial intelligence-assisted coding tool Windsurf for about $3 billion, Bloomberg News reported on Monday, citing people familiar with the matter.

The deal has not yet closed, the report added.

OpenAI declined to comment, while Windsurf did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment.

Windsurf, formerly known as Codeium, had recently been in talks with investors, including General Catalyst and Kleiner Perkins, to raise funding at a $3 billion valuation, according to Bloomberg News.

It was valued at $1.25 billion last August following a $150 million funding round led by venture capital firm General Catalyst. Other investors in the company include Kleiner Perkins and Greenoaks.

The deal, which would be OpenAI's largest acquisition to date, would complement ChatGPT's coding capabilities. The company has been rolling out improvements in coding with the release of each of its newer models, but the competition is heating up.

OpenAI has made several purchases in recent years to boost different segments of its AI products. It bought search and database analytics startup Rockset in a nine-figure stock deal last year, to provide better infrastructure for its enterprise products.

OpenAI's weekly active users surged past 400 million in February, jumping sharply from the 300 million weekly active users in December.

The company is also planning to raise up to $40 billion in a new funding round led by SoftBank Group at a $300 billion valuation.

(Reporting by Chandni Shah and Deborah Sophia in Bengaluru; Editing by Arun Koyyur, Alan Barona and Mrigank Dhaniwala)
By Krystal Hu, Arsheeya Bajwa, Aditya Soni and Anna Tong

(Reuters) - OpenAI has dialed back a significant restructuring plan, with its nonprofit parent retaining control in a move that is likely to limit CEO Sam Altman's power over the pioneering maker of ChatGPT.

The announcement follows a storm of criticism and legal challenges, including a high-profile lawsuit filed by rival and co-founder Elon Musk, who has accused OpenAI of straying from its founding mission to develop artificial intelligence for the benefit of humanity.

"OpenAI was founded as a non-profit, is today a non-profit that oversees and controls the for-profit, and going forward will remain a non-profit that oversees and controls the for-profit. That will not change," Altman said in a blog post on Monday.

OpenAI had outlined plans in December to convert its for-profit arm into a public benefit corporation, a structure designed to balance shareholder returns with social goals, unlike nonprofits, which are solely focused on public good. Under that proposal, the nonprofit parent would have been a big shareholder in the PBC but would cede control over the startup.

On Monday, OpenAI said the nonprofit parent would continue to control the PBC and become a big shareholder in it. The company will push ahead with plans to change the structure of its for-profit arm to allow more capital-raising to keep pace in the AI race.

The move to an outright for-profit was intended to help OpenAI raise more capital and ease restrictions tied to its nonprofit parent. But it sparked concerns over whether the company would fairly allocate assets to the nonprofit and how it would balance profit-making with its mission to develop AI for the public good.

"We made the decision for the nonprofit to stay in control after hearing from civic leaders and having discussions with the offices of the Attorneys General of California and Delaware," Bret Taylor, chairman of OpenAI's board, said in a blog post, adding that the new announcement meant the startup would continue to have a structure "extremely close" to the current one.

Altman called the move a compromise "that (works) well enough for investors that they're happy to continue to fund us to a degree we think we will need." He said OpenAI would work with major backer Microsoft, regulators and newly appointed nonprofit commissioners to finalize the updated plan, and decide how much equity stake in the for-profit business each party would receive.

"We believe this is well over the bar of what we need to be able to fundraise," Altman said, adding there were "no changes to any existing investor relationships" and that the company would proceed with the earlier plan to remove caps on the profit that investors can earn.
By Arsheeya Bajwa

(Reuters) -Palantir Technologies raised its annual sales forecast on Monday, although its inline profit and a modest revenue beat disappointed investors who were expecting more from the AI-focused data and analytics firm, driving its shares down 8% in extended trading.

The stock has been one of the biggest gainers of a rally in AI-linked shares, rising more than 60% this year, as investors placed huge bets on its ability to benefit from widescale AI deployments and increased government spending on defense-related tech.

"The only thing that's higher than the results reported were expectations, and that's why the stock is down," said D.A. Davidson analyst Gil Luria. "Investors expected even more."

Palantir reported adjusted profit of 13 cents per share for the first quarter that was in line with analysts' average estimate, according to data from LSEG.

The company reported revenue of $883.9 million for the period, just about 2.4% above the estimates of $862.8 million.

"Investors were hoping for fireworks, not just results. Maybe a ... 10 times revenue beat," said Michael Ashley Schulman, chief investment officer of Running Point Capital.

For fiscal year 2025, the Denver, Colorado-based company now expects revenue in between $3.89 billion and $3.90 billion, up from its earlier forecast of sales between $3.74 billion and $3.76 billion. Analysts on average expect $3.75 billion in annual sales. It also forecast second-quarter revenue above estimates.

Co-founded by tech billionaire Peter Thiel, a significant portion of the company's revenue still comes from its services for governments, such as supplying software that visualizes the position of troops in a battle.

The U.S. government represented more than 42% of revenue in the three months ended March 31.

Big U.S. government contractors such as Accenture and IBM have flagged a hit from cost-cutting efforts by President Donald Trump's administration mostly through the Department of Government Efficiency.

During an interview with Reuters, Palantir's executives did not directly address questions on whether DOGE spending cuts, spearheaded by billionaire Elon Musk, would impact the company's contracts.

"Focus on efficiency is excellent for Palantir. We very much support a push by the U.S. government to push on efficiency across the government," finance chief David Glazer told Reuters.

(Reporting by Arsheeya Bajwa in Bengaluru; Editing by Anil D'Silva)
Indonesian consumer electronics manufacturer Polytron, owned by the local Djarum Group, entered the domestic vehicle market this week with the launch of a locally-assembled battery electric vehicle (BEV) model, produced in partnership with Chinas Skyworth Automobile Intelligence Company Ltd. Polytron, more widely known in Indonesia as a producer of TVs, refrigerators, air conditioning systems and other household electronics, began producing battery-powered motorcycles in 2022.

Polytron this week became the first Indonesian company to introduce a domestically branded BEV, the G3 medium-sized SUV, based on the Skyworth K model, which is also available in other markets in South-east Asia. It has a driving range of 402 km and is powered by lithium ferro phosphate (LFP) 52 kW batteries.

Polytron claims that the G3 (and G3+) are more than the result of a rebadging exercise, but rather the product of a deeper product development collaboration between the two companies  including local hardware and software development. The vehicles are produced at a plant in Kudus, in Central Java, mainly from knocked-down parts imported from China.

The two companies have set a target of producing around 10,000 Polytron BEVs in the next three years, mainly for the local market.

"Polytron introduces first domestic-branded BEV in Indonesia" was originally created and published by Just Auto, a GlobalData owned brand.




Less than a year after Rite Aid finally wrapped up its first bankruptcy proceedings, its now reportedly planning to file for Chapter 11 protection a second time.

Most Read from Fast Company



Based on a new report from Bloomberg, Rite Aid employees received a letter today from CEO Matthew Schroeder stating that the companys negotiations with lenders for more capital have failed. He went on to explain that the pharmacy chain can no longer sustain itself and intends to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Per the letter, the company will start by cutting jobs at its corporate offices in Pennsylvania, a move Schroeder attributed to the dramatic downturn in the economy. An apparent copy of the letter is now making its rounds on Reddit, though Rite Aid has not publicly verified its accuracy.

As of this writing, Rite Aid has not officially confirmed a second bankruptcy filing or publicly acknowledged the alleged impending job cuts. Fast Company has reached out to the pharmacy chain for more information on the report and will update this story accordingly.

Bitter pills

Over the past several years, Rite Aid has struggled with the Sisyphean task of recovering from an initial bankruptcybut now, it seems that its restructuring efforts have fallen short.

Rite Aid first filed for Chapter 11 back in 2023, a move that was intended to help the company reduce its debt. As part of the process, the chain received a financing commitment of $3.45 billion from lenders.

In the following months, Rite Aid closed hundreds of stores across the U.S. to reduce costs and turn its finances around.

As Fast Company reported in April, Rite Aid store closures have continued this year, with local media in New Jersey, California, and Oregon reporting on such closings recently.

Emerging from bankruptcy a year ago

Last June, Rite Aid asked for court approval of its restructuring plan, which was ultimately granted, allowing the company to emerge from the bankruptcy proceedings in September. At the time, the company reported that it had eliminated $2 billion of total debt and received $2.5 billion in exit financing.

Now, though, it looks like that wasnt enough to get the company back on track. According to several previous reports from Bloomberg, the writing has been on the wall for this second Chapter 11 filing for several weeks.

Late last month, Bloomberg reported that Rite Aid was low on cash and seeking a debtor-in-possession (DIP) loan, with the end goal of selling itself in pieces as part of this next bankruptcy. Per sources close to the company, Rite Aid will sell certain store locations to bidders, while others will be closed permanently.

This post originally appeared at fastcompany.com

Subscribe to get the Fast Company newsletter: http://fastcompany.com/newsletters
(Reuters) - Rivian said on Monday it would invest $120 million to build a supplier park near its plant in Illinois, as the electric vehicle-maker gears up to produce its smaller, more affordable R2 SUVs next year.

The supplier park near Rivian's facility at Normal, Illinois will reduce shipping, logistics and warehousing costs, while adding hundreds of jobs in the next two years, including about 100 directly by the company, it said.

Rivian builds all its EVs at the Normal plant, including its flagship R1S SUVs and R1T pickup trucks.

"This will be a key enabler to increasing production at the plant in 2026 when we start to build R2 in addition to R1 and our commercial vans," CEO RJ Scaringe said in a blog.

Some Rivian suppliers will manufacture and assemble some parts at the park, which is under construction, Rivian said. Rivian employees will then kit and sequence the parts that will be moved to the main plant through an underground tunnel.

To conserve cash and hasten the production of R2 - seen critical to the company's success amid a slowdown in EV growth - Rivian paused construction of a plant in Georgia last year and decided to start building R2 at Normal.

The company plans to eventually build the R2 SUVs, as well as its R3 crossovers at the Georgia plant from 2028.

In April, Rivian reported a 36% decline in first-quarter deliveries. CFO Claire McDonough had said in February that vehicle deliveries would be lower this year due to soft demand, partially because of the impact of fires in Los Angeles.

The company is set to report first-quarter earnings on Tuesday.

Rivian's investment in the supplier park coincides with the ongoing challenge automakers face due to tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump on vehicle and auto parts imports. The tariffs are expected to disrupt supply chains and raise prices of automobiles.

Last week, Trump signed two orders to soften the blow of his auto tariffs, with a mix of credits and relief from other levies on materials.

While Rivian makes its vehicles in the U.S., it imports many of its parts from abroad.

(Reporting by Juby Babu in Mexico City and Abhirup Roy in San Francisco; Editing by Leroy Leo and Mohammed Safi Shamsi)
In an upcoming official visit, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to deliberate on a series of critical topics including the proposed Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline.

Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov confirmed the discussion agenda on Tuesday, highlighting energy cooperation as a key point of interest, reported Reuters.

The talks come as President Xi embarks on a four-day visit to Moscow, joining other global leaders to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germany's defeat.

Ushakov, addressing the media, acknowledged Russia's status as China's primary oil and gas provider and confirmed that the Power of Siberia 2 pipeline would be a subject of negotiation.

The proposed pipeline, which would traverse Mongolia, has taken on new significance as Russia seeks to pivot from Europe to China for its gas exports.

The 2,600km pipeline is designed to transport up to 50 billion cubic metres (bcm) of gas annually, a capacity comparable to the now-defunct Nord Stream 1 pipeline that once connected Russia and Germany.

This development occurs amidst the EU's declaration to cease reliance on Russian energy, aiming to halt the import of Russian oil and gas, and phase out nuclear energy within the bloc.

The European Commission unveiled the REPowerEU Roadmap, outlining a strategy to achieve complete energy independence from Russia.

The plan involves a phased exclusion of Russian oil, gas and nuclear energy from EU markets, ensuring stable energy supply and price stability across member states.

The commission is coordinating with EU nations to implement a gradual and secure phase-out of Russian energy imports, with member states expected to submit national plans by year's end.

The EU aims to cut Russian gas imports by one-third by the end of the current year and completely stop Russian gas imports by the end of 2027, including the prevention of new gas contracts and termination of existing spot contracts by the end of 2025.

Additionally, the commission is set to introduce measures targeting Russia's "shadow fleet", which is involved in oil transportation, as part of a broader effort to diminish the EU's energy dependency on Russia.

"Russia, China to discuss energy cooperation and proposed Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline" was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




Benzinga and Yahoo Finance LLC may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.

Reality TV star and Skinnygirl low-cal margarita maven Bethenny Frankel took to TikTok to announce her departure from New York for Miami.

The ever-chic former star of Bravos "The Real Housewives of New York", who was born in Queens, said that her move was for personal and professional growth reasons. Realtor.com reports that Frankel has also been quietly looking for a buyer for her Greenwich, Connecticut home, which is listed for $8 million.

Don't Miss:

Scrolling To UBI'  Deloitte's #1 fastest-growing software company allows users to earn money on their phones. You can invest today for just $0.30/share with a $1000 minimum.

Maker of the $60,000 foldable home has 3 factory buildings, 600+ houses built, and big plans to solve housing  you can become an investor for $0.80 per share today.

Multi-Million Dollar Fortune

Although Frankel purchased a home in Miami last year for $1.7 million, She also added another home in Manhattan as she confirmed on TikTok  that she would not be leaving New York entirely. Frankels personal residence prior to announcing her move was in the Hamptons, New York, on a property she purchased in 2023 for $5.45 million.

Frankel has made a multi-million dollar fortune from reality TV and business ventures. She starred in "RHONY" for eight of its 14 seasons. Frankel and her former partner, Jason Hoppy, also starred in Bethenny Getting Married on Bravo, which documented the couples engagement, marriage, and the birth of their daughter. She also hosted a short-lived talk show that lasted a year, debuting in 2013.

Trending: Maximize saving for your retirement and cut down on taxes: Schedule your free call with a financial advisor to start your financial journey  no cost, no obligation.

Skinnygirls $100 Million Success Story

Frankel tried her hand at starting a food business in 2003, launching Bethenny Bakes, offering baked goods and a meal delivery service with limited success. However, what really made Frankel her fortune was Skinnygirl Cocktails, which, when launched in 2008, initially sold a pre-packaged low-calorie margarita. By 2011, according to research firm Technomic, it was the fastest-growing spirit brand in the country. Soon after Frankel sold the company to Fortune Brands Beam Global, which is now a part of Suntory, for an estimated $100 million, keeping the rights to the name.

The Bethenny Clause

However, Frankels savvy business move was to insist Bravo had no financial rights to anything she made outside of the show. Frankel explained on Instagram that she accepted just $7,250 for the first season of "RHONY."
By Helen Reid

LONDON (Reuters) -Growing numbers of retailers and consumer brands are shifting their focus to Europe and other markets from the United States, as they expect U.S. tariffs to spark price hikes that will drive American consumer demand down.

European online fashion retailer Zalando, which sells logistics and software services to other retailers, said on Tuesday it was in talks with prospective new clients looking to expand in the European market.

"We see brands and retailers really having a larger focus on Europe as a way to also generate additional demand if it gets more difficult to do this in the U.S.," Zalando co-CEO David Schroeder said.

U.S. President Donald Trump's administration has slapped a blanket 10% tariff on all imports into the country, and 145% tariffs on goods made in China.

German clothing brand Hugo Boss has rerouted China-manufactured products to other markets instead of the U.S., and said there was a "notable deterioration" in U.S. consumer spending in the first quarter due to growing uncertainty over the economy.

"We are currently taking a rather cautious stance regarding consumer behavior in the U.S.," its CEO Daniel Grieder said on Tuesday as the company reported lower revenues compared to last year.

The reaction highlights the impact of Trump's tariffs on the flow of consumer products around the globe, forcing companies to shake up long-established patterns of manufacturing and sales.

Key will be how U.S. consumers react to price increases as a result of tariffs.

Barbie maker Mattel on Monday pulled its annual guidance, saying there was too much uncertainty over consumer spending, and that tariffs would force it to raise prices in the U.S.

For its card game UNO, Mattel said it was shipping more China-manufactured games internationally to avoid U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods, while increasing production of UNO in India to serve U.S. customers.

The CEO of Italian fashion group OTB, which owns brands including Diesel, Jil Sander and Maison Margiela, said on Monday it would have to increase its prices in the U.S. by 8-9% to offset the impact of tariffs.

While European brands previously proudly advertised their sales to U.S. consumers, world leaders in spending on clothes and shoes, they have pivoted to trying to reassure investors they are not overly exposed.

The U.S. accounts for around 20% of German sportswear brand Adidas' business, CEO Bjorn Gulden said last week in a results call, adding that "for 80% of our business these tariffs have no impact".
Some 160 students across the country participated in the Financial Investment Club competition, which is sponsored by a nonprofit organization called the Base Chicago that works to help students in disadvantaged areas. A total of 22 Brockton High School students took part in the competition through Empower Yourself , a financial and STEM education program based in Brockton.

Current Brockton High School students have been building on Gills legacy with their own stock-picking prowess, creating a subculture at the school centered around learning about the stock market and investing. And last year, students from the school clinched the top five places in a nationwide stock-investing contest, winning a total of $15,000 in prize money in the form of an investment portfolio and scholarship funds.

Back in 2004, long before he earned notoriety under the monikers Roaring Kitty and DeepFingValue, Gill was himself a senior at Brockton High. Seventeen years later, Gills social-media-fueled exploits sent shares of AMC Entertainment Holdings Inc. AMC and GameStop Corp. GME skyrocketing, punishing the Wall Street hedge funds that had bet against them. Gill became a hero of the little-guy investor and landed before the House Committee on Financial Services, where he famously declared,  I am not a cat . Gill inspired the Hollywood movie  Dumb Money , then disappeared from public view for a few years before briefly returning to social media in 2024 to push meme stocks into the spotlight once again.

But now a group of Brockton students is following in the footsteps of another famous alumnus  Keith Gill, a trader who played a pivotal role in the 2021 meme-stock explosion  and finding purpose and success in stock trading.

With more than 3,500 students, Brockton High School is the biggest high school in Massachusetts, having become known in recent years for chronic understaffing. Mirroring the nickname of its sports teams, called the Boxers after famous alumni Rocky Marciano and Marvin Hagler, the school has also earned a reputation for bouts of student violence, including hallway fights.

Story Continues

This is truly a big deal, Kevin McCaskill, the principal of Brockton High School, told MarketWatch. When students are exposed to programming like this, they can achieve anything.

McCaskill acknowledged the challenges Brockton has faced in tackling the issue of student violence in recent years. About 15% of the population of Brockton, Mass., lives in poverty, well above the state average, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

The school community has come together to create systemic change in dealing with the violence problem, McCaskill told MarketWatch. Were redefining who we are as a school, he said.

McCaskill, who has been the principal since January 2024, said that Cedric Turner, the founder and executive director of Empower Yourself, told him about Gills connection to the school. Empower Yourself has been operating within Brockton High School for several years, and it was Turner who invited the students to take part in the Financial Investment Club competition.

I said to them: Are you guys interested?  Turner told MarketWatch. Their response was, Absolutely! 

The students each received $1 million in mock money to trade over the course of nine months. They each created their own portfolio holding a minimum of 12 stocks. They had to own at least three stocks in three different S&P 500 SPX sectors and could invest no more than 15% of their total funds in a single stock.

Forget GameStop: Nvidia and Novo Nordisk were winners

Brockton High School is the largest high school in Massachusetts, and in New England. - Marc Vasconcellos

Like many investors, Henry Ani spent last year betting on the artificial-intelligence trend through chip maker Nvidia NVDA. At the time, Ani was a freshman at Brockton High School. He kept Nvidia in his virtual stock portfolio because of the companys significant growth and because AI chips were cementing themselves as an essential part of the tech sector.

AI chips were becoming increasingly more important, Ani told MarketWatch. Other chip makers in the industry would also try to replicate Nvidia with AI chips, so as an attempt to diversify my portfolio, I purchased shares of other similar [companies].

Ani, who is now 16 and a sophomore, claimed the top spot in last years stock-picking competition.

In addition to technology, the high schooler also targeted the consumer-discretionary and healthcare sectors, taking positions in Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. CMG and Danish drug manufacturer Novo Nordisk DK:NOVO.B. I purchased stock in these sectors because I had intent to diversify my portfolio, and generally companies in consumer discretionary see stability, low risk, and receive growth, he told MarketWatch.

My purchase of Novo Nordisk was due mainly to looking at the companys involvement in obesity-combating drugs and viewing the company from the technical-analysis standpoint, Ani added, citing the weight-loss drug Wegovy. It was due to the need to diversify my portfolio and also wanting a stock that was gradually increasing.

Tesla Inc. TSLA was initially in Anis portfolio, but he ultimately sold the shares. I had Tesla at the beginning, but it was unstable, so I sold it, he said. I noticed through technical analysis Tesla had certain patterns that could result in growth, but due to the many actions taken by its CEO [Elon Musk], the general image of the company was disrupted, causing many to sell the company at unpredictable times when an event like this occurred.

Ani told MarketWatch that he learned a lot about both investment strategy and patience during the competition. I learned how to apply many concepts like qualitative, technical and quantitative analysis to choosing stocks, he said. I also learned how to hold, because, throughout the competition, I did not make many trades in comparison to my peers, and instead centered around holding.

He also learned how hard it is to beat the stock market. Ani concluded that if possible, in pursuit of outperformance, it is best to find the sector that can beat the market and focus on that, he said. Beating the market is also difficult because sometimes there is no sector that can beat the market, and focusing on individual stocks is the way, but focusing on individual stocks requires much further and in-depth analysis.

From the archives (December 2024): Meme stocks were fueled by Roaring Kitty and Trump trades this year. What can we expect in 2025?

Anis final return was about $1.46 million on the initial $1 million. At the end of the competition, his portfolio consisted of Nvidia, Novo Nordisk, Chipotle, Advanced Micro Devices Inc. AMD, Amazon.com Inc. AMZN, GE Aerospace GE, GE Vernova Inc. GEV, Alphabet Inc. Class C GOOG, Intel Corp. INTC, Palo Alto Networks Inc. PANW and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. TSM.

Brockton High School student Henry Ani clinched the top prize in a national stock-picking competition last year. - Brockton Public Schools

Ani is participating in the competition again this year and anticipates remaining engaged in investing for the rest of his life. It will be important for me to invest throughout life, because investing not only helps people become more financially literate but also trains people in skills of risk management, educated guessing and many other skills that can be applied to many different aspects of life, he said. This year I have applied mostly the same strategy, but I also have bought index funds that track baskets of stocks around, for example, an industry or regional theme.

For this years competition, Ani is betting on Nvidia again, convinced that continued AI spending will push the stock higher. Ani said that Gill, the meme-stock talisman, doesnt come up during conversations with his fellow students about stocks or the competition. He is well aware of the Roaring Kitty story, but hes taking his own approach to the market. I feel that I am following my own path, he said.

Related: Why Roaring Kitty is a GameStop true believer

Kim Redding, the former CEO of Brookfield Investment Management, the public securities group of investment giant Brookfield Asset Management, volunteered with the Brockton students during last years competition. Redding taught the students about financial concepts, including esoteric ones like pegged exchange rates. We teach through the summer, then in the school year we have a Zoom call on the first Sunday of the month, he told MarketWatch. We bring in speakers from investment banks to talk about AI or whatever.

The Brockton students also attended trading classes at the Hughey Center for Financial Services at Bentley University in Waltham, Mass.

This year the Financial Investment Club competition has expanded to include middle-school students and has grown from Boston, Chicago, New Orleans and Los Angeles to include students from New York, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. Nearly 200 students are taking part this year, Redding told MarketWatch.

But the new competitors will have to best the students from Brockton, who are highly motivated, according to Redding. Last year they reached out to him about six times outside of lessons and Zoom calls, he said.

I have [heard] stories that they are talking [about the stock market] down the [school] hall  they are talking about it throughout the day, he said. We cant teach them everything to become a professional investor, but we can give them the seed, that spark that lights them up.

Most Read from MarketWatch
Emily Elconin / Bloomberg / Getty Images





Key Takeaways

Sunoco agreed to buy Canadian fuel distributor Parkland in a $9.1 billion cash and stock deal.

Shares of Sunoco slumped Monday, while Parkland traded higher in Toronto following the news.

Sunoco is set to report its first-quarter earnings before the bell Tuesday.







Sunoco (SUN) on Monday said it reached a deal to acquire Canadian rival Parkland in a deal worth roughly $9.1 billion.

Shares of Sunoco fell close to 6% in New York, while Parkland shares rose over 5% in Toronto following the news. Sunoco shares have gained about 6% in 2025.

Under the terms of the deal, Parkland shareholders will receive 0.295 units of SUNCorp, the new combined company, and 19.80 Canadian dollars for each Parkland share. That represents a roughly 25% premium over the seven-day volume-weighted average price of both companies as of Friday, Sunoco said. The deal is expected to close in the second half of 2025.

Sunoco said the combination would be immediately accretive and that it plans to continue investing in Parklands low-carbon fuel refinery in Burnaby, British Columbia.

Sunoco is scheduled to its first-quarter results Tuesday before the opening bell.



Read the original article on Investopedia
3G Capital, which agreed to acquire Skechers for $63 a share, was founded in 2004 by Jorge Paulo Lemann, Carlos Alberto Sicupira and Marcel Herrmann Telles. It includes in its portfolio consumer brands Kraft Heinz, Burger King, Tim Horton, and Hunter Douglas.

The deal is estimated at $9.26 billion, based on a Form 13(D) filed on Monday with the Securities and Exchange Commission listing the total outstanding Class A and Class B Common Stock shares as of May 2. The shares outstanding could change by the time the deal closes, and there are typically adjustments made to the purchase price, such as the valuation of inventory and any outstanding debt. (The deals current value reflects a nearly 30 percent premium over the stock price from Fridays close at $49.37 a share.)

Following the acquisition news, Skechers shares spiked more than 24 percent on Monday in Big Board trading, closing at $61.39.

Robert and Michael have done a phenomenal job with Skechers, said Gilbert Harrison, chairman of investment banking advisory firm Harrison Group and chairman emeritus of the investment banking firm he founded Financo Inc. Harrison noted that Skechers is run as a very entrepreneurial business, and having the team retain a stake also ensures that they remain with the company. Without the team that [Skechers] has, the business would be worth significantly less, the banker concluded.

Skechers said that its senior management team will lead that transition alongside 3G Capital. The company will continue to be led by chairman and chief executive officer Robert Greenberg , president Michael Greenberg , and the rest of the current management team. Skechers will remain headquartered in its hometown of Manhattan Beach, Calif. The deal is expected to close in the third quarter.

The blockbuster move is a reflection of the business prowess of Robert and Michael Greenberg, the father-son duo that has taken the company from family startup to global powerhouse during the past three decades. The deal  struck in the midst of U.S. President Donald Trumps dramatic global trade war  comes at a time when the footwear industry, which is heavily exposed to China and other Asian production hubs, is under intense pressure.

Skechers $9 billion go-private deal with Brazilian private-equity firm 3G Capital  the biggest shoe buyout in history  captivated market watchers around the world on Monday.

Story continues

The structure of the transaction gives existing Skechers shareholders the option of receiving $57 per share in cash and one unlisted, non-transferable equity unit in a newly-formed entity that will become the parent of Skechers when the deal closes.

TD Cowen retail analyst John Kernan described the deal as a landmark sector deal in terms of size, which he expects will close as the Skechers board has already given its approval and the Greenberg family owns 60 percent of the voting rights.

We believe this is the largest deal in softlines retail sector history, Kernan wrote in a research note on Monday. The most recent deal was Reebok at $2.5 billion, or 1.1 times sales.

Kernan also said the transaction highlights opportunistic investing in the sector during a time of uncertainty, with sector valuation multiples near five-year lows, adding that he is skeptical of another bidder stepping up due to both size and scope of the deal. Moreover, he reasoned that the uncertainty on the multi-year margin outlook due to tariffs probably creates little opposition.

Noting 3Gs playbook of boosting margins through cost-cutting and efficiencies, Kernan said the likelihood is that we will see Skechers come public again in the distant future.

Needham & Co.s Tom Nikic described the deal as very surprising, as Skechers has always been viewed as a family business, with several family members working at the company.

However, Robert Greenberg, who is 85, has been running the company he founded for 33 years, the analyst noted, adding that the decision to sell may have been accelerated by the macro environment, [such as] tariffs, consumer sentiment, China-U.S. relations, etc., as the company may have wished to navigate the challenges without being under Wall Streets scrutiny.

Nikic also doesnt forsee another buyer swooping in with a competing bid, noting both the large purchase price required and the somewhat adversarial relationship Skechers has had with their larger peers, noting that both Nike and Adidas in recent years have filed lawsuits against the company.

Looking at the companys operations, Nikic said: We believe Skechers is a great business, but it faces near-term headwinds both fundamentally and sentiment-wise. Specifically, they face significant headwinds from tariffs on important footwear.

He cited China as a problematic market, and North America retail as becoming more volatile. In addition, gross margins are no longer expanding like they were in 2023 and early-2024, the analyst said. One possible bear case scenario centers are tariffs growing worse, resulting in U.S. consumer sentiment deteriorating and Skechers international business potentially suffering due to anti-American sentiment against the trade war backdrop.

According to James Duffy at Stifel, 3G Capital will finance the deal through cash on hand and a debt financing commitment from JPMorgan.

Upon completion of the transaction, the companys common stock will no longer be listed on the New York Stock Exchange, and Skechers will become a private company.

Skechers noted that this transaction, which was unanimously approved by its board of directors, including an independent committee of independent directors, is a transformational long-term partnership opportunity for the shoe company to further evolve in both lifestyle and performance footwear.

Robert Greenberg said in a statement that this move comes as Skechers has experienced tremendous growth over the last three decades.

With a proven track-record, Skechers is entering its next chapter in partnership with the global investment firm 3G Capital, the CEO said. Given their remarkable history of facilitating the success of some of the most iconic global consumer businesses, we believe this partnership will support our talented team as they execute their expertise to meet the needs of our consumers and customers while enabling the companys long-term growth.

Alex Behring, co-founder and co-managing partner, and Daniel Schwartz, co-managing partner, of 3G Capital, added in a joint statement that they are looking forward to working with the Skechers team.

We have immense admiration for the business that this team has built, and look forward to supporting the companys next chapter, Behring and Schwartz said. Our team at 3G Capital is built to partner with companies like Skechers.

This comes as the footwear company reported net sales in the first quarter of fiscal 2025 of $2.41 billion, a 7.1 percent increase from $2.25 billion the same time last year.

But while sales were high, net earnings dipped in Q1 to $202.4 million and diluted earnings per share were $1.34, a 2.0 percent decline compared with prior year net earnings of $206.6 million and diluted earnings per share of $1.33 in Q1 2024.

Best of Footwear News

Sign up for FN's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Swiss bank UBS maintained a Buy rating on Berkshire Hathaway (BRK-A,BRK-B) after its longtime CEO, Warren Buffett, disclosed that he would step down from the role by the end of this year.

The bank kept a $606 price target on the shares.

Buffett Stock Portfolio: Top 10 Stock Picks for 2024

Krista Kennell/Shutterstock.com

No Major Changes Anticipated

Buffett was expected to relinquish the CEO position to his successor, Greg Abel, at some point, but the timing of the move was previously unknown, UBS noted.

Nonetheless, Berkshire had already begun relying less on Buffett's investing acumen, as the conglomerate has many extremely profitable businesses that are unrelated to its portfolio of stocks, the bank pointed out.

UBS expects Abel to refrain from making any significant changes to the company's operations, culture, and strategy.

Berkshire's Other Positive Attributes

UBS noted that the conglomerate has a great deal of capital. Additionally, its many businesses which operate in a multitude of fields, provide it with a great deal of information that it can use to help it make investment decisions, according to UBS.

While we acknowledge the potential of BRK-A, our conviction lies in the belief that AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns, and doing so within a shorter timeframe. There is an AI stock that went up since the beginning of 2025, while popular AI stocks lost around 25%. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than BRK-A but that trades at less than 5 times its earnings, check out our report about this cheapest AI stock.

READ NEXT: 20 Best AI Stocks To Buy Now and 30 Best Stocks to Buy Now According to Billionaires

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey
We recently published a list of Billionaire Louis Bacons 10 Stock Picks with Huge Upside Potential. In this article, we are going to take a look at where Targa Resources Corp. (NYSE:TRGP) stands against Billionaire Louis Bacons other stock picks with huge upside potential.

Louis Moore Bacon is the founder, Chairman, and principal investment manager of Moore Capital Management, a global investment management firm that provides services to institutional and high-net-worth clients through diversified hedge funds and specialized funds that focus on global fixed-income and emerging markets. It was established in March 1989 and is headquartered in New York City with offices in London and Hong Kong. He holds an MBA in Finance from Columbia Business School and a BA in American Literature from Middlebury College. Bacons investment philosophy is based on risk management and capital preservation principles. His trading strategies are focused on macroeconomic trends and fundamental analysis of the markets.

Bacon emphasizes diversification, which allows him to invest across different geographies and asset classes. He is known for his contrarian investment style and takes positions against prevailing market sentiment. Moore Capital Management is a hedge fund with 4 clients and discretionary assets under management (AUM) of $33.20 billion, as reported in the firms Form ADV dated 19 November 2024. Their last reported 13F filing for Q4 2024 included $8.70 billion in managed 13F securities and a top 10 holdings concentration of 25.53%. He believes that there are opportunities to profit from mispricing that come with volatility or fear. Louis Moore Bacon is also the Founder and Co-Chair of The Moore Charitable Foundation, which was established in 1992 to support conservation-focused nonprofits dedicated to preserving land, water, and wildlife habitats. Bacon has received several awards in this regard, including the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership (TRCP) Lifetime Conservation Achievement Award and the Audubon Medal.

Our Methodology

To compile the list of billionaire Louis Bacons 10 stock picks with huge upside potential, we sifted through Q4 2024 13F filings of Moore Global Investments from Insider Monkey. From these filings, we checked each stocks upside potential from CNN and ranked the stocks in ascending order of this upside potential. We have also added Moore Global Investments stake in each company and the hedge fund sentiment around each stock.

Note: All data was sourced on May 2.

Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletters strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 373.4% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 218 percentage points (see more details here).
This story was originally published on CFO Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily CFO Dive newsletter.

While its too soon to know exactly how tariffs will impact the commercial real estate market, some early cracks are emerging in the retail and industrial sectors, according to Whitley Collins of CBRE, the commercial real estate services company.

If you just look at the tariffs...the biggest impact is on retailers and then the knock-on effect, is in manufacturing and distribution, so retailers for sure are the ones bracing the most, said Collins, global president, advisory and transaction services, occupiers for CBRE said in an interview last week. Retail is trying to figure out, whats it going to mean for our business, so theres a lot of pausing right now on retail transactions and similarly with industrial.

In Q1, the retail real estate sector that includes malls, big box stores and power centers in the U.S. market saw its first quarterly period in which the net absorption of space turned negative since early in the pandemic in Q3 2020, according to CBREs Q1 retail report. The shift reflected a cautious start to the year as retailers reconsidered expansion plans amid economic uncertainty.

Many industrial warehouse tenants are also taking a wait-and-see approach to making industrial real estate decisions and the widespread tariffs are expected to have a significant impact on market activity, according to CBREs Q1 report on the industrial market. At the same time, the overall U.S. industrial real estate markets vacancy rate rose to 6.3%, the highest since Q2 2014, or just over a decade.

In contrast, Collins has seen only a little bit of pausing in the office market and not directly because of tariffs. For example, he said there were a couple deals in the Washington D.C. area where tenants said they were concerned about the cost of constructing new space, given that the cost of furniture, fixtures and equipment is uncertain. Contractors and furniture manufacturers were not able to lock in prices and so the deals costs could have gone up 10% to 15%, Collins said.

If you think about that, that's only a small piece of the overall transaction but its material enough that they said, ok, until we can get more clarity around the price we want to hit the pause, Collins said. It wasnt the pause were seeing in retail and industrial where, were pausing because this is going to have a dramatic effect on our business.
By Sudarshan Varadhan

SINGAPORE (Reuters) -Solar panel makers in Laos and Indonesia, mostly owned by Chinese firms, boosted their share in the U.S. market after steep tariffs hit exports from other Southeast Asian countries including Cambodia and Thailand, trade data showed.

The U.S. government finalised steep levies on imports of solar cells and modules from Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia in April, following two rounds of tariffs in June and November last year, to prevent dumping by mostly Chinese-owned factories in these countries.

However, Chinese companies have moved their production to Indonesia and Laos and boosted exports to the United States, Reuters reporting showed.

The combined share for Indonesia and Laos in the U.S. solar modules market rose to 29% in the three months after the second round of U.S. duties were imposed on neighbouring producers in late November, from less than 1% in 2023, a Reuters review of U.S. trade data showed.

Analysts and industry experts say the southeast Asian capacities owned by Chinese companies were almost exclusively set up to sidestep tariffs and supply the U.S. markets at premiums to global prices, exposing the limits of Washington's trade interventions.

Yana Hryshko, head of global solar supply chain research at consultancy Wood Mackenzie, said all solar manufacturing capacity in the four Southeast Asian countries hit with high tariffs would now likely "be shut down or reduced dramatically".

CHANGING TRADE ROUTES

Solar panel exports from Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia to the U.S. fell by 33% on an annual basis in the nine months since the first round of tariffs in June. In the same period, exports from regional neighbours Indonesia and Laos grew around eight-fold, the trade data showed.

Overall U.S. solar panel imports have fallen 26% since June, with the four countries' combined share of the market plunging

from 82% in the full year 2024 to 54% in the three months following the second round of tariffs in late November.

U.S. imports of solar cells, which can be assembled in the United States to create panels, have tripled since the first round of tariffs despite higher costs of imports from the targeted countries. However, Indonesia and Laos still ate into the market as their exports surged about 17-fold.

Solar cells accounted for roughly 28% of all U.S. solar imports since the first round of tariffs, compared with 6.5% in 2023, the data showed.

Chinese manufacturers are already revising export strategies due to concerns about tariffs on Indonesia and Laos, said Fei Chen, solar research analyst at consultancy Rystad Energy.
Cheng Xin / Getty Images





Key Takeaways

Vertex Pharmaceuticals missed first-quarter profit and revenue forecasts as costs jumped.

The biotech firm also posted a decline in sales outside the U.S. because of intellectual property rights violations in Russia.

Vertex raised the lower end of its 2025 guidance as it sees higher demand for its cystic fibrosis treatments.







Shares of Vertex Pharmaceuticals (VRTX) slumped 12% Tuesday, a day after the biotech firm reported worse-than-expected results as costs increased.

Vertex posted first-quarter adjusted earnings per share of $4.06, with revenue rising 3% year-over-year to $2.77 billion. Analysts surveyed by Visible Alpha were looking for $4.19 and $2.83 billion, respectively.

U.S. revenue grew 9% to $1.66 billion in part because of higher prices. However, outside the U.S. revenue dropped 5% to $1.11 billion because of a decline in sales in Russia, where the company said it is "experiencing violation of its intellectual property rights."

Total expenses skyrocketed nearly 40% to $2.14 billion, which Vertex blamed mostly on "continued R&D investment in support of multiple mid- and late-stage clinical development programs and increased commercial investment to support the launch of JOURNAVX," its non-opioid pain medicine. In addition, it also had a $379.0 million intangible asset impairment charge associated with its experimental diabetes treatment VX-264, which it won't be advancing for additional clinical development.

Vertex raised the low end of its full-year revenue guidance to $11.85 billion from $11.75 billion as it sees continued growth in demand for its cystic fibrosis drugs, including the recently launched Alyftrek. The company did not change its upper end outlook of $12.0 billion.

Even with todays slide, shares of Vertex Pharmaceuticals are up almost 10% in 2025.



TradingView

Read the original article on Investopedia
Lacy O'Toole/CNBC/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images

Warren Buffett has warned that the electric utility sector isn't as reliable an investment as it used to be.

The billionaire investor pinned wildfires as the core reason utility stocks faced big risks.

Shares of Hawaiian Electric, PG&E, and Edison International have plunged in recent years due to wildfires.

Warren Buffett has a warning about a corner of the stock market that's long been seen as a haven for cautious investors: utilities.

Electric utility companies have long been viewed as a defensive sector by investors because they provide essential services that people continue to use regardless of economic conditions, making their revenues relatively stable even during downturns.

But speaking at Berkshire Hathaway's annual shareholder meeting over the weekend, Buffett said that the electric utility sector wasn't as reliable as it used to be and that investors needed to adjust their expectations going forward.

Blame wildfires

Buffett said the growing risk of wildfires was the core reason investors needed to be cautious on utilities.

"The public utility business is not as good a business as it was a couple of years ago," Buffett said. "If anybody doesn't believe that, they can look at Hawaiian Electric and look at Edison in the current wildfires situation in California."

In August 2023, shares of Hawaiian Electric plunged as much as 76% as investors feared the company could be held liable for the deadly Maui fires. Shares have yet to recover any of the losses.

California's PG&E has also paid out billions of dollars after its equipment was found responsible for starting several wildfires between 2017 and 2021. The company filed for bankruptcy, and its stock price crashed as much as 95%.

More recently, shares of California-based Edison International plunged as much as 37% over fears that it could be held liable for the Palisades fire in Los Angeles at the beginning of 2025.

Berkshire Hathaway Energy's value decline

Buffett added that Berkshire Hathaway wasn't immune to those risks, highlighting that the conglomerate's Berkshire Energy utility business was declining in value.

"Berkshire Hathaway Energy is worth considerably less money than it was two years ago based on societal factors," Buffett said.

Incoming Berkshire Hathaway CEO Greg Abel, who oversees the conglomerate's energy operations, echoed the warning and highlighted the persistent risks the industry was facing.

"There are no silver bullets," Abel said. "But every day our teams across utilities are working hard to reduce that risk, recognizing the fundamental risk of the wildfires is not going away."
Berkshire Hathaway CEO Warren Buffett has made some famous investments, most of them good, some of them not so good. Daniel Zuchnik/WireImage

Warren Buffett announced he is stepping down as Berkshire Hathaway CEO after 55 years.

Buffett, known as the "Oracle of Omaha," has a knack for finding undervalued investments.

He is the fifth-richest person in the world, with a net worth of $169 billion.

Berkshire Hathaway's Warren Buffett announced on Saturday that he would step down as CEO after 55 years.

The renowned investor is known for his knack for identifying stocks that are undervalued by the market and holding them long enough to reap massive profits. This ability has earned him the nickname the "Oracle of Omaha."

Buffett is listed on the Bloomberg Billionaires Index as the fifth-richest person in the world. He has an estimated net worth of $169 billion.

Here are some of Buffett's best  and worst  investments over his career.

Best: Berkshire Hathaway's investment in Coca-Cola

A Cherry Coke bottle featuring an image of US investor Warren Buffett is seen on a shelf at a convenience store in Beijing. credit should read GREG BAKER/AFP via Getty Images

Berkshire Hathaway first invested $1.3 billion in Coca-Cola in 1988 and now owns a 9.3% stake in the $308 billion beverage giant.

This year, Coca-Cola's stock has performed well, rising about 15% and trading near record highs.

On a personal level, Buffett is known to be a Coke lover, drinking several cans a day.

On Saturday, Buffett was seated with two cans of Coca-Cola during Berkshire's annual shareholder meeting.

"At 94 years of age, I've been able to drink whatever I like to drink," Buffett said at the meeting.

Best: 2016 investment in Apple

The Berkshire Hathaway stock price on the is seen on an Apple Iphone in Warsaw, Poland. Jaap Arriens/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Buffett and Berkshire Hathaway first purchased shares of Apple in 2016. Since then, the stock has soared over 800%.

By the end of 2023, Berkshire's roughly $35 billion investment in Apple had grown to $173 billion. Buffett praised Apple CEO Tim Cook at Berkshire's annual meeting on Saturday.

"Tim Cook has made Berkshire a lot more than I have made Berkshire," Buffett told the crowd.

Berkshire slashed its position in Apple massively last year, but is still one of the tech giant's largest investors with a 2% stake.

Best: Berkshire Hathaway owns 100% of GEICO

Berkshire Hathaway purchased GEICO outright in 1996. Brad Schloss/Icon SMI/Corbis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Buffett first started purchasing shares of GEICO in 1976. In 1996, Berkshire bought the company's remaining shares to own the insurance giant outright.

"Full employment, boomtime profits and record dividend payments do not set the stage for depressed security prices," Buffett wrote at the time.

In a 2016 annual letter to shareholders, Buffett said he expects GEICO to pass State Farm for the top spot in auto insurance by his 100th birthday.

"On August 30, 2030  my 100th birthday  I plan to announce that GEICO has taken over the top spot. Mark your calender," he said.
(Reuters) -Alphabet's (GOOG) self-driving unit Waymo said on Monday that it plans to build Jaguar I-PACE and Zeekr vehicles with its autonomous technology at a new plant in Arizona as soon as this year, with Canadian auto parts supplier partner Magna International.

Waymo, which started as a small self-driving project within Google in 2009, has expanded slowly but steadily in a tricky autonomous vehicle market that has witnessed several casualties due to soaring investment, tight regulatory requirements and tough technological hurdles.

The Mesa, Arizona, factory is a multi-million dollar investment and has created hundreds of jobs, Waymo said in a statement, adding that this is a step towards scaling Waymo One  the company's fully autonomous ride-hailing service.

FILE PHOTO: The Waymo logo is displayed during the company's unveil of a self-driving Chrysler Pacifica minivan during the North American International Auto Show in Detroit

Waymo One is providing more than 250,000 paid passenger trips each week in San Francisco, Phoenix, Los Angeles and Austin after more than 4 million paid trips in 2024. It plans to add Atlanta and Miami and then Washington, D.C., by 2026.

The company plans to build over 2,000 more fully autonomous Jaguar I-PACE vehicles through next year and integrate Waymo's technology on new vehicle platforms, starting with Zeekr RT this year, the statement said.

"The Waymo Driver integration plant in Mesa is the epicenter of our future growth plans," said Ryan McNamara, vice president of operations at Waymo.

(Reporting by Kanjyik Ghosh in Bengaluru; Editing by Alan Barona)
We recently published a list of 11 Best Performing Large Cap Stocks So Far in 2025. In this article, we are going to take a look at where Wheaton Precious Metals Corp. (NYSE:WPM) stands against other best performing large cap stocks so far in 2025.

The stock market had a chaotic start to the first quarter of 2025. The uncertain tariff policy, growing fears of a recession, and inflation sent the stock market to the worst quarterly performance since the 2022 bear market. On March 31, ClearBridge Investment released its commentary on the market performance. Portfolio Managers Erica Furfaro and Margaret Vitrano highlighted that the S&P 500 index declined 4.27%, whereas the growth-heavy NASDAQ and Russell 1000 Growth Index fell 10.42% and 9.97%, respectively.

Elaborating more on the quarterly market performance, the portfolio managers noted that the Russell Growth Index underperformed the Russell Value Index by more than 1,200 basis points indicating that while large-cap stocks were impacted, the growth sector took the major hit. Tariffs were only one of the headwinds affecting the performance and the overall backdrop also includes the launch of Chinese LLM DeepSeek which questioned the AI capital expenditure of various large and mega-cap stocks. This capital expenditure bubble infected the performance of other Magnificent Seven to an extent that only one of the Mag Seven companies could outperform the Russell 1000 Index.

Erica Furfaro and Margaret Vitrano noted that their Large Cap Growth ESG strategy performed better than the benchmark amidst all the uncertainty. Their strategy takes the Russell Growth Index as a benchmark. The managers noted that the strategy revolved around being underweight for the Mag Seven and the IT sector. They also highlighted that balancing the portfolio with strong stocks across IT, communication, and financial services also played a pivotal role in generating more relative returns.

The investment fund also noted moving towards a moving to the middle approach, which refers to adjusting their portfolio to be less concentrated in any single sector and more balanced across different types of growth companies. Clearbridge has reduced its overweight position in healthcare and increased exposure to the IT sector, which was previously underweight. The fund believes this recalibration positions the portfolio for an economic slowdown. Lastly, Erica Furfaro and Margaret Vitrano noted that the first quarter witnessed the earnings growth broaden away from the Mag Seven and other large-cap stocks outside the big tech names delivered better earnings. They anticipate that, unless there is a recession, earnings growth from industrial and healthcare companies will begin to catch up with the technology sector in 2025.
(Reuters) -Williams Companies said on Monday CEO Alan Armstrong will step down after more than 14 years at the helm of the U.S. pipeline operator.

Armstrong, who joined Williams nearly 40 years ago, would be succeeded by insider Chad Zamarin, effective July 1. Zamarin, who joined the company in 2017, is currently the executive vice president of corporate strategic development.

Williams on Monday also beat quarterly earnings estimates and raised its annual profit forecast, as it banked on rising demand for natural gas, driven by a surge in electricity consumption by homes, businesses, crypto-mining, and an artificial intelligence-led boom in data centers.

"Williams is well positioned to benefit from the coming wave of natural gas demand from the power generation market and LNG exports, while continuing to deliver on traditional market needs," Armstrong said.

The firm raised its 2025 adjusted core profit to be between $7.5 billion and $7.9 billion compared to its prior outlook range of $7.45 billion to $7.85 billion.

Its first-quarter results were boosted by higher service revenues from expansion projects and acquisitions.

In January, the U.S. energy regulator reinstated the certificate for Williams' Transcontinental gas pipeline, allowing it to go ahead with expansion of the project, after a U.S. court voided the initial approval in 2023.

Total revenue rose nearly 10% to $3.05 billion during the quarter ended March 31, while service revenues climbed to $2 billion from $1.91 billion a year ago.

At Transco, average daily transportation volumes rose to 15.9 million dekatherms (MMdth) of natural gas per day in the first quarter from 14.6 MMdth per day of natural gas a year ago.

The company posted an adjusted profit of 60 cents per share for the quarter ended March 31, compared with average analysts' estimate of 56 cents per share, according to data compiled by LSEG.

(Reporting by Katha Kalia and Vallari Srivastava in Bengaluru; Editing by Leroy Leo)
In March 2024, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) agreed to a $418 million settlement to resolve multiple lawsuits with sellers who said the organization artificially inflated selling fees  also known as commissions. Later in 2025, new rules will take effect and end long-standing rules about how real estate agent commissions are offered and disclosed.

Whether you're planning to buy, sell, or have previously closed on a home, here's what you need to know about the NAR settlement  and what it could mean for your wallet.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

In this article:

What is the NAR settlement?

In 2019, some home sellers in Missouri filed a class-action lawsuit against the National Association of Realtors, claiming antitrust violations and alleging that its practices inflated real estate agent commissions. In October 2023, a jury sided with the Missouri home sellers, awarding a $1.78 billion verdict against the powerful trade group representing about 1.5 million real estate professionals.

To settle this lawsuit (and a few others), the NAR agreed to pay $418 million to people who have sold homes in recent years. The group also agreed to two updates to the commission rules:

Removal of buyers agent commissions from MLS listings. When real estate agents list homes on the Multiple Listing Services (MLS) databases, they cant post information about the buyers agent commission anymore.

Formal buyer-agent agreements. Buyers now must have written agreements with their agents that outline services and compensation.

The NAR denied any wrongdoing in settling the lawsuits. However, a federal court signed off on the agreement, and the new rules went into effect on August 17, 2024.

What the NAR settlement means for sellers

Historically, sellers paid all commissions, which could take a 5% to 6% chunk out of their sales proceeds. Under the new NAR settlement, buyers have new rules for advertising commissions and can take two different approaches to paying commissions on their sale.

Advertising commissions

Previously, agent commissions were listed publicly on all listings advertised through the MLS. Under the new rules, buyers can no longer publicize those commissions.

The new rule is designed to prevent buyers' agents from steering buyers toward homes offering the highest commissions. Now, buyers' agents need to negotiate those commissions directly with the seller and their agent  which could be paid by either the buyer or the seller.

Seller-paid commissions for the buyers and sellers agents

If sellers choose, they can keep things as theyve always been and foot the bill for all sales commissions. The benefit? Sellers incentivize buyers to choose their home over houses with sellers who arent offering to pay the buyers agent commission, thereby saving buyers some cash on the transaction. Another upside? Sellers could save even if they do decide to pay all commissions.

If a seller received two comparable offers, the seller may choose the offer that pays less to the buyers agent, said Scott Jensen, a financial advisor with wealth management firm Savvy Advisors, via email. This is something Jensen has seen firsthand.

Were selling a house right now and our Realtor negotiated down the buyers commission, saving us thousands of dollars on the transaction, Jensen said.

The seller can pay only the sellers agent commission

If youre selling in a highly competitive buyers market, you may not need to foot the bill for all the commissions. Instead, you could opt to only pay commission to your sellers agent and make the buyers agent commission the buyers responsibility.

Is this a risk? Perhaps. You and your agent will need to read the current market trends in your area to see if this is a feasible path to pursue. In markets where homes  especially entry-level homes for first-time buyers  often receive multiple offers, it might work. It could also be effective for sellers in the luxury home market, since buyers tend to have more disposable cash.

The risk may be greater for those selling entry-level homes since those buyers tend to opt for low-cost, low-down-payment mortgages like FHA loans or VA loans. Having to pay buyers agent commissions could mean they cant roll those costs into their mortgage if they push the sales price out of the lenders approved loan-to-value (LTV) ratio.

Things for sellers to think about under the new rules

Jensen said that the new NAR rules give sellers a lot to think about. He offers three tips for sellers to consider, which can also be smart considerations for buyers.

Talk about commissions up front. Commissions are one of the largest fees youll pay on a real estate transaction, and transparency can help you compare agents, services, and what youre willing to pay to get the deal you want.

Consider different agent fee structures. Jensen said its worth considering whether a traditional commissioned agent or a flat-fee agent makes the most sense.

Look beyond the fees. Jensen emphasized that commission and fee structures arent the only thing to consider when choosing an agent. Finding one you enjoy working with who has a lot of experience in your home type and the local market is just as important as the agents compensation.

Dig deeper: Selling your house  How to prepare and make the sale

This embedded content is not available in your region.

What the NAR settlement means for buyers

The new NAR settlement rules usher in a new era for home buyers  one that might be identical to the ways things have always been done or another that could see buyers pay more at the closing table. The real win, however, is transparency, said Sara Linton, a real estate broker at Chicago-based Baird & Warner, in an email interview.

The increased commission transparency gives buyers and sellers more control and clarity about commissions and costs, which is a win, said Linton.

Previously, buyers may have had agents who only showed them properties advertising the highest buyers agent commissions. This left doubts as to whether they were seeing the best homes for their needs or the best homes for their agents wallet. The new rules mean buyers experience transaction transparency in two key ways.

Formal buyer-agent agreements

Before the NAR settlement, buyers and their agents typically had a handshake agreement: I show you houses, I get paid when you buy, and you dont pay me a dime. The new rules mean that buyers and their agents must have a formal written agreement that outlines fees and services, giving buyers a clear scope of what to expect when working together.

For example, buyers (like sellers) can choose to work with a flat-fee agent  one who charges a set fee regardless of the transaction value  or an agent willing to negotiate on their commission to close the deal.

Potentially less commission-based steering

With buyers agent commissions removed from the MLS, buyers can have increased confidence that their agents arent selecting potential properties based on commission alone. Yet Linton cautioned buyers against thinking commissions are now out of the real estate equation.

The settlement removed advertising commissions on the MLS. It did not remove commissions in the sales process, she said.

Now, a buyers agent will have to speak directly with a sellers agent to get the terms of sale and how the seller wants to approach commissions. From there, buyers and agents can devise a strategy together based on whos paying the buyers agent commission.

Read more: The best mortgage lenders for first-time home buyers

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Pros and cons of the Realtor commission changes

Pros

Increased industry professionalism. Linton notes that the NAR settlement rules help buyers and sellers understand that they should interview multiple agents and openly discuss commissions.

Increased flexibility. With all parties able to negotiate commissions, buyers and sellers may be more satisfied with transaction costs.

Decreased steering perceptions. Both buyers and sellers now have more confidence that commissions are less of a factor in whether a home is shown.

Cons

Confusion about buyer commissions. Linton said that many buyers mistakenly think they now have to pay their agents commission out of pocket. This could lead to buyers delaying purchase plans because they think they need to save money to cover these costs, which likely isnt true. The reality is, many sellers are still covering full buyers agent commissions, even in competitive markets, she said.

Buyers could try to avoid paying commissions. Linton recently sold a condo where two prospective buyers wanted to make offers without agent representation, leading to unsuccessful offers in both cases. Home buyers may risk losing out on a house they love because they want to save cash. Linton said that the seller in this case covered all commissions, meaning these two buyers could have had an agent involved at no additional cost.

To balance out the pros and cons, Linton offers this thought for all parties in a real estate transaction: Most sellers recognize the value of working with well-represented buyers, especially regarding inspections, financing, and closing. The difference now is that sellers are no longer advertising commissions, but theyre still offering payment.

Learn more: How seller concessions can help home buyers negotiate better

NAR settlement implications for recent sellers

If you sold a home in the past several years (up to 11 years in some areas), you may be eligible to recoup some cash from the NAR class action lawsuit.

Eligibility dates depend on where your home was located. The details are vast, and your best bet is to visit the official website for the lawsuit, which has documentation that notes geographies and eligibility dates (see page 2). If your location isnt noted specifically, you may still be eligible to file a claim if you sold a home between Oct. 31, 2019, and Aug. 17, 2024.

You can file a claim by visiting the official NAR settlement claims website or via mail at:

Burnett et al. v. The National Association of Realtors et al.

c/o JND Legal Administration

PO Box 91479

Seattle, WA 98111

Even if you file, however, you shouldnt expect the big bucks to start flowing.

As is the nature of class action lawsuits, the members of the original class get paid first  after attorneys' fees are deducted. Whatevers left over goes to sellers who file claims. Linton puts her seller claim estimate at around $50. Other estimates put payouts at around $13 per person. Yikes.

Realtor commission changes FAQs

Whats an NAR settlement?

The NAR settlement was an agreement in 2024 by the National Association of Realtors to pay $418 million to settle multiple lawsuits that said it conspired to keep commissions artificially high. As a result, new rules have gone into effect that dictate how sellers advertise commissions on a property, how buyers negotiate with their agents, and how previous home sellers bound by the lawsuit are compensated for damages.

What are the new NAR rules for commissions?

The new rules for NAR commissions state that home sellers can no longer advertise buyers' agent commissions on listings posted on the MLS. Buyers must now negotiate services and commissions with their agent through a written agreement before shopping for a home with a clear outline of services and compensation. These rules are designed to increase transparency, give buyers and sellers more control over costs, and encourage competitive pricing.

For most sellers, the eligible date range for the NAR real estate settlement is between late October 2019 and mid-August 2024. There are additional qualifying criteria, including the brokerage you used and where your home was located, that could extend the eligible date range and determine whether you qualify to make a claim.

Laura Grace Tarpley edited this article.
The town of Palmer Lake has released its full set of reports on the potential impact of a Buc-ees, but more questions remain on whether the small towns budget and water supply are up to the task of supporting the 74,000-square-foot proposed travel center.

We dont have enough information, said town board of trustees member Shana Ball at a workshop on the independently-commissioned water and fiscal reports this week.

The two reports are preceded by a traffic report released in February that found minimal impacts from the travel center given planned improvements to the roadway. Recommendations from the two new reports are less clear, as both depend heavily on what agreements the town would be able to make with Buc-ees developers over infrastructure costs and sales tax rebates.

A decision on the legal eligibility of the developer's request to annex into the town is scheduled for a special meeting on May 29, while an approval or denial decision has not been scheduled.

Fiscal impact report

According to the report compiled by Economic & Planning Systems Inc, the Palmer Lake Buc-ees would generate about $31.8 million in revenue minus gas sales in 2027, its first full year of operation, based on comparable locations. The figure corresponds to about $955,000 in revenue for the town, a 30% increase in its yearly sales tax take.

Construction costs would also net the town about $379,000 in use tax over two years.

Plus property tax and other operating revenue increases, the town may profit on the endeavor, consultant Dan Guimond said. The town does have significant costs to either bring to the developers or shoulder itself, however.

Its up really to the board (of trustees), he said at the workshop.

Among them are capital investments to increase Palmer Lakes water and service capacity, including millions for a new well and connection to the water system. The report assumes based on input from the town that the Police Department would need to buy a new patrol car and hire two new officers.

The Fire Department, already understaffed, according to chief John Vincent, would need to hire six new fire/EMT staff to man a new fire truck and maintain numbers for 24-hour shifts.

Vincent said call volume in Johnstown, where the first Colorado Buc-ees opened last year, went up by 5% to 7% in an area with existing commercial development. The opening saw a spike in call volume before tapering off, he heard.

Palmer Lake Mayor Glant Havenar said she did not think the report should have attributed infrastructure and service costs to the town, pending negotiations with developers.

Sign up for free: Gazette Business Receive a weekly roundup of business news around El Paso County. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Featured Local Savings

My problem with the report is it doesn't let Buc-ee's know that developments pay their own way, she said.

According to the report, Buc-ees has historically requested and received financial concessions from municipalities, however. The company negotiated an average 1.1% sales tax rebate among 12 centers built between 2016 and 2024. If the same holds true with Palmer Lake, the overall revenue numbers for the town could be lower.

Water impact report

According to a report compiled by GMS Inc. Consulting Engineers, the Buc-ees site would mark a significant increase in water consumption for Palmer Lake, which draws its supply from wells and surface sources.

The report estimates water usage based on numbers at an existing Texas store and the partial year numbers of the Johnstown location, according to GMS consultant engineer Mark Morton. At an average day demand of 37,300 gallons, the store is estimated to increase overall water demand by 19%.

The connection of Palmer Lakes water supply to the property along 1.5 miles of County Line Road would also open the possibility for other development, the report noted. Those connections could increase demand by an additional 11%.

To meet the increase, Morton said the town would need to build another well, on top of its existing plans to build a new redundancy well based on a 2022 water engineering report. The town currently has two in service.

The second well that were talking about being recommended, is what Ill call the Buc-ees well, thats the additional capacity well, said Morton.

The combined well-drilling and infrastructure costs to connect Buc-ees came out to about $10.4 million, according to the report. The financial responsibility of the project has not been officially determined.

One commenter at the workshop was concerned about the towns long-term water access if the project goes ahead. The report said that the underground aquifers that supply the town are nonrenewable and are experiencing annual drawdown.

You cant have both long term, said Roy Martinez.

Morton said that decreasing water usage through landscaping decisions was absolutely a consideration we should discuss with Buc-ees. He said Palmer Lake should look for a renewable water source as the Front Range aquifers deplete over time.

Trustee Tim Caves said he thought a Buc-ees deal might bring the town closer financially to joining a renewable water infrastructure project.

You know what it takes to be a part of that? Money, he said.
Colorado's second-highest court ruled last week that prosecutors may introduce evidence at trial of a defendant's past abuse of a witness if it will help jurors understand why the witness may have originally lied to protect the defendant.
A federal judge on Tuesday extended her order barring the government from removing non-citizens accused of being "alien enemies" from Colorado, concluding the legal authority invoked by the Trump administration is likely unlawful.
In a year full of tribulations, Colorado lawmakers on Wednesday wrapped up their work, having adopted a $44 billion budget and tackled major policy proposals that included guns, immigration and union dues.
Colorado Representative Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon, says thank you in sign language as she is reelected speaker of the house on the first day of the 2025 legislative session at the State Capitol on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025. (Stephen Swofford, Denver Gazette)
The Colorado-based federal appeals court on Friday permitted construction to continue temporarily on Denver Water's massive infrastructure project in Boulder County while a trial judge forges ahead with a hearing on the matter.
David is an award-winning Senior Investigative Reporter at The Gazette and has worked in Colorado for more than two decades. He has been a journalist since 1982 and has also worked in New York, St. Louis, and Detroit.
A federal judge on Tuesday extended her order barring the government from removing non-citizens accused of being "alien enemies" from Colorado, concluding the authority invoked by the Trump administration is likely unlawful.

Two weeks ago, U.S. District Court Judge Charlotte N. Sweeney issued a temporary restraining order in a case brought by two detained Venezuelan men on behalf of themselves and all others subject to President Donald Trump's proclamation invoking the Alien Enemies Act of 1798. In the March 14 proclamation, Trump initiated a process to summarily remove non-citizens, over the age of 14, accused of being members of the Tren de Aragua gang.

While her 14-day order was in effect, attorneys for the detainees and for the government argued whether Sweeney should grant a longer-term preliminary injunction while the dispute over the legality of Trump's proclamation unfolds. Relying largely on her reasoning and conclusions from earlier, Sweeney, an appointee of Joe Biden, once again found the petitioners would likely succeed.

"Petitioners have now adduced evidence demonstrating the harm they and class members face should they be deported under the Proclamation," she wrote in the May 6 order. "For example, that detention conditions in El Salvadors Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT), create a tremendous risk of extreme physical harm."

Consequently, she barred the government from "detaining, transferring, or removing" people from Colorado who are subject to Trump's proclamation, while leaving deportations under the routine immigration process unaffected.

The U.S. Attorney's Office for Colorado declined to comment.

The court has again affirmed what we have always known to be true: Deporting and disappearing people without notice or due process is cruel, unconscionable and unlawful, said Tim Macdonald, ACLU of Colorado legal director, who is litigating the case. The federal government cannot misuse the Alien Enemies Act, a two-centuries-old law that was passed in 1798 to provide narrow wartime powers and has only been used three times in our countrys history. No one, including the federal government, is above the law."

The Colorado litigation is one of several similar cases currently moving forward. Last week, U.S. District Court Judge Fernando Rodriguez Jr., a first-term Trump appointee in the Southern District of Texas, became the first to permanently block the government from using the Alien Enemies Act to remove Venezuelan citizens from that jurisdiction.

The two named petitioners in the Colorado case, D.B.U. and R.M.M., alleged they are detained Venezuelan nationals who have incorrectly been labeled as members of TdA. One of the men alleged he, in fact, "lives in fear of the gang" because the group killed two of his family members.

They filed under a legal tool known as "habeas corpus," which challenges a person's convictions or confinement as unlawful. The Supreme Court decided by 5-4 last month that a habeas action in the place of detention was the required approach.

The U.S. Department of Justice argued that Sweeney should reject the request for a preliminary injunction on multiple grounds. First, the named petitioners were not "currently subject to the Proclamation," so they could not represent the class of people potentially affected by it.

Featured Local Savings

Second, the government maintained the designation of suspected TdA members as "alien enemies" is "the President's call alone; the federal courts have no role to play."

"Here, there is no question that TdA members, which are aligned with (the) Nicolas Maduro regime, have entered into the United States with nefarious goals: trafficking in substances and people, committing violent crimes, subverting public safety, and conducting its business with interests antithetical to those of the United States," the Justice Department wrote.

Attorneys for the petitioners sought to cast doubt on those assertions. They noted the government has only committed to giving alleged "alien enemies" 12 hours' notice of their removals  24 hours if they intend to file a habeas petition  and each of the named petitioners has been accused of being a TdA member in their parallel immigration proceedings. Meanwhile, the U.S. Supreme Court has affirmed that courts can adjudicate the executive branch's application of the Alien Enemies Act.

The attorneys also attached multiple declarations from experts familiar with TdA, who attested that Trump's assertions about TdA's scope, characteristics and entanglement with the Venezuelan government were inaccurate.

"The profile of suspected TdA crimes in the United States do not indicate a systemic criminal enterprise. Rather, the vast majority of arrests of suspected TdA members in the United States have been for crimes like shoplifting and cell phone robbery  crimes commonly handled by police departments," wrote Rebecca Hanson, a professor at the University of Florida.

In Colorado, local authorities alleged that gang members were involved in an Aurora home invasion and kidnapping last year. A property management company also said TdA "took over" apartment buildings.

In her decision, Sweeney rebuked the notion that she had no authority to review the executive branch's invocation of the Alien Enemies Act.

"This sentence staggers. It is wrong as a matter of law and attempts to read an entire provision out of the Constitution," she wrote. "Federal courts and judicial review are a feature  not a defect  of this Nations constitutional structure."

To the argument that Sweeney could not assess whether the proclamation properly adhered to the Alien Enemies Act, she responded in one word: "Nonsense."

As for whether Trump's proclamation could properly rely upon the 18th Century wartime law, Sweeney determined the text of the law  referring to "any invasion or predatory incursion" by "any foreign nation or government"  did not encompass TdA. In doing so, she relied on the reasoning of Rodriguez, the Texas judge who analyzed the issue previously.

In a separate order, Sweeney also green-lit the habeas case to proceed as a class action on behalf of all detained non-citizens in Colorado who are encompassed by Trump's proclamation. She acknowledged the government considers neither of the named petitioners "alien enemies," but simultaneously, it has "suggested in immigration proceedings that D.B.U. has a gang affiliation, and R.M.M. is an associate or active TdA member," she wrote.

The case is D.B.U. et al. v. Trump et al.
A 27-year-old man who worked as a babysitter in Colorado Springs was arrested on suspicion of sexually assaulting a child, according to the arrest affidavit obtained by The Gazette.

Vincent Smith of Westminster was booked into the El Paso County jail May 1 and is facing a felony charge for sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust.

He worked as a babysitter in Colorado Springs and previously in Maryland, according to court records. He was charged with sexual abuse on a minor in Baltimore County in 2013, Frederick County in 2019 and Montgomery County in 2019.

In an interview in July 2024, detectives learned Smith took a 12-year-old child he was babysitting to a Colorado Springs hotel in October 2023. He told the boy to be quiet and hold still, and he would win a prize. Smith inappropriately tickled the boy in the hotel over his underwear before taking him home.

Featured Local Savings

The woman who hired Smith told police she found his resume on a Colorado Springs babysitting page two years prior. She hired him to watch her two children while she was at work. She was unaware Smith was taking her child to a hotel and she initiated a report.

She said she confronted Smith by phone about the allegations. He denied them and refused to meet with her.

Smith is being held on a $150,000 bond with a court appearance scheduled May 12.

Detectives with the Police Department ask the public to call 719-634-7867 or 719-382-4200 to remain anonymous with any information or additional victims.
DENVER  The Fort Carson staff sergeant who was at a Colorado Springs illegal nightclub during a large-scale federal raid April 27 and arrested days later on suspicion of cocaine distribution will proceed to trial, a judge ruled Tuesday.

Juan Gabriel Orona-Rodriguez, 27, is facing one federal count each of distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Court records show that Orona-Rodriguez's alleged offenses started no later than Sept. 16, 2024, and continued to at least April 9.

Court records also show Orona-Rodriguez worked as armed security at the illegal Colorado Springs nightclub  identified as Warike. The early morning raid resulted in 105 arrests, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Officials said 300 law enforcement agents from multiple agencies participated in the raid, including Colorado Springs police, and the El Paso and Douglas County sheriffs offices.

Orona-Rodriguez was one of 17 soldiers at the nightclub  among around 200 partygoers, officials said. He previously received counseling from his commanding officer at Fort Carson to discontinue his work through the company Immortal Security, where he was alleged to be in a leadership position, according to his arrest affidavit.

Similar to his initial appearance May 1, Orona-Rodriguez appeared calm as he sat in federal court Tuesday morning awaiting his preliminary hearing.

Prosecutor Peter McNeilly called FBI special agent Ethan Doherty as the only witness . Doherty testified he assisted in the April 22 prearranged undercover $450 purchase of 0.5 of an ounce of cocaine sold to a previous buyer of Orona-Rodriguez.

Doherty testified the buyer was contacted by the FBI to assist in the undercover sale, but he was unsure if that person was offered protection from prosecution for their cooperation.

Magistrate Judge Susan Prose asked Doherty to elaborate on what amount of illicit drugs rises to the level of distribution intent. Doherty testified while 0.5 of an ounce is on the "lower end," it does exceed the amount law enforcement outlines for personal use. It was noted the amount overall Orona-Rodriguez is accused of possessing and distributing was lower than what a federal courthouse typically sees in cases.

In addition to assisting with the undercover sale, Doherty testified he assisted in drafting the initial arrest plan for Orona-Rodriguez, who was taken into custody April 30 on at Fort Carson. He said that Orona-Rodriguez did not resist arrest and cooperated during a subsequent interview with law enforcement.

Featured Local Savings

During cross-examination, Doherty testified he was not the lead investigator on the case and had not personally examined the phone records included in the initial complaint and affidavit. His testimony Tuesday was based on his review of records completed by another federal agent.

Orona-Rodriguez's defense attorney Stephanie Snyder asked Doherty about search warrants executed on the house, vehicle and place of employment for the defendant. Doherty testified he did not know if any of the discussed drug distribution sales ever came to fruition," or if anything of "evidentiary value" was recovered during searches warrants. No evidence about financial records connected to the case was presented Tuesday.

While no charges have been filed against Orona-Rodriguez for allegedly working as armed security at the illegal Colorado Springs nightclub, his relationship with the owner was brought up in the courtroom Tuesday.

Virginia Thorne, who was allegedly responsible for running the raided nightclub after leasing from property owner Mike Moon, is the mother-in-law to Orona-Rodriguez. She is known to run other nightclubs, Doherty testified, based on interviews completed shortly after the soldier's arrest.

As of Tuesday afternoon, no charges have been filed against Thorne, according to court records. She previously spoke with Gazette reporters, but refused to talk on the record.

At the conclusion of preliminary hearing, Prose ruled that prosecutors had enough substantial evidence to proceed toward a jury trial.

Orona-Rodriguez's preliminary hearing preceded a detention hearing at which his defense argued for his release on condition  citing his lack of criminal record and the eight years he's spent in the military. Snyder argued Orona-Rodriguez should be released back to his home, which was searched and cleared, so he can continue to serve in his stepfather role for two young children with his wife under pre-trial supervision.

McNeilly agreed the circumstances Snyder laid out would typically be ideal for release, but argued Orona-Rodriguez and his wife's alleged involvement with the illegal Warike nightclub pose a public safety threat. Orona-Rodriguez's wife allegedly worked at the club, searching people for weapons before entry.

No decision about a potential release was made Tuesday. Orona-Rodriguez was transferred back to the Jefferson County jail, where he remains on a no-bond hold. His next appearance in federal court to continue his detention hearing is scheduled May 15.
Update: The Canon City Police Department reported Wednesday afternoon that James Melies has been found safe.

The Colorado Bureau of Investigation is asking for the community's help in finding a 67-year-old Canon City man who went missing around 8 p.m. Monday.

Authorities said James Melies was last seen on foot near the 700 block of Royal Gorge Boulevard in Canon City.

Melies has a cognitive impairment which may affect his memory or render him confused.

He is about 5-foot-9 and weighs 170 pounds. He has grey hair and blue eyes and was wearing a gray "Rocky Mountain" wind breaker, jeans, and a Colorado hat.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Canon City Police Department at 719-276-5600.
Colorado Springs only resettlement agency for refugees and asylum-seekers has been forced to lay off employees and adopt an emergency-management protocol since Jan. 20, when the newly inaugurated President Donald Trump suspended federal funding for such agencies, according to Floyd Preston, director of the local office of Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains.

Its been extremely difficult, he said Tuesday.

An executive order from Trump not only stopped nationwide processing of incoming refugees and asylum-seekers but also placed on hold resettlement dollars from flowing to nonprofits that provide the services for vetted newcomers.

The money we use for refugees for housing and cash assistance all were halted, said Preston, whos been leading the Colorado Springs office for 19 years.

Agencies were supposed to hear in 90 days, which would have been April 20, whether funding would be resumed, decreased or eliminated. But there's been no word yet.

As it stands now, it remains suspended nationwide, Preston said.

The budget for Lutheran Family Services is 85% to 90% federally funded, he said, with the remainder coming from private individual donors, churches and other organizations.

In February and March, 22 employees in Prestons office were reduced to 15.

These funds also power our employment, if you dont have the employees, you cant deliver the services the way they need to be, he said.

Up to 45 refugees from Afghanistan, Cuba, Haiti, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Central African Republic and Ukraine that were accepted in November and arrived in Colorado Springs in December and January have been most affected by the loss of funding, Preston said.

There's no money for the usual rental assistance, however, private funds, donations from partners and state funding we receive ensured those individuals and families were housed, and we have no homeless refugees at this time.

The local office is authorized to receive 250 refugees each year but serves almost 1,000 individuals annually since clients have varying status and levels of service, Preston said.

Right now, our doors are still open and were still able to help people who are already here find jobs, facilitate food stamps, Temporary Aid to Needy Families, Medicaid, English as a Second Language classes and also connect them to organizations within the community that help them with things that we cannot.

Refugee clients have been vetted through the U.S. Department of State, have passed numerous screenings and are documented to legally be in America, Preston said.

Asylees also have to go through a process on their own of obtaining legal and immigrant help to verify they are eligible for asylum, he said. Once they get that, were able to help them. If they dont have the proper documentation, we cant help.

In his first term as President, Trump enacted a travel ban, then limited refugees to 50,000 a year, but did not entirely suspend the program.

Coming from a disaster-response background, Preston said he enacted measures that involved rallying a host of supporters.

Instead of crying over spilled milk, I brought our partners together and explained we need your help: clothing, gift cards, finances, jobs, cultural mentor teams and volunteers, he said. They came through in this time of crisis with donations and resources.

Preston credits a willingness of backers to transcend religious lines and mobilize for a united cause.

Numerous denominations that believe in our work  Lutherans, Anglicans, Islamic centers, Catholics, Evangelicals, the Calvaries, non-denominational  have put differences aside for the sake of a common goal to welcome the stranger among us.

While it is unknown whether funding will be restored, Susan Bolduc, a member of First Lutheran Church, which provides an office for Prestons organization, thinks its the nations duty to care for such immigrants.

Weve been doing this since World War II, she said. Our government brought in the most vulnerable people in the world whove been through trauma, and now were going to tell them to go back? They are refugees  where are they going to go back to?

Financial donations and employers willing to hire clients in small manufacturing, housekeeping, janitorial, landscaping and minor construction jobs are needed.

A lot are non-English speakers, so we want to highlight their skills versus the language deficiency, Preston said.

To contribute, email Britton Varn, volunteer and engagement coordinator, at britton.varn@lfsrm.org, or call her at (719) 922-4580.
Update: The Colorado Springs Police Department reported Tuesday afternoon that Genelli Pretty Bear has been found safe.

The Colorado Bureau of Investigation is asking for the community's help in finding a 68-year-old Colorado Springs woman who went missing April 14.

Authorities said Genelli Pretty Bear was last seen in the Colorado Springs area, but she may be traveling to Ohio.

Bear is an Indigenous woman who is about 5-foot-6 and weighs 180 pounds. She has brown hair and brown eyes and is known to dress modestly.

Anyone with information is asked to call Colorado Springs police at 719-444-7000.
This innovation team in China's Qingdao sets 12 world records in automated port operations

16:33, May 06, 2025 By Li Rui ( People's Daily

During the early stages of the construction of Qingdao Port's automated terminal, Zhang Liangang (third from the left) leads the team in conducting site inspections. (Photo provided by Shandong Port Group)

At a fully automated container terminal of Qingdao Port operated by Shandong Port Group in Qingdao, east China's Shandong province, the average operational efficiency of a single quay crane has once again broken the world record, reaching 60.9 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) per hour.

This marks the twelfth time that Qingdao Port's "Liangang Innovation Team" has set a new world record in automated container terminal operations.

While China accounted for seven of the world's top ten container ports in 2013, there was a notable shortcoming -- not a single automated terminal among them.

To address this, Qingdao Port launched its automated terminal project the same year. Zhang Liangang, who had led multiple scientific and technological projects, took the lead in forming the "Liangang Innovation Team," shouldering the responsibility of building China's first automated container terminal.

Zhang recalled their early struggles: foreign terminal operators barred them from even getting off cars to take a single photograph, which makes studying abroad meaningless. As for purchasing the technology, the prices demanded were sky-high.

He was determined that core technologies could neither be bought nor begged for, self-reliance was the only path.

When the project began, Zhang was still recovering from lung cancer surgery. "Even giving it everything we have might not guarantee success. But half-hearted efforts inevitably guarantee failure," he said. Under his leadership, the team worked around the clock, pushing themselves to the limit.

On May 11, 2017, the Qingdao Port automated container terminal officially commenced operations. As thousands of containers started moving at a command, everyone's heartbeat quickened.

Data flashed across the screen: "Single crane efficiency: 26.1 TEUs per hour" - setting a new world record for the first commercial operation at an automated container terminal. At that moment, many team members were moved to tears.

Several container ships are loading and unloading cargo at the fully automated terminal of Qingdao Port, east China's Shandong province, March 18. (Photo by Zhang Jingang/People's Daily Online)

During the construction of the second phase, the team set a higher goal: surpassing the achievements of the Phase I and establish global leadership. They implemented bold innovations such as hydrogen-powered equipment and 5G technology.

For the third phase, they launched the fully domestically developed Automated Terminal Operating System (A-TOS), achieving full autonomy in both core hardware and software technologies - from the bottom layer to application-level systems.

The AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) path planning algorithm, known as the "soul" of the automated terminal control system, was one of the team's most significant breakthroughs.

To simulate real-world working conditions, the team conducted a 48-hour endurance trial in sub-zero temperatures, enduring countless failures and errors before successfully launching a brand-new, high-efficiency AGV path planning algorithm.

"Only by constantly learning new knowledge and mastering new technologies can we keep pace with the times," said Zhang Changjiang, a team member born in the 1980s. He once dedicated three consecutive days and nights to resolving the AGV charging bottleneck, successfully reducing equipment weight by 12 tons and extending battery lifespan to over 12 years.

Transitioning from a follower to a pioneer, the "Liangang Innovation Team" has maintained unwavering momentum in technological advancement.

Zhang Liangang's phone is filled with blueprints for future port projects. "We are currently planning multiple technological innovations," he explained. "First, we aim to accelerate the implementation of new quality productive forces such as artificial intelligence. Second, we are focusing on original, fundamental innovations for the next-generation intelligent, efficient, green, and lightweight port handling equipment. Third, we are committed to building the next generation of smart and green ports."

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Du Mingming)
Woodland Park city councilwoman Carrol Harvey will face a special election after City Clerk Suzanne Leclercq announced that enough valid signatures existed on recall petition.

Petitions were also turned in for Jeffrey Geer and Steve Smith, but Leclercq and her panel of four election judges deemed there were not enough valid signatures to proceed on their recall votes.

Meanwhile, a recall petition was received for Catherine Nakai, who is currently serving as mayor pro-tem. She has until 5 p.m. May 12 to validate the signatures on Nakai's petition.

David Illingworth II and Richard Caviness submitted the petition, which contains 627 signatures. In order to join Harvey in the special election, 577 of those must be validated.

The recall came about as a result of a schism between the City Council and the Woodland Park School District over the council voting to remove a 1.09% sales tax that benefited the district.

A series of confrontations over the district's reporting, or lack of reporting from the council's viewpoint, was followed by a new intergovernmental agreement between the sides. Shortly after that, the council put a repeal of the tax on the ballot, which voters rejected.

That was followed by the council making a move to repeal the tax again, despite the vote. After deliberation, they voted to keep the tax.

It didnt matter what we did," School Board President Mick Bates said. "It wasnt enough.

Immediately after that vote, the council called a special meeting and went ahead and repealed the tax.

From the council's perspective, though, it was a result of death by a thousand cuts.

Featured Local Savings

The school district made a habit out of releasing controversial news on the day after a council meeting. One of those was the closing of a school. The most recent was on the day after council killed the move to repeal the tax, when the district released a damning audit report.

According to Harvey, the report stated the school district did not "accurately reverse sales tax accruals or record the year-end sales tax accruals" had "no system of controls in place related to sales tax revenue and receivables" and the "sales tax revenue and related accruals were materially misstated."

The final cut came in a discussion item on the board's meeting agenda.

"The school board demonstrated an intent to vote on an action to use the sales tax as a funding source to allow the local charter school to purchase a school district facility, potentially obligating taxpayers to keep the tax in place for the next 30 years," Harvey said.

She said the council ultimately had no other option but to repeal the tax.

"The school board directors, as well as the previous district superintendent and select district staff, are directly responsible for the loss of the sales tax, not the Woodland Park City Council," Harvey said. "Their inability to provide control measures and accurate reporting on the use of the sales tax is the only reason the council, under Colorado constitutional authority, voted to repeal the tax."

The petition to recall Harvey contained 755 signatures, 630 of which were deemed valid, according to Leclercq. Her recall required 577 signatures.

The petitions to recall Smith and Geer each had 802 signatures. Leclercq deemed that 657 signatured were valid on Geer's petition and 649 on Smith's. Each required 721 to proceed.

The difference in thresholds were based on voter turnout. Geer and Smith were elected in 2024, which had a significantly higher voter turnout than 2022 election, during which Nakai was elected. Harvey was appointed by the council to fill a seat vacated from the 2022 election.
Paul J. Batura is a local writer and founder of the 4:8 Media Network. He can be reached via email Paul@PaulBatura.com or on X @PaulBatura
Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Sonie Munson, now waves to the crowd during the In Their Honor Veterans Day Parade on Tejon Street in downtown Colorado Springs.
Elon Musk's Starlink low earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation has an almost unassailable lead in the space communications race with its massive domination of the skies in terms of numbers.

Depending on whose figures you believe, there are currently somewhere around 10,000 active LEO satellites orbiting the earth, of which about 75% are Starlink (>7000).

Former German Ambassador to Luxembourg Dr Heinrich Kreft and and journalist Andreas Dripke have written a book called "Race to Space" in which they delve into the growing economisation and militarisation of space.

Dr Kreft believes that the only other player capable of challenging SpaceX and Starlink is the Amazon Kuiper project.

He says the fact that three-quarters of the approximately 10,000 satellites currently orbiting Earth belong to SpaceX's Starlink network is largely a result of the company's technological lead in rocket development.

In addition, because of SpaceX, the US is considerably more advanced in space technology than Europe.

"Europe's latest rocket model, Ariane 6 (which had its first flight on July 9, 2024), is 'at least a generation' behind SpaceX's Falcon 9 (which first flew on June 4, 2010)," Dr Kreft and his co-author Dripke say.

"SpaceX's Starship (first orbital flight on May 5, 2021), which is roughly twice the size of Ariane 6, can carry about five times the payload into space.

"The fact that three-quarters of the approximately 10,000 satellites currently orbiting Earth belong to SpaceX's Starlink network is largely a result of the company's technological lead in rocket development."

Meanwhile, the EU is building a LEO constellation called IRIS2 of only 290 satellites that will not be operational until 2030.

What's more, the authors say IRIS2 is not suited to direct-to-device communications with standard smartphones.

The two authors believe that the emerging Kuiper satellite network from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos' space company, Blue Origin, has a better chance of catching up with Starlink.

Since 2024, the company has been producing up to 80 satellites per month at its own manufacturing facility, with the commercial launch planned for the end of 2025.

"The race for fast internet connections from space will likely come down to Jeff Bezos' Kuiper and Elon Musk's Starlink in the future," the authors say.

"Global satellite networks go far beyond economic interests; they involve fundamental geostrategic security considerations," said Dr Kreft.

"This includes everything from drone control in conflict zones like Ukraine to providing non-terrestrial communication infrastructure during natural disasters on Earth."
Australian telco TPG Telecom has sent the first direct-to-smartphone text message on its Vodafone mobile network using US satellite operator Lynk Globals fleet of LEO satellites.

Lynk has direct-to-device (D2D) technology called LEOsat that uses a small constellation of LEO satellites to connect to mobile phones on the ground in a way similar to roaming networks.

Connecting through Lynks "cell tower in space" LEO satellites, TPG Telecom sent a series of text messages from rural New South Wales to standard smartphones via the Vodafone mobile network.

The message Happy Easter! was sent from the Northern Tablelands of NSW near the Nowendoc National Park via the Lynk Global satellite constellation.

According to TPG, the trial used a range of popular mobile devices including Apple iPhone, Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel handsets, without any modifications to existing devices.

The landmark achievement represents a stepping stone to near 100% mobile coverage in Australia, putting us on the path to eliminate mobile coverage dead zones and improve rural and remote connectivity right across the country, said TPG Telecom Chief Technology Officer Giovanni Chiarelli.

LEOsat technology will be a game-changer for emergency communications and keeping Australians connected no matter where they are.

TPG says LEOsat technology could eventually enable TPG Telecom to deliver basic voice, text, and data services to coverage gaps in very remote locations.

"This is a significant step in our mission to improve connectivity across Australias vast land mass, ensuring every Australian, regardless of location, stays connected to the world," Chiarelli said.

TPG Telecom plans to conduct additional trials in different locations later this year and will explore voice calls and limited data services in the future.

As a result of its new agreement with Lynk, TPG has joined Telstra in Australia as a partner of the US satellite operator.

"We are thrilled to partner with TPG Telecom in sending and receiving this historic text message on Vodafones network from rural Nowendoc, having been originated via the Lynk satellite network, said Lynk Global VP, Asia-Pacific, James Alderdice.
COMPANY NEWS: Atturra (ASX: ATA), a leading technology services business in designing, implementing, and maintaining IT solutions, has today announced that the organisations Microsoft Practice is one of the first Australian Microsoft partners to achieve all six Solution Designations in the Microsoft Cloud Partner Program.

This milestone recognises Atturra as one of a select group of Australian Microsoft sovereign partners to meet the highest benchmarks of capability and client success across the full Microsoft Cloud.

The Microsoft Cloud badge is awarded to partners who achieve all six Solution Designations.

The Solution Designations are: Business Applications, Data & AI (Azure), Digital & App Innovation (Azure), Infrastructure (Azure), Modern Work, and Security.

Were incredibly proud to be recognised as one of the first partners to achieve designation across every Microsoft Cloud solution area, said Greg Mace, Executive General Manager, Cloud Business Solutions at Atturra. Its a reflection of the commitment and depth of our national team of over 150 security-cleared, Australian based, Microsoft experts. As a result, both enterprises and public sector agencies trust and empower Atturra to solve complex business challenges to deliver a world-class experience and drive transformational change using the latest Microsoft technologies.

The Microsoft Solutions Partner designation demonstrates Atturras technical capabilities, experience, and ability to deliver mission-critical solutions aligned to public and private sector clients across Australia.

Each Solution Partner Designation is assessed against rigorous criteria covering performance, technical skilling, and proven client success. For Atturra, this recognition not only validates years of investment in Microsoft capability but also unlocks new opportunities to innovate alongside Microsoft and support more strategic digital transformation initiatives for clients.

Atturra began its journey in the Microsoft Cloud Partner Program in 2015. Since then, the Microsoft Practice has rapidly expanded its footprint, securing contracts across Defence, Education, Utilities and Government sectors. The full set of designations now enables enhanced collaboration with Microsoft, providing exclusive programs to accelerate client outcomes through AI, cloud modernisation, and secure infrastructure deployment.

This achievement is more than a badge, added Mace. It means we can continue to offer our clients the confidence that their digital investments are supported by one of the most qualified Microsoft teams in the country  and one thats backed by sovereign delivery capability.
This recognition is granted to select UiPath partners that have received early access and training in agentic automation capabilities from UiPath, that have identified use cases and scenarios for customers where agents can help augment end-to-end process automation, and that have contributed to further development of UiPath agentic automation solutions.

The badge of distinction for UiPath Agentic Automation Fast Track Partners demonstrates an outstanding commitment from UiPath partners to deliver an orchestrated enterprise for customers through a combination of AI agents, robots, people, AI models and other tools to orchestrate and automate end-to-end enterprise processes.

Tecala has been a UiPath partner since 2018, is a UiPath Platinum Partner and the first UiPath Partner in Australia and New Zealand to be awarded esteemed UiPath Services Network (USN) accreditation.

Shaun Leisegang, General Manager  Automation, Data and AI, Tecala said, "At Tecala, we believe the future belongs to the dream team: Robots, AI Agents, and People working together in harmony. Being recognised as a UiPath Agentic Automation Fast Track Partner is not just an achievement  its a signal to our customers that were leading from the front. With UiPaths agentic capabilities, were unlocking a new frontier of intelligent automation that empowers people, augments decisions, and delivers real business transformation. The agentic era has arrived  and were proud to be shaping it."

People have long turned to robots for automating repetitive tasks, freeing themselves to focus on more fulfilling and important work. Businesses have embraced automation to streamline operations, cut costs, and improve customer experiences. However, traditional automations have been less effective on complex, unstructured processes where intelligent decision-making is needed. Now, a new era for automation  agentic automation  accelerates these advancements by combining AI, automation, and orchestration, giving agents the power to plan, work, and make decisions with minimal human oversight.

Agentic automation expands the automation potential of all organisations by placing focus not just on individual tasks, but on entire end-to-end processes. UiPath is the industrys first enterprise-grade platform for agentic automation designed to transform the way humans work. The UiPath Platform accelerates the shift toward a new era of agentic automationone where agents, robots, people, and models integrate seamlessly to enable autonomous processes and smarter decision making.

Im thrilled to congratulate Tecala on its recognition as a UiPath Agentic Automation Fast Track Partner, said Ashim Gupta, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer at UiPath. Our partners play a critical role in the agentic future of UiPath, from identifying use cases to providing product feedback to co-innovating to help solve customer challenges. IDC forecasts a total market opportunity for agentic automation of $14 billion by 2028. As the market rapidly expands, partners can shape it and seize a first mover advantage. Tecala has earned this distinction by receiving hands-on training with our agentic solution, Agent Builder, and establishing their commitment to ushering in the agentic era for customers.
COMPANY NEWS: Ip.Glass, a leading provider of innovative cybersecurity solutions, today announced that it has been recognised as an Engage Preferred Services Partner (EPSP) within Fortinets Engage Partner Program.

This designation highlights Ip.Glasss capability to expertly deploy, operate, and maintain end-to-end security solutions, enabling organisations to achieve significant digital acceleration. Notably, Ip.Glass is proud to be the first partner in Australia to receive this esteemed accreditation.

"Ip.Glass is thrilled to be the first organisation in Australia to achieve Fortinet's Engage Preferred Services Partner designation," said Semyon Taskin, Managing Director of Ip.Glass. "This recognition not only distinguishes us in the competitive cybersecurity landscape but also reinforces our commitment to delivering exceptional security services tailored to the needs of our enterprise and government customers. The rigorous training and expertise required to obtain this accreditation allow us to better support businesses navigating an ever-changing digital environment."

As an Engage Preferred Services Partner, Ip.Glass receives access to specialised training and direct assistance from Fortinet experts, enabling the development of new skills in advanced security support and services for customers, particularly those with rapidly evolving hybrid network infrastructures. Collaborating directly with Fortinet Professional Support experts empowers Ip.Glass to implement best practices, leading to enhanced expertise and visibility while establishing a more robust services portfolio.

"Fortinet is excited to welcome Ip.Glass as the first EPSP in Australia," said John Millionis, Channel Director  Australia at Fortinet. "Its commitment to excellence in cybersecurity perfectly aligns with Fortinets mission of delivering comprehensive cybersecurity through the Fortinet Security Fabric. By leveraging this partnership, Ip.Glass is well-positioned to provide enterprise and government customers with the critical resources necessary to address modern security challenges."

A program focused on enabling opportunities for partners

Fortinet is dedicated to empowering partners to meet new and evolving customer challenges arising from work-from-anywhere models, hybrid IT environments, and the expanding threat landscape through Fortinets Engage Partner Program and its extensive enablement tools. The program focuses on enabling unique growth opportunities with Fortinets expansive portfolio, centred around the Fortinet Security Fabric, which is designed to secure customers entire infrastructure from the data centre to the cloud.

In addition, Fortinet is committed to fostering productive, predictable, and rewarding partnerships that allow partners to differentiate themselves from competitors. The Fortinet Engage Partner Program equips partners with essential industry knowledge, enhances business opportunities, and accelerates growth by delivering digital acceleration for customers through customisable programs.

About Ip.Glass

Ip.Glass is at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation, providing tailored solutions that protect enterprise environments from an ever-evolving threat landscape. With a focus on delivering exceptional service and expertise, Ip.Glass empowers businesses to advance their digital transformation while fortifying their security posture.
COMPANY NEWS: Wavelink, an Infinigate Group company and leader in technology distribution, services and business development in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ), has announced its partnership with Honeywell , a global leader in automation technologies, to deliver its Productivity Solutions and Services (PSS) portfolio to the Australian channel.

This partnership significantly enhances Wavelinks mobility portfolio by offering Honeywells automatic identification and data capture solutions to partners across various industries, including retail, manufacturing, transportation, logistics, healthcare and utilities.

Honeywell will benefit from Wavelinks extensive end-to-end channel support, which includes marketing and business development, pre- and post-sales expertise, training and enablement, staging and implementation services, as well as professional services and customer lifecycle management.

Mark McDonald, general manager of Mobility at Wavelink, said, Honeywells portfolio complements and expands Wavelinks existing mobility solutions. It provides our partners access to proven, industry-grade technology that addresses real-world challenges in environments where accuracy, speed and reliability are critical. Honeywell is an exciting addition to Wavelinks mobility portfolio suitable for a range of sectors where Wavelink already has a well-established presence.

The partnership will focus on connecting Honeywell with specialist partners who have deep experience and established customer bases in aligned verticals. Wavelink will also implement a complementary go-to-market strategy that pairs Honeywells technologies with other vendor solutions to deliver enhanced value for end-customers.

Ilan Rubin, chief executive officer of Wavelink, added, This partnership is about more than just adding a globally recognised brand to our portfolio. Its about delivering value for our partners by combining Honeywells world-class mobility solutions with Wavelinks deep vertical expertise and strong channel enablement and development capabilities. Honeywell gains access to a dedicated team that understands the nuances of local markets, backed by more than 25 years of experience creating demand and supporting partners to deliver on complex customer needs.

As part of Wavelinks operational technology (OT) strategy, Honeywell solutions will also be integrated into broader use-case-driven initiatives that span cybersecurity, infrastructure and data visibility, reinforcing Wavelinks commitment to delivering business outcomes through technology partnerships.

Bartek Krajewski, Asia Pacific Sales Leader, Honeywell Productivity Solutions and Services, said, Honeywells collaboration with Wavelink will extend the reach of our portfolio in Australia. We value their proven track record in mobility, deep understanding of customer pain points and ability to build and support a thriving partner ecosystem. Together, were confident in delivering exceptional outcomes across key verticals.

This partnership signifies Wavelinks continued momentum in building a future-ready channel while further strengthening its reputation as the go-to distribution partner for global technology leaders in the Australian market.

About Honeywell

Honeywell is an integrated operating company serving a broad range of industries and geographies around the world. Our business is aligned with three powerful megatrends  automation, the future of aviation and energy transition  underpinned by our Honeywell Accelerator operating system and Honeywell Forge IoT platform. As a trusted partner, we help organizations solve the worlds toughest, most complex challenges, providing actionable solutions and innovations through our Aerospace Technologies, Industrial Automation, Building Automation and Energy and Sustainability Solutions business segments that help make the world smarter and safer as well as more secure and sustainable. For more news and information on Honeywell, please visit www.honeywell.com/newsroom.

About Wavelink

Wavelink, an Infinigate Group company, is a leading technology distributor in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ), specialising in channel services and business development with a strong focus on advanced cybersecurity, networking, and mobility solutions. We empower our channel partners with the support and technical expertise they need to succeed while building strategic channels for our vendor partners.

Wavelink stands out in the ANZ distribution market due to our specialised expertise in vertical and OT, providing unparalleled depth to our technologies and services. Our deep understanding of customer needs lets us connect vendor technologies with the right partners and end customers. This is reinforced by our comprehensive services portfolio, designed to drive partner success at every opportunity.

For more information, visit www.wavelink.com.au.
SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. (AND NO SPAM!) Just click here.

Naturally enough, newspaper staffers might get a little sensitive over the very idea of getting arrested, much less deported, for penning an op-ed article.

In the United States of America, mind you.

But that is the position in which Tufts University graduate student Rumeysa Ozturk strangely finds herself. She was among four authors of a pro-Palestinian essay published in The Tufts Daily, a student-run newspaper, which also had 32 other university co-signers. There was nothing particularly unusual about the piece. Certainly nothing actionable in a nation in which freedom of speech is guaranteed in the First Amendment. Nothing, in a free country, that could possibly lead to arrest.

And yet, plain and simple, she was arrested for writing an op-ed. Under the orders of the secretary of state. Of the United States of America. Fellow Americans, this is the kind of extremism, of authoritarianism, on the part of a presidential administration that we let stand, without vigorous objection, at our own peril.

The academic free speech organization FIRE filed a friend of the court brief in support of Ozturk's lawsuit against the Trump administration following her arrest: "It is unthinkable that a person in a free society could be snatched from the street, imprisoned, and threatened with deportation for expressing an opinion the government dislikes. Certainly not in the country envisioned by our nation's framers.  The Secretary argues his discretionary power over lawfully present international students includes the authority to order their arrest, detention, and deportation for even protected speech. It does not."

It most certainly does not. In fact, what she was doing was encouraged by the very university she is a doctoral student at: "[a]ctive citizenship, including exercising free speech and engaging in protests, gatherings, and demonstrations, is a vital part of the Tufts community," says the student Code of Conduct.

So Ozturk and her co-authors quoted that encouragement in their op-ed. While all Americans who follow the news about the unsettling crackdown on free speech by the Trump administration are aware of Ozturk's arrest, few enough may have read the actual essay in question. So there may be a suspicion that rather than the usual sober-minded opinion-page arguments about public policy we're used to seeing in these pages, there was something incendiary, something a bit Molotov cocktail, about the piece.

There is not. It is an academic-style essay, using lawyerly logic instead of anarchic rabble-rousing, asking Tufts to get on "the right side of history" by officially protesting American support for the war in Gaza, comparing the university's role now to its former failure to divest from South Africa during apartheid.

You can agree or disagree with the op-ed's points, but you won't find anything objectionable about the way it is written. And even if you did, if you value free speech, you wouldn't call for its authors' arrest. But that is rather the point here: This op-ed, given all the incendiary writing in this world, is the one out of which the White House wants to make a federal case? If so, what will it do with future authors truly making a call for readers to march toward the barricades?

And that is precisely the free-speech argument made in the op-ed: "The great author and civil rights champion James Baldwin once wrote: The paradox of education is precisely this: that as one begins to become conscious one begins to examine the society in which [they are] being educated.'"

Surely that is the kind of knowledge and critical thinking we want our universities to impart to their students, whether foreign or domestic. It's what our Supreme Court encouraged back in 1957 in the case of Sweezy v. New Hampshire: "students must always remain free to inquire, to study and to evaluate, to gain new maturity and understanding."

And yet, because she wrote an op-ed, here in 2025, a graduate student in the United States of America sits inside a Louisiana jail.

(COMMENT, BELOW)
MATTOON  The City Council voted 4-0, with one abstention, Tuesday evening to approve a special use permit for a cannabis dispensary in the former First National Bank building at 511 Lake Land Boulevard.

Mayor Rick Hall and council members Erica Butler, Jim Closson, and Dave Cox voted for the permit application filed by developer TC AppliCo, LLC for a Justice Cannabis Co. location. This will be the first cannabis dispensary in Mattoon, although there are dispensaries in nearby Charleston and Effingham.

After the meeting, council member David Phipps said he abstained from the vote due to him having a business relationship with the property owner, but he is supportive of the planned dispensary.

"I am glad it passed from an accountability standpoint. It's highly regulated now," Phipps said during the meeting, adding that he feels that the state of Illinois regulates cannabis dispensaries more stringently that alcohol- or gambling-related businesses. The other council members did not discuss their positions on this issue during the meeting.

TC AppliCo attorney Craig Krandel told the council that the Mattoon dispensary will abide by state regulations, including limits on how much cannabis an individual customer can purchase in a day or month.

Krandel said customers will have their identification checked by security at the front door to ensure they are 21 or older before admission and will be checked again at the sales counter. He said the products will be kept in a secure location on site away from the sales floor and cannot be consumed there. He added that the former bank's drive through will not be utilized.

In addition, Krandel said this will meet the city cannabis ordinance's requirement that a dispensary be more than 1,000 feet away from any school. That criteria had contributed to the previous city council voting 3-2 against TC AppliCo's application in 2022 for the former Long John Silver's site at 1208 Charleston Ave., which is located less than 1,000 feet from school-related services.

"We have met the criteria of location," Krandel said.

Phipps said he respects the petitioner and the opponents of the permit who spoke during the meeting and appreciates that they brought information with them to support their positions.

Opponent John Coin of Mattoon discussed the possible impact of marijuana dispensaries upon traffic safety and provided links to related news articles and academic studies.

For example, Coin cited a University of Illinois Chicago study that found that the legalization of cannabis was followed by a 14% increase in crash fatalities in California, 16% in Colorado, 20% in Alaska, and 22% in Oregon.

Angela Hampton of Mattoon said she is concerned about the high level of THC in commercial cannabis and possible links to psychosis, as well as the burden that increased local cannabis use could place on healthcare workers and emergency responders.

Dixie Freeland of Mattoon said she is concerned about increased local cannabis availability hurting the families of those who use this drug and about the location of the dispensary, along Marshall Avenue on the way to Mattoon High School on the west side of town.

"Our high school kids drive by there every day, sometime two or three times a day," Freeland said.

Proponent Tom Wright of Mattoon, who served 21 years in the Army, said he uses cannabis for medicinal purposes because of a back injury that causes him chronic pain, adding that there are many others in similar situations.

Wright said he understands the "gateway drug philosophy" but he believes that those who follow cannabis on to hard drugs were already facing situations in their lives that made them vulnerable to addiction.

"In my life experience, I feel those who use marijuana responsibly are the majority," Wright said. He added that cannabis is a legal product in Illinois and that Mattoon should be able to permit its sale here and receive the resulting sale tax revenue.

The city council approved a cannabis ordinance a few months ago that directs 25% of the sales tax revenue from cannabis sales to Mattoon Police Department equipment, 25% to nuisance property cleanup and demolition efforts, 25% to local addiction/mental health treatment services, and 25% to capital improvements that are not budgeted for or within TIF districts.
The Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Board of Education must explain to the state how it plans to address projected budget shortfalls for the current fiscal year or risk financial sanctions and added state oversight of its finances.

Besides providing a detailed explanation of actions the board and district staff have taken to mitigate a projected budget shortfall, the state has requested the local board tell it who it has employed or contracted with to provide technical assistance on its current budget and next years budget.

The board must provide the information to the state by May 15.

Sent electronically to school board members on May 1, the letter cited a state statute regarding budgeting, management and spending. The Winston-Salem Journal obtained the letter Monday.

"This communication serves as a warning that you must meet your legal and fiscal oversight obligations to avoid financial sanctions and additional oversight of the district by the State Board of Education and DPI," read the letter, which was signed by State Board Chair Eric Davis and State Superintendent of Schools Maurice "Mo" Green.

Superintendent, chief financial officer are leaving

The letter was also sent to Superintendent Tricia McManus and Chief Financial Officer Tommy Kranz.

Both McManus and Kranz announced their retirements in April. Both will leave the district on June 30.

A cursory review of the current budget by the Department of Public Instruction showed that the school district has spent $10 million more on non-instructional personnel than the state has allotted. Non-instructional personnel include counselors, social workers and other employees who support teachers.

The district also overspent its federal grant money by $3.7 million, according to the cursory review.

Amanda Lehmert, a school district spokeswoman, said the school district will work with the state to provide the information requested.

"We are working diligently to right-size the budget and set us up for fiscal sustainability. We have already implemented a series of cost-saving measures this fiscal year and have more that will go into effect for the next budget year, beginning July 1, she said.

The school district has already sought help from outside experts in public school finance to ensure it is headed in the right direction, Lehmert said.

The letter mentioned the retirements of Kranz and McManus and press reports related to the "overspent budget and overall negative financial health of your school district" as well as correspondence from local residents concerned about a looming budget shortfall for the current fiscal year.

McManus has not yet formally presented the district's budget request to Forsyth County commissioners. She is expected to do so on May 15.

School board forced to dip into reserves for $14 million

The district's financial woes came to light in early April when an audit, presented four months late, showed that the school district spent about $16 million more than was in the budget, forcing the school system to move $14 million from fund balance, which is basically the school system's savings account, to pay for raises and bonuses for some of its employees.

The school district was cited in the audit for not getting approval from the elected school board to use fund balance, something that is required in another state statute.

Most of the overspending, about $10 million, was on payroll. The school district rolled out a series of pay increases and bonuses to employees that year, projects that the school board approved after being told that the school district had the money to cover it.

With the fund balance down and the school district at risk again of finishing fiscal year 2024-25 in a deficit, the district began implementing cost-cutting measures earlier this year with a goal of slashing $8 million from the current budget by June 30.

Those measures include hiring freezes, restrictions on district-owned vehicles, the elimination of some summer school programs and a spending freeze on all but essential purchases. Those actions are expected to be included in information that the school board provides to the state.

In addition, the district has been cutting from the 2025-26 budget. The school board recently approved eliminating 81 positions, that will result in savings of $7.6 million. The cuts will be made to Central Office staff and not include teachers and others who work directly with students.

Board member: Not a crisis situation

Board member Steve Wood said he was a little surprised that the state sent a warning considering the projected budget shortfall of $8 million is a small fraction of the school districts nearly $800,000 million budget.

Dealing with that shortfall is not a heavy lift, Wood said.

So I dont consider it a crisis situation, but maybe from DPIs standpoint and Superintendent Greens standpoint, they thought it needed a little extra (attention), he said.

Rather than a threat, Wood sees the letter as an affirmation for the school board to do the work of getting its finances in order.

One corrective measure the school board can take is hiring an interim superintendent to help it navigate its current financial situation. The school board expects to have an interim superintendent in place by June 1.

Board member Trevonia Brown-Gaither had a different reaction, saying she was really shocked to hear from the state.

Brown-Gaither said she has been frustrated that some financial information, including the amount of money in fund balance, was difficult to get from district leaders when she and other board members asked.

Unless were in there day-to-day and seeing purchase orders, we have to depend on staff to give us the correct answers and be honest, she said.

More questions are being raised in the community about the school districts finances, she said. But she discounted the idea that money was illegally skimmed.

Its a people thing. Its a benefits thing. We are overstaffed, and we know that. We were looking at things to help our system, and thats it, Brown-Gaither said.

She pointed to the number of positions, or allotments, that the state funds. For example, the state - the primary source of funding for school district employees - pays for 104 assistant principals, leaving local dollars to cover the remaining 55.

Board member: It took me aback

Another board member, Richard Watts, said he found the letter concerning.

We knew when we saw the audit that we were in serious trouble, so the state took the audit and said, Look, there are some things youve got to do, Watts said.

Board member Sabrina Coone said she was also shocked, particularly by the more than $10 million in expenditures on non-instructional support that the state found in its cursory review of its current budget.

It really took me aback. I had no clue that this is where we are. Its going to be imperative that we get someone in as an interim, both as an interim CFO and superintendent who has experience and can dig in and get to work, she said. I think its important we pick the right people so that we can move forward and get things back to where they need to be in our district.

Board chairwoman Deanna Kaplan said the board wants the community to know that it is committed to adopting and maintaining a balanced budget.

We take this responsibility seriously, she said. Being in good financial standing is something we are all committed to achieving.

Alex Bohannon, the board vice chair, said he would let Kaplans statement speak for him. Other school board members, Robert Barr, Susan Miller and Leah Crowley, did not immediately return messages for comment.
Nebraska's attorney general and more than a dozen sheriffs from across the state signed a letter to lawmakers Wednesday urging them not to pass a bill regulating medical marijuana, which 71% of state voters supported legalizing in November's election.

Last week, a committee of lawmakers advanced a proposed law that would dictate who can use, prescribe and sell medical cannabis in Nebraska while placing limits on how much marijuana patients could possess, how many dispensaries could be licensed to sell it and where it could be sold.

But in a letter to lawmakers Wednesday, and at a news conference unveiling the letter, Republican Attorney General Mike Hilgers cast that compromise proposal as "a recreational marijuana bill" that "would supercharge the black market" in Nebraska.

Hilgers, who is still waging a lawsuit seeking to invalidate the voter-approved medical cannabis laws over a few hundred invalid signatures discovered on the petitions that put the initiatives on November's ballot, urged lawmakers to put the bill on hold until at least next year as his legal challenge plays out.

Flanked by about a dozen uniformed sheriffs at a Capitol news conference Wednesday morning, Hilgers called the proposed regulations being considered by lawmakers "dangerous for the state of Nebraska."

His letter prompted firm opposition from supporters of medical cannabis from both sides of the political aisle, including from Sen. Ben Hansen of Blair, the Republican sponsor of the proposed law Hilgers is seeking to halt.

Hansen said the attorney general's claim that his bill would effectively legalize recreational marijuana in Nebraska "couldn't be further from the truth."

"That would be like saying we provide recreational opiates or recreational fentanyl," said Hansen, who added that "it's almost like certain parts of the bill were not read."

A compromise amendment to Hansen's proposed law (LB677) that won the support of some Republicans on the Legislature's General Affairs Committee last week would allow patients to have up to 5 ounces of cannabis  no more than 2 ounces of which could be in a dried form of the cannabis plant.

Under the law, patients would not be allowed to smoke marijuana, but it would allow for marijuana to be inhaled through vaporization or atomization, which committee members said would honor the ballot measure language.

The amended bill would allow only doctors, physician assistants or certified nurse practitioners who are licensed and practicing in Nebraska to recommend cannabis to patients with 15 "qualifying medical conditions," including ALS, cancer, epilepsy, terminal illnesses, HIV or AIDS, Parkinson's disease, and chronic pain, among other conditions.

The proposal would allow for a maximum of 30 medical cannabis dispensaries statewide, including no more than 10 in each congressional district and none within 1,000 feet of a school, child care facility or drug treatment center.

Hilgers, though, cast those regulations as insufficient.

He said allowing Nebraskans to possess dried marijuana flower while prohibiting them from smoking it "is like saying you can buy the beer, you can bring the beer home ... but whatever you do, just don't drink the beer."

"This opens up a gigantic loophole for smoking marijuana, which is recreational marijuana," he said, arguing that any form of smokable cannabis amounts to recreational cannabis.

But that argument, Sen. John Cavanaugh of Omaha said, directly contradicts the law voters passed. Initiative 437 specifically made it legal for Nebraskans to "acquire an allowable amount of cannabis and cannabis accessories"  including equipment for "inhaling" marijuana.

"All of his complaints  or almost all of them  are specifically against the ballot language, not the bill or the amendment," said Cavanaugh, a Democrat.

Hilgers also argued that medical conditions listed in the proposed law "are very vague, very ambiguous."

He said any medical provider  particularly one acting in bad faith  could exploit the "chronic pain" condition to make unnecessary recommendations, which Hilgers said his office and other law enforcement would be powerless to prevent, since the proposed law would protect providers' civil and criminal liability and leave "no practical way of revoking registration cards after they've been given to patients."

"All health licensure is at risk of revocation, except in this case  if this bill were to pass  people who recommend marijuana," Hilgers said.

The attorney general also argued that the proposal's mechanism to track cannabis sales to patients poses confidentiality restrictions on stores sharing sale information, which Hilgers suggested could open the door for patients to buy 5 ounces at numerous dispensaries daily before illegally reselling the marijuana.

"There are other states that have far more robust, far more strict, far more narrow sets of restrictions," Hilgers said, later adding: "That is not this."

Hansen pushed back on Hilgers' claims in his own remarks to reporters at the Capitol, arguing his bill treats medical cannabis "the same way that a physician would prescribe an opiate, would prescribe fentanyl, would prescribe a barbiturate."

The regulatory initiative voters passed in November established the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission and required the commission to develop regulations for licensing dispensaries by July 1  a requirement that Hilgers argued absolved lawmakers from enacting any sort of regulations this year.

But in a legal filing in March, an attorney for members of that commission, who also serves on Nebraska's Liquor Control Commission, said the commission has not received funding to carry out the requirement and can't develop regulations without first being funded.

Hansen said if lawmakers don't move forward with his bill, Nebraska "will be the Wild West."

"I mean, the Liquor Control Commission really has no idea what they're even going to do," he said. "And with the lack of funding that we're gonna probably see going towards the Medical Cannabis (Commission), we'll essentially have nothing in the state of Nebraska.

"You want to talk about denying the will of the voters? Turning a blind eye to a ballot initiative that actually helps some individuals in the state of Nebraska who really need help, I mean, that's undermining the will of the voters. So we do need this bill."

In her own statement, Crista Eggers, the executive director of Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana who helped put the issue before voters in November, said there "is no greater hypocrisy than" Hilgers urging lawmakers to let the regulations established by the ballot initiative stand after working to undo the initiative through his legal challenge.

"Attorney General Hilgers continued legal challenges and now attempts to manipulate the Legislature are among the primary reasons why Nebraskans still lack  and may continue to be denied  legal access to safe, regulated medical cannabis," she said. "Our fight remains as it always has: as a voice for Nebraska patients  real people in our communities who are suffering."

Hansen said he still expects the Legislature to take up the regulatory bill after finalizing the state's budget later this month.
Subscribe to The Podcast by KevinMD. Watch on YouTube. Catch up on old episodes!

Family physician Atharva Joshi discusses his article, How the system hunts physicians who refuse to kneel. He argues that the health care system often targets minority physicians not through overt actions but via subtle, bureaucratic processesa form of systemic discrimination based on culture or perceived difference, which he terms a hunt. Drawing from personal experience and observations, Atharva contends this marginalization is a widespread issue affecting many physicians deemed Other. Rather than simply enduring, he advocates for strategic resistance, outlining five provocative tactics: the Chameleon Principle (becoming quietly indispensable), Weaponized Absence (allowing ones removal to create a disruptive void), Reputation Obfuscation (diversifying ones professional identity), Narrative Supremacy (controlling ones story proactively), and the Yamdoot Doctrine (strategically releasing documented evidence of injustice when cornered). The discussion centers on empowering targeted physicians to fight back deliberately against systemic bias.

Our presenting sponsor is Microsoft Dragon Copilot.

Microsoft Dragon Copilot, your AI assistant for clinical workflow, is transforming how clinicians work. Now you can streamline and customize documentation, surface information right at the point of care, and automate tasks with just a click.

Part of Microsoft Cloud for Healthcare, Dragon Copilot offers an extensible AI workspace and a single, integrated platform to help unlock new levels of efficiency. Plus, its backed by a proven track record and decades of clinical expertiseand its built on a foundation of trust.

Its time to ease your administrative burdens and stay focused on what matters most with Dragon Copilot, your AI assistant for clinical workflow.

VISIT SPONSOR  https://aka.ms/kevinmd

SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST  https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast

RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD  https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended

Transcript

Kevin Pho: Hi, and welcome to the show. Subscribe at KevinMD.com/podcast. Today we welcome Atharva Joshi; hes a family physician, and todays KevinMD article is How the system hunts physicians who refuse to kneel. Atharva, welcome to the show.

Atharva Joshi: Thank you so much for having me on your podcast. It means a lot more to me than I think anyone might even know.

For the better part of the past month, Ive been painfully aware that this is going to be the only time my children ever hear me speak. One of my inspirations actually for this as a result, and part of the reason Im here, is a former professor of computer science at Carnegie Mellon University, Dr. Randy Pausch. He knew he was only going to get one shot to leave something behind for his kids too. And so if my kids ever hear this, I really want them to know exactly who I was.

ADVERTISEMENT

Kevin Pho: All right. Well, thank you again for sharing your story. So just tell us a little bit about yourself and then the KevinMD article that you shared with us.

Atharva Joshi: So I am a family physician. I was previously based out of this tiny island called Molokai, Hawaii. Ever since the last two doctors died, Dr. Thomas and Dr. Luli, they havent had a single doctor on the island who could take care of everybody there. So for the last few years at least, there was no doctor. Molokai is a very small island in the middle of the Hawaiian Island chain. You get a nine-seater Cessna that comes about twice a week if youre lucky and the weather holds. So I was really out there.

Kevin Pho: All right, so tell us about your story. What made you write on KevinMD?

Atharva Joshi: This story wasnt about why me and my childrens mother were together or why we separated or what went wrong between two people, but its about what happens when a system decided that someone like me doesnt deserve to be a father. Not because I caused harm, not because I was a danger, but because of how I was born, how I think, and what I refuse to kneel to. Thats the story I wanted to tell today. And everything else is really pretty irrelevant.

The gory legal details: I got a bunch of phone calls after I published, so I linked them in the comment section of the article, but this was never about my childrens mother. Its about the system that handed her a loaded courtroom and a culture that told her it was OK to casually pull the trigger for an ultimatum.

The brief story is I was arrested by a SWAT team after a false shooting charge was filed. Charges were dismissed. No evidence. The window was created for abducting my children. Then I dealt with the initial rounds of criminal charges and arrest records manufactured with, again, no proof, some undeserved money paid to the state judiciary. Later, the government did me the favor of expunging its own mistakes.

Then I entered the family court system expecting restitution because the threat of erasing me from my childrens lives had been carried out. Along the way, of course, my home was destroyed. My dog was locked in a bathroom filled with broken glass, and risk-free defamation, slander, and libel was sprayed all over the internet.

Kevin Pho: So tell us what happened regarding your medical practice and how that interplayed with what you did professionally.

Atharva Joshi: So I basically got attacked on all six fronts simultaneously. They attacked me at my work. My investors pulled out. They attacked my culture. They attacked my spirituality and ethics. I got slandered publicly, and then they took my kids. As a result, I no longer have a home. I no longer have a practice. And thats part of the reason Im here in DC.

Kevin Pho: All right. And regarding some of the tactics they chose to attack you with, just from a professional standpoint as a physician, explain how they tried to attack you.

Atharva Joshi: It might be a little easier to start with how I struck back, and that might explain how I was attacked a little bit more line by line. At the end of the day, theres that whole model minority script: sit down, shut up, save face. So I wrote a very restrained article, something publishable, something they couldnt twist into growling in the savage tongue or angry brown man, because even in publishing, I still had to translate my fire into something palatable. Whereas the black coats and the black robes got to spit acid and call it procedure.

If you really want the details, this was taken well, well beyond me. This has everything to do with a court in Maui County accepting, for nine months unchallenged, the signed legal argument: Petitioners false narrative regarding his caretaking lies his culture. Men did not babysit or care for children. Thats womens work only. Heres the thing: I didnt wear a Guan [assuming intended word] up to court. I wore scrubs or a suit, same as doctors Tom, Dick, and Harry.

So in one sentence, the Second Circuit court of Maui County entered the most ignorant precedent into law this century, erased my American identity, and rightly offended 1.3 billion people across two countries. That was the crux of their legal argument. They threw everything in the kitchen sink, attacked me on all those six fronts of functioning adulthood, and failing that, played the race card.

Kevin Pho: So how did you respond? What happened next?

Atharva Joshi: I lost, which is why this case is now precedent. They called me un-American. So what I decided to do was to respond in the most American way possible: I made a sign and I marched on Washington, DC so the world would see what was done, and then I unsheathed my pen so the world would know what was done.

Kevin Pho: So tell me some of the lessons that youve learned from this experience.

Atharva Joshi: So many articles written by physicians that I read have something to do with complaining about how power is wielded, but they all drip with some of the same fears that make them very effective at just being the same recycled TED talk the AMA gives every year about how theyre serving us for dinner. Academia teaches us to speak in riddles, business and politics teaches us to speak in lies, and they dont teach us any other language in medical school.

So the first lesson is: power speaks plainly. Fortunately, I had a lot of teachers that helped me with this, some living, some dead. These last few lonely months, the loudest whispers were a good Reverend Dr. King for stoic resolve in the face of what should break you. Shivaji taught me what command looks like when youre outgunned, outnumbered, and surrounded by betrayal. Durkheim taught me right from wrong. Lui taught me that tactics dont just belong to warriors; they belong to those who move before the enemy breathes. And my more modern inspiration: Commander Jocko Willink. Because sometimes it takes a Navy SEAL who eats souls for breakfast, for the can of nails, to teach you more about nonviolence, strategy, and the art of healing than any philosopher ever could.

Im not saying Im an angel, but that doesnt make me a demon either. It makes me human, and thats something the system doesnt understandnot about me, not about anyone. Physicians do. We know imperfection doesnt make someone disposable. People come to us at their worst, and we still see the divinity behind their eyes. We know being human is the whole point.

So if we could empowerand I mean actually empower, not hire another administrator to oversee another programwe could empower the only group in America that still seems to care about honor and fiduciary responsibility. We might make the world a better place.

And that was maybe the biggest lesson I learned out of this. A few of my friends reached out, sort of quaking in their boots because they knew what I might do to a system that kidnapped my children. And they were right to be afraid. But the most violent and dangerous weapon there is, the one that Im swinging, is not bloodshed; its human conscience. So when people reached out to me asking questions after reading my article, I was really very grateful. But I really hope I inspired them to do something thoughtful and good. And that was the key.

Kevin Pho: So during this ordeal, tell us about the support that you had to guide you and what it meant to you. Obviously, a lot of physicians arent versed in what you were going through. So tell me about the support that you received and what kind of help did you lean on during this experience?

Atharva Joshi: So unfortunately, part of the way the system hunts you is they isolate you. They dont just go after you; theyll go after soft targets. Theyll go after the people that stand with you. So everybody I leaned on sooner or later got attacked. My CPA was charged with criminal offensesfabricated, but enough to scare him off. My family members, you cant really lean on them because then their finances get pulled in for aiding and abetting.

Most of the support that I got was essentially through WhatsApp and people reaching out with messages. My employer was able to help me a little bit up until the business end of things got attacked, at which point they had to pull out as well.

Kevin Pho: So tell me about your practice, your medical practice during this time. When did it end? How long were you able to still practice as a physician with this personal ordeal surrounding you?

Atharva Joshi: I was able to hang in there for about nine months. And so, that was essentially the fading end of things. The human bodys OS hasnt been updated in the last hundred thousand years; I can go practice in any country that I want. And so I intend to.

But as far as my practice in America, what occurred was essentially every time I went to court, it was $5,000 and a full day lost, whether the judge showed up or not. Which meant we werent seeing patients, and we were running a small charity practice. This wasnt HCA that can afford to eat hundreds of thousands in losses and not even notice. This was a small clinic. We had Mike, Shalia, Annie, and mefive people. Thats it. We were trying to take care of an island of officially 7,000; usually, its more like 3,500 at any given point in time.

Kevin Pho: So you mentioned that during this ordeal, the proverbial race card was played. So how was your race thrown into all of this? What are some examples of that?

Atharva Joshi: It was the fact that my parenting was attacked, not on the basis of action. He literally saysthis is, Im quoting you out of the actual legal filingPetitioners false narrative regarding his caregiving lies his culture. Men dont care for or raise children; thats womens work. Nobody specified what that culture was. So if its American culture, thats even worse. And if its not American culture, which culture?

Kevin Pho: Now, did other physicians that you said reached out to you? Did you hear stories from people in similar predicaments?

Atharva Joshi: No, mostly it was thoughts and prayers and support, which, I know that line sometimes gets a little bit of ire, especially in physician circles, but it really was very, very helpful just to know that there were people out there that were still rooting for me in whatever way they could.

Kevin Pho: Now whats next for you? You mentioned perhaps practicing overseas. So where are you now? Whats the next part of your story?

Atharva Joshi: So I am still in DC right now. Ive reached out to members of Congress. Ive tried to reach out to the executive. Something interesting: in a state thats primarily brown people, there isnt a single civil rights attorney in the entire state of Hawaii thats Black or brown. So everyone was like, Why dont you just get a new lawyer? And what, pay another $15,000 to get the runaround?

So thats been my current strategy. Ive been coming up against a wall of silence, even here in DC. So from here, my next strategy will be most likely leaving for India: writing, teaching, and trying to provide charity services there where I dont necessarily have to apologize for who I am.

Kevin Pho: And for other physicians who may be undergoing a similar trial to what you went through, what kind of advice do you have for them?

Atharva Joshi: So for them, I have probably this advice: injustice is going to happen. Anti-injustice; team anti-injustice doesnt vote team red or team blue. It votes smart. It plays smarter. Whining about DEI isnt going to achieve anything, but a recording sent to HR with an implicit threat to BCC CNN or Fox News will move mountains overnight.

And if that sounded like too much, ask why you think so and who benefits when you back away? Im not going to be around here, so Ill be sipping chai on the other side, but somebody who reads this and learns from this, theyre going to be coming. And theyll know how to do this, not just administer; theyll know how to wield power honorably. Because I think thats the next step for physicians: its time for us to learn how to speak in the language of power and fight back on equal terms.

Kevin Pho: Now looking at you, Im going to assume that youre relatively young or relatively early on in your career. So I hear stories sometimes of minority physicians, early career, sometimes being targeted for whatever reason. Obviously, in your story, its a personal story that led to professional persecution, but just in general, taking a step back: for those minority physicians, early career, who may not be from the United States or may be from another country, they could be targeted for whatever reason. Do you see that happening, and is that a fair assessment? And if so, what are some ways that they can protect themselves against that situation?

Atharva Joshi: So I think theres really only one defense, which is youre going to have to work three times as hard to be heard half as much. And when someone comes after you, make sure theyre bringing evidence, not arrogance. And when they bring arrogance, like I said, send a recording to HR, threaten to leak it.

Attack power exactly where its scared to look. Dr. Kings words are actually etched on a monument here in DC, and he wrote or spoke: Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can. So when you shine a light on people that think they can operate in the dark and do whatever it is that they want to do or say, shine a light; the cockroaches will scatter.

Kevin Pho: Were talking to Atharva Joshi. Hes a family physician. Todays KevinMD article is How the system hunts physicians who refuse to kneel. Atharva, lets end with some take-home messages that you want to leave with the KevinMD audience.

Atharva Joshi: If I may, Id love to leave a last couple words to my children.

To my son Hannu, who may not remember me: I leave silence turned to strategy.

To my daughter, Aria: I leave this line. What the world sees as chaos and insanity is a web woven with such delicate complexity only fools call it madness. What they call chaos is choreography. What they call madness is structure they cant decodenot because it isnt real, but because some people would rather denigrate than admit blindness.

Kevin Pho: Thank you so much for sharing your story, time, and perspective. Thanks again for coming on the show.

Atharva Joshi: Thank you so much for having me.
Country

Afghanistan Albania, People's Socialist Republic of Algeria, People's Democratic Republic of American Samoa Andorra, Principality of Angola, Republic of Anguilla Antarctica (the territory South of 60 deg S) Antigua and Barbuda Argentina, Argentine Republic Armenia Aruba Australia, Commonwealth of Austria, Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Bahamas, Commonwealth of the Bahrain, Kingdom of Bangladesh, People's Republic of Barbados Belarus Belgium, Kingdom of Belize Benin, People's Republic of Bermuda Bhutan, Kingdom of Bolivia, Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana, Republic of Bouvet Island (Bouvetoya) Brazil, Federative Republic of British Indian Ocean Territory (Chagos Archipelago) British Virgin Islands Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria, People's Republic of Burkina Faso Burundi, Republic of Cambodia, Kingdom of Cameroon, United Republic of Canada Cape Verde, Republic of Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad, Republic of Chile, Republic of China, People's Republic of Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia, Republic of Comoros, Union of the Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, People's Republic of Cook Islands Costa Rica, Republic of Cote D'Ivoire, Ivory Coast, Republic of the Cuba, Republic of Cyprus, Republic of Czech Republic Denmark, Kingdom of Djibouti, Republic of Dominica, Commonwealth of Dominican Republic Ecuador, Republic of Egypt, Arab Republic of El Salvador, Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Republic of Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faeroe Islands Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Fiji, Republic of the Fiji Islands Finland, Republic of France, French Republic French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon, Gabonese Republic Gambia, Republic of the Georgia Germany Ghana, Republic of Gibraltar Greece, Hellenic Republic Greenland Grenada Guadaloupe Guam Guatemala, Republic of Guinea, Revolutionary People's Rep'c of Guinea-Bissau, Republic of Guyana, Republic of Haiti, Republic of Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras, Republic of Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China Hrvatska (Croatia) Hungary, Hungarian People's Republic Iceland, Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Republic of Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq, Republic of Ireland Israel, State of Italy, Italian Republic Jamaica Japan Jordan, Hashemite Kingdom of Kazakhstan, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Kiribati, Republic of Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait, State of Kyrgyz Republic Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon, Lebanese Republic Lesotho, Kingdom of Liberia, Republic of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Liechtenstein, Principality of Lithuania Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Macao, Special Administrative Region of China Macedonia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Madagascar, Republic of Malawi, Republic of Malaysia Maldives, Republic of Mali, Republic of Malta, Republic of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania, Islamic Republic of Mauritius Mayotte Mexico, United Mexican States Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Principality of Mongolia, Mongolian People's Republic Montserrat Morocco, Kingdom of Mozambique, People's Republic of Myanmar Namibia Nauru, Republic of Nepal, Kingdom of Netherlands Antilles Netherlands, Kingdom of the New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua, Republic of Niger, Republic of the Nigeria, Federal Republic of Niue, Republic of Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway, Kingdom of Oman, Sultanate of Pakistan, Islamic Republic of Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama, Republic of Papua New Guinea Paraguay, Republic of Peru, Republic of Philippines, Republic of the Pitcairn Island Poland, Polish People's Republic Portugal, Portuguese Republic Puerto Rico Qatar, State of Reunion Romania, Socialist Republic of Russian Federation Rwanda, Rwandese Republic Samoa, Independent State of San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu US Virgin Islands Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland United States Minor Outlying Islands United States of America Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe
It was a chaotic morning Friday at The Nature Place as Central Conservation service workers led Logan Middle School seventh graders through activities and conservation lessons.

The staff members had days earlier learned the funding to support their work had abruptly ended and Friday would be their last day. The loss of their jobs was part of $400 million in federal cuts to AmeriCorps programs nationwide.

The program provided grants that supported the work of six Central Conservation workers at The Nature Place in La Crosse.

We got the news at 11 p.m. Sunday. We had to tell our members on the Monday after that their funding had ended on Friday, April 25, said Paige Manges, marketing and communications manager for Central Conservation. At our heart, we are a job readiness program, and having to tell them that their position is terminated, and they need to go home, is just heartbreaking.  It was a hugely emotional day on Monday.

Its just wrong

Central Conservation is a nonprofit agency that supports environmental organizations like The Nature Place. Service terms for workers were set to continue through August, and eight additional service workers were expected to join the team to help manage summer camps.

Service members and staff at the La Crosse-based facility said they were devastated by the news.

To dedicate so much of your time to an organization just for someone who has no idea whats going on here to cut it without a moments notice  its disrespectful, its callous, and its just wrong, said Emily Orth, environmental educator and service worker at The Nature Place. This place doesnt run without AmeriCorps members.

The service workers offered critical support for the centers five full-time staff members. This summer, The Nature Place has scheduled nearly 50 summer camps with 575 registered students, and will now have 14 fewer people than expected to manage the programs, which are still expected to take place.

The AmeriCorps members were doing a lot of the planning of the activities and doing the activities under my leadership, said Stephanie Hanna, community program manager at The Nature Place. I guess its time to start thinking about how were going to do this without them.  We thought we would at least have until the end of August.

As part of Serve Wisconsin, The Nature Places AmeriCorps members were promised a weekly living stipend throughout their service term and an education award ranging between $1,000 and $7,000 through August.

Serve Wisconsin acts as the states administrator for federal AmeriCorps funds and oversees 25 service programs, including at The Nature Place. All 25 programs were terminated.

Without AmeriCorps, The Nature Place and other AmeriCorps-funded programs are unable to provide a living stipend or education award, and terminated members will receive a prorated education award, according to The Nature Place.

Impact to programs

The sudden cuts to the positions have left service workers feeling helpless, as their stipends offered just enough to make ends meet.

For me personally, I was like, if I dont have a job at the end of this week, I need to get another job because I cannot just hang out. Im living paycheck to paycheck  I cant miss one, said Gaby Dickey, environmental educator and service worker at The Nature Place. I would like to help (with summer camps) if I could, from a financial standpoint, but all of us, all of a sudden, do not have an income.

Manges said service workers from The Nature Place also expressed concern about the impact on children expected to attend summer camps starting in June.

Its not just harmful to us, its harmful to our community, said Gabby Arnold, community program educator and service worker at The Nature Place. Our community relies on us.  Its really hurting everybody.

As federal cuts jeopardize the roles of many who were set to lead the programs, remaining staff at The Nature Place is working to prepare for its upcoming summer camp season.

Were actively reconfiguring the budget, the schedules, figuring out how were going to move forward, said Manges. We really need alternative funding to keep program participants. Our first commitment is keeping summer intact  everything we can do to make sure that summer is solid.

The summer programs provide critical funding that allows the center to serve the community year-round.

What people have signed up for, theyre going to get  we just ask for flexibility, obviously, said Manges. All we can do now is just fill up our summer day camps. We dont want people to back out of those, because were counting on them.

Essential service

Local educators say the experiences provided at The Nature Place are important for youth learning.

If this didnt exist, we would have nowhere to give those extra hands-on activities for our students, said Amy Kendall, a science teacher at Logan Middle School. What is provided here isnt always in the classroom.  If this goes away, I feel like our students arent going to learn to care for their environment as much as this would help them or encourage them to do.

About two dozen states have sued the Trump administration over its cuts to AmeriCorps and programs like it that have had funds approved by Congress, including Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers.

These latest reckless (President Donald) Trump and (Elon) Musk cuts will hurt Wisconsins kids who are homeless or who need tutors for math and reading, folks who are working to overcome addiction and substance use, stop work on conservation projects, as well as all of the dedicated public servants whose livelihoods are depending on this work, Evers stated last week. While Republicans in Congress may be fine staying silent as the Trump Administration unilaterally tries to cut federal funding approved by Congress, I will not. Were going to sue to stop them.

The Nature Place leaders said they are seeking critical financial support and advocacy on their behalf, and are accepting donations on their website to continue the services they offer.

Service to one another is essential for humankind and being able to share that with other people is something beyond what you could put down on a number, said Manges. We are all servants to the community, to the land, and we dont want the headline to be this much money cut from this budget. Its beyond that; it is (about) everybody who has been through these doors.
There was a time when the views from the First Unitarian Meeting House included Lake Mendota.

Nearby University Avenue was void of bagel, coffee and ice cream shops, restaurants and apartment buildings. This was before the nearby University Hospital housed one of the busiest emergency rooms in the state and a helipad that is active 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Despite all the bustle around it, the stone-lined walls of the Meeting House, constructed in 1951 on a hill on University Bay Drive, provide a unique respite.

Its like a cathedral which has been created by the natural world, said the Rev. Kelly Asprooth-Jackson, as he stood amid the rows of cushioned wood pews. This is kind of the human-made retelling of that natural story.

That human was Frank Lloyd Wright, considered by the American Institute of Architects the greatest American architect of all time. Wright, who was born in Richland Center and whose studios were located at Taliesin just south of Spring Green, designed 1,114 architectural works, 532 of which were constructed not only in Wisconsin but throughout the world.

Destination Madison is getting on board the Wright train by creating Wright in Madison, a digital trail that highlights the architects work, including projects that were conceived but never built. The Meeting House and Monona Terrace are the crown jewels of the trail, along with the Jacobs House, the first Usonian home that serves as a reflection of Madisons growth and the evolving suburban ideal.

Designed for Herbert and Katherine Jacobs, the house was built in 1937 for $5,500 and is now a National Historic Landmark. Like Taliesin, it is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At 441 Toepfer Ave. just west of Glenway Street on Madisons West Side, the private home is now assessed by the city at $533,600.

As Madison expanded, Wrights design offered a template for suburban living that remained connected to the environment, countering the isolating sprawl often associated with suburbanization, the Wright in Madison website says. Wright championed the democratization of architecture, emphasizing that the house of moderate cost was Americas most pressing architectural challenge. The Jacobs House demonstrated that beauty and affordability could coexist, challenging conventional suburban designs.

The trail is intended to provide a deeper understanding of Wrights connections to Madison. It was created by Destination Madison in close consultation with Monona Terrace Convention Center, Taliesin Preservation, Friends of the Unitarian Meeting House and the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation to identify key connections between his time in Madison and his designs.

A focus on Wrights development

There are 13 sites on the trail, including Taliesin, the lone non-Madison point on the self-guided tour. UW-Madison has a spot, since Wright attended the university for two years but didnt graduate from the school. He did, however, receive in 1955 an honorary doctorate of fine arts from UW-Madison when he was 88 years old. His time at the school is now marked by a small statue of the Guggenheim Museum (which he designed beginning in 1943) and a plaque in Alumni Park, between Memorial Union and the Red Gym.

The park is about a half-mile to the west of where the Mendota Boathouse once stood. Wright designed the building that was constructed in 1893 at the end of North Carroll Street, but the boat house was removed in 1926 and the site is now home to an apartment building. Another boat house, designed by Wright for Law Park on Lake Monona but never constructed, is also on the trail.

But not all of Wrights Madison work is on the Wright in Madison trail. They include the Walter Rudin House at 110 Marinette Trail; the John Pew House in Shorewood Hills; and Middleton Hills, the Wright-inspired neighborhood development in Middleton where one of the streets bears Wrights name. The Van Tamelen house, built in 1956 by Marshall Erdman at 5817 Anchorage Avenue and located on a two-acre wooded lot near Glenn Stephens Elementary on Madisons West Side, was also left off the trail.

When evaluating locations to include on the trail, Destination Madison and the other involved partners decided to include stops that visitors could accessibly experience, said Sarah Werner, a Destination Madison spokeswoman. The trail tells Wrights uniquely Madison story from student to visionary (and) meant focusing on locations that were pivotal to his education and development. While we had the permission to include Jacobs House, we decided not to incentivize visitors through prizes to visit other private residences.

Arrived in Madison when he was 11

Wright was born in 1867 and moved to Madison with his family when he was 11 years old. The Wright in Madison trail marks the site of the former Second Ward School where Wright completed his seventh- and eighth-grade education. The school was later replaced by Lincoln School, which is now apartments, but the Second Ward School is where Wright met and became longtime friends with Robie Lamp. In 1893 Wright designed for Lamp, who had become a realtor and sold insurance, a summer cottage called Rocky Roost, that no longer exists, on a small island on Lake Mendota. Wright also designed the Lamp House at 22 N. Butler St., which remains a private home, is barely visible from the road and has also been left off the trail.

Taliesin Preservation is excited to be a part of the Wright in Madison legacy trail, which celebrates Frank Lloyd Wrights Madison roots, said Susan Kennedy of Taliesin Preservation. People will be able to follow his journey from young visionary to legendary architect where nature, design, and community shaped his world.

The trail is similar to that of the 200-mile Frank Lloyd Wright Trail created by state tourism officials in 2017 to commemorate the 150 years since his birth. It includes the Administration Building and Research Tower at S.C. Johnson in Racine and Wingspread, the 14,000-square-foot home of H.F. Johnson Jr. completed in 1939 in nearby Wind Point. The trail also includes one of Wrights short-lived American System-Built Homes in Milwaukee, the A.D. German Warehouse in Richland Center, Taliesin and the Wyoming Valley School.

And dont forget Monona Terrace

Other points on the Wright in Madison trail include the UW-Madison Fluno Center, a conference facility at University Avenue and North Frances Street that was built in Wrights Prairie Style design and, on the first floor, includes authentic German lithographs of Frank Lloyd Wright designs. The state Capitol also makes the list, since its design was influential in his storied career. Wright was 16 years old when in 1883, while workers were building additions to the south wing, a large portion of the structure collapsed, killing five workers.

But the most noticeable, economically significant Wright-inspired project in Madison sits on the western shore of Lake Monona just two blocks from Capitol Square. A convention center had been an obsession for Wright beginning in the 1930s but after years of debate and controversy, Monona Terrace, designed by Anthony Putnam, who studied at Taliesin, was completed in 1997, nearly three decades after Wrights death.

The 352,610-square-foot facility with over two acres of carpeting, has helped transform Madisons skyline, its economy and social scene by hosting rooftop concerts, proms, weddings and the Holiday Market in November and December.

In 2024, Monona Terrace had more than 265,000 visitors at its events, but that does not include those who just walk in to take in the lake views through the buildings arched windows, visit the gift shop or browse the art that lines the hallways. Theres also a small museum below the gift shop that pays homage to Wright and the long saga of the convention centers design and construction, where arches, globes and circles are prolific.

Frank Lloyd Wright credits the (Capitol) dome for choosing circles here because he wanted a connection between (Monona Terrace) and that building, said Heather Sabin, tourism coordinator at Monona Terrace. You dont see a skyline of Madison without this building. Its both an important architectural statement in this city but also a great economic benefit for the city.
Thousands of people have turned out to greet Pope John Paul II on his historic visit to Syria.

The pontiff drove in his popemobile through the narrow streets and was greeted by Syrias top Muslim cleric Sheik Ahmad Kuftaro.

Sheik Kuftaro said: This is an occasion that goes beyond history and will begin the process of putting peace to work in the world.

The pontiff replied: For me, too, it is a very important day. I am very happy.

Vatican and Syrian flags decorated the Umayyad Mosque in the old walled city of Damascus.

Security officers held back a crowd of curious onlookers from a nearby souk who were craning for a look at the visitor from Rome.

The Pope, who called on Muslims, Christians and Jews to work together to bring peace to the Middle East, became the first pontiff to enter a mosque.

As required by Muslim custom, John Paul II removed his shoes and put on white slippers before entering the mosque.

The 80-year-old, who has Parkinsons disease, stumbled slightly at the threshold of the mosque and again crossing the main hall.

John Paul II asked for a joint act of contrition, saying: For all the times that Muslims and Christians have offended one anotherwe need to seek forgiveness from the Almighty and offer each other forgiveness.

At the tomb of St John the Baptist the Pope paused for a minutes silent meditation. He spent 95 minutes in the mosque, which was built in AD 705 on the site of a Christian church.

The pontiff also met Agnatios Hazim IV, the Syrian-Greek Orthodox archbishop, at the Church of St Paul on the Wall in the Syrian capital.

Earlier in the day, the Pope attended a four-hour Mass in a Damascus stadium.

Courtesy BBC News

In context

The Popes visit to Damascus was overshadowed by a furious row between Syria and Israel.

On his arrival, Syrian president Bashar Assad accused Israel of trying to kill the principles of all religions with the same mentality in which they betrayed Jesus Christ andthe Prophet Mohammed.

This sparked a stern response from Israel, who urged world leaders to condemn such statements.

Israel called on Roman Catholic leaders to reject such statements with revulsion but a papal spokesman said: The Pope will absolutely not intervene. We are guests of this president and he has expressed his opinion.

The Popes visit was part of a six-day pilgrimage in the steps of St Paul, whose conversion occurred on the way to Damascus. His trip also included Greece and Malta.

The Pope died at 2137 (1937 GMT) on Saturday 2 April 2005 after he failed to recover from a throat operation.
Macau saw a surge of 850,034 visitors during the five-day Labor Day Golden Week holiday from May 1 to 5, according to preliminary data from the Public Security Police Force (PSP). This figure significantly exceeded government projections and marks a strong rebound for the citys tourism sector, with arrivals rising 40.5% from last years nearly 605,000 visitors.

On average, more than 170,000 tourists entered Macau daily, surpassing the governments forecast of 127,000 to 140,000 per day. The highest single-day total since the pandemic was recorded on May 2, with 221,968 arrivals. Other daily arrivals included 176,873 on May 1, 204,041 on May 3, and 154,411 on May 4, according to the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO).

Mainland Chinese tourists accounted for much of the growth, with 678,521 arrivals during the holiday period  a 39.6% increase from the previous year.

Visitors from Hong Kong also surged by 42.3% to 111,189. Together, these groups made up more than 90% of all arrivals during the holiday, MGTO reported.

Border crossings also saw a sharp rise, with a total of 3.12 million entries and exits recorded at various checkpoints in the first four days-a 28% increase year-on-year, averaging nearly 780,000 crossings daily. The Qingmao checkpoint handled 480,000 crossings (up 27%), Hengqin port saw 440,000 crossings (up 46.5%), and the Border Gate checkpoint recorded 1.577 million crossings (up 23.5%).

To manage the influx, local authorities implemented extensive crowd control and traffic measures. The PSP established pedestrian zones near key landmarks such as the Ruins of St. Pauls and temporarily closed parts of Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro to vehicles. For the first time, similar crowd control measures were applied in Taipa Village around Rua do Cunha. From May 1 to 5, sections of Rua Fernao Mendes Pinto, Rua Direita Carlos Eugenio, Rua Correia da Silva, and nearby roads were closed daily from noon to 7 p.m. to traffic.

Bus operators also increased service frequency to every five minutes on major routes to ease transit.

Despite these efforts, long taxi queues and crowded buses were common. Some residents expressed concerns to local media that tourists were prioritized over locals, with bus rides extending from the usual 15 minutes to as long as 45 minutes due to congestion. Tourists also reported frustration over overcrowding and limited ride-hailing options.

The tourism sector reaped benefits from the visitor influx. Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, head of MGTO, reported hotel occupancy rates above 95% on May 1, noting that many visitors opted for day trips from nearby Zhuhai.

We are very happy with this figure. It indicates that tourists are very willing to come to Macau, Senna Fernandes said. Whether they stay overnight or not, we hope they feel greater ease in visiting Macau, which is the most important thing.

Since January 1, 2025, Zhuhai city residents with household registration can apply for a new one-trip-per-week visa to visit Macau, allowing stays of up to seven days. Mainland Chinese residents holding both household registration and a Hengqin residence permit can apply for a multiple-entry visa, permitting unlimited trips within the visas validity, with each visit limited to seven days. These measures aim to promote easier travel between the cities.

Meanwhile, border inspection agencies across China have recorded about 10.9 million entry and exit trips made during the five-day May Day holiday, representing a year-on-year increase of 28.7%, according to the National Immigration Administration (NIA) yesterday.

Of these trips, 5.78 million were made by mainland residents and four million were made by residents from Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, up 21.2% and 37.1% year on year, respectively.

Nadia Shaw
Cardinals electing a new pope have some fundamental questions to weigh, beyond whether to give the Catholic Church its first Asian or African pontiff, or a conservative or progressive.

Although they come from 70 different countries, the 133 cardinals seem fundamentally united in finding a pope who will be able to make the 2,000-year-old church credible and relevant today, especially to young people.

Its a tall task, given the sexual abuse and financials scandals that have harmed the churchs reputation and the secularizing trends in many parts of the world that are turning people away from organized religion.

Add to that the Holy Sees dire financial state and often dysfunctional bureaucracy, and the job of being pope in the 21st century seems almost impossible.

We need a superman! said Cardinal William Seng Chye Goh, the 67-year-old archbishop of Singapore.

The cardinals will begin trying to find him today, when those princes of the church walk solemnly into the Sistine Chapel to the meditative chant of the Litany of the Saints. Theyll take their oaths of secrecy under the daunting vision of heaven and hell in Michelangelos Last Judgement, hear a meditation from a senior cardinal, and then cast their first ballot.

Assuming no candidate secures the necessary two-thirds majority, or 89 votes, the cardinals will retire for the day and return on Thursday. They will have two ballots in the morning and then two in the afternoon, until a winner is found.

Asked what the priorities of the cardinal electors were, Goh told reporters this week that the No. 1 issue was that the new pope must be able to spread the Catholic faith and make the church relevant in todays time. How to reach out to young people, how to show a face of love, joy and hope.

A pope for the future

But beyond that, there are some real-world geopolitical concerns to take into consideration. The Catholic Church is g rowing in Africa and Asia, both in numbers of baptized faithful and vocations to the priesthood and womens religious orders. It is shrinking in traditionally Catholic bastions of Europe, with empty churches and the faithful formally leaving the church in places like Germany, many citing the abuse scandals.

Asia is ripe for evangelization and the harvest of vocations, said the Rev. Robert Reyes, who studied in the seminary with Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, the Filipino prelate considered a contender to be the first Asian pope.

But should the pope necessarily reflect the new face of the Catholic Church, and inspire the faithful especially in the parts of the world where the momentum of growth is already under way? Does it even matter?

Pope Francis was the first Latin American pope, and the region still counts the majority of the worlds Catholics.

Indian Cardinal Oswald Gracias, the retired archbishop of Mumbai, said the church needs to become more Asian, culturally and spiritually.

The center of gravity of the world is shifting toward Asia, he said. The Asian church has much to give to the world.

At 80, Gracias wont be participating in the conclave, but India has four cardinal-electors, and overall Asia counts 23, making it the second-biggest voting bloc after Europe, which has 53 (or likely 52, given that one is not expected to participate for health reasons).

One of the big geopolitical issues facing the cardinals is China and the plight of the estimated 12 million Chinese Catholics there.

Under Francis, the Vatican in 2018 inked a controversial agreement with Beijing governing the appointment of bishops, which many conservatives decried as a sellout of the underground Chinese Catholics who had remained loyal to Rome during decades of communist persecution. The Vatican has defended the accord as the best deal it could get, but it remains to be seen if Francis successor will keep the policy.

The church in Africa

According to Vatican statistics, Catholics represent 3.3% of the population in Asia, but their numbers are growing, especially in terms of seminarians, as they are in Africa, where Catholics represent about 20% of the population. Catholics are 64% of the population in the Americas, 40% of Europes population and 26% of Oceanias population, according to Vatican statistics from 2023, the last available year.

Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, the archbishop of Kinshasa, Congo, said he is in Rome to elect a pope for the worlds 1.4 billion Catholics.

I am not here for the Congo, I am not here for Africa, I am here for the universal church. That is our concern, the universal church, he told reporters. When we are done, I will return to Kinshasa and I will put back on my archbishop of Kinshasa hat and the struggle continues. NICOLE WINFIELD, Vatican City, MDT/AP
The Health Bureau (SSM) is seeking pilot sites for designated smoking areas as part of its efforts to expand outdoor smoking restrictions to include school and nursery entrances, as well as plazas and streets.

Alvis Lo, director of SSM, revealed during the Legislative Assemblys (AL) policy debate on social and cultural affairs that the authorities are currently revising the citys tobacco control law.

The bureau is collaborating with relevant entities to plan the designation of additional smoke-free outdoor public spaces, including at the entrances of childcare centers and schools. Furthermore, for larger public spaces such as plazas and streets, they are exploring the feasibility of establishing no-smoking zones where smoking would only be allowed in designated areas, as part of their preliminary communication and research efforts, said Lo.

Meanwhile, in an interview with public broadcaster TDM earlier this week, he elaborated on the no-smoking areas at the entrances of schools and nurseries, stating: Its similar to what we implemented at bus stops, where we designated an area where smoking is not allowed.

Lo pledged that the government would protect non-smokers as much as possible, including by better regulating smoking while walking, which would require smokers to use designated smoking areas established in streets and plazas.

According to the bureau, the pilot sites for designated smoking areas in plazas will be strategically located, not necessarily in high-foot-traffic areas. This initiative aims to gather valuable insights on the effectiveness of the scope, definition, and signage of these areas.

Additionally, Lo revealed plans to standardize plain packaging for tobacco products, which will include Middle Eastern hookahs and herbal cigarettes.
May 1, Labor Day, saw the Macau police arrest a man for allegedly violating the citys Assembly and Demonstration Law by displaying and shouting slogans outside the Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL).

On the same day, the local association Macau People Power announced the cancellation of its previously submitted notice for a march, citing invisible pressure from the police.

This year marks the sixth consecutive year without a Labor Day march in Macau. In both this year and last year, although notices were submitted regarding plans for a march, the police stated that the organizers had voluntarily canceled the event.

A video circulated on social media platforms on Thursday showed a man outside the DSAL headquarters in Areia Preta early that morning, displaying a banner that read, We want the government to reduce non-local workers, while waving both the Chinese national flag and the Macau Special Administrative Region flag. Several police officers were present, filming the scene.

Related posts quickly attracted significant attention and discussion among netizens.

At around 7 p.m., the Public Security Police (PSP) sent a text message to the media confirming the incident, stating that the man had staged a demonstration without the prior notice required by law.

The message further noted that the man was suspected of violating the relevant provisions of the citys Assembly and Demonstration Law and was taken to a police station for further investigation after ignoring several warnings issued by the police officers on-site.

On suspicion of protest without prior notice and disobedience to the police, the mans case was transferred to the Public Prosecutions Office (MP).

Under the headline Another Person Detained in Macau for Exercising His Fundamental Right to Protest, lawyer Jorge Menezes criticized the police on his Facebook account for excessively piling on charges against the man.

The exercise of a right became, not one, but two criminal offenses. They feel more competent by piling crimes on top of crimes, he remarked.

We know what happens when someone does something that the domesticated sheep think is politically sensitive: he will be charged and found guilty. It is like watching a movie whose ending we already know. Thats how predictable and unreliable the legal system is in Macau, he added.

This is Macau at its best: the authoritarian and ignorant mentality of its authorities, from the police all the way to the top.

Referring to the Macau Basic Law, which clearly stipulates that all residents of Macau have the right to assemble peacefully and without carrying weapons in public places, places open to the public, or private places, without any prior authorization, Menezes stated: The right to protest, as the law provides, does NOT depend on prior authorization. No one needs authorization to protest. It is a fundamental right.

Speaking about disobedience to police orders, Menezes emphasized that disobeying such orders only constitutes a crime if the orders themselves are lawful. He argued that requiring advance notice and ordering a protest to disperse do not qualify as lawful orders.

Actually, the law provides that The authorities that, outside of legal constraints, prevent or attempt to prevent the free exercise of the right of assembly or protest incur [a criminal] penalty, he went on to state.

Menezes also highlighted that prior notification does not equate to prior authorization from the police. Instead, the purpose of notification is to allow authorities to protect protesters and prevent those who oppose them from interfering.

On Labor Day, five representatives from Macau People Power handed a petition to the Government Headquarters in the morning. However, the groups chairman, Lam Weng Loi, told the media that their original intention was to express their demands through a protest march.

However, as reported by All About Macau, after submitting prior notice to the police in mid-April, the group, including Lam and his fellow member, was approached multiple times over the following week by officers who invited them to meet outside the police station. During these meetings, they discussed potential uncontrollable situations that could arise from the march, which might hold the organizers liable for joint responsibility or even risk violating the National Security Law.

Ultimately, according to Lam, they felt compelled to change their plans and submit the petition instead.

The petition letter submitted to Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai reportedly expresses concerns that the employment and non-local worker policies outlined in the policy address do not meet public expectations. The group questions the authorities approval of non-local labor quotas, alleging that the process fails to adhere to established criteria and lacks transparency.
A man from mainland China was imprisoned after borrowing money from illegal lenders to gamble at a casino in Cotai. The man borrowed HKD280,000 in chips, paying HKD160,000 in interest, but lost all his money. He was confined for six hours in a hotel room, during which he secretly contacted relatives for help. Upon receiving a report, the Judiciary Police rescued the victim and arrested two mainland suspects, aged 43 and 35, involved in the illegal lending operation.

Related
In collaboration with the Guangdong Office of the Macao Chamber of Commerce and with support from the Economic Development Bureau of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone, MGM hosted the Cooperation Zone Visit and Business Matching Session earlier under its Seizing Business Opportunities in Cooperation Zone 2025 SME Cooperation Program. The event sought to harness the unique Macau+Hengqin positioning to serve as a dynamic platform for driving regional integration, fostering deeper exchanges and collaboration between Macau and Hengqin enterprises, and further supporting Macaus economic diversification.

Business Matching: Creating Opportunities for Hengqin and Macau Enterprises

This years event built on the successful outcomes of last years Integrated Resort Procurement Needs Introductory Session and Cooperation Zone Tour and Exchange. MGM organized over 20 management team members from more than ten departments to conduct one-on-one business matching sessions with Macau-owned SMEs from the Cooperation Zone and the Greater Bay Area, aiming to explore business opportunities and promote regional cooperation.

During the event, MGM inked a procurement intent agreement with Uni-Win, a Macau-based company with whom connections were established during last years program. MGM will purchase high-quality halal-certified plant-based meat products from the companys OLACARNE brand as an option for customers and employee restaurants Green Monday initiative, promoting green lifestyles while providing healthier dining choices for customers.

The agreement was signed by Simon Leong, Assistant Vice President of Purchasing at MGM and Marco Li, founder of Uni-Win. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Xie Yingjun, Deputy Director of the Economic Development Bureau of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone; Kenneth Feng, President and Executive Director of MGM China Holdings Limited; and Kevin Ho, Vice President of the Macao Chamber of Commerce and Deputy Director of the Working Committee for the Participation in the Construction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

Visiting Hengqin Enterprises: Focusing on Environmental Protection

and Technological Development

On the same day, MGMs management team conducted on-site visits to three MGM vendors, all Macau-based environmental protection and technology companies that have expanded into Hengqin: Wellwin Technology Limited (focused on low-altitude economic development and robotics applications), the Macau young entrepreneur ChaZence (specializing in transforming tea waste into environmentally friendly materials) and BoardWare Intelligence Technology (certified as a Key Technology Enterprise by the Macao SAR Government). Through these visits and exchanges, the team gained a deeper understanding of the vendors operations within the Cooperation Zone, allowing them to grasp the competitive advantages of businesses operating in Hengqin. These insights will serve as valuable references for MGMs future initiatives in supporting key industrial projects in Hengqin and Macau.

MGM

Avenida Dr. Sun Yat Sen, NAPE, Macau

E info@mgmchina.com.mo

W http://www.mgm.mo/
Chinese President Xi Jinpings visit to Russia from Wednesday to Saturday will be his 11th and it marks yet another milestone in the enduring partnership between China and Russia and the head-of-state diplomacy that has been such a defining feature of the two countries relations in the new era.

Since 2013, President Xi and Russian President Vladimir Putin have convened over 40 times, keeping the trajectory of the China-Russia relationship on a steady course amid the challenging and changing global landscape. Through regular meetings and diverse communication channels, the two leaders have established a strong personal rapport and aligned their stances on bilateral affairs, global dynamics and international governance.

This continuous dialogue has not only bolstered political trust but also laid the groundwork for collaborative mechanisms at multiple levels, including routine head-of-state summits that have ensured the effective execution of mutual agreements.

The deepening personal rapport between the two leaders has yielded significant dividends for the two countries cooperation across various sectors such as the automotive, electromechanical and agricultural industries, and the fostering of a robust wave of collaboration in emerging domains.

Notably, China has consistently held its position as Russias principal trading partner for 15 consecutive years, while Russia has risen to be Chinas eighth-largest trading partner. In 2024, the bilateral trade volume between the two nations exceeded $240 billion, surpassing projections well ahead of schedule.

The unwavering commitment of the two leaders to fortify the ties between their two countries exemplifies a strategic partnership founded on trust, cooperation and shared development objectives.

As a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry highlighted, the upcoming visit underscores the shared importance the two sides attach to deepening political trust and enhancing practical cooperation amid the rapidly evolving global environment.

As China and Russia continue to navigate the complexities of the turbulent global geopolitical landscape, their collaborative efforts stand as a testament to the resilience and dynamism of their leaders enduring rapport.

A lot of changes have taken place in the world and regional arena since their last face-to-face talks in Russias Kazan in October on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS Summit, not least the change of US administration with a White House agenda aimed at reinforcing US exceptionalism.

But against the backdrop of this years significant historical milestones, including the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War, both nations have reaffirmed their commitment to preserving the lessons of the past and upholding the values of international justice and fairness that were the intended pillars of the postwar system.

Thus the two leaders have agreed to jointly remember history, honor the martyrs, and foster a right view of history, and to defend the outcomes of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War.

President Xis upcoming state visit is expected to inject fresh vitality into the two countries cooperation and contribute positively to strengthening their comprehensive strategic coordination, which stands as a beacon of stability in an uncertain world.

By staying true to their shared vision and goals, the two countries are demonstrating the value of deep political trust and practical cooperation in releasing the dividends of mutually beneficial engagement for the benefit of their people.

The strong rapport between the two leaders is testament to the enduring power of the two countries steadfast partnership of collaboration and friendship that is poised to shape the future landscape of multipolar international relations.

[Abridged]

Editorial, China Daily
Just as Japans top trade negotiator traveled to Washington for another round of tariff talks last week, a bipartisan delegation bearing the name of Japan-China Friendship wrapped up a visit to Beijing.

A week earlier, the head of the junior party in Japans ruling coalition was in Beijing delivering a letter from Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba addressed to Chinese President Xi Jinping. Details of the letter are unknown, but the two sides discussed U.S. tariffs in addition to bilateral issues.

Among all U.S. allies being wooed by Beijing in its tariff stare-down with Washington, Japan stands out.

It is a peculiar case not only for its staunch commitment to its alliance with the United States but also for its complicated and uneasy history with the neighboring Asian giant  particularly the war history from the 20th century that still casts a shadow over the politics of today.

On one hand, they are neighbors and they are important economic partners. Theres a lot that connects Japan and China, said Matthew Goodman, director of the Greenberg Center for Geoeconomics at the Council on Foreign Relations. But on the other hand, I think there are limits to how far theyre going to lean into China.

While Japan wont walk away from its alliance with the United States, the linchpin of the Asian countrys diplomacy and security policies, its also true that the tariffs and uncertainty that Trump has created for Japan is really shaking things up in Tokyo, Goodman said.

Last month, President Donald Trump announced a 24% tariff on Japanese goods in a sweeping plan to levy duties on about 90 countries. The White House has since paused the tariffs but a 10% baseline duty on all countries except China, allowing time for negotiations. Still, Trumps 25% tax on aluminum, steel and auto exports have gone into effect for Japan.

The tariff moves, as well as Trumps America First agenda, have cast doubts among the Japanese if the United States is still a dependable ally, while China is rallying support from tariff-threatened countries  including Japan.

In Beijing, Japan sees positive signs

When Tetsuo Saito led Japans Komeito Party delegation to Beijing in late April, China hinted at difficulty in its tariff dispute with the United States, signaling its willingness to improve ties with Tokyo. An unnamed senior Chinese official said his country was in trouble when discussing Trumps 145% tariff on Chinese products, according to Japanese reports.

Saitos visit was soon followed by that of the bipartisan delegation of Japan-China Friendship Parliamentarians Union. Zhao Leji, Beijings top legislator, told the delegation that Chinas National Peoples Congress would be willing to carry out various forms of dialogue and exchanges.

Beijing did not lift a ban on Japans seafood imports as the Japanese delegates hoped, but it signaled positive signs on its assessment of the safety of the discharges of treated radioactive wastewater from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. Beijing banned Japans seafood products in 2023, citing those concerns.

Ties between Tokyo and Beijing have long been rocky. In the past several years, they squabbled not only over the seafood ban but also long-standing territorial disputes over the Senkaku, or Diaoyu, islands in the East China Sea, Beijings growing military assertiveness and violence against Japanese nationals in China  an issue complicated by the nations uneasy history.

Tokyos closer ties with Washington during Joe Bidens presidency also upset Beijing, which saw it as part of the U.S. strategy to contain China and has lectured Tokyo to face squarely and reflect on the history of aggression.

An imperial power in Asia for centuries, China fell behind Japan in the 19th century when Japan began to embrace Western industrialization and grew into a formidable economic and military power. It invaded China in the 1930s and controlled the northeastern territory known as Manchuria. War atrocities, including the Nanking Massacre and the use of chemical and biological weapons and human medical experiments in Manchuria, have left deep scars in China. They have yet to be healed, though Japans conservative politicians today still attempt to deny the aggression.

Ishiba, elected Japans prime minister in October, has a more neutral view on his countrys wartime history than the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and his two successors. Weeks after taking office, Ishiba held talks with Xi on the sidelines of a leaders summit.

Chinese scholars, however, see Tokyos recent engagements with Beijing as a pragmatic move to hedge against U.S. protectionism and not a long-term strategy for stability with China.

The odds are low for Japan to move into Chinas orbit, Goodman said. They have for a long time had to manage an important but challenging relationship with China, he said. And that is, again, a long-standing problem for Japan, going back centuries or millennia.

Seeking tariff deals and stable ties in the US

While Japan might welcome the friendlier tone from Beijing, it is trying to stabilize Japan-U.S. relations under Trumps America First agenda, and it is hoping to settle the tariff dispute without confronting Washington, with an eye on preventing Beijing from exploiting any fallout in Japan-U.S. relations.

Japan was among the first countries to hold tariff talks with Washington. During the first round in mid-April, Trump inserted himself into the discussions, a sign of the high stakes for the United States to reach a deal with Japan. The Trump administration reportedly pushed for Japan to buy more U.S.-made cars and open its market to U.S. beef, rice and potatoes.

After the second round of negotiation in Washington last week, Ryosei Akazawa, the countrys chief tariff negotiator, said he pushed Japans request that the U.S. drop tariffs and was continuing efforts toward an agreement acceptable to both sides. He said Japans auto industry was already hurting from the 25% tariff and that he needed to be thorough but fast.

Asked about China, Akazawa said only that his country keeps watching the U.S.-China tariff development with great interest. He noted Japans deep trade ties with China. MARI YAMAGUCHI & DIDI TANG, MDT/AP
U.S. casino operators in Macau are facing mounting geopolitical risks amid intensifying trade tensions between China and the United States, according to a recent report released by Fitch Ratings.

Fitch highlighted that operators including Las Vegas Sands, Wynn Resorts, and MGM Resorts International, who derive a substantial portion of their revenue from Macau, could be vulnerable to retaliatory measures as bilateral tariff disputes deepen.

Las Vegas Sands generated 63% of its 2024 revenue from Macau, followed by Wynn at 52%, and MGM at 23%.

Despite the rising concerns, Fitch stated there are no current indications that Beijing is targeting U.S.-owned gaming firms in Macau. The sector contributes around 80% of the citys tax revenue, with U.S. operators responsible for over half of its gross gaming revenue.

The U.S. operators have also pledged material investments over the next 10 years to develop non-gaming attractions in Macau, Fitch noted.

Historically, Chinas responses to foreign corporate conflicts have centered on regulatory scrutiny rather than direct bans.

While a license non-renewal scenario post-2032 is considered a worst-case outcome, Fitch views this as highly unlikely within the current forecast horizon.

However, if U.S.-China relations deteriorate further, Fitch warns that forced divestments of Macau operations could become more plausible.

In addition to geopolitical risks, a weaker economic outlook in China is expected to weigh on gaming revenue. Fitch revised Chinas 2025 GDP growth forecast down to 3.9%, while slightly raising consumption growth expectations to 3.3%.

Year-to-date gaming revenue in Macau has remained flat, falling short of early-year growth expectations.

The report noted that U.S.-based entities and their Macau subsidiaries maintain separate debt structures, with no cross-guarantees, and are legally ring-fenced.

Fitch assesses the parent companies as stronger entities under its rating criteria.

Fitch emphasized that healthy balance sheets and strong liquidity offer some protection. Las Vegas Sands maintains notable ratings headroom, supported by robust cash flows.

Wynn and MGM also retain adequate financial flexibility at current rating levels.
An ethnic militia in southeastern Myanmar that has been sanctioned by the United States for alleged involvement in human trafficking and online scams yesterday denied the accusations.

The U.S. Treasury Department yesterday announced sanctions against the Karen National Army, or KNA, as well as its leader Col. Saw Chit Thu and his sons, Saw Htoo Eh Moo and Saw Chit Chit. They are accused of facilitating cyber scams that harm U.S. citizens, human trafficking, and cross-border smuggling, according to a Treasury Department statement.

Cyber scam operations, such as those run by the KNA, generate billions in revenue for criminal kingpins and their associates, while depriving victims of their hard-earned savings and sense of security, said Deputy Treasury Secretary Michael Faulkender. Treasury is committed to using all available tools to disrupt these networks and hold accountable those who seek to profit from these criminal schemes.

Those who are hired to carry out the scams have often been tricked into taking the jobs under false pretences and find themselves trapped in virtual slavery.

The sanctions block the targeted individuals and their companies from accessing money and assets under U.S. control, and prohibit U.S. citizens from providing financial services to them.

Saw Chit Thu has already been sanctioned by the European Union and the U.K. for profiting from scam compounds and human trafficking.

Lt. Col. Naing Maung Zaw, a spokesperson for the KNA  which operates as the Karen ethnic minoritys official Border Guard Force affiliated with Myanmars military government  said the groups activities are aimed at regional development and not related to cyber scams.

He described the U.S. sanctions as a deliberate act of abasement by a powerful country over a weaker one.

They are doing it because they can, he told The Associated Press on Tuesday.

Local militias in several border regions have de facto control in areas where their minority groups are dominant. The KNA controls Shwe Kokko and some areas in Myawaddy, on the border with Thailand in the state of Kayin, also known as Karen state.

Shwe Kokko and Myawaddy are known havens for criminal syndicates that have forced hundreds of thousands of people in Southeast Asia and elsewhere into helping run online scams, including romantic ploys, bogus investment pitches and illegal gambling schemes. Critics have accused the KNA of being involved in the criminal activities, at least to the extent of providing protection to the scam centers.

Naing Maung Zaw said scam operations were carried out not only in areas controlled by the KNA but also in other places in Myawaddy.

He acknowledged that his group rented land to some businesses holding the property where scam centers were located and said the KNA would continue with its mass repatriation of the foreigners working in scam centers, which it carries out in cooperation with the military government.

He said 7,454 of 8,575 foreign scam workers have been repatriated through Thailand following a crackdown on the scam centers by Thailand, Myanmar and China in February.

Naing Maung Zaw said more than 10,000 people remain to be identified in the KNA-controlled areas, and the group will continue to work toward the elimination of scam activities.

Kayin state, which is dominated by the Karen ethnic minority, has seen intense armed conflict since the army seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021.

The U.S. has previously imposed sanctions on Myanmars military leaders, their suppliers and state-owned banks in connection with alleged human rights abuses. MDT/AP
A partial collapse of a temporary construction platform at the A3 Bridge site, linking Zone A of Macaus new landfills to the peninsula, has resulted in both a construction machine and its operator falling into the sea.

The accident, which occurred late last week, was revealed in a video clip posted online showing a section of the temporary scaffolding on the A3 Bridge suddenly collapsing, causing a crane and its operator to tip over and splash into the sea. Following the incident, workers used ropes to rescue the operator from the water.

The Public Works Bureau (DSOP), Maritime and Water Bureau (DSAMA), and Labor Affairs Bureau (DSAL) issued a joint statement that afternoon confirming the accident.

The statement emphasized that the operator was able to climb ashore on his own and was later sent to the hospital by the contractors. Reports quoted in the statement indicate that he suffered minor injuries but remained conscious after the accident and was taken for a thorough examination.

Primarily connecting Zone A with the Outer Harbour Terminal and Avenida da Amizade, the A3 Bridge spans a total length of 750 meters.

According to official records, the Public Works Bureau (DSOP) approved the design and construction of the bridge last year, with the project being undertaken by a joint venture between Top Builders Group and China Road & Bridge Corporation. The budget for the project exceeds MOP600 million, and it is scheduled for completion in March 2027.

As noted in the statement, the three bureaus have expressed their deep concern over the incident, issuing a stop-work notice to the relevant contractors along with an immediate suspension of all construction activities.

Additionally, arrangements have been made for the salvage of construction machinery, and measures will be implemented to prevent pollution in the affected water areas during the salvage operations.

In the incident, according to the statement, the DSAL is actively assisting with matters related to work injury compensation. Meanwhile, the DSOP has urged contractors and supervising entities to fully cooperate with the administrative authorities in investigating the cause of the accident and to submit a report within a prompt timeframe.
Barangay Paltok, Quezon City recently celebrated its annual Binibining Paltok pageant, showcasing the beauty, grace, and talent of its young women. Emerging victorious was Pielle Malapit, who was crowned Binibining Paltok 2025 during the vibrant event.

The pageant also recognized Patricia Edulan as the 1st Runner Up and Jairyn Gabon as the 2nd Runner Up, both of whom impressed the audience and judges with their poise and talent.

- Advertisement -

SK Chairwoman Jane Cleverly Aguilar and Binibining Paltok 2025 Pielle Malapit

The winners and other contestants were also recognized for their outstanding performances in various categories:

 Jairyn Gabon received special awards for Best in Talent, Best in Funwear, and Miss Photogenic.

 Patricia Edulan was awarded Best in National Costume, Best in Talent, and was named Darling of the Crowd.

 Pielle Malapit was recognized for Best in Summer Wear.

The successful event was spearheaded by the Sangguniang Kabataan ng Barangay Paltok, under the leadership of SK Chairwoman Jane Cleverly Aguilar, who were commended for fostering a platform that celebrates the youth and community spirit.

A pivotal moment of the evening was the question and answer portion, where candidates articulated their views on relevant social issues. The winning question posed to the finalists was: Kung ikaw ang magiging Binibining Paltok 2025. Paano mo hihikayatin ang mga kabataan na bumoto nang tama? (If you were to become Binibining Paltok 2025, how would you encourage the youth to vote correctly?)

Pielle Malapits winning answer resonated deeply with the audience and judges. She stated, I believeif I will be crowned as Binibining Paltok 2025I will use this opportunity to use my voice and the essence of my initiative [to educate] that will benefit not only our era, but the future of our community. Her response highlighted the importance of using her platform to educate and empower the youth to make informed decisions during elections.

The Binibining Paltok 2025 pageant not only celebrated the beauty and talent within the barangay but also underscored the importance of youth engagement and responsible citizenship.
Another war has begun between arch-rivals India and Pakistan, in which both have claimed victory so far. In the early hours of 7 May, the Indian Air Force carried out nine attacks inside Pakistan and Pakistani-administered Kashmir. In retaliation, Pakistan claims to have downed five Indian jets, which India has so far denied.

India has claimed that the places targeted inside Pakistan were camps operated by terrorist organisations Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Muhammad, which have been responsible for several terrorist attacks in India. Pakistan has declared that 26 lives were lost and 46 were injured in these attacks, which struck different cities of Pakistan and Azad Kashmir, including Muridke near Lahore. Those killed include several family members and associates of Masood Azhar, who is on the UNs list of terrorists.

Pakistan has claimed that five Indian jet planes involved in the attack were shot down, including three Rafale planes, one MiG-29 and one Su-30. Pakistan has also vowed to respond to these attacks with full force in the coming period. During these aerial attacks, heavy shelling was reported along the Line of Control, which is the de facto border between India and Pakistan in Kashmir. Both sides have claimed that they inflicted heavy losses on the other side.

These attacks have come a few weeks after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, a tourist site in Indian-occupied Kashmir, in which 26 people were killed. India blamed this massacre on Pakistan. Indian Prime Minister Modi had vowed to take revenge for this terrorist attack, which he prepared in the weeks since.

After the attack in Pahalgam, India also announced that it would unilaterally place in abeyance the Indus Water Treaty IWT, which is the basis of the distribution of river water between the two countries. This treaty, signed by both countries in 1960 and guaranteed by the World Bank, has survived many wars and attacks, but was now the first casualty of this war. Many other retaliatory actions were announced, including the stoppage of flights by each others airlines over both countries.

On both sides, we have also seen state authorities and ministers issuing statements provoking war hysteria. Mainstream media has been in a frenzy, with news anchors spitting venom on TV screens, threatening to destroy each other completely through nuclear annihilation and conquest. All this has been rejected and received with disgust by the working class. There is a sentiment for peace and respect between Indian and Pakistani workers. On the other hand, many lumpen elements and middle-class bigots have been talking about blood and revenge while living luxuriously in their comfortable bedrooms.

The rulers of both countries were also involved in lobbying internationally, and all major powers in the world, including the US and China, have issued statements and used diplomacy reflecting their own interests in the region. An urgent meeting of the UN Security Council was also held on 6 May, in which both India and Pakistan presented their positions. As always, this impotent institution and tool of the imperialist powers was unable to do anything to stop the frenzy.

Factors behind the present flare-up

In the immediate aftermath of these events, things havent completely calmed down. There remains a risk of escalation in which either side could retaliate to safeguard its own interests, carrying the war forward by some distance. Given that both sides are nuclear powers, there have been calls for restraints from all quarters, internationally and domestically. However, the balance of forces in the region is unstable and the risk of this war escalating remains, although there can be delays, pauses and new starts depending on the situation.

In India, Modi is quite worried about the upcoming state elections in the important state of Bihar, which he fears he will lose / Image: Government of India, Wikimedia Commons

Though the hostility between these two countries never completely ended over the last eight decades, there are many factors that have led to the current flare-up. The most important are the internal crises of both regimes, which are becoming deeper. There is widespread hatred among the working class for their rulers in both countries. This has pushed the rulers on both sides to engage frantically in an external war in order to prop up their popularity at home, so that they may continue looting and plundering their own masses with the renewed popularity and strength that comes with proclaiming victory and crushing the enemy.

In India, Modi is quite worried about the upcoming state elections in the important state of Bihar, which he fears he will lose. He is using war hysteria to bring back his voters who are increasingly rejecting him due to the rising poverty, unemployment and disease that Modi and his coalition partner Nitish Kumar, the chief minister of Bihar, have overseen.

Modi has used this tactic quite successfully before. In 2019, just a few weeks before the general elections in India, Modi launched surgical strikes inside Pakistan in which, according to him, several terrorist camps were targeted and many terrorist training centres were destroyed. At that time too, a terrorist attack in Pulwama in Indian-occupied Kashmir was used as an excuse for these strikes. Pakistan retaliated and shot down an Indian fighter jet at that time too, capturing an Indian pilot, who was returned within a few days.

Pakistan claimed a victory at the time, whilst Modi and his party used the conflict to win a landslide in those elections. There were several other reasons for this victory, the most important being the impotence and total capitulation of the opposition, especially of the Communist Parties. They failed to give an alternative to the liberal policies of Modi by proposing a revolutionary alternative and by attacking the Indian bourgeoisie. Nonetheless, Modis warmongering was a useful tactic for the Indian ruling elite.

Now, once again, Modi is using war against Pakistan to save his declining popularity and voter base. His fall in popularity was reflected in the last general elections in 2024, in which he lost his majority in the Lok Sabha [the lower house of Parliament of India] and had to rely on coalition partners to form the government.

Bihar is one of the most important states in India, with a population of around 130 million. Modis partner and chief minister Nitesh Kumar has been in power there since 2015 but is now worried that he could lose the upcoming elections. A defeat in Bihar could be the start of the endgame for Modi. To avoid this, he is going all out and using all available options.

Modis weakness was also exposed when he agreed to hold a caste census, a demand raised by the Indian National Congress and other parties which Modi and his party had vehemently opposed. Opposition parties raised this issue because they wanted to appease the voters of lower castes, attracting their votes by promising a bigger share in government jobs through allotted quotas. Now, Modi has made a U-turn on this issue to try and swing the elections.

The balance of forces in South Asia

US imperialism has developed closer strategic ties with India in the last decade and is heavily reliant on it to counter China in the Indo-Pacific region. This is why Modi feels emboldened against a weaker Pakistan, which has been a stooge of US imperialism since its creation, but which has lost its place for US imperialism, especially after the USs humiliating withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021.

Pakistani defence minister Khawaja Asif recently spoke about this, and about Pakistan's role in supporting terrorism while talking to a foreign TV channel. He said that, yes, Pakistan has been supporting terrorism, but that this was the dirty work they were doing for the US and the British, which was a mistake.

He did not, however, explain who gave the government its mandate to do this dirty work, and why those who committed this mistake are still in power and have not been punished under Pakistani law. In fact, this is a reflection of the frustration of the Pakistani ruling class for its abandonment by US imperialism in favour of India. In response, Pakistan is forced to rely increasingly on China to better strategically position themselves against India.

Modi is now using the situation to build Indias clout in the South Asian region against the rising influence of China. With the changing balance of forces at the international level and China emerging as a world power with its own imperialist ambitions colliding with those of the US, the balance of power in the Indian Ocean and South Asia has also shifted considerably.

China is consistently growing its influence in all countries of South Asia and building huge projects in Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and the Maldives. In Pakistan, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor CPEC is the flagship project of China's Belt and Road Initiative. Pakistan is also the most indebted country to China in the world, according to a recent report published by China.

China has also announced that it is building a huge dam in Tibet, the largest in the world, which will severely impact the flow of the Brahmaputra River in eastern India. All this has led to more tension between India and China while, conversely, their mutual trade is growing, approaching $150 billion per year. Both are thus also becoming more dependent on each other.

Modis attacks on the working class

But the most important aspect for Modi is the movements of the workers and farmers in India, which are growing continuously. There is already a call for a general strike on 20 May, which has been prepared for several months. Though there have been many general strikes in previous years, every time the anger and hatred towards the Modi regime is growing, approaching a boiling point. In fact, the apparent spectacular success of the Indian economy compared to other countries of the world has only added fuel to this anger, which could burst to the surface sooner rather than later.

Though there have been many general strikes in previous years, every time the anger and hatred towards the Modi regime is growing, approaching a boiling point / Image: fair use

Bangladesh, though a much smaller economy than India, was considered a rising tiger, a rapidly growing economy, under Sheikh Hasina. But to the shock of many, there suddenly erupted a mass movement which overthrew that regime.

A similar situation could develop in India. Despite Modis boasting about the GDP growth rate and the fact that India has become the fourth largest economy in the world, this year the bubble could end up bursting.

In fact, the tariff war imposed by Trump against China is helping India, as Apple and many other companies are shifting their businesses there. But this has also led to greater exploitation of Indian workers, who are being brutally attacked by the Modi regime with new anti-labour laws. This situation could push the working-class movement towards more militant action against the government.

A huge farmers movement had already defeated Modi in 2021, when he was forced to repeal draconian farm laws that he had enacted to appease big business while ruining millions of farmers and their families across India.

Modi has also unleashed brutal attacks on the working class in India with wage cuts, large-scale privatisations, downsizing and attacks on unionisation. This has aided the unrelenting exploitation of the Indian bourgeoisie whose wealth has reached unprecedented levels.

After more than a decade of Modis rule, the top one percent in India owns more than 40 percent of the total wealth of the country, whereas the bottom 50 percent get three percent of it. At least 129 million Indians live in extreme poverty. Modi has used this war to divert all this anger in the working class towards a foreign enemy. He is portraying this as a victory scored against terrorism in order to continue his rule in service of the Indian bourgeoisie and its looting and plundering of the country.

In this regard, the Communist Parties have issued disgraceful chauvinistic statements of support for Modis policy, playing directly into his hands. The Communist Party of India statement says, CPI believes that India had little choice but to respond firmly against the sources of such terrorism, congratulating Modi for his calibrated and non-escalatory approach, and then calls on the Modi government to bring all parties together in national unity against terrorism!

The two main Communist parties in India have taken a national chauvinist position and rallied around their own reactionary ruling class and government. Shame. pic.twitter.com/iMPl7xkplM  Jorge Martin  (@marxistJorge) May 7, 2025

The Communist Party of India (Marxist)  supposedly the more left of the communist parties  likewise praises the government and even calls for more pressure on the Pakistani government and more action by the government to ensure the integrity of the country. This is a betrayal of the internationalist duty of communist parties to fight the warmongering and chauvinism of their own ruling class and to stand up for the self-determination of the Kashmiri people.

The Pakistani ruling class

On the other hand, the Pakistani ruling class has benefited from this war even more than Modi, having used the conflict to crush the rising tide of mass movements against it. Following the dictates of the IMF and World Bank, the economy has fallen into a deep abyss and the country is stumbling repeatedly into bankruptcy.

To continue its loot and plunder, the ruling class and the international financial institutions have unleashed massive attacks on the working class with wholesale privatisations of hospitals, schools and colleges across the country. There is a huge movement of the workers from these sectors and just one day before the Indian strike, huge protests were held in several cities of Punjab in which thousands of hospital workers, including young doctors participated.

There are also many other mass movements ongoing across the country, including a mass movement of Baloch people against state repression and national oppression, which the state has failed to subjugate despite carrying out huge military operations that have killed and abducted thousands of people and destroyed whole populations. In fact, these operations and arrests have fuelled even more mass protests across Balochistan.

This mass movement of Baloch people has also exposed the bankruptcy and the reactionary role of armed groups claiming to fight for national liberation and against the Pakistan army. In fact, the recent kidnappings on the Jaffar Express, a train carrying hundreds of passengers, including army personnel, is considered by some to be the trigger of these recent events.

This mass movement of Baloch people has also exposed the bankruptcy and the reactionary role of armed groups claiming to fight for national liberation and against the Pakistan army / Image: Baloch Yakjehti Committee, Twitter

Pakistan blames India for supporting Baloch guerrillas and has vowed to take revenge. Many analysts have claimed that the incident in Pahalgam might have been Pakistans response to the hijacking. However, the main threat to the Pakistani ruling class is not these armed groups, allegedly supported by the Indian state and the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, but the mass movement in which tens of thousands are participating across Balochistan.

Another real threat emerged for the Pakistani ruling class recently with the eruption of a mass movement in Sindh over the question of new canals and river water. The Pakistani government had announced plans to build six new canals on the Indus River, of which some would mainly supply water to a desert called Cholistan.

This $4 billion project of corporate farming was controlled by the army and backed by the World Bank. It would hugely affect the farmers in Sindh and Punjab who are already facing water scarcity. Diverting water to these new canals would destroy the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of these farmers.

Already, the government in Pakistan has unleashed unprecedented attacks on farmers. Farmers sowing staple crops like wheat have been ruined as they are forced to sell it at below cost price.

This situation triggered a mass movement in Sindh in which a protest starting on 16 April blocked the main artery of the country connecting Sindh and Punjab. All the goods transported in the country came to a grinding halt for a few weeks during these protests. The government was unable to resolve this issue despite frantic efforts by the main coalition partner, the PPP, which is also in power in the Sindh province.

The movement was growing and more and more people in Sindh came out to join the protests and attack the generals and also the PPP for their treacherous role. Though the PPP and other parties tried to divert this movement towards nationalist hatred against Punjab, they were not very successful in this.

In the end, the government accepted the demands of the protestors, though they falsely claimed that this was not due to the pressure of the movement but because Modi announced the unilateral cancellation of the Indus Water Treaty. In this context, the leadership of the PPP, including Bilwal Bhutto, vehemently attacked Modi and said that either our water will flow or their blood will.

Meanwhile, he and his party are enriching themselves by the blood and sweat of millions of farmers and workers in Pakistan. This war has certainly helped him and his colleagues in the ruling coalition to divert the anger of the workers.

Mass movements in Kashmir

Similarly, a huge mass movement is ongoing in Pakistan-held Kashmir, where tens of thousands have mobilised twice in the last year to deliver a crushing defeat to the ruling class.

Under the leadership of the Awami Action Committee in Kashmir, the people won the fight against a price hike, forcing the government to bring down the price of electricity and wheat flour massively. One unit of electricity in Azad Kashmir, which cost more than Rs. 50 before the movement, now costs Rs. 3. This movement is still strong, and on 13 May another mass meeting is planned in Muzaffarabad for the first anniversary of the martyrs of the movement who were killed by the Pakistani state.

This movement is also being discussed enthusiastically in Indian-occupied Kashmir and is inspiring another round of mass mobilisations against oppression by the Indian state.

Modi has congratulated himself for resolving the Kashmir issue through his draconian measures. He boasts of having crushed the mass revolutionary movement in Kashmir by repealing a special article of the Indian constitution regarding Kashmir in 2019 and by following this through with the imposition of a curfew and mass arrests, which continued for many years.

A huge presence of armed forces remains in Kashmir but the Modi government is trying to bring back tourists and business. Despite restoring normalcy in Kashmir by bringing a so-called elected (but weak) government, there is still a possibility of another mass movement there, especially inspired by the movement of the Awami Action Committee in Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Using the Kashmir question

Once again, the Kashmir question is being used in this war, by the ruling class of both countries, to attack the working class of their own countries and of Kashmir, and to continue its occupation.

Once again, the Kashmir question is being used in this war, by the ruling class of both countries, to attack the working class of their own countries and of Kashmir, and to continue its occupation / Image: fair use

Only the united action of the working class of both countries can defeat these aims and objectives. Unfortunately, the communist parties and the left in both countries have completely capitulated to the ruling class, and their positions on the issue of Kashmir and on the war are the same as that of the state and of the ruling parties.

In fact, no political party or leader ever talks about overthrowing capitalism and the capitalist state in either India or Pakistan, which are at the root cause of all the wars, national oppression and terrorism that the people of the region are forced to endure.

The partition of the subcontinent and the subsequent building of these capitalist states only benefited the ruling classes of these countries and the imperialist powers of the world. The workers on both sides have continued to live in extreme poverty, to suffer unemployment and misery, while the rich on both sides are living in extreme luxury. The ruling class of both countries have waged several wars against each other and thousands have been killed. If they are not at war, they are preparing for it and building their arsenals at the cost of plunging millions into hunger and poverty.

The situation has reached the point where both countries have nuclear powers and the most advanced weaponry, while hundreds of thousands die every year on both sides due to hunger and lack of medicines. To continue their loot and plunder, these ruling classes use the politics of religious, nationalist and other prejudices to whip up support and to continue propping up this system based on exploitation.

To end these wars, the working class of both countries will have to wage a struggle against their own ruling class and overthrow the capitalist system, which is at the root of all bloodshed and terrorism.

On 20 May, more than 250 million workers and farmers are expected to go on a general strike in India. This is a moment when the leadership of this strike could give a programme of working-class solidarity to end these wars forever and could launch a class war against Modi and his regime. Along with the immediate demands of the workers and farmers, political demands must be added, attacking the exploitation of the bourgeoisie in India and their class interests.

On the other side, Pakistani workers can hold solidarity protests and rallies with the same demands to end this war, and to launch a class war against the ruling class of Pakistan, which is backed by the imperialist powers of the world.

Only a socialist revolution across the subcontinent can offer a way forward for the working class, a way forward that would end these artificial borders dividing India and Pakistan forever and undo the crime of partition. Only a socialist federation of South Asia can ensure the end of wars, poverty, unemployment and misery, and the oppression of Kashmir. This revolution will usher in a period of prosperity and development in the whole region and will be the starting point of a world socialist revolution that will wipe capitalism from the face of the Earth.

Long live the working class unity of India and Pakistan!

No war but class war!

Forward to socialist revolution in India and Pakistan!

Forward to the socialist federation of South Asia!

Workers of the world, unite!
A delegation of Moroccan legal experts took part at the 29th World Law Congress held in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, May 4-6.

The congress, held under the theme New Generations and the Rule of Law: Forging the Future, brought together over 300 experts from 70 countries, who gathered around the Dominican Vice President Raquel Pena and the President of the World Jurist Association (WJA), Javier Cremades.

The Moroccan delegation of jurists, including MP and lawyer Zaina Chahim, and law university professors Zakaria Abouddahab, Abdelaziz Laaroussi, and Hamid Aboulass, defended before the congress the Morocco-proposed autonomy plan for the Sahara that they described as credible, realistic, and conform to international law for a settlement of the long-standing territorial dispute over the Sahara.

The delegation members also highlighted the Kingdoms strategic approach in implementing large-scale reforms in matters of human rights, advanced regionalization, and territorial governance.

The delegation members who participated in several panels, also highlighted the Kingdoms strategic approach in implementing large-scale reforms in matters of human rights, advanced regionalization, and territorial governance, citing as an instance the southern provinces of the Kingdom.

Ms. Chahim emphasized, in this connection, the link between inclusive development and territorial integrity, citing the New Development Model initiated in 2015 in the southern provinces, in line with King Mohammed VIs vision. She also praised the active participation of Sahrawi women in local, regional, and national institutions.

For his part, Zakaria Abouddahab focused on the Sahara issue, stressing that the autonomy plan for the Sahara, submitted to the UN in 2007, represents a form of internal self-determination that respects the principles of the UN Charter and the jurisprudence of the International Court of Justice.

Hamid Aboulass made a presentation on Moroccos advanced regionalization, explaining that it is a lever for local democracy and that the autonomy plan is the natural extension of local democracy in a sensitive geopolitical context.

Abdelaziz Laaroussi defended Moroccos approach to human dignity, as demonstrated by post-2011 reforms, and the social policies implemented in the Southern provinces of the Kingdom, particularly through the regional commissions of the National Human Rights Council (CNDH).

In a changing international environment, Morocco, through its participation in this major international event, is asserting its position by promoting a legal approach to development and defending, on the global stage, its autonomy initiative for the Sahara as a political solution, respecting international law and preserving peoples dignity.

The congress highlighted by the awarding of the 2025 World Peace and Liberty Award to U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, during a ceremony presided over by Dominican President Luis Abinader and King Felipe VI of Spain.
King Mohammed VI, accompanied by Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan, launched on Wednesday in the commune of Ameur (Sale prefecture), the construction works of the Rabat-Sale-Kenitra regions essential reserves platform that will enable authorities to provide swift emergency relief aid in case of disasters.

This project will be built over a 20-hectare site within 12 months. The platform, which will cost over $ 31 million, will include four warehouses (5,000 m each), two shelters for oversized equipment (2,500 m each), a helipad and parking lots.

Each region of the Kingdom will have a similar storage platform of tents, blankets, beds, medicines, foodstuffsin order to respond immediately to disasters (floods, earthquakes, chemical, industrial or radiological hazards).

Twelve regional platforms will be built across the country for a total cost of over $ 758 million, including the costs of construction and equipment. These strategic emergency hubs, to be built over 240 ha, will include 36 warehouses according to each regions population density and respective risks.

These platforms will provide 200,000 multi-purpose tents, associated equipment (cots, mattresses, blankets ); cater for disaster victims with mobile bakeries & kitchens, supply food kits, drinking water and electricity to disaster victims

These emergency hubs will enable the country to advance rescue and response capacities in disaster situation. This mainly involves building up stocks of flood control equipment, as well as equipment for rescue operations in earthquakes, landslides and mudslides, in addition to equipment to combat chemical, industrial and radiological hazards.

Healthcare for disaster victims will be provided through the setting aside 6 field hospitals, each with 50 beds, as part of a first phase, and six more in a second phase, including emergency operating modules and medical service modules for various specialties. This mobile hospital infrastructure will be enhanced by advanced medical posts for triage and first aid at disaster sites.
The Catholic Church in Kenya has moved on May 6 to dispel swirling speculation regarding Cardinal John Njues absence from the forthcoming papal conclave, affirming that his non-participation stems solely from health-related constraints.

The 79-year-old prelate, Kenyas sole cardinal, had earlier remarked to a local newspaper that he had not received an invitation to attend the election of Pope Francis successor, prompting public concern and theological murmurs across the nation. However, a statement issued by Archbishop Philip Anyolo of Nairobi later confirmed that Cardinal Njue had indeed been invited, but was unable to travel to Rome, due to his current medical condition.

As cardinals under the age of 80 convene in the Vatican this week to choose the next pontiff, Cardinal Njues absencealongside Spains Cardinal Antonio Canizaresmarks a rare exception among the 135 eligible electors. The Nairobi Archdioceses clarification underscored the significance of transparency at such a critical juncture, addressing various enquiries that had emerged following Njues comments. While the archbishop offered no specifics regarding the cardinals illness, he appealed for continued prayers, noting Njues long-standing service and his spiritual stature in both Kenyan and global Catholic circles.

Cardinal Njue, who served as Archbishop of Nairobi from 2007 until his retirement in 2021, was elevated to the cardinalate by Pope Benedict XVI the same year of his appointment, becoming only the second Kenyan to hold the title. His absence from the conclave is therefore deeply felt, not only as a national symbol of ecclesiastical leadership, but also amid growing aspirations on the African continent for a more representative papacy. While his seat in the Sistine Chapel will remain vacant this week, his influenceetched in the spiritual fabric of Kenyan Catholicismendures beyond the walls of the Vatican.
Tanzanian opposition figure Tundu Lissu, currently facing treason charges, has been ordered by a court to appear in person for his upcoming hearing on May 19.

This directive follows a hunger strike launched by T. Lissu in protest against the courts decision to conduct proceedings virtuallya move he views as emblematic of the governments efforts to stifle transparency.

Arrested on April 9 after advocating for electoral reforms ahead of the countrys October general elections, Lissu remains behind bars as treason, under Tanzanian law, is a non-bailable offence. His political party, Chadema, has vocally opposed the increasing repression of opposition voices, and tensions have risen further after several of its officials were detained en route to a previous court appearance, only to be later released without charge.

The courts latest order also allows members of the public to attend the upcoming hearing, a shift from the previous session that was conducted behind closed doors under heavy police presence. Lissus legal team, comprising 31 advocates, has raised concerns over restrictions placed on their communication with the accused, stating that prison conditions have curtailed their ability to confer effectively. Lead counsel Peter Kibatala described how they were compelled to converse in Englishan apparent strategy to limit understanding and confidentiality. The legal fraternity and human rights groups continue to call for an open and fair trial process, arguing that procedural integrity is paramount, especially given the politically sensitive nature of the charges.

Lissus plight casts a stark light on the broader climate for opposition politics in Tanzania under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who is seeking a fresh mandate after completing the late President Magufulis term. While the government insists it upholds democratic principles, critics cite a pattern of arrests, restrictive laws, and threats that disproportionately target opposition figures.
International community must jointly safeguard right course of science-based origins tracing

15:26, May 06, 2025 By Zhong Sheng ( People's Daily

On April 30, China's State Council Information Office issued a white paper titled "Covid-19 Prevention, Control and Origins Tracing: China's Actions and Stance."

The document provides a comprehensive account of China's contributions to virus origins tracing and global cooperation in fighting COVID-19, supported by detailed data and scientific evidence.

It also demonstrates China's consistent position as a responsible major country in advocating science-based origins tracing and international cooperation, and firmly opposes the erroneous practice of politicizing public health issues.

The COVID-19 pandemic stands as the fastest-spreading and most extensive global health crisis that humanity has faced in a century. Its containment requires the concerted efforts of all countries.

From the onset of the pandemic, the collective effort of the whole Chinese nation enabled China to emerge victorious from the crisis - a historic feat for a populous nation like China. While unrelenting in its domestic efforts to contain the virus, China has unreservedly shared its experience to facilitate global pandemic control, done all it could for international anti-epidemic cooperation, fulfilled its international responsibilities, and demonstrated its ethical commitment as a major country.

Tracing the origins of the virus is a serious scientific issue. China has always applied a science-based approach to the task of tracing the virus origins, actively engaging with the World Health Organization (WHO) in communication and cooperation.

At the invitation of China, the WHO sent two international expert missions to the country to carry out a joint study into the origins of the virus in 2020 and 2021 respectively. Their findings were compiled into a joint study report that was released globally. With its rigorous and scientifically sound conclusions, the report earned endorsements from both the international community and the scientific community.

China has actively participated in global virus origins-tracing efforts with the greatest sincerity. Through systematic epidemiological investigations, molecular tracing, animal host screening, and studies on cold-chain transmission, the possibility of Wuhan being the natural origin of SARS-CoV-2 was scientifically ruled out. These efforts have provided the global scientific community with critical empirical evidence and established a research paradigm for future studies.

To date, no findings have contradicted the conclusions of the "WHO-convened Global Study of Origins of SARS-CoV-2: China Part - Joint WHO-China Study."

The international community widely acknowledges that the Chinese side has fully, timely and effectively fulfilled the obligations prescribed by the International Health Regulations through prompt and extensive actions rarely seen anywhere in the world.

Addressing the global COVID-19 pandemic is a serious scientific issue that bears on the health and wellbeing of all humanity.

Numerous studies have shown that SARS-CoV-2 originated outside China. Research and analysis conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) and the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) indicate that prior to the outbreak in Wuhan, multiple regions in the U.S. recorded positive SARS-CoV-2 test results and other evidence of the virus. A thorough and in-depth investigation into the origins of the virus should be conducted in the U.S.

However, instead of addressing its own inadequate pandemic response, the U.S. government has deliberately suppressed and concealed its findings and evidence, making China the primary scapegoat for its own mismanaged COVID-19 response. This selective blindness and politicization of a scientific issue have seriously impeded efforts to trace the virus origins and undermined the global public health system.

Infectious diseases are the common enemy of humanity. The international community must jointly safeguard the right course of science-based origins tracing. To prevent new infectious diseases in the future, the U.S., as a major country, cannot continue to turn a deaf ear to the numerous questions over its conduct. It must promptly respond to the legitimate concerns of the international community, proactively share with the WHO data on its early suspected cases, and provide a responsible account to the global public.

(Zhong Sheng is a pen name often used by People's Daily to express its views on foreign policy and international affairs.)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Du Mingming)
In a move that could reshape global migration diplomacy, Rwanda has confirmed that it is in preliminary talks with the United States to receive migrants deported from American territory.

Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe disclosed on May 6 the development on national television, affirming that while no agreement has been formalized, dialogue between Kigali and Washington is indeed underway.

The discussions, still in nascent stages, reflect the U.S. administrations intensified efforts under President Donald Trump to forge third-country resettlement deals  a strategy aimed at deterring illegal border crossings and complicating any future attempts at re-entry. The U.S. State Department, while declining to provide granular details, acknowledged the strategic imperative of securing such international partnerships in support of Americas border security priorities.

Rwanda, no stranger to migration arrangements, notably signed a controversial asylum agreement with the United Kingdom in 2022. Officials say its institutional readiness and past experience place it in a favorable position to consider similar frameworks. With its geographic distance from North America and relatively stable governance, Rwanda is emerging as a potential hub in the evolving architecture of global deportation logistics.

Last month, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio underscored the administrations pursuit of nations willing to cooperate in hosting non-citizen deportees, even when those individuals have no prior ties to the host country. The goal, according to Rubio, is to disincentivize irregular migration through far-reaching and less reversible relocation options.

Though still exploratory, this dialogue between Washington and Kigali marks a bold inflection point in bilateral cooperation  one that entwines geopolitics, sovereignty, and the ethics of global migration governance.
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: Fred Zwicky, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The most effective way to harness the power of artificial intelligence when screening for breast cancer may be through collaboration with human radiologistsnot by wholesale replacing them, says new research co-written by a University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign expert in the intersection of health care and technology.

The study finds that a "delegation" strategywhere AI helps triage low-risk mammograms and flags higher-risk cases for closer inspection by human radiologistscould reduce screening costs by as much as 30% without compromising patient safety.

The findings could help shape how hospitals and clinics integrate AI into their diagnostic workflows amid a growing demand for early breast cancer detection and a shortage of radiologists, said Mehmet Eren Ahsen, a professor of business administration and Deloitte Scholar at Illinois.

"We often hear the question: Can AI replace this or that profession?" Ahsen said. "In this case, our research shows that the answer is 'Not exactly, but it can certainly help.' We found that the real value of AI comes not from replacing humans, but from helping them via strategic task-sharing."

The study, which was published in the journal Nature Communications, was co-written by Mehmet U. S. Ayvaci and Radha Mookerjee of the University of Texas at Dallas; and Gustavo Stolovitzky of the NYU Grossman School of Medicine and NYU Langone Health.

The researchers developed a decision model to compare three decision-making strategies in breast cancer screening: an expert-alone strategythe current clinical norm in which radiologists read every mammogram; an automation strategy, in which AI assessed all mammograms without human oversight; and a delegation strategy, in which AI performed an initial screening and referred ambiguous or high-risk cases to radiologists.

The model accounted for a wide range of costs, including implementation, radiologist time, follow-up procedures and potential litigation. It evaluated outcomes using real-world data from a global AI crowdsourcing challenge for mammography, which was sponsored as part of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy's Cancer Moonshot initiative of 201617.

The researchers found that the delegation model outperformed both the full automation and the expert-alone approaches, yielding up to 30.1% in cost savings, according to the paper.

While the idea of fully automating radiological tasks may seem appealing from an efficiency standpoint, the study cautions that current AI systems still fall short of replacing human judgment in complex or borderline cases.

"AI is excellent at identifying low-risk mammograms that are relatively straightforward and easy to interpret," said Ahsen, also the Health Innovation Professor at the Carle Illinois College of Medicine. "But for high-risk or ambiguous cases, radiologists still outperform AI. The delegation strategy leverages this strength: AI streamlines the workload, and humans focus on the toughest cases."

With nearly 40 million mammograms performed annually in the U.S. alone, breast cancer screening is a critical public health tool. Yet the process is time-intensive and costly, in both labor and follow-up procedures triggered by false positives. When cancers are missed, the resulting false negatives can lead to significant harm for patients and health care providers, Ahsen said.

Three optimal strategy regionsexpert-alone, delegation, and automationbased on the relative performance of AI and the radiologist. The x-axis represents the AUC of AI algorithm performance, while the y-axis represents the radiologists true positive rate. Panel (a) highlights how lower AI and litigation costs impact the preference of three strategies. Using Panel (a) as a benchmark, Panel (b) illustrates how higher algorithm costs shift strategy preferences, while Panel (c) examines the combined impact of increased algorithm and litigation costs on strategy selection. Source data are provided as a Source Data file. Credit: Nature Communications (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-57409-1

"One of the issues in mammography is, because of the sheer number of screenings performed, that it generates so many false positives and false negatives," Ahsen said. "If you have a 10% false positive rate out of 40 million mammograms per year, that's four million women who are being recalled to the hospital for more appointments, screenings and tests, and potentially biopsies."

That whole process only increases stress and anxiety for the patient, Ahsen said.

"It's a nightmare scenario," he said. "Follow-up appointments often take weeks, leaving patients with a black cloud hanging over their heads. It's a very stressful time for them."

With AI and the delegation model, it's possible that health care providers could streamline the process.

"You get screened, AI sees something it doesn't like and immediately flags you for follow-up, all while you're still at the hospital," Ahsen said. "It has the potential to be that much more efficient of a workflow."

The research also raises broader questions about how AI should be implemented and regulated in medicine.

"The delegation strategy works best when breast cancer prevalence is either low or moderate," Ahsen said. "In high-prevalence populations, a greater reliance on human experts may still be warranted. But an AI-heavy strategy might also work well in situations where there aren't a lot of radiologistsin developing countries, for example."

Another potential landmine involves legal liability. If AI systems are held to stricter liability standards than human clinicians, then "health care organizations may shy away from automation strategies involving AI, even when they are cost-effective," Ahsen said.

The findings are potentially applicable to other areas of medicine such as pathology and dermatology, where diagnostic accuracy is critical, but AI is potentially able to improve workflow efficiency.

With the infinite work capacity of AI, "we can use it 24/7, and it doesn't need to take a coffee break," Ahsen said. "AI is only going to continue to make inroads into health care, and our framework can guide hospitals, insurers, policymakers and health care practitioners in making evidence-based decisions about AI integration.

"We're not just interrogating what AI can dowe're asking if it should do it, and when, how and under what conditions it should be deployed as a tool to help humans."

More information: Mehmet Eren Ahsen et al, Economics of AI and human task sharing for decision making in screening mammography, Nature Communications (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-57409-1 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:

In the VR Lab, researchers tested how our brain organises action plans. Credit: MPI CBS

The human capacity to develop a diverse and highly complex repertoire of action plans is truly remarkable. Many of our behaviors are rooted in associations between actions and their outcomes, which we form and leverage flexibly.

For instance, the same keypress action can lead to different outcomes depending on whether it's performed on a computer keyboard, a radio, or another context. We often have multiple alternative choices, so that action selection requires comparing across available action-outcomes, which is a non-trivial and taxing problem.

How are the relations between different action plans organized and structured in the brain to support our rich behavioral repertoire? Irina Barnaveli, Christian Doeller together with Simone Vigano and Daniel Reznik from MPI CBS and with Patrick Haggard from University College London, argue in their recent study that the brain organizes action-outcome associations in a cognitive map-like structure.

The researchers further demonstrate in their study, published in Nature Communications, that these cognitive maps, located in the hippocampal system, communicate with the motor system during action evaluation, suggesting that goal-directed action planning skills rely on multiple neural systems.

"How do we compare the many action plans stored in memory and select the most appropriate one? We propose that these action-outcome associations could be organized in a cognitive map within the hippocampal system, potentially supporting efficient action selection within the rich human behavioral repertoire," explains Barnaveli, first author of the study.

"The hippocampus is a part of the brain involved in forming memories and navigating in space. Navigation relies heavily on the creation of maps of space. Our study suggests that we create similar maps for organizing and selecting action plans, linking perception to action."

In the immersive virtual reality, participants performed a motor interaction task, in which they learned how to control the flying and catching of a virtual ball using different actions. Later, they compared learned actions while their brain activity was monitored using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

The scientists found patterns of brain activity that are typically interpreted as signatures of "cognitive mapping," suggesting that the brain abstracts and organizes action plans in a map-like representation. This map is also evident from participants' behavior: The closer the actions are within the hypothesized map, the more similar they are perceived by the participants. Crucially, this cognitive map in the hippocampal system exchanges information with the motor system to relate multiple action plans to each other.

"The map-like representations might therefore represent how humans interact with their environment in a very general sense, well beyond the specific case of spatial navigation. By supporting action selection, cognitive maps could contribute to optimizing the acquisition and exploitation of a wide repertoire of action plans.

"This discovery further challenges the classical distinction between declarative and procedural memory, suggesting that goal-directed actions rely on multiple neural systems that integrate action generation, motor planning, and memory," concludes Christian Doeller, last author of the study.

More information: Irina Barnaveli et al, Hippocampal-entorhinal cognitive maps and cortical motor system represent action plans and their outcomes, Nature Communications (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-59153-y 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:

Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

A University of California, Riverside-led research team has adapted an intervention for childhood obesity prevention to better serve Latina mothers, non-maternal caregivers, and families of low-income backgrounds in Inland Southern California.

The study, spearheaded by medical anthropologist Ann Cheney, could make significant contributions to public health by ensuring that early childhood obesity prevention strategies begin in infancy with infant feeding and are culturally and linguistically relevant for immigrant communities.

The work is published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior.

The intervention, originally known as Healthy Beginnings, was developed in Australia to address infant feeding practices among low-income mothers. Cheney's team adapted this intervention to meet the unique needs of Latina mothers and their trusted caregivers. By incorporating the feedback of mothers and caregivers, the researchers identified key cultural meanings and family dynamics to shape the intervention's delivery.

"We knew for this intervention to be effective, it had to align with the cultural values and lived experiences of the families it aimed to serve," said Cheney, an associate professor of social medicine, population, and public health in the School of Medicine.

"Latina mothers and other senior women, like grandmothers, are central to the health and well-being of their families. We therefore needed to ensure that the intervention's design reflected their beliefs, practices, and the social and emotional context of their lives. Our study shows that culturally sensitive approaches are crucial for fostering trust, engagement, and sustainable health behaviors."

The research involved Inland Southern California mothers of infants aged four to six months, as well as their caregivers and members of an intervention design and development group. The researchers conducted qualitative interviews and surveys from spring 2021 to winter 2022 to gather data that allowed for adaptations in the intervention's content and delivery methods.

Changes included the incorporation of cultural meanings around infant feeding, maternal mental health, and feeding practices, as well as adjustments to intervention delivery methods. Other changes included more frequent sessions, reduced time per session, and the involvement of community health workers to facilitate delivery.

Results from the study highlighted the importance of involving non-maternal caregivers in the adaptation process.

"These caregivers, who play a pivotal role in the daily lives of children, helped shape a program that resonates with the community, ensuring that the intervention is not only effective but also culturally and linguistically appropriate," Cheney said.

Cheney explained that the success of the project underscores the need for public health interventions to consider the broader ecological and social contexts in which families live.

"When we involve families, especially non-maternal caregivers, in the adaptation of programs, we create interventions that have a greater chance of success and sustainability," she said. "This research offers a valuable model for other communities facing similar challenges."

According to Cheney, the study emphasizes the importance of engaging culturally diverse, historically marginalized communities in public health research. Tailored interventions that respect local values enhance acceptance and sustainability of health behaviors, benefiting families and communities, she said.

"The Healthy Beginnings intervention, adapted for Southern California's Latinx population, serves as a model for future obesity interventions in diverse communities in the United States," Cheney added.

More information: Ann Cheney et al, Adapting an Evidence-Based Infant Feeding and Nutrition Program to Promote Healthy Growth and Development in Latinx Families of Low Income, Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2025.02.007 Journal information: Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior
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: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

What does a person with an eating disorder look like? The picture may not be as clear-cut as many people think. Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis led a study that revealed an important lesson: Eating disorders don't discriminate.

"There's been a perception that eating disorders mostly affect thin, white women," said Ellen Fitzsimmons-Craft, an associate professor of psychological and brain sciences. "Our study of college students dispels that myth."

The findings are published in the International Journal of Eating Disorders.

The study surveyed 29,951 students from 26 colleges and universities, including WashU. Two-thirds of respondents were female. The students were asked to answer a series of questions about their health, including their mental health and their attitudes toward food and body image.

Thirteen percent of respondents showed signs of eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorderan unprecedented insight into the magnitude of the crisis on campus.

Importantly, the risk of eating disorders was relatively similar for white, Black, Asian, and Latino students.

"No matter their racial or ethnic background, these students all live in a culture that encourages or expects individuals to conform to certain body ideals," said Fitzsimmons-Craft, also an associate professor of psychiatry at the Medical School. "These findings show that eating disorders can happen to anyone."

Co-authors include Carli Howe, a research coordinator with the Center for Healthy Weight and Wellness; Mia Kouveliotes, an undergraduate studying global health and environment; Zhaoyi Pan, Lawrence Monocello, and Marie-Laure Firebaugh from the Department of Psychiatry in the School of Medicine; and Denise Wilfley, a professor of psychological and brain sciences and of medicine, pediatrics, and psychiatry in the School of Medicine.

The most common eating disorders found in the study were bulimia nervosa, a condition marked by regular bouts of binge eating followed by self-induced vomiting or purging, and binge eating disorder, in which a person engages in regular binge eating (but without the accompanying behaviors seen in bulimia nervosa), often in response to negative emotions, like feeling upset or stressed. Combined, those disorders were seen in 13% to 18% of women (depending on race) and 10% to 12% of men.

Anorexia nervosa, a condition that causes people to severely limit food intake out of an intense fear of gaining weight, was much less common, affecting 2% to 4% of women and less than 1% of men.

There were some minor differences between racial groups. Asian women, for example, were more likely than other women to show signs of anorexia nervosa, while Hispanic women were most likely to show signs of bulimia nervosa or binge eating disorder. Importantly, while the big picture looked similar for everyone, where differences did emerge, students from historically underrepresented racial and ethnic groups often had a higher prevalence, dismantling the stereotype that eating disorders mostly affect white women.

Anorexia nervosa can have noticeable symptoms, but other, more common types of eating disorders can be completely hidden from others, even close friends and family, Fitzsimmons-Craft said.

"You would never know if someone had bulimia nervosa or a binge eating disorder based just on how they looked," she said. "Even doctors can miss these problems, especially if the person doesn't fit the stereotype."

The study found that eating disorders often go hand in hand with other psychological problems. For example, up to 78% of women and 68% of men with eating disorders also showed signs of major depressive disorder.

"In the past, health professionals would often put eating disorders and other psychological problems in completely different silos," Fitzsimmons-Craft said. "That approach caused a lot of damage."

The new findings underscore the need for counselors, doctors, and others to ask about eating habits when treating someone for depression, anxiety, alcohol use disorder, or another mental health concern, Fitzsimmons-Craft said. "These are treatable problems, but early identification is really the key."

Fitzsimmons-Craft and Wilfley are working to provide resources for people with eating disorders through Body U, an online program. The program, available to all adults in Missouri, provides individuals with access to online screening for disordered eating and then offers individuals access to free, tailored online programs to meet their needs. When appropriate, users will receive referrals to health providers.

Body U is now available in every public university in Missouri through close partnerships with all 13 public universities in the state, a level of outreach and programming to address eating disorders unmatched by any other state in the country. Fitzsimmons-Craft and Wilfley have also brought Body U to six public school districts and two private schools serving middle and high school students in Missouri, providing an important resource for young people at a time when eating disorders often first take hold.

"We're going to stay committed to these efforts," Fitzsimmons-Craft said. "We want awareness about eating disorders to become part of the culture, and we want widespread access to screening, prevention, and treatment to become the norm, not the exception."

More information: Carli P. Howe et al, Examining Prevalence and Presentations of Eating Disorders Across Racial/Ethnic Groups in a National, PopulationBased Sample of College Students, International Journal of Eating Disorders (2025). DOI: 10.1002/eat.24427 Journal information: International Journal of Eating Disorders
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:

The potential mechanism after blocking LSD1 inhibits novel CDK7 phospho-protein networks and STAT3 signaling ultimately promotes CD8+ T cell infiltration and activation by relieving CTLA4-mediated immunosuppression. Credit: Chinese Academy of Sciences

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, and early detection is key to improving patient outcomes. However, the mechanisms driving the transition from preneoplastic lesions to full-blown cancer are not well understood. Previous research has primarily targeted advanced OSCC, overlooking the early stages of tumor progression.

A recent study published in the International Journal of Oral Science focuses on lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1), an epigenetic regulator that plays a significant role in OSCC development. By unraveling the molecular pathways through which LSD1 influences the tumor microenvironment, the study offers crucial insights into early-stage cancer biology and paves the way for innovative treatment strategies targeting this epigenetic modifier.

The study uncovers the pivotal role of LSD1 in the progression of oral cancer. The multidisciplinary research from Manish Bais's laboratory at Boston University and the University of Florida, Drs. Sahay and Takada, found that inhibiting LSD1, either through genetic modifications or the pharmacological agent SP2509, reversed OSCC preneoplasia and enhanced immune cell infiltration.

These findings not only deepen our understanding of OSCC biology but also suggest that LSD1 inhibition could serve as a promising therapeutic strategy to prevent the progression of OSCC from preneoplastic stages, potentially transforming early-stage oral cancer treatment.

The study demonstrates that LSD1, an epigenetic regulator, plays a central role in the development of OSCC by controlling critical signaling pathways such as STAT3 and CDK7. The research team employed both genetic knockout models and pharmacological agents like SP2509 to inhibit LSD1 activity, revealing that this intervention effectively reversed the progression of OSCC preneoplasia in murine and feline models.

Key observations included a reduction in tumor growth, the restoration of immune function through enhanced CD8+ T cell infiltration, and decreased levels of the immunosuppressive CTLA4 protein. In a novel veterinary clinical trial, the researchers found that Seclidemstat, a clinical candidate for LSD1 inhibition, was both safe and effective in inhibiting STAT3 signaling, further validating the translational potential of LSD1-targeted therapies. This study's findings underscore the importance of epigenetic regulation in OSCC progression and highlight the therapeutic potential of LSD1 inhibitors in preventing the transition from preneoplastic lesions to malignant tumors.

"Understanding how epigenetic regulators like LSD1 drive the progression of oral cancer which has been evaluated over several years in our lab, offers us new opportunities to intervene at a much earlier stage," said Dr. Manish Bais, lead senior author of the study.

"Our findings demonstrate that targeting LSD1 not only halts tumor growth but also restores critical immune responses that can enhance anti-tumor immunity against cancer. These results open up exciting possibilities for treating preneoplasia before it becomes OSCC and could ultimately improve patient survival rates."

The implications of this study are far-reaching, as inhibiting LSD1 could offer a new avenue for the treatment of OSCC. By targeting the early stages of tumor progression, LSD1 inhibitors, such as Seclidemstat, could provide a means to prevent OSCC before it becomes invasive, offering a significant breakthrough in early-stage cancer management.

Additionally, the study suggests that combining LSD1 inhibition with existing immunotherapies could enhance immune responses and overcome tumor-induced immunosuppression. As clinical trials continue to investigate these therapies, LSD1 inhibition has the potential to reshape the treatment landscape for OSCC and other cancers driven by similar epigenetic mechanisms.

More information: Amit Kumar Chakraborty et al, Lysine-specific demethylase 1 controls key OSCC preneoplasia inducer STAT3 through CDK7 phosphorylation during oncogenic progression and immunosuppression, International Journal of Oral Science (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41368-025-00363-x
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:

Morphologic Schistosoma spp. identification from 2 patients feces samples in an investigation of unexpected zoonotic and hybrid schistosome egg excretion patterns, Malawi, 2024. Credit: Emerging Infectious Diseases (2025). DOI: 10.3201/eid3105.241757

Researchers from the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) and Malawi have uncovered new evidence of zoonotic hybrid schistosome species infecting humans, raising concerns about schistosomiasis diagnosis and prevalence.

The study, published in the CDC's Emerging Infectious Diseases, describes new cases of mixed intestinal and urogenital schistosomiasis in patients from Mangochi District, Malawi. Although the individuals tested positive for human urogenital schistosomiasis using standard urine diagnostic tests, their fecal samples also revealed many hybrid parasite eggs.

The eggs came from offspring of Schistosoma haematobium and S. mattheei, a livestock parasite, as well as evidence that S. mattheei had mixed with S. mansoni, the species normally associated with human intestinal infection.

These findings offer new insight into the growing complexity of schistosomiasis transmission where environmental changes and overlapping snail habitats have created conditions for cross-species hybridization. They also call into question current diagnostics regimes advised by the World Health Organization (WHO) which rely on urine samples. The zoonotic hybrid species eggs were predominantly found in fecal samples, suggesting intestinal infections could be missed.

Angus O'Ferrall, PhD candidate and lead author of the study, said, "WHO recommends using urine dipsticks to map intestinal disease, but the discovery of zoonotic and hybrid eggs in human intestinal tracts suggests that approach might be too narrow, and we may be missing hybrid intestinal infections."

"Our findings point to the need for more comprehensive sampling strategies and expansion of testing recommendations in areas where humans and livestock share water."

While hybridization between schistosome species has been reported previously, this is the first evidence of S. haematobium group hybrids contributing to intestinal infection in humans.

The study calls for expanded surveillance in co-endemic areas, including routine examination of fecal samples alongside urine, and the deployment of molecular tools capable of identifying hybrid species. These steps are critical for ensuring accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Professor Russell Stothard, head of the HUGS Project (Hybridisation in UroGenital Schistosomiasis) at LSTM, added, "As we deepen our understanding of schistosome genomics, we must also adapt our field tools and public health strategies accordingly. Hybrid parasites are not just a scientific curiosity, they have real implications for control programs, especially in settings with human-animal contact."

The study's authors stress the need for further research to determine the prevalence of zoonotic and hybrid schistosomes in Malawi and beyond, and to explore their impact on disease burden and control efforts.
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: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

A new study has found that collegiate recovery programs with multiple sources of funding serve twice as many students as programs with only one source of funding. These programs, particularly those that offer support groups for students in all stages and types of recovery, can serve as a lifeline during the challenging college experience.

As colleges and universities continue to prioritize student mental health and well-being, collegiate recovery programs (CRPs) are emerging as a vital component of these efforts for students recovering from substance-use disorders and behavioral addictions. The study, led by a Boston University School of Public Health (BUSPH) researcher, presents a foundational assessment of CRPs' structure and programming, lending insight into how academic institutions can strengthen and sustain these chronically underfunded, but critically needed, programs.

The study is the first to acquire this data through the lens of program directors, who are better positioned than students to identify CRPs' operational and funding needs.

Published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, the study revealed important differences in the programs' reach, based on the number of their funding sources; CRPs that had multiple funding sources served twice as many students as CRPs that relied on only a single source. These programs were also more likely to provide dedicated space and relapse management support to students.

All Recovery meetings, which are inclusive support groups open to people exploring different forms of recovery and in all stages of the recovery process, were the most common type of mutual-aid support groups in CRPs.

The finding that All Recovery meetings were the most common support group on college campuses came as a surprise to the researchers, who were expecting to see a greater proportion of traditional support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). All Recovery meetings lack a centralized structure, and there is little data about their effectiveness, but this new data suggests that this alternative form of support is an effective one for providing a welcoming space for students on different recovery journeys to connect and heal together as they navigate their shared college experience.

"As a nation, we are looking for ways to have an impact on the addiction crisis in the US," says study lead and corresponding author Dr. Noel Vest, assistant professor of community health sciences at BUSPH.

"Collegiate recovery programs offer one ray of hope by offering multiple resources and opportunities to combat this issue in an environment where excessive alcohol and drug use are normalized and pervasive. The steady presence of CRPs not only assists students in recovery during their time in college, it reduces the stigmas associated with recovery in college that might otherwise deter these students from seeking help."

Without multiple streams of funding, these programs may not withstand times of financial uncertainty, he says.

"CRPs that have to rely on a single source of funding may be in tenuous positions if that funding dissolves," Dr. Vest says. "Our findings really underscore the need for diversified and sustainable funding for these programs."

For the study, Dr. Vest and colleagues administered a survey to 70 CRP directors across the US and Canada, asking them to share details about their programs, including physical features of their sites on campus, as well as policy and program offerings, and funding sources. CRPs provide a variety of support services, including physical gathering spaces, academic assistance, peer mentoring, and substance-free housing.

The program directors were predominantly non-Hispanic, white, and female, and 15% represented gender and sexual minorities. The highest number of directors were from colleges or universities in Pennsylvania, Virginia, and North Carolina.

CRPs with two or more funding sources had more drop-in centers than CRPs with only one funding source (although the team did not observe a difference in staff size or level of peer mentorship), as well as more policies in place to manage students who relapsed and a greater proportion of recovery housing.

About 67% of program directors reported that their CRP provided All Recovery meetings. All Recovery meetings meet students where they arephysically, emotionally, and behaviorallyand aim to reduce the negative consequences of addiction and mental health through the lens of the student experience rather than focusing on total abstinence from substance use.

With support and advocacy from the Association of Recovery in Higher Education, CRPs have surged in popularity, with nearly 150 programs operating on college campuses across the country. It is critical that these programs receive adequate funding to address the needs of the estimated 650,000 college students in recovery.

The researchers hope the new findings inform state and federal policies that promote student health and enable college students to have reliable and consistent access to a variety of recovery servicesfor the benefit of the students, as well as their college campus and the greater community. In Massachusetts, for example, a proposed bill aims to provide housing, counseling, mentoring, peer support, and overdose training to public colleges and universities.

"As a marginalized group with histories of trauma, college students in recovery are struggling in many different ways and put in a lot of work to get to college," Dr. Vest says. "They put in a lot of work to get to college, and collegiate recovery programs provide the space and tools for success once they arrive."

More information: Noel Vest et al, Characterizing Collegiate Recovery Programs in the US and Canada: A Survey of Program Directors, Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs (2024). DOI: 10.15288/jsad.24-00207 Journal information: Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs
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:

The Family Heart Foundation has published a study, Lipoprotein(a) and Recurrent Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Events: the US Family Heart Database. Credit: Family Heart Foundation

The Family Heart Foundation, a leading research and advocacy organization focused on the role of lipids in cardiovascular disease and prevention, today announced results from the largest study ever conducted of people living with cardiovascular disease who have a confirmed measurement of lipoprotein(a), also known as Lp(a).

Results showing that any increase in levels of Lp(a) is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events including heart attack and stroke were presented today at the European Atherosclerosis Society Congress in Glasgow, Scotland, and were simultaneously published in the European Heart Journal.

"While previous smaller studies have shown that the risk of cardiovascular events can increase within certain ranges of Lp(a), this is the first study to show that the risks of cardiovascular events including heart attack, stroke and cardiac surgeries continue to increase across all ascending levels of Lp(a) and that there is no indication that the risk plateaus," said Katherine Wilemon, founder and chief executive officer of the Family Heart Foundation.

"The US has lagged behind many other countries in recommending that adults complete a simple blood test to measure Lp(a). This study strongly confirms the importance of considering Lp(a) levels among other risk factors when determining an individual's risk of future heart attacks and strokes."

The study followed the health histories of a diverse population of 273,770 US individuals with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) for a median 5.4 years to determine whether they had another cardiovascular event such as myocardial infarction or ischemic stroke, or a procedure such as percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary artery bypass graft.

Within the study population overall, about 33% had low levels of Lp(a) (<15 nmol/L), 33% had moderate levels (1579 nmol/L), 15% had moderate-to-high levels (80179 nmol/L), 10% had levels considered high (180299 nmol/L) and 5% had levels considered very high (300 nmol/L).

This study is the first to show that the risk of a subsequent cardiovascular event rises continually as lipoprotein(a) increases from any level. The study also shows that women and Black individuals are more likely to have elevated Lp(a) levels.

"Among the many important findings in this study, we now know that in people living with cardiovascular disease every nmol/L of Lp(a) confers increased risk of a subsequent cardiovascular event. This is a meaningful advancement in our understanding of the impact of Lp(a) on one's health," said Diane MacDougall, vice president, science and research, Family Heart Foundation, and first author of the study.

"The results further show that the risk increases regardless of what type of cardiovascular disease individuals had initially (in the heart, brain or legs), whether or not they also had diabetes, or their sex or race/ethnicity. The higher the Lp(a) level, the more likely people living with ASCVD are to have another cardiovascular event."

While several investigational drugs are undergoing late-stage testing, currently no drugs are approved to help reduce levels of Lp(a). This study included an analysis to determine whether efforts to manage LDL-C in people with high Lp(a) could be beneficial.

Results showed that among people with ASCVD and Lp(a) levels 180 nmol/L, the risk of having another cardiovascular event appears to be diminished by using high impact LDL-C lowering drugs such as high dose statin and PCSK9 inhibitors compared with using lower impact LDL-C lowering drugs or using no drugs.

More information: Diane E MacDougall et al, Lipoprotein(a) and recurrent atherosclerotic cardiovascular events: the US Family Heart Database, European Heart Journal (2025). DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehaf297 Journal information: European Heart Journal

Provided by Family Heart Foundation
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: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

A drug that gained international attention for its controversial off-label use during the COVID-19 pandemic could soon be available in North Carolina without a prescription.

House Bill 618, titled the "Ivermectin Access Act," would require the state to issue a standing order by Oct. 1 allowing licensed pharmacists to dispense ivermectin for human use without a doctor's prescription or consultation. The bill would also grant civil and criminal immunity to pharmacists who dispense the drug under the order. It would take effect immediately if signed into law.

The bill passed the judiciary and rules committees on May 6th, indicating it's likely to be on the House floor before the deadline of Thursday for most bills to pass one chamber.

Rep. Jonathan Almond, a Cabarrus County Republican and primary sponsor of the bill, said during a judiciary committee hearing on Tuesday that ivermectin is often used without a prescription and should be more accessible.

It's a "safe, affordable drug with minimal side effects," Almond said, adding that other medicationssuch as Narcan have made the move from prescription-only to over-the-counter.

This is "really about access, giving folks the ability to get a commonly used medication at a relatively low cost," he said. Almond emphasized that ivermectin would not be stocked on store shelves but would be dispensed only with pharmacist approval.

Almond said three statesIdaho, Arkansas and Tennesseehave already enacted similar laws, and 14 others have bills moving through the legislative process.

Discovered in Japan in 1970, ivermectin was first developed as a veterinary drug to treat parasites. It was later approved for human use for certain parasitic infections and skin conditions like rosacea.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it was promoted by some as an alternative treatment, leading to public confusion and warnings from health agencies.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved ivermectin for preventing or treating COVID-19. While early lab studies showed high concentrations of the drug could affect the virus, those results didn't translate to success in rigorous clinical trials, including those published in The New England Journal of Medicine.

The FDA says no clinical trial data supports its effectiveness against the virus. The agency has also warned against using veterinary formulations in humans, citing untested ingredients and the danger of incorrect dosing.

Reported side effects of ivermectin include muscle pain, joint stiffness and swollen lymph nodes. Less common but more serious reactions include black, tarry stools, mouth ulcers, and seizures.

Rep. Marcia Morey, a Durham Democrat, criticized the bill during the committee meeting, citing concerns over safety and the lack of federal approval.

"There is a risk of multiple side effects. Dosage is very important," Morey said. "And I just find it increduloushere we are in Judiciary 3 substituting our judgment for medical doctors and the FDA. I have not heard a reason why we're thinking our judgment is superior to medical professionals.'"

Rep. Keith Kidwell, a Chocowinity Republican and a member of the House Freedom Caucus, spoke in support of the bill, saying he knew "a number of people personally who took ivermectin during COVID and felt immediate relief."

Three people also spoke in favor of the bill during a Tuesday committee meeting. Two said they took ivermectin to treat COVID-19.

One said she received the drug from a holistic practitioner after her insurance would not cover it.

Another said she traveled out of state to obtain ivermectin and also bought a veterinary liquid version to use as a preventive measure before international travel. She said she miscalculated the dosage, overdosed, and experienced sensory issues for several hours.

2025 The Charlotte Observer. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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: CC0 Public Domain

A bill limiting when minors can consent to medical treatment without parental involvement passed the North Carolina House, with every Republican who voted supporting it and all but four Democrats who voted opposing it.

Rep. Jennifer Balkcom, a Hendersonville Republican, said the bill upheld the "essential role of parents in a child's life, especially when it comes to medical decisions."

"In almost every area of a child's life, we assume the parents are responsible for their child," Balkcom said.

"But somehow, when it comes to emotional health, STDs and drug or alcohol abuse, we still have parents who have no role. That doesn't make any sense," she said.

House Bill 519, titled the "Parents' Medical Bill of Rights," would require health care providers to obtain parental consent before treating a minor in most cases. That includes care related to mental health, substance use and sexually transmitted infectionsareas where current law allows some minors to seek treatment confidentially.

The bill includes exceptions for medical emergencies, abuse or neglect cases, and when a parent or guardian can't be located. It also expands parents' rights to access medical records, narrowing when information can be withheld.

Minors would still be able to consent on their own for treatment for a pregnancy, excluding for abortions. They would also be able to consent to treatment for sexually transmitted diseases that can be treated with a prescription for a duration of 10 days or less.

After the bill passed, House Speaker Destin Hall said it was crafted with input from the medical community to balance concerns about minors in abusive situations with parents' rights to be involved in their children's medical care.

But Hall emphasized that the default should be parental involvement.

"Unless there's some sort of abuse from a parent, a parent really has a right to know at the end of the day what sort of medical decisions are being made for their child," he said.

Rep. Carla Cunningham, of Charlotte, was one of the four Democrats who voted in favor of the bill. She was joined by Democratic Reps. Abe Jones, Garland Pierce and Amos Quick.

"This might be the hardest bill I'll ever have to vote on because of my history with my own child who is involved with (the) long-term mental health and behavioral health" population, Cunningham said.

When her son was a teen, she said, she was blocked from obtaining records or directing care for his treatment until he was adjudicated as incompetent.

"This is hard, but if the patient or your son or your daughter is not getting the proper treatment, then you need to know that," she said. "And there's a lot of people that don't know how to advocate and do that," she said.

The bill faced pushback from other Democrats, who said it would limit access to critical care for minors.

Rep. Julie Von Haefen, an Apex Democrat, said the bill would create a "chilling effect on minors seeking out treatment."

"It takes a village to raise a child," Von Haefen said. "Parents cannot do it alone. Kids need other adults that they can talk to and who they can trust. Doctors are those trusted adults that I would want my own kids to be able to talk to."

Rep. Deb Butler, a Wilmington Democrat, said not all parents are accepting of the care their child needs.

"Some parents are loving and supportive, but others are abusive, absent or deeply opposed to the care their child may need, whether it's therapy, birth control, gender-affirming treatment," Butler said.

"It's about politics, and our kids deserve better than being used as pawns," she said.

Rep. Dean Arp, a Republican who represents Union County, agreed that children shouldn't be "used as pawns," but his statement contradicted Butler's reasoning.

"Children should not be used as pawns to further a liberal agenda that further separates the children from their parents," Arp said.

Jillian Riley, director of public affairs for Planned Parenthood South Atlantic in North Carolina, said the current law "provides an opportunity for vulnerable young people to speak privately with a trusted, qualified adult and receive appropriate health care.

"Taking this option away will only increase their risk of unintended pregnancy, untreated STIs, and long-term harm to their health," Riley said.

Tami Fitzgerald, executive director of the socially conservative NC Values Coalition, disagreed, saying, "Parents need to be involved when children face serious medical conditions."

"It is dangerous and irresponsible to allow children to make medical decisions in secret, especially when those decisions involve mental health, drug use or sexual activity," she said.

The bill now moves to the Senate.

2025 The Charlotte Observer. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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:

The images show example neurons from the study. Each colour represents a cell identified in the female brain, in the female (bottom left) and male (bottom right) nerve cord. Credit: Tomke Sturner, Uni Cambridge and LMB Cambridge

For the first time, researchers at Leipzig University and other institutions have gained comprehensive insights into the entire nervous system of the fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster). The findings were published in Nature, marking the first study to describe in detail the neurons that span the entire nervous system of the adult fruit fly. The researchers also, for the first time, compared the complete set of neural connections (the connectome) in a female and a male specimenand identified differences.

"At present, there are only a few electron microscopy data sets of the fruit fly's connectome. None of them has so far included the entire central nervous systemthat is, both the brain and the ventral nerve cord, the functional equivalent of the vertebrate spinal cord. Until now, the data sets have ended at the neck due to technical limitations," explains lead researcher Dr. Katharina Eichler from Leipzig University, describing the current state of research.

However, the neurons that run through the neck connectivethe link between brain and nerve cordare essential for transmitting the decisions made in the insect's brain. These neural circuits have so far remained unknown.

"We have now identified these neurons in three connectomes and analyzed their pathways. We studied one female brain data set as well as a male and a female nerve cord data set," says Eichler, who previously conducted research on the topic at the University of Cambridge before continuing her work at Leipzig University.

The paper describes all the neurons in the neck of the fruit fly that could be identified using light microscopy data. This allowed the researchers to analyze the circuits formed by these cells in their entirety. When comparing male and female neurons, the scientists identified sex-specific differences for the first time.

Previously unknown cells were found that exist only in one sex and are absent in the other. The researchers also discovered that a descending neuron known as aSP22 communicates, in females, with neurons that are present only in females.

This finding provides the first explanation for the behavioral differences observed when this neuron is active. Female flies extend their abdomen, probably to lay eggs, while males curl theirs forward in order to mate.

"The study provides an overview of the entire fruit fly connectome. It serves, in a sense, as a kind of roadmap that scientists can use for orientation. Based on this, experiments can be intelligently designed to investigate the function of individual neurons or entire circuitssaving considerable time and resources," explains the biologist.

Now that the technical challenges in analyzing the fruit fly's nervous system have been overcome, Katharina Eichler's research group is working on two new data sets covering the entire central nervous system of both a female and a male specimen.

More information: Tomke Sturner et al, Comparative connectomics of Drosophila descending and ascending neurons, Nature (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-08925-z Journal information: Nature
An effort to keep the Johnson Street Shelter open was shot down by the Missoula City Council on Monday night after several councilors said keeping the facility open would come at the expense of other city services.

The council voted 9-2 against funding the shelter, which Missoula Mayor Andrea Davis said in March would begin a strategic wind down and close in August because of a lack of federal funding.

"This is something we have examined whether we have the resources for, and (we) believe firmly that we do not, unless we are going to cut core services at the City of Missoula," Davis said Monday night.

The city is also facing a projected $4 million budget shortfall for fiscal year 2026, the Missoulian previously reported.

Councilors Daniel Carlino and Kristen Jordan pushed back against the plan to close the shelter, arguing the city needs the shelter to keep homeless people off city streets, especially with the new urban camping law in effect.

While the two presented some data at the meeting on where the city could make cuts in other departments to save the shelter, the pair said they didn't expect the policy to pass and instead looked to have a discussion about the city's budget.

"What Daniel and I are trying to do is try and think in a different space, and show when we have priorities we fund them," Jordan said at the meeting. "We want to make sure everyone has a voice at the table."

Malleable money?

Jordan shared a spreadsheet where she said showed that more than $3.1 million in city funds are used for urban camping-related spending around enforcement of the urban camping law, funds for camp cleanups and funding for the city's houseless programming staff, some of which she argued should be used to keep the shelter open.

Davis clarified at the meeting that Jordan's analysis duplicated some budget items, and said just $1.1 million is used annually for urban camping enforcement, including three new staff positions.

Jordan said she believes some of that $1.1 million could be spent on shelter services instead of other city initiatives. She criticized the city's homeless programs department, which employs four full-time employees and has a budget of $300,000, for not working more directly with the homeless population.

"We are not being effective in our goals set out by that team," Jordan said, arguing that Missoula nonprofits do a majority of work with the homeless rather than the city.

Davis countered that many city programs rely on those four employees, like the city's Coordinated Entry System, which tracks Missoula's homeless population. The employees also keep the city in compliance with the federal Office of Housing and Urban Development, and work on the city's housing sprint.

The Johnson Street Shelter cost $1.8 million to operate in fiscal year 2025. Several city councilors said the proposal to keep Johnson Street open by diverting funding from other city services could lead to unintended consequences.

City Council President Amber Sherrill likened the idea to the federal Department of Government Efficiency, which has cut billions in federal contracts, leases and other expenses in an effort to shrink government spending.

"The bottom line is that there is not money for it," Sherrill said. "The mayor is telling us there is not money for it, the sponsors are not finding money for it."

Sherrill acknowledged there are concerns around closing the shelter, but said that doesn't mean the city can keep paying for the shelter.

Ward 4 Councilor Mike Nugent said not only does the city not have the money to keep it open, but he also hinted that the shelter makes it too easy for homeless people to stay there and limits opportunities for other services around solving homelessness.

"This model we do at Johnson, this low-barrier (access), maybe is not making the best outcomes for people. How can we balance that?" Nugent questioned. "... We might be better off investing in other areas that we know are proven outcomes."

Carlino said the city has other options to fund the shelter. He pointed to remittances from the Missoula Redevelopment Agency (MRA), which uses Tax Increment Financing for development projects.

A remittance is when the MRA returns some money it collects from Urban Renewal Districts to other local governments, like Missoula County, Missoula County Public School District and the State of Montana.

More than $18 million in remittances have been allocated by the MRA in the last five years, according to MRA Director Ellen Buchanan, including last year to help fund the Johnson Street Shelter.

"That is not sustainable," Buchanan said. "... We can't keep doing that unless we want to deplete the Urban Renewal Districts."

The city has also used remittances to balance its budget, including in 2024.

Despite that, Carlino said the city would be in a better position in addressing homelessness if it funds the shelter or looks for an alternative location, adding Missoula has outgrown the Poverello Center. The 2023 city's Midtown Master Plan does call for a permanent shelter within the neighborhood.

"The people in our community who are using the Johnson Street Shelter are some of the most vulnerable residents," Carlino said. "The mayor and city council's decision to close it without alternatives is failing those most vulnerable residents in our community."

Moving toward housing first

While Davis acknowledged the difficult decision to close the shelter, she said the lack of funds and effort to move toward a housing-first support model makes the most sense for the city government.

She said the city's homeless count has dropped since the pandemic, and emphasized the importance of attempting the city's first large-scale "housing sprint" to find places to live for the remaining guests of the Johnson Street Shelter.

"We want to go upstream and really address the issues that are fundamentally causing homelessness, which is being without a house," Davis said. "We know that there are a number of people that will struggle with finding permanent housing and keeping it."

The housing sprint aims to spend $400,000 to get the shelter guests into permanent housing, reconnect with friends or family or refer some guests to proper treatment programs.

Meanwhile, The Johnson Street Shelter will reduce its capacity each month to slowly lower the number of guests ahead of its final closing date in August.

United Way of Missoula County, which is tracking the fund for the housing sprint, said roughly $175,000 had been raised for the effort as of April 22. Roughly $125,000 of that money came from Missoula County, although those funds originated as a remittance from the MRA in 2024.

The city council next meets on Wednesday to discuss its current budget and also hear a proposal to limit pesticide use in Missoula city parks.
The surfacing of the shameful skullduggery in the accounting for derivatives at the IndusInd Bank, presumably, with the connivance of the top echelons, sheds a sordid light on the quality of persons helming such institutions and the lack of supervision, governance and the accountability of the board of directors, tasked to oversee. The regulator is equally guilty.

The inglorious exit of the Banks chief executive officer (CEO) and the deputy, was perhaps, quite delayed, as the issue could not have escaped the notice of the board of the bank earlier, its auditors, or the regulator.

There is every reason to surmise that the matter must have surfaced much earlier, as it is said to be a practice in vogue for over five years.

It is very unlikely that any individual, by one self, could have manipulated the accounts, in todays environment of sophisticated accounting software and controls.

This ought to have been well known down the line, to the board, the auditors, but believed, as manageable and not a serious enough risk to be scared about the consequences, if found out!

The private sector in the country has been periodically seeking the widening of the doors to start new banks and also permit industrial groups to set up one.

It has long since forfeited its voice to such a liberal dispensation.

From, Axis Bank and Bandhan Bank, right up to YES Bank, almost every alphabet can represent one or the other bank, afflicted by a scam of some sort.

In none of the instances, did the so-called independent board of the bank, blow the whistle, call in the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), proactively, to probe; change the management, or take some remedial action.

ICICI Bank can be shown as an example of how the board headed by an independent chairman, MK Sharma, made light of the scandal surfaced through an external whistle-blower, till the person persisted and the board had no option but to commission an independent probe by a retired Supreme Court judge J Srikrishna.

Lakshmi Vilas Bank (LVB) and Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative (PMC) Bank are extreme cases, where the respective top management had brought the bank to ruin. In LVBs case, the mercy of RBI saved its depositors, but the PMC ones were not that lucky!

There are several others, where the top echelon and the board got away lightly, without making public the forensic audit reports, and the CEO walked out with little consequences for the damage inflicted. The directors continued on the board.

While the story of private banking is deplorable, the solace that it is possible to stand tall and be inflexible when lured with opportunistic personal gains by bending ones principles, comes from a leader of a public sector bank (PSB)!

Unfortunately, one has to go back half a century in time to find that example.

If, as often spoken, persons of great virtue are only to be found among those who lived in a previous age (yuga), 50 years is like the present!

The infamous emergency declared in the country, which would soon mark its golden jubilee, caused Sanjay Gandhi, the son of the then prime minister, to wield extraordinary power. An extra constitutional authority!

One of the industry captains well known to him had approached the State Bank of India (SBI) for restructuring a bad loan. SBI had, even then, far ahead of the times, a strict standard operating procedure (SOP) for such arrangements. In that particular case, it mandated the industrialist to step down and appoint a professional manager, in consultation with the Bank.

Industrialists may escape to far-off islands, but are not known to step down from their entitled positions as the head of the company! This person, as well, scandalised by the condition specified by the Bank, reached out to his all-powerful friend for succour.

The finance minister (FM) of the day was summoned to the court of the prince. (This is sometimes quoted as YB Chavan. But the record shows that it can be only C Subramaniam or his deputy, Pranab Mukerjee).

Any FM, being told to put in a friendly word to the chairman of a government bank, to overlook some rule of the bank, could be forgiven to have replied, Please leave it to me. Your Majesty shouldnt be bothered with such minor matters. Will get it done in a few minutes.

The chairman was contacted and promptly came the reply that he had no powers to waive any condition in a loan restructuring proposal! The minister was stunned. When the Constitution of the land was being changed with aplomb, how could the Banks internal rules be so inflexible!

The Banks chairman had such a public reputation that the minister had no option but to inform his boss that he failed. The boss promptly commanded that the offending public servant be brought before him for due counselling.

The order was conveyed to the Banks head. The latter, with little hesitation, said that the Gandhi scion had no official position to call him, and he would not meet someone without an official status.

Lese-majeste!

The prince erupted in anger, and ordered the immediate dismissal of the chairman. The minister, to avoid the unpleasantness of conveying an obnoxious instruction, approached the chairman for taking up a bigger assignment outside the bank, as chairman of the banking commission.

The chairman was only too pleased to occupy both the roles, which prompted the minister to seek his resignation as the last ditch effort to save the blushes for all concerned. The chairman was quick to reject the suggestion and said he may be dismissed as he had no intention of resigning.

It was a constitutional crisis of unimaginable proportion! When elected state governments were being sent home with ease, a functionary of the bank that was fully under the little finger of the finance ministry, could not be dismissed.

The law governing the SBI allowed for dismissing the chairman only for a due cause.

The ever-ready central bureau of investigation (CBI) was summoned to investigate the chairman for any misconduct or corruption. They could only come up with letters sent by him to various companies seeking donations for a charitable cause. The ever-ready central bureau of investigation (CBI) was summoned to investigate the chairman for any misconduct or corruption. They could only come up with letters sent by him to various companies seeking donations for a charitable cause.

Before the eyes of the sleuths could light up having found a perfect reason to charge him for corruption, they found the letters sent were merely forwarding an appeal by the then-secretary general of the United Nations (UN), U Thant, for supporting the concerned charity!

With all the doors firmly shut, the only option was to amend the SBI Act, to assume the powers to dismiss the chairman! It was hardly difficult, with a captive legislature and a servile head of the state!

On 4 August 1976, the chairman was dismissed by the government, and one of his admirers who worked in the Bank then, N Vaghul, recollects that no one in the Bank was courageous to see off the person at the gate.

The exiting leader took the high road of honesty to glory, leaving the government of the day in shameful disgrace for its actions!

Since then, the name, Raj Kumar Talwar has come to symbolise what it is to live by high ideals even when the most formidable force is brought to browbeat a person. Since then, the name, Raj Kumar Talwar has come to symbolise what it is to live by high ideals even when the most formidable force is brought to browbeat a person.

Every once in a while, Mr Talwars uprightness surfaces in public consciousness.

The nettlesome question is: Does it sufficiently permeate the governing sprit in the boardrooms of the banks and other institutions?

If interested to know more on R K Talwar, the book Values in Leadership by N Vaghul, can be read.
In a calibrated military response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror hideouts linked to banned groups Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), and Hizbul Mujahideen in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted precision strikes on key terrorist infrastructure, including JeMs Markaz Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur, Markaz Abbas in Kotli, and Syedna Bilal camp in Muzaffarabad. Lashkar camps such as Markaz Taiba in Muridke and Shwawai Nalla camp in Muzaffarabad were also hit. Hizbul Mujahideens training centres in Kotli and Sialkot were among the other targets.

In a statement, the Union ministry of defence (MoD) says, "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and the method of execution."



"These steps come in the wake of the barbaric Pahalgam terrorist attack in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were murdered. We are living up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable," it added.

The Indian government stated that credible intelligence, survivor testimony and technical inputs indicated the involvement of Pakistan-based terrorists.

Meanwhile, foreign secretary Vikram Misri, colonel Sofia Qureshi and wing commander Vyomika Singh told the media that India exercised its right to respond, preempt, as well as deter more cross-border attacks such as the one in Pahalgam. They also asserted that the action was focused on dismantling the terror infrastructure and disabling terrorists.

The strike was conducted from 1:05am to 1:30am under 'Operation Sindoor' and it was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families, wing commander Singh and Col Qureshi told the media.



Wing commander Singh, an accomplished helicopter pilot, says, "India has demonstrated considerable restraint in its response. However, Indian armed forces are fully prepared to respond to Pakistani misadventure, if any, to escalate the situation."

Shortly after the strikes, national security adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval briefed US secretary of state Marco Rubio. It was expected that Pakistan would act against the terrorists and their infrastructure. Instead, it has continued to remain in denial, the Indian Embassy in Washington says in a statement.

The embassy underlined that the operation was conducted in a responsible and precise manner and reiterated that no civilian or economic targets were struck. Only known terror camps were targeted.

Meanwhile, Pakistans military spokesperson, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, confirmed the strikes on Kotli, Bahawalpur and Muzaffarabad, labelling them a 'cowardly attack'.

The development has triggered concern among global powers. US president Donald Trump says the Indian strikes were expected and expressed hope for a swift end to hostilities. They have been fighting for many, many decades and centuries, actually, if you really think about it, he said in Washington.

United Nations (UN) secretary-general Antonio Guterres also urged both nations to exercise 'maximum military restraint' and called for immediate de-escalation. The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan, a UN spokesperson says.
A United States (US) federal court has ordered Israeli spyware company NSO Group to pay nearly US$170mn (million) in damages to WhatsApp and its parent company Meta, in a landmark ruling over the illegal surveillance of around 1,400 users using the notorious Pegasus software.

The jury awarded WhatsApp US$167.25mn in punitive damages and an additional US$444,719 in compensatory damages after finding that NSO Groups hacking campaign in 2019 violated US and California laws, as well as WhatsApps terms of service.

This marks the first significant legal victory against a spyware company accused of facilitating illegal digital surveillance. WhatsApp filed the lawsuit in 2019 after uncovering that NSO had exploited a vulnerability in its video calling system to install spyware on the phones of users, including journalists, human rights activists and civil society workers.

This is a historic win for privacy and security, WhatsApp spokesperson Zade Alsawah says in a statement. The jurys decision to hold NSO accountable sends a powerful message that illegal surveillance will not be tolerated. It is a critical deterrent to a malicious industry built around targeting innocent people and undermining digital safety.

NSO Group, whose Pegasus spyware has been linked to surveillance abuses across the world, has long claimed that its tools are only sold to vetted government agencies to combat serious crime and terrorism. However, the company has faced mounting criticism for enabling authoritarian regimes to target dissidents and political opponents.

Gil Lainer, NSOs vice-president of global communications, signalled that the company intends to appeal. We firmly believe that our technology plays a critical role in public safety and is used responsibly by authorised agencies. We will examine the verdict and pursue appropriate legal remedies, he says.

The ruling brings to a close  pending an appeal  a five-year legal battle initiated by WhatsApp which argued that NSOs unauthorised access to its servers caused not only technical harm but posed a grave threat to the privacy of users globally.

The case began in 2019 when WhatsApp, owned by Meta Platforms, discovered that the NSO group had exploited a vulnerability in its application to install Pegasus spyware on approximately 1,400 devices. The targets included journalists, human rights activists and political dissidents. WhatsApp subsequently filed a lawsuit accusing NSO Group of violating the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act and breaching its contractual terms. (Read: California Court Holds NSO Group Liable for Hacking WhatsApp in Spyware Case: Report

In response to the judgement, Meta announced plans to seek a court order to permanently block NSO from targeting WhatsApp users in the future. The company also pledged to donate to digital rights groups and publish deposition transcripts from NSO executives to aid research into the global spyware ecosystem.

NSO Group was added to the US department of commerces entity list in 2021, restricting its business with American companies. The European Parliament has also launched inquiries into the use of Pegasus spyware within the bloc.

Although Apple also filed a lawsuit against NSO over similar concerns, it dropped the case last year amid fears that sensitive user data could be exposed during litigation.

On 20 December 2024, a California district judge ruled that the Israeli company making spyware known for the famous Pegasus spyware, which was also found illegally injected in the phones of many Indian activists, had breached hacking laws and the terms of its service agreement with WhatsApp to infiltrate over 1,000 devices.

Last month, the Supreme Court (SC) of India remarked that there was nothing wrong with the country using spyware for its security, but allegations of it being used against private individuals will be looked at.

In reference to the ongoing security situation in the country, the SC remarked that one must be careful in these times.

When a lawyer submitted that nothing was stopping the state from using the spyware if it had been purchased, the SC said, "What is wrong if the country is using that spyware against the adverse elements? To have a spyware, nothing wrong... We cannot compromise and sacrifice the security of the nation. Private civil individual, who have right to privacy, will be protected under the Constitution... their complaint with regard to that [can always be looked at]."

The SC also remarked that the expert committee report on the alleged misuse of the spyware cannot be made public, thereby turning it into a matter of discussion on the streets.

It added that any report touching "security and sovereignty of the country" will not be disclosed but affected individuals can be informed of the report. (Read: Nothing Wrong in Using Pegasus, but Will Examine Misuse against Individuals: Supreme Court

In 2021, an international consortium of news outlets, including the Indian news portal The Wire, had released a series of reports indicating that the said software may have been used to infect the mobile devices of several persons including Indian journalists, activists, lawyers, officials, a former SC judge and others.

The reports had referred to a list of phone numbers that were selected as potential targets. On analysis by a team from Amnesty International, some of these numbers were found to have traces of a successful Pegasus infection, while some showed attempted infection, the reports had said.
Coming down heavily on a deputy collector from Andhra Pradesh, the Supreme Court held the officer guilty of contempt of court for overseeing the demolition of slum-dwellers huts in Guntur district, in direct violation of a High Court order. The SC also warned the deputy collector of imprisonment and termination from service if he failed to show remorse.

A bench comprising justice BR Gavai and justice AG Masih sharply criticised the officer, who carried out the demolition while serving as a tahsildar. When the apex court offered him a reprieve in the form of a demotion to deputy tahsildar, he refused to accept the proposal.

We wanted to save his career, justice Gavai observed. But if he is not willing, we cant help. This shows what attitude he must have had toward the High Courts orders.

Justice Gavai further remarked, When you took 80 policemen to demolish peoples houses, you didnt remember God?

The bench noted that in sparing him a jail term, it had considered his childrens future. We dont want to be like him, the judge said, but we cant let this go unpunished.

Senior counsel Devashish Bharuka, representing the officer, sought time to consult his client after the Court expressed its dismay. The bench granted an adjournment until Friday, offering the officer one final opportunity to reconsider.

Justice Masih, echoing his colleagues frustration, said, It is only his children and his future we are thinking about.

The bench also criticised the officer for showing no remorse, warning that its observations would be so strong that 'no employer will dare to employ him'.

Referring to the officers current position as director of protocol, justice Gavai remarked, He must be thinking he is close to government.

Mr Rao, the officer in question, had earlier challenged a High Court ruling that held him guilty of contempt and sentenced him to two months in prison. On Monday, the apex court had asked whether he would accept a demotion instead. His refusal on Tuesday prompted the strong judicial rebuke.

We could not have been more lenient, justice Gavai said. If he remains adamant, we will not only dismiss him, we will also ensure he is not reinstated.

The Court reiterated that no one is above the law. After the High Courts warning, if someone indulges in such actions, we cannot permit the courts orders to be treated in this contemptuous manner, justice Gavai said.

The matter will be heard again on Friday.
Market regulator, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), has barred Synoptics Technologies Ltd (STL) and its promoters Jatin Shah, Jagmohan Manilal Shah and Janvi Jatin Shah from participating in the market for diverting funds raised through STLs initial public offering (IPO).

Additionally, First Overseas Capital Ltd (FOCL), the lead manager for the IPO, has been prohibited from taking on any new assignments. SEBI found evidence suggesting that FOCL, in collaboration with STL, misused the IPO proceeds under the pretext of covering issue-related expenses.

In an interim order, SEBIs whole-time member (WTM), Ashwani Bhatia, stated, The examination reveals a well-planned scheme by the company and FOCL to siphon off IPO funds. FOCL, using the authority from the escrow agreement, seemingly directed the bank to transfer funds disguised as issue expenses.

Synoptics Technologies, a Mumbai-based IT solutions-provider, launched its IPO on 13 July 2023, on the NSE SME platform (NSE Emerge), priced at Rs237 per share. The company raised Rs54.04 crore and Rs35.08 crore through fresh shares and Rs18.96 crore via an offer-for-sale by promoters. Initially, investor interest was lukewarm, but a last-minute surge in subscriptions, especially from high networth individuals (HNIs) and retail investors, helped the IPO get fully subscribed without underwriter support. However, SEBI soon began receiving complaints about how the IPO funds were being used.

A major red flag emerged when, on 12 July 2023, a day before trading began, Rs19 crore was transferred from the IPO escrow account to several third-party entities. This was a clear violation of the escrow agreement which stated that the funds could only be released after all necessary approvals were received.

FOCL claimed the transfers were for issue-related expenses. However, the red herring prospectus (RHP) indicated only Rs80 lakh was allocated for such costs. STL later argued that the money went toward working capital and strategic investments, which were valid uses according to the IPO, but SEBI found troubling inconsistencies.

For instance, Rs13 crore was transferred to CN IT Solutions and ABS Tech Services, both companies with whom STL signed agreements just a day earlier. These agreements were nearly identical, not notarised or registered, and there was no transfer of ownership or shares. Investigators found that the offices of both companies were vacant. STL labelled the payments as earnest money deposits (EMDs) to be returned in three years, but failed to provide board approvals or conduct any due diligence.

Another Rs6 crore was sent to a third company, Dev Solutions, under the same EMD model. This firms location was also found to be empty. By September 2023, STL recorded these Rs19 crore in transfers as loans and advances in its books, causing the total in that category to jump from Rs1.70 crore to Rs21 crore. SEBI suspects this could be financial misrepresentation.

SEBIs investigation also revealed that the bank accounts receiving the money did not belong to the named companies CN IT Solutions, ABS Tech Services, or Dev Solutions. Instead, they were in the names of unrelated individuals or businesses. SEBIs preliminary findings point to a deliberate effort to misuse IPO funds and mislead both investors and regulators.

SEBI's investigation is still ongoing and more action is expected based on future discoveries.
A routine patrol by a multi-agency security team along the KanyonyooEmbu Highway turned into a high-stakes operation after officers intercepted a Meru-bound passenger bus carrying explosives. The bus, which had departed from Mombasa, raised suspicion during a search that uncovered a white carton branded with LATO Milk logos.

Upon inspection, officers found a deadly stash: ten water gel explosives labeled EXPLOGEL V6, a detonating cord, and two IDEAL Electric Detonators. Authorities immediately escorted the bus to Kanyonyo Police Station and arrested the driver, Lawrance Kioko Mutuku, and the conductor, Said Rashid Amour, for questioning.

Detectives from the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU) and Bomb Disposal Unit (BDU) launched an intensive investigation, using forensic clues to track down the mastermind. Their efforts led them to Mundutsu village in Kakamega County, where they arrested Brenda Imboyanga Makhulungu  the registered sender of the package.

She had deceptively labeled the parcel as Dawa ya Maji (water treatment medicine) at Tahmeeds Kakamega office, coordinating its delivery route from Kakamega to Mombasa, then onward to Meru via Kitui.

The investigation widened with police arresting two more suspects  David Tindi Andala and John Kariuki Kungu  in Meru town in connection with the smuggling operation.

All five suspects are now in custody in the ongoing probe, with the bus and the seized explosives detained as exhibits, the DCI reported.

Authorities have intensified security surveillance across major highways, urging the public to report any suspicious activity.

Photos of the suspects;
Betting and gaming companies in Kenya now face stricter compliance demands before they can renew their operating licenses, as the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) rolls out a fresh set of tax regulations targeting the sector.

In a public notice published in MyGov on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, KRA announced that all licenses issued by the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) for the 2024/25 financial year will officially expire on June 30, 2025.

To continue operating beyond that date, betting firms must apply for license renewal and fully meet the new compliance guidelines set by KRA.

Clearance by KRA is a mandatory requirement for renewal of the licenses by the BCLB. In this regard, all betting and gaming operators are encouraged to update their tax matters with KRA to avoid any inconveniences, the authority warned.

Among the critical documents firms must submit is the CR12 form, an official record issued by the Registrar of Companies. This document lists current directors, shareholders, and their shareholdingsinformation KRA uses to verify corporate ownership and management structures.

In addition, companies must update their iTax profiles to align with their CR12 records. That includes providing current director details, updated physical addresses, and accurate contact information.

But thats just the beginning.

KRA Demands Full Tax Compliance

Firms must prove they have filed all required tax returns for their obligations. More importantly, every director of the company must also be individually tax-complianta requirement KRA says is non-negotiable.

Operators will only be cleared to renew their licenses once theyve settled any outstanding tax liabilitiesboth at the corporate and director levels. They must also present Valid Tax Compliance Certificates (TCCs) for both the company and its leadership team.

KRA also listed several other mandatory requirements:

Full cooperation during tax audits and compliance checks

Provision of all requested documentation during ongoing reviews

Unrestricted system access for audit purposes

Integration with KRAs digital platforms for daily tax remittances and real-time data sharing

Use of integrated and approved paybill numbers for transparency in revenue collection

These new requirements are part of a broader government strategy to boost tax transparency and regulatory compliance in Kenyas lucrative betting industry, just weeks ahead of the license expiry deadline.

The move comes as the government cracks down on illegally operating betting firms.

Recently, BCLB flagged 58 betting websites, accusing them of operating without valid licenses within Kenyas online domain. The board ordered their immediate shutdown, claiming the sites lured users with promises of winnings but refused to pay out, leading to widespread complaints of financial exploitation.

As authorities tighten the noose on rogue operators, legitimate firms are under pressure to align with KRAs new compliance measures or risk being shut out of business by mid-year.
In a bizarre twist straight out of a supernatural thriller, police in Matayos sub-county arrested a 26-year-old man on Monday for carrying a live snake in a bagwith no permit to show for it.

Officers identified the suspect as Fanish Ramsey Maloba and nabbed him during a routine patrol at Malenya. Suspicious of the black bag he carried, police stopped him and were stunned to find a two-metre-long black and brown snake slithering inside.

Authorities booked Maloba at Mayenje police post for possessing a wild animal without a valid license from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).

But the real twist came during interrogation. Maloba claimed he had crossed the border into Uganda to offer prayers and cast out demons. According to him, the snake mysteriously appeared during the session, and he decided to bring it back to his churchApostle Ministries in Matayosfor further prayers.

KWS officers, alongside detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Busia, visited the scene, documented the evidence, and safely took the snake into their custody.

DCI officers have opened an investigation into the odd incident. Meanwhile, Maloba remains in custody and will face charges in court once inquiries wrap up.
Auditor General Nancy Gathungus 2023/24 audit report has exposed a troubling lack of valid land ownership documents within 16 government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), raising serious concerns about the security and management of public assets.

The report reveals that many critical government offices, including those in Harambee House and Nyayo House, lack proper land ownership titles. These two iconic buildings house key state offices, such as the Office of the President, the Ministry of Interior, and the Ministry of Public Service, among others. Without verified ownership documents, it is difficult for the Auditor Generals office to confirm the legality of these properties.

Similarly, the National Police Service (NPS) and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) are also listed for not providing title deeds for several government properties across the country. These gaps in documentation complicate efforts to track government assets and may expose them to legal and security risks.

Perhaps most concerning is the situation with the State Department for Housing and Urban Development, which is overseeing the governments ambitious affordable housing projects. Despite the Ksh49.45 billion allocated for the programme, the department does not possess ownership documents for the land designated for the project. This lack of documentation could hinder the processing of sectional titles for homebuyers, as the Auditor General noted, raising doubts about the feasibility of selling these homes without verified land ownership.

Affordable Housing Programme

As of December 2024, the government had raised Ksh88.7 billion through the Housing Levy to support the affordable housing programme. However, only Ksh46 billion has been invested in Treasury bills, instead of being directly used to fund construction. The lack of land documentation further complicates the governments ability to move forward with its housing agenda.

In the circumstances, it could not be confirmed on how the sectional titles would be processed without the original land ownership documents and this could hinder the Affordable Houses sale to the public, Auditor General Gathungu pointed out.

Other government departments have also been flagged for missing land ownership documents. For instance, the State Department for Foreign Affairs failed to provide land documents for the Kenya Mission in Tel Aviv, Israel, while the Ministry of Healths State Department for Medical Services did not submit the title deed for the parcel housing the Ministrys headquarters. The State Law Office also failed to provide documents for land in Malindi.

The situation worsens with the State Department for Correctional Services, which lacks ownership documents for several correctional facilities across the country. Worse, at least ten parcels of land belonging to these facilities have been encroached upon by unauthorized individuals, churches, and other government institutions. This has raised significant concerns over the security and safeguarding of prison land, which could potentially jeopardize the operations of these facilities.

Other Govt Entities Without Valid Land Ownership Records

Similar issues are evident within the State Department for Agriculture, which lacks documentation for land where key facilities like a grain storage plant in Bomet County and the Homa Bay Agricultural Training and Development Centre are located.

The State Department for the Blue Economy and Fisheries also faces the same issue, with missing documents for several parcels of land. Similarly, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) cannot provide title deeds for eight parcels of land, further raising questions about the agencys land holdings.

The State Department for Mining has failed to present the necessary land ownership documents for the Kwale regional office and the site for the Wundanyi Youth Resource Centre. Additionally, the State Department for Social Protection and Senior Citizen Affairs has not provided documents for the Othaya Rehabilitation School, a vital facility designed to support vulnerable groups.

The Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning, the National Land Commission and the National Treasury should work together to resolve the issue of public land owned by State departments and other government entities, the report recommends.

These findings underscore a systemic failure across multiple government sectors to secure legal claims to land, leaving public assets vulnerable to disputes, encroachment, and misuse. The lack of clear land ownership records not only jeopardizes the safety and integrity of government infrastructure but also raises alarms about the potential for corruption and mismanagement in public land dealings.
When embarking on the journey of account planning, one often might underestimate the complexity and nuance involved in forming effective strategies. At the core of powerful account planning is the segmentation of clients and prospectsan essential practice that allows for a tailored approach to account management.

Segmentation serves to organize an array of customers into distinct groups based on various criteria such as their needs, industries, and behaviors.

This targeted method facilitates more personalized interaction and efficient resource allocation.

Keep reading to understand how segmentation can transform your account planning efforts for better customer relationships and financial outcomes.

Understanding Segmentation in Account Planning Strategy

Segmentation in the context of an account planning strategy is pivotal for recognizing the unique attributes and needs of each client. It allows for the categorization of accounts based on factors like size, potential for growth, strategic value, and buying behaviors.

Understanding that each account can vastly differ from the next enables businesses to prioritize and tailor their approaches effectively.

The granularity in segmentation can range from broad classification to a highly detailed breakdown of account characteristics. This deeper understanding of the account variables helps in crafting more impactful and resonant sales pitches, as well as in offering customized solutions.

Such meticulous segmentation injects sophistication into the account planning strategy, setting the stage for strategic sales initiatives.

In practical terms, segmentation often takes shape through the creation of account tiers. This hierarchy aids in directing the right level of attention and resources based on the potential return on investment (ROI) from each segment.

For example, Tier 1 accounts may receive more in-depth analysis and bespoke service options compared to those in Tier 2 or Tier 3.

Customizing Communication and Content for Account Segments

Personalization is key in the digital age, and account segmentation is what makes personalization possible at scale. By grouping accounts based on where they are in the buyers journey or by industry needs, companies can customize communication strategies for enhanced engagement.

This granular approach affects everything from the timing of communication to the platform of engagement and content shared. A business capable of delivering relevant insights and solutions through customized communication can cement its role as an indispensable resource to its clients.

Moreover, accurate account segmentation facilitates the development of targeted content, such as guides, articles, and whitepapers that speak to the specific needs or pain points of each segment.

This helps establish a company as a leader and trusted advisor because the content provided is not generic but instead highly applicable and beneficial to the clients business.

Data-Driven Decision Making Through Account Segmentation

One cannot overstate the importance of data in modern business practices, and account segmentation is no different. Utilizing data analytics tools to delve into segmentation allows for well-informed, strategic decision-making.

It moves account planning from a realm of intuition to one of actionable intelligence.

Data-driven segmentation enhances understanding of customer behavior and preferences. Businesses can track which types of accounts generate the most revenue, have the longest sales cycles, or require the most support.

Such insights are invaluable to formulating strategies that yield positive results.

Moreover, as market conditions fluctuate and customer needs evolve, data is the compass that helps businesses navigate these changes. Regular analysis of segmented data ensures that strategies remain relevant and effective.

It also empowers companies to anticipate shifts in various account segments and adapt accordingly.

Measuring Success and ROI in Segmented Account Strategies

Ultimately, the goal of any account planning strategy is to drive growth and profitability. Measuring success in segmented approaches requires identifying key performance indicators (KPIs) for each segment and tracking progress against them.

This measurement ensures accountability and provides quantifiable benchmarks to assess the effectiveness of the segmentation strategy.

Additionally, segmentation allows for a nuanced understanding of ROI. By examining ROI at the segment level, businesses can accurately allocate resources and double down on strategies that show promise.

Conversely, they can also retract from segments that do not offer satisfactory returns, thereby optimizing overall investment in account planning.

Overall, its clear that segmentation is a fundamental component of a successful account planning strategy. It enables businesses to pinpoint opportunities, personalize their approach, and make informed decisions that can be traced and measured.

This granular, data-backed methodology not only augments customer satisfaction and loyalty but also enhances operational efficacy and growth potential.

As the marketplace continues to evolve, companies that master segmentation in account planning are poised to achieve enduring success.
BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Eighty years ago, the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War marked a turning point in human history, opening a new chapter in building a better international order and pursuing lasting peace.

Today, the world has undergone dramatic transformations. Technology has connected distant corners of the globe, and globalization has brought nations closer than ever before. Yet, alongside these advances, new and complex challenges have emerged. Global uncertainty is rising, marked by power politics, unilateralism and division in ever-evolving forms.

As the world reflects on the lessons of history, humanity must confront some urgent questions: How can we safeguard the hard-won peace? How can we collectively address pressing global challenges? And most importantly, how can we forge a shared future for all?

As noted by Chinese President Xi Jinping at the general debate of the 70th session of the United Nations General Assembly back in 2015, history is a mirror, and only by drawing lessons from history can the world avoid repeating past calamities.

"We should view history with awe and human conscience. The past cannot be changed, but the future can be shaped. Bearing history in mind is not to perpetuate hatred. Rather, it is for mankind not to forget its lesson. Remembering history does not mean being obsessed with the past. Rather, in doing so, we aim to create a better future and pass the torch of peace from generation to generation," Xi said then.

VICTORY OF THE JUST

On the night of May 8, 1945, Germany signed the surrender document in Karlshorst, Berlin, marking the end of World War II (WWII) in Europe. Meanwhile in Asia, China's final major campaign against Japan -- the Battle of Western Hunan -- reached its decisive phase.

Japan's surrender aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay on Sept. 2, 1945, concluded WWII, humanity's deadliest conflict. More than 80 countries and regions, involving roughly 2 billion people, were drawn into the war, with the total casualties at over 100 million and economic losses exceeding 4 trillion U.S. dollars. Against fascist aggression, more than 50 countries, including China and the Soviet Union, formed a united front.

The world will never forget that as the main theater in the East of the World Anti-Fascist War, China made a national sacrifice of over 35 million casualties in its fight against the majority troops of Japanese militarism. During 14 years of fierce anti-fascist fighting, China engaged and tied down over two-thirds of the Japanese Army, inflicting 70 percent of Japan's wartime military casualties. These efforts significantly contributed to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War.

People from different countries stood with China in the common struggle. China will always remember the international support it received. For example, the U.S. "Flying Tigers" opened up the Hump Route for transporting emergency supplies; foreign doctors such as Norman Bethune from Canada and Dwarkanath Kotnis from India risked their lives to save others; German businessman John Rabe helped protect civilians during the Nanjing Massacre in 1937.

Equally significant was the Soviet Union's sacrifice and contribution on the European theater of World War II. From the Battle of Moscow to the Battle of Stalingrad and the Battle of Kursk, the Soviet people bore tremendous hardship and played a decisive role in defeating Nazi troops.

During the global anti-fascist war, China and the Soviet Union supported each other. Soviet air force volunteers fought alongside Chinese soldiers, during which over 200 of them lost their lives in China. Many Chinese, including Mao Anying, late Chinese leader Mao Zedong's eldest son, engaged in fighting against Nazi troops during the toughest time of the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War. This shared sacrifice forged a deep bond between the two sides.

The victory of the anti-fascist war shattered attempts of the fascists and militarists to dominate the world, ended the colonial divisions of the world by imperial powers, and laid the foundation for a new vision of global peace and cooperation.

REBIRTH OF THE WORLD

This year also marks the 80th founding anniversary of the United Nations. The opening words of the UN Charter -- "We the peoples of the United Nations determined to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, which twice in our lifetime has brought untold sorrow to mankind" -- stand as a powerful testament to the hard-won lessons of two catastrophic world wars.

More than just a historical reflection, these words convey humanity's ardent desire for lasting peace.

Born from the ashes of World War II, the United Nations represents humanity's efforts to move away from a world governed by the law of the jungle and a world order of Western-dominated hierarchies.

From the Westphalian and Vienna systems to the Versailles-Washington system, the old order divided the world into dominant powers, and nations they colonized and oppressed.

In a historic shift, the UN Charter enshrines the principle of sovereign equality, affirming for the first time in international law that all nations, irrespective of size, strength or wealth, are equal. That became the cornerstone for the postwar international order.

Anchored in the UN Charter, principles such as sovereign equality, non-interference in other's internal affairs, peaceful settlement of disputes and prohibition of the use or threat of force have evolved into bedrock norms of international relations. The UN system's creation has established not merely institutional platforms for cooperation, but transformed the very architecture of global governance.

Under the guidance of the spirit of the UN Charter, national liberation movements swept across the globe. Many countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America cast off the shackles of colonialism and gained national independence and sovereignty.

International law thus began to genuinely safeguard the rights and interests of developing countries. A more open and inclusive international community has replaced the West-centric paradigm of an exclusive "civilized nations club," a solid and far-reaching step toward lasting peace for humanity.

China has actively participated in founding the United Nations and shaping the postwar international order. On June 26, 1945, China was the first country to sign the UN Charter. Before that, the Chinese delegation strongly defended the interests of small- and medium-sized countries, and insisted that "independence" be enshrined in the UN Charter as the goal of the International Trusteeship System despite pressure from the West. Such efforts exemplified China's unwavering commitment to defending international fairness and justice.

The postwar international order has consolidated the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, established the fundamental norms of modern international relations, curtailed military expansionism, and advanced global peace and development.

Since its inception 80 years ago, the United Nations has grown into the most universal, representative and authoritative intergovernmental organization in the world, carrying humanity's shared aspirations for a better future.

CALL OF THE ERA

Over the past 80 years, the absence of global-scale wars has allowed the world to enjoy sustained peace. Emerging economies, including China, have risen collectively, while economic globalization has deepened, turning the world into an interconnected "global village" through expanding cross-border exchanges and cooperation.

At the same time, a new wave of technological and industrial transformation is reshaping economies, societies and international relations. The benefits of this largely peaceful era have created a level of global prosperity unprecedented in human history.

However, beneath the surface of peace flow some turbulent undercurrents. Unilateralism and protectionism are on the rise, with some politicians in the West obsessed with dividing the world along ideological lines, forming exclusive blocs and fueling a "new Cold War" mentality.

Even more, the United States openly disregards international norms, engages in economic coercion, imposes punitive tariffs and elevates domestic law above international law.

Such hegemonic behavior undermines the UN-centered international system, challenges the international order underpinned by international law, and threatens the very foundation of global peace and development.

As UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned, "Everywhere we look, peace is under attack."

The world is once again at a crossroads. Should the world uphold multilateralism and seek common ground, or allow unilateralism to grow unchecked? Should the world support more democratic international relations, or accept that power politics rules everything? Should the world follow international law and basic diplomatic norms, or return to a world where the strong dominate the weak?

History offers the clearest lessons. Firstly, peace must be defended. The terror of Nazi tyranny and the atrocities in Nanjing Massacre showed that war destroys civilization, while peace allows it to grow.

Secondly, unity is essential for the survival of human civilization. When fascism and militarism were tearing the world apart, the signing of the Declaration by United Nations by 26 nations in 1942 showed that ideological divisions can be overcome, and shared human values can bind nations together.

Thirdly, the tide of history cannot be reversed or resisted. The fall of colonialism, the end of the Cold War and the rise of developing countries all show that the logic of "might makes right" does not last. A multipolar world is the way forward.

Fourthly, rules are not tools for the powerful to abuse. Instead, they are the foundation of fairness and justice. The principles in the UN Charter, including sovereign equality and bans on aggression, remind humanity that without rules, the world risks sliding into chaos.

As a victor in World War II as well as a founder and defender of the post-war order, China has consistently stood on the right side of history and on the side of civilization and human progress.

From advancing high-quality Belt and Road cooperation to launching the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, and from promoting a community with a shared future for mankind to offering ideas and solutions for global and regional challenges, China supports true multilateralism through concrete actions. It is working to make global governance fairer and more balanced, while contributing stability and positive momentum to world peace and development.

The majority of the world has come to recognize China as a pivotal force in safeguarding world peace and stability. As noted by UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher, initiatives China proposed around peace and security, global development and cultural cooperation closely align with the UN's core mission of peacemaking, humanitarian efforts and global security.

The concept of "a community with a shared future for mankind" is another key idea that highlights global solidarity and "the world coming together, not pulling apart," Fletcher told Xinhua, adding that such a concept has created "partnerships that we really need if we're to meet the challenges ahead of us, including climate change."

As partners who fought side by side in World War II, China and Russia continue to work together today to uphold global strategic stability. They coordinate closely within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS, jointly opposing hegemonism and power politics, and promoting a more multipolar world and economic globalization through true multilateralism.

Meanwhile, emerging markets and developing countries are rising as a collective force. The awakened Global South is gaining strength, confidence and a greater voice in global governance. The forces for peace and development have never been more robust.

French writer Victor Hugo once observed: "Memories are our strength. When night attempts to return, we must light up the great dates, as we would light torches." The significance of marking the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War lies in illuminating the path ahead, and reaffirming humanity's unwavering commitment to enduring peace.

At this new crossroads in history, what humanity needs is not the drumbeat of a new Cold War, but the call for cooperation; not claims of civilizational superiority, but a spirit of shared prosperity; not a return to the law of the jungle, but a renewed commitment to a shared future.

Only by following this path can the world prevent the tragedies of history from repeating themselves and turn the vision of lasting peace and sustainable development into reality. 
Indian stock markets opened in negative but recovered and trading in flat at the time of filing this report on Wednesday after India launched anti-terrorist strikes in Pakistan. The Nifty 50 index opened with a decline of 146 points at 24,233.30, or a decline of -0.60 per cent, while the BSE Sensex opened at 79,948.80 with a decline of -692.27 or -0.86 per cent. But soon indices recovered the losses. Experts noted that now Indian markets may react negatively to the tensions at the border which materialized last night. Ajay Bagga, a Banking and Market Expert, told ANI, "The geopolitical risk that was hanging over the Indian markets has got crystallised today with the Indian strikes on PoK and Pakistan-based terror camps. Indian markets will open with a negative gap as we saw when the Uri and Balakot strike news was announced." He added that the future impact on markets will depend on how the situation evolves in the coming days. "The future impact on the market will depend on whether this strike remains contained to today or if it expands. Geopolitical risk remains elevated and we could see some more selling in the Indian markets," Bagga said. In the sectoral indices on the NSE, Nifty FMCG, IT, Media and Pharma all declined more than at the time of filing this report while the Nifty Auto gained 0.47 per cent Nifty PSU Bank also up by 0.81 per cent. On the global front, cues are positive as experts say there are reports of a US-China summit on trade negotiations in Switzerland. India announced the signing of a trade agreement with the UK. US futures are up on the US-China talks news. China has announced further policy easing; it will cut key rates by 10 points and bank reserve requirements by 50 points in a bid to boost the economy. The reaction in other Asian markets was mixed. The Hang Seng index in Hong Kong gained 0.33 per cent, while Taiwan's weighted index was flat but in red. South Korea's KOSPI index rose by 0.25 per cent. However, Japan's Nikkei 225 index was slightly down by 0.09 per cent at the time of filing this report. (ANI)
VMPL New Delhi [India], May 7: In the ICSE 2025 board examinations, several PhysicsWallah (PW) students have performed well in the ICSE 2025 board examinations, with high scorers emerging from Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh. Meenakshi Kumari Jha from Jharkhand secured 99.6%, followed by Shaurya Patel from Uttar Pradesh with 99.2%, and Ananya Yaduvanshi, also from Uttar Pradesh, who scored 98.6%. Sneha Mishra from Uttar Pradesh, also scored 98.6%. Additionally, Naman Keshri (Jharkhand) scored 98.4%, and Shishir Kumar Shukla (Uttar Pradesh) scored 98%. These students have prepared from the Victory 2025 batches. Over 150 students from PhysicsWallah (PW) have scored 95% and above. Commenting on the results, Alakh Pandey, Teacher, Founder & CEO, PhysicsWallah (PW), said, "Hearty congratulations to all students. These results reflect the consistency and discipline of the students. Class 10 board exams are an important milestone- they lay the foundation for academic choices. We're proud of the students' effort and are trying to help learners move forward at their own pace." Meenakshi expressed her joy, saying, "My experience has been amazing. The way the teachers teach is very helpful and their teaching style also helped me stay motivated. While there were sometimes backlogs, I made sure not to miss any tests or lectures. Even if I did, I would watch the recorded sessions, but I never skipped them. The availability of doubt-solving was helpful. A big thank you to my parents and the entire PW team." The Victory 2025 batch is designed to support students through a structured approach to one year class courses for class 10 students. The performance in this year's ICSE exams is an example of the PW's academic approach and the evolving needs of the students that they may require at this stage of education. About PhysicsWallah (PW) PhysicsWallah (PW), an education platform, was founded in 2020 by Alakh Pandey and Prateek Maheshwari. Headquartered in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, PW aims to democratize education through online, offline and hybrid platforms. Initially launched as a YouTube channel in 2016, PW now offers education to students through its YouTube channels, including vernacular languages. PW aims to create a hybrid education ecosystem in the country by establishing tech-enabled offline and hybrid centres in cities nationwide. PW's offerings span various educational segments, including test preparation, a skilling vertical, higher education, and education abroad. PW has raised funding from investors, including Hornbill Capital, Lightspeed Ventures, Westbridge and GSV Ventures. (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)
PRNewswire London [UK], May 7: As the United Kingdom and India announce a historic Free Trade Agreement (FTA), India Global Forum (IGF) and the UK India Future Forum (UKIFF) commend the sustained efforts of both governments in achieving this landmark economic milestone. We acknowledge the complexities involved in such negotiations and recognise the dedication of all stakeholders in navigating these challenges. The UK-India FTA signifies more than a trade pact; it embodies a shared vision for a comprehensive strategic partnership. It reflects a mutual commitment to fostering economic growth, innovation, and cultural exchange between our two nations. Over the years, IGF has served as a critical platform facilitating dialogue among policymakers, business leaders, and civil society, consistently bridging contexts, and promoting collaboration across sectors. Manoj Ladwa, Founder & Chairman, India Global Forum and UK India Future Forum said: "My congratulations to Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Kier Starmer, as well as the negotiation teams of both countries. FTAs are notoriously complex and this truly is a remarkable achievement that will serve both countries well. This agreement represents a significant milestone in UK-India relations, underscoring the potential of our partnership and the opportunities that lie ahead. It is a testament to what can be achieved when diplomacy, pragmatism, and partnership come together with purpose, and of course, it is proof that democracies work best when democracies work together." Looking ahead, IGF remains committed to supporting the implementation of this agreement. We will continue to provide spaces for constructive dialogue, monitor progress, and encourage initiatives that deepen UK-India ties, particularly at our upcoming flagship programme in the UK, IGF London 2025. IGF London (June 16-20) will be the first major international platform to celebrate this achievement and to explore its real-world impact. The signing of the agreement, a decade since Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first bilateral visit to Britain, underscores how far the UK-India relationship has progressed, anchored in mutual strategic interest, economic ambition, and shared global outlook. About India Global Forum India Global Forum is a global affairs organisation that tells the story of contemporary India. We believe India's pace of change and growth presents limitless opportunities to the world -- and we're the gateway to seize them. Our initiatives accelerate prosperity and global resilience, connect India's tech and innovation ecosystem to the world, promote proactive climate leadership for a sustainable future, drive empowerment through diversity in business and society, and inspire creativity to help shape our future. And with headline events across multiple continents, we bring together the world's most influential changemakers who are setting the agenda, right now. To know more, click here Social Media Handles & Hashtag to Follow Twitter: @IGFUpdates & @manojladwa LinkedIn: India Global Forum Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2680603/PG_and_JR.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2566069/5304029/IGF_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)
PRNewswire San Jose (California) [US]/ Bengaluru (Karnataka) [US], May 7: Tredence, a global data science and AI solutions company, today announced a collaboration with Snowflake to advance the AI Data Cloud for Manufacturing through tailored automotive solutions. This collaboration combines Tredence's deep industry expertise with Snowflake's scalable data cloud platform to help OEMs, suppliers, dealers, and fleet operators modernize legacy systems, unify operational and IT data, and deliver AI-driven insights at scale. The collaboration enables a unified, modern data architecture that bridges OT and IT, delivering real-time visibility, predictive analytics, and operational efficiency -- all built on Snowflake's secure and high-performance AI Data Cloud. * A unified platform to help OEMs and fleet operators modernize with real-time data, GenAI, and supply chain insights "Automotive companies are sitting on years of OT and IT data, but it's locked in systems that don't talk to each other and can't keep up with real-time demands," said Rakesh Sancheti, Chief Growth Officer and Chief Business Officer - Industrial Manufacturing, Tredence. "Our AI-driven smart manufacturing and supply chain solutions, along with GenAI-led migration accelerators, unify OT and IT data to drive actionable insights. Powered by Snowflake's scalable AI and data cloud platform, our solutions help customers unlock measurable business value." Tredence's offering includes two components: 1. AI-Powered Smart Manufacturing & Supply Chain Command Center 1. Unified Data Foundation: 400+ pre-built, domain-specific KPIs across sales, procurement, planning, manufacturing, warehousing, transportation, and sustainability. 2. Digital Accelerators: White-box AI models built natively in Snowflake to power predictive maintenance, energy efficiency, quality optimization, and yield improvement. 3. Industry 4.0 Command Center: A real-time 360-degree view of manufacturing and supply chain operations, offering predictive insights and contextual decision support. 2. GenAI-Powered Migration Accelerators 1. Modernization Toolkit: Tools to accelerate migration from platforms like SAP BW/HANA to Snowflake with reduced manual effort. 2. Frameworks and Converters: Includes disposition logic for legacy objects, automated code conversion, and an LLM-powered SQL optimizer for performance-tuned modernization. With this collaboration, joint customers can: * Unify Automotive Lifecycle Data: Break down silos across design, production, connected vehicles, service, and warranty systems. * Scale Connected Vehicle Insights: Efficiently manage sensor and video data using Snowflake's performant, decoupled architecture. * Create New Revenue Streams: Securely share and monetize data products via Snowflake Marketplace. * Enable AI-Powered Decision-Making: Use AI/ML to improve product quality, predictive maintenance, and customer engagement. * Improve Supply Chain Agility: Access real-time supplier and logistics data to reduce disruption and optimize inventory. "In today's automotive landscape, manufacturers are facing a critical challenge: transforming vast amounts of siloed operational and IT data into actionable intelligence," said Tim Long, Global Head of Manufacturing, Snowflake. "By combining Tredence's AI expertise with Snowflake's robust data cloud infrastructure, we're helping automotive leaders break down these data barriers and accelerate their digital transformation. Through this launch, joint customers benefit from near real-time decision-making and predictive capabilities that drive tangible business outcomes across the entire automotive value chain." To learn more about Snowflake's AI Data Cloud for Manufacturing and its new automotive solutions, visit here. About Tredence Tredence is a global data science and AI solutions provider focused on solving the last-mile problem in AI - the gap between insight creation and value realization. Tredence leverages deep domain expertise, data platforms and accelerators, and strategic partnerships to provide targeted, impactful solutions to its clients. The company has 3,500+ employees across San Francisco Bay Area, Chicago, London, Toronto, and Bengaluru, serving top brands in Retail, CPG, Hi-tech, Telecom, Healthcare, Travel, and Industrials. For more information, visit www.tredence.com and follow us on LinkedIn. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1773052/Tredence_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)
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], May 7: Zuxtra Network, a pioneering deep-tech startup based in Kolkata, has officially launched the Zuxtra Blockchain, India's first Level-1 permissioned blockchain platform, powered by a revolutionary consensus model -- Proof of Business (PoB).

This innovation marks a transformative evolution in blockchain infrastructure, moving beyond traditional energy-intensive models like Proof of Work (PoW) and speculative financial mechanisms like Proof of Stake (PoS). Instead, Zuxtra's proprietary Proof of Business protocol ties consensus to verifiable business performance, leveraging AI-driven auditing to autonomously validate Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

"Proof of Business consensus shifts the foundation of blockchain from unsustainable computational power or speculative financial holdings to tangible business performance and operational integrity," said Pallab Dasgupta, Founder & Chief Engineer of Zuxtra Network. "By anchoring consensus to real-world KPIs, we're creating a stable, sustainable platform for the future of blockchain technology."

Addressing the Cost Barrier for Indian Enterprises

India's blockchain adoption has long been hindered by a lack of indigenous infrastructure and steep development costs--often ranging between $50,000 and $300,000. This cost barrier has stifled innovation in critical sectors such as agriculture supply chains, GI-tagged product authentication, pharmaceutical counterfeit prevention, and real estate tokenization

Zuxtra Blockchain aims to eliminate these hurdles. As a permissioned network, it incentivizes authorized partners to secure transactional data using PoB protocol--bypassing high gas fees while ensuring full transparency through a public ledger hosted at www.zuxtra.com.

A Game-Changer for Indian Startups

Arjun Dutta, Founder and Product Architect at IQPonics Technologies Pvt. Ltd.--an STPI Bangalore EA, Govt. of India, and Indian Statistical Institute-incubated startup--praised the platform:

"We were previously limited by the high costs of building blockchain-based supply chain solutions. With Zuxtra Blockchain, we deployed our agriculture traceability platform at a fraction of the cost and with zero gas fees. It's a game-changer in the world of blockchain."

Built in India, for Indian Enterprises

With this launch, Zuxtra Network delivers a cost-effective, business-integrated blockchain solution designed to empower MSMEs and startups across India. The company is actively seeking $1 million in funding to expand its decentralized cloud infrastructure and scale operations.

"Our vision is to build India-made, India-centric technology that empowers domestic businesses," added Dasgupta. "With the Government of India's renewed focus on deep-tech innovation, we are optimistic about achieving our goals."

Learn More

To access the Zuxtra Blockchain whitepaper or learn more about the platform, visit:www.zuxtra.com.

(ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by SMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
PNN New Delhi [India], May 7: In a move that marks a watershed moment for India's co-operative movement, the "Tribhuvan" Sahkari University Act, 2025, has been passed by both Houses of Parliament and received Presidential assent. The Act officially transforms the renowned Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA) into the "Tribhuvan" Sahkari University - the country's first University dedicated exclusively to co-operative education, training and research. Named in honour of Padma Bhushan Tribhuvandas Kishibhai Patel, a freedom fighter and pioneering co-operative leader, the University carries forward a legacy deeply entwined with India's rural resurgence and the nation's freedom struggle. Tribhuvandas Patel was inspired by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the chief architect of national integration. While Sardar Patel envisioned empowered villages as the bedrock of a strong India, Tribhuvandas took that dream forward on the ground. In 1946, under his leadership, the Kaira District Co-operative Milk Producers' Union was founded - a modest effort that would, with the arrival of a young technocrat named Dr. Verghese Kurien, grow into Amul, India's most iconic dairy brand and a global symbol of co-operative success. Their partnership laid the foundation for the White Revolution, making India the world's largest milk producer and establishing a self-reliant, farmer-owned dairy ecosystem that transformed millions of rural lives. The establishment of the "Tribhuvan" Sahkari University builds directly on this extraordinary legacy. Located in Anand, Gujarat - the very cradle of India's co-operative renaissance - the University will function as an institution of national importance, tasked with elevating co-operative education to global standards. The University will continue to house IRMA as a Centre of Excellence for Rural Management, preserving its identity and autonomy while expanding its mandate under the new Act. The transformation of IRMA into the "Tribhuvan" Sahkari University represents a historical continuum - from the village-level co-operatives envisioned by Sardar Patel, built by Tribhuvandas Patel, and professionalised under the leadership of Dr. Kurien - to a national institution poised to lead the future of co-operative education and innovation. Guided by the vision of Sahkar Se Samriddhi (Prosperity through Co-operation), the University will offer advanced degree programmes, distance learning, short-term certifications and e-learning certifications tailored for the co-operative sector. It will develop Centres of Excellence in key areas like dairy, fisheries, finance, housing and agri-business, and will also facilitate policy research, consultancy and grassroots innovation. It will act as the apex body for standardising co-operative education and training. The University will include a network of Councils and Boards, ensuring dynamic governance and academic rigour. Importantly, the university will also encourage international collaborations and admit foreign students, providing a platform for global exchange in co-operative thought and practice. Over its 45-year history, IRMA has played a critical role in nurturing leaders for rural development and the co-operative sectors. The new University now invites a wider community - youth, scholars, policymakers, and practitioners - to contribute to and benefit from this evolving mission. This is not just the founding of a University; it is the institutionalisation of a movement. The "Tribhuvan" Sahkari University embodies the ideals of inclusive growth, people-led development, and nation-building through co-operation. It stands as a tribute to the unifying philosophy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the visionary leadership of Tribhuvandas Patel, and the transformative impact of Dr. Verghese Kurien, the three architects of India's rural and co-operative empowerment. Dr. Umakant Dash, Director, IRMA (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)
BusinessWire India Noida (Uttar Pradesh) [India], May 7: UNISOC, one of the world's leading fabless semiconductor companies, achieved a 14 percent global market share in smartphone application processor (AP) and system-on-chip (SoC) shipments in Q4 2024, according to Counterpoint Research. In India, where the smartphone market grew 4 percent YoY to reach 151 million units in 2024, UNISOC continues to strengthen its position as a key chipset provider enabling affordable smartphones and supporting the country's digital transformation goals. Accelerating 5G Expansion with Tailored Solutions Beginning with the sustained growth driven by strategic 4G platform leadership, the company's 4G platforms has already long been trusted by many global extraordinary brands with its four key advantages that drive large-scale shipments, UNISOC believes 5G has entered a phase of stable growth, with diverse regional demands requiring customized approaches. UNISOC chip products and select smartphones featuring UNISOC chipsets. Since launching its first 5G chip in 2020, the company has built a comprehensive portfolio including the T9100, T8300, T8200, and T8100, targeting consumer electronics globally. Key competitive strengths in 5G include: * Performance-Power Balance: Leveraging high integration and multi-mode fusion architecture, UNISOC optimizes efficiency for various 5G scenarios, ensuring long battery life without compromising performance. * Flagship Gaming Experience: The Miracle Gaming Engine enhances scheduling, networking, graphics, memory, and storage, delivering seamless gameplay for mid-to-high-end devices. * Advanced Imaging Technology: The Vivimagic imaging engine continuously upgrades clarity, dynamic range, and AI enhancements, enabling professional-grade photography on mainstream smartphones. As of March 2025, over 100 UNISOC 5G-powered smart devices are available in Europe, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and South Asia. The company has conducted 5G field tests in 116 countries, shipped 5G platforms to 85 markets, and obtained certifications from 56 telecom operators. Global partners include moto, nubia, ZTE, and HMD, reflecting broad industry confidence in its 5G solutions. India Remains a Key Market UNISOC's growth coincides with significant developments in India's smartphone landscape, where 5G smartphones now dominate with 81 percent of total shipments. The company's chipsets have become increasingly important in the budget-friendly segment, helping to democratize smartphone access across India's diverse population. UNISOC has established strong partnerships with leading Indian mobile brands and telecom operators. The company works closely with Motorola, Lava, Reliance Jio, and Realme in the Indian market, powering devices that cater to India's unique requirements and price sensitivities. In July 2024, UNISOC introduced its T760 6nm 5G SoC in India, featuring AI computing power of 3.2 TOPS and supporting FHD+ resolution displays with 120Hz refresh rates. This chipset exemplifies UNISOC's commitment to bringing advanced technology to the Indian market at competitive price points. As India positions itself as a key player in the global semiconductor market with a $10 billion investment to build a domestic semiconductor ecosystem, UNISOC's growing presence aligns with the country's self-reliance goals. The company is making strategic R&D-focused investments in India to strengthen its product offerings and drive the upcoming wave of digitization. Global Market Presence and Long-Term Vision UNISOC's technology reaches a vast consumer base, with one in four mobile phones and one in eight smartphones globally powered by its chips. Collaborating with over 500 brands--including Xiaomi, vivo, OPPO, realme, Samsung, and Nokia--the company delivers smarter experiences across mobile devices, wearables, smart cars, TVs, and IoT products. UNISOC's mission is to bring innovative technology to every user, home, and industry, driving a smarter world through continuous R&D. By balancing 4G optimization with 5G innovation, UNISOC caters to diverse market needs while preparing for the next wave of connectivity growth. With rising 5G adoption expected across India, particularly in tier 2 and tier 3 cities, UNISOC is well-positioned to expand its market share by building on its existing relationships with Indian brands and telecom operators. The company remains committed to being a key enabler of India's digital transformation journey, making advanced mobile technology accessible to all segments of the Indian population. (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)
In a major step towards transforming vocational education in India, the Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the National Scheme for Industrial Training Institute (ITI) Upgradation and the Setting up of five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme, an official release added. Both the decisions will be implemented as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme as per announcement, made under Budget 2024-25 and Budget 2025-26 with outlay of Rs 60,000 crore (Central Share: Rs 30,000 crore, State Share: Rs 20,000 crore and Industry Share: Rs 10,000 crore), with co-financing to the extent of 50 per cent of Central share by the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank, equally. The scheme will focus on upgradation of 1,000 Government ITIs in hub and spoke arrangement with industry aligned revamped trades (courses) and Capacity Augmentation of five National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs), including setting up of five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling in these institutes. The Scheme aims to position existing ITIs as government-owned, industry-managed aspirational institutes of skills, in collaboration with State Governments and industry. Over a five-year period, 20 lakh youth will be skilled through courses that address the human capital needs of industries. The scheme will focus on ensuring alignment between local workforce supply and industry demand, thereby facilitating industries, including MSMEs, in accessing employment-ready workers, the Cabinet said in the release. The financial assistance provided under various schemes in the past was suboptimal to meet the full upgradation needs of ITIs, particularly in addressing growing investment requirements for infrastructure upkeep, capacity expansion, and the introduction of capital-intensive, new-age trades. To overcome this, a need-based investment provision has been kept under the proposed scheme, allowing flexibility in fund allocation based on the specific infrastructure, capacity, and trade-related requirements of each institution. For the first time, the scheme seeks to establish deep industry connect in planning and management of ITI upgradation on a sustained basis. The scheme will adopt an industry-led Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) model for an outcome-driven implementation strategy, making it distinct from previous efforts to improve the ITI ecosystem. Under the scheme, infrastructure upgradation for improved Training of Trainers (ToT) facilities will be undertaken in five National Skill. Training Institutes (NSTIs), namely Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kanpur, and Ludhiana. Additionally, pre-service and in-service training will be provided to 50,000 trainers. By addressing long-standing challenges in infrastructure, course relevance, employability, and the perception of vocational training, the scheme aims to position ITIs at the forefront to cater to skilled manpower requirement, aligned to the nation's journey to becoming a global manufacturing and innovation powerhouse. It will create a pipeline of skilled workers aligned with industry demand, thereby addressing skill shortages in high-growth sectors such as electronics, automotive, and renewable energy. In sum, the proposed scheme aligns with the Prime Minister's vision of Viksit Bharat, with skilling as a key enabler to meet both current and future industry needs. Vocational education and training can be an immense driver of economic growth and productivity, as India embarks on its aspirational journey towards a developed nation by 2047. Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) have been the backbone of vocational education and training in India since the 1950s, operating under State Governments. While ITI network has expanded by nearly 47 per cent since 2014, reaching 14,615 across with 14.40 lakh enrolment, vocational training via ITIs remains less aspirational and have also suffered from lack of systemic interventions to improve their infrastructure, and appeal. (ANI)
VMPL New Delhi [India], May 7: The Iconic Brand of the Year Award 2025 celebrates the achievements of MSME businesses from across India, recognizing their vital contributions to the nation's economic growth and their role in shaping the vision of Viksit Bharat. The 7th edition of this prestigious award was jointly organized by Blossom Media Pvt. Ltd. and Unique Arts, in association with Euro Britain Certification Ltd., U.K. Below is the list of featured winners, presented in alphabetical order. AL Basheer Logistics Pvt. Ltd - Jalpally, Telangana : The company offers a comprehensive range of logistics services aimed at streamlining supply chains, minimizing costs, and maximizing efficiency, while ensuring customer satisfaction. It provides customized solutions, freight forwarding, warehousing, last-mile delivery, or supply chain consulting. Aluminium Electrical Industries - Varanasi, Uttar.Pradesh : Established in 1957, it specializes in line hardware and power connectors for transmission lines and high-voltage substations. With decades of expertise, the company designs, manufactures, and supplies a wide range of products essential for securing and connecting various components in both mechanical and electrical systems. Atul Sons Logistics Pvt Ltd - Mumbai: It specializes in warehousing solutions, construction, and real estate. The company operates custom bonded warehouses, offering storage space to leading importers, and constructs industrial warehouses for leasing to various companies. The company manages approximately 400,000 square feet of warehousing capacity in Navi Mumbai. Brijraj Industries LLP - Mumbai: The company has a state-of-the-art plastic moulding facility, providing a comprehensive range of plastic processing solutions under one roof. Brijraj is known for the highest level of quality, customer service, and tool service capability. They have also been certified by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DIPP) under the Start Up India initiative. CGMP Projects Pvt. Ltd. - Noida: Uttar Pradesh. It's a turnkey cleanroom engineering and construction company with over a decade of experience in designing and building ISO-standard cleanrooms, semiconductor labs, BSL labs, hospitals, R&D labs, medical device facilities, operation theatres, ICUs, and related services. The company has successfully established nearly four dozen cleanrooms across various locations in India. Crown Foreign Services Pvt. Ltd - New Delhi: It stands as a premier Attestation and Apostille Application Center. Specializing in attestation, authentication, apostille, and legalization services. Whether document attestation is needed for educational, commercial, or personal purposes, their expertise guarantees a seamless experience. Delostyle Studio Pvt. Ltd. - Kolkata: Being a seasoned a software development consultant. It offers a wide range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of its clients. Aspiring to be the preferred partner for businesses seeking transformative IT solutions on a global scale, Delostyle Studio is known for its expertise, innovation, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. Nhancesmart Consulting Private Limited - Bengaluru: It is a forward-thinking HR and Compliance company dedicated to crafting customized solutions tailored to the unique demands of businesses. Through their tailored approach and commitment to leveraging technology, it strives to be a trusted partner for businesses navigating the complexities of HR and compliance. Prash Enterprises - Noida, Uttar Pradesh: It is a prominent organization specializing in skill development, enhancing youth employability, and providing CSR-based skilling initiatives for underprivileged youth. It is affiliated with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and offers comprehensive solutions, from mobilization to placement, aimed at improving business productivity. Robonex India Pvt. Ltd. - Faridabad, Haryana:The company specializes in manufacturing a comprehensive range of components, including hydraulic tubes and cylinders, pins and bushes, piston rods, pistons, head-end covers, charging pumps, bearings, and fabrication components, among others. Robonex ensures that its products meet the highest standards of quality and performance. Saad services India Pvt Ltd - Mumbai : The company provides supports and services in Apostille, Attestation, Translation, Visa assistance, and Embassy services, ensuring smooth, transparent, secure, and affordable solutions for over 200 countries. It offers streamlined solutions to ensure your documentation needs are met with the highest level of professionalism. S. R. Engineering - Raipur, Chhattisgarh: It is an industrial solution provider specializing in a broad range of products, including conveyor belts, transformers, ESPs, material handling equipment, couplings, motors, plummer blocks, and cardan shafts. It proudly stands as a part of the Shiva Group, a unified entity that brings together the strengths of its subsidiaries to offer an extensive array of industrial solutions. UB International Trading Ltd - Thuthipet, Ambur Vighnahar Engineers Pvt. Ltd Vighnahar Engineers Pvt. Ltd the flagship company of UB Group, Specializing in the manufacturing and exporting of high-quality leather footwear for renowned European and American brands. The company's manufacturing processes are meticulously designed to be process-driven. It leverages technology at all levels, to foster innovation and enhance productivity. Unique Tele Services India Pvt Ltd - Pune: It is one of the Leading service provider company in the in the Sector of Telecommunication. It provides services in Fiber Rollouts, Operations & Maintenance. They provide customized & innovative services as per client's need and make timely execution of the orders placed by clients in telecom industry. Vighnahar Engineers Pvt. Ltd - Navi Mumbai: With over six decades of experience, the company is committed to delivering excellence in every project. It focuses on customer satisfaction, it has was worked on diverse range of projects, including government and PSU works, commercial, residential, and institutional buildings, high-rise constructions, roads, and electrical sub-stations. Vinarch Infra Solutions - Chennai: It is a reputable manufacturer of metal building systems. The company is dedicated to being a leader in the construction industry, driving innovation with sustainable and efficient building solutions that foster growth and prosperity. Blending technical expertise with cutting-edge technology, it delivers tailor-made solutions to a diverse clientele. (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)
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has said Operation Sindoor is a strong response by India's armed forces against terror hubs in Pakistan and the government will ensure that every perpetrator of terror is pursued. She said India will never tolerate terrorism. "#OperationSindoor is a strong response by @adgpi -- hitting at the terror hubs in Pakistan. India shall never tolerate terrorism. Under the leadership of PM @narendramodi, we will ensure every perpetrator of terror is pursued," Nirmala Sitharaman said in a post on X. India has responded to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir which has killed 26 people. Nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir were targeted by the Indian Armed Forces. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, along with Col Sophia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh briefed the media about Operation Sindoor on Wednesday. Vikram Misri indicated that intelligence agencies have predicted further terror attacks against India. "Thus compulsion, both to deter and prevent and hence earlier this morning, India exercised its right to respond to deter such more cross-border terrorism... Our actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible." Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah pointed out that if people had not been killed in Pahalgam, this day would not have come. A meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) was held a day after the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam. The government affirmed India's national resolve to deal a crushing blow to terrorism. It said that the terrorists responsible for the attack and the conspirators behind it will face severe punishment. The government had given armed forces complete operational freedom to decide on the mode, targets, and timing of India's response. The government had convened an all-party meeting after the Pahalgam terror attack. Opposition parties have expressed their full support for any action taken by the government against the perpetrators of the terror attack. In the briefing to the CCS, the cross-border linkages of the terrorist attack were brought out. It was noted that this attack came in the wake of the successful holding of elections in Jammu and Kashmir and its steady progress towards economic growth and development. The government has announced a series of measures, including putting the Indus Water Treaty in abeyance, to send a strong message to Pakistan for its support to cross-border terrorism. (ANI)
PNN New Delhi [India], May 7: Stock price of Aayush Wellness Limited [BSE:539528], India's preventive healthcare company has risen over 50% in a month's time from around Rs. 60.71 per share on 4 April 2025 to Rs. 92.2 per share on 5 May 2025. Company's stock price was locked in upper circuit back to back from over last many trading sessions. In a year's time the stock has given return of over 400%. In a 2 years, stock price has increased from the level of Rs. 1.8 per share to over Rs. 90 currently - over 50 fold rise. In 2024, the company executed a stock split, changing its issued share capital in relation to an existing share of Rs 10 to a new share of Rs 1 in a 1:10 ratio. The ex-split date was on August 5, 2024. Subsequently, it announced a bonus issue in December 2024 of 1 against 2, meaning one bonus share would be given for every 2 shares held by the shareholders. These were done with the aim of increasing liquidity and widening investor interest. Company is taking a significant step toward accessible and proactive healthcare by launching its first healthcare centre in Virar (Mumbai), Maharashtra. Inspired by the E Sanjeevani National Telemedicine Service of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Aayush Wellness has installed a health ATM that shall conduct a wide range of diagnostics tests, in 2-3 minutes, maintain digital health records, and also facilitate Telemedicine to address health deficiencies before they become critical. Key Highlights: * Company has rewarded its shareholders with a bonus issue and 1:10 stock split * Company is planning expansion into preventive healthcare with Smart Health Kiosks & Medical Support centre; To Invest upto Rs. 25 crore in the expansion * Opens first centre in Mumbai, Aims to expand presence across India and to improve offline distribution network The Company plans to invest up to Rs. 25 crores in the first phase and shall review further investments based on business requirements. This expansion will increase company's physical presence across geographies all over India, improve the offline distribution network for our products and provide complete preventive healthcare solutions under one roof. The company envisions a future where preventive healthcare becomes a cornerstone of everyday life, reducing dependency on reactive treatments. With this initiative, Aayush Wellness Limited continues to strengthen its presence in the $372 billion Indian healthcare market, offering solutions that cater to the evolving needs of consumers. For the quarter ended 31st December 2024, company declared interim dividend @ rate of 1% per equity share having face value of Rs. 1 each. Mr. Naveena Kumar, Managing Director of Aayush Wellness Limited said "The Cloud Clinic model through this Health ATM is unique as it will deliver affordable yet high quality healthcare services to under privileged population of India. Our solution not only promotes early detection and prevention but also empowers individuals, especially those in rural and semi-urban areas, to take charge of their health in an accessible, cost-effective manner." The health ATM shall be able to conduct a up to 59 test including blood test, sugar test, Urine test, Haemoglobin test, skin test, eye test, cancer risk test, Lipid Profile test, and other basic health checkups, at a very affordable price. Further, the health ATM shall also facilitate Telemedicine, maintain Digital Health Records, Cloud connectivity generates smart reports and integration with Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission to benefit majority of the Indian Population." About Aayush Wellness Limited: (ISO 9000 and 22000 certified company) Aayush Wellness Limited [BSE scrip code: 539528], established in 1989 is a pioneering name in health and wellness solutions, dedicated to offering products that merge wellbeing with innovation. We are India's preventive healthcare company committed to offer quality products and services to enhance the consumer well-being. Aayush Wellness continues to lead the industry in promoting healthier lifestyle choices through its diverse range of wellness products and services. For more information, please visit www.aayushwellness.com (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)
HT Syndication New Delhi [India], May 7: Twelve-year-old Riddhima was gasping for breath, her fragile body battling a high fever and a severe lung infection--a rare and life-threatening case of Bilateral Hydropneumothorax with Bronchopleural Fistula. Her lungs had collapsed and fluid buildup threatened her survival. Her parents, devastated and helpless, had nearly lost hope. That's when, Shri Ram Murti Smarak Institute of Medical Sciences (SRMS IMS), Bareilly --one of the best medical institutions in North India, stepped as a beacon of hope, offering world-class treatment free of cost and giving Riddhima not just care, but a new lease on life. A CRITICAL DIAGNOSIS MEETS EXPERT RESPONSE Riddhima was admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) in Bareilly at SRMS IMS--known for its excellence in pediatric critical care, in the hands of Professor Dr Atul Kumar, Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, SRMS IMS and his dedicated team. With ventilator support, critical care, and emergency interventions, the battle for her life began. Dr Atul Kumar, who led the medical team through multiple high-risk interventions, shares, "Riddhima's case tested every ounce of our medical expertise--challenging us both medically and emotionally. It was our team's seamless coordination combined with her sheer strength and willpower that brought her through. We're pleased to share that she has been successfully discharged in stable condition, with a follow-up scheduled in the next 15 days to a month." SURGICAL PRECISION AND CLINICAL TEAMWORK Her case demanded urgent surgeries and high-risk procedures. On post-op case, a thoracotomy was performed, revealing Pericardial Effusion and pleural fluid cultures positive along with infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria like Acinetobacter Baumannii, Klebsiella Pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas Aeruginosa. A bronchoscopy added further complexity to her condition. Thanks to the surgical precision of Dr Harshit Agarwal, Emergency & Trauma Surgeon and the advanced respiratory care by Dr Lalit Singh, Professor & Head, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care , Riddhima's fragile body began to respond. Dr Harshit Agarwal adds, "It was a race against time. It was a rare pediatric lung case that demanded swift surgical precision, wherein emergency surgical interventions were crucial. Her resilience inspired us every step of the way." Dr Lalit Singh, who conducted advanced bronchoscopy and contributed to respiratory stabilization, notes, "Pediatric bronchial interventions are delicate, and the infection severity in this case made this even more complex, but we prevailed. Through bronchoscopy and aggressive treatment, we ensured her lungs got a second chance." HOPE WITHOUT A PRICE TAG Nearly, after a month of relentless treatment, Riddhima triumphed over near-impossible odds. Today, she's off support, breathing normally on her own, and on her way to full recovery at home. With gratitude and tears in his eyes, her father Sudheer Pal says, "We had no resources and no clear path ahead, and we feared the worst. But SRMS didn't just save my daughter; they gave her a new life. We will remain forever grateful." CARE BEYOND COST But what truly defines this story is not just medical excellence--it's compassion without conditions, and an act of humanity. When Shri Dev Murti, Chairman of SRMS Trust, learned the family couldn't afford the treatment, he waived off all costs and ensured she receives world-class care. No bills, no burden--only hope & healing. In lieu of the same, Shri Dev Murti says, "Healthcare should never be denied due to financial constraints. At SRMS IMS, we believe every life deserves a fighting chance--irrespective of background." LEGACY OF HEALING LIVES IN UTTAR PRADESH Riddhima's story isn't just about a life saved--it's about a system that stood strong with care, compassion and commitment; it's a powerful reminder of what's possible when expertise, humanity, and commitment converge. At SRMS IMS, every life is treated not just with skill--but with heart. Click the YouTube link below to view the complete journey of Riddhima's treatment and miraculous recovery at SRMS IMS https://youtu.be/UQbicxPxcVI?si=bux3GPUt-zARB0zJ (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by HT Syndication. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
PNN New Delhi [India], May 7: Diversification is necessary to mitigate risk while seeking returns. Mutual fund investments function as an effective tool for diversification, even with moderate investment amounts. Investors can use mutual funds to optimise risk and achieve their financial goals. Importance of diversification Diversification allows investors to invest their funds in different assets, sectors, and geographies to decrease the impact of poor performance in any specific security or market segment. The logic behind diversification is that investors should not place all their eggs in one basket. Mutual funds provide exposure to various asset classes, such as equities, bonds, commodities, and foreign markets. In addition to diversification benefits, mutual funds also offer benefits such as accessibility, professional management, and cost efficiency. Types of mutual funds Investors should consider investing in these different types of mutual funds to diversify their portfolios. Equity funds Equity funds invest in stocks that provide growth potential. They can be classified by market capitalisation, like large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds, or by investment approaches, such as growth and value strategies. International equity funds expose investors to foreign markets, providing another layer of diversification. Debt funds Debt funds invest in fixed-income instruments like government bonds and money market securities. They offer stability and lower volatility than equity funds, making them ideal for balancing risk within a portfolio. Hybrid funds Hybrid funds combine debt and equity within one portfolio, offering a balanced approach to risk and return. Investors can adjust asset allocation to hybrid funds depending on the market conditions, providing built-in diversification. Sector-specific funds Sector funds target specific industries or sectors, like technology, healthcare, or renewable energy. Though these funds are risky because of concentration risk, they can be used tactically to capitalise on growth within a particular sector. International funds International mutual funds invest in foreign securities, diversifying portfolios across global markets. This reduces reliance on the domestic economy while capturing global growth opportunities. An SIP calculator for diversification An online Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) calculator is a useful tool for investors wanting to build a diversified portfolio through systematic investments. Investors need to insert the investment amount, investment duration, and expected rate of return. The SIP calculator then estimates the future value of their investments, helping them map their contributions to specific financial goals and make informed decisions when choosing a mix of funds for diversification. Diversified mutual fund strategy Investors should employ these strategies to diversify their mutual fund portfolio: - They should determine their investment horizon, risk appetite, and financial objectives, as these guide asset allocation decisions. - Investors should balance their portfolio across equity, debt, and hybrid funds based on their risk tolerance. - While investing, investors must diversify across sectors, market capitalisations, and geographies. For instance, include equity funds that provide domestic and international exposure. - To maintain the desired asset allocation, investors should periodically examine and rebalance their portfolios. - Financial advisors can provide guidance on diversification strategies and assist investors in selecting mutual funds that align with their goals. Conclusion Diversification through mutual funds is more than just expanding the number of holdings; it requires investing in assets strategically to minimise risk and maximise returns. Different kinds of mutual funds complement each other, enabling investors to build a robust portfolio that withstands market fluctuations. Whether a new investor or an experienced one optimising an existing portfolio, mutual funds offer a versatile and cost-effective way to achieve diversification. (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)
As per The Hollywood Reporter, the film, directed by Noah Baumbach, will hit theatres on November 14 before becoming available on the streaming service on December 5.

The film boasts an ensemble cast, including Billy Crudup, Laura Dern, and Greta Gerwig.

Baumbach co-wrote the script with Emily Mortimer, who also co-stars in the film.

The story centres around the titular character, Jay Kelly, a well-known figure who still has much to learn about himself, as per The Hollywood Reporter.

Baumbach has a track record of success with Netflix, having directed films like 'White Noise,' 'Marriage Story,' and 'The Meyerowitz Stories.'

He also co-wrote the script for the hit film 'Barbie' with Greta Gerwig, who directed the Margot Robbie-led feature.

Clooney has recently appeared in films like 'Wolfs' and 'IF,' while also directing the Amazon MGM Studios drama 'The Boys in the Boat.'

Sandler has starred in several Netflix films, including 'Spaceman,' 'You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah,' and 'Murder Mystery 2.' (ANI)
Actor-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut has praised the Indian Armed Forces and the central government for the execution of Operation Sindoor, which struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). She said that the country is safe under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and "we all have faith" in him. Kangana said, "Our security forces protect us, may God protect them...PM Modi named this operation as Operation Sindoor....Pradhan Mantri ji ke saath hum sab ka manobal hai ," ( All of us are with the Prime Minister with all our strength). While our mothers and daughters watched, their husbands were gunned down...those deaths are being avenged" Congress MP Shashi Tharoor also lauded the government for not allowing Pakistan to expand the conflict since the precision strikes were aimed at identified terrorist bases and launchpads. He said the places mentioned in the press briefing by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had a history of hosting terrorist organisations. "The government has taken care not to give the other side an opportunity to expand the conflict in the sense that they have only attacked identified terror bases and launchpads. The places mentioned in the (defence) briefing have been known to host terrorist organisations like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and Hizbul Mujahideen. We have really got a very responsible and thought-through approach in attacking these places," Tharoor told ANI. On Wednesday, the Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation called Operation Sindoor, destroying four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, Sarjal, and Mehmoona Joya, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. This was India's deepest strike inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Actor Nimrat Kaur has supported the Indian Armed Forces for carrying out precision strikes on terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJk) in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Talking to ANI, Nimrat said, "I fully support the action taken by our armed forces on terrorist camps. I want that there should be no place for terrorism, not in this country but in the whole world." Nimrat also shared her opinions on Pahalgam attack. "Whatever happened in Pahalgam, we all observed it very closely and felt very sad. I am the daughter of a martyr and had lost my father in Kashmir in 1994. I understand very well that what drastic circumstances life brings in front of you, it is a very painful and sad thing," she said. She also asked the citizens to support Operation Sindoor. Nimrat said, "As a citizen of India...we all should stand with the Government of India to finished these terror attacks and make India a terror free country." The Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of Wednesday, targeting terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK).This operation was a retaliatory response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including one Nepali national. Hours after India conducted a series of strikes on terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh held a media briefing in the national capital to share the details of the operation. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media alongside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Colonel Qureshi, stated that 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Singh reported that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She emphasised that the locations were chosen to ensure there was no damage to civilians or their infrastructure. "Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Colonel Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Colonel Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Legendary actor Anupam Kher lauded Indian Armed Forces for carrying out precision strikes on terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Speaking to ANI, Kher said, "Operation Sindoor is a befitting response to those who try to bring terror to our country, who try to destroy our sisters' sindoor. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this operation was carried out. Our citizens felt a sense of security when they woke up in the morning. Also, my chest swelled with pride when I saw two women officers, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Colonel Sophia Qureshi, giving the official media briefing on Operation Sindoor." He also emphasised giving due respect to our armed forces who work day and night to protect the nation from enemies. "It is very important for our citizens to do a bit for the nation, salute to armed forces for making us feel safe. They sacrifice their lives for us. We should say thanks to them. I would also like to thank PM Modi. Be it the 1962 war or the 1965 war, I have seen many wars in my life, and I always feel like saluting our armed forces. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat," Kher said. This operation was a retaliatory response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including one Nepali national. Hours after India conducted strikes on terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh held a media briefing in the national capital to share the details of the operation. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who briefed the media alongside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, stated that 'Operation Sindoor' was launched to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families.Singh reported that a total of nine terror sites were targeted and successfully destroyed. She emphasised that the locations were chosen to ensure there was no damage to civilians or their infrastructure."Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and their families. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed... The locations were so selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructures and loss of any civilian lives", Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said. Col Sofiya Qureshi presented the videos of the destruction of terror camps, including from the Muridke and where David Headley and Ajmal Kasab, perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, received training. Other than Muridke, Sarjal camp in Sialkot, Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala and Markaz Abbas, Kotli and Mehmoona Joya camp, Sialkot, were targeted in the strikes conducted by the Indian Army, Col Qureshi informed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the attack on Pahalgam was driven by an objective of undermining the return of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "The attack in Pahalgam was marked with extreme barbarity, with the victims mostly killed with head shots at close range and in front of their family...the family members were deliberately traumatised through the manner of killing, accompanied by the exhortation that they should take back the message. The attack was clearly driven by the objective of undermining normalcy returning to Kashmir," he said. Earlier on Wednesday evening, mock drills were carried out across major cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Gwalior, and Jaipur, to evaluate local response capabilities to security challenges. (ANI)
Hemant Jain, President of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), on Tuesday welcomed the signing of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the United Kingdom, calling it a "strategic and forward-looking treaty" that will boost trade, investment, and skilled workforce movement. According to a statement from the Prime Minister's Office, "Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Starmer had earlier welcomed the conclusion of a mutually beneficial India-UK FTA and the Double Contribution Convention. The two leaders described it as a historic milestone in bilateral Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The Agreements will foster trade and economic cooperation, boost innovation and job creation, promote mobility." In his statement, Jain said, "I believe this is a very strategic and forward-looking treaty. Until now, most of our FTAs were limited to ASEAN countries or nations like Singapore. This agreement with the UK gives our products free access to a large and mature market." He also noted that the agreement will make it easier for professionals to move between the two countries. "From today, the movement of professionals will also be liberalized, which is a huge win," he added. Jain highlighted that bilateral investments will increase. "There will be bigger investments both from India into the UK and vice versa. Overall, I think it is a positive stand taken by the government here," he said. He pointed out that in the context of the global "China Plus One" strategy, the agreement puts India in a stronger position to become an alternative to China in global supply chains. "With the ongoing global trend of 'China Plus One,' this deal gives India a natural edge," he said. He also listed the sectors likely to benefit the most from the deal, including textiles, pharmaceuticals, rice, steel, and engineering products. Jain ended by congratulating the Indian government. "My compliment to the entire government for giving access to a larger market like India to us. The UK remains a significant global economy, and gaining access to its market, especially where China was dominant, positions India strategically," he said. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also welcomed the agreement while speaking at the ABP Network India@2047 Summit. He said the agreement marked the beginning of a new chapter in the growth of both countries. "I am glad to inform you that India-UK trade union has been finalised. The two world's biggest open markets have come together, which will add to their histories. This will also open new opportunities for the MSMEs sector," Modi said. "Today is a historic day for India. I spoke to the British Prime Minister a while ago... I am happy to inform you that the India-UK free trade agreement has now been finalised. This agreement on mutual trade and economic cooperation between the two largest and open-market economies of the world will add a new chapter in the development of both countries," he added. The Commerce and Industry Ministry said in a statement that the "historic and ambitious deal" will boost jobs, exports, and national growth. According to the ministry, 99% of Indian exports will now face zero duty under the FTA. The agreement will also boost trade in services, especially in sectors such as IT, financial and professional services, business services, and education. The ministry said the deal supports India's vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and aligns with both countries' growth goals. In his speech, PM Modi also spoke about the goal of making India a developed country by 2047. "The presence of such a large number of youth and women in this summit is unique in itself. This is a reflection of the changing India, which is raising its voice in every field. The biggest dream of this changing India is - a Developed India by 2047 (Viksit Bharat). The country has capability, the country has resources, and the country also has willpower," he said. (ANI)
Hours after the Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' and struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), several opposition leaders came out in support of the Army, praising the precision strikes across the border that came in response to the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 people. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi posted on X: "They asked about religion. Now suffer your karma. Indian Army." Aditya Thackeray also praised the action, saying, "Terrorism in all its forms has to be eliminated... Hit them, hard enough that terrorism doesn't stand a chance ever again. Jai Hind!" RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav said, "Hail India! There should be neither terror nor separatism! We are proud of our brave soldiers and the Indian Army." Earlier, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday reacted to 'Operation Sindoor', launched by the Indian Armed Forces to carry out precision strikes on nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), days after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people. In a post on X, the Defence Minister wrote, "Bharat Mata ki Jai." Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also lauded the Indian Army. In a post on X, he wrote, "Jai Hind! Jai Hind Ki Sena!" However, Pakistan still violated the Ceasefire Agreement by firing artillery in Jammu and Kashmir's Bhimber Gali area, just hours after India carried out the precision strikes. The Indian Army is responding "appropriately" officials said. In a post on X, the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG PI) stated: "Pakistan again violates the Ceasefire Agreement by firing artillery in Bhimber Gali in the Poonch-Rajouri area. Indian Army is responding appropriately in a calibrated manner." The artillery fire came hours after India launched Operation Sindoor -- a series of precision strikes targeting nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and PoJK. "A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," said an official statement from the Ministry of Defence. Altogether, nine sites were targeted. "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution," the statement added. According to the Ministry, these steps were taken in response to the "barbaric" Pahalgam terrorist attack, in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were killed. The government reiterated its commitment to hold those responsible accountable. A detailed briefing on 'Operation Sindoor' will be held later today, the Ministry added. Meanwhile, in a post on X, the Indian Army said: "Justice is served. Jai Hind!". In an earlier post, the Army had written: "Ready to strike, trained to win." (ANI)
Precision strike weapon systems from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, including loitering munitions, were employed in Operation Sindoor, which successfully targeted nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), sources confirmed to ANI. The coordinates for the attacks were provided by intelligence agencies, and the strikes were carried out entirely from Indian soil. The Indian forces selected these locations with the intent of targeting key Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba leadership, responsible for sponsoring terrorism in India, sources added. A loitering munition is a type of precision weapon that hovers over a target area to locate and strike targets, often autonomously or under human control, before being expended. Earlier, India's Ministry of Defence confirmed that the strikes were part of "Operation Sindoor," targeting nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The ministry stated, "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted." The operation followed the "barbaric" Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in his first reaction to the attack posted on X, "Bharat Mata ki Jai." Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal also praised the Indian Army, writing, "Bharat Mata ki Jai." Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared a post on X stating, "Jai Hind." Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also extended his support to the Indian Army, posting, "Jai Hind! Jai Hind ki Sena!" Meanwhile, opposition leaders also came out in support of the Indian Army. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi posted on X, "They asked about religion. Now suffer your karma. Indian Army." UBT leader Aditya Thackeray also praised the action, saying, "Terrorism in all its forms has to be eliminated... Hit them, hard enough that terrorism doesn't stand a chance ever again. Jai Hind!" RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav expressed his admiration, saying, "Hail India! There should be neither terror nor separatism! We are proud of our brave soldiers and the Indian Army." However, despite India's precision strikes on terror targets, Pakistan violated the Ceasefire Agreement by firing artillery in Jammu and Kashmir's Bhimber Gali area, just hours after the operation. The Indian Army is responding "appropriately in a calibrated manner," officials confirmed. In a post on X, the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG PI) wrote, "Pakistan again violates the Ceasefire Agreement by firing artillery in Bhimber Gali in the Poonch-Rajouri area. Indian Army is responding appropriately in a calibrated manner." (ANI)
Amid the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan following the Indian Army's precision strikes on Pakistani terror camps, Indigo Airlines issued a flight advisory for commuters flying to and from selected cities in the country. Taking to social media X, Indigo in a post on X stated that flights to and from Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh and Dharamshala would be impacted. The airlines requested passengers to check flight status before reaching the airport. "Due to changing airspace conditions in the region, our flights to and from #Srinagar, #Jammu, #Amritsar, #Leh, #Chandigarh and #Dharamshala are impacted. We request you to check your flight status before reaching the airport," the post read. Furthermore, flights to and from Bikaner would also be impacted due to the current airspace restrictions. "Update: Flights to/from #Bikaner are also impacted by the current airspace restrictions. We request you to check your flight status before reaching the airport," the post further reads. Earlier, India's Ministry of Defence confirmed that the strikes were part of "Operation Sindoor," targeting nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The ministry stated, "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted." The operation followed the "barbaric" Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen. Meanwhile, heavy exchange of artillery fire has been taking place at the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir, after the launch of Operation Sindoor by the Indian Army to carry out precision strikes on nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. (PoJK) This comes days after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 people. However, Pakistan violated the Ceasefire Agreement by firing artillery in Jammu and Kashmir's Bhimber Gali area, just hours after India carried out the precision strikes. The Indian Army is responding "appropriately in a calibrated manner," officials said. In a post on X, the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG PI) wrote: "Pakistan again violates the Ceasefire Agreement by firing artillery in Bhimber Gali in the Poonch-Rajouri area. The Indian Army is responding appropriately in a calibrated manner." (ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has beenconstantly monitoring the Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources said to ANI. The strike called by the Indian forves on all the nine targets has been successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces had selected the location for strikes with the intent of targeting top Jaish e Muhammed and Lashkar leadership for their role in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. In the early hours of Wednesday, Indian Army launched the Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed," said an official statement from the Ministry of Defence. "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution," the statement said. According to the Ministry, these steps come in response to the "barbaric" Pahalgam terrorist attack, in which 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were killed. The government reiterated its commitment to hold those responsible accountable. Precision strike weapon systems from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, including loitering munitions, were employed in Operation Sindoor, which successfully targeted nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), sources confirmed to ANI. The coordinates for the attacks were provided by intelligence agencies, and the strikes were carried out entirely from Indian soil. The Indian forces selected these locations with the intent of targeting key Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba leadership, responsible for sponsoring terrorism in India, sources added. Despite India's precision strikes on terror targets, Pakistan violated the Ceasefire Agreement by firing artillery in Jammu and Kashmir's Bhimber Gali area, just hours after the operation. The Indian Army is responding "appropriately in a calibrated manner," officials confirmed. In a post on X, the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG PI) wrote, "Pakistan again violates the Ceasefire Agreement by firing artillery in Bhimber Gali in the Poonch-Rajouri area. Indian Army is responding appropriately in a calibrated manner." (ANI)
Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was constantly monitoring Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. In the early hours of Wednesday, the Indian Army launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed, said an official statement from the Ministry of Defence. "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution," the statement added. According to the Ministry, these strikes were carried out in response to the "barbaric" terrorist attack in Pahalgam, where 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were killed. The government said it is committed to holding those responsible accountable. Precision strike weapon systems from all three services, including loitering munitions, were used in the attacks. The coordinates were provided by intelligence agencies, and the strikes were launched entirely from Indian soil. Despite India''s targeted response, Pakistan violated the Ceasefire Agreement just hours after the strikes by firing artillery in Jammu and Kashmir''s Bhimber Gali area. The Indian Army is responding "appropriately in a calibrated manner," officials confirmed. In a post on X, the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG PI) wrote, "Pakistan again violates the Ceasefire Agreement by firing artillery in Bhimber Gali in the Poonch-Rajouri area. Indian Army is responding appropriately in a calibrated manner." (ANI)
The launch of the Operation Sindoor by the Indian Army in the early hours of Wednesday has brought a sense of justice for the relatives of the victims of the Pahalgam attack. Operation Sindoor, was launched in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 people, including several tourists from Maharashtra. For the victims of the Pahalgam attack and their families this strike at the heart of Pakistan's terror infrastructure has brought joy. Asvari Jagdale, daughter of Santosh Jagdale, one of the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack, expressed her sentiments on the strike carried out by Indian forces. Speaking to ANI, Jagdale said, "We were crying with happiness. Modi has taken revenge, and the way the operation was named, our tears wouldn't stop. Those sisters whose sindoor (symbol of marital status) was erased by these terrorists--India has struck them at nine locations. It feels truly different, and our tears of joy just won't stop." Sanjay Dwivedi, father of Shubham Dwivedi, another victim of the Pahalgam attack said that the move made by the Indian Army instilled a sense of faith in the country's government. "I am continuously watching the news. I salute the Indian army and thank PM Modi, who listened to the pain of the country's people. The way the Indian military has destroyed the terrorism that is flourishing in Pakistan, I thank our military for that... My entire family has been feeling light since we heard this news..." the father said. Manoj Dwivedi, relative of Shubham Dwivedi said that justice had been finally served to the victims. "On 22nd April, when our child lost his life, we said that a revolution is going to come in our country, and we were sure that PM Modi will take the strictest step to finish terrorism. I want to thank PM Modi for the real tribute that the Army has given today to our son..." the relative said. Meanwhile, locals in Jammu raised slogans 'Indian Army Zindabad' and 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' applauding the Indian Army. "It was very important for the government to give a response to the attack made by Pakistan... we are really thankful to the government and the Indian Army," said a local speaking to ANI. India on Wednesday carried out it's deepest strike inside Pakistan's undisputed borders since the Indo-Pakistan 1971 war. The situation was constantly monitored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi throughout the night, as per sources. All nine targets were successfully struck, sources further added. Indian forces selected the targets with the intent of eliminating top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India. In an official statement, the Ministry of Defence stated, In the early hours of Wednesday, the Indian Army launched Operation Sindoor, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed. "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution," the statement added. (ANI)
Three innocent civilians lost their lives after the Pakistan Army violated the ceasefire by resorting to unprovoked and indiscriminate firing, including artillery shelling, from across the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB) opposite Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Army said on Tuesday night. The incident occurred during the night of May 6-7, when Pakistani forces indiscriminately opened fire on civilian areas. The Indian Army stated that it is responding in a "proportionate manner" to the unprovoked aggression. "During the night of 06-07 May 2025, the Pakistan Army resorted to arbitrary firing, including artillery shelling from posts across the Line of Control and IB opposite J&K. Three innocent civilians lost their lives in indiscriminate firing/shelling. Indian Army are responding in a proportionate manner," the Army said in an official statement. This ceasefire violation came just hours after India conducted precision strikes under Operation Sindoor, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). According to a CNN report, the strikes marked India's deepest incursion into Pakistan's undisputed territory since the Indo-Pakistani war of 1971. The report stated that this was New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. CNN, citing Pakistani sources, reported that India targeted five locations--three in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and two in Pakistan's Punjab province. The locations struck in Punjab were identified as Ahmadpur East and Muridke. However, credible sources told ANI that Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets in total--four inside Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in PoJK--using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Sources confirmed to ANI that Prime Minister Narendra Modi monitored Operation Sindoor throughout the night. All nine targets were successfully hit, the sources added. The Indian forces selected these targets to eliminate top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in orchestrating terrorist activities in India. CNN also noted that the last time India struck inside Pakistan's undisputed territory was in 2019, following a suicide car bomb attack in Pulwama that killed over 40 Indian paramilitary personnel. Meanwhile, in the early hours of Wednesday, the Indian Army launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK that was being used to plan and direct attacks against India, the Ministry of Defence said in a statement. "Our actions have been focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution," the statement added. According to the Ministry, the strikes were carried out in response to the "barbaric" terrorist attack in Pahalgam, in which 25 Indian citizens and one Nepali national were killed. The government said it is committed to holding those responsible accountable. Precision strike weapon systems from all three services, including loitering munitions, were used in the operation. The coordinates were provided by intelligence agencies, and the strikes were launched entirely from Indian soil. Despite India's targeted and calibrated response, Pakistan violated the ceasefire agreement again just hours after the strikes by firing artillery in Jammu and Kashmir's Bhimber Gali area. "The Indian Army is responding appropriately in a calibrated manner," officials confirmed. In a post on X, the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG PI) wrote: "Pakistan again violates the Ceasefire Agreement by firing artillery in Bhimber Gali in the Poonch-Rajouri area. Indian Army is responding appropriately in a calibrated manner." (ANI)
Hours after the Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) under Operation Sindoor, BJP MP Kavinder Gupta lauded the Indian forces and said the attack was a "slap" in the face of those who supported Pakistan. Speaking to ANI, Gupta said, "On April 22, terrorists said that 'Modi ko bol dena' and today 'Modi Ji ne bata diya'. This shows that there is a strong government in India, and this is a slap on those who support Pakistan... We should congratulate the Indian Army, the Indian Air Force, who successfully carried out this operation..." He further stated that Pakistan would not survive for long and would eventually be divided into several parts and removed from the world map. "Pakistan is not going to survive for long. Pakistan is going to be divided into several parts and will be removed from the map of the world," Gupta further stated. According to the Ministry of Defence, the strikes were carried out in response to the "barbaric" terrorist attack in Pahalgam, where 25 Indian citizens and one Nepali national were killed. The government reaffirmed its commitment to holding those responsible accountable. Precision strike weapon systems from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, including loitering munitions, were used in the attacks. The coordinates were provided by Indian intelligence agencies, and all strikes were launched from Indian soil, sources told ANI. Despite India's targeted response, Pakistan violated the Ceasefire Agreement just hours after the operation by firing artillery in the Bhimber Gali area of Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian Army is responding "appropriately in a calibrated manner," officials confirmed. In a post on X, the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG PI) wrote, "Pakistan again violates the Ceasefire Agreement by firing artillery in Bhimber Gali in the Poonch-Rajouri area. Indian Army is responding appropriately in a calibrated manner." (ANI)
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to chiefs of the Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Indian Navy, according to the sources. The conversation happened in the aftermath of the Operation Sindoor conducted by the Indian Armed Forces where they destroyed terrorist hideouts on Wednesday night. Meanwhile. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced that a press briefing on Operation Sindoor will be held on Wednesday at 10:00 AM. Further details regarding the operation are expected to be shared during the briefing. Earlier, India carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, according to CNN, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. The strikes were carried out to avenge the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India. The Ministry of Defence, in its statement, said, "A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'OPERATION SINDOOR', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed." "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution," the statement added. Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was constantly monitoring Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. (ANI)
The Indian Armed Forces targetted nine places across PoJk and Pakistan on Wednesday night in the name of Operation Sindoor. The Indian Forces selected the location for strikes with the intention of destroying top Jaish e Muhammed and Lashkar leadership for their role in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. The locals from Rajasthan's Barmer, which is a border city, expressed their happiness over the Operation Sindoor. According to Bhagirath Gosai, when he woke up in the morning he received the information. He stated that it was important to teach lesson to the terrorists who killed innocent "Hindus" in the Pahalgam attacks. "When I woke up today and got this information, I was extremely happy. It was important to teach the terrorists a lesson for killing Hindus by asking their religion in Pahalgam", he said. Another local Shakoor Khan said he is extremely happy with the "revenge" taken by the Indian Army. Khan stated that he stands with the Indian Army and is proud of the step taken by them. "I am very happy that we have taken revenge. We stand with the Indian Army. We are ready to fight for India. I feel very proud", he said. Meanwhile, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to chiefs of the Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Indian Navy, to take stock of the situation. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced that a press briefing on Operation Sindoor will be held on Wednesday at 10:00 AM. Further details regarding the operation are expected to be shared during the briefing. Earlier, India carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, according to CNN, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. The strikes were carried out to avenge the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India. The Ministry of Defence, in its statement, said, "A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'OPERATION SINDOOR', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed." (ANI)
A fact-check unit of the Central government has debunked the claim circulating on social media that Pakistan has destroyed an Indian Brigade Headquarters in retaliation for the 'Operation Sindoor' conducted by the Indian Armed Forces against terrorist hideouts. The Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check has clarified that this information is fake. "Social media posts falsely claimed that Pakistan destroyed Indian Brigade Headquarters. This claim is #FAKE. Please avoid sharing unverified information and rely only on official sources from the Government of India for accurate information," the PIB fact check said. In the early hours of Wednesday, India carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, according to CNN, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. The strikes were carried out to avenge the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India. The Ministry of Defence, in its statement, said, "A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'OPERATION SINDOOR', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed." "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution," the statement added. Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced that a press briefing on Operation Sindoor will be held on Wednesday at 10:00 AM. Further details regarding the operation are expected to be shared during the briefing. (ANI)
In a swift and decisive operation, the Indian Armed Forces have struck nine terror training camps across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Pakistani Punjab under Operation Sindoor, delivering a powerful response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. Defence experts have hailed the operation as a well-planned and high-precision strike that showcased India's advanced military capabilities and sent a clear warning to terror groups operating across the border. The coordinated strikes, which targeted key infrastructure belonging to Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Hizbul Mujahideen, were carried out using sophisticated missile systems, leaving the terror networks with little time to react. The action comes just days after the deadly attack in Pahalgam, which took 26 lives and triggered nationwide outrage. Defence expert Brigadier Hemant Mahajan (Retd) hailed the operation, noting, "...The Indian Armed Forces have struck training camps of Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed and Hizbul Mujahideen at nine different locations in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir and Pakistani Punjab...The precision strike has been carried out with the help of missiles...We have taken revenge for what happened in Pahalgam. The Armed Forces have to be complimented...We have used world-class missiles, and the reaction time available to them was very little..." Former Indian Air Force Chief, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria (Retd), described the operation as a fitting response to the Pahalgam terror strike. "Indian Armed Forces have unleashed Operation Sindoor in response to the heinous terrorist strike at Pahalgam. Nine terrorist sites and their infrastructure have been targeted in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. All targets chosen belong to the terrorist network and none were military targets...The cowardly and barbaric attack by terrorists at Pahalgam has been avenged following the overall directions of PM Modi to inflict unimaginable punishment to the terrorists and their backers," he stated. Similarly, another Defence expert, Shiwalee Deshpande, said, "We have hit hard inside Pakistan... This is in retaliation for what has happened in Pahalgam... And as PM Modi said, 'mitti me mila denge'..." Earlier today, the Ministry of Defence (Mod) announced that a press briefing on Operation Sindoor will be held on Wednesday at 10:00 AM. Further details regarding the operation are expected to be shared during the briefing. Earlier, India carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, according to CNN, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. Meanwhile, three innocent civilians lost their lives after the Pakistan Army violated the ceasefire by resorting to unprovoked and indiscriminate firing, including artillery shelling, from across the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB) opposite Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Army said on Tuesday night. The incident occurred during the night of May 6-7, when Pakistani forces indiscriminately opened fire on civilian areas. The Indian Army stated that it is responding in a "proportionate manner" to the unprovoked aggression. "During the night of 06-07 May 2025, the Pakistan Army resorted to arbitrary firing, including artillery shelling from posts across the Line of Control and IB opposite J&K. Three innocent civilians lost their lives in indiscriminate firing/shelling. Indian Army are responding in a proportionate manner," the Army said in an official statement. (ANI)
India on Wednesday carried out precision strikes aimed at the terror infrastructure in Pakistan. Nine sites were selected for Operation Sindoor and all nine were reported to be successful. Sources have told ANI, Pakistan Army backed by its Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has been covertly supporting the activities of anti - India terrorist outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mahammad, Hizbul Mujahideen, among others and has systematically coordinated financial, logistics, doctrinal and military support to these outfits including providing direct combat trainings. These terrorist groups shave been provided with infrastructure concealed in government facilities to carry out their operations in Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK). Several training camps (Markaz), and Launch Pads of these terror outfits are currently being run near army facilities.While Launch pads are extensively used for staging / arms training activities, religious indoctrination and other support activities such as funding, propaganda, expansion etc. are being carried out with backing of Pak Establishment in larger facilities that are located well-inside Pakistan On target for the precision strike were both the Markaz Taiba (a Lashkar stronghold) in Muridke and the Markaz Subhan Allah (the headquarters of the Jaish) in Bahawalpur. These Markaz not only serve as residences to major commanders of the outfits but also serve as epi-centre for radicalization and various training courses on intelligence, arms handling etc. Additionally, the commanders of terrorist groups have used these facilities (Markaz) to deliver anti-India rhetoric to masses in order to motivate the recruits for Jihad against India such as in Dec, 2024. Sources have also confirmed the 9 locations that were selectively targeted with the aim of destroying this anti-India Terror network. Among the targets for Wednesday's precision strike were: 1.Markaz Subhan Allah, Bahawalpur, operational since 2015, is main centre of JeM for training and indoctrination and serves as operational headquarter of JeM. It is associated with terrorist plannings by JeM including Pulwama attack on Feb 14, 2019. The Markaz consists of residences of JeM Chief Maulana Masood Azhar, de-facto Chief of JeM Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar, Maulana Ammar and other family members of Masood Azhar. Masood Azhar has made several addresses from this facility extolling anti - India rhetoric and appealing to youth to join Islamic Jihad. JeM conducts regular arms, physical and religioustraining for its cadres at Markaz Subhan Allah. 2. Markaz Taiba, Muridke, established in the year 2000, Markaz Taiba is the 'alma mater' and the most important training centre of LeT located in Nangal Sahdan, Muridke, Sheikhupura, Punjab, Pakistan. The complex holds arms and physical trainings facility, as well as dawa'h and radicalisation for terror entities both from within Pakistan and abroad. This Markaz enrols around 1000 students in different courses annually thereby highlighting the role of this Markaz in churning out terror entities for LeT annually. Osama Bin Laden had financed Rs 10 million for construction of Mosque & Guest House within the Markaz Taiba complex. At the behest of Pakistan's ISI, all the perpetrators of 26/11 Mumbai attack including Ajmal Kasab were imparted 'Daura-e-Ribbat' (intelligence training) at this facility. David Coleman Headley & Tahawwur Hussain Rana, the prime conspirators of 26/11 Mumbai attacks, had visited Muridke along with Abdul Rehman Sayed @ Pasha, Haroon and Khurram (coconspirators) on instructions of Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi. 3.Sarjal / Tehra Kalan, located in the Shakargarh Tehsil of Narowal District in Punjab, Pakistan, is main launching facility of Jaishe-Mohammad (JeM) for infiltration of terrorists into JK. As part of concerted strategy of Pak- ISI to conceal terror infrastructure in government buildings, Sarjal facility is being operated from the premises of a Primary Health Center (PHC) in Tehra Kalan Village of Sarjal area. This JeM facility holds special prominence due to its close proximity of around 06 km from IB in Samba Sector of Jammu, J&K. This facility serves as the base for the digging of cross-border tunnels for infiltration of terrorists. It also serves as the launching base for drones by which arms/ammunition/narcotics and warlike stores are dropped into Indian territory. JeM terrorists Mohammad Adnan Ali @ Doctor and Kashif Jan regularly visit this facility and JeM de-facto chief Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar supervises overall operations of this facility. This facility is actively being used by JeM to infiltrate terrorists and for smuggling arms & ammunition into India. 4. Mehmoona Joya Facility, Sialkot: As another example of Pak-ISI establishing terror facilities in government buildings, Mehmoona Joya facility of Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) is located in premises of Bhutta Kotli Govt. This facility is used for infiltration of HM cadres into Jammu region of JK. HM cadres are also given training for terrorist operations and handling of weapons by the senior commanders at this facility. Mohd. Irfan Khan also known as Irfan Tanda is commander of this HM facility. Around 20 - 25 terrorists are usually present at this facility at any point of time overseeing infiltration bids and terrorist operations in India. 5. Markaz Ahle Hadith Barnala, Bhimber, located at outskirts of Barnala town on Kote Jamel road, is prominent Marjaz of LeT in PoJK and is used for infiltration of LeT terrorists and arms/ammunition into Poonch - RajauriReasi sector. This Markaz is also utilized as staging centre for LeT terrorists before infiltrating into Indian territory. It can accommodate 100 -150 cadres. LeT terror operatives Qasim Gujjar @ Mahrore, Qasim Khanda and Anas Jarar operate from this Markaz and reside in its vicinity. Operational commanders of LeT visit this Markaz for organizing and supervising terrorist activities of LeT / Jamaat-ud-Dawa /Jammu &Kashmir United Movement. 6. Markaz Abbas, Kotli, is an important terror facility of JeM located in Kotli. Hafiz Abdul Shakoor @ Qari Zarrar, 'shura member' of JeM Council and close associate of JeM top commander Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar, is head of this Markaz. Qari Zarrar is directly involved in planning and execution of terrorist attacks in J&K and is wanted by National Investigation Agency (NIA) of India. Markaz Abbas can accommodate around 100 - 125 JeM cadres. JeM's terror activities including infiltration of cadres from the Poonch - Rajouri sectors are planned and executed from this facility. 7. . Maskar Raheel Shahid, Kotli, PoJK, is one of the oldest facilities of HM. It can accommodate around 150 - 200 HM terrorists. HM terrorists visit this facility particularly for taking arms firing training and specialized physical training. In addition to providing conventional arms / physical training, this Camp specializes in training cadres for BAT/ sniping actions and fighting in hilly area & survival training. 8. Shawai Nallah Camp, Muzaffarabad Shawai Nallah Camp, also known as Bait-ul-Mujahideen, is located near Chelabandi bridge on Muzaffarabad-Neelum Road, Muzaffarabad, PoJK. It is one of the most important camps of LeT. Attackers of 26/11 Mumbai Attack including Ajmal Kasab had received terrorist training in this Camp. This camp is used for recruitment, registration and training of LeT cadres and has been functional since early 2000. It is used as base camp for imparting Daura-e-Aam training, which includes religious indoctrination, physical training, tactical training regarding use of GPS, map reading and arms training for rifles and grenades. Pak-ISI also facilitates by providing trainers of Pak Army to provide weapons training to LeT terrorists. It is a large training camp which can accommodate 200-250 LeT cadres at a time. This camp is also utilized as staging camp for LeT terrorists before infiltrating into Indian territory. LeT terrorists camping here are sent to launching facilities located opposite North Kashmir. 9. Markaz Syedna Bilal. is the main centre of JeM in PoJK, located opposite Red Fort, Muzaffarabad. This facility is used as transit camp for JeM terrorists prior to their launching into JK. At any point of time 50-100 cadres resides in this facility. JeM operational commander and JeM head of PoJK, Mufti Asghar Khan Kashmiri is in-charge of the facility. Abdullah Jehadi@ Abdullah Kashmiri and Aashiq Nengroo (Indian Fugitive) also operate from this centre. Commandos of Special Service Group (SSG) of Pak Army also impart training to JeM cadres at this facility. Indian Armed Forces successfully struck these nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was constantly monitoring Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. (ANI)
Uttar Pradesh Minister Sanjay Nishad on Wednesday morning spoke highly of the efforts taken by the government and the Indian Army to initiate 'Operation Sindoor', saying that this was a "changing India". He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi can't see the suffering of the daughters and sisters of the country, and thus, he has initiated such an operation. "I said it before that this is a changing India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi apni behen betiyon ke sindoor ko ujadte hue nahi dekh sakte (he can't see the sufferings of our daughters and sisters). I congratulate him on initiating Operation Sindoor. I feel proud of the Indian Army. If you touch us, we won't spare you. If they don't learn, we will teach them," Nishad, founder of Nirbal Indian Shoshit Hamara Aam Dal (NISHAD) party, told ANI. Asavari Jagdale, daughter of the Santosh Jagdale, who was killed by terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, expressed her appreciation for the efforts taken by the government and the Indian Army to avenge the loss of innocent lives in the ghastly terrorist attack. Speaking to ANI on Wednesday, Jagdale said that the loss of husbands and fathers to many was not left in vain. She also said that India has paid genuine homage and served justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terrorist attack by initiating Operation Sindoor. The daughter added that the operation's name extends solidarity to the victims' widows. "We got calls from our relatives (about Operation Sindoor). India has avenged the Pahalgam attack through these air strikes. I was extremely emotional after hearing the name (Sindoor) of the mission. When Amit Shah came to Srinagar to pay homage to those who were given 'veer maran', the sisters who lost their husbands were pleading. I think this is why such a name has been attributed to the operation," Jagdale said. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, according to CNN, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced that a press briefing on Operation Sindoor will be held on Wednesday at 10:00 AM. Further details regarding the operation are expected to be shared during the briefing. The strikes were carried out to avenge the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India. The Ministry of Defence, in its statement, said, "A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'OPERATION SINDOOR', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed." "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution," the statement added. Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was constantly monitoring Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. (ANI)
K Kavitha took to her official 'X' handle and posted "Bharat Mata ki Jai, Jai Hind" following the military operation conducted by the Indian Army.

https://x.com/RaoKavitha/status/1919929629915165177

Earlier, opposition leaders from various parties congratulated the Indian Army for the successful Operation Sindoor and posted for the same on their official 'X' handle.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi posted on X: "They asked about religion. Now suffer your karma. Indian Army.

"Aditya Thackeray also praised the action, saying, "Terrorism in all its forms has to be eliminated... Hit them, hard enough that terrorism doesn't stand a chance ever again. Jai Hind!"

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav said, "Hail India! There should be neither terror nor separatism! We are proud of our brave soldiers and the Indian Army."

Meanwhile, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to chiefs of the Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Indian Navy, to take stock of the situation.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced that a press briefing on Operation Sindoor will be held on Wednesday at 10:00 AM. Further details regarding the operation are expected to be shared during the briefing.

India carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, according to CNN, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades.

The strikes were carried out to avenge the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India.

The Ministry of Defence, in its statement, said, "A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'OPERATION SINDOOR', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed." (ANI)
Following the Indian Armed Forces' fitting reply to Pakistan during 'Operation Sindoor' in the early hours of Wednesday in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack, Congress MP Jairam Ramesh lauded the operation and reiterated his party's unwavering support for the armed forces. In a statement on X, Ramesh hailed India's uncompromising policy to eliminate all sources of terrorism in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), noting that this policy "must" be guided by the "supreme national interest". "It must be India's unwavering policy to completely eliminate all sources of terrorism in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), and this policy must always be guided by the supreme national interest," Ramesh stated on X. "This is a time for unity and solidarity," he further asserted. The Congress leader highlighted that since the April 22 terror attack, the party has consistently expressed its full support for the government's response to the incident. "Since the night of April 22, the Indian National Congress has been making it clear that the government will have our full support in the nation's response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The Congress Party stands firmly with our armed forces," the Congress MP affirmed. Earlier, the Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation called Operation Sindoor, destroying four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was constantly monitoring Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. According to CNN, this was India's deepest strike inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Uttar Pradesh Congress President Ajay Rai on Wednesday hailed the Indian Armed Forces for 'Operation Sindoor,' in which terrorist hideouts at nine locations deep inside Pakistan were targeted in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack. Speaking to ANI, Rai reiterated his earlier remarks and said everyone wanted the "lemon chillies" removed from the Rafale fighter jet. "I congratulate the Army. We always take pride in our Army... The entire country wanted those lemon chillies to be removed from the Rafale... I think wherever terrorism is flourishing, we need to eliminate it all", Ajay Rai said. Rai had earlier sparked a controversy recently after he showcased a toy version of the Rafale jet with lemon and chillies hanging and had questioned the Union Government for taking no action against the perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack. In its official reaction the Congress party said it stood with the Indian Armed forces and this was a time for National Unity. "India's commitment to eliminating all sources of terrorism in Pakistan and PoK has necessarily to be uncompromising and always be anchored in the supreme national interest. This is a time for unity and solidarity. Right from the night of April 22nd, the INC has been categorically stating that the Govt will have our fullest support in the nation's response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The INC is standing firmly with our armed forces," Party general secretary Jairam Ramesh said. Earlier, India carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, according to CNN, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. The strikes were carried out to avenge the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India. The Ministry of Defence, in its statement, said, "A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'OPERATION SINDOOR', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed." Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh discussed with the chiefs of the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy to assess the situation. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced that a press briefing on Operation Sindoor will be held on Wednesday at 10:00 AM. Further details regarding the operation are expected to be shared during the briefing. (ANI)
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has welcomed the 'Operation Sindoor' that targeted terrorist sites deep inside Pakistan, emphasizing that the Pakistani deep state must be taught a "tough lesson" so that another Pahalgam never happens again. "I welcome the surgical strikes carried out by our defence forces on terror camps in Pakistan. The Pakistani deep state must be taught a tough lesson so that another Pahalgam never happens again," the Hyderabad MP said in a post on X. https://x.com/asadowaisi/status/1919930363977044204 "Pakistan's terror infrastructure must be completely destroyed. Jai Hind!" Owaisi said. In its official statement the Congress party also said that it was a time for National Unity and that the party stands firmly with the Indian Army. In a post on X, Jairam Ramesh said, "India's commitment to eliminating all sources of terrorism in Pakistan and PoK has necessarily to be uncompromising and always be anchored in the supreme national interest. This is a time for unity and solidarity. Right from the night of April 22nd, the INC has been categorically stating that the Govt will have our fullest support in the nation's response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The INC is standing firmly with our armed forces." Earlier, India carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, according to CNN, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. The strikes were carried out to avenge the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India. The Ministry of Defence, in its statement, said, "A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'OPERATION SINDOOR', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed." "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution," the statement added. Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi constantly monitored Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. (ANI)
Asavari Jagdale, daughter of the slained victim Santosh Jagdale, who was killed by terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, expressed her appreciation for the efforts taken by the government and the Indian Army to avenge the loss of innocent lives in the ghastly terrorist attack. Speaking to ANI on Wednesday, Jagdale said that losing husbands and fathers to many was not left in vain. She also said that India has paid genuine homage and served justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terrorist attack by initiating Operation Sindoor. The daughter added that the operation's name extends solidarity to the victims' widows. "We got calls from our relatives (about Operation Sindoor). India has avenged the Pahalgam attack through these air strikes. I was extremely emotional after hearing the name (Sindoor) of the mission. When Amit Shah came to Srinagar to pay homage to those who were given 'veer maran', the sisters who lost their husbands were pleading. I think this is why such a name has been attributed to the operation," Jagdale said. "The loss of husbands and fathers was not left in vain. India has paid actual homage to them (victims) by striking. I want to thank for the justice served within 15 days," she added. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, according to CNN, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. According to sources, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to the chiefs of the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy. The Raksha Mantri was briefed on the situation. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced that a press briefing on Operation Sindoor will be held on Wednesday at 10:00 AM. Further details regarding the operation are expected to be shared during the briefing. The strikes were carried out to avenge the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India. The Ministry of Defence, in its statement, said, "A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'OPERATION SINDOOR', hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed." "Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution," the statement added. Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was constantly monitoring Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. (ANI)
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal expressed his unwavering support for the Indian Armed Forces following 'Operation Sindoor' which targeted nine anti-Indian terror infrastructures in both Pakistan and the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), in response to the terror attack in Phalgam, in the early hours of Wednesday. Lauding the strike, Kejriwal praised the courage of soldiers in their fight against terrorism, noting that 140 crore Indians stand firmly with the armed forces. "We are proud of the Indian Army and our brave soldiers. 140 crore Indians stand with the Indian Army in this fight against terrorism. The courage of the Indian Army is the faith of every citizen. We are all together - united against terrorism. Jai Hind," the AAP national convenor posted on X. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief's remarks come on the heels of the successful execution of Operation Sindoor by the Indian Armed Forces. The operation, which utilised special precision munitions, led to the destruction of nine terror targets in a coordinated strike. Sources revealed that the Indian forces targeted and obliterated four sites in Pakistan, including key locations in Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, while five other targets in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) were also successfully hit. The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force jointly carried out the operation, mobilising assets and troops. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. According to CNN, this was India's deepest strike inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. Meanwhile, three innocent civilians lost their lives after the Pakistan Army violated the ceasefire by resorting to unprovoked and indiscriminate firing, including artillery shelling, from across the Line of Control (Loc) and the International Border (IB) opposite Jammu and Kashmir in the early hours of Wednesday, the Indian Army said. The incident occurred during the night of May 6-7, when Pakistani forces indiscriminately opened fire on civilian areas. The Indian Army stated that it is responding in a "proportionate manner" to the unprovoked aggression. This ceasefire violation came just hours after India's precision strikes at anti-India terror targets under Operation Sindoor. (ANI)
Hyder Shah, father of Syed Adil Hussain Shah who was among the 26 victims of the Pahalgam terror attack hailed the Indian Armed Forces following the Operation Sindoor, in which nine terrorist hideouts were targeted deep inside Pakistan on Wednesday night. Hyder Shah said the Indian Army has "avenged' the killing of 26 tourists in Pahalgam and stated that no one in the future no one should lose their lives like this. "We are delighted that killing of those 26 Pahalgam victims including my son, has been avenged. I thank the govt. Security forces and govt took the revenge...in the future no one should lose their lives like this...we had confidence in PM Modi...we got justice today", Hyder Shah told ANI Meanwhile, after the successful execution of Operation Sindoor by the India Armed Forces which struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) in early Wednesday hours, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that "the world must show zero tolerance for terrorism."In a post shared on X, Jaishankar stated, "The world must show zero tolerance for terrorism. #OperationSindoor." Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was constantly monitoring Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI.The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. The strikes were carried out to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack victims and to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India. (ANI)
Congress leaders have lauded the Indian Army's "Operation Sindoor," which successfully destroyed Pakistani terrorist bases and sent a strong message against terrorism. Ashok Gehlot, former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, expressed his solidarity, stating that the Congress Party, along with the entire nation, stands firmly behind the Indian Army and the Government of India. Taking to X, Former CM wrote, "The Indian Army's 'Operation Sindoor' has dealt a severe blow to terrorism by destroying Pakistani terrorist bases." https://x.com/ashokgehlot51/status/1919942086092013652 Gehlot further emphasised the importance of unity and strength in the face of such challenges. "The Congress Party and the whole of India welcome this action, and we stand firmly with the Indian Army and the Government of India. Jai Hind," he added on X. Gehlot also touched upon the Pahalgam attack, stating that it was deeply upsetting, but assured that the opposition, alongside Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, had expressed full support for the government's action against Pakistan in response to the terror strike. "Pahalgam attack was very painful. The entire Opposition along with Rahul Gandhi, had extended support to the government for action against Pakistan. Only time will tell what turn the situation will take. We need to wait and watch," he told ANI. Congress MLA and Rajasthan Opposition Leader Tikaram Jully also backed the Army's action, noting the public's anger over the civilian attack. "The way terrorists attacked our innocent civilians, there was a lot of anger among people. Our security forces attacked nine sites of terrorists and gave a befitting reply. We are proud of our security forces," he told ANI. In its official statement, the Congress party also said that it was a time for National Unity and that the party stands firmly with the Indian Army. In a post on X, Jairam Ramesh said, "India's commitment to eliminating all sources of terrorism in Pakistan and PoK has necessarily to be uncompromising and always be anchored in the supreme national interest. This is a time for unity and solidarity. Right from the night of April 22nd, the INC has been categorically stating that the Govt will have our fullest support in the nation's response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The INC is standing firmly with our armed forces." Meanwhile, locals from Rajasthan's Barmer also expressed their happiness over Operation Sindoor. Bhagirath Gosai, a local, asserted that it was essential to teach terrorists a lesson. "I was extremely happy when I woke up today and got this information. It was important to teach the terrorists a lesson for killing Hindus by asking their religion in Pahalgam," he said. Another local, Shakoor Khan, said he is extremely happy with the Indian Army's "revenge". Khan stated that he stands with the Indian Army and is proud of their actions. "I am very happy that we have taken revenge. We stand with the Indian Army. We are ready to fight for India. I feel very proud," he said. India carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, according to CNN, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. The strikes were carried out to avenge the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India. Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi constantly monitored Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. (ANI)
Locals across Jammu and Kashmir have expressed strong support for the Indian Armed Forces after they conducted 'Operation Sindoor' against terrorist hideouts at nine locations deep inside Pakistan. As news of the operation spread, the locals were seen raising slogans such as 'Indian Army Zindabad' and 'Bharat Mata ki Jai'. Speaking to ANI, a local said, "We are very happy. We were all waiting for India's reply to Pakistan. This strike has happened with proof, and this time, no one is going to ask for any proof. We are standing with the Army." Meanwhile, locals from Rajasthan's Barmer also expressed their happiness over Operation Sindoor. Bhagirath Gosai, a local, asserted that it was essential to teach terrorists a lesson. "I was extremely happy when I woke up today and got this information. It was important to teach the terrorists a lesson for killing Hindus by asking their religion in Pahalgam," he said. Another local, Shakoor Khan, said he is extremely happy with the Indian Army's "revenge". Khan stated that he stands with the Indian Army and is proud of their actions. "I am very happy that we have taken revenge. We stand with the Indian Army. We are ready to fight for India. I feel very proud," he said. India carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, according to CNN, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. The strikes were carried out to avenge the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced that a press briefing on Operation Sindoor will be held on Wednesday at 10:00 AM. Further details regarding the operation are expected to be shared during the briefing. (ANI)
Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit has congratulated the Indian armed forces for conducting Operation Sindoor that struck nine terrorist sites in Pakistan in retaliation against the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 tourists. "I don't think we will ever get such good news after waking up in the morning. I congratulate all three services - Army, Navy, Air Force... We have destroyed the nine terror sites," Dikshit told ANI. "We have always said that we will destroy the places that are nurturing these terrorists... It was needed, a good and right action has been taken," he added. Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi praised the Indian Army for carrying out the strike "Proud of our Armed Forces. Jai Hind!" Gandhi posted on X. Congress leader Pawan Khera said, "We are proud of our Army. If someone threatens Indian citizens, they will meet the same fate. Our Army has proven that again. On the night of April 22, we (Congress) said that we would stand with the government. If someone threatens India, we will support what the government decides. The country stands united." Congress chief and Rajya Sabha LoP Mallikarjun Kharge also applauded the accomplishment of the Indian armed forces during Operation Sindoor, saying that national unity and solidarity were the need of the hour. He said that the Congress has stood with the decisions of the armed forces and the government since the ghastly Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 people. "Since the day of the Pahalgam Terror Attack, the Indian National Congress has categorically stood with the Armed Forces and the Government to take any decisive action against cross border terror. National Unity and solidarity are the need of the hour, and the Indian National Congress stands with our Armed Forces. Our leaders have shown the path in past, and National Interest is supreme for us," Kharge posted on X. "India has an unflinching National Policy against all forms of terrorism emanating from Pakistan and PoK. We are extremely proud of our Indian Armed Forces who have stuck terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. We applaud their resolute resolve and courage," he added. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, according to CNN, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Following the precision strikes carried out against Pakistan, aimed at its terror infrastructure, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday morning asserted that India remains committed to eradicating terrorism from its roots. He praised the Army for initiating 'Operation Sindoor' in response to the ghastly Pahalgam terrorist attack, which claimed the lives of 26 people and injured many. The Union Home Minister said that the Narendra Modi government was resolved to retaliate against any attack on Indian citizens. "Proud of our armed forces. Operation Sindoor is Bharat's response to the brutal killing of our innocent brothers in Pahalgam. The Modi government is resolved to give a befitting response to any attack on India and its people. Bharat remains firmly committed to eradicating terrorism from its roots," Shah posed on X. Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) praised the Indian Army for carrying out Operation Sindoor, initiating precision strikes aimed at the terror infrastructure in Pakistan. "Proud of our Armed Forces. Jai Hind!" Gandhi posted on X. Congress leader Pawan Khera said, "We are proud of our Army. If someone threatens Indian citizens, they will meet the same fate. Our Army has proven that again. On the night of April 22, we (Congress) said that we would stand with the government. If someone threatens India, we will support what the government decides. The country stands united." Congress chief and Rajya Sabha LoP Mallikarjun Kharge also applauded the accomplishment of the Indian armed forces during Operation Sindoor, saying that national unity and solidarity were the need of the hour. He said that the Congress has stood with the decisions of the armed forces and the government since the ghastly Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 people. "Since the day of the Pahalgam Terror Attack, the Indian National Congress has categorically stood with the Armed Forces and the Government to take any decisive action against cross border terror. National Unity and solidarity are the need of the hour, and the Indian National Congress stands with our Armed Forces. Our leaders have shown the path in past, and National Interest is supreme for us," Kharge posted on X. India has carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
India's successful Operation Sindoor which targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan has brought a sense of justice to the families of the victims of the Pahalgam Terror attack. The father of one of the victims, Bharat Bhushan praised the government for taking timely action against terror elements operating in Pakistan. "We are thinking of this, but after bringing the body of my son, we thought that Modi will take some definite steps to control these terrorist attacks, and definitely the Government of India has done it," said Channaveerappa, father of Pahalgam terror attack victim Bharat Bhushan, while reacting to the developments under Operation Sindoor. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had arranged meetings with the Army, Air Force and Navy and had taken good decisions. "Yesterday night they attacked the nine terrorist camps in Pakistan, and killed many people there, and I heard that there are about 100 people died in this attack, mostly terrorists," he added. "They are trained well there, and they are doing all this," he said, referring to terrorist training in Pakistan. "And even border areas between India and Pakistan, our Army is alert and doing good thing, controlling terrorists." When asked about justice, he said, "Being a father... do you think justice sought through this sir? Definitely, some 50% justice is okay, but real thing is, some more of these terrorists are escaping, and their hideouts are also not find out till now, so we have to find out the hideouts of the terrorists, and also we have to kill those who escaped from their hideouts." Calling for continued operations, he added, "They have to take up more attacks, so that Pakistan must learn a lesson, they have to stop training terrorists there." "Operation Sindoor" targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir and was in direct response to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen and injured several others. (ANI)
Praising the 'Operation Sindoor' which targeted nine anti-Indian terror infrastructures in Pakistan, in response to the Pahalgam attack, Congress leader and former Punjab minister, Raj Kumar Verka reiterated his party's support to the armed forces. Speaking to ANI, Verka emphasised that the whole world has praised India's action. "Congress stands with the country and its army. Yesterday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi encouraged all party members to stand with Indian and the Indian Army. In need of any help, we'll support them, encourage them. This step, which the Indian Government has taken, has been praised by the whole world," Raj Verka said. The Congress leader also demanded that Pakistan should be declared a "terrorist state". "All countries should come together and declare Pakistan a terrorist state. Nobody supports Pakistan, and the whole world condemns it. Even if war happens, the people of this nation are ready to fight"," he said. Further, slamming Pakistan for sponsoring terrorism, Raj Kumar Verka said that the neighbouring country plans against India. "Woh geedad bhabhkiyaan hain, who kya attack karenge (They're empty threats, what will they attack?)?" he remarked, further adding, "Pakistan has been performing little mischiefs since the beginning, and we've been tolerating it. Pakistan plans against India and sends weapons, terrorists, and drugs here. But, it is time to avenge. Indian Army and its people won't step back now, and Congress will continue to stand by the Indians," he said. The Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation called Operation Sindoor, destroying four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), sources told ANI. The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force jointly carried out the operation, mobilising assets and troops. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. "Operation Sindoor," which targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, was India's direct response to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen and injured several others. (ANI)
Following the Indian Armed Forces' fitting reply to Pakistan during 'Operation Sindoor', Rajesh Narwal, father of Indian Navy Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, who was killed in the April 22 terror attack, hailed the operation, calling it a decisive step that will serve as a lasting deterrent to terrorists. Speaking on the strike by the Indian Armed Forces in the early hours of Wednesday, where the forces destroyed nine anti-India terror infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Narwal expressed confidence in the government's actions, stating that the airstrikes targeting the terrorist sites will ensure justice for the 26 victims of the attack. "When this happened, you came home and asked me this question: 'what do you want from the government?' and I gave you an answer that I fully trust the Indian government and it is doing its job... And today the Indian government has done that work," Rajesh Narwal said. He commended the government's resolve, adding, "The Govt of India has taken the right step... This strike will always resonate in their minds and they will think a hundred times before doing such a thing in the future." Narwal further praised the naming of the operation, noting its significance for the families of the victims. "This Operation was named aptly. With this action, all 26 families will get justice," he added. Navy Lieutenant Vinay Narwal was one of the casualties of the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22. A native of Karnal, Haryana, Narwal had recently tied the knot, with his wedding reception held just days before the attack on April 16. Lt Narwal, who was posted in Kochi, had travelled to Jammu and Kashmir on leave and was in Pahalgam with his wife when terrorists opened fire. Earlier, the Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation called Operation Sindoor, destroying four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was constantly monitoring Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. According to CNN, this was India's deepest strike inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. (ANI)
Congress leader Rashid Alvi on Wednesday raised questions on Operation Sindoor by asking if every terrorist had been killed in the operation. He stated that if this has happened then it's "good". Alvi emphasised that whatever the Indian government had asked the Army they did it. "Much better reply needs to be given, this is bare minimum. Our forces did what govt of India told them to do, but the question again arises. Was every single terrorist killed? Will there won't be another Pahalgam? PM Modi had said that the remaining land of terrorists will be destroyed...if that has happened, then it is good", Rashid Alvi told ANI. Alvi's statement are divergent from the tone of the statements issued by the Congress top brass including Party President Mallikarjun Kharge who lauded the Indian Armed forces for the action. "India has an unflinching National Policy against all forms of terrorism emanating from Pakistan and PoK. We are extremely proud of our Indian Armed Forces who have stuck terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. We applaud their resolute resolve and courage. Since the day of the Pahalgam Terror Attack, the Indian National Congress has categorically stood with the Armed Forces and the Government to take any decisive action against cross border terror. National Unity and solidarity is the need of the hour and the Indian National Congress stands with our Armed Forces. Our leaders have shown the path in past, and National Interest is supreme for us," Kharge said. The Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation called Operation Sindoor, destroying four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), sources told ANI. The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force jointly carried out the operation, mobilising assets and troops. Prime Minister Narendra Modi constantly monitored Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The strikes on all nine targets were successful, sources further revealed. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. (ANI)
Hours after India attacked terrorist sites in Pakistan in retaliation against the Pahalgam terror attack, Chief Minister MK Stalin said that Tamil Nadu stands with the Indian Army against terrorism. "Tamil Nadu stands with the Indian Army against terrorism. With our Army, for our nation. Tamil Nadu stands resolute," Stalin said in a post on X. https://x.com/mkstalin/status/1919952501911986442 Earlier in the day, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy said he stands firmly with the armed forces, following the strikes on terror facilities in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). "As an Indian citizen first, standing strongly with our armed forces. The strikes against terror factories in Pakistan & PoK make us proud. Let us make this a moment for national solidarity and unity, and all of us speak in one voice - Jai Hind!" he posted on X. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that "the world must show zero tolerance for terrorism." In a post shared on X, Jaishankar stated, "The world must show zero tolerance for terrorism. Operation Sindoor." "Operation Sindoor" targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir and was in direct response to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen and injured several others. AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has welcomed 'Operation Sindoor' that targeted terrorist sites deep inside Pakistan, emphasizing that the Pakistani deep state must be taught a "tough lesson" so that another Pahalgam never happens again. "I welcome the surgical strikes carried out by our defence forces on terror camps in Pakistan. The Pakistani deep state must be taught a tough lesson so that another Pahalgam never happens again," the Hyderabad MP said in a post on X. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. Indian Armed Forces successfully struck nine terror targets, four in Pakistan, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), using special precision munitions in a coordinated operation, sources told ANI. The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with the mobilisation of assets and troops. (ANI)
BJP President Jagat Prakash Nadda on Tuesday shared a firm message on India's approach to terrorism, referring to "Operation Sindoor." In a tweet, Nadda wrote, "India's message on Pahalgam - If you provoke us, we won't back down," and highlighted Prime Minister Modi's words, "Those attacking India's soul will face severe punishment." He added that India is both capable and determined to root out terrorism. BJP President Jagat Prakash Nadda, in his tweet, reiterated India's firm stand against terrorism. Referring to "Operation Sindoor," he highlighted Prime Minister Modi's message that those attacking India will face severe punishment. Nadda emphasized the country's resolve to eliminate terrorism and safeguard its sovereignty. On Wednesday morning, the Indian Armed Forced launched strikes on nine locations inside Pakistan Occupied Kashmir and Pakistan. These included Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot, and five in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), sources told ANI. The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force jointly carried out the operation, mobilising assets and troops. The strikes on all nine targets were successful. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. "Operation Sindoor," which targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.India's Ministry of Defence was in direct response to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen and injured several others. According to the Defence Ministry, these strikes were carried out in response to the "barbaric" terrorist attack in Pahalgam, where 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen were killed. The government said it is committed to holding those responsible accountable. Precision strike weapon systems from all three services, including loitering munitions, were used in the attacks. The coordinates were provided by intelligence agencies, and the strikes were launched entirely from Indian soil. India carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971 successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said, "The world must show zero tolerance for terrorism." In a post shared on X, Jaishankar stated, "The world must show zero tolerance for terrorism. #OperationSindoor." (ANI)
Congress leader and Karnataka Deputy CM, DK Shivakumar, on Wednesday applauded Indian Armed Forces' Operation Sindoor which struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). The Congress leader also called the operation as "a befitting reply" to Pahalgam attack. In a post on X, Shivakumar wrote, "#OperationSindoor is a befitting reply to the cowardly Pahalgam terror attack. We stand with the govt, we stand with our security forces. Jai Hind." Earlier, in an X post, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge mentioned India's "unflinching" national policy against terrorism and praised the armed forces' efforts. Kharge's X post read, "India has an unflinching National Policy against all forms of terrorism emanating from Pakistan and PoK. We are extremely proud of our Indian Armed Forces who have stuck terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. We applaud their resolute resolve and courage. Since the day of the Pahalgam Terror Attack, the Indian National Congress has categorically stood with the Armed Forces and the Government to take any decisive action against cross border terror. National Unity and solidarity is the need of the hour and the Indian National Congress stands with our Armed Forces. Our leaders have shown the path in past, and National Interest is supreme for us." India carried out its deepest strikes inside Pakistan's undisputed territory since 1971, according to CNN, successfully targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This marks New Delhi's most significant military action within Pakistani territory in over five decades. The strikes were carried out to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack victims and to eliminate Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in planning and executing terrorist attacks in India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi constantly monitored Operation Sindoor throughout the night, sources confirmed to ANI. The Indian forces selected the locations to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders involved in sponsoring terrorist activities in India. (ANI)